The Spotlight by Brittany Shawnté

Whitney Houston Passed Away

2012-02-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

I woke up to some terrible news just now. Legendary songstress, Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 48. The singer was known for her outstanding music and movie career, as well as her sad drug use and her crazy marriage to singer Bobby Brown.

Whitney's publicist, Kristen Foster, said Saturday that the singer had died, but the cause and the location of her death were unknown, according to ABC. Several other news sources such as CNN and TMZ has reported the singer's passing as well.

I honestly am in shock. One, because Whitney was only 48. That's my parents' age. I could only imagine. Two, she seemed to be on the road to getting herself together. We are truly losing all of our legends. Etta James, Don Cornelius, and now Whitney! It's terrible! Praying for Bobbi Kristina and the rest of Whitney's family. This is truly unbelievable!

RIP Whitney!

Blue Ivy Carter!!!!! (PICS)

2012-02-10T18:35:00.001-05:00

Yes, it's her! Yes, they're real! Beyoncé just posted pics of Baby Blue on her official website! She's soooo precious! #Spazzin!

See more at HelloBlueIvyCarter.Tumblr.com!!!!
Congrats again to Bey and Jay! Blue is absolutely beautiful!

"The Follow Game"-Jersey Shore S5, E6 (Recap)

2012-02-10T09:09:00.002-05:00

Picking up from last Jerzday, Mike decides to call the Unit to come down and tell Jionni the "truth,"to rile up some trouble with Snooki. However, Unit is on vacation on Miami. Apparently, now Deena's sister is messing around with Mike's brother. Mike wants the details on that to bring up later in the house. I honestly think that dude's just bored with life. He needs something to do with himself at that house. There's good drama, and then there's boring same old drama. Mike bores me.

Meanwhile Jenni is having her issues with Roger not spending enough time with her, which is sad because I think they make a really cute couple. Roger step your game up!

Later, the house heads to Aztec, which is NOT better than Karma at all. Jenni ends up leaving early, since she's still in a funk about Roger. Here we see the DTF game at play. Vinny finds two chicks, and one is much better looking than the other one, so Vinny sends her away. Only DTF 1 comes back, and then Deena keeps DTF 1 busy (the ultimate wingman) , while Vinny talks to DTF 2. HA! Then it turns out that after all that DTF 2 is a LESBIAN! Can we say karma, Vinny?!

Snooki walks home drunk. Shoutout to those fur boots she had on! Everyone else ends up walking home together later, and Vinny is disappointed that Nikki (DTF 2) doesn't even want to come in. However Deanna (DTF 1) is still there with Deena, so Vinny has a back up. Oh the games!

Jenni calls Roger and asks him where the hell he's been. Roger tells her that he "messed up his phone," and couldn't go to work today. It all sounds shady. She vents to Snooki, but Snooks seems to be cuddled up with Crocodily, so I doubt she was paying much attention. Later, Jenni is supposed to go out on a date with Roger. However, Roger calls and tells her that he is stuck at work, and is running late. She feels like he doesn't put her first, and puts him ON BLAST and hangs up the phone! She's really let down, which I can definitely understand!

The Meatballs and Pauly go to work. The Meatballs play the follow game around the store, and end up running out of the store. They go to the bar, which pisses off Danny. He goes to find them, and the girls play hide and seek. They're like kids! The Meatballs end up finding a bachelorette, and leave to go drink with her in celebration of her upcoming nuptials!

Meanwhile, Pauly actually has a stalker, who he saw on the boardwalk once. She wears the same Pauly D outfit and hat every time he sees her! Vinny, Jenni, and Pauly go to find the Meatballs, and Pauly sees the girl AGAIN! Pauly is legit scared! Later, at the bar, Pauly and Vinny are playing pool, and there goes the stalker! He ends up meeting her, when Vinny introduces her as a joke, after Pauly pulled out a grenade on him earlier.

Danny is really pissed at the Meatballs because they always mess around. Deena calls to apologize, but Danny is still mad. At the end of the day, that's his business, and sometimes people in the house act like the Shore Store is a big game.

At Sunday dinner, Mike brings up the fact that his brother is still dating Deena's sister. Mike makes some underhand jokes. After dinner, Mike calls the Unit and asks about the couple. He finds out that it's a "smash and dash" with Deena's sister and Mike's brother. Deena is not really sure about the new couple and is suspicious still of Mike, saying "A leopard never sheds its stripes." Wow. Just wow. It's so hard for me to defend myself watching this show sometimes! Haha I love Deena, regardless!

A little later, Deena's sister Joanie calls. Joanie and Mike start talking about the date, and wants it to continue to go on, just so he can find out some juicy dirt.

The next day, Pauly and Vinny go to the gym, and see Roger. Roger makes it clear that he's not going to be calling Jenni, running back to apologize. He doesn't play games, so Jenni may be waiting by that phone for a while. Vinny goes back and tells Jenni what's up. Jenni may be being stubborn, but I still say she's right. Girls stick together, guys stick together, I guess. She does eventually suck up her pride and call him to apologize, and Roger goes off on her! He tells her if she doesn't stop with her insecurities and start trusting him, their relationship is going to be through!

That's a way to end Jerzday!

"Ni**as In Paris"-Jay-Z & Kanye West (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

2012-02-09T12:57:00.000-05:00

Jay and 'Ye dropped their video for "Ni**as in Paris" today. The video features them at one of the concerts for Watch The Throne! Features a lot of sound effects, flashing lights, and a crazy live audience! Not the video I expected, but I love this song! The performance was hot! Check out the video below!

What do you think of the video?

"Drink, Pray, Love"-The Game S5, E6 (Recap)

2012-02-08T10:36:00.001-05:00

Picking up from last Game Day, Malik finally sells off his house, and is depressed. Meanwhile,Melanie wants to go Drop Bar on a date with Derwin, though it's underhandedly to get at Tasha, who goes there all the time. Jason gets a new co-anchor, Summer Grayson, on the show and goes off. With the network suggesting that they sexy up the show, Summer is gorgeous, which they hope will bring in more viewers. However, Jason isn't feeling it at all.

Read more below!

