HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Happy Halloween from everyone here at Bomb$hell. Hope everyone is safe tonight, don't drink and drink, don't eat to much candy, but have fun. Take care!

Argument Hour: Graf Part 1: Cover Up!

There's a lot to talk about, when it comes to graf, so I've split it up into several different argument hours. Here is your part 1.

A short Bomb$hell background:

The essence of what bomb$hell is, started off in graf. That's what it's been about. The idea of art, and underground movements, and the possibility of epidemic. We came up with the idea of bomb$hell, as a store, where we could share art, ideas, thoughts and what not. I'll stop there, because we're straight copyright. Nevertheless, to bomb, is to go out on the streets and spread your tag, your throwie, whatever but it was the idea of getting up there.

This segment of "Argument Hour: Graf" is to deal with the idea of the cover up. Basically, getting buffed out. Whether it be, getting sandblasted or painted over, or repaved, I've seen to many instances why this is horrible, so here is my argument.

1. True artists will reign supreme. You may see throwies all around, good bad, whatever. But as far as real graf goes, there is no need to paint over these little pieces, because at the end of the day, they'll get painted over by bigger better pieces. A throwie will get covered by a piece, a piece will get covered by some wildstyle, but whatever is best will come out on top.
2. More harm than good. We'll all see these walls, that are covered with off colored blocks. The failed attempts of the city/transportation agency, to cover up art work put up by legitamite artists, or at times artists in training. Isn't it true that at times, all these blocks look a lot more horrible than what it is covering.
   
3. Environment. One of the reasons why I love San Francisco so much, is that you can walk around town and see all this beautiful artwork up. Whether it be just words or pictures, but it's all around. It's on walls, on trucks, in buildings and out. They have let the true artists reign supreme. Work that provokes thought, engages the eye and adds to the overall equity of the city. It's what I've come to expect from "the city". And I look forward to every trip.

Look, I'm not advocating tagging on people's homes, on children's hang outs. But where there is nothing really going on. Why not? Why not allow people to perform their talents and get people to enjoy every little crevice of the earth. You judge for yourself. But as for me. I feel that sometimes, you got to let it run its course and allow this work to keep getting better and better

The RZA Breaks Down Kung-Fu Samples

Audio of RZA talking about the samples he used from classic kung-fu flicks. The Eight Diagram Pole Fighter might have been the most inspiring. (Link)

Events: 10 Year Anniversary

So last Friday, the 10 year anniversary performance for Chain Reaction & B'Syde/SickSyde/JaneDoe at Voodoo went down. And let me tell you what. That ish was poppin.

It was the spot to be that night, with attendance at the top of nearly all San Jose venues that night. Voodoo really held it down. Everyone from the performers to the bathroom attendant Tyson were gettin down. All good vibes and friendly people.

I admit, I was hesitant, surrounded by dancers, how would I look tryin to get down with them. But it was perfect. People started trickling in at around 9:00 and by 10:00-10:30, the line outside was at least 70 people deep. The performance went down at 11:30, and I must say they haven't missed a beat. The same commitment to excellence and performance were apparent. I admit I'm a bit biased, but I'm sure anyone there that night would agree.

The dancing went on til' nearly 2:30 and the fun didn't stop til' even later. Big ups to everyone who performed, everyone who showed up and everyone who showed love.

Here're some pics so you can see how it went. Thanks Em!

Vic, Guzzie, TK, BT & Navy

Navy, TK, Michelle , Greg
Sicksyde
And Again
Ro!
Ryan, JD, Joe outback, Darryl, William
Chump, Ness, Jermaine, William, Anna, Darryl

Whatever Happened To: Quarter Bags

I remember when I was in Elementary school, I would walk to the AM PM, down the street from my house and get some chips. It was a rare occasion. My mom is a pretty strict parent, and she liked to keep tabs. So I would sneak on over to AM PM after school for a quick moment and grab a few goodies. A slurpee here, or maybe a pack of basketball cards there, but defintely the quarter bags of chips. From cheetos to frito lays, they had so many different kinds

But what ever happened to the quarter bags of chips! I need answers! ANSWERS!

I am going to do some research, but any information you can find about this subject, you're going to have to let me know!

He said, she said...

"Life is not the amount of breaths you take, it's the moments that take your breath away."

