OI-YOOOOOI!

Hey folks! I know, I know... It's been a while for the blog updates, lets just say these past two months have been busy and the most overwhelming for 2009. SERIOUSLY! Been finding my feet in various places I'm working, meeting different people and organisations. I've realised I still have a way to go put through all these trials I've been through, has helped me train my mind, become a bit of self-disciplined (trust me, takes time) to form my MASTER PLAN. Will not reveal too much but it's in my reach and it may help me reach further. Just fits like a puzzle really and I'm looking forward to the new year.

All in all 2009 has been a year of challenge, disappointment, and opportunities. The key word really is OVERWHELMING and I feel I have grown, still more to do - you learn new things all the time and you SOOOO should not take that for granted. I can definitely say I have become, more resilient and determined with any knock backs. Can be frustrating and you feel you're going nowhere, but it makes me so much determined... To be honest, I secretly get a buzz out of it...I KNOW NUTS RIGHT?!

Well, I already know what I want career-wise, but really and mostly, I want to enjoy my life in the healthiest and richest form... as in not necessarily financially but just happiness. Eat more healthy, maybe take up my favourite sports more often i.e yoga, badminton and even boxing to channel out the tough days.

Bring on 2010! Going church, then PJ party! What are your plans?? Whatever it is, stay safe, praise and wish you well.

*HAPPY NEW YEAAAAARRR!*

MELEKA 'GO' ...You go?

Hey ya'll!!
Back from the busy world of work! I would just like to support a lovely young lady who entered the HUGO URBAN RULES last year and won! Meleka is the UK’s brightest and hottest new talent with her debut single ‘Go’ currently causing a storm across radio waves and dancefloors across the UK and online.

Once you hear Meleka's fresh, irresistible vocals and her passionate song writing ability you'll understand why others are referring to her as a cross between Brandy and a young Ella Fitzgerald.

“Go” will be released on Mon 26th Oct and will feature remixes including a 'refix' from Booda Bassline, and additional mixes from Diamond ft Tinie Tempah, and Doug McCourt. The video for ‘Go’ was directed by Ben Jones who started directing three years ago and was signed to Partizan films. He is now represented for Music videos by Davey Inc and previous work includes videos for The Streets, Lily Allen, Oasis and Example.

I personally wish her all the best, such a fresh talent with what I think a bright future ahead of her. Hope she becomes one of the pioneer vocalists of the funky house as it's increasingly growing.

Checkout the dramatic video. BOYS! Take note... THIS.IS.WHAT.HAPPENS.WHEN.YOU.MESS.AROUND.WITH.GOOD.GIRLS...
GOOD.GIRLS.CAN.BE.BAD.TOO ;-p

Memoirs of a London Sket - Rochelle, Rochelle...

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Nia Long flossing it!

Heya! After the drama with my laptop, I think all is well.
Anyhoo's, I don't normally blog on fashion but I had to mention something about this dress that Nia Long wore to Chris Rock's 'Good Hair' film/documentary premier. I must say I think it's an outfit I would definitely rock... loves it!Doesn't Nia Long done the outfit justice??? This piece is by designer Nioja McKenzie. I really, really want it and the shoes... maaaarvellous! If only I had a few more £0000 in my account, I'd be flossing ish like this! Go NIA another beautiful and underrated one!

DRIVING IS A NIGHTMARE...Don't think like it anymore

Had to fuel this out in someway but I'm in such a reflective state right now that I'm starting to be a bit resentful. Resenting having my car. I know this is not a good look but everybody has bad days or nights right? I was meant to go celebrate a b'day with a friend amongst other friends at Abacus last night I probably missed out on one of the best nights out and I was really looking forward to it...

HOWEVER, my night was doomed by lack of parking. Yes, lack of parking. I was literally driving around the whole City of London borough for one hour. I REPEAT...1 HOUR! I'm still upset that I wasn't there celebrate and spoke to the b'day girl herself and she told me the night was a blast. I am sooooo gutted. All because I wanted to drive! Believe me driving is great, in your own space blah-de-blah, you're independent you don't have to worry about getting lifts from people. Then again, being too independent can backfire. I should've asked one of the girls if I could get in the car and that would've been a different situation. I would've been there!

I don't think I will drive for a while, it's wearing me out. I think I should take transport for a bit...

