Angela Bassett Radiates Spring Star Power At “Olympus Has Fallen” Premier
March 22nd, 2013 by NigelOn Monday, March 18th the premier of Filmdistric’s “Olympus Has Fallen” took place at the ArcLight Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, California. Hitting the red carpet was the beautiful Angela Bassett who was serving bright colors, wearing strapless knee length yellow embellished dress, and a pair of Edmundo Castillo ‘Debi D’Orsay’ sandal.
Image Courtesy: Getty Images
The single sole metallic open toe sandal has a d’Orsay style back with a 4 1/4″ heel. The Italian made shoe has leather lining and sole and a padded insole. Unfortunately the silver pair is unavailable for purchase but you can snag the Pewter pair here, or the Gold pair here. If your loving the silver you can get similar Edmundo Castillo’s here and here.
Angela accessorized with a pair of stud earring, a sliver and white cuff, a silver statement clutch, and her edgy short hair cut. We love how well this color complements her skin tone, hugs her body, and the expose neck line because Ms. Bassett looks amazing.
Divas its time to sound off about this look. Are we feeling Angela Bassett’s red carpet look or could she have stepped it up a notch. How would you style this yellow strapless dress or would you pass on wearing this garment. Sound off below.
DJ Kiss Rocks Peter Pilotto To The 24th Annual GLAAD Media Awards
March 18th, 2013 by NigelOver the weekend the 24th Annual GLAAD Media Awards took place in New York City, celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community and their work in the fields of TV, news, and film. In attendance was one of our favorite socialites and DJ’s who known for keeping a dance floor jumping. JaKissa Taylor-Semple, also known as DJ Kiss, attended the GLAAD Media awards in a hologram pumps, a black leather skirt and a Peter Pilotto peplum top.
The multi colored Peter Pilotto top is from their Spring 2013 collection. A structured bodice with cutout details is accompanied with a ruffled silk-twill peplum. The shirt is lined and a zip fasting on the back.
Peplums have been huge trend for the past couple of seasons because the silhouette works on every body type. If you plan on incorporating a peplum top in your wardrobe for spring make sure you go for a slim fitting bottom like a slim fitting trouser, leather pant, pencil skirt or a skinny jean.
This particular top can be found at net-a-porter for $1,540 dollars.
Image Courtesy: Because Im Fabulous
Divas we’d like to know what you think of DJ Kiss look for the GLAAD Awards, was this a hit or a miss for the red carpet. After seeing DJ Kiss in a peplum top would you try wearing one of your own, would you even wear this top or is the peplum movement old and played out. Let us know below.
9 Must-See, Eye Opening Documentaries
March 16th, 2013 by Lifestyle StaffSince Beyonce’s Life is But a Dream documentary hit the airwaves in February, I’ve been wondering what other celebrity documentaries would also give a better understanding. Documentaries give watchers a more realistic look into the lives of people, of thoughts behind ideas, and facts about topics viewers may not have come across otherwise. Below is a list of researched documentaries worth watching. Some are about celebrities, others about social issues and culture. All are available on Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, and/or iTunes. Get into it!
Brooklyn Boheme
During the 1980s and 90s, the Fort Greene area of Brooklyn was booming with talent. The black arts movement was underway with filmmaker Spike Lee, comedian Chris Rock, actress Rosie Perez, among other artists creating a community and paving their ways in the art world. Brooklyn Boheme tells the story of these creators.
Why We Laugh: Black Comedians on Black Comedy
The film chronicles the story of Black comedy, its roots, nature, and what social and political stances inform it. From minstrels and ‘Amos ‘n Andy’ to ‘In Living Color’ and the Original Kings of Comedy, it is all discussed. There is commentary from established comedians and clips from different periods of significance in comedy.
Harvest of Shame
The documentary was produced by CBS in 1960 as a part of a series by broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow. In Harvest of Shame, Murrow exposed the plight of America’s farm workers. It is interesting to see some of the issues of farm workers today mirroring that of those over 50 years ago. (Full Documentary)
The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975
Through the lens of Swedish filmmakers, viewers get a look at the Black Power Movement. In clips Huey P. Newton, Angela Davis, and Stokely Carmichael talk about what the movement means. There is also commentary by Erykah Badu and Harry Belafonte, among others.
