By: Mical Roy, Contributing Writer

Hailing from New York, by way of Los Angeles, Maxx Paine is an astute lyricist who lays his words gently over some of the best production I believe I’ve ever heard.  Paine is no veteran to this industry; however, he does a great job at appearing to be larger than life, whether he’s rhyming or indulging in ordinary conversation.

I first came in contact with Maxx a few months ago after viewing his “Listen 2 the Rain” video via a friend’s Facebook page. I was astounded at his ability to facilitate his words so effortlessly, while the track literally rained in the background. I must’ve replayed that video at least 10 times analyzing each word. It was exciting to see the underdog appearing so regal. Even the video was well thought out, classy, and proportionate to the overall theme of the song.

I had no idea what I was in for upon reaching out to Maxx. I really needed him to understand that even though I didn’t know him, I felt as if it was my obligation to give him his proper’s (props), because he’s a mastermind at rhyme and reason.  Since then, I have become fully committed to publicizing Maxx’s music and his namesake via social networks, print media etc. I almost feel like it’s my duty to let the world in on such awesome music. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Maxx build records in the studio and it’s literally a process, though he makes it seem thoughtless.

Though he’s a rapper, Maxx Paine is really an old soul and more of an R&B connoisseur, which explains why his production is so well tuned and refined. Every song I’ve ever heard is my favorite of all, and I’ve heard unreleased tracks that would blow many of the mainstream artists right off the sound scan.  

Paine has most recently completed a string of performances in New York City, including his most noted performance at the Long Island Music Awards. He is currently preparing for his performance at Belly Up in Aspen, CO. Check out one of his latest Mix Tapes, THE 48 LAWS OF POWER at http://www.maxxpaine.bandcamp.com/. You can also view his labels blog at http://www.indeetv.blogspot.com/  where you can view cuts from several of his latest videos etc. Feel free to contact his publicist at mjroy@mjroypr.com for booking/publication info.

Keep Jammin’ Yall

I remember growing up and hearing adults say, “life is all about decisions.” It always sounded like it made sense but it wasn’t until I was an adult and began to make my own decisions that I really understood what they were saying. So many times we see celebrities on the news for simply making the wrong decisions. As humans, it’s not our job to judge because everybody has made a bad decision or two in their lifetime. What’s important is how you come out of that bad decision. Some celebrities seem to never learn their lesson in that bad decision but there are also some who’ve come out as a better person because of their bad decision.

Hip Hop superstar, Clifford “T.I.” Harris is currently experiencing the results of not learning from a bad decision. In 2007, the rapper was arrested for attempting to purchase a large amount of machine guns and silencers. Before serving his sentence, T.I. seemed to have learned his lesson and began to speak to youth about staying away from violence and out of trouble. The MTV network even allowed him to have a reality show in which he personally met with troubled teens and attempted to sway them away from the troubled path in which they were headed.

One year after his release from prison, things began to start looking pretty good for T.I. He had married his long-time girlfriend, Tiny, he was working on a new album and he was starring in a new movie. T.I.’s new movie “Takers” debuted in theaters on August 27^th and by Monday it was reported to be the number one movie in the country. Unfortunately, less than a week later T.I. was arrested for drug possession. I’m sure T.I. didn’t think he would be arrested for drugs, he probably just saw it as if he was simply celebrating his success. Unfortunately, his bad decision may cost him his career, family and most importantly his freedom.

It doesn’t always have to be this way. Take a look at Michael Vick. Before his arrest, Vick was the highest paid player in the NFL and loved by just about everyone. Unfortunately, he got involved with dog fighting and eventually lost it all: the endorsements, big contract, fans and eventually his freedom for two years.  After being released from prison, Vick was given a second chance to return to the NFL. He humbled himself and signed a very small contract, compared to what he was making before his arrest. He played very little time and when the following season started he was still coming off the bench. Eventually Vick proved himself and has yet to get into any trouble with law. He’s now the Eagles starting quarterback and is actually starting to regain his respect not only as a player, but also a person.

Life is all about decisions. We’ve seen over time that the people who make bad decisions end up with bad outcomes. We’ve also seen people make the right decisions and end up with great outcomes. I’m encouraging you all to make the right decision!

It is sandal season ladies and gentlemen and before you bare you tootsies in the strappiest of strappy sandals; please take some time to get your feet in order. Let us all keep in mind the common phrase, “put you best foot forward.”

