BKBOYEEZ

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!

admin — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:13:21 +0000

WE the BKBOYEEZ sincerely apologize for our absents from the public. We have received all the emails and phone calls; the love is felt. The BKBOYEEZ are definitely conjuring up a worth your wait release with all new sections, new look , and maybe even some new personalities. ‘Til then we will be bringing back some of our archives( oldies but goodies).

keep riding( even if we’re parked)

BKBOYEEZ

Jazmine Sullivan & Robin Thicke Rock Brooklyn with Soul!

admin — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 22:25:03 +0000

Second week in a row! I’m on a roll (you know I couldn’t miss THIS concert). Got there early, didn’t have to wait too long because the line moved swiftly, saw good friends that I see everyday and others that I haven’t seen in years. Marty Markowitz did his usual, and I pre-gamed on the sidelines eagerly awaiting the real start of the concert. Jazmine Sullivan finally hit the stage blowing from the beginning with “Busting Windows”, “Lions, Tigers & Bears”, “Dream Big”, and ending with “Need U Bad“. Her voice was nothing less than amazing- I just wished she stood still a little more and let her voice speak for itself because it was exceptional! Also I had to note that it was a hot summer day and her navy blue dress with black stockings made the day a little hotter.

Oh yeah… and Robin Thicke was definitely a funky soulful “mother shut your mouth!” Very classy- from his delivery to his swag, he proved that he could definitely rock one the hardest crowds to please. Everyone was dancing and singing along genuinely having themselves great time. All the hits were performed (my favorites from the second and third album), but none from the first album. I know it’s the least popular, but that first album was great. Robin Thicke and Jazmine Sullivan gave Brooklyn a great show and WE appreciated it greatly.

Be blessed…KuTs

Random Thought: Recession Protection!

admin — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:30:09 +0000

In this day in age we can’t take enough precaution in protecting ourselves and our assets (no matter how much you have). Here’s an e-mail I received (thanks Mom!) called “Free Advice” informing the general population on keeping what’s yours:

Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put ‘PHOTO ID REQUIRED.’
When you are writing checks to pay your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the ‘For’ line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the numbers, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won’t have access to it.
Put your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a P.O. Box, use that instead of your home address. If you do not have a P.O. Box, use your work address.
Run the contents of your wallet thru a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel in the event it gets lost or stolen. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. I also carry a photocopy of my passport when I travel either here or abroad. We’ve all heard horror stories about fraud that’s committed on us- whether it’s stealing a name, address, social security number, credit cards, etc.
We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them.
File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one). But here’s what’s perhaps most important of all (I never even thought to do this):
Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had already been done. There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves’ purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away this weekend (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them dead in their tracks. Now, here are the numbers you always need to contact about your wallet, if it has been stolen:

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
Trans Union : 1-800-680 7289
Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

Be blessed…KuTs

Guess who’s a ‘BK Boyee 4 Life’?

admin — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:51:56 +0000

Photo Credit: AGM|newyork Photography

Check it! Our boyee, DRE.B.EZ was recently profiled on the weekly Fashion Hurtz Q+A Showoff Series. Click here to read his responses to 10 of the most random questions EVER and feel free to leave some commentary on there when you’re done, too! But before you click out of the site, check out the Fashion Hurtz Store and cop a couple tees while you’re at it. Special BKBOYEEZ shout out to Fresh & Ones. Keep doin’ what you’re doin’, fellas. Make Brooklyn proud & thanks for the love!

Anita Baker in Brooklyn!

admin — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:35:55 +0000

Finally, I made it to the to 27th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Summer Concert Series at Wingate Park in non-other than Brooklyn, New York. Having had already missed two concerts, I was uberly determined not to have this concert meet the same fate- especially because my all time favorite artist EVER Anita Baker was headlining along with (don’t sleep on this dude at all)- Charlie Wilson. I remember being really young and my mom always having the radio on WBLS- at that time Anita Baker ruled the airwaves. Her jazzy, melodic, piercingly clear tonation that made her stick out like a red door knob in a black room also made her a household name and one of the greatest voices of her time. She took me back to my younger years- whether good or bad, I was always comforted by the sounds of Anita Baker. Last night, Anita Baker was my chicken soup, and I had more than my fill. Wearing her signature look, from beginning to end I was caught up in the rapture as she belted out “Angel”, “Fairy Tale”, and “You Bring Me Joy”. I am still on a high and cannot go any further without first mentioning that I am officially a Charlie Wilson fan. With his rendition of “Let’s Chill”, “Baby I’m a Star”, and a Gap Band track or two from his previous days with them- he took the crowd from grooving in their seats to dancing on top of them. With three costume changes all involving something reflective, he proved that he came to give Brooklyn a good show and we received him with open arms. They were classic, left Brooklyn drunken with satisfaction and me thirsty for more.

Be Blessed…KuTTy

Bar/Lounge/Weekend Events (in Brooklyn, of course!)

admin — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 19:20:35 +0000

I’m kinda tight because weather forecasters have predicted rain today, tomorrow AND this weekend, but you know what- who the HELL cares?!?! Be sure to check out these events as I’m sure they’ll still happen rain or shine!

Cinema Under the Stars at Narrows Botanical Garden [Shore Rd bet. 69th & 72nd in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn] will be showing “Toy Story” TONIGHT at 8:30pm. Call 718-748-9848 for more details. [Film]
Celebrate Brooklyn at the Prospect Park Bandshell [Prospect Park West & 9th Street] TONIGHT with the Stephen Petronio Company. [Dance]
Seaside Summer Concert Series at Asser Levy/Seaside Park [West 5th Street & Surf Ave- opposite the New York Aquarium] will have Gladys Knight & The O’Jays performing TONIGHT at 7:30pm. [Music]
BAM MetroTech R&B Festival at Commons Lawn [Flatbush & Myrtle]. Be there on Thursdays thru Aug 6th from 12 noon – 2pm.
Baked Summer Concerts in Red Hook [359 Van Brunt St]. Be there on Fridays thru Aug 14th from 7pm – 9pm. Call 718-858-3550 for more details.
Herbert Von King Park Theatre [Tompkins Ave- Lafayette & Greene] is in full effect this weekend! There will be performance of Chisa Hutchinson’s Dirt Rich [7/23] and William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream [7/24 & 7/25]. The shows are scheduled to begin at 8pm, but feel free to call 212-360-8290 for more details. [Theatre]
Plant & Play Time for Kids at Umoja Garden [Broadway & Putnam]. Plant flowers, dig in soil, harvest fruits & veggies, play games! Be there on Saturdays thru Aug 15th from 1pm – 4pm. [Kids]
Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Concert Series this Monday- July 27th and EVERY MONDAY thru Aug 24th at Wingate Park [Brooklyn Avenue between Rutland & Winthrop]. Performance start at 7:30pm and ALL SHOW ARE FREE!This week’s line-up includes: Anita Baker & Charlie Wilson. [Music]

Let me know if I forgot anything. Ohhh… I know this one’s not a weekend event, but check out Wayne Wonder at Brower Park [Brooklyn Ave & Prospect Place] next Wednesday, July 29th at 7pm. Call 212-360-8290 for more details.

