Love from Cuba

Source: Mizotte

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thenublack ♥s Shakara

Shakara in the Yoruba language of Nigeria means to flaunt. To us Shakara is a celebration of the amazing musical creativity of the African continent. We invite you to share in the unique experience.

Shakara is an online platform that supports the increasing presence of African music and artists globally through a range of services including digital promotion, retail and marketing. With over 50 countries on the continent and dozens of musical styles in any one region, African music keeps growing in popularity, yet is still difficult to discover and purchase. In addition, many African artists create music that doesn’t fall under the title of world or African music in the traditional sense.

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T-Shirt Tuesdays: Uncultured Persons

About Uncultured Persons

The fundamental mission of uncultured persons is to create quality t-shirts and products with simple and clean graphics that are geared to be unique and exclusive in style.

Our goal is to graphically and conceptually embody traditional and contemporary images inspired by the worlds most forgotten continent…Africa. A continent where the images and scenes one experiences cause ones emotions to run the gambit, from complete disbelief to sheer joy and adulation.

All tees are available from Uncultured Persons

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iamthenublack: Aminchi of Uncultured Persons

introduce yourself

I am  Aminchi but my online avatar is the Uncultured One.  I see you. (corny Avatar reference). I am a teacher (Algebra, Geometry, and Calculus), wannabe blogger, wannabe entrepreneur, just a general wannabe  who is trying everything in his power to attain the American dream.  I am a hybrid, a Nigerian-American who at times is caught between two diametrically opposed cultures.  My heart though is in Africa and I started Uncultured Persons to radiate that love for the fatherland.
fav song lyric

What you know about hard,

Can’t be the weak link in the squad

gotta look way deep in your heart

anything in the way gotta go straight through , take charge

Can’t hide from your flaws when you ride for the cause or a nigga will pull your card

Dead Prez, Walk Like a Warrior

who and what inspires you?

I am inspired by a wide range of things, from the market women in Nigeria who despite circumstances are making it happen, to those passionate about their art, their music or their desires.  I am drawn to people who have been brave enough to make their situations better than it previously was.
who are your icons, past and present?

I am not really into the “icon” tag. I admire so many people who despite their faults and humanity have risen to make a change in/inspire others lives. Some famous, many will never be known.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Aminchi:

If everybody loves and praises what you are doing, you have compromised yourself.  Lead a life that will honor  God and the gifts He has given you.

–Musa Asake (my pa)
Check me out

Uncultured Persons

Blog

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‘Fro no mo’: Ode to my afro

I’m about 6 months into my loc journey and every time I see mean ass fro I feel a little queasy, lol. I often find myself on lecoil seeking out some hairspiration for when I start dutty wining in clubs shaking my heads like I’m listening to a Wacka Flocka flame song…..SIKE (the dutty wining and Wacka Flocka part). Anyways I thought I’d post some pics of the hairstyle I no longer have that has served me well for many years….goodbye Afro…hello locs!

Source: Kmeron

Source: Rena Kosnett

Source: Village Slum

Source: The Smoking Section

Source: Bitch Magazine

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Are you ready?

“It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where we are today, but we have just begun. Today we begin in earnest the work of making sure that the world we leave our children is just a little bit better than the one we inhabit today.”

Barack Obama

source: wa-j

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Nike SB vs Ice Cube

More reasons to love the creativity of the folks at Nike…

thanks to thepurveyorofcool for this

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Invictus

“From director Clint Eastwood, ‘Invictus’ tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) joined forces with the captain of South Africas rugby team, Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon), to help unite their country. Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africas underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.”

The poem ‘INVICTUS’ by William Ernest Henley, from which Nelson Mandela drew strength while in prison.

- BehindtheLens414

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The Hayemaker

“That’s what makes boxing great … Who would have thought Muhammad Ali would have beaten George Foreman? Foreman was supposed to be too strong, he had knocked out (Joe) Frazier. He was supposed to be going to slaughter Ali.”

-David Haye

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Kevin Hart vs. eBay

Wow…Kevin Hart is good. eBay has harnessed one of the funniest comedians out there to advertise their brand. I like how they incorporated his family routine in the ads.

“She made me a turkey sandwich the other day in THIRTY-TWO seconds!” lol

Check out the others at Kiss My Black Ads

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South African Art Now

Described by international curator Okwui Enwezor as “one of the most dynamic and vigorous spaces of artistic practice,” contemporary South African art is an exciting, emerging scene that is attracting the attention of international museums, curators, and collectors today.

South African Art Now is the first book to document the role of art and artists in the evolution of today’s post-apartheid South Africa. Artist and author Sue Williamson explores five decades of South African art, from early political art in the 1960s (during the apartheid years) to the thought-provoking works that grabbed the international art market’s interest a generation later.

- HarperCollins

thanks to Livefromthecoast

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Brought to you by Sesame Street…and Uprock

This week Uprocks Sunday chill out session is for the kid in all of us…
We are celebrating 40 years of SESAME STREET!!! Yes that show that almost all of us got up to watch on Saturday mornings throughout our formative years is 40 years old this week.

Of course we will be playing all that good stuff we always play.. Soul, Funk, Boogie, Jazz and more…. but this Sunday it will be interspersed with music amd memories from Sesame Street and other Kids shows of the same era that will be sure to spark some great memories.

So come down, chill out and listen to all the good stuff Uprock play but pay attention to the Sesame Street breaks!!

12345….6789 10…..11…12

PS.. There will be visual Sesame Street memories aswell! FREE ENTRY ALL NIGHT…

The Details:

Sunday, 15 November 2009

Time 6pm-12am

Venue: The Westbury, 34 Kilburn High Road (nearest station: Kilburn High Rd)

Info@uprock.co.uk for more info

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Kind of Blue

“It’s like the Bible – you just have one in your house.”

Q-Tip speaking about ‘Kind of Blue’

I’m actually a little embarrassed that I didn’t know about this before (the anniversary, not Miles Davis)…my manager just shook his head at me like ‘oh dear youngblood’ – which is why although this site is meant to inspire, it’s also a chance for me to educate myself. I’m determined to pull together some kind of ‘musical eldership’ to school me on sounds unheard, because to be honest I listened to Jazz music way before I even started getting into hip hop! Anyways, I hope you enjoy this.

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Blitz The Ambassador

Received an e-mail from the lovely Amelia at Put Me On It a couple of days ago about Blitz The Ambassador, and as is my nature to dig DEEP into finding background information about music I discovered a couple of things…1. His music is DOPE (that’s pretty much a given though right?) 2. He wrote the score for PBS’s ‘Bronx Princess’ which I featured on here a couple of months back (Blitz is originially from Ghana but now resides in BK).

——————————————————–

“Energy. Excitement. Passion. These are more than the empty promises of a Vitamin Water ad, they’re the ingredients to one of the most anticipated hip-hop albums of 2009. From the bumping “Prelude” to the gospel-infused “Something to Believe,” Blitz the Ambassador’s third release, Stereotype, delivers the strongest 1-2 (add in “Breathe” and make it 1-2-3) punch on a hip-hop album in a long time.”

- Okayplayer.com

Check out:

The Embassy

Twitter

YouTube

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Undercrwn x DJ Jazzy Jeff

I know there have been a plethora of MJ inspired musical offerings since his passing, some which have been a LITTLE bit hasty (not mentioning any names *cough*), but the folks at Undercrwn have made me smile. Accompanied by some cool artwork – this 49 track mixtape by Jazzy Jeff pays tribute to the bejewelled gloved one himself – MJ.

Download mixtape

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Prom Night in Mississippi

You know when you watch something and it doesn’t click until a good few hours later? I’m watching the trailer for this movie thinking…okay Morgan Freeman looks kinda old in this…they have modern looking cell phones in this…THIS WAS RECENT! I guess I’m naive, but this school’s whole situation just bothered me. It’s nice to see that celebrities like Morgan Freeman haven’t become too Hollywood to be able to give back to their community.

A full synopsis of the documentary and also info on HBO’s visit to the school one year later can be found on the HBO website

———————————————————————————————-

In 1997, Academy Award winning actor, Morgan Freeman, who lives in the Charleston, Mississippi community, offered to fund the first-ever integrated Senior Prom in the history of Charleston’s one high school. His offer was ignored. In 2008, Morgan offered again… the East Tallahatchie County School Board accepted. In this town of 2,300 people, its high school of 415 (70%/30%) black and white students has, to this day, always had separate proms: one black and one white. Prom Night in Mississippi follows the Charleston High senior class of 2008 preparing and attending their historic, first ever integrated prom, in the context of strong emotions, traditions, and conflict inherent in race relations in the community, in the Deep South, and by national association throughout the United States.

via Endangered Peace

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Small but still stylin’

I can’t tell you how happy I am about this post. I was in the beautiful BK earlier this year and I stumbled across a style blog featuring the most dapper little boy I’ve seen in my life…and forgot to bookmark it. I spent a damn good week trying to Google random words to find it – with no avail. During my daily search for cool stuff a few days ago…I FOUND THE BLOG!!!

Meet Jeremiah, he’s FIVE years old…and although he has to wear a uniform to school, he insists on separating himself from the rest of his classmates…the red socks are KILLING IT!

via Limite

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Tall Enough

Barry Jenkin’s debut film ‘Medicine for Melancholy’ was on at the BFI last year and I missed my chance to see it. This is possibly one of the most beautiful film shorts I’ve seen in a while. The short centres around an interracial couple that meet in Bloomingdales in China (the short was part of a series of films for Bloomingdale’s film festival) – the music and cinematography make being in love look so simple

Enjoy x

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Moutain Lu(pe)

Mountain Dew…Mountain Lu(pe)…geddit? *cough* So Lupe and Kenna amongst other celebrities, activists and photographers alike will be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in January 2010 in aid of Summit on the Summit – a fight against the global clean water crisis.

Not sure why I find Lupe climbing a mountain so strange, but I like it! (call me a bandwaggon jumper if you will, if you’re not Bono then I’m down – seems a little bit more legit…no offence Bono). It’s all for a good cause and the ‘training videos’ had me laughing…I wonder if he’ll be writing some songs for his next album via the mountain top?

Each member is posting pictures and videos so it’s definately something worth checking out (and donating to…where in the world is water NOT important?)

Summit on the Summit website

via SoulCulture

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HP x SOTS

Remember those super cool HP ads with the celebs and their favourite things? Well HP have teamed up with Kenna, Lupe and Alexandra Cousteau to bring you their first “hands” commercial with 3 people in aid of Summit on the Summit (more info on that in a few).

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East Africa’s Kimono?