Oh no, my computer is about to be eaten alive! Gotta go...

Questlove's mini-me

Aww this boy is adorable! He's only 4 years old! This little talent is drumming to Kings Of Leon's 'Notion' ahhhh... I swear when I have a baby boy he is gonna be trained to drum, I SWEEEAAAR DOOOOWN! There's nothing else I can say...the video says it all. Bless him picking his nose while drumming, serious skills.

I beg, I beg, I beg-oooh check this link! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edxwSjSAQTU
I think Questlove needs watch out, lol.

ONE.

50p's Law :)

Hmmm... I've heard plenty hype about the author Robert Greene's previous books 49th, 48th etc... and I must admit I was very cynical about this. Assuming that his theories were kind of brainwashing but really - it's not about that. It's simply demanding power in whatever you do. Since I've seen a few twitters and mentions of the is book relating to 50p (yes 50p thats what I call him) I decided to make a nice decent purchase on Amazon, £7.50 bredren!

The most powerful things I have picked upfrom this book is it actually doesn't matter what background, colour or gender you are there's really no reason why you can't get to your goals. The only way you can reach your goals is through your ambition. I will admit, 50p is not exactly on my playlist at the mo well a couple of songs but, this man has been through hell and back. Thats what I respect about him, nothing has stopped him! There are times when he feels low, but I gather what pushes him is that you can't settle for less AND lets not forget the man got shot 9 TIMES!

I recommend the book, it's really a good read. I know people are put off because it looks like a bible...a bible shouldn't even scare you anyway! TUT! Honestly, Robert Greene puts 50p's experiences into perspective and I guess for someone like me who has an ambitious mindset, it re-highlights for me an alternative way of thinking. Simply an EYE OPENER!

Have a read, don't be SCURRED :)

GHANA MUST NOT GO!

Heya peeps, just a quick one to end the day. I wanted to share with you a fantastic advert I saw this evening whilst watching the X Factor auditions. Cadbury's have made another 'Glass and a Half Full Productions' campaign. LOVES IT... Really and truly, it represents where I come from GHANA! I think it's about time different cultures were represented on our TV screens plus, the amount of Cocoa Ghana produces is to a great extent that farmers don't often see a penny. Who knows if some do or don't but the underlying messages it's saying to support Fairtrade.



Well I hope Fairtrade do as it says on the tin. I pretty much have a confident idea who the ad agency for this one is. Like the fact they are celebrating Ghana, is and widely known to produce fine African music in our culture. Looks like something I can consult for them if they continue to promote Ghanaian artists eh? I know quite a few!

Have a look! Don't let the tribal head or skank scare ya!

JAY-Z: BP3 Review

The time has finally come Mr Jigga, Hova or whatever he like to call himself to plaster the world his new creation. I must admit, I have been very excited about this release as there was a possiblility that this album may be a... FLOP! The marketing campaign has been crazy, first the Rhapsody ad and then 'The Making of The BP3 album cover' NUTS! You know you are major when people are creating crazy concepts for your next release. LOVES IT!

To cut to the chase my favourite track is 'Empire State of Mind' such a big tune! Makes you want to jump on the plane to NYC. NOT JUMP ON THE STAGE @ the VMA's - Lil' Mama is not my style. Who flipping asked her? Jay had a face like he smelt something bad, ha! PRICELESS COMEDY! Alicia Keys was the perfect feature for this track. Other favourite tracks include - 'Off That' ft. Drake (good club/car banger), 'Already Home' ft.Kid Cudi, 'Venus vs. Mars' (Beat is siiiiiiick - I LOVE TIMBO!), 'Hate' ft. K Weezy and 'Ambitious' ft. Pharrell. Whenever Neptunes and Jay collaborate it always turns out well, there's not one track they've done together thats ever been disappointing. As for K-crazy West, he is still a talented producer and does not disappoint delivering his contributed tracks.



Besides the controversy regarding his association with the Freemasons, I listen to the beats thats what I thrive from. I don't pay attention to lyrics as those close to me know already (when I sing or recite lyrics - I get it so wrooooong).