Malik and Tee Tee reminisce on the memories of the old house (the dinners, and the many parties haha) to Boyz II Men's classic "It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday." All this time, Malik had a pool, and never learned how to swim. He jumped in, and almost drowned. Tee Tee went in to save him, only for Malik to stand up in the water. We also see that Malik also bought a horse that he never rode, or even petted. It was the best laugh I've had yet!

Later, Chardonnay and Jason talk about the show. After talking to her, Jason accepts the fact that he has a co-anchor.

Melanie and Derwin get to Drop Bar, just for Melanie to irk Tasha, and of course Tasha gets irritated. It's like a competition of who's going to tip the best, and stay the longest. Derwin eventually leaves Melanie to her stupid game. Melanie and Tasha stay until closing time, each trying to be the last ones to leave. I just want them to be friends again, but I doubt that will happen soon. BET is going to stretch this drama with them for all it's worth.

Later, Malik tries to light the house on fire, because he doesn't want anyone to have it. He shares with Tee Tee that he had dreams since the third grade of moving out of the projects and having a great house for him and his mom, even showing a picture he drew back then. Now, in having to sell the house, he feels like he's letting that kid down. Tee Tee encourages him to rise from the ashes and move on to the next dream. He burns the drawing, instead of the house, determined to do just that.

Chardonnay and Jason have dinner, and talk about how Jason intends to handle being around a white female co-anchor. Chardonnay is very insecure about it, and Jason doesn't want to deal with it. He see her as his rock and ride or die, and Chardonnay feels like she doesn't have enough to be with him. She's very suspicious that Jason will get caught up in his new co-anchor (one because she's white, and two, she's very beautiful). However, Jason assures her that he wants to be with her, with Chardonnay assuring him that the show will be fine. I really like Brandy on this show. Her character works very well with Jason!

Next Game Day: Malik and Derwin bond over making fun of new quarterback Kwan, who make the Sabers lose a game.

Beyonce Is Back!

2012-02-07T01:11:00.002-05:00

Now officially a month after Blue Ivy stepped out into the world, Beyoncé made her first appearance post-birth at Jay-Z's concert at Carnegie Hall tonight. Later she headed out to the 40/40 club with Mama Knowles and hit the VIP with Jay and Nas (via Necole Bitchie)

I mean, let's be real. How many moms out there wish their bodies looked like that after birth? Shoot, I wish my body looked like that now! "Strong enough to bear the children, then get back to business." BEYONCÉ IS BACK! I knew it wouldn't be long.

"It All Belongs To Me"-Brandy and Monica (SONG)

2012-02-06T18:32:00.000-05:00

All I can say is: FINALLY! We have been waiting for this duet for quite some time, and Brandy and Monica didn't disappoint. The duo released their newest song together "It All Belongs To Me," today and the world is going crazy, with Brandy and Monica and the song title become top trending topics within 20 minutes of the song's release!

The collaboration, produced by Rico Love, features the women kicking out their men on the soulful song, which will appear on both of their upcoming albums.

Listen to the song below!

“It’s a very soulful R&B song with pop sensibilities,” Love told Rap-Up.com. “I wanted to make sure I made it a classic R&B record, but I definitely wanted to make sure that it had enough appeal to cross over and become a Top 40 record.” Brandy added, “This business is all about competition. They forgot about what is the most important, which is two talents coming together. It’s just great to come back and do something with [Monica]. This is definitely a blessing.”

It's been 14 years since Brandy and Monica dropped their duet "The Boy Is Mine" in 1998. I remember being a kid and going crazy every time that came on the radio! To hear them again together is great! I think that their voices really compliment each other, and it's great to see them back together on this song! It's an amazing jam!

"Nothing But Nice"-Jersey Shore S5, E5 (Recap)

2012-02-03T16:08:00.001-05:00

This normally comes a lot earlier in the day, but here we go anyway. Picking up from last Jerzday, VINNY IS BACK!!!!! The house is whole again! The crew celebrates Vinny's return by heading to Karma, where Vinny and Pauly pick up their bromance. If there was a list of the top bromances in reality TV history, guarantee that they would be top five. Meanwhile, Pauly and Ronnie notice that Mike is being extra nice, and are wondering about his true intentions.

Read more below!

The house heads to Jenks the next day to hang out and have drinks. Mike ends up seeing a whole crew of guys that he knows, and invites them to hang out. Snooki thinks she may have a UTI, because she has been having some bladder control issues (which apparently can be relieved by tequila according to Dr. Snooki). While the rest of the house wants to go over to the batting cages, Mike wants to stay at Jenks and stays behind. Later, Snooki, Mike, and Deena end up getting in the same cab, and Mike (who is drunk) talks about his concerns, thinking that some people talk behind his back. Snooki thinks that Mike needs to hang out with them more, but also tells him to confront anybody that he thinks is talking about him.

Back at the house, Mike is still drunk, talking about him trying to be nice, sparking a household conversation. However, it's hard to take him seriously when his privates are out a little bit. Snooki is real and tells him that the house doesn't trust him (he is "crazy pants"). Mike asks the guys if he really did anything to piss him off, or if they have any issues with them, and of course, the boys don't say anything. However, the boys don't trust Mike either.

With all of this going on, Snooki brings out the bunny suit from last week, and ransacks the house. They also play "Warm Beer," which Snooki is the ultimate target of. It gives the house a well needed laugh.

The next day, Jenni's friend Dina comes over to fix Jenni and Snooki's hair. Snooki's dad Andy comes over. Mike runs into Roger on the boardwalk, who Jenni has been trying to call and call. Later, Mike tells Jenni, who gets really mad at Roger. He can spend all of his time on the boardwalk and at the beach, but can't pick up his phone?

Snooki goes to hang out with his dad on the boardwalk. Somehow, someway, Mike now believes that Snooki is the troublemaker. With all of the boys playing innocent like they have no problems with Mike, Mike thinks that Snooki was trying to start trouble by telling him to confront Now, he wants to retaliate on Snooki with the information about the alleged hookup. Sigh. It was only a matter of time before this came up again.

Next Jerzday, Mike calls up Unit to discuss the situation, while Jenni calls Roger and confronts him about not being a good boyfriend!