For women in Tanzania’s humid Dar es Salaam port city, the “kanga” is must-have material, functioning as an everyday wraparound dress, bath towel, shawl and, when ragged, dish cloth and mop too.

But for Mustafa Hassanali, a popular local designer who organised this year’s second annual Swahili Fashion Week, the traditional rectangular kanga cloth from east Africa’s Indian Ocean coast means much more

“Just as India has saris and Japan has the kimono, we have the kanga,” he said after the show, as Tanzania’s glitterati exchanged air kisses under the moon by an outdoor catwalk….read the rest here

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Mama I’m famous!

This is probably the one and only time you’ll be seeing my  face on this blog (unless I run out of people to interview and end up in the Q&A section) but I thought I should share. I got photographed by the gorgeous Jamala Johns who runs Lecoil possibly one of the dopest natural hairspiration blogs EVER!

I know she’s a very busy lady (she was only in London for a few days before flying off to various European destinations) but I’m hoping to feauture her on thenublack. So thanks Jamala (and to my mother for the jacket, lol)

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Goodbye HEAVy :(

This is not cool AT ALL, but I’m sure both Casey and Nikki will go on to do some great projects (Casey was part of Q-Tip’s magnificent band when he performed at The Roundhouse earlier this year). I first heard the duo’s music a couple of years ago via a DJ friend of mine and I’ve loved their style and sound ever since (how can you not love a band with a KEYTAR as one of their instruments?!) I know I’ve missed an opportunity to see them earlier this year and I’m now kicking myself…anyways Nikki has included links to their back catalogue so reminisce and enjoy x

HEAVy JAzzmonEY$

HEAVy First Sessions

HEAVy Odds & Ends

via PMOI & Ampersand Jones

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Mellow Yellow and in Love

I know how for some people movies and songs make them want to be in love and date someone but these photos below…omg (Black lovin hasn’t been in such effect since the Obamas, lol) I had to show my mother so she could take some mental notes. Beautiful couple, simple and fresh colour, and DOPE photography – My desire to have a dope wedding has just dramatically increased!

via getogetha

photos by Angelica Glass

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The London African Film Festival

The London African Film Festival

A unique and entertaining insight into the world of African Cinema.

The London African Film Festival, from November 26-December 3, is pleased to announce its 2009 programme. This year’s line up introduces an exciting selection of 11 UK premieres , features films and documentaries from across the continent screening at art locations across London for an 8 day event.

The Barbican, Ciné Lumière, The Lexi, Rich Mix and the University of Westminster will showcase films that will enlighten, thrill and excite alongside a one-day conference that focuses on Producing and Distributing African Cinema in the Digital Era

- LAFF Press Release

more info: London African Film Festival

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Raphael Saadiq

What’s not to love about Raphael Saadiq? Deep down I’m hoping that he can reform Lucy Pearl because even though they only had one album – it was HOT! The video for Get Involved was completely different from any video I’d seen out at the time in terms of creativity and ‘So In Love’ has kept the feel of Saadiq’s vintage look and sound (I love the visual element of the beat being made by his foot while he’s singing…little things, lol).

Enjoy x

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Too Fly

Yay…it’s finally here! Andrea of Fly has launched her line of hair themed illustrations – they are HOT! I had the honour of being featured on the site and it’s definately one of my ‘go-to’s for inspiration…more arty things for my Christmas wishlist!

————————————————-

In 2008, I, Andrea Pippins created I Love My Hair for a thesis project in grad school. Originally a campaign to encourage African-American women to love and embrace their naturally coily hair, I Love My Hair evolved into a brand that celebrates those special coils through art and design.

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K-Os: I Wish I Knew Natalie Portman

Is it me or were you waiting for Mischa Barton/Benjamin McKenzie to make a cameo?! I’m LOVING this offering from K-Os and Saukrates. Now I was thinking this was directed by Chris Robinson as it has a very Bonnie & Clyde ’03 feel to it (old car and a petrol station in an old town is really about it, lol) but it’s actually directed by Little X…glad to see he’s back with some FIYAH, lol.

via GoGoGadgetMrV

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The Afro Chair

This is like those old Ricki Lake shows when they had weave styling competitions…but BETTER!

Designed by Korean designer Yangsoo Pyo, The “Afro” is a chair that employed the image of the hair style “Afro Permanent hair.” Springs are used to visualize the tangled and puffed up texture of the afro hair. The springs used to create the “Afro chair” are the two-ring binder springs used to bind together a notebook. The two-ring binders do not get tangled but rather wraps around each other.

Therefore, there is no danger of destroying women’s stockings or knitwear. In fact the chair is very comfy. The manufacturing process of this chair begins with a simple iron frame. Then, the springs are used instead of the normal sponge and leather cover.

via Contemporist

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Free Swim

Now I know there’s a cultural joke that ‘Black people can’t/don’t swim’ – Chris Rock made a joke about Black people dominating the sports world and once they got heated Ice Rinks we’d dominate ice hockey too. It was also interesting when he interviewed some of the actresses in the movie ‘Good Hair’ that Nia Long in particular mentioned that she has a pool (but doesn’t swim in it).

Free Swim is a documentary film about the paradox of coastal people not knowing how to swim. Taking place on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas we follow a group of kids as they overcome their fears, gain confidence and reconnect with their environment by learning to swim in open waters. With fresh memories of a friend drowning and the conflicts of growing tourism, for these kids it’s not just about floating, but gaining new skills for their future.

(If you get the chance – Google Cullen Jones)

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Black Though & Mos Def: After the BET Cypher

Yeah…those Mos Def tickets are being booked SHARPISH! Again…well done BET! Check out the main performance featuring Eminem and DJ Premier

via FroLab

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EDO. G & Masta Ace: Little Young

Now I really like this video, tight visuals and content but I have one question…Did they REALLY have to put Little Brother in there? Maybe it was just because of the title.

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Current: EMBEDDED

Check out Current’s music series EMBEDDED featuring two of my favourite rappers Mos Def and Common.

via Current

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The Guys

“Deal with yourself as a individual, worthy of respect and make everyone else deal with you the same way.”

Nikki Giovanni

source: vv of setting sail

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Smile

“If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love. Don’t be surly at home, then go out in the street and start grinning ‘Good morning’ at total strangers.”

Maya Angelou

source: thetrapezium

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Tough Love

“The things we truly love stay with us always, locked in our hearts as long as life remains.”

Josephine Baker

source: souljah

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Prince first TV debut

via This Charming Blog

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Protect Your Neck

Is this geeky or VERY cool?! I have a bunch of KISS 100 recordings somewhere in my room…I’m about to go find them!

the sonic fabric neckties are a limited-edition project made in collaboration with my designer friend julio cesar. sonic fabric is woven from 50% recorded audio cassette tape and 50% colored thread the fabric is actually audible if you run a tape head over it!

the idea behind the tie is that the wearer becomes a beacon for other-dimensional, intangible, subtle forces of good…much in the manner of a superhero. only this part of the superhero garb can be worn on the outside in the most conservative environment without detection! looks equally great with dress shirt or t-shirt. this tie is the thinner version – 2″ wide at the widest point. i also make a slightly wider version for more mature audiences.

the sound collages recorded onto the tape for this batch of ties comes from my cdbetween stations, and is based on looped and layered samples collected on and under the streets of nyc.

the ties come in three colors: black (woven with black thread and black tape), dark brown (brown tape, black thread), and light gray (gray thread, black tape). this one isBROWN. each comes packaged with a descriptive label.

- Alyce Sontoro (co-creator)

check out the Sonic Fabric website

via Supermarket

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The Greatest

Now with a title like that I could be talking about a number of people – I’ll just cut to the chase and show you the goods…No Mas have come EXTREMELY correct with a range of Muhammad Ali inspired apparel (I have my eyes on that boxing robe).

Enjoy x

Check out the No-Mas website

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iamthenublack: Mazuba Kapambwe

introduce yourself

Hello, I am a Zambian born in Washington DC and raised in Germany, Zambia, Ethiopia and now living in NYC.I am a writer / entertainment journalist /blogger who gets to attend African fashion shows, concerts, parties, movie screenings etc and interview African celebrities like Korto Momolu (from project Runway season 5), and others. I am also an aspiring screenwriter and I’m hoping to start a magazine that will be called “Inspired by Africa”.

fav lyric from a song

I wave hi to the haters, glad that I finally done made it, take a look and you can tell, that I’m destined for greatness…

- All the Above by Maino ft T-pain

who and what inspires you?

My beautiful continent of Africa inspires me because Africa is the future. You can see it in fashion with Ankara material (African cloth) being used by international designers, in film (the Nollywood) industry is the third highest producer of films etc and by the new generation of Afripolitans in the Diaspora who are going after their dreams.

icons past & present

I really look up to people who are leading successful careers in the field of entertainment reporting like Alexa Chung, Lily Collins and my role model/mentor Nonhle Thema who is a south African entertainment reporter and the international face of Dark and Lovely. In terms of past icons, I would say Kwame Nkrumah the first president of Ghana. He’s almost like a prophet because some of his dreams for Africa are now coming true.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Mazuba Kapambwe

Whatever you do, do it so that no man living, no man dead, or no man yet born can do it any better

- Dr Benjamin E Mays

Check me out

African Pride

Jamati

Jamati Entourage Diaries

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BLACKSummer’s Night: Spec Boogie

Maxwell + Melo-X + Spec Boogie = hot sh*t! If you don’t know about Spec Boogie…you will learn ( I don’t normally force my opinions or musical tastes on people but this is an emcee that you need to associate  your ears with).

————————————————————-

While putting the finishing touches on Summer Movie Season I downloaded Melo-X’s Maxwell remix project but only listened to the first two songs before I went out into the night to see Melo & Diz Gibran at SOB’s. While there I told Melo I was planning on rocking to Higher and then went and had a night that didn’t land me home until late the next afternoon. When I sat to write to Higher I listened to the whole tape and decided to rhyme on the entire project bout that one night while I was still experiencing it.

- Spec Boogie

download it here

Check out:

Spec Boogie

Melo-X

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thenublack ♥s Swagger 360

Yay, more visual style candy for me to feast my eyes on – Karl Edwin-Guerre’s Swagger 360 makes me feel like I need to crank up my swag levels a few notches!

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The Cool Kids: Knocked Down

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thenublack ♥s Poema Jones

The cooking/jewellry designing/Rick James loving blogging belle that is Poema Jones. Amsterdam is being represented to the FULLEST!

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thenublack ♥s Shadow & Act

This is one of those ‘where have you been all of my life’ blogs. Shadow & Act is like the ASOS of media blogs covering matter of the African Diaspora, and only the Lord knows how much I love ASOS, lol.

