"Tro some oil in it".
Infectious track and vid.
Do you know.. there's a guy in this vid with the biggest dong. (he's on the left...)
Good morning x
Still with me?.. ok.. you can recover now..
Notting Hill Carnival was jammed packed. I wasn't sure if I could do the crowd this year, but I decided to give it my best. On arrival and on my way to the parade ( Soca baby) I did catch dome of Luv Injection and Saxon Sound. Few other sounds, a line of men about 5 men pissing in the street ( weirdest looking thing I've seen in awhile) Paid too much for Salfish and Ackee, but it tasted great and was exactly what i needed. Walked for miles ( again what I needed) and enjoyed the sights, and some really great music.
Nice
Wednesday, 31 August 2016
Saturday, 27 August 2016
Voice - Cheers To Life & Kerwin Du Bois ft. Patrice Roberts - Unforgettable
Caribbean girls is our weekend dis...
A we small Island a run tings
A we small Island a run tings
Why I clean to music. ft Black Motion Feat. Dr. Moruti - Heartless Intentions
Cleaning can be incredibly boring.
The joy of cleaning however, kicks in within minutes. You become active and see results instantly. There comes a point when it's no longer a chore but a highly enjoyable activity.
It's the knowledge however, that it doesn't last and will require you repeat the same thing for like... for-ev-er... which 'dents the sheen a little' and can delay the crucial act of starting.
However, with music..the task feels somewhat, liberating.
With it, I feel so free and content.
The doors and windows are open, the sun is shining, and the bass is on fire.
( and a Henry the hoover)
Thank god for Black Motion
Salutex
The joy of cleaning however, kicks in within minutes. You become active and see results instantly. There comes a point when it's no longer a chore but a highly enjoyable activity.
It's the knowledge however, that it doesn't last and will require you repeat the same thing for like... for-ev-er... which 'dents the sheen a little' and can delay the crucial act of starting.
However, with music..the task feels somewhat, liberating.
With it, I feel so free and content.
The doors and windows are open, the sun is shining, and the bass is on fire.
( and a Henry the hoover)
Thank god for Black Motion
Salutex
Why the scrutiny of Caster Semenya's image is deeply racist.. and more SOCA baby!! [ ft Machel Montano - Human]
We all know Caster Semenya, 800m Olympic Champion.
We've heard recent jibes of.. 'men dominating in women's sports...'
all very cute I'm sure
and yes, it's fair to say that the top 3 800m winning athletes do look 'a bit like men'. The debate is where to place intersex athletes. Women with higher than average levels of testosterone. (More than the average woman.. yet less than the average man).
Yet I clearly remember growing up in a time when 'intersex women' dominated sport. Often these women were Russian. It's fair to say that for quite awhile many long distance female runners looked like men. As children we'd say things like, 'she looks like a man!', (stating the obvious in all innocence, as children do) Everyone could see it... yet the media NEVER... uttered a word.
No checks, no outcry, no debates about whether it's fair that these 'butch women' should be running alongside 'regular' women.
No.. they were winning, and that was enough
Czech athlete Jarmila Kratochvílová
800m and 400m champion in 1983
So now they are not winning.. and the media is in a frenzy.
'They are men!'
'It's not fair!'
Sour grape anyone?
It really is funny. I personally dont mind that in Rio the three winning female 800m athletes looked like men.
It made the race even more interesting and fun.( ny)
in fact, it reminded me of the 'good ole days' in women athletics..
oopps sorry wrong pic lol
In all seriousness though, It can't be much fun for women to have to undergo public scrutiny as to whether they are female or not. in fact it's embarrassing , almost as embarrassing as virginity testing.
Interestingly enough I might add that Caster recently married her girlfriend in a traditional ceremony. A story that perhaps received little mention as it attacks the notion of a completely intolerant Africa with regards to LGBT.
Caster & Wife
The media reveals more than news stories.
The cure?
Cha..
Soca baby...
Peace x
We've heard recent jibes of.. 'men dominating in women's sports...'
all very cute I'm sure
and yes, it's fair to say that the top 3 800m winning athletes do look 'a bit like men'. The debate is where to place intersex athletes. Women with higher than average levels of testosterone. (More than the average woman.. yet less than the average man).
Yet I clearly remember growing up in a time when 'intersex women' dominated sport. Often these women were Russian. It's fair to say that for quite awhile many long distance female runners looked like men. As children we'd say things like, 'she looks like a man!', (stating the obvious in all innocence, as children do) Everyone could see it... yet the media NEVER... uttered a word.
No checks, no outcry, no debates about whether it's fair that these 'butch women' should be running alongside 'regular' women.
No.. they were winning, and that was enough
Czech athlete Jarmila Kratochvílová
800m and 400m champion in 1983
So now they are not winning.. and the media is in a frenzy.
'They are men!'
'It's not fair!'
Sour grape anyone?
It really is funny. I personally dont mind that in Rio the three winning female 800m athletes looked like men.
It made the race even more interesting and fun.( ny)
in fact, it reminded me of the 'good ole days' in women athletics..
oopps sorry wrong pic lol
In all seriousness though, It can't be much fun for women to have to undergo public scrutiny as to whether they are female or not. in fact it's embarrassing , almost as embarrassing as virginity testing.
Interestingly enough I might add that Caster recently married her girlfriend in a traditional ceremony. A story that perhaps received little mention as it attacks the notion of a completely intolerant Africa with regards to LGBT.
Caster & Wife
The media reveals more than news stories.
The cure?
Cha..
Soca baby...
Peace x
Friday, 26 August 2016
Farage's one man campaign to spread more..well...Farage. [ft Machel Montano Aaron Duncan]
Did I really see Nigel Farage at a Donald Trump rally?
Speaking passionately to a group of supporters.. yes, it seems it was definitely him.
Farage's closing remarks were that ...' anything is possible if enough decent people are prepared to stand up to the establishment'.
He's not wrong there..
However, Nigel Farage is the establishment.
He's not fooling anyone there
An ambitious careerist with dubious intentions with regards to the welfare of others.. especially who he considers 'foreign'
'Bruk up Britain now im warn bruk up America ( so to speak)
Nigel Farage is a man on a mission. His mission is... to do Farage!... and good or him. He always looks as though he's enjoying himself that's for sure.
This right wing sentiment that seems to appeal to leaders such as Trump and Farage however is getting a bit boring.
Both men, it's worth pointing out, have wives who are 'foreign'
I guess they felt they had... 'nothing to lose'...
On the one hand Trump as President would be very interesting... as in funny. I kinda wanna see that dumb ass wall... and how much cement is required to cement his anti immigrant position into the history books.
Is he really serious about that wall??? lol
okay.. well... school has definitely changed abit... x
Speaking passionately to a group of supporters.. yes, it seems it was definitely him.
Farage's closing remarks were that ...' anything is possible if enough decent people are prepared to stand up to the establishment'.
He's not wrong there..
However, Nigel Farage is the establishment.
