BEYONCE ALBUM REVIEW

Okay, so here we go. I haven't anything blogging related in a while, so I thought I would get back into it. Hopefully somebody likes this. I was thinking about doing videos, but I know I'm super self conscious and don't have an adequate place to film in my apartment. BUT, that's not what I'm here to talk about.

BEYONCE. Beyonce, girl, why did you do this to me? Let me tell you, I stan for the baddest bitch on this planet, who snatched wigs and edges and made everybody #BOWDOWN. She let these young women "Work", "Wreck Balls", "Applaud" and "Roar", but NO ONE snatched like King Bey did. When I first heard of this phenomenon that is the secret Beyonce album, I was sitting in the very room I am writing this on and was just surfing the net, when my roomie Kira, came in and said Beyonce had an album out. Now, of course, like most Beyonce fans, I wasn't believing that because people had been saying that Beyonce was going to have an album out months ago, so I figured if Beyonce was going to put an album out, it would've been sometime next year. BUT BITCH, when I looked on Itunes, clear as day, there she was in all of her glory, BEYONCE the visual album, for $15.99. Needless to say, I had a mini-freak out and bought it right on the spot and haven't been listening to anything else since. 

Beyonce's new album, to me, sounds like the music she always wanted to make. She has stepped into her "Grown Woman" shoes and is saying "I'm here damnit, and this is what I'm gonna sing about. Like to hear it? Here it go." The album itself could be split into a double disc production, like I Am...Sasha Fierce, but include one half for the inspirational ballads and the other half for music you play in the bedroom. *hint, hint*

However, I'm going to go through this album, because I think it is amazing and give you the breakdown of each song and the videos. 

1. PRETTY HURTS. So Beyonce's 5th studio album starts when a inspirational ballad entitled "Pretty Hurts". Within the lyrics of the song, Beyonce sings about how a woman's looks is more important than what she has to say or what she wants in life. I like how the song opens with a beauty pageant judge asking her what she wants in life, and her response is simply, "to be happy". I think this song correlates to the look-ist society we always are living -- always striving to be the best looking, when beauty is a privilege that is fleeting. Beyonce's vocals are amazing on the song, especially towards the end of the song, but what sold me on this track was the video. The music video for "Pretty Hurts" is set in the beauty pageant world, with Beyonce participating and being subsequently broken down to win the pageant (which she doesn't). In the video we see Beyonce working out in a tight corset and weighing herself, going in for plastic reconstruction, fighting with other pageant girls, throwing up the toilet, and just being completely unhappy. I loved the message in the video and song and its slowly becoming one of my favorites. 4/5

2. HAUNTED. Now, I've heard many conflicting things about this song in particular, but I love it. It is so different than anything I've heard Beyonce sing about, and the fact that its 2 songs in one makes it one of my favorites on the album. The song starts with "Ghost", where Beyonce channels spoken word to convey her message. The video for this song in particular is my absolute favorite for the video portion of the album; its so artistic, but simple and I couldn't ask for anything else. The song leads into "Haunted", with the heavy bass and (in my opinion) Afrocentric beat. This starts the middle portion of the album that could've been saved for the bedroom; and I can't help but groove when this comes on. The video channels Madonna in the back-back days, with Beyonce in some sort of haunted house, in her version of a tux walking through the halls to see some very odd things in the rooms. With Beyonce singing on the screens, who wouldn't say this isn't a banging ass video? 5/5

3. DRUNK IN LOVE (FT. JAY-Z). Another one of my favorites, definitely meant for someone special. I do think is adorable how 10 years ago it was "Crazy in Love" and now its "Drunk in Love". With a feature from husband Jay-Z, I could quickly see this as a #1, at the very least on the urban charts. To be honest, when I heard this preview on Itunes, this is the song that made me want the album. The video, classic black and white, with Beyonce looking fine as hell in a bathing suit on the beach (I told Kira that if I have a baby, I want to look like her when its said and done). I love the beat on the song, the synths, and Beyonce rapping is EVERYTHANG! Her Texan twang comes out in full effect, and a little rap verse from Jay-Z to tie it all together. 5/5

4. BLOW. Beyonce's ode to oral sex is subtle but blatant in this little diddle. The song channels a late '70s, early '80s sound to it, with a nice little change up in the middle of the song to something that sounds Rick James inspired. "Blow" reminds me a bit of "Lay Up Under Me", that Beyonce recorded for her 4 album in 2011. The video is full of color and cameo from the best sister in the world, Solange Knowles (my hairspiration). Set at the skating rink, the colors and neon lights easily makes this another one of my favorite videos. The video actually made me like the song a whole lot more than I did upon first listen. Beyonce dancing in roller skates sold it for me. 

5. NO ANGEL. To be honest, this was not one of my favorites when I first heard it. However, one particular part in the song made it another one I can't live without. "Tell me if you wanna riiiiiiiiiddddddeeeeeeee." (YAS BEY!!!) Its a very mellow song, that people have said reminds them of something Prince could've done, but to me it channels Mariah Carey in her Butterfly days and late 90s R&B. The video, I could live without. Nice that's its a ode to Houston, but I could watch it once and not wanna look again. The cameos from Houston natives were a nice add (Paul Wall where you been?), but its not a video I particularly like. 3/5

6. PARTITION. LISTEN!!!!!! If there is one song on this ENTIRE album that I would say is my favorite, damn it this would be the one! Like "Haunted", this is a song that incorporates 2 songs into one. The song starts out with "Yonce", with Bey rapping and letting you know your man wants her and your woman wants to be her. The beat and the horns in the background make it an instant jam session. The video featuring some of the best Black models in the business, just makes it that much better. The song leads into "Partition", with its heavy bass, while Beyonce croons about getting it on in the back of the limo. When mama said, "I don't need you seein' Yonce on her knees", I was dead on the floor. That proved to me that Beyonce said "fuck it" and shed that cookie cutter image she's been upholding for a while now and decided to show off her sexuality. The video, with its colors and Beyonce, once again, looking sexy as all get out makes this another one of my favorites. Once I saw Beyonce on the pole, I died and needed to be revived again. (Why did you do this to me Bey? I know that video had many questioning their sexuality.) Definitely a fan favorite, and I do think this should be one she releases to the public, but who knows? I hope she does, though. 5/5

7. JEALOUS. I won't lie, not one of my favorites on the album, but still a good song nonetheless. Here the B sings of being "Jealous" of her partner, a-la "If I Were A Boy", 2.0. The video is also one I could live without. However, when she through the food off the table was everything for me. (BTW, the people on the street. Were they actors, or were they genuinely surprised Bey was on the street? I need answers.) 3/5

