DELUX Magazine Winter 2010/2011

WINTER 2010 | 2011 $4.99 USD

NELLY & THE LUNATICS | REASSEMBLED

• BRADD YOUNG • DEMOND MEEK • LOLA • IAM!!!

• DWELE • CASE • MASTERY OF THE DRUNK TEXT • TRIFECTA • ROCKWELL KNUCKELS • BROOKLYN DELUX MAGAZINE

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STAFF

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Keith N Griffin II EDITOR IN CHIEF/PUBLISHER @DeluxMagazine Lawrence Bryant Photography Director @lbfoto1 Michael Winfield Creative Director @brklynstl Kyle Griffin Marketing & Promotion @DeluxPromo Seven Maxwell Editorial Director @sevenmaxwell314 Fashion Directors Darren Nesbitt Cheree Oliver Jessica Buck MUA/Stylist Gorgeous Camille Scott Maria Antoinette Writers Seven L. Maxwell Tiffany S. Nashville Katheryn Washington-Shipley Bell Darris Keena Alexander De’Marja Patrick Photographers Lawrence Bryant Jay Kene KBKLICKS Keith N Griffin II

Featured Artist: Brooklyn

Kingsboro

Graphic Designers Tamika Butler Demetria Smith-Bryant The Fresh Concept Chris Draper For Advertising Rates/Information call 314.335.7374/314.884.8173 or email ads@delux-mag.com

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Contributors WWW.DELUX-MAG.COM

DELUX contributors are the best and the brightest in the St. Louis area. With each issue, DELUX is looking for fresh perspectives to contribute to the most diverse publication in the city. While contributing to DELUX, you’ll have the opportunity to join the very-talented team of professionals who keep this publication fresh. So if you’re at the top of your craft and you’re looking to add publishing credits to your portfolio, DELUX is for you! For article submissions, email Seven L. Maxwell at Seven@DELUX-Mag.com

Editor’s Notes

Y

ES!!! we are still here & have no plans of going anywhere. DELUX Magazine is excited and proud of the changes we have in store for 2011. The first difference Im sure you already realized is the size.

I figured since everything on GODs GREEN EARTH grows why shouldn’t we. Along with a few layout changes Im sure you will enjoy our new “look”. There are iphone and andoid apps that are readily available. Whats cool about this is that you can always have the digital version of the mag right in your back pocket. The reconstruction of the website is another tweak we added. Oh! Before I forget-- see that barcode at the bottom of my letter.... scan that barcode with your iphone or android barcode app and it gives you all access to DELUX-- try it. Its cool. We are definitely poised to break conformity & redefine a universal lifestyle; this publication is a personal replication of how “WE THE PEOPLE” see and interpret Lifestyle, Fashion, Art, and Music all through the eyes of true trendsetters and tastemakers.

WE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO NOT ONLY DARED CHANGE BUT EMBRACED IT. So call us crazy. Let’s Make History.

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THE LIFESTYLE.

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DEMOND MEEK

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WRITTEN BY: SEVEN L. MAXWELL PHOTOGRAPHY: LAWRENCE BRYANT

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t’s no secret: Demond Meek is an amazing photographer. But what most people don’t realize is the same confident camera-man who masterfully directs his shoots with care and candor, is simply a humble young man with a vision; currently sifting through his successes, and working his way back to the heart of his craft.

As a product of a single-parent household, Meek’s mother supported his creativity, so it was no surprise when the then, architecture student at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville announced to her that his life-long dream of being an architect was slowly fading and photography was now at the forefront of his heart’s true contentment. “I have a really cool mom. She raised my brother and I with a real long leash. If we wanted to do something, we did it. Still to this day, she supports, and I’m lucky,” says Meek as we begin to stroll through his journey as a photographer.

From the moment Meek picked up a camera he knew photography was for him. But his dream of being an architect wasn’t one he was willing to let go of instantly. “It was a very trying time. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be an architect. When I was in 5th or 6th grade, I was in class drawing floor plans with a straight edge ruler.” Meek continued, “When I got to college, those dreams were diminishing, and it was hard because everything I thought up until that point was changing—fast.” “Architecture is a real slow process and you have to work a long time before it will manifest. As a student, your drawings will never exist except on paper. But those instant results of photography were amazing. Once I got that camera in my hand, I knew it was a wrap!”

Armed with his first Nikon point and shoot style camera, Meek taught himself the results of the various settings on his camera as he shot subjects related to his original passion—architecture. He combined his enthusiasm for images in architectural publications and his eye for architecture as he began shooting buildings and landscapes. It was those lessons learned in school that prepared him for his new skill. “I excel because I have that understanding of space, depth, and light—which are all big in architecture. Those tools such as spatial understanding, perception, depth, and perspective are carried over to my photography work”. Shooting landscapes produced great results, but in an attempt to diversify his portfolio and grow in his hobby, he eventually worked on the art of communication and expanded his horizons and began shooting people as the center of his creativity. “I love to make people look larger than life—whether it is a business man, or an athlete. Capturing the moment isn’t as exciting to me as creating the moment. I think my strength is being able to visually tell a story with one or a series of images. Creating moments is what drives me”.

As Meek continued carving his craft, his reputation began to grow. Before he knew it, his camera had landed him in a position that could prospectively propel onto a national platform. “I went from being a freelance, amateur photographer to being in the largest commercial advertising/photography studios in the country—overnight. There was no build up to that. I felt an immense pressure to do things on a higher level”. Meek confessed, “I stepped my game up to a certain extent, but I didn’t know if what I was doing was me. I was chasing dollars, to a certain extent, I was chasing fame.”

During this time, Meek had built quite a reputation. He landed the opportunity to shoot local and national campaigns such as Caterpillar, Champs Sports, Advocate Health Care, The Marcus Graham Project, Ameren UE, and Muck Boots; to name a few.

His work has also been featured in local publications such as DELUX Magazine, St. Louis Magazine, and now defunct, Hipster Magazine—which is just the tip of the iceberg. Of all the clients he’s photographed, Meek’s eyes lit up when he recalled an assignment that took him to several inner-city schools to take pictures of the students, and the impact that his presence had on the children. His eyes told the story before his lips could form the words. They told of his true passion—making a difference— something he wouldn’t be able to do as long as he was bounded by the guidelines that he was forced to adhere to. Yes, he was making the money with this large photography studio; however, he soon realized the corporate politics of his profession would soon stifle his creativity, forcing him to choose between his love and his livelihood.

Meek did make a decision. He stepped out on faith in an attempt reignite the fire that once burned from within. “I’m a Virgo, so by nature, I’m not really satisfied by what’s in front of me. I always want more. I want to go further with my career. It’s that never-ending hunger for more, for better, for progression that really just drives me to look within myself and challenge myself to be better”. He transitioned from a place that provided him with the opportunity to live comfortably and travel with assignments across the country. Instead, he settled for creative control and peace of mind. He refused to become complacent because of compensation, and instead chose the adventure of going out and making a name for himself—his way.

“In the last couple of weeks, I’ve been doing a lot of soul searching and going back to my old stuff. Looking at where I came from. Looking at my roots. That—in my opinion—was the best. Those are the pictures that landed me into one of the largest photography studio in the country.” Meek continued, “But I didn’t get into this just for the money. I got into this because I wanted to do something that I loved. If I found something that I enjoyed, I wanted to have fun doing it. And if I made some money doing it—great! But on top of all this, I have to be happy.

“I am very happy right now. I’m forging ahead. I’m optimistic. I’m in a place right now that is much healthier—where creativity is encouraged. I’m considered as an asset. I have no excuses at this point. I’m happy. The only thing that’s stopping me now is me.” Meek concluded, “From here on out is about rebuilding, getting those creative juices flowing, expressing myself, and hopefully make some money while making an impact”.

Pictures really are worth a thousand words; and no matter what language a publication is printed in, his photos speak loud and clear. Demond Meek is rebuilding and his legacy is certain to outlast time through the visions expressed through his photographs.

Photos Courtesy of Demond Meek pg 23-24

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DELUXSTYLE When getting prepared for that night of spirited fun.

Most rookies try to over do it and over compensate for their lack of swag moxy with skinny jeans and loud colors. What we did was step inside our Editor-in-Chief’s closet and see what his nightlife “uniform” consists of and how he prepares for a night behind the velvet ropes.

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4 WAYS TO RUIN A BACHELOR PARTY

1. Leaving the soon to be groom behind This is rule #1. It is his day, so the ball is always in his hands.

He may need some prodding to partake in certain activities throughout the day, but ultimately everything you guys do is his call. So if he doesn’t want to go to the next bar–then nobody goes to the next bar without his permission. It’s just common decency. Getting married only happens on two or three occasions in lifetime. Weddings are the woman’s day.

Bachelor parties are the man’s day. Try and remember that he’ll be the guy planning your bachelor party. You screw him over on his day and he has every right to do the same to you.

2. Pass out at an inappropriate time or place Guys usually get pretty drunk at bachelor parties. And by “pretty” I mean “fall down, pretend to hump inanimate objects, stupid” drunk. But if you’re gonna drink like an idiot, you had better be able to keep yourself out of trouble. Nobody wants to be in the middle of the bar and ask, “Where the hell is Johhny?” Well, Johnny had a few too many shots of Patron and is currently passed out in the ball pit at a McDonald’s Playland. Bad form, Johnny.

Now demoted from honarary wingman. -SMH

DELUXSTYLE

GOT BOTTLES? Everyone loves a good time. Whether your idea of a good time is snuggling up with the family for game night, or reading a book in the bath—you like a certain order to them. Sipping and celebrating life in the club is no different. Below are 5 tips to consider while partying in VIP to make your night successful:

This includes the tag-a-longs, and friendsof-friends. It doesn’t matter how close you are to the person who is friends with the person buying—this is not a free-forall. Wait until a drink is offered, or order your own. Instead of draining the supply, how about you disappear into the crowd as if it were time to pay the tab.

TIP #1: Instead of bragging about how much you spent on the bottle; toot your own horn about the tip you left your hospitality hostess (aka waitress), whom you worked to death all night. Treating her as if you’ve rented the club and not just a table, you expect service instantly; which will never happen in a place where VIP tables are plentiful, and your money isn’t.

TIP #4: Times are hard, and although it’s highly unlikely that you’ll finish a bottle of Ciroc alone, VIP is no fun without friends.

So how about you and your henchmen ante-up on a table and party all night as you all share bottles of booze. This carpool concept is only going to work if everyone is equally equipped to pay the tab and no one feels they should be body-guarding the bottle. If there is a dispute at the end of the night, offer to pay the difference and lose anyone who was arguing—you’re out of their league.

TIP #2: As excited as you are about sneaking behind the velvet rope, avoid the embarrassment of being escorted outside because you’ve mistakenly interpreted eye contact as an invitation into the VIP. If you weren’t personally invited, stay away!

If one wanted to be in an overcrowded atmosphere, they would’ve just come in before 10 when it was free and stand around scoping the scene, just like you.

TIP #3: Remember: This is V-I-P! The bottles will be coming, and unless you are a part of the party—don’t touch them!

TIP #5: Review TIP #1. Tipping is the most successful form of recognition. If you want the true VIP treatment, go into an establishment a few times and let your money do the talking. Slide the tip to your hospitality hostess as you’re ordering your first bottle and watch how the service flows. The true VIP experience of Vegas can be created in a club at home. It’s just a matter of making it happen for you.

words by: Seven L. Maxwell

3. Throw it at a place nobody wants to go

A dive bar, a golf course, strip club, the Super Bowl, and Vegas are all places that most guys would enjoy spending a few hours drinking and laughing. Miniature golf, church meetings, anything having to do with Anita Baker or a night at the opera are probably places that will bore your party right back to their hotel. Venue is everything during a bachelor party. It sets the tone for the night. So it’s important to find a place everyone will have a good time. If all else fails just take a vote and book wherever it is that most people (and the groom) want to go.

4. Accidently kill a stripper

Not cool! Definitely not a good look. Does this actually happen? Not from my bachelor party experience. Not only will the Groom have a huge legal situation on his hands-he will more than likely still get married. Only problem IS -- he’ll be marrying Bubba instead of Betty and becoming a bride instead of the groom. But if movies have taught us anything, it’s that you should always have a shovel in the trunk when attending a bachelor party. Better safe than sorry. * Very Bad Things 1998.

“DELUX Magazine does not cadone violence. This article is meant as sarcasm and is just for kicks and giggles.”

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DELUXFILMS

WRITTEN BY: KEENA ALEXANDER

he men of Dealership sure know how to bring out that full belly laugh of its audience.

Dealership is a random yet witty web series developed by Todd Spence, Rodger Johnson and Zak White. The show centers on five guys, Spence, Johnson, Shawn Kohne, Paul Goetz and Danny Barton who work at Barkley car dealership. In the 5 to 8-minute webisodes, you’ll find it impossible to hold in your laughter, and if you don’t crack one smile, you don’t have a sense of humor what so ever and probably should never watch television or movies or participate in life.

Where did this all start? It started in the St. Louis area, but more specifically Farmington, MO. Spence, Johnson and Barton attended high school there. Then the high school gang, White, and the Garter brothers- Sean, Nick and Dan met at Webster University in St. Louis. Dan is the Executive Producer of Dealership and Sean and Nick codirect along side White.

