Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair

I’ve enjoyed Cantu products in the past — check my 2008 review here! I’ve always seen Cantu as a good drugstore option for bellas on a budget looking to give their hair moisture and life. Now the brand has expanded to include products specifically for natural textures. The new Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair line is awesome AND affordable! I’ve tried several of the products from the new line, and I really like the Coconut Curling Cream. And the Coconut Milk Shine & Hold Mist is what my hair never knew it needed! Water, glycerine, shea, aloe vera, jojoba, coconut oil and milk. My hair is drinking this stuff UP. Their site is under renovation so I’d advise you visit your local Walmart or Walgreens if you want to check them out in person.

Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave In Conditioner

Full disclosure: years ago I tried a few Ouidad products and they didn’t work for my particular texture. I know the product line is super popular with many curly ladies, but I assumed that their products weren’t formulated with my grade of coarseness in mind, all based on this one experience I had several years ago. Then I was sent some new Ouidad products, intended for kinky hair. I got the Climate Control defrizzing shampoo and conditioner, the heat and humidity gel, and the product I’m loving the most of the bunch, the Moisture Lock Leave In Conditioner. I like it after I’ve emerged from the shower with damp, detangled hair. Ingredients include castor oil, green tea extract, and prickly pear cactus extract to draw moisture from the air. And have you seen Jill Scott’s self-directed video for Blessed?

She makes me want to try that Botanical Boost refreshing spray!

CLEAR Ultra Shea Scalp and Hair Beauty Therapy.

Is America ready for another mass market hair product? It better be, cause Clear is now here! Already insanely popular in 42 countries, now Clear is making its American debut — check out the New York Times story about it. Expect to see Heidi Klum vamping all over your magazine pages and in-store displays! And while you’re checking out those packages and making the mental assumption, “these products aren’t for my texture,” it turns out you’d be wrong. Clear also has a product line dedicated to multi-textured African American hair, and it’s not about tackling texture – it’s about hair HEALTH for a change. A refreshing change, I might add!

When Clear’s spokesperson, the handsome and lovely celebrity hairstylist Oscar James came to Chicago recently, we met up and he shared a little about the brand. “Women are spending all this money on skincare for the eye and the neck….why not the scalp? Moisture is the key to maintaining your hair’s health. You need to nourish your scalp with moisture,” he said. And he’s right! I really like these products so far! The product is intended to work for relaxed AND natural hair, so if you’ve been looking for a gentle cleansing shampoo that will leave your hair feeling soft and not stripped, check out the Clear Facebook page at Facebook.com/ClearUltraShea. And BTW, Oscar James is a TOTAL SWEETHEART — click here to follow him on Twitter! Love him!

Ojon Rare Blend Oil Total Hair Therapy

Ojon is one of my favorite hair luxuries, and it’s been a beloved part of my Sunday afternoon beauty ritual in years past. That jar of Restorative Hair Treatment is the way, the truth and the light for my tresses! And now Ojon’s released a NEW hair therapy treatment. I cannot WAIT to get my hands on Ojon Rare Blend Oil Total Hair Therapy. Natural oils infused into “3 hair-reparative phases: Amber, Crystal and Red.” That includes ojon oil from Central America, Rouge Oleifera extract from the fruit that surrounds the Ojon nuts, plus Tahitian Monoi oil, marula oil, Kalahari melon oil, Kuikui oil, and Ximenia oil. Wowza. Intended for sealing hair cuticles, and locking in moisture for coarse, dry hair, it can be used as a styling oil for shine on dry hair, or to protect damp hair from the elements or heat damage. Relaxed and natural bellas, keep an eye out for this hotness. I’ll have to do a full review once I’ve tried it myself!

Carol’s Daughter Transitioning 1-2-3.

I’m sure by now you know that Carol’s Daughter has devoted themselves to transitioning haircare — there’s the Transitioning Movement website (which many of my blog buddies are contributing to)! And there are also Carol’s Daughter transitioning products, dedicated to helping new naturals gain stronger, thicker, healthier hair. For new newbies there’s the Transitioning 1-2-3 set, which contains a low-lather cleanser, scalp spray, and anti-breakage treatment. Ingredients include biotin to assist in hair growth. I transtioned a decade ago so I can’t truly speak to the products in that regard, but I do love the idea of the scalp spray — like an astringent for your scalp! This will be glorious in the summer months, I tell you!