It's such a shame I'm not at the Roundhouse to see him tonight :( A few individuals are blasting on facebook and twitter that they're there! Maaaayne I wish I was going, unfortunately I couldn't get a ticket due to tickets - SOLD IN 9 MINUTES! Oh well... One day I'll meet him... probably strategise his album when he's 52 or something. To end here's one of my favourite tracks 'Show Me What You Got', pretty surprised Just Blaze didn't get a look in for BP3, one of Hip Hop's favourite producers right?



My verdict - BP3: 8/10

DOES IT TAKE YOU BACK?

U-U-UKKKK! As well as the rising artists that are emerging and becoming stars in their own right, I'm taking you back to 2003. For some reason I thought this song was seriously aaaaages ago but it's not that long. Let me introduce Fallacy and Fusion BIG UP! Where are you these days Fusion, hit me up!



BIG TUNE! I swear I'm breaking my neck to this!

RANDOM ISH!!

My, my... What a mess. Why oh why must a woman in this mental state be made a laughing stock! I must admit I did crack up a little, but after I was disturbed. It's so messed up, but what I'm trying to get at is that there are videos of random 'crack-heads' who need help doing nonsense and it's seen as a 'FUNNY'. If I saw a relative like this it wouldn't be funny so why laugh when it's not our close one? What do you make of this randomness?



Blog ya!

BLUEEEEEY!

Ahh this boy... I tell ya. The UK serious need to watch out. I am definitely a girl's girl all for my sisters 'n all but, it's been a while that the UK have seen a black/mixed raced young male create waves and a buzz in the music circuit. Bluey Robinson is the name the young gentleman goes by... and thats a name I think will stick to mind.

Bluey performed about 5 songs at the Hoxton Bar and Kitcthen last night, funny I went on my own. I hardly do this but to be honest it has it's benefits, I'm quite sociable so I got chatting to a couple of folks there. Actually couldn't be asked to go with anyone, sometimes people are long so I just go and do my own thing. It was such a good turnout, totally packed the place out, saw a few industry folks in there. Even a bunch of lasses came from Hastings to see him. Dedication or what?



Currently looked after Next Selection - Ryan Leslie's company whos expanding his media mogul-self in the UK. His last track for the night was the MJ classic 'Rock With You' which he did justice by with his smooth moves. Seems like a humble guy, with a good head on his shoulders and pretty much enjoys what he does. He has a mad following, various videos on YouTube where he performs around NYC (including the train platforms there) good ploy right?

When I found he wasn't signed I was... 'WTF! A&R's hurry up, whats with the longness?' But you know how the game goes... HOWEVER, I have a feeling I know who'll sign him... I'll wait in time to reveal just whom to confirm I was right. An A&R said to me he has someone up his sleeve but wanted to keep it a surprise. We'll see :)

Please enjoy his debut single 'I Know' on video (good quality right? ) BIG track and very touching live-o. Released on 28th September.

GO GET IT, SUPPORT UK TALENT!

HIPPITY-HIPPITY-HOP

Ello, ello my fellow bloggers! How's all today, on this blessed Monday morning? Monday mornings are always a hit or miss for me. Have a great attitude, however I just don't like being welcomed by PCN's - Penalty Notice Charge. I did expect it because I accidently drove on the Congestion zone but c'mon not on a Monday morning, at least Wednesday! EVIL I say, EVIL! Anyway, thats my little rant for the morning but I'm blessed.

My sentiment for today is my favourite subject music but genre Hip-Hop. My journey with Hip-Hop has been quite here and until say November 2008. When I heard Q-Tip's 'The Renaissance' was to be released, I was absolutely suprised but I was quite confident that he was going to deliver a fantastic record. The man is a legend, so there was no way that this album was a flop. From that point, the research started kicking in, looked into his previous album 'Amplified' and the renowned 'A Tribe Called Quest' catalogue thats when I remembered the old school tunes like 'Stressed Out', 'Can I Kick It', well the hit singles.

Thats all I knew, I didn't buy albums then - I was too young and listening to Capital Radio too often! This has lead me to work my way backwards of particular Hip-Hop artists in all of forms not just conscious, but includes mainstream (good mainstream) or gangsta rap, and of course alternatives.

