Here are three music videos from three talented Hip-Hop artists from the DMV (DC, MD, and VA). I like all three of these songs and the videos are a great representation of the lyrics. Check them out and download their mixtapes if you like them.
Cool
Steph Castro – Clear Water Chillin
Creative
EQ - The Great Escape
Crazy
Sketch – Virginia Tec-9
FUNNY
Tyler The Creator – She (Ft. Frank Ocean)
COOL
Wale – The Cloud ft. Tiara Thomas
SEXY
Keri Hilson – Lose Control ft. Nelly
Snack – Insomnia Cookies
Before my
fiance and I embarked on our New York City Spring Break, I took the liberty of checking out the surrounding businesses of the Park79 Hotel and discovered that there was a cookie place right around the corner from there. After reading a lot of positive reviews, I knew we just had to get some cookies from Insomnia Cookies located on Amsterdam Avenue of the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Because we were so full from dinner the night before, we decided to grab some cookies on the day of our departure from NYC. So we left the hotel loaded down with bags in each hand and decided to get in line at Insomnia and see what the rave was all about.
As we waited in line behind a large group of kids (who should have been in school at the time), I looked at the overhead menu and tried to make a swift, decisive choice of cookie. After finding out they were all out of oatmeal raisin (my favorite cookie), I decided to go for chocolate chip which the cashier pulled fresh out of the oven below the cash register. That initial bite sent my taste-buds into a state of bliss that led to what can only be described as a chocolate supernova (no relation to Oasis’ “Champagne Supernova” by the way). The chocolate morsels literally melted in my mouth as we walked to the subway station. It’s ooey gooey goodness had my tongue begging for an ice cold glass of milk to help wash it down. Lucky for me, the cookie was so chewy and soft it didn’t really require any additives for the experience. Insomnia Cookies made our exit from NYC a good one and made me wish they would expand to the DMV (D.C, Md., & Va. area). But hey, at least I got to enjoy it while I was there.
Official website of Insomnia Cookies: Insomnia Cookies
Breakfast – Manhattan Diner
The next morning we were on another mission to find somewhere to eat. As we walked around NYC we stumbled upon this place called Manhattan Diner. Initially I was a little apprehensive about eating there. Up to that point my experiences with diners hadn’t been a good one and I wasn’t too sure about chancing my dining experience on another run-of-the-mill “Diner.” But lucky for me, I decided to throw caution to the wind and eat there and had a great experience. The Manhattan Diner is located in a ritzy area of the Upper West Side of NYC. Just to give you an idea of how ritzy the area is, about one block down the street from the diner there are condo’s selling in excess of $1.5 million dollars. And now that I look back at it, I should have known a run-down diner would not have been able to stay in that area for eleven years if the food was less than amazing. So there we were, seated at this restaurant that has all the features of your basic diner. There are bar stools situated in front of a large wrap-around kitchen counter top in the main area of the restaurant, tiled walls, tables for two and four guests and large windows for viewing the busy NYC streets.
After we are greeted by our server and given menus, we look through the extensive list of dishes that all look and sound great. I loved the wide variety of food options. I could get breakfast, lunch, or dinner and me being the omelet connoisseur that I am, the sound of feta cheese, fresh spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms was too enticing to pass up. So I ordered what they refer to as the “Athenian Omelet” with a side of home fries. Now you have to trust me when I tell you, it was one of the best, if not thee best omelet I have ever had. It wasn’t overcooked or undercooked. The feta cheese melted well into the omelet and the mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach gave me the flavorful, veggie filler that every healthy breakfast needs. The dish went well with the two slices of toast that accompanied it. I only finished one slice of the toast. I was so full and the orange juice on the side put me over the top from full to borderline stuffed.
Who would’ve known that on the corner of Broadway and 77th Street sat a gem of a diner. But, don’t get too overjoyed my fellow foodies. If you were to go to that same very spot today you won’t see the booming Manhattan Diner that I speak of in this post. Its land, like many parts of other major cities, was apparently bought up by a big developer and it is currently being converted into a large high rise. But, with that said, there is some good news for all of you diner lovers. Manhattan Diner did not go out of business. It still exists. They simply moved to 2532 Broadway between (94th & 95th street). So as a satisfied customer, I am advising you to experience the Manhattan Diner at least once in your lifetime. And whether you live within a mile, or a hundred miles of it, mark my words when I say, “the trip will be well worth it!”
