Feels Good 2 B Home

Barack Obama: Inauguration 2009

2009-01-21T01:39:00.005+01:00

Okay I finally step away from the TV long enough to post up that Barack Obama is now the 44th U.S. President as of 12 Noon on Tuesday January 20th. (Yes We Can!)

First Lady Michelle Obama looked divine in a Isabel Toledo dress while Malia and Sasha wore colorful wool coats from Crewcuts by J. Crew. (Did you know that Michelle worn this all-black design from the Cuban-born American designer back in 2008?)

For the Neighborhood Ball which air exclusively on ABC, Michelle selected a one shoulder ivory Jason Wu gown. The First Lady previously wore a black and white sheath dress for the Barbara Walters Special (see left).

Random thought: Anyone else felt that her hair should been up? Love it or hate this look. The Huffington Post wants YOUR feedback! Barack thinks it's a winner and I quote the President himself: "How good looking is my wife?"

56th Annual Inauguration Performances...

Beyonce - "At Last" First Dance (HQ Fan Made)

Aretha Franklin - "My Country 'Tis Of Thee" performance

President Barack Obama's Inaugural Address

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

See more action over at FG2BH Blog 2.0!
Photos: AP. WIREIMAGE. GETTY

Celestina Featured in T-Pain's "Freeze" Music Video

2009-01-09T04:11:00.008+01:00

Celestina who was featured back in 2007 is the lead female dancer in T-Pain's "Freeze" video with Chris Brown. (To keep you up to speed, Celestina's a Nigerian-American inspiring dancer best known for her roles in Prince's "Black Sweat" and Usher's "Yeah" videos.) The dance heavy video ("Freeze") was directed by Syndrome. Celestina brought out her signature Matrix-like dance move (see photo collage below) for the video treatment. She naturally acted as the leader of the pack in the one scenes. Check it out...

I do not co-sign on T-Pain's outfit! (LOL!) I do co-sign on Celestina's drive to succeed in the music entertainment business - a field she told me was not embraced by Naija parents.
What do you think of Celestina's performance - hot or not?

Random thoughts: Go rent/buy/borrow "Tomorrow Must Wait" with Nadia Burai, Omotola Ekehinde, and Nonso Diobi. I'm on part 3 currently and it's some good old drama. Check out this brief clip...

Okay since I was on YouTube I had to post this song by Agatha Moses. Extra bonus points for those who enjoy her music...

I hope 2009 started on the right foot for FG2BH readers...

Here's To A Great 2009!

2008-12-31T23:38:00.005+01:00

To my faithful FG2BH readers, bloggers, and lurkers, here's to a great 2009!

Best dressed females in 2008 - Thandie Newton, Lola Ogunnaike, Iman, and Estelle.

Best dressed male in 2008 - Idris Elba

Best dressed couples in 2008 - Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker, Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons

Best editorials in 2008 - Nnenna's Jil Sander Fashion mag shoot, Alek Wek & Liya Kebede for ARISE, Iman for Italia Vogue, Oluchi & Ugo's Vogue Moment.

Fashion designer of 2008 - Project Runway finalist Korto Momolu

Best TV Moment - 2008 MTV Africa Music Awards

Actress of the Year - Sophie Okonedo (Oscar nominee)

Actor of The Year - Chiwetel Ejifor (two-time Golden Globes nominee + OBE receipent)

Model of The Year - Oluchi Onweagaba-Orlandi

Political figure - President-Elect Barack Obama (January 20th is Inauguration Day!)

Writer of the Year - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Her Latest Short Story)

Male Eye Candy - Ngo Okafor

Athlete of The Year - Osi Umenyiora (NY Giants Defensive End)

Song of the Year - "If She Knew" by Lemar

Comeback of the Year - Seal's "Soul" album

Ones to Watch in 2009: Lady Gold, Dr. Ben Igwe's "Against The Odds, and Chasity Nwagabara. (Read the full blog post over at FG2BH WORDPRESS)
Photos: AP, Getty, Wireimage, Linda Ikeji Blog

Get "Obsessed" with Idris Elba

2008-12-18T21:09:00.003+01:00

A sneak preview of "Obsessed" the new film starring Idris Elba, Beyonce Knowles, and Ali Larter was featured on Entertainment Tonight. Check it out...

UPDATE: Check out the the official trailer.

"Obsessed" opens in theatres on April 24, 2008. Find out more details about the film over at FG2BH Blog. Will you go see this film?

c/o FG2BH

Striking Looks from Kate Henshaw, Samantha Mumba & Liya Kebede

2008-12-17T07:28:00.003+01:00

New mom/Nollywood actress Kat Henshaw-Nattal looked fierce in a red satin Nicole Miller dress at a event in Lagos, Nigeria. (She was hands down the best dressed at the celebration.) Find out which Hollyood star rock the same dress in a different color over over at FG2BH Blog.

Photo credit: Bella Naija

Kate did a GREAT job in "Consequences" (one of my favorite Nollywood film) with Ramsey Noah and here's the trailer for those who hasn't seen the film yet:

Go Rent/Buy this film A.S.A.P!

Samantha Mumba has been under the radar ever since her "Dancing on Ice" gig ended months ago but she resurfaced with a new male friend at a party in Beverly Hills. Find out Samantha's new close friend is here.

Liya Kebede showcase her advantage as a model when she arrived in a navy ruffle 3.1 Phillip Lim dress at the NY screening of "Benjamin Button." Find out which "Lipstick Jungle" actress rock the same look over at FG2BH Blog.

Photos: Bella Naija. Getty. Wireimage

Project Runway's Korto Momolu To Debut Collection

2008-12-12T05:14:00.003+01:00

Project Runway season 5 runner-up/fan favorite Korto Momolu has announced that she will debut her new collection at Jane Doe John Doe Boutique in Los Angeles according to this ACCESS HOLLYWOOD report.

Read the full blog post here

So will you support Korto's new clothing collection...or not? If not, try not to drool over the funky designs Korto created for Season 5 of Project Runway at NY Fashion Week:

All of Korto's Project Runway designs

Season 5 Finale Show

---
My random thought: As The King of Pop (re: Michael Jackson) expressed years ago, Korto's a true Liberian girl.

I couldn't resist posting this song but I had to add this song onto FG2BH regardless of the timing! Okay was I the only African female to have folks asking me what does "Naku Penda Piya-Naku TakaPiya-Mpenziwe" mean?

"Arab Money" Naija Version + Against The Odds Book Launch

2008-12-11T11:31:00.003+01:00

You know this was bound to happen but check out the Naija version to Busta Rhymes' "Arab Money." (Thanks for the tip, Baba!)

If you're curious about what's been going on with Angel Lola Luv, Estelle and Kelly Rowland, visit here.

Feels Good 2 B Home was invited to Dr. Ben Igwe's "Against The Odds" book launch at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Thanks to African Heritage Press for the invite.

Read the full blog post here.

P.S This is my 500th blog post on Feels Good 2 B Home!

News on Barack, Chasity & Estelle

2008-12-02T00:20:00.003+01:00

To my FG2BH readers, I hope you all enjoyed the long Thanksgiving weekend. Can you believe it's already December?! For those in the NYC area, have you check out the window displays on 5th Avenue yet? Beautiful, huh?! Anyhow onto the post...
---

President-Elect Barack Obama and his wife Michelle share the dual covers of Essence magazine. The Obama are featured separately on the January 2009 edition. Anyone else going to D.C. this January?

Read the full blog post here to see The New Yorker Obama satire cover.

Chasity Nwagbara, Nigerian composer and vocalist recorded a track with Busta Rhymes called "World Go Round." Remember her vocals and songwriting contributions on Jennifer Lopez's last album, "Brave"??! Well Chasity simply goes by her first time now. (Thanks for the tip, Uloma!)

That's not Chasity in the photo with Busta but actress Gabrielle Union. It's a screen shot taken from Busta's "I Love My Chick" music video.

Read the full blog post here to find out what other artists Chasity collaborated with.

Estelle (in Sonia Rykiel) performed at Indigo 2 with a new longer hairstyle but do you love her outfit and 'do?

Read the full blog post here to see Estelle's ever-changing hairstyles.

I'll leave you all with this hot South African song called "Tiki Tiki" by Phinda Mtya.

click here if you can't see the video.

c/o FG2BH at Wordpress!

Carmen Ejogo at "Cadillac Records" Premiere + Tidbits

2008-11-29T00:25:00.005+01:00

The L.A. premiere of "Cadillac Records" brought out its all-star ensemble such as Jeffrey Wright, Beyonce Knowles, Columbus Short, Gabrielle Union, and Adrien Brody earlier this week. Grab Carmen Ejogo's look for less at the "Cadillac Records" L.A. Premiere...

Read the full blog post here.

Check out the full length trailer of "Cadillac Records" and a bonus clip below...

"Cadillac Records" trailer

Bonus clip: Beyonce as Etta James - "Church Bells" studio session with Adrien Brody as Leonard Chess.

Jeffrey Wright alongside his "Cadillac Records" castmates talk about filming:

Will you go see this film or not?

Sanaa Lathan (girlfriend of Wale Ogunleye) goes against Topshop designer Kate Moss in a printed Just Cavalli dress but which lady pulled off the look?

Vote for the winning look here!

c/o: FG2BH at Wordpress
[Photos: Models & Getty]

Afro/Naija News Catch-Up

2008-11-28T05:54:00.004+01:00

Without further deplay, here's what I've been up to on my new blog, FG2BH.

The first ever (MAMA) kicked off in Abuja, Nigeria last week!

Read the full blog post here.

THISDAY presents "ARISE" magazine with Liya Kebede, Naomi Campbell & Alek Wek on the cover.

Read the full blog post here.

Alek Wek vs Liya Kebede in Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi: Who got IT better?

Read the full blog post here.

MAMA Africa Laid To Rest in South Africa.

Read the full blog post here.

Thanks Alicia Keys! Click the photo to see why.

Oluchi Onweagba introduces her son Ugo Orlandi to "Vogue" fashion.

Read the full blog post here.

Updates on Oluchi & Barack

2008-11-17T18:42:00.003+01:00

Barack & Michelle Obama's "60 Minutes" Interview - did you catch it?

Read the full blog post here.

Herve Leger Fashion Face-Off: Oluchi, Star or Cassie?

Read the full blog post here.

Seal & Heidi at VS Fashion Show 2008

2008-11-16T23:16:00.002+01:00

Seal and Heidi were very affectionate with one another just like any couple would be when they attended the 2008 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Miami Beach over the weekend.

Read the full blog post here.

Where was our girl Oluchi?

Photo credits: Gossip Girls via Wireimage

Iman at Keep A Child Alive Black Ball 2008

2008-11-14T21:11:00.002+01:00

Somali model Iman and her husband David Bowie attended the 5th Annual Keep a Child Alive foundation's Black Ball gala at New York's Hammerstein Ballroom last night.

Read the full blog post here.

Liya Kebede Out & About + My Bag Crush

2008-11-13T03:08:00.004+01:00

Ethiopian model Liya Kebede at the James Bond "Quantum of Solace" film premiere in New York City.

Read the full blog post here.

+ My Bag Crush: Ferragamo Clutch

Read the full blog post here.

Lola Ogunnaike’s “Glamour” Look in NYC

2008-11-12T04:08:00.001+01:00

CNN Entertainment Correspondent Lola Ogunnaike attended the 2008 Glamour Women of the Year Awards. Pictured besides Lola is fellow CNN News correspondent Soledad O'Brien.

Photo: Splash via CL

Lola has tapped into the funky design tights craze that has heat up urban Hollywood. Nia Long, Gina Torres, Vanessa Simmons and Kelis are all fans of this trend.

Below are four ways to get the look straight from Urban Outfitters and Forever 21.

1. Two Tone Crochet Full foot tight, $14.00.
2.Argyle Crochet Full Foot Tight, $14.00
3. Cable Knit Tights, $7.80.
4. Darcy Pointelle Tights, $8.80

Update your browser: FG2BH is now here!

Spotted: 2Face Idibia & Estelle + Djimon & Kimora

2008-11-10T21:32:00.006+01:00

2Face Idibia and Estelle pose backstage at the 2008 World Music Awards pre-show. Estelle picked up World's Best New Artist Award. 2Face picked up a well-deserved award for World's Best Nigerian Male Artist. He definitely represented Nigeria Sunday night in Monte Carlo. (He's also scheduled to appear at the first ever MTV Africa Music Awards.)

Photos: GETTY/WIREIMAGE

Djimon Hounsou and girlfriend Kimora Lee Simmons attended the 2008 AFI Film Festival premiere of "Defiance" last night in Hollywood. Both had on rings on that special finger. (Hmm...)

Photos: Splash, WIREIMAGE, Getty

The Obamas (President-Elect Barack and wife Michelle) paid a visit to the White House. According to Michelle Obama fashion blog Mrs. O, The First Lady-Elect wore a custom made Maria Pinto red dress with matching kitten heel pumps. Barack also dropped off his two girls Malia and Sasha off to school this morning. (Aww!)

Photos: YBF, The Huffington Post

Photos taken backstage during Election Night 2008 surfaced on Barack Obama's official Flickr page. So for those wondering what Barack and his family were doing the moment he won the election, do check out the fun photo collages I made. (Click on the photos to see more!)

Photos: Obama for America

African fashion magazine Uzuri has been on my radar for quite awhile thanks to my cousin Kelechi. The official site is loaded with photos. If you're a fan of African fashion, then this magazine is a definite must-read.

About Uzuri:

UZURI is a leading global publishing and media company. UZURI magazine is inspired by the beauty of Africa. UZURI media network brings together millions of readers who are always looking for new trends in fashion. The UZURI audience has a unique taste for fashion, beauty, luxury and glamour and a desire to discover new tends. They have made UZURI their home and a place to discover style. The UZURI print magazine and website is a ‘must see’ and ‘must click’ for all fashionistas and especially women of color. [source]

Uzuri is available on the newsstand including stores Pathmark and Barnes & Noble.
Photos: UZURI Mag MySpace

FG2BH Blog has moved - click here!

R.I.P. Miriam Makeba

2008-11-10T09:38:00.004+01:00

Miriam Makeba ("Mama Africa"/"Empress of African Song") passed away from a heart attack after a concert in southern Italy late Sunday. She was only 76 according to Yahoo's OMG Blog. Miriam helped bring African music to a global audience ever since the 1960's.

Just last month I did a blog post on Miriam's breakthrough hit, "Pata Pata." Oh so sad news indeed!

Miriam was also known as anti-apartheid activist and she died after her concert which was against organized crime. Below is a clip of Miriam and Alicia Keys performing at the World AIDS Day back in the day.

"Pata Pata"

Miriam Makeba will be missed - R.I.P!

American Idol Finalist Chikezie's Elle Feature

2008-11-08T22:27:00.002+01:00

American Idol Season 7 finalist Chikezie tapped into his inner fashion self for a "Elle" magazine photo shoot. To see the photo session in full, do pick up a copy of the December 2008 edition of Elle with Carrie Underwood on the cover. (Thanks Neon Limelight!)

Photo credit: Alexei Hay for Elle

My random thoughts:

I discovered a new appreciation for Gucci Babouska handbag collection from its Fall/Winter 2008 collection thanks in part to Heidi Klum and Rihanna.

s-i-g-h!

Afro/Naija News:

DSquared designs Usher's Tour Dates [The Fashion Bomb]

Barack Obama: "We Want A Shelter Dog...a Mutt Like Me! [Us Weekly]

Kelly Rowland to perform at the first ever MTV Africa Music Awards. [Kelly Rowland Web]

Project Runway Designers Sketch Inaugural Ball Outfits for Michelle Obama. [Us]

At least 75 dead in Haiti school collapse. [USA Today]

Nigeria speculators' wild cash ride. [BBC News]

Lauren London and Cassie pose for the latest Sean John Women Ad campaigns. [IceDotCom]

Obama baby naming craze in Kenya. [BBC News Africa]

2008 MTV Europe Music Awards + Fatima's "Modelville" Ep. 3 Recap

2008-11-07T23:03:00.009+01:00

Lemar and Estelle were just some of the UK-based artists that attended the 2008 Europe Music Awards in Liverpool, England last night. Lemar was there in support of his new single, "If She Only Knew" while Estelle hit the stage with Kanye West to perform her hit single, "American Boy."

"American Boy" EMA performance

On her feet are Jimmy Choos - the same stylish pair Melody Thornton and Alicia Keys previously wore. As for Estelle's furtistic dresses, be sure to visit NSC Fashion Network for the scoop!

Hence a new shoe crush is born... sigh!
photos: WIREIMAGE/GETTY

UK-based publication The Guardian posted up ten highlights from the 2008 EMA's and Lemar made the list. Check it out.

4) Lemar tells us that it would have been a great idea for Barack Obama to have declared his victory speech over a backing track of Dizzee's Fix Up, Look Sharp. His suggested lyrics?

"I stay sweet as a nut, sweet like Tropicana,
You better get out that house because I'm Barack Obama,
You're not ready for this Bush,
You better send your best boys, cos you can't stand the push!
More democratic and saving the Yankee dollar
Republicans don't stand a chance, not now, not ever" [GUARDIAN]

The November 24th album release date for his new album, "The Reason" is far too long...or maybe that's just me.

Fatima Siad kept her competitive drive going for the third episode of "Modelville" (Life After Top Model).

In the second clip below, you get to see Fatima's family photos in Somalia. Fatima also added a new blog about her commerical spot for Carol's Daughter which you can read here. Catch up on Episode 2 via this earlier post.

Watch the full episode here.

The third and final episode of "Modelville" airs on November 19th! The winner gets a lucrative contract for cosmetics brand Carol's Daughter. Check out Fatima's confession on why she wants to win the competition via this new video blog.

My random thoughts:
So I took a brief break from my shoe obsessions thanks to this bronze Gucci "Hysteria" clutch spotted on Beth Ostrosky, Cameron Diaz, and Sanaa Lathan.

It's official - I need therapy for my growing shoe/bag addiction!

Anyone else bothered by the title of the new animated film, "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa"??! Okay let me explain why. I say this because Madagascar is off the southeast coast of Africa. The trailer goes into further detail...

Yeah I'm still taking my little brothers out to see this film. Anyhow it's just a film meant to be funny. To be fair the first one had the cast in New York before they landed in Madagascar. No offense taken but that's just my opinion.

Afro/Naija News:

Michelle Obama to pose for Vogue [The Fashion Bomb]

These YSL platforms are taking over Hollywood [Genuine-Imitation]

"SATC" The Movie 2 - Confirmed [In A Word...Fab]

Beyonce/Leona/"Halo" fiasco [Fresh & Fab]

NYC Museum unveils Michelle Obama portrait. [Ebony Intuition]

Order pieces from Phunk Afrique [Bella Naija]

Angel Lola Luv gets her cameo spotlight in Luda's "One More Drink" video. [Pop Culture Fix]

Thandie Newton makes Vogue's Best Dresed list. [Vogue]

Behind The Scenes of Election Night 2008 [Mrs. O]

Seal Remakes Otis Redding Classic + Barack's Elected President

2008-11-04T21:31:00.009+01:00

Seal did a cover of Otis Redding's "I've Been Loving You Too Long." It's the second soulful R&B-infused single off his upcoming seventh album, "Soul." Damn Heidi Klum is one lucky girl huh? Check it out...

click here if you can't see the video.

Here's the 1965 original written & produced by Jerry Butler and Otis...

click here if you can't see the video.

I think Seal did a fantastic job with making the song his own. "Soul" comes out on November 11th.

My ~~Random Thoughts~~ Shoe Crush:

These bow satin slingbacks from Christian Louboutin have been worn by Jordin Sparks and Jada Pinkett Smith. My shoe crush collection has expanded yet again...

sigh!

This song has become my most played track on my iPOD thanks to 27 Dresses.

"Like A Star" - Corinne Bailey Rae

Afro/Naija News:

Get to know Channel 8's Emma Adiei. [CosWeAfricanWomenAreDoin&DoingItwell]

P-Square's Peter Okoye has a name for his newborn son. [Bella Naija]

Be on the lookout for Afrofab's clothing line. [AfroFab]

Seal offers his own political opinion. [Black Celeb Kids]

Preview Beyonce's new album, "I Am...Sasha Fierce". [Fresh & Fab]

Election Foolery: Obama's Aunt. [Quick's Catch Up]

Rihanna's New Gucci "Tattoo Hearts" AD campaign. [Clutch: The Edge]

Sister Souljah's "Midnight: A Gangster Love Story" is out today! [Real Gossip 101]

First Lady-Elect Michelle Obama wears Narciso Rodriguez at Grant Park. [NY Daily News]

I hope you all voted today! Breaking News: Barack Obama made history by becoming the first African-American man elected President of the United States of America! The 47-year-old Illinois Senator gave his victory/first speech as President-elect at Grant Park. Obama will be sworn in as the 44th U.S President on January 20, 2009. (YES WE CAN!)

Photos: Reuters/AP

Got "it" Better - Iman or Lindsay?

2008-11-03T19:22:00.008+01:00

Lindsay Price and Iman were both caught photographed in this emboridered corset dress by Rachel Roy recently but which diva got "IT" better?

Iman attended the 3rd Annual Black Girls Rock event in New York City. Lindsay Price attended the Season 3 premiere party for her NBC show, "Lipstick Jungle" back in September.

As you can see Lindsay wore the white and gold corset top while Iman opted for the black and silver one. Both ladies had their accessories match their overall look. This is another tough one...

Online Surveys & Market Research

Grab Iman and Lindsay's Rachel Roy dress for less...

1. BCBG Max Azria Metallic Jacquard Combination Dress, $298
2. Bustier Tube Dress, $22.80
3. T-Bags colorblock dress, $198.
4. Audrey Dress, $286.
5.Fetish By Eve black dress, $65.99.

Also at the event were Malinda Williams, Vanessa Williams (Remember these two from "Soul Food"?!), Estelle and Erykah Badu (love those YSL boots!)

photos: C&D/WIREIMAGE/YBF

Seal & Heidi's NYC Stroll

2008-10-31T21:24:00.005+01:00

Seal and his wife Heidi Klum were seen in New York City as reported by JEZEBEL. Seal has a new oldies tribute album named "Soul" coming out which you can read up on here and here.

(You gotta love those sky-high Christian Louboutin boots!) UPDATE: Apparently Seal dressed up as Barack Obama for Halloween. Did you notice the matching Obama pins they have on? Pink is The New Blog has additional photos of the twosome.

photo: Splash via Jezebel.

Random Thoughts:

Mary J Blige and Coco (Ice-T's wife) are wearing my latest shoe crush - Christian Louboutin Bloody Mary ankle boots.

-sigh!-

I'm seriously loving this new Eric Benet song called "The Hunger." BET J's Soul Sessions has this song in constant rotation much to my own satisfaction! Check it out...

"Hunger" is the second single off Eric's current album, "Love & Life." Loves it!

I spotted this recent photo of D. Woods over at Fresh & Fab. The former Danity Kane singer has on red and black African-inspired leggings from American Apparrel's Afrika collection. Bloggers have since criticized the new American Apparel's collection for its controversial ad campaign.

Grab the high-waisted leggings for $34.95.

What's Halloween without MJ's hit "Thriller"?! Can you believe those jeans Ola Ray has on in the video came back into fashion as the fall trend - cropped jeans??! Style reinvents itself indeed...

photos: WIREIMAGE/BEYONCEWORLD/GOOGLE IMAGES

Anyhow do enjoy the video flashback...

Read up on the Thriller Era over at this fan-site!

Afro/Naija News:

Africans say 'no deal' to $14 million movie studio. [Yahoo]
MJ says no to Jackson 5/Janet reunion. [Billboard]
Get to know ShoutAfriKa. [MYSPACE]

Carmen Ejogo at "007" London Premiere + Updates on Akon & Boris

2008-10-31T02:44:00.006+01:00

Carmen Ejogo and her husband Jeffrey Wright attended the London premiere of the latest Bond film, "Quantum of Solace" at the Odeon Leiceter Square on Thursday night. Jeffrey also appeared in the 2006 Bond film, "Casino Royale." Check out that Obama pin Jeffrey has on. Celebrity fashion designer Ozwald Boateng was also at the premiere...

"Quantam of Solace" trailer

I'm definitely looking forward to the new Bond film. Do expect to see these two on the red carpet this Fall thanks to Jeffery's role in "Cadillac Records."

photos: AP/GETTY

I just heard Akon's new song with Lil' Wayne and Young Jeezy called "I'm So Paid" on the radio and now there's a video premiere floating on the blogosphere. Akon's upcoming album, "Freedom" will be in stores on December 2nd. Check it out...

Boris Kodjoe and his wife Nicole Ari Parker were seen at the HollyRod event last night in Atlanta. (Thanks Natasha!) The HollyRod Foundation-sponspered event was hosted by actress Holly Robinson Peete in support of the style trends from designer Kevan Hall. The couple took photos with Essence Atkins (remember her from "Smart Guy"?!)

I see him flaunting his wedding ring--aww!
photos: Exclusive Access

Random Thoughts:
My shoe crush goes to these black pointy-toe shoes from Manolo Blahnik as worn by Ashley Olsen and Thandie Newton. Fashion blog/FG2BH friend Favored Fashion Fix is not helping my situation (copyright T.I.) ...lol!

-sigh!-

October just breezed right through, didn't it? What a month it has been!
Do you guys have any Naija/Ghana films that you think I should see? I had my eyes on "A Piece of My Flesh" and "Tomorrow Must Wait."

Afro/Naija News:

Nadia Burai and long-time boyfriend Michael Essien set to wed in December. [Linda Ikeji]
Traditional Nigerian wedding of Seun and Raji. [Gistmaster]
Nas explains why Hip-Hop doesn't come to Africa. [Ariztos]
Alek Wek and Sade serves up a smile and a wink for "ID" magazne. [In A Word...Fab]

Got IT Better - Thandie or Emma?

2008-10-30T09:08:00.007+01:00

This pink silk ruffle Matthew Williamson dress was worn by Thandie Newton and Emma Rigby recently.

Thandie first wore it first at the "Run Fat Boy Run" Los Angeles premiere with black Christian Louboutin heels.

Emma had on the same dress at the 2008 National Television Awards with black Sergio Rossi slingbacks.

Both ladies completed their look with black heels...and they have the same hairstyle going on. This is a tough one but Thandie wins it for me!

Get the look for less...

1. Diane von Furstenberg silk faile wrap dress, $425.
2. Rebecca Taylor V Neck Ruffle dress, $147.50.
3.Adrianna Papell Ruffle Halter dress, $198.

Vote for the winning look....

Online Surveys & Market Research

Djimon & Kimora at STK + News

2008-10-29T05:11:00.009+01:00

Djimon Hounsou and girlfriend Kimora Lee Simmons were spotted outside STK steakhouse in Hollywood last night. If you look closely you'll notice his CK boxers. Oops did I just say that out loud ...LOL!

Photos: FAME via FYB

While reading the October 28th edition of "Metro" newspaper, I stumbled across this one interesting photo. Before I even got to the photo caption, my eyes popped at the man's hairstyle! Now that's a fan/stan!

Yaya Toure, with the word "Obama" shaved into his head, hands out "Obama" t-shirts and pamphlets to residents in the Ivory Coast, Africa. "I know that people from the Ivory Coast don't vote in the U.S., but it's a way for me to explain to them who [Obama] is," Toure said.

source: Metro NY

In my spare time I've been reading Dr. Ben Igwe's latest novel called "Against The Odds." so you already know I had to make this book - FG2BH's Book to Know! Here's the summary straight from publisher African Hertiage Press:

Undaunted by hardship, a determined widow, Uridiya, arranges a wife of her choice for her western-educated only son. Hardly did she know that her son, Jamike, had fallen in love and gone ahead to marry a foreigner against her wish and the expectations of his village and its
people. In a show of love, loyalty and commitment he rejects the arranged wife to the disappointment of his mother and the community. Can his defiance succeed against all odds?

Set in an Igbo village in Eastern Nigeria from the late 1950's to early 1970's and in the United States in the early 1970's, the author adroitly and sympathetically handles the powerlessness of the widow in rural
African societies and the generosity of the human heart in altruistic people who give so that individuals and society may benefit. It addresses with candor and sensitivity the problems of race, human sexuality, cultural disengagement and the role of love in blurring the 'color line.' Against the Odds is an evocative story with spellbound intensity.

I laughed at Jamike wrapping up a long oversized belt around his tiny waist at the age of 12. I smiled at the momentary silence Jamike received when he said he was married already. His poor mother! The story is a great read for all and I highly recommend it to all FG2BH readers!

photo: African Heritage Press

UPDATE: Check out Seal's tribute to Obama called 'A Change Gonna Come.'

Seal has a tribute album named "Soul" coming out on November 11th. Check out the official cover artwork for the album below.

Seal on what to expect on "Soul":

"Someone once said '...the album will sound like the time you had making it'... Never before has it been as true as in the process of recording this record," Seal said. "Although David and I had been acquaintances before, we'd never quite managed to work together. Upon doing so, I was quick to realize that I was in the presence of true greatness. I've worked with a lot of producers before, but never have I come across anyone as naturally gifted and knowledgeable as David. If you are fortunate enough to have that combination, then you find that the album-making process tends to go very swiftly, making this the smoothest and most enjoyable album I have ever made. And if you are exceptionally fortunate, you find yourself also having made a great friend. I cannot thank him enough."

spotted at Star Pulse.

Random Thoughts:
Tuesday was video premiere day for T.I., Rihanna, Mariah Carey and Christina Aguilera.

"Keeps Gettin' Better"

"Live Your Life"

"I Stay In Love"

Which videos did you love or not?

Speaking of music, are you checking for new music from Akon? His upcoming album, "Freedom" drops on December 2nd.

Check out the behind the scenes action taken from Akon's "I'm So Paid" video set...

Nick from World Star Hip-Hop posted up this news clip of the world's oldest woman. The South African lady is -drumrolls please- 134 years old!

A great deal has been made over this photo composite of Iman then and now:

photo: TMZ

I say the woman aged gracefully!

My fashion crush of the moment - Yves Saint Laurent platform tribute pumps! Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, and Ashley Olsen have worn these gray suede pumps in the past.

-sigh!-

Is it a crime to NOT wear a traditional Afro/Naija outfit at a wedding?!

Did you know that Tyler Perry's current girlfriend Gelila Bekele is from Ethiopia? Jamati recently placed her on their top 10 Sexiest African women in 2008 list.

The scans I posted up with Idris Elba, Sophie Okonedo and Oluchi had to be taken down. Sorry for any misunderstandings!

DISCLAIMER: all random thoughts are meant in good humor!

Afro/Naija News Update:

Get ready for L'Uomo Vogue - the African edition. [The Cut]
Michelle O's $337 J. Crew outfit at Leno. [Mrs. Grapevine]
One-of-a-kind Cabbage Patch dolls made for McCain, Palin, Obama, and Biden. [PopEater]
Top 10 Sexiest African Men in 2008. [Jamati]
Angel Lola Luv in Ace Hood's "Ride" video. [World Star Hip-Hop]
Stephanie Okereke's latest film premiere in L.A. [Ladybrille]
New music from Lemar: "Hello Heartbreaker". [SoulBounce]
Wale feat. Duffy: "Warwick Avenue (Mikey Mike Remix)" [OkayPlayer]
Diddy gets his twin girls into the political hoopla. [Urban-Hoopla]

Estelle - "Come Over (Remix)" Video

2008-10-26T20:13:00.008+01:00

One of FG2BH's faves Estelle collaborated with Sean Paul on the remix of her current single, "Come Over" from her album, "Shine." The chemistry between them made the Lil' X-directed video worthwhile. There's even a cameo from her good friend Kardinal Offishal who appear in her "Pretty Please" video. So far the two-time MOBO Awards winner Estelle release the singles "Pretty Please", "American Boy", "Wait A Minute (Just A Touch)", "No Substitute Love" off her current record.

click here if you can't see the video.

Check out the following behind-the-scenes clip taken from the "Come Over (Remix)" set below.

click here if you can't see the video.

If you're keeping with Estelle, the Supa Dups-produced track "Come Over" is her fifth UK single and "Come Over" is her second American song. Next up for Estelle is a national tour with Gym Class Heroes and The Roots from October 3rd and November 1st, according to Pitch Fork Media.

Estelle has her huge hit "American Boy" with Kanye West to thank for her two recent MOBO Awards. FG2BH's fave Brit import (with her Homeschool Records boss John Legend) walked the red carpet in a strapless Giles dress.

photos: GETTY/WIREIMAGE/JONN-LEGEND.NET

FATIMA SIAD'S ESSENCE MAG SHOOT

2008-10-12T16:35:00.005+01:00

Fatima Siad of "America's Next Top Model" Cycle 10 fame has a well-placed photo shoot inside the November 2008 pages of "Essence" magazine. So I wanted to share the scans with my fellow FG2BH readers...

Fierce! Now all she needs to grab is a major national AD campaign or a major fashion magazine cover because in the model world exposure is exposure.
photos: Andrew Gee for Essence

Tyra Banks decided to launch a new spin-off reality series called, "Modelville" which featured five former "ANTM" contestants (Bianca Golden, Renee Alway, Lauren Utter, Fatima, and Dominique Reighard). The show aired on The CW on October 8th. The winning prize is a $50,00 one-year contract as beauty empire Carol's Daughter spokesmodel.

Check out a sneak preview via Top Model Gossip:

I'll definitely tune in this week to catch up on the hoopla!

My random thoughts:
So this latest style trend Geek black shades are all rage thanks to Charley Uchea from "Big Brother", Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams. But do YOU love it?

photo source: wireimage. myspace.com/myspeccs

Watching D'Angelo pour out his heart and soul on this track....

...makes me forget about this and this. Anyone else hoping for him to come back with a even bettter sound???

Beyonce's "If I Were A Boy" video caused a blog frenzy over the weekend. She stripped down her over-the-top persona and went with the flow. So do you like it or not?

In her own words via Billboard: "It's kind of like 'Freaky Friday'," Beyonce tells Billboard of the concept behind the "If I Were a Boy" clip, where she plays a police officer. "In the beginning of the video, my husband makes me breakfast and he's excited about it, and I kind of don't have time to eat. As a police officer, I have a male partner and the video goes through our days. My husband's at work and has attractive girls flirting with him but he declines their advances. I have a guy flirting with me, and I flirt back."

disclaimer: all fun and random thoughts are meant in good humor!

Speaking of Charley, she has a favorite thing just like Oluchi, Akon, and Seal. Charley simply cannot get enough of her black and brown leather satchel. Can you tell?

So do you have a favorite thing you can't be without?

photo credit: WENN

Afro/Naija News:

Boris Kodjoe is hosting a party in Nashville. [ Fab Glance Nashville]
Nigerian Artists received the most nominations for the 1st ever Africa MTV Music Awards. [Singers Room]
Nigeria's Independence Day Celebration in Atlanta. [Bombchell]
Obama Fashion: Hot on the Paris Runways. [Hip Candy]
Designer Junya Watanbe gets inspired by African designs. [Ariztos]
Chet Anekwe is the new contestant for ESPN Dream Job. [Four2One]
How to remove hair envy at the workplace. [Hair Azara]
MTV Africa Nominees 2008 [Jamati]

FEYISAYO - COSMO'S RHODE ISLAND 2008

2008-10-09T14:56:00.006+01:00

"Cosmopolitan" magazine recently revealed its 2008 Bachelors for their November issue. On the list is 25-year-old Feyisayo Oshinkanlu from Rhode Island. For those wondering, Feyisayo translates into "Use this as wealth" from the Yoruba dialect. [source]

Rhode Island Bachelor 2008
Name: Feyisayo Oshinkanlu
Age: 25
Hometown: West Warwick
Cosmo Username: RHODEISLAND08
Occupation: Pharmaceutical-Sales Representative
In his own words: "I want the people in my life to be happy."
Chick trait he craves: "Being able to hold a conversation about anything — from the Muppets to Tchaikovsky."
Ideal first date: "I don't care, as long as it ends with a kiss."
Make-him-melt move: "Touch my back. I love that!"
Dating deal breaker: "If she puts herself down or disrespects others"
Sex on a first date? "Skanky"
Should women play hard to get? "Yes, but don't spend the whole relationship playing games."
Makeup or natural? "Natural. Women look their most beautiful when they haven't put on any makeup yet." [COSMOPOLITAN.COM]

So I thought I'll share the scans with my fellow FG2BH readers...

photo credit: Beth Studenberg for Cosmopolitan

LOOK OUT FOR LEMAR THIS NOVEMBER

2008-10-06T05:07:00.005+01:00

So I was just on Lemar's official site, when I caught his new album release date for "The Reason." Finally some good R&B music! Right underneath the album cover for "The Reason" are two additional promo photos taken from Lemar's official myspace page.

Lemar announces new album!

photo: PLAY.COM

Tracklisting for "The Reason" via DJ G Child's blog:

1 - The Reason
2 - Weight Of The World
3 - Heartbreaker
4 - If She Knew
5 - Trust Me
6 - Over You
7 - Mayday
8 - Wait Forever
9 - Not What You Say
10 - Black Tide

Lemar picked SoulShock and Karlin-produced single "If She Knew" as the lead track off his upcoming fourth solo effort. Take a listen...

Listen to the song here if you can't see the embedded video.

November 24th (Lemar's album release date) cannot come any soon as Love Soul can contest to. Love Soul interview Lemar who talked about "The Reason" recording sessions.

spotted at LoveSoulTV

The official download date for "If She Only Knew" in the UK is on November 7th. Until then re-read my earlier post on Lemar's music right here.

Boris Kodjoe and his wife Nicole Ari Parker attended the opening of Tyler Perry's historic TV & Film studio in Atlanta, Georgia last night. (FYI: Boris appeared in Tyler's 2006 film, "Madea's Family Reunion.) Don't they just look like they step off a fashion magazine cover??!

photos: GETTY/WIREIMAGE

Updated: I added four more photos of Boris and Nicole from Calvin Evans.

Iman (in a yellow and white ruched Rachel Roy dress) attended New York's Foundation Fundraising Gala. Clearly this woman doesn't have a off day as she looked great as usually. Anyhow Iman posed alongside Mayor Bloomberg, Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower. (No signs of her husband David Bowie, though.)

Photos: WIREIMAGE/NY Post/YBF

On the fashion tip, Iman wore another yellow Rachel Roy design last year at Saks. Which look do you prefer?

My random thoughts:
Watching the African Channel yesterday got my attention fixed on Gabon-based artist Oliver N'Goma. Check out his two addictive reggae-infused singles, "Mueste" and "Bane."

Looooves it! Check out his Best of CD here.
disclaimer: Do I really need to place a disclaimer on Oliver's music?? Do I??!

Afro/Naija News:

Ten questions with Project Runway's Korto Momolu. [Clutch Online]
Do you think Mercy Johnson is Hollywood's sexiest actress? [Four2One]
Scouting for Face of Africa 2008 competition hits Angola. [Chi9ja]

SEAL REMAKES SAM COOKE'S CLASSIC

2008-10-05T06:59:00.007+01:00

Check out Seal's latest video for his single, "A Change Is Gonna Come." Personally I think he used the video as a means to flaunt his wedding ring. (I'm just joking of course!) Seal remade 11 throwback R&B songs for his upcoming album, "Soul" out November 11th.

If the song sounds familar, that's because it's a remake of Sam Cooke's 1964 Civil Rights Movement anthem .

Which song style did you prefer? (FYI: I'm sticking with the original!) Check out the tracklisting for Seal's "Soul" record via Billboard:

"A Change Is Gonna Come" (Sam Cooke)
"I Can't Stand The Rain" (Ann Pebbles)
"It's A Man's Man's Man's World" (James Brown)
"Knock on Wood" (Eddie Floyd)
"I've Been Loving You Too Long" (Otis Redding
"Here I Am (Come And Take Me)" (Al Green)
"If You Don't Know Me By Now" (Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes)
"It's Alright" (the Impressions)
"I'm Still in Love With You" (Al Green)
"Free" (Deniece Williams)
"People Get Ready" (the Impressions)

Zap Mama collaborated with Erykah Badu on the track, "Bandy Bandy" off Zap's 2004 album, "Ancestry in Progress." If you want to know more about this album, Okay Player has all the answers to your questions.

Related Links/Facts on Zap Mama:

Zap Mama is a Beligan group led by the Congo-born vocalist Marie Daulne. [Wikipedia]
Add Zap as your myspace friend. [MySpace]
Read up on their updates on Zap Mama official site. [ZAPMAMA.BE]
Zap Mama Fansite!
Zap Mama has collaborated with The Roots, Common, and Talib Kweli.
"Supermoon" the group's latest album was released in 2007. [Amazon]
Marie Daulne on "Bandy Bandy": "Bandy Bandy" is a song about the oppression of a big city, and how to escape it by having a walk, allowing yourself to be astonished by the beauty of nature. [Maybe it's] an ant, a bird or a tree… all these small things. I learned that from my American friends in New York: people who have lived there for a long time, but still feel very close to nature. [credit: ZAPMAMA.COM viat The CDW]

Site to Visit: MRS-O.ORG
Barack Obama's wife Michelle has become the fashionista to watch so it comes as no surprise that she has a large fan base watching her every fashion move. Mrs. O fixes your obsessions with Michelle O's style picks. So I decided to make Michelle Obama Fashion (Mrs. O.org) today's site to visit. The site comes with a tag line that fits with its content: "Follow the fashion of Mrs. O: A regular look at what and who she's wearing."

http://www.mrs-o.org/

My random thoughts:
Only Heidi Klum and Melody Thornton can pull off that fringe Thomas Wylde "Nomad" bag. Don't you agree? This bag is one serious accessory that only the brave ones can rock. Heidi kept her look simple while Melody piled on a million and one trends for her look. I do love Melody's Gucci boots.

Photos: Socalite Life, Splash

While on the topic of Miss Badu, I thoroughly enjoy this vintage cut from her called, "Back In The Day."

disclaimer: my random thoughts are very tongue in cheek as is my twitter page!

Afro/Naija News:

Check out this Nigerian-inspired clothing company, WeWe. [Fly]
Sneak Preview of Estelle's "Come On Over" (Remix) video. [Stuff Fly People Like]
Thandie Newton covers Black Book magazine. [Thandie Blog]
Grab Michelle Obama's striped H&M dress. [In A Word..Fab]

MIRIAM MAKEBA - "PATA PATA" VIDEO FLASHBACK

2008-10-02T15:44:00.003+01:00

I caught this clip of South African singer Miriam Makeba's "Pata Pata" on The Africa Channel. (Can you tell I'm hooked on The Africa Channel yet?) "Pata Pata" was a HUGE hit back in South Africa in 1956 before creating US buzz in 1967. I know a few friends that play this song like it came out yesterday. The catchy beat and melody just hooks you in. Did you know that 2000 verison has a cameo from Miriam's granddaughter? Check it out...

