Fresh Friday...Shoe Time.

For Her - Its All About The Boots

Admit Boot - Carlos by Carlos Santana (Black and Brown)

138.95

On SALE - $118.95

As fall approaches, I've kept my eye out for interesting finds in the shoe department.  Ok, I ALWAYS keep my eyes open in the shoe department regardless of season, however, I've noticed a return to buckles and boots.  I'm definitely into the ankle boot craze (recently bought a pair with a bow. Don't judge me.), and I wanted to share the pair above with the ladies who have a passion for fashion but, not a penchent for paying one months rent.  I found these Carlos by Carlos Santana booties on www.Zappos.com and I fell in shoe love.  The edgy buckle and crosshatch detail make these an easy way to spice up a simple outfit.  Pairing these boots with ripped skinnies, a tank and a scarf (and maybe a little red lip for extra oomph) would make for a quick, budget-friendly look.

For Him - Wood Shock

How much wood could a Wood-Shock chuck if a Wood-Shock could chuck wood? Ok. Sorry. :) I saw this watch and thought it couldn't actually be made out of wood...a G-Shock? I was wrong.  The W-Shock features hand-and laser-crafted wooden bodies with original straps and dials from the Casio G-Shock.  Even though it's a bit spendy (the pictured watches will run you between $250 and $285 US) it's definitely a fresh take on a classic.  If you are watch fien, this is a piece worth copping.  Check the images below for more views and visit www.w-shock.com to purchase.

Happy Shopping!

Peace. Love. Fresh.

XoXo

Chan.Lo.

Strictly Truth ... Oh You Fancy Huh? Pt. II.

*Chan.Lo. Note: 'Oh You Fancy Huh?' created such an interesting discussion that I thought it best to ask our own Kenny Masenda to give a male POV on the topic. Be enlightened.

 

P.S. If you've yet to read Elena P.'s original article, click HERE

 

Peace. Love. Truth.

 

XoXo

 

Chan.Lo.

 

Recently, I read Elena’s piece “Oh, You Fancy, Huh?” and was given the task of coming up with a response to her words. Honestly, I’ve read her post countless times, all with the intention of coming up with the most carefully-crafted response to her question that was initially posed to the masses, which was:

So, why is it that these powerful men still settle for the video vixens, strippers and DE-pendant women in their industry and throughout? What makes our ambition any less desirable in real life, as opposed to when it is embedded in the hook of a chart-topping single?

At one time, in times when I honestly thought I knew more than what I actually did, a response could have been crafted that could spark a firestorm, an uprising, or anything else that would have constituted excitement, enthusiasm, or maybe even just messy. These days, life has slowed things down for me, and with that, when I read this question, the same answer came back to me over and over again: these “powerful” men in question are more than willing to look for convenience rather than the women they praise in song and verse. Allow me to elaborate.

While I do this, keep in mind this is merely my opinion, and one that certainly will not resonate within all men, or even a majority of men. These “powerful” men realize what it takes to have a woman who they hold in high esteem, and while I don’t question the sincerity in their words, it does serve as a head-scratcher when certain women see these same men with women who are the opposite of what they sing, rap, and harmonize about. At the same time, this is something that any independent woman, in my opinion, really shouldn’t worry about too much. Your ambition is just as desirable in real life as in song, and, if anything, “powerful” men know they can’t just walk up on you, flash some money, their car, or any other tangible object, and expect you to bite.

They know in order to get you, they have to come with their A-game. They have to be attentive, show interest, be creative, be consistent, and work. When you see a “powerful” man out and about with a woman who is the opposite, it’s usually at some social event (awards shows, sports events, etc), and they would rather be seen with a female they don’t have to work hard to get, but looks the part, as opposed to the female they have to work their butt off for, but STILL looks the part. It’s not a knock on independent women at all, and, if anything, it saves you plenty of heartache, headache, angry Facebook messages, scorned tweets, rants, and anything else that’s counter-productive to your well-being.

