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Kanye West, "My Beautiful, Dark Twisted Fantasy" Album Review
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"I guess every superhero needs his theme music" - Kanye West
1997. Victory. Biggies most potent verse ever recorded. With Puff Daddy by his side, Mr Wallace was @ the apex of his career. Crushing his competition with a ease, BIG dominated the track and laid the foundation for the Bad Boy legacy to carry on after his demise. His label were the undisputed champions of hits and he was the reigning MVP. Fast forward to 2010 and we find Kanye West in a similar position. The most recognized name in Hip Hop and universally loved or hated, he has collected every award, accolade and recognition imaginable. After 3 stellar hip hop releases (College Dropout, Late Registration, Graduation) and a trend setting, emo-rap experiment (808's and Heartbreak), most would assume that Mr. West has nothing else to prove......we were wrong.
Eye Candy: Rocsi Diaz
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Nicki Minaj, "Pink Friday" album review
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This record review will surely differ from the countless others you'll be reading or reading about in the next couple weeks. Instead of breaking down the album to its basic elements ( production, guest apperances, etc) or dissecting each single, I will instead give you an overall analysis of the most important hiphop album release from a female artist since "The miseducation of Lauren Hill" Pink Friday is not the album I expected from Nicki Minaj. After stumbling on her 1st mixtape "Playtimes over", I anticipated a record filled with profanity, materialism, raunchy sexipodes and drug refferrences. I was wrong. When she signed with Young Money and adopted her "Barbie" persona, I prepared myself for radio friendly pop anthems and an inflated guest list. I was wrong again. Instead, Pinky Friday is filled with witty lyrics, humour, introspection and aggression. With a solid balance of street hop joints, teen choice favorites and experimental cuts, Nicki has created a credible blueprint for young femcees to follow. She has decided focus less on sex, drugs and shopping and candidly discusses her past, present and future with a diverse flow and flawless comedic timing. Nicki is far from perfect, and her critics will question her vocal chords, production choices and image. But when it comes to moving the crowd with confidence, poise and style, she has earned the right to wear the crown.....
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Toronto Gun Life, 2010
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A headline is worth a thousand words. But, how many lives must we lose until we address the senseless violence that plagues our community? Year after year its the same story: a young black male in the wrong place @ the wrong time. Mothers crying into news reporters microphones. Friends claiming "he was a good kid". Neighbours shocked that it happened in their "quiet" neighbourhood.
Who's responsible? Who should take the blame? You, me, him or her? Well, if you ask me: We all should. From the parents who are ignorant to their childs shady behaviour to the guys who fear the local thugs to the girls who shower them with affection. We are all responsible. In 2011, instead of blaming the media, movies, television or music, ask yourself a simple question: what have I done to prevent gun violence?
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Mobilicity Kicks A$$ (Rogers, Bell & Telus should take notes...)
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This is dedicated to everyone suffering under a ridiculous cellphone contract imposed on us by the "Big 3": Rogers, Bell and Telus. Ive recently ended my long, stressful relationship with Rogers and am officially on the Mobilicity bandwagon. With no contract involved, I've signed up for possibly the GREATEST cellphone plan available: Unlimited everything!
North American calls, Data, Blackberry Internet, Global texting, picture/text/video messaging, Call waiting, Call forwarding, 3 way calling, Caller Id...etc. All for the ridiculous monthly fee of $39.55 (tax included). Yup, that's all. This is not a 3month, 6month or 1 year promo...as Drake would say, "It's Forever"
So, spread the word and lets tell these phone companies to go _____ themselves in 2011.
Click here ----> Mobilicity to find all compatible phones.
Scarlett Johansson on the cover of GQ Magazine
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Meet my celebrity crush! Celebrating her 26th birthday in style, Scarlett Johansson graces the cover of my favorite mag, looking sultry, sexy and gorgeous. The article is brief, but mentions her recent critically acclaimed broadway run for "View from the Bridge". Eye candy aside, Scarletts ability to avoid publicity stunts and relationship drama set her apart from her mid 20's Hollywood peers. Clothes, gadgets and toys! Merry Christmas for GQ mag!
