Issue 88 Jerrie Johnson

Photography by ANDREW ZAEH

Fashion by JOIEE THORPE

JERRIE JOHNSON A CLASS ACT

Publisher

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Managing Editors

Antheny Raiy, Justin Wallace

Editor Chris Law

Editor-At-Large

Kent Olden

Creative Director

Andrew Zaeh

Art Direction

Aspasia Bouzakis

Deputy Editor

Gary Dickson

Graphic Designer

Russell Caras

Contributing Editor

Chevy Wolf

West Coast Fashion Editor

Apuje Kalu

UK Fashion Editor

Sean Azeez

Social Media Strategist

Livingston Steele

Copy Editor

Eric Charles Munson

Videographers

Dante Williams, Anthony “Bubba.G” Gutierrez

Contributing Writers

DJ Chalant, Becca Bond, Jason Kwame, Kirby Carroll, Eric Charles Munson, Anna Kim, Nicholas Hernandez, Emmanuel Perilla, Elisha Ricketts, Truth Hawkins, E. Osborne

Contributing Photographers

Tyler Dacumos, Tony Bowen, Kobby Abaidoo, Ian Lim, Jannick Boerlum

Interns

Dominic Papalia, Karanpreet Daulke

The BleuLife Media Group

Chairman, CEO & President

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Digital Partnerships

Sam Doliner, Maxwell Bashy advertise@bleulife.com

Print AD Sales

Todd Evans

Rivendell Media 908.232.2021

Web Design

Muhammad Azeem

ECommerce Design Lead

Steve Wiley

East Coast Partnerships & Ecommerce

Justin Wallace

West Coast Partnerships & Special Projects

Antheny Raiy

Licenses & Joint Ventures

David DeGraff

Oaklins | DeSilva+Phillips d.graff@dp.oaklins.com

Brand Ambassadors Rannon Harris (Chicago-Midwest)

LeRoy Williams (New York- Northeast)

Newsstand Distribution

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Submissions

Bleu Magazine

26 Broadway 3rd Floor New York, NY 10004 info@bleulife.com

Photography By ANDREW ZAEH

Words By CHRIS LAW

Allmylife(Allmylife)

Theybeentryin'tokeepmedown (Theybeentrynakeepmedown)

All this time (All this time)

NeverthoughtIwouldmakeitout (NeverthoughtI'dmakeitout)

Theycouldn'tbreakme,theycouldn'tbreakmе (No, no)

Theycouldn'ttakeme,thеycouldn'ttakeme (No)

Allmylife (Allmylife)

Theybeentryin'tokeepmedown (Theybeentrynakeepmedown)

I decided I had to finish

But the media called me a menace

Idonesatwiththemayorandpoliticians,I'm trynachangetheimage

Youcan'tblamemypastnomore,Icomefrom the trenches

Some said I'd never be a superstar, but I know I'm different (No, no, no)

ALL MY LIFELIL DURK (FEAT. J. COLE)

What really matters? To some, nothing. I believe everything matters. There was a time during the COVID19 Pandemic we as a society collectively thought it might be the end. Doomsday was approaching and since we weren't prepared for it- giving into the perceived inevitably was the easy choice. Not here at BleuLife. By all means we took the pandemic and all of the grief and harm it inflected seriously. But, we did not see it as an end. Perhaps an end to the “before.” But not, the end of the future.

Truthfully, we weren't prepared for a global pandemic and economic fallout at all. We had photoshoots planned, events booked and interviews in process. Then the world halted. Instead of focusing on what we could not change. We decided to prepare for the comeback. We know human resilience and the power of mankind to overcome obstacles (ie the plague, World Wars, 911 and countless others). Government would do the thing it is supposed to do for the people. However flawed it may be. So the otherside was coming. Even if we didn’t know how long it would take.

So, here we are. The other side.

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

Eddie OSBORNE

Eddie Osborne is a former adjunct lecturer in English from the University of Miami and a one-time ESL teacher at the Inlingua School of Languages who recently returned to freelance writing after a lengthy hiatus. When not researching or writing, Osborne crafts African musical instruments, which he merchandises through http://www.etsy.com/shop/ PanAfricanArts?ref=seller-platform-mcnav.

Truth HAWKINS

Ruth "the Truth" Hawkins is a New York-based storyteller who prides herself on offering diverse content across culture, entertainment, and lifestyle. Getting her big break at Bossip, over 10 years ago, she has since lent her pen to xoNecole, Black Doctor, HipHopDX, and Rolling Out magazine, to name a few. When she's not facilitating conversations with extraordinary people, you can find her training to be a spin instructor, strolling through Central Park, or racing to grab an iced latte ahead of exploring the city with her two kids in tow.

HERNANDEZ

Nicholas Hernandez is New York-based arts and culture reporter, covering multiple facets of the New York City scene. From fashion shows to mutual aid organizations and restaurants, his work has appeared in EaterNY, the Bronx Times and AMNY. Nicholas is a recent graduate of the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism in New York City.

Kirby CARROLL

Kirby Carroll, MA is a passionate creative with a zest for brand-building and storytelling based in Atlanta, Ga. Her love for the arts and creative marketing shows through her authentic writing style and past projects. When not immersed with work, you can find her binging the latest television series, exploring new places, or simply spending time with loved ones. Keep up with Kirby on social media at @AskKirbyCarroll.

Emily in Paris Season

Emily in Paris

Paris & New York

Season 3 Premieres

Photos Courtesy of Netflix

5th Urban One Honors

Urban One, a media brand based in Silver Spring, Maryland, taped the fifth annual Urban One Honors program in Atlanta. The theme of this year’s event was “Icons of the Culture,” honoring numerous individuals who made “extraordinary contributions” in entertainment, media, music, politics, education and community include rapper LL Cool J, entertainer Bobby Brown, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and singer-songwriter Pharell Williams.

For more information visit TVOne.tv.

Bowers & Wilkins INTRODUCES NEW LINE WIRELESS SPEAKERS

INNOVATIVE S PEAKERS BY DESIGN AND ACOUSTICS

By Eric Charles Munson

On May 17, 2023, Bowers & Wilkins, a British audio brand released the new Zeppelin wireless speaker.

The Zeppelin speaker is notable for its high-quality acoustics and unusual design, resembling the iconic shape of the nowdefunct Zeppelin airships.

Named after its inventor Ferdinand von Zeppelin, these large, lightweight rigid airships were designed in Germany at the beginning of the 20th century. They were used for both military and passenger service. However, the infamous Hindenburg disaster of 1937, as well as political and economic issues, led to Zeppelins quickly falling out of fashion.

In addition to the acoustics, Zeppelin also comes with various connective and smart features. It can stream Apple, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Adaptive Connect, Spotify, Digital Signal Processing and, of course, the company’s own music streaming app.

Connecting the speaker is easy and requires wireless connection over a mobile device, a tablet, a laptop or a desktop computer as a “remote control.” Once paired, any audio source device can be used.

Zeppelin’s audio quality may be affected by its placement in a room such as being placed against a wall. It is possible to remotely adjust the settings and change both the bass and treble registers.

Zeppelin also comes with a downwardfacing LED that illuminates the bottom of the speaker. The light can be turned on and off and the brightness can also be adjusted. The light will turn on whenever Zeppelin is in use and will turn off automatically after 20 minutes of inactivity.

If other Bowers & Wilkins products are present in the home and already connected to Wi-Fi, Zeppelin will not prompt users to input the password. It will use the Quick Connect function and send the information

securely between devices.

Zeppelin is compatible with iPhones, iPads and iPods running iOS 11.4 or later, Apple TV 4K, 4th Generation Apple TVs with TV OS 11.4 or later and Mac and PC running iTunes 12.8 or later.

Zeppelin comes with Amazon’s Alexa built-in. The user can ask Alexa for their favorite song or playlist. Plus, the speaker is upgradable so users will always have access to the newest services and features. When a software update is available, a tag is marked on the Settings icon.

Zeppelin makes use of the drive units that have been used on other Bowers & Wilkins products such as headphones and loudspeakers. In addition to music, Zeppelin also offers streaming services, podcasts and radio stations, all in 24-bit high-resolution quality.

As to be expected with such an unusual design, the Zeppelin is 8.3 inches tall, 7.6 inches deep and 25.6 inches long. It is also decently heavy, weighing 6.5 kg or about 14 pounds. The manual warns about placing the speaker on shelves as many have a

weight limit.

Zeppelin comes in two colors: midnight gray and pearl gray. It also has a frequency response ranging from 35 Hz to 24 kHz. It comes with a 240W amplifier power output.

Zeppelin is also environmentally sustainable. It can automatically regulate its own power state. When connected to the internet and not in use, it only consumes below two watts of energy in sleep mode.

Zeppelin requires a main power supply to operate, but can also work in a wired format with a USB-C cable connected to a home’s ethernet system. Ethernet cables are not included.

Zeppelin is also easy-to-clean. It can be cleaned with any lint-free cloth or a soft brush. If using cleaning products, apply onto the cloth and not directly onto the speaker.

Zeppelin currently costs around $799 on the company’s website. It is also for sale on Amazon ranging from around $700 to $800.

The website also provides an instruction manual, an information sheet and a quick start guide.

MEACH IS DOPE

My Name is Demetrio, but I go by “Meachisdope” on social media. I’m originally from San Diego, but I currently live in Las Vegas. The thing I love most about sneakers/ streetwear is the ability to express yourself artistically. I consider pairing a nice pair of sneakers and a dope outfit as an art form.

GENERAL PURPOSE

TOM SACHS X NIKE

JORDAN 12 BRED JORDAN 11 COUNTDOWN PACK)

MARS BLACKMAN AIR JORDAN

TAXI

SYRACUSE NIKE

DUNK LOW

ROC-A-FELLA AIR FORCE 1

NIGEL KEEPER

NIGEL KEEPER

NIGEL KEEPER

I ’M NIGEL KEEPER – and this is my story. I was born and raised in Philadelphia where I graduated from job corps trade school. My passion for hair started when I was really young, maybe nine or 10 years old.

My fascination with hair came from watching my mom and aunt, who were identical twins, do eachothers hair all the time, and that was around the time full weave caps were becoming a thing. I still remember the first hair store I ever went into, which was in Kensington Allegheny, Philadelphia of course…and I’m not gonna lie, I loved going to the hair store.

The cashier who was Chinese used to always give them free stuff because they were there every week or every other week getting their packs of Remy. I became fascinated with hair at such a young age because I saw how much it transformed the person inside and out, in such a beautiful flawless way.

My mom loved a side part, my aunt loved a middle part and they always had a pair of sunglasses on top of their head. They would look so beautiful with lipstick n’ all. I just really admire a woman’s beauty and potential. At that age I thought boys weren’t supposed to like things that girls liked, like weaves, wigs, etc, so I never really expressed it then, but I’m sure they knew because I used to just sit in one spot for hours and watch them take turns doing each other’s hair.

The first person’s hair I ever did was my mother’s – when my aunt died my mom wasn’t really into letting other people do her hair because they never did it right. My mom had one favorite hairstyle, which was a full weave cap and she would put it in a side part with a swoop across the forehead, and she almost always wore straight hair.

One day one of her friends did her hair and didn’t do it right – my mom took half of it out and let me fix it just the way she liked it. She was so happy and I’ve been doing her hair ever since, and that happened in middle school.

It wasn’t until 21 though that I started taking my talents seriously, that’s when I started watching wig influencers like Malibu Dollface and Tokyo Stylez. This was now at a time when lace front wigs were becoming really popular. I remember my sister being the first to teach me how to sew tracks onto a wig cap because I had no clue on how this was done. I wanted to learn and once I got the hang of it I was making her a new wig almost every month.

In the midst of that I was perfecting my craft, staying up late at night watching nothing but hair and wig tutorials on YouTube because I really wanted my work to be one of the best. I didn’t have any connections to anyone that could put me in a shop to guide me because nobody in my family really had a passion for hair professionally. My family is also really small so I had to get it where I can, which was YouTube as far as learning about wigs. I started promoting my work on Instagram and my sister would usually be my hair muse for content.

Now let me say, I only enjoy making custom wigs. I’m not into doing people’s natural hair because I have more fun experimenting with new things on hair that I can replace, if that makes sense. I can do the hell out of some cornrows though. Right now, I’m focused on turning my talent into a bigger brand, eventually leading up to having my own wig business, selling custom wigs and being known all over for what I do. I’ve been working real hard to make this happen and I can’t wait for the world to finally see.

@nigel199x

We Asked the Co-founder of the Highly-Popular Restaurant, Sei Less, What Sets it Apart

by Kirby Carroll

Finally, a restaurant to upgrade your social profile and your palate.

