4 Hot Songs You Need on Your iPod RIGHT NOW

It's been a while, but I am working and gearing up for big things in 2014. Not only do I want to revamp and take my blog to the next level, but I am also getting ready for a new addition to my family in February :)

Music has still been a focal point of my daily life, and the end of the year has seen an explosion in great music. Beyoncé hit us with a sneak attack ALBUM, Jhene Aiko release a long awaited EP, and other artists are dropping buzz singles to give their fans a taste of what's coming in 2014!

Here are 4 HOT songs you need on your iPod RIGHT NOW:

1) Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z "Drunk in Love"
***this song is on fire. I love how Beyoncé has revamped her image***

2) Jhene Aiko -  "The Worst"
***Great EP! And I am glad she is staying true to herself***

3) Trey Songz  - "Na Na"
***Mr. Steal Yo Girl is back and has confirmed a new album in 2014! Yuuup!*

4) R. Kelly feat. 2 Chainz -  "My Story"
***Can't get this one out of my head. Will you go and see him on tour next year?***

-T. Amour

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 17-19

So far this week, I am thankful for 3 things....

• Second (and third, and fourth) chances - I'm glad I have had chances to start over and do things the right way!
• Fresh Sheets and clothes- Nothing feels better than taking a shower and getting into a bed with fresh sheets. I'm thankful to have water and a bed in the first place.
• A Good Book - Reading is so relaxing.

I can't believe we are only about a week away from Thanksgiving!! Where is this month going?!?!?

30 Days of Thankfulness: Catching Up, But Never Forgetting

Even though I have not posted this past week, I have still been keeping track of all the things I am thankful for.

Here it goes:

Days 8 & 9

I am thankful for my mom and dad. Lord knows they weren't perfect, but they tried their best. When I moved in with my college boyfriend (now husband) at 20, they supported my decision, even though they didn't think it was best for me. When I had my first child at 22 and out of wedlock, they didn't frown on me or condemn my pregnancy. They celebrated the new life inside of me and congratulated me on graduating college before becoming a mom.

My parents don't butt in and try to run my marriage or tell me how to parent. When I need someone to listen and not talk, they do it. And, the funny thing is, they have been divorced since I was 8, yet we are all spending Thanksgiving together this year :)

Week of November 10-16

I am thankful for the following:

• Hot chocolate
• Warm boots (it is cold here in Virginia)
• The colors of fall
• The sun (have you ever watched the sunrise/sunset???)
• Hugs from my daughter
• Good movies (Love Jones is my favorite)

It's all about enjoying the simple things in life!

With Love,

-T. Amour

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 6 & 7

I am combining two days into one....life gets busy sometimes :)

I am thankful for health and music!

I am only in my late 20s, however, I have seen many of my friends deal with unthinkable health diagnoses. When we are young, we don't think about the possibility of cancer, lupus, diabetes, and other life altering diseases. But, they can happen to ANY of us, so every day that I have a clean bill of health is a good day. I am also thankful for a healthy family. My unborn child, 4 year old, and husband are healthy and happy!

I am also, obviously, thankful for music. I listen to it all day, every day and there are so many songs from many genres that comprise the soundtrack of my life. Music means the world to me!

-T. Amour

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 5

On day 5, I am thankful for having my basic needs met everyday. I have a warm house and bed, food, clean water, and clothes on my back. I may not be able to afford what I want to eat all the time, my clothes may not be the most expensive or stylish, and my car is 11 years old and on its last leg, but it's ALL GOOD!

What are you thankful for today? Comment below!

-T. Amour

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 4

Today, I am thankful for my new job. I have a flexible work schedule, good pay, and an environment that is virtually stress free! I am still working toward being a full time writer, but it is great to have this opportunity until then!

What are you thankful for today??? 

-T. Amour 

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 3

Today, I am thankful for Sundays. Each Sunday represents a new week to start over. I can put the past 7 days behind me and look forward to the new challenges and opportunities that will come in the next week.

Even if you are not a religious person, Sunday is a great day to be thankful for life. Life is not fair and definitely not perfect, but it can always be worse. If you don't believe me, go to CNN. 

Sunday is a great day to spend time with family and friends and relax before the hustle and bustle of the week. And, its a great day to prepare and plan out your week: What will you do to make a difference? What can you do to work toward your goals and dreams? How can you make a positive impact on others, even if your life is not currently all you want it to be? Will you spread love and light in a world full of hate?

