Issue 98 Turbo

TURBO

TURBO’S PLAYBOOK

Photography by L10

Fashion by MARY FRANCIS

Publisher

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Managing Editors

Antheny Raiy, Justin Wallace

Editor

Chris Law

Contributing Editor-At-Large

Kent Olden

Creative Director

Andrew Zaeh

Art Direction

Aspasia Bouzakis

Fashion Market Director

Chris Sanford

Deputy Editor

Gary Dickson

Contributing Editor

Chevy Wolf

West Coast Fashion Editor

Apuje Kalu

UK Fashion Editor

Sean Azeez

Social Media Strategist

Livingston Steele

Copy Editors

Mark Elibert, Tammy Black

Videographers

Dante Williams, Anthony “Bubba” Gutierrez, AJ Pie

Contributing Writers

Kirby Carroll, Pretty Honore, Hassan Wiggins, Dr. Dominique Carson, Catherine McGrath, Becca Bond, Serena Carter, Jennifer Bullock, Anna Kim, Simone Harvin

Contributing Photographers

Owen Duckett, Jackie Taylor Jr.

Intern Luis Cerda THE

Chairman, CEO & President

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Digital Ad Sales & Partnerships

Michael Gifis advertise@bleulife.com

Print AD Sales

Todd Evans

Rivendell Media

908.232.2021

Web Engineer

Muhammad Azeem

East Coast Partnerships & Ecommerce

Justin Wallace

West Coast Partnerships & Special Projects

Antheny Raiy

Licenses & Joint Ventures

David DeGraff

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

Brand Ambassadors

Rannon Harris (Chicago-Midwest) LeRoy Williams (New York- Northeast)

Newsstand Distribution TNG

1955 Lake Park Drive, Ste 400 Smyrna, GA 30080

Submissions

Bleu Magazine 41 Broadway 17th Floor New York, NY 10004 info@bleulife.com

Dearlybeloved

Wearegatheredheretoday

Togetthroughthisthingcalledlife

Electric word life

Itmeansforever,andthat’samightylongtime

ButI’mheretotellyou

There’ssomethingelse

The afterworld

Aworldofnever-endinghappiness

Youcanalwaysseethesun,dayornight

SowhenyoucallupthatshrinkinBeverlyHills

Youknowtheone,Dr.Everything'llBeAlright

Insteadofaskinghimhowmuchofyourtimeisleft

Askhimhowmuchofyourmind,baby

‘Cause in this life

Thingsaremuchharderthanintheafterworld

In this life

You’reonyourown

Andiftheelevatortriestobringyoudown

Gocrazy-punchahigherfloor

LET’S GO CRAZY PRINCE AND THE REVOLUTION

The world has gone mad! Lol! The craziest, most unimaginable things one could think of are literally happening before our collective eyes. Crazy is such a provocative word. There’s this assumed litmus test that says things should be done this way. But, who’s to say the way things were isn’t the way they should be?

What if we have been wrong all along? Everyone has been living a lie that they could no longer sustain. True colors are shining through. So I say, f$%k it! Usually, this time of year signifies an end. I say, let’s pump up the volume and get the party started. If there are things that you put on the back burner, restart them now. If there are people you should have cut off sooner, go on and erase their number now. Do all the things you thought it was too late to do.

Donald Trump is literally president again. There are no more rules of normalcy. Buckle up and drive in a fast car. Do all the things. See all the places. Try new experiences. The party is just getting started. Go crazy! Unless you already are. In that case, go crazier!

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

BUBBA GUTIERREZ

Bubba Gutierrez is a Los Angeles-based photographer with an eye for capturing the raw moments of city life. Grateful to work in a field that lets them blend art and storytelling, they specialize in portrait, lifestyle, and commercial photography, using the city's energy to fuel their creativity. Always looking to push boundaries, they bring a fresh, urban perspective to every shot.

DR. DOMINIQUE M. CARSON

Dr. Dominique M. Carson is a freelance journalist, researcher, licensed massage practitioner, and author. Carson's work has been featured in several publications, including Ebony.com, The Grio, NBC News, Singersroom.com, Soultrain.com, Education Update, and Brooklyn news media outlets. She interviewed over 100 notable figures in entertainment such as Charlie Wilson, Regina Belle, Patti Labelle, Kirk Franklin, and many more. Carson's overall goal is to facilitate people's lives with her hands and words.

DANTE WILLIAMS

Dante is a New York based (Buffalo) all-around creative who specializes in video production and fashion photography. Dante’s interest for music, art, and fashion were always prevalent throughout his life. Once his basketball career concluded, and he received his bachelor's degree, Dante began to pursue a career in media. In the process Dante has established his own production company; Beyond Prolific Productions. Has helped create arguably Buffalo’s most respected media platform for creatives and entrepreneurs; No Label The Podcast. As well as being a consistent contributor on Bleu Magazines content production team. One of Dante’s goals is to help bridge the gap between the art and entertainment industries of Buffalo, NY and the boroughs of New York City.

LIVINGSTON STEELE

Livingston Steele, a Newark native, is a multifaceted creative force renowned for his work in film and the arts. A graduate of the University of New Haven with a degree in Music Business and a minor in TV and Film, Livingston honed his skills at distinguished institutions such as BET Music Matters and Legend Factory, fostering a deep understanding of music marketing, and branding for independent artists.

As the founder of Artillery Creative Cannon and the visionary force behind the renowned Brick City Jam Festival, Livingston has solidified his commitment to showcasing Newark’s rich cultural heritage. His efforts, in collaboration with Rorschach Mural Collective and the Brick City Jam Sessions, have elevated the local arts scene, providing a platform for emerging talents in music, visual arts, and performance art.

NINO REYES

Nino Reyes is a journalist and a marketer with a heavy focus on media operations. She has worked with many major international brands like American Express, MusicXclusives, The Walt Disney Company, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, No7 Beauty, MediaCom, and Universal McCann. She has captured many iconic journalistic moments in her career like her interviews with Bobby Brown, Dapper Dan, Ja Rule, Patientce Foster, Pop Smoke, and her iconic story on the God Father of Black Cinema, Melvin Van Peebles.

CARIBBEAN MUSIC AWARDS

Unforgettable performances showcasing the powerhouse 'Voices of the Caribbean' artists from Teejay, Morgan Heritage, Christopher Martin, Tosh Alexander, and more cement the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards as Caribbean music's biggest night for an electrifying second annual event at Brooklyn's Kings Theatre.

INVEST FEST

Reform Alliance hosted a series of panels at Earn Your Leisure’s Investfest in Atlanta, held at the Georgia World Congress Center. There were over 20,000 attendees, including a star-studded guest list with Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Shark Tank’s Daymond John, Stephen A. Smith, Steve Harvey, Lauren London, Terrence J, and more.

A CREATORS TOOLBOX

By Antheny Raiy

BLUE YETI USB MICROPHONE

Sturdy, reliable, and well-weighted, the Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a perfect device for recording. With simple software, you can be set up in less than two minutes to record, edit, and export audio from the mic into a finished product, whether using it for podcasts, voiceovers, or songs.

$129.99

XEBEC TRI SCREEN 2

Instantly add two monitors to any laptop with the award-winning Tri-Screen 2. Now, you can work from anywhere without sacrificing productivity with triple screens. Welcome to the era of flexible working.

$499

CINTIQ PRO 24

Illustrate, animate, ideate, and everything in between with the Cintiq Pro 24. Built for creative professionals across any industry who want to save time and maximize creativity with a more efficient, controlled workspace.

$2,199.95

PRUSA I3 MK3S+

The Prusa i3 is a family of fused deposition modeling 3D printers. This award-winning model features a new version of their Nextruder extruder system, noadjustment load cell bed leveling, a modular, replaceable all-metal hot end, a color touchscreen, a die-cast aluminum frame Y-carriage (heat bed support), and an extruder frame.

$1,029

BYD AUTOMOTIVES

AN ICON OF LUXURY AND PERFORMANCE WHILE MAINTAINING ENERGY AND CLEANLINESS ON THE ROAD. By Hassan Wiggins

IMAGINE THE OPPORTUNITY to drive while not contributing to pollution and carbon emissions but to a cleaner, safer, healthier future. This is possible today with Byd Automotives.

Founded in 2003, Byd Auto has created plug-in alternative vehicles with a vision of energy efficiency. They specialize in electric and hybrid cars, but the company also handles rail transit, electronic, and renewable energy in some cases. The company, originating as a battery manufacturer, is well-versed in energy and cost-efficient clean transportation. With each model improving on the last, there is always a vehicle that fits both your style and dedication to clean energy.

The Byd Han is their newest model, described as luxurious, sleek, powerful, and safe. This electric sedan prioritizes design for aerodynamic movement, with low drag, to improve its driving range. A classic but stylish interior to ensure comfortability while driving. The car is also equipped with wooden panels and leather to give the vehicle its rich, sharp feel while remaining energy efficient. There’s also a 15.6-inch multimedia touchscreen that allows both up-to-date intractability and adds to its classic feel with touches of modernity. Safety has been taken into account when building this superior automobile, as the Byd Han is infused with Intelligence Cruise Control by using sensors and AI technology to calculate distances, identify speeds, and relay information that is helpful to keep you safe on the road.

The company doesn’t just find solutions to energy-efficient driving options, but they have also proven to find solutions to larger safety issues regarding our vehicles. A common concern about electric vehicles is their batteries and thermal runaway, which is when a battery cell overheats and triggers a reaction that causes the battery to heat up to ridiculous temperatures. Byd recognized the flaw in these batteries and set their eyes on creating something safer while still keeping emissions down in their vehicles. In 2020, Byd created the Blade Battery Pack, which was nothing short of a breakthrough in electric vehicle creation. The battery could withstand nail penetration and failed to produce smoke or fire. A lithium iron block battery, a standard for some electric vehicles, hits 200 degrees to 400 degrees Celsius upon penetration. Another battery hit upwards of 500 degrees Celsius and violently burned upon penetration. The Byd Blade Battery kept temperatures down by a significant margin, reaching peaks of 60 degrees Celsius.