-Hitch (movie)

He said, she said...

To add on Jello's argument hour....

"Life is a blast when you know what you're doin. Best to know what you're doin 'fore your life get ruined. Life is a thrill when your skill is developed, if you ain't got a skill or trade, then shut the hell up."

-Hieroglyphics, Del

Argument Hour - Professions

I admit the idea for this post came from a friends blog. But that's what I'm all about right? Provoking thought gangster.

Nevertheless. It's weird to see that people cannot be passionate about what they do. In any situation. In respects to my friend's post, it's weird that some doctors and some people studying to be doctors aren't in it for the right reasons. I really truly believe that anyone can do whatever they put their mind to. Although it may be hard to do, if you really have a passion for it, you can get it accomplished. This is way beyond grades and higher education, but just within your desire, and dedication.

Would you want someone taking care of you who didn't really want to? Now apply this to any situation. Would you want a doctor to handle your illness, without caring if you get better or not? Would you want someone to sell you a car when he really doesn't care to? Think of the quality of what you're getting.

I recently worked at circuit city, and it had its perks. But, I only worked there for a good 3 days and I couldn't stand it. Why? Everyone lacked emotion. I would talk to people, and they wouldn't answer back. I'd ask for direction and they would go off and do their own thing. I understand that sometimes, life can be mundane, and things aren't what you expect it to be. But this is all within perception people. I could have learned all that stuff by myself, and been that lively person at the store. But this circuit city was beyond repair. From the management on down to the salespeople, everyone went about their work day like robots. This wasn't the problem. The problem was that all this transferred out to their products, and their store.

Truth shines above all else, people can see when you're being sincere. Some are better at faking it, but you can still tell. So liven up. A simple smile, a warmer tone of voice or a sincere "How are you?" Could bring back more conversation to perhaps brighten up your day.

So as far as professions go here is my point:

• Go into your jobs, however mundane it may be, and do it. To the best of your ability. With the thought that what you do, affects everyone. I know that this is easier said than done, but nonetheless, at least try. Put a smile on, help people if they need it or get to know them. This is what you chose for your life. I'm not talking jobs, this is your bread and butter. Because passion is powerful. Doctors get to know your patients, salespeople get to know your customer. We are all in this world together, so having passion and conviction and putting it into your work benefits everyone, including you.
  

Argument Hour - Originality

Ever wondered...
Who started wearing fitted caps with the stickers still on them?
Who first decided to eat their fries with cheese and onions like some kind of animal?
Who thought spinning on their head was so cool?

In a tired media driven world, we seem to believe anything new we do is originial. It may be cool and new, but is it true originality? When Avril Lavigne wore a tie when she performed, was she being orginal? Or was her sense of fashion influenced by the society that nutured her? We are the person we are today because of the events and experiences we encountered when growing up in our society. Our society itself influences what we wear, how we talk, how we dance, and more importantly, who we are as a person. So in a way, no matter what we decided to do that is new and differnent, it is not truely original (arising or proceeding independently of anything else), it has some influence by the society.

So who wore red authentic vans first? Who knows? Who cares? If you were the first one, all that means is that you were the first one. You weren't being original. It was bound to happen anyways. Our society brought about that kind of style. If you grew up in an African tribe, you wouldn't wear red vans. You wouldn't think anything close to sneakers. But man... think of it, if you're the first one, you'd be cool. Ha, everyone would laugh at you. Why? Cause that specific society doesn't see that as style. No matter how you like to think of it, you have your style because of your society, or media for that matter.

All in all, orginality is never orginal. It's just misused. But I mean, thats all in my head. I'm sure you have your ideas about the subject. For all I know, I could be completely wrong and stupid. If you think I am, then tell me. And this is all just ideas. Ideas are meant to be challenged. If you have a good rebuttal, then bring it. We will debate. We don't call it argument hour cause it sounds cute.

He said, she said...

" Why worry about tomorrow, when you can do something about it today?"

- Seen on Cartoon Network

"Eat now, laugh later"

"EAT NOW, LAUGH LATER"

is a night of...

