The All-Stars (Men I Love)

R&B CASANOVA
 I love men I honestly think you can't live with them yet you can't live without them. Thursday was my birthday and as a Leo I love the finer things in life and I adore certain men. This post will feature the men I think are sexy, smart, talented, and so much more to get things I'm going to get this started with Usher. He burst on the music scene in 90's and hasn't stopped sense known for stage presence and charm even his ex-girlfriend Chilli admits "The secret to Usher's sex appeal is sexy is just in his DNA." He has been chasing girls since the age of 13. So Usher Here I Stand baring all my confessions to you for the rest of my life.

PRETTY BOY

Okay this next guy has had a rough year and is still seeking forgiveness and redemption. I will say this I don't condone what happened but I wasn't there he wasn't dating me. Chris Brown has been compared to the likes of his musical idols Micheal Jackson and Usher at first I wasn't a fan of CB. When he turned 18 I got on board because I knew started to become a man. With his recent amazing performance on this year's BET Awards Chris is well on his way back to love he has more and more people crawling back to love.

Okay this next guy has had one hell of a year. He broke onto the music scene back in '05 with songs like "Just Gotta Make It" and "Gotta Go". He dropped his second album Trey Day in '07 but '09 was the year of Trey Songz not only do the neighbours know his name the whole world know his name. I thought he was cute but he stepped his swagger up to sexy when he cut off the braids, went to the gym, let's just say he stepped his game up.

GHETTO LOVER MAN

I love this man and his soulful yet raspy voice he puts in the mind of the late Teddy Pendergrass. Jahiem is rare but much slept on talent but manages to have a strong fan base especially females such as my mom. Hailing from New Jersey he lived a rough life lost his father at the age of 2 and his mother passed away when he was 17 he spent some time in jail and has bounced back. Discovered by Kay Gee formerly of Naughty by Nature Jahiem has been releasing hits and successful albums Ghetto Love, Still Ghetto Love, Ghetto Classics, The Makings of a Man, and most recently Another Round.

FORTUNATE

Who do you know can take a 7 year hiatus come back at the BET Awards and drop a Number 1 album and win a Grammy? To answer your question Maxwell that is who he helped popularize the genre known as Neo Soul the only man on this earth next to Marvin Gaye that has the ability to make ladies swoon. Fellas if you play a Maxwell jam on best believe you will be making love all night long. "Lifetime", "This Woman's Work" showcases that irresistible falsetto, not to mention "Fortunate" and "Pretty Wings."

Alright other men that make the list as my favorite Male Singers include Ryan Leslie,Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke,Tyrese, Robin Thicke, Calvin Richardson, Noel Gourdin, MusiqSouldchild, and Raheem DeVaughn.

Mr. Ordinary

He calls himself  "Mr. Ordinary" but Steph Jones is far from quote on quote ordinary he is a model, independent singer, independent songwriter. It might sound typical but he is really attractive and talented and seems to have a laid back attitude about love and life. Born in Houston, Texas and raised in Missouri City and currently resides in the city of Angels aka Los Angeles, California his mother was DJ while his father was a drug dealer he is the younger brother of comedian De Ray Davis (Barbershop, Barbershop 2, and Wild N Out). Steph has been the face of Enyce clothing and is signed to Ford Models made cameos in videos for artist such as Bobby Valentino, Faith Evans, and Destiny's Child. He sang the hook on the 2007 hit song Celebrity Chick.

On the real this guy can blow I love his voice he can really sing he puts you in the mind of Maxwell and D Angelo sounds like big comparisons but it is the truth. Check out his mix tape Gravity (Lifetape) @ http://www.rebervnation.com/#/stephjonesmusic. The latest topic that has been on his mind is issues with bigotry within the African-American community I appreciate the fact that he wants to advocate to put a stop this hot issue that is so often swept under the rug or turned into a subject matter of laughter. Watch Steph's videos on his YouTube channel Mo City Alien starting off with this one here is the link http://www.youtube/ .com/watchI?v=mxECtIsg 5GQ. I will discuss this topic and gather opinions and other sources of insights stay tuned but I'm glad he mentioned it.