Another value Byd upholds is expanding its electric vehicles across all continents. A possible future, one that is much more necessary, is a world where a majority of everyday people use energy-efficient vehicles. This is a broad goal and takes time to achieve, but Byd has continued to take steps to push us into a future that benefits all. The company has already released vehicles in many countries, such as Panama, Mexico, Brazil, and Paraguay.

The Byd Song Pro, which was announced in October, is one of the most notable cars as it incorporates similar visual components as the Byd Han. With a classic feel and sleek refinement allowing rich comfortability, the car is equipped with the Byd Blade battery to ensure safety and efficiency, acting as a disruptor in the SUV market. Its grasping feature is the Super Hybrid DM-i system, allowing the driver to seamlessly swap from electric to hybrid power to deliver superior fuel economy and achieve consumption rates lower than most at 0.9 liters per 100 kilometers.

It’s our responsibility to take action and lower our carbon emissions, and it starts with our everyday habits. Passenger vehicles alone contribute to 45 percent of CO2 emissions. Byd offers you a respectable vehicle and a promising future for both you and generations to come.

The Sole Collector

Mike Paris is a passionate sneakerhead known for his extensive collection of rare and limited-edition sneakers. With a keen eye for style and trends, Mike has built a reputation within the sneaker community as a curator of sought-after footwear. His social media presence highlights his love for sneaker culture, blending fashion, history, and personal flair.

SUPERIOR BEARD CARE

SCOTCH PORTER

Made from natural oils and botanicals, Scotch Porter’s line of beard products was designed for the budding beard grower and beard enthusiasts alike. Standing true to the power of these clean ingredients, Scotch Porter promises their products will tame, soften and strengthen for a beard that feels as good as it looks.

SHEA MOISTURE

Formulated with no sulfates, phthalates, parabens, mineral oil or petroleum, Shea Moisture’s legacy stems from homemade beauty products formulated with shea butter handcrafted in Africa in the early 1900s. Their array of products has something for every type of beard, and they believe in pouring back into our communities.

MUST-TRY5TORONTO RESTAURANTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

As frost settles over Toronto's skyline, the city's remarkable diversity—home to over 200 ethnic origins—comes alive through its winter dining scene. Just an hour's flight from New York City, this culinary capital offers visitors favorable exchange rates and endless seasonal menus, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts this holiday season.

By Anna Kim

BLACK+BLUE RESTAURANT

Black+Blue Restaurant leads our list with dramatic tableside presentations and reimagined classics. Spanning an impressive 9,000 square feet over two sophisticated levels in the city's financial district, this dining destination crowns its interior design with a show-stopping 2,000-square-foot patio. The thoughtfully designed space creates an urban sanctuary where architectural grandeur meets outdoor elegance, making it the perfect ambiance for the holiday season. Celebrated Executive Chef Morgan Bellis (formerly of Bisha, Kost, and Lavelle) leads Black+Blue Toronto's culinary menu, where he reinvents steakhouse classics while championing the world's finest cuts. From their unique Himalayan salt aging chamber showcasing 45-day dry-aged cuts to their exclusive status as certified Kobe beef purveyors in Canada, their luxurious offerings extend from prized Japanese A5 Wagyu to lavish seafood towers featuring coveted Osetra and Beluga caviar and meticulously selected prime cuts from both sides of the border.

LAYLAK

In Toronto's soaring financial district, Laylak emerges as a transportive celebration of Lebanese culture, where Beirut's soul meets downtown Toronto's cosmopolitan energy. Award-winning designer Lavish Design Build crafted an ethereal space where graceful archways soar overhead and intricate geometric patterns, white butterfly decor, and lights dance across ornate ceilings, creating an atmosphere for the perfect holiday ambiance. Here, Executive Chef Hazem Al Hamwi orchestrates a menu that elevates traditional Lebanese cuisine to new heights. The menu dazzles with innovative dishes such as hummus tenderloin, beetroot labneh, makdous fatteh, and perfectly grilled octopus with mixed micro herbs and lemon

FALLEN FEATHER

On Toronto's vibrant Ossington Avenue, Fallen Feather is a testament to culinary alchemy, a delicate dance between French technique and Japanese fermentation; together, their innovative fusion menu unfolds within an arrestingly designed space and quickly becomes the neighborhood's most sought-after reservation. Artistic feather motifs dance across this enchanting dining space, and gilded mirrors create a dance of light and reflection, transforming the room into a magical setting that sparkles with holiday spirit. Anchoring the menu's must-try selections is masterfully prepared 24-hour sous vide 30 oz. short ribs, crisp corn fritter, kimchi olive, and a mentaiko pasta with pollock roe and cream sauce.

ESTIATORIO MILOS

In the heart of Toronto's gleaming financial district, Greek culinary legend Chef and owner Costas Spiliadis brings his acclaimed Mediterranean vision to Estiatorio Milos, marking the brand's second Canadian outpost and twelfth global location. Milos's menu showcases Mediterranean excellence through thoughtfully sourced ingredients: salads with signature extra virgin olive oil, delicate sepia alongside ink-black risotto, and Athenian-style lobster pasta. Their rabbit stifado, marinated in xinomavro wine, bay leaves, fresh grated tomatoes, and perfectly grilled swordfish, demonstrate why Milos has become synonymous with Greek excellence.

RUBY SOHO

In Toronto's vibrant King West district, Ruby Soho pulses with the same creative energy that defined its namesake, Owner Archie Alleyne (related to the late and legendary Toronto jazz drummer Archie Alleyne). This culinary hotspot, where brunch flows into dinner and late-night revelry, carries forward a legacy of Chef Drew Anthony's imaginative menu. Each dish tells its own story of fusion and flavor: a decadent trois fromage kale dip elevates comfort food to new heights, while the jerk chicken delivers Caribbean heat with masterful precision. The lobster bacon mac n' cheese transforms a classic into a mouthwatering indulgence, and the rib-eye quesadilla is made with Mexican crema and caramelized onion.

Make reservations well in advance—these coveted holiday tables are Toronto's hottest tickets. Each venue offers private dining rooms perfect for family and friend gatherings or corporate celebrations.

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Black + Blue Restaurant

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Fallen Feather

Estiatorio Milos

Ruby Soho

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. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding during treatment with BIKTARVY. 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.

04/19/2019 through 05/19/2023. #1 PRESCRIBED HIV TREATMENT*

by

IQVIA NPA Weekly

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BLACK OWNED BOOKSTORES

By Serena Carter

MALIK BOOKS

LOS ANGELES

Malik Books is your one-stop shop for Black literature. They have a selection of books from different genres, such as kids’ books, autobiographies, business and finance, poetry, history, urban and more. Several booksigning events are hosted at the location and virtually. Not only is Malik Books a Black-owned independent bookstore that has been serving the Los Angeles community since 1990, they are a big advocate for children’s education and believe that “children are 100 percent our future.” As another initiative to give back to the community, Malik Books has a bookmobile that services the community as part of their commitment to have a positive impact. Malik Books is located at 3650 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. and in Culver City Mall in Los Angeles, California.

27TH LETTER BOOKS DETROIT

27th Letters Books is an independently owned bookstore in Detroit, Michigan, that strives to highlight historically underrepresented voices and narratives in all forms. What makes 27th Letter Books unique is that it is a Co-Op. They decided to be a Co-Op to give people a space where they can have self-determination in their lives, mainly around their work and creativity. 27th Letter Books hosts events regularly, such as donation-based open mic, poetry readings, storytime for children, visual arts, and a book club. Events are posted online at 27letterbooks.com. Along with featured events, aspiring artists have the opportunity to display their art in the store as well. 27th Letter Books offers a list of their best-selling books and staffrecommended reads.

SISTER’S UPTOWN BOOKSTORE MANHATTAN

Sister’s Uptown Bookstore is a Black-owned, family-operated bookstore in the center of Manhattan. Founded by Jennifer P. Wilson in early 2000, Sister’s Uptown was established with a mission to bring positive change to a struggling community. As the bookstore was part of the change, she opened Sister’s Uptown Cultural Center in 2007 to provide resources to the community. Recently, Sister’s Uptown has been celebrating 15 years of community service and has become a positive staple in the community. Sister’s Uptown Bookstore carries books from various authors such as Sister Soulja, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Michael Eric Dyson. It has many genres, including Black studies, novels, spirituality, memoirs, non-fiction, and more. Books can be purchased online at sistersuptownbookstore.com or in-store. Sister’s Uptown Bookstore is located at 1942 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY.

MEDU BOOKSTORE ATLANTA

Atlanta’s oldest African-American-owned bookstore, Medu, has been in business for over 30 years. Medu means “the power of the word,” and owner Nia Damali opened the doors to the second-largest AfricanAmerican-owned bookstore in Atlanta on December 5, 1989. Medu Bookstore is located in Greenbriar Mall in Atlanta, Georgia, where readers can browse the store’s extensive selection of books and attend in-store events. The bookstore hosts many events, from author events to meet and greets featuring congressmen, rappers, actors, and activists. Along with books, there is a wide range of merchandise, such as t-shirts and mugs, available for purchase. Aspiring authors can have their books featured on the shelves at Medu by submitting an original book to the store. The process can take up to 4-6 weeks for the book to be reviewed before a decision is made. Medu Bookstore strives to be a prominent place in Atlanta by serving the community and promoting cultural awareness.

HOW ESTEEMED ARTIST Alexandre Arrechea CONTEMPLATES POLICY AND PEOPLE THROUGH VISUAL ART

By Simone Harvin

ALEXANDRE ARRECHEA, A Cuban-born visual artist, has built an acclaimed career with reverberating impact through a deep connection with curiosity. His works—primarily large-scale installations, sculptures, watercolor drawings, and videos—spark dialogue and thought around themes of history, politics, surveillance, and power relations in urban spaces. Arrechea’s works also challenge the notion that any given space can have more than one story worth remembering—whether it’s uncredited contributors or the forgotten people of a community. These literal works of affirmation center on the recipient—creations of intention that show layers of understanding for both the creator and the consumer.