What are you thankful for today?

-T. Amour 

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 1 and Day 2

Hi Guys!

I was under the weather (again) yesterday, but I am still taking the time to be thankful every day, especially this month!

Here are the first two things I am thankful for this month:

November 1st: First, I am thankful for God. He has brought me through suicide attempts, depression, abuse, heartache, trials, and all other pain. Without Him, I am nothing. He holds my future, my family, and my life in His hands. Shout out to the man upstairs one time!

November 2nd: Today, I am thankful for my family. I have a great husband and a sweet daughter. And, in February, my family will be expanding and I love the little person growing inside of me. Every day as a mom and wife is not always happy, but I am still blessed to have them. 

What are you thankful for today??

-T. Amour 

Featured Artist: BlaccOut Garrison

If you don't know who BlaccOut Garrison (born Ta'Ron Deonte Garrison) is, you will know him soon. The Minnesota based rapper's career has begun to take flight since he began pursing a rap career 5 years ago. In 2012, his participation in the Who Better TV Cypher was recognized by blog titan WorldStar HipHop and he has been nominated for a long list of local and statewide awards since. 

His current mixtape, aptly titled Dreams & Thoughts, is a well-crafted collection of fresh, soulful beats and superior storytelling. BlaccOut Garrison is a student of J. Cole, 9th Wonder, and Kanye West (among others), and it is evident in his unique delivery. The 20 year old is looking forward to joining other new school rappers, like Kendrick Lamar, in reviving the roots of hip-hop in a mainstream setting. And, with over 18,000 followers on Twitter and his own brand, "The Dreamers Community", he is well on his way.

To learn more about BlaccOut and his music, check him out on the following social media sites:

YouTube - www.youtube.com/blaccout763

Facebook - www.facebook.com/blaccoutmusic

Twitter - www.twitter.com/ItsABlaccOut

The following track, "Dream Chaser", is featured on Dreams & Thoughts. 

-T. Amour

30 Days of Thankfulness: A November Challenge

30 Days of Thankfulness - November 1-30, 2013!!

Happy Thursday!

On many social media sites, Thursdays are known as "Throwback Thursdays". People post nostalgic pictures and tweet about old school music that makes them reminisce on the "good times". It's easy to look back on our childhood, teenage, and college years and remember the hilarious, embarrassing, and eye opening moments that changed our lives. But, what about your life today?

There is nothing wrong with a trip down memory lane, but we cannot live in the past! We have to look at where we are now and appreciate our lives, even if they are not going in the right direction. I will admit, I get frustrated with my life sometimes. I look at other people who haven't worked as hard as I have, yet they seem to have more money, more fun, and more fancy vacations than I do. I look at my life at nearly 27 years old and I wonder what the heck is going on! Why don't I have more money, a nicer car, and more fashionable clothes.

Anyone feeling the same way??

So, for the month of November, I have decided to focus on the positive aspects of my life. Every single day, I will write and rejoice about the good things in my life RIGHT NOW. And, I plan to get back on track with my personal writing goals! Why focus on what I lack when I can spend time building the life I want?

Will you join me? I hope you do! You can blog/write about your journey as well. Each day, comment or send me a tweet to let me know what you are thankful for on that day!

Follow me on Twitter (https://twitter.com/poetrymusiclife) and Like my Facebook Page: (https://www.facebook.com/LovePoetryLoveMusicLoveLife) to follow my progress.

With Love,

T. Amour

Catching Up!!

Hi Guys,

I have been away and around sparingly for the past few months.

Why?

A few reasons:

• I am expecting my second child and I was EXTREMELY SICK in July, August, and September.
• I am putting the finishing touches on my first published book of poetry.
• I am currently working on a book about my life experiences (thus far).

My book of poetry is tentatively scheduled to be available around Thanksgiving, so it will be here just in time to make a perfect Christmas gift!!

As more details emerge, I will keep you posted!

Much Love,

Tai'sha C. Gooden

Album Review: Tamar Braxton "Love And War"

Last week was officially a Tamar Takeover!