He's not fooling anyone there
An ambitious careerist with dubious intentions with regards to the welfare of others.. especially who he considers 'foreign'
'Bruk up Britain now im warn bruk up America ( so to speak)
Nigel Farage is a man on a mission. His mission is... to do Farage!... and good or him. He always looks as though he's enjoying himself that's for sure.
This right wing sentiment that seems to appeal to leaders such as Trump and Farage however is getting a bit boring.
Both men, it's worth pointing out, have wives who are 'foreign'
I guess they felt they had... 'nothing to lose'...
On the one hand Trump as President would be very interesting... as in funny. I kinda wanna see that dumb ass wall... and how much cement is required to cement his anti immigrant position into the history books.
Is he really serious about that wall??? lol
okay.. well... school has definitely changed abit... x
Changing a flat tyre in the hot sun
Is not a job I much fancy to be honest.
I'm almost tempted to send a fb request to anyone in my area who feels like changing it for me. Its a pain.
This tyre was flat weeks ago but the emergency call out guy told me it was okay as sometimes... 'Tyres just go down'.
'Really?'
ermm... really?
Anyway, I was just happy to have it sorted that I wasn't about to query... 'Okay..thank you so much!'.. and while you're there can you put air in the other 3?'
'sure no problem'.
Now I dont want to want to waste another call out on a flat tyre, so i'll just wait until my wimps become unbearable.
Helloooo.. please can you sort out my flat tyre for me?
Merci x
Its Carnival Weekend
Que Soca.. x
"Normal normal...."
Peace x
I'm almost tempted to send a fb request to anyone in my area who feels like changing it for me. Its a pain.
This tyre was flat weeks ago but the emergency call out guy told me it was okay as sometimes... 'Tyres just go down'.
'Really?'
ermm... really?
Anyway, I was just happy to have it sorted that I wasn't about to query... 'Okay..thank you so much!'.. and while you're there can you put air in the other 3?'
'sure no problem'.
Now I dont want to want to waste another call out on a flat tyre, so i'll just wait until my wimps become unbearable.
Helloooo.. please can you sort out my flat tyre for me?
Merci x
Its Carnival Weekend
Que Soca.. x
"Normal normal...."
Peace x
Thursday, 25 August 2016
Are Africans ashamed of their Slave History and Descendants?
With the International Slavery Remembrance day passing by on the 23rd August each year with little mention, it was the recent slavery remembrance day held in Trafalgar square on the 21st of August that really had me thinking.
Are Africans ashamed of their slave past and descendants, and if so... why?.
All fingers point to the answer being ... yes. For it is very rare to hear an African born African speak about, or have an opinion on the slave trade even though the impact on the history of the continent is undeniable.
What exists is a sense of 'other-ism' towards the diaspora, with Caribbean, America or UK born Africans being viewed in a sense, as the 'exotic' 'mixed', 'not quite right' or not African at all 'other'..
What is that other-ism?.
Well it is possible that the African complicity in the Slave Trade renders it difficult for some to speak as an authority on the ills of the Trade. It's equally possible that as slavery was in practice across parts of Africa even before the trans Atlantic Slave Trade that there exists an underlying belief that perhaps slavery is not all bad at all.
Parallels are often made with the Jewish holocaust, yet these parallels are relatively pointless.
Unlike the Jewish holocaust the African slave trade has never really garnered the same level of recognition as a horrific crime against humanity. Black people who speak about slavery are often met with frowns, deep breaths of tolerance, and in general they are expected to get over it, forget about it, and move on. Comments which will never be spoken to any Jew of European heritage, who do not appear in any way ashamed of their holocaust,but angry, and have found a way to ensure the world never forgets.
One of the reasons I believe these events have been remembered so differently is the sheer scale of the African Holocaust. There are simply too many stories, too many slave owners, too may countries, and the absolute enormity of the dispersal renders most people aghast. Unlike the Jewish holocaust who has a focus of 'one key bad guy' ( Who the 'world fought against and defeated).
It is not so with the African Holocaust.
Ironically, part of the reason for the lack of recognition could be in part due to the lack of interest of the African themselves. I have had several discussions with individuals who in not knowing my own background say things such 'they are not really African', or behave as though black slave decedents or black Africans born outside of the continent have something in their DNA which is perhaps not quite right (forgetting of course as they do... their own children birthed abroad)
Comments made in 2012, by the then-President Abdoulaye Wade, that his opponent, Macky Sall, could not and should not be elected because he was “the descendant of slaves.” further allude to that being a strongly held belief among many.
Whilst this was proved untrue and Sall succeeded in becoming President of Senegal, that level of contempt from a man who ironically received much of his education in France; a former colonial power, is very telling.
For that level of ignorance to have held power is a worry, but is it really an isolated thought, or isolated ignorance?
The former Presidents cronies may have laughed at the time, but the reality is such ignorance can prove to be a real an obstacle to unity and an obstacle to progress.
But it's that 'not quite right' aspect I wish to explore further, as it will help to highlight the erroneous nature of the slave trade and indeed, colonialism.
Africa today is as class-ist as any other class stratified country. How these classes are formed vary, but you can bet that slavery remains an aspect of that stratification, whether many realize it or not.
Poor people are not just 'born poor'. The family you are born into, your name, your tribe... will all tell a story with regards to which class you either hail from, or need to remain in.
To those of us who view these points as somewhat unimportant minor details, in reality for others, they can seriously impact, and often define the value of a persons human-ness.
The 'not quite right' aspect....may not be quite what you think however.
That 'otherness' is not necessarily the European, Indian, Arab or any 'otherness', the 'otherness that is often deemed 'not quite right'
shockingly appears to be... its very own African Identity.
It appears that it's little more than the African identity of Slave descendants that most embarrasses 'Africa'.
Slavery murdered and raped its way into the psychology of the African, leaving a deep rooted mess that can only be understood by the African themselves, but rarely is.
I personally think the Transatlantic Slave Trade need not be a badge of African shame.
To be enslaved is not to be a slave... there is a difference.
It's time that Africans see the 'so called' descendants of slaves, not as slaves.. but as Africans. and it really is as simple as that.
The African shame or denial is an embarrassment to the diaspora.. and pointless.
That is not to deny the beautiful Caribbean Island cultures that are a wonderful creolized blend of African and Caribbean history. That it not to deny the other cultural influences that those of us in the diaspora now have, no. But it's to recognize that to be ashamed or to deny the African in others, is to keep that transatlantic slave trade alive and well for generations to come.
and please tell me 'Haiti' didn't fight the bloodiest revolution for nothing.
What I would say however, and one thing that is very clear to me is that with the current issues affecting the continent, it is understandable that the historical 'blip' of 'that Slave Trade', will not sit at the forefront of pressing concerns,
Yes, now that...I understand.
Peace x
Sources [The incredible quest to find the African slave ships that sank in the Atlantic]
[How descendants of slaves are stigmatized for life]
**
Are Africans ashamed of their slave past and descendants, and if so... why?.
All fingers point to the answer being ... yes. For it is very rare to hear an African born African speak about, or have an opinion on the slave trade even though the impact on the history of the continent is undeniable.
