Like most of the people I know, I have been all into the Olympics since they kicked off on July 27th. On top of being a music and poetry fanatic, I love to watch sports. And the Olympics takes all of my interests and smashes them into one ridiculously huge event! Gymnastics, fencing, cycling, tennis, swimming, track and field...pretty much every sport I love to watch is on TV all day long. If only I could watch all day....
Even if you are not a fan of the Olympics, surely you have heard about Gabby Douglas. The 16 year old phenom from Virgina Beach came in relatively unknown as part of the Fab Five - the group of young gymnasts who represent the USA. To some people's surprise (not mine), she glided her way toward gymnastics highest honor and took home the gold medal in the All-Around competition. Many have noted that she is the first African American woman to do so. But, despite her race, she had the talent and personality to become America's next sweetheart.
But, even with the sweetest and most God-fearing disposition, coupled with a enigmatic smile and crazy skills, Gabby is already facing haters. Apparently, some ignorant people decided to display their idiocy to the world and make remarks about Gabby's hair and teeth. I have one word for them: REALLY??
First of all, she is an athlete in competition, not Miss Teen USA (no offense to those girls). Her job is to focus on her sport, not to make sure her hair is fried, dyed, and laid to the side. Let's be real people. Her hair is back in a ponytail with gel and clips, just like her Caucasian counterparts. But, because of its "texture", people want to make jokes? I am amazed how some people will do anything to bring anyone down in their moment of glory. And, her smile may not be perfect, but its real and beautiful.
Second of all, she could care less what any of us thinks. She just signed a multi-million dollar contract with Kellogg, which I am sure is the first of many. She is rich and successful and a positive role model to young women. What were YOU doing when you were 16? Certainly not winning a gold medal...
On to the music. Elle Varner (a fave of mine) is releasing her debut album TOMORROW!
Perfectly Imperfect will hit stores tomorrow, so get a copy and wait for my album review so we can compare notes :)
Like (British) Rock Music? I'm pumped about the Darkness releasing a new album on the 20th entitled
Hot Cakes. This is the follow up album to 2005's
One Way Ticket to Hell...and Back
Also, on August 21st, Trey Songz will release his fifth album, appropriately titled
Chapter V. Based on the singles released thus far, there seems to be something for everyone on this album.
And, what's the deal with this new Aaliyah song featuring Aubrey aka Drake. Word is Aubrey didn't get permission to do so...uh oh. I love Aaliyah dearly (as we all do) and have no problems with Drake, but I agree with most fans - Missy, Timberland, and Baby Girl's fam should be in the loop. They knew her, loved her, and had a keen understanding for how she wanted to be represented musically.
I think it is refreshing to hear Aaliyah's sweet voice soaring again. What I do realize is Drake is a fan, just like we are, and he loved Aaliyah even though he never knew her, just like many of us. But, as I comb through his lyrics, I hear a few strategically placed disses, perhaps toward a certain R&B singer. And, I am not here for someone using an Aaliyah track to fuel a feud.
It will be interesting to see if there is any validity to talks of an album or new releases....
Love Others,
-T. Amour
Posts
