By Khadija Allen
Ah! They command the stage, professional arena and some of our hearts. All of these men have truly transformed over the years into dignified gentlemen. The words “bold” and “handsome” are just some of the adjectives used to explain their undeniable sexiness. But it is apparent they didn’t quite invent sex like Trey Songz did…take a look!
Chad Ochocinco
Cincinnati Bengals football star, formally known as Chad Johnson, brings more personality to the sport than many players in the league. His wild and no-nonsense persona leaves many refs with their hands full. Ochocinco transformed in a short amount of time by dropping his blond Mohawk and hood-rich grill. He was in dire need of a makeover and boy, did he change quickly! Before our very eyes, he turned his mangy look into a class act, competing on “Dancing with the Stars” and setting his sights on love with his new reality show, “Ochocinco: The Ultimate Catch on VH1”. Now, he’s a certified hottie.
Chris “Ludacris” Bridges
Feast your eyes on the new Ludacris ladies! His new song you hear playing on the radio called, “Sex Room” is a taste of what you’re going to get from Luda. Before he cut those famous locks, he was an afro-loving, boisterous rapper who couldn’t wait to show off that ‘Disturbing the Peace’ chain. And his performances—you never knew what kind of foolishness would go down! While some loved him, others couldn’t stand the Illinois-born rapper, but we had faith that a distinguished gentleman was hiding underneath all that bling. Hit after hit, movie after movie, he did a complete 180 on us in the looks department by wearing Armani suits instead of throwback jerseys. He sure does redefine the word “swagger.”
Chris Rock
Chris Rock is one of the funniest comedians in show business and his star power is still going strong after 26 years in the game. He writes, produces, directs and sings (although, singing is definitely not his forte). In the early 1990s, he was most famous for starring on “Saturday Night Live” with fellow comedians David Spade and Adam Sandler which made him a household name. But we weren’t exactly feeling his high-top fades and baggy pants. Sooner then later, his style matured into something we could appreciate. Not only does his humor have us rattling in our seats, but his clean presence is an eye-opener too.
Jamie Foxx
For at least 15 years, Jamie Foxx has set the tone in the entertainment industry. He is one of the few celebrities who can make us laugh, cry and swoon over him in the same breath: which is why he earns the title of, “Renaissance Man,” to couple with the numerous accolades behind his name. He definitely has sex appeal, but we didn’t really begin taking notice until after “The Jamie Foxx Show.” In recent years, he continues to lay out Hot music and his musical genius shows no signs of slowing down. Some things just get better with age.
Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter
The Jigga-man aka Shawn Carter fields the rap game as one of the best who ever wielded the mic. His rhymes speak volumes, and his words are battle worthy amidst those who desire the notoriety and fame that he receives as a rapper and entrepreneur. The hip-hop magnet has risen as a self-made fashion guru whose Rocawear enterprise continues to thrive internationally, and sets trends that are unique in style. Back in the day, he coveted the baggy jeans that soon became his signature style and the Rocawear gear was in high demand. Maybe Bey had a hand in the transformation, but there is no telling that his overall swagger is larger than life!
Carmelo Anthony
Basketball player, Carmelo Anthony has had a big year so far with his star-studded union to longtime fiance LaLa Vasquez and making sure that style is a poignant part of his master plan. Leaving no stone unturned in the fashion department for Melo is a priority to the kind of the gentleman he yearns to be in front the camera and off the court. The forward from the Denver Nuggets never used fashion in his repertoire except for his signature braids and jewelry pieces, but now he is heading into 2010 with a new lead on life and pursuing it the best way he can with a new wedding ring to match. LaLa is a lucky lady!
Clifford Harris aka T.I.
The King of the South is back in the limelight to stir promotion for his latest album, “King Uncaged” which exposes his troubles as a rapper and talks about love like never before; a chance for women to see inside the tough exterior that had shielded him since his prime in the rap game. He had a thing for the tilted caps and diamond necklaces but has matured to represent an edge that is different than that of his peers. Career-wise, he is a force to be reckoned with, which gives him an advantage in many personal pursuits including style. The smooth-talking rapper is aware that flair brings out his sense of masculinity, including the ease to his step, a pair of shades and stylish suits to attract the most curious onlooker. Everything down to his shoes is a case study!
Nick Cannon
Mariah Carey’s husband, Nick Cannon has laughed his way up the ranks as business man. But we’ll never forget his early films like “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” and “Drumline” when he was just an awkward, precocious teen. The comedian now has a reason to dress in high-tailored suits as he host television shows, has a morning radio show and is the cahirman of TeenNick.Nick Cannon is definitely all grown up!