DRE.B.EZ

Black don’t Crack!

admin — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:38:28 +0000

As a youngin’ I always heard the phrase “Black don’t Crack”- well I am here to inform you for the most part the statement is true, but it’s not the the “black” parts of our skin that people of color have to worry about. Since the Summer has begun a lot of my friends have been going tanning to enhance the richness of their beautiful natural brown complexion without wearing some form of sunscreen. Totally dangerous people! Although it is rare that a person of color will get a cancerous growth on the darker parts of their skin, the palm side of the hand, bottom of the feet, and periungial (the area around your fingernails and toenails) are high risk areas for skin cancer. So when you’re laying out on the beach, please do yourself a favor and protect yourself with anyone of the SPF’s (if your going in the water they have waterproof sunscreens available, too). Skin cancer is real, even for us!

Be blessed…KuTs

Things that make you go hmmm…

admin — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:38:50 +0000

“PRIORITIES - is what creates reaction.”
-KuTs

Health & Beauty: 5 Ways to Beat the Heat!

admin — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:20:11 +0000

Yo, this weather has been crazy! I don’t know what Mother Nature is going through… Well actually, I do know. We’ve been consistently destroying our ozone layer, but I digress. We got a piece of summer sun last week, and I believe it caught a lot of us off guard. I was hot as hell! In the event summer wants to swing by again, here are a few ways to beat the summer heat and avoid unflattering beads of perspiration that we pretend people can’t really see.

A cold can of soda on the back of the neck is a sure fire way to cool down. The neck is one of the most exposed and easily overheated areas of the skin.
Run cold water on the insides of your wrists or dip your elbows in cool water. These are pulse points and will help constrict the blood vessels that dilate when you overheat.
Take off your shoes and socks. The body releases heat through the feet. By airing out your feet you lower your body temperature.
Carry some cooling peppermint oil with you. A few drops at the temples will cool you in seconds.
Get a glass of ice- no water! Holding the cup to your face, blow gently into it. The ice will cool the air and it will blow cold air back at you.

Stay up and catch my swag
FaBid

Week in Review

admin — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 18:21:06 +0000

This week has been a rather light one here at BKBOYEEZ.com, but that doesn’t mean we’re not brewing up some future initiatives here at the headquarters either. Although we’ve been out enjoying the Summer (as we hope you’ve also been doing), we’ve made it our duty to keep you up to date with what’s going on around Brooklyn. If you’ve been reading, you’ll already know that Keyshia Cole & Lyfe Jennings made guest performances at Wingate Park earlier this week, our Boyee KuTTy has been getting reacquainted with his good ‘ole friend- ”Free” (we absolutely LOVE that guy!) all while on his quest to upgrade the fung shui in his bedroom. Be sure you keep up with him on his journey, and we urge you to continue checking out the weekend Summer events that’s happening throughout the borough as well.

We want to thank each and every one of our readers for supporting the BKBOYEEZ movement and if there’s anything you would like to see on the site or if you have any ideas you think we should try- feel free to contact us via email: b.k.boyeez@gmail.com or on hit us on Twitter @BKBOYEEZ. Thank you for riding with us!

-the BKBOYEEZ

Room Rescue

admin — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:09:19 +0000

I made the transition from Mom’s house to Independence 9 months ago, and I’ve been living as though I just moved in the whole time! For almost 2 months I’ve been trying to organize and give my room some swagger, but honestly- it hasn’t been going too well. My room has swine flu! Clothes, sneakers, shoes, and hats are everywhere. I have the blueprint of what my room will look like when everything is done, but my mind is being cluttered by my space clutter- which is producing an unsuccessful plan toward getting the blueprint from idea to reality. Now, I have an approximate 3 week deadline to have my room at least half way to the design of the blueprint. I’m going to document my progress for you guys for motivation and of course WHATEVER tips you might have. Will I be telling tales of victory or hanging my head low in defeat? Keep BKBOYEEZ.COM bookmarked to find out.

Be blessed…KuTs

Bar/Lounge/Weekend Events (in Brooklyn, of course!)

admin — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 06:04:59 +0000

Can’t believe we’re still in a recession, BUT there’s no point in basking in its gloom. With that said, let’s hope you’ve been enjoying the Summer FREENESS! If not, get out with the family, close friends, a new acquaintance or rock solo to any of these FREE to low cost events happening this weekend in Brooklyn.

City Parks Foundation Concert Series featuring Chico Debarge TONIGHT at Von King Park [Tompkins Ave – Lafayette & Greene]. Performance generally starts at 7pm unless otherwise noted. Call 212-360-8290 for more details.
SIRENS MUSIC FESTIVAL this Saturday, July 18th in Coney Island. From 12 noon - 9 pm, come scope out an array of budding artists and live bands bringing to Brooklyn the true meaning of free of expression thru music (…there’s 2 different stages, so see line-up below). While you’re there, you can also check out Brooklyn’s historical wonderland- Coney Island and hop a ride on the Cyclone if you’ve got $8 to spare… if not, cruise the Boardwalk for everything in food, family, and fashion (not always “good” fashion, but a good laugh here & there will keep you youthful… *wink*).
Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Concert Series this Monday- July 20th and EVERY MONDAY thru Aug 24th at Wingate Park [Brooklyn Avenue between Rutland & Winthrop]. Performance start at 7:30pm and ALL SHOW ARE FREE! Meaning, don’t be like us last week waiting among droves of Keyshia Cole fans itching to get into the park to no avail. Don’t get caught out there- get there by 4pm if you can! This week Brooklyn has a CLASSIC line-up including: The O’Jays, Jerry Butler, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, and Russell Thompkins, Jr. and the New Stylistics. That’s REAL MUSIC Brooklyn- don’t miss out! We learned our lesson.

