Record Collection #5: Barry Manilow "LIVE" 1977

Believe me, there was a point in time when you wouldn't catch me listening to Manilow's music. But after I got one taste, I became addicted! I'm currently playing this double able set as I get ready for my NYE.

What makes this album great is listening to an artist perform well live and audiences on a record always make me feel as though I'm at the show with everyone.

P.S.
Did you know that the New York native had a hand in the State Farm and Band-Aid jingles that still play today?

(Fav Songs: "Why Don't We Live Together," "New York City Rhythm," "V.S.M.," "This One's For You," "Weekend in New England," "Could it be Magic/ Mandy," "It's Just Another New Year's Eve," and "I Write The Songs."Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Ramona's Top 10 of 2010

Here's a list of the Top 10 things that I will associate with 2010--in no specific order.

1. Finishing Rutgers! (Here's a picture of myself and friend Frances on our last day.)

2.  Being a Groom's Lady in my cousin Alejandro's wedding.

3.  My two-week stay in Guyana.  (My cousin Rhonda and I in GT.)

4.  Getting into the Zac Posen for Target event as a "guest on the list," buying this beautiful dress, then wearing it to a good friend's wedding before it actually hit stores.

5.  Sitting down and interviewing the amazing Pete Rock for an NJPAC event.

6.  Seeing M.I.A. perform not once, but TWICE.  The first time was in the summer at HARD (if you're a web head, you know how that turned out).  But the second time at Brooklyn Bowl was amazing!! It was a free show, I got to dance on stage with her, and when she crowd surfed her butt was on my face. LOL

7.  Meeting my boo, aka, my *Snoop voice* neffew, bka Baby Jackson.

8.  Interning at SELF Magazine.

9. Becoming a cooking and baking queen thanks to Bethenny Frankel Hoppy. (Pictured are her Not So Red Velvet Cupcakes.)

10.  And having the time of my life at the Michael Jackson "MICHAEL" listening party.

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New Fav Music Vid: "Rolling in the Deep" Adele

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Mtv News Shares the Latest on JT, Em, K-O and MJ

1.  Justin Timberlake has a new "club-ready tune [...] reportedly produced by the Neptunes."  The single "Take You Down," has leaked onto the web, and although I haven't heard it yet, I love when the 29-year-old singer joins forces with the comic producers.

2.  Another song leaked onto the internet, "Difficult" by Eminem, pays tribute to his former group mate and best friend Proof.  The song is described as being "somber" and during Em's sober time, I'm sure the song is purely heartfelt.

3.  Guess which married couple is getting their own reality show?  Why Khloe Karadashian Odom and her L.A. Lakers hubby Lamar Odom of course.  What more can you expect when Lamar signs to his mother-in-law's  (Kris Jenner) management team?  I'm telling you, the Kardashian, Jenner, and now Odom clan are going to rule the reality world!

4.  And lastly, prosecutors in the Michael Jackson and Dr. Conrad Murray case believe that Dr. Murray's legal team will say, "Jackson self-administered lethal dose of propofal," and thus caused the singer to die.  Everyone who knows me well are highly aware of my love for MJ, and to be honest, I hate to relay this story because all I want is for his spirit to bathe in peaceful bliss.  But on another note, the truth needs to be revealed and I'm sure there are fans who want to know what is going on with this case.  Murray's court trial is set to begin on January 4th.

 

mtv.com

 

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Philanthropy: Donate to Keep A Child Alive

Make your donations here.

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Rihanna and Kate Moss Swap Careers?

The answers are "no," and a "maybe."  WWD reports that Rihanna, 22,  tweeted that she was having dinner with  Topshop owner Sir Phillip Green, former American Idol judge Simon Cowell and others in Barbados a few days ago.  This sparked rumors that she would be the new face of a Topshop line a la Kate Moss, however the dinner was simply casual.

Although the Topshop collaboration with Moss is winding down, Green says the two will continue to work together on capsule collections in the future.  But don't feel sorry for the 36-year-old supermodel; rumors are swirling that Moss has now turned her eye to singing.  She has lent her voice to other artists' tracks, but now she wants to put out her own album.

And don't forget, Rihanna may not be coming out with a clothing line, but her fragrance, Reb'l Fleur is set to hit stores early in 2011.

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Urban Outfitters NYE Dresses

Still looking for that perfect dress to ring in the new year?  UO has some great options that can fill everyone's style palette, but here are ramona.onsugar's favorites!

