Bleu Magazine Issue #77 Tone Stith by Bleu Magazine

CHRISTIAN KEYES

MYLES TRUITT

L E I G H DAV E N P O R T

KO KO M O

WEARBRIMS

THE MALDIVES

AT I V E

ISSU

77 T H E

V O L U M E 4

E CR

Adapt to Your Environment. www.tombogo.com

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Table of

Contents

58 C OV E R S TO R Y: s Photography by Andrew Zaeh

TO N E S T I T H

m i s e m i m

photography by Isha Shah

TA B L E O F

CONTENTS

14 Access by Bleu

68 Feature Leigh Davenport

16 Gadgets

70 Feature Ricky Day

20 Cars American Muscle

74 Op-Ed Creative Workers Rights

22 Soled Up

28 Grooming Kelvin Truitt

76 Humans

80 Feature Wear Brims

30 Fuel Kokomo NYC

86 Spotlight Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen

34 Fashion Mechali

89 Icon Michael K. Williams

42 Travel Maldives

46 Travel Salamander Hotel & Resort

50 Fashion Propoganda SS22 Advertorial

66 Books For Creatives

MASTHEAD

On the Cover TONE STITH Photography By ANDREW ZAEH FASHION STYLING BY DANIE CREATIVE

Publisher/Editorial Direction DéVon Christopher Johnson

Contributing Writers

AD Sales:

Jazmine Parsons, Becca Blond, Reginald

Todd Evans, Rivendell Media 908.232.2021

Dominique, Cataanda James, Jonathan

Head of Content EIC Bombshell by Bleu Ebony Allison

Art Direction & Design

P-Wright, Nino Reyes, Bobby Pen

Contributing Photographers Andrew Zaeh, Keenan Beasley, Ishan, Jabari

Ecommerce Partnerships

Jacobs, Reese Sherman, Daion Chesney, Jack

Justin Wallace

Vee Banionis, Agnes Mazeikaite

Mallet, Quan Brinson

Managing Editor

Contributing Editors

Taylor Edwards

Apuje Kalu

UK Fashion Editor Sean Azeez

Licenses & Joint Ventures David DeGraff,Oaklins | DeSilva+Phillips

Chevy Wolf, Danie Creative, Amontae Arnold, Ryan Gale

West Coast Fashion Editor

Web Design Muhammad Azeem

Special Projects Coordinator Antheny Raiy

Interns Madison Allison, Ryan Kwon, Rayelle Lennard,

Brand Ambassadors

Francoise Lino, Natalie Sheehan,Sekou

Rannon Harris (Chicago-Midwest)

Cherif,Spencer Southwell

Newsstand Distribution

Copy Editor

TNG 1955 Lake Park Drive, Ste 400

Trevoy Ross, William Flores

Smyrna, GA 30080

Staff Writer Elysia Tanswell

THE BLEULIFE MEDIA GROUP

Cover Story Design

Chairman, CEO & President

Anahi Flores

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Submissions Bleu Magazine 26 Broadway 3rd Floor New York, NY 10004

Bleulife Media & Entertainment Inc. | 26 Broadway 3rd Floor New York, NY 10004 | E-Mail: info@bleulife.com | Online: bleulife.com Printed in Canada. Opinions expressed by advertisers, columnists, feature writers or other contributors are not necessarily the opinions of Bleu Magazine or its staff. All advertisements, photographs, text or illustrations are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized to have secured proper consent for the use thereof. Bleu Magazine shall not be held responsible for any errors, loss, expense or liabilities on advertisements accepted after the deadline. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or advertisement in Bleu Magazine is not to be constructed as an indication of sexual orientation of such persons, advertiser or organization. Partial or complete reproduction of an advertisement, news article, feature or photograph from Bleu Magazine is strictly prohibited as Bleu Magazine is a registered trademark. A $25 or 1.5% (whichever is greater) fee will be charged for all NSF checks. All rights reserved.

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

The world can be really cruel and crappy. But, it can also be beautiful and fulfilling. There is no way to guard us from disappointment and obstacles that will most definitely present themselves in your life. Life teaches lessons in real time. What matters most is what we do with those lessons and how, if they are detrimental, we don’t repeat them. Nobody gets it right everyday. So we shouldn’t beat ourselves up because our life doesn’t reflect the facade of what is filtered through social media algorithms. Before social media. Before television. Before photography- comparative reality was localized. Individuals measured themselves through their position in their families and community. Simpler, yes. But, what if your environment was one hundred percent toxic and that’s all you were exposed to? So, social media isn’t all bad. We can see something else. We can escape. We get to meet people that are neighborhoods or continents away.

Harry Truman, Doris Day, Red China, Johnnie Ray South Pacific, Walter Winchell, Joe DiMaggio Joe McCarthy, Richard Nixon, Studebaker, television North Korea, South Korea, Marilyn Monroe

Negativity will always be present. There’s no light without dark. There’s no triumph without struggle. But, we must always choose to be the best of who we are created to be.. We must always work to drown out the negativity and seek right. The forces of evil can only exist if you forget to be the force of good.

Rosenbergs, H-bomb, Sugar Ray, Panmunjom Brando, “The King and I”, and “The Catcher in the Rye” Eisenhower, Vaccine, England’s got a new queen Marciano, Liberace, Santayana, goodbye

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

We didn’t start the fire It was always burning, since the world’s been turning We didn’t start the fire No, we didn’t light it, but we tried to fight it Joseph Stalin, Malenkov, Nasser and Prokofiev Rockefeller, Campanella, Communist Bloc Roy Cohn, Juan Peron, Toscanini, Dacron Dien Bien Phu falls, “Rock Around the Clock” BILLY JOEL WE DIDN’T START THE FIRE

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C O N T R I B U TO R S

Andrew ZAEH

Reginald

DOMINIQUE

Elysia

TA N S W E L L

Cataanda JAMES

Nino

RE YES

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Before hitting his stride as a photographer and VMA-Nominated director, Andrew held creative positions at major record labels where he helmed the visual branding for many of today’s top artists. Since then, Andrew has had the pleasure of lensing campaigns for AT&T, Revlon and Johnson & Johnson to name a few. Always happiest on set, Andrew is thrilled to be a contributor to Bleu.

Born and raised in Plaquemine, Louisiana Reginald Dominique quickly took the networking approach to his advantage by getting out and being recognized. As an Alumnus Tiger, of Texas Southern University with a BA Degree in Mass Communication and a Minor in Journalism, Reggie has worked on many projects including several Super Bowls, ESPYS, Award shows, and many more as well as having interviewed some of your favorite celebrities. Reggie currently is a freelance journalist and serves as StyleMagazine.com Lead Videographer/Editor and Social Media Editor.

Elysia Tanswell is a lifestyle and culture writer from Britain. Quiet in person, she found that writing was a great way to make her point without being interrupted. Elysia started her writing career by taking part in a whirlwind internship right here at Bleu! Her pieces cover everything from adjusting to NYC, to being baffled by mandatory patriotism, to only slightly sarcastic responses to persistent millennial bashing.

Cataanda James is a consummate hair and makeup influencer with a fervor for words and story telling.

Nino Reyes is a New York City based journalist who covers stories on biographies, politics, entertainment and lifestyle.

IT’S NOT JUST A MAGAZINE

BLEUMAG.COM @BLEUMAGAZINE

it’s a lifestyle. Issue 77

AC C E S S BY B L E U

Rolling Loud NYC

Hip-Hop’s Biggest Festival made Its Return to New York City After a One-Year Hiatus.

Rolling Loud gave New York City fans another incredible weekend loaded with great performances. Held at NYC’s Citi Field, the venue featured three stages sponsored by: Deleón, Audiomack and Punx. With a handful of activities to do, Rolling Loud added an amusement park-sized swing ride, a haunted house by 300 Entertainment, a skatepark, a half basketball court, cereal bar, endless merch tents and local food trucks.

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Words by JUSTIN WALLACE

AC C E S S BY B L E U

The three-day festival featured electrifying performances from 50 Cent, J.Cole, Travis Scott and more. Beyond all the drama, this year’s Rolling Loud festival in New York has shown how far the genre of hip-hop has evolved. With over 80,000 in attendance the weekend was not only about music, it was about unity! Next is Rolling Loud Miami, which takes place July 22-24, 2022 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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SOLED UP

SNEAKER HAUL

Sneaker Don Justin Trotman better known as @airjuhst gives us a peek inside his library of shoes.

