Big Sean "Finally Famous" Album Review
FINALLY FAMOUS ALBUM REVIEW
An hour ago the bass stopped and the music faded into the background as my ear drums danced to the end of Big Sean's long awaited Finally Famous album. After taking time to recall tracks that stuck out in my mind, focus on lyricism, and production I ultimately divulged my opinion of the record.
"I'm still dreaming bigger than I'm living, and just sleeping long enough to dream, spent long enough in the sheets, it's time to turn it to the real thing." Were the first words heard on the 16 bar intro track beginning the journey through Finally Famous. Dreams, celebration, and the hunger to make it all served as underlying themes on the debut. These messages can be heard heavily on "My Last", "Live This Life", and the closing track "So Much More". The Detroit native also flowed about everything from love to doubters, calling on personal experiences to serve as story telling rhymes. "Don't tell Me You Love me" speaks about an on and off again relationship plagued by the groupies that come with fame. In the mist of the G.O.O.D Music artists self reflection, Sean manages to provide some serious club bangers. "Marvin Gaye and Chardonnay" feat. Kanye West & Roscoe Dash, is already receiving play in the clubs, as well as Sean's next single "Dance (A$$)" where he switches sporadically between a sped up flow and his usually pace, following the pattern of the No ID produced track. Neptunes produced "Get It (DT)" is the perfect mid-tempo track to ride out to and has been getting good feedback from Big Sean fans.
The most undeniable songs on the album is Big Sean's most personal record and staple. "Memories" was a standout on his Finally Famous Vol. 3 Mixtape and on the album an added verse as well as piano playing soulful crooner John Legend provide an even more heartfelt version of the song in "Memories (part II)".
Other featured throughout the album include Lupe Fiasco, The Dream, and Wiz Khalifa. Even with the guest features Sean doesn't get lost in the bustle. The Rookie rapper establishes his laid back style and clever word play on records that appeal to the masses without losing his original sound and personable tracks. With Executive Producer Kanye West and No ID the 23 yr old, who was first noticed by Major audiences after a freestyle on B.E.T.'s Hip-Hop Awards, didn't disappoint in the content area.
Sean makes you feel like you're taking a peak into the look book of his struggle and journey to success. With impeccable rhyme scheme and lyricism you are able to feel each emotion of triumph with him through the passion behind each word. "Man I turned impossible possible, and what these niggas could barley see into the optical.... without any preparation, I exceed these expectations, they wanna see me dead but I gave them dedication." even with impeccable lyrics Big Sean's youthful raspy voice still provides feel G.O.O.D. music. Respectfully 4 out of 5 stars.
BIG SEAN BELIEVES IN THE QUALITY OF HIS ALBUM SO MUCH THAT HE'S OFFICIALLY OFFERING A FULL PREVIEW IF YOU'RE UNDECIDED ABOUT PURCHASING IT. YOU CAN FIND IT ON HIS OFFICIAL ALBUM OR LISTEN TO FINALLY FAMOUS BELOW:
Finally Famous by Big Sean
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE ALBUM? COMMENT BELOW.
B.E.T. AWARDS RECAP: PERFORMANCES AND PICS
B.E.T. AWARDS RECAP
On Sunday June 26th 8:00pm Eastearn time B.E.T. kicked off the 2011 B.E.T. Awards held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles California. Here are all the Red Carpet pics and performances we wanted didn't want you to miss.
