Brandy and Monica Reunite in Music

January 18, 2012
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 14 years since Brandy and Monica collaborated with their Grammy-award winning hit, “The Boy Is Mine.” What’s even more difficult to believe is that was the same year I graduated from high school, but who’s counting the years? Anyway, the R&B diva duo is back with a single, “It All Belongs To Me,” which is set to release February 6 on RCA Records. 
The multi-platinum artists worked with Rico Love who wrote and produced the track. The song, which will appear on Monica’s forthcoming album, “New Life” March 6, as well as on Brandy’s yet-to-be-titled release later this spring. 
Will you be listening for this reunited collaboration? Were you a fan of “The Boy Is Mine?”
Category: Arts and Entertainment | 3 Comments

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January 16, 2012

Even though he left this earth over 40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s memory and legacy are still alive today. We BGs and guys should be especially grateful for his contribution toward making our lives better in this country. His unyielding desire for all people to be treated equally despite the color of their skin was remarkable. If it weren’t for his courage and others civil rights activists like him, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Take a moment out of your day to stop and reflect and honor this outstanding man’s legacy. Be sure to check out your local newpapers or go online to find MLK-related events taking place in your area today.

He may be gone physically, but his dream will live forever!

Have you visited the MLK Memorial in D.C? Are you planning to visit sometime this year?

Category: Misc. | 1 Comment

Get Twisted: GIVEAWAY Twisted Sista Hair care Collection

January 13, 2012

Being a naturalista, I’m always trying various products in the hopes of finding the perfect shampoo or that conditioner that I’ll love unconditionally. While there are many brands that work for my hair type, Twisted Sista is the latest line to positively speak to my strands.

Even though the Vitamin E-enriched formula complements my kinky/curly texture, it’s for all hair types. Whether curly, thick, natural, or chemically straightened, this London favorite caters to women with varying hair needs, but who ultimately want frizz-free tresses.

My favorite product from the collection is the curl activator. It helps define and moisturize my curls without weighing them down. Plus, it has a pleasant subtle scent that doesn’t offend my senses. 
Have you tried Twisted Sista Hair care Products? If you want to try,  5 LUCKY READERS will win the entire line which includes: De-Frizz Shampoo, De-Frizz Conditioner, Curl Activator, 30 Seconds Curls Spray, Blow Drying Creme, and Different Strokes Serum. Simply retweet this link and/or leave a comment. 
Category: Beauty, Giveaway | 21 Comments

EBONY Launches Vintage Tumblr

January 12, 2012

If you’re a fan of fashion, celebrity photography, vintage ads, and all things related to the African-American experience from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s, EBONY magazine’s newly launched Tumblr will be your go-to destination for old-school inspiration.

The beautifully poised Dorothy Dandridge gracing the June 1962 cover.

Will you be checking out their Tumblr?
Category: Misc. | 2 Comments

Game Face

January 11, 2012

With the start of The Game’s 5th season last night, I’m sure most viewers tuned in to see what’s in store for Melanie and Derwin and the rest of the characters, but being a beauty buff, I’m always admiring the cast’s makeup.

All of the actresses usually sport a flawless face; especially Tia Mowry. When I caught up with the new mom last year, she divulged that the key to her natural beauty is simple: “I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep and drink a lot of water,” she said.

While downing water and getting enough sleep may not be all we need to look camera-ready everyday, here are a few products that will help you get a fresh-faced, radiant glow similar to the one that our favorite Game character rocks:

Clockwise from Top Left: Organic 2-in-1 Bronzer & Blush available here; Too Faced Natural Kiss Natural Color Collection available here; Physician’s Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Ultra Black Mascara available here; Too Faced Neutral Eye Shadow Collection available here; Bare Minerals Natural Lip Gloss available here; Shiseido Natural Eyebrow Pencil available here; Tarte Cheek Stain available here. 
Do you prefer natural-looking cosmetics or are you more adventurous with your makeup routine? 
Category: Beauty | 5 Comments

Cocoa Cure

January 10, 2012

While chocolate typically serves as an one of the most delicious indulgences on the planet, it also boasts a bounty of beauty benefits. The cocoa plant is rich in anti-oxidants, which provides natural skin-enhancing properties. Plus, it’s packed with magnesium and vitamin B1 that are known to produce calming effects.

