Natalie Nunn Covers Black Men Magazine

[Click HERE to view more pic of Natalie Nunn in Black Men Magazine]

I hardly ever watch anything on the Oxygen channel, but there's just something about The Bad Girls Club that's addicting. Part of it is all the constant fights and drama but, for me, it's the women. 

There have been quite a few that have caught my eye, but none more than Natalie Nunn. Sure, she may have this well-deserved reputation of being a "hoe"; but I assure you that my interest is nothing more than a pipe dream.

Be that as it may, Natalie Nunn is featured on this month's cover of Black Men Magazine's 40 on 40 Latina issue and I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia, almost, as it brings back memories of the days that I would anticipate magazines like these such as KING.

Not in perverted way either...I simply mean that KING magazine set a standard for featuring women of color and its impact was widely felt throughout the magazine community. So much so that it can clearly be seen in imitation by magazines such as this one.

No other magazine has come close to matching the gold standard of KING and, while I don't mean to go off into a random tangent, it's unfortunate that KING folded largely in part to a failing economy. Yes, I'm quite aware that KING is back on shelves now; but it's just not the same. As much as the magazine was pictures of beautiful women, the textual content tied everything together perfectly and you just don't get that with the new format that KING has evolved into.

But that's a different story for a different day. Natalie Nunn is one of the more infamous cast members of The Bad Girls Club and, with this spread in Black Men magazine, it's quite clear that she's looking to extend her 15 minutes of fame.

Angela Simmons Posed Nude For A PETA Ad?!

I came across this bit of news a week or so ago and it caught me off guard simply because of the fact that it was 1)Angela Simmons and 2)because of who her father is. 

Literally, my first immediate thought was, "I wonder how her father feels about this?!"; but, in all honesty, it really shouldn't matter what he thinks because Angela has grown  up to be a very beautiful, young woman. 

[For more on Angela Simmons 'Nude' PETA ad, click here]

It's her body and, as a woman, she's free to display it as she chooses; but it's not as if she's doing anything overtly sexual. This decision has a purpose behind it and I can completely understand her decision in wanting to be a part of PETA's ad campaign.

The only thing about it though is that it may hurt her "image" in the long run. As a devout christian, many may feel that this decision of Angela's may not have been a good one; but, again, criticism is always going to come with the territory simply because of who she is and where she comes from. I just hope that as positive of a message that these PETA ads intend to portray, that the negative aspects that could come along with this one doesn't affect the young, adolescent girls that look up to her as a role model.

Yelawolf's 'Radioactive' Album Cover

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I'll be the first to admit that I was late on Yelawolf...for whatever reason, I didn't think much of him as an artist and just couldn't see him as one that would stand out; but even I, too, would find it difficult anymore to overlook the talent that this guy has.

His Trunk Muzik mixtape has been in constant rotation on my ipod as of late and I was eagerly anticipating this album of his to be dropping the same day as J. Cole. As is common with a lot of these projects it was pushed back, but something tells me that the anticipation will be well worth the wait.

Led by the Lil' Jon assisted "Hard White (Up In The Club)", Radioactive has all the potential to be an impressive debut; but my only problem, so far, is with this album cover?! It's a bold move for an artist making his debut NOT to have his face on the cover and for, Yelawolf, I think he NEEDS that. Talent alone won't make this guy a success, but I'm sure his A&R team have a plan as to how they are going to market him...I just hope that plan doesn't hurt him in the long run.

Nicki Minaj Covers Cosmo

[For more of Nicki Minaj in Cosmo, click here]

I'm not ashamed to say that I've read a Cosmo magazine before but for that, I would have to blame my friend Jackie. She suggested that I read one a while back (she actually gave me one to read) and I actually did just to see why women love these things so much...

Needless to say I still don't have a clue, but it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But that's beside the point. Nicki Minaj is featured on the latest cover of Cosmo and I found it interesting to note that Nicki is now the second black woman to grace the Cosmo cover in the last 3 years (the other two being Rihanna twice).

Now as astonishing as that is, I think it speaks volumes for Nicki Minaj. Her crossover appeal beyond Hip-Hop has been more than she could have ever imagined, I'm sure, and it's nice to see her create her own niche. 

