The Renaissance Man

WALE: MY SWEETIE

2010-02-12T16:51:00.000-08:00

ON TO THE NEXT

2010-01-03T13:32:00.000-08:00

Sigh....

First day at the office in this new decade tomorrow.

There isn't a more motivating message than Jay Z's simple we "On to the Next..."

SOUNDTRACK TO THE NEW YEAR

2009-12-29T15:32:00.000-08:00

Forever young,
I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever?
Forever and ever
Forever young I wanna be
Forever young
Do you really want to live forever?
Forever, forever

SONGS OF THE WEEK

2009-12-11T05:41:00.000-08:00

Some trip'py' music for your weekend listening pleasure!

Fink's Sort of Revolution

Major Lazer ft. Santogold - Hold the Line

THE MOST AVERAGE POP-DUET OF THE YEAR!

2009-11-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

Unflattering Pop Moment of the year.

This really takes the biscuit!

BUZZ WORTHY: DONAE'O

2009-11-17T07:30:00.000-08:00

We gon' party hard!

UK stand up!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah-ah! Roma-roma-mamaa! Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!!!!!

2009-11-17T07:18:00.000-08:00

I'm left gobsmacked whenever a Lady gaga promo video hits my TV screens. Her new single "Bad Romance" was no exception, in fact, its very bizarre ending and quite honestly crap "storyline" hit me harder than most?

At the end of the 5:10secs fashion/ pose shoot, I wondered, what's next from the 'Haus of Gaga'?....Obama-modelled mannequins wearing Frankie Goes to Hollywoord T-shirts?

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah-ah! Roma-roma-mamaa! Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!!!!!

STARS IN SUPRISE BOXES!

2009-11-17T05:36:00.000-08:00

This is why Oprah Winfrey is very special.

After many years of playing the only cover star on her 'O' magazine - she finally shares the space with another empowering talk-show host/ role model, Ellen DeGeneres.

We possibly couldn't think of a better co-model.

What a treat for all talk-show fans, bring on the festivities!

This is true Christmas spirit in full swing!

FIRST NAME GREATEST, LAST NAME EVER!

2009-11-17T05:27:00.000-08:00

What a difference a year makes!

Three very lucky people are listed in GQ American's annual selection of achieving men.

Some of our favourites include Kid Cudi, Wale and Drizzy.

BABY MAKIN MUZIK: ALICIA KEYS

2009-11-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

This is soooooooooooo sweet.

TREY SONGZ 'DON ALRIGHT

2009-11-15T13:39:00.000-08:00

From Skinny wannabe R&B singer to 'attitude-laced buffed bodied' R&B crooner.

Trey Songz has done alright in less than 5 years. We skinny guys all have a chance.

Enjoy his interestingly-titled new single 'Invented Sex'

RIHANNA COMES HARD!

2009-11-15T13:35:00.001-08:00

After the rather dull come back single "Wait your Turn"....we prefer the sounds of the supposed new single 'Hard' featuring Young Jeezy.

TWO HEAVY WEIGHTS COLLIDE

2009-11-15T13:27:00.000-08:00

So when I first heard Beyonce and Lady Gaga would be collaborating - my excitement reached the roof.......until I heard the pretty average effort. Video Phone is on the 8-tracked 'I Am..Sacha Fierce' album - it has been re-worked to include Lady gaga vocals even though it lacks the petit star's brilliant stamp.

A real waste of a golden opportunity.

THE WORLD'S MOST 'UN-SEXY' BOY BAND

2009-11-11T04:41:00.000-08:00

Boy Boy Boy...Day 26 continue to leave absolutely no imprint on our subconscious. Their bland blend of R&B and 'Soul' is like eating salt on its own. Just cruel!

The new single 'So Good' has been accompanied with an attempted sexy promo video...the question is, is there anyone out there salivating to this 4 minutes and 21 seconds of film?

GET DOWN ON IT: CHURCH-STYLE

2009-11-11T04:34:00.000-08:00

If you were ever in doubt about how people really break down and boogie in Churches across the continent...then, here's your one 'solid' evidence.

KATY PERRY DOES SOMETHING WORTHY..

2009-11-06T05:43:00.000-08:00

After a year of not giving the girl the light of day, Katy Perry redeemed herself before our eyes at last night's MTV EMA 2009.

We like her recreation of the year's most popular songs

We like very much!

SONG OF THE WEEK: B.O.B - PUT ME ON

2009-11-06T05:39:00.000-08:00

Sweet!

RUBY BLUE

2009-10-29T01:41:00.000-07:00

I must confess I've treated the last 5 seasons of 'So you think you can dance' as some second-rate reality dance programme.

Until....Brandon and Jeanette.....what a pair!

I'm so feeling this Wade Robson choreographed original to Roisin Murphy's 'Ruby Blue'

HOT! HOT! HOT!!!!!!!

PUFF DADDY GETTING ARTY

2009-10-28T08:14:00.000-07:00

Is this the real death of auto tune when Puff Daddy decides to start singing? His new single Angel is a rather bizzare effort from daddy MTB amongst many.

Really not sure what to make of this direction except I blame Kanye West for making every rapper want to try their shot at singing.

Lastly, if you watch the video closely - is Puffy trying to compare angels to prostitutes?

The video is awfully suggestive.

I CAN'T HEAR THE MUSIC

2009-08-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

This is to music continuously been the healer to the human race.

To everyone out there struggling with some health issue or another, I wish you a speedy recovery - there is nothing more valuable than 100% of your self.

FRIDAY TRACK: ATARODO

2009-08-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

Honestly, it’s time to start doing ourselves some favour and start acting as friends on FACEBOOK. After all, we all use one another to make up the number, why don’t we tell each other the truth.

I’ve been on facebook for almost 2 years now and have been an avid fan (albeit respecting myself) but in the last week, I have never been closer to deleting names and ultimately shutting down the account.