What exists is a sense of 'other-ism' towards the diaspora, with Caribbean, America or UK born Africans being viewed in a sense, as the 'exotic' 'mixed', 'not quite right' or not African at all 'other'..
What is that other-ism?.
Well it is possible that the African complicity in the Slave Trade renders it difficult for some to speak as an authority on the ills of the Trade. It's equally possible that as slavery was in practice across parts of Africa even before the trans Atlantic Slave Trade that there exists an underlying belief that perhaps slavery is not all bad at all.
Parallels are often made with the Jewish holocaust, yet these parallels are relatively pointless.
Unlike the Jewish holocaust the African slave trade has never really garnered the same level of recognition as a horrific crime against humanity. Black people who speak about slavery are often met with frowns, deep breaths of tolerance, and in general they are expected to get over it, forget about it, and move on. Comments which will never be spoken to any Jew of European heritage, who do not appear in any way ashamed of their holocaust,but angry, and have found a way to ensure the world never forgets.
One of the reasons I believe these events have been remembered so differently is the sheer scale of the African Holocaust. There are simply too many stories, too many slave owners, too may countries, and the absolute enormity of the dispersal renders most people aghast. Unlike the Jewish holocaust who has a focus of 'one key bad guy' ( Who the 'world fought against and defeated).
It is not so with the African Holocaust.
Ironically, part of the reason for the lack of recognition could be in part due to the lack of interest of the African themselves. I have had several discussions with individuals who in not knowing my own background say things such 'they are not really African', or behave as though black slave decedents or black Africans born outside of the continent have something in their DNA which is perhaps not quite right (forgetting of course as they do... their own children birthed abroad)
Comments made in 2012, by the then-President Abdoulaye Wade, that his opponent, Macky Sall, could not and should not be elected because he was “the descendant of slaves.” further allude to that being a strongly held belief among many.
Whilst this was proved untrue and Sall succeeded in becoming President of Senegal, that level of contempt from a man who ironically received much of his education in France; a former colonial power, is very telling.
For that level of ignorance to have held power is a worry, but is it really an isolated thought, or isolated ignorance?
The former Presidents cronies may have laughed at the time, but the reality is such ignorance can prove to be a real an obstacle to unity and an obstacle to progress.
But it's that 'not quite right' aspect I wish to explore further, as it will help to highlight the erroneous nature of the slave trade and indeed, colonialism.
Africa today is as class-ist as any other class stratified country. How these classes are formed vary, but you can bet that slavery remains an aspect of that stratification, whether many realize it or not.
Poor people are not just 'born poor'. The family you are born into, your name, your tribe... will all tell a story with regards to which class you either hail from, or need to remain in.
To those of us who view these points as somewhat unimportant minor details, in reality for others, they can seriously impact, and often define the value of a persons human-ness.
The 'not quite right' aspect....may not be quite what you think however.
That 'otherness' is not necessarily the European, Indian, Arab or any 'otherness', the 'otherness that is often deemed 'not quite right'
shockingly appears to be... its very own African Identity.
It appears that it's little more than the African identity of Slave descendants that most embarrasses 'Africa'.
Slavery murdered and raped its way into the psychology of the African, leaving a deep rooted mess that can only be understood by the African themselves, but rarely is.
I personally think the Transatlantic Slave Trade need not be a badge of African shame.
To be enslaved is not to be a slave... there is a difference.
It's time that Africans see the 'so called' descendants of slaves, not as slaves.. but as Africans. and it really is as simple as that.
The African shame or denial is an embarrassment to the diaspora.. and pointless.
That is not to deny the beautiful Caribbean Island cultures that are a wonderful creolized blend of African and Caribbean history. That it not to deny the other cultural influences that those of us in the diaspora now have, no. But it's to recognize that to be ashamed or to deny the African in others, is to keep that transatlantic slave trade alive and well for generations to come.
and please tell me 'Haiti' didn't fight the bloodiest revolution for nothing.
What I would say however, and one thing that is very clear to me is that with the current issues affecting the continent, it is understandable that the historical 'blip' of 'that Slave Trade', will not sit at the forefront of pressing concerns,
Yes, now that...I understand.
Peace x
Sources [The incredible quest to find the African slave ships that sank in the Atlantic]
[How descendants of slaves are stigmatized for life]
**
Wednesday, 24 August 2016
Sun hot? So..Burkini or Bikini . ft Ali Farka Touré - 'Diaraby'
It's so hot. I've hardly any clothes on but I really want to strip down to my bikini and do nothing. Preferably by the sea but today I am not.
The funny thing about heat is that ironically, the less you wear can often be the hotter you feel; which is why in some of the world's hottest environments such as the Sahara Desert, they wear very loose fitted clothing. The Tuareg people for example wear long indigo robes and head cloths which aids when travelling (as they do) across large swathes of sand.
Why am I talking about this?.
because I cannot quite understand for one minute how on earth anyone can think that the 'Burkini' is a comfortable item of clothing for a woman or girl to wear on a beach in the hot sun. Better than jeans i'm sure, but still..
Bikini it out, or.. find a robe.. or quit.
Women... jeesh.
Let me tell you a story.
I was not your average teenager ( if there is one)
In fact, at 15 I had embraced a lifestyle and culture which required me to dress a certain way, in addition to perhaps thinking a certain way. From the outside I looked positively Muslim... just cooler:). I was quite serious about my beliefs, never ever wore trousers and always covered my hair. I got into a lot of trouble for it, because of my age and the fact that I was still at school. So...recent debates about whether people should be allowed to wear religious or cultural garments to school or work is relatively old hat to me. I've lived through it, and the simple answer as far as I'm concerned is yes; as that's an aspect of respecting and embracing multicultural diversity. The fact that these questions still arise is an indication that the racially biased status quo hasn't moved on as much as it could.
The reality is however that my stance didn't 'change the world' as i'd hoped. In fact my peers were busy perming their hair or playing with boys. whilst I was playing cultural politics.
Things change.
Nevertheless I would also say to anyone having that experience.. look at the big picture, take acting classes and move on.
In reality unless you belong to the dominate culture you will be expected to conform in a number of areas. Pick your battles.
This is not to say that you shouldn't stand up for what you believe in , no, feel free to pave the way for others who will almost certainly experience the same old dilemma, but just know, life is like a game of chess... or is it snakes and ladders..
In truth, very few people will give a shit.
I respect a woman's right to dress as she pleases. But that's entirely it. More often than not we as women do not dress as we please rather to please... and therein lies the difference and the problem.
Burkini or Bikini, both garments send a signal about the type of woman you are, and equally are designed more often than not to appeal to the 'reasoning' of the opposite sex.
Women are often placed into boxes
Sometimes ( if smart and depending on which part of the world you hail from) a woman can straddle two or three boxes..maybe more, call it the alternative intersectionality if you like.
so,,, often we have
the ho or slut. ( the sexually easy one)
the virgin ( prized right up until that virginity is taken and then all bets are off )
the wife ( no man must touch))
the mother ( the enabler.. lol)
the princess ( so cute it's unreal but spoilt/demanding )
the queen ( wonderful woman, if only she was a freak)
the freak ( oh yes..the freak.. the one you can indulge every crazy sexual fantasy until she wants more.. like.. a relationship)
I'm being playful as you know, but with a hint of truth.