Born in Trinidad, Cuba, in 1970, Arrechea’s surrounding influences of colonial architecture and early education ignited the artist’s flame for creating. The innocent questions of his adolescence have ascended into a globally-lauded inquisition, of sorts, into space, time, and the inhabitants that coexist in it.

His story is a testament to the creative and purposeful heights one can achieve by following curiosities and flourishing in one’s craft. Now living and working throughout the world, Arrechea’s perspective— often resurging historical tipping points for renewed discourse—adds a unique layer of remembering to today’s art scene.

A GLOBAL ARTISTIC VISION BORN IN TRINIDAD, CUBA

Arrechea credits the ability to create new worlds with his passion for carpentry. With memories of his hometown, a desire was piqued by its architecture early on and fostered further during his collegiate studies in Havana. From sketching in primary school to photography as a teenager, his transition to physical materials in Havana unearthed the conduit for his now globally recognized form of creative expression. The artist recounts in interviews a memory of seeing his uncle on a colonial building’s roof that sparked a knowing of his ability to take ownership of such a grand space.

In Havana, he joined two Cuban artists and friends to form an artist collective—Los Carpinteros. From 1991 until his 2003 solo breakout, Arrechea mesmerized the international art world with unconventional takes on everyday objects alongside co-founders Marco Antonio Castillo Valdés and Dagoberto Rodríguez Sánchez. During their active run, Los Carpinteros garnered quick success and the attention of the New York Modern Museum of Art, which acquired several of their works for its permanent collection.

Embarking on his solo artist journey shortly after, Arrechea has since created remarkable works that have landed in museums and been commissioned for public spaces. While each work takes its own form, descriptors like ‘epic’ and ‘monumental’ are a throughline in his works. His first solo project immediately followed in 2005, El Jardin de la Desconfianza (The Garden of Mistrust), a 13-foot aluminum tree with branches that extend to its surveillance camera leaves. In 2010, Arrechea also made creative noise in Times Square with Black Sun, a 3-D wrecking ball projection bouncing off the eight-story digital billboard on the NASDAQ building at 43rd Street and Broadway.

Most notably, Arrechea’s recognition reached new levels with Katrina Chairs, commissioned for and erected at the 2016 Coachella Music Festival. Four 50-foot yellow structures stand out from the crowd of 100,000 festival goers, providing respite from the elements while creating a conversation about the slow and scrappy government response in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“WHAT’S NEXT”

Arrechea’s career, having touched billions of people to date, remains an inspiration to the imaginative spaces a purview of questioning everything can produce. The site-specific nature of his creation style intricately weaves artistic narratives that often require the recollection of tensions and truths. The exchange between a space and its inhabitants is central in his work, with Arrechea pondering over projects, “How will the outcome impact the people of the art space?”

Over the last decade, Arrechea’s works have increasingly graced creative spaces around the world, from Brazil to Switzerland. His conversation-provoking installations have taken Art Basel by storm, and regular exhibitions and projects in Havana keep him

Source for all quotes or subject’s thoughts: https://www.youtube.com/live/ STvA15xr1SA?si=QOXY9coSBJKzRmkL EMBRACING UNFINISHED WORKS AS BRIDGES TO

connected to his home. Several museums also maintain his works as part of their public collections, including the Daros Collection in Zurich, Switzerland, Los Angeles’ Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and Museo del Barrio, both in New York.

He considers many of his works “never finished” but rather a bridge to the next project, piece, or idea. Indeed, as his journey has progressed, Alexandre Arrechea continues to realize new levels of impact and influence as one of the world’s preeminent visual artists who, with pride, represents his Cuban descent.

DISCOVER BUDAPEST

A CITY WHERE EAST MEETS WEST

By Becca Blond

Budapest is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and I fell in love when I visited for the first time this year. It has the hottest nightlife scenes after Berlin, and the city doesn’t disappoint when the sun is out. The Hungarian capital is a place where oldworld charm and modern buzz coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a history buff wandering through centuries-old castles, a foodie indulging in hearty Hungarian goulash, or simply someone looking to unwind in one of the city’s famous thermal baths, Budapest has something to ignite your fire.

Nestled along the banks of the Danube, this city is a dazzling blend of East and West. From the romantic Buda hills to the bustling Pest streets, Budapest is more than just a pretty face—it’s a cultural mosaic brimming with life. Get ready to explore a city that will capture your heart, one cobblestone street at a time, with our Budapest travel guide.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BUDAPEST

Budapest is home to numerous thermal baths, with the Széchenyi Thermal Bath being its most famous and one of the largest spas in Europe. Its neo-Baroque architecture has 18 pools, both indoor and outdoor, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. The mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties, and soaking in the thermal baths is both relaxing and rejuvenating.

Situated in the stunning Gellért Hotel, the Gellért Thermal Bath is another favorite and usually less crowded than the Széchenyi. It is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau design and luxurious bathing experience. The thermal baths feature mosaic tiles, stained glass windows, and intricate architectural details.

Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, also known as District VII, is famous for its ruin bars, kosher restaurants, and cultural landmarks, including Europe’s largest synagogue. The Quarter is a hotspot for nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and eateries offering something for everyone. It is also home to boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to antiques.

The iconic Buda Castle is another top attraction. It is perched high on Castle Hill, offers panoramic views of the city, and houses the Hungarian National Gallery. Just a short stroll away, the Fisherman’s Bastion enchants with fairy-tale turrets and views of the Danube River and Parliament building. Speaking of the Parliament, this neo-Gothic masterpiece is a must-visit, boasting intricate architecture and a stunning interior where the Hungarian Crown Jewels are kept. At night, it is lit up and particularly photogenic.

WHERE TO GO FOR NIGHTLIFE IN BUDAPEST

Budapest’s nightlife scene is one of its biggest draws. First up, you must check out one of the city’s famous ruin bars. Located in abandoned buildings and courtyards in the Jewish Quarter, these Bohemian bars are decorated with eclectic furniture and local art, with Szimpla Kert being the most famous. It is a sprawling, multi-room venue with a vibrant mix of bars, food stalls, and art installations. Each room has a different theme, creating a whimsical and adventurous vibe. Another top ruin bar is Anker’t. Set in a spacious courtyard, it has a minimalist design and a relaxed atmosphere.

Budapest’s club scene has been compared to Berlin’s, with parties that roll until morning. Akvárium Klub is known for its eclectic music lineup and lit atmosphere. It features multiple rooms and a large terrace and hosts local and international DJs. A haven for techno lovers, LÄRM focuses on high-quality sound and has an intimate dance floor. It’s a good choice for an old-school underground experience. Ötkert is another trendy club that plays a mix of electronic, pop, and hip-hop music.

WHERE TO EAT IN BUDAPEST

Established in 1894, Gundel Restaurant is a great choice for fine Hungarian dining. The menu includes classics like goulash and foie gras, as well as contemporary creations served in opulent environs.

For a Michelin-starred dinner, try Borkonyha Winekitchen. It combines the best of Hungarian cuisine with international influences. The menu changes seasonally, and there is an extensive wine list featuring many local selections.

For a more casual dining experience, Karavan Street Food offers a lively atmosphere with a variety of food trucks and stalls. Located in the Jewish Quarter, you can find everything from traditional Hungarian lángos to vegan burgers and Asian fusion dishes. It’s a great place to sample a diverse range of flavors in a fun, outdoor setting.

Previous Spread: Danube River

This Spread: Thermal Bath

Jewish Quarter

Boutique Hotel

WHERE TO STAY IN BUDAPEST

The brand-new Kimpton BEM Budapest is a stylish boutique property with a luxe contemporary design that incorporates elements of Hungarian mythology. Upon entering the lobby, you’ll be greeted by a giant golden stag—a nod to the myth of the white stag, a legendary creature in Hungarian folklore. The rooms are chic and comfortable, featuring modern amenities. Some have soaking tubs in front of windows overlooking the city. The hotel boasts a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, making it a perfect spot for sunset cocktails. Other amenities include a spa with a steam room, sauna, whirlpool hot tub, and a fitness center.

Aria Hotel Budapest is another luxurious boutique hotel in a central locale. Each wing of the hotel is dedicated to a different genre of music, including classical and opera. The rooms are elegantly designed with music-themed décor. Make sure to check out the rooftop bar, which offers panoramic city views.

24 HOURS in

LONGYEARBYEN’S FOOD SCENE

By Jennifer Billock

My first day in Longyearbyen started with me falling over myself to remove complicated boots I’d put on only ten minutes prior. I was at Cafe Huskies, a coffee shop where you can escape the loneliness of long, dark winters by getting a cuppa and petting the owner’s huskies. I was there during the midnight sun portion of the year, but I’m always in for puppets. But back to the boots. Many establishments in Longyearbyen hang on to an old custom of removing your shoes when you enter. It’s a throwback to the coal-mining history of the early 1900s when your boots could track in coal dust and other dirt. I love the history behind the custom, but my boots are clunky, and I was in a small space with five other people trying to do the same thing — so by the time I got inside, I was definitely ready for a nice cup of relaxing tea. Sadly for me, the huskies were being monopolized by a group of children, so instead, I browsed the local handicrafts for sale while I waited for my to-go herbal blend to steep.

This Spread:

Longyearbyen town

Cafe Huskies

When my tea was ready, I grabbed the cup and headed toward the nearby bakery, Fruene. I say nearby, but to be fair, everything in Longyearbyen is “nearby.” It’s a small town with only about 2,600 people, and the entire place is walkable in about 15 minutes end to end. I’m a bakery historian, so I try to get to one everywhere I go, and Fruene did not disappoint. I walked through piles of warm blankets for sale, past a display of yarn, and up to the counter, where I ordered some polar bear-shaped chocolates and a cardamom bun.

