Just came across this video from underground rapper, Eno Abasi. I appreciate the smooth flow and his simple video concept, I think that's the way to go, this being his debut video. Being that I'm gearing up to start seriously and consistently releasing content myself I definitely appreciate the simple cuts, fresh outfits and focus on the rhymes. It's a good look for Harlem rap right now.
Friday, October 14, 2016
Thursday, October 13, 2016
How to Drink More Water Daily?
Over the past year or so I have been working to improve areas of my life especially surrounding my health, so along with my vegetarian and sometimes vegan diet I have been trying to drink MUCH more water. I don't need to go into all the health benefits, I think it's safe to say that it's common knowledge that the more water you drink, the healthier you are.
I will say that sodas, sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol are all equally as addictive and tear down your body. The good thing is that once you make a conscious choice to start drinking more water, your body immediately thanks you for it by giving you more energy, improving your digestion, clearing your skin, and helping your mental focus and alertness.
It has always been hard for me to drink water consistently, until I came across this amazing app that I want to share with you guys today. It's called "Water Drink Reminder" and it's FREE. Basically it starts you off with a daily set goal of fluid ounces based on your weight which you can change to add more or less if you like. The app allows you to keep track of exactly how much you intake by including a variety of different cups and vessels that you may be drinking out of throughout the day. It shows a regular kitchen cup (9oz), what looks like a fast food type cup (12oz), a Gatorade bottle (20oz) up to your larger hiking type bottle (24oz) all of which are also customizable if you have a container that you use every day and know how many ounces it is.
The best part for me, being busy and on the go, is the alarm that comes much like a text message every hour, but instead of a message you receive a little picture of the bottle reminding you to drink. Once you hydrate you just add the little plus sign on the bottom and it adds to your daily drinking total. I find it to be extremely motivating because it makes it like a game and you can compete with yourself from day to day. Plus, a yearly graph chart is incorporated into the app which breaks your progress from month to month and week to week, including averages. You can also track your weight within the app.
It's compatible with Social Media platforms so you can share your success which I think is super cool because people always like to see exactly how someone is doing something in order to help see themselves do the same thing. As you know by now I'm always about showing you guys exactly how or what I'm doing at a particular time to stay motivated as I develop a healthier lifestyle. Look out for my logged in ounces on Facebook and Twitter. You can do it too, take action and improve your health now with a water drinking app! Let me know what it does for you!
Thursday, September 29, 2016
We're Back with Music Success Week 5: Youtube
Okay, so I took a little hiatus from my Music Success in 9 Weeks book but not because I was slacking, simply because life happens, you know? I am blessed to have been able to move into newer, bigger, better, and opulent feeling apartment, and have refocused a little more energy back into my block hustle this past few weeks. Now, with my new place mostly sorted out and positive energies all around I'm ready to pick up where I left off on Week 5: The Musician's Guide to Youtube.
Again, it's cool to see that so much of what I'm being instructed to do by this book are things that I already have a pretty solid handle on, Youtube being one of them. And I completely agree with the authors sentiments regarding the power of video. Expect to see a lot more visual content from me in the next few months! That being said, it's important to understand how Google (who as of 2006 owns Youtube) and Youtube interact in order to strengthen your online presence.
Think of Youtube like all your other social media networks. Hyatt suggests you make friends with other users, watch videos, subscribe to channels you like, add videos to your favorites, comment on videos, rate comments, and post video responses. This level of interactivity helps to market you and your music, interact with fans, other artists and potential partners, increases your Google index as well as attracts more fans in hopes that you will achieve the elusive status of a "Viral Sensation."
Some homework: Spend some time watching what is already working on Youtube and follow. You can see the most watched videos on Youtube here: http://www.youtube.com/charts to get an idea of what people want to see, then incorporate these elements into your own content.
When you're ready to make videos, think about what is going to be appealing to your target audience. Keep your videos to less than 3 minutes and always include a Call to Action. In other words, invite them to like your Facebook page or follow you on Twitter if they like the video, but only use one call to action per video so you don't confuse your audience. Getting viewers to take action is the whole point of making a video.
