Since my commute is about an hour and some change, I made sure I stayed awake to dissect the issue. Though the contents within the publication aren’t geared towards hip hop, I advise ALL of you (even my female counterparts) to check it out. I mean since we’re all concerned with money, style, health, sex (those that are old enough lol) and success, why wouldn’t you?

As I’m reading the feature on S. Carter (a dope piece written by Anthony DeCurtis), I noticed in a separate section that Young H.O. reveals six important tips on how to keep your focus, energy, and passion at the same level as when it was conceived once you identified your main goal in life. Listen up, Boss Hova is speaking…..

Be Your Own Biggest Fan…
“Believe in whatever it is you’re doing. If you don’t believe it, no one else will.”

Take Control, Then Let It Go…
“Work really hard and apply yourself in a way that when the job is done, you can look in the mirror and say, ‘I’ve exhausted all possibilities. I’ve done everything to make this right’. After that, let it go: It’s out of your control.”

Focus On The Process, Not The Result…..
“People get consumed by the trappings of success. They forget the reason they wanted to do what they wanted to do in the first place. Whether you have zero money or a million dollars, it doesn’t change who you are. Keep yourself inspired.”

Never Act On Your Fears…
“Card players have a saying: ‘Play the cards, not the money’. If your hand is good, it doesn’t matter if there’s $2 on the table or $2,000. You determine your outcome. Don’t make decisions based on the fear. People can be jealous of you and bait you, but you can be mature and handle the situation.”

Use Money The Right Way…..
“For some people money can be a burden and lead to bad decisions. But money should make you comfortable so that you don’t have to compromise yourself or do anything just for money. It should give you the freedom to do what you love.”

Don’t Stop Growing…..
“Growth doesn’t stop when you’ve become successful. That’s when it starts.”

Feeling inspired, RIGHT? I know, me too. To continue this inspirational celebration, hit up the comments section and tell me what and who inspires you. Ready, Set, GO!!!

Sincerely

Low “Thanks, Hov….I needed this” Key

Of course, I drooled over the superb photography of the past 50 issues (they’re celebrating The Big 50 this issue) and decided which one I would get detained by the authorities for stalking (it’s a tie between Dollica Bryan and Porschla Coleman), but I also noticed an exceptional piece on 50 Cent written by Adam Matthews.

In the article, 50 touches on the severity of the U.S. economy, his career as an actor, retiring from the rap game, and his perception of wealth and how it’s been altered over the past few years. But before closing out, Fif also offered his perspective on who possesses the best model for staying relevant in the game. Read who he picked, below…..

50 Cent on who has the best model for staying relevant……

“Puffy has the best model for staying relevant, because he does it without a song. He’s been able to maintain an interest and stay in a space to executive produce television projects and stay relevant to hip hop culture. What was the last record that made you feel like, “Oh my god, Puffy is on fire?” You don’t need it. That’s what makes his business model exciting for me. There are only three of us to look at: Jay, me, and Puff. We have three totally different situations. We’ve just been a part of hip hop culture. That’s the similarity. I just think they’re the fire hydrant: You can’t move those guys off the street. I think they’ll still be the guys you need to connect with in the next few years to get a shot.”

Well put, Fif. Now, here’s my question to you guys: Outside of them, because I do believe there will be several others who have the ability to achieve the same relevance, who else will be able to maintain the same feat Puff’s been able to accomplish thus far??? Rappers, Producers, Singers….WHO????????

SOUND OFFF……PLEASE!

Sincerely

Low “Rest assured, I may sh*t on Puff from time to time, but the big homey handles his business” Key

If any of you frequent nightclubs throughout your glorious weekends, you’re probably already familiar with the aforementioned topic. Mavado’s, “I’m So Special” has become one of the BIGGEST club records, if not the BIGGEST club record in the last 6 months (hell it might be even longer than that).

I’m not that big of a reggae buff, but Mr. Mavado here has somewhat peaked my interest. Hell, even Hova’s a fan of the reggae specialist. Back in 2008, the hip hop titan jumped on the remix to “I’m The Rock”, which raised Mavado’s commercial following to another level.

Sincerely

Low “Ya’ll should see me in the club trying to do those crazy Jamaican dances” Key

Mavado- So Special

Jay takes Young Jeezy’s, “My President” and reinvents what it means to have a black President. Brought to you by B.E.T. You Haven’t Heard This

Jay-Z- My President |DC Mix|  

Like It, Love It or Leave It???????