* Filipino Vegan/ Vegetarian 3 course meal *
* Cooking Demo by No Worries Cuisine Chef Jay-Ar Isagani Pugao
* Followed by desert and STAND UP COMEDY with Kevin Camia & more

Friday October 26, 2007 (this friday!)
Bayanihan Community Center
1010 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94103

Entourage Entertainment presents No Worries Cuisine's, "Eat Now, Laugh Later!" A night consisting of a 3 course vegan/vegetarian Filipino meal, a cooking demo , and stand-up comedians to make your tummy hurt after you've filled it. You will enjoy an appetizer, a main entree, and dessert to cap off the night. The main entree will be provided and demonstrated by Jay-Ar Isagani who has been catering small and large events, providing cooking workshops for high schools, and have been donating to various community functions including non-profit organizations, to local hip hop artists, schools, the veterans and elderly throughout the bay area for 7 years. His experience in innovating Filipino food has captured quite a following. Come and taste the flavors, join the laughter, and enjoy a dinner party that will captivate all your senses!

check the flier.
click here to purchase tickets online* RESERVE NOW! seats are going fast
www.brownpapertickets.com/event/21613

HEY look, DEAD PREZ loves it too. Check it out.

Events: Classes in SF

Popping classes with Bionic in San Francisco on Thursday, October 25th.

B-boy/B-girl classes with Crykit in San Francisco Starting Wednesday November 7th

Movies: The Darjeeling Limited

A movie that encourages thought? To be honest, I have not watched this movie, but I have read a bit about it, and actually after reading a recent article in USA Today, have a renewed passion to go watch the movie. The open ended plot to the movie leaves a lot to question. For example, why does Bill Murray show up in the beginning of the movie? Or what is with the little snippet "Hotel Chevalier" before the film have to do with anything? Why does Natalie Portman have bruises? And what exactly is the movie about? Just a few questions to provoke thought. So if you've seen the movie, let us know what you think?

Argument Hour - Hunting

This is for Kenneth, because I'm sure he'll love it, that hunting bastard!

For those who consider hunting brutal, and unnecessary, I ask you to rethink your view. As part two of the argument hour begins, and another seemingly needless argument takes place, I hope you once again view life at all different angles. So as hunting is becoming a more and more extinct past time, it has in turn affected animals that are endangered. How does the elimination of a hobby that kills animals, actually hurt animals? The reason is that, a good portion of the money earned from the sales of hunting licenses goes to national wildlife preserves around the country. Now with hunting on the decline, funding for these reserves is following suit. Hunting is a highly regulated sport. With limited time frames to actually go out and hunt, as well as the costs and fees a person has to pay to actually get out there, there is actually a very limited amount of killing being done. So with these regulations, and the funding that hunting brings, can hunting actually help the animal kingdom?

Reminder: I in no way agree or disagree with what I am saying, I'm leaving it for your own interpretation. If you want to go hunt. That's on you!

And the other ones: BET awards cipher

I told you it was hot, check out the other two. Chyeup!

He said, she said

He said, she said...

"Truth is the power to resurrect the mentally dead from their state of unawareness."

- Planet Asia

Music: Cipher

I don't know if you saw it, but the BET awards got down yesterday. They had three short segments, of real MCs atop New York rooftops, all up in the Ciphe. And that shit was hot. Anywhere from Ras Cass to Phonte to Twista, they hit it up, just lighting up the circle with an intense beat.




here's the one I could find, the last of the three. But it was hot.

Immortal Technique on Racism

Don't let the length of it deter you from reading it, it's some good stuff. Link

I begin this new installment today by apologizing in advance for the incomplete nature of the subject matter being presented. I seek only to give brief examples and not go too in depth into slavery or racism but more so to discuss why we who were once the victims of this and other American’s still hold onto the idea of Race. I correlate this stubborn inability to let go with the very way in which slavery and racism became a part of this nation. Explaining the difference between the institution’s past, present and future will hopefully help us to understand how to fight it and overcome it, as it remains alive not just in visible places like Jena Louisiana but all over the world as well. We are only given a glimpse of Racism when looking at Black and Brown issues of inequality in America. Prejudice continues to flourish globally for a variety of reasons. But to further explain how Racism, which is the institutionalized belief and law-backed ideology of racial superiority) came to outlast the very condition of slavery from which most people see it originate from we must go back to the beginning. We must go back before the times of our own Empire and subsequent Corporate Republic.

