theblagg

The Closest Look at the Nike Air Yeezy 2...So Far

2011-12-19T14:31:00.003+02:00

After Ye beeeeeeen rocking the Air Yeezy 2, we got a closer look at the kicks which are dropping early March 2012. What do ya'll think?

Jordan Spizike “Bordeaux”

2011-12-15T15:59:00.003+02:00

Jordan brand have created a monster yo!!! This is how a Jordan Frankenstein would look like. The Jordan Spizike “Bordeaux” which is set to drop in February is crazy!!! Check it out and let us know what you think.

Kanyi - "Ingoma"

2011-12-07T12:23:00.005+02:00

We think Kanyi is probably one of the most anticipated in SA right now, especially after getting a nod from Mr Molekane who raved about her on twitter and even put her in his list of Top 10 emcees to watch in 2012.
Here's her video for her song "Ingoma"

How cool is this cover art?

2011-12-07T11:07:00.006+02:00

Fashawn recreated this classic Slick Rick pic for his Champagne and Styrofoam Cups ( Which is due out in March 2012) cover art. We always dug this pic heavy. Peep the video of the making and the tee thats coming out as well.

Kanye West and Jay-Z “Watch the Throne” Tour Behind-the-Scenes

2011-12-05T16:18:00.002+02:00

"What more can I say????", Just peep the vid.

Lupe Fiasco - I Don't Wanna Care Right Now ft. MDMA

2011-12-05T13:58:00.002+02:00

After Lasers was hated on by most critics and reviewers, Lupe scores three Grammy nominations( Best Rap Album, Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song ). How dope is that?

Fresh from the nominations, Lupe drops a video for "I Don't Wanna Care Right Now" featuring MDMA. Peep it below and let us know what you think.

Air Jordan IV White Cement

2011-12-01T11:37:00.002+02:00

Continuing with our Air Jordan appreciation, here's the Air Jordan IV White Cement which is said to be dropping February 2012. Peep the heat and let us know what you think.

theblagg Recommends: Childish Gambino

2011-11-30T14:31:00.002+02:00

Besides being an awesome actor ( Troy in Community ) Donald Glover is a dope rapper as Childish Gambino, which is a name he found through the Wu Tang Clan name generator. His new album Camp is really dope and we suggest that you chek it out. Here is a performance of "Bonfire" which is one of the songs off Camp. Peep it and let us know what you think.

undun

2011-11-30T14:08:00.004+02:00

The Roots streamed their newest album, undun, last night even though it's only due for release on December 6 in America. For those of you who already found some way to listen to and keep the band's 13th album, don't tell us. For everyone else, if you haven't yet but would like to hear ?uestlove and co, then click on NPR'S First Listen. Trust us, this will be the best 39 minutes (and some change)of your day. Go.

Chicks and Jordan Kicks

2011-11-30T09:35:00.004+02:00

We love ladies who rock Jordans!!...Too obvious that dude wrote this post huh? Doesn't matter, just check the ladies out in their J's.

Va$htie Kola in her own Jordan II's

Teyana Taylor in Carmine Jordan VI's

Tracee Ellis Ross in Jordan V's

Ciara in Jordan IX's

Dude's Drug of Choice

2011-11-29T13:48:00.003+02:00

Dude is head over heels for the Black Cement Jordan III's. This post is just dedicate to Dude's drug.

Here are some of Dude's favourite people in his favourite kicks.

Kendrick Lamar

Kanye West

Michael Jordan

Jay Z

Watch The Throne in Canada

2011-11-25T14:08:00.003+02:00

Dear Father Christmas

I have been a good boy this year. Can you please give me two golden circle tickets to the event below. Thanks

Regards,

Dude

The Weeknd - The Knowing ( Music Video )

2011-11-25T13:59:00.002+02:00

Just watch and let us know what you think.

HowAboutBeth

2011-11-25T11:08:00.005+02:00

Her full name is Beth Mburu-Bowie, now she goes by HowAboutBeth and Phiona introduced us. You like?

POWERMAN by HowAboutBeth

Summertearz

2011-11-23T15:31:00.003+02:00

Just. Watch.

Little Dragon - Summertearz from SONGS THEY PLAYED on Vimeo.

The ReMINDers

2011-11-23T13:21:00.002+02:00

Big Samir and Aja Black are The ReMINDers.

The Reminders- You Can Count on Me by mashouf

Post-Black and Post-Racial

2011-11-18T15:45:00.004+02:00

The Ordinary Girl likes Toure a lot. But over the years, there are two things that continue to baffle yet impress (I don't know how that works, either) me. One is the fact that he has a wife - I won't go into more detail. And the other is that he has managed to make a name for himself with just one name to go by. Like Prince. Or Madonna. That's cool. But what some people are saying isn't cool, is Toure's new book, Who's Afraid Of Post-Blackness: What It Means to Be Black Now. I hope to read it soon but I haven't yet so I can't speak on it. However, there have been talks about these buzz phrases; "post-black" and "post-racial." In the video below, Toure, my Amanda Seales and Baratunde Thurston speak on the two and their differences. What do you make of all of this?

#NBIF11: What's the Difference Between "Post-Racial" & "Post-Black"? from Boldaslove Magazine on Vimeo.

Tekitha Don't Care

2011-11-18T15:34:00.003+02:00

Wu Tang is for the kids. Some of us will be grown ass kids forever, that's fine. But I've never known anyone to like Wu-affiliate, Tekitha, as much as Dude. He went bananas over this Creative Control video. So, blaggers and blaggettes, it's only fair that we share it with you too.

