Track Review of "Mononeon" from Album Testimonializm "The Symphony in J Minor"

Track Review of "Mononeon" from Album Testimonializm 

Cincinnati artist J-Skillz delivers us a groovy retro record on his album Testimonializm. With  production reminiscent of  Zapp (sampled in songs like California Love, Knockin Da Boots, Keep Ya Head Up). Paying homage to the originators of G-Funk, J-Skillz delivers relaxed, playful verses over varied guitar runs and finger snaps. Listeners will also here an influence of T-Pain's "Buy You A Drink" across the record as well, giving it a more modern but still dated flare. The song ends with a skit that gives preview of the rapper's comedic spins laced across the rest of the album.

This record and album can be found on major streaming channels everywhere.

Buddy: Reigning Prince of LA

Buddy: Reigning West Coast Prince

His rap moniker may conjure of thoughts of simplicity but this West Coast rapper is anything but that. Coming into the industry, being the last artist of Star Trek label at just 16 - we long waited his triumphant return. Harlan and Alondra debuts his array of talent and his maturity since we heard him rapping about his teenage misfit years.

Here’s what tracks I absolutely can’t get enough of:

• Shameless. Beginning with an intro that demonstrates his ups and downs while pursuing his love of music. The hook, the production, amplifies his persona while helping us to get a clearer vision of his goals as an artist.
• Hey Up There. Once again acknowledging that the road to success can get weary, he enlists the help of Ty Dollar $ign to illustrate that it’s not where they are, but where they are on their way to, that we should be in expectation for.
• The Blue. With smooth, souled vocals similar to Anderson Paak, Buddy croons on this track. Snoop Dogg joins him on this metaphoric soulful record.
• Speechless. Explicit about his intimacy skills, Buddy paints a surprisingly mature and vivid picture about his bedroom tricks.
• Trippin’. Buddy and Khalid deliver us honest about the journey they experience under the influence.

Harlan and Alondra is a must play for the summertime.

Single Review: Summertime by Meaux

New Orleans native Meaux, whose vocals have been used on Kid Rock's albums, who has been the opening act for performers like Darius Rucker and whose dance moves have brought her on stage with acts like Beyoncé - Meaux is breaking out on her own. Now that we’ve had a chance to gleam at her background, let’s get to her new record, Summertime.                                                                                                                                                              A melodic pop record with crisp percussion that carries a  sprinkled deep bass line. Meaux layers the track with a mid-range and at times breathy voice. Lyrically, the song appears to be about a reminiscing summer love that didn’t reach its full potential. Even  lyric reminiscent of Erykah Badu’s Next Lifetime with Meaux’s Line “maybe in another life, we can get it right".

While I have an strong appreciation for the cadence and production change in the bridge and feel that the expanding production at the end of the song will serve as a great way for Meaux to showcase her choreography - the mix quality and lyrics become hard to distinguish in the second verse. This clarity issue gives me some trouble following her love lost story. However, overall this record has the potential to be a good introduction for Meaux to showcase her many talents. 

For more information on  Meaux, click here.

Are You Considered a Yeller on Social Media?

Are you known as a yeller across your social media?

Some may be confused by this question because they may believe that in order for you to come off as yelling via written text you have to have exclamation points in your posts. Quite the contrary. If your social media is more of you constantly advertising your rates, mixed with buy nows and your discounts of the day- you're a yeller. You are the equivalent to a person with a bullhorn.

If you're a yeller, its very easy for you to get tuned out and people to get turned off by your messages. Try these tips in your next five posts and see the changes:

*Share your thoughts on a trending topic. For example if you're a budding restaurant owner talk about what inspired you or about your experience at another establishment.

*Thank your followers for following you. Realize that following others is a privilege

*Retweet if you like and agree with what you agree

*Share insight about your field or expertise

When you are a more talkative and becoming a source of information, more will gravitate towards in terms of followers, likes and customers.

The 1,2,3's of Entrepreneurship Book Review

Book Review: The 1, 2, 3s of Entrepreneurship 

Author: Shanti Das

Shanti Das took the leap of faith to start her expand her entrepreneurial wings within her hometown of Atlanta. While building her company, mistakes were made and often enough she considered throwing in the towel on her business pursuits. However she was able to stay motivated and resilient. By adhering to the wise counsel from established professionals in every industry, she was able to stay the course.  Shanti delves out thirty business and motivation tips to provide guidance and insight for today's business owner.

