The Cryptic Beauty

Floral Beauty: Naomi Campbell covers Vogue España, July 2020

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 16:43:00 +0000

Model: Naomi Campbell

Publication: Vogue España, July 2020

Photographer: Nadine Ijewere

Stylist: Nathan Klein

Makeup: Fran Cooper

Hair: Lorenzo Barcell

Set: Heath Mattioli

Production: JN Production, Kendall Stewart

Supermodel extraordinaire Naomi Campbell covers the July 2020 issue of Vogue España in a sophisticated Gucci floral ensemble. This issue marks the 6th Vogue España cover for Campbell -- the first dating back to 1991. Photographed by Nadine Ijewere (taken in January before the pandemic struck), Campbell dons Christian Siriano, Chanel, Giambattista Valli, Capucci and more while surrounded by a floral scenery set up by Heath Mattioli.

View the editorial below.

In Full Bloom: Listen to Habit Blcx's 'BLOOM' ft. Rome Castille & Evrywhr

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 01:23:00 +0000

Getting stir crazy while in quaratine? The Cryptic Beauty has a new jam for you to add to your playlist! Los Angeles based rapper Habit Blcx released a new single just time for Spring entitled 'Bloom' featuring artists Rome Castille and Evrywhr.

Listen to the single below.
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New Video: Awich - 'Brainwashing' [洗脳] ft. Dogma & Chinza Dopeness

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 00:52:00 +0000

Directed by Hideto Hotta, Japanese raptress Awich dropped a visual for her latest single 'Brainwashing' featuring Dogma & Chinza Dopeness. 'Brainwashing' was produced by Chaki Zulu and was lifted from Awich's current album, "Peacock" (released Jan. 11, 2020 ).

Watch the video below.
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Ear Candy: 'Right On Time' by SoDown feat. Megan Hamilton

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 18:01:00 +0000

It's official, saxophonist and bass music producer SoDown dropped his latest single, 'Right On Time,' featuring Minneapolis-based songstress Megan Hamilton after favorable reviews from their show last November during SoDown's Trilogy Winter Tour.

When speaking about the new single, the Colorado-based musician shared:

"Really stoked to finally release this one! It’s the start of a new concept I’ve been working on, representing the power of living in the moment and the impermanence of life." SoMuchLove, -SoDown

SoDown is currently on tour right now. Head to his official website to see if he's coming your way. Listen to 'Right On Time' right below.

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Serena Williams Covers The Global Fashion Issue of Essence Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 05:26:00 +0000

Photographed by Kwaku Alston, tennis phenom Serena Williams covers the Global Fashion Issue of Essence Magazine. In the cover story, "The Future of Serena Williams," Williams discusses with Essence's entertainment director Cori Murray the importance of speaking up, freedom, investing in oneself, her upcoming "S by Serena Williams" fashion line debuting at NYFW, what she looks for in fashion, and more!

"When you invest in yourself, it helps your confidence, and you’ll know forever that whether you make it or not, you stepped up to the plate." - Serena Williams

The mompreneur is drenched in dazzling fashion by designers such as Carolina Herrera, Guiseppe Zanotti, Talbot Runhof, Issey Miyake and more while New York based artist Laolu has painted the tenntis pro's face for the cover.

"We are beyond ecstatic to have Serena Williams—one of the most photographed women on the planet—to be the muse for our September Global Fashion issue," said ESSENCE Chief Content & Creative Officer MoAna Luu. "This issue promises to be one of ESSENCE’s biggest with a fresh new redesign. We also brought the best Black creatives in the world—including visual artist Láolú, who gave us Serena’s stunning face painting for the cover—to present all of the stunning visuals that you see."

View more from this editorial below.
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Natural Beauty: Zendaya Covers Glamour Paris June 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 19:52:00 +0000

Photographed by Amar Daved, actress Zendaya covers the June 2019 edition of Glamour Paris. Zendaya was styled in her collaborative collection with Tommy Hilfiger by Nora Bordjah.

