You've Got The Love

Sunday evening was absolutely delightful. Dustin Shepard (phenomenal director and editor) came to my humble abode and we knew we wanted to film something but just weren't sure what to film. So I put on my party dress and he followed me outside as I roamed around my neighborhood in West LA. Here's what he captured....



Me singing "Hearbreaker" and "Killing Me Softly"...my favorite.



For more amazing work by DUSTIN SHEPARD CLICK HERE!

Nikka Nikka

I randomly stumbled upon this fantastic performance by Nikka Costa of her hit "Like a Feather" while browsing through youtube today. It made me kinda sad. She is one of the most talented artists and performers of this generation, yet her own people (us Americans) seem to have forgotten her. Thank God Europeans aren't nearly as musically ignorant and narrow-minded (she still sells out venues and apparently Prince is a huge fan). I swear Beyonce stole some of her moves...

I will always love you Miss Costa.

Never Seen Something Like This Before

Kenan Bell is much more than a rapper from Los Angeles. His humble manner might persuade you otherwise, but his ability to deconstruct today's popular culture so effortlessly in every song without a cuss word or gleaming gimmick, makes him a true artist. Yes, his hooks are catchy and verses contagious but isn't that what making great music is about? Mr. Bell understands that lyrics are meant to be understood, not incomprehensible. His intelligence and spirit shines through in every artistic choice...from his album artwork to his short message to a crowd of screaming fans....every move is sincerely Kenan. Now, a seasoned performer, Kenan has a slew of fans from across the country that can't wait for more from him. Not only am I a devoted fan, but Kenan is also a great friend that I've had the pleasure to watch grow and develop into an unstoppable entertainer.

Here is his first music video for his single "Like This" which highlights the landscape of his hometown, Los Angeles. Enjoy.

Clich HERE for more of Kenan Bell!!

Coo-Coo for Coco Puffs

Quadron. The name alone entices you. What could this band be about? Quality pop, refreshing soul, something that your heart beats for.....

Quadron is made up of Robin Hannibal and Coco Malaika from Denmark. He produces the music, she sings. Safe to say I am pretty obsessed with the magical duo. Although they've only performed in Los Angeles a few times, I have been there to see them, front center, at almost every show. Youngster Coco, elegantly draws her crowd with her stunning voice. Her inner diva shines as she sings, only to reveal glimpses of a humble, sweet girl in between each song, who probably has no idea how truly incredible she is. Robin's simple yet decisive production perfectly compliments Coco's vocal abilities and quirky lyrics. Here's a short vid I took at the show at the Echo of Coco singing "Slippin." Sorry for the bouncing...I couldn't contain myself from dancing! The self-titled album is available on itunes and worth every penny.

Clich HERE for more from Quadron!

p.s. sorry for the long absence...the storm passed and i'm back!

A Fair Flea Market

As one of the Rimmel London 10, I feel it is my responsibility to share my great fashion finds!

Continuing with my favorite nooks of LA theme....I take you to a lovely, bustling place for fashion, furniture, vinyl, jewelry, antiques, collectables, food, and of course quirky LA folk. Sounds like heaven, right? The place: Fairfax Flea Market on Melrose Ave. in West Hollywood, CA. I've been goin to this place since high school and I still find at least 5 items I swear I would not be able to live without. It happens every Sunday afternoon and with summer beckoning, I've got a feeling the people, atmosphere, and items will only get better! In other words, GO!

A few weeks ago, TIGER TIGER photography filmed this lovely short film as I browsed the market....thank you ladies!

Gavin Turek - RIMMEL LONDON from TIGER TIGER on Vimeo.