SILENCE & NOISE GOLDEN RING DRESS

$79.00

 

SPARKLE & FADE ONE-SHOULDER DRESS
online only!

$59.00

 

S LOVES C BY SPRING & CLIFTON OFF-SHOULDER SWEATER DRESS

$58.00

 

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Top e-tailers of Holiday 2010

WWD has reported that online retailers made out exceedingly this well this holiday season.  And let's face it, in a time when there are so many options, it's always easier to order a gift (certificate) from the comfort of your own home.  Who were the top e-tailers you ask?  Amazon, Netflix, QVC, avon, llbean, Newegg and apple.

Image found on Opinionated Mommy
.

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Coach Introduces Colette

Coach has unveiled a new line of bags.  With over a handful of styles to choose from, this series prides itself on being crafted from "buttery leathers and sateen fabrics."  ramona.onsugar loves the Colette Elevated Leather Hobo in Brass/Gold ($328).  But you can head over to the site and check out which ones are your faves!

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Hot Flash: Natalie Portman is Engaged and Expecting

Portman, 29, is engaged to choreographer Benjamin Millepied and they are expecting their first child together.  Awards season stunt?  Either way, ramona.onsugar loves the actress and we wish her nothing but the best.

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Books: Oprah Presents "Master Class"

At the top of the new year, Oprah Winfrey's OWN Network will be showcasing the "Master Class." It's a series featuring Maya Angelou, Simon Cowell, Jay-Z, Lorne Michaels, Condeoleeza Rice, Diane Sawyer and Winfrey.  Handpicked by the mogul, the "Master Class" will showcase their lives that has lead them to the spotlight that they bask in today.

According to Winfrey, "Master Class started with Sidney Poitier and Maya Angelou, both of whom I've spent hours on the phone with over the years, just listening and taking notes. More than any other people on the planet, Maya and Sidney are my teachers. I wanted to share the life stories of these two wise thought leaders—and many others I admire—because I believe any life well lived can inspire our own."

I've had the luxury of getting my hands on this book, and from what I've read so far,  it displays very touching and interesting inside stories of the people we only see as media figures.  This book strips away the layers of diamond chains, black t-shirts, make-up and button-up tops, and show us real people--it shows us, us.

 

 

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New Fav Music Vid: "Raise Your Glass" Pink

Here's to 2010.

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Get The Look: Angelina Jolie at "The Tourist" Photo-call in Madrid, Spain

1.--Crop Cable Knit Sweater (Forever 21, $24); 2.--Women's Plus Long Layering Tank (Old Navy, $12); 3.--Lurex T-Back Tank (Wet Seal, $6); 4.--Lace Shrug (Jean Paul Gaultier, $325); 5.--Black Liquid Eye Liner (Boots No7 at Target, $8); 6.--Women's Ponte Knit Trousers (Old Navy, $34); 7.--Sheer Lace Shrug (Forever 21, $6); 8.--Nude Perfect Lipstick (Boots No7 at Target, $9); 9.--Snake Cuff (Gorjana at shopbob.com, $325); 10.--Zabrina Round Toe Pump (Lauren by Ralph Lauren at endless.com, $98).

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Hot Flash: Singer Teena Marie Dead

Marie, 54, was found dead in her home by her daughter the day after Christmas and the cause of her passing is unknown at the moment.

Marie started her career in the 1970s when she signed to Motown Records then eventually signed to Epic in the 80's. She will mostly be remembered for her 80's hits like "Square Biz," and "Lovergirl," just to name a few.  Along with her music of soul and R&B, her tumultous relationship with Rick James will also hold a place in music history.

The LA Times has posted an interview with the singer done during 1980's.  It touches upon Marie wishing that she was "colorless" and "not trying to fool anybody" with her black soul inside of her white body.  Touche Ole.

 

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Record Collection: Barbra Streisand "A Christmas Album" 1967

This holiday album has its upbeat tunes and its mellow sounds. But I found myself drawn to the songs that are
dramatic with choirs, strings and Streisand's classic vocal ranges.

(Favorite Songs: "My Favorite Things," "I Wonder as I Wander," "The Lord's Prayer")

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Record Collection: Diana Ross & the Supremes "Merry Christmas" 1965

Motown's leading ladies come together for a relaxing and warm holiday album by putting that Hitsville touch on both classic and new songs.