Currently, Zendaya is the lead actress in a new adapted HBO series, "Euphoria." Inspired by the original Israeli teen drama, the show centers around a group of teens as they navigate the ups and downs of drug addictions, intimacy, trauma, identity, pressure of social media, love and friendship. "Euphoria" premiered on June 16th with solid ratings and picked up a bit of controversy along the way due to graphic nudity and disturbing violence scenes.

I haven't checked it out for myself, but I'm hearing good things about the series from social media. Checkout Zendaya editorial spread for Glamour Paris and watch the trailer to "Euphoria" below.

Album Review: Big "O" - "The Light of Day" EP

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 04:37:00 +0000

Orlando Turner, better known as Big "O," is an American producer currently based in London. He began his musical journey at the age of 13 when he first discovered his passion for making beats. Big "O" continued to hone his skills at Full Sail University where he earned a degree in Music Productions/Recording Arts and there after landed a job in live audio in Miami, FL.

While his time in Florida was lucrative, Big "O" steadily made his way to Los Angeles, CA to work on his very first independent film entitled "Love, Art & Celibacy." Turner now resides in the UK where he is continuing to forge his impeccable career as a hip-hop producer/mixing engineer.

The Review:

Engulfed with soulful, hypnotizing instrumentals, "The Light of Day" EP is American producer Big O's latest project boasting seven astounding original tracks. The EP, overall, possesses subtle keys, minimal but powerful bass line over a mellow drum arrangement. A perfect trifecta....

Big Boi Joins Highly-Anticipated Sony Feature, "Superfly"

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 22:03:00 +0000

Grammy award-winning musician and actor Big Boi has been cast in Sony's upcoming remake of the classic 1972 film, Superfly. He will play the role of Mayor Atkins, and will co-star alongside Allen Maldonado (Black-ish), Trevor Jackson (Grown-ish) and Jason Mitchell (Straight Outta Compton).

Superfly, a Blaxploitation crime drama, follows an African American cocaine dealer who tries to secure one more deal before getting out the "game." American screenwriter Alex Tse will pen the screenplay based on the original Gordon Parks Jr.-directed film.
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Actress Kerry Washington Bares it All on Allure Magazine: "I Wear My Natural Hair Now For My Children"

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 16:17:00 +0000

Photographed by Sharif Hamza, actress Kerry Washington covers the latest issue of Allure Magazine. Her November cover story, Washington shares with Judith Newman how her beautiful children, Isabelle, 3, and Caleb, 1, inspired her to embrace her natural hair.

"I like to wear my natural texture, especially now because I have children and I want them to know that their hair is perfect as it is," Washington said."They don't have to change it or straighten it. They can, but they don't have to. I have grown to like my hair more and more over the years. I won't have any chemicals in it. I stopped relaxing my hair in my early 20s."

She may be Olivia Pope, the D.C. Fixer for the colossal Shonda Rhimes-driven hit show "Scandal," but Washington insists to Newman how she doesn't have the answer for everything.

"It happens All. The. Time. I mean, part of it is because they know I can connect them to Judy Smith, (the crisis manager) who the role is based on. But people call me to say, 'I have this problem. Can I talk to you about it?' And I’m like, 'I don't even want to know! Just skip over me!' But I know secrets."

With the political turmoil (for the lack of better words) America is currently facing, Washington, like many of us, had to learn to tune in and out for her sanity...

"I have to dip in and dip out because it suffocates me. Like, I become unable to function. So it's a tricky balance between staying aware and also staying connected to a sense of hope and productivity and showing up for life."

Washington goes on the discuss with Newman her beauty regimen, motherhood, and her forthcoming projects. Washington is co-producing/starring with Eva Longoria in the Universal workplace comedy, "24-7." No date thus far when this project will be released.

View more of Kerry Washington's Allure editorial spread below.
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#CoverGirlMade | Issa Rae is the New Face of #CoverGirl Cosmetics

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 12:39:00 +0000

photo credit: issa rae/instagram

Issa Rae is many things... She's an actress, writer, director, producer, web series creator and now this self-dubbed "Awkward Black Girl" is a CoverGirl!! The "Insecure" creator has joined the ranks of Janelle Monae, Queen Latifah, Zendaya and formerly Rihanna (lets us not forget) as the new face of popular cosmetic brand.

