"Empire State of Mind" at game two of the World Series

Jay and Alicia performing their smash hit "Empire State of Mind" at game two of the World Series. And notice, the Yanks won... Coincidence, I think not... "Yeah, I made the Yankee hat more famous than a Yankee can." - Jay... I wonder how well that line went over haha! -JS

2010 Preseason Coaches Poll

The top five of the ESPN/USA Today men's coaches' poll:

1.	2.	3.	4.	5.
For the complete ESPN/USA Today poll, click here.

It's the MOST WONDERFUL tiiiiiiiiiiime of the yeeeeeeeear!! Sorry, I have Christmas carols on the brain, but also a true statement nonetheless. My favorite sports season is almost back in action, and my boys from Chapel Hill are ready to defend their crown. With the loss of three starters, as well as sixth man of the year Danny Green, it will be tough to match last years run of dominance, but never count Roy Williams out. He is a masterful recruiter, and still has some beef from last year's bunch. In addition, he has also summoned, arguably one of the best recruiting classes ever. Should be a fun year for my Tar Heels, although filled with a few more downs than I would prefer. The Heels still have a good shot at making a deep run come March, however. -JS

Melo Posterizes Millsap

The NBA is back in full swing, and so is Nuggets All-star forward Carmelo Anthony. Dude straight demoralizes Paul Millsap of the Utah Jazz. Millsap will, unfortunately, remember this moment for a long, long time. I hope he doesn't have any kids yet... -JS

"Letter" - Wale ft. John Mayer

Wale is gradually growing on me. I think he finally snatched my attention with his new track "Contemplate" featuring Rihanna. Now he's teamed up with John Mayer for the musical piece that is "Letter." The hook is taken from John Mayer's "3 X 5" piece on the Room For Squares album. Mayer, being my favorite artist, you know I'm feelin this track at least a wee bit. -JS

Crackberry Catch of the Day - "Greatness"

"You better stay on my team cause I'm taking the world by storm. You just gotta be ready to catch the rock." -JS

Pro Keds - Spring 2010

So I just got a first look at the new Spring line up by Pro Keds, and this is my favorite model by far. The line up is rather simple all together, but this particular royal blue colorway is fairly eye catching, in my opinion. I give the line up as a whole a 3.5 out of 5 stars. To view the other models, check Hypebeast. -JS

Future Designer Laptop

Ummm... do I even need to say anything?? With the rate at which technology is advancing these days, this crafty, new laptop is not too far fetched. Pre-order please... -JS

DC LIFE Admiral Sport x Hotel On Rivington

Once again DC joins together with Hotel On Rivington for another collaboration dedicated to the popular Admiral. All pieces of this series so far have been very promising ones. As apart of the Spring 2010 DC LIFE Collection the Admiral Sport will be available January 2010 at select DC LIFE retailers and the DC Online Store.

I've said it once or twice, and I will say it again... The boys over at DC have officially STEPPED THEIR GAME UP! The new LIFE collection by DC has finally produced some quality footwear for sneaker heads and not just skaters. I give this piece, the Admiral Sport, a 4 out of 5 stars to the good fellas at DC. -JS

Maestro Knows - NYC Edition (Nigel Sylvester)

Maestro Knows - NYC Edition (Nigel Sylvester) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

In his first of the NYC series, Maestro teams up with BMXer Nigel Sylvester as they tear up the city. Young inspiration, baby. It's a beautiful thing. "Ride bikes, get money, stay fresh, stay fly..." - Nigel

They're Baaaaaaaaaaaack!!! (NBA Season Opener)

Yes indeed, ladies and gents. It is time, once again, for HOOPS! Okay Okay, so maybe I'm not the biggest advocate of the NBA regular season, but I gotta have my thirst for the hardwood quenched somehow. And for my viewing pleasure of choice, who else but the King himself. LeBron, Shaq, and company take on Ragin' Rondo, KG, and the gang at 7:30 eastern! Mission: a RING for the KING! Quest begins tonight. Stay tuned... -JS

"Make My Day" - Common ft. Cee-Lo

I dare anybody to listen to this track and not bob their head. It's a real feel good joint, and needless to say, I haven't heard one in a while. Just makes you wanna frolic down your local streets, high-fiving and throwing a smile to everybody you come in contact with! Anybody with me?? -JS

Quote/Thought for the Day

"Starve the negative. Embrace optimism." -JS

My Hiatus

hi⋅a⋅tus : a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.

