Video: Janelle Monáe - Q.U.E.E.N. feat. Erykah Badu

I have been Monae fan for a LONG TIME! this video is something different fromh her. I love it!!!

DJ MARS + KICKSTARTE​R.COM HAVE PARTNERED TO PUBLISH "THE ART BEHIND THE TAPE" | THE FIRST BOOK WITTEN ON MIXTAPE COVER ART

Dj Mars, Bril Ndiaye and Maurice Garland, along with kickstarter.com have partnered to bring you,"The Art Behind The Tape". The first ever coffee table book detailing the history of mixtape cover art. This book will detail and highlight the progression of mixtape cover art, from the Kid Capri era to the Dj Drama(Gangsta Grillz)classics.

Have you ever wondered who was the first dj to actually have a fully designed mixtape cover? Or who were the first dj's to stop using the Kinko's styled covers? "THE ART BEHIND THE TAPE" will answer all of those questions and more.

The first book ever written to exclusively discuss mixtapes, cannot be done without your help. Kickstarter is the platform but you all are the gas that's going to make this car go.

Small pledges from $1.00-$2,500.00 will help make this dream a reality. Please take a moment and click the link below to see exactly what the project is all about!

CLICK HERE for more details!

Sometimes Life..

When i finally decided to publish my long awaited novel, i had no clue what to expect. I was just excited that I had finally made it happen and that all the people who had been waiting for it could finally get to see my talent. Funny thing is alot of those same people haven't read the book. I even wrote out a list if goals to accomplish. Funny thing is, though the book is selling well. I wonder if i created reasonable goals?

Sometimes i just stare at the wall where the photo hangs of the cover and wonder where will this take me? How fast or slow will i get there? How come people i don't know are more supporting than ones I've know for years? And who really understands what finally getting this completed meant to me? Yes, i want major sales because i want to maintain a successful career as an Author, writing consultant and maybe an agent. But more than anything I want to walk in my Godly purpose. Now I'm just going to assume its in the realm of writing because i have several written manuscripts that just need to be edited and published. I would like to think God didn't have me write all those stories for the heck of it. I also know to some extent my purpose is in helping people. I write with that purpose ALWAYS! I KNOW my gift needs to be used to inspire people, to encourage them into positive change and give wisdom. Service on many levels is my heart... I love love love helping people make their dreams happen, even if its just getting the part time job they want. I write the resume, do the company research, get recommendations and even call to check on the status of the job. (I'm sure you're like you tend to hinder people. But i feel like you can't hinder someone who doesn't have the know how, sometimes education or courage to do it themselves. You teach them by actions) Either way, i don't go above and beyond for people because i want something in return. I do it because i want people who don't have the know how and sometimes the will power to feel what its like to reach a goal. In hopes that it would inspire them to keep striving and reaching without help. Me finally publishing my book has open doors of courage for a lot of people around me to follow their dreams and though i know this may sound crazy but that has actually been more fulfilling than me finally publishing the book or getting sales.

Don't get me wrong i do want to be compensated and recognized for what i love to do. Because it took alot of work, time, effort, heart and research. But when someone contacts me and they are seeking advice on the steps they need to start their own business or wanting me to read over their manuscript or share the knowledge that i have gained. I get a different kind of joyful feeling even if i never sale another book, never become a New York times bestselling author, or never get my dream publishing deal with Randomhouse; I will continue to publish my stories. I know i didn't sit down and write them for no reason. There is a method to Gods madness all the time!! I maybe dead when people actually take some interest in me as an author but I'm honestly okay with that. I said all this to say, sometimes the gift God gave you isn't meant to be used for what the eye can see. Sometimes its meant to be used to teach you a lesson, to show you somethings about yourself and the people around you, to open doors for someone who could only dream about it cause they could not see a physical example in their day to day or just for God to get his glory.

