Today March 9th, 2013 marks 16 years to the day that the Notorious B.I.G. was murdered in LA. Leaving a huge void in the life of his family as well as the Hip Hop community.

A lot of people always say “why do we celebrate the day people die more than their birthday?” That’s a GREAT question. As far as our celebrities, I think the reason why is, we weren’t there when they were born, but we were there when they passed, and we remember the effect it had on us personally.

Even though the Notorious B.I.G. technically only released ONE album before his death (his second LP was released 2 weeks after his death) he created a LOT of hits and classic tracks that still are loved and played heavily till this day. One can only imagine where and what Biggie would be doing today if he were still alive.

So today especially, as I do in May (when his birthday is) I play Big’s music wherever I’m at un-apologetically loud! I suggest you do the same.

We still miss you B.I.G… R.I.P.

Here’s some rare footage of Biggie, and Puff Daddy performing in London from Tim Westwood. This was captured during a BBC Radio event in London circa 1995

On Saturday February 23rd, 2013 Nike hosted a day of service in celebration of the 37th annual Black History Month with the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Metro Atlanta organization. Three Atlanta based athletes who were rebels in their sport as well as game-changers in their community were selected to inspire the youth and enable with a purpose. Anson Carter (NHL), Fred McCrary (NFL), and Warrick Dunn (NFL) spoke to a room of BBBS “Little’s” about what it means to “Be Bold. Be True.” They also shared stories of their past, and the obstacles they’ve overcome to achieve their goals.

In addition Nike Sportswear Senior Footwear Designer Jonathan Johnson-Griffin was also in attendance to speak about his journey as an African American designer, as well as the inspiration behind the 2013 Nike Black History Month footwear and apparel collection.

The event was hosted by WXIA 11 Alive’s Sam Crenshaw and took place at the Big Brothers Big Sisters midtown headquarters nicknamed “The House.” Exclusive Nike “Be Bold. Be True.” T-shirts were given out to youth in attendance.

This was a great event. Thanks to everybody who helped make this happen. Always remember influence and inspiration is important for our youth.

L to R: Anson Carter, Warrick Dunn, Jonathan Johnson-Griffin, Fred McCrary

Señor Kaos warming up the crowd

JJG and a piece of the Nike 2013 BHM footwear & apparel collection designed by Jonthan Johnson-Griffin

Former Atlanta Falcon Warrick Dunn

Señor Kaos, Anson Carter, Warrick Dunn, Janice McKenzie-Crayton, Alicia Willis, JJG, Fred McCrary, Christian Weaver

Tomorrow is the day many sneakerheads have been waiting for. 2012 was a great year for Lebron James. That’s a huge statement cause 2010 was a not-so great year. Lebron after making the famous quote “I’m taking my talents to South Beach” during “The Decision” became the most hated player in the NBA. Former fans burned his jersey, the media scrutinized him, It was all bad!

Bron didn’t let the pressure get to him though. Coming back in his 2nd year with the Miami Heat he did what he set out to do… Win his first NBA Championship. Then he won MVP for the 3rd time… And during the summer he went to London where he won a gold medal for the U.S. Mens Basketball team. Not bad Lebron, not bad at all.

To commemorate all the celebrating Lebron has done Nike footwear designer Jonathan Johnson-Griffin will be making a stop in ATL tomorrow to celebrate with those lucky enough to receive a pair.

2/23/13 JJG will be doing a meet & greet at Wish in ATL where he will be signing boxes of the Lebron X Corks for those few lucky folks. Definitely stop by and meet the man behind the shoe. Check out all the info below.

NBA All Star Weekend is amongst us. That means you can expect a lot of ATL strippers headed to Houston, new footwear releases from the swoosh, the dunk contest, and some fresh ad spots.

Check out two new commercials one for the Jordan XX8 and the other letting you know KD Is Not Nice! I’m sure these will be on heavy rotation on the tube this weekend. What do you think?

Jordan – Dare To Fly spot. I like this one a lot. MJ always make a great narrater.

