Issue 92 Derrick Hayes

Derrick Hayes

Photography by HARVEY JACKSON

Fashion by MICKEY FREEMAN

Ispentmywholelifethinkin'outthebox

Boxin'homiesthree-on-onegotDP'ed,butIain'tdrop Chirp on me, here I come, brrt, spin around the block

Theyblurpedonme,saidIranastopsign,butthat'salie

Ispentmywholelifestaringatthestage

Playin'Sega,daddysmokin'sherm,mamaplayin'spades

Catchin'vapors,grandmasaidI'dgetsomeJordansformygrades

That'smybaby,whenshedied,myheartbrokeahundredways

Ispentmywholelifetrynamakeit,trynachaseit

Thecycleofablackmandivided,trynabreakit

Youtakealoss,shitdon'tcryaboutit,justembraceit

Minorsetbackformajorcomeback,that'smyfavorite

MyniggaLsaid,"YoudoasongwithNip,K.DotheabetterCrip"

Isaid,"Heamanfirst,youhearthewordsouthislips?

Aboutflourishingfromthestreetstoblackbusinesses?"

Levelfour,y'alllivin’giveintofalseimprisonment

Listenclose,mynigga

It'sbiggerthandeucesandfours,mynigga

Sinceelementaryweclose,mynigga, Yeah,straightlikethat

Igiveyouthegame,gobacktotheturf,andgiveitrightback

Forgenerations,webeendealtbadhandswithbadplans

Proveyourdedicationbyhoppin'outGrandAm’s

I'matthepremierepolitickingwithTop,Nip,andSnoop,damn

Pacwatchin'thewaywegrew,fromdedication

NIPSEY HUSSLE “DEDICATION” featuring KENDRICK LAMAR

In times of societal transformation and reflection, it is crucial for us, as a community, to delve into the narratives that shape our perspectives and values. The acknowledgment of systemic racism compels us to confront our own biases, promote inclusivity, and amplify the voices that have been historically marginalized. As we engage in these conversations, let us remember the significance of unity and understanding in fostering a more equitable society.

Financial literacy is a vital aspect of empowerment that often goes overlooked. In our pursuit of societal progress, it is imperative to equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of personal finance. By promoting financial literacy, we can empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their economic well-being, ultimately breaking the cycle of economic inequality.

As we explore these topics in the following pages, let us engage in open dialogue and introspection. Let us commit to understanding the nuances of the issues at hand and actively contribute to positive change. Through empathy, education, and collective action, we can build a more just and equitable future.

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

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.

DJ CHALANT

Deonte Keitt, aka DJ Chalant, is a DJ, writer, and radio personality based in Washington D.C. As a writer, he specializes in music and entertainment with articles featured in Bleu Magazine and True-Magazine. As a DJ, he often spins events with reputable companies such as WPGC 95.5 and Monumental Sports & Entertainment. Additionally, Deonte runs his own media brand called BoxCutters Media, where he produces and hosts The BoxCutters Podcast.

Eddie OSBOURNE

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.

Mickey FREEMAN

Mickey Freeman is a celebrity fashion stylist, designer, and overall fashion style expert born and raised in PhiMickey Freeman is a celebrity fashion stylist, designer, and overall fashion style expert born and raised in Philadelphia. His instinctual creative flair has had very early beginnings and there's no ending in sight. There are many facets to his sartorial expertise that draw in many fashion brands, publications, and celebrity clients. Mickey is currently represented by one of the top talent agencies in the world, The Only Agency. Mickey as well as his styling work has been featured in a variety of fashion publications and prestigious media platforms including GQ, Vogue, Marie Claire, Interview, Entertainment Tonight, CNN, People magazine, NY Times, L'Officiel, to name a few.ladelphia. His instinctual creative flair has had very early beginnings and there's no ending in sight. There are many facets to his sartorial expertise that draw in many fashion brands, publications, and celebrity clients. Mickey is currently represented by one of the top talent agencies in the world, The Only Agency. Mickey as well as his styling work has been featured in a variety of fashion publications and prestigious media platforms including GQ, Vogue, Marie Claire, Interview, Entertainment Tonight, CNN, People magazine, NY Times, L'Officiel, to name a few.

Culture Con

Issa Rae, Teyana Taylor, Candiace Dillard and Jharrell Jerome were just some of the star power that shined at CultureCon NYC held in Brooklyn, NY in October of 2023.

The Ned Nomad

Members of the club/hotel

The Ned Nomad celebrate 1 year with a star-studded VIP bash at their NYC location.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

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

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 both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without fi rst 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.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. 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 healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

 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%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit 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.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and KEEP BEING YOU are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-0250 04/23

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

No matter where life takes you, Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and at BIKTARVY.com. Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

IS THE 2024 BUICK ENVISTA CROSSOVER THE NEXT BEST BUDGET SUV?

By Alex Pasan

BUICK, A STAPLE OF THE AMERICAN CAR INDUSTRY

FOUNDED OVER 100 YEARS AGO, IS RELEASING THEIR NEW 2024 BUICK ENVISTA CROSSOVER THIS SUMMER. THE COMPACT 5-SEATER SUV STARTS AT $22,400 WITH THREE DIFFERENT MODELS: PREFERRED, SPORT TOURING, AND AVENIR. THE AVENIR, THE BEST OF THE THREE, GIVES YOU A BARGAIN THAT YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO REFUSE.

OVERVIEW

When first entering the Envista, the driver and passenger are welcomed with a spacious interior that includes a dashboard that consists of two screens, an 8-inch SUV gauge cluster, and an 11-inch touchscreen interface. The Envista is equipped with Buick's most up-to-date software and includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. Although the base leather interior isn't of the highest quality, buyers will gettheir money's worth.

The cargo space has a volume of 20.7 cubic feet, which turns into 42.0 cubic feet when folding the rear seats. The preferred trim starts at $22,400, and the Avenir trim with all options attached is under $32,000. Those options include a moonroof, an Advanced Safety package (rear cross-traffic alert, heated and power-adjustable exterior mirrors, lane-change alert, adaptive cruise control, intermittent rain-sensing wipers), and rear park assist.

PERFORMANCE

The engine of the Envista is a turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 12-valve inline-3, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection, with 137 horsepower at 5000 rpm. All that power allows the 3200-pound SUV to go from 0 to 60 in 9.3 seconds, 100 miles per hour in 32.3 sec, go a fourth of a mile in 17.0 seconds, and have a top speed of 112 miles per hour.

FUEL ECONOMY

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) predicts the miles per gallon (mpg) will be 28/mpg and 32/mpg on the highway while having a 13.2-gallon tank.

WARRANTY AND MAINTENANCE

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers five or 60,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for the first visit.

SHOULD YOU GET AN ENVISTA?

The Buick Envista will be officially released in the summer of 2024 with a starting price of $22,400 and provides buyers with all they’re looking for in a budget SUV. The Envista has an average of 28 miles per gallon in the city, equal to most modern SUVs. It also has a spacious and modern interior with all the necessities, including an 8-inch SUV gauge cluster and an 11-inch touchscreen interface. The exterior is no different with its modern-day look. If you're in the market for a budget SUV, then the Buick Envista is a serious option worth considering.

A BOLDER SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG HAS GONE BOLDER YET THINNER WITH ITS LATEST ADDITION TO ITS LINEUP OF QUANTUM DOT LED (QLED) TVS

RELEASED IN JULY 2023, the successor to the previous Samsung model released last year has gotten the hardware upgrade needed to increase the total screen size from 84.5” to 97.5.” The TV’s depth has also slimmed down from 2.2” to 1.9”, a feature Samsung advertises as its own “SuperSlim Design.” In addition to its size, the screen’s inner technology has seen continued improvements as well.

Samsung’s new Class QLED 4K TV has a new “Direct Full Array” resolution that allows for a better picture to be produced in even the brightest of rooms. The upgraded “Supersize Picture Enhancer” feature further utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to upscale onscreen content and reduce noise so that the picture is less grainy and all the more immersive. The “Quantum HDR+” feature makes the colors pop more than other screens that use Standard Dynamic Range (SDR).

For consumers interested in using this TV for gaming, the product has a native refresh rate of 120Hz which allows for each and every frame of the most demanding games to be rendered crisply one after

By Mercer Santos

the other.

Gaming consoles such as the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 will be able to take advantage of the higher refresh rate and resolution size thank to their respective next-gen hardware. However, the Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch will not be able to use these features, causing the TV to revert back to a 1080p maximum output.

As a smart TV, the new product comes equipped with plenty of software to ease the user experience.Such features include “AI Energy Mode,” which uses AI to conserve energy usage and ensures consumers save money on their utility costs, Knox Security, Samsung’s mobile security system which protects a user’s personal data, and Samsung TV Plus, which isthe “Best of TV—all for free,” according to the tech company

If that weren’t enough, the audio output received multiple upgrades, too.The TV’s combined Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite system uses 3D surround sound that follows the movement featured on the screen. This feature allows audio—whether it be spoken

dialogue over the roar of a muscle car—to be sent out from the respective side of the screen.

For buyers who are worried that such a massive screen may not fit in their space, Samsung claims that a minimum of three meters is all the space that is needed, according to its “98” QLED: Supersize your space” video. Samsung also offers extended coverage for its protection and warranty service, “Samsung Care+”, exclusively to users who purchase devices via its website.

The TV is valued at a retail price of $7,999.99 but is currently on sale across multiple retailers, including Amazon and Best Buy, for up to 25% off. Samsung also offers three payment options on its official website—a one-time payment, monthly payments over a 24-month period, or four payments over an eight-week period.

Curls with CURL DADDY

HOW EDWIN PIERROTT’S REFLECTION ON NATURAL HAIR CARE LEADS TO RELEASING A PRODUCT FOR CURLY HAIR BACKED BY A MISSION FOR COMMUNITY.

By Dominique Carson

Growing up, Edwin Borquez Pierrott, founder of Curl Daddy LLC, discovered his love and fascination for curly hair. The Dominican Republic native would add the finishing touches to his sister's texture since he had a keen eye for hair texture.

However, modeling executives needed to recognize the beauty and significance of Pierrott's curly hair. They thought his hair needed to be more complex, troublesome, unmanageable, and unmarketable. While this factor can be devastating for some, Pierrot thinks about the needs of others struggling with natural hair. He took his time researching and comparing other natural hair products to see what needed to be added and removed to appeal to curly natural hair for men and women nationwide.

