2010 has come and gone and as the previous year drew to a close a whole host of people made lists of their favourites/Top 10’s from the year be it in music, TV or film. I personally find it to hard write top 10 lists so I thought I’d take the idea and put a different spin on it. Instead of listing my favourite songs I will highlight a few that caught my attention for one reason or another. 2010 has seen growth and maturity materialise in me and this has allowed me to appreciate things I never before would have done including music. Diversity is the keyword of 2010 in terms of where I’m at with music. The story continues after the cut.

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While sitting here writing this the first song that comes to mind comes from an artist who I never once before paid any attention before the this past year and I’m sure many others would say the same. It seems like Plan B shot out of nowhere and stormed the charts but this wasn’t the case. Although I never paid attention to him before I did know that he had a previous album back in 2006 which consisted of him rapping called Who Needs Actions When You’ve Got Words.

2010 he came back with a new album and a new sound which lead to major success. His song ‘She Said’ became his highest charting single when it reached #3 and it was a good introduction to his new sound but its this next song which has caught my attention the most. I don’t know what it is about ‘Love Goes Down’ but I just love it.

The next two songs come from artists who both released debut albums last year with both being ridiculously highly anticipated. Each of them featured on each others’ albums and I’m sure we will hear more collaborations between the two in the very near future. Nicki Minaj and Drake both have seen great success come their way and it doesn’t seem like they are about to let up going into 2011.

‘Fly’ featuring Rihanna and ‘Shut It Down’ featuring The-Dream are both currently album track as they haven’t been released just yet but I wouldn’t be surprised if both were soon to be given single treatment. In fact I believe Nicki may have confirmed that she is to shoot a video with Rihanna for ‘Fly’. Anywho here they are for you to listen to now.

Fly

Shut It Down

Now for something a bit different. As I’ve said last year became the year of diversity for me and while I have kind of always liked different types of music in the past I would keep it on a low. No longer do I need to do that because I have grown up, if I like a song I’m gonna say that I like it and not care what others think. Scouting For Girls caught my ear this year with their lead single taken from their album Everybody Wants To Be On TV. It’s obvious that I’m not the only one who had a feel for this song as it got to #1 on the UK chart. ‘This Ain’t A Love Song’ is a catchy tune, give it a listen.

Its time now for a song that it one of many that can be placed on my why do I like this song list but like it I do. Cali Swag District came up with a song that has a signature dance to it similar to Soulja Boy’s ‘Crank That’ however I do think that this song is slightly better. Even celebs are on this dance craze both Justin Bieber and Chris Brown have been seen nurmeous times doing the dance, the latter has become quite renowned for doing it as he is pretty damn good. Anyway here it is. Cali Swag District – ‘Teach Me How To Dougie’.

Dance music has had a major wave of mainstream success this past year with most artists now taking upon themselves to make records that are heavily influence by that sound. This had transpired into what we now know as Electro Pop. Think Ke$ha, Lady Gaga and even Usher with his most recent releases ‘OMG’, ‘DJ Got Us Falling In Love’ and ‘More’.

Back in February Kelis released ‘Acapella’ the first single taken from her dance inspired fifth studio album Flesh Tone. The single really set the tone for what we could expect from the album but it wasn’t until she released the second single that I decided to pay attention. ’4th Of July (Fireworks)’ is a fun solid track.

I could ramble on for days and write 4 novels but I think it’s time to end the post here. Overall 2010 was a good year for music and a good year in particular for British based artists think, Tine Tempah, Labrinth, Plan B and Jay Sean.

In 2011 I would like to see some British females hold it down like the guys did in 2010 and with the emergence of Jessie J and Yasmin in the latter stages of last year things look positive. Im not one for saying that Britain has the best music because for many a year it has been complete crap however last year was a very good year.

A few more tracks that I really liked but couldn’t be asked to write about lol (always lazy I know)

Lloyd – Lay It Down

Alicia Keys – Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)

Rick Ross FT Drake & Chrisette Michele

McFly FT Taio Cruz – Shine A Light

Adam Lambert – What Do You Want From Me

This song was actually released in the US at the end of 2009 but didn’t chart until January of 2010.

