Grrrr >_< !!

One thing I can't stand is people who show no regard for other people's time. Why schedule a meeting with someone and then make that person wait, unnecessarily, for 30 minutes...this is the business world. Be a little more professional.

I'm to the point where i want to change the blog name to "I'm b!tching again!" haha

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oh man! I wish this dude would JUST!

Hi again!

I'm so excited to see all my fellow RGCers back at it haha...

So for those who don't know, I'm currently working at a VERY dysfunctional but highly comfortable and exciting music company. Sounds pretty interesting, and ... it is! *oh, did I mention I'm egregiously underpaid :-) :-)!?! (Cue the minority frat brothers chanting "BROKE, BROKE, BROKE, PHI, BROKE!")

In the last month alone I've produced a national commercial for a major car distributor, which is currently still on air, and found music for a number of other TV spots. But alas, I'm sure you've had enough of my vanity, haha. My life is still a mess in many regards:

My boss is...nice, but COMPLETELY and UTTERLY distracted by his gold-digging mistress. He has all kinds of financial troubles and has the tendency to screw people over when it comes to business and money. So yep - that's the man I'm trusting with my professional future, haha!

Biggest news though is that I'm part of a team that's launching a new music online community that's entirely devoted to indie and up-and-coming artists. The idea was spawned by a coworker and myself, and my boss fell in love with it. For the last six months we've been building a somewhat monstrous and potentially very lucrative website of which I am part owner = more excitement.

There's been lots of issues and drama though. And I am drained...the site just needs to go up already. Originally, I was planning on letting you guys in on all the MAJOR turmoil and just idiocy I put up with daily, but just thinking about it makes me gag. You'll often find me in the office rolling my eyes like they're on a cross-country road trip and mumbling things like "just shoot me...in the face" "I'm done with this" "they're just dumb" "can't stand this mess"...smh.

In any case, would post a link to the site, but that wouldn't really go well with the whole alias thing I have going on. I also don't want my boss to find this blog...even though I've shown it to him a NUMBER of times lol. Read more...

It's Alive...?...!

Guys, it's been forever... I know!

Sorry. I'm currently at work, which is a good thing, but I've been neglecting the very thing that got me the "mostly great" job I have at the moment.

Details to come, but I just wanted to tell you that I'm alive and well. Maybe still broker than I want to be...but alive and well.

Cheers

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Kanye West Interrupts Taylor Swift at the VMAs!

Watch and let us know what you think! Was Kanye a Jerk or Justified in taking the mic from Taylor Swift and saying Beyonce should have won? Give us some replies! The 2009 VMAs on MTV are crazy!

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Internet Withdrawal - I'm Scared o_O

Guys, as of this moment I have 14 minutes of internet and computer access left for the entire night! It's 7:48 on Tuesday evening, and I foolishly left my computer power chord at work.

What am I going to do?

Funny thing is, this will probably be the most productive night I've had in a really long time. I'll actually have time and no distractions from cleaning, putting things in drawers, writing lyrics, and more. So why am I dreading this experience? I'm steadily looking at my battery meter and the fear of the unknown is growing and GROWING!

Dang, how attached have I - have we - become to these random buttons and screens. I can't believe I'm to the point where 5 waking hours without internet communication is a fearful...maybe not fearful...but EXTREMELY undesirable experience. *T minus 12 minutes* There was a time just over 6 years ago when I was online by choice for all of 2 hours on an "excessive" night! I can hear the AOL phone dialing now *sigh*

I'm trying to get my Twitter fix for the night now. Fortunately I can check email on my phone...I'll probably do that a good 7 times. SMH @ ME! I'm addicted to Internet connection. I wonder if I'll experience any side effects from my withdrawal. Hmm:

-Restful night
-Energized for tomorrow
-Eat and what an entertaining show
-Do something music related tonight (write, practice piano, a *YOU ARE RUNNING ON RESERVE BATTERY POWER - 0:09 minutes*

Oh well! Let me get off this thing and accept my fate. I have to make my way back to Twitter for a few more minutes and then it's Blackout time. Keep me in your prayers, haha.

Be Well,

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My Job and Me... REALLY? A JOB?!

Take my absence and recent silence on this blog as a good thing; it only means I'm preoccupied by things I clearly value.

On Monday of this past week I began working as an intern for a Music licensing and branding firm in NY. This firm has the HOOK UP, and has placed and licensed music for some of the biggest commercials and TV spots out there. Obviously, me being a music lover, I'm more that ecstatic to have such a role, and the fact that it will likely evolve into a full-time position makes it even better.

My duties include maintaining the music library, reaching out to and scouting new talent to bring on board, and conversing with major advertisers and managers about partnerships - Could this be more ideal for me!? Well, yes, it could be. It'd be awesome to receive a full salary and benefits, BUT I can't and won't complain. I'm getting my lunches paid for, all my travel is covered by the company, I get a weekly monetary stipend, and I get free entry to a lot of the exclusive music events in and around the city.

There are definitely issues with the company, and it is not as perfect as it sounds; however, I have faith that this is happening for a reason, and I am going to fulfill my duties with 200% of my ability. I'm already the CEO's "go-to" person, and he's entrusted me with a TON of secrets concerning his personal and business drama. I don't care. I'm taking this experience and running with it. At the very least, my foot is in the door at a very reputable music institution, and my boss will likely write me an amazing recommendation.