The Argument Hour

So I was bored one day and thought of the idea of a tv show called the marketing perspective. Where people basically sold people things that really did not selling. The whole concept was, that a good marketer, would be able to place a product somewhere that it would make money, or be able to be sold. So I'm going to work that whole thing out on this blog with something I'd like to call the argument hour.

And today's show!

"Unorigniality = Originality"

In this day in age, where everyone is trying to be different. Aren't you being different by following the trends and being unoriginal. Everyone goes to hypebeast, thrift stores, concerts or whatever. And when you buy clothes at these places, what're you getting? You're getting proof that you've been here or there and someone else hasn't. You're buying clothes at thrift stores, that were once used but are no longer widely distributed. You're getting whatever hypebeast tells you, because their style is different. They know of the latest trends and fashions that you can't find at Macy's or Target or most malls. You're buying individuality. And everyone is doing it. So in turn, would you not be different by doing what the norm does. Because the norm is based off of majority, but they act based on belief. Therefore, if all of their beliefs are coincidentally the same, then you are straying away from the norm by believing otherwise.

This is not what I'm advocating, but this is what I'm selling. So if you want to buy it, do some fuckin research!
PEACE!

He said, she said

Hello hello.
Just wanted to introduce myself. As some of you may know, I am nar and I would like to say thank you to marcus and all of the bloggers to allow me to join the crew. I see good stuff coming from this and I hope to add pepper to the pot. Yea I don't know, but I am going to start off by posting a quote randomly every now and then. Just want to give you, the readers, something small to look at. And hey, it might spark a thought or two. We will call it...


He said, she said...

"I'd rather be a pro at being myself than be an idiot trying to be someone else."

- Soul Position, Blueprint

Coming up next week..

The annual San Jose Tattoo Convention!


There will be a lot of great artists demonstrating their skills, lots of live tattooing and all that jazz. If you're thinking about getting a tattoo and you're not sure on what you want, or who you want it from, this is a great opportunity to see a broad range of tattoos and maybe you'll find what you wanted but could never find anywhere else. Maybe we'll see you there!

Jello on a streak right now, I like that. There are a lot of problems with this nation of ours, and thinking about it too much will drive you crazy. That's why I haven't been posting as much. Just straight chillin with the people I know and love. Trying to get a grip on things. But I'll be back on this blog joint real soon..

Fall is upon us, who's ready? I know I need some more jackets! Shit is freezing cold out there, so stay warm. The rain is coming, check your wipers people (Peter) and check your tires. I can say that from experience. I love the Autumn though, it's my favorite season, leaves falling, wind blowing and shit.. Haha but yo I'm gunna keep this one short. Peace ya'll!

Median & Little Brother

Two CDs to hit up mos def

Median - Relief

Little Brother - Get Back

I first heard of this cat Median on Little Brother's album. One of the members of J-league But then again on this podcast I used to listen to at work. I listened to Rize, a pre-release from Relief, and let me tell you that track was something else. For me, this is where I get my influence from. Tracks like Median's with lyrics based on the possibilities. What could happen, how the world is and what ifs? The shit is hot. But definitely check out some of his stuff, and support what you want to support. As for me, I think it's about time I get down on this ish

Little Brother. First introduced to me, by my friend. I admit I didn't pick up the first few albums until after I burned them off a friend. But they got me going. They brought style a skill back into hip-hop. They're an intellectual duo, with a lot more to talk about than money and bitches. So since I've yet to listen to this CD, am interested to hear how Phonte and Big Pooh got down on this without 9th Wonder.

The Helping Hand: Bomb$hell Teamwork?

I've been posting like crazy. But why? In hopes that you'll get out of your seat, so that I can stop sitting in mine. And I think I found a good way to do that. Let's team up! Bomb$hell readers, friends, family or whatever. It's time that we join together and do something positive to help a cause.

The Alliance for Lupus Research is allowing fans of the late great J Dilla, to form "J Dilla Project" teams. And what would these teams do? It's simple

1. Raise awareness of Lupus
2. Provide support for the participants in The Alliance for Lupus Research's Walk-a-thon
3. Walk in the actual walk-a-thon

So how about we do this people? Get a team signed up? And actually walk? It's up to you, and it's for a good cause.