Truth be told, I've always considered her the "Black Lady Gaga" and that label is starting to stick with all the outfits, personalities, and radio success that she's having; but it'll be interesting to see where she goes from here. Her sophomore album will be instrumental in her future success but the thing I hope doesn't happen is that she focuses so much on appealing to her "pop" audience that she neglects a Hip-Hop audience that has embraced her from the beginning...

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.

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...

Kim Kardashian Poses Nude For W Magazine

[Click images for larger view; Click here to view more pics]

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.

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

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]

Gabrielle Union Covers Essence Magazine

I had to do a double take almost when I pulled this latest issue of Essence magazine out of my mailbox...simply because this looks nothing like the Gabrielle Union I know. Either she's on that same shit Michael Jackson was on or somebody over @ Essence got a little too creative with the photo shop. You tell me.

Either way, Gabrielle Union has always struck me as this actress with all the talent in the world but, for some reason, she never maximizes her potential. All she does are these low budget, BET Blackbuster movies with Morris Chestnut and that kind of thing can get you typecast real quick.

Hopefully she smartens up while she still has the looks to pull it off but, if not, at least we still have people like Taraji P. Henson that are actually stepping out and exploring Hollywood outside of the BET audience.

Usher Covers Uptown Mag's 5th Anniversary Issue

The thing I don't get about Usher is how unfazed he seems to be whenever it comes to super stardom. Any other artist would be subdued by the "flashing lights" of Hollywood and milk it for all it's worth, but Usher seems to have always been humbled by his success more than anything.

Not that it's a bad thing...I applaud him for not getting caught up in his own "hype", but dare I say he's reached the pinnacle of his career?

Here I Stand was sub par when compared to his Confessions album and I blame it on his marriage to Tameka. Everything he went through with her took away his focus, in my opinion, and you could clearly tell in his music. Something about it was missing and here's to hoping that he can recreate that magic once again now that he's hard at work on this follow up project entitled, "Monster".

In the meantime, however, Usher is featured on the cover of Uptown's 5th Anniversary Issue so be sure to pick up a copy whenever it hits newsstands here shortly.

Drake Covers Fader Magazine

Sure enough, the anticipation for Drake's debut album, Thank Me Later, was only helped by the commercial success of "Best I Ever Had" at urban radio; but the thing I don't get is how people can say this guy is overrated.

Aside from being Lil' Wayne's protege, Drizzy 'Drake' Rogers has made quite a buzz for himself with the release of his mixtapes; so, public opinion aside, it would only seem fair to give credit where credit is due.

No other up and coming artist has had this much "hype" surrounding their debut album and already people are blogging about how he'll crumble under the pressure.

Whether he will or not remains to be seen, but one thing I do know is that Drake has everything he needs to be a success. Not only does he have the voice, charisma, and bravado; but substance, over all, is the most important characteristic to have nowadays and Drake is more of a breath of fresh air as compared to everybody else that seems content on being average.

Not to mention, he already has a [well] built in fan base. Either way he could conceivably be heralded as the G.O.A.T. when it comes to rookie M.C.'s but, before I get too far ahead of myself, how about we see how well-received Thank Me Later is when it drops this coming Valentine's Day.

Then, and only then, will I reserve judgment of my own; but, in the meantime, be sure to check for Drake as he is featured on the cover of this month's Fader.

Maliah Michele Covers Smooth

[Click here to view more pics]

This may just be a prime example of an over usage of photo shop, but it's not like I'm complaining or anything like that. If anything, I'm already aware that girls like this don't exist; and if they do, I have yet to see one that looks as good in person as the ones I come across airbrushed on the various websites I surf through [almost] on a daily basis.

But does that make it anymore right to exploit it on my very own website? Of course, not. But, then again, it is my website and I can post whatever the hell I want.

Anyway, Maliah Michele has been doing her thing for quite some time now and she always delivers when it comes to the pictorials. This latest issue of Smooth being no different. However, don't take my word for it. Click the link above to view more pics but be sure to go pick up the new issue of Smooth, also, when it hits newsstands here shortly.

