The Sixty Second Day.

Sid Ashford: As promised, here is the video I recently created displaying what a normal Sunday would look like in matter of sixty seconds.

(Directed, produced, and edited by Me.)

iPhone Daily Flick 9/30.

Sid Ashford: With all the competition between PC & Mac, it's clear to see which side I strongly support. My MacBook has been an essential key in my work and studies since late 2007. I often think of it as my "happy medium" between work and play. What's yours?

I'm Sid Q&A With Kerin Rose.

1. It'll be fine for you to address me as:

"kerin". It's pronounced like "kevin" or "erin". "Girl" is okay, "lady" is okay, "ma'am" or "miss" are only acceptable if you're an old southern gentleman. "Bitch" is fine, "slut" is not. I'm a stickler for accuracy ;)"

2. Upon creating "a-morir" I had visions of it:

"affording me the ability to maybe pay my rent in 2 years time. It took 7 months."

3. When I'm not thinking of ways to futher a-morir's success, it's likely to catch me:

"dead? Having sex? When you own your own business it becomes your 3rd arm. A-morir is my 3rd arm... My super sparkly 3rd arm. I don't think about it while fucking, and I won't think about it when I can't think anymore. having said that, today was one hell of a day and my brain is fried. this interview will absolutely reflect that. you excited?"

4. I think of my style as:

"hyperstylized & innate. I've dressed the way I dress - which is a bit costum-y, even if it's something 'simpler' - since I was 4 & allowed to dress myself. You can refine your style but I do believe it's something you're born with. My sister, for instance, has been a classic, preppy dresser since she was a lil' thing. She too has a very hyperstylized & innate style, it's just more audrey hepburn and science professor than ziggy stardust and gorgeous ladies of wrestling. at this point i don't even think about it. it just "is."

5. My lack of love for capital letters probably originated from:

"how cute the alphabet looks in lowercase! honestly, i don't know, but it's safe to deduce it has something to do with formality. i'm not a very formal person; i like to make people feel comfortable. and when you spend so much time communicating with people via email/txt/etc, which is a realm where caps-lock is subconciously jarring, i would like to think these cute, curvy lowercase letters offer a warm hug."

"don't get me wrong, however, i have the utmost respect for the english language, the written word, and punctuation. i have read strunk & white cover to cover. i take a lot of pride in the fact that i can use a semicolon properly and know rules about proper comma usage."

6. If I had to name two individuals, male, and female who are dominating fashion consistantly, it would be:

"thierry mugler (couture) rihanna (day to day)"

Because:

"Thierry hasn't designed runway for years & his influence is perpetually domating. You know why anyone cares about what lady gaga is wearing? Because her current stylist has access to the mugler vault. Which is where I want my bedazzled urn kept when this a-morir business finally kills me."

"And even before rihanna was wearing a-morir she was serving on the daily. The shapes, styles, and overall look she wears changes from day to day; she's a public figure who is showing us "everyday people" that they can wear thigh high lazer cut rodarte boots (or something comparable, natch) out to brunch, for fuck sake."

7. I find it strangely funny:

"that this has become my life. i'm a professional bedazzler! rihanna calls me on the phone! i talk to lil jon about "bling"! that's not so much strangely funny as it is utterly ridiculous. gossip blogs have called me a "genius", i've had people tell me i've "single handedly changed the eyewear game" and people who have no relation to the fashion industry know what the barracudas are. and i'm all "i'm just a girl sitting in her apartment creating some stuff!" remember when hillary swank started winning oscars and would hit the podium and cry about how she was just "some girl from a trailer park"? i totally feel her. i'm the hillary swank of bedazzling in that respect."

8. The Vibe interview made me feel:

"like all interviews make me feel - surprised that people know who i am and flattered that people care what i have to say. i didn't really think it was a big deal until my friends were like "you're interviewed on VIBE.COM! that's HUGE!" between that interview going live yesterday and FINALLY getting my hands on the vogue italia with a-morir in it i'm not mad at this week."

9. Since Twitter:

"can be used as an effective marketing tool, i joined when the line started rolling. twitter has connected me with my clients, has let me easily stay in touch with my friends as my time has become more and more consumed, and lets me feel a lot more important than i am. most recently, one of my followers alerted me to the fact that some sad "designer" had lifted barracuda images from my site and was selling the barracudas as his design; i think twitter expedited the whole process of me finding out."

"i'd also like to point out that twitter is one of the most narcissistic, self indulgent "social networking" or "microblogging" tools that the internet has spawned as of late. if i may make a shitty drug analogy: i haven't blogged, but i joined twitter. that's like skipping coke and going straight to rock in the world of "my opinion matters on the internet."

10. I feel that Sid's blog http://sidashford.com is:

"obviously awesome if i'm going to be on it! (kidding. for real for real. not about the obviously awesome thing though. still: awesome) i'm new to the blog, but i appreciate the pages i've read. i also appreciate the questions you've asked in all your interviews. the only beef: i can't figure out how "the game" is a "girlfriends" spin off. help me."

Yes, She Is Really That Cool.

In an age where our economic status is in one of its worst stages in history, it's difficult to find an individual who actually does what they love, and gets compensated greatly for it. With her own personal title as a "professional bedazzler," Kerin's changed the way we view fashion accessories, and has pushed the level of creativity to a degree that most designers have yet to attain. Most famous for her "barracuda" shades Rihanna wore in the "Run This Town" video, Kerin has quickly made a name for herself, while landing credits in Vogue, Vibe, and Fashion Week Daily.

I want to thank her for participating, and wish her the best with the future of a-morir. You can follow her on Twitter, as well as check out her site HERE.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/29.

