NJ Snowden's "In Canada"

Blueprint for Life

I came across this amazingly inspirational video in my research project on First Nation's Hip Hop. Take some time and watch it. It will make your day brighter!

Bob Marley Would be 66 Today

While talking to a coworker of mine last Friday, we both concluded that Bob Marley is one of the few pop artists who fits into that unique category of being universally loved. I'm not sure is there has ever been a performer who is as much loved by the critics as he is love by popular culture.

Even many years after his death, you can still hear many of Bob Marley's hits being played on a consistent basis on the radio and television. Corporation use his message to get us to buy things and political candidates use his songs to ensure us that they are not like the rest of them. But beyond all of these soundbites and stereotypes that pop culture enforced upon this man's legacy, Bob Marley will continue to be a universally loved musician for his simple, yet powerful message. Sure it may be a message that often gets distorted or even marginalized, but it is hard to argue that this man from the little island of Jamaica has not changed the way many people view the world and popular music.

I am always reluctant to associate the word "icon" with a performer, because that is a word that is associated with someone far after their best work is behind them. Furthermore, great artists never ventures out to become an icon; they simple do what they are so good at and watch while the masses flock to them.

After all these years, I don't believe that Bob Marley would be happy with what pop culture has turned him into. Instead of becoming the voice against injustice and imperialism, we have bought and sold him into a jukebox for dance floors and car commercials. yet, by looking beyond all of this and seeing his music for what it is, it is important to celebrate his amazing voice and the powerful message that it brings.







EDJ

Howard Zinn Died a Year Ago Today

He may not have been a world famous artist that traveled the world and performed to stadiums of fans, but there is no doubt in my mind that Howard Zinn has been one of the most influential sources for artists around the world. His classic book, A People's History of the United States has inspired many people to continue to lift up their voice against tyranny and work toward the common good for all. His message is as powerful after his death as it was during his incredible life.

Howard died from a cardiac arrest while exercising in a swimming pool one year ago today, but his spirit was not taken in there; it can be found in his dozens of essays, books and plays that all praise the amazing accomplishments of human beings. He will forever be remembered as a great leader and documenter of the human condition in the face of incredible odds.

If you haven't read anything by Howard Zinn, you are truly missing out. He was an incredible man and an incredible writer. His world have inspired me in so many way and encouraged me to never give up on humanity because in the end, things like justice, compassion, understanding and love always find the light of day.

We love you Howard!

A Heart Warmer

This video warmed my heart. I hope it does the same for you.



EDJ

Once

I watched this movie last night and I must say that I think I enjoyed it more the second time around than the first. I think this film fell victim to too much commercial hype during it's release and I think a lot of people were disappointed because it didn't fit into much of the Hollywood format. While it is definitely a musical, it is also a highly realistic depiction of the reality and challenges of everyday life. If you haven't seen it yet, you should... it's a keeper.

Lessons I've learned in 2010:

a) Never trust a boss who hires his girlfriend
b) Good bosses bring people together; bad bosses create wedges between people
c) Always read the fine print
d) Every problem is a blessing in disguise
e) People come and go, but friends and family are forever
f) Love becomes stronger when it is challenged
g) Some people are full of darkness. Don't let their darkness dim your light
h) There is no better feeling in the world than to love unconditionally
i) Forgiveness means moving on
j) Life is fragile, love is endless
k) Don't be afraid to ask for help
l) There are many paths to achieving a dream. When one ends, another begins
m) Skills are like tools, the more you have the more you can do
n) Don't let people with ulterior motives tell you that you are not good enough
o) It doesn't matter how long it takes, as long as you are always moving toward your goal
p) Ignorance is contagious
q) Answers often present themselves on their own
r) Don't react to people's words. Always think before you say anything
s) Family is your bond to the past and the future
t) The Leafs suck and will probably suck for many years to come. Live with it.
u) "Me time" can be done anywhere. Even on the bus/train
v) Cat are complicated animals
w) The holidays are for treating yourself
x) When an opportunity presents itself, take it or someone else will
y) Fine stout is a beautiful thing
z) If people don't like something about you that's their problem, not yours

Happy 2011!

Patti Smith is 64 Today

Patti Smith, the godmother of Punk rock, is 64 today. I was lucky enough to see Patti and her band perform on her 60th birthday in New York City and I was amazed at the energy and life that she poured into that performance. I even got to meet Lenny Kay after the show and talk about the old days of New York City punk!

Here's a clip of that show.



Happy birthday Patti!

EDJ

New Girl Talk Album for Free at Illegal-art.net

Want to get the new Girl Talk album? If so, why would you buy it like a sucka when you could download it for free at illegal-art.net. For anyone who doesn't know, illegal-art.net is an amazing website that allows you to download the work of some of the best turntablists in the world for free. They ask for nothing in return, except that you enjoy the album. What more could you ask for?

Follow this link to check the website out:

http://illegal-art.net/shop/

EDJ