Archive for "2011"

My Two Cents: 50 Cent Offers Music Listeners A Signature Audio/Lifestyle Experience w/ Sync By 50!

Published by Gyant on Monday, December 12, 2011 at 6:13 pm.

These days hip-hop and headphones have become ubiquitous in the music industry. From Dr. Dre’s popular “Beats By Dre” – to Ludacris dabbling into the marketplace with his own signature headphones “Soul”. And while the aforementioned hip-hop brand’s ear-wear are getting a lot of attention, leave it to rap leader 50 Cent to corner the market and offer consumers something truly unique, and exclusive from all the rest. “Sync by 50″ is the new audio line that not only offers a sleeker — and more durable product than that of its competitors, but also offers a wireless device (yes I said wireless) so you’re not bogged down with endless wires catching on any and everything while you try to enjoy your favorite music. An innovative and small Kleer dongle about the size of a small matchbox is included. Insert, the dongle’s integral 3.5mm plug into your phone, iPod, or computer, and you’re guaranteed to get the same high sound quality you’d get with a cable.

While the audio craze has hip-hop headphones an unexpected boost to the economy and demographic, in a battle to create personalized signature products, oftentimes, they’re overpriced pieces of crap. And this is where Sync by 50 stands alone as the leading headphones I’ve experienced to date. What can’t be denied is the packaging. With a retail price of $399.00, you definitely feel apart of a private club because lets keep it real, not everyone will be able to be apart ‘Sync by 50′ due to the large price point.

The audio controls on the headphone allows for volume adjustments, and song selection. This feature allows you to scroll through your music collection with a blink of an eye [although the song switch functions didn’t work for me. #kanyeshrug.] However, the crisp audio sound blaring out Sync By 50 are music to my ears. The “thump” you receive from the bass is perfect. And will make for a perfect listening experience. With an eager hip-hop community pumping endless amounts of disposable income into the expressive and rebellious culture more so then any time in history, it’s clear consumers also want to hear today’s hip-hop music the best way possible. Sync By 50 is the next step in audio amplification that gets a certified A+ from Gyant on BET.

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The Scene: David Tutera’s (MY FAIR WEDDING) Breaks Bread w/ NYC & ATL Press

Published by Gyant on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at 9:57 am.

Last night I was super bummed that I missed out on opportunity to have a Q&A and dinner session with We TV’s David Tuetera. The celebrity wedding planner to the stars, is back with a brand new season of his hit reality show, “My Fair Wedding”. Luckily enough for us though 135th Street Agency was able to shoot me over some pictures from the event to share. In attendance was internet star Cadillac Kimberly and Dwight Eubanks of “Real Housewives” fame. Also in attendance were notable media reps from Essence, BlackBridaBliss & more.

Checkout the great pics and recap below:

David Tutera — celebrity wedding planner and star of WE tv’s MY FAIR WEDDING – completed a whirlwind press tour this week that included stops in New York and Atlanta. On Tuesday, Tutera screened an upcoming episode of his popular wedding makeover show at Pranna Restaurant for 50 NYC media and VIPs that included PEOPLE, NY Times, Associated Press, STAR, National Enquirer, EBONY/JET, Juicy, ESSENCE and author Tonya Lewis Lee. The following day, Tutera joined Atlanta press for an intimate dinner and screening at 103 West with CNN, Bossip, V103, KISS 104, AJC, Rolling Out, Cadillac Kim, SIR, BE-Entertained Mag, EURWeb and tv star/stylist Dwight Eubanks. All attendees were given a DVD copy of the best of MFW — Weddings WE Love: My Fair Wedding with David Tutera – and a rhinestone pin from Bridal Collection by David Tutera.

“Sharing my experience on MY FAIR WEDDING at these dinners has really been a lot of fun,” said Tutera during the post-screening Q&A. “I love seeing people’s reaction to the show, especially this season. We have some great brides with some truly, amazing stories. It’s our best season yet!”

MY FAIR WEDDING with DAVID TUTERA airs Sunday nights at 9/8c on WE tv! Visit the show at http://www.wetv.com/shows/my-fair-wedding.

Caddy Kim and Dwight Eubanks.

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Ne-Yo & “Red Tails” Gets Props From @Oprah After VIP Screening!

Published by Gyant on Monday, December 5, 2011 at 12:39 pm.

The homie Ne-Yo joined a star studded cast of one of January 2012’s most anticipated films “Red Tails”. Ne-Yo, accompanied by Oprah, Tyler Perry, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and the entire cast to this epic film, came together in Dallas over the weekend for a special screening of the historic film.