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thenublack ♥s F**kyeablackmen

Excuse the profanity but I believe this visual collection of Black men is most aptly titled! From modern day hotties to old school icons F**kyeahblackmen is the ish!

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thenublack ♥s ilovebeingblack

ilovebeingblack, is another visual collection that I will be adding to my daily ‘blog stalking’ routine.

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Tatyana Ali: Buppies

I’m not a big fan of BET but this looks interesting, plus Tatyana Ali seems to have her hands all over this project so I’m routing for her.

—————————————–

After losing her father and being dumped by her fiancè, Quinci, the socialite daughter of a Hollywood celebrity, realizes that her friends are her only real family left. This provocative and ironic series chronicles the relationship dramas of Quinci’s dysfunctional but virtually inseparable friends as they navigate the perks and pratfalls faced by LA’s young black power elite.

This groundbreaking series is the first original webseries to present an all African-American cast, and features accomplished actress Tatyana Ali (”The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “Young and the Restless”) in the starring role.

Buppies x BET page

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Lupe x Enemy of the State: A Love Story

Forget turkeys, candied yams, pumpkin pie and other reasons to stuff your face with food and miss the whole point of Thanksgiving…LUPE HAS A MIXTAPE OUT!!! Put this on your ipod while you’re waiting in line to get a ridiculous discount on a plasma TV during the Black Friday sales!

Enjoy x (and Happy Toikey Day)

via SoulCulture

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PUMA x Kehinde Wiley

Now THIS is what I call a collaboration. PUMA has collaborated with artist Kehinde Wiley to create a limited edition run of football boots (Only 302 pairs are being made – 302 reflects the 302,00000 km2 area of the African continent).

The boots are going on pre-order for release on the 11th of December so if you have £140…I’d suggest you get yourself some affordable art!

————————————————-

In his second collaboration with PUMA, Kehinde Wiley, with his signature graphic prints inspired by the bold colors of Africa, took the v.1.10 football boot and made it into something extraordinary. Together, the product statements help set the stage for the ongoing PUMA Global Football campaign that is leading up to and through the FIFA World Cup™ 2010 in South Africa.

Kehinde Wiley has distinguished himself for his portraits of famous African-Americans depicted in classical poses set against Wiley’s signature graphic backgrounds. These brilliantly colored patterns are featured in the line of apparel, footwear and accessories that he recently designed with PUMA. Embodying the spirit of what it is to be a football player and fan – Wiley consistently brings both intensity and passion to his creations.

- Puma Football

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Esparanza Spalding x Overjoyed

I’m not sure if any of you saw any of the videos from ‘In  Performance at the White House’ earlier this year but Esparanza Spalding KILLED it! I’m mad I didn’t get a chance to buy a ticket for her London performance but this video kind of soothes my pain…Stevie would be proud.

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iamthenublack: Melinda of Gettogetha

introduce yourself

I’m a lifestyle writer, passionate blogger, authorprenuer, and I run the company Get Togetha. Get Togetha is all about: decor, design, lifestyle, apartment life and conversation.

fav lyric from a song

I have too many to count but most of them are from Jay-Z.

who and what inspires you?

Well I can go conventional and say the obvious: Oprah, Obama, Michelle O and then there’s the unconventional: Jay-Z, Rihanna’s, Grace Jones, then there’s Martha Stewart, Grace Jones, Serena Williams, and even Kanye. I think they all have one thing in common: going through a sh*t storm of criticism and this inspires me… because the amount of criticism you can handle is tantamount to the amount of success you experience.

icons past & present

Present: Kara Walker, Kehinde Wiley, Writer Edward P. Jones, Toni Morrison, Thelma Golden Past: Gordon Parks, Dorothy Dandridge, Max Roach, Sarah Vaughn.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Gettogetha

- He who owns the gold makes the rules
- A project is never done; its just due.

Check me out

Gettogetha

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iamthenublack: Toyin Odutola

introduce yourself

I am an artist, recent BA graduate currently applying for MFA candidacy for the 2010/11 academic year. I am Nigerian born, mainly American raised. I am aware that what and who I am encompasses a hyphenated identity and I am fine with that, although I like to associate myself more with the generic Black American identity of womanhood.

I create mainly portraits composed of pen and ink manipulations in meticulous and multifaceted marks to make up Black subjects and the intricacies of Black identity. I consider myself rather candid and am very much into confessional art such as those exemplified by Frida Kahlo and Tracey Emin. I like to explore power dynamics, control, sexuality and gender politics in my work. I love engaged conversation in any sort of intellectual forum. I am up for anything and open to everything.

fav lyric from a song

Feeling like a woman,Looking like a man, Sounding like a no-no, Mating when I can,

Whistling in the darkness, Shining in the night, Coming to conclusions, Night is right is tight,

- Walking in the Rain, Grace Jones

who and what inspires you?

My mother and father for being such a stronghold for my family and believing in my work always; as well as Chimamanda Adichie, the incredible Igbo writer of such books Purple Hibiscus and Half of the Yellow Sun.

The Benin Kingdom’s artistic explorations and achievements, particularly the bronze casting masks introduced in the late 1200s, which were the first of it’s kind in world art history–this is specifically inspiring for the area in which the Benin Kingdom existed is within the allocated geographical location where I was born and grew up as a child. Anything produced by Zadie Smith always speaks volumes to me, esp. on multiculturalism and identity.

The same can be said about bell hooks writings, particularly those on Black representation and female sexuality and identity. GRACE JONES: her whole essence, what she represents, what she has accomplished, what she continues to do…everything. He name is an inspiration. And any sort of meditative music always facilitates my work and progress, such as trip hop, R&B, alternative, industrial, and trance. Anything by Thierry Le Goues; his work give me Stendhal syndrome every time I see it. Having any sort of opportunity or deadline to share my work in a public dialogue is incredibly inspiring–whether it be a in an exhibition or an online forum.

This may sound rather vague, even cryptic, though I don’t mean it to, but the 90s era has recently been of immense influence, particularly the developments revolving around the youth culture — politics, sex, film, &etc such explorations and the like seem so much more prominent and poignant now that my generation is moving into ours 20s and discovering that it is our turn to make a mark in some way as a generations before us have done.

Oftentimes I feel the major decisions affecting us have been made for us by those who have either come before us or coming into the fray after us. I honestly believe it is our time now to make a valid stand, and I think the Obama presidential campaign was only a taste of that. Apathy, I guess is what inspires me to be passionate. To make my work and to show it to people to acknowledge, learn, understand, and inspire.

And finally, I would have to say my family heritage: a combination of the Yoruba and Igbo tribes of Nigeria. The idea of sameness and contrasts, togetherness and distinction, within a country and within me are extremely influential. These who parts of my identity, that of my Nigerian (Yoruba and Igbo) with the American feed significantly into my work and are always there in my mind as I develop my artistic methodology.

icons past & present

Zadie Smith, Kara Walker, Grace Jones, bell hooks, Michael Eric Dyson, Thierry Le Goues, Frida Kahlo, Yinka Shonibare, Kehinde Wiley, Wole Soyinka, Jackson Pollock, Lucio Fontana (the conceptual artist/minimalist), Charlotte Gainsbourg, and Patti Smith.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Toyin Odutola

I remember writing a blog entry that I feel still pertains to who I am, what I do, and what I prescribe to so I will include it here:

“Art-making is…lovemaking, as far as I’m concerned. There is an element of sacrifice and giving, as well as receiving, that is reminiscent of the same act. The yearning for art-making as well as the ecstatic thrill of being in the thick of the process, is strikingly similar to act of making love — without question, they are interchangeable to me.”

In essence, to make art is to make love and to spread and exhibit art is to promote and inspire love.

Check me out

My website

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Visualise: Toyin Odutola

So I usually include images of the artists work in their Q&A but I felt that I should display Toyin’s work as given so you can get the full image of how seriously dope she is (I’m loving the Goapele piece!).

Enjoy x

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BBC 1 Drama: Small Island

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Nike x John Obi Mikel

I can’t tell you the last time I stepped inside a Foot Locker, and I’m not even a huge fan of the Air Max 90, but this collabo with British artist Steve Wilson is SERIOUS!

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Chelsea player John Obi Mikel in the UK, Hatem Ben Arfar from Olympic Marseille in France, Davide Santon from Inter Milan in Italy and Sergio Busquets from FC Barcelona in Spain – who will be seen reinventing themselves through the eyes of cutting edge local artists. Each athlete will be captured in a portrait that explores the relationship between the player and Air Max 90, while drawing inspiration from their personal story to create a truly unique reinterpretation of their image.

Check out the video of Steve and John

via PT Shoes

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iamthenublack: Rachel Stewart

introduce yourself

My name is Rachel Stewart; I’m a mom, artist, homemaker, vinyl collector and jewelry designer. I’ve been painting and creating things all my life. but it was only when I got older (I’m 37) that I stopped caring about what others thought and started to put my work out there.

fav lyric from a song

“Dead in the middle of little Italy little did we know we riddled some middlemen who didn’t do diddly”

– Twinz by Big Pun

Also, the entire song “Going Places” from legendary bassist and singer Michael Henderson. He pretty much summed up for me when I was a little girl first hearing this song – how I imagined my man would treat me. I wanted him to dress me up and take me places!

who and what inspires you?

I’m inspired by thoughts that come to me when I’m right about to fall asleep, I’m not sleep yet not fully awake either…I look forward to that time of night…I see some random things.

icons past & present

I’ve got a really long list, but this the short version:

Phyllis Hyman, Patsy Cline, Georgia O’Keefe, Bernard Wright, and I love me some Whodini (back in black is my favorite album).

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Rachel Stewart

The best advice I ever got was “sometimes you have to say F*CK IT”. let sh*t go so you can move on to the next thing…people have TOO many hang ups

Check me out

Rachel Stewart art

Rachel Stewart Jewelry

F*ck Yeah Black Men

F*ck Yeah B-sides

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Visualise: Rachel Stewart

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thenublack x Junkprints

I received this beauty last night….I’m still smiling. Channel from Junkprints came through with the YGB remix – check it out:

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The History of Black America’s Motorcycle Culture

Growing-up in and around Harley biker culture, there was never any talk of African American riders– let alone that may actually have a part in contributing to American motorcycling culture.  It was like Black riders flat-out didn’t exist.  Now finally, their incredible story is starting to emerge through books likeSoul On Bikes and the Black Chrome exhibit at California African American Museum. The images and accounts are not just amazing to look at and enjoy– they are also incredibly inspiring.

via Kissmyblackads & The Selvedge Yard

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Lupe x Behind the scenes

So….I’m guessing this is the last video Lupe is making before he’s off up Mt. Kilimanjaro! I have not and probably will not be going to see the Twilight sequel but this song is definitely a grower (check out the cameo from 1500′s drummer Bam too).

