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"Gorgeous! "

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The Instagram Team

Tune In Tuesday: It's Definitely on Again!

As we approach the premiere of the highly anticipated  'The Amazing Spider Man 2' we were also granted new music from a group of extremely artistic heroes, who teamed up to bring movie soundtracks back to life. Leading the pack, 'Superwoman,' Alicia Keys sings powerful words that focus on hope, redemption and other vital life lessons on the leading track "It's On Again". She is rightfully joined forces with Kendrick Lamar and his mighty verses which strongly capture how we should tare through adversity. This inspirational collaboration is bonded with the funky sounds of Pharrell, who also help to co-write the smooth song. Last but definitely not least, composing credits got to Hans Zimmer who has a huge reputation that proceeds him, dating back to the 90's. His list of award winning movie soundtracks include, Lion King, Inception, Gladiator, Mission Impossible 2, Sherlock Holmes, The Lone Ranger, Man of Steel, Christopher Nolan's Batman Trilogy and many many more! 

Needless to say with a cast of such successful musicians, it is totally understandable why this song and video is so impressive. Watching the video alone, makes you want to secure your tickets today just to be sure there is no missing out on the action. Actually we suggest you go buy your tickets right after watching this star studded video!

Man On The Moon

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"We knew it was a man on the moon 😏 #manonthemoon #kidcudi #redmoon #lunareclipse #thelab3l "

Lab3L Alert, Have You Been Hacked?

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"They are calling it the biggest security breach in 12 years! Do yourself a favor and change all current passwords! #TheLab3lAlert #HeartbleedBug #weirdName #security #technology "

It comes at no surprise that NSA is allegedly behind the 'Heartbleed Bug Virus,' in fact hasbt this happened before?

I know most if you are wondering, what the heck is the the heartbleed bug, well we were to hence why we decided to give a little information on it.

Heartbleed Bug

Heartbleed is a hole in a security procedure that effects protecting  several web services, emails and websites. The security flaw was caused by a coding mistake and has been left as is for two years.

So to explain it simply, this bug allowed usernames, passwords and credit card information to be exposed. So yes, it's sort of a big deal, in fact there have been several attacks already reported. In order to make sure you're not the next victim, we encourage everyone to change their passwords to be safe.

The Lab3L, over and out!

The Lab3L presents.... Few 'One Beer Freestyle' Directed by We The Villains

Tonight we have the pleasure of having it first!

Celebrate with Few for the release of his One Beer Freestyle tonight!!

 If you don't know Few or FYI you will soon, to the world from the Westside of Chicago. The short film was shot by another Chicago name you should get familiar with, @WeTheVillans. 

Look out for more Music and Fashion from Few 

@Fewcobb @PATTYCloChicago via Twitter 

@FewforPatty via Instagram

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"Stay Tuned for a #Lab3LPremiere @fewforpatty "One Beer Freestyle" shot by @wethevillains #ChicagoMusic #ChicagoArtist #Music #OneBeer"

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The Instagram Team

Pharrell's 'i am OTHER' = Innovation + Creativity at It's Finest

Pharrell is not only fueling a successful creative collective but he has started an entire movement entitled, 'i am OTHER'. No wonder Pharrell is out here dancing for 24 hours singing about how happy he is. We would be happy too, if we started the year off with 'Producer of the Year,' award (along with other Grammy wins) to signing contracts with Adidas and now a collaboration with Uniqlo. Pharrell is proving to be a creative mogul in the entertainment and fashion world. 

Pharrell talks about 'i am OTHER'

Pharrell's " i am OTHER" showcases fashion trends, music, art, culture, and innovative ideas all on one platform. i am OTHER alone is an incredible force that introduces new perspectives on several types of art and creativity. For instance, Pharrell is responsible for a resourcefully, genuis, company like Bionic Yarn who produces textiles from recycled plastic. He even got big name companies such as Timberland,to use the durable materials for their own brands. If that isn't impressive enough, Pharrell's Non-Profit, From One Hand to Another has fueled the dreams of many young underprivileged children, giving them a reason to believe in their own dreams. Still not impressed? Well we've included a list of the companies that work in conjunction with i am OTHER, just to show of HUGE of a deal it really is. 