8. ROCKET. I can feel the sweat building in here. Reminding me of D'Angelo's "Untitled (How Does It Feel)", another one of my favorites. Classic R&B song, and an updated Speechless...Speechless 5.0, if we will. Another black and white video, all slow motion with Beyonce in lingerie, in the bed, and in the shower. *Starts to sweat* Bey, girl, you took me out. However, the video ends halfway into the song, and the last parts of the song are where Beyonce sings to "punish" her. Beyonce, listen. I was NOT ready for that. 5/5

9. MINE (FT. DRAKE). This song is conflicting for me. I like the very beginning with Beyonce singing and just the piano playing, but then it turns into a Drake song featuring Beyonce, and I don't know how to feel about it. Not saying that it isn't a good song, but I could do without Drake on the song (and that could be just because I'm not a Drake fan). But the video is great, and extremely artistic. What was up with the people kissing with t-shirts on their face, though? 3/5

10. XO. A great cross over song that really has to grow on me. It sounds very Katy Perry-esque, but that also doesn't mean it absolutely terrible. The very is super cute, with Beyonce and friends at Cony Island partying with fans. All the colors and Bey just enjoying herself make the video fun and light. 3/5

11. ***FLAWLESS. TRAP MUSIC!! (Kidding.) However, another one of the albums uptempo and urban inspired songs. The song starts with "Bow Down", which Beyonce took a lot of heat for earlier this year. The middle of the song is accompanied with a snippet of a speech by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie entitled "Why We Should All Be Feminists", which made its rounds on tumblr months ago and caught my attention. The last 2 minutes of the song end with ***Flawless, and is sure to an anthem for all women next year. I can imagine Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook full of "I woke up like this...flawless #nofilter". The video is another black and white, with Bey and others at a big ass moshing event. Whatever the case, the dancing was fun to watch, and Hood Bey is always wanted and needed. 5/5

12. SUPERPOWER (FT. FRANK OCEAN). I may be in the minority, but I'm glad Frank Ocean wasn't super present on this song. I'm just not a big fan of his music; it all just seems like something you listen to when you're going on a bad trip. However, I do like the song and it reminds me of the Etta James era in song style. In the accompanying video, Beyonce and her masked main man, are leaders of a revolt. Lots of slow motion walking and vandalism, which special appearances from Pharrell and fellow Destiny's Child band members, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams. 4/5

13. HEAVEN. A great ballad with the simple production and amazing vocals. This song, in particular, always makes me tear up at the end because it songs like she's crying when she sings, "So go on/Go home". The video is centered around Beyonce and her lovely dancer, Ashely Everett, doing lots of best-friend things together like going to weddings and driving with the top down. Scenes also include Ashley doing an interpretive dance and Beyonce at a cemetery and inside of a church. 4/5

14. BLUE (FT. BLUE IVY). Last song of the album is Beyonce's little ode to her little girl, Blue Ivy Carter. The song is based around Beyonce being fulfilled when she sees her little girl, and ini general the joys of parenthood. The video is based in Brazil (I believe) showing off the culture and the beautiful people. The last few seconds of the song include the super adorable Blue Ivy singing "Hold on to me", and laughing, while a amused Beyonce laughs in the background. (I didn't know Blue Ivy knew how to talk...Jeez, it seems like she was just born.) And of course, the video shows us fully, Blue Ivy in all her glory. 

OVERALL VERDICT: 5/5

All in all, I love the album and haven't been listening to anything since midnight Friday, December 13, 2013. As far as I know, the album has sold over 800,000 copies and of course will be the #1 album on Billboard for weeks to come. I'm hoping my the end of the week it sells over 1.2 million, which is the record set for Taylor Swift. I WANT BEY TO BREAK THE RECORD! I feel like those who have Androids and those who don't want to buy the album on Itunes will be buying it when it comes in hard copy (whenever that happens). Bey has already broken the Itunes record, and the critics reviews are saying this is one of her best albums yet. Dropping the album out of the blue like that was definitely brilliant on her part, and focuses more on the full album, instead of the steroid filled "singles" industry we've currently been experiencing. 

It's a great album and I encourage you to at least listen to it. #KINGBEY

Twilight Review

Well thanks everyone for giving their opinions on what I should write about this week. It's way overdue, I know, just so much as been going on this week (and quite frankly I've been too lazy, and having writers block).

Now, here's the thing. I've read most of the Twilight series, and in the 9th/10th grade, was excited that they were going to make a movie of the books. Looking back on it now, as an almost 20-year-old, I realize that Twilight is not something that should equate to an epic romance. Just to get my mini rant out of the way about the movies -- they suck. I don't like the actors, I don't like the screenplay, I don't like the direction the movies took at all. Seeing as though the screenwriter(s) and director(s) didn't have much to go off of in the first place, its a miracle that the movies could even be made.

I will say this...the books (or what I did read) were better than than the movies; most of the time they always are. My main problem with Twilight lies in the 3 main characters: Bella, Edward, and Jacob. And whilst doing this rant, I had to look up the synopsis of some of the books, because I could not remember what the hell happened in them. (That should show you right there how awesome they are at keeping your attention) So here we go:

Simply put, Twilight is about having a boyfriend. That's it. Throughout the entire series, Bella has this obession with Edward, and vice versa. Its almost extremely creepy to have these two, seemingly 'opposites attract' characters being completely obsessed with each other. More often than not, I really don't see what draws Bella and Edward together. What do they have in common? In my opinion, if I'm with a guy and all he wants to do is look at me all the fucking time and we can't go out anywhere, what kind of relationship is that? All that draws Bella and Edward together is the shit Bella seems to get into after fooling around with Edward. Attack after attack happens when Bella is with Edward, and it seems like he makes her life a lot more complicated than it has to be. Also, there's no character development. None of these characters are relatable in any way, shape, or form to anyone reading the book. One is a obessive fangirl (Bella), one is a manipulative control freak (Edward), and one is a love-sick idiot (Jacob). The way that Meyer describes vampires and werewolves (wouldn't Jacob be a shapeshifter?) is confusing, and its all a clusterfuck of all the things to not do in a relationship.

The only thing more annoying than having to read about this stupid ass relationship is, if you dig deep enough, what it teaches people about relationships. As I mentioned before, Bella is obsessed with Edward. In the second book, when Edward leaves out of the clear blue fucking sky, any normal girl would be like, This sucks. Let me sad about it for a bit and move on with my life. But no, not Bella. She sits in a depressed state for months at a time worried about Edward, who just left her OUT OF THE CLEAR BLUE FUCKING SKY. What more does she need to understand that this is not a healthy relationship for her to be in? Including that fact that he is a vampire, he treats her like dirt too?

I also feel like Edward is a manipulative control freak. Everything has to be his way, or no way, and I hate how Bella always folds to what he wants. Can't she ever get a voice of her own? Stephanie Meyer says the book is about choices, and I would have to disagree with her. How is the book about choices when the only choice Bella ever makes in the novel are one's that are influenced by Edward's feelings about them? She can't ever make a decision on her own life without seeing how Edward will feel or fit into her plans.

