Street Cred Magazine - February 2023

NEW YEAR, NEW SINGLE, NEW ALBUM, NEW TOUR!

Burna Boy apologises for late performance at concert IN LAGOS

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy has apologised to fans after being criticised for a late performance at a concert that saw him take to the stage in the small hours of the morning.

In a statement on Instagram, the musician blamed organisers for his lateness at the Love Damini Concert held in Lagos. "The organisational structure and infrastructure are not there for the

complexities of my audio and production needs," the musician said.

He added: "I apologise to my fans for how hectic it was, thank you for staying and weathering the storm with me." He said he would be working with investors to build world-class infrastructure in the Nigerian entertainment business.

The singer is one of the most successful African musicians in the world.

Mourners Still Reeling After Death Of Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer, Fred White

THE DEATH OF EARTH, Wind & Fire drummer, Fred White, has left family friends and fellow-band members reeling.

The Chicago-born child drumming prodigy was one of the first members to join the group founded by his older brothers Maurice and Verdine.

The jazz fusion outfit was one of the best-selling groups of all time, with more than 90 million records sold worldwide. Their best-known hits include September and Boogie Wonderland.

White began drumming at nine years old, and featured on his first gold record, Donny Hathaway's Live, at just 16. In 1974, he joined the band, who, over the years, won six Grammys and four American Music Awards, as well as entering the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, and gaining a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

His death was announced on Instagram by his brother, and fellow-band member and coEarth, Wind & Fire founder, Verdine (White), who wrote: "Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our be-

First look at the cast of The Way Old Friends Do

loved brother Frederick Eugene 'Freddie' White.

“As well as his drumming success, White was a wonderful brother who was "always entertaining and delightfully mischievous. We could always count on him to make a seemingly bad situation more light-hearted!

“He will live in our hearts forever, rest in power beloved Freddie!"

Earth Wind & Fire shot to fame with its triple platinum album That's the Way of the World, before continuing on with an illustrious music career worldwide.

Fred White was 67.

Birmingham Rep and James Seabright have released a set of first look images featuring the full cast of Ian Hallard’s brand-new play, The Way Old Friends Do, which receives its world premiere at The Rep from 17 Feb – 4 Mar 2023.

Simultaneously tender and laugh-out-loud funny, this heartfelt story, written by and starring Ian Hallard (The Boys In The Band) is directed by Mark Gatiss (Sherlock, Dracula, Doctor Who, The League of Gentlemen).

The cast includes Donna Berlin (Doctors) James Bradshaw (Endeavour), Sara Crowe (Olivier Award winner for Private Lives), Andrew Horton

(Jupiter’s Legacy) and Rose Shalloo (Call The Midwife).

This wonderfully uplifting play also features the voices of two of the UK’s best-loved performers, Miriam Margolyes and Paul O'Grady. In 1988, two school friends tentatively come out to one another: one as gay, the other - more shockingly - as an ABBA fan.

Nearly thirty years later, a chance meeting sets them on a brand-new path and they decide to form the world’s first ABBA tribute band - in drag! But can their friendship survive the tribulations of a life on the road which includes platform boots, fake beards and a distractingly attractive stranger?

A story that will appeal to anyone who understands how it feels to be a fan: of ABBA or of anyone. Following its run at Birmingham Rep, The Way Old Friends Do will embark on a tour of the UK, which will include its London premiere at The Park Theatre.

The Way Old Friends Do, which receives its world premiere at The Rep from 17 Feb – 4 Mar 2023. To book tickets visit Birmingham-rep.co.uk, call 0121 236 4455 or visit the box office during opening hours.

Scentscational Valentines gifts

JUST AS WE’RE getting over the festive period, Valentine's Day arrives with everyone’s finances feeling the pinch. People, thought, might be interested in some luxury for less for any gift guides you’re pulling together.

Fragrance company

Noted.Aromas specialises in designer dupes, so think scents inspired by Le Labo, Chanel and

some of Tom Ford's finest but without the designer price tag. Just in case you're wondering it was Monte Carlo - a dupe of Molly Mae's fave Baccarat Rouge which is cheaper than the original.

When you're thinking; 'just another PR and their too good to be true perfumes...' these are pretty epic!

Celebrate Valentines

AS THE UK emerged from recurring lockdowns, research from Barclaycard in 2022 revealed that seven in 10 Brits living with a partner (70%) and nearly twothirds (62%) of people in a relationship, but living separately, intended to celebrate Valentine's Day with their other half. And, in 2022, Brits spent approximately £1.37 billion celebrating the calendar

Top TikTok recipes ideas to surprise your Valentine

WITH THIS YEAR’S Valentine's Day being free from lockdown, we are expecting to see around 90% of the UK celebrating with gifts, dates, and much more. Resulting in £1.3 billion+ being spent on this holiday of love!

NEXT home has scoured the internet searching out the most romantic TikTok recipes to recreate at home, for your significant other, kids, or even yourself. With tasty breakfast recipes such as Pesto Eggs and Japanese Soufflé

Pancakes right through to the taste Delgona coffee and desserts like Hot chocolate bombs- there really is something for everyone! Using some of the most viral TikTok recipes, you could treat your valentine to breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and snacks - all from the comfort of your own home! Next Home has created a TikTok recipe index containing the most popular recipes on TikTok alongside their nutritional values, the ingredients and a stepby-step guide to recreate at home.