Sorry I've been forced to hiding kids, but I promise I will be back ASAP!

Busy busy times, as well as off on a creative journey! See you soon! -JS

Air Jordan Sixty Plus - Celtics Edition

In April of 1986, Michael Jordan scored 63 points on the Celtics in a playoff game. Who can forget the highlight of Jordan crossing over between his legs with a helpless Larry Legend defending him, and landing a jumper from the right baseline area? This shoe, like all the other 60+ models is a hybrid sneaker that combines elements of the Air Jordan II (2), III (3), v (5), and VII (7)–all of the models he wore during his 60 + point performances. These look clean in a primarily white upper with green and black tooling. Patent leather on the midfoot and toe give the tumbled leather a nice counterpoint, while the white and splatter design above the soles provides some nice detail as well. Expect to see these at Jordan retailers soon, but you can beat everyone to the punch if you go to dunk.com.cn now.

If Jordan vs. Bird isn't enough to get you to buy this shoe, how bout the sheer dopeness of the colorway. Loving the Celtic green on these Jordans! I give the new Sixty Plus Jordans a rare, 5 out of 5 stars. -JS

"Who Can We Look To?" (Lil Wayne Incident)

So Weezy is to do a year behind bars due to gun possession. Talented individual, I have no argument there. I am a fan of some of his work, but we should be careful who we idolize. We can respect such artists, just as that, artists. As far as human beings with a fine moral compass, that is where we have to use our better judgment. Of course, all people make mistakes, but at some point we must look to others as "heroes." I would really rather not go into this huge rant because I am a big fan of hip hop and music in general, but I did feel it necessary to make a short post about the latest news coverage. I encourage all of my readers, as well as my self, to daily evaluate those that you place on a pedestal. -JS

Quote/Thought for the Day

"The bigger the risk, the bigger the reward."

Throwing caution to the wind, at times you must go all in. Trust in your abilities and let yourself go for the ride. -JS

Maestro Knows - NYC Edition (Intro)

Maestro Knows - NYC Edition (Intro) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

For a lil change of scenery, Maestro decided to venture to his second favorite city and give us an NYC edition. Stay tuned...

Quote/Thought for the Day - "Mediocrity"

"You surround yourself with mediocrity, you set yourself up for mediocrity. Be aware of the company you keep." -JS

  It's basically the same concept as a workout partner. What is the primary purpose of working out with someone? So they can match and up your intensity, as well as push you to work harder. If you are a 25 year old man that can bench press 300 pounds, what in the world would you be doing working out with an 18 year old girl? Putting the two workouts side by side, who would look more impressive? The same idea should be portrayed in our day to day endeavors. If we are constantly surrounded by those who are filled with apathy and have no goals or aspirations for their life, then how can we expect to be inspired and pushed to reach new heights? It would be that much easier to settle because compared to our surroundings, working an ordinary 9 to 5 at the local convenient store would look gargantuan. Keep yourself in check by setting up some form of accountability, such as a friend or business partner. Tough love is the name of the game, but you will ultimately benefit from it in the end. -JS

“Land of The Kings” Snapback Cap - U-N-I x Hella Tight

Hella Tight makes a return alongside fellow West Coasters U-N-I for a snap-back cap, taking on the Hip-Hop duo’s “Land of The Kings” theme and old school team design. The cap sports a Lakers-friendly Purple/Yellow colorway with a satin undervisor and matching satin button, packaged nicely in one of Hella Tight’s signature hat boxes. A release is scheduled for tomorrow, via the Hella Tight online store.

In dire need of a fresh snapback myself, I came across this piece by Hella Tight and am diggin it. I've always been a fan of the Laker purple and yellow, and this case is no different. I give the dope cap by Hella a 4.5 out of 5 stars. -JS

Converse Blackflag Collection

I took a look at the preview for Converse's up coming Blackflag collection, and this is my favorite model by far. To view the other pieces, check here. -JS

"Canon" - Kid Shreddin' on the Guitar

I found this vid a while back and fell in love with what this kid does to the track. Pretty dope stuff for sure! Gotta love the classics my friend! -JS

"Inspiration"

