Musicology Manifested
Born into a military family, Brandon-Nicole (above) grew up all over the world and learned to incorporate the cultural influences of the places she lived into her music. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
More drivers than ever are making $1,000+ auto loan payments
Atlanta’s Brandon-Nicole is taking the jazz scene by storm
BY ISAIAH SINGLETON
Atlanta is home to many different creatives and artists, including one who is a multi-instrumentalist fusion artist who combines various genres and influences to create a unique sound. Infusing trap, orchestral, hip hop, funk, jazz, trance, EDM, Samba, Calypso, and anything she can get her hands on, Brandon-Nicole has taken the jazz scene by storm. Her talents span across drums, bass, guitar, and saxophone.
Her genre of music takes inspiration from various artists such as John Coltrane, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Cardi B, Patrice Rushen, Shiela E, Christina Novelli, Prince, Bob and Damian Marley, Cypress Hill, and The Veronicas.
Music is My Lifestyle: Meet Brandon-Nicole
“Music is everything, music is vibration,” she said.
Born into a military family, Brandon-Nicole grew up all over the world and learned to incorporate the cultural influences of the places she lived into her music.
A true prodigy, Brandon-Nicole began playing piano at age four and was teaching music by fourteen. She said what started this musical passion for her was trying to master every instrument and play it to the best of the instrument’s ability.
“The instruments themselves and the students I teach how to play them, so I need to be my best for them, for them to be their best,” she said.
Brandon-Nicole said she started her first fusion song in the eighth grade and recorded it on Windows Video Player because she didn’t know much about production. She mixed a hip-hop beat with piano.
“I love to infuse piano and trap strings beautifully, so I made it,” she said.
Usually, when she records in the studio, Brandon-Nicole says she’s “always hyped up” and keeps it “mellow.”
“I’m always happy and try to be as creative as possible,” she said. “I may be in a mindset where the creativity simply flows.”
She also learned to associate musical keys with colors and often creates beats that relate to her moods and melodies that reflect her thoughts.
In 2023, Brandon-Nicole debuted two singles, “Beachside” and “Smokin,” which cultivated quite a following and success.
‘Beachside’ is a trap and jazz-influenced track about enjoying the beach all summer. Her second single, “Smokin,” encapsulates a soulful yet contemporary sound that reflects her unique musical journey. The song also soared to the top of the digital radio charts, climbing the top for 32 consecutive weeks.
“I wrote ‘Beachside’ a few years before releasing it, and this was a time when I was obsessed with going to the beach all summer,” she said. “I was at the beach with my mom, dad, and brother, and I could hear the song while looking at the scenery.”
She also said she was walking around the house