I went to an event @ Cargo (Shoreditch) held by Doctor's Orders who usually hold DJ nights playing a whole catalogue of one of my favourite producers - J Dilla. It may sound cliche but he really did make me fall in love with Hip-Hop! Honestly, when I was t that event... I was in some subliminal state, despite the rammedness it was absolutely... there's no word to describe it. Despite J Dilla's death, it was about celebrating his life and the musical genius in him. After that event I went on another research rampage, discovering his sick beats as well as the featured artists I really love the instrumentals the most. My ear really takes to J Dilla's instumentals, particularly the bassline, chord structures and classic samples he experiments with are QUALITY. I'm just glad I have a collection of his catalogue, his work inspires me - I call them Hip-Hop's jewels forget flipping Flo Rida. The irony is his album is called 'R.O.O.T.S' what a joke,what the hell is organic about his album!?

Dilla's younger brother Illa J and alternative producer on Warp Records Flying Lotus share similar composition styles as him but his brother is much closer to keep his trilogy. Whereas Flying Lotus has an eccentric and innovative twist to his music, I literally can't put it in any category. Let's just say the main charactersitics with all of them are jazz and syncapated rhythms.

Hip Hop is not always agressive, not always too masculine, not always degrading. Many are true talk, intellectual, articulate and chilled out. Have a listen to my Spotify playlist, you'll love it, for those who are open-minded - http://open.spotify.com/user/aries84/playlist/7qHYKNQ5kkc5rDQ3Dl52SH

So many artists like Jean Grae, UNDERRATED... Talib Kweli, UNDERRATED... HI-TEK, UNDERRATED... Stacey Epps... UNDERRATED I could go on but this is what I call GOOD MUSIC, trust me. Which is why I want to start DJ-ing, most bate places don't play the tunes I want to hear and it gets boring. So watch out folks before you know it, I may have a debut event... FIRST I need to buy me some decks and practise!

In the meantime enjoy this by Illa J -'Timeless'.

My chale bloggers, LATER!

The mini journey of... FRUSTRATION

Yep, I'm there... Frustration mode. I don't have it so bad but you have good days and bad days. I'm trying to network my a** out there to get my face, name and profile out there. I do expect some downfalls, flops, longness, time-wasters and users. However, when the success arrives I will probably forget about these frustrating times. I really enjoy meeting people and talking to them I just need somebody totally understand where I coming from. I see a lot of young people who have no sense of trust, hope or control of their future. Although the government try to convince or promise this and the other but too many have been broken. Or shall we say they don't meet realsitic expectations. Even the work I intend to do I hope that people become inspired and determined to build on a better future for their lives.

To be honest, where I live is not the ideal place however, I make sure that the knowledge and skills I have, I'd want to pass onto the generation younger than me. Yes...I know I'm still young and still learning but I think it's so beneficial when they have a peer or just empathises with their situations I think younger people would be understood more often. This is the reason why I want my message out there for people to hear my calling, what I'm embarking will open doors for young talented people. Also, just showing there is enough opporrtunity in the world can help narrow-minded people expand their horizons.

Some people that live in my estate can't leave the place or step out of E.9 because they fear they'll get "shanked" as that what they called being stabbed or, "can't step to next man's yard". I may sound old but that language is appauling!


This is what frustrates me too, the language/dialect barrier can create people at worlds apart where it shouldn't have to be like that. Not all young people are ASBO's, scary, dumb - a lot are actually intelligent and ambitious I wish more of this was exposed in the media rather than the ASBO rubbish that seems to scare the average old lady. Even I get judged myself - without speaking! One old lady had the audacity to think I was going to steal from her so he clutched onto her bag HARRRD! Take note - I was dressed appropriately. Do I look like I could terrorise somebody? Secondly I couldn't even hurt a fly! Really annoyed me but what else can I do? Hot her up - not a good option.
Do I sound like I'm ranting? Ain't even going to lie, a lot of things I've seen can get frustrating and distract your sense of motivation especially when trying to pitch to people a fantastic idea. Can be quite mentally exhausting I tell ya. Can't wait till my ideas become a reality. As Cassie says "Gotta long way to go".

Blog ya later!
Peace.x

ARIES MUSIC CONSULTANCY

Hello and welcome back! Yep, another blog from your music obsessed girl. I have really begun the grind of running my freelancing services which has been an absolute dream for me, for a very long time. Ever since I was young, always thought that I wanted to run my own business. People from all walks of life - family, friends, associates, and people who I just meet the first time have always said to me that they 'see me as a person who would run their own company'. Knew this was true but it's about putting dreams into practice, had no idea when was the right time but... the time is NOW!