NYC is one of my favorite places in the world. The culture, shopping, and art are all uniquely intoxicating. But there’s another element that deserves just as much praise, and that’s the food. No matter what you’re craving, there’s probably a mom-and-pop spot with the authentic dish you’re searching for. And if you’re looking for somewhere to upgrade your Instagram profile, there’s endless elaborate restaurants so scenic, you may spend more time snapping pictures of your food than actually eating it. But even in the city that never sleeps, it’s hard to find a restaurant with both elements. However, according to the internet, that place has been found, and it’s called Sei Less.

Sei Less is an Asian-fusion speakeasy located in the Midtown Manhattan area. Although the restaurant is generally new, it’s already had a great deal of success and boasts a long list of celebrity clients and athletes. From 50 Cent heading there right after his former Super Bowl performance to being the inspiration and video location for Fabolous’ and French Montana’s Say Less, the chic eatery has been a trending topic. Bleu spoke with the restaurant’s co-owner, Dara Mirjahangiry, to learn more about their story and future plans.

“You have to have the passion and work ethic to thrive, but also understand the economics of how to run a business. Also, knowing how to utilize PR and marketing helps. You can never get complacent and must keep reinventing the brand,” says Mirjahangiry.

The co-owner knows these components all too well as he has a background in finance, but like many lost his job during the financial crisis before returning to the hospitality world, which he credits to teaching him a great deal.

“It taught me about the importance of understanding your clients. Every table has a different experience at the restaurant; you need to understand the palate of each client. On a personal level, it gives you skills like time management, how to read people, people skills, and more. I think everyone should work in the business at some point in their lives,” Mirjahangiry says.

Today he carries over a decade of hospitality experience and a plethora of A-list clients. Still many would say it was a big risk to open a restaurant when he did, right after the pandemic.

“Everytime you open a business, you want it to thrive and do well out of the gate. But first and foremost, you have to have great food - my focus was working with the chef and creating the right menu for our clientele and crowd. As far as the PR, the pandemic helped us because there was a lot of pent

up demand. We were one of the first to open, and the venue, food, and vibe was captivating,” Mirjahangiry says.

However, while it may have a lot of demand, it’s not always the easiest spot to get into.

“We try to keep a pretty strict door so that it’s a place that people want to get into. People always say they want ‘an atmosphere that’s welcoming yet elevated’ - we’re not a member’s club but it is like a kind of IYKYK. Certain days and times it’s not easy to get an RSVP,” Mirjahangiry says.

According to Mirjahangiry, this is only a portion of the Sei Less experience, because while it’s elevated, it’s very communal.

“We created a menu that is catered towards what each person wants, it’s “family style” – not stuffy, everyone shares everything. Sei Less gives people the chance to really enjoy each other.”

He goes on to explain that three elements make a great restaurant: great food, a great environment and great people (customers and staff). Mirjahangiry credits his amazing team for helping to set the restaurant apart.

“We have a tremendous staff, many of them I’ve worked with for years, and they understand the clients, brand, and menu. That catapults us and gives clients an amazing experience,” Mirjahangiry says.

Moving into the future, Sei Less is expanding into selling merchandise and creating popup experiences in other cities. Also, there are places that are top of mind for expansion like Miami, LA, Vegas, Houston, Atlanta and Dallas. However, he made clear that NYC will remain a focus.

“Sometimes brands try to expand too quickly and they sacrifice their flagship, and we can’t do that. We want to keep NYC high caliber,” Mirjahangiry says.

To learn more about Sei Less or make a reservation visit their website at: https://www.seiless.com/.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including: Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney

Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any

www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, and KEEP ASPIRING are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2022 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved.

WHITE MOUNTAINEERING

SPRING - SUMMER 2024

KIDLL

SPRING - SUMMER 2024

HENRIK VIBSKOV

SPRING - SUMMER 2024

TAAKK

SPRING - SUMMER 2024

SUIZA UNVEILS

CARMEN AND HISPANO

Electric sportscar’s limited release blends past and future. By Eric Charles Munson

HISPANO SUIZA is an automaker based in Barcelona. It remained a relatively unknown Spanish automaker until it unveiled its fully electric sports car, the Carmen, in 2022.

The Carmen is named after the current president’s late mother, Carmen, who was a well-known socialite. She was “practically royalty” and hung around the likes of Princess Diana and Pablo Picasso.

There are two models of the Carmen including the standard and the Carmen Boulogne. The standard Carmen has 1,005 horsepower while the Boulogne has 1,100 horsepower.

It may seem a bit odd for a Spanish company to append a French name to one of its vehicles, but the company has a valid reason.

“The French city of Boulogne-sur-Mer has been intrinsically linked with the Hispano Suiza brand since the turn of the last century when the brand’s official team decided to participate in the Coupe des Voiturettes,” the company said in a statement. “In 1910, Italian driver Paolo Zuccarelli won the cup driving one of the official Hispano Suiza team’s cars.”

The Carmen has a striking design compared to other supercars on the market. The Carmen isn’t meant to be a throwback per se, but its design is inspired by earlier Hispano Suiza models such as the H6C Dubonnet Xenia from the 1930s. The design is more futuristic and athletic, but still reminiscent of the older style.

The models have around 2,000 different personalization combinations between

CARMEN BOULOGNE

a top speed of 180 mph.

Hispano Suiza wanted the Carmen to be fully electric, but refused to settle for anything less than the best. The automaker teamed up with QEV Technologies, a company based in Barcelona that is best-known for producing electric racing vehicles for the likes of the World Rally Championship and Formula E.

them. It comes in numerous bright, lively colors such as pink, green and yellow.

It produces around 40 kWh and 700 volts of power sent directly to the rear wheels. The cars are incredibly lightweight, weighing around 3,600 pounds. This allows them to accelerate from zero to 60 in 2.6 seconds and reach

Unusually, both the Carmen and Carmen Boulogne will have a limited rollout. Only 24 vehicles will be manufactured, of which 19 will be standard Carmens and five will be Boulognes. The standard will start around $1.93 million and the Boulogne will start at over $2 million.

As a highly rare model from a previously unknown company, the Carmen and Carmen Boulogne are likely to become some of the most sought-after cars on the market. Think of it as a very expensive collector’s item.

“HISPANO SUIZA WANTED THE CARMEN TO BE FULLY ELECTRIC, BUT REFUSED TO SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN THE BEST.”

CREED III’S CELEBRITY FITNESS TRAINER CONTINUES HIS JOURNEY TO SUCCESS

By Nicholas Hernandez

In 2003, life for New Orleans native Corey Calliet revolved around typical activities: sports, hanging out with friends and family and attending college classes. On top of all of this, working out soon became a priority for the then-Southeastern Louisiana University student.

From sports to the marching band, Calliet, growing up, approached life ready to engage in any activity possible. Eventually, motivated by his college athlete friends, Calliet’s daily routine morphed into a heavy focus on various rigorous workouts. Calliet says working out evolved into an everyday occurrence with one goal - to look good.

But his life soon altered with the birth of his daughter.

Calliet, dedicated to providing for his child, decided to pause his education and find a job as a postal service worker. And for the next six years, he financially supported his daughter through his career. As he navigated his early 20s, another passion continued to persist in his life - health and wellness. However, he noted that he struggled with finding a correct and adequate regimen.

“I did not know how to diet,” Calliet recalls. “I did not know how to train, so I would try anything I knew, just trying all kinds of different things until I finally got a trainer myself.”

He calls back on adapting to a new mentality throughout his transformative journey. He says the mental aspect of instilling trust in someone to transform his life, despite believing he could solely complete the change, led him to have the body he desired.

“I had to reach out and get help,” he says. “What I was trying to do in six years, I did in eight weeks and transformed my body.”

After undergoing a complete evolution, Calliet left his government job as a postal worker in 2010 and pursued a career as a personal trainer. He says a vital part of success is constant learning. And after training locally for three years in Baton Rouge, Calliet received his big break - working as a celebrity trainer on the 2015 Fantastic Four film.

It was there he met Hollywood superstar Michael B. Jordan. After that interaction, Calliet’s career would reach new heights. He decided to leave his Louisiana home and travel nearly 1800 miles to Los Angeles in 2014. Through various gigs including E!’s reality show, Revenge Body by Khloe Kardashian, his cutting-edge training style grew in popularity.

“The Calliet Way’’ pulls from athletic strength and conditioning techniques and professional bodybuilding fundamentals. His abilities helped secure his place in the entertainment industry, landing a spot as a trainer for the hit boxing film - Creed III.

“People trust me. People respect me, and I can go in any room and train anybody,” he says.

Sip and Savor in Paso Robles: One of California’s Fastest Growing Wine Regions

By Becca Blond

With prices and crowds in Napa and Sonoma out of control these days, Paso Robles is the California wine country destination you need to visit. Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, it is known for pushing the boundaries in wine creation and always serving up something new and innovative. It also boasts a more affordable sip and savor experience, where you can taste great wine and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants for about half the price of Napa.

With Highway 1 on one side and the 101 on the other, Paso Robles is an unpretentious small town made up of cowboys, surfers, innovators, and winemakers. It also offers easy beach access and the opportunity to visit more than 300 wineries. I recently spent three nights in Paso Robles. Here are my picks for how to experience it yourself.

TASTE WINE

DAOU was hands-down my favorite wine tasting experience in Paso Robles. The

winery has a large tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating. I recommend booking outdoors. Set atop a mountain, the views are as impressive as the varieties.

Owned by two brothers who immigrated from Lebanon in the 1980s, DAOU is known for its big reds. The vineyard was one of the first to introduce Cabernet clones to Paso Robles and today is famous for its world class Cabernet Sauvignons. The Soul of a Lion is their signature bottle and included in the house wine tasting flight. Curated wine and culinary pairings are what to try here, and the Middle Eastern inspired dishes are delicious.

Another top tasting experience in the Paso area is at Tablas Creek Vineyard. It was the first winery in the world to earn the coveted international Regenerative Organic certification. It was also the first to introduce Rhone grapes to Paso.

Founded by the esteemed Chateau Beaucastel family in France’s Châteauneuf du Pape, Tablas offers mixed, red and white tastings. These are served in two flights of three, each including their flagship Esprit de Tablas. Tastings are just $25 per person and the fee is waived with a two-bottle purchase.

Copia Vineyards & Winery is set on 26 acres of gorgeous landscape and specializes in Rhone and Bordeaux varietals that have dense, opulent flavors. Also pay a visit to Kukkula Winery. An organic dry farm vineyard, the wines are intensely aromatic with rich color and flavor.

For something slightly different head to Kiler Ridge for olive oil tasting. The family owned and operated far produces superior California extra virgin olive oil and offers tastings. I loved how fresh the different varieties taste and how each had a unique flavor.

Michelin Starred Dining

For such a small town, Paso has quite the dining scene. It has two Michelin star restaurants along with three others recommended by Michelin in its most recent guide.

Six Test Kitchen is the town’s most decorated restaurant, earning Michelin stars two years in a row. Open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday, the tiny restaurant serves a beautifully curated, multi-course menu with one nightly seating.

Dishes are assembled on a pristine stainlesssteel counter, and each comes out looking like a work of art. Six Test Kitchen is in Paso’s Tin City neighborhood. Even if you don’t dine at Test Kitchen, it’s worth visiting Tin City just to stroll. Featuring modern industrial-style buildings, it’s entirely walkable and home to more than 20 small-production wineries, distilleries and breweries.

The Restaurant at Justin Winery is Paso’s latest Michelin starred affair. The dishes here are created from fresh, seasonal ingredients

grown on the 26-acre farmstead where it’s located. Pair your multi-course tasting menu with their wines.

In Bloom, which earned a Michelin-mention recently, was one of my favorite dining experiences in Pasos. The cuisine is modern Californian, and you can choose from a sixcourse tasting menu or order a la carte. The food comes out beautifully plated and the ambiance is equally appealing.

The focus at The Hatch is on poultry with fried, rotisserie and roasted chicken all on the menu. For fried chicken you’ll want to visit on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday when they fry until it’s sold out. Besides chicken, The Hatch serves American comfort fare including shared plates like hot skillet cornbread and pimento cheese dip with pickles and grilled toast.

If you are craving Italian, check out Il Cortile. It serves a seasonal, rustic Italian fine-dining menu with locally sourced ingredients. The homemade pastas are divine. They also do excellent fresh seafood.

And then there is breakfast. For this meal, I loved the classic American diner and comfort fare at Vic’s Café. Prices were fair and the eggs were cooked just right. The sausage gravy on hashbrowns was another menu modification I enjoyed.

After Dark

The trippiest sunset experience is Light at Sensorio. The work of internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, it features two light installations. Field of Light is a multi-acre walkthrough experience and Munro’s largest artwork in the world. It has more than 100,000 stemmed spheres lit by fiber optics that illuminate the landscape in subtle blooms of changing colors, making the rolling hill landscape appear as a psychedelic field of undulating flowers.

