CROOKLYN CHRONICLES

Crooklyn for OBAMA!

2008-08-29T15:08:00.004-04:00

Instead of watching the whole speech by Barack Obama with my family in the living room I opted to go in my room and watch it alone so I can cry my eyes out(I hate crying in front of people..LOL). To see an African-American man stand before the country with confidence and great poise with such a profound eloquence showed me that there are many possibilities which can actually be more near than far. Now I've been a fond believer for years that politicians we're useless but last night it was as if he'd listened to my fears and concerns about living in America. He spoke to the independent business owner/s, middle classs families that struggle to pay their child college tuition(me), the unemployed, those who have no health insurance and msot importantly Mcain and his ignorant 72 year old ass! He literally hit every core issue and hit my heart as well. I thought about the little black boy or girl sitting at home listening that will now be able to look at Barack and know that it is indeed a possibility! We have officially 67 DAYS left to make that choice America!

Crooklyn Chronicles for OBAMA!

Enjoy Part 1 and 2 from the speech last night

Carnival Weekend

2008-08-29T14:05:00.007-04:00

Those of you who know me well know how much I LOVE Carnival! I have never in my life and I emphasize on NEVER, missed the festivities of Laborday weekend in Crooklyn. The experience and the culture is crazy!!!!! It's nothing like smelling and eating the grilled jerkchicken, corn, the roti, cookup rice, palou, blackpudding, sowce, stewchicken(OMG I'm getting HUNGRY already). Then on Monday on de parkway chipping down de road (a type of walk that consists of you walking and dancing to the music at the same time).. The flags of all countries, the different faces, the hood, the tourists and the many former and some still present immigrants who have contributed to building this country. Often times West Indian, Carribean and South Americans(Guyanese!!!!!) don't often receive the acknowledgement so on the parkway they make sure to take over in every way! As a child of Guyanese parents and a lover of soca/reggae every year I make it a duty to get on stink(hahahaha..a term that describes wilding out). So it's my duty to help you get around this weekend so that you too can jump-up and take part of this cultural explosion.

(pics courtesy of flickr.com)

Tonight
Friday, August 29th Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm
STAY IN SCHOOL CULTURAL EDUCATION - FREE! MC: Father Goose

Featuring youthful performers
-Hip Hop, Steelband, Dance, Fashions, Karate, Police Youth Club, Gowanus Drill Team, Harlem Children’s Zone, Soul Tigers Marching Band, Pink Diamond Steppers and more! Friday 29th – (Evening) Showtime – 8:00pm: Tickets in advance $35: At the Door: $40

BRASS FEST (GYAL FARM Edition)
Artists – Shurwayne Winchester & Traffik, KES the Band, Edwin Yearwood & Krosfyah and Statement (from Barbados) Berbice (from Grenada) and Hunter singing “Bring it in a Bottle” with Dil-E-Nadan Orchestra (special prize for the best dressed -farmer brown outfit)

Tomorrow
Saturday, August 30th (Daytime) 8:00am – 3:00pm: Children FREE (Adults $5 donation)

Route: Kingston Ave & St. Johns Pl, to Franklin Ave Sooutn, to President St, into Brooklyn Museum Grounds

Saturday 30th (Evening) Showtime – 8:00pm: Tickets in advance $30: At the Door: $35
Steel Bands: (2007 Champions) - Pan Sonatas, CASYM, Sesame Flyers, Despers USA, Harmony, Crossfire, Pantonics, Ad Lib and Radoes.
Event – PANORAMA STEELBAND COMPETITION – (Cash prizes & challenge trophy)

Sunday, August 31st Showtime - 7:00pm: Tickets in advance $30: At the Door: $35
Event – DIMANCHE GRAS
Artists – David Rudder, Scrunter, Crazy, Barron, Hunter and others along with a dazzling competition for King & Queen of the Bands
Description – The Sunshine Band & Calypso veterans perform, Kings & Queens compete and Dancers entertain to conclude the weekend concert events leading to the big Labor Day Carnival Parade.

For advance tickets please call 718.467.1797 or the following locations: Charlies’s Records: 718-783-8336, Tropical Paradise: 718-629-3500, Brooklyn Museum: 718-638-5000 Email: wiadca@gmail.com & www.wiadca.org & www.myspace.com/wiadca
WIADCA’s Address 323-325 Rogers Avenue (between Sullivan Pl & Montgomery St) Brooklyn, NY 11225

MONDAY-FREE
Labor Day Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway - 9/1/08 - 8am-6pm

Enjoy the tunes of Lord Kitchener who is one of the most internationally known calypsonians!

This pic of me is from Laborday2K6, might just see me on the parkway this year(crossing fingers)!

Video of the Day

2008-08-28T00:28:00.005-04:00

As the summer departs, I guess for most people it's back to laying low with a hubby ,LOL! Enjoy the video and the rest of the summer that's left!

* Don't we miss LAURYN?

Bob Marley-Lauryn Hill -Turn Your Light
Uploaded by hushhush112

Monday MUZIK

2008-08-25T04:30:00.008-04:00

Photo Credit: Vlad!

It's a chilling feeling to know that one day this picture and this track will mean soooooooooo much one day. In due time...

Check this exclusive M.I.A. Paper Planes remix with Smash and Mickey.

http://www.zshare.net/audio/17467463a111f3a1/

Dear Foxy!

2008-08-25T03:20:00.000-04:00

"FB, there ain't no equivalent, the flow is oh so belligerent.The hood love the style that I'm delivering, Fox is hip hop, they just can't rid of this..."

When Jay introduced you to us we became admirers, real dudes respected your raw capability of telling a dude who you were and what you demanded. At sixteen you fearlessly held it down for the brown girls, no heavy makeup just black lipstick, lip liner and hard looking jet black weave with the black gel sideburns (LOL).So GHETTO but we fell in love with it! To add to that The Firm gave you crazy street cred, spitting with Nas and AZ (so slept on...) When "Hot Spot" came out we we're optimistic, didn't really care that you and Kim we're beefing, seen it coming anyway. All we knew was that our girl was getting those MTV spins. Okay so couple months passed we didn't hear from you. You did a couple of features here and there but still no album. In between the anticipation that's when the turn started. Car accidents on Flatbush, hospital visits, run-ins with the law, random fights, court dates and cursing random people out. It definitely caught us off gaurd so we gave you the side-eye and focused on Kim so you could get the picture. The Queenbee was killing it during your break and we even bumped to Trina, had us on that Miami shit for a while (Why is NY so bias to other artist not from here, SMH). I'm guessing you took note and came out with, "BK's Anthem" ahhhhh we we're hype! In the video you had the army green Sean John baggy velour bugging on the stoop with your bro Gav, showed shots of dudes playing c-lo, and spitting in front of Junior's. The vid did a great job at embodying your core fans. It was a great look, we crossed fingers. Thanks to you your ex-boo Spragga for being an influence you blessed us with, "Oh yeah," and had us dubbing like crazy in the bashments. Of course we fell in love with the new style change because the beauty supply store couldn't keep the wet and wavy weave packs on the shelf. And we're loving the fact that you rocked that teacup pink lip gloss for every phot op. It was your summer but as always more of the bullshit started up again. After what seemed like your tenth hiatus we heard you got signed to Badboy then you teased us with, "Stylin," and made it necessary to style in burberry. After a while and album let down's it became normal to hear you we're cursing people out, walking up in people's establishments and being arrogant. You we're probably flipping that big hair all over the place. It got to a point where people didn't even care about you or your career. You became a laughing stock but when you'd randomly show up on Flex and spit a crazy free-style where he'd be dropping his famous bombs all night it'll always tell us you still reigned supreme. Thought your reunion with Hov and your hear loss would humble you but things didn't change.

The sad thing about it is that when it's all said and done we're not gonna remember you for your sick, authentic delivery, swagger or rhymes. Instead we're gonna remember you for your ever changing public disputes, jail sentence and leaked albums that never saw the light of day only on youtube, limewire and other music sites that got a hold of it.

Mayb'e I've been hard on you throughout this letter but I wonder how did it all get this way. Was it your early exposure to the game at which can be considered a fragile point in a young woman's life? I mean at sixteen you we're in a black see-through bathing suit rapping on "Ain't no Nigga," talking about paying commisary for your man and how your ish got you 5 carats and all that... Since I'm not sure I'm blaming it on growing up too fast, the press built beef between you and Kim who was once yor good friend, the pressures of being introduced by a male powerhouse like Jay and let go to rock on your own. Love and relationships, cause I'm sure it's hard having to deal with that in the public eye. I don't know if I should be tight but we need you Fox. I still grin when I hear you bust that mean patwa on songs fronting like your Jamaican, or when your hair is extra big with fushia flash nail polish! COME BACK, I guess I have to be receptive to your transitions but it's time to get your act together, it's a void in the game in terms of female rappers and there's some of us who haven't given up and know you can fill it.

Sincerely,

You're last remaining fans....

Let's reminisce, Look at her hair scattered all over the place in the first video! hahahahaha Gosh I love her, LOL!

She was only SIXTEEN in this video!

Foxy Brown - Oh Yeah
Uploaded by hushhush112

Foxy Brown - "Living Legacy"
Uploaded by IlladelphSoldier

Feeling a Lil' Nostlagic!!!!

2008-08-09T00:13:00.005-04:00

It's 12 something and I'm thinking about how quick the summer is ending and of course that has me in the mood to kick back under the blankies (and yes that's without a hubby unfortunately LOL:( and watch my favorite movie, "Crooklyn." Earlier on I reminisced with my sister about how summer in Crooklyn use to be. I remember the times when we just lived to go outside and have fun. It was nothing like staying out until the street lights came on, playing "red light green light...," riding your bike in packs, feening for the ice cream truck to come up the block and having stupid arguments over double-dutch and who's hair was longer(LMAO). If you had a big family or lived on a crowded block full of other kids I'm sure you can reflect as well. Before we we're self-proclaimed hustlers up at the crack of dawn on the grind we all kicked it on the stoop of the neighbor that hated us from sun up and sun down playing truth or dare. Ahhhhhh and remember how we just reveled at the fact we could sneak feels and kiss behind the tree. And to think we didn't care if playing outside all day made us smell like sweat, cheese doodles,candy, dirt and sticky icies (LOL). Feels like yesterday right?...Fast forward to today and think about the responsibilities that we face as adults now, shitttt it's kind of hard to do that now. But, anyway I guess I'm missing that feeling a little bit.....

Here's two clips from Crooklyn!!!!!

ROC THE BLOC!

2008-08-08T23:49:00.003-04:00

I'm sure you've all heard about the events going down today. Look, call me a lazy blogger but I truly cannot list every event that's going down this Saturday! I don't even know if I'll make it to every one. So here's a link to Minority Report, Al the man that has it all covered has info on the location, artists, event prices, all the info you need!! Just know you better be at NOT JUST VINTAGE and Frank White!

http://www.theminorityreportnyc.blogspot.com/

A-Smash at Sputnik

2008-08-06T14:03:00.019-04:00

Who's Next, A-SMASH!! So I've been buzzing about mi bwoy for a while now who's no secret to the game, ask around. He'll be featured soon, as well as everywhere else! So let's check his stats and evaluate.

Sick Lyrical Telepathy= Check

SUPRAS= NAwwwwwww man.......

Swagger= For dayssss.....the Polo don has a presence that naturally makes dudes emulate and ladies blush HARD!

He Resides.... Where the skinny N#$%@'S ride!

East New York, Pink Houses

Who Listens= The PJ's and the burbs, Offices, Rap affiliates, Block huggers, Real Hip-hop Heads, Intellectuals, shit EVERYBODY!

Motto

Attain, Amaze and Advance....

Check out a snippet on Robin Thicke's "Magic"

http://www.supload.com/music/Robin-Thicke-Magic-Remixsnippet-ringtone-download-4W029H0K2ZWL.html
Another crazy track called the "Da Coldest"

http://www.supload.com/music/A-smash-Da-Coldest-ringtone-download-S4H8MWPWPJA1.html

TONIGHT he has a show at Sputnik!

262 Taaffe Place
Brooklyn NY
718 398 6666

Starts at 9 do stop by, there's a $10 cover!

Check out his myspace for more music and info, www.myspace.com/asmash2

*Look out for an interview and video footage VERY soon*

"Analogue Girl" Free 99. Tonight!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-04T13:04:00.006-04:00

I never mention established artist on here but my girl Ms. Erykah Badu is in Crooklyn and it's FREE! Every single summer Crooklyn's Borough Prez generously kicks off the Martin Luther King Jr. Concert series at Wingate Park in Brooklyn as a way to give back to his beloved city. Just last year I was honored to witness the great Lauryn Hill and yes I was one of them who stayed for the whole show(still profound in my heart!!!) This year the "Analogue Girl" will be there. I can't wait!!! To top it off it's in the BUSH(that's Flatbush for yall, LOL)anyway be there before 7:30 cause I'm sure it will be packed. Unfortunately there's no cameras,no audio or video recording(BOOOOO)but those of you lucky ones with camera phones are in luck!!! Anyway BE there. Below there's two videos that will force you to come out.Her live performances are ridiculous!