Wen Re-Moist Intensive Hair Treatment

Today I’ve got a photoshoot in a couple of hours. Yesterday my hair was crispy and crunchy and tangled with a whole bunch of fairy knots at the end. Today my hair is moisturized, detangled, and scented with lovely lavender. What did I do? I used the Wen Re-Moist Intensive Hair Treatment overnight and put my good ol’ stocking over it to keep it in place while I slept. This morning I washed it with regular Wen cleansing conditioner and detangled it all thoroughly. Right now my hair is SOFT, detangled, shiny, and happy. I love the Wen haircare system, especially the Fig Cleansing Conditioner.

CurlBOX.

If you’re looking to try a variety of new natural hair products at once, I can’t recommend curlBOX enough! The packaging is exquisite, and different brands are included every month. For me it’s extra awesome cause most of the items come in travel friendly sizes, and my summer travel schedule is kicking into overdrive soon, so you know my curlBOX goodies will be in tow! You can click here to follow them on Twitter for the latest scoop, and you can click here to sign up. (Image via the curlBOX crew!)

Those are my latest hair discoveries! See anything you want, need, or MUST try? Tell me which you’re most intrigued by! And if you’ve tried anything new and amazing recently, tell a bella!

Erika of A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss will be joining me at Blogging While Brown in Philadelphia!!

YAY ERIKA!

Why did Eden choose this particular blogger? Here’s their official statement:

After reviewing an impressive list of entries, EDEN BodyWorks chose Erika Nicole Kendall of A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss for the @Afrobella + @BWBConference scholarship giveaway! In addition to its demonstrated commitment to fresh, high quality content, A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss shares EDEN BodyWorks’ mission of celebrating beauty from the inside out through healthy lifestyle choices.

From the entire EDEN BodyWorks team, we look forward to witnessing the impact of your experience at Blogging While Brown as a result of the scholarship. Congratulations, Erika! Can’t wait to see you in Philly!

Click here to check out Erika’s amazing blog, A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss. And click here to follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

Blogging While Brown is this upcoming weekend and the event schedule is OFF THE CHAIN! Click here to check out their schedule, their Facebook and their Twitter.

And last but not least, thank ALL of you amazing bloggers for entering and thank you, Eden BODYWorks for sponsoring this amazing scholarship! Click here to visit Eden’s official site, and click here for their Facebook and Twitter.

I asked the good folks at Cara B to judge the winner of their contest because I had such a hard time choosing, and the gift basket officially goes to Deborah. What was her response?

First and foremost I make sure to hug my son everyday. My biggest worry when he was born was how can I take care of a new baby now that I’m in a wheelchair? God let me know that I could do it with my family’s love and support. I drove him where he needed to go when he was young and I recently bought him a bicycle so that he can exercise regularly. We changed our S.A.D. to one of a mostly raw and vegan diet- he eats meat when he’s away from home but hey no fast food at home. We cut out soda and drink mostly water and we juice regularly and when I realized that a particular religion was stunting his growth emotionally we left and now he’s thriving in a better spiritual environment. He receives a regular allowance so he can learn how to save for the things he wants and to be fiscally responsible. The greatest thing I continue to do to show love for my son is to love myself and when I make a mistake be quick to apologize. Thank you for this opportunity.

Thank YOU, Deborah! I’ll be in touch to get your address for our friends at Cara B ASAP!

Have you seen the newest video from Cara B? It is SO ADORABLE! Behold, Bath Time. HOW CUTE are these triplets?!?

The concept behind the video is to showcase the loving everyday moments that parents share with their little ones, and to stress the need for all natural products – especially on newborns, babies and children, who are more susceptible to the harmful side effects of products containing harsh chemicals.

Awwwww.

Thank you, Cara B for the great giveaway opportunity for Afrobella readers!

Bellas, you can visit Cara B’s official site here, or click here to follow them on Facebook or Twitter. And click here for their official YouTube channel, where more adorable vignettes are in store!

Sometimes it takes me a while to plan an outfit. It requires forethought and often, I get stressed out while thinking about it. When I’m traveling for an event, at least three or four days before I take the time to sit and come up with a complete outfit itinerary for my trip — including shoes and accessories. It is that serious.

I’ve always had strong opinions of what I’d like to wear, and I love beautiful clothes. But sometimes I feel stuck. Like many of you, I wind up standing in front of an overstuffed closet lamenting that I have “nothing to wear.” And I realize that’s because I have many options but sometimes I struggle to put things together. At times I’ve found myself unsure of what I would define as MY STYLE, and I know I’m not the only woman who has felt that way.

