Erykah Badu Talks Chasing Dreams

Inspiration from World-Renowned Choreographer, Fatima Robinson

StyleLikeU Closet Interview With Fatima Robinson from StyleLikeU on Vimeo.

The Life Lessons I've Learned from Heavy D

Hearing that one of the most loved. adored and respected legends of Hip Hop, The Overweight Lova Heavy D, has passed away saddened and shocked me. He's only 9 years my senior. And we just recently saw him moving with the same agility and swiftness as the days long gone on the BET Awards. Listening to a medley of his classic joints on the radio made me reflect on what lesson I have personally learned from Heavy D that I may not have thought of until this tragic turn of events.

• Heavy D taught me to turn my "so-called" flaws into attributes.

Until Heavy D got on the scene, being "heavy" or overweight was something to scorn and mock. But he made it clear that despite his big frame, he was smarter/swifter/smoother than the rest. I remember even hearing the Notorious BIG state that his larger-than-life persona was inspired by the self-confidence instilled by the example of Heavy. In my own life, working in Corp America as a designer, being a mother was a hinderance. It's important to appear as unattached as possible because you are expected to remain in the office burning the midnight oil often and be abe to be relocated or at the very least, travel to the factories in China at the drop of a dime. I even lost a job because my child, when she was 3, came down with a severe case of the flu and I was out of work for 2 days.
But as a self-employed designer, juggling business and motherhood gracefully is admired and respected, and I am proud to share motherhood adventures publicly. People know I'm not some flight-by-night business, I'm a mommy. I am sincere and earnest. My so-called "flaw" has become a huge attribute.

•  Heavy D taught me that one man has the power to change many.

Heavy did this song called "Don't Curse" to be an example that pure, good natured music could be cool and not in the least bit corny. He took the best MC's of the era, even Kool G Rap who was known for his raunchiness, and put them all on a single without the ability to use profanity. He could have been laughed at or called wack by these hardcore rappers but he took that chance. It was a BOLD move and not only did he get these MC's to see the importance of setting a good example for the children and showing solidarity, the song was widely accepted and became a huge hit. PS: On the same song, Heavy D graciously introduced the world to an unknown producer, his cousin Pete Rock, who went on the become a legend in his own right. #Support

• Heavy D taught me to diversify and remain positive to remain relevant.

Rapper, dancer, reggae artist, producer and actor, this man did it all well, stretching and expanding. His career led him to make hits with both Micheal and Janet Jackson! He has a warm, inviting energy that was apparent in all that he did. He never "fell off", he simply changed lanes and kept moving forward. This a a lesson that I cherish the most. Heavy D, you will be missed. I wish you a "Peaceful Journey."

"I love my life only because I always have." ~Heavy D via Twitter (less then 24 hrs before his sudden death)

RIP Heavy D.

FADE: The Family Documentary

This controversial project was created by my childhood friend, Shaun. He is incredibly gifted. Get behind this project by donating funds to produce the documentary and sharing this with others.
#ChangeTheWorld

From Shaun Bless:

 Hello, I want to start by saying thank you for taking the time to read my campaign. I’m an established creator, artist, editor, songwriter and also a young music producer (CEO of Souldiggaz Entertainment). I have worked with artist such as: Madonna, Beyonce, Missy Elliott, Sean "Diddy" Combs and many more.

 My next phase in my career is film-making and story telling. Originally I wanted to do a comedy feature film but I came across a article that hit close to home. This article was about greed, deception, and the systematical way of profiting off of young parents. I decided to do a documentary on child support. After looking at some the stories I’ve pieced together below in the video, you’ll get a better understanding of this injustice. In no kind of way is this to take away due justice from parents who do indeed need help but there are many parents who deal with this injustice. It has no color, status or religion barrier.

 This documentary is being put together to show how power is misused by judges, state lawmakers, and scorned parents. A system created to help children but most often is used as a profit pool. This documentary will touch upon how money is paid for support but most times the kids receive benefits days or weeks later or in some cases not at all. This documentary will also show stories of American soldiers who come home after fighting for this country all to be thrown in jail because they can’t find a job.

 I know this is a touchy subject.  As I’m creating this documentary, I am willing to take notes from contributors and each individual will be credited for their input. I feel this story needs to be told.  Networks should take this message worldwide.  I need as much support to help promote, fund and kick start this documentary.

 The one question some may or may not ask is "How come your associates Missy Elliott, Beyonce, Diddy and more in the music industry can't help you with this?"  My answer is, "In my world we are all family and you have to start something on your own first to get the ball rolling in order to get the attention of your family to jump on board.  If we build it they will come. Sometimes,you have to get the ball rolling on your own to show and prove the passion you carry in your heart for a certain cause and/or project. I'm positive this project will gain a lot of interest once the ball starts to roll." 

Throughout history we have taken stands against so many unjustly laws and practices, which is why this country is such a great place to live because we fought for change.  Let's make a change now.  Let's help few or more children and parents stay together in peaceful relationships, without being separated by this system for profit. It's about family being able to peacefully and cordially come to a medium to take care of our kids.  Kids are our future.  My goal is to change some of the rules set by family court from this documentary, make sure kids are put first and parents aren’t being mistreated by system or misusing the system because of anger.

 I thank you in advance for your support. 

Donate here: http://www.indiegogo.com/Fade-The-Family

Eco-Fashion in the Park Fashion Show

 

My sista in eco-design, Bridgette Artise, and her super dope line Born Again Vintage was featured in a fabulous fashion show called Eco-Fashion in the Park. It was held this past Saturday in

High Bridge Park located on Amsterdam Ave.

If you missed it, check out what you missed below and learn more about B. Artise at http://www.b-artise.com/