Sid Ashford: I often refer back to quotes when I find myself in a life changing decision. The one I'm most fond of happens to be "The only time you lose, is when you decide to quit." I feel I'm a step closer to my dream every single day. I'm up at 6:00am brainstorming ideas to further my place in the world, and by 9pm I'm surely to feel accomplished.

"That's all I gotta say, at the top is where I stay. And tell my haters never go away, The Winner."

-Aubrey Drake Graham

Cons ft. Kanye & John Legend: "Whatever You Want"

MTV's Hottest MC's List 2009.

With all the controversy that surrounds an affair such as hand picking the "hottest mc's of the year" its only fair if everyone has their opinion, so here is mine. Below is the top 5 picks from last year:

I don't have much of an argument towards the top picks of last year made by the good people over at MTV, however this year raises a lot of speculation of exactly whose paved their way onto list with the presence of so much new talent. It appears their decision is made solely on who's has been relevant during the current year, not allowing artists to ride of the last LP they dropped two years ago. This is where most fans find confusion when they see an absence of artists such as Eminem, The Game etc.. 2009 brings in a new era where its not necessary for an artist to have a single record sale for them to be considered as a front runner in the industry. (ex. Kid Cudi, Drake, Wale.) What artists such as the previously mentioned have been able to achieve thus far without any real profitable evidence aside from Kid Cudi, whose album "Man On The Moon: The End Of Day" dropped September 15th, is nothing short of prodigious. They have re-pioneered the defintion of mixtapes, producing in some instances a caliber of work that excels most albums today. It's also in their advantage that they have great supporting camps behind them. I definately won't be suprised to spot atleast one of their names on this years list.

Returning to the obvious, I'm almost certain you'll find the two top men from last year also topping this years list. In a years time, Kanye has released 808's and Heartbreak, the emotional heart-felt album about his previous relationships and losts. He has also managed the careers of his fellow G.O.O.D Music aritsts such as Kid Cudi, Mr. Hudson, and Big Sean. Jay-Z along with creating Roc-Nation has released his latest album in The Blueprint Series, again solidifying why he's the most celebrated rapper of this decade. Gaining his eleventh number one album, The Blueprint 3 pushes Jay-Z past Elvis in the record books. It's only right since he has an "Empire State Of Mind." As far as the official list goes, you will have to tune in to MTV on Sunday, October 4th.

Coming To A Site Near You..

As you can see in the screen shot above, I have once again created a short-film, entitling this one "The Sixty Second Day." It covers a full day of events in a quick sixty seconds. The Sixty Second Day will be released this coming Wednesday.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/27.

Sid Ashford: While visiting the Nike Outlet, I spotted the phrase "Mind Over Mileage" outside the window. Your mind is the most powerful weapon you carry. Its the reins that guides you toward success when your body has gave way. Success is often attained by those whom mental strength outweighs their physical strength.

The New New?

Sid Ashford: After my first "Ferris Bueller Day" in months, I awoke this am feeling refreshed, and greatly inspired. Surfing through the site's in my blogroll, I found myself parked on MTV's homepage reading the header: "Hottest MC's In The Game Begins Monday!" A "sneaky" grin begins to take shape on my face, and you'll have to return tmmrw for the conclusion to this story. 

Ferris Bueller's Day Off?

Ferris Buller's "Sid Ashford's" Day Off.

Only no faking HERE.

Allergies have controlled me ALL WEEK.

I figure friday, i'll pretend my bed is a

1961 Ferrari GT, and go for a joyride.

Kanye & GaGa: Fame Kills Tour.

Fame Kills from kwest on Vimeo.

Black Televsion Shows 90'-Present.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air first aired September 10, 1990, and took Will Smith from a small time rapper, to one of the best actors of our time. The show served as a different element to his career, and also added longevity. Smith plays a street born hard head from West Philadelphia sent to live with his Uncle (James Avery), a successful lawyer (later a judge) in Bel-Air. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, ran for 6 seasons totaling 148 episodes, and has recently gained plenty buzz due to its re-runs being aired on Nick At Night. 

August 27, 1992 FOX debuted the American Sitcom we all know as Martin. The show solidified a career for comedian Martin Lawrence, and included a supporting cast of Tisha Campbell, Thomas Mikal Ford, Tichina Arnold, and Carl Anthony Payne II. Lawrence displayed his many talents as he had several roles often playing other characters like: Sheneneh Jenkins, Jerome, Mama Payne, Dragonfly Jones,  and many more. Martin was very succesful gaining many awards before its last episode on May 1, 1997.

Girlfriends premiered on September 11, 2000 on the UPN Network. Set in Los Angeles, California, it displayed the lives of four African-American women (Joan Clayton, Toni Childs, Maya Wilkes, and Lynn Searcy) searching for diffrent things in life. Reggie Hayes (William) the girls best friend was also a familiar face of the cast. Girlfriends ran for 8 seasons, and a total of 172 episodes. It was the highest rated show upon African-American adults at the time.

A spin-off of the highly successfull sitcom Girlfriends, The Game made its debut October 1, 2006. Its cast consisted of Tia Mowry Hardrict, Pooch Hall, Hosea Chanchez, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Cody Bell, and Brittany Daniel. Unlike the rest of the shows mentioned, The Game only ran for 3 seasons (64 episodes), but had an impact just as big due to the directors genius plot. In an attempt to save The Game, BET is currently in negotiations with CBS to release the rights of the show.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/24.

Sid Ashford: I think it's great to find major establishments such as universities, and resturants that support recycling. In fact they play a bigger part in keeping the earth clean, due to the amount of traffic they recieve. It shouldn't stop there. We shouldn't depend on a business, restuarant, or a neighbor to solve a problem we all created. If you we all do our part, the would shall be a better place. Peace.

