Out And About (Event): Prang At The Gramaphone + Tomb Crew And Friends

Tomorrow night (31st March) welcomes the launch of Prang at the Gramaphone in Commercial Street East London. DJ's on the night will be Tomb Crew (Trouble and Bass), Monki (Rinse), The Specialist (Loose Synths) and Yani (Prang). The moto is "anything goes", so expect a night filled with a mix of different music, good atmosphere and cool people.


The event kicks of at 9pm until 2am and the entry fee is a mere £5 so it won't break the pocket either!


Location: The Gramaphone, 60.62 Commercial Street, E1 6LT

See you there.

I Heart Fashion: Westfield To Launch Spring/Summer 2011 Mega Fashion Wardrobe

Westfield is readying the launch of its one week long shopping extravaganza, due to take place from the 29th March to 3rd April. Westfield 'Big Fashion Wardrobe' will undoubtedly make Oxford street look like an amateur shopping experience compared to the much anticipated event which  also heralds the start of Spring/Summer 2011. 


With high street favorites such as River Island, French Connection, Jaeger and Ted Baker all joining in on the shopping festivities, if the feeling of raiding a house sized wardrobe doesn't excite you then may be the exclusive products- that can't be found in any other store, will entice you. Daisey Lowe will also be on site to launch  her Lomography photographic exhibition in association with the British Heart Foundation.


Three words, See you there!


Click here for directions to London's Westfield shopping center. 

I Heart Music (Video): DJ Premier & Pete Rock Stop By Damon Dash's DD172

Only someone of Damon Dash's stature could have two of the most prolific names in Hip hop come pay  him a visit at his humble abode-well his DD172 studio at least. Legendary producers DJ Premier and Pete Rock stopped by Dash's creative music hub DD172 and observed producer of the moment Ski Beatz, work his magic in the studio.


Essential viewing for music heads world wide.



DJ PREMIER AND PETE ROCK VISIT DD172, PART 1 from DD172 on Vimeo.


DJ PREMIER AND PETE ROCK VISIT DD172: PART TWO from DD172 on Vimeo.

Source: Soulculture

I Heart Music (Video): Big Sean Ft Chris Brown 'My Last'

Big Sean collaborates with Chris Brown on his latest single 'My Last'. Hopefully this signals an imminent album release from the G.O.O.D Music alumni.

Press play.

I Heart Fashion (News): Solange Knowles To Launch Fashion Career

Solange Knowles is about to embark on a new fashion career with high hopes of becoming a chief consultant for a well established fashion firm. Speaking to WENN the singer revealed, 


“I feel like there are so many talented people who've studied this and know the skill of the craft of designing because it is an art, that I would be reluctant to call myself a designer. It's still in the early stages so I can't really reveal [much] but hopefully something will develop."


I'm  actually quite excited about Solange' new career direction. I've always secretly admired her fashion sense (more so than big sister, Beyonce's over glamorous dress sense), so I can only predict good things from this.


Source: Pressparty 

I Heart Music (Video): Carlitta Durand 'iCarli'

Having already familiarized her sweet vocals with the likes of Little Brother on their track 'The After Party' (taken from the GetBack album)- Carlitta Durand is ready to make her music career official with the release of her new singe 'iCarlI'. Marrying a concoction of jazz, soul and funk Carlitta's unique sound will win her many favours and a fleet of music admires I'm sure. 

Check out her new music video below.

Carlitta Durand - iCarli from Visual High Life on Vimeo


Source: MTV The Wrap Up.

Culture Vulture: Tattooist, Scott Campbell Ventures Into Obscure Art

Scott Campbell has deservedly earned his stripes as a tattooist, so taking the next leap into captivating art was not only expected but was equally well mastered. Currently hosting his debut art show titled 'Noblesse Oblige' in LA, Campbell has elevated his accredited body art skills to abstruse line drawings of skull and Gaul images-whilst at the same times, embarking on laser cutting techniques to create various obscure drawings of the mighty dollar bill.