My fav song:) *Insider...for a certain Mr.*

erykah badu i want you
Uploaded by moialex

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4pqz9_erykah-badu-soldier-live-vh1-soul-s_street
Uploaded by leatik

For show info and directions:

http://www.brooklynconcerts.com/mlk.html

He's Really INCREDIBLE B.....!!!

2008-08-02T15:42:00.006-04:00

http://www.supload.com/music/A-smash-Incredible-ringtone-download-GNT093OKNJFE.html#

Dope Man

2008-08-01T02:26:00.007-04:00

Since the disappearance of Maxwell,D'angelo and Donnell Jones I have been yurning for a smooth and unique voice to get me all dreamy eyed again. Well one unexpected Saturday while doing house errands and blasting BETJ(don't sleep on that channel) from the other room I heard a sound and a voice I never heard before.It didn't sound familiar and I'm usually real good at detecting a song or voice of any artist. So I ran to my room almost breaking my toe tripping over my nephew's truck and plastered my eyes on the television. Immediately caught up,I started biting my nails, had my eyes fixtated like a zombie and was swaying my waist(LOL). I was so impressed that I honestly,no joke thanked GOD for my eyes and my ears for introducing me to Jesse Boykins III.He is simply the shit...(sorry I had too)

At twenty-three years old he is a former musical apprentice of the one and only mind, body and soul vocal R&B crooner, Bilal. With a keen ear for all eclectic genres of music, Boykins like his teacher has added to his vocal gift.Boykins is a writer, vocal arranger,composer and intense performer. Now, imagine sitting home folding some clothes and unexpectedly you hear a voice that gives you goose bumps, engages you so much you want to quit your day job and become his A&R(industry talk for Artist Rep) just so the whole world can experience what you did when your first heard him sing. Boykins bares new life to a very mild phase in R&B where no dude is really pushing the bar as much, other than trying real hard to be a sex symbol and MJ the 2nd. Boykins has no corny crotch grinding on stage gimmicks, irritating and might I add probably stinky constant lip-licks during interviews and wild outfits with leather bullets with tongue buckles(R.Kelly,Yucks). Without all that his talent, delivery and swagger will sure enough make ladies swoon and fellas rushing to take some lessons from Boykins lyrical teachings. This fresh talent is on a mission to recreate and introduce “new soul” like when R&B’s forefather’s like Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway and D’angelo had us all mesmerized. Boykins has created a very honest album titled, “Dopamine,” that is destined to help him be referred as one of the greats in the near future. With the popularity of Jesse's single and BETJ fan fav video "Tabloids," everybody is all ears waiting for more.Fortunately I got to chop it up with Jesse and get inside his dope mind(get it,hehehehe).

CC:It's very unlikely today for artist to embodie such delivery, swagger and stage presence and I think it has a lot to do with great mentoring and also being a sponge.So tell me how did working with my booskie(lol) Bilal contribute to the Boykins persona and who else did you work with?

JB3: Bilal is the reflection of a true artist,passionate,not afraid to try something if it comesto himin a dream, and he creates from ideas pictures whatever...that's what I do with my music. At the end of the day music is my therapy for the artist and the listener. Other than Bilal I've worked with Eric Roberson,J.Holiday, Anthony David,Emily King and sang background for Keyshia Cole.

CC:Currently you are unsigned,are you looking for a label or waiting for them to find you?

JB3:Honestly was never really looking for a major label to pick me up because I was young and most of the industry people were fast talkers...so I purposely turned down stuff until I felt like I understood and could comprehend the music industry enough to know what a good and bad situation is..I feel like I'm at the level where I have a strong team behind me,along with the litlle momentum from my first release that I'm ready for whatever and I'm going to take it to the next level with or without the majors.

CC:For the Dopamaine album how did you come up with the name and what's the feel,themes and inspiration?

JB3:The Dopamine album was really like a spur of the moment thing inspired by relationships and the toll the world takes on Love.Dopamine is a chemical released in your body when your in love,it's also released when your addicted to something.

CC:What are you working on now?

JB3:Right now im completing an album called,"The Beauty Created," due out Early August. It's actually inspired by Spike Lee movies. What I love is the culture, different faces and attitudes so it's definitely a Crooklyn inspired album!

Kudos to Jesse:)

To purchase Jesse's music go to itunes, cdfreedom.com, rhapshody and nimbit.com

Also for any Jesse updates hit him up on myspace, trust me he'll actually respond too. Tell him I sent you.
http://www.myspace.com/jesseboykinsiii

Visit his blog!
http://www.jbiiimusic.com/

Watch his video that made me run from the other room, LOL!

Jesse Boykins III - Tabloids [NEW]
Uploaded by PeteRock

Fresh Daily (and no not the rapper....J/K)

2008-08-01T00:32:00.006-04:00

For three weeks I sat back and left the blog, tend to other things, reflected on circles, people, friends, business associates, networks and did a lot of thinking. It's funny cause when I first started this blog it wasn't for recognition and gradually I started feeling like I was running a race to be on top. As I reflected I thought about how much doors this blog has opened up and in not even a year. Crooklyn Chronicles has introduced me to a intersting variety of individuals in just a short span of time. I think I've met them all, from the optimistic go-getter's to the wack-ass scenesters or the one's who pride on saying they work "in the industry." Those are the silly ones who have no clue that sometimes that really means lots of sleepless nights perfecting whatever your skill mayb'e instead of party hopping with the same damn people every night(PLEASE!). Look at the end of the day I'm just a bright eyed Crooklyn BROWN girl on a mission to open doors for the innovative minds that are on the grind night and day, some broke, tired and hungry for just one foot in the door to make shit happen. I whole-heartedly understand the days of discouragement, motivation and fear with the thought in mind that the world just might or might not be able to see the blueprints of your vision. So, I know reintroduce Crooklyn Chronicles as not only a blog but a movement that will FORCE people to change minds, perspectives and lives. I don't discriminate either, we all come from different walks of life.I now understand the meaning of chronicling not only Crooklyn but every ill soul from one area to the next. Whether you a PJ kid, weird musician with dope as shit skill, a true artist surrounded in a circle of posers or the corner store crate sitter, trust I will try my very best to connect with you ALL on the same level. Once more thanks to everybody who's showed me and all the incredible indviduals featured on CC support so far. Owwwwwww the MODERN MISFIT is back, LOL!

Yasin does Live!

2008-07-19T14:31:00.001-04:00

"New soul" is emerging and Yasin Abdur is dipping his soul all into it. The charismatic, passionate, stylish and very determined singer is on a mission to bless you with his gift. Singing on beats that'll make you groove and lyrics to make you swoon, Abdur wants you to take part in the eclectic experience.So, tonight come on down and watch his unplugged performance. Whether your in the industry or not take a chance on it!

Visit his myspace page!
http://www.myspace.com/yasinabdur

Vladdie Makes The Paper!

2008-07-18T10:10:00.005-04:00

Today I woke up extra early just so I can take a nice morning walk to my corner store and most importantly buy the Daily News! After anxiously waiting for almost a week, it's FINALLY on page 62. Vladmir aka as Haitian V, soon to be well-known as Morris Bestnut is featured in the Daily News, "Spotlight on Great People," section. Vladmir's success is very well deserved, not only because he's my friend and therapist(LOL)but this guy grinds consistently! He's an inspiration to many, proving that being productive and motivated will always get you to where ever you want to be! If you moved on from buying newspapers, see the link below! Love you Vladdie!!!!

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2008/07/17/2008-07-17_haitian_v_creator_touches_nerve_with_vid.html?page=0

Crooklyn Style/Swagger Files(2)

2008-07-17T15:43:00.008-04:00

Who are you Fly girl?

I’m Teneille, Fashion Editor for Clutch Magazine, NYSD Girl, member of the Rich Girls Social Club and all around Style Enthusiast!

State your hustle?

Im dedicated to keeping fellow fashionistas up to date on what’s new, hot and not so hot in the world of fashion, bringing you interviews from some of the hottest emerging designers all over the world and making sure those real grinders behind the scenes get their equal spot in the light as well.And I’m also the NYSD Resident DJ.

When did you fall in love with fashion?

I was born in love with fashion! I have a huge family comprised of some of the most creative and enterprising individuals I honestly think I’ll ever meet. Consequently, I grew up around all sorts of designers and naturally developed an interest in the industry. I was always into magazines but around 17 or 18, I actually began to feel what was coming out of a Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar spread. Fashion became art to me. I began to see the beauty in everything from ready-to-wear to avant garde. Everyone’s interpretation is different depending on the angle or perspective you’re looking at it from.Anyone can love fashion but, for me it was more about discovering style that brought my appreciation full circle.

When you step on the scene what's your style?

Running around NYC on a regular day, a v-neck tee in either black or white, worn skinnies, aviator or wayfarer sunnies, killer shoes and an oversized clutch or hobo. On the town, Im a glamour girl. I love contemporary little cocktail dresses with some sort of vintage or contrasting accent like gaudy costume jewelry or a hat and gloves.

Crooklyn fly girls are.....one of a kind. We are all so different!

Crooklyn fly boys are....indescribable! Their swag is mesmerizing!
In my clutch there's........my MAC Revealing Lipglass, Mirror, Phone, Wallet, Business Cards and soft peppermints.

When your stomping through the streets of NY what's blaring out your earphones?

Hmmm, When I’m feeling irresistible or emotional Prince’s Beautiful Ones or Little Red Corvette, creative Kanye West’s “I Wonder”, needing inspiration “What More Can I Say” or “I Did It My Way” by Jay-Z, deep “My Life” by Mary J. Blige and ecstatic “Automatic” by Mickey Factz.

Clutch is for.......everyone who’s missing the connection when they flip through the pages of publications where no one looks like you, understands your interests or can answer the questions you have. Clutch is for the fashionista with more than an addiction to labels but, character, drive and brains!

I rep Crooklyn because..... these streets made me! I got the spirit of a hustler pouring out of my soul! The lessons you learn and the experiences you acquire in Brooklyn prepare for anything that life could possibly bring your way.

LAIT Weekend Wrap-UP!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-16T03:29:00.020-04:00

It's been a longgggggggg time since I've left you guys with a post, so sorry!!!!! Please don't give up on me:( Alot of things have been going on both in my personal and professional life but I'm BACK! This weekend Not Just Vintage had there first Moonlight Madness Flea Market! I couldn't stay long unfortunately but I took some quick flicks of the great designers that were there before I headed out to get ready for Rain's Fashionista's Diary themed 21st party. It was a cute bday bash, Happy Birthday again Rain and I want my raffle tix back...LOL

And yes Ms.Bodega I stole some of your pics*

A Nice CROOKLYN Treat!

2008-07-11T17:11:00.003-04:00

Flea Market!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-09T19:57:00.005-04:00

So my girls Lamonica and Maya at Not Just Vintage has something very important to tell you!

Hey Ladies and Gents,
Moonlight Madness is a flea market full of independent designer goods. Held SUNDAY EVENINGS, when the sun has cooled down & the city is at it's calmest, inside Bedford Corners newest eclectic vintage boutique Not Just Vintage.

1260 Bedford Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11216 btw Fulton & Halsey street.

Starting:July 13th

Come shop or set-up shop while enjoying a relaxed environment, great food & mellow music.

All interested designers this market will provide up to 11;5x5 spaces inside NJV's studio & 3;5x5 spaces outside in front of NJV's boutique for each designer to showcase their pieces.

Set-up fee will be $25.00 inside and $35.00 outside per 5x5 space, every Sunday evening from 6p-10pm or later depending on the crowd, starting July 13th.

COME JOIN US!!! Designers lets make this market an all year long event...

To reserve a spot or for more info contact us at http://us.mc576.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=notjustvintage@yahoo.com.
For those who don't reserve a spot, this will be on a first come first serve basis.

Thanks
Maya & LaMonica @ Not Just Vintage
http://www.myspace.com/notjustvintage
http://www.myspace.com/criteria_inc
http://www.myspace.com/fatimaya

Not Just Vintage Look of the Week

2008-07-07T12:27:00.003-04:00

Key

Singer/Writer

www.myspace.com/keywantstogotoparis

"Key has a great sense of individuality and an audorable whimsical flair."

Free.99 reminders for the night!

2008-07-05T15:48:00.007-04:00

Now we all know with gas prices going up, salaries being cut, hundreds of lay-off's and skyrocketing prices, anything free is music to the ears. So I've gathered a couple of events that doesn't even require you to dip your hand in your wallet for admission!

July 5, 2008
Viva Africa!

Botswana's DJ Stone spins funky Pan African dance music including soukous, quaito, highlife, and more. DJ Ital Stone will be spinning at the Brooklyn Museums 1st saturdays, spinning for the dance party from 9pm to 11pm.
AFTER PARTY at 368 Atlantic avenue just before hoyt st.