There are eight webisodes in the first season. The guys encounter several quagmires that range from a curse from a crusty, old gypsy to tripping on LSD-all occurring during hours of operation, of course.

All of the episodes are very different. There is no running plot except the character’s idiosyncrasies.

Chuck Barkley’s, the owner of the car dealership and Rodger Johnson’s character, has the poorest management skills and concentrates on the most unimportant aspects of the business. Marty Freebrook’s, Todd Spence’s character, has diabetes and he’ll freak if a drop of sugar touches his lips, Grant Kind’s, Shawn Kohne’s character, makes the weirdest and most inappropriate comments ever heard by human ears. Russell Rimshot, Paul Goetz’s character, is somehow the most naive people on Earth, yet he is one of the only characters concerned with the dealership not making its sales goals.

If you like Showtime’s Eastbound and Down or FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Dealership should definitely be added to your favorite show line up. You can watch Dealership, the webseries, at www.dealershiptheseries.com.

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BARKLEY

OWNER Chuck Barkley started working for his late father in the summer of 1982 at the ripe old age of 10! After inheriting the Barkley Auto Supercenter in the summer of 1992 Chuck and his crack team of sales people have swept the annual “Ted Klenary Memorial Carsies!”

Awards for the past decade! Chuck is also a prominent member in the community, holding seats on the city and county council with rumored rumblings that he’s considering a run for Mayor! Or Sheriff! Whichever has the biggest gun! Chuck enjoys spending time by himself!

FREEBROOK

SALES Marty Freebrook joined the Barkley Automotive team in 1987 after turning down a lucrative offer from Macintosh computers and hasn’t looked back since! Through the years, Marty has received five Thumpleton Awards and seven Bambledan Certificates, presented by Charles Barkley himself. And after all of these years and 48 sold cars later, Marty Freebrook still prides himself on great customer service and fast customer service with a big slice of good job in between the two proverbial slices of service bread previously mentioned literally a second ago.

KIND

SALES Grant Kind once stacked two hundred pennies on top of each other. His delicate hands and powerful lip muscles can also sell the hell out of a car. As the oldest member of the Barkley Automotive team, Grant has the wisdom and experience to find people the cars of their dreams. He also has the silky skin, and once again, powerful lip muscles to give ladies a night they won’t soon forget. When not at work, Grant helps out at homeless shelters and children’s hospitals, which are the names of his two favorite strip clubs.

RIMSHOT

SALES Russell Rimshot was traded to Barkley Automotive in 2005 when the savings and loan he worked for needed four new tires.

To this date, Barkley still hasn’t paid his end of the bargain, but Russell has made himself right at home. His signature shadow puppets never fail to delight a client and his “Down Home Logrolls” have placed second in every Pollok County Bakery Challenge in the last decade! In his off time he enjoys writing children’s mystery novels set in the Old West.

In his on time he enjoys selling good cars to nice people. And swell cars to dandy people.

OTIS

MECHANIC Otis Molasses Flytrap was born in an abandoned car on a cold winter night in the summer of 1980. In his early years Otis spent many days chopping wood. Alone in the woods, just himself and his axe. Learning how to get a good, strong swing. Later in life Otis would spend time at Blackburn Correctional Complex, Nevada State Penitentiary, back to Blackburn Correctional Complex, then onto the last stint of his time at Maple Springs Correctional Facility before being so inspired by a visit from Chuck Barkley and Grant Kind that he knew he had to work with such stellar individuals! Otis is alright!

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DELUXFILMS

We were able to catch up with Todd Spence, who also happens to work in the offices of Jimmy Kimmel Live, for a quick Q&A. DM:What kind of comedy would you consider Dealership?

TS:There is the slapstick element, but it can definitely be broader than that. Like we’re not like the Three Stooges where we hurt each other all the time, but [a character] could easily fall off a cliff. It’s just very random yet centralized to the characters in their somewhat mediocrity, but it’s comedic at the same time.

DM:What comedy series or show would you compare Dealership to?

TS:I know Danny would compare the show to It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and I can see that, but I personally compare the comedy to Eastbound and Down because they swear a lot. You would never want to hang out with them, but I guess the things they do are so surprising and so random that you may want to hang out with them. They’re pretty awesome people but at the same time they’re so random and ridiculous that it might be kind of fun.

DM:Where do you guys usually film?

TS:We have filmed in Washington, MO and then in St. Charles, MO. Right now we’re looking for funding or investors to provide a budget so that we can shoot more of these. That’s kind of the plan right now. If we do get funding, we’re going to try to shoot in Los Angeles.

DM:On average, how many viewers do you get per week?

TS:At this point, I don’t really know I guess because we are still building an audience. We have almost 1500 fans on Facebook and we set up [the account] last May. Our numbers keep building, but we haven’t reached our peak yet where we’re like, “Let’s see how we’re doing!”

fun and two we want to be prepared when the funding comes and we can start shooting.

DM:What’s going on with the second season?

DM:I read that Dealership is being shopped by a few cable networks….

TS:We are actually just writing more 5-minute episodes with the same expectancy of the same thing we did with the first season --release 10, 5-minute webisodes. But we don’t really have all the funding in place. But we are continuing to write because for one it’s

TS:If possible, yeah. We’ve been talking to a few networks. I can’t really say who, but nothing has been completely sold yet.

We’re just trying to make it happen.

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Words by: Bill Jackson

Technology is great. And, what it makes possible, is even greater. But with great power, comes great responsibility. Enter the ‘text message’. When used sober, it is an innocuous, nay, efficient means by which to communicate. Add booze, and you got some fun.

Add too much booze, and some indiscretion, however, and you have a recipe for disaster. And so we took the liberty of putting together a basic guide for those who are unaware of the acceptable and unacceptable drunk texting protocol. Enjoy.

THE

DO’s & DONT’s 1. Text an ex when you find out he/she has recently become single.

Nothing delights the senses more than finding out that an ex has just recently become single. After being dumped he/she is going to need a shoulder to lean on, and a place to rest his/her back. The time has come to regain what was once lost, at least for the night.

2. Text before 3 a.m Most people want to know who they’re going to end up with at the end of the night. Make sure you plan the hook-up in advance before booty call hours approach, and go out in the same vicinity of your prospective hook-up partner. Later, suggest bailing out of your respective parties and hooking up together, he/she will be just inebriated enough to say ‘yes’, and impressed with your planning skills.

3. Keep the texts short and sweet.

Size does not always matter when it comes to text messaging. Use exclamation points and smiley faces after sending flattering texts. It will reduce mistakes and have them skinny dipping in no time.

1. Do not get a number and then text him/hercontinually all night You will look like a straight stalker if you send fifteen messages about coming over to your friends party after the bar. “Come to my friends party.” “It’s gonna be cool!” “Where you at?” He/She did not go home with you for a reason, she barely knows you. Easy turbo. Don’t seem so thirsty.

2. Do not sext one guy/girl while having a normal conversation with another fling The possibility of sending a raunchy message to the wrong person should scare you. “Oops, that one wasn’t meant for you, haha,” is not an acceptable excuse.

3. Do not drunk text if you live at home with your parents Living at home with your parents is a major turn off. It’s an even bigger turn off than when you had five people living in your two bedroom apartment. Unless your Will Ferrel’s character, in Wedding Crashers, there is no point in even trying. “MOM! MORE MEATLOAF!!!” Get your own place.

4. Do not text an ex if you’re not over it yet

Example: “Hot tub again? : )”

4. Text with persistence but NO stalking.

Patience is a virtue, and persistence gets the job done. How many times has one heard a story about how some lame pulled someone out their league? If you show enough interest he/she will eventually cave in and give you a shot.

There is a reason why he/she dumped you. He/She can hear the tear drops falling on your iphone, as you misspell everything and barely make sense. Fumbling over words while being wasted and desperate will not get him/her back. It will only worsen the situation.

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DELUXTALK

THE DIRTY MACK Words by: @Atrain314 and @SevenMaxwell314

Dirty Mack \ˈdər-tē ˈmak\ verb: usually involves putting down or dishing the dirt on another person instead of promoting oneself in order win the courtship of another. noun: a person who practices the art of deception to gain the attention of another.

4Her

Types of Dirty Macking:

4Him 1)

The Nice Guy--This dirty mack acts and pretends

that he is Mr. Nice Guy and wants to treat a woman like a queen—even though he is a dog himself. He talks down on any other guy and tells females he isn’t like other guys, but usually never gives any concrete details on how he is different. He often waits until you’re in the presence of women before teasing you about an embarrassing incident—resulting in them laughing and taking an interest in him while leaving you watching her bag as they dance together until the lights come on.

2)

Undercover Informant—This dirty mack

is usually your “friend”. He uses the inside information he has on you to feed to a young lady he is interested in. Most guys fancy a select few females, so he uses this incriminating info to put his bid in before you have the chance to get in good with her. This information could also come through pillow-talk, as he uses your tales of mischief as bed-time stories for his boo—who also happens to be your girl’s favorite cousin.

3) Internet stalker—This dirty mack preys on a girl’s Facebook or Twitter account and moves in when he see her boyfriend has done something to anger her. He usually steps up and plays the role of comforting friend.

His ulterior motives will soon surface.

The Queen B—This dirty mack finds weak women to befriend as a means of making them her puppet. By only inviting you to “girl’s night” events and introducing you to all the fine single men she knows, she’s subtly making you miss the single life—which she is by the way. She usually has nothing but negative things to say about your man’s most sincere efforts. Her intentions are to make you single. Not because she wants him, but she wants you. Not for physical gratification, but for mental satisfaction instead. Remember, she can’t control you if someone else is pulling your strings.

1)

The Paparazzi—This dirty mack (and her friends) seem to always be where the action is—especially when it’s pertaining to your man. She always sees him on various scenes and social settings and constantly reports his actions abroad. Be careful with this friend, because if her word doesn’t get you to react in the manner in which she prefers, she’ll turn up the heat and start sending you random photos—catching him in action—from her new 8 megapixel, Evo.

2)

3) The Mini-Me—This dirty mack is always interested in your story. She wants to know where you get your: hair done; that blouse; those ear rings; that bra— which offers so much support; your jeans—because you share the same problem: small waist, big butt—and can never find jeans that fit; your shoes, and that bag. If there’s an event, she’s on your line, inquiring about your wardrobe selection. Too hell with being like Mike, she’d rather be like you—in every way, including wanting to be with your man. Be careful around her. She’s likely to tear a page from the script of Single White Female.

After all, she’d kill to be you.

Words by: James Griffin

F

Photo courtesy of www.tahiryonline.com

lirting is an important behavior that is both complex and fundamental. Everyone in the world, at some point in their lives will need to acquaint themselves with the art of flirtation if they want to experience the pleasures of the opposite sex. While there are mountains of advice to guide men on how to flirt effectively, that’s only half the story.

Men must also be able to recognize the signs she’s flirting. While any one of these visual cues taken alone often won’t constitute a green light, a combination of multiple flirtatious cues should pique your interest.

So, we’ve decided to lay down some distinct signs she’s flirting with you, so you can recognize the bait she’s laid for your affections. Women can sometimes be hard to read, but if you’re armed with a guide to signs she’s flirting, then you’re already one step ahead.

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She Smiles When a woman has an interest in you, her smile can hold your attention from across a crowded room and it is definitely one of the major signs she’s flirting. It takes an effort on her part to do so, so if she’s exerting this kind of effort, engage in her flirting by returning the smile.

9

She keeps walking by If it seems like she continues to walk by with apparently no sense of why she’s there, she’s there for you. She’s trying to get you to notice her with this obvious sign she’s flirting, and you need to say something endearing.

By walking past repeatedly, perhaps out of her way, she’s giving you a sense that she wants your attention, but she’s making you work for it.

8

She draws attention to her mouth A woman’s mouth can be extremely seductive, and she’s fully aware of this fact. Some of the effective signs she’s flirting will have her applying lip gloss, running her finger across her lip or using the straw in her cocktail instead of just sipping from the glass. There is a tremendous amount of flirtatious energy tied up in a woman’s lips. Lips are flirting tools that are both potent and effective.

7

She Isolates herself If, after having made eye contact, she strays from her pack, then she’s trying to flirt with you. Women know that the most difficult defense for a man to penetrate is her wall of friends and well-wishers. If she’s specifically removing herself from that fortress then this is one of the sure signs she’s flirting and letting you know she’s lowering her defensive barriers to let you in. (more pg 86)

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:15/w Corece Mark DM: You’re a writer, actor, filmmaker, and photographer.

How long have you been doing these different forms of artistry?

MC: I’d say I’ve been in photography and films for a good 7 or 8 years, and I feel like they have gone hand-in-hand for me in what I do. I also feel like when you think about capturing an image, whether it is with a video camera or a still camera, you kind of have to think about the construction of that. But I formally studied photography and filmmaking.

As far as writing, I’d say I’ve been writing for a good four years now and at the same time all my life.

DM: I can see how professional writers have been writing since high school or even since they can remember.

MC: And yeah, that’s true because I hold on to

everything. I remember being in elementary school and instead of going outside to play, I’d be in my room writing, thinking about art, or creating things. Doing that just proved to me that this is my passion.

DM: So when was your ah-ha! moment?

MC: For me, I remember being in high school and I had a friend who was attending Webster University and working on a film. He asked me to help out. It was funny because at that moment, I didn’t really know what I wanted to go to school for, and I never really thought about filmmaking as a career or even something I wanted to do at all. I think it was always in the back of my mind. While working on this film, I fell in love with the process. I was introduced to the dirty part of it as well as the fun parts.

