MESH.

Music.Edge.Style.Heaven

—

Last January MESH. was birthed from the minds of Aisha Johnson, Aaron Randle, & CJ Trahan II.

Last January the world was introduced to music, edge, style, and a bit of heaven.

Last January the MESHlife was created.

Last January it all began.

MESH. is excited to be celebrating our first birthday this month. Though we don’t have a particular date, January 2009 is a special month for the blog. It took the coincidental merge of three driven young individuals (the PNCs) to form the force that is MESH. The blog has quickly grown into a well-known entity in the blogosphere and is continuing to grow past all expectations. With the latest music, fashion, and lifestyle posts, MESH. has garnered the respect of many businesses and fellow lifestyle blogs. 2009 was an unforgettable year for the blog and it survived many struggles. But it’s a new year, and a new day and the MESH. PNCs are ready (along with you) to take the MESHlife to a new plateau of success. We would like to thank all of our supporters, especially those special few who have been down with us from day one (you know who you are).

Feel free to contact us as always @

Contact@theMeshlife.com

Twitter.com/theMESHlife

Also contact the PNCs personally @

Aisha

(Aisha@themeshlife.com)  (http://twitter.com/itsAK47)

Aaron

(Aaron@themeshlife.com)  (http://twitter.com/Boywonder11)

Cj

(Cj@themeshlife.com)  (http://twitter.com/CreoleJDeux)

MESH.

Each new year marks the begining of a new series of life lessons and experiences. Most deem this as the time to change how they’ve once been for the better, and start over anew. However, in most cases, these ambitions die out before we even hit February. In 2010, the MESH. team would like to give a big #weoffthat to New Years Resolutions. Yes, we should still celebrate to bring in the New Year, but each and every day should mark a time for personal growth and learning. Always strive to make the next day better than your last.

Aisha

MESH.

I’ve been doing a little bit of work on this one..

After talking to music enthusiasts, various tweople, and countless others, I’ve come up with what I think is a pretty decent Soul/R&B/Christmas Playlist to get you through this 2009 Holiday Season.

Complete with timeless classics (Nat King Cole), old soul (Donny Hathaway), contemporary R&B hits (Faith Evans), and even old and new school hip-hop (Ludacris, Run DMC), it’s all here, and sure to be a welcomed addition to any holiday setting. So next time you’re chilling with family or friends, riding in the car, or just relaxing alone be sure to pop in the this Christmas Playlist… your ears will thank you.

And remember, when folk ask: you got it from MESH!

Sneak Peak of the Playlist :

This Christmas (Donny Hathaway)

Let It Snow (Boyz II Men)

Joy To The World (Whitney Houston)

Christmas In Hollis (Run DMC)

Silent Night (The Temptations)

Please Come Home for Christmas (Jon Bon Jovi)

Christmas Time Is Here

Download the Christmas Playlist HERE!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS PEOPLE!!

AR!

Full Track Listing After the break..

read more »

We here at MESH. just want to wish everyone a beautiful, blessed, and safe Thanksgiving.

Go on. Go eat and get fat. Be thankful for the food!

MESH.

MESH. now has an official Twitter page! Follow us for updates on our latest posts and events!

MESH. 

What do John Legend, India Arie, Maxwell, Estelle, Aretha Franklin and Musiq Soulchild have in common?

Aside from breathtaking and classically soulful music, they have all shared the same opening act; a talented, enthusiastic, Irish/Nigerian songstress with a beautiful voice whose looking to take the R&B/Soul genre to new, unchartered territories. Her name is Laura Izibor and her sound is uniquely her own. Reminiscent of vintage and piano driven soul, Laura’s debut album Let The Truth Be Told is a classic and was featured on MESH.’s “The Soundtrack of 2009: The Best Thus Far” [here].

Laura Izibor did the honor of opening for Musiq Soulchild at Howard University’s Homecoming R&B Concert this year and gave MESH. the privilege of catching up with her before her performance.

—

Let’s start with the popular question, how did you get started?