Longyearbyen is the largest town on Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago between the mainland and the North Pole. Thanks to the Scandinavian population’s love of cardamom — Norway consumes the most of all the Scandi countries! — I enjoyed a top-quality bun brimming with the floral, spicy flavor that comforts me every time I eat it.

After breakfast, I took a stroll across town to the old cemetery. You may have heard that it’s illegal to die on Svalbard. Well, that’s not entirely true. It’s illegal to be buried in Svalbard. But before this law was implemented, a cemetery popped up at the base of a mountain. The cemetery is now gated off and populated with white crosses and the occasional reindeer alongside absolutely stunning mountain landscapes that show a panoramic

view of the town. Next, I hit the main pedestrian street for some arctic shopping, leaving with a new shirt and an extra-warm wool hat (and maybe a few pieces of cheese from the surprisingly well-stocked cheese section at the grocery store).

I turned back toward my hotel, the Funken Lodge, for lunch. Funken Bar is the only specialty cocktail bar in Longyearbyen, and the bar food is more like a casual restaurant’s offering, but all inspired by the landscape and local ingredients. I ordered the Funken’s Burger, a fried chicken burger with pickle mayo on a charcoal black sesame seed bun, served with french fries. The seating in the bar is what I like to call Norwegian Cozy, filled with deep cushions, low Scandinavianinspired furniture, and enough blankets to fill a small mansion. Just like everywhere else you go in Longyearbyen, you’ll never feel chilled or anything less than comforted.

I worked off my Funken’s Burger with a hike down to the waterfront and along the coast to see what I could find. I was rewarded in the form of the world’s northernmost Circle K gas station, a picturesque view of the town church up on a hill, and a walk

This Spread:

Fruene Funken Bar Nuga Sushi

over a bridge with a calming babbling brook beneath. The town is small, but exploring the various elevations can make someone work up an appetite.

Earlier in the day, I’d seen a sign promoting the “northernmost sushi in the world.” I’m a huge sushi fan, and I’ve had it on a ship in Antarctica, so of course, I had to end my night there to meet the other end of the spectrum. Nuga Sushi is in The Vault Hotel, and while most of the town’s businesses have stunning views, this one looks out to an apartment building. But that’s alright because the best view is what’s on the plate in front of you. I had eel nigiri, a fresh blend of tea, and the Midnight Sun roll (scallop, avocado, salmon roe, and chili mayo), which seemed extra appropriate since I left close to 9 p.m. and it was still bright and sunny outside.

One day, I’ll be back in the winter so that I can stroll back to the hotel under a blanket of northern lights with another full belly and a happy stride.

TURBO's PLAYBOOK Inside

THE PRODUCER WHO CHANGED HIP-HOP FOREVER

By Nino Reyes

PHOTOGRAPHY L10

PHOTOGRAPHER ASSIST JACKIE TAYLOR JR

GROOMING MONIQUE HARDY

FASHION MARY FRANCIS

VIDEOGRAPHER BUBBA GUTIERREZ

STYLIST ASSISTANTS SAVANNAH CHOULAMANY, ESICHANG MCGAUTHA

SWEATER FEAR OF GOD ESSENTIALS

LEATHER SHORTS HUDSON

SOCKS YEEZY

SLIDES MARNI

BLANKET HERMES

SWEATPANTS FEAR OF GOD ESSENTIALS BOOTS LOUIS VUITTON X TIMBERLAND

COAT CASABLANCA

T-SHIRT JOHN ELLIOTT

AS HIP-HOP CONTINUALLY REINVENTS ITSELF, A FEW STANDOUT PRODUCERS HAVE CRAFTED TIMELESS SOUNDS THAT SHAPE THE GENRE'S FUTURE. ONE NAME THAT HAS BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH SHAPING THE GENRE’S SOUND AND PUSHING ITS BOUNDARIES IS TURBO. A MULTI-PLATINUM, GRAMMY-NOMINATED POWERHOUSE, TURBO HAS BEEN AT THE HEART OF SOME OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL SONGS AND ALBUMS OF THE PAST DECADE. FROM GUNNA AND LIL BABY TO YOUNG THUG, DRAKE, TRAVIS SCOTT, AND PLAYBOI CARTI, HIS FINGERPRINTS ARE ON SOME OF THE BIGGEST TRACKS IN MODERN HIP-HOP. AS HE CONTINUES TO BUILD HIS EMPIRE THROUGH HIS LABEL, THE PLAYMAKERS, AND HIS OWN MUSIC, TURBO’S IMPACT ON THE CULTURE IS UNDENIABLE AND IT’S ONLY GETTING BIGGER.

I ALWAYS ASPIRED TO BE A PRODUCER, EVERYTHING ELSE WAS JUST A STEPPING STONE.

EARLY BEGINNINGS CRAFTING A LEGACY FROM THE GROUND UP

Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Turbo’s journey into music began at an early age. Music was not just a background element in his life but a constant. His mother, an avid listener of artists like Jill Scott and Missy Elliott, was his first musical influence. At just 9 years old, he would sneakily use his mother’s boombox, absorbing the sounds that would shape his future. From church hymns to the soulful melodies of neo-soul, music was deeply woven into his upbringing.

Turbo’s first exposure to creating music came when he began playing around on his grandmother’s piano and experimenting with sound in his aunt’s garage. By the time he was 14, Turbo was producing his own beats. Though his high school years were filled with a deepening commitment to his craft, his passion for music didn’t stop at production. Turbo dabbled in rapping, engineering, and even releasing four projects in high school—all while honing the skills that would later propel him to the top.

In his early career, Turbo wasn’t just a producer; he was a versatile creator. But his true ambition was always to become one of the best producers in the game. His relentless work ethic, fueled by his experiences in Atlanta’s vibrant music scene, laid the groundwork for what would become a legendary career.

“I always aspired to be a producer,” Turbo reflects. “Everything else was just a stepping stone.”

BREAKING THROUGH T.I. AND THE RISE OF A STAR

It wasn’t long before Turbo’s work started catching the attention of major industry figures. His first significant break came when he landed a placement on T.I.’s Bankroll Mafia project. This opportunity marked a turning point for Turbo, validating his position as a serious producer in the industry. It wasn’t just about the financial success—it was about proving to himself that he could make it in the competitive world of hip-hop.

Turbo credits his connections in College Park and his relentless pursuit of his craft for making this opportunity possible. As he began to rise, the young producer would meet Gunna, then on the rise as well. The two forged a bond that would define the next chapter of Turbo’s career.

THE GUNNA ERA REDEFINING THE SOUND OF MODERN HIP-HOP

Turbo’s partnership with Gunna was nothing short of transformative. Their creative chemistry began to flourish around 2016 when they started spending more time together in the studio. Gunna was going through a difficult period in his career, but Turbo was there to help him find his creative spark once again. The result was Drip Season 3, a pivotal project that laid the foundation for some of the duo’s most iconic hits.

However, “Drip Too Hard,” the hit single from the collaborative album Drip Harder with Lil Baby, truly changed the trajectory of both Gunna and Lil Baby’s careers. Fans immediately gravitated toward the track, making it an instant hit. Turbo recalls hearing the hook and immediately recognizing that it was a potential banger. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes, coordinating sessions and overseeing the production to ensure “Drip Too Hard” reached its full potential. The track would become 10 times platinum, a massive milestone in Turbo’s career.

“The project was successful, but those two mega-hits took it to a whole new level,” Turbo says. “When you create something special, you don’t know how big it’s going to be, but it was undeniable that both songs had that magic.” Turbo played a crucial role in organizing the sessions that brought Gunna and Lil Baby together, and the rest, as they say, is history.

YELLOW LEATHER TRENCH BALENCIAGA

ZIP HOODIE ENTIRE STUDIO

SHORTS FEAR OF GOD

BOOTS

TIMBERLAND

AS LONG AS YOU PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS AND PUT IN YOUR HOURS,

YOU’LL GET IT.

CRAFTING HITS WITH THE INDUSTRY’S ELITE

Turbo’s rise in the industry didn’t stop there. He went on to collaborate with some of the biggest names in hip-hop. From Travis Scott’s “YOSEMITE” to Lil Baby’s “Close Friends” and Young Thug’s “Quarantine Clean,” Turbo’s production continued to shape the sound of contemporary rap. His style was innovative yet rooted in authenticity, blending modern trap beats with organic instrumentation—particularly the use of guitars, which was a signature sound that set him apart from his contemporaries.

“I’ve always been drawn to acoustic sounds,” Turbo explains. “When I first started using guitars in my beats, it wasn’t the norm in hip-hop, but it felt right. I’ve always had a deep love for real instruments, and that’s something I wanted to bring into my production.”

Turbo’s sound became synonymous with both innovation and authenticity. Whether it was the mellow vibe of Roddy Ricch’s “Survivor’s Remorse” or the high-energy collaboration with Moneybagg Yo and Morgan Wallen on “Whiskey, Whiskey,” Turbo’s versatility as a producer became his calling card.

THE PLAYMAKERS A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Now, as one of the industry’s top producers, Turbo is focused on creating opportunities for the next generation. His label, THE PLAYMAKERS, is more than just a label—it’s a movement. Turbo’s vision for THE PLAYMAKERS is simple but powerful: to build a community of artists, producers, and engineers who can collaborate, learn, and grow together. He envisions the label as an ecosystem, a space where creative minds can thrive, share knowledge, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

“The concept of being a Playmaker is about being versatile,” Turbo explains. “It’s about making plays in every aspect—whether that’s producing, signing artists, or creating new opportunities for people in the industry. We’re not just signing rappers; we’re signing real artists, people with vision and passion.”

Recruiting talent from across the globe, Turbo has already begun to expand the PLAYMAKERS roster. His long-term goal is to develop successful artists from the ground up—just as he did with Gunna.

