This month is all about personal independence and the pursuit of happiness; so we’re bringing you some of our favorite sights, sounds and things to do that we find well – revolutionary!
watch
- A few weeks ago we learned about a really neat music documentary called 20 Feet from Stardom, which takes a revealing yet entertaining look at background singers and their relationships with some of music’s most iconic bands. These immensely talented singers rarely get the credit they deserve – something the stirring documentary aims to correct. It moves defining voices from background to front and center like power houses, Claudia Lennear, Gloria Jones and Merry Clayton who’s best known for her hair-raising yelp – “Rape! Murder!” – in the Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter.” Definitely a must-watch. You can pre-order the film now on iTunes or find a local screening. Watch the trailer here.
- Earlier this month, BET premiered the highly-anticipated (and promoted) original movie, Being Mary Jane, which stars actress Gabrielle Union as Mary Jane Paul – a successful TV news anchor navigating through family, work and love-life drama. The movie was created by the producers of the award-winning BET comedy, The Game, and will eventually be picked up as a series on the network. (Seems like we’re getting another Olivia Pope-type character to keep up with.) We’re excited to see how we’ll it does. It’s a welcomed change to BET’s current line up. If you missed the premiere, no worries. BET will be airing the film again. Follow @beingmaryjane on Twitter for updates.
read
- We’ve been inspired this month by clinical psychologist and author Meg Jay, who, in her Ted talk, urges twenty-somethings to make the most of their twenties now. Her book, The Defining Decade goes into more detail, “provides the tools necessary to make the most of your twenties, and shows us how work, relationships, personality, social networks, identity, and even the brain can change more during this decade than at any other time in adulthood-if we use the time wisely.” Get the book on Amazon.
listen
- The ever-polarizing musical genius that is Kanye West has done it again with his latest solo studio effort, Yeezus. When Kanye makes a statement, he really makes a statement and we must say; this album is one of our faves (up there with The College Dropout and Graduation). For the most part the album is dark, angry and defiant, yet edgy. Although, some say it’s not Kanye’s best work, they are just as many out there that see it as a project in a lane all on its own. Our favorite tracks include: Black Skinhead, New Slaves, I Am a God, Blood on The Leaves and lastly Bound 2, which is classic Kanye at his best. The album is available on iTunes.
- If a dose of Kanye isn’t enough, throw in a side of “lyrical genius,” Jay Z. Magna Carta Holy Grail (MGHC) made a big splash earlier this year with it’s Samsung partnership. A teaser campaign heightened anticipation for the album and its early release to one million Samsung users who downloaded a special mobile phone application forced the industry to set new rules. MGHC is available on iTunes.
do
- Visit Martha’s Vineyard! July is considered the Saturday of summer, so take advantage of the long summer days and snag a long weekend (or two) to explore every nook and cranny of this amazing island thats sits off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. While The Hamptons is considered the playground for the rich and famous, Martha’s Vineyard is a little more down to earth, with its quaint New England charm and über friendly people. The best way to get around the island once disembarked from the ferry is by bicycle, on foot or bus. We recommend a quaint bed and breakfast vs a traditional hotel. In sum, the food is delicious, beaches are breathtaking and the overall small town feel just feels like home away from home. Visit www.MVOL.com for more info.