Recipe trends such as Feta Pasta and Dalgona Coffee have taken the internet by storm, with some TikTok recipe videos seeing as many as 3.2 billion views (and counting). But what are the world’s favourite TikTok recipes and how can they be recreated in your home kitchen? Next Home has looked at the number of TikTok views, Google search volume for the recipe, Instagram hashtags, the number of ingredients and the prep and cooking time to uncover the easiest and most pop-

occasion, popularly associated with love and romance, according to figures from Wunderkind. Whilst 'Valentine's Day' and 'date night' remain popular DesignMyNight searches in London for this year's celebrations, it appears that people are looking for something different, with 'quirky date ideas' currently topping the list of Valentine's Day queries.

ular TikTok recipes to recreate at home.

The top 10 easiest and most popular TikTok recipes to make for your Valentine are:

1. Dalgona Coffee (583M views)

2. Cloud bread (3.2 billion views)

3. Hot chocolate bombs (308.7M views)

4. Angel Milk (24.8M views)

5. Shakshuka (37.4M views)

6. Oreo Mug Cake (144.8M views)

7. Nature's Cereal (924.7M views)

8. Breakfast Sandwich (192M views)

9. Twisted Bacon (14.4M views)

10. Frozen Corn Syrup (59.1M views)

It's never too late to create the perfect date night

Food & Fine Dining

LOVE IS IN THE AIR AT MANDIRA'S KITCHEN FOR VALENTINE'S DAY 2023

Evenings are still dark and there is nothing more romantic than a cosy night in!

What is unromantic is spending all your time in the kitchen, so Mandira's Kitchen are determined to keep romance alive – and spicy without time out in preparation.

Mandira's Kitchen have put together a romantic Indian meal for two that can be delivered frozen to any UK Mainland address. It can be heated from frozen in just 4 minutes so there is no need to waste ages in the kitchen.

Every menu comes with a Bollywood playlist, a Kama Sutra sheet and a movie suggestion. Bringing some spice to Valentine's Day, Mandira's Kitchen have prepared a set menu which includes: - Classic Meat dishes or Vegetarian or Vegan options with crispy samosas and pakoras and a se-

lection of dishes cooked with love.

Gulabi Pulao (a fragrant basmati rice cooked with beetroot to give it a delicate pink hue). Shah Jehani Dal (from the dining table of Emperor Shah Jehan, a mix of lentils and spices cooked with coconut milk) with sweeting endings of Gajar Halwa – a mouth-watering carrot pudding, Masala Chai and Chilli Chocolates.

Mandira Sarkar, owner and founder of Mandira's Kitchen is very keen to spread a little love at this special time of year with her delicious food and says: “You cannot love well if you have not dined well goes the old saying. So, our Valentine's Day menu woos your eyes and your tastebuds.

“Clearly all designed to recreate the perfect romantic meal at home.” All items can be ordered online and either collected from Mandira's Kitchen at The Silent Pool Guildford or delivered to any UK Mainland address.

New liqueur made available for your Valentine

THIS VALENTINE'S DAY, you can celebrate the love in your life with Devon Cove's Passion Liqueur. Unique and delicate, Passion Liqueur is made by combining fresh passion fruits with Cove's luxuriously smooth Devon potato vodka and the result is enchanting, exotic and absolutely delicious.

Try Cove Passion Liqueur over ice with a twist of grapefruit, with cloudy lemonade or in the crowd-pleasing Pornstar Martini cocktail. Presented in a stylish bottle with a wooden cork, so you can easily reseal the bottle after use, although it tastes so good you might not need to.

Commenting on this unique prod-

Celebrity Chef Lagasse Named Carnival Cruise Line’s CCO

Carnival will feature two iconic talents in the food and dining industry, Guy Fieri and Emeril Lagasse, across its fleet.

“Food is key to the fun of a Carnival cruise,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, announcing the appointment of famed celebrity chef and restauranteur Emeril Lagasse as cruise line’s Chief Culinary Officer.

“Emeril’s restaurants on our two new ships have been a great addition to our dining offerings and guests rave about the food, which will also be on Carnival Jubilee come next December. With Emeril’s culinary expertise and broader profile on our ships, along with our wildly popular partnership with Food Network star Guy Fieri, Carnival will feature two iconic talents in the food and dining industry across our fleet,” Duffy added.

A restaurant concept created by Emeril Lagasse, Emeril’s Bistro, is already popular on two of Carnival Cruise Line‘s most innovative ships, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, and now the famous chef’s culinary talents will be utilized fleetwide. In conjunction with this announcement, Carnival also announced that Carnival Jubilee will also feature an Emeril’s Bistro when it arrives in Galveston, Texas in December 2023.

uct, Devon Cove Founder, Leanne Carr says: “Tired of the synthetic alternatives, I had wanted to create a liqueur using fresh Passion Fruits for a long time and I am simply thrilled with the result. Those who try it are too, enjoying it on its own over ice as a lighter alternative to a whisky digestive, as well as with mixers or as part of a cocktail.”

The expansion of their range of liqueurs is also offering Devon Cove the chance to increase their range of cocktails kits for customers to make at home. Leanne is somewhat of a master mixologist and has relished the opportunity to feature Cove Passion Liqueur in new cocktail kits such as the Cove Passion

Fruit Martini Kit. This is their take on the ever-popular Pornstar Martini cocktail and combines their luxuriously smooth vodka with their Passion Liqueur, vanilla, pineapple and lime to create a tantalising treat. Stylishly presented with a box of delicious macarons, this kit would make the perfect Valentine's Day gift.

The Cove Passion Fruit Martini Kit offers four servings and includes one 20cl bottle of Cove Vodka, 20cl Cove Passion Liqueur, 20cl Monin Vanilla Syrup, 20cl Pineapple Juice, simple instructions and a box of 6 delicious macarons from Pretty Little Pastries.

As Chief Culinary Officer, Lagasse will support Carnival’s skilled chefs with guidance on food trends and techniques as well as advise on future menu items and dining concepts. Guests will also see his input on the menus of main dining rooms fleetwide, including entrées designated as “Emeril recommends” picks.

