Ya Heard: OK to speak out against Chris Brown

"The passion to get ahead is sometimes born of the fear lest we be left behind."

A few weeks ago I stated that if Chris Brown took some time away from the spotlight to "reflect" on his alleged physical altercation with girlfriend Rhianna, then his career would survive the recent blemish.

In addition to the time off, I also said it would be a good look for Chris to give a remorseful heart-felt interview with a high profile talkshow host (i.e. Oprah) to further gain the sympathy of the masses and propel his career to the next level.

The problem is that being photographed in Miami jet skiing over the weekend was not, and should not have been, a part of the plan. I mean come on … it hasn't even been a month after the alleged altercation and barely two weeks since the photo of a bruised and battered Rhianna hit the net.

Now the kid is only 19, so I don't place the complete blame on his shoulders, but who is advising him? Chris is making it hard to throw sympathy his way. On top of that, we will never see "This Christmas" the same again.

In related news, R&B singer Usher has issued an apology to Chris Brown for comments he made upon seeing the photograph of Chris Jet-Ski-Over-the-Weekend-in-Miami Brown. In a You-Tube.com video, Usher states: "I'm a little disappointed in this photo. After the other photo [of Rihanna's bruised face]? C'mon, Chris. Have a little bit of remorse, man. The man's on jet skis? Like, just relaxing in Miami?"

In his apology, Usher says, "The comments made during a recent recording session amongst friends were taken out of context and blown out of proportion. I apologize on behalf of myself and my friends if anyone was offended. The intentions were not to pass judgment and we meant no harm. I respect and wish the best for all parties involved."

I must say I am disappointed with this apology. Whatever happened to standing by what you say? I'm getting tired of people apologizing for what they really feel. Everyone is going digital these days, but we need some of the analog individuals around to keep us grounded.

JAY Z, BEYONCé MAKE GREAT MUSIC, WEIRD MARRIAGE

Beyoncé recently shed a little light on her and husband Jay Z's marriage during an inter-view the Diva-in-Waiting did with Ebony Magazine. In the interview Bey states, "I'm a little messy. Whenever I'm out in public, I have to be put together. When I get home, I rebel against it and I don't want to take care of anything. I drop it. I'm relaxed. I don't have any shoes on. No makeup. My purse is in the kitchen … I think that is the most difficult thing for [Jay]. He's very, very organized. I'm extremely organized when I'm work-ing, and I work so much that when I get home, I don't want to think about any-thing."

Now I'm going to say this because everyone else has to be holding their tongues. This Jay Z and Beyoncé marriage is weird! It's like their marriage is a little too perfect and controlled. Every time I see these two out in public it looks like they're on their first date. Call me crazy, but in my experience love will make you do some outlandish things. These two seem way too cool to be dangerously in love. I understand the whole "keep our private lives private" thing but they're just as human as the rest of us. I'm not hatin' on them or anything, just calling it how I see it. Don't forget where and when you heard this first…'Til next week, Peace!!!

Dennis Winn can be reached at 703-200-4928 or YaHeard40@gmail.com.