The Architect of My Happy Ending

First off, I love my people. I don't mean race or even humanity for that matter when referring to "my people", but rather my friends. They're AMAZING!!!

So late last night I'm on the phone with one of my favorite artist friends, Nakia Henry, whom you should remember from my most recent "Official Co-Sign". As we're discussing our music careers and the nature of being creative, she makes an incredibly insightful comment that borders on philosophical and downright genius. She says, "we're all creators in that we shape the world around us. Whether good or bad, we have a hand in every part of our daily lives." Now as poignant as that statement is, I already knew this and most introspective people do too. However, what followed, blew my mind. She began to differentiate being "a creator" vs "a creative". As artists, regardless of aesthetic, we are "creatives", and unlike "creators" we naturally assume accountability for the lives we lead. At least that's how I interpreted it, but let me explain further...

The difference isn't just accountability, but more so the fact that "creatives" relish, appreciate, and embrace the control over their world. This translates into and ultimately explains where our art comes from. We aggressively shape our universe through art! It also answers why we're moody when we're not proactively creating or honing our crafts. Deep right? I know....

So here's my half-ass attempt to make some sensible correlation between the post title and my new philosophical finding. Whether a "creative" or a beloved talentless counterpart, we both shape our own existences. On all accounts, we're the same. However, as a "creative", my happiness in life is directly tied to my music. In mathematical terms, if 1 + 1 = 2, then Shake/"creative" + music/(insert random art aesthetic) = happiness/Shaky in Wonderland. Excelsior!!!

If I've lost you at some point, don't worry because that was partly my intent. If you've extracted anything from it, even better. In great allegorical fashion, the moral of the story is, we shape our world. As Lyor Cohen would say, "If you're a rapper, rap!" Do whatever you love and own every moment of it because we are indeed the architects of our happy ending.

Now That Things Are In Working Order....

I figured I'd bless you with some old drawings. It's coming...It's return is imminent, and it will be better than ever. However, just to prepare you I present the throwbacks.

Pictured below: Attack of the Hater Pt. 1 & 2, My 1st drawing of Super Shake...Extra Thick, and PeeBee vs the world. All done back in '99-'00 with pencil, markers, and pen.

Super Hero Cartoons

So I'm watching Toon Disney, which I do regularly, because I've always loved cartoons. Maybe you see the correlation in me drawing now. Anyway, we all remember the dope X-Men cartoon from the early nineties that used to air on Fox right? Right. It actually followed the comic story lines and the art was dope. This is pre Batman the Animated series, which popularized the art style of block-like interpretations of our favorite heroes. Back to my point. So I'm watching Toon Disney, and I see commercials for an entire Marvel cartoon line-up with Iron Man, Ghost Rider, The Fantastic Four, Punisher, and even Nick Fury. Word....Nick Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D? Thing is, they all looked like they came from the same X-Men cartoon era. Have any of you seen these because I'm beginning to feel that I missed out on a huge part of my comic fanboy childhood. Does anyone know when these came out?

Just My Thoughts

This was done by my dude, Argo, who was also responsible for the FRESH art. He's been doing alot lately, and you've probably seen his work in commercials and different print ad campaigns. Bottom line, he's dope!!! If you'd like a larger view, simply click on the pic or scroll down the page. Thanks dude.

Just Wanted to Showcase...

the evolution of the "Fresh" artwork. Originally Kris, the graphic designer/artist, & I came up with the concept of soap detergent. Get it? "FRESH"! Actually he deserves more credit because he thought the video should be shot in a laundromat. Either way, here is an early and alternative version, plus the concept art for the back.

My Drawings...

I've been convinced by a friend that I need to draw more.... I dunno. Either way, I'll start posting my old drawings. This was done in 2000 with pencil, pen, and markers. Just a Shake piece

What Are YOU In It For?

So I was talking to my dude, Scratch, last night about art. As we were talking about his upcoming project, that will be huge btw, he paraphrased a Norman Rockwell quote. Mr. Rockwell said something along the lines of his work being SOULLESS because he did so much commissioned work during his career. As iconic as his work is, you can only assume he had gotten to a point where he either realized his art didn't have purpose, or he had given up his creative freedom in pursuit of money, or his art no longer spoke to its creator. The latter must be the toughest to deal with, because you only have yourself to answer to.

Well it got me thinking about a friend of mine who is actually quite successful and incredibly talented. Actually, he's one of the most creative minds I've ever come across. My only fear is, that this creative spirit will look back a few short years from now and feel like Mr. Rockwell.

I guess, long story short...FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS. Working towards your own goals will get you further than any corporation can. TRUST!!!

The Official Co-Sign Vol. 1

Ok, I'm an elitists. I don't like many people, and for the most part I run by myself. However, there are couple of talented individuals whose talents and vision I believe in. So starting today, I will periodically "put you on" through the 1st entry in....."The Official Co-Sign"

BK Cyph:

The evolution of street savvy is upon you. Dude, like many of us from the hood, "Never Sold Crack". If you can't co-sign that, go take 9 like 50 and keep trying to prove your street cred. Not only is the song ill, but it comes from a daring perspective that sheds light on experiences most "real" people can relate to. I've rocked with Cyph for quite some time and will continue doing so. I BELIEVE.... Check him out by clicking on the pic above or visiting www.myspace.com/bkcyph

Scritch and Scratch:

The dynamic duo of urban art is here. The tandem of Scritch and Scratch (what up Vee) push the conceptual boundaries of pop art while still keeping it (in)credible. They're on to something BIG. So when you're child's bedroom becomes covered in their artwork or your friend has vinyl figures from the duo on display, DON'T act like I ain't put you on. Be sure to check out their site either by clicking the pic or going to www.sritchandsrcatch.com/blog
officially CO-SIGNED!!!!

Throwback....

I'm about to start posting old pics of my soon to be resurrected comic....BEHOLD!!!