After intense research and figuring out natural ingredients, beautiful smells, and budget without deprivation, Pierrot launched Curl Daddy LLC in 2020. Although the hair product is approaching four years old, the overall mission for the brand is to encourage people to love themselves and embrace the skin they're in, always. He wants everyone to love and adequately style their hair.

In his Canvas Rebel interview, Pierrott discussed his company's mission when he said, "Our community needs to understand that to elevate from within, there is a process that has to happen within yourself. That process includes cleaning up anything that no longer serves you or elevates your soul. Laying down certain things in your journey will naturally flow instead of wanting to have total control".

He added that when someone revives a new version of themselves, they can nourish themselves with specific things to fuel them from within. He also stated that they need to learn how to hold on to their vision, no matter what is happening or what they see with their eyes in their surroundings.

Curl Daddy is unique from other products because it's gluten-free, has no SD (specially denatured alcohol), is sulfate-free, parabenfree, cruelty-free, phthalate-free, and has no sodium chloride. All hair textures can use this product, whether chemically treated, curly, colored or straightened. It suits all hair textures because Curl Daddy promotes a healthy scalp and growth.

The three imperative R's for Curl Daddy are reflect, release, and rebirth. For Pierrott, these R's are needed for the hair journey as someone purifies and restores their inner selves. He knows the products will serve their purpose, but it's up to the consumer to put it into practice so their glow can be presented to the world. For the light to manifest, Pierrott encourages you to search within yourself and allow rebirth to mold you into a stronger and more courageous person.

Pierrott launched the brand during the COVID-19 pandemic, which made him realize that he needed to be the brand's face. He juggled many hats for marketing Curl Daddy Inc. effectively and questioned himself about his business savvy and being more appealing to purchasers. Pierrott would ask himself, "can I do this," but the answer became clear after receiving an email from a satisfied customer about their hair transformation and how Curl Daddy is helping them with their hair.

You can purchase Curldaddy on the merchandiser's website, Amazon.com, and Walmart.com. Curldaddy landed a partnership with Glosswire. com, and you can follow the merchandise on all social media handles. Consumers can review the website to learn how to use Curl Daddy products in great detail and the ingredients for each product. Some ingredients are rosemary, avocado, jojoba, cedarwood, meadowfoam seed oil, and lemongrass to strengthen and smooth the consumer's hair. The following hashtags for the product are #curldaddy and #curlyhair.

Pierrott plans to keep marketing the brand since it's connected to his purpose and passion for hair. Curl Daddy is now a two-time Fashion Group International (FGI) Rising Star nominee in the Beauty Entrepreneur category, completed the Workshop at Macy's, and was selected from 700 brands for the event. Pierrott spoke at the Making It IN Fashion Conference and was featured on InStyle.com.

CULINARY VENTURES

A TASTE of LOS ANGELES

We caught up with Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo as they navigate the vibrant dining scene of Los Angeles, from their flagship Italian eatery, Jon & Vinny’s, to the seafood haven of Son of a Gun, Helen’s, Petit Trois, Cookbook Market and the wine oasis of Helen's. Their culinary empire, anchored by Ventures Restaurant Group, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary landscape of the city, weaving together flavors, experiences, and innovation.

Including By Eric Munson

SHOOK

AND DOTOLO have been business partners for more than a decade and are credited with changing the dining scene in Los Angeles through their many critically acclaimed restaurants.

Since 2017, the chefs have partnered with Delta Airlines to provide meals to Delta One customers on flights from Los Angeles to John F. Kennedy International Airport, Ronald Reagan Airport, Sydney Airport and Boston Logan International.

Delta revamped its food and beverage program, allowing Shook and Dotolo to build unique menus for the clientele. All of the menus are prepared through Carmelized Productions, the chefs’ full-service catering company in Los Angeles. Carmelized Productions is located at 207 W Beach Ave. For more information, call 310-948-9947.

JON AND VINNY’S

The flagship restaurant is called Jon & Vinny’s, an Italian restaurant with three locations in Los Angeles (412 N Fairfax Avenue, 11938 San Vicente Boulevard and 4400 W Slauson Avenue) and one in Beverly Hills (456 N Bedford Drive). Jon and Vinny’s offers a wide menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including pizza, salad, sausage, seafood, pasta, chicken, and steak.

The restaurant also offers Pizza Classes. The classes start at $850 plus $65 per person, excluding an 18% service charge on tax and beverages and a form for registration is available on the restaurant’s website. Jon and Vinny’s is open Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 323-334-3369 (Fairfax), 310-442-2733 (Brentwood), 323-609-4688 (Slauson), or 310-442-2323 (Beverly Hills).

SON OF A GUN

Son of a Gun is a seafood restaurant in Los Angeles offering various dishes, including raw oysters, tuna, mahi-mahi, fish and chips, lobster rolls, seafood pasta, fried chicken sandwiches and baby back ribs. The restaurant is open every day from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant is open for indoor dining, takeout, and delivery (through Doordash and Caviar). Reservations are available from RESY or by calling 323-782-9033.

HELEN’S

Helen’s is a retail wine shop and wine club located within Jon and Vinny’s restaurants offering natural, organic wines from small production vineyards and merchandise such as t-shirts, tote bags, gift boxes and wine chillers. The wines range from under $20 to more than $100 and come from various countries, including Austria, Chile, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the United States. They also come in various styles, including cider, full-body, light-body, medium-body, limited production, natural, organic, and vegan. National wine shipping costs a flat rate of $27 plus $1 per bottle. For more information, contact info@helenswine. com or call 213-280-5218.

COOKBOOK MARKET

Cookbook Market is a natural market offering seasonal produce and curated goods. There are three locations in Echo Park, Highland Park and Larchmont. The Larchmont location also offers a café with various light dishes, including toast, eggs, bacon, pastries, sandwiches, soups, salads, seafood, pasta, wine, and beer. For more information, contact purchasing@cookbookla.com.

TEFERI TAYLOR

TEFERI IS AN Atlanta-based digital content creator with a specialty in streetwear lifestyle content and a passion for sneakers. With over a decade of photography and content creation experience, Teferi brings a unique perspective and skill set to his content creation approach. His work has been featured through major brand channels such as the Nike SNKRS App, Jordan Brand, Hypebeast Style, and many more! Through working with brand partners such as Hat Club, Sprite, NovaMen, Gillette, Lids, BLACKTAILOR, and Private Label NYC, Teferi has established a reputation of attention to detail and professionalism that continues to garner recognition as a leader within the Atlanta content creation space. As a creative, Teferi is committed to incorporating his passion for sneakers and streetwear into delivering quality content that fulfills any brand's marketing needs.

Teferi (@taylormadegq)

THE BLACKSTAGE PODCAST

NATHANAEL DESULME

By Mercer Santos

The Blackstage Podcast may have started during the tumultuous year of 2020, but three years later, their growth has been nothing short of significant. What Forbes described as “a go-to for impactful interviews” the Blackstage Podcast has interviewed the likes of Moses Ingram (Reva Sevander in Disney’s “Obi-Wan Kenobi”) and US Congressman, Adriano Espaillat. Having started Season 6 on Sept. 25, the team behind the podcast is looking to uphold its mission to explore “the past and present culture moment with the top voices of our time.”

Nathanael Desulme, the podcast’s creative director and a native of Queens, N.Y., originally pursued accounting at Queens College before finding a passion for technology and art. Today, he specializes in handling pre-production for the Blackstage Podcast and runs its TikTok page, growing the account from 16 followers to over 14,000 in two months.

The multihyphenate spoke with BLEU about his career, his personal dreams for the future, the family guidance he followed to carve out a path of his own, and more.

Q. Working as creative director of The Blackstage Podcast, what does a typical workday look like?

A. As a creative director every day is different, but it really centers around when we are shooting new episodes. It takes months of preproduction which includes scriptwriting, creating a shot list, location scouting, etc. The night before a shoot I will stay up and memorize the shots planned for that day. The next morning, I’ll wake up early and hit the ground running. I usually have a very specific vision and shots in my head with such a limited timeframe. So, it’s a constant struggle on learning how to navigate your need for absolute perfection and finding a fruitful compromise. Also being cognizant of those who were donating their time and resources to you and your vision.

Q. When did you first join The Blackstage Podcast team?

A. I officially joined The Blackstage in March of 2022. I’ve worked with our fantastically talented executive producer, Karl McIntyre on multiple shoots in the past. And occasionally, he would ask me to assist filming on shoot days when they were on location. After a couple of shoots, Brennan reached out and asked if I wanted to join the team.

Q. How did you first meet the creator, Brennan DuBose?

A. I met our founder Brennan at his birthday party in late 2019. He was looking for a photographer and we had a mutual friend who recommended my services. After finishing the gig, I sent Brennan the final edits the next day and we stayed connected on social media until we met up again in 2022 to film episodes for The Blackstage.

Q. Do you help out with sound engineering?

A. On production days, either Karl or I would monitor the audio when shooting. But he edits the overall episode.

Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration to pursue your current field?

A. My parents and my Haitian identity.

Q. What first ignited your passion to pursue all things photography and video creation?

A. My father and uncle ignited my passion. It’s due to them that I have the privilege of generational knowledge. My parents were largely able to purchase their home, because every weekend for many years my father and uncle would photograph and film weddings ceremonies as a team. I even use the very same camera and lens my father used in his work as my primary photography camera.

Q. Do you have any photography or videography hot takes?

A. My hot take is regarding A.I., on hand we must acknowledge that copyrighted work has been used so A.I. can learn. On the other hand, as professionals, we need to fully embrace what A.I. can do for us and how it can make our workload more efficient. It’ll allows us to focus on the creative instead of wasting energy on minutia.

Q. What other artists inspire/ influence your style of work?

A. Edgar Wright, because his work emphasizes the importance/creativity of transitions, and every shot of a film must be thoroughly thought out. Kahlil Joseph, with his unique depiction of the black bodies and combination of music Petra Collins through her hyper stylized and moody work, you’ll see her work and influence on HBO’s “Euphoria.”