In addition to this good news, I've also been doing LOTS of public showcases and shoving my fears to the side. I've sung at open mics 3 times in the past two weeks, and just yesterday I opened up for a 3-act comedy set in NJ. The audience loved me, and I was extremely pleased with my sound and comfort on stage. I'll be singing again publicly either Sunday or Monday, so I'll continue giving you all updates.

All I can do is thank God for patience and trust that he is guiding me even when I feel like I'm lost in the dark.

Be well, and keep dreaming Read more...

Baggage

There's too much baggage on my shoulders. It's digging into me and fast.

Is it strange that emotional baggage can become a crutch? The person I feud with the most just came to me asking me to put everything out on the table. I know, or suspect however, that if I divulged the reasons for my persistent bitterness & conflict, that person's world would come crashing down (...that is, if they actually listened to and received what I was saying).

I pray so often that our relationship would get better, but everyday I'm reminded of why I feel so negatively. Whether it's the cold past, the past fused with the present obliviousness, or the expectation that the future will be more of the same...I don't know. I just can't seem to get to where I need to be with this person - a positive place. And after years of being so internally angry, I actually fear what an open and positive relationship would be like. Bitterness has become my terrible comfort zone.

Well, I realized today that I hold the key to making our relationship rise or fail miserably. I have two options:

A) I lay all my baggage out for that person to see. They'll likely be so hurt and devastated by the reality, which is so obvious (and thus more damaging), that their spirit will be broken. But in the end, they'll know exactly what they need to change so that we can move forward. Essentially, my confession is the ignition to get our relationship moving...

B) I continue being an emotional martyr. Maybe I'm masochistic, but despite the intense residual disdain from the past (and present) experiences, I don't want to break down the person. Ultimately, I do care for them, and I don't believe I'm spiteful enough to knowingly cause them pain... no matter how temporary.

I could easily stall on choosing my path...except I can't. Because TIME is not on anyone's side. You never know what the next second holds, and a moment's delay could mean a lifetime of regret.

What do I do? The person I call myself sparing is telling me I'm "torturing" them. They say they can and want to take the brutal truth, but who's to say they really can?

It's true when they say all good things have a price. If only I could make the right choice.

Be well,

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Disney - A Stripper's Tale

Go Britney!
Go Lindsay!
Go Miley!
Go Vanessa! x2!

Since Disney loves producing our nation's next teen idols, I think it would be great if Disney's next flick was a documentary on the lives of its well-bred, corn-fed, underaged, singing and dancing talents. I mean look at the good Disney is doing! Because of this company's time tested program of isolation, exploitation, and expectation, "normal" children are being inspired to sing cute songs (Britney's "I'm a Slave"), act (Miley's acclaimed role as a young Asian girl), and dance (Lindsay's pole tumbling is 5 star apparently?).

Also, Disney's doing wonders for accelerating America's acceptance of very open, honest, and documented sexuality. Thanks to Disney child idols, the female anatomy is no longer a mystery to 6 year old boys. And forget what Mom always said about not walking "out the house without clean underwear on!" Heck, if our rich Disney idols have taught us anything, it's "why wear underwear in the first place?!"

Question: Was Melissa Joan Heart a Disney kid? If so, we've all seen what becomes of the ones who CHOOSE NOT to conform with Disney's strict regimen of lewd public behavior - their careers and social capital start plummeting fast.  Thank goodness Christina Aguilera found the delicate balance between social decency (celebrity suicide) and Disney Rawness (Fame and fortune)!

Hmm, I guess...now that I think about it, this documentary would have an "X" rating. That may not work....no, probably not.

Well, fortunately we don't have to worry! Even without an official Disney documentary, we'll always have E! News, Entertainment Tonight, The Soup, Wendy Williams, and Chelsea Lately to keep us updated on the latest cultural trends inspired by Disney students and alums.

I wonder what the next wave/craze will be. Since leaked nude cell phone pics and exposed VJs are quickly becoming SO last year, maybe Disney kids will start publicly masturbating? Hey, it would do wonders for pent up teen angst, right?

Thanks Disney!

BEFORE DISNEY - PLAIN JANE:         AFTER - MEET "CANDY":

*so glad I didn't have cable growing up* Read more...

Give us Free! Give us FREE!...wait, no!

If I ever hear the word "freelance" again!

Thanks for telling me how great I am and offering me employment! 

...What? Oh, my bad. Really? I'm going to have to wait around for you to call me at random so that I can work and make money....hmm.  Well, am I guaranteed a certain amount of work? No?

Well, are there benefits? No?

Q: Okay, so basically I'm unemployed still?  

A: You're great! but this position will allow you the FREEDOM to explore additional opportunities!  You'll be working FREElance so you'll have a ton of freedom in addition to a great job.

Hold it - I'm still going to be broke past 2 or even 4 weeks from now with this "job," right?

Then wamp wamp wamp.  I'm happy I was given an offer, but SURELY you realize this is not exactly life-changing news...at all?

Company X, take a risk!  Invest in the new, inexperienced talent that is knocking at your door - tested and approved with FLYING COLORS.   Forget the darn recession and take on a new worker who could help drive a new system for your old institution.  We all know where the old has gotten you thus far.