“Everything I do now is about creating stars and building a legacy that goes beyond just making hits,” Turbo says. “I want to be known as someone who not only created incredible music but who also opened doors for the next generation. My goal is to take this label to the moon.”

WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

As Turbo continues to expand his influence, his advice for aspiring producers is clear: work hard, stay authentic, and be consistent. “Work as hard as you can. Stay consistent. Be a real person and have values. That’s what I tell any young producer or young person. As long as you pay attention to details and put in your hours, you’ll get it.” Turbo's rise is a reflection of the rewards that come with consistency and being authentic. From his early days in Atlanta to becoming a sought-after producer, he has built a career based on one simple truth: hard work pays off. As he continues to nurture talent through THE PLAYMAKERS and work on his own music, it’s clear that Turbo is far from done. He’s shaping the future of hip-hop, one hit at a time.

Looking ahead, Turbo's impact on the music industry will be undeniable. With his label, his own forthcoming album, and a roster of artists he is nurturing, Turbo is poised to leave a legacy that will influence the culture for years to come. His ability to innovate while staying true to his roots will ensure his place in hip-hop history is cemented as one of the genre's most influential producers.

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MEET

Daniel Kyri

THE FIRE STARTER WHO’S BLAZING HIS OWN TRAIL ON PRIMETIME TELEVISION AND BEYOND

By Pretty Honore

GROWING UP ON Chicago’s South Side, Daniel Kyri envisioned a world where his identity was not just represented but celebrated in mainstream media. Today, he’s making that dream a reality through storytelling.

The actor has been heating up the small screen on NBC’s Chicago Fire since 2018. Kyri joined the cast as Darren Ritter, the first openly gay firefighter to join the show in its decade-long history, and quickly became a fan favorite. What was supposed to be a two- to three-episode arc became a game-changing role that redefined what representation can look like on primetime television.

“I do believe in the power of representation and the power of being able to say, ‘Hey, young men, this is a possibility for you,’” Kyri told Bleu Magazine. “Whether it’s a young Black boy on the South Side who’s like, ‘I could become a firefighter,’ or a young Black boy who’s thinking, ‘I think I am gay.’”

But for Kyri, simply being seen isn’t enough. While he celebrates Hollywood’s strides toward inclusion, he pushes for more profound, authentic change.

“I can’t speak enough about the inherent value of visibility,” the actor shared sincerely. “But representation, for me, it’s something that is more holistic. And it doesn’t necessarily seek to normalize so much as it seeks to centralize.”

As his career expands beyond acting and into screenwriting and music, Kyri is keeping that same energy, committed to using his platform to tell richer, more diverse stories that resonate with those who have long been underrepresented in mainstream media.

In an exclusive interview with Bleu, Kyri got candid about growing up in Chicago, his journey of self-discovery, and his commitment to creating space for more authentic queer, Black stories.

“I can’t speak enough about the inherent value of visibility,”

Kyri envisions an entertainment industry where queer characters aren’t confined to stereotypes but celebrated for their humanity without apology. Showing the complexity and depth of those characters is an essential part of shifting the needle and creating space for the marginalized, says Kyri.

“My vision of the industry shifting forward is more sorts of representation like that. Because that tells me that you are not apologizing for having a queer character, you know, and that you are fully embracing them in their full humanity, and that is important to me.”

But Kyri is not waiting for the industry to catch up. Instead, he’s telling these stories through his personal platforms— including his music.

His October 2024 single, “Maybe,” offers a fresh perspective on intimacy, heartache, and loneliness. “We don’t necessarily get to see gay couples in love more than we see them in passion,” Kyri told us.

The songwriter said that the themes in the song and music video, which portrays a Black queer couple trying to find common ground, were reflective of his own experiences. “It can be difficult as a

black man to love a black man without any models of how to do that,” he said.

Kyri also has some other projects up his sleeve. Along with his music, the entertainer is also writing his own script, which is just “as gay and Black as you think it is,” he said with a laugh.

Kyri is proof that honoring your true identity can inspire change. By embracing the depths of his own complexities and extending that same freedom to others, he is redefining representation and providing future generations with a new blueprint for success.

Grammy-Award Winning Group

LOUIS YORK

Talks Early Influences and New Album: SONGS WITH FRIENDS

By Kirby Carroll

LOUIS YORK, the powerhouse duo of Chuck Harmony and Claude Kelly, has an impressive background in the music industry. They have written and produced hits for artists such as Rihanna, Mary J. Blige, Bruno Mars, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Fantasia, Jazmine Sullivan, Ne-Yo, and many more. Their work has garnered numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, establishing them as true innovators in contemporary music. And after a few minutes of conversation and connecting over

our love for peaceful moments, good books, and a few TV shows—I knew I was in good company. Their passion was clear from the start of the call. The pair’s voice lights up when talking about their live shows and the power of community. And to be honest, it felt good to know that a group that has garnered so much success has such a reverence for their craft. Check out our conversation below, give the album a listen, and if you feel compelled, check out their tour dates and find out why the pair calls their shows “music’s best-kept secret.”

When you know, you know. We clicked from our first session.

BLEU: So, I like to start at the beginning. Can you both tell me individually when you knew that music was something that made you feel at peace?

Claude: For me, it was at church. As far back as I could remember, I was so obsessed with instruments. I remember a drummer, his name was Tom Taylor, he would have to sit me on his lap and play music to keep me from crying. And I was so young then. I was just always fascinated with music. So yeah—I’d equate it to church. Chuck: It was church early for me, too. But I was also listening to music at home. My mother played a lot of records cleaning the house, doing chores, after school, or whatever. I wasn’t really allowed to watch a lot of television, so it was a bunch of record playing. It was a lot of early Bob Marley, the Beatles, Motown, and all that stuff. I heard the magic immediately. It was like, whatever that is, I want to be a part of it. And I don’t remember this, but she said I was, like, singing before I could really speak and conceptualize it.

BLEU: That’s beautiful. Music can definitely set the tone for the day. Now, talk to me about how you two connected. Was it when you were with Chrisette Michelle? How did you know there was chemistry and that you two could build together?

Claude: Yes, that’s correct—in 2006, and we knew instantly. I’m not sure if it’s a little different now because of technology, but earlier musicians would get paired up with people you didn’t know a lot. In the early 2000s, labels flew you out and said, “Hey, I have a good feeling about you doing this song with this person,” and you’d just kind of go with the flow. It’s like speed dating because sometimes you only have a day with the artists to connect, write a record, record it, and, hopefully, make it something big. So that was the situation with me and Chuck. I flew to Atlanta, where his studio was, and we kind of walked in there blindly. And the funny thing is to know us now, we know we either were gonna get along or hate each other because we’re so in our own worlds. Immediately, we bonded over the music for her but also music in the world. When you know, you know. We clicked from our first session.

BLEU: You mentioned songwriting. Looking back at your careers as songwriters and producers, how has that influenced your path and this new album?

Chuck: Well, for me, I’ve gotten to meet a lot of different kinds of people. Even though a lot of my well-known songs are R&B, I’ve sat with Seal, Michael Bolton, Bono, and all of those kinds of people. You can’t help but be influenced by greatness if you’re going to be great,

right? And so, with this album, when I listen back to Songs with Friends, I hear all those conversations—them playing me music or wanting a song like this or that. It leads to creating something I’ve never heard before. That’s how I do music.

I think that’s where the eclectic spirit of Songs with Friends comes out. It’s not just one sound, and we’re not doing 12 songs that all sound the same. We’re painting pictures with a lot of different colors. That’s where I feel like I really shine on Songs with Friends.

Claude: I’d say I’ve had a very colorful songwriting career, working with all kinds of artists. But what makes Songs with Friends special—I’m glad you asked—is that it’s a duets album. There’s this perception that, okay, we know some people and just threw a few famous friends on the album. But when you listen to it, you realize it’s not just a dope song with a dope artist on it. We were actually songwriting for the person on that song.

We had conversations with Tamia about how much she loves love songs like that. We’ve sat around the piano singing the theme song to Family Ties with her and talked about how she and Donny [Hathaway] love those classic duets and even how much she loves country music. So it’s not just a song we had lying around; we incorporated the artist and wrote for them as well as for ourselves.

It’s the same thing with Anthony [Hamilton]. We cowrote that song with him— he was as much a part of that process as we were. The skills we developed along the way, working with the greats, allowed us to create something unique. It’s not just like, “Hey, you’re my friend. Do me a favor and hop on my album.” No, we sat with each other for a few days, shot some content, and actually talked about where we all are in life. We wrote songs that feel true to them and to us. And it takes real experience to do that.

That part isn’t easy at all. But, like any kind of therapy, if you can push through and get to the end, the reward—the lollipop at the end, so to speak—makes it all worth it. And then, for us, with these songs, you have this thing that lives on forever, reminding you of how beautiful the journey was.

BLEU: That’s beautiful. That’s one of the things I love about music—you get it out, and it’s there forever. You can always come back and reflect on it. Can you describe the dynamic between you two in the studio? How do you navigate creative challenges, and how do you work through disagreements to continue thriving professionally?

You question everything. But if you trust it and push through, you get to the end .

Chuck: Oh, well, I always say that I come to the studio with Claude with a high level of respect for who he is outside of what we’re doing together. He’s just that guy. And I bring that level of respect to the table every time. It never changes— whether it’s our earlier projects like Fragile or if we’re doing a song today, it’s the same respect. That sets the table for us both to be comfortable sharing ideas. A lot of times, we share ideas through conversation more than through music itself. Most people think it’s just, “I do all the music, and Claude writes all the lyrics,” but it’s really interchangeable. Sometimes Claude comes up with a chord progression, and sometimes I might come up with a great lyric for a hook or something. So, it’s really a back-and-forth. That’s what keeps us strong and what helps us avoid creative difficulties. One of us will come up with an idea that sparks something, and we develop it from there.

BLEU: I’ll close with this: what’s the overall feeling you’d like people to get from the album?