After many years of anticipation and waiting, Tamar finally released her sophomore album Love And War. Backed by an All-Star team including her husband Vincent Herbert (aka the driving force behind Lady Gaga), Tamar provided her "Tamartian" fans with a mix of full-bodied R&B and club/radio friendly ratchet songs.

The duel sides of Love And War are a clear reflection of Tamar's personal life. As the youngest of the now infamous and talented Braxton family clan, Tamar is known as the extremely fabulous and vocal one. Her catchphrases and desire to "drop it like it's hot" have made fans either love her or love to hate her. Her bold personality is showcased on "Tip Toe", "She Did That", and (the most ratchet and fun song of all) "Hot Sugar". 

However, there are two things about Tamar that everyone can agree on: her strong vocals and her solid marriage. Her lead single "Love And War" combines her powerhouse voice and pure emotion for her husband of 5 years. Tamar's niche is clearly good ole R&B and this side of the album does NOT disappoint.

Standout R&B Track: "Pieces"

My personal favorite (and the overall fan favorite on Twitter) is "Pieces". Tamar digs deep and pulls pain from past relationships to pour into the lyrics, which include "I deserve more than just a little part/I don't want nothing if I can't have it all"

Standout "Ratchet Track": "Hot Sugar"

This song is fun, flirty, and fierce. I can picture a dance group doing a nice little number to this one :)

Congrats to Tamar on having the Number 1 Billboard R&B album in the USA!!!

-T. Amour

VMAs 2013 - The Good, The Bad, and The Miley

**First, I want to let you all know how happy I am to be back and blogging again. After nearly two months of moving, extreme sickness, and other life happenings, things are starting to get back on track!! If you are a praying person, continue to pray for my full recovery :)

Last night, MTV brought the Video Music Awards to Brooklyn. Everyone was excited about the new location and looked forward to another stellar awards show. 

Well....we did get some stellar moments in the show. But, there was also an unfortunate mix of tackiness and plain ole ratchet behavior. 

The Good

Justin Timberlake aka The "President of Pop"

About 90% of the good can be summed up in two words: Justin Timberlake. He took home the MJ Video Vanguard Award and turned his performance into a full blown concert, performing a wide range of hits including "Suit & Tie", "SexyBack", and even a snippet of old school N'Sync. Yes, my 90s fangirl child came out. JT was certainly the MVP of the night.

Rihanna's Shade

Rihanna is my girl and she was clearly not in the mood for the rachetness that went down last night. She kicked back in the front row with her jeans and T-Shirt on and looked completely bored to death throughout most of the night. She did sing along with JT and she may or may not have rooted for her comrade Kanye West. Who knows? He had it dark as hell up in there!

Kanye, Drake, and Lady Gaga
*here is a clip of Kanye's performance!*

Kanye took the stage in rocked it in typical Kanye fashion. While rap/singing "Blood on the Leaves", Kanye's silhouette and an eerie background that brings "Strange Fruit" to mind. Leave it to Kanye to make a bold statement. Other notable performances included Lady Gaga's "Applause" (and her wardrobe switching antics onstage) and Drake got the crowd hype with "Started From the Bottom" (my guilty pleasure song).

The Bad
Here is a list of a few things I saw:

• The Pre-show Hosts (except Sway) were terrible
• They showed Taylor Swift about 1984375897 times.
• The audio was ratchet at times.
• Kevin Hart was not funny. At. All. Love him, but not this time
• The N'Sync "reunion" only lasted about 30 seconds before JT told them they had to get up outta there.
• Everything about Miley Cyrus.

Speaking of Miley...

I want her to stop it. Seriously. My blog is all about spreading love, but last night was not a good look for her. I am not sure if she thinks that being "down" with Black people means she has to twerk all day or if she is just making a mockery (and some $$$) off of what a group of Black people do. All I could do was stare blankly as she twerked/grabbed her crotch/looked crazy with some Black girls and giant teddy bears. And just when I thought it was over, Robin Thicke (love him) came out dressed like Beetlejuice and Miley had her cakes all on him too (and her tongue out). I guess the good thing is she is being written and talked about. The bad part is she can't dance and she is letting her talent become grossly overshadowed by her crazy antics. 

-T. Amour

Finding Peace

Happy Monday!

Peace is one of the most sought after gifts on this Earth.

How wonderful would it be to live in a world with no violence, no war, and no hostility!