Maestro Knows: Episode 9 (Nike Campus)

Maestro Knows - Episode 9 (Nike Campus) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

In the episode follow Maestro and his friend Jarrett as he takes his journey through the infamous Nike Campus headquarters for the first ever tour on video.

Black Television Shows 70'-89'.

One of the first black television shows "Sanford and Son" starring Redd Foxx, and Desmond Wilson first aired on NBC January 14, 1972. A true classic, Sanford and Son was the building block that made it possible for shows like "Martin," and "Girlfriends" to have accumalated the success that they had. Fred G. Sanford, a local junk-dealer in Los Angeles went through 6 season of laughs with Lamont, Grady, and his biggest enemy Esther. The show is most famous for Fred's world-known phrase, "Elizabeth, I'm coming to join you honey."

Two short years later on February 8, 1974, CBS launched its own American Sitcom "Good Times." The show produced 6 seasons, and ran until August 1, 1979. Unlike Sanford and Son, it showcased how to overcome realistic everyday problems. It's cast were perfectly picked, and definitely displayed many personalities for watchers to relate to. It's most quoted for the word that Jimmie Walker (J.J) transformed and gave a new meaning to, "Dynamite."

The Cosby Show is arguably the greatest American show of all-time. Debuting September 20, 1984, The Cosby Show accolades include 2 Emmy's, 2 Golden Globe Awards, 3 NAACP Image Awards, as well as 26 People Choice Awards. The "Huxtables" were portrayed as a well-sized middle class family growing up in Brooklyn, New York. The show served many of the cast members as a great start to their careers (ex. Raven Symone.) It ran for 8 years totaling 191 episodes to become the third longest running comedy of all-time.

With ties to the Cosby Show through Denise Huxtable (the second oldest child), A Different World's  6 year run began on September 24, 1987. This sitcom reached out to an audience that had be often over-looked, young adults. It's setting was Hillman College, in reality Spelman College, and featured, and star studed cast from Jasmine Guy to Kadeem Hardison. The show touched on issues that surround daily American Universities such as rape, war, self-esteems, and diseases. Like the Cosby Show, A Different World also served as a great start for many actors, and actresses.

Last, but surely not least on the list of dominating black television show from 1970-1989 is "Family Matters." First airing September 22, 1989, many people don't know that Jaleel White (Steve Urkel) did not making his debut until midway through the first season. The show was originally set to be based around Carl Winslow, and his family. With such great ratings on the episodes Jaleel appeared in, he was quickly set as the shows main character. Family Matters became the second longest running black sitcom, airing a total of 215 episodes over 9 seasons.

Sid Ashford: Stay tuned for tommrow's part two of Black Television Shows 90'- Present.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/23.

Sid Ashford: As of late I feel that certain sneakers like (Chucks & Vans) look much more fashionable when their worn, and broken-in. With sneakers such as these in high demand, you can often times look around you to spot several individuals wearing a pair. Kid Cudi said in a recent interview "dirty sneakers symbolize where you've been in life." Great concept.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/22.

Sid Ashford: I thought this was an awkward find to see lockers on a college campus, so I had to document it. With so many individuals sharing the dream of being a "star," it's imperative that you have a back-up plan. Why not school? An education can take you to far distances, and provide a sturdy foundation for you life. If your not as talented as you thought, or as good as you hoped.. You'll have something only about 27% of the people in the United States have, a college degree.

I'm Sid Q&A With Jasmine Kim.

1. For those who may not be familiar of you, or the work you do, tell us about yourself.

"My name is Jasmine. I am the Sales Manager for the Specialty Store Division of Oliver Peoples, Inc. I am in charge of national sales for Oliver Peoples and Paul Smith and west coast for Mosley Tribes. I've been with the company a couple months short of 4 years. My boss also calls me the "ambassador of Mosley Tribes" but that's kinda weird. I do everything from design input, special projects, marketing, styling, creative direction, sales, brand education, etc... practically from the day the brand launched. I like to play dress up every time I walk out the door. Sometimes I'll wear sweat pants to the office (and get in trouble) or wear heels to the grocery store. Whatever fantasy I'm living in at the moment. I usually dress like a boy during the day and a stage performer at night (so they say...) Does that make me a tranny? And like most fashion industry folk - I have A.D.D."

2. Working for a popular brands definitely has its perks, what do you feel is the most exciting part about working for Mosley Tribes?

"The most exciting part of my job is that I get to have my hands in so many different areas of the brand within such a big company. I am rogue pawn in a big chess game that moves around and affects a bunch of things on the low. The other obvious perks would be that I have eyeglasses and shades for days. I think I may just have enough to open up shop. Maybe you'll find me on the street corner selling shades out the trunk of my car if the economy doesn't get better. (Just kidding don't fire me). And I get to travel the country visiting all my favorite boutiques for a living. Now if only I can get to do that for international...."

3. Before the start of your career with Mosley Tribes, what's the ideal job you wished for in life?

"I think the ideal job I would like to have right now is to be the devil who wears Givenchy. Now if I can just find a signature haircut to wear for the remainder of my life I'll be that much more close to achieving my ideal job. :) I'd love to design my own collection someday too."

4. Explain in detail what a normal day in the life of a sales manager for Mosley Tribes consist of:

"When I'm not traveling, doing tradeshows, or visiting my local accounts you can find me in the office buried in emails, stuck in meetings, and running my mouth on phone calls.  How glamorous is that right? I get a lot of random visitors too everybody from rappers, designers, moochers, stylists, friends in the area, etc... I like visitors - you're all welcome. Just kidding. Please don't."