"I Don't Care" from Creative Control on Vimeo.

theblaggTV: Spaza Shop Boyz Performance

2011-11-18T14:02:00.005+02:00

theblaggTV caught a dope performance by Spaza Shop Boyz, who recently dropped their debut album. Check out Jonny Joburg and Sir Charlie Macc rock Wits rooftop.

Hip Hop Confessions

2011-11-17T17:01:00.001+02:00

Because few things are more important to The Ordinary Girl

Skillz presents: Hip-Hop Confessions ep. 9 -- Ladies First from Visually Inklined on Vimeo.

Stuff We Like

2011-11-16T09:57:00.006+02:00

theblagg is about as mixed as a Fouro. That’s word to all you kidults who grew up making six-o and stuff. Anyway, both The Ordinary Girl and Dude’s parents are black people, who although speak different languages, have always been people of the South. And that’s word to Dali Tambo and his pillows. But that’s as far as our roots go. Some people, like Lila Anton, have a far more interesting ethnic make-up. This striking individual’s mom is black, her dad is white – both are American but settled in Japan in the 70s. She was born in Japan and Japanese is her first language aaaaaaand she’s studied in Ghana and Palestine. Cool, right? Well, she thinks so. That’s why she made a documentary about it. It’s called A Raizin In The Sun and sounds like a lot of fun. Snippets of Lila’s life have already been put on the ‘net and this is just one of them:

RAIZIN IN THE SUN EP 4 from Creative Control on Vimeo.

PS: Sorry Akio, The Ordinary Girl still won't get down with the cuisine

Krump Queen at Red Bull Beat Battle

2011-11-15T09:07:00.005+02:00

With a few titles under her belt (including Krump Queen), Bianca aka Snow, is the only female in the Royal Fam Kings group. RFK and seven other crews (which vary in style from pantsula to b-boying) will take part in the Red Bull Beat Battle dance competition that takes place at The Blue Room inside Park Station this Saturday night. Get your tickets at Computicket

De-What-Now?

2011-11-14T17:33:00.002+02:00

Denouement
1. a. The final resolution or clarification of a dramatic or narrative plot.
b. The events following the climax of a drama or novel in which such a resolution or clarification takes place.

2. The outcome of a sequence of events; the end result.

TiRon and Ayomari. dream hampton. A Sucker For Pumps.

Denouement ft. Dream Hampton by TiRon & Ayomari

What Does MC Lyte Think of Nicki Minaj?

2011-11-14T13:44:00.003+02:00

Everybody and their momma got something to say about Onica but its very interesting to hear what respected female emcee, MC Lyte, has to say. Peep the vid below

Ill Skillz - "Coolest In Da City" feat. Stan1

2011-11-11T15:19:00.003+02:00

The Cape Town crew drop another music video yo. This one features Stan1. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Red Bull Music Academy of Hip Hop

2011-11-10T13:33:00.004+02:00

We wish!!!

Although the Red Bull Academy is not just for Hip Hop, these two guest lecturer's mean a lot to MY Hip Hop. Red Bull Music Academy Madrid had Young Guru ,who is Jay Z engineer and the voice on the intro of fratpack's Not In The Mixtape, and MF Doom who is an emcee that is heavy in the "Underground" Hip Hop scene. Check the vids out below.

Young Guru

MF Doom

Just when you thought that was dope, here is the cherry on top....ERYKAH BADU!!!

While we are talking bout tees...

2011-11-10T12:45:00.003+02:00

While we're on the subject of tees, here is an interesting vid about the future of T-Shirt Graphics. Very interesting stuff yo. Peep it below.

The Ordinary Girl says I have become obsessed with tees...hmmmmm...she might be right.

Givenchy Watch The Throne Tour T-Shirts by Riccardo Tisci

2011-11-10T12:30:00.004+02:00

You already know more than enough about Jay and Ye right?...This is not about them but more about the Givenchy Watch The Throne Tour tees. Check em out and let us know what ya'll think.

The Roots – Make My video teaser

2011-11-07T16:33:00.003+02:00

The new Roots album dropping December 6 but til then here is a teaser for the lead single video "Make My". Peep and tell us what you think.

Kool Turkey

2011-11-04T11:05:00.002+02:00

Kool Out Live. Cold Turkey. Cape Town. Tonight.

Pac Div - "Posted"

2011-11-04T08:16:00.003+02:00

Rumour has it that Pac Div could be coming to South Africa. I hope this is true. Til then though, here's their video for their single "Posted".

Beyonce - Party feat. J. Cole

2011-10-31T10:37:00.002+02:00

The Ordinary Girl gon love this. Not much more to be said but peep the video and tell us what you think.

Common - Blue Sky

2011-10-31T09:27:00.004+02:00

The homey Instro put me on to this No I.D. produced Common joint called "Blue Sky" and I told him that I haven't fully recovered from the Universal Mind Control album.

Despite all that, I gave it a listen...I LOVE IT. Common coming across hungry and "going hard in the paint like Dwayne Wade". The beat? Bananas!!! Here's the video for it below directed by Parris. Let us know what you think.

PS: We can't wait for The Dreamer/The Believer album to drop this December.