And sorry to say, as the series goes on, the writing gets worse. I could barely make it through New Moon and quit Breaking Dawn half way through. At some point, I got tired of reading of how much these two fucking love each other.

The only person I feel sorry for is Jacob. He is the classic example of friendzoned, or in newer terms, and emotional fluffer. Once Edward leaves (once again out of the clear blue fucking sky), Bella turns to Jacob, who always liked her. She confines in Jacob (and does all this stupid shit to see 'visions' of Edward while with Jacob) and he becomes something like a boyfriend, something like a best friend. Now, once Edward comes back into the picture, Bella basically says, Yeah, Jake...about that relationship that we might have had...its over now that Edward's back. FRIENDZONED

I could see how the Twilight series could appeal to people, because of the romance factor..striving for the 'romance novel-movie perfect' relationship that doesn't exist. Also the movies are popular because the cast is semi-attractive people. But, let's come back down to Earth...please. Twilight is not a book that will be remembered forever, like the novels they make us read in high school. I would just die if any book from the Twilight series is a required reading book for any classroom.

On Facebook, let me know what you think of Twilight, or any other love story. Do you think they present a 'real-life' view of relationships? The same argument could be used for Romeo and Juliet. 

Happy New Year!!

Welcome to the New Year!

Its offically 2013. We have survived the Mayan Apocalypse and a Fiscal Cliff! Many things have happened over the past year, and I am glad and blessed to still be on the right track. However, with the new year comes New Year Resolutions.

Yes, I know. Everyone says their going to do something great and wonderful at the beginning at the year, and my February the resolution is done and forgotten about. However, I am deciding to let you all know what my 2013 resolutions are and hopefully stick to him for the remainder of the year.

1. Working Out. Yes extremely cliche, but I need to get it right and tight for the summer time. There is no excuse, being as though I have a free gym on campus, that I cannot work out at least twice a week. Last semester I couldn't because I was working, but I think that chapter is over for me. I'm going to devote myself to my studies this semester, and since that means more free time, I'll have more opportunities to work out.

2. Improve My Grades. As stated in the last resolution, I was working the fall semester, and my time was usually spent going to class and going to work. No time to study, no time to hang with friends. So, now that I know I can't slack like I did this semester, I'm going to shape up and really take the initiative to do better in class.

3. Keep Rocking the Natural 'Do. Can you believe its been a year? My hair has grown SO much and I'm so excited. To be truthful, I don't like my hair straight anymore now that I have my hair natural. I'm going to keep my hair like this and hopefully grow it even longer so I can reach my hair length goal!

Well those are it for me! I have started with the first resolution by buying exercise clothes. Once I feel a bit better, I'm working it out on the Wii Fit and get my body right for the summer.

This is just the start of my weekly (it might become bi-weekly) blogs. Hopefully someone likes them, and likes what I have to say, whether its about a tv show, musical artist or random news event. Maybe someone could give me ideas about what I could blog about. I'll take requests! :)
And I think that each blog should end with a question so that a discussion could be had in the comments on Facebook. So, like any start of the year, here is my question to you all:

What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Justice for Trayvon Martin

I guess this is the post to currently write out all my feelings, because at this point I am completely enraged, even though I try to hide it. I'm going straight off of emotion, so there is no proofreading or stopping...I'm just writing how it comes to me.

Trayvon Martin...Where to even begin? The case in itself is all fucked up, and not only does it have to with racism in America, but also the fucking politics that comes with a name.

I know everyone has heard about the case, so I don't feel the need to recite the facts over and over again. However, there are things about the case, in particular, that really don't sit well with me. (I warn you now, there will be a lot of profanities in this post, so read on if you dare.)

The 911 call. I can't listen to the whole thing, because it really saddens me to hear Trayvon crying out for help, while the person is trying to tell police what is going on. George Zimmerman claims that it was him screaming for help in the background, but anyone with a good ear and common sense can tell that the voice heard is of a young man, NOT an old ass person. To have the nerve to use the 911 call as an advantage to get himself out of the fucked up situation he got himself in baffles me.

The arrest record. You know what, I have come to the conclusion that the only reason that Zimmerman is not arrested yet is because of his fucking parents. If it wasn't because his parents are employees of the federal court system, his ass would have been in jail YEARS ago. But because his daddy is a retired judge, he can persuade the police in Sanford to do whatever he wants them to do. What I don't understand is how does Casey Anthony, a woman who was ACCUSED of killing her own child not arrested, but this man who we all know killed Trayvon is NOT ARRESTED YET. I need an ANSWER. It doesn't come together AT ALL.

The Sanford Police Department and the 'Stand Your Ground' Law. These fucktards at the Sanford Police Department really should be on the shit-list of EVERY FUCKING FLORIDA RESIDENT. They FAILED at their jobs, letting this man go and not questioning him further on the events of that night. The 911 dispatcher told him not to follow Trayvon, and what did he do? The followed and killed him anyway. The 'Stand Your Ground' law is the stupidest fucking thing I have ever heard of, and the Sanford Police Department and Zimmerman's lawyers are trying to twist the words of the law, citing that Zimmerman had the right to kill Trayvon. If ANYONE had the motive of self-defense, it was Trayvon. Zimmerman basically stalked him, and invaded his grounds. Trayvon, in my opinion, had every right to defend himself from Zimmerman. Now, the head of the police department wants to step down. His ass should have been fired for not doing his job! As a cop, your job is to protect the people. If all the evidence, not circumstanial evidence, but SOLID evidence points to this man, then why not arrest him?

Joe Oliver. This FUCKING UNCLE TOM PAID SPOKEPERSON BITCH ASS MOTHERFUCKER!!!!!! It is clear as day to me that the person that the Zimmerman's hired to try to bring to light that Zimmerman is not racist, is the fucking worst attempt I have ever seen. This man probably doesn't know Zimmerman from a can of paint, and is going on CNN, MSNBC, and all other news outlets trying to convince the public that Zimmerman was acting in self defense. Do you know he had the nerve to say that his 17 year old daughter said that coon is a term of endearment?? If that wasn't the straw that broke the camels back for me, then I don't know what was. I am from a predominatley black area. I have NEVER heard anyone use the word coon in the way that Zimmerman used it. I was clearly a term to belittle Trayvon's character by saying "fucking coons". This man cannot be serious. He is the epitome of greed, ignorance, stupidity that I have EVER seen.