That’s where Pinterest comes in. Pinterest has helped me get a visual idea of my style that’s become really helpful in deciding what to buy, where to shop, and what my style is evolving into, now that I’m a woman in my early thirties.

What do I share on My Style board? Items I own, or items I’d like to own. Some of it’s aspirational, some of it’s affordable. It’s a vision board of clothes and accessories and women who inspire me to put it all together and turn it out every time I need to.

My Style Inspiration board is more about the famous faces through history who inspire me to look and live as fiercely as possible.

This week is full of MAJOR events I’ll be attending and I had a momentary lapse in style confidence. Then I looked at my Pinterest boards and then my closet, which I took the time to reorganize recently — I need to write a post on THAT because it’s a project in itself! And now I feel like I GOT THIS. Will share my pics on Twitter so you can let me know if I got it right!

Are you into Pinterest? Click here to follow my boards and leave your Pinterest link in the comments!

And for beauty inspiration via Pinterest, check out this post by India Jewel-Jackson over at Fashionista.com – 10 Beauty Boards You Should Be Following on Pinterest!

Where do you turn for style inspiration, bellas?

Some of your entries in the Shea Radiance Mother’s Day giveaway really touched my heart. I love knowing more about you and your lives, and I hope those of you who win will really enjoy this gift basket. And if you didn’t win, please know I appreciate you for reading and taking the time to comment, and I hope you win my next giveaway!

The five winners of the Shea Radiance giveaway are:

Cheekie

Lacquerholic

Congratulations to you, and I’ll be in touch to get your information for my friends at Shea Radiance!

Thank you all for entering!

She inspires me in terms of her poise, her grace, her accomplishments, her style, and in the way that she makes health and fitness a priority. I’m trying to do the same in my life, and the First Lady’s workout regimen inspires me.

Check out this Oprah interview for details – Michelle Obama is into the treadmill, weights, jump rope and kickboxing! Myself, I’m trying to get there. She wakes up at 4:30 a.m. to work out! I’m nowhere hear as fit as the FLOTUS is, but I agree completely with her statement to Oprah, “I realized that my happiness is tied to how I feel about myself.”

That’s how I feel as well, but exercise is a daily struggle right now that I’m hoping to make into a habit. One thing Mrs. O and I do have in common right now – a killer workout playlist of our favorite tunes to work up a sweat to! Via Women’s Health and Soulbounce, this is the First Lady’s workout playlist!

1. Stevie Wonder – “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)”
2. Beyoncé – “Move Your Body (Let’s Move Theme)”
3. Janelle Monáe – “Tightrope”
4. Sara Bareilles – “Love Song”
5. Michael Jackson – “Unbreakable”
6. Willow Smith – “Whip My Hair”
7. Beyoncé – “I Was Here”
8. Chubb Rock – “Treat ‘Em Right”
9. Ledisi – “Thank You”
10. Jennifer Lopez – “Get Right”

I have a workout playlist too – click here for all of it but be forewarned, some of it gets a little profane! But I’ll share my favorite PG-13 tracks right here with you. Maybe you like to work up a sweat to a few of these as well!

Afrobella’s Workout Motivation Playlist

1. Audio Two – Top Billin’

When you first get on the treadmill or elliptical, you need a tune that will get you moving and grooving and happy to be there. The beat on this is perfect for beginning my workout. And the braggadocio in the lyrics makes me feel like obviously I’m about to ACE this workout.

2. M.I.A – Bad Girls

I kinda drifted from my love for M.I.A for a minute there but this song and this VIDEO brought me right back. Bad Girls is everything I loved about M.I.A back in the day – undeniable beats, nonchalant “rapping” and sneering attitude for days. This puts swagger in my workout step. And HOW AMAZING is this video? Imagine being on THAT set!

3. Alison Hinds – Faluma

Soca is PHENOMENAL workout music. Specifically recorded and intended to move a crowd to dancing for days at a time, it is high energy music that won’t let you quit until you’re sweaty. It is ideal for exercising – in NYC, there are even Socamotion workout classes to teach you how to get in shape in time for Carnivals around the world! And Barbados’ own Alison Hinds has been my workout inspiration from the moment I first heard this song! You may remember this 2008 post about Allison that details the history of the song. Alison’s version of Faluma was first recorded in 1997 and it goes just as hard today as it did then. Put that in your headphones when on the treadmill and let me know what you think!