DM: I notice that most of your work is culturally thought provoking. What emotions are you aiming to stir up with your work?

MC: I think it’s like a retrospective thing for me because when I’m capturing things, I’m not thinking about the emotions I’m trying to stir up. It’s more of my connection to it. If I have something that I’m drawn to emotionally or even just aesthetically, then I’m going to try my best to capture that. And I think this particular exhibit, [Hanging Dry], is bringing all those things together because I’m asking people to look at different cultures and different ideas and how we are all brought together. It’s always about solidarity to me.

DM: Your Hanging Dry Photo Exhibit is a prelude leading into your upcoming documentary, Freedom of Identity. What made you explore the Puerto Rican history and culture?

MC: Yes, it’s more so allowing people to get into my brain a little bit because people often ask me—as someone who

isn’t Puerto Rican—why did you decide to create this documentary? And it was more because I instantly connected with their struggle. For me, as someone who’s not only an artist, but someone who is a social activist, I couldn’t let that go.

DM: How long have you been working on Freedom of Identity?

MC: I’ve been working on it for about 2 years now and it’s not quite finished.

It’s going through an interesting editing process.

DM: Did you get a chance to visit Puerto Rico?

MC: Yes, I spent about a month there filming and talking to people and just becoming truly inspired to go back to Chicago to create this story with the community. It’s really a grass roots documentary.

MC: Learning about the culture and also learning about myself and my own identity. I think once you are in the process day in and day out, I can’t help but to reflect on my own experiences and growth that I’ve made as a filmmaker as well as a human being.

DM: When is Freedom of Identity going to be released?

MC: I’m hoping by January. January is our goal.

DM: Do you have any closing remarks?

MC: Yes, the trailer for Freedom of Identity can be viewed on freedomofidentity.wordpress.com. I think I should reiterate that I want people to look at the work and not automatically see separation but more so look at it and see a connection

DM: What are you liking or what did you like most about creating this documentary?

Interview by: Keena Alexander

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JANELLE MONAE TIP TIP ON THE TIGHTROPE

F

ans call her eccentric, eclectic, energetic, and a leader, not a follower…who am I talking about?

Janelle Monáe…

Recently nominated for two Soul Train awards and featured on the original motion picture soundtrack of “For Colored Girls Only”, Janelle is tippin’ on the scene in a major way! Her most recent CD, The ArchAndriod debuted at #4 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Billboard charts back in June and as #17 in the top 200 Billboard albums. Her CD prior to The ArchAndroid, titled Metropolis: The Chase Suite peeked at #20 on the top 200 albums on the Billboard chart.

Dressed in similar clothing each time she’s photographed or performs, Janelle reminds people, “They ain’t seem to mind the last three times I posed in Vogue.” The magazine’s writers called her a “different kind of diva” and the fact she was featured in the highly acclaimed magazine three times speaks highly of her musical status…who cares what she’s wearing, it only matters that she’s good at what she does! Sean “Diddy” Combs

called her a visionary and said it was one of his smartest musicbusiness moves yet.

From televised performances on David Letterman and Dancing with the Stars to touring with Erykah Badu, Janelle has quickly made a name for herself. She’s worked with artists such as Big Boi, B.o.B., and Lupe Fiasco, to name a few. Her lyrics are just as creative and unique as her style and the artists she works with agree 100%.

She may be an artist that has to grow on you if you typically only like radio-tunes that tend to sound the same But open your mind, listen to her lyrics, enjoy the non-conformity of the beats and sounds, and get ready to be impressed with her individualism. It’s refreshing to listen to an artist that makes music for the people who really DIG music and isn’t trying to impress the masses just to make a dollar.

Check out her tour dates on her twitter: http://twitter.com/ janellemonae

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Photography: Lawrence Bryant | Writer: Seven L Maxwell

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emember the moment you saw the commercial where Tyrese was an ordinary guy riding the bus humming the Coke jingle? By the end of the 30 second skit, he put a soulful twist to a familiar sound— which had ladies across the country shifting in their seats—oh yeah, you remember! That’s how Bradd Young got his start in music; singing to himself on the bus when fellow friend encouraged him to sing louder for everyone to enjoy. Of course, this shy school-guy wasn’t up for the idea at first, but just like any other teenager, the warm reception from ladies helped to redirect his path.

Revered as one of the sexiest voices in St. Louis, Bradd Young is working his way toward being a music mogul. When asked about his motivation to succeed in an industry that claims to be falling short on sales and money he simply replied, “I think the money is where it used to be. I believe the music is not what it used to be. With real music, you can still make the same amount of money”. And money he has made!

Serving as a production powerhouse, this humble heart-throb isn’t just in it for himself. While working under his label at RockHouse Entertainment., Bradd—along with his production partner Orlando “Prettyboy” Watson— continues to manage, produce, and develop the next wave of extreme talent; all while remaining an avid supporter of other artists on the local music scene.

“I always go the opposite way. If I stay opposite, then I stay me.

I don’t want to blend in”

Determined to stay true to real music, Young insists on separating himself from the music trends of today.

“I always go the opposite way. If I stay opposite, then I stay me. I don’t want to blend in”. His smash single “Grown Man” is just a sample of the heat he’s bringing to the industry. When describing the creative force behind his hit he simply stated, “I wanted to do something that was reminiscent of old school, but still sound like today”. He continues, “I wanted it to sound like it was produced by Prince, sang by Michael Jackson, with a hook written by Babyface. I wanted to put sounds reminiscent of anything that was great back then into one song and say, ‘alright, R&B is back’”.

Dominating the R&B scene—not only in St. Louis, but in 26 other markets with Billboard Top 100 track,“Grown Man”—Young isn’t limited by the boundaries of one genre. As a platinumselling producer, Young is proud that he’s able to lend his signature sound to artists in any genre.

Testing his talents in studios across the country, Young has worked with some great names in music such as: Akon, Teddy Riley, Bone Thugs & Harmony, Swizz Beats, Kelly Rowland, Yolanda Adams, Jibbs, and the St. Lunatics. Young cranked it up a notch when he produced Yo Gotti’s “Women Lie, Men Lie”, featuring Lil Wayne—which has already proven to be a huge success.

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With both his current and climbing accomplishments, Bradd Young is determined to make an impact on the world. “I [was] in the 4th quarter in heavy rotation. I must be doing something right”. And that he is. After performing at Hot 104.1’s Super Jam and sharing the stage and rocked the same crowd who also rocked to Gucci Mane and Drake. He also opened for John Legend at Fair St. Louis; and wowed the half-time show at the Gateway Classic—each time, expanding his fan base exponentially. His classic vibe, contemporary style, and eclectic image fuse to produce an icon in the making. It’s that same vibe and style that is poured into songs like his latest single, “The Doctor”, that will leave a lasting impact on the game.

For those of you who’ve yet to recognize the road Bradd Young and RockHouse Entertainment have travelled, I implore you to submerge yourself in the sounds of St. Louis. Sharing his label with other rising icons such as American Idol finalist, Aloha Mischeaux (Mi’sho); and the sexy trio, June 5th; Young knows what the industry needs and is willing to give it to them by shying away from fads and remaining true to the fundamentals. It is that specific approach that allows Young to stand unwavering behind the motto of RockHouse Entertainment: “We follow history, never trends”—a formula that will help catapult him to super stardom. As these words are already true; remember: You read it here first!

“I wanted it to sound like it was produced by Prince, sang by Michael Jackson, with a hook written by Babyface.”

Photography: Lawrence Bryant

Words by: Seven L. Maxwell

ST LUNATICS REASSEMBLED & READY

I

t would be an injustice to have an issue to feature any top St. Louisians without paying homage to the team that broke into the music industry and opened the Gateway to the West for the entire world to walk through lyrically and visualize through videos.

Yes, it’s been a while since the St. Lunatics released an album, but in the interim they’ve been busy working on themselves as individuals, artists, and businessmen. Although they’ve been quiet, don’t assume they’ve been standing still. Ali, Nelly, Kyjuan, Murphy Lee, and City Spud been busy working on their individual ideas and preparing for this moment. For the first time in years, the St. Lunatics are back together and ready to overcome the obstacles that the industry has laid before them.

This time they’re facing a familiar, yet foreign challenge—they’re working to shake off those critics holding them to a standard by which the music business no longer operates; they’re adjusting to the business of music in a digitally-dominated industry; and they’re celebrating the homecoming of their brother, City Spud.

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T

en years ago Torhi “Murphy Lee” Harper was the 16 year-old school boy who captured the teen audience with his fun flows. Often unleashing his inner-innocence on and off the stage, young Murphy Lee had a face that suggested he was a sweet heart even after hearing his songs riddled with catchy hooks and mannish metaphors. Murphy Lee was young with money—spending it fast, but making it faster. Running on a full tank after touring and promoting the ‘Tic’s platinum-selling Free City album, Murphy Lee rocked the scene when his chart-topping “What the Hook Gone Be” off his album Murphy’s Law—which went gold and peaked at number 8 in Billboard’s Top 200. He was featured in some of the hottest tracks of the year including the remix of the Ying Yang Twins “Salt Shaker”, and Jermaine Dupri’s “Welcome to Atlanta”—which is still a home-town favorite today. He and Nelly even brought home a Grammy for spitting ’16 bars of fire’ on the Bad Boy II soundtrack, “Shake a Tailfeather” along with P. Diddy.

A substantial amount of time passed between Murphy Lee’s first album, and his second. The momentum from his first project began to fade as he anxiously awaited the green light for the release of his second. The fans were out there. They wanted more. The digital age had taken over, and the man once known for his catchy melodies was missing out on the rise of the ringtone era. But he didn’t allow the lack of support of the label to dampen his spirits.

He reevaluated himself, assessed his talent, and started making moves—which resulted in Murphy Lee asking for his release from Universal as a solo artist so he could pursue his indie grind—a reward that would far exceed the risk.

Without a second thought, he resumed recording—this time for a different purpose. He reclaimed his career and with the release of his single, “Shoes”, Murphy Lee felt the force of is flows as over 40 markets added his track to their rotation. Of course he didn’t finish there; he also released a DVD entitled, You See Me, which included a CD with original music. In the DVD, he tells his story, gives the fans more of what they want from him—his music.

Today Murphy Lee is all grown up. He’s a father; an entrepreneur with his own label (UCME); a clothing line, a vegan cooking show which helps to continue to fuel the mission people thought he left behind with the closing of his restaurant, Good for You Café. , He’s most recently released his own wine with his brother Kyjuan, which has been backed by some powerful names in liquor distribution.

Partnering up with his brother, Kyjuan, who works diligently to help bring all the UCME and Derrty ENT. projects into fruition; Murphy Lee has spent a lot of time learning business. In this time, he has also studied his craft, tamed his flow, learned the business, and is now on a mission to reclaim his place at the top of the charts. Murphy Lee describes the differences in this decade for St. Lunatics as, “Five kids who came into rap, who are now five grown, intelligent, and knowledgeable businessmen with a plan.” When asked to elaborate, he simply stated “[Our plan] is well thought out. But the biggest difference is City’s home”.

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I

n the last ten years, Robert “Kyjuan” Cleveland has been working hard to make it all work. As a young man, his focus was fashion as he fulfilled his musical aspirations. “I used to go out to Northwest Plaza, buy out the Lark or buy out Harold Pener. Now I don’t need all that.” He’s taken out some time to research various business ventures including the vegan show, Good for You on STL TV—with network aspirations while also looking to move into television and movies. He’s also partnered with Murphy Lee to develop artists under the UCME moniker in which the two brothers have equally shared responsibilities and rewards which includes the upcoming release of a UCME compilation album.

Kyjuan is also tapping into his own king-of-fashion reputation to build a clothing line, produce line of wrist-wear with very familiar, yet next-level characteristics; and promoting his own beverage, Freaky Moscato—which is distributed by Lohr Distributing. Studying the art of business and building his brand as big as his brain allows; Kyjuan remains constant and true to his city. When asked about the music business and local artists’ banter about the St. Lunatics refusal to help them get a deal he simply stated, Always remaining true to being his brother’s keeper; after a decade in the industry, his bond with his band of brothers is stronger than ever. He’s looking forward to the release of the ‘Tics’ next project and ready to make more moves with the crew with whom he’s grown from a boy to a man.

L

avell “City Spud” Webb has laced some of the hottest lines in the Lunatic’s freshman project, but before he could celebrate the success of the album, he was sentenced to ten years behind bars. “The first time I heard details of the record sales, we were 3 or 4 [times platinum]. I didn’t know what to expect. I knew it was doing good based on the spins on the radio and the videos.

As far as the sales, I just couldn’t keep up with the specifics of it until I had time to talk to the guys.”

He wasn’t able to celebrate the success of fame as the rest of the ‘Tics, so his experiences this time around are familiar, yet unique. Now that he’s home and gearing up for the release of the newest venture, City Free, he’s had time to perfect his craft.

On this album he’s come back more lyrically astute than ever as he’s re-introduced to the world.

Having shot his first video in April, Spud is still taking it all in. “Everything’s interesting and exciting to me,” Spud continued, “I’m looking forward to it all”. As he prepares to revel in the nightlife—you know—shows, parties, and after-parties, it’s not only about the lifestyle, he’s more excited about simply living life. Everything else is just part of the job—yet it’s something he’s clearly looking forward to, as he prepares to celebrate again, for the first time.

