tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74117698724947016222024-03-12T21:59:15.476-04:00Tha Miaus Of ThaGataNegrraTha musings and random rants of "NJs real life Catwoman": ThaGataNegrraThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-9842652685578699892021-02-08T22:52:00.004-05:002021-02-09T15:44:26.691-05:002021 Is Looking Like... Change.<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCPxS1JJuaw/YCH3eMVf8fI/AAAAAAAB1ls/Tt9Aygz0FW8ZHloyA7mi5FsNqx0VGa26ACLcBGAsYHQ/s498/change%2Bof%2Bplan.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="208" data-original-width="498" height="344" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCPxS1JJuaw/YCH3eMVf8fI/AAAAAAAB1ls/Tt9Aygz0FW8ZHloyA7mi5FsNqx0VGa26ACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h344/change%2Bof%2Bplan.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Change is good. <br />via Tenor</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Welp... here we are in the second month of the year, and I am already sort of excited about the changes happening in my life. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It would seem that yer grrrl is getting to step outside her box a bit-- step, hell. I'm obliterating the box. I am stopping the thinking about freaking boxes. What box, where?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rqmTehHxrcg/YCH8XU71ZaI/AAAAAAAB1l4/gy92YRImkbkpsPWBtlDgOHbX_ONyF9CkQCLcBGAsYHQ/s500/box.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="500" height="368" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rqmTehHxrcg/YCH8XU71ZaI/AAAAAAAB1l4/gy92YRImkbkpsPWBtlDgOHbX_ONyF9CkQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h368/box.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I ain't see no box...<br />via GfyCat</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Just accepting more collabs outside the vein of the body of work that I am known for (FINALLY) is freeing up so much energy...and notice is starting to be taken. I'm humbled, happy, and surprised at the same time. And I am so ready to work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uGKQfYoZLNI/YCH862Cp0FI/AAAAAAAB1mA/MrZnDftOFqIpXxCVlO4W4aTCOiXYYsQBgCLcBGAsYHQ/s498/work.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="221" data-original-width="498" height="284" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uGKQfYoZLNI/YCH862Cp0FI/AAAAAAAB1mA/MrZnDftOFqIpXxCVlO4W4aTCOiXYYsQBgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h284/work.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WERK.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I believe that this is a year of transformation, of shaping into another form closer to what I was meant to be. I'm embracing it. After all: nobody got anywhere by standing still and being stagnant. You do the same things over and over, you remain where you are. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tD1uEYEXbDY/YCH9yTSjybI/AAAAAAAB1mM/il_Mc-YevcwnZ2d84gpsjFeGX7rzUYCiACLcBGAsYHQ/s540/the%2Btank.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="540" height="332" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tD1uEYEXbDY/YCH9yTSjybI/AAAAAAAB1mM/il_Mc-YevcwnZ2d84gpsjFeGX7rzUYCiACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h332/the%2Btank.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Peach Energy.<br />via tumblr</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am at the start of a new journey. It couldn't have come at a better time. And I am finding that there are things that I don't really need to achieve in order to be happy about where my life is. I'm living in gratitude for all that I do have, and for the people who had my six the whole time. 2020 was not the usual grind for us here Lairside, but we did bloom where we were planted. And we are all alive, healthy (as far as we know), and still doing the family thing. It's not always heavenly wine and roses, but I think that we are trying to sort out our priorities, things are aligning, and I'm just taking the ride and enjoying the scenery.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAZsVSA5-gg/YCH_HUzBI7I/AAAAAAAB1mY/X0vi1nC5rr40tjLpOjrpG2RXb3-o4lOHACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/ride.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAZsVSA5-gg/YCH_HUzBI7I/AAAAAAAB1mY/X0vi1nC5rr40tjLpOjrpG2RXb3-o4lOHACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/ride.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well. This looks fun.<br />via GfyCat</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This time next year, I hope to see more growth. I hope to continue creating, to have fun, and be as satisfied as I can be...which is saying something for a Virgo.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmQMrhqMCmY/YCIGVOB3aRI/AAAAAAAB1mk/DMxsbEWXhl4nlrXP5BqWSBhRENoEzOmAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/never%2Bsatisfied.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="400" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmQMrhqMCmY/YCIGVOB3aRI/AAAAAAAB1mk/DMxsbEWXhl4nlrXP5BqWSBhRENoEzOmAQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/never%2Bsatisfied.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You knew it was coming.<br />(Yes, another Hamilton gif. Shut it.)<br />via tumblr</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-81345582542091030632021-01-03T20:56:00.008-05:002021-12-01T13:54:36.145-05:00Back Again So Soon, G? ...Yup.<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFLodYxcySg/X_I4lb7Fm5I/AAAAAAAB0lc/pIjgrYORtoMGi0o59cDAG_lvhBI0-yNQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s500/we%2Bsurvived.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="500" height="258" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFLodYxcySg/X_I4lb7Fm5I/AAAAAAAB0lc/pIjgrYORtoMGi0o59cDAG_lvhBI0-yNQgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h258/we%2Bsurvived.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty accurate description of arriving in 2021 from 2020.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Happy New Year!</p><p>Welp-- we made it out of the absolute shxtstorm that was 2020! How do you feel? I hope you're feeling optimistic. I also hope (obvi) that you are safe and healthy.</p><p><br /></p><p>I'm of the mind that if we can survive 2020, we can probably get through nearly any challenge. We lost so many this year to the novel coronavirus, to violence, to just plain stupid shxt. It has been a trying year financially, especially for those of us in the entertainment industry. This is where learning to adapt and shift has come in most handy. We've tried to find new ways to bring income down as we cannot do live shows right now (even though I would love to do drive-in shows). We've livestreamed and been part of virtual cons, which were all fun!</p><p><br /></p><p>I can only hope that 2021 is a better year; I sincerely hope that we don't regress into like, the zombie apocalypse everyone seems to think is coming. For one thing, I haven't trained hard enough yet, LOL.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv0MOl2zWCE/X_JlSS-UyWI/AAAAAAAB0lo/jbg8tMx66-ssoSeG-jLnBcSUscOi4KOzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s559/thriller.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="559" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv0MOl2zWCE/X_JlSS-UyWI/AAAAAAAB0lo/jbg8tMx66-ssoSeG-jLnBcSUscOi4KOzgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h225/thriller.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now, <i><b>this</b></i>... I trained for.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>The end of 2020 was interesting as I had featured on two projects with <a href="http://www.therealmikewilson.com" target="_blank">The Real Mike Wilson</a> by then and I'd released a holiday single, something I'd always wanted to do, but hadn't done before! I'm glad I did. Have you heard it yet? Yeh-- I <i><b>know</b></i> the holidays are over, but there's stil Dia de Los Tres Reyes and this is still kinda appropriate... check it out:</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/7lErqrfkwOe5pbXD7C2cx3" width="300"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm going to do whatever I can to make 2021 be a great year as well. For starters, I have a thing coming up that my tracks have been selected for, and I can't wait to see how this is going to turn out. I'm excited.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What are your plans for 2021? If you don't have any, that's fine-- sometimes plans don't work exactly like you'd hoped. 2020 definitely drilled that lesson home. It's about having to navigate the flow of things, not just going constantly with the flow. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's to navigating!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-4414149308836043062020-11-27T10:51:00.010-05:002022-11-24T15:37:06.001-05:00Clowdermas-- And A Recipe!<p>I know. "Bxtch, you don't blog." </p><p>I come bearing gifts this time, but first: a story.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wg5cUnZdQQo/X8EXSxvh0iI/AAAAAAAByDc/FeLAc7KdX8c2urLXktNHVAEzuo6ZcHfsACLcBGAsYHQ/s478/gonna%2Bbe%2Bgood.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="478" height="224" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wg5cUnZdQQo/X8EXSxvh0iI/AAAAAAAByDc/FeLAc7KdX8c2urLXktNHVAEzuo6ZcHfsACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h224/gonna%2Bbe%2Bgood.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's gonna be good. <br />(via Tenor)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>About three years ago I had a sudden burst of crazy to just put a whole holiday dinner on a bun. I figured it would be a fun way to have holiday dinner if we couldn't get to my dad's like we usually did or if I didn't feel like doing a full on dinner, or if, like it once happened before, our oven conked, and only the range or an applicance was all we had left to cook on. </p><p>I tried to come up with the best parts of the dinner: what stood out when I made a full dinner? I tried to think of the big flavours.</p><p>I wrote it down, and never got to use it.</p><p>Until yesterday.</p><p>And it was--<i><b>thankfully</b></i>-- a hit. They already want this to be a full-on tradition--even had the noive to ask for it for Yule next month! </p><p>One of my Elder Cubs killed theirs in two minutes flat and came back for another, Everyone said they liked it, even my finicky, persnickety youngest, who said it was "weird, but I give it infinite stars out of ten." </p><p>I don't think I can ask for better than <i><b>that.</b></i></p><p><br /></p><p>Side Mission, to add some backstory:</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETGpTD88TMQ/X8EaZV06dMI/AAAAAAAByDo/ve6FDmWVFdwp4K66sDlQW6-laP1H95HWgCLcBGAsYHQ/s480/MORE.