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Nike Dunk Hi (Deep Garnet)
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As I sloooowly transition from high tops to hard bottoms, I find it increasing difficult not to indulge my sneaker fetish. So, as you can imagine, I nearly had an orgasmic moment when I came across these beauties. Courtesy of Sneaker Freaker , the Nike Dunk Hi is a perfect blend of grey suede and Deep Garnet canvas combined with a two-tone midsole. Hmmm, nothing sweeter than a new pair of kicks....
The Rulers Back...
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It feels good to be wanted. To be desired. To Loved and to be missed. Sometimes you need to be reminded of just how important you are. How valuable your contribution to society is. Ok, enough of the melodramatics: I'm back! Like Michael Jordan fresh off the baseball field....like Jay-Z walking out of his plush executive chair. Did you miss me? Probably not, lol. With a billion blogs to choose from, you've probably been whoring around the net for the past few months! I don't blame you though. I know I left you stranded and alot has happened since my exile: From Jay-Z beefing with Hammer to Beyonce baby rumors. We have a new Mayor in Toronto. Weezys coming home and T.I.'s headed back up state. Yup there's alot going on, kids. So pull up a chair, sit back and enjoy....
"This time its for the money, my ni**a"- JayZ
What's in your Ipod: Mood Muzik 4 by Joe Budden...
0 commentsI've always liked Joe Budden. He represents the best (and sometimes worst) that Hip hop has to offer. He refuses to conform to societies expectations and even challenges his own loyal fan base to look bellow the surface. His Mood Muzik series have been exquisite examples of lyricism, creativity and blunt honesty. Enjoy his latest installment.
Whats in your IPOD: Rick Ross The Summer Is Mine
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I know I might be a lil late with this one...for my Ricky Rozay fans.
RnB Lounge: Aaliyah Dana Haughton (January 16, 1979 – August 25, 2001)
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She is the standard of excellence for Modern R&B stars. Beyonce, Ciara and countless others can contribute a considerable amount of their commercial success to the blueprint she created. Beauty. Grace. Intelligence. Talent. Aaliyah's legacy lies much deeper than the number of albums she sold or movies she starred in. It was her uncompromising integrity and ambitious commitment to deliver quality projects to her loyal fans that has endeared her to us to this day. No sextapes. No legal issues. No publicity stunts. When I think of Aaliyah, one word seems to exemplify her character: Class.
We miss you...
Sneaks: 2011 Air Jordan 1's (women)
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Despite popular belief, I do actually have quite a few female fans who come thru to checkout my chic fashion choices. So today, Ive got a special preview of the 2011 Air J 1's for ladies. Available @ Citysole.com.... Enjoy:
Pardon The Interruption...
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Ladies and Gentleman, please forgive me! In my day to day battle with the Matrix I've suffered a damaging blow: no home Internet! So, hold tight kids. Your President has not been impeached! They can't stop my shine! I'll be broadcasting periodically from a secret location until further notice....For those of you who are new to Graffiti Written, run thru the Label archives and enjoy our past work. To my twitter crew, send me a bird @jaypresident.
The Saga Continues...
Kanye West, "Power"- The Lyrical Gems...
0 commentsI've read alot of comments debates and theories regarding Kayne's epic "Power" video. Instead of expressing my interpretation of the images projected, Id rather encourage you (the viewer) to WATCH the video, READ the lyrics, THEN do your homework....