Racists. Or more known as the people trying to spin Trayvon into some thug who assulted and attacked Zimmerman. I don't see how the evidence is clear as day to these people, yet they still refuse to believe that this boy is innocent. It really makes me upset, and I know I shouldn't be, when people make ridiculous racist comments. Why can't black people be innocent? From what I see, white people commit the most crimes, kill the most people, brainwash and corrupt the minds of individuals on a LARGE scale everyday, but we can't be innocent? It pains me to know that, even though I knew racism still exists, it is so prevalent in my age group. People on Twitter making racial comments, and they are my age. Sometimes, I can't even blame them, I blame their fucking stupid ass, bango motherfucking redneck ass parents. What makes it even worse is that other minorities hate on each other. What is that? We are all opposed people. What does hating on the next group DO for you?Someone even commented that since Zimmerman is Hispanic, he can't be racist. WHAT KIND OF LOGIC IS THAT??? EVERYONE CAN BE RACIST!!! There is no defending a man who clearly acted in a fit of rage over Trayvon's outfit, skin color, or even Zimmerman's mentality of 'rent-a-cop' superhero. I just find it funny that the color of my skin, something I can't change, effects you so directly. I don't comment on the stupid ass ignorant shit I see white people do on the DAILY, so why do I have to be subjected to the sterotypes of black people. With that, I'll say this, not all white people are racist. In fact, many of them aren't. I have AMAZING friends, who happen to be white, and they are the most down to earth loving people, who care about me no matter what my skin color is.

To sum it all up, justice needs to be served...NOW. Not 2 weeks from now, but right the fuck now. It has gone on too long, and I'm afraid to say that if it doesn't there might be crazy ass riots happening all over the place and the beginning of something bigger.

Hopefully though, to keep it on a positive note, that won't happen and a jury will convict him of the right cause.

Workouts

Work outs. I know, I hate them. However, with recent developments (and all this damn college food), I think I need to start going to the gym.

But when I go, I don't want to be looking like a sad lost puppy, asking "What am I supposed to do?" I really find that's embrassing, considering the MANY people who frequent my school gym know exactly what they want to do and how to do it. I have been scouraging the internet, trying to find exercises for teens, and women. However, these searches seem to be futile.

Watching my roommate and her boyfriend do P90X, makes me think I really need to start working out and getting in shape for the summer. (Although, I seriously doubt I'll be going to anyones pool or beach. But we'll see.) I want to be in shape, which is a big difference from being thin.

When I tell people I need to work out, they look at me like I've lost my mind, especially my high school friends. I mean, whenever I would tell them that I'm out of shape or something in this category, I really think they thought I was lying. I may be thin, but that doesn't mean in shape. I'm okay, sure. But, I really want to get into a routine of working out. If I establish this routine now, then I can be in shape as I get older and gain weight. I don't wanna be 30 years old, looking severly out of shape or overweight. That's not even old enough to look that way!

Whenever I usually go to the gym, I get on the bikes or the treadmill, but that only works my legs. I want to work my abs especially, to get them flat. Its not a muffintop or pudgy or anything, but its something I want to work on.

Maybe I'll search some more and find something. =)

Currently...

Hello again!

Long time no hear from. I have been contemplating making a blog post for some time now, and realized, I have absolutely nothing to talk about. Nada. Zip. None. I guess I feel like I should only write when something exciting happens, but then that would be next to never.

So, some updates with myself.
 1) I am back in school. Yeppers. I am offically back on Towson soil. I have been back in B-More for about a week now. Its been extremely interesting, to say the least. I have been making more of an effort to communicate with my friends on campus, seeing as though I felt so "out of the loop" last semester. I have the nack to isolate myself from people, because I like my personal space, but there comes a point where I just want to be included. So there's that. Secondly, I like all of my classes. My boring chemistry professor just left, so now I have an awesome one, who is considerably more intersting than the last. My classes end all before 4:00p.m, so I have a very easy schedule that doesn't take up most of my time. I am taking CHEM 105, SOCI 101, PSYCH 101, PHIL 101, and ENGL 102 this semester. These are pretty easy classes, but the only one I don't like is my philosophy class. The professor is so freaking BORING!!! I hate even mustering up the energy to go to class on Tues./Thurs.
 2) TU After Dark was so much fun! So we had an event on campus the Friday of the first week of classes called TU After Dark. I met some really cool girls there, and me and my friends had fun, although someone was being a sourpuss, but whatever. -__- The point is I had fun, and that's all that mattered. There was lines for EVERYTHING, though. And the lines took forever to move. They had karaoke, mechanical bulls, game show, live animal show, and other things that were really cool.
 3) Natural for a month! Yep. You heard me right. I really thought by this time I would have reverted back to my old ways and put heat on this hair, but nope! I am officially off of it! I have not applied heat to my hair in over a month. I'm so excited! I really think I can keep this up, and just let my hair grow naturally. It seemed to have grown a lot in my problem area in a little over a month, so just wait until May! My hair will be awesome-ly grown out by then. I'm still doing the coil outs on my hair, since I had more of a tapered style it looks better, and it hides the problem area extremely well. Everyone compliments me on my hair and I LOVE that. Not to sound superficial or anything, but I was really unsure about leaving my hair in its natural state, since ALL people have seen me with straight hair and seem to like that rather than curly hair. But, I like it, and now that others have acknowledged that I look good with it, I feel great about my decision.
 4) Videos. I started doing youtube videos, but then I figured, what's the point? I think a blog is good enough for me right now. I don't like to have my image out for many people to see. However, I do have one video up, and its a video response to one of my favorite Youtubers, 4itsrox. I did like 4 videos after that, but took them down. I was just bored and needed something to do, and those were it.
 5) Sociology experiment. I just got an assignment for my sociology class to basically do something out of the norm and write a brief assessment on how other people reacted towards you and how you felt about breaking the normal code. So, I asked on the book of faces (Facebook) and decided that I should sit cross legged in an elevator in Tower C, where my friend stays and see how people react to me. I think I would have one friend in the elevator with me, just for support, but they would ride and act like they don't know me, while I sit on the floor. I think it could be interesting.

It was snowing when I came in from class, like 45 minutes ago, but I'm not sure if it still is. I want something to stick so I don't have to go to my 8am tomorrow.

Off to do homework. Buckets of fun! -_________-

My Thoughts On SOPA

Hey! Maryam wanted me to talk about the SOPA Act, so I decided to make a video!! Check it out!
These videos should be more than the actual blogs, because I can just talk to the camera and go with it. So, expect to see these more often!

Nicki Minaj...Girl What Are You Doing?

Hello everyone!

Coming in really quickly to give you my review on Nicki Minaj's "Stupid Hoe" video. Check the video below, it says everything.

Oh yeah...And check out the actual video.

Post comments man!!!

New year and Natural Hair!

Well hello again!!!

Haven't written in such a long time. Been enjoying my carefree days of doing nothing before spring semester starts. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Its officially 2012!

I love the New Year. It give me a start to bigger and better things in the future. Its also a reminder to leave old drama and conflicts in the year behind me.