Why? It’s people’s status updates .... my my my....it’s these updates of how you livin’, how good it is, when you got your last pay check blah blah. I can only imagine if a webcam was an application then people will televise their baby birth’s or a shopping trip at Selfridges with the rest of the online planet.

Have you also noticed how ‘friends’ always choose to report the good things in their lives i.e. which stars they had dinner with yesterday, what class they flew Virgin Atlantic...I don’t remember anyone saying the bailiffs are after them or confessing they got dumped by a post-it note.

Status updates are meant to provoke thought, make friends laugh or cry – not vomit.

I mean, if one more person tells me their travel itinerary I will scream. It is just fucking shit. This tiresome attempt to outdo each other – you will never make it onto TMZ so get over it. If you’re so Hollywood how come E! hasn’t snapped you up yet – ooh I’m sorry...’you’re above E!’ Yeah right.

Having 700 friends yet only speaking to 100 defeats the whole point of social networking. I’m down for deleting names cause I’m unwilling to wait for the day when one senseless soul goes as far as updating us with the line ‘I got my period this morning’

If you’re not sure what to write, sweetie just don’t write jack.

This week’s Friday Track is from Lagos’ finest SHOW DEM CAMP, this is the blazing track ‘Atarodo’ ...forget you meehn, ...you down SDC....yeah you know me.

Support the boys....download five new tracks from their myspace page - www.myspace.com/showdemcamp

Enjoy!

SHAKIRA: SHE WOLF

2009-08-05T01:18:00.000-07:00

The quest of female pop stars to outdo each other in music video STILL holds strongly if Latin-queen Shakira's new effort 'She Wolf' is anything to go by.

The verdict is actually still out on whether this is either a good song nor complimentary music video

BLAST FROM THE PAST: PETE ROCK & C.L. SMOOTH

2009-08-03T04:47:00.000-07:00

I reminisce for a spell, or shall I say think back
22 years ago to keep it on track
The birth of a child on the 8th of october
A toast but my granddaddy came sober
Countin’ all the fingers and the toes
Now I suppose, you hope the little black boy grows, huh

KATT WILLIAMS TIPS ON BOOZE

2009-07-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

The comic genius that is Katt Williams is at it again.

Enjoy!

FRIDAY TRACK: ....WITH A GANGSTER LEAN

2009-07-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

Yo!

Happy Friday peeps

If I were to pray for anything for you this year – it’d be that you have good health – 100% health – the type of health that you run to the bus stop every morning (just because you can), the type that you sing in the shower at the top of the lungs (just because you can), the type that you spin round in circles for hours (just because you can), the type that you try to keep up with your 5-year old nephew....just because you can.

We all remember the ‘parentals’ used to swear by the motto: Health is Wealth. They say you become your mother and father so I guess I’ve become mine as I now subscribe to this way of life. There is nothing more important than what your body says – I now endeavour to salute mine every morning. In simple language: Oga sir!!!!

This Friday Track is a classic from the legendary Omar featuring Angie Stone. This is ‘Be Thankful’ ....diamonds in the back, sunroof top, digging the scene with a gangster lean. Click here:

I hope this beautiful song meets you with great comfort.

Until next week.

Keep cool!!

NIGERIA: THE INTELLECTUAL BUNDLE

2009-07-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

THE OBAMA-WALK!

2009-07-27T06:17:00.000-07:00

VERY FUNNY!

FRIDAY TRACK: EXTRAORDINARY, ORDINARY THINGS

2009-07-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

Yo!

It’s official.

I never want to have another debate about who is better D’Angelo or Maxwell? I have never lend myself to that idle discussion but feel the need to shut this shit down right now. Last week, I purchased my copy of BlackSummer’sNight and like a groupie with an all access tag I have sized the record from all corners.

Like the reoccurring 80’s banter (often when one is inebriated) on whether Prince was in fact better than MJ – the bottom-line still stands – they both stand for different things – one churned out an album a year whilst the other well, was simply Michael Jackson.

Maxwell’s new effort is special in many ways – it feels like someone has finally compensated us for the premature death of the neo-soul movement or more literally, the ‘Neptunes’-killed-the-movement. If you know what I mean you might just feel like Maxwell has saved the memory of many ‘lost ones’ from Bilal to Rashaan Patterson to Lauryn to D’Angelo.

It might have taken him an eternity and a new haircut to bring us back to our knees but I didn’t think I could be this excited about this new album. The album is a creeper – you will need to pay attention. The vocals are immaculate.....those falsettos rival just about anyone in the business.

His song writing skills have also received some Diane Warren-esque polish shine with the singer often stepping away from his ‘sensual’ comfort zones and attempting to pen more political/moral orientated songs such as ‘Stop the world’ and the vulnerable ‘Fistful of Tears’.

To be honest, the artistic ability of his band is the highlight of the record – between Hod David (Guitar), Kenneth Whalum (Saxophone), Chris Dave (Drums) and Derrick Hodge (Bass) they serve up some fantastic soul music for 2010 and beyond.
This is very much Urban Hang Suite Maxwell as opposed to the ‘Now’ Maxwell. You will enjoy this –and if you don’t have your copy by Christmas – I will buy you a copy.

It’s a promise!

Enough selling, this week’s Friday Track is lifted from the album and this is the very up-beat ‘Love you’. Click here:

Enjoy!

15 ROGER-Y POINTS

2009-07-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

How could we resist this great tribute ad from Nike to the greatness that is Roger Federer.

MOVIE THROWBACK

2009-07-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Lifted from the 80's film which redefined dance 'Breakin'. Remember Ozone, Turbo and Special K!

ATTENTION: DOPE CUDI

2009-07-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

I DOUBT THE WORLD IS LISTENING...

2009-07-21T09:44:00.000-07:00

(HOLD YOUR APPLAUSE) Chris Brown releases an apology VT.