The second installation is the Light Towers that celebrates Paso’s wine country with 69 towers made from more than 17,000 wine bottles illuminated with glowing optic fibers. The colors also change and are paired to music.

Most people arrive just before sunset to catch the fire show with a few drinks from the onsite bar and snacks like a cheese and charcuterie board. After the last bits of light fade to darkness, it is time to stroll through the light fields.

Where to Stay

The Piccolo is a great sleeping option. The boutique hotel has just 24 rooms and suites and is in the heart of downtown. Rooms are spacious and very comfy – I loved the mattresses and pillows. All have thoughtful modern design that also incorporates the region’s wine country heritage.

Head up to the rooftop bar for a craft cocktail or a glass of vino after a day out exploring. The Piccolo is also dog-friendly.

How to Get to Paso Robles

You can fly into San Luis Obispo on several airlines, including United, American and Alaska. There are direct flights from Denver, Phoenix, Portland, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. The airport is about 30 minutes from Paso Robles. Amtrak also stops in Paso Robles on its Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight routes.

MIAMI BRICKELL

WHY THIS MIAMI DESTINATION IS PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVELERS (Who Don’t Like to Party)

By Anna Kim

MIAMI’S financial district, Brickell, known as “Wall Street South,” is also one of the country’s great shopping and foodie destinations, known for its upscale high-rise buildings, and a trend-setting neighborhood with an equally sophisticated social scene.

Brickell is located just south of bustling Downtown Miami. It’s connected to the downtown area by the Brickell Avenue Bridge, which spans over the Miami River.

As a thriving community of millennials and young professionals, Brickell has witnessed a boom in business opportunities, upscale condominiums, new restaurants, trendy bars, and luxurious hotels. In 2022, Miami welcomed

26.5 million visitors. Brickell City Centre has quickly become a Mecca for day-trippers who value shopping and dining experiences over nightlife and clubbing.

For those of us whose hardpartying days are in the past, Miami might be an unlikely destination for a relaxing getaway. But solo travelers looking for a more laid-back and “chill” type of fun will find Brickell City’s urbane vibe to be a revelation. One of the safest neighborhoods in Miami, the newly reimagined district has earned a reputation for relaxed sophistication that hits just the right note for a growing number of visitors who prefer to escape the party scene yet still want to enjoy new experiences.

WHAT TO DO

Not only can you feel safe while traveling through Brickell was recently voted the best place to live in Miami and on any given day the neighborhood sports dozens of activities to keep you entertained for every type of solo traveler.

Brickell City Centre is a 500,000-square-foot vertical with three levels of luxury shopping, dining and entertainment. You’ll find international brands including Reiss and Zara, dependable standbys like Sunglass Hut, and high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue. For a change of pace, play a round of neon-lit indoor mini golf at Puttshack, take in a movie at CMX Cinemas for a VIP experience, or relax with some alcohol-infused treats from Sugarfina. Along the way, you’ll be sure to meet plenty of like-minded friendly locals and fellow travelers.

However you choose to spend your time in Brickell, you’ll enjoy plenty of walking — and you’ll be glad to work up an appetite. Brickell is home to an impressive variety of cuisines, with many restaurants serving authentic Cuban, Japanese and Thai dishes. Marabu specializes in refined Cuban delicacies like flank steak, sweet plantains, empanadas, and extraordinary mojitos. If you’re in the mood for imaginative high-end sushi, head to Pubbelly. EST. 33 offers fascinating interpretations of Thai cuisine and a generous slate of craft beers. For heartier fare, try the Japanese BBQ at Gyu-Kaku

WHAT TO SEE

Brickell is the most walkable neighborhood in a city that’s exceptionally friendly for pedestrians. And its connections to Miami’s mass transit system mean that you won’t need a rental car either. Residents and visitors alike can ride the Metromover, the free mass transit line serving Downtown Miami, Park West, Brickell, and the Arts and Entertainment District.

For a change of pace from shopping and dining, at Brickell City Centre, consider hopping on the Metromover and exploring the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: a science center, aquarium, and planetarium all in one gorgeous facility. Next door, you’ll find the Pérez Art Museum Miami. The Institute of Contemporary Art lies just about a mile north, in Miami’s Design District.

WHERE TO STAY

EAST Miami is Swire Hotels’ first North American property. It conveniently connects to Brickell City Centre. The fourstar hotel lies just a 15-minute Uber ride from Miami International Airport and just 15 minutes from South Beach. EAST Miami offers a variety of unique, contemporary residence suites, all with awe-inspiring views of the Miami skyline. Well known for its tight security, the hotel limits guest access to specific floors, providing a safer, more enjoyable stay.

Environmentally conscious travelers will be happy to know that EAST Miami is LEED Gold certified and has received numerous accolades for its commitment to sustainability. Its hallmark eco-friendly feature, the Climate Ribbon™ elevated trellis, optimizes air flow, temperature regulation, natural light utilization, and rainwater collection, greatly reducing the hotel’s use of energy and natural resources. These eco-friendly attributes are echoed on the ceilings of the Brickell City Centre Mall.

With its prime Brickell location and remarkable views of the city and Biscayne Bay, Hotel AKA Brickell is another excellent choice for solo travelers. Located near Point View, just two blocks from the waterfront, Hotel AKA provides easy access to popular attractions like the Bayfront Park and the Kaseya Center arena, home of the Miami Heat and host to Miami’s biggest events. If you want to get a tan, head to the rooftop pool, order a light snack at the Sky Bar + Grill, and you can find the expansive Sky Lawn event space where live music and events are frequently held.

If you thought that Miami only comes alive after dark, think again. Brickell is the perfect neighborhood to visit if you want to get away from the party scene yet still participate in new and exciting experiences that Miami has to offer.

Black designers offer their own unique design advice.

By Eric Charles Munson

APHROCHIC BY JEANINE HAYS AND BRYAN MASON

Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason take readers on an adventure exploring the history and culture of Black homeownership. The book features notable people such as Alexander Smalls and Danielle Brooks, who both have their own distinct home design style. The featured styles include the Harlem Renaissance, Haiti, South Carolina and Washington, DC. Hays and Mason not only showcase the striking diversity of interior design, but also focus on the obstacles Black homeowners have faced for generations.

THE NEW BOHEMIANS BY JUSTINA BLAKENEY

According to Blakeney, the so-called New Bohemians “embrace a freespirited, no-rules lifestyles and apply that attitude to all areas of their lives, including their homes.” They include people from all walks of life including bloggers, entrepreneurs, artists, chefs and urban farmers. Blakeney explores 20 such “New Bohemian” homes located on the East and West Coasts of the United States. There are also 12 “DIY projects” inspired by the homes featured in the book and a “Plant-O-Pedia” to achieve the “right amount of greenery”.

FURNISHING FORWARD BY

SHEILA BRIDGES

Sheila Bridges presents a more traditional self-help approach to teaching about interior design. In Furnishing Forward, Bridges helps homeowners find sustainable and longlasting furniture and household items, while also focusing on personal taste and budgeting. Home design should be tailor-made without breaking the bank. Bridges also provides her own personal anecdotes and experiences about interior design. There is also advice about shopping and working with design professionals.

WILD INTERIORS BY HILTON CARTER

Hilton Carter is a best-selling author who brings his love of plants and unique eye to interior design. Carter discusses his own plant journey and further elaborates on his inspirations and on those of other so-called “plant parents.” The book spans numerous locations ranging from a small home in Venice, California to apartments and houses in New York City, Berlin and Barcelona. In addition to plant care advice, Carter shows what kinds of plants are suitable for each room of a house, regardless of size.

Want to stay undetectable*

fewer medicines?

DOVATO is different: unlike other HIV treatments that contain 3 or 4 medicines, DOVATO contains just 2 medicines in 1 pill.

DOVATO is a complete prescription regimen for adults new to HIV-1 treatment or replacing their current HIV-1 regimen when their doctor determines they meet certain requirements.

Learn more at DOVATO.com

Important Facts About DOVATO

This is only a brief summary of important information about DOVATO and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO?

If you have both human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including:

• Resistant HBV. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV infection before you start treatment with DOVATO. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the HBV can change (mutate) during your treatment with DOVATO and become harder to treat (resistant). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in people who have HIV-1 and HBV infection.

• Worsening of HBV infection. If you have HBV infection and take DOVATO, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking DOVATO. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

° Do not run out of DOVATO. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your DOVATO is all gone.

Results may vary.

° Do not stop DOVATO without first talking to your healthcare provider.

° If you stop taking DOVATO, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver function and monitor your HBV infection. It may be necessary to give you a medicine to treat hepatitis B. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking DOVATO.

For more information about side effects, see “What are possible side effects of DOVATO?”

What is DOVATO?

DOVATO is a prescription medicine that is used without other HIV-1 medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults: who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past, or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their healthcare provider determines that they meet certain requirements. HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in children.

Please see additional Important Facts About DOVATO on the following page.

Ask your doctor about staying undetectable with fewer medicines in 1 pill.

No other complete HIV pill uses fewer medicines to help keep you undetectable.

with

Important Facts About DOVATO (cont’d)

Who should not take DOVATO?

Do not take DOVATO if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine that contains dolutegravir or lamivudine.

• take dofetilide. Taking DOVATO and dofetilide can cause side effects that may be serious or life-threatening.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DOVATO?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection.

• have kidney problems.

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. One of the medicines in DOVATO (dolutegravir) may harm your unborn baby.

° Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different medicine than DOVATO if you are planning to become pregnant or if pregnancy is confirmed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

° If you can become pregnant, your healthcare provider may perform a pregnancy test before you start treatment with DOVATO.

° If you can become pregnant, you and your healthcare provider should talk about the use of effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with DOVATO.

° Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are planning to become pregnant, you become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant during treatment with DOVATO.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take DOVATO.

° You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

° DOVATO passes to your baby in your breast milk.

° Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines interact with DOVATO. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

• You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with DOVATO.

• Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take DOVATO with other medicines.

What are possible side effects of DOVATO?

DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including:

• See “What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO?”

What are possible side effects of DOVATO? (cont’d)

• Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with DOVATO. Stop taking DOVATO and get medical help right away if you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters or peeling of the skin; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; problems breathing.

• Liver problems.People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with DOVATO. Liver problems, including liver failure, have also happened in people without a history of liver disease or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your liver. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice); dark or “tea-colored” urine; light-colored stools (bowel movements); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and/or pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Too much lactic acid is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis: feel very weak or tired; unusual (not normal) muscle pain; trouble breathing; stomach pain with nausea and vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms and legs; feel dizzy or lightheaded; and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Lactic acidosis can also lead to severe liver problems, which can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the signs or symptoms of liver problems which are listed above under “Liver problems.”

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female or very overweight (obese).

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking DOVATO.

• The most common side effects of DOVATO include: headache; nausea; diarrhea; trouble sleeping; tiredness; and anxiety.

These are not all the possible side effects of DOVATO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where can I find more information?

• Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

• Go to DOVATO.com or call 1-877-844-8872, where you can also get FDA-approved labeling.

Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

October 2022 DVT:7PIL

©2022 ViiV Healthcare or licensor.

DLLADVT220016 November 2022

Produced in USA.

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Feature Kenya Vaun

Fashion L.A.X

Feature Tony Evans Jr.

Feature Alfred Rutherford

Feature Kris Davis

Humans RE Agents

Feature Thomas Boyce

Feature Pheelz

Op-Ed Handshaking

Feature Papoose

Spotlight The Shammgods

Icon Harry Belafonte

Bleulist 2023 NBA Draft

Stockist

Kenya Vaun: A RISING STAR

The 21-year-old R&B singer’s distinctively raspy vocals and emotionally charged lyrics create a safe space reminiscent of R&B greats from the past.

By: JustinWallace

Kenya Vaun is a 21-year-old musician from Philadelphia whose music has an old soul feel that exudes authenticity. In 2018, she released her first single, “Movie Night,” which was followed by “Bout Me” and caught the attention of 300 Entertainment, leading to her signing her first record deal in 2022. Now, with her new single “Overrated,” Vaun is set to continue redefining herself and expanding her artistry while staying true to herself and reaching more people.

Vaun’s music has a timeless quality that is sure to endure. Her authenticity and connection to the great R&B artists of the past are evident in her work, with her vocals and lyrics creating a unique safe space for listeners. After gaining the attention of 300 Entertainment with her second release, Vaun has now signed her first record deal and is working on new music. As she evolves as an artist, her goal is to reach more people while remaining true to herself and continuing to expand her artistry. Her latest single, “Overrated,” is just one piece of her ongoing musical journey.

