Dawn - Dirty Money

Someone, somewhere must have read my mind. I was having a discussion with a friend of mine yesterday and we were echoing the sentiments of many that Dirty Money (Dawn and Kaleena) have seemed to become Diddy's back up dancers- A SHAME. I said that it was sad because both are extremely talented and it seemed to be unfitting to be behind the guy who is the best at sucking up everyone's energy and making himself the focal point (no way anyone can argue with this - check his resume). I was in thought of whether there would ever be a chance for Dawn to stand alone. The look is there, the vocals, but what is missing? Maybe the effort? With these pictures and interview in Ghubar Magazine, it is clear that she is creating a separate image for herself.



Dawn claims to be chic, and eclectic - which we can see - but aren't we all in our own way. What's going to be her distinction? Follow trends - she must not. Be a backup singer - she must let go of. It may pays the bills for now, but we appreciate her talent; even if it's drowned out by the "Yeah take that" of Diddy lol.

What do you think about Dawn, Kaleena & Diddy - Dirty Money?

"These words are a chance to be remembered and reprised." - Basquiat

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*Photos YBF
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The Journey = The Success

"Success is a journey, not a destination." - Ben Sweetland

t i f f a n y
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JuNK FOOD: The Minaj à Trois

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, well let's start counting all the things that little Kim could potentially say about this one. In the photo: Young Money's Nicki Minaj with D. Roc - former Junior Mafia manager - and the same dude that Lil' Kim did a year for in prision. In my opinion, Kim doing a year for not snitiching is what solidifies her claim to the thrown as the QUEEN. Eat your hearts out, and don't forget that I am FOX 5, Fox Boogie to the max. All in all, real recognizes real, and you can't argue with that.

When it all boils down, you have to ask - where's the loyalty? You can't knock the homey for getting his paper, especially when you have a chance to jump on a bandwagon like Nicki's (no pun intended). Seriously, how many people would turn that down? I know a few, but I guess he's not one. I don't know the dude personally, but what I do know is that this is kind of a slap in the face to Kim. Right now is pivotal, and sides must be chosen. Did he choose his? SAD.


I for one don't even co-sign the beef between Kim and Nicki, but I quote what Nicki said at the BET Awards, "I'm doing this for all women"; as she should. And like Remy said, "There can be more than one." - female rapper on top of her game that is. They don't always have to beef. So I'm riding with ending the BS, and letting them both get their shine, and rhyme on. As we all should.

"These words are a chance to be remembered and reprised." - Basquiat

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Drunk Off of Your Touch

This just in from Ayindé himself, straight out of the studio:

"Drunk Off of Your Touch"
by A Lost People featuring Ayindigo (Unmastered)

Take a listen and let us know what you think!

♥ t i f f a n y
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Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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FASHiON FiGHT: Nicky vs. Amber

Nicky Hilton vs. Amber Rose

Nicky Hilton rocked this Zac Posen Cornelia duchesse satin dress at Domino’s 3rd annual pre-oscar Hollywood gala on March 5, 2010. Ms. Amber Rose was seen at the 11th Annual Maxim Hot 100 Party (May 19th) wearing her lovely Zac Posen dress in lime green.


The Cornelia duchesse satin dress costs $1,795, now $718 (buy now). The satin adds to the vibrancy of the color and with the off-the-shoulder sleeves and a contrasting black spaghetti strapped bust attached underneath, it'll definitely turn heads. This dress is perfect for the woman that wants to show off their shape as well as be a bit more revealing. Can't afford that? No worries, Zac Posen has an affordable line featured in Target.
VOTE ON WHO YOU THINK WINS THE FASHiON FiGHT:



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Post #1000 | Stop the Violence

In the USA, we're taught a "Pledge of Allegiance" where we state that we're "One nation under God", yet we can't talk religion in public schools. "In God We Trust" is imprinted on our currency, but we don't trust God to keep our nation at peace. We send innocent men off to war; and applaud them if they go willingly, yet punish them if they refuse to fight. But "In God we trust" right? Is this the same "God" who says "Thou shall not kill."? Or am I missing something? We've been at war for so long, do we even know what why we're fighting anymore? Living in a nation that is so hypercritical and contradictory gets to me. Why are people killing? Why are people shooting? Why is there so much violence going on?

"I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent."

