Michelle Obama inspires me on so many levels, bellas.

She inspires me in terms of her poise, her grace, her accomplishments, her style, and in the way that she makes health and fitness a priority. I’m trying to do the same in my life, and the First Lady’s workout regimen inspires me.

Check out this Oprah interview for details – Michelle Obama is into the treadmill, weights, jump rope and kickboxing! Myself, I’m trying to get there. She wakes up at 4:30 a.m. to work out! I’m nowhere hear as fit as the FLOTUS is, but I agree completely with her statement to Oprah, “I realized that my happiness is tied to how I feel about myself.”

That’s how I feel as well, but exercise is a daily struggle right now that I’m hoping to make into a habit. One thing Mrs. O and I do have in common right now – a killer workout playlist of our favorite tunes to work up a sweat to! Via Women’s Health and Soulbounce, this is the First Lady’s workout playlist!

1. Stevie Wonder – “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)”
2. Beyoncé – “Move Your Body (Let’s Move Theme)”
3. Janelle Monáe – “Tightrope”
4. Sara Bareilles – “Love Song”
5. Michael Jackson – “Unbreakable”
6. Willow Smith – “Whip My Hair”
7. Beyoncé – “I Was Here”
8. Chubb Rock – “Treat ‘Em Right”
9. Ledisi – “Thank You”
10. Jennifer Lopez – “Get Right”

I have a workout playlist too – click here for all of it but be forewarned, some of it gets a little profane! But I’ll share my favorite PG-13 tracks right here with you. Maybe you like to work up a sweat to a few of these as well!

Afrobella’s Workout Motivation Playlist

1. Audio Two – Top Billin’

When you first get on the treadmill or elliptical, you need a tune that will get you moving and grooving and happy to be there. The beat on this is perfect for beginning my workout. And the braggadocio in the lyrics makes me feel like obviously I’m about to ACE this workout.

2. M.I.A – Bad Girls

I kinda drifted from my love for M.I.A for a minute there but this song and this VIDEO brought me right back. Bad Girls is everything I loved about M.I.A back in the day – undeniable beats, nonchalant “rapping” and sneering attitude for days. This puts swagger in my workout step. And HOW AMAZING is this video? Imagine being on THAT set!

3. Alison Hinds – Faluma

Soca is PHENOMENAL workout music. Specifically recorded and intended to move a crowd to dancing for days at a time, it is high energy music that won’t let you quit until you’re sweaty. It is ideal for exercising – in NYC, there are even Socamotion workout classes to teach you how to get in shape in time for Carnivals around the world! And Barbados’ own Alison Hinds has been my workout inspiration from the moment I first heard this song! You may remember this 2008 post about Allison that details the history of the song. Alison’s version of Faluma was first recorded in 1997 and it goes just as hard today as it did then. Put that in your headphones when on the treadmill and let me know what you think!

4. Beyonce – Countdown

Can a workout playlist be complete without Queen Bey? I say NAY. I absolutely loved the video for Countdown when it dropped and there’s something about the pace of the song that sends me head over heels in love. It makes me want to dance, and there’s nothing wrong with dancing through your workout!

5. Michael Jackson – Workin’ Day and Night

I’d also venture to say that a workout playlist without a little Michael Jackson is INCOMPLETE. The FLOTUS loves latter period MJ. For me, the frenetic rhythm of Working Day and Night powers me through even the most challenging of interval training peaks.

6. Justin Timberlake – My Love

When will Justin Timberlake take a break from Hollywood film sets and get back in the studio with Timberland? They’re an unstoppable combination! Until quite recently I’d forgotten HOW HARD this song goes in my headphones – can you believe this dropped in 2006? Can’t wait for new music from these two, for now it’s Justified and Future Sex/Love Sounds on repeat.

7. Lil Jon – Snap Yo Fingers

I hope y’all aren’t judging me. What can I say, Lil Jon is a great motivator! (Yeah!) The beat of this song is what it’s all about to me (because of course it can’t be the lyrical content). Most of Lil Jon’s songs make my workout go by a little bit faster. I know I can’t be the only one still getting down to crunk music on the downlow.

8. Gnarls Barkley – Go Go Gadget Gospel

This is a GREAT outdoor workout song because Cee-Lo’s voice truly SOUNDS like freedom when he lets loose. His voice is so unique and soaring. I love Cee-Lo! I think he’s a genius for many reasons. But this song right here? Makes me feel like running (and I’m so not there yet in my workout attempts).

9. Sheila E – The Glamorous Life

LOVE Prince, and this song is such an elliptical banger for a few reasons! ALL of those reasons are Sheila E. The DRUMS in this song are on another level! Something about this song makes me feel cute even when I’m dripping with sweat.

10. Jack White – I’m Shakin’

I’m a BIG Jack White fan, and I am flipping over his latest album, Blunderbuss. I don’t normally turn to Mr. White for workout music material, but this song right here fits the bill! It’s a cover of Little Willie John’s 1960’s hit, and that’s ANOTHER reason I love Jack White, he always pays homage to musicians of yore and introduces them to his audience. I discovered Little Willie John because of this song, and his life story is fascinating. Cannot WAIT for Jack White at Lollapalooza this year!

And that’s what’s getting me up and moving these days! My complete Spotify Workout Motivation playlist is right here. What’s on your workout playlist? Share and I’ll add my faves to my Spotify list!

When you think of Jody Watley, very specific visuals might come to mind. Sleek hair. Bangin’ brows. Hoop earrings. A matte red lip. When I visualize Jody Watley, I always envision her in an all black ensemble. And for me that’s entirely because Jody Watley was one of my earliest beauty icons. Her Eighties hits like Looking For a New Love, Don’t You Want Me, Real Love, and Friends were in regular rotation on BET when that was my daily diet of TV, and they helped to shape my definition of beauty.

I have always had so much love for Jody Watley as an artist. And now she continues to make amazing music and she also has an incredible style blog — please do yourself a favor and check out JodyWatley.net for a much needed dose of style and glamour from of the best to ever do it!

