Paging the Smokey Eyed Experts

[my fav model of the moment: Wakeema Holls: Source NY Fashion Mag]

If there is one thing that I struggle with when it comes to makeup, it is the smokey-eye! It get more of a raccoon eye, instead of the sultry smokey-eye, so I am hoping some experts can chime in here.What are your favorite products for creating the dark [almost black] smokey eye? Do you ladies use a brush? Eyeliner? Primer before the shadow?? Help me out here! [please]