Be Glitterati

La Ronde Poster

2012-02-02T01:18:00.001-04:00

Some of you might remember some posts I made on Twitter and Facebook about drawing naughty things. Well, those drawings turned into a full on original painting for this poster. This was easily one of the most fun projects I've ever worked on. Thank you to DalTheatre for letting me be free to swag out once again. Oh and check out the show. You know you want to you pervy pervs you.

Sweeney Todd Poster Alternate Art

2012-01-30T01:15:00.001-04:00

As mentioned in a previous post. Here is the alternate art for the Sweeney Todd poster we designed for The Dalhousie Department of Music. This version is a little less direct and wasn't connecting as well as the version the client ultimately went for but I had so much fun making this title that I think it's worth sharing. What do you think? Get out and see the show from February 2-5.

Pre-Shrunk 2012

2012-01-29T23:58:00.000-04:00

As part of my attempt to push my creative limits as far as possible I submitted a painting into the Argyle Fine Art 2012 Pre-Shrunk show and it was accepted! I have a sneak peak of it below. On the real... You can easily find a whole shot of it online but you should really get your lazy butt down to 1559 Barrington Street in Halifax and check out mine and all the other pieces in person. Let doooo it 2012.

Glitterati Duane on Background Noise

2012-01-15T03:09:00.000-04:00

I had a chance to stop in and chat with the wild boys of the Background Noise Podcast! We got to talk about the Be Glitterati line, my background, a new project that I have in the works and a bunch of funny stuff from the past week. Check out the show here.

Sweeney Todd Poster

2012-01-12T14:43:00.000-04:00

Poster I designed for the Dalhousie University Department of Music. Doing the research for this one was really fun! I have an alternate version that I might upload. We'll see.

That's Gayngsta Painting

2012-01-05T00:57:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking about how modern society perceives males, their roles and how those roles have shifted. As a result, this painting emerged from my subconscious. At the most basic level, this painting started out as an image of a white male in a collared shirt. I then removed his shirt and added rainbow glasses and my perception changed. My perception changed again when I added a neck tattoo and tattooed tear. Is he heterosexual or homosexual? Is he a thug or just a guy with tattoos? Surely homosexuals can be thugs too though, so is he a homosexual thug? This is the weird shit that runs through my mind. Yes, I know... I recently had this on display at the Dalhousie Student, Staff, Faculty and Alumni Exhibition.

Jaro - Faddah Jah (Possessed) Video

2011-11-22T16:16:00.001-04:00

New video from Jaro's Cherubim mixtape. I really like the visual style he's using here. On a side note. he wrote and directed this. Pure talent.

Be Glitterati 2011-12 Look Book

2011-11-16T13:03:00.001-04:00

Check it out. At long last the Be Glitterati look book and store are live. Hit me up about any items not displayed in the store that you might be interested in.

"Be Glitterati is a t-shirt line born from the daily influences of Bermuda born, Halifax based designer and artist Duane Jones. The inspiration for this line includes everything from rap, culture, depression, to happiness and sex.

The glitterati are known as the fashionable set of society but we consider the glitterati to be anyone on the grind who will stop at nothing to fulfill their dreams. The way we see it: Anyone can “Be Glitterati”."

Jaro - Cherubim

2011-11-16T02:09:00.001-04:00

I'm almost a week late but cut me some slack, I've been busy okaaay! Anyway. Cherubim is a new mixtape from my man Jaro. Jaro is currently based out of Van City but we met as kids in Bermuda. I think we might have even had child-hood beef :). Jaro also spent some time in Halifax as member of the group, The Chronicles. My dude has now matured into a great artist that has been one of the few that I've seen to make hip hop that maintains a strong Bermudian identity without sounding "American". I think that the project is dope and feels authentic, beyond just a dude spitting slick bars. According to him, Cherubim is only a short preview of what's to come so we'll definitely be checkin for his next project. Here are some of my favs from the tape.

4. Purple Kushion by TypeHunDread

8. Tell Me If You're Down To Fly by TypeHunDread
2. Rise N Grind by TypeHunDread

Download the whole mixtape over at Hip Hop Vancouver.

Blood Wedding Poster

2011-11-08T01:21:00.000-04:00

For my latest poster design for DalTheatre I decided to channel my inner Picasso while keeping the look consistent with my previous designs for this season. I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. Based on the research I did for this design, this looks to be an exciting show!

Glitterati Duane X Movember 2011

2011-11-01T22:53:00.000-03:00

A lot of people may not know this about me but cancer has had a major effect on my family, my wife's side and mine. Every year I pledge to so something about that and never do. This year I'm getting my mo on for Movember, hoping that I can raise at least a couple of dollars to help fight this disease. Donate to my page here. Thanks to my boy Dave for nudging me m-over the edge.

Mz Malz - I Do It For My City (Video)

2011-10-26T08:41:00.000-03:00

I love to see artists that we've connected with keep it moving. Props for the new video and song!

Trip Of A Lifetime - Cliff Jumping in Bermuda

2011-10-25T09:46:00.000-03:00

I'm kinda late with this but I still think it's worth posting since I've probably watched it ten times since coming across it on Twitter last week. Shreddy Times was invited to Bermuda to do their thing with a local dude named Drew handling the filming and editing. I grew up on Bermuda's North Shore where jumping off rocks was a big part of growing up so this video takes me back to a much simpler time in my life. I was afraid of heights so I never jumped off of any of the big cliffs that you see in this video but I can't lie, watching them have so much fun makes me miss home a lot.

The Genesis – Jaro album teaser video

2011-10-24T10:29:00.000-03:00

Teaser video for my man Jaro of The Chronicles's solo album.

Be Glitterati Available At Fresh Goods

2011-10-20T00:15:00.000-03:00

Big tings a gwan! Starting an apparel line has been a dream of mine for about 10 years now and thanks to some support from my family and some hard work it's finally becoming a reality. We have officially launched the Be Glitterati t-shirt line and have the first two of many designs to come for sale at Fresh Goods Sneakers and Apparel in Halifax. Here's the brand's mission statement. (For now anyway)

"Be Glitterati is a clothing brand that draws from the daily inspiration of Halifax, NS based designer and artist Duane Jones. The glitterati are described as the fashionable people of society but we apply that word to anyone on the grind and will stop at nothing to fulfill their dreams. Be Great. Be Grand. Be Glitterati."

Shown below are a close up of the "This is my Rifle" shirt in an alternate colour and a Glitterati bookmark that we are using as a Tag..

Graphite Illustration - Uncle Bobby

2011-10-18T23:37:00.000-03:00

Illustration that I did of my uncle and cousin as part of his birthday gift this year.

While We're Young Poster

2011-10-08T22:32:00.000-03:00

My latest poster design for DalTheatre. Now that I've had a chance to step back and see this poster objectively I'm not super happy with how I designed it but I love the illustration. The illustration took me way than I estimated it would but I think that it was worth it. Hopefully the patrons do too. Make sure you get out and see this play. It should be great!

DalTheatre Season 2011-12 Brochure

2011-10-06T01:20:00.000-03:00

I had the pleasure of working on the season brochure/poster for DalTheatre again this year. The great thing about working on these projects is that I really get to push myself as an illustrator. I'm actually finding that the amount of design time I put into this work pales in comparison to the time that goes into planning and art work creation. Shown below is the final art work and some of the process sketches that helped me to the design solution I chose.