DRE.B.EZ

The Streets Of NYC Love MJ (…literally!)

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:52:09 +0000

Look what I came across one night as my sister and I walked around the Upper West Side- just weeks after the passing of the King of Pop! I wish we saw it in the daytime (it would be A LOT brighter), but isn’t this DOPE? … and it looks just like him! This is the Michael I remember wanting to be just like! Can’t say this enough… R.I.P. Michael. …Oh, and special shout out to the artist- Hani Shihada- who’s known for drawing some of the most breathtaking works of art directly on the sidewalks of NYC!

Artist: Hani Shihada

DRE.B.EZ

Random Thought: Brooklyn, the Beautiful.

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:37:30 +0000

I was walking to the train yesterday down Ocean Aveune right beside Prospect Park when I looked to my left and realized what a great day Brooklyn was having at 11am. I walk down this route to the train almost everyday but I’ve been seriously taking it for granted. Brooklyn isn’t know for its glitz, so take a deep breath in and enjoy the view.

Be blessed…KuTs

Keyshia Cole & Lyfe Jennings Brought Out The Hood in BK!

admin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:54:51 +0000

Monday night popped off the Summer Concert Series at Brooklyn’s own- Wingate Park. First on the roster was Keyshia Cole and Lyfe Jennings- both dope artists, so you know the BKBOYEEZ had to be up in there. Unfortunately, so was all of Brooklyn and there was no getting in. When I tell you people were lining up at 4:30pm- I’m serious! The cops had the streets blocked off all the way from New York & Winthrop to at least 5-6 blocks north and had the same treatment on Albany & Winthrop doing the same. That’s crazy! So Dre and I decided to dip out after making our rounds through the crowd. Left with nothing to do, we decided to have cocktails downtown while we figured out the gameplan for the rest of our evening. It just so happens that I have a friend that works at Scopello’s in Ft. Greene. Although I heard Keyshia was “good with her three costume changes and all”, my girl Catherine (who happens to be slightly heavy-handed behind the bar) definitely showed us that we made the better choice. I love a bartender who can relate to her clientele all while whipping up great Mojitos & Caipirinas “with love”! Scopello’s is actually one of Brooklyn’s small gems. It has a intimate, yet social atmosphere and the Happy Hour specials there is off the hook! We ended the night at Rockwells “I Hate Mondays” party, which turned out to be a dope finish to an impromptu evening. Yo! I was twisted off the mojitos and worn out from the spade games. I believe I have found my new Monday night hangouts, so definitely swing thru and catch me at the bar.

The BKBOYEEZ go to Scopellos for the friendly bartenders! Love you, Catherine.

Stay up and catch my swag.
FaBid

This Weekend I Hung Out With My Friend, Free!

admin — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 01:45:14 +0000

This weekend was undoubtedly eventful and all thanks to one of my favorite friends. You may already know “Free”… (and no, not the female who first hosted BET’s 106 & Park) but the worthless kind. The friend you don’t have to come out of pocket for. We started off by making a stop at a Brooklyn backyard alley BBQ (Yardie Caribbean style) full of drinks, food, and some of the wickedest tunes (Bend Ovah Gal!…) FREE was all over “Free’s agenda” and that was just Friday night. Saturday was all about work and recovery, which left Sunday to start in no other place but church. Bad planning moves got me to the last leg and the last hour of fun and House tracks at the Afro-Punk Block Party in Clinton Hills, Brooklyn. Dre and FaBid were there early taking it all in for me, so look out for more details and pics on the block party to come… We hit up Fort Greene Park afterwards, that hosts an event called Soul Summit every Sunday in the Summer, of non-stop rhythmic drum beats and DJ’s. There were hundreds of people housin’, loving, creating and in my opinion, it was one the best feel good atmospheres in Brooklyn and the best part- my friend “Free” was all over that event, too. Then we hit up Moe’s, Habana Outpost, my homie R****, and definitely had a happy ending (Ooooo weeee!). Dope meeting you Tiff (Shout out to B-more); Mel loved running into you (still glad I got the original & still can’t believe you’re back in BK!)

Be Blessed…KuTTy

Random Thought: Just On The Train…

admin — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 03:45:22 +0000

Have you ever been on the train with no iPod, magazine, book or one of your Boyeez for mindless travel conversation. I know, I been there. I always find myself looking around aimlessly trying to find something to occupy me for my 30 minute ride into the city. Ten of those minutes are usually dedicated to getting into how crazy everyone looks on the train. Nothing like a rush hour train ride to show you just how many Brooklynites still haven’t gotten on the fashion bandwagon. The next 15 minutes I’m usually b!*chin’ about how slow the train is going- making me much later than I already am (…’cuz I’m never on time). The last 5 mins I’m usually trying to prep myself for the mad dash I’m gonna have to make as soon as the doors opens.

Today something caught my eye that totally sidetracked me from my regular travel routine. Now I’m sure there’s a title for these things and with a little more research I probably could have gotten the name of it, but whatever! You know that part at the top of the train where they have the advertisements for everything from GED programs to cosmetic surgery? Well, they also have that series of poems and quotes. Although they often provide a reversion to my boring train ride (they mainly confuse me- I just don’t get them sometimes), but today’s quote had my full 30 minute attention. This quote occupied my mind all day. Here’s the quote… tell me what you think.

“To doubt everything or to believe everything are two equally convenient solutions; both dispense with the need for thought.” -Henri Poincaré.

