Dear Lupe Fiasco: 10 Tips To Make Lasers Successful

For those keeping score, Lupe Fiasco lashed out at MTV a few days ago via Twitter over this and, even though I'm biased towards Lupe, I have to admit that some of these suggestions aren't bad. What do y'all think?

1. Keep recording songs for Lasers

We've heard that you submitted a completed version of Lasers to Atlantic months ago. That's all well and good, but there's a good chance your whole experience with trying to get your album out would make for a good song or two. So don't assume that what you submitted is what's going to hit store shelves. Keep recording and give fans the freshest material you've got when the album finally does drop.

2. Call Kanye West, like, NOW

In case you haven't noticed, 'Ye is about to be busy. Real busy. With his new album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, dropping next month, he's gonna be on every TV station, radio channel and Web site soon. Before he is, put the bug in his ear that you're looking for a contribution for Lasers. If that doesn't get Atlantic excited about putting your project out, we don't know what will.

3. Drop a mixtape. Immediately.

Last year's Enemy of the State mixtape was dope. Only problem? It was like 20 minutes long. So, um, no offense, Lupe, but 20 minutes isn't enough to hold today's ran fans over for a day—let alone 10 months. Get some new music out and get it out right away.

4. Stop participating in supergroups

Child Rebel Soldier (a group comprised of Lupe, Pharrell and Kanye) and All-City Chess Club (boasting Lupe, B.o.B, Asher Roth and more) both sound like cool projects. But, yo: It's taken you three years to get Atlantic to release your next solo album. Do you really think Atlantic—or any other record label, for that matter—is going to put out an album by either of those two supergroups anytime soon? Yeah, we don't think so. So stay focused on your solo career. At least, for now.

5. Repair your image on the rap blogs

We're not sure if you know this or not, but most of the rap blogs seem to hate you. You don't seem to care, which is cool, but in today's hip-hop culture, you need the blogs to love you (or, at the very least, to blog about you!) in order to be successful. That's just the way it is. If you can't stand a particular blogger, you don't have to cater to him or her. But find a couple you do like and serve them up some fresh material. (P.S. If you want RapFix to do it, just say the word!)

6. Embrace your leaked records

No rapper wants their new songs leaked onto the Internet. It'd be crazy to try and convince you or any other rapper to be happy about it. But if it happens, it happens. Rather than throwing dirt on your own songs or chastising the world when a record leaks, accept it and move on. That's what we call free publicity, sir.

7. Be open to trying everything to land on a hit single

You passed over on B.o.B's "Nothin' On You." Cool, you weren't feeling it. But be open to doing whatever you can to find a hit that'll propel your album into the next stratosphere. That doesn't mean you have to sell yourself out or work with someone you don't want to. But if you're not gonna do that, think outside the box to land on a single that'll make you proud.

8. Take cues from your labelmate B.o.B.

Speaking of B.o.B, look no further than B.o.B Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray to hear how you can make the album you want to and keep your label happy. B.o.B might have a few songs on there that you wouldn't necessarily record, but it's safe to say he's also got plenty of songs on there that he truly wanted to release to the world. Use that as your blueprint.

9. Appreciate your old fans—but try to find some new ones

You have a diesel fan base. Kids were willing to sign a petition and even take time out of their busy lives to come and protest on your behalf. You need to keep them around. But you also need to branch out and realize that not everyone is happy with the way you've handled your label politics. Do whatever it takes to get them back on your side through your music.

10. Keep rapping your ass off

Good music trumps everything. So whether you drop a mixtape tomorrow or start recording a couple freestyles every week, use your voice to give yourself a voice in the hip-hop community. If you do that, Lasers will shine brightly.

[Source: Rapfix/MTV.com]

"Runaway" | A Film by KanYe West

KanYe West premiered his short film "Runaway" earlier tonight and I think it's pretty safe to say that this man is a genius. No other artist has this much ingenuity (let alone creativity) to be able to encompass such a beautiful array of art on film and, in my opinion, I think this only heightens the anticipation/interest in "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy".

Melyssa Ford Covers KING Magazine's Winter Issue

I usually don't agree for the sake of argument, but I find it hard to disagree here with KING magazine's proclamation of Melyssa Ford as "The Legend".

Without question she's had one of the more prominent careers for a video girl and, arguably, she helped pave the way for some of these other video girls who have since made a name for themselves.

My only gripe, however, has to do with KING magazine itself. I understand that it's hard for newspapers/magazines to sell nowadays; but, I for one, am not feeling this "Women of KING" format.

I absolutely hate it if I'm being honest and a return to the old format is long overdue. Whether that will ever happen remains to be seen, but it's not like I don't appreciate a Melyssa Ford cover! I'd take that any day and, trust me, once you see some of these pictures (click here) you'll understand why.

Now, if only KING would smarten up and do a spread with Montana DeLeon...