There may be a fear from women who “have their own” being the same ones “who sleep alone,” but they are also the same ones who are held, at least in my eyes and others who feel similar, as the epitome of a woman, a queen, and someone who is more than ideal for a man to settle down with, once a man decides to settle down for good. That’s why as long as a woman continues to handle her business, she shouldn’t be concerned about what any man has to say about her, or when “powerful” men are choosing M&Ms over an Everlasting Gobstopper. When you see these cats out on the red carpet with a female who chose a different grind to the top, smile at them, and continue to do you, and realize that your path is a path that’s unique, and void of any man’s assistance except God’s.

-K. Masenda

Follow Kenny on Twitter @SoulOnIce6



Press Play ... Let It Ride.

Ms. E. is back with more dope for your ears. A great friend of mine is helping me bring the music to you in a better way, Chan-Lo.com will be packed full of goodies. However, for now peep the playlist, download the tracks, and transport to a happy place.

Keep Groovin'.

Peace. Love. Music.

XoXo

Chan.Lo.

1) "The Trip" and "The Extra Trip" - Wale

For an artist of his caliber, Wale is incredibly underrated. Both songs (which come on the hinge of his latest mixtape, More About Nothing) are so lyrically intrinsic that I had to listen close just to understand. Wonderful music.

2) "Devil In A New Dress" - Kanye West

Kanye crazy beat. Check. Yeezy spittin fire. Check. Dope is what they call this. Peep game.

3) "The Usual" - Trey Songz feat. Drake

The terrible twosome is back at it again on this, yet another leak, from Songz's upcoming album due to be released September 14th. The duo combine for a playful piece in which Songz addresses the public opinion regarding his sexually provocative lyrics. His reponse is laced with classic Trey-isms. As far as I'm concerned, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

4) "Villematic" - J. Cole

I introduced Mr. Cole previously and my opinion has yet to waiver. This track is on heavy rotation and his words commandeer the beat. Very hard to accomplish. Done well by this young man.

5) "Only Girl (In the World)" - Rihanna

The first single off of RiRi's upcoming followup to Rated R, entitled Lost. This track is reminiscent of her previous hit, "Please Don't Stop The Music", in the fact that it exudes more of a techno/Euro dance vibe. Get your glow sticks ready. Aside from the track itself, Rihanna seems to be broadening her vocal range with this release. Certainly a different sound. Check it out.

6) "All I Want Is You (Remix)" - Miguel feat. Rick Ross and J. Cole

This record happens to be one of my favorites at the moment. Ricky Rozay give the track a bit more edge yet, the overall value remains the same. Check out both the original as well as the revamped remix and choose your favorite.

7) "Hard Times" - John Legend feat. The Roots

John Legend is back with the feel good music we are used to hearing from him. The combo with the legendary Roots gives this track a message for the masses. Be encouraged.

8) "I Think It's Over" and "Amazing You" - Ne-Yo

The King of the Pen is back with two tracks that convey polar opposite messages. The contrast was quite refreshing however, Ne-Yo has done it before. Would love to see something a bit more off the mark from him. Nonetheless, songs are good, classic Ne-Yo.

9) "Everyday Struggle" - Faith Evans feat. Raekwon

Music with a message is making a comeback and this is no different. Faith Evans lends her super star voice to this inspirational track. It's definietly a make you think piece.

10) "Check It Out" - Will. I. Am. feat. Nicki Minaj

Want to hear Nicki steal the show on someone else's record...again? Download the latest from the B.E.P. front man and see him slightly upstaged...In a good way.

11) "Take Me Away" - Jermaine Dupri feat. Johnta Austin

Great twist on the 80's track "Sailing" which has also been remade by the likes of N'SYNC and Avant. Wonderful cover.

12) "Follow Me (Like Twitter)" - Kevin McCall feat. Chris Brown

As first featured on Breezy's mixtape, In My Zone, this song seems to be resurfacing as a Kevin McCall joint. Has been one of my favorites so, I opted to put it on the list for your listening pleasure. Peep Chris's entire mixtape while you're at it.

Worth A Listen:

"Black and Yellow" - Wiz Khalifa

"Keep It 100" - Tank

"Pledge Allegiance to the Swag" - T.I. feat. Rick Ross

"Scratchy" - Trey Songz feat. Swizz Beatz

"Do You Get It?" - Kid Cudi

"Fireworks" - R. Kelly

Happy Downloading!