BK&BEYOND

admin — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:00:09 +0000

The son of Brooklyn’s late Godfather of Gospel, Rev. Timothy Wright, will take over at his father’s church starting Saturday. David Wright, 30, will be officially named pastor of Grace Tabernacle Christian Center in Crown Heights during an afternoon service on Friday.
Frank Mickens, the cigar-chomping educator, whose tough love transformed Brooklyn’s Boys and Girls High School from one of the city’s worst to a place of pride died in his sleep yesterday at age 63.
Brooklyn played host this week to the Little People of America National Convention and the attendees found borough residents to be more accepting than in other cities the convention has been held.
Government lawyers are seeking a court order to shut down an unsanitary Williamsburg cheese factory which has produced cheese products contaminated with Listeria bacteria. A civil complaint filed in Brooklyn Federal Court charges that the owners of Peregrina Cheese, Inc. have failed to correct numerous violations found by inspectors at its factory since 2004.
Roxroy Salmon, a Brooklyn father of five and community leader, is fighting deportation. His is not the first case and, unfortunately, it won’t be the last. A recent study by the Homeland Security Department conducted at the request of Rep. José Serrano (D-Bronx) showed a terrible reality: From 1998 to 2007, immigration authorities deported at least 108,434 parents of U.S.-citizen children. Salmon, though, is not alone in his struggle to remain with his U.S. citizen wife and children.
Marty Markowitz loves being Brooklyn’s biggest booster. He’s just not that into being big. The borough president - whose robust personality is matched by his appetite - has packed on the pounds despite leading a public campaign to get his borough slim and healthy.The 64-year-old Markowitz had a heart attack several years ago, inspiring him to lose weight and up his exercise routine. He admitted yesterday he’s slipped and gained back most of what he lost.

Stay tuned to your local news channel for in depth coverage.

Stay up an catch my swag
FaBid

Bar/Lounge/Weekend Events (in Brooklyn, of course!)

admin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:12:00 +0000

If you don’t have any plans this weekend, why not head over to Brooklyn and enjoy the FREE to lost cost festivities hosted throughout the borough this Summer. C’mon you owe it to yourself- and besides, your tax dollars have already been spent on these events so we urge you to take full advantage.

City Parks Foundation Concert Series featuring MC Lyte TONIGHT at Von King Park [Tompkins Ave – Lafayette & Greene]. Performance generally starts at 7pm unless otherwise noted. Call 212-360-8290 for more details.
BAM MetroTech R&B Festival at Commons Lawn [Flatbush & Myrtle]. Be there on Thursdays thru Aug 6th from 12 noon – 2pm.
Baked Summer Concerts in Red Hook [359 Van Brunt St]. Be there on Fridays thru Aug 14th from 7pm – 9pm. Call 718-858-3550 for more details.
Plant & Play Time for Kids at Umoja Garden [Broadway & Putnam]. Plant flowers, dig in soil, harvest fruits & veggies, play games! Be there on Saturdays thru Aug 15th from 1pm – 4pm.
Jazzmobile featuring Danny Mixon. Saturday July 11th at 3pm on McDonough Street [between Ralph & Patchen]
Afro Punk Block Party on Sunday July 12th on Clinton Ave [between Myrtle & Willoughby]. From 1pm – 8pm, enjoy a day full of live music including a special performance by John Forte, live DJs [Rich Medina], DIY fashions, craft vendors, and art exhibits.

F.Y.I.: Just so that you know, our weekends event have been extended until Mondays just because of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Concert Series. Be sure to check it out EVERY MONDAY thru Aug 24th at Wingate Park [Brooklyn Avenue between Rutland & Winthrop]. Performance start at 7:30pm and ALL SHOW ARE FREE! This Monday begins the series featuring Keyshia Cole & Lyfe Jennings. We’ll be there…

DRE.B.EZ

Saul Williams LIVE at the Afro Punk Festival ‘09

admin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:00:12 +0000

It took a little while for me to come off my high after the stellar performance Janelle Monae gave Brooklyn earlier. I took that time to walk around the park, observed the skateboarders & BMXers in their element, and stood in awe for about 10 minutes in front of this massive art exhibit. These masterpieces were larger-than-life, vibrant, creative and fit in perfectly with the Afro Punk vibe. So dope! Basking in wonderful weather in the midst of beautiful people & buzzing artists, you can’t help but want to meet a few new Brooklynites. Between mingling with fellow Afro Punkers, running into my Boyee Digo for a chat about This Life We Live, and praying the skaters & bikers didn’t break their necks (yo! them dudes were ’bout it -no helmets on!), it wasn’t before a matter of time they called up the next artist. Now this dude here… let’s just say I respect his craftsmanship! Saul Williams is a well-known poet, writer, actor and musician who’s been in the game for quite some time. He’s made guest appearances on the UPN sitcom, Girlfriends, had a lead role in the ’90s flick- Slam, and I’m almost certain I’ve seen him bring down the stage on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam. So obviously when he was called to the stage, his real fans rushed to see it. The crowd started off a bit light in the beginning, but before the end of his set- Afro Punk Skate Park was at capacity, again! He was LIVE. It was a little TOO CLOSE for comfort, but a DOPE show to say the least. (P.S.A: Some people really need to introduce themselves to deodorant). Energy was flowing, the crowd was grooving. Classic Afro Punk! Check it out and tune in for more from the Afro Punk Festival…

DRE.B.EZ

Janelle Monae LIVE at the Afro Punk Festival ‘09

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:57:25 +0000

As I entered what most Brooklynites know as the B.A.M. (Brooklyn Academy of Music) parking lot on the corner of Lafayette & Flatbush, I was eager to walk thru the crowd of onlookers in what was now transformed into Afro-Punk Skate Park! There was literally hundreds of spectators awaiting the night’s headliners, dudes soaring through the air off of high ramps (Xtreme Sports style, of course!) on skateboards and BMX’s, vendors selling and giving away merchandise and hundreds upon hundreds of feet of vibrant artwork to adore. Luckily for me, I got there just in time for them to introduce Urban alternative singer/songwriter, Janelle Monae! The crowd went APESHIT as she and her band gave us about an hour of off-the-wall, energetic sets complete with percussive climaxes and billows of smoke. She was truly a sight to see! She warmed hearts with her tribute to the late King of Pop singing “Smile”, completed a 10 minute uptempo tune all while painting a portrait onstage (…literally!), and just when you thought she was spent- she did her signature crowdsurf! I was astonished by her energy and totally pleased with her soaring, yet amazingly controlled vocals. If you’re not up on Janelle Monae- get into her. Tune in later to see more on Brooklyn’s Afro-Punk movement…

For more of Janelle Monae at Afro Punk ‘09, click the link below.

(more…)

Love Maxwell?