Rae shared with her Instagram followers on Tuesday, September 12th how she felt honored to be one of CoverGirl's latest brand ambassadors.

"I remember being an awkward black girl in high school, reading the pages of my favorite magazines, casually flipping through @COVERGIRL ads, singing their slogan in my head. Never EVER in my life did I imagine I'd be one. I am SO honored and SO excited for what’s to come. Visit @COVERGIRL to learn more #COVERGIRLMADE

In a press release from CoverGirl, Rae went on to divulge: "My character is ever-evolving, and makeup is a tool to help transform my persona – whether for a role I play in content that I produce, or the different roles I take on in my life."

"Becoming a CoverGirl means a lot because the brand recognizes just how important it is for people to embrace their individuality and express themselves in unique and diverse ways. This has been a major part of my personal journey, and a message that I want to share with others."

Rae's "Insecure" co-star Yvonne Orji excitably wrote on her own Instagram page, "I'm bout to run to every CVS, RITE AID & WALGREENS and just WAIT for Issa Rae's CoverGirl line to DROP! I'm coppin ERRYYY DARN SHADE, you hear me?! I'mo be so ignant at the checkout counter if they ran out and ain't re-stocked."

No specific details have come out about the range of possible products curated by Rae, but I hope to hear more in the foreseeable future.

As I stated before, Issa Rae is many things... but she's Awkward no more! View another shot of Issa Rae as a CoverGirl below.

Makeup Geek's Marlena Stell Lands on Inc. 5000 List for the 4th Year in a Row

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:20:00 +0000

photo credit: marlena stell/instagram

Beauty guru turned Cosmetic Titan Marlena Stell has made the Inc.5000 list for the 4th year in a row! Coming in at #635, Stell's cosmetic line Makeup Geek, is only one in 10 companies to have made the list 4 times. This is excellent growth for a consumer facing business.

Marlena Stell is the quintessential Makeup Geek. While she made her name as an early You Tube Beauty Guru, her passion can be traced back to age 5, where she honed her blending skills on a Barbie head doll. In addition to geeking out about cosmetics, Stell is also passionate about helping women to feel beautiful from the inside out and expressing their true selves through makeup.

After starting her career as a music instructor, Marlena decided to jump into the industry that fascinated her while staying true to her educational roots. She created her YouTube channel and teamed up with her then business partner, Nick Reichert to bootstrap Makeup Geek in 2008.

After three years of building a strong YouTube following with educational content, Makeup Geek released their own line of highly-pigmented Eyeshadows in 2011. This resulted in a steady stream of positive word-of-mouth testimonials, and ultimately raised the stakes in the Beauty industry.

Nigerian Pop Star Yemi Alade Drops New Video 'Knack Am'

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 22:28:00 +0000

Shot and directed by Clarence Peters, Nigerian pop queen Yemi Alade released a new visual for her latest single, 'Knack Am' (purchase the single -- here) this past week with a guest appearance from comedian Josh2Funny. 'Knack Am' is the lead single from the poptress forthcoming third studio album, "Black Magic."

"Black Magic" (expected to be released this October) follows the massive success of Alade's debut and sophomore albums, "King of Queens" and "Mama Africa." Alade broke records when her hit single, 'Johnny,' (produced by Selebobo) became an international smash hit as it dominated music charts in Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Liberia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom, among others. 'Johnny' has been listed as one of the best songs of 2013, despite the fact that it was released towards the end of the year and without a music video at the time.

With her massive appeal, Yemi Alade landed the coaching position on the hit series "The Voice Nigeria."

Follow Yemi Alade on her Official Website, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Watch the video for 'Knack Am' below.