Check out another performance of "Pata Pata" at VARA TV-studios in Holland, 1979. The little girl that joined Miriam on stage is her granddaughter Zenzi whose mother Bongi Makeba is the backgrouund singer in the blue dress.

I couldn't find the 2000 video on YouTube but I did find this 2007 performance. Rumor has it that Miriam's grandson is playing the drums in the following clip...

All About Miriam Makeba:

Add her as your myspace friend. [MYSPACE.COM/MIRIAMMAKEBA]
Quick biography of Miss Makeba. [All Music]
"Pata Pata" was featured in the 2006 film, "Bobby." [IMDB]
Makeba recorded music with Harry Belafonte. [ANSWERS]
Miriam was also known as Mama Africa. [Wikipedia]
All About Miriam Makeba Fan-stie. [AKH.SE]
Her official website, MIRIAMMAKEBA.CO.ZA.

NIGERIA TURNS 48 - HAPPY INDEPENDENCE!

2008-10-01T21:55:00.006+01:00

Today precisely since October 1st, 1960 Nigeria celebrated its 48th year of independence from British rule. Happy Independence Day! Rock that green and white ever so proudly. I found these two cute GIF via Google Images...

Also, today is the second blog anniversary of Feels Good 2 B Home. Many thanks to the readers like Wienna (love your witty comments), those who sent me e-mails, and my blogroll friends especially Ladybrille! I thorougly enjoy keeping you informed about Naija elements and African news. Do contact me anytime via feelsgood2bhome@gmail.com.

Have you register to vote yet? Various celebs ask you to pass along this video clip to five friends.

Leonardo DiCaprio, will i. am, Tobey Maguire, and Forest Whitaker have created public service announcements to encourage American youth to register to vote. The non-partisan PSAs, produced by DiCaprios Appian Way, were created to engage and inspire young people to register and vote and participate in the upcoming election. Celebrities appearing in the PSAs include: Amy Adams, will.i.am, Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Bacon, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Connolly, Courteney Cox, Ellen DeGeneres, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, Jonah Hill, Dustin Hoffman, Anthony Kiedis, Ashton Kutcher, Adam Levine, Laura Linney, Eva Longoria, Tobey Maguire, Demi Moore, Natalie Portman, Giovanni Ribisi, Ethan Suplee, Kyra Sedgwick, Michelle Trachtenberg, Usher, and Forest Whitaker.

I couldn't resist posting this up after seeing it on Ariztos Magazine. It's a British comedy's take on Africans called "The owmwokwopopo sketch."

Rants/thoughts:
Well this is more so my random thoughts then my typical rants. For those within the tri-state area and who has cable, do admit to yourself that the Africa Channel is thoroughly addictive. I heart the soap opera, "Generations" all too much.

disclaimer: all rants/thoughts are meant in good humor.

Afro/Naija News:

Fatima Siad of "ANTM" Cycle 10 reunites on "Tyra Banks Show." [Tyra]
Chris Brown names his underwear line, Big-Headed?!? [Mrs. Grapevine]
Are you ready for Miss World 2008 in South Africa? [Ariztos]

SOPHIE OKONEDO CHATS WITH EBONY

2008-09-30T04:34:00.005+01:00

Sophie Okonedo is featured alongside her "Bees" co-stars Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Hudson for Ebony magazine's November 2008 photo spread. (photos: Keith Major for Ebony)

The British actress (shown in a scene with Jennifer Hudson's character) who won an Oscar nomination for her role in Hotel Rwanda, says it was "so unusual" to be on a set with "a whole bunch of Black women...all of them strong, all of them characters."

Remember you saw the scans here first on FG2BH!

Scans: Me

More "Bees" highlights:

"Bees" leading stars campaign for Senator Barack Obama...

Queen Latifah, Sophie Okonedo, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Hudson want you to visit http://www.voteforchange.com/ to register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and find your polling location on November 4...
Check out this frequently updated fan site, Sophie Okonedo Love.
"Bees" just like I predicted gets Oscar buzz from Black Tree TV...
On October 2nd, the cast and author of "Bees" will appear on Oprah.

My rants/thoughts:
I finally joined the hoopla that is twitter...and I'm officially 25 as of yesterday. October 1st would mark two years of FG2BH.
Last night I saw "Family That Preys" and let's just say that Sanaa Lathan's character is quite a bitchy one. Like Sanaa told "Jewel" magazine, you will applaud the way she got shut down at the end. Without giving too much away, you're going to enjoy that one particular country tune that plays in the movie mid-way through and at the very end. Anyhow I walked away with one lesson learned: Live your life to the fullest and do enjoy yourself along the way. I rate this movie as a must-see! I'll probably see "The Women" this weekend.
disclaimer: all rants/thoughts are in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Register to vote! November 4th is the day you vote for your U.S President!
Check out Tina Fey as Governor/VP hopeful Sarah Palin on "SNL" ...

Did Tina Fey go too far with her latest Palin spoof? [La Times Blog]

Listen in on Michelle & Barack's one-on-one talk. [Black Snob]

Idris Elba and Laz Alonso were caught in this blinged-out Barack Obama tee-shirt. [Concrete Loop]

Nigeria's 48th Independence Day is this Wednesday October 1st. Rock your green white green ever so proudly!

MICHELLE OBAMA IN THAKOON...AGAIN!

2008-09-28T05:33:00.007+01:00

Clearly the old saying, "If It Ain't Broke, don't fix it" applies to the fashionista Michelle Obama when she wore another Thakoon creation at the first Presidential debate.

Michelle's Thakoon floral Fall 2008 dress retails for $1,250. (Thanks to Black Snob for the dress ID!) So what do you think of Michelle's dress pick?

Sophie Okonedo has been busy promoting her latest film, "The Secret Life of Bees" and at each event, she switches up her style.

Grab Sophie's black beaded necklace for less:

1. apt. 9 gold-tone black beaded necklace $18.76
2. Black strand/white link necklace $18.99
3. Matte teardrop necklace, $4.80
4. Round Wood bead necklace, $565
5. Braided bead necklace, $230

Rants/thoughts:
Why is it when you speak to someone you haven't seen in a long time, they are quick to remind you that I'm so-and-so from [insert your hometown]. Do they say this to imply you don't know/remember where they are from?

Can't you hear the soul in this song?

So I went to the African market in New York City last night to purchase some vintage music. When I get to the counter, I'm overjoyed by the display of Nollywood movies and music. So when I ask the cashier whether or not they carry music. He told me ever so boldy no we don't. I look down at the display which CLEARLY has the music I wanted and I looked back at the cashier. I simply shook my head. Things that make me go hmm...
disclaimer: all rants/thoughts are in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Chanel Iman made Gucci history! [Mrs. Grapevine]
Ghana Gets $300 Million Facility From JPMorgan! [Bloomberg]
Virgin Nigeria Suspends Plan to Fly U.S. Routes. [All Africa]
Woman advocates for better life in Kenya. [ABC Local]
Stephanie Okereke on the Making of "Through the Glass" Film. [Ladybrille]
Brandy loves a great Chanel shoe. [SET]
50 Cent to Jay-Z: Beyonce made you! [Fresh & Fab]
Who has better style - Rocsi, Ciara, Kelly Rowland or Angela Simmons? [Urban-Hoopla]
Meet the new fashion girl, Aminata Niar. [The Cut]

SANAA LATHAN TALKS TO "JEWEL" ABOUT WALE

2008-09-26T04:59:00.010+01:00

Sanaa Lathan talks a bit about her boyfriend Chicago defensive end Adewale Ogunleye. In the past, Sanaa called Wale her African prince.

Then she gets a little deeper, delving into her spirituality, being Black in Hollywood, her upcoming projects, and her current beau, Chicago Bears defensive end Adewale Ogunleye, who calls once during our interview. Judging by the softness in her voice and the smile on her face, it appears she’s found her brown-sugar boo. Lathan and Ogunleye, whom she calls “Wale,” were initially hooked up by Lathan’s older brother Tendaji and have been dating for two years. “He came highly recommended by my brother,” Lathan says with a grin. “We just hit it off right away. He’s really smart and really sweet…” At that moment, Lathan’s internal censor gets reactivated, and the intensely private actress politely says, “I don’t think I should talk about him. Should I?” [MIKI TURNER FOR JEWEL]

Sanaa also talked about becoming a mother and a wife one day.

While she hopes to become a wife and mother someday, she isn’t one to listen to the ticking of her pesky biological clock. “I really want it to be organic. I want it to happen because it’s right for me and my partner,” she says. “Of course, there is that fear and the statistics about the biological clock and having kids. Whenever that comes up, I just try to breathe and say, ‘You know what? Just have faith that it will all work out perfectly.’ “That’s not to say that I don’t have my days when I get depressed or angry,” she continues. “But I definitely practice optimism and gratitude. I’ve seen a difference since I started doing that. It’s like your life shifts around you when you practice that attitude of gratitude." [jewel]

Time will only tell if these two will make it in the end...

My personal thoughts:
The joy of being a celebrity is rocking the latest 'in' bag. Check out the YSL handbags Lindsay Lohan and Jada Pinkett Smith got their hands. Not to be outdone, Jennifer Lopez flaunted her Dolce & Gabbana bag and Rihanna rock her beloved Givenchy Nightingale. Solange wore her Armani bag twice.

Oh it must be pleasantly nice... [UPDATE: That's a Zac Posen bag Jada has not a YSL!]

Billboard's Hot 100 celebrated its 50th anniversary this year - August 1958 to be precise. And here are my favorites off the many lists:

"Say, Say, Say" - Paul McCartney f/ Michael Jackson

Two of the biggest artists of their time came together on this wonderful track.

Off the Top R&B Hip-Hop Songs list, I enjoyed many picks and was surprised to see "Crank Dat" and "Low" on the list. (things that make me go hmm...) The list also had a great mix of oldies and some of today's biggest artists.

"Say You, Say Me" - Lionel Richie

This song came in at #31 right over his previous hit, "All Night Long (All Night)" AND Mary J Blige's "Family Affair."

Shania Twain's "You're Still The One" made the Top Country Songs of All-Time list. This song is truly the wedding anthem...and I based that off that the weddings I attended.

Moving right along...
Do you think the message within this song ("If You Wanna Be Happy" by Jimmy Soul) still holds today?

disclaimer: all thoughts are meant in good, positive humor!

Site to Visit: Blog Around Harlem

http://www.blog-aroundharlem.com/

Do visit Blog Around Harlem if you thoroughly enjoy all things Urban America. It's a great online lifestyle magazine that informs the reader about all the fun events that happens in New York City.

Afro/Naija News:

Political Fashion-Faceoff: Condi Rice vs Michelle Obama. [The Black Snob]
First Lady of Ghana looks effortlessly fab. [Princess Sparkle Pony's Photo Blog]
Liberian President says Obama should stick to Change. [Black Voices Blog]
Xeno-Centrism: The Killer of Our Culture by Nnena Uzowulu. [Ebony Intuition]
Who Wore Rock & Republic Better? [Abiola & The Goddess Factory]
Jay-Z and Beyonce are seriously obsessed with "Fela - the new off-Broadway play that is. [Stereohyped]

Just a quick reminder - the 2008 Nigeria Independence Day Parade in New York City is on Saturday - yes this Saturday! Nigeria celebrates 48 years of independence! After all, I made the flag my blog's banner! :-)

AFRIK ELEGANCE 2008 IN NYC

2008-09-25T14:48:00.007+01:00

The second annual Afrik Elegance 2008 fashion show was held at Hotel Pennsylvania in New York City on September 13, 2008. The day after New York Fashion Week wrapped up, African designers held their own show.

The fashion show featured designers from Ivory Coast, Senegal, Congo, and Madagascar. One of the designers worked for Chanel in Paris and another designed all the first ladies outfits in Africa.

One of the designers that impressed me was B. Oyama who has his own boutique in Harlem. B. Oyama was the brainchild (re: producer) of the fashion show. Check out his contact info: 2330 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. Between 136th and 137th Streets New York, NY 10027 212-234-5128 phone

Designs from Amy Camara of Ivory Coast:

Designs from Haingotiana Ramahandry of Madagascar:

Former Chanel designer Victory:

Other designs included Congo designers Marie Claire Stshudi Omba, Gabriel Ramazani, and Sula Mbula, Senegal's Gueye Khady Soumare, Gabon's M. Bernadette Tchandi and Madagascar's Haingotiana Ramahandry.

All photography done by Chi-Chi for Feels Good 2 B Home. Many thanks to Blog Around Harlem for the invite!

NGO & BORIS GOT SWAGGER + SKIN BLEACHING

2008-09-17T17:13:00.009+01:00

Boris Kodjoe looked every bit like the fashion designer he has become in a new one-page article featured in the new "Uptown" magazine. All I have to say about the photo is swagger, swagger, swagger!

(Photo credit: Derek Blanks/ Thanks Necole!)

So I paid a visit to my local Barnes & Noble last night, the following romance novel cover got my attention.

By the looks of it, that's male model Ngo Okafor! (Maybe my eyes are playing tricks on me but I'm waiting on him to confirm/deny that's him.) Do add him on myspace right here.

Tyra Banks visited a topic that is still revelant in few African countries. When I visited Nigeria a few years ago, I noticed a few of my Nigerian sisters bleaching their natural complexion for a lighter (re: what they consider more desirable) skin. Some of them argue that men wouldn't married them if they weren't lighter. (Do keep in mind these men are also dark but they don't have to bleach. Insert: the side-eye!) So when Tyra decided to use her datyime talk show as a platform to speak about it, I tune in.

I've been asked by many why do we bleach our complexion? Well the same can be said for those who enjoy tanning? You simply can't have it both ways. Skin bleaching is a hip thing to do within the black community and I say that very loosely! This is a HOT topic on Tyra's website. Darker women wants to be lighter and the fair women wants to be tan. What do you think?

UPDATE: Check out the entire episode...

Rants/thoughts:
I wish I found these Halle Berry's DVF gold metallic "Molto" sandals during the Summer time. They would been perfect for the wedding I went to back in August.

-sigh!-

Photo credits: Gossip Girls/FLYNET

Speaking of gold, isn't LaLa's Yves Saint Laurent sequin "Mombasa" bag AND Haute Hippie beaded tunic divine?! *By the way Lauren Conrad also wore this tunic recently.

Beyonce's high-fashion photo session with Tony Duran raised a few eyebrows but would have rock this Jean Paul Gaultier zebra print coat better than Mrs. Carter?

