Our World Can Be Cruel: Crisis in Darfur

Hello, faithful flock. As you might have guessed from the title of this blog, my mission is simple and important. I want to bring the world of entertainment, politics and art together in one place. I want intellectuals and heat-seekers alike to get something from what I have to say. That having been said, I want to reflect the realities of our world. A world that can be so cool, magical, beautiful, majestic... And yet a world that can be so cruel and full of horrific, evil, frightening, traumatic, disgusting events and images (thus the name: Cool Cruel World). That is my goal, and that is my promise to you. So let's discuss.

For those of you who are unaware, there is a serious crisis going on in Darfur, Sudan. Many call it genocide, some call it war. I just call it all-around apalling. The crisis has many sources, but I will simplify it for you. Basically, the root of the problem is environment. About 2 decades ago, a cocktail of desertification, famine and drought ravaged the area. The Baggara (Arab, camel-herding nomads) tribes of the north were effected most by this reality. As they travelled to the opposite side of the region inhabited by the non-Arab Fur, Zaghawa, and Massaleit ethnic groups in search of tillable land and water, conflict arose due to scarce resources and over-population. What has ensued has caused over 200,000 men, women and children to lose their precious lives. The Sudanese government has given funding to the Janjawid (Baggara) groups-- although they are supposed to remain neutral in this conflict. The government has all but denounced foreign efforts at peace claiming that foreign involvement with this conflict will be viewed as an invasion of the country and will be handled as such.... This is a devastating crisis and too many people have died. Millions of people have been displaced and are homeless because of this. We, in this country are so lucky and fortunate that we do not face these realities....

Although the future seems grim, all is not lost. There is something you can do! If you are as moved by this tragedy as I am, then you can hit up one of these various websites, and donate your time or your money:

http://www.unicefusa.org/

http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/

http://www.savedarfur.org/

There are many celebrities that have dedicated their time and efforts to make a change and so can you. Don't let apathy be your weakness! We can help make things better for our world. Let's do it!

Wacko Jacko's Losing More Than His Mind!

As the saying goes, "the jig is up". Michael Jackson is facing some serious financial woes, as it has become increasingly difficult for him to keep up with his lavish lifestyle. The "king of pop" has lost his famed Neverland Ranch. The house is going up for auction on March 19th. Unless Jackson can come up with the $24,525,406.61 that it costs to save his home, it will be sold. Everything in the ranch will come with the sale including personal items... It must be a far fall from grace when you were up that high. Poor Jacko!

Naomi's Health Scare!

Many reports of supermodel Naomi Campbell's "mystery infection" has been put to rest. According to Perezhilton.com fashion diva has undergone surgery for an ovarian cyst. Last week she had gone in for a check up when doctor's found the cyst on her ovary. They explained that if she hadn't removed it now, it would have become inflamed and caused serious damage to her ovaries. Currently, Naomi is conscious and doing well. Friends say she should be out of the hospital in as little as 3 days... Whooopee!

Hulk Hogan is a Trifling Hoe!

As we all know by now, Terry "Hulk" Hogan is going through an ugly divorce from his wife Linda. The details of the divorce was shrouded in mystery until now. The wrestling hero has turned out to be a backstabber, and not a very good father either! Apparently, Hulk was sleeping with his daughter's (Brooke Hogan) very good friend Christiane Plante (33). Plante had helped Brooke when she was working on her flop of an album entitled Unidiscovered back in 2006. Plante is not only a home wrecker, but she's also a snitch! A snitch with a high price tag. Word is she got paid a pretty penny to spill the details to The Enquirer:

Christiane states, "My relationship with Terry [Hulk Hogan] began at a time when Terry and Linda privately knew their marriage was ending. She had left him already, although no official papers had been filed. Terry is a good man, good father and a good friend, and he and I grew close at a time when he was going through a very difficult period. It seemed right then, but I know it was wrong."

"Having felt the guilt and pain build up, I gave a note to Brooke apologising for my actions," adds whorish Christiane. "I will never be able to fully forgive myself for this. I have lost an amazing friend."