[Click here for a Royal Peek of KING's upcoming Winter issue]

Doritos Ad Campaign (Featuring Rihanna)

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As if her signing with Roc Nation management earlier this week wasn't news enough, Rihanna now has an endorsement partnership with Doritos. A weird union I'll admit; but is it just me, or does Rihanna just find ways to reinvent herself with every album.

Her last CD, "Rated R", showcased her as this edgy, take no shit rocker; and with her upcoming offering, "Loud", I'm assuming it will be more dance/uptempo. Either way, it only personifies the fact that Rihanna has no identity as an artist and it'll be interesting to see which direction Roc Nation management will guide her towards next.

In the meantime, here are a few of the aforementioned promotional pictures for Rihanna's Doritos ad campaign and, from what I understand, they will coincide with a digitally interactive video for her upcoming single "Who's That Chick". Interesting, huh?

Nicki Minaj's "Pink Friday" Album Cover

It's still hard to believe that Nicki Minaj decided to name her debut album "Pink Friday" (of all things), but I think the cover art for it more than makes up for a lack of creativity.

It's no secret as to how much the "Barbie theme" has been a part of her career, so a part of me halfway expected it to be included in some way, shape, or form on her album. The only question I have, however, is where are her arms?

Other than that, I'm just curious to see how well the album is going to do numbers wise. Both KanYe West and Jay-Z have albums slated to be released that same day and just imagine if Nicki were to somehow manage to outsell them both?

Everything up to this point in her career would be validated and, dare I say, a resurgence in Female Hip-Hop would be born...

Perhaps I'm a little premature in suggesting that but, considering what little competetion Nicki has presently, you would think it wouldn't be a bad thing.

Drake Gives Relationship Advice to Cosmo

I usually don't agree with people's opinions when it comes to the opposite sex, simply because the only one's that will ever have any real validity are your own. That being said, I found it hard to disagree with anything Drake had to say here in the advice that he gave to Cosmo. Nothing was out of the ordinary and, when kept in context, I think Drake represents the male perspective of dating quite well. What do you think?

Cosmopolitan: Is it hard for guys to get over breakups?
Drake: Definitely. Even after a long time, it’s painful to see an ex with somebody else. As happy as you are that she’s happy, there’s a little tingle underneath your heart. It’s not a sting. But it hurts a bit, and you wish it wasn’t there.

C: Is sex on a first date a deal breaker?
D: No, I don’t get why women think that. You’re telling yourself that all you have to offer is your body and the physical act. There’s more to you than that. If I like somebody, there’s so many great things to look forward to, even if we do it on the first night.

C: If a woman is into a guy, how should she get his attention?
D: I’m shy, so I like when she comes up and says “Hey, how are you doing?” That lets me know she wants to talk. The scariest thing is when you look at a woman and think of a million reasons why she wouldn’t want to.

C: What’s the best compliment a woman can give a guy?
D: I never mind hearing “You look nice tonight.” Guys put in a lot of silent effort. When I’m going on a date, I’m getting a haircut, I’ve got a new outfit, and I’m wearing cologne. So it’s nice when it’s noticed.

C: What’s the secret to a happy relationship?
D: Acceptance. You’ve got to be comfortable enough to be completely naked with lights on and the curtains open.

[Source: All Things Fresh/Concrete Loop]

Lloyd Banks & Juelz Santana Play Def Jam Rapstar

I'm usually not into the Guitar Hero/Rock Band video game format, but Def Jam Rapstar is something that definitely caught my interest. Yes, I'm well aware that it's nothing more than Hip-Hop karaoke; but I still wanna play it. I just don't want to pay the $60 bucks or so in order to do so.

Anyway, here's a video I came across (courtesy of XXL.com) that features Lloyd Banks and Juelz Santana playing Def Jam Rapstar. You would think it would come natural for these guys since they hold a mic in their hand for a living; but something about karaoke just ignites instant laughter. Not to mention, pure, unadulterated fun.

Tahiry's 2011 Calender: The Wet Edition [Video Preview]

Sometimes I wonder why girls like this don't exist in the real world... It's a damn shame if you ask me; but in watching this, I can't help but feel as though the term "wet dream" take on an entirely different meaning. If not, maybe it's just me; but NEVER in my life have I looked this forward to buying a calendar.

¤ Executive Decisions/Results ¤

I interviewed for a supervisor position at the place where I work and I'm a little anxious to find out as to whether I get it or not.

Unfortunately, I won't know anything until tomorrow; but, the way I see it, I've been working there for almost two years now and I'm well ahead of the learning curve as to what all I'm supposed to know as a teller. It's only appropriate to want to take that next step; but to say I'm a little apprehensive in doing so would be an understatement.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not nervous about the position. I'm more than confident that I could handle all of the responsibilities that come along with it. I'm just more so concerned with whether or not I'm ready to.

Working at a bank requires a lot of attention to detail and, as a teller, I've grown comfortable in making sure that I try to stay on top of everything.

So many different procedures are done routinely while others are done rarely if, hardly, at all. The point is, I'd be expected to know these things like clockwork should I get the position and it's nerve racking, in a sense, especially when considering I'm so use to having that next person "higher up" to assist me with the stuff that I don't.

