It’s been too long. And in all honesty there is no reason why Pronounced Deb-Or-Ah shouldn’t be getting ads out the ying yang. 

In any event, because I am such a talented and beautiful young woman, who has yet to crack the surface of my potential, I have decided to allow you all into my personal journey. 

This is a good time for me. A God time, and I’m excited about where I’ll be at the end.

You should feel honored. You are getting in on the ground level of stock that just gon’ keep going up!

I know it’s been a while! I have neglected my faithful readers and for that, I apologize.

This year has almost been like a world wind. So much has happened and so many opportunities

became available to me. I’ve grown, matured and gotten comfortable in my own skin and so:

WORLD HERE WE COME!!!

This year, Deborah Estelle will be launching some new features, doing more interviews and even doing some podcasting and live audio/video footage. It’s going to be a great year!

Check us out as we are on a roll!!!

SUP Y’ALL,

IT’S ON & POPPIN’. BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR SOME MORE INFO AND TOUR DATES. IF YOU CAN BE THERE AS HHH ARTISTS PRESENT THE GOSPEL TO THE STREETS.

PURCHASE TICKETS @ WWW.PRAYERFORHIPHOP.COM

DEBORAH

 

Back in January, I had the opportunity to interview the VERY talented (and humble) Tony Stone. This man (of God) is takin’ the HHH world by storm.  With his dedication to God, good work ethic & approachable demenor, it’s clear to see why he’s at the top of his game.

Bro Tony what a privilege it is to interview you! I don’t really know you but your work speaks for itself. I’ll make sure I do your beats justice!  What’s going on up there in VA? There’s lots of dope stuff poppin’ off in VA with lots of talent that’s submitted to Christ.  You have a lot of artists who are taking root and expanding, so it’s real exciting to see.

 

DB: So now that you’ve won HHH producer of the year @ www.Rapzilla.com , what are your plans. Are u going to Disney World? LOL It was an honor to be recognized.  I have no new plans of any sort.  I appreciate these awards, but I know that I continually strive for the real reward, and that is to have my work for the kingdom here on earth count in heaven.

  §      So tell us about Mr. Stone. What made you want to do this production thing?  It’s crazy because growing up, I never wanted to be so active in music even though I enjoyed making beats.  I had my ambitions set on things that, in my eyes, were greater and of higher prestige… I excelled in the academic environment and was pursuing the field of computer science and robotics having all kinds of awards including national ones. All this in my teen years! But it was at that time that God slowed me down and really illuminated His grace on me as I began to read the Bible in depth.  I tell everyone, it was as my walk with God began to really cement and be established that my desire to do music also grew.  I had a lot of support by my mother (and still do) in those early stages that also encouraged me to stay in the music lane, doing it for Christ.

§         What things inspire you as a producer?  What inspires me as a producer- on a pure musical side is anything interesting, creative, or seemingly hard to accomplish.  These types of things challenge me to try harder.  Good writing lyricists also inspire me.  On a spiritual side, my desire to see people understand more about God and serve Him better is my inspiration. 

 §         How long have you been producing? Ever produced on a secular level? If so how is that different from the Gospel side? Who are you working with now?  I’ve been making music since I was a kid… Ever since really getting serious about making music I haven’t produced on a secular level.  I value the fact that Christian brothers and sisters doing music have the benefit of praying with one another and seeking God on the direction of songs- something that you can’t do with unsaved coworkers.  Currently I’m working with a lot of artists.  Trip Lee, Viktory, Braille, and Azriel, just to name a few.  Expect to hear lots of stuff on CMR dropping this year that I worked on.

§         So I know that you are apart of The Yuinon movement. How has it been a blessing to you? What stands out the most?  The Yuinon is a great body of believers, and I think one of the main things that stands out to me from the Yuinon is the heavy drive on bringing practical Biblical applications as the solutions for common problems faced by people in this day and age.  They tackle a lot of the practical things like modesty, the street life, virtue, civil issues- and the answer is always pointed back to Christ.  Maji is a dope brother in Christ and also a dope producer. 

§         How do you use your music as a ministry tool? What types of outreach events have you been a part of? Any events we should be on the lookout for? What’s going down in 2007?  One of the greatest advantages that I find is being able to have 1 on 1 contact with young cats where I’m able to give them CD’s that I’ve worked on after talking with them. Sometimes it’s grown men, neighbors, pastors, etc.  From a church perspective, it’s a great internal ministry because it can be used with the building up of the youth.  One event we had an outreach show and were able to really reach out to the students. I also find that interviews like these and others that I’ve done on local radio stations have been helpful ministry tools, as we discuss weighty issues in the Christian world.  The 2007 GMA’s will likely be a stop for me this year, as I was invited to be a panelist in one of the seminars hosted during the week.

§         Maji from The Yuinon has a slogan on his site “It’s about the prophet, not the profit”, what does that mean to you?  It illuminates the focus should be on spiritual things and not natural things.  It’s a dope play on spelling, very simple, yet effectively distinguishes the mindset of the Yuinon from other secular movements.

§         What artists or producers have inspired your style? Lyrically? I grew up listening to Christian rap… Grits, DC Talk , Cross Movement and others. Musically and stylistically, I have producers that I admire strictly for their ability to create great sounding beats, but I try not to call out too many names… I appreciate them stylistically, but because they are not using their gifts for Christ, I don’t want to appear to be endorsing them.