"Farenheight Crew"

My cuzzo Gooseman has an annual Farenheight Crew backyard jam tonite, free to the public. Those of you who want to hear some good vybez, please come out for nice CLEAN and SAFE fun!
627 East 102nd between Glenwood and Faragut!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-04T13:45:00.006-04:00

There are literally like 100 bbq's and events this entire weekend but there's one FREE event tomorrow that's a MUST! You just might see me there..That is, if getting a plate from every bbq I attend doesn't hold me back(LOL)!

My girl is in CROOKLYN, YAY!!!

Yume Pics!

2008-07-03T03:55:00.010-04:00

fUtUre MOGULS

Ms.Bodega and Rain
Melissa S. Outasight

Me, Reemy, Nelle and NEKA
Fresh Daily and Rain

mR.dAPPER and N.E.S.H.A.

Last Saturday I stopped by Yume lounge for the Heaven or Hell party! An eclectic mix of people, familiar faces(that always happens at network/parties lately) and cool performances by Nola Darling and Fresh Daily(first time seeing him perform, relly good artist).Definitely had a lot of fun hanging out with N.E.S.H.A., Rain, Digital Doll Neka, Ms.Bodega, Reemy, NellyNelle and everybody's favorite girl Melissa S.

*And oh yeah,look out for an Outasight interview real soon*

Lissen2myart: Yann Couedor

2008-07-01T21:03:00.012-04:00

When Yann Couedor was growing up in Charenten Le Point, France, instead of roaming the small town as a young ecolier (that's boy in french!) he became infatuated with Afro American music and it's culture. The ill-minded and eclectic artist developed such a love that it took on new meaning in his life.It played a major role in shaping his skill. As Couedor jammed to the tunes of Al Johnson, The Manhattans, Bel Biv Devoe, Bob Marley and the Notorious B.I.G. along with other black prolific notables, his passion and love greatened. Walking through the streets and taking glimpses of posters on walls and store fronts tickled his artistic nerve. Scrapes and scrabbles from old and new posters would give birth to his love for collages and cutouts. Like many artist who create a signature technique, Couedor uses collages that represent his love for combining print with abstract photography reproduced from popular photos of musicians and historical figures. A human sponge to the world and culture around him, Couedor heightened his skill by going to school and further studying art in Paris and South Africa. Serving as a student of the art world Couedor combined and illustrated all his inspiration, research and experience that he'd ever amassed on canvas.

Reminiscent of the slum and elite jazz filled, Harlem street swagger walking, slick talking, NY city life circa 1940-88 inspired paintings, produced by the Late Romare Bearden, Couedor shadows a hint of the same social, political and musical themes portrayed in Bearden's works. With a modernized twist, Couerdon uses images of artist like Biggie, Outkast, Martin Luther King and the Jackson Five mixed with collage backgrounds of vintage aunctioned off photographs, articles of old mags, newspapers and classic replicas.

Couedor is amazing at creating rich works that are musically and socially inspired pieces.He creates visuals that make you believe that you can actually hear the illuminating sounds of Stevie singing,"Golden Lady", or Public Enemy's pulse hitting classic, "Fight the Power" blaring from his collection, which in fact is appropiately titled, "Lissen2myArt." In 2007 Couedor showcased a private preview at the Studio de la Grande Armee which was organized and set-up for the press release of Kanye West album,"Graduation."

With a dope gift to take us through his visual dimensions, Couedor is indeed a breath of fresh air and a reminder that, like Hip-Hop art is not dead! Real recognize real, show this brother some love and take a minute to lissen to his art!

For Press or Purchase, contact:

Yrene 0033621276723 or email upfirstpromo@yahoo.fr

Check his blog out too http://www.lissen2myart.blogspot.com/

Friend him on myspace too, tell him Crooklyn Chronicles sent ya! www.myspace.com/lissen2myart

NJV Looks of the Week

2008-06-30T14:23:00.006-04:00

1256 Bedford ave btw Fulton and Halsey

Brooklyn, New York 11216

718.399.3617

Notjustvintage@yahoo.com

On Sundays you can catch me at Not Just Vintage NOW! Working at a vintage shop definitely has it's perks.Being surrounded by great vintage finds, unique Crooklynites and bubbly out-of-towners has forced me to snap away and document their fierce and fabulous flair. So every week I will be adding a look/'s of the week! Enjoy and stop by!

1/2 NJV's owner Lamonica

It's Saturday!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-28T10:49:00.003-04:00

Hey Crooklynites, Im sorry for being really behind on the posts. I have pending Crooklyn interviews in process and lots of events to cover that will definitely be ready for next week. In the meantime enjoy these events this weekend....

Calling all Models!

Nas our favorite photographer

Ms.Bodega's one of the host, owwwwww!!!!!!

Here's a slight preview for one of next week's feature....

Yann Couedor

Produced, Written, and Directed by
(Spike Lee) 210 x 89 cm

So ill.....

We Snap Well:)

2008-06-23T21:04:00.005-04:00

This weekend I felt like what Ms. Bodega likes to call, VERY snap happy! After a busy and exhausting week, I hung out and enjoyed Crooklyn! I'm not the best at taking flicks or going out all the time, but since I bought a new camera I've really been able to look at Crooklyn from truly another view. I took flicks of friends and "new friends" of Crooklyn Chronicles and I shared interesting conversations, ran into people I did and didn't want to see... All in all taking in the air and enjoying the weekend was amazing. Love u Taneka and Sacchi!!!!!...

Guess what?!, You can all catch me at Not Just Vintage on Sundays helping the ladies out! My first Sunday there was amazing, Lamonica is hilarious and so creative! And Maya the funny business women with the adorable chuckle is just too cute. Shout out to Not Just Vintage customers who are very stylish and sweet. Another shout out to Lenyice and Zakiya at Bushbaby, Al aka Minority Reporter for stopping by and letting us finally figure out what camera he really has! Miriah from San Francisco and her dope ducktape wallet creation. My girl Shantelle aka Ladybug over at Harriet's, Melissa S. from Yume:) and Suzanne from
http://www.worthy-opponent.blogspot.com/ ENJOY the pics:)

Crooklyn+ Bodega Wrap-up

2008-06-20T02:24:00.021-04:00

Well it came and left.... After about three weeks of preparation, networking, business cards hunts and no sleep, Bodega meets Crooklyn Chronicles was indeed a success! I can't describe the feeling of having so much YOUNG and talented individuals in one room. First of all we were blessed to be holding this event in NOT JUST VINTAGE the best vintage shop in Crooklyn! Brightly clad along with the wonderful decor were an eclectic mix of mingling artist, admirers, great supporters(especially TANEKA:), family and friends! There was Rain (Designer of KissedbyRain) who was my first feature EVER on this blog, Sevy the hobo bag extrodinaire. A-smash and Mickey Factz, two unsigned ill MC's who in fact gave us great freestyle footage, courtesy of Vlad,(Hatian V) the three dimensional hustler. Atiya, networking G and Couture designer. Saint and Precize, the trendetters in every way possible. Brandyn the budding filmakerand bro bro for life. The AOS networking family, Team Yume, Tenille from NYSD and Clutch mag.The cardigan clad and very dapper Brooklyn Circus crew as well as the host, our people's champ of the blogger's world Al, Mr. Minority Report. It was the first but definitely not the last!!!!!!! Thanks to everybody, especially the most humble,creative and hardworking duo,NJV's owners Lamonica and Maya:)

Check out the exclusive freestyle footage from A-smash and Mickz recorded by me and Vlad.

This is sure to be a classic one day!

Paper Touchin........

2008-06-20T01:05:00.003-04:00

When most twenty-year old's are worrying about what nail polish to put on their nails next week(lol, like me!), there's one partiucular twenty year old worrying about air conditioning for her store, press/pr and maintaining a succesful business in of course Crooklyn, New York! Former ballet dancer Victoria Shelton opened up shop on November 2007. The pocket-friendly boutique, Paper Doll sits in the calm and cute Prospect Heights area on bond street."At first when I opened my store I was so excited, but then all that excitement kind of faded when I realized how much work I really had to do,"sweetly confessed by the paper princess. For Victoria, Paper doll has become her baby and it's sure has had it's share of labor pains. After enrolling in City Tech college in 2006 for Fashion Marketing, Victoria's focus shifted after her father got really sick and passed away. The agony of losing her father discouraged her from school, life and everything around her. Throughout the hardships Victoria took a moment to reflect and revaluated what she really wanted out of life. With careful consideration she decided owning her own boutique was definitely in line for her future. With the help and support of her mommy(don't we just love mommies:), Victoria created a well thought out business plan. A business plan that would indeed come true and inspire girls who once played dress up with paper dolls as little girls.The cutesy(Yes another word I made up, lol) tatted up doll is quite the savy business woman on a mission to make her store the new buzz that's simply on the mouths of every fly, street chic, fashionista!

Visit Paperdoll and tell Victoria CrooklynChronicles sent you!

Crooklyn Swagger/Style Files (Pt. 1)

2008-06-20T00:40:00.003-04:00

What does Crooklyn mean to you?
Brooklyn to me feels like the world.I think its one of the most diverse boroughs throughout new york.

What's your goal?
To be an entertainer to all audiences from fashion to music and even magazine editorials. Somehow I want my presence & talents to be groundbreaking.

What's playing in your ipod? Fuck Me Pumps by Amy Winehouse.

What's this Melissa London Buzz about?
Hmmm.. whats my Buzz lol? well I'm an aspiring rapper/performer. I love everything about music fashion and fame. Please do not confuse it with greed.What sets me aside from the ordinary people in the game now a days is that(..drumrolls please...) Im a transexual female meaning I was born one gender now living my life as the opposite. For further details use your imagination, lol.So therefore I feel like there's not many like me out here doing their thing.

When is your music coming out??
By August of 2008 my mixtape will all ready be out on the streets to purchase.

TODAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

2008-06-18T15:59:00.003-04:00

Daddies:)

2008-06-15T16:33:00.006-04:00

I must say that I am fortunate to have a Daddy still around and married to my mommy because we all now that saying "Mama's baby, Papa's mayb'e...." and in my case I'm both their baby. Now you know I had to put up a picture of Crooklyn's favorite girl Troy and her fictional Daddy in the classic spike joint perfectly titled "CROOKLYN"(of course!) This film has profoundly changed the perception of the father figure and the black family! So, salute to all father's today, unfortunately there is not a lot around but there is indeed some still standing.

Awwwww a pic of me and my Daddy from back in the day:)

Watch this moving poem from Spokenword poet, Shihan!

A.L.I.E.N. wants you...

2008-06-12T20:01:00.009-04:00

The very cool crew and designers of A.L.I.E.N.(A Legion In Every Nation) is looking for brainy but cool self-starter's that's willing to help their movement and company grow beyond measures. Now I"m sure you have seen these individually clad eclectic street connoisseurs hanging out in the city. True rebels to conformity, these group of individuals have developed a movement and street wear for the unconventional soul. The downtown cool kids with a 80's and 90's aesthetic are not afraid to wear gaudy jewelry, combined with vintage inspired threads and excessive(*good thing) color. If you are interested in working with this clothing line and can professionally hold down the responsibility of accounting and bookeeping duties, definitely apply!

It's vital that you have:

- Multi-tasking skills- Computer Savvy: Excel is a must, Quickbooks is a plus- Knowledge of Accounts receivable and payableNon-paidCollege Credit given where applicable. Paid with the Right Experience and proof of work.

There are also looking for:

Also Looking for Self motivated Graphic designers , Web designers , as well as some knowledge in HTML. Artist , Taking all interns , Freelance workers , Or people looking to be apart of a great growing company there will be Interviews this Friday and Sat in the city for more information .

Knowledge of Adobe - Illustrator - HTM - Web Design- ArtistInterns - Will be working with our Studio and out of our studio in BK so if you like taking Pictures etc and looking to get some Knowledge as well come on by and get interviewed photography - portraiture - photographer film - production - photography.

Please send your Resume or contact information with what is it you do or would see your self applying for . Dorjan@thegalaxyriders.com

To find out more about A.L.I.E.N. go to:

http://www.galaxyriders.com/ or www.myspace/alienthecrew

Here's some cool pics of the line....

Tell them CrooklynChronicles sent ya!

Vlad's Making Moves!

2008-06-11T15:30:00.009-04:00

Vlad (previous feature,http://www.crooklynchronicles.com/2008/05/hes-next.html)is making a lot of moves right now. The Youtube famed comedian has been getting thousands of video views for his hilarious character Haitian V. The Crooklyn son of Haitian and Dominican parents has been filming his comedic webisodes for quite a while now and is currently embarking on the world of media more than ever. The model, actor and Crooklyn acclaimed celeb has everybody laughing with belly aches.Proud Haitians, Crooklynites, Mama's(my mommy),kick collectors, college students,round the wayers(yes I said wayers..) and CVS employee's(I seen you guys watching the bklyn sky vid on the iphone yesterday) are all fans of this talented dude! Watch this three part interview below! And don't forget to search for Hatian V on youtube!