Not to say that I still won't. I'm just saying that I'm the type of person that's resistant to change and I question whether I would even be in this position had things not fallen apart as they have.

Either way I look at it, I consider this a challenge, of sorts, and I plan to embrace it if given the opportunity. If not, at least I know I gave it a valiant effort; and, sometimes, the thought of not knowing "what if" can hurt worse than rejection. For that reason alone was as to why I even decided to throw my name into consideration in the first place and all I can do now is hope for the best and respect whatever decision is made. Here goes nothing, I suppose...

...To Be Continued...

~T.I.~

Jordin Sparks @ the Vikings/Jets Game

As a fan of the New England Patriots, it sickens me to see one of my potential spouses (hey, a guy can dream can't he?) wear the colors of the enemy.

Words can't even begin to describe how much of a slap in the face this is, but it's not like I can be mad. Her and I aren't on speaking terms right now and haven't been for quite some time but, still, it's nice to see her make a public appearance. Albeit at a Jets game, no less.

All jokes aside, Jordin Sparks has been a favorite of mine ever since she won American Idol. Now, I don't remember much from that season but one thing I do remember is how captivated I was in watching Jordin perform.

It was like that every single week, for me, and, justifiably, it remains one of the few seasons that I feel America actually got it right as far as determining a winner (SN: How did Jennifer Hudson not win her season? I'm still scratching my head on that one).

Be that as it may, I'm really looking forward to seeing how far Jordin can go with her career. She already has two successful albums under her belt and, not to mention, one amazing voice.

No other idol winner comes close in that regard so here's to continued success and a better taste in teams perhaps. "Gang Green" really isn't her color and, while I'm at it, neither is Steph Jones. Dude is the definition of a lame and I would be more than happy with putting a ring on it! Hopefully before he ever does...

"What About My Ballsack?"--Axe Commercial

I have to give it to Axe and Old Spice for being creative when it comes to advertising their product but this, right here, has to be one of the more clever of the commercials I've seen. If not, the funniest.

This Ain't Sesame Street XXX

I remember hearing about this a couple weeks back and I just knew that Saturday Night Live was going to have a field day with this one.

First things first, I am not a fan of Katy Perry. I think she has no talent whatsoever but, then again, it's no secret, also, that part of my disdain for her has to do with Maxim placing her #1 in their Hot 100.

There are so many other women that deserve that over her but, to Maxim's credit, I can't be mad when a pair of Double D's create this much controversy.

As for the Sesame Street episode (click here to view) that was pulled, I watched it for myself and saw nothing wrong. A little big of cleavage has never hurt anybody and, last I checked, there are far worse things on TV that "some" of these mothers need to be more concerned about.

For instance: CSI, NCIS, & Criminal Minds. All of these shows are graphic in detail but, yet, I'm supposed to believe that Katy Perry's boobs pose that much of a problem? As nice as they are, I don't think so. Whatever disconnect there seems to be here is something that needs to be addressed; but, thankfully for SNL, they know exactly how to lighten the mood.

I just find it funny that none of the Dad's took offense to this. Just goes to show how simple men really are, I suppose.

Kim Kardashian Poses Nude For W Magazine

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I find it hard to believe that Kim Kardashian regrets doing Playboy when she turns right around and poses nude for, yet, another magazine. Nudity is nudity regardless of if its in the name of art; but my question is, shouldn't doing a porno be more damaging to the Kardashian name as a brand?

It's no secret that the porno she did with Ray J and the spread in Playboy came long before the success she's having now but, personally, I feel to dismiss those things as regrets would be a mistake. Both helped her be the sex symbol/icon that she is today so I'm not buying any of this bullshit she says. Everything she does is calculated down to the smallest of detail and I will always hold that to be true.

As for this latest spread of hers in W magazine, I have to say that I find it to be more natural than the one she did for Playboy. None of those pictures showed off that voluptuous shape of hers that she's known for and, keeping it in the sense of art, I think this will be one of those calculated risks of hers that will pay dividends once more people react to it.

At least, one could only imagine.

Behold, The Avatar Fleshlight!

I wasn't one of the one's that bought into all this Avatar "hype" but, you gotta admit, this is pretty funny. Hell, the whole concept of a Fleshlight, in general, is funny if you think about it; but I can't help but imagine how the saying "close encounters of the third kind" takes on more of a literal meaning now.

But let's be serious for a minute. How ingenious is this idea? It makes perfect sense for Fleshlight to jump all over this and I'm sure fanboys alike will enjoy this in more ways than one.

I mean, for heavens sake, it has two clits! If that's not any reason enough to buy it, then I don't know what is.

All I know is that its inception came about in conjunction with the release of "This Ain't Avatar XXX" and if you haven't seen the trailer for it (click here to view), I highly suggest you do. A lot of these porn parodies are going mainstream nowadays and, who knows, maybe this version will be a lot better than that God awful one that was directed by James Cameron.