Scott Campbell also etched a few designs for Loui Vuitton last year, using his laser techniques for the label's  spring/summer menswear bag collection. View Scott's work below.

Source: Who's Jack

I Heart Fashion: Lady Gaga Bares All For I-D Magazine

It is indeed the age of the Gaga. And who'd  be more appropriate to cover the front page of I-D's latest 'Exhibitionist' issue than the queen of nudity herself? 

Adorning a latex Mulgar coat (I patiently await the day that the self professed 'monster'wears anything other than latex) and captured by famed photographer Mariano Vivicano-Lady Gaga may have forgotten her clothes for the magazine issue but who needs clothes when you have I-D?

I Heart Music (Video): Kanye West Performs At SXSW With Surprise Guests

Kanye West took the stage by storm at this years SXSW over the weekend and requested  the likes of mentor, Jay Z and his fellow  G.O.O.D music accomplices Kid Cudi, Pusha T, Big Sean, Cyhi Da Prince, Mos Def and Common to join in on the spectacle.


Roll on SXSW 2012!








Thanks Team!

I Heart Fashion: Simeon Farrar Designs Charity T-Shirts For Japan Appeal

Simeon Farrar has fashioned a limited edition T-shirt  for the Save The Children Japan appeal. Following the country's devastating earthquake and tsunami last week,  the artist turned T-shirt designer has released a Kate Mouse Tee, allowing all and sundry to don his latest design in exchange for a £20.00 donation towards the appeal. 


Speaking to Vogue.co.uk the designer revealed,
"Since I began my label I've had such immense support from the Japanese market and over the years I've forged such strong relationships with our shops and their customers. I was due to fly out to Tokyo this Sunday for a ten-day sales trip but this was cancelled at the last minute due to the deepening crisis following last week's earthquake."


The T-shirts previously drummed up a waiting list of 300 back in December , so I highly recommend you get yours now.
Donate here.


Donate to the Tsunami victims here.


Source: Vogue.co.uk

I Heart Music (Video): Zo! Ft Phonte 'Greater Than The Sun'

Zo! and Phonte are responsible for some of the best sound tracks to my life and their latest collaboration is no exception.' Greater Than The Sun' which is taken from Zo's current album Sun storm- is simply beautiful and Phonte's silky vocals melts over the subdued sound of the piano, which prevails throughout the track.


You know what to do.


Zo! - Greater Than The Sun feat. Phonte | Official Music Video from The Foreign Exchange on Vimeo.

I Heart Music (Video): Janelle Monae Gives A Surprise Performance At SXSW

Anything Janelle Monae related is guaranteed to get spot lighted on MOBG-call it standard protocol. The bright eyed singer gave a surprise performance at the annual Texan SXSW event in replacement of Lupe Fiasco, who was originally meant to share the stage with Wiz Khalifa. You can't help but appreciate the win the win situation of this particular misfortune, you lose Lupe and gain Monae-now that's quality. 


Press play. 



Thanks Team!

Culture Vulture: Brixton Presents Another Lost Child

Beyond the tarnished reputation and the almost customary 'yardie' stereotypes that have become synonymous with the area of which I owe much of my childhood, Brixton still remains as one of the most fascinating and culturally compelling areas in London.
Though it has come a long way, gang culture continues to rare it’s menacing head in the nook of an area rich with diversity and an unrivaled personality.

In 2008 photographer Adam Patterson began an insightful project documenting gangland culture in South London. His aim was to convey the true reality of the frequent misconstrued depiction of gang members represented in the media- visually seizing the “vulnerability and humanity the general public rarely see”. However; what is so inspiring about the exhibition is the brotherly bond Patterson and former gang member Vipoh aka Jean Claude, have surprisingly formed during the photographic journey of Jean’s harrowing story from a previous stab victim, to a  fully fledged photography college graduate, now living in Doncaster.

Presented by the Photofusion Gallery, Another Lost Child is not just an exhibition but a candid reveal of a life, of which many can relate and a humble awakening for those willing to stop and take notice. 

Enjoy.

Another Lost Child will be showing until 25th March. Click here for more information on the exhibition.

