KlothezMinded

Drake "Take Care" | Album Review

2011-11-17T03:28:00.001-05:00

Artist: Drake

Album: Take Care

Label: YMCMB/Cash Money Records

Release Date: November 15, 2011

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Special Guest Album Review by @JusJey

Mr. “Brand New” is back to steal your iPods and surround systems but this time around he’s refined his style. The Grammy-nominated, rap-crooner Aubrey “Drake” Graham’s sophomore album, “Take Care” hit shelves Tuesday, pushing the categorical limits of Hip-Hop/ Rap in which he’s been defined but seems to forever be trying to break free from. With features from notables such as Rihanna, Stevie Wonder and Andre 3000, the eclectic mix of appearances proves to be a brilliant move for the record, heavily adorned by Canadian band, The Weeknd. With predictions of first week sales ranging from 600,000 to 700,000, Young Money will definitely end the year well.

A strong 16 songs (plus three bonus tracks) and an interlude by Kendrick Lamar compose the Deluxe 20-piece project that Drake took over six months to create, promising more quality material than what he felt he gave on “Thank Me Later.” Straying from the “supa dupa flow” type lyrics he’s been criticized for creating (only used once on the album in “Over My Dead Body”), Drake concentrates on delivering a solid record with music that seems relatable to almost anyone. Album favorites like “HYFR (ft. Lil Wayne)” “Lord Knows (ft. Rick Ross)” and “Under Ground Kings” display a more familiar head-bopping, club knocking Drake and are nothing short of boastful drums coupled with ethereal instrumentation. However, the true essence of this album is the respect that Drake consciously attributes to artists and music that he grew up listening to. Saluting Texas rap-duo UGK, Drake offers some hard-hitting bars over a few lazily clad and over-stretched beats on songs like “Cameras,” (where producer Noah (40) samples a piece of Jon B from “Calling You”) , “We’ll Be Fine (ft. Birdman)” (on which Aaliyah gains a nod) and Bonus Track, “The Motto.”

While the anticipation from sales records will surely play a role in the overall success of the album, what dictates “Take Care” as a classic is Drake’s ability to conspire different genres of musical theory into a single project that not only flows, but fits. So… “Listen, enjoy it.. buy it if you like it and Take Care until next time.”

Song by song review available at: JusJey.Tumblr.com

Drake "Take Care" Is In Stores Now and Available on iTunes

Adele "Someone Like You" | Music Video Premiere

2011-09-29T20:47:00.002-04:00

Adele released the video for her 2nd single, "Someone Like You" today via MTV studios. The somber love song is relived through the eyes of a reminiscent Adele walking the streets of Paris. Set in black and white the video is simplistic and touchy. Adele continues to reign in the US and UK. Enjoy!

J. Cole "Can't Get Enough" | Music Video Premiere

2011-09-14T22:52:00.003-04:00

J.Cole returns with yet another single, "Can't Get Enough", from his debut album "Cole World: The Sideline Story". The song features Trey Songz and samples "Paulette" performed by Balla et see Balladins. The video is set on the island of Barbados were J. Cole and Trey Songz is relaxing enjoying the women and the scenery. Bajan beauty, Rihanna, also makes a quick cameo in the video. Overall the song has a nice vibe to it and has major potential. I just think Roc Nation is not sure how to market J. Cole. His style is not really mainstream and you have to be able just to vibe with him. I'm looking forward to hearing his album.

"Cole World: The Sideline Story" hits stores September 27th, 2011

Get More: J. Cole, Music, More Music Videos

Teedra Moses "Luxurious Undergrind" | Artist Update

2011-09-12T07:11:00.002-04:00

The talented Miss Teedra Moses is one of my favorite artist. I discovered her music through my cousin when I was visiting Baltimore, MD in December of 2006. Her music is so raw and untamed because she sings from her heart. Originally signed to TVT Records (home of Lil Jon and Ying Yang Twins) but the label went defunct in 2008. Since then Teedra has been on her GRIND trying to make this thing happen. Her album "Complex Simplicity" is an underground classic that til this day still goes hard. Her style reminds me of the Mary J. Blige, Teena Marie, and the legendary Anita Baker. I honestly don't know why she hasn't been put on. Everybody needs to hear her music at least once. You can purchase her 2006 album "Complex Simplicity" on iTunes and you can download her latest mix tape "Luxurious Undergrind" right here. Teedra is currently since with Rick Ross's Maybach Music Group (MMG). Hopefully we will hear a studio album from her REAL soon.