4. Beyonce – Countdown

Can a workout playlist be complete without Queen Bey? I say NAY. I absolutely loved the video for Countdown when it dropped and there’s something about the pace of the song that sends me head over heels in love. It makes me want to dance, and there’s nothing wrong with dancing through your workout!

5. Michael Jackson – Workin’ Day and Night

I’d also venture to say that a workout playlist without a little Michael Jackson is INCOMPLETE. The FLOTUS loves latter period MJ. For me, the frenetic rhythm of Working Day and Night powers me through even the most challenging of interval training peaks.

6. Justin Timberlake – My Love

When will Justin Timberlake take a break from Hollywood film sets and get back in the studio with Timberland? They’re an unstoppable combination! Until quite recently I’d forgotten HOW HARD this song goes in my headphones – can you believe this dropped in 2006? Can’t wait for new music from these two, for now it’s Justified and Future Sex/Love Sounds on repeat.

7. Lil Jon – Snap Yo Fingers

I hope y’all aren’t judging me. What can I say, Lil Jon is a great motivator! (Yeah!) The beat of this song is what it’s all about to me (because of course it can’t be the lyrical content). Most of Lil Jon’s songs make my workout go by a little bit faster. I know I can’t be the only one still getting down to crunk music on the downlow.

8. Gnarls Barkley – Go Go Gadget Gospel

This is a GREAT outdoor workout song because Cee-Lo’s voice truly SOUNDS like freedom when he lets loose. His voice is so unique and soaring. I love Cee-Lo! I think he’s a genius for many reasons. But this song right here? Makes me feel like running (and I’m so not there yet in my workout attempts).

9. Sheila E – The Glamorous Life

LOVE Prince, and this song is such an elliptical banger for a few reasons! ALL of those reasons are Sheila E. The DRUMS in this song are on another level! Something about this song makes me feel cute even when I’m dripping with sweat.

10. Jack White – I’m Shakin’

I’m a BIG Jack White fan, and I am flipping over his latest album, Blunderbuss. I don’t normally turn to Mr. White for workout music material, but this song right here fits the bill! It’s a cover of Little Willie John’s 1960’s hit, and that’s ANOTHER reason I love Jack White, he always pays homage to musicians of yore and introduces them to his audience. I discovered Little Willie John because of this song, and his life story is fascinating. Cannot WAIT for Jack White at Lollapalooza this year!

And that’s what’s getting me up and moving these days! My complete Spotify Workout Motivation playlist is right here. What’s on your workout playlist? Share and I’ll add my faves to my Spotify list!

I have always had so much love for Jody Watley as an artist. And now she continues to make amazing music and she also has an incredible style blog — please do yourself a favor and check out JodyWatley.net for a much needed dose of style and glamour from of the best to ever do it!

When I went to the Beautylish Beauty Social last year, Jody greeted me with warmth and kindness, and even made a point to attend the Brown Girl Beauty Uncensored panel I participated in. Honored was NOT the word. I was so absolutely thrilled that she would do something like that!

Jody is as beautiful inside as she is out. We first met at the home of legendary makeup artist Billy B, and they told me all about the video they worked on together for A Beautiful Life. Directed by the insanely handsome and talented Mike Ruiz, with flawless makeup by Billy B, Jody is transformed into myriad looks to display the range of her gorgeousness. And in case you missed Billy’s interview about the amazing experience – click here to read Billy B on makeup, being a legend, and Jody!

Must have been A LOT of fun on that shoot! I was lucky enough to catch up with the beautiful and talented Jody Watley, and ask her questions for Afrobella.com. We discuss music, her personal history as an artist, the shoot for A Beautiful Life and her love for Billy, and her beauty and hair favorites! Read on, bellas!

The Afrobella Interview — Jody Watley

Afrobella -   Of course anyone who’s reading this blog would instantly know who you are, but I always love to ask people to define themselves. So for anyone who was born and raised under a rock and doesn’t know, who is Jody Watley?

Jody Watley — I’d just send them to my website and say “It’s all there”  to be honest, LOL! In short-form I’m a Grammy winning artist – Best New Artist of 1987. It’s been written that I’m one of the defining and trendsetting artists of the 80′s at my pinnacle – I’ve learned to really appreciate what that means because thousands of artists release music every year without an impact. My style and music videos it has been written – raised the bar for women in music – not just black artists which I find to be really humbling.