Being Elmo
Elmo is an icon, but not many people know who is behind the puppet and makes him come to life. Kevin Clash is that man. In Being Elmo, Clash’s story is told. Viewers will learn how he got to where he is now and created the persona of Elmo.
Jean-Michael Basquiat: The Radiant Child
At the age of 27, the artist Jean-Michael Basquiat left the earth. In this film, Tamra Davis brings an unreleased interview of the charismatic and controversial artist. The rise and fall of Basquiat is seen in the film, giving viewers a better understanding of the man behind the paintings.
A Man’s Story
Celebrated menswear designer Ozwald Boateng gives a look into is life as a designer, tailor to Hollywood’s A-list, superstar, and family man. A Man’s Story goes to the very heart of what Boateng has spent an entire career trying to distil: “what it is to be a man.”
Where I’m From: Jay-Z Barclays Center Documentary
The Barclays Center is Brooklyn’s baby, in a sense. It’s only right that the borough’s own, Jay-Z, performs there. In Where I’m From, Jay-Z takes viewers on a behind the scene journey of preparing for opening concerts at the arena. (Full Documentary)
Also recommended: Fade to Black
Tyson
A mixture of original interviews, archival footage, and photographs shed light on the life experiences of Mike Tyson. Looking at the film may allow viewers to gain a better understanding of the professional boxer.
Which documentaries will you be checking out? Have any recommendations?
Women’s History Month: Celebrating Black Women in Television
March 15th, 2013 by TiffanyBefore recent portrayals of powerful, talented Black women on television, entertainment was known to breed stereotypes. There were very few roles in the first few decades of television’s existence that didn’t marginalize Black women until the late 1960′s. Thus, African American women playing a leading non-stereotypical role was so rare they could be counted on one hand, until the late 1980′s and early 1990′s. These women have made their mark in television and have opened the doors for some of the best shows with a leading Black actress on television today. In honor of National Women’s History Month, we celebrate these women from then and now.
Then…
Diahann Carroll
In 1968, Diahann Carroll starred in the ground breaking series “Julia.” Heralded as being the first series to star a black woman in a non-stereotypical role, “Julia” produced 86 episodes and Carroll earned herself a golden globe. The first major breakthrough for African American women in television.
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Pam Grier
In the 70′s, Pam Grier played a character that also went against the typical African American female archetype. In 1974, Grier starred as the title character in Foxy Brown, a sexy yet independent Black woman who was capable of running down criminals and saving the day. Another ground breaking role for Black women in television.
Phylicia Rashad
The 1980′s and ’90′s saw the birth of the black upper-middle class in entertainment. In The Cosby Show, Phylicia Rashad played Claire Huxtable, the epitome of a strong, dignified, and highly intelligent black woman that rarely was seen on television before and was noticeably absent. Even after The Cosby Show it was several years before we saw another Black woman playing a lead role outside of the media-bred stereotypes, but Rashad definitely broke the mold for a new generation to come.
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And Now…
Jada Pinkett-Smith
Jada Pinkett-Smith has been one of the most popular Black actresses since the early ’90′s. She has appeared in more than 20 films in a variety of genres and in 2009 created her leading television role in the TNT medical drama Hawthorne, of which she was executive producer. Although it was canceled after three seasons, it was definitely the first show of its kind with a leading Black actress, opening doors for many more to come.
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Taraji P. Henson
Taraji Henson has proved her versatility in a variety of movies like Baby Boy, I Can Do Bad All By Myself, The Family That Preys, Four Brothers and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Many may not know, however, that she has also appeared on many television shows before landing a major leading role in 2011 on the CBS crime-suspense series Person of Interest. Henson was a cast member on Lifetime Television’s The Division and ABC‘s Boston Legal and guest-starred on several television shows, such as the WB Television Network‘s Smart Guy, the Fox series House, and CBS‘s CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. She has proved that hard work and persistence do pay off!
Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington has played almost every role imaginable from a struggling single mother in Save the Last Dance, a lesbian in Spike Lee‘s She Hates Me, a wife in Ray, a slave in Django, and finally to our favorite professional political fixer in Scandal. ABC’s Scandal was the first time in more than 30 years that a television show starring a black actress appeared on a major television network. Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope, portrays a powerful woman who runs a crisis management firm that the political elite trust to solve their problems, including murders and extramarital affairs. Based on the real life fixer, Judy Smith, Washington brings an edge to television that has never before existed.
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Shonda Rhimes
We cannot celebrate the amazing Black women on-screen without recognizing the powerful Black women that work off-screen creating more opportunities for other women of color. Producer, screenwriter, and director Shonda Rhimes has taken over television, giving us some of the best shows networks have seen in decades including Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, and Scandal. Rhimes is a Golden Globe winner and was also named Time Magazine’s “100 people who help shape the world”. She continues to shape the television world as we know it.
These women have broken through barriers, set new standards and proven that African American women, too, can be successful in the entertainment industry and any other field chosen. These breakthroughs have also allowed others like Tyler Perry to make his mark in television, by featuring Black women as his leading characters. These women have without a doubt changed the face of television, opened several doors, and changed many perceptions in the process!
Where do you think television would be without these women from then and now? Who else are some of your favorite Black women of television?
WEtv Hosts a Premiere Party for Braxton Family Values (Season 3)
March 14th, 2013 by SimonePremiere Party for Braxton Family Values
Braxton Family Values is back for a third season which will premiere tonight (March 14) on WEtv.
To celebrate the launch of a new season the Braxton’s arrived on the red carpet at STK Meatpacking restaurant in New York then went off to party with a packed house of friends and fans. Divas and Dorks caught up with one of the most outspoken members of the family Tamar and her husband Vince. They were both glowing after revealing earlier in the day that they were expecting their first child.
Both Tamar and Vince seemed overjoyed as they made their way through the crowd posing for pictures and accepting congratulatory handshakes and well wishes.
What is Tamar looking forward to the most about being a mom? “I’m looking forward to family time with Vince.”
Everyone wanted to know which one of her sisters was already going into protective auntie mode. According to Tamar that would be, “Ms. Toni Braxton, she is on team too much,” she said. Then she added, “[Toni is already] talking about my shoes.”
When asked about the sex of the baby Vince said, “We don’t want to find out until it comes.”
Vince shared how happy he was while showering his wife with compliments. “She is everything. She is a beautiful woman, intelligent and smart and I’m so lucky to have her as my wife.” In regards to supporting his wife and her career he said, “We’re supposed to love each other and support each other. That’s what life is about.”
Famous friends Lil’ Kim and Angela Simmons also came out to show their support. Flat screen televisions were spread throughout the venue showing clips of the Braxton’s show. Party goers took turns making silly faces in a custom photo booth. The crowd danced to a mixture of R&B hits including some crowd favorites from Toni Braxton as they sipped on signature cocktails. There were even cake pops made with ingredients inspired by each of the sisters.
It’s going to be another crazy season filled with family battles, touching moments and more catch phrases from our favorite sisters. Get your life, as Tamar would say and don’t miss the first episode of the season three tonight.
Season three opens with Toni, Towanda, Traci and Trina on a trip to Italy sans Tamar who is back home touring for own her spin-off show “Tamar & Vince” which will also be on WEtv as well as promoting her single “Love & War”. Discussion of her absence is not without the side-eyes and comments from her sisters who feel like Tamar may be growing apart from the family due to her recent success.
Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up in season three:
Premiere Party for Braxton Family Values
Premiere Party for Braxton Family Values
Premiere Party for Braxton Family Values
And for more photos of the event check out the behind the scenes gallery below…
First Lady Michelle Obama Covers April’s Issue Of VOGUE Magazine
March 14th, 2013 by Fashion StaffMichelle Obama covers vogue magazine
First Lady Michelle Obama looks stunning as the cover girl of April’s Issue of VOGUE Magazine. In April’s issue FLOTUS talks about marriage, family and how she and President Obama make their differences work for them. On newsstands March 26th you’ll spot the FLOTUS in looks from Reed Krakoff, Michael Kors and more.
