Picture Says It All

York Station in the Dumbo section of Brooklyn.

Rather interesting photo, right? I’m going to let it do most of the talking. There’s some symbolism here. I’ll let you be the judge.

Quick update though, I told you my interview would be coming, and I’ve included it below. Quite proud, my first Complex Magazine interview and having my byline appear alongside a large publication. It’s with young producer Scoop Deville, who has two hits out right now, “I Wanna Rock” and “Ha Ha” with Snoop Dogg and Fat Joe. Enjoy.

READ: Chairman of the Boards: Scoop Deville Talks Beats, Rhymes, and Life (Complex Magazine Interview)

Operation Game Plan Switch Up

Switching my game plan up indeed. I wish this would’ve been a picture of my block this past Sunday afternoon, but I never took the photo.

I’ve been a lot more positive lately. Last night was great, going out to see a concert with friends, meeting people, etc. Every time I meet someone who is inspiring and I believe will become a part of my future it’s really exciting. The same thing happened to me last week, and I believe that these occurrences are part of a larger sign. The fact that I’m struggling to find a job is also a sign. Right now, it’s not meant to happen.

I truly believe that. This chain of events I see before me is presented to me for a reason. It’s the same thing that happened to me a couple years ago before college, and the same thing that happened to me a couple months before New York. It means I’m very close to where I need to be, I just need to play the cards that I’m dealt and push harder along.

It’s not even so much I have to push much harder (that’s what causes strain) it’s moving along with what the currents and flow of the universe/Heavens are trying to tell me.

A Basic Be Grateful For Life Type Day (Finally Proud)

So excuse me if this post comes out sloppy. Sike. I never slip, even while tired.

Definitely thankful to be able to say that. The past two weeks I’ve been eating good, mostly healthy, and often. Couldn’t exactly say that for the whole month of January. While waiting for my clothes to wash/dry at the laundromat tonight, I took sometime to write about my experiences since I’ve been here in my moleskine. No Jay Elec. I realized the whole reality I’m now living was only a dream as little as three months ago.

I’ve done a lot by taking the steps to live in my first apartment in NYC and work a wonderful internship. I haven’t taken the time to really be proud of myself for these accomplishments. These are such massive feats considering where I come from; people who grew up around me don’t get to do the things that I do or soar to the heights I’ve climbed. (And as people from my earlier school career friend request me on facebook that becomes more apparent…)

Artwork x Randomocity

“Connectivity”

Random I know. Started creating these messing around with a couple programs. Felt the urge to share this one.

Nothing special, I’m not highlighting it per se, but I like this piece for some reason. Reminds me of the modern art movement I love so much.

The banner/logo you see at the top of the blog was created in similar fashion.

UPDATE: Added two more pieces check those after the jump. Also changed the title of the post, since this has become my own little e-gallery.

Daily Motivation

The oh so amazing John Coltrane

I’m trying really hard, but I really feel like I can be working harder and be further along. That’s where I’m at mentally. Made a resolution today for every day I’m not working at my internship (besides weekends) that I’m applying for 2 part-time jobs. Even though things are hard, there’s no way I won’t find something that way.

The man you see above, worked tirelessly every day to excel at what he did (working for weeks at a time, and taking 2 week breaks to rest). Any and everyone who reaches greatness shows that same type of dedication. Talent only gets you so far, when you work to the point where you’re undeniable, and make smart choices who can stop you? Sounds cold, right? Nah, that’s part of the recipe for success. There’s no specific set of moves that can get you there, and there’s way more elements than I discussed just now. Everyone who desires it must find it for and within themselves.

Since I’ve been in NY, I’ve bumped J. Cole’s version of “Dead Presidents II” a decent amount. (I already made a post dedicated to the original version). Especially the last month and a half. On the train ride on the way to work, and on the way back. Been helping me get in the right mindset and stay focused. I’ve also revisited my Coltrane biography in hopes of learning more about the great and inspiring me.

Excuse the lack of wittiness with this post, got a bit of a headache. Today’s bonus also comes from J. Cole, his newest freestyle to hit the net. Enjoy.

“Overcome a low life-status to blow like Gladys…”

LISTEN: J. Cole- “Dead Presidents II” (Youtube)

BONUS: J. Cole- “Knock On Wood” (via 2dopeboyz)

Passions x Renaissance Man

I want to be able to deliver you what you see above, in way better form and fashion. That’s a part of my passion.

This photo is quite appropriate for tonight since it’ll be snowing. I took this last week when exiting the subway on 147th and St. Nicholas Ave. I waited until people passed and then positioned myself half way up the stairs and took this with my phone.