For more information check out the website Alliance for Lupus Research

The locations are as follows for Bomb$hell locales!

• Los Angeles - Nov 17th @ Crescent Bay Park, Santa Monica registration starts at 9a.m
• San Francisco - Nov 3rd @ Justin Herman Plaza registration starts at 9a.m

BRING THEM WALKIN SHOES!

Why everything is good.

Because I really don't know what else to say, and there has been little feedback on what you actually want to hear. I thought I'd give this a shot. I've been a bit of a downer lately, expressing where everything could be better and how I think people are ignorant. But this post is going to be on why everything is good. I bet I can give you a reason why everything has a positive, and perhaps give you insight on viewing the world in a little brighter light.




Why America is Amazing!
I think I'll start off with what Jess said. We're comfortable. We are the most self confident country in the world. We do what we want and we really don't care too much what other people think about it. We're okay with not knowing everything, because we live in the land of opportunity. The American Dream! That is always an option for us. Why because we live here?

This is the one place on earth where they encourage you by saying, "You can do anything you put your mind to". And I actually really believe that. I once heard that a problem is only a problem if you make it one. That is something to live by. Don't let the world get you down, because you're in charge of that. Things may get tough, but they get tough for a reason. Things can't be great unless you have lesser things to compare it to. So take it all in, the good and the bad, and realize that all these things will happen. But when something horrible happens, try to see the bright side, and the possibility in it all and change your point of view. Maybe there is a happier or better stance you can take.

Music: Just because

So I decided to just post something, because there hasn't been any feedback, and I figure , we need to see what you people think. What do you want to hear about? What's important to you? Because I guess there are some things that you aren't ready to hear about. So listen to this freestyle on the last episode of Yo! MTV Raps. Let us know what you want to hear. And..

check out this CD. Beyond Reasonable Doubt. Put out by Dame Dash, and some other old school Roc members, busting shit out over some Jay-Z beats

Thoughts: Niche

Something new. Just a little bit different. A new town, no clue what to do, and hour upon hours of free time. So what did I do yesterday? What I do best. I got messed up! But did somethin other than sit around.



I was invited to a comedy show at the improv. And I was excited. It had been a while, and I wasn't sure what to expect. And as you normally do when you're a bit inebriated. You get lost. And goodness was I lost. But as with most weekends, you just go with it. And that is what I did. We rolled down Brea boulevard to a part of town I had never been before. Blinding lights and loads of people, with a group of people I had never been out with before, and I didn't know whether to be scared or to just enjoy the fact that I had something to do this weekend. It started off good, parked in the garage, reminiscent of my days goin downtown in San Jose. And there I was, downtown Brea, ready to figure this scene out. Luckily, my roommate and his friends had it all figured out. Show up late, sit a little farther back, and don't wait in line. They even got me my tickets from the box office so I didn't have to deal with people while under the influence. It was perfect, people all around, warm up videos, a house comedian, a surprise guest and a cheap ticket. The venue was perfect. Seated at tables, so it had more of a friendly feel. Seated right near someone else, positioned so you could mingle. Some one at my back, a person to my right, people right across from me and happy hour drink prices for those ready to get down. It couldn't be any more fun.

I think I've found my new favorite thing to do...

laughing makes life go by smoother..

Argument Hour: Where America Can Do Better 2

Addition

Media:
The American media has an important role. They are the gateway to information for many people who do not have the time to research every little aspect of life. I think that it is within this we need more probing news. I do not doubt that the news prods and pokes at different things. But, there are definitely segments of their broadcast that are needless. You do not need to criticize and ridicule everything that Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton or Britney Spears does. Leave that to Entertainment News or Access Hollywood.

As far as CNN and Fox News goes, this will never happen, but I have some ideas. Fuck this whole biased shit. Don't skew your reports to seem more liberal, more conservative, more this or more that. Just report the fuckin news. Let us decide for ourselves. You are just allowing the United States to become dumb. They're beginning to believe everything and I mean everything you say, and spitting it back out like it is their own knowledge. That's why I say question what you hear. There are too many ways for people to speak to get what they want. Read the Tipping Point, or take a stats class, or even a business writing class. They'll show you how you can speak to get what you want. But all this bias does, is make us resort to pettiness.