KOBE 8 SYSTEM PREMIUM ‘WHAT THE KOBE’ ZOOM KOBE 7 SUPREME ‘CHRISTMAS’ ZOOM KOBE 1 ‘SHARPSHOOTER’ CRAZY 8 ‘1998 ALL STAR GAME’

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SOLED UP

Left to Right Top Row: AIR JORDAN 3 RETRO OG ‘BLACK CEMENT’ AIR JORDAN 4 RETRO OG GS ‘BRED’ AIR JORDAN 6 RETRO OG ‘CARMINE’

Bottom Row: AIR JORDAN 6 RETRO ‘INFRARED’ AIR JORDAN 13 RETRO ‘HE GOT GAME’ AIR JORDAN 9 RETRO ‘OLIVE’ AIR JORDAN 5 RETRO ‘FIRE RED’ AIR JORDAN 8 RETRO ‘PLAYOFF’

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SOLED UP

AIR YEEZY ‘NET’

SEAN WOTHERSPOON X AIR MAX 1/97 ‘SEAN WOTHERSPOON’

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SOLED UP

AIR JORDAN 4 RETRO OG WHITE CEMENT’

Left to Right: CACTUS PLANT FLEA MARKET X AIR FORCE 1 LOW PREMIUM ‘WHITE’ CACTUS PLANT FLEA MARKET X SWAROVSKI X DUNK LOW ‘PURE PLATINUM’ UNION LA X AIR JORDAN 4 RETRO ‘GUAVA ICE’ OFF-WHITE X AIR JORDAN 5 RETRO ‘MUSLIN’ AIR YEEZY ‘NET’

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CARS

Words by REGINALD DOMINIQUE

Nothing says American Muscle like the Ford Mustang 20

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CARS

The Mustang created the iconic pony car class of American muscle cars. This was distinguished as affordable, sporty coupes with long hoods and short rear decks and gave rise to its competitors;the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, and the second-generation Dodge Challenger. Since then, the Mustang has undergone several transformations to its current sixth generation model. With production of the Ford Mustang beginning on March 9, 1964 in Dearborn,Michigan, the new car was revealed to the public on April 17, 1964 at the New York World’s Fair. Of the 1960s’ pony cars, the Mustang is the only model to remain in continuous production since its introduction. The first generation of the Ford Mustang dates from 1965-1973. During this time, the vehicle was solidified as a contender in the muscle car world. Facing big competition, the Mustang underwent changes nearly every year keeping Dodge and Chevrolet on their toes. In 1969 different variants and decorative options became available and after 1970, the Mustang evolved from speed and power to the growing consumer demand for a larger and luxury design. Going from fast and sporty to fat and lazy, a lot of design flaws were noticed and performance decreased in sales.

First debuted in 1964, America has witnessed the evolution of the Ford Mustang with over fifty-five years of modifications. With its sleek design and powerful engine, there is no denying that the Mustang still holds the title as America’s Muscle Car. The rich history of the Ford Mustang goes back to its grassroots originally conceived by Lee Iacocca. The Mustang debuted in 1964 with a price tag of $2,368.

al sub-models, trim levels, and drivetrain combinations. One of the biggest stand outs were the 1979–1986 cars with their quad headlight arrangement, also known as ‘four eyed”, and the 1987–1993 cars with their aerodynamic composite headlamps which led it to the fourth generation. The fourth generation of the Ford Mustang dates from 1994-2004. In tradition, the new design incorporated several styling cues from previous models. The 1994 Mustang GT was named “Motor Trend Car of the Year”, making the list for the second time since 1974. Throughout the ten years of the fourth generation, this muscle car saw a base horsepower grow from 145 in 1994 to 193 in 2004,topping out at 390 HP in the 2004 Cobra Supercharger. The fifth generation of the Ford Mustang dates from 2005-2014. These models saw another major redesign. Most importantly was the noticeable lighter engine sizes. Still packing all of the torque and horsepower, the lighter engine allowed drivers to accelerate quicker with the base model Mustang starting at a 4.0-liter V6 engine pushing out 210 horsepower.

The second generation dates from 19741978. This generation was known as the “Mustang Two” - introducing the smaller and fuel-efficient Mustang for 1974. Released on September 21, 1973, the Mustang was available in coupe, hatchback and a luxury model version. During this time the Mustang Cobra, Cobra II and King Cobra versions were introduced as well. More power, better handling, and fuel efficiency was achieved.

The sixth and current generation of the Ford Mustang dates from 2015-present. Unveiled in December 2013, this was another facelift for the Mustang. Wider and lower gave it the fierce look that it has today, making it easily intimidating if glanced at in the rearview mirror. The passenger volume was also increased and as of today its available in (base) three engine options: the popular Ecoboost, a 3.7 Liter V6 or the 5.0 Coyote V8 topping out at 435 horsepower in either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. If you want more, the 2020 Shelby GT 500 produces 760 horsepower!

The third generation Mustang dates from 1979-1993. The famous ‘fox body’ Mustang brought on a smaller body style, but maximizing back seat and trunk space. Body style included a coupe, hatchback, notchback and a convertible. This evolution of the Mustang saw many changes with sever-

Like always, with Ford you will have options. As fast as you want to go, they can get you there. There is no denying that the Ford Mustang is a leader in the muscle car world. Known for its long hood, sleek silhouette, and lots of power, the Mustang is America’s Muscle Car.

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O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

Words by TRUTH HAWKINS Photography by SHAMSHAWAN SCOTT Styling by JOE HUNT/DEVIN BOLTON

“BMF” Star Myles Truitt Offers Sage Advice to Aspiring Actors Myles Truitt, who currently stars in the 50 Cent-produced crime drama series BMF, shares sage advice for those who aspire to follow in his footsteps.

From biographical miniseries to sci-fi thrillers, Myles Truitt has you covered. Currently, starring as “B-Mickie” in the Starz hit series Black Family Mafia [BMF], the 19-year-old shares how the story of two brothers [Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory],from the southwest side of Detroit, became one of America’s most most influential crime families. “It’s not only crime, guns, drugs and sex.” he tells us. “It’s about loyalty, family, and brotherhood - understanding the environment they came out of and the success they made. Understanding that while it [BMF] has mafia in it. It also has Black family in it. You can watch it with your Black family.” “A lot of people can relate to this show when it comes down to hip hop culture, music, dancing, the lingo - the clothing. Come on now! It [BMF] has it all,” Truitt adds, signaling Motor City’s overall cultural influence. Of his pivotal role as the third OG in the crew, the A-town resident dishes on how he rose to the occasion in the absence of “any primary sources” to prepare. “I had to pick from other sources, like people he [B-Mickie] was associated with and watch different documentaries. There was a YouTube video of him talking - just

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me picking up his mannerisms, cadence, the way he walks and the energy he gave people.” A task, some may argue Truitt has been preparing for since childhood; noting his time at a local summer camp was the spark that lit the fuse. “I went to theater camp because there were no slots left at the basketball camp. So, my mom was like ‘either you want to go to theater camp with all the little girls and three other boys or you can go to Emory Hospital with your grandmother for the rest of the summer. As a teen I was like ‘nah I’m going to go to theater camp.’” It was there that Truitt fine tuned his craft, learning how to “be still,” emote when speaking and grow comfortable in front of large audiences. Fundamental skills that were soon put to test after joining the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta. Shortly after joining, casting director Robi Reed tapped him to play Little Ronnie DeVoe on BET’s The New Edition Story. “Moving from that theater role straight to the film world, I had so much respect for theater because you only get one chance on that stage. When you’re in front of the camera, it’s like ‘Alright cut. Can you try it this way? Can you do it that way?’ ’’ Truitt elaborates,

O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

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O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

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O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

“It’s about loyalty, family, and brotherhood … Understanding that while it has mafia in it. It also has Black family in it”

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O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

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O P E N I N G F E AT U R E

“Every ‘no’ gets you closer to a ‘yes.’ Everybody gets that one blessing. That ‘yes’ is going to be that blessing”

signaling the requisite to be adaptable in his newfound environment - a coachable chameleon of sorts. Reflecting further on his journey, the Queen Sugar alum offers some sage advice to aspiring actors. “Every ‘no’ gets you closer to a ‘yes.’ Everybody gets that one blessing. That ‘yes’ is going to be that blessing. So, stay consistent in your goals. Everything is temporary. Everything. So, don’t ever settle.” Adding, “When it comes to your art form, your cooking, when you’re on stage, in front of the camera, be satisfied with what you just put out.” Up next, Truitt joins forces with Netflix, landing the role of a hot shot basketball player in the highly anticipated season four of Stranger Things,slated for release in late 2022. “His name is Patrick. He’s a junior at Hawkins High. This year, the cast is going to high school. So, Lucas’ [played by Caleb McLaughlin] is trying to find his friend group. He doesn’t want to do chess or theater. So, where does he go? He joins the basketball team and befriends me [Patrick].” While he may not “ball” Truitt is confident he held his own on the court, joking, “I hoop. There are people that ball. If they ball, they do it for real - on a regular basis. I hoop. So, I don’t care if you beat me. But, I can still put six points on your head.” Keeping his cards close to his chest, he continues, “I don’t want to tell you too much - I really don’t know what’s going to happen. I’ll be watching in surprise as much as you guys.” In the meantime, you can catch Truitt alongside a star studded cast including Da’Vinchi [Thoughts of a Colored Man] and Demetrius Flenory Jr. in season one of BMF. Stream the full series on Starz.