Manhattan Diner Official Website: Manhattan Diner
My NYC Spring Break To Be Continued in Part 2.3: The Insomnia Cookie Experience
So there we were. After a four hour ride from D.C., we had finally arrived in Manhattan. The excitement filled the air as we off loaded our stuff from the MegaBus and began to take a bite of the Big Apple. And I use the term “bite” figuratively and literally. As I am sure many of you may know, NYC offers some of the best places to dine at, serving some of the finest cuisine you can get in the great ol’ U.S. of A. Well, I don’t know if any of you have noticed or not, but I LOVE food. I am a sucker for delicious and unique dishes that leave a long-lasting impression on me. So I was prepared to take full advantage of all the great food that NYC had to offer during our stay. With that said, here’s what we ate during our mini-vacay.
Lunch – Bettola
Bettola Dining Room
After arriving at our hotel and being without food for the last few hours of our trip, we needed something to eat. Since we were staying at Park79 on the Upper West side of Manhattan, we didn’t feel like taking the train all the way back down to Time Square. So we searched for places to eat near the hotel and after walking for a few minutes we walked past a very warm, cozy looking Italian restaurant named Bettola. We briefly looked over the menu and were instantly sold. The brick and stone walls combined with the amazing scent of homemade Italian food, the occasional sound of wine glasses clinking and the look and feel of a wood burning oven added to the romantic, earthy ambiance. The pretty Italian server we had, who, unlike myself, pronounced every word on the menu perfectly added to its authenticity. Her courteous attitude combined with the hospitality and polite persona of the bussers and other servers made the evening feel special and reminded me of those family owned businesses who actually value their food and their customers. Actually, the only thing better than the customer service was the food.
Bettola Outdoor Cafe
For a starter, or as they say in Italian, the “Antipasti,” we ordered the “Calamari Alla Griglia.” It was grilled calamari! Yes, you read me correctly, Grilled Calamari over mixed greens and tomatoes and it was De-Lic-Ious! I had never tasted calamari prepared in any other way than pan-fried or deep-fried until this point, so it was definitely a pleasant surprise to taste it grilled. The greens and tomatoes blended well with the taste of the calamari and it was seasoned perfectly. As an entree, I ordered the “Braciola Di Pollo” which was stuffed baked chicken with spinach, fontina and mushrooms with aged Marsala sauce and pureed potatoes. This dish was PHENOMENAL! The combination of the semi-sweet and salty from the Marsala sauce with the hint of salty from the spinach, the cheesy fontina with that great texture from the pureed potatoes and baked chicken made me want to savor each and every delectable bite. This was not your momma’s spinach stuffed chicken meal. This was heaven on a plate and ecstasy in food form.
Bettola Wood Burning Oven
My fiance ordered the “Salmone Al Forno” which was their oven roasted salmon filet with vegetables and roasted potatoes. After we sampled from each others’ plates we knew we made the right choice in dining at Bettola. The salmon was moist and flavorful and went perfectly with the vegetables and potatoes. And just as we thought the meal couldn’t get any better, we ordered their “Apple crisp with vanilla gelato” for dessert and simultaneously gave sighs of satisfaction as the warmth and sweetness of the apple crisp collided with the cold, sugary, creaminess of the vanilla gelato. Needless to say, we left the restaurant pleased, making our server the benefactor of our wonderful dining experience. So, as a word of advice: If you are ever in the Upper West Side of NYC and looking for a place that offers great food and a great atmosphere, this is what quality looks and tastes like.
Official Website of Bettola: Bettola
My NYC Spring Break To Be Continued in Part 2.2: The Manhattan Diner Experience
Sexy: Kelly Rowland – “Motivation” Ft. Lil Wayne
Kelly Rowland will forever = S.E.X.Y!!
Weird: Katy Perry – “E.T.” Ft. Kanye West
For once, omitting Kanye from a song would have actually helped.
Cool: Chris Brown – “She Aint You”
Although this video has nothing to do with the song other than the songs use of the Michael Jackson “Human Nature” sample, I think it was a great tribute to the King of Pop.