(Favorite Songs "Born of Mary," "My Favorite Things," "Twinkle Twinkle Little Me")Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Record Collection: Various Artists "A Very Special Christmas" 1987

AVSC was a series of holiday albums that came out for some years and featured the hottest artists of the moment. This edition was the fisrt release from the series and featured Whitney Houston, Stevie Nicks, and Bon Jovi--just to name a few. The artwork on these albums were done by famed 80's street artist Keith Harring; but what made this series extra special was that over the years it raised more than $100M for the Special Olympics.

(Favorite Songs: Eurythmics "Winter Wonderland," Sting "Gabriel's Message," RUN-D.M.C. "Christmas in Hollis," Madonna "Santa Baby")Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Record Collection : The Jackson 5 "Christmas Album" 1970

'Tis the season for holiday cheer and some great music!

I love this album for many reasons, even though there's a crack on the record and tends to skip around, I still let it play like it's flawless.

I love all of the songs featured on this record--they are soulful and fun and definitely bring you into the Christmas spirit.

(Favorite songs: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Up on the Housetop," "Give Love on Christmas Day," "Someday at Christmas") 

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Events: Beats & Brands

The lovely Cubannie and some other awesome designers will be selling some great merch at sample sale prices this Wednesday evening in NY. So if you need to get some last minute shopping done, this will be a great place to grab some good gear. And while you shop, you can check out a live performances by Nina Sky. Check the flyer below for more info!

PS

If you shop online at Cubannie Links during the rest of the month, you'll receive a free gift!

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Kid Cudi Does GQ

A couple of months ago I posted on my facebook page that I was in the same elevator as Kid Cudi in the building where I interned.  Although I was very hush hush about what went on in that building for confidentially reasons, I couldn't help but to share this info.  It wasn't that I was starstruck in any sort of way by the hip-hop artist's presence (I had met him a few years back and took a picture with him).  It was just a bit ironic that while I was out running errands an hour or so before catching the elevator with him, I was listening to songs featuring KC and other artists on the "How to Make it in America" mixtape--a show that he stars in.

Usually when someone would ride the same elevator with me I would check to see which floor/magazine they were going to.  But on this ride, I was honestly too tired to notice.  But now it's been revealed that Cudi was taking a ride to GQ Magazine to be featured in the 2011 Spring Style Guide.  In the magazine, the rapper/actor talks about music, kicking a drug habit, and being a new father.  You can read more details from the issue by checking out DatNewCudi.com or grabbing a copy of the mag once it hits newsstands.

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Vote For Your Favorite Musician of 2010

Which artist made you dance all night, drive around town with your windows down, touched your heart or all of the above.  Pick your favorite music artist from the Top 10 of 2010!

• Lady Gaga (1 vote)
• The Black Eyed Peas (0 votes)
• Katy Perry (0 votes)
• Kanye West (1 vote)
• Ke$ha (0 votes)
• B.o.B. (0 votes)
• Usher (0 votes)
• Eminem (1 vote)
• Rihanna (0 votes)
• Jay-Z (0 votes)

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Get The Look: Natalie Portman at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Event

1. ASOS CURVE Raw Edge One Shoulder Dress (Asos, $112)2. River Island Ruch One Shoulder Dress (Asos, $120)3. ASOS PREMIUM Raw Edge One Shoulder Dress (Asos, $86)4. La Regale 25465 Clutch (Endless.com, $69)5. Rhinestone Tear Drop Earrings (Forever 21, $6)6. 6-Piece Polished Metal Bangle Set (Forever 21, $1)7. Feeling Floral Hair Clips (Forever 21, $2)8. Femme Couture Quad Eye Shadow in Berry Pinks (Sally Beauty, $10)9. Pure Color Crystal Lipstick (Estee Lauder, $22)10. Fiesti Suede Sandal (Steve Madden, $59)11. Paloma Satin Platform Pumps (Charlotte Olympia , $840)

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New Fav Music Vid: "Mrs. Clause Ain't Got Nothin' On Me" Little Jackie

Have you been watching Target's new holiday commercials and wondered, "These songs are pretty awesome.  Who's the artist, and how can I get the song?"  The answer is simple--Target has a holiday album featuring all of the songs from its ads.  The best part of this album is that the songs are free to download.  Featuring artists like Little Jackie; Blackalicious; Blazer Force; Best Coast, Wavves and more, it will surely "tune your mood to merry."