We knew it was coming but...

2011-10-05T22:24:00.000-03:00

There's nothing that I can say that I haven't read and heard echoed around the internet a billion times today. I'm speechless.

McKenzie Eddy & GLC - Young Platinum (Free Album)

2011-08-17T20:48:00.000-03:00

Bluroc artist and employee McKenzie Eddy teams up with GLC for this laid back free album. I love the genre blending that happens here and the fact that it doesn't feel forced like the typical radio crafted bullshit collaborations dominating top 40. Also look out for features from, Camron, Vado, Murs while Ski Beats kills it on the production side. Check below for the track list. Download Young Platinum here.

The Giving Tree For Sale

2011-08-11T13:06:00.000-03:00

I am pleased to announce the beginning of a new relationship between Glitterati Communications and artflakes.com. Artflakes is a company based in Berlin that sells art prints online and has asked me to join their roster of artists. My illustration, "The Giving Tree" is the first of my prints up for sale. Purchase The Giving Tree here!

Glitterati Duane x Fresh Goods

2011-08-04T15:14:00.004-03:00

My piece inspired by Mal's song, "The Giving Tree" is currently on display at Fresh Goods Sneakers and Apparel in Halifax. These guys carry some dope brands including, Nooka, G-Shock, The Hundreds and Shwood. They also support local brands like my personal favorite, The Quarrelsome Yeti and hopefully Be Glitterati *wink *wink. If you're in the city and want some fresh stuff that you can't find at the mall check them out at 1491 South Park Street ASAP!

4 Years With Mrs. Glitterati

2011-07-28T09:32:00.003-03:00

Photo by Emma Rose Photography

Man time flies. It's hard to believe that it's been four years, 2 kids and a house later. Many people don't know this, but my wife was instrumental in the formation of Glitterati Communications in the early days. Today she mostly acts as my financial advisor / life coach ( Love you dear :) ), but without her there would be no us, so she deserves some props for that. I love you and I'm looking forward to spending the next 40+ years with you!

New Glitterati Communications Portfolio Site

2011-07-21T15:04:00.000-03:00

A few months back I decided to start tinkering with Cargo to see what it was all about. Cargo is an online portfolio hosting service that gives users more freedom to decide how they would like their work presented. Fast-forward to today and I have decided that for now, placing the bulk of my portfolio on Cargo is the best way to go. I'm really happy with the way it turned out and am looking forward to hearing any feedback. I will still use beglitterati.com as the home base for my online adventures so you can continue to visit there. Below, are a few more screens from the new site including a shot of a t-shirt from my Be Glitterati line. Visit the new portfolio here.

Poets 4 Change Sketch

2011-06-26T15:11:00.001-03:00

This is a little note from my sketch book that I stumbled across the other day. I designed a poster for Poets 4 Change a few months back and painted this character for use as the focal point of the design. The client decided to go in a different direction but there is something about this that I still think is worth sharing.

S.K.Y Streetball Syndicate In Bermuda 2011

2011-06-22T03:12:00.001-03:00

The S.K.Y. Streetball Syndicate was in Bermuda again earlier this year for an exhibition basketball game against a local team. Thus video contains some highlights from their latest visit. I remember watching some of the S.K.Y. guys like "Half Man Half Amazin" and "Spyda" on the And 1 Mixtapes back in the day and being excited that streetballers were getting props for the skills that they bring to the basketball court. Seeing my brother play with them blows me away (He's the guy from the Bermuda team who threw the alley-oop at the 2:09 mark). Shout out to the Bermudian guys that played (Including my bro) as they head to Isle of Wight today to defend their championship title in the Island Games.

Glitterati Communications Ad

2011-06-18T16:08:00.000-03:00

Glitterati Communications Ad featured in the 2011 Black Business Initiative client directory.

Escape From The Toy Box up for scoring on Threadless

2011-06-16T12:48:00.000-03:00

I've uploaded another t-shirt design to Threadless based on the previously posted Snuggle Bunny t-shirt I did for my daughter. It's still up for voting so if would be so kind as to bless me with some $5's I'd be indebted to you forever! Vote for "Escape From The Toy Box" here.

Snuggle Bunny Crew T-Shirt

2011-06-15T23:55:00.001-03:00

This is a t-shirt design based on my oldest daughter's crew of "Snuggle Bunnies". The original pink Snuggle Bunny has been her favorite toy since she was a baby so it's only fitting that I do some artistic renditions of him. To my dismay, my daughter got a paint stain on the shirt within an hour of wearing it for the first time. But at least she did it in the pursuit of art... right? I have another Snuggle Bunny illustration in progress that I will upload soon!

Second Chance 2011 Graduation

2011-06-10T15:58:00.002-03:00

Earlier this year, my friend Finley asked me to speak to a class from the Center of Entrepreneurship and Education's Second Chance program that he was in charge of about my background as a Graphic Designer and a business owner. The Second Chance Program participants have had problems with the law and are in the program to turn their lives around and become more entrepreneurial and employable. When I spoke to them, I hoped that I would be able to inspire them with my story and show them that there are young, visible minorities (A good percentage of them are too) doing positive things in the community.

However, after attending their graduation and hearing about some of their stories the opposite happened. They inspired me. I've faced a lot of the same challenges as most people in this economy and sometimes I feel like the deck is continually stacked against me. Then when I think about the challenges these guys have to overcome on a daily basis my issues seem minor at best. Andre Levingston, owner of the Halifax Rainmen and co-founder of the newly formed Canadian Basketball League gave the keynote speech and woke up something inside me. He applauded the group for their completion of the program and for raising $1000 for the Community YMCA and encouraged them to keep dreaming, dream big and to not be afraid to ask for help. He made me realize that I am not dreaming big enough. I have realistic aspirations for myself and for Glitterati that I am actively pursuing but I also have some far fetched "dreams" that I tell myself will never come true so I more or less give them up. Maybe it's time I let myself believe that those "dreams" ARE possible and ignore those that doubt me (Including myself). I thank him and the Second Chance 2011 graduating class for reminding me that it's still ok to dream.

The Court

2011-06-08T23:06:00.000-03:00

Just a typical day at the court with my brothers.

Duane Circa 1999

2011-06-03T15:40:00.002-03:00

Me sitting on my metallic orange Typhoon back in my Bermuda College days. Deal With It Fool! This pic brings back memories.

Glitterati x Black Tournament

2011-05-25T09:04:00.002-03:00

Glitterati illustration featured on the 2011 Provincial Black Basketball Association tournament passes.

J is for Junkie

2011-05-25T08:49:00.001-03:00

J is for Junkie is a really powerful documentary by Corey Davis and presented by Greedmont TV about some of the homeless and drug addicted of Atlanta. Corey became fascinated by this subject matter through his absent father who is also a drug addict.

Overgrowth - Threadless Submission

2011-05-24T10:05:00.002-03:00

Hey guys. I recently submitted a t-shirt design to threadless. Do me a favor and drop me some 5s!! You can vote for my design at threadless.com.