London-based Singer/Songwriter Sharlene-Monique released New Video 'You'

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 23:57:00 +0000

Sharlene-Monique, a London-based singer/songwriter, released a music video to her debut single, 'You.' Directed by Rebecca Coley, 'You' is a emotionally passionate cinematography that reflects elements of Sharlene-Monique's past.

"I'm really excited to be releasing music that I feel so passionate about. I really hope people connect with the message of the song. The video stirred up so many emotions inside because it reflects elements of my past." - Sharlene-Monique

A Media Performance graduate, Identity Drama School attendee and founder of award nominated blog and empowerment "Be Uniquely You," Sharlene-Monique is now successfully tackling a new kind of creative challenge; sharing her personal message of self-acceptance, self-love and self-empowerment to any and all who will lend their ear to her first release of her debut single, 'You.'

The multi-skilled musician hails from a past of singing dancing and teaching across the UK and Europe, and has successfully earned her stripes in the lead up to a timely decision to begin practicing what she had so confidently shared to others for a number of years. Starting off her campaign with a very successful headline & support promo tour around the UK, Sharlene is left with just two shows remaining in Glasgow and is finishing off in the city of London.

Speaking of her music video for her debut single 'You,' Sharlene-Monique says, "I'm really excited to be releasing music that I feel so passionate about. I really hope people connect with the message of the song. The video stirred up so many emotions inside because it reflects elements of my past."

The song was written by Sharlene-Monique and produced by her husband Chris Morris (chrismorrismusic.com). Mixed by Grammy-Award winning mix engineer Alan Branch, 'You' tells a heartwarming tale of a young lady metamorphosing through a series of personal challenges, and her journey to discovering, accepting and enjoying her true self.

Emotive visuals, together with a cleverly constructed piano instrumental from international Jazz extraordinaire, Robert Mitchell makes for the perfect source of musical inspiration.

'You' is now available for download via iTunes. Follow Sharlene-Monique on her Official Website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and SoundCloud.

Watch the music video below.
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Album Review: L.O.U. - "The South Side of Things" (prod. Big "O")

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 23:32:00 +0000

New York rapper L.O.U. began his musical journey in 2011 when he released his debut mixtape "Let's Obliterate the Universe." He went on to drop two EPs "Life Through a Broken Hourglass" and "Devil on the Clouds" in 2012 and 2013 respectively with producer Maze Rockwell.

This past May, L.O.U. released his latest album, "The South Side of Things," via Vintage Soundz Productions. With the project produced by Orlando Big "O" Turner, "South Side of Things" embodies 12 reflective tracks about L.O.U.'s upbringings in South side Jamaica Queens and the challenges of reaching the next level as he progresses into the music industry.

On the tracks 'Meet the Parent' and 'South Side of Things,' L.O.U. lays out how his parents questioned his "lifestyle" of being a rapper. Both tracks cover L.O.U.'s disconnection with his mother and the lack of support from his father. Due to this misunderstanding, this made L.O.U. fight harder for his musical career. The title track features songstress Raye Cole on the hook.

'Who've Would of Thought' (featuring rapper Skyzoo) we hear L.O.U. rap over an upbeat tempo celebrating how far he's come in hip-hop and there's nothing holding him back from moving forward. L.O.U. declares on 'No Hold Backs' that he will not be stop from rising to the top.

Overall, I really enjoyed this album... the rawness and open honesty of it all. "The South Side of Things" is a pure manifestation of triumphing through life obstacles without letting those situations slow down your morale.

Positivity runs rampantly through this album while L.O.U. shares his story hoping it'll reach the masses to keep pushing for your own greatness. This positivity is definitely reflected in the track 'No Way - No How.' L.O.U. exclaims to his listeners to never hold your down.

"The South Side of Things" is available now on iTunes and Spotify. Follow L.O.U. on Twitter and Facebook. For now, listen to "South Side of Things" along with watching visuals from this album all below.

Swedish Beauty Brand FACE Stockholm to Release Reebok Classic #FW17 Collaboration this August

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 15:19:00 +0000

photo credit: face stockholm

Five years and going strong.