Laura: I got started by accident. In grade school, my teacher asked everyone to get up and sing. I had never sung a day in my life. So I got up and sang a line from “There Can Be Miracles” by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. That was the beginning; my teachers and classmates were like “Oh! You can sing!” That’s how I discovered I could sing, so then I started playing around with the piano and began teaching myself.  Songwriting was the next inevitable step and by 14 or 15 I was like I really want to do this. I began entering song competitions, sending demos off, and then I got my break when I was 16.  I showcased and then at 17 I got signed to my record label.

Your album is titled Let The Truth Be Told, so what truths did you want to reveal with this album?

Laura: Just my truth in life, in my own life and love. You know I was able to write the whole album so that it was nobody else’s vision or story. From one person to the next you’re able to put the album on and from beginning to end and say, “Ok, so this is what actually goes on in her life.” You’re able to feel that intimacy.

My personal favorite tracks from the album are “Mmm” and “The Worst is Over,” what are yours? Which are your favorites to perform?

Laura: Mmm, well they’re all like my babies! It’s hard to pick a favorite but I do love “What Would You Do” and I love “Mmm.” Oh! I love “I Don’t Want You Back” as well because to me it’s the irony of life when you’re over someone, they come knocking at the exact point you’re really over them and they want you back and it’s like that song is playing “Nope! I don’t want you back!”

So this is your first Howard University Homecoming, are you excited to be in D.C. and for Homecoming?

Laura: I am! I’m getting more and more excited because everyone else is so excited, you know?

What ways are you looking to broaden your fan base in the U.S?

Laura: I tour a lot. I just got off tour with John Legend, Maxwell, and India Arie. That’s where I’m happiest. I love performing. I get a lot of movies, TV slots and things like that. People can hear you in different ways.

So what sets you apart from the artist you’ve just mentioned and what makes you MESHworthy?

Laura: I think, I play an instrument, I write everything, I’m Black and I’m Irish, (Laughter) I keep saying that, it makes me original!  I don’t think it’s a competition, we are all individuals born with wonderful gifts and what music you make is a reflection of that.

Okay, last question for some fun. Is there any cool slang or saying from Ireland you can teach me really quick?

Laura: Um, you can…. actually no I won’t, that’s kind of bad. If something’s really good you can say rapid!

So, “That was rapid!”?

Laura: Exactly, or you can say deadly!

—

With music as deadly or rapid as hers, we are sure that Laura’s career will continue to blossom as she continues to offer uniquely raw and soulful music. If you are interested in her music, go get her album Let The Truth Be Told, which dropped June 16, you won’t be dissappointed.

-Cj

MESH.

thought you should know:

It’s my birthday.

Cj

Get a glimpse of us doing what we do best…..cooking up excellence in ‘the lab’.

What’s on the agenda?

MESH. PNCs

Expect big things in the coming weeks.

As we have previously stated, LEGIT: A MESH. Affair was a complete success. Here are the highly anticipated pictures of how it all went down. Enjoy!

Photography by Brittney Williams, Jasmine Whiting and Javi Beau. Thanks guys !

Will you be at the next event?

MESH.

The first day of class is over and I’m exhausted. The past week and a half were crazy for the MESH. PNC’s but we’re back and in full force. The party was a huge success, and once the photographers get back to us, we’ll have the pics for your viewing. MESH. has huge plans for the future and we look forward to your continued support.

MESH.

[The Scenario]

The MESH. PNC’s were all innocently enjoying their Sunday evenings:

Aisha-Just getting out of seeing Orphan…mentally preparing herself to drive a truck.

Aaron-Still recuperating from a lavish loft party.

Cj- Getting his ass kicked in a game of Monopoly.

[Then out of nowhere, they discover]

MESH. is a finalist in two categories (Best New Blog, Best Group Blog) for the 2009 Black Weblog Awards!

Excitement? (Hell yeah!)

MESH.| Music. Edge.Style.Heaven. would like to say thank you to all who have continually supported us. We didn’t realize the success we could accomplish and owe in large part to you guys. We ask that you continue to stand by us as we grow into an unstoppable force.  We’re delighted that the MESHlife has become a legitimate lifestyle and encourage everyone to dwell in it and get lifted!

Now, the work isn’t over yet. We need for you to go [HERE] and vote for MESH. in categories 9 & 16 (Those are the only ones you have to worry about as you can only vote for a certain number of categories). Help us achieve this award and spread the word about the awards as well as our blog.

THANK YOU!

MESH.