ESSENCE.COM got a great makeover...and I like what they did with the layout. It's easier to read, huh?

disclaimer: All rants/thoughts are in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Wycelf Jean & Matt Damon Visit Haiti City. [Ebony Intuition]

Nigerians are fighting over Oil. [Yahoo]

Duro Olowu in the latest's Vogue. [Match Fetch Happen]

Ladybrille chats with Iman. [Ladybrille]

Lauren Conrad and LaLa Vasquez got bitten by YSL accessories. [Urban-Hoopla]

Ramsey Noah opens up about his career. [Bella Naija]

Updated Fashion tidbits from Johannesburg. [Boutique Mix Fashion]

Trya Banks and Sessilee Lopez honors "Mahogany"! [Mrs. Grapevine]

Style Showdown: Rihanna vs Thandie. [Genuine-Imitation]

NAIJA INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE NYC 2008

2008-09-16T20:06:00.004+01:00

The 48th Annual Nigerian Independence Day Parade will kick off in New York City on Saturday September 27th, 2008 with special guests Berbice, The African Kings, Ishola, and Emperor Adichie. Click on both flyers for additional info!

Feels Good 2 B Home was on the scene for the past two years. I bump into Former Miss Nigeria Regina Askia, Ramsey Noah, P Square, Omotola, Ebby Bassey, Madrocka, and Nnenna. In 2007, I bump into the individuals behind "This America" and AFRICANEVENTS.COM.

FILM SWAGGER - SOPHIE & IDRIS

2008-09-12T06:47:00.006+01:00

Check out this newly released snapshot of Sophie Okonedo taken during the 2008 Toronto Int'l Film Festival. Sophie's busy promoting her film, "The Secret Life of Bees"...so she was also spotted at In Style magazine's party.

[spotted at In Style]

Photo credits: GETTY

Ali Larter Fan & Beyonce World posted up the first official photo from Idris Elba's upcoming movie, "Obsessed" which co-stars Ali Larter and Beyonce.

Idris and Beyonce are married while Ali's the mistress. Interesting...

Thoughts/Rants:

Pierre Hardy has gotten a boatload of press on the blogosphere thanks to Cassie, LaLa, Rihanna, Kylie Minogue, Angela Simmons, and Rocsi. Why? Metallic.strappy.platform.sandals!

As you can tell these shoes are quite fierce..even Cassie had to wear them twice. Now if I were to get these overpriced shoes, I would wear it with a skirt just to show it off.

disclaimer: all thoughts/rants are in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Avant talks about his new single. [Urban-Hoopla]
Ciara to sue Vibe magazine. [Project Scoop]
Kanye West got back together with his ex, Alexis. [Straight Outta NYC]
Barack Obama to appear on Saturday Night Live. [People]
Idris Elba's estranged wife is on the move. [The YBF]
Michelle Obama snags another magazine cover gig. [The Black Snob]
Idris Elba perserves his sexy at TIFF. [Fresh & Fab]
Check out how Solange maintains her style. [The Quick's Catch Up]

BLACK MODELS ON SPRING 2009 CATWALK

2008-09-10T16:19:00.012+01:00

Frankly all eyes were positioned on the Spring 2009 catwalk for any positive effect bought on by the All-Black Vogue Italia hoopla. After all, "Vogue Italia" was the most-talked fashion magazine of the year..and the blogosphere!

Photo credits: JEZBEL, STYLE.COM, NYTIMES.COM

Outside of Sessliee Lopez, Arlenis Pena, and Chanel Iman, there have been relative more black models strutting their stuff on the runway as Stereohyped pointed out. Don't believe my assumption? Keep reading...

Betsey Johnson Spring 2009 - Samira Bento (Brazilian model)

Hervé Léger by Max Azria - Marie Fuema (IMG Model) & Arlenis Sosa

Tracy Reese - Nana, Samira Carvalho (Brazilian model), Hollis Wakeema (African-American model), Lily, Shelby Coleman (African-American model), and Joan Smalls (NYMag's 'It' Girl).

Matthew Williamson Spring 2009 - Arlenis Sosa.

Narciso Rodriguez Spring 2009 - Liya Kebede (Ethiopian model) and Arlenis Sosa.

Rodarte Spring 2009 - Jourdan Dunn.

Marc Jacobs Spring 2009 - Chanel Iman, Jourdan Dunn, and Sessliee Lopez.

Max Azria Spring 2009 - Chanel Iman

Carolina Herrera Spring 2009 - Lakshmi Menon (Indian model), Arlenis, and Jourdan Dunn.

Isaac Mizrahi Spring 2009 - Chanel Iman.

Malandrino Spring 2009 - Aminata Niaria (Priscilla's Model Mangement)

Rock & Republic - Chanel Iman (Vogue Korea cover girl), unknown model, and Hollis Wakeema.

GAP Spring 2009 - Arlenis (Lancome spokesmodel) & Sessliee.

Check out the complete Spring 2009 collections over at STYLE.COM.

Photo credits: style.com

Related Fashion Week Links:

Celebs front row. [Us Weekly]
Would you wear Victoria Beckham's new dress collection? [Style Watch]
Inside Scoop on Fashion Week. [People]
Runway trends on Spring 2009 catwalk. [In Style]
Everyone attended Marc Jacobs show. [PopSugar]

Estelle kept cool in the rain at Mercury Music Prize Awards 2008 in London. On her feet are a pair of suede Pierre Hardy shoes - a look seen on Nia Long.

*The gif disappeared...

Photo credits: WENN/GETTY/CONCRETELOOP.

Rants/thoughts:
Every girl has a shoe that drool over well this is my take. I simply adore these Givenchy sandals that Mary-Kate Olsen, Liv Tyler, and Gwyneth Paltrow all have. (These beauties remind me of my Carrie infatuation.)

Don't you hate when a dress you love goes on sale and the minute you hit 'buy', it's sold out. Case in point this Marc by Marc Jacobs dress that Leighton Meester, Fergie, and Dawn Richards all worn.

-sigh!- Well at least I know Marc's dress and those Givenchy shoes don't mix quite well but then again...

The Northern part of Nigeria thinks it's a great idea to marry off HIV folks to one another in a bid 'reduce the spread of the disease.' Is this situation a 'positive' answer to cracking down HIV cases in Naija? Speak on it!

Photo credits: DAILYSTAB.COM/WIREIMAGE/GOSSIP GIRLS
disclaimer: all thoughts/rants are in good humor!

Site to visit: Gorgerous Black Woman

It's been awhile since I did a "Site To Visit" update. The wait is worth it thanks to GORGEROUS BLACK WOMAN. This blog spot is run and maintain by one savvy slogan, "Celebrating Black Beauty Each & Every Day." From the fun newsstand vintage photos on the sidebar to the photo slideshow as the banner, this blog keeps you the reader thoroughly entertained and informed - visually and content wise.

Afro/News Naija News:

Elisabeth Hasselbeck trashes Michelle Obama at the RNC. [Stereohyped]
Real Tent Style Part 1 [The Fashion Bomb]
Models are making a cover comeback. [In A Word...Fab]
Find out how this Black Halo cut-out dress became Hollywood's most popular dress. [Mrs Grapevine]
Thandie Newton on the birthing experience [Black Celeb Kids]
Find out why Michelle Obama is a positive model for the Black female. [Raw Dawg Buffalo]

ESTELLE & DJIMON SUPPORTS CK'S 40TH BASH

2008-09-09T08:45:00.004+01:00

Djimon Hounsou and Estelle were just some of the many stars that attended the 40th anniversary bash for fashion designer Calvin Klein yesterday in New York City. Estelle looked sharp in a white suit with high-waist pants...and Djimon looked great as usual!

On a style tip, Estelle wore a black bustier - similar to the Patricia Field bustier Rihanna had on at the 2008 Video Music Awards. (A trend is born??) On Estelle's feet are these Christian Louboutin pumps - the very ones Solange Knowles and Kerry Washington were seen in.

Photo credits: GETTY/FILMMAGIC/OMG.YAHOO.COM

Afro/Naija News:

Michelle Obama proves she's a better dancer than her husband. [PopCrunch]
Johan, Seal's son, out and about with his mom Heidi Klum. [Black Celeb Kids]
Whitney Houston and Ciara in the same Elie Saab dress - Who Rock'd It Better? [Concrete Loop]
Serena Williams Post USA Open interview with Regis & Kelly. [DimeWars]
Brandy makes a colorful splash at Tracy Reese fashion show. [NSC Fashion Network]
New info on Beyonce's single, "I'm Just A Boy". [That Grape Juice]
Fashion Indie Brooklyn Fashion Week. [Ladybrille]
Thandie Newton gets bitten by the blogging bug. [ONTD!]

THANDIE'S EVERYWHERE!

2008-09-08T15:53:00.004+01:00

Thandie Newton attended the GQ Men of the Year Awards (in Erdem) and the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival (in Matthew Williamson) to promote her latest film "RockNRolla."

At both events, Thandie went for a colorful look with Giuseppe Zanotti shoes. I especially love Thandie's YSL clutch.

Which look do you prefer?

In Erdem at GQ Men of The Year Awards
In Matthew Williamson at "TIFF"

[SOURCE]

The good folks at Filmmagic mistakenly identifed actress Zoe Saldana as Thandie Newton. Hmmm...these two can pass as siblings sort of.

Related links on Thandie:

Thandie Newton on becoming Condoleeza Rice. [Times Online]
Thandie refused to shoot sex scene with Gerard Butler. [CM]

Afro/Naija News:

Seal & Heidi are hands-on parents. [Black Celebrity Kids]
Beyonce flaunts her $5 million ring. [Us Weekly]
Best Dressed picks at the 2008 VMA's. [NSC Fashion Network]
Check out all the performances from the VMA's. [Fresh & Fab]
My fellow Bronx chick Joy Bryant at Fashion Week. [Quick's Catch Up]
Serena Williams wins her 3rd U.S Open. [Concrete Loop]
More photos of Sophie Okonedo's TIFF appearance. [Neon Limelight]
Get to know Naija make up artist Lise. [Naija Gal]

My favorite clip from the 2008 VMA's...

Photo credits: CELEBUTOPIA/GETTY/FLYNET

ALL ABOUT SOPHIE'S BEES

2008-09-06T23:10:00.007+01:00

Sophie Okonedo went into promotional blitz mode thanks in part of her latest film project, "The Secret Life of Bees."

The UK-based actress was seen at the Toronto Int'l Film Festival with her "Bees" castmates for the premiere and a press conference. According to several media sources, "Bees" jumpstarted the Oscar buzz. So does this mean a possible nomination for Sophie?!?!

Photo credits: GETTY/WIREIMAGE

Hopefully by the time "Bees" gets release, I've seen The Women and Tyler Perry's "The Family That Preys." The last film I saw was "The Dark Knight"...and I cannot wait until it gets release on DVD.

Related Sophie Okonedo links:

Sophie Okonedo Love [Fansite]
Behind the scenes at Toronto Film Festival. [FLICKR]
"Bees" mania at Toronto Film Festival
Canada reacts to Bees! [YAHOO!]
Photos from the movie set. [IMDB]

Anyone saw the "Just Stand Up" performance at Fashion Rocks? If not, press play...

[Thanks The Celebrity Network!]

Did the performance leave you with "WOW" or "Damn"?

Speaking of "Damn", Akon either enjoys hitting folks at random or someone seriously got on his bad side...again. Check it out...

Moving right along...

Alicia Keys (Sophie's "Bees" co-star) knock out a three-song medley that included "Superwoman", "Like You'll Never See Me Again" and "No One" on BET's "106 & Park."

Nice!

Afro/Naija News:

Check out Rihanna's latest style obsessions [Genuine Imitation]
This is what Beyonce, Melody Thornton, Naomi, Solange, and Christina Aguilera have in common. [Urban-Hoopla]
Arlenis Sosa is the face of Lancome. [Off The Rack]
Style Trends from Fashion Rocks. [Fashionista 101]

LIYA KEBEDE'S TIFFANY & CO. PRINT AD

2008-09-05T21:18:00.004+01:00

This may very well be my shortest post ever on FG2BH but I couldn't resist posting up this print AD of Liya Kebede for her current Tiffany & Co spokesmodel gig.

The AD came with the tag line, "Some Style is Legendary" and I couldn't more agreed.

[Spotted at net-a-porter.com and tiffany.com]

LIVE BLOG: THE DIASPORAN STAR

2008-09-04T22:09:00.010+01:00

The live blog of me reading the Sept. 2008 edition of "Diasporan Star" kicks off NOW. It's 5 PM my time (EST) and it's 11 PM over in Nigeria. (I'll post up the cover in a moment.)

*5:17 PM - Mama G and Okurame Ejiro are on the cover. Which headline to read first? Mama G wins: "I have not had sex since 2002. Dating a younger man is child abuse."

*5:45 - Okurame Ejiro gets named as a "Nollywood sexpot." She says, "Men are intimidated by me." (-Google search for why men are this way to her.-)

*5:52 - Blind item-type headline, "U.S. Supermodel & Nollywood's Top Actor in Secret Romance! Exclusive details of their Dunken Night Together in a New York Hotel." (Hmm...I wonder who???)

*6:05 - Page 2 and 3 contains two ADs from one African restaurant and a law office. There's a table of contents on page 3. So far the headline on "Things Falls Apart" catches my eye.

*6:07 - I made it onto page 4 to see the publisher's angle by Ekerete Udoh. Breezing through the first couple of paragraphs, I discover that Ekerete's a smart man who loves Nigeria.

*6:08 - Shout out to Jerry Otomewo the Diasporan Star's photographer!

*6:10 - Page 5 has the juicy tidbits on the U.S-based supermodel and the Nollywood hunk who reportedly "got into the hotel by 1 a.m. and did not leave until 11 a.m the next day." (Hmmmm...Hmmm...Hmmm...) Blind item can be fun and vague. The Nollywood hunk can be anyone so...hmmm...

*6:13 - On the bottom of the page is a subscription form for the paper. $20 for 6 months. $40 for 1 year. (Sidenote: I got this paper free during Labor Day Weekend.)

*7:15 - Oops! I'm too busy the article on 3 warning signs to watch out for from your man. Yeah that read took me an hour to get. There's another AD for a law firm...and there's two more AD's on page 8!

*7:17 - Mama G's interview is on page 9. Give me a moment to get through this. By the way I like the photo of her!

*7:55 - Mama G: "Other African countries have caught on with the Nollywood fever, and it is very exciting and encouraging to see the growth of the industry in other countries - especially Ghana." (Is Ghana taking over? I think my good friend NAIJA GAL is onto something!)