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GROOMING

Words by CATAANDA JAMES

Barber Shop Ministry with Kelvin Truitt

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GROOMING

Serial entrepreneur Kelvin Truitt has managed to make a powerful impact on entertainment culture. Known as a storyteller, singer, interior designer and more, barbering is what ultimately helped get his name in rooms that his hands had yet to touch

Kelvin Truitt is a multi-hyphenate creative who simply explains his overall success in three words, “I don’t quit”. Making his mark as Master Barber, Truitt has managed to transcend from behind the chair to “Barber to the Stars” serving clients behind the scenes on various productions and Hollywood movie sets. When asked what first sparked his interest in barbering he says, “as a young kid, I thought the men at the barber shops I would go to were charismatic and cool and had a lot of money; so that made me want to be like them.” His journey started as a kid with big barber dreams. Truitt began cutting hair at ten years old, with family and friends being his first clientele. His determination, consistency and integrity in perfecting his craft resulted in his big break and his first opportunity to fuse his barbering skills and entertainment. “I was the set barber for Nick Cannon’s show Wild N’ Out and he basically had celebrities come for each show. I was able to form some connections there,” says Truitt. Kelvin’s client list is extensive, including many of the most elite artists, athletes, and actors including Common, Sugar Ray Leonard, Wayne Brady, Klay Thompson and many others.

through, share life stories and get emotional, all without judgement. When you are on the other side of that chair you automatically become the confidant of everyone who graces your presence and sits before you. Throughout the years those triumphant moments have entrusted Kelvin to be a catalyst of hope for his clients while enhancing their outward appearance. Kelvin Truitt is a man with an entrepreneurial spirit that has proven success transitioning from kid barber to key barber on many popular Hollywood sets. On the product line track, Kelvin says, “right now, I am primarily doing music and I have grown out my beard as a part of my album journey. Because of this I would definitely like to give some beard and skin care, to make sure people have healthy skin underneath where their beard is growing.” Until the hyphenate Country singer finishes work on his recording project and the development of his beard care line he leaves us with his top 3 grooming tips for aspiring and upcoming barbers... “give the client what they want, make sure the taper in the back looks nice and be groomed on a regular basis.”

Being blessed to inaugurate several successful business ventures throughout his career, his passion is working with his hands and his heart. Kelvin candidly describes himself as a heart-driven entrepreneur that is also known in his community as a strong spiritual leader. We asked hyphenate Pastor Truitt how serving his clients behind the scenes on set compares to serving in ministry and if he considers his barbering work as such. He affectionately replied, “Yes, for sure I consider barbering work as ministry. I say this because the artists I have worked with are preparing to present something memorable and impactful. This is the same as in ministry when you go before people hoping to make an impact.” Truitt continuously makes an impressionable impact on everything his heart and hands touch. According to Kelvin, his signature as a barber isn’t limited to an impeccable cut or line up. “My signature is definitely my ability to connect with people. Behind the chair I think my signature is my quality and efficiency when I cut hair,” he says. His service to people is pervasive but it is his attentiveness and servant’s heart that he gives to his clients while in his chair that is “sheer” genius. As a Black man, historically the barbershop is a safe place to converse with your technician, to open up about what you’re going

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FUEL

Words by ANTHONY RAIY

KOKOMO

Brooklyn’s Lovechild

The latest restaurant being praised by food critics is a Black-owned Williamsburg gem called KoKoMo

KoKoMo is the brainchild of newlyweds and first-time restaurateurs, Ria and Kevol Graham, who both have a background in hospitality. They were conscious and successful at their attempt to create a space offering an experience parallel to art, design, sophistication and delicious Caribbean cuisine. The Grahams reveal the eatery is named after the famed 1980s Beach Boys song about an island lovers could go to—this coincides with the breezy, relaxed vibe of the restaurant. “We want people to feel like they can come here and meet as lovers--or meet their lovers’’, explains Ria, who describes KoKoMo as Pan-Caribbean with Indian and Nestled in the trending neighborhood of Williamsburg, at 65 Kent Ave, is Black-owned Caribbean cafe and lounge, KoKoMo. With a menu consisting of a creative twist on island favorites, KoKoMo is Caribbean food all dressed up. Edged along the waterfront of N. 10th Street this establishment has been creating buzz since it’s opening in June 2020, keeping it in high demand. Although the two-story 5000 square-foot restaurant seats a total of 160 patrons (68 indoor and 92 outdoor), getting a reservation (Resy.com) can be tough if you are not booking at least a week in advance. If you walk-in without a reservation on any given weekend, expect to wait at least an hour. Located off the Bedford Avenue exit on the L Train or the Nassau Avenue exit off the G Train, KoKoMo’s exterior is marked by a colorful mural on the side of the red brick building, which reads Bob Marley’s famous lyrics, “every little thing is gonna be alright”.

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FUEL

Christian Aranibar, who serves as executive chef, is from Limu, Peru. He became familiar with Caribbean cuisine while working on Margarita Island off the coast of Venezuela. Inspired by the rich and exotic culture of the Caribbean, KoKoMo’s cuisine builds on familiar island ingredients with an elevated, modern flair. The menu offers a delicious mix of flatbreads, succulent meats, comfort sides, and decadent desserts presented on vibrant, nature-infused plating. Rasta pasta, braised oxtails, marinated shrimp with sauteed callaloo and grilled pineapples and jerk fries, are some of the eats served at KoKoMo. The menu also includes substantial vegan options. Acclaimed mixologist and beverage consultant Rael Petit is responsible for KoKoMo’s drink menu consisting of refreshing cocktails and housemade elixirs - including a sweet ginger juice and two frozen fruit punches featuring house-made syrups flavored with Grenadian spices. The eatery is still waiting on its liquor license, so for now all the cocktails are non-alcoholic. Ria’s mother, Karen Valentine, is a partner and helps run the restaurant that hosts and caters private and public events. Their love letter to people and cultures is expressed daily as they staff employees who hail from 29 different countries thus far.

Asian flavors. She feels blessed to have opened this family business in the middle of a pandemic, where love is all around and she hopes that love is felt in the food, felt in the drinks, and felt in the service. Ria’s personal favorite dish is the ‘Wah Gwaan Flatbread’--made with ackee, which is the Jamaican national fruit, a cilantro scotch bonnet sauce, relish greens, and tomato confit.

Equally important to know is that on the weekends, KoKoMo is less than ‘dining’ and more of an ‘experience’. From 4-7pm they have KokoHour which is their version of happy hour. With discounted drinks, bites and elevated vibes, They often have a live DJ on the weekends, including their Friday brunch which features unlimited mimosas. KoKoMo was also listed among “Best of the City 2021” by @TimeOutNewYork for their outdoor dining experience. KoKoMo is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and for brunch Friday through Sunday. They also offer takeout and delivery on DoorDash and Uber Eats.

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BOMBSHELLBYBLEU.COM

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56 T R AV E L

Visiting The Maldives Is More Affordable Than You Think WORDS BY BECCA BLOND

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58 COVER STORY

Stith Sets A New ‘Tone’ For R&B WORDS BY JAZMINE PARSONS

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86 SPOTLIGHT

Hilltop Cafe + Kitchen WORDS BY ANTHENY RAIY

s Photography by Quan Brinson

FA S H I O N

MECHALI LAUNCHES ITS FOURTH COLLECTION,

“A LOV E L I K E N O OT H E R ” Mechali, a family fashion business founded on the value of brotherhood, released their Fall/Winter 2021 collection after a few months of silent hard work as they set out to redesign their website and revamp their brand image. Since their establishment in 2019, they have materialized their family story through luxurious streetwear designs inspired by their Moroccan and South African heritage. Racing off the tracks and onto the streets, brothers, and co-founders Jason and Dane created a nostalgic collection inspired by their childhood when they would watch their mechanic father work in his shop and take them to local car races. “The Mechali Motor Club,” as is printed on many of their designs, once again proves they have mastered storytelling through fashion design.

Now available online at Mechalico.com

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FA S H I O N

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T R AV E L

Words by BECCA BLOND

Maldivian Dreaming: Visiting The Maldives Is More Affordable Than You Think

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T R AV E L

Home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and glamorous private island resorts, the Maldives are a bucket list destination for many. From resorts to yacht charters, here’s how to explore the Maldives on a less than celebrity-sized budget.

My WhatsApp buzzes with a new message: Manta rays have been spotted in Hanifaru Bay and if we want to snorkel with them we need to head down to the dive shop at Reethi Beach Resort in 15 minutes. “Omg the rays are there, we are going to see them and maybe a whale shark,” I squeal to my friend Rene. We have been in the Maldives for almost a week now with a small group of content creator friends and this is the first opportunity we’ve had to swim with these majestic sea creatures. Rene (@ownbyfemme on social) is a free diver and even more excited than me. She grabs her GoPro and mask and snorkel and we book it to the dive shop. Less than an hour later we are in a warm, tropical blue lagoon that is protected as the Baa Atoll Unesco World Biosphere Reserve watching in awe through our masks as a half dozen manta rays swoop up and down around us. Rene hands me her camera, takes a huge breath, ditches her snorkel and dives down deep until she is swimming mermaid-style alongside one of these gentle giants. Because the rays are in a protected reserve we are only allowed to snorkel here (no scuba diving) and our time is restricted to 45 minutes per trip. Getting back in the boat Rene and I are both grinning in agreement that today was the best day of 2021 so far.