"Grand Opening, Grand Closing"-The Game S5, E5 (Recap)

2012-02-01T11:06:00.002-05:00

Definitely still had to give my recap of The Game. A little later than normal, because I couldn't watch it last night. I had to wait until my trusty online TV source uploaded it.

Picking up from last Game Day, we see Chardonnay and Jason go out on a date, and they both brought their own food. Of course, Chardonnay gets typical black person, yelling at the screen, and Jason starts acting up too. Jason actually likes her, and proposes that after the annulment, they start dating. Chardonnay refuses, saying that after the annulment they planned to go their separate ways, and that's still her intent.

Don Cornelius Reportedly Committed Suicide

2012-02-01T09:58:00.001-05:00

*Tear* According to TMZ, Don Cornelius, the creator and famous host of the hit show Soul Train (which ran from 1971-2006), was found dead in his Sherman Oaks, CA home this morning. Law enforcement sources tell TMZ it appears he committed suicide. Cops discovered the body at around 4 a.m PST.

Cornelius died from a gunshot wound to the head and officials believe the wound was self-inflicted. He was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. He was 75.

I would be lying if I said I was a regular viewer of Soul Train, and, of course, I didn't watch it when Mr. Cornelius was hosting. However, he is a legend, and to lose any legend is upsetting. But to lose a legend who felt the need to end his life himself is even sadder. Condolences to his family and friends. RIP!

Kim Kardashian's Ex-Publicist Jonathan Jaxson Speaks Out

2012-01-31T00:42:00.002-05:00

After getting slapped with a lawsuit from reporting that Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries' wedding was a publicity stunt, Kim's ex-publicist Jonathan Jaxson has spoken out on his website. He now says that it was simply his opinion, and that it was based on what he's done with her "in the past." He said that media outlets came to him, and ask him to speak about Kim and Kris. Sigh.

"Two weeks prior to her wedding she knew it was not something she wanted to do," he said in an interview on Good Day LA in November. "Unfortunately they were obligated to honour contracts [with the E! network which had TV rights] otherwise they would have owed a lot of people a lot of money." He also was quoted as saying that she was still in love with Reggie Bush at the time of the wedding.

(UPDATE: Jaxson found this post somehow, and tweeted me saying that he didn't say that she was in love with Reggie, and that his words were twisted).

Check out his response video below!

He also says that the lawsuit which TMZ was reported was for $200,000 is false and that the suit is being settled in arbitration. It's all a big jumbled mess.

I'm not the biggest Kim Kardashian fan, but I can't with this guy either. He's apparently struggling to take care of his handicapped brother and family, working on a medium income. He talks about how he attempted suicide from this, which is sad to hear. However, I have to say he brought this upon himself by opening his mouth in the first place to the different media outlets. And your opinion sir, especially in a matter that was as big as this, is not TRUTH. You had to know as a PR person yourself how people would construe your words, even if they were opinion. According to him, he never made any profit from the interviews he did. Right. So you mean to tell me, you put out business about KIM FREAKING KARDASHIAN, right around the time her divorce news was all over the media, and you got no money from it? That's believable. I'm sorry that you attempted suicide, but what did you expect would happen when you go up against the Kardashians? Really.

Who do you believe?

In The Spotlight: Taelor Lotus

2012-01-30T13:59:00.001-05:00

This post has been a long, long, LONG time coming, but finally I'm pleased to present a spotlight on upcoming clothing brand, Taelor Lotus! Had the opportunity to talk to one of the founders of the brand earlier this month. Check out more about Taelor Lotus after the jump!

Brian Obi, originally from Nigeria, and his business partner Akeem are both full time college seniors at Montclair State University. The duo has a strong sense of fashion, and decided to go into business together, starting their own clothing line.

The pair came up with the name Taelor Lotus for their brand. Lotus "symbolizes the lotus flower and how luxurious and respected it was in the Buddhist community," Brian explained his part of the name. Akeem came up with the first part of the name, Taelor, which symbolizes timeless fashion that can be worn throughout the years by anyone." Taelor Lotus will feature luxurious, affordable fashion pieces for consumers ("quality clothes for less of the price").

Brian developed his strong love and eye for fashion when he was a senior in high school. Getting his love from looking through various magazines, specifically GQ, the designer is influenced by hip hop's own Kanye West and Pharell. "I really look up to them," Brian said. He also notes André 3000 as a fashion influence as well.

Brian and Akeem actually do the designs themselves, and work with manufacturers to produce the clothing. Brian finished up the official logo for the brand last month.

Though not officially on the market, the clothing line's release is soon approaching, offering different styles of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and button down and polo shirts.

"We want to take it to a more exclusive level," Brian said of the line. "I see it progressing every day, every month, every year. We're constantly working on it. We want to grow the brand to a point where it will live through centuries."

You can check out more of Taelor Lotus on Facebook and Twitter. Definitely a brand to be on the lookout for!

"Walk Away"-Olivia (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

2012-01-30T13:20:00.001-05:00

Today, singer Olivia (also star of VH1's Love & Hip Hop) dropped her official video for her song "Walk Away." The video featured WPGC's own (a hit station around the DMV area) Herkules, who is GORGEOUS. However, the video sheds light on domestic abuse, with Herkules as the villain.

I'm not a huge fan of Olivia's. In fact, she has a LOT more work to do before she is anywhere near this "high level" of stardom that she proclaims to be at in her career. However, this video is a definite step in the right direction. It's a touching song, with a great video concept. So clap, clap bravo for her! Check out the video below!

What do you think of the vid? And can anyone tell me of Olivia's current label situation? Or is Rich still fronting the bill?

"Free Vinny"-Jersey Shore S5, E4 (Recap)

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Picking up from last Jerzday, Mike has taken off, leaving six people in the house. Danny comes in, which he never does, and reveals that he looking for new workers and new roommates (I think people forget that technically it's Danny's house, and he's renting it out to the roommates...well, MTV). The house is in shock, but Danny definitely ain't playing.

Read more below!

Mike pops back up, and reveals that he's upset about nobody seeming to do anything for his birthday, and that's why he stormed off. Little does he know that the house is planning a surprise birthday party for him and Pauly. For the party, the girls have arranged strippers and the strippers' pimp is rawther creepy (*Eloise voice*). Deena and Sam call Vinny and invite him to come to Mike and Pauly's surprise birthday, but he declines, which sucks.