Monica "Anything (To Find You)" | Music Video Premiere

2011-09-12T05:39:00.000-04:00

Monica releases the video for her brand new single, "Anything (To Find You)" featuring Rick Ross. The video is simplistic with an old school 90's feel kinda reminiscent of Mary J. Blige. This track is some of that good ole' "feel good" music that just makes you wanna bop to it. Lil' Kim was on the original version of the song, but due to conflict with Ms. Wallace, who is the holder of Biggie's estate Kim was removed from the track. Anything (To Find You) samples The Notorious B.I.G. "Who Shot Ya" track. I definitely see this song making some moves on the charts, it just has a great vibe to it.

New Life hits stores November 8th, 2011

Listen to Monica "Anything To Find You" Featuring Lil Kim & Rick Ross

Pretty Ricky, Jodeci, H-Town "Knockin' Your Heels Off" | Music Video Premiere

2011-09-09T13:51:00.004-04:00

Lord knows I love R&B but I was NOT ready for this foolishness. Miami based R&B group, Pretty Ricky, teamed up with the legendary Jodeci and H-Town for a music video called, "Knockin' Your Heels Off". According to Wikipedia the song was released in 2009 by H-Town, but the song just recently received a video treatment. Released on the ~~famed~~ WorldStarHipHop the video is seriously a Mess.com. The members of Jodeci looked like washed up drunks and I'm still trying to figure out who's in H-Town. Pretty Ricky manages to continue to be as ratchet as they started out. Enjoy!
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Kanye West & Jay-Z "No Church In The Wild" | Music Video

2011-09-09T07:20:00.000-04:00

The creative geniuses over at High5Collective created a controversial music video for supergroup, The Throne's [Kanye West & Jay-Z], "No Church In The Wild" track. Set in the backwoods of a Civil War era southern town. The creators switch the roles creating black slave masters and white slaves, chasing after a slave that ran away. The musical soundtrack creates an erie and unsettling, yet intriguingly thought provoking video that is sure to confuse your emotions. The people over at High5Collective did an amazing job of piecing this video together.

Thoughts?

BONUS:

Check out High5Collective video for Frank Ocean's "We All Try"

Follow High5Collective on Twitter

Adele x Vogue Magazine

2011-09-08T19:41:00.001-04:00

British phenomena, Adele, has taking over the music industry and the world with her sultry and soulful voice. The 23 year old singers latest album, "21", filled with stories of heartbreak and love has propelled her into superstardom selling over 10 Million albums worldwide and counting. The british beauty had broke through the highly "image driven" industry with her full figure and soulful voice. It's rare for artist that don't look a certain way to reach the level of success that she has. She is featured on the cover of Vogue UK for their October 2011 issue and talks about remain true-to-self and embracing her shape.

Check out More Vogue.com UK

Currently my favorite track from her album, "21", called "He Won't Go"

Rihanna for Armani Jeans Autumn/ Winter 2011/2012 Campaign

2011-09-08T19:07:00.003-04:00

Armani reveals images of superstar, Rihanna, for there Autumn/ Winter 2011-2012 AD campaign. The international sensation was shot in NYC by noted photographer Steven Klein. Armani puts a sexy spin on a classic concept. Rihanna poses with a short blonde bowl cut (which I'm not to fond of, but fashion is all about change) in an all black ruffled sweater with black leggings. Miss Fenty will also appear in the Emporio Armani Underwear campaign as well.

Big Sean "Marvin & Chardonnay" | Music Video Premiere

2011-09-07T09:28:00.001-04:00

The Hometown Hero, Big Sean, releases the video for his 3rd single, "Marvin & Chardonnay" (Featuring Kanye West & Roscoe Dash). The video is very colorful and reminiscent of Kanye West "Gold Digger" video back in 2005.

Goapele - "Play" | New Music

2011-09-01T02:26:00.002-04:00

The incomparable Goapele returns to the scene will all new music for longtime fans. "PLAY" is the funky, soulful and seductive new single from the California raised soul artist. Her new album "Break of Dawn" (previously titled "Milk & Honey") is slated for a Spring 2011 release. Excited to hear new music from her. She is one of those underrated neo-soul artist that you must see live. Enjoy!