Q. Who is your dream collaboration?

A. Beyoncé.

Q. Your photos of Adrianna Cornish, head of operations of The Blackstage Podcast, were used in an article by Forbes. How does it feel to have your work featured in such a prominent publication?

A. I’m proud that Adrianna was given such a prominent platform to be spotlighted, she’s such a hardworking and driven woman and it was a pleasure to capture her spirit. Personally, I truly feel grateful and honored for the opportunity.

Q. What is your favorite memory working under The Blackstage Podcast?

A. My favorite memory was during the shooting our most recent experimental project for the podcast. It’s a short that Brennan and I wrote together called “Death to A Creative,” starring two phenomenal actors Danielle Summons and Khalil Kain from “Girlfriends.” It was the last day of production and we were filming the very first scene, which was a long take and a monologue. After Danielle finished saying her lines on that first take, the entire set was in complete shock, basically stunned into silence. Because she delivered it perfectly in one take with so much raw emotion, you can truly see her embody the character.

Q. Of all the people your team has interviewed, who was your favorite guest you’ve had on the podcast?

A. My favorite interview was Virginia Lowman. I wasn’t there the day it was shot, but I remember going through the footage and deciding which clips to post on social media. That episode was a conversation about love. The theme is simple at its core, but Virginia gave such an insightful analysis. It gave me the verbiage/tools on how to be more introspective, in not only the affairs of the heart but of life in general. And I think our Blackstage audience agrees as well.

Q. For the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival, were you there under work for The Blackstage Podcast? What was the experience like?

A. I have a deep appreciation for anyone who takes the risk to fund and put your work out there. It tells me that this is a work you fully and passionately believe in. And that’s why I was at Tribeca, I love going to film festivals to find inspiration and support other artists. But I prefer Sundance Film Festival, the entire city goes all out, and everyone is there for one thing. It was there that I met [Director of “Black Panther,”] Winston Duke and [Director of “Blue Beetle”] Angel Manuel Soto.

Q. What’s the story behind you meeting Hasan Minaj?

A. I sometimes get invited to early screenings of upcoming movies, and he happened to be in attendance. At the end of the movie, I went up to him and introduced myself, then we chatted for a bit.

Q. Your Instagram page is filled with plenty of city photography. Do you have any favorite spots in NYC to go and take pictures?

A. That’s an ongoing challenge that I put on myself. I’m a native New Yorker, born and raised, but I don’t really travel outside of what I know and with what I’m comfortable with. I took it upon myself to use this as an experience and chance, to travel around New York and get to know the city that I love. My favorite spot is Fort Totten, in Queens. It’s a rocky beach that has the most amazing view of the Throgs Neck Bridge during golden hour.

Q. What has been your best experience working filmography all around NYC?

A. The fact that it allows me to learn so much about the world in such a random order from experts and leaders in their perspectives fields. From directing numerous live events, recording a conference on future black entrepreneurs, and working with a Grammy winning artist.

Q. In what ways do you feel connected to the Blackstage Podcast’s mission of highlighting cultural black stories? Does

that mission influence your work/photography outside of the Blackstage?

A. As a first-generation child of Haitian immigrants, telling and highlighting Black stories is crucial. Being descended from an island that’s been a key factor in the direct freedom of Latin America and the Caribbean, such as Columbia, Venezuela, Brazil etc. is my inspiration. And I find it heartbreaking that stories like that aren’t told or well-known. That is what allows me to empathize with the mission of the Blackstage. In telling stories of the movers and shakers in the black community we are giving a platform in which of those rich and diverse stories are amplified.

Q. What significant goals do you have set for yourself in the future (personal or career-wise)?

A. My goal is to gather a collective that advocates for untold stories.

Q. What would be a word of advice you would give to passionate photographers and filmmakers looking to achieve the same fruitful success you have?

A. You must do 3 things: Work on your craft constantly, develop/ maintain professional contacts, and advocate for yourself.

TRAVEL BY THE BOOK

CALL YOU WHEN I LAND

By Nikki Vargas

Colombian immigrant Nikki Vargas began traveling in a unique way — by breaking off an engagement to her college sweetheart. Leaving behind a relationship and a promising advertising career at 26, Vargas jetted off into the world and turned her life into something she always dreamed of. “Call You When I Land” is the emotional memoir of a woman who finds herself in the travel pages of newspapers and magazines. It’s a reminder to us all that when you reach out for it, you can end up with the life you’d love to have, even if there are some romantic and career casualties along the way.

SWEET SALONE RECIPES FROM THE HEART OF SIERRA LEONE

By Maria Bradford

This may be a cookbook, but in “Sweet Salone,” author Maria Bradford takes us through a culinary and cultural journey through Sierra Leone in addition to giving us the recipes to recreate the food at home. From street food like morkor (fried green bananas) and pepe chicken (grilled over hot charcoal and served with a spicy sauce) to desserts like rich cake that’s traditionally baked in sand and Bradford’s grandmother’s own fish ball stew for the entree, you’ll get a wide-ranging view of traditional meals in Sierra Leone. Location photography throughout the book pulls you even more into the world of this West African nation.

By Jennifer Billock

VET AT THE END OF THE EARTH ADVENTURES WITH ANIMALS IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

By Jonathan Hollins

For those who have a soft spot for animals, this rollicking tale of what it’s like to be an island veterinarian in the south Atlantic Ocean is just for you. In “Vet at the End of the Earth,” Dr. Jonathan Hollins shares his story of taking care of a 200-year-old giant tortoise, hunting down weird microorganisms, herding reindeer to another location, and all the wild and wonderful activities he encounters in this vast, watery world. It’s just a few of the perks of being the resident vet on the British Overseas Territories islands of the Falklands, St Helena, Tristan da Cunha, and Ascension. The book isn’t just about animals, though; it also shares a nuanced look at all the local communities, their histories, and how they survive without instant access to mainland perks.

AIRPLANE MODE AN IRREVERENT HISTORY OF TRAVEL

By Shahnaz Habib

Travel has a long and complicated past that hasn’t always been so nice to everyone. Even today, we grapple with the questions of who can travel and how racist structures and passports from certain countries can impact traveling. In “Airplane Mode,” Shahnaz Habib dives deep into these topics, entering the conversation through the lens of her childhood in India, her immigration journey to the United States, and the power dynamics she’s encountered with something as simple as a trip to go see her family. It’s half a memoir and half an eye-opening historical account of colonialism and capitalism.

Want to stay undetectable* with fewer medicines?

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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.

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Results may vary.

*Undetectable means reducing the HIV in your blood to very low levels (less than 50 copies per mL).

†Compared to a tenofovir alafenamide–based 3- or 4-drug regimen.

° 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.

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

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler

NEW ORLEANS: HOW TO EXPLORE THE BIG EASY

Welcome to New Orleans, where the spirit of jazz floats through the air like a sultry melody, and the aroma of Creole spices and Cajun cooking dance on every breeze. This Louisiana city is unlike any other in America; it’s a vibrant and resilient place with a soul as deep and rich as its historic legacy that includes French, African, and Spanish influences.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Big Easy is a place where they “laissez les bon temps rouler” (let the good times) roll with year-round parties, including one of the biggest celebrations of all, Mardi Gras. It is also one of the only cities in the U.S. where you

By Becca Blond

can legally walk down the street with an open container and sip on cocktails.

There is so much more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras beads and endless nights out on Bourbon Street. The food scene is equally out of this world as this is the city that made gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, étouffée, char-broiled oysters, and beignets famous across the country. Let’s not forget the live music scene, ghost tours, riverboat cruises, vintage shopping, and so much more.

Check out our guide on how to explore this captivating city in depth.

MARDI GRAS BY PAUL BROUSSARD

WHAT TO DO

The most famous neighborhood in New Orleans is the French Quarter, home to its famed Bourbon Street and numerous other cobbled streets. You will find some of the city’s top restaurants, nightlife venues, and unique shops amid its cobblestone streets and historic buildings with colorful facades.

The French Market, which is an open-air market and food hall with permanent stalls cooking up all sorts of local Creole fare, is also located in this neighborhood. Cooking demonstrations and cultural events also take place here throughout the year.

South and inland of the French Quarter is the Garden District, which is also worth exploring. Wander down streets lined with stately old oaks and past opulent 19th-century mansions that exude old

Southern charm. Magazine Street is the main shopping center with several eateries to choose from.

For organized excursions, travelers can book one of the many tours in the vibrant city. One of the most popular tour options is the New Orleans Ghost Adventures Tour. The city has a reputation for being haunted, and this company runs several tours, including haunted pub craws, Garden District ghost tours, and cemetery tours.

If you’d rather explore the bayous, folks can check out the famed New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours. The most popular adventure is the Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour, which takes you paddling through swamps for about two-and-a-half hours with an enigmatic guide who tells great tales and points out all the wildlife that call the swamplands home from alligators, snakes, wading birds, wild boar and more.

French Quarter Flags by Richard Nowitz

Romantic Bourbon Street by Zack Smith

French Quarter Nightlife by Richard Nowitz

Carousel Bar by Traveling Newlyweds

WHERE TO STAY

One of the most vibe-filled places to sleep is the Virgin Hotel New Orleans. The playful property in the CBD is within walking distance from Bourbon Street and has an elegant, eclectic interior design. Opened in 2021, the hotel attracts a hip, fun crowd that adds to the ambiance of the city.. The rooftop pool area is a scene-stealer that has everything from DJs spinning dance tunes to themed quiz nights when it comes to entertainment. The rooms are design-forward with an Art Deco aesthetic that meets contemporary Southern style. Make sure to grab a bite, or even better, Sunday Brunch, at the Commons Club. The hotel bar and restaurant also offer excellent food and drink.

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, is a completely different style, but it is the place to go to find timeless luxury. It’s located on Canal Street in the French Quarter and housed in a building that dates back to 1908, constructed in the Beaux Arts style. The lobby is a grand affair, with the rooms and suites equaling in elegance. The M Bistro restaurant serves up yummy Louisiana cooking, while the Davenport Lounge is where to go for a cocktail and live Jazz music.

French Quarter

by Paul Broussard

WHERE TO DRINK AND DANCE

New Orleans is considered the birthplace of jazz, and legendary musician Louis Armstrong was born here. Today, the city is home to numerous bars and clubs playing all genres of music, including plenty of jazz.

You can just wander around the French Quarter or Bourbon Street and find dozens upon dozens of watering holes.

