“See Me Now” should have been a monster of a track. Kanye West & Beyonce on an original track together? But sadly, it failed all my expectations. So naturally I was a little apprehensive to check out the latest leak “Monster” featuring Rick Ross, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and Bon Iver. But, maybe Jay has one on Beyonce, because this track goes in. Set to be featured on Kanye West and Jay-Z’s upcoming collaborative EP “Watch The Throne” that will consist of 5 tracks.

01 Monster feat. Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj & Bon Iver by theMESHlife

(click down arrow to download)

Who had the best verse? (Rick Ross’s two seconds on the track shouldn’t count as a feature)

(I miiiight have to give it to Nicki Minaj–she kind of went in.)

Cj..

]]> http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/monster/feed/ 0 http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/aaliyah-in-no-particular-order/ http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/aaliyah-in-no-particular-order/#comments Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:01:04 +0000 MESH http://themeshlife.com/home/?p=9492

Each year on the anniversary of the untimely death of R&B’s angel, Aaliyah, I sit back and recount all my favorite moments, songs and videos she graced us with. Even though it’s now a year shy of a decade since she was taken, I won’t go into too much detail about how amazing her artistry was (click here for last year’s post) but I thought it would be fitting to introduce a new series of post here on MESH. with her.

Every so often, I will feature “In No Particular Order”–the top five songs (in my opinion) of various artists. I feel there is no one better to start this off with than Aaliyah. Now keep in mind, most artists’ best material isn’t their released singles but yet the hidden or slightly buried gems on their albums. So as the title mentions, in no particular order, here are the top five Aaliyah tracks.

1. “Never Comin’ Back”–One In a Million

This smooth track might not come to mind when you mention Aaliyah’s name. Lifted from her sophomore album, the “live recording” inspired track is one of Aaliyah’s strongest and has an undeniable groove. The horns compliment her silky voice and effortless falsettos.

2. “It’s Whatever”–Aaliyah

Perhaps my favorite Aaliyah song, “It’s Whatever” is a sophisticated track that shows Aaliyah’s maturity, musical growth, and ability to create relative music. A song that proudly states it’s whatever because love is so strong, everything about the track works. The smooth instrumental, sensual melodies and familiar vibe all come together effortlessly on this standout from her last album.

3. “I Care 4 U”–Aaliyah

Much like “It’s Whatever” this track from Aaliyah’s last masterpiece also showcased a mature woman, confident in herself and her feelings of the world and others. “I Care 4 U” is infectious, with a nearly climatic build-up towards the end, it is vocally one of Aaliyah’s strongest efforts.

4. “Are You That Somebody”/ “One in a Million”–Dr. Doolittle Soundtrack/ One In a Million

I know what you’re thinking–hey, he’s cheating with this one. I couldn’t decide between which track ultimately is associated with Aaliyah’s name. You think of both when she is mentioned. “One in a Million” is the song credited for redefining R&B as Aaliyah’s angelic vocals were oddly matched with a gritty Timbaland beat. The magic was reproduced with her mega hit “Are You That Somebody” that solidified Aaliyah as an R&B staple. Plus, who could forget that video?

5. “At Your Best (You Are Loved)–Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number

This remake of the classic Isley Brothers tune was lifted from Aaliyah’s debut album. It’s funny to imagine such a soft–falsetto driven ballad amongst the track listing of much grittier material. “At Your Best” was the stage for Aaliyah’s vocal ability. Much like the original, this track and its remix remain as classics to this day.

Honorable Mentions: “Come Over” “4 Page Letter” “I Refuse” “If Ur Girl Only Knew”

I must admit, as an Aaliyah fan, this was incredibly hard to do. I know a lot of you are probably scratching your head at the list, but read the reasons why and give the tracks a listen. Aaliyah was a unique and raw talent. It’s hard to imagine what the industry would look like if she were still with us. Some debate she would have remain amongst the likes of present day Monica or Brandy, while others saw the maturity in her last album as an indicator that Aaliyah’s potential was sadly never reached. Either way, her beauty and elegance are always adored, cherished, and missed. R.I.P Babygirl.

What are your top five Aaliyah songs?

Cj..

Yeah, his music runs the risk of sounding the same each and everytime, but if the same is amazing–is that a bad thing?

No more words, just watch and witness why Ryan Leslie is a musical genius.

Cj…

It seems like 2010 will mark the year of the rushed album. With Trey Songz rushing along his next album and countless others putting out material only months after their last effort–Gucci Mane joins the ranks. The artwork for his next venture The Appeal: Georgia’s Most Wanted has been released. With the first single “Gucci Time” the album will release on September 28th.

Why is everyone trying to rush greatness?

Cj..

It’s no denying, this is about to be a big year for Kanye West and the entire G.O.O.D. crew. One pit stop on the way to taking over the music industry this year, is the release of the G.O.O.D Ass Mixtape that proudly boasts 30 tracks from the likes of Kanye, Big Sean, Common,  Kid Cudi, Consequence, Mr. Hudson,  Amber Rose and more. It has that end of summer vibe and since it is the end of summer, well damn it–go vibe.

**Download the mixtape by pressing the downward arrow on the player

Enjoy.

Cj..

Here’s the trippy new video for M.I.A.’s single “XXXO” off her latest effort.

Enjoy.

Cj..

]]> http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/xxo-m-i-a-vid/feed/ 0 http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/fashion-finds-8-10-10/ http://themeshlife.com/home/2010/08/fashion-finds-8-10-10/#comments Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:08:48 +0000 MESH http://themeshlife.com/home/?p=9471

Here are some fashion finds I discovered this morning. I’m trying this new Polyvore thing I’ve been put on to for showing a bunch of fashion finds at once, let me know how you guys like it.

R&B singers Trey Songz and Melanie Fiona are the ad campaign models for Rocawear’s Next Collection.

Fun stuff.

Too bad it’s Rocawear huh?

Cj..

Ran across this vintage vid of Nicki from back in the day (2 years ago). Entertaining stuff.

AR!

My man B[dot]Jay has produced some heat for Mac Miller of Rostrum Records. The latest track Good Evening, off of Mac’s upcoming mixtape K.I.D.S. is solid. Miller has a nice flow and I’m banking dudes got a solid future, especially backed by Wiz’ label. But i’m moreso impressed with my man B[dot] . If you remember, I reviewed his mixtape DiamondsDunks&Backpackz a while back and it was apparent he had talent. I almost feel like the faraway watchful eye over kid, becuase I really feel like he’s going somewhere.

Featuring a sample of Drake and Lloyd’s “A Night Off” from So Far Gone, Good Evening is upbeat, infectious, and dope. Give it a listen and download below.

K.I.D.S. by Mac Miller [homie who couldn't take the bong hit in the Kid Frankie video lol] is set to drop August 13th . We’ll be on it.

Enjoy.

B[dot]

AR!