Video1

TRUE STORIES RADIO W/ HAITIAN V PT.3
Uploaded by truestoriesradio

Video 2

TRUE STORIES RADIO W/ HAITIAN V PT.2
Uploaded by truestoriesradio

Video 3

TRUE STORIES RADIO W/ HAITIAN V Pt. 3
Uploaded by truestoriesradio

Tonight he'll be performing at:

Laugh Lounge

151 Essex Btw Stanton and Rivington

Show starts at 7:30 sharp!

Crooklynchronicles is on MYSPACE!

2008-06-11T03:15:00.005-04:00

I'm on Myspace:) ADD me www.myspace.com/crooklynchronicles1988

Come on now....

2008-06-10T00:23:00.009-04:00

This elementary-like collage pictured above was not created by 11-13 year old school kids but by our good old friends at Urban Outfitters. Fly Crooklyn girls and guys usually flock to the city but just recently, Urban Outfitters has built a home in Crooklyn.When I first found out that there was an Urban Outfitters that was going to be Crooklyn bound I had a sigh of relief. Sometimes, the commute to and from Soho can be a pain for Crooklynites with all those ridiculous train changes. Before I headed out in that direction today I received an email about their store opening ad back in March. Now, I've seen previous ads for Urban Outfitters and never before have I seen cut images of Biggie, Jay-z, Mike Tyson and the Cosby's as images on what looked like a rushed attempt at making a quick flyer. If this is an attempt to be down with the "hood," when their located in CobbleHill/Caroll Gardens (nothing hoodish about these areas), I mean very WACK! What was the goal here with this ad???? It paints a perception of who they believed their target customers would only be. Ck is too diverse a town and deserves better, I mean hell I love Jay and Big too but are they the faces of Urban Outfitters? It's one thing to include culture and race as a marketing tool but if your going to do it, Do it right! I am highly offended that Crooklyn received such representation and it makes me second guess their establishment. It's hard because Urban has some ill finds but I need to take a serious break from them, oh well there's always vintage:)

Saturday Special

2008-06-07T17:06:00.000-04:00

Enjoy these vintage videos from Crooklyn's Finest!!!! and do enjoy the HOT weather!

I'mma Vote OBAMA Way!

2008-06-03T21:02:00.005-04:00

Today is truly history in the making. Barack Obama is the first black nominee officially running for the world's most powerful office. As a child of the art world I am quite fond of the social gap between politics and art, but there's something about OBAMA that's making everybody have a change of heart! After everything he's faced he's still going strong!!!! The most eclectic artichects of the art world are taking notice and supporting him too.Taz Arnold, one-third of the new hip-hop, funk and free-spirited group SA-RA made a ill record and video

The chorus is hilarious,
"F@#% what ya momma say, i'mma vote obama way. We hood, we votin and throwing it up."

*Sidenote- Hillary opened alot of doors for females in this country, you gotta give it up for her too !!!!!

JUNE 18TH

2008-06-03T09:11:00.009-04:00

Okay after dealing with blogger and it's issues I can FINALLY announce the event!!!!!!!!!!!! So for almost a year I started CrooklynChronicles and it's been a couple of months since Kai(former CrooklynChronicles contributor) started 718bodega. We are proud to present to you our blog launch and networking event! I can't tell you how much young incredible designers, artists musicians and inspiring entrepeneurs that we rub elbows with on a daily basis. Some have been featured on our blogs and we feel that it's vital to introduce you to them! So we are asking you to come out and support. The event will be held at of course at Crooklyn's Chronicles favorite vintage shop NOT JUST VINTAGE(see january feature, www.crooklynchronicles.com/2008/01/honey-its-not-just-vintage.html). Writers, designers, stylist, singers,entrepeneurs and all eclectic walks of life please feel free to stop by!

URGENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-29T10:01:00.004-04:00

WARNING: THIS IS NOT A VIDEO TO VIEW AT WORK OR AROUND CHILDREN.VERY STRONG LANGUAGE!

I'm sure this is WAY off the topic but it's a must that I put this on the blog. The videos that are posted below are EXTREMELY alarming and scary! The first time my cousin Shawn sent it to me I had chills and was tearing up. I have no idea if this is a prank or for real but I beg young men and women to be very careful! In an era where little girls and boys even grown men and women (whatever your preference) are fascinated and blindly drawn in by materialistic things, sometimes consequences are forgot! I beg that we take more care of our bodies, value our selves way more than a Louis bag or if he/she is driving a new jaguar! AIDS is a epidemic that is killing ALL PEOPLE and the fact that there is a man that is or may be using it as a weapon to infect and kill just makes me LITERALLY SICK TO MY STOMACH. This man has said he's infected 1500 people. PLEASE BE CAREFUL and PASS THIS VIDEO ON. I'm praying this is just a idiotic pranker! He NEEDS TO BE ARRESTED!!!!!!!

If the videos don't come up, here are the URL'S
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKmyP4ZScN4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=related&v=IVX-Jv1SMIA

TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-29T09:04:00.005-04:00

As a Transcultralist my love for art and culture has no limits. So, tonight it's only right that I attend this ECLECTIC event in CROOKLYN. Founder Bradley K. Hagan has created an evening where diverse artists from different countries showcase their creativity in efforts to find a common ground. Let's embrace this movement!!!
The event will be at the GALAPAGOS Art Space in Williamsburg with a small $10 door fee!

To find out more info on THIRSTNYC go to http://www.myspace.com/thirstny

For my Crooklyn Teens!!!

2008-05-24T21:32:00.005-04:00

Okay, so this is so off of Crooklyn topics but for all of my teen readers I did two book reviews for ELLEgirl.COM and surprisingly I really liked the books. I mean generally I wouldn't rush to Barnes and Noble or Borders for young adult novels but these two books took me back to a time when I was really young and a little more fragile to the ways of the world! So if your between the ages of 13-18 I really recommend it! If you get a chance tell ELLEgirl I sent ya!

Check out my book reviews!

http://blog.ellegirl.com/blog/2008/05/ellegirl-readsc.html#more

http://blog.ellegirl.com/blog/2008/05/ellegirl-readsw.html

Crooklyn + Bodega!!!

2008-05-24T19:26:00.008-04:00

About 9 something this morn Crooklyn Chronicles and 718 Bodega joined forces for a promo shoot for an up coming event on June 18th(Plzzzz save the date:). At a time where blogs focus on wild rumors and celeb escapades, we are two Crooklyn "Modern Misfits," on a mission to deliver you round the clock info on WHAT'S NEXT. The budding journalist (ME:) and driven boutique owner-to-be (Kai:) continue to scurry the city for underground talent and innovation that you need to KNOW! Stay tuned for more info about our June 18th event. Cant tell you all the details yet, so check back for more!

Photo Credit: Nasilele Holland
NasilelePhotography.com

Dance Africa 2008!

2008-05-23T11:48:00.006-04:00

(Pic courtesy of FLICKR)

It's BACK......Dance Africa in Fort Greene this weekend is where real Crooklynites need to be OKAY!

So WHAT if you didn't go to MIAMI for Memorial weekend! Just chill, take the nearest train to Atlantic and come on down and enjoy the company of great people, good food(Everybody know's I love to EAT) good music and of course INDIE DESIGNERS! So much will be going on down there, in fact I found in an event that's a SURE hot spot this Monday!

Habbana Outpost which sits in the heart of Da Greene and serves as a chill spot for all transcultralist,unconventionals, fashionistas, Eco-chic bredrens and Eclectic equillibrium's has an event, DO CHECK IT OUT!!!!!

A Crooklyn READ!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-23T09:23:00.011-04:00

Being a Crooklynite and living in one of the most diverse places in the world is simply refreshing. When I'm surrounded by so many individuals of different cultures it truly brings me closer to people from all walks of life more and more. Living in the melting pot of diversity I have the opportunity to be a sponge and soak it all up! Around my way I get a five minute lesson in Arabic at my local cornerstore by the hilarious Yemen owner who decided to rename me Shahla, which means "Beautiful Eyes." Then, If I'm running countless errands on Flatbush avenue I usually receive two very honorable bows from my favorite Ethopian and Jamaican Rasta buddies (who might I add are both ridiculously gorgeous) who sells me shea butter and lectures me on how to remain pure and regal while living "inna Babylon infiltrated society." Somedays I get to brush up my Salsa dancing skills or discuss Jay-z lyrics with the cute and very tall Puerto Rican employee from the 99 cents store on Cortelyou. On weekends I get to chat it up with the funny Japanese lady at the cleaners about topics ranging from jerk chicken to Stella Mccartney. Almost no where in the world can one experience that but here. I've made it a duty to get to know everyone, often times to some that seems peculiar in a world where stereotypes unfortunately get the best of us and limit boundless possibilties. Claude Grunitzky, a true optimist and Editor-in-Chief of Trace Magazine has created a movement that will broaden our perspective and lives.

When I first read about Transcultralism in TRACE magazine I was in awe by the fact that there was a word that defined my quest and role in life. For those of you anxious for the definition, Transcultralism is a movement and lifeline that emphasizes on examining and incorporating studies on how we can influence/or be incluenced by different cultures, lifestyles and identities. Grunitzky and TRACE collaborators have created a book titled,
"Transculturalism: How the World is Coming Together," that consists of moving essays by transcultralist from all over the world.

I'm up to this essay, here's a sneak peek, http://www.transculturalism.com/popup/index.cfm?essay_ID=3.

Last week I had the chance to meet Claude at the Fiaf in the LEskyroom and I must say he is truly a humble down to earth trancultralist on a mission to change lives. Do read and Spread the WORD!

These are some pics of the lecture I attended! A little dark and blurry, Sorry:(

(Transcultralist meet and greet each other)

(Transcultralist Discuss, World Nomad, Dre and Silvana)

(Trace staff writer Nikko Misko Marko Lencek-Inagaki and former Trace Intern)

(FIERCE Transcultralists, Dre and Me)

(WHEN Two World Nomads COLLIDE,LOL)

(Myself with the man of the night, Claude Grunitzky)

To find out more Transcultralism and the book, visit http://www.transculturalism.com/. And SUPPORT TRACE, it's the only magazine right now that features substantial content these days, http://www.trace212.com/!

He's Next!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-21T17:34:00.016-04:00

Name: Vladimir Bartholemew The lonious Rasputent Slocumb Calixte III...AKA:..... Haitian V, Entertainments Future, Black Zack Morris, Morris Bestnut (I'll Explain Later)...LOL

(Photo Courtesy,Shrek)

Age: I Play 19 On TV..

Hometown: Flatbush, Crooklyn NY BOOYACKA!!!!! BAP!BAP! BAP!

What Is that you do, what's your network? What are you working on right now?
I Am.. An Actor/Comedian/Model/Musician/Photographer/DancingInstructor/Cook & Porn Star...(Again I'll Explain)LOL...

(Photo courtesy:Shareif Ziyadat)

Network: I Rub Elbows With The Stinkin' Rich & Famous.Actors,Artists, Models & Photographers. But I Also Rub Elbows With The Goons & Goblins Of The Hood... From Flatbush To Hollywood & Back Again..Working On Right Now:A Few Indie Films & Some Pilots, The 2nd Volume To MyMixtape "NewElevator Music".. Also Working On A DVD Of Comedic Skits Including A Comedic Porno Which Explains Whom "Morris Bestnut" Is...LOL

Crooklyn is..My Birthplace...The Greatest City In The World...PERIOD SON!!!!! LOL

Being a black man in America: Is Always Exploited As A Chip On The Black Man's Shoulder.. But I Am Grinding, Can't Blame Anyone For Anything...GetYours!!!!

Diversity in this country...Is Growing. Change Is Happening.

I like Crooklyn Girls because: They Can Dutty Wine The Best...LOL. They Keep It Realer Than Most..Plus They Understand A Crooklyn Dude A Little More...

(Photo Courtesy: Ron Bass)

Favorite Rapper: Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G... It's Between Them 2..Most ill unsigned hype: A-Smash, Mickey Factz, Champ B...

Why should girls all over the globe love Crooklyn Dudes:) We Are The Swag Enforcers. Crooklyn Breeds Kings...BIG, Jay-Z, Michael Jordan, Nas (Research! He Was Born In BK), Vlad, Chris Rock Eddie Murphy. It's Just A Glow Like Leroy...LOL..Oh Yeah &C ause Beyonce's Doing It Too..

(Photo Courtesy, Johnny Nunez)

Haiti is: Underated.. It's Where The Strongest Woman In The World (Mi Madre) Is From. Haiti Is The Trendsetter... First Place Where Black People Were Independent..Read Up!!!

Favorite Line from a song..
Only Make Moves When Your Heart's In It, And Live The Phrase Sky's The Limit...Notorious B.I.G - Sky's The Limit

Song that best describes Crooklyn:
Jay-Z - Where I'm From...

Favorite Quote.."We Do What We Have To Do, In Order To Do What We Want To Do" -Forrest Whitaker

(Photo Courtesy, Ron Bass)

DA BUSH means... West Indian Food Anytime, Catch A Cab Going Anywhere... And Flatbush Made Me What I Am..Molded Me Into The Fine Gentleman That Sits Before YOU.

