Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

I was all set to write a lengthy post today about not only my complicated thoughts on the passing of legendary entertainer Michael Jackson but the smug, flip dismissals and grave-dancing that has popped up on Twitter, Facebook and the like because of his questionable association with children. However, Teresa Jusino has already beaten me to it, posting on the Revolving Door Commune Blog a very eloquent, heartfelt and above all, fair assessment of Jackson's life and death. Considering that there seems to be a "yer either for us or ag'in us" mentality concerning Jackson (on both sides of the coin) infecting the internet today, I really think she's nailed the middle ground that I wish more people would take into account. No matter what he did (and believe me, I'm not making excuses for his alleged behavior), it's shitty to dance on the man's grave before the body's even cold.

In any case, I couldn't agree more with what Teresa has to say.

To Mourn or Not to Mourn? - Revolving Door Commune Blog

The Day Hip-Hop Died

Ladies and gentlemen,

After many years of being inundated with sub-par and inexplicably popular acts that threatened the very livelihood of hip-hop (starting around the time that Master P hit the scene up through the Black Eyed Peas, Lil Wayne and T.I.) and the small but talented line of defense determined to keep some life in it (from the Roots and De La Soul, on up through the entire Def Jux roster, and most recently Q-Tip's The Renaissance), it is time to officially declare hip-hop dead.

Presenting... well, I don't know who these guys are but... oh god, just watch:

Decisions Decisions - live from Nashville

City planner makes a subtle statement about a hot button issue?

The Wise Man Has the POWER!

I find this particularly hysterical in light of the fact that I can't seem to stop listening to this song recently.

Special thanks to Adam Robbins for informing me that this exists.

The Majesty of New York City - live from 35th and 6th

I spent the whole day in the college library working on projects... and was greatly rewarded for my time.