"I cannot teach you violence, as I do not myself believe in it. I can only teach you not to bow your heads before anyone even at the cost of your life."

"It is better to be violent, if there is violence in our hearts, than to put on the cloak of nonviolence to cover impotence."

"Victory attained by violence is tantamount to a defeat, for it is momentary."


Believe it or not, all of the statements above, were said by one man, Mahatma Gandhi. Very wise and powerful statements to say the least, and they definitely hit home in one way or another. The neighborhood where I grew up use to be a place of tranquility where kids were safe to be outside enjoying themselves; where a car driving recklessly had a sign that read "Student Driver", and was not a sign of a drive by shooter. I want those days back; where my friends were safe & shocking news wouldn't lead to bad thoughts or get well soon statements. Please, let us stop the violence. Here are some links that will guide you towards participating in such an important and growing epidemic:

Stop Handgun Violence
Things Kids Can Do To Stop Violence
Operation Speak Up

What is your take on this issue? Please comment!

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Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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eyeInspire: Think Fast

The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise…”- 2 Peter 3:9, NIV

Do you realize that as a believer in Jesus, you have a tremendous advantage in life? The Creator of the Universe is not only fighting your battles, but He is lining up the right people, the right breaks, and the right opportunities to move you forward. You may be facing a situation right now that looks like it’s never going to turn around, but I believe that you’re going to see some changes quicker than you think. You’re going to come out of debt quicker than you think. You’re going to accomplish your goals much quicker than you think. That relationship is going to be restored quicker than you think!

Remember, God is not slow in keeping His promise. I believe we are entering into a decade where we’re going to see the hand of God move like never before. He is going to open up doors that no man can shut. He is going to turn impossible situations around and take you places that you never dreamed. It’s time to get ready for more of God’s favor because that breakthrough is going to happen quicker than you think!


Agree? Disagree? COMMENT!

♥ t i f f a n y
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Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Inspirational Vitamin
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eyeWatch Performances | 2010 BET Awards

Check out the some of the performances that took place at the 2010 BET Awards last night. Queen Latifah was a great host and took on the personalities of the many characters that she had played throughout her career. If you happened to miss the awards last night, or simply wasn't interested in watching, you can read my take on it here. Happy watching!

Prince Tribute
Janelle Monae, Esperanza Spalding, Alicia Keys & Patti LaBelle

Video Link

Dirty Money
featuring Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, & T.I.

Video Link

Michael Jackson Tribute
by Chris Brown

Video Link

Drake featuring Young Jeezy
Fireworks, Over, Lost My Mind Remix

Video Link

Trey Songz
Yo Side of the Bed/Purple Rain

Video Link

Eminem & B.o.B. featuring Keyshia
Airplanes Pt. II & Not Afraid

Video Link

List of the winners
What was your favorite performance?

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WoRD UP

OSCITANT
\OS-i-tuhnt\
adjective

1.Yawning, as with drowsiness; gaping.
2.Drowsy or inattentive.
3.Dull, lazy, or negligent.

I cant stop staring at the clock, this class is so oscitant!

Define it. Use it. Love it!

Deuces
,
DANiE
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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BET Awards 2010 Commentary

Queen Latifah - the host - started this year’s BET award show off wonderfully with a comedic introduction and a “performance” to Drake’s "Over". She looked beautiful as usual and definitely kept my attention after the opening act. Let’s backtrack…Kayne West opened the show with his single “Power” from him upcoming album, Good A** Job. Kanye standing on top of a mountain with a mic & colossal chain wasn’t as interesting as I hoped that it would be. Next up was Usher, who performed a favorite of mine, “There Goes My Baby”. I felt his performance from the live band to the lighting and effects (except the vocals). I definitely think he set the bar for Trey Songz, but I think Trey's vocals will be on point. I LOVED Nicki Minaj's acceptance speech! She definitely kept it real and gave a true heartfelt speech; minus the bit of hood that was apparent at the end. T.I. was up next and he put on a show as usual with Travis Barker (who I love) as his drummer.