Willow Smith – Whip My Hair

Ellie Goulding _ Starry Eyed

Katy B FT Ms Dynamite – Lights On

Chrisette Michele – Goodbye Game

Chris Brown FT Tyga & Kevin McCall –Deuces

2010 has gifted us with some really great songs. Thankfully many have come from UK artists. However, I am sure that if I was to ask all of you what you think the 3 most popular songs of the year are, I’d put my money on it that ‘Just The Way You Are‘ a ‘Fuck You’ by Cee-lo Green and ‘Nothin’ On You’ feat B.O.B would make the cut. Well, all songs have my man of the moment Bruno Mars in common—the newcomer who I think has taken 2010 by storm. More on the flipside.

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Admittedly I got annoyed with ‘Just The Way You Are’ and ‘Fuck You’ after hearing it a thousand million times. One song I can’t get enough of though is “Grenade”- another hit that is responsible for turning me into a Bruno Mars fan. What a tune!! The song, even without the video has a visual element to it that conveys love in such a great way. Don’t know about you, but when I listen to the song you imagine someone ‘catching a grenade’ and ‘jumping in front of a train’ to show their love for another. Even if you can’t see it, I am sure everyone can relate to being willing to do anything for someone they care about.

Anyways, don’t wanna turn this into a love therapy session! – guess my point is that the music of Bruno Mars has a genius layered simplicity to it that both guys and women can relate to.

In fact, Bruno Mars says his album “Doo-wops & Hooligans” is inspired by the simplicity of old R&B Doo-wop music. Just in case you didn’t know the “Doo-wops” are for the girls and “Hooligans” are for the guys- again an intended effort to make his music relatable to both sexes. After searching the internet to buy “Doo-wops & Hooligans”, I am a little confused but have come to the conclusion that the album has not been released in the UK even though it was released in the US in October. Strange. Yin seemed to think it may be a legal issue. Well, dammit Bruno hire me as your lawyer, I’ll sort it out!

You can buy the album here for $9.99 or wait for the album to drop in the UK, apparently at the end of January. Pre-orders for the UK release can be made on iTunes. Mars also announced his Twitter yesterday that his 2011 European tour would start in March. Hopefully I get tickets to see this dude live because if the videos below are anything to go by it will be a great concert!

Finally, I’d like to wish everyone reading this a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. Hopefully 2011 brings you all success.

I’ll leave you with this video of Jessie J I just saw. Only Jessie J could make a Christmas song sound this dope.

Ciao for now

photo source: flickr

There was a Lunar Eclipse.  Who saw it?  I did!  Well, at least I think I saw it, but maybe it was my mind playing tricks but it stirred these thoughts from me.  How comes, anyone could see it?  London, America, maybe even China?  More on the flipside.

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Maybe I should save these thoughts for a poem, but really – it just shows how tied together this universe is; and makes me wonder why racism and sexism and all the other ‘isms’ still exist – we are so connected in this world it’s scary.  The same time you’re breathing, someone else is; the same time you’re sleeping, someone else is – even when you poop – well, you get the point.  We’re all under the same sky dudes and dudettes – isn’t that cool?

Anyway, check out the pictures below.

photo source: flickr

photo source: flickr

photo source: flickr

photo source: flickr

A second selection of sneakers have been added to the Gourmet 2010 Holiday Collection. The Dieci L and Sedici L said to be the main pieces from the new additions, they feature smooth and premium quality leather with a light sole making for a comfortable wear. Other models are made with soft, durable and water resistant materials such as calf skin. I also appreciate the colours too, ecpecially the blue ones because it’s more of an off blue rather than the typical shade. View more photos after the cut

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Brooklyn based fashion label Mishka release photos of their 2010 holiday collection and as always it’s quite impressive. I always say this about Mishka but I like the way it’s shot because the models look relaxed and the photography is minimal. The collection looks casual/smart where it comprises of light cardis, parkas and denim look shirts. More photos after the cut including Mishka’s inspiration.

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“This winter will be dark, thick, warm and elegant. Мишка’s Holiday line consists of timeless and durable garments that you’ll pull out of your winter storage for years to come. The sight and feel of them will remind you of the past winter days you spent in them, but that nostalgic pause will be over soon. The moment you don the Death Varsity Zip-Up, or the Jack Flash Peacoat or maybe the Keep Watch Bomber, your thoughts will turn to the possibilities of today and tomorrow. Death is a ways away yet. Мишка is here with you now. Have fun and dress well this winter”.