I Heart Fashion: Mango Reveals Spring/Summer Collection 2011

Tailored trousers, pastel colours and figure flattering, summer dresses-I guess that's my summer wardrobe  covered.

Adore with caution! 

Source: Who's Jack

I Heart Music (Video): Jamie Woon 'Lady Luck'

Lady Luck is the second single to be taken from Jamie Woon's forthcoming album 'Mirrorwriting', due for release on the 4th April. 

Believe the hype.

Jamie Woon - "Lady Luck" from stereogum on Vimeo.

I Heart Music (Video): MED Ft Talib Kweli 'Classic'

MED partners with Talib Kweli on his new track 'Classic'. Poduced by Karriem Riggins,the title of the song speaks volumes and everything about it (including the video) epitomizes smoothness.

You know what to do.

Source: Pinboardblog

I Heart Musics (News): R.I.P Nate Dogg

Nate Dogg, born Nathaniel D. Hale has died at the age of 41. The news was reported via The Long Beach Press-Telegrams  last night, however the cause of the artist's death is still unknown. The west coast rapper/singer had been in poor  health for sometime when he suffered two strokes, back in 2007 and the other in 2008.


Nate Dogg had one of the most incredibly unique voices that could easily transform a hook of a song into a classic anthem, creating the soundtrack to may of or lives. 



R.I.P Nate Dogg.




Source: Madnewsblog

I Heart Fashion: Rihanna Graces The Front Cover Of Vogue April 2011 Issue

Rihanna confidently flaunts her impeccable figure on the front cover of U.S Vogue's April 2011 issue. Rhi Rhi looks like the perfect red bomb shell as she poses in several pictures for the magazines 10th anniversary shape issue.

Adore with envy or lust, the choice is yours.

Source: The Daily Mail

I Heart Music (News): Jay Z Signs Santogold Gold To Roc Nation

Singer/songwriter Santogold is the latest artist to join the Roc Nation roster. The Philadelphia native  has already worked with Jay Z in the past when she collaborated with him on his track 'Brooklyn We Go Hard' and will be joining the likes of recent signees J Cole, Jay Electronica, K Koke and Willow Smith.


This is great news and future of music continues to shine bright. 


Source: Pressparty

I Heart Fashion: Paris Fashion Week Lust Haves

You have to hand it to the Parisians, they know a thing or two about fashion and lets face it, fashion week would of a lacked a certain je nais se quoi  if it failed to visit the city of love. Despite the negative attention that enthralled Paris fashion week thanks to John Galliano's anti semitic rants and his immediate dismissal from Christan Dior-  the grand Carrousel du Louvre still welcomed and celebrated couture designs by the leading successors in the world of fashion.


Take a look at  my PFW lust haves.

Loui Vuitton's 'fetish couture' A/W 2011  

Chanel A/W 2011

Christian Dior A/W 2011

Vivienne Westwood A/W 2011

The late great Alexandra McQueen A/W 2011

Balmain A/W 2011

Manish-Arora A/W 2011

                                                            

I Heart Music (Video): Jesse Boykins III Ft Melo-X And Trae Harris 'Prototype 3010' (Short Film)

Any artist who should dare to cover Andre 3000's classic track 'Prototype', should know they have a huge challenge on their hands. Jesse Boykins III is definitely the man for the job and his remake of the mammoth futuristic soul track, displays his sensual yet fluid vocals perfectly. Featuring Melo-X and Trae Harris,  Jesse literally takes you on a ultrasonic ride in 'Prototype 3010' and the visuals are just as compelling. 


Speaking on he video Jesse reveals,

" In a time where life is often guided by misconception and tainted love its hard to truly find someone who is there for you for all the right reasons. No matter how you deliver your heart to a person, you still have to wait for them to open it up. I came up with this concept to inspire honesty. I’ve learned through life, communication is everything when you’re in a relationship. Take these visuals as an example of how something could be if there is no truth between two parties. She/He is your prototype and could be so much more if you allow it. Never Take The Love Of Your Believer For Granted. Much Thanks to Andre 3000"


Now press play and enjoy.