"PLAY" now available on iTunes

http://bit.ly/playitunes

Aaliyah "One In A Million" BET Special

2011-08-27T18:13:00.004-04:00

Aaliyah Dana Haughton will live forever in the hearts and souls of fans around the world. Her beauty, spirit and music will continue to influence people for years to come. 10 years after her untimely passing we still honor and cherish every memory we have of her. BET put a great tribute together of Aaliyah videos with clips of her closest friends and family reflecting on career and time spent with her. This tribute has to be one of the highlights of the BET networks programming. Even though the tribute felt short to some fans I'm still glad someone took the time to honor her.

Rest In Peace Babygirl

Rihanna - "Cheers (Drink To That)" | Music Video Premiere

2011-08-26T05:56:00.001-04:00

Rihanna releases the long awaited video to her new hit song, "Cheers (Drink To That)." One of her most personal and intimate videos to date was shot over the course of her #LOUDtour and downtime. The video is a huge collage of random and special moments the Barbadian beauty captured while touring. It gives #RihannaNavy and fans a look into the behind-the-scenes action that happens while the international pop star is on the road. Hopefully we will get a #LOUDtour DVD by the end of the year. *crosses fingers... CHEERS and ENJOY!

Rihanna x Cosmopolitan South Africa

2011-06-27T13:33:00.000-04:00

Rihanna covers Cosmopolitan (South Africa) in their new July 2011 issue.

Frank Ocean - "Novacane" | Music Video Premiere

2011-06-20T04:57:00.003-04:00

New musical phenomenon, Frank Ocean, released the video for his debut single, Novacane, of his mixtape/ studio album Nostalgia, Ultra. Mr. Ocean, born Christopher Breaux, released his EP in February 2011 after Def Jam Records but it on the back burner. The EP ultimately garnered a lot of attention for the singer/ songwriter. Def Jam Records will be re-releasing the album on July 26th, 2011. Frank Ocean is apart of the alternative hip hop group, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA). The video for "Novacane" was directed by Nabil and is uniquely creative in its own right.

Marsha Ambrosius - "Late Nights & Early Mornings" | Music Video Premiere

2011-06-13T21:31:00.001-04:00

The beautiful and very talented, Marsha Ambrosius, released the 3rd single and title track, "Late Nights & Early Mornings" from her debut solo album. Miss Ambrosius has been a strong advocate for human rights and equality through the promotion of her soulful, yet sensual music. With not as much notoriety as big name celebrities, Marsha has been able to affect the lives of a vast amount of people all over the world. "Late Nights & Early Mornings" is a very seductive and sensual track that finds Marsha passionately singing over a smooth piano and some simple drums. The video promotes HIV/AIDS awareness through the storytelling of two young couples going on dates and engaging in an intimate night of passion.

Make sure you are using protection and GET TESTED! You only have one life to live and you want to live it as healthy and happy as possible. You should always be upfront and honest with your partner. Treat their life as your own. Stay BLESSED and enjoy the video.

Late Nights & Early Mornings

In Stores Now

Order on iTunes

Rihanna "California King Bed" | Music Video Premiere

2011-05-09T13:36:00.000-04:00

Rihanna releases her fourth video, California King Bed, from her fifth studio album, LOUD. It's an amazingly beautiful video with shows off her natural beauty! The new face of NIVEA!

Beyonce "Girls (Who Run The World)" | New Single

2011-04-18T19:05:00.002-04:00

Girls (Who Run the World) - Beyoncé by HDMI44

Beyonce is back, ~~I guess~~! Check out the leak of her 1st single "Girls (Who Run The World)"! She samples the hot 2010 summer anthem "Pon Da Floor" By Major Lazers. It's going to take a dope ass video to convince me this song is good!
Stitched & Sewn From: Rap-Up.com

Keyshia Cole "Take Me Away" | Music Video Premiere

2011-04-18T15:20:00.003-04:00

Keyshia Cole releases a video for her 3rd single "Take Me Away" off her 4th studio album. "Calling All Hearts"! The video is nicely shot and done in such a simplicity way that it shows off Keyshia's beauty.

Keyshia Cole "Take Me Away" | Music Video Premiere

2011-04-18T15:19:00.000-04:00

Jill Scott "Shame" (Featuring Eve) | Music Video Premiere

2011-04-17T15:41:00.001-04:00

The sensational Jill Scott is back on the music scene after a little hiatus to work on other project. She recently released a video for her buzz single "Shame" (Featuring Eve and the A-Group). The video was shot in her hometown of Philly at the local recreation center she grew up at. The production of the video actually saved the Rec Center from closing because she donated money to keep the facility open. Keep up the good work Miss Scott!