Converse *>

2011-10-25T13:14:00.003+02:00

All the cool things happen in Joburg. Sigh. The Converse Halloween Block Party will be shutting down Town Hall in Jozi on October 28 from 9pm. There will be four stages featuring the likes of Mr Sakitumi (do NOT miss this) as well as Sibot, DJ Kenzhero, Desmond and The Tutus as well as a French DJ duo called Stereo Heroes. And if the X-Factor bug has bit you too, what you’re thinking of is probably the Stereo Hogz. Or if MTV is getting on your last nerve with that Gym Class Heroes song, Stereo Hearts, we understand too. However, all that has nothing to do with the Stereo Heroes. These guys are completely different. Anyway, the adidas minibus is cute, the Puma one is fuctional but the 18-wheeler Converse Truck (which has been travelling around campuses) has all sorts of awesomery in it. Check it out:

"Does Anybody Love"

2011-10-24T10:33:00.001+02:00

Dude found this joint lurking on these mean internet streets. I'm not gon front like I know anything about Translee or Eddy Fontaine. I will say this though: This joint is dope. Peep the vid and tell us what you think.

Breezy Got Bars?

2011-10-21T16:49:00.002+02:00

Does he? You be the judge, peep the vid and let us know what you think.

theblaggTV chats to the creators of W.A.T.E.R.

2011-10-20T10:58:00.003+02:00

theblaggTV chops it up with Chocolate Seruno and Mandisi Lean about their streetwear brand W.A.T.E.R. ( Winners Achieve True Excellence Religiously )

theblaggTV chats to the creators of W.A.T.E.R from theblagg TV on Vimeo.

Reed Between The Lines

2011-10-20T09:18:00.004+02:00

First of all, I’d like to say: I really don’t like Joan for Theo. But on the other hand, she finally got married - even if it wasn’t to Shawn. Now let me stop comparing my favourite series with real life. Tracee Ellis Ross and Malcolm Jamal Warner star in Reed Between The Lines – which premieres on BET in South Africa on 15 November but you can catch a preview of the series on 25 October just before the repeat of the BET Hip Hop Awards. In this series, the pair are married. She’s a psychiatrist and he’s an English professor. Mmmkay. They’ve got three kids and meddling co-workers. I, for one, am always tickled when Tracee is on screen. So I’m very excited to see how this new show pans out. And if it’s a choice between her being all hugged up with Theo Huxtable or Akon’s little brother, I choose Shawn. Nevermind me.

Let's Play Catch-Up

2011-10-19T15:19:00.004+02:00

Picture borrowed from HERE

As you may or may not know, Dude was a part of the STR.CRD blog challenge a while back and while in it, he got to shoot some pretty dope material. Now the competition is over and I know that some of you may not have been able to attend the Joburg showcase or just may not have seen this footage. Shot on theblaggcam and edited by Dude, this is a quick gonzo-like interview he did with Ofentse’s friend in the head, Va$htie and after that video, a dope performance by Cape Town’s own, Ill Skillz.

Va$htie:

Ill Skillz:

A Solo Medley

2011-10-19T15:08:00.002+02:00

Props to Sapatilhas Femininas for the visual

When The Ordinary Girl still had an internet friendly J-O 9and when Solange still had a weave), she came across this, changed the format and shoved it down Dude's ears for dayyyys. No Nonhle. So I thought I might share it with you guys. The sound quality is dodgy at times but hey, she's hella cool so...try and enjoy it.

Solange F the Industry medlee from Courtney Wade on Vimeo.

2011-10-19T14:47:00.002+02:00

Jealous down, Erykah Badu is all kinds of magnif. Two years ago, Steven Lopez, an artist who is well known for his After Midnight series of paintings did something really special with the Analogue Girl In A Digital World. Lopez’s series sees him paint vibrant portraits of the artists whose music influences him, while the chosen joints are being played. So when painted Seven’s mommy, he didn’t really know how far the art would go. But Badu actually hooked up with Lopez to sign 100 limited edition prints of the painting to sell in aid of her charity, BLIND aka Beautiful Love Incorporated Non-Profit Development. The After Midnight initiative is quite a cool series featuring the likeness of Sade, Jill Scott and many more soul powerhouses. What do you guys think of the work?

Erykah Badu and Artist Steven Lopez collaborate for social change from Steven Lopez on Vimeo.

The Revival

2011-10-19T09:47:00.002+02:00

I don't know why I never posted this - even though I thought I did. Enjoy.

THE REVIVAL from EMERGENCE Media on Vimeo.

Introducing SIYA...again

2011-10-18T11:27:00.002+02:00

You already know we dig her. Here's a video to give you more personal view of SIYA.

Introducing Siya EPK from Four Kings Productions on Vimeo.

But wait!! There's more!!! Here's the new music video for "Heaven".

W.A.T.E.R. Launch at DOPE store

2011-10-17T14:07:00.003+02:00

Choclate Seruno and Mandisi Lean launched a brand called W.A.T.E.R. (Winners Achieve True Excellence Religiously) at DOPE Store in Johannesburg. theblaggTV was there to capture the vibe for you. Peep the vid below.

Ursula Rucker

2011-10-14T11:25:00.004+02:00

When The Roots’ fourth album, Things Fall Apart, came out, The Ordinary Girl still believed in a lot of things. My fingers lingered over YMag articles. I carried MP3 compilations, which always, always listed some or other Aesop Rock album first, from school to home and back again frequently. I sat in on the recording sessions that saw my brother’s beats become the bed for budding rappers to lie on. Really now, straight from the dome in the booth? Ha. I’m just kidding guys, don’t be mad. Aaaaaaaanyway.

Everyone came to my house. It was like a mens hostel, except these rappers weren’t quite men yet. My brother’s room is where the computer stayed and the speakers were loud (even though my screechy voice was louder). So whenever I had a moment alone with the PC - which was rare - I would sit in my brother’s room. I’d listen to this Things Fall Apart album and watch the Media Player’s colourful lazer lines sprout from the centre of the screen with every thump of Thought’s rhymes. But my favourite bit of the album wasn’t even by a member of The Roots.