The tips that stick out to me:

-Never stop pitching. Your pitches may might not get an immediate yes, but a few months- or even a few years- down the road, the potential client may be interested in what you have to offer-Saptosa Foster & Shante Bacon from 135th Street Agency

-Excellence Begets Success. Integrity in your work is infectious. When you are excellent, people take notice, they respect you and will gravitate to you. Midwin Charles, Esq from Midwin Charles & Associates LLC, TV Legal Correspondent.

Check out more about this author, her book and her business:http://pressresetent.com/pre/about-us/ 

G.O.A.T.s Only Great As Their Teams

Lebron has amazed us with his ability to work his way to his 5th NBA Final. Making bold decisions, including figuring out whether to leave or stay with Cleveland. The masses want to appoint Lebron with the label G.O.A.T., but has he earned it yet?

In Phil Jackson's book, Eleven Rings, it breaks down the team dynamics that took the Bulls and Michael Jordan to championship heights. George Mumford helped Michael shift his perspective on being a leader of his team. George mentions that "It's all about being present and taking responsibility for how you relate to yourself and others.. and that means being willing to adjust so that you can meet people where they are. Instead of expecting them to be somewhere else and getting angry and trying to will them to that place, you try to meet them where they are and lead them where you want them to go."

Lebron and the Cavaliers have a lot of work to face off their opponents this June. May Lebron's leadership skills and his team's endurance help the odds ever be in their favor.

Picture from m.deseretnews.com
Lebron James

Examining Tyga's Mindset- Do you want to be famous or rich?

                                                                         (image from imgkid,com)

Opinions on Tyga vary across the board but I want to take the time to examine this lyric of his:

" I don't wanna be famous, I just wanna be rich..."- Tyga, 40 Mill 

This lyric stood out to me because it reminded me of the question my business partner and I would ask a lot of the artist that we worked with. Do you want to be famous or do you want to be rich? While there are a few individuals who are both famous and rich, it is important that we talk about the difference. To be famous, is to be well known, well recognized. To be rich is to obtain large sums of money for your creative works. Some of the richest people, aren't necessarily known, they may be the owners and creators of a specific product. Whereas those who are famous may be living a luxurious live style that is being given to them via a loan. Their lifestyle is borrowed and any money made is taken to pay for that loaned lifestyle. 

Tyga expressed in his interview to the Breakfast club how he began to research more about the money he was supposed to be making from his label. Then he also proceeded to talk about his other business ventures. Being concerned about the growth and longevity of your money is important if one is to continue to be rich. 

So, do you want to be famous or be rich?

Define The Problem

Today I decided that I would observe a Pitch Practice for startup companies. This is the perfect opportunity for those who want to perfect their pitch, get critiqued on their speaking skills as well as their business model. The goal for today's presenters was in a specified amount of time (30 sec.-8 mins), your audience should be able to remember your name, your Company name, your problem, your solution and what you are asking for. Our first presenter had an amazing idea for those in the labor contracting field to be able to get an interface to help them with their back office doings as well as help consumers find them to contract them out for their services.

The director of the group begins to ask about the business owner's name, the company name and then the problem. It's an open audience discussion, so when it get's to the problem, I say what I presumed to be the problem. The director pointed out to me that I had not stated the problem, but I merely stated what they did, or their solution. This moment in time led me to write up today's blog.

With our businesses, are we merely always stating what we do? Or are we showing how we solve a problem. For those wanting to start a business, just imagine how much a difference would make in your approaches to potential investors and consumers if you presented yourself as a problem solver. That is what would differentiate you from your competition. That will end up being your niche, and that is how you would better be able to find your target market.

I'll use the example of a shoe/fashion designer. The fashion designer may go around saying that they are a fashion designer. While that is a perfect sum up of what you do. Now if that same designer said, "I am a fashion designer, I design a high heel shoe that provides comfort and support," now this designer stands out. They have a niche. Find a way to define the problem and come up with your solution. People pay for problem solvers.

 (photo from Genius.com)

Are You Googlable?

Are You Googlable by DrDesha

I knew an artist named Giselle Grayson that would come to my Open Mic some years ago and she had a song called "Google Me". What she realized and what we all need to come to terms with, is that in this internet age, we are quick to verify someone or something via Google, or any other internet search engine. So to say that you are 'Googlable' means that your work and activity can be found on Google.

Employers, connections, those wanting to review your products or services, will Google you. Here are a few suggestions on how you can take make your business more googlable and use internet search engines to your advantage:

-Pick an internet platform. Is your restaurant on Yelp? Can people book an appoint for your beauty services via StyleSeat? Pick an internet site that can show your work from a creative and visual aspect.