Eternia & MoSS "TO THE FUTURE"

2011-03-24T22:46:00.001-03:00

My girl E with Moss on the beat drop another dope song and dope video to go along with it. She gets real deep on this one.

Poets 4 Change Poster

2011-03-23T21:24:00.002-03:00

Poster I did for and event that bridges poetry, fine art and youth together. It sounds really interesting. If you're fan of art or poetry you should check it out.

The Country Wife Poster

2011-03-22T22:56:00.003-03:00

Poster 4 of the series of theatre posters we're doing for DalTheatre. When speaking with the play's director, James Dodding he mentioned that the lead character had a "wide eyed innocence" about her, yet she wasn't as innocent as she would have others believe. I really tried to capture that in the illustration. Here's a brief description of what the play is about;
"Margery sees Old London Town with new eyes. A young wife from the country, she is entranced by the fashionable city folk. But beneath the glamour London is a haven for seducers, charlatans, adulterers and thieves, and plain-spoken Margery is an alien among them. What will happen when this innocent abroad encounters Master Horner, the most duplicitous rake in England? William Wycherley’s uproarious 1676 farce takes us on a darkly comic journey through the sins of the city as they are unsettled by the perspective of the country."
The play is running from March 29–April 2 at the Sir James Dunn Theatre at Dalhousie University so check it out!

Carlitta Durand - iCarli (Official Video)

2011-03-15T18:18:00.002-03:00

I don't listen to too much RnB but I do enjoy me some Carlitta Durand. Here is her latest video from her Nostaligic Nights EP. Look out for the homey AbCents at the 2:42 mark. This was shot at his crib by Visual High Life.

BBI Client Directory 2011

2011-03-15T12:29:00.000-03:00

Check out the latest Black Business Initiative Client Directory designed by us.

Greedmont Park Magazine Issue 2

2011-03-08T15:20:00.000-04:00

"In a world full of self righteousness, it takes strong, creative people to deny the boxes society tries to force upon us. Greedmont Park is continuously smashing these boxes and shedding labels in the process." – Greedmont Park.
Based on one of my favorite blogs right now greedmontpark.com, Greedmont Park magazine issue 2 promises to be just as interesting as its online counterpart. Editor in Chief Myles E Johnson and Art Director Corey Davis have put together a smashing issue featuring a Davis illustration of Tupac on the cover. Some topics include homophobia in hip hop, Wikileaks and interviews with Dev and Mr Hudson.

Dead Island - Announcement Trailer

2011-02-21T00:11:00.002-04:00

One of the best and saddest video game trailers I've ever seen. The graphics aren't the best but it goes to show you that artistic merit trumps all.
Found via qbn.

The Madwoman of Chaillot Poster

2011-02-06T07:27:00.003-04:00

Poster 3 of the series of theatre posters we're doing for DalTheatre. I sampled a little bit of Art Nouveau on this one. Here's a brief description of what the play is about;
"The Parisians laugh at the Madwoman of Chaillot, with her ludicrous obsessions and her antiquated deportment. But for her the real insanity lies within the men of finance and industry who despoil our planet in their lust for money and power. When oil is discovered beneath the streets of Paris, only the far-sighted Madwoman can see a way to save the City of Light. Jean Giraudoux’s magical tale turns notions of madness upside down and asks how ‘sane’ society can be saved from itself."
The play is running from February 9-12 at the David Mack. Murray Theatre at Dalhousie University so check it out!

Jeff Staple Interview with Made

2011-02-01T09:21:00.002-04:00

The ever inspirational and intelligent Jeff Staple.

I'm an Artist Again

2010-12-22T15:06:00.001-04:00

After a 10 year hiatus I'm officially back on my artist grind. Here's a painting that I'm working on at the moment. I'm hoping that I'll have some time during the holiday to finish it.

Into The Woods Poster

2010-12-21T12:19:00.001-04:00

Poster 2 of the series of theatre posters we're doing for DalTheatre.

The Bald Soprano and Jacques or Obedience Poster

2010-12-21T11:31:00.001-04:00

The first of a series of 4 theatre posters we'll be doing for DalTheatre.

DalTheatre Season Brochure and Poster

2010-12-17T13:13:00.001-04:00

DalTheatre approached us to design a brochure to promote their 2010/2011 season. I thought that it would be cool if the brochure folded out as a poster. We also did all of the illustration. The results are below.

Mz Malz Article for Showoff Magazine

2010-12-07T11:13:00.001-04:00

Check out the article I wrote about Bermudian rapper and producer Mz Malz for Showoff Magazine.
Go to Article

Prof-ac vs A-ssassin

2010-11-15T22:25:00.001-04:00

Earlier in the year I sat down and chopped it up with my dude Prof-ac and he mentioned that he was preparing to battle in DNA's Concrete Animals rap battle league. Here's that battle. With a decided victory Prof repped Bermuda hard. I can't say how geeked I am for this dude.

Bad Things That Could Happen

2010-11-08T11:09:00.002-04:00

This is so weird but so good. I'm designing a series of posters for plays being put on by Daltheatre that focus on some of absurdities of every day life the same way This Is It does with this video. Photography by Thomas Bolwell, sound design by Andrew Kinnear, music by Andrew Kinnear and Joseph Pelling and make up by Elizabeth Barlow.
Props Staple Design

Influencers

2010-11-06T02:04:00.002-03:00

This is a really inspirational video by R+I creative. I'm a day late and a dollar short with this video but it's too good not to post. It features discussions about how trends are born and the select few that have the power and confidence to set them. Ironically, the people in the video talking about influences are all influencers in their own rights.

Super There Will Be Blood

2010-11-02T15:17:00.001-03:00

Competition work by Tomfoolery Pictures for for Empire Magazine's 'Done in 60 Seconds' Competition. This is just plain dope.

Chief Darrah

2010-09-23T13:47:00.003-03:00

I met Darrah back in 2004 and was really struck by how "down" she was for her people. She informed me of some of the issues affecting native communities and noted that some of the struggles parallel struggles seen in many black communities. This really struck a chord with me and reminded me of how important it is to believe in and support your own culture. When she mentioned that she was considering running for Chief of her community I wasn't surprised at all and told her to go for it. If she wins, she'll be the first female to do so, so I'm honoured that she let me be a part of history. That said... VOTE PINE!

Let Me Land

2010-09-15T02:28:00.001-03:00

I'm really feeling what this brother and his team are going for from the music to the aesthetics. Check out his latest mixtape titled, 'Let Me Land', presented by The Whorington. Also peep the documentary below to get some insight into the process that went into producing the mixtape. Get Let Me Land here.

Dig Dug aka Agartha Audio aka MF Borat Interview

2010-09-10T00:55:00.001-03:00

I recently interviewed beat maker Dig Dug (Agartha Audio) for UGSMag. Check it out here.

Glitterati Featured in Black to Business

2010-09-08T06:45:00.001-03:00

A lot of my writing involves, talking about OTHER people and the things they're accomplishing. It was nice to have the tables turned when Chad Lucas wrote a piece about me for issue 47 of Black to Business, a Halifax based business magazine. If you're in the city you should check it out. Every time I read it I'm pleasantly surprised to see the faces and read the stories behind some of the businesses in Halifax.