At the Shore Store, Pauly, Deena, and Snooki do great at work to impress Danny and hopefully change his mind about bringing in new roommates. The next day, Jenni shows up to work on time, while Ronnie and Mike, of course, don't. Danny literally puts up a help wanted sign, and people come flocking in asking about the position. Jenni rips down the sign, and Danny makes her put up a new one. He is DEAD SERIOUS. And the roommates make it clear that they don't want to have to deal with new people, especially since they've been doing this for five seasons.

The Meatballs go to a Party Lane (wannabe Party City??) to buy decorations for the surprise party, and buys a bunny suit! Why? Because they can and they're awesome!

Later, the house heads to Karma for what Mike and Pauly think is a regular Thursday night at Karma, and are surpised by family and friends. Then comes wheelchairs and out come the strippers. Pauly and Mike both pick up chicks (Mike, of course, takes the stripper home). And not saying that even a stripper shouldn't have standards (no diss to those out there), but for a stripper (no diss to strippers) and a DTF chick, the girl had the nerve to complain about Mike not giving her matching socks. GIRL. You must not know. I guess Mike put her in her place the next morning when he called the taxi for her, and told she had 1 minute to wait, and closed the door on her haha! He didn't even remember her name! I think they rarely do.

That night, Snooki stays home with Jionni while the crew goes out to Bamboo. Randomly, Sam gets into a fight, after a girl yanks her hair, and gets kicked out. So the rest of the house comes home. The next day, everybody is kind of in a funk, mainly thinking about Vinny. So Pauly suggests they go get him from Staten Island. They barge into Vinny's house, and get him to come back. Which I'm sooooo happy about. Vinny got FINE over the past year or so, at least to me! And he looked better. Got a fresh cut, his abs were looking nice, and he even got a new tat ("Let go, Let God") on his upper chest. HOT! Now the house is complete again, and everyone's happy. Hopefully Vinny will be all right and make it through the rest of the season.

Next Jerzday: The bunny attacks. Mike is being nice, a little too nice if you ask Ronnie. Of course, Mike calls up a mysterious person to "reveal some information." A.k.a. the Snooki/Mike alleged hookup. *Rolls eyes*

"The Black People Episode"-The Game S5, E4 (Recap)

2012-01-25T09:28:00.001-05:00

No I'm not kidding. That really is the name of the episode. I checked!

As always, the episode went by way too fast, but I said I was no longer going to go in as hard on the show, because there's really no point. As I said on last episode's recap, the show is what it is.

It's time for the annual Sunbeam Fashion Show (which apparently has been going on for six years, though I don't remember), which Tasha always has been in charge of. She enlists the help of one Linnethia "NeNe" Leakes (first Glee, now The Game! Go NeNe!) NeNe presents "Volumptuous," which is a thoughful yet tacky line for plus size women. Definitely wasn't feeling the clothes. However, most of the ladies side with Tasha, though Melanie isn't feeling the line herself.

Read more below!

Meanwhile, Derwin and Malik still have beef, because Malik is bitter behind getting benched because of his affair with the Sabers' owner's wife (details that if you don't know, you honestly need to recap). Derwin later tries to reach out to a new teammate Kwan, who I believe is the new QB, and invites him to hang out with the team after a game. However, Kwan declines.

Later, Chardonnay and Jason go out with some of Chardonnay's black friends (one of whom was played by Kel Mitchell. Where you been?!). Slowly but surely, Jason begins to accept his "brotherhood." However, the group brings up racism in this country, which cause Jason to be suspicious of those around him.

Next, we hear that Melanie is in vitro and this other girl Sunbeam (I forgot her name) comes in and presents a new idea for the fashion show, designed by British (by way of Alabama) fashion designer, Mr. Donatella Sweet Scott. He presents "Cornucopia"and the outfits are fabulous! The fashion show is in definite need of some revamping. However, when put to a vote, Tasha's show won a majority of the votes.

In the next scene, Jason and a white guy are walking out of a sporting goods store, when the detector goes off. When a cashier lets the white man go, adamant that it was Jason's bag that went off, Jason brings up the issue of race, since he's starting to look for it now after his conversation with Chardonnay and her friends. Come to find out that his cashier was new, and has been leaving on security tags all day, so that's why the cashier knew it was his bag that went off. In the parking lot, he almost gets hit by a driver, and the driver says something along the lines of "Calm down Blacky, I could've hit you." I'm not in total love with the racism storyline (I would go into detail but this would make an already long recap even longer). However, it's a good fit for Jason, because I don't think he has ever fully accepted the fact that he's black. So to see him hang out with his own and learn from them is cool to watch.

Later when Derwin approaches Kwan again to bond with the team, Kwan makes it clear that he's only here to win a championship. Being friends doesn't matter. Which sucks for Derwin, because he is all about team unity and friendship and what not.

Jason drowns his sorrows of dealing with that racist at Chardonnay's bar, where he admits he's confused over when something is racist or not. Chardonnay calms him down, and Jason sneaks in a little kiss. Cute. I think Chardonnay really balances Jason out. Even if and when they do get their marriage annulled, they still make a good couple.

Later, Tasha goes on about her plans for the fashion show, even incorporating 1/2 of Jodeci--JoJo and Mr. Dalvin. However, Melanie decides to enact her authority and take over the fashion show. Of course, Tasha went IN on her, and said basically how Melanie won't ever bring her down, she can't be as successful as Tasha, blah blah blah. When, in reality, Tasha is lashing out STILL because she is upset at losing Derwin (who has become quite the star wide receiver/endorsement winner) as a client, while her son/actual client Malik is sitting on the sidelines.

As always, I'll be watching next Game Day!

Aretha Franklin Calls Off Her Wedding

2012-01-23T15:42:00.002-05:00

Seems things were a little too rush. Just a few short weeks after announcing their engagement, the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin and her fiance William 'Willie' Wilkerson have called off their wedding, which was supposed to take place this summer. According to PEOPLE, Aretha released a statement today:

"Regretfully, To Our Friends and Supporters: Will and I have decided we were moving a little too fast, and there were a number of things that had not been thought through thoroughly," she said. "There will be no wedding at this time. We will not comment on it any further because of the very personal and sensitive nature of it. We appreciate all of the many well wishes from friends." The statement was signed "Aretha and Will."