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I

n the past decade, Ali Jones, president of Derrty ENT., has seen some highs and lows. He was a focused college student who had a dream and formulated the perfect plan to elevate the St. Louis music scene. By the time Nelly hit the scene in 2000, Ali had already learned the inner-workings of the music business, so when everything came together, he and the rest of the St. Lunatics took the torch and lit a fire under the industry. Back then, he wanted it all: the money, the cars, the clothes, the jewelry, and the women. But it wasn’t until he suffered through a divorce that he began to put everything into perspective.

Since then, Ali has remained true to his love for music by launching the website MidwestMixtapes.com, which features projects from artists representing the region Ali calls home. He also released an LP entitled Heavy Starch in 2002; received heavy news coverage when an officer from the Hazelwood, MO police department tasered him 46 times while handcuffed in the back seat of his vehicle; an dropped two mix-tapes in this year entitled The Champ Iz Here and So St. Louis.

When asked about City Spud’s return to the studio, he replied, “I’m excited. Just to get a chance to see him do it is like a breath of fresh air”. Spud’s return is just the momentum the St. Lunatics needed. Ali

"We’ve been fortunate and we must embrace what we have... " is confident in the latest Lunatic LP and his standing after ten years in the industry. “The success we’ve had in the pop world has allowed us to have longevity,” states Ali who added, “I just want to be able to keep on moving with this project. We have songs like ‘Polo’—just genuine Lunatic records.

“We’ve been fortunate and we must embrace what we have because the average rapper is trying to keep their street [credibility] and have a crossover hit. We seem to always be able to get the cross-over hit—which brings us this crazy amount of money. So we just [have to] embrace it.

And at this age, it’s just something we’re happy to have. We get to make music and relax.”

Within this decade, Ali has mellowed out tremendously. Leaving his wild ways behind and focusing more on the future Ali explains his mental space. “Now I’m older, I’m more mature and more focused. I’m a one-woman man for the first time in my life. I’ve fathered another daughter. It’s just about living life”. While preferring to spend his time with his two daughters, Heavenly and Wisdom, he’s preparing to be remarried to the woman of his dreams. “For the past three years, I’ve just been enjoying life. I’m not going to hang in the streets, I’m just enjoying life.” Instead of endless nights, he’s much more settled at home as a father and fiancé, but duty calls, and he’s taking advantage of his time with his family as he prepares to return to the spotlight.

ALI

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A superstar since his first hit, Cornell “Nelly” Hayes, Jr. made exploding onto the scene look simple. When he introduced the world to Country Grammar—the album and the single—St. Louis celebrated. What seemed like an overnight celebrity was the result of a lot of blood, sweat, tears, and chances. After what seemed like the typical industry run-around, they came up with an idea that could have lead to the demise of a group—one of the members went solo. Instead of kicking his boys to the curb as his career took off, Nelly kicked open the door for them. And despite any rumors, the St. Lunatic’s have since remained a cohesive unit—withstanding the test of time, money, and fame.

As a young rapper, Nelly had no clue how serious this was about to get. With a nine-time platinum album debuting at number three in the Billboard 200, he had millions of reasons to celebrate. His sophomore LP, Nellyville, created a whirlwind of rumors of the young star purchasing the city and changing the name. The album generated much success, debuting at number one on Billboard’s Top 200 Music Albums; and after going six-times platinum, the support of the city continued.

With too many hits to name, Nelly’s singles “Ride Wit Me”, “E.I”, “Batter Up”, “Hot in Herre”, “Dilemma”, “Pimp Juice”, and “Air Force Ones” all made an impact to the city. While his first single from his album, 5.0, “Just a Dream” climbs the charts, and creating a buzz on iTunes, Nelly’s still showing people that he still has what it takes to succeed in this ever-changing industry. Using his musical success to build Nelly’s brand, he also ventured into the sports, fashion, beverage, modeling, and fitness-tape businesses— diversifying his portfolio, while increasing his overall net worth.

“

@NELLY_MO

We learned a lot in life: about the business, about each other, and—most importantly— about ourselves...

“

But success did not come without a price. Along the way, the St. Lunatics took over BET Uncut with the video that shed a new light on the superstar. The media tried to portray his as good boy gone bad. When the video was released, the infamous Spellman University boycott cancelled their agreement to partner with Jes Us 4 Jackie bone marrow drive which could have potentially help match a donor with a candidate praying for a miracle—which didn’t come in time enough to help his sister Jackie Donahue who began rejoicing in the spiritual world in 2005. It is through her memories that Nelly is able to put his all into his music and shake off those skeptic of his staying power.

A decade later, Nelly reflects on the where the path has lead the St. Lunatics as a whole. “We learned a lot in life: about the business, about each other, and—most importantly—about ourselves.” Determined to share in the fulfillment of a dream with City Spud, Nelly stated, “I don’t know what it feels like to have worked so hard for a dream, and to have your dream right in front of you and then snatched away. To watch your dream being carried on through other people, but to know your dream is right there—that’s hard to do”. He continued, “But to have him out now is beautiful. Now, he gets a chance to come with us because it’s like we’re starting over again as the underdog. I think we play well from the underdog position.”

With the world watching and awaiting both of these upcoming projects, Nelly continues to hold true to his roots as a St. Lunatic— never turning his back on his team, even when they were counted out.

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o let’s do a recap: Ten years in the industry, multiple platinum-selling albums, various solo albums and mixtapes, restaurants, clubs, ownership in an NBA team, clothing lines, energy drinks, and now wine— with all of those ventures, one could arguably state that each of the St. Lunatics are doing just fine.

The common theme they all seemed to share was this time it’s for love, for music, for brotherhood, and for City Spud. Both City Free and 5.0 are expected to drop on November 16 and each of the St. Lunatics is excited about the passion each of them put into these projects. This album has a lot riding on it. It is their time to shine in the spotlight and celebrate together in this monumental moment. For the first time in the decade in which they were signed, the basic elements of Voltron have reassembled themselves into a powerful unit promising to deliver in a way that far exceeds the expectations of the average pessimist. For the doubters that believe they fell off, understand: they just fell back, watched the changes in the industry, fine-tuned their flows, and awaited their brother’s return. At last; City’s Free!

S

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Photography: Jerren McKenny (JayKene) Styling: Morgan Hickman & Darren Nesbit Asst: Kamat Muhammad Clothing: Skif International Location: Jipsi Vintage Boho Living Words: Keena Alexander 82

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SKIF:

SWEATER KNITTED IN FREEDOM

More than it’s true meaning of “disgusting” in Italian, Skif, short for schifo, makes exceptionally constructed sweaters that classify one as “chic” or “en vogue” when donned. Skif’s unique, free-form, and whimsical sweaters have easily become a favorite among boutiques across the nation.

Nina Ganci, owner of Skif, knitwear designs embody the “Sweaters knitted in freedom concept.” Ganci employs a brood of knitters from the St. Louis, MO and Edison, NJ area to help design and knit. Her team is more like a family, and she allows her knitters to have creative freedom.

Skif, located at 2008 Marconi Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, exudes the aesthetic of its designs.

The walls are splashed with interesting art and the sales floor is open and free with simple racks to display the clothing. Customers are encouraged to visit the studio to see what’s in the works, buy ready-made designs, or to place orders. Although sweaters are Skif’s specialty, they also make wonderfully constructed accessories like hats, scarves and leg/arm/hand warmers.

The inspiration for each season’s designs is usually sponged from other cultures. For the Spring and Fall 2011 collections, Ganci’s design ideas are taken from the A Tribe of Artists: Costumes and Culture at Burning Man Exhibit in Arizona as well as the Indonesian culture.

Skif definitely represents their vision, “A world free of itself.”

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CYNTHIA TORRES | CHRISTINA ELIZABETH

Every issue we at DELUX Magazine will team-up with I AM!! Boutique to locate the most couture, beautiful, sexy, handsome, fresh faces in St. Louis. Then transform them into Mr/Ms IAM!!!DELUX. What makes this so exciting is we are taking St. louis beautiful faces and giving them the opportunity to

become recognized nationaly. All selections recieve an all expense paid trip to Miami, a Photoshoot courtesy of DELUX Magazine, and a personal interview with a FORD Model Rep in LA, and much more.

-Enjoy

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THE LASH LOFT

| www.thelashloft.net | 314.588.1313 | Photography: Keith Griffin II | Words: De’Marja Patrick

The Lash Loft Day Spa is the first of its kind in the St. Louis Area to provide an exclusive eyelash salon and day spa experience. Located in the St. Louis loft district at 1624 Delmar, you will find the warm and inviting salon that has bloomed from one room into an entire salon.

“I used to just rent a room in salons,” said owner Natalie Harrison.

Prior to The Lash Loft Day Spa opening in April 2010, it was only called The Lash Loft, because the day spa experience is a new concept to the salon. Natalie began The Lash Loft in 2004 with a staff of one, herself, and then as business grew it was two other people that became a part of The Lash Loft staff. Now at The Lash loft Day Spa, there is a full staff that includes nine people, from cosmetologist, human resources to estheticians.

Owner Natalie Harrison worked in corporate America for 11 years, before she started The Lash Loft. The Lash Loft idea grew from her boredom in corporate America and micro-management, so she decided to go to cosmetology school to become an esthetician. For a school project she had to create a dream day spa and from there, “The Lash Loft Day Spa,” was birthed. And as the popular saying goes, the rest is history.

The Lash Loft Day Spa offers a wide array of services for its clients that include and promote treatments that are designed around the idea of refreshing and rejuvenating the customer. One of the specialized eye enhancing services that the Lash Loft offers is Xtreme Lashes, which is semi-

permanent individual eyelash extensions. Natalie has been certified through Xtreme Lashes, and as her staff go through the same classes of certification, she continues to work to, “mentor and mold them.” The Lash Loft Day Spa also offers make-up applications, lash strips and Swarovski Crystal designs.

The Lash Loft is also always adding new services to the salon, such as airbrush makeup, as seen on many reality TV shows, now the people of St. Louis can experience the services as people of other major big cities do.

Natalie said, “St. Louis has this big city mentality with a southern feel…and there was no true day spa.”

Natalie mentioned that the only spa around that offers similar services is in the Four Seasons, but The Lash Loft Day Spa brings a spa to a store front.

“I’m trying to give Four Seasons a run for their money,” says Natalie.

As business continues to grow at the St. Louis location, Natalie has plans of expansion to become an Xtreme Lash Trainer and to also franchise The Lash Loft Day Spa. The hard work Natalie is putting into the business is also relevant in the community.

The Lash Loft Day Spa hosts spa parties, features a different business a month and works with organizations, all in efforts to give back to the community.

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Photography: Keith Griffin II | Words: Seven L. Maxwell

“Good ideas come from God, so I know my company was a gift from God. When my company was based on an idea, God blessed me to pray it into fruition,” states Sean Walker, founder of Candy Shop Custum Bikes. Walker is a carpenter by trade, so creating things with his hands comes natural. While looking into a future in construction, Walker sought out a new purpose as the trade he built his career around became less fun. “I was on YouTube looking at [a bike] Snoop was sitting on, and it was fresh. I thought ‘I can build it better, and I can sell it better’”. At that moment, the proverbial light bulb illuminated and Candy Shop Custum Bikes was born.

Since February 2007, Candy Shop Custum Bikes has grown from a local business, to an international entity, covering clients from Los Angeles, Wisconsin, Chicago, St. Louis, Miami, New York, and even Rio— yes, Brazil. “When I started, I was by myself.

Then I brought my brother, Three, in. Three was going to do the Candy Shop apparel line, but he was taken from us May 7, 2009. Now 98

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it’s just me, handling it all”.

Just because Walker is busy running the business doesn’t mean he’s not getting his hands dirty. “When it comes to candy-painting bicycles, I’m the best.” Walker continued, “There isn’t a custom bicycle company that does what we do. We have an exclusive house of colors. Urethane painted bicycles that are customized. We do the bicycle production, the fabrication, and the painting of the bikes”. With an endless array of options, if you can dream it, Candy Shop can build it.

Candy Shop isn’t just about bikes; they also have an apparel line that has been given a second look by the masses. “We have Candy Shop Bikes Apparel, boy shorts included in the Icy Hot Collection, Dickeys and shop shirts, which are big in Texas, Rio, and New York”.

With a growing online presence and increasing clientele, you certainly don’t want to be the last to order yours. Scroll on over to CandyShopBikes.net or check them out at: Candy Shop Custum Bikes on Facebook. .

NAPPS! Photography: Lawrence Bryant Writtern by: De’Marja Patrick

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Facebook: Napps Natural Hair

ooking for a black owned business that has stayed true to its integrity, location and services for 18 years, then you are looking for Napps.

As soon as you walk up to the salon, you see and feel the culture of Napps as you see stylist working on their clients from the window. Napps is a hair salon located in University City right in the Loop at 6267 Delmar. Napps specializes in servicing customers with natural hair styles, and the entire up-keep of the African-American texture of hair without using chemicals.

Everyone that works in the salon has been trained by the owner, Mekhat and this is how it has been for 18 years, working to protect and preserve natural hair.

Back in 1992 when the salon opened, Napps was the only salon around that was specializing in natural hair and dreads, long before dreads were trendy and a part of the current fashionable natural hair styles.