...Well, thanks for letting me know that I'm FREElance.  Free to be financially unstable, medically in danger, and have my resume look like cow manure.  :-\

Be well,  

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ALL PRAISE TO SS - While I Issue an SOS

Let's begin this blog by praising the one consistent poster on this site,  at the moment -= Southern Substance. Being completely honest with you all, for the past two weeks I have been very preoccupied with applications, phone interviews, and just mental anxiety. As you all know, I really need a legitimate job that will allow me to grow professionally. Stagnation just isn't my thing.

Well, 2 weeks ago, I went to a career fair that really had some exciting prospects. Two of the companies I met with have since shown interest in my job applications, and I have been struggling trying to keep the slightest sense of internal serenity and sanity as I await the outcome. I want to explode you all! To go THIS LONG without anything official just bores away at the soul of a man (as it would with a woman, I'm sure...you see, I'm so anxious that I'm typing in politically correct stream of consciousness: a testament to my newfound ADD).

Well here's the deal, today, MONDAY, I potentially hear back from an exciting job prospect about my candidacy (not guaranteed to hear today, but the email said possibly). Today, MONDAY, I also have a 2nd round phone interview with a BIG consumer retail corporation for a position that PAYS but is something I'd NEVER EVER considered. Both opportunities are exciting and uncommon, and I WILL (I REPEAT WILL) JUMP at and attach myself to either one, just like an unloved stepchild would to a kind stranger.

You have no idea what thoughts are raging through my head. I can't do anything these days - clean, write songs, email, apply for new jobs, blog, go out - ANYTHING, because I'm paralyzed with anxiety. This is the closest I've come to hope being realized in a while, and I am beyond impatient to know the outcome - good or bad.

Wish me luck! I'll update you guys either way regarding the responses I hear. Hopefully your professional lives are not nearly as precarious as mine. AAH, I just want to scream and blurt out to the world how exciting these two opportunities are!

But alas, patience and discretion are virtues. No really, I just need a job haha. Hope you're holding up wherever you are and whatever you're going through.

Be well, Read more...

Chris Brown Apologizes

Breaking news! Chris Brown has released a public video apology for the February assault on singer Rihanna. Rihanna's name was mentioned outright in the video and he expresses remorse for the night that changed his life and career in a very real way. Do you believe he is being genuine? Are you ready to forgive him? Do we as 3rd party fans/spectators even need this apology? Will or should his career rebound? Let us know what you think!

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Pink Slip Avoidance Tips

As recent grads, we aren’t necessarily given the pick of the litter when it comes to jobs. A third of us are unemployed, half of us can’t stand the jobs we’re in, and the remaining 17% might actually be content with our current employment. No matter which category you fall under, chances are you want to know, perhaps need to know, how to stay afloat and employed amidst the pandemic layoffs.

Question: How do I avoid a pink slip when the recession comes to collect its quota from my employer?

Answer: Where there’s a will there’s a way! When it comes to business, forget all that you’ve learned about merit and work ethic. GONE. You’ve got to be savvy.

1. Relationships – Get into the “it” crowd. You know, the group of coworkers who actually are friends with the boss? Yes, the people who, although not in management, still know all the company gossip and everyone’s performance stats. Get to know them and be friendly. The closer you are to the power hub, the less likely you are to be axed. You’re anonymity will be lost, but the newfound fickle bond you have with management may become the difference between employed you and fired Sally.

2. B to B+ performance – The key to success in today’s economy is endurance. Even if you hate your job, you want to survive the layoffs just so you don’t have to face the impossible odds many of your peers are dealing with. At the same time, this doesn’t mean you need to perform like the cum laude, valedictorian student you once were/hoped to be. In fact, doing that is a sure fire way to get burned out or randomly self-compelled to quit. If you demonstrate a desperation to keep your job/willingness to do anything, your company will likely exploit you. Remember, there’s still lots of work to be done even if people are being fired. Resist the urge to go too far above and beyond. Nonetheless, work at a level just a few steps above mediocrity so that your value will be recognizable.

3. You & Your Company 4 Life – One of the initial ways employers shed weight during layoffs is disposing of the temporary, “no intention of advancing” employees who work just for the check. They have no long-term career plans with the company. If you find a way to communicate a desire (whether wholehearted or fabricated) to rise through the corporate employment ranks, your words may end up becoming your salvation.

Now these three points are only suggestions. There is no guarantee that if used they will prevent you from joining the throngs of Monster.com faithfuls. Consider them carefully before use. Read more...

Backtracking Businesses & Gon' Postal Applicants

I have a great feeling about this week.  It SEEMS like the universe is finally responding to my more positive energy & outlook on my... situation.  Today I woke up to a legitimate personal reply to an application I'd sent out this past Friday.

I'd applied for a bunch of openings and was excited to read that a top PR firm wanted me to come in and interview for a position.  As I read the email, I tried to recall exactly what the position was so I did a backtrack Google search only to find that my excitement was about an UNPAID internship. "Okay," I thought, "It's a new experience for the resume and potentially a gateway position."  Two hours later, I get an email from the same PR firm saying "We apologize, but we've just found out the position has already been filled internally."