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETGpTD88TMQ/X8EaZV06dMI/AAAAAAAByDo/ve6FDmWVFdwp4K66sDlQW6-laP1H95HWgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h225/MORE.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okay, Kylo, damn--<i><b>relax</b></i>!<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Last year, I made the decision to put my own spin on Thanxgiving as a holiday, should we observe it at Tha Cat Lair. I had written <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIDmu6Dl2eG/" target="_blank">a whole IG story</a> about our usual approach to the holiday, stating that we didn't really go all "YAY, THANXGIVING" about it. The day just seemed like an excuse to gather and be with those we loved, we ate dinner, we didn't really<i><b> observe</b></i> the traditional version of it like I guess most families are expected to. It could just as easily have been a Sunday dinner like some families are wont to do.</p><p>So, this year, we were bound by the guidelines of the <a href="https://www.nj.com/essex/2020/11/newarks-10-day-lockdown-is-an-urgent-advisory-not-an-order-city-official-says.html" target="_blank">10 day unenforced lockdown in Newark</a> and the fact that my stepmother basically cancelled the usual dinner at theirs because</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OFzDkXn_RA/X8Ebt0YRa5I/AAAAAAAByD0/nDYDdaT_7944ojLgFQEQloz-pxTVodXagCLcBGAsYHQ/s480/coronavirus.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OFzDkXn_RA/X8Ebt0YRa5I/AAAAAAAByD0/nDYDdaT_7944ojLgFQEQloz-pxTVodXagCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h225/coronavirus.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...well, you know.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>And, whilst scrolling through my IG feed, a very wise young woman called Tha Conjuress, via one of her super enlightening posts, reminded me of what I'd said the year before.</p>
<p>She actually wrote something yesterday that nailed the sentiment as well. But I digress...</p><p><br /></p><p>What I'd said was: " I would rather start my own tradition on the last Thursday of November than perpetuate the untruth or be angry every year. I would rather make something better. So I <i><b>will</b></i>."</p><p><br /></p><p>Enter "Clowdermas". </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bp-RBt9cZqQ/X8Ef8ZipfNI/AAAAAAAByEA/ZGkchfqPiSEmz1nOmrtK9pHdtbl-_c6aACPcBGAsYHg/s2100/Clowdermas.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="2100" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bp-RBt9cZqQ/X8Ef8ZipfNI/AAAAAAAByEA/ZGkchfqPiSEmz1nOmrtK9pHdtbl-_c6aACPcBGAsYHg/w400-h400/Clowdermas.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our official Holiday greeting.<br />(design by NaughtyKittyWorld)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>I've called it "Clowdermas" in honour of our family: basically "The Sacred Gathering of Cats". ๐น Whilst the majority will be celebrating Thanxgiving, we'll be going "Blessed Clowdermas"! It might seem pretentious to some-- I got a lot of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Festivus" target="_blank">Festivus</a> jokes from people, up to and including Peace (which I told him to stop because I am not a Seinfeld fan, sorry not sorry)-- but this is not the first time I've done a holiday dinner differently. I seem to recall a celebration a long time ago where <i><b>none</b></i> of my blood family were involved and it was just my boyfriend at the time and a bunch of our tribe. We even tried to make some traditions. </p><p>Besides, if yawl can go round with effing "<a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a26052713/galentines-day/" target="_blank">Galentine's Day</a>" and "<a href="https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Friendsgiving" target="_blank">Friendsgiving</a>", my clowder can have Clowdermas. Bai.</p><p><i><b>ANYWHO</b></i>...</p><p>Back to the recipe for... The Clowdermas Dinner Burger!</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2X3xrWUbEUQ/X8EVhtyTxjI/AAAAAAAByDM/FTxXny5TJbAB8pxTdJno7GQ9RRqbZy0iQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/clowdermas%2Bdinner%2Bburger.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="531" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2X3xrWUbEUQ/X8EVhtyTxjI/AAAAAAAByDM/FTxXny5TJbAB8pxTdJno7GQ9RRqbZy0iQCLcBGAsYHQ/w604-h531/clowdermas%2Bdinner%2Bburger.jpg" width="604" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my Eldest Cub's assembled burger. Note the wild Grrrl Cub photobombing in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>I pretty much eyeballed the whole thing so I don't have exact measurements. Everything is to taste.</p><p>I plan to tweak this recipe as I go along.</p><p><br /></p><p>You'll need:</p><p>-Brioche buns</p><p>-Sharp cheddar slices</p><p>-a large tub of ground turkey. Yes-- it must be turkey, because you're going for the taste of a turkey dinner.</p><p>-Poultry seasoning, or <a href="https://shop.bellsfoods.com/collections/all-products/bells-seasoning/" target="_blank">Bell's Seasoning</a></p><p>-Thyme</p><p>-Parsley</p><p>-Minced Onion</p><p>-Salt</p><p>-Pepper</p><p>(any of these are optional. Use whatever you would to season your normal turkey)</p><p>-Whole berry cranberry sauce, whatever brand you choose. We like Ocean Spray. Some of the clowder used jellied, so that's okay, too. If you make your own cranberry dressing, nada wrong with that either!</p><p>-Stuffing mix or whatever stuffing you make. We used Stove Top.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>For the Spread:</p><p>-Sweet potatoes. We used canned, but I don't see why you cannot use fresh ones, or even yams. In fact, yams was the original plan but I didn't want to use that big-assed can of yams I had in the pantry.</p><p>-Heinz 57 Sauce.</p><p>-Miracle Whip. Now, I know everyone doesn't like Miracle Whip, but it's a staple Lairside. You can sub regular mayo here, it just won't be as zesty.</p><p>-Cinnamon</p><p>-Allspice</p><p>-Ground Ginger</p><p><br /></p><p>Prepare your stuffing according to package directions or however you make stuffing. Set aside.</p><p>Open up your cranberry sauce. If you like it chilled, chill before opening.</p><p>Mix the turkey and the spices together in a bowl by hand or with a spoon.</p><p>Form your burgers and cook as you would a burger till cooked through.</p><p>For your spread, blend or mix together the sweet potatoes, the Heinz 57, and the Miracle Whip with the spices until smooth.</p><p><br /></p><p>Spread the... <i><b>spread</b></i> on the bun, and add your burger, cheddar, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and there you are.</p><p><br /></p><p>It's a bunch of flavours that on paper, you'd think might not work, but if you think about the usual holiday fare... you know it will!</p><p>The recipe will prolly have changed by the next time I try it so I'll let you know how those variations come out. If you try this, please take pics and let me know how you liked it...and pls let people know where you got it from!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p> <script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-76670334839804372532020-04-21T03:34:00.000-04:002020-04-21T03:34:01.154-04:00I Admit It. I Have To Do Better.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sI-84KVnXIA/Xp6aimPZgRI/AAAAAAAAAnU/EeQQgM_rsNoBUJ6oyCg3ZCokoHupRFQZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/forgiveness.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="235" data-original-width="478" height="195" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sI-84KVnXIA/Xp6aimPZgRI/AAAAAAAAAnU/EeQQgM_rsNoBUJ6oyCg3ZCokoHupRFQZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/forgiveness.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry, yawl.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I don't know <b><i>why</i></b> it is so difficult for me to keep up with my blog. I find myself apologising to you lot more often than not. I'm sorry I haven't been active, and I will try to do better with this.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0a8w9hcInSA/Xp6bCjY-pWI/AAAAAAAAAnc/j4PIPz9KbjMJ1LsLut8uS59cta5VkGqCACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/i%2Bcan%2527t%2Beven.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="500" height="223" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0a8w9hcInSA/Xp6bCjY-pWI/AAAAAAAAAnc/j4PIPz9KbjMJ1LsLut8uS59cta5VkGqCACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/i%2Bcan%2527t%2Beven.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I. Can't. Even.<br />(via GfyCat)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Things have seemingly gone to shxt, haven't they? Life as we knew it has become something <i><b>entirely</b></i> different. You're locked down in the house. Any plans you had are suddenly up in the air or obliterated. None of the days feel like what they are (every day feels like Sunday to me). Nothing is certain-- not that things were before, but this really is a take-it-day-by-day situation. Moment-by-moment, even. This is how I've had to handle things.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TP1eq75ae4/Xp6da-lt4KI/AAAAAAAAAn8/GYnXxB2ttf4uWGaaxOjO8e2yYQdtyP2LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/not%2Blonely.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="500" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TP1eq75ae4/Xp6da-lt4KI/AAAAAAAAAn8/GYnXxB2ttf4uWGaaxOjO8e2yYQdtyP2LwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/not%2Blonely.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm good.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
It hasn't been that difficult for me, the lockdown, and I can thank my only-child upbringing for that. I've baked bread, written lyrics, worked on a novel, updated my website, taken some (or started taking some) courses, made plans on how to best utilise my time, and just practised gratitude. I had been doing that in some form or fash anyway, but I have been doing it even more as of late. I really <i><b>am</b></i> grateful that I have this crazy clowder, who I love dearly.<br />
<br />
<br />
I have also been taking more time to chat with my ancestors when I pray. I've begun living my life knowing that they are behind me, beside me, in front of me. I thank them for their contributions and for guiding me every day.<br />
<br />
I have also been reading a lot. I can always turn to that when I have nothing else to do. It's one of my favourite pastimes anyway, but I know that if I don't have power, I can always find a flashlight and dig into a book.<br />
<br />