Since Youtube is also a search engine consider including content that people already know they are looking for, use this site to see what people are searching for: http://ads.youtube.com/keyword_tool . Another strategy, that doesn't necessarily apply to rappers, but for you singer/songwriters out there reading, Cover Songs really work! So pick a few of your favorite songs and create your best version for your channel.
The author, then goes on to explain a step by step on how to set up your Youtube channel if you don't already have one. I won't go into too much detail here but some main points are to choose the "musician channel" option, keep your colors and branding consistent with your other social media accounts and website and think about including keywords in your title.
To optimize your channel, titles are key. according to some Youtube studies, the biggest factor determining success on a video's click though is directly related to the video's title. Always include artist/band name, song title and any other important info/ relevant keywords. The description box is also really important so put your website (with the http:// part so that it shows up as a hyperlink) and a little explanation of the video itself. After you have chosen the proper video category, make sure you tag with no more than 7-8 related words, genres, people, themes etc. Once your video is uploaded remember to share it on your other Social Media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and your Blog. Finally, use the "Analytics" tab in your "Creator Studio" to follow the success of your video and see if your Call to Action is working.
That about does it for the Youtube overview, as always, let me know what you think and if you need more information on something I talked about just ask. I know it can be overwhelming but helping you helps me. So have fun with Youtube and don't worry if you don't have the best camera or the most awesome editing skills. Just trust that if you put yourself out there all that extra stuff will eventually come to you! Good Luck!
Again, it's cool to see that so much of what I'm being instructed to do by this book are things that I already have a pretty solid handle on, Youtube being one of them. And I completely agree with the authors sentiments regarding the power of video. Expect to see a lot more visual content from me in the next few months! That being said, it's important to understand how Google (who as of 2006 owns Youtube) and Youtube interact in order to strengthen your online presence.
Think of Youtube like all your other social media networks. Hyatt suggests you make friends with other users, watch videos, subscribe to channels you like, add videos to your favorites, comment on videos, rate comments, and post video responses. This level of interactivity helps to market you and your music, interact with fans, other artists and potential partners, increases your Google index as well as attracts more fans in hopes that you will achieve the elusive status of a "Viral Sensation."
Some homework: Spend some time watching what is already working on Youtube and follow. You can see the most watched videos on Youtube here: http://www.youtube.com/charts to get an idea of what people want to see, then incorporate these elements into your own content.
When you're ready to make videos, think about what is going to be appealing to your target audience. Keep your videos to less than 3 minutes and always include a Call to Action. In other words, invite them to like your Facebook page or follow you on Twitter if they like the video, but only use one call to action per video so you don't confuse your audience. Getting viewers to take action is the whole point of making a video.
Since Youtube is also a search engine consider including content that people already know they are looking for, use this site to see what people are searching for: http://ads.youtube.com/keyword_tool . Another strategy, that doesn't necessarily apply to rappers, but for you singer/songwriters out there reading, Cover Songs really work! So pick a few of your favorite songs and create your best version for your channel.
The author, then goes on to explain a step by step on how to set up your Youtube channel if you don't already have one. I won't go into too much detail here but some main points are to choose the "musician channel" option, keep your colors and branding consistent with your other social media accounts and website and think about including keywords in your title.
To optimize your channel, titles are key. according to some Youtube studies, the biggest factor determining success on a video's click though is directly related to the video's title. Always include artist/band name, song title and any other important info/ relevant keywords. The description box is also really important so put your website (with the http:// part so that it shows up as a hyperlink) and a little explanation of the video itself. After you have chosen the proper video category, make sure you tag with no more than 7-8 related words, genres, people, themes etc. Once your video is uploaded remember to share it on your other Social Media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and your Blog. Finally, use the "Analytics" tab in your "Creator Studio" to follow the success of your video and see if your Call to Action is working.