THE TALENTED MR.HUDSON

2009-07-17T03:02:00.000-07:00

You know there is nothing nicer than to see a band come from humble to potential global domination.

Mr Hudson used to perform/busk at this uber-cool spot in London - the scene of my 21-year experiences. It was full of trendy London kids all trying to break the mould all at the same time.

Fast forward to last night when I suddenly saw the peroxide haired Mr. Hudson jamming away with Mr. Yeezy on my TV screen.

Just fabulous!

Shout out to all the Deal Real organizers - you've made Estelle happen now it's Mr. Hudson.

Look at that, look at how they lookin at me/ Eyes all sticky like honey on bees

2009-07-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

EVERY RAPPER'S FAVORITE RAPPER, WALE IS IN THE BUILDING!!!!!!!!!!!!

I got the right to be cocky
Get so much cut disc jockeys jock me
You niggas mad that you not me
I remain a Giant and your Jeremy Shockey
And if you ain't heard me properly
If you speak garbage, then we no capice
DC chillin, PG chillin, floor to the ceilin
Stuntin in my Billion-Aire, gear on my
Millionaire Frames, that's money on my mind, WALE

LAUGH OUT LOUD

2009-07-13T16:30:00.000-07:00

Some classic comedy to herald a stress-free week courtesy of Sheneneh.

FRIDAY TRACK: CLARITY

2009-07-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

How are you doing?

Thought I should share this:

If you love the life you live then you'll get a lot more done, be more inclined to take the reins than turn away and run, it's very rare it seems to get a lifetime guarantee, so I suppose self satisfaction be the key.

My father was a self made man but his wealth did not consist of riches or acres of land instead he had a family who were his biggest fans, that's something that I one day hope to have so I'll cherish the simple things, the ‘easy took for granted’ things like going to my mum’s simply for snails or arguing with my sister, only God knows how I miss her, it's the simple things that mean the most to me.

This week’s Friday Track is from South Africa’s super group Corenahouse. This is the magnificent single ‘It revolves around you’.

Have a great weekend – I’m charged and ready.

Lastly, thank you for the incredible turn out at Machu Picchu last Friday, you made it the night of all nights. Thank you – you deserve a gold star.

Regards,

MACHU PICCHU: LAGOS's HOTTEST NIGHT OUT - JULY 3rd 2009

2009-06-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand, Machu Picchu – the premier night on the Lagos social calendar is back for its July instalment. This is a particularly special edition as it is dedicated to the King of Pop who we lost last week.

So..come and help celebrate the legacy that is Michael Jackson with our usual twist of colour, culture and people; this Friday 3rd July, 2009 at 7pm.

Come dressed as your favourite Michael – the black or white or gloved one - we’ll welcome you the same.

“So tonight gotta leave that nine to five upon the shelf and just enjoy yourself. Groove, let the madness in the music get to you, life ain’t so bad at all, if you live it off the wall. Life ain’t so bad at all (live life off the wall). Live your life off the wall (live it off the wall)”

WHO IS TUNDE ADEBIMPE?

2009-06-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

If you haven't seen the Anne Hathaway flick 'Rachel Getting Married' then you have to. It is a modern gem about how the world interacts with each other - this is not a great descriptive for the movie but just trust us - it's a great story.

One of the stand out performances comes from a part-time actor but full time musician, Tunde Adebimpe (also front man to the Brooklyn-based band, TV on the Radio). His moment of class came when he sings a rendition of Neil Young's Unknown Legend as his vow to his on-screen wife-to-be.

Watch this space for this chap. The name: Tunde. Tunde Adebimpe.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, MR. FOXX

2009-06-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how an artist can come full circle in a year and challenge one's preconceived notions of whom they are artistically.

The artist that has most convinced us about their artistry and authenticity in 2009 is Jamie (I never thought I'd say it) Foxx.

With the release of his recent album, Intuition (which has quickly become one of my fave '09 records) he completely blew me away and quickly let me put-a-sock-in-it for past criticisms including my very vocal ridicule of his Oscar win for the lead role in 'Ray'.

He has now surpassed further expectations with his hosting of this week's BET Awards and most importantly, his very fitting tribute to Michael Jackson.

We applaud Jamie!

GAGA FOR THE LADY

2009-06-30T13:33:00.000-07:00

We were not at Glastonbury this year to give you full unprecedented gist of celebrity shenanigans but our girl-of-the-moment, Lady 'too fabulous' Gaga was at hand to provide a great set.

Enjoy this live rendition of the hot single, Lovegame - which turns into a Marilyn Manson remix at the end.

We are GaGa for our Lady!

A PRESIDENTIAL TRIBUTE?

2009-06-26T05:47:00.000-07:00

I'm extremely eager to hear what Barack H Obama will say about Michael Jackson.

I think this deserves a press conference or official statement of some sort.

FRIDAY TRACK: CHA'MONE!

2009-06-26T04:09:00.000-07:00

I remember watching BBC’s Panorama special ‘Living with Michael Jackson’ with Martin Bashir back in March 2005 at the height of his legal battles and wondering ‘has this man ever known peace?’

The argument of whether the world is responsible for Michael’s woes will continue to surface but honestly, perhaps it is time to go.

Time to go rest......this soul has given everything he has to be adored and praised. He has spent the last 10 years trying to make a comeback and I believe it is the stress of trying to ‘entertain’ again at the scheduled July dates that led to what can only be described as a sad exit.

Last year, during an idle conversation with my sister, I asked what would happen if Michael Jackson died? Her response was ‘I don’t want to think about it’, this perfectly captures what is going through my mind even now that it has happened. As I become more and more disorientated by the second since I got the text message at 11pm last night, I’m slightly comforted by the idea that finally he has peace - no more ridicule, no more attacks, no more repression, no more inner turmoil, no more pursuit for perfection (both in and out)

What a year..........2009 has seen a black man occupy arguably the most senior office in the world and lost the greatest music ambassador (who just happens to be black also) - all within 6 months. This certainly is a year history will not forget.