When I went to the Beautylish Beauty Social last year, Jody greeted me with warmth and kindness, and even made a point to attend the Brown Girl Beauty Uncensored panel I participated in. Honored was NOT the word. I was so absolutely thrilled that she would do something like that!

Jody is as beautiful inside as she is out. We first met at the home of legendary makeup artist Billy B, and they told me all about the video they worked on together for A Beautiful Life. Directed by the insanely handsome and talented Mike Ruiz, with flawless makeup by Billy B, Jody is transformed into myriad looks to display the range of her gorgeousness. And in case you missed Billy’s interview about the amazing experience – click here to read Billy B on makeup, being a legend, and Jody!

Must have been A LOT of fun on that shoot! I was lucky enough to catch up with the beautiful and talented Jody Watley, and ask her questions for Afrobella.com. We discuss music, her personal history as an artist, the shoot for A Beautiful Life and her love for Billy, and her beauty and hair favorites! Read on, bellas!

The Afrobella Interview — Jody Watley

Afrobella -   Of course anyone who’s reading this blog would instantly know who you are, but I always love to ask people to define themselves. So for anyone who was born and raised under a rock and doesn’t know, who is Jody Watley?

Jody Watley — I’d just send them to my website and say “It’s all there”  to be honest, LOL! In short-form I’m a Grammy winning artist – Best New Artist of 1987. It’s been written that I’m one of the defining and trendsetting artists of the 80′s at my pinnacle – I’ve learned to really appreciate what that means because thousands of artists release music every year without an impact. My style and music videos it has been written – raised the bar for women in music – not just black artists which I find to be really humbling.

I am also the first artist to blend Pop/R&B and have a Hot 100 Top Five single with a customized 16 bar verse and guest rapper with Eric B. and Rakim – obviously that formula continues to dominate the charts. When Eric B and Rakim and I did “Friends” it was called a ‘duet’, because no one knew how to refer to it. It’s been written in a couple of books already about the history and evolution of Hip-Hop… that’s a little of who I am..I’m also a songwriter of the majority of my songs and not just eye candy, lol (had to say that). So, that’s a little of who I am – as an artist.

Afrobella -  Fans have watched you grow up right before our eyes, from the days of Shalamar and Soul Train to the Eighties, and right on up to now where you’ve been in control of your musical destiny. When you look back on your career, which three performances are your favorites?

Jody Watley — Thank you! Well, I’ve always been in control of my musical career since I went solo – with God’s grace, strength and wisdom…and of course my freestyle Soul Train days.

My Mom recently asked me if I remember telling her very matter of factly at 4 years old that I had started my own modeling agency, LOL! I’ve always had big dreams. My first stage appearance was with my godfather soul music great Jackie Wilson. It’s impossible to pick a favorite performance – my most recent shows in Japan were awesome – I really try to appreciate being in the moment and feel each opportunity I choose to take is special.

That said, every Arsenio Hall Show performance whether I was doing up-tempo/ jazz or inspirational (Friends, Your Love Keeps Working On Me, After You Who, It All Begins With You, etc). The MTV Awards, The Beacon in NYC, Gibson Amphitheatre some of the footage captured in my ‘Everything’ video..performing with Stevie Wonder for his Skeletons MTV Special, The White House by special invitation, Lifeball (Europe’s biggest AIDS Charity Gala) in Austria a couple of years ago was so fabulous and over the top and the biggest stage I’ve performed on  — so many…being a part of Band Aid..I can go on. God is good and I’m so thankful to have the opportunities I’ve been given.

Afrobella -  Would you say you have a signature look? I would say you change the hair but there’s a timeless quality to your look. If you had to describe the look that’s become synonymous with Jody Watley, what would you call it?

Jody Watley – Most people say the jumbo hoop earrings. I went looking for the biggest ones I could find. I wore big hoops in junior high – of course not a big, but the big ones for that time. I’ve also worn an afro off and on since junior high.

My solo debut my style was more street chic funky trendy and with punk rock edge (lots of black the metal belts with spikes, short studded biker boots, etc) my desire was to create timeless classic images. Mixed with that were high end designers like Gaultier (preceding Madonna), and Issey Miyake and also vintage – I’ve always added vintage since my Soul Train days.

I’m a true chameleon in that I’ve changed so much and adapted to so many styles that I like and have made them my own. The jumbo hoops are still here  – not just for me but I see them on other young singers on the commercial radar, reality stars, in fashion editorials etc..my style has always evolved. Toward the end of the 6 years I was in Shalamar I was heavily into Vivienne Westwood / World’s End. My solo debut was trendy with a rock girl edge..my second album went in a more high fashion direction with Steven Meisel shooting the album cover. David Fincher doing the video for ‘Real Love’ – all of that was a bit of the fashion curve at the time. All of it holds up which was my goal – to have everything from the start be as authentic as possible. “Still a Thrill” in Paris – was funky and chic at the same time. It was all un-choreographed freestyle, which was and is different than most ‘dance’ videos. Other than make-up, I was my own glam squad (no stylist) on the style tip – also very unique to other artists.

My third and fourth albums ‘Affairs of The Heart’ (Tailored suits) and ‘Intimacy’ (Bohemian chic) were more introspective and I really didn’t want the focus so much on the fashion so I took things down a notch but still very me.

Afrobella - I want to talk hair with you! In your stunningly directed video A Beautiful Life, you go through many hair transformations. Of course my favorite was the big, fabulous afro!! What was your favorite look from the video, and if you don’t mind me asking, how are you wearing your hair now? Any favorite products or recommendations?

