Amateurs & Fashion Delights

What’s better than a zestful dose of New York, fashion and entertainment intricately maneuvered into one amazing week?  Can’t think of anything, huh?  That’s okay!  I got the latest scope on what’s happening in New York City just for you.  Whip out your judges hats and sport your favorite threads as you venture New York City this week.  

This Wednesday, kick back, relax and exercise your judging abilities at Amateur Night at the Apollo Theatre.  Going on from now to June 19, watch courageous, talented and eh..not so talented performers illustrate their skills for a chance at the $10,000 prize.  Keep in mind; some of the most iconic musicians have dusted off their vocals at the stage at the Apollo Theatre, including Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, Lauryn Hill and Ella Fitzgerald.  The stage is open to aspiring musicians, singers, dancers, comedians, rappers and spoken word artist!  If you are any of the above, I recommend snagging a spot on the stage in the future!  Buy your tickets before Wednesday for $5 off!  Tickets are only $20!  Get them here http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/00004A30C9FFA730?brand=apollo

            Want to finally penetrate your desire for fashion’s premium delights in New York City?  Want to know where to go for the latest, the greatest and let’s not forget, the thriftiest finds? Want an inside look at private showrooms and sample sales?  Simply like things that are totally free?  If you nodded your head to one of the questions above, I have exactly what you’re looking for.  Starting this Tuesday and continuing on the 28th, 15th and 26th of May and 11th of June, you will have the chance to uncover New York City’s Fashion District with an experienced tour guide for Free Fashion Center Neighborhood Walking Tours.  Tours will be held 10 am on weekdays and 2 pm on Sundays at the northeast corner of Seventh Avenue and West 39th Street.  Everything is totally free, which is a bonus.  It doesn’t get any better of this.  Amazing fashion in New York City tips for free.  You can’t give that up.  Therefore, you can make your reservations by emailing mikesnyctours@yahoo.com.       

            If you thought Andre Leon Talley’s career started at America’s Next Top Model and ended when Tyra Banks gave him the boot, you’d fail to see the big picture.  Mr. Andre Leon Talley (Love his name btw!) is a contributing editor at Vogue with more than 25 years of experience in the fashion industry.  Talley has attended hundreds upon hundreds of the greatest runway shows around the world, but he’s stopping in New York City to discuss his latest project— Little Black Dress, which features famous designs from Yves Saint Laurent to Ralph Lauren.  His book celebrates fashion’s most adored item—the LBD.  His discussion will be highlighting the classic, but also modern take on the LBD.  Additionally, he’ll be infusing his experiences in the fashion industry to make this event a hit!  Get your tickets NOW! http://www.ticketmaster.com/search?tm_link=tm_header_search&=&user_input=FIAF+Style&q=FIAF+Style

- Brittany Spell

Breezy x Lil' Wayne x Ray J

On my quest to bring you guys new music every week, this week I have come to the same issue I face almost every week; trying to figure out when the classic love song died.  It’s almost like a sweet melody can’t come without either degrading a female or talking about the craziest things going on in the bedroom.  Romance is dying in the music world people.  We need new artists to clean up R&B and help us believe in love again.  That being said, lets talk about Chris Brown shall we?  Chris has been all over the news last week talking about what to expect from his new album.  In an interview with Ryan Seacrest on Z100 he said to expect some music like his first album, he wants to experiment less and just make good music that his fans want to hear.  Then a leak of his album came out titled “Nobody’s Perfect” and so started the annoying techno music.  Will this phase ever die?  Or at least lessen?  I don’t know about you guys but the mix of an R&B song with a loud house beat isn’t always what I want to hear when I’m awaiting a new album.  Besides that crazy track, Chris released his first single for “X” last Monday titled ‘Fine China’.  I liked this track for a few reasons, the beat has this old school vibe and the lyrics are really sweet, well done Chris!  The link is below. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGs1gODLiSQ

Lil Wayne’s “I am Not a Human Being II” is at number 2 on the charts.  Though this may seem like something to celebrate, the numbers don’t add up to his past albums which are used to hitting number 1 on the charts, so this is kind of a tank for Weezy.  While listening to it, and you have to know that I used to be a big Wayne fan back in middle school, its just as disappointing as almost all of Weezy’s recent projects.  The album has some bangers but nothing that compares to his metaphorical genius from earlier years.  Wayne is great on a feature but as time goes on, I’m starting to be thankful for his retirement, 

Now usually I don’t like to give light to foolishness, but I can’t help it this week with Ray J’s cry for attention in the release of “I Hit It First”.  Not only is it an embarrassment for him and the producers of that song, but it’s a careless track that begs for attention from the mother to be.  And though we all know how Kim K and the Kardashian fam came to fame, it’s a little late to claim you “Hit it first” Ray.  While talking about the track with a couple of my friends they said they found it to be catchy.  Catchy or not, its undeniably un-classy and a bust for Ray J.  I think people like to get on Kanye’s bad side, and I’m looking forward to a response form Ye, if he would dare give this petty situation light that is. 

What’s on my Replay?

Bad (Solo Version) – Tiara Thomas

Fine China – Chris Brown

Girls – Kid Cudi ft. Too $hort

New Releases

Wolf – Tyler, The Creator

Jay-Z x Kid Cudi x Cassie x Kanye

This past week in music brought us plenty of new videos, singles, album leaks and presidential controversy.  Lets get started with Jay Z and Bey’s trip to Cuba.  While the couple was celebrating their 5 year wedding anniversary, the world was buzzing, especially about Jay’s relationship with President Obama.  It started a political craze that’s biggest question was, who issued the couple clearance to travel to Cuba?  Amidst the drama, Jay released a response to the public in “Open Letter,” which no doubt stirred up more controversy with his line “boy from the hood but got white house clearance”. Now this song in its entirely is Kanye cocky, because in fact Jay got clearance for his trip from the Treasury department, but Jay makes some really good points check out the song below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyUxCQt9T0E

Take a trip with Cudi.  If you’re into trippy beats, space like sounds and visual lyrics Indicud is definitely for you.  Kid Cudi’s much anticipated album out on the 23^rd of this month was actually leaked this past week and I couldn’t resist.  Indicud is a movie like production, its theatrical and well thought-out, its what Hip Hop has been needing.  I listened to the album in full with a good friend of mine who said ‘Cudi is like the Jimi Hendrix of rap, with his detailed beats and story like plot to his albums.’  I couldn’t agree more, I will be coping this album when it drops and so should you! 

Bad Boy’s baby, Cassie released her mix ape this past week titled Rockabyebaby.  Now, not that I was expecting much, but the only good on this mixtape were the features and the beats I’m sorry to say.  Cassie is doing the same ‘talking on tracks’ as she did from her “Me & You” days. Though the mixtape has some cool sounds and some cool tracks like ‘Paradise’ and ‘Numb’, overall I think it’s a miss. 

Kanye plus Daft Punk equals music of the future?  Well its music of the near future at least.  They have worked together for two tracks on Kanye’s new album, (yes, really Kanye is going to release a new album!) and the French electronic dance duo that are Daft Punk say that Ye’ raps over a beat of “live and programmed drums”.  I’m excited, if you know me, you know Yeezy is one of my favorites. 

New Videos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYZ4RScj_sI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpiV9Hu1fN0

http://www.vevo.com/watch/j-cole/power-trip-lyric/USQX91300328?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=watch&utm_campaign=wp_j_cole_power_trip_lyric

What’s on My Replay?

Numbers on Boards – Pusha T
Boss ***** & Fast Cars – Red Café ft Pusha T & Fabolous
Ex Again – Eric Bellinger ft Jhene Aiko
How Many Drinks (remix) – Miguel ft. Kendrick Lamar
1997 – Corner Boy P ft. Curren$y
Brothers – Kid Cudi ft. King Chip & A$AP Rocky
Mad Solar – Kid Cudi
Burn Baby Burn – Kid Cudi

- Alyssa Jones

New York on a Budget

Do you know what’s better than New York in the wintertime?  New York in the spring!  With temperatures lightly nudging the weather chart, it’s time to really discover what New York has to offer.  As the sizzling warmth of spring commence, numerous lively events sprout throughout the season.  Let’s spring into the priceless events happening this week!