So with that all being said, the majority of this post is going to be on my hair. So, if you're someone who doesn't like reading/listening about hair, this post most certainly is not for you.

Well, let's start at the VERY beginning. I had been getting perms in my hair since I was about 8. (That's a shame.) Now, perms were great. Everyone in my family had perms. It made it easier to style, and you could get in water and your hair would still be straight and smooth. However, once i got a little older, I hated them. The constant putting chemicals in my hair, the burning and not being able to freely scratch my itchy scalp if I wanted. (LOL)

Well, let me stop there. I'm not saying perms are bad. My mother has had perms since I can remember, and she's always had nice hair. Same goes for my aunts and my cousins. All their hair is beautiful, even with the perms in it. So, don't take this as a "I HATE PERMS" post, because it isn't. When I had perms in my hair, I really liked it for what is was worth. No worries about sweating it out, or even getting my hair wet, because it would still be straight.

So jumping back into the story, being a freshman in high school, I will say, I didn't care about my looks at all. I wouldn't do right by my hair, not washing it for weeks and putting WAY too much heat on it. I decided in the 10th grade that I would stop with the perms and just let my hair be natural. I was going through what the natural community calls the transition stage. My hair was slowly growing out of the perm and becoming all natural. However, as the years went on, I constanly wore my hair straight, so no one ever knew I didn't have a perm in my hair. I had successfully straightened my natural hair without the use of perms!

However, all that heat on my hair began to take its toll. My hair would start to break, and so I decided in the summer of 2011 to just cut it all off. Most people have seen my short cut and knows what it looks like and my hair was completely natural then. I still didn't learn from the past and continously put much more heat on my hair, especially since I went to college, and didn't have my hairdresser in my back pocket to do my hair every week.

Coming back home for the winter break, I noticed that I had done DAMAGE to my hair, so bad, that it was severly breaking off. From that moment, I really decided to forget all of the heat, and go FULLY natural, rocking my hair the way it grows and not giving a damn what anyone has to say about it. I really think that being natural, in its little way, has made me empowered. I can walk out my house in the style I want to wear it, and not care at all what someone else has to say.

I really feel that (although I don't want to get to deep into it, because at the end of the day, its only hair) all people, have been conditioned to wear their hair a specific way all their lives. For me, it started when I was 8, with my first perm, and I just was conditioned to think that every person wears their hair straight all the time. Now that I'm older, and I know that not all people have the same style, texture, etc. of hair, it gives me confidence to do what I want and to not listen to the many people who will bring me down over a superficial thing like what I choose to do with my hair.

Hair Regimen

With this natural journey, I have decided to fully research and see what I can do to grow my hair effectively and healthy. So, I have firstly determined that my hair is a really wierd texture. Let me explain, if you look on the curl chart:

I'm some wierd inbetween of 3c and 4a. Secondly, I have to buy all new products and find new ways to style my hair other than using heat. I will say that Youtube has been my best friend in my whole process. Its only been like a week with no heat, but I will say, I plan to be fully committed to this new journey I'm taking.

So,(for those who care) I have 4 products that I will be using religiously.

The first is Creme of Nature" Detangling and Conditioning Shampoo.

As a natural haired person, it is important to detangle your hair, because it can get really brittle and dry and tangle-y. So, I purchased this becasue of the detangling component, and because it contains Sunflower and coconut oils, which are good for the hair.

The second is Lustrasilk Shea Butter Conditioner.

So, a little 2 little birdies told me that shea butter and olive oil is good for the hair, on the book of faces. (aka Facebook). So, I thought, "Well, if its good for the hair, why not just buy a conditioner of shea butter!" And that's what I did! This conditioner is supposed to treat heat damaged and hydrates the hair, so I'm super excited because that is really what my hair needs.

The third is Coconut Oil.

Coconut oil is like the best thing on God's green earth. Not only does it had moisture to your hair, but it SMELLS SO GOOD!!!! I've been using this coconut oil on my hair FOREVER, but I didn't know you were supposed to use oils on wet hair??? Where they do that at? So, I've been using it to on my wet hair, as well as the dry hair. No need for dandruff over here!

Lastly, Elasta Op liquid styling gel.







This product is a lifesaver. Seriously...It doesn't make your hair all rough, dry and brittle when you put it in. I coiled my hair this weekend, (its messy now) and I looked like a hispanic. (No disrespect.) My hair was SUPER curly! I loved it. So, if you don't know about the gel, get into it.

So yep, thats it. For the first few days I cowashed my hair (wash your hair, but instead of using shampoo, use conditioner) but that didn't really do it for me. So the weekend I coiled my hair, and I really liked it! So we'll see how this natural hair journey goes! =D





A Whole Lot of Happiness

So currently, I am sitting in my mother's kitchen typing up this blog. It feels so good to be home. It's not like I don't like college, but my family are my best friends. I talk to them all the time, and its good that I am able to spend an entire month with them before I go back to school.

I recently got my final grades back. I currently have:
COSC 109: A
TSEM 102: A-
BIOL 190: B
MATH 115: B+

This puts me at like a 3.4, which is good because I am on the right track to getting into the Nursing Program. I really just wanted to right this blog so I can just share the good things about my life. It seems as though my last blogs were very down and cynical, so I wanted to counter balance that with all the good things happening to me. I have my health, my loving family (including my two dogs), and good grades to start the new year off right.

So, thats it. This post is short because we're getting our Christmas tree together and making dinner. I probably won't write anything most of the time I'm home, so if I don't see any of you during the break Merry Christmas (or whatever you celebrate) and Happy New Year!!!

Overexposed 2011 [No. 9]

Hello! Time for another addition of Overexposed. And finally something that I actually think has been extremely overexposed in 2011.

OVEREXPOSED NO. 9

THE ILLUMINATI

I really don't want to start my ramble on about the illuminati. I really don't. Because if I do, I'll get people who will come on here and say You need to open your eyes. Your being controlled by the illuminati. Their doing things and you don't even see. Look, I really don't give a flying f%$@ about anybody's illuminati. I don't. I really think people who believe in the illuminati are just really over paranoid people. I'm not going to sit here and say it doesn't exist, because who knows, it might.

My whole issue with people and the illuminati is when you just assume that an artist is apart of the illuminati. My first question is, why them? Why a celeb? If there really  is an illuminati controlling people, wouldn't be the top 1% of the world? The richest people? Not some lowly artist who wouldn't even compare to the money they have? I really get sick and tired of people over analyzing everything. And people who believe that artist are in the illuminati over analzye everything an artist does. When I see the illuminati subject come about I really want to ask: Why do you care? If they are, what the hell do you really think you can do about it?