Which ever it is for you i will say this. Embarking on what God has called you to do will bring sleepless nights, tearful nights,headache, doubt, a degree of envy (in the sense of comparing your success to others), man i could go on. Just know nothing you work at goes in vain. God will grant you every desire of your heart if you can understand that your desire sometimes isn't what you think it is until God presents you with what he knows it is.

LOVE IS LOVE!

PUT IT IN THE AIR

"I want to be an inspiration to someone. I want to help people in anyway possible; have healthier lives, feel better about themselves, love others unconditionally and anything else my mind can't even imagine. I want to bring people together. I want to encourage and give courage. If that's at all possible. I want to create a great life for myself, my children, my family and my friends. I want to be happy and have a piece of mind that is sane and ambitious. I want to love, be loved, feel love, adore love, change love, inspire love and create love. I want to forgive and teach others how to forgive. I want to serve God in ways unimaginable bringing hearts and souls to him. I want to teach them by actions how to serve God. I want to be surrounded by people who serve God and who are overjoyed doing so. I want financial freedom, creative freedom, and any other form of freedom without limitations. I want to inspire change and inspire people to accept change. I want to be healthier in every aspect possible. I want to encourage not just with my words but with my actions. I want better but not just for myself, but I want to help others find better in themselves."

AUTUMNJONES WANTS YOU TO MEET: Freelance Writer & DTP Assistant/Writer Tawni S. Fears

Before we start please tell us everything you do. And how do you prioritize?
I work full time at Disturbing Tha Peace Records. I run my own freelance writing company, The Tawni Logues, where I offer services such as bios, editing, press releases, product descriptions, and more.  I contribute to sites and publications. Right now AllHipHop.com is the one I write for weekly. On top of that I have a busy social life, between celebrations for friends and family, and my personal life, but I'm a pretty organized person. I just make it work. Some weekends I may have to make three stops the same day. I'm very big on support. If you're in my life I make sure I make you feel like it. My career aspirations will never take the place of love, family, and friends. I need all of that to be successful.

What inspired you to start your own freelance writing service?

I've been writing since I was a child, 6 to be exact. I pushed it to the back somewhat when I got to college, but it never left me. My dad stayed on me about my love for writing he saw in me. I got my first gig with gospel artist Kierra Sheard, writing a press release. After that, the name and idea for my company just came to me.

Some of your clients range from Jasmine Guy, Kiki Sheard to Pj Morton. How do you get clients? do they contact you?
Those clients you named all came about because of my sister-in-law Tina Fears of Stage Ready. She contracted me to do the writing. We're both dreamers and both support one another. She got me my first job with Kierra Sherad. The majority of my other jobs come from referrals, social networking sites, and other people on the industry trusting my skills to get the job done. Many times its people I’ve seen a few times, they find out what I do, and they give me a chance.

Some of what you do involves public relations. Do you consider yourself a public relations service provider as well?
I've been asked about going into PR a few times. While I do most of the writing that those in PR do, I can't do their job. My lane is freelance writing, and I stick to that. I may expand as the years go on, but I believe in doing what's meant for you. Right now that's writing.

Your full time career is working for DTP. You have been there for a while now. Is there ever a conflict of interest when you have am opportunity to do something different?
DTP has been a big part of why I have some of the clientele that I do. The relationships I've built over the past 6 years have helped me see my passions come to life. When I'm at work, it's about DTP. I even do some writing that goes out to the blogs and sites for the label.  After work I am writing bios, editing, doing interviews, or going to events to network. I keep it all separate, but it’s all for one big goal.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years I want to be doing what's for me. It's hard to say what that will be because I'm letting God and my dreams guide me. I want to be running my own company full time, I do know that. Maybe have a book of two under my belt. But honestly the sky is the limit. I won't even limit myself by what I speak into my future. I just hope and pray its good things.

What can future clients expect from you personally and professionally?
Future clients can expect me to go and take classes in writing. I believe in continuous learning and improvement. They can expect the same prompt service and quality work. I also plan to grow as a woman as well. The more I grow the better businesswoman I will become.