WAMP WAMP WAMP!  HR - get it together.

I shrugged this off because, after all, it was an UNPAID internship, and I would have lost a ton of money (that I don't have) traveling to and from the city.

After moving on and sending out a few more applications, I get an email from another potential employer.  This time it's from a music production company that is holding auditions for... "unknown."  They're apparently looking for contemporary singers that can dance, and since I do both, on Friday I'd directed them to my MySpace page for sound clips and pics.  Sure enough, they replied saying they'd like for me to come in and audition on this Wednesday, 7/15.  

Those who know me know that I buck up at most things involving music.  Even so, I was unclear about what I was actually auditioning for, so I sent them a follow-up email.  To my amazement they replied immediately, telling me the audition is for new singers in a high-end NYC event band.  AGAIN, another unconventional job opportunity, but I was still happy.  I love to audition, and the role would mean performance experience, exposure, and linkage to talented musicians.  The email said I would have to perform an uptempo song along with a ballad from a short list of selections - I will likely do "Sign Sealed Delivered" and "At Last."

Amidst my excitement and initial preparation for the audition (2 days away), I get an apologetic email from the music production company saying, "We're sorry.  The audition is actually on the 23rd."  These people better not be yanking my chain! So much for thinking things were happening quickly!

But here's my question - When am I going to get responses to the conventional employment applications that I sent out?  Or am I to expect the "recession status quo" on that front?  All I know is the employers/hiring officers for these alternative positions need to get their acts together before emailing applicants and scheduling interviews.  Times are tough and you never know.  One "accidental" email, like the ones I received, if sent to the wrong down-on-his-luck individual may send him over the edge.

We don't want people to start going postal.  Heck, I don't want to have to go postal! ...ha (jk?)

Be well, Read more...

Unemployment Advice from the Unemployed

Unemployment is BAD @ NOW! Period. 

My situation is my situation, and I'll deal with that on Mondays, but for every other young college graduate struggling to find a job, just know you are by no means alone.

So how do we cope in these economic times?  Employers are only hiring the most experienced & specialized or the applicants with the lowest wage expectations and greatest likelihood of staying in the position long term.   Does this mean the average college graduate with a B.A. is screwed?

Well let's see - You could take the dreamer route and use this "down time" as your chance to explore your interests and possible entrepreneurial exploits.  You could also choose to get involved with a non-profit or service organization and do good for the community... OH WAIT!

  

- You have college loans!  Maybe grad school loans!

- You pay your cell phone bill every month!

- You are paying for health insurance each month in case the thin veil of protection that is "youth" tears!

- You want to enjoy 20s (i.e. have a social life)!

OH and the "public good" organizations that you can "fall back on and work for"...yeah, they're application processes is just as demanding and fruitless as those for private sector positions.  Not to mention the thousands of peers all vying for the same low-paying, soul-fulfilling, wallet quenching job.

Hmmph.  I hate to sound pessimistic, so take my word for it - I'm not.  I'm just being a realist and presenting the Real World that we are all presently confronting... together.  These times are calling on ALL of us, even the ones who feel they've earned and deserve top-notch employment, to "man up" and be that persistent pest that you've always despised. You've got to hunt down that measly job like you're a rabid bear that just woke up from 3 months of hibernation (possibly a year in some of your cases), and ferociously hunt down that prey.  Even if you end up with just a few wild berries, food is food. A job is a job.  Experience is experience.

You don't want a gaping HOLE in your resume so occupy your time in some meaningful way.  Start your own business with friends, be PRO-ACTIVE with your goals, and put it ALL on the resume.

Lastly, we're all going to have to drop our pride and accept the fact that in this climate, it's about WHO YOU KNOW.  Yes, you've heard it a dozen times, so how about you wisen up, accept it as truth, and act on it.  Call those contacts that you barely know. Send them emails every other day.  USE those acquaintances that you actually can't stand.  After all, if they were in your shoes, they'd probably use you in a heartbeat to get some career advancement.

Should you go back to school?  Sure, if you actually WANT to!  Don't be a fool though.  Don't think that deferring reality with more education will make your life any better in the future, because YOUR TRUTH will reveal itself in the end.  You'll either have the additional degree, a good position, and a happy life, or still more debt, and THE SAME AMOUNT OF ANXIETY AND CONFUSION YOU HAVE NOW.

GET UP and DO SOMETHING. Clocks don't stop and time won't wait.

Be well,

p.s. I wrote this post for you but mostly so that I can read the wisdom I have internally and finally act on it outwardly.  Hopefully you will do the same.

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On the LOOKout - Rapper "G." talks with The RGC

I don't really have a "day job," just a trilogy. I am at once a lyricist, an attorney, and a professor. My career is not triforcated like this out of financial necessity, but out of desire. I love making music, I love practicing law, and I love teaching university students.

Self-proclaimed as "the voice of the Black Collegian," the rapper "G." is truly a unique artist with a one-of-a-kind blend of intellect, lyrical mastery, social awareness, and business acumen. Rap moguls like P. Diddy, Jay-Z, and 50 cent all achieved their international renown with similar mixes of these talents. Depending on how he plays his cards, G. could also rise and become a dominant force in the game, whether behind the pen, in front of the mic, or both.