“I’ve been creating and operating restaurants for many years but developing my restaurants with Carnival and learning about the cruise industry has been an exhilarating experience. I love Carnival’s focus on food and fun and the many great dining options they offer their guests. I’m looking forward to building on our success at sea with Carnival’s exceptional culinary team,” said Lagasse.

By Mandip Singh Taunque

RuPaul’s DragCon

sashayed back to London on 6th January, welcoming thousands of excited fans, over 150 extraordinary drag queens from around the world and celebrity fans including Chloe Burrows, Duncan James, Louisa Harland and Samira Mighty to its new home of ExCeL London.

Created by RuPaul and World of Wonder Productions, RuPaul’s DragCon UK, returned bigger and fiercer than ever before.

On the first of the three-day spectacular event, RuPaul’s Drag Race host and Emmy® Award-winner, RuPaul, ceremoniously cut the coveted pink ribbon with Michelle Visage and queens from across the global franchise by his side, ringing in the “Ru year” and the hotly awaited three-day extravaganza in style.

As the ribbon was cut, RuPaul said: “It’s so lovely to be back in England! We love you all so much and to be here for DragCon one more time is such an honour. Michelle Visage is here, the Queens are here, and we are going to have a good time. I want to christen this DragCon by saying this: Everybody say love! Now let’s get this DragCon started!”

The infamous Queens Walk saw

2023 Begins with Glitz & Glamour

visitors cheer on the arrival of over 150 queens from across the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise including UK, USA, Canada, Down

Under, Thailand, Philippines, Holland, Espana, Italia and France, who made their grand entrance by strutting down the legendary pink

carpet. All UK winners including The Vivienne (Season 1) Lawrence Chaney (Season 2), Krystal Versace (Season 3), Blu Hydrangea

(UK vs the World) and the newly crowned winner of Season 4, Danny Beard as well as international winners such as Carmen Farala (Drag Race España Season 1), Precious Paula Nicole (Drag Race Philippines Season 1) as well as recent winner from Canada vs World, Ra’Jah O’Hara to name but a few.

RuPaul’s DragCon UK also featured iconic performances from an array of UK and international queens, including one of the UK’s fiercest girl groups the Frock Destroyers.

DragCon’s biggest highlight were the meet and greet opportunities and panel discussions. Social media blew up with visitor’s sharing their pictures with the queens as well as videos of the performances.

Fans travelled from all around the world to meet their favourite queens all in one place. The Main Stage, sponsored by WOW Presents Plus, featured two outstanding DJ sets by RuPaul as well iconic performances by Drag Race fan-favourites while the dedicated Kids Zone sponsored by ‘Wild-

Brain’s’ Teletubbies provided fun for the whole family throughout the three-day celebrations, allowing kids (and kids at heart) to meet and greet the Teletubbies.

Beauty lovers enjoyed a sponsored Anastasia Beverly Hills Makeup competition judged by RuPaul’s very own make-up artist Raven, president of ABH Norvina and Season 1 winner of BBC Three’s Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star Ellis Atlantis.

Audible hosted an exclusive panel with Fenton Bailey - Executive Producer of RuPaul's Drag Race, Co-Founder of World of Wonder and author of ScreenAge: How TV Shaped Our Reality from Tammy Faye to RuPaul’s Drag Race (Ebury Press).

In conversation with Graham Norton, Fenton discussed topics from his literary debut, as well as all things Drag Race.

Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, Co-Founders of World of Wonder, said: “We are so excited that DragCon UK is back. Huge thanks to the more than 150 queens from the Drag Race Universe who participated, and to everyone who came out to see them.

A special shout out to the legendary and iconic Teletubbies who are reminders of the spirit of love and inclusiveness that DragCon represents.

It was great to be able to celebrate the new year and new season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 in person, and we look forward to serving up more fresh originals on WOW Presents Plus until we see each other again.”

In a series of in-conversation specials, The Phoenix Newspaper is proud to talk to some of the most iconic queens in attendance including Ginny Lemon, Baby, Black Pepper, Le Fil, Ra’Jah O’Hara, Tia Kofi and more. Look out for these in the coming issues.

RUPAUL’S DRAGCON UK took place at ExCeL London from 6-8 January 2023. Tickets are on sale now for RUPAUL’S DRAGCON LA on 12th and 13th May 2023.

Season 15 of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ is currently available exclusively in the UK via the streamer of all things drag, WOW Presents Plus, with new episodes dropping on Saturdays at 2AM GMT.

l World of Wonder Productions - Getty Images - Dave Benett

India Celebrating Historic Golden Globe Win With Epic ‘RRR’

INDIANS ARE celebrating after Telugu-language epic action drama, ‘RRR’ created history by winning a Golden Globe - a first for the country. The film's catchy musical number, Naatu Naatu, was awarded best original song, beating heavyweights like Taylor Swift and Rihanna.

The hit song was filmed in front of Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky's official residence in 2021. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi expressed the country’s joy, saying: "This prestigious honour has made every Indian very proud".

Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman described the win a "paradigm shift", while Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan wrote on Twitter that he "danced to Naatu Naatu" to celebrate the news.

Written and directed by SS Rajamouli, ‘RRR’, which

stands for Rise, Roar, Revolt, is a historical fantasy that tells the rollicking story of two revolutionaries who fight against British rule in India - superstars Ram Charan and Jr NTR play the lead roles. A Hindi-language version of the film on Netflix was among the platform's Top 10 most watched titles in the US for weeks when it released in May 2022.

On twitter, one fan wrote:

"This is history in making for Indian cinema at global platform". Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi Konidela, who is also Charan's father, called it a "phenomenal, historic win".