§         Being apart of the HHH movement is exciting. It’s a fresh & new and a way to really reach a youth & young adults immerged in the hip-hop culture. Have you found a lot of opposition from the church? If so how do you handle that?  Some love it, some are curious about it, some are cautious about it, and some flat out hate it.  I tend to get the hardest opposition from people who are outside of any urban culture, people who have an idea about Christ that ties Him down to one ethnicity (i.e. Eurocentric), or church people who I may confront about questionable behavior- they will say something back to the effect of, I have no right to question them when I do hip-hop….  I’ve heard stories of artists ran off of stages when they started performing because they started rapping, mics cut off, thrown out of churches, etc… The church sometimes looks at us like we’re the street, and the street sometimes looks at us like we’re the church gone hip (ha-ha).  But we are becoming more common, we must keep making disciples- not trying to change people’s style of clothing and dialect, but making men and women who are skilled in the Word and loving Jesus, who are able to go out and reach others.  It’s exciting.

§         What advice would you give to an up & coming producer? What about an artist or someone who aspires to have a career in any form of entertainment? The most fundamental thing is keep Christ first.  Let Him be the center of your ambitions and labor in the Word and prayer.  There are 1000 situations that can happen that would be impossible to address, but if you have those things in order, you are in good shape to make sound decisions.  It’s not about big names or “blowing up”, but it’s about serving Christ.

§         How do you handle success? Do you find yourself having to be more prayerful or do you think you are the same as when you first started out?  What’s funny is I’m usually so busy working on stuff that I don’t have time to really absorb the success factor.  A lot of guys might look at me and desire to be where I’m at, or have a lot of preconceived notions of how I might be living because they hear my name dropped.  I shun it because success has a way of making people get focused on carnal things.  Any success that I have is attributed to Christ and not a business strategy, a gimmick, or anything else.  The same God that makes one successful is the source of success for the next person, so I find that most of the time I’m subconsciously trying to show my fellow workers that I’m just like you- I’m no greater, no less.  You must definitely pray more, and God also has a funny way of keeping us humble.  While I may have a few albums under my belt and have experienced some favor with things like music, there are also things that I don’t have, like a vehicle.  There would have been a time when I would be ashamed to say something like that, but I realize that God gives us all according to His will and in His time, and has funny ways of keeping us humble.

 

§         What do you see in your future music wise? Any artist you are dying to work with?  Futuristically, I see a lot of great things as far as the advancement of HHH as a respectable member of the Christian music sphere, a usable tool for the furtherance of the gospel, and prayerfully my involvement in establishing it even more.  There are lots of people to disciple, lots of souls to reach- all within the context of this music.  Aside from hip-hop, I also and interested in other styles of music, so don’t be surprised if I kick out with some Christian folk music ha-ha.  As far as artists I’d love to work with, probably some cats outside the HHH sphere and into the Christian rock scene… (I’ll leave that one open ended).

§         If someone wanted a beat what would they need to do? Be prepared to give me a testimony of your salvation, a goal for your music, and then show me what you’re coming with lyrically and musically.  Prove to me that you’re serious about Christ and also serious about doing music.  (Then they must jump through 2 flaming hoola hoops, but that’s only if they want a banger. Ha-Ha)

§    What importance does leadership and the church play in your career? Any advice? That’s a really great question.  There is openness to the use of Christian hip-hop where I’m at, so it is always good to have the encouraging support of church headship.  I have not had any problems or conflicts with any pastor that I’ve been under as long as I’ve been doing HHH.  I think that it’s important to have some form of accountability, especially for young cats starting off, I’m just fortunate enough to have had my mother who’s been a pillar of strength in my life there close up.  Many don’t have that OR proper church leadership, but they desire to do something for God.  There can often be mistakes made that didn’t need to if they had someone to direct them.

§  Before I go, I gotta ask this one question. Do you preach?  I’ve seen some of your writing and views on theology! I was blown away. I said “that boy der’ be UP in the Word!!! More than a producer right here! LOL ha-ha, well I frequently find myself in positions where I am proclaiming or teaching God’s Word.  This can be in completely random spots like to a neighbor, at the checkout line at a store, to Mormons coming to my front door… I like to be in the Word and learn about my Lord!  It also equips you for the day to day interaction with people.  I will always view myself as a student of the Word of God! 

Well bro, Thanks so much for your time! I  can’t wait to hear your album! God bless you & we’ll have to sit down again. Maybe when you get a Grammy! Hope to meet you in person soon.  Thanks for the opportunity!

 

Here you have it. Exclusive with my brother in Christ Mr. Tony Stone! Y’all can check brother Stone out on www.tonystonebeats.com

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Okay ya’ll,

It’s been a minute & yes I’ve been slack I admit. Things have been kinda busy but it’s no excuse I admit.

BUT … The good news is I have something new for ya’ll!

It is about time for another addition of do you one better. My favorite? The trench which is mostly a spring/fall item but can be layered with sweaters & tights on some winter days will be showcased this go ’round. For part I we’ll do the volumious aka fab versions. Check back tomorrow for part II the the cream of the “cropped”. Both are sure to keep you stylishy. Ready? Here we go… MORE AFTER THE JUMP

 DOLCE & GABBANNA SATIN CACOON COAT (www.saks.com $2,995.00)

RACHEL ROY FRANCESCA REVERSIBLE JACKET ($328.50 @ www.shopbop.com )

COFFEE SHOP UPDATED TRENCH ($67.99 @ www.overstock.com )

CM STYLE FASHION FAUX FUR TRIM BUBBLE COAT (www.ebay.com starting bid $21.50)

So, with the airplane crisis going on how does a girl stay beautiful? With the new restrictions on carry on liquid items such as hair gloss, shampoo, conditioner, lip gloss and perfume.  What is a girl to do?

Sephora has just composed a list of airplane friendly beauty products. They make it fun and easy to stick to the new carry-on guidelines. Here is the link :

http://www.sephora.com/browse/section.jhtml?categoryId=C15320&cm_mmc=email%2bret-_-tips%2b20061008-_-tips-_-flightbeauty&dicid=331030:12936010012:3348636

Now for those who don’t know we are not allowed to carry-on liquid items (3 oz or less) each and all must fit into a quart sized CLEAR PLASTIC bag (7.5 ” x 8 “)

GOSH (Just when u thought it was save to bring on your of radioactive shake-for-explosion pint of smoke flavored gloss. Bummers!)