Sincerely

Low “It’s a great day in American history and hip hop” Key  

Hopefully many of the attendees in Washington, D.C. took heed to my SPECTACULAR list I posted on Saturday, especially during their time in Club Love last night. Enough small talk, Jay and Jeezy took to the stage and did what they do best. CHECK IT OUT, BELOW

Sincerely

Low “My President is black, but his house is all white” Key

Jay-Z My President is black Remix LIVE 1-18-09 from benjamin Johnson on Vimeo.

I’m pretty sure a majority of you reading this are either partaking in the inaugural festivities as we speak, making the journey to DC at the current moment or posted up in your residence following every tidbit available for viewing. Though this is list isn’t for the latter, I would like for ALL parties participating this weekend to PLEASE take heed to the list I’m about to deliver. The world is watching; DON’T BLOW IT!

Without further ado, I present to you, Top Ten: The Ten Things You BETTER NOT Do In Washington D.C.

10. Ask for any sort of discount at ANY establishment. Remember, everyone’s President is black now, so the privileges you think you’re entitled to, jump in line….you’re not the only one. “That’ll be $15.75, sir” “Come one, haven’t you heard the news, my President is black”.

9. Please don’t give the MPD (Metropolitan Police Department) any reason to send 950,000 volts in your tushi. The last thing Barack Obama needs to be worried about is whether or not the cop on duty had a reason to defend himself. Act right, folks.

8. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT yell “GOTCHA” to anyone outside of the African-American culture. This is in no way a “GOTCHA” moment. Rubbing Obama’s victory in with boisterous banter while 80,000 other folks surrounding you consistently yell, “My President Is Black, My Lambo Is Blue” will sure ignite some tension.

7. Remember, this is a political atmosphere…treat this event like it needs to be treated. Treating the inauguration like its All-Star, Superbowl, Freak-Nik, or Spring Break weekend will only enhance the chances of #9.

6. Do not crash any parties/functions/gala/or balls. Yes, Jay-Z is having a party at Club Love. Yes, TI, Jeezy, Nas and Akon will be performing at the BET Inauguration, but that damn sure doesn’t give you any reason to act ignorant at the door because your favorite artists is inside singing your favorite tune. Be cordial. If they say “Keep it moving”, please do so in a timely fashion.

5. During the day of the inauguration, keep your heads, bodies and arms inside your vehicles. This is a different type of victory, celebrate it in a professional manner.

4. Do not head down to DC with the mentality of “I can’t wait to hit Jay-Z’s concert”. Our 44th President, whom is black might I add, is on the verge of getting sworn in, educate yourselves…somehow…someway. And if you wake up with a hangover after a night of partying, that ass better get up and educate yourselves just as hard. This is the wrong time to “Blame It On The Alcohol”.

3. I know it’s already occurring, but DO NOT go down there with the hustlers mentality. Leave all your “OBAMA” paraphernalia at home. Have some respect for Obama, I mean seriously. I know the economy is in shambles right now, but if you’re down there already, your financial status isn’t THAT bad.

2. Do not ask anyone of a different creed, culture or race, “Hey, how does it feel to have a Black President?”. You’re only setting yourself up for an insane amount of disrespectful responses which might include…..well, you’re not naive, just don’t DO IT!

1. If you happen to see or catch a glimpse of Barack Obama…PLEASE, I REPEAT, PLEASE, whatever you do……DO NOT YELL, “Barack, what up my N*GGA?” That sentiment right there will basically cancel out everything Barack’s accomplished thus far. Think I’m lying, take a quick glance right after you blurt out the moronic gesture…YOU’LL SEE!

Alright, I’m done. Be safe, have fun and remember…this is Barack’s Week…NOT YOURS!

Sincerely

Low “Congratulations Barack, we’re soooooooo proud of ya” Key

A source close to the couple adds, “It’s all they are talking about. She is carrying hip-hop royalty!” says the insider, who adds Kelis — currently in her first trimester — already has a little bump. “They are so excited.”

If it’s a boy, expect a militant street poet who will sport Kufi’s, fitteds, a Canary yellow Jesus piece along with latest Fila sneakers that Poppa Nas gave him for Kwanzaa. He’ll also call Young Hova’s offspring corny during the first day of 2nd grade which will later be solved with a closed doors meeting held by Biggie and Diddy’s sons.

If it’s a girl, well Kelis is already weird enough, so that’ll be a sight to see within it’s own right. Regardless, CONGRATULATIONS TO THE HAPPY/UNHAPPY COUPLE!

Sincerely

Low “The day my Lil LowKey arrives, ALL HELL SHALL BREAK LOOSE” Key

Lists’ like these are always difficult to construct. On one hand, you’re attempting to remember every song that was forced down your throat and actually considered “hot”. But then, on the other hand, I’m trying to keep in mind that just because I liked that song, doesn’t mean the entire universe had to fall in line with my opinion.