This is not necessarily saying that they're over, or that there will never be a wedding. Sometimes, people jump into things a little too fast. And yeah, Aretha's pushing 70, but yet and still, you don't want to have to go through any messy proceedings over a rushed marriage. Besides, so many celeb relationships are failing now a days, it makes me wonder who's next on the block. Here's hoping everything goes well with them.

"Dropping Like Flies"-Jersey Shore S5, E3 (Recap)

2012-01-20T09:38:00.002-05:00

Another Friday, another Jersey Shore recap! Picking up from last Jerzday, Vinny has officially left the house for good, leaving Pauly and the rest of the house to deal with the aftermath. Pauly tells everybody at the club, causing everyone to get a little upset, especially Deena who has a mini breakdown in the bathroom.

In spite of the situation, the crew continues to party (with Pauly even bringing a girl home to "get it in for Vinny."). Meanwhile Vinny gets home to Staten Island and is welcomed by his family.

Read the rest below!

This week is both Pauly and Mike's birthdays, so the house preps for that. A little later on, Snooki and Deena have a "Meatball Day" and get MESSED UP on the boardwalk! As only Team Meatball could! The day ends bad for Deena when she comes home and all of her hair and hair extensions are in mysterious knots. She gets it together though.

Later when the crew goes out, so many things are in honor of Vinny (Ronnie wearing skinny jeans, Pauly getting yet another DTF chick). Mike's friend Unit comes around again, and Mike talks about how he's the key witness to Snooki and Mike's hookup (which I am BEYOND tired of hearing about). A random fight breaks out, right when Unit and Mike plan to approach Snooki, but Unit gets kicked out

The house calls Vinny to talk, and Vinny is doing a lot better at home. If he will ever come back to the Shore, I don't know, but I'm sure the house was glad to hear his voice. Later, the crew goes out to Aztec, where Mike sees this Bosnia girl that he met at the Shore Store and Paula, who he hooks up with on the regular. Seeing as it's Pauly's 31st birthday (yeah he and Mike are both in their 30s), Mike introduces Bosnia to Pauly, so Mike can take Paula home. Pauly takes Bosnia home, but ends up calling her a cab since Bosnia doesn't want to get it in, but she later comes back and wants to hang out with Mike. Since Mike has Paula, he sends her home nicely. Mike and Paula could eventually be in a relationship.

The next day, Pauly's family comes to surprise him for his birthday, and go out to family dinner to Rivoli's. Mike is upset and jealous since his family's not around. Later, the girls have made Pauly a birthday cake, but Mike feels left out. I thought that the girls were planning something for both Mike and Pauly, but not that day. Mike has a breakdown and walks out of the house, alienating himself from the rest of the crew. Are we down to six?

Next Jerzday: Danny comes by to discuss the possibility of new roommates, while Pauly has yet another surprise party, and Sam gets into a random bar fight. The house goes to Staten Island to kidnap Vinny, but get no answer....Hmm. Until next Jerzday!

"No Money, Mo Problems"-The Game S5, E3 (Recap)

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

Even though I was highly disappointed last week, Tuesday is STILL Game Day. (P.S. If you're wondering why the recap says episode 3, it's because the premiere episode was really two episodes shown in one night. The Game only runs for a half hour). I know I really blasted the season 5 premiere, but, of course I had to keep watching as a loyal fan, and for the sake of these recaps.
Check out my recap below!

At the beginning of the episode, Tasha proposes that Malik go to a bar mitzvah to earn some easy money. Malik, as we later see, is in some serious debt, though he does not realize at the time. He accepts.

Meanwhile, Derwin secures a Verizon endorsement deal under Irv, who Derwin has rehired as his manager after Irv dropped him as a client. Melanie, however, felt insulted since she was not consulted, and wants to be a part of the decision making in this "Derwin Davis" legacy, even suggesting that she possibly take over as his manager. Derwin, however, decides to put her as "Irv's overseer," really just to keep peace. However, Melanie takes the role to heart and tries to really overstep the bounds with Irv. I have to say it was cool to see Irv back. While even his role wasn't as hilarious like it used to be (actors can only serve what the writers dish out), he's still a funny character. Irv, of course, doesn't take Melanie's ideas seriously, coughing while she makes proposals and asking her to fetch him water and snacks. Meanwhile, it comes to light that Tasha is planning to sue Irv and Derwin for her original 10% cut on the Verizon deal, since she initiated it in the first place.

Back at his mansion, Malik's accountant reveals that Malik is dead broke. Though he signed an $80 million deal with the Sabers, half of that went to taxes, and apparently, he spent the rest building that unnecessary mansion (There's what? FOUR people living there?). The accountant cuts Malik down to $25,000 a month, which Malik almost has a heart attack on. In my mind, I'm like there are some people who don't even make that in a year, but okay. I guess when you're rich like that, $25 K is like $200. I would love to get there one day. Malik goes even crazier when he realizes that his cars (his "babies" as he calls them) have to be sold to get himself back in the clear a bit. As Malik's cars get towed away, we see that Tee Tee (who is really smarter than I think audiences give him credit for), has actually invested in stock, and pulls up in a brand new car. It's his birthday, and Malik, refusing to listen to his accountant, takes it upon himself to throw Tee Tee a birthday bash.

Later, Irv meets Tasha in court. Going against Irv, Melanie tags along, and puts her own two cents in on Tasha's lawsuit, offering an amount to Tasha to cease and desist. The deal on the paper wasn't satisfactory to Tasha, who rolls up a blunt with it, and literally smokes it! Tasha kept records of calls and transcripts, even a text from Melanie herself, that proves Tasha was the one who negotiated the original deal. The judge awards her with her original 10% of all earnings from the deal. Obviously still bitter about being fired, Tasha hits WAY below the belt telling Melanie to go home and cook Derwin a meal, and have a baby, and then says "Oh wait, you can't do either."

Malik throws a party for Tee Tee knowing he's broke. Singer Estelle shows up, and apparently it's customary to send a bottle to female celebrities when you see them? So Malik says. Guess I don't know all the rules of my beloved industry! Tasha later comes in, paying the bill on the party, asking Malik why he has to be the stereotype (being the black male celebrity-athlete figure who always want to shell out money, even if he doesn't have it).