I am also the first artist to blend Pop/R&B and have a Hot 100 Top Five single with a customized 16 bar verse and guest rapper with Eric B. and Rakim – obviously that formula continues to dominate the charts. When Eric B and Rakim and I did “Friends” it was called a ‘duet’, because no one knew how to refer to it. It’s been written in a couple of books already about the history and evolution of Hip-Hop… that’s a little of who I am..I’m also a songwriter of the majority of my songs and not just eye candy, lol (had to say that). So, that’s a little of who I am – as an artist.

Afrobella -  Fans have watched you grow up right before our eyes, from the days of Shalamar and Soul Train to the Eighties, and right on up to now where you’ve been in control of your musical destiny. When you look back on your career, which three performances are your favorites?

Jody Watley — Thank you! Well, I’ve always been in control of my musical career since I went solo – with God’s grace, strength and wisdom…and of course my freestyle Soul Train days.

My Mom recently asked me if I remember telling her very matter of factly at 4 years old that I had started my own modeling agency, LOL! I’ve always had big dreams. My first stage appearance was with my godfather soul music great Jackie Wilson. It’s impossible to pick a favorite performance – my most recent shows in Japan were awesome – I really try to appreciate being in the moment and feel each opportunity I choose to take is special.

That said, every Arsenio Hall Show performance whether I was doing up-tempo/ jazz or inspirational (Friends, Your Love Keeps Working On Me, After You Who, It All Begins With You, etc). The MTV Awards, The Beacon in NYC, Gibson Amphitheatre some of the footage captured in my ‘Everything’ video..performing with Stevie Wonder for his Skeletons MTV Special, The White House by special invitation, Lifeball (Europe’s biggest AIDS Charity Gala) in Austria a couple of years ago was so fabulous and over the top and the biggest stage I’ve performed on  — so many…being a part of Band Aid..I can go on. God is good and I’m so thankful to have the opportunities I’ve been given.

Afrobella -  Would you say you have a signature look? I would say you change the hair but there’s a timeless quality to your look. If you had to describe the look that’s become synonymous with Jody Watley, what would you call it?

Jody Watley – Most people say the jumbo hoop earrings. I went looking for the biggest ones I could find. I wore big hoops in junior high – of course not a big, but the big ones for that time. I’ve also worn an afro off and on since junior high.

My solo debut my style was more street chic funky trendy and with punk rock edge (lots of black the metal belts with spikes, short studded biker boots, etc) my desire was to create timeless classic images. Mixed with that were high end designers like Gaultier (preceding Madonna), and Issey Miyake and also vintage – I’ve always added vintage since my Soul Train days.

I’m a true chameleon in that I’ve changed so much and adapted to so many styles that I like and have made them my own. The jumbo hoops are still here  – not just for me but I see them on other young singers on the commercial radar, reality stars, in fashion editorials etc..my style has always evolved. Toward the end of the 6 years I was in Shalamar I was heavily into Vivienne Westwood / World’s End. My solo debut was trendy with a rock girl edge..my second album went in a more high fashion direction with Steven Meisel shooting the album cover. David Fincher doing the video for ‘Real Love’ – all of that was a bit of the fashion curve at the time. All of it holds up which was my goal – to have everything from the start be as authentic as possible. “Still a Thrill” in Paris – was funky and chic at the same time. It was all un-choreographed freestyle, which was and is different than most ‘dance’ videos. Other than make-up, I was my own glam squad (no stylist) on the style tip – also very unique to other artists.

My third and fourth albums ‘Affairs of The Heart’ (Tailored suits) and ‘Intimacy’ (Bohemian chic) were more introspective and I really didn’t want the focus so much on the fashion so I took things down a notch but still very me.

Afrobella - I want to talk hair with you! In your stunningly directed video A Beautiful Life, you go through many hair transformations. Of course my favorite was the big, fabulous afro!! What was your favorite look from the video, and if you don’t mind me asking, how are you wearing your hair now? Any favorite products or recommendations?