How a woman dresses on a beach may allude to any of these stereotypes
the sad thing is ( or rather the irony is) we women do it to ourselves.
we uphold and maintain our own subjugation
from fgm to patriarchy
we do it
because ultimately for many men the box is simple... you, are less important than.. me
everything else is fodder.
The French banned the Burka, yet seem unable to put two and two together in that cultural intolerance of others can be a breeding ground for resentment.
Now i'm really hot.
oh my god are these my people? lol [click]
Peace x
Just because..
The funny thing about heat is that ironically, the less you wear can often be the hotter you feel; which is why in some of the world's hottest environments such as the Sahara Desert, they wear very loose fitted clothing. The Tuareg people for example wear long indigo robes and head cloths which aids when travelling (as they do) across large swathes of sand.
Why am I talking about this?.
because I cannot quite understand for one minute how on earth anyone can think that the 'Burkini' is a comfortable item of clothing for a woman or girl to wear on a beach in the hot sun. Better than jeans i'm sure, but still..
Bikini it out, or.. find a robe.. or quit.
Women... jeesh.
Let me tell you a story.
I was not your average teenager ( if there is one)
In fact, at 15 I had embraced a lifestyle and culture which required me to dress a certain way, in addition to perhaps thinking a certain way. From the outside I looked positively Muslim... just cooler:). I was quite serious about my beliefs, never ever wore trousers and always covered my hair. I got into a lot of trouble for it, because of my age and the fact that I was still at school. So...recent debates about whether people should be allowed to wear religious or cultural garments to school or work is relatively old hat to me. I've lived through it, and the simple answer as far as I'm concerned is yes; as that's an aspect of respecting and embracing multicultural diversity. The fact that these questions still arise is an indication that the racially biased status quo hasn't moved on as much as it could.
The reality is however that my stance didn't 'change the world' as i'd hoped. In fact my peers were busy perming their hair or playing with boys. whilst I was playing cultural politics.
Things change.
Nevertheless I would also say to anyone having that experience.. look at the big picture, take acting classes and move on.
In reality unless you belong to the dominate culture you will be expected to conform in a number of areas. Pick your battles.
This is not to say that you shouldn't stand up for what you believe in , no, feel free to pave the way for others who will almost certainly experience the same old dilemma, but just know, life is like a game of chess... or is it snakes and ladders..
In truth, very few people will give a shit.
I respect a woman's right to dress as she pleases. But that's entirely it. More often than not we as women do not dress as we please rather to please... and therein lies the difference and the problem.
Burkini or Bikini, both garments send a signal about the type of woman you are, and equally are designed more often than not to appeal to the 'reasoning' of the opposite sex.
Women are often placed into boxes
Sometimes ( if smart and depending on which part of the world you hail from) a woman can straddle two or three boxes..maybe more, call it the alternative intersectionality if you like.
so,,, often we have
the ho or slut. ( the sexually easy one)
the virgin ( prized right up until that virginity is taken and then all bets are off )
the wife ( no man must touch))
the mother ( the enabler.. lol)
the princess ( so cute it's unreal but spoilt/demanding )
the queen ( wonderful woman, if only she was a freak)
the freak ( oh yes..the freak.. the one you can indulge every crazy sexual fantasy until she wants more.. like.. a relationship)
I'm being playful as you know, but with a hint of truth.
How a woman dresses on a beach may allude to any of these stereotypes
the sad thing is ( or rather the irony is) we women do it to ourselves.
we uphold and maintain our own subjugation
from fgm to patriarchy
we do it
because ultimately for many men the box is simple... you, are less important than.. me
everything else is fodder.
The French banned the Burka, yet seem unable to put two and two together in that cultural intolerance of others can be a breeding ground for resentment.
Now i'm really hot.
oh my god are these my people? lol [click]
Peace x
Just because..
Tuesday, 23 August 2016
How Brazil had to face its African self. ft Tekno - Pana [Official Video]
How long before the world tires of Usain Bolt's 'off the track' antics and he becomes 'Jamaican' again? :)
Hmmm.. the clock is ticking
I suspect it will depend on what he chooses to do once he officially retires, who he chooses to marry, and who he chooses to hang out with. It will be interesting to see just how far male 'Jamaican-ness' outside of Bob Marley will travel.
I jest , somewhat.
It's fair to say that I watched as much of the Olympics as I could and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was an event filled with highs lows and outright laughs ( thanks Haiti).
Well done to all the athletes who took part; and as the sun shone today, the country welcomed home team GB, with pundits hailing these games the most successful in a century.
I absolutely adore Nicola Adams and felt a real sense of pride watching the athletes emerge from the plane showcasing their winning medals.
2nd on the medals table is very impressive, team GB has come along way with many putting the medal haul success down to investment in the form of National Lottery funding.
There were many stand out moments, but one of the funniest moments for me was watching Haitian hurdler Jeffrey Julmis, who after showboating for the camera then went on to show the world he must have trained with 'baby hurdlers!' no seriously, it was funny. Got to feel sorry for him though..he'll probably want to forget that race
Funniest comment came from an anonymous Tweet which said.. 'he had one job.... smh. I'm no longer Haitian'.
Other funny comments included the after race commentary of.... 'Kenya' will be disappointed' (2nd place not good enough Kenyans?)
another gem came from Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe who allegedly called the entire Zimbabwean Olympic team useless!, and ordered for them to be detained as soon as they landed back at Harare International airport! lol
( Is someone making this stuff up?)
“We have wasted the country’s money on these rats we call athletes. If you are not ready to sacrifice and win even copper or brass medals (referring the 4th and 5th positions) as our neighbors Botswana did, then why do you go to waste our money” [click]
Too funny for words!.
The Olympics is a social scientist's dream in many ways.
The games 'harmlessly highlight' our prejudices, biases, sense of nationalism, ego, views on gender, classism, racism... the works.
On one hand it may appear as though the arena of sport transcends race and class but it doesn't. From lying about being robbed to cover for causing a disturbance and thinking it OK, to the questions of whether or not a woman with higher than average levels of testosterone should compete with other women. Questions as to why with such an impressive Olympic display from the black American athletes and the love they show for their country and visa versa, is there still an issue with police brutality and overt racism across many parts of the States.
Perhaps one has to be a 'winner' to get some love. It reminds me of the old adage that anyone of colour has to be three times better to get by.
The world will celebrate Bolt on the podium, yet fear his lookalike, on the sidewalk.
There was certainly no shortage of beautiful black women on the podiums of Rio.
A fantastic sight given Brazil's unfortunate but not uncommon attitude towards black women of African heritage.
In fact Rio could not escape or deny that the excellence they may wish to deny or subject to discrimination in private, had to now be revered in public.
Surely these games will be a game changer for Brazil
Peace x
Hmmm.. the clock is ticking
I suspect it will depend on what he chooses to do once he officially retires, who he chooses to marry, and who he chooses to hang out with. It will be interesting to see just how far male 'Jamaican-ness' outside of Bob Marley will travel.