If all the news companies could speak like this to convey their way, then they are going to find any means to one up the competition. You know what then ends up happening? "This company is ignorant." or "That candidate is an idiot." Is this not what happened to Bush. Like I said, spit it back out. Bush is an idiot why? Because he's not a good public speaker? Just because he sounds like one? Or because you disagree with the war in Iraq? Or because that's how the media portrays him?

I don't know, sometimes all this stuff just seems a little too convenient!

COMING SOON!
Candidate Overviews. Pros and Cons of who you could vote for, if you actually decide to get up and vote!

Events

Bay Area
Hunting Season II
@ Alum Rock Youth Center
10/13/2007
4:00P.M

Little Brother
@ Independent in SF
11/08/2007
9:00P.M

Aloe Blacc & Los Rakas
@ Shattuck Down Low in Berkeley
10/27/2007
9:30P.M

Ghostface Killah ft Brother Ali, Rakim & Rhythim Roots
@ Mezzanine in SF
11/02/2007
9:00P.M

O.C.

Aesop Rock
@The Music Box at the Fonda in Hollywood
10/12/2007
8:00P.M

Q-Tip
@Key Club in Los Angeles
10/14/2007
7:30P.M

Pharoahe Monch
@Knitting Factory in Hollywood
10/23/2007
8:00P.M
@The Rhythim Lounge in Long Beach
10/26/2007
8:00P.M

Blackalicious
@Roxy Theater in Hollywood
10/24/2007
8:00P.M

Tech N9ne
@Key Club in Los Angeles
10/24/2007
8:00P.M

Ghostface Killah ft Rakim & Brother Ali
@ HOB Sunset Strip in Hollywood
10/29/2007
8:00P.M

Jill Scott
@ HOB Sunset Strip in Hollywood
10/16/2007
10/17/2007
10/18/2007
10/20/2007
8:00P.M

Boyz II Men
@Canyon Club in Aguora Hills
10/19/2007
8:00P.M

Amel Larrieux
@B.B. King's Blues Club in Universal City
10/28/2007
9:00P.M

KRS-ONE Talks @ Hip Hop Honors

What do you guys think?

Thoughts: A Shot At Love

So at this moment, I am watching A Shot At Love With Tila Tequila. Don't ask why, it's just on. But there are definitely a couple things I got to say bout this breezie. I don't doubt that she is a self made entrepreneur and a strong woman who speaks her mind, but sometimes I feel like she has no clue what the fuck she is talking about. So I am here to analyze the dichotomy of her personality.

She is a self made star, who seemingly has no clue what she wants. Yes, she is the star of myspace, a model, a musician and now the head of her very own TV show. But one look at any of her posts on myspace tells a whole different story. Shoot, you can take one look at her show and realize, she really doesn't have a clue what she wants her life to be. Does she want to be a musician? Does she want to be a star of the screen? Does she want to be a model? I don't doubt that she can be all these things at the same time, but what I do question, is she spectacular at any of these things? I'm not hating because as much as I wish I could be any of these things, I can't. But I look at her and she just seems lost. She doesn't seem truly happy to me. And to me at least, I think that is what life is all about. Money and fame doesn't necessarily mean happiness. I look at Tila and she seems to be the epitome of that.

I remember reading a bulletin she wrote about how dumb this guy at the club was. How she got into some fight in line for the bathroom, and how she hates life and this and that. It was frustrating. First of all, it's okay to speak your mind, and I give her props for that. But there are definitely some times where it is better to hold your tongue. She started this fight for a spot in the bathroom line. Sure get mad, but actually throwing down for a spot in line is ridiculous? I think a little growing up, and a little better understand of people is in order.

Random Ramblings, but the show is ridiculous. Try watching:
Colbert Report
Daily Show
Jeopardy
CNN
something, anything that isn't mind numbingly pointless
information and being informed is vital

Argument Hour: Where America Can Do Better..

I've been holding off on this, because I have been too lazy to actually do some research, and back my theories up. But I finally just decided to say screw it, and speak my mind.

In my opinion there are many things that America is lacking. And it is in this that I have some solutions. Yes these solutions are not necessarily easy, but are nice to keep in mind when you are passing by someone on the street. So here it is.

Unity.
America lacks unity. Look at the political parties, and how divided the polls have been the past elections. When was the last time you saw a majority of America stand behind something. Anything.