With Director Anthony Hemingway at the helm, “Red Tails” is collecting numerous accolades from industry elitists and beyond.

The movie is based on the Tuskegee airmen, a group of African American combat pilots during World War II, where Ne-Yo plays Andrew “Smokey” Salem. Ne-Yo, along with the rest of the cast that includes Cuba Gooding Jr, Terrence Howard, Nater Parker and more were in attendance.

The film was so amazing TV God, Oprah Winfrey even tweeted about it. And her best gal-pal Gayle King even showed some social media luv.

Though I haven’t seen the film, I’ve heard from many people that its beyond good.

“Red Tails” hits theaters on January 20th, 2012. Watch the trailer here.

The cast is rounded out by Terrence Howard, Ne-yo, Elijah Kelley, Nate Parker and Tristan Wilds, who I hear has his own story line and is in the whole film! He is the youngest Tuskegee airman.

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The Scene: @OfficialT103 w/ Boss Squad, Polow Da Don, Kevin Liles & More!

Published by Gyant on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 11:49 am.

Shouts to Thaddeus of Exclusiveaccess.net. Last night the highly anticipated documentary, “”Hustlers Ambition,” was screened to ATL’s vip’s. I wanted to attend, but at the last minute wasn’t able to make it. But I hear it’s a fantastic insight into the life and eyes of Jay Jenkins aka Young Jeezy.

A much larger Polow Da Don, Kevin Liles, V103’s Frank Ski, and whole lot more.

Per Thaddeus McAdams:

Last Night Young Jeezy turned the Midtown Arts Cinema into TM 103 Theaters as he filled up the theater to screen his Documentary “Hustlers Ambition”which was shot by director Chris Robinson & and narrated by Samuel L Jackson.

Awesome move in my opinion when I asked one person as the left she replied “Loved it I thought it showed a different side of him. It helps put his music into an even bigger perspective.” But don’t take our word for it its coming to a city near you and IT’LL BE EVERYWHERE DEC 20 make sure you cop it…

Checkout the pictures below.

HNIC of V103 Reggie Rouse, Jeezy and Kevin Liles.

A more rotund Polow, Jeezy and De’Vyne Interventions De’Vyne Stephens.

Shouts to “Who’s Smoking” Star Tree’s and his manager Sammie Davis of Boss Squad

Shouts to Drummer Boy

The man of DTP [behind Ludacris, of course 2 Chainz

Frank Ski..

Good times to be had. Again remember “Hustlers Ambition” hits theaters December 20th.

Props to Exclusive Access

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The Scene: Radio Personality Egypt Enlists, Kandi, Mayor Corey Booker, Ginuwine & More For Egypt’s Give Back Tour

Published by Gyant on Monday, November 28, 2011 at 4:28 am.

With the holidays in full affect, numerous public figures and celebrities are trying to get in there good deeds before the turn of a new year. NYC radio and TV personality Egypt is no exception, but is upping the ante a bit by making her philanthropy an eventful week. And enlisting some pretty big heavy hitters to lend a helping hand

Per Syreta Olgesby [Publicist to the stars]:

Egypt Sherrod continues to spread holiday cheer to the tri-state area’s residents who are in need the most by embarking on the 2nd Annual “Egypt’s Give Back Tour” taking place from
November 28-December 3, 2011.

Created in 2010 as the inaugural activity of the non-profit, Egypt’s Cares Family Foundation, Egypt’s Give Back Tour is a 6-day coat, toy, and fundraising drive. The goodwill tour will be anchored by a daily
5-hour radio live broadcast originating from locations in Brooklyn, Bronx, Harlem, Queens, Newark, NJ, and Plainfield, NJ (heard locally via 107.5 WBLS-FM and worldwide via WBLS.com). With the support
of the public last year, Egypt’s Give Back Tour received thousands upon thousands of coat and toy donations for New York Cares, Jersey Cares, Hudson Cradle, and The Children’s Aid Society.

“The goal for the Egypt’s Give Back Tour is to inform the public of how we all have an opportunity to make a difference. Something as small as a gently worn or unused coat or a new toy brought someone
happiness for the holidays. I thank the public for responding to the call of action and look forward to this years’ Egypt’s Give Back Tour being even more of a success!,” says Egypt.

