Spotted: 2Face Idibia & Estelle + Djimon & Kimora

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!

Djimon & Kimora at STK + News

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 & DJIMON SUPPORTS CK'S 40TH BASH

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!]

CELESTINA SPOTTED IN ROBIN THICKE'S MAGIC VIDEO

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]

VOGUE ITALIAN JULY 2008 FEATURES LIYA KEBEDE

Liya Kebede, one of our favorties here on "FG2BH", graced the historic July 2008 cover issue of "Vogue Italia". You have to love that Gucci dress Liya has on in the photo below...

Featured alongside Liya are Naomi Campbell, Jourdan Dunn, Chanel Iman, Iman, Alek Wek, Veronica Webb, Tyra Banks, Pat Cleveland, Sessilee Lopez, and Karen Alexander.

This epic issue of Italian Vogue will be on newsstands next Tuesday but in the meantime, check out the preview via On The Runway...

Naomi, Sessilee, and Jourdan all got the cover. Would this issue lead to more black models featured in fashion editorials worldwide? Time will only tell...

Photos: Steven Meisel for Italian Vogue

Barack Obama's wife Michelle and Iman attended a private dinner for fashion designer Calvin Klein in New York City.

Both ladies looked fabulous at the event.

Photos: CL/Splash News Online

If you believe the rumor mill, Djimon Hounsou proposed to long-time girlfriend, Kimora Lee Simmons.

Asked if Honsou had given her an engagement ring, Simmons was equally forthcoming – and evasive. "Well, kind of," she said, "not quite."

Once inside the party, Simmons explained their attendance by saying, "My honey created a bracelet last year, and we're here for [the orphans' charity] SOS Children, and we're really good friends and supporters of Cartier and their charitable initiatives."

Besides, she said, "It seemed like a great time to have fun and see lots of friends." And, with a good cause involved , too boot, "there's nothing better than that."

Check out Djimon and Kimora at the third annual Loveday celebration and Cartier Love Charity Bracelet launch last night. Keep your eyes on that 'ring' Kimora has on.

So maybe that's 'the' engagement ring on Djimon's ring, huh?

Photos: WIREIMAGE/GETTY IMAGES


During these past three days, Estelle was one busy girl in New York City. In support of her current album, "Shine", Estelle was on the party circuit.

She was first seen at Rihanna's "Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded" album release party. At this event, Estelle took photos with LeToya Luckett (sort of) and her Homeschool Records boss John Legend. NBA star Emeka Okafor was spotted at the event...

Then she was seen with John Legend again at Alicia Keys' "As I Am" tour wrap party last night. Judging from the photos, the twosome had a great time together...

Estelle wrapped up her promo grind with a quick performance at "SELF" magazine's Rock Bodies bash.

I love those peep-toe Yves Saint Laurent tribute pumps Estelle wore with her Afrocentric dress. Did you know those pumps are a fan favorite with Janet Jackson...

Photos: WIREIMAGE/GETTY IMAGES

Celebrating June being Black Music Month, check out this Naija remix to Rihanna's hit, "Umbrella"...

Not bad, huh?

STYLE SPOTLIGHT ON IMAN, ESTELLE AND ALEK WEK

Thanks to the good folks over at Style Watch, FG2BH has another 'got IT better' edition between Iman and Natalie Portman....

Photos: WIREIMAGE/GETTY IMAGES

Iman first wore this purple Lavin Spring 2008 ruffled dress to Barneys New York's Night Of Stars pre-party celebration.

Natalie Portman was recently seen in a similar dress at the "Blindness" opening night dinner at 61st International Cannes Film Festival.

SO, who got IT better: Iman or Natalie Portman? Vote/discuss...

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Credit: Style Watch

Estelle also have a foot fetish with these bronze Yves Saint Laurent tribute sandals. The "American Boy" hit maker was seen in these shoes TWICE...

I guess once a girl loves a style piece, it's hard to break away from it - just ask MJB, Danity Kane, Mariah, and Kelly Rowland. Don't act you fashionistas can't part with one fashion-forward piece in your wardrobe!

Estelle performed on "American Boy" on "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson".

Alek Wek appeared on the cover of "Surface" magazine - issue 72. I saw this over the weekend at my local Barnes & Noble. The magazine may be outdated or new but this is my first time seeing the cover so I scanned it for FG2BH readers...

Rants:
1. How long would it take for Naijas to have their own community? During my time in The Bronx, I woke up every morning in the Summer to a Hispanic-related community event. They would have parades and even their Church would have a festival! How about our own Naijas do the same?? Maybe I'm not living in the 'right' community but some of the Naijas I know enjoy their pride far too much to live next door to one another. These are the very people who enjoy attending a party for FREE than have their kids be friends with one another! (Things that make me go hmmm...)
2. Why is it SO hard to find a great and loyal seamtress that know how to make African traditional garments??!!


Disclaimer: rants are all in good humor!

Afro/Naija News:

• Flicks from Osi Umenyiora's Black Tie Affair in ATL [Necole Bitchie]
  
  
• Estelle performs "American Boy" for Craig Ferguson [Toya's World]
  
  
• Learn how to incorporate "Welcome To Naija" in your everyday lifestyle.
[Ladybrille]


• Check out the latest happenings in Angola. [Cangue]
  
  
• Check out this Covergirl AD featuring Fatima from ANTM Cycle 10. [Ebony Intuition]
  
  
• Read up on African Chew Stick [Remembering Ancient Knowledge]
  
  
• Check out the very best "Human Hair" extensions. [Hair By Azara]
  
  
• Basketmouth is now a proud father! [Linda Ikeji]
  
  
• Check out SoupASexy's Journal
[SoupASexy]


• Seven Global interviews Celestina Aladekoba about her cameon on "The Game". [Seven Global]
  
  
• Iman doesn't want black models to be caricatures [NY MAG]
  
  

In better late than never news, I'll leave you all with photos taken at this year's MET Costume gala. Djimon Hounsou, Liya Kebede, Thandie Newton and Iman were all there...

EDIT: The photobucket slide show isn't working so I made this instead...

Photos: STYLE.COM/WIREIMAGE

Style rundown: Iman in Dolce & Gabbana and Fred Leighton jewels.
Djimon Hounsou in Tom Ford.
Liya Kebede in Jonathan Saunders.
Thandie Newton in Chanel.

Who got their red carpet looks right and who didn't?

Thanks for all the e-mails/comments about my lack of posting. Hopefully, this week I can post one blog post a day. -Crosses fingers-