Rap Music Apologetics: A Case for the Michael Boltons of this World

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If Rap’s opponents could see the value it brings, how it keeps people moving, how it gets them excited, they might not be so quick to dismiss it.

Don’t, Can’t, Never… The Melancholy of Manhood

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Derek Bardowell believes the “can’t, don’t, never” culture of masculinity prevents men from challenging one another to be better men.

Respect: Happy Birthday, Kanye West [@kanyewest]

The multitalented Windy City representative was born on this day in 1977.

Chris Brown, Woody Allen and Other ‘Bad’ Men

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Joanna Schroeder wonders what we’re saying about masculinity when we talk about Chris Brown and domestic abuse.

Music: Brutha Gimel’s Spin City for January 24, 2012 [musical recommendations from @bruthagimel]

The wordsmith and turntablist presents musical recommendations every Tuesday afternoon (pretty much).

#musicmonday: the judy grimes and stefon show [free MP3 downloads]

There’s no kidding about the hottest music spot on the web, and Spud Webb is not involved in any case.

Music: Brutha Gimel’s Spin City for November 29, 2011 [musical recommendations from @bruthagimel]

The wordsmith and turntablist presents musical recommendations every Tuesday afternoon (pretty much).

#musicmonday: are you experienced? [free MP3 downloads]

The day after Jimi Hendrix’ birthday we present rock to rap, soul to something else, all free for your digital life.

#musicmonday: simply poetry [free MP3 download]

Coldplay to Lil Wayne, alt rock and hip hop and neo soul, everything in between. Free MP3s for you to download, no questions asked.

#musicmonday: here comes justice [free MP3 downloads]

Evanescence to Dawn Richard? Ne-Yo to N.O.R.E.? Spanning a breadth of musical styles, here’s free music for your life!