“I decided to stop wearing my hair relaxed years ago,” said Mekhat. Mekhat says she has always been a part of the conscience culture way before 2010, and along with the culture of the hair salon, the location has also been perfect. In Mekhat’s opinion, “The Loop is the most cultured area.”

With the close proximity of Washington University, Napps is always receiving new clients and because of this the location continues to a part of the success at Napps.

Mekhat says the entire experience of Napps, is to provide a professional atmosphere that is warm. Mekhat is also a

Twitter: @NappsHairSalon

commission salon, so there is always a team atmosphere.

We only promote Napps, instead of individuals,” said Mekhat.

Because of the team atmosphere and special services provided

by Napps has been a “recession proof business.”

Mekhat says this is why the salon has lasted this long, because the entire staff has been trained with the same “Napps techniques.”

With the success at the salon over the last 18 years, Mekhat does not work regularly in the salon and has moved on, well actually right next door from the salon, to open her boutique Sexy Buddha.

“I always wanted to do hair and make my own clothes,” said Mekhat. Mekhat still works as a hair stylist, but only for “special clients,” because she is spending more time on her boutique. At the Sexy Buddha, Mekhat says you will find “sexy sophisticated and up-scaled pieces.” But this is not the last stop for the businesswoman.

Along with the salon, boutique and Napps hair care line, Mehkat is looking for more.

“I am never satisfied,” said Mehkat.

Mehkat looks to expand Napps salon throughout the country as well as the hair care line, while training future stylist in a school, just for natural hair training.

“I want to be the black Paul Mitchell,” said Mekhat.

“I always want to do better…we’re doing great but can I do better,” said Mekhat.

DELUX MAGAZINE WINTER 2010/11 99 NAPPS! • 6267 Delmar Blvd • 314.727.0312 • www.myspace.com/nappsworldwide

ight in the heart of Central West End is Boutique 83.

Located at 4658 Maryland Ave. St. Louis, MO, you will find the stylish and sleek designed boutique, with many specialty pieces. St. Louis native and co-owner, Chad, describes the clothing as, “boutique pieces.” He mentioned that the boutique limits their selection to three or four selections of each piece.

Chad and his partner Perchelle, own the up-scaled boutique, which envisions tailoring to the diverse environment in which they are surrounded by. Since Chad is from St. Louis he knows the area well, and looks to, “create something fresh and new,” The CWE encompasses a diverse clientele and Boutique 83, keeps the customers in mind with their selection of merchandise for the boutique. Boutique 83 entails high end designers that true “fashionistas” will know, such as Vivian Westwood, Tristin & Trista, Nicole Miller and many more.

“Our main goal is to bring in more designers,” said Chad.

Although there are some expensive but one of a kind items, the boutique strives to keep a diverse selection of clothes because of its location. Boutique 83 wants to offer a custom feeling on every level. You will see everyone from students to doctors in Central West End and because of this there are items from $50 to $800.

Although the boutique is new to the central west area, it is not new to St. Louis. Boutique 83 was originally located in downtown St. Louis, then relocated to The Central West End in June 2010. Within the next month the owners hope to have a bar on the lower level, in hopes of attracting a, “higher end clientele,” says Chad.

Boutique 83 has been working hard to create a brand within the St. Louis fashion scene and has participated in St. Louis Fashion Week, since 2007.

100 DELUX-MAG.COM WINTER 2010/11 Photography: Keith Griffin II | Words: De’Marja Patrick

Boutique 83 is looking to stop people from having to go to New York or Chicago to shop, because what you want and need is here in St. Louis at Boutique 83.

Photography: Lawrence Bryant | Words: Seven L Maxwell

e R N U R T E L COU MOD B

lending culture and couture together is quite a challenge that fashion freshmen, Dorrell Sherrill, 20 and Gregg Crawford, 18 are willing to take as their brand, Modern Coulture, gains the attention of the youth of the city. Having only been in business since March, 2010; these two junior achievers have already made an impact on the city’s urban fashion scene.

Launching with a crew-neck sweater from their signature I Love Being Fly line, what started off as an idea has landed Modern Coulture in the hearts of the young, fly, and fresh of St. Louis. “I Love Being Fly was basically our first statement as a clothing line, which focused on the whole ‘fly era’ that we were trying to bring,” states Crawford.

Since their release, they have been featured as one of the Top Five Young Clothing Lines by the experts on all things fashionable and fly: the Made Monarchs

(www.mademonarchs.com). With such a young line, it would seem difficult to move merchandise; however, the men of Modern Coulture have managed to use social networking and guerilla marketing strategies to get the word out. “Since March, we’ve sold out of everything we’ve ever put out,” boasts Crawford, proud to be a part of this budding brand.

With their growing success, don’t expect these young ambassadors of cool to over-saturate the market just yet. For the time being, they’re pacing themselves and preparing to pave their own lane as they continue to capitalize off their own success.

To see more of their designs check them out on Facebook under Modern Coulture or email them at: ModernCoulture@gmail.com

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Behind the infectious smile and affectionate embrace, the artist known as Brooklyn Kingsboro has a warm way of welcoming you into his world. Born, Michael Winfield; Kingsboro grew up in the Kingsboro projects in Brooklyn, New York where the streets molded him into the man and the artist he is today. What started off as a fun night between two young friends tagging the trains of New York City, yielded one of the most talented graffiti artists in St. Louis today.

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hat started off as a fun night between two young friends tagging the trains of New York City, yielded one of the most talented graffiti artists in St. Louis today. Simply known as Heav in his hometown, Kingsboro made his mark all over the trains, tunnels, and walls of the city. What seemed like a thrill then was nothing more than practice for the young artist who made the city that never sleeps his canvas. After making his mark all over the concrete jungle, Kingsboro set his heart on making a true change. After packing everything he had, he left the city he called home in search of something different—a decision he doesn’t regret making.

“I like it here. I had never been here before. I didn’t know anyone when I got here, so I had to establish myself as somebody.” Kingsboro continued, “St. Louis is a smaller space. You get to meet more people and more people know you. Although a lot of people knew me in New York City, but it’s huge”. And it is this smaller city that embraced him as he re-established his position in the world, adopting the name Brooklyn Kingsboro as his own way of remaining connected to his roots.

Kingsboro grew up with hip hop, and as a lover of the culture, he has tried his hand at various aspects of his craft.

“If you’re true to hip hop itself, you’ve

dabbled in everything. Either you tried to break dance, and it didn’t work for you. You tried emceeing, and it wasn’t your thing. Grafitti—that’s my thing, so I took it and ran with it.”

It wasn’t until about five or six years ago he started taking art a little more seriously. Kingsboro insists his art isn’t about story-telling, it’s more about creativity and transferring his thoughts onto his canvas.

mind are in colors and shapes and letters”. “Now I use a ton of tools from spray paint to a Sharpie—as long as it’s permanent”. His favorite was Krink markers which leaving a lasting impression that continues to bleed through any paint used to cover it. “I felt like, if I drew my name with Krink, I could never be taken down”.

As Kingsboro’s artistic appetite expands, as does his network. Besides being the creative force behind DELUX “My art doesn’t tell a Magazine, he’s also an active member the Force—a national network that story, it’s more like a of has grown far beyond the borders of feeling. If I wake up St. Louis. His work has been featured Art Dimensions along great artists and feel like I want in such as: Chris Burch, Justin Tolentino, to draw some letters Peat Walleager, Davide Weaver, and Bayoc. He was also a part of on something, that’s C’Babi the first and second edition of Fresh what I’m going to do. Paint with popular urban artists such Kevin McCoy, Rhashad Whittier of I don’t have any ideas as SYGU, DJ Needles, and Black Spade on how it’s going to who all came together to provide artistic atmosphere, fusing all of happen. I just start an the fundamental elements of hip hop messing with it, and including a DJ, break dancers, and from the area. eventually it develops artists Armed with an artillery of art supplies, into something”.

Kingsboro takes time to make his mark on the city. It’s no secret that paint flows through his veins, and he Kinsboro continues, “I don’t try to continues covering the world—one convey a message of guilt or frustration. masterpiece at a time. Follow him on I could say that the message is more Twitter like confusion because there are all @brklynstl these thoughts in my mind that have to be released. The thoughts in my

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Nathan Jalani Taylor @ nathanjataylor

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athan Jalani Taylor is a visual artist, painter, graphic designer and art director. Born and raised in Rockford, Illinois, Nathan showed a talent for the arts at an early age. At age 15 he was the youngest published cartoonist for the Rockford Register Star with his strip Jalani. His first formal education in painting began at Rockford Auburn High School in the CAPA (Creative And Performing Arts) program. A decade later several of his large paintings still hang in the school and the pieces have become part of the school’s tradition. He later attended and graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts & Graphic Design from Iowa State University. While at Iowa State he earned an award for Design Excellence for co-founding The Black Renaissance Movement and Uhuru Magazine. The groups focused on African-American students and the Arts, One of the only organizations and publications of its kind in the state of Iowa. He first moved to New York City to work as a designer for Essence Magazine. He continues to work as designer and art director for major magazines and record labels.

His art currently graces the cover of Play with the Changes, the latest album by the UK super group 4hero.

He was selected to tour as a live painter with Grammy Nominated R&B/Gospel artist Kelly Price. He currently performs live paintings with prominent musicians and spoken word artists such as Janelle Monae, Jon B., Messiah, Glenn Lewis, and Autumn Rowe. Freestyling live art at concerts, open mic events/parties throughout the country. Nathan was one of eleven artist selected to be

featured in Verizon Wireless “How Sweet The Sound” Gospel/Art Concert Series. His paintings were regularly featured in Elle Magazine and he illustrated Hay House’s Iyanla Vanzant Inspirational Card Series. Nathan was selected to show at Red Stripe’s Tribeca Film Festival After Party and Harlem’s Society Cafe 2nd Anniversary Event.

His artwork was used on the cover of Dr. Richard Iton’s book In Search of the Black Fantastic (Oxford University Press). He was commissioned to create graphics for the NBA’s All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas. He has worked as a designer and art director for Essence, Elle, ElleGirl, Elle.com, Maxim’s Stuff Magazine, Vibe & Vixen Magazine.

Recently he donated the painting “Healing Spirit” to the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation. He was invited to show in Seed Gallery’s Inaugural Group Art Exhibition (Newark, NJ, Winter 2007). His work was featured at “A Night in Brooklyn” with photographer Rondie Pottinger at Tamboril Latin Restaurant Bar & Lounge (summer 2008). Nathan painted live once a month in 2009 at J. Harris’ Love Jones NYC at Duane Park Restaurant and Lounge in Tribeca. In addition to his paintings Nathan is a freelance graphic designer, recently working as an art director for Industry NYC Magazine, creating t-shirt designs for Madison Parker Clothing Company, His original paintings and prints are available online at www.nathanjalanitaylor.com. He currently lives and works in the NYC metro area with his wife Skye Dawn Taylor.

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Miguel

Paredes

the urban realist

M

iguel Paredes was born in New York in 1966 and is of a Latin American descent. He is an artist and self-proclaimed “urban realist” who combines the exhilarating sense of New York graffiti art with the skill and perceptiveness of a true exceptional artist.

Growing up 72nd Street in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Paredes exuded early signs of artistic ability and accepted an invitation to New York City’s prestigious Fiorello La Guardia High School of Music and Art – immortalized in the musical and movie Fame – in the early 1980s. His studies at Fiorello coincided with the explosion of street culture in the city. Paredes drew inspiration from notorious pop artists like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring and plunged headlong into the world of graffiti and pop art taking the name “Mist” as his moniker.

Another influential figure in Paredes’ artistic career is his mentor Ronnie Cutrone. Cutrone was Andy Warhol’s immediate assistant at the Factory during the notorious pop artist’s most productive and prestigious years. To Paredes, his mentor’s paintings are the essence of pop: colorful, lively and highly accessible. Cutrone’s constant use of bright and fluorescent colors not only influenced Warhol’s return to such hues, but shaped Paredes’ color palette choices as well. Paredes’ piece “Ronnie is that you?” pays homage to Cutrone and features one of Paredes’ sons painted on a vintage Mickey Mouse bed cover. The child represents the artist looking for Ronnie.

In 1986, Paredes left New York to come to still burgeoning Miami Beach, FL. Soon after Paredes began apprenticing for Paul Kus, a former FBI art forgery expert who made his mark on the art world by meticulously replicating, and then giving his own twist, to master works. Working on these legal replicas gave Paredes a newfound respect for fine art and afforded him a fertile ground to practice painting techniques as the most accomplished artists before him had done.

At the age of 27, Paredes took a studio at the Art Center of South Florida, where at a young age became one of their most prosperous artists focusing mainly on mixed media and conceptual art. At one of his first showings he sold all of his pieces and broke into the Miami Beach art scene. He ultimately took his own private studio space on Lincoln Road and painted for hours on end. Local venues often offered their space to showcase Paredes’ work and he later did shows with artists like Ronnie Cutrone, Skot Olsen, Tes One, And Sas and Colin Christian.

In 1998, Paredes noticed a trend of nightclubs distributing flashy flyers and drawing from his extensive knowledge of Japanese animation and comic book characters, he decided to overcome his fear of computers and purchased a Macintosh.

The very first flyer he produced was such a hit among management and patrons of the now defunct nightclub, Groove Jet, that the club immediately gave all future work to him.