Do you love Fela Kuti? Afrobeat? How about DJ Kemit? If you’re familiar with any of the above you might want to check out DJ Kemit’s Spreadlove “Fela” event going on tonight in ATL at 595 North. Celebrating the return of the FELA! Musical to ATL!!

Check out this exclusive mix from DJ Kemit.

Well… the day is upon us. I’m not talking about Valentine’s Day although that is today too… I’m referring to a different type of love today. My love for fresh sneakers.

If you missed the Nike Flyknit Racer & Trainer last summer, Nike is back with another installment of the sought after knit upper with the Flyknit Lunar One.

With the flyknit upper the shoe reduces waste by using synthetic yarns and less glueing, stitching, etc. But not only is it environmentally friendly, it’s super comfy as well. Whether your looking for a neutral running shoe or just something unique to wear with a pair of jeans, this shoe has got you covered. It also comes in plenty of color ways as well.

Check out Nike footwear designer Rob Williams as he gives you an inside look to the Flyknit Lunar One.
Then head to NikeStore to get you a pair.

For all my Raphael Saadiq fans out there. Check out this mix DJ Trauma and DJ Mars put together called “The Sounds of Saadiq.” Lots of jams on here, blended perfectly. This project is the perfect soundtrack for lighting a candle, grabbing a glass of wine, and spending some time with that special someone.

DJ Trauma and DJ Mars, two members of Atlanta’s World Famous Super Friends DJ collective, are back with not only a new mixtape but the first in their new #InstantVintage series that they’re presenting in association with SoulBounce.com. The twosome have cooked up The Sounds of Saadiq, with just shy of an hour’s worth of all things Raphael Saadiq. This mixtape includes Saadiq’s solo cuts as well as his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, duets, features and even tracks that he’s written and produced for other artists. You’ll hear a little bit of everything on The Sounds of Saadiq with a blend of studio, live and rare Raphael Saadiq selections along with artists such as D’Angelo, Kelis, Teedra Moses, Musiq Soulchild, Total, A Tribe Called Quest, The Roots and so many more. If you love Raphael Saadiq as much as we do, then you are going to love what DJ Trauma and DJ Mars have done on this mixtape and on future editons of the #InstantVintage series in the coming months.

Tony! Toni! Toné! – (Lay Your Head on My) Pillow [Live]
Tony! Toni! Toné! – It Never Rains (In Southern California) [Live]
Tony! Toni! Toné! – Lovin’ You
Tony! Toni! Toné! – Tossin’ & Turnin’
Raphael Saadiq – Still Ray
Tony! Toni! Toné! – Top Notch
Raphael Saadiq feat. D’Angelo – Be Here
Raphael Saadiq feat. Stevie Wonder and CJ – Never Give You Up
The Roots feat. Raphael Saadiq – What They Do
Tony! Toni! Toné! – Ask of You (Traumatized Mars Remix)
Teedra Moses feat. Raphael Saadiq – Take Me
Kelis – Glow
A Tribe Called Quest feat. Raphael Saadiq – Stressed Out (Baby Phife Remix)
Total – Kissing You
Musiq Soulchild – Better Man
Lucy Pearl – Without You (Jay Dilla Remix)
Raphael Saadiq feat. Common & Ledisi – They Don’t Know
Raphael Saadiq feat. Teedra Moses – I Want You Back
Raphael Saadiq feat. Q-Tip – Get Involved
Raphael Saadiq feat. Ledisi and Goapele – Different Times
Raphael Saadiq – Skyy, Can You Feel Me
Tony! Toni! Toné! feat. DJ Quik – Let’s Get Down
Tony! Toni! Toné! – Annie May

Download or Stream: “The Sounds Of Saadiq”

New video from BK emcee Skyzoo featuring Talib Kweli. Track is called “Spike Lee Was My Hero.” Taken from his recent “A Dream Deferred” LP.

It’s been a LONG time since I caught SNL. Had to check it out this past Saturday night when I heard Kendrick Lamar would be the featured performer. Gotta make sure those ratings are nice, so they invite some real Hip-Hop artist back on the show. If you missed it, check it below. The show is also hosted by Adam Levine.