(A screenshot from my recent #SoGoneChallenge video including all the necessary info and keywords as explained in the chapter)
That about does it for the Youtube overview, as always, let me know what you think and if you need more information on something I talked about just ask. I know it can be overwhelming but helping you helps me. So have fun with Youtube and don't worry if you don't have the best camera or the most awesome editing skills. Just trust that if you put yourself out there all that extra stuff will eventually come to you! Good Luck!
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Vegetarian to Vegan - - Why?
If you have been reading my posts or following me on any of my social media platforms you know that I am a very proud vegetarian. It has been over a year since I gave up meat completely and I'm still going strong. I have touched on this topic before in previous posts so feel free to catch up with my journey here. Lately, it has been on my mind and heart to make the transition from vegetarian to vegan.
For those that don't know the difference, a Vegetarian doesn't eat meat or fish but still eats cheese, milk, eggs, and other dairy products like ice cream, sour cream, mayo etc. Someone who is Vegan does not consume any animal products at all and instead finds all the necessary nutrients from leafy greens, a variety of fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Seriously, the protein and calcium debates are really just another form of mainstream media mind control.
Anyway, back to why I'm turning Vegan. At this point my taste buds have changed enough that I know I can enjoy Vegan food and not feel like I'm missing out. I've discovered enough alternatives that are as good or better than what I was used. Since I have been eating fruits and vegetables more consistently my body has become more keen to when I eat processed foods aka "crackfood" as I call it. There is a noticable difference in how I feel after I eat fast food, junk food and cheese/dairy loaded foods.
I want to be the best I can possibly be, musically, emotionally, physically, spiritually, economically etc and I feel like a fucking zombie when I eat something that I know is poison. I mean when you really think about dairy, it just doesn't make any sense. This is a substance designed by God to develop a baby cow into an adult cow and it is beyond terrible for your human body. Fact.
My sensory reasons aside, the meat and dairy industries have a horrible impact on the planet, the environment and obviously the animals themselves and it's just not something my conscience will allow me to contribute to anymore. I'm amazed at how many people want to be healthy, try to be healthy and yet still don't know the facts about the "crack" they are eating and it's injustices. The fact of the matter is, that these processed foods and animal products are highly addictive and designed to keep us coming back for more. Obey! Consume! Buy! Conform!
But it's a lot harder than you might think to kick it all!! Reading labels, curbing cravings and breaking habits, it's a lot. So, instead I am working towards gradual change. A vegan meal here and there, an entire vegan day sometimes, and eventually it will all disappear out of my life for good.
For those that don't know the difference, a Vegetarian doesn't eat meat or fish but still eats cheese, milk, eggs, and other dairy products like ice cream, sour cream, mayo etc. Someone who is Vegan does not consume any animal products at all and instead finds all the necessary nutrients from leafy greens, a variety of fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Seriously, the protein and calcium debates are really just another form of mainstream media mind control.
Anyway, back to why I'm turning Vegan. At this point my taste buds have changed enough that I know I can enjoy Vegan food and not feel like I'm missing out. I've discovered enough alternatives that are as good or better than what I was used. Since I have been eating fruits and vegetables more consistently my body has become more keen to when I eat processed foods aka "crackfood" as I call it. There is a noticable difference in how I feel after I eat fast food, junk food and cheese/dairy loaded foods.
I want to be the best I can possibly be, musically, emotionally, physically, spiritually, economically etc and I feel like a fucking zombie when I eat something that I know is poison. I mean when you really think about dairy, it just doesn't make any sense. This is a substance designed by God to develop a baby cow into an adult cow and it is beyond terrible for your human body. Fact.
My sensory reasons aside, the meat and dairy industries have a horrible impact on the planet, the environment and obviously the animals themselves and it's just not something my conscience will allow me to contribute to anymore. I'm amazed at how many people want to be healthy, try to be healthy and yet still don't know the facts about the "crack" they are eating and it's injustices. The fact of the matter is, that these processed foods and animal products are highly addictive and designed to keep us coming back for more. Obey! Consume! Buy! Conform!