Jody Watley – Thank you! ‘A Beautiful Life’ was written as one of two new songs I’d written for my last album in 2006 ‘The Makeover’, which was an ambient electronic covers album. I released it directly to a major retailer and it was #1 for them – really cool on the entrepreneurial side for me. The project had 3 Top Five Dance Singles on Billboard, with one of them, the makeover of the CHIC classic “I Want Your Love” giving me a 13th #1 Dance Single. “A Beautiful Life” was #5 and I wrote it with the thought of writing a song for women or anyone in a bad or unhealthy relationship. “I’d rather be living on my own, then to live in a constant state of misery…because I’m stronger, wiser and feeling beautiful” are a couple of my favorite lines. So, I write what I live or think other’s are living – always have, all of my songs tell a story – old and now. I have to say that, because when you’re not in the Top 40 the average person assumes an artist isn’t doing anything..sometimes that’s true but not for me.

I think that’s what everyone should aim for. Life is too short to settle for less. I’m not talking about money and superficial things in the song.

My favorite is the Philip Treacy cyborg hat. It was a fun day of hair and make-up with Mike Ruiz and Billy B. We were doing a photo session / video.

As far as products, I have so much stuff, my bathroom can double as a beauty supply. I’m always trying new things. I’m currently big on natural things you can keep in your kitchen, olive, coconut, jojoba and vitamin E oils — they all have natural anti-aging anti-oxidants. I like making my own concoctions. I recently did a coconut milk, coconut oil and avocado mask for my hair – it was fantastic. Fresh cold milk soaked eye pads are great to whiten and depuff the eyes. I recently started using that because I suffer from allergies, which can make my eyes puffy. It works, it’s also soothing. Fresh cold cucumbers work of course as well, but the milk is really something!

I also use a jade roller to ward off wrinkles – although my Mom is in her 70′s and doesn’t really have many wrinkles – so I made get lucky, LOL! But jade is an Eastern tool that’s been around for centuries. It’s also a great de-stressor, very relaxing. We’re all more beautiful with less stress!

Afrobella – You worked with makeup legend Billy B on that video, and he’s such an inspiration to me. Billy does such amazing work, particularly with women of color in my opinion. Talk to me about working with Billy – what’s it like, and what do you love most about him?

Jody Watley — We first worked together on the artwork for “The Makeover”, including the special effects faux plastic surgery photo’s for the inside booklet, inspired by a layout I’d seen in VOGUE Italia featuring Linda Evangelista photographed by Steven Meisel called “Makeover Madness”. I thought OMgosh, this will work for the album. Getting older in this business of course you see people painfully trying to hang on to their youth with plastic surgery and I wrote a bit on the inside about the unbalanced view we have now on what beautiful is and the lengths people go to erase father time. Anyway – that’s when I met Billy, in NYC for the session with Mike Ruiz. The second was the video for “A Beautiful Life”, and then fabulous “Lifeball” in Vienna, Austria…and a test session we did for ‘Chameleon’ – which I LOVE.

I adore that Billy is a southern gentleman. One would expect him to be a prima donna or full of attitude.  He knows his craft is so down to earth in a genuine way. Billy is collaborative yet very honest.  I remember him telling someone it’s not about the bag – it’s what’s IN the bag – and of course how to use it when giving advice to up and coming artists. That’s Billy. He also turned me on the fried olives, which I’d never heard of, lol. We had them at lunch once at one of his favorite Italian restaurants. No one does lashes on me like Billy – I want to say!

Afrobella – What’s your philosophy about beauty?

Jody Watley — I recently came across an article with me in my late teen’s from my Shalamar days and I was talking about the importance on taking care of yourself and to be happy and wanting to age well. It made me smile to see the younger me was already on the right path. I still agree with that – it’s from the inside – out. It’s how I raised my daughter – using your intellect and brains is beautiful. I made sure she knew her brown skin was beautiful. Much of what we feel about ourselves comes from our home environments and so parents must be mindful and diligent as teachers, role models and cheerleaders of our own children.

We are beautiful – in all of our diversity of hues, features, hair textures, personalities, shapes and sizes and so on. Growing up I had pics of a range of women I looked up to in addition to my own Mom – from Beverly Johnson, Diana Ross Judy Pace, Diahann Carroll,Nina Simone, activist Angela Davis – as well as Janice Dickinson and Twiggy. You can have a pretty face and be ugly – because of your actions or character. If you are miserable – it will show..so inside – out. A smile and a pleasant face can be beautiful. A positive attitude is beautiful.

It’s a blessing to grow older but it can be tough in that women are said to become more invisible the older we get. For me as I get older, it’s about doing it with grace. You can still be fly and fabulous but it’s about finding what works – wherever you are today.