RRR was also nominated in the Best Non-English Language Film category at the Golden Globes, but lost to Argentine historical drama film ‘Argentina, 1985’.

Mimi’s highly anticipated debut album, Amelia, will feature 12 tracks including her smash hit “House On Fire,” and latest single “Ghost of You.”

The album is titled after her full first name, Amelia, which will give fans insight into both sides of the budding star- Amelia, the girl from the UK countryside who loves to be at home with her family, friends, and dogs; and Mimi, the pop artist who loves to be up on stage traveling the world. Amelia is available for pre-order now.

Mimi’s powerful vocals and lyrics are brought to life in the music video for Red Flags, directed by Drew Kirsch, as she takes viewers on a journey of hindsight, revenge, and reclaiming power that every scorned lover dreams about.

The song was written by Mimi Webb, Connor McDonough, Toby McDonough, Ryan Daly, Castle, Cirkut, and produced by Connor McDonough, Ryan Daly, and

Cirkut.

Mimi continues her ascent as one of the biggest artists to watch as she garnered a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2023 BRIT Awards.

Following the album’s release, she will hit the road for her 2023 headline tour, The Amelia Tour.

The 31-date tour will make stops across Europe and the UK, kicking off on March 11 in Madrid, Spain at Shoko continuing with stops in Berlin, Oslo, Paris, Manchester and more before concluding on April 24 in London, UK at O2 Academy Brixton. Multiple shows have already soldout including Dublin and all UK dates. Full tour routing below. Tickets are available now at mimiwebb.com.

In just two years the breakout artist has racked up over 852 million global streams to date, and multiple hit tracks including “House on Fire” and “Good Without.” Mimi’s performed at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in London, opened for Children

In Need, has played numerous festivals such as Capital FM’s Summertime Ball, Isle of Wight Festival, and Montreux Jazz Festival, and on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and ELLEN. She has garnered praise from

Madonna Announces 3rd & 4th London Dates

DUE TO PHENOMENAL demand, Madonna adds two extra dates to her The Celebration Tour in the UK, performing a total of four nights at London’s

The O2. Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th, Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th October 2023.

Produced by Live Nation, the 35-city global tour will kick off in North America on Saturday, July 15th at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC with stops in

the likes of British Vogue, Rolling Stone, Harper’s BAZAAR, GRAMMY.com, and Billboard.

Mimi shows no signs of slowing down as she gears up for the release of her debut album.

Detroit, Chicago, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and more before making its way to Europe where she will hit 11 cities throughout the fall, including London, Barcelona, Paris, and Stockholm, among others. The Celebration Tour will wrap in Amsterdam, NL on Friday, December 1st at Ziggo Dome.

The Celebration Tour will take us on Madonna’s artistic journey through four decades and pays

respect to the city of New York where her career in music began. “I am excited to explore as many songs as possible in hopes to give my fans the show they have been waiting for,” states Madonna.

The Celebration Tour will offer a one-of-a-kind experience with special guest Bob the Drag Queen a.k.a. Caldwell Tidicue across all dates on the global tour.

Consumer rights champion Justin Gutmann’s unprecedented lawsuit against Apple is moving forward.

The hearing has now been set by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) to commence from Tuesday 2 May 2023 until Thursday 4 May 2023 to determine whether the case should be certified as a collective action and proceed to a full trial.

Following a case management conference which took place on 22 November 2022, the CAT has confirmed that the CPO Hearing will take place to consider:

• If Mr Gutmann is suitable to act on behalf of the proposed class and if he should be certified to bring the claim.

• If the claim itself is eligible to be brought as a collective action and should proceed to a full trial.

If Mr Gutmann is successful, around 25 million UK customers who bought an iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus and X models would be entitled to approximately £768 million collectively in compensation for each model owned. As an optout claim, members of the class will not need to actively join the case to seek damages. Instead, they will be part of the claim unless they decide to opt out.

Members of the proposed class have until 20th January 2023 to object to Mr Gutmann as a class representative or object to the

Hearing Date Set For Legal Claim Against Apple

claim itself. Anyone with an interest in the claim going ahead can make oral and/or written submissions to the Tribunal.

Justin Gutmann says: “I am pleased to announce that the Competition Appeals Tribunal (CAT) has listed a hearing for my application for a Collective Proceedings Order (CPO) for 2nd - 4th May 2023. This is the first important stage in the case affecting millions of iPhone users in the UK who have had poor phone performance as a result of Apple’s abusive conduct. I will now be working with my legal team to prepare for the hearing to ensure our claim is certified so that we can move this claim forward.”

The CPO Hearing is in respect of a claim launched on 17 June 2022 by Justin Gutmann, formerly of Citizens Advice, on behalf of millions of iPhone users who have allegedly suffered loss due to being misled by iOS updates - claiming they would improve their iPhone’s performance when in fact it reduced it by up

to 58% in some cases.

Apple sold iPhones with batteries that were unable to cope with new iOS processing demands, which caused sudden shutdowns. Rather than undertaking a product recall and repair process to replace the batteries, Apple instead encouraged users to install iOS updates which had a pow-

er management tool concealed within them.

Affected iPhone users can receive more information on the legal proceedings by visiting The iPhone Claim - The iPhone Throttling Claim. The hearing can be attended or viewed via livestream at https:// www.catribunal.org.uk.

Catherine Cohen set for UK tour

FRESH FROM HER critically acclaimed Netflix special The Twist…? She’s Gorgeous, New York sensation and Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Catherine Cohen is set to embark on a tour of the UK for the first time with her eagerly anticipated second show, Come For Me.