Go ahead, click a picture to learn a little more.

Where it all began. What's a collective started by Pharrell, without his classic flagship brand?

Bionic Yarn's main goal is to make a better thread, that makes a better world. Simple.

The Mecca of bike designers apparently live in Brooklyn cranking out some of the worlds coolest handmade bikes.

A group of investors set out to help fund creative entrepreneur project's who have goals to change the world.

A Non-Profit dedicated to bring resources and hope to help youth achieve their highest potential.

A community of artist who bring a good deal of luck, magic, friendship and of course cool art all on one platform.

 UJAMis a music platform that uses technology to make music fun, free and easy to create.

Even with all those remarkable projects independently holding their own, The art of fashion is still most recognizable.   Pharell is definitely a trend setter when it comes to style, making the anticipation expected. So lucky for all the stylish supporters, on April 24th, i am OTHER + Uniqlo will be revealing a collaboration for both men and women. This collection includes 14 different patterns and colors ways for apparel, as well as seven styles of baseball caps. Take a look at two of the designs that will be available in stores come April 24th. 

                    

Pharrell's ability to think outside the box and connect with like minded individuals in order to build a unique, effective and positive collective; shows that anything can be accomplished when we come together fully dedicated to a common goal. There is a hard working team to recognize, whose diligence helps i am OTHER to have the powerful impact it has in and outside the industry. We are truly excited to see what future amazing ideas will come from the collective. 

i am OTHER news:

Chance the rapper vs Nardwaur 

For other Videos, Music videos, interviews visit i am OTHER 

Look at different shows on I Am other- http://iamother.com  

Tune In Tuesday: SZA 'Z'

Today, TDE's first lady, SZA, dropped a new album titled, 'Z.' We featured SZA's "Teen Spirit" for our first tune-in Tuesday back in October, so we're pretty excited that she's back with an album. It includes features from Chicago's very own, Chance the Rapper and TDE members Kendrick Lamar and Isaiah Rashad.  Although she may be new to TDE, she's no newbie to the music game. She's also proving she can keep up with some heavy hitters. TDE's roster is stacked with talent and it doesn't stop with her. Stream the album below and vibe out to her melodic tunes!

 

Tune In Tuesday: 'Chi-raq' NIcki Minaj ft. Lil Herb

Now as much as we dislike the whole Chiraq phenom, who doesn't love a Nicki verse? This track is definitely laced with hard hitting bars making it a collaboration that reminds you Nicki can still spit.  From the looks of it we can expect more tracks from Nicki until the drop of her album, "Pink Print" So if you made the common mistake of writing off Nicki, take a listen to her latest drop below, it might change your mind, if all her other latest tracks have not.

#TuneInTuesday


Don't worry the play list will grow =)

Oh The Places You'll Go: Foodie Edition

One thing we love to do outside of listen to great music, watching a good movie or traveling is chewing down on some tasty food. As proclaimed foodies, we felt it was necessary to highlight some tasty restaurants around the nation. Be reminded this is only a snippet of what's to come, so do enjoy part one of many. Don't see a restaurant you think should be on here? Tweet us a recommendation we'd love to check it out.

Stubbs Bar-B-Q Austin, Texas 

Location: 801 Red River St

Speciality: BBQ

Stubb's Babeque started in 1968 by C.B. Stubblefield who had been cooking while serving in the Korean War. Upon leaving, he returned back to Austin and opened the barbecue joint Stubbs. Outside of being known for their delicious, falling off the bone Bar-B-Q, they also play live music making this the perfect place to visit while in Austin, Texas. One thing you can count on in Austin, is great food and even greater live music.