Photography is something I really want to learn by the end of this year. I’ve had the desire to learn for the past 2 years or so. Hopefully I’ll have the opportunity to take it as a class this coming Fall semester. Photography, dj’ing, and formal lessons/schools of thought on entrepreneurship are all things I want to dabble in, and have envisioned myself doing since before I was in college. I’ve been busy gaining other skills and accomplishing other goals, and I understand these things take time. I have a vision for where things fit within the next couple years.

“Position X” Mix (Presented by GALAX RECORDINGS)

Position X by GalaxRecordings

Been sharing a lot of fairly basic music posts, but this was so amazing I had to share. Brought to you by musician/producer/DJ/extraordinaire MeLo-X and Visionary Dary (who I’m not familiar with, but gets limitless props off this mix). Visionary Dary created it, MeLo-X mixed it. They’re starting a record label called GALAX RECORDINGS which I’m sure will be pushing the envelope with their future releases.

The passions post I mentioned before should be coming tonight. That will be a heavy writing/introspective post, until then jam this like no other! Really wonderful mix. I’m about to bring it back one more time, as I clean.

As a bonus, enjoy MeLo-X’s project that dropped in late ’08, Mustafa’s Renaissance. Definitely a treat if you missed it the first time around. Continue on for that and the info/track list on the mix.

Valentine’s Day x John Coltrane- “Naima” (Live)

Ok, ok last video post for a while I swear. I have another post in draft mode, close to ready to go about why I’m happier pursuing my passions versus love this year. Want to know why it’s not finished? I spent all last night and early afternoon finishing a love letter of sorts. Not exactly, but something sweet and sensitive to send to a special someone. Go figure.

But here’s one of my all time favorite love songs from John Coltrane. I took an entire class on Trane last semester and got really into his music, his spirituality, and what he represents. This is a live version from later in his career when he was more experimental, so it’s a bit different from the recorded version I’m used to, but it’s just as beautiful.

Enjoy. As a bonus I’m linking to a post I worked on for Complex, that is appropriate for today.

BONUS: Complex Presents: The 25 Greatest Hip-Hop Love Songs

How To Make It In America (Episode 1) x Guerilla Marketing Breakdown

I know what you’re thinking, another video post? C’mon son. This one has more depth to it, and with my deprivation of all things cable television this was a nice treat tonight. HBO has “leaked” made the first episode of their new show How To Make It In America on youtube, before it premiers on Singles Awareness Day this Sunday the 14th (Props to Jabari for making me aware of this).

I just finished watching it, and doing a little background research on the show, and what I’m most excited about is the marketing behind it. UPDATE: Apparently my crackpot theory about HBO and their guerilla marketing scheme is false. Shouts to Jelani aka “JDot” for pointing it out. Feel free to ignore the next couple crossed out lines. Not to say the show was bad, but the direction they decided to take with the official website is genius pretty damn innovative. (Granted there is a more formal HBO sponsored site, but what’s mentioned before seems pretty official to me). At the bottom it claims to be a fan site, but for a show that hasn’t premiered yet to have a fan site that directs to howtomakeitinamerica.com and have posts dating back to October 11, 2009, doesn’t sound right to me. Guerilla marketing at it’s finest.

It’s set up like a regular blog format, a coincidence? I think not. They’re trying to appeal to a demographic of counter-culture embracing 20-somethings and what better way to do so then to look like the blogs we’re all used to reading? HBO leaking the first episode onto the internet before the premiere? Smart move. A true artist (in this case – master of their craft) does nothing on accident.

Also the marketing crew behind the show had DJ Green Lantern and cast member KiD CuDi host a mixtape in honor of the show that features a couple notable names. Both that, more background on the show, and the stream link for the first episode are available below.

R.I.P. Jay Dee x Won’t Do (Video)

In honor of the birthday weekend of the late great J. Dilla, I present one of my favorite records from him ever. The Shining was my first formal introduction to Dilla, I remember my friend being a huge fan and we traded albums and I grabbed this and Champion Sound and was hooked. I’m not saying I’m the hugest Dilla fan, because I didn’t really understand his impact until after his death (give me a break I was 16) but I certainly love his music/spirit.

I just love the energy and free-flowing spirit that was found in most of his records. A lot of raw energy and great vibes can be found from Mr. Yancey’s music. I’ve done plenty of studying and sketched some important pieces while under the influence of Dilla instrumentals.

I really should do Jay Dee more justice, but I’m writing this post when I’m short on time and energy. If you enjoy this video I encourage you to find more about Dilla’s music, story, charity work, and untimely death from battling Lupus and other sicknesses. His dedication towards creating timeless art that touched the lives of people is inspiring.

I know I promised mentioned some ill updates, but they remain closed-to-completed drafts. Just know some of the coolest posts are the ones that are in my head and that will never make it to this site. Good and a bad thing. That will change when the larger project drops, but just know my gears of my mind are constantly grinding.

Great things ahead. Enjoy this. R.I.P. Jay Dee.