Run This Town Video

This or That Thursday: Mariah vs. Whitney

Ok I know I said I'd do this thing every Thursday but I think every other Thursday might be more managable... anyway here's the match-up for today:

For all those who were born in the 80s, when the question pops up of who the greatest singer of our generation is there really is only two names that come up in conversation. Of course there are a couple younger singers who may creep their way into the talk but let's face it.. no one is touching Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston in their prime. Sure, they both had their time spent in "crazyland"... and both probably still visit there every now and then, but I'm talking about the Mariah and Whitney from the 80s and 90s. You know, the "I Will Always Love You" Whitney and the Mariah that sang "Hero." So what do you think? Who would you say is the better of the two???

This one is tough for me because I liked both growing up. Although I did like Whitney better as a kid, she sort of fell off earlier than Mariah did. At the same time, Mariah hasn't really come out with anything legit in a while because the bubble gum corny music she's had hasn't been cutting it for me. I thing I'll go with Whitney on this one. I have been a fan of hers for so long and still do got love for her crazy behind.

Mike Vick: The Newest Eagle

Last night Michael Vick shocked sports fans around the nation, announcing the he has signed a 2 year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, I won't try to act like there is no bias here because I'm an Eagles fan. So far there have been mixed reactions to the news. Some people said that they are no longer Eagles fans because of the deal.. These people arent true fans of the team and can root for the damn Cowboys for all I care. Others, like myself have been excited for the news because Vick was a great talent and probably still has a lot of potential. Although its a gamble, I am really interested in seeing how things turn out for him and the club.. now as far as the people who say that he shouldn't get a 2nd chance after he's done his jail time, lost millions of dollars, and has become the butt of all dog jokes, I say this... I hate the fact that we live in a country where people are quicker to forgive someone who has killed another human than we are someone who killed dogs. Also, being in a nation that praises hunting as a sport in many areas, you would think that some people would see the contradiction in their opinions and in the law.. but enough about that.. I wish Mr. Vick and the Eagles luck this season. Fly Eagles Fly and all that good stuff..

C Murder Found Guilty For.... Murder

I gotta say people.. I didn't see this one coming. I mean, I'm just shocked....... Ok, not really. Now I'm not saying that he was asking for it or anything but if your name is has the word "Murder" in it, you should make an effort to behave yourself. That's just my opinion though... Honestly, the only thing that really makes this story blog-worthy is the irony of it so I really dont have much else to say about a rapper that was never really relevant anyway... Peace

This or That Thursday: Illmatic vs. Reasonable Doubt

Ok.. I wanted to try something new, partially to give me a reason to consistently maintain my blog posts and partially just for fun. So now every Thursday will be "This or That Thursdays" and I will try my hardest to come up with things, people, artists, songs, teams etc. that are comparable and debatable.. So, heres my first shot at it.. let me know what you think...

Which classic hip hop album is better overall? Nas's "Illmatic" or Jay-Z's "Reasonable Doubt".. Both LPs are the debut albums and arguably the best work from each legendary artist. We all have taken part in the Jay-Z vs. Nas debates as far as their individual talents and careers, but lets compare each of their masterpieces..

This one is honestly really tough for me because both men went really hard lyrically all throughout the albums. I am able to listen to both CDs straight through without having to turn any songs but I have noticed that I really have to be in a particular mood to want to listen to each. "Illmatic" is basically the epitome of what raw early 90's rap was all about in New York. His lyrical prowess made him stand out at a time when lyrical talent was appreciate, much unlike today. Although I can listen to the album all the way through and enjoy it, its hard street feel makes me only want to listen to it when I'm in a certain "raw hip hop" mood. "Reasonable Doubt" has a couple songs that are a little lighter in content but still embody the rawness of New York rap during that time. A number of the tracks have such a mellow feel to them that they make me feel good whenever I hear them.. (particularly "Feelin' It"). With all that said, I still can't say that one is better than the other but I must say that it's a good ass barbershop discussion... too bad I haven't gotten my hair cut in nearly a decade... peace out folks!

Rookies of the Year?: My Take on Blake and Drake

Two young men... both in their early 20's.. both high-yellow light skinned brothas.. and both have the world anticipating the starts of their professional careers. Blake Griffin is the number 1 overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft and has been doing his thing during the NBA pre-season. Many NBA fans have more than evidence that the kid has a lot of potential to be a star in the league. As he dominated and stood out last year in the NCAA, Blake really made a name for himself to the point that there was no question in anyone's mind that he was going to be the first pick in the draft. Aubrey Graham, better known as Drizzy Drake Rodgers (I still have no clue where the Rodgers came from) is simply the hottest rapper out right now and he hasnt even put out his first album. His mixtape buzz has skyrocketed and has made him extremely popular among music listeners everywhere. Girls like him because he sings, guys like him because he raps, and best of all, he actually does it well.

Now, I bring up these two men, not only because I am looking forward to seeing them grow and succeed in each of their individual careers, but also because I noticed how much they have in common... and damn it I thought it was interesting! Blake's success in the NCAA and in the NBA pre-season sort of equates to Drake's successful songs via his mixtapes. If either of them kick off their rookie season with a flop, it would be such a great disappointment to fans of sports and music. Blake is strong, explosive, and fun to watch on the court. I just hope this his college level success translates to the NBA. The unique style and sound of Drake's music has me more than confident that he will sell a whole lot of albums when he debuts, but I just hope that he figues out the art of longevity in the cut-throat music industry.

Now, just because they have a lot in common so far doesn't mean that Blake is going to tear his ACL... I hope not.. I've been there twice and wouldn't wish it upon anyone.. Both Blake and Drake have the talent and work ethic to be the rookie of the year in their respective fields. So, as the final quarter of the year approaches and basketball season starts, I will have my eye on these cats, wishing them the best, wishing them the best, wishing them the best, wishing them the.... ok, that was just corny... until next time folks...

The Fall of Drizzy

I saw this and I felt my knee tingle 'cuz I tore my ACL twice and know the pain he was feeling. Get well brotha..