But, this is not possible. As long as you have people with different religions, upbringings, and cultural views on what is "right", conflict will continue to happen.

We cannot control what others do, say, and believe. But, we can find peace within ourselves and our homes.

How do we find peace within?

• By stopping the mental and emotional assaults on ourselves. 
• Stop telling yourself you will never make it or you are not "good enough". The thoughts we meditate on become our reality because we don't strive for anything better.
• By acting toward others in love, even when they don't reciprocate it. 
• This is a hard task to do, but if we allow ourselves to lash out in anger every time someone does or says something we don't agree with, we are inviting unrest into our spirit.
• By allowing others to live their own version of peace.
• What we define as peace and stability in our minds and lives is not the same for others. As long as the other person is not hurting anyone, allow them to live their peace. For instance, my peace comes through writing and poetry and is not found in the "traditional" workplace. For another woman, her peace may be found in a 9-5 setting. When we stop trying to "fix" others, we can transform ourselves and be a positive influence on those around us.
• By constructing a time and place to be alone. 
• Even if you have to get out of bed earlier or escape to your bathroom or car, find at least 15 minutes for yourself. Breathe, clear your thoughts, and pray or meditate to restore balance in your life. When you replenish your reserve, you can serve others more efficiently.

Love and Light,

-T. Amour

Song of the Week - Amel Larrieux "Afraid"

Amel Larrieux never fails to release soul stirring, feel-good music!

She recently debuted "Afraid" the first single from her upcoming album Ice Cream Everyday. 

Faithful fans have waited six years for new music and, with just one listen to "Afraid", the wait was worth it! Amel's signature smoky voice sounds electrifying against the funky bassline and she ponders the possibilities of new love.

This intoxicating track pairs well with balmy summer evenings :) 

-T. Amour 

Yeezus or Born Sinner??

Today, J. Cole and Kanye West go head to head.

J. Cole released his sophmore album, Born Sinner, and Kanye released the highly anticipated Yeezus.

I find both names to be interesting (to say the least), but its all about material in the end. Kanye is known to be a production genius, J. Cole is know for his masterful wordplay.

Which album will you choose? Or, will they both get equal play?

-T. Amour

Song of the Week: J. Cole feat. Kendrick Lamar

Born Sinner is about to be one of, if not THE best rap album this year.

After a leak of the album, J. Cole streamed the album on his bornsinner.com website just a day after his creative marketing scheme involving several cities.

Rap fans have wanted a J. Cole/Kendrick Lamar collabo album for a while now and this track is a taste of what these two lyrical geniuses are capable of. Although Kendrick is only on the hook, this song still rides.

Supported by a nice sample of A Tribe Called Quest's "Electric Relaxation", this is surely a standout track on Born Sinner, which is slated for a June 18th release.

If you are truly a J. Cole fan, support him and BUY THIS ALBUM.

-T. Amour
***I know there was a post of a tiny foot and other stuff up a few minutes ago. That was my daughter fooling with my iPad. Sorry!

New Beginnings and Sweet Poetry

I have finally gotten the courage to leave my full time job and pursue my dreams of being a writer and small business owner.

Of course, most of my support has come from outside of my family via my faithful Twitter family. The people I know in my non-virtual life think I am insane for daring to be a writer.

But, I know who I am and what I need in my life to be happy. And, being at someone's cubicle for 40+ hours a week is not for me. In order to be the mother and wife I need to be, I have to make a life and not just a living.

I am also leaving the state of NC and moving just a little bit north to the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. While its not a cross country move, I will welcome the change with open arms.

Also, my book of poetry is on its way soon! Everything has been written and I am working on the covers and exploring my publishing options. I am aiming for release in mid-July (at the latest), so stay tuned!

Please keep me in your thoughts as I go forth in my journey. If you are the praying type of person, I accept positive prayers as well! :)

As always, I am thinking of all of you. I want you to be happy, healthy, and to achieve everything you set out to do.

With Love,

-T. Amour

New Music Video: Tamar Braxton: "The One"

Tamar Braxton released a visual for her second single from her highly anticipated second album, "The One"

Even with her "love on top" (aka pregnant belly) in tow, Tamar glows in the fun loving and colorful video complete with a cute beau and a lighthearted stroll on Santa Monica pier.

Are you feeling the new song and video??

