Weekend Jam - John Forte/Kanye West "Homecoming"

Here at Kirin we absolutely LOVE music. It's one of our many passions and a driving force behind what we do. That being said, a new feature to our blog will be the "Weekend Jam". This post will showcase a song (old or new) that we are feeling right now. First up, one of our favorite old artist teaming up with a current favorite. Fugees affiliate John Forte has been free for a while now and recording some pretty dope music. He recently did an acoustic set on the Soho House rooftop with impromptu guest Kanye West. Watch and enjoy as these two talented artist perform Ye's hit "Homecoming".

-D. Griff

Good Ass Day

Unless you have been under a rock the past few days you have heard the exciting news about the Good Music Fam. Rumor has it that on September 14th, 2010, Kanye will drop his highly anticipated 5th studio album Good Ass Job, Kid Cudi will release his sophomore effort Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager, and rookie Big Sean will release his debut record Finally Famous. The news hit the Good Music Blog right around the time Yezzy took the stage at the BET Awards to perform his alleged first single from Good Ass Job, "Power".

Now surely I am not the first to question this marketing strategy. Wont this hurt the sales of all three albums? Mainly newcomer Big Sean who has yet to prove himself in regards to moving units? It's an interesting move that will raise quite a few eyebrows. Either way its very exciting news! Most notably for the fact that this may prove that Yezzy will stick with the album title we all know and love (there were rumors that it would be changed). Furthermore, there is a release date for three sure to be dope albums! Good music has arrived!!!

-D. Griff

via: Good Music Blog

The Looks: Pharrell Williams

Most stylish people look to a few exceptional individuals for inspiration. When one is creating a "look" inspiration is quite possibly the most important factor. One of my personal style icon's is Pharrell Williams of the Neptunes. Williams has an extremely diverse sense of style and that's probably what I respect most. Furthermore, he isn't scared to take a risk with his fashion choices.

Whether he is draped in BAPE, laced in BBC, or hanging in Paris rockin Louis Vuitton, Williams is always classic. What I am mean by that is he owns whatever it is he wears. His personal touch brings something special to the outfit that no one else can. That great sense of style enabled Williams to create his own line, Billionaire Boys Club several years ago. As of today BBC remains a staple in the streetwear industry in the US and Japan.

We all know Skateboard P for his music. He has sold well over 75 million records and it seems to be a direct correlation with his fashion sense. Make an incredibly innovative product and the world will appreciate it and its creator for being something that we have never encountered before. Pharrell Williams is not only a music & fashion icon, but a cultural icon. May his style inspire yours.

-D. Griff

Pharell Speech at Midem 2010

Pharrell Keynote at MIDEM 2010 from thecashmerethinker on Vimeo.

World famous uber-producer/designer/businessman/trendsetter Pharrell Williams did the keynote speech at MIDEM Music conference in Cannes, France on Saturday. He spoke with Cornerstone (co)CEO and Fader Magazine (co)founder Rob Stone. He covered topics ranging from how artists can better engage their fans, how important it is to have a GOOD supportive team behind you, and how important it is to leave your neighborhood and see the world.
I had it playing on my tv while i edited photos from our Spring/Summer 2010 shoot and let me say it is hella inspirational to hear him speak on so many topics that people in the creative industry frequently discuss. I'll probably have it playing in the background while doing my "homework" a couple more times just to reinforce some of the things he said. A good vid.
-Steven

Choice Quote:
"If you have a great idea...you should go for it...dont wait until your 40,50 years old to get involved and get in the trenches. You gotta do it now"
other links:
www.ARTST.com
http://bbcicecream.com/blog/