U  can just do it yourself without paying for the sephora products and find less expensive pieces that will do the same thing. (I love beauty supply and drugstore products) Just make sure u don’t break the 3 oz rule ladies! Just in time for my trip next week. Can’t figure out if I’m going to Dallas or Detroit.

Happy hunting ladies!

 

 So I told y’all for 2007 we were going to be doing some exclusive interviews & ministry posts. Via email on January 12th 2007, I had the honor of interview Bro Zee from www.thezeesite.comand one the newcomers in the forefront of HHH for 2006.

He has some great insight on ministry, the HHH movement, relationships & a life submitted to God. Check it out after the jump…

DB: Zee, thanks for letting me do this interview. I know that you are a busy man with your album and all. Designing sites for Vickie Winans & all that! You go boy!

Yep, I’ve been quite busy!  I just got back from the Holy Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta and it was off the chain!  A spirit of worship was in that place, and souls gave their lives to Jesus Christ!  That’s what it’s all about!  I had the opportunity to minister one of my favorite songs “Why Wait? Don’t Wait!” and it went very well.  God is good!

And yeah, my company Bezworks Design, LLC has been on the grind as well.  2006 was our best year, and we can only wait to see what God has in store for 2007.  I know that it will be our best year ever!  God never moves backwards!

DB: And I hear that you are in my neck of the woods! You a NCnative?

Yep!  I was born and raised in Salisbury , NC .  I now live outside of Winston-Salem , NC.  I’ll actually be right in your backyard on this Friday.  A group I peform with a lot called The Gatekeeperz are having a benefit concert at United for Christ Church in Durham , NC .  Feel free to drop by if you have time.  I’ll be one of the opening acts that night.

DB: How long have you been rapping?

Well, I used to rap a lot before I gave my life to Jesus Christ in 1994.  One of the cats I used to roll with was about to sign with Def Jam Records, but it fell through.  I was never a part of a group or anything like that, but I used to freestyle and write a lot.  When I got saved I was into a lot of traditional gospel – mostly choirs and what not.  There really wasn’t much gospel rap, if any, to listen to at that time.  In 1998 I discovered Cross Movement though, and things took off from there.

DB: Tell us about your album.

Livin’ Proof is my debut album and it’s making a lot of noise for the kingdom of God right now. 

DB: OKay, okay! That’s what’s up!

The purpose of this album is to encourage people to be a light for Jesus Christ by painting a lot of different pictures and scenarios that they can relate to.  We deal with suicide, depression, rape, prostitution, faith, failures, sin, having a good time, making right decisions, false religions, homosexuality, salvation and much, much more.  The album is thick with truth.  I don’t make a lot of scriptural reference – nothing wrong with that by the way, if that’s your steeze, then do your thing – but I try to relay the heart of the scripture.  I’m called to take a different route. 

DB: Who have you been blessed to work with?

I give God the glory for having some of the best production and post-production in the world!  The album was recorded mainly at OnQ Productionz in Winston-Salem , NCand two other songs were recorded at The Yuinon in Michigan.  Tracks were produced by 4SightSounds, Tony Stone, DJ Official of Cross Movement, Mac the Doulos, J Pierre, Maji, and M-tegrity.  The Lord really gave me favor.  And to top it off, the album was mixed and mastered by the same folks who’ve done work for the likes of Kurt Carr, Trinitee 5:7, George Clinton, Yolanda Adams, Lil Flip, Lil J Xavier, Mike Jones and more.

DB: Yeah sounds like favor to me!

A lot of work went into this album to insure that the biggest impact for God would be made, and I’m seeing the results of that right now!  It’s awesome!

DB: I know received a couple of nominations on www.rapzilla.com. (For best new artist & song of the year)

Yep, I praise God for that.  Honestly, I think Trip Lee is going to win! (laughs)  But, again, I thank God for even being chosen and put in the ranks alongside them.  We’re all in it for the same reason, and that is to win souls and make disciples, you know?  So, win or lose, in Christ you’re always a winner!  Just to be nominated is a blessing within itself, and I don’t take that lightly.  A big shoutout to Phil over at Rapzilla.com!

DB: Also I see your site is among the top 100 hip-hop sites.  

Another “Rapzilla production.”  They have this banner program that allows Holy Hip Hop websites to determine their ranking.  I’ve always been in the top 30 with it.  Right now I’m number 25.  So, that’s good.  I anticipate it going up soon.  There are a lot of things about to jump off that will give the site a lot of exposure.

DB: And your song “Moufs of The Souf” was voted in the top 30 on Holy Culture Radio. Seems like 2006 has been a great year.

I have to give honor where honor is due.  A lot of that is because of my boy DJ D-Lite showed me love over there.  He even put in on his latest mixtape,The Heatwave, pick that up y’all! ( www.dasouth.com/djdlite/ )

“Moufs of da Souf” features my friends Sound Doc, Parable, Big R, Tre9, Brinson and Excelsius.  I was actually surprised that the song was in the Top 10, coming in at #8.  Praise God!  That track is responsible for a lot of its acclaim.  That is one of the hottest dirty south tracks I’ve heard in a while.  And would you know that a Pennsylvania cat made it???  www.4SightSounds.com  It was his first-ever dirty south track. 

DB: How you handling your success?

Hmmm… Success?  I do and I don’t try to focus on that.  Let me explain what I mean.  On one hand, you have to handle success by being humble and not letting it be a factor in why you do what you do.  And on the other hand, you can see it as a good thing because the more exposure you get – if you are truly in this for Christ – the more exposure He gets.  See what I mean?  You have to remember that it’s not about you, but about God.  I appreciate the victories and ground being gained for Jesus Christ.  That means the chances of lives being impacted to make a decision for Christ are increased tremendously.  That’s what it’s all about for me.  That’s what I consider to be success.