Enjoy x

via SoulCulture

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Soul Train Awards

Yeah I know….a week late. Hopefully you’re in the UK and haven’t watched or have any idea what the Soul Train Awards is (let me not assume). Anyways, I caught this and thought I should post it. I’m not going to do any social commentary because this isn’t a gossip blog but check out the likes of Estelle, Melanie Fiona (those shoes…my GAWD), Boyz II Men, and Taraji P Henson give tributes to some of the greatest Motown acts….my favourite part: When Johnny Gill starts singing and the ladies near the front who stand up start doing a mental calcuation to see if their panties will reach the stage from where they are…”touch your neighbour and  say SECURITY!” Lol

Enjoy x

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Will & Jada x Pres. Obama

I’m mad I’m only just hearing about this, but anyways. I was wondering how come Will & Jada (and Willow who looked so cute) were at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony (Wyclef was also there and Esparanza Spalding who played during the ceremony). I haven’t as yet watched the interviews but I’m sure you’ll enjoy them….I wonder if Will and Barack do the Fresh Prince hi-5…pshhhhh, lol.

Enjoy x

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Death at a Funeral

I thought the title looked familiar – this is a remake of a British movie that was released in 2007. The cast looks pretty tight: Zoe Saldana, Columbus Short, Loretta Devine (doesn’t she always play someone’s mother in a movie?!) and three of my favourite comedians – Chris Rock, Tracy Morgan, and Kevin Hart (amongst others).

According to Wikipedia this is the ‘African-Americanized’ version….*blank stare*. It’s also been made into a Bollywood movie which leads me to think that there needs to be a Kung Fu and Nollywood remake, lol. Does this also mean that there are going to be ‘Caucasian-American’ versions of non-white movies?!!…’Hello is that Quinten? I have a script for you…have you seen the movie Soul Food?’ muhahaha

Enjoy x

The original

The 2010 remake

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Imagining Mozambique

Colonization, civil war, natural disaster and economic instability have plagued Mozambique which has led to widespread uncertainty for tomorrow’s youth. What can the children of today in Mozambique create to change their destiny? What will peace and prosperity look like in their 21st century? Will the future be bright? Or will the cycle of despair continue?

This exhibition will consist of various works of art and a small photography section consisting of a compilation of Mozambican images that are given to artists as inspiration.

The intent of Imagining Mozambique is to create thought provoking art that will bring attention to the day-to-day life of the children of Mozambique. Further, we hope the exhibition will open a larger conversation in the media about the situation for children in Mozambique and ideally inspire people to act in one form or another.

Imagining Mozambique

via KissMyBlackAds

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iamthenublack: Yayemarie of CosWeAfricanWomen…

introduce yourself

My name is Yaye Marie Ba, but people call me Yaye and I am representing Senegal (West Africa). I blog anything and everything about Mama Afrika. I am really passionate about continously discovering about African people, African things, African perspectives and culture.

I’m all about moving forward based on our past by staying positive , innovative people. I also wanted to add that I love other cultures but there’s not enough accurate and positive representation about my continent that’s the reason why I solely for the most part tend to focus on the Motherland:)

fav lyric from a song

“We fall down, but we get up…For a saint is just a sinner who fell down and got up”.

Donnie McClurkin – We Fall Down

who and what inspires you?

My Muslim faith, the determination of the strong women around me, good food and company, life, being able to attain goals, my personal dreams, the arts, love, and life.

icons past & present

Angelique Kidjo’s strength, Lizz Wright’s maturity and grace, Rokia Traore’s courage, Oumou Sangare’s feminity and authenticity, my sister’s determination.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Yayemarie

“It would be a shame not to live our lives to the fullest, when people are dying each day not getting the chance to experience life!”

Check me out

CosWeAfricanWomenAreDoin&DoinItWell

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Education Education Education

“Education is the medium by which a people are prepared for the creation of their own particular civilization, and the advancement and glory of their own race.”

Marcus Garvey

source: Africanfuturist

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Merry Christmas

So I’m guessing you’re on here because you’ve opened your gifts, seen the surprised/dismayed looks on the faces of your loved ones and stuffed your face with dinner…Merry Christmas on behalf of thenublack.

source: goodepix7

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The New York Times x Malick Sidibe: Prints & The Revolution

view the whole slideshow

via Forota

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The Hemma Collection

I’m loving the Hemma collection right now (the Kente jackets are so dope!). Started by NYU graduates Cindy and Edna, the Hemma collection is a fusion of past & present – something thenublack is all about. These ladies are true revolutionaries, not only on the fashion side but they’ve also started The Hemma Foundation – a charity to help improve education for children in West Africa, with 5% of all profits made from the collection going towards this cause.

- Thenublack salutes you ladies

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Lauri Lyons

I guess this proves that I need to dig deeper for jewels like this. A little strange that she’s the only one but in 2006, Lauri Lyons became the first African-American woman to be signed by Getty Images – check out her video:

Lauri Lyons

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thenublack ♥s The Root

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Analog Blogger

Wow, this really blew me away – so simple, yet powerful (and voluntary). Contrary to the stereotypical images of Africans you seen daily in the news – this is yet another story of the ingeneous minds wanting to empower others.

Watching this video made me think of a t-shirt that a friend and fellow blogger has that says ‘F*** your blog’…touche.

The next time you get annoyed when you lose your internet connection or go on vacation and can’t find a spot to “tweet” from…..

read the NY Times Article

via WhiteAfrican

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happy birthday to me

So I’ve hijacked my own blog to share something with you guys. I spent most of last week trawling through my iTunes and Wikipedia to find the top songs/music I remember of the past 25 years to celebrate me being….TWENTY FIVE.

Enjoy x

(click the image to download the tracks)

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thenublack ♥s Gorgeous Black Women

Am I the only one having a girl-crush right now?! The variety in genre and images are so beautiful. Representing old, new, hear of and unheard of faces…I hope you’ll feel as inspired and proud as I do while checking this blog out.

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The Meaning of Life

The meaning of life is contained in every single expression of life. It is present in the infinity of forms and phenomena that exist in all of creation.

Michael Jackson

source: JoanneAlexandre

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A Lesson in Love

I have learned not to worry about love; but to honor its coming with all my heart.

Alice Walker

source: Tafari

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Friendship

Friendships born on the field of athletic strife are the real gold of competition. Awards become corroded, friends gather no dust.

Jesse Owens

source: Omega418

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Happy New Year

source: Omega418

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I Am

Your own need to be shines out of any dream or creation you imagine.

James Earl Jones

source: Eric Lafourgue

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Radical

Radical simply means grasping things at the root.

Angela Davis

source: Ian Kraus

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Happy Mother’s Day

My mother never gave up on me. I messed up in school so much they were sending me home, but my mother sent me right back.

Denzel Washington

source: konboye

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Undefeated

“Believe me, the triumph cannot be had without the struggle.”

Wilma Rudolph

source: Omega418

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Somebody

None of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps. We got here because somebody – a parent, a teacher, an Ivy League crony or a few nuns – bent down and helped us pick up our boots.

Thurgood Marshall

source: Tilly Cooper

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Woman

No woman can be handsome by the force of features alone, any more that she can be witty by only the help of speech.

Langston Hughes

source: toia michelle

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The Kae Sun Experience

What better way to start the new year than with new music. Currently residing in Ontario, Canada – Ghanian born Kae Sun brings a sound that’s a fusion of his childhood memories – hip hop, roots reggae, and Ghanian folk music.

Having toured London (um…when is he coming back?!), he’s graced the stage of the Toronto Jazz Festival, opened up for Damien Marley, as well as having his music featured on the likes of CSI and the upcoming Vancouver Winter Olympics.

Kae Sun’s debut LP “Lion On A Leash” on Urbnet/Fontana/Universal in Canada.

Music for the future revolutionary?…..I’d say so!

Check out:

Kae Sun Official Music Page

Facebook

Twitter

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Quadruplets accepted into Yale

So if three is a crowd….what’s four?! This is just dope – I’m loving the artist sibling’s look (like it wasn’t obvious that she was the arty one, lol). How proud must their parents be right now?! I do smell the scent of a TV show in the making – let’s just pray that it gets produced by the right people. Congrats to the Crouch quads on their success

be inspired folks x

Read the New York Times article

via Shadow and Act

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Forward Ever…Backward Never

source: Ozwaldo Zoom

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Right On!

source: bcash67

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Mi Amigo

source: Dia Khalil

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Brother

But you see now baby, whether you have a ph.d., d.d. or no d, we’re in this bag together. And whether you are from Morehouse or Nohouse, we’re still in this bag together.

Fannie Lou Hamer

source: Florian Koenisgberger

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Suited up

source: Florian Koenisberger

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Church

“Hearing that pastor Preach, Benediction was all we went for. So we could run home and play Connect 4.”

1980 – Estelle

source: Rufus Mangrove

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Joyce Bryant

Joyce Bryant, “the Bronze Blond Bombshell,” never achieved Eartha Kitt or Lena Horne popularity, but the supper club chanteuse is still fondly remembered. The four octave singer, aka the black Marilyn Monroe, “the Voice You’ll Always Remember,” and “the Belter,” was born in Oakland, CA, but raised in San Francisco.

Her act was outrageously sexy; she wore provocative, tight, backless, cleavage-revealing mermaid dresses that left little to imagine and they were so tight, she had to be carried off-stage. Supposedly, Bryant twisted so much she lost four pounds a performance. The blond hair probably inspired Etta James — who, like Bryant, was also raised in San Francisco and lived in Los Angeles — to copy the blond hair image later. Bryant’s hair was naturally black, but not wanting to be upstaged by Josephine Bakerat a club, she doused it with silver radiator paint, slithered into a tight silver dress and voila: the Bronze Blond Bombshell and even Baker was impressed.

She was called one of the most beautiful black women in the world and regularly appeared in Afrocentric magazines like Jet.

The first phase of her career ended in 1955 when she denounced it for the church (her mother was a devout Seventh-Day Adventist). Despite problems with the IRS (she owed 60,000 dollars), she enrolled in a Seventh-Day Adventist College in Alabama and later became an evangelist. She recanted because of false accusations and returned to entertaining in the ’60s, finding work with touring foreign opera companies. She returned to the rocky club scene and sang on cruise ships; this time without the theatrics, blond hair, and tight dresses. Bryant was honored at the Arlington County Library in Arlington, VA, during Black History Month at an event hosted by jazz historian and WPFWradio host Jim Beyers (who calls her the Lost Diva).