Your Mission: Same Mission We Do Every Night Pinky....LOL. Just To Use My Talents To Acquire Success...Even Though It's Not Measured By The Clothes On Your Back, Super Model Your Married To, Or Money In Your Bank Account:..Well Maybe The Last Part A Little. But Also Make Sure My Family & I Are Straight...

(Photo Courtesy, Shrek)

Your biggest Pet Peeve: Ugly Feet In Open Toe Sandals, BIG Size Stickers Kept On Fitted Hats, Saggin' Jeans On Your Thighs,Tight Jeans But Saggin' (Make Up Your Mind Homie), Not Having My Sneaker Size & That Optimum Commercial 877 393 4 4 48!..Uhhh

Your favorite Crooklyn Spot: Kennedy's Fried Chicken, Sea, Arch Diner A.K.A "The Max", Deli On Nostrand & Beverly By The Flatbush Bound 2 Train Exit (Best Sandwiches In The World With A Free Capri Sun) & The Pizzeria On Ave. R & Nostrand...

A LOVER or fighter: I Fight For Love, But I'm A Lover...

Favorite Food: Macc & Cheese...

Why does Crooklyn motivate you: Crooklyn Is The Center Of The World To Me. It's Home But It Opens Your Eyes. It Embraces You But Can Still Punch You In The Back Of The Head At The Same Time.You Can Either Live Like The Huxtables Or Live Like Evans'...

Why do we want to know the Black republican: Cause Most Say I Am An Interesting Fellow.. I'll Give You The Best Show Youv'e Seen In Your Life, Then You'll See Me Again.. I Have Excellent Conversation, I Smell Good Majority Of The Time, I'll Teach You Bad Words In Creole, I Have More Stories Than Your Grandaddy & 'Em & It's Better Than Just Finding Out What Flavor Chips Britney Spears Likes To Eat Or What Nick Cannon & Mariah Are Doing...

What turns you off about people: Ignorance, Lies, NoSense Of Humor, Bad Hygene & If You Can't Do "The BrukUp"...

Favorite Mag. XXL, KING, VIBE, POW, Laced, GQ Men, Kicksclusive & Complex...

When I'm on the scene I'm rockin: I Can Have On Hot T (Preff. TodeStule, BSKY, Lemar &Dauley, A.L.I.E.N & Rocksmith) Hard Denim Jeans (Preff: Uniqlo, Nudie, Bengi Or Lucky Brand) & A Pair Of "What Are Those?"...Or I Can Flip It On My Andre 3 Stacks Mental & Be In Some Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic Or Jay Kos!

Favorite clothing spot:So Many, But I'll Narrow Down To.... Commonwealth, Boundless, SmallWorld, Uniqlo, A/X, Union, Atrium, Vinnies, Supreme , eBay(LOL), Vintage Shops & A Bunch Of Online Stores..

(Photo courtesy Ron Bass)

*What's something we would never know about you?*
I Shot Shot The Deputy...LOL...I Got Kicked By A Horse In The Hip Like 2 Years Ago.. I Never Told Anyone Until Now. I Held The Tail & Said "This Is What Women Are Paying Top Dollar For" Out Of No Where Comes This Kick That Sends Me About 5 Feet To The Ground. Oh Yeah I Sing & Play Instruments Also.. (Drums, Piano, Bass Guitar) I Am Going To Start Playing After Shows... Kinda Like Jamie Foxx..KINDA!!

(Photo courtesy,,Ron Bass)
Vlad's Hip-hop Comedy mixtape!!!!!
Link To Download http://sharebee.com/429b35e2

Check out his blog and find out more about him http://www.entertainmentsfuture.blogspot.com/ , tell him CrooklynChronicles sent you:)

Gotta OLD SOUL......

2008-05-21T04:53:00.011-04:00

It's 5:00 am and I'm still studying for finals! I went from sleeping on the keypad to searching the net googling every five minutes. Also, I'm super tight that I didnt get to go out with Muna ( Kai, www.718bodega.blogspot.com) and the ladies to SOB'S. But,the first time in my life procrastination has paid off...
Look what I found....

MILES you can't get no better than that.....And NO it's not an event where you'll run into your Grandaddy sitting in a smoke filled dark bar chatting it up with the buddies and chewing tobacco while talking about the good ol' days! It's a night of homage from the babies of the babies who were nestled to sleep by songs like,"So What," "Godchild," "Round Midnight," and so much more!!I could just go on and on...It's an event courtesy of www.old-soulz.blogspot.com that includes live art and ill Dj's...I can't wait! Bye Bye Finals get away from me so I can have fun again:)
Tell Old-Soulz,CROOKLYN CHRONICLES sent you. Don't forget to bow down on your knees and thank them for hosting such a sweet event! Also look out for interviews by the featured artist painting that night...(I'm def gonna work on that!)
*Reminder, this is a 21+ event....

Hey There I'm on.....

2008-05-21T00:55:00.002-04:00

Hehehehehheh....okay that's just my cynical way of teasing ya....but really, Crooklyn Chronicles has a group on Facebook now and a Myspace page coming to a comp near you. I tried to leave those two alone but let's face it some of us have developed many contacts through them! Click on the link and join for beat by beat CC updates!!!!

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17978587059&ref=ts

Can't Knock Her Hustle!

2008-05-20T01:34:00.007-04:00

(Shantelle, Designer of National Society of Soul)

Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and of course "Eclectic" RBG'S all over the globe has been donning crochet pieces for years. Today there's a determined woman on a mission to reinvent the trend with more Soul than ever before! Shantelle M.Brumfield aka Ms.LADYBUG is a DC raised designer with a hot vintage inspired collection of crochet, embroidered and sewed pieces ranging from cute clutches, earrings and even ugg like crochet warmies. Taught by her grandmother and family friend the Howard Grad decided to name her line National Society of Soul, in great efforts to "emphasize the importance of life through fashion, written and social awareness."

(Models rocking National Society of Soul)
The former Cancer Research Scientist left her field to passionately pursue and design her business full-time. Talk about drive and dedication! The hobby at HU!(I just had to do that, lol)became a hit on campus that started the flourishing business.Brumfield started crocheting hats and scarve sets that dubbed her the name"miss crochet old lady." As the buzz grew Brumfield has made various appearances and press mentions at Howard University events, New Faces Fashion Show May 2007, DC Fashion Week 2008, LA Fashion Week 2008, XXL Magazine Jan/Feb 2008 and Jersey Magazine.

(Remy Ma, XXL magazine Jan/Feb 2008)
Ms. Ladybug and her collection has a positive aura that resonates when you get a chance to meet her and see her stuff! In an era of fashion where designers are forced to copy each other's pieces and trends, Brumfield marches to her own drum beat by healing us with soulful pieces!

If you would like to find out more about Shantelle visit:
http://www.nationalsocietyofsoul.com/
www.myspace.com/nationalsocietyofsoul
She has a blog too!!!
http://www.nationalsocietyofsoul.blogspot.com/
Hit her up and tell her Crooklyn Chronicles sent you:)

Bye Bye Finals!

2008-05-19T19:54:00.008-04:00

So if your like me, your probably sitting on your bed with a bunch of books and half-assed notes from the semester simply anticipating the end of FINALS! Just typing the word makes me cringe (Urgggg....) Or your probably back home from school patiently waiting for your friends to finish up with school so you guys can HAVE FUN again! For those of you lucky ones that are over with finals before Thursday, Party it UP and just GET LOOSE! Thanks to The Big Urban Mixtape for sending me the info!

"Buffalo Soldier, Dread Lock Rasta"

2008-05-17T09:44:00.006-04:00

Photo: Andrew Councill for The New York Times

If you live In Crooklyn, sure there's that Rasta,Dread or Natty around the way that kicks that OD knowledge on life and you can't help but listen. They GO IN on society and often times it's so damn true. Some people say it's hard to take them seriously.I believe it's because of all those false misconceptions that has been floating around about them for all these years. So, if your in the DC area by any chance, now through November 8 the Smithosonian Museum has the "Discovering Rastafari!" exhibit that will examine the diverse culture though art and artifacts from the Jamaican-born subculture.Check it out and if you can't make it check out the slideshow pics from the New York Times! http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/05/10/arts/design/20080510_RASTA_SS_index.html Check out a vintage clip from the most famous RASTA the world got a chance to be blessed with!!!
Mi Bwoy(LOL)BOB MARLEY!

Happy Birthday BOO!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-17T04:29:00.006-04:00

HAHAHAHAHA....I called the bridge boo! Crooklyn has a bday coming up..... On May 24 come join me and thousands of other Crooklynites walk over the bridge and CELEBRATE! It's not that bad of a walk either.I've done it before...TRUST:) It starts off at Cadman Plaza all day! Cross fingers in hopes of hot scorching NY weather! I love the HEAT!!!!!!!!!!

Harriet's Alter Ego!

2008-05-13T05:21:00.003-04:00

Sunday, May 18, 2008
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location:Harriet's Alter Ego Boutique & Art Gallery
Street: 293 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn (St. Marks/Prospect Pl.)
City/Town:Crooklyn, NY

Contact Info:
718-783-2074
Email:info@harrietsalteregoonline.com

World Nomad!

2008-05-12T15:05:00.005-04:00

The modern metropolis as cosmopolitan utopia, the savvy city dweller as cross-cultural flâneur—these are the dreams Claude Grunitzky, acclaimed editor of Trace magazine.

Now he brings them to FIAF for a night of inspired conversation. Grunitzky will discuss his vision of urban space as a place where diversity coalesces rather than collides—and where cultural borrowings gradually erode the edges of difference to forge a world of true universality. World Nomads (May 1-27) is a new program at FIAF exploring transculturalism - the exchange of ideas, artistic expression, and style - through the lens of contemporary world cultures.
FIAF Members $8 Non-Members $12 Buy Tickets www.fiaf.org Call 212 307 4100
Visit the box office: 55 East 59th Street (between Park & Madison)

-Nikko Misko Marko Lencek-Inagaki staff writer for TRACE212.com

I'll be there:)

Delivering the GOODS 24/7

2008-05-12T01:26:00.005-04:00

So, one of my besties(so cheesy, I know..lol) and Crooklyn contributors has ventured out and has her own blog. The Crooklynite is on a mission to deliver you the goods 24/7 ranging from fashion, music, culture, relationships and most importantly LIFE. Stop by www.718bodega.blogspot.com and tell her I sent you!!!!!!

Tired of Junior's Cheesecake??

2008-05-07T12:23:00.005-04:00

(Mr. Cake man)

If your not familiar with Cakeman Raven and it's 2008 something is obviously wrong, you must have been hiding under a rock! I went there yesterday and wondered why the hell isnt this cake shop already on my blog. I got a piece of red velvet cake for $6 which is very much worth it (trust me)! The cakes are so good often times their sold out in the middle of the day. Appointments for big occasions are sometimes hard to make but give it a try. Cakeman Raven, the cake extrodinare has done cakes for clients like Jay-z, Oprah, Robert Dinero, Yolanda Adams and so much more. It's worth a visit do stop by and tell them Crooklyn Chronicles sent you!
(That's the famous red velvet cake)

708-a Fulton St. Brooklyn New York 11217-1625 - 718.694.CAKE (2253)

Independent Trunk Show!!!!!!

2008-05-04T12:38:00.009-04:00

So, me and Digital Doll (Taneka) decided to hit up the Trunk Show on Atlantic yesterday. We got there a little late but had a good time. You know I couldn't have missed out on an event to meet independent and innovative artists, their practically my inspiration for starting this blog! As always meeting independent desginers puts a smile on my face:) It's nothing like being around innovative talent. They have so much enthusiasm and passion when they talk about their collections, it's refreshing to be around that energy opposed to snotty designers who have already made it big and forgot how they started out (something to think about....).Anyways, I wish the best for every designer that I spoke to last night and hopefully pretty soon I can feature most of them for an interview! Thanks so much to Christopher Gandsy who hosted the event in efforts to give indie designers an outlet to network and have people buy their pieces.Can't wait for the next event!
(Meeting, greeting and shopping)

(Christopher Gandsy, host of the event. If your an independent designer and would like to get in contact with Christopher to showcase your line for future events, email him at cgandsy@gmail.com)

(Christopher's friend and wife smile for the camera)

(Designer Atyia Thompson model her couture jacket and get this the accesory on her neck is a scarf and necklace, love it! Her line is called Xieryn...Hopefully an interview really soon!)

(A cute satchel tote bag fromthe Xieryn line)

(I don't know the correct name for the jewlery scarves yet but I just think it's so different and cute!)

(Digital Doll, Atyia and Ms.Eclectic*me* pose for the camera, longshot pics only plzz, LOL)

(Gina Mauro for Thimk designs, www.thimkdesigns.com)

(Digital Doll fell in love with this skirt from thimk)

(Megan Nugent for Photosynthesis, www.photosynthesis.etsy.com)

(Clutches, panties and briefs, SO Adorable!!)