Swedish beauty brand, FACE Stockholm unveiled their newest collaboration with Reebok Classics that expected to be released on August 28th. The FW17 collection is inspired by the cosmetics' brand tag line: 'Beauty, Wit and Grace.'

The best things come in threes so with this collaboration, FS x RbC combined their bold color palettes and iconic silhouettes respectively to create a hip, fun and fashionable look for this upcoming fall season. Expect to see a palette of blue, burgundy and beige within the FW17 collection.

FACE Stockholm is the only Swedish cosmetics company to give you makeup and skin care that is true to the Swedish beauty ideal—natural, trend-forward, simple, clean, gorgeous and fun! FACE Stockholm offers a spectacular range of colors and uses only the highest quality and most natural ingredients. With more than 200 lip shades, over 150 eye shadows, blushes, foundations, powders, professional makeup tools, and a natural skin care line, FACE Stockholm is eco-conscious, using minimal and recycled packaging and never testing on animals.

Follow FACE Stockholm on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. Hit up Reebok on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

View a snippet of their upcoming collaboration below.

NEW EDITION Commands the Stage at the #BETAwards2017 + View the Winner's List

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 02:47:00 +0000

photo credit: screen capture

Named the recipients of the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award, iconic R&B group New Edition put on a show-stopping performance at the 2017 BET Awards last night at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California.

Being the highlight of the night, the young and adult cast members of 'The New Edition Story' performed alongside the original members performing classic tracks from "Candy Girl," to Johnny Gill's "My, My, My," to Bobby Brown's "My Prerogative."

Luke James really stole the show with his velvety, smooth vocals while singing "My, My, My" and Woody McClain danced his way into the audiences' (including me) hearts when he performed Bobby Brown's unforgettable hits.

The original members also performed a medley of their hits including "Mr. Telephone Man," "If It Isn't Love," and "Can't You Stand the Rain."

SHETHER... Remy Ma won "Best Female Hip-Hop Artist" which broke her "nemesis" Nicki Minaj's 7 year long holding record and of course, Queen Bey (and new mommy to a set of twins) took home an award in every category she was nominated in for songs/works featured on her colossal hit album, "Lemonade."

Solange took home the "Centric Award" for culture classic album, "A Sit At The Table" while rapper Chance the Rapper won awards in the categories for "Best New Artist," "Best Collaboration," and "Humanitarian Award."

The 2017 BET Awards will re-air tomorrow on June 27th at 4pm ET/3pm CT. View the Winner's List below!

FLYING HIGH: Zendaya Makes Her Debut on US Vogue's July 2017 Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:43:00 +0000

Photographed by Mario Testino, actress/singer Zendaya covers the July 2017 issue of American Vogue. The "Spider-Man: Homecoming" actress wears a Calvin Klein 205W39NYC dress with Diane von Furstenberg disc and Dinosaur Designs drop earrings for her debut cover.

For her cover story, Zendaya opens up about her first love, her upcoming summer hit movie "Spider-Man: Homecoming" (out July 7th), and reinventing her Disney stardom. Read up on Zendaya's cover story -- HERE.

Zendaya is the ultimate style chameleon, able to pull off virtually any look. Here, she puts that skill to the test by dancing her way through nine decades of fashion and beauty, from ’20s flapper to today’s text-neck teen and everything in between.

From J.W.Anderson's chain mail-details dress to Fausto Puglisi's ostrich feather-trimmed shirt and embroidered leather jacket, Zendaya shows us her inner supermodel in the pages of Vogue's July 2017 issue.

View her editorial right below!

From the Makers of BEVEL, Walker & Company Brands Launches New Haircare Line, FORM Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 18:38:00 +0000

photo credit: walker & company brands

With the success of the BEVEL Shaving System, The Walker & Company introduces a new line catering to our unique haircare needs. FORM Beauty, a prestige hair care collection designed for hair of all textures, takes the guesswork of not knowing what to buy, where to get it and how to use it.

Inspired by your personal hair journey, FORM created a hair care collection that’s as versatile, as uncompromising and as beautiful as you are...