I jest , somewhat.
It's fair to say that I watched as much of the Olympics as I could and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was an event filled with highs lows and outright laughs ( thanks Haiti).
Well done to all the athletes who took part; and as the sun shone today, the country welcomed home team GB, with pundits hailing these games the most successful in a century.
I absolutely adore Nicola Adams and felt a real sense of pride watching the athletes emerge from the plane showcasing their winning medals.
2nd on the medals table is very impressive, team GB has come along way with many putting the medal haul success down to investment in the form of National Lottery funding.
There were many stand out moments, but one of the funniest moments for me was watching Haitian hurdler Jeffrey Julmis, who after showboating for the camera then went on to show the world he must have trained with 'baby hurdlers!' no seriously, it was funny. Got to feel sorry for him though..he'll probably want to forget that race
Funniest comment came from an anonymous Tweet which said.. 'he had one job.... smh. I'm no longer Haitian'.
Other funny comments included the after race commentary of.... 'Kenya' will be disappointed' (2nd place not good enough Kenyans?)
another gem came from Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe who allegedly called the entire Zimbabwean Olympic team useless!, and ordered for them to be detained as soon as they landed back at Harare International airport! lol
( Is someone making this stuff up?)
“We have wasted the country’s money on these rats we call athletes. If you are not ready to sacrifice and win even copper or brass medals (referring the 4th and 5th positions) as our neighbors Botswana did, then why do you go to waste our money” [click]
Too funny for words!.
The Olympics is a social scientist's dream in many ways.
The games 'harmlessly highlight' our prejudices, biases, sense of nationalism, ego, views on gender, classism, racism... the works.
On one hand it may appear as though the arena of sport transcends race and class but it doesn't. From lying about being robbed to cover for causing a disturbance and thinking it OK, to the questions of whether or not a woman with higher than average levels of testosterone should compete with other women. Questions as to why with such an impressive Olympic display from the black American athletes and the love they show for their country and visa versa, is there still an issue with police brutality and overt racism across many parts of the States.
Perhaps one has to be a 'winner' to get some love. It reminds me of the old adage that anyone of colour has to be three times better to get by.
The world will celebrate Bolt on the podium, yet fear his lookalike, on the sidewalk.
There was certainly no shortage of beautiful black women on the podiums of Rio.
A fantastic sight given Brazil's unfortunate but not uncommon attitude towards black women of African heritage.
In fact Rio could not escape or deny that the excellence they may wish to deny or subject to discrimination in private, had to now be revered in public.
Surely these games will be a game changer for Brazil
Peace x
Majek Fashek ft 2Baba Idibia – No More Sorrow
Freshly revived for 2016, it's nice to hear this from Majek Fashek, very Marley-esque
Originally written in the 90s this is a very inspirational track from the once highly acclaimed and legendary Nigerian reggae singer.
An apt song given this singers long hard battle with drugs, and definitely and apt song for all times.
Nice x
Originally written in the 90s this is a very inspirational track from the once highly acclaimed and legendary Nigerian reggae singer.
An apt song given this singers long hard battle with drugs, and definitely and apt song for all times.
Nice x
Monday, 22 August 2016
Skales - Ajaga Ft. Davido x Timaya
Dancehall Don Timaya features on this track by Skales. Davido also features and whilst his efforts a little mild he compliments the track beautifully, and respectfully doesn't overshadow Skales.
A little more bass on the mix would have taken this track to another level
Very nice track none the less.
A little more bass on the mix would have taken this track to another level
Very nice track none the less.
Friday, 19 August 2016
Will Sierra Leone ever be ready for a female President?
..and not just in football..
Isha Tejan-Cole Johansen is the 1st female president of the Sierra Leone football Association SLFA. [click]
and that's great..
but would the country vote for a woman to lead the nation?
There is definitely a shift taking place worldwide, and perhaps it really is time for women to clean up the mess.
If the men will listen that is
( and yes, I know that we women are equally guilty.. well.... 60/40%, of contributing to it and are not perfect)
but still...
Would they vote?
In a similar vein would Nigeria ever be ready?
Sometimes change happens ready or not though right?
Dr Zainab Hawa Bangura could be a worthy contender if she had any interest in such a role.
Well... I like her anyway
the little I know
I think a woman of such caliber could make a real difference
(2013)
Isha Tejan-Cole Johansen is the 1st female president of the Sierra Leone football Association SLFA. [click]
and that's great..
but would the country vote for a woman to lead the nation?
There is definitely a shift taking place worldwide, and perhaps it really is time for women to clean up the mess.
If the men will listen that is
( and yes, I know that we women are equally guilty.. well.... 60/40%, of contributing to it and are not perfect)
but still...
Would they vote?
In a similar vein would Nigeria ever be ready?
Sometimes change happens ready or not though right?
Dr Zainab Hawa Bangura could be a worthy contender if she had any interest in such a role.
Well... I like her anyway
the little I know
I think a woman of such caliber could make a real difference
(2013)
Moseray Fadika: A People's Champion. ft Patoranking & Wizkid This Kind Luv
What makes a peoples champion?
Today will be a sad day for many people across Sierra Leone after the recent passing of Goodwill Ambassador Gibril Santigie Moseray Fadika ( affectionately known by some as Super)
Today he will be laid to rest in Freetown.
Moseray Fadika was co-founder and executive chairman of African Minerals Ltd., alongside the multi-billionaire Frank Timis,
He was considered by many to be one of the richest men in Africa.
He was the Vice Chairman of Shandong Steel (SL) Ltd and Executive Director of Pan Africa Minerals Ltd, and it's stated that he possessed an investment portfolio in Africa of over $3.1 Billion.
With an election due to take place next year, Moseray Fadika was expected to contend the leadership of the ruling APC party, with the potential to become Sierra Leone's next President.
At only 53, it's fair to say that his life was cut short.
What he achieved in his time however was considerable.
He will be greatly missed by his family and fans i'm sure.
So what really makes a people's champion?
It's fair to say that in a poor country a man of wealth will always be held in awe. What he signified to many was .. hope.
His life was a real symbol of hope for the poorest in society, as Moseray Fadika did not emerge from a wealthy background.
Despite hailing from a poverty, what he was given however, was a chance; a chance that he grabbed with both hands.
Money alone did not make Fadika... his strength of character, his drive, his focus, and his enthusiasm did
It's my hope that it's not just his wealth that made him such a people's champion in the eyes of the people, but his character.
His ability to relate to those who had.. and those who had not. It's irrelevant now to wonder what kind of leader he would have made had he become President. In a way Moseray Fadika will remain relatively untarnished. He will never be the leader that 'let the people down'. His legacy will remain one of a man that wished the best for poorest of people.
I know of no poor leaders across Africa. Not one.
It takes money to get things done for sure, but in reality, it's not just money alone. It's a question of intent.
My only wish is that we begin to value not only wealth, but the content of our characters. The essence of our spirit, and our will.