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Known for having the most consistently beautiful white sand meets turquoise lagoon-hinged real estate in the world, Maldives has long been a dream destination for me. But until this trip I always thought financially they were out of my league. After all this is where celebrities shell out tens of thousands of dollars a night to stay on private islands and dine under the sea. Not everywhere in this tropical island paradise, however, is outrageously expensive. And it is possible to do an affordable luxe vacation to the Maldives either with a group of friends or on a romantic getaway.

Resorts for all Budgets Comprising 1,200 islands spread across thousands of miles in the Indian Ocean south of India, every resort in the Maldives is on a private island. And many, like Reethi Beach Resort , a 35-minute seaplane ride north of the international airport in Male, are quite affordable. Reethi Beach offers a mix of over-water and garden view villas. The over-water villas are awesome. They have decks with ladders leading directly into the turquoise blue lagoon below and floor to ceiling glass doors that open onto these decks and let you catch the sunrise from bed. But since this same lagoon surrounds the entire resort you can save some cash by booking their least expensive villas, which can cost as little as $289 per night with full board for two people. A true steal. Rates change frequently, however, so check the website for the most up to date prices.

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Reethi Beach has multiple restaurants onsite and the food is quite good. There is also a water sports center, PADI 5-star dive center and a spa focusing on Balinese style treatments. Excursions like the manta ray snorkeling are extra but not prohibitively expensive.

Yacht Charter is Another Option Chartering a yacht for a few nights with a group of friends is another surprisingly affordable option. Yacht Maldives has three vessels. Two are polished wooden boats styled after Maldivian fishing vessels and the third is a small yacht. Rates start at just $1,200 per day full-board (not including alcohol or scuba diving, which are extra) for the least expensive wooden boat, Dhoni Stella 2, which can sleep up to six people. The more modern Over Reef catamaran is just a little pricier and can also accommodate up to six people. One of the coolest aspects of chartering a boat is the live-aboard experience gives you freedom to explore beyond the lagoon surrounding the island where your resort is. If you like to snorkel or dive you’ll be able to hit multiple spots to see more varied marine life as well. The Yacht Maldives crew is some of the best around and their cooking was the highlight of my travel group’s culinary experiences. Maldivian food is very fish and seafood focused (tuna is a real staple) and also influenced by India and Bangladesh. The result is the most divine tasting, spicy coconut fish curries served with fresh made chapati.

Getting to the Maldives The hardest part of traveling to the Maldives is getting there. From my home in Denver it took a full 30 hours of flying to reach the islands. That is a long time to hang in the sky. If you can swing it, I highly recommend using miles or points to upgrade to business class on Qatar Airways, which has the most direct flight options from the U.S. to Maldives via their Doha hub. The Q Suites are worth their weight in gold for a 16-hour flight like I did from Doha to Los Angeles going home. Not only does the airline offer some of the best service in the industry as well as food and drink options on the flights, but the Q Suites actually have sliding doors that close to create fully enclosed pods with lie flat seats. From Doha in Qatar it is another five hour flight to reach the Velana International Airport in the capital city of Male. For more on what my trip to the Maldives looked like as well as the Q Suite experience on Qatar Airways, check out my Instagram highlights reels @planetblond.

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Words by BY JONATHAN P-WRIGHT Photography by LUXURY HOTEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY | SALAMANDER HOTELS & RESORTS

SALAMANDER RESORT & SPA

The Vision of Sheila Johnson Salamander Resort & Spa illuminates the essence of luxury living infused with real life pleasures.The vision of Sheila Johnson continues to empower and enrich the world of travel.

Sheila Johnson, the co-founder of BET, owns the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, one of the most relaxing properties on the East Coast. This hotel is a must-see if you’re planning a trip to the United States. In addition to her reputation as a fierce competitor, she holds the distinction of being the only Black woman to own three professional sports teams; including the Washington Mystics (WNBA), the Washington Wizards (NBA), and the Washington Capitals (NHL). Boasting 168 spacious guest rooms and suites, the beautifully designed destination also features fabulous amenities and memorable experiences. Salamander Resort & Spa is a Dream Destination The scenic resort sits in the heart of Virginia’s Horse and Wine Country, just 30 minutes away from Dulles International Airport.

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In addition, the Salamander Resort & Spa has become the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area’s very first Forbes Five-Star destination resort. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy endless activities such as equestrian programs, country bike tours, and aerial parks while gourmet dining, luxurious spa treatments, and deluxe guest rooms allow individuals to escape from all of the stresses and strains of life. Salamander Resort & Spa provides a Hollywood movie script type concierge experience. The Market Salamander creates premium café sandwiches, picnic baskets, lunches, and provides on-demand catering for each guest. The Market Salamander reflects Sheila Johnson’s family-oriented vision to make people feel at home. Endless Amenities of Salamander Spa & Resort Salamander Resort & Spa leaves no option or desire unfulfilled. Guests never compromise their regular daily activities of life when staying at the Salamander Resort & Spa. Peloton enthusiasts can breathe easy because Salamander Resort & Spa allows guests to ride without interruption. Guests can have a Peloton bike delivered to their room and never miss a workout. Sheila Johnson understands Peloton’s market demand and accommodates the public demand for each guest.

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Gold Cup room is the ultimate chill and personal bonding hotspot. The luxurious vibe and fabulous setting are perfect for relaxing, indulging in cocktails, and wine tastings. Gold Cup lunch and dinner cuisine is a diverse menu that satisfies any and all taste buds. The menu complements the Gold Cup’s rich and elegant dining experience. The Salamander Spa is an award-winning 23,000 square-foot fantasy island of pleasure. Offering heated pools, customized holistic spa treatments, full-service top-rated hair salon, and everything a person’s heart could ever desire. Walking into the Salamander Spa is a breathtaking experience and redefines the term self-care.

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T R AV E L

this is for the kings

AVAILABLE ONLINE AT www.YOUNGKINGHAIRCARE.COM

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FA S H I O N

Featuring TYUS-IMMANUEL BERRY

Photography by MONICA REYES

Art Direction by KATIA BADALIAN

Fashion Styling by GENA TUSO

Fashion Assistance by MEGAN KING

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View the collection here

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C O V E R S TO R Y

Words by JAZMINE PARSON Photography by ANDREW ZAEH Fashion Styling by: DANIE CREATIVE Fashion Assistance: AMONTAE ARNOLD + RYAN GALE

From the Back of My Mind Tour with H.E.R. to the Soul Train Awards’ Best New Artist nod, Tone Stith is an alternative vibe that music-lovers cannot ignore, blending R&B, Soul, and Funk like no one else.

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Straight off the “Back of My Mind” tour with management and labelmate H.E.R., Tone Stith ended his 2021 with a major win being nominated for Best New Artist at the 2021 Soul Train Awards. Tone Stith went from watching his peers perform and win awards to him performing on the BET Amplified Stage - and now, finally getting his earned moment in the spotlight. “Just being nominated for an award is like mind blowing to me because I’ve never been nominated for anything in my life,” the R&B singer shares, smiling in Atlanta, Georgia to record new music. “I’m nominated!” He was filled with joy when he found out, making sure he called everyone to share the news with, including his parents.

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JACKET: VINTAGE [NO LABEL] PANTS: DAILY PAPER SHOES: CONVERSE

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Softly, smoothly, and surely, Tone Stith is becoming R&B’s favorite new soulful sound. “And I think that I’m just getting started.” Born and raised in New Jersey, Stith was involved in music from a very young age. Growing up with two musicians as parents, his mother inspired his singing while his father inspired his instrumental side. “You have to really have your heart set on your goal, and go for it. Don’t let anyone change your path” were some of the lessons he learned from his parents that he applied to his career. Late 2021, Tone dropped his EP Still FWM, featuring appearances from Chris Brown and Kenneth Paige. The seven track release is the follow up to his EP FWM. “FWM was like ‘Aight, y’all can come on and fuck with me - you might know who I am.’ Now with Still FWM? its like ‘Aye, y’all still fucking with me?’ because I’m about to take it up a notch,” he proudly states. Tone’s fan base grew while on tour with his label mate H.E.R.. “There was a segment where H.E.R. would bring me out on stage and we’d perform “Could’ve Been” every night. I’m not going to lie, going on stage with her was a little nerve wrecking but it taught me to just let loose, have fun and connect with the audience,” he explained. Growing up, Tone had several musical influences that inspire his music today. Teena Marie was one of many who he looked up to. He admired her voice, bass playing, and funky aura. “She had a lot to do with my sound and what I’ve learned thus far,” he mentioned while thinking deeply. “I also love Chaka Khan. My mom always played her music, and just the way she sang I definitely pulled from her also. There’s a lot more I could keep going down the list.”