BLEU: Is that always a good feeling? I feel like sometimes when you know you’re going through different things and incorporate it into your art the feelings can be complex. Talk to me about what it’s like to get your thoughts out in this way.

Claude: You don’t always feel good, I’ll tell you that much, because a lot of it is like therapy. It’s hard—conversations about life and your personal experiences. It’s like digging into emotions that don’t feel comfortable, right? Sometimes the best songs come out when real tough shit is happening. And it’s not just about dealing with those emotions. There’s also a point in the songwriting and production process where you’re just trying to figure out how to put the puzzle together correctly. You get frustrated and start thinking, “Am I even good at music? What am I doing with my life?” You question everything. But if you trust it and push through, you get to the end, and it’s beautiful—hopefully, right?

Claude: That’s a good question. You know, on an artist level, what you’ll hear when you listen from top to bottom—yeah, of course, people will recognize the names of the guest artists very well. But what really ties the whole thing together is us, Louis York—vocally, musically, production-wise, creatively. You’ll see, like, “Yo, these guys are formidable.” This is not a fluke. We do this.

It’s like, when we’re live on stage, it’s a whole experience. We’re going to tour with Jessie J, who’s one of the baddest to do it. We’ve been on tour with Anthony Hamilton, and it’s been a straight-up, equal exchange of energy, singing, playing, and just bringing it every night. So, I think people will have a lot more respect for us as musicians when they see us on stage, performing it all together.

On a message level, whether we say it or not, we make light music. We make music that inspires people, that encourages them to keep striving, keep trying, and keep betting on themselves. It’s music that pushes people to do some selfexploration. And I think this album is the best we’ve done at

that. I love all our projects, but we’ve gotten better and better with each one, which is really cool to say.

The messaging, the lyrics, the feeling, the production—it’s as much commercial as it is spiritual.

Chuck: Also, we want people to see the community in not just the music, but in Louis York. It’s about finding our tribe, finding our people, and interacting on a lot of different levels—not just on a music level but also a book level. We have tiny book clubs, you know?

A lot of times, when people experience us in person, it’s really a love fest—they feel like they’re in church. We want this album to be the marketing for that kind of feeling. That sense of community between us and the guest artists, us and the musicians. There are a lot of great musicians on the album. I didn’t play everything myself like I usually do. I invited other people to play, so it’s also a community-based project. We want people to feel that—songs and love.

By BOMESI

THE IMPACT OF IGNORING BLACK-OWNED MEDIA

AS A COLLECTIVE of Black-owned media owners, the Black Owned Media Equity and Sustainability Institute (BOMESI) stands united in our support and admiration for Vice President Kamala Harris, who ran an inspiring and powerful campaign. Harris’s journey to the ballot was one of resilience, strength, and dedication, and her message resonated with many. However, her campaign efforts were undermined not necessarily by any lack on her part, but by the choices made by Democratic operatives who failed to recognize and invest in the unique value of Black-owned media in reaching African-American voters.

The data speaks for itself. Voter turnout among African Americans was lower than anticipated, and there’s no mystery as to why. According to the Associated Press, about 8 in 10 Black voters supported Harris, down from about 9 in 10 who voted for Biden in 2020. A key group of those voters, young Black Men under the age of 45, increased their support of Trump by about double, with 3 in 10 of them voting for Trump.

Despite ample opportunities, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and its advertising agencies chose not to make meaningful investments in Black-owned media outlets. Instead, they relied on major mainstream platforms like CNN and ESPN, under the misguided belief that these would effectively engage Black voters. However, reaching Black audiences requires more than a superficial approach on general market channels—it demands a deep understanding of the cultural relevance and the specific environments in which Black communities consume media.

Political advertising isn’t just about visibility; it’s about resonance. It’s about meeting communities where they are, speaking in a voice they trust, and addressing the issues they care about most. Black-owned media platforms are uniquely positioned to accomplish this because we understand our audience in ways that larger, general market outlets cannot. Our platforms speak directly to Black communities, providing nuanced perspectives, cultural context, and a safe space for the discussions that matter to us most.

To the DNC’s credit, there was indeed some spending on Black-owned media. Outlets like Roland Martin Unfiltered, Black Enterprise, and The Grio were included in the media plan, and that investment was money well spent. These platforms are trusted sources within our community and reach important segments of the African American population. However, that was not enough, and their reach/scale was limited due to geotargeting parameters. Reaching a truly broad spectrum of Black voters requires more than a handful of placements. Black America is not monolithic; we are a tapestry of varied experiences, perspectives, and values. A comprehensive media strategy should have reflected this by engaging with a wider range of Black-owned outlets, from digital platforms and podcasts to local and niche publications that reach the community at all levels.

Unfortunately, it appears the DNC did not grasp this. According to an insider, one of the major political agencies involved in the campaign reportedly argued that they could best reach Black voters through

mainstream outlets like CNN and ESPN, dismissing the need for investment in Black-owned media. Meanwhile, the Republican National Committee (RNC) took a different approach, investing heavily in smaller sites and podcasts that spoke directly to their core audience, regardless of size. They understood that connecting with voters on a personal level, through the outlets they trust and respect, is far more valuable than blanket advertising on platforms that may have reach, but lack the cultural resonance needed to drive action.

To make matters worse, the creative content that was pushed through mainstream channels, though intended to reach Black audiences, fell flat for much of the core demographic. The messaging may have resonated with a small portion of African Americans, but it missed the mark with those who most needed to hear it—those whose votes would determine the election’s outcome. The messaging lacked the consistent, targeted, and culturally relevant approach that only Black-owned media can provide.

We congratulate Kamala Harris for her extraordinary campaign, but we cannot overlook the critical missteps by the DNC’s operatives and political agencies in failing to see the value of Black-owned media. This wasn’t just a missed opportunity—it was a grave oversight that ultimately contributed to the election’s outcome. By choosing not to invest in

Black-owned platforms, the DNC not only failed to reach Black voters effectively, but it also sent a message that our voices and our influence are not valued.

As Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, once said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” This sentiment resonates deeply in our current political climate, especially as we reflect on the DNC’s decisions this election cycle. Black-owned media must demand its rightful place at the table— not just as a token presence, but as an essential partner in engaging Black voters and amplifying their voices. Chisholm’s words remind us that we cannot wait for recognition; we must assert the value we bring and insist on being heard.

We urge the DNC and its partners to take note of this missed opportunity and to recognize the indispensable role that Black-owned media plays in reaching Black communities. Let this serve as a lesson for the future: if we are to build an inclusive and effective strategy that engages African American voters, the DNC must prioritize meaningful partnerships with Black-owned media. Let’s not make the same mistake again. Next time, let’s invest where it matters. Let’s support the media that resonates with our communities, celebrates our culture, and amplifies our voices. The future of our democracy depends on it. Can you hear us NOW?

Javicia Leslie

RISE TO STARDOM PROVES PASSION AND PREPARATION PAY OFF

By Simone Harvin

For nearly a decade, Javicia Leslie has been firmly and intentionally building her career in entertainment. Once a D.C.based government contractor, Leslie took the end of a work assignment as her chance to move across the country. A chance encounter with her current manager only a month after landing in Los Angeles set the stage for her first act in Hollywood.

“It’s a mix of luck and opportunity meets being prepared,”

Leslie tells Bleu Magazine. “I had no other choice in my head. It’s like,

“This is what I’m going to do. This is what my focus is going to be.”

Leslie’s laser-focused dedication to her craft has resulted in a consistent run in films and TV that started with her breakout role as Samantha Morgan in Lifetime’s Killer Coach. She has already made history in her career, and in addition to never forgetting where she came from, Leslie’s blossoming career reminds girls and women who look like her that anything’s possible.

FROM WASHINGTON, D.C., TO DC COMICS AND THE CW’S FIRST BLACK BATWOMAN

Born in Augsburg, Germany, to parents in the Army, Leslie’s formative years were spent in Maryland’s beloved Prince George’s County, a suburb just outside of Washington, D.C. While preparing for a professional life in business law through studies at Hampton University, her need for artistic expression prompted her participation in local plays and pageants. The actress candidly admits, however, that she never imagined the outlet as a career.

“Never in a million years when I was at Hampton did I think I would go and pursue acting as a full-time job,” she reflects. “I just felt like I love this [and] I’m going to do this while I’m here. I don’t know that I ever thought it [would] be something I was going to pursue forever.”

Leslie’s journey is a lesson in foundation building. Post-college, she returned to D.C. and gained employment with the government. She also fed her creative side with a hosting gig at a local Apollo-style show and brought her first stage play to life. After facing the end of her government contract, Leslie knew it was time to pursue the passion in which she had discovered her most authentic self.

“My job [contract] came to an end, but I knew that if I went into another job, I probably would have stayed, so I took that opportunity to move to LA and follow my dream,” says Leslie.

“Whatever I do next, I want it to be something my soul says, ‘Oh, this is it.’ ”

Leslie credits getting representation early as the key to her experience, which she says has been a “really lucky, safe, [and] blessed journey.”

After starring in several TV series and short films, notably starring as Paris Duncan in The Family Business on the BET+ streaming platform, her history-making breakthrough came in 2021 through one of America’s largest and oldest comic universes—DC Comics. Leslie stepped into the world of DC as Ryan Wilder, an orphaned Gotham resident who stumbles upon the bat suit and commits to avenging her adoptive mother’s murder as Batwoman. Using the newfound focus she discovered during the pandemic pushed Leslie to lean fully into auditioning while staying physical by taking on kickboxing and Muay Thai. Once again, her “stay ready, don’t get ready” mentality created room for a career-defining moment.

“That was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience—taking on a role that, even if you’re not familiar with Batwoman, you’re familiar with Batman,” she reflects. “Taking on any role that’s in a suit and knowing you haven’t seen anyone who looks

like you play these characters before, it feels like a pinch-me moment. I was able to lose myself and fall into the world of Gotham, grinding, working, [and] making sure I could create a world that people could fall in love with [and] lose themselves in.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE ACTRESS?