By most accounts Ambassador Moseray Fadika sounded like a kind man..a good man..
and sometimes the good go too early
RIP to a people's champions and an influential leader
Peace
Today will be a sad day for many people across Sierra Leone after the recent passing of Goodwill Ambassador Gibril Santigie Moseray Fadika ( affectionately known by some as Super)
Today he will be laid to rest in Freetown.
Moseray Fadika was co-founder and executive chairman of African Minerals Ltd., alongside the multi-billionaire Frank Timis,
He was considered by many to be one of the richest men in Africa.
He was the Vice Chairman of Shandong Steel (SL) Ltd and Executive Director of Pan Africa Minerals Ltd, and it's stated that he possessed an investment portfolio in Africa of over $3.1 Billion.
With an election due to take place next year, Moseray Fadika was expected to contend the leadership of the ruling APC party, with the potential to become Sierra Leone's next President.
At only 53, it's fair to say that his life was cut short.
What he achieved in his time however was considerable.
He will be greatly missed by his family and fans i'm sure.
So what really makes a people's champion?
It's fair to say that in a poor country a man of wealth will always be held in awe. What he signified to many was .. hope.
His life was a real symbol of hope for the poorest in society, as Moseray Fadika did not emerge from a wealthy background.
Despite hailing from a poverty, what he was given however, was a chance; a chance that he grabbed with both hands.
Money alone did not make Fadika... his strength of character, his drive, his focus, and his enthusiasm did
It's my hope that it's not just his wealth that made him such a people's champion in the eyes of the people, but his character.
His ability to relate to those who had.. and those who had not. It's irrelevant now to wonder what kind of leader he would have made had he become President. In a way Moseray Fadika will remain relatively untarnished. He will never be the leader that 'let the people down'. His legacy will remain one of a man that wished the best for poorest of people.
I know of no poor leaders across Africa. Not one.
It takes money to get things done for sure, but in reality, it's not just money alone. It's a question of intent.
My only wish is that we begin to value not only wealth, but the content of our characters. The essence of our spirit, and our will.
By most accounts Ambassador Moseray Fadika sounded like a kind man..a good man..
and sometimes the good go too early
RIP to a people's champions and an influential leader
Peace
Tuesday, 16 August 2016
Sunday, 14 August 2016
Sunny Sunday
Beautiful song.
Summer 2016.
and heading towards a birthday countdown.. or 3
Okay so... DJ Maphorisa releases his album on my special day huh. That's sweet x
**
Look what I found x
Mthande lyrics - Musa Sukwene
Umbambe ngesandla
Umbheke emehlweni njalo
Umtjel' uyamthanda
Uzambon' emoyizela
[chorus]
Mthande, mthande umuntu wakho x2
Mncome, mncome umuntu wakho x2
Ubombamba ngesandla
Umbhek' emehlweni
Umncome njalo
Umtjel' izmadzadza
[chorus] x2
Umcharme njalo, umspoile njalo
Umtjele njalo' ukuth' uyamthanda
Umcharme njalo, umspoile njalo
[chorus] x2
**********
[Translation]
Hold her hand
Stare into her eyes
Tell her you love her
You will see her blushing
[chorus]
Love her, love your person x2
Compliment her, compliment your girl
You should hold her hand
Look into her eyes
Compliment her all the time
Tell her she is beautiful
[chorus]
charm her always, spoil her all the time
Always tell her you love her
Never stop charming and spoiling her
Summer 2016.
and heading towards a birthday countdown.. or 3
Okay so... DJ Maphorisa releases his album on my special day huh. That's sweet x
**
Look what I found x
Mthande lyrics - Musa Sukwene
Umbambe ngesandla
Umbheke emehlweni njalo
Umtjel' uyamthanda
Uzambon' emoyizela
[chorus]
Mthande, mthande umuntu wakho x2
Mncome, mncome umuntu wakho x2
Ubombamba ngesandla
Umbhek' emehlweni
Umncome njalo
Umtjel' izmadzadza
[chorus] x2
Umcharme njalo, umspoile njalo
Umtjele njalo' ukuth' uyamthanda
Umcharme njalo, umspoile njalo
[chorus] x2
**********
[Translation]
Hold her hand
Stare into her eyes
Tell her you love her
You will see her blushing
[chorus]
Love her, love your person x2
Compliment her, compliment your girl
You should hold her hand
Look into her eyes
Compliment her all the time
Tell her she is beautiful
[chorus]
charm her always, spoil her all the time
Always tell her you love her
Never stop charming and spoiling her
Tieks ft. Dan Harkna - Sunshine [ perfect track for London's summer sun]
It's rare that I showcase UK house but I just love this addictive track.
Yay
I Love it so much!
Oh btw way.. the Labour party are finished.
One dominant party will remain.
If the Tory's master the center under Theresa May that's it.
Tom Watson was a mistake for Jeremy Corbyn.. but who cares now.. really.
Happy Sunday people x
Good luck Usain!
Yay
I Love it so much!
Oh btw way.. the Labour party are finished.
One dominant party will remain.
If the Tory's master the center under Theresa May that's it.
Tom Watson was a mistake for Jeremy Corbyn.. but who cares now.. really.
Happy Sunday people x
Good luck Usain!
Zulu King: "I won't let my people forget our history" - [Talk to Al Jazeera]
Very interesting history, and very interesting interview
That the King states that he prays to Jesus Christ I found somewhat confusing given the Zulu history and culture.
Anyway
The Reed dance ceremony sounds randy
On the surface it's reported to be an 'initiation ceremony' in which young women and girls preserve their virginity until marriage. But, it's also reported to be little more than a parade of bare breasted young women for the King to choose yet another wife.
If it's the latter, then KMT King, mi no likeee. :-)
If however he is really just trying to halt the spread of HIV and minimize the sexual exploitation of younger girls by elder men then fine.
[but i doubt it. his response to how the dance raises HIV awareness, was accompanied by an uneasy smirk.. followed by the words... culture]
That the King states that he prays to Jesus Christ I found somewhat confusing given the Zulu history and culture.
Anyway
The Reed dance ceremony sounds randy
On the surface it's reported to be an 'initiation ceremony' in which young women and girls preserve their virginity until marriage. But, it's also reported to be little more than a parade of bare breasted young women for the King to choose yet another wife.
If it's the latter, then KMT King, mi no likeee. :-)
If however he is really just trying to halt the spread of HIV and minimize the sexual exploitation of younger girls by elder men then fine.
[but i doubt it. his response to how the dance raises HIV awareness, was accompanied by an uneasy smirk.. followed by the words... culture]
Mo takes Gold!
How emotional was Mo Farrah's race?. Wow Gold medal winner again!.
Well done to Jessica Ennis Hill..
Greg Rutherford took 3rd place in the long jump, and as gutted as he was, well done to him.. what a competitor.
in fact all the athletes of course, but i'm just loving the Olympics as you know.
If I could turn back time that's the only thing I'd 'change I think. I would have never given up that side of my career.
It's proving to be an amazing Olympics for team GB.