How It Began (Rappers turned Actors)
Rapper and Actor. Two careers that were the furthest thing from one another 20 years ago. But today, in 2011, seem almost synonymous. I’d say it began on September 10, 1990 when a young up-and-coming rapper from Philly took his skills from the studio to the television screen with his mega-hit, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. The rapper I am speaking of, is of course present day Hollywood superstar Will Smith, best known then as The Fresh Prince. The Fresh Prince of Bel Air went on to air 148 episodes over the course of its six year span, solidifying not just Will Smith as an actor, but Hip-Hop as a possible pool for leading sitcom roles. It’s high fan base and viewership quickly translated into dollar signs for Hollywood and an increase in roles for black actors. On April 10, 1995 a suave, future Hip-Hop icon by the name of James Todd Smith, took the moniker LL Cool J (Ladies Love Cool James) and made it a household name with his hit tv series In The House. The success of these shows took rappers from the radio to the small screen and eventually to the big screen. Will Smith went on to star in the box-office hit Independence Day (1996) which solidified his position in blockbuster films like Bad Boys (1995) , Men in Black (1997), Ali (2001), I Am Legend (2007), Hancock (2008) and most recently Seven Pounds (2008). Today he is Hollywood’s highest paid and most sought after actor. LL Cool J went on to star in bloc
kbuster hits like Deep Blue Sea (1999), Any given Sunday(1999), Charlies Angels (2000), S.W.A.T. (2003), and now has a starring role in the television series N.C.I.S. Los Angeles alongside Chris O’ Donnell. Garnering monetary success for the movie industry, LL Cool J and Will Smith have proven that the inclusion of a Hip-Hop figure’s image in a project on the small and big screen can do big things for television and cinema. As a result, within the last ten years we have seen a huge increase in rappers appearing on t.v. shows (most of them are reality shows these days though) and movie screens across America.
What it is Now
Some famous rappers who have been in movies are:
50 Cent (Get Rich or Die Trying, Righteous Kill), Andre 3000 (Semi Pro, Four Brothers, Idlewild), Big Boi (Idlewild, ATL), Busta Rhymes (Higher Learning, Shaft, Halloween Resurrection), Common (Brown Sugar, Wanted, American Gangster, Street Kings, Smokin’ Aces, Terminator Salvation, Date Night, Just Wright), DMX (Belly, Exit Wounds, Cradle 2 The Grave, Romeo Must Die, Never Die Alone), Dr. Dre (The Wash, Training Day), Eminem (8 Mile, The Wash), Eve (Barbershop 1 & 2, Whip It), The Game (Street Kings), Ice Cube (Boyz n The Hood, Friday, Higher Learning, The Barbershop 1 & 2, All About The Benjamin’s, Torque, XXX: State of the Union, Are We There Yet?, Janky Promoters, Lottery Ticket & many more), Ice-T (Breakin’, New Jack City, Tank Girl, Johnny Mnemonic), Ja Rule (The Fast and The Furious, Half Past Dead, Assault on Precinct 13), Ludacris (2 Fast 2 Furious, Hustle & Flow, Crash, Max Payne, Fred Clause, RocknRolla, Gamer, Fast Five), Mark Wahlberg (The Happening, Three Kings, The Perfect Storm, The Big Hit, Shooter, Invincible, The Italian Bob, Four Brothers, The Fighter and many more), Master P (I Got The Hook Up), Method Man (How High), Mos Def (Bamboozled, Brown Sugar, 16 Blocks, T
he Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Be Kind Rewind, Cadillac Records, Next Day Air), Nas (Belly), Nelly (The Longest Yard), Queen Latifah (Set It Off, Sphere, Chicago, Brown Sugar, Bringing Down The House, BeautyShop, Last Holiday, just Wright & many more), Redman (How High), The RZA (American Gangster, Due Date , Ghost Dog, Repo Men), Snoop Dogg (The Wash, Baby Boy, Bones, Starsky & Hutch, Training Day, Soul Plane), T.I. (ATL, American Gangster, Takers), TuPac (Juice, Poetic Justice, Above The Rim, Gridlock’d, Gang Related), Tyrese, yes he raps too (Transformers 1 -3, Baby Boy, Waist Deep, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Four Brothers, Annapolis, Death Race, Legion, Fast Five), Will. I .Am (X-Men Origins: Wolverine), Xzibit (8 Mile, Gridiron Gang, Derailed, XXX: State of the Union), and many many more.