Check out a few released photos below…
First Lady Obama on making family her priority:
Our job is, first and foremost, to make sure our family is whole. You know, we have small kids; they’re growing every day. But I think we were both pretty straightforward when we said, `Our No. 1 priority is making sure that our family is whole,’”
President Obama explains their differences:
“We’re very different people, and some of that’s temperamental, some of it is how we grew up. Michelle grew up in a model nuclear family: mom, dad, brother. I had this far-flung family — father left at a very young age, a stepfather who ended up passing away as well. My mother was this wonderful spirit, and she was adventurous but not always very well organized.”
First Lady Obama on what she’s learned from President Obama:
“Well, patience and calm I’m borrowing. Or trying to mirror. I’ve learned that from my husband, that sort of, you know, ability to not get too high or too low with changes and bumps in the road. To do more breathing in and just going with it. I’m learning that every day. And to the extent that I’ve made changes in my life, it’s just sort of stepping back and seeing a change not as something to guard against but as a wonderful addition. . . that can make life fun and unexpected.”
Vanessa Williams, Cicely Tyson on the Broadway Play The Trip to Bountiful
March 14th, 2013 by SimoneThe Trip to Bountiful, originally released in 1953 as a teleplay on NBC, has now been revived featuring an all Black cast. This April The Trip to Bountiful will be taking a trip to Broadway, starring Emmy winner Cicely Tyson, Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding Jr. (“Jerry Maguire,” “Red Tails”), Emmy Award nominee Vanessa Williams (“Ugly Betty,” “Desperate Housewives”), and Tony Award nominee Condola Rashad (Lifetime’s “Steel Magnolias,” Broadway’s Stick Fly).
This amazing story is about Carrie (Cicely Tyson) who lives in a cramped apartment with her son and daughter-in-law and wants to make one last trip home to Bountiful, Texas. Carrie’s son (Cuba Gooding Jr.) doesn’t think his elderly mother is strong enough to make the trip and her daughter-in-law (Vanessa Williams) doesn’t care for her very much, often making her feel like an imposition. However, her motive for not supporting the trip is based on the issue that she is surviving off of Carrie’s pension check. When Carrie escapes to make the trip home it sets an adventure in motion that has its serious and comedic moments, leaving you with a different prospective of the concept “home”.
The cast of The Trip to Bountiful with Director Michael Wilson and Horton Foote’s Daughter Hallie Foote
All of the stars including director Michael Wilson and Hallie Foote, the daughter of the playwright as well as executor of his estate, gathered at Sardi’s Restaurant in New York City to talk to the press face to face about the production. We got some face time with the divas of the show including Cicely Tyson, Vanessa Williams and Condola Rashad as they shared their favorite moments and talked about their roles in the play!
Up first, the youngest member of the cast but not the least talented by far, Condola Rashad. In The Trip to Bountiful, Rashad plays the part of Thelma, better known as the “girl on the bus”. Rashad’s character meets Carrie as she is on her journey home- two women of contrasting ages going on two separate journeys. However, in the time that they sit next to each other on the bus they form a brief yet remarkable bond. That bond seems to continue even off stage when Rashad and Tyson are not in character.
Condola Rashad
“Cicely reinforces everything I have grown to know [about acting]. As long as you are honest and in the moment it will work,” says Rashad. When looking at the way that her character interacts with Tyson’s she doesn’t think she differs from her character in real life. “My character treated her as an adult. When I was a teenager and I would volunteer at nursing homes, I was respectful of people of a certain age not only just because of their age but in the way that allows them to have their freedom and decide what they want to do. My character doesn’t limit Carrie, she respects her journey.”
Cicely Tyson has not been on a Broadway stage since 1983 in her role for The Corn is Green, yet the iconic actress is the recipient of countless awards and is a living legend in her field. Sitting across from Tyson, her demeanor was calm and collected. You could feel the warmth of her spirit but there was also an air of regality that surrounded her.