Catherine Cohen’s charismatic persona shines through once more in Come For Me, an openly glamorous, decidedly horny musical exploration of what it means to enter your thirties as a woman online, in love, and inspired to romanticize the prospect of freezing your eggs. Emotionally prepare yourself for sexy stand-up & songs about finding your purpose, filling the void and sending nothing but love and light to anyone who isn’t addicted to your personality.

Catherine Cohen is best known for her hit Netflix comedy special The Twist…? She’s Gorgeous, which aired on the streaming giant globally earlier this year. The same live show won her the cov-

eted Dave’s Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer at the festival in 2019. Soon she can be seen in the Paramount+ feature film, At Midnight, and in the upcoming Hulu series What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding. She featured in Comedy Central's Awkwafina is Nora From Queens, and she joined the cast for Season 3 of FX’s critically acclaimed series What We Do In The Shadows.

She can also be seen leading the indie comedy Dating & New York, opposite fellow comedian Jaboukie Young-White which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and was acquired by IFC Films. Her other on-screen credits include Netflix’s series Special, and Michael Showalter’s feature The Lovebirds, Disney+ reboot of Home Alone, HBO’s High Maintenance, Comedy Central’s Broad City and TBS’s Search Party.

In 2021, she published her first book entitled God I Feel Modern Tonight, which is her collection of comedic poetry.

BEHIND THE MAKE UP: INSPIRATIONAL GLOBAL DRAG ICONS SPILL THE T WITH THE PHOENIX

By Mandip Singh Taunque

London’s ExCel played host to one of the world’s largest international Drag conventions featuring Drag Queens from every franchise including USA, UK, Canada, Philippines, Thailand, Down Under, Italia, Holland, France and Espana in January 2023 and The Phoenix Newspaper was there to experience it all and chat to some of the most iconic drag queens in the world.

In this edition, we chat to US star Ra’Jah O’Hara and UK star Ginny Lemon about how they got into drag in the first place, hardships they have faced, inspiring the next generation and looking forward to 2023.

Ra’Jah O’Hara

Rah’Jah O’Hara is a seasoned queen who has appeared in three different RuPaul Drag Race franchises including US Season 11 finishing 9th. She then appeared in US All Stars and was promoted to runner-up and most recently won the highly praised ‘Canada vs The World’.

Speaking to The Phoenix about how she started in the world of drag, Ra’Jah O’Hara tells us “I got into drag as a dare from my friends for Halloween. I am a Halloween Queen! I won the competition and then I fell so in love with drag and the response I got – I was like ‘oh girl I need this in my life a little bit more’. So I dove head first into it”.

You are one of the hardest working Queens out there having been on three different Drag Race shows and going straight to the top and winning the most recent. What drove you to return to such a highly competitive and intense competition?

What drove me to come back was to make another season of great TV. The expectation for returning was never to win but I knew that winning was absolutely my goal because I just barely missed out on the crown in All Stars 6 so I thought it was my time to come back and shine.

And that’s exactly what you did because you won and you are still shining and will do forever more! It takes a lot of guts to be a person of colour

to do what you are doing. Society isn’t always accepting.

What is your advice to the LGBTQIA+ kids of colour who may be struggling with their confidence in doing drag?

I would say that confidence really starts with yourself. It’s the things that you tell yourself in the mirror that hype you up to walk into any room and be confident in who you are and be capable of. But then also having the talent

where you are then there is nobody that can deny what you can do”. Wise words from a worthy winning Queen – thank you Ra’Jah O’Hara.

Ginny Lemon

Ginny Lemon competed on Season 2 of Drag Race UK and made a huge cultural and societal impact in one of the first discussions on being ‘non binary’ on British television with fellow racer ‘Bimini’. We discuss the uniqueness of their drag, the non-binary conversation and what’s ahead.

Ginny Lemon, you are one of the most beloved queens to have ever graced Drag Race. You are so unique, what inspired you to do your form of drag?

“My drag origin story is a bit of a depressing one. My sister passed away in 2016 and drag was a way for me to escape grief and it allowed me to step outside my own life and my own personality and create this character.

"Yellow is a traditional colour of healing and it is also the non-binary colour so I decided to surround myself in yellow and create this face and character for people and it was a way for me to hide behind my grief. I went out and did my shows.

"I’ve appeared on X-Factor, I did Drag Race and I did quite well for myself and all this time I didn’t realise I was doing alright. I was just grieving. That’s my origin story. My inspirations are very mixed.

episode, everyone was talking about it – schools, colleges, universities and workplaces. It was so inspiring what you and Bimini talked about. Did you ever think it would have the impact it went on to have?

Absolutely not. I had no idea until the producer rang me a few days before saying you have a hard episode coming up and I said ‘what do you mean?’ I thought it was about how I got into drag.

The conversation I had with Bimini was a conversation that up until it aired, I didn’t remember having because it was just a hu-

man moment between two non-binary people talking about what it is like being non-binary.

That was the first time ever on British TV where that has been done but I didn’t think about it twice. Bim and I were great friends before hand and still are.

The impact it had, well Bim and I were not prepared for any of it really but I went on to just make people laugh, be a fool, be controversial and be silly but in the end

I ended up melting people’s hearts and I really wasn’t expecting that! I am very grateful that us sharing that story has helped so many people.

Thank you for sharing that Ginny Lemon because you and Bimini really touched our hearts

Looking ahead what is 2023 looking like for you?

Not only am I going on tour with ‘Sister Sister’ in February – tickets are on sale now by the way, but it is going to be the year of positivity for me.

When I am going out, instead of being anxious all the time and assuming people are going to hate me from the off, I am going to go out there and assume I am going to have a good time and open myself to new things.

Coming to DragCon I was very nervous and thought am I really a Ru Queen? I am but don’t always feel that I am.

Coming here and seeing all these amazing queens and fans from all over the world is overwhelming and amazing so I am going to take this positivity and bring it in for 2023 and keep it going!