PEDICURES
Whether or not you can visit the salon, you always have the capacity to DIY, do it yourself. Because TCM wants to make sure you receive the best pedicures, as they are the foundation for healthy, happy feet, we want to give you a few pointers to ensure that you receive great pedicures.

1) First, start by soaking you feet in warm water to soften the skin in preparation. Soaking salts or oils enhance relaxation and soften dead skin.

2) Remove your previous polish and then file and buff your toenails. Make sure to file and buff in one direction, to prevent nails from splitting.

3) Apply cuticle remover and gently push it back with an orange stick or cuticle pusher. If you’re at a salon, don’t be afraid to tell your pedicurist not to cut your cuticles. PLEASE NOTE: Cutting the cuticle can promote infection because it leaves your nails exposed. You don’t want to run the risk of infection especially if you are using shared spa pedicure stations. Infected nails and foot fungus are not a good look.

4) Next, use a pumice stone and an exfoliating scrub to get rid of the dead skin. Pay special attention to the heels, as they can get dry and cracked with constant exposure in flip flops. Dry your feet and apply a moisturizing cream. Prep toenails for you polish of choice by applying a basecoat, and seal them with a topcoat to prevent chipping and promote shine.

Now when it comes to color, gentlemen, clear or no color is usually the way to go, but ladies don’t be afraid to lighten up. Ditch the dark colors, and warm up for springtime. Light pinks, blues, and greens are some of this season’s most popular colors. And ladies, If you really want to dazzle them, do be afraid to go for a design.

To keep your feet looking great, make sure to keep them moisturized. Applying a heavy foot cream or Vaseline and socks at night keeps your feet soft and supple. Wearing open-toed shoes means chipped polish is a no-no. Apply a clear coat of polish each day to prevent your polish from chipping. Remember TCM Readers; keep those toes looking flawless for the summer.

This shoot was extremely fun and our Fashion Editor, Chanteau Garrett did her thing on the styling with the help of J. Phill of CROSS Clothing.

What is the value of perfection? Nothing… The air that we breathe, the life we live and the very essence of our being is exactly the same as of someone adorned, or deemed perfect. Society imposes the norm that which so many Americans fix their lives around; the best car, the best figure, the best home, the best family qualities, etc. Happiness, no matter how much we endure to obtain it, should be the object of our perfection. We need to encourage happiness of the simple things in life. So often we learn the essence of life after it is either threatened or taken away. If we can recognize the value in nothing, we will appreciate everything.

Everywhere we turn we see an example of what we need to aspire to be. We see woman and men with the “perfect” figure, the “perfect” career, the “perfect” family and the “perfect” home. I am not trying to entirely criticize and credit society for our problem; parents, in most cases, feed the contradiction by allowing the children to believe that everything they see is what they should aspire to become. Some of these social norms feed into the attitudes of envy, rebellion and hate. I am by no means saying that we should entirely omit social norm because not all are negative, for example, the promotion of healthy living, optimism, education and outlaw of illicit acts; but I am simply suggesting that we reflect on the value of perfection.

Briefly consider life without socialized standards—there would theoretically be no prejudice, segregation or social classes. Social standards encourage social division. If every person is genuinely content in their skin and with their economic situation, there would be no dissension. No rivalry leaves room for peace. The peace that we so desperately long for but do not contribute to. We are guilty of being vulnerable. We are guilty for longing to fit in, so we devalue ourselves; we discredit the very attributes that make us who we are. I am not exactly sure who is setting the standard, but I do know that we are allowing it to continue. We feed into the norm, amplifying the problem by voting against individual choice or frowning upon individualism.

The object of perfection is individual choice and happiness, and with happiness comes wealth. Wealth being defined as an overwhelming presence of peace, love for self, love for neighbors and love for life. If we embrace individualism we will soon understand its gratification. If we consent to expectations acknowledge one another for what we are, we will see the change.

BE YOU. BE INFORMED. BE INSPIRED. BE CHIC.

WeLoveFine.com is buyer friendly, giving you the option to shop by collection, whether you are a fan of Hello Kitty, Fifi Lapin, Marvel, Peanuts or more. There is also a “do it yourself” feature, where shoppers can customize their own tees!

All subscribers receive 15% off and can create a personal profile for all future orders. With every purchase, customers will also receive a free Mighty Fine tote!

Fresh graphics and fun themes run throughout this laid back collection of easy tees for the casual chic chick.

Photographer: Ron J Photography

Make Up: Chaela B.