DB: Where can we see you spittin’ them skills for Christ?  

New dates are being added all of the time.  It’s best to just check out the calendar on my website for upcoming appearances.

DB: I also want to give a shout out to Mrs. Zee. How old is your son now? 

My wife and I will be celebrating three years on the 16^th of this month, and my son just had his first birthday on the 13^th of this month.  Time flies by quick doesn’t it? 

DB: Yeah it does fly! What advice can you give the singles in the church of any age?

I would tell anyone who wants to know the will of God for their life – no matter what it pertains to – marriage, business ventures, employment, ministry, etc – take relationships seriously.  The will of God always involves people, and the people you allow into your life – your circle of influence – make an impact upon the direction your life will go in.  So, making the right decisions about people is key.  First and foremost, make God your number one priority.  Secondly, if wanting to be married someday, don’t handle relationships with the opposite sex casually.  In my song “1+1=2” there is a line that says “frequency builds intimacy.”  That’s true with anything.  So, don’t casually date if you’re not interested in a person.  Don’t fool yourself, you know whether or not you are digging someone.  It’s not hard.  My wife and I only knew each other three months before we felt led to get married.  Up to that point we both were responsible with relationships, understanding that there are certain lines and boundaries that should not be crossed.  So, when God introduced us to one another, we were two mature Christians who were able to determine the will of God – which was us being married.  That’s not possible to tell when you’re dating around a lot; always on the phone with multiple people; becoming emotionally attached in varying degrees with people.  Everyone is not supposed to have a soul tie to you.  We must be careful.  This applies to the young and old.

DB: How does it feel living your dreams? Any advice you have about dreams, timing or setbacks? What would you say to someone who has experienced various setbacks or who is in the “waiting” period? What about when someone is like “I’m 35 years old & still a, b, c ain’t happened yet”?

Wow!  That’s a great question.  I believe setbacks and disappointments are the number one reason why many choose to give up on life.  The bible says to acknowledge God in all of your ways and He will direct your path.  God never fails.  If we experience something we didn’t like, never look at God.  Always look within and do a self-evaluation.  He can’t lie and He never fails.  He can always be trusted.  Why?  Because He loves us and He is our Heavenly Father.  For anyone seeking direction and answers, the bible says that if we desire wisdom, all we have to do is ask for it and He’ll give it.

But to put a twist on this, I believe that many people fall flat on their faces because the “dream” they had was not one God necessarily wanted for them, but they wanted it.  Or, we aren’t patient with God in allowing Him to do things in His timing.  Just like I said above, the will of God involves people.  If your dream only benefits you and doesn’t benefit anyone else, you should re-evaluate it.  God never assigns things to us to have to ourselves.  He wanted us to multiply it, nourish it, and build it up so that others could benefit from it.  That’s called being a blessing.  We are blessed to be a blessing.  And ultimately, if what you’re doing doesn’t in one way or another have a kingdom-minded agenda to it, then it’s fruitless to God. 

Questions to ask yourself are, how will this benefit others?  Will souls be won to Christ?  Am I making money to invest back into the work of God, while at the same time understanding that the workman has the right to eat of the fruit of his own labor?  Lastly, am I a tither?  Tithing isn’t an Old Testament concept, it’s a biblical concept.  Far too many folks get lost by the Old Testament/New Testament ideology.  Yes, a new covenant is in place, but just as sin equaling death is in the OT and is found in the NT. 

DB: How do you use your music as a ministry tool?

Well, I first make sure that I’m not trying to win you through clever speech.  Being able to relate to people on their level and just break things down for them so that they can understand it is my goal.  My grandmother who just turned 86 told me two days ago that she enjoyed my album.  For her to be able to understand it was amazing to me.  

People want to hear your heart.  They want passion!  I know that’s why Jay-Z’s latest album was a flop!  He’s not talking about nothing!  Holy Hip Hop is about to take over and Jesus is about to rule the music industry!  Mark my words.  Hip Hop is the language of the generation I was born and raised in.  So, I’m using it to relay the gospel message.

DB: How did you get involved in the HHH movement?

I got into it from being grieved with a lot of the HHH music I was hearing.  A lot of folks have a good flow, cool rhyme schemes, but they lack passion.  Or, they never speak to a person’s situation.  Yes, they have a sin and God situation, but they want to know that God knows they exist!  Does He even love me?  If He is there, then why is my life this way?!!!  That’s the cry of the majority of the world. 

DB: That’s the cry of majority of the church too!!!

 Don’t get me wrong, I like a tight flow and all of that, but let me hear your heart as well.  Quite a few rappers come to mind who have this combination and that’s why I believe God is exalting them within this genre – Lecrae, Mark J, Da Truth, Mynista…  There are others as well, but we need MORE!

I started working on my album after helping Big R get his album started by putting him in touch with Tony Stone.  Tony was the first producer I contacted when I decided to start my album.  I started working on it in 2005.  The album is seasoned!  Pun intended. (smile).

DB: What’s up for Zee in 2007?

Be on the lookout for a video for “Heaven Ain’t Got No Ghetto” in a few weeks. We start shooting it this week. (January 2007) An awesome videographer and director named John Holland is putting it together. His work is top notch! The song is doing very well in gospel and secular markets.

Also – expansion.  And again, not for me, but for the glory of God. I would love a great distribution deal, but now isn’t the time.  I’ve seen far too many artists strive to get into stores, but when no-one knows your name, no-one knows you exist to even go to the store to pick up your CD.  So, expansion of the Zee ministry is my primary goal for 2007.  Whether you’re in stores or not, ministry should always be your #1 goal.  So, I’m going to carry this message and make it do what it do! 