Bleu: I know you’re from Philadelphia. Tell us about growing up in the city of brotherly love.

Vaun: It wasn’t that bad. I was there for a few years till my mom moved us to a small town called Norristown, about 2030 minutes out of Philly.

Bleu: Where did you get your taste of music from?

Vaun: I got my music taste from my mom. Her favorite artist is Mary J. Blige. She also listened to other R&B greats such as Lauryn Hill, Angie Stone, and more. But India Arie was a person I listened to a lot. The messages behind her songs always spoke light to me.

Bleu: Would you rather listen to 90s R&B or 2000s R&B?

Vaun: Honestly, the 90s. Though I wasn’t born in the 90s, the era of music in the 90s hits differently, from the sounds to the authenticity.

Bleu: When making music, what’s your creative process?

Vaun: My process starts with me writing my music. I always say, ‘If the beat doesn’t fit, then you know the song can’t be completed.’ Once the beat is locked in, I can start working on melodies, flows, etc.

Bleu: Today, your newly released single ‘Summer’ is out now. The song sums up summer in New York. From your perspective, let us know what you like about being in New York during the summer.

Vaun: Summertime in New York is different. Living here, I’ve had the

opportunity to meet many people and go to multiple venues. New York is a city that never sleeps. Being here, it is easier to get around. Everything is open for the most part over here. Living in Philly, places are closed by midnight.

Bleu: Are you still in school at the moment? If you are, how do you make time for music and school?

Vaun: I paused school recently. But I still communicate with all my professors to see what my schedule will look like next semester. I want to get some stuff in order before going back. At this moment, I’m 100% focused on music. It is better when

you’re able to focus on one thing.

Bleu: Being 21, do you feel much pressure on yourself?

Vaun: Not necessarily. My time will always come. In the meantime, work hard, make strategic moves, and always be consistent.

Bleu: What can fans expect from your upcoming EP?

Vaun: I will keep an eye on downtown for now. *laughs* The EP will give you different elements of my artistry.

DRESS: CAROLINA HERRERA

SUNGLASSES LELE SADOUGHI GLOVES ZEBRA PRINT OPERA GLOVES-VINTAGE

Photo: Andrew Zaeh

Stylist: Joiee Thorpe

Hair: Sharif Poston

MUA: Armando Kole

A CLASS ACT

From the first sibling to graduate college to being the first one cast in the series Harlem, the actress and creative speaks on manifestation, creating her own lane and how their career is just getting started.

By Chris Law

SUIT & BRALETTE

SERGIO HUDSON AT SHOPBOP

PANT, DOUBLE BREASTED BLAZER

BRALETTE

JEWELRY: LARUICCI

“SO I CAN STILL EAT A LITTLE BIT,” JERRIE JOHNSON ASKS INNOCENTLY.

OUR INTERVIEW has just begun, and I’m alerting them to the fact that I’m recording our Zoom call, but only for transcribing purposes. Though to be honest, I wish you all could see the video and what I was able to witness.

Johnson is stunning. She's wearing makeup, but it enhances, not erases her natural beauty. Her signature short blonde haircut pops against a wall of art, thriving plants and houndstooth chair. In short, she’s embodying the phrase “I’m ready for my close up.” And we all can’t wait to watch.

Johnson’s been “centering themselves and blossoming creatively” after a much-needed vacation in Jamaica for Carnival. There she spent time with a who's who of Black Hollywood and if her Instagram feed is any indication, big fun was had indeed.

“After press and award season, it was giving like ok, you need a break. As soon as I got to New York, I got this new creative energy. Things I want to write, things I want to create, just getting them down on paper,” Johnson explains.

As a Philadelphia native, Johnson’s love of the arts started in middle school.

“I was a very outgoing child, I would do all the talent shows and assemblies. I also was a mentally gifted student, but my mom never signed the papers for me to get skipped—so I would just be in the back of class, reading books, writing poetry and writing book –reports because they [her teachers] didn’t know what to do with me,” Johnson says. It was a particular assembly where a lastminute switch from singing to reciting a monologue from For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When The Rainbow Is Enuf by Ntozake Shange.

“I did The Lady In Brown. I remember reading the book and how transformative it was. I had never read my experience — the experience of my family members — articulated the way Ntozake articulated it in For Colored Girls. I was moved by this,” Johnson says.

Inspired by this performance and encouragement from her school and her family (mainly an aunt who also was an actress), Johnson auditioned for the High School for Creatives and Performing Arts and of course she got in.

“It just changed me,” Johnson declares. It was the birth of my art activism. It was the

birth of Jerrie the actress and performer. It was the birth of Jerrie the host. I was able to transmute the energy of my poetry, I was writing a lot. It was such a creative center and it truly saved my life. I think if I went to a different high school in Philly, I would have been a different person. I would have had to guard myself in a way I had to at this school.” Like most creatives, Johnson dreamed of moving to Los Angeles to become an actress, but at the urging of her drama teacher she went to college at Penn State University instead. Where in most households, college is a concerted effort, Jerrie admits it's something she did without much help.

FEATHER ROBE-VINTAGE EARRINGS LELE SADOUGHI GLOVES-STYLIST OWN STASSI REID MULE

DRESS BRONX AND BANCO THE AISHA GOWN SHOES FEMME LA RING LARUICCI

“I WAS A VERY OUTGOING CHILD, I WOULD DO ALL THE TALENT SHOWS AND ASSEMBLIES.“

“My mom doesn't know anything about school. My four eldest siblings didn’t go to school[college] and half of them didn’t even finish high school. I’m doing something really new, even graduating from high school was really new,” Johnson explains.

At Penn State, Jerrie studied Theater and African American Women’s Studies with a minor in Arts Entrepreneurship.

“I was everywhere, I was doing all the things. When I think back to my time in college, I don’t know how I had time to do half the shit I did,” Johnson exclaims.

It could be said that her ability to be creative and multitask was honed here, but perhaps her full on chops were developed in grad school where she performed at American Conservatory Theatre which serves such alumni as Denzel Washington and Anika Noni Rose.

“I remember standing on the roof after my audition looking at The Bay, and I’m like I’m going to go to school here. I ended up getting in and going to school here. After that, I said, I’m finally going to move to LA and become a star. And I did… in six months after that declaration,” Johnson says with a smile.

Her journey to stardom has been a wild one, and it’s just getting started. Let’s see how Jerrie Johnson's career as a multi hyphenate creative has come from her humble beginnings.

Bleu: What’s the best thing that’s happened since you booked Harlem?

Johnson: The best thing that has happened is the family that I gained — which didn’t go without intention. Like when I manifested this show, I specifically talked about the goodness of the people I wanted to work with. I was intentional about attracting and manifesting people who are in alignment [with her values]. I developed sisters but deep mentorship. For this to be the first big thing I’m doing in the industry and for me to be ushered in by these angels, it feels like Oh yeah, you’re good, this is right where you are supposed to be. I know that no matter what project I do next, I have a built-in community of what I want to achieve and beyond and who I hope to create bigger things in the future.

ROBE DRESS SID NEIGUMPLATFORM PANT BOOT AZALEA WANG

Bleu: What’s been the most challenging?

Johnson: Being a first generation person coming into money and not having people have real technical conversations with you. People are always like “Save your money”. But save my money? I don’t have experience saving money. Money was always complicated growing up. My mom was a drug dealer, okay? She also worked at a bar and was a bouncer and bartender. People in my family have done some questionable things for money.

I wished there were like these old Black actresses that were like (does impersonation) “We heard that you booked a series regular… come meet us at this address” and they would tell me do this, do this, don’t do this. The first year of my success was a struggle. There was the pandemic, my first experience with taxes, and it’s like damn. But then I’m traveling all over the country with Amazon, I have a styling budget—and people are making assumptions about what my finances are and how I’m doing. I want to ask for help when people assume you’re doing well. I’m trying to do something I’ve never seen anybody do. It’s difficult for me to be in a nice ass hotel in LA and people are asking me to come out, and I can’t afford an Uber to go see them.

I now have a business manager and I still have anxiety about things, but [having a business manager] allows me to have a little distance.

Bleu: What’s the most important thing you want to accomplish as an actress?

Johnson: I want my people to have creative equity in our own creative space. A dream of mine is to buy a farm and have an artist commune on the farm where people can come and create art sans the commercialism. To create a safe space which encourages autonomy in people where you can do weird shit, you can throw some paint at the wall and watch it stick or not. I think Black people need the space to create without always having to feel like it has to be perfect or sellable. On a bigger scale, I want to be known for artistic healing— as a joy specialist. Sometimes it comes through the work that I do. I can heal people because I have this platform, based on the characters I play or the conversations they are having.

Bleu: As an actress who has some similarities to your character, how do you bring truth to her world and

that character without typecasting yourself or bringing that with you post filming?

Johnson: When I’m playing Tye, I do feel myself being more like her than Jerrie.I’m a bit harder. When I was in grad school, we would do this exercise where we would metaphorically unzip from the character and come out of the character at the end of the day, so we aren’t taking them home. The week or so after filming is really precious for me, that I have to go away somewhere, regroup and recenter. Tye is a little bit more masculine presenting than I am —although I do have an equally lit masculine and feminine energy. For Tye, I did have some internal struggle at first

moon. I would find different ways to get creative with being broke and wanting to be fashionable. I would buy these $5 dresses from H&M in every color, and then I would thrift bomb-ass blazers and jackets and put them together. After high school, I was living with my aunt and for whatever reason she wouldn’t let me get my clothes to go to college. I went to college with a pair of jeans, a pair of shorts and two shirts. I was devastated, but it allowed me to not be attached to material things. I like things with sentimental value. I sew, so I like to edit things and create new looks. Now I get to collaborate with somebody else and play dress up. It’s really about how I feel, and I never want to be in uncomfortable pieces.

because I didn’t want her to be girly as well. That’s a thing we do in the Queer community, especially like Lesbian women, you want to go so far to the other side, but it robs you off that balance. I wanted Tye to have some softness, some fluidity, some androgyny. She loves being a woman—but she’s gained this masculine energy through her work. For me, I don’t always identify with being a woman, but Tye would probably be like… What the fuck is a pronoun… I’m she/her. I’m not going to police myself, and that’s how I stay away from stereotypes. If I bring my authenticity to it, I bring my ancestors and my hood niggas to it, then it’s always going to be authentic, it’s always going to be real and never a recreation of something harmful.

Bleu: Fashion is a big part of Tye’s character and clearly yours. What’s your relationship with fashion?

Johnson: Let me tell you, when I was in high school, I couldn't really afford the styles I wanted. I have an eye for aesthetics, and I’m really particular about it, and that’s my Virgo

Bleu: You talk about manifesting often? What have you been manifesting lately in your life?

Johnson: I'm manifesting a movie. I’m manifesting an unscripted series. What I’m learning is people think I’m not available during my hiatus. But I like working and want to continue to expand the work that I’ve done. After I booked Harlem, it was a bit jarring to my agency at the time (which is why I’m no longer with them), I was like ok now we can find my movie, and they were hesitating. Sometimes the feedback is like You’re young, you’re a series regular, just be happy with that. I’m like, but you wouldn’t tell Kaley Cuocoo that. So yeah I want to be on film, I want to reprise my solo show, and I’m in a creative space. At the larger level, I’m manifesting ownership. I wanna be on my farm and drive a van across the country, but I don’t have my license!

Bleu: That’s next!

Johnson: That’s actually the first manifestation.

“I WANT MY PEOPLE TO HAVE CREATIVE EQUITY IN OUR OWN CREATIVE SPACE. A DREAM OF MINE IS TO BUY A FARM AND HAVE AN ARTIST COMMUNE ON THE FARM WHERE PEOPLE CAN COME AND CREATE ART SANS THE COMMERCIALISM.“

L.A.X Live and Excel

Photographer: Ian Lim

Stylist: Festus Duntoye

Arriving at the shoot for L.A.X

By Elisha Ricketts

Arriving at the shoot for L.A.X (Born Damilola Afolabi), I’m met with very calm and humbling energy from the artist, all whilst oozing a quintessential coolness at the same time. Whilst his dancefloor-ready serenades play in the background, the Nigerian-born artist is styled for each of his looks.

Living up to the abbreviation of his name ‘Live and Excel’, L.A.X’s music career has grown from strength to strength since its conception back in high school in Lagos, where he was formerly part of a trio called ‘Flyboiz’. He released his first major single in 2012 titled ‘Jaye’, fast forward to 2013 he was signed to Wizkid’s ‘StarBoy’ label where he collaborated with Wiz on tracks such as ‘Caro’ and ‘Ginger’. He then went on to win the Diaspora Artiste of the Year at the 2014 Nigerian Entertainment Awards. In 2016 L.A.X formed his own platform ‘Rasaki Group’ paving the way forward for up-and-coming musicians and creatives.