Head to the Blue Nile on Frenchman Street, which is one of the city’s top live music streets. The venue showcases everything from jazz to brass bands, funk, and blues. Also, on Frenchman Street is D.B.A, which is a more intimate bar and music venue.

Tipitina’s is another landmark live music venue in Uptown, New Orleans. The rustic, black-and-white tiled warehouse space has been hosting acts since 1977 and is a great place to dance. For something different, check out the Carousel Bar and Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone. The bar is New Orleans’ only rotating bar and has an old-fashioned, merry-go-round design and a creative cocktail menu.

The highly favored Peacock Room, a staple on TikTok, evokes a fun and fanciful, opulent socialite vibe in the Central Business District with plenty of visual eye candy in the form of rich textures and materials. It serves shareable plates, well-crafted cocktails, and there is often live music.

WHERE TO EAT

New Orleans is famous for its oysters, and Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar is our favorite place to find them in the city. The oysters are served in several different options, including raw, char-grilled, Buffalo, and Rockefeller. The restaurant also has an excellent Po’boy, which can be made fried or blackened. There is usually a line out the door to get in, but it’s worth the wait.

Competitor Acme Oyster House is another solid option. People can grab a seat at the counter to watch the oysters shucked while drinking a cold beer. There is a full menu beyond oysters, including a “10 Napkin” roast beef sandwich.

Muriel’s Jackson Square is one of the city’s most famous and haunted restaurants. Located in a 19th-century building on Jackson Square, Muriel’s has old-world elegance, delicious classic Creole fare, and a Sunday jazz brunch that is straight-up heavenly. Ask for a ghostly history tour if you want to know more about its famous residents.

Café du Monde is a New Orleans institution. It has been serving powdered sugar beignets, chicory, and coffee for more than 150 years. You can’t visit NOLA without stopping by this popular location situated on the Mississippi Riverfront.

If you’re not in the mood for Cajun cooking, check out Osteria Lupo on Magazine Street. The restaurant showcases Northern Italian cuisine with a variety of house-made pasta, roasted meats, and vegetables from the wood-fired oven, seafood, and other regional specialties.

The Portuguese Riviera

WHY CASCAIS, PORTUGAL IS THE BEST WELLNESS DESTINATION FOR SOLO TRAVELERS

Once a quaint fishing town, Cascais is a gem of the Portuguese Riviera, just over an hour’s bus ride from Lisbon’s Campo Martires Patria station. What drew me to this city is the balance of culture, beauty, slow living and affordability, making it the perfect destination for wellness solo travelers. International sporting competitions to look forward to in 2024 include the Ironman Triathlon, the Estoril Tennis Open and the highly anticipated, Chefs on Fire food and music “boutique” festival. It is one of Portugal’s most sustainable events, showcasing the city’s dedication to green living and a healthier environment.

I truly enjoyed the essence of slow travel—everything from lounging on the beach and strolling through the historic center, to its legendary fresh seafood. Cascais is all about healthy living and offers multiple solo activities that blend swimming, surfing and cycling. It offers a serene sanctuary for holistic retreats, healthy dining and invigorating sporting events; all grounded in a firm commitment to sustainability.

WHAT TO DO

My favorite beaches included Praia da Conceição, one of Cascais' largest goldensand beaches, located a short 6-minute walk from the Cascais train station. I liked that I could rent paddle boards, bike boats or grab a bite at La Brisa Bar, which serves some amazing seafood (vegetarian-friendly and vegan options available). For my dose of vitamin D, beach bed rentals were available for 20-25€ per day (get there before 10 am to beat the crowds). Praia da Duquesa (just a few steps from Cascais City Centre) is wellmaintained and surrounded by ice cream shops, bars and an absolutely beautiful spot to watch the sunset. I’ll warn you though that the water gets really chilly.

To capture Instagram-worthy shots of popular attractions, head inland from the beach and walk through the beautiful Old Town. Explore Cascais’ lovingly restored fortress and Cidadela Art District; visit the Boca do Inferno (a set of rock formations known as the "mouth of hell"), and climb to the highest point in Cascais at the Santa Marta Lighthouse. The breathtaking panoramic views here do not disappoint (it gets windy at the top, so I would recommend that you bring a light sweater).

WHERE TO STAY

The Hotel Cascais Miragem Health & Spa, a 30-minute drive from Lisbon’s international airport, and 15 minutes from the village of Sintra is definitely my favorite luxury stay in Cascais - ask for a lavish room to indulge in the dreamy view of Estoril and Cascais Bay. You can reach Sintra in 30 minutes by bus, and it only costs 2-4€. The journey in a taxi or an Uber if preferred will take roughly 15 minutes. To relax, head to the water lounge, unwind with some Turkish bath treatments, or dip in the third-floor infinity pool for breathtaking views over the Atlantic.

For a budget-friendly option, consider The Salty Pelican Surf + Yoga Hostel; this surf and yoga hostel offers dorm and private rooms. It’s conveniently located near Monte Estoril train station, which is just a 25-minute ride from Lisbon, and offers yoga, surfing, meditation and stand-up paddleboarding classes.

WHERE TO EAT

A must-try local speciality is octopus. Visit O Pescador Restaurant, where the seafood is sourced from local fishermen. Although there is no bar seating, it’s a great spot for solo travelers who prefer their own space. The seafood paella is my personal favorite. For other options of authentic Portuguese cuisine that won’t break the bank, consider dining at Cantina Clandestina and Nicolau Cascais, where prices typically range from 15-25€.

WHEN TO GO

The ideal time to visit Cascais is May through September when the weather is most favorable, during the spring or early summer, before the peak tourist season.

Purposeful A

Journey

DERRICK HAYES, CEO & FOUNDER OF BIG DAVE’S CHEESESTEAKS ON LATE FATHER'S LEGACY & PAVING THE WAY TO A MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR EMPIRE”

By Truth Hawkins

PHOTOGRAPHER: HARVEY JACKSON

FASHION STYLIST: MICKEY FREEMAN

REPRESENTED BY: THE ONLY AGENCY STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: IAIN MAHAFFEY

" I KEPT SHOOTING MY SHOT WITH MY DREAM AND NEVER GAVE UP "

SUIT ISSUEY MIYAKE

SHIRT COMME DES GARÇONS

SNEAKERS VIVIENNE HU VHNY

JEWELRY DAVID YURMAN

WATCH DAVID YURMAN

hailing from the rough streets of West Philadelphia might seem like the odds were overwhelmingly stacked against astute businessman and philanthropist Derrick Hayes. However, fueled by a dollar and a dream, Hayes, who was motivated by a promise to his late father to escape the streets, transformed a simple gas station eatery into the flourishing multimillion dollar empire known as Big Dave's Cheesesteaks.

Today, Hayes’ cheesesteak restaurant boasts five thriving locations across the Atlanta metropolitan area and is slated to rake in $15-$20 million in sales this year alone. With over 100 applications eagerly awaiting the opportunity to carry the iconic franchise nationwide, the brand's success is palpable. In our latest cover story, Hayes unveils his winning formula while reflecting on the humble beginnings that paved the way for such remarkable growth.

NEW BEGINNINGS

“I'm from West Philly, born and raised. [The cheesesteak] was something I grew up eating as a child. When I moved to the south after my father passed [from lung cancer], I wanted to start over,” began Hayes, speaking of his new beginnings. “I promised him I would get out the streets — wouldn't get in trouble anymore.”

Determined to “break generational curses,” Hayes strategically leveraged his passion for the Philadelphia staple, recognizing it as a powerful "disruptor" in his adopted hometown.

“The first thing that came to mind was to bring something to the south that would be a disruptor,” says Hayes. “That was a cheesesteak. Everybody says they have a cheesesteak, but Philly don't think it's authentic. I wanted to bring something that was authentic outside of the Tri-state area.”

He continues, “I wanted to honor my dad in a big way that made him famous while he was in the ground. And that's exactly what I did.”

A WINNING FORMULA

Recent census data highlights a notable surge in Black-owned businesses across the U.S., totaling over 150,000 Black or AfricanAmerican-owned establishments. These businesses contribute significantly to the economy, generating a monumental $183.3 billion in revenue and sustaining 1.4 million employees. This achievement, undoubtedly substantial, is often credited to the assembly of capable teams. Hayes echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that enlisting the "right people" has been pivotal in scaling his business with ease.

In fact, building a team has proven to be the most demanding aspect. Per Hayes, it requires individuals who share the same vision and passion, and possess a dreamer's mindset. They must embody respect and effectively represent the brand. Although Hayes acknowledges that hiring presented challenges over the years, he successfully curated a dream team. Now, armed with this powerhouse team, he is “ready to take over the world.”

“Once you have a team and a brand that people love, there's nothing failing from that,” adds Hayes.

Another essential component of Hayes’ success is crafting a delectable menu, which Hayes tells Bleu will soon feature his mother’s famed banana pudding. “My mother gave me the recipe — another blessing for the brand to help me grow,” he says. “The brand now has my mother and my father's love on it.”

LEVERAGING EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES

A self-described reformed hustler, Hayes shares how he leans on everyday lessons learned in an environment that as an adolescent, pushed him to “get out there and get it.”

“As an 11-year-old kid, I was selling newspapers, Philadelphia newspapers, and bean pies — shoveling snow, felt rich in the neighborhoods,” he says. In Philly, where we're born to be hustlers, there's no sitting around. Nobody's gonna do anything for you. Nothing's falling in your lap. You gotta go out there and get it.”

“I always had that mentality. That [a hustler’s mindset] is how I make this brand work. A lot of people love the food and all, but consistency is the key. When you are consistent with something — like you keep shooting a basketball, and you never shot a ball. One day, it's going to go in the hoop.”

" ONCE YOU HAVE A TEAM AND A BRAND THAT PEOPLE LOVE, THERE'S NOTHING FAILING FROM THAT. "

JACKET PRADA

SHIRT PRADA

PANTS PRADA

SHOES PRADA

JEWELRY DAVID YURMAN

“I kept shooting my shot with this dream and never gave up,” he says. “My slow days, my frustrating days, my days where nobody clapped for me, I clapped for myself and kept myself motivated.”