            Putting the old saying to rest, May flowers can actually be encountered in April at Brooklyn Botanic Garden! If you’re anything like me, you like things that are free.  All day on Tuesdays and 10 am to 12 noon on Saturdays, you can let loose, frolic, relax and revel in the beauty of nature.  In celebration of the birth of spring, the Botanic Garden has assembled centuries-old Japanese custom, Cherry-blossoming viewing.  What better way to enjoy your time luxuriating in the finest flowers for free!  When you’re finished you can stop at any local restaurants or thrift stores nearby to top off your day.

            Now who said the fun in Brooklyn has to stop there?  From 5 pm to 11 pm on Saturday, BAM (Brooklyn Arts Museum) will be opening their doors for free so New Yorkers can relish in their monthly First Saturday event!  If you don’t know by now, every first Saturday of the month, BAM engineers zestful activities that draw an eclectic crowd of music-lovers, art-lovers, dance-lovers—basically anybody who likes to have a good time.  The agenda is packed with activities that range from quilt making (Yes, you’ll be making unique quilts) to dashing ballet dancers conspiring with talented hip-hop dancers to perform a majestic piece entitled “Quilt”.  For more information on the event line-up, visit here. http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/visit/first_saturdays.php

            Celebrating their 13^th year, the Havana Film Festival is back presenting ingenious and influential films from and about Latin American and Caribbean natives.  With discreet precision, the HFF has assembled a tasteful selection of newfangled and classic films that overall speaks to the Latin American and Caribbean community. With your student id tickets are simply $8.  To buy tickets or receive more information, visit http://www.hffny.com/2012/boxoffice.php

- Brittany Spell

Open Your Eyes (And Maybe Your Wallet)

People come to New York to experience the vibrant culture streaming through the streets of New York neighborhoods.  With inhabitants from all ends of the earth, you’re bound to rub elbows with the distinct customs, delicious cuisines and signature beats of any culture.  With so many opportunities present, why not indulge in the following activities transpiring here in New York?

            Descending back into your studies Tuesday morning, you’re bound to feel an urge to mellow out by the time the weekend rolls in.  This Friday, breathe easy to the melodic tunes of folk-inspired rhythms at the American Folk Museum.  This week is all about NEW experiences.  Oh yes.  And it’s free!  Put together your coolest threads and slip into the museum not only to savor the live music from Eli Smith, an acclaimed musician, but also to experience the garnished exhibitions featuring talented artists, like William Mathew Prior, a 19^th century American painter.  The American Folk Museum address is 45 W. 53rd Street.  Beginning at 5:30 pm and ending at 7:15 pm, you have the opportunity to enjoy a great dinner meal afterwards!

            Now, I’m sure as a young child you were fascinated with cartoons and comics.  I mean really, how couldn’t you be?  Whether you’re a child or an adult, cartoons give you this weird tingling sense of comfort and inspiration.  Can you imagine the work that goes into composing amazing cartoons and comics?  Wait no longer; this Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm you can attend MoCCa Arts Fest, which celebrates creative art of comics and cartoons.  Tickets are only $15 in advance and $24 at the door.  For more information on the lineup, visit  http://www.societyillustrators.org/Mocca_Event.aspx?id=8605

            For 15 bucks you can see tomorrow’s cars today!  That’s right.  The International Auto Show 113^th anniversary at Jacob Javits Center.  This dazzling event is North America’s oldest and most-attended auto show event.  The auto show will be featuring prevailing innovation in the automotive technology, the dopest exotics, the latest in green technology so much more.  Need I continue?  Ending next Monday, be sure to snatch those tickets and hit up the show before it’s too late!  Visit the following website to buy your tickets: http://www.autoshowny.com/tickets/

- Alyssa Jones

Holidays Under The Lights

     Easter Break is this week and if you plan on staying in New York during break, there are plenty of things jumping off in the Big Apple.  The following opportunities are conveniently planted in the heart of NYC.  So pull out your calendars store the following events on your to-do list!