They can't just all of sudden mind controll you. I just don't understand. Maybe someone should really sit down and explain it to me. Because I really, REALLY don't see it. Who actually sits and thinks that pop stars and rappers are planning to take over the world?! PLEASE, I REALLY NEED SOMEONE TO EXPLAIN. It just doesn't make sense at all. And even if they were, don't you think they would have done it by now? Music is extremely shitty, and you can become famous from just doing not too much of anything. I really think that if they were planning to take over the world, it would have been done by now. People have been talking about the illuminati for years now, so isn't it said that once you oust someone in a secret society, that would have to kill you? Wouldn't they?

If anyone is in the illuminati it would probably be the people your voting for, if the illuminati is even real. And in this context, I seriously doubt it.

Please, educate yourselfs and find out what the illuminati actually is, before you just go over analyzing and believing everything you see or hear.

Seriously, if they were, wouldn't you think the lyrics would be something about taking over the world in a sinister manner rather than "All the single ladies!"..... Just think about it.

Overexposed No. 9.....The Illuminati.

Expectations

So, I was just on another blog, (won't put the name out, because I don't think she wants people to know about it) and she was talking about expectations. The many expectations people have for you or the many expectations you have for others. I wrote like the longest comment of life on there and I decided to transfer it over because it pretty much sums up how I feel about most of the people who I interact with on a daily basis.
"Okie dokie. Lots to say here. So I completely agree with the two sides part. I can equally relate: people either think I'm "Holier than Thou" or a complete "Bitch", which is not true. I have many sides of me, just like everyone else and its only those who are really close to me who know the REAL me. I can be those 2 people and many more, if others would be open to getting to really know me, and not judging me by my reactions to a few situations.

Also, with the high and low expectations part. I mostly get the high expectations from my family (or my professors as well), which is more of a stressor than any other person could put on me.  I want to be the most perfect person (which I know can't be attained) for my parents, so they can be proud of me. But, I never really stop to think that they already are. I keep pushing and pushing to make sure that they know that I AM the best child they will ever have. (Seeing as though I am an only child.) Like for example, I just failed one of my biology exams recently, and my dad said something like "That's not like you." Now, right there, its him EXPECTING me to be absolutely perfect and get the perfect grades, when that is not the case all of the time.

And low expectations. Those mostly come from my friends. They expect me to be the "bitch" all the time, never taking into account, "Yes, I do have feelings like the rest of you." Probably moreso. I'm just extremely sensitive to EVERYTHING and so when you make a ignorant or nasty comment, I react on an extreme level. I try to work on it, but I've conditioned myself to behave like that because I don't want to get my feelings hurt when I let my guards down for people. I constantly get (especially from Donivan when I see him) "Your so much nicer now." I've always been this way. Its just your so stuck in seeing me in one light that you can't fathom that I actually have more sides than just the "bitch" or the "perfect little girl."

All in all, I completely get where your coming from on this one."

I just feel pretty confined to one box or the other when I'm around certain people. When its with the friends I hang out with the most its the "Bitch" box, and when I'm around family its the "Holier than Thou" box. Can't people understand that there are more than just one side of people?

I'm not saying that I don't deserve to be put in those boxes, because my behavior has shown accordingly. Many need to realize that just like you, I have a side that I don't like to constantly show. I never cry in front of people or show any type of sadness, and if I do, to most its perceived as anger. I will say this time and time again, I am EXTREMELY sensitive. Any little backwards comment you make in relation to ANYTHING about me, my friends/family, or anything that I have gone through or people close to me have gone through, I'm going to react, and not in the manner that is always appropriate.

My anger is more commonly shown to people because that side of me who is very fragile, I will not show. To anyone. Maybe my parents. But, I've been through enough disappointment in people, with the way they treat me or the things they've said about me whenever I let that side out. I guess in order to show the person I want to show to people, you have to earn it.  But, who really wants to wait that long? Should I keep on my "Bitch" face forever? Or come with my sensitive side and wait to see how people really treat me?

She also made a post about the expectations of people. I think I've lost that. I think its really sad that with the exception of maybe my grandparents, I don't put anything past anyone. Even my own parents. I recently found out something really shocking about one of my parents (I don't think I should share because its personal) and it just kind of solidified the already solid boulder of "Don't trust anyone. Don't expect people to be the person you thought they were, because they aren't." People will do you dirty quicker than shit, especially the ones who you think wouldn't. I understand people have flaws and are human, so showing any type of expectation for anyone, even myself, just seems futile. They'll prove you wrong time and time again. From being a child disappointed by my own parents, to being a teen disappointed by my closest family member (so I thought), and been a young woman sometimes disappointed in myself, I find it pointless to but an expectation on anything or anyone, because life will always throw you a curve ball to fuck you up.

I don't know. This topic hits home to me on so many levels. I want to say more about it, but I really think I've done it justice.

Post your comments! Have you ever been confined to one box before? Do people really know the real you?

Overexposed 2011 [No. 10]

***Hello again! Last post of today I promise. Um..quick updates in my personal life. (If you don't mind. Which I'm sure you don't. If you do.......your just rude.) I took 2 finals this morning/afternoon. I think I did pretty well on my food politics final. As for biology, I think I got most of the material right. The multiple choice got me a little bit, and the essay was a bit tricky, but all in all I think I did well. Lots of my friends are home already, and I can't wait to see them all! I come back home after everyone else: the 21st. But that's okay. Gives me a little space between today and my next final and then its on home for me! Also, if anyone cares: Chris Paul got traded to the Los Angeles Clippers and Kobe Bryant is getting a divorce. (I always thought that marriage was SET. Especially after his whole rape court case thingy, but I guess you never know what happens behind closed doors.)***

If you don't know, (and I'm going to tell you) I frequent Youtube a lot. Entirely too much. I like the people I watch on there, whether its for news (Sxephil), gossip (Sweetaddictionstv, TheSkorpionShow), or just for laughs period (ItsKingsleyBitch, Bee318ti, MuchLoveFromKY, JennaMarbles, etc.), I love me some Youtube.

ItsKingsleyBitch, or Kingsley for short, is doing the things, events, or people that were overexposed the most this year. Last year he did something similar, and Justin Beiber came in the #1 spot for the person most overexposed in 2010. So, since 2011 is now coming to a close, I decided I would hop on the bandwagon and release a blog post everyday commenting on what Kingsley's subscribers have said is the most overexposed thing for that day. Today, I'm starting with #10, but Kingsley has 2 previous videos chronicling numbers 12 and 11. So here we go!!! {I'm super excited! =) }

OVEREXPOSED NO. 10

BEYONCE

Now, I love me some Beyonce, and I really don't think she was too overexposed this year when she released her album like she was when  I Am...Sasha Fierce came out. (Single ladies anyone?) But, I guess I could see how she has been overexposed. First, she's been on break forever, and all of her fans have been waiting for her comeback album, myself included. (But, I'll get back to the album later) So earlier this year, Beyonce was caught up in the Gaddafi drama, with accepting money from his son to perform at private birthday parties and such. Now, I really don't think that her doing a performance for Gaddafi, seeing as though our government has been in talks with Gaddafi on a friendly level before, needs to be a story on CNN, but I guess.