What advice would you give someone looking to do freelance writing?
When people come to me I tell them to come up with a plan, pray on it, and execute. Get to know the individuals that do what you want to do. Write for free, if you see it paying off down the road. Stick with it. Improve on your skills. Don't give up.

Have you ever had to turn down an opportunity because it didn't fit your standards?
Yes. On some occasions the people that come to me don't have the right energy. If it doesn't feel right, I don't consider the money. All money isn't good money, as they say.

What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to become a major editor, possibly an author, and make The Tawni Logues known worldwide. But I want to stand out as a woman of character more than anything else.


For more information on Tawni S. Fears
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AUTUMNJONES WANTS YOU TO MEET: Handbag Designer Tori Nicole

Tell us about your company and how you got started?

Tori Nicole, Inc. was established in June of 2009 while I was working in Boston. This was my first attempt to follow my childhood dream of being in the fashion industry and owning a business. In the Fall of the same year I moved to DC and lived there for 3 years pursing a masters degree in Bilingual Special Education at The George Washington University and working full time with special needs children at a public elementary school. It was during this time that I trademarked Tori Nicole® (which is now a registered brand), and realized that I was working more on developing my brand than I was on my school work. I was torn because I couldn’t suppress my childhood passion.

How long have you been designing handbags?

I have been designing handbags on an off for almost a year. Before my parents purchased a sewing machine for me, I was making them by hand. Having a machine made a huge difference as I continued to create and deconstruct the bags throughout the year for friends and family. Additionally during this time I wore my “sample” bags to see if people would notice them. I was thrilled when I received compliments on the bags and asked where I got them. Having received such positive feedback throughout the year, I decided this past Fall to create my first line of handbags.

 What would you tell someone who is interested in designing their own line as well?

I would tell him/her to definitely go for it. You have to be passionate and determined because designing your own line takes a lot of hard work and dedication to succeed. I am lucky to have such a great support system of close friends and family that have been with me every step of the way. That definitely makes a difference.

What's next for Tori Nicole?
Well, a few things. My line will soon be launched in VIRA Boutique on Beacon Hill, as well as online at www.ToriNicole.com. Ultimately, I would love for them to also be in other boutiques both nationally and internationally. For now, I’m just taking it one step at a time.

What sets you apart from the competition?
I think that the colors of my handbags and shapes of some of the prints are what make them stand out, regardless of the various styles of the handbags.I love that the handbags also range in sizes and show a little of my personality in each one.

What is your ultimate goal professionally and personally?
My ultimate professional goal is to build an international fashion empire. My ultimate personal goal is to be happy in whatever I do; whether with a family of my own or just being the “cool” auntJ. If I do have children, I want to be able to show them the world as I have seen it and to encourage and help them to follow their dreams.

Have you ever designed a bag that you didn't like as much but other people loved?Not yet. Erykah Badu said it best; “Keep in mind that I’m an artist, and I’m sensitive about my [stuff].” I usually don’t show the ones that I don’t like to others. 

What inspires you to create a new piece?
My inspirations stem from several sources: something I see in magazine or while traveling; a fashion trend; colors and shapes of objects; anything!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years I see myself as a highly recognized designer with my international brand.

Tori Nicole® handbags can be found at VIRA Boutique on Beacon Hill, MA.

For more information on Tori Nicole

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FREE Love Publicity E-book

Love Connosieur and Publicist Teia B Hariis of Love Publicity, recently published her company's first e-book "Postion your company to Love Publicity." It's a great read so download it here and enjoy!

MY FIRST NOVEL 'Carry The Day' FOR PURCHASE

I am so excited to announce that though Its been a LONGGGGG journey, it has happily come to an end. My long awaited self-published novel CARRY THE DAY is now available via Create Space online. I can not express how excited i am. Speechless really after all this time i thought maybe i would never make it happen. A lot has happened but God had a reason FOR IT ALL and so now that it is completed he can get his glory!!!! At this current time it is only online however, I am working hard now trying to also get it sold in stores but until then you can purchase it here!