And the award for "Best Male Hip Hop Artist" goes to...who else? DRAKE! If you missed the announcement, you might've thought that the award was for best group. Young Money is coming to the stage old school passe style. Well deserved award for Drake, although not surprising. Although Queen Latifah's costumes got annoying very quick, little Gabby who came out to help announce Alicia Keys was amazing! Hopefully we hear more from her in the future. Alicia did do a good job. She was glowing and looked and sounded beautiful; baby bump and all. Speaking of baby bump (or lack there of), Keyshia Cole performed B.o.B's hit record "Airplanes II" featuring Haley Williams with Eminem. She definitely wasn't herself, and I mean that in the best way, because she sounded great! Until she started to over sing the song, but overall, good performance.


Monica was next up singing her single "Everything to Me". Then she brought out legend Denise Williams, who she sample the song from. The two went on to introduce the award for Best Collaboration; which went to Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys for "Empire State of Mind". Next on the stage was Diddy Dirty Money featuring T.I., Rick Ross, and Nicki Minaj. I can't front, that performance was all the way turned up! They killed, if you disregard the lip syncing.

Next up, Chris Brown with a Tribute to the late Michael Jackson. I missed the performance, but I did hear him and just glad that BET gave him a chance to hit the stage. He was probably overwhelmed by performing for the same people who lost respect for him last year after the infamous situation. I'm happy he received a standing ovation and was embraced. Hopefully he can come back full force, sooner than later. Thank Me Later, or now if you must...DRAKE hit the stage with a medley and was joined on stage by Young Jeezy (who looked crispy in his all white - the jacket was on point). They performed "Lost My Mind" (remix) and Drake was into his performance to say the lease. I was hoping he would perform "Light Up" and Jay would make a surprise appearance, but - that didn't happen.

And the award for "Best Male R&B Artist" goes to Mr. Trey Songz! He was up against some stiff competition; Chris Brown (who the crowd went wild for) and Usher to name a couple. His mother is beautiful and was so happy for him, as she should be. El Debarge followed and some may have said he danced more than he sang(and that the performance was random) - but it was a high energy performance...Gary Coleman was honored by Todd Bridges and Tyrese honor to Teddy Pendergrass by singing his classics. The tributes were kept alive by Kim Burrell, Karen Clark Shepard, Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, and Yolanda Adams with a tribute song to Haiti. John Legend was the Humanitarian Award recipient of the Night for his work in the US and Africa with the "Show Me" campaign; who provides clean water, nutrition, and education to help break the cycle of poverty. AWESOME ACCEPTANCE SPEECH!

In my opinion, Trey Songz performance was better than Usher's although he did go a little too in at the end. He paid homage to Prince with a little bit of classic "Purple Rain", overall, good job to Trey! The award for "Video of the Year" went to Beyoncé and Lady Gaga for "Video Phone", in which neither ladies were present LOL!

Now for that Prince tribute...It started off with words from Stevie Wonder, who "saw Prince dance" lol and began with a performance from Janelle Monae. She was extremely animated as usual; while performing "Crazy" and had Prince looking at her like...OKAY! Esperanda Spaldin was next followed by Alicia Keys and Patti LaBelle - who went IN! Chris Brown took home an award on behalf of his fans, the "Fandeominum" award.

And one of the last performances of the night: "My Chick Bad" by Ludacris featuring Nicki Minaj. Tommy Lee on drums was on Drums and then came DJ Khaled featuring the new dream team, T-Pain, Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, Diddy for the "My Chick Bad" Remix followed by the "All I Do is Win remix". I LOVE LOVE LOVE that song! Great ending! I wish I was there, but that will soon come.

Some random things you may have seen in the audience of the show: Brandy looked great, until I saw her on stage. Lisa Raye was wearing white...surprised?, Tiny is now a blonde...again. Overall this was one of BET's best shows.

Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees of the night! What are/were your thoughts on the show?

t i f f a n y
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Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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eyeWatch: A Year in the Making

Celebrating ONE Year
...in the making...


Video Link

THANK YOU!

TeAM elleELLEeye
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

*Music by Ayindé - "Napkins Please" ft. Jakee Baron
*Video produced by Kareema Bee
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elleELLEeye Recap


365 days, 991 posts (and counting), 95 followers (and counting), 1146 Facebook friends (and counting), 553 Facebook fans (and counting), 6 interviews, and a zillion eyes (and counting) later, who would've thought that elleELLEeye would be what is today? Honestly, I'm not surprised. I've been a humble and modest individual my whole life and for the first time this blog has been something that I've started on my own, and has opened (and closed) a lot of doors for me. I've had the opportunity to work with, meet, and interview people that may not have crossed my path otherwise; and for that, I am grateful.