-T. Amour

New Music: J. Cole "Niggaz Know"

J. Cole has blessed his steadily increasing fan base with a follow up single to the radio smash "Power Trip"

As always, the North Carolina native (shoutout to my home state) doesn't disappoint! His upcoming album, Born Sinner, is slated for a June 18th release.

Stay tuned, I may have a few copies to give to some lucky followers of my blog!!!! 

What do you think??

-T. Amour

Memorial Day

Happy Monday to you all!

If you are from the USA, take time to remember the significance of Memorial Day. Remember the bold men and women who laid down their lives to protect your freedom. Even if you are anti-war, please keep in mind that many men, women, and even children died so you could have choices, dream big, live abundantly, and love bravely.

This week, do something to make these people proud.

With all my love,

T. Amour 

New Music: Tamara Saul "Biggie Say My Name (Girls Love Beyoncé Bootleg)"

Songstress Tamara Saul has put her unique spin on Drake's "Girls Love Beyoncé" and I am loving it!

Tamara has a great voice and I am anticipating what she will do in the future.

Check it out below and let me know what you think!!

-T. Amour

Lessons Learned

**quote courtesy of Ghandi 

Happy Sunday!

As I sit here and reflect on my past week, I have realized a few important lessons. 

First, we have to be honest enough with ourselves to recognize an unhealthy situation and brave enough to walk away. It doesn't matter if it is an abusive relationship, job, or social group. Life is too fragile and fleeting to waste precious time being trapped in a prison of pain. We may have to plan our escape for safety reasons, but our departure is necessary and needs to happen as quickly as possible. There is a huge difference between having a bad day every now and then and being constantly unappreciated and undervalued. Know the difference and know your worth.

Second, we have to truly believe in our abilities. We know what personal and professional moves we want and need to make to truly feel fulfilled. We may not be able to move as fast as we like, but we should keep moving. People will doubt you, people will judge you, but what do YOU say about you?

Third, the world needs more love. Period. We can't afford to turn a blind eye to things happening in our local, national, and global communities because if we do, then hate and fear will spread and multiply. The world is falling apart and our children, nieces, nephews, and their generation will suffer because of it. Reach out to someone and say hello with a smile. If they don't do it back, that's their loss. You tried! Pay for the person's food behind you at the grocery store. When someone helps you, genuinely thank them. Encourage others, spread love, and seek all things positive in the world. 

Have a great week!

-T. Amour 

Bad Day at Work? Kanye West Has Gotcha Covered

It happens to all of us. It has a way of finding us, even when we avoid the triggers. Even a positive person like me goes through it from time to time.

What is it?

A BAD DAY AT WORK. Sometimes, things just don't go your way. If you don't feel like venting about it, get in your ride and put this Kanye West song in your ears a couple times. Yeah, I know "Spaceships" is old, but its classic Kanye material!

Then, pick yourself up and get over it!! No time to waste on stupidity :)

-T. Amour

Happy Mother's Day!!

Happy Sunday!

Today, focus on the amazing women in your life who are mothers or who have been like a mom to you. Don't bash your mother, don't bash your deadbeat dad, and don't bash the mother of your child. Instead, be thankful for your life and the lives around you.

Remember the mothers and grandmothers who paved the way for the freedoms you enjoy today...

With love,

-T. Amour 

The Future of Music: Sonnymoon

I have a ton of music addictions. Right now, there is no stronger addiction than the one I have recently developed for Sonnymoon.

The dynamic duo hails from Boston, Massachusetts and makes music from another planet. The genre bending, stirring, and haunting experience you will receive from their catalog is ethereal. Sonnymoon is Saturday jazz, Sunday spiritual, and Friday electrifying.

The group's vocalist, Anna Wise, possesses a vocal instrument that soothes your soul like an elixir. If you are a fan of Kendrick Lamar, you will recognize her as the prominently featured female vocalist on his 2012 album good kid, m.A.A.d city.

To find out more about Sonnymoon, like their Facebook Page here and check them out on Twitter here

And check out their single "Kali" below

Peace,

-T. Amour

Song of the Week: Tamar Braxton "The One"

Several months after Tamar Braxton finally dropped the single that changed the course of her music career, "Love And War", a long awaited follow up single was released this week.

Many have doubted her chance at matching the success of her older sister Toni, but Tamar proves that she has the vocal chops and great material to be a formidable force in today's R&B landscape.