WRITTEN BY: SEVEN L MAXWELL

Even though Paredes is at the helm of his companies, he always makes time for his art. His work continually draws the viewer into a never ending interaction with the canvas and once engaged, the viewer never fails to discover new details not seen before. He paints vivid, brilliant images that create an atmosphere of question and mystery, immersing his audience in an unparalleled visual experience as well as inner journey. Every stroke, every pose, every shadow Paredes’ newest venture, Paredes Publishing, was founded are thoughtfully constructed clues to the complex dialogue in 2006 and is a worldwide fine art wholesale and retail the artist is having with himself and with what he believes publisher. Paredes Publishing offers the highest quality will be his legacy. prints on the market and ranges from traditional to transitional genres. It prints an eclectic portfolio of distinct The 44 year old lives with his wife, Joyce, and their 2 and sophisticated artwork in both standard and custom children in Miami. For more information on Miguel Paredes sizes on canvas and paper, all created by emerging and and his upcoming exhibitions, visit www.miguelparedes. established artists. com Other clubs caught on and from this grew his multi-million dollar nationwide graphic design and printing company, PK Graphics. The company now services printing needs for 75,000 clubs nationwide and numerous corporate accounts.

PK Graphics is the largest postcard printer in the United States and is an industry leader for printing affordable, fast and high impact material.

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DELUXEATS

With almost a year under their belt, the owners of Lola are still going strong. Co-owner Chris Hansen is proud of their recent expansion taking up an entire block of 14th street and he’s excited about what’s yet to come for Lola (there’s talk of a rooftop expansion in the future). “The expansion was a perfect opportunity. It’s great to connect a whole block in the city,” says Hansen.

When it comes to the décor and layout, Hansen had a vision for the room. It’s warm and inviting. There’s a level of sophistication, yet it’s casual at the same time. The feel reflects the diverse audience with its urban aesthetics.

Hansen adds, “It’s contemporary with an artistic aspect.” Mike Caldwell and Zero One Creative also played a part of the design flavor, using a lot of their branded materials as parts of the décor DELUX MAGAZINE

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Price: $$ Cuisine: American - French Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner Alcohol: Full Bar, Absinthe Bar Reservations: Suggested Parking: Streets, Meters Payment Types: All Major Credit Cards, Attire: Socially Hip Sounds: Live Bands, Funk, Jazz, Soul Amenities: Patio Dining, Take-Out, Non

Smoking, Handicap Asseciable, Vegetarian Friendly

Lola’s Duet A mini bacon & blue cheese burger and a mini mushroom, onion, swiss burger served on fresh baked slider buns.

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Lola’s Lamb Loli’s French cut New Zeland lamb chops encrusted in dijon, fresh rosemary and coarse panko. Served wirh sweet carrot puree & mint pea mash potatoes

The loft feel helps make the connections with the names of the drinks posted on the wall behind the bar. The newly constructed Absinthe bar in the expansion portion of Lola ties into the French touch of the menu and the arts culture of the restaurant. Bar Manager, Matt McMullan had a lot to do with the start of the bar and he’s making creations that are popular with the crowd.

Lola provides entertainment several times per week. The genres vary and it’s always pleasing to the ears of listeners. Hansen, a musician as well, has been working with many of the artists who perform for years. “The music is just one part of this component,” he says. “It’s just as important as the food, the drinks, and hitting the right demographic.”

Choosing which acts perform is a delicate process. The owners want to stay true to a

certain art form without alienating people.

It’s not always main stream, but it’s definitely not off-putting. They’re keeping it soulful and funky at Lola!

Check out Lola Monday at 4pm until close and Tuesday through Friday 11am until late night (closing times may vary). And be sure to partake in Soulful Brunches on Sunday from 9:30am-2pm with live music from CoCo Soul. The atmosphere is full of energy and a lot of fun with dancing and cocktailing.

Lola also offers a Saturday morning brunch and a late night brunch on the last Friday of every month. With an assortment of choices on the menu, music on the stage, day or night, Lola will soon become a staple of downtown

THE EDITOR’S PICK The Couples Station

Courvoiser VS Cognac and Rothman and Winter Pear Liqueur, with a splash of sour.

St. Louis eateries.

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A PASSION FOR

FOOD Hidden restaurant combines four cuisines, two cultures and one restauratuer’s family love for the business Photos: Lawrence Bryant | Words:De’Marja Patrick

Mai Lee • 8396 Musick Memorial Dr • 314.645.2835 • www.maileerestaurant.com

The experience at Mai Lee restaurant is better than your favorite old sitcom Cheers, not only does the entire staff remember faces and names, but you will see them treating their customers like family. The family atmosphere is perhaps so apparent because almost the entire staff is related and has played a major part in the success of the restaurant for 25 years.

The Vietnamese and Chinese restaurant has been a part of the St. Louis area since 1985 and it began as a “little Vietnamese shop,” well at least that’s how Linda Tran described the previous location in comparison to the new restaurant.

“Pursuing the American dream led me to opening Mai Lee Restaurant in 1985 with a full Chinese menu.

To honor my heritage, I slowly added Vietnamese dishes to the menu of the then tiny 6 table restaurant,” said Linda’s mother, Lee Tran. Mai Lee restaurant moved in February 2010 from University City to Brentwood, but the customers have followed the family and restaurant to the new location. The crowd in Brentwood is different from U-city, but the new Mai Lee restaurant has gained new regulars.

Because Mai Lee restaurant had been in U-city for 25 years, there was some apprehension about moving to a new city with a completely different demographic.

Also the new location of the restaurant is ducked away behind Best Buy. Linda said the only thing her family could do was pray. “We just prayed and hoped our customers would follow,” said Linda.

Along with the new location, came other new components to the restaurant. The Tran family wanted to do things different this time. “The right way,” as Linda explained. With the new restaurant the entire family has been more hands on, because business has increased and the restaurant has doubled in size. A customer will see Linda’s brother, Qui behind the bar or her sister Sarah helping and greeting customers.

Mai Lee still has the same traditional southern Vietnamese cooking, but there are more options. The menu has gone from a few items to over 300 selections.

“My mom kept experimenting and adding additional items…so you never get tired of the menu,” said Linda. Along with the menu updates, there is now a full bar, an outstanding wine list and two

separate areas to dine in. When regulars visit the restaurant most find comfort in the dining room, because it is more family centered, and new comers usually sit in the bar area. The staff of Mai Lee restaurant is very happy to have two separate areas to dine in.

Because of the expansion of the restaurant and additional dining area, the designing and decorating of the restaurant has been stepped up. “My sister, Sara decorated and designed the entire new restaurant,” said Linda.

Sara said that she pulled colors from embroidered wall art that comes from the previous location of Mai Lee. The art in the restaurant comes directly from Vietnam, which gives the restaurant a traditional but also contemporary feel.

“It has been over 20 years and although the restaurant has moved from its original locations, it is still a family affair. It is a privilege for me, my husband, Sau, and my children, Qui, Sara and Linda to welcome you to Mai Lee Restaurant,” said Lee. As the food continues to match the loving experience you feel at Mai Lee restaurant, the restaurant should be around another 25 years.

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Fusion: The Art of Sushi Ginger Bistro • 6665 Delmar Ave University City • 314.222.2588 • www.gingerintheloop.com

“Sushi is not only exquisite—it is also one of the healthiest, most nutritional foods available.”

These are the words that great the customers of Ginger Bistro as they open the menu. Ginger Bistro brings a new look to sushi in The Loop, of St. Louis. After being open for only a month, Ginger Bistro is already receiving regular customers from students from Washington University; people shopping and local professionals are already making their way into Ginger Bistro.

Owners Jennifer Chiang and John Huang, worked hard to turn the space that was once a Blockbuster, into an elegant and welcoming restaurant that specializes in sushi. After a year of development, the restaurant opened October 4, 2010. The owners wanted to have fine dining, but with reasonable prices, so they put much time and effort into every detail of the restaurant from the decorating to the menu.

The low lights, music and warm colors in the restaurant create an impressionable environment that matches the food. Owners worked together on the plan of the restaurant to get a perfect combination of tradition and fusion. “Two people are better than one,” said Jennifer, and this has been a factor of early success at the restaurant, the collaboration of ideas.

“Fresh is key,” said Jennifer, because the restaurant selects the highest grade of fish to serve their customers. “We select a sushi grade for our tuna,” said Jennifer. Since the restaurant selects a sushi grade it allows the customers to eat the fish raw safely. The owners want to create dishes and specialties that can not be found at other restaurants.

“Every sauce is homemade,” said Jennifer, like the popular sweet and sour sauce. “I don’t want traditional sweet and sour sauce,” said Jennifer. As the menu goes on to explain Ginger Bistro it says that they, take pride in serving you Sushi rolls, only top-quality ingredients will be used.

Ginger Bistro prides itself on the main priorities of the restaurant which are food, service and cleanliness.

“Traditionally some Asian restaurants are not so clean…but I want everything perfect,” said Jennifer.

This is the first Ginger Bistro in St. Louis, and the owners want to build a brand before they expand the restaurant. John and Jennifer even created a sushi roll called the, Loop Trolley.

“We wanted to be apart of the community,” said John.

Photography: Lawrence Bryant | Words: De’Marja Patrick

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THE ETHICS PROJECT

Known for years as one of St. Louis’ leading bankruptcy attorneys, Dr. Christi M. Griffin now plies her considerable legal knowledge and standing in the community to bring about change in the legal system. The Founder and President of the nonprofit organization, The Ethics Project, she is responsible for providing the most comprehensive on-line listing of Innocence Projects and links to all 50 states’ Codes of Legal Ethics in the country. She has orchestrated Youth Gang Summits and Youth Empowerment Forums for several city, state and federal agencies that reached over 2000 students in some of St. Louis’ most challenged high schools, conducted Consortiums and Leadership Workshop for hundreds CEOs, Executive Directors and staff for non-profit organizations and businesses around the country and has partnered with Ilyasah Shabazz, the daughter of Malcolm X and Victor Woods, an acclaimed author, speaker and CNN contributor to bring inspiration, hope and direction to youth.

Delux: You built one of the largest consumer and small business bankruptcy practices in the state. After such a successful legal career, what made you start The Ethics Project?

Dr. Griffin: Many good things are often the result of pain and conflict. Through a very personal and arduous five year battle with the Missouri Bar and Missouri Supreme Court, the depth of corruption, racism and lack of ethics that exists within our legal system became painfully clear. The Ethics Project was created to educate the public about rules that pertain to attorneys, prosecutors, judges and police so we can reduce the appalling number of African American’s behind bars. By teaching the public about what legal professionals should and shouldn’t do and assisting in filing complaints, we intend to eliminate wrongful and selective prosecutions.

Delux: That sounds like an overwhelming task.

Dr. Griffin: I found out very quickly how much I had bitten off,not to mention being pulled in many different directions to address the impact of incarcerations on our youth and families. Fortunately, we have now partnered with the State Convention of the NAACP to broaden these efforts. Details of a state wide plan to address disparities in arrests, prosecutions and incarcerations are being worked out.

Delux: The Ethics Project web-site (www.ProjectEthics.org) mentions a number of programs. What else does The Ethics Project do?

Dr. Griffin: The best way to reduce the incarceration rate of 76% African AmericWWan’s (despite being just 11% of the US population) is to steer our youth away from the system. Barbers and Books is a program that puts donated books into neighborhood barber shops where our youth can come in and read in the presence of positive adults. Also, by partnering with Mr. Woods and Ms. Shabazz, we will continue to enlighten our youth about the many possibilities for their lives and help them to see their vast talents and create a vision for their future.

DELUXCOMMUNITY

Diplomat Record President/ 730 DIps CEO - Ezekiel Jiles - Freekey Zekey

Photo: Sarah McCoglan | Words: De’Marja Patrick

F

ounding member of The Diplomats & Owner/CEO of 730 Dips Records, Ezekiel Jiles, or better known in the hip hop industry as Freekey Zekey, has become a voice for a movement. Jiles is now the official hip hop celebrity spokesperson for Preserve Our Legacy (POL).

POL is an organization that is focused on educating but not exclusive to minorities, about the benefits of stem cells and treatment options, such as with bone marrow. Jiles hosted a bone marrow drive in October 2010 for “LJ” Jones a 10 year old with Hypereosinophilic Syndrome a disease that typically is only found in adults, since the drive Jiles has fallen more in love with the cause and movement of awareness. “He’s real, it’s not a publicity stunt,” said Jiles publicist, Lexi Chow, when discussing Jiles dedication to Preserve Our Legacy.

A part of Jiles’ role in Preserve Our Legacy, is to educate the minority community about the process, and how it directly can affect your life. “You don’t have to wait until it hits home,” said Jiles. “This is very serious to our community, it can make or break our future,” said Jiles.

During the interview Jiles stressed the point that registering at a bone marrow drive, is private and is only a cotton swap in your mouth. Jiles also wanted minorities to know that

BONE MARROW registering, does not bring out old skeletons from your closet, the information is only used to match patients with potential donors. Jiles feels like since he is a spokesman; this will reach the people in the hood. Many people, “fear the unknown,” said Jiles. Only eight percent of African-Americans are registered for bone marrow across the country, and if cases of African-Americans with bone marrow curing diseases continue to increase there is going to be a greater negative correlation between patients and matching donors. With partnership with Preserve Our Legacy, Jiles wants to bring forth curiosity from the minority community. “I want to be a voice of public awareness and reason,” said Jiles. If someone that is registered becomes a match for a patient the process takes approximately 35 minutes. Many people are not aware that there is no bone removal, and the process is nothing strenuous. There is a needle inserted in the bone to remove fluid, the pain is comparable to a tattoo or a Charlie horse, and within a few hours you are back in the streets.