Poor Brooke. She has blogged on her Myspace page about how hard it is to be betrayed by the people closest to her, and I don't blame her. Why would her father do such a thing with her friend of all people? Revenge is a dish best served cold-- Linda's gonna get that money!!!

Nas is Like....REALLY PISSED!

Maxim Magazine has got a lot of explaining to do... In their latest issue, the skin mag gave a scathing review of Nas' soon-to-be-released LP entitled "Nigger". They gave the album 2.5 stars. The only problem was that the album hasn't even been released yet. It is tentatively set to be released on April 27th.





At press time, Nas seemed to be annoyed and confused saying, "I don't even understand what a music review by Maxim means. I would only pay attention to reviews from the likes of Playboy Magazine. I mean, the album isn't even complete, I'm still in the studio working on tracks!" I have to say I agree. Maxim is far from reputable. They recently issue a retraction and apology to Black Crowes for doing a bad review on their latest effort, "War Paint". The funny thing is, the journalist hadn't even listened to the album! At least they apologized... I guess.



Anyway, I for one am excited to see what Nas will do with this album. Check out the thumbnail of the tentative album cover below. Enjoy!

Style file ICON (Black History Edition): Andre 3000

I am sooooooo excited about this man right here. Andre 3000 has been my muse and inspiration since 1994 when his group Outkast came out with: Southernplayalisticadillac. He is an inspiration because he is fearless. He does what he wants, says what he wants, and dresses how he wants without caring what the consequences might be. To me, that is an inspiration because when you are a person like that you are truly free. This is why people like him and Kelis make me happy! :o)


Since Andre debuted on the scene over a decade ago, he has made no apologies for his off-center style. A lot of men are too paranoid to go outside fashion norms because they are afraid to be viewed as a homosexual. I say NUTS TO THAT! If you know who you are, that's all that matters and personally, I find fearless fashion to be quite sexy. Andre takes influences such as his southern roots, and music icons like Bootsy Collins and puts them together with his own unique spin. From colorful wigs, parachute pants, rainbow suspenders and James Dean leather jackets-- Andre does it all, and he does it well! I think it's about time he was recognized and honored for his fierce fashion sense. He inspires me not to be afraid to be different, and I love it! Andre, if you ever read this, just know that someone out there is living in your dimension, and feeling your vibe. Kudos to you, baby! Please take the time to enjoy some thumbnails of our fashion virtuoso below....

Style File ICON (Black History Edition): Naomi Campbell

When you think "Fashion", a few key names come to mind. Undoubtebly Naomi Campbell is certainly one of them. She is one of the greatest, fiercest, most infamous supermodels in the world, and her career has impressively spanned over 2 decades. This British model of Jamaican decent is a breath-taking, walking, talking, breathing work of art! She never ceases to amaze with her grace, beauty, and crazy antics! What diva would be complete without the crazy antics???? From Madonna to Gianna Versace , Jay-Z and even the leader of Brazil-- Campbell has had many famous friendships and relationships. Her style is daring, sexy, unique, intriguing, horrific AND amazing. Her tall, lean body is a beautiful canvas to some of the most treasured fashion creations in the world. Basically the bitch is bad, and 20 years later her name STILL rings bells! Kudos to her in all her fierceness! Go on Naomi with yo BAAAAAAAAD self! Enjoy some images of our fashion queen below....

Tragedy: Famed Producer "Static Major" Dies Suddenly

Some of you know him by name. Some of you don't, but I guarantee that you have bopped your head more than once to his music. Steven "Static Major" Garrett died suddenly on Monday in his hometown of Louisville, KY. It has been reported that he died when doctor's stuck an IV into him accidentally hit an artery and causing him to die abruptly. Garrett was part of the 90's R&B group Playa who was best known for their hit, "Cheers to You".

Subsequently Garrett went on to work with everyone from Aaliyah to Nas and everyone in between. The 32-year-old producer worked with a number of top artists, including Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Jay-Z, Nicole Wray, David Banner and others. He has even worked with the likes of new-comer Sean Kingston, T.I, Lloyd, Pretty Ricky and R. Kelly. This is an unexpected loss and a sad trgedy in the hip hop community and around the world. Garrett and his family remain in our prayers as he will be sorely missed. So listen up kids, this instance just goes to show that your time can be up any day, at any time... So count your blessings!