Rowing Cycling running... all good
I watched as Mo Farrah beat the Kenyan on the home straight.
Mi watch im fall, roll over, git up, rub im ball head and say yo Kenyan, nuh mess wid me, nuh watch mi flag, a Somalia mi born an grow
After such a dramatic race this gold must be even sweeter.
No seriously, what a superior Athlete he is( with beautiful skin to boot)
Did us proud
Nice one for the Brits
East Africans, long lean and athletic
Some people are born to run. seriously, it's in their dna, scientists can't prove it but the track results do :)
They train extremely hard no doubt, but it's not just that, as we know East Africans have dominated long distance running for years. Many of the worlds most successful distance runners hailing from mountainous districts, and living and training at altitude, places them at an advantage.
Checking the 800m & 1500m schedules..
I'm missing 'stuff' without a timetable hope I haven't missed it lol
Apparently Rudisha hasn't been in the best form
Just a thought . but why dont we have more Maasai doing the high jump :-) heehee
Good morning x
Well done to Jessica Ennis Hill..
Greg Rutherford took 3rd place in the long jump, and as gutted as he was, well done to him.. what a competitor.
in fact all the athletes of course, but i'm just loving the Olympics as you know.
If I could turn back time that's the only thing I'd 'change I think. I would have never given up that side of my career.
It's proving to be an amazing Olympics for team GB.
Rowing Cycling running... all good
I watched as Mo Farrah beat the Kenyan on the home straight.
Mi watch im fall, roll over, git up, rub im ball head and say yo Kenyan, nuh mess wid me, nuh watch mi flag, a Somalia mi born an grow
After such a dramatic race this gold must be even sweeter.
No seriously, what a superior Athlete he is( with beautiful skin to boot)
Did us proud
Nice one for the Brits
East Africans, long lean and athletic
Some people are born to run. seriously, it's in their dna, scientists can't prove it but the track results do :)
They train extremely hard no doubt, but it's not just that, as we know East Africans have dominated long distance running for years. Many of the worlds most successful distance runners hailing from mountainous districts, and living and training at altitude, places them at an advantage.
Checking the 800m & 1500m schedules..
I'm missing 'stuff' without a timetable hope I haven't missed it lol
Apparently Rudisha hasn't been in the best form
Just a thought . but why dont we have more Maasai doing the high jump :-) heehee
Good morning x
Saturday, 13 August 2016
Mzee & Rafiki Feat. Uhuru - Domba
I was curious to know more after a commentator suggested the track would have made more sense if sung by a woman.
Venda is a South African tribe and Domba is a female initiation phase of this tribe.
Like most female initiations this prepares girls for marriage sex motherhood and taking care of their husbands.
I dont know the details with regards to any other practice carried out but in a nutshell that's it.
The track I suggest is a celebration of this aspect of their culture.
I love Uhuru, they never disappoint musically.
The bass line is on fire.
[Additional comment found online]
"Domba was the third and final phase in Venda girls' initiation, which should have been attended after a girl had been to vhusha and tshikanda. It took place every three to five years at the head-quarters of chiefs and certain senior headman, and lasted for about one year. Its importance to the Venda was marked by the use of the bass drum (ngoma), which was also used in tshikona, the Venda national dance. There were a number of special rites and shows associated with domba"
Good morning x
Venda [click]
Venda is a South African tribe and Domba is a female initiation phase of this tribe.
Like most female initiations this prepares girls for marriage sex motherhood and taking care of their husbands.
I dont know the details with regards to any other practice carried out but in a nutshell that's it.
The track I suggest is a celebration of this aspect of their culture.
I love Uhuru, they never disappoint musically.
The bass line is on fire.
[Additional comment found online]
"Domba was the third and final phase in Venda girls' initiation, which should have been attended after a girl had been to vhusha and tshikanda. It took place every three to five years at the head-quarters of chiefs and certain senior headman, and lasted for about one year. Its importance to the Venda was marked by the use of the bass drum (ngoma), which was also used in tshikona, the Venda national dance. There were a number of special rites and shows associated with domba"
Good morning x
Venda [click]
Friday, 12 August 2016
Simone Manuel's Historic Win in Rio [ & a Maximum Sound Riddim Mix]
Simone Manuel won gold in Rio [click]
The first black women in Olympic history to win gold in the 100m freestyle
How amazing is that?
I recently wrote about Eric from Equatorial Guinea.. respect to him
I looked at some stereotypes and toyed with a theory [look at this, who comes up with these names lol]
Some may wonder why her colour or background is relevant.
To cut a long story short; because the absence of it has been a marker/ or symbol of a system of denial of opportunity based on colour/background.
Simone shared the podium with Canada's Penny Oleksiak with whom she shares joint 1st place.
Times are changing
Congratulations girls!
Women power
Loved the cycling...
Now let track and field commence :)
800m/ 1500m great
Good morning x
[Revised Edit]
The first black women in Olympic history to win gold in the 100m freestyle
How amazing is that?
I recently wrote about Eric from Equatorial Guinea.. respect to him
I looked at some stereotypes and toyed with a theory [look at this, who comes up with these names lol]
Some may wonder why her colour or background is relevant.
To cut a long story short; because the absence of it has been a marker/ or symbol of a system of denial of opportunity based on colour/background.
Simone shared the podium with Canada's Penny Oleksiak with whom she shares joint 1st place.
Times are changing
Congratulations girls!
Women power
Loved the cycling...
Now let track and field commence :)
800m/ 1500m great
Good morning x
[Revised Edit]
Wednesday, 10 August 2016
Blueberryhaze riddim ft Chrisopher Martin - London Queen.
Can we love Chris any more...?
Ahhhh too nice.
Riddim of the summer for me x
Ahhhh too nice.
Riddim of the summer for me x
A look at - Eric Moussambani & the Sydney Olympics
Do you remember 'Eric the Eel?
Eric Moussambani Malonga from Equatorial Guinea was the only swimmer to swim his heat at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
It was so funny!
He became a worldwide sensation.
In the the short film below Eric talks about his journey to the Olympics, and re-tells the story of his experience.
Despite the fact that I laughed almost uncontrollably initially whilst watching a 're-run' of the 'race', the film itself is actually quite moving, and I have a great deal of respect and admiration for him for the courage and determination he displayed.
Whilst I dont know what he's doing now, I really hope he is doing well and was taken care of on his arrival back home, as an Olympian should be.
I was reminded of Eric as I watched the 'all American' boys take gold. ( congratulations to them, and the great Michael Phelps) Britain can stand proud with their silver medal as the American team is an outstanding team.
But as I watched the not very diverse (yet diverse) podium I thought about the stereo type I've heard on occasion, that black people dont, or cant swim.
I thought about a very bad joke I came across recently which said something along the lines of not being able to swim yet loving boat rides.
The bad joke and the stereo type, gave way to me contemplating the African experience with water. Water has played and continues to play a very significant role in the lives of the African.
The transatlantic slave trade and the psychological terror of hundreds being thrown over board. Men women children living and /or dead, food for sharks and other sea creatures, tales of sea creatures who reside in the sea; of water spirits who take people at will, water shortages, or floods, right up to the present day terror of people trafficking, rocky boats on the Mediterranean sea, over flowing with people desperately seeking a better life.