-Elena P. @elenamariep

COMING SOON - www.Chan-Lo.com

AYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY! Ladies and Gentlemen, the splash page is officially up for Chan-Lo.com and I am beyond ecstatic. It's taken quite some time but, it looks like things are moving forward rather quickly. Much love to Ashley Nguyen for the work she is putting in.

Stay Tuned!

PEACE. LOVE. PROGRESS.

XoXo

A very enthusiastic, Chan.Lo.

Fresh Friday ... Laid Up.

For You All - LAYOP Clothing Company

In 2000, two Michigan natives started Simple & Plain Clothing with the hopes of combining fresh urban gear with custom retro sneakers. In 2006, the gentlemen responsible launched Layop (Live A Your Own Pace) Clothing. I was introduced to LAYOP by a friend of mine and I must say, I'm definitely intrigued by the t-shirt game these fellas posess. I'll be copping my Billboard tee ASAP. Take a look at the merchandise and head over to http://www.layop.com/ to support the positivity.

P.S. An interesting note: the turtle logo "symbolizes courage in the face of adversity and endurance to withstand all obsticles while being mindful of its ultimate goal." How is that for a mission statement?

Check out a few of the pieces that caught my eye. Follow the fellas on Twitter @Layop

Men's Flash Hoodie - Coming Fall 2010

Women's Slow N' Steady Tee - $26.00

Men's Real Compton City "G" Tee - $25.00

Women's Billboard Tee - $25.00

Men's Paint Ball Tee - $30.00

Happy Shopping!

Peace. Love. Fresh.

XoXo

Chan.Lo.

Press Play - Artists You Know. Music You Don't.

Hello, again, my fellow music lovers! Check out my second playlist installment, full of the latest and greatest from today’s hottest artists. Enjoy! J

1) “Monster” Kanye West feat. Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj & Rick Ross

Dope. The beat is a Yeezy best. Intricate. New. Uncharted. Love it. However, I hate to say it, but Kanye was upstaged on his own record. Ms. Minaj does the damn thing! Take a listen.

2) “Wake Up Everybody” - John Legend feat. The Roots and Melanie Fiona

I love this, because the lyrical message conveyed through this record is so much more inspiring then any beat could ever be. Listen close. Be the change.

3) “You Just Need Me” - Trey Songz

Trey demonstrates versatility with this track, which is yet another leak off his forthcoming Passion, Pain, & Pleasure album (9/14/10). He incorporates some Euro energy into this record, but still keeps his traditional style throughout. If you’re like me and you can’t get enough of Mr. Songz, check out “Doorbell” and “Alone”, as well.

4) “Love ‘Em All” - Usher

Every record on Usher’s newly released Versus album is bomb, but this is one that gets my highest recommendation. Do yourself a favor and peep the whole disc.

5) “You Be Killin’ Em” - Fabolous

Fabo did his thaaanggg! Rhymes are there. Beat is there. Two thumbs up.

7) “Bottomz Up (Remix)” - Trey Songz feat. Gucci Mane & Wiz Khalifa

Different beat from it’s original, but I like the feel of this record. Gucci and Wiz give it a little extra twist of testosterone.

8) “Loving You No More” - Dirty Money feat. Drake

Drizzy’s verse goes extra hard, but the whole track is good look for Diddy and his Dirty Money crew. Dawn really shines with her vocals. Check it out.

*Chan.Lo. Note: Seems like Diddy is getting more play on the record however, the chorus and his verses are incredibly catchy. This may be another breakthrough single for the DM peeps.

9) “Make a Movie” - Twista feat. Chris Brown

They don’t call him “Mista Tongue Twista” for nothing. The man delivers on this record, in a big way. I am a fan of the Breezy collabo, as well. I feel a new record coming on…

10) “I’m Ready for You” - Drake

This track is just a demo. Beat is dope, though. Whoever picks it up will have a hit on their hands. Certainly worth the early listen.

11) “Movie Night” - Jesse Idol

Jesse is an up-and-coming artist, but this track is too smooth not to mention. Be on the look out for this young man. Bright future ahead!

Worth The Mention:

"Mama" - Lyfe Jennings feat. Anthony Hamilton

"What Up" - Pimp C feat. Drake and Bun B

Happy downloading!!

Until next time,

-Elena