Famed for his popular high-energy tracks including ‘Go Low’, ‘Sempe’, and ‘Pepe’. L.A.X’s unique sound fuses together Afrobeats, Afropop, Amapiano, and traditional Fuji music and is popping off dancefloors internationally. L.A.X has collaborated with many artists including Davido, Simi, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade and more. His latest twelvetrack album ‘No Bad Vibes’ released last month via ‘Rasaki Group’ in partnership with Empire is pure high-energy Afro excellence. Written during his previous tour, L.A.X was inspired to write music based on the person that he has become today, incorporating multiple cultures, he handpicked the musicians that feature on his latest project to reflect this ideology and collaborations include Black Sherif, Ayra Starr, Konshens, Loui and Ronnie Flex.

What inspires your style?

Fashion is a representation of feelings. If I’m feeling excited or more reserved that will come through in my style, I dress accordingly. I like to look nice, the looks today are vibey just like the album.

What are the main inspirations behind your music?

I want people to listen to my music and find a sense of escapism. If they are in a bad mood I hope that my music can change that and bring about good energy. I want my music to be a medicine for heartbreak and a stress reliever. Even down to the instruments, I make sure that guitars are very vibey, I like to have a sexy sound, and drums that make you want to dance.

Who and what are your inspirations in life?

Family, friends, and location. If I’m in London I’m very chilled and calm, I like spending time in London. I find the US very cool and chilled too, my dad owns a house in Houston so I’ve spent a lot of time there, LA is cool too. If I’m in Europe I need to have a lot of energy as I have a lot of shows, so I’m energized. If I’m in Lagos it’s work, work and stress.

@_SHEKLEUNG SHOES: @EXPOSURELONDON SHEK LEUNG @_SHEKLEUNG EXPOSURE @EXPOSURELONDON)

(Born Damilola Afolabi), I’m met with very calm and humbling energy from the artist, all whilst oozing a quintessential coolness at the same time. Whilst his dancefloor-ready serenades play in the background, the Nigerian-born artist is styled for each of his looks.

Fashion is a representation of feelings

I WANT TO CREATE MUSIC THAT BRINGS DIFFERENT CULTURES TOGETHER

It’s beautiful to see African culture portrayed throughout your visuals, explain the importance of keeping those cultural themes and shoot specifically on the continent?

I like to include diverse cultures in my music, both sound and visuals. The world is very segregated, and I want to create music that brings different cultures together. Some of my songs include English, Spanish and French. I want to make my music more universal.

You released ‘No Bad Vibes’ last month, tell me about that project and the inspiration behind it?

I started recording straight after my previous album ‘Zaza Vibes.’ I had recorded multiple unreleased projects, and each time I felt that I haven’t quite gotten IT yet. I thought about the theme and energy that I wanted to come across, then ‘No Bad Vibes’ came together and I just knew that this was the album, like this is IT. Once I put the tracklist together, everything felt complete.

I would say Copenhagen and Barcelona, it will be my first time visiting both Spain and Denmark. Amsterdam too, I’m excited to perform, wherever I get the chance, I’m up for it!

MOLENERATION_

SHOES: @EXPOSURELONDON

INSTAGRAM HANDLE: MOLE’NERATION (@MOLENERATION_)

EXPOSURE (@EXPOSURELONDON)

With Afro beats playing such a poignant role in the global music scene, what’s the main message that you want to come across in your music?

I just want to play a role in the actual music, changing how music sounds, I want to keep pushing our culture to the world. I want people to feel my energy, using slang and Afro language like ‘Caro’ and ‘Zaza.’ We want that energy to come across. It’s amazing when that happens.

Formerly signed to Wizkid’s ‘StarBoy’ label, tell me about that journey?

It was an amazing time. I studied at Manchester University in the UK and Wiz and I shared the same stylist. She liked my EP so much that she played it

for Wiz. We then linked up in Nigeria, and instantly the vibe and Energy were very pure. The first song that we recorded was ‘Caro’ and it was massive, we worked so well together.

You formed Rasaki Group, to help artists, particularly around the legalities of the creative industry, what inspired you to do that?

It was always in my plans to have a label and to help other up-and-coming artists across the creative industry. My goal is to keep pushing people and to show that they can make something out of nothing.

If you could work with anyone in the industry who would it be?

If you had asked me that five years ago,

I would have said Rihanna, Drake, or Chris Brown, but now I’m in a different space and I go off of energy. If we meet and we vibe, I’m good to go.

How do you relax and unwind?

I play a lot of Fifa and I beat everyone, including my manager (at this point L.A.X’s road manager Ade is chuckling in the background). My team is Manchester United. I’m quite romantic so I like to go on dates, I like the cinema, nice restaurants, flowers, and good food.

What’s your message to fans?

I just want to thank people who have been listening to my music. Keep listening and I will keep bringing you sweet, good music.

My goal is to keep to show that they can make something out of nothing.

pushing people

RHYZEM RHYZEM OFFICIAL (@RHYZEM)

TONY EVANS JR

IS ONE OF COUNTRY MUSIC’S BRIGHT YOUNG STARS

By DJ Chalant

TONY EVANS JR is making a name for himself in the country music space. The singer-songwriter started drawing attention from fans and other famed musicians by posting cover songs on his Tik-Tok page. Country music stars the likes of Luke Combs and Mickey Guyton, as well as R&B royalty Keisha Cole, have all recognized the talents of Tony Evans Jr. The Atlanta native brings a fresh perspective to the genre with a sound often described as countryinspired R&B music.

Tony’s been cultivating his unique sound at an early age. His dad, Tony Evans, was also a country musician who was signed to a major label. Having a father involved in the music industry enabled a young Tony Jr to get an early look at being in the studio, thus initiating what would become a lifelong passion. Even though Tony Jr at the time did not envision himself as a country music star, his family saw it in him from the start.

We spoke with the budding star fresh off the release of his latest EP titled ‘Starless’, to talk about some of his influences and future endeavors.

Chalant: Who were some of your early musical influences coming up?

Tony Evans Jr: Earth, Wind & Fire, Teddy Pendergrass, George Strait, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra.

Chalant: You notably stated that you make music for people who like country music but may not want to admit it in public, can you explain that?

Tony Evans Jr: Yes. People say they don’t like country music, but really they just have not been exposed to it much.

Chalant: Was there a point in your life you didn’t want to admit to liking country music?

Tony Evans Jr: Oh yeah, I didn’t want to do country at first. It was not the cool thing to do at the time where I was from. My family told me I was going to be a country star. They saw it in me way before I did. Even my friends from high school would not

have thought that either, they knew I used to walk around with a guitar, but they never would have expected I would end up doing country. I want to change that a little bit. I won't say I want to make it popular because country music is already popular, but I do want to change the way people from certain communities look at it.

Chalant: When was the moment you fully embraced the country genre?

Tony Evans Jr: I was signed to a label, and I saw the deal was not going anywhere. I was looking for a way out of the deal, but I had a lot of time to sit and think about what I wanted to do and who I wanted to be as an artist. In the end, it was country music. It was always there, I just thought, “If I’m going to take this chance, then I’m going to do it my way.” And that’s what we went with.

Chalant: How has your latest EP “Starless” been received so far?

Tony Evans Jr: It's been great, people are vibing with it, and I’m completely happy, I'm happy with it. Fans love it. This is a new experience for me, even with just releasing music in this way.

Chalant: What was the inspiration behind it?

Tony Evans Jr: Just love and heartbreak and the gray area in between. I want all this to kind of be a sneak peek into where I'm headed with my music. It is four tracks, and the first three tracks are similar, but about time you get the fourth track a little bit different. The vibe changes a little bit. It is setting up for everything that’s to come. You must wait for what’s next.

Chalant: What is the biggest takeaway you want for people who are just discovering you and your music?

Tony Evans Jr: Just vibe with it. Listen to it with an open mind, let it take you where it takes you. And that’s it, that’s the whole point.

You can stream ‘Starless’ on Spotify and other streaming services.

The Atlanta native is changing the perspective on country music by carving his own unique lane.

Remember me like this

Alfred E. Rutherford Talks Representation, Resilience and Being a Modern-Day Renaissance Man

By Kent A. H. Olden

Spring ahead, Fall back. That’s what most of us tell ourselves to remember what to do at Daylight Savings Time. The fallback gives us an opportunity to relax and reflect on the excitement that’s passed while the spring ahead propels us forward to the excitement that lies ahead. For some of us, that spring ahead takes so far that we break through to claim everything that we know we deserve. For Alfred E. Rutherford, the spring ahead led to a spring breakthrough of sorts, and this is his story…

Spring Breakthrough

Florida-born and Bahamas-bred, Alfred E. Rutherford is an outstanding actor who gives his all in every role he takes on. From To Live and Die in Bed-Stuy to Lace on BET+ and everything in between, there is a dynamic dedication to diversity and fast-forward focus like none other that laces each and every one of his roles. Now, starring opposite Keesha Sharp (Girlfriends) and Rhyon Nicole Brown (Empire, Our Kind of People) in Hallmark’s Spring Breakthrough, directed by Mykelti Williamson (ATL, Waiting to Exhale), Rutherford reminds us why he does what he does so well.

“The representation of how Black males are portrayed onscreen is important to me,” says Rutherford, in discussing what led him to take on the role of Anton. “When I read it, it was about [Anton] coming back to reconcile and be at his daughter’s wedding to walk her down the aisle and I was like, ‘Yeah, I’ll do it!’ And when you see it, when you see us on the beach – Black people, family, beautiful people on the screen – that was special to me and my journey.”

Always operating in that seriousness of ensuring the right image of his own people is properly displayed, Rutherford remains intentional in the choices he makes, both with the role and which role he takes when he takes it.

“I’ll tell you this,” he says. “A great friend of mine directed my first feature film called Algeny in 2010, he told me, ‘However you come into the game is how you’re going to be perceived,’ and I grew up in the Caribbean, so you have this pressure on your back to make sure that you represent yourself in the right way, and I’ve always been aware of that. I haven’t had to take roles like Thug #1 or Thug #2.”

Staying true to his word shines through in his upcoming role in The In-Law Gang!, premiering in theaters this August.

“I play a doctor – a doctor – enlisted by the female to get back at her in-laws who keep terrorizing her,” Rutherford says. “And I’m proud of myself because when you see me in a film, you don’t see the stereotypical Black man.”

This is the Story

Whether it’s breathing life into a fictional story or shedding light on a real one, Rutherford stops at nothing to make sure the right story is told in the way that it should be. His most recent role as Manny Halley in the upcoming Lifetime biopic Keyshia Cole: This Is My Story is a testament to that.

“I got the audition, and I didn’t think I was gonna do it because I didn’t think I looked like the guy. I hate it when I see a biopic and the actor doesn’t look like the real-life person,” Rutherford says.

After his wife convinced him to take the audition anyway, things changed.

“When I spoke to the director about it, she told me, ‘Listen this is a portrayal of Manny Halley; this is not The Manny Halley Story,’ and that kinda put me at ease,” Rutherford says.

Giving Keyshia her flowers for her portrayal of herself and paying homage to her mother, Alfred beams with pride in the work that was put into this Lifetime project.

Spousal Support

Having a spouse in the industry has its pros and cons, and the Rutherfords are no stranger to any of them.

“You can bounce ideas off each other and ask for advice and all that’s great,” says Rutherford. “But the nature of our industry takes us to where the work is. I was shooting a tv show in Atlanta during Christmas while she was in L.A. doing a feature film for BET. Then I had to fly out to L.A. and she was on her way to New York and your wires get crossed because you’re away from each other…” Rutherford emphasizes the importance of having a partner with the same profession and passion and how, “…but you understand each other, and it works. I don’t think people who aren’t artists can ever truly understand what it’s like to be an artist.”

But because he understands all too well, Alfred has made it his personal mission – a crusade, in his own words – to bring awareness to mental health maintenance in an industry as unpredictable as entertainment.

“We don’t talk about it with our artists,” he says. “And I don’t think people understand

how difficult it is to be an artist: the ups and downs, the highs and lows, the working and not working, it really wreaks havoc on one’s mental state. Just like the WGA strike right now – we need to honor the arts and people working in the arts more. That’s it.”

Your Gift Will Make Room

Considering himself a modern-day renaissance man, Rutherford reinforces the importance of representation among the underrepresented.

“When I say I’m a renaissance man, I mean I’m passionate about things other than art, but there’s a seriousness behind the art outside of celebrity,” he says. “When I say modern renaissance man, I’m talking about the way I think, the way I walk, the way I show up in the world. It’s not about the glamorization of being in front of the camera, but how I affect those who come behind me. Simply put, it’s the difference between being the actor or the producer;

being on camera vs. owning the studio and calling the shots behind it. You have to create a space for yourself for people to see you how you want them to.”