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Recently, the singer got the chance to hear RCA recording artist Marzz, where he instantly became a fan of her voice. If he had to have an opening act for his tour, the Louisville songstress would be his first pick. “She is dope. She’s definitely on my radar for someone I’m looking forward to working with.” Tone Stith’s style of music is a mixture of all genres, which makes it unique. The R&B crooner plays the drums, piano and guitar. “Now that I’m older [26] I love the guitar. I feel like that instrument allows me to speak. When asked how he sees his sound evolving over the next few years, he humbly replied, “I’m just very curious to see how I mix all my sounds together because I love all of those elements of music equally. I’m curious to see how I make it work and how I can take a R&B crowd and introduce them to something that may be alternative or rock, and make them love it the same way.” COAT : KENZO VEST : COS PANTS: GIVENCHY BOOTS: THE KOOPLES

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He’s at a point in his life where he’s ready to dig deeper into his layers of writing. Sitting in the studio he states, “I want the listener to go through a journey, and peel back the layers of the song and really figure out what I’m talking about or

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who the song is about or what the whole concept is about. Someone he would really love to work with-Jazmine Sullivan. “I think Jazmine Sullivan is incredible. She’s a great artist;a great writer. She’s someone I listened to a lot when I was younger when she was first hitting the scene. I think it would be really dope to work with her.”

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Being in the studio with big names in the industry isn’t something new for Tone Stith. He’s the mastermind behind some of your favorite records, Chris Brown’s “Liquor”, “Make Love”, and “Undecided”. “I remember back in high school I used to tell people ‘One day I’m going to write for Chris Brown’ and people looked at me like whatever. When those moments actually happened it was like, `Alright, it’s full circle and I’m blessed.’” Stith met Chris Brown through Jaz Prince when he was 19 years old. “I had the opportunity to just play records for him that I was working Issue 77

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on that I had in the vault,” he continues, “He heard “Liquor” and “Make Love” and was like,’Yo, I need those.’” The rest, one can say, is history. When Tone isn’t touring or working in the studio he’s balancing his personal life by disconnecting with music and taking a break. “I make sure that I don’t listen to music for a long period of time. When I go home and see my family I really focus on just having family time and spending that time with them,” he says. “ Its always important for me to do things that I love outside of music so I’m not missing out on life.” Hobbies he has outside of making hit music? “I love motorcycles and cars. I’m rebuilding a few motorcycles right now.

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I have a few cars I’m about to start rebuilding. That’s what I like to do in my spare time. When I’m doing that it inspires me with my writing when I come back to music.” If it weren’t for music, the singer would probably be a race car driver. What’s Next for Tone Stith 2022? New music. “Another layer of Tone Stith and I can’t wait to show everybody,” says the singer. “I’m pretty sure I’ll be on the road. 2022 will be a lot of new music and hopefully, an album which everyone has been waiting for”.

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BOOKS

Words by RYAN KWON

INNOVATIVE READS These novels help creative entrepreneurs tap deeper into their innovative talents.

HOW TO FLY A HORSE

BIG MAGIC Elizabeth Gilbert

STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist inspires to generate creativity from within, not externally. It implores that originality is the best kind of creativity. It also focuses on the reality that creativity is not exclusive to just one individual but for everyone and meant to be shared everywhere. Exemplifying interesting illustrations throughout the book, Austin Kleone explains his 10 principles of the creative process.

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This New York Times #1 Bestseller pulls you into the contagious love for creativity. Author Elizabeth Gilbert captivates her readers by showing them that self-expression through creativity is truly something worth experiencing. She also implores that you tap into your curiosity, rather than push it away. Throughout this read, you can’t help but learn different ways to incorporate creative outlets in your everyday life. No matter your goal, we can almost guarantee that Big Magic is a read for everyone.

Kevin Ashton

APPLIED IMAGINATION Alex Faickney Osborn

Applied Imagination is broken into 13 chapters that inspire its readers to think with originality and to be creative. It aids you on how to tackle problems in a unique manner. While this book may be a bit aged, many of its modern-day readers find that they can learn a lot from Alex Osborn. Whether you are in business, art, both or none at all be sure to read Applied Imagination for a new interesting perspective.

The brilliant Kevin Ashton tells us the “how” when it comes to creative and innovative new beginnings. From starting three successful startups to inspiring thousands of others to do the same, he tells the tale of how some of our most groundbreaking discoveries came to be. Such as the unrightfully credited discovery of DNA, and how brothers of an Ohio bike shop sought out to “make a horse fly.” He apprises that anyone can think the unthinkable and that anyone can imagine the unimaginable. Ashton explains how those who dare to think in such a way are challenged, how they overcome them, and how people who are creative are also successful. He also makes sure to not leave out any topic, from art to science. From business to inventions this book can resonate with the creative in you.

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F E AT U R E

Words by LAUREN “BOBBY PEN” WILLIAMS

HOW LEIGH DAVENPORT WROTE HER TICKET TO HOLLYWOOD The Unexpected Career of a Journalist turned Showrunner

When you’re a multi-hyphenate creator like Leigh Davenport, life is certainly unpredictable. The 37-year-old wife and mother could not have guessed that she’d be a rising force in Hollywood. Always an “expressive” person, Davenport says she channels her feelings through art. “Since I was a child painting, spoken word, writing for the newspaper, and dance allowed me to use my voice,” she says. Today she is one of the most sought-after screenwriters in television & Film, something she never saw coming, because “the goal was to be a magazine editor telling Black stories,” she said. First making her mark during the rise of digital media, Davenport served as Edito-

rial Director for Black lifestyle publication HelloBeautiful.com, telling Black stories that matter. After five years of living in The Big Apple, she noticed a change in the conversations she and her girlfriends had. Steve Harvey’s “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man” had just come out and President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama were de facto #RelationshipGoals. So bothered by this imposed pressure, Davenport decided to critique that moment by writing a show about a group of black women “doing just fine with or without a man.” By the end of 2009, she had the idea for her first scripted television show, Run the World on STARZ. “That was the first time that I wrote a version of that script,” she said about dinner that night. “Just pouring out how angry I was that our conversations were getting tainted by the media and this collective conversation making Black women feel lesser than. I wanted to do something to make Black women feel empowered, loved, and celebrated because that’s how we were living.” Run the World has now been renewed for a second season-- similarly, her first-born daughter is also two years old. While Dav-

s Photography by Jabari Jacobs

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enport believes the show found her, she cannot wait to start writing the next episodes. Taking viewers deeper into who each character is, is what motivates her and makes her tick. “I love these characters. I’ve known them for a very long time,” she said. “The actors are all so phenomenal. [Amber Stevens, Bersha Webb, Corbin Reed and Andrea Bordeaux]. It’s going to be really fun writing now knowing what they’re capable of, and hearing their voices in my head to meld who they are as women into the characters as well.” When asked about comparisons to hit series Girlfriends, Living Single, and Sex and the City, Davenport believes, “all of those shows were super important in the era that they were on, and that’s good company to be in,” she said. However, she believes Run the World is its own engine with its own mission. “We’re showing women who are ambitious and striving for their best selves and that does not center around whether or not they’re going to end up in a relationship,” she said. “I hope more shows will continue to be made that are like that and they’ll be inevitably compared to us. That’s the circle of TV life and it’s cool to be put in that cannon.” Davenport’s mindset of legacy building developed at her HBCU, Spelman College, or “the best thing she’s ever done.” Not only did the educational experience shape her, it groomed her as well as her peers into leaders and encouraged them to hone their

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s Photography by Reese Sherman

unique talents. Davenport says she graduated feeling confident that she would excel at the things she’s good at, and she certainly is. “One of the benefits of being at an HBCU is you’re not focused on being ‘the Black girl,’ you’re focused on being the Black girl you are and that can be anything,” she described. Her place in the ecosystem was “the dance girl” and “newspaper geek.” Today, this sense of self has allowed her to master collaboration by being able to relate to people who are completely different from her. Some of her past partners include co-showrunner Yvette Lee Bowser, Lena Waithe, and Wendy Williams to name a few. For her, the key is to be clear

on what you bring and having the ability to step back and honor what they bring. “With Wendy Williams, for instance, I’m just a vessel in her story,” she recalls. “My opinion doesn’t really matter here. It’s her telling her story how she sees it. My job is to hear that and try to illuminate it in the best way, but she’s the captain of this ship and my job is to support.” Overall, her recommendation to creatives is to literally “understand the assignment.” Period. Davenport’s next venture is an adaptation of The Perfect Find, a movie on Netflix starring Gabrielle Union. The rom-com is based on the book written by Tia Williams, someone whom Davenport interned for as a junior in college. While the exact release

date is still to be determined, Netflix just finished filming, and Numa Perrier is serving as the director. This “badass, fabulous Black chick,” as Davenport describes her, even encouraged the writer to step in front of the camera for a surprise cameo. Leigh Davenport is a great example of the journey a creative can have by simply trusting your gut, completing your projects, and letting life take its course. Davenport looks forward to her legacy inspiring black girls to come. “The timelessness of TV & Film for me felt very romantic and idealistic,” she said. She finds a sense of success when she’s released her work and “people experience it and do what they will with it.”

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F E AT U R E

Words by KAYLIN YOUNG

How Christian Keyes stays the King in Hollywood’s Game of Chess After more than a decade in Hollywood, Christian Keyes is telling his own stories with his latest project, All the Queen’s Men. As a writer, executive producer, and actor, Keyes is looking forward to expanding his legacy.