We wish you well Ginny Lemon! Look out for more chats with iconic queens in future editions of The Phoenix Newspaper!

and skill to back that confidence up because once you actually walk up on that stage – that’s how they know for sure you are talented and that there is no doubt that you belong.

I will say that for black and brown kids, it is already hard enough being black and brown growing up so I would say lean into that struggle and lean into the toughness that builds in your skin because when you make it to

"On one side I am inspired by British comedy – Victoria Wood, Julie Walters, Kathy Burke and Sue Pollard and on the other, artists such as Kate Bush, Bjork, Tori Amos and Enya. I am also inspired by my sister and the women in my family. What a great way to celebrate the women in your family!

The conversation you had with Bimini about gender identity was groundbreaking and it was one of the first conversations of its kind in the public arena. Following that

Unleashing THE DBS 770 Ultimate

Bentley Seeks Extraordinary Talent For Team

BENTLEY MOTORS today announced a recruitment drive creating 200 new roles as the luxury marque accelerates its forward-thinking Beyond100 strategy, the boldest plan of its kind in the sector.

Working across multiple disciplines to support delivery of the ambitious Five-in-Five plan, which commits Bentley to launching five new electric models by 2030, the growth will help redefine Bentley’s credentials as the benchmark manufacturer in sustainable luxury mobility.

Further information on the current vacancies can be found at www.bentleycareers.com with applications opening today. Whilst the positions cover multiple departments, approximately 50 per cent are focused on electrical competencies as Bentley aims for full electrification of its product range within seven years.

Long associated with cars of exquisite style and intoxicating performance, the DBS nameplate has been attached to some of Aston Martin’s finest flagships.

Since 2018 the DBS has stood at the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s series production range; a Twin-Turbo V12 powerhouse blessed with ferocious performance and unmatched style. With production of this current generation DBS nearing its end,

Aston Martin is proud to introduce a DBS to surpass all others; the DBS 770 Ultimate.

As its name suggests, the DBS

770 Ultimate is an emphatic last word. The most powerful production Aston Martin ever, and the fastest and most powerful DBS to date, extensive design and engineering enhancements ensure the DBS 770 Ultimate is an unforgettable and highly-collectible celebration of Aston Martin’s flagship Super GT. Available in both Coupe and

Volante form, DBS770 Ultimate will be built in strictly limited numbers – 300 Coupes and 199 Volantes – with all examples sold ahead of release.

DBS 770 Ultimate features a ferocious iteration of Aston Martin’s quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 engine. Now developing 770PS at 6500rpm and a colossal 900Nm of torque from just 1800rpm to 5000rpm, propelling DBS 770 Ultimate to a top speed of 211mph, this magnificent engine benefits

from modified air and ignition pathways together with a 7% increase in maximum turbo boost pressure. Precise tuning of power and torque curves gives the driver a sense of boundless performance, with an intoxicating blend of exceptional response, outstanding in-gear acceleration and the authentic V12 soundtrack.

Power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at

the rear of the car. In addition, DBS 770 Ultimate receives a unique transmission calibration to enhance shift speeds and driver interaction, contributing to a truly connected driving experience. Such is the inherent capability of Aston Martin’s Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB) system that the DBS 770 Ultimate uses the same 410mm x 38mm front discs and 360mm x 32mm rear as fitted to the DBS.

Although roles are based at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, the company has introduced hybrid working - a blend of onsite and remote working. Within brand new engineering offices, following multi-million pound investment, Bentley has added collaboration zones to promote interaction, and moved to hot desks or no individual offices, to both save space and encourage more impromptu discussion and greater teamwork.

Ferrari celebrates its 30th anniversary in China

Ferrari is celebrating its 30th anniversary in mainland China by unveiling a one-of-a-kind Tailor Made Ferrari Roma.

The new Roma draws inspiration from traditional Chinese aesthetics and craftsmanship through the many personalisation options offered by the Ferrari Tailor Made programme, and is a tribute to the brand’s milestones over the last thirty years.

The launch of the new Tailor Made Ferrari Roma marks not only three decades since the first Ferrari order was placed in Beijing in 1992, but also the start of the marque’s fourth decade in

China.

The one-of-a–kind Tailor Made Roma was designed by Ferrari in collaboration with the prominent Chinese designer Jiang Qiong’er through the Ferrari Tailor Made programme, which provides a unique customised experience featuring a diverse array of specification options and bespoke design solutions.

Clients are assisted by a team of Ferrari designers to create a model that reflects their individuality and taste, while upholding the aesthetic standards of the Ferrari brand.

Jiang Qiong’er, who has developed an international reputation,

Rate Of Growth In Electric Vehicle Ownership Falls

THE RATE OF GROWTH in electric vehicle ownership has fallen for the fourth consecutive quarter as the cost of living and higher electricity costs has taken its toll, according to official DoT data analysed by car leasing comparison website LeaseLoco.

The latest Department of Transport (DoT) and DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) electric vehicle registration figures published this week, reveal that private BEV (battery electric vehicle) registrations across the UK increased just 9.8% between Q2 2022 and Q3 2022. This compares to an 11.6% increase in EV registrations between Q1 2022 and Q2 2022, and a 15.5% increase between Q4 2021 and Q1 2022.

Looking at the comparable period in 2021, electric vehicle registrations increased by 18.8% between Q2 2021 and Q3 2021, almost twice the rate of growth (9.8%) seen between Q2 2022 and Q3 2022. The latest figures also reveal that despite London Mayor Sadiq Khan announcing earlier in the

No Charge For Home Charger

year that he was planning to expand the ULEZ zone, London has still seen the slowest uptake of electric vehicles of any UK region over the past 12 months.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison website LeaseLoco comments: “These latest figures from the DoT show the impact that the cost of living crisis is having on electric vehicle registrations. Although demand is there, and sales of electric cars are growing, the rate of growth has slowed noticeably as the higher cost of electricity means more car owners are likely making the decision to delay switching to electric.