We at the RGC had the pleasure of learning a great deal about this complicated and dynamic lyricist. We asked the questions and here's your chance to learn everything you want to know about the Ivy League educated, JD and Masters degree holding, university professor, and beyond ambitious rapper.  I hope you ate your breakfast because school is about to begin!

The RGC:  So who is "G?"

G.: First of all, it's "G." always with the period, never without. The name is a shortened version of my first name, "Giovanni." It's just something I've always been called as a child to avoid the interesting ways people chose to pronounce "Giovanni." As I grew older, the letter "G" took on a place of prominence in hip-hop. Originally meaning "gangster," but now to be a "G" simply means to be at the top of your game. I've been pleasantly surprised to find no other hip-hop artist has chosen the single letter to represent them. One problem I didn't anticipate, however, it's darn hard to Google me!

The RGC: When did you start rapping? And when did you decide that this was something you wanted to pursue?

G.: I wrote my first rap song in 8th grade. I think it was called "Yes, I'm Fresh," to the best of my memory :-). My first on stage appearance was my Junior year on the campus at Arizona State, where I had recently transferred from FAMU (long story). That was also the first year I was on the radio; I didn't have any recorded material, I just went down the the station and spit a freestyle. Perhaps this was around the time I decided to make a career out of writing and performing music, but I also knew it would not be my only career.



The RGC: Where do you get your material from? What inspires you to write?

G.: When I sit down to write a song, it's usually because I have something I want to say. Art is more than just what's on the surface. So I have to start with the reason, the purpose, the soul. I then put on a production track, count the beats per measure (you often hear rappers referring to "trying to catch the beat,"; if you were to count the beats per measure ahead of time, the beat would have never gotten away from you in the first place). Finally, I pace the studio until the lyrics begin to come to me. This part I have difficulty explaining. I'm not quite sure from where the lyrics come. Often I listen back to a completed work - sometimes years later - and am surprised myself by a double entendre or an obscure reference that brings the song new meaning. I am forced to conclude that my artistic brain and my academic brain are wholly separate, and the two rarely communicate. When giving a lecture about my own music, I must sit down and analyze my music not as the author but as a scholar, like any other.

The RGC: Okay, well who are some of your biggest hip-hop/music inspirations?

G.: Of course I have to start with the classics: Bob Marley, 2Pac, Billie Holiday, Stevie Wonder, KRS-One, John Coltrane & perhaps most important my parents, Dr. & Mrs. James Turner. Soulja Slim's life and death also had a huge impact on my music; I'm sure that's true with all New Orleans emcees. And I'd be remissed if I didn't give props to Ohene for polishing the raw diamond he found back in 2003. Some names from which you might be surprised to hear a rapper drawing inspiration: Sarah McLachlan, Sarah Vaughn, Nella Larsen, Jacques Derrida, Emily Dickinson, & Dr. Bill Cosby.

The RGC: Talk about eclectic! It's great though that you don't limit the sources from which you pull energy and study. What our blog appreciates most about you, G., is your scholarly yet aggressive approach to your music. Also, you really aren't taking any prisoners with your lyrics. Case and point - your song, "Penicide." You expressed a lot of frustration with the present state of rap. What do you see as the biggest problem with the rap game nowadays?

G.: If I had to choose one that gives me the greatest pause, it is settling for mediocrity, not striving to reach your full potential. It seems to me that far too many people are so afraid of failure, they reach only for a lesser, much more achievable version of their dreams. We have far too many MBAs staying in management, never to start their own company; too many English and Literature MAs/PhDs toiling away at correcting the writing of their students instead of writing books of their own; and yes, too many hip-hop artists just following what their A&R deemed to be the current trend, in a desperate attempt to avoid being dropped from the label - few dare to set trends of their own (what's really sad is some indie artists are their own A&R, and they still do this).

The RGC: Well let's turn the lens inwards. We all acknowledge your remarkable talent but what do you see as your greatest strengths and weaknesses as a rapper?

G.: My greatest strengths would have to include songwriting, depth, and creativity. I take great pride in meticulously scripting each word... I also cover a broad range of topics. As I discussed earlier, I want to invite many more people to the hip-hop table than had been previously. A hip-hop song can be about something more than wealth, poverty, crime, sex, governmental injustice, and the art of emceeing itself. Not that these topics aren't important, but they are not the only important topics.

If I had to admit to a weakness, it would probably be that I have a difficult time relating to my fans. It is rare that I receive the feedback that a fan saw themselves in a song I wrote. There are exceptions. A lot people were drawn to "Fallen" from Legend of the Chancellor because they too felt so beaten down by life's pressures, they questioned whether to even go on. And others count "Superstar's Voicemail" as their favorite song from American Scholar because I have articulated what they wished to say to the love interest in their lives. However, [my fans find themselves appreciating many of my songs without seeing themselves in [them]. I think this relationship works. Some of my favorite songs are about the struggles of a child of a single parent - Diana Ross' "Love Child" or Goapele's "Childhood Drama" - even though I grew up with both my parents.

The RGC: What do you bring to rap that is uniquely different?