"The One" is a feel good, mid-tempo love song with a summer ready vibe and I am loving it!

Can you recognize the sample used? 

Happy Birthday Chris Brown!

Today, one of R&B's most talented figures, Chris Brown, celebrates his 24th birthday!

Christopher Maurice Brown burst onto the music scene with his velvety voice, dynamic dancing, and schoolboy sweetness back in 2005. Since then, we have watched him rise to meteoric heights of fame and crushing personal valleys. 

Since 2009, the world has had their eyes on his every move and word. If he hasn't done anything else, he sure has been...interesting..to watch. Some are waiting patiently for him to spiral into a tabloid, drug addicted mess. Others hope that his gift of entertainment and eventual growth/maturity will bring him into a higher realm both personally and professionally.

When I look at Chris, I see past images of myself. I was young, wild, crazy, and deeply wounded inside. I can not imagine what it is like to have ALL of my bad decisions on fully display for the world to see. Even worse, I would hate to be continually condemned for the worst decision I have ever made in my life. Why? Because when I look back at that decision, I have punished MYSELF for it enough. I am sure Chris Brown feels the same way.

I am a positive person, so I wish him all the best and can't wait to see what 2013 has in store for him!

In honor of his birthday, I want to share one of my favorite Chris Brown songs, "With You"  :)

Love and Light,

-T. Amour

She's Got Next: Rochelle Jordan

Canadian artists have been dominating the American music scene in recent years with artists like Drake and the inescapable Justin Bieber. 

But, as the famous saying goes, the best is yet to come. And, Rochelle Jordan is gaining steam with her sultry vocals and unique music palate. If you wanted to draw a comparison,she has Aaliyah's cool demeanor and Jhené Aiko's intelligence and unbridled passion for authentic music.

Her last mixtape, Pressure, was released in Fall of 2012 and she has most recently been spotted as an opening act for Jessie Ware earlier this year. Although she's still relatively under the radar, Rochelle has gained buzz by doing several covers of popular songs and adding her creative twist.

Follow Rochelle on Twitter to keep up with her moves (@Rochelle_Jordan) and check out on of the many great tracks from her mixtape below.

"Make Me Wanna" is my personal favorite :)

-T. Amour 

RIP Chris Kelly from Kris Kross

Live life and enjoy it...

Chris Kelly was found dead tonight at the very young age of 34. As of right now, the cause of death is unknown. Chris was known as the "Mac Daddy" in Kris Kross. May he rest well.

As an 80s baby and 90s kid, I loved Kris Kross. His family and friends are in my thoughts.

-T. Amour

Last Day of National Poetry Month!!!

April flew by...and true to my word, I spent time writing and sharing poetry with you. I hope you enjoyed it.

As this month comes to a close, I am now focusing on editing and finding a publisher for the poetry I have written, so I will be on a mini-hiatus this week. I cannot wait to have a release date for you!

I may not know you, but I love you for supporting me :)

Namaste,

T. Amour

National Poetry Month: Death and I

Happy Monday!

I know that is a terrible way to start of a post about a poem that concerns death.

Right now, I am dealing with death, but not in the physical sense. Death of an old way of thinking and death to habits that don't contribute to my future.

Today's poem is by Mark R. Slaughter:

**all rights reserved to respective owner

Death and I

When death comes 
I’ll need not love – 
Consumed, 
No wreath or dove 
Could offer me salvation, 
Not when I’m no more.

A weathered stone will bear my name – 
Identity of once a being
Living out existence in 
A world of risk, and never seeing 
Sense of why we’re here. 

My genes will die away thro’ child – 
Hue of eyes and hair, the way of thought,
Will quickly dim with generation –
Bow to future dominance – 
Memories of provenance 
Resigned to curious few. 

When death comes 
I’ll need not grace 
Below; no grieving face 
Will call my resurrection, 
Not when I’m at ground – 
Death and I so bound.

Song of the Week: Janelle Monae feat. Erykah Badu "Q.U.E.E.N."

Happy Sunday!

This week, I will be jamming to this new joint by Janelle Monae and Erykah Badu. As you know, I love fearless women who make music on their own terms and both Janelle and Erykah are known as eclectic and electrifying artists with signature style.