In the world of Hollywood, it takes a chess-level strategy to build a career instead of allowing the career to build you. After playing the game for 16 years, Christian Keyes is ready to say “King me.” The Flint-bred actor has established his credtis to include creator, author, and producer as he launches his latest project, All the Queen’s Men, on BET+. We caught up with the actor to talk about how his midwest beginnings shaped his perspective, how it feels to be the man that Tyler Perry calls “one of the most consistent actors he’s ever worked with”, and why he’s ready for Bridgerton to give him a royal call. “I was born in Detroit, but Flint, Michigan groomed me and raised me,” said Keyes as he distinguished his “Flintstone ‘’ roots. “It’s a beautiful bluecollar city where you get what you work for. You grind. That’s one of the most ingrained lessons in me.” Growing surrounded by granny, aunts, and wise women from his community, Keyes was raised by queens and it was his best friend’s mother who took him out of foster care to adopt him, a moment he initially protested but expressed with gratitude. While Keyes grew up around strong Black women, many Black women grew up watching Keyes lay his foundation in Diary of a Mad Black Woman and Let’s Stay Together binding him to the cliches of the cute.

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“I thought the story needed to be told from the urban side - the gritty, urban, soulful side of this world because it’s never been told. Then, I thought ‘let’s turn the strip club culture on its head by putting a boss woman at the center.’ So we created a Queen of the South meets Rihanna type of character who is such a strong character that she demands everyone around her to be strong and real. So the men around her had to be real - not just beefcakes. So I got out of the way and let the characters tell the story.” Watching the series trailer transports you to the powerful prowress of the southern nightclub scene. It was important for Keyes to shine a light on what truly happens in Black club settings for those who have experienced it and those who haven’t. Keyes said, “Some of the men in our cast have danced in those settings in real life before, and they thanked me afterward for making it real.”

“Initially, the role was sterotypical -- cute guy at bible study saves the day… cute guy at the bookstore… then they started to see that I can do comedy, action, sci-fi. BET has been wonderful for me and it gave me the platform to now play an angel on Supernatural or a demon on Legends of Tomorrow and now on The Boys on Amazon Prime.” With more diversity in his characters, Keyes is excited that his audience now includes his son. “I couldn’t hold his attention when I was playing an attorney on BET’s In Contempt because nothing was exploding.” As Keyes’ projects transition from TV and film to streaming, his audience is growing even bigger. “Growth is necessary and I felt it was coming anyway. Now the industry understands that we need to pay more attention to stories from people of color because it’s about damn time. Our dollars are powerful, spend some with us, include us. We don’t just have to play the thug or prisoner or the bouncer in something -- we deserve substantial roles. Streaming services are earning our dollars by making space for our stories.”

In between building his body of work and hiring dozens of people of color, Keyes is paying close attention to other projects he’s hoping to get in on as well. “There are more stories now that consumers can watch and feel like it’s affecting and representing their lives. In Bridgerton, the queen is Black, the duke is Black. The duke became the most beloved character and that duke needs a brother,” Keyes said with eyes that say he’s ready to step into the royal cloak as a Bassett bro. While we manifest Keyes as the next hire into the Netflix kingdom, Keyes will likely be jotting notes for his next project. The actor says, “I get an idea for a new show or movie once a month. I get an idea for a new song at least twice a month.” Upon those ideas is his latest work, All the Queen’s Men, a BET+ original about a Madam (played by Eva Marcille) who is at the top of her game in the Atlanta nightclub industry, and she won’t let anyone or anything stand her in the way as she rules a crew of male exotic dancers. The concept, which Keyes worked on for 11 years -- yes, you read that correctly -- was inspired by a storyline that previously excluded the Black perspective.

One of those men happens to be Keyes himself ! “It was also inspired from an amateur night dare from my girlfriend at the time, who dared me to dance. I cut the sleeves off my trench coat, got a cowboy hat, went down there, and did work! When I ran out of dance moves, I whipped my hair around -- this is when my hair was long! It taught me to get out of my own way as a performer and as somebody who wasn’t always brave in my own voice.” As Keyes’ career comes full circle back to his BET family, he’s grateful for the opportunity “to hire brilliant beautiful people of color who look like me and may not have gotten a shot. Moving forward, I plan to continue because I have multiple shows and films written already and I’m ready to help employ other talented people… whether I’m starring in them or not, I’m excited to see how other people bring these characters to life.” With season one already uploaded on BET+, Keyes is ready to give the praise to God and continue building his legacy. “It’s thrilling to think about the possibility of leaving my legacy. In 40 years when God comes to get me, I want my tank empty. I want to spend all the creative currency God’s given me.” At the pace he’s going now, we’re sure that creative currency will be fully spent.

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Issue 77

OP-ED

Words by NINO REYES

Photography by KEENAN BEASLEY ON UNSPLASH

Independent Creatives The Pros and Cons of Being a Creative Freelancer

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Independent contractors find that there are many pros and cons to working directly for themselves. Many of them find that there is a high level of flexibility that allows them to pick and choose which clients they’d like to work with, the ability to schedule their time as they please, to be their own boss, and to avoid that sluggish morning commute that most people have to experience. An independent contractor is known for providing a valuable skill set and for being experts in their field. They have the ability to make decisions on how the job gets done. They are also expected to pay their own employee and self-employment taxes, which can be one of the downsides for many. Independent contractors are also known as freelancers - and you will come across many people who work in the art, media, fashion, and creative industries who hold this title. According to UpWork’s 2019 Freelancing in America survey, there’s a reported 57 million American freelancers that contribute approximately $1 trillion dollars to the economy annually. In this article, we will explore the experiences of creatives in these industries who have experienced the ups and downs of being an independent contractor and their individual perspectives, including the differences between an employee and an independent contractor. There are many distinctions between an employee and an independent contractor. Employees usually receive instruction and training from their employer, including that they usually work for one employer on a continuous basis and they perform a key function or role in the business. As an employee, workers can receive benefits such as insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursements, corporate discounts, paid vacations, retirement plans, performance bonuses, including stock options (the ability for an employee to buy shares of the company they work for, generally at a price lower than the market). The benefits that employees receive from their employers are usually one of the main driving forces that push people to continue working at a business or corporation. It allows employees to feel secure and financially protected. On the other hand, independent contractors face the challenge of not being protected with benefits since they

are considered self-employed. They also face legal challenges, since many independent contractors feel that there aren’t enough resources available to protect their careers. The state of California has passed the California Assembly Bill 5 (also known as AB 5) which is an employment law that took effect in January 2020. This law has caused a decline in businesses and income since it codifies the ABC test, which helps employers determine who should be classified as a freelancer. This law requires most companies to reclassify contract, freelance, and contingent workers, in order to hire as full-time employees who are eligible for benefits. Although this may sound ideal, there are many independent contractors who would rather remain self-employed. Many independent contractors have seen a decline in job opportunities in the state of California due to this law since there are corporations who prefer not to add to their payroll and rather cut on cost. Overall, the AB 5 law has radically changed 30 years of worker classification and has reclassified millions as employees. It has significantly reformed the future of independent workforces in California. Many freelancers on the east coast are now worried that a similar law would eventually take effect in the state of New York and New Jersey. The AB 5 law has shown the lack of security that is provided for freelancers and the challenges that many are currently facing. Creatives who are independent contractors can face numerous challenges when offering their services and expertise to brands and businesses throughout the industry. Pianca Liriano, CEO of Creative Culture Society - CCS Agency has shared, “As a Latina woman, I have felt discriminated against and I didn’t have the privilege as a freelancer to go to HR, whereas instead, we would have to go through a legal process by hiring a lawyer since we don’t have any representation from the corporation we’re working with.” Liriano, who has worked in the field of marketing and branding for over 17 years, had shared that she has been told by a client that she comes off as a “stereotypical Latina” due to her hospitable persona. This made her feel discouraged and highly offended. These are the kinds of discriminatory and prejudicial experiences that freelancers sometimes experience. Another challenge that many creative in-

dependent contractors face is working beyond the hours that were initially agreed to and not being paid extra for those services. Music video producer and CEO of Sista Castings, Briana Sista has stated, “as a producer, I believe that when you’re negotiating your contract with your client, you must make sure that your rate is listed for a specific amount of hours and that the rate is subject to change if you go overtime. It is one of the main challenges that I face while working in this business, especially while working on the production of music videos.” Many independent contractors who work as creatives find that their hours can be extended without being offered extra pay. It is important that from a legal perspective, everyone is protecting themselves and their labor. Although there are challenges and downsides to being an independent contractor - it does come with a lot of beneficial and worthwhile experiences. Cardi B’s former tour DJ, DJ Sparkx shared, “I enjoy the freedom of working for different brands and clients - having the flexibility to control my schedule as I please. Knowing that if I want to take off tomorrow, I can.” DJ Sparkx continued to explain that having full control of your brand is key. He stated, “anything that I do for a business as an employee, solely belongs to that employee. Whereas, as an independent contractor, you can use the work that you have produced to get more jobs by adding it to your portfolio.” Kuri, who is the CEO of Kreated by Kuri, is a Philadelphia graphic designer who works for herself. She shared, “An advantage to being an independent graphic designer is the fact that I can work wherever I want. All I need is my laptop. This definitely helps me with my creativity because I may feel uninspired at home but I can head over to the park and work from there - and this allows for my creativity to flow.” This comes to show that being an independent contractor comes with its challenges but there are a lot of positives that make up for it. Although working independently may not come with certain benefits, you definitely get the opportunity to have more control of your work and time - which the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us the importance of maintaining a work and life balance.