There will be no Friday track today. This is a mark of respect to the Michael Jackson catalogue. I have all of his albums except Dangerous and I have spent the last 2 hours trying to find THE song – it quickly dawned on me that this was impossible simply because every single MJ track is a gem (yes....even Blood on the Dance floor) – all are worthy to be the Friday track.

I trust you wonderful people will all understand and agree.

Sun re o Michael Joseph Jackson. You deserve to sleep well.

“I'm gonna make a change for once in my life, it's gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right . . . I'm starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways, and no message could have been any clearer if you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and then make a change” extracts from Man in the Mirror

http://blip.fm/Renaissance_Man

T.O.N.Y

2009-06-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

I asked some friends the other day if they'd abandon me if I were to purchase a copy of the new Soulja Boy LP. Last year, I was asking myself the same question - although, the last time, it were in respect of Solange and her St. whoever-they-call-themselves dream band.

I'm having to bite my tongue quite rapidly about Solange's new material and quality presentations. I don't know if this whole image is an in-house gimmick orchestrated by clever marketing people or if she does actually believe in what she dishes out.

Anyway, her new single T.O.N.Y is simply brilliant and we can't get hold of the actual promotional video just yet...so please enjoy the song in the meantime.

ALWAYS EXCLUSIVES @ THE RENAISSANCE MAN

2009-06-18T06:47:00.000-07:00

Just as we have conquered just about all the different forums of media - print, on-line radio, the blogosphere.. our fans think the only natural progression would be to anchor an on-line A&R network for music artists.

We have always been the first at dropping exclusives to our dear readers and most of our picks from big albums always become future singles. An example is the new Beyonce single 'Brokenhearted'.

Upon first listen, it was inevitable this was a radio-dream, as we had initially highlighted when released. Anyway, enjoy the HOT new video of your girl, Beyonz with some male model swirling in the sand. SCANDAL!

PHRASE OF THE WEEK: SWEET CHEESE

2009-06-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

We are convinced our American brothers and sisters have the best slangs, catchphrases and/or chat-up lines the world has ever heard.

In the space of a week, we got acquainted with the phrases "..come on now" and our fave "sweet cheese".

Where would the world be without the Americans to supplement our personal vocabularies? Think about it!

NEW BOYZ - JERKIN' INTO OUR CONSCIOUSNESS

2009-06-17T02:07:00.000-07:00

You know, my dream job has always been an A&R executive at a major label...preferably on the diversity desk so that we can truly contribute genuine talent into this saturated pool of music artists.

Last night, I couldn't help but feel some guy deserves a big pat on the back for discovering the New Boyz. This is fun music at its best marketed, conceptualized and executed right. The New Boyz's début single You're a Jerk is a major banger and it is very exciting music even for a 20-something man like myself.

Enjoy!

WHO'S BOTTOM IS THIS?

2009-05-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

The Chris Brown-Rihanna story is getting darker sadly and the inevitable has started. The much-anticipated sex tape and sexy nude photos have started making their rounds on the world wide web. The million dollar R-Kelly question is "is that really you riri?"

MAY 2009: HOT MUSIC VIDEOS

2009-05-11T08:48:00.000-07:00

My R&B tendancies are out again people and we have some hot tracks on wax at the moment.

DAY 26's Imma Put it on her....is blazing hot!

Amy! Amy!! Amy!!!! she's in hibernation in St. Lucia and getting on stage to do the damn thang live on stage. This is hot and exclusive from this weekend.

100 DAYS DEEP

2009-04-29T04:10:00.000-07:00

Even some Republicans have publicly awarded him a 9 out of 10.

Nuff said!

WELSH ROOTS

2009-04-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

What is it with Wales and great singers - Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Charlotte Church, Duffy...could this 12-year old, Shaheen currently enjoying success with his spectacular'Britain Got Talent' audition be the next in line?

ON HIS GRIND: LENNY KRAVITZ

2009-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's imperative that everyone remains resourceful during these trying times. It is particularly refreshing to see artists like Lenny Kravitz take up photography as shifting CD units might increasingly become a pain in the groin.

Above are some images he took for Russian Vogue.

STAY UP ALL WEEK

2009-03-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

It's Monday Morning and to be brutally honest, Mondays never has much entertainment in his genes so we thought we'd amuse ourselves with the new 88 Keys featuring Kanye West's Viagra-inspired new single 'Stay Up'

This is mad jokes!

MODERN CLASSICS: WHERE I WANNA BE BOY

2009-03-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Those were the days, Soul of MTV & Yo! MTV Raps made us all love hip hop music way way way before music became saturated. Perhaps it were the fact that R&B music was only played an hour each week that made some songs and artists resonate strongly in our childhood minds.

A modern classic which embodies this era was NY-based singer, Miss Jones and her infectious 90's hit, "Where I Wanna Be Boy". This tune makes us wanna dust off our bumper jacket.

NEW MUSIC: JANELLE MONAE

2009-03-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

Who is Janelle Monae?

WATCH THIS!

DANCING IS UNDER-RATED!

2009-03-23T03:59:00.000-07:00

Do you fancy sliding across the stage like MJ?

The very cool boys from Far East Movement have mastered this legendary movements.

Watch and learn!

EN ROUTE TO THE SLAMMER?

2009-03-19T02:02:00.000-07:00

Mr. Headline finds himself making more headlines.

Rap's golden boy and our posting fave, Kanye West was charged yesterday with battery, theft and vandalism in connection with a September 11, 2008 scuffle with a paparazzi photographer at LAX.

The L.A. District Attorney's Office accuses Mr. West of smashing camera equipments in the tussle. If convicted on all the misdemeanor charges, the Louis-Vuitton don could be facing up to 2 1/2 years in prison.