[Verse 1 - Kanye West]
I'm living in that 21st century
Doing something mean to it
Do it better than anybody you've ever seen do it
Scream from the haters, got a nice ring to it
I guess every superhero needs his theme music
[Chorus – Kanye West]
No one man should have all that power
The clock's ticking, I just count the hours
Stop tripping I'm tripping off the power
(21st Century Schizoid Man)
[Verse 2 - Kanye West]
The system broken, the school closed, the prison opened
We ain't got nothing to lose, Ma'fucka we rolling
Huh? Ma'fucka we rolling
There's some light skinned girls and some Kelly Rowlands
In this white mans' world, we the ones chosen
So goodnight cruel world, I see you in the morning
Huh? I see you in the morning
This is way too much, I need a moment
[Chorus – Kanye West]
No one man should have all that power
The clocks ticking
I just count the hours
Stop trippin I'm tripping off the power
Til then, fuck that, the world's ours
And then they (Go)
And then they
And then they (Go)
And then they (21st Century Schizoid Man)
[Verse 3 - Kanye West]
Fuck S N L and the whole cast
Tell them Yeezy said they can kiss my whole ass
More specifically, they can kiss my asshole
I'm an asshole, you niggas got jokes
You short-minded niggas thoughts is Napoleon
My is furs is Mongolian, my ice brought the goalies in
Now I embody every characteristic of the egotistic
He know, he so, fucking gifted
I just needed time alone with my own thoughts
Got treasures in my mind, but couldn't open up my own vault
My childlike creativity, purity and honesty
Is honestly being crowded by these grown thoughts
Reality is catching up with me
Taking my inner child, I'm fightin for custody
But these responsibilities that they entrust in me
As I look down at my dia-mond-encrusted piece thinking
[Chorus – Kanye West]
Verse 4
Hova, Powers, Austin, Powers
Lost in translation with a whole fucking nation
They say I was the abomination of Obama's nation
Well that's a pretty bad way to start a conversation
At the end of the day, Goddamnit I'm killing this shit
I know damn well y'all feeling this shit
I don't need your pussy bitch, I'm on my own dick
I ain't got to power trip, who you going home with?
How 'Ye doin? I'm surviving
I was drinking earlier now I'm driving
Where the bad bitches, huh? Where ya hiding?
I got the power make your life so exciting
[Outro – Kanye West & Dwele] x3
Now this will be a beautiful death
Dropping out the window
I'm letting everything go
I'm letting everything go
You got the power the let power go?
Tech Toys: BlackBerry Curve 3G is coming to T-Mobile...
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*Research In Motion (RIM) has announced the launch of their latest Blackberry model, the BlackBerry Curve 3G. The new smartphone is designed to support high-speed 3G (HSDPA) networks. In the U.S., the two wireless networks which use HSDPA include AT&T and T-Mobile USA, but it looks like T-Mobile will be the first to get the new BlackBerry.
On To The Next One: 2011 Fashion Preview: nOir Jewelry, Melissa Shoes, Rock & Republic
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Its damn near impossible to stay on top whats poppin in the world of fashion these days. Even with the abundance of media outlets focusing on the latest and hottests, its still takes effort to stay ahead of the curve. Thanx to my people @ Dr. Jays, Ive got a few exclusive pics of the 2011 collections from nOir Jewelry, Melissa Shoes, Rock & Republic and more...
Monday Morning Brunch (Juice, Bagel and Hip Hop)....
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Nine to five is how to survive, I ain't trying to survive I'm trying to live it to the limit and love it alive. - Jay Z
Whether you're sitting @ your desk, reading my blog on your IPHONE 4 or Blackberry or checking your email before you leave the house, we all share a common bond. The desire to be successful. To fulfill our potential and leave our mark. Unfortunately, the responsibilities of adulthood seem to rob us of our youthful exuberance. Work. Pay bills. Repeat. Like my favorite MC once said, "Its an everyday struggle".
Today, instead of focusing on record sales, or who has the hottest video or the biggest ass (grown or purchased), I like to take a moment and recognize those who defied the odds, the naysayers and self doubt. Those who stepped outside of the box to attain something more valuable than money and fame...Flip the page to learn about 3 up and coming authors who are achieving a different type of "success"
A Letter From The President...
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In case you didn't know...Im ILL....BLAH...BLAH....
Have a Great Weekend!
Jay President....
Friday Hip Hop Report (Wyclef 4 Prez, Obie Trice owes IRS, Fat Joe sells 12k)
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Ahhhh...Friday! There's nothing sweeter than the end of week. Especially after taking Monday off to recover from a hectic Carribana weekend. Im loving the new music from The Roots, Eminem and Rick Ross. Nicki Minaj announced the title of her debut album, "Pink Friday" and Wale dropped one of the nicest mixtape /street albums of the year "More about Nothing". So, whats good in the Hip Hop world this week? Flip the page for the latest...