This song is funky, thought-provoking, and fun. I have dreamed of these two collaborating and I finally have my wish! Thank you music gods!!

Check out Q.U.E.E.N. below!

-T. Amour

National Poetry Month: Alice Walker

I know I have been MIA for a couple of days, but I have still continued to read and write poetry.

Tonight, I want to share a poem by Alice Walker that cheered me up during my illness. I hope it will brighten your world too!

Peace,

T. Amour

Before you knew you owned it

Expect nothing. Live frugally
On surprise.
become a stranger
To need of pity
Or, if compassion be freely
Given out
Take only enough
Stop short of urge to plead
Then purge away the need.

Wish for nothing larger
Than your own small heart
Or greater than a star;
Tame wild disappointment
With caress unmoved and cold
Make of it a parka
For your soul.

Discover the reason why
So tiny human midget
Exists at all
So scared unwise
But expect nothing. Live frugally
On surprise.

National Poetry Month: Day 24: Gil Scott-Heron

It is impossible for me to mention the words National Poetry Month and not mention the revolutionary poet, activist, and spoken word artist Gil Scott-Heron.

He is known as one of the biggest early influences on neo-soul and hip-hop. In the 1970s and 80s, he perfected the art of breathing life into poetry with his spoken word albums.

Sadly, we lost Gil-Scott Heron in May of 2011, but his poetry and legacy will never fade away.

Tonight, please enjoy "The Bottle"

The Bottle

See that black boy over there, runnin' scared 
his ol' man's in a bottle. 
He done quit his 9 to 5 to drink full time 
so now he's livin' in the bottle. 
See that Black boy over there, runnin' scared 
his ol' man got a problem 
Pawned off damn near everything, his ol' 
woman's weddin' ring for a bottle. 
And don't you think it's a crime 
when time after time, people in the bottle. 

See that sista, sho wuz fine before she 
started drinkin' wine 
from the bottle. 
Said her ol' man committed a crime 
and he's doin' time, 
so now she's in the bottle. 
She's out there on the avenue, all by herself 
sho' needs help from the bottle. 
Preacherman tried to help her out, 
she cussed him out and hit him in the head with a bottle. 
And don't you think it's a crime 
when time after time, people in the bottle. 

See that gent in the wrinkled suit 
he done damn near blown his cool 
to the bottle 
He wuz a doctor helpin' young girls along 
if they wuzn't too far gone to have problems. 
But defenders of the dollar eagle 
Said "What you doin', Doc, it ain't legal," 
and now he's in the bottle. 
Now we watch him everyday tryin' to 
chase the pigeons away 
from the bottle. 
And don't you think it's a crime 
when time after time, people in the bottle.

National Poetry Month: Day 23: Reflections of this Month

There are only 7 days left in National Poetry Month!!

Have you been writing or reading poetry? I have been doing both!

Instead of posting a poem today, I decided to take a moment to reflect on what National Poetry Month has meant to me this year.

I challenged myself to do 30 poems in 30 days and I have been on target the entire month. Before this April, I would write a poem every now and then when the "urge" would strike. Honestly, I was too busy just trying to make it through my day to day life to worry about writing poetry!

Have you ever felt like you don't have time to do the things that bring you pure joy because you are bogged down with the mundane tasks of your day to day life?

Well, I will encourage you to make time!

Since I have been forcing myself to spend time in my creative space each day, my overall mood has improved, I am happier, and I have yet another wonderful moment to look forward to each day. When I get off work, I can't wait to get home to my computer, iPad, pen, and paper (I write on all of them).

We all get the same 24 hours each day and we are only granted ONE DAY AT A TIME. Whether you are religious or not, I think we can all pretty much agree that once this life ends, it is OVER. 

So, take time each day to write that song, read that book, paint that picture, stand in your garden, or do whatever brings you joy!

Happy Living!

-T. Amour 

National Poetry Month: Janet Lewis

Check out this poem by Janet Lewis for Day 22 of National Poetry Month

I love this one because of the imagery. I can literally use all of my senses to create the picture she paints!