Thank you all for all your support and patience. I know i have been disregarding the blog. I have no excuse, i will be back at it. That's my word!

Also to anyone who purchases the book, I would love for you to let me know what you think; whether it's good or bad. This is a career i intend to spend the rest of my life doing. So input can help in so many ways! Especially since, I have three other manuscripts that i have written and i intend on publishing as well.

Again thank you all!

Sandy Hook I pray God Heals!

When this images came across my screen i didn't know what had actually happened because i wasn't really listening to the TV at the time. I just saw the image and it alone sent everything in my body south! So i turned up the TV to hear that a young man had killed and wounded several at an ELEMENTARY school! The first thing i said was "My God!" I can not believe the amount of young people who are not stable enough to understand the magnitude of bringing harm to your own kind (The HUMAN RACE) especially children. As a mother now, i could not imagine having to endure this moment. Yet as a realist i don't put anything past anyone because we seem to be living in the days of Revelations and no one is exempt. Kids kill their parents all the time, not that its ok but her class? I'm thinking just maybe he felt she gave her students more attention than she gave him. That was the first thing i could think about. I also don't understand why he didn't try and kill the father or the brother? I guess its not for me to figure out. However being the type of person that i am, i always try to figure out the emotional mind set the person was in because many of times, it has a lot to do with things.

I pray God heals the families involved.

Charlotte Bacon, 6
Daniel Barden, 7
Rachel Davino, 29
Olivia Engel, 6
Josephine Gay, 7
Ana Marquez-Greene, 6
Dylan Hockley, 6
Dawn Hochsprung, 47
Madeleine Hsu, 6
Catherine Hubbard, 6
Chase Kowalski, 7
Jesse Lewis, 6
James Mattioli, 6
Grace McDonnell, 7
Anne Marie Murphy, 52
Emilie Parker, 6
Jack Pinto, 6
Noah Pozner, 6
Caroline Previdi, 6
Jessica Rekos, 6
Avielle Richman, 6
Lauren Rousseau, 30
Mary Sherlach, 56
Victoria Soto, 27
Benjamin Wheeler, 6
Allison Wyatt, 6

Barack Obama Gets a 2nd TERM!

A lot of people are pissed that President Barack Obama is getting a second term. Now, they can come up with all these false reason why he shouldn't have been voted for but really they don't like the fact that he is a black man! Yea, i said it. Let's be honest the man has progressed this country on levels that no other president has. You cant tell me that isn't respectable but at the end of the day He WON regardless of what anyone thought or felt. And i just want to take this moment and give him a little shine.... (Smell the flowers Mr. President, Smell the flowers!)

Picture: Wow

Someone passed this picture along to me during the election and all i could say was WOW!

Issa Rae & Shonda Rhimes Hate L.A. Dudes

 In many recent reports the creator of  web series, The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl, Issa Rae's and writer, director and producer Shonda Rhimes have come together to create a new series. The series titled, I Hate L.A. Dudes was sold to ABC and is being produced through Rhimes Shondaland production company.

My FIRST Novel 'Carry The Day' Almost on the Way

I'm sure everyone is wondering where have i been! Trust me i haven't abandoned the blog..I've been busy being a new mommy of little Miss Autumn Ade', working a PT job and making the finishing touches on my soon to be Self-Published NOVEL!!! When i say I am overjoyed, nervous and relieved because it's been sooooooo long, you wouldn't believe! And as much as i want to spill it all out right now, this is just a quick post because I don't have a lot of time right now. But once i get the time I will give a full synopsis and more. Until then hopefully you enjoy the cover!! 