- Create content. This blog you are reading is considered content. You can create miniature blogs by posting news and updates on Twitter, or you can create a picture blog like Tumblr. Update your site regularly.

- Get others to review your work. Can you get a recommendation from a former colleague? Can you ask those who visit your establishment to rate their experience? These outside sources can add credibility to your products and services.

In case you don't know how you are viewed from an outside perspective, just google your name and aliases, see what comes up about yourself.

Wanting To Claim His Stake In The Game... Introducing James Worthy

            Upon meeting James Worthy, his disposition is calm. His demeanor is cool. Yet behind his easygoingness, is a man wanting to get down to business and make great music. Living in  Atlanta, Georgia, as an established producer and songwriter, James Worthy aka J Dreamz has found his own sound to be a mix between melodic hip hop/rnb, neo soul, and urban music.  James has also worked with various artists such as; Yung Berg, Jovan Dais, Coke Boyz, Bobby Brown Jr, Kesan, Jamie Foxx, and many others.  James has added a team element to his music making repertoire with his company, Dream Musik Productions.

Here's some of my favorites from him:

Tabi Bonney ft. Fat Trel- TOHL

http://youtu.be/-QtmTYDnJ7A

Yung Berg - Electric disco

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7ELTqJ1a0U

Bobby Brown Jr - Coolin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb6fT0ENNI4

 

Follow James Worthy on Twitter and stay up to date with his movement: @DreammusikGroup

The Last Adam

I think growing up you appreciate every mentor and every person that made you feel that you were someone to be appreciated even when others tell you different. Coach Adams was that guiding light for a group of children that consider themselves the Bama Rascals. Twenty years pass, the children grow up and have to reunite to Coach Adams' funeral.

When middle-aged Bobby Jackson (Leonard Roberts) returns home to Lake City, Alabama, he and his friends are forced to have to face their troubling pasts. This movie has you wondering how you can overcome temptation before it has a hold on you.

This is a family film that teaches you the power of forgiveness, this a definite watch!

Faithwerks Films: http://ads.urbanhomeent.com/the-last-adam/

Kevin Hart's "Let Me Explain" Movie Review

 

The movie opens up as Kevin Hart is dispelling rumors circulating his love life and career. To combat them all, Kevin decides that he wants to address matters in a public way, hence, taking it to Madison Square Garden. Kevin lets us take a glimpse into his life as he proves his making legendary moves worldwide. I think when we as humans are able to admit our mistakes in life and laugh at ourselves we are able to grow as a person. Kevin did this when he went into details as to what hid character flaws are and as to why his marriage failed. This a definite must-see!

 

No More Games

 

While watching No More Games, it was amazing to me the amount of women that Myron (Emmbre Perry) was able to seduce. Can anyone tame him? Persia White comes into the film testing whether or not Myron's reputation will always precede him.

I also enjoyed the additional dilemmas that this story had to offer. Ray Lavender brought a sincerity and passion to his character. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn't appreciate the comedy that Tommy Ford brought to the screen.

Check out more about this film here:
No More Games

Shake The Movie

Deidre Thomas is the Director of the flick, Shake which stars Thomas "Luscious" Crawley. Luscious is in desperate need to get away from his gangster boss and father, that is played by Clifton Powell. Luscious takes his hustling to new heights. Luscious soon discovers that it isn't an easy feat to make fast money and find true love.

This is definitely a ladies night movie. A movie that will make you wish you were the fly on the wall or the fingers tracing Luscious' delightful body.

You can see more about the film here: Shake The Movie

The Jacksonville Experience

When I mentioned to someone that I was staying in Jacksonville, FL for awhile, they simply replied "isn't that place country?" Country, meaning simplied or stupid,. Now as a Native Kentuckian who loves put the world "Y'ALL" in my everyday vernacular, there's a sense of simplicity that resonates in me. Yet, I love my "country" people and places. At the end of the day if those people and places show you love, then you give that love right back. Jacksonville has culture, diversity and rich history. There is truly something to do whether you're in Duval County, St. Augustine or Orange Park. My goal in writing this piece is to let you see what you can experience if you ever are around Jacksonville's parts.

Family Activities:

Jacksonville has a pretty decent size beach area and even great fishing opportunities that even your most beginning fisher can enjoy. There's the Jacksonville Jaguars,  for the raving football fans and the Jacksonville Giants (ABA Division) for the basketball fans.
  