           

            With Women’s Month swiftly coming to a close, Webster Hall will be hosting a Girl’s Night Out event Thursday, March 28^th.  Just in time for Easter break!  Fellas, GNO isn’t only for the ladies.  You’re invited too!  Tickets are just 15 bucks, and ladies, if you’re over 21, you can get in free.  Please note, you must be 19 year and older.  In effort of keeping this event up to the ladies standards, no hats, boots, timbs or baggy jeans (for men and women) are allowed. And collared shirts are required for men.  If you don’t adhere to these guidelines, you will be denied entry.  The event starts at 10:00 PM.  A good time is guaranteed!  Head to this website to get your tickets. http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=3293694&REFERRAL_ID=tmfeed&crosssite=TM_US:1618435:140

Now who said Halloween can’t happen year around?!  On Saturday, hop on the train heading towards Time Scare, I mean, Time Square to plunge into a world of terror.  No costume necessary.  Located 668 8th Avenue, the Time Scare Haunted House easily echoes the eerie scenery of a nightmarish psychiatric hospital.  Fraught with many twists and turns that feature gruesome sights, shocks and scenes reminiscent of horror films, you’re destined to leave frightened, panting and perhaps, in tears.  Have no worries.  You can ease that anxiety with a delicious meal at their restaurant.  General admission tickets are $27, but if you rally a group of friends, ticket prices are chopped off by 20 to 30 percent.  Ticket times are for 3:00 PM Saturday and 1:00 AM Sunday!  The choice is yours.  To buy tickets online, go to http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=3300504&REFERRAL_ID=tmfeed&crosssite=TM_US:1652316:337347

            If you’re not too tired from the thrill of the Haunted House, come out from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to participate in NYC’s annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival.  That’s right. Bonnet Festival. People from across the world gather along Fifth Avenue from 49th to 57th Street to flaunt their Sunday’s best!  Outfits hit both sides of the spectrum featuring outrageously eccentric to ravishingly elegant attire.  Just a quick history lesson.  Did you know that NYC’s Easter Parade spawned from the simple decision to decorate churches with flowers in celebration of Easter back in the 1800’s? The small gesture produced what we see today at the parade!  Get a glimpse of what the parade entails with a clip from 2012’s Easter Parade. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHWuPmEmJ5A  

- Brittany Spell

Majestic Casual x Beyonce x Lil' Wayne

This week I did some research into some different genres of music and I have to say I’m pretty excited about what I found.  If you are familiar with XXYYXX, the 17-year-old smash producer who birthed the trippy tracks About You, XXYYXX and Alone, then Majestic Casual may be the next big thing for you to listen to.  Majestic Casual urges you to ‘experience music in a new way,’ done by dozens of producers with the chill like remixes to familiar songs from Biggie’s "Dead Wrong" to Destiny’s Child "Say My Name" and almost everything in-between. With a constant stream of videos always coming in, Majestic Casual is definitely one to watch, check out the Boyz II Men remix of "Can You Stand The Rain" and one of their popular tracks "Wild Child" below. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAj5TKIdDxU

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

So, is it just me, or is Bey’s new Bow Down just not cutting it?  King Bey’s release of her first single off her upcoming album coming out later this year is a bit, well much.  I can’t say that I can get used to Bey’s cursing on a track, but the songs not all bad and you can expect to hear it all over the place simply because its done by Bey.  There is also rumored to be an upcoming remix featuring artists from the dirty south, stay tuned.  Songs like this have fans questioning, is change really good?  I hope we can still expect some of the sweet songbird side of Beyonce in her upcoming album.  Here is the video promo for Bow Down/I Been On. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S31aR9a5Fc

After Lil Wayne’s severe seizures and ICU scare, Wayne is back!  He released a video thanking fans for their continued support, here’s a link to the video.  Wayne’s release for what is reportedly his final album is due in two days, stay on the lookout for “I Am Not A Human Being 2”. 

http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.11NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzNjQwNTc5ODM5MDgmcHQ9MTM2NDA1Nzk4NTQ4MiZwPSZkPSZnPTImbz**YjlhOWI2YWUwNGQ*MzczYjM5MjRiZDhl/OWZiZTI4ZiZvZj*w.gif

http://cdnapi.kaltura.com/index.php/kwidget/wid/1_adys6fus/uiconf_id/6740162 

http://cdnapi.kaltura.com/index.php/kwidget/wid/1_adys6fus/uiconf_id/6740162

What’s On My Replay?

Yay Yay – Schoolboy Q

Pour It Up – Rihanna Ft. Yung Jeezy, Juicy J, Rick Ross & T.I.

BSail – Kendrick Lamar

20/20 Experience – Justin Timberlake

B**** Don’t Kill My Vibe Remix – Kendrick ft. Jay Z

- Alyssa Jones