Tdot Shoebox: LACOSTE STEEL RACQUET
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Lacoste release a collection of four heritage sneakers inspired by the steel tennis racquet invented by René Lacoste himself in 1963. Each style feature a mix of metallic leather, mesh or reflective material that's contrasted by brown leather details that replicate a racquet grip. Peep the video campaign that recently dropped on YouTube to coincide with the release here.
RnB Lounge: Trey Songz
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I haven't always been a fan of male R/B singers. To be honest, I labeled most as "soft" or just full of shit. Trey Songs, however, is cut from a different mold. With a swagger similar to your favorite MC and an ever growing catalog of hits, Trey has emerged from the shadows of his peers (Chris Brown, Omarion, Usher)and is a bonafide star. Check out his bio and few of his standout clips...
Short Story: "Living With Regrets" :(chapter 1) Night Time Vultures...
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As my lungs fill with blood, I gasp and realize that I've enhaled my last breath. The air escapes thru the burning holes his hollow tip shells left in my chest. Coughing up blood as I exhale, the street lights seem to hum my lullaby.
My blood soaked Danier leather is my blanket and this cold Spadina curb is my pillow. No...not tonight! Not like this! "Cindy!!", I yell, getting weaker by the second. She can't hear me...no one can.
My voice is muted by the sweet silence of death. As I reach out and accept the angels extended hand, my mind flickers...images, voices, sirens, tears...Cindy...she's here, but I'm not....
Eye Candy: Ashley Graham
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The Gorgeous Ashley Graham is one of the hottest Plus Size models on the market. Recently featured in a Lane Bryant commercial that was considered too "controversial" for ABC & FOX, her stock has continued to rise. Checkout a few exclusive pics and her much talked about TV ad.
Yes, shes a bad bitch....
Tech Toys: Space Invader Couch
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If you were asked to describe the aliens from the classic video game, Space Invaders, the words that come to mind would probably be “dangerous,’ “tenacious,” and perhaps “organized.”
Designer Igor Chak has come up with a concept piece of furniture that any classic video game player would love to have in their living room or game room. This Space Invader Couch, according to Igor, would be covered with black leather in addition to a couple of glass surfaces for added flair. The couch would also be stuffed with memory foam to keep your posterior happy during those long video game sessions.
No word on when this couch will actually hit the market as Igor is currently looking for a company to help bring his Space Invader Couch to retail. You can probably bet if it does, the price will be on the expensive side like most unique furniture. Still – it looks awesome!
*courtesy of Doug Osbourne (Geek.com)*
My City: Caribana 2010, pt.1
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Are you Serious: Pervert Caught Taking Upskirt Photos At The Grocery Store! [Surveillance Cam Footage]
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My City: Proper Reserve (Queen Street West) #Toronto
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When I'm looking for that "oh shyt" sneaker or "WTF" T-shirt, there's no hotter strip than Queen Street in Toronto. Hip Hop entrepreneur Brendan McCabe runs PROPER RESERVE, an exclusive, downtown boutique catering to street culture and TDOT's everlasting underground scene. Here are a few choice pics
Are You Serious: Jay-Z (feat. John Mayer) - Lebron Is Gone [Affion Crockett Spoof]
0 commentsYeah, Im still pissed that Lebron didnt come to NY, but I've got a great sense of humor and this clip really cheered me up...
This....is the Remix!!
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Hey guys, I know ya'll been wondering whats happening with Graffiti Written. Well, to be honest, I'm still grieving over LBJ's decision to join the New World Order down in Miami...UGH!! I've also been on a lil vacation, enjoying Toronto's latest heatwave. I'm thinking about revamping the site and hitting ya"ll with more articles and original content. In the meantime, enjoy some of the latest kicks, mixtapes and videos. I'll be back on my grind inna minute. Peace.
Lebron James: Empire State of Mind
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Are You Serious: Top 5 Worst HipHop Tats EVER...
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Some of these Tats just left me speechless. I love Hip-Hop, but I'll be damned if Im gonna but an MC's name or likeness of my body....