I'm happy and proud to work with a staff that continues to grow. Although I go blog crazy at times, they have been played significant role in the number of posts, topics, and writing that you see on the blog. And for the person who coined the phrase, "There's no I in team"; let me introduce you to the eyes in mine...

Kareema Bee - My buzy bee who is doing so much and still makes time for elleELLEeye. You're an extremely talented person and I'm glad to have the pleasure to know you as a friend and team member. You bring a lot to the table, along with constructive criticism that I take in and digest, advice & a growing expertise in the "business" world. I'm sure with you on the team, elleELLEeye's buzz will soon become....ummm....a bigger buzz?!


Aliciia - My little Fashionista, if I never knew one before. You know it was only right that you joined the team, I mean with a tattoo that says "Be inspired", how could we not have asked you to?! You've been a great help and I'm glad to have seen the growth of your writing before my own eyes. Keep on "Zoin' it" and Stay Couture!

Perlita - Thank you for what you have contributed. I can't wait until you have more free time on your hands so the elleELLEeye world can see more from you. Keep it HOT Perlita =)

Basquiat - You're the newest addition to the squad, and you've already become a force to be reckoned with. I appreciate your writing and your opinion on the different topics you choose to write about. You know, those "things that make you go hmm"...Looking forward to what the future has to offer you and us as a whole!

DANiE - You've been there before DAY 1! When I was testing out graphics, trying to figure out a name, to when I finally started publishing, you were elleELLEeye's #1 fan. You commented and made pictures for me, and it was only right that you joined me in this quest. You're the Kelly to my Beyoncé, the Bleek to my Jay-Z, the branch to my Michelle, and the Deuce to my Ace. You've had some crazy ideas that I've hated, and said "okay" to, and some that were great, but just didn't work out for us. The ideas of "FASHiON FiGHT", "WoRD UP", "ToP THiS" started with a thought from you, and now they're some of my favorite things about elleELLEeye. You've dealt with me being nervous as ever on our first interview with Shanelle Gabriel; which turned out great, and countless other worries. Without you, elleELLEeye would still be here, but would be missing something that it has today... Love you sis!



A special thank you and appreciation goes out to those that have associated themselves and their name with elleELLEeye; Skye Townsend, Shanelle Gabriel, Ayindé, the Oxymorrons, Iran Ortiz, Parlé Poets (Kevin Benoit, Kesed, and Marcus Wright) and all of our readers. For those of you who read, comment, share and enjoy or dislike the blog, thank you! I appreciate everyone that was and is a part of this process. See you next year ;-p


...and to think, it all started with this post, "Welcome to elleELLEeye"...

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ToP THIS: Tips for Wearing Heels WITHOUT The Pain




Something about wearing heels can make an outfit go from nice to wow! Unfortunately some people are turned off by wearing heels because they hurt!! In this ToP THiS, I'm going to share some tips that will help ease/elminiate the pain.


Buy the right fit not size:
Too often we get caught up on the numerical size versus how the shoe feels. For example if you know that you wear an 8, it doesn't mean that all of your shoes should be an 8. Different designers cut their shoes differently according to the styles. If your shoes hurt before you leave the store, just imagine how they're going to feel when you have to walk around in them.



Posture Perfect:
Your posture is extremely important when you're wearing heels. Think about it, when you stand up straight your weight shifts. You'll relieve weight from being on the sensitive balls of your feel and eliminate pain. Practice makes perfect but remember to stand on your heels and keep that posture on point!


Injecting fat pads or collagen:
Ditch the insoles and get permanent ones. Yes, you can get fat and collagen injections! After this procedure, you'll have cushion-ey feet, for any shoe.


Put your shoes on last:
When you're getting ready wear your comfy slippers. There's no need to put your heels on until your next step is out the door. Keep your shoes by the door (which some people do already) and you'll allow your feel to rest before the big night.


insoles:
They actually make insoles for heels and they're dirt cheap! Plus you can't put a price on being able to wear your shoes, pain free, all night long. Invest in some, but I would suggest that you have the insoles with you as you buy new shoes so you can get the perfect fit with the insole in the shoe.


break them in:
Breaking in a shoe doesn't mean wearing them while you watch television. No, wear them while you clean the house, do the dishes (don't get them wet) walk around. Also walking around the house will give you the practice you might need when you're out on the town.