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Demand "MOOZ-lum"

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Cover Girl: Jillian Michaels on SELF

You can usually find Michaels in workout gear and sneakers whenever she graces the cover of a magazine.  But on the January 2011 issue of SELF, she is looking glam and sexy from head-to-toe.  The health maven is participating with SELF to help people get fit for the new year, and there are also prizes galore throughout the month of January courtesy of Michaels and the magazine.

And just like in December's issue, there are accessoris that were handled by moi--especially all of the items featured on the wallet for every price point page.

Go pick up the new issue now on newsstands!

 

P.S.

Today is my last day interning for the magazine and I just want to share that it has been one of the best learning experiences of my life. I got to witness how the fashion department of a magazine is run, I made some new friends, and I also gained skills that people normally wouldn't unless they've been involved in the magazine world.  So I  would just like to say thank you SELF and I hope to see your walls (or at least the walls of the Conde Nast building) again soon.

 

Best,

Ramona

Accessories Intern

SELF Magazine

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Stella McCartney Launches iPad Application

Today is the official release of the designer's app solely for the iPad. It will feature pictures from her collection, music from Pharrell Williams, diary entries and some interactive features. You can visit www.stellamccartney.com to see more and all that this app has to offer.

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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My Style: Ralph Lauren x Lanvin for H&M

I found this collegiate style RL cardigan in the thrift store a few weeks ago and I think it goes well with the Lanvin for H&M necklace. I'll be putting the rest of the look together with a white tee, a pair of Uniqlo legging pants and my Dolce Vita for Target combat boots. It all looks good in my head--here's hoping it looks just as good tomorrow! 

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Hot Flash: Director of "Breakfast at Tiffany's" Dies

 

Courtesy of nytimes.com.

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Hot Flash: Mariah and Nick Expecting Twins

It was just announced that the moguls are expecting twins!  This will be the couple's first set of children and I'm sure they're fans wish them the best on this journey.

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Plndr: WeSC and IMKING

Plndr , the street-wearer's online sale site, is having a great sale for the holidays.  The current brands being sold on the site are Married to the Mob, Hellz Bellz, Supra and more.  But today's favorites are the Haiti Jacket in Plaster by WeSC (shown above) for $39.99.  And for the men, the Hood Hop Flannel Buttondown in Jean Blue by IMKING (shown below) for $19.99.

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Dangerously Beautiful's Bossy Collection

Dangerously Beautiful is back with a new bossy collection.  With tees and tanks that will make the sweetest girl get a little aggressive, this line is cute, feminine and easy to wear.  My favs are the Lady Boss Oversized Tank and the Golden Girls tee.

Now, if you know you're one of the baddest chicks who wear these tops well, then go visit DB and shop!

 

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Man of the Week: Christian Bale

Name: Christian Charles Phillip Bale

Born: January 30, 1974

Hometown: Wales, UK

Height: 6ft

Status: Married

Fun Fact: He has used a different accent for every film he's been in.

Info courtesy of imbd.com.

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"MICHAEL" Listening Party in NYC

Last night die-hard Michael Jackson fans braved the bitter cold for hours just to get a listen of his first posthomous release.  Held inside the Roseland Ballroom, people came together in the midst of what seemed to be a heaven for MJ fans.  DJ Cassidy kept the music going while dressed in a Billie Jean inspired outfit, Jackson's biggest hits "Thriller," "Billie Jean," and "Beat It," came with full on choreography sequences by in house dancers, and in every part of the room there was a poster, video, wall, cup and napkin that read, "MICHAEL."

Besides the music from the new album (which honestly you could understand why the King Of Pop never released on his watch) the real beauty of the night was how so many different people came together for one man.  While standing in the midst of it all, a thought came to mind and I wondered how MJ would've felt looking down on it all.  I honestly doubt that he would've cared about the event circling around him, but I do think that he would've been more happy just knowing that he was touching everyone and in a small corner of the world, people were united while enjoying the madness and the music.

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William Rast for Target

If you've been under a rock like me, then you're probably unaware of the new collaboration between William Rast and Target.  Set to be in stores and online starting Sunday, December 19, the rugged all American clothing line designed by Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala hosts a set of items that will mix rugged faux leather and denim with blouses and dresses.  An added bonus to this line is that there will be mens' items available too.

This collaboration comes at the perfect time for the last minute holiday shopper who is, or is interested in becoming, a part of the "New America" brand.  Prices range from $20-$200.

All images courtesy of Target.com.

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