The event will take place on Thursday, August 20th

At Tabaq Bistro on U St. In Washington, DC at 9pm

(Exact Address Of The Venue Will Be Given Upon RSVP)

RSVP
e-mail: meshcontact@gmail.com

Bish Please. Birds been got this worm.

You’re Late. List [closed].

MESH.

It’s been said on countless Twitter updates, Facebook statuses, and text messages–If you were in DC and not at 20/20 The Vision is Clear presented by IPO Lifestyle Group and MESH. you were dumb! The event was a total success and IPO was largely responsible for everything. The grown and sexy atmosphere at Tabaq Bistro coupled with the amazing music blend courtesy of DJ Big Will made the night a memorable one. The event kicked off with a very relaxed lounge vibe as all the guest were feeling each other out but after a few drinks in the system and Big Will going in on the music, it quickly turned into a live, hype, extremely fun event filled with laughter, dancing, photography, and of course fly dressing. Ashaya Robinson churned out an awesome performance.  Big ups to the Wesley Jackson of IPO who orchestrated the entire event and who was the birthday boy of the evening. And a major ups to my PNC Aaron Randle holding it down as the night’s host. The only let down of the evening was that my beautiful PNC Aisha Johnson couldn’t make it. 

More pics from the party after the jump… read more »

Music. I once said to my MESH. PNC Aisha and roommate Tallas, music is the driving force in our lives. It’s the rhythm to which we channel emotions, the beat to how we handle situations, and the soundtrack to our soul. Deep right? Well, here at MESH. we like to know what our viewers have etched into their musical spirits. We want to know….what four songs are on heavy rotation on your iPod and can’t seem to leave your head? But first, we offer ours.

Aisha:

1. Chameleon- Christian Milian

2. Winner- Drake

3. Regret-LeToya Luckett

4. Want It- Lloyd

Aaron:

1. When You Hear the Baseline – Major Lazer feat. Ms. Thing

2. Crumbling Therapy- Overdoz

3. Winner- Drake

4. Ask Them Hoes- Lil’ Wayne

Cj:

1. Whatever You Want- Consequence ft. Kanye West & John Legend

2. Playing Possum- Maxwell

3. Regret- LeToya Luckett

4. It Would Be- Trey Songz

We are really anxious to see the comments on this one. So again we ask…

What are your top 4 songs of the moment?

Cj

First impressions are lasting ones. So, if your planning on coming to 20/20 The Vision is Clear hosted by MESH. and IPO this Thursday in D.C. you’re going to have  to impress hard. This simply means, be bold and be fly! Our man Wesley Jackson (largely responsible for the event) wants it to be known that the dress code is strict and the theme is bright! So, don’t come looking broke down or lifeless. What does this mean?

—–

Fellas: Athletic wear is a no. I shouldn’t see Jordan’s. I should see very tailored looks. If you must wear sneakers, dress a pair of Chuck Taylor’s or any other similar shoe up. Don’t be afraid to wear a bright colored buttoned-up shirt or shorts. Make a statement and come dressed very fly and dapper. This is the perfect opportunity to market yourself to others so don’t blow it. Remember just because you LOOK nice doesn’t mean it’s appropriate for the affair. Maybe this will help…

Remember be yourself but dressed to impress. It’s not an extra formal event so don’t be afraid to wear casual items, just don’t dress how you would for ANY old event. And before you Kanye lovers chopped my head off. He’s fly in what he has on but it isn’t appropriate for the event.

Ladies: One word, heels. I mean this shouldn’t be hard for you girls, girls know how to dress right? (Wrong! Some of you ladies don’t wear the appropriate clothes to certain affairs). For this one, try to be that girl everyone is forced to stare at. Be strategic with your color choices as well as your accessories. Bright colors, nice dresses, you know…try to find your husband at the event. Basically, compete with that bitch in the room whose trying to take the attention away from you.  Aisha found these examples for you.

I’m sure you ladies will come dressed to impress. Don’t let me down.

Can’t wait to see everyone there fly and ready to make powerful moves.

Cj

We can see clearly that IPO is looking to shape into something serious (see for yourself the post below). Their staff is filled with driven, intelligent, and creative go-getters who look to surround themselves with the similar individuals looking to be a force in this world. So of course they partnered with the driven go-getters here at MESH. for a party to celebrate both IPO and MESH. 