We just wonder if he'd get to take in his own customised Louis Vuitton monogrammed-prison uniform. We can't have Mr. West look like one of the people now can we?

BRUNO

2009-03-18T09:02:00.000-07:00

Universal Studios have set a July 10 US release date for Bruno: The Movie.

In the meantime, lets tease you with some old footage.

LOST: JUST BECAUSE I'M LOSING, DOESN'T MEAN I'M LOST..

2009-03-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

Very few can rival the words craftsmanship of Chris Martin from Coldplay. Upon the first hearing of the song Lost from the Viva La Vida record, it was like someone had reached into my heart and poured out all my sentiments.

Just because I'm losing
Doesn't mean I'm lost
Doesn't mean I'll stop
Doesn't mean I'm in a cross

Just because I'm hurting
Doesn't mean I'm hurt
Doesn't mean I didn't get what I deserve
No better and no worse

I just got lost
Every river that I've tried to cross
And every door I ever tried was locked
Ooh-Oh, And I'm just waiting till the shine wears off..

Now....enjoy this impeccable rendition of the same song at this year's Grammy Awards Ceremony guest starring Mr. Sean Carter (a.k.a. Jay-Z).

TRACY MORGAN: GIFT OR CURSE?

2009-03-16T04:30:00.001-07:00

After finally watching the infamous Tina Fey impersonates Sarah Palin SNL sketch, the team started debating about the many great talents Saturday Night Live has churned out over the years especially black comedians.

They created the Richard Pryor phenomenon, the Eddie Murphy phenomenon, the Chris Rock phenomenon and more recently Tracy Morgan.

The 41-year old Brooklyn-native started his career on Martin where he played the Hustle Man. He joined the SNL cast in 1996 but departed in 2003 before returning as a guest host in March 2009.

Apart from his 30 Rock credits, we wonder if Tracy Morgan will have a long career like his predecessors. His show, The Tracy Morgan show was cancelled in 2003 after one season, he has been heavily slated for his drunk behaviour on appearances but isn't addiction synomomous with comedians?

The truth is we would like to see more of Tracy Morgan - the man is clearly talented, it's time he gets more movie roles and perhaps an HBO Special so he too can run money crazy like our boy Dave Chapelle

NEW-GIRL-GROUP-ON-THE-BLOCK

2009-03-16T04:03:00.000-07:00

We are from the school of Girls Aloud, sooo when we saw new-girl-group-on-the-block 'The Saturdays' new offering 'I just can't get enough', we couldn't help thinking how long before they get dropped from their label?

Notice how they are all wearing different colours in this picture....simply genius. Give yourself a pay rise stylist!

VIDEO OF THE WEEK: FRIENDLY FIRES

2009-03-16T03:47:00.000-07:00

It's always refreshing to see innovative music videos amidst today's lazy eyed directing and artists with minimal vision, English rockers Friendly Fires have single handedly made MTV watchable again.

There isn't a better way to start your Monday morning than to fix your eyes on this 3 minutes and 59 seconds of music directing and editing at its absolute finest.

CHICKEN CHANGE

2009-03-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

More depressing facts for you, actually depending on how you may want to look at this it may be a positive for you.

The Forbes List just unveiled its annual list of men and women raking in the big bucks. However, like we would have expected even the rich have felt the pinch this year - here's some startling facts:

In 2008, there were 1,125 billionaires, this year there are just 793 people rich enough to make the list

This is a 30% decline from a year ago

Of the 1,125 billionaires who made the 2008's ranking, 373 fell off the list - 355 from declining fortunes and 18 who died.

There are 38 newcomers, plus three moguls who make a re-appearance on the list after regaining their 10-figure fortunes (we guess they're smiling)

This is the first time since 2003 that the world has had a net loss in the number of billionaires.

Boo-bloody-woo! Cry me a river for not making this year's list.

MR. WEST IS IN THE BUILDING, SWAGGA ON A HUNDRED THOUSAND, TRILLION

2009-03-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

As much as this hook-up looks more and more like a publicity stunt, we can't help but think so what they gon' do next, where they gon' be, what crazy get-up shall they be rockin'......it is a nuisance been a celebrity hack.

Amber Rose on the other hand is loving this. 100%.

NEW MUSIC: KID CUDI'S SUPERBOO

2009-03-12T06:46:00.000-07:00

There's never anything positive about a pending global recession. The insecure currently facing people from all walks of life from the high-level earners to their junior counterparts is infectious.

Music seems to be the only thing to get excited about, it is the one thing in which we can all lose ourselves in. Kid Cudi is certainly an exciting act, we've raved about him for months and now he's delivering what Lumes Flowne once described as E-BOOM MUSIC (Economic Boom Music)

The follow-up to smash hit 'Day & Night' is this superb and sexy, Superboo and this video is sooo pleasing to the eye that you'll forget you may be fired from your job in a matter of hours.

Enjoy especially if you're at work.

MUST BUY: JEREMY SCOTT ADIDAS

2009-03-11T10:22:00.001-07:00

No IFs, BUTs or MAYBE.

You need a pair of Jeremy Scott designed Adidas Wing Sneakers in your life.

There are available this month @ www.adidas.com plus will set you back $180 - but who's counting.

FEDERER ON THE PATH TO LEAD AGAIN

2009-03-11T01:21:00.000-07:00

Swiss tennis great Roger Federer has hired Darren Cahill as his new coach
Cahill. The Aussie will start his partnership with the tennis ace at the Indian Wells this week according to the Australian.

Cahill and Federer, have been quietly working together in Dubai, where the Swiss star has a home. Federer's agent Tony Godsick confirmed Cahill will guide Federer initially in his comeback but would not say how long the two would work together.

The last time fans like ourselves saw our great hero was after his defeat at the Australian Open final in January.