Knowledge.
America lacks knowledge. How many of you can name more than 4 people running for president next year. How may of you can name their stances on various subjects. Stop focusing on what clothes you are wearing, or what Lindsay Lohan is doing and go read a fuckin book. Or how about you watch CNN instead of MTV, even the Colbert Report or the Daily Show. At least they cover stuff relevant to your life. It's your country, it has to do with you! Many of you go out there and say you hate Bush, and that he is an idiot, but the second you are asked why, you stutter. I am not advocating anything that Bush has done, but I am not putting any of it down either. I want you to go out there and figure that out your damn self. Shoot, if you don't want to read a book, there are many different sources you can go to, to get information on the subject, NPR, the various movies made, and there is always youtube. Haha. Which brings me to my next subject

Conviction.
America lacks conviction. The strength to stand by what we believe, no matter what happens. We too readily take in information and just spit it back out as if it were always true. Find out what you believe,
and stick by it. Even better stand up for what you believe in. Look at the various movements over time, and what these people fought for. For example, the right to vote. People fought and died for this opportunity, and we can even find the decency to know who is running. You don't like the war? Stop just saying shit and do something about it. You don't like it that much, well there are measures you can take.

Values
When I was growing up, there were family values everywhere. From Step by Step to Full House. We made fun of dysfunctional families and glorified the good old fashioned ones. I know that this is getting harder and harder to deal with, taking into account longer work days, single parent homes and the need for both parents to work. But there are things that you can do. For one, don't have a kid until you're ready. Duh! Geniuses. But if you do decide to have one, how about you teach them some manners. Don't hesitate to put your kid in their place. Yeah they may cry, and who cares if they embarrass you at the store. You need to teach your kids that they can't do whatever they want, and that there is something out there called manners. How about you reorganize your priorities, and put family a little bit higher up there. Thanks. Also, there is such thing as American values, when was the last time these values were reinforced, revised or even spoken of. Can we recall what they are?

Safety
We lack the sense of safety. Or maybe it is just because we are so insecure. When was the last time you saw more than 4 or 5 groups of people come through your house on Halloween. When was the last time you talked to someone you were stuck in an elevator with or you bump into. All these electronics have shut us off from each other. We text instead of call, we walk past without a nod or a smile and we had to create a law just to help others out. I'm talking good Samaritans, we should not have to be forced to good things. Is it that hard to help another person out. We've been molded to act like this so break the fuckin mold. I mean, everyone is a little too stuck on self image to realize, that life is so much more than, material goods. What's the point in having all this shit if you're not having fun. Meet people, learn what they've been through, and understand that the world doesn't revolve around you.


I don't know what you think. But this is what I think. So say what you will, it is all opinion. In fact, I'd love to hear what your thoughts are. Put me in my place, I don't mind it, but don't mind me if I do the same to you

Skin Vandals Exhibit

Before I post some pictures from last night's Skin Vandals Exhibit I wanna say thanks to Bryan and Anna again for that fine piece of art they gave to me for my birthday present. I fucking love it!


So last night me and some of the homies and homegirls went to go check out Anno Domini. It was the opening night for their Skin Vandals Exhibit showcasing works from Tattooers , Graf Writers and Fine Artists. It's a dope exhibit so you should check it out if you have time. It's on thru the 27th of this month.

Events: Bomb$hell On the Come Up

Ey though I just wanted to say, Happy Birthday to our Bomb$hell gangster Marcus Bui. Hap Berf homie, hold it down in the bay, hit up them 21+ events and show the world how we get down.

Finally Made It! Haha... enjoy that dinner tonight!

The Helping Hand: Soda

Locations Near You

I was at a job interview and found something out today, that I did not know before. So before you throw your aluminum cans away do me a favor and save the pop tabs. In terms of helping out, there isn't much that you have to do in this case.

So here's what you do. Click the Locations Near You link and see if the McDonald's house near you participates in this program. If not then e-mail ngc@concentric.net so that you can get a cardboard house to place your collected pop tabs from soda cans. Once you have collected enough tabs, the Ronald McDonald house program will donate a wheel chair to those in need. It's not too hard to collect them, they're less than an inch squared, and you can keep them in your pocket. You know you drink soda, and now you can help people as you drink.