Here are some lists and ratings of rappers turned actors that can be found on IGNMusic, FirstShowing.Net, and VH1.com.
Role Reversal (Actors turned rappers)
Drake as Jimmy Brooks aka Wheelchair Jimmy
With that said, it is no longer a surprise to see a rapper turned actor these days. But, it is however, a shift in conversation when actors take on the role of rappers. With Hip-Hop being one of the most dominant genres in music and one of the highest grossing, some familiar faces in television are beginning to cash in on the opportunity and translate their skills from the screen to the mic. Case in point, one of the biggest names in Hip-Hop right now: Aubrey Graham, best known as Drake. This budding actor went from his semi-popular role on Canadian television series Degrassi: The Next Generation as Jimmy Brooks or a character many of us refer to as “Wheelchair Jimmy” (he rolled around in a wheelchair in the series and even occasionally rapped on one or two episodes) to currently toasting it up with some of Hip-Hop’s elites on sold out tours and award shows everywhere. In an unprecedented event, his critica
lly acclaimed third mixtape So Far Gone launched him from Hip-Hop nobody to having his voice heard every hour on the hour on all major Hip-Hop radio stations in the country. Garnering record deal offers from various top label execs, he eventually signed an alleged $1 million+ deal with his good friend Lil Wayne to become a member of Young Money and later released his now certified platinum album Thank Me Later. Since his introduction to the Hip-Hop scene, Drake has worked with music heavyweights like Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Mary J, Blige, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Kanye West, Trey Songz, Timbaland, Rihanna and Alicia Keys, to name a few. As a result of his success, other actors are starting to follow suit.
Case in Point, may I divert your attention to actor recently turned rapper Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino. This star of the NBC series Community and writer for the critically acclaimed NBC series 30 Rock is making waves in the Hip-Hop scene with his self titled EP. Although it only has 5 songs on it, the Childish Gambino EP is filled with great production and great lyrical content, proving that actors can rap as well. And while there are some similarities to Lil Wayne’s style of delivery and Drake’s lyrical content on the EP which may challenge the integrity of who he is as an artist, it is still a project to lookout for and it is gaining him a lot of buzz. With six music projects currently under his belt, an ever-growing fan base, a mini tour in progress, a Comedy Central special and countless appearances, Childish Gambino is setting himself up to be a breakthrough mainstream artist. So to answer my own question, “What happens when Hip-Hop moves to the big screen and vice versa?” Well, so far it seems to be: GREATNESS!!!
Osama Bin Laden
I don’t often voice my opinion on political/government issues, but an event with such a magnitude as the assassination of Osama Bin Laden is a conversation I feel I am obligated to have with you. But I am not going to talk to you about the assassination specifically. Because I am not here to voice my opinion on whether Osama is actually dead or not. I will not say whether I think that his, what some consider ‘alleged’ death is a good or a bad thing for the American people or even on a larger scale, the world. I am simply here to discuss the antics that ensued immediately after the announcement of his death.
After I discovered that Osama Bin Laden had been killed, I immediately turned the Channel 9 news on and watched as the female reporter interviewed the public live from the street in front of The White House. To my surprise, there were hundreds if not thousands of people gathering to ‘celebrate’ the death of America’s number one enemy, Osama Bin Laden. As an American, I know I probably should have felt relieved and as ‘jubilant’ as all of those citizens who were partying and throwing around beach balls and dressing like American flags. But for some reason that scene of pandemonium in my eyes appeared to be more of a juvenile spectacle. Rather than people paying their respects to the deceased who lost their lives on 9-11-2001, people were drunk in the streets acting like fools. There was no candle light vigil, there was no moment of silence, and many were acting blind to the fact that this does not mean the end of terrorism as we know it. The scene outside of The White House looked more like a college frat party than a crowd of people paying their respects to the hundreds of people who are no longer here.