Excited to announce our sister brand, @FORMBeauty. Eliminating the guesswork in haircare 〰️ https://t.co/CCEYAwfIyC // share for the ladies. pic.twitter.com/dNOdndvMh1
— BEVEL (@bevel) June 20, 2017

FORM guarantees their products are formulated with little to no synthetic ingredients with the purpose of keeping your hair as healthy as possible. Most of their ingredients are naturally derived with you in mind.

According to Yahoo Beauty Director Dana Oliver, the 10-piece collection works on all textures, even natural and chemically-processed hair. "My hair still feels moisturized without applying any additional product," Oliver shared after her experience with using FORM. "Normally, I’d be slathering on oils and creams to revive my locks and make them less lackluster. It seems FORM has given me an ounce of hope for decluttering my hair routine without getting bored with my look."

The collection range from $22 to $32 and includes a detoxifying shampoo, moisturizing conditioner, 3-in-1 leave-in lotion, styling cremes, and heat protectant serum.

photo credit: walker & company brands

Cryptic Beauties, will FORM Beauty be the latest product to add to your growing collection?

Get To Know FORM Beauty:

Official Website: https://formbeauty.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/formbeauty/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/formbeauty

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FORMbeauty/

Listen to Naomi Wachira's 'Beautifully Human' + "Song of Lament" to be Released on June 2nd

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 01:25:00 +0000

Afro-Folk singer/songwriter Naomi Wachira released her lead single, 'Beautifully Human' from her forthcoming second studio album, "Song of Lament" (pre-order via iTunes). The Kenyan-born, Seattle-based artist highlights issues of human equality, especially as it undermines the divine sacredness of those who are different. Wachira blends melodies of truth/wisdom with a blend of world and reggae-infused folk music to capture the attention of her listeners.

"Song of Lament" was recorded at Seattle’s historic London Bridge studio, was produced by Eric Lilavois (Saint Motel, Atlas Genius, My Chemical Romance) with contributions from Dave West (organ/Rhodes), Teo Shantz (drums), Masa Kobayashi (bass), Tommy Sandovallegos (percussion), Eric Lilavois (percussion), Owuor Arunga (trumpet) and Andrew Joslyn (strings).

This collection of songs on "Song of Lament" is a testament to Wachira's full embrace of her creative power and its ability to spread goodness to a world churning with chaos and self-inflicted woes born out of fear and mistrust of the "other." It is a stark and heartfelt reflection on the contemporary world and the human experience therein. Throughout the eleven-track collection, Wachira poignantly articulates the pain and chaos of modern times, while also lifting up her enduring and hopeful belief in the fundamental goodness of humanity.

Listen to 'Beautifully Human' by Naomi Wachira below.

New Video: Allen York - "Ghetto Gospel" / #100Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 02:23:00 +0000

Directed by CreativityQas, New York-based emcee Allen York released the music video to his new single "Ghetto Gospel."

"I wanted to go real simple. Great beat and great raps," Allen York shares with the release of "Ghetto Gospel." The track opens up with York calling out fake rappers boasting a lifestyle they don't live...

All these rappers do, is gossip and rock fake designer.

With no future, they couldn’t imitate designer.

Imitation rhymers.

Couldn’t pick you out a line up.

I’m tryna make the hood great, while you making crimes up.

The mentality isn’t parallel.

Silver spoon rappers actin like they had to sell.

Was a dweeb who wanted friends, but would tattle tail.

Got knocked and mom and pops had the bail.

Via his official website, "Project Telescope" is expected to be release this fall, but we'll see/hear more news from Allen York in the upcoming weeks.

Harlem born, Kissimmee bred, hip hop artist Allen York is just your semi-typical young man with dreams to spread his lyricism. Starting to rhyme at the tender age of 10 and putting out tapes at 15, has taken a lot of time for Allen York to get this point. With his unorthodox song making capability and approach to music as a whole, it's good to see someone who's more focused on the craft than the credit. The lyrics are simple enough to relate to, but complicated enough that you may catch something new every time. Allen's main objective is to make sure his cities are represented well, and that others may join him in making Orlando a hip hop power house.

