Emily King: The Seven EP

7.27.2011


She is Grammy-nominated, mingled alongside John Legend and Floetry while having the honor of opening for the beautiful Badu and Illmatic Nas. Born in NY circa 1985, Emily King was given the songbird gene from her parents, who performed in the same venues that King would later leave her mark. In 2007, King earned a Grammy nomination for her debut album "East Side Story," and now at the age of 25, she have released her second album, titled "The Seven EP."


This EP has everything I want: a unique blend of soul & funk, trailing close to strong vocals. King's voice reminds me for Corinne Bailey Rae, with a bit of an edge. One thing is certain, she will not get much radio play, but hey...that is becoming the trait of many talented artists and musicians. Do yourself a large, lifetime of a favor: Download this now.

Rant #3,1900,00

7.26.2011


Before I get into my rant, let me just point out a few things:
#1: I have absolutely zero tolerance these days. Blame it on my last relationship.
#2: I am practicing patience and so far, I've been doing a very good job-- until today.
#3: I try not to curse, but I think certain moments are much better expressed with a few "shits," and "damn's."


I wanted to use the word "hate," but that connotes more negativity than necessary. So, I'll use the word "dislike." After weeks of calling the Financial Aid office and the Records office in order to verify that I have sent the required documentation for my grant to be processed, and that my transcripts were received, I found out that my schedule was dropped. Yes, dropped. Instant panic attack. I immediately started to shake and spew out multiple curse words and pursued called every phone number listed on the school's website. For the next hour, I went through the following: Called. Transferred. Called. Transferred. Called. Voicemail. Called. Voicemail. Called. Called. Transferred.

Then, a breakthrough of more shit: Well I see that we received it on the 19th, and our deadline was on the 15th, so we can't guarantee that it will be processed this week. We are very busy and are trying to get the awards done as quickly as possible. My reply: I WAS TOLD THAT MY SCHEDULE WOULD NOT BE DROPPED BECAUSE I HAD ALREADY COMPLETED MY FILE AND SENT MY TRANSCRIPTS. NO ONE TOLD ME ABOUT A DEADLINE! Him: Yes, unfortunately, I can not give you an exact date as to when you will receive that award letter, so if you register for classes again, your schedule will probably be dropped.


Based on the information above, you can probably understand my frustration. After emailing a friend and writing a tweet about this debacle, I've calmed down a considerable amount, which is an accomplishment in itself. There is nothing more that I can do, except for pray. Negativity doesn't award anything, but positivity's rewards are limitless.

Pain Grillé: French Toast

7.24.2011

What do you get with 3 eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, half & half, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar? A celebration. A french toast celebration, that is. Mix everything (minus the powdered sugar), dip 5 slices of bread into the mixture, brown on top of the stove for 30 seconds, and pop it in the oven at 375 degrees, for 5 to 10 minutes. Top with powdered sugar, strawberries, or mix Ntuella & butter together.

Strange Life. Strange Food.

7.16.2011

Crawfish boil. One of many summer gatherings in the South. Why the face? It was my first crawfish- EVER.

I've been gone so long that I missed myself. What have I done since my last post? Lived life: tumultuous, lovely, enlightening, and incredibly grateful. I broke up with facebook to be with Twitter, and so far, so good. I also decided to continue my studies as a BFA major. Art, it has a hold on my spirit and I can't live without exercising my right to create & free myself. Soon, I'll rekindle the love I have for poetry, but until then...I'll write, paint, create...without fear or self-criticism (unless it is productive).

My quote for the months ahead: Visual positivity, exude beautiful energy. It's easy, just try.

Song of present: Jesse Boykin III- Zoner