                                     
The Landing has great food, entertainment (Rush Street, Concerts), galleries (go see Adrian Pickett's work!) and more.

• Arts, Music, Food

Artwalk (happens every 1st Wednesday of the month) brings out the creative flavor in Jacksonville and for a split second I thought I was in a mini version of Times Square with the painters on the sidewalk and the cypher being conducted outside. Martini Mondays and Cometry liven the night at the Square One establishment. Endo Exo and Jack Rabbits, Zodiac can cater to your grown and musical interests of any kind The Ritz Theater and Museum have their Amateur Night every 1st Friday (except in July and August) along with other musical events and dance ensembles. The Real Ting Cafe every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Thursday is where you must respect the mic as poetry and music permeates the air.

 

The restaurants here have food that make you want to renig on any new year's resolution and diet plan. I remember the first time I stood in line at Potter's House and this attractive young lady that resembled Barbie informed me that the place was her addiction and that I must try the smothered pork chops. I did and I understand her addiction. Three Layers Cafe has amazing wine tastings every 1st Tuesday of the month. They also have this wonderful make-your-own salad special for lunch and their 4 Berry smoothie leaves me wanting every drop. And I'd be amiss if I didn't mention the great southern cooking of Celebs Corner Kitchen, their fresh fruit and fresh seafood will entice all of your tastebuds!


Special Events to look out for:

-One Spark. One Spark is a five-day event for creators, innovators, movers and shakers. From April 17- 21, 2013, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators will display projects in a 1.5 mile radius, multi-venue gallery in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Imagine contributing to next big thing while creating love and appreciation for one's community as well.

-Jacksonville Jazz Festival  5/23 - 5/26

And if your in JAX and you need photographers (Blue Franswa and his team,Digital Miss Designs), music recording studios (Vision Sound Recording, Winlab Squad and Cypress Records) for their professionalism!

 

Skandal's Lessons

Our youth, our communities, our people- need help. I say this as a young person, and I say this as someone who turns negative to positives regularly. Marcus "Skandal" Mitchell taught a lot of things while working with him and I feel like if we do these things collectively everyday, then we'll all grow.

1. Give Praise.- Everyone has haters, okay, I get it. One of the ways that you combat that hate is to show your love. Give someone a sincere compliment. Sincerely applaud someone's efforts for trying something they want to do. Give someone positive feedback. Skandal never wanted to boo anyone. Showing that love can elevate you above any negativity.

2. Give laughter to yourself and to others. - Laughter is the best medicine. Even through all of his pain, Skandal would laugh at his successes, failures and peculiar observations. His laugh and smile were contagious. Isn't it so much easier to be around someone who is lighthearted and who can make you laugh?

3. Give of yourself.- Skandal gave of his time and resources to give people a voice. He gave advice. He gave hugs. If he had it to give it was yours. Give what you can and watch what will return to you.

4. Give Referrals.- Skandal loved to refer people to one another, especially if you were good at what you did. Your network inevitably means your networth, so treat all relationships with respect and care, and refer someone today!

Thank you for taking the time for reading my Skandalisms. Let me know if you have any comments on this, or if you have anymore Skandalisms to share. Skandal's legacy will live on.

Rascal Flatts & Farmer's Insurance

Farmers Insurance is a sponsor of the Rascal Flatts tour. It was a treat to be a promotional ambassador for their company at the concert at Riverbend on 07/22. We were set up outside of the venue, awaiting for patrons to come and enjoy our photo opportunties, games, and brief surveys.

My first book!

My first book entitled Coconut Joez is about young teenagers and their quest for independence and fun. I turned to Kickstarter.com to help get this project funded by wonderful people just like you! Check out more information about my book here ----> Coconut Joez on Kickstarter.com .Coconut Joez is set to be released Sept 2012.

Get Those Taxes Done On Time!

Does doing tax preparation make you nervous? Have you been putting off doing them until the last second? Call me at 513-4718299 and get your taxes done efficiently and at a low price. I am also located at Liberty Tax Service 1600 Queen City Ave Cincinnati Ohio 45214.

Coca-Cola Happiness Tour

Coca Cola Happiness Tour stopped at University of Kentucky yesterday to help the students experience a Coke and a smile. Adjacent to the Student Center a vending Machine gave away Coca Cola merchandise. Grand prizes such as a Kindle Fire, Vizio TV, and a chance to hold the 2011 NCAA trophy that was presented to UK when they won the tournament. Are you ready for Coca Cola Happiness?