Then her first single "Run the World (Girls)" leaked, and I was not happy with what I heard. Many weren't. It seemed like a song that Willow Smith would sing, not a woman who is almost 30. But, the video made me change my mind, and the song started to grow on me. "Run the World" was not a success on the Billboard charts, not even making it in the top 10, when people like Rihanna (Who have shitty songs. Let's be real.) make it in the top 10 everytime they release a single. People were beginning to speculate that maybe Beyonce's time was over, and that she really needed to sit her a$$ down and give Jay-Z some babies before he rots to death.

She perfomed everywhere this year. Oprah's final show, the Billboard awards (and was the best performance of the night), Good Morning America, Glastonbury, everywhere.Then, her entire album leaks. ( I didn't pay for the album either, but whatever.) The entire album. UGH...another way to mess up her era this time around.  But the album was really good. Surprisingly enough, because I didn't like the singles she came out with (Run the World, 1+1). I think its one of her best, so listen to it if you haven't already. I really think its one of the best albums of the year. (Kinda mad that the Grammy's didn't give her any nominations for that album AT ALL. I Am...Sasha Fierce was shitty compared to this album and this album gets NO nominations. *Forever side eye at the Grammy's*)

Beyonce all of a sudden starts releasing videos left and right: Countdown, Love On Top, 1+1, Best Thing I Never Had, Party, End of Time, and Dance for You. I'm secretly thinking "B...are you just releasing these videos to get your buzz up on this album? I mean it did good, not a good as Lady Gaga, but you sold more than Rihanna, so that does it for me."

Then, the coup de grâce, Beyonce performs at the MTV VMAs. She did Love On Top, and I thought, "Okay...that suit is going to come off and she is going to KILL Run the World." But no, she sings the entire song, which she did good, and right before the end of the performance I was like, "Is that it? Damn B..."

BUT THEN SHE HIT ME WITH THE MORTAL KOMBAT "FINISH HIM" TYPE MOVE. She opened up her coat and showed that she was pregnant. Yep. Pregnant. I was literally jumping up and down for joy, ran to get my computer and checked to see if it was true. And sure enough, Beyonce was preggers, a lot more than I thought actually, probably around 4 months. Twitter and Facebook blew up with the news of her pregnancy, and she's been all over the blogs strutting her baby bump. Beyonce's baby bump-gate became topic, when in an interview, it looked like her stomach deflated (To some people who have too much time on their hands. Like why are you so worried about what's going on in her uterus?) and many questioned if her baby bump was real. AND DAMNIT IT IS. Jeez.

 So whether it was the many road bumps it took to get that album out, 50,000 video releases, performances everywhere, or even a new baby, Beyonce has been all over the damn place this year.

Overexposed #10.......Beyonce.

Studying Playlist Part II

***Today, I really don't feel like giving a synopsis on why I like each song. It just seems like a lot to do. So instead I'll just put the songs in a list, and you just make your own opinion on why I like the song.***

Hello again! Back to do part 2 of my studying playlist. Firstly, I'd like to thank everyone who actually looks at this damn thing when I post the link on Facebook and comment on the blog posts. You guys are awesome! So without further adieu...The Studying Playlist Part II

15. Frank Ocean - Swim Good
16. Frank Ocean - American Wedding
17. Tyler, The Creator - Yonkers
18. Tyler, The Creator - French!
19. Tyler, The Creator - Sarah
20. Tyler, The Creator ft. Jasper Dolphin & Taco - Tina
21. John Legend - So High
22. John Legend - Ordinary People
23. John Legend - Heaven
24. Sade - No Ordinary Love
25. Outkast/Andre 3000 - She Lives In My Lap
26. Lauryn Hill - When It Hurts So Bad

There you have it! My Studying Playlist Part II. Hopefully you like the songs I picked, and if you have songs you listen to when doing work or studying leave it as a comment!

*BTW: I did listen to Beyonce's 4 album most of the time I've been here to get work done, but I decided to create a playlist for everyone's ears. And for those who really don't like Beyonce.*

Please Clean Your Ears

***Well I was supposed to update that playlist from Wednesday, but you know how studying goes. Yesterday (when is where my whole dilemma starts) I had a computer science final, which was very easy, and I got an A on it! Be proud of me! =) Then that night, I was studying for my biology final and seminar final which were at 8:00 am and 12:30, respectively. I should be doing something on the most overexposed things in 2011 (in favor of Kingsley on youtube), and putting up the second half of that playlist. So you guys get a lot today. YAY!!! Now, to this post.***


Chile, if I did not go through one of the most annoying things in my life today, I swear I wouldn't be making this a post at all. Let's start with a disclaimer. I do clean my ears. Everyday. Once I'm done in the shower, I take my washcloth and clean behind my ears and on the inside. Now, your not supposed to stick anything in your actual ear, so I guess you could say, I never clean that part because I was always under the assumption that it just cleans itself. Oh...MY.....GOSH was I wrong.

So starting well early yesterday morning, I rolled over in my bed just like any other person would, and my right ear popped. Yes, popped. You know that sensation that your ear goes through when you fly in a plane, or (for those who use the subway) when your in a tunnel and your ears get pressure and unclog themselves? Well thats what my right ear was doing, while I was laying in my bed. I seriously had no idea what to do, but just rolled over and thought nothing of it. So, as I'm getting up to take my 8:00 computer science exam, it popped. Again. I went throughout the entire day with my right ear popping when I would yawn, when I would burp, when I swallowed, even if I stretched too much. Yesterday night, I figured I'll just sleep it off and be fine in the morning. WRONG AGAIN. (Gosh, I'm wrong a lot in this story.)

So this morning, my ear pops again as I'm getting up. I decided (and excuse my language) I'm sick of this shit. I'm going to the health center and see if they know whats wrong with my ear. I had looked online early this morning, around 4:00 to see what the hell was wrong. The internet gave me: liquid in your ears or earwax. I was really hoping it was earwax so whoever was working on me could clean my ears and I could be out of there. So, I went and took my 8:00 biology exam, with my ear popping throughout the entire test. I hurried up and turned in my test, with an extra 30 minutes to spare (you know they give you 2 hours to take a final) and rushed my butt to the health center. When I got there, they did the preliminary stuff: height, weight, blood pressure, family history, etc.

When I went to see the doctor, I told him my ears have been popping and I have no idea whats going on. He looked in my ears and told me I have an extreme build up of earwax that was actually blocking him from seeing my eardrum. I still thought nothing of this. I thought if they do some zapppy thing and clean my ears out, I can be out of here. WRONG ONCE AGAIN.