Everyone has to define beauty for themselves, though I do think we are often too hard on ourselves, and the media doesn’t help. So it’s important to learn to love and appreciates ourselves; while always leaving room for improvement but not beating ourselves up about it. This sounds cliché but it’s true. Validate yourself and all that is distinctly you.

The title song of my forthcoming album is ‘Chameleon’ and the title song is about us as women, mothers, wives/ex-wives, daughters, etc – and all that we do and the changes we go through and not just our appearance – our journey.

Afrobella -  What are your favorite products right now? Skincare, makeup, perfume?

Jody Watley – I’ve been a longtime products fanatic – my bathroom is like a beauty supply store, LOL! I try new things all the time. Obviously, I’ve become very focused over the last 15 years on anti-aging treatments and creams. Retinol, etc. I answered this one above when speaking about how I use olive oil, etc…

I don’t wear much perfume I’m more of a scented cream or oils person but though I like Annick Goutal Petite Cherie, it’s very light. The coconut oil mixed with a touch of vanilla oil always seems to get a great reaction when I put that together. I like the soft scent of fresh roses. Monoi Tiare Tahiti Oil is yummy. When I wear my curly fro’ I really like what ‘Curls’ Coconut Sublime Conditioner does.

Make-up is a combination of Chanel, MAC, Kett, NARS and on and on! I love false eyelashes, and crazy about the range of choice in nail polish available now. My favorite lip colors at the moment are NARS Falbala and Clinique Chubby Stick 07 Super Strawberry – for a more natural mouth.

Rosebud Salve is one of my must-have at all times products. I keep it in my car and purse. It’s multi-purpose for quick fix dry skin (hands), lips (an instant gloss), hair (sheen), and it of course smells divine.

Also for dry hair — I love Moroccan Argan Oil.

Afrobella -   Tell me about A Beautiful Life – what message do you want your fans to get from the track?

Jody Watley — Aspire to be in a healthy, uplifting and empowering environment – personally and professionally. We all deserve it – believe that and don’t let anyone make you think / believe otherwise about your self worth and value. If you’re in an abusive environment – get out and don’t look back other than to remember the lessons you’ve learned.

Afrobella -  What new and exciting musical projects are you working on?

Jody Watley — My thoughts on releasing more albums continues to shift though I remain immersed in creativity of all forms – music remains a passion but I’m realistic in today’s sales climate – especially for established veteran artists. My last album in 2006 was an exclusive with the Virgin Megastore chain directly through continued entrepreneurial side. ‘The Makeover’ was #1 for them as they worked to bring consumers back to the brick and mortar retail experience. The album which is available at iTunes debuted at #3 Top Electronic Albums which was cool.

“Chameleon”, will be my 10th full length and touches in part on my early Disco/Funk influences which of course is also full circle for me as my career started back then first as a dancer on Soul Train and then as a member of the group Shalamar. Additionally, the music oozes with soulful dance and electronic music my genre since 1999.  I plan on releasing a summer single titled ‘Nightlife’ which is inspired by my love of 70′s disco funk.

I’ve also done two fun guest vocal appearances with Canadian Electro-Pop band “French Horn Rebellion” as well as Stones Throw’s international modern funk artist Dam-Funk which I believe will be out this summer.

I’ve been doing select live dates to preview my new music, celebrate the 25th anniversary of my solo debut..and all of the other great music I’ve been known for the past few decades.

I have  literary aspirations in books that can translate to TV and film. I’ve loved writing since I was a child. I started writing poetry and short stories, which evolved into novels at 12 – which turned into songwriting. So, I’m looking forward to that next chapter – writing more. My children aren’t children anymore and so I have more freedom now. My #1 goal, in the midst of having a successful career was to be a great Mom and give my children a great foundation – and for the time I was married to be a great wife.

With my longtime associated with style and fashion I’m working on line of figure flattering pants for full figured women in particular – inspired by the creator of Spanx!

Basically, I’m adding to my goals and dreams and looking forward to the next chapters of my life and career.

I also maintain my own Style and Beauty Blog, which was in part inspired by Afrobella

Afrobella -  For anyone who has looked to your career as an inspiration and wanted to be like you…what’s your advice?

Jody Watley  — Be the best YOU, everyone else is already taken!