Get used to it:
Don't wear heels once, every other weekend. You're shocking your poor feet. Wear heels more often (2-3times) a week. Your feet will get used to the shift in weight and soon walking in heels will become second nature. I must warn you though, wearing heels is bad for your knees and back, so wearing heels (and walking a lot) isn't the best idea.


Be good to your feet:
Even if you're used to wearing heels, the truth is that heels can and will do damage to your feet. Take time to soak your feet in Epsom salt, thoroughly moisturize your feet and massage them often. Home foot spas are affordable so if you want to invest in one, that might be a good idea.

If you take care of your feet, your feet will take care of you.
Deuces,

DANiE
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society


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SWaP PaRTY

Remember that nice necklace you purchased almost a year ago, don't get me wrong, you like it, but you've never worn it and you don't have plans to wear it in the future.

What are you going to do about that dress you bought to go to your friends wedding? You don't want to wear it anymore because you've already worn it a couple times and you have tons of pictures in it.

Grandma Lou bought you a funky psychedelic hippie shirt. You like it, just not for you. Plus it doesn't even fit.

What should you do with all of those items that aren't worth throwing away?

Host a SWAP PARTY and invite your friends!



Invite your friends over and you can all take turns exchanging all sorts of
abandoned things.

Fashion isn't WHAT you buy, it's HOW you wear it.
If you're not wearing it, give it to someone who will.

On the flip side, you can get some pretty cool things from your friends. If you all can't fit the same size, you can focus having just an accessory swap party. You can swap anything so be creative, have fun and
get-to-swapping!


Deuces,

DANiE
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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elleELLEeye Highlights: Inspire

If you haven't caught on by now, or if you're just tuning in to elleELLEeye's blog, the "eye" in elleELLEeye stands for "inspire". Once again we have gathered some quotes from our past interviews with Ayindé, Iran Ortiz, Shanelle Gabriel, the Oxymorrons and the poets, Kesed and Marcus Wright, of Parlé. In addition to their responses and comments on the subject of inspiration, the eyes in our team t i f f a n y, DANiE, Aliciia, and Perlita gave their own personal quotes on inspiration. We have a quote from a friend and supporter of elleELLEeye, Keemie Heart and singer, Priscilla Renea - who we hope to work with in the future. We hope that our words inspire you, as you all have us within this past year. If you are nothing else at this moment, Be Inspired.

"It is an amazing feeling when you produce something that is actually BETTER than your BEST work. That's what inspires me!" - Priscilla Renea

Three things that inspire Ayindé:
1. Good instrumentation
2. Conversation
3. Looking around and looking at buildings and what’s going on around me.

"I am inspired by plenty; and they are all different when it comes to my writing, fashion, role models and such. I'm inspired by classic pieces such as Mrs. Dalloway and magazines such as TIME magazine. They help me relax and come intact with my personal writing skills and form of writing. With Fashion I am not inspired by a particular person, but by
eras and different aspects of it; such as the 90s or the 50s. I am also inspired by brands such as American Apparel that offer the overall. I'm inspired by those that succeed in life, and use their knowledge and connections to help out the community." - Perlita

There's so many people in this world. Everyone different, with different lives and different agendas. However, when I close my eyes, I'm in a Me and Myself moment with I alone. I see dreams of success, love, and happiness. How will I get to that place, you ask? By living for my own desires, loving God and others and being inspired by the images which take hold of my heart. L.L.I. - Aliciia

"I'm inspired by tragedies and mind boggling obstacles. Something about a challenge makes my fingers tingle...bad news has a way of making me work that much harder, because when I succeed my accomplishments feels so much more rewarding." - Keemie Heart

What are 5 Things that INSPIRE you?
Kesed: Water because it can take any form, gentle or rough.
Kesed: Nature, in humans. I'm amazed by creativity and stupidity. Sometimes you have to do something stupid to get something creative.
Marcus: Everything I see, that's why I really feel [bad] for blind people.
Marcus: People who have thoughts and don't speak their mind.
Marcus: Parlé

One designer that does inspire me is Kerin Rose. I heard her story through a friend of mine and soon after was following her on Twitter. She inspires me because she goes the extra mile in everything that she does. Not only are her products beautiful but they are also of high quality. Kerin Rose is a true hustler. - Iran Ortiz

elleELLEeye: What inspires you guys?
Oxymorrons: Ony - Life. K.I - Anything we do is an extravaganza. D - Everywhere we go something is happening to us and we're like "Why is this happening?" Ony - Being an artist is a lifestyle within itself. If you're not inspired by life, you're not you! I remember K.I. was having a bad day and he came to me and I made the beat - just from that situation... But we're inspired by everything, life, fashion...