We cannot wait for a triumphant return.

THRILLER

2009-03-10T07:21:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson will be taking over London's 02-Arena this summer. The 50-year old singer made the announcement earlier today before screaming fans and went a step further by donning this series of dates as "the final curtain call"

His 02 Arena residency will begin on July 8 2009 and will run for 10 nights.

VIDEO OF THE WEEK: CHRIS CORNELL's PART OF ME

2009-03-10T01:49:00.000-07:00

The former Audioslave frontman, Chris Cornell is doing a complete 360 with his new sound. 'Part of Me' and it's line-dancing inspired-video is a recipe for a great radio airplay.

The single is lifted from his new album 'Scream' on Interscope Records. A few reviews have panned the record but we would like to make our own judgements.

In the meantime, enjoy the first release from what could essentially be classified as a risk-album.

SOMEWHERE IN MEXICO...

2009-02-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

Rihanna is looking good considering........peep her perfect under-body in this picture.

SOME FRIDAY FUNNY.....YOU KNOW YOU'RE GHETTO IF...

2009-02-27T05:04:00.000-08:00

1. You've ever put foil on your TV antennas to get better reception.
2. You've ever had to use pliers to turn your TV on.
3. If you've ever been beaten with an extension cord.
4. If you've ever passed someone a note asking "Do you like me?" or "Can I have a chance?" check _yes, _no or _maybe.
5. If you have ever used dish washing liquid for bubble bath.
6. If you've ever ran from the police on foot, and if you got away
7. If you've ever had reusable grease in a container on your stove.
8. The batteries in your remote control are held in by a piece of tape.
9. If you've ever used any of the following for drinking glasses: jelly jars, mayonnaise jars, mason jars, or peanut butter jars.

FRIDAY TRACK: HAVE YOU EVER PUT FOIL ON YOUR TV ANTENNA TO GET BETTER RECEPTION? IF YES, YOU'RE GHETTO!

2009-02-27T03:30:00.000-08:00

How you doing?

Yep, yours truly found himself in the hospital for food positioning this week. Last Friday, I cleverly thought the foreign cuisine - Amala and Ogbono soup would be the ideal absorbent for my weekend drink consumption.... fast forward to 6 hours later, I was in a hospital bed with syringes in my left arm, I couldn't hold anything down and I was starving.

The only thing that got me through was my vivid fantasies of a hot bowl of soggy Indomie noodles with two boiled eggs sitting firmly by the side of the bowl. This desperate state of affairs helped in authenticating my high echelon of ghettoness.

So.....I thought how does one truly know if he or she is ghetto? As I had infinite time on my hands (after watching Jenifa Part 1 & 2 – Oscar-worthy!), I scribbled a number of past ‘ghetto-lystics’ antics of recent months.

1.You know you ghetto when everytime you go on holiday, you order rice as a side dish even if not highlighted as part of menu

2.You know you ghetto when you refer to ‘seeing someone’ as ‘toasting’

3.You know you ghetto when you live in London but ask you mum to send home videos or P-Squared’s latest CD

4.You know you ghetto when you walk into a Gucci store and only buy a keyring

5.You know you ghetto when in a rush you get on an Okada but wear sunglasses in hope no one would see your ass

6.You know you ghetto when you call Tomatoes – “Tomati”

7.You know you ghetto when you have Shina Peter’s Afro Juju at the back of your Case Logic

8.You know you ghetto when you start or finish your sentence with ‘you know, az in, i mean....’

9.You know you ghetto when you go to Dubai and visit the Burj Al-Arab - as a tourist

10.You know you ghetto when your name is Bobby Valentino

11.You even more ghetto when you like a song by an artist named Bobby Valentino

My name is Bobo Omotayo – I am G.h.e.t.t.o and this week’s Friday Track is BEEP by Bobby Valentino ft. Ludacris, Lil Wayne & Kim.

.... There is nothing wrong with being Ghetto-lly challenged – embrace that!

Enjoy!

THE RENAISSANCE MAN GOES TO PRINT

2009-02-25T00:49:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, it gives us great pleasure to tell you that we're going global. Yes, you heard right - The Renaissance Man has gone global.

Thanks to the beautiful people at The Guardian Newspaper, this blogsite has been given a weekly column in the international respected news franchise.

Now, it wouldn't be the Renaissance Man to do things conventionally hence we have put our own spin on the column space and created a weekly thermometer which ranks the most interesting things in music, arts, fashion, film and culture.

Our début was two weeks ago, kindly look at our last week's edition.

Comments please!

FRIDAY TRACK: BEWARE OF THE BBBs - BROWNS BEATING B****ES

2009-02-20T03:52:00.000-08:00

How's it going?

I promised not to discuss this matter any further and as many of you have so rightly pointed out, there isn't a single blogpost on this issue on The Renaissance Man's blog - but I have just seen the first released picture taken by the police of RiRi's face (www.theybf.com) - cheers TC, and I'm sorry I don't care what the crime is, this is ghastly.

Melody shared this with us yesterday and I think all women should make a mental note of this....(I pray I don't offend some friend somewhere that I've forgotten with a Brown Surname or worst still someone on the Friday Track list, if not, I apologise - you're the exception)

First there was James Brown beating up women
Then there was Bobby Brown beating on Whitney
Now It's Chris Brown beating up RiRi

If his name is Brown, RUN B***H RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This week's Friday Track is Paleface ft Kyla's Do you Mind. We like this!!!!!

"Cash ya....a mo see saw at next week Friday's parrrrry"

THE BRITS: .....NOT QUITE THE GRAMMYS

2009-02-19T06:55:00.000-08:00

Here's some 'swagger like us' red carpet behaviour from last night's Brits Awards.

Some winners and some .....ooooh Lords!

M to the I-S-T....double E Q....the one Alesha!

Alexa Chung: Don't believe the hype.