From slowing down the appearance of Mother Nature’s aging process to stress-relief to filling heart-shaped boxes, cocoa and chocolate can be a woman’s secret beauty weapon and ultimate sweet-tooth fix.

Check out some of these cocoa-enriched beauty picks:

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Whipped Souffle Shea Cocoa Butter available at www.walgreens.com for $8.50

Chocolala Massage Bars available at www.lushusa.com for $12.95

Cocoa Butter Hand & Body Lotion available at www.thebodyshop.com for $12

Carol’s Daughter Chocolat Smooth Curly to Straight Set available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $54

Yuzu & Cocoa Bubbleroon available at www.lushusa.com for $5.95

L’Occitane Limited Edition Cocoa Flower Ultra Rich Body Cream available at www.usaloccitane.com for $24

Hurraw Chocoloate Lip Balm available at www.americanapparel.com for $.3.80
Ron Robinson 100% Pure Organic Cocoa Kona Coffee Body Scrub available at www.ronrobinson.com for $25
Vaseline Vitalizing Gel Body Oil available at www.walgreens.com for $7.50

Are you a chocolate lover? Do you purchase cocoa-based products?

Category: Beauty | 3 Comments

Beyonce Welcomes Baby Girl Blue Ivy

January 8, 2012

The princess of hip-hop and R&B royalty has arrived. Beyonce gave birth to baby girl Blue Ivy Carter on Saturday. It is the first child for the superstar singer and her hip-hop mogul husband, Jay-Z who have been married since 2008. Hopefully, the birth their daughter will finally silence the ever-present conspiracy theory chatter about her pregnancy on the blogosphere.

Congratulations to the power couple!

Do you like the name Blue Ivy? Do you think “Ivy” comes from their fascination with the number “IV” or “4” as some blog readers have speculated?

Check out the super cute song proud papa Jay-Z recorded for his glorious bundle of joy here. 

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 7 Comments

Cool Kicks to Kickstart Your Cardio Plan

January 6, 2012

If those weight loss commercials featuring divas Janet Jackson, Jennifer Hudson, and Mariah Carey have motivated you to kick-start your New Year by getting fit, check out these cute sneaks that will have you hitting the pavement and gym in style.

Nike Women’s Air Max Moto +9 Running Sneakers available at www.macys.com for $95

Puma Women’s Faas 250 Running Sneaker available at www.endless.com for $46.75
Puma Future Cat M1 Big Cat Ferrari Fashion Sneaker available at www.endless.com for $75

Nike Women’s Air Relentless Sneaker available at www.macys.com for $65

New Balance Women’s 442 Sneaker available at www.dsw.com for $50
Y-3 Running Sneakers available at www.ssense.com for $130

Adidas Women’s L.A Trainer W Sneakers available at www.macys.com for $49
Alexander Wang ‘Dillon’ Sneaker available at www.lagarconne.com for $385
Is working out more one of your New Year’s resolutions? What do you do to stay fit?
Category: Fashion | 4 Comments

Love & Basketball

January 4, 2012

Actress Gabrielle Union and NBA basketball star Dwyane Wade are heating up the February “Love” issue of Essence. The couple have been the center of controversy on countless blogs ever since their romance was rumored to have started while Wade was still married in 2010.

Nonetheless, the exclusive interview should be an interesting read. Be sure to pick up a copy on newsstands January 12th.

The couple tells Essence why they’re in no rush to race to the alter. 

Will you be reading? Do you like them as a couple? 
Category: Arts and Entertainment | 4 Comments

Sole Savior: Dr. Teal’s Giveaway

January 3, 2012

You may have survived the stress of the holidays, but surely your soles could use a bit of TLC. Whether they stood in those long Black Friday lines or were squeezed into uncomfortable (but fabulous) stilettos at your New Year’s Eve soiree, Dr. Teal’s is just what the doctor ordered.

Soak your soles in their Epsom salt foot bath for a heavenly experience. Not only does the soak relax tired feet, but it also provides a cooling peppermint sensation. To go that extra mile, follow-up with  their rich and soothing foot cream for maximum moisture. 
Visit www.drteals.com for pricing
Do you use foot soak treatments at home or do you typically opt for a professional pedicure? One lucky winner will win a Foot Scrub and the Cracked Heel Therapy. Simply leave a comment and a winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week. 
Category: Beauty, Giveaway | 7 Comments