~ Andrew Hamilton, All Music Guide

read more about Joyce

via: vielles annonces

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Fountain of youth

“The secret to the fountain of youth is to think youthful thoughts.”

Josephine Baker

source: eloquator

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iamthenublack: Shannae Ingleton of WhatWomenWant

introduce yourself

I’m a very Pisces woman who’s passionate about inspiring women and connecting them with the things that they love. What Women Want is a Women’s Social Network created by Shannae to bring women together to celebrate their distinct talents through events, inspirational stories, online marketing and unique social experiences.

fav lyric from a song

“Birthdays was the worst days and now we sip champagne when we thirstays…” - Juicy, Notorious BIG

It was my dad’s favorite lyric from a rap song and to me its symbolic of human evolution and living your dreams…

who and what inspires you?

People who follow through and continue to challenge me and myself. Oprah (obvs), Tyra, Michelle Obama – any woman who’s accomplished a lot and inspires many…

icons past & present

Barack Obama, children who are eternally optimistic and the women mentioned above

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Shannae Ingleton

Do that which you think you cannot

- Eleanor Roosevelt

Check me out

WhatWomenWant

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from Lagos with love

source: jibbit

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Life

“Just remember the world is not a playground but a schoolroom. Life is not a holiday but an education. One eternal lesson for us all: to teach us how better we should love.”

Barbara Jordan

source: feijeriemersma

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iamthenublack: Joshua ‘Juicy J’ Hooper

introduce yourself

My name is Joshua Hooper. I’m a full-time  graphic artist/ illustrator, part-time blogger, and an aspiring super-villain. My art alias is Juicy J. I’m based out of Atlanta, Georgia, but plan to move west to California, because that’s where I hear it’s going down. Been considering legally changing my name to Joshua Rambo Jones III to sound more…”money!”

fav lyric from a song

I don’t listen to much music with lyrics as I’m into mainly Drum N’ Bass, Electro and IDM, but I’m going to have to go with

“Take a pictures trick, I’m on a boat bitch”

- I’m on a Boat, Lonely Island

who and what inspires you?

Books and movies! I guess right now I’m big into Eckhart Tolle and his teaching. I recommend everyone read the book, THE POWER OF NOW. It’s and inspirational read. I also a big movie nerd, and inspired by movie directors who have unique visions. Irronically, I don’t follow much art.

icons past & present

Allot of people these days have this delusional sense of grandeur to be LEGENDS! It’s insanity. I don’t aim to be anyone one, just me. I think I already beat the game of life, no need to try and  ”make it” and be something I’m not. I do like Riddick from the Chronicles of Riddick. He’s fictional but he’s such a badass. Rambo is awesome too.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Juicy J

Don’t live a fear based life, but rather a life a life of adventure. Life is short – don’t waste being a spectator.

Check me out

PixelPimp (my website)

Greedmont Park (my blog)

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visualise: Juicy J

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iamthenublack: Aneky43251

introduce yourself

I go by Aneky43251 and I’m a grown woman who plays with dolls (12″ fashion dolls and action figures to be specific). For the most part I’m a self-taught Photographer and graduate from the University of YouTube, Lynda.com, and photo.net.

In some ways I perceive being on the outside in terms of a formal education to be a weakness. This is only because I think that the structure, resources, and technical knowledge Fine Art Programs provide to aspiring artists is extremely important. But in other ways, I find that it’s absence in my creative journey to be liberating. Liberating in the sense that I have the freedom to explore whatever subject I want at any pace of my choosing. I get to set my own boundaries, and that’s always fun.

I gravitated towards doll photography because my ambition exceeded my budget in terms of type of photography I wanted to do. I was limited in terms of equipment when working with people. I still photograph people, however dolls are just where I’m at right now.

To some people, doll photography may seem a little creepy or weird. I too felt that way at first. I never saw myself doing it. From a distance, I would never have guessed how much work goes into it (production wise); but now that I’m hooked, I understand it’s infinite possibilities in terms of treatments and narratives. On the creative side, using light and shadows to evoke emotion from something that has a “fixed” facial expression is no small feat. On the technical side, the level of sophistication required in creating provocative doll imagery shouldn’t be underestimated.

With doll photography, I am not just the photographer. I am the art director, stylist, and the set designer. I’m responsible for everything in the frame from concept to execution, at no point is the process collaborative, so in that respect I consider myself an Artist. My approach isn’t so much about exploring issues of identity, body image, or sexual roles imposed on the feminine form. I’ve never looked to dolls to reaffirm my identity; I’ve always referred to the actual women in my life for that. Even as a child I understood that dolls were just dolls, and that for the most part they reflect aesthetic tastes and values that don’t exactly mirror those of the culture that I’m from. I accept this reality, so it’s not an issue worth debating for me.

However, as an adult with an artistic point of view, I have the ability to impose my vision on this pre-packaged ideal. It’s never the other way around. In this relationship, the power is mine. My dolls look the way I want them to look, wear what I want them to wear, and reflect narratives and tastes that I identify with. Not to mention, the idea of corrupting a corporate construct with my vision makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

From moment I make a purchase, the doll is mine, and the modifications begin. I set aside the clothing, accessories, and play patterns in an attempt to bring them to life in a world that only “I” can know. With that said, I don’t photograph dolls from a collector’s point of view, I try to do it from a photographer’s point of view.

I have to admit that I have to have a sense of humor about it all. This new passion does make me feel a little awkward at times. Like when I’m in Toys-R-Us standing next to a eight year old kid giving her the hi-5 because the 2008 Holiday Barbie is stocked and on sale. Or raising-the-roof because Mattel finally added “Chandra” to it’s S.I.S. (So In Style Rocawear) doll line. And it really got serious when I bought my first 1:6 scale pistol gripped shotgun, and I can’t wait to use it.

fav lyric from a song

“Throwin my clothes out the windows, so when the wind blows I see my Polos and Timbos.”

- Biggie Smalls

who and what inspires you?

Music and everyday people. I love watching people. I prefer to play the wall and take it all in, but not in a passive way – always with a critical eye.

I’ve also started viewing a lot of print media lately. Not in terms of content, as I don’t think I’m the intended audience for most of the periodicals I subscribe to; but I do refer to them for color palettes, composition, and visual styles. I take what I need and leave the rest.

icons past & present

Shirley “Unbought and Unbossed” Chisholm, Prince, Marita Bonner, Jimi Hendrix, Roy Cohn, Malcom X.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Aneky43251

the best way to combat racism is with excellence. So in terms of production, I try not to talk about it…. I prefer to be about it.

Check me out

Flickr

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visualise: Aneky43251

(note: contains partial clothed Barbie dolls…thought I should say just in case you might be looking at this at work and leave your desk for a minute, lol).

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The Black List

Somebody hand me a late pass….this looks so beauitful, I’m off of find out where I can purchase volumes 1 & 2. In a film that works as a series of living portraits, prominent African Americans of various professions, disciplines and backgrounds, offer their own stories and insights on the struggles, triumphs and joys of black life in this country and manage to re-define “blacklist” for a new century in the process.

via Shadow and Act

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New Boy

This is such a beautifully shot short film – simple yet poigniant.

A young African boy with a haunting back story starts school in Ireland, and finds out quickly exactly what it means to be the new kid. Winner of Best Narrative Short at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival and nominated for an Oscar.

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iamthenublack: S. Kamau Mucoki

introduce yourself

Photographer, blogger. Kenyan. Born in Cailfornia, raised in Kenya, spent entire adulthood in these United States. Currently living in New York City. In my blog AFRICA.VISUAL_MEDIA I try to find connections between Africa and the West, Africa and its diaspora. I have also been photoblogging on and off (currently off) since 2000.

fav lyric from a song

“Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds” -  – Bob Marley.

As Africans our way forward is to be inspired by, not shackled to, our past as we figure out to live meaningfully in the 21st century.

who and what inspires you?

1. Andrew Dosunmu: In his photography, he has created a visual style that mixes the excitement, edge and glamor of global cities like New York with the colors, textures and people of Africa.

2. BLK JKS: Four South African gents carving their own idiosyncratic path through music, but still very much African. They are blowing big holes in the accepted notion of what is African music, especially as defined by other Africans.

3. New York City. Where worlds collide in endlessly interesting ways.

icons past & present

My late father John Mucoki. A man who lived with grace, humor, humility and the utmost integrity. A man who left everything he knew in Kenya to come and study in the US in the early 60′s. This opened up the globe to our family and set me on the path I am on today. A man who gave me my intellectual curiosity, my interest in the world. I still want to be like him when I grow up.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to

Here is something I wrote on my blog, which I think fits in with a nublack-style world view:

For all of us non-Westerners, our challenge is to balance African-ness/Asian-ness/Eskimo-ness/whatever-ness with the best of what the modern world has to offer in science, technology, philosophy, art, culture. That is the promise of globalization.

Check me out

Blog

Portfolio

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visualise: S. Kamau Mucoki

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iamthenublack: Ann D of Afrolicious

introduce yourself

I go by many names online: simplyann, Ann D!, afrolicious being a few.  But most people call me Ann.  I live and work in Los Angeles, and thanks to the web I’ve been able to work with and know people from all over the world.  Currently, I work in a computer lab based in a South Los Angeles community.  However, you can find traces of my side hustle on various websites.

fav lyric from a song

Currently, my music obsession is Nneka, so I’ll share lyrics from her song “Mind vs. Heart”

What is the mind without the heart

What am I without my shadow

What is life without knowing that death comes

What is a song without a melody

I think the magic comes from hearing her sing the lyrics.  Even about love, she is fiercely political, and I respect her for that.  She challenges me to go deeper to be more conscious- in everything – knowing that death comes.

who and what inspires you?

Music, words and images inspire me.  Together, I believe these three things have the ability to change the way humans relate with each other.  Music, because it’s the sweetest taboo.  It’s a universal language that crosses borders of nation, tongue, skin.  Words because they created the world and they create worlds.  One of my favorite women of color bloggers – brownfemipower – wrote about her love of words.  The post is long archived now, but during Obama’s campaign she wrote about the power of words to sway human thinking, especially when it comes to talking heads like Ann Coulter and Glenn Beck.  But still, brownfemipower has a way with words herself, and so do many of the people and poets I know offline and online.