NYT/CBS Polls Deem Obama the Likely Presidential Winner!

(image courtesy of Getty Images)

According to MSNBC.Com, Barack Obama seems more likely than McCain to win the general election! Whooo hoooo! Obama is an eloquent speaker who is great at rallying the passion and emotion that this nation needs to soar into greatness. His passion, sincerity and perseverance has been an inspiration to many and will go down in history. However, this is not to say that Obama does not have drawbacks. He shows signs of vulnerablilty where experience and preparedness is concerned. After 40 Democratic primaries and caucuses, capped by a winning streak in 11 contests over the last two weeks, Mr. Obama has made substantial gains across most major demographic groups in the Democratic Party, including men and women, liberals and moderates, higher- and lower-income voters, and those with and without college degrees.

But there are signs of vulnerability for Mr. Obama in this national poll: While he has a strong lead among Democratic voters on his ability to unite and inspire the country, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton is still viewed by more Democrats as better prepared for the job of president. And while he has made progress among women, he still faces a striking gender gap: Mr. Obama is backed by two-thirds of the Democratic men and 45 percent of the women. White women remain a Clinton stronghold. As we speak, I'm holding onto my seat, because every passing day is a new saga in this political drama... It's great to be alive!!!

See, You Can Look Crazy Too!

(image courtesy of WENN)

Word on the street is that our rehab-queen Amy Winehouse is planning to come out with her own line of cosmetics! NO, this is not a joke... Unfortunately I'm serious. What? You didn't know Heroin-chic was in nowadays?

A source said, “She wants to bring out a range of cosmetics and fashion products. There could be hairspray, head scarves, liquid eyeliner, perfume. All the things that are distinctive of her look.”

Wow. Looking like a meth-head is also distinctive to her look. I think homegirl needs to slooooooow down. She has barely re cooperated from her crack binge caught on tape last month. Before she even begins to suggest what other people should look like, she needs to get her own look together. I mean, I love her like a play-cousin but let's keep it real, shall we?

This Isn't Really News But....

(image courteously of dlisted.com)

This isn't really news, but I couldn't resist! Paris Hilton and Benji Madden made their debut as a couple this week at Fred Segal in Los Angeles. I just think it's so corny that Paris is dating Nicole Richie's baby-daddy's twin brother. I mean, really. Doesn't Benji know that Paris is a walking STD? I thought he had more sense than that! LOL. That's the thing about Hollyweird... They'll always prove you WRONG! I just hope that Paris doesn't plan on getting preggers with him... That would be BEYOND my corny barrier. I think my head would explode.

Mama Britney's BACK!

Since January 3rd, Ms. Spears has not seen her children. This all ended yesterday as ex-hubby K-Fed allowed Britney access to her boys under the supervision of her father and her psychiatrist. This is a happy twist to a bitter custody battle that Kevin and Britney have been going through since early last year. The troubled pop-star lost custody of her boys completely at the start of this year, but Kevin is starting to feel some pity towards her. I applaud him for being an understanding parent, and wanting his kids to see their mother. I'm sure they missed her despite her antics. The visit was coordinated by Kevin and his lawyers in an attempt to give Brit a fresh start with the boys. Good luck to all of them!

Oh Yes.....It's True!

Brangelina debuted the baby bump yesterday at the Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica, CA. I like how she doesn't need a publicist, or a mega-concert or an explosive article to make a big to-do out of the whole thing. Here's the bump-- that's all you need to know! I admire these two as a couple. So humble, so active, so giving, so beautiful! I am happy for the both of them!

It's a BOY.... And a GIRL!!!!

Jennifer Lopez gave birth to twins this morning at Long Island University Hospital in New York. Her baby girl was born first at 5 pounds 7 ounces, and the boy followed shortly after at 6 pounds. The happy couple are said to be "over the moon". This is the first birth for Jennifer, 39, and this is the third and fourth children for Marc Anthony, 38. I wish them both well in this joyous time. We all know that those 2 rugrats are going to be the most spoiled and conceited on the planet, and it's FABULOUS! I'm not hating one little bit! It is reported that the couple could charge upwards of 6 million for the first pictures of the little ones. Just born, and already they're making millions! Ahhhhh Hollyweird.... What a place!