Either or, these songs held a significant amount of weight in 2008. Whether it was the impromptu love for the hook, the infectious beat or the illegitimate lyrics that made not 1/3 bit of sense, but you just HAD to recite them, these songs will be known as 2008’s Top Tunes. Oh, and if I’m missing any, don’t be shy…go head and add them in the comments section. ENJOY

10. T-Pain ft. Lil Wayne- Can’t Believe It

This track not only forged a BFF alliance between the two, but it EASILY took over radio DIRECTLY after its release. Soon after, the dread headed twins conceived “Got Money” and their highly anticipated joint Lp, He Raps, He Sings. I can’t believe it….no seriously…I CAN’T!

9. T.I.- Whatever You Like (Produced By Jim Jonsin)

“Whatever You Like” did some extraordinary damage on the Billboard charts thanks to a little help from “Lollipop” producer, Jim Jonsin. And thanks to T.I., every tender roni I encounter thinks she can have whatever she likes. Sorry ladies, keep that sentiment to yourself.

8. MIA- Paper Planes (Produced By M.I.A., Diplo and Stitch)

Though 2007 marked it’s official crash landing on earth and February 12 marked its official US iTunes release, “Paper Planes” didn’t gain official commercial and U.S. acceptance until it’s appearance in the movie trailer for “Pineapple Express” back in June. Shortly after, pretty much EVERY rapper and their sidekicks tried their hand at remixing the catchy tune. Oh, did I mention it snatched a Grammy nod for Record of the Year?

7. Alicia Keys- Superwoman (Produced By Alicia Keys)

A song dedicated to EVERY strong female in the world? Hell yeah it’s on here as well the list of nominees for the 51st Annual Grammy Awards (Best Female R&B Vocal Performance). I bet you Barack hears this song every time he glances at Michelle…

6. Neyo- Miss Independent (Produced By Stargate)

Neyo gained so many brownie points from the females because of the songs context and he ALSO gained an EXTREME amount of cool points from the fellas because of the bulky amount of eye candy trotting through the visual. It also didn’t hurt that he invited Jamie Foxx and Fabolous along for the remix. Only sad thing about this is every female with a debit card thinks she can claim independence….it’s ok to ask for help babygirl, we got you.

5. T.I. ft. Kanye West, Jay-Z & Lil Wayne- Swagger Like Us (Produced By Kanye West)

Only reason why this isn’t further down on the list is because A.) It was a late bloomer and B.) It wasn’t officially pegged as a single from T.I.’s project but played through every club, radio and ipod speaker on God’s green earth. Sidebar: Since “Swagger” is a word I sincerely hate right now, A HUGE thank you is in order for Kanye West and MIA.

4. Usher ft. Young Jeezy- Love In This Club (Produced By Polow Da Don)

First time I heard this lil ditty, I was hooked. I even thought Usher was heading in the direction of Confessions, but of course, I was let down to 8th degree. Regardless, Jeezy came correct, Polow did his thing, and Keri Hilson will FOREVER be my mistress of choice…sorry future Mrs. LowKey!

3. Beyonce- Single Ladies (Produced By Tricky Stewart)

It’s an amazing sight to witness when you’re standing by the bar, the first 12 seconds of this record comes on and you see EVERY female (Bartenders, waitresses, female janitors and female security guards included) go APE sh*t, gyrating in every way possible known to mankind. True story, I once saw a married woman secretly take off her wedding ring for 3:13 JUST to call herself a single lady and then put it back on as if the song never existed. DAMN YOU, BEYONCE

2 . Young Jeezy ft. Kanye West- Put On (Produced By Drumma Boy)

Everyone…and I mean EVERYONE (yup, even her) thought they were from Atlanta when Jeezy unleashed this massive hit to the public. It gave you the sense of urgency to rep WHEREVER you were from (yup, even her again) whenever this song tickled your ear drum. This was also the first time we heard Kanye exercise his right on T-Pain’s golden apparatus. I PUTTTTTTTT ONNNNNNNNNNN!

1. Lil Wayne- A Milli (Produced By Bangladesh)

1. Lil Wayne- Lollipop (Produced By Jim Jonsin)

Really…..do I NEED to explain myself on either of these?????

Sincerely

Low “At least ONE of these songs gets some kind of burn in my day to day operations” Key

Ummmm, WHAT????? Wait a god darn second…did Beyonce just unleash one of the most blasphemous statements against one of the families she probably studied during her “snooty” up bringing.