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR

Juggling numerous roles, Hayes dives into the intricate art of balancing responsibilities as a business owner, husband, and father. He acknowledges that blurred lines exist but expresses he’s content embracing the multifaceted nature of his identity. “I'm a father. I'm a husband. I'm a community leader, but business doesn't ever leave me. Me and my wife [Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole], get asked, ‘How do we separate the business with love or the family?’ he said.

“I like to use this as an example: If you remember the scene from Gone in 60 Seconds, when they’re about to steal Eleanor [a Ford Mustang] — they [Nicholas Cage, Angelina Jolie] begin talking about all the car parts and start making out. That's how me and my wife are. We feed off of each other's energy,” reveals Hayes, touching on the couple’s dynamic.

“Then I'm mixing up business with my kids. So they understand things while I'm with them. It's a win-win. I don't want them to get ruined by the hard work that me and my wife put out,” he says. “I always want them to appreciate things. I understand they have to have an open heart and always be willing to give to others — just like Christmas; before they open their gifts, we're going to give the homeless gifts. I want them to always understand that giving is important.”

PAYING IT FORWARD

In alignment with this commitment, beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Hayes makes it a priority to give back to the community that molded him. He actively hits the streets, extending assistance to those in need and reinforcing the bond with the community.

“When COVID hit, I gave out over 1000 meals to the neighborhood. People were lined up in their cars,” said Hayes, adding he fed over 40 hospitals, N 95 in hand at the height of the pandemic, on a daily basis. Overall, Hayes believes people want to know who you are at the core. “Sometimes you have to show people who you are as a person versus just promotions. Some stuff has to come from the heart because you want these people to support you just as well as they want your support. So, I show that in any

community I enter. I think that’s the most important part when it comes to building any brand.”

Around the Christmas holiday, Hayes will host an annual event at one of his Atlanta locations, where he’ll give out various goods, including toys, bikes, computers, and much more. “Giving back to the kids is really important. Some of them [the children] come from single-family households. Some of them have to share one toy with five of their siblings and not be able to understand the privilege of Christmas that other kids experience. I want to always be a resource to that problem,” he adds.

THE LESSON:

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

As a 36-year-old Black man without a college degree, Hayes has set out and achieved what many would say is impossible. To that point, he passes along sage words of wisdom to young aspiring business owners — it’s simple! “Get out of your own way. That's really the biggest deal breaker.”

He continued, “We are our biggest critic. We are our biggest failure. We are our biggest everything because we get in our own way when we think too much or let ego get in the way and not ask for help.”

Circling back to assembling the dream team, Hayes reminds us of the power of leaning on others with capabilities beyond our innate skill sets. “Get somebody beside you that's smarter than you, you need to let them lead the way to help you to get to where you're trying to go.”

“Because in business, the ideal goal is to get to the top. And if that's not the goal, then you're wasting time. So for me, I wanted to get to the top, but I wanted to get to the top in a way that was impactful, inspiring, and going to make people want to do the same thing. It wasn't just about financial gain. It was about really motivating people, and paying people in position. When I grow, they grow.”

TRENCH COAT BURBERRY PANTS PRADA

" I'M A FATHER. I'M A HUSBAND. I'M A COMMUNITY LEADER, BUT BUSINESS DOESN'T EVER LEAVE ME."

SHIRT JACKET PRADA PANTS STILL WATER JEWELLERY DAVID YURMAN SNEAKERS NIKE

RAINS SS 24

BRUNCH HARLEM

A NEW RESTAURANT THAT BRINGS SUNDAY BRUNCH SIX DAYS A WEEK

By Eric Charles Munson

Brunch Harlem is a new restaurant in Harlem that is the brainchild of Joseph Bailey and Adriane Ferguson, two entrepreneurs from New York. The restaurant is open six days a week while offering a diverse menu and a homey, cozy atmosphere.

Bailey and Ferguson wanted to create an innovative dining experience that expands upon the traditional idea of Sunday brunch. They believe brunch should be something everyone can enjoy. On August 11, 2023, I spoke with the two co-founders about their creative vision and aspirations for the business.

Munson: What was the creative vision? What inspired you to start Brunch Harlem?

Bailey: So Brunch Harlem has been around for a little over a year. Prior to, the business in its entirety has been around for 17 years. And then last year, Adriane and I came together to create Brunch Harlem, which is the third iteration of the business. The idea came from just my background being in nightlife, curating events through New York City over the last 10-15 years. I am getting a bit older and so is the demographic that I cater toward. So most of my success has come through events and the daytime space, whether it be a day party or a brunch party. I feel like everyone loves brunch. I think that the overall experience of brunch lends itself to having a good time, networking and just good vibes.

Munson: Why specifically brunch? Is it because of the age of the clientele?

Bailey: Not at all. Our clientele is a wide variety. The community has nothing to do with age. My grandmother has been at the restaurant and Adriane’s nephew at 18 months frequents the restaurant often. I

think that, you know, Adriane and I are from two different generations and I think that it’s really cool that we’re able to create an atmosphere that’s welcoming for everyone. I don’t think brunch is limited to any demographic, whether age, sex, religion, we cater to all. It’s a very homey, cozy atmosphere. The cuisine that Adriane said, they’ve been doing brunch for a long time. I think that we’ve created a menu that speaks to and lends itself to good food first and a quality experience.

Munson: Yeah. I’m looking at the website a little bit and seeing all the food that’s on here, it’s quite a variety. Ferguson: Well, that speaks to the fact that one: we’re in New York City. Like Joe said, we cater to a wide variety of people so we have to make sure that we’re able to reach out to all and everyone. Say you’re not a brunch person and you come and you say “Well, I really don’t want pancakes.” You know, you can have a dinner item, you can have pasta, you can have a steak, you can have lamb chops. So it’s not just limited to brunch. We did a very good job in marrying dinner and brunch so that we could be able to appease a larger variety of people.

Joseph Bailey Adriane Ferguson

Munson: So the whole thing was really wanting to create this cozy environment and this diverse clientele?

Ferguson: Well, I think for us, it was more about making an extension of where we were and where we are. In the sense that you’re already at capacity with the four walls that you have. So, we said “Well, how can we take Sunday brunch, because that is a big staple in Harlem, how can we expand that being Sunday and still keep the vibe?” So it’s more about expanding. Basically, we have one space now and we needed to introduce that to other days in the week.

Munson: What were the challenges of opening a new restaurant?

Bailey: I think that there are growing pains with opening any business. It’s figuring out what works, whether it be the food, whether it be the hours, whether it be the staff. Adriane and I came together and learned to speak the same language, working together. I wouldn’t say it’s a challenge, but it’s definitely something that you have to find a groove with. I would say that we found our groove and I’m thankful for some of the growing pains that have gotten us into the groove.

Munson: Obviously this business has only been around for a year, but what future aspirations do you have for this

business? Where do you want to see it go in the future?

Ferugson: Well, I think that the full intent is to grow. That’s why we did the rebranding like Joe said. It’s been around 17 years, but the part of the business needs to be extended beyond what is quote, unquote “happening immediately.” Speaking with Joe, it’s like after a while, you have to do things to make the business move in a direction with the times. Obviously, things are not going to be the same as they were 17 years ago or 10 years ago, even five years ago, for that matter. So you’re always looking to be innovative and move forward. So really the plan is to try to duplicate and move on into different areas in the city or the country.

Bailey: This is our baby and we’re working through the kinks as any person or people would be in our position. Adriane and I, we’ve traveled and done research on other demographics. We have our eye on other areas within New York City and around the country. So we definitely want to expand and replicate this experience so that everyone can have a bit of brunch.

For more information, visit Brunch’s Harlem’s website. Brunch Harlem is located at 271 W 119th St in New York City and can be reached at 212-280-2248.

AMPLIFYING THE CARIBBEAN MARKET

MARIE DRIVEN

PUBLICIST, ENTREPRENEUR, SURVIVOR

By Eric Charles Munson

Marie Theodore, better known as Marie Driven, is a Haitian American publicist and entrepreneur who is the co-founder of communications firm PlaybookMG, the owner of the charity We Fight Back and the co-founder of the event venue Room43. Much of Driven’s business ventures are inspired by her own life’s experiences.

PlaybookMG is a multidisciplinary communications firm that specializes in public relations, digital marketing and commercial production.

Although the firm works with a variety of different brands, Driven originally created PlaybookMG as a way to “amplify the Caribbean market and culture in a mainstream way.”

Driven felt that Caribbean artists really didn’t get the attention they deserved. For example, she noticed how dancehall was a popular genre in nightclubs, but many people didn’t know the name of the songs, let alone the artists.

Her first major client was the Jamaican dancehall artist Mr. Lexx, best known for songs such as “Taxi Fare” and “Cook.” Since then she’s also worked with other artists such as Junior Reid, Mr. Vegas, QQ and Tracee Ellis Ross.

“This was my way of saying my people can be seen, also mainstream,” Driven said. “What I had was the Caribbean sector because I felt like it was one of those situations where they weren’t getting the push that they needed.”

Now PlaybookMG pivoted to specialize more in small business and entrepreneurship.

“Music was where we came from, but obviously we need to step into business, period,” Driven said.

WHEN SURVIVORS FIGHT BACK

We Fight Back is a charity created by Driven in order to help and support victims of domestic violence.

On May 12, 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Driven became a victim of domestic violence.

“We Fight Back comes from the heart,” Driven said. “Long story short, I was with a guy… that day and I’m not giving excuses, but that day became tragic. That was the day I officially became a DV advocate. That day I got knocked out… blood everywhere.”

After that event, all of the confidence Driven ever had “went out the window” and she had to rebuild everything and “re-evaluate everything in her life.” She started working out with a trainer seven days a week.

“As the months progressed, I was like ‘You know what? I want to create an outlet for

domestic violence advocates to actually have a place where they feel comfortable and they can learn to protect themselves,’” Driven said. “So in those three months, I was learning how to box. In those three months, I came out with my own boxing gloves.”

Driven’s brand of boxing gloves is called I Fight Back. She also started a program to teach other women how to box.

Two months later, Driven took a major domestic violence case. The victim was Kristin Evans, the ex-girlfriend of former professional football player Zac Stacy. Various news outlets showed the now infamous footage of Stacy violently assaulting Evans in front of their five-month-old son.