When asked what she did to prepare for the role Tyson shared her approach to playing this character. “I went to Texas because I wanted to know what was it about this place that this woman needed to go back to. You cannot project anything about anybody unless you know their culture. You have to smell, feel, taste and breathe in order for you to honestly project that character. My method has always been to go where that person stems from.”
Tyson also speaks to the lesson about the way we treat and view our elders, which flows through the undercurrent of every interaction in this production. “One of the things that touches me about this character is that she is an elder and today there is such little respect for the elderly. They are tossed aside and put in a home and disregarded by family members and/ or close friends. I want the audience to leave with a greater appreciation of what we have to offer.” In essence, this is a role that Tyson always wanted to play. In an admiration for the movie adaption of the teleplay, Tyson told her agent immediately “to get me my Trip to Bountiful.” She was referring to one last great role which turned out to be none other than a role in this production. When talking about the kismet way in which she was led to this role Tyson jokingly says, “Be careful what you ask for, because you will get it.”
Vanessa Williams Cicely Tyson and Condola Rashad
Vanessa Williams‘ most recent stint was on the show 666 Park Avenue, which was unfortunately short lived. Not long after, however, she found out that she was not going to continue the run on the small screen after she’d gotten the call that she will be getting a chance to show off her skills yet again on the big stage. Her character Jessie Mae makes no effort to hide her annoyance with her mother-in-law Carrie, thus there is a constant conflict between them. As Williams puts it “Mother Watts relishes the past. Jessie May loves the city. She couldn’t care less about the past. The past is too painful. Jessie may is forward in terms of her process and her intention. Mother Watts is always going back. Jessie Mae thinks that acknowledging the past is morbid. Mother Watts thinks that not acknowledging the past is unfeeling. Who’s right who’s wrong?”
Vanessa Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Cicely Tyson
When asked about what it was like to work with Tyson, Williams referenced a time when she was just a child watching Tyson playing Jane Pittman on television “Now we get to share a stage,” she says. “I’m living my dream.” Of course it can be surreal to work with someone you look up to. Williams adds, “I kind of have an out of body experience when I’m arguing with Cicely Tyson while we’re character.” Because we are proud to be divas, I couldn’t help but ask Williams how she felt about the extravagant diva qualities of her character. Her reply was that in comparison to the other characters she has played including Wilhelmina on Ugly Betty, she sees Jessie Mae as more of a wannabe. “Wilhelmina was a Diva. Jessie Mae aspires to be a diva. She is always reading her movie magazines and trying to do the hairstyles she sees in them.” In response to being often cast as the in the roles of the headstrong diva, Williams says, “The characters may not always be likable but they are interesting.”
From talking one on one with each of these women, you could feel the strong connection each of them had to the overall meaning of the story in The Trip to Bountiful. From the passion they each had in the telling of the story it is clear that they will bring the same exuberance to each of their roles on the stage. This is a play that holds relevance to anyone regardless of background or age and is definitely a must-see!
Previews for The Trip to Bountiful begin on March 30 and will officially open April 23, running for a 14- week engagement at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre, located at 124 W. 43rd St. Tickets range from $37 to $142 and are currently available on Telecharge.com.
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy On ‘Today Show’ In Alexander McQueen
March 13th, 2013 by ChristenTamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ’Today Show’ Alexander McQueen
It was rumored that Tamar was expecting when she appeared on 106 & Park a few weeks ago, but countless denials came to a head when she posted the picture of her flat stomach on Instagram. Well now, weeks later the truth is out!After months of speculations and rumors, this morning Tamar Braxton confirms on “Good Morning America” that she and husband of 5 years, Vince Herbert, are having a baby!
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ‘Today Show’ AlexanderMcQueen
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ’Today Show’ Alexander McQueen
During the Braxton Family Values media tour, Tamar told the audience this morning, “I have a love on top. I’m pregnant.” ”I feel great and greedy at the same time,” Braxton added. “This is the most I’ve eaten, ever.” And she also took to Instagram to post cute pics of her new baby bump.
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ‘Today Show’ AlexanderMcQueen
The mommy-t0-be has a lot to celebrate. The new season of “Braxton Family Values” starts tomorrow on WeTV. She and Vince are already filming their new season of “Tamar & Vince.” And the “Love & War” singer just signed to EPIC Records.