Peace and Love,

-T. Amour

At Carmel Highlands

Below the gardens and the darkening pines 
The living water sinks among the stones, 
Sinking yet foaming till the snowy tones 
Merge with the fog drawn landward in dim lines. 
The cloud dissolves among the flowering vines, 
And now the definite mountain-side disowns 
The fluid world, the immeasurable zones. 
Then white oblivion swallows all designs. 
But still the rich confusion of the sea, 
Unceasing voice, sombre and solacing, 
Rises through veils of silence past the trees; 
In restless repetition bound, yet free, 
Wave after wave in deluge fresh releasing 
An ancient speech, hushed in tremendous ease.

Day 21: National Poetry Month: Shel Silverstein

Happy Sunday and Day 21 of National Poetry Month

I love this poem my Shel Silverstein. If no one else believes in you, I DO!

Peace and Blessings to you,

-T. Amour 

Listen To The Mustn'ts 

Listen to Mustn'ts, child, listen to the Don'ts. 
Listen to the Shouldn'ts, the Impossibles, the Won'ts. 
Listen to the Never Haves, then listen close to me. 
Anything can happen, child, Anything can be.

National Poetry Month: Rita Dove and Nikki Giovanni

                          

Hello!

Yesterday was an insane day and included bad weather in my part of North Carolina, so I did not get a chance to post a poem yesterday.

So, today I am posting two poems for you. There are only 10 DAYS left in National Poetry Month!!

Enjoy the links to them below!

Namasté,

-T. Amour



Rita Dove: Shirtsleeved Afternoons

Nikki Giovanni: Quilts

Day 18: National Poetry Month: Poetry in Motion: Erykah Badu "Out My Mind, Just In Time"

I don't know about you, but this week has been a hell of a week, with extreme highs and lows. Just thinking about what I have done this week makes me exhausted!

But, I want to continue to share poetry with your as April marches to an end.

Today, I am sharing a song by the lovely Ms. Erykah Badu. To me, all of her music is poetry in motion.

Enjoy "Out My Mind, Just in Time"

Peace,

-T. Amour

**I have posted part of the lyrics

I'm a recovering undercover over-lover
recovering from a love I can't get over
recovering undercover over-lover
and now my common law lover thinks he wants another

And I'd lie for you
I'd cry for you
and pop for you
and break for you
and hate for you
And I'll hate you too
If you want me too
Ah, Uuu...
I'd pray for you crochet for you
Make it from scratch for you
Leave out the last for you
Go to the store for you
Do it some more for you
Do what you want me to
Yes I'm a fool for you...

I'm a recovering undercover over-lover
recovering from a love I can't get over
recovering undercover over-lover
And now my common law lover thinks he wants another

And I'd lie for you
and cry for you
and pop for you
and break for you
and hate for you
and I'll hate you too
If you want me too
I gotta do my love for you
chopped and screwed for you
Pay the rent for you
It's true it's true
Poor Badu
Thought I was through with you
Guess I'm a fool for you...

Day 17: National Poetry Month: e.e. cummings [love is more thicker than forget]

Today's poem is by e.e. cummings and it gives us a unique perspective on love.

Enjoy it!

With Love,

-T. Amour

[love is more thicker than forget] 

love is more thicker than forget 
more thinner than recall 
more seldom than a wave is wet 
more frequent than to fail 

it is most mad and moonly 
and less it shall unbe 
than all the sea which only 
is deeper than the sea 

love is less always than to win 
less never than alive 
less bigger than the least begin 
less littler than forgive 

it is most sane and sunly 
and more it cannot die 
than all the sky which only 
is higher than the sky

New Music: Wess Bannon & Rashad "G.O.D.S"

As you all know, I am all about supporting up and coming artists. I heard this track yesterday and I have been playing it since.

This shit is wavy. Hypnotic beat, solid lyrics, and an overall chill vibe. It sounds like VA is preparing to bring a new wave of artists in 2013!

If you want to know more about Rashad, follow him on Twitter: @ECGhost

I plan of doing a more extensive feature of both of these artists at a later date, so keep your eyes open!

Peace, 

-T. Amour 

National Poetry Month: Day 16: Maya Angelou "Passing Time"

Happy Tuesday!

We are over halfway through National Poetry Month and I am loving it!

Today, I want to share a short, but sweet poem with you from Dr. Maya Angelou entitled "Passing Time"

Peace,

-T Amour

Passing Time

Your skin like dawn 
Mine like musk 

One paints the beginning 
of a certain end. 

The other, the end of a 
sure beginning.