“Me and Kristin hit it off,” Driven said. “I went to Orlando, went to see her lawyer, and from there we were the official PR firm that was on that case. At this point we became close so not only is she my client, but we’re saving other individuals from the situations they’re in.”

“Anybody that needs help or needs help getting away from whatever situation they’re in, that’s how We Fight Back came about,” Driven said. “In order to understand the situation, you either have to be in it or you have to be empathetic and most people are not empathetic. My thing was ‘no judgment’ because I went through it.”

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Driven is also giving back to the community with Room43 and a new classroom education program.

Driven and her sister Cindy Lee co-founded Room43, a new event space in Brooklyn “for the community, by the community.” Room43 is used for weddings and baby showers, but any organization is able

“If any organization or community wants to do something, you come to Room43,” Driven said. “We’ll make sure we give you the best

In October, Driven decided to start a new education program. During the pandemic, many students were struggling as well as their parents. Driven got invited to a lot of Career Day events and learned that the students “really don’t care.”

While pondering the state of affairs, Driven got a “mysterious call” from a school principal telling her they needed her help. The principal told her to create a program that children would be hyped about. Her new program allows students to be in school, but also allows the mentors to come to them. The students can also choose a destination for the programs they want to be in. Ultimately, it would even allow them to get an internship after the program.

“In order to get these kids to care, we have to bring them into our world,” Driven said.

MORE THAN JUST THE BEANS

EZRA COFFEE. A BLEND OF HISTORY AND CULTURE; CONNECTING COMMUNITY, CULTURE AND HISTORY.

By Eric Charles Munson

Jessica Taylor always has had a love of coffee since an early age. She recalls enjoying a hot cup of java with her sister and grandfather while spending time together in Arkansas. Much of what makes Ezra unique in blend and development has been the influence of her sister and their experience trying to find the perfect combination of coffee and additives beyond sugar. “I started to notice my sister had food allergies and so she could not consume milk in her coffee anymore,” Taylor said. “She also had a soy and a nut allergy which also prevented her from having those milkbased additives.”

TAYLOR SPENT A lot of time trying different blends, flavorings and ingredients to maintain the taste and consistency of black coffee. Some of the additives include candy yams and cognac.

This was the start of Ezra Coffee which is all about “connecting community, culture and history over a warm cup of coffee.”

Ezra Coffee is based in Dallas and has six blends, all named after significant events and individuals in “collective American history.” The bags have the names of the events printed on them.

Taylor is an avid history buff and really enjoys telling stories of African Americans, especially during the critical race theory controversy and schools wanting to get rid of African American history.

“I remember my grandfather would drink coffee every morning while he was reading something,” Taylor said. “He was informing himself, he was educating himself.”

SOME OF THE BLENDS INCLUDE:

64th and Tulsa acknowledges two events. 64th represents the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Tulsa references the 1921 massacre in the Greenwood District, also called Black Wall Street, of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Lorde Baldwin references two Black writers and activists, Audre Lorde and James Baldwin. Both Lorde and Baldwin are well-known for their writings about race and social injustice while also being advocates of civil rights.

Le Grand Duc references Eugene Bullard, the first Black fighter pilot during World War I. While living in Paris, Bullard opened up a club called Le Grand Duc where he served cognac to the likes of Louis Armstrong, Josephine Baker and Langston Hughes. With the help of Baker, Bullard’s cognac was eventually marketed and distributed by Hennessy.

“We tell these stories and kind of bridge the gap between people in which we share the stories of African-Americans that are not rooted in adversity, that are not rooted in slavery, and really just highlight the essence of who we are and the progress we’ve made,” adds Taylor.

Taylor studied business in college and also has a background in academia. She worked at both Purdue University and The Ohio State University, focusing on students from low-income areas and marginalized communities.At Purdue, Taylor was the assistant director of retention and diversity. At Ohio State, she was the program coordinator for the Young Scholars Program.

“While I was [working at the universities], I noticed that there were a lot of students who would come to school, but they would leave school because they didn’t have the funds to continue going forward,” Taylor said. The company was created with social impact in mind. A portion of the proceeds sends students back to college. The name Ezra translated from Hebrew as “he who helps.”

Taylor wanted to make an impact at the collegiate level. Ezra Coffee helps provide scholarships to students attending various universities, every year for up to $1,000. Ezra primarily uses the scholarship money to cover gap funding including financial holds

“We do the sophomore, junior and senior levels because typically that’s where you see the heart, where there’s a deficit in funding,”

This year, Ezra Coffee provided scholarships for students attending several historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) including Alabama State University, Howard University and Southern

The coffee ranges from $19-$22 per bag. For more information visit Ezra’s website: www.ezracoffeeco.com.

ALOS ANGELES ROOM & BOARD

L.A. NONPROFIT HOUSING PROGRAM AIMS TO COMBAT COLLEGE STUDENT HOMELESSNESS

s the doors of the Los Angeles Room and Board’s newest housing project opened earlier this year, the doors for a path toward academic success also opened for the 40 college students moving in.

The new facility named Durhamis provides students experiencing homelessness with nutritious meals and cooking classes, tutoring, academic coaching, career development, and, most importantly, a stable roof over their heads. This new expansion is aiding in furthering the organization’s mission to provide affordable transitional housing designed to end homelessness and promote the completion of their college degree programs.

“It’s hard to make it in L.A., but we are doing what we can to support them,” Sam Prater told NBC 4 News during the opening of the residential living and learning community.

However, this new lifeline comes at a crucial time as homelessness rates continue to become a problem throughout the country. The housing and affordability crisis is now threatening many college students in California.

Statewide statistics show nearly 5% of University of California students, 10% of California State University students, and 20% of California community college students have reported being homeless

By Nicholas Hernandez

or have insecure housing throughout their time at their respective schools, making the solutions of the Los Angeles Room and Board more critical than ever.

Their unique business model often relies on leasing previously vacant spaces on campus or unoccupied campus adjacent facilities. For instance, the Opportunity House originally served as home for dozens of sorority sisters but turned into a sanctuary for homeless students when Sam Prater, the founder and executive director of the Opportunity House, launched the facility in 2020. Before, the historically vacant property used to serve as a transitional hostel for Japanese-Americans after they were released from internment camps in the mid-1940s. Now, nearly 70 years later, the building continues to remain a haven for all who enter.

“My life has definitely changed because of my dedication and commitment to my own life,” resident Despues Green told NBC 4 News in March. “It created a platform for me to continue to work from and grow.”

Astudy done in 2022 by the John Burton Advocates for Youth showed a connection between housing insecurity and academic outcomes. Those experiencing homelessness faced an 8 to 12 percent reduction in obtaining a degree or enrolling in school. Those students

" I want to continue building these communities and impacting the lives of these students so they can have an opportunity to succeed like I have."

also found themselves receiving a lower grade point average.

Before attending Central Michigan University, Prater, a Detroit native and one of 12 children, faced academic hardships such as failing out of high school classes, which led to him earning his GED and enrolling in community college. But, his determination to succeed led him to pursue an education at Central Michigan. Prater was an active student leader and resident assistant who quickly became a vocal advocate for ending homelessness and promoting college completion.

Soon after obtaining his master’s and doctorate degrees, a career switch would lead Prater to be heavily involved in solving the crisis amongst at-risk college students. Prater founded the nonprofit in 2019 with the hopes of creating a safe and supportive environment for community college students. A free temporary stay is offered to the students for a limited time, before the offer is sold at a reduced room and board rate.

With over a decade of experience in higher education and a career centered on housing and residential education, Prater’s passion for fostering success continues to grow. While relying on donations to help assist with programming for educational workshops and mentorships, operations, equipment and administrative costs, the nonprofit also

collaborates with partners in Los Angeles. Some of those partnerships include Shower of Hope, which provides mobile showers and services, and Raise the Barr, an organization dedicated to increasing the economic mobility for single-parent students.

Other donations, partnerships, and sponsorships with organizations such as the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Community College District has helped the growth of the nonprofit. All applicants interested in housing must be 18-24 years old and attend a college or trade school in Los Angeles, but with limited space, spots fill up quickly. Fortunately, with the opening of another facility called the Excelsior House in the East Hollywood neighborhood, more spots will open.

The possibilities are endless for Prater as he strives to combat the student homelessness crisis. In a 2021 interview with his alma mater, Prater said he hopes to expand the program to Detroit, finding the need to help students in all places.

“There are students in need everywhere,” Prater said in the interview. “I want to continue building these communities and impacting the lives of these students so they can have an opportunity to succeed like I have.”

MELANIN PUNK

THE NYC-BASED HIP-HOP AND ALT-ROCK BAND IS INCREASINGLY CRAFTING THEIR UNIQUE SOUND WITH EACH NEW RELEASE.

By DJ Chalant

THE OXYMORRONS may be one of the most trailblazing groups in today’s music landscape. The New York City-based band has made a name for themselves by effectively fusing two musical sounds electrifyingly; blending the lyrical prowess of Hip Hop, with the raw emotive energy of Rock. I spoke with the group weeks before the release of their latest project “Melanin Punk”, to discuss their new music, inspirations, and how they overcome misconceptions and stereotypes in the music industry.

" WE’RE NONCONFORMISTS. WE HAVE NEVER BEEN HERE TO DO WHAT MUSIC WORKS FOR OTHER PEOPLE."

DJ Chalant: The video for ''Look Alive" looks like it was such a dope vibe. Can you talk to me more about what it was like on set?

Oxymorrons: To start, it was one of the hottest days of the summer (laughs). So, the lyrics of the song were more than true. “Block is hot, summertime in a sweater,” was absolutely no joke. We pulled up with a bunch of homies to one of our favorite skate parks in the LES and shot it guerilla-style. In pure NYC fashion, no permits and no fucks were given.

DJ Chalant: Your upcoming debut album "Melanin Punk" is releasing soon. Can you explain what the term Melanin Punk means to you?

Oxymorrons: Melanin Punk is honoring the original architects of rock who often get overlooked for the credits they deserve. Simultaneously, it includes every race, color, and creed that has helped rock evolve to where it is today. Scientifically, every single person alive has melanin in them. This is the intersection of where science and art collide.

DJ Chalant: Question for K.I. & Dee specifically, how did you execute your unique sound and vision, before the additions of Matty Mayz and Jafé Paulino?