Derwin gives Melanie the cold shoulder after Melanie messes up the deal for them. Derwin tells her that he told Irv to humor her with this "CEO" position, and that he does the real work in the "legacy." Of course, Melanie is insulted, but they later make up (Derwin is such a smooth talker. Plus he's gorgeous! Sweet talk me ANY day!). However, I can see Melanie's role as only homemaker causing a serious problem in their relationship later on down the road. Mainly because I think that Melanie is starting to become tired of it. She was never really the homemaker type, with her being in med school and all. She had dreams and goals, and now her actually serving as a doctor is being put on hold. I mean, let's be honest, she can't cook, she obviously can't negotiate deals. With the Sabers being in offseason right now, she's not really doing anything as prez of the Sunbeams. And, sad to say, she's not a mommy right now. She has nothing really to do, and I think it's boring her, which is going to cause more and more resentment towards Derwin's career later on down the road. That being said, if she introduces herself as DOCTOR Melanie Barnett-Davis one more time! GIRL. When's the last time we've seen you in a lab coat with a stethoscope on your neck? Ok, then. Either get down to a hospital, or stop doing that!

The episode was merely average, but made more sense than last week's crazy soap opera premiere. Tonight, I realized that I have to take the show for what it is, realizing that Kelsey Grammer and his team are no longer on this project, so the writing is not going to be the same. Sucks, but what can you do? Hopefully, as the football season approaches, we'll see more relevance of The Game to these characters' lives again. And a little more comedy (though I have to say, I chuckled quite a few times this episode! Upgrade!).

"One Man Down"-Jersey Shore S5, E2 (RECAP)

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

Another Jerzday gone, another Friday recap!

Picking up from last week's premiere episode, this episode centers mostly around Vinny. Vinny is still seriously considering leaving the house. He misses home, and doesn't think he can hang at the Shore much longer. I think if they had more of a break between filming season 4 in Italy and filming this season, he maybe would have been okay, if he had a little time to spend with his family. However, they went straight from Italy to Jersey, and began the new season, which had to be hard for him.

Read more below!
Jionni pops up at the house again after a night out, and he and Mike cook together. It's like they're becoming best friends or something! And you KNOW that Snooki is not feeling that. She heads up to bed in a bit of a huff, probably knowing that Jionni would go after her, and stay away from Mike. I know that this entire Snooki-Mike-Jionni drama is far from over, but I wish it would be already! Mike, nobody cares if you and Snooki hooked up. The excitement behind that drama came and went.

After arriving late to his shift at the Shore Store, Vinny reveals to boss Danny that he has clinical anxiety, and says he has had it since he was 16. The anxiety is a good part of the reason why Vinny's been a little depressed. I'm not sure if anyone in the house really knows about this. I know that's the first time the viewers are hearing anything about it. Anxiety is very much a real condition, and can really take its toll on a person. Later, Vinny, Pauly and Mike go out for a guy's day to boost Vinny's spirits up, a little guy's day. They go out for manicures and pedicures at a local nail shop. Guys, I know that it may seem a bit on the feminine side to do that, but yall need to keep yourselves up too! At the nail shop the other day, I saw a man bring his ENTIRE family there for pedicures and manicures! It's perfectly fine, just so you know.

Later, the gang goes out for their first night at Karma for the summer Of course, Snooki is typical Snooki and gets wasted, and Jionni gets upset again, and makes her leave with him. Even I am beginning to think that Snooki needs to tone it down. Nothing wrong with having a drink or two, and getting a little faded, but being a sloppy drunk is NEVER cute! Sloppy drunks get laughed at, and

At the end of the night, Pauly brings over a DTF chick, and they get it in really quick. What I didn't know that they made them leave RIGHT AFTER! It was 4 in the morning, and Pauly hits the duck phone, calling a cab for this girl. Well, you get what you ask for, I guess. While Pauly is making the call, the girl takes Pauly's favorite chain, which he awesomely left on the floor, and stuffs it in her shorts. The next morning, after Pauly has spent all day looking for it, the girl came back with it on.She either took it to be able to come back and talk to him, or went home and took pics with it to say, "I screwed Pauly D AND got his chain!" Basic chicks will do either. This lead Pauly to come to this conclusion: "Whenever a girl leaves the house, I'm going to hug her and pat her down at the same time!" Yup!

As the episode goes on, Vinny becomes more and more depressed. As everyone leaves to go out to Karma again, Pauly stays behind to talk to him. However, Vinny calls his sister, and lets her know that he's ready to leave. His anxiety is too much to take being at the Shore right now. Pauly, of course, tries to talk him out it, but Vin's mind is made up. I know it was hard for Pauly to see Vinny go, but he knew that Vinny had to do what was best for him, and helped him pack. It's sad to see Vinny go, especially because he officially became my Jersey Shore crush, and I love his character. However, he needed to do what was best for him. The house won't be the same without him though.

Next Jerzday: The rest of the house deals with Vinny going home, and the crew celebrates Pauly's birthday, completely ignoring the fact that it's Mike's birthday as well, which creates a real bad and hurtful situation for the Situation!

Halle Berry Gets Engaged!

2012-01-11T10:53:00.002-05:00

Halle Berry and boyfriend Olivier Martinez have officially gotten engaged, according to Us Weekly (all of these celeb engagements lately!) Olivier apparently proposed over the holidays with an emerald-and-diamond ring.

Now, Halle has been married twice before. She also has a 3-year-old daughter, Nahla, with ex-boyfriend Gabriel Aubry (who she dated nearly five years before their split in April 2010.) She wed former baseball player David Justice in 1993 and divorced four years later. She then married R&B singer Eric Benet in 2001, only to separate in 2003 and finalize their divorce in 2005.

Halle met Olivier, who is a French actor, while working on the film Dark Tide. They first stepped out as a couple in fall 2010. A source told the mag, she "had given up on being married, but she trusts Olivier. He makes her feel safe. He's a keeper!"

Congrats to Halle and Olivier! Wishing you a successful marriage!