I have a great management team with me – The Real Church Entertainment – who supports me 100% and they are working on a tour.  Tentatively it’s called the “Three in One” tour.  No, that has nothing to do with the trinity, but there will be genres in one tour.

DB: What importance does leadership and the church play in your career? Any advice?

Everyone needs a church home and someone they can be accountable to – especially when you’ve been called to an avenue of ministry that may have you going a lot of places.  My church – St. Peter’s Church and World Outreach Center – is a cell church, meaning we have small groups that we are all a part of and we are accountable to each other in the group.  Each group has a leader, and I have one of the best cell leaders in the world.  I thank God for him. 

A big shoutout to Pastor, Bishop JC Hash and Lady Joyce, his beautiful wife, and my cell leader James Jenkins!  James’ love for God, sincerity, understanding of the kingdom of God and much more challenge me to be a better Christian.  I need that.  There was a time I didn’t have it and it almost caused me to shipwreck my relationship with God.

If you don’t have a church home – find one!  And find one that believes in sound doctrine, as well as the operation of the gifts of the spirit.  The gifts have not ceased by any means!

DB: What advice do you have for an up & comer? What is required to make it this industry? What should a Christian artist expect and do to be successful?

Give 100% in all that you do.  Don’t let money be factor when it comes to wanting to give God your best.  Never settle for less in anything. 

Be humble.  Trust God.  Don’t trust in witty inventions, schemes and don’t use people to make it ahead.  If you humble yourself, seek God’s face, and love your neighbor, God will exalt you in due time.  And never forget that the exalting is only so that you can bring others up with you.  This applies to any situation.

DB: Well Bro Zee, thanks so much for your time! It was truly a pleasure and I look forward to big things from you in the future. Maybe even a website (designed by Bezworks Design). LOL

It has definitely been a pleasure.  Thank you for the opportunity for sure!

Y’all can check out Zee @  www.TheZeeSite.com  and be sure to pick up a copy of Livin’ Proof!!!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT PROTOTYPE AFTER THE JUMP…

Alrighty y’all,

Can we say a beast? This one here puts it down! She is a song writer, singer and arranger. Lately she’s gotten some buzz for backround vocals on Free Yourself (Fantasia). She also wrote (and performed) Say I which we know from Christina Millan. And Resentment was originally sang and written by her! Victoria, Posh Spice, Beckham and Beyonce also have a cover version of it.  

I’ve gotta showcase her. She has a raregift (think Clarke Sisters, Kim Burrell, Etta James, Sarah Vaughn) A lot try, but sister here got it! A true soul singer to the heart (and anointed) she has a lot of people to reach ahead of her.

I’ll post a couple of audio-videos from youtube. The first when she 11 years old@ the Apollo! Are you kidding? KeKe you got a run for your money sweetie!

11 YEARS OLD @ THE APPOLLO

WHAT’S GOING ON

PROTOTYPE

RESENTMENT

Good Morning all & Happy New Year!

We are blessed to be alive to enjoy it.  Yeah, yeah I’m a little late… But you know what?

I’ve been living! Had a lot to do in the end of last year.

 Be on the lookout for some exlusive interviews this year and some great music posts!

We’ll be doing a LOT more “Get Her Style” posts and just some new good things.

Stay posted…

Vive La Grande!!!

Raquiyba

Hey Y’all,

I just wanna take this time to shout out my God Jesus Christ. I wanna thank Him for all the grace and mercy He’s shown me, for this blog, my singing and fashion design career. It has been a long time coming and now without even trying, just being, things are coming together. That’s God’s grace.

Even in the midst of, and in spite of, my humanity He still loves me. That’s God’s Grace.

To be alive still, breathing, a stable job, perks and my family is God’s grace.

We all need it. It is what our hearts cry for and my prayer for all of us today is that we heed it and not take advantage of it.

Hebrews 12:1-3

1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.

Blessings and merry Christmas,

Raquiyba

I had to update this post. In the last two months since writing this post, just as much as things are looking up, I’ve had some disappointment. I applied for a scholarship that was denied and to be an about.com editor for teen fashion that was also turned down. Both these things are things I really wanted.  An immediate yes for the scholarship means that I could be carefree about the money for my schooling in Paris. The about.com job could have served as backup if the scholarship  was denied.

I know that I have what it takes to susceed so why the turn downs? U know what? I’ve found that the most sucessful people today have a story to tell. They were faced with MANY setbacks and disappointments but they kept at it. They didn’t give up and they just kept trying new doors and avenues. One will open up. Just as I’m writing this two have opened up for me. I’m still going to have to save the money for Paris but I got a client for Deborah Estelle (maybe three), a possible writing gig, a way to advertise my business and two singing opportunities. See? You’ve gotta keep going forward.

I’ve learned a tremendous amount this year, one being opportunity is NOT a rare find. Rather you just need to have your eyes open to see the doors when they open.  CLICK TO READ PART I (FROM OCTOBER 2006)

 I’d have to utterly disagree. As if earth rotated around the hemisphere only once and then stopped! With the passing of each day (new mercie’s I’ve seen).  Each day that you have life is a chance for another opportunity to be presented.

Last nightwhile in my life-skills class, we had an “opportunity” (pun intended) to discuss the topic. I choose to believe that when one door closes another opens. Yesterday is done and gone and today is a fresh start! How wonderful!

In class , the general consensus since we don’t know when(notice I said when) we will be graced with the privilege to do something we dream of, we ought be wise with each one. Also that the more u do with what (opportunity) given you, the more likely and enjoyable the fruit that will come out. (I’d like to believe that this has to do more with finishing a task @ hand then with when you bloom into potential). 