5. Music is such an important part of our lives, whether it be a tool for inspiration, or a subject to which we can relate too. What's some of your favorite artists and why?

"I totally agree. Music is one of the biggest elements of my life. I love all types of music but I'm a big "emo" "angsty" music enthusiast. Even when I'm in a good mood I love and appreciate the emotion... Sadness inspires me and pain makes me feel alive. Muse, Snow Patrol, Feist, Portishead, Coldplay, Jimi Hendrix, Sia, Mary J. Blige, Keyshia Cole, Mariah Carey the list goes on... When I'm not doing tissue time music its usually gangster rap. My friends who know me know you can't take the hood out of me. "Don't let the light skin fool you. I will fuck you up." lol"

6. My favorite pair of Tribes happen to be the classic "Delroy's." Which pair could we find Jasmine normally wearing?

"I'm not the "glam" frame kind of girl so you can usually find me wearing the rock n roll retro styles from Paul Smith's collection or the fun flip up Mosley Tribes "Gates." I also wear a lot of vintage Oliver Peoples from the 80's. I'm also OBSESSED with the new Mosley Tribes resort/spring 2010 collection style "Chambers." We also did custom colors of this for the edgy contemporary brand Hellz. It's hurtin major feelings... It's my baby and I'm proud (shameless horn tooting.)"

7. With such an awesome job on hand now, do you have anything you hope to accomplish aside from the brand?

"I need to accomplish being a grown up at some point in the near future..."

8. Which city serves a better fit for your lifestyle LA, or NY?

"NY definitely fits my lifestyle and hunger for fashion but I can't take living in the cold. So I stick to sunny LA and love everyday of it. :)"

9. What's the one thing most people don't know about Jasmine Kim?

"For almost half of my life I used to live in a trailer park. And when I moved in a double wide - I thought it was the shit. I'm grateful for my humble beginnings. Fashion and city life can get disgusting sometimes."

10. What are your thoughts on http://sidashford.com/ in its current state.

"You are an inquisitive blogger Sid! :) I think that there are a lot of multi-faceted attributes to your blog and not just one type of lifestyle, focus, or culture. And your photography is always crispy. Keep it up."

Sid Ashford: I want to thank Jasmine for taking the time to participate in my interview. I'm glad I had an oppurtunity to work with her, she's really cool :) I wish her the best in the future! Follow her on Twitter, and check out Mosley Tribes HERE.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/21.

Sid Ashford: Shown above is yet another picture of my number one fan, or my "gal pal" as she says :) In life no matter what you're trying to accomplish, it's very important to have people that stand by you, and support your dreams. They'll be there to bask in your happiness when you achieve a goal, or to pick you up when you didn't quite make it.

Jeremy Enigk "Mind Ideas."

Mind Idea OFFICIAL Video from Eric Ulbrich on Vimeo.

Sid Ashford: (via: Kanye's Blog) This video is the absolute dopest video i've seen this month! Why that may not appear to be much, it's a huge deal determining the fact I watch tons of footage each day. It features four kids skateboarding throughout and urban neighborhood, while Eric Ulbrich and his team capture several defining moment shots.

I'm Sid Q&A With Kid Green.

1. For those who may not know you, or what you do, tell us about yourself.

  
"Well lets see. First and foremost I am an artist...I draw, design, creative consult, and write! You would never know it because I think I've always been a New Yorker at heart in terms of style, the music I grew up listening to, and my appreciation for being surrounded by hundreds of cultures - but I am actually a true born and raised California girl. Westside til' I die ; ). I come from a big and close latino/italian family and I moved to NY about five years ago to go to NYU where I studied cultural anthropology, environmental studies, and studio art. Moving to NY from Los Angeles, California was definitely a big adjustment. Not one part was easy. Finding an apartment (a full time job on its own), getting used to real seasons and a real winter!, living in a ruthless urban jungle, the transportation, all on top of the already difficult changes that come with going away to college in a new city away from home, family, and friends. But I guess thats New York for you. It is also what I love so much about New York. Despite changes in the city aesthetically and visually over the past years, it has always remained the home of art, fashion, design, innovation, culture, and music! There isn't one block that doesn't speak volumes, that doesn't have the ability to inspire and provide for you in some way. What you want to take from it is up to you. The opportunities are limitless.

So you could say my true loves in life are music, the environment, and culture (all that good stuff that goes into it - food, fashion, history, and language). Coming from my mixed family taught me at an early age to embrace culture and differences in background. Growing up in California gave me a natural appreciation for the environment. And if it wasn't for my siblings who are about ten years older than me, my energy for music, for hip hop and the culture that gave birth to it, would never be the same.

I grew up raised by my amazing parents, my four siblings, and their friends - most of whom were in the music industry as A&Rs, artists, DJs, and producers. So my childhood was a little atypical than most other LA kids. While most young teenagers were out with fake i.d.s trying to get into clubs and destroying their parents homes with house parties, I spent most of my nights in the studio with west coast DJ/producer and family friend DJ Quik, on tour with Naughty by Nature, Cypress Hill, and my "older brother" Danny Boy from House of Pain, shopping on the weekends with close friends Jodeci, and giving my opinions on video treatments and album covers as a youngster to management teams. I was that kid that people just liked having around because I brought a sense of realness, honesty, and positive energy to the room. In turn most of these same people helped raise me and were in turn deep influences when it came to the music I listened to and the personal style I developed. Ten years later I think I have remained to be that name kid in a lot of ways."