What resides in the subconscious of the African mind when it comes to water?
Heck... that's some scary stuff.
Fortunately, I learnt to swim, so I can confirm that the theory that we are unable to float is untrue :~)
My interesting suggested theory of potential psychological distress due to historical horrors with waters deeper than baths aside, and the potential to connect it with a post traumatic slave syndrome theory - in reality..... it's probably down to a lack of resources( an Olympic sized training pool, trainers) and nothing else.
Much love to Eric :)
[Watch]
Eric Moussambani Malonga from Equatorial Guinea was the only swimmer to swim his heat at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
It was so funny!
He became a worldwide sensation.
In the the short film below Eric talks about his journey to the Olympics, and re-tells the story of his experience.
Despite the fact that I laughed almost uncontrollably initially whilst watching a 're-run' of the 'race', the film itself is actually quite moving, and I have a great deal of respect and admiration for him for the courage and determination he displayed.
Whilst I dont know what he's doing now, I really hope he is doing well and was taken care of on his arrival back home, as an Olympian should be.
I was reminded of Eric as I watched the 'all American' boys take gold. ( congratulations to them, and the great Michael Phelps) Britain can stand proud with their silver medal as the American team is an outstanding team.
But as I watched the not very diverse (yet diverse) podium I thought about the stereo type I've heard on occasion, that black people dont, or cant swim.
I thought about a very bad joke I came across recently which said something along the lines of not being able to swim yet loving boat rides.
The bad joke and the stereo type, gave way to me contemplating the African experience with water. Water has played and continues to play a very significant role in the lives of the African.
The transatlantic slave trade and the psychological terror of hundreds being thrown over board. Men women children living and /or dead, food for sharks and other sea creatures, tales of sea creatures who reside in the sea; of water spirits who take people at will, water shortages, or floods, right up to the present day terror of people trafficking, rocky boats on the Mediterranean sea, over flowing with people desperately seeking a better life.
What resides in the subconscious of the African mind when it comes to water?
Heck... that's some scary stuff.
Fortunately, I learnt to swim, so I can confirm that the theory that we are unable to float is untrue :~)
My interesting suggested theory of potential psychological distress due to historical horrors with waters deeper than baths aside, and the potential to connect it with a post traumatic slave syndrome theory - in reality..... it's probably down to a lack of resources( an Olympic sized training pool, trainers) and nothing else.
Much love to Eric :)
[Watch]
Female, Black, & from the Favelas - Brazils 1st GOLD Medalist
Congratulations to Rafaela Silva, who won the 1st gold medal for Brazil.
Her win has been viewed as a great triumph for Brazil, not only because it's their first gold medal of the games, but because of where she has come from, (her background) and the colour of her skin.
In Brazil, being black ( or having dark skin) is often viewed with disdain.
An unfortunate aspect of Brazil which harks back to African chattel slavery.
( Rafaela has reported in the past that she has been the recipient of numerous racist messages - and ironically, she isn't even that dark skinned;
that's how deep rooted colorism and anti dark skin sentiment can be)
Brazil's wonderful opening ceremony paid homage to the contribution of Africans, which was great, but changing hearts and minds is rarely as 'easy' as planning or putting on a show.
If only it was.
The notorious slums of Brazil, the Favelas, are no doubt filled with talent. Talent, black skins and the desire for change.
But they can also be filled with hope.
It doesn't matter where you come from or how poor you start out
It may be the beginning of the journey but it doesn't have to be the end
You're a star baby
Nice 1 girl x
[For More info - see BBC Article]
Her win has been viewed as a great triumph for Brazil, not only because it's their first gold medal of the games, but because of where she has come from, (her background) and the colour of her skin.
In Brazil, being black ( or having dark skin) is often viewed with disdain.
An unfortunate aspect of Brazil which harks back to African chattel slavery.
( Rafaela has reported in the past that she has been the recipient of numerous racist messages - and ironically, she isn't even that dark skinned;
that's how deep rooted colorism and anti dark skin sentiment can be)
Brazil's wonderful opening ceremony paid homage to the contribution of Africans, which was great, but changing hearts and minds is rarely as 'easy' as planning or putting on a show.
If only it was.
The notorious slums of Brazil, the Favelas, are no doubt filled with talent. Talent, black skins and the desire for change.
But they can also be filled with hope.
It doesn't matter where you come from or how poor you start out
It may be the beginning of the journey but it doesn't have to be the end
You're a star baby
Nice 1 girl x
[For More info - see BBC Article]
Tuesday, 9 August 2016
Flavour live in concert - One Africa Music Fest (July 2016)
Nice 1
His band are amazing.. as are those white pants ;)
His band are amazing.. as are those white pants ;)
Diaspora. ft May D ft. Wizkid – Bamilo
Exotic erotic
that dark skinned fetish
Have you heard about it?
The colours the sounds
RED earth
GREEN hills and mountains
BLACK skinz
Don't fetishize me
just love me
If a land could talk perhaps that's what it would say
To Africans across the diaspora, who march on for reparations
I admire your spirit my children
I really do
But I'm not perfect by any means, and I pray I never disappoint you
Place me not on high
Just keep me in your heart where it matters most
Deep within your values
Your integrity
Will speak of me
Through actions
You see...I can never leave you
I'm the blood that runs though your veins
the carbon in your hair
Feel me
You couldn't lose me if you tried
and I can never be taken away from you
For I am yours
and you are mine
Yes, perhaps that's what it would say
If a land could speak
Relax.
that dark skinned fetish
Have you heard about it?
The colours the sounds
RED earth
GREEN hills and mountains
BLACK skinz
Don't fetishize me
just love me
If a land could talk perhaps that's what it would say
To Africans across the diaspora, who march on for reparations
I admire your spirit my children
I really do
But I'm not perfect by any means, and I pray I never disappoint you
Place me not on high
Just keep me in your heart where it matters most
Deep within your values
Your integrity
Will speak of me
Through actions
You see...I can never leave you
I'm the blood that runs though your veins
the carbon in your hair
Feel me
You couldn't lose me if you tried
and I can never be taken away from you
For I am yours
and you are mine
Yes, perhaps that's what it would say
If a land could speak
Relax.
Tekno - Pana
I must admit to getting very caught up with watching Richard Kruse trying to win a bronze medal in Rio.
He came so close after making a great come back, then ... it was all over.
**
Cool n easy
He came so close after making a great come back, then ... it was all over.
**
Cool n easy
Friday, 5 August 2016
Mo Farah - Race of his Life [documentary]
A great film, and I can strongly relate to this.
It's been awhile that I've sat down to watch anything, but I'm that glad I did..
Not long now before the greatest show on earth commences..
Good morning x
It may still be available on YouTube if not try Iplayerx*
It's been awhile that I've sat down to watch anything, but I'm that glad I did..
Not long now before the greatest show on earth commences..
Good morning x
It may still be available on YouTube if not try Iplayerx*
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