The lady who cleaned my ears did something called irrigation. Which is:

1. Protect your clothing. Water is EVERYWHERE.
2. Mix together a solution of warm water and perioxide
3. Take a large syringe-like device and fill it up.
4. Stick in ear and push ALL that damn water out.

When I tell you I was thinking how the fuck is all that freakin water going to fit in my ears? I was terrified to say the least. When she did my right ear the first time (she did each ear a total of 3 times) all I could hear in my right ear was crackling. (Like rice crispy treat crackling. All up and through my ear) She told me "Its breaking down the wax in your ear. So now your ears will be clean and unclogged." She then did the other side and told me, "This side is really red. It seems as though you were getting starting to get an infection from all the wax."

Now don't get me wrong, it didn't hurt at all, but it was just something you don't want done. So the point of this post is to tell you guys, please clean the inside of your ears. It really helps your hearing (seeing as though I can hear really well now), and prevents you from going through the popping, partial hearing loss, or ear irrigation. All you gotta do is take perioxide from the dollar store and warm water, mix them together, and put like 2 drops in your ear once a week. That's it! And your free from any other health risks as far as your ears go.

This story may be gross to some, but I really needed to share. The doctor told me earwax buildup is the cause of many young people who have hearing loss, and sticking in headphones makes it worse, because it pushes the earwax and compacts it in your ear.

So, I know what I'll be doing every Sunday night from now on. I surely do not want to go through that EVER again. =)

New Blog and College Finals

Well, well, well....Here I am again. I call myself opening a new blog to calm myself/procrastinate from studying for my first ever set of college finals. I'm nervous just like the rest of my peers, trying to find any time to study for the final exams of my fall semester in college. Nervousness, anxiety, worries, almost-wanting-to-rip-your-hair-out-ness, and everything in-between starts to come into play when finals week comes around.
I have talked to my friends a lot more recently, and hearing their stories of all-nighters, studying for exams, doing projects and 5-10 papers, has got me thinking that college is extremely hard. (Well not really A LOT harder than high school, in my opinion, but just a lot more work.) So, to kick off my new blog, I have decided to share what helps me focus when I study. MUSIC.

I swear, music can make me focus on just about anything. Music and willpower, because if I don't want to do it, I won't. So in light of finals and my love of music, I have decided to share my personal studying playlist. The playlist is 28 songs long, so I broke it up in 2 parts.

Here we go: ( As I type this, I am actually listening to the playlist now :P )

***PART 1***

1. Maxwell - Lonely's The Only Company Now if you don't know anything about anybody's Maxwell, you live in another era. This song is one of the only songs I loved when my mother would play Maxwell when I was a kid. I remember being little, when I used to live in the apartment in District Heights and my mother would play Maxwell to death. I hated it. But now that I'm a bit older, I can appreciate his music. This song is actually from his first album released in the early 90s. A really slow song, but it's calming enough to get me to focus.

2. Esthero - I Drive Alone Not a lot of people know about Canadian singer Esthero. I actually started to listen to her music on accident. I didn't know who she was or what she looked like, but I knew I loved this song when I first heard it. Another slow-ish kinda song. I got to hear her sampler over the summer working for my cousin and this woman has serious talent. I wonder why she hasn't blow up yet? (BTW...she sings the song Wikked Little Girls. Ya know "wikked little girls, kiss the boys and make them cry...something, something, something.")

3. Kylie Minogue - Can't Get You Outta My Head Now I know everyone has at least heard this song sometime or another. I love this song. It makes me wanna dance in some rave type club! Its on my list because its a bit up tempo from the previous two songs. And just because I like the song so much.

4. Maxwell - Whenever Whereever Whatever Another slow song from Maxwell. This song is just to calm me back down from all the dancing in my seat from the previous song. And I just like the song because its one of the only songs I liked as a kid that my mother would continously play.

5. Trey Songz - Can't Be Friends One of the only Trey Songz songs (that was awkward. Songz songs..okay) that I like. All his other songs have become repetitive. "Ooo girl, let me show you how good I am in the bedroom." Boy that ship came and went with R.Kelly. Let's please get some material to your music. This song is one of the few gems that he has that no one really pays attention to. So I like the song, not because I relate to the lyrics, but because it actually has substance compared to his other songs.

6. Destiny's Child - She Can't Love You Now, I only think real Destiny's Child fans would know this song. From their album Writings on the Wall. (If you don't know that album...I officially have no words for you. ESPECIALLY if you are a Beyonce fan. No excuse for you not to know this album) Well this song, is one that is definately not a single from that album (unlike "Bills Bills Bills", "Jumpin, Jumpin", or "Say My Name") but still a great song.

7. Sade - By Your Side Another artist that my mother would play that I hated, but grown to love as an older young person. I like this song because its really easy to sing long to and makes you want to be like the people as concerts with the lighters swaying them back and forth. My mom actually went to go see Sade in concert recently. I heard she puts on a helluva good show! =)

8. Sade - Cherish The Day Another Sade song. I like this song for the guitar (I'm pretty sure that's what instrument I hear) and is another song to easily sing to.

9. Outkast/Andre 3000 - Take Off Your Cool My FAVORITE album if I could ever have one. Male or female artist, this album is the best of the best. The Love Below is seriously overlooked now. In its day it was the best album out, but since Andre 3000 has only made little apperances here and there and not with his own album I guess we can say this is his best. I do feel though that if he does come out with another album, it won't top The Love Below. But that's just my opinion.

10. Outkast/Andre 3000 - Love in War Although its a short song, another one of my favorites off of The Love Below. Hell, I might as well say the whole album had songs you could appreciate. Well this is one of them.

11. John Mayer - Your Body is a Wonderland Even though John Mayer is a racist SOB, he does make good music. Well acutally, I can only judge one album, Room for Squares. That was the CD my mother bought of his and the only one I've heard my him. I remember listening to this CD while trying to beat my video game on Xbox...I actually won too! Well this song is obviously his most known song and its a really good listen.

12. Beyonce - I Miss You Off of her newest album 4, this song stuck out to me when I first gave the album a listen. I remember playing this song over and over before listening to the rest of album. It's written by Frank Ocean (who is also on the playlist) and is really calm and a likeable listen. I actually think 4 is one of Beyonce's best albums. It SHOULD'VE BEEN nominated for Grammy's like I am...Sasha Fierce, but I won't get into that.

13. Monica - Love All Over Me This song is the only song I honestly paid attention to off of Monica's recent album release. I like it because it reminds of R&B from the 90s.

14. Frank Ocean - Thinking About You The last song in part 1 of my playlist. I first listened to the song in the summer after finding out who Odd Future is. I actually didn't like Novacane when I heard it (and still don't) but I actually liked this song when I first heard it and decided that Frank Ocean is okay with me. =)