It was Ursula Rucker’s Return To Innocence Lost.

Rucker has often featured on The Roots' albums but this particular piece (all damn near 12 minutes of it) had a profound effect on me and especially in how I write today. I don’t know what Rucker’s words meant or mean to you, but I do know that they made me realise the world was a much bigger place than I thought it was then. And I didn’t even have to leave my brother’s room to find this out. Tracking down some footage of this beautiful woman performing Return To Innocence Lost is incredibly difficult, so shout out to Otis Groove for making this accessible. It’s obviously not exactly what you’ll hear on Things Fall Apart, but perhaps this will prompt you to go get this album if you don’t already own it.

Ursula Rucker return to innocence lost (prod by Otis Groove) from Otis Groove on Vimeo.

fratpack at Campus Reboot

2011-10-14T10:07:00.003+02:00

fratpack. Saturday. Club Illusions, Vanderbijlpark, Vaal Triangle. R80. Doors open at 6pm

OKMKKHK

2011-10-13T16:12:00.004+02:00

No, that title is not some code acronymn for a racist sect that wears pointy hats. It's actually Dirty Paraffin's OKMalumKoolkat's Kool Hunting Klub. Mouthful, right? DP has always had a unique way of expressing themselves through their clothes so it comes as no surprise that one of their endeavours would be clothing. Also known as DJ PartyTime, this half of DP has a pop-up space at the DOPEstore on 30 Loveday Street in Johannesburg. But it's there for a limited period so make sure you make your way down there. The jacket worn above is actually one of the pieces that you can find in the space. As seen below, there is plenty more for you to feat your eyes on. All pictures lifted off Malume's blog.

I Know My Birthday's Passed But...

2011-10-13T15:32:00.004+02:00

Can someone, anyone, please hook me up? About three years old, MadeMe is a clothing brand that makes some of the phlyest clothes. Like this Perfecto Motorcycle Jacket that's a collaboration between MadeMe and Schott NYC. As you can see, the inside features a cool flower pattern lining by Liberty Of London. This beauty was going for over $600 - do the math - so it would be rad if someone slipped a sista one... Just saying.

A Hot Winter

2011-10-13T15:14:00.002+02:00

South Africans don’t have to worry about cold weather for a couple of months. Unless they live in Cape Town where everyday, at least for an hour, can feel like winter. The Ordinary Girl is always cold. Like always. Meet me anytime, anywhere and I’ve got a cardigan or coat on. I can’t help it. But even I wouldn’t wear these Nike Air Baked sneakers. I know they are supposed to keep you warm and all but...really? You can find them in Motion, which is suede and fur on top or the cotton and crotcheted ones or all fur everything in the normal Mids. Sigh. What do you think blaggettes?

A fratpackular weekend

2011-10-12T12:24:00.004+02:00

Those Vaal Triangle boys, me and Mr Calibre, will perform at Club Illusions (in the V) on Saturday night. As you can see on the flyer, young Kiernan will also do his thing. Interestingly - yes, I just said that - fratpack put their own spin on AKA's hit, All I Know and called in Plan B. The pseudo-vocoder is really funny (sorry, Dude) but the message is dope. Listen to it here:

Plan B by fratpack

Fly On A Budget

2011-10-12T11:07:00.002+02:00

This is Maluca Mala. The Ordinary Girl finds her interesting. Do you? This is the first episode of her own day-in-the-life vibe reality show. Hers are called Wepasodes. What do you think?

MALUCA WEPASODE #1 'Fly On A Budget' from Bijoux Altamirano on Vimeo.

I Want These!

2011-10-11T16:08:00.005+02:00

One of these days I'm going to stop throwing this disclaimer out there but for now, here it goes: I know these aren't new BUT...[insert suspense movie music here]
I love these Asics Gel Lyte III 2.0! These beauties are the second collaboration between Nice Kicks, Ronnie Fieg and Asics. Dude is such a fan of the first collab and the lady who was wearing them HERE that he wrote about it. Hm. Only 300 were made last year so I'll probably never get my hands on them. But at least I can still look at them here. And so can you. Pweeeeeety, right?

How dope is this little chain? Apparently, it was made by Gabriel Ulrist for designer, Ronnie Fieg's birthday.

Another Memory

2011-10-11T14:39:00.003+02:00

I was lying on the bed. Hoping the sweat would run down my arms slower if my limbs lay flat. The sun in the Sunninghill suburb is relentless. It laughs in the face of the word scorcher and considers sunscreen stupid. So I was laying there, resigned to being in a furnace. The windows were wide open and so were Dude’s eyes. He was standing in the middle of the room and I was wondering if his thin frame was blocking the fresh air circulation with all his excitement. He was going on about this Kendrick something-or-other.

I remember him saying something about the West Coast, I rolled my eyes. There was another thing about him rapping about being a Christian, I was intrigued. I wanted to ask if this Kendrick-what-what was hot but onomatopaeia made me weary of voicing such things since I was beyond burning up. Since that day, I learned that his surname is Lamar. I discovered that he has a silly but sweet soft spot for Beyonce (if you know The Ordinary Girl you know why that’s significant). I understood that he appreciated The Girlfriends as much as he did the Tammy's and Keisha's whose paths are different from each other. I also unconsciously began to accept his lines, phrases and quirks as things that would become part of our lives. If I had a Rand for everytime Dude answered a question with “Fuck thut...”

It’s been years since I was harassed by the Sunninghill sun - Norhood is so much better in so many ways - but at least, in that time, I got the answer to the question I was too lazy to ask Dude. Kendrick Lamar is hot. What he looks like doesn’t matter, what he’s managed to do for music and for self esteem is something special. This is Tammy’s Song, off Section.80, which is nominated for Best Mixtape at the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards.