PART 2 (OCTOBER 2006)

Sometimes we miss it. It could be due to internal things like lack of preparation, fear or lack of ability. Sometimes it’s more external such as wrong timing, location or circumstance that puts a delay on when something can be started. No matter what the circumstance we need to remember that if one door closes another will (or at least can) open.

It is my experience that the opportunities stop, when we do. If you give up on God, life or yourself than you’ve forfeited what could, should or would’ve come. Don’t do that to yourself. You are worth more and in time, things really could change.

If I were you (and I am ) I’d strive for excellence and to be wise with each opportunity afforded. This way I’d be more fruitful and wouldn’t have to work as hard to reach the next window. However if life or self knock you down, honestly evaluate and keep it moving!

Believe not the lie that if something passes by you’ll never have a chance again… Maybe not for THAT but who knows what will come along and take the cake? Just don’t forget to get/stay prepared for what you’re dreaming. 

Have you ever noticed how some of the greatest people in life are the one’s who persevere through what would see to most the biggest failure? THE ONLY ONE’S WHO STOP YOU FROM MOVING INTO A NEW OPPORTUNITY IS YOU! DON’T ALLOW YOUR PAST OR PRESENT TO KEEP YOU STUCK!!!

Thank God for EVERY mistake, failure and setback. Ironically this could be an opportunity to: LEARN. BUILD. GROW… Furthermore, all the small (or big stuff) u think you’ve missed could be the VERY thing to propel you into the greatest (well u know) of your life.

I’m reposting this because I’ve gotten so many hits for this one. It’s really a hot song. Give God the praise and check it out.

Okay y’all. A U ready? Coko, Fantasia, Lil’ Mo and Fiath Evans don’ come out with a remake of the Clark Sisters song Endow Me. Can we say kill it? Who? Here is the you tube link of the song. It is not the official video (just a slide show) but you can hear the song.

Whooooooaaaaa!!!!

So, now that the holiday season is almost hear, many people are dancing and leaping into debt. NOT CUTE!!!

I hate to be this candid but I must ask why? Why would we (in the name of G-D, holiday cheer or holiday spirit) wanna go into debt? Why would you wanna be happy for one day, 12 days or 7 only to be crying the next year?

I, for one, just worked very hard to dig myself OUT of debt. Personally, it feels good to have money in the bank “just in case”. Now, this isn’t a plea to get people to believe one thing or another. It isn’t a religious or moral rant about what you should or shouldn’t believe.

 *(Some don’t celebrate ANY holidays. Some celebrate Christmas. Some Hanukkah etc.)*

My point? IF YOU’VE GOTTA SPEND THIS SEASON, BE WISE!!! And remember the season of 70% off starts December 26th. 

Here are some ways to save BIG for the holidays.

1) MAKE A LIST OF WHAT YOU NEED AND WHO YOU NEED TO BUY FOR. Who are the most important people on your list? What are you going to buy for them? Determining this in advance can save you potentially $$ of dollars on unplanned, last minute gifts. Get your list together (including what you are spending on food, deco etc BEFORE shopping) 

2) DETERMINE DOLLAR AMOUNT YOU WILL SPEND ALTOGETHER ON HOLIDAYS. Is it $500? $200? $150? The amount you set is the amount you should spend. You can calculate the amount per person too and stick to the price range.

3)BUY AS MUCH AS YOU CAN BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS. Most over spending and budget breaking is a result of poor planning. If you make it a habit of buying items all year round you will be able to plan it into your budget. It will feel good to avoid lines,

4) BUDGET A LITTLE “EXTRA” MONEY FOR EMERGENCIES OR LAST MINUTE NEEDS. Is there a function at your job you didn’t know about? You have the $ to get something quick. Unexpected child coming with the rest of the fam? This is what your “extra” money should be going towards, NOT wasteful spending or going over budget in gifts.

5) CAN WE SAY POTLUCK?In a lot of families, food is a big part of the holidays. Though it goes against tradition why not try to have everyone focus on one dish. (If it’s not your home bring a cover) Do dinner at one person’s home. It will save preparation and clean-up time and won’t cost you a small fortune.

6) BE CREATIVE. Don’t have a lot of money? Want to be smart and save some? How about making gifts like necklaces, bracelet’s, scarves ect. You can have fun, showcase your work, give gifts and be cost efficient. Don’t you love it? Not crafty? Try cards, baked goods, burnt c.d’s, movie gift cards or a big dinner for friends and relatives at your house.  Let them know you love them without writing a check that your…. well you know.

7) DON’T BE FOOLED BY SALES!!! Now, while shopping I wouldn’t have it any other way…BUT many holiday sales are just gimmicks to get your loot! They make up the merchandise and then offer you the clothing at 15-30% off. So really you are paying full price! Don’t buy what you don’t need. Do your research and make sure the deal is really a deal!

RELAX! RELATE! RELEASE! The holidays are supposed to be happy right? Then why is it a time of year when suicide rates are high, people are meaner and most family fights break out? Could it be we focus on the wrong things, get more competitive (in gift giving) and forget that this is supposed to be a time of holiday cheer? Have fun! If you can’t buy the gift, DON’T STRESS! If you have people in your life that would get livid about a present should they be in your life? Is that what it’s about? I think not.

DB

Just recently I became a fan of lace and have done some research to see which pieces were good picks for holiday dressing.  Lace is a way to add sophistication and a little sizzle to most any special occation. I’ve viewed a tonof lace clothing and posted my fav of the bunch.

Some key things to remember about dressing in lace. 

• Keep accessories simple.
• Don’t go head to toe lace. (Got one lace piece? It’s enough)
• Know lace doesn’t have to be fussy. (Check out some of the pieces below. Ballet flats, tops and pieces with only lace accents.)
• Lace doesn’t have to be black. 
• Have fun!!! 

You know the drill… We’ll showcase both higher and lower price points.