Shot and Edited by TIGER TIGER

Song: "Your Turn" by Gavin

Do I Hear An ECho ECho ECCChooo

Los Angeles is huge. For all the space it takes up, its funny that there's only a few mini-places that I love to frequent. One being the Echo: a small music venue in the heart of Echo Park that consistently has at least one good music night a week and a chill scene. No need to pull out a party dress for this place; I say that as a compliment. A few weeks ago I went to the Echo to see my friends HAIM play. They were phenomenal to say the least and it was an all around kick butt night. Captivating and classic music, a few good friends from out of town, my dancing shoes, cute boys, and of course photos from TigerTiger made the night unforgettable. And that's what LA is about. Here are some rad photos captured by the lovely ladies of TigerTiger taken that night.....

a fine couple...

i cross my arms when i feel tough

good friends are like fine wine

excuuuse me kind sir...

Click HERE to check out HAIM

Click HERE to check out TigerTiger

Nina the Great.

Every time I need some inspiration...whether artistic or spiritual....there is one musician that always feeds my soul: Nina Simone. Mere words can not express how her music/lyrics/presence impact my artistry. When she performed, she demanded attention without asking for it. Everything from her clothes to her hair, her voice to her classical technique, her hard exterior to her warm soul communicated respect for herself, her people, and her artistry. Effortless and incomparable, Miss Simone draws her listener in like a helpless fish on a hook. Steady as a train, fearless as an ox, her musical depth transcends any box people try to fit her in. She remained true to the art of storytelling with her no frills, straight-up lyrics. Just when you think you've hit the bottom...have got nothing to live or hope for....she reminds us simply...that we have the gift of life. Enjoy my daily inspiration:

TEN 4 TWENTY/TEN

As a 1/10th of the "Rimmel 10," Rimmel London asked me to predict the 10 hottest trends for 2010, from clothes to make-up. Quite daunting at first glance. But I bravely ventured into the future, looked around a bit, documented my findings, jumped back in my time machine just in time to report what I found:

1. Hot Lips

This is officially the year of bold lips. Hot pink, fire engine red, deep maroon you name it, you wear it! My color of choice is definitely hot pink. I like to call this shade Barbie pink. This pic is from a awesome photo shoot I did with TigerTiger! Go here to see more from TigerTiger!

*photo by TigerTiger*

2. Endless Lashes

Where as 2009 was about minimal make-up for me, 2010 is about staying natural while looking like you got fake lashes on! The only way you can accomplish this is Rimmel London's Max Volume Flash Mascara!! I swear by it. Honestly you can ask my friends; I wear it everyday and get endless compliments. Embrace your voluptuous, natural, but fake looking lashes this year!

*photo by Ayesha Chugh*

3. Flower Power

This is the year of the bold. Boldly floral that is. I know it takes guts to rock pink and yellow flowers that scream "I'm a girl!" but trust me, this is the time to do it! Flower print is back in a big way. This is a pic of my friend Anna who is brilliantly wearing a floral dress that fits her perfectly. Remember, outrageous prints require a perfect fit! Unflattering and crazy can be a tragedy where as flattering and unique can be legendary.

*photo by Hana Turek*

4. Sock It To Me

Simply put: wear socks with your short boots when wearing a short skirt, dress or shorts. Have fun with this one. I've seen this look well executed when plain boots are coupled with patterned socks as well. I'm loving it.

*photo by me*

5. Capes For Common Folk

Who woulda thought a non-superhero could wear a cape in the middle of the day? Well the future is bright my dears because this day has come! Rain or shine, these functional, flirty mini-capes are just what you need to stand out(without the hassle of saving the world). Check out this lovely cape captured by our friends at the LA street style blog Culture Creators. Thanks guys!

Click HERE to check out more incredible street style from Culture Creators!

*photo by Culture Creators*

6. Booty Booty Booty

That's right! Studded, sleek, and perfect for your feet. I stumbled upon these on the faithful blog Culture Creators once again! These short booties are extremely versatile and work in rain or shine. I love boots that I can wear anytime of year.