(For all you writers these are the coolest journals, SIDENOTE: I'm not posting any pictures of the clothing from the line because it came out rather blurry.....Sorry, but please check the website for her clothing.)

(Joe, Friend of designer pose with closed eyes for Close Up Clothing)

(Designer Michael Van Bemmel pose for close-up clothing tee,www.closeupclothing.com)

(For all my Crooklyn BOYZ who loves Tees, more tees from closeup clothing)

(These dresses have very unique detailing as told to me by the designer....the line is called LanVy!)

(CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!)

(Everybody enjoying the night)

(Me and Neka!!!)

It was an awesome night, look out for more events to come!!!

Another Reminder!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-02T23:40:00.003-04:00

Enjoy a fun evening as you shop the clothing and accessories of Brooklyn’s finest up and coming indie fashion designers. Come prepared to nibble, drink, and walk way with the hottest clothing and accessories. The first 25 guests will recieve a complimentary gift bag.
Where: 388 Atlantic Ave b/w Hoyt and Bond
Time: 8pm-11:30pm
When: May 3rd, 2008

Designer Name Line Name Website
Carina Cid Black Rabbit NYC blackrabbitnyc.etsy.com
Micheal Bemmel Close Up Clothing closeupclothing.com
Jacob Gushue Project TransAction projecttransaction.com
Megan Nugent Photosyntesis photosynthesis.etsy.com
Gina Mauro Thimk ginamauroblogspot.com
Lisa Galinske Born in Eighty one bornineightyone.com
Jennifer Yi for Jennifer Yi jennifercomyijewelry.com

Crooklyn Honorable Mention!!!

2008-05-02T20:49:00.004-04:00

She's ill with dope word play that's so damn pure. Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond has written articles for Village Voice, Suede Magazine(Don't we miss that mag?), Metro and numerous others.

Since I've known the adored mentor(my mentor:),fierce writer and fashionista she's been working hard on her first novel titled,"Powdered Necklace." African Writing Magazine has featured an excerpt!!!

Enjoy and tell Crooklyn Chronicles what you think...

Love you Nan:)

http://www.african-writing.com/four/nanabrewhammond.htm

Words of Wisdom from the BDAY Gurl Kai:)

2008-04-26T04:02:00.002-04:00

Find She....

Sometimes its hard to maintain peace of mind, being a young black female has its challenges. I don't have the answers to life, shoot I'm still living it myself, but when you can gain insight on your inner self it helps. Something we gotta face as women or just individuals in general is that life isn't fair. Once we accept that, we learn to deal with everyday struggles. Remember keep your head up, with every tear comes a smile, live and learn!

Kissed By Rain Photoshoot(Behind-the-Scenes)

2008-04-26T00:17:00.008-04:00

HEY CROOKLYNITES!!!!!!!!!!

(Rain and the Models)

KissedbyRain is back and Ms. Eclectic has got behind the scenes photos of the shoot that took place in of course, a Crooklyn Brownstone. Just a couple of months ago I introduced you to designer Rain and I'm so happy to see she's still working hard.This time around the line is more grown-up with flirty dresses, cute skirts(a rosegold pencil skirt that I want that's not pictured below, sorry:)and even a male collection.Stay tuned for a new interview coming soon!

(Rain posing for my loud camera courtesy of my sis, lol)

(Me posing, Ms. Eclectic:)

(Photographer and good friend of Rain, Matthew Ramirez)
(Daniel Roundtree, Miss New York 2008)

(Model posing and laghing in between shots)

(Model posing in that very cute jacket)

(Ms. Daniel Strikes a hot pose)

(Other photographer and good friend of Rain, Daniel Bonilla a.k.a.nike food*inside joke)

(Everyone in their own world in between shoot)

(Introducing "NILE," I'm his agent, lol)

(She's the only that wants her pic taken at the moment, lol)

(The camera was driving me a little crazy on the set)

(wow)

(YOOOOOO NILE)

(Rain works with models and their poses)

(And last but not least, the lady of those quick two hrs, lol....RAIN!!!!!!!!)

Crooklyn Girls meet Andre J!!!

2008-04-22T01:15:00.007-04:00

(Andre J featured on French Vogue)

As the Crooklyn Girls strolled through the streets of Soho we stumbled into the lovely, bearded and 24 inch weaved socialite Andre J:) Here at Crooklyn Chronicles we support all walks of life especially those who dare to be different!!!!!!

www.myspace.com/supaherodre

Trunk Show

2008-04-16T18:27:00.002-04:00

Once again it is time to shop until you can't shop anymore. Come out on May 3rd form 8pm-11:30 and shop some of the best up and coming independent Fashion designers in NYC. *Free Gift bag for the 1st 25 people...

**Thanks to Christopher Gandsy for this**

Kai's Book Review

2008-04-14T22:38:00.005-04:00

Hey Crooklynites it's Kai and I have something for you ill readers to think about...

Crooklyn Chronicles is not only dedicated to delivering the goods on fashion and the hottest events, but bringing to light what’s going on in our lives (yours included). As young black women growing in the fashion industry and in a man’s world things can get pretty harsh. Improving ourselves and working on becoming strong women takes courage and willingness. As a 4th of the Crooklyn Chronicles team my focus is to simply acknowledge life and how to deal.
The first book featured deals with simple ways to keep the little things from taking over your life. "Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff...and It’s All Small Stuff," written by Richard Carlson can easily be in alliance with the law of attraction craze, by which I am an avid follower. I took all the information in this book not only as a guide to life and how to deal with others, but also how to value myself and most importantly learning that life is not an emergency.

As people we don’t take enough time to understand others. So often we jump to conclusions, we automatically ignore other opinions and fight to be right. In some cases debating your side can be helpful but at times learning others view points can be more beneficial to both parties. Each chapter in this book goes in depth on how to become more patient, understanding, and appreciative.
If we could all learn the essential aspects of dealing with ourselves and others, life will become a lot easier. Although life is definitely not easy, I strongly recommend this book for those who are dealing with the struggles life brings or if you just want to improve yourself. My favorite chapter in this book was “See the Glass as Already Broken (and Everything Else Too)”. It just deals with a Buddhist teaching that if you look at life as a glass cup that will eventually break you can find peace and value each day. Making peace with the way things are can help you to develop a more positive thought process. So whether you just got fired, you broke up with a partner, or your just not where you want to be in life, the first step is accepting that and acknowledging not that your stuck but being grateful and taking the next progressive step.
I would like to end with the most important message this book has taught me. Relax, relax, relax. This word means so much more than just being calm, cool, or collected. Remaining relaxed is honestly a state of mind. Personally, I have the habit to assume and quite often live by the philosophy “I expect the best, but I am prepared for the worst”. This in turn gives me comfort in the worst and “prepares” me for negative results. I, like many others don’t realize at times that just by putting a negative thought into our minds we are entertaining the idea of that thought coming to light. Other chapters in this book, like Relax, Quiet the Mind, and Set Aside Quiet Time Everyday are extremely beneficial. I am an avid participant in self help anything. Changing your behavior and thinking is a process, but well worth it. I strongly recommend this book for young black women to assist in dealing with themselves and relationships.

Oh yeah Happy Birthday Mommy:)

Takashi Murakami in BK!!!

2008-04-06T14:08:00.011-04:00

It seemed like everyone came out to the museum last night to view the amazing exhibit by the adored Murakami! Young and old, skateboarders, artist, breakdancers and electic individuals from all walks of life were in the place to be!!!!!!!! It was a night filled with great music, hot air(lol) and just simply a good vibe. Louis Vuitton graciously issued very exclusive limited edition Murakami Louis accesories and bags ranging from $500 to about $3,000 for purchase. For those who aren't familiar with Murakami's work and Japanese artistic culture, please do visit the exhibit to get an idea. Murakami's work is adorned by admirers like Kanye West, Marc Jacobs and many other's. Murakami's work is so loved by many because it fuses everything derived from popular culture that has ever been commercialized. His inspiration ranges from animation, comics, sex and fashion. It sort of made me feel like I was looking at a visual collage that sumed up everything I'd ever loved, hated and remembered in my innocent days. The bright colors tickled my memory and reminded me of the curious days of childhood. It's truly a breath of fresh of air to know that in this day and age there's an artist that can connect with us that way. To find out more about Murakami and the exhibit go to http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions/murakami/.

Below check out the cool pics of all the fun and excitement that myself, Kai,"The Bedstuy-Bond Girl(I'm working on a name change, lol) and Mademoiselle Madge had last night!!!!!!!!!!

Murakami admirer

Murakami's work(stole some shots, sorry):

Murakami's Louis Vuitton Monogram

ME:) Enjoying the Music by DJ Muro!!!!!!

Ms. Eclectic and Kaiwheezy, lol

Me and Justblazeeeeeee!!!!!!

Mademoiselle Madge, Mr. Vintage and Cbooskie lol

Colorful Nation

We Love Brooklyn!!!!!!!

Croooklyn GIRL'S

"Target First Saturdays"

2008-03-29T02:34:00.003-04:00

Every Saturday of the month The Brooklyn Museum presents, "Target First Saturdays." First of all IT'S FREE,hehehehe...That always gets me out!!Second, every first saturday hosts a cultural theme so think of how cool it would be to learn about different cultures, people and programs in your area.It's a great opportunity to come out in a diverse crowd where you can network, meet new people, eat great food and just simply have lots of free fun. Next Saturday the museum will explore Arts and Cultures of Japan and it's dynamic history in animation.
So mark it down on your calendar!!!!!!

Wake Up!!!!!!!

2008-03-25T20:04:00.009-04:00

(R.I.P. Julius P. Daniels)

Here at Crooklyn Chronicles we support artists but it would be odd to not support the community as well. Sure, we can talk about fashion, music and all that fun stuff but once in a while something hits so hard it stops you in your tracks and forces you to wake up. In Brooklyn on March 15, 2008 Julius Daniels also known as LB/Juelz was tragically taken at just 21 years old after being stabbed .

When I went to the wake of Julius I looked around the room and I noticed the consistent flow of family and friends shaking their heads in disbelief. Sadly it was the usual occasion where tears flowed, kleenex were clutched and the word "damn" was uttered almost every minute. I got the sense from everybody that it was just all to familiar. How many times are we supposed to watch a mother and father bury their child? We are dying before we can really make something of ourselves in this world. We need to reevaluate our priorities, live and love life. It's more to life than getting,"money over bitches" or "getting pissy drunk," and "poppin bottles." " and most frequently used "bodying our enemies,".Oh yeah, those terms are so loosely used. Coupled with that ridiculous state of mind there's animosity, envy and this dire need to fulfill this void of being respected. That state of mind embedded within us limits our potential and in some drive us to the point where we become cold-hearted human beings and killers of Julius and many innocent young men and women.What bothers me is that at twenty-one you are at your peak to make things happen in life and instantly it cuts off.All the hard work of a mother and father are put to waste by stupid fools with no sense of morality or compassion. So I beg everyone to wake up and love a little bit more, not only themselves but others. Let's become positive individuals with a goal to make it and give back. Let's educate ourselves and let's prove to society that we are not going to kill each other.Let the Daniel's family be the last to bury their child. Please let's WAKE UP!!!!!!!!

Crooklyn's FINEST!

2008-03-09T19:15:00.004-04:00

Heart throb never black and ugly as ever however....

We stil miss you and pay homage to your profound legacy!!!!

Crooklyn ChronicleS will forever rep you BIG!!!!!!

IM BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-03-08T20:10:00.008-05:00

I hereby apologize to you all!!!!!! Forgive me it has been extremely hectic...new job, school of course and the demands of life that do indeed come first. I came to a solution that I need a team!!!!! A team of very UNIQUE,WITTY,CONFIDENT beings that are going to help me to help you love Crooklyn and the eclectic world around it a little bit more!!!!!!!!!!!!! We're gonna step it-up a notch by covering events, more innovative indie artist, cool cliques, and of course just pure ill talent. So let me introduce you to the first three LOVELY contributors of TEAM CROOKLYN, LOL!!!!!!!!!

KAI:BED-STUY BOND GIRL

*Picture courtesy of

http://www.myspace.com/nasilelephotography

TANEKA:DIGITAL DOLL

(*January's Crooklyn GURL of the Month*)

http://www.myspace.com/fynest17

Marie:Mademoiselle Madge LUV

And again to all thanks for the love and acknowledgement so FAR!!!!!!!
Spread love it's the CROOKLYN WAY:)

CROOKLYN GURL OF THE MONTH!!!!!!

2008-02-19T19:17:00.011-05:00

Name: Nkosozana Kibibi Jahweta
Aka: Kohcoa
Age:sweet16forever*wink*
Birthplace: Claxton Bay, Trinidad
Hometown:Brooklyn
http://www.myspace.com/kohKoa

When did u start modeling? What is your biggest accomplishment in modeling so far? Whats's your other aspirations?
KOHCOA:I did my very first fashion show when I was 18yrs, but I'd say I 'really' started modeling when I was 20yrs. Through such a scrutinizng business, I've learned to 'love the skin I'm in.' I aspire to become very prominent in my generation....philanthropic/humanitarian duties, ...and all else I may do.