Second Time Is A Charm

Back in the Fall of 2008 BET and Jermaine Dupri introduced a new R&B Group named Brutha the members include five brothers Grady, Anthony, Jared, Jacob, and Papa aka Cheyenne they have the same father but different mothers. I was blown away by their talent on their show "Bruthas to Brutha" and watched it faithfully just when I thought real R&B male groups were gone they saved the day. Sure Diddy has Day 26 but they have only have like two or three songs I care for plus I think that arrangement is fake. Brutha has talent and good looks they just need better PR.  What makes them so unique is their bond is real whether they fight each other it is all real and fans can appreciate that in their music. Their sophomore album entitled Vacancy later this year in the meantime check out their mix tape Destination Short Say also watch their acapella movement on You Tube hear the magic for yourself. The two leading singles from the new album are "One Day on This Earth" penned by R.Kelly and "Can't Get Enough (Sexaholic).

The New Tea Party Part II

Now in the United States most people are in love with capitalism once again I will define capitalism to those who don't know what this word means. Capitalism is defined as an economic system based on a free market, open competition profit motive and private ownership of the means of production. Capitalism encourages private investment and business, compared to a government controlled economy. Investors in these private companies (shareholders) also own the firms known  as Capitalists. This is something that these people want to protect but sometimes what you want isn't always what you need, also what you want isn't all good for you. Let's keep in mind that most of the Tea-Party members are conservatives  that oppose the following runaway government spending, high taxation, and large deficits, obviously they had an issue with Obama's health care reform and the $787 billion stimulus package in February. They also oppose immigration as well. In order to make money you must spend money and too many people in this country didn't have health care. Are we supposed to let people die in the street?

Recently the NAACP (National Association  for the Advancement for Colored People) had made claims that this grass roots organization is racist and they like for them to repudiate their actions. Well I have seen images of protesters holding signs saying "Obama Nomics Monkey See, Monkey Spend," "Obama go back to Kenya"  "Lynch Obama" and use of the N-word and homosexual slurs. If walks like a duck and talks like a duck then it's duck as cliche' as that may sound it is true. Even Joe Biden is echoing Sarah Pailn's words and says they are not a racist organization but some of its members may be.

I have nothing against Joe Biden and everyone is indeed entitled to their own opinion but in my personal opinion I think that most of people  within this organization are racist.  Here is something to think about Like Stormfront.org is a website  founded by KKK leader Don Black, the Council celebrates its allegiance to as well as influence in Tea Party. They claim we are taking back our country what the hell is that supposed to mean and they also claim we are protecting the Constitution as well. I feel as though that this organization is filled with a bunch of frustrated Americans that need something to complain keep in nothing is perfect in our nation at the moment. Obama has done and will continue everything in his power to solve our problems he hasn't received all the support he needs from Republicans or Democrats.

As for immigration that opposition is non-sense simply because most of the immigrants in our country work for next to nothing or have the chance to attend colleges and universities for free. I have no issues with immigrants hell I'm an African-American my ancestors were forced to be in this country. Actually most of the people in the U.S. are immigrants if we want to go there its not only Hispanics, Indians, and Asians either. I don't respect or appreciate anything about this "grass roots organization" called The Tea Party President Obama will never really have the chance to receive credit for any of the good things he has done and I see a bunch of people that are envious that an African-American has obtained so much power even though he is educated and the right man for the job. This is not a structured party it is a movement that has gained much support.