Daddy Part 2

2010-09-04T08:04:00.003-03:00

Photo by Emma Rose Photography

In a little less than a week, if all goes according to plan, I’ll be a daddy for the second time. In less than a week I’ll also be starting university for the second time. I’m dong a Master of Information Management to expand my ability as a designer and hopefully open doors for myself outside of design in the future. On top of that my full time job has been busy and Glitterati is more popular than ever. My life for the past 8 and a-half months has been hectic, (to say the least) full of happiness and nervousness for the future. On one had I’m excited about the new addition to our family and the professional success I’m seeing while on the other I’m worried about money and time management. I feel like I’m about to have one of those, “make it or break it” moments. That being said, I’m gonna do everything I can to be there for my family and not break Glitterati. I may not be able to post on the blog as often but I’ll still be around. I may just focus on micro-blogging a little more for convenience sake. If you want to keep up with me and haven’t seen a post in a while, hit me up on Twitter or join the Glitterati Facebook page.

Peace!

Ralph Watson - Shadow Dance

2010-09-02T08:10:00.001-03:00

The homies over at LDNstudio in London fired me over a new video for Ralph Watson's, "Shadow Dance". Like the video for Londinium before this, they produced this with zero budget except this time they took a leap across the pond to Chicago. The concept behind the video is based on the idea of a homeless nomad trying to make sense of the world around him. Big ups to Chicago native Graham Baclagon for doing an awesome job shooting this.

The Radiant Child

2010-08-31T23:39:00.001-03:00

Netter Deconstructed

2010-08-31T00:17:00.002-03:00

New experimental piece I did based on illustrations by F. Netter. I think this may be the first in a series.

Stargazing at Two G.O.O.D. Ass Mixtapes

2010-08-29T07:02:00.002-03:00

Two mixtapes I've been bumping hard for the past 2 weeks are Aleon Craft's 'The Stargazing Soundtrack' and Perajok and Kanye West present, 'G.O.O.D. Ass Mixtape' featuring artist from the G.O.O.D. Music label. The Stargazing Soundtrack is retro inspired, smooth hip hop for 2010, while G.O.O.D. Ass Mixtape is a blend of dope soul music and rap. I recommend both of them. Links below.

Perajok and Kanye West Presents: G.O.O.D. Ass Mixtape
Aleon Craft: The Stargazing Soundtrack

Moose Hunter

2010-08-18T07:10:00.002-03:00

Most summers I spend a week in the summer camping in the Cape Breton Highlands with my in-laws. This year was no different except for the fact that I became obsessed with capturing a clear photo of a moose. The Highlands are loaded with wildlife we don't see here in the city, so I was really trying to get my Steve Irwin on. After a night of frequent sightings but failed photo attempts with my father in law I felt discouraged. Then, a couple of days later we decided to take a drive to a near by town called Cheticamp and bam! My mother in law caught one at a distance out of the corner of her eye and it was on after that. We managed to spot two more and I got my shot as seen above. We had a great and relaxing time and I came back ready to tackle the world again.

The other great thing about being away was that I got to work on updates to the main Glitterati site! I ended up changing it quite a bit more than I initially expected to but I'm really happy with the new direction it's taking. The overall look is the same but I made the user experience a little easier and added some new sections. One of the additions I'm most happy about is a section dedicated to some of my writing. We've also added a section where you can download some of my digital art for free as iphone and computer wallpapers. Check below for a sneak peak of the writing section. I'll be debuting the new site in the next week or so so I'll keep y'all informed.
Peace!

Divine Inspiration

2010-08-10T00:33:00.003-03:00

Most times inspiration comes when you least expect it and this time was no different. I was just relaxing at home with the fam and caught this magic moment with my daughter on my iPhone cam.

McDonalds Fail

2010-08-01T12:23:00.003-03:00

I had a design nerd moment at the Bayers Lake McDonalds. Check out the apostrophe action in the photo.

2010-07-29T16:34:00.001-03:00

Wow. As of yesterday I've officially been out of the game and happily married for 3 years. Since I'm ridiculously broke I decided to for-go a traditional gift and commemorate the occassion by designing a card for my wife. Here's the result. Thank you to Sonya and the team at Halcraft for the help!

Around Tha Town Video

2010-07-13T21:46:00.002-03:00

Helmet cam video of North-West Oakland by Theo from AllOut Productions. Background music is a beat called 'Move On Up' produced by Dig Dug from Agartha Audio.

Reverend Judith Gardner Business Card

2010-07-12T23:11:00.002-03:00

Business card we designed for Reverend Judith Gardner, a Bermuda based Ecumenical minister. If you're looking to have a scenic outdoor wedding in Bermuda give her a call!

BBI 2010 Annual Report

2010-07-07T23:11:00.003-03:00

Cover of the 2010 Black Business Initiative Annual Report we recently designed.

The Meaning Of Conscription

2010-06-29T23:56:00.008-03:00

I've been contemplating doing a post describing my thoughts on Bermuda's mandatory military draft for a few months. When I was 18 my mother found my name on the long ominous list of new recruits that's published in one of Bermuda's news papers. I was not a happy camper. I was playing basketball for Bermuda College and training in martial arts multiple days a week at that point and I knew that devoting my time to the regiment would mean giving up at least one of my interests. I did 2 weeks of basic training that resulted in more frustration than personal growth so my view of the draft is one of skepticism. Soon after basic training I was deferred so that I could pursue my education and haven't looked back since. I now live in Canada but I still owe the Bermuda Government my 3 years of service and have to send a letter to the Bermuda Regiment every year that includes proof that I no longer reside on the island. While doing my daily rounds on Facebook last week I came across this great post by one of my high school mates, Eugene Johnston. He described the issues surrounding this controversial issue far more eloquently then I ever could so I had to use this as Be Glitterati's first guest post. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic (Supportive or not). Read more after the Jump.

Nothing has a greater value than choice. Freedom and choice are inseparable. One cannot exist without the other. From the beginning of time humans have exercised their right to choose. They worship their own deities. They determine what is important to sanctify. They choose their leaders. They decide who to venerate after death.

We agree that it is important that we have the right to choose who represents us in Parliament. That we choose our professions. Religions. What we can and cannot say. From the way we dress down to how we keep our hair.

Our babies are born with an instinctive understanding of choice. When the child is unable to do for itself, it demands assistance. And when the child matures enough to do on its own, it protects its right to continue doing those things. Children walk when they are ready. Talk when they are ready. But only then. They passionately seek answers to the World’s questions. They dig. They prod. They turn houses upside down looking for clues to their existence. If you have ever tried to stop an inquisitive child from going into things you will have seen how adamant they are to protect their freedom.

For this reason, as a society, we should do everything to protect everybody’s right to choose. Our Constitution merely touches on it. It says that people have the right to believe what they wish, to act how they wish, to move about as they wish. These rights belong to all of us. Our country has no business hindering those rights unless there is an overwhelmingly compelling reason for doing so. It is not for a person asserting a right to convince others that he has the need to exercise it. That would mean the slave would be made to justify why there should be no slavery. The person accused of crime would have to prove his innocence. And the woman would need to establish something so obvious: that she can do more than tend to the home.

So what does this have to do with conscription? Quite simply this: conscription is the antithesis of choice.