HIGH PRICE POINT www.saks.com

 ABS  Badgley Mischka  BCBG Max Azria  Sue Wong  Tadushi  Moschino Cheap & Chic  Beverly Feldman Chai

MEDIUM PRICE POINT www.anntaylorloft.com

  Elie Tahari   Ann Taylor Loft

 Ann Taylor Loft  Ann Taylor Loft

LOW PRICE POINT www.target.com

Isaac Mizrahi Mossimo Isaac Mizrahi Isaac Mizrahi Behnaz Safpour Behnaz Safpour

While I truly do believe we have a purpose that extends FAR beyond ourselves (and circles),  I also believe that we will NEVER fully reach our potential until we step back and work on us.

Are u satisfied with your life? Do u know why? If not you should take time to get to know why. I journal. Don’t be afraid of what you see. You are who you are and will never progress until facing facts.

Do u like your weight? Health? Relationship with God? If not WORK ON IT!!! Do so as if your life depended on it… because it does. Only life brings life. You can’t get life from anything dead. I started my journey this year. I needed braces, so I got them. I didn’t like my over all appearance, so I’m working on it. And my relationship with God isn’t where I wanted it to be. 

STOP USING OUTSIDE THINGS AS A SCAPEGOAT FOR YOUR INSECURITIES, FEARS AND FAILURES. WHEN YOU KNOW AND LOVE YOU, A BETTER LIFE WILL FOLLOW.  

Take a step back and just love on you. Sometimes our dreams are stagnate because the key element in the equation is isn’t ready to more forward… but without time for one (where you develop and change necessary things)

There are a lot of fun and easy ways to start building wealth… Or @ least to have enough money for the gas fiasco we are facing. Ha! I opened a high intrest account via ING DIRECT. I love it! My current intrest (yeilded) is 5.00%, it’s secure and easy to use. U can get the money directly deposited from your employer paycheck or a checking account from your bank. This way it is automatic. You get used to not having the money “in hand” and thus create a spending plan without it.

COME BACK, COME BACK… WALK INTO THE LIGHT CAROL ANN…

Seriously not to bore you. Financial planning can be fun. No one can dictate to you how much to save, how often or for what. It is entirely up to you but if you don’t want to join the ranks of the increasing young, fab and broke than man up. Do something for you. A couple of great reads are THE YOUNG FABULOUS AND BROKE by Suzie Orman, THE AUTOMATIC MILLIONARE by David Bach, RICH DAD POOR DAD by Robert Kiyosaki and A GIRL AND HER MONEY by Sharon Durling. No I haven’t read all of them (I have read a couple on that list) but I know from friends, some family and other money makers that they all hold valuable advice in their own perspectives. YOU CAN AFFORD TO SAVE For Some strange reason people (especially young people) are tricked into believing they can’t afford to save. Truth is you can’t afford not too. With the trend of higher intrest rates (on everything from credit cards to cars), souring gas prices, medical expenses and lay offs saving should be becoming a priority for most. However with the influence of pop culture, the green-eyed monster and the gottahaveitnow syndrome people are duped into living it up and living pay check to paycheck. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE shopping, eating out, going to theathe and the nines but within reason. See you put that stuff within your spending plan. You treat saving like a paycheck to yourself and with intrest! Your money builds over time but with it being out of sight/mind the time creeps up on you and you’ll be moving toward thousandare statis in no time. Gotta love it. I will be blogging about various financial challenges, posting good financial links and advice and in the near future doing interviews with some financial experts. Check out the Don’t Say Budget and Don’t Break The Bank segments to find practical advice on budgeting, saving and styling on any income.

One of the ways to do it right is to hit the clearance racks up! Depending on your style, price point and what your wardrobe needs this can mean different things. For me it means a really great pair of shoes, coat and accessories. ( U can change a whole look by changing your outerwear, shoes and accessories)

Many stores keep a clearance rack most times of the year and depending on how the excess will have items within that season on sale.  If I were shopping I’d start there. This way you can get the best value first and save the “big” spending for items that you can’t find on sale or for pieces that are worth the extra money.

Over the coming weeks I will be giving some insider shopping advice. Here are some tips for shopping clearance:

1)  Know your spending limit. Sales are great. Debt is not. If you buy everything on sale but still end up with a bill of $1500, it isn’t a bargain is it? If your budget is $300, stick to it.

2) Make a list of what pieces you are looking for and how much you are willing to spend on each piece prior to leaving the house. (If you are waiting for something to catch your eye, @ least have an idea of price range or the type of item you are looking for.)

3) Start with stores that you frequent. It could save time and money. If you start with the stores you are used to shopping, you are more likely to find something that you’ve already been eyeing, fits well and fits well into your wardrobe. 

4)  Stick to items that you can wear with @ least three other pieces or three different places. It’s not  a bargain if you can’t use it. (Even if it was only $10. )

5) Make sure the piece fits well. If there are only minor adjustments to be made (such as a hem or button repair) it may be worth the money. Too big is always better than too tight. (Make sure the alterations will be simple and of low cost.)  

6) Go inexpensive on accessories, belts and hair pieces and trendy pieces.Don’t pay $50 for a bubble skirt.  (I don’t care if it’s Ralph Lauren and retails @ $125) It’s too trendy and most likely won’t be in past next fall. It’d be better to buy a great pair of well fitting black slacks (on sale) for this amount. U can get a bubble @ Target, Walmart or T.J. Max for $10-15 with tax. Also stores like D.E.B, Charlotte Russe, Wet Seal, Ross and Target have an array of accessories and handbags to spice up your look. Buy them on sale and u’ve got a steal!

7) All my other “rules” into one. Take a girlfriend with you (someone who knows you and likes to shop) Go after lunch. (This will give your feet time to swell and you need to be able to fit the clothing after you’ve eaten.) Make sure you have good lighting. Walk outside the dressing rooms and see how you look in another mirror. Take your time. Most times a rush purchase isn’t the best choice.