Sweet Oil: The Ear Ache Remedy

I was recently telling some friends of mine that i woke up one morning and my sinuses has drained to my ears and i was in a lot of pain. I literally had the WORST ear ache ever!! Because I'm pregnant I'm against the used of any medicines. Well, honestly I'm against medicines even when not pregnant. I just believe your body can naturally fight off anything its against with no help. Unless your just dying, I believe in the natural way of taking care of yourself. However, my ear ache was so bad i went to the doctor to see what they would prescribe. Before i did i called my mom and she told me to get this lil brown bottle that I've never heard of called Sweet Oil. She's my mom and she's right sometimes but I wanted a second opinion so i went on to the doctor. The lady at the front desk said there was no need to waste money seeing the doctor and she too prescribed this Sweet Oil. Who would've guessed, this lil brown bottle could work wonders.Though its not recommended for cooking because it has not been purified. People do use it because it apparently soaks up fat. But yea, I bought it out from Wal Mart in the Pharmacy area but its sold in practically every pharmacy and drug store there is. Its about four dollars a bottle, but its worth having in your medicine cabinet. Trust me it works a miracle on an ear ache. All you have to do is pour a lil into the cap and pour it into your ear about 3 or 4 times a day. My ear ache actually was gone the next day!! Its considered a "Southern Remedy" and trust me it works.

Help Bring Online Grocery Shopping to Detroit Metro Area Residents

How does an online grocery store sound? Think about it - fresh produce delivered to your door as often as you would like, with just a click of a button!

Here is how you could help:
BUY A SHIRT!  Via  TeeSpring,  you can purchase the first edition tee for this campaign and simultaneously help raise money to open the Harvest Express warehouse.  We're turning a former liquor store into a distribution center for locally grown produce, meat, dairy and bakery items.
TWEET DAILY with the hashtag #foodDesertfresh to describe people, events, or organizations that are also helping to improve fresh food access in under served neighborhoods around the country.
TELL OTHERS so that we can meet our 1,000 sales goal in 16 Days! 

#foodDesertfresh Founder

Jenile Brooks, a Motor City native whose professional background is in television and film production — notes, there hasn’t been a single major grocery chain within Detroit’s city limits for years.

Through Harvest Express, Brooks, 30, aims to bring a modern day approach to shopping fresh. The business “grew out of my interest to better serve Detroit as a native of the city and someone who recognizes the pervasive reach of food, particularly as it relates to health and education,” she says. 

Formerly called Oasis Organics, Harvest Express is an online grocery that will offer delivery to businesses and homes throughout Detroit, focusing on Michigan-grown food, whether organic or not — produce and packaged goods at first, with plans soon to include meat, dairy, seafood, bread and assorted household items. Brooks is a 2003 graduate of Howard University,and has worked in broadcasting and film in New York for many years. She is now back to serve her city.

Turquoise Jeep Short Film: OOH AHH SOUND

I NEED Turquoise Jeep in my life from time to time! Thank You..

MOMENT: Jean-Michel Basquiat & Warhol

"I know one day I'll turn the corner and I won't be ready for it.” ~Jean-Michel Basquiat

F*cK Sallie Mae!

I keep hearing about all these stories of people who are paying off their student loans by the thousands, even one guy recently in cash that Sallie Mae didnt even want to accept. I really would love to sit down with these people and pick each of their brains because i am still trying to wrap my hands around how in the world i will ever pay off  the only debt i have! It's really ashamed when you have a dream to go to college and you come out with one of the biggest debts of your life and you spend your life being hassled, disrespected and denied because you owe bookoo of money. I got my education and until i can get a career that's going to appreciate my hard work enough to pay me enough to even pay monthly installments that are big enough to cut down my student loan debt; I say F*ck Sallie Mae!! She has ruined my life and the things i want to accomplish financially. I'll keep paying my mesly hundred a month. Student loans i swear is just a way to keep people who can't afford an education in a fish bowl...OOOhhh (shaking finger) but somehow, someway, I'm going to bust that B*** wide open one day. Until then I'm waiting on both President Obama to make what he said he'd make happen and for my life to change.

LeToya Luckett "Life, L♥ve & Music" Webisode 2

LATE BOOTS...I know!