Hair: Benne’ of BJ’s Salon

Behind the Scenes of High School Sterotypes

Dream Culture announces its biggest sale to date! Use the code “DREAM50” at checkout for half off SITEWIDE at www.dream-culture.com!  Shop your favorites from the holiday collection at markedly discounted prices! Don’t miss this rare opportunity!

The discount code will be active until January 31, 2010.

Have you been checking out Rihanna’s funky, fashion-forward outfits and wondering just how you can afford to pull them off? Well you can leave all your worries behind, because with AMI you can steal her look for less…much less!

Rihanna was just spotted out and about with her beau, Matt Kemp, wearing a pair of fierce side cut-out leggings, paired with an oversized white shirt and leather vest, maintaining her notoriously powerful and chic look yet again.

Snag her style at amiclubwear.com with the “Black Lame Side Cut Out Tight”, “Black Studded Décor Pocket Chain Faux Leather Vest”, “White Lightweight Dolman T-shirt Top” for a grand total of just $71.00!

Wale’s album Attention Deficit is the best album of 2009! His lyrical abilities are insane with guest appearances from Bun B, Melanie Fiona, J.Cole and many more. The album reached number 2 on the U.S. Billboard Rap Charts and number 3 on the U.S. R&B charts. Wale has already released 3 songs from the album Chillin, World Tour, and Pretty Girls. His music incorporates elements of  go-go,  music a dance that started in Washington D.C. This was by far the best album in 2009 hands down.

Also check out these hot sizzling albums:

Omarion: Ollusion

K’Jon: I Get Around

Don’t look drab this fall. Brighten up your look with the season’s hottest makeup trends.

When attempting to implement the new trends, remember to use only ONE focal point on your face, it’s either the eyes or lips. When you use a dark shade for the eyes, natural colors for the lips work better, and vice versa.

EYES

Purple is the popular color this fall. Plum, lavender and violet are great shades for your lids. Purple’s are actually a great compliment to green and brown eyes, so go bold.

EYEBROWS

Thick, natural eyebrows are in these days, so don’t over pluck. Just fill in sparse areas to make them look uniform.

LIPS

Don’t be afraid of a bold lip. Dark reds, bright reds and berry shades are colors that pop. Nude lips are also in style and work best to compliment a bold eye.

CHEEKS

Keep your cheeks neutral with a soft bronze or peachy shade so that you don’t overdo it.

NAILS

Berries, purples, metallic and dark colors are what’s hot. They compliment your makeup and add drama to your look.

MINERAL MAKEUP

The popularity of mineral makeup has really taken off this fall. The benefits are lighter make-up with fewer chemicals that are healthier for skin. There are many different brands to choose from so it’s easy to find the right one for you at the right price. Starter kits for some of the most popular brands are; Bare Minerals for $29.99, Loreal Bare Naturale for $13.99, and Pur Minerals for $35.99.

The trend for fall 2009 for make-up is BOLD, COLORFUL, FUN and with a hint of drama.

]]> http://www.teenchicmag.com/2010/01/this-seasons-hottest-make-up-trends/feed/ http://www.teenchicmag.com/2010/01/who-is-joya-bravo/ http://www.teenchicmag.com/2010/01/who-is-joya-bravo/#comments Sat, 16 Jan 2010 01:35:04 +0000 clarencelmcmill http://www.teenchicmag.com/?p=3320

PRESENTS

“JOYA BRAVO“

Singer/Songwriter/Rapper/Violinist, “JOYA BRAVO” is a New York native born in 1986 Queens, New York and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. Conceived by Jamaican parents, Bravo’s upbringing was conservative, but musically charged.

Bravo began playing the violin at age 9. Her success eventually earned her a chair in the Metropolitan Atlanta Youth Symphony Orchestra (a highly accredited youth ensemble in the southeast region). She has performed with Grammy Award Winners The Roots at the Highline Ballroom.

As an all around creative artist, this powerhouse talent has a clear message to share with the world. She seeks to spread ideals of self-realization, collaboration and positive progression to future generations of the world through her craft. Some of Joya Bravo’s lifetime musical inspirations include: Grace Jones, Serj Tankian (System of a Down), Radiohead, Sarah Brightman, Bob Marley and many other artists her abilities supersede.

Joya Bravo VIDEO performance at SOB’s NY 2009

Download the Joya Bravo music sampler

This project, entitled “Move in Day”, is a sampler and a showcase of her eclectically chaotic, multi-dimensional, complex and beautifully crazy experiences of 2009.The songs were written with passion in times of joy, pain, love, war, longing and contentment.  Real experiences invoke real emotions; this is what Joya Bravo wish to share with you.