Jesse Boykins III | Prototype 3010, a short film from LightUp Film on Vimeo.


Source: Soulculture

I Heart Music (Video): Mos Def Performs First New Single 'World Premier'

Mos Def premiered his new single, fittingly entitled 'World Premier' on the Daily Habit last night. Produced by Madlib, the new track will leave many relieved that all is safe and well in the world of hip hop-me included.


Press play for good music.

BREAKING NEWS: Earthquake And Tsunami Devastates Japan

The fifth most powerful earthquake in history hit Japan yesterday, leaving thousands of people dead. The devastating earthquake measured at a magnitude of 8.9 by the US Geological survey, however, it was the 20ft Tsunami  triggered by the earthquake which engulfed the north-east of Tokyo, claiming even more lives and leaving the final death toll incalculable. Both the earthquake and Tsunami  have left a huge trail of destruction including an explosion which hit a nuclear power station in north-eastern Japan, sparking fears of a possible leak of radioactive material. 


According to the BBC News,

"The tsunami that followed the 8.9-magnitude earthquake wreaked havoc along a huge stretch of on Japan's north-east coast, sweeping far inland and devastating a number of towns and villages. Powerful aftershocks are continuing to hit the region.

The BBC's Damian Grammaticas in the coastal city of Sendai, in Miyagi prefecture, says the scenes of devastation there are astonishing - giant shipping containers have been swept inland and smashed against buildings, and fires are still burning close to the harbour.Police said between 200 and 300 bodies were found in just one ward of the city."  Click here to read more.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Japan.

Source: BBC News 

I Heart Music (Trailer): Beyonce & Alicia Keys 'Put It In A Love Song'

"Better late than never" is a common cliché that often pacifies ones lack of good time management and thus excuses their bad punctuality. However; in the case of Beyonce and Alicia Keys' well overdue video for their collaborative single 'Put It In A Love Song' shot in Brazil- releasing a trailer a year later is bordering on ridiculous or dare I say it a P*** take. Luckily my frustration is restored as the video looks like pure quality.


Lets  hope the rest of the masses are just as forgiving. 


When will the video be released? Your guess is as good as mine.

I Heart Music (Video): Michael Jackson 'Hollywood Tonight'

'Hollywood Tonight' by the late great Michael Jackson depicts the obstacles artist face on their pursuit to Hollywood fame and was shot in the same location (Pantages Theatre) as MJ's 'You Are Not Alone' video.


And the King of pop lives on....

I Heart Music (Video): Pharoahe Monch 'Clap (One Day)

Pharoahe Monch's highly anticipated album 'W.A.R (We Are Renegade)' is shaping up to be something of a classic. Clap (One Day) is Monch's latest offering and is a ten minute short film directed by Terrance Nance which also feature The Wire actor, Gbenga Akinnagbe.


Press Play.

I Heart Fashion: La Femme Bleue By Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani launched their new spring/summer collection, christened La Femme Bleue which champions the labels signature effortless elegance and pays tribute to the ingenuity of the Tuareg Saharan Tribe's- Indigo ropes.

Adore with caution!

Source: Bloginity 

I Heart Fashion (INTERVIEW): Onekana 'Be Seen'

The saying goes “imitation is the best form of flattery”. But a simple compliment could spawn a new creative venture that may have been starring you in the face all along. 

Such is the case for Nicole Johnson; fashion designer and creative founder of clothing and accessories  label-Onekana. 

After receiving a copious amount of “oohs” and “ahhs” on designs that were once an admired projection of her own individual style, Nicole decided it was time to extend her talents beyond the confinement of her own wardrobe. Taking time out of her busy schedule, she talks to MOABG about unique fashion, enhancing pride and confidence  and the incredible need to ‘Be Seen’.

What inspired you to launch your own label?

Creating things at home for myself and family and friends, they would always encourage me to take my craft more seriously and consider it on a business level. I saw that people really liked what I was creating and I started to think-“yeah, I could do this”.  So I went on a short business course and that really gave me the push to actually turn it into a reality.