And lastly, images.  I have a theory that one of the ways to heal broken brown communities (heck, all communities) is to reinforce their culture with positive, accurate and relevant images that reflect their worth.  How many girls are taught nearly from birth to change the way they look, walk, talk, just to fit into standards we have constructed out of systematic ignorance?  How many histories are whitewashed in order to make way for a dominant lie?  The truth is we will never know how many.  If we want to change the way we are viewed in society, in business, in the world in general, we have to flood the channels of media with images we create that represent us in the way we’ve chosen to be represented.

icons past & present

My mother is an icon to me.  She represents so much loudness and silence in my life that it’s hard to think without her voice somewhere inside me.

Other icons in the past were found in literature.  Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth were women I recited poetry about in the 5th grade.  Also Langston Hughes.  His poem, Mother To Son, was the first English poem I recited.  I carried the memories through to college when I took my first African American literature course and discovered Sterling Brown, another poet of the Harlem Renaissance.

I also discovered Zora Neale Hurston and Octavia Butler.  I read “Kindred” somewhere between high school and college and  spent most of my free time in college reading her entire canon.  I had been a sci-fi fan for a while but Octavia Butler’s stories were the first to truly connect to my imagination.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Ann D

It’s true the histories of brown skin were and are being systematically erased from the collective human memory.  This is why it’s important for each of us to seek education, not just in the books and formulas of tradition, but also in the stories we each have to tell.  Whether through music, words, images, or a combination of these, we each have a story to tell.  Be heard.

Check me out

Twitter:

@simplyann

@afrolicious

Simplyann

Afrolicious

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thenublack ♥s The Cosby Kids

I think I may have just stumbled across thenublack’s stateside sister site – yeeeah!

Who are they?

WE are the sons and daughters of Cliff and Claire.

African-American 20-somethings who have graduated from Historically Black Colleges. We come here to deliver you the DEFINITIVE Black Experience.

Careers, relationships, social life, politics, religion, education, fashion, sports, and any other topic per YOUR request. Yes, the Cosby Kids seek to deliver you a delightfully humorous and eclectic piece of work with serious undertones.

Careers, relationships, social life, politics, religion, education, fashion, sports, and any other topic per YOUR request. Yes, the Cosby Kids seek to deliver you a delightfully humorous and eclectic piece of work with serious undertones.

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thenublack ♥s Afopolitians

Their ‘mantra‘ is like The Lord’s Prayer for future revolutionaries – powerful stuff!

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thenublack ♥s What The Fresh

I’m mesemerised by the navigation system – I can’t stop clicking links I’ve already clicked, lol. WTF is the flashlight for all things creative – looking forward to what they have in store for 2010.

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thenublack ♥s Africhic

I read on someone’s blog that thenublack wasn’t help them save money…I apologise, yet still leave you with MORE places to find African inspired clothing, lol.

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L.O.V.E

I’ve had various strange/nice experiences on Valentine’s Days in the past – from receiving handmade cards from my mum, to going on a date on the 15th just to be different, and to realising that I have an aversion to single red roses (a rose from the club, for me?!….a musical rose, for me?).

This has nothing to do with me being single either, I think roses are beautiful – just single red ones especially on Valentine’s Day irk me a little. I guess coming from a household where your dad’s idea for a Valentine’s Day present for your mum is to fill up her car with petrol…….10 points for originality pop, lol.

Whether it be Eros, Philia, Agape, Pragma or Storage (Google it, lol) it’s all love…

—————————————————————-

Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.

Zora Neale Hurston

source: CharlesMedia

source: Tafari

source: Pete Souza for The White House

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thenublack ♥s COCA

Chicago is in the house folks! Bringing you the flyest in all things creative – COCA has all the bases covered.

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UNDACOVA

I never used to get why people cared about what colour underwear they wore…I was young, what did I know? I also thought that underwear/pyjama parties were an excuse for girls to dress like video chicks (I’d actually prefer if you DIDN’T sit on my couch – thanks) – but after seeing what UNDACOVA has to offer I think I’ve changed my mind.

————————————————————–

The label was started out of the need for a fashion-forward, fresh and well-produced underwear product in the South African marketplace. This need was felt and ultimately addressed by two individuals with a passion for design and fashion, Chris Kilchling and Percy Ndaba. With their entrepreneurial spirit spurred, they started the process of initial conceptualization, designing and sampling during the winter of 2008.

Under the theme ‘Underwear & African Hedonism’, the brand has since continued to spread its wings, and Chris and Percy are working tirelessly on pushing their underwear collection forward.

Check them out:

UNDACOVA website

UNDACOVA Facebook

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iamthenublack: Ashley Scott of DRAPES

introduce yourself

Hi, I’m Ashley Scott the brains behind Drapes. I began designing Drapes because women weren’t wearing amazing jewelry like they did in the Edie Sedgwick days and I wanted to bring that back. I brought my art background to my designs. They are all handmade by me.:) My mom is a custom designer and I would always take her leftover fabric and create pieces, so she is my biggest inspiration. 

fav lyric from a song

“Sometimes it takes a thousand tries to win…the wait is over”

- The Wait is Over, Rihanna

who and what inspires you?

My mother of course:), my good friend Chloe from Holland. I love her face, so she inspires new Drapes:) Edie Sedgwick because she was the first to make earrings a big thing. And I adore Christian Lacroix, he is my favourite designer, I always dreamed of designing accessories for his Paris shows:)

icons past & present

Beyonce…one day I will get her in Drapes:) I also love Donyale Luna…her face was amazing

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Ashley Scott

Accessories should never be meek or expected, Drapes=THE FUTURE!

Check me out

AshleysDrapes

Drapes at RSVP Gallery

Facebook

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thenublack ♥s Design Indaba

Design Indaba is a celebration of design in a country iconic of the triumph of the human spirit. Proof that even the most intractable problem can be neutralised by the will of the people, resurgent South Africa is a beacon to the world.

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• visualise: Andrea Pippins

visualise: Ebony Patterson

‘Gangstas for Life’ explores the fashionable practice of skin bleaching within Dancehall culture.The images raises questions about perceptions of masculinity within Jamaican dancehall culture.  The images are deconstructed into stereotypical homosexual beauties, with bleached faces, red glossed lips, glitter and feminine motifs. These images challenge practices of the emasculation  of young black males and question stereotypical standards of beauty amongst genders .The dancehall has become a place of major cultural significance amongst young working class Jamaicans.  It is the community waterhole where one learns about the latest slangs, songs, dances, fashion and social gender practices.

The Dancehall is the belly of Jamaican society that reaffirms, reflects and assigns labels as it relates to social norms or behaviors deemed deviant with Jamaican society, such as homosexual stereotypes This body of work explores contemporary notions of beauty within a Jamaican context. Exploring the grotesque as the sought after beauty. It seeks to examine the dichotomy between Jamaican stereotypical ideologies of homosexual practices and its parallels within dancehall culture, where skin bleaching (whitening) has become trendy and fashionable primarily among young black males. This work raises questions about body politics and gender, gender and beauty, beauty and stereotyping, race and beauty, beauty and the grotesque.

-  SeeLine Gallery

——————————————————————————-

Ebony’s website

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Happy Nu Year

I’m writing this one from the comfort of my IKEA bed sheets. So it’s the new year and I’m starting my “conquer the world” new years resolution. 2009 for thenublack was probably one of the highlights of the year (I was going to say my life but that may be a TAD melodramatic).

To say I’ve been inspired would be an understatement, from travelling to New York this year and connecting with other creatives, to sharing ideas for a meetup group with my sister really pushes home the purpose of the blog which at first was just something of an exercise. A friend of mine recently became a teacher and was gushing about how he showed his students the blog and they really liked it – I was really touched by that as I would have loved to of had a blog like this one when I was of schooling age.

So what’s in store for 2010?! I’m really going to try and write more in posts (I’m all for WYSIWYG but a little insight into my views won’t hurt). I had a chat with my older sister and we’re planning a meetup group/collective of bloggers and creatives so that’s in the pipeline, as well as more freebies for readers (a collection of mantras from featured nublackers, pin badges and stickers etc).

Last but not least I’d love your feedback on what works, what doesn’t work, if you’d like to contribute (I’m always on the lookout for people to put me onto cool stuff).

Thank you all so much for stopping by and commenting, a big thanks to all of those who contributed, all the blogs that have inspired me…..

May thenublack world domination plan COMMENCE muhahahaha,

Gabi x

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visualise: DRAPES

So much for my 2010 new years resolution for saving *cough* I need a ‘dope ish found on thenublack’ section for my monthly budget because those MJ earrings are SERIOUS. Thenublack loves what you’re doing and where you’re going Ashley xx

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iamthenublack: Alannah Scott

introduce yourself

Hello my name is Alannah Scott and I am a fashion design student and Artist & I’m just a girl with thoughts and ideas.

fav lyric from a song

I don’t really have a favorite song lyric but I do have a favorite quote:

“Think rich, look poor”

-Andy Warhol

who and what inspires you?

Honestly anything and anyone inspires me like for instance a certain body movement, a glance, posture, the ground, colors, a setting almost anything can draw some sort of inspiration for me.

icons past & present

I have so many icons but the one that has made a huge impact on my life is Andy Warhol

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Alannah Scott

Always Stay true to yourself, never settle for less, and stay creating something everyday its good for your health!

Check me out

PlaneeJane

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Maxwell x TRACE

TRACE has to be one of my favourite publications, and Maxwell is one of my favourite artists (amongst other things, lol). What better way to start the news year than with a 14 minute interview?!

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iamthenublack: Matilda Egere-Cooper

introduce yourself

My name is Matilda Egere-Cooper – I’m originally from the US, but have lived in the UK for 16 years. I guess that makes me an Anglo-American, which, in my line of work, definitely has its perks! For the last eight years, I’ve developed a career as a music journalist and it’s been pretty cool. I’ve interviewed lots of people including artists I personally appreciate like Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys, and I’ve written for a few publications from The Voice to i-D to the Independent, who I still write for now. A few years ago I decided to add teaching to my bow because I believe young people today have a lot of potential, which unfortunately mainstream education is failing to nurture, so I work with a number of organizations on journalism courses aimed at young people, and I love it! Teaching isn’t a terrible path – yes, kids can be rude, but a verbal back slap never hurt anybody, trust me! I’m certain they’ll thank me one day.