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Juniors Cheesecake Brooklyn, New York

Location: 386 Flatbush Avenue Extension

Specialty: The Sweeter Things in Life

Juniors was founded in 2006, known for their famous cheesecake. They call it " a taste of Brooklyn in the heart of Manhattan" and it is sure to melt your heart away just as every bite melts in your mouth. 

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Yeah Burger, Atlanta, Georgia 

Location: 1168 Howell Mill Rd 

Specialty: Organic American Cusine 

Yeah burger is a spin on fast food. They make sure their food is fresh and Eco-friendly. They don't have heavy processing and their animals are grazed (grass fed), so as advertised, "It's food  you can feel good about'. Not many restaurants can deliver on a turkey burger but Yeah Burger does it effortlessly. 

The Bison burger is a must try.

Source

Ned Ludd Portland, Oregon 

Location: 3925 NE MLK Blvd 

Specialty: American Wood Fire Oven

This is a simple American restaurant, that is known to prepare meals in a small wood fire oven. They specialize in Artisian food and their trout which is served with smoked potatoes is a fan favorite. If you're ever in Oregan, don't pass this place up.

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L'Ardoise Bistro San Francisco, California 

Location: 151 Noe St

Specialty: French Bistro

A perfect Parisian bistro right in the middle of Cali, Ardoise is known to deliver superb service down to the wonderfully prepared meals. With a great atmosphere we're almost sure you wouldn't want to leave. Cut little fact is that the menus are written on chalkboards, which is what the name 'Ardoise' translates to in English. Try the rack of Lamb, you will not regret it. 

Source

Alinea Restaurant  Chicago, Illinois

Location: 1723 N. Halsted

Specialty: Fine Dinning 

Alinea was recently named the world's best restaurant by "Private Jet Life Magazine," for the third consecutive year. Alinea is a fine dining restaurant, although it gets a bit pricy they have great reviews on presentation, taste, atmosphere, etc. When you really need to celebrate a joyus occasion like finally achieving a huge goal, Alinea will help you do it in style and decadence. 

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"What's in your closet? #REPOST from @nibiru__ #TheLab3L #DBM #Supreme #Hennessy #WGM #Tims "

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Spring/Summer '14 Films to Look Out For

This spring and summer looks very promising in the film department and we've made a list of some that we're excited to see. Check it out!



Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Release Date: April 4th
Starring: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Mackie

Captain America picks up two years after the events of The Avengers and is set in Washington D.C where Steve Rogers struggles to adapt to contemporary society. In this action packed film he joins forces with the Black Widow to stop am ememy hiding in D.C. Check it out this weekend!

Rio 2
Release Date: April 11th
Starring: Anne Hathaway, Jesie Eisenberg, Will.i.am

If anybody seen Rio (2011) we know you're excited to see the sequel! This time Blu, Jewel, and their three kids leave the city of Rio on a journey to the Amazon rainforest where they encounter the Macaws tribe. We don't want to give away too much of the plit so check out the trailer!

The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Release Date: May 2nd
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx

Peter Parker returns and continues to struggle between his two lifestyles. He also begins to look more into his father's past and realizes that OsCorp is the major problem and threat. Sounds intense!

X-Men: Days of Future Past
Release Date: May 23rd
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, James McAvoy

The film acts as a sequel to X-Men: The Last Stand and X-Men: First Class, as well as a follow-up to The Wolverine. The X-Men are facing extinction and fights a war for their survival across two tim periods. The characters from the original X-Men trilogy joing forces with their younger selves from X-Men: First Class. That definitely sounds cool and we're excited to see how it all plays out!

Maleficent 
Release Date: May 30th
Starring: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Juno Temple

Disney has gone dark and we're not too sad about it. The film stars Angelina Jolie and portrays the story of Sleeping Beauty from her perspective as the villian, Maleficent. It also stars Elle Fanning ( Dakota Fanning'a little sister) who plays Aurora, the king's daughter.

Think Like A Man Too 
Release Date: June 20th
Starring: Kevin Hart, Gabrielle Union, Taraji P. Henson, Michael Ealy

The awesome and talented cast from Think Like A Man has returned and this time in Vegas for a wedding. The trip turns into a classic women vs. men competition and the outcome may or may not surprise audience members.

Dawn of The Planet of the Apes
Release Date: July 11th
Starring: Jason Clarke, Judy Greer, Gary Oldman

Caesar returns as he leads the growing nation of genetically evolved apes when they are threatened by human survivors of the virus unleashed a decade earlier. The two sides try to make peace but eventually clash in order to decide who will become the dominant species on Earth.

The Purge: Anarchy
Release Date: July 18th
Starring: Frank Grillo, Zoe Soul, Michael K. Williams

Many were disappointed with the prequel when everything about the storyline seemed so promising but the actual execution of it blowed. Hopefully the sequel will make up for it because it actually looks good. The sequel starts at the beginning of another annual purge where a man sets out to get revenge on the killer of his son. He ends up helping a mother and daughter who were taken from their home and a couple left stranded on the highway as their car broke down right before the commencement of the annual purge. We hope this one doesn't dissapoint us.

Lucy
Release Date: August 8th
Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman

The film stars Scarlett Johansson as a superhuman by way of a drug implanted in her body. She can absorb knowledge instantaneously and is able to move objects with her mind but can't feel pain and other discomforts. Lucy uses her superpowers to fight agasint crooks in a world ran by the mob, street gangs, drug addicts and corrupt cops.

Samples of a Queen: Lauryn Hill

Let it be forever written that Lauryn Hill is the Queen of Hip Hop. What other MC can drop one album and maintain relevance decades after it's release. Classic. With 'Miseducation of Lauryn Hill', still selling to this day, no wonder artists are finding themselves sampling or covering her work.

Now a few days ago, Rap's golden child Drake released, 'Draft Day' that has a lot of people talking. Some are even comparing it to J. Cole's 'Cole Summer'(Mainly because they both sampled Ms. Hill.) Truth be told, both songs are cold and stand alone as dope samples, however making those side by side comparison ignore artists who have also sampled or covered Queen Hill's lovely ballads.

So to put you on game, The Lab3L has put together Top 10 covers and samples that were inspired by Lauryn Hill, Granted a few of the Queen's songs were also sampled but we'll cover that in another feature. For now, check out some of the coolest songs inspired by the Queen.

R&B 

10. "Ex Factor" 

covered by Beyoncé

First up, we have Beyonce who sang Ex Factor at her concert in Atlantic City. She changed a few notes but nothing to cray that could potentially ruin the classic. Besides, It's Queen B. Do you really think she'd embarrass herself and butcher a Lauryn Hill song?

9. "Lose Myself" 

covered by Marsha Ambrious

Marsha, Marsha, Marsha. With such a unique voice she could easily sell this song as her own. Slowing down the tempo allowed for her to add that sensual flavor she's known for. This version of 'Lose Myself' easily a favorite on her Late Nights and Early Mornings album. 

8. "Tell Him" 

covered by Esperanza Spalding 

In 2009, Esperanza Spalding was of few invited to the White House for an evening of Poetry and Music. She decided to perform and acoustic version of 'Tell Him' which she beautifully orchestrated. I mean the performance speaks for itself. 

HIP HOP

7. "Lost Ones" 
sampled by Jadakiss FT. Pharrell "Knock Yourself Out"

This here is a tricky one, while there is no musical sample Jadakiss did spit a bar demo 'Lost Ones' but cited Lauryn Hill.

6. "Doo Wop (That Thing)" 
sampled by Angel Haze "Doo Wop (That Thing)"

Angel Haze took a raw approach to a more softer song. But her version did gain her a lot of fans amongst out generation who can handle rough raw lyrics. However for some, this version of a classic uplifting song doesn't do it for them. What do you think?

5. "So much things to say" 
sampled by Method Man "Say"

Method Man kept it very Wu-Tangish with song. As most know, Wu Tang is known to have that F*** the industry type of approach with their music and he brought is back with this joint. Anytime an MC is speaking truth over a nice sample, you've got our attention. Take a Listen.

4. "Nothing Even Matters" 
sampled by J. Cole "Cole Summer"

Ahh, Mr. Cole. I don't know many people who didn't appreciate this song. Not only did Cole produce this record but he also sampled it perfectly. Anytime a rapper is being open and kicks a few bars directly to the fans, you have to love it. Cole shows love, and for that he gets love in return. Definitely one of our favorites.

3. "Doo Wop (That Thing)" 
sampled by Drake "Draft Day"

You know Drizzy had to do it for us. By us, we mean all the Lauryn Hill fans. But truthfully speaking, when has Drake ever disappointed? Drake continues to show he has clever and witty ways and telling you he's what's hot. Putting out heat after heat, this sample was just another stage for Drake to show up and show out. 

2. "Zion" 
sampled by J. Cole "Can I Holla at Ya"

J. Cole on Zion was probably one of the best musical things that could happen. Similarly to how Lauryn Hill told a personal story, Cole  gives us personal accounts from his life, showing us there's no better time than now to speak what's on your mind.  

1. "Mystery of Iniquity" 
sampled by Kanye West "All Falls Down"

At number one we chose The Kanye West everyone fell in love with. This soulful song was a mirror to many issues that people are still dealing with today. In addition, did Kanye kill this sample or what? We say yes, and for that this song will be timeless, and let's not forget Syleena Johnson came through in the clutch on the hook. Even the Grammy's agreed as this song was nominated for Best Hip Hop Collaboration. 

The original "All Falls Down" features Lauryn Hill, but due to legal issues as he was acquiring rights to that version, he found it was way took complicated to continue the pursuit. Instead, the track was released on Kanye's "Freshman Adjustment" Tape. You can listen to that version below.

World Autism Awareness Day

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"Today is World Autism Awareness Day. To bring awareness to the fastest growing developmental disorder, We want to give a few facts: 

*1 in 68 children are affected by Autism with boys being 5 times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. 

*Autism also receives less than 5% of funding amongst less peeve last childhood diseases from all funding resources. 

 Visit AutismSpeaks.org to learn more information, donate or see what you can do to help. #LightItUpBlue #LIUB #WAAD #AutismSpeaks "

Social Media: The Immaturity, Deception and Destruction

Depicting Age Off Image:

Instagram post, Doing it for the Vine, Tweeting like no Tomorrow, and Facebook  are doing more than just updating "your status" it's also showing your "posted age". Nowadays users are tweeting and uploading pictures that are not only irrelevant but childish.

"Doing it for the Vine" has turned into the genre of entertainment in which violence and self hurt is the current Blockbuster Hit. But how old are we to laugh at pure foolishness? Similar to the animations found in an episode of Looney Toons, brutality has been brought to life by the amount of videos created. And unfortunately, some live cartoons are not able to make it to the next episode due to the extremity of their stunt.  Seeing that many of the Instagram posts are side by side with some pictures of the user's child/children,  it would be better if they decided to mature for the sake of their child and reflect that they have a child.

Deceit: 

With so many different apps and sources of social media it's easy to get caught up in what's hot or not. It's also easy to totally recreate your self with that in mind. It seems as if people use accounts these days to portray somebody they wish to be more like. Let's admit it. Some people we meet through social media are totally different personality wise and even worse physically (for example the whole "catfish" phenomenon).

 They don't exactly strike you as being the same person whose tweets may show up on your timeline. Hopefully there comes a time when when we won't be so caught up in all this social media that we forgot what it's like to actually interact with a person. The internet can be a scary place because a person can be anybody they want but what's the fun in that if it's a front? Social media has helped produce some really deceitful people and we're wondering if this is what it's really going to be as long as it's here. 

"Maybe if we open our eyes to the truth about photoshop, we can photoshop ourselves a new #perspective."

                                                                     - College Humor

Socially Destructive 

Social Networking began as a fun place to interact with friends to see what's going on in your perspective social group. It has now grown to be a world wide, melting pot of entertainment, drama and destruction. There are plenty individuals who have pushed social media over the edge and has taken some of the simple fun along with it. 

For one, there are many points where privacy is invaded for the sake of laughs or a couple of likes. No one is thinking twice about how embarrassed the subject may feel or how they may even be breaking the law. While it seem strange that at some parties or events, videographers are protecting themselves by having consent forms on hand. By acknowledging the privacy of individuals, professionals are able to protect themselves from any potential lawsuit.

At any rate, social media users are ignoring the seriousness of boundaries, which if it continues, victims could press charges on the grounds of cyber harassment or bullying. So think twice about the world you're creating on social media, you don't want it to all come crashing down on you. 

#Message!

March Madness Recap!

March Madness is coming to an end. Expectations started out at an all-time with Warren Buffet offering ONE BILLION DOLLARS to anyone who picked a perfect bracket. The dream of a billion dollars ended early for most with Duke being upset by small time Mercer in the first round. Things only got more interesting with the upsets of Cincinnati, Oklahoma State and Ohio State. Dayton took the role of Cinderella this by beating Ohio State, Syracuse and Kansas before losing to the overall #1 seed Florida.

Dayton celebrating after beating Syracuse

Let's not forget about Doug McDermott, the 6'8 scoring machine aka Dougie McBuckets! Finishing his college career at Creighton fifth on the all-time men's scoring list. This is hands down the craziest March Madness I've seen in my time of watching basketball. 

Dougie McBuckets

             60 went home and 4   

                     still dancing!

Who you got? Imma take Kentucky. Lead by the freshman bull in a china shop Julius Randle with 4 more blue chip freshman. Don't count out Florida and their defense or the Kemba-ness of Shabazz Napier of UCONN! 

Julius Randle

Tune In Tuesday: Mapei ft Chance The Rapper "Don't Wait"

We are not really sure where Mapei came from, but we are definitely happy we came across her. This Stockholm native appeared in the music scene in October with her single, 'Don't Wait,' now April and there are 5 different remixes to this vocally unique and mesmerizing song. The remix featuring Chance The Rapper is the version that snagged our ears. Check it out for yourself below, we guarantee you will want to have this in your collection. 

Mapei also released an EP with all 5 remixes that can be purchased on iTunes. Be sure to catch out the cool visuals. Can't wait to hear more from this mellow lady.

Femme Fatale (2 Free TIX) Contest!!

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"CHICAGO: Want 2 FREE TIX to see @SashaGoHard perform at Reggie's on April 3??? 

 Well all you have to do is: 

 1. Follow @TheLab3L on Twitter AND Instagram

 2. Repost/Tweet this picture. 

 3. Tag '#TheLab3L' in your post and tweet!! 

GO!! Tell your friends to increase your chance of winning. Contest and Concert presented by On The Grind Management. #giveaway #free #concert #hiphop #chicago #nuttyworld #sashagohard #TheLab3L #Reggies "

Will you be the wonder of 'The Lab3L's Official Guveaway????

Two Visions Creating One

Here at The Lab3l we love finding out about different artists we've never heard of before. We also love seeing our own friends bring their beautiful ideas to life. If you haven't seen or heard of Double Vision you should get hip soon because their future is very bright.

                         (Image by @twjohns)

The duo, Sophie and Dominique, is based in Asutin, Texas and recently launched their blog which will "document personal connections, natural experiences and honest emotions." Sounds cool right? We wouldn't steer you wrong. Check out their video documenting their SXSW experience below. You can also follow them on instagram and twitter @ATXDoubleVision !

SXSW 2014 by Double Vision from Double Vision on Vimeo.

See more from Double Vision on their blog http://doublevisionatx.tumblr.com.

-LAB