Under the present law the Bermuda Regiment (“the Regiment”) need not care about the sanctity of Bermudian male freedom. The law is familiar. It is like all the other laws that imply that the Bermudian male is of no consequence to decision-making. It strips us of our humanity. And it does so when there is no prevailing need. There is no war that requires a limit on our rights. There is no civil unrest. In fact, the reality is that the Regiment’s functions are largely ceremonial. In essence then, for pageantry alone this country has been willing to sanction the wholesale abuse of an entire segment of this community.

That may be the point. What is the importance of that pageantry? Does it exist to solidify our colonial position? Could conscription be the means that is used to reinforce our position as a non-nation?

Blacks should find conscription a more difficult pill to swallow than whites. We have a collective history replete with examples of similar action being taken against us. We know the stories of slavery and colonialism; and how the forces at the head of those institutions attempted to dehumanise us. We are versed in these tactics and others. How a country’s laws can be shaped in a way designed to hinder us. How it is always the case that a reactionary policy is detrimental to us as a people. For these reasons Mr Marshall Sr was right to liken conscription to “20th century slavery”.

There is a further two points to make. Firstly, by giving women the right to choose whether they can join the Regiment, while at the same time making it compulsory for men, the message could not be clearer. The value of our women outstrips that of our men. For some reason we appreciate that women’s freedom alone has worth. This is the message we are uploading into the brains of our men.

Secondly, some of those in favour of conscription have used loose reasoning to justify the policy. They claim that conscription is the only way to ensure successful clean-up efforts in times of calamity. These people know little about our motivations. They do not understand how to create, nor maintain, the impetus that glues communities together. It cannot be right to rob a person of something so important to them; and at the same time demand they come to the table as a brother and friend. Responsibility is reciprocal: State to person; person to State.

If history is any guide, I can already see the end of conscription. You can dress thousands of men in green uniforms. You can make them march in perfect unison. You can line them up on Front Street. But none of your demands can kill their spirit. You can imprison them. You can talk badly about their upbringing. You can molest them. But none of your misconceived militancy can kill the quest for freedom. You can physically abuse them. You can force them into gas chambers. You can deprive them of benefits. But you can never destroy the idea that freedom is worth standing up for.

It is unfair to characterise the opposition to conscription as “14 men on the writ”. The cause is bigger than any of those men—individually or together. The anti-conscription campaign is not Larry Marshall Sr’s alone. It does not belong to a radio personality or an exceptional distance-runner. It belongs to all of us. Men, women, and children. Like anything else, what we do in relation to this issue will have consequences for our future. Do we continue to assault the most marginalised sector of our community?

That is why the conscription debate is so important. It is not just about the Regiment. It is not simply about a person’s responsibility to their country. And it is not about three years and two months of service. Conscription is about demanding that young men throw down their right to choose when there is no justifiable reason for making such demand.

This debate is about how we view our men. It is about what they really mean to us. What value they actually have to our community.

Special Guest Post by Eugene Johnston

Donnis - Fashionably Late Mixtape

2010-06-24T23:46:00.002-03:00

It seems like my iPod is loaded with music from the South and the Mid West these days. Highlights for me on this mixtape are the Colin Munroe assisted, "Lightning", "Yup" produced my Needlz and "Darkside" produced by Count Justice. Enjoy. Check the track list below.
Download | Donnis - Fashionably Late Mixtape

Props Hip Hop at Lunch

Duane Featured in NSCAD Alumni Gallery

2010-06-23T01:45:00.000-03:00

Hey guys. I'm excited to announce that some of my work is being featured in the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design's online alumni gallery. You can view it here.

Kia Soul x Adult Swim= 8 Tracks 8 Weeks

2010-06-18T00:16:00.003-03:00

Kia Soul and Adult Swim present 8 Tracks 8 Straight Weeks where the release 8 free songs (1 per week) for 8 weeks. The interesting thing about this project is that all of the artists and producers featured are people that contribute to Adult Swim. Some of the highlights for me include a new Madvillain track and a song with Mike Bigga (Killer Mike) produced by Flying Lotus. Beyond those obvious attention getters I discovered the first non-rap group in a while to really catch my ear. They're called, "Washed Out" and the song they have on the compilation is called, "You And I" featuring Caroline Polachek. I've had it on repeat ever since and will definitely look out for more from these kids. Download 8 Tracks 8 Straight Weeks Here.

Nappy Roots - P.O.N. Video

2010-06-16T00:07:00.003-03:00

P.O.N. was one of my favorite songs on the SMKA produced The 808 Experiment 2 and is also featured on The Nappy Root's latest project 'The Pursuit of Nappyness' that dropped yesterday. Check out the album and check out the 808 Experiment 2. It's loaded with heaters from a range of dope artists including, Aleon Craft, Joe Scudda, Tanya Morgan, Kyle Lucas, Pill, Yela Wolf and a whole lot more.

The Madbury Club

2010-06-15T00:45:00.002-03:00

The Madbury Club is finally here. For those of you who follow Phillip Annand and his blog Award Tour you've probably been waiting with baited breath. For those of you who don't follow Phil here's the low down. (Well my interpretation of it anyway). The Madbury Club is a place for forward thinking individuals with eclectic tastes to gather information and inspiration on anything from fashion to fishing. I personally see a strong hip hop sensibility in their approach but as a rule they are a group that are influenced by everything, and represent the eclectic tastes of the MP3 generation. The site has a few design and technical issues but as a designer I'm not mad at it. I think the aesthetic overall is beautiful. Having a lot of their photography shot by the super talented Tone can't hurt either though. Good luck to Phil and the crew. Check out the Madbury Club Here.

Prof-ac and Blac Get Some Love

2010-06-12T12:52:00.004-03:00

Props to Blac and Prof-ac for being the first Bermudian artists featured on World Star Hip Hop for their video Stalker. I've been a fan of Prof-ac's music for a long time and I'm happy to see him get some well deserved shine.

Dialogue Lounge

2010-06-09T21:28:00.007-03:00

Last night I attended a discussion series hosted by Ujamma at The Hub focused on crime and accountability within the African Nova Scotian community. I met some very inteligent and passionate people and came away from it feeling energized. At this point I don't want to get into too much of what was said, but the overall message that I took away from it is that a lot of the issues affecting society as a whole are affecting the African Nova Scotian community at a higher rate and if this problem will be addressed we can't wait for the government or anyone else to do it. We've got to take these issues on ourselves.

African Canadian Student Success Resource Guide

2010-06-07T06:38:00.002-03:00

Cover and spread from a directory Glitterati designed for the Nova Scotia Community College. The purpose of this publication is to help African Nova Scotian students locate various education and employment related resources.

Will B for Show Off

2010-06-05T06:47:00.003-03:00

Check out my article about Will B for Show Off Magazine.

Glitterati Featured on Napkin Lifestyle

2010-06-04T11:42:00.002-03:00

The good folks at Napkin Lifestyle have decided to feature my work on their home page gallery. This is part of an on going series promoting people who's work they admire. Check back every month to see who else they'll be featuring. Also; Be on the look out for a collaboration I have with them called 10of15. I've always liked Beau's work and been looking for an excuse to work with him for a minute. It's gonna be dope.