2. What sparked your ultimate decision to make a difference and create GreenJAR.net?

"I've been an huge advocate for the environment ever since a really inspiring and motivational teacher in high school convinced me to join her small Environmental Studies class. The class was so small and she was so tough (we all have that one teacher that just kicks our butts and makes our hearts race - usually the best one) that you couldn't come to class without really knowing your stuff. In turn, it caused me to be more involved than I had ever been in a subject of study before. For the first time in school, it wasn't work anymore, because I enjoyed it and I was passionate about learning more. Ever since I've worked hard at challenging myself to become as informed as I can be about the state of our environment and incorporate what I learn into my lifestyle as much as possible. This has effortlessly caused me to be a huge advocate and spokesperson for the environment to my friends and family. 

I've been working on environmental campaigns and initiatives for large corporations for about the past three years within the music and fashion industry. Sometimes when you have so many different passions, people will advise you to focus on one. I've always been someone that could never settle for following just one of my passions. Instead I try to combine them daily, the environment with fashion, music, and culture, etc... And I think I've done a pretty good job so far. I could be wrong. So in a way I'm paving this path for the first time and it can get a little nerve-wrecking because I have no pattern to follow. 

When it came to GreenJAR. GreenJAR is really my dream of showing the relevancy of being environmentally conscious to cultures, demographics, and industries that might see themselves removed from it. GreenJAR is the first environmental lifestyle website that caters to a culture thats values are based heavily on music, design, street fashion, and a city life. It is the one place where you can go inform yourself about the environment where "being green is not at the forefront" of the message. But being You is! Every article has a laid back and casual tone that is approachable and accessible. And every product review is something you would want to learn about regardless if it had to do with the environment or not. Essentially its a place where you can go and read about the environment without losing your cool."

3. One way you've managed to reach out to the youth is through GreenJar.net features with artists such as Kid Cudi, and Jeremih. Explain how these are made possible.

"I love talking about the environment and all I can hope for is that people enjoy and will continue to enjoy coming to my site, reading my articles, and are taking something away from it. But at the end of the day, there are some people, such as artists, celebrities, and influential speakers and executives that have the ability to reach a larger audience in a much more powerful way. 

The the environment is fortunate to have many people speaking on its behalf, it can never have enough. And when we consider urban music few people have chosen to take a stand for the environment in a very public way enough to really translate the message to their fans and admirers. The truth is people do have an opinion. So why not share it. GreenJAR is a platform for the urban community to become informed about ways they can contribute to the environment by people that are arguably leaders within their communities. Kid Cudi was GreenJAR's first spokesperson and if you go to the site now, Def Jam artist Jeremih can be found speaking about reusable water bottles. 

Living in New York and most recently working at Island Def Jam has allowed me to work closely and form relationships with artists. The ones that are supportive of the movement that GreenJAR represents are the ones you will find on our site. At the end of September you'll be able to catch Wale on there."

4. A normal day in the life of Jamie Baratta would consist of:

"A normal day consists of struggling to find structure! Waking up around 8 in downtown NY where I live, getting it in at the gym, sifting through e-mails and going through my goals for the week at the start of my day while I eat my breakfast, getting the word out there for all the new GreenJAR posts (written the night before) via an array of the crazy PR allies we have today on the internet. Then mid afternoon I'll usually venture out via my bike to the Island Def Jam office where I am now a freelance creative consultant to catch up with associates and see what projects are going on, later I'll have a couple meetings with companies and management teams that I work closely with on brand strategizing, I'll return home or find a chill cafe to work on upcoming projects, proposals, and designs, and at night you'll either find me at one of my favorite restaurants with friends eating everything in site, in the studio listening to new music, or attempting to perfect my skills as a wanna be DJ at dubspot in Chelsea. And if energy permits after writing up my GreenJAR articles for the next day, heading out to a lounge or club to unwind. Its important to work hard but it is important to also balance your time and energy. So of course there are those  days where I'll stay focused and dedicate my time to only one project and stay put at home for hours on end."

  

5. With the buzz about Green Jar consistently growing, do you plan on expanding the brand, possible merchandise, or collaborations?

"Absolutely. Right now I want to really focus on the site as a media go to destination for environmental news before I try to juggle too many things at once. The site will be selling merchandise this winter of which will include collaborations with brands (that I'm not going to mention just yet) that we are all very familiar with. And early this fall we will be producing and sponsoring events of which we will be keeping all the readers tuned into. I don't want to mention to much just yet though!"

6. With the world increasingly accepting the "go green" concept by altering cars, books, lighting, and fashion, where do you see the earth's health in 5 years?

"Five years isn't much. So I wouldn't say that we are going to be able to statistically see much difference. But we will definitely feel a difference in terms of awareness and lifestyle changes. Right now we see so much environmental activism in marketing campaigns and product altercations. Its a little overpowering. Soon more and more people will understand how to contribute to the state of our environment and make it something personal that works for them." 

7. New York's restaurant "The Spotted Pig" has been named as a great eco-friendly stop. Explain their involvement.

"The Spotted Pig has been around for a long time and its for sure one of New York's most special places to enjoy amazing food, good music, and a great staff in a laid back and casual mixed environment. Even when I try to take breaks from going there in order to venture out and discover new places, I somehow always gravitate back to it where I'll find myself spending hours upon hours there catching up with old friends and always making new ones. What I love most about the pig is that while the owners of the restaurant are a team of superstars, it is known for its food and not for its company. 

One of my good friends who works there informed me about the degree to which their restaurant makes an effort to stay environmentally conscious with all of their food being completely natural and composting the larger majority of waste disposal daily around the same time GreenJAR launched. This sparked our opening feature story on the restaurant/gastro pub."