Hoppin' da Broom!

Sources claim that Janet Jackson was seen this week in Badgley Mischka looking at samples of wedding dresses for her up-coming nuptuals with long-ime boyfriend Jermain Dupri. If this is true this will be the third mistake... I mean marriage for Janet. People have been speculating for years that the two would get hitched, but I never thought she would really do it. But you know what? I'm happy for her. I mean, who needs good looks, nice teeth, height and hair when you've got.... Wait a minute.... What does JD have? Hmmmmmmm? Ouch! That was a little mean, even for me! I'm sure he has a great...... Heart! Well, if this rumor is true, I want to congratulate the happy couple. Love is grand!

He's Baaaaaaaaaack!

I guess money talks.... Like a racist! According to several media outlets, "Dog the Bounty Hunter" will be put back on the air on A&E. After a recorded racially-charged conversation by Dog was made public late last year, the station suspended production of the show. During this suspension, Dog went around town to every black famous person he knows apologizing, shucking & jiving and begging. Eventually A&E said they were "pleased with his progress", and are ready to put the show back on the air...

The truth of the matter is that Dog's show brings in the highest ratings for that channel, and he's basically a cash cow. They need him and therefor they are putting him back on the air. There was no amount of shucking & jiving in the world that could have gotten Isiah Washington his job on Grey's Anatomy back, so I'm really not buying this 'sympathy' story.... I can't say I'm surprised though. You know they say money talks, and that dirty, dirty cash probably had a LOT to say!

Obama on a Ten-Win HOT STREAK!!!!

Well people, we are making history this year. We truly are. Unless you have been living under a rock for the past 6 months or so, then you know that the deomcratic race for presidential candidate has been a heated, dramatic, mud-slinging, back-talking, jive-making fight to the finish. We are in the final stretch, and I must say both Clinton and Obama have put up a strong and entertaining fight. Initially I was torn, but moe recently Clinton has been really turning me off with her negative campaigning tactics. Besides that, when you look at her agenda there is not much that differs between her and say, John McCain. She's a little too conservative for my liking. I believe this country needs a fresh-faced, bold and brave liberal who will change the global opinion of our nation for good! I believe that Obama is that man, and apparently a lot of people agree with me.

Most recently, Obama won delegates in Hawaii, South Carolina and Wisconsin. The only way Clinton can pull this off is if she performs nothing short of a miracle in Texas; which I highly doubt. Her camp has gone out of their way to take many things that have been said by Obama out of context, but Barack always seems to take it in stride. Most recently, Clinton attacked Michelle Obama for a speech she gave this weekend when she claimed, "Now is the first time in my adult life that I can stand up and say I am truly proud of my nation". You know Hillary jumped all over that one. But truly as a black woman, I understand where Michelle was coming from. Clinton claims she's always been proud of this nation... So I guess when blacks were hanging from trees like some kind of strange fruit that was pride. Amadou Diallo? Pride. Rodney King? Pride. The Jena 6? Pride. Iraqi War? Pride. Wooooooooow, what a world we live in. Please oh please Lord grant Obama the strength and ability to make it to that finish line. He is a change we can believe in!!!!

The Road to Recovery

I know I've been gone for a while.... DID YA MISS ME???? Now that vacation is over, let's get right down to it. Our girl britney seems to be making some big changes for the better. Although she has not sen or spoken to her two young sons since January 3rd, she is hoping to regain joint custody again soon.

After an intervention from her parents nearly a month ago, and a 2 week stint at a hospital psych ward, it looks like Britney is recovering. Not only is her weave on-point, but she has healed the torn relationship between her and her formerly-estranged parents. her father has taken legal control of her estate and her money. He has hired a bodyguard who is with her 24-7, and he also drives her wherever she needs to go. Besides Adnan, all other bad influences (aka Osama Lutfi) have been banned from her life. She looks happier and healthier. She has been working on dance routines for her new video, and she has evenb taught some dance classes! It looks like all might end well for this fallen pop-star.... Only time will tell!