You know what, I’m going to give shorty the benefit of the doubt. I’m going to cease fire on this attack and assume her words were misquoted because there’s no way in the hottest day of Satan’s residence that she would be so quick to fly off at the mouth about this but wouldn’t utter Jay-Z’s name whenever someone said, “So, that guy you’re hanging out with, is that you’re love interest?”

On top of that, I heard Ms. Jackson isn’t too ecstatic about Bey’s illegitimate remarks. I’m sure Beyonce would love to have “Rhythm Nation” chasing that ass down. Anyway, what do you guys think? Did Beyonce step out of pocket with this one??????

Sincerely

Low “When keeping it ‘Diva’ goes wrong” Key

P.S. Papa and Mama Knowles, please come get your child!

In the case of me having to actually pick between the two; I probably would pick Neyo…only because his first album was during my last relationship and it basically told the entire story of how it played out. Just had to let you guys know lol…

The only difference, statistically, between the two is Neyo’s album count is already at three, so experience already ways heavy on the side of the Arkansas native (yes, Neyo is originally from Arkansas). In the past 2 years, both Neyo and The Dream have massacred writing pads with their unique penmanship showing no mercy for each other or the competition.

Neyo’s infectious material has channeled more so the opposite sex’s perspective more than the male’s, at times. Beyonce’s, “Irreplaceable” became a massive female anthem signaling every dishonest man to the left. And let’s not forget his breakout hit, “Let Me Love You” crooned by Mario back in 2004.

But on the other side of town The Dream, who began his writing tenure in 2003 after penning “Everything” for B2K, has also kept dance floors packed and radio airwaves filled via Rihanna (“Umbrella”), J. Holiday (“Bed”), Mariah Carey (“Touch My Body”), Mary J. Blige (“Just Fine”) and more recently, Beyonce (“Single Ladies”).

 Both are capable of writing hits for themselves and others, but it’s something distinctively unique about the both of them. Neyo’s material is more relationship driven; the heartaches and pains deriving from that particular situation. While The Dream, who can also channel the relationship commentary, has a bit more fun laminating the raunchy side of things (See Usher’s, “Trading Places”, lol). But hey, those are just my observations.

Time for the debate: Who Is A Better Songwriter; Neyo or The Dream?????? Having a hard time deciding? No worries, I’ve listed a throng of joints both artists have written in the last 3 years. ENJOY!

Songs written by Neyo

Mario- Let Me Love You (Turning Point, 2004)

Rihanna- Unfaithful (A Girl Like Me, 2005)

Neyo- So Sick, Stay, When You’re Mad (In My Own Words, 2006)

Beyonce- Irreplaceable (B’Day, 2006)

Rihanna- Hate That I Love You (Good Girl Gone Bad, 2007)

Neyo- Because of You, Can We Chill, Addicting, Go On Girl (Because of You, 2007)

Mary J. Blige- Work In Progress (Growing Pains, 2007)

Leona Lewis- I’m You (Spirit, 2007)

Usher- His Mistakes  (Here I Stand, 2008)

Rihanna- Take A Bow (Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded, 2008)

Neyo- Fade Into The Background (Year of the Gentlemen, 2008)

Jennifer Hudson- Spotlight (Jennifer Hudson, 2008)

Ciara- Supernatrual (Fantasy Ride, 2008)

Janet Jackson- This Can’t Be Good (Discipline, 2008)

Songs written by The Dream

Britney Spears- Me Against The Music (In The Zone, 2003)

Chris Brown ft. Lil Wayne- Gimmie What You Got (Exclusive, 2007)

Ciara ft. Ludacris- High Price (Fantasy Ride, 2008)

J. Holiday- Bed (Back Of My Lac, 2007)

Janet Jackson- Greatest X (Discipline, 2008)

Karina Pasian- 16 @ War (First Love, 2008)

Raheem DeVaughn- Customer (Love Behind The Melody, 2008)

Mariah Carey- Touch My Body (The Emancipation Of Mimi, 2008)

Mary J. Blige- Just Fine (Growing Pains, 2008)

Beyonce- Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) (I Am……Sasha Fierce, 2008)

Nivea ft. Lil Jon- Okay (Complicated, 2005)

Rihanna ft. Jay-Z- Umbrella (Good Girl Gone Bad, 2007)

Usher- Trading Places (Here I Stand, 2008)

The Dream- Living A Lie, Nikki, Playin In Her Air, Falsetto (LoveHate, 2007)

Come on….make the decision; Neyo or The Dream??????? 

Sincerely

Low “I’m Soooooo Sickkkk of love songs” Key