Through my observations of working within different environments, I've noticed I tend to stick out. Could be seen negatively or positively depending on which environment I'm in or the saying 'A Diamond in the Dirt'. Definitely in a corporate environment I really do stick out (always seen as the 'quirky' one - I'm not even that quirky!), never works out for me. One thing I don't like in corporate environments that it's too restrictive, non-creative, dishonest, lack of colour and soul destroying - those are my experiences no-one else. To be honest most people that work in these environments feel the same way, some just haven't taken chances like I have. Throughout my career, I've always strived for some sort of linear direction in the music industry, tried and worked in different avenues (which represent the zig-zags in my career) to be the innovator I aim to be. In my journey, I have endured emotions and experiences of frustration, positive buzz, failure, bitterness, betrayal, fun times, networking (so fun), fake and real personalities and beneficial associates (gotta be real). Fell into various roles (work experience, A&R, song-plugging, assistant for arts organisation, and licensing) throughout transition trying to find and explore the ideal role in this declining industry which I have a passion for.

One thing that was important to me was remain the same person I was when I first stepped my foot in. You come across so many people who sell their souls, fake a-holes, very genuine people and total nasty people. It's always been important to remain humble that is so vital in this game. I'm aware you need to be tough and I'm still going through that transition to become the assertive woman that I need to be which is not so easy.

I've learnt that you can't let people take advantage of you, in order to survive people will step on your toes to get that piece of cake. Maybe I haven't fought or tried enough but my intuition has always maintained that theres no way I'm changing my mentality or self-worth for anybody and a lot of people sacrifice that just to get a job. I mean a job is a job right?

Things do happen for reason, I've had so many job interviews particularly for music supervision/co-ordination that was perfect for me. Everyone around me knew I was capable for those roles, so close always in the last round but never got it. Why? We all know why innit? Lets just say there are still some barriers. However, I believed in myself that prosperity will come my way but, had to seek and create it myself.

This is the reason why I created my Aries Music. Now the name obviously from my fascination of astrology and I'm a complete dreamer, optimist, driven, and passionate about what I do. The Aries sign encompasses who and what I am - a creative enthusiast. Music - the word speaks for itself my first passion, ever since I was a little girl I knew I was destined to work in music no matter what. It's embedded in my DNA!!

I look back and I'm pretty glad I stuck to my guns, no matter what struggle I've endured whatever industry you work in you have to work hard regardless. My parents are typical Ghanaians at times that they rather I pursued a career in law, sciences, economics - boring stuff (sorry to offend) but those subjects are no interest and doesn't mean you're less intelligent just because I'm not in that profession, hate that mentality.

My intellect comes from music and strategy, so all those ignorant folks who thought what I was doing was pants, stick a remote up your arse. Sorry but I don't fancy sitting in a glass ceiling office with stiff folks.

The whole point of my consultancy is to work with art organisations inner London to create new initiatives and I mean new initatives that haven't been done before and for real I have finally found my niche. I'll reveal no more, as you will see from my actions and results. For now I'm working in small steps.Watch this space people, I will not be defied... my time is now. As Obama said, 'Yes I Can!' I'm really looking forward to this new journey and I have every confidence in God will protect me and enable success come my way.

Till next time, blog ya later.

BLESS!

Get Familiar with this...

Hey I'm back y'all! Yeah, yeah trying it with the American slang. As promised I'm blogging more often as I have a lot to say... OMG - flashback, just got back from Canary Wharf shopping center, walked into Ted Baker and I was mesmerized by this chick's hair, I soooo have to do it like that! Once I get the hair did tomorrow it will be on display for all to see!

Anyway back to the seriousness of the blog...I am in such need of another holiday but this time on the beach for real. Had enough of the city breaks, Rome and Paris which I did enjoy but the beach is calling me! Off to Portugal in August for my other half's b'day which will be absolutely nice, ooh can't wait!