Drool. Blazers, knits, jackets, suits, scarves, ties + dark and earthy/neutral tones = amazing. This reminds me of the Morris collection DJB posted a few weeks back but we all know Polo Ralph Lauren are the originators of the modern prepster lifestyle. They’ve managed to combine the Ivy League, classic English with downtown and sporty looks. The whole collection looks dope! it’s a shame about the prices/my income, anyone got a few £1000 that I can borrow? Video on the flipside.

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I’d love to do a style guide video like this one. Fucking dope. *scratches chin*

I’ve never really had a pair of Jordans in my life. I know it’s a shocker for fellow sneaker fanatics, I have my reasons.  I’m more of a Nike person but for the first time I might actually buy a pair. The Jordan Brand has unveiled their new 2010 Holiday Lookbook featuring the one and only Wale. More after the cut.

The 2010 Jordan Brand Holiday Lookbook features all 3 pairs of the retro 13, the original white and red make up, and a new make up similar to the original “Playoff” Jordan XIII. The Melo M7 also makes it’s debut appearing various colorways and showcased the “Anodized” Air Jordan 1 as well as winterized versions of the Jordan Six Rings and Spiz’ike. The kicks are set to be released this winter.

Hellz Bellz known for their in your face provocative style is back and is presenting their Spring 2010 Collection called “Oh Bondage“. Oh Bondage is is a collection rife with bondage inspired elements, carefully crafted to embody a mature sense of sexual appeal. The collection was deeply influenced by the X-Ray Spex song “Oh Bondage“.  Hellz Bellz used lots of zipper and strap details to emphasize the collection’s concept. The collection is super bad. View the whole collection after the cut.

I could conjour up some nonsense about how I’m infact not a bitch just merely opinionated with super low bullshit tolerance, however that’s not the case! I am a bitch and super good at it. If you don’t like it, I just don’t care! Now this isn’t anything that your used to, out of the ordinary, slightly unusual but I’m sure you’ll get used to it, infact let’s just refer to it as ‘constructive criticism‘, how bout that.

The Brit Awards! What’s usually refered to as a bias gathering of industry snobs, last night celebrated its 30th year. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by these middle aged, middle classed, music executives, who haven’t the foggiest about todays music scene. However what’s usually a shamble of an award ceremony went suprising smooth, yes there were a few minor hiccups reguarding microphones but overall the show went well!…really?!…No!…Of course not, don’t be silly.

Firstly I’d like to express how utterly gaunt and unattractive Miss Cheryl Cole looked as mimed her way through her so called performance. Ok, so this chick can dance I give her that much, her and her 20 million back up dancers, but must we be tortured by the sound of her voice, as if her speaking isn’t bad enough. The highlight of the Janet Jackson inspired performance was the mix into Steve Angello’s “Show Me Love”, unfortunately it soon reverted back to the shrieks of Cheryl.

Other cringe worthy performances came from the oh so moist JLS, who felt the need to plummet from the sky. Super Tipsy Lily Allen who was feeling upstaged by the infamous Lady Gaga, later changed into a ridiculous orange. wig in a super sad attempt to be noticed. Lilly no one cares!

Speaking of Gaga, the self acclaimed fashionista arrived in a white lace cat suit with matching mask and over the top head wear. Surprised? Not even a little! What we were slightly shocked about were Gaga’s tears of joy after receiving her 3rd award, Its a Brit for goodness sakes not a bloody Grammy…save your tears luv.

Dizzie Rascal‘s performance with Florence and the Machine was amazing! Simples! The mix of genres and chemistry between the two performers proved to be an unexpected treat, speaking to “rascal” himself he later explained the two things he doesn’t do before a show…get head & get high! Hmmm ok?! moving on swiftly!

Obvious show stealers were Jay-Z and slightly hot…ok stupidly hot Alicia Keys, who indeed sung her heart out and tapped away on her little piano keys.

At the very least I was entertained, however not by the talent!

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Meet Super Bitch. She’s a colleague of ours from University and infact I call her hoodlum but honestly she’s quite the opposite. Personally I like to diss people and I can usually get away with it but quite frankly, you can never do that with this chick. She’ll comeback with something far worse that will make you wish that you were still in yo momma’s womb. More from Super Bitch soon!

I love 2010 and apparently so do these guys. Soleil Noir are a Paris-based creative studio of designers, developers, copywriters, motion and sound designers and they all love what they do. This video was created purely to express their love for what they do. I think it’s pretty fly and fresh, video after the cut.

Everything we have always loved in a stop motion video to wish everyone a happy 2010!

Remember: “There is no passion without love…”