Keep up with the latest on Alfred E. Rutherford at https:// alfrederutherford.com/. Keyshia Cole: This Is My Story premiers on Lifetime on June 24, 2023 and The InLaw Gang! hits theaters this August.

”WHEN I SAY I’M A RENAISSANCE MAN, I MEAN I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT THINGS OTHER THAN ART, BUT THERE’S A SERIOUSNESS BEHIND THE ART OUTSIDE OF CELEBRITY,”

“Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World” is a film that tells the inspiring true story of George Foreman, highlighting his remarkable comeback and the transformative power of second chances. From a challenging childhood, Foreman harnessed his anger and went on to become an Olympic Gold medalist and World Heavyweight Champion. However, a lifethreatening experience led him to step away from boxing and pursue a spiritual path.

Motivated by the struggles faced by his community, Foreman decides to return to the ring and defies all odds by reclaiming his title, making history as the oldest and most improbable World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. The movie, directed by acclaimed filmmaker George Tillman Jr. and written by Dan Gordon, Frank Baldwin and George Tillman Jr., features Khris Davis in the lead role as Foreman. Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker portrays Foreman’s trainer and mentor, Doc Broadus.

The film explores Foreman’s journey of triumph over adversity and the resilience that allowed him to overcome personal challenges

By JustinWallace

while making a significant impact both inside and outside the boxing ring.

Bleu: How excited are you for people to see you know this movie?

I’m excited for people to see the Mr. Foreman story. I think that a lot of people

don’t know his story. I think that a lot of people think they know who he was or who he is. The movie will bring a lot of truth to light about the kind of person he truly is, the gentle heart that he really is a loving family man, the giving friend you know, so yeah, I’m excited.

With a charismatic screen presence and a range that spans from intense drama to light-hearted comedy, Khris Davis has made a name for himself as a talented and highly sought-after actor.

Bleu: Tell us about the process while preparing for this role.

Initially, I just watched a bunch of films on him and YouTube stuff and read his autobiographies. And as we got a bit closer to the original start date, I did make a request to go and spend some time with him. And yeah, you know, it did help inform who he is when he’s not on camera. You know, that’s the story we were telling me where I’m telling a story about interviews, you know, you’re telling a story about a human man, an individual, you know, and we are as human beings put it out, okay.

Bleu: What’s your perspective on him?

Not growing up. No. I was a fight fan growing up, but I didn’t come from a family that really watched a lot of boxing. It was just something that I was able to view when I had the TV to myself and I really liked it a lot. But I didn’t know much about Mr. Foreman, except that he, you know, was the guy that only had to be that he sold the grills. Yeah, you know, so most information that I learned about him during this process was new to me. And I found it to be interesting and nuanced and layered.

Bleu: What are some lessons you learned while filming?

Lessons I learned while filming. I mean, there’s this that’s hard to say because there’s so many lessons that come with doing a movie of this magnitude telling a story of this magnitude telling a story about a person of that magnitude so working with incredible actors. So quite literally every day was a learning lesson. Every day was a different type of aligned to cross, you know, something to push further for while doing the process.

Bleu: How was it working with such a great cast?

One thing that I picked up on originally was Alan Kay incredible, the other actors were, I was, I was very impressed by the level of dedication and the amount of work that people bring into the table. You know, and I think that is because we all collectively believed in telling the story and upholding the legacy of Mr. Foreman.

Thereviews are in after the release of Amazon Prime’s second season of Harlem and with a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes - the series is a binge-worthy hit.

Directed by Tracy Oliver, who created the box-office hit Girl’s Trip, the Harlem series follows the lives of four Black women navigating relationships, careers and the hustle and bustle of New York City. The actresses recently shared in an interview that it felt like a version of Sex and the City they always yearned for but never had.

And in that team to create this hit show, which was renewed for a third seasoncostume designer Deirdra Govan.

A former Harlem resident, Govan tapped into her own life experiences. From eclectic friends to interesting relationships and the highs and lows of life, these created a basis for the experience Govan set out to create in her designs. Each design, embodying a highend, high-fashion style, comes after hours of research and understanding the community to match Oliver’s vision - a true collaborative experience.

“When we create costume designs, we are creating art,” Govan says. “We are creating people’s lives.”

With each scene and every storyline, Black women take center stage, in a manner that deconstructs stereotypes, Govan says.

She explains that in Hollywood and films, she found women of color hypersexualized,

oversexed, drug addicted and mammies. But this show brought a new opportunity to confront overused, inaccurate portrayals of Black women.

“Any project that really challenges those stereotypes - that is the joy,” Govan says. “As a black woman, Harlem resonated with me because it was an opportunity to tell my stories, to tell stories of my girlfriends who were like some of these women in the shows that we were creating.”

“I buck against the tropes,” she adds. “I bunk against the stereotypes. I break them in half. I tend to be a creative disruptor of the best kind in my mind.”

At a young age, growing up in Houston, Govan recalled being exposed to community organizing and fighting for civil rights in large part due to her father, who served as a politician and minister. Activism continued to revolve in her life. And, soon, art became for Govan. Influenced by her creative mother and a former model and fashion creator, Govan soon set out to create anything she desired with her endless collection of crayola art supplies.

“I learned very early on what it meant to have a space of one’s own and what it meant to have the freedom and the support to create,” she says. “And that came from my family.”

In her world - creating and designing - a poster of New York City is plastered on her walls. A big believer in self-actualizationher dream to reach New York soon came true. Initially beginning her studies at Pratt Institute, Govan eventually transferred and graduated from Parsons School of Design. Upon graduation, she soon landed work in the fashion industry with the likes of Giorgio Armani and Adrienne Vittadini. But, her trajectory would change.

“It took me to step back and understand that this was not my calling,” she says. “I had always been a designer. I had always been creative and I wanted to exercise that.” Soon, resume in hand, and banging on many stage doors - she finally got her break on working with Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764, which serves as the costume union for Broadway theater, film, and television. Promotions and opportunities later, she eventually found herself on a plane to Stockholm to work on her first TV series - New York Undercover, a Dick Wolf production.

Nearly 20 years later, Govan continues to carve out a career dedicated to storytelling, research and social justice. Some of her projects include work on Sorry to Bother You, The Sun Is Also a Star, Devotion, First Wives Club, and most recently Amazon Prime’s newest series I’m a Virgo, starring Emmy-award winning actor Jharrel Jerome in a coming-of-age story about a 13-foot, young Black man living in Oakland, California.

“It becomes a little bit more than a paycheck for me,” she says. “Being paid is great, but I think at this point in my career, I want to invest and be a part of projects that address a lot of social issues.”

And behind the scenes, her activism carries on. From serving as Vice President of United Scenic Artists Local 829, fighting for pay equity, and creating a space of inclusion for all body shapes, most notably for her work on First Wives Club, Govan continues to love every minute of her career.

“The impact I wanna have is that perspective of art and activism. “The artistry of costume design, the importance of pay equity - those are the hallmarks that I am really all about,” Govan says.

“When we create costume designs, we are creating art” ~Deirdra

Films became all the craze for Lyn Paolo as she grew up in Northeast England. The big screen, the Hollywood stars, and, most importantly, the costume designs captured the eyes of the youthful Paolo. After each visit, Paolo eagerly returned home, ready to recreate the costume designs on her collection of British fashion dolls.

With each newly crafted design, a passion further developed. However, that passion subsided as Paolo pursued a career as an educator, majoring in English literature at Leeds Trinity & All Saints in England. But, her trajectory would soon change. With one suitcase, Paolo arrived in Los Angeles with her college sweetheart, who aspired to be a director.

In the States, the 22-year-old Paolo discovered her true passion as she became enamored in the film industry with her partner. Soon, ditching a career as an educator, Paolo entered the field, attempting to carve her path, taking her first job as a production assistant and craft service.

“There’s such a magic about being on the set first thing in the morning and everyone congregating and the lights coming on,” Paolo shares. “I just fell in love with it.”

Climbing the ranks and various positions later, Paola made the organic move to the costume department. Paolo’s career spans over 30 years with work done on countless movies and TV series, including Netflix’s hit binge-worthy series, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

Some of her accolades include winning an Emmy Award for outstanding achievement in costume design for TV series with her work done for the ABC’s series Homefront in 1993, but she recalls gender playing a role in her journey. Inspiring to develop her production and technical skills, she vaguely remembers being told by one team member that she would never be hired because she was a woman.

“I look back now and think, did I choose that? Because that was where women went in our business back then. Other doors weren’t open back then,” Paolo said. However, she says that any job offered she happily took. Born and raised by a coal mining father and in a working class family, she said she faced economic challenges early in her career, so any job was a blessing and beat her office job, making $350 a week.

“I’m very grateful for the path I did take,” she says. “I absolutely love what I do.”

Three decades of work later - Paolo continues embarking on new ventures, including serving as a costume designer along with co-costume designer Laura Frecon, on the six-episode Netflix prequel series, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, created by award-winning producer Shonda Rhimes, the visionary behind Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and How to Get Away with Murder. As of mid-May, Queen Charlotte garnered over 158 million streamed hours in its second week, for a total of 307 million viewing hours since its debut.

“Within the little village that is a film crew, you have lots of little burrows in your village and we are all working to one end - which is to create something beautiful,” she adds.

However, despite Paolo working on Queen Charlotte with a self-described “dream team,” consisting of Director Tom Verica, CoExecutive Producer Sara Fischer, Hair and Makeup Head Nic Collins and many others, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. The world shut down, but Paolo and her team were ready to pivot.

After countless phone calls and weekly Zoom calls, the team eventually returned to the studio after several months, cautiously following advanced safety precautions and protocols. Despite the isolation and uncertainty, Paolo notes a silver lining amid all the pandemic chaos. By herself in

“I’m very grateful for the path I did take, I absolutely love what I do.” ~Lyn

London, Paolo tapped into her creative side from the comfort of her own space.

“All my kitchen walls were covered with images,” she says. “I had stuff everywhere. I don’t know what the people we were renting from thought, “

Hours of research and collaboration, Paolo, inspired by the Georgian and Regency periods, strived to create an impressionistic experience for viewers. She sought to develop a dark palette, utilizing navy, deep burgundy and a touch of black to evoke a somber setting during the Regency period. However, with different time sequences and jumps to winter and spring, she says proved to be challenging to create a contrast of periods, including the Georgian, which did not involve a darker aesthetic.

“The joy of Queen Charlotte and the joy of the Bridgerton world is to tell the story of that period, but make it appealing to the modern eye,” Paolo explains.

Reminiscing on her red carpet experience at the premiere of “Queen Charlotte and witnessing fans dressed up in their Bridgerton-inspired costumes, she believes the show “brings a little joy to people’s lives.” And as fans from across the world tune inthat creates the most special feeling for Paolo.

“I’m very fortunate that I found a career that sustains my family financially and myself. But also when I walk on the set and I see something and I think ‘oh gosh, come on, we made that’ - that is an amazing feeling,” Paolo says.

CRATER CRATER CRATER

Crater star Thomas Boyce lll shares stage advice to young actors: “the most important thing is consistency”

By Truth Hawkins

Disney’s “Crater” is a film “about friendship and discovery”

Hailing from executive producer Shawn Levy (“Real Steel,” “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “The Adam Project”) - best known as one of the creative minds behind the megahit horror series “Stranger Things” [Netflix]comes “Crater” a new family-friendly sciencefiction adventure headed to Disney+.

Telling the story of Caleb Channing (Russell-Bailey) - who following the death of his father (Mescudito) must leave the lunar mining colony he once called home, for an idyllic faraway planet - highlights an unlikely group of friends, Dylan (Barratt), Borney (Hong) Marcus (Boyce), and a newcomer from Earth, Addison (Grace), when hijinks ensue, as they embark on one final adventure to explore the titular crater.

Recently, Bleu Magazine sat down with one of the film’s stars, Thomas Boyce lll [Marcus], who touched on the film’s core message as well as dropped a few gems for young actors with the dream of breaking into the industry.

“It’s a film about friendship and the discovery age,” Boyce said. He and his co-stars also “did not know each other prior [to the film}.”

However, amid three months on set, the on-screen space companions were every bit successful in establishing “a strong bond,” leading to real magic on the big screen.

”I know McKenna and Orson,” Boyce said. “I’m in contact with them like every single day.”

Boyce added of their off-screen chemistry, emphasizing the blockbuster’s underlying theme: “friendship.”

Joined by multi-hyphenate Kid Cudi [real name Scott Mescudi] - who plays the father of lead character Channing - Boyce revealed, “I found out when everybody else did. I was so shocked and surprised and excited to get to work with him.”