30th Anniversary Top Ten

adidas’ Top Ten turns 30 this year, and no respectable sneaker maker would let one of their iconic models slip through the year without a commemorative colorway. adidas tops this and comes out with two, one released earlier this year, and the second colorway which is available at select retailers at the moment. Crafted from a full grain black leather upper, the kicks remain predominantly black with slight accents of red and blue wrapping the heel. The 30th Anniversary emblem is featured on the heels and the “1979″ (year Top Ten debuted with the help of input from former basketball star, Rick Barry) along with the adidas logo are printed on the blue piping. Grab your pair at Wish today.
> adidas

adidas is probably my least favorite major shoe brand, but when I see something by them that I truly like, I pay homage. That is just the case with these bad boys. I love the colorway, the three patent leather stripes, and the 30th anniversary logo. Overall, I give the Top Ten a 4 out of 5 stars. -JS

Crackberry Catch of the Day - "Band-Aids"

As I was pondering on the statement  labeled on the above Polaroid, I was brought to my realization to the meaning behind my personal metaphor. My "band-aids" in life are my friends and family. Just under my faith, my family is the most important thing to me in this world, and I included in my kindred, friend relationships in that category. When life is giving you body blow after bone crushing body blow, your friends and family should be there to soften the hits and aid in the healing process. Keep them close and be sure to repay the favors when they are due. If not for family, I honestly believe that life would be less fulfilling. You cannot experience the true joy in anything until you share it with those closest to you. -JS

Ramblings

You were all of me

So that in you I see

Hopes and dreams tucked away

Better days were yesterday

But now

I release the chains...

-JS

Okay, so maybe that was a little grim and depressing. Sorry guys... How bout now??!!

J Says - "Positivity"

Listen as I speak out on my optimistic character, and why you may or may not see certain things on this blog... -JS


Cont...

NOOKA - ZAZ WT L

Watch maker NOOKA is known for its quirky and ultra-modern takes on both the practice of time reading and timepiece design. Fresh from the label is a new addition to its luxury line-up, the ZAZ. The most interesting aspect about this angular piece is the translucent digital face which gives an illusion that time is being displayed directly onto one’s wrist. The watch comes in both black and white and are now up for pre-order. A great conversational piece, the watch will ship out in early November in time for all the holiday activities and mingling.
> NOOKA

I'm a big fan of NOOKA and their ultra innovative designs, and this piece does not disappoint one bit! Time to retire my white Fossil and step my game up with the ZAZ. I give this latest creation from NOOKA a 4 out of 5 stars. -JS

"All the Right Moves" - One Republic

One Republic's latest release from their up coming album "Waking Up." The album drops November 17th. Dope video. Dope track. 

Story Time With J - "Mesmerizing Performance"

"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Oh, thank you thank you. You're far too kind." I project confidently in Jay-Z voice. Then with one last glimpse in the mirror, I scrape that pesky piece of leftover food from last nights dinner off my gum, and I'm good to go. Que my intro music. Oh wait, that's when I have to start humming. Is that the Beatles "Day Tripper" coming from my lips? Oh well, whatever works! Towel drops, boom! I ever so smoothly lift my right leg over the fifteen inch ledge, followed by my left. And I'm in. The crowd goes wild! A couple deep breaths as I adjust my overhang mic. One knob, two, knob, three knob. That's it; the water's just fine...

Okay okay. You guys are probably wondering what in the world is this dude talking about!? Sounds like wishful thinking of some sort of stage performance, huh? Well, something like that, but this is literal! I decided to give my readers out there my top 5 songs to belt out in the shower! Make sense now? Well here they are...

#5. "Gangster Nation" - Westside Connection

Sorry, guilty pleasure...

#4. "The Star Spangled Banner" - Francis Scott Key

I often enjoy honoring my native land while scrubba dub dubbin...

#3. "Rocky Top Tennessee" - Felice and Boudleaux Bryan

An old camping habit...

#2. "L.O.V.E" - Nat "King" Cole

Performed by many, none so great as... me! Who'd you think I was gonna say?!

#1. "Row Row Row Your Boat"

Greatest nursery rhyme of all time!!

And there you have it, ladies and gents! Please oh please, no scrutinizing my list. Simply take me for who I am, haha. Feel free to message me your top five, and maybe I can work out a new segment for the blog one day... -JS

Battle Studies x John Mayer

So the other day I gave you guys John's debut track from his latest Battle Studies album that will be dropping in November. Here is a first glimpse at the ablum cover art.

Quote/Thought of the Day

"I promote positivity. I don't have time for anything that's gonna pull me down and hinder me from reaching my pinnacle." -JS

Sneaker of the Day -- Air Jordan 1 Retro "Leroy Smith"

Jordan Brand has officially released this Air Jordan I Retro “Leroy Smith” sneakers that come in Black, Red, Purple, and Gold which fully compliment Leroy Smith’s outfits, which can be seen in his “My Gift to the Game” video. The “Leroy Smith” Air Jordan I’s feature Smith’s name stitched on the tongue label and combines some of the most cliche colors of the 90’s onto the shoe. The Air Jordan I Retro “Leroy Smith” is now available at select Jordan Brand retailers including Citysole.