But it's a lot harder than you might think to kick it all!! Reading labels, curbing cravings and breaking habits, it's a lot. So, instead I am working towards gradual change. A vegan meal here and there, an entire vegan day sometimes, and eventually it will all disappear out of my life for good.
Monday, September 12, 2016
How Do You Stay Motivated By Making Short Term Goals?
Today I want to write about the helpfulness of setting short term goals, and how I use this habit to keep me focused on the big picture. Living in Hollywood has taught me so much about what it truly takes to be successful and there is a lot of noise out here that can knock you off.
It's very sad to say, but if you where to walk up and down the streets of Hollywood you'd find countless homeless people, addicts and people who have just lost their minds. The majority are just kids younger then me. They all came here in search of a dream, in exactly the same way that I have.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm very thankful that I've got the this crazy 513 hustle mentality witch has allowed me to develop and a life style and the skills I need to get paid in the streets everyday. Then again thats just the thing, I've been hustling the streets for five years and now and on the surface it seems like I've made no real moves towards what anybody would call real success in the music industry.
I hardly care what people think and I'm well aware that success is a state of mind. I love short term goals for this reason. They set you up for long term success. Allow me to give you and example. All the money I make selling CD's are technically donations which means in order to stay within the law, I am not allowed to tell people a certain set price. The customers can pay the amount they feel is right.
I have 20 songs on my mixtape, so I usually feel most people can give $20 which is only $1 dollar a song. Sounds fair enough right? But lets just say at the very least I get $5 per CD. Not a very motivating number right? But let say I sell only 30 CD's per day at $5 a piece, this turns out to be $150 per day. $150 per day add's up to $4,500 per month. $4,500 per month add's up to $54k per year and that's more than most people with degrees make and even my old teachers didn't make $50k! Lol. So you see, now I'm feeling motivated!
By setting short term goals you're able to find success in everything you do. I guess I'd define a short term goal as something similar to what Ariel Hyatt talks about in Music Success in 9 Weeks. (Read more in one of my previous posts.) Writing down 5 small successes each day, that eventually accumulate. Sell 30 CD's each day for at least $5 each and eventually that will accumulate into $50k!!!
Now how can you apply a similar principle to your larger goals? If you want to lose 20 lbs can you break it down to 1-2l bs per day? Or what if you wanted to write a book. Try 5 pages per day. Set short term goals and be proud of yourself when you accomplish these seemingly small successes. That's the journey towards victory!
It's very sad to say, but if you where to walk up and down the streets of Hollywood you'd find countless homeless people, addicts and people who have just lost their minds. The majority are just kids younger then me. They all came here in search of a dream, in exactly the same way that I have.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm very thankful that I've got the this crazy 513 hustle mentality witch has allowed me to develop and a life style and the skills I need to get paid in the streets everyday. Then again thats just the thing, I've been hustling the streets for five years and now and on the surface it seems like I've made no real moves towards what anybody would call real success in the music industry.
I hardly care what people think and I'm well aware that success is a state of mind. I love short term goals for this reason. They set you up for long term success. Allow me to give you and example. All the money I make selling CD's are technically donations which means in order to stay within the law, I am not allowed to tell people a certain set price. The customers can pay the amount they feel is right.
By setting short term goals you're able to find success in everything you do. I guess I'd define a short term goal as something similar to what Ariel Hyatt talks about in Music Success in 9 Weeks. (Read more in one of my previous posts.) Writing down 5 small successes each day, that eventually accumulate. Sell 30 CD's each day for at least $5 each and eventually that will accumulate into $50k!!!
Now how can you apply a similar principle to your larger goals? If you want to lose 20 lbs can you break it down to 1-2l bs per day? Or what if you wanted to write a book. Try 5 pages per day. Set short term goals and be proud of yourself when you accomplish these seemingly small successes. That's the journey towards victory!
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Need New Shades? Thank you GlassesShop.com !
At the beginning of this month I got a very random email from GlassesShop.com inviting me to review their product on my blog. Being that I am always in search of great shades, and I've just begun to bulk up my collection it couldn't have come at a more perfect time. I always appreciate a collaboration so I'm happy to bring you my thoughts on my freshest pair of glasses.