Kohcoa struts the catwalk because...............I need to be heard. However,before I am heard I must first be seen.

Brown Skin is............in!!!!

Trini sweet cuzzz..........alluh weh dingolay bad and fete 'til morn'n come...saucey babyyyyyyyy(lol!!!!!!!!!)

(clothing by http://www.myspace.com/nakimulidesigns)

Diversity............is in the air but has a long way coming

Natural hair...................ROCKKKkkkss!!!

What's Kohcoa's theme music when she's strutting throughout the streets of Crooklyn and the runway .............thru the Crooklyn streets: Get me bodied By Beyonce Knowles and on the runway: 'Superstar' By Lupe Fiasco

(clothing by http://www.myspace.com/nakimulidesigns)

Being Fly and educated is................by all means, a TKO!!

Personality is.............very vital.

Men I love are...........are so lucky I love them..*wink~wink*

I admire........my mother's indomitable strenght and art of all walks.

Music makes me...........high.

NY subways..........are a mess...eewww!!

Being a brown baby in this crazy world.........motivates me to become a 'somebody'. i.e Maya Angelou, Sojourner Truth, Dr. Martin Luther King.

("The Collector" Line by Christine Rhee)

In the future kohcoa..........will be Kohcoa "authenticated"

Favorite hangout spot in da city to sip wine and dine is.......................Marquee

Kohcoa's passion.......................is living life like its GOLDEN!!!

I rep Crooklyn because!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.....Crooklyn reps Kohcoa

Ripe is MO BETTA!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-18T19:43:00.020-05:00

(Ripe jewelry designer Folasade)

It's saucy and succlent, divine,and ridiculously tempting. Folasade the downtown chic a.k.a. Ms.MoBetta is hitting the scene explosively with her most ripest goods.

"I want it to be ripe and juicy, when you see it I want you to have to have it," says the twenty one year old Jewelry extrodinaire.
Hey what did you think I was talkin about, hahaha... Anyway the Crooklyn born and Harlem raised designer has been intensely working on the line for about eight months.With her optimistic persona Folasade is surely on her way to seeing every cool,unique chic or dude with his/her own MO rockin a ripe piece.The daughter of a former Alvin Ailey Dancer and spiritual guru wants her line to personally reflect her struggle to fill a needed void not only in the jewelry industry but in the life styles we lead.

(Folasade hard at work)

(Model wears Ripe)
In an insightful and what turned out to be a surprising interview on aim(yes you read correctly, aim...lol) we vented, and unveiled how Ripe jewelry was born. Growing up observing the mixed NY downtown scene for it's varied and diverse lifestyle,ranging from rich to poor you can't help but notice how Folasade embodies a persona that influences her designs and how she see's the world. She is also the beautiful product of mesh cultures always wanted more.She felt that things were moving but not fast enough.For two years she interned at the International Center of Photography and later worked with another NY based jewelry line Bijules.Later on Folasade found herself sitting in Brazil sipping caprihinas and simply enjoying life."I remember just coming home and working on my portfolio and designing, it's one of those moments in life where you see more of what the world has to offer. You just take it in, interpret it and bring it out in some form and I brought it out through my jewelry line," said Folasade.Coming home with a worldy sense of creation and influence was the major force into truly pursuing the line even more.

Ripe Jewlery!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ripe jewelry is bold, clever, raunchy and down right individual. If your like me and you walk through the streets with your own flair and a "Look world I'm here and in-your-face MO" then you want a ripe piece NOW. With prices ranging from 85 to 350 your guranteed to turn heads and have people bumping into poles in order to get a good glance. Folasade pushes the bar with ripe. It's not your average Tiffany's line of jewelry but so what, average is the worst form of settling in life. And that's definitely not in Folasade's agenda.As a female designer in a male prodominately scene she's determined to make ripe a global cult favorite.Where does the savy Downtown Belle see Ripe Jewelry in the future, she responds,"Mo Betta......" we all do too:) Sade ur major Doll!!!!!!!!!!!

If your interested in a ripe pieces,contact her at ripejewelrynyc@gmail.com and check out her myspace pages. www.myspace.com/sweetestaboo1 www.myspace.com/ripejewelrynyc

Sade Ripe will be MO BETTA!!!!!!!!

Look who's in NOT JUST VINTAGE!!!

2008-02-06T17:51:00.000-05:00

(M.I.A. and 1/2 of Not Just Vintage Maya!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Stop in Not Just Vintage Ladies

Support, Support, Support

*See I told you guys it's worth a visit*

www.myspace.com/notjustvintage

KISS, KISS, KISS

2008-01-30T19:46:00.001-05:00

(Rain working hard in her design room)

Hey Crooklynites!!!!!!!
So, my first entry I introduced you guys to my friend/business associate Rain and her clothing line Kissed by Rain.As promised her new line is coming soon and I am so excited.Stay tuned for a brand new interview and pics from the 08 collection.

Visit her blog too www.bekissed.blogspot.com

Farenheight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-25T18:11:00.000-05:00

(Some members of Farenheight)

Hey all, so this just in.......
There is a new sound Farenheight Crew (www.myspace.com/farenheightcrew) that started in Brooklyn by a group of young ambitious teenagers. They have a strong desire to throw not only parties but to DJ events. Cool kids with cool motives and in college, you can't ask for more than that! I love that their young and grinding like crazy! Stay tuned for an interview.........

You can catch them every Friday from six to eight on their College internet Radio show(http://www.wrub.buffalo.edu/) Doing Big Tings in Buffalo!!!!!!! Support, Support young black men on the rise, it's always refreshing to hear them doing something positive. Luv Ya Goosey!

"Trust Me It's NOT JUST VINTAGE!!!!!!!!"

2008-01-21T14:34:00.000-05:00

(Pic courtesy of Not Just Vintage)
When I walk through the streets of New York and I see young women like myself channeling that back in the day look I think about why we are fascinated with the word,idea,style or notion of vintage. Remember those dated square shaped flicks of our mother's posing with their high waisted acid wash jeans, big burgundy gazelle specs(LOL)and those long brightly colored bags with the foot long strap? Yeaaaaaaaah you do, lol... Well I bet even seeing those pictures now makes you want to simply pay homage to women who dared to walk the streets with their own individual style and flair!

Memory Lane

I mean think about women like Ms.Chaka Khan who use to rock the big honey brown hair,pastel colored tube tops and parachute pants.Or better yet Ms.Grace Jones in her leather cat suit and of course how can we forget the first Queen of Fabulosity, Ms.Ross! Between all these women they have one thing in common.They are all mesmorized and adorned globally by many modern misfits. With clones of Beyonce every where, the eclectic bunch scurring through the city in their vintage platforms and bright clutches feel the dire need to separate themselves from society's norm. Well ladybugs, Bedstuy vintage shop owners Maya and Lamonica understand your pain ladies and want you to know that vintage is indeed more than just clothes of the past. But, more like a divine tradition to memoralize influential times in our culture.So,with that said help them to help you get the point across throughout the streets of Crooklyn and every where else that this movement to be individually fierce is truly NOT JUST VINTAGE.

(Not Just Vintage Owners Maya Furbert and Lamonica Peterson)

Combine a determined bonafide hustler with a style architect that has a sharp eye for style and you get two innovative African American women that open a shop that looks like Black Barbie's closet! Business partners Maya and Lamonica hit the jackpot meeting each other.Maya, a Medgar Evers college graduate and Bermuda native has been grinding for a while now. From rigorous interning, bartending,and pain-in-the-butt retail(I've been there, lol) Maya got sick of not doing her own thing so she opened up a small store front on Fulton in BK. In her shop she sold bags, earrings, and any hot item that was indeed needed for fashionable ladies.Lamonica on the other hand was making a name for herself, so much that she was featured on BETJ's short run reality show hosted by Eva Pigford,"My Model Looks Better Than Yours." With the over critical cast of judges Lamonica didn't make the cut but that didn't stop her strive for success. She later became a personal stylist for singer/actress and video host on BETJ, Myoshi Marilla (http://www.myspace.com/myoshimarilla).

(My day at Not Just Vintage)

Last year in August of 2007 the two ladies realized their two sparked interests was a sure plan to fill their voids and fulfill a dream of combining business, style and culture. Not just Vintage opened their doors in the heart of Brooklyn,Bed-stuy.Since the opening both business partners pledge on building up black youths in their community. Maya and Lamonica want them to know you can use fashion as an outlet to showcase their talents. Both fashion conniseurs have also set up their Bedford shop Not Just Vintage to be a place where photoshoots as well as classes can be taken(if you need a venue hit them up).
Style architect Lamonica and her beautiful pieces!

Maya the bizness woman, such a sweetheart!

Me posing in front of my obsession

This vintage Louis is sick!!!!!!!

Cute!

Me posing!!!!!!

Visit the shop!!

The powerful force of determination and passion fused together always leads to big things so please support these women. Pleasant, powerful and strong black women on the rise! SUPPORT, SUPPORT, SUPPORT!!!!!!!!! Visit their myspace page and tell them I sent you:)
http://www.myspace.com/notjustvintage

Bon Voyage my friend!!!!!(Oah, Oah, lol)

2008-01-17T20:53:00.000-05:00

Let's say your walking down the streets your head is hung low and this happy, crazy, energetic ray of sunshine comes up to you and immediately breaks you out of your funk...Well.... my friend and my soul star Andre takes the cake for forever putting a smile on my face. Andre CrooklynChronicles salutes you!!!!!!!!!!!

I told myself I would leave all my personal ish off the blog but I have to acknowledge this guy. Dre you are someone who has triumphed through everything that you have been faced with. Your determination lets me know that the shackles put on the souls of young men and women today can be broken. I love you dearly and I ask that when you are on your trip please explore life, culture, people, and the unique and eclectic ways of the world and just have fun with it!!!!!!!!

To all my readers wondering who the hell is Andre??!!!!!!!! Trust me in a few years you will. NOBODY HUSTLES LIKE HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!*Remember the name Andre Singleton
*He is my friend, sexy beast,(LOL) activist and survivor.
Andre is going away for a Semster at Sea to explore the world. I am gonna miss u BOO, oah, oah!!!Keep inspiring!!!!!!!!!

You better bring me back souvenirs BOY, luv ya smoochezzzzzz
*Sorry I stole all the pics without asking, lol!!!!!!!!!!

Kesed: The SHIT!

2008-01-16T18:09:00.004-05:00

I am a fan of spoken word and I have heard and actually seen this poet Kesed perform...don't know as much about him but hopefully I can interview him soon!! Stay tuned, visit his myspace page for more of his ill words!

Coup d' etat Online Launch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-16T15:19:00.000-05:00

With t-shirt lines emerging from every where possible there has to be one that stands out.CrooklynChronicles awards that to Coup d'etat. For a year now I have been buzzing about this line to everyone. Brand owners Daoud Abeid and Rasu Jilani developed an expanding global clothing line that conveys messages of revolutionary change with bold statements and images that dare us to wear it and feel it.This week they have launched their online store, please check it out http://www.cdtbk.bigcartel.com/. Let's make their clothes more than a fashion statement, make it a movement. Let them know Crooklyn Chronicles sent you!
*Hopefully there will be a feature on them soon, Stay tuned!

Check out their myspace page www.myspace.com/cdtbk (pics courtesy of myspace page)
Other site: http://www.cdtbk.com/

Positive Vybez:Teen Diaries!!!!!!!

2008-01-14T13:57:00.000-05:00

(logo courtesy of http://www.teendiariesonline.com/)

When I find out about a program/organization or specific network that's doing something positive for the community, society and the world it will be given the spotlight as "Positive Vybez" so stay tuned for more...Crooklyn Chronicles first Positive Vybez addition goes to Teen Diaries, Read on!!!!!!!!!

It is always refreshing to come across a program/organization that nurtures the careers of the youth. Teendiaries online is a multicultural media/journalism network for females between the ages of 13 through 22.Teendiaries was founded by former television producer, model/honey mag writer Aeshia De Vore Branch.It is an entertaining educational source where teen bloggers along with media experienced women give advice and insightful info on life,fashion, beauty, finance,entertainment, careers etc. I've been given great advice from mentors(Mommy,Anna,Nana,Penny:)whose always encouraged me to intern and find these kind of programs. So my advice to young ladies reading this is when your a teenage girl and you have high hopes of being a journalist or to work in any profession of choice,hands on training and experience is so needed.If your a media junkie(like me) and interested in working in that field Teen Diaries supplies that and the mentoring of industry experienced women.Do apply if you like and tell them I sent you!
Not only is Teendiaries helpful with building your career it helps with life's issues. It's not always easy being a girl in this crazy world and the blog can help you out with every topic ranging from sex to trouble at school, you name it nothing is left out.Whether your a teen or not read the blog, find out more info, to give donations(worth donating),or to even apply go to the link above the pic and enjoy!!!! Tell them I sent U:)

In the Words of the Great Man...........

