(SQ getting some practice in before the show)

If you're a fan of MTV's Americas Best Dance Crew, you may recall Boston's Status Quo (now SQ Entertainment), who were runners up to season 1 winners JabbaWockeez. From the very first episode, I declared SQ to be my favorite crew, and after a tedious Internet search I landed myself some tickets to the taping (then at Sony Studios). It was then that I met and befriended a few of the SQ guys, and almost two years later we remain in contact.

As far as they made it on ABDC, after losing to Jabba the road for SQ has been a rough one. Despite hard times (including a few dancers leaving the group), negativity, and harsh criticism, they continue to perform and compete, and their devoted fans and followers continue to support them. A few weeks ago, I learned that the guys would be back in Los Angeles to compete on America's Got Talent. They'd auditioned and been cut after the second round, but they'd been invited back as a "wild card" selection.

The night before the big show, my friend Taliah and I went to hang out with the guys while they practiced in their Beverly Hills hotel. The hotel was AWESOME - a huge step up from when MTV had them staying at the Raddisson. Part of me was hoping they would make it ot the next round just so I could free load on wi-fi and use the swimming Pool. 

The guys were their same goofy selves and were excited to be back in Cali. Since they dont have Jack in the Box in Boston, I picked some up on my way over, which made their night -  especially SQ crew leader Ernest, aka E-Knock.

E-knock is great because he has so much energy ALL THE TIME! He showed me an awesome drawing of Michael Jackson that he plans to get tatt'ed on his leg. He was telling me that someone had questioned why he chose his leg for the tattoo and his answer was simply "because he is the reason why my legs move." Later after showing him my attempts at break dancing, he taught me a '6-step,'  move which I still havent quite mastered.

Practice lasted about an hour and a half. The were silly as usual, and often got distracted (a water fight and a flipping contest), but we had fun and Taliah and I enjoyed watching our private show. But the almost two hour  practice session couldn't prepare me for what I would witness the next day. At the actual live taping of AGT (which was long as hell btw), with the lights, effects and screaming audience, Taliah and I were blown away. I was sitting next to some kid who could hardly sit still and before the show I asked him who he was there to see and he said "my favorite dance crew ever, Status Quo!" The performance was great and they got positive feedback from the judges - even Piers. The next day, many online sources named it among the top performances of the night.

I had high hopes, but only 5 of the 12 performers would make it to the next round, and sadly SQ didnt get enough votes to proceed. I stopped by the hotel one last time before their departure back to Boston the next day. I was sad to see them go, but still happy that they are not giving up on performing and doing what they love. I'll continue to support them, and I hope they make it back to L.A. again soon!

America's Got Talent SQ Entertainment Performance

Wow my mind has been everywhere but where its supposed to be. As much as i've beaten you over the head with info on rapper/singer Drake, i didnt even give you the honor of watching the first video from his So Far Gone mix tape for "Best I Ever Had."

Maybe you've been sleeping under a rock and havent heard this song? It's one of the most highly regarded singles off the mixtape and is a prime example of both Drake's lyrical and vocal capabilities. For some reason this song reminds me of Craig David (does anyone remember him?).

The video for Best I Ever Had was directed by Kanye West. I love the cinematography but the concept and storyline are wack. Perhaps Drake simply felt honored that West showed an interest in working with him so he didnt question the concept? If it were me i'd have  been a little skeptical. Kanye doesnt seem like the kind of person who does something for nothing. Im just sayin....

Enjoy the video!

Tomorrow, Monday, February 16, MTV is airing a half-hour special discussing the domestic violence allegations between Chris Brown and Rihanna. The show will take an in-depth look at their realtionship, the events leading up to the alleged assualt, and the effect of each on their lives as well as the effect it's had on fans.

Relationship experts, journalists, industry professionals, and a live studio audience will be on hand to discuss the past weeks events, and offer advice for viewers who may find themselves in similar situations. The show will also examine Chris Brown's upbringing, having been raised in a home with domestic abuse present.

In a way, I'm glad that this unfortunate event is receiving such attention. To me, it means that people care about these two stars. They are both so young, and I think people are really hurting for the both of them. This isn't Ike and Tina, or Bobby and Whitney, but it's two very young celebrities who inspire our young generation and have the ability to make a difference. The public wants to see them both recover and come out on top. We want them both to receive the support and help that they need.

The special will air at 6pm ET/PT, I encourage you all to give up 30 minutes of your time and tune in.

Read the Article on MTV, here.

This just in!!!! Chris Brown has issued a statement!

"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," the statement reads. "I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person.

"Much of what has been speculated or reported on blogs and/or reported in the media is wrong," the statement continues. "While I would like to be able to talk about this more, until the legal issues are resolved, this is all I can say except that I have not written any messages or made any posts to Facebook, on blogs or any place else. Those posts or writings under my name are frauds."

read the full article here.