It hasn't always been easy-- life still throws challenges at you (Peace broke my Sekhmet's arm off, our property management is being kind of a...pain, where the hell are eggs when you want them, the rum's gone) -- but it's also sent some bright spots (I'll be gifted another Sekhmet, someone gave us some eggs, people have been very generous, I went live on Instagram with one of my homies and did some songs). You take the bitter with the sweet, I suppose.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, things finally came to a head for a situation in my life, and I am still reeling from that. I can only hope that this means I can make a way forward unfettered. Hoist my colours and bring me that horizon.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JNI0rH8CD60/Xp6hAvHCtfI/AAAAAAAAAoY/Q7hcTlPOzDE0-PGubUWAd-9rWiGqi4LowCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/hoist%2Bthe%2Bcolours.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="500" height="160" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JNI0rH8CD60/Xp6hAvHCtfI/AAAAAAAAAoY/Q7hcTlPOzDE0-PGubUWAd-9rWiGqi4LowCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/hoist%2Bthe%2Bcolours.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeh.<br />(via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I hope that, despite the fact that I cannot seem to stay blogging or sending a regular newsletter, you will continue to stick by me, GNOtaku. It seems that the wind is changing.<br />
<br />
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-31910037453718905162019-10-18T18:33:00.000-04:002019-10-18T18:34:18.913-04:00You Shall Not PassI was just told I have too many negative people in my space.<br />
<br />
I was also told I focus too much on the haters around me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I think what I <b><i>have</i></b> is too many people who don't <b><i>get</i></b> me in my space...or on the <i><b>fringes</b></i> of my space.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In some ways, <b><i>they</i></b> are almost as bad as the negative people (who are also on the fringes of my space).<br />
<br />
If you don't know me or get me, please wait before you try to judge me. This applies to even those who think they know me best. Don't assume you understand my methods of coping or existing, and don't apply <b><i>your </i></b>template for thinking to any of it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEjlacrwJQQ/Xao6P6-nWjI/AAAAAAAAAlI/j9fniWCo9-o1r_YfBlzBQeG4Q28SmYvxACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/youdon%2B%2527t%2Bknow%2Bme.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEjlacrwJQQ/Xao6P6-nWjI/AAAAAAAAAlI/j9fniWCo9-o1r_YfBlzBQeG4Q28SmYvxACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/youdon%2B%2527t%2Bknow%2Bme.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You really don't. (via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>You</b></i> see too much focus; <b><i>I</i></b> see me marking my fxcking perimeter and closing it off and putting up warning signs. I see barbed wire and a circle of salt, and a "<b>YOU ARE SEEN. YOU ARE NOT WELCOME HERE IF YOU HAVE COME TO WREAK HAVOC</b>."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4euLtf2yom4/Xao7Qq-G6xI/AAAAAAAAAlU/JsSSdJP_rw067RNyxKrO_s7MxNnaPvDoACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/go%2Baway.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="186" data-original-width="360" height="206" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4euLtf2yom4/Xao7Qq-G6xI/AAAAAAAAAlU/JsSSdJP_rw067RNyxKrO_s7MxNnaPvDoACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/go%2Baway.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeh... bai. (via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>You</b></i> see me "responding" to negativity; <b><i>I</i></b> see me declaring who I am to the world and the Universe, and not backing down from my statement.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Completely ignoring the presence of those who come for you--I mean, <i><b>REALLY</b></i> come for you-- is <b><i>not</i></b> positive. It is setting yourself up for a possible problem, and I will not abide.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Do you leave your home unlocked when you see the wrong people about? Do you ignore them and keep on as you were with the windows up exposing all your valuables? No, you put up security. You install an alarm or a deterrent. You let people know that you are at home.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
That...is what I'm about. Letting that element know, if and when they try to come for me, that I <i><b>am</b></i> at home and that alarm is on and they will <i><b>NOT</b></i> pass...and they will regret if they try.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vQqWeQu5R4/Xao8VBEHXLI/AAAAAAAAAlg/uGwVYuUC_X86jDctWGpCwGDz51TBRZFSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/you%2Bshall%2Bnot%2Bpass.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="500" height="221" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vQqWeQu5R4/Xao8VBEHXLI/AAAAAAAAAlg/uGwVYuUC_X86jDctWGpCwGDz51TBRZFSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/you%2Bshall%2Bnot%2Bpass.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He was polite about it. (via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If I talk about it, it is to raise awareness of it being there. Not lamentation...and not acceptance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Once you realise this--and the fact that everyone's experience is relative to them--we'll get on just fine. Invalidating by saying "If <i><b>I</b></i> did that..." or something similar is not going to help anything.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>TLDR: Get off your assumptions about people and find out the truth instead. My experience and methods ain't yours.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NN3I6sw7EB4/Xao8mtRP47I/AAAAAAAAAl0/BKCDATyEJd4z0Hi91qP_2w6_e96Zn47WACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Nope%2Bprince.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="258" data-original-width="373" height="276" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NN3I6sw7EB4/Xao8mtRP47I/AAAAAAAAAl0/BKCDATyEJd4z0Hi91qP_2w6_e96Zn47WACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Nope%2Bprince.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...aaaaand I'm out. (via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-10545865680737476542019-02-06T16:04:00.000-05:002019-02-06T16:04:35.608-05:00This. Stops. NOW.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9WdQh1g3vLc/XFsxJBe298I/AAAAAAAAAgs/6Fk4Bx8oDT4zuCt35ZocfXBj8qp_lNwtACLcBGAs/s1600/GTFO-avengers-iron-man-kicks-thor.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="500" height="215" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9WdQh1g3vLc/XFsxJBe298I/AAAAAAAAAgs/6Fk4Bx8oDT4zuCt35ZocfXBj8qp_lNwtACLcBGAs/s400/GTFO-avengers-iron-man-kicks-thor.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GTFO. Bye.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have been systematically removing all that is not best for my growth or that no longer serves as a positive force in my life--people, places, things, and ideas. Not things that might be challenging or uncomfortable, but shxt that is straight <b><i>toxic</i></b>.<br />
<br />
Predators posing as house pets. People who say things that cause me to doubt and/or question my own power, or cause me to feel bad about myself--even if they are family. Dismissive, self-important/self-centered people. People who project their own negative beliefs ("I'm old/getting old/too old to change, learn, do something, or better myself" i.e.: "I'm set in my ways so fxck dat") onto myself and others. People who insult me in the guise of humour, or who insult me and then try to clean it up with flattery (like that makes it better. Making someone you care about feel like shxt isn't funny, cute, <b><i>or</i></b> constructive--it's poisonous).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SToEr_6wwN0/XFsysmucBWI/AAAAAAAAAg4/JGVWVHiwc2kiSLhLqYYytdqrxKbMYyQWACLcBGAs/s1600/like-smell-farts-1414601281.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="500" height="305" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SToEr_6wwN0/XFsysmucBWI/AAAAAAAAAg4/JGVWVHiwc2kiSLhLqYYytdqrxKbMYyQWACLcBGAs/s640/like-smell-farts-1414601281.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, <i><b>really</b></i>? You gotta go.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Stagnant energy, anything that hinders, including my and other people's harmful careless thoughts and beliefs. This is up to and including the use of the old name, because if I asked that it not be used and people keep doing so, or refuse to respect my wish to address me by my <b><i>TRUE</i></b> name for the sake of their or another's convenience, I take that as they wish me ill or they wan fi test me, and those people have <b><i>NO</i></b> place in my life.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4DozFH9dMw0/XFtIs259hbI/AAAAAAAAAh8/e9ZF0RLlOgsMuWXXX_lUL-3ut8P0DpjNACLcBGAs/s1600/you%2Bgotta%2Bgo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="240" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4DozFH9dMw0/XFtIs259hbI/AAAAAAAAAh8/e9ZF0RLlOgsMuWXXX_lUL-3ut8P0DpjNACLcBGAs/s400/you%2Bgotta%2Bgo.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, <i><b>HELL</b></i> no...๐you. ๐Gotta. ๐<i><b>GEAUX</b></i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Thoughts are things; words carry energy...and I will <b><i>not</i></b> allow that dead-body energy around me. The old name carries that sort of energy. Those limiting beliefs have that sort of energy. Any and all of that needs to go. I have tolerated these, whether they be people, places, or things for too long, and I refuse to allow it in my life anymore. 5D>3D.<br />
<br />