Jody Watley – Thank you! ‘A Beautiful Life’ was written as one of two new songs I’d written for my last album in 2006 ‘The Makeover’, which was an ambient electronic covers album. I released it directly to a major retailer and it was #1 for them – really cool on the entrepreneurial side for me. The project had 3 Top Five Dance Singles on Billboard, with one of them, the makeover of the CHIC classic “I Want Your Love” giving me a 13th #1 Dance Single. “A Beautiful Life” was #5 and I wrote it with the thought of writing a song for women or anyone in a bad or unhealthy relationship. “I’d rather be living on my own, then to live in a constant state of misery…because I’m stronger, wiser and feeling beautiful” are a couple of my favorite lines. So, I write what I live or think other’s are living – always have, all of my songs tell a story – old and now. I have to say that, because when you’re not in the Top 40 the average person assumes an artist isn’t doing anything..sometimes that’s true but not for me.

I think that’s what everyone should aim for. Life is too short to settle for less. I’m not talking about money and superficial things in the song.

My favorite is the Philip Treacy cyborg hat. It was a fun day of hair and make-up with Mike Ruiz and Billy B. We were doing a photo session / video.

As far as products, I have so much stuff, my bathroom can double as a beauty supply. I’m always trying new things. I’m currently big on natural things you can keep in your kitchen, olive, coconut, jojoba and vitamin E oils — they all have natural anti-aging anti-oxidants. I like making my own concoctions. I recently did a coconut milk, coconut oil and avocado mask for my hair – it was fantastic. Fresh cold milk soaked eye pads are great to whiten and depuff the eyes. I recently started using that because I suffer from allergies, which can make my eyes puffy. It works, it’s also soothing. Fresh cold cucumbers work of course as well, but the milk is really something!

I also use a jade roller to ward off wrinkles – although my Mom is in her 70′s and doesn’t really have many wrinkles – so I made get lucky, LOL! But jade is an Eastern tool that’s been around for centuries. It’s also a great de-stressor, very relaxing. We’re all more beautiful with less stress!

Afrobella – You worked with makeup legend Billy B on that video, and he’s such an inspiration to me. Billy does such amazing work, particularly with women of color in my opinion. Talk to me about working with Billy – what’s it like, and what do you love most about him?

Jody Watley — We first worked together on the artwork for “The Makeover”, including the special effects faux plastic surgery photo’s for the inside booklet, inspired by a layout I’d seen in VOGUE Italia featuring Linda Evangelista photographed by Steven Meisel called “Makeover Madness”. I thought OMgosh, this will work for the album. Getting older in this business of course you see people painfully trying to hang on to their youth with plastic surgery and I wrote a bit on the inside about the unbalanced view we have now on what beautiful is and the lengths people go to erase father time. Anyway – that’s when I met Billy, in NYC for the session with Mike Ruiz. The second was the video for “A Beautiful Life”, and then fabulous “Lifeball” in Vienna, Austria…and a test session we did for ‘Chameleon’ – which I LOVE.

I adore that Billy is a southern gentleman. One would expect him to be a prima donna or full of attitude.  He knows his craft is so down to earth in a genuine way. Billy is collaborative yet very honest.  I remember him telling someone it’s not about the bag – it’s what’s IN the bag – and of course how to use it when giving advice to up and coming artists. That’s Billy. He also turned me on the fried olives, which I’d never heard of, lol. We had them at lunch once at one of his favorite Italian restaurants. No one does lashes on me like Billy – I want to say!

Afrobella – What’s your philosophy about beauty?

Jody Watley — I recently came across an article with me in my late teen’s from my Shalamar days and I was talking about the importance on taking care of yourself and to be happy and wanting to age well. It made me smile to see the younger me was already on the right path. I still agree with that – it’s from the inside – out. It’s how I raised my daughter – using your intellect and brains is beautiful. I made sure she knew her brown skin was beautiful. Much of what we feel about ourselves comes from our home environments and so parents must be mindful and diligent as teachers, role models and cheerleaders of our own children.

We are beautiful – in all of our diversity of hues, features, hair textures, personalities, shapes and sizes and so on. Growing up I had pics of a range of women I looked up to in addition to my own Mom – from Beverly Johnson, Diana Ross Judy Pace, Diahann Carroll,Nina Simone, activist Angela Davis – as well as Janice Dickinson and Twiggy. You can have a pretty face and be ugly – because of your actions or character. If you are miserable – it will show..so inside – out. A smile and a pleasant face can be beautiful. A positive attitude is beautiful.

It’s a blessing to grow older but it can be tough in that women are said to become more invisible the older we get. For me as I get older, it’s about doing it with grace. You can still be fly and fabulous but it’s about finding what works – wherever you are today.

Everyone has to define beauty for themselves, though I do think we are often too hard on ourselves, and the media doesn’t help. So it’s important to learn to love and appreciates ourselves; while always leaving room for improvement but not beating ourselves up about it. This sounds cliché but it’s true. Validate yourself and all that is distinctly you.

The title song of my forthcoming album is ‘Chameleon’ and the title song is about us as women, mothers, wives/ex-wives, daughters, etc – and all that we do and the changes we go through and not just our appearance – our journey.

Afrobella -  What are your favorite products right now? Skincare, makeup, perfume?

Jody Watley – I’ve been a longtime products fanatic – my bathroom is like a beauty supply store, LOL! I try new things all the time. Obviously, I’ve become very focused over the last 15 years on anti-aging treatments and creams. Retinol, etc. I answered this one above when speaking about how I use olive oil, etc…

I don’t wear much perfume I’m more of a scented cream or oils person but though I like Annick Goutal Petite Cherie, it’s very light. The coconut oil mixed with a touch of vanilla oil always seems to get a great reaction when I put that together. I like the soft scent of fresh roses. Monoi Tiare Tahiti Oil is yummy. When I wear my curly fro’ I really like what ‘Curls’ Coconut Sublime Conditioner does.

Make-up is a combination of Chanel, MAC, Kett, NARS and on and on! I love false eyelashes, and crazy about the range of choice in nail polish available now. My favorite lip colors at the moment are NARS Falbala and Clinique Chubby Stick 07 Super Strawberry – for a more natural mouth.