Watch Allen York's music video to "Ghetto Gospel" below.
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Product Review: Hard Candy Color Correct Collection + MAJOR #GIVEAWAY!!! [CONTEST CLOSED]

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 20:54:00 +0000

[sponsored post, however these words are from my honest opinion] Hey beauties, I have a new product review! I was recently sent a lovely package from the affordable cosmetics brand, Hard Candy. The brand released a series of powders, primers and concealers in six various colors that hide those pesky little imperfections.

Of the six items within Hard Candy's "Color Correct" collection, I received the Color Correct Radiant Primer in Green and the Color Correct Expert Stick in Lavender (my fave) and Yellow.

The Radiant Primer had no true effect on my skin and was too "watery." I like my primers to have more of a slightly creamy/moisturizing "texture." This primer soak right into my skin without covering my blemishes. I would rather use the Cremé Wand, the Custom Blend Expert Palette and/or the Expert Stick.

So let's discuss the Color Correct Expert Stick. I loved this product! I used the lavender to brighten underneath my eyes before applying my foundation and fell instantly in love with it. It was creamy and the application was very smooth. For only $5.00, it's worth the money.

Now for the fun part! Starting today and ending on next Tuesday, I'm giving on ONE LUCKY READER the chance to win products from Hard Candy's "Color Correct" collection!!! This is what you have to do to enter this giveaway:

1. Follow @thecrypticbeauty and @hardcandylife on Instagram.

2. Write "I want candy!" underneath the sweepstakes photo.

3. Share the post with a friend and viola! You're entered the contest.

Giveaway ends on Tuesday, May 2nd 12:00am. I'll announce the winner on our official Instagram the next day. Good luck beauties!

This limited edition line is available exclusively at Walmart and it targets coverage for skin problems such as acne, dry skin, dullness and dark spots in shades across the spectrum.

Read more about Hard Candy's "Color Correct" collection below.

Preview: Allen York to Release "Ghetto Gospel"

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 04:36:00 +0000

After releasing his latest single, "Clue Tape/Screw Tape" back in October, hip hop artist Allen York left his fans wondering "what's next?"

York took a small hiatus to perfect his artistry to present us with an impeccable new visual entitled "Ghetto Gospel." Produced by Dom?, "Ghetto Gospel" is the next single from York's forthcoming album, "Project Telescope."

I asked the emcee what was his writing/development process for creating "Ghetto Gospel," and this is what Allen York shared with me:

"So this whole thing started with me watching this director's videos, and his eye for capturing things in such a intense manner. I knew I wanted to work with him. So I knew I had to craft a new record so fit the vibe that I wanted the video for. I was searching for beats for a little then my man Dom? played this beat sample on IG. I hit him about it and he was fronting I can't lie. Music industry stuff. So two weeks later he told me I could buy the beat. From there I kinda wanted to just talk some fly shit, that was my main goal. Give them bars with reality in it. So the vibe was set before I even wrote the record, writing it was kinda easy."

Allen York just shared via Instagram today he will release the music video to "Ghetto Gospel" in two days!

On another note, New Jersey producer Dizzy Rambunctious dropped a new single "Rollin' Stone" featuring Allen York. The track comes from his recently released album "Wond3rland."

The spring/summer is looking good for Yorkie!

Habit Blcx to Release "Progress Is A Process 2" on April 12th + Watch "One Day" Music Video

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 04:19:00 +0000

#PIAP2 drops this Wednesday!!!!

Los Angeles based emcee Habit Blcx is gearing up to release his highly anticipated album, "Progress Is A Process 2" (pre-order via Bandcamp -- HERE), this Wednesday on April 12th. PIAP2 features tracks "Pledge of Allegiance," "Be Great" and fans-fave "One Day".