The New Tea Party

This summer has been crazy as I have watched massive amounts of news coverage from topics and issues such as the Oil Spill, Jobs in the U.S., now another concern that has caught my attention is the Tea Party well "The New Tea Party." Most people are familiar with the Boston Tea Party of December 1773 if you paid attention in history class back in middle school or high school.  Honestly everyone knows about the Tea Party or should have an idea. It has now reemerged in the early part of the 21st century due to the fact that Rick Santelli, a CNBC commentator had an outburst @ Chicago's Mercantile Exchange. So following that incident the name gained momentum and clearly caught on sometime last summer in 2009 the Tea Party groups took root across the country. In April '09 Tea-Party members staged anti-tax protests across the country. So last summer they held rallies that often drew thousands of participants aimed on particular at the Obama health care plan, the emblem of all they prefer.  The first Tea Party Convention was held earlier this year in February in Nashville, TN. Eventually the movement had reached a tipping point when a demonstration at a mall in Washington September 12 according to the people in attendance it was the biggest conservative protest in modern American history.
                                                                                          

         
With that being said I am going to break some things down so you can understand why this is important and so you can be ready in November. Most of these protesters are calling President Obama a socialist and have constantly said they are against socialism in the U.S. For those who don't know this is what socialism means. Socialism is defined as any various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods. To simply put it ; socialism is a system of society or group living in which there is no private property.

Chasing The Pinktoes and Senoritas

A couple of months ago I wrote about Black women having the right to date outside their race since Black men do it all the time. Well two handsome and very talented athletes have their own reality shows on VH1 I'm talking about Terrell "T.O." Owens and Chad "Ocho Cinco" Johnson. Chad's show is called The Ultimate Catch and Terrell's show is called The T.O. Show co-starring close friends Mo and Kita. Chad is in the process of pursuing a woman he can get serious with and settle down but before the show aired it was brought to my attention that he didn't want too many black women on the show or almost none at all. Now he can date whoever he wants but I think it is slightly ironic considering the fact Chad has four children (as you can see in the picture )by Black women maybe things didn't work out too well I don't know. Chad says he has a preference and has dealt with everything as far women is concerned. I will agree with that statement it does make sense but like I said and will continue to say it still makes me wonder.




                                                                                                                           

Terrell has a lot going on last season he opened up about his battered relationship with his father and facing adversity from being released from the Dallas Cowboys and signing a one year deal with the Buffalo Bills.  Meanwhile Terrell has an on and off again girlfriend named Kerry who is also white and he has mentioned feeling lonely and wanting to settle down as well. I understand that they are professional athletes so with that being said they meet and come across exotic women all the time. Honestly no self-respecting woman should go on a dating show to find her potential spouse chances are she is just looking for her 15 minutes of fame. For the record I love sports so this is why I wanted to mention these two I respect their athletic skills. I just wonder if I ever had the chance to meet these guys in person I would ask these questions. Seriously I just want to to know wouldn't catch an attitude or anything it just makes me wonder. Do you have something against Black women? Why do you have children with Black women? What if someone perhaps another Black man doesn't think your daughter is appealing? How do you feel about interracial dating in general? In one of my previous blog post entitled "Jungle Fever, Oh Yes We Have It" I advised black women to try interracial dating  to see if it works for that individual. I have seen Black men complain about Black women dating or marrying a White or Hispanic man yet I find that hypocritical because they enjoy other flavors as well so as Chad Johnson would say child please.

In His Own World Cont'd

Q: What's going on with the album?
A: The album is still under construction I will be releasing a demo CD of the album which will consist of four songs this will be exclusive because no one will know about the four songs until they buy the demo CD. At the moment I am working on my next single which is named after my official nickname "Mr. Sex Better" once that is complete the demo CD which will be on sale and can be bought at Juss Russ shows and events late July.
Q: How many more shows do you have coming up?

A: I actually have 3 shows coming up next weekend! I will be opening up for Lil Will's concert on the 18th which is Sunday @ Club Lake shore (formerly known as Club Oasis) here in Louisville, Ky. Also performing at the "Heir to the Throne" Concert with Royalty Ent. shout out to the Family and I will be performing @ Oasis again that Saturday as well July 17th upcoming events posted @ www.rebervnation.com/jussruss
Q: How are you feeling right now?
A: I'm feeling really good I did a show@ Robbins Roost Event this past Saturday and it was crazy because the young fan base showed me a lot of love, someone was even pulling my hair. I loved the energy! Also it was nice to know that the amount of listeners is increasing since my debut this past June.