No more going along to get along, because that seemed to lead to trouble every time I did it (The TestosterXONE, NCC, certain business deals and purrsonal relationships). No more tolerating abusive behaviour disguised as "it's just business". No more allowing people to use me or others around me. I will trust my intuition, and yeet this stuff away from me and mine. If it even smells slightly deadly, it's gotta go.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E79UITGZ_Lk/XFs35z0wLEI/AAAAAAAAAhc/YgTNFV7iXSgvLr-o8SHVlMQf_FBo534TACLcBGAs/s1600/aladeen%2Btaking%2Bout%2Bthe%2Btrash.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="400" height="181" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E79UITGZ_Lk/XFs35z0wLEI/AAAAAAAAAhc/YgTNFV7iXSgvLr-o8SHVlMQf_FBo534TACLcBGAs/s400/aladeen%2Btaking%2Bout%2Bthe%2Btrash.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I used to have a three-strikes rule, which got whittled down to one-strike <i><b>reeeeeal</b></i> quick once I learnt I was better than that. I used to give second and third chances. I stopped doing that years ago. Realising that I was in relationships with two malignant narcs and friends with narcs--that I was <b><i>RAISED</i></b> by narcs-- has <b><i>FINALLY</i></b> taught me to guard my energy from <b><i>ANYONE</i></b> who even vaguely <b><i>looks</i></b> like they are coming for it. I will ๐cut. ๐You. ๐<b><i>OFF</i></b>.โ<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VsWd2fgUdcQ/XFswT873CmI/AAAAAAAAAgk/q_gGdUEXlc8JFJiOVgcPKeiG7tzj1CQ1gCLcBGAs/s1600/tumblr_oltzazlN5a1ts48b5o6_r1_400.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="268" height="286" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VsWd2fgUdcQ/XFswT873CmI/AAAAAAAAAgk/q_gGdUEXlc8JFJiOVgcPKeiG7tzj1CQ1gCLcBGAs/s400/tumblr_oltzazlN5a1ts48b5o6_r1_400.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm not giving anyone a gun to try to shoot me again because they missed me the first time. "Fxck" and "that"--in that order. I believe in โcuttingโ the tumours out, now. I won't live with the disease anymore; it's gotta get <b><i>cured</i></b>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LUVXAoLYpbo/XFtIIUh442I/AAAAAAAAAh0/A_nE5yluGgoPfqKgrL6EgQRzl_tDuFv4QCLcBGAs/s1600/yeet%2Bmolly.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LUVXAoLYpbo/XFtIIUh442I/AAAAAAAAAh0/A_nE5yluGgoPfqKgrL6EgQRzl_tDuFv4QCLcBGAs/s400/yeet%2Bmolly.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeet again. (Another one I had to make but I didn't save the first one. Oops. via GIPHY)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-14470429278380627332019-01-08T03:04:00.000-05:002019-01-08T03:07:36.662-05:00Public Service Announcement<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezN4TZzBJJ8/XDRRC6z0OiI/AAAAAAAAAfE/gUTeUihgiiY659ZmS-vFmM4ChBih6smrQCLcBGAs/s1600/humble%2Byourself.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="600" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezN4TZzBJJ8/XDRRC6z0OiI/AAAAAAAAAfE/gUTeUihgiiY659ZmS-vFmM4ChBih6smrQCLcBGAs/s400/humble%2Byourself.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via Board of Wisdom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
๐ฃPSA:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Promoters/Gatekeepers/Influencers:<br />
<br />
You <i><b>can't</b></i> simultaneously be supportive and dismissive of an artist.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you approach an artist verbally about your interest in them and say you will follow up...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>FOLLOW UP.</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The ball is in <i><b>your</b></i> court. Don't wait for the artist to come to you. <i><b>You</b></i> expressed interest. If you fail to follow up we will just move on, much as you would if the roles were reversed. You can't even be mad if an artist complains about your lack of professionalism.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DoB22KoT0Ns/XDRTc1K5OxI/AAAAAAAAAfc/j-S-TmCC6I4kGL5apH7_b_IfbmxyRot1wCLcBGAs/s1600/unpro%2B3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="480" height="306" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DoB22KoT0Ns/XDRTc1K5OxI/AAAAAAAAAfc/j-S-TmCC6I4kGL5apH7_b_IfbmxyRot1wCLcBGAs/s400/unpro%2B3.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via Giphy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
On the other side of that coin...artists, if you approach these people verbally and say you will contact them, do so. <i><b>You</b></i> went to <i><b>them</b></i>. Follow through. It's okay to pitch yourself to blogs and publications. How else will they know you? It is also okay to make yourself <b><i>so </i></b>known they come to you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When an artist complains once in awhile about not getting the recognition they know they <i><b>actually</b></i> (read: not <i><b>think</b></i> they do) deserve when they have been grinding forever and walking their talk, it's not always entitlement. It's reality, because people out here <i><b>still</b></i> treating the entertainment like they mean nothing, and the<i><b> first </b></i>people to bxtch about our unrest are the promoters who do their damndest to milk every indie artist for their hard earned money.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JsulScnGMvw/XDRWpd5yXyI/AAAAAAAAAf0/CNBmT2mBaFsM3euL4wwJMVqkzhsq1OWRACLcBGAs/s1600/you%2Bare%2Bnothing.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JsulScnGMvw/XDRWpd5yXyI/AAAAAAAAAf0/CNBmT2mBaFsM3euL4wwJMVqkzhsq1OWRACLcBGAs/s400/you%2Bare%2Bnothing.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Promoters be like:<br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pay you just to be on your obscure radio show or podcast? <i><b>No</b></i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pay you hundreds to be in a slot on a tour or so-called "industry showcase" that might not even be at a time when people see me? <i><b>Nope</b></i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pay you to perform for less than ten minutes at a glorified block party? <i><b>Fxck dat shxt</b></i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pay you for an interview in a magazine that pretty much was printed on your HP Envy and left in the corner of a bodega window and call it distribution? <i><b>Really</b></i>?!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
No, you're right--nobody owes us anything... but for just being human and alive we deserve respect...until we prove otherwise.<br />
<br />
We <i><b>do</b></i> have the right to vent our frustration. If you take offence, you are probably guilty.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkdrHpe-Lkw/XDRYnA__RLI/AAAAAAAAAgA/QApLRr7VwKcnaAZJQ2YcfeuLAV8Z-Zv7QCLcBGAs/s1600/guilty.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="480" height="306" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkdrHpe-Lkw/XDRYnA__RLI/AAAAAAAAAgA/QApLRr7VwKcnaAZJQ2YcfeuLAV8Z-Zv7QCLcBGAs/s400/guilty.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's prolly you. <br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-32532768667970881502018-12-30T23:36:00.000-05:002018-12-30T23:36:02.373-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 28-30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
Catching up again.<br />
<br />
Day 28: "Favourite track by an artist from New York".<br />
<br />
Oh, that's hardly fair-- I have so <i><b>many</b></i>...<br />
<br />
How about...<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jORkjHa2Ags" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>KRS-One-- "Never Give Up"</u></b><br />
<br />
But some of yawl ain't trying to hear this, though...<br />
<br />
Day 29: "Favourite track by Travis Scott".<br />
<br />
Sorry--don't have one.<br />
<br />
Day 30: "Favourite outro track to a project".<br />
<br />
I'm coming up empty. Crap.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-56023681457330231622018-12-30T03:01:00.000-05:002018-12-30T23:42:17.914-05:00Why I Choose To Buy A Fresh Yule Tree<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOaLhJXN7P0/XChid6Er3rI/AAAAAAAAAeU/Jc6V9Ga7oBwszPqLxdEO13FYnOjJrpVOwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMAG1303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="899" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOaLhJXN7P0/XChid6Er3rI/AAAAAAAAAeU/Jc6V9Ga7oBwszPqLxdEO13FYnOjJrpVOwCLcBGAs/s640/IMAG1303.jpg" width="359" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is not this year's tree but one we did awhile back that my son themed: Autumnal Frost tree.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Since I was a kid, the holidays were usually sporadic as it seemed my mother couldn't decide if she wanted to celebrate them or not. I remember seeing her give away a large bag of ornaments once. On another hand, I <b><i>do</i></b> also remember her making a rather large display of white branches and lights and buying two tiny live potted trees to place next to this, and my presents were underneath on her glass coffee table.<br />
<br />
But one thing I wholeheartedly remember is that when she <i><b>did</b></i> indulge in a tree, it was always fresh. I asked her once why didn't she get a fake one? Surely it was more practical to keep one to have when you needed it? (I was a kid, what did I know.) Her look of disdain and answer of "Eww, no" pretty much clammed me up.<br />
<br />
I couldn't argue with the wonderful smell, though, and lying underneath to look up at the branches. It's still my favourite thing to lie beneath the tree once it's up.<br />
<br />
As an adult, I got my first real big tree when I moved into my third apartment with my son. I remember how fresh and green it smelled, and a bit like oranges. I remember being happy to carry this tradition on for my boy. Technically, my first real tree was a potted one that I had in my second apartment, and we enjoyed her, but could not think of where to plant her afterward since we lived in the middle of the ghetto and I didn't drive. Ugh. I should have taken her to the park or something...<br />
<br />
I digress.<br />
<br />
I only bought a fake tree once and it was due to the fact I'd been hospitalised and wasn't released until Xmas Eve-Eve, so I hadn't much time to find a fresh one. I reluctantly grabbed a white $10 tree from Family Dollar and used that for a few years until it got <i><b>really</b></i> grody... I decided it was time for a fresh one again.<br />
<br />
When Peace came to live with us at Tha Cat Lair, we began buying a fresh tree from our local Home Depot. I loved the energy shift in the home when we did. I remember Peace asking why we didn't get a plastic one, much like I had when I was a kid. I answered the same as my mother did, LOL.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3gFNeti4I9k/XChnr-raalI/AAAAAAAAAes/g3aDQrv835gvlCc24TtDizNJHF5gz1XZwCLcBGAs/s1600/ewww.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3gFNeti4I9k/XChnr-raalI/AAAAAAAAAes/g3aDQrv835gvlCc24TtDizNJHF5gz1XZwCLcBGAs/s400/ewww.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Prolly not with this face, though. (via giphy)</div>
<br />
I <b><i>did</i></b> wonder, though, if it might not be more eco-friendly to have a fake tree. And I did what I do best next to what I really do: I researched it.<br />
<br />
I found that plastic trees are actually <b><i>not</i></b> eco-friendly or sustainable. Faux trees leave a rather large carbon footprint--twice the size of a real tree. According to the <a href="https://www.carbontrust.com/news/2013/01/christmas-tree-disposal-advice/" target="_blank">Carbon Trust</a>, a fake tree would have to be kept and reused for about ten Xmases or Yules to keep its environmental impact lower than that of a real tree. Plus a fake tree is kind of foul burnt in a landfill. A real tree can be recycled into mulch or something. I hear you can recycle or repurpose fake trees, but not sure how.<br />