*8:17 - "I am a widow. My husband died in 2002. I miss him dearly. Together, we have three sons who are now my husbands. They are overly protective of me." (If the woman in a marriage dies, the man is open to get married again but that doesn't work the other way around in some African cultures. Speak on it.)

*8:20 - Page 11 has the one-page article called, "Nollywood Side-Dish" by Julie Van-Lere. The articles contains a boatload of actors like Jackie Appiah, Omotolo, Ramsey Noah, Kate Henshaw, Dakore Egbuson, etc. One bold statement pops up: "Hey Ramsey Nouah, Jr - "Lover Boy" watch your back Vic Vicker of "Beyonce" fame is gradually replacing you as the resident half-caste of Nollywood."

*9:19 - Okay so I finally added the cover! Back to reading...

*9:22 - Okurame credits Rita Dominic as her Nollywood big break. On her love life: She admits she's dating a man in the entertainment industry. "He is humble, understanding, and a great lover. I rate him on a scale of 1-10, an 8. When we get married, it would be 10. I am deliberately conserving the remanining 2 points so he won't get everything. The 2 points would be the surprse during our marital days." (Hmmm...that scale is something else, huh?)

*9:24 - Extra scoop from Okurame's interview with Ekerete Udoh, she's in America filming the Nollywood "Godfather" with director Zeb Ejiro.

*9:26 - TM claims "American Dream" with Jim Iyke, Yomi Layinke, Ngozi Oriji, Fred Asaroma, Ose Baseki and Esther Moore is a must-see comedy!

*9:35 - Rudolf Ogoo Okonkwo wonders if we would ever go back home because going home has become an 'attractive option.' He writes, "At Home you will have a driver." (My thoughts: That's a very tempting thought as driving for me can be downright tiring, lol!)

*9:38 - I've made to the Diasopran Celebrity Events section! First up is a Church celebration in the Bronx. Then there's the 21st AKWAY IBOM Convention. Nice....

*9:39 - BINGO! These two-page wedding photos are from the wedding I told you all about. (I spotted "TDS" photographer in one of the photos I took!)

*9:49 - More photos...and another fun AD. Omasan Buwa tells readers to "Be Careful Of What You Ask For..." Right under her advice column are more photos from the wedding.

*9:52 - I finally stumbled upon the article on China Achebe's novel, "Things Fall Apart." By the way this November the U.S Library of Congress will honor the 50th anniversary of Achebe's epic. Great write-up, Malcolm Udogwu...

*9:56 - Another AD for food. This AD got me craving for some egusi, garri, and some stockfish - served separately of course!

*9:57 - Another AD on African Fashion (marucherb.com)

*9:58 - The remaining two articles are bundled up in even more AD's from African-based businesses.

*9:59 - Original African DVD's from African Movies Mall showcases films like "Pretty Queen", "To Love & Cherish", "Playboy", etc.

*10:00 - I made it! I did it! I successfully read back to back the latest "Diasporan Star"! Time for a tall drink of water ASAP!

Afro/Naija News:

I'm named a Certified Honest Blogger by F&F!

Jada Pinkett Smith & Mary J Blige jumpstarts a new trend - bow clutch. [Mrs. Grapevine]

Michelle Williams strikes a pose for Bloomingdales. [Fresh & Fab]

Brandy finally releases her "Right Here (Departed)" video. [Quick's Catch Up]

Check out Toni Braxton's Dancing With The Stars promo portrait. [Urban-Hoopla]

Ciara goes nude for "VIBE" magazine. [Concrete Loop]

What's The Most Played-Out Trend in Hip-Hop and R&B right Now? [Soulbounce]

Beyonce covers Marie Claire UK. [Toya's World]

New York Fashion Week starts TOMORROW so will the impact of Vogue Italia All-Black Issue be seen??

Must there be a semi-nude photo on VANVICKERLIVE.COM??!

IDRIS & THANDIE AT 'ROCKNROLLA' LONDON PREMIERE

2008-09-02T05:59:00.009+01:00

Thandie Newton and Idris Elba recently attended the world premiere of their latest film "RocknRolla" at the Odeon Cinema in London.

Isn't that one fierce white toga-inspired Jasmine Di Milo dress?! What about those metallic Casadei heels? Kudos to Thandie for switching up her style! Guy Richie, the film's director, brought along his wife Madonna...while Thandie came with her husband Ol Parker. Idris came to the event with a Barack Obama 'Change' tee-shirt...a look established by Halle Berry and Beyonce Knowles-Carter.

Photo credits: GETTY IMAGES/WIREIMAGE

The trailer looks promising and it has an all-star ensemble (Gerard Butler, Ludacris, Jeremy Piven, Tom Wilkinson, AND Idris Elba). Gerard + Thandie + Guy + Idris + Jeremy = winning forumla, huh?

Check out the film's summary via MOVIES.YAHOO.COM:

A Russian mobster orchestrates a crooked land deal, putting millions of dollars up for grabs and attracting all of London's criminal underworld.

IGN.COM/IGNEntertainment caught up with Idris who talked briefly about the upcoming Brit caper film. Try not to get distracted by his baritone voice...

Production stills

The movie wouldn't be released until October 3rd. Anyone going to see it?

Photo credits: WARNER BROS PICTURES/MOVIES.YAHOO.COM

Let's take a moment to examine one style trend Thandie sort of jumpstarted earlier this year. Ciara, Beyonce, Carrie Underwood, Nicky Hilton, and Carmen Electra all wore Thandie's mary-janes in either black or red. These Chanel mary-janes are from the designer's Fall 2007 collection.

Love this style trend or pass?

Photo credits: CELEBUTOPIA/WIREIMAGE/ICELEBZ/BEYONCEWORLD/PR PHOTOS

Endless possibilities for less:

1. purple mary janes, $144.95.
2. Jessica Simpson "manning" mary jane, $89.00
3. Sam Edelman "Xila", $119.00.
4. platform peep-toes with triple strap, $59.99.
5. Nine West 'cascada' leather mary-jane, $62.77.
6. Alice + Olivia for Payless, $35.00.

My thoughts:
1. This past Labor Day weekend was quite eventful...and I hope you all enjoy yourself as well. I attended one Naija (re: Amauzari!) convention and a christening between Saturday and Sunday. Away Away was at one of the parties I attended as the DJ/MC/comedian. Away Away was so funny and entertaining...as always! He played every type of music from highlife to Flo Rida to MJ to Madonna to Christian Music to Naija Hip-Hop. When it was time to entertain the kids/teens, he put on "Lollipop", "With U", "No Air", "Low", etc. The fun part was when he put on the "Electric Slide". Everyone started the dance routine THEIR own way which looked a complete mess to Away Away who stop the music to get everyone in order. Fun times, indeed!
2. The September 2008 issue of "The Diasporan Star" is out with Mama G and Okurame Ejiro on the cover. Be on the lookout for my live blog on that real soon.
disclaimer: my thoughts are all in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

The 48th annual Nigerian Independence Day Parade will be on Saturday Sept. 27th in NYC!
It must be nice to be Naomi Campbell! [SET]
Halle Berry & Baby Nahla at the Zoo. [Urban-Hoopla]
The Original Supermodels take back the Spotlight [Hip Candy]
Project Runway's Koro Momolu - rate her latest creations! [Ladybrille]
Vote on the better look between Sanaa Lathan and Jennifer Hudson! [NSC Fashion Network]
Anita Baker's in Nigeria???! [Naija To The Core]
The African remix to "Paper Planes [Nigerian Hip-Hop Blog]
Swoon over these gorgerous photos! [ONADA Loves Photography]
Flicks from the 2008 Unilag event! [Linda Ikeji Blog]

BARACK'S HISTORIC SPEECH AT DNC

2008-08-30T01:38:00.006+01:00

More than 38 Million Americans tune into to watch Senator Barack Obama accepted his historic Presidential Democratic nomination. (Barack became the first African-American to be officially nominated as a candidate for U.S president by a major party.)

84,000 squeezed into Denver's Invesco Field to hear what Barack had to say. Ironically, Barack's speech was done on the 45th anniversary of MLKJr's "I Have A Dream" speech...

In A Word...Fab has Barack's speech transcript!

Michelle shocked plenty of her fashion-obsessed fans when she stepped out in this Thakoon Resort 2009 dress.

Michelle for the first time did NOT wear a design from Maria Pinto. Michelle instead rock her printed dress with three Erickson Beamon broaches. Thakoon Panchiqul was delighted about Michelle's dress choice: "I am incredibly honored that Michelle Obama chose to wear a dress from my collection on such a historical night for her, her family and this country." [FWD]

Afterwards Barack was joined by his family and vice president running mate Joe Biden on the stage...

Photo credits: STYLE/GETTY IMAGES

Jennifer Hudson ripped (re: did the damn thing) the National Anthem as requested by Barack. What do you think?

Yesterday was Michael Jackson's 50th birthday. He made a rare phone interview with "Good Morning America". Here are a few of his accomplishments that I'm happy to be apart. I may be half his age technically but my earliest moment of MJ started right around his "Bad" era but I grew up to appreciate his "Off The Wall" and "Thriller" records. Sit back and enjoy the King of Pop at his very best...

"Billie Jean" at Motown

Diana Ross - "Upside Down" with MJB

"Remember The Time" live

"Dangerous" live

"Off The Wall" live

I've put off this fashion comparison for so long. Nicky Hilton and Estelle both wore this strapless colorblock Herve Leger dress but who pull off the look best?

Online Surveys & Market Research

The dress retails for $990 and it's sold out at Intermix! Grab Nicky's Gucci Hysteria cluch for $675.

Photo credits: ALLTHEPARTIES/WIREIMAGE/celebritysnap

Afro/Naija News:

Amobi Okoye host Vogue Saturdays with Slim Thug. [INDMIX]
Beyonce & Solange take over "The Early Show". [Fresh & Fab]
Black Hollywood's reaction to Barack's speech. [Sterephyped]
Find how Liya Kebede makes her money. [MODELS.COM]
Kerry Washington channels her inner Kate Moss (re: check out that last YSL manifesto AD) for "Giant" magazine. [A Word For My Sista's]
Liquid leggings is a style trend Keyshia Cole & Ashanti love to rock! [Head Over Heels]
Naomi Campbell looks fierce in the latest YSL manifesto. [Off the Rack]
A new style trend for Fall is these yummy statement necklaces [Fashionista 101]
Check out Brandy & Solange's fierce bag look! [Mrs. Grapevine]
Raphel Saadiq's back! [Quick's Catch Up]
David Oyelowo to star in Who Do You Love. [It's All Reel]

OSI'S OUT & MICHELLE O AT DNC

2008-08-27T08:53:00.005+01:00

My jaw dropped when I read the following headline from The Happy Go Lucky Bachelor blog, "Damn it! Osi Umenyiora out of season!" Talk ABOUT when bad things happen to good folks, huh?! Damn...

An MRI today revealed that Giants DE Osi Umenyiora suffered serious ligament damage Saturday night against the Jets and will be forced to undergo surgery, which will probably knock him out for the entire season.

There was some talk about whether to do the short-term rehab or the surgery, but in the end, the Giants opted for surgery to make sure Umenyiora will be better off in the long run. [source/credit: NJ.COM]

Michelle Obama, in a teal Maria Pinto dress and her own personal silver star Erickson Beamon brooch, gave a reviving speech at the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Michelle used her platform to talk about her humble beginnings, her husband Senator Barack Obama, and children Malia & Natasha.

I come here as a wife who loves my husband and believes he will be an extraordinary president.I come here as a Mom whose girls are the heart of my heart and the center of my world — they’re the first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning, and the last thing I think about when I go to bed at night. Their future — and all our children’s future — is my stake in this election.

And I come here as a daughter — raised on the South Side of Chicago by a father who was a blue collar city worker, and a mother who stayed at home with my brother and me. My mother’s love has always been a sustaining force for our family, and one of my greatest joys is seeing her integrity, her compassion, and her intelligence reflected in my own daughters. [CREDIT: BCK/AP]

Sasha and Malia chat with their father after Michelle's speech. Too adorable:

Thanks Black Celeb Kids!

Michelle Obama's good style sense was all the rage during the '08 Democratic National Convention live telecast. As The Black Snob brillantly pointed out Michelle dresses better than you. MARIAPINTO.COM.

Okay who wouldn't love her black Azzedine Alaia belt???

Photo credits: FACTIO/AP/NEWSWEEK/GETTY IMAGES

The full trailer for Sophia Okonedo's upcoming film, "The Secret Life of Bees" debut online recently....~~I had to freeze frame on Nate Parker for a good minute, lol!~~

I.cannot.wait.until.this.OCTOBER! Check out the film's colorful poster over at Thick Misses.

Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker had a great time at their former "Soul Food" co-star Malinda Williams' wedding over the weekend at Newark's The Messanine. (Nicole was one of Malinda's bridemaids...and here is the advice Nicole had to offer to Malinda: "Enjoy each other fully and let one another know how much you enjoy one another, because remembering to appreciate your mate doesn't mean you remember to really enjoy the life, love and romance you have together.") Malinda tied the knot to her long time boyfriend Derrick "DJ D-Nice" Jones...CONGRATS!

Photo credits: Jason Blaney for ESSENCE.COM

Rants/thoughts:
Don't you hate when a song keeps playing over and over in your mind? These three are in constant rotation and I think I just made it worse for my peace of mind, lol!

No Doubt - "Magic in The Makeup"

Solange Knowles - "T.O.N.Y"

112 - "Nowhere"

Thank goodness for HBO In-Demand. Check out Katt Williams demonstrating how to get down in the club:

That dress rountine would be hot with this classic Hakeem song...

disclaimer: all thoughts/rants are in GOOD humor!
Afro/Naija News:

Jennifer Hudson to sing National Anthem for Barack this Thursday. [Thick Misses]
Angela Simmons and Cassie were caught in one another's closets apparently. [Mrs. Grapevine]
Vivica A Fox joins the reality series circuit with Glam God [Hip Candy]
Kanye West drops the COMPLETE video treatment for "Good Morning". [Straight Outta NYC]
Rihanna and Kelly Rowland are crazy about plaid t-shirts! [Steal Style]
Beyonce has a style obsession with this python Armani bag. [Genuine-Imitation]
Vote on Solange's style. [SET]
Chamillionaire made the Forbes list. [Naija Gal]
Who caught your attention more - John Legend or Cassie? [Quick's Catch Up]
Jazmine Sullivan proves WHY she's one to watch. [Fresh & Fab]
Aubrey O'Day confirms Diddy and Cassie relationship to Wendy Williams. [World Star Hip-Hop]
Omarion cuts off his hair...WHY??? [YouTube]

NAIJAS AT BEIJING 2008 PLUS ESTELLE'S PRETTY PLEASE VIDEO

2008-08-24T22:48:00.021+01:00

Nigeria picked up bronze and silver medals at the 2008 Olympic games in Beijing, China...thanks to Miss Blessing Okagbare, Chika Yagazie Chukwumerije, Franca Idoko, Gloria Kemasuode, Halimat Ismaila, and Oludamola Osayomi. According to ThisDay, "The medals, both bronze, were won in the long jump and by the 4x100m women’s relay team." Quite impressive, huh?