The Game Season 5 Premiere (Review) "Skeletons/The Truth Pact"

2012-01-11T08:43:00.001-05:00

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

Already taking on recaps of Jersey Shore (Season 5 premiered last Thursday). I want to start doing more recaps, mainly because Spotlight is the only chance I get to release EVERYTHING I feel about these shows (other than through tweets). So I decided to recap The Game, which is in its 5th season as well.

I was so excited for this upcoming season, because I have been a big fan of The Game since its debut in 2006 on the CW. With its return to TV on BET, I was grateful to BET for bringing it back last year after the show's cancellation in 2009. I even did a review on the Season 4 premiere, and was glad to see it back for another season.

This recap....I really, REALLY go in. As I said, I'm a longtime fan, and this episode needs some serious critique. This isn't a diss to any of the actors, but mainly to the writers. I have to be real. I wasn't impressed at all. It's a long one, because I have a lot to say (when do I not?). Check out my recap after the jump.

The beginning was packed with drama right from the beginning. Melanie was yelling at Derwin about her abortion. Jenna (who I honestly thought was Meagan Good's character for a minute) was laying on the ground half dead. And Jason was in Mexico married? All of this was confusing, until you realize that this all happened 12 hours later, and then the show goes in on everything that happened before these points.

12 hours earlier...Derwin and Melanie is dealing with Melanie's abortion which might have led to infertility. McHottie pops up and starts talking with Mel, and, of course, Derwin feels upset behind it because Mel and McHottie used to mess around. From here, I saw that BET was going to overdo it with that laughing track. I told one of my followers that the laughing track was hit on every single one of McHottie's corny jokes, and I didn't laugh not ONCE!

Switch scene to Jason. He wakes up with some new chick Gloria ( played by Selita Eubanks), who is his "press conference smash buddy." She invites him to a wedding, which he doesn't want to go to. That gets a conversation started about Jason's insecurity with being black and being with black women. Yawn. Jenna ends up on Malik's doorstep and she is on drugs again...a true hot mess. However, Malik, because he is obviously still in love with her, steps up and tries to take care of her. That was nice to see, because if you've seen Malik in previous seasons, he's never been in love with a girl like this.

Tasha dropped Derwin and took Malik back on as a client, which you can see she regrets. And that's her entire story line. "Family first, family first," she continues to say to herself as she sees Malik taking care of Jenna. I think her worry is, as a manager, that her client is worrying too much about this girl rather than his own career. As a mom, you want to support your son, but as a manager, you want to take on clients who are going to be focused on their careers, and make money (so you yourself can make money!). Tee Tee breaks it down to Tasha and tells her that she should make the best decision for herself. The better decision would be to go back to Derwin, since he's blowing up right now. At the end, Malik plans to take Jenna back to rehab, with Tasha telling Malik not to make her regret choosing him.

Jason meets Chardonnay (Brandy) who is a sassy bartender who Jason starts trouble with.They end up getting into it at the bar, mainly because Jason feels entitled since he's a football player. A little while later, Brittany (who is still played by this new grown-looking girl, but I've let that go) is seen kissing a white boy, which Jason sees as well, and that sparks a mini discussion in interracial dating. Later, we see that the argument between the two resulted in Chardonnay getting fired. However, later she still ends up going to dinner with him. They both end up drunk, and go to Mexico and get married?! Completely random! Chardonnay breaks into Jason's shell a bit, confronting him for not wanting black women, and says that he's embarrassed of being black. Black women rejected him, because it seemed like he wasn't "black enough" for them, so he turned to white women who accepted him as he was. He realizes that that is why he is insecure with being black and dating black women. I would start about how that is definitely BET trying to say on the sly that black men should be with black women, but I'll let that go because this review is already long enough.

The most interesting story line for me was Derwin and Melanie's, in dealing with this abortion. Though I just want Melanie to get pregnant already, so we can stop focusing on her jealousy of Janay having Derwin's first child, it's still a real story line. Derwin apologizes for his role in Melanie's abortion, which he believes was after freshman year during college. He admits that he should have been by her side, but decided to pretend like nothing happened to continue living his dream. Only for Melanie to later tell him that Derwin's rival Trey Wiggs (who she fooled around with in season 2 when Melanie and Derwin broke up), was the father of the baby. She didn't have that abortion in college, but really on the sly in season 2, using Tasha's money to do so. That was the true shocker of the episode! Coincidentally, the couple saw Trey and his family out one day, and invited them to D.J.'s third birthday party. Trey shows up with a gift for D.J. without his family, and Derwin knocks him out in the driveway! To be honest, I was done with the show by that point, so I wasn't even jumping up and down on that one. That "big moment" was overshadowed anyway (to me personally) by the fact that Wale's "Triumph" came on right after Trey hit the pavement. Yall know how much I love him!

Now. I NEVER want to sound ungrateful for this show coming back, because, like I said at the beginning, long-standing fan here! I love the cast, and am happy that it's back on! Or at least I was. BET, I'm very, VERY disappointed. You all turned a funny black sitcom into a wack fast-paced soap opera. It used to be focused on the lives of football players and their wives/girlfriends, and the impact that the game had on their lives. Now, it's just a terrible, terrible mess. I give this episode a D. That's no diss to the actors, because they did very well with what they were given, but the writing was terrible. It was extremely busy for one premiere episode. There should have been a main storyline (perhaps Melanie and Derwin) and a secondary storyline (with Brandy and Jason, but NOT with them ending up married in Mexico)! The writing was very random and sloppy.

This is where I have to branch off a bit. I'm a huge fan of Necole Bitchie, and so, of course, I'm a fan of her Facebook page. She asked her audience how did they feel about the show, and everybody went in. Many said they liked it, a good majority said that they didn't. I, of course, had to say my piece, and checked in to see how people weighed in, when I saw this comment:

"It seems like a good majority of people come out to say that they do not like the game. It was
better on the CW. ETC... But most of you will never accept anything black...movies, shows,
etc... Yall dislike black stuff before you even see it...if you take offense to this comment, I am
talking about you..."