G.: To avoid giving a cliched answer to this question, indulge me while I give specific examples of what I have added to the hip-hop history books. On my first album The Chancellor (later rereleased under the title Legend of the Chancellor, if you stumble upon both, get the rerelease, the mastering was redone with updated technology), I wrote a song entitled "String Theory." That song blends hip-hop, science fact, and science fiction. I wrote this song to break way outside the mold of what is considered fair game in hip-hop. When picturing a typical hip-hop fan, few envision mathematics doctoral students. My father is a mathematician; many of his students listen to hip-hop, but they never thought they could blend the two together. This was my invitation to them to have a seat at the hip-hop table - next to the poet, to the left of the injustice protester, and directly across from the ex-felon looking to change his/her life around... On my current album, American Scholar, the song "Hunger" is another example... of how I venture out into uncharted waters. I find many socially unconscious hip-hop songs attempt to wrestle topics so big, they cannot possibly cover the breath of the issue. "Hunger," on the other hand, is specifically about teenagers - 16, 17 years old - who are living in poverty and cannot get enough to eat. They are now faced with the prospect of soon being a woman or a man and having to take care of themselves. Now this issue seems much smaller than World hunger in general. It is easier to say, "Ahhh, I understand. And there is something we can do. We need to insure these students find their way into college. We need to get them scholarships that cover all expenses and include the summers. They can then matriculate into a fruitful career, and - unsaddled with student loan debt - reach back and care for the family members back home." It was difficult to stay so narrowly focused, but I have yet to hear any fan or critic say the art suffered because of it.

The RGC: What is your chief goal regarding your rap career?

G.: My chief goal is getting people to break free of definitions and stereotypes. We are quick to say "that's not hip-hop" or "quit acting white." But the truly great people in history never let others put them in a clearly labeled box. Dr. King didn't let others tell him what "Christian" means, Obama doesn't let others tell him what "Progressive Politics" is, and I definitely do not let others tell me what hip-hop is. Shout out RAHM Nation: Ohene, Random, Greg Soundz, DN3. Make sure you pick up both of those albums: American Scholar and Legend of the Chancellor. And keep reading The RGC, I love this blog! (please leave a comment, let us know you're out there)

The RGC: Thanks for the shout out, haha, and for answering all of these questions! On a final note, are you working on any new projects?

G.: I'm currently touring the Southeast promoting the current project, American Scholar. The new single, "Things to Remember" (my attempt to explain to women why men don't always show their emotions) is getting some good feedback. You can download it from iTunes or Amazon.com. And if you follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/G504) and catch me in a good mood, I just might post a free download link to it. The next album is called Metalanguage. I can't even begin to explain what this album is about. If you are a student of Nietzsche or Barthes, you probably already know a little bit about Metalanguage, and this will be a bold undertaking. This album is very important to me, so it'll take a while. I started it last year, perhaps it will be ready next summer. There is also a certain someone I really, really, really want to be a part of this album. Contracts haven't been signed yet, so I can't say who, but she knows who she is ;-). In the meantime, enjoy American Scholar and Legend of The Chancellor.

The RGC: Again, thanks so much, G., for doing this interview with us. Keep "doing you" - educating us, haha - and good things will happen. Much respect.

For you readers, here are some links to G.'s different Internet pages. Check him out!

www.rahmnation.org - RAHM Nation Recordings, LLC's homepage
www.myspace.com/504g - ADD G.
www.twitter.com/G504 - Follow G.
www.cdbaby.com/gtunes3 - Buy G.
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Would You Have Helped Her?

When you see a beggar on the street, what do you typically do? Better yet, what do you usually think?

This past weekend, I was hanging out with a friend in Union Square (New York). The sun was still shining and we were looking for a place to eat. As we were walking around a corner on our way to Pizza Hut, a pleasant voice grabbed our attention...

"Excuse Me," says a woman.

My friend and I turn around to see a taller white woman, probably 5'8" and 29 years old, had politely stopped us. She fit the description of the talented NY artist perfectly - retro yet trendy glasses, comfortable and loose earth-toned linen clothes, a bohemian-style shoulder bag strung across her body, curly dirty blond hair in a ponytail. There was a creative, generous, and thoughtful look to her.

"I'm sorry," she says, "but do you happen to have any change you could spare me?"

After a very slight pause, my friend replies "I'm sorry, I don't have any change." I nod my head in agreement and tell her "sorry."

The woman gives us a very slight, embarrassed smile and turns to cross the street, quickly blending back into the young crowd that frequents the Union Square area.

What made this encounter so profound was that my friend and I proceeded to talk about this woman, our perception of her, and our reaction for the next 40 minutes. Right after leaving the woman, both of us expressed how we had only expected her to ask for directions. After all, the woman had been alone and was looking somewhat lost, so when she stopped us we were ready to give her any directional help she needed. When instead, she asked for money, we were for lack of a better word, shocked.

To be blunt, the woman did not look like a beggar; she just looked like an alternative white woman. Neither of us had ever been solicited for money by anyone that looked like her. Additionally, you could hear the awkward discomfort and shame in her voice as she asked for our help. Walking away after having denied such a "nice" person, we couldn't help but feel bad and wonder why we were experiencing these emotions on such a degree, when countless beggars before and after her have/will not inspire the same emotions. And the discussion began...

Did the beggar's "whiteness" cause us to feel such sympathy? Or perhaps it was purely because she was a woman, a kind woman? No no.