Students celebrating outside of White House
And as much as I’d like to be un-emotional to the many types of ignorance and “bafoonery” I witnessed on my television screen late last night, I can’t. One guy even said, “this is like the return of Jesus Christ.” If that isn’t ignorant, I don’t know what is. I watched as the reporter asked countless college students, long term D.C. natives and tourists their feelings about what happened and what Osama’s death meant to them and many people couldn’t even give intelligent responses. It seemed to me that most were outside of The White House because it was something to do on a boring Sunday night and because everyone else was doing it they were going to do it as well. For a country who often criticizes 3rd world countries for publicly celebrating the deaths of people, we sure didn’t differentiate ourselves from them last night. I thought we were supposed to be a country who sets examples for the world. I thought we were supposed to have values and morals and sense.
Man who called himself "Captain America"
As I watched the people waiving signs that read, “Obama beat Osama” and “Ding Dong Bin Laden Is Dead” I couldn’t help but think we have reverted back to our primal “hunt or be hunted” state. Within those minutes of watching the circus that took place last night, I witnessed American citizens transgress back to a Neanderthal state. Pitchforks and torches might have been more fitting than the beach balls and as of less than 12 hours ago T-Shirts that read, “Obama Got Osama.” <<(Capitalism is truly flourishing in D.C.) When we celebrate death, we become like the terrorists we so highly despise. So rather than partying in the street and tweeting, “Who’s going to have the Bin Laden is Dead party this week?” (Yes that was a real tweet that I saw last night on Twitter) We should focus on the real issue: What happens next? Does this mean we are going to pull our troops out of Afghanistan? Does this mean we are going to reduce the “non-sensical” amount of spending on our military to help battle the deficit? What does this mean for Obama’s re-election for a second term? These are the questions that intrigue me. These are the things that ran through my mind as I watched the antics of the devolved mindless barbarians I saw last night.
"America Fuck Yeah"
As I think about our future while replaying images of the results of what’s been quoted as the end of the biggest game of Hide-n-Seek, I remind myself that the “War On Terror” still continues the day after OBL’s (Osama Bin Laden) death. And that this high-energy producing moment for some, will be very short-lived. I now ponder the possible detrimental effects of the assassination. Not just taking into consideration OBL’s comrades, but also the American government and military. What types of restrictions or limitations may be further imposed on the American people as a result of trying to maintain our safety? What types of backlash may occur as a result of our in-your-face “Deathebration.” I think you too should be considering these questions if you haven’t already and I hope this is a most sobering moment for any of you out there drinking the Kool-Aid with the rest of the folks.
I’d like to leave you with this: To all those who celebrated OBL’s death, let’s rather celebrate the lives of the hundreds of people we lost. Let’s be the better people, hold our heads high and be thankful that in the last ten years we haven’t had another attack. Let’s appreciate each beautiful day that we have been given and celebrate each peaceful day we hope to have in the future. P.S.: I am in no way, shape, or form in opposition of Osama being killed, I am simply in opposition of the antics that occurred after his death was announced. If you would like to have your opinion heard on the situation, don’t hesitate to reply to this post. Let’s converse and get our opinions out. But, I will delete any comments that I find to be inappropriate or a personal attack on me.
For more opinions on the “Deathebration” checkout: The Atlantic, DailyCaller.com, and Dailymail.co.uk.
Emerging from a budding DMV (D.C., Md. & Va.) music scene springs the eclectic and talented Ihsan Bilal. With countless features on local hip-hop artist’s songs and a style like no other, Ihsan Bilal is definitely on a path to bring her lifelong dream to life. Music has been a huge influence in her life since the young age of six. With a father who is a keyboardist and singer, and a brother who is an emerging music artist himself, there is no doubt that musical affluence runs in the Bilal family. With a knack for music and film, this songstress is destined for greatness and future success. I had the opportunity to meet Ihsan and briefly speak with her on a few occasions and although our conversations were brief, I could see that she has a beautiful spirit. Her professionalism combined with her talent and positivity are what caught my attention and made me to want to know more about her experiences, her hopes and dreams, and her plans for the future. So here it is:
Ihsan Bilal
@Arteest1: I know you have been writing and singing since the age of six. What inspired you to pursue music as a career?