Rosebud Salve is one of my must-have at all times products. I keep it in my car and purse. It’s multi-purpose for quick fix dry skin (hands), lips (an instant gloss), hair (sheen), and it of course smells divine.

Also for dry hair — I love Moroccan Argan Oil.

Afrobella -   Tell me about A Beautiful Life – what message do you want your fans to get from the track?

Jody Watley — Aspire to be in a healthy, uplifting and empowering environment – personally and professionally. We all deserve it – believe that and don’t let anyone make you think / believe otherwise about your self worth and value. If you’re in an abusive environment – get out and don’t look back other than to remember the lessons you’ve learned.

Afrobella -  What new and exciting musical projects are you working on?

Jody Watley — My thoughts on releasing more albums continues to shift though I remain immersed in creativity of all forms – music remains a passion but I’m realistic in today’s sales climate – especially for established veteran artists. My last album in 2006 was an exclusive with the Virgin Megastore chain directly through continued entrepreneurial side. ‘The Makeover’ was #1 for them as they worked to bring consumers back to the brick and mortar retail experience. The album which is available at iTunes debuted at #3 Top Electronic Albums which was cool.

“Chameleon”, will be my 10th full length and touches in part on my early Disco/Funk influences which of course is also full circle for me as my career started back then first as a dancer on Soul Train and then as a member of the group Shalamar. Additionally, the music oozes with soulful dance and electronic music my genre since 1999.  I plan on releasing a summer single titled ‘Nightlife’ which is inspired by my love of 70′s disco funk.

I’ve also done two fun guest vocal appearances with Canadian Electro-Pop band “French Horn Rebellion” as well as Stones Throw’s international modern funk artist Dam-Funk which I believe will be out this summer.

I’ve been doing select live dates to preview my new music, celebrate the 25th anniversary of my solo debut..and all of the other great music I’ve been known for the past few decades.

I have  literary aspirations in books that can translate to TV and film. I’ve loved writing since I was a child. I started writing poetry and short stories, which evolved into novels at 12 – which turned into songwriting. So, I’m looking forward to that next chapter – writing more. My children aren’t children anymore and so I have more freedom now. My #1 goal, in the midst of having a successful career was to be a great Mom and give my children a great foundation – and for the time I was married to be a great wife.

With my longtime associated with style and fashion I’m working on line of figure flattering pants for full figured women in particular – inspired by the creator of Spanx!

Basically, I’m adding to my goals and dreams and looking forward to the next chapters of my life and career.

I also maintain my own Style and Beauty Blog, which was in part inspired by Afrobella

Afrobella -  For anyone who has looked to your career as an inspiration and wanted to be like you…what’s your advice?

Jody Watley  — Be the best YOU, everyone else is already taken!

Seeing as we lost a legend yesterday, I had to ask Jody for a statement on the loss of Donna Summer. Jody has weighed on on her blog and you can read her post here. She shared this with me:

“Not simply “Disco” Donna Summer also ruled “Pop” Music radio and charts. Her double albums were/are unparalleled concept albums, few did them better male or female in any genre – her releases for me were events.  I couldn’t wait to see the cover art, read the liner notes and listen to the music, much of which she helped write.

Donna Summer also brought elements into the mainstream fusing Rock (Hot Stuff) with dance – one of her Grammy’s was in Rock..she really worked all genres and was such an inspiration to me in dance/pop. I also understood when she reached a point of not wanting to be put into a box and that she continued to work and create good music up through her last release a couple of years ago.

When I signed my solo deal with MCA, the executive who signed had worked with Donna Summer during her Casablanca years – which made it easier for him to understand and trust me..and to galvanize the company to market and promote me out of the box.

The current dominance of dance music that young artists have jumped on is rooted in disco .. electro, techno is simply another extension and so I hope they know she’s another artist whose shoulders they stand on.”

Bellas do yourself a favor and check out Jody’s blog right here. You can also follow her on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Thank you for being so amazing, so inspiring, and so accessible, Jody!

What’s your favorite Jody Watley song, bellas?

If you’re a blogger who’s serious about advancing your craft, who’s interested in networking and being part of the greater community of bloggers, then you should definitely be going to conferences. There are blogger conferences for every niche of the internet. I’ve been to more than a few in my time, and there’s one that I really make an effort to make it to every year. That would be Blogging While Brown.

What I love about Blogging While Brown is the camaraderie and the community. So many of us came up alongside each other and we hardly ever get to be in the same room together. So many of us are at varying stages of being a blogger, and have much to learn from each other. And despite the disparity of the topics we blog about, we bond over our shared experiences. To me, Blogging While Brown has the feel of a family reunion. And I can’t wait to be reunited on June 1!  I’m speaking on an awesome panel presented by BlogHer! Some of my best friends in the blogosphere will be there! AND I’m hosting the Saturday night afterparty!

Wanna come with me? No…seriously. Do you?

Shamon!! It’s the EDEN BodyWorks & Afrobella Blogging While Brown Scholarship Giveaway (in case you somehow missed my title above)!

The beautiful people at EDEN BodyWorks are partnering with me and Blogging While Brown to offer one lucky New York based blogger the opportunity to attend the conference this year!!!

What do you win?

– (1) NYC blogger’s attendance to the conference covering transportation to/from NYC to Philly, hotel for two nights, and ground transportation. 

What do you have to do?

Click right here to read the official rules and enter, and tell us about your blog, including a link to your best post. Then tell us why YOU deserve to attend Blogging While Brown. Oh and PLEASE NOTE – I am NOT judging this contest! I know far too many fabulous New York based bloggers to be able to choose. The folks at EDEN will help to make the call! I’m just your hostess with the mostest

How do you enter one more time? Click right here to enter your info!! This contest ends May 23. And whoever the lucky winner is, I’ll be seeing you in Philly!!

Good luck!!

When I read the headline on TMZ, my heart sank right into my stomach. The Queen of Disco, the woman who contributed so much glamour and glitter to the soundtrack of my life, Donna Summer, has died of cancer at age 63.

This year has been awful, in terms of losing my childhood musical icons.