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HUMANS

ENGINEERS WITHOUT BORDERS Black engineers shaping society and resetting standards.

In Corporate America, companies, and organizations, some tend to undervalue people with advanced tech and science skills compared to fashion, entertainment, and music – giving thick attention to those behind our leisure versus those behind our livelihood. Engineers virtually affect every aspect of our society from the mediums we use to travel to the devices and software we use to communicate. Almost everything we see and touch is attributed to the world of engineering. Engineers are the silent leaders of modern society and improve our quality of life with a never-ending mix of design, discipline, and detail. As iconic figures – like Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Elijah McCoy – paved the way for BIPOC in the industry, new talent has launched Black engineers into new spaces. With time comes change, and today’s engineers are pushing the envelope and stepping out of the ordinary, breaking barriers. Here are three extraordinary engineers breaking the mold to reimagine Black, bold, brilliance.

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HUMANS

BRANDON YOUNG Atlanta, GA | Electrical Engineer, Business Management Consultant, Nightlife Entrepreneur

What was your introduction to engineering? My introduction to engineering was through a high school research paper required by my English teacher. What made you choose this specific lane in the field of engineering? I chose the field [of ] engineering because I was always intrigued by the “why” and “how” things came together. Your engineering background has sprouted into several endeavors. Most see engineering as a lucrative career, but don’t easily see the possibilities. Tell us some of the jobs you have and can take advantage of in engineering. Engineering has been the backbone of my career in the utility industry. I have served as a design engineer, field superintendent, assistant project manager, Sr. Project Manager, and now business owner. Engineering has allowed and taught me to think outside the box and problem solve. What are some things you wish more people knew about engineering? Engineers are key to the world and will forever have a job need. Engineers are paid to think. What do you enjoy most about engineering? What do you find the most rewarding? Being an electrical engineer in the utility industry brings me great pleasure knowing that I play a key role in ensuring someone can turn their lights and gas on daily from the work we perform behind the scenes.

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KIESHA ROBINSON-JONES Houston, TX | EIndustrial Engineer, Entrepreneur

Please explain your engineering type for those unfamiliar. I studied and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Industrial Engineering. This specific type of engineering is focused on the optimization of complex processes, systems, or designs. Simply put, this field of engineering is taught how to make things or processes more simple and user-friendly. What was your introduction to engineering? My formal introduction to engineering was at Westlake High School in the math and science magnet program. I always enjoyed math and science but was most intrigued when we learned about all the things in life influenced by math and science concepts. Our assignment on the first day of engineering was to take apart an object and present the next day how it worked. I loved working on a team exchanging ideas and describing the mechanics behind an object that seemed so simple. Once I decided engineering was the path, my first year in college at Clemson University allowed us to briefly explore each type of engineering before needing to specify a focus (computer, civil, electrical, chemical, industrial, etc.). I was drawn to industrial engineering because it spoke to my natural curiosity on how to improve things. I always was able to translate very technical concepts to laymen terms. Engineering is present in nearly every aspect of our environment. Name something in society that relies heavily on engineering that most may not know. This is going to sound weird- but plastics. Most people have no idea that food packaging has 7 or 9 layers or more. One package has to perform multiple functions- the plastic needs a barrier to keep foods protected from moisture and make it through transport miles away while still staying fresh till an expiration date months later. But that same food package has to have an easy open when a kid is ready to eat it or hold in the microwave if it needs to be heated. The same amount of engineering goes into plastics for a medical gown layer, a baby diaper, turf that we watch sports performed on, bioreactor bags to grow cultures and develop vaccines, and the list goes on and on. I know so much about plastics because I am the North America Product Director for our polyethylene (plastic) units at Dow. And while many times plastic

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itself gets a bad name- Its intriguing the amount of science and development I get to see that impacts our life every day. As a woman of color in engineering, are there any stigmas do you combat in the industry? What progression would you like to see for women professionally rooted in STEM fields? There are stigmas that come with being a woman of color in any industry. The gendering of roles that happen where people assume the lead engineer is a male, or assumes that since you are a female on the team you want to take notes. However – especially in more technical fields where discussions are more straightforward and fact based – a confident or challenging tone sometimes gets perceived as angry or aggressive instead of an answer you’ve given a great deal of thought to. The progression I would like to see is for us to embrace being Black and women- not trying to “fit in” and be one of the guys. Instead- embrace and talk more openly about why our views and experiences coming from different backgrounds makes things better. Women are underrepresented in engineering. What advice would you give aspiring women to achieve past the obstacles? Don’t sell yourself short. We need Black and women’s voices and input at the table to make the world better. When Black women are at the table the discussion is richer. More perspective and lenses when looking at a problem take results to a new level. Ask yourself “If not me, who? If not now, when?”

HUMANS

JARRED CONLEY Washington, D.C. | Aerospace Engineer, Pilot, Project Manager

For those who are unfamiliar, explain aerospace engineering. Aerospace Engineering is the field of study that develops things that fly, inside and outside of Earth’s atmosphere. We’re your rocket scientists and we design everything from commercial aircraft and drones to spacecraft and satellites. What made you choose this specific lane in the field of engineering? Before I talk about aerospace engineering, I’d like to touch on a practical application, flight, which I got my first taste of as a rising high school senior thanks to the Organization of Black Airline Pilots (OBAP) Aviation Career Enrichment (ACE) program. As a child, I sought to understand how things worked and would constantly take things apart - living a few miles from the busiest airport in the world afforded me the opportunity to see a constant barrage of aircraft overhead and this marvel was no different - I wanted to know how it worked. Over time - I became able to distinguish the type of an aircraft based on the sound it produced and I could make inferences about the weather based on arrival and departure patterns. My first job was at that airport, at a pizza company, not because I needed the money but because I wanted to get closer to the planes that frequented my childhood home. So that first ACE discovery flight not only solidified my love for aviation but it also set me on a path to understand the theory and science of how flight was possible. As a pilot, project manager, and former public official, how does engineering influence your career paths? Engineering values and processes are woven into all my activities, personal and professional. The engineering approach is methodical and in aerospace engineering, where the risk tolerance is low, being objective and prepared to combat unforeseen challenges is of prime importance. These skills are highly transferable and viewing life through an engineering lens allows me to distill down where to best spend my energy, shift seamlessly across efforts, and be efficient. Whether it be developing a community center, developing an unmanned aerial capability, a clothing line, or flying cross country solo - the approach is the same: Define requirements, set milestones, establish success criteria, etc. Many of the engineering decisions I make have life or death consequences and I apply that same scientific rigor to better the world around me and influence change.

Through this lens, I admire other developed nations across Africa and Asia where the majority of those that rise to be thought or political leaders have scientific backgrounds. The US is different in that we idolize entertainers more than Nobel laureates (and if polled, I’d imagine many would struggle to name a single Nobel laureate from their lifetime). Many of our lawmakers do not have scientific background and are not sworn to a Hippocratic Oath or engineering ethical code. Traditionally, engineers are not seen in your capacity. What advice would you give trained engineers who are uncertain of how to utilize their background? The best advice I could give is to stay true and stay you. You have already conquered one of the most challenging intellectual disciplines and that engineering background is highly transferable. Don’t be afraid to expand your thinking to the macro level or deep dive into the details when necessary. Your ability to understand highly complex technical challenges will be a breath of fresh air during your different endeavors. What do you enjoy most about engineering? What would you like to see more of? The most enjoyable part of engineering is seeing thought translated into technology or capabilities. Everything around you started as a thought or a sketch that an engineer brought into reality. Many of those ideas have the ability to improve the world around us and improve the life of future generations. The idea that my grandchildren may utilize or benefit from a technology I created long ago excites and encourages me. Looking toward the future, I would like to see more minority-owned engineering companies. The pathways for aerospace engineers are limited and options to work for a large minority-owned company are nearly non-existent. The HBCUs pumping out top caliber engineers should have pathways for those students to work for minority owned companies. Representation is important and we need more people in key leadership positions to shepherd the next generation.

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FA S H I O N

Wear BRIMS, Wear Confidence Co-Founders Archie Clay III and Tahj Crutch Reinvent Black style and Black History with BRIMS

Archie Clay III and Tahj Crutch are about more than success, they are about setting the standard for their families. Longtime friends and fraternity brothers [of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.], Clay and Crutch are the co-founders of BRIMS premium luxury fashion brand. BRIMS instills unapologetic confidence in everyone one brim at a time. And “Bro…I’m dead ass” are the four words that started it all. “I will start something and put it down…” Tahj confesses. He shares that creativity is his feat over commitment and he’s “grateful” for Archie’s commitment to follow up and follow through. From a background filled with “best dressed” family members and seeing his grandmother bask in the Black church culture of big hats, Crutch was already playing around with fedoras – for his own style – when Archie presented the idea of BRIMS. Like many creatives, ideas come a dime a dozen. So, when Archie called the next day with the concept, Tahj took heed and decided to match his friend’s energy.