(Checkout Jamie at the "Spotted Pig," in Episode 4 of Maestro Knows Tour Edition.)

8. Recently the "ESPY" awards went to great extents to create a very "green" setup.  Explain your excitement upon hearing the news.

"Well I was very quick to inform my readers about this. I am a huge sports nerd. I grew up in a very sports dominated household, where each weekend was either spent at a game or at home watching multiple games. There was seriously a huge phase in my life where I was considering being a sports agent when I grew up. Other than the Nike Reuse a Shoe campaign which I am heavily involved in, I haven't seen many athletes or sports organizations lending their name to the environment. So naturally, when I learned about the ESPYS I was super stoked...a little jealous that I couldn't be apart of it, but nonetheless really excited about the incorporation of a green setup to their event production."

9. You've landed your first nationally televised air-time. What's your first sentence to address the world?

"Well to "OPEN THE JAR" of course!"

10. What's the one thing people might not know about Jamie that you find interesting?

"Something I find interesting...I'm probably the worst person to answer this question because I'm horrible at looking at myself like that. I'll have to get back to you on this one!"


Sid Ashford: I want to thank Jamie for taking the time out to participate in this interview. I wish you the best and I will tell everyone to "open the jar!" Head over to GreenJar.net and check it out now! 

iPhone Daily Flick 9/18.

Sid Ashford: The world is full with art everywhere we look, whether its a downtown wall tagged by a local graffiti artist, or large columns that stand abroad at the local university. Art is much more than a painting, a mural, a song, or a drawing. It's defined as : "the conscious use of skill and creative imagination." Enjoy it. Peace

Another Number One Album.

"see Ye is, running the "Chi" like Gale Sayers,

I'm running New York, I got the mayor, on my pager

you cant fade us, you hate us"

Sid Ashford: With Jay's first week sales totalling 475,000, the "Blueprint 3" is Jay's eleventh number one album.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/17.

Sid Ashford: The phrase "Go For Broke" is often misunderstood by many people. It simply means: "To commit or expend all of one's available resources toward achievement of a goal." If you believe in something you shouldn't necessarily expend all you revenue in it, but surely give it your all. If you exert a half-hearted effort, you will receive a half-hearted result.

Maestro Knows Episode 8: Virginia Beach

"Old school ghetto crunkness."- Maestro.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/16.

Sid Ashford: I received an email yesterday from my lady friend, displaying the above photo.. Of course it made me smile, and feel good inside (: So many of us have been hurt by what we think is "love." When actually it's not love that hurts us, it's that person. Love isn't a "thing," it's a choice. When you choose to love someone, you choose to put them before many things in your life. Don't be afraid of love. Don't be afraid to choose.

Complex: Top 100 Sneakers of the 2000’s.

Sid Ashford: Weeks after releasing their list for the best 100 shoes ever, Complex also releases their list of the top 100 sneakers of the decade so far. Check it out HERE.

Kid Cudi- "Cuditastic.

Sid Ashford: With Cudi's highly anticipated album "Man On The Moon" release yesterday, the fans also got a bonus, as a new freestyle called "Cuditastic" surfaced. You can listen to it HERE.

I'm Sid Q&A With Fur Face Boy.

1. For those who may not know you, or what you do, tell us about yourself?

"My name is Ha Mai. I’m just an everyday guy trying to make it in this world by doing whatever the hell I want to do / how I want to do it through one of the most powerful mediums in the world – the T-shirt."

2. How did the whole idea behind Fur Face Boy come about?

"I was sitting at work coming off a horrendous break up. Fed up with my job and life as a whole I decided right then and there that I wanted to start a T-shirt line representing all things I like, love and am passionate about. Again, I just want to do whatever the hell I want to do / how I want to do it."

3. Incredibly at such a young age you've accomplished a lot of success with the Fur Face Boy Clothing Line, and its growth. What goals have you set for yourself as far as your brand goes?

"I’m very proud with the way the brand is progressing, but believe me when I say that I’m not even near where I want to be. I set my goals extremely high, yet I understand it’s gonna take time. There’s only one ultimate goal for FFB: To have Fur Face Boy a globally appreciated brand. Since FFB is only 8 months old, I haven’t put a gauge of success on it yet, so ask me again after a year."

4. With the styles changing from season to season, how do you keep your
products current, and refreshing?

"Truth is, I just do whatever I want to do. If I want a brightass yellow t-shirt for the winter, then fuck it…you’re gonna see me make a brightass yellow t-shirt in the winter; ill just wear a thermal underneath and throw on a jacket if it’s cold. Who’s to say I gotta follow standards and trends?"

5. With many clothing lines basing their offices in the fashion capitols Ca, and NY, I find it interesting you chose to base yours out of your home state, as well as mines Texas. What sparked your decision to stay home?

"Fashion capitals? THUH! I love Texas. Everyday I wake and I’m proud to say I’m Texan! I’m a Texas boy for life! Who says I gotta be from or move to CA or NY?!"

6. Your also a graphic designer correct? Were you always deeply in to art?

"Yea, that’s right. I’m a graphic designer and yea, I’m deep into art. But only because I’m deep into EVERYTHING. I don’t necessarily categorize art as “art”. A building, landscaping, furniture, a car, comics, cartoons, the human body, video games and music. To me everything is art."

7. In a day and age where they're many brands, what do you feel is the ingredient that give Fur Face Boy its identity?

"I’m not all about the money. I just do it to be happy. I try to make the brand very personal. If you go to my blog, you’ll find that every step I took to get to this point. Good news or bad news I share it with everyone to read about. If the brand ever totally fell flat on its face, then you’ll know about it. I make sure that all FFB shirts have a hand-made quality to them. Every shirt is STILL hand folded, bagged, labeled and inspected ALL by me. If you look on the inside of the shirt, you’ll find the proof."

8. What would a normal day in the life of Ha Mai consist of?

"Waking up at about 7:30am.  Sit in traffic for about 35 minutes to an hour. Get to work by 9am. Listen to art / creative / marketing directors bark in my ear all day. Switching up a design about 50 times over before reverting back to the original design.  Eat at Subway. Waste 1-2 hours sitting in a useless meeting. Head home. Sit in traffic for at least an hour. Play fetch with my dog, Bear Mai (The OG FFB) for 30 mins. Watch the King of Queens for an hour. Work on Fur Face Boy. Eat dinner. Back to work on Fur Face Boy. Walk Bear Mai for at least 30 mins. Work on more Fur Face Boy. Sleep at 2 or 3am. Repeat."

9. Is there anyone who you dream of having the chance to work with in the
future?

"Yea. Nike. Nuff said."

10. What were your first thoughts upon receiving me email, and checking out http://sidashford.com?

"I really feel that I’m a nobody. I’m just your average joe trying to fulfill his dreams, so for someone to take notice in what I’m doing, I was very flattered. When I checked out the site I thought it was a cool, simple, direct and easy to read site. Which, I like."

Sid Ashford: I want to thank Ha for taking the time out of his super busy schedule to work with me on this interview. Ha is a cool super talented guy, and I expect big things from this in the future. Check out FFB's site HERE, and also follow him on Twitter.

Kid Cudi "Man On The Moon: End Of Day" Review.

Sid Ashford: With September 15th finally here, as promised, it's time for me to give my final review on Kid Cudi's "Man On The Moon: End Of Day." First off, I must warn you guys I am very critical when it comes to art, and that it takes a true masterpiece for me to credit an album with "two thumbs up."

Act 1: The End Of Day
The album begins with "In My Dreams" (Cudder's Anthem), and very theatrical piece produced by Scotty's good friend Emile. The track is very straightfoward, and serves as an informant letting listeners know that this album is set inside the mind and dreams of Cudder.

Act 2: Rise Of The Night Terror

The album flows very quite smoothly credit that Scott Mescudi is actually be a really great story-teller. In Act 2 the stand out track would have to be "Heart Of A Lion"  produced by Free School. Cudi touches on the drive and fight that he carries during his journey of taking over the world, in preparation for the "re-build." Surely one of my favorite tracks on the album.

Act 3: Taking A Trip
In Act 3, we're served with a couple tracks that we've had the opportunity to hear sometime before the album dropped ("Day 'N' Nite, Sky Might Fall"). Aside from the great success Day 'N' Nite recieved, I don't think there is any way to exclude "Sky Might Fall" from easily being one of Cudi's best songs ever. Production from Kanye West also helps. The story behind the construction of this piece is a great one indeed, as Cudi simply presented Kanye with a melody and rhythm of exactly how he saw the track play out in his mind. Kanye quickly delivered and the rest shall be history.

Act 4: Stuck
In Act 4 we are faced with in my opinion the greatest section of the album. The songs include: "Alive, Cudi Zone, Make Her Say, and Pursuit Of Happiness." The production follows as: Ratatat, Emile, and Kanye West. I would have to say the song that won me over would have to be "Cudi Zone." There is no way I could ever write a sentence to describe the dynamics of how Scotty feels in his "Zone." If you were skeptical about the genius behind Kid Cudi, and wanted to listen to a song that wasn't a hit single, "Cudi Zone" would be perfect track to me. "Pursuit Of Happiness" is scheduled to be Cudi's official third single.

Act 5: A New Beginning
Obviously the shortest act, but in no way is Act 5 the lacking point of the album. It serves as a mere taste of what to expect from Cudi on the second chapter of three in the Man On The Moon Series. The song "Hyyer" features Chip The Ripper, a great friend of Cudi's and a partner in Cudi's upcoming compilation album. "Up Up & Away" is also a great tune that gives you a good vibe that it's ok to be yourself, and not worry so much what others think.

The Final Statement:
In closing I want to say before this album dropped I was a HUGE fan of Kid Cudi, and this album only justifies to millions why I made the choice of putting him so high above other established artist. I feel that he is years ahead of his self, and that he carries a definate message that stands out from what you would normally here today. I truly understand his message, and intentions on breaking down the barriers we've set for hip-hop. His music carries throughout all genres, and that we should be more open minded, and not only think outside of the box, but live there. I give the first ever LP project of Kid Cudi, Scott Mescudi two thumbs up.

Kydd- "Like This" Video Prod. By: Keef.

Sid Ashford: I've known Kydd for sometime now, and we've actually worked together on a track a while back. Yesterday, I ran into his manager who is actually a old friend of mine, and he presented Kydd's new stop-motion video to me for his new single "Like This." The video is really dope, and Kydd's future is sure to be bright with the great team he has behind him. You can check out other projects from Kydd HERE.

iPhone Daily Flick 9/15.

Sid Ashford: So yesterday I downed three "Pacific Cooler" Capri Sun's in the matter of hours. I understand that i'm 21, and Capri Sun's are targeted to kids, but you like what you like right? The point i'm getting to is that, although many of us are older, never let the kid in you totally dissapear. Have fun!

Mick Boogie/PBJ - Stay This Way (Remix) : By Mykola.

Sid :How exactly did the idea for you to design the video come about? Also explain reaction to landing the job.

Mykola: It was super random... I follow Mick Boogie on twitter (http://twitter.com/MickBoogie). He posted this tweet about how he needs animators real quick, so I responded with a link to my website (www.myk31.com). I didn't think he'd ever reply to be honest, LOL. But then, very next hour he emails me saying he likes my shit and that the style would fit well for the project he had in mind.

I was excited as hell, even though the original deadline was like 1 week (impossible!), which was changed later anyway. Plus I didn't care, I was stoked to do something for the artists involved, and I believe the song is just PERFECT material for a video like that.

Sid: Explain the concept you created for the video?

Mykola: Initially there was no specific concept, it was supposed to be kinda abstract. I showed samples to Mick and he was like "it'd be cool to have some characters representing the artists involved"
and I was like "hmm yea I can do that". So that's it concept-wise, basically illustrating what the song is about :). Technically speaking, I simplified the video as much as I could without watering it down and
taking away from the fun in it. So like, all the characters only have a head and not even hands,
the background is the same color thru the whole video, etc. Otherwise it'd be impossible to finish it in time.

Sid: From start to finish how long did it take you to create it?

Mykola: About two weeks. Maybe slightly less. I should've kept count haha.

Sid: Upon completion of the video, which scene turned out to be your favorite?

Mykola: Hmm there are a few.. But the TV-set scenes take the cake for me personally :). Especially the one with the Donkey Kong nintendo game, that was fun to recreate and it looks interesting in the video.

Sid Ashford: I want to thank Mykola again for taking the time out to answer a few question for me, for you.. The video is extra dope! Watch, like it, and then watch it again.

DJ Laser Presents...Roc Nation: The Mixtape.

On September 15th, 2009, NYC-based Mixtape DJ Laser is set to release Roc Nation: The Mixtape, the follow-up to his near-classic Slaughterhouse Mixtape. Roc Nation: The Mixtape will focus on music’s next generation of stars, all personally chosen by, and affiliated with, industry legend Jay-Z and his Roc Nation imprint.

Roc Nation: The Mixtape will be used as straight-to-the-core introduction for artists Wale, J. Cole, and Melanie Fiona, all three of whom have strong following & an even bigger one Online. The main focus of Roc Nation: The Mixtape is to bring these artists to the industry’s most proven stomping ground: the streets.

“Artists like J. Cole and Wale - they’re not as heavy in the streets as they are on the Web, people might know or heard about them, but not enough and not as much” says DJ Laser, reeling of the success of his previous two efforts (Slaughterhouse: The Mixtape, and The Best of Cam’ron, respectively). “This Roc Nation mixtape is really the first one to bring them to the mixtape circuit, to the street - kind of like Jay-Z’s introduction to his new regime. He feels like these Artists have the potential to become long-term, franchise players.” Laser continues, “J. Cole reminds me of Kanye - that hunger, the ambition and with so much to say, yet so early in his career. Wale, everybody knows about him - he’s one of the biggest artist if not the first to come out from the DMV area. Put them on the map, literally. Melanie Fiona, has such a beautiful voice, very versatile. Her music and beauty alone captivates attention. It Demands it, and with the anticipation of her debut Album, Malanie is well on her way. This mixtape is a tool to get people familiar with these great artists & bring awareness to their music.

Why, through a mixtape? DJ Laser, as the last of a dying breed, understands the importance of the street customer. “Mixtapes, especially when I was coming up, meant a lot to me; (they) helped me understand life situations, but more importantly it also helped me understand the music in other ways radio couldn't. Mixtapes provide you with that raw energy - something that the mainstream doesn’t provide.”

True to his beliefs, you’ll readily find Laser with a bag full of CD’s, slangin’ to your local Barbershop, Boutique, & Mixtape Spot. “Certain people I know, they don't know how to download a ZIP file let alone go to the hottest blog to even view the content. There's still a divided between the two. They wanna hear it now, so they just pop in a CD and keep it moving. But at the same time both (the streets & the Internet) are important.”


CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL DOWNLOAD LINK!

Sid Ashford: Shout out to Dj Laser for the info! He's doing MAJOR things with this mixtape. Support him, and follow my homie on Twitter.

2009 MTV VMA's Recap.

With the wild and wonderful events that took place in this years presentation, what a better way than to open up the ceremony with the "Queen of Pop" Madonna sharing her story and thoughts on the "King of Pop" Michael Jackson. Simply beautiful.

Following a wonderful introduction was a performance of Michael's greatest hits by very talented dancers. The performance goes quite well, and in my opinion the show reaches it peak upon Janet's entrance to the stage, as she performs her verse to the hit "Scream."

Scott Mescudi (Kid Cudi) showed an act of class during his performance by honoring the late great DJ AM before performing "Poker Her Face" with his friend Wale. The hit sounded pretty cool live, and Cudi had a ton of fun doing it. I wish MTV would have aired the entire performance, but all is well.

Lady GaGa gave the show that all of her fans were expecting of her. An act of pure artistry as she delivers what seemed to be a "thriller" flick throughout her performance. I could only imagine what her tour with Kanye would be like.

Despite all the mixed emotion behind the movie "Twilight", I am honestly pumped to see "Twilight: New Moon."The first installment was excellent, and after seeing the new trailer for New Moon, it's only taken my level of anticipation to another planet. Check out the new trailer HERE.



No need to get finger cramps about Beyonce's performance. She the world's greatest! She delivered. She also did a wonderful thing by letting Taylor Swift come up to thank everyone for her award.



Jay's and Alicia's performance was the most anticipated of the night. These two repped NYC to the fullest by performing in my opinion the greatest song of the BP3 "Empire State Of Mind." Classic.

Final rap-up: All in all, great showing from MTV. Loved the MJ tribute. Push the limits next year.