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy On ‘Today Show’ In Alexander McQueen
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy On ‘Today Show’ In Alexander McQueen
tamar braxton pregnant alexander mcqueen
Rocking the $1,670 Alexander McQueen Honeycomb Bee Mini-Dresss (in white), Tamar isn’t the only celeb pairing Alexander McQueen with their baby fever. Nicki Minaj was spotted just last week wearing the same dress (in black) with a very special accessory as well.
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy On ‘Today Show’ In Alexander McQueen
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Alexander McQueen Honeycomb Cap-Sleeve Midi Dress, Nude/Black |
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ‘Today Show’ AlexanderMcQueen
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ‘Today Show’ AlexanderMcQueen
Tamar Braxton Confirms Pregnancy ‘Today Show’ AlexanderMcQueen
Congratulations Tamar!
Kelly Rowland Rocks Alexander Wang And Marc Jacobs in “Kisses Down Low” Video
March 13th, 2013 by NigelKelly Rowland wears Alexander Wang Marc Jacobs
Kelly Rowland has been on a roll lately in the world of fashion and entertainment. The latest Kelly buzz is new video for her hit single “Kisses Down Low“, which premiered this week on MTV and online. Kelly’s new colorful video featured some amazing fashion choices including a pair of white ‘Aline’ sandals from Alexander Wang‘s Spring 2013 Runway collection. The shoes were paired with a white sleeveless fringe dress and a well lit pink room that made the all white pop look pop.
Kelly Rowland wears Alexander Wang Marc Jacobs
Kelly Rowland wears Alexander Wang Marc Jacobs
Alexander Wang’s Aline high strap leather cage heels with the removable strap have been pretty popular lately as Rihanna rocked the same sandal with all Alexander Wang everything for her performance on X Factor UK last year.
Also in the video Ms. Rowland rocks bright pink lip with a top from Marc Jacobs Resort 2013 collection. The sequin Marc Jacobs garment is a combination of both runway looks below, the color from the left look paired with the silhouette of the look on the right.
Kelly is also featured in a number of fun wigs, including white Marilyn Monroe inspired number and one short red wig that reminded us of her days as a member of Destiny Child. If you haven’t seen the official video for “Kisses Down Low” you can check it out (in its entirety) below.
Divas what do you think about the overall fashion in the video, are we loving or hating Kelly’s looks. Leave some feedback below and let us know.
Prince To Close Out SXSW With Samsung And You Could Be There Too
March 12th, 2013 by ChristenYou’ve heard the rumors and we can finally confirm that it’s TRUE. SXSW will get a dose of purple rain, in the form of Prince Rogers Nelson. Today Samsung confirmed that Prince will perform at its Saturday night closing party.
Prince SXSW
“Having Prince in Austin at his first SXSW show will truly be a one night only experience that our Samsung Galaxy owners and friends will remember for years to come,” Todd Pendleton, Samsung’s chief marketing officer.
Among Samsung’s digital activations is a popular battery swap where people could tweet #PowerOn and their location to @SamsungMobileUS to receive a new fully charged battery from a bike messenger. At the company’s main daytime lounge — Samsung Galaxy Experience (open 12 to 6 p.m.) — people could make personalized T-shirts and buttons using the S Note. A Music Hub station allows guests to try Music Hub, listen to SXSW artists on it and S Beam songs to their devices.
While the private Saturday night show will wrap up Samsung’s heavy #TheNextBigThing tech and entertainment presence at SXSW, it will be tied to its TecTile Wall initiative in which owners of NFC-enabled Galaxy devices could tap tiles to unlock rewards. Want to see Prince LIVE? Samsung will choose 250 TecTile Wall participants to attend the intimate show. If you’re in Austin, you may want to get out there and start using those TecTile walls today.
Prince caps off Samsung’s busy week of musical acts that spans Interactive, Film and Music, including The Roots, Band of Horses, Talib Kweli, and Mayer Hawthorne. With the Samsung Unpacked 2013 event taking place this Thursday, it’s safe to say that this week has already been Samsung’s Best Week Ever!