Get Fresh: NIKE AIR MAX LEBRON VIII SAMPLE
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This Nike Air Max LeBron VIII sample has been causing a massive stir on sneaker blogs the world over, not so much for the fact that there is no inkling of when it will drop, but more so because it still bears LeBron's LB23 logo. It's a well known fact that as a free agent LeBron has signed paperwork enabling him to denounce his famous twenty-three in favour of the number six, which graced his back at the most recent Olympics. The mystery surrounding this drop and Lebron's digits has die hard b-ball heads bouncing, so for now, sit back and enjoy these fly(wire) images courtesy of LRG23.com
New On DVD - "Brooklyn's Finest"
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Although it came out to mixed reviews I really enjoyed this movie. The acting was superb and the storyline contained just enough plot twists to keep me on the edge of my seat (very cliche', I know). Buy it...don't burn it (Its 2010, bootlegs are WACK).
My Long Weekend, Get Fresh Guide...
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Whether you live North of the border (Canada Day!) or South (Independance Day), you're probably gonna be hitting up your local beach, family BBQ or local patio this weekend. Here are a few dope looks to refresh your summer steez...
Exclusive Kicks: NIKE AUTO TRAINER
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Now this is a banger! In all its grape glory, the Nike Auto Trainer screams '90s b-ball at its best. With vulcanised soles, purp pops and emerald green uppers all you need now is to make sure your high top fade is tight and you're ready to bounce. Thanks to HB for the heads up and Wish ATL for the images. Available now.
(video) Top Ten Plays of the 2010 NBA Finals....
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Listen up fellas (and ladies) I gotta be honest: I'm still suffering from withdrawal....damn I need some NBA Action. For those of you that can relate, checkout the top plays from this years Finals...November will be here soon!!
My City: Freshness From LIVESTOCK...
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The Best of the 2010 #BET Awards...#AliciaKeys, #KanyeWest, #NickMinaj, #Drake, #ChrisBrown, #DirtyMoney)
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Chris Brown Gets Emotional...
Are You Serious: #G20 Madness hits #Toronto
0 commentsThe streets of Toronto turned into a warzone last weekend as G20 protesters, militants and citizens clashed with police. I won't give my personal opinion on who was right/wrong during any of these altercations. I'll let the clips speak for themselves...
Inauguration day...My Presidential Address...
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You never get a second chance to make a 1st impression. For some, its either a hit or miss. Love at first sight. 15 minutes of fame. In the Hip Hop blogsphere, Graffiti Written is one of a million sites competing for your attention. Most are trash, some are inspiring and others toil in obscurity.
Welcome to Independence Day. Monday, June 28th, 2010. This blog is for the sneaker collector, who gets a rush off the scent of a new pair of dead stock "unavailable in stores" kicks. This blog was created for Hip Hop, the desire for intelligent coverage of our music, politics and culture. This blog is dedicated to everyone with a fashion forward state of mind. Most importantly, it is dedicated to you. You're the reason everything that you see and read on this site is possible. I thank you for your support and will strive to continue to deliver quality content with a sense of humor and a Toronto twist.
I want to take a moment and recognize 3 people who made this blog possible:
Special K: Thank you for motivating me to do what I love doing. This site wouldnt exist without you. You mean the world to me
Leah (Bombsteez.com): Thank you for building this remarkable blog for me, from scratch. Your talent is limitless and I cant wait to see what else you have in store.
Tay'Lanee: Your writing skills are amazing. Thanx for all your support. Youre a Boston Celtics fan, but I wont hold that against you...lol
To anyone who I failed to recognize, hold tight...I aint getting impeached anytime soon, lol
Peace!
Toronto...Forever...
Casual Friday Kicks: ETNIES X CALLOWAY X CHOCOLATE
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Devine Calloway is bringing etnies and Chocolate skateboards together for the brand’s first joint project! This royal blue mid-top beauty is offset with a red and yellow ankle flash, with graphics inspired by none other than 70s P-Funk stars – Parliament. There's a board as well. Time to 'Get up for the Downstroke', but only in your finer skate shops.
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