Her new album "The Light of The Sun" comes out this Summer!

Twitpic of The Day: The Amazing Anita Baker & Rihanna

2011-04-14T22:14:00.000-04:00

Rihanna performed on American Idol tonight and did an AMAZING job. Here vocals, look and stage were on point. I love to see Rihanna comeback with a super strong performance. Anita Baker was in the audience along with the Iconic Chaka Khan. After Rihanna's perform she twitpic'd a picture of her and Anita Baker backstage! BEAUTIFUL!

"Jumping The Broom" Movie Review

2011-04-14T02:01:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of attending an advance screening of Sony Pictures, "Jumping The Broom" courtesy of the Florida A&M University Department of Student Activities. Co-stars, Meagan Good and Pooch Hall made a special appearance at the screening to thank everyone for coming out. Even though they came straight from the airport to the movie theater it was good to see them come out in support of their movie. Jumping The Broom was a great movie in my honest opinion. It pretty much embodied everything a positive African-American movie should be minus one subconsciously evident biased. The best thing about the film is that Tyler Perry had NOTHING to do with the production or writing of the movie.

Jumping The Broom is drama/ romantic comedy about a young couple that plans to get married and brings their families together from different socioeconomic backgrounds for one crazy and dramatic weekend in Martha's Vineyard. Laz Alonzo and the beautiful, Paula Patton star as a happy New York couple ready to get married and spend their lives together. Angela Bassett and Loretta Divine star as the bride and grooms' mothers, respectively. The film also boost an all-star cast of black actors like Mike Epps, Meagan Good, Pooch Hall, Tasha Smith, Romeo Miller and more...

The movie doesn't follow the normal wedding comedy movie script, but challenges it with many twist and turns being revealed throughout the film. The entire time I laughed, I cried (just a little bit) and I clapped through the course of the movie along with the rest of the audience. I can definitely say I didn't expect the movie to be as good as it was prior to attending the screening. Hopefully, we (the black community) will support this movie because it was a positive depiction of African-Americans and our lives. We need to be able to let Sony Pictures know that we want to see our stories told on the big screen. The characters all represented something different and familiar even though Meagan Good continues to be typecast as the cute/ flirty/ sexy/ best friend in ever thing she acts in. She is still sexy as hell though with her little cute ass. Mike Epps also did a good job in the film, but I think his charm as a comedian in movies has worn off. I just don't find him as funny as I use too when he was first introduced in "Next Friday". Overall the casting director chose a talented group of individuals to work together. Laz Alonzo and Paula Patton's chemistry was UNBELIEVABLE in the movie. I believed every emotion they were selling and I would be jealous if I was Robin Thicke (Paula Patton's Husband). Also, I must say Angela Bassett looks fucking AMAZING in this film. She is a prime example that, "black don't crack"! The ghetto, "Poetic Justice" they gave actress, Tasha Smith, were a little overkill as well. My only complaint about the movie is that it "seem" to equate having a light skin complexion with money and success. Still wondering why the dark skin cast had to be the typical ghetto/ hood black folks in the story. I think we still subconsciously portray african-americans based on the shade of their skin. That's my only negative about the film, but I digress.

If you enjoy movies that warm your heart and make you laugh then "Jumping The Broom" is definitely a movie for you to see. You don't have to worry about Madea jumping out the closet with a gun cause they're are no minstrel show characters in this film. It boost an all-star cast of black actors that seamlessly work together to paint intricate picture. I would rate the movie a B+/ A- for it's message and cinematic vision.

Jumping The Broom hits theaters:

Mother's Day 2011 (May 6th)

Henry Spencer x Golden Hanger Designs 2011

2011-04-12T17:37:00.000-04:00

The very talented Detroit-based fashion designer, Henry Spencer, is saving the fashion industry one dress at a time. Golden Hanger Designs have been featured in over 40 fashion shows and has set the industry ablaze. I see great things in this young man's future! Check out some of his work and email him for design ideas for your next "freak'um dress".

Kelly Rowland "Motivation" (Featuring Lil Wayne" | Music Video Premiere

2011-04-05T15:08:00.000-04:00

The 2nd member of Destiny's Child, Kelly Rowland releases a video for her new single, "Motivation" which features Lil Wayne on the track. The video is hot, sexy, dark and sensual. I think it proves nice visuals for the track and also features some black supermodels like Shawn Sutton (guy on our banner) and Jessica White. Hopefully Kelly can find her sound and produce a bangin' album this time around.