Which brings me to…

Shop stores with good return policies. Unless you are absolutely sure you’ll love it,  shop where you can return (with a receipt).

Lastly, have fun! Shopping shouldn’t be a chore. Go when you have time so you can really enjoy your shopping experience. And remember ladies… STICK TO YOUR BUDGET!

www.monifc.com

So I must showcase this fabulous woman who is also (like Elena Miro) doing something for the plus-sized market in the fashion industry.  I have been following her line since it’s Debut in Fall 2005. I especially loved the Brown Sugar collection. In an industry where (again) big is NOT viewed as beautiful, it is good to see a woman who not only flaunts it but helps other women flaunt it too.

I respect her both as a designer and fellow black woman of power! I’m sure she had to overcome many obstacles and challenges to get where she is. Yet she’s doing it! Getting recognition from the likes of What Not To Wear, Essence, MiMi, Glamour, Latina, Jolie and WWD, she is well on her way to becoming a household name. 

She and other women in the industry like Tyra Banks, Emme and companies like Lane Byrant and Dove are bringing it and I’m glad to see it! They are paving the way for a niche within the fashion industry that will help those of us who are next keep up the heat! If Beyonce can model a line based on her body type why can’t we? Hmmmm… MY FAVORITE PIECES AFTER THE JUMP

MY FAVORITE, THE MARILYN CONVERTIBLE DRESS CAN BE WORN IN ALL THESE WAYS PLUS MORE!!!

ONE SIZE FITS ALL (SIZE 8-24) 

HERE ARE THE REST OF MY PICK’S

www.rachelroy.com

The wife of music Mogul Damon Dash. Mother. Fashion designer. Did I say fashion designer? I love Rachel’s line. It’s sophisticated, clean and retro. It has sex appeal without being revealing or trashy.  It’s a nice mix of bohemian glam meets ’60′s care free. Her clothes are fuss free, easy to match and can add some serious style to what you already have in your closet. Her Fall/Holiday 2006 collection is very romantic. Gotta love it.

Take a look! You can also find her clothing @ www.shopbop.com . bE oN tHE lOOKOUT fOR mORE rACHEL rOY iN fASHION rEWIEWS aND dO yOU oNE bETTER… A FEW OF RACHEL’S PIECES AFTER THE JUMP…

So, this is my final update about the hoodie. Bee-yonka ain’t paying me no royalties to keep up with this info… Status? SOLD OUT!!! Sorry ladies!!! The good news? You can now purchase these on Ebay for the overprice of $355 (more than TWICE the original $79 price.) Don’t worry, don’t worry… I’m sure that mama Knowles is scrambling to produce more, OR gonna hail this as a “Dereon Exclusive”.

www.newbreedmusic.com

 So, Israel Houghton (with the hat on) is my favorite gospel artist of all time! (Kim Burrell and the Clark Sisters are right behind.)

Blessed with the anointing of God, this young man and his group New Breed, bring to us the message of salvation and peace through Jesus Christ infused with his own experiences, worship and jazzy twing. I really can’t say there is a project I’ve heard that I don’t like.

My boy has done it again, and this time with A Timeless Christmas. For those of you who celebrate it, this would be a great album to own. Jonathan Butler, Lela Hathaway and Israel’s own daughter Mariah lend vocals to this project. A cute surprise included is an interlude with Israel’s son singing his own version of a Christmas song. CHECK OUT SOME VIDEOS FROM ISRAEL AFTER THE JUMP.

REJOICE

NOT FOGOTTEN

So how many of us twentysomething’s are saving or investing? How about the thirtysomethings? Fourtysomethings? The good news is that the earlier you start the better. Also good news it is never too late to start. Before this  year (2006) my financial profile was a little shabby. What I earn is comprable to others in my field, however, I was not very wise with what I was bringing home. In November last year I opened a 401(k) account. I started out by saving 7%. In Febuary I increased the amount to the max (for my company) of 15%. It feels great. I am in my twenties and I now know that I am preparing for my future.

I didn’t actually start saving on my own until March this year. I goofed up a couple times.  I’ll be honest enough to say that I saved money but there was money I spent that could have been put away.   In all there has been about $1600 wasted this year. Perhaps more. But you know what? By the end of this year I will have more than that in savings.

We need to wise up people. NEVER and I repeat NEVER think that just because you are “young” you don’t need to worry about your money. I will reinerate, the sooner the better!

So, I know that I’m not the only fashionista on this blog. I know because… well I just do okay? Anyway, fashion isn’t a bad thing… Broke is! Most of the twenty-fourtysomething women I know LOVE clothes and aim to style, but at what (or should I say who’s) expense?

It’s never stylish to be broke. More specifically to go broke trying to be stylish. For this reason I will do a segment Don’t Break The Bank in which we will talk about looking and feeling great about your style and finances.

i‘VE oRDERED tHE dOLMAN sLEEVE sWEATER fROM wALMART (A.K.A WALLY WORLD) aND i mUST sAY i aDORE iT!  

WHITE SAG DOLMAN SLEEVE SWEATER

*Available in 3 colors*

iT iS vERY wELL mADE aND iT hAS tHE lOOK & fEEL oF cASHMERE. aCTUALLY iT’S sOFTER tHAN sOME oF thE cASHMERE i’VE fELT tHIS sEASON.

*** nOW oN sALE @ http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5291607 fOR $6.00 tHERE iS nO eXCUSE nOT tO lOOK aND fEEL fABULOUS.

I wanted to post this piece of art work. It’s Jill Scott’s, The Thickness. It’s actually a little graphic (and real) and kind of deep. I pray y’all had a happy thanksgiving and enjoy. Mine was great.

Blessings,
DB