Oxymorrons: The Oxymorrons ethos has always been a hybrid of rap, rock, and anything else we felt like. Regardless of any past or present members, our unique sound is the product of that ethos. This question is off-putting to us because, in many situations, there is an attempt to separate the rock and rap qualities of this band and give them to specific members. When in actuality, you can get guitar riffs and drums from K.I. or Dee, or bars from Matty and Jafé. So, the unique sound was always created regardless of who was in the scenario. This separation fuels the misconception that rock musicians are more talented than hip-hop rappers and producers.

DJ Chalant: Knowing you were facing biases about what your music "should' sound like, what kept you motivated to stay the course and define your unique sound?

Oxymorrons: We’re nonconformists. We have never been here to do what music works for other people. There is always resistance when you are creating something unique. Every artist we have looked up to has had hardships and biases. Even though we are influenced by a myriad of artists and bands, we never wanted to be any other band. Being unapologetically ourselves has always kept us motivated.

DJ Chalant: How did the band form?

Oxymorrons: Once upon a time, three pairs of people eloped, did the deed, and created 4 assholes who didn’t believe in genres. After getting drunk at several NYC bars, they stumbled upon each other, found out they all played music, and screamed “Did we just become best friends!?” Thus, Oxymorrons.

DJ Chalant: You stated before that, you all were considered too hip-hop for rock and too rock for hiphop, and that if people knew the history; they would know where it came from. Who were some of your musical inspirations that motivated you to blend these sounds?

Oxymorrons: N.E.R.D, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Rage Against the Machine, Linkin Park, and Outkast to name a few. Due to whitewashing, rock in Black culture is considered "White music," when in actuality, its origins are Black. Regarding addressing "too hip-hop for rock", hip-hop in the rock world is perceived as a lower art form and gains less respect. So many legendary rock bands rap in their music; the only difference between them and us is our skin tones. It's considered "low frequency" music when we do it, but innovative when they do it.

DJ Chalant: Are there any new singles or videos in the works to support the project?

Oxymorrons: You will be getting some awesome visuals to support the album. “Moon Chasers” will be released in conjunction with the album, and will be going to alternative radio.

DJ Chalant: Your live shows are often described as energetic; what exactly can fans expect when attending an Oxymorrons show?

Oxymorrons: Spin kicks, leg strikes, and hip thrusts. Rock and Roll capoeira!

UNCHAINED CALBOY CALBOY CALBOY

THROUGH RESILIENCE AND HUSTLE, CALBOY ROSE FROM THE STREETS OF CHICAGO’S SOUTHSIDE TO MODERN HIP-HOP STARDOM.

By DJ Chalant

In the heart of Chicago's historically troubled Southside, where the streets are echoed with the harsh realities of gangs, crime, and violence, a young artist named Calboy emerged from within, using music not only as a means of expression but as another chance at prosperity. Calvin "Calboy" Woods has navigated through the war zone of his impoverished neighborhood, weaving a narrative that resonates beyond the streets and reached global audiences with an impressive catalog that has garnered over 2 billion streams.

Calboy's journey from a kid growing up in the troubled streets of Chicago to becoming a rap sensation is a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to his craft. His latest album, "Unchained," serves as both a reflection of his battles and a declaration of independence. After achieving several milestones, such as a spot on the coveted XXL Freshman Class Cover in 2020 and Billboard Hot 100 chart placements, Calboy steps into a new era as he has broken free from RCA Records and dropped his first independent project under Loyalty N Company.

"Unchained," a 12-song collection, delves into the 24-year-old's life, chronicling his public and private struggles. It's a sonic journey that explores the multifaceted aspects of Calboy's existence, from artistic freedom to lingering grief and feuds within the music industry. The album's lead single, "On My Own," serves as a resurgence track, where Calboy reflects on his journey of balancing

demons and embracing divinity in a rapid-fire flow over booming 808s. The cinematic visuals reinforce Calboy's allegiance to his crew and highlight his visionary spirit outside the major label machine.

Calboy’s decision to go independent is no surprise, as his entrepreneurial spirit was evident since the beginning of his journey. In high school, he strategically harnessed the support of his classmates by turning them into a marketing force for his music. Stickers and posters of Calboy’s logos filled the hallways of his school while he would watch countless

minutes of YouTube University, learning creative and business skills that would help him further his career.

With the release of "Unchained," Calboy is now standing as a symbol of unyielding resilience, breaking free from the chains that bound him and forging his path in the hip-hop landscape. As he continues to build his empire and feed the streets with his authenticity, Calboy's journey remains an inspiration for those who believe in the power of believing in oneself and never giving up, no matter the challenges that come their way.

FREE OUR HAIR

THE OVER-POLICING OF BLACK PEOPLE’S HAIR

By E. Osborne

Okay, so you’re a Black female judge, and you decide one day to change your hairstyle, to one featuring shaved sides yet uncut on top. One day in 2019, you arrive at your courtroom rocking your new “do.” However, in a curious instance of role reversal, instead of the focus being on the defendant in the high-profile case, it’s on you. Throughout the day, people react by sending you emails and taking to Facebook to criticize you for your new hairstyle, using terms such as “ghetto” among others.

The object of the criticism in the scenario above was Dallas County (Texas) Judge Amber Givens-Davis, who later decried the criticisms of her hairstyle choice as overreach. As she explained in an interview with a local news outlet, “Black hair has been so politicized! My hairstyle is the way I decide to express myself. It’s absurd to think that I need to mask myself to be deemed acceptable. It’s crazy! Why in the world would I subscribe to Eurocentric beauty standards when I’m of African descent?”

WHY, INDEED.

The reality though, is that dress codes implemented in workplaces and in school settings across the nation effectively police Black people’s ability to exercise their free will; by banning the wearing of cornrows, dreadlocks, braids, and other hairstyles that bespeak ties to Africa. For example, in 2010, an Alabama woman’s job offer at a Mobile call center was rescinded because she refused to cut her dreadlocks. In 2017, twin sisters from a school in Massachusetts had to serve

detention because of their braids; and finally in New Jersey in 2018, a White referee told a teenage wrestler that he would end up forfeiting the match, unless he cut his dreadlocks.

Mind you, such reactions to the way Blacks wear their hair are hardly new. Indeed, Whites have sought to deny Black people agency over their appearance and grooming from day one of their arrival on these shores. As Ayana Byrd and Lori Tharps point out in Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America (2014: 10), one of the first things the slave traders did to their captives was to shave off their hair. Besides being a grave indignity, the involuntary shaving of the heads of the now thoroughly humiliated captives served to sever the last cultural connection to their homeland, where one’s hairstyle could signal, among other things, family background, social status, ethnic affiliation, and marital status.

STRIVING TO MEET THE “STANDARD”

Flash forward to the early 20th century, when a number of Black people began to adopt various ways to change the texture of their hair in an attempt to approximate the Eurocentric standards of beauty. Women, for their part, did this by heating a metal straightening comb on a stovetop and passing it through their hair or that of another. During my childhood in Georgia, hair-straightening rituals were a regular feature of life for females. To this day I still can smell the scent of burning hair as the hot comb made its way through tangled tresses. As I recall, the resulting straight hair came at a price. The woman or girl who was having her hair straightened had to sit perfectly still, because any sudden move or a slip of the hand by the hair straightener usually resulted in a painful burn.

systems soon found their way to the heads of Ice Cube, Lionel Richie, Rick James, Keenen Ivory Wayans, and countless others in the entertainment industry.

THE MONETARY AND HEALTH PRICE BEING PAID

As evidenced by the proliferation of businesses selling hair-care products in African-American communities, Black people spend big bucks on products needed to maintain various processed hairstyles and weaves. The thing is that few of these businesses tend to be owned by Blacks, so the moolah spent isn’t circulated within their communities but rather goes elsewhere. Another downside to the wearing of processed hair, is that certain elements of the chemicals used in treating the hair can be harmful. To my mind, these drawbacks are all the more reason to do away with, or at least minimize, the bans on wearing natural hairstyles in the workplace, in school settings, and in other public and private spaces.

Fortunately, a piece of legislation that would bring about such change already is in the works. It’s called the Crown Act (an acronym for Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair). Passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on March 18, 2022, it prohibits hair-based discrimination in the workplace, in schools, and elsewhere. To date, more than 20 states have enacted versions of the Crown Act, among them New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, California, Colorado, New Jersey, Washington, Illinois, Maryland, Texas, and Arkansas.

" YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU’LL INSPIRE JUST BY BEING YOURSELF. "

Women were hardly alone in altering their hair. Men did so too, often by subjecting their hair to chemical treatments. One such treatment was called ‘The Conk’, a hairstyle popular from the 1920s to the mid-1960s. The Conk involved applying a chemical solution to the hair, which resulted in the hair having a straightened, shiny appearance. I don’t see many people with conks these days, but once upon a time it was on countless heads; particularly those of entertainers such as Little Richard, Chuck Berry, James Brown, Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley, Ike Turner, Cab Calloway, Fats Domino, Louis Jordan, and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Although processed hairstyles declined in popularity during the Black Pride movement of the 1960s, when activists, artists, and performers began sporting the Afro as a symbol of newfound pride of ancestry, the trend returned with a vengeance in the 1980s. This time it was the Jheri Curl (named after its inventor Jheri Redding), an oily, loosely curled style, and the Curly Kit, which Comer Cottrell adapted from the Jheri Curl. Like the conk of past times, these permanent wave

The day that the Crown Act becomes the law of the land will be a joyous one, particularly for African Americans, who have long been penalized for wearing hairstyles that some in the dominant society have deemed either unprofessional, unsightly, unsettling, or unconventional – or all of the above. Judge GivensDavis recounts her own experiences: “I had been told on several occasions that I needed to ‘tame’ my hair. I didn’t correlate the word until I got into the legal profession and realized what the message really was: that if you relax your hair, you keep everybody around you relaxed.”

She continues: “When you have the freedom to express your true nature, you give strangers – people whom you’ll never meet face to face – the strength to be themselves.The faith that they, too, can refuse to play the role that society has assigned them: that they are somehow less than others. So that’s the lesson I like to teach. You never know who you’ll inspire just by being yourself.”

Indeed. Once African Americans can wear the hairstyles of their choosing – without fear of being denied employment, fired, or otherwise sanctioned –then they will be a bit closer to extricating themselves from the current state of semi-freedom, and another step closer to complete freedom. After all, freedom is absolute.