Swagger Wagon

2010-06-03T10:31:00.002-03:00

This pretty much sums up my life right now.
Props @AllyGarbs

My Pride and Pain

2010-05-29T15:51:00.005-03:00

I recently had my lawn landscaped. I thought that paying someone to do this for me would mean little to no work on my end but to my surprise it actually requires a lot of work on my end. I love waking up everyday to see a beautiful green and flat landscape but in order to make sure it stays that way, I've had to water my grass EVERY morning and EVERY evening (Providing it doesn't rain that day). Sounds easy enough. Except certain parts of my property are too small for my sprinkler to work properly and others are not getting enough water despite my best placement efforts. So everyday I have to water certain parts of my property by hand and other parts require figuring out the perfect placement and water pressure for the sprinkler. As frustrating as this is; It is rewarding when I see certain parts of my lawn recover from the lack of water but this watering crap is stealing my design and writing time. I'm starting to feel like life is constantly throwing situations like this at me. Why do we have to choose work or family/home? Why can't we just have enough hours in the day to do both?

Prof-ac featuring Blac – Stalker (Video)

2010-04-29T10:28:00.006-03:00

Sorry I've been slacking on my updates lately. I've been really busy and will be for the next little while. I'm giving the blog a little vacation time but we'll be back. Here's a new video from my boy Prof to the C. He's goin in and as always his bars are sharp as razors. Check it out and tell me what you think. Shout out to Shawn Simmons of Fotogenik Photography for the visuals and Smitty for the beat.

Cityreal Interview for UGSMag.com

2010-04-02T02:07:00.004-03:00

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Cityreal for UGSMag.com. This Vancouver based emcee is a hungry dude with a real talent for spitting and beat making. Think of him as the West Coast's answer to Classified. I'm really enjoying his album so if you get a chance you should check it out.

Brand RMX: Jeff Staple

2010-03-29T00:22:00.004-03:00

Jeff Staple represents a lot of what I want to be when I grow up. The great thing about Jeff Staple is that he's managed to stay true to his hip hop sensibility while earning a reputation as a high end designer and entrepreneur. The hip hop industry is loaded with talented image makers but very few people with the background and knowledge base to survive as legitimate designers. Jeff is as legitimate as they come. He's designed for almost every medium imaginable and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Props to R+1 Creative

Glitterati Duane Sighting on Bermynet.com

2010-03-25T22:52:00.004-03:00

I recently had the pleasure of making a trip back to Bermuda for a week to visit some family and friends. While I was there, my brother and I went out to Docksiders for a birthday party and the good folks from Bermynet.com were there to document some of the evidence. Shout out to Bermynet for being 10 years strong in the game.

Force Proph Article for Showoff Magazine

2010-03-21T03:14:00.002-03:00

An article I wrote based on an interview I had with Bermudian hip hop artist Force Proph. The article is for Showoff Magazine.

B. Dolan Interview for UGSMag

2010-03-11T10:44:00.005-04:00

I caught up with Strange Famous signee, B. Dolan to talk about his new album Fallen House, Sunken City. The dude is on some revolution/change the world type shit. Check out the interview at ugsmag.com. In addition to that, check out knowmore.org, an organization started by B. Dolan and Sage Francis, that encourages corporate responsibility when it comes to the environment and workers they hire.

Rhymefest vs Waka Flocka's Statements on Lyricism

2010-03-09T22:37:00.002-04:00

Rhymefest is one of the most intellectual rappers that would slap your mother out. This vid is a clip from an interview he had with "The Source" speaking on Waka Flocka Flame's comments on lyricism in hip hop.

Be Glitterati Turns 1

2010-03-08T22:02:00.006-04:00

Sunday officially marked one year since the birth of virtual baby, Be Glitterati. We've had some struggles, some sleepless nights and even a name change but here we are a year later. Thank you to all that have supported this blog from day one and to anyone who's just discovered us. To celebrate this milestone, I've compiled a list of my 10 favorite Be Glitterati posts. Here they are in no particular order. Let me know what you think!

1. Future Glitterati – Prof-ac
Artist/designer chat series

2. Haiti Taught Us About Freedom

J-Smooth on the earthquake in Haiti with some additional thoughts from moi.

3. Think Outside The Can
About pushing my self as an artist and designer

4. Dead Rapper Quilts
Dope quilt designs featuring images of deceased rappers

5. The Princess and The Frog coming out 2 weeks early?
My thoughts on the first Disney movie to feature a black lead character

6. Duane One of Atlantic Canada's Coolest Kids on Twitter
Just stoked someone other than my mom thinks that I'm cool

7. AbCents Interview
Interview with one of my talented producer friends

8. Chatting with Legends
Semi review of a book by Debbie Millman. What made this post extra special is the fact Debbie commented and thanked me for my review.

9. Affion Crockett - Who's Gonna Hunt Chris Brown (Run This Town Spoof)
This shit is just hillarious

10. Pin Head Sculptures
One of the most amazing displays of human dexterity I've ever seen. This video is definitely worth watching.

White House N*ggas – AbCents + Postell Pringle featuring Eddie Murphy

2010-03-06T01:32:00.003-04:00

This song is from the AbCents, Postell collaboration album, "The Mess You Made". It always provokes a knee-jerk uncomfortable reaction in me because of the continual use of the n-word. That being said, the song speaks to what is on the minds of a lot of people. (Whether they want to admit it or not). It tackles the unfortunate fact that some black people still feel that they are little more than n____ to the population at large. I don't personally share that belief but when, incidents like the one that went down here in Nova Scotia recently happen I'm forced to step back and wonder sometimes...

Kyle Lucas – It’s Always Sunny in Marietta (Mixtape)

2010-03-04T23:49:00.004-04:00

Aside from the fact this dude's a beast on the mic, What I love about Kyle Lucas is that he's beast without pretending to be a rap stereotype. He doesn't change his voice and delivery up to sound more street or act outside of his character. He's an emo kid from the burbs of Marietta, Georgia with gaged ears who fronts a rock band and he embraces that. Vonnegutt What up?!! Vonnegutt was recently signed to Big Boi's Purple Ribbon Records so expect to see big things from them in the future. Like Trav and the Gym Class Heroes, they've managed to successfully merge hip hop and rock without alienating fans of either genre. Guests on It's Always Sunny in Marietta include Grind Time South emcee and regular Kyle collaborator, Syd Vicious, Mike Posner, Donwill of Tanya Morgan, Vida, Slimm Calhoun, Metro Station and more. Production credits include Simon Illa, MW, Nobody Famous and others. I also recommend you check out Kyle's Myspace and download the Vonnegutt and Kyle Lucas is My Favorite Mixtapes.

Kyle Lucas - It's Always Sunny in Marietta

Props 2Dopeboyz

Curren$y + Stalley: Address

2010-02-26T06:33:00.003-04:00

Curren$y and Stalley take a trip to Jamaica for a new video. The song is crazy and I like the casual way it's shot. Creative Control did their thing on the visuals.
Props to Hip Hop At Lunch

Future Glitterati - Prof-ac

2010-02-19T09:05:00.017-04:00

[Interview Transcript]
Prof’s been rapping since the age of 13. I’ve seen him go from a dude with a high level of skill that’s rough around the edges to straight up dope MC. Now he’s making a name for himself in the competitive market of New York City, I know a few of you have maybe heard of that place. We’ll get to know some of his history and get to know some of what we can expect from him in the future.