I didn't take offense, but I let this viewer know that this had absolutely NOTHING to do with it being a black show or being on a black network. If anything, that's why black folks in particular should support other black shows, because there are very few out there. As a culture for some reason, we sometimes tend to have that "crab in a barrel" mentality. I gave BET's Let's Stay Together a chance for the very reason that there aren't many black sitcoms out, and we should support each other. However, I can't, as a true fan, say that tonight was a great episode. It wasn't. While the actors did well with what they were given, the writing was terrible. And this writing will ALWAYS be in comparison to The Game's time on the CW, because that's why people wanted it back in the first place.

In the comments, people went on to say that network execs read these comments, and negative comments could be a key factor in determining cancellation. And that may be so. However, telling writers everything is okay when there are clear issues doesn't do the show any good, either. Some complaints on the show may be a little petty, but many are constructive critiques if BET actually listened. Just because it's on the air (which I am grateful for), doesn't mean fans should get complacent and accept any old thing given. Randomly having a drunk Jason and Chardonnay to Mexico to get married was sloppy. Having Malik prance around with Jenna half dead for the entire episode was sloppy. While I appreciate the abortion storyline, focusing on Melanie's jealousy of Janay is getting a little old. And everything was thrown out at once, and was way too fast paced. Focus on one main storyline, with another on the side. THIS IS ALL CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM OUT OF MY LOVE FOR THE SHOW!

If you thought that was a great episode, I'm truly convinced that you had to have just started watching either last night or last season when it premiered on BET. The writing on the CW was completely different that BET is giving. I don't know who left the writing team or who's on now, but this soap opera drama is not working for me. And, of course, I don't expect the show to be completely like it was on the CW, but it's completely changed format. It doesn't even seem to be about the game anymore. I miss the comedy. I miss the reality of football affecting the relationships and families on the show. I'm BEYOND tired of baby mama drama! I don't want to downplay the entire season, because we haven't seen it yet. However, BET, if this is all you have to offer me for the next 4 months or so (the season was renewed for 22 episodes this time around), I'd rather you cut it now. Of course, this was just the premiere, so we'll see how things go throughout the season.

We can all agree to disagree, but I would love input! What was your honest opinion of The Game? And should I switch to video recaps? I know these written ones get a little long!!!

"Fame"-Amber Rose Feat. Wiz Khalifa (SONG)

2012-01-10T09:06:00.001-05:00

Amber Rose is branching away from her model/socialite status, and breaking into music! Her long-awaited single, "Fame," featuring boyfriend rapper Wiz Khalifa, has officially dropped exclusively on PerezHilton.com.

"I'm so excited to release my first song... It's CRAZY!" Amber said of the song. "Working with Wiz is a dream come true. I am fortunate to have his support."

She continued to explain the concept behind the track. "This is a very personal song to me that I wanted to record for my fans," she said. "I want people to see the world from my eyes, you know, from BEHIND MY SHADES! It's my interpretation of what it means to be 'FAMOUS,' which is not something superficial but instead being self-confident and happy with who you are."

Listen to the song below!

It's a decent song. If the beat was a little harder, I could see it being played in the club. It's not a #1 hit (well, maybe the Rosebuds might take it there), but it's cute. Though Amber's voice is EXACTLY like Cassie's, she has more fans than Cassie, so she might actually pull off a career. MAYBE. It was rather smart to have it premiere on Perez's site though...he gets mad hits!

Side note: It just hit me this morning that Amber's confession of Kim Kardashian hooking up with Kanye West while he and Amber were together CONVENIENTLY came right before this single dropped. Hmm. But I like Amber, so I'm going to let that go.

What do you think of the single?

Jay-Z Releases "Glory" In Honor of New Daughter Blue

2012-01-09T14:20:00.000-05:00

"You're my child of a child from Destiny's Child..."

Jay-Z just released a song in honor of the newest addition to the Knowles/Carter clan, Blue Ivy Carter (and yes, that's her name...he shouts her out on the track). He then proceeds to talk about how amazing it is to have her here.

He even goes deeper, revealed that Blue was conceived in Paris, right before Beyoncé started recording for 4! He also let the world know that the couple suffered a miscarriage a while back, so they were worried about this child a bit ("Last time the miscarriage was so tragic/We was afraid you'd disappear/But nah baby you magic."). Definitely a beautiful song, and it's great that Jay decided to share his and Bey's story. Music is a powerful art.

And yes, you can hear Blue on the song! Two days old, and she's featured on a track! Granted, it's only her crying, but she's breaking records already and she's just out the womb! Go Blue!

Listen to the song below!

Beyoncé Gives Birth!!!

2012-01-08T02:15:00.002-05:00

Yes, finally! And finally from news sources I trust! Contrary to a certain psychic, Beyoncé has indeed given birth to a healthy baby girl, her hometown paper tonight (Jan. 7), The Houston Chronicle, reports! E! Online went on to report the baby's name: Blue Ivy Carter (No Brooklyn, Jaylin, or anything!)

Though Bey and Jay have yet to confirm, other stars have already congratulated them (of course, through tweets!). Russell Simmons tweeted the new parents: "congrats to my good friends Beyonce and Jay-Z." Rihanna welcomed Princess Blue, tweeting: "Welcome to the world princess Carter! Love Aunty Rih." Little Ivy has already made records (pretty sure she's the first celeb baby to be the #1 TT on Twitter...well, maybe not, but unless yall think of any, I'm claiming it).

As a fan, I'm so excited for them!!! I know that they will make great parents (Bey and Jay love sister Solange's son Julez to death!). Gotta admit though, as a blogger, I'm excited that it's over. No more baby watch!!!! Congrats to Beyoncé and Jay-Z and their families!

"S.M.F.U. (Save Me From You)"-Dawn Richard (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

2012-01-06T13:11:00.001-05:00

"It's a mystery how no one's figured you out."

I don't profess to be the biggest Dawn Richard fan, but the girl is very talented! Check out the video for her newest single, "S.M.F.U. (Save Me From You)" below!

"S.M.F.U." is the first single from Dawn's upcoming album Goldenheart, which will be the first in a trilogy of albums that Dawn has planned for release. The song itself has a cool concept of a man being a superhero, but coming to his girl's rescue last.

Dawn has always been great at songwriting and singing ballads, so I'm glad that she's branching beyond Diddy-Dirty Money, and doing her solo thing (which I thought she would be doing all along, but....well, yeah). I'll definitely support her when the album comes out! (Via Necole Bitchie)