According to Daily Finance , VIBE Magazine is closes its doors. I was surprised when I heard this morning the urban lifestyle publication was closing. They set the standard in urban journalism and have helped launched the careers of artist, photographers, stylists and journalist. The magazine industry is getting smaller and smaller! Although I haven’t been an avid fan of the magazine in its recent years, it has been the mostcomprehensive coverage of urban life.

My favorite part of the mag was the 20-questions and the music reviews. I remember seeing Sean Paul on the cover, he’s the only Dancehall artist to grace the cover, although Rob Kenner has made sure they have some sort of Caribbean music coverage in the mag over the years.

In an exclusive interview with EbonyJet.com, VIBE founder Quincy Jones told writer Adrienne Samuels Gibbs that he was trying to buy back the magazine. He also stated that he would bring it back to life “albeit in a slightly different way.

“I’m trying to buy my magazine back now,” Jones told EbonyJet.com just moments ago during a telephone call to Jones’ London abode. “They just messed my magazine all up, but I’m gonna get it back. You better believe it, I’m’a take it online because print and all that stuff is over.”

Online is where it’s at, especially since a lot of advertisers are slashing budgets. What’s a writer to do? These days writing is not enough, the ability to multi-task to keep a steady pay check in publishing has become more and more difficult, but that’s another blog entry.

Popular urban blogger Necole Bitchie is reporting that the last issue is a cover with The Dream and Christina Milian. I hope not, this cover is a hot mess! Maybe this is why VIBE is folding SMH.

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It’s steaming up to be a hot musical summer! Machel Montano hooks up with Collie Buddz, another hot collab from the Soca King. We’re finally starting to see some action from Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Nas, as we have been hearing about Nas’ next album for a while now, and Sean Paul is about to squeeze off the Imperial Blaze with a lady So Fine.

(more…)

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While the summer hasn’t officially kicked in, your summer wardrobe doesn’t have to wait to see the hottest trends. From the runway, to the pavement and sandy beaches, summer’s must have essential is a romper.

Strolling the concrete jungle site seeing all day? Forever 21’s denim romper is perfect for an all day outing paired with a wedge heel for laid back daytime look.

Sunday brunch in the sultry this Express button front magenta jumpsuit is chic, paired with gold accessories and a pair of flats.

C&C Califorina’s Pima Cotton romper is great for pool side lounging with the ladies or the playful swimsuit cover up before taking a dip!

Sassy and comfortable, a playful romper, with the right accessories, is a great wear for keeping cool during the summer heat.

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I didn’t get to go to Hot 97’s Summer Jam (Truthfully I haven’t been in a few years) The last time I went there was no Reggae acts on the main stage, just the festival stage. Proud they stepped it up this year with Elephant Man, Mavado and Serani. The Dancehall fans were definitely in the building representing. Good times!

Here’s a clip of Mavado’s performance. Looks like the crowd was feelin’ him, Gwan Gully Gawd!

Elephant man is always fun to watch, hit after hit, with massive energy! Check out is Michael Jackson-esque Jacket.  Too funny!

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This is the final version of Kanye’s video for “Paranoid” with Rihanna as the leading lady (well the only lady, and a crazy one at that!) Not really a fan of the video, I’m sure it won’t be in heavy rotation and the driving scene reminds me of 1960’s flick Psycho. Nonetheless, here it is for your viewing pleasure.

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My ultimate vibe changes all the time, but I’m really feelin’ new singer Melanie Fiona. I know I’m a little late on her buzz, but I’m not the band wagon type, so I like evaluate an artist on my own. Girl’s got some vocals, not to mention she a fab Caribbean chick!

I love the acapella she does in this video. Raw & Uncut.

Melanie Fiona – Give It To Me Right

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Every Summer I look for a reason to go shopping! Shopping economically of course is the way to go during this recession so I’m always looking items that can be worn with multiple outfits. I’m a comfortable meets chic kinda girl that loves great accessories to dress up or dress down any outfit. As it warms up these are a few of the items on my wish list for my sizzlin’ summer.

1. Flat sandals – Flats are perfect for long walks while enjoying a day out. I still love the gladiator sandal and this nude color is perfect for multiple outfits. ( Ninewest , $69.99)

2. Tote – Picking a bright summery color that’s bold enough to make a statement and if you’re anything like me it can fit all your gadgets and then some on a daily basis. ( Forever 21 , $32.80)

3. Straw Hat – Straw hats are a classic, timeless accessory. Not only does it protect you from the sun but it give a chic look on any day. Not to mention looks great with curly or straight hair! ( Urban Outfitters , $28.00)

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Rihanna rocked this interesting ensemble at the Met Gala in NYC. From the neck up and the ankles down, she’s looking fierce, but she kind of reminds me of Danny Davito as the penguin in Batman. I guess everyone is allow a fashion faux pas once in a while.

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Fly Paper Blog got footage of Elephant Man performing in Ohio. An eager young lady couldn’t wait to approach him after the show and decided to get a early feel and rip up him expensive pants! Is it that serious?

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVRwJWvA1Bg]

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Dancehall artists willing to clean up lyrics [Jamaica Star]

Danielle gets X-Rated [Out-a-Road]

Jamaican Designer talks the industry [Fashion Over Style]

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