*photo by Culture Creators*

7. Space Cadet

I suggest that as you begin to take more risks this year, try going to a galaxy far, far away for style inspiration. This lovely lady did and it worked. Now, you don't have to take my spacey advice literally....wearing neon colors that pop, mixing shiny textures with matte, and playing with your usually plain silhouette will suffice. Take the risk.

*photo by Hana Turek*

8. Mysterious Nails

I still love bright nails, but it feels right to bring on the drama this year. Why not begin with a mysterious color like Lava Red from Rimmel London?? They have an excellent product called Lasting Finish Pro Nail Enamel which easily creates a smooth and shiny surface that lasts for up to 10 days! Go get it. You know you wanna.

9. Fringe is the Word

If you really want to make a statement this year with your everyday look, fringe is the word. I know Londoners have already made this discovery...and its time for everyone else to get on the band wagon! I dare you to go to your local thrift shop, find a piece with fringe, and make it work. I wore this amazing suede piece in my music video for "Good As Gold" and I found that the fringe alone made my moves come alive! Invest in fringe now. You'll thank me later. Thanks again Culture Creators for this find!

*photo by Culture Creators*

10. Just Be YOU

Being proud of who YOU are, owning your quirks, kinks, and every scar in between is definitely the most important trend...because its the only trend that never ever goes out of style.

*photo by Calethia Deconto*

Old Familiar Places...

Lezley Saar

"Tooth Hut", 2007, 79" x 78", ink and photos on rice paper

A few Saturdays ago, I went to previously named Jan Baum gallery on La Brea in the heart of West Hollywood. It's been years since I've been back there. I remember putting on my best flower dress, so elated to go to a posh art opening of one of my mother's good friends...who happened to be a the devastatingly cool and talented artist, Lezley Saar. The epitome of coy, Lezley held solo exhibitions at the gallery I grew so fond of. And now, years later, I returned to see her most recent work. She never ceases to surprise and amaze me with her multi-faceted, multi-layered pieces. They are never predictable. She explores and questions binary oppositions so ingrained in our society through painting, photography, and installation. Here is one of her pieces from the show. This small picture does not do the work justice; the piece majestically covers an entire wall and its most intricate details are as significant as its grand size. What meaning can you give to the piece?

For a slightly better image click HERE!

Carol of the Bell

so it went down like this:

barely woke up early in the morning(went out night before...basically took a nap), got coffee, stumbled into the shower, tamed my mane, met up with my producer jon siebels(keys), and my talented and lovely friends jon foshee(guitar), jack dolgen(bass), hana turek(stylist/photographer), and keeper(camera man) who suggested we sneak into fremont middle school to play some music. i agreed. although we interrupted some kids baseball practice and scared a few roller bladders, here's what transpired from that random afternoon....a pleasant rendition of my song "RING IT" enjoy :D

My London Look

Hola!

As part of the Rimmel London 10, I received lots of wonderful Rimmel London make-up and goodies to try out and experiment with to get a fantastically fresh and bold look that is just right for ME! After going a few days without make-up, I realized that a natural face fits my eclectic style, yet I still wanted that attention grabbing affect. So, I experimented with all my new make-up over the last week and I think I found the perfect balance...what do you think??

Click HERE to create a unique look that fits YOU!

Gold As Gold

Presenting my first music video for my song "Good As Gold" directed by Dustin Shepard!!!

We filmed the video at a few of my favorite Los Angeles nooks...Santa Monica Beach, Koreatown, and Hunn Park. It was a glorious day! The sun was shining and the sky was a perfect shade a blue....I feel so blessed and happy. Please enjoy and share with the world!!!!

love,

Gav

GAVIN - Good As Gold from Dustin Shepard on Vimeo.

Proud Namesake: Gavin Castleton

Okay. I admit I'm biased. Gavin is a darn good name. Come to think of it, every Gavin I've ever met has something particularly intriguing emitting from their existence. So far, all of them are men...and I love that. I love being unique in every way possible I guess. Let me introduce to you my new favorite Gavin; Gavin Castleton.