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:00:18 +0000

…I don’t hate the brotha, but I can honestly say I’m a bit envious of him. A “good” envious though! He’s just so suave (…that’s that Brooklyn swag- we BK Boyeez perfected), and over the years he has made a special home in the hearts of women worldwide that I’d love to fill too- that’s all! You can’t knock a brotha for that, now can you? ImJusSayin! But Ladies, do I have a surprise for you! Maxwell, (better known as, “your boyfriend/husband in your head”) has dropped his fourth studio album today entitled, BLACKsummers’night. According to a statement made on his MySpace page, this album is the first installment of a musical trilogy he plans on releasing over the next 2 years. With hit single, “Pretty Wings” dominating the airways leaving women everywhere in a frenzy, I have no doubt this particular album will be as successful as his others. Maxwell has been bringing us that effortless “grown & sexy” neo-Soul sound ever since the late ’90s, and he’s obviously continuing his career in the same fashion. I don’t blame him! If the ladies like it, I LOVE it! Definitely swing by the recordstore sometime this week and cop his album! Also, be on the lookout for the subsequent chapters of the anticipated trilogy: blackSUMMERS’night & blacksummers’NIGHT scheduled for release in 2010 and 2011, respectively.

DRE.B.EZ

Are You Down with the Afro-Punk Movement?

admin — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 07:40:44 +0000

Although I’m still recovering from the chaos of my Fourth of July weekend, it wouldn’t be complete without supporting the annual Afro-Punk (AP) Festival in Brooklyn. I literally stumbled across last year’s 4th annual AP Block Party and vowed that I wouldn’t miss the following year’s festivities. Well guess what? The Summer season has come around full circle, and the last thing I wanted to do was make myself out to be a liar! The Afro-Punk Festival is more than a series of free (yep, FREE!!!) outdoor concerts, but it’s more like a cultural movement! It highlights the alternative Urban skate & BMX subculture that has become ever so popular, showcases the work of deserving artists through Music, Art and Film, and this year- they’ve chosen to honor the success of acclaimed American film director, producer, writer and actor- Spike Lee.

While the majority of their events happened over the course of the Independence Day weekend, be sure to check out the official Afro-Punk Block Party on Sunday July 12th to culminate this year’s festivities with an array of live music including special performance by John Forte, DJ Rich Medina on the ones & twos, DIY fashion, craft vendors and so much BK eyecandy you won’t want to leave! Starts at 1pm and ends at 8pm on Clinton Avenue between Myrtle & Willoughby. See you there!

Random Thought: Fraud!

admin — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:28:21 +0000

I know we are in “hard times,” but stealing from the poor is never the answer! I recently found out that the T-Mobile store I bought my BlackBerry from accessed my account without my notification, taking my Social, changing my billing address and ordered themselves not only 1- but 2 newly released PDA’s. I was shocked and pissed off to say the least, but that just goes to show your personal information is not safe anywhere these days. Make sure you do whatever you can to protect yourself from fraudulence!

Happy Independence Day, America!

admin — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:00:09 +0000

In between the BBQs this weekend, I found time to make my way into the city and ended up watching the fireworks on the rooftop of my boy’s friend’s crib. Thanks to the chick (who’s name I don’t quite remember or anything else that night for that matter…), but she was lovely! As most people find joy in fireworks, I was over it in a matter of 5 minutes but thought I’d share. What did YOU do this weekend?

You Gotta Love Nike Blazers!

admin — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:00:14 +0000

A true sneaker fanatic has all of the classics in his/her closet and the collection wouldn’t be complete without the Nike Blazer! For those of you who might be in the dark about this one, bear with me as I shed some light on the Blazer- as it’s often confused with the Nike Dunk. Coming onto the scene in the early ’70s as just another basketball sneaker, the Nike Blazer can easily be recognized by it’s larger-than-normal, trademark Nike swoosh and rubbersole bottoms. Apparently, the folks over at Nike needed a pair of kicks that would stand apart from the others and that it did! Over four decades later, you can’t walk the streets of NYC without seeing at least ONE person sportin’ a pair of Blazers. They’re custom made in canvas, leather, suede, animal print and an array of other vibrant colors. The hightop sneaker is all the rage nowadays and can be perfectly paired with denim jeans and a casual tee, shorts and a wifebeater, or some slacks and a buttondown. They’re just crucial to any wardrobe. Now I’m not telling you to go out an buy a pair (because a brotha knows times are hard!), but all I’m sayin’ is your collection will NEVER be complete without a pair of Blazers in the mix! Trust me.

DRE.B.EZ

Droppin’ Fire in July…?

admin — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 03:16:28 +0000

Guess who’s dropping an album this month, or is supposed to at least…

Maxwell. Queen Latifah. LMFAO. Twista. Demi Lovato. Jordin Sparks. Fabolous. Joe. Chico Debarge.

DRE.B.EZ

July 1st

admin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:09:14 +0000

Ok so it’s the first of July, and I can’t lie- we kept you guys in the dark for most of June. But, (yes! there is always a but) we the BKBOYEEZ are in full affect for the Summer. Brooklyn is like a mecca for Summer entertainment and of course, most of it is free to low cost. What to look for this month: a brand new logo, our launch party, spontaneous events, plus ways to make the most out of your Summer. Let’s do this Summer BK style and keep riding.

- the BKBOYEEZ

Love Birthday Sex?

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:51:50 +0000

…Well your man Jeremih’s self-titled debut album with hit baby-making single “Birthday Sex” is out and in stores today. This young R&B crooner fresh out of Chi-Town has mastered the piano, drums, saxophone and apparently “Birthday Sex” over the years. Signed to Island Def Jam Records, his single peaked at Number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and after watching his first televised performance at the annual pre-show of this year’s BET Music Awards I realized the kid can actually sing. Call me a pessimist, but I question the vocal ability of any and every new artist since the industry has been stuck on that synthesized & overprocessed signature sound T-Pain can’t seem to live without. Nevertheless, Jeremih passed the “does he sound good LIVE?” test, and I don’t know about you- but I can’t get his song out of my head. We’ll see what the future holds for Jeremih, but in the meantime- go cop his album!

DRE.B.EZ

3 Basic Tips to Beat the Heat!

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:22:10 +0000

What’s up with this weather?!?!? Every time it’s just about to feel like Summer’s around to stay- BAM! the clouds come out and fool us all. While I’m sure you’re tired of carrying around your umbrellas during what’s supposed to be “the summer”- here’s a few tips to get you thru those sweltering, hazy Summer days without feeling as though you’re about to fall out.