My blog started off as a spot to highlight my freelance work, but over the years, it’s been a constant document of my life, my rants (I’m pretty opinionated), and most recently, my love of photography, which is another area of my career I’m keen to pursue. My hope is that Waltzing Matilda will inspire others to follow their dreams and creativity – whether it’s writing, art or whatever. Aside from the teaching and freelancing, I’m currently working on a few photography projects, include the 365 project. I document an aspect of life ever day for a year, and I suspect it’ll be one of those adventures where by Day 183, I’ll probably be running the streets with Asbos or consorting with trannies in Soho, but that’s good – I’m expecting the unexpected.

fav lyric from a song

“Tell you one lesson I learned, if you wanna reach something in life, you aint gonna get it unless, you make a little bit of sacrifice”

- Sacrifice, The Roots

who and what inspires you?

God (I’m a born-again Christian), positive people, my friends, quality music, and those who’ve overcome adversity and have lived to tell the tale. I salute you!

icons past & present

Maya Angelou, Michelle Obama, photographer Mary Ellen Mark, pre-new millennium Lauryn Hill, Joyce Meyer.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Matilda Egre-Cooper

“Never settle for nothing.”

Check me out

Blog

Photography

Independent Minds

Twitter

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visualise: Matilda Egere-Cooper

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GIANT x Malcolm Shabazz

I was browsing the GIANT mag website and stumbled across an interview and photoshoot they did with Malcolm X’s grandson (who also happens to be called Malcolm). Now I have my own opinion on his story as I believe to a certain extent your upbringing has a huge part on how you function as an adult, but I’d love to know what he’s up to now and how he deals with being the first male grandchild of the late Malcolm X.

Wanting to find an image from the photoshoot, I stumbled across the page of Aliya King – the journalist who corresponded with Malcolm through his incarceration and went on to interview him. The whole GIANT article makes complete sense to me now, and I completely understand her POV of not wanting to exploit him even though others did. I think a Q&A may be in order with Miss King because her whole experience is amazing.

via GIANT magazine

read Aliya’s article

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Shafiq Husayn – Lil’ Girl Feat. Fatima & Stephen “Thundercat” Bruner

This is officially ‘Black Girls with Cool Hair Part III’….I hope I’m not the only one having a major girl crush right now – it’s like the Phatty Girl remix on soul, lol (don’t act like you never watched that video and thought about rocking a velour tracksuit…*cough*)

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iamthenublack: Charla of What The Fresh

Yay, thenublack loves ladies who blog, and the duo at WhatTheFresh are no exception, I’m really excited to see what they’re going to be getting into in 2010.

“We are filmmakers, photographers, and entrepreneurs. We have a few friends who are extremely talented and so we realized that there are a lot of amazing artists out there who don’t get the shine they deserve so instead of complaining about it, we did something about it and that’s how What The Fresh came about…”

- Alexis Casson & Charla Harlow of WTF

Check them out

What The Fresh |  YouTube |  Vimeo | Twitter |  Facebook

————————————————————-

introduce yourself

Charla Harlow I’m very assertive and passionate when it comes to my life and my goals. My daily growth means I try everyday to be a better daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, friend and lover. If I’m not growing, I’m dying. I’m learning to live life to the fullest and learning to “let go and let God.”

fav lyric from a song

I took my wildest dreams and then mapped ‘em out.

Killer – Drake featuring Nippy Hussle

And why not? It’s very straightforward but so necessary. Nippy explains how he had to struggle and he had to do the work but in the end he got the results he wanted.  The whole song talks about getting what you want even if you have to do it on your own. You can’t keep talking about it, you have to actually do something or you’ll never get there. I feel like I’m at a place where I’m mapping out my dreams and putting in the hard work but I’m really close to getting to the next level.

who and what inspires you?

I’m inspired by anyone who comes from a place of struggle and oppression but still finds the strength to persevere. Black people always inspire me. I love all people but I’m hopelessly in love with Black people. There’s something in the way we laugh, move, cry and live that is very powerful and unique. Kids who have been raised by single mothers or grew up in broken homes inspire me. Single mothers inspire me. There’s something to be said about someone who makes something out of nothing. Black women inspire me. We’ve been cast as undesirables at times but something tells me that others see something in us that they want but could never have.

icons past & present

My mother, Diane Torrence, she’s the strongest person I know. I can talk to her about anything at anytime and I love her for that. My ancestors, whose faces I can’t see but whose voices are very clear. Recently I’ve been inspired by Michelle Obama. The fact that one of the most visible women in the world looks like family does something for Black women and our self-esteem. The world has to call her the First Lady; it makes me smile every time.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Charla Harlow

Rebuilding the link that has been broken but will soon connect us all. Not talking about it, being about it.

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iamthenublack: Alexis of What The Fresh

introduce yourself

I’m an Aries with a passion for the arts ha ha, no but seriously I’m a very shy and particular person so I tend to write a lot, writing is how I express myself. Whether people read my writing or not it’s how I stay grounded and focused.

fav lyric from a song

My neighbor likes my clothes, but hadn’t seen me with my scars exposed

- Neighbor, Gnarls Barkley

I love the song because it talks about people wanting what someone else has or wanting to be like someone else but has no idea what the other person has gone through. I’ve always found ego and pretension to be very interesting. We should all be careful what we wish for when it comes to envy and learn to love ourselves as we are.

who and what inspires you?

Anything of substance and meaning inspires me. I find beauty in almost anything that has some type of positive message or meaning to offer people. The sound of children laughing also inspires me; it evokes a feeling of responsibility. We have to make this world a healthier and more conscious place for our youth.

icons past & present

Nina Simone, Debbie Allen, Carolyn Haynie (My Mother) and Kaki King, all very talented women who took/take no ones B.S. My icons are simply talented and educated women who can hold there on.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to

Destroying stereotypes and breaking barriers… The wait is over.

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iamthenublack: Tennille McMillan

introduce yourself

I am Tennille McMillan + own a company called naKIMuli Inc which houses our 2 clothing labels: naKIMuli and Shanae. naKIMuli is the funky, fashion forward label; the  eccentric side of my personality. And I just launched Shanae in late November. Shanae is an all jersey line of clothing + accessories; it’s best for every day wear, yet still funky + unique.

fav lyric from a song

“There is a way, no matter what they say”

- There Is A Way, Mos Def

who and what inspires you?

EVERYTHING inspires me! It varies so much… But my biggest inspirations are music, love, happiness, and people, especially those who march to the beat of their own drum.

icons past & present

I will give you the 1st one that comes to mind- Grace Jones. I love how unique + CONFIDENT she is.  Her style was/is bold + in your face; it pushed buttons that “society” was not ready for, especially from a dark skinned black woman.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Tennille McMillan

I must quote Fela Kuti- “Original, No Artificiality” Be different, take risks! Don’t be afraid to do something that most deem “crazy.” You just gotta follow your heart. It will make you feel good + it will inspire others to see the light in themselves.

Check me out

Nakimuli

Twitter

Tumblr

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visualise: NaKIMuli/Shanae

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iamthenublack: Milan Staples of A Girl Can Mac

introduce yourself

I am an artist in many forms: make up artist, accessories designer, stylista, and budding photographer. I also sew and have taken up crocheting recently. I love art and I’m constantly striving for serenity, achieving my goals and dreams, and seeking out new adventures; truly experiencing a full life. You only get one so why not live it passionately?!

fav lyric from a song

“I’m living my life like it’s golden”

- Golden, Jill Scott

I try to say this to myself every day. It sums up what I ultimately want out of my life.

who and what inspires you?

My parents are my top inspirations. When I was first born, they were broker than broke and now they are living “The American Dream”. They are a first hand testiment to me that it doesn’t matter where you start out, it’s where you want to go and with work and determination, you can get there. I am inspired by life in general. Just when I think I may be close to having it somewhat figured out, I’m psyched out again by it. Lol. There’s no one path to a successful life and I find that very intriguing.

This one will sound cliche maybe but I’m also inspired by my ancestors. I can’t imagine living in a time where the opportunities, rights, and “equality” that I afford now wouldn’t have been available due to the color of my skin. They inspire me to keep going after my dreams and achieving things so I can show my appreciation to them and that their lives, tears, prayers and fight weren’t in vain. I want to make them proud!

icons past & present

My past icons: both sets of my grandparents- I get half of my style sense and my entreprenuerial spirit from my paternal ones. They were sharp dressers! And with only high school degrees and being entreprenuers, they lived “The American Dream”. I get the importance of education from my maternal ones. Both of them were the first in their families and in the Black population back then to earn college degrees.

My mother is one of my present icons- I get the other half of my style sense from her and my creativity from her. She taught me how to sew and used to be a fashion designer when I was little. She is now a popular fiber artist based out of Cincinnati. We constantly feed off of each other’s energy to create.

Some past celebrity icons of mine would be Dorothy Dandridge and Selena. I just love how they carried themselves, their poise, and sophisticated/chic sense of style.  But most importantly, they both were involved in giving back to various communities and causes with their time and money. I already enjoy giving back with my time and when I become a baller (lol), I will love to share some of my money for various causes as well.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Milan

The NuBlack philosophy/mantra according to Milan: Happiness doesn’t fall in your lap; you have to constantly work at it and pursue it with a ferverent passion. This life isn’t for whimps and is truly what you make it. You have the power to make it what you want it to be, be it good or bad. Never forget that. Appreciate and respect your life and like Jill Scott said, “live it like it’s golden” because it is

Check me out

A Girl Can Mac

StylnProfyln

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thenublack ♥s Flawless Hustle

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iamthenublack: Ronke Adeyemi of OndoLady

introduce yourself

I am a Marketer by day and Blogger by night. I started The Musings of Ondo Lady because I love writing and I love pop culture so I thought this platform would be a great idea.

fav lyric from a song

1989, the number another summer

sound of a funky drummer

music hittin your heart

cause I know you got soul.

- Fight The Power, Public Enemy

who and what inspires you?

music, films, magazines, fashion, TV, books, arts and overheard conversations.

icons past & present

My icons are people who have not only done amazing things with their lives but are also people who I would go get out of my seat to have my picture taken with:

Muhammed Ali, Chris Rock, Usain Bolt, Tommy Smith, Carl Lewis, and Oprah.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Ronke Adeyemi

Before you point out problems make sure you have a solution, because it is easy to criticize.

Check me out

MusingsofOndoLady

Facebook

Twitter

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PJ Morton in London

Yay, PJ Morton is finally coming to London! I first came across him on Myspace (this was before Facebook and Twitter popped off) and fell in love with his eclectic sound and style (and that apart from being a dope musician I think he’s really cute, lol). Think Stevie Wonder and Kenna then throw in some Gospel and add to that the finest nerd chic and you’re almost on your way to PJ Morton. This Grammy Award winner who also happens to be the son of Bishop Paul S Morton – has worked with the likes of LL Cool J, Fred Hammond and Heather Headley to name a few.