Kendrick Lamar "Tammy's Song" from JeromeD.com on Vimeo.

The Cypher

2011-10-11T09:41:00.003+02:00

The BET Hip Hop Awards will air in South Africa on Top TV this weekend. Yes, Lil Wayne has the most nominations. No, Gucci Mane didn't show up with another face tattoo. Yes, Mike Epps is the host and no, Willow and Jaden won't be doing their rendition of Bus' It Baby at the awards which were taped in Atlanta. Boohoo. All those things are great but what most people only ever look forward to is The Cypher. Treated in black and white, this is where the artists who don't really have major record label backing as well as some rap greats (Common, Black Thought etc) get to spit their 16s to DJ Premiere scratches. Two years ago, Nicki Minaj finally won some folks over - even though they scratched their heads at that cigarette move - when she was featured alongside Joe Budden, Buckshot and Crown Royyal. This year, The Cypher will feature the likes of Gilbere Forte (you know Dude did an air punch to Gilbere's inclusion, right?), Chris Sutton, XV and Jay Rock amongst others. So until we can see more footage, here's something for you to snack on:

2009 BET Hip Hop Awards "The Cypher" Crown Royyal, Nicki Minaj, Buckshot & Joe Budden from Crown Royyal on Vimeo.

Because It's That Kind Of Day

2011-10-10T13:47:00.002+02:00

BEYONCE: Oprah Farewell Show from Chokolate mmm on Vimeo.

Judge me.

Happy Monday

2011-10-10T08:39:00.005+02:00

The Ordinary Girl spent the weekend in Darling. My favourite thing about Rocking The Daisies? This tattoo. It just sums life up. My friend, Neo, took the picture on her Curvaceous so excuse the quality.

UPDATED: This is actually a Banksy piece. Amazing, right?

This Weekend

2011-10-07T08:58:00.003+02:00

So in The Ordinary Girl's part of the world, this weekend is Rocking The Daisies. Sigh. I won't go into the reason behind the sigh. However, if you're up in Joburg tomorrow then check me and Mr Calibre out at Throwdown at OST in Newtown. On the decks will be Da Buddist and Soulo Starr. Doors open at 8pm and R50 gets you in.
This is my favourite fratpack track. Oldie but goodie. Enjoy.

Everything I'm not feat. Sneaker Pimps by fratpack

Viva Riva, Viva!

2011-10-07T08:17:00.005+02:00

We're so excited for you all to go out and see Viva Riva! The Congolese film noir gem directed by Djo Tunda Wa Munga is one of the best movies to come out this year. Period. It's on circuit in South Africa today. Patsha Bay (who's also a well known Congolese singer) plays Riva, a young man who cuts his rogue boss out of a petrol deal in Kinshasa, a place in severe shortage of fuel. Needless to say, things get real when the A Pimp Named Slickback-like boss - and everyone who catches wind of the bountiful hidden petrol - starts looking for Riva. Among other awards, this film scooped an MTV Movie Award in the first Best African Film category. Shiiiiine.

See? Manie Malone (who plays Riva's love interest, Nora) is still phly even when not in character:

Picture found HERE

That's Ms Seales To You

2011-10-06T14:43:00.004+02:00

How can you not love Amanda Seales?

Amanda Seales' Story from amanda diva on Vimeo.

Today

2011-10-06T13:41:00.000+02:00

Prince - Nothing Compares To You (Live At Sziget 9/8/2011) from James Munro on Vimeo.

fratpack at Throw Down

2011-10-04T14:58:00.003+02:00

Look what's happening this weekend! fratpack is one word, all lowercase. But yeah, go check the brothers out at AD85's monthly Throw Down.

We Love Latifah

2011-10-04T14:34:00.003+02:00

Sigh. We could count the ways. Truth is, Dana Owens is just dope. With a career spanning over two decades, we were sad to see her forced to act alongside Common. I mean, he's fine and all but...
Anyway, above all the caps that she wears, our favourite on Queen Latifah is her hip hop hat. Stage presence crazy. Raps bananas (get it?). And Common redeems himself in this video. Enjoy.

Queen Latifah U.N.I.T.Y w/ Common and the Roots NYC Hennessy Artistry Show from 'SUP Magazine on Vimeo.

Drake's Hairline

2011-10-03T14:02:00.003+02:00

Did we say hairline? We meant Headlines. Headlines! From his second album, Take Care (out this month sometime - we can't say a date because, well, you know internet leaks don't give a damn about release dates. But I digress), Headlines is the latest single. What do you guys think? Are you liking it? Headlines, not his hairline. Although...nevermind!

Drake ~ Headlines (Official Video) from OctobersVeryOwn on Vimeo.

Oh and are you guys really telling me that The Ordinary Girl is the only person who sees the resemblance between Drake...

and Connor Martin of Glenn Martin DDS?

Spoek Sees Red

2011-09-29T11:43:00.001+02:00

Spoek Mathambo. Artwork by Daniel Jasper. Download at The Fader.

September 27

2011-09-27T10:40:00.003+02:00

The day has finally arrived. Yes, we know Cole World: The Sideline Story leaked a while ago. If you can, go out and buy the album as well.

J. Cole – Daddy’s Little Girl from RnbXHipHop on Vimeo.

Oh, and happy birthday Lesego!

Uh-Oh

2011-09-23T13:03:00.004+02:00

Shameless

2011-09-21T17:22:00.004+02:00

I'm still mad about this. Hurry up with that second season!