After embarking on a nonstop six-year run of committing to her craft, Leslie says she’s now ready to slow down and be still. According to Leslie, the next opportunity to come her way has to connect to her “soul.”

“Whatever I do next, I want it to be something my soul says, ‘Oh, this is it,’” she explains. “For that to happen, I just need everything to calm down so I can read scripts and see what really connects with me.”

In addition to exploring her creative callings, the D.C. native remains connected to her hometown through philanthropic efforts with her nonprofit organization, The Chandler Foundation. Serving the Prince George’s community, the organization—inspired by her family’s surname—provides

resources to the area’s brightest young people. The organization gifts backpacks and school supplies at the start of each year, and other similar programs are designed to help PG County youth pursue their biggest dreams. For the holidays, Leslie also partners with other local organizations for a toy giveaway in the NICU unit of Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.

In contemplating what’s next, Leslie is embracing this time in her life, which she believes is preparation for the next act in her adventure. “My spirit is telling me to slow down for a reason,” she shares in anticipation. “There’s another shift that’s about to happen. I feel like it has something to do with me creating.”

In the meantime, Leslie is taking the holidays to enjoy the good feelings of family time and home-cooked meals, making room for her vision to unfold in new ways. A lover of new experiences, she hints at a book in the works but is also interested in other writing projects. Leslie’s “all in” approach to life is an inspirational reminder of the heights you can realize when passionately going after your dreams.

BLACK GEMS DIVE IN

Turning an equity lens on everyday life, Black Gems Dive In pulls back the complex layers of life in inclusive cultures while providing the ingredients for the proper approach to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion as a means of achieving justice. Hosts Kendra Brim and Ekua Mends-Aidoo bring a shared extensive background in civic engagement and social justice to the mic and the masses, covering highly influential and impactful issues that affect the community at large. Tackling everything from election season energy (and respite) and rebranding DEI to live coverage of the Congressional Black Caucus, Kua and Kendra take the bull by the horns and leave no stone unturned when it comes to having these very hard—and very necessary—conversations.

Watch episodes of Black Gems Dive In on YouTube or listen on any podcast platform.

ASAP

ANOTHER SHAWN ALLEN PODCAST

Snatching away the distractions and taking a dive right into the deep end, ASAP—Another Shawn Allen Podcast—deals with the real when it comes to culture, politics, social justice, and much more. Centering conversations that range from the latest Hollywood happenings to celebrities embracing the impact of their platforms to affect change, Shawn and his guest hosts don’t shy away from scandals or seriousness as they shed light on hot topics across the globe. From living in America’s most popular (and ruthless) cities to understanding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, no topic is too tough when Shawn takes it on. And with the entire world as his backdrop, Shawn shows no signs of stopping when bringing his listeners the latest news.

Keep up on the latest ASAP news by following @hearasap on social media. Don’t forget to tune in to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and RSS.

NICE & NEAT PODCAST

Taking a stand to be the change they want to see in the world, the hosts of Nice & Neat the Podcast take their shared experiences to create a safe space where men can be, and women can see. Touching on topics like fitness, fashion, and professional development, Nice & Neat hosts Duke Ihenacho, Jalon Webster, and Omar Bolden dive into discussions based on brotherhood and rooted in the relationship building they all learned with their backgrounds in professional sports and entertainment. With shows that talk about everything from learning from the past and reinventing yourself to keeping the romance spicy in relationships and navigating friendships throughout adulthood, the fellas share stories that help not only each other but also their audience at home. As the founders of MensCon, the team puts on a carefully curated conference that provides a fresh take on how to take charge of every day.

Tune in every Thursday for new episodes of Nice & Neat on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.

THE G CODE

Tapping into the pretty, the ugly, and the grind behind chasing your dreams and achieving greatness, The G Code mixes music and motivation to take charge of mental health. With each episode, host Adriana “ADRI.V the Go Getta” Viverette sits down with her guests—all of whom are affectionately referred to as Go Gettas—as they share leaps taken and lessons learned throughout their journeys to success. A native of Buffalo, New York, ADRI.V always shines a light on her hometown, regularly featuring success stories out of “the frozen tundra” (like Griselda rappers Benny the Butcher, Conway the Machine, and Westside Gunn) along with recaps of A-list events like REVOLT World and Culture Con. It’s safe to say that the G in G Code stands for Grind because that’s how a real Go Getta gets it done.

The G Code airs every Wednesday on podcast platforms across the board.

GLASSES BOTTEGA VENETA LOOK + SHOES LOEWE

INTRODUCING THE KING OF RNBAY

ADRIAN MARCEL

FROM INDUSTRY CO-SIGNS TO CARVING HIS OWN GENRE OF MUSIC, ADRIAN MARCEL IS POISED TO CHANGE THE GAME—ONE EP AT A TIME. By Chris Law

IT'S BEEN A decade since Marcel burst onto the scene with his debut single, “2AM,” a track that not only achieved gold status but also encapsulated the sound of an era. With DJ Mustard’s signature tags and a fusion of club anthems reminiscent of Chris Brown and Jeremih, Marcel carved out a distinctive niche for himself.

Growing up in Oakland, California, he honed his craft at the Oakland School of the Arts, which boasts alumni like Zendaya, Kehlani, and the late Angus Cloud. His summer sessions at the Young Musicians Program at UC Berkeley further shaped him into the artist he is today. Yet, it was the mentorship of legendary Oakland native Raphael Saadiq that truly put Marcel on the map. Saadiq not only championed Marcel but also connected him with icons like Babyface and Stevie Wonder, elevating his musical journey.

Now, as we enter Fall 2024, Marcel is a family man, celebrating seven years of marriage and the joys of fatherhood with three kids. He’s just dropped his latest project, RNBay Season, a sixtrack EP that’s been years in the making. But the path hasn’t always been clear; there were moments when he questioned the direction of his music.

PHOTOGRAPHER OWEN DUCKETT GROOMING ARMANDO “KOLE” KOLESHNICK

STYLIST APUJE KALU

VIDEOGRAPHER BUBBA

VIDEO EDITOR DANTE WILLIAMS

SWEATER CELINE PANTS OFF-WHITE

“I went through a complete reset during that time [during COVID]. I kinda lost that real energy. I feel like I was just making music; I wasn’t making music with a purpose. And I think that’s extremely important—an artist should really have a purpose for why they’re doing what they’re doing,” Marcel explains.

His resurgence began with an unplanned studio session alongside producer Sonny B. “When I hooked up with Sonny B, our conversations were about purpose. We were talking candidly with each other. I think his perspective of me was, ‘Ok, from the music I’ve heard before, what I’ve been able to find of you is not the person I’m getting right now. This person is more unapologetic, a lot more raw.’”

Sonny B, also a Bay Area native, urged Marcel to craft music that reflects his true self and captures the essence of their region. “How does the Bay do R&B? When you think about Chicago, NY, LA, or Atlanta—all of these places have their own distinct way of how they do R&B. For us, who can we think of in our generation that has stamped the Bay’s R&B sound—for the males at least?” he clarifies.

The answer could well be found in his first single, “BIP City,” featuring E-40. It’s an eclectic blend of Hyphy Bass music intertwined with traditional R&B melodies. The title itself is a testament to local culture. “What is something that is Bay Area ASF? What is the stamp from ‘You’re not from The Bay Area unless this?’ I was like, man, if you haven’t gotten bipped for… you’re not from here. It’s a rite of passage,” he laughs. For those unfamiliar, “bipping” refers

" To be honest, it’s probably my first passion. I feel like I’m possibly 1,000 characters."

GLASSES BOTTEGA VENETA JACKET WHO DECIDES WAR SHIRT OFF- WHITE PANTS MEMBERS OF THE RAGE SHOES CELINE

to the often-humorous experience of having your car broken into—typically leaving only a shattered window behind. Marcel takes this common experience and weaves it into clever and poetic storytelling.

“For us, knowing how derogatory that is and how that makes people feel—are we talking about bipping cars? How does that go with R&B? Back in the day, I knew folks were worried about bringing the girl around because the folks in Oakland and Frisco might steal your girl,” says Marcel. “We realized we are talking about bipping your girl and being extremely player. Player is not about cheating or having a bunch of women—it’s an aura. At that moment, we knew this is RNBay.”

With over 100 songs recorded for this project, Marcel approached the release with care. “Giving so much music at one time…

GLASSES GUCCI SHIRT LANVIN PANTS + BOOTS ACNE STUDIOS

" I feel like I was just making music. I wasn’t making music with a purpose. And I think that’s extremely important—an artist should really have a purpose for why they’re doing what they’re doing."

GLASSES BOTTEGA VENETA CARDIGAN AMI

" The next 10 years for me is dope. I thought about this in the whole RNBAY creation. I don’t see myself as one of those artists still trying to make a hit album 10 years from now."

it’s a lot. There’s a lot to take in. There’s so much that’s missed. If you don’t have the budget to continuously keep it in peoples’ faces, you get burned out. You do 40 records, and they’ve heard two of them. We wanted to take people on the same journey that we went with while recording.”

Marcel has also embraced acting, having played James DeBarge in The Bobby DeBarge Story, and he’s eager to explore this avenue further. “With acting, it doesn’t matter how small the role is or what the budget of the movie is—it’s really just the feeling of being able to jump into it and get my chops up. To be honest, it’s probably my first passion. I feel like I’m possibly 1,000 characters.”

As he reflects on a decade since his debut, Marcel has his sights set on the future of the genre he’s helping to define. “I don’t see myself as one of those artists that is still trying to make a hit album 10 years from now. If that happens, that happens. Honestly, I see myself opening the door for artists like myself who have passion, vision, and talent. I want to expand this RNBay genre—it’s bigger than me. When Sonny B and I created this, we knew it wasn’t about an Adrian Marcel comeback. It had to be deeper than that, strong enough of a foundation to be timeless.” With that kind of passion and vision, Adrian Marcel is undeniably on the right path.