“I need people to register this will save a life…I’m trying to get people to stop dying that don’t have to,” said Jiles. LJ is still looking for a donor.

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Richard J Mark and Keith GrifďŹ n II

Kenny Roberts, HOT 104.1

Murphy Lee, UCME/Derrty Ent

Mani Salvi, RockHouse Ent

THE GATEWAY CLASSIC FOUNDATION : FEED THE HUNGRY 2010

The St. Louis Ram Family

Dan Isom and Richard Gray

Mai Lee, Taj McDade, Veronica Hailey

Keesha Irving & Charter Communications

SPEAKERBOXX SAINT LOUIS

@TRIFECTA

MixTape MAYHEM words: @StlHomeJamz

words: Bell Davis

The Red Bull Big Tune Beat Battle is a once in a lifetime opportunity to help catapult one talented producer into stardom. In ‘08 and ‘09 St. Louis’ own super producer Trifeckta submitted several tracks to the battle, but both years he was turned down. He tried once again in 2010 and was gladly accepted. Looking back he realizes that he wasn’t accepted in previous years because of his beat selection and formatting. He is appreciative that he kept going and learned from his mistakes. His unique sound is inspired by many different genres of music and he always finds innovative ways to incorporate those different sounds to make his own melodic production.

@ROCKYKNUCKLES Fasten your seat belt; push the play button, and Choose Your Own Adventure as Rockwell Knuckles takes you on a ride through the cosmos with this project. The writings seem parallel to hieroglyphics which will gravitate to your soul with Saint Louis “The Force producers” Trifeckta, Stoney Rock aka Black Spade, Tech Supreme, and a few others catapulting you well beyond your average sanctum of@Hip-Hop. Every track will RockyK nuckle s take you to a different planet in Knuckles universe; songs like Government Name, Holograms, Bad Guy, 2 Go 2 Far, displays the wide parameter of rhyme patterns and storytelling that’ll have hitting the repeat button. If you have never heard or listened to any of Knuckles music or have never seen his show live on stage [where he will try a new song at anytime] you are doing yourself a great disservice as a mortal creature… You silly human! #The Force 124

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In the weeks leading up to the Red Bull Beat Battle, he focused in on his compositions and picked out the best of the best. He was on time to all the meetings and events for the selected producers and also researched past winners.

The energy at the beat battle was raw and exciting. Many of St. Louis’s hip hop artists, producers, promoters and entertainers were in attendance. Once Trifeckta’s name was announced as the winner the crowd went wild!

Making it to the Finals was a surreal moment for him. “I just want to help provide artists with quality tracks so that we can all build on our talents and make better music,” he humbly stated.

He will soon be flying off to Chicago for the main event.

He’s looking forward to going and networking with likeminded individuals and also representing for his city and himself. Hopefully he will come home with the win which includes producing a track for an A-List national recording artist. Trifeckta has a keen ear for music and is a positive individual with a winning attitude who is sure to produce continued success.

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Words by: Tiffany S. Nashville Photography by: Lawrence Bryant

elanie Fiona is a bright, young R&B artist and Kanye West protage’ from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Born Melanie Hall, the singer grew up in innercity Toronto to Guayanese parents. Fiona developed a passion for music at an early age, influenced by groups and artists such as the Ronettes and Whitney Houston.

It’s no surprise, then, that she offers a throwback retro sound to complement her immaculate voice. Though she has been active in the music industry since 2002, her first recorded release came with Reggae Gold 2008, in the form of the track “Somebody Come Get Me.” The track was instantly acclaimed as a highlight, as well as a fan favorite on the album, and it helped her get signed to Universal Motown. Fiona released her debut single, “Give It to Me Right,” which samples “Time of the Season” by the Zombies. Fiona’s melismatic and dynamic vocal propelled the

Melanie Fiona

single to the Top 20 on the Canadian Hot 100,in addition to

CHARTING ON THE ~BILLBOARD HOT R&B/HIP-HOP SONGS CHART. HER DEBUT ALBUM, THE BRIDGE, WAS RELEASED IN THE FALL OF 2009 and was a Top 25 album on the Canadian Album Chart.

The album which was spearheaded by Andrea Martin, and its lead single also charted in the U.K. and Italy. She is also known for being the opening act on Kanye West’s European tour in 2008, which is notable because she hadn’t even released an album at the time of the tour.

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Words by: Tiffany S. Nashville

Dw ele Hoping he can “Find a Way” back to his “Old Lova” and her “Flapjacks”, Andwele, whom fans know as Dwele, wooed the hearts of St. Louisans at Freetime LLC’s fifth anniversary party (www.freetimestl.com).

Photography by: Lawrence Bryant

Before hitting the club, he took a slight detour and saw the hot air balloons take off at Forest Park and even had a meal at Sweetie Pie’s. Then he took over the stage with his DJ skills and, of course, he crooned on the mic for the ladies.

“I’ve been doing music all my life, since age 10 or 11. I started out as a producer but felt a song wasn’t complete unless it had vocals or rhyming on it. I used to do the rhymes, vocals, poetry, and whatever else it took. When I did the album RIZE, my manager shopped it to get me the deal.

It was majority vocals. So I gradually turned into a singer but actually rhymed more than I sang back in the day.”

Though all of his songs are his babies, “I Understand” from his latest album Wants World Women is a favorite. He gains inspiration from everything: “…Life experience, what I’m going through, what I see people going through, and things I want to go through.

Lyrics don’t have to be based on reality; you can speak on fairy tales.” He has too many people to name that he wants to work with and has some things brewing in the musical pot. He still wants to work with Erykah Badu. He feels his music is real left but doesn’t stretch out that far and she could bring it out of him.

Dwele may not have been to STL much while touring, but maybe in due time that will change. He may not sing music that “appeals to the masses” but those in attendance at Freetime’s fifth anniversary party sure beg to differ!

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RE-OPENED

Photography by: Lawrence Bryant

Words by: Bell Davis

CASE

S

mooth sounds surfaced in the 90’s from many singing sensations. Male rhythm and blues artist lulled us with ballads about love, sex, and life. Some of our favorite artists from that era include Donell Jones, Jodeci, Genuine, R. Kelly and Case.

Case was born in New York and decided at a young age that he was put on Earth to sing. Willing to risk everything for his music, his journey is a roller coaster ride filled with passion for his music. After being homeless at 17 because of his parents disdain for his career choice, he experienced loneliness, combined with harsh realities and strife. He was not willing to give up. Soon he made the connections he needed to make and was discovered by mogul, Russell Simmons.

In 1996 he was introduced to us on The Nutty Professor Soundtrack with a song featuring Foxy Brown called “Touch Me, Tease Me”. Shortly following he was able to produce many more chart topping records including “Faded Pictures” which featured Joe; and “Happily Ever After” in which Beyonce’ made a video cameo as his bride. He has sold 3 million albums worldwide, achieving his musical dream. At the height of his career, he had to make a decision to continue with his passion, or watch his children grow, which led to him taking a break in 2001 to be closer to his children. After his hiatus he realized that he still wanted to make more music.

After releasing an album in 2009 called The Rose Experience, he immediately hit the studio to work on his 2010 album called Here, My Love. This is his fifth album and he is looking forward to the success of it. Strengthening his writing skills, focus, and subject matter; he is sure to make a great comeback with this album.

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10 THINGS NOT TO DO ON VALENTINES DAY

It’s that time of year when love is in the air and people are constantly shot down by cupids arrow. People celebrate Valentines Day to pay tribute to Saint Valentines undying love for his mistress. While many guys succeed in winning over girls heart, there are some who only manage to make fools of themselves. Here’s MY ADVICE on 10 things NOT to do on Valentines day.

1. We all have someone who we secretly love and valentines day cards are the best way to express it. But do not sent a card to him/ her through a common friend, especially if the card says “CALL ME” (in red with your number next to it)

6. Guys love to give girls sexy thongs with an intimate note. But avoid notes like “Your sister looked really sexy in it, so I thought you would too! Hope you like it. And don’t worry, I washed it.”

2. Its good to send intimate cards to your girlfriend, but DON’T send cards like:“Roses are red, violets are blue.

7. DON’T give 10 different girls the same card and think that they will never find out, because trust me. They will, they ALWAYS do!

Since the time i saw you, i knew i was in love with you” P.S. Wana try anal?

3. Don’t buy her a bunch of carnations and say “My bad. But the red roses were too damn expensive!!”

4. Take her out for an expensive dinner but when the bill arrives DON’T say “God damn dawg!! I could have drunk 5 beers for this much! And I’m not even getting laid tonight!!”

5. When you spend the day with her or take her out for dinner DON’T wear a t-shirt reading “I’M WITH STUPID”.

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8. It’s great to have music on while having sex, it makes things even more sensual then before. But avoid playing songs like Jodeci’s “So you having my Baby” or 2 Live Crew’s “Doo Doo Brown”, it wont make her have multiple orgasms.

9. You should always be a gentleman when you’re with her on this special day. If she accidentally slips on a wet floor then it’s best not to say “Dumb Ass!!!”

10. It goes without saying that you should always use a condom while having sex. But for pete’s sake DON’T buy cherry flavored condoms. It’s not romantic, it’s just wrong…plain damn WRONG!

DECLAWING THE COUGAR DELUX MAGAZINE WINTER 2010/11 133 Commentary by Judith Brower Fancher

A recent study of age preferences among single women conducted at the University of Wales Institute in Cardiff came to a firm conclusion: Cougars do not exist. After sifting through thousands of singles ads, head researcher Michael Dunn declared: “I do believe the cougar phenomenon is a myth and, yes, a media construct.”

We at Delux Magazine disagreed. So did Judith Brower Fancher, author of Females and Younger Men. WE at Delux approached Fancher with a request to reassure our readers that cougars do, in fact, exist. Here’s her defense:

T

he Myth: Cougars Are Imaginary Creatures At the same moment I launched my book, Females and Younger Men, to point out the global trend of women dating and marrying younger men and explain why this trend has occurred, a study came out from a college professor. The study was based on researching dating websites and his own interviews. His finding was that women still preferred older men, and that the cougar trend was a myth.

The study got tons of media attention. Reuters ran it and that piece was picked up and reprinted or reposted by dozens of other media. But Time magazine put out an article in which the reliability of the study was indeed questioned, as did the Huffington Post.

See, the problem is, the study is flawed. As we know, college professors do their research on college freshmen (remember all those mandatory experiments you did in your Psych 100 class?). OK, news flash: 18-year-old college females who take those surveys aren’t looking for younger men -- in fact, that would be illegal.

But there’s a bigger problem with the study: The professor ignored the facts.

The Fact: Women are dating and marrying younger men Here’s proof: On a Sunday, in July of 2009, 7 of the 25 marriages covered in the venerable New York Times were women with younger men -- nearly 30%.

According to the BBC, 26% of British brides were older than their grooms -- more than one in four marriages. This number “soared” from 15% to 26% in 25 years, according to the BBC.

A recent AARP survey conducted with women ages 40 to 69 found that 34% of them -- more than one-third -- date younger men.

It’s truly global. A survey in Turkey conducted in 1987 stated that approximately 55,000 women married men younger than themselves. By 2006, that number had nearly doubled to 90,000.

A new study by Statistics Korea noted that even in the traditional Korean society, the number of females marrying younger men has jumped from 10.1% in 1999 to 14.3% in 2009.

Females and younger men are a spicy combination So, are Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore an anomaly? Not if you remember fellow legendary cougar Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins. Tim is 12 years younger.

They have broken up, but were together for more than 20 years, which is longer than many relationships in or out of Hollywood.

There’s the idea that the women are chasing younger men because they can’t keep a man their own age interested.

Uh, yeah, I’d wager there might be at least one or two 47-year-old men who wouldn’t mind dating Demi if she were single.

Last I checked, Madonna was not looking for a man to support her. However, Madonna had her daughter with her personal trainer who was seven years younger, and after divorcing her husband Guy Ritchie, who was 10 years younger, went on to date A-Rod, who is 17 years younger, then Jesus Luz, who is 28 years younger.

Fancher continues declawing the cougar When David Beckham, then 24, went in hot pursuit of then-25 year-old Posh Spice (Victoria Beckham), it would be hard to think that he was the victim of a desperate woman who couldn’t get an older guy to like her. And, OK, she’s only a year older, but she certainly wasn’t unable to attract an older man.

Why the cougar slur?

OK, so men who date younger women are called “men.” But women who date younger men are called “cougars.”

What’s up with that? Why is it a crime for a woman to be older -- by a year, six years or 17 years?

We know the women didn’t give themselves a derisive nickname, so it likely came from men. And the reason is clear: Most people don’t like change.

Females and younger men (FAYM) is indeed a relatively new trend that has only flourished during the last 20 years.

Likely, the real demon here is equality of the sexes. If young women no longer need older men to “take care of them,” does that mean that men are less important in women’s lives? No. Women love men.