While I was cleaning my room Sunday morning (listening to KCRW online), I suddenly began moving like my sister's gold fish that jumped outta water due to an overwhelming sense of joy(we like to tell ourselves). The contagious bass line, funked up drums, and that voice....ooooowheee....I literally couldn't contain myself. I dropped the broom and had own private dance party right then and there to "Hope is A Drug." Self-produced and waaaay too underrated, this song jus might become this month's anthem and Gavin's raw-silk vocals are obviously my new inspiration. Amen. Enjoy.

Nothing Little About Yukumi

Alluring Voice...unforgettable style. Yukimi Nagano, of the Swedish band Little Dragon, is as timeless as a star and a force to be reckoned with on stage. I saw Little Dragon perform at the Glasshouse in Pomona not long ago and I stood frozen, dumb-founded by her presence. With ease and natural soul, her rich voice seemed to cast a spell on the audience. And her personal style is just as unique. Check out Little Dragon if you're not a fan already. Trust me. Even though this video has an awkward beginning, watch it! You won't regret it :D

I Dream of Venice (Beach)

I secretly fantasize about being a Venice Beach street performer. Those people are legit. Crazy and legit. Maybe one day I'll put on a pink wig and sparkle dress and kill it with a mic and a boom box. But until then, I'll admire from a distance. Brilliant filmmaker/cimaphotographer (and friend) Dustin Shepard, captured my hometown so well in this video. As a native Angeleno, I feel that very few filmmakers do LA justice. With shots of Venice, Santa Monica, and West LA area, Dustin characterizes his LA with skaters, pedestrians, weight-lifters, and a diverse mix of everyday people. His amazing editing skills and a unique flare for capturing people in their natural habitat, this rising star is on his way to becoming a sought after cinematic genius!!

Please click HERE to watch his music video for Example and Dj Wire - "Not So Pretty"

Enjoy :D

Tigers in Heat

Yep Los Angeles is home to tons of talented photographers..but what makes one really stand out in the pack? Outlandish behavior and nudity. Obviously. But I want more! Don't you? I know two lovely tigers who will satisfy your appetite. Charismatic new comers to the scene, Hana and Jenny, the innovative artists behind TigerTiger, have a knack for capturing youth, beauty, and essence of LA life. The BFF's photos are effortlessly cool and refreshing. Whether its architecture, fashion, live shows, or nature's glory, their photos are fun to look at...plain and simple. And it doesn't hurt that they are both drop dead gorgeous with incredible personal style. Here are some recent photos taken from their blog...

(RE)freshed

2010 has already brought me many delightful surprises...one being that I was chosen to be part of the Rimmel London 10! 10 unique and spunky girls were chosen from across the country to bring the "London Look" here to the U.S.!!!

Every month, Rimmel London give us "challenges." The first one is going without make-up for a few days....which I wasn't too excited about. Since the tender age of 14, make-up has been my constant companion. I love eye liner, bronzer, blush...everything! But to my surprise this challenge turned out to be jus what I needed. A refreshing realization that I in fact do not NEED make-up everyday to feel pretty...but I still love wearing it :D

Oh Hello

*photo by calethia deconto*

I am a creative soul who’s extremely passionate about my music…thus, I must make music everyday. Often you will find me either in the studio, writing a song, dancing spastically, or singing to myself.

I try to go to at least one live show a week! I’ve seen my favorite bands in la, from phoenix to little dragon, flaming lips, gnarles barkley, feist, and every little known artist in between…each show inspires my music, art, and style.

I live in the heart of west la, snuggled in between a thriving art scene and an uppity fashion scene. There is ALWAYS something to do. Whether its goin down to La Cienaga’s row of quaint art galleries for some great art and cheese or down to Melrose Ave. for a evening of fashion at Fred Segal, I keep my mind open and my camera ready.

LA is my mecca and im its little explorer. This year, as I refresh my surroundings and my life I welcome you to explore with me.....