Donna Summer’s music was most essential in my earliest childhood years. Songs like Hot Stuff, Bad Girls, and On The Radio were in regular rotation on Trinidadian radio just as it was in America and around the world. In the Seventies and Eighties, Donna Summer’s music was inescapable. Infectious. Everything. These were my favorites of her phenomenal songs.

I was born in 1979, so I knew Donna’s Eighties hits best. I remember having a dance to She Works Hard For The Money that SO didn’t reference or comprehend what the song was even ABOUT.

State of Independence was my jam when I was a kid. Produced by Quincy Jones, Donna Summer’s cover of State of Independence featured a ridiculous all star choir in the background. Those are the combined voices of Michael Jackson, Brenda Russell, James Ingram, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Loggins, Lionel Richie and Stevie Wonder. (Thank you, Wikipedia).

I didn’t know Love to Love You until my teenage years and I definitely remember the first time I heard it. And once you heard it, you could never forget it. That’s the sound of a woman in control and fully aware of her sensuality, and I love it. Nobody could do this song justice like Donna did.

I Feel Love is evocative of an era and of a feeling. To me, I Feel Love is flowing dresses with bell sleeves, sequins and lame, sunglasses at night, and Studio 54 in its opening year. If you close your eyes, you can almost visualize yourself under the twinkling disco balls of yore. Listening to I Feel Love, you can see what the future looked like from 1977.

Donna Summer was a private woman and many have commented that they had no idea she was sick. She lived in Key West, one of my favorite places in the world. I hope her last days were spent surrounded by the love of her family and dearest friends, in comfort and peace.

You gave the world so much beautiful music.  Thank you, Donna Summer. RIP.

When I first opened my eyes to the world of beauty and makeup and possibility that I too, might be an attractive girl in my own right….there was the makeup of Billy B to guide me.

In case you don’t know, the celebrity makeup artist who today is beloved for his work on RuPaul’s Drag Race, who helped to make Lady Gaga LADY GAGA, thanks to his ingenious makeup work and creativity, was THE MAN with the makeup brushes behind the scenes of some of the most influential music videos of the Nineties and 2000’s. Missy Elliott’s She’s a B*tch. Destiny’s Child’s Independent Women. Mariah Carey Emotions. Lauryn Hill’s Ex Factor. TLC’s Waterfalls. HE DID THAT.

Billy is a living legend, highly sought after for his talents. But despite all of the famous clients, he remains at heart a sweet country boy from Aberdeen, Mississippi.

I have had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Billy before – the first time was at The Makeup Show in Miami in 2008, before I was a full time beauty blogger! I can tell you from personal experience, Billy is a lovely person, self-effacing and genuine and wonderful. He has a big, magnificent, colorful personality and is never anything less than 100% himself.

This interview covers a wide range of what makes Billy B an awesome guy. We talk about makeup for women of color, his incredible work on Jody Watley for A Beautiful Life, where his skills came from, and even the motivation that fuels his most recognizable work. The language gets a little more raw and real and Rated R than it usually is here on Afrobella, but HEY. It’s BILLY B. The man tells it like it is and pulls no punches. But I edited so bellas of all ages can still read this at work despite whatever filters there may be!

Afrobella – Billy, you’re so well known to so many, but I always love beginning an interview by asking the artist to introduce themselves. For anyone who’s totally ignorant to the world of makeup, please tell us who you are, and what makes you such a well known, well respected makeup artist.

Billy B — My name is Billy Brasfield, but you might know me as Billy B. and for those of you that haven’t heard my name before, I am a makeup artist. I am from a small town in Mississippi called Aberdeen. I was born in 1963, I have 2 siblings, Pam who lives in Tupelo Mississippi, and 1 brother who lives in …. Um, I forget. UGH. That’s terrible. But it is true.

I am self-taught, and that happened only because I lied to get a job at Macy’s Herald Square. Macy’s had an opening in cosmetics, I needed to pay rent, I taught myself how to do makeup, to keep my job. I have no idea, how the rest of the story happened, but I have been a makeup artist since.

From my 20+ years as a makeup artist, I have become most known for being “a white boy that can beat the hell out of a “Colorful Face”. Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Well, name a woman of color and I have probably touched her face at least once. … I even did Juanita Bynum. See, told you.

Afrobella — For me, your work on women of color has been so incredibly inspiring. From Missy Elliott to TLC to Lauryn Hill to Beyoncé and now Jody – you’ve worked with so many icons in black music. As a makeup artist, what do you love about working with women of color?

Billy B — Thank you very much! I like a challenge. Ok, that doesn’t sound right (giggle) but when I was working on the Main Floor Cosmetics at the Ultima 2 counter, Flori Roberts was across from us.

The girls at FB were a whole lot more fun than my counter (although we did have a fierce b**** named Priscilla at our counter. She was the s***. We used to do (let’s say less than legal) things in the stock room. (Don’t hate, it was the 80’s) I lived for her, but I couldn’t learn anything from her because Ultima’s darkest color was “off white” ha ha But over at FB honey, COLOR!!!!!!! So anytime we got an “other than white” girl at Ultima, I took her over to FR and beat the hell out of her. I made it my business to learn. I had 0 knowledge of makeup. I mean Zip. So I’m sure I beat a GREY face more than once…. Maybe twice….

Then I learned quick, that…

1. Every woman of color has a unique skin tone unique to them, and the range of skin tons is endless.

2. When doing makeup for women of color, think out of the box. The most artificial colors can look perfectly natural on darker skin.

3. Darker skin tones LOVE makeup. You can paint paint paint and it still looks great.

4. When you are a makeup artist doing female celebrities of color, catering is better.

I am very proud of the work I’ve done with women of color!

Afrobella – What tips and advice do you have to share in terms of makeup for women of color? Any favorite brands in terms of foundations?