And before know-it-alls get all up in my post, I know the original Shameless is a UK series but this American one is very dear to me. So there.

Cudi Covers Complex

2011-09-21T17:04:00.002+02:00

Now we don't normally do this but I know that Dude has always rooted for Kid Cudi. So we're really stoked that Complex Magazine's Noah Callahan-Bever got to sit down with him (and they shot a dope cover and spread, mind you). You can read the story HERE but this is one of the things that stood out for The soft, I mean, Ordinary Girl:

Complex: Are you back together with your lady?
Kid Cudi: Yeah, we’re solid. I’m just trying to figure out love. I never was really good at it, but when you have someone who loves you so much and can take your good and your bad, and work with you and help you grow—that’s priceless. To have a ride-or-die woman, for somebody that’s in the position I’m in, that’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing.

Everybody But Me

2011-09-21T15:57:00.003+02:00

Ohhhh, let the Jameson sink in found HERE

It's frwednesday and you know what that means. This week, those fratpack boys give us some insight into who they really are. Mr Calibre sets the scene first and me takes it further - even throwing in a Rihanna refrain that we're all familiar with by now. The brothers far outed Lykke Li's Everybody But Me and the joint can be downloaded over HERE.

So Shady

2011-09-20T11:19:00.002+02:00

This week has proven that contrary to what Q-Tip said, it's not just record company people who are shady. Sigh.

We won't go into that right now. Instead, you can check out this old, quick XXL Magazine clip featuring Q-Tip talking about Industry Rules, the book he's writing with dream hampton:

Q-Tip Talks New Book from XXL Video on Vimeo.

theblaggTV talks to SIYA

2011-09-19T19:48:00.002+02:00

We told you about her a while ago ( click here to refresh your memory ), and we told you that we really like her. As if that wasn't enough, Dude bumps into her in the streets of Soho and she proves to be even doper than he could imagine!....After he got over his groupie moment, he asked what was coming up and she said:

Levi Knows Best

2011-09-19T17:28:00.004+02:00

We can't even say much more. Just watch. Then go and do that thing that you know you really want to do but are letting fear keep you from it.

Maestro Knows - Special Edition (It's About Time) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

New Blood

2011-09-19T16:51:00.004+02:00

The Ordinary Girl will be the first to admit: rugby is not my thing. I don't care for the sport not one bit. But, South Africa is a sport-crazy nation and they tell me the Springboks do tend to kick some butt. Add to that the fact that the Rugby World Cup is now on and it's no surprise that all over social networks of late has been talk of rugby. Nike ID joined the conversation.

To celebrate the start of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, these limited edition Hyperfuse Air Max 1s were created. They are inspired by England's kit and look good enough to almost make a sista want to watch some grown men hugging each other aggresively. Almost. Do you like them?

Word is when these babies dropped, a few were sent to the actual squad along with some exclusive Beats By Dre headphones. Looks like Karen Civil knows how to get a brand out there real proper like. Now if only we could get a pair sent our way...

Democratizing Denim

2011-09-14T13:54:00.006+02:00

People are producing amazing things out here. When Gap moved from their San Francisco HQ, they set up shop at Pico Creative Loft which used to be a cigar factory in Los Angeles. How rad does it look?

Anyway, so this is where their 1969 denim line - using the Democratizing Denim tag as their inspiration - came to life. Once they did that, they got the awesome team at Cool Hunting to help them tell the story of Gap's new design studio. So they did:

Gap fall campaign 2011 (Pico loft) from michael paterson on Vimeo.

I Want This

2011-09-13T13:34:00.002+02:00

This is a t-shirt from Va$htie's Violette label

Travelling Dude

2011-09-09T19:22:00.006+02:00

Cute. Found HERE

So Dude's going away for a little while. No silly, not to jail. Or a mental asylumn. Or the dog box. He's off on a much needed break. So being a typical guy, he hadn't thought of the not-so-important matter of getting a luggage set, or at least a plastic bag to put his clothes in. Until almost the last minute. And he hates malls too, so finding a set at the eleventh hour was a headache for him. So I got to thinking. If we had all the money in the world, he'd already have a set that he likes and uses. But say he didn't have one he fancies. Then these are but 3 of the ones I reckon he wouldn't mind.

Bottega Veneta

Gucci

Andy Warhol by Globe Trotter and Hysterical Glamour - something tells me he'd like this luggage set the best.

Eternal Love For Eternia

2011-09-09T19:12:00.002+02:00

THEN

NOW

Kute Kustoms

2011-09-09T18:46:00.004+02:00

Kustoms are someof the most comfortable sneaker manufacturers. the Ordinary Girl actually has a pair of Kramer's that look like the ones up top except mine have a black and white diamond pattern on the low padded back of the ankle. I couldn't find ones that look like mine by the time I had to leave the J-O so you'll have to deal with these ones to give you an idea of how Kustom proves that "simplicity provides a fine line between eloquence and plainness." Only my Brown Sugar loving blaggers and blaggettes will catch that one.

Funny thing is, I wasn't looking for these sneakers but they found me. Awwww. OK, Dude has this place that he frequents. Every Saturday he goes there looking for Vans. They never have the specific pair he wants. But we'd go and check every sixth day of the week anyway. Then one day we went and I saw one Kustom Kramer and instantly knew I had to have the right shoe too. So we got them. And Dude was a little salty but wouldn't admit it.

And er, yeah, Dude's still looking for those Vans. Sigh.