While the duo “did not work closely,” Boyce explained that even from afar, “he was terrific.”

“I mean, he has that kind of glow, you just know he’s a celebrity,” Boyce said.

This opinion reigns true in the trailer, which opens with Cudi speaking about the eerie, mysterious hollow, before he encourages his son to explore it.

“You were born here, raised here. This dome is the only world you’ve ever known,” he tells Caleb while looking at a map. “There’s a place just off past the eastern ridge, right there. You’ll see. Get out there. To the crater.”

The clip then cuts to Caleb and his best friends as they prepare for an action-packed

adventure, chock full of meteor showers, rover rides and a game of moon rock baseball.

“The most important thing to remember: it’s not just about where you’re going, it’s about how you get there, the people you get there with,” Mescudito said. “You’re never quite the same as you were when you began.”

Much like the backdrop for the story itself, Boyce shared that snagging the role of Marcus was out-of-this-world - a testimony of hard work, consistency and perseverance.

“I grew up doing community theater,” Boyce shared of his early career. “In Texas,

to be on Disney,” Boyce added of seeing his dream come full circle.

As for young actors looking to break into the bizz - despite their naysayers - the selfproclaimed superhero and sci-fi aficionado “would say the most important thing is consistency.”

“So many people might do a production here and there - like a school play and stop,” Boyce said. “Acting is like a muscle. So it’s important to work it out as often as you can. You can’t give up.”

Of his own rise to fame, he explained “it may take years and years and years and years before you see anything happen.”

“I mean, people see me in this movie now,” Boyce said. “Now that I’m 18 it’s coming out. But I started all the way in the beginning of middle school. So I had all these years of just nothing working. So, work to be better, and never stop.”

Further, Boyce is currently in post-production on the film “Wonder London,” starring his younger sister, London Boyce, Tichina Arnold and Dee Hill.

According to the rising star, the motion picture is “a passion project,” loosely based on the book of the same name penned by London Boyce.

In the film, a nine-year-old girl is bullied for her natural hair, leaving her helpless and alone. That is, until a bizarre chain of events awards her an opportunity to defend herself - though, opening her up to unexpected dangers from an unknown source.

“I would absolutely say that the main message you should take away from the film is believing in yourself and not letting things stop you. We all have that ‘Wonder London’ inside of us. It’s about overcoming challenges,” Boyce said.

Up next, Boyce shared his plans to dive into the wonderful world of writing and directing, all the while manifesting a highly coveted role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

you would hear all the time on the radio, if you want to be on Disney Channel, call this number. And, you know, I did those all the way to the end but didn’t see much success.”

“But, I remember telling all my friends I’d be on Disney one day. And nobody - it was like, ‘oh, okay, like sure.’ But no one ever suspected that I would actually do it. And it’s crazy because all of my friends that I grew up telling I would be on Disney are still in school together. And, it’s coming out [news of the film]- it’s actually coming into fruition. So that’s been such a satisfying thing about this whole journey. It was absolutely a dream come true - one hundred percent, I always wanted

“My favorite superhero is actually the Incredible Hulk. I feel like I’ve always been a huge Hulk fan. But, like many other young Black kids, I saw myself in the spider verse, I couldn’t help but see myself, my cousins, brothers and friends. So I would love to put on the mask and bring Miles Morales to life,” Boyce said. “Believe it or not, before that film came out, I actually performed at children’s birthday parties as Miles Morales, so yeah, I think I have Miles in my blood, you know?”

We concur!

In the meantime, join Boyce [and friends] as he fulfills his late father’s last wish in “Crater” on May 12, on Disney+.

“ I REMEMBER TELLING ALL MY FRIENDS I’D BE ON DISNEY ONE DAY.”

REASONS TO PHEEL GOOD: A Conversation with Hitmaker Pheelz

By Jason Kwame

“I just wanted to start telling my own story. I had been playing well ‘on the assist’ or ‘supporting striker’ for a while, so it was time to take the center stage and shake the world my way”. What’s for sure is 28-yearold Phillip Kayode Moses, better known as Pheelz, didn’t drop the ball when he made the jump from being one of Nigeria’s go-to producers, to a global hitmaking artist himself. His own songs like 2022’s fun, sing-a-long anthem Finesse, & the uptempo, charged Electricity featuring Davido have taken the charts, the clubs - and Tik Tok - by storm. Finesse has a mind blowing 79 million views and a Billboard Global 200 entry. That’s not even counting the remix with French Montana.

Pheelz’ growing success on his own makes sense, since he’s been hip to the afrobeats scene and beat making game since age 16. He earned his stripes, badges and multiple award nominations - as a hungry newcomer producing for veterans like Olamide, M.I. and more recently Fireboy DML (“Scatter”), Mr Eazi (“Surrender”) and Teni (“Billionaire”). What better way for Pheelz to discover the makings of a party starting, body shaking record than producing for Nigeria’s biggest talents for over a decade? The stage had already been set, and Pheelz had been warming up way before afrobeats had blazed through the United States and the United Kingdom.

Now with an EP perfectly titled Pheelz Good, an upcoming album on the way and feel-good bangers that deserve a spot on our summer playlists (make sure to get into the smooth & sultry single Pheelz like Summer), Pheelz taps into “a different frequency”. One that is making waves globally. It feels - and sounds like - it’s his time! Here’s his take on that:

Congrats on the incredible back to back successes Pheelz. First things first, what are the main messages or “Pheelings” you want to express with this new EP Pheelz Good?

There are just three feelings I want to express with Pheelz Good. Three feelings I feel most of the time. The first is the Lover boy feeling which can be heard in songs like “Stand By You” and “Pheelz Like Summer”. Then there’s the bad boy feeling which can be heard in “Pablo Escobar”, “Finesse”, and “Ballin”. Finally, there’s the culture boy feeling with songs like “Emi Laye Mi”, “Electricity”, and “Ewele.”

How long did it take to perfect it? What was the process like for you?

It took roughly four to five years to finish the EP. Although it’s enjoyable, the process was kind of tedious because I had to go through a phase of self-doubt and make sure I was strong enough to embark on this new journey. So, I just had to make music, tune out the world, and do my thing.

What would you say your favorite track is and why?

It’s actually unfair to pick a favorite track, but if I had to, It would be “Pheelz Like Summer” and “Stand by You” because I think they are global records.

The visuals for Pheelz like summer video recently dropped, and at the right time too! You filmed it in Ghana right? How was that?

It was amazing filming that video because we shot it in a place where a lot of slave trade used to go on. So just shooting my video in that location and turning it into something beautiful is monumental for me.

How did you know this was the perfect sound to drop for the summer?

To be honest, I don’t know. I just make my songs. If the world or my fans say it’s the perfect song for the summer, who am I to say otherwise? But yeah, It’s the perfect song for the summer for sure!

Now looking back a little , what’s it been like seeing the global reception and love Finesse has received over the past year?

It’s been crazy...it’s been a blessing. A lot of these things still surprise me and I feel like I still don’t fully grasp how big the song is. It’s a blessing I don’t take for granted at all.

How did the collaboration with Davido come about for Electricity?

That was while we were working on his current Timeless album. It’s crazy because none of the songs made the album. But we made “Electricity” while we were working on it and just decided to make a song together for my project. “Electricity” was supposed to be my first release in 2021 but then, “Finesse” happened and we had to pause the release.

Now on songs like Pablo Escobar, you get deep about the hustle, advice and wise words from your parents, and also making it or proving yourself as an artist…am I right? Powerful lyrics by the way…

Yeah 100%, “Pablo Escobar” is about who I am and how I see myself.

Going back to your music origins, how did a 16 year old Pheelz get the opportunity to produce for Olamide and make a historic hit like First of All?

Olamide has been my friend for a long time. We met when I was 14 years old and were both under the tutelage of ID Cabasa. We became brothers and friends and literally grew together. When it was time for him to start his own thing, he hit me up. That’s a longtime bond.

Who were your musical inspirations back then? What did you grow up listening to?

I grew up listening to a lot of I.D Cabasa, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, Don Jazzy, Jay-Z, Kanye, Rick Rubin, and Drake. Just to name a few.

How do you separate the two: producing for yourself vs. producing for others?

To be honest, I’m still figuring it out. At the end of the day, It’s all about making music. So whether I’m creating for myself or for others, as long as I’m making music I’m fine with that. My own music has to feel like me...it’s just me being me and doing my thing. Music is life for me.

What’s next for you? What do you hope for as an artist?

Arena tours, stadium tours, more music, more charttopping global bangers, and being an entrepreneur on the side.

Is a tour on the cards?

Yes, for sure. This year I want to start touring. I’ve been doing a bit of it. So far, I’ve done LA, New York and Texas. I also want to tour Africa and Australia.

HANDSHAKING

A Custom Whose Days Likely Are Numbered By E. Osborne

YOU’VE NO DOUBT witnessed people with colds sneeze or cough into their palms, or use public urinals and commodes, then, when finished, walk out without bothering to wash their hands. Such behavior, coupled with all the other things that people do in a typical day – use public computers, turn door handles, push elevator buttons, etc. – can result in the hands picking up all kinds of pathogens, including E. coli (Escherichia coli), MERSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), and flu. And these germs can infect not only the owners of the hands but also those with whom they later come into contact. Given such hazards, the time might have come to dispense with the unsanitary practice of shaking hands.

Granted, dispensing with handshaking would be no easy fix because the pull of convention is a powerful one. After all, what gesture would people use to convince others that they are making their promises in good faith? And how would people be able to make judgments about the character or mood of others – based on whether their handshake is firm, limp, lingering, bone-crushing, or sweaty – in social interactions such as job interviews, first meetings, and business deals? Besides, what would be a feasible alternative to handshaking?

Let’s take a look at the available options. Ideally, a feasible alternative to shaking would be one involving little or no bodily contact. As it happens, some already have turned to greeting gestures such as the elbow bump. But it is the fist bump that appears to have gained the most traction as a replacement for the handshake. The gesture, which involves people gently tapping their fists together, is an abbreviated form of the dap (said to stand for "dignity and pride"), a complicated routine that includes handshakes, palm slaps, finger snaps, and other moves created by African-American GIs during the Vietnam War. What the fist bump has going in its favor is that, besides being easier to perform than the awkward elbow bump, fewer germs are transferred because of the smaller surface area in contact when two fists meet. And with the advent of COVID-19, it is this fact that has made it easier for many to justify giving up handshaking in favor of the fist bump.

PHOTO: TYLER NYXUNSPLASH

Indeed, if several high-profile instances of fist bumping are any indication, the gesture is growing in popularity. For example, the comedian/TV host Howie Mandel, who reportedly has mysophobia, an irrational fear of germs, opts to fist bump rather than shake hands with guests on his shows. Another fist bumper is Myron Lowery, a former Mayor Pro Tem (temporary) of Memphis, Tennessee, who used the gesture when greeting the Dalai Lama during the Tibetan spiritual leader's visit to Memphis some years ago. Other high-profile users of the greeting gesture include Barack Obama, who bumped fists with wife Michelle before taking the stage in St. Paul, Minnesota, after winning the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination; Kamala Harris, who bumped fists with former president Obama on being sworn in as vice president in 2021; and President Joe Biden, who fist-bumped with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during their controversial 2022 meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Still, because some consider the fist bump unsuitable for formal situations, the gesture is unlikely to be embraced unanimously as a replacement for the handshake. Okay, so where would one look for a more formal substitute for handshaking – one that obviates the need to touch another?

NON-CONTACT GREETING GESTURES ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD

A possible substitute for the handshake might be found in the Muslim world. In some predominantly Muslim nations, a popular greeting gesture involves placing the palm of the right hand over the heart. Although the gesture is done after Muslims shake hands (referred to in Arabic as “making musafahah”) on arrival and departure, those non-Muslims who use this gesture typically dispense with the handshake. Other contact-free greeting forms of salutation are to be found elsewhere in the world. In India and Nepal, for example, there's the namaste, a respectful gesture that people use when greeting relatives, friends, and guests. The word namaste is derived from Sanskrit (the ritual language of Hinduism, somewhat analogous to Latin in the Catholic church) and translates roughly as "I bow to the divine in you." People perform the namaste by placing the palms together, with fingers pointing upwards, as in prayer, bringing them to the front of the chest, then bowing slightly.

Significantly, non-contact greeting styles derived from the namaste, but bearing different names, are used in those

partly Indianized countries of Southeast Asia: in Thailand (the wai), in neighboring Laos (the nop), in Cambodia (the sampeah), and in parts of the Indonesian archipelago (the sembah). Like the Indian namaste, these gestures are performed by placing the palms together, with fingers pointing upwards, prayer-like, and placing them in front of the chest while bowing slightly (and with bent knees if a female). The higher one holds the hands, and the lower the bow, the more the respect shown to the person being greeted. Again, as in India, people in these areas use the gesture to greet each other, express gratitude, and apologize for a mistake or misdeed.