Egypt’s Give Back Tour 2010 drew out the support of celebrities and notable politicians that include: Real Housewives of Atlanta/Warner Bros. Recording Artist-Kandi Burruss, Actress-Malinda Williams, Notifi Records Recording Artist-Ginuwine, Bronx Borough President-Ruben Diaz, Jr. and Newark’s Mayor Cory Booker.

“After a great 1st year, I’m excited that Egypt’s Give Back Tour returns with an extended 6th day in order to reach our listeners in Plainfield, New Jersey. Her idea is simple, but the effort is BIG! Helping local charities from Brooklyn to Newark is no easy task. But after seeing the support from WBLS listeners last year, we are excited to be back in the streets for a full week of live broadcasts in support of the less
fortunate the week after Thanksgiving! My only wish for the Season is that Egypt’s wonderful effort will inspire others to do the same,” says Skip Dillard – WBLS Program Director.

When I get pictures I will be sure to share them with you all.

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Final ATL Live of 2011 w/ Brandon Hines, Dondria, Luke James & More!

Published by Gyant on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at 9:09 am.

Last night, Shanti Das and Marlon Nichols’ ATL LIVE ON THE PARK hosted by Kenny Burns ended their second season with an evening of powerhouse performances. R&B singer Lil Mo’ headlined the show, singing several favorites (“Superwoman,” “4Ever”) as well as new tracks from her independent album P.S. I Love Me. Much buzzed-about Def Jam artist Luke James wowed the crowd with a stunning voice and heartfelt performance of his single “I Want You.” 90’s R&B group Soul4Real paid a musical tribute to their late mentor and producer Heavy D, while So So Def/Epic newcomer Brandon Hines –introduced by Jermaine Dupri – gave the crowd a taste of his Marvin Gaye-like vocals.

Additional attendees included Dondria, Dave Hollister, Chaka Zulu, Roger Bobb, Demetria McKinney, Devyne Stephens, Ronnie Devoe and Peter Thomas.

ATL LIVE ON THE PARK will return March 2012. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/shantidasandmarlonnicholspresents.

Brandon Hines.

Peter from “Real Housewives of Atlanta, Shanti Daas, and Kenny Burns.

Photos: James Pray

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Fashion Forward: Morehouse Students By Day @Kreemo Businessmen By Night!

Published by Gyant on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 12:54 pm.

Anybody who lives in Atlanta knows that its a hub for entrepreneurs probably more than any city. Here you can easily be walking down the street and pass an unsuspecting fashion mogul. And, three Morehouse students are echoing their entrepreneurial spirit with a relatively new fashion line that’s drawing a great buzz in the music industry — and Atlanta.

Per GU.com:

Aimed at the youth, the brains behind the exciting fashion line, Lavan Wright, Brian Wright and Desmond Attmore have released their fall line to waves of excitement. Type in Kreemo in google and you’ll see an onslaught of endless blogs, fashion critiques and praise for the new line that can’t be ignored.  From Atlantic Records recording star Wiz Khalifia to a handful of other public figures, it seems everyone is hopping aboard the Kreemo train to fashion forward independence.

Though Gyant media is currently hashing out details for a full-fledged interview, one of the aforementioned founders Brian Wright sent me some images from this years fall collection. Replacing the vibrantly colorful tee’s come some interesting warmer pieces that’s driving the kids into chaotic frenzy on college campuses across the country.

An interesting line indeed.

Buy Kreemo HERE

Checkout Kreemo Blog Here

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Gyant on BET Blog: McDonalds & Complex Magazine Kick Off “Flavor Battle” DJ Competition!

Published by Gyant on Monday, November 7, 2011 at 6:50 am.

McDonalds along with Marc Ecko’s Complex magazine has teamed for an epic battle circling today’s hottest DJ’s. “The Flavor Battle DJ Competition,” which kicks off today.  Leveraging the popularity and taste of their big burgers, McDonald’s®  launched the 2012 McDonald’s Flavor Battle, a national Disc Jockey (DJ) competition celebrating the artistic mix-masters who spin their creative blend of music at dance clubs and parties across America.

Music and big burger lovers can vote online daily for their favorite DJ, each representing one of three McDonald’s big burgers at http://www.flavorbattle.com . The top three Flavor Battle DJs will compete for a $10,000 grand prize. The McDonald’s Flavor Battle competition is being conducted with men’s style and lifestyle network Complex Media.

This year the DJ competition holds a special place for Atlanta as budding superstar DJ — and master of ceremonies each week at Club Mansion– is competing. DJ Tephlon’s skills are epic and is slowly gaining him world wide exposure. From holding down all the exclusive parties, to developing a standout brand, Tephlon is definitely a true representer of Atlanta and needs all of our support to land him in this competition.