Fortunately for me, I have perfect vision so I didn't need to request prescription sunglasses from GlassesShop.com but if you're someone that does, the website makes it really easy to get your unique needs handled. There is a single vision option, the most basic type of lenses with just one magnification throughout the entire lens, processed for Distance (to see Far), Reading (to see Near) or for Computer Work (Intermediate). Option two: Multifocal eyeglasses for near and far sightedness so you can adjust easily from reading to watching something far away. These options are available for both sunglasses and regular eye glasses.
And if you're just in it for the sauce, like me, choose the fashion option which offers "frame only" (no lens), eyeglasses with a "plain clear lens" and sunglasses with a "tinted lens". I really like square frames so I decided to go with the Dubuque Wayfarer - Black Frame shades as my complimentary pair!! Super thankful for this opportunity to partner with GlassesShop.com and couldn't wait for their arrival.
When my sunglasses arrived I immediately appreciated that they came in a hard case along with a nifty cleaning cloth.
For $39.95 the quality of the glasses is definitely up there with name brand glasses that will cost you over $200. They are surprisingly weighty, sit nicely on your face and are just overall solid glasses. They don't feel chintzy at all and I have had bad experiences ordering sunglasses online before, only to receive rickety light plastic crap. When I put these GlassesShop.com glasses on my face I feel like I'm wearing a pair of extremely expensive sunglasses.
So if you guys are looking for a large selection of sunglasses and eyeglasses online, prescription or fashion with quality you can trust, that won't break the bank, head on over to GlassesShop.com and use this promo code GSHOT50 for 50% off your order! I know I'll be ordering again soon!
#glasses #sunglasses #prescriptionglasses #eyeglasses #peterparker513 #plssaythe513 #hollywood
Fortunately for me, I have perfect vision so I didn't need to request prescription sunglasses from GlassesShop.com but if you're someone that does, the website makes it really easy to get your unique needs handled. There is a single vision option, the most basic type of lenses with just one magnification throughout the entire lens, processed for Distance (to see Far), Reading (to see Near) or for Computer Work (Intermediate). Option two: Multifocal eyeglasses for near and far sightedness so you can adjust easily from reading to watching something far away. These options are available for both sunglasses and regular eye glasses.
And if you're just in it for the sauce, like me, choose the fashion option which offers "frame only" (no lens), eyeglasses with a "plain clear lens" and sunglasses with a "tinted lens". I really like square frames so I decided to go with the Dubuque Wayfarer - Black Frame shades as my complimentary pair!! Super thankful for this opportunity to partner with GlassesShop.com and couldn't wait for their arrival.
When my sunglasses arrived I immediately appreciated that they came in a hard case along with a nifty cleaning cloth.
So if you guys are looking for a large selection of sunglasses and eyeglasses online, prescription or fashion with quality you can trust, that won't break the bank, head on over to GlassesShop.com and use this promo code GSHOT50 for 50% off your order! I know I'll be ordering again soon!
#glasses #sunglasses #prescriptionglasses #eyeglasses #peterparker513 #plssaythe513 #hollywood
Sunday, August 21, 2016
So Gone Challenge? Peter Parker 513 is GILE$ - Accepted.
Tooling around online the other day like I do and I stumbled across the "So Gone Challenge" that seems to have everyone excited thanks to Chance the Rapper's submission. I watched a few different videos and instantly thought it was cool as fuck.
Since then, numerous celebrities including Kevin Hart, Dwayne Wade and Monica herself, have taken to social media to share their renditions. Being that I'm looking to get the ball rolling and gain momentum for my up and coming projects, I thought it would be a good exercise to participate and give my fans a little taste of what they have to look forward to. It feels good to be looking into that camera again!
Check out my #SoGoneChallenge on Youtube.
#PeterParker513 #HollywodBlvd #ChancetheRapper #Monica #plssaythe513 #GILE$
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