AFROBEATS STAR BELLA SHMURDA

UNDERSTANDS WHY HE IS THE NEW VOICE OF THE STREET

By Dominique M. Carson

When an artist decides to be independent in the music industry, they usually weigh all options to see if this is the best move. There are many to consider when you’re an independent artist, such as costs, distribution, or music direction. But it has been a rewarding and incredible journey for award-winning Nigerian musician, singer, and songwriter Bella Shmurda.

In less than 12 months, Shmurda garnered over 250 million streams for his debut album, Hypertension, and featured hit singles, “New Born Fela,” “Contraband,” and “Philo.” He also received 70 million streams for his new EP, “DND.” The numbers indicate his love for music is presented on his records, and he has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

“DND,” also known as Do Not Disturb, is an EP that presented his plausible approach about not being disturbed in 2023 and not taking his attention away from making groundbreaking music. It was important for Shmburda to “do him” without any disturbances. The recording process differed from his album, Hypertension because he was eager to give listeners a new Shmurda without compromise and was ready to complete the trilogy of the tensions.

“Hypertension lol….I think that’s the last of the tensions. I actually just decided to finish up the tension sequence, from the first EP, “High Tensions,” to the second EP, “High Tension 2.0,” and based on these two, I decided on Hypertension” for the album,” said Shmurda.

Shmurda and rapper Lil Kesh collaborated on the title track after Kesh sent him the song. Kesh asked Shmurda if he could put a verse and chorus on the record. Shmurda listened to the music, and his words were, “Broski! I think I like this song personally.” The two artists signed off on the record and dropped “DND.”

“Rewardbeatz crafted the instrumental and recorded a demo in the studio with Lil Kesh. Kesh then sent the draft to me to check it out and see if I liked the track,” said Shmurda.” I listened to it and immediately started recording what I was feeling at the moment, and that’s how “DND” was born. The song perfectly captures my current headspace, where I don’t want to be disturbed while I do things my way.”

But music has always been a part of Shmurda’s life since he was in grammar school. Shmurda launched his moniker by coining out his government name, Abiola, and added Shmurda because he was a huge fan of Bobby Shmurda.

His love for music blossomed in his adolescent years, and although Shmurda’s mother had other plans in the works for him, he was determined to explore the endless possibilities for music. Shmurda didn’t have a problem honoring his African roots from musical composition to branding to style and will gladly declare that he is African. However, it was Lagos State University that helped him develop his sound.

“LASU (Lagos State University) did everything that my African roots did for me to have a professional career in music. My time in LASU and my African roots go hand in hand in creating the Bella Shmurda you see today,” said Shmurda.

Shmurda’s fingers remain crossed about his upcoming endeavors, but he knows he is just getting started in the music business. Shmurda is three years in, but he’s received various accolades, including Global Music Awards Africa recipient, Headies Award nominee, second most streamed African artist on Audiomack, and is notable on multiple media outlets: CNN, Variety, MTV, and the BBC.

He states that he will continue to impact a sizable number of people with his music at sold-out tours across Africa, Europe, and the United States while facing the highs and lows of a recording artist.

“There have been so many highs and lows. I can’t even point to one in particular…. But I’m grateful for what’s coming! More highs and few lows,” said Shmurda.

Randolph x BROOKLYN CIRCUS

RANDOLPH COLLABORATES WITH THE BROOKLYN CIRCUS TO CREATE A MEMORABLE HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE

Randolph partners with The Brooklyn Circus to reintroduce the impact of Haitian pilots on America. Honoring their legacy through the new line of apparel and accessories.

Randolph, an independently owned eyewear company, has opened the curtains for their newest homage to Haitian pilots in time for Veterans Day. The brand has partnered with The Brooklyn Circus for a collaboration tailored to men taking their inspiration directly from the fruitful narratives within history. With a rooted tie to culture, The Brooklyn Circus partially steps away from its clothingoriented pieces to tell a story through glasses alongside their usual pieces, such as jackets and other accessories.

Ouigi Theodore, founder and Haitian-born creative director of The Brooklyn Circus, shares the emotional and personal connection of Haitian pilots who were a part of the Tuskegee Airmen and served in the United States Army during World War II. The pilots, hidden with history, are exemplified by the collaboration alongside striking styles that host themes of courage and prosperity. The Brooklyn Circus varsity jacket, a warm brown bomber jacket with undertones of cream and orange, is a homage to the pilots with a patch.

The propellers and wings tie in the piece while keeping its hospitality alongside the historical connection. The Randolph P-51 glasses allow

By Hassan Wiggins

for a subtle fancy feel, coming in different sleek colors such as black, light brown, and gray. The lens changes as well with different colored tints in the same color wave. The arms of the glasses hold a calming engraving of clouds, symbolizing flight and the freedom held within the glasses.

Randolph and The Brooklyn Circus allow their pieces to clutch the truth of history whilst allowing a calm feeling. Each piece welcomes its wearer while allowing the person to embellish in honor of historical accomplishments. This release also stores aviators that resemble a flight goggle design coming in the same colors, alongside olive green. A scarf, in only a color scheme of black and white, compliments the other pieces beautifully.

The racial discrimination faced by the Haitian pilots during the dreadful World War II wasn’t an easy task, but their rigor and armored structure allowed them to disperse adversity and become heroes of the world. In honor of their relentless fight, physically and mentally, the Randolph collaboration with The Brooklyn Circus offers another chance for our icons to reinvent their strength through this calm but focused style of apparel. Offering a similar feeling to anyone who wears these glasses, jacket, or scarf and allowing them to attach these qualities to themselves.

Motivational Speakers

Les Brown

David Goggins

Chris Gardener

Bishop T.D. Jakes

Will Packer

Ally Love

Daymond John

Simon T. Bailey

Eric Thomas

Iyanla Vanzant

Oprah Winfrey

Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Devon Harris

Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour

Michael Oher

Ryan Harris

Julius Erving

Cassandra Worthy

Taylor Bennett

Mk Palmore

Lee Rubin

Deion Sanders

Jade Simmons

Natalie Fikes

Dr. Kevin Ahmaad Jenkins

Brian Banks

Yemi Penn

Sheri Riley

Dr. Saundra Dalton- Smith

JJ Birden

Jeanne Celestine Lakin

Desmond Clark

John Bul Dau

Rick Rigsby

Prince Ea

Crystal Washington

Rennie Curran

John Henry

Janice Bryant Howroyd

Dr. Adolph Brown

Willie Womack

Lex Gillette

Anthony Trucks

Cobi Jones

David Ortiz

Micheal Johnson

Doreen Rainey

Laila Ali

Inquoris “Inky” Johnson

Colonel Greg Gadson

Joseph Mcclendon III

Darren Woodson

Kinja Dixon

Sampson Davis

Dave Winfield

Francine Ward

Courtney B. Vance

Lisa Nichols

Sarano Kelley

Christopher Gardner

Coach Ken Carter

Walter Bond

Eric Boles

Kaplan Mobray

Dominique Dawes

Charles Barkley

Justin Forsett

Barry Sanders

Patricia Russell- Mccloud J.D

Richard Sherman

Vera Jones

Andre Norman

Taylor Bennett

Deborah Archer

Bakari Sellers

COOLIO’S

COOLIO’S FANTASTIC VOYAGE

By Evan Majors

IN 1994, HIP-HOP was stuck between the “keeping it real” ethos and entering a shiny suit era birthed on the East Coast, But along came Artis Leon Ivey, Jr. from Compton, CA, who would soon be known to the world as Coolio. The rapper changed hip-hop with his signature spiked braids and West Coast G-funk bounce sound, injecting rap with some much-needed fun and energetic party vibe with his single “Fantastic Voyage.”

Coolio emerged on the scene like a superhero with no cape, captivating audiences with his then-unique melodic rap style. He stood on originality, creating a lane of his own during a time when the hip-hop genre embraced originality.

Before stepping onto the scene in the mid1990s, Coolio recorded his first single titled “Whatcha Gonna Do?” in 1987 and by the early 90s, he joined the West Coast group WC and the Maad Circle, led by rapper WC. Coolio was credited co-contributor on the group’s debut album Ain’t a Damn Thang Changed, however his solo career propelled him into the spotligh Coolio’s accomplishments in music and pop culture will never be repeated; make no mistake, Coolio will always and forever be an icon, above and beyond the realm of hip-hop culture. Coolio is one of the pioneers of hip-hop who took rap music global and “mainstream,” a term hip-hop purists loathed at the time.

In 1995, Coolio released “Gangsta’s Paradise,” featuring R&B singer L.V. for the film “Dangerous Minds” that not only spoke to the struggles and triumphs of the inner city but also a song of hope and resilience, inspiring young people to overcome even the harshest of circumstances. Today, in the age of social media, “Gangsta’s Paradise” has now amassed over 1 billion streams on YouTube.

It became one of the most successful rap songs of all time and was the highest-selling single of 1995 on the Billboard charts. It was also the top selling single in 1995 in the United States across all genres of music. In addition, it was a global hit in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, and New Zealand, among several other countries, proving its message resonated cross-culturally despite the song’s harsh and gritty lyrics. The single peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot R&B/ Hip-Hop Singles chart, sold one million copies domestically and was certified platinum, a true masterpiece of rap music. In 1996, Coolio won an American Music Award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist and the Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance with “Gangsta’s Paradise.”. In 2008, the song was ranked No. 38 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Songs of Hip-Hop” list. Coolio would win five awards and fourteen nominations throughout his career. There was something about Coolio everyone loved, which was his affable, regular guy persona that resonated with even the most out-of-touch rap fans. From the big screen to the small screen, Coolio extended his reach outside of music, appearing in several movies like Batman & Robin, Daredevil and Dracula 3000 and TV shows, including his hit reality TV show Coolio’s Rules in 2008.He even authored a cookbook in 2009 titled Cookin with Coolio: 5 Star Meals at a 1 Star Price.

Coolio has sold 4.8 million albums in the U.S., according to Luminate a feat even by today’s music standards. It’s been said that a man is not judged or defined by his mistakes, and though the world lost Coolio on September 28, 2022, from an accidental drug overdose, Coolio was able to capture the imaginations of millions of devoted fans worldwide.

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