Last I checked, a friend of mine still hasn't finished watching it and I think that says a lot for Avatar. Not only was the film boring, but it was overrated if you ask me. All of its "hype" seemed manufactured by the studio and if you strip away the 3-D aspect of it, you're left with nothing more than a film about politics. Just done so in a much glossier way.

At least this version is guaranteed to reach its climax long before the original. And, if you're interested, maybe in more ways than one. No need to be ashamed. I just don't recommend masturbation in 3-D. Something tells me that could be a little dangerous. You don't want to get a little too excited and have things "cumming" right at you, literally. I'm just saying...

For more details on the Avatar (or Alien) Fleshlight, click here.

Diana Taurasi Covers ESPN The Magazine's Body Issue

I don't think I've ever seen Diana Taurasi look this gorgeous and that's saying a lot, considering she's a WNBA player. The knock for most of them is that skill comes before appearance but, last I checked, they're still women at the end of the day and it's refreshing to see how some of them can look off the court. Especially Diana Taurasi.

Truthfully speaking, I've kind of always had a thing for her ever since she was at UConn. But, then, Candace Parker came about and I kind of just lost sight of all that. Call it what you want but I'm attracted to what I'm attracted to and you really can't go wrong with either one if you ask me.

Anyway, ESPN does a great job with their Body issue so I'm really looking forward to see what other athletes will decide to take it all off for the camera. Last year, the highlight for me was Serena Williams; so, hopefully, Candace Parker will come around and decide to follow in her footsteps one day. It's the least she could do considering she's either always hurt or pregnant.

In the meantime, however, this year's Body issue includes athletes such as: Amar'e Stoudemire, Tim Howard, and the USA Women's Water Polo Team. Be sure to look for it when it hits newsstands but, if you're like me and can't wait, I've included a video that entails a behind the scenes look of this year's Body issue being put together. Courtesy, of course, of ESPN.com

Drake Speaks On Working With 9th Wonder

Sheneka Adams in Sweets Magazine

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I read somewhere that Sheneka Adams had a sex tape with Soulja Boy (of all people) that leaked a while back; but, even if that's true, it kind of makes you wonder how a guy in his right mind could ever have sex with someone this fine and, yet, let them go? It just doesn't make sense; but, then again, Soulja Boy has been "kickin' it", so to speak, with Kat Stacks and as to how that union came about is beyond me. All I know is that Kat Stacks and rappers (let alone entertainers period), nowadays, is NOT a good look; but, like I said, this is Soulja Boy we're talking about and wasn't he the same one that Kat Stacks went ahead and exposed him for his cocaine usage? I believe so. It just goes to show that Rick James said it best, "cocaine is a helluva drug".

Anyway, I got my first glimpse of Sheneka Adams after seeing her in the latest issue of KING magazine. The "supposed" video (or, sex tape if you will) is available on the net for those who care but I, for one, wouldn't waste my time. It's only a snippet of her giving head and then it cuts off 30 seconds or so into it. In the meantime, here are a couple of pics from a spread she did for Sweets magazine. Enjoy!

Travis Porter | Make It Rain [Viral Video]

¤ 10.10.10 ¤

I find it hard to find solidarity in much of anything anymore, let alone relationships. Whether it be with friends, family, "potential significant others", you name it...everything I touch seems to fall apart and, for once, I just want things to fall into place.

Is that too much to ask? I suppose not but, trust me, the answer to that was purely rhetorical. I just figured asking would only be fair (considering you're taking the time to read all of this) and what better way to involve you, as the reader, than to ask such an open ended question.

You're welcome, nonetheless, but that's beside the point. Everyone feels this way at one time or another, but it just feels like I've had more than my fair share of disappointment. Undeserved disappointment at that, but disappointment is disappointment no matter which way you try to sugarcoat it and I suppose that's part of my problem. I try to fit everything into this proverbial realm of organized structure and the more you try to make sense of things, the more things will never make sense. It's life at its finest. Even more so, it's irony at its ugliest. But my question is, why can't there ever be an in between?

Truth be told, I've never bought into this whole "glass half full" aspect that people will try to sell you when the chips are down. It's all bullshit if you ask me, but to each their own. Instead, I'm more of "glass half empty" kind of guy. I've never been able to understand as to why but, if i had to say, it would be because I tend to put more of an emphasis on what I don't have, rather than what I do. Not the most glaring attribute to have, I know, but, trust me, it will all make sense in a little bit so just continue reading.

It's not that I don't appreciate what I have. In fact, I'm one of the most appreciative people you'll ever meet. All the little things mean the world to me, but I see nothing wrong with wanting more. Nothing wrong with wanting what the next man has, or with wanting all the things that seem to only exist in your dreams. Besides, the way I see it, those things can only become a reality if you want them bad enough and, subliminally speaking, there's nothing more that I've ever wanted than (... ... ....)