What’s goin on Prof?

Ahh Nothin much. You know what it is man. Landmind all day

You know what? You’re actually the first person I know who’s taken that leap into a career in hip hop. There were only a few artists in Bermuda at a certain point in time that would consider them-self a rapper. Were you influenced by any of Bermuda’s early emcee’s?

“Roddy” Roderick Nesbitt. Roderick Nesbitt aka Chubby the Riddla. Now he has a open mic known as “Chewstick”. Bermuda’s popular and only open mic. He definitely was an influence. I guess I could say that Omega influenced me. He was the first rapper I met on the island that rapped and made his own beats. So I could say, as far as locally, him {Roddy}, Omega, Ink Squad which is ECB, Ricochet and Jonathan aka South Paw. So you can pretty much label all of those guys as the local influences I had in Bermuda.

You ‘re the second person I’ve interviewed who made the migration from Bermuda to the big apple. How has that affected your music?

Being in that New York competitive market where everyone’s very passionate about it {hip hop}. More passionate than anyone in Bermuda I had to step my game up. I always had the words, I just needed the delivery and the cadence and the word play. So I don’t think if I stayed in Bermuda that my word play and my delivery would be as on par as it is. Plus there were more people in New York that were willing to take me under their wing and school me and tell me what I needed to do to improve. I had my Bermudian influences but they weren’t as willing to take me under their wing. They knew what they knew and for some reason they either didn’t have the time or desire to tell me exactly what I needed to do to improve. New York everyone was in love with what I could say but I guess they saw more potential. I don’t wanna say one is better than the other. It just basically seemed that more people in New York gravitated to what I was sayin more than people in Bermuda.

I remember being a basketball player in Bermuda and leaving the island thinking that you’re nice. And then getting outside {Off the island} and playing with some other cats and realize, ok, maybe I wasn’t as nice as I thought. I mean I’m still decent but you know, I gotta step my game up if I’m gonna compete with these guys in this other market. Would you consider that...

Kinda like that because I didn’t really believe that I was better. I knew New York was definitely more scary than Bermuda because Bermudians at the end of the day aren’t really, well at the time, die-hard hip hop fans. But this is the home, this is the Mecca that I’m going to so I’d definitely be under some heavy scrutiny. But it seemed like after my first cypher they embraced me instantly. After they heard what I was spittin and what I was about. I think I was humble. I wasn’t big-headed when I went there.

What inspires your music?

Real-life situations, listening to other dope creative artists really makes me reach for mine because it always puts you on that creative edge. I think after I heard 125 Grams Part 1 by Joell Ortiz it made me so frustrated because he was sayin dope shit that I pray to God and I wish I could come up with first. But definitely once I listen to good material it inspires me to say, aight, I wanna do better then that. I wanna surpass the affect that song had on me. I take a lot of my real-life experiences and turn them into songs and do my best with that. I don’t really try to make up false stories. I try to be me to the best of my ability but make it work for me.

So how would you classify your style?

It has East Coast roots. You know I can’t even say it has East Coast roots because when I was growing up I listened to everybody, you know what I’m sayin? I listened to everybody from West Coast... I was definitely a student of the 90’s what they would deem as the golden era of hip hop. Where what you said made you dope. When a lot of people listen to my stuff, that’s what they compare me too. I guess you could definitely say that I’m keen on my lyrics. I guess if you wanted to classify my style I don’t want to have a certain classification to it because you never know how I might be feeling. An artist is a person at the end of the day and is forever changing as the years go by. So who you were when you did whatever project you did, you might have grown and you’re not that same person anymore. So I guess if you wanted to put a label on it... Golden era hip hop. That idea. That’s definitely it.

What would you consider your greatest strength as an artist?

I guess I manage to put more emotion and personalize my songs so when I do something you definitely get a sense that it came from a genuine place. You don’t have to stop and think, Oh man he definitely wasn’t into the song. I think the one thing that a lot of people walk away with when they listen to my music is, wow I definitely felt his emotion in that. If you wanna go on a technical level, word play. My word play I can definitely say is a strength. Metaphors definitely. If you really wanna break down lyricism. I don’t try to over use similes because a lot of rappers do. You know they always say like, like, like, like. So I try to dabble in the field of metaphors, punch-lines and concepts.

That being said. Who were you influenced by in main-stream hip hop?

If you wanna break it down as far as coast goes. East Coast it was the usual. Nas, Jay Big, Cannabis, Wu-Tang. If you wanna go West Coast Ras Kass was a big influence. Ras Kass, Exhibit the Alchoholics, Saafir. If you wanna bring it up to current day, I always been a Crooked I fan before he got with Slaughterhouse. Down South wise, Goodie Mob, OutKast, Scarface. If you wanna talk about where you’re at right now. Canada, Saukrates. I was always a big, big Saukrates fan. If there was any Canadian MC that I listened to that I would place on the same level as these other cats it would be him. To me, he was what Jay is to New York or to the States periods. All of those influenced me. Anything with a good style, lyricism and delivery. I left out Mid-West but as far as Mid-West, you know, Twista, Common, Em, D12.

We got into this on Facebook one day. But what’s your perspective on battle rapping?

I think right now there’s a market for it because of how people utilize You Tube. Before you couldn’t see the battles. You only heard about them. Only if you managed to be a person that lived in the States and happened to know where these battles go down. It’s funny cause I was at “Bad Blood” a “Grind Time” event, and me, Charlie Clips, DNA, Conceited and Cortez were having this conversation and Clips said that the camera is definitely making a difference. I guess you could say it’s more profitable to be a battle rapper. You can actually have a battle rap career now. The Math and T-Rex battle caught about 1 million views. So there’s a market and these battle rappers find a way to utilize that market and make themselves a brand.

Hey, you get a million views there’s money in that mate.

There’s definitely money in that. That’s my general concensus. In the past it was generic ya momma jokes and a lot of purists were on that tip of, he came off the top of the head. But what got me so mad about that back in the day was that, ok, he came of the top of the head but what he said was real simple and it was basically garbage. But you’re gonna give him the win because one dude wrote his bars and the other dude came off the top of the head? I was really keen on bars and then when it broke away from that it went to alright, written is cool. But now you have guys battling each other on Smack and it’s basically filler. What I mean by that is that it has nothing to do with the person who’s directly in front of them. They don’t personalize their attacks. The only people that really did that were Mook and Luxx and the ones that are still relevant and shining today. Dudes would go to spitting something off their album or random shit about how much guns they bust, how many hos they fucked, or how much crack they sold. Now you got Grind Time where you really gotta bring it. Punch-lines, metaphors, If you thought you were gonna go over the crowd’s head or you thought that your punch-line was too deep or too lyrical go with it cause that’s what the Grind Time crowd is looking for.

The Great thing about Grind Time is that it’s such a diverse group of cats. You get people of different races and backgrounds. It’s not just, I’m a thug, I can shoot you, I can sell drugs better than you. You get the nerds, you get the thugs, country cats, you get everybody mixed in...