<br />
So, this is why I continue and it's my clowder's preference to go with fresh trees. Do your <i><b>own </b></i>research-- go with what's right for you--make up your own mind for next year. Happy tree shopping!ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-69023479531364005252018-12-27T02:21:00.000-05:002018-12-27T02:21:32.914-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 24-27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
Got caught up in holiday cooking and merrymaking...<br />
<br />
Let's continue, shall we?<br />
<br />
Day 24: "Favourite track by an artist that deserves more recognition".<br />
I'm...gonna leave myself out of this, LOL.<br />
Hmmm....<br />
<br />
Who could I put here?<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TUZ8bTVQZAA" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>A.B.Y.S.S.-- "Queen"</u></b><br />
<br />
This artist needs more recognition, period.<br />
Oh, BTW-- she's my prima. Hope to work with her sometime.<br />
<br />
Day 25: "Favourite track to turn up to".<br />
<br />
Yeh... we don't do that in this department.<br />
<br />
Day 26: "Favourite track with a dope sample".<br />
<br />
Lemme see...<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3La9ZlsDGos" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Das EFX--"They Want EFX"</u></b><br />
<br />
This is so simple yet totally amazing.<br />
<br />
Day 27: "Favourite track by an artist you don't usually fxck with".<br />
<br />
TBH: if I don't fxck with them, why would I have a favourite?<br />
<br />
But I think I got one.<br />
<br />
It's old-school, though.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5p4QR-FstrE" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<b><u>Ice Cube-- "Wicked"</u></b><br />
<br />
I wasn't a huge fan but I fell in love with this for some reason.<br />
<br />
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-31785686810975406752018-12-23T15:22:00.000-05:002018-12-23T15:22:50.463-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Day 23<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Taking advantage of a lull in stuff to post this...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Day 23: "Favourite track that is over 8 minutes long".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, this group...<b><i>again</i></b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxgnS5k9xxk" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>Digital Underground-- "Good Thing We're Rappin"</b></u><br />
<br />
When I heard this-- I mean, really heard this for the first time, I was laughing my ass off.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-41433475876388760172018-12-22T01:16:00.000-05:002018-12-23T15:38:29.652-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 17-22<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey... I know, I <b><i>know</i></b>. Falling off. But I've been very busy with the holidays and with prepping for a show I just did. Back on track now...<br />
<br />
Day 17: "Favourite track on your favourite mixtape".<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fIcwo7T2qaw/XB2ssTL8LSI/AAAAAAAAAc8/J86bRDFWkyoKX-UgCnYJXEMs4cW1mnAEgCLcBGAs/s1600/shrug%2Bcena%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="211" data-original-width="498" height="168" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fIcwo7T2qaw/XB2ssTL8LSI/AAAAAAAAAc8/J86bRDFWkyoKX-UgCnYJXEMs4cW1mnAEgCLcBGAs/s400/shrug%2Bcena%25281%2529.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got nada. (via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Day 18: "Favourite track by Kanye West".<br />
<br />
Does something you <i><b>kinda</b></i> sorta found funny in passing count?<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6vwNcNOTVzY" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Kanye West-- Gold Digger</u></b><br />
<br />
Thought it was sorta kinda funny once upon a time. Haven't listened to it since it was a thing.<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 19: "Favourite freestyle".<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QLUtep8rESM" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>The Real Mike Wilson--Freestyle For Issac Simon</u></b><br />
<br />
Hey. I support mah peeples.<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 20: "Favourite track with more than three features".<br />
<br />
C'mon, sun... how could it <b><i>not</i></b> be this??<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q6TLWqn82J4" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>A Tribe Called Quest-- "Scenario"</b></u><br />
<br />
Dude--this shxt has three featured people but like mad verses. Bending the rules.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 21: "Favourite simp track".<br />
<br />
Okay... WT<b><i>F</i></b>. From what I understand this is:<br />
<br />
<i><b>--Simp (v): To intensively and confidently express your emotions through talking it out, listening to music, social media, etc.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
Or:<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>--A man who puts women on a pedestal when she clearly doesn't deserve it. He thinks all women are victims and they barely do any wrong. He usually does this to gain favor with women aka try to have sex with her.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
Or...<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>--(S)uckas - (I)dolizing - (M)ediocre - (P)ussy -- Basically someone who gives redundant and over the top attention to women that are of far less value than the attention or praise given. Usually the recipient of this praise is knowing of this and is taking full advantage knowing this fact.....Thus the term "sucka" is the main attribute and usually the results in the pending downfall of this kind of man. </b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
Uhmmm...<i><b>wow</b></i>. "<a href="http://nowiknow.com/wp-content/uploads/mortonsaltumbrellagirl.png" target="_blank">When it rains it pours</a>", huh? All I hear is "I can't write about anything emotional because if I do, mah boys and <i><b>errybody</b></i> gonna think I'm soft and on top of that <i><b>I</b></i> don't get no pussy myself so I'ma hate on the dude who <i><b>does</b></i>, and you know what else? I'm briny as fxck about it, so I say the dude is a sucka for some random bxtch and whipped and keep on writing a bunch of misogynistic basic shxt and that's that cuz that's the way of the <b><i>Real</i> Man</b>โข."<br />
<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "gotham";"><span style="font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -0.1px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TrVNS73D2cs/XB3U5g6HUVI/AAAAAAAAAdo/a__2_n0XRBwrVYNUcxDXt0tGRRZ9JFZWgCLcBGAs/s1600/salt%2Bintensifies.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="255" data-original-width="300" height="338" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TrVNS73D2cs/XB3U5g6HUVI/AAAAAAAAAdo/a__2_n0XRBwrVYNUcxDXt0tGRRZ9JFZWgCLcBGAs/s400/salt%2Bintensifies.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actual picture of the people who think like this. <br />
I'm-a need something to go with this salt...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xJ0vLTEGj_A/XB3VEKM1pKI/AAAAAAAAAds/t6IsHN2d4Sc4TUomphkS1KKFPzsmyA6mwCLcBGAs/s1600/tequila.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="500" height="187" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xJ0vLTEGj_A/XB3VEKM1pKI/AAAAAAAAAds/t6IsHN2d4Sc4TUomphkS1KKFPzsmyA6mwCLcBGAs/s400/tequila.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...there ya go. (via tenor)<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
FOH.<br />
<br />
<br />
Anyway...<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "gotham";"><span style="font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -0.1px;"></span></span>
<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "gotham";"><span style="font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -0.1px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "gotham";"><span style="font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -0.1px;"></span></span><br />
<br />
I...<i>guess</i> it's this...? <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_VAFpjeLOAM" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Eminem-- "Crazy In Love"</u></b><br />
<br />
It's <b><i>extremely</i></b> relatable. Totally nails the toxic relationship and gets visceral. And it meets all of the above stupid criteria.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 22: "Favourite track from the 90s".<br />
<br />
Awh, <i><b>man</b></i>...<br />
<br />
I listened to a lot of stuff and cannot pick a fave so I'm just gonna go with this:<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RijB8wnJCN0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Cypress Hill-- "Insane In The Brain"</u></b><br />
<br />
IDK. I liked shxt that was different--Cypress Hill were definitely that; even if some of the trappings they rhymed about were typical, their sound was <b><i>not.</i></b>ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-27811687023943046182018-12-16T03:44:00.000-05:002018-12-16T03:44:23.498-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 15-16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hey. Guess I really am doing these two at a time, LOL<br />
<br />
Day 15: "Favourite interlude".<br />
I know it's an intro, but eff it-- using it anyway.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cUHp6M44xpY" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>"Torture Intro"</u></b><br />
<br />
Day 16: "Favourite track that gets you pumped up".<br />
<br />
I'm not sure I have one for specifically that purrpose...<br />
<br />
...except <b><i>maaaaaybe </i></b>this.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4m842Zzsbas" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Run-DMC--"Raising Hell"</u></b><br />
<br />
I legit listen to this if I have a gig up to a few minutes before I have to go on. I've been doing this since I started rhyming.<br />
<br />
I told DMC once that I did this, and he said to me that he thought that was "inspiring".ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-53374782720459573252018-12-14T00:00:00.000-05:002019-01-07T23:52:22.468-05:00Can We All Just Get Along? IDK, Yawl.<br />
<br />