Billy B – I like Black Opal Stick foundation and Face Atelier Liquid foundation. Women of color can get away with heavier cream foundations, and some need it. Many women have several different shades of brown happening between the forehead and the neck…and some women want to even that out into one uniform shade. Maybe that’s why back in the day, there were primarily heavy liquid or crème stick foundations available. Now I think women of color approach their look differently. In many ways I think they have been “liberated.” More women are celebrating their differences instead of “blending in”.

Afrobella — Talk to me about Jody Watley. I realize not every makeup artist becomes friends with their celeb clients, but you and Jody certainly seem to be more than just client/artist. There’s a love and camaraderie there. How long have you known each other? What was your first project together?

Billy B — I have loved Jody’s work for years, but that changed the day we met. I fell in love with Jody as a person, a Human Being.

Jody Watley isn’t and has never been typical. The fact is that Jody is exactly the opposite., she is exceptional. I love her for that. I don’t “friend” my clients, to be brutally honest, I have more to gain from them as a makeup artist. I made a conscious decision to pursue knowing Jody. My admiration for her as a person was strong enough, that I was willing to blur the line that I had “drawn” to keep a safe professional distance from my clients.

But I knew I could with Jody. I knew I could benefit from her STAR. Not her fame, but I wanted to be in her light. Jody Watley is a Star. She is one of the brightest Stars I have had the pleasure of knowing. She Is everything I live for in a female… She is kind, clever, talented, funny, stylish a devoted Mother on top of course an iconic POP STAR! Its almost too much for this middle aged homosexual to bear. “snicker” God given beauty, incredibly good taste, face painted, hair snatched, sickening choreography, need I list anymore??? I didn’t think so.

I realize now, that Jody is one of the 1^st to “BRAND” I don’t know if she thought of her style that way then, but it was. Jody established a unique, strong modern style that she “owned.”

I don’t know if I have ever said this to her, but she should be very proud of that. Its not easy to do. I mean, how many artists, years later can say that their name is literally used as a fashion or beauty reference. Yes honey, give me Jody Watley.

IE Sickening matte red lip

Strong natural but defined brow

Snatched back Hhigh pony

A classic door knocker hoop earring.

Jeans

Black leather

Boots

Afrobella — A Beautiful Life is a beautiful showcase of Jody — of how iconic her look is. She’s such a classic beauty. What was the vision going into this project?

Billy B — I don’t know about anyone else’s “vision” but I thought to myself, The Good Lord (Mike Ruiz) has “gifted me” with what is more than likely the One and ONLY time that I ever have the honor of “Beating the Hell out of Miss Jody Watley” and this hillbilly from Mississippi has an agenda and something to prove…

1. Prove to Mr. Ruiz that he hired the right makeup artist for the job.

2. Honor and respect Jody as the Icon that she is by respecting her classic Jody Watley look, while also thoughtfully encouraging and guiding her to also depart from that look and create some new iconic looks for the kids that would be seeing Jody for the first time.

3. TURN HER OUT because I know every f** on the planet is going to be gagging at How SICKENING SHE LOOKS in the video.

4. To challenge and please myself

5. .And as always, a big part of my motivation is to help create something exceptional that people will notice, and admire.

6. For me, there is great personal satisfaction because , I consider every job that I do as a makeup artist as a big “f*** you” to everyone who ever called me a sissy or f***** or stupid.

7. Who is a stupid f***** now? A******.

8. I worked with Jody Effin Watley. And you didn’t.

Afrobella — Do you have a favorite look from the video? (Of course I am partial to the big fabulous afro!)

Billy B — I love it all, but of course I love the clip that I am in with her. It’s like “I worked with Jody Watley and I have the receipt to prove it”

Afrobella — I’ve never had the chance to meet him, but I’ve seen photos and he’s so extremely accomplished. He’s also distractingly handsome. What is it like working with Mike Ruiz?

Billy B — Take your thoughts about his accomplishments and his looks, and apply to personality. “Love him long time.”

Afrobella — I know you’re always working on something amazing and usually top secret, Billy — what’s next for you that you can talk about?

Billy B — Lord Have Mercy…. I am dying to tell you, but VERY soon! VERY soon. Buckle your Beauty Belts its gonna be a fun BEAUTIFUL (wear,watch and read) ride. Just saying!

Afrobella — I am sure you’ve been asked this one million times but here goes — any thoughts on a Billy B Beauty line? What would your products look like? And can your eager fans expect any news on that front anytime soon?

Billy B– Again   Lord Have Mercy…. I am dying to tell you, but VERY soon! VERY soon…

How soon? How about RIGHT NOW?

Bellas and fellas, announcing Billy B’s new AWESOMENESS – Billy B’s brushes will be launching with Beautylish sometime this summer! That’s SO SOON! Click here to check out the launch page for what’s sure to be THE must-acquire brushes for dedicated makeup artists.

“I am thrilled to announce that Billy B Beauty Paintbrushes are available again exclusively at Beautylish. When I designed the brushes, eyelash curler and Lash and Brow groomer it was with a Makeup Artists in mind…..ME… Billy B. I designed them for myself to work with. I was frustrated with what was available in the market and I had been modifying brushes for years but trimming them to change the shapes, and using brushes in ways they were not intended. I designed brushes that worked for me. I created brushes that were more compact, and more precise.

When I would work with them, people liked them and asked where they could get them. I decided to sell them. I had no idea how much work it was going to be.

Because most of the sales were to professional makeup artists or makeup junkies, it was extremely important to me that I provided more than exceptional customer service. I was involved in every aspect of the process and soon it was too much for me to manage with my schedule. I chose to take the brushes off the market, when realized it was impossible for me to provide personal attention to every person who purchased a brush that had a question. I feel like my customers deserved that.

Beautylish is a Fantastic Site devoted to Makeup Artists and Makeup Fanatics. They are passionate about what they do and the community they have created for makeup artists and Beauty Fanatics. I am so confident that Beautylish is the perfect home for BillyBBEAUTY Paintbrushes that they will exclusively be available at Beautylish.com. And trust, I am and will always be personally involved and available to those of you who choose to work with Billy B tools.”