JOOLS TV

THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL THAT TURNS EDUCATION INTO ADVENTURE AND FUN-FILLED LESSONS By Dr. Dominique Carson

CJOOLS TV IS an educational edutainment platform on YouTube launched by Justin and Patrice Brim. It leverages animation to create engaging and educational content for children. Conjoining vibrant visuals with interactive storytelling, JOOLS TV aims to make learning enjoyable and accessible. The channel covers a wide range of topics, from basic literacy, numeracy, basic science, and social skills, all presented in a way that captures young viewers’ attention.

The shows also foster a love of learning by integrating fun characters and catchy songs. JOOLS TV transforms educational concepts into entertaining adventures, making it a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to enrich children’s learning experiences. The Brims say losing their eldest son JJ (Justin) unexpectedly at the age of three was the motivating force behind creating a show that would represent their children and family dynamic. The Brims welcomed two more sons, Jett and Jhy, and in 2020, they created JOOLS TV and had their youngest son three years later. JJ’s death inspired the Brims to identify a problem, create a solution, be self-starters, and think outside the box with business, which was the show.

“The core reason behind the JOOLS animated show was to make sure that we memorialize our son, JJ. Also, we were looking in the space to serve the big-time void. There was nothing in the animation spaces that represented people of color. And,

you know, we want to make sure that we created a solution for that for our black and brown children,” said Justin Brim.

The name “JOOLS” is an acronym for “Jays of Our Lives” and a metaphor for wisdom and knowledge in hip-hop culture. The channel, funded by the family without external support, aims to represent people of color in animation and educate children. It has garnered praise from celebrities like Missy Elliott, Ciara and Russell Wilson, Michael B. Jordan, NFL linebacker Alexander Johnson,

would look at each other like, hey, this is really happening. And it was just a bigger push for us to continue what we’re doing and elevate JOOLS TV to the next level.”

However, to get the show off the ground, the Brims utilized their personal finances but didn’t quite realize that animation is expensive. They didn’t do crowdfunding or ask for donations, which was more gratifying for the couple. With JOOLS TV, they introduced to their children generational wealth by monetizing content on social

They are loud, loud, loud, but at the same time, they are such a blessing, and we’re just so grateful to God that they trusted us to be their parents, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

and Cardi B, which was a surplus and an amazing feeling for the Brim family.

“We just realized, you know what, I think we’re doing something that people really appreciate. I mean, we understood that early on, when you know the viewers, our supporters, were just loving our music that we were putting out, they were just so happy that they can vibe to something that their kids listen to and not be bored with it,” said Patrice Brim. “But then to see like, you know, certain celebrities come out and tell us how dope it is, it was just like, my husband and I

media. The family emphasized ownership, entrepreneurship, and age-appropriate content, involving their other children in the creative process.

“It’s absolutely something we think highly of; ownership is something that we always promote in our household, owning whatever you do and not even saying from a business standpoint, but just owning something that, like whatever you’re gonna do, you gotta give it 100% first part,” said Justin Brim. “The second part is we are entrepreneurs. So we are definitely teaching our children at the

Olevel that those lessons I started off as a young entrepreneur as well. So I understood, you know, some of the lessons that I was taught as a kid and how I can incorporate that with them, letting them understand what this is that they are part of. Because, you know, but they’re on a lot of the songs, like they do backgrounds, they do different things.”

Despite their young ages, the Brims’ children, ages eight, six, four, and seven months, play a significant role in the project. The couple is committed to creating content that their children can be proud of, and they often seek their approval for the songs that premiere on the show. The children are described as the ‘CEOs’ of the operation, a testament to their influence on the platform.

“We’ll, like, gather everybody together, talk to them, see what’s going on, like through school or through extracurricular activities, what they have a problem with. And sometimes, you know, they just put their two cents in and say, hey, you know what

would be cool if we did x, y, and z? So they’re very helpful in the process. If it’s us asking or they’re coming up to us. Usually, it’s us asking. That’s how it started. But, you know, they kind of see how everything is flowing along. So they’ll put their input, and we’ll listen,” said Patrice Brim.

Although the children are different, the Brims like to describe them as well-behaved, respectful, curious, confident, wanting to know the answers to everything, challenging you but not in a disrespectful way, God-given, and loud.

“They are loud, loud, loud, but at the same time, they are such a blessing, and we’re just so grateful to God that they trusted us to be their parents, and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Patrice. “It’s important to allow the children to let them be themselves; it’s just a sense of comfort.”

The Brims manage to keep the show’s content age-appropriate and child-friendly by realizing that children are the audience

and not to use profanity in front of them and by introducing mental health by creating the song “Breathe.” The Brims also have to follow their instincts and figure out how much information a child can digest because children are a lot smarter than they appear to be in front of adults. They realized that anything the children want to know should come from them so they can decipher what’s real, what’s not, what’s good or bad, and make their own decisions.

In addition to JOOLS TV, the Brims published their first children’s book, “JJ Affirmations.” It was already an idea in the works, but JJ’s passing reopened it. The affirmations book was a great way to diversify their portfolio. Justin describes the book as a “one-stop shop, everything you need, from newborn to, you know, 10 years old. You could probably find her on our network.”

As the Brims continue to build the catalog for JOOLS TV, they balance their home life and marriage by getting everything done

because they want the show to elevate to the next level. So, for their children to do well, they incorporate the phrase, “When there’s a will, there’s a way.”

“We have really dedicated ourselves to each other and our family, our legacy, and I think the best thing is understanding one another,” said Justin. “So I know when she needs me to do more, she knows I need her to do more without us ever having to verbalize that. And we know that while we are doing this, it is more important than what we do. If we try to make a difference in the world, trying to preserve a legacy for all of our children, we’re trying to empower other people and inspire other people. Everything in life you have to be balanced with, and we found our balance. And like you said, even though we’re having a new baby, we had to find a new balance. So it’s just about identifying the problem and creating a solution once again.”

Within four years, JOOLS TV has over

K P Q O A H N K C C C O I C

M

500,000 subscribers on YouTube and more than 100 million views. Future plans include diversifying their portfolio and potentially collaborating with Netflix. Justin and Patrice are working on spin-offs of JOOLS TV, such as “Ms. P,” the JOOLS TV Version of Ms. Rachel, but they will continue to produce content that educates, inspires, entertains, and encourages families to be actively involved in their children’s education and learning.

While the other projects are hush-hush, JOOLS TV welcomes collaborations, especially with celebrities, including them in the content, celebrity parents, and more episodes, more input, and a variety of content for viewers. The show will continue to promote positive values, such as kindness, confidence, teamwork, and diversity. JOOLS TV is a fun and educational show that provides important life lessons and builds strong values in young viewers from all backgrounds.

“Staying true to the purpose is the first thing, you know. So, I mean, we try to take that verse in a lot of different things. If you look, we got some other characters that pop up that are not black, just so it’s not just all for us, but it is for us. And always say, you know, we do it right for everybody. We always welcome people into our stuff. Hip hop never excluded anybody,” said Justin Brim. “You know, I’m saying it’s the same thing with the channel. We’re not excluding anybody. We just want to make sure that we are properly represented.”

Hotels, Resorts and B&Bs BLACK OWNED

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Anguilla

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Salamander Resort & Spa

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Concord Quarters

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Goodtime Hotel

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FATMAN SCOOP

A HIP-HOP PIONEER WHO ENERGIZED GENERATIONS

By Dr. Dominique Carson

WHEN IT COMES TO VOICES that define a party, few can deny the everlasting presence of Fatman Scoop. Born Isaac Freeman, III, the Grammy Award-winning hype man, producer, and radio personality has been the heartbeat of countless celebrations, leaving an indelible mark on hiphop, R&B, and club culture. His larger-than-life persona, unrelenting energy, and iconic voice have cemented his legacy as a true pioneer of the entertainment world.

Fatman Scoop first captured the world's attention in 2003 with the chart-topping single "Be Faithful," a dance anthem song featuring infectious samples from one of Faith Evans' iconic records, "Love Like This." It was originally released in 1999 and became a minor hit in the United States. The lyric, "You gotta 100 dollar bill, get your hands up!" became not just a lyric but a universal phrase that brought people to their feet in nightclubs, festivals, and arenas worldwide. The song's success reached number one in the UK and became a cornerstone in global DJ sets while introducing millions to Scoop's ability to turn any track into a party. His chants became an international phenomenon, and his booming calls to action—"Put your hands up!" and "Let me hear you scream!" reminded people to celebrate life and be carefree, even if it was just a moment in time.

Scoop continued to grab people's attention when he collaborated with other top-tier acts, such as Missy Elliott, Faith Evans, Mariah Carey, and Pitbull. His musical contributions were also included in the 2004 dance film

"You Got Served," which solidified his role for movement on the dance floor and the big screen. When he said, "Music makes you lose control," in Missy Elliott's song, "Lose Control," it became the central foundation for the song. His chemistry with Missy and Ciara on the record was undeniable, and he presented his iconic hype man role and became the energetic anchor for the ladies.

Scoop's voice connects with audiences from all walks of life, and his artistry is impeccable. However, he was most respected for his transparency because he didn't have a problem being passionate and bold in the music business. Over the years, Scoop remained relevant despite the evolution of the music business, proving his talent and personality are timeless. His online presence and live performances inspired fans, old and new, indicating that age would not hinder his energy or passion for music

Unfortunately, the hip-hop legend passed away in August 2024 after collapsing at a concert in Connecticut, and it was announced he was diagnosed with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. But Fatman Scoop is a legend whose sound will echo forever. His work reminds us that celebration is an essential part of life and that a single voice, presented with confidence and purpose, can unite people. The industry will remember a hype man like Fatman Scoop because he made you feel alive when you heard him on tracks, and his energy was unfiltered. As fans continue to raise their hands and lose themselves in his music, one thing is sure: Fatman Scoop is more than just a voice. He's the heartbeat of every party, and his impact will be felt for a lifetime.