Pardon the tease, but I reserve the right to stand pat in withholding my one, true desire. Dreams, in my opinion, can be very fragile in a sense and the last thing I would ever want to do is compromise that. Just know that there's one thing that keeps me going in life and the closer I am to that...that's when I'm at my most happiest. When I'm not...I feel like I feel now and it's one of the most gut-wrenching feelings in the world.

...And to think, the irony in all this is that I now have to sit here and watch another man, no less, take solace in the same very thing that brings me joy. Life surely does imitate art I tell ya'; but something about this just has tragedy written all over it. It just remains to be seen...

~T.I.~

The Town (2010)

There used to be a time where it seemed like Ben Affleck couldn't catch a break in Hollywood, but fast forward years later and it's almost as if he took the scenic route towards respectability.

Taking a page out of Clint Eastwood's playbook, Affleck went behind the camera for 2007's "Gone Baby Gone" and not only garnered praise for his directorial debut but, in the process, proved that he had more to offer than we had thought.

But let's be honest. At the end of the day it was still Ben Affleck and people were going to have an opinion one way or another; but with "The Town", Affleck proves definitively that he's a force to be reckoned with and what he delivers here on screen is damn near cinematic gold.

Quite the compliment considering this is only the second film he's directed, but Affleck just has a knack for surrounding himself with the right material/actors and that's what makes "The Town" so unique. Not enough can be said about the performances here as they are key in this film; and as much of it is Affleck as a director to capture that, he does it with such ease that it really brings out the best in everybody involved.

The same can be said for the film's story. Not only is it as gripping as say "The Departed", but its sharp attention to detail and its gritty portrayal of the conflict between these cops and robbers (so to speak) will, surely, grip the viewer all the way through until the bloody end.

Without giving anything away, "The Town" is one of those films you just have to see for yourself. But, to be fair, no movie is perfect. The 123 minutes of running time made the film overly long, but not so much that it felt as if a frame of that was wasted. Every second is essential in its own, unique way and, in the end, "The Town" makes for quite the stay. If not, for one of the better movies of 2010.

Rating: 4 ½ inkblots out of 5

Nicki Minaj × Complex

Nicki Minaj is the Black Lady Gaga.

¤ Little Miss Sunshine Pt. 2 ¤

Have you ever had one of those "every song on the radio is about her" kind of moments that make you stop and think about what you once had, yet somehow let slip through your fingers? Well, that's exactly how I feel right about now and this quote is the only thing I [seemingly] have left to hold on to.

"The one will pursue you, not make you prove your worth to them"

An inconvenient truth for me, I'll admit, simply because I feel as though a majority of the blame rests on my shoulders. Still, you can only make excuses for yourself for so long. After a while the truth will eventually start to sink in and it didn't hit me until a year or so ago when she and I had met for the first time (in person) in almost a year.

What can I say? She was as beautiful as I had remembered and just to see her standing there was enough for me to remember the way things used to be. To say those were happier times would be an understatement but the thing I find interesting is how perfectly blind we become when it comes to matters of love. No, I'm not saying that we were in love with one another; (technically we never formally dated to be completely honest) but what I will say is that a missed opportunity can resonate deeper than some of us will ever know.

God broke the mold when he made her and, admittedly, I've never lost sight of that. Besides, for someone as beautiful as her to be a part of my life is more than I could ever imagine and, truthfully speaking, she was the girl of my dreams. The only difference was, she was real.

Why I didn't realize it then was a mistake on my part and the last thing I should've done was to allow her to walk away. Do I regret it? Yes, in hindsight it was a bad decision, especially when considering these feelings that I continue to still have; but it allowed me to learn to take advantage of what I have while it's right there in front of me because a good woman, truly, comes a dime a dozen.

Be that as it may, I guess I just want her to know that the love and support that I have for her will always be unconditional. She'll always be someone I care for and, (*name removed*), I mean that with all my heart and to the depths of my soul.

-T.I.-

Trey Songz | Passion, Pain & Pleasure

Trey Songz has to be one of the more intriguing artists when it comes to Male R&B. Not because he's only now just getting his just due, but more so because NONE of his albums have ever gone platinum.

Albeit his last effort, "Ready", was perfectly fine tuned for the radio, its moderate success on the Billboard charts would suggest a star that's still not ready to take that next step and it makes you wonder as to why the release of another album would be this rushed.

Which is a shame. It's never been a matter of talent when it comes to Trey because, clearly, his growth from album to album can be heard in his vocals. "Ready", by far, has been his most complete album to date and now more than ever, Trey Songz has become a household name.

But is that any reason enough to try and "strike while the iron is hot" so to speak. I say no and so does "Passion, Pain & Pleasure" as an album.

First thing's first, "Passion, Pain & Pleasure" is unlike anything Trey Songz has ever done. Gone is that perfect balance he's had on his last few albums and, instead, it's as if he stripped away everything except "sex". Don't get me wrong, I understand by the title of the album as to what it's supposed to be about; but to make a whole album about all the emotions that come along with "sex" shows a sign of immaturity if you ask me.