"Progress is a Process 2" shows exponential growth from his previous works and I cannot wait to hear the record in its entirety! When sharing what will be on PIAP2, Habit Blcx shares:

"The last 2 years have contributed to so much growth. I put it all in the album...good, bad, ugly and indifferent."

In the past two years, Habit Blcx quit his day job, changed his stage name, did a crowd funding campaign (raising close to $5,000), went on tour while starting a brand and released his EP "Progress is a Process."

"My creativity leads me to forgiveness and self forgiveness." - HB

Forgiveness, love, hope and perseverance are definite themes highlighted in PIAP2. Hear four exclusive tracks when you pre-order "Progress is a Process 2." Along with the three singles, listeners will also receive the song, "Dreams Cost."

A self proclaimed "Do It Yourself" enthusiast, Habit Blcx has released 3 independent projects and toured throughout the West Coast and parts of New York. Outside of shows and studios, Habit Blcx speaks to youth using the history of Hip Hop Culture to inspire them to explore their talents.

Blcx's life motto, "Progress is a Process" (#PIAP), is a mantra the emcee embraces to reminds one's self to be "patient, diligent and to keep building". His 2015 EP by the very same name highlights the journey he takes to balance the process of building/growing into the person he wants to become while enjoying his overall journey without losing morale...

PIAP2 follows that same journey, but we hear some moments of self-doubt when Habit Blcx questions the journey he's been on.

I said this before, I love the raw-openness of Habit Blcx's music and how he honestly express his feelings while inspiring others to growing.

Directed by Andric Brooker, Blcx released a music video to "One Day" last month where we see the young emcee roaming the streets of Los Angeles while reciting lyrics of optimism and hope....

"Between my writers block, lack of creativity, and all the madness that seems to be going on in the world, I found myself grappling with optimism. This is song is an ode to the spirit of resilience, and holding on to the hope that we all need." - Habit Blcx

Pre-order "Progress is a Process 2" here: https://habitblcx.bandcamp.com/. Watch Habit Blcx's music video to "One Day" below.

Beyoncé Shares Beautiful Anniversary Video, "Die For You"

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 04:19:00 +0000

photo credit: beyoncé

Happy 9th Anniversary Carters!

The number "4" is a very significant number for the Carters....especially today on April 4th. A day nine blissful years ago when the iconic couple tied the knot. Celebrating her 9th wedding anniversary, Beyoncé uploaded photos from her previous anniversary trip to the Grand Canyon last year with JAY Z and their adorable daughter, Blue Ivy.

Along with these photos, Yoncé shared an updated version to a beautiful ballad entitled "Die For You" with a montage of clips expressing her love for her husband and their relationship.
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Double J Music presents "Acoustic Covers: The Album" - An Essential Collection of Reimagined Takes on Current and Classic Hits

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sat, 25 Mar 2017 21:33:00 +0000

Double J Music, an independent record label and production company based in the UK, released their wonderfully crafted compilation album "Acoustic Covers: The Album" (download from iTunes).

The album features 20 stripped-back, acoustic covers from established acts and upcoming talents. They have some key tracks on the album, including Jennifer Ann "Mad World" from the current Lloyds television campaign; "As Long As You Love Me" from Sleeping At Last, along with tracks from some of YouTube's biggest cover artists like Alexa Goddard, Rajiv Dhall and Nicole Cross. The album hit #1 in the singer-songwriter pre-order chart on iTunes before its release this past Friday!

Speaking about the release, James Kinnear from Double J Music says:

"What drew us to these songs is the way each of the artists transformed the originals into something completely fresh and new. To take a party track like Cheerleader, and turn it into a heartfelt piano ballad - that’s the basis of what makes this concept so special."

Double J Music is an independent record label and production company based in London, UK founded by J&J Kinnear. In 2016 they launched the Spotify playlist network ‘Listd’, and in less than a year have built up over 60,000 followers across their playlists. With Listd, Double J have managed to create an active platform on Spotify to promote new emerging talent alongside the world's biggest artists and bands. Listd is now one of the fastest growing playlist network on Spotify, reaching thousands of listeners each day.

Read more from the press release below!