Visions Of Visionaries

2011-09-08T18:41:00.006+02:00

Dude's Twin, Fancy, saw this Visions Of Visionaries video which focused on Erykah Badu. She let theblagg know that we may like it because We and the E connect. What we then found out is that MADE (I think I'm in love with MADE) has done a series of these Visions Of Visionaries videos that are, in a word: necessary. One of the video's we really liked featured Bobbito Garcia. A man who needs no introduction. So we won't give him one. Peep:

VISIONS OF VISIONARIES WITH BOBBITO GARCIA from MADE Blog on Vimeo.

Why You Should Recycle

2011-09-07T11:23:00.003+02:00

Can you believe that these sneakers were made entirely out of material constructed from recycled plastic bottles? Called the newSKY, New Balance's bit to be environmentally friendly also looks rather cute don't you agree?

I don't know how I would feel rocking a pair of plastic shoes. I won't even go near Crocs. But these could change my mind for a spell. I think. Word is, if they actually do get released to the public, the newSKY would be hitting the streets in October. Do you like them blaggers and blaggettes?

Awesome Sam

2011-09-07T10:29:00.005+02:00

We all know that Mark Ronson's sister prefers dating women. But if The Ordinary Girl were in her closet I probably would have a hard time coming out. Not because I wouldn't want to be seen by the world but because I'd get lost in there for hours just trying to figure out what blazer to kill the fashion police with. Real talk, I don't care who says what, Samantha's dress sense is one only a few can pull off. Like, of course, the awe-inspiring epitome of adrogyny herself, Omahyra Mota.

Anyway, back to Sam and her leather ties, satin lapels, biker jackets, loose hoodies and other apparel that makes me sad I'm not in her closet. Sigh. More dopeness below.

And Honestly

2011-09-07T10:18:00.003+02:00

At Twenty Three, I Would Probably Love My Work More Than I Did She

In The Morning

2011-09-05T09:43:00.000+02:00

Blakroc 2

2011-09-05T09:19:00.002+02:00

What do Talib Kweli, Jay Electronica, OC, Wiz Khalifa, Jim Jones, U-God, Sean Price, Curren$y and The Cool Kids have in common?

They are slated to be featured on Blakroc 2 album!!!! Blakroc is the brainchild of Dan Auerbach, Patrick Carney ( known collectively as The Black Keys )and Damon Dash. You may remember the first Blakroc which had a gang of features like Mos Def, Raekwon and RZA just to name a few. The dope thing about Blakroc is that they also document the process of their recordings, so peep the trailer and let us know what you think.

Things We Love

2011-09-02T19:27:00.001+02:00

Crooks & Castles

2011-09-02T18:54:00.003+02:00

There are a lot of brands that Dude admires and he always gets sidetracked before he has a chance to tell you all what's what. But don't fret, The Ordinary Girl is here to at least give you a taste of what's on his mind. For a few years, Dude has been raving about Crooks & Castles and I'd just be like "pass the remote" but to his credit, he was trying to get me onto something dope. Even Jay-Z wears it. Although, that may turn a few people off. Anyway, I can't quite remember where I read this but one of the corner stones of C&C is "behind every castle there's a crook" so that already gives you an idea of owner, Dennis Calvero's thinking. So if you like the shoes above then chances are you'll like the brand as a whole. Check them out:

Crooks & Castles Fall 2011 Preview from Crooks & Castles on Vimeo.

Oh Jean

2011-09-02T18:19:00.002+02:00

Love this joint. Love Jeannie.

Jean Grae & Talib Kweli - Black Girl Pain from SGD-DESIGN on Vimeo.

Reebok: Prequel to a Classic with Swizz Beatz

2011-09-01T12:41:00.004+02:00

Ya'll already know that we got love for Swizzy. Even after he cheated on Mashonda and upgraded to Alicia we was like "Yo...That's Alicia...We can't front on that move...That's Alicia."
Anyhooo. As you all know by now, Swizzy has been messing with Reebok for quite sometime so they shot a video of the partnerships "Coming Out" party...pause.

Here's how it went down.

Bloody Sweaty Mothershutyourmouth Clique

2011-09-01T11:04:00.004+02:00

This girl made The Ordinary Girl's night.

It was a cool Friday in Jozi, Sibot was about to do his thing and The Gaslamp Killer was to follow right after him. Dude and I had made our way out to the lobby/reception area of The Alexander Theatre in Braamfontein because honestly, there's only so much bone-cracking bass I can take before I literally feel like it's about to jump from my thumping heart and right out of my throat. So I had to go outside.

What's that? Who said wimp?

Anyway, so we make our way out of the theatre's basement and then see this trio of tatted up ladies. The girl whose bossom you can see up at the top was the coolest chick with the most insanely infectious laughter and an even doper set of tattoos. Sick, right? So I went hunting for this picture of her and I found it while perusing the Bloody Sweaty Clique blog. They are the Joburg blogging trio for the STR.CRD Blog challenge. So do follow them and comment on their posts too, especially you tattoo lady whose name I can't remember. Click HERE to check them out right now.

Fetish Or Feat?

2011-08-31T17:11:00.009+02:00

A while ago, Dr ZVLV of Shelflife put The Ordinary Girl onto this thing called Shriiimping. Yes, with 3 i's. To cut a long story short, it's graffiti on women's naked/near naked bodies. Now I would consider myself a lot of things, conservative is not one of them. But put simply: I just don't get it. It's actually baffling to me that there are girls who allow men to do this to their bodies. But that may just be me. Some would just call it art while others may say it is littered with messages of misogyny. I'm interested to know what you think.