I saw a post on Facebook once that basically said that female rappers need to collaborate instead of coming for each other.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3FfYrs_jEQ/XASXKVabI7I/AAAAAAAAAZw/7VeACAQta48vvKLb6j6ZgQBSE1na3F47ACLcBGAs/s1600/giphy%2B%252818%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3FfYrs_jEQ/XASXKVabI7I/AAAAAAAAAZw/7VeACAQta48vvKLb6j6ZgQBSE1na3F47ACLcBGAs/s400/giphy%2B%252818%2529.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute, but...<br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I don't see this happening more often because<br />
<br />
A) this stupid Highlander mentality that there can be only one successful female rapper at any given time is too entrenched in the culture<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9gB1yhPXQU/XATUY_3EJPI/AAAAAAAAAaI/N2DxS1ucCMQf22Nnbh7Z97Ga8zQGt5WvwCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy%2B%252819%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="300" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9gB1yhPXQU/XATUY_3EJPI/AAAAAAAAAaI/N2DxS1ucCMQf22Nnbh7Z97Ga8zQGt5WvwCLcBGAs/s400/giphy%2B%252819%2529.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No. There is room for us all.<br />
(Even though I love this guy, Adrian Paul, come through!)<br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
B ) said attitude is exacerbated by their teams, managers, labels, and entourage; they encourage beefs like they are organic and to draw more attention because conflict sells<br />
<br />
C) said attitude is held onto by female rappers, especially ones who are going hard on the sex appeal. (Girls. You're all pretty. Cut it out. โ)<br />
<br />
D) too many fxcking cliques and elitist, exclusive attitudes<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hd5t_BNdCY/XATW_nT_5EI/AAAAAAAAAag/eDqOVhXzYCk6UBmCwBG_JLGFJLfyAl1igCLcBGAs/s1600/mean-girls1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="388" height="205" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hd5t_BNdCY/XATW_nT_5EI/AAAAAAAAAag/eDqOVhXzYCk6UBmCwBG_JLGFJLfyAl1igCLcBGAs/s400/mean-girls1.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...like these heaux.<br />
(via SOS Safety Mag)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
E) too many artists being derivative--and I use that term very facetiously--of other artists who did that shxt already. "Take that chix' style. She ain't doing nothing." "You need to do what So-N-So N'em is doing." Why do that? There's already one of So-N-So N'em. Do we need another?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDyM8jl1J_k/XAX_I_zvB9I/AAAAAAAAAbA/BVzpnQx4eqI0f-Fm1xtOY586ymlzavQTQCLcBGAs/s1600/anthony-rapp-quote-there-is-only-one-you-for-all-time.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDyM8jl1J_k/XAX_I_zvB9I/AAAAAAAAAbA/BVzpnQx4eqI0f-Fm1xtOY586ymlzavQTQCLcBGAs/s400/anthony-rapp-quote-there-is-only-one-you-for-all-time.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do that shxt.<br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
F) Because of all this, the female artists don't trust each other anyways<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qTkHj3VRFJE/XAYBQqp30OI/AAAAAAAAAbM/rnT4PQ1FdeopxP13qhdGaAHwnzM18TqxACLcBGAs/s1600/tumblr_o2s4pmvd4l1si3gq6o1_540.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="540" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qTkHj3VRFJE/XAYBQqp30OI/AAAAAAAAAbM/rnT4PQ1FdeopxP13qhdGaAHwnzM18TqxACLcBGAs/s400/tumblr_o2s4pmvd4l1si3gq6o1_540.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty much.<br />
(via Google)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Most of these broads are freaking marionettes told what to say and do. Some of them can't even write--they just sell what is written for them well enough to dupe the consumer. Their stylists mold them visually into what was the so-called successful model--irony being that <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2014/03/04/285718351/where-did-all-the-female-rappers-go?fbclid=IwAR1qz0Rd8H5Yr_TRIIBI4ARvItBPmyhMAD2UgBJnkqCof1jUIgiLGzOA9Qk" target="_blank">labels think female rappers are too high-maintenance and their beauty budget cannot be sustained</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xuJPTN92BfQ/XATX8_HysZI/AAAAAAAAAao/ZrBHajdE3Ysra4xfv5qksoOT4WWScrZuACLcBGAs/s1600/giphy%2B%252820%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="798" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xuJPTN92BfQ/XATX8_HysZI/AAAAAAAAAao/ZrBHajdE3Ysra4xfv5qksoOT4WWScrZuACLcBGAs/s400/giphy%2B%252820%2529.gif" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They walk, walk, walk and they peck, peck, peck.<br />
(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They then abandon what made people love them by presenting the "real" them and lose their fanbase a few years into their careers.<br />
<br />
Personally, I enjoy and welcome working with other women... it's just that we are seldom on the same page or I tend to be on the outside looking in. People dunno how to take me.<br />
<br />
But truth... I don't see this shxt changing, as much as I would like it to. The female rapper who lacks depth is pushing us all towards becoming an endangered species.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-36940833716203856252018-12-13T01:35:00.001-05:002018-12-13T01:35:30.482-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 12-13<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm...failing. LOL<br />
<br />
Day 12: "Favourite track by an artist from the DMV".<br />
I got bupkus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwHP3SP1yJM/XBH9gI58JjI/AAAAAAAAAcg/-tObm1K6820cwW9jF7Pd3YE7g0mb2bC5QCLcBGAs/s1600/shame.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="245" height="347" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwHP3SP1yJM/XBH9gI58JjI/AAAAAAAAAcg/-tObm1K6820cwW9jF7Pd3YE7g0mb2bC5QCLcBGAs/s400/shame.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Day 13: "Favourite track by Kendrick Lamar".<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XR7Ev14vUh8" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
"Pray For Me"ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-46105406017001050292018-12-11T00:30:00.001-05:002018-12-11T00:30:44.804-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 10-11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Y'know... I <i><b>just</b></i> noticed that "challenge" is spelled wrong in the picture...?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0cJOAn5oq0/XA9B0ubw3dI/AAAAAAAAAcI/JsguIkHDmYATiNkfVt5rmU8BUFuEAqMMQCLcBGAs/s1600/onejob.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="268" height="364" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0cJOAn5oq0/XA9B0ubw3dI/AAAAAAAAAcI/JsguIkHDmYATiNkfVt5rmU8BUFuEAqMMQCLcBGAs/s400/onejob.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You had one job, Interwebs.<br />
(via tenor)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
This day calls for "Favourite track by a <strike>2016</strike> 2017 (adjusted for year) Freshman List Artist".<br />
<br />
::goes to look::<br />
<br />
Yeh....no.<br />
Heard of a few of these artists, and...no.<br />
Don't have one at all.<br />
Fail for today!<br />
<br />
...so here's something else.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WwV2MWZ9U0o" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>De La Soul-- "Say No Go</u></b>"<br />
<br />
Might as well do Day 11 while I'm here...<br />
<br />
Day 11 calls for "Favourite R&B track".<br />
<br />
What the <i><b>hell</b></i>...<br />
Uhm....<br />
<br />
I mean, from <b><i>what</i></b> era??<br />
<br />
UGH<br />
<br />
Eff it-- here's some Prince.<br />
(Don't get pregnant.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eJaKs_E0GiA" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>Prince-- "Somebody's Somebody"</b></u>ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-34949629567729987592018-12-09T18:31:00.000-05:002018-12-09T18:31:20.216-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 8-9<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I guess I'm gonna be doing these two days at a time...?<br />
<br />
Okay, yesterday's prompt was: "Favourite track by an artist that doesn't make music anymore".<br />
<br />
Hmmmm....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dDy4bp9nKf0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>Digital Underground-- "No Nose Job"</b></u><br />
<br />
I'm prolly biased because I just listened to this the other day giving my daughter a crash course (I'm kinda known for doing this Lairside, LOL).<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 9 asks for "Favourite track for when the weather is nice".<br />
<br />
<br />
Is it jerky to put my own here?<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xpE7cqljmZg" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>ThaGataNegrra-- "Iced Tea and Selfies"</u></b><br />
<br />
<br />
I mean, it's pretty summery. At least that's what it evoked for me when I first heard the instrumental.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-41067885791067620282018-12-08T00:00:00.000-05:002018-12-09T02:01:25.685-05:00Open Letter To Whichever Con, Venue, or Event Is GuiltyDear Anime Cons, Pop Culture Cons, Venues, And Other Geeky Events:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAqSLkB5xW0/XARJifLXVgI/AAAAAAAA6dY/EqF2EA-Xc80RAy987i03q8fVAcHXeBY0QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1128" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAqSLkB5xW0/XARJifLXVgI/AAAAAAAA6dY/EqF2EA-Xc80RAy987i03q8fVAcHXeBY0QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_5894.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I posted this on IG once. Some broad tagged her g/f with"WTF is she on? LOL"<br />
I answered: "Another level. Next!"<br />
๐ธcredit: L.I.T. Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Yeh, so, I'm not visually Japanese or passable for Japanese.<br />
I can't pass the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_Paper_Bag_Test" target="_blank">Paper Bag Test</a> or be part of the <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/2020/GiveMeABreak/story?id=548303&page=1" target="_blank">Blue Vein Society</a>.<br />
<br />
I don't have the fabled "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_hair" target="_blank">good hair</a>".<br />
I'm not size 4. I don't have the <a href="http://www.groundpunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Ground-Punch-Valkyrie-Drive-Bhikkhuni-Review-2016-Header-01-e1477776347452.jpg" target="_blank">ecchi</a> body.<br />
<br />
I don't do accurate full-on cosplays because I *<i><b>am</b></i>* my own cosplay.<br />
I may not be your idea of kawaii, but frfr: <a href="https://blogs.wsj.com/japanrealtime/2013/07/23/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-kawaii/" target="_blank">Kawaii isn't *supposed* to be purrfect or the conventional beauty.</a><br />
<br />
