So what if Kanye wasn't there?

So what if Kanye wasn't there? A lot of other folks were whether they should have been or not. Monica looked fabulous. I love the shoes! I think the real test of just how fierce she is would come when she breaks into a full run in those heels like "Crystal--Like the Champagne." (I know only a few of you will get that one.) Trina looks nice but I have to confess. This chick looks different to me every time I see her. It's something about her face. Too much makeup? Weave changeup? Cosmetic work? I can't put my finger on it. Toccara looks beautiful as usual. That dress is a fail. It looks "discount." I still love her! Now Sheree. Sheree doesn't seem "hip hop" so I'm guessing this awards show was just a photo op for her. I love the shoes and the bag. They scream "stripper" but they are fabulous. That jumpsuit is the opposite of fabulous and a close cousin to ill-thought-out and ill-fitting. I wonder if that is one of her designs.

Monica Gets a Gig With Bill Gates

Monica performed in celebration of the launch of the “Get Schooled” program, a nation-wide initiative, co-developed by Viacom and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which aims to engage students, families and community members in efforts to improve America’s public education system and encourage more young people to complete their education.

I think I need a drink after this...

Please caption this pic.

Living the life with Monica

Jermain Dupri's "Living the Life: in the studio with Monica"

Monica Upstaged Keshia Cole on her song

Taraji and Monica had similar hairstyles--think Rihanna meets Kate Gosselin--but for some reason it works on Monica and doesn't on Taraji. Tariji's hair was cute before. she should have left it like that. I really like Keshia's shoes. Definitely shoe game proper.