Oh, and how the designing half of Shelflife and I got to that point is because of their collaboration with Puma (a first in the country) which launched WORLDWIDE on 8/8/11. Even Colette in Paris had the limited Puma x Shelflife stock. After chatting Dr ZVLV up, I wrote a really long (and what I thought was a dope) article on these Metrorail-inspired Puma Suedes which were dubbed the Train Runner as well as the ladies version of the joints, which go under the Laces and Ladies moniker. But the J-O shelved it because it mentioned a brand name more than once. And by now, you've all seen the pictures all over the 'nets so I won't bother.

If you missed the launch party you can still check out what went down HERE.

Now as you can see, the logo of the L&L's is a silhouette of a woman - we dig that. But some of the detailing on the sneakers (which come in mids and lows) and in the ladies range is inspired by Shriiimping. It's not as in your face on the kicks, but as a movement, Shriiimping refuses to be ignored. Are you paying attention yet?

Ladies. Liberty

2011-08-31T16:52:00.001+02:00

The Ordinary Girl doesn't care that this is old. There is no expiry date for the awesome. Feast your eyes:

Nike X Libertys from Jordan Buck on Vimeo.

Reeeeeeemix!

2011-08-31T15:24:00.006+02:00

We're not even going to bother with the fronting. Watch The Throne has some serious enthusiasts. Some will, as is common practice in hip hop, even go as far as dropping their own rhymes on Jaynye's beats. Not too many folks were feeling Slikour and Kwesta's Otis - sometimes we reach a little beyond our abilities, but what do I know - but maybe people will like Redondo (of Driemanskap) and Manqoba (whom we wrote about HERE) take on Jay and Ye's Niggas In Paris.

Niggas in Paris (Remix) - Redondo Ft. Manqoba by PioneerUnit

Then they took those rhymes and wrapped them around a remix by Pure Solid. This one is called Niggas in Kasi. Thoughts?

Niggas in Kasi (Reflex) - Redondo Ft. Manqoba by PioneerUnit

PS: First it was Ma-B and now it's Redondo. We like that the Driemanskap guys are showing us what else they've got through hooking up more tracks out of the crew but without breaking up.

PPS: Good looking out Mikmikko :)

Sneakerness Amsterdam 2011

2011-08-30T16:39:00.003+02:00

I repeat: PLEASE SEND ME TO A SNEAKERNESS EVENT ONE DAY!!! Ahem...Sneakerness Amsterdam 2011 went down this weekend. Here's how it was.

I hope STR.CRD is this dope yo.

Meet DJ Raiko

2011-08-30T14:40:00.004+02:00

You already know that we got love for the Kool Out Live collective, but now thanks to Isaac Chokwe, we recieve an in depth look into Grant Spreadbury....aka DJ Raiko aka Raiko My Man. Have a look and get familiar.

PAID DUES 2011 [DJ RAIKO] from Isaac Chokwe on Vimeo.

I. Want. This.

2011-08-25T19:08:00.005+02:00

The Ordinary Girl is a four-finger-ring-fiend. I just love them. I'm not into the sparkles and shiny stuff. I like 2-finger rings. Three-finger rings. I love them all. And I really appreciate the dope pieces that display creativity. Especially if they are one of a kind items. Like this!

A while back, Woodville Inc (a craft shop that obviously specialises in wooden accessories/items) hooked Jamla's own, Rapsody, up with a ring I adore. It is the title of her mixtape, Return Of The B Girl. If they can fit that onto a couple of knuckles or four then they can make a The Ordinary Girl one. Be afraid to give me a pound if you see me rocking that. [Insert evil laughter here]

Get To Know: King Va$htie

2011-08-25T18:38:00.003+02:00

Yes, King Va$htie. Downtown's Sweetheart. Skateboard P's One Time Ol' Lady? Ok, we'll leave that last one to the gossip sites. But we do know that the director/party promoter/Jordan collaborator/almost-Dude's-Total-Package-Girl (phew!) will be one of the guests at this year's STR.CRD.

In the spirit of giving you an idea of who will be gracing the showcase this year, here is a video that will allow you to gain some insight into Va$htie if you don't already know her. Granted the questions are a bit basic but come to STR.CRD and ask her yourself if you're looking for something deeper. Props to the Cash and Caviar crew and Tone for shooting/editing it (and Vimeo for allowing us the access).

VA$HTIE INTERVIEW from TONE on Vimeo.

Like I said before, I don't know if the Get To Know thing will be a feature on theblagg but do stick around. Oh! We also like this Kendrick Lamar ADHD video that was directed by Va$htie, what do you think?

Rocksmith Presents Kendrick Lamar - A.D.H.D. - Directed by Vashtie from Rocksmith on Vimeo.

Who is Outhere?

2011-08-25T15:34:00.003+02:00

Them fratpack dudes are at it again. This one is called "Outhere", tell us what you think.

Outhere by fratpack

Nike SB Blazer High "Low End Theory"

2011-08-22T09:59:00.004+02:00

Now you know theblagg loves A Tribe Called Quest, The Ordinary Girl loves high tops and Dude loves Nike Blazers. So when Nike SB put all three together, it only makes sense that we would dig right?

Peep the Nike SB Blazer High "Low End Theory" and tell us what you think.

Here are other Tribe inspired kicks from the past.

Air Jordan Retro I High Strap – A Tribe Called Quest

Air Force 1 - A Tribe Called Quest

Kicks And Kisses

2011-08-19T17:34:00.003+02:00

The Ordinary Girl loves these Reebok Freestyle smooches sneakers that were a collaboration between the sneaker brand, Married To The Mob and Parisian store, Colette.

They are two years old but they are still dope. What do you think?

Bringing Back Sweet Memories

2011-08-19T17:08:00.002+02:00

Props Mellow Drop