What inspired you to want to become a performer? I graduated in 2006 from Utica College with a degree in Communication Arts. I like working with kids and I worked at Harlem Children’s Zone. After working there, I worked at a financial company for 9 months and that just put me to sleep so I needed something that would keep me going. You should do something you love rather than what other want you to do. I didn’t fall asleep on stage so I knew that performing was it. I knew that I could write but I had to ask myself,"Can I write for people to listen to me?" and that's when I began slam poetry. - Shanelle Gabriel

"I'm so blessed to be constantly be in the midst of inspiring individuals. Our very earthly existence is awe inspiring and this world that we live in is full of things that provoke our senses. I am inspired by God, nature, colors, art, and love. Those elements, paired with family and friends (who have become family) are the very things that inspire me to inspire others." - DANiE

"In creating the elleELLEeye blog and brand, it has become my way of inspiring others that "Love to dream, Live to create, and hope to Inspire", to do what they love. No matter what their craft is, no matter male or female, teacher or dancer, we are all here for a reason. God has a plan for everyone and through Him anything is possible - if you believe. In me overcoming obstacles, being dedicated, creative and passionate, others will see that and want more for themselves. As said by Horace Bushnell, 'The more difficulties one has to encounter, within and without, the more significant and the higher in inspiration his life will be.' That's why I know that I can inspire others." - t i f f a n y

What inspires you?

♥TeAM elleELLEinspire
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Proud supporter of
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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Will the Real Rick Ross Please Stand Up

By now you all should know the turmoil between the REAL Rick Ross, and Rick Ross the rapper. If not, I can break it down... It is so simple as the man born as Rick Ross being ticked off that Mr. William Roberts, A.K.A., Rick Ross has used his name to profit tenfold with a very successful rap career. At the root of this aggravation, is the fact that the rapper has not been acknowledged or compensated Rick Ross in any fashion. While his lifestyle, more so - his name, is out in the public eye and being used for profitability; the real Rick Ross has no in this. Follow me?






Now that that's done, let's get to the root as I see it. I think more so than anything, Freeway Rick should be honored; or at least flattered that someone would want to use his name in tribute to what he has done - albeit nothing positive for the most part.

They say when you have passed, memories are all that remain. In this case Freeway Rick has the opportunity to live parallel to his memory, something not too many people can afford. In so many ways since his release, he has claimed to have relinquished his whole image. With that I believe he should leave the name as well, or rep if you will. Why profit from what you disown? If someone else feels they can do better with it, let them have it. His past is in his past - it is meant to be used as a lesson, a voice. In that, I feel like Ricky the rapper is using it as a model. Music has gone beyond the belief that these guys have truly lived it, none more the case than Rick Ross', who it has been proven was nothing of the sort. What he is however, is creative. As a result, he deserves the proceeds, and the REAL Rick Ross the recognition.

It is not hard to distinguish the two, and if it is, then you are not really hip to whats going on.

"These words are a chance to be remembered and reprised." - Basquiat

Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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Drake's 15 Minutes Started...

"Money just changed everything, I wonder how life without it will go. My fifteen minutes started an hour ago." With the career Drake has had thus far, I hope to see countless amounts of "fifteen minute" moments. After watching his documentary on MTV, "Drake: Better Than Good Enough", I have found a new love for Drake. As a songwriter and rapper myself, Drake is one artist that inspires me to write when I listen to his music. The show provoked a number of emotions from myself, and I'm sure his fans were pleased with it as well. He's a gifted, humble individual who has not taken advantage of the success that he has had to date. The fact that he's humbled enough to want to get better and grow within the craft that has his name on magazine covers, music charts and television screens, is incredible. I admire him. If you missed the full documentary, check out the full video in parts here (also, check out his performance on Jay Leno from last night). Happy watching!