I think that’s another thing about it. They’re welcoming lyricists from all over now. Now I know that there ARE lyrical dudes in Atlanta and Texas and all that. What you just said, Cortez said. If you actually watch the Cortez vs Soul Kahn battle, after the battle was over says that without Grind Time you wouldn’t have a Soul Kahn and a Cortez and their kind of followers congregating in the same spot to watch them battle. After he battled in Grind Time it really made him step his game up because it made him realize how well rounded he had to be as far as punch-lines. He was so used to dealing with Fight Club and that type of vibe that he now realized that he had to be very versatile. He took something from those battles with Conceited, Real Deal and Soul Kahn which I respect him for very much. He is not one of those guys that’s so self absorbed that he won’t give you the real and tell you, I don’t know how I lost. He’ll tell you I really needed to step it up.

Are you still trying out for Grind Time?

Yeah. Concrete Animals is the sub division / try-out division for Grind Time New York, but they moved the try-outs back to the summer. I’ve been waiting so I guess it gives me more time to get my bars together and get prepared but in the mean time there is a league known as King Of The Ring that Nuborn the sub division president suggested I get involved with. So I just might be doing King Of The Ring before Grind Time just to get me familiarized before the summer try-outs kick in. But you’ll definitely see me on Grind Time

You’re one of the founding members of Landmind Hip hop. Who’s in Landmind today? What’s the status of Landmind? What’s going on with that?

Landmind’s still alive and kicking and all the people that came in it are still there. I’m about to do the Grind Time thing and I guess do more showcases. Aside from me, Druhollah and False have been going hard in the showcase scene. Especially with J Hatch Promotions and DJ Bedtyme, who is Remy Ma’s DJ. A. Harmony is the first lady member of Landmind. She just did her first performance a couple of weeks ago. She’s also about to be on the Sisterhood of the Traveling Mics all Femcee mixtape series, which is being put together by my big sis Monie Love and E-Peezy. She’s also gonna get into writing. She knows just about everyone at Toronto’s Flow. Her and Kim Davis are pretty close. She’s doing her thing. Mal’s getting that fire in him. He’s back in the studio recording. We’re all in our individual lanes but simultaneously recording stuff for the group project. You’re gonna hear that the chemistry was great on a lot of the tracks we did together.

So you guys have a big Landmind group project coming out for 2010?

Oh Definitely yes yes. It’s been me False, Dru, Harms, Mal and you know Kase. Kase has been doing his thing too. He’s really well known for doing Chewstick. He went hard at that and it’s kinda led to other things for him. His music is better than ever. He’s really come a long way and I’m proud of him cause he’s one of the younger guys. Smitty just won Producer of the Year at the Underground Awards. Musson’s out doing his schooling but I’m pretty sure once that’s done he’s gonna be back in his zone.

What’s up with Web? I always hear this “Free Web” stuff in your songs.

Ahhh Free Web. Well Web is my brother, my best friend. I love that man to death. I moved to New York in 2001, I had just started Queens Borough Community College and they have these clubs. One of the clubs I stepped up for was the Black Student Union. The first day we congregated I heard this deep, Barry White voice saying the most funniest thing I ever heard in my life. That’s when I met Web and we just clicked. We got to know each other and we just became like brothers. His family became my family. His hood, Corona. Everybody basically supported cause I was one of his right hand men. It was like his neighborhood became my neighborhood, his family became my family. If there was about to be a fight or somebody was about to mess with me, before I could defend myself he would jump in and try to take up for me. When I was broke and had nothing to eat he would always take care of me. But at the same time he was in the streets and certain things have consequences so right now he’s in Rikers. He’s been in Rikers for 3 years trying to fight a life sentence. So when I say “Free Web” I want my brother out. I miss him being a free man and I miss having somebody there to make me laugh.

A lot of your songs hit on relationship issues. You know what’s coming next! How are the ladies treating you these days?

Ahhhh. Well the ladies are always gonna be the ladies. Ladies are very complicated creatures so all I can say is that I have not given up on the idea of a relationship. I guess when it’s time I’ll have that one that’s for me but until then I keep hitting a lot of bumps on the road. It just is what it is. Relationships are complicated. Any man that’s single is gonna meet a couple of options and some are gonna click more than others so that’s what it is. I’m single. What more can I say? [laughs]

Hear that ladies?! [laughs]. Alright altright. Well Thank you. Any shout outs you wanna give?

My family first and foremost. My mom, my sister and my dad. Landmind Hip hop all day, Mal, Web, Dru, False, Kase, Musson, D-Effect and No Good People, They always look out for me. So that’s, Stress, ODoub, Sean Strange and Raida. The whole GT, especially, Cortez and the Murda Ave Gang, Nuborn, DNA, PH, Loe Pesci from Montreal who competes in King Of The Dot. Also shout outs to my big sis Monie Love and my little Cousin Layna Love. Look out for her. She’s gonna be a problem. She’s dropping her RnB mixtape soon. Shout oout to the whole Bermuda and all the artists there. Everybody to New York, especially Queens. And shout out to Jamaica, the other 50% of my bloodline. And also shout out to Tha Underground. They’ve, supported, they’ve pushed what I’ve done so there you go.

Alright that’s wassup. Thanks again Prof!

Get at Prof-ac here:
www.myspace.com/itzallova
twitter.com/Prof_ac

Luka Sicks - Down Wit U

2010-02-15T21:32:00.001-04:00

New song from my man Luka Sicks. I'm feeling this and will be looking out for more from him.

The Giving Tree (Video Teaser)

2010-02-14T00:42:00.004-04:00

This is a teaser for a video that Mal of Landmind Hip Hop and I are collaborating on. Mal's handling the music and I'm handling the visuals.

Glitterati For The Children

2010-02-14T00:19:00.003-04:00

Last week I had the pleasure of doing a presentation to some Junior high students about my journey as an artist and designer. The kids were receptive and I had a good time. Teenagers aren't as scary as I thought! I'll be doing another one next week to a different group.

Duane One of Atlantic Canada's Coolest Kids on Twitter

2010-02-13T03:36:00.004-04:00

Duane was named one of Atlantic Canada's Coolest kids on Twitter in a guest post by Ross Simmonds of Altego Marketing Solutions for East Coast By Choice. Who woulda thunk it? Ross isn't so bad himself. You can follow him here and see the full list of cool kids here.

Duane Interviews Chokeules for UGSMAG

2010-02-05T11:50:00.001-04:00

I had the privilege to chat with Chokeules of the legendary Toolshed crew for UGSMAG. Great guy, great interview, dope music. Check the interview here.

Glitterati iPhone Skin

2010-02-04T02:20:00.002-04:00

My beautiful wife surprised me with an iPhone this Christmas (I must have been a good boy). As part of that gift she insisted that I get something to protect the phone from scratches. She found a company called ZAGG that gives customers the option to design their own skins and I was all over it. I was afraid that applying the skin would be more difficult in real life then advertised on their site but I was wrong. It took some careful handling but was actually pretty easy to apply. It's a good product overall. My only gripe is that I uploaded a crisp 300 dpi image but my print doesn't reflect that and looks pixelated (see below). Anyone else use a different company? What result did you get?