Whoa!!! Can anybody say, straight fiiiirreeee! These new Air Jordan 1 Retros are some of the fiercest sneakers I've seen lately. The colorway mixture is my favorite aspect of the shoe. I instantly fell in love with the pallet. I give the new Retro 1's a 5 out of 5 stars... And that's a first! -JS

Stylophone Beatbox

The trade of beatboxing requires both hard work and let’s face it, talent. While not everyone is about to drop beats like MC Zani, UK’s beatbox champion, a new interesting little gadget will help you achieve his level of proficiency with easy tapping. At just $25 a pop, the Stylophone Beathbox features 13 metal pads that will generate sounds of MC Zani when tapped with a stylus. Other than insane tapping, the toy also has a loop mode which enables one to build and layer different sounds ranging from percussion to human beatbox and bass samples. Check out some demo videos and have the guys who already got their hands on the gadget to show you how it’s done! Also, the beatbox is now available via: 100 Milligrams. via: Gizmodo




As comical as this video may be, the Stylophone Beatbox is a pretty dope little gadget. Me, being interested in music production and beat making, I wouldn't mind have one of these bad boys to toat around with me. -JS

Track of the Day -- "Who Says" - John Mayer

From John's latest project "Battle Studies" which drops November 17th. John Mayer is my all time favorite artist, yet it still took a while for this one to grow on me. I guess you must look past the "who says you can't get stoned" line and dive deeper into his lyrical thesis of the track.

J Says -- Roscoe Umali

Just came across this video dated back to last year, but not many people are aware of Roscoe so I decided to put you guys onto something fresh. A good friend of mine suggest I download some Roscoe Umali a while back, and I almost instantly fell in love. He has a definite refreshing sound and has worked with such artists as E 40, Bobby Valentino, Colby O'donis, Talib Kweli, and more. I highly recommend you guys check out some Roscoe ASAP! You heard it here first! - J Says

Quote/Thought of the Day

"To live a life filled with envy... How dissatisfied it would be." -JS

Street Etiquette x Tone

STREET ETIQUETTE from TONE on Vimeo.

If these dudes don't leave you inspired, please check your pulse. The work they are doing is straight dope! Street Etiquette

Track of the Day -- "Free Falling" - John Mayer

Is it bad that on some days I let my itunes decide the track of the day? Just put that puppy on shuffle and see what happens, haha! Well today, I think it picked a winner. Tom Petty, eat your heart out! John Mayer kills it, and no one can change my opinion on that! "I wanna free fall out into nothing. I wanna leave this world for a while..."

Crackberry Catch of the Day -- "A Litte Bit of Me"

A couple months ago, I decided to pack up shop and move my life down to Miami, FL.  I had basically spent my entire life up to that point, in North Carolina, but it was time for a change. A change of scenery, a change of pace, a change of mindset. It was time to make things happen for myself. With big city dreams and the heart of a champion, I decided to take the plunge and relocate along with two great friends of mine. I have had intense plans of greatness ever since I was a young boy, and finally at the age of 23, it was time to set these plans into motion. My body is constantly flowing with creative juices. Sometimes I am not even aware of how to channel them, but I know the world needs to see. My three passions: music, writing, and fashion, have been a focal point for many years now. I have tried my hardest to shift my focus to other areas, but I am continually brought back to these three. By no means do I have my life's plan all mapped out yet, but I have begun my new journey, the next chapter of my life. In what way will I incorporate these three areas and make them one, huge success for myself? That, I am working on daily. I have decided that it is time to take the planning and draw out a map for myself, then just jump in! There is always necessary logistical action to be taken, but at some point you must simply go for it all. That is what I have learned recently, and that is what I am attempting to accomplish on a day to day basis. So back to where this post all started... It is more than just reppin' where you come from. It's a reminder to stay grounded and always remember your roots. Never forget how you got to where you are today.

Maccheronian "Houndstooth" Chukka

Maccheronian incorporated some iconic materials into a new footwear release seen here. Houndstooth grace a four-hole chukka style vulcanized sneaker. On the back is also a contrasting suede highlight. Available at JOURNAL STANDARD for 14,490 YEN.