Drake: Better than Good Enough Part I


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part II


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part III


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part IV


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part V


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part VI


Drake: Better than Good Enough Part VII


Drake on Jay Leno(June 23rd)


t i f f a n y
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Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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WoRD UP

Inspire

in·spire   /ɪnˈspaɪər/[in-spahyuhr] verb, -spired, -spir·ing.
–verb (used with object)

1. to fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence: His courage inspired his followers.
2. to produce or arouse (a feeling, thought, etc.): to inspire confidence in others.
3. to communicate or suggest by a divine or supernatural influence: writings inspired by God.

Example: You inspire me.


TeAM elleELLEinspire

Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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Never Burn A Bridge

The old cliche holds true in all walks of life, a bridge is never to be burned because in essence you never know when it may be imperative that you cross it again. I've tried to practice that as much as I can, but I myself have not been perfect in doing so. As I recollect, there are many bridges that I wish were still standing, and if I had the chance to, I would do whatever I could to mend. If The Game could start his life from scratch like the song off the documentary goes, what would he do? Would reconciliation with one 50 Cent be on that list? Things that make you go hmm...

We've all heard the stories and know the happenings between the two. From the G-Unit, to the tongue rings on Change of Heart, all the way up to the staged reunion at the Schomburg Museum in Harlem; which was an obvious publicity stunt, when right after more diss records and such were released. However, in more recent times, I guess they have experienced what we all do - GROWTH and MATURITY. With those two, come a stronger perspective one that may lead a person, i.e. Game, to feel like this:


"I think that in life anything can be mended. Right now, I haven't talked to 50. I don't talk to him but um, I'm not saying that that can't happen in the future or that it will or won't. But I think he's fine doing him and I'm fine doing me. And if the stars ever aligned and if that day comes where we can have a conversation and then chop it up and we can come to some type of happy medium, you know, I'm wit' it. But as of now, I guess he's doing him and I'm doing me" (sohh.com).

That's a far cry from the days of:






If this new approach marked by semi-regretful words such as, "I think in that situation, everybody lost, "Game said about his 2005 break-up with G-Unit. "I think when we were the mighty mighty G-Unit, we were strong and like the modern day N.W.A. and I think everybody suffered from the break. First and foremost, Yayo and Banks, and then Buck and then myself and 50. He's not comfortable in hip-hop right now, I'm still here but it's not what it was at its peak. Everybody is just maintaining what they have and even Dre and Em, the whole outfit. I think we would have been hundreds and millions of albums sold right now had we [stayed together]. But we didn't and I don't like to look back and regret, I just like to look and reflect, analyze the situation..."(sohh.com) is not GROWTH, then I don't know what is.

I take my hat off to the brother. Although he might not have admitted it in so many words, mistakes are best served as models of what not to repeat.

"These words are a chance to be remembered and reprised." - Basquiat

Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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elleeELLEeye Highlights: Live

The second "L" (ELLE) in elleELLEeye stands for "Live". We've put together some answers from the eyes in our team, as well as Shanelle Gabriel, Iran Ortiz & Ayindé. As you take a look at what lives within us and what we live for, think about what it is that you're living for. Always remember to Live Life, before it passes you by.

What separates Endless Noise NYC jewelry from the rest?
Iran Ortiz: It has a personal touch. I work on every piece myself so it feels like every piece has it’s own personality. Two different girls can have the same piece but it lives differently with each person.

Name three things you live for:
Shanelle Gabriel: I live to:
1. make people smile.
2. prove others wrong by following my dreams.
3. enjoy life.


What are 2 things you live for?
Marcus Wright: The Advancement of African American people and making art known to the world.


Three things Ayindé lives by:
1. Put God first
2. Stay persistent
3. Know when to relax

Kareema Bee: I live to help others. I think one of the greatest rewards someone can have is when they first give wholeheartedly.

Basquiat lives for:
1. Respect
2. Family
3. Success

t i f f a n y: eyeLive to be creative, put a smile on the faces of others, come that much closer to reaching my goals, tell at least one person that I love them everyday, and become more comfortable with myself, no matter how imperfect I am. I live in the hopes of inspiring someone to see what they never saw in themselves before. That's all worth living for.


♥TeAM elleLIVEeye
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
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