Where does the name 'Onekana' derive from?

I thought long hard about a name that would really reflect the nature of my products, and 'Onekana' means 'be seen' in Kiswahili.

I was aware of the attention that I got whenever I wore what I call my 'starter shoes' (the first pair I made).  People would pay me compliments, ask where I got them, sometimes just stare - but either way these shoes got noticed, because they stood out and they were different.  Every female loves that feeling when they know they're wearing a hot pair of shoes  that gets acknowledged.  So I thought yes, 'be seen!’  Because really that's what we all want with our personal fashion is to stand out - it's an expression at  and I want my products to invoke that sassy female attitude.

What kind of woman do you envisage when you are a designing a piece of clothing?

Someone who is confident, comfortable with themselves, and isn't afraid to stand out from the crowd.  Trend followers need not apply! Lol

What does the Onekana woman represent?

All of the above, plus a woman who loves fashion and loves Africa.

What are the toughest obstacles you have faced with managing your own design label?

Finance and time management.

What has been the highlight of managing your own label?

The positive response from people.  It's such a beautiful feeling when complete strangers are so appreciative of your work.  That's only topped by seeing someone wearing something that you made and they paid for! I love that - it's so humbling.

 Where do you get your inspiration from?

 The same people who respond positively to me. 

What kind of music or images do you use (if at all) to help put you in a creative mindset?

Reggae music is always playing when I'm in my creative zone.

What advice would you give to those who are about starting  their own business?

Don't rush into it.  Read, research, get some advice, and make sure you're passionate enough about what you're doing.  Because you'll need to the passion to keep up momentum when things may not be going as desired.

What next for Onekana?

Who knows? At the moment it's hard to say as I'm studying at university, so I don't have as much time as I’d like to commit to the business.  But as with any endeavour growth is always desired, so I'll just say progress.

Be sure to check out the Onekana website for more exclusive designs. 

I Heart Fashion: Christian Louboutin Reveal Biarritz Leather Flat Shoe

Christian Louboutin welcomed their new Biarritz Leather Flat shoe, to its highly favored shoe collection. Baring resemblance to both the loafer and the deck shoe, the new edition has more of a classic aesthetic typical of the brands renowned style. Costing a mere £492, hopefully we'll be seeing less men fall victim to the flip flop and sock epidemic.

I Heart Music (Video): Yasmin 'Finish Line'

Singer Yasmin has drummed up a lot of excitement over the past year and her new single 'Finish Line', produced by Labrinth is bound to elevate her music profile even further.

I Heart Music (Video): Gil Scott Heron Ft Jamie XX 'Running'

Powerful...

I Heart Music (Audio): Introducing Nikko Gray

Have you ever listened to a piece of music that triggers a mud slide of good memories to the forefront of your mind? If not, there's a few artists that I'd like to  put you in the direction of who often inspire these rare moments- one of them being Nikko Gray. 


As a London bred singer currently residing in Los Angeles, Nikko makes the kind of music that instantly sucks you into a quirky soulful abyss, however,  it's the honesty and love that she pours into her music that quickly captures your attention within seconds of pressing play. In spring of last year  the singer released her debut Love Scene with eight tracks designed for Sunday afternoon air play. Now she returns with her new single 'Beautiful You Are', which is rather fitting seen as the song is just that, beautiful.


Press play and get acquainted.
'Beautiful You Are'


'Love Scene' EP


P.s. 'Eyelash Wishes' is a definite MUST play. That's all.

Parlour Magazine

I Heart Fashion: A Bathing Ape Launch New Suiting Collection

Japanese apparel, A Bathing Ape has extended its empire of ubber cool clothing and has entered into the realms of  fine tailoring with the release of the clothing label's first suave suiting line,'Mr Bathing Ape'. Inspired by the highest caliber of tailors that Saville Row has to offer, founder  Nigo's new collection  is available to buy and admire, exclusively at Mr Porter now.


Pharrell will be pleased.


Source: Dazed Digital