I'm not as nerdcore as I'd like to be (haven't found the right producer who has the stones to work with me on it).<br />
I don't have the social media numbers of some of my colleagues.<br />
<br />
Yes, I *<i><b>am</b></i>* a hip-hop artist.<br />
<br />
This doesn't mean I am inappropriate, scary, that ALL my material is riddled with violence or curses or the N-word every three words, or I cannot be "family-friendly". Sure--I do have some stuff with profanity or provocative subject matter because life ain't Mr. Rogers Neighbourhood, but you will *<b><i>never</i></b>* hear me purrform any of it at a family event.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pKhMsmbj9fQ/XADTnLKTCaI/AAAAAAAAAZA/JnyZQn6QM4MkCFA5Dvv36wIMYPvSpSP9QCLcBGAs/s1600/tenor.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="244" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pKhMsmbj9fQ/XADTnLKTCaI/AAAAAAAAAZA/JnyZQn6QM4MkCFA5Dvv36wIMYPvSpSP9QCLcBGAs/s400/tenor.gif" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awh. Loved this guy.<br />
(via Tenor)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I am in my own lane, on the same highway as other people of my ilk. I know that some of you have overlooked me for something "safer", something more aesthetically pleasing...more Japanese. I have been in talks with some of you only to be ignored, and see other acts be chosen instead, who get away with using hip-hop in their music influences, and I am no worse than they are. (Yeh. I saw that.)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBkKbkQI5zU/XADcxDTpoZI/AAAAAAAAAZY/YncY9u8Cam4_dI9pXYTv5yiVAmEyLujjACLcBGAs/s1600/RoBOQL.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBkKbkQI5zU/XADcxDTpoZI/AAAAAAAAAZY/YncY9u8Cam4_dI9pXYTv5yiVAmEyLujjACLcBGAs/s400/RoBOQL.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I totally did.<br />
(via gifs.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I may not be any of the things above, but I am professional, I am good at what I do, and at least I'm not visually uninteresting.<br />
I don't think I should be mushed aside because I am not any of the above. I was still relevant to your event. It's not as if you didn't have acts there.<br />
<br />
ThaGataNegrra isn't a gimmick, and is just barely an alter ego. This is what you get all the time. I may not be as visually loud when I'm going to Walmart or whatever, but those cat ears may as well be grafted to my head because that's me. <b>ALLA</b>. <b>DAMNED</b>. <b>TIME</b>.<br />
<br />
Again: The kawaii is real, not some shxt I made up to seem interesting or appealing.<br />
The geekiness is real, not geek chic like some prominent female rappers I could name.<br />
<br />
The ears are worn because channeling totems, not because they cute. If that were the case you'd only see me with them onstage and in pix (Catch me at Shoprite and see if I'm fxcking kidding).<br />
<br />
I come to you because where *<b><i>else</i></b>* am I going to be appreciated? Certainly not with what you assume is "my kind" musically. But it's like everything else: it's okay if someone not as heavily melanated is doing it. Straight up-- if I <b><i>could</i></b> pass the paper bag test...you would be all over me.<br />
<br />
Deal with that for a minute. Marinate in it.<br />
<br />
<br />
A lot of you "nerdy" promoters are fxcking guilty of this harsh fact. Don't think I don't look at your pictures of your events. I do.<br />
<br />
I have been lied to numerous times by promoters to deter me from participating in events-- any thing from "The dj doesn't have a mic" to "we don't have the space".<br />
<br />
I have been straight ignored by photographers at events for whatever reason.<br />
<br />
I've heard some people were afraid I'd outshine them so they didn't book me, which...what the actual hell? <b><i>REALLY</i></b>?<br />
<br />
In some cases, I'm pretty sure my name has been smeared and rumours spread to cast doubt on me. If you listened or entertained any thoughts that they were true, for even one second, you are an asshole. Yeh--I *<b><i>said</i></b>* it. You should have come to me and asked yourself.<br />
<br />
Yawl cannot have it both ways. Do *<b><i>not</i></b>* smile in my face then stab me in the back. At least have the decency to let me see the knife coming.<br />
<br />
That said, I'm gonna thank those who took a chance on me and wasn't scared off by anything. I know that has changed now for a lot of you. It is what it is. I'll live. As I've said before, I don't expect you to get me now.<br />
<br />
Maybe you'll see me again. Maybe you won't. Still going to be me with or without you.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-87663111988128693852018-12-07T00:54:00.000-05:002018-12-07T00:54:36.908-05:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 6-7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey... late posting this. Ugh. Preoccupied with rehearsing (read: saying the words over and over in my head). May as well do two days and get it over with...<br />
<br />
Prompt for Day 6: "Favourite track by Drake".<br />
<br />
Uhm...how bout <i><b>none</b></i>?<br />
No, srsly-- I don't have one.<br />
<br />
Prompt for Day 7: "Favourite track that uses Auto-Tune".<br />
<br />
Not sure I have one of these...<br />
Wait--this kinda counts: <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w4s6H4ku6ZY" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>Far East Movement-- "Like A G6".</u></b><br />
<br />
N4N, when I first heard this I couldn't stop listening to it. Aaaaallll that 808.<br />
<br />
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-68529658994935723252018-12-05T17:21:00.001-05:002022-07-20T15:29:05.811-04:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Day 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbo/sOFVBCqz-BchD7GoVqTXZdce7CaM8-4zgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Here we are at day five...<br />
<br />
Today's prompt calls for "Favourite track by an artist from Atlanta".<br />
Well, it doesn't say "artist that *lives* in Atlanta, so I can't pick my brother... but guess what--?<br />
<br />
Gonna post his song ANYWAY.<br /><br />
<br />
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/2mPDPD9SStnUaZX5FfRWZD?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<b><u>Razi (aka PoppaRazi)-- "<a href="https://genius.com/Popparazi-mc-producer-the-feeling-lyrics" target="_blank">The Feeling</a>"</u></b><br />
<br />
<br />
Okay, down to business...<br />
<br />
Here's the real entry.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fVyVIsvQoaE" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><u>OutKast-- "B.O.B."</u></b>ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-7521236628325470912018-12-04T00:39:00.000-05:002020-04-20T23:58:48.599-04:0030-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge Days 1-4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbk/50hK1juy2FQy8NwnyeFa-cww50Dyu1p7gCLcBGAs/s1600/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwdLjaKgV5k/XAYCpdoSkeI/AAAAAAAAAbk/50hK1juy2FQy8NwnyeFa-cww50Dyu1p7gCLcBGAs/s640/a58f7c5456183794ef6fff50c84937e417347821_hq.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So, it's three days into December, and I attempted something similar last year. I thought I'd try something a little more specific to my genre, so here it is: the 30-Day Hip-Hop Song Challenge. It's a year old, but eff it.<br />
<br />
I'm prolly gonna fail a <b><i>lot </i></b>of this because I just haven't been paying a lot of attention lately to my genre as I'm not too keen on what direction it's taking. Weird, I know. But it's like family. You are a part of it, but you don't have to be down with whatever they're doing.<br />
<br />
Come to that, I'm not sure I <i><b>can</b></i> do all of this at all. But then, it wouldn't be a challenge, would it?<br />
<br />
I'm doing days 1-4 to play catch up. And apologies in advance if you get double posts on Fridays, because I have regular blogs scheduled.<br />
<br />
Day One: "Favourite intro track to a project".<br />
<br />
Ugh. Uhm...<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/355230473&color=%23ff00c7&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>De La Soul-- "Intro", "3 Feet High and Rising"</b></u><br />
<br />
IDK. This is just the goofiest intro ever. It has an amazing level of "WTH?!" factor going for it, which is what makes it so endearing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day Two: "Favourite track on your favourite album".<br />
<br />
That's hard. What even <i><b>is</b></i> my favourite hip-hop album?<br />
<br />
I think I can pick <i><b>one</b></i> of my favourites. I'm warning you: most of these are like Golden Era af because that's my fave time. And prolly weird af too...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UZbvZ4CCsps" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>Beastie Boys-- "Shadrach", "Paul's Boutique"</b></u><br />
<br />
I wore this album out. I had tracks that I loved more than others, but this one was definitely one of my faves. So many people slept on this album.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day Three: "Favourite track of <strike>2017 </strike> 2018 so far".<br />
<br />
(I<b><i> did</i></b> say it was a year old.)<br />
<br />
Also hard. Like I said, haven't been paying attention...<br />
<br />
Okay--you're gonna think this is a cheat but it really isn't.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>The Real Mike Wilson--"Blk Jesus"</u></b><br />
<br />
So effin' <b><i>what</i></b> he's mah boy. This track here kills a lotta shxt out there. Deal with it.<br />
<br />
<br />
Day Four: "Favourite remix to a track".<br />
<br />
Here's one.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4bemH7BaZns" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<u><b>Naughty By Nature-- "Uptown Anthem"</b></u><br />
<br />
I guess you could <i><b>technically</b></i> call this a remix, since the original mix did not have that "naughty" sample in it. IDKY, but that one tiny thing made this track better to me. It gave it a bit of purrsonality.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-25776276005628265742018-11-30T00:36:00.000-05:002018-11-30T00:36:25.375-05:00Open Letter To My "Peers"Dear Local Hip-Hop Artists and Purists And Those Who Had Big Chat On What I Do:<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UdHNrgnb1Aw/XADL1_cKzOI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/qNH2sUU0GCMnG-ZkqTHuHtF9ui1pHzhEgCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy%2B%25282%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UdHNrgnb1Aw/XADL1_cKzOI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/qNH2sUU0GCMnG-ZkqTHuHtF9ui1pHzhEgCLcBGAs/s400/giphy%2B%25282%2529.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty much.<br />(via Black World Films)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Yes, my paws are on a different path from yours.<br />