I know I promised myself I’d write more in posts but I’ll let the music do the talking . If you’re in London on the 28th – I’d highly suggest you checking out the show

photo:Facebook

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Look!

It’s about to be ORRRN! I haven’t been this excited since:

1.Obama’s Inaguration

2. Reggie Bush and Terrell Owens graced the pages of GQ Magazine

3. I went to see 3T in concert

I got home to find these beautiful babies waiting for me….oooo I’m so excited! I’m thinking of giving them to the folks I feature or just as a token of appreciation to you guys. All I ask is that you take a snap and e-mail it to me….I feel a movement coming on!

(btw if you didn’t know – I’m a graphic designer so that’s another reason why I’m excited – nothing like seeing your designs on the final product looking DOPE…the kente one is by far my favourite!)

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iamthenublack Gina Knight of Naturellebelle

introduce yourself

Hi there! My name is Gina aka Belle, I am founder of naturalbelle a hair blog that started as a documentation of my own hair journey and has snowballed, grown and created a life of it’s own all in all I compile images of natural haired fierce women and put them all in one place. I work in the hairdressing industry and I’m fanatical about hair and fashion and popular culture. I’m a creative person who has found her tiny little niche in the natural hair community, which is growing by the blog! I hope my blog helps black women (and men) accept different kinds of beauty in the black community.

fav lyric from a song

“All right stop collaborate and listen. Ice is back with my brand new invention”

- Ice Ice Baby, Vanilla Ice

who and what inspires you?

My followers on naturalbelle inspire me everyday. The internet is a very inspiring place I get inspired by YouTube video’s I’m sent and the images I would be able to pick anyone person or any one thing.

icons past & present

Tina turner and Etta James for being two of the first black rock and roll divas.

Josephine baker for being a pioneer and lastly Amber Rose- just purely to look at – I marvel at her style and boldness.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Gina Knight

“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”

Check me out

Hairspiration

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RWD: Cassette inspired art

Carrying on what seems to be my nostalgic obsession with appliances pre-CD (check out the cassette tape ties which are pretty impressive), I came across these pieces of musical art while browsing through the Creative Quarterly Journal. I’m loving the Jimi Hendrix and MJ ones the most and love the use of gold on the Berry Davis portrait.

—————————————-

In this series I showcase a number of portraits of musicians made out of recycled cassette tape with original cassette. Also included are portraits made from old film and reels. The idea comes from a philosopher’s (Ryle) description of how your spirit lives in your body. I imagine we are all, like cassettes, thoughts wrapped up in awkward packaging.

- eisimmons

check out the rest

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One Year On

So, today will be one year since Pres. Obama’s inauguration. I’m not going to be ignorant and ignore the ups and downs so far but I do want to highlight the momentous event that was the 21st of January 2009…because it was one of the most inspiring (and coldest) moments of my life to date. Seeing folks that had been around during the civil rights movement, their faces strewn with tears of elation at the fact that a dream had finally come true in America was really touching. The whole time I was there, it was like a never ending party, a little surreal at times – but something that has definitely inspired me and hopefully will inspire you too.

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iamthenublack: Funmi of ThatLondonGirl

introduce yourself

I’m a peanut loving, mindless optimist who blogs about things I dream about. I drink a lot of tea and I love eating plantain. I would actually love to be a lawyer just so I can become friends with all the mobsters in the world, lol.

fav lyric from a song

A spider web, and I’m caught in the middle

- Trouble, Coldplay

who and what inspires you?

My friends they do so much, they are so ambitions, which motivate me to be successful. Photographers like Sam Bayliss-Ibram, Matthew Fargaraphy, Rankin etc. Plantain, little kids, Dora the Explorer. Comedians like Russell Brand, David Mitchell, Russell Howard and obviously my mother with her strict Nigerian ways!

icons past & present

Artists I respect Elvis, Kurt Cobain, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, and Marilyn Monroe…the list is endless.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Funmi

“Live life like it’s your last. Make sure you smile every single day and never say the word “IMPOSSSIBLE”"

Check me out

ThatLondonGirl

Twitter

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iamthenublack: Terry M

introduce yourself

I’m a 21-year-old graphic designer, illustrator, artist, student, freelancer from California with an extremely overactive imagination and a short attention span.

fav lyric from a song

We bring ourselves down and build ourselves up in disappointment

How fragile we are, so fragile we are, we just don’t show it

-Shoot Down The Stars, Gym Class Heroes

who and what inspires you?

I can and have been inspired to create things based on the smallest things like a single word, more abstract concepts, other people and places, or just by being on the Internet a lot.

icons past & present

Spiderman, my artistic friends and my neighbors (on and off the Internet). They’ve always got some amazing things to share with the world that motivate me to push my own work to a higher level…Mostly Spiderman though.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Terry M

Always carry a pen.

Always.

Check me out

My Portfolio

Flickr

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visualise: Terry M

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thenublack ♥’s: Soulmates Chicago

This right here is just beautiful! Autumn & Brian Merritt started up Solemates Chicago in 2006 to cater to the needs of those looking for fashion with a little more substance. SC is also the concept shop for The Brooklyn Circus so you know they go PRETTY hard in terms of trend setting and style.

Check out their blog to find out what goes on in the world of a stylish husband and wife team (and their beautiful baby!).

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iamthenublack: Autumn Merritt of Solemates Chicago

introduce yourself

I am Autumn Merritt: a boutique owner: one half of Solemates, aspiring fashion designer: the Madame of Sir & Madame, a stylist, a teacher, a wife and mother.

fav lyric from a song

I am a Sade fanatic: “Love is Stronger than Pride”

who and what inspires you?

people and technicolor films. I am an avid people watcher, its amazing what you can pull from just observing the personal style of everyday people- its always changing but there are so many constants- keeps the creative juices flowing. In regards to film, I absolutely love the styling and set design of 1950′s romantic comedies, and the use of technicolor just makes the images so much more vivid- a pleasure to watch and find inspiration for Sir & Madame.

icons past & present

I dont really focus on ‘icons’.  I simply admire people who are true to themselves and do what comes naturally. 

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Autumn Merritt

Complaining solves nothing, offer solutions to fix it.

Check me out

Twitter

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iamthenublack: Brian Merritt of Solemates Chicago

introduce yourself

Brian, Entrepreneur since 6th grade, I have a love for clothing, shoes, sneakers, and just looking good. I’m from North Carolina but grew up in Chicago since the Bulls were winning Championships so you can say I’m from Chicago.

fav lyric from a song

The one that pops in my head is:

“But hold up/Moet be tasting like throw up”

- Incarcerated Scarfaces, Raekwon

It actually does taste like throw up and I’ve been saying that for years!

who and what inspires you?

Any and everything inspires me. I know that sounds a little lame but there are good and bad situations that inspire me to create more, live better, work harder, and make my families situations better.

icons past & present

Michael Jordan, Malcolm X, Spike Lee, Master P, Ralph Lifshitz (Ralph Lauren), Daymond John, Karl Kani, Dame Dash.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Brian Merritt

We need to take care of each other like other races. We are the most influential people EVER yet we rarely profit off of it. Blacks spend the most money on non-appreciable goods but we spend it with everyone except Blacks. We need to start investing in ourselves and community. If we did this we will not only acquire wealth but more importantly power. With the power we can make serious changes for our future. 

Check me out

Twitter

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iamthenublack: Alicia of Instant Vintage

introduce yourself

I’m Alicia. Born and bred in Los Angeles with the soul of a hippie/punk, and a penchant for profanity.  I work a desk job to pay the bills, but I fancy myself as a small-time jewelry maker, budding photographer, and blogger. 

fav lyric from a song

“Forever trust in who [you] are.”

- Nothing Else Matters, Metallica

It’s a slightly modified lyric, and I try to live by it as best I can.

who and what inspires you?

I am most inspired by my peers who are out doing great things.  I have the privilege of knowing and meeting some very talented people and watching them work and succeed motivates me to do more.  I also  take a lot of inspiration from music.

icons past & present

I can’t honestly say that I have set icons because they can shift depending on what I’m into at the time, but I will always (always, always) look up to my father.

the nublack philosophy/mantra according to Alicia

Don’t be afraid to be you even if that “you” isn’t what everyone expects.  People hardly have enough of their own shit together to try and judge yours, so don’t put too much stock in what they have to say about you.  There’s no mold for this life of ours, so live it the way you want…aside from doing people harm…because that just isn’t cool.

Check me out

InnyVinny

Twitter

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Soundtrack for a Revolution

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The First Lady

Mamie Smith – the first African-American women to record the Blues.

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V magazine x Gabby Sidibe

I just got put onto this by the lovely ladies at Hemma.

V Magazine have gone there with their plus size issue (since Vogue Italia’s all Black issue, seems like a lot of fashion mags are doing ‘edgier’ issues). Isn’t Dakota Fanning about 12?! Anyways – I want to say so much about these two covers but I will refrain from ranting and ask you, the public, my dear readers – what say you? (I’m refraining because I studied semiotics at uni and I’m tempted to break this down. I’ve also been told that I’m a cynic….WHATEVER!)

I have a lot of love for Gabby Sidibe since I caught a Q&A with her in London last year. I’ve also been reading comments on various websites and I’m a little annoyed with what’s being said. I guess people act ignorant when a different view of beauty is presented to them and they don’t know how to deal with it *smh*.

I just want to know where I can find a copy, they seem to be sold out on V magazine’s website

pics via Jezebel

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Event: Let Freedom Ring @ Rich Mix – 23rd January

Stirring contemporary jazz with gospel, blues and Afro-Cuban music from Mercury/MOBO award-winning saxophonist Denys Baptiste. It’s inspired by the spirit and rhythms of Dr Martin Luther King’s momentous ‘I Have A Dream’ speech on its 40th anniversary, and features an explosive 11-piece international line-up including Abram Wilson, Omar Puente and Gary Crosby

VJs from acclaimed film-makers Yeast join the band to present a creative live mix of footage of the musicians’ performance on stage, the text of Ben Okri’s poem, and powerful images of the struggle for freedom, equality and justice by oppressed peoples throughout the international community. An incredibly moving experience, the music and visuals act as powerful reminders of why the quest for freedom and civil rights must continue.

- Rich Mix

Visit the website

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To Haiti with Love

I know I haven’t posted anything Haiti related as yet…but this second earthquake is making my heart ache. Thoughts and prayers are with all those in Haiti right now – stay strong.

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Snow Leopard

“Black people dominate sports in the United States – 20 percent of the population and 90 percent of the Final Four.  We own this shit.  Basketball, baseball, football, golf, tennis, and as soon as they make a heated hockey rink we’ll take that shit too.&