Drink lots of water! As obvious as this might seem, some people still don’t get it. It’s not about just staying hydrated; it’s more important to hydrate yourself with WATER and not with beverages filled with sugar and/or alcohol. You don’t want to be that person on the train/bus everyone is mad at for passing out during an early morning commute or rush hour.
Pace yourself! I know it’s Summertime and you’ve been stuck in the crib throughout the cold Winter & rainy Spring months. You want to get out and enjoy the nice weather, show off your new worked out body, your tattoo(s), or maybe try to find that special Summer jumpoff. Well you can’t do all of those things if you’re passed the F#*K out somewhere. Don’t overexert yourself or push yourself beyond your physical limits in this hot weather- you will NOT make it! Rest if you need to.
Stay Cool (…literally!) As cliche and as raunchy as it may sound, LESS is MORE in the Summer- especially you, ladies. Dress for the season in light-colored and loose-fitting clothing (but don’t forget to bring a jacket with you as it gets kind of breezy at night). Also, take full advantage of your hater blockers (…your shades/sunglasses) to protect your from the sun’s rays & the haters!

F.Y.I.: Did you know an average of 400 people in the U.S. die every year as aresult of extreme heat? Sounds crazy, but it’s true. Don’t be a statistic!

DRE.B.EZ

GRACE HATS Spring/Summer ‘09 Collection: Part 4 (of 4)

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:14:45 +0000

We’re at the last installment of our GRACE Hats feature. Over the past month we’ve been having a blast with these stylish hats, and this week’s model- Marcia, make this particular shoot a hell of a lot easier. Our boy, FaBid dressed her up, dressed her down and boy, did she deliver! Special shout out to the folks over at GRACE Hats for standing behind such a noteworthy product and giving us an opportunity to promote them, our featured photographer, Zoltan Saro (check out his site on our blogroll), make-up artist, Teneshia and all five of our models who were a part of this initiative. Thank you all for riding with the BKBOYEEZ! Until next time…

On Model: Baguette Floppy Flower| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

On Model: Zebra Hunting Mix [Navy]| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

For more pics from this shoot, click on the link below.

(more…)

Random Thought: Still Speechless about MJ…

admin — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 12:21:33 +0000

I’m still speechless about the passing of MJ. His death has been the one recurring thought in my mind over the past few days. His music was timeless, his talent was immeasurable, he was an inspiration to us all and his legacy will certainly live on forever. I always thought what would happen if MJ died? Would the World be ready for it? Would we mourn his death or celebrate his life? Just as I thought I’d never be around to witness the first Black American president become elected, who would have known that the King of Pop would pass away in my lifetime too? It’s been MJ mayhem throughout the media, on the airwaves, in the clubs, and on the streets of New York. It’s scary to even fathom the extent of his reach, as he effected so many people in a myriad of ways. He was a global icon! He was the BEST performer to EVER LIVE. He was often imitated, but never duplicated. A musical genius, a great humanitarian and he’ll be greatly missed. I love you MJ!

R.I.P.: Michael Jackson (Aug. 29, 1958- June 25, 2009)

admin — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:15:11 +0000

June 25, 2009 started out just OK, but as the day went on- it grew worse. The sun was shining bright, and I slept right thru it waking up frazzled & late. With 30 minutes until my 2 o’clock class, I picked TODAY to not know what to wear (for at least 15 minutes), misplaced my keys (for at least 10 minutes), and my last 5 minutes were spent walking out of my apartment and down the block in that annoying, breezeless (if that’s even a word) Summer heat. So now I’m officially late, annoyed and waiting longer than usual for a dollarvan. When one finally pulled up with no A/C (F#*K!!!), guess where my seat was? Yep! The MIDDLE seat in the last row of a FULL van. So you know I was livid and trying to stay calm because the more angry I got, the more I kept sweating! Normally I’d have total faith in the drivers who wrecklessly, weave in and out the lanes on Flatbush Avenue because not only do I love an adventure, but I know they’ll get me where I need to be in half the time. Well, not today! Now, it’s 2:50, my group partner’s late, we’re in class playing catch-up the whole time, the teacher’s in one of her moods being shady, and I just want to say “F-It” and go hit up Habana Outpost (…my drinking spot!) Instead I sit thru it until 5 o’clock and head straight home. Within 20 minutes of me being home my little sister calls to tell me that Michael Jackson had died. She was walking on 34th Street and apparently, that was the topic of everyone’s conversation. Immediately, my eyes filled with water as I turned on the TV only to see that it was actually true. At the age of 50, the King of Pop had died and I was speechless…

DRE.B.EZ

BKBOYEEZ EAT: Moroccan at Babouche Restaurant & Lounge

admin — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:30:03 +0000

When I’m bored, there’s only one thing I can ALWAYS do and that’s EAT! It was a Thursday evening, I was twiddlin’ my thumbs in the crib, when my Boyee Rick called me from his NEW ride. Excited for him but hungry as hell, I suggested we go for a spin to get some food and he agreed (…the Power of Persuasion can be a great asset, huh!?) We cruised into Park Slope, Brooklyn to this Moroccan spot he heard about earlier in the week called Babouche Restaurant & Lounge. As we approached the entranceway, we were quickly guided to our table to peruse the menu which consisted of authenic Moroccan dishes with a contemporary French flair. While I’m not a huge fan of either cuisine, I decided to keep it simple as the prices were kind of up there, I wasn’t down for any surprises and as stated earlier- I was starving! Don’t get me wrong- I’m not opposed to trying new things but in times like these when dining out happens less frequently, it’s crucial to make wise decisions in terms of what you’re eating to avoid leaving any restaurant unsatisfied. With that said, I ordered the Saumon Grille and a CabSau (that’s Cabernet Sauvignon- if you didn’t know) and my Boyee Rick had the same wine as well as the Steak Au Poivre.