“If you place your faith in your feet you can walk further than you’ve ever imagined to places you have never imagined.”

Thank you and Go Be Great! Nice ta Meet Cha!

Love,

 Joya Bravo

PS. Oh, and by the way…I play the violin!

http://www.zshare.net/download/70019950842c646d/

The media has not ceased to cover the every popular tragic ending of the two year relationship between female teen idol Rhianna and Chris Brown.

What was thought to be innocent teen love was halted due to domestic violence. What was a very common argument amongst relationships lead to a brutal fight.

Many speculated whether Rhianna provoked Chris Brown; this rumor was laid to rest during her special on 20/20.

(Na can you insert part 2 of the video here? The website is listed below)

The fact that was never ignored nor denied was that Rhianna and Chris both grew up in homes where the witness domestic violence. I am sure Rhianna vowed that she would never marry a man like father and Chris did not wish to model his father’s actions toward his mother. The two fell victim to a situation that they both grew up in. It would be wrong to say either was entirely at fault for the situation. Although American morals would acclaim that Chris was extremely at fault because a man should never raise his hand to a woman; you have to question why Rhianna would allow her self to remain in a situation that unhealthy. She confirmed that the abuse exceeded 7 times and on average it takes battered women to endure at least 6 encounters of abuse before they leave.

TCM Readers, please be advised that love is not abuse. Love is not controlling. Recognize the signs and get out while there is time. Abuse is not one sided. We get easily wrapped up in the generalized perception of abuse as it is mainly targeted to women or only crucial when it happens to a woman; that is not true. Domestic violence is equally as awful whether it comes from a women or a man.

TCM Readers, please do NOT be scared to tell your story.

For more information on how to look for signs of abusive partners please visit http://www.drdaveanddee.com/ab.html.

For verification of information or to view all videos in their entirety please visit www.abcnews.go.com/2020.

It’s important to preserve your flawless skin and enviable hair when the harsh winter weather comes around. With the aid of a few modifications to your routine and a couple preventative measures you could eliminate the stress associated with not-so-glowing skin and bad hair days.

Skin is very important, as it should be especially because it’s the largest organ. As the temperature changes, so do the needs of your skin. A heavier emollient, like thick body butter will keep the skin moisturized longer than a body oil or gel.

Products that contain large amounts of shea butter and olive oil are perfect because together they are easily absorbed and form a protective barrier to block the drying cold weather from damaging your skin. Cocoa butter and coconut oil are also great natural moisturizer that work better than petroleum-based products that protect but don’t nourish the skin.

In addition to applying the right moisturizer, you should also make sure that you dress appropriately. Avoiding exposure of your skin to the bitter weather is significantly effective.

We all want our hair to look its best so here are some tips to keep it up when the temperature drops.

- Never go outside with a wet head. The wash and wear look of the summer is over, and if you want to protect your health and your hair, thoroughly dry it before leaving the house.

- If you choose to wear a winter hat to protect your head, make sure it has a lining to protect your hair from rubbing agaisnt it and causing breakage and dryness. If it doesn’t come with one, use your favorite silk or satin scarf.

- Protective styles such as up-dos, twists, and braids that keep your ends from rubbing against your clothes and being exposed to the cold air are best this time of year.

- To prevent dry hair and scalp try a hot oil treatment. If that’s too oil for your hair type, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil to your favorite conditioner instead. This small step will work wonders to prevent flakes and brittle hair.

Think preservation not hibernation this winter. Take care of your skin and hair and with these tips and tricks you can maintain your CHIC look all year round.

If  the name “David Guetta” sounds familiar to you, yes you have heard it before he is the man behind the music (producer) for “Kelly Rowland” International/Dance/Techno/Electro - Pop SMASH HIT “When Love Takes Over” and by the look of things it seems he doesn’t intend to slow down anytime soon. I can go on and on about his numerous other smash hit records with other notable and creditable artist, but this came across my email box this week that I must share with the Teen Chic Mag Readers.

Wynter Gordon is someone who has been under my radar since 2007 and is on a collaboration streak of hits right now. Wynter Gordon is a singer/song writer signed to Atlantic Records/Don Pooh Music Group and has worked with likes of Mary J. Blige, J.Lo, Danity Kane, Toni Braxton, Flo-Rida, Maino and now you can add David Guetta to that list. When I heard this record I could not help but to keep thinking to myself, “what the heck is Atlantic Records waiting for release the first single already.” If you enjoy artist such as Jodi Whately, Madonna, Grace Jones, Rihanna and Lady GaGa you will feel like you have been waiting for Wynter Gordon your whole life. She is the complete package Singer/Songwriter/and Performer.