I've never been much of a fan of this TV show/album set up that BET has had a hand in, as well, but a critic will be a critic, I suppose, and the point I'm trying to make is that more could've been done with this album had Trey taken his time. Take, for instance, the set up.

The alcohol induced "Bottoms Up" featuring Nicki Minaj was the perfect choice to go with as the lead single but, sadly, nothing much else comes close to it on the album. Not even the Drake assisted "Unusual". The only thing of note are a few power ballads here and there ("Love Faces", "Can't Be Friends", "Please Return My Call", and "Made To Be Together"), but there are points on the album where the subject matter becomes repetitive and that's saying a lot coming from a Trey Songz album.

Those bright spots aside, this album will not do anything to help Trey progress as an artist. Weak subject matter and a poorly put together concept waters down "Passion, Pain & Pleasure" and only true fans of Trey will appreciate what he has to say here. Not that that's a bad thing; but for it to be his moment (as his television show on BET would suggest), he shies away from the limelight and, instead, fades into the background.

Rating: 6.0 headphones out of 10

¤ Sweet Äs Ðêvil's FððÐ: The Forbidden Fruit Chronicles Pt. 1 ¤

Having a crush on someone you know you can't have has to be one of the worst feelings in world. Trust me, I know. But it's not like working with them makes it any easier...

Therein lies the catch-22 I'm faced with and it seems like I really have no other place to turn to for answers. Besides, every scenario that plays out in my head seems to end the same way and the last thing I would want to do is create an uncomfortable situation (for the both of us) should she not have the same feelings as I do.

Which she probably doesn't knowing my luck but, still, I've learned quite a few lessons from past experiences and to say that I'm a little reserved when it comes to matters of the heart towards co-workers would be an understatement.

It's bad enough these same problems are carrying over to where I work now but the one thing about love is, you can't help who you like. Especially in my case. When I fall, I usually fall hard and, before I know it, it becomes one of those "here we go again" type deals.

But something about this seems different. Forbidden almost in the sense that I want what I know I can't have.

Next to rejection, it's one of the worst feelings in the world and it's not so much the "wanting" that makes it so bad; it's the "wondering". It's all the "what if" and constant back and forth that you exchange with that person that makes you want them even more. The only question is, are the risks greater than the reward?

It puts you in a position to play devil's advocate when you really think about it because, either way you decide to play it, nobody wins when it comes to interoffice romances. The two of you could never really enjoy it (unless you have a really strong foundation) without everybody being in your business and, for that reason alone, I guess that's the only thing really holding me back. That and the unbridled fear of rejection that I tend to have when it comes to things of this nature.

But still I stand here at a fork in the road; questioning whether I should (or shouldn't) indulge in something as sweet as the devil's food. To do so would bring pleasure momentarily, I suppose, but what about everything else that would come along with it? Am I really ready for that kind of responsibility? Am I really ready to learn how to deal?

Maybe if I play my cards right everything will fall into place on its own but, even then, that would require me to make a deal with the devil...

Here goes nothing, I suppose...

-T.I.-

[Author's Note]
I started writing this some time in January so parts of it are no longer relevant. I just figured it would be a shame to let such a fine piece of literature go to waste. Besides, I really liked the way I tied everything to my "Sweet As Devil's Food" theme. I couldn't word it exactly how I wanted to per say, but I think I was ambiguous enough to get my point across. Don't you?

Guess what? No More Bush! | The Kinky Kim Filthy Love Doll

[Click images for larger view]

Kim Kardashian is in an uproar over this but, really, I can't understand why. Other celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Snooki (of all people) have had a sex doll made in their likeness; so, in a way, you can almost consider it a compliment. Besides, isn't imitation the sincerest form of flattery?

Apparently not, but the resemblance is quite canny if you ask me. But my thing is, how can someone like Kim be upset when we've already seen her naked? She's the one that CHOSE to pose for Playboy and wasn't she the same one that swapped "love juices" with Ray J.? My point exactly.

Nicki Minaj Covers OUT Magazine

Nicki Minaj is an enigma. There's no other way to put it, in my opinion, but, still, I'm curious to see how/if any of this will pay off come 11.23.10

That's the day her long-awaited debut album, "Pink Friday", is slated to hit the shelves and to say that the future of women in Hip-Hop is depending on Nicki's success is an understatement.

Besides, the way I see it is that if someone with as much buzz as Nicki can't sell records; then what are the chances that another up-and-coming female M.C. ever will? The closest thing we have to a dominant, female M.C. is Trina, but even she had to turn pop in order to sell.

Which explains why Nicki has toned down all her sexual innuendo/metaphors. Sure, sex always sells hands down; but Nicki is an incredibly dope artist when she wants to be (listen to her verse on "Monster" if you don't believe me) and I just have the feeling that "Pink Friday" will be one hell of a piece of work. Especially with Young Money being behind the project all the way.

In the meantime, Nicki is featured on the cover of this month's OUT Magazine. Do yourself a favor and go pick up a copy when it hits newsstands later this month.