(more…)

This Life: Blame It On The…

admin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:44:50 +0000

In this life you’re responsible for your own actions; you can’t blame it on anyone or anything- despite what Jaime Foxx says. For instance, I recently experienced a situation where someone who I considered “a friend” overstepped their boundary in our friendship, and I couldn’t find peace within myself until I confronted them about it. Imagine already feeling despondent about a particular situation in life, only to have “a friend” make you feel a lot worse about it. That’s not cool and unlike the popular Dionne Warwick song, “that’s NOT what friends are for!” To make matters worse I learned the following day that even after the well-deserved tongue lashing I couldn’t hold back- come to find out “my friend” was “drunk and didn’t recall the situation”. WTF??? Now that totally pissed me off because you know the truth comes out when you’re drunk, so he obviously meant what he said and everything that I said clearly went thru one ear and out the other! Whether under the influence or not, that’s no excuse to get too familiar- especially when the friendship is still new. My advice is: It’s never too early or too late to CHECK your friends when they get too comfortable. If they’re a true friend, they’ll know it’s not coming from a bad place and your feelings should never come second to their Aah-aah-aah-aah-aah-ALCOHOL!

DRE.B.EZ

NEW Mixtape from Mz. Mimz: Thoughts While Getting Dressed…

admin — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:30:30 +0000

Mz. Mimz is back at it again with her all NEW mixtape- Thoughts While Getting Dressed… Check out this preview of her at S.O.B.’s performing “Thoughts While Getting Dressed” and be sure to download the mixtape for FREE, right here! We already did…

EXTRA, EXTRA… This Just In!

admin — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 21:45:25 +0000

Just got a tweet on Twitter from our girl, Mz. Mimz (in Chocolate City), that her much anticipated mixtape will be released on her website tomorrow and for FREE 99!!! Check out this exclusive BKBOYEEZ interview with her, and we’ll be back with more later… It’s late. I’m going back to bed…

Oh! Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/BKBOYEEZ

GRACE HATS Spring/Summer ‘09 Collection: Part 3 (of 4)

admin — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:00:43 +0000

Fellas, we’re doing it again just for you! We know that having a keen sense of style is something that’s expected from a woman, but in 2009- dudes are tapping into their personal styles just as well. So if you’re not one of those dudes, it’ll be in your best interest to rock with the BKBOYEEZ and allow us to help you jump on the bandwagon. C’mon bruh! No one wants to be left behind! So whether you’re going for that swave “Night on the Town” look, that casual “I’m not dressin’ up to go there…” look, or just need a quick fix until you get your braids or locks redone- GRACE Hats is the perfect accessory to help you preserve your sexy! Check out our model, Jha, as he brings his swaggerific style on set of this photo shoot. Special shout out to Jha for just being ON at the CRACK OF DAWN (…literally!) and our photographer- Zoltan Saro for doing what he does best. We have one more photoshoot for y’all, but you have to wait until next week for that so stay tuned…

On Model: Alu Hat Button [Grey]| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

On Model: Moby Hat| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

For more pics from this photoshoot, click on the link below.

(more…)

Happy Father’s Day!

admin — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 19:59:06 +0000

NEW Poe Picasso: “Swag Surfin’ (Brooklyn Remix)”

admin — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:00:19 +0000

Yo! Check out the new track from our Boyee- Poe Picasso. Tell us if y’all feelin’ it Brooklyn…

This Life: Summer Fun…Better use your head!

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:50:15 +0000

The Summer solstice is almost here, and I know most of us have one thing on our minds: “Let’s get crazy!” But we can’t forget how important the Summer can be for furthering yourself in your endeavors. Nothing is wrong with partying because if you know me, you know I enjoy a good time out with my peeps but it’s about learning how to party the adult way. GET your mind from down below… I’m talking about networking and partying with the right people, using your good times and turning them into better times to come. As I get older, the zest for being responsible for my future grows tremendously so I am just letting you guys in on steps I’m taking in my own life. But please, don’t be obnoxious with it. Don’t just seem eager to use what someone else has. Actually try to bring these people into your business circle, so that everyone can benefit from everyone.

Be blessed…KuTTy

Q&A with KuTTy: Dad…?

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:30:37 +0000

There are not many words that I would want to say about my “Dad” because I made a decision not too long ago to let all that I have against him go. Like a lot of people I know, my father was absent for most of my life and I resented him for most of my life. Then there came a time when I realized that by resenting him for so long, I was blind to the person who was always there. My mom wore both the title of Mother & Father, and she wore it well- doing what she had to do to make sure we never needed anything, along with holding her own resentment. So my Mom was my Dad, and I love and appreciate her along with the life she provided wholeheartedly.

BKBOYEEZ Adventure: Off To See THE WIZ…

admin — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:00:47 +0000

When I found out that the rumors were true, I couldn’t wait to see it for myself. There’s been a buzz going around the city about The Wiz returning to the stage, and I’m so grateful to have quite a few friends actually performing in this classic production. If anyone knows me well, they know The Wiz is my all-time favorite musical EVER! So I was ecstatic when I received word from KuTTy that our Boyee, Ryan- was able to finagle both of us Orchestra seats to the preview of the show. Although it was a gloomy Thursday evening, we eased on down to City Center to watch the magic unfold. Before I even get into it, I’ll begin with the all-star cast including: Grammy Award winning recording artist- Ashanti playing “Dorothy”, film & television star Orlando Jones playing “The Wiz”, Tony Award winner for The Color Purple- LaChanze playing “Aunt Em & Glinda (The Good Witch of the South)”, film & television star Dawnn Lewis playing “Addaperle (The Good Witch of the North)” and beloved television star Tichina Arnold playing “Evillene (The Wicked Witch of the West)”. Their presence alone was enough to keep me at the edge of my seat the entire night as I eagerly waited for each of them to grace the stage. The show was pretty good, and between you and me… Ashanti totally shocked me! She actually held her own hitting notes I didn’t think she was vocally capable of reaching. The Scarecrow, Tinman and Lion (played by Christian Dante White, Joshua Henry & James Monroe Iglehart) were mesmerizing and vocally captivating. But, the dancers, were the glue that kept the entire production flowing seamlessly. They were ON and their energy was out of this world. You know I’d love to dissect this entire performance, but I don’t want to ruin it for anyone. But I must say, it was touching to see an ALL BLACK cast doing the DAMN THING… and doin’ it well at that too! The production is only in town for a limited time and will conclude on July 5th, so I employ you to round up some kids or head out on a solo mission to see this amazing show. You’ll love it- I promise.