“The Government has set itself ambitious “Road to Zero” targets and can’t afford a prolonged downward trend in the rate of EV uptake. The spanner in the works could be the end of the energy price guarantee in April 2023. This is hardly an incentive for car owners to switch to electric in the coming months, knowing that home charging costs could spiral.”

is much sought after for her work with its roots in the subtlety, beauty and heritage of Chinese culture. Her design vision and distinctive insights, together with her deep understanding of traditional Chinese culture, mirror the aspiration of Ferrari to craft a special Roma for commemorating the special occasion. Together, Ferrari and Qiong’er took inspiration from classic Chinese aesthetics and fused concepts and expertise to

achieve a synthesis of Italian design philosophy and Chinoiserie Chic.

This Tailor Made Roma embodies the fundamental art and design principles shared by both sides: a devotion to detail, a respect for heritage and tradition, and above all a commitment to exquisite craftsmanship that creates a design language of timeless elegance and simplicity.

MINI IS helping encourage emission free motoring by offering MINI Electric customers a complimentary home charger as part of their new vehicle purchase.

Available to all MINI Electric orders from 1 January to 31 March 2023 inclusive, the offer gives customers access to a complimentary Pod Point home charger and installation, for easier, more efficient charging at home.

After home installation by an expert, the home charger offers three times more efficient charging than a standard main plug and boosts the battery from

0-80% in just three hours.

Customers will also have access to the handy Pod Point App, allowing them to view their charging activity, track costs, view charging history and schedule charging for off-peak hours, when tariffs are typically cheaper.

The offer is valid for all MINI Electric orders placed by 31 March, and includes vehicles bought via Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and Personal Contract Hire (PCH). For those customers who already have a home charger, a £750 deposit contribution is offered.

5 British Asian comedians who are on the rise in 2023

British Asian comedians are making waves with their funny standup routines that mock South Asian stereotypes and situations.

From curries to sex to cheating finances, these comedians don’t hold back. Using accents, sound effects and comical movements, they command the stage and provide audiences with bellies full of laughter.

So, here are five top British Asian comedians to keep your eye on.

Preet Singh is a comedian, radio host and podcaster who has been

on a meteoric rise since emerging in 2018. He has quickly established himself as a formidable act, mainly through his success in Gong shows. His witty back and forth play out the event hilariously and recreates memories of South Asians in the audience. Away from comedy, Preet is the creator and host of Samosa Chats, a podcast dedicated to Desi individuals and tackling serious issues.

Tej Dhutia is one of the most promising British Asian comedians. The West Midlands-based comic’s bubbly personality and willingness to speak about women’s bodies, marriages and family life are brave but so humorous. She also has a knack for speaking about her sex life in the most candid way.

Leaving onlookers in hysterics, Tej is a unique personality within the comedy landscape.

Daman Bamrah is quickly becoming a household name amongst British Asian comedians, whose imaginative storytelling

and cultural writing provide raw, heartfelt and exciting shows to audiences.

His carefully crafted stand-ups have secured him top spots across the UK such as Angel Comedy Club and The Museum of Comedy. Daman is already making immense strides in the game.

Sukh Ojla is probably one of the most recognisable British Asian comedians within the industry. She’s had stints on Jonathon Ross’ Comedy Club as well as The Comedy Guide to Life on channel Dave. Her magical delivery, time stamps and break between jokes flow effortlessly.

Raul Kohli hails from Newcastle Upon Tyne and has had a great impact in representing this modern surge of British Asian comedians. His northern hometown serves as one of the focal points of his jokes, famously stating “a lot of people aren’t expecting this accent coming from this complexion”. His energy creates a buzzing atmosphere in every one of his stand-ups. Each stand-up is fuelled by each comic’s unique personality, and they all bring different aspects to their performances. From accents to hilarious interactions with the audience, if you’re looking for a laugh, check these British Asian comedians out.

11-Year-Old Piano Prodigy Described As “Mozart-Like”

AN 11-YEAR-OLD autistic boy has got the attention of the music - and wider - world, after he so quickly, and naturally, developed a talent that has been described as "Mozart-level."

Jude Kofie, from Colorado, in the USA, has an extraordinary music talent. He picked up piano playing without any tuition, and with a high competence, would freely hammer away at the keyboards, developing his cords, melodies, and solos.

When his father, Isaiah, heard sounds emerging from the basement of their family home - where they kept an old keyboard - he realised Jude was in his happily. He knew his son had a natural aptitude for the instrument, and how to play exceptionally well all by himself.

According to Isaac, none of his family, originally from Ghana –

which he though including Judeknew how to play the piano. Kofie described it as a miracle. ''It's a miracle,'' he said about his music skills.

When asked if he thought it was a miracle, he (Kofie) added: ''That's what I prefer''. Isaac soon purchased a larger keyboard for his son, and before long, the boy's skills were improving rapidly. He was able to pick up almost anything by ear.

On hearing about the extraordinary ability, inspired piano tuner Bill Magnusson offed a $15,000 grand piano, which would soon arrive at the Kofies' home, as well as, in addition, has offered to tune the piano once a month for as long as he was able to.

A benevolent Bill has also offered to pay for professional lessons to really advance Jude's skills.

The Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC) –Promoter of the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 –have confirm that legendary Grammy Award-winning recording artist, producer, and DJ, Afrojack, will perform at the third successive F1 grand Prix taking place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from 17th-19th March.

The concert will take place on the Main Stage of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, F1’s longest and fastest street circuit.