If you’re in D.C. this week, you don’t want to miss this.

20/20 The Vision is Clear is a distinct introduction of both IPO and MESH. to the Howard/D.C. community. We wanted to do this with class. Therefore, we say thank you and welcome in the best way we know possible… by hosting the most exclusive and sexiest event of the summer. Prime location, lush atmosphere, IPO, MESH, and you! What more would you ever need? Featuring live performances by HU’s own Ashaya Robinson, DJ Big Will on the 1’s & 2’s, and a few other surprises throughout the evening; this is one that you don’t want to miss! 

Trust me, I’ve been to the location and it’s ‘real classy.’ If you haven’t been to a party with DJ Big Will spinning, you haven’t lived life. The dress code for the party is ridiculously strict (this IS MESH. and IPO we are speaking of) so come prepared. MESH. will feature a post soon of what and what not to wear. This will truly be an event to remember. Thursday July 16th, 2009. Can’t wait to see you there. It’s really exclusive so try to get in early!

I know what my plans are for Thursday. How about you?

Cj

Happy Independence Day! Be safe, BBQ and firework it up!

MESH.

[My Name is HOV]

You know the deal. Music, Edge, Style…that other thing. We get’s it done. We’ve worked hard for what we have. And no one’s going to take it away from us.

[I check cheddar like a food inspector, My homie Strip told me "dude finish yo breakfast"]

Yea sometimes we got a little ahead of ourselves. Sorry for being EXCLUSIVE AS HELL. (oops.–Sorry BadBoy). What can I say. You come to MESH. because you see that we post music before your favorite music blog does… i mean. sorry. We’re moving too fast. Finish your BREAKFAST CJ!

[Now before i finish let me just say i did not come here to show out, I did not come here to impress you]

We don’t say this to boast. It’s just what we do, who we ARE! Aisha, CJ, Aaron. We grind. Not only for ourselves, but for you, those out there who aspire to the same greatness we do. That’s why you have to know: MESH isn’t going anywhere.

[I hope you dont think users are the only abusers]

Where was MESH. those two days? We were taken down for a minute because of a few [ahem] extenuating circumstances. And due to those we have had to remove all of our music posts… but don’t worry. We will continue to keep providing you with new, exclusive music. The old stuff just had to go…cause you know we weren’t –[I gotta hustler spirit, nigga period.]

[Now back to our regularly scheduled program.]

Enough talking. We was gone for a minute, now we’re back. End of story. Now back to what we do best…

MESH.

[with a cameo from HOV's Public Service Announcement]

This will be brief. As most of you know, MESH. started in January of this year and are already looking to accomplish big things.(Check out our ABOUT section to get into the MESH Mindset). The success of our blog has been a constant one that continues to grow and is only possible through our viewers and supporters. We cherish and appreciate the love we receive via comments, emails, texts, etc. and want everyone to know………Thanks! Now, we got a favor to ask of you. Please VOTE FOR MESH IN THREE CATEGORIES for The 2009 Black Weblog Awards. We are nominated for Best New Blog, Best Group Blog, and Blog To Watch. Winning any of the three categories would be tremendous and we can only do it with your continued support and votes. Get the word out there!!!

Click the picture above to vote.

Thanks for everything! We look forward to continue this movement together with you!

MESH.

Music.Edge. Style. Heaven.

MESHLIFE

THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF SOPHISTICATION, INNOVATION, AND CLASS. THE ULTIMATE SUMMATION OF SWAGGER AND STYLE. DWELL IN ALL THINGS MESH AND GET LIFTED.

-MESH.

Im Excited. Jay Z believes in this kid, so I figure he’s definitely worth a listen [and apparently a full mixtape posting before I even hear it]. With Cudi going hard [but just not impressing me], Charles Hamilton pissing everyone off [hope his psycho ways don't hurt his career] and Drake slowing down just a bit, I needed someone to fill my “New School” void [us hip hop fans can be so fickle and antsy sometimes].

And to that MESH gives you: J. Cole: The Warm Up Mixtape

DOWNLOAD FULL MIXTAPE HERE

[For proof of purchase see "The Lion King" a few posts down...]

Full Track Listing after the jump

AR!

read more »