Having had some time to consider the event, I think there were two factors at play that each sparked different reactions.

1. Race combined with status - The "beggar" being white and seemingly kempt caused us to expect an innocent, impersonal, basic question. The request for money was simply surprising and unexpected because it went against any norms we'd been subliminally taught to accept by society.

2. Her sincerity and emotion - Unlike many "beggars" who after months of asking for money, grow indifferent to soliciting the help of strangers. This woman was clearly new to her financial situation and emotionally weathered by having to set aside her pride on so many levels. The emotional/personal element of her request is what resonated the most and made us ultimately analyze our thoughts about her for so long.

As justified as we may be in experiencing the feelings we did, post-incident, we couldn't deny the tinge of disappointment we felt in ourselves for giving that particular beggar so much more thought and attention than...say...a black, disheveled one. We know it's not SIMPLY a race issue FOR US. But for others, who knows. Maybe it would have been.

No matter, that experience just hammered home the reality of our social and economic times. Everyone is feeling the burden and no person - rich or poor, artist or businessman, man or woman, yellow or red - is exempt from possible struggles. Lastly, we all need to check our personal biases and completely revamp our ideas of what's expected of certain groups in our society.

How would you have reacted?

Happy 4th & Be well, 

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Drake - Best I Ever Had Music Video **

Let us know what you think about the new Drake video. Kanye West directed the vid; Do you think it's "D"licious or "D"gusting? Or perhaps it's just whatever...

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New Letoya Luckett Video - "She Ain't Got Shit On Me!"

Balladeer Letoya Luckett has finally released an uptempo song for us. She's been the go-to Summer Ballad singer since her 2006 chart-topping release "Torn." Now she's stepping up to the "fast track plate," and she may hit a home run with this one. This is definitely a hot video and song for the ladies. It's already gaining lots of buzz all over the internet, and that's good news for Letoya's forthcoming album, scheduled for release later this year.

Have a look at the video here:

*The timing's a bit off towards the end, but there's no denying this track is fire*

"You're a puppy on a leash, time to come back home.
I done let you out to play, but you ain't playing fair.
You done met this lil' stray, bringing flees 'round here."

Also, check out Letoya's new album cover:


Rate and Be well,
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2009 BET Awards Review

After over two months of anticipation, commercials, and hype, the 2009 BET Awards aired last night nationwide. With Michael Jackson's death occurring just 3 days prior to the live broadcast, BET expectedly and willingly burdened itself with an attempt to revamp a show that had likely been planned "down to a T" for months. Unfortunately for BET and the viewing audiences, it seemed that any organization and structure that might have once existed went AWOL. The 4 hour broadcast succeeded in making me shake my head in disapproval time and time again.

The show opened with a tribute to the Jackson 5 "sung" (and I use the term lightly) by 80s-90s R&B group New Edition. Bobby Brown and his groupmates had the dance steps down perfectly but vocally they were out of commission. It would have been a better opening to have Boyz II Men +1 or a lineup of individual male artists - Neyo, Mario, Ginuwine, Tyrese, Usher - do the tribute. 

Next came the big MC intro skit by Jamie Foxx, and while he certainly grabbed all of our attention and likely had you laughing, I couldn't help but notice how poorly the sound system was performing. Unlike at most award shows where there is a nice crowd mic-stage mic-hand mic balance, the hand and crowd mics were at a much lower volumes than they should have been. Consequently, instead of hearing Jamie's jokes followed by uproarious laughter, all you heard was a muffled, in and out crowd reaction that made it seem like Jamie was falling flat. Even so, the hype and energy was so high for this awards show that all was forgiven.  The house crowd and we home viewers were anxious to move along towards WHATEVER the climax of the show, dedicated to Michael Jackson, would be.

Well, throughout the night we witnessed a lot of mediocre performances, missed stage cues, dead air time, mic issues, lack of comedy, and long-winded speeches. Over time, these shortcomings in production decisions and technical problems drained every ounce of excitement that had existed at the top of the broadcast. Watching the TV became almost a burden of the heart where viewers were left waiting for greatness - something to pay proper tribute to Michael or be the "water cooler topic" for work. Sadly, the closest thing we received was an unexpected and touching speech from Janet Jackson, expressing her grief, gratitude, and love of the community's support. We appreciated her brief appearance, and it provided a last minute boost in energy for the program. Jamie Foxx and Neyo then ended the broadcast with a sweet sounding, emotional duet that complemented the somber yet thankful mood Janet inspired.

So why are so many calling the 2009 BET Awards show a major fail? It's simple. There was nothing in the show that lived up to the hype: no singular powerful MJ tribute, no historic or shocking performances, horrible sound editing, and a ton of just plain mediocrity. But what do you expect? Right now a good number of the artists being promoted and GIVEN success are little more than mediocre. This awards show was ultimately a testament to the fact that you can't create Greatness from a pile of sub par and misused ingredients.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS:
- "Blame it on the Alcohol Performance" - Jamie Foxx
- 16 y.o. Keke Palmer schooling the wannabe female singers with her short a cappella tribute to MJ
- "Sheneneh and Wanda" movie trailer - Martin and Jamie (this needs to happen)
- Mary Mary & Queen Latifah performance of "It's the God in Me"
- O Jays tribute medley - Tevin Campbell, Tyrese, Johnny Gill, and Trey Songz)
- O Jays performance - sounded remarkably better than many of the younger groups on the show
- Eddie Levert's accidental slip up - "Dancing and Sh*t"
- Jay Z's D.O.A. performance - Undeniable swag, lyrical strength, and stage presence. Very little bleeping needed.
- Acting done by Ving Rhames, Tyrese, and Taraji P. Henson prior to announcing the winner for "Best female R&B."  We were all watching in horror (praying AGAINST a ghetto mess), not knowing whether it was all an act or if Ving and Tyrese were getting ready to throw down on national television.  

