Lifestyle Blog | JimmyJazz.com

Barkley makes a comeback

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:30:02 +0000

Charles Barkley was a force on the court, though fans of today most likely tune in for his outrageous sports commentary on NBC. Despite his popularity off the court, some sneaker enthusiasts might be thrilled to learn his wild kicks from his time with the Phoenix Suns, the Nike Barkley Posite Max, will be released May 18.

According to Kicks On Fire, the latest in the Nike family is full of life and color, just like Barkley himself. The sneakers boast an almost entirely purple colorway with fun silver crocodile print adding major flair to the bottom portion of the kicks. Sneakerheads are sure to look fly when they rock these shoes, as they also feature an orange midsole, Nike Swoosh symbols and pops of teal on the sole of the high-tops.

The colors work perfectly to pay homage to Barkley's time on the Suns team. Sole Collector reports the scaly texture of the sneakers also plays on Barkley's personality - representing Barkley's Godzilla alter ego. Fans looking to add these kicks to their collection might also be pumped to learn the outsole glows in the dark. Those interested in purchasing the Nike Barkley Posite Max - Phoenix Suns can check out Jimmy Jazz stores or JimmyJazz.com.

Rook Brand Clothing now on Jimmyjazz.com

jpguilbert — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:54:19 +0000

From the creative minds of Joe King and Jon Garcia, Rook Brand clothing was formed. Joe and Jon have been designing in the skate/ surf/ streetwear world for over 6 years and now we at Jimmy Jazz bring them to you. Check out the some of the new summer release below and the rest online or at a store near you.

BIGGIE BEAR V3 TEE

DOBERMAN TANK TOP

BIG TEE

Monica expecting a baby

Tue, 14 May 2013 20:30:04 +0000

Monica made a name for herself in the late 1990's with her hit single "The Boy is Mine" alongside Brandy, and now she's back in the news for having a boy (or a girl). BET reports the R&B singer, who is married to Phoenix Suns star Shannon Brown, announced her pregnancy on her social media page.

Monica not only let followers in on her and Brown's happy news, but gave fans a glimpse of her growing bump in her Instagram shot, which she also posted on Twitter. The photo was accompanied by a message letting her followers in on her little secret.

"5 months & counting," the singer simply stated.

Brown also expressed his overwhelming excitement, sharing another snapshot of him and Monica attending an event. The photo clearly shows off the singer's bump. The basketball player added his thoughts on the impending arrival, writing, "Hallelujah!!! Thank God!!! Thank you Jesus!!! I'm so Blessed!!!" on Instagram and Twitter.

According to BET, this will be the couple's first child together, though Monica has two sons, Romelo and Rocko with ex-love, rapper Rocko. Brown also has one child, son Shannon Christopher, from a previous relationship.

Are you surprised by Monica and Brown's announcement?

T.I's on the market

Mon, 13 May 2013 20:30:05 +0000

âRapper T.I. seems to be on cloud nine - not only does he have a successful album out, but also a clothing line and a reality TV show that airs on VH1. It's all of these positive and money-making endeavors that has the MC thinking record labels should be bending over backwards to sign him. The Atlanta native recently ended his 10-year contract with Atlantic Records, and he's putting the word out there that he's ready to be picked up - for the right price. T.I. discussed what he's looking for in a record label with Billboard magazine. Even though he's good, some are speculating he might be setting the bar a bit too high, since he's asking for an eight-figure deal.

"They going to cut that check, man, and it's going to be eight figures. I ain't doing no deal if it ain't eight figures. I don't even wanna sit down with you. I don't wanna waste your time nor mine. I can do this [expletive] on my own. $5 million, $2 million, $4 million, $3 million - I can do that [expletive] on my own," T.I. told the publication. "I got that in the pipeline already. Don't even talk to me if it ain't eight figures. If y'all don't feel like I'm worth it, I'ma show you."

Despite his somewhat cocky attitude, the rapper also makes it known that he takes care of his protege's. During an interview with AllHipHop, T.I. opened up about his love for helping younger artists achieve their dreams, as long as they're willing to put in the work.

Do you think T.I. deserves an eight-figure contract, or do you think he's getting a bit greedy?

Diddy fights to end bullying

Thu, 09 May 2013 20:30:15 +0000

Bullying is one topic that has continued to evolve and progress for the worse in recent years, largely due to kids' ability to tease and harass other youngsters via the Internet. Recently rapper and mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs teamed up with the WWE to help take a stand against bullying. BET reports Diddy's Public Service Announcement first aired during the May 6 "Monday Night Raw" show.

Diddy spoke out against bullies of all kinds while wearing a shirt that read, "Invisible Bully," a famous line from Diddy's friend, the late Notorious B.I.G.

"Bullying takes on many shapes and forms. And in this digital age sometimes it just doesn't stop when the days end," Diddy said in his PSA message. "No matter the form or the location, it's gotta stop. If it's not you being bullied, help someone who is."

According to USA Today, Diddy will be speaking out against bullies as an ambassador for the Be a Star campaign created by the WWE and The Creative Coalition. The goal of the initiative is to reach out to kids and teach them that being a bully isn't cool and that learning how to be tolerant toward one another is.

Do you think bullying is an important problem for Diddy to get behind? Do you think he'll be able to make a difference?

Jay-Z has his sights set on Brazilian athlete

Thu, 09 May 2013 20:30:03 +0000

Just call him Jerry Maguire because Jay-Z is looking to show some athletes the money. Spanish newspaper Sport is reporting the rapper-turned-sports-agent has his sights set on signing Brazilian soccer star Neymar to his Roc Nation Sports agency. Neymar plays for Santos, and the 21-year-old athlete is certainly a hot commodity.

The young Santos star also boasts personality, a flair for fashion and good looks, making him a perfect fit for Jay and his latest endeavor. In fact, SportsPro Magazine named him as the world's most marketable athlete in 2010, with the editor claiming he's a triple threat.

"Neymar is very much the perfect storm: young, gifted and with an Olympics and a home World Cup on the horizon," editor David Cushnan said back in 2010. "He is already a superstar in Brazil, one of the world's most robust economies and a vast market to boot."

Sport newspaper is also reporting Jay has his sights set on signing a few other Brazilian-born athletes including PSG's Lucas Moura and Leandro Damiao who plays for Internacional.

Do you think the rumors are true? Do you think these players would consider signing to Jay's label?

Nike Air Max 360 Diamond Griffey kicks are back

Wed, 08 May 2013 20:30:03 +0000

Fans of famed baseball player Ken Griffey Jr. are most likely thrilled to learn that his popular Nike Air Max 360 Diamond Griffey kicks will soon be back on the shelves. In fact, the sneakers, which come in a variety of fresh colorways, are set to be re-released May 11. Sneaker News reports one of the most popular styles of the collection is the turquoise sneaker with pops of neon yellow, perfect for the bright colored craze that's still sweeping the nation.

Not only do the bold colors stand out on their own, but people walking by are also likely to stop and stare at who's wearing these kicks thanks to their unique patterns. The 360 Diamond Griff's, as they've come to be called by fans, boast what's meant to look like three blue waves on the sides, mixed in with neon green crisscross vertical stripes that seem to imitate lasers.

Aside from the colors, sneakerheads might also be psyched that the kicks are comfortable to wear. According to Kicks on Fire, the cross-training sneakers have a Dynamic Flywire upper for ultimate support.

Extra Butter NY adds that even though the latest sneakers to be brought back from the Griffey collection are a perfect addition to a collector's summer wardrobe, they aren't the only colorway of the shoe that's been released from the vault this year. In fact, the red and white version of the Air Max 360 Diamond Griffey's came out just a month earlier on April 16. This earlier version boasts an almost all-red look with just a few pops of white, mainly on the wave lines, the lace holes and wherever the famous Nike swoosh symbol shows up.

Fans excited about the release of the Nike Air Max 360 Diamond Griffey kicks in the neon and turquoise style can check out Jimmy Jazz locations or Jimmy Jazz's website to pick up a pair May 11.

Are you excited about the re-release of these sneakers?

Stars sign up for Hot 97's Summer Jam

Mon, 06 May 2013 20:30:04 +0000

New York's top spot for hip hop and R&B is of course Hot 97, and this year, like every year, the radio station is gearing up to host its most popular concert, Summer Jam. According to BET, this year's lineup is even more stacked than ever since the radio station is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Summer Jam.

This year fans heading to MetLife Stadium June 2 will be able to see a slew of world famous artists including Wu-Tang Clan, Miguel, Kendrick Lamar, Chris Brown, Wale, Fabolous, 2-Chainz, French Montana, A$AP Rocky, Joe Budden and a special appearance by "the biggest surprise guests in hip hop," Hot 97's official website reports.

Even though most people heading to the summer event will be going to see these big name acts, the radio station also tries to help those in attendance take in some fresh talent. Prior to the main acts hitting the stage, hip hop and R&B newcomers will entertain the crowds at the Hot 97 Summer Jam Festival Village, the news outlet reports.

Noted for being a great place to get one's name out, the festival will introduce the crowds to up-and-coming artists like Action Bronson, Smoke DZA, Vinny Cha$e, Bodega Bamz, Troy Ave and Kid Ink. Kendrick Lamar, who is one of the headliners of this year's Summer Jam concert performed at the festival a few years back. Other now-famous rappers like Pusha T have also been given a chance to shine during this event.

According to the Hot 97 website, the winner of this year's Who's Next Battle for the Best title, Radamiz will also hit the stage at the festival. The contest, run by Hot 97 and Power 106, looks for the best new MC's from both New York City and Los Angeles. This year's contestants battled it out during a concert in Austin, Texas, in March.

Are you going to Hot 97's Summer Jam? Are you interested in seeing the new acts performing at the festival?

Air Jordan Retro 5s are back

Fri, 03 May 2013 20:30:03 +0000

Time is likely standing still for sneakerheads around the nation who are anxiously awaiting the midnight release of the Air Jordan 5 Retro kicks. Not only are these sneakers going to be a perfect addition to any summer wardrobe, they also fit right in with the popular, old-school vibes of 2013.

According to Sneaker Files, the shoes, which boast a white, emerald, grape and ice blue colorway, are perhaps more in style now than they were during their original release. In fact, when the kicks were first created in 1990, they were anything but popular with consumers. The sneakers sat on the shelves for months and were then sold at a discounted price.

Times have certainly chanced, as now fans will be lining up at retail stores like Jimmy Jazz or checking out the Jimmy Jazz website to try and get their hands on these too-cool-for-their-time kicks. The sneakers, which cost $124.99 in 1990 and will go for around $160 in 2013, feature an all white-body with accent pops of purple, green and black, making them the perfect summer accessory.

Are you going to try and pick up a pair of these kicks at midnight?

Kelis is back to making music

Thu, 02 May 2013 20:30:04 +0000

Following success with "Milkshake" and a custody battle with ex-husband Nas, many fans might have thought singer Kelis was done for good. However, the crooner is once again back in the studio putting the finishing touches on her latest album, "FOOD."

It seems like Kelis is looking to continue with the culinary theme, as her first single, which recently dropped, is called "Jerk Ribs." According to Kelis' official Twitter, the singer hinted to fans that her lasted record is perfect for the laid back vibes of summer.

"I'm really excited, my album is done. It sounds like love and summer balled up into one!" she wrote to fans.

Kelis may be following the successful pattern of her hit "Milkshake," but she's branched out in terms of who she's working with and what label she's on. Billboard reports Kelis has been working on "FOOD" with Dave Sitek from the band TV on the Radio. Sitek also signed Kelis to his label, Federal Prism.

Are you excited to hear new music from Kelis? Do you think she'll gain as much popularity as she did with "Milkshake"?

Kelly Rowland heading on tour with The Dream

Wed, 01 May 2013 20:30:04 +0000

Kelly Rowland has been in the spotlight as of late to promote her new album and other endeavors. "Talk a Good Game" is set to drop June 18, while she already has a watch line out with TW Steel. It seems her first passion, making music, will soon be her main focus. She recently announced she'll be heading on tour this year with R&B crooner The Dream, whose next album,"IV Play," is set to hit stores May 28.

According to BET, the Lights Out tour will be making 10 stops around the nation. The R&B duo will embark on their musical journey in Kansas City, Mo., and will continue to Maryland, Massachusetts, New York City, Mississippi, Louisiana, Ohio and Illinois.

The pairing seems like a match made in heaven, not only because both artists have new music coming out in early summer, but they've also worked together in the studio. Global Grind reports Rowland is actually featured on a track on Dream's late May album.

Are you excited about this tour? Are you looking forward to hearing both artists' new albums?

Gabby Douglas: No more drama

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:30:06 +0000

U.S. gold medal gymnast Gabby Douglas should have been on cloud nine after her impressive win at the 2012 Summer Olympics, but her golden moment was overshadowed by controversy. The young gymnast was hit with critique over the way her hair looked while she was competing.

Douglas' mom, Natalie Hawkins, openly slammed the criticism in an interview with Fashionista website shortly after the controversy in late summer 2012, telling readers that haters had no right to come at Douglas for such a mundane thing.

"How ignorant is it of people to comment on her hair and she still has more competitions to go," Hawkins told the news outlet. "Are you TRYING to ruin her self confidence? She has to go out there and feel good about herself, and if she feels good about herself on that floor, who are YOU to criticize her?"

Despite Hawkins coming to her daughter's aid, Douglas has stayed quiet about the issue until now. The gold medalist recently opened up to Huffington Post Live about the incident. Douglas shared that she decided not to focus on the controversy because it would have ruined her huge accomplishment. Instead, she opted to enjoy the fact that she not only won the all-around gold medal, but also that she was the first African American woman to do so in the category.

Were you surprised people attacked Douglas for her hair? Do you think she handled it correctly?

Snoop: The next sports agent?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:30:05 +0000

Jay-Z makes everything he does look so easy that other rappers are beginning to think anything Jay can do, they can do better. Case in point: Snoop Lion, aka Snoop Dogg, recently announced he has interest in becoming a sports agent.

Snoop opened up about his future endeavors while discussing sports and his latest album, "Reincarnated," with The Boom Box. When asked how he felt about Jay opening up Roc Nation Sports, Snoop had nothing but love for his fellow MC, adding it makes sense to him that people from the music industry would mix well with the sports avenue.

"We're influential to athletes and we're very business-minded and savvy so what better way to do than our way?" Snoop told the publication.

According to BET, Snoop might not have had a stake in any professional sports team like Jay, but he does have plenty of experience coaching. The rapper and father of three launched the Snoop Youth Football League in 2005 in California and has since branched out to many other inner cities around the nation. The goal of the outlet is to use sports to "teach discipline, self-respect and the value of teamwork ..." according to the league's official website.

Do you think Snoop would be a good agent or do you think he should stick to coaching and making music?

Nike lets fans mix and match colors with new program

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:30:18 +0000

Nike continues to stay ahead of the pack - both in terms of sneaker style and keeping up with technology. The popular shoe and athletic clothing brand is at it again with its latest social media website, Nike PHOTOiD. According to Freshness magazine, the site is a unique service that "allows users to tap on pictures from their personal Instagram accounts and then apply their favorite colors in the snapshot to a pair of Nike Air Max sneakers using the color palette option offered via the site.

Sneakers available to personalize include the Nike Air Max I iD, Nike Air Max 90 iD and the Nike Air Max 95 iD. Don't have a smartphone? No worries. The fun program can be used with tablets or on computers. Plus, fans of the idea, but not necessarily the price tag that creating their own shoes comes with, can still have fun making the sneakers based off of their favorite sunset picture and then they can post the shoes to their social media outlets to show off their unique kicks.

Gizmodo reports playing around with the different colorways is half the fun. Fans of the application have already embraced the idea - creating sneakers out of the colors of everything from their fast food meal and their salad to a sunny day by the pool and a funny Halloween costume.

If you do decide to purchase the kicks you create, be prepared to pay a pretty penny. According to the news source, the Nike Air Max I iD and the Nike Air Max 90 iD run for $135, while the more advanced Nike Air Max 95 iD will run you upwards of $220.

Do you like the unique idea behind Nike PHOTOiD? Are you going to play around with the Instagram-based website?

Rihanna breaks record

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:30:14 +0000

Pop and R&B singer Rihanna is just as well known for her racy ensembles as her catchy tunes. However, it is the latter that recently made news. According to Billboard, the Barbadian beauty beat out former best friend Katy Perry for having the most No. 1 singles.

Ri was previously tied with Perry, with both women earning nine No. 1 hits, though Rihanna passed Perry with her latest track, "Stay," featuring Mikky Ekko. Taking a look back, Ri reached the charts the first time in 2006 for her single, "SOS," followed by "Take a Bow," "Disturbia" and "Live Your Life" (T.I. featuring Rihanna) all in 2008. From there, the crooner earned more praise for "Rude Boy," "Love the Way You Lie" (Eminem featuring Rihanna) and "Only Girl (In the World)," which all reached the top of the charts in 2010. Rihanna secured the No. 1 spot twice in 2011 with "S&M" and "We Found Love," and earned the double digit triumph in 2013 with her current jam.

According to Entertainmentwise, Rihanna has been breaking all sorts of records as of late. Aside from the coveted title of most No. 1 songs, she's also secured herself as having the most entries in the chart with 35 songs and the most top 10 songs with 23. The princess of pop and R&B took to her Instagram account to share her excitement with her fans and loved ones.

Rihanna posted one picture of a list of all of her No. 1 songs with the caption, "I owe this to my fans and to Billboard! Thank you for the love! It's pretty major!"

Are you surprised Rihanna has the most No.1 hits? Are you a fan of her music?

Khloe Kardashian is no longer a 'factor'

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:30:10 +0000

Khloe Kardashian branched out on her own when she got a gig hosting "The X Factor," but it seems the job was short lived. MTV News reports Kardashian will not be back for the upcoming season of the show, but didn't reveal if the parting was mutual or if the reality TV star got the boot.

"We really enjoyed working with her and wish her all the best in her future endeavors," the producers said in a statement.

Kardashian, for her part, has taken the high road in the matter. The TV starlet openly thanked the show and specifically Simon Cowell for the opportunity to be part of the hit series.

"For me, when I was asked if I wanted to do this, I was so blown away. And the fact that Simon has given me the opportunity - I've never hosted a thing in my life," Kardashian said in a statement. "To do something on this magnitude, I'm so honored and blessed and I just love that I've been able to grow through this whole experience ..."

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, various reports claim Kardashian was awkward on set and was a "huge diva."

Did you like Kardashian as a host? Who do you think will replace her?

Wiz Khalifa, A$AP Rocky are under the influence

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:30:04 +0000

Fans of up and coming rappers Wiz Khalifa and A$AP Rocky are sure to be delighted to learn the hip hop stars are heading on tour together. The Under the Influence tour is set to begin July 7 in San Francisco, and wraps up in Cincinnati Aug. 11, BET reports.

The two MCs recently sat down to discuss their friendship and work relationship in the pages of Spin magazine. According to the publication, Khalifa and Rocky first linked up at the SXSW music festival in 2012. Since then, the pair have been in constant contact and finally decided to make their friendship official with a tour.

Khalifa shared the idea just seemed natural given their similarities.

"They're [the fans] really supportive, really on the tip where they want to have fun, enjoy life, be together. And we're fans of each other, so our fans are fans of the same music. We do the same [expletive] but we speak a different language," the rapper said in the latest edition of the magazine.

Rocky added he's got nothing but respect for Khalifa, who made a name for himself on his own, adding he's excited to tour with a friend.

The Under the Influence tour will stop in various cities around the nation including Denver, Dallas, Boston, Chicago and Detroit.

Are you interested in seeing Khalifa and Rocky on tour?

Jay-Z no longer part-owner of the Nets

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:30:05 +0000

Rapper and mogul Jay-Z helped bring the New Jersey Nets to Brooklyn and also transformed the team's overall look, fan base and more. Now it seems the legacy Jay worked so hard to help create is out of his hands. The hip hop legend took to his website, Life & Times, to announce his departure from the team and to explain to fans and the organization how much the Nets still mean to him.

"Being a member of the Nets organization surpassed some of my greatest ambitions," Jay wrote on the website. "It was never about an investment; it was about the NETS and Brooklyn. My job as an owner is over, but as a fan it has just begun. I'm a Brooklyn Net forever... A thank you and deepest appreciation goes to the fans. You are the lifeblood of any team."

Jay owned just 1/15th of the team, but it was his constant support that captivated the players and the fans alike. The rapper ultimately had to let his ownership rights go to help his latest endeavor, acting as a sports agent. According to Bleacher Report, Jay recently announced he launched the Roc Nations Sports agency with CAA, already signing big name Yankees' star, Robinson Cano. Free from his ownership ties to the Nets, Jay can now freely sign basketball players to his agency.

Despite the $350,000 pay loss, Jay and wife Beyonce will likely bounce back. The power couple recently made the cut as the first musical couple to reach a billion dollar net worth, according to Celebuzz. Jay graced the cover of the publication's annual 100 Most Influential People in the World issue.

Do you think Jay will continue to support the Nets? Are you sad about his decision to leave the team?

Kelly Rowland: New face of 'X-Factor'?

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 20:30:06 +0000

It's no secret that singer Kelly Rowland is talented - she's made a name for herself both in the girl power group Destiny's Child and as a solo artist. Now, it seems she may be looking to put her vast music knowledge to good use.

A source recently divulged to the Daily Mail that Simon Cowell, who stars on the American version of "X-Factor," is looking to cast Rowland as a judge on the show to replace Britney Spears. If the rumor is true, Rowland should have no trouble falling into place - she acted as a judge on the U.K. version of the show before being replaced by former Pussy Cat Dolls crooner Nicole Scherzinger.

Rowland, who judged on the show in 2011, left on mixed terms. According to the news outlet, Rowland got sick during the series and flew home to the States for treatment - something the bigwigs at the television station were less than impressed with. Despite the controversy, Rowland sent fans a heartfelt message prior to her departure.

"I love the U.K. and being part of the show last year. Mentoring the girls was such an incredible experience I will never forget," Rowland told fans in a statement. "I would like to thank Simon for the great opportunity and asking me to be a judge last season."

It seems throwing Cowell's name in the apology could have helped her land a second chance at the show in America. Even though Rowland could by vying for Spears' position, word on who will replace fellow judge L.A. Reid in still undetermined. Maybe Paula Abdul is available?

Rowland has stayed mum on the subject of the show, but has opened up about her latest album. Entertainment Weekly reports the singer's, "Talk A Good Game," is set to drop June 4. She added she's enlisted the help of former bandmates Beyonce Knowles and Michelle Williams to lend their voices on a few tracks.

Do you think Rowland will head back to "X-Factor"?

Magic Johnson's son looks to inspire others

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 20:30:04 +0000

Growing up as Magic Johnson's son is likely tough enough, though realizing and having the courage to come out as a gay man might be even harder. However, this hasn't been the case for Magic's son, Earvin "EJ" Johnson III. EJ came out at the age of 13 and only recently opened up about his sexuality in the public eye.

News of EJ's sexual orientation came out earlier this month, when the son of the basketball great was photographed holding hands with his boyfriend in Hollywood. Since then, Magic has made it a point to publicly support his son, while also encouraging him to stay true to who he is in order to inspire other kids and young adults looking to come out, BET reports.

Though Magic has spoken out for his son, EJ has kept relatively quiet on the matter until now. The 20-year-old recently discussed coming out in the public eye during an interview with Howard Bragman on GwistTV.

According to EJ, he had always planned on "coming out in the spotlight," but never expected it would be in the manner it occurred. He also denied the rumor that the man he was holding hands with was his boyfriend, telling Bragman the man is just a friend with whom he likes to hold hands.

On the same note, EJ hopes all the media attention he's been gaining will lead way to an appearance on a talk show or radio show to help encourage other young adults to be open about who they really are.

"[I want to be] the voice for young gay people who need someone to be on TV or wherever else to talk to them and talk about all kinds of issues that all of us face," EJ told the news outlet. "[I want to talk about] not just homosexual issues but all kinds of issues. I definitely want to set a really good example."

Do you think EJ is setting a good example? Do you think it's right that the media forced him into the spotlight before he was ready?