Keri Hilson Covers Complex

[Click here to view more pics]

One thing I love about Complex is that they always have some dope cover art. The Kid Cudi cover I posted yesterday was just as ill as this one featuring Keri Hilson and I just may have to look into subscribing...especially when considering that a lot of my favorite magazines are starting to fold. Hopefully Complex won't be the next magazine to get the axe but, with this economy, there's just no telling.

As for this latest issue itself, Keri being on the cover is a real good look for her and I think it's nice to see her finally get the exposure she deserves. Excuse me for sounding like a broken record, but all the years she spent ghostwriting for other artists was not only well worth it, but it also allowed her the opportunity to better mold her craft as a songwriter.

An even exchange if you will. Nonetheless, Keri deserves everything she's worked hard for and the more publications she graces, the more in tune people will become towards her as an artist. Not just one starving for attention either like some of these other R&B songstresses, but one [actually] doing it for all the right reasons.

Taraji P. Henson Covers Monarch

Taraji P. Henson is a talented actress that is oftentimes overlooked because of her body of work, but I think her role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button opened a lot of people's eyes.

Sure, it would've been nice had the Academy awarded her for such a performance; but leave it to the BET Awards to be the only award show to reward her for a job well done.

Don't get me wrong. I'm happy BET was gracious enough to recognize Taraji FINALLY, but I think this reflects bad on the Academy. Taraji outright deserved that award for Best Supporting Actress and anybody that says otherwise is just being unreasonable.

Truth be told, she's been great ever since Baby Boy as far as I'm concerned; and if Benjamin Button was her best performance thus far, just imagine where things could go from here.

An inquisitive thought if ever there was one, I mind you, but what's even more rewarding is the added attention Taraji has been getting ever since Benjamin Button was released. The magazine covers, interviews, etc. have been long overdue in my opinion; but with people finally starting to take notice, at least her long road to get here can finally be validated. Wouldn't you agree?

Kid Cudi Covers Complex

Kid Cudi is one of the more "down to earth" artists that I happen to be a fan of, but sometimes his music is a little too far out there. Even for my tastes. Be that as it may, he still remains a dope artist in my eyes and the more music of his that I discover, the more in tune I become with what exactly he's trying to say.

Don't get me wrong, it's not like I understand it all. If anything, I'm more confused afterward than I was before I even listened. But, still, I think it's pretty cool how he doesn't conform for his fan base. Instead, he simply makes music for himself and could care less if anybody else feels it or not. That kind of mindset will get him far in this industry and I guarantee you that's why a lot of people are starting to get behind him. I, myself, included.

In the meantime, Kid Cudi shares the cover of Complex with Keri Hilson this month so be sure to check for it when it hits newsstands here shortly.

Kobe Bryant Covers Slam Magazine

Kobe Bryant may have finally been vindicated in a lot of people's eyes by winning his 4th championship ring, but I just can't give credit where credit is due. Something about Kobe has always just rubbed me the wrong way and for me to sit here and say that he deserved it would be a lie on my behalf.

Instead, what I will say is that Kobe Bryant and the Lakers were pretty much handed an NBA championship this year by the Orlando Magic and I just don't see them getting back to the finals next year. Even with the addition of Ron Artest.

If so, I expect the Boston Celtics or Cleveland Cavaliers to give them a much more physical match-up; while, at the same time, be able to create the mismatches that the Orlando Magic obviously couldn't...

Jay-Z | Blueprint 3 Album Cover

Jay-Z is really making a strong statement. Not just with his Death of Autotune anthem, but with the cover of his upcoming album, The Blueprint 3, as well.

As you can see, the simplistic roman numeral three over instruments of music is a creative concept in itself; but as for what it represents...I thought Jay's explanation was pretty on point.

"These things are like the forgotten pieces in hip-hop," Hov explained. "It's still about music. It's not about radio, making gimmicks — it's still about making music. Those things are piled in the corner. These are the forgotten things about music. It's still about music. It's not about radio, it's not about making gimmicks, it's about music. The three stripes that everybody is asking about is made from the original [number] three. The first three they made on the wall was someone carving. If you look at [the number] 3, all they did was connect lines. The whole thing about this album, how I approached it, is that I wanted to make a new classic to start that all over again — to go back to making classic albums like the ones we grew up listening to."

-Courtesy of MTV News