In His Own World

About a month ago I introduced to you to my boy Russell "Juss Russ" Wilson he is a jack of all trades rapper, songwriter, producer, and former model. In my mind he is another rose that grew from the concrete he was raised by a single mother went off to college and is doing everything in his power to make his dreams come true. So I had the chance to chat with Russ again a lot has happened since our last interview he has recently  been rapping to a new tune by showcasing his sensitive side in his music.
Q: What made you come up with songs like "Special Girl" and "Make Ya Boy Say"?
A: Each song that you will hear from Juss Russ is completely original being that it has all been written by me. My music is like my unofficial diary so therefore what I feel is what I write and at this time I am still single but I was inspired to write  "Special Girl" and "Make Ya Boy Say" because they are an exact replica of what I'm looking for in a relationship and how I would treat the girl I'm in a relationship with. Yes I am "Mr. Sex Better" but "Mr.Sex Better" also has a soft side.
Q: Are you signed yet?
A: Currently I am unsigned but I have been hearing a buzz!

Swept Under the Rug Cont'd

As I mentioned in my previous post about domestic violence I want to give you some insight as in examples, signs to be aware of, facts, and effects on children and teens. These are some signs to look out for if someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse here are the following injuries, excuses, fear of conflict low self-esteem, personality changes, missing work or school, self-blame etc. One thing to notice in children is aggressive or care-taking in behavior in children so this means children who live in violent homes may take that with them to school or the playground. In fact most children that are school bully become the bully because they witness acts of violence at home. As for the effect in teens they feel frustrated, ready to run away from home, loss in appetite, all kinds of stress. Most young boys that see their mothers being hit by their fathers grow up to the same to their significant other or spouse. How many more women must lose their lives? How many kids and teens must suffer? These are things to think about.

"Swept Under the Rug"

What is like to live in a world  full of violence? Can you imagine coming home to chaos? For some people the answers to these questions are apart of their reality. I'm talking about domestic violence it has been around long before Ike hit Tina, long before we saw another side of Chris and Rhianna. It happens to normal people it has an effect on the victims and their family.

What is domestic violence? Domestic violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Partners may be married or not married; heterosexual, gay, lesbian, living together or dating. I just feel as though there are so many problems going on this world and this issue is ignored more knowledge and actions need to be taken to solve this issue. In my next post you will learn examples of the abuse, facts,and how it effects children and teens.

"There Goes My Baby"

Those abs, that smile, the voice, his amazing dancing skills, he has been called "Mr. Entertainment" but you may know him as Usher the guy I once called my first boyfriend. Born Usher Terry Raymond IV  October 14, 1978 in Dallas,TX spent most of his childhood in Chattanooga,TN and later relocated to Atlanta, GA for his musical aspirations. Usher grew up admiring the likes of Marvin Gaye, Micheal Jackson,  Sam Cooke, ( a man he resembles )and Bobby Brown he began singing in church. He had the chance to appear on Star Search and won impressed LA Reid who signed to him a record deal with La Face Records and P. Diddy was his mentor and the producer of his first album entitled "Usher" (1994) spawned three hits Think of You, The Many Ways, and Can You Get With It. By 1997 he released his sophomore album My Way with the hits Nice and Slow, You Make Me Wanna, and My Way.

His success continued in 2001 with 8701 and by 2004 he became a mega superstar with his album Confessions was loosely based on his previous relationships including the high profile union with Chilli from TLC. A few years later Usher married his stylist Tameka Foster and that union produced two sons Usher Raymond V and Naviyd Eli Raymond.

 Many people including fans and critics were not happy about the relationship it seems as though the world turned its back on Usher for wanting grow as a man as well as an artist. Here I Stand did reach number 1 on the charts but did not have high numbers like Confessions. Honestly that was a great album it was just wasn't promoted correctly and I also think many women were jealous that he had finally settled down. He was tired of livng the typical rock star bachelor lifestyle you can't fault a man for wanting to change his ways. His latest release Raymond V Raymond is doing well and he is now divorced. Usher is a great singer all around performer and can't be replaced he has paid his dues and earned his title.