Other places that might provide a substitute for handshaking are the two Chinas: the mainland republic and the offshore political entity of Taiwan. In both areas, the traditional greeting is the fist-andpalm gesture, so-called because it is performed by cupping a fist in the palm while holding them at stomach level and bowing. People employ the fist-in-palm gesture when greeting others and when saying goodbye. They also use it when visiting others during the traditional Chinese New Year and when attending weddings, birthday celebrations, and funerals.

Then there's the Japanese ojigi (meaning "bow"). Historically associated with the samurai warrior class, this gesture is used, among other things, for greetings, making introductions, showing gratitude, and apologizing. Men bow with their hands at their sides, and women bow with their hands in the front. Whether people bow formally, from the waist, or casually, with a slight nod of the head, depends on the degree of respect accorded to the recipient of the bow.

As the preceding culture-specific greeting conventions show, shaking hands is hardly a universally practiced custom. As they also show, there is no need to touch people – and in so doing to make judgments about them based on their handshake – which is, in a sense, a kind of intrusion into another's personal space. In the end, should you choose to adopt a particular greeting gesture as an alternative to shaking hands – be it bumping fists or bumping elbows, bowing, or whatever –here's hoping that others won't judge you too harshly for doing so. After all, discontinuing the shaking of hands will not change your core being, just the way you choose to interact with others in a particular socialcontact situation.

PHOTO: VINICIOUS AMANO - UNSPLASH

PAPOOSE

Rapper and TV Personality Papoose Shares a Helpful Reminder for Married Couples Who Feel Frustrated By Kirby Carroll

EXPLORE UNIQUE CULTURAL topics, discussions, and perspectives on iOne’s new TV series: ‘Listen to Black Men’ streaming on Cassius.com now.

If you’re a fan of lyricism, then you know the name Papoose (real name Shamele Mackie). He started his career in the late 1990’s and remains relevant and impactful today. There are passionate millennial hip-hop lovers who can eloquently break down bars from his earlier mixtapes and current projects and Gen-Z audiences who are fans of his personal life and marriage to rapper Remy Ma, that he proudly showcases on VH1’s Love and Hip Hop. But however you know of him, one thing is clear: he’s a hustler. The New York native has always had a love for artistry and credits his hometown for his go-getter mentality.

“Growing up in Brooklyn, it’s a rough neighborhood,” Papoose said. “A lot of people don’t make it out. I wanted to be different and make something of myself. I figured that out at a young age and it kept me going.”

After working for years in the industry and gaining, and unfortunately losing (through no fault of his own) a $1.5 million deal, he knows the highs and lows of the industry. Now he’s using that knowledge and skill to help others through Tunecore.

“Growing up and having dreams of being an artist, getting a record deal is implanted in your brain,” Papoose said. “So when I finally got that deal earlier in my career, and it fell apart – I was lost for that moment. Then someone came to me with the definition of a word. They said ‘you can release music on your own and monetize off of it,’ and that word was Tunecore.”

When the platform first came out, no one was doing what they were doing, and Papoose utilized it to the max. But then, in 2021 he made an announcement that he was retiring from rapping. However, to close out the chapter correctly, he released an album every month of the year as a special thank you to his fans. Audiences and other artists applauded his skills and efforts, and the project gained features from Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and more. It stirred up Tunecore’s algorithm so much that they asked him to come on as a partner.

“Some people want the youth to go through things the hard way, like they did,” Papoose said. “I’m not like that. I want it to be easier for them, and that’s what I’m doing as an executive at TuneCore.”

That story alone deserves credit. Still what gives him the most pride is being a husband and a father, which he delves into on the new iOne show, Listen to Black Men. Hosted by Mouse Jones, the seven-episode series centers on the stories and experiences of influential Black men.

It gives an authentic viewpoint on topics like men’s health, dating and more. Some discussions may even be a bit uncomfortable. Still, he admits that the conversations feel therapeutic and he wishes more Black men would embrace expression and vulnerability.

“So many things affect Black men,” Papoose said. “We feel like we always have to be strong, but like, when you lose a loved one, it takes away from you as a person. We feel like we can’t express sorrow, you have to be a man. But on the inside those things really hurt. If you need to cry, let it out. It doesn’t make you less of a man.”

He went on to explain how important being a father and a husband is in his life, and there are certain elements that can’t be overlooked. For example, when Remy Ma was expecting he rolled out the red carpet for her, as he feels every man should do.

“When a woman is pregnant, she shouldn’t have to lift a single finger,” Papoose said. “If she wants hot dogs and ice cream at any time of day or night, you need to make that happen. You need to take on all the duties. Don’t feed into that idea of what a man is supposed to do, even if you’re one of those chauvinistic guys, you need to make an

adjustment around this time.” He goes on to share that the celebrity couple went through a miscarriage in the past and knows how sacred every experience can be. The pair has been through a lot, but their love continues to thrive.

In one episode, media personality and artist Jessie Woo, crowned Papoose “Husband of the Century,” a title he doesn’t take for granted. In fact, he thinks many more marriages would be successful if couples simply remembered the oath they took.

“I have an amazing wife, but whenever it gets rough I remind myself of my wedding vows,” Papoose said. “Couples get frustrated and want to give up because they don’t take them seriously. You took a vow to honor this person, so whatever that means you have to embrace it.”

There were many special moments in this conversation, and I tried my best to capture a snapshot of it. But there’s so much more to explore and unpack, luckily you can start streaming the series right now. To learn more about Papoose and enjoy healthy, engaging and fun conversations, check out Listen to Black Men every Friday on Cassius. com and Madamenoir.com.

“IF YOU NEED TO CRY, LET IT OUT. IT DOESN’T MAKE YOU LESS OF A MAN.”

THE GOD’S SPEAK

God Shammgod & Shammgod Jr. partner with Advil for “The Show Must Go On” Campaign; share sound sentiments ahead of Father’s Day

The father-son duo reveal how sports has strengthened their bond despite juggling demanding careers

“The most important thing that ever happened in my life was the birth of my first son [Sham Jr.]. The second moment was me moving to Harlem. That gave me the vision to be successful as a basketball player, to want more in life - then I would say the third best day in my life was getting drafted to the NBA,” says NBA royalty God Shammgod in the opening cut of his new campaign “The Show Must Go On,” with Advil.

“The one thing you want to do is pass on something that you consider you’ve done great or that you’ve done good in your life,” he continued.

So, naturally, when Bleu had the opportunity to catch up with God and Shammgod Jr. to chat about this momentous occasion - working alongside each other on a campaign for the consumer-preferred and expert-recommended brand - we had to ask: “What does this moment at this point and time in your life mean to you and why?”

“Partnering up with Advil to do this campaign is an amazing feeling because of where I’m at in my life and who I’m doing it with,” said God.

“Right now in life, I’m a coach. Most of the people who know my story, know, I grew up in Harlem and made it to the NBA - played 20 games,” said God, touching on his decision to enter the NBA draft in 1997 in which he was drafted 45th overall by the Washington Wizards.

“I fought through and persevered to show that you can still have a better life and meet your goals. You don’t have to end with the NBA. If one dream doesn’t happen - if you work hard - other dreams will open up for you,” the Dallas Mavericks player development coach, 47, continued.

“And then, you know, all these years later doing it with my son - he’s part of the main reason why I started this journey,” added God, sharing that he became a father at 17-years-young.

“It changed my life - like having real purpose and meaning. Loving and caring for something bigger than yourself - wanting and wishing that one day you could get to a place to share something like this with him.”

He concluded adding that for both of them to currently be coaches - as Sham Jr. currently serves as Assistant Coach for the Delaware Blue Coats - is simply icing on the cake.

Meanwhile, Sham Jr. who revealed he recently became a father himself, added that “for people to see us do this together, I think, is a big thing. For him to want to do it with me, it gives me the opportunity to, you know, show what I’m doing in life as well. So, I thank

By Truth Hawkins

'' IF ONE DREAM DOESN’T HAPPEN - IF YOU WORK HARDOTHER DREAMS WILL OPEN UP FOR YOU,''

him for that. And I think that that’s like, just a huge thing to do. You know, for your son or for anybody.”

As for how Advil’s products - such as its Dual Action Back pain reliever - has both elevated the pair’s game and helped maintain their overall health and wellness, God expressed it’s a game changer, joking that ice baths and Advil got him through in his early career as you “didn’t have all these sports things that you have now. Like all these machines and different things to help compress.”

“In my era, when you were down it’s like, ‘hey, take some Advil.’ ‘Broke your arm? Take Advil.’ Advil and ice was everything. So for me to see this come full circle - this is like one of the strangest and one of the most amazing feelings.”

“I think, for me, I mean, I’m not that old,” Shammgod Jr. laughingly interjected. “It was always something that when you got to the point of the season - probably around January, February - when you had already took a beat, and played a bunch of games. That [Advil] was the first thing you look for before a game - because as much as you recover everybody knows, when you get to a certain point in the season, something hurts, whether it’s an ankle or a finger- it kind of took the pain right away.”

Meanwhile, as we are fast on the heels of Father’s Day, the dynamic duo shared the biggest lesson they’ve learned from each other in hopes of inspiring others to slow down and be present.

“I would say how to navigate time,” revealed God. “I’m saying this because I have other children, other sons, you know, he [Sham Jr.] has other siblings. So, just trying to navigate time, to spend and appreciate every little moment that I have with my kids - not to get so caught up in trying to work so hard.”

“I will say the best thing that I learned is communication,” added Sham Jr. “I mean, my dad, even when he was playing in another country he made sure to video call. Then when he did come home, he made sure he came and picked me up. So I think just having that constant communication - being able to do stuff like FaceTime and be there when you can be there,” he continued of how his father poured into him - the efforts he made to nurture their relationship despite demanding careers and parental responsibilities.

For more on God Shammgod & Shammgod Jr. “The Show Must Go On” campaign, click here. (would need permission to link the rough cut campaign video clip provided in Kerry’s email - so did not link)

HARRY BELAFONTE: SINGER, ADVOCATE AND ACTIVIST

The world lost a true advocate for justice and equality on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Harry Belafonte, beloved human rights activist, actor and singer died of congestive heart failure at ninety six years old. He left a legacy of standing up to abusive authority and speaking for the concerns of the poor and the marginalized despite the pressures of fitting in as a popular entertainer. Belafonte was born in Harlem in 1927 to Caribbean parents, his mother was from Jamaica and his father was from the island of Martinique. Belafonte’s mother was a cleaning lady who greatly influenced his drive to fight for human dignity. In an interview with NPR in 2011, Belafonte stated: “She was tenacious about her dignity not being crushed. And one day, she said to me - she was talking about coming back from a day where she couldn’t find work. Fighting back tears, she said, ‘Don’t ever let injustice go by unchallenged.’”

Belafonte absorbed the humble island culture his mother came from and used his platform to speak for those who often didn’t get a chance to be heard.

His hit “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” got the attention of audiences in America and it was a hit internationally as well. Belafonte expressed the deeper meaning behind the Calypso song in 2011.

“The song is a work song,” he said. “It’s about men who sweat all day long, and they are underpaid.

“Count the bananas I’ve picked so I can be paid. When people sing in delight and dance and love it, they don’t really understand unless

they study the song - that they’re singing a work song that’s a song of rebellion.”

Belafonte made it clear early on in his music and acting career that he wasn’t just a popular artist, he had a message for people to marinate on. His desire to bring meaningful change to the persecuted led him to be a key player in the Civil Rights Movement. Belafonte was a trusted friend and advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and helped organize the Freedom March on Washington in 1963.

In an interview with NPR, Clarence Jones, a man who helped draft the ‘I Have a Dream Speech’ stated it was actually Belafonte who instructed people in the movement to use the television as an advantage.

Jones recalled Belafonte saying: “You have to look at this as a media event not a march.”

“Harry was responsible for assembling what was called a celebrity delegation - a lot of artists from Hollywood and performing artists,” Jones said. “He wanted to be sure that they were strategically situated so that in looking at these celebrities, they also saw a picture of the march and other performers.”

Belafonte remained a critic of abuse of power even in his old age, one time calling out President Barack Obama for not showing enough concern for the poor during his administration and even criticizing Jay-Z and Beyoncé for turning their back on their social responsibility. The human rights legend is survived by his wife and four children.

“IT’S ABOUT MEN WHO SWEAT ALL DAY LONG, AND THEY ARE UNDERPAID.”

His desire to bring meaningful change to the persecuted led him to be a key player in the Civil Rights Movement.

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