Alexandra Burke: Look at the faces of the spectators in the background. Shall we say 'confused' sums up their sentiments. Let's not even start on the electric blue-sclerosis. She is way to excited to be at an Award show.

Calvin Harris: Sorry buddy, it doesn't work. Try again next year.

Duffy: The Queen on her throne. Fantastic night - so well deserved.

Estelle: Ish-No-Think-So!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Girls Aloud: This picture looks starved of genuine love but the girls are our treats and we feel these cocktail getups. So Big Up!

Last and intended to be the least, Kate Perry - errrr....why is she here?

STEPPIN' STONE

2009-02-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

Duffy did us proud last night at the Brits Awards by winning a hat-trick. the 24-year old talent was the night's big winner scooping awards for best album, best British female solo artist and best breakthrough act.

We were very shocked that she didn't win a Grammy during the live televised segment considering how brilliantly strung together the songs on Rockferry.

She solidified her victory with a nice swear word on live TV during her third acceptance speech, she said: "I'm not going to lie to you, it's really not ------- easy. It's hard. It's really hard".

Thinking back, that is one serious album. 'Cop that!

LEGO: DON'T CALL IT A COMEBACK

2009-02-19T05:31:00.001-08:00

We are desperately trying to understand what this sudden obsession with LEGO (yes, LEGO - the multi-coloured building bricks that shaped most of your toddling years) in recent months is all about. From bags to wrist watches - LEGO has certainly made a comeback.

I'm personally looking forward to a LEGO-inspired condom. In the words of Lady GaGa, that'll be 'space cowboy....cherry cherry cherry boom boom'.

IF I COULD HIT THE SHOPS....

2009-02-19T03:40:00.000-08:00

I'd buy, a pair of Ralph Lauren's Blucher Mocs. (www.ralphlauren.com)

I'd buy, a Cartier Skeleton Santos

I'd move to Moscow to wear Raf Simons' Fall 2009 overcoat

Perhaps get over my obsession of owning a pair of Church's brogues and opt for the Florsheim by Duckie Brown brogues for half the price

THUMBS UP OR ISH-NO-THINK-SO?

2009-02-19T03:08:00.000-08:00

Wow....dilemma er....see what the team at the Renaissance Man are worrying about in today's age of a global recession.

Marc Jacobs and Kanye (the model above) have designed a pair of sneakers for the luxurious Louis Vuitton brand - I guess all kanye previous plugging finally paid off.

Our big dilemma is - does this look any different or better than a pair of Adidas Stan Smith?

Isn't this testimony that you can only design sneakers in some many ways - it don't have doodle to do with technology or creativity?

PULLING THROUGH

2009-02-19T03:00:00.000-08:00

You didn't have to have seen last week's Grammys but chances are you heard from a friend, read a post-event review or witnessed highlights.

It was a great night for music and some exceptional musical treats. The question on everyone's lips were how would Jennifer Hudson handle the bundle of interest?

The answer simply is....

Watch her performance. This woman was born to have a story to tell.

PASTELLE

2009-02-19T02:37:00.000-08:00

It must be one hell of a job to be Kanye West's publicist. I doubt if he or she actually gets any sleep.

As the Kanye news/ picture machine continues to roll, we received a press statement earlier which says Kanye will be focusing on his clothing label 'Pastelle' for the time being, hence don't expect an album drop in pending months.

The statement has some comic moments (I actually believe Kanye just takes the piss half-the-time during most press-related materials - he can't possibly believe all that he dishes out), he says he's ready to pour all his "superhero" energy into conquering fashion. Classic!

Love him or loathe him - He is Kanye.

STAY SPRING FRESH FELLAS

2009-02-05T07:29:00.000-08:00

It's credit crunch fellas but there's no point in showing the world that you too are feeling the pinch. Here are some spring essentials to make yourself feel and look good and you never know - it may be the start of a change of fortune.

Our favourite is the Surface 2 air "Wall Street Hotline" Tee - you gots to love it!

Carrera Champion Plastic Aviators
$150 - www.bloomingdales.com

Les Essentials Canvas computer bag
$650 - www.bloomingdales.com

Robert Geller leather zip bomber
$1,860 - www.blackbirdballard.com

Georg Jensen 18K gold watch
$6,500 - www.barneys.com

Marc Jacobs 5-eye lace up shoes in caffe-brown suede
$500 - www.bloomingdales.com

Surface 2 Air "Wall Street Hotline" tee
$80 - www.bblessing.com

'RENAISSANCE'

2009-02-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

Since we copyrighted the name 'The Renaissance Man', we are like hawks when we see anyone/anything which tries to identify with the name. Terence Howard's cover in the new Ebony Magazine 'The Renaissance of Terence' on the other hand, is just fine by us.

We need more name association of this calibre.

FUTURE 'BUSH' RELEASES

2009-01-28T03:59:00.001-08:00

ERRR......FASHION FORWARD?!!!

2009-01-27T06:36:00.001-08:00

Check out the irrepressible Kanye West & friends as they stun through the French capital.

The question is, is this a case of pushing the envelope intentionally or simply fashion forward?

You decide!

SONG OF THE WEEK: FREEZE

2009-01-27T06:19:00.000-08:00

This is a feel good number, lifted from T-Pain's forthcoming album "Thr33 Kingz", this is the energetic 'Freeze'

1 YEAR ON....

2009-01-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

A year has passed but the wounds remain unhealed.

Continue to Rest in Peace.

JANUARY 2009: ALBUMS ON ROTATION

2009-01-22T07:07:00.000-08:00

At the Renaissance Man headquarters, we know it's only right to start the year on the right foot and expand our minds with the best sounds around so as usual, here are the albums which our people recommend and you should get.

IF YOU VOTED FOR HIM....THEN PUT YOUR HANDS UP!

2009-01-22T02:35:00.000-08:00

It was inevitable that the "inauguration oath blunder" will take a life of its own in parody land but this is just too funny people.