[Click here to view additional pics from the photo shoot]

KiD CuDi × Complex

In my opinion, KiD CuDi is one of the dopest up-and-coming M.C.'s and the last thing Hip-Hop needs is a beef between him and Wale. Truthfully speaking, Hip-Hop has never been as unified as it is now and to just see these two ignite beef over something as small as a verbal jab is just nonsense. Besides, what Wale said in his "Thank You" freestyle was nothing to take offense to; but somehow or another, KiD CuDi lived up to his alias of Mr. Rager and took offense to it and is really talking reckless with some of the excerpts I read from this upcoming issue of Complex Magazine. Needless to say, Wale responded moments after this hit the internet (via twitter) and I guess a war of words have been set in motion. Where things go from here is beyond me but, personally, I say they just squash all this and, instead, focus on making "G.O.O.D" music. Pun intended.

On a brighter note, "Man On The Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager" is set to hit stores this November.

Why Porn Stars Shouldn't Be Rappers [The Pinky Edition]

I'm not going to sit here and pretend like I've never watched a porno before, but is it just me or is there a lot of porn stars that are trying to be rappers all of a sudden? First Brian Pumper and now Pinky?!?! Be that as it may, I'm more of a fan of what Pinky does in the bedroom rather than what she's doing here, but I just felt like I had to post this because it's really not all that bad. Seriously. The only thing that would've make this video even better is if she was naked the whole time. Misogynistic I know but, chances are, you were thinking the same thing. I just had the balls to say it.

[UPDATE]: Looks like my prayers have been answered. Click here to view. NSFW.

Devil (2010)

Whatever magic M. Night Shyamalan used to capture "The Sixth Sense" seems lost almost as, nowadays, his films are met with more precarity than curiosity. Sure, "Unbreakable" was unique enough to stand on its own; but it's no secret as to why "Signs", "The Village", "Lady in the Water", and the God awful train wreck that was "The Happening" has made a lot of people question whether Shyamalan will ever be anything more than just a "one-trick pony".

Which is sad when you really think about it. For a person to be as talented as he is, the ugly stigma that's been given to him is the "Shyamalan twist" and it's damn near impossible to ignore whenever you watch one of his movies. You're always going to question when that ONE moment is going to come (a' la "The Sixth Sense") but, with "Devil", that moment never does. And, for that, I think it's a sign towards a step in the right direction. Either that, or redemption.

Nevertheless, it's not to say that this film doesn't have its fair share of twists and turns. Shyamalan's unique take on the supernatural is something I've marveled at for quite some time now and I think it's the one thing that keeps people interested in his films. No other filmmaker is as masterful when it comes to this particular brand of art and this is why "Devil" works in so many ways.

For instance, take the simple premise of five strangers being trapped in an elevator. The emotional weight of the film is dependent upon the audience to be intrigued as to which of the characters is more than they appear to be and, indeed, this is done as elegantly as it possibly could. Every word and/or action by each character can easily be looked at with an ulterior motive and, up until the final reveal, the action both inside and out of the elevator is crafted well enough to tie the story all together.

The only question, however, is will it be enough to pull people in to see it. M. Night's name being attached to any project would bring a lot of skepticism to it (think "The Last Airbender", for example) but the fact that this was NOT directed by Shyamalan should be dually noted. It was only produced by him and I think it was smart on his part to allow someone else to interpret his vision for a change.

Ultimately, "Devil" will not jump start an otherwise stale, horror movie genre; but one thing it will do is help in re-establishing the M. Night Shyamalan brand. This, by far, is his most complete work to date since "Unbreakable" and just like that film, this, too, is nothing more than a good ol' battle between good and evil. Just with a little bit of "faith" thrown in.

Rating: 3 inkblots out of 5

¤ Hip-Hop "Saved" My Life ¤

In a time where capitalism has become an unspoken religion, the pursuit of the almighty dollar is not as elusive as it once was. Self-made entrepreneurs are burgeoning for big business, but none more than those who have a pension for rap.

Yes, even I, too, have had this dream at one time or another but, eventually, reality sinks in past a certain age. Would I love to live the "Hip-Hop lifestyle" for a day? Sure, who wouldn't? But bear in mind that beyond the girls, cars, and clothes lies a naked truth that people rarely get to see. Simply put it's called relevance.

It can never be overstated as to how highly competitive Hip-Hop is as a genre of music; therefore, the lifespan of a rapper can only be compared to that of a running back in the NFL. Plain and simple, a rapper is only as hot as his last hit. The unfortunate thing about it, however, is that the misguided message being sent to our youth would suggest otherwise and therein lies the root of the problem.

Far be it from me, but Hip-Hop just seems overly populated. Everybody wants to rap these days and instead of embracing individuality, too many people sound the same.

Now, I could understand how you admire someone as your favorite rapper, but admiration and emulation are two different things. So many people get the two confused and I think that's why we have a lot of "comparisons" in Hip-Hop. You always hear "this guy sounds like this guy" or "this guy sounds like that guy". Never "this guy sounds different".