2008-01-08T02:01:00.000-05:00

In recent days I have learned that a community is more than just the people who live within your area.Fortunately because of my blog my community is growing from all different places...So, I am soooooooo(there is not enough of o's, lol)excited.I can't believe people are finally and really feeling my blog, lol.... I must acknowledge a few people who are doing their thing and showing me love. It gives me great gratitude in showing it back...A BIG thanks to my girls over at NYSD(http://www.nystylediary.com/) for showing love.

Visit their blog on the latest fashion and hotspots around the NY! They will be featured really soon.
(The ladies of NYSD)
A warm welcome and another thank you to my new soul sistahs Jette and Black Girls University for supporting another black girl on the come-up! All the fans of their myspace page can come here and find out any news or upcoming dates on their organization and upcoming events. Also shout out to Not Just Vintage for reaching out! (http://www.myspace.com/notjustvintage)
Stay tuned for an interview with vintage shop owners Maya and Lamonica coming to you pretty soon!
Ahhhh I could go on, every effort to acknowledge this blog is greatly appreciated. Last but not least my cousin SHAWN a.k.a. Goose(pictured with me below) who's been supporting me from the start. He's next MANG! Da Fam is gonna run the country, lmao! He is CrooklynChronicles Marketing Executive, as Im typing this I just dubbed him that, but he'll play the role just fine!!!!! Stay tuned for an interview with him and Farenheight Crew!

Thanks to everybody who's starting to follow my blog.
SPREAD THE WORD............
Let's make Crooklyn Chronicles your NEEDED SOURCE!!!!!!!!

Crooklyn Girl of the Month!!!!!!!!

2008-01-05T16:39:00.000-05:00

Every month I will be trying my best to spotlight a Girl and/or Guy of any age , face, borough, state or country. Yes your reading correctly, here at Crooklyn Chronicles we don't discriminate even if your not from Brooklyn, lol. The criteria: You just have to be wonderful and interesting! The Crooklyn chosen will embody, culture, spunk, innovation and pure grind because I believe there is something in some of us that is unique and shines through. As a budding journalist I'm always amazed by interesting personas and characteristics. Im sure you know who you are and if not I'm sure you know who they are, they are the chosen ones who have the "it" factor. Your girl Ms. Eclectic(ME:) will be dedicated in spotlighting these people monthly. Absolutely there will be NO wanna-be celebrities (IT'S ENOUGH OF THAT CRAP EVERY WHERE) or the 80's babies that emerged in the last two years (SCREAMS!!!). Only cool beings who choose to live and celebrate life on their own terms will be featured. I'm sure you may find some of them crazy, conceited, confident, optimistic, beautiful, handsome, weird (weird is the "new" cool), funky, sassy, motivational and simply individual. So look out to find out who's cool in your code(Im so cheesy, I swear). Enjoy and be inspired if you please..... So, our first girl of the month is a cool homey of mine, lol. She is an aspiring model, intelligent young lady but most of all very spunky and outspoken. Crooklyn Chronicles 1st GIRL of the month is.........

Name: Taneka
Age: 18 years
Sign: Aries
Birthplace: Port of spain, Trinidad
Home: Crooklyn!!!!!!

What line from a song describes a day in the life of Taneka?

Hmmm.Some boys kiss me, some boys hug me, I think they're O.K.,If they don't give me proper credit, I just walk away. (“Madonna” Material Girl.)

My Life is.... (aka my cell, wallet, house keys & lip gloss duhh) is always in my bag

Favorite artist is ....H to the O-V

Brooklyn Girls are....the shit.period.

Trini is....the best thing that you would, experience in your life. I suggest everyone gets with one, lol.

I wine pon it....when “I Will do anything just for you” [Snow, Buju, Beenie Man] I think.

Machel Montana is....actually it’s Machel Montano lol..He’s the most energic, freakiest performer ever, only because he shows his pierced nipples and his tongue when he performs, while whining OMG!

Crack is....Wack!!!!!!!!

My worth is....is of a value that has no price b/c even though it sounds cliché.THERE WOULD NEVER BE ANOTHER ME. [Unless my mom gets pregnant again & still that child would not be of my greatness lol. ]

Im fab because....I am never content with anything in life, always striving for the best.

My lip gloss is....so tasty! Yum yum!

Sometimes I just feel like....I always want to be spoiled, like being fed grapes, wine, being fanned with tropical leaves you know. Kinda like a greek goddess.

Im gonna go far because....I always find a way to make my dreams become a reality no matter how long it takes

I rep Crooklyn till I die because....it is now part of my system, part of me!

This Just in!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-05T10:23:00.000-05:00

Nineteen year old Brooklyn boutique owner Victoria Shelton is inviting you to her boutique's .............

Sounds great, nothing like shopping and sharing.........I haven't been in the store yet but I've heard so many great things......... Support young innovators! To find out more about Paperdoll and Victoria visit the boutique's official myspace page http://www.myspace.com/paperdoll_boutique and if your like me and your really serious about the industry and not just about taking flicks for your myspace page and making people believe your actually in the industry because of the way you dress and who you hang out with(Im sorry I had to get that off my chest, lol) then come out to her boutique's fashion show. I'll be there!

Flicks of Inspiration

2008-01-03T23:33:00.001-05:00

Severe Introduction!

2008-01-03T20:00:00.000-05:00

Designer Severe Erase

Like myself and many women across the globe bags are always a must have. Bags are the finishing touch to a great outfit. Its in our nature to obsess over our signature bags. Whether their vintage originals(I own 11!) or high fashion designer goods from Louis to Marc we simply go crazy for them. Hatian born bag designer Severe Erase is working hard to make sure that you ladies add her to the "it" list of must have bags!

The fashion industry today is full of carbon copied individuals who "want to be apart of the hype," the Queens resident and daughter of two tailors annoyingly confesses in a phone interview. It's an honest truth that everybody today wants to be a designer, stylist, boutique owner, gossip blogger...I could go on for days but the difference with Sevy is that she's extremely passionate about her craft. Passionate enough that she's dedicated in bringing back a strong sense of femeninity and regal appeal to a woman's look. With so many bag lines around Sevy finds her individual influence and style from pleasurable works, culture and of course her dear customers. This working girl and Brooklyn College student(my school mate, lol) who is greatly inspired by her mom and God designs to cater to a woman's need. Sevy designs all types of bags from hobos to clutches and leather totes. Her line consists of signature fabrics such as smooth leathers and beautifully colored suedes. Sevy's prices can range from 120$ to $530 and that's not bad at all for handmade bags that are constructed by herself. Since her launch in 2006 her bags has been featured in Uptown magazine, Channel 21 on "Fashion Stop" and was even donated to Brooklyn College for Aid's Awareness. She will become an international brand name and I gurantee you that her bags will never be outdated. Simply classic!

Sevy has a wonderful range of different bags that can either be purchased online at http://www.sevybags.com/ or the N boutique in Harlem(http://nharlemnewyork.com/). If there is ever a desire to work with Sevy on a personalized bag that she can help create for you,

Email her at severe@sevybags.com

Giving you a "severe" look that she is a designer that will be NEXT!

Sevy will become an international name and brand and she will remain fashion forward!!!!I can't wait until she makes me my own personalized bag, Luv Ya Sevy!

Photos courtesy of Ryan Patterson(1347-806-RYAN)

The Versatile "Quickster"

2007-10-27T12:06:00.000-04:00

You have to blast her music LOUD!!!!!!!!!!!! You have to let her unique voice and theatrical wit take you on a journey filled with "hopeful" stories. Stories that make you want to dance, sing-along or be around good food, good wine and just good people. "Quickster" Lisa E. Harris is without a doubt a woman that has been around and influenced by good music making. Every once in a blue moon there's that dull phase in music but personally Lisa is truly a breath of fresh air.
I want to say she reminds me of Ms.Simone, slapped with some Chaka and sassy like Erykah. But, I can't commit to it because even though the Houston native reminds me of these powerful women, she is truly laying down her own path. I know, I know what would a simple Brooklyn Blogger know about "Who's Next." I have never been so moved before, she sang in front of me and my friend Sergie and ever since then we have never forgot about her.
Poet/narrator/guitarist/dancer and film imager, believe it or not this unsigned talent takes the title of all of these.She writes all her songs and I'm telling you Lisa just pushes the bar.There's no fabrication or robotic creations of what an artist is suppose to be at all!!Houston based producers Sedari and Moon help trumphet the songstress voice on each track. Her flow is sultry and cruises through on each beat, nice and easy.

Lisa's music is for the unique listener.The type of listener that has a very eclectic and versatile ear.If you blast the sounds from Portishead to Marcia Griffith's then she should be on your playlist pretty soon.She's even recorded with M-1 of Dead Prez, Exit and Noble Society. You will connect with her, her music will uplift and move you.Im so excited about her future, Lisa your next GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lisa with M-1 of Dead Prez
To hear her music and find out more about her go to http://www.myspace.com/lisaeandthenightsofmalta

Prepare to be Kissed!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-16T19:37:00.000-04:00

I truly believe that every fashion designer tells us a story with their clothes. I believe that when we adorn our body's with their fine pieces we are more than a mass of muses; we become their characters. From Betsey's whimsical flair, to Heatherette's "eclectic" imagination and Marc's enchanted paradise of youthful bliss, I am convinced that it's more than just pieces of fabrics sewn together. I'm also convinced that Rain(featured in center) has added to this realm of stories and fairytales by kissing you with "all that she's got to give."

(pic of her in seventeen magazine)
When fashion designer Rain was a little girl the Crooklyn native never saw herself playing with dolls or having cutesy tea parties. Proclaimed as a strange child because she had a keen eye for art, the spunky twenty year couldn't help but belt out loudly, "strange children do great things." Under the great expertise of her grandmother who was a seamstress Rain focused her attention on sewing. At seven it was a hobby and then it propelled and didn't stop from there. When you look at her collection (cleverly titled after her) Kissed by Rain offers a colorful array of complex, punkish, flirty patterning and flair. Rain sews every piece by herself. The line has only been out a year and everybody's buzzing. The first introduction from Kissed by Rain was Myspace and then came the massive exposure from MTV's "My Super Sweet 16" star Teyanna. "The fact that people could tell the difference between a Kissed by Rain jacket and a piece from Heatherette was just crazy to me," Rain is truly greatful for the love shown by Teyanna and since then Miss Rain has become a local celeb herself. As we walk down the Soho strip you can tell by glances and side murmurs that budding fashionistas, wannabe punksters and 80's baby's of this new cliche fashion world recognize her from myspace. Rain's modest though, she's sees them but gracefully keeps it moving. When I interviewed Rain I was extremely impressed with her passion and her love for art, culture and creation. It's inspiring and she's willing to share the spotlight with other local indie designers too. In her interview she's more impressed by the workmanship and rise of Lemaur and Dauley, Dream Cloth, Babylon Cartel, Copastetic and a list of other local pioneers than elite fashion notables. Rain doesn't want to be pigenholed either, she's aware that her line briefly took part of the "80's phase" but would like people to know Kissed by Rain will evolve. The female line will definitely be more girly and she's going to introduce a guys line, all in 2008. When I asked her what does her line define she won me over with that smile of a true optimist and said "Kissed by Rain is a love story that shows my love for my sewing machine, fabric and of course my customers." Yeah right Rain we know that your line was inspired by your 1st love, lol. Okay we'll keep that on the tape!!! Support Rain, she's on the RISE!!!!!!!
(pic of Teyanna and Rain)
(Rain dressing model)

If anyone's interested in booking her for fashion shows or would like to request a press kit, hit her up at haveyoubeenkissedbyrain@gmail.com or check her out on myspace http://www.myspace.com/kissedbyrain. She has a blog too!!!!!! bekissed.blogspot.com.

Let Me Take You There..........

2007-05-30T15:04:00.000-04:00

(pic courtesy of flickr)

ATTENTION, ATTENTION:
My fellow Brooklynites, Modern Misfits, Rebels and Eclectic Innovators this is a blog to expose, reform and destruct societal norms. My name is Ms. Eclectic and I'm here to help you (yes you, lol) writers, rappers, singers, stylist, fashion designers, artist, chemist (ha,ha what kinda chemist huhhhhh?)clever entrepeneurs and wildminds escape and display your unconventional attributes. I keep meeting you creative beings as I walk down the beautiful, sometimes pissy, artistic and eclectic streets of Crooklyn, New York. So, I said to myself there needs to be a less suffocated space (myspace, extremely crowded, lol) to vent, to embellish and to enlighten the public with a new and funky fresh generation of innovators.They talk about this generation as if we don't or won't amount to anything, as if the future will just be a chaotic mess.They are not aware of our undeniable talent to change perspectives, choices and lives.It's my duty as a budding journalist to give the world that platform, I think this blog will be responsible for giving birth to today's creators. So sit back, blog-on and let me Ms. Eclectic PAVE THE WAYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!