Believe me, you’re our No. 1 fascination whether we’re age 7 or 70.

So, the idea that women who date younger men are predators looking for victims certainly didn’t come from the women. In fact, because the younger men are called, and call themselves, “cougar hunters,” it is obviously still the men who are the pursuers. No need to worry there.

The competition heats up So women still love men and men are still the hunters. But one reason 45-yearold men might not be excited about FAYM relationships, and that might lead them to

belittle these women, is competition. If women are dating and marrying younger men, the 45-year-old guys’ competition might now be 32. “Oh, hey what?” the

“I’m supposed to be in the same shape as the 32 year olds to get a 37-year-old woman?”

men say.

Not a pretty thought. Women have, of course, been dealing with this forever, but now it’s the men who have to seriously watch their diets and get to the gym for something a lot more real than a steam and shower.

compete with a confident, well-dressed 37-year-old woman who can actually carry on a conversation.

The one thing that’s true about the cougar slur is that older women are much more confident about their bodies, in bed and about the fact that a good relationship has a lot to do with communicating to their partner about what they like. For men, that should be a relief. Instead of trying to guess what their woman wants, they can find a woman who comes with an instruction manual.

This isn’t a small problem for men because it’s not that they can’t find a woman, it’s just that they might have to do more than just flash a silver AmEx to impress. In fact, because women are now seeking men they love rather than someone to take care of them, money just might not do it. Oh sure, there will always be gold diggers, but now they’re female and male.

And everyone else will go on looking for someone they actually love.

The competition swings both ways Who else is calling older women who are dating and marrying younger men cougars? Young women. Because they now have new competition too. When an insecure 20-something female is checking out a 32-year-old guy, she doesn’t want to

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Spreading the

Spoken Word By: Jason Bailey | Mocha Latte

Got Lyrics Is Back!

Kels, Lightning, Sir Irvin, Knowledge, 16 Bars, Robert Dillard, Shana Frazier, Louis Confliction and Black Falcon all joined Mocha Latte at Harris Stowe University for the return of Got Lyrics.

Mocha is known as one of the hottest hosts and tightest promoters in St. Louis but one of her first loves is poetry. She started writing and performing to ease the stress in her own life. When she finally shared her work she found out it helps other people too.

She blazed every open mic in St. Louis, performed at weddings and other events and 4 years ago she started “Got Lyrics.” The weekly poetry jam was like therapy for her and for everyone involved.

“It’s not about competition,” said Mocha. “It’s about release.”

GL went on strong for about 2 years with a hiatus here and there to change locations but it was always extremely popular.

She put it on the back burner in late 2008 but it’s back and promises to be better than ever.

Nearly 200 students packed Harris Stowe’s Emerson Theatre

to check out the crew of poets Mocha brought. But true to form the floor was opened up for anyone with lyrics to spit to step on stage. Nearly 20 students added their talent to the program and resurrected GL in fine style.

“They talked about everything from safe sex to domestic violence,” said Mocha.

In the meantime Mocha isn’t resting on her laurels. She’s featured on the upcoming St. Lunatics album for a reason.

Always the innovator she plans on making “Got Lyrics” a monthly instead of a weekly program this time around.

And she’s not looking for a permanent home for the event.

According to her she will move it around the city to different spots. Mocha refuses to be tied down.

The next step is the “Got Lyrics College Tour.” The plan is for her and select poets to travel to schools and spread the love. If you know the word wizards that have performed at GL in the past you know they spit fire.

Call Mocha at 314.646.9917 for more info. Got Lyrics will be the last Wednesday of every month.

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6 She mimics your body movements For some reason, when human beings are interested or infatuated with each other, they begin to pick up certain traits from the other person. If she’s mimicking your mannerisms -the way you hold a drink or the way you’re sitting -- she may very well be interested in gaining your attention and is giving you solid signs she’s flirting. Imitation is a rather high form of flattery, after all.

5 She plays with her hair While relatively simple and commonplace, in the right hands a woman’s hair is a versatile weapon. When trying to get your attention, she may twirl her hair in her fingers or let it cascade in front of one eye, adding a sense of come-hither mystery to her persona.

4 She touches you The slight touch that sends chills up both your spines and makes your hair stand on end is one of the hallmark signs she’s flirting. When she reaches out and lightly touches your forearm or shoulder, hand or wrist, you know you have a live one. You need to reciprocate because there are few clearer signs she can provide.

3 She makes eye contact It has been said that the eyes are the windows to the soul,

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and that through the eyes truth can be gleamed. Eye contact is a sign of confidence and trust. She’s stating that she is not interested in games and that her intentions are straightforward.

The duration of the eye contact is proportional to her level of initial interest.

2 She enters your personal space Personal space, by definition, is where others are not. When a woman enters this space, say, brushing past you with a glance and a smile, she’s inviting a response with this sure sign she’s flirting. The caliber and character of her invasion will give you cues as to how you should respond.

1 She approaches you to talk Her approach may be closely tied to No. 2, but this cue takes it a step further. Cutting through any game she may be playing, her approach and specific engagement by speaking is playing her strongest flirting card. It allows her, while speaking to you, to maintain eye contact, play with her hair, lightly touch you, and mimic your mannerisms among other flirting techniques. If she’s come over to talk to you, she wants to know what you’re all about. It’s the first step in an interview process called dating.

FLIRTING 101 While it may not seem like it to the average man, women flirt and spend as much time obsessing over their actions as their male counterparts. Since that’s the case, it would behoove any man to not only hone his own flirting skills, but sharpen his observational skills as well.

There is no need to deny it, we were all raised by that glorious idiot box. We marched down the stairs on Saturday mornings to eat cereal and watch endless hours of TV. There was no need for childhood imagination because there were cartoons. These cartoons raised us, they created us, and they still influence us today. Our childhood fascinations have made movies like the Dark Knight monstrous hits.

Here is an homage to our parents, our mentors, our life coaches. These are the eight greatest Saturday morning cartoons in history.

Thundercats

Voltron

ATTENTION: PHOTOGRAPHERS, WRITERS, SALES REPS, AND COFFEE RUNNERS...

DELUX MAGAZINE Wants YOU!

The SuperFriends

Transformers

Fraggle Rock

He-Man & The Masters of The Universe

Spiderman & His Amazing Friends

Hong Kong Phooey

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DELUXREADS

Excerpts from Jay-Z’s forthcoming book Decoded were published in the New York Post in November, and they promise that the book is every bit as entertaining as fans have been anticipating. Pulled over by cops with drugs in the car?

Check. Anger at Cristal’s apparent repudiation of the hip-hop culture that brought it millions? Sure. Great stories about Notorious B.I.G.? Indeed.

Decoded went on sale November 16. The day before, Jay held a talk at the New York Public Library, hosted by Cornel West, along with the library’s Paul Holdengräber.

Some of the book’s juiciest bits: What “99 Problems” Is Really About During his early years as a crack dealer, Jay was driving down Interstate-95 with a stash hidden in his car, and was pulled over by police for “no good reason.”The officers couldn’t search the car without probable cause, so a K-9 unit was called.

But the unit didn’t show up, and Jay was released. Minutes later, he saw the K-9 unit tearing down the highway in the other direction, but he was already free.

In the book, he reveals that the famous line from his 2004 song “99 Problems” — “I got 99 problems but a bitch ain’t one” — is not about a woman but a female dog, or the dogs he dodged that day. “It would have changed my life if that dog had been a few seconds faster,” he writes.

The Dangers of Hip-Hop Stardom Jay was close friends with the Notorious B.I.G. — the two teamed up for the classic “Brooklyn’s Finest” on Jay’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt — and in the book Jay talks about the mid-’90s murders of Biggie and Tupac Shakur. Jay writes: “They were both perfectly safe before they started rapping; they weren’t being hunted by killers until they got into music. Biggie was on the streets before he started releasing music, but he never had squads of shooters (or the Feds) coming after him until he was famous.”

Jay also writes about his 2003 collaboration with Eminem, “Moment of Clarity.” At the studio session, Jay went to hug his friend, and realized Em was wearing a bulletproof vest. Jay writes that Em should have been “on a boat somewhere” rather than living in fear for his life.

A Notorious Blunt In another Biggie moment, Jay recalls the MC making a cameo appearance in the video for “Ain’t No N---a,” which Jay was filming with Foxy Brown in Miami in 1996. Jay-Z says he was never much of a pot smoker and only did so on vacation. “I could count the number of times I’d smoked trees,” he writes. But when Big offered him a smoke, he thought to himself, “Relax, you’re not on the streets anymore.” So he smoked — and got completely wasted, just as the video shoot was to begin. Seeing what he had done, Biggie laughed and whispered to Jay, “I got ya.” Jay said it took him 20 minutes to pull himself together. Later on, he told Big, “Never again, my n---a.”

Flat Champagne Biggie also introduced Jay to Cristal Champagne in 1994. Since then, he and other hip-hop stars helped popularize the expensive drink by name-checking it in their rhymes. But when Cristal executive Frederic Rouzad was asked about the drink’s hip-hop connotations, he said, “We can’t forbid people from buying it.” Jay promptly led a boycott. “That was a slap in the face,” he writes. “I released a statement saying that I would never drink Cristal or promote it in any way or serve it at any of my clubs ever again. I felt like this was the kind of bullshit I’d been dealing with forever, this kind of patronizing disrespect for the culture of hip-hop.”

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The City Ultra Lounge

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g n o l e B y t u i C Yo e h T 2

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Photography: Keith N Griffin II | Words: De’Marja Patrick

he atmosphere of The City Ultra Lounge is sexy and sophisticated, with its Miami style LED lighting, draped off VIP sections and ample dance floor space, you are sure to have a good time. The City Ultra Lounge is located at 1917 Washington Ave., downtown west and has become a choice nightlife scene for the Delux magazine crew.

As the only black owned venue on Washington Ave., the lounge set out a year ago and a half ago to create a unique experience. Owner Jason Spain, a University City native, has focused on the experience of the people attending and does not want to compromise the quality for the quantity or size of the venue. The lounge is decorated with sofas and comfy chairs, so that the people that are not rocking out to the DJ on the dance floor can relax and enjoy a drink. “We never focused on the masses, but more so the experience,” said Spain. As one of St. Louis’s best kept secrets, The City Ultra Lounge has continued to present a quality that people come back for. “We don’t do radio, most of our business comes from great referrals,” said Spain. The City, has tailored an experience from everything to live music, top 40, hip-hop and even the dress code. With the people and service, The City Ultra Lounge wants to go the extra mile.

“What ever your favorite city is, we want The City Ultra Lounge to be that city,” said Spain.

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BACKTALK

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REPS: Austin, Texas STATS: 34C-24-39 When did you realize that you wanted to be a model? When I showed up on the set of my first video for Chalie Boy “I Look Good.” The director Mr. Boomtown liked my look and made me the leading role.

Who inspires you? Not inspired by any models -- Kim Kardashian inspires me.

She is a true business woman, a true Mogul.

What makes you stand over the other models around you? Im not plastic. (I kid! I kid!) No seriously, I have a go getter work ethic. Im a very intelligent lady full of passion and ambition and people respond to that and respect that.

What’s the craziest/sexiest thing that’s has happen to you, both on and off set?

Nothing. Sorry no juicy stories here!

JaVonnie NiKita Photography: D Brown Words: Michael Winfield |

Boyshorts, G-String, or commando? So you aren’t going to ask if I wear boxers or briefs? *wink once again I kid! I kid! Can you say Pantiless Princess! HaHa! I see you are a complete beautiful package... what are your best attributes?

My smile, eyes, and of course my beauty mark. Thats my trade mark!

Describe your perfect mate? Im not the type of female that has a crazy check list for her perfect mate. I just want to meet a nice gentleman that I can respect and trust and vice versa. He definitely has to be able to make me laugh...I love to laugh!

Laughter keeps you feeling young. And I definitely want to be with someone that can make me feel young as we grow old.

Thank you... Any last words for the readers? Follow me on twitter so you can keep up with my lastest projects. www. twitter.com/JaVonnieNiKita

ME! • Charlie boy “I look good” • Louisian Cash “walk wit a dip” • Baby Bash/Pitbull “Outta Control” • Paul wall “ Lemon Drop” • Dorrough” Wired to the t” • Dorrough/TumTum” Trunk Bang” • Trill Real and Prince Rick “Mr. Hit that Hoe” • Bun B feat GLC “Happiness before Riches” • Dorrough “Get Big” • Hurricane Chris “Coke Bottle” (coming soon) • Solo Thee feat Brian Angel of Day 26 “PlayBoi bunny” (coming soon)

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It’s Black Friday! Fresh off an evening of gluttony and a morning of intolerance as the number of people in line for your big-ticket item outnumbered the quantity housed in the store; the one thing left to salvage the day was your chance to see Trey Songz and Usher at the OMG Tour going down at the Scottrade Center.

From the beginning, this diverse crowd—spanning from ages 8 to 88—sang songs of excitement and ecstasy as both Trey Songz and Usher delivered in only a way that could keep the cute-shoe-wearing divas from considering the consequences of standing on their feet all night. With all the sexiness that was served, the after-parties could only be filled with dateless prospects, prowling for some play; while the rest of the city settled in and recreated their own renditions of the sexy songs of the evening.

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DELUX MAGAZINE, HENNESSEY BLACK, & THE CITY ULTRA LOUNGE

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Images Courtesy of

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