DRE.B.EZ

GRACE HATS Spring/Summer ‘09 Collection: Part 2 (of 4)

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 10:10:52 +0000

We’re back again with more GRACE Hats you should definitely get into this Summer. This time around we decided to show you how versatile they can be- depending on what they’re paired with. They can come in exceptionally handy on those casual Summer days, where you just want to feel comfortable and not overdone. In this particular shoot, we tried to showcase that relaxed style our model, Aurora, already possesses (when she’s not out in her chic & trendy ensembles we adore, of course). We’d like to thank her for working with us and for always supporting the BKBOYEEZ initiative, our make-up artist- Teneshia, our boy FaBid for styling the shoot and noted photographer- Zoltan Saro, for extending his expertise.

On Model: Alu Hat Art Zipper| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

For more pics from this photoshoot, click on the link below.

(more…)

Q&A with DRE.B.EZ: Dad…?

admin — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:42:48 +0000

This question couldn’t come at a better time with Father’s Day coming up this Sunday and all, but it’s definitely a question that I have to choose my words well with nevertheless. Hmm, Dad? …I definitely had one (as we ALL do), but he passed away when I was 12. There was another “father figure” in my life who came along afterward, but I won’t even mention him as it’ll open up a whole new can of worms I’m just not trying to revisit right now. I guess I’m what you’d call- a product of the dreaded Urban statistic. You know what I’m talking about? Recording artist, Teairra Mari, said in well in one of her hit songs chanting, “I ain’t had no Daddy around when I was growin’ up…” I have very few and faded memories of my father because he wasn’t always there, but I don’t hate him for it. At the time, I guess it was the thing to do- have kids then abandon them and the woman who gave birth to the offspring too. You can’t really miss something or someone (in this case) you can’t really remember. But I thank and respect my mother for being both Mom & Dad- especially raising me (a male, at that!) in an Urban community filled with temptation. As I grow older, I can honestly say that I thank my father for not being there as he has actually taught me something in his absence: When the time comes for me to have my own kids, I will do EVERYTHING in my power to be the BEST FATHER mine just wasn’t. …And who says good doesn’t come out of a bad situation? Don’t believe the hype!

Week in Review

admin — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:00:47 +0000

Damn! I’m exhausted. It’s been a long work week for the BKBOYEEZ, but we can’t wait for the great weather News Channel 12 promised and the great times at the Puerto Rican Day Parade tomorrow. We kicked off the week with more ways to maintain that fresh to death swag with our GRACE HATS Spring/Summer ‘09 Series, we put you on to the new Black Eye Peas album that just dropped, and even found time to teach you a life lesson. We’ll be back in a bit, but until then- come out and enjoy the culture and eyecandy (wink!) at the parade manana.

Thank you for riding with us.

the BKBOYEEZ.

Random Thought: I Can’t Sleep!!!

admin — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:55:33 +0000

I never thought I lived in the hood, but I’m starting to have second thoughts and here’s how. My bedroom window in my Brooklyn apartment is across the street from what becomes an over 30 “after hours playground” for the dudes who “run the block” and their acquaintances to be as obnoxious as they possibly can (until 5-0 comes). Typical, huh? Unlike most playgrounds that are in full swing during the daytime hours, this narrow cement romping ground doesn’t climax until around midnight. Night after night, I’m disturbed by loud quarreling, drunken escapades, arguments with clients (i.e. crackheads), and your occassional gunshots. Don’t be alarmed- I’m immune to ‘em. I live amongst young boys turned grown men programmed to chase that easy money, but why at my expense? When did working AND playing on the block boost your street cred? Now I’m no pharmacist, but that’s totally not okay when you’re running an illegal operation. I’m not tryna knock anybody’s hustle because (…eh hem, “It’s Hard Out Here For a Pimp!”), all I’m sayin’ is why tonight? Damn!

Q&A with DRE.B.EZ: Do you believe the U.S. should have an open door policy toward immigration?

admin — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:00:40 +0000

Hmm… that’s a tough one. There’s so many immigrants in this country, you would have thought we’ve already agreed to an open door policy. I love the United States just because it’s one big cultural melting pot though. I would never want to it any other way. Think about all of the things you can’t live without- the services provided to you by “the immigrant” who’s just happy to be here, seeking every moment to fit right into the American ideal of life- i.e. the close family that prepares your dreaded guilty pleasure- the tasty, yet calorie-filled Chinese food you try to avoid but always fall victim to in the late night hours, the African & Middle Eastern cab drivers who chauffeur you around the city when you’re feeling Hollywood and on the go, and even the bussers and cooks at your favorite restaurant. Let’s face it- immigrants provide all of the services your average American just won’t fathom calling “a job”. We need immigrants in the U.S., we just don’t need any coming into the country without good intentions. Nowadays that’s kind of difficult to determine, and as a result I guess I’m against an open door policy. People are going to try to do what they want anyway, so if there’s any immigrant clever enough to illegally get into the U.S., it’s cool… you can stay. We can’t do anything about it, but step our game up! Right?

Pop!

admin — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:30:59 +0000

Love Pop?
…Well Black Eye Peas is back with their fifth studio album, The E.N.D. (”The Energy Never Dies”), and I can’t wait to get my hands on it. Whenever will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Fergie get together, they create something innovative & uncomparable to anything else in the industry. They’ve found their niche and have definitely stuck to it over the years. Their hit single, “Boom Boom Pow” is definitely a favorite of mine; it has that heavy techno-funk beat that just gets under you. It has also been rumored that the rest of the album follows the same treatment- not the Hip Hop/R&B sounds we’re used to. Check out this LIVE video of Black Eye Peas…

DRE.B.EZ

GRACE HATS Spring/Summer ‘09 Collection: Part 1 (of 4)

admin — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:07:36 +0000

As promised, we’re bringing you more GRACE Hats! We love rockin’ em, and live for the attention they create. Dudes, this one is for you! Don’t be afraid to abandon your fitteds this Summer and get into one of these. It’ll help create a classic, yet finished look and trust me- the ladies will love it and your Boyeez will be GREEN with ENVY! Throw ‘em on with a solid or graphic tee, dress it down with denim or dress it up with some slacks. But whatever you do, make sure you own the look or it’s pointless. Dare to step out of the box, off the block and into one of these GRACE Hats. Believe me, you’ll turn heads…

On Model: Sew Hat| Photo Credit: Zoltan Saro Photograhy

For more pics from this photoshoot, click on the link below.

(more…)