Wynter currently released her mix-tape last month, “The Trouble with Wynter” and she delievers yet another International hit record “Renegade ft. Static Revenger” which is currently available on i-Tunes and any other MP3 distribution company right now. You can check her out at www.myspace.com/wynter1985

You can download the record from the link below :

David Guetta Ft. Wynter Gordon - Toyfriend (Full Music HD)

Timbaland

Anything that Timbaland touches turns out dope. Shock Value produced hit singles, “The Way I Are,” “Scream,” “Give It To Me,” and “Apologize (Remix)“, which all charted high on Billboard. There is no set release date, but just hearing this news has got us excited all ready.

I HAD THE CHANCE TO MEET AND INTERVIEW ONE OF THE BIGGEST R&B STARS OF TODAY! HIS HUMBLING AND CHARISMATIC PERSONALITY JUST MAKES YOU LOVE HIM MORE..

YES I’M TALKING ABOUT CHRIS BROWN! HE HAS A NEW ALBUM DROPPING DECEMBER 8TH CALLED GRAFFITTI!

HERES THE INTERVIEW!

EB: HEY CHRIS! HOW ARE YOU?

CB: IM GOOD, THANK YOU. JUST TOURING AND PROMOTING MY ALBUM!

EB: THAT’S GOOD! SO THE ALBUM GRAFFITTI DROPS DECEMEBER 8TH! HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK?

CB: IT FEELS GREAT! IM JUST GLAD TO BE BACK DOING WHAT I LOVE TO DO AND GIVING THE FANS WHAT THEY DESERVE! MY FANS HAVE BEEN GOOD TO ME.

EB: I CAN TRANSFOR YA…CATCHY SONG TITLE, TELL ME HOW DID THE SONG COME ABOUT?

CB: WELL, SWIZZ BEATS PRODUCE THE SONG AND IT ALSO FEATURES HIM AND IT FEATURES LIL WAYNE AND BASICALLY IT PUTS YOU IN THE MINDSET OF THE MOVIE TRANSFORMERS. I WANTED TO CHANGE IT UP AND BE DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE!

EB: WHAT PRODUCERS DID YOU WORK WITH ON GRAFFITTI?

CB: I WORKED WITH POLOW THE DON, NEPTUNES, THE MESSENGERS, THA BIZNESS, AND THE RUNNERS…SO YEAH ITS GOING TO BE A HOT ALBUM!

EB: THE ALBUM IS GOING TO BE HOT! I CANT WAIT! U ALSO HAVE A MOVIE COMING OUT IN FEBRUARY TELL US ABOUT THAT?

CB: THE MOVIE IS CALLED TAKERS AND ITS IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 26, 2010 AND ITS STARRING ME, T.I., IDRIS ELBA, MATT DILLON, HAYDEN CHRISTENSEN AND MANY MORE. IT’S ABOUT A GROUP OF BANK ROBBERS THAT SPECIALIZE IN SPECTACULAR ROBBERIES AND WE HAVE ONE LAST JOB TO DO BUT A DETECTIVE TRIES TO INTERUPT A 20 MILLION DOLLAR HEIST…SO YEAH IM EXCITED ABOUT IT…IN THEATRES FEBRUARY 26TH!

EB: I SEE YOUR DOING BIG THINGS! I KNOW YOU HAVE TO GO BUT WE ARE GLAD TO HAVE YOU BACK AND YOU’RE DOING AN AMAZING JOB! TELL THE FANS HOW THEY CAN KEEP IN TOUCH WITH YOU.

CB: THANK YOU SO MUCH IM GLAD TO BE BACK! AND I HAVE A NEW SAY NOW NUMBER AND I WANT ALL MY FANS TO CALL AND LEAVE ME A MESSAGE! THE NUMBER IS 877-CBREEZY AND I WANT ALL MY FANS TO FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER @MECHANICALDUMMY!

EB: ALRIGHT I KNOW U HAVE TO GO AND GET DRESSED BUT THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR TAKING YOUR TIME OUT TO TALK TO ME.

CB: NO THANK YOU AND ITS MY PLEASURE! THANKS AGAIN!