It's refreshing almost when you do hear it but even that comes few and far between. Is it a product of complacency? Yes and no, I suppose; but, if you ask me, I think the problem is more with the bullshit music we accept as Hip-Hop.

Gucci Mane, for example, is not Hip-Hop. Even he would tell you that himself. The thing is, he's smart enough to know what's going to sell records and he capitalizes off it. He doesn't try to be something he's not (lyrical), yet the strong following that he has could care less. They absolutely love his watered down music and, admittedly, I guess a part of me does too.

But only in moderation. Real Hip-Hop music has meaning. It has definition. It has soul. Today's music lacks all three of these basic components and I blame that on the 50 Tyson/YouTube generation that we live in. Like it or not, we're all one "Pants on the Ground" hit away from being the next big thing. My only question is, what's going to happen when things eventually fade to black?

To Be Continued...

¤ ATTENTION! Deficit ¤

"Women need attention therefore women will complain
Develop hatred for men and swear that you're the one to blame"--Drake

Women are hard to please...Of course this is something I learned a long time ago but, lately, I'm starting to notice more and more how true this statement really is. Perfect example, take this girl I was talking to recently..

Now, I know I may not be the most attentive person in the world but, sometimes, the expectations women have on men as far as wanting/needing attention are a little unrealistic if you ask me. Especially if things are still at that in between stage.

It makes things awkward almost if things don't work out between the two of you, but I guess it's all about finding that perfect balance. I don't mind showing you attention, but when it becomes obsessive and you feel like you need attention 24/7, then we have a problem.

Nobody needs that much attention and I think that's what's wrong with a lot of relationships nowadays. Don't get me wrong. Communication plays an important part/key to a healthy relationship, but is it possible to have too much of a good thing? That's the question I've been back and forth about as I write this and the answer is a resounding yes. Allow me to explain...

In the 24 years that I've lived, never once have I attracted a woman by showering her with attention. In fact, it's been quite the opposite. Women tend to respond when you treat them like shit and the sad thing is, a lot of 'em like it. How else would you explain a lot of the relationship drama you see on facebook/twitter? It's like clockwork almost with the status updates some of you women post when it comes to problems in your relationships but then, as if it was somehow by magic, things are all patched up by the end of the day. See my point?

This whole "battle of the sexes" is psychological. Nobody really has an advantage and, quite frankly, I, for one, am through in trying to gain the upper hand.

And to think...YOU and I could've been together too...

Brittany Dailey × Estevan Oriol × T.I.T.S

¤ Fireworks ¤

In the grand scheme of things, I suppose this is how I always envisioned my return to the world of blogging. Not a whisper. Not a hint. Not even an over-the-top, "look I'm back" campaign to inform "you" people. Instead, my return is met as quiet as it was when I first started and I, for one, could not be any more pleased to be back doing what I love most. That being, expressing myself through words and space.

Truth be told, it seems like it's been forever since I last poured my heart into something meaningful. Distractions such as school, work, women, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have gotten the best of me but, still, my heart has always been attached to The Faded Ink.

Maybe it has to do with the fact that I helped mold it into something I felt had the potential to be as big/informative as all these other blogs and, at first, I swear the dedication I had to this whole thing was unmatched. I literally poured everything I had into making this the best blog I possibly could but, somewhere along the way, I got sidetracked and began to doubt my abilities as a writer.

For that I blame Troy University. Instead of making me a better writer, it made me question why I even picked up a pen in the first place and that's one of the scariest things to do when it comes to mastering your craft. Besides, they say raw, natural talent is something you can't harvest and, trust me, I learned a long time ago how good of a writer I am and I'll be damned if anybody says different.

But, is that any reason to justify quitting? Yes and no, I suppose. Again, truth be told, I never wanted to walk away from The Faded Ink. I just felt that in order to comply to the standards that were being put on me by Troy University, I had to relinquish the firm grip I had on being opinionated and, in doing so, I also lost a part of me. Not so much a part of me that didn't still have a passion to write but, more so, a part of me that felt compelled to. Everything at that point and time became "work" to me and I've never been that kind of writer. I'm more of a "whatever interests me" type of journalist and Troy University just wasn't having any of that.

So I quit...

Temporarily, of course. I'm debating as to whether I want to go back or not (considering I'm this close to graduating), but a part of me is hesitant because I'm afraid I'll lose and have to find my love for writing all over again. I guess the only thing I can liken it to is the movie "(500) Days of Summer" and for those that have seen it, then I think you can kind of follow as to where I'm going with this. If not, then I understand your confusion, too.

The point is, seasons change. As do emotions and, right now, I'm at a point where I really want to stretch beyond my imagination and grow as a writer. Whether I succeed is ultimately up to me. So as I close, rest assured that The Faded Ink will live on through me. I started this with a purpose and it will continue to live on with meaning. Failure is not an option. Never has been. Never will be.

"This time I'm really going off...fireworks."--Drake

-T.I.-