Here’s what you gotta do: 

1. Log onto http://www.flavorbattle.com

2. Enter email address & date of birth

3. On left side of screen select, “DJ’s,”

4. Select box under DJ Tephlon’s image

5. Select two more DJ’s from each reigon and then click “vote”

Flavor Battle is a nationwide DJ challenge of the top 24 DJs from across the U.S. Participants receiving the most votes will advance in the competition. The three DJs with the most votes will travel to the finale in Miami and compete for the $10,000 grand prize. One DJ will be crowned the 2012 Flavor Battle winner by a panel of celebrity judges.

Lets all rally around one of Atlanta’s newest DJ’s destined to take over the game.

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Gyant on BET: Download Of The Day: @TheBossTree’s Drops New Mixtape, “Who’s Smoking”!

Published by Gyant on Monday, November 7, 2011 at 6:23 am.

You guys know I’ve been a huge supporter of Boss Squad. With a successful stint of their collective, “Tipper,” the crew is moving on to present B.S’s recording artist Tree’s.

With a brand new EP collecting critical acclaim from the likes of hip-hop site Onsmash, “Who’s Smoking,” the first from the tree blowing MC, is now available for an exclusive BET.com download. With production by The Olympicks, Ebonikz, Komplexx and more. This is going out to everyone is a fan of the peace herbals.

01. Okay (Prod. by Ebonikz)
02. That’s Me (Prod. by The Olympicks)
03. Koca-Kola (feat. Extream) (Prod. by Swole)
04. Cologne (feat. Mykko Montana) (Prod. by Komplexx)
05. Lose My Mind (Prod. by Komplexx)

[Download]

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The Scene: @Classic_Cannon Brings Special Sneak Peek of “Osiris,” To Atlanta!

Published by Gyant on Friday, November 4, 2011 at 9:33 am.

Last night one of my most favorite music industry affiliate — and personal friend Cannon Kent– held her very first ATL event. Joined by the cast of the dynamic webseries, Osiris,” Cannon invited top Atlanta tastemakers to come out and meet and greet with the cast. As well as get an exclusive sneak peek of the fantastic premise.

While I wanted so badly to attend, the ATL weather was horrid and subsequently was forced to miss the event. But luckly enough for me — and all of you– I got the Gyant on BET blog to give you all some scoop:

Per Cannon’s press release:

Pyramid Pictures debuted “Osiris the Series” at a private Press Screening hosted at the Green Room Actor’s Lounge, Thursday November 3, 201l. A special sneak peek of the first five episodes, accompanied by, an Q & A session with the cast and producers following the screening. Special guest such as actress Terri J. Vaughan, B.E.T Executive Noni Nichols, and Filmmaker Roger BoB all made an appearance in support of the project.

The World Premiere of the first episode launched online http:// www.OsiristheSeries.com as well as, iTunes on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 8:00PM EST.

“Osiris” is an energetic web series with a target market between the ages of 18-45.

Osiris: The Web Series is a new 10-episode action-thriller Internet Television series filmed in the diverse backdrop of Atlanta featuring gritty crime fiction, espionage, science fiction and the supernatural. Each episode is 5-8 minutes long and features a jaw dropping cliffhanger! In the vein of classic shows like True Blood, Lost and 24, “Osiris” will be addictive television for the web!

The series follows the title character “Osiris”, a man with an eternally extended warranty on life. He can never stay dead. If killed, he resurrects in EXACTLY 37 minutes, every time.

As the series begins, Osiris has only 24 hours to track down a kidnapped witness in a federal murder trial. His dangerous hunt not only unravels a conspiracy but it also unveils clues to the true nature of his eternal life.

Starring:
Brad James (Single Ladies, The Haunting in Georgia, Tyler Perry’s For Better or Worse) Nicky Buggs (Secret Life of Bees, The Fighting Temptations, Army Wives)
Stephen Caudill (Dance of the Dead, Madea’s Big Happy Family)

Written and Directed by Donnie Leapheart
Producers: Rodney Breedlove, Terrance Claiborne, Donnie Leapheart, and LaQuanda Plantt

While you all know we don’t post youtube clips on BET.com, [google it if you want to know why], I believe I am not violating any TOS by giving you all a ink to the trailer, which is superb.

Major shouts to Cannon Kent for the excellent post coverage recap.

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