@Ihsanbilal: There were a few instances but one that really stood out was when I was a little girl and I saw Michael Jackson perform on tv at the super bowl. I said to myself I want to be like that and have a gazillion people know who I am, anticipate my every move, and help people over the entire world lol through my music!
@Arteest1: What influence has your family played in your music career?
@Ihsanbilal: My family is awesome lol! We are all involved in the arts in some way. My father really believed in me at a very young age and always entered me in talent shows. I have four younger siblings and we were like a modern day jackson 5. My brother AB produces, writes, sings, and raps. He produces most of my music. My brother Nabeeh creates music videos, he founded CreativeJunkFood and shot my animated “Barbie Doll” music video. My sister Karimah sings background for me from time to time and we all support each other.
@Arteest1: What is the motivation behind your music?
@Ihsanbilal: Art. Just pure Art. I could go on and say a specific show or movie. But, I’m inspired by Life and that in itself is Art.
@Arteest1: I know you have worked with numerous local music artists like X.O., Cayan, Nike Nando, and PHZ-Sicks. What other producers, music artists, and/or bands have you collaborated with?
@Ihsanbilal: Ra the Mc, Jay Millz, Emperess, Chris Barz, Deangelo Redman, 2tone 7, pert mcfly and the list goes on and on.
I feel blessed!!
@Arteest1: Name some of your favorite music artists/musicians.
@Ihsanbilal: Of course MJ. My favorite is N.E.R.D.,Beyonce’, Prince, Marsha Ambrosius, Chaka Khan, Janet Jackson and a whole lot more
@Arteest1: What musicians/music artists would you like to work with?
@Ihsanbilal: I definitely would love to branch out of the city and work with everyone. NERD is #1 on my list:) They’re so different and underrated in my opinion.
@Arteest1: Describe your dream performance.
@Ihsanbilal: The super bowl and the Grammy’s- I fantasize every year these award shows come on- sighhhhh …one day lol!
@Arteest1: What is something that most people don’t know about you?
@Ihsanbilal: I love sports! I used to play soccer, t-ball, softball, tennis (for a few days lol) and basketball. I’m a huge basketball fan. Derreck Rose is the man. lol! I predict Chicago winning the ring this year!:)
@Arteest1: I know that you have executive produced a few music videos. What videos did you produce, how was that experience and do you see yourself producing more in the future?
@Ihsanbilal: I executive produced all of my music videos. We are up to number 6 yayyyyy! A lot of work goes into them, sleepless nights, literally blood sweat and tears. I’m actually in the process of putting together my biggest production yet for my debut single “Big Band Theory” . We’re shooting that next month in a week! I have the Ballou Marching band plus over 100 other people on set. This will be pretty cool when its done.
@Arteest1: How did you link up with The Danvilles and how has your experience performing with them been?
@Ihsanbilal: Long story short- By me telling everyone that doesn’t know me that I’m a singer (you never know who you’re going to meet). I met Mike (the creator of merrifield records) and we connected instantly. The guys are cool. We rehearsed once and headed to Texas. Its been pretty awesome to know that no matter your race, color, or creed people just really love talent! I’m a black girl singing at 98% white events and I get so much love. Its so humbling!
@Arteest1: I know your debut album ‘Big Red Box’ releases on May 31st. What is the motivation behind it and what can we expect from the project?
@Ihsanbilal: Expect a different sound not only as a whole but each song is different. I have a song for every popular genre out there. But it’s going to give you an alternative R&B feel. Its my box of different sounds. Its my present to the fans.
Ihsan Bilal - Big Band Theory - Single
@Arteest1: What do you want people to take from your music?
@Ihsanbilal: Empowerment is what I aim for. I like to be thought of as a motivational singer/ speaker. I want to make people feel good and touched when hearing my music which in essence is everyone’s music once its put out!
@Arteest1: I always ask people I talk to about their hopes for the future. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
@Ihsanbilal: I see big success in the near future. With that success my team that pushes me to keep going will receive that, DC being even bigger than what it is now. I can definitely see me touring the world, starting up a few charities/ organizations, opening up a school for the arts, and being even happier than I am now.
@Arteest1: What would you like to tell your current and prospective fans?