Once again the randomness kicking in, remember I said I will be continuing my quests from the previous months?? Well let me start with my birthday I turned quater of a century. WOW how exciting!! To be honest I really wasn't bothered. Didn't want to make a big deal of however, I my good friends treated me to a shopping spree which really brought my spirits up. Those who know me know I LOVE TO SHOP! Can you believe they had the cheek to blindfold me in Bond Street H&M to Selfridges, ain't gonna lie it was frightening but I was overall happy :)

Skipping to July, I went to the wonderful WIRELESS festival! To be honest, all I cared about was Q-Tip, even though he was better in Paris plus the crowd @ Wireless were teenyboppers so they knew nothing about him, all they knew was Kanye West - blah!

Seen Kanye West at the O2 and he was fantastic and wait for it...the Wireless afterparty hosted by Reggie Yates was off the hook! Good Lord, it was absolutely surreal. My girls and I of course rubbing shoulders with Kanye, Young Jeezy, Mr. Hudson, Shingai from the Noisettes (so have to see them again) and of course I met Mr Abstract himself Q-Tip! I will never forget that moment, I have the upmost respect for this man and I had to say him how much I appreciated him and how much of an influence he is to me, maaayne I was going on and on.

He replied 'Aww thank you', so humble... :) Bless his cotton socks, his DJ set was good as well. Talking of DJ's, Reggie Yates was fantastic, for God sake why so short? His set is the music I love to hear! GHANA represent, EEEY! The 'Ol Skool' is my obsession, it speaks to me. Wow... what a night it was!

Just a taster track for you to enjoy by Young Jeezy, 'Go Crazy' really summed up my weekend: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtleR4veJCM&feature=related

On a real to end on this note, get familiar with this - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiAbFJT2WsQ

ENJOY! Blog ya later!

CATCH UP!!!!

Wooooweeee! It's been a long time since I've blogged on here for a while...so much has happened in a space of a year and a bit. Changed hair again, and changed jobs again... but this time this was something that I was going to make use of for my consultancy. I've done it! Now I'm ready to set out and go on my own. It's what I'm destined for, I honestly cannot work for someone elses vision and direction... I have my own I want to fulfill and now the experience is there, I must admit I feel VERY UNIQUE!

Well I left a LIFELESS job, a recruitment consultancy as an... Administrative Assistant - how boring that I had to go. Honestly it was good for money but career-wise I felt absolutely crap! No the one! Afterwards went to Corfu with my girls NOLA, one of the best holidays I've been to. We met lovely people out there and it was such an adventure.

Next job, the UK licensing body MCPS/PRS! I must say this was a very challenging role and I did enjoy it, but it came to a point when I missed being creative. It's not about the music when you're chasing invoices from various record companies (ain't no flipping accountant), ain't about the music when answering endless calls to clueless licensees who range from dumb to dumber, lol. Those who read this will absolutely know where I'm coming from. Ain't about the music when there is no creativity whatsoever... I love working with creative people and developing talent - thats who I am. I'velearnt that through various jobs you'll know what you're destined for and God has showed me. Well he showed me ages ago, I just needed the licensing knowledge to break free.

Whilst fighting with my inner demons I've been to Paris to see Q-TIP!! My other half took me there for my b'day pressie. I must tell you, those who are not into him, you have to be, this man is a Hip-Hop legend bigtime! Love this guy! The man has mad charisma onstage and the album 'The Renaissance' is fantastic, my favourite track is 'You'.

I must say very meaningful chord structure in that song! Got more to follow about this man, read on... Plus, Paris is a beautiful place love it! Would go again.

I also went to ROMA... Well first to Milan because my beloved mate Janine (yes I'm exposing you hun, lol) was late to the airport so we missed our flight! Maaaayne, I was boiling but really composed myself... I was ready to give up and go back home but Janine in her right mind fought for us to get a free flight. Her lovely Aunt 'Pam Pam' paid for us to stay in Gatwick Hilton Hotel, I will never forget that, so lovely of her to do that! Rome is an interesting place, aesthetically beautiful, romantic, and the men HA... lets say they're not use to seeing attractive ethnic women and get boring at times. Plus, the trip made me realise that Italian is not one of my favourites foods. Pure pasta, lasagne, pasta, McDonalds, McDonalds...pasta and pasta! Naaah getting to much for me,was always bloated, I must say out of all the people I know Janine has the highest energy level EVER!

Man I can go on forever gotta meet a friend, so Imma holla back. TONIGHT!