KELLY ROWLAND
KELLY ROWLAND
The former DC3 member performed her hit "Motivation" During the show
DRAKE
Drake Performed Dj Khaled's Hit single "I'm On One" during the end of the show
ALICIA KEYS
Alicia Keys performed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her first album release
JUSTIN BIEBER
JUSTIN BIEBER
The heart throb made an on stage appearance beside Nicki Minaj
KERI HILSON
The "Pretty Girl Rock" singer presented the first award of the night
DIDDY DIRTY MONEY
These three took home the award for Best Group
EVE
Eve performed her New Single during the B.E.T. Awards Pre-Show
WIZ KHALIFA & AMBER ROSE
Wiz Khalifa took home the award for best new artist
BRUNO MARS
Bruno Mars performed with Alicia Keys during a remix of one of her classic hits
WILLOW AND JADEN SMITH
The siblings tied for the Young Stars Award
KEVIN HART
This comedian provided plenty of laughs hosting this years show
Favorite Performances
Kelly Rowland and Trey Songz
Big Sean feat. Chris Brown
Alicia Keys and Bruno Mars
Chris Brown feat. Busta Rhymes and Lil'Wayne
Kelly Rowland Takes Advantage of "Motivation"
Kelly Rowland Takes Advantage of “Motivation”
Aside from being mentioned in a Kanye West song or photographed by the paparazzi we haven’t seen much of Kelly Rowland since her “Destiny was Fulfilled”. After two mediocre solo albums and firing Mathew Knowles, Kelly’s career is finally starting to take off in the right direction. The release of “Motivation” her sexual charged single featuring Lil’ Wayne has jumped from number 4 to number 1 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop single charts and she’s wasting no time capitalizing on it’s success. Just a few short weeks ago she replaced Cheryl Cole as a judge on X-Factor, the UK’s top music show. Also to no surprise, Ms.Rowland’s album was pushed back a number of times before her single struck gold. But now her growing buzz has gotten her an album release date. On July 26th you can pick up your copy of Here I Am. Lets just hope the here she’s referring to is on the top of the Billboard album charts. To keep the sensation of “Motivation” at full speed the remix has enlisted rappers Busta Rhymes and Fabolous as well as R&B crooner Trey Songz. The songstress plans to announce her follow-up single soon and will be performing the track for the first time this Sunday at the B.E.T. awards. Going from not even being heard the last few years, to a judge on a popular show, a hot single, and a new album? How’s that for some motivation.
If you still haven't seen the video check it out below:
If you still haven't seen the video check it out below:
Fashion: Trends I'm Tired of Seeing
Trends I'm Tired of Seeing
Snap Backs
'
Death to the easily influenced, lack of innovation, saturated, repetitive, clone thrown trends. Lately it seems like everybody's "style", if you would even call it that, is a general consciences of sameness. Human nature has always caused us to be influenced by media and music figures but now it's gotten out of control. Every time a new artist or socialite emerges people can't wait to become more of someone else and less of themselves. Social Media sites like Facebook and twitter contribute in large part with users constantly tweeting what they think is acceptable and popular in culture, allowing those who wouldn't normally be exposed or worried about trends to hop on the bandwagon. The most unfortunate part is some of the most timeless brands have become visible and the knockoffs and excess to own this high-end merchandise is making companies who have thrived for years through having timeless appeal seem so basic.One thing I find interesting is that males are at the forefront of immolating stars. I've compiled a list of Trends that are starting to make my eyes bleed from over exposure or the fact that people actually think they can pull these off. Here is a list of 6 trends I'm tired of seeing.
Snap Backs
A few years ago you could only find a handful of people displaying this retro entity most likely as a thrift store find, which is a gold mind for those truly into fashion, but since the growth in popularity of rappers like Big Sean who is hardly ever seen without a snap back on, the masses have been snatching up these hats like it's the last thing they'll ever wear. Yikes, Lets hope not.
Rihanna Red
'First she had everyone getting asymmetrical bobs which was a common style. But when Rihanna dyed her hair red it took about six months for the trend to grow on me. I'm not sure why every other female out their thinks this is a good look for them, yet everyday I see a new photo of a peer who dyed their hair "Rihanna Red" the color is too BRIGHT for those living a normal everyday life. So unless you're about to become an entertainer I'm sure your future employers will see this as ghetto not edgy.