@Ihsanbilal: For anyone wanting to pursue anything in life always be professional about it, never give up, give it time to grow (no one is perfect), and never let anyone tell you that “You can’t”!!!
Thank-you all for your support and I hope to continue to motivate, inspire, and empower you all!!!
~IhsAn
Well, I can honestly say that you have the talent in you. As long as you keep the drive and the humility I can definitely see you going far in your musical pursuit. Keep up the positivity and remain true to yourself and your music and you will always have my support and the support of your fans. I appreciate you taking the time out to teach us a little about yourself and I hope to continue to hear great things from you in the future.
You Can Follow and keep up with Ihsan Bilal at:
http://www.youtube.com/user/ihsantv
http://www.ihsanbilalmuzik.com/
http://twitter.com/#!/ihsanbilal
http://ihsanbilalmuzik.tumblr.com/
http://www.reverbnation.com/ihsanbilal
You can download her latest single
“Big Band Theory” today on iTunes!
Downtown Silver Spring Whole Foods
I’ve been shopping at WholeFoods for about a year now. My girlfriend put me on to buying stuff from there. About a year ago I discovered they have some great organic lotions and soaps there. I really like their Fair Trade and non-GMO products and the atmosphere there is really earthy. Yeah, I’m somewhat of a hippie. Anywho, I recently went on one of my routine shopping trips to my local WholeFoods and came across something I had never seen there before. An entire wall of BoltHouse Farms beverages in all colors, flavors and sizes. As my eyes glanced from left to right at the ultra colorful outer packaging of the BoltHouse Farms bottles, I noticed a variety of delicious looking smoothie style drinks. They had “Strawberry Banana,” “Berry Boost,” “C-Boost,” “Blue Goodness,” and “Green Goodness.” The images of peaches, berries, kiwi, apples and a variety of other delicious fruit sent my taste buds into a frenzy. My curiosity to find out what one of them would taste like combined with a sudden urge to drink healthy brought my eyes to the “Green Goodness” fruit smoothie. While looking at the outside of the bottle I thought to myself, “It’s got kiwi and apples. It has to taste delicious.” So I spent the $4 and some change and bought the 32oz bottle of “Green Goodness” and went home.
Green Goodness
This is where it gets weird. When I got home I immediately shook the bottle up as its packaging instructed, twisted the green cap and took a sip. Suddenly, my taste buds were being taken through a roller coaster of flavors. I was tasting kiwi, apple, and oddly enough…grass. Yeah, that’s right. I tasted grass. And not like your ordinary run-of-the-mill grass. This was fresh cut yard grass. But it gets even stranger because I found that after the initial palette shock of drinking some kind of rabbit-brew, I actually liked the stuff. No, Not liked it. I loved it. I couldn’t put the bottle down. My mind started racing as it attempted to decipher the many other fruits and vegetables my tongue was tasting after every sip. After minutes of getting nowhere, I decided to actually read the bottle for the ingredients. And what I discovered blew my mind.
Inside every bottle of Green Goodness is: 3 Apples, 1/2 Pineapple, 1 Mango, 1 Banana, 1 Kiwi, Broccoli, Spinach, Green Tea, Barley Grass, Wheat Grass, Blue Green Algae, Echinacea, Garlic, Jerusalem Artichoke, Nova Scotia Dulce, Spirulina, Chlorella, Lemon Bioflavanoids, and tons of vitamins, good acids and other healthy stuff your body loves. So basically this stuff is some kind of miracle drink. Not only is it tasty, but it is very healthy and at 560 calories a bottle, you get a a little over a quarter of your daily calorie intake (based on a 2,000 calorie diet). And since it is 32 ounces, the equivalent of about 4 glasses (8 oz per glass), you can actually pour yourself a glass of it during lunch and save the rest for dinner. While this drink boasts a price tag of about $4 plus tax/bottle, I think It is well worth it considering its great taste and great health benefits. Plus as an added bonus, it is Gluten Free, Preservative Free, GMI free, and has no artificial colors or flavors. So yes ladies and gentleman, that incredible hulk looking drink really is incredible. I’m glad I stumbled across this weird stuff in WholeFoods. Now I’m going to try their other flavors. I hear their Vanilla Chai Tea is amazing!