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Archie’s persistence aside, Tahj was destined to design with his best friend. “Dang, my name means crown [in Arabic] and I’m creating luxury fedoras. The Lord works in mysterious ways.” Born and based in Atlanta, Georgia, BRIMS’ core is rooted in faith, family, and confidence…and it lacks none of the three. In fact, each hat is a symbol of such. “In order to be the best you can’t be average. And Tahj and I aren’t average! It’s as simple as that.” The duo delivers detail from their feather toppers and silk trimmings to their eco-friendly dust bags. High-quality fedoras, five panel caps, and fitted hats, BRIMS brings headgear full circle. Their designs are bold, timeless, and stylish at the intersection of a little swagger and a lot of hard work. Hard work that has been recognized in Oprah Daily, Black Enterprise, HBCU Buzz, British GQ, and The Root – and worn by the likes of Karen Civil, Eva Marcille, Keri Hilson, and Chris Paul.

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FA S H I O N

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For two men with no fashion backgrounds, faith is paying off in good measure. “[It’s an] opportunity to leave something for our families. In our culture, two Black men creating a luxury brand – especially fedoras – is something that’s never been done before.” Inspired by their grandmothers, their drive to create a legacy worth leaving is important and evident in every stitch. As our ancestors wore brims, fedoras, and top hats as symbols of style and class, Archie and Tahj pour into BRIMS for their descendants to wear with confidence and a sense of pride. Now, BRIMS is the first Black-owned luxury hat company to be sold in Nordstrom. Also available in Neiman Marcus, combined, BRIMS are on display in the luxury department stores over six states. And Clay and Crutch believe “…it will only get better”. “This brand is my grandmother. When I thought about the idea I was thinking about her. My grandmother is my everything. I go hard for my family, so why not go hard for BRIMS?!” The leading lady of inspiration, his [Archie’s] grandmother’s death from cancer – over five years prior to BRIMS launch – still lights the fire that keeps BRIMS hot. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. And BRIMS is the new crown of the culture.

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S P OT L I G H T

Words by ANTHENY RAIY

HILLTOP COFFEE + KITCHEN, California’s signature coffee and cafe scene Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen is a full-time grind brewing in metro Los Angeles by the city’s very own: Yonnie Hagos, Ajay Relan, and Issa Rae. Founded by co-creators Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen is more than an eatery serving up breakfast, lunch and lattes. It’s an all-inclusive cultural stop serving coffee and “conscious comfort” food for the creator, writer, and father alike, who all live in the communities in which it serves. Hilltop is young, trendy, warm and lends welcome to the neighborhoods that hug it. “Being from LA, it is here in these surrounding neighborhoods that we spent our formative years. We take pride in creating fun environments for people to connect with each other and themselves”, says owners Hagos and Relan on the inspiration behind the opening of Hilltop. “We’re young and ambitious, climbing our own hilltops personally and professionally, just like everyone else”, they add, which lends insight on how they selected the name for the establishment. “The name Hilltop represents the goals we all share, as well as these very obstacles that we must overcome in order to reach wherever it is we want to go.”

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Yonnie and Ajay are not new to the restaurant world. They are the masterminds behind popular West Hollywood high-end sports bar and grill, The Parlor, located on famed Melrose Boulevard. After success there, they turned their attention to a more personal mission. Realizing the lack of coffee shops in South LA where they hail from, in comparison to other neighborhoods of the greater Los Angeles area, they birthed the idea of Hilltop in 2018. They found a perfect partner in Issa Rae, who’s values and missions align with theirs for the community in which they sprouted,and together in 2019 opened a second location. The partners met Issa through mutual friends and realized their shared love for coffee shops and what they represent to the communities they exist within. “Coffee is a conduit for creativity”, expresses Ajay, who says his favorite is their Ethiopian Brew. As if they don’t already have enough on their plate, Relan is heavily involved in #HashtagLunchbag, a nonprofit that provides lunches to DTLA’s homeless population which started at The Parlor in 2012. Hilltop’s first location is located near Nipsey Hussle’s block of stores on Slauson Avenue and Overhill in the View Park-Windsor Hills area. In early December of 2019, Hill-

top opened its doors to a second location on La Brea in Inglewood, minutes from Stevie Wonder’s KJLH radio station and downtown Market Street. Recently they opened doors on a third location, in the trendy neighborhood of Eagle Rock, which Issa also serves as a co-founder. Hilltop is open 7 days a week until 3pm (5pm at the View Park-Windsor Hills location), so stop by when you’re around one and make sure to tell them Bleu Magazine sent you!

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BLEULIST

BLACK POETS

Just Mike the Poet

Hill Harper

Camille Dungy

Rob Hill

Cornel West

Morgan Parker

Nikki Giovanni

Tupac Shakur

Clint Smith

Langston Hughes

Paul Dunbar

Taylor Lauren Davis

Maya Angelou

Dudley Randall

Hanif Abdurraqib

Audre Lorde

Claude McKay

Mahogany L. Browne

Derek Walcott

Toni Morrison

Nicole Sealy

The Dark Room Collective

James Weldon Johnson

Danez Smith

Jasmine Mans

Alice Walker

Donte Collins

Amanda Gorman

Rita Dove

Alysia Harris

Amiri Baraka

Aja Monet

Malcolm London

Earl Simmons [DMX]

Camonghne Felix

Bettina Judd

Phillis Wheatley

Kara Jackson

Mari Evans

Margaret Walker

Staceyann Chin

Nayyirah Waheed

Claudia Rankine

Jericho Brown

Jamila Woods

Jamaal May

Tracy K. Smith

Yrsa Daley-Ward

Terrance Hayes

Sekou Sundiata

Alexandra Elle

Robert Hayden

Nathaniel Mackey

Elizabeth Alexander

Yona Harvey

Khadijah Queen

Ntozake Shange

Michael S. Harper

Porsha Olayiwola

Cheryl Clarke

Melvin Dixon

Crystal Valentine

Safia Elhillo

Lucille Clifton

Wanda Coleman

Madison Petaway

Gwendolyn Brooks

June Jordan

Samuel Getachew

Vivian Ayers

Sonia Sanchez

Inari Williams

Michael Eric Dyson

Alexis Gumbs

Akilah Toney

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ICON Words by TAYLOR EDWARDS Photo Credit RODRIGO VARELA FOR GETTY IMAGES

Michael K. Williams T H E M A N . N O MYTH. A LEGEND.

September 2021 marked the unfortunate and untimely loss of a great American talent who we all know as Michael K. Williams. A multi-faceted creative, Michael Kenneth Williams lived in the light as a television and film actor, activist, dancer, model, and choreographer. As a young hopeful from East Flatbush Brooklyn, New York, he was raised in Vanderveer Projects (now known as Flatbush Gardens) – a group of red brick buildings covering over 30 acres on Foster Avenue. He attended the National Black Theatre in New York where he grew interest in different forms of the arts. A passionate choreographer, he supported George Michael and Madonna as a background dancer until an opportunity to pursue acting presented itself in the 1996 film Bullet along with Tupac Shakur. His portrayal of High Top the henchman marked the beginning of Williams’ film legacy as one of the most dynamic and decorated actors of all time. Michael’s prolific voice, unique demeanor, and signature facial scar led him to become some of the best characters to fear ever on screen.

The Actor Captivating audiences with his breakthrough role Michael is best known for his character in The Wire, Omar Little. An HBO original drama he owned the role as an openly gay notorious stickup man with a sawed-off shotgun. Williams rose to fame in 2002 with the critically acclaimed role as one of the most mainstream LGBT characters on television earning an NAACP Image Award for Best Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series.

2012 he executive produced the independent film Snow In Tha Bluff introducing Curtis Snow. In 2016 he set scripts aside to host The Black Market on Vice – a docu-series following the underground market of crimes, scams, and schemes [much like those who he grew up with in East Flatbush].

His popularity grew in hip-hop with cameos – both starring and substantial – music video roles for Cam’ron, R. Kelly, Young Jeezy, Trick Daddy, The Game, and more.

Recalling his younger self as “…very soft, very fragile”, Williams remained transparent about his addiction, his sexuality, and his sensitivity. Equally sharing his strengths and his struggles, he was a man of many emotions, no shame, and unseen selflessness – constantly expending himself for the sake of entertainment.

Though type-casted for his rough, misleading exterior, Michael was dedicated to each and every character from our favorite episodes of Law & Order to his unforgivable role as Anton McCray in Netflix’s When They See Us, and his Emmy-nominated portrayal of Montrose Freeman, the complex habitually drunk father of Atticus in HBO’s Lovecraft Country. Williams’ talent was a skill that shined in front of and behind the camera lens. In

Michael’s effort to represent all lives of Vanderveer Projects, not just one, never died.

“The characters that mean the most to me are the ones that damn near kill me. It’s a sacrifice I’ve chosen to make.” In his passing Michael K. Williams is remembered by all for his sacrificial pieces of art – and we thank the man, the myth, and the legend of Mr. Williams.

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Photography by DAION CHESNEY

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