It's a must see.

MALIA & SASHA OBAMA

2009-01-21T02:04:00.000-08:00

We have a whole new celebrity children focus people. Forget Bradangelina's kids, Suri Cruise, the Osbournes, The Hiltons although technically the last two families are no longer kids although they should be treated as one.

There are new kids on the block and these are not child stars or silver spoon brats, these are the Obama girls and what a tag-team they're destined to be.

You cannot resist their classy, every-smiling demeanour and you can bet your ass they're smart too after all First Mum & Dad both went to Harvard Law.

We cannot wait to watch these two grow up before our eyes.....they are just simply divine!

To Malia and Sasha....a toast. Turn that Oval Office into a child-friendly place of work, Daddy gon' need some child distraction every once in a while.

LOST FOR WORDS: MEET THE .....FIRST FAMILY

2009-01-21T01:48:00.001-08:00

"At last, my love has come along, My lonely days are over..."

Those were the beautiful Etta James words which showered the First Couple as they half-waltzed at one of the inaugural balls at Washington D.C last night.

It has to be the proudest moment for any wife to call her husband 'Mr.President' during their private moments on his day of inauguration.

For the risk of sounding like every other single news channel correspondent, social networking site activitist, bloggers, podcast, home mutterers.....this just continues to blow our minds at the Renaissance Man.

SONG OF THE WEEK: KID CURI VS THE CROOKERS

2009-01-14T01:45:00.001-08:00

You'll be hearing a lot about this chap in 2009, he recently featured on a song on Kanye West's 808 & Heartbreak concept album and has been doing his rounds on the scene with the industry decision-makers.

Here's his debut titled 'Day and Night'

A very catchy tune coupled with a hilarious promotional video.

TAMEKA....BUT WHY!

2009-01-14T01:02:00.000-08:00

1 in 3 people panned the new Usher album 'Here I Stand', 1 in 2 failed to understand his recent video images especially the travesty that is 'Moving Mountain', 1 in 1 are STILL trying to understand why he married his 40-year old bride and we can assure you more are likely to raise eyebrows as we reveal that Tameka Foster-Raymond will be the new addition to the US series 'ATL Housewives'.

Is it just us but ain't stars like Usher supposed to stay away from reality shows - the more we know about them, the higher the chances they lose their mystic. Can you just envisage Usher trying to convince us that he's no longer the 'pant-dropping-U-make-me-wanna-star' but the newly reformed dedicated father of one.

Savvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvve it!

GOLDEN GLOBES 2009

2009-01-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

The Award Season is well under way and what better way to make ourselves feel insignificant that to thrall through some fantastic looking people pictures - in our most desire outfits by our most loved designers.

Here are some highlights:

These Kids are actually tooooo cool for school!

A DIVA IS A FEMALE VERSION OF A HUSTLER.....

2009-01-08T05:36:00.001-08:00

Looks like we're over-doing the Beyonce swag today but fresh off the press...the new videos to singles "Halo" and "Diva" are smoking.

Watch the 'extra' swag on "Diva"....3 much!

B IS FOR BLACK.....DON'T MISTAKE IT!

2009-01-08T03:02:00.000-08:00

After the fuss kicked-off by the African-American community over The L'Oreal Group's campaign which showed one of its celebrity endorsers, Beyonce Knowles looking well... "whiter", this year's campaign images has just been unveiled and is it just us but doesn't she actually look like an person of ethnic-origin now?

Lets do the comparison ourselves, shall we?

2009

OLD

2008

BALDY

2009-01-07T05:29:00.000-08:00

We've been wanting reasons to further crucify Ne-Yo and his silly preoccupation with wearing a hat at every opportunity which has now been cleverly disguised as "the Gentleman's hat" - whatever!

We finally have put 2 and 2 together after stumbling on his Seattle Police mugshot and it looks like your fave 'so-sick' personality is balding.

Ha Ha Ha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I guess he kinda has to wear that hat otherwise he may be grouped in the OAP section at your local HMV store.

LEAVE PUFFY....LIVE ON THE STREET

2009-01-07T05:22:00.000-08:00

This is what falling in love with P-Diddy will do to ya. Audrey O' Brien has been confirmed to do Playboy for $500,000.

Has anyone ever noticed why no one who that has ever been produced/ guided by Puff "Call me Sean" Diddy Poopy Diddy Pop, never makes a success out of their talent after they part ways. Think about it, where is Ma$e, Total, 112, ....it's almost like working with Puff is a curse for real.

The only person who seems to be exempt from this curse is the man himself...Go figure!

DRU-TV.....NO NO NO NO!

2009-01-07T04:52:00.000-08:00

Someone better pinch me quick.....how the hell is DRU HILL, (i) going to try and make a comeback record then, (ii) anchor their very own TV reality show depicting their journey back to the top.

What part of N.O doesn't their record label understand. NO NO NO NO. We said it four times - hang them to dry.

I'D BEE DAMNED!

2009-01-07T04:43:00.000-08:00

You know you gotta look twice when you see Sasha Fierce's name in the same sentence as a Golden globe - I thought she was been nominated for the category 'Best alter ego"....I'd been damned!

The "I AM" Beyonce, on the other hand, has been nominated for her song 'Once in a Lifetime' from the upcoming movie 'Cadillac Records'.

Any more confusing shenanigans B?

CALL HIM WHAT YOU LIKE, HE IS THE PRESIDENT-ELECT

2008-12-28T15:36:00.000-08:00

I suppose it was extremely presumptuous on our path to think the negro-esque parodies, jokes, or slang would stop once the man of the year became the President-elect but I guess we were wrong.

Here's another ignorant song 'Barack the Magic Negro' doing its YouTube rounds and which the Sky News Channel has confirmed that the RNC Chairman defends.

Lord have mercy!