the legendary tod clifton

" . . . moving with an easy Negro stride out of the shadow into the light"

ally, rival, and opposite self of our unnamed protagonist, as well as my favorite character in the book - Tod Clifton seems to represent the anger and passion - and the internal polarity we currently face as young black men on the urban landscape

if you haven't had a chance to read the classic 'invisible man' by ralph ellison be sure to put it on your reading list!

Nerd Fresh

Get your nerd on, with this hook-up from NSF clothing, a label from out of Los Angeles. Add these snake print wingtips by Vans, and a slim fit pair of jeans, and your well on your way to being Mister Cool.

No. 1 Savile Row, Gieves & Hawkes

If you desire to don a fine, tailor made garment from these guys, you better make sure your passport is up to date, and your money correct.

Only a handful of men's tailors, can boast a prestigious Savile Row address, on London's world renown strip, and Mecca of mens tailored clothing. Gieves & Hawkes address is No. 1 Savile Row, which probably speaks volumes as to the notability of their craftsmanship, not to mention being in the business for two centuries.

The Can Am Spyder

I WANT ONE!

I WANT ONE!

I WANT ONE!

. . . did I forget to mention, I WANT ONE?

HOT OF THE PRESS:

A.M. Sunshine presents new flava from our favorite white boys: ALIFE

New York Times: Art Show Examines Gentrification in Harlem

Dionis Ortiz’s “Self Portrait” is part of a new art exhibition called "Evolution: The Changing Faces of Harlem" at Columbia University.Gentrification has been a very hot topic in Harlem, one of Manhattan largest neighborhoods, in recent years. To read the article in the Times, click on the link above. To see more of Dionis's work visit his website dionisortiz.com. (Photo by Orit Darwish/Columbia University)

Below other work by Ortiz (from top to bottom Biz Markie, & Angela Davis)

SOUL SISTAH: Erykah Badu

Ms. Badu is definitely one of the most creative female artist of this generation. Artistic compromise is not a option- at any price. And while her unpredictable musical direction keeps the masses guessing, and sometimes even puzzled, her unwavering loyalty to honest self expression, has won the hearts and minds of a very loyal following.

Exotic pets

Sorry Vick, but pit bulls are played. Nigerians have taken their pet game to a new level of gangster. Meet Mainasara the hyena. Hyaenas have one of the strongest set of jaws on the planet. (Photos taken by Pieter Hugo in Nigeria.)

Fatherhood

Malcom X with daughters Qubilah and Atallah Shabazz.