Camouflage Cargo Shorts
Camouflage has always been integrated into fashion it's a type of print within itself really. But how many times or people am I going to see with Camouflage cargo shorts? The most annoying part about this trend is the specificity of it. It's like if red and white striped linen shorts were to become popular, the same color, article of clothing, and style. I've seen more camouflage this summer than when I use to live on a military base. Please let this trend die because not only is everybody wearing it but it just ends up looking like this is the only pair of shorts in your closet.
Ray bans
Ray Bans have been popular since the 1950's with everyone from Jackie'O to Micheal Jackson wearing the shades. But after artist like Drake and Jay-Z started making the Wayfarer design their staple those who never took an interest in the brand are rocking them as a complement to their snap backs smh
Bleach Blonde
This trend really shows that twitter isn't the only place people are followers. Although I only have guys pictured females are apart of this color craze as well, in fact Amber Rose has girls cutting all their hair off AND dying it. I didn't she was someone to be imitating. These hairstyle trends are the worst because once they are over you'll either be forced into damaged ends or be rocking an outdated color.
Christian Loubountin Shoes
This is by far the most annoying trend of them all. The people who don't know the Artistically motivated designer whose shoes have been worn internationally for the past twenty years have now resulted to calling Christian Louboutin shoes "Red Bottoms" adding insult to injury annoying Facebook adds with imitations of the shoe are adding to it's depreciation. Louboutins shoes run for between $650-$3000 and sometimes higher so if you're walking around in the ones you paid $150 for they are probably fake. Leave the styles you know you can't afford to the stars, and if you can afford them but are taking a break due to the trend. Giuseppe heels are always a lovely alternative.
WHAT ARE SOME TRENDS YOU'RE TIRED OF? COMMENT BELOW.
This weeks Music Favorites
This weeks Music Favorites
King Mez feat. Thee Tom Hardy and Sean Boog "From The South"
Although this track was released a while ago on a collaboration project A Kings Khrysis, North Carolina native King Mez just released the video and I instantly fell in love with it. This one is for my readers from the South!
KING MEZ - FROM THE SOUTH FT. THEE TOM HARDY & SEAN BOOG from fisdj.foto on Vimeo.
With new album Unbelievable dropping on June 14th KeKe Wyatt teamed up with powerhouse's Kelly Price and Tweet for a soulful R&B song. Check out "Mirror" below:
'Mirror' featuring Kelly Price and Tweet! by CSPNYC
New comer Bennie B leaked "I really mean it" a few weeks ago and as the first solo track ever released by the artist it has already generated close 1,000 downloads. Bennie B who was featured heavily on Khidd P's The Transition: Reloaded Mixtape is now working on his own project entitled What Am I. Although unsure if "I really mean it" will be on the Mixtape it is still getting peoples attention. With the combination of clever one liners the rapper passionately talks about wanting to succeed in the game and doubters, Click the link to Listen Below:
Bennie B- I Really Need it
Upon first listen you might be wondering what the heck was Weezy thinking? But once you warm up to the track you'll find the different approach for the rapper might actually be a good look. In a recent interview discussing the song Lil'Wayne stated that he wanted to be known as more than just a rapper. Take a listen to the heart felt auto-tuned track below:
Beyonce premiered her "1+1" the second single on her upcoming Album "4" while performing on the Season finale of American Idol. This The-Dream produced record reminds us all of the basic reasons why we can't get enough of The Queen.
What are some your favorite new tracks right now and what do you think of these? Sound off below.
BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS
Billboard Music Awards
This past Sunday May 22nd The billboard Music awards took place in Las Vegas, Many of the top artist from the last year were on hand for the event. Pics from the Red Carpet and some of the better performances are below.
Nicki Minaj
Keri Hilson
Pitbull
Taylor Swift
Nas
Kelly Rowland
Beyonce Knowles
Beyonce Received the artist of the Millennium award and puts on amazing performance of her new single "Who Run the world?(Girls)"
Cee Lo wowed the crowd with his creative upside down piano playing performance to his hit single "Forget You"
Other performers included Rihanna, Lady Antebellum, and The Far East Movement.
DRAKE WARMING BACK UP
With the release of his Sophomore album slated for September the Yung Money front runner with the largest buzz last summer has been staying pretty low key working on his new record. Recently though the first possible track to be featured on Take Care "Dreams Money Can buy" hit the internet. A passive aggressive record throwing shots at his fellow peers in an indication that Drake has alot more to say and we'll be hearing it very soon. Take a listen below and check out Drake along side Rick Ross, and Lil'Wayne on DJ Khaled's new single "I'm On One"
Maya Moore: 1st female to sign Jordan Brand Deal
MAYA MOORE SIGNS JORDAN DEAL
Picked number one in the WNBA draft the once two-time national champion at the Uconn is making history by becoming the first female to sign with the Jordan Nike Brand.
courtesy of Clutch Magazine:
"In a press release from the company announcing the deal, Nike and the Jordan family expressed their excitement naming Moore as their newest brand ambassador. Michael Jordan, the brands namesake said: I am thrilled to welcome Maya Moore into the Jordan Brand. Not only has Maya proven to be a prolific winner on the court, but her hunger and determination to make an impact off the court makes her a valuable addition to the Jordan family. We look forward to working with Maya as she carries her success to the next level."
Picked number one in the WNBA draft the once two-time national champion at the Uconn is making history by becoming the first female to sign with the Jordan Nike Brand.
courtesy of Clutch Magazine:
"In a press release from the company announcing the deal, Nike and the Jordan family expressed their excitement naming Moore as their newest brand ambassador. Michael Jordan, the brands namesake said: I am thrilled to welcome Maya Moore into the Jordan Brand. Not only has Maya proven to be a prolific winner on the court, but her hunger and determination to make an impact off the court makes her a valuable addition to the Jordan family. We look forward to working with Maya as she carries her success to the next level."
Being a huge fan of sports I'm very excited about this deal and since I don't wear sneakers I might actually give them a try now. I think it's always a news when a female treads into waters were only men previously stood. This is not only a win for Jordan but may turn more attention to the WNBA. What are your thoughts on Maya Moore and her new Jordan deal?
HBCU NETWORK LAUNCHING
HBCU NETWORK LAUNCHING
With the lack of programming for African-Americans in general ESPN has teamed up with HBCU alum Curtis Symonds to launch the HBCU Network. The Atlanta based Network will launch in August and plans to become nationwide by February of next year. The network will heavily feature Sports at black colleges as well as lifestyle, health, entertainment, and education programming. Symonds believes that HBCU's provide a valuable audience. "HBCU students and alums are some of the most loyal and passionate fans you'll ever come across." For more information on the Network you can visit www.hbcunetwork.com
Interested in being apart of the HBCU network? There's still time! click the link below the picture!
APPLY HERE
APPLY HERE
808s: Frank Ocean Musical Visionary
Frank Ocean: A musical Visionary
Not too long ago there seemed to be a drought of good authentic R&B artists. Gone were the days of soulful songs and singers. They've recently been replaced with auto-tunes or only heard on the hook of your favorite rappers song. Then slowly but surely artists like Miguel, Melonie Fiona, and Chrisette Michele began to quench our thirst and remind us why we've clung to this musical style for so long. Content with the slow reemergence of Rhythm and Blues who would have known that Frank Ocean was about to open the floodgates.This 23 year old is providing us with a sound that we couldn't even imagine R&B music becoming. His album turned free internet release
Nostalgia,Ultra was more than well received and even landed him in the studio with the likes of Beyonce, Nas, and Swizz Beats. The album introduces a innovative and purely authentic sound from the crooner. The sole singer of recently signed group Odd Future, he's invading the ears of thousands across oceans spilling his elaborate stories into your ears and touching hearts.Often compared to Drake and his infamous So Far Gone Mixtape Frank Ocean has the potential to skyrocket into mainstream success. Not because of who he's worked with, some elaborate stage character he's created for himself, or some astounding vocal ability, simply because he has what so many artists in the industry lack today good honest vulnerable music. Songs written about heartbreak, absent fathers, world issues,women and just about every subject far and between allow you to become the songs and feel emotions on tracks that you other wise couldn't have personally related to.
"This guy is the most amazing thing I've heard in a long time. Every record is like a visual picture that he is painting where you sit, you listen to this music, and you see everything that's happening and I don't know the last time I've experienced that with music." Misslabelle1 said to her 28,000 subscribers via YouTube before covering Frank Oceans "American Wedding". Other favorites include "Songs for Women" where he mentions Drake and Trey Songz and "Novocaine" which Ocean often performs and is many fans top pick of song.
Nostalgia,Ultra is getting so much attention that his record label Def Jam has decided to make it a commercial release. Frank Ocean is not to be taken lightly in talent, not everyday do you stumble upon an artist that paints a picture and really moves you, in more than music but in soul and spirit . Don't take my word for it buy Nostalgia, Ultra in stores July 28th or take a listen below.
Nostaligia, Ultra can be downloaded at: www.FrankOcean.com
Follow Frank Ocean on twitter: @Frank_Ocean
Follow Frank Ocean on twitter: @Frank_Ocean
BEYONCE VIDEO PREMIERE "RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS)"
BEYONCE "RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS)"
After releasing her last album three years ago this is the first single off of this international Superstars forthcoming album "4" the video premiered earlier tonight on American Idol and has been highly anticipated for the last few months with images and clips surfacing daily. Embarking on a new style and sound watch how Beyonce Runs the world in her brand new video below.
THE DIVA IS BACK.
After releasing her last album three years ago this is the first single off of this international Superstars forthcoming album "4" the video premiered earlier tonight on American Idol and has been highly anticipated for the last few months with images and clips surfacing daily. Embarking on a new style and sound watch how Beyonce Runs the world in her brand new video below.
THE DIVA IS BACK.
Interview sneak peak! Creators of T.V. show "Ahead of My Class"
I promised my readers I would be expanding the elements on the blog and I'm excited to bring you Epiphanies808s first interview! We like to promote our readers to new innovators in the form of entertainment and the creators of this new documentary style television series "Ahead of My Class" is just that. So who are the creators of this show? and What exactly is the show all about? Check back to Epiphanies808s and you'll soon find out. Until then here is a sneak peak to the article, and a behind the scenes video of the opening to the show being filmed Enjoy!
Article Preview:
Ahead of my Class. The phrase itself speaks volumes. Ahead being the Primary word. In the forefront, superior, and beyond serve as synonyms. In a day and age were television is filled with derogatory partially scripted reality shows of teens and there over flow of drama, backstabbing, tears, and lost direction the images of the youth have left some feeling like this generation or this "class" is failing. However these two young males have managed to turn a simple phrase, into an idea, an idea into a show, and now they are creating an entire movement. and they're doing it in a positive way.Behind the Scenes of the "Ahead of My Class" Intro shoot
Jessie J: THE PHENOMENON
THE PHENOMENON OF JESSIE J
Have you ever heard about an artist repeatedly, made a mental note to check them out, but never did? That's what I almost ended up doing when the hype began to surround songtress Jessie J, and oh what a mistake that would have been. This twenty-two year old UK Song bird has made quite the splash internationally over the past six months and is now testing the waters here in the U.S. Her debut album (which was certified platinum in the UK only a few weeks after its release) was officially released here in the United States. Already responsible for hits from artist like Chris Brown, Rihanna, and Justin Timberlake, she even Co-wrote Miley Cyrus's billboard chart topper "Party in the USA". This British born star struck out on her own and has been making waves ever since.
What makes her so special? From her songs, to her fresh perspective it's clear that Jessie J has a spark that is unmatched by her peers. Her talents exceed the over-saturated sensations we see daily, and is a unique mix of qualities that we haven't experienced from one artist alone before. Heavily influenced by Lauryn Hill and a few of today's artists Jessie J creates music that's a mix of pop infused R&B but manages to bring a soulful feeling in her songs that listeners can resonate with. Yet she still provides a universal sound and that's something major commercial acts tend to miss. Her style and appearance is edgy and risque, always pushing the limits. While her personality is the opposite, often laughing during performances acting warm and friendly towards her fans. Jessie J's artistry and spirit is speaking for itself and her numbers on the Billboard charts are too. The phenomenon that is Jessie J is not only worth the hype but also worth the listen.
Jessie J is most known for her ability to deliver riveting live performances and excel in vocal ability. It was extremely difficult to choose just a few performances by her since I love them all and enjoy every single she has released. Below the videos shown here is a list of links to official Videos as well as other performances and one of Jessie J's interviews. Enjoy :-)
"Who You Are"
"Nobody's Perfect"
"Do it Like a Dude" Official Video
"Mama Knows Best" SNL Performance
Jessie J Interview
JESSIE J FUN FACTS
What makes her so special? From her songs, to her fresh perspective it's clear that Jessie J has a spark that is unmatched by her peers. Her talents exceed the over-saturated sensations we see daily, and is a unique mix of qualities that we haven't experienced from one artist alone before. Heavily influenced by Lauryn Hill and a few of today's artists Jessie J creates music that's a mix of pop infused R&B but manages to bring a soulful feeling in her songs that listeners can resonate with. Yet she still provides a universal sound and that's something major commercial acts tend to miss. Her style and appearance is edgy and risque, always pushing the limits. While her personality is the opposite, often laughing during performances acting warm and friendly towards her fans. Jessie J's artistry and spirit is speaking for itself and her numbers on the Billboard charts are too. The phenomenon that is Jessie J is not only worth the hype but also worth the listen.
Jessie J is most known for her ability to deliver riveting live performances and excel in vocal ability. It was extremely difficult to choose just a few performances by her since I love them all and enjoy every single she has released. Below the videos shown here is a list of links to official Videos as well as other performances and one of Jessie J's interviews. Enjoy :-)
"Who You Are"
"Nobody's Perfect"
"Do it Like a Dude" Official Video
"Mama Knows Best" SNL Performance
Jessie J Interview
JESSIE J FUN FACTS
- Jessi J (Real name Jessica Cornish) Came to the U.S. in search of a record deal and had 8 offers in 2 days
- Jessie J has a background in theater which hints to the animated way she performs her songs
- She was previously signed to Gut Records and recorded a full album before the company went bankrupt before releasing material
- Jessie J attended school with Well known billboard topping British Singer Adele (an old Rival maybe?)
- Selena Gomez is a huge fan of Jessie J and even performed "Price Tag" during her own tour
- Jessie J originally wrote her first single "Do it Like a Dude" for pop singer Rihanna but later kept it for her own album
- Suffering from a minor stroke at the age of 18 due to health problems the singer doesn't smoke, drink, or even have caffeine
- Justin Timberlake recently called Jessie J "The Best Singer in the World Right now"
- For more Jessie J info continue to visit Epiphanies&808s
THE ULTIMATE BLOGGER
VOTE FOR ME AS YOUR ULTIMATE BLOGGER
Vibe Vixen is hosting a Ultimate Blogger competition and I need your help to win! The Top 10 Blogs with the most votes (likes) will automatically make it to the next round for the judges to decide on. So if you enjoy my blog and would like to see my work featured on their site tell a friend to tell a friend to vote for me! VOTE HERE JUST CLICK "LIKE" You can vote until April 16th It's already April 12th so spread the word! Thanks for all the support!
Vibe Vixen is hosting a Ultimate Blogger competition and I need your help to win! The Top 10 Blogs with the most votes (likes) will automatically make it to the next round for the judges to decide on. So if you enjoy my blog and would like to see my work featured on their site tell a friend to tell a friend to vote for me! VOTE HERE JUST CLICK "LIKE" You can vote until April 16th It's already April 12th so spread the word! Thanks for all the support!