Seeing as we lost a legend yesterday, I had to ask Jody for a statement on the loss of Donna Summer. Jody has weighed on on her blog and you can read her post here. She shared this with me:

“Not simply “Disco” Donna Summer also ruled “Pop” Music radio and charts. Her double albums were/are unparalleled concept albums, few did them better male or female in any genre – her releases for me were events.  I couldn’t wait to see the cover art, read the liner notes and listen to the music, much of which she helped write.

Donna Summer also brought elements into the mainstream fusing Rock (Hot Stuff) with dance – one of her Grammy’s was in Rock..she really worked all genres and was such an inspiration to me in dance/pop. I also understood when she reached a point of not wanting to be put into a box and that she continued to work and create good music up through her last release a couple of years ago.

When I signed my solo deal with MCA, the executive who signed had worked with Donna Summer during her Casablanca years – which made it easier for him to understand and trust me..and to galvanize the company to market and promote me out of the box.

The current dominance of dance music that young artists have jumped on is rooted in disco .. electro, techno is simply another extension and so I hope they know she’s another artist whose shoulders they stand on.”

Bellas do yourself a favor and check out Jody’s blog right here. You can also follow her on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Thank you for being so amazing, so inspiring, and so accessible, Jody!

What’s your favorite Jody Watley song, bellas?

What I love about Blogging While Brown is the camaraderie and the community. So many of us came up alongside each other and we hardly ever get to be in the same room together. So many of us are at varying stages of being a blogger, and have much to learn from each other. And despite the disparity of the topics we blog about, we bond over our shared experiences. To me, Blogging While Brown has the feel of a family reunion. And I can’t wait to be reunited on June 1!  I’m speaking on an awesome panel presented by BlogHer! Some of my best friends in the blogosphere will be there! AND I’m hosting the Saturday night afterparty!

Wanna come with me? No…seriously. Do you?

Shamon!! It’s the EDEN BodyWorks & Afrobella Blogging While Brown Scholarship Giveaway (in case you somehow missed my title above)!

The beautiful people at EDEN BodyWorks are partnering with me and Blogging While Brown to offer one lucky New York based blogger the opportunity to attend the conference this year!!!

What do you win?

– (1) NYC blogger’s attendance to the conference covering transportation to/from NYC to Philly, hotel for two nights, and ground transportation. 

What do you have to do?

Click right here to read the official rules and enter, and tell us about your blog, including a link to your best post. Then tell us why YOU deserve to attend Blogging While Brown. Oh and PLEASE NOTE – I am NOT judging this contest! I know far too many fabulous New York based bloggers to be able to choose. The folks at EDEN will help to make the call! I’m just your hostess with the mostest

How do you enter one more time? Click right here to enter your info!! This contest ends May 23. And whoever the lucky winner is, I’ll be seeing you in Philly!!

Good luck!!

This year has been awful, in terms of losing my childhood musical icons.

Donna Summer’s music was most essential in my earliest childhood years. Songs like Hot Stuff, Bad Girls, and On The Radio were in regular rotation on Trinidadian radio just as it was in America and around the world. In the Seventies and Eighties, Donna Summer’s music was inescapable. Infectious. Everything. These were my favorites of her phenomenal songs.

I was born in 1979, so I knew Donna’s Eighties hits best. I remember having a dance to She Works Hard For The Money that SO didn’t reference or comprehend what the song was even ABOUT.

State of Independence was my jam when I was a kid. Produced by Quincy Jones, Donna Summer’s cover of State of Independence featured a ridiculous all star choir in the background. Those are the combined voices of Michael Jackson, Brenda Russell, James Ingram, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Loggins, Lionel Richie and Stevie Wonder. (Thank you, Wikipedia).

I didn’t know Love to Love You until my teenage years and I definitely remember the first time I heard it. And once you heard it, you could never forget it. That’s the sound of a woman in control and fully aware of her sensuality, and I love it. Nobody could do this song justice like Donna did.

I Feel Love is evocative of an era and of a feeling. To me, I Feel Love is flowing dresses with bell sleeves, sequins and lame, sunglasses at night, and Studio 54 in its opening year. If you close your eyes, you can almost visualize yourself under the twinkling disco balls of yore. Listening to I Feel Love, you can see what the future looked like from 1977.

Donna Summer was a private woman and many have commented that they had no idea she was sick. She lived in Key West, one of my favorite places in the world. I hope her last days were spent surrounded by the love of her family and dearest friends, in comfort and peace.

You gave the world so much beautiful music.  Thank you, Donna Summer. RIP.