One of the world’s most sought-after artists, Afrojack continues to shatter boundaries that push music into bold new directions.

Since making his breakthrough with the multi-platinum selling single ‘Take Over Control’, the Dutch-born, genre-bending musician has lent his production skills to tracks including David Guetta’s number one smash ‘Titanium’ feat. Sia).

Known as a versatile producer and music artist who is able to move effortlessly across genres from electronic music to hip-hop and pop, he is as respected and known for his work producing tracks for other artists as much as he is known for his own music.

Just some of the tracks he has helped produce include Beyonce’s Run The World (Girls),

Afrojack To Light Up

The F1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 Weekend

Madonna’s Revolver with David Guetta and Ne-Yo and Pitbull’s Give Me Everything.

Afrojack won a Grammy for his 2011 remix of Madonna’s Revolver (David Guetta's One Love Club Remix) shared with David Guetta for the Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical. He’s been nominated a total of 4 times for remixing Collide with Leona Lewis; producing

Look at Me Now with Chris Brown and producing Give Me Everything with Ne-Yo, Pitbull and Nayer.

Most recently in 2022 he has collaborated with Guetta, Missy Elliott, Doechii, and Bia for the song "Trampoline." He also released "Worlds on Fire" with R3hab and Au/Ra and also announced his "Jack to the Future" US tour.

February Gig Listings

Afrojack joins a star-studded entertainment line up at the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 that also includes a live show by hip-hop superstar, Travis Scott, ensuring that fans will be treated to 3 whole days of world-class racing featuring the world’s greatest drivers as well as entertainment from the biggest names in music.

19-20 Craft, Hobby + Stitch

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

February 01-02 The Planets: CBSO and Kazuki Yamada (SH)

03 An Evening With Phil Rosenthal from Somebody Feed Phil

03 Belinda Carlisle: The Decades Tour 2023 with The Christians (SH)

04 David O’Doherty: whoa is me

05 Ex Cathedra 2022/23 Byrd's Great

06 B:Classical 2022/23: Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (SH)

07 Julian Siegel Jazz Orchestra Tales from the Jacquard (SH)

08 CBSO Rush Hour Concert (SH)

09 Transatlantic Sessions (SH)

10 Licence to Thrill: The Very Best of Bond with the CBSO (SH)

11 An Evening of Music and Dance with Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Royal Ballet Sinfonia (SH)

11 John Cale

13 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter

14 The Musical Box: Lamb Lies Down on Broadway (SH)

16 CBSO plays Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra (SH)

17 Daniel Sloss

18 Dream Theater (SH)

20 Lissie: Carving Canyons Tour 2023

22 CBSO plays Prokofiev & Sibelius (SH)

23 B:Classical 2022/23: Armenian State Symphony Orchestra (SH)

25 Lloyd Griffith: One Tonne of Fun

26 CBSO Youth Orchestra plays Berlioz (SH)

26 Asian Spring 2023

27 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter, Czech Mate: A programme of music by Czech composers

27 KT Tunstall (SH)

28 Barnardo’s National Choral Competition (SH)

l KT Tunstall graces the Symphony Hall Stage on the 27th

VIRTUAL TRY-ON ARRIVES IN FASHION STORES

Digital display experience platform, Raydiant, is now offering an exciting new virtual try-on solution to their fashion retail customers.

Virtual try-on is brought to stores by Zyler, fashion technology that allows customers to see themselves in any outfit without having to physically try them on. This means that retail spaces can be transformed, maximizing space and making use of the latest innovations in fashion. When

customers see themselves in items before purchase, they are more excited about the products, their confidence is boosted, and the brand becomes more inclusive.

Customers shop and buy more, and are less likely to return the products they purchase. Retailers who wish to introduce the technology to their customer experience can sign up directly from the Raydiant marketplace.

Raydiant is excited to offer this new virtual try-on offering in combination with their digital signage

solutions. The introduction of this type of technology will boost footfall, encourage customer engagement, and allow their clients to promote in style.

CEO of Zyler, Alexander Berend, comments: “We have partnered with Raydiant to help brands

Grammy-Winning Pointer Sister, Anita, Announced Dead

racial unrest in the US, became the album's breakout hit. And in 1975, their hit song, Fairytale, won a Grammy award for Best Country Vocal Performance. The win remains a rarity in a category dominated by white acts.

take control of their in-location experience. We have seen a massive impact with stylists helping their customers find perfect items with our virtual try-on solution, and now it’s easier than ever to get set up in-store”.

PEOPLE AROUND THE

world are still mourning the passing of Grammy-winning Pointer Sisters, Anita (Pointer), who died surrounded by her family at her home in Beverley Hills, in California. Her family said that they were deeply saddened by her passing.

"Heaven is a more loving beautiful place with Anita there," they said in a statement. The second oldest of the four sisters, Ms Pointer and her siblings rose to fame with hits including Jump (For My Love) and Fire. With a blend of funk, soul and R&B, the group released their eponymous debut album in 1973. Yes We Can Can, a funky tune which called for unity and tolerance at a time of

The group almost disbanded in 1979 after Bonnie Pointer left to pursue a solo career, but the remaining sisters regrouped and went on to shed their previously retro image for a modern pop sound. Throughout the 1980s, they remained a powerhouse in the US charts, and their hits, which included He's So Shy, Jump (For My Love) and Neutron Dance, have stood the test of time, remaining heavily streamed to this day. But Pointer's personal life was marked by tragedy. In 2003, her only child - Jada Pointerdied from cancer aged just 37. She went on to raise her granddaughter Roxie McKain Pointer. Her family said that they were comforted in knowing that she is now with her daughter Jada and her sisters June & Bonnie and at peace. She was 74.