That <b><i>hardly </i></b>makes me any less valid.<br />
I'm of a different breed.<br />
<br />
I come from a school half of you younger artists know nothing about. A different code that many of you spat upon because those before you who knew better spat upon it to stay relevant and not look "stupid" in front of their/yer boys.<br />
<br />
And I was <i><b>never</b></i> understood so I don't expect you to get it now.<br />
<br />
I knew what I was doing, I knew my mission, and if you think that what I did was worthless--think again.<br />
<br />
I knew that I was on a hard mission to have folx remember what the purrpose of the MC was and still could be. I haven't forgotten. The *<i><b>rest</b></i>* of you have.<br />
<br />
Oh, BTDubs:<br />
<br />
Did *<b><i>you</i></b>* get scouted for a <a href="http://eastloshigh.com/" target="_blank">popular show</a>?<br />
Did they use *<i><b>your</b></i>* music in <a href="http://eastloshigh.com/category/watch-full-episode/full-episode-season-2/" target="_blank">two</a> <a href="http://eastloshigh.com/category/watch-full-episode/full-episode-season-3/" target="_blank">seasons</a>?<br />
Did LA Mag's Blog include *<b><i>you</i></b>* in a <a href="https://www.lamag.com/culturefiles/four-musical-artists-on-east-los-high-you-need-to-hear/" target="_blank">list of artists you should hear</a>?<br />
Are *<b><i>you</i></b>* collecting royalties from it?<br />
<br />
Lemme know, nuh...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrHk1nM70Y/XAB363ABENI/AAAAAAAAAXw/lM9Mxck4pJEEAurrUsx170QVc8JuibA-wCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="262" data-original-width="480" height="217" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZrHk1nM70Y/XAB363ABENI/AAAAAAAAAXw/lM9Mxck4pJEEAurrUsx170QVc8JuibA-wCLcBGAs/s400/giphy.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via Giphy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Are you versatile and flexible? Prolly not. "Flexible" does not equal being able to rhyme about bxtches in one track, hoes in another, and weed in the next, and knowing whether to use the hard ER in that N-word yawl like to throw around so much. "Flexible" does not mean "do I wear the snapback to the front or back? Do I swagger or do I just stand there onstage and hold my balls?" "Do I come for all the competition with venom and diss trax because I need to prove <i><b>I'm</b></i> the baddest bxtch out there cuz there can only be one?"<br />
<br />
Yup. That's that <b><i>REAL</i></b> hip-hop (sarcastic font *<i><b>heavily</b></i>* on).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upuioFh_-ww/XAB4sKJioyI/AAAAAAAAAX4/TIxxwzgj9ek_kwi_4JRMSt9TEL7GD1zYQCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy%2B%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="245" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upuioFh_-ww/XAB4sKJioyI/AAAAAAAAAX4/TIxxwzgj9ek_kwi_4JRMSt9TEL7GD1zYQCLcBGAs/s400/giphy%2B%25281%2529.gif" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah-huh. Sure.<br />(via Giphy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
See, my flex is what you *<b><i>haven't</i></b>* seen. Yawl too fxcking judgmental. Yawl was so busy looking at the ears, the hair and the gear that you just dismissed my ability altogether.<br />
<br />
(I'm not talking to yawl con folx and event planners...that's a whole other post. I might have words for yawl, too, so be patient.)<br />
<br />
I may not have been worthy to be doing yawl's shows, interview segs, and whatever the fxck else yawl came up with to clique up strong, but I know who <b><i>I </i></b>am and what I bloody stand for.<br />
<br />
๐๐พI. ๐๐พLIVE. ๐๐พ IN.๐๐พMY. ๐๐พTRUTH.<br />
<br />
Can you really say the same?<br />
The kawaii is real, not some shxt I made up to seem interesting.<br />
The geekiness is real, not geek chic like some prominent female rappers I could name.<br />
<br />
The ears are worn because channeling totems, not because they cute. If that were the case you'd only see me with them onstage and in pix (catch me at Shoprite and see if I'm fxcking kidding).<br />
<br />
And what I write is real, not manufactured for the fxcking masses. I didn't visually or musically genre-jump to seem fresh and new. Influences abound because I <i><b>actually</b></i> listened to and liked that music/those clothes.<br />
<br />
I didn't bite off another's whole lyrical style like some mainstream artists and then win awards for it, and get praise for being "real". I *<b><i>stayed</i></b>* real from the jump.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Nobody</i></b> cosigned me.<br />
<br />
I'd give you my kicks to walk in but they might fit funny and not be your style. They're custom...and floss free.<br />
<br />
Living in your truth *<i><b>IS</b></i>* hip-hop.<br />
And that's all I've <i><b>ever </b></i>done from the get-go.<br />
Maybe you should re-evaluate yourselves and live in yours...not what you *<i><b>think</b></i>* is yours.ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-87775481770800642502018-09-08T22:57:00.000-04:002018-09-08T22:57:02.983-04:00On "The Industry"...Someone said to me recently, whilst mansplaining and making the bitter mistake of assuming that I was some naive neophyte, that I "didn't understand The Industry" I'm "trying to break into". Said it to me because I'd stated that a song that's out right now is rather lazy songwriting.๐น<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2MaO-g5gKQ/W5REyVY9JXI/AAAAAAAAAWc/A6t-47LKV_MEKlttYLVNobXK-Kg5KrvwwCLcBGAs/s1600/raw%2B%25287%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="244" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2MaO-g5gKQ/W5REyVY9JXI/AAAAAAAAAWc/A6t-47LKV_MEKlttYLVNobXK-Kg5KrvwwCLcBGAs/s1600/raw%2B%25287%2529.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Really, dude?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Here's the thang, though, Nancy.<br />
๐๐พI'm. ๐๐พNot. ๐๐พTrying. ๐๐พTo. ๐๐พBreak. ๐๐พInto. ๐๐พThe. ๐๐พIndustry.<br />
<br />
NTM I've probably ate, slept, and shat more understanding about music facts, knowledge, and trivia than that person could <b><i>ever</i></b> fathom. That person doesn't realise that the business has <b><i>changed</i></b>, or they wouldn't be so reliant on the machinations of "The Industry"-- or as <a href="http://schwillyfamilymusicians.com/author/carloscastillo/" target="_blank">Carlos Castillo</a> would say, "the in-DUH-stry".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb46Tq0ArF4/W5SJNrHmsSI/AAAAAAAAAW8/48cH5B9DQZsWMH5OkjGoN-q_eTbYNtgTgCLcBGAs/s1600/kma%2B%252818%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb46Tq0ArF4/W5SJNrHmsSI/AAAAAAAAAW8/48cH5B9DQZsWMH5OkjGoN-q_eTbYNtgTgCLcBGAs/s320/kma%2B%252818%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Eff The Industry.<br />
<br />
Indies have proven time and time and time again that they don't <b><i>need</i></b> them. They can make a living on their own, and fame is just a bonus.<br />
<br />
I'm about making a living, and doing what I love. I'm doing all the administration for my family's label with very little, so they need to go to the State Farm Arena or the Superdome, walk in, and have AAAAAAALLLLLL the seats. Any seats they want. And don't get comfy, because they will get a rather rude awakening.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg3NYd8WaNw/W5SK55mKLZI/AAAAAAAAAXI/ltNSQQBb-dMcR1IjacFfzEpIX8ZxBC6qgCLcBGAs/s1600/wake%2Bup18%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="195" data-original-width="346" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg3NYd8WaNw/W5SK55mKLZI/AAAAAAAAAXI/ltNSQQBb-dMcR1IjacFfzEpIX8ZxBC6qgCLcBGAs/s320/wake%2Bup18%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-47694889007113412872018-09-04T19:40:00.003-04:002018-09-04T19:46:18.637-04:00It Me...Hey...<br />
<br />
So, long time no hear from...<br />
<br />
I apologise. <b><i>So</i></b> much stuff in my personal life has been going on. You wouldn't believe it.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I'm gonna --<b><i>again</i></b>-- try to keep up with this freaking blog.<br />
<br />
For the next few posts I'm gonna repost some of my Facebook statuses that probably<b><i> shooouuuld</i></b> have been blog posts, LOL. I tend to get into these stages of thought where I'll just say something that was lingering there. They might make brief blog posts, though.<br />
<br />
Get me and you back in each other's spaces...if you want.<br />
<br />
I <b><i>did</i></b> miss you.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDDW0JpT--Q/W48VvjntU9I/AAAAAAAAAWA/2AOp7j7KYl03rh3SQ_77tdhZGJd5wIPhgCLcBGAs/s1600/200w_d.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDDW0JpT--Q/W48VvjntU9I/AAAAAAAAAWA/2AOp7j7KYl03rh3SQ_77tdhZGJd5wIPhgCLcBGAs/s320/200w_d.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come closer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7411769872494701622.post-20462565861774873592017-12-31T15:01:00.001-05:002022-07-20T16:52:51.241-04:0030-Day Music Challenge: Days 27-30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kU3u1_xbqC8/WiD1EvVIkPI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/4M7jRvS--zE6xQP0skngf8wJX79muLxLACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/23231264_10214657501737344_4072691753122236025_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kU3u1_xbqC8/WiD1EvVIkPI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/4M7jRvS--zE6xQP0skngf8wJX79muLxLACPcBGAYYCw/s400/23231264_10214657501737344_4072691753122236025_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I SO fell off. No wifi.<br />
Anyway...gonna keep this as succinct as possible...it's New Years Eve!<br />
<br />
Day 27: a song that breaks your heart.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TR3Vdo5etCQ" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
No Doubt--" Don't Speak".<br />
I CANNOT WITH THIS SONG.<br />
<br />
Day 28: a song by an artist whose voice you love.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-Fzv-dbiJMM" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Josie and the Pussycats--"Pretend to be Nice". Sung by Kay Hanley of Letters To Cleo.<br />
<br />
Day 29: a song you remember from your childhood.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Eb8ALxDFV6Y" width="560"></iframe>
George Kranz--"Din Daa Daa". Cousin used to play this a lot.<br />
<br />
Day 30: a song that reminds you of yourself.<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PTgzMGWra4s" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Nirvana-- "Been A Son".<br />
<br />ThaGataNegrra:[redacted because petty people]http://www.blogger.com/profile/12002237229851952105noreply@blogger.com0