And for all you beer drinkers same thing gangster. Just a thought, but definitely a good one. So hit it up

Wu-Tang 8 Diagram Breakdown by The Rza

Personally, I can't fucking wait for this album to drop. I'm very excited.

REUNITED
With the whole Clan ready to swarm, RZA proves why Wu-Tang still ain't nothin' to **** wit'!

FOR RZA, ENTERING the Wu-Tang Clan's fifth chamber has been tougher than Chinese arithmetic. Ever since the iconic supergroup dropped their fourth disc, Iron Flag, in 2001, varying degrees of drama-ranging from Ol' Dirty's death in '04 to Ghostface's hesitancy to lay vocals-delayed Wu's long-awaited comeback. Despite their differences, the Clan once again formed like Voltron to work on 8 Diagrams, a disc chock full of Ghostface verses, kung fu samples and even a new "torture" skit. Not since "Da Mystery of Chessboxin'" has the Clan held such a carefully guarded secret. The Abbot sheds light.

"LIFE CHANGES" PRODUCED BY RZA
That's a song that we dedicated to ODB. I put together an old Freda Payne sample and classic Wu-sounding drums. We originally started it for Dirty's album that never came out. Each Clan member says eight bars a piece to Dirty. It starts off with Method Man, and he has this one line that I love: "Ol' Dirty, in your honor/I've grown a fetish for loose women and baby mamas."

"YOU CAN'T STOP ME NOW" PRODUCED BY RZA
It sounds like a black western. I had John Frusciante [of Red Hot Chili Peppers] play lead guitar. The sample we played over comes from an old song, "Message to the Black Man." There's been many versions, but we referenced a reggae one. I rap on this, and I'm talking about how I started off as a smalltime hustler, but kept going, amidst death threats. To fight depression, I would make beats that became songs, which became hits. Then, Rebel INS and Ghostface come on.

"THUG WORLD" PRODUCED BY RZA
That's just hardcore, ghetto. [System of a Down member] Shavo Odadjian's bass-playing is crazy on this. The beat is just ****in' wild cowboy-style. Deck sets it off, Raekwon and myself have ill verses on it, and U-God comes in. I'd compare the beat's energy to "Method Man."

"WATCH YOUR MOUTH" PRODUCED BY DJ SCRATCH, CO-PRODUCED BY RZA
This is potentially the first single. Scratch came in with some beats he had made with Wu-Tang in mind. But for this album, I've been using instrumentation, so I added those elements to Scratch's beat. Every Clan member threw a verse on it. It's a throwback to "Protect Ya Neck," with that same impulse. The original title was "You Better Watch Your Mutha****in' Mouth," but that wouldn't work for radio.

"TITLE TBD" PRODUCED BY RZA
I love The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." I've always been warned not to sample Beatles songs because you can't clear them, but I wanted to take a chance. I had a mutual friend link me with Dhani Harrison, George's son, who just happens to be a huge Wu fan. I thought, imagine if George Harrison's son played on a new version of his father's song. Meth, Rae, and Ghost are on it, each [offering] a different perspective [on] the dope game. The Beatles meets Wu-Tang, on a song about drugs? That's incredible.

"WOLVES" PRODUCED BY RZA
There's Method Man, Masta Killa and U-God. The way U-God sets this ****in' record off...he's underated, but he won't be after this album. He's as powerful on this song as "Raw I'ma give it to ya, with no trivia" [from "Da Mystery of Chessboxin'"]. The beat has a vocal sample for pulse, and I used a multi-layered clap snare. I played guitar myself on it, and DJ Mathematics scratched some ODB vocals. DJ Scratch's brother is a trumpet player, and he plays a line I wrote.

"TAKE IT BACK" PRODUCED BY EASY MO BEE, CO-PRODUCED BY RZA
I had to make a confession to Mo-he's the first person I ever saw with an SP-1200. He produced the B-side to my first single, "Ohh, We Love You Rakeem," as well as GZA's [Words from the Genius]. He's the one who inspired me to get an SP-1200; he helped me become a producer. At first, he just played drums on "Campfire" [another 8 Diagrams track], but then he played me a beat, and I had the Clan rip it up, talking about what's missing in the game today-the heart

-Taken from Scratch Magazine