So sayeth BILLY.

SO awesome! I love Billy and I LOVE Beautylish! Win win WIN. And YAY — June 18th 2-3:30 Billy B will keynote The Makeup Show Chicago!!! You KNOW I’m there.

Can’t get enough Billy B?  Click here to check out his website, click here to check him out on Beautylish, click here for his Facebook, his YouTube channel, and click here for his Twitter – no matter where you follow him, he’s a riot!

For even MORE Billy, do yourself a favor and watch Erin Scandalous’ AWESOME interview with Billy!

Thank you for being a friend, Mr. Brasfield! I’m honored to know and love ya!

22 years ago, the world lost a genius. Jim Henson left this realm on May 16, 1990.

I was a big fan of his work, from The Muppet Show and Sesame Street to Labryinth and The Dark Crystal. My brothers LOVED The Dark Crystal so much, our first dog was named Fizzgig!

Recently I watched Being Elmo on Netflix, which is all about the amazing Kevin Clash. If you’re a fan of the Muppets in general and the genius that went into creating them, it’s a MUST see.

It’s amazing that something Jim Henson dreamed up in the Fifties remains with us today, in movies and on television, entertaining and educating children around the world. What a beautiful thing. Thank you, Jim Henson, for changing the world in such a magical and meaningful way. Your legacy will live forever.

Which was your favorite of Jim Henson’s creations? Were you a Sesame Street fan? The original Muppet Show? Were you into Fraggle Rock, or Dinosaurs? Were you as obsessed with David Bowie in Labryinth as I was? Tell me!

Seeing as I do what I do, hair care companies often want to send me product to review. I think it’s my job as a blogger to try out as many hair and beauty products as possible to let you guys know what’s truly a HIT and not a miss. But every now and then I’ll get an unsolicited box of products that has nothing to do with my texture or hair needs. I’ve randomly gotten all kinds of mousses and hairsprays and relaxers and hair dyes. Those products instantly go into the before-you-leave-take-what-you-want box for female guests leaving Casa Afrobella, or they’re donated to a women’s shelter.

Other products, especially those that claim to cater to natural hair, I do my best to at least try. Unless there’s an ingredient in there that I won’t use in my hair. For me, the two main two dealbreaker hair product ingredients are petrolatum and alcohol. From the moment I see those items appear in the first few ingredients on a label, I hesitate to give the product a try.

Image via blackgirllonghair.com

Now I KNOW this is up for debate. It’s been widely believed in the natural hair community that petrolatum (or mineral oil) is bad for your hair. However it’s a lot more complicated than the general statement that it’s bad, as Natural Chica explains in this very helpful video.

She’s an engineer and knows her science! I respect her knowledge so much.

For even MORE on mineral oil, check out Curly Nikki’s post A Closer Look at Mineral Oil, and Rules of Engagement for Mineral Oil over at BGLH. 

And I DO sometimes use these items in skincare like body lotions and even some of my bath products. But I personally don’t care for petrolatum based products in my hair because it makes it look all linty and heavy and I don’t like the feel of my hair after using those kinds of products. And if alcohol is the second or third ingredient in a hair product, I’ve come to realize that will translate to dry, frizzy hair for me. It’s been a process of trial and error, but those are my two biggest product dealbreakers. I try to avoid products that include them predominantly.

Whenever I hear something’s rumored to be bad for you, I try to do the due diligence and research it. I’m happy to know that these ingredients aren’t necessarily harmful to your hair. My hair just doesn’t like them, is all.

What about you, bellas? Do you have any hair product ingredient dealbreakers? Which are yours and why?

Mama Bella, my mother, Peggy Aura Arlene Grell, is a woman of elegance and good taste. She loves the finer things in life. Every ounce of my fabulousness comes directly from her.

Right before my wedding, 10 years ago!

Mama Bella knows what she LOVES and isn’t afraid to say it. She also isn’t afraid to respectfully speak her mind if she’s confused by a gift. I remember when I was young, my big brother Clint gave her an iron for Mother’s Day. And my mama was NOT having it. I called her up yesterday to ask her why she had that hilarious and memorable reaction. “Well you see, in my mind, that’s how he looked at me. Like I am there to serve. So let me equip her with items to serve. It was NOT the thing to do,” she explained. And remember that year that Dad got you an exercise bike for Mother’s Day? That didn’t go so well either. “Yes, I remember. That threw me off completely.”

Baby pictures from Belmont, Trinidad

The typical gifts that Mama Bella LOVES? Flowers, fragrances, special clothing items and spa trips are all par for the Mother’s Day course. But to find out the VERY best gift a mother could get, I had to dig deeper.

My parents renewed their wedding vows for their 25th anniversary. I was 12

It’s Friday! Mother’s Day is SUNDAY. And according to my mother, these are THE BEST MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS YOU COULD GIVE.

Mother’s Day gift #1 — “Your presence and personal attention on that day. Get up, have breakfast with her, maybe you prepare her favorite thing and bring it to her on a tray. Or maybe you take her out for breakfast, lunch, dinner, whatever. The salient point is, spend time with her and be happy to be there. Remember in 2009, when they brought you?” (In 2009, my mother’s Mother’s Day present was ME, brought in on a surprise trip from Miami, right before we moved to Chicago). “The main factor that made that Mother’s Day so special, is that you were here.”

Mother’s Day gift #2 – After gift #1 I had to ask my mom, what if you’re not able to hop on a plane and surprise her, what’s another great gift idea? “Well if you can’t actually be there, just keep in touch. Let her know how you feel. Skype is a good tool for that. Call on the phone, send a card, all those little things mean something on Mother’s Day.”

I plan to Skype with my parents — I got them a Logitech camera a few years back and Skype sells Skype approved cameras and phones to make the process painless on both sides. It’s revolutionized communication. It’s so amazing to be able to literally SEE each other, show your relatives your apartment, eat a meal or play a game with them via the camera. It’s so awesomely Back to the Future, I LOVE SKYPE.