SHOW LOWLIGHTS:
- Opening performance by New Edition was not successful vocally. At all
- Every return from a commercial break - Dead air
- Not announcing the nominees was in poor taste. It took away from the "awards" aspect of the show, robbed the viewers of the moment of anticipation, and did not show respect for the non-winning nominees
- Don Cornelius' long winded speech during the O Jays tribute. No one was paying attention and his story dragged on for far too long
- Drake & Lil Wayne performance - Drake's torn ACL confined him to a stool, Lil Wayne's lyrics had so many curses that he was being bleeped on practically every other word. I actually muted my TV on this performance because it sounded like a drawn out train wreck. Combine all that with the underage, 12-14 year old girls dancing on stage to "I wish I could F#*k every girl in the world," and you have a CERTIFIED SOURCE AWARDS HOT MESS.

DIM LIGHTS, The mediocre:
- Keri Hilson's performance was visually stimulating, but vocally underwhelming. She switched mics too often and each mic was at a different sound level, making her performance sound disjointed and manic at times.
- Soulja Boy's "Turn my swag on" - typical and nothing special
- Beyonce's "Ave Maria" was beautiful and sweet, but it seemed more like a clipping from her tour than a unique and crowd-pleasing showcase crafted for the BET Awards/MJ tribute
- Ciara singing a ballad instead of performing an energetic MJ tribute. Again, it was sweet but just time-filler. A ballad would have been better suited for Chrisette Michelle, Letoya Luckett, or KEKE PALMER!
- Neyo's throwback icon medley featuring Keith Sweat, Guy, and B.B.D. - Once again, the dance steps and visual were there, but vocal aspects were lacking.
- Jamie Foxx's hosting - At one point we forgot he was even there.

With so many low and dim elements in the BET broadcast, there was no way this awards show could do justice to MJ or even be cited as one of the better BET awards.

Do you agree with me? Am I just wrong?

Be well,

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*Highlights* - On the LOOKout: The "Ready" Jarell Perry

The music industry has been shaken by the death of Michael Jackson. People of all ages are analyzing the legend's life in an attempt to understand what made him so successful, so international, so inspiring. Well, any Michael Jackson fan knows that his strengths were numerous and talent incomparable, but one essential ingredient to his success was Drive, the Drive to be the best and understand the business.

Recently, I've come across two artists who, although in the early stages of their careers, are truly showing they have, in abundance, the same crucial ingredient as MJ. For that reason alone, their chances of gaining the public's ear and attention are far greater than most.  Artist # 1 is...

Jarell Perry
A 2009 graduate of UCLA, Jarell Perry has an undeniably smooth voice that can definitely entrance audiences. There's a reason he was selected to sing the national anthem in front of thousands for UCLA's '09 graduation ceremony. Let's not dwell on the vocals however, because, while they are remarkable, what really draws attention to Jarell is how professional he is at just 22 years old and ready to be propelled into the spotlight.



The mark of a successful artist is determination and poise, and Jarell has both. Throughout his four years in college, Jarell took advantage of the California music scene, performing often at local campus and community venues, and building a solid fan base. He also successfully launched a great YouTube channel, MySpace, and personal website/blog that give his fans updates on his journey to stardom and musical appearances.

Furthermore, Jarell Perry is swiftly becoming a masterful songwriter who succeeds in bringing new perspectives and expression to the old concepts of love and relationships. One creative lyric that caught my ear came from Jarell's song "Got Me Open" featuring the rapper "Miggz": "I was ice cold, and I didn't even see it. Still you stuck around, melted me down, to a human being."

Some tracks you should definitely check out are "Indestructible," "Change Your Mind," "Back Together," and "Miracle." Nearly every one of his tracks could make the Billboard top charts with the right production finishing; solid production is one of the few things that some of Jarell's tracks lack. The only other advice to offer Jarell is to diversify the melodic lines he explores in his songs; that way his songs won't end up sounding "familiar" and will always showcase their creative originality. Even still, Jarell is constantly writing new material and exhibits a true desire to continue learning and growing in his craft.

To put it frankly, Jarell Perry has "it" together! With over a dozen studio recordings available for download already, this young singer/songwriter is prepared with both talent and product to take on the industry and claim his spot. He is not waiting around for some "dream manager" to take the reins of his career. No, Jarell has assembled his own team and is trailblazing a direct route to the national stage all on his own. Chances are industry professionals are already taking note of Jarell's firm grasp on personal marketing and branding, so it may not be long before we start hearing his tunes on our radios.



MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jarellperrymusic

How confident am I that Jarell will have a significant breakthrough soon?
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