Nigeria did not leave the events empty handed at all because we walked away with 4 Olympic medals. Here's to Victor Obinna, Peter Odemwingie, and Ebenezer Alijore for giving it their all during the final match against Argentina!

Kenya scooped up 14 medals from track and field (5 Gold; 5 Silver; 4 Bronze). Congrats to gold medalists Wilfred Bungei, Alfred Kirwa Yego, and Samuel Kamau Wanjiru!

Ethiopia was awarded with 7 medals (4 gold, 1 silver, 2 bronze). Congrats to Track & Field stars Kenenisa Bekele, Tsegay Kebede, Eliud Kipchoge, and Edwin Cheruiyot Soi!

Togo's Benjamin Boukpeti ~~and his yummy biceps~~ picked up a bronze medal at the men's K1 kayak slalom. The medal would become the only one awarded to Togo. Congrats!

Mbango Etone's female triple jump performance won Cameroon a gold medal...Congrats!

For a complete list of all Olympic winners, visit NBCOLYMPICS.COM. 2012 London!

Photo credits: AP/Reuters

Boris Kodjoe dropped by Wendy Williams' successful FOX daytime show to talk about his daughter Sophia who has Spina Bifida.

Boris and his wife Nicole Ari Parker announced plans to raise $1.88 million dollars for children with Spina Bifida. Check out this open letter Boris and Nicole wrote in support of their cause:

We hope you are well. We are writing this letter to share with you a most personal issue and ask for your help. As some of you already heard, our little Sophie was diagnosed at birth with Spina Bifida, the most common birth defect in the US, affecting the brain and/or spine in an average of eight babies a day. Degrees of severity vary from quadriplegic children with major brain damage and spinal injuries to cases of neurogenic bladders or even lesser issues.

We were blessed with a miracle child and spared of the more severe symptoms, but Sophie’s spastic bladder still forces us to catheterize her every three hours, day and night, to avoid pressure build up in her bladder and urine backflow into her kidneys. But frequent catheterization causes urinary tract infections, which are then battled with strong antibiotics, which in turn attack stomach flora and cellular balance, cause bowel issues, and that leads to more infections.

Read the rest of the open letter over at Black Celeb Kids.

Megalyn Echikunwoke in a little black dress attended Barack Obama's "Black & White" gala last week. Don't you love Megalyn's wrap dress? Well I did some digging around for her look for less...

GRAB MEGALYN'S GALA LOOK...
1. Generra black jersey wrap front empire dress, BLUEFLY.COM
2. faux leather clutch, AMICIACCESSORIES.COM.
3.faux leather repitle skin platform, FOREVER21.COM
4. Wood/metal bangle GIRLPROPS.COM.
5. ruffle edge black knit poncho shawl, AMAZON.COM.

Photo credits: WIREIMAGE, VARIETY via The Black Hollywood Files.

Estelle recently debut her latest music video for "Pretty Please." The video is loaded with cameos from Aubrey O'Day, Jackie Long, and Taraji P. Henson. Check it out...

Damn, Jackie, lol! Estelle may have her eyes on this certain someone.

For those FG2BH readers within the tri-state area, do come out to the Apollo theater to support the 2008 Beyond The Tears: Humanitarian Awards!

Via the press release:

The 2008 Beyond The Tears Humanitarian Awards honorees includes; Princess Florence Ita Giwa of Nigeria's Bakassi Peninsular, celebrated R&B music icon and HIV/AIDS activist Patti Labelle, Chief Owelle Rochas Okorocha, President/ Founder Rochas Foundation and President of Red Cross Nigeria, Regan Hofmann, Editor-in-Chief of Poz Magazine, youth activist Ravin Lopez and Kengwa Kapampa of the African Health Care Foundation Zambia. The event will be hosted by Nollywood movie stars Stephanie Okereke, Francis Duru, Ini Edo and fashion model Nnenna Agba - made popular by America's Next Top Model.

Special guests include Excellencies Maureen Mwanawasa, First Lady of Zambia and Patience Good Luck Jonathan, Second Lady of Nigeria. Also expected are Nollywood Actors Nkem Owoh (Osuofia), RMD, Zeb Ejiro, Okurame Ejiro, and others.

Heating up the Apollo stage will be live performances by Nollywood actress and singer Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as “Mama G", R&B and Jazz vocalist Alyson Williams, actor and singer William Erickson, Nigerian-American singer Kolourz, critically acclaimed, nationally syndicated radio producer/host and singer Angela McKenzie, and Nigerian comedian Jude Away Away. Following the awards presentation will be a special after party. [CONTINUE READING...]

Tickets - $25 to $50 via The Apollo box office at (212) 531-5305, and TICKETMASTER.COM

Thoughts/rants:
So the other day while rearranging my CD collection, I stumbled across my copy of Brian McKnight's "Anytime" record. Hard to believe this record is 10 years old. I thought I'll share with you all my FAVORITE track from this album...press play to check it out.

Doesn't this sound just make you want to daydream about that special someone?!

I simply love this MJ GIF made by a devoted ONTD member, don't you agree?

As you know I'm a HUGE romance novel reader. I couldn't put up Altonya Washington's latest novel, "Rival's Desire." Caesar and Vivian were constantly at one another's throats. It's a good end of the summer read!

disclaimer: all of my thoughts/rants are meant in good humor!

Two Nigerian couples close to my heart recently celebrated their one year wedding anniversaries! Congrats to Uchechi and Udo!

Congrats to Tochukwu & Carol!

Here's to many, many, MANY more!

Photo credits: ECHINWE

Afro/Naija News:

This is why it paids to be the daughter of Nigeria's official billionaire businessman! [Bella Naija]
This Nigerian man admits he has 86 wives! [The Activist]
Learn how to curl your hair correctly. [Expand ur Hair-Izon]
Check out the runway looks at Joburg's Fashion Week. [Ladybrille]
I'm tempted to join this Naija networking site...just to read the ongoing discussion of being African-American/Nigerian. Check it out! [Naija Crowd]
Oluchi has a cover gig on "POP" magazine. [Fashion Orgasm]
Barack Obama picks Joe Biden as his VP running mate. [Concrete Loop]
OMG! Maxwell's going on tour! [Quick's Catch-Up]

NEWSSTAND APPEAL

2008-08-07T09:24:00.004+01:00

Notable Africans and Nigerians are featured on the latest magazine covers...

First up is the talented Naija actress Dakore Egubson on the Summer 2008 cover of "MIMI" magazine. Dakore told the African publication that she plans to produce movies and television shows.

Be sure to vist Dakore's official site - DAKORE.COM! Many thanks to Mimi magazine for sending over this cover to FG2BH!

Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are the newsstand starlets. Michelle has a cover gig on "Ebony" magazine then she joins her husband and children for a cover spot on "Essence" magazine. According to WWD, the Obamas has even more Fall 2008 newsstand press.

Bossip has the scoop on Michelle's Ebony interview:

On her style…
“I do think what you wear is a reflection of who you are. I love to look glamorous when there’s a wonderful, purposeful event that is appropriate. But when I’m in Iowa campaigning with the girls, I am in Gap shorts and a T- shirt.”

On being a mom…
“My first job in all honesty is going to continue to be mom-in-chief,” she says, “making sure that in this transition, which will be even more of a transition for the girls…that they are settled and that they know they will continue to be the center of our universe.”

On being married to Barack…
“Barack and I—as partners, as friends and as lovers—we accessorize each other in many ways,” she said. “The best thing I love having on me is Barack on my arm and vice versa, whether it’s having him standing there smiling at me, or watching him mesmerize a crowd or talk to some seniors in a senior center.”

Photo credits: Ebony. Essence. Pop-Junkie.

Tyra Banks took her appreciation for the Obamas by dressing up as Michelle for the September 2008 fashion edition of "Harper's Bazaar" magazine.

The glossy photo session has Tyra at home with a fictional Barack, in the Oval Office with fictional daughters Malia and Sasha, celebrating a victory, and reading a children's book to kids. The irony - Michelle's not as paparazzi loving as Tyra. Brigitte from Make Fetch Happen has the cover photos of Tyra's HB gig. Favored Fashion Fix has a must-see behind the scenes clip taken from the photo session.

Photo credits: CL. Alexi Lubomirski for Harper's Bazaar

Site to visit: 5 Pt Mag.com

Isn't this FG2BH feature long overdue?! Ebby Agu's "5 Point Magazine" has been in business since December 2007. Each issue includes fashion tidbits, photography, interviews, a blog spot, and interactive forums from the editor's point of view. FYI: The editor (a childhood friend of mine's) has a great eye for photography. Check out his online photo album for further evidence.

http://5pointmagazine.com/

Click on the screenshot to access the dope Naija-produced blogazine!

My uninhibited rants & thoughts:
So I spent the afternoon in Manhattan with close family relatives fresh from their long plane ride from Dubai. All of us squeezed ourselves onto the overcrowded sidewalks of W 37th street window shopping and sightseeing when all of a sudden a shop owner stops us with a classic question - "Are you guys Nigerian?" Before I could utter a response on the behalf of my group - the shop owner continues with his questions. "Let guess you're from Lagos? Abuja? Port Hartcourt? Right?" Now the non-African/Nigerian man has on all of our attention. We take a look at his window display to be amazed by the custom made dresses and skirt suits. Apparently his core customer base is Nigerians. Pressed for time as his store wasn't our destination shop, he pass along his business card. Effetto Fashion Inc. 18 West 37th Street Give his business a look/see when you're in town!

Anyone interested to see the incoming talents at this year's American Black Film Festival? I know I am...

August 7-10 in L.A ABFF.COM!

So funny story the other night with my TV included Boris Kodjoe. While channel surfing in between commerical breaks of "Soul Food" (which is on BET J weekdays), I stumbled into Boris -again- on BET via "Madea's Family Reunion." Oh so rare and funny to see Boris twice on my TV, lol!

Don't you hate when the one thing you're looking for is right in front of your face??? AHHHH!

disclaimer: all thoughts are meant in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Boris Kodjoe laments about family life and his female fans to Essence magazine.
Ladybrille secures another successful interview - this time with Project Runway Korto Momolu.
Per Mrs. Grapevine, Solange Knowles has this style piece in common with Lauren London.
Kadi from Head Over Heels has the catwalk skills Oluchi, Liya Kebede, and Alek Wek put on during the 3rd Annual Africa Rising concert in D.C.
Oluchi, Naomi and Jourdan are on the cover of POP magazine...according to Brigitte's Make Fetch Happen.
Get to know more about rising African model Bridgette Amofah over at Mimi's blogspot.

That's all folks!

STYLE TIDBITS WITH NNENNA, ESTELLE AND FATIMA

2008-07-24T04:24:00.007+01:00

Cate Blanchett and Nnenna were seen in this Jil Sander silk chiffon S/S 2008 dress.

A then pregnant Cate attended the Sydney premiere of her film "Elizabeth: The Golden Age" back in March while Nnenna wore the same dress for a recent fashion magazine spread.

This fashion faceoff may seem as slightly unfair because Nnenna wore her dress for a photoshoot whereas Cate wore her look at red carpet event. I couldn't resisted matching up Nnenna with Cate's look.

Online Surveys & Market Research

The Jil Sander Spring 2008 dress in question:

Photo credits: Just Jared. Nnenna's myspace

Estelle jumped right on the latest shoe trend when she attended the latest "Indiana Jones" film premiere in a pair of bronze Yves Saint Laurent Tribute platform sandals. Golden Brooks, Jenny McCarthy and Keri Hilson were all seen in this fashion forward footwear.

Shortly after, I noticed this particular shoe a whole lot on the red carpet. Case in point, Kelly Rowland, Heidi Klum, an Olsen twin, Mariah Carey, and two Danity Kane members all wore this popular shoe:

That YSL price tag ($770) is sort of steep, so try this Steven Madden Aileenn shoe for $99.95!!

ONTD posted up these recent photos of Fatima Siad...

Fatima best known for being a Cycle 10 finalist on "America's Next Top Model." As you can tell from the photos, Fatima switch up her hair from long to short. Check out loads of Fatima's fashion photos over at ALL-ANTM.NET.

Photo credits: Shameer Khan/DN Photography

Keeping Up with The Obamas.

photo credits: AP Photo. PEOPLE.COM

The Obama Family on the August 4th cover of "People" magazine. [BlackCelebrityKids]
And here's the entire "People" interview. [People]
Check out the many magazine covers Barack has done so far. [Tycooning 101]
Michelle Obama joins the blogging community. [BlogHer]
Get inside Barack's thoughts! [Twitter]
Barack's overseas. [Black Voices Blog]

Rants/thoughts:
1. I cannot get enough of this Lauryn Hill track. Press play:

2. Jess from Genuine Imitation wants a "Waiting to Exhale" sequel...and I couldn't agree more! I always hope that movie would be turn into a TV series but then "Girlfriend" and "Soul Food" came along to answer my wish. Speaking of TV, what's up with all the drama in "The Hills" season 4 trailer???

Music Videos

MTV Shows

Entertainment News

3. My blog, Urban-Hoopla, got a fab mention on "The Best of Black Blogs" via Tocarra's Vogue Italia magazine appearance.
Toccara Rocks Vogue

"Get it Toccara. Vogue? Now dats what's up. No other blog covered this but they wanna cover that Eva Pigford b&#$% who ain't ever been inside a reputable magazine and ain't really doing s@^%. Now this is sexy right here." By Tyrone Biggums on Urban Hoopla

Blog for Blog features the best user comments from around the Web. We search through the best black blogs and other great sites to bring you the hottest one-liners about African-American celebrity gossip and important social issues.

Thanks to Black Voices Blog, Tyrone, and Jawn Murray!

UPDATE: Check out these two snapshots of Alek Wek and Iman from "Vogue Italia"....

Be sure to visit JEZEBEL for additional photos from "Vogue Italia"!

4. Wendy Williams finally got back on TV. I met Wendy during her last book press tour and I have to say she's tall and witty. Check out her interviews with Vivica A Fox and Omarosa:

Watch Vivica talk about her ex 50 Cent...again. I love Wendy's Nicole Miller dress...and Vivica's red Herve Leger dress. Hmm...that dress like the one Oluchi wore earlier this month.
Watch Omarosa clip here (Wendy and Omarosa argue...and I am grateful for REDLASSO.)

disclaimer: all rants/thoughts are in good humor!
Afro/Naija links:
1. Djimon Hounsou lands a role as Thulsa Doom. [It's All Reel]
2. Ebbe Bassey on Nollywood and more film projects. [Ladybrille]
3. Vogue Italia All-Black Issue has to be printed due to high demand. [Hip Candy]
4. Keep Up with CNN coverage on "Black In America". [What About Our Daughters]
5. Lola Ogunnaike looks fab in purple. [NSC Fashion Network]
6. Get to know Bernos, a Ethiopia-based tee-shirt line. [I Like Her Style]

CELESTINA SPOTTED IN ROBIN THICKE'S MAGIC VIDEO

2008-07-19T02:13:00.011+01:00

Celestina Aladekoba who I interviewed last November has a cameo in Robin Thicke's "Magic" music video. She's the girl with the black and pink outfit. Celestina's definitely on her grind as she danced with Prince, Usher, 50 Cent and now Robin Thicke!

Robin Thicke's "Magic" video

behind-the-scenes clip

Akon worked with Nelly and Ashanti on the single, "Body On Me." The song is featured on Nelly's "Brass Knuckles" album and Ashanti's record "The Declaration." Benny Boom directed the video treatment at the Red Rock Casino, Resort, & Spa in Las Vegas. (Thanks Rap-Up!)

Now that you saw the video, check out this sneak preview that aired on MTV:

[official video link]

This past week photos taken from the video set leaked online. The exclusive snapshots were taken by Erik Kabik Photography. Thanks ASHANTIDAILY!

Alright you saw both music videos, which one did you like? I prefer Robin's "Magic" over Akon's "Body On Me" track. Why? I can't get that melody out of my head (copyright Kylie!)

One-name wonders Iman and Sade were ranked as two of the top 20 Sexiest Black Women over 40 according to Black Voices Blog. Iman came in at # 19 and Sade's #16! (Angela Bassett was #1 followed by Halle Berry.)

19. Iman
Millionaire model and entrepreneur Iman remains seductive and glamorous at 52. A pioneer as an African fashion icon, Iman carries the torch today by speaking out for equality for newer black models. She's got her game on lock, and nothing is more sexy than power.

16. Sade
Singer Sade has been beloved for her intoxicating voice and elegant style for many years. A child of two continents, her background lent an exotic ambiance to songs like 'Smooth Operator' and 'Sweetest Taboo,' making them totally authentic -- and incredibly sexy. At 49, she's still got it.

I couldn't agree more with the list. While you and I are on the topic of Miss Sade, I think I speak for all her fans when I say - DO COME BACK TO MUSIC!

Photo credits: GOOGLE IMAGES. GETTY IMAGES

Djimon Hounsou supported girlfriend Kimora Lee Simmons' Fabulosity for JCPenney launch.

I think I speak for many when I say damn Kimora, just damn! I say this just from outside looking in. Djimon has stood besides her throughout her divorce and her kids seems to like him. Can we freeze frame on Djimon's salt and pepper beard. -sigh!- Anyhow, I do love her Dolce & Gabbana dress.

Photos: BOSSIP. WIREIMAGE. FILMMAGIC.

If you've been reading this blog, you know how much I love posting up these fun 'got IT better' posts. Liya Kebede may have been onto the Givenchy open-toe booties trend several months prior. The runway model wore this look straight from Givenchy's Spring 2008 collection back in January at 10th Annual amfAR New York Gala. This look has been seen on Rihanna twice.

Due to high demand, the short style of this shoe is sold out! So, anyhow which fashionista has the better style -Liya or Rihanna?

Photo credits: ZIMBIO. GETTY IMAGES. SWAGGER. RIHANNA-FENTY.COM

Rants/thoughts:
Planning any wedding is hard and time consuming but planning a Nigerian wedding is a trip! I'm not the one getting married but I sure feel like I am, lol! From making your outfit from the lace to last minute arrangements... oh my goodness! One more month to go! Maybe I posted up photos from the wedding on here because you and I know that the fun part is the actual wedding reception. I cannot wait to see the cultural dance groups and of course the fight for the bride's flowers.

Can you believe I'm apart of the blogging community for 2 years in just two days???
disclaimer: all thoughts in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

Estelle's blog spot hasn't been updated in a minute. [Estelle's Blog]
Get to know Sudan's Atong Ajork. [Ladybrille]
This blog cures your big feet dilemmas. [My Lovely Big Feet]
More scoops on that Givenchy shoe trend. [Urban-Hoopla]

UPDATES ON NNENNA, OVIE, AND SOPHIE

2008-07-13T02:26:00.007+01:00

Nnenna Agba from "America's Next Top Model" Cycle 6 was seen at the 2nd Annual Illusions Cosmetics "Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine" last month. Nnenna covered the event with ZAIN - a leading mobile telecommunications company.

You gotta love Nnenna in those True Religion jeans...and her fierce hair cut!

Photos: PR Photos/EXPOSAY.COM

Long after Nnenna famously cut off her hair on "ANTM", she still maintains her low-cut hairstyle. The bald/buzz hair definitely fits Nnnena, don't you agree??? If you can't remember when Nnenna had hair, don't worry I got you covered...

Photos: THE CW/ANTMC6 BLOG

Not too long ago, Nnenna updated her myspace photo album with these fun photos taken from a Paris magazine July 2008 photo session. No the name of the magazine isn't "Paris" nor is it "Sring" apparently. All I do know is that photography was done by Stephane Gizard:

Nnenna rocked a few couture pieces and yummy shoes from Jil Sander Spring/Summer 2008 ready to wear collection. Anyhow, check out a few of Nnenna's looks straight from Jil Sander Spring 2008 ready to wear collection. Thanks Elle!

Summer is almost over. August is quickly creeping up and winter would be here all over again. Speaking of which, find out the latest Fall 2008 trends to have in your closet here.

Photos: Nnenna's myspace, ELLE.COM, Stephane Gizard

Ovie Mughelli was picked as one of Essence magazine's "Do Right Men 2008". Check out the behind the scenes video here and the shirtless photo of Ovie below...

That one was for Wienna! Check out Ovie's biography as credited on OVIE MUGHELLI'S DO RIGHT MAN 2008 PAGE:

OVIE MUGHELLI,28
HOME BASE: Atlanta
PROFESSION:Atlanta Falcons fullback
DOING RIGHT:When he’s not blocking defenders on the field, Mughelli helps 150 boys and girls win at life. His Ovie Mughelli Foundation uses summer football camps as a platform to support nutrition, education and health initiatives. “I wanted to impress upon these kids that working hard pays off, and I wanted to make sure other kids have what I did not.”
WHY HE LOVES BLACK WOMEN:“I love everything, from the fullness of their lips to the curves of their body.”
ROMANTIC MOVES:He’ll trade his playbook for a cookbook and work hard to captivate with five courses.
HERO:“Kess, my older sister. She’s like a second mother to me. As a doctor, she had to work so hard to get to where she is today and she always believed in me.”
MOTTO:“You are not your own. Any greatness you achieve you did not accomplish on your own. It’s your -responsibility to do what you can to bless someone else.”
E-MAIL OVIE: dorightovie@essence.com

So you read his bio, now vote for Ovie here!

Black Voices Blog recently revealed the first preview taken from Sophie Okonedo's upcoming film, "The Secret Life of Bees."

So I did a quick Google search to find out more about Sophie's film. She is Unique has additional details on the film. Check out the article as written by Wilson Moracles for AOL Black Voices Blog:

If you are looking to be among the first people to 'The Secret Life of Bees', which stars Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning, Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, and Sophie Okonedo, you will have to get a ticket at the Toronto Film Festival, where it will make its world premiere.

Also featured in the film are Tristan Wilds, Nate Parker, Paul Bettany, and Hilarie Burton.

The festival will run from September 4 through September 13. Also showing there will be Spike Lee's 'Miracle at St. Anna', and Guy Ritchie's 'RocknRolla' with Idris Elba and Thandie Newton.

Directed by Gina Prince Bythewood, the film is based on a 2002 bestselling novel by American author Sue Monk Kidd.

Set in South Carolina in 1964, story centers on Lily Owens (Fanning), who escapes her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father by running away with her caregiver and only friend (Hudson) to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother's past.Latifah, Okonedo and Keys play the three sisters. [BBV]

side note: Idris and Thandie in the same movie TOGETHER? In the words of Ashanti, "Yo, that bananas!"

"The Secret Life of Bees" trailer:

With that all-star cast, you can't go wrong. Hopefully JHud, Alicia or Queen contributed a song or two to the film's soundtrack. Anyhow the book was fabulous so I cannot wait to see how the movie turns out.

Rants/thoughts:
Ever gone to one Naija party and get tired of the same process over and over again? For instance, you sometimes feel the party/event is a repeat of what happened at the last. What happens when you're not tired of it but the folks throwing the occasion does! What do you do? Do you leave the party early or do you stay?

disclaimer: all rants/thoughts in good humor!

Afro/Naija news:

Snag denim for every figure! [Your Style Star]

Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson share a red carpet for charity. [Head Over Heels]

Check out behind the scenes info on the recent This Day event. [THIS DAY]

Akon joins Ashanti and Nelly on "Body On Me" video set. [Urban-Hoopla]

Sanaa Lathan calls boyfriend Wale her African prince. [Black Voices Blog]

Miss Universe 2008 dress rehearsals [Seattle PI]

And I'll leave you all with this Amy Winehouse jazzy-soul song that I absolutely enjoy. "Tears Dry On Their Own" samples my favorite Marvin Gaye-Tammi Terrell's 1967 Motown classic hit "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" which I placed under the video:

Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Okay I couldn't resist adding this verison from "Sister Act 2"...

Props to Ashford & Simpson! ;-)

BOOK TO KNOW: SHAKARA, DANCE-HALL QUEEN

2008-07-12T23:57:00.002+01:00

Since I last updated, I've been busy reading Tess Onwueme's novel, "Shakara: Dance-Hall Queen." Needless to say I have to make this fabulous Naija literature FG2BH's "Book To Know." "Shakara: Dance-Hall Queen" can be purchased on the African Heritage Press website for $14.95.

Shakara: Dance-Hall Queen summary:

Shakara dance-hall queen is a gripping drama on the struggle for identity, power and control, engulfing mothers and daughters in a modern city that is sharply split between the rich and the poor. How do these mothers and daughters cope in a world, where their very survival is constantly challenged by the unyielding social and economic forces?

For those in the UK, "Shakara: Dance-Hall Queen" was featured on BBC World Drama Service international broadcast for the fall season of 2004. Check out more details about the broadcast here. So if you're just as interested in reading novels about Nigeria, do get to know the author by visiting this site.

Photos: African Heritage Press

Feels Good 2 B Home

Barack Obama: Inauguration 2009

Celestina Featured in T-Pain's "Freeze" Music Video

Here's To A Great 2009!

Get "Obsessed" with Idris Elba

Striking Looks from Kate Henshaw, Samantha Mumba & Liya Kebede

Project Runway's Korto Momolu To Debut Collection

"Arab Money" Naija Version + Against The Odds Book Launch

News on Barack, Chasity & Estelle

Carmen Ejogo at "Cadillac Records" Premiere + Tidbits

Afro/Naija News Catch-Up

Updates on Oluchi & Barack

Seal & Heidi at VS Fashion Show 2008

Iman at Keep A Child Alive Black Ball 2008

Liya Kebede Out & About + My Bag Crush

Lola Ogunnaike’s “Glamour” Look in NYC

Spotted: 2Face Idibia & Estelle + Djimon & Kimora

R.I.P. Miriam Makeba

American Idol Finalist Chikezie's Elle Feature

2008 MTV Europe Music Awards + Fatima's "Modelville" Ep. 3 Recap

Blogroll Reaction towards President-Elect Obama

Seal Remakes Otis Redding Classic + Barack's Elected President

Got "it" Better - Iman or Lindsay?

Seal & Heidi's NYC Stroll

Carmen Ejogo at "007" London Premiere + Updates on Akon & Boris

Got IT Better - Thandie or Emma?

Djimon & Kimora at STK + News

Estelle - "Come Over (Remix)" Video

FATIMA SIAD'S ESSENCE MAG SHOOT

FEYISAYO - COSMO'S RHODE ISLAND 2008

LOOK OUT FOR LEMAR THIS NOVEMBER

SEAL REMAKES SAM COOKE'S CLASSIC

MIRIAM MAKEBA - "PATA PATA" VIDEO FLASHBACK

NIGERIA TURNS 48 - HAPPY INDEPENDENCE!

SOPHIE OKONEDO CHATS WITH EBONY

MICHELLE OBAMA IN THAKOON...AGAIN!

SANAA LATHAN TALKS TO "JEWEL" ABOUT WALE

AFRIK ELEGANCE 2008 IN NYC

NGO & BORIS GOT SWAGGER + SKIN BLEACHING

NAIJA INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE NYC 2008

FILM SWAGGER - SOPHIE & IDRIS

BLACK MODELS ON SPRING 2009 CATWALK

ESTELLE & DJIMON SUPPORTS CK'S 40TH BASH

THANDIE'S EVERYWHERE!

ALL ABOUT SOPHIE'S BEES

LIYA KEBEDE'S TIFFANY & CO. PRINT AD

LIVE BLOG: THE DIASPORAN STAR

IDRIS & THANDIE AT 'ROCKNROLLA' LONDON PREMIERE

BARACK'S HISTORIC SPEECH AT DNC

OSI'S OUT & MICHELLE O AT DNC

NAIJAS AT BEIJING 2008 PLUS ESTELLE'S PRETTY PLEASE VIDEO

NEWSSTAND APPEAL

STYLE TIDBITS WITH NNENNA, ESTELLE AND FATIMA

CELESTINA SPOTTED IN ROBIN THICKE'S MAGIC VIDEO

UPDATES ON NNENNA, OVIE, AND SOPHIE

BOOK TO KNOW: SHAKARA, DANCE-HALL QUEEN