Mother’s Day gift #3 — I had to press Mama Bella to discuss actual material gifts, she’s definitely a woman with a lot of stuff (as am I, as am I). But she’s always had specific loves and she believes just about every woman would agree with her. “Gift number three…. flowers. To me, flowers say alot. Flowers and fragrances. Because your children can’t truly buy you the jewelry you might want unless they’re very wealthy. But a daughter or child should know what kind of scent their mother would like, and more than anything else it’s the thought behind the gift. The fact that you took time and effort to choose something special. You get extra points for effort.”

Me and my mom in Salybia, Trinidad, in January during my last visit home!

And there you have it, straight from my mom! She’s given me the best beauty advice, the best life advice, the best upbringing. I love you so much, mom. Thank you for everything you are, and everything you’ve done. Happy Mother’s Day!!!

Bellas, what are you giving or getting for Mother’s Day? Tell me!

This Sunday – May 13, in case you haven’t checked a calendar – is Mother’s Day! Now’s the time to order those flowers and put together those gift baskets, if you haven’t already. And for the moms who read Afrobella.com – I’ve got special Mother’s Day goodness for you through the rest of the week! Some of my FAVORITE brands have offered Mother’s Day giveaways, and I handpicked only the best for you!

Moms today are aware and consciously making an effort to improve the health and happiness of their kids. They work hard to cook healthy meals for their families, and to provide in the best way that they can for their loved ones. And often, moms work so hard that they don’t get time for themselves, to enjoy life and connect with their own interests. So often it winds up being that you sacrifice being an individual woman with your own style and flavor, for being a supermom which means listening to kids music and not having time to read or relax or do YOU.

Afrobella moms, I SALUTE YOU. And so does amazing natural hair and bodycare brand Cara B. Naturally.

Cara B is all about gentle, loving care for children’s hair. Chemical free, certified natural, by the Natural Products Association, and made with love. Check them out at MyCaraB.com. In honor of you this Mother’s Day, we’ve come up with the ideal gift. LO and BEHOLD, the Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Basket!!

What’s inside and in store, for one lucky mama bella? Let me tell you!

-a full set of CARA B Naturally products

-a Beautiful Naturally t-shirt

-a Kindle Fire (!!!)

-an autographed children’s book by author Helen Kimbrough

-a $150 Spa Week gift certificate

Yes. All of this for you, because you deserve to go to the spa, read some good books, and reinforce natural beauty for both you and your little ones!

How do you enter, how do you win??

Leave a comment below telling me what YOU do to to improve the health and happiness of your kids!

And ALSO the wonderful folks at Cara B are offering a special 30% coupon code!!! Just enter AFROBELLA to get 30% off your entire order + free shipping on purchases of $25 or more.

This contest will be officially closed in a WEEK – so you need to enter by May 17 at noon CST to be eligible to win. Only ONE lucky winner will be chosen.

Please like Cara B on Facebook and follow Cara B on Twitter!

This contest is open to entries in the U.S.A, from readers over age 18.

Winners will be notified via e-mail, and they’ll have 48 hours to respond with their name, address and phone number — if a winner fails to respond in time, an alternative winner may be selected.

GOOD LUCK, bellas!

This Sunday – May 13, in case you haven’t checked a calendar about it – is Mother’s Day! Now’s the time to order those flowers and put together those gift baskets, if you haven’t already. And for the moms who read Afrobella.com – I’ve got special Mother’s Day goodness for you through the rest of the week! Some of my FAVORITE brands have offered Mother’s Day giveaways, and I handpicked only the best for you!

I’ve already rhapsodized about the goodness of Shea Radiance, let me tell you again why I love this brand. It works brilliantly on my hair and skin, and it’s 100% made with love. If you’re a lover of natural, vegan, fair trade beauty products, you’ll want to learn more about Shea Radiance. Founded in 2005 by husband and wife team Shola and Funlayo Alabi, their hair and skincare products are of tremendous quality and directly benefit communities in Africa that have partnered with them.  These are some of the women that work to create these shea products – and Funlayo herself is wearing the blue and white patterned outfit in the row of standing women.

I’ve been lucky enough to try out Shea Radiance’s hair products – all are made with unrefined shea butter, so using the complete product line from shampoo on through to styling product means your hair is intensely moisturized. My favorites of their hair products? I love the Moisturizing Hair Milk – it’s a light spray for kinky, curly, wavy hair and it’s made with water, aloe vera juice, shea butter, avocado seed oil, castor seed oil, and hemp seed oil. My hair drinks this stuff up and LOVES it. The Nourishing Hair Repair Cream is formulated for kinky curly hair that needs a heavier product – it’s great for braiding or twisting the hair but isn’t a super heavy product that has a ton of hold.

Shea Radiance’s skincare products are also awesome – thus far I’ve tried the Deluxe Spa Sampler which includes their Ivory Seed Sugar Scrub, Whipped Shea Butter with Kalahari Melon seed Oil, and the Shea and Baobab Antioxidant Cream which is light and fabulous for your face or specially beloved body parts. Of all their skin care products I have to say, a little goes a long way. Also if you’re seeking highly fragranced items, these aren’t what you might be seeking, they are earthy and clean smelling, but not all Shea Radiance products are infused with artificial fragrances or lathering agents. These are natural products for natural beauties! And FIVE lucky bellas could win a set of Shea Radiance goodies – including their hair products and the Deluxe Spa Sampler — in this special Mother’s Day giveaway!

How do you enter, how do you win?

Leave a comment below telling me why you think you or your mom will LOVE these products, and the contest will remain open until Mother’s Day, Sunday May 13 2012. Winners will be announced the week of May 14.

This contest is open to entries in the U.S.A, from readers over age 18.

Winners will be notified via e-mail, and they’ll have 48 hours to respond with their name, address and phone number — if a winner fails to respond in time, an alternative winner may be selected.

You can like Shea Radiance on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter! Good luck, mamas!