The Munch

I have to admit, watching Beanie Siegels’s new video for In the Ghetto kind of hurts, in the truthful kind of way. More often than not, I find myself rolling my eyes at the videos by today’s hip-hop stars because they tend to project a (reckless) lifestyle that can only truly exist in Fantasyland. In the Ghetto, however, is a far cry from the hip-hop video you’re used to seeing on TV. In fact, the imagery is something you would expect to see in a CNN Special Report. The display of poverty, hopelessness and desperation that is sweeping the nation is more than vivid; its piercing. We must begin to harness the talent and leadership we possess to elevate our country, one ghetto at a time.

I saw this interview with Nas & Nardwuar from Canada. I’m not familiar with Nardwuar so I didn’t really know what to expect. It begins with Nardwuar pointing out Canadian connections to Nas. It was pretty cool and Nas was a good sport. But then… lol, it goes left and ends way more harsh than I would have imagined.

This will be short and sweet, Mary J. Blige’s new video for “I’m the One ft. Drake” is so hot. I mean, I haven’t been this excited about a song and video in a long time. Mary looks dope and she’s keeping it grown & sexy. She really doesn’t need to compete with the teeny boppers because she’s clearly in her own lane (she’s still doing her signature dance moves!!!). After 17 years, I am STILL rocking with MJB. All Day. And I’m saying it: Mary, you’re the BEST. So ladies, Mary has instituted a call to action: stand up for yourself and say, YOU’RE THE ONE! Join me, cuz dammit, I’m the ONE!

Who doesn’t like spaghetti & meatballs? I know… it’s so, um… kiddie. Well, yeah, it is (!) and that makes it a perfect meal in my household. I usually make this dish with store bought turkey meatballs and sauce out of the jar (so easy, but kinda expensive). Now that I have a little more time on my hands, I decided to try the classic dish from scratch. Man… if I could kiss myself, I would. WORD.

I am amazed at how quickly this dish came together (it tasted like I slaved over this all day.) See how a few ingredients turned a regular Tuesday night dinner into something special.

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if this doesn’t work, i’m making a barter deal.

Today’s breakfast was simple: eggs, bacon, toast, fruit & juice. Other than cereal or Toaster Streudels, this meal is a sure bet in my family. I’m working on my eggs and they’re getting better ;). Nothing special to this dish other than baking the bacon, but that is so easy, it’s really not worth a corresponding photo.

I think I really wanted to post this is because I have to acknowledge the family for being supportive of my cooking obsession. They clear the table and wait to eat, just so mommy can get a shot for her blog. They also try almost everything I put before them. Very cool. And I’m extra blessed for having such a talented husband - he captures all of my work! Click for photos! (more…)

 As much as I hate on hip hop sometimes, I am grateful for it. Sadly, it’s one of the few vehicles men use to express themselves. Almost as if their vulnerability will be hidden beneath or protected by the bass, drums, and keys. Here’s a prime example… Havoc, member of rap group Mobb Deep, sends a “letter” to his partner Prodigy, who’s currently serving time in the slammer. Letters are usually shared between two people, but hey, as long as you get it out, I’m cool with the process. 

Well ladies and gentlemen, VIBE is back. That’s right, resurrected from the grave. It was just purchased by the owners of UPTOWN Magazine, Intermedia Partners and Blackrock Digital. Not many details surrounding the purchase, but I tell you what… when you have a publishing & media company, creative agency and digital company teaming up, it sure sounds like a good deal. Let’s see if this new team can fire it back up!

* Check back soon for clips of my interview with one of the owners, Len Burnett, on Sugatreats Radio.

Ok, I have been on a pancake kick this month. I honestly think its because Probe is enjoying them so much. This last batch I made were a combination of Probe’s favorite flavors (for pancakes at least), so by special request, the blueberry banana pancake was born. As usual, (more…)

Excitement all around for our friend The Incomparable Shakespeare. His video for Skinny Jeans (The World’s Gone Mad) is creating quite a stir in the blogosphere. With lyrics like “The world’s going mad. The world’s going drag. Boys in their little sister’s jeans like DAMN!!!” I can see why… peep it yourself: