Yard$ is BlackcardART

Video Credit & Directed by: BAMLIV

Yard$ is the definition of "Artrepreneur". Scrolling through the popular page on Instagram, I started following Yard$ back in February of 2015 and his work caught not only my eye, but the passion and story he was sharing with the world through art aroused me.

Artwork by: Yard$

I had a chance to communicate with Yard$ and asked what inspires your work? He replied, "My generation and my past". He started painting since 2000 from shirts then transitioned to canvas in 2014. "My lifestyle inspired me to paint my everyday life and I call it my TRUTH! I started sharing my god given talent to the world through social media and the response was amazing. It was different, risky but that's what art is about, being RAW & TRUTHFUL, not forcing it".

Photo Credit: Yard$
Lucky for us this Las Vegas native is a true inspiration to all, and I'm excited to see just how much more Yard$ has to share with the world. He is proof that you can be and do anything you want as long as you keep pushin, keep grindin, and keep hustlin towards your dreams. Whether if it's through a paint brush, music, or fashion, it doesn't matter, everything links to ART! Just be you and speak your TRUTH!

For more information on BLACKCARDART and ART TOUR DATES click the links below:

Website: http://www.blackcardart.com/

Instgram: https://www.instagram.com/blackcardart_/

NEW MIXTAPE ALERT!!!! NOV 23rd

Photo Credit: Kid Red "Road Rage Mixtape

As announced earlier this month by the homie Kid Red, he will drop a new mixtape today Nov. 23rd titled "Road Rage".

Kid Red born Mario Johnson is no stranger to the bay, and that would be the Fillmore to be exact. He has always shown us his rhymes and love for music is endless. 

Kid Red has worked with many artists in the industry from friend Chris Brown, to Migos, French Montana, Soulja Boy, Mozzy and plenty more artists.

His anticipated new mixtape has me anxious to hear the trap rhymes he has in store for his fans and to keep feeding us that raunchy truth in every bar he spits. Click the links below to connect with Kid Red, he's having a video shoot tomorrow in the bay and he's looking for some bay ladies. DM Kid Red for more information.

Kid Red Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidred/

Lyfestyle Ink!

Photo Credit: Daniel (Tatt2Overdose) Hernandez 

You're probably thinking, "Here is another blog about a Tattoo shop". Nope! I'm here to tell you this is not just another shop, this is "Lyfestyle Ink". Artist, Owner, and CEO Daniel Hernandez has made a name not only himself as an artist, but his dream. I've known Daniel for over 5 years now and his only vision/baby has been "Lyfestyle Ink".

Established in September 2012 in San Mateo California, Lyfestyle Ink quickly grew a name for itself, but not only in San Mateo but all over the bay area. As Lyfestyle Ink grew, the shop also complimented upcoming young businesses and entrepreneurs from all over.

Lyfestyle Ink has a relaxed and vintage atmosphere. From the blacked out chandelier hanging from the ceiling when you first walk in, to the jacquard designed walls, the beautiful art work that catches your eye, to the clean, comfortable stations ready to take on new and prior customers. 

Daniel has established Lyfestyle Ink not from celebrities, special guests or appearances. His customer based was all through word of mouth, continued support from customers, and as social media elevated over the years so did his customers. Lyfestyle Ink has a 4.8/5 rating on Yelp!, #1 on the Google search top list for SEO, and the body artwork is uncanny. 

To sum it all up! Lyfestyle Ink will surely be around for years and years to come, I can't wait to see how many more artists and apprentices grow with Lyfestyle Ink. 

So, whether you have tattoos, or looking to get your first tattoo, you would be doing your body great justice in going to the right place. Always remember, you're not just getting a "Tattoo" it's a "Lyfestyle".

For more information, more pictures, and other artists in Lyfestyle Ink,     click the links below.

Address: 1923 S. El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94403

Phone: 650-235-9239

Website: http://www.lyfestyleink.net/

Lyfestyle Ink Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyfestyleink/

Tatt2Overdose Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatt2overdose/

Prince Honored at AMA 2016

Photo Credit: Kristinna M. Brooks

I don't remember but my mom always tells me this story, at the age no less 3 I was in a walker in Germany were I was born, she played a movie called "Purple Rain", now back then I had no clue what affect it would have on me now, but I was mesmerized by the man they called "Prince". Drawn to the fact that he was a great musician, singer, composer, producer, and all around amazing icon, I could never get enough as I got older.

It's been over 7 months since the icon has passed and last night the American Music Awards paid a great tribute and honoring him with the Top Soundtrack Award for "Purple Rain" that was released back in 1984 which was accepted by his sister Tyka Nelson.

What some people don't know is Prince defied all odds. A black teen from Minneapolis he wanted to shock the world. He had a vision, and God-given talent, he is still one of the world's most respected and loved artists. Prince, if you didn't know has 984 titles to credit and counting, with over 20 albums under his belt and endless music and unreleased tracks. He has collaborated with many artists all over and last night his sister Tyka quoted, "In the words of Prince, with love, honor, and respect for every living thing in the universe, separation ceases and we all become one being, singing one song."

Monday Motivation Now!

Good Morning and Happy Monday! You're probably just hitting your snooze button for the 3rd time, and wondering why is it Monday again, well because it is and I'm here to say "This to shall pass". Everyone I know, or run into has the most negative attitude about "Monday" no one ever seems to like or look forward to Mondays.

Well today's a new day and I'm here to give you my guide to looking forward to these beautiful Monday's that feel like Friday's.

1. Make sure you're well rested the night before. Try to have some quiet time to yourself. Meditate, or take a hot shower/bath. For me I watch the news and love to catch some Sportscenter before bed.

2. There is always traffic on Mondays, and with traffic comes angry people in a rush which is a bad combination. Set your alarm 15-20 minutes earlier than you usually do. If you follow step 1 you should be well rested and have no issue with doing this.

3. Coffee, Tea, or water. Whatever your preference is in the morning, have yourself a cup or two before or while you drive or commute. You want to arrive to your destination in one piece, so don't rush!

4. While on your way, Greet people! Yes everyone is in a hurry or a rush, but it takes less than 10 seconds to smile and wish someone a good day! Good be life changing for just one person.

5. Now that you're at work, understand you have the rest of the week. Mondays will always set the tone for how the rest of your week will go.

There you have it. My simple 5 steps. Remember, thinking negatively starting your day will usually be the outcome of how your day or week will end. Waking up everyday is a blessing, some more than others. Be thankful!

AMA Stylist King

 "The King of Style"

 Yes that is he. Celebrity Stylist & Television Fashion Star EJ has been in this Hollywood business since forever. From Chris Brown to Kelly Rowland to Nelly, Ashanti and many more he has proved that his talent  and keen sense for fashion is beyond sky the limit. You can catch EJ on  BET's show "About the Business" every Wednesday at 10 pm. In his most recent appearance he styled the beautiful and talented Teyana Taylor tonight at the AMA's which is on ABC tonight at 8 pm.

Instagram: ejking21

https://www.instagram.com/ejking21/

Black Friday Vs.Cyber Monday Deals

It's that time of the year again!!! The holidays is here and we all try to get those good deals that all the stores or online sites are having. We all struggle whether or not to actually go in store to shop, or just wait for Monday to shop online. based on my experience here is my pros and cons below:

Black Friday:
Pros-

• Shopping with a friends/Group
• Prices could be better
• Physically handling what you are buying
• Might miss a good deal only offered if you go

Cons-

• Parking
• Huge Crowds
• Long Lines
• Price markdowns after Black Friday
• Missed time with family (unless they go with)

Cyber Monday:

Pros-

• Accessible by computer/mobile
• Shop in your PJ's
• For stay at home mom's don't need a babysitter
• Deals are usually better (Competing with stores for higher close out numbers)
• Easily compare prices online 

Cons-

• Possible delayed shipping
• Possible damage
• Possible online fraud
• Won't be able to see merchandise til it arrives
• May have return issues

There you have it. Overall I do a little bit of both but mainly online shopping is my preferred choice. Happy shopping!!!

Winter & Rain (Bay Area Life)

Living in the Bay Area you know you should always always keep a spare coat, hoodie, or jacket handy. It seems that winter is here, and although the weather goes through it's bi-polar phases, it's the BAY AREA the weather is always changing.

This years FALL fashion has drastically changed. I have seen women and men despite being freezing outside everyone will still wear shorts and flip flops, weird? NO this is a norm in Cali.

I for one, especially those who know me, know that I have to be bundled up but I refuse to wear a jacket. If I'm going somewhere fancy as shown in this picture to your left I have to keep it classy. I didn't get a chance to do a FULL body shot but I have a black long sleeve maxi dress with a fur short sleeve vest with black Christian ankle booties. Although it was cold, I still made sure what I wore over it wasn't "jacket" like. Anyone have any tips, ideas, for the cold night CITY visits. Comment below.

25 Years!?!?

TUPAC AMARU SHAKUR AKA 2PAC (MAKAVELI)

This month marks 25 years ago when he released his "2PacalypseNow" album. He is also being nominated to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for 2017 he won't win if you don't VOTE! Please follow the link below to place your vote.
rockhall.com/vote

Pound for Pound Andre Ward

Photo Credit: Getty

Last night Andre Ward beat Sergey Kovalev. Although it was by unanimous decision people all over are arguing that Sergey was robbed. It was a pretty close fight but seeing the fight for myself, and yet although Ward was knocked down to his knees in the second round, it's not about getting knocked down, it's about getting up and getting back on your feet.

Wards movement improved and got better by the fifth round. As a boxer or in any sport you know it takes time to get a feel for how someone plays or fights, you won't know until you actually set foot one on one with your opponent.

I for one think Ward did a great job, he got in there, held his own and won with the decision at 114-113. Either way everyone will have their opinion on how the fight went and that's OK, because everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Congrats Andre!

Need A Lyft?

Everyone knows who this beautiful Philly Rosebud is, right? Yes Ms. Amberrose. This beautiful model, actress, talk show host, female advocate, entrepreneur and all around sweet MUVA has linked up with "LYFT" and has a great code for you all. Grab your $50 in FREE Lyft ride credit so you can get to any party or get home safely. Download the Lyft app anytime and use the code "AMBER". Tag a friend, family member, anyone you feel will need this code.

What Moves you?

Everyday we wake up is a blessing. Do you actually know what yoTrue enough you will have obstacles that approach on a day to day basis, but it's how you handle it when these road blocks arise. Face your fears, welcome those obstacles with open arms, but DO NOT quit. We have to live in the present. Not the past, not the future but the Present, today, at this very moment!

Inspire others to be great, inspire others to do better, to think better, to feel better. Someone told me last year, "What ever you put into the universe, will come back to you 10 X's." It's up to you to decide if what you're giving off is GOOD energy, or is it BAD energy?

The world is already full of so much negative, and hate. We need to inspire, and motivate each others as we would our kids, our families, our loved ones. That is what will make us all LEADERS!

Networking made easy

Let's face it even with today's technology alot of us aren't High Tech Savvy. But if you do not know about LinkedIn well you definitely have to read this article.

https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/285370

Kristinna Maria Brooks is "KMB".
 An army brat for sure, and always moving from different cities since I could remember I would always talk or have an opinion on everything, so my mom tells me. Fast forwarding over the years my passion for music, fashion, people, and the entertainment business pulled me in. No this is not a GOSSIP blog, this is a TRUTH blog. Hearing my truth, hearing those I'm around or associated with speak their truth.

Love, Fashion, Health, Music, Sex, and Truth is what I'm about. I want to share it with the world, and I want you to share your stories as well to inspire others. #KMBBlogMe

E.L.H.A.E (Every Life Has An Ending)

I believe we all have many talents, some more than others. What I mean by that some of us are good at different things than others. For example, some people were meant to do music, some people were meant to be the lead singer, play the instruments, producer, or just dance to the music. 

Well may I please point out that this gentleman from Atlanta has the Feel Good Music we have all been waiting for. With his soothing but raspy riffs make you feel what he is singing. Click the link and hear for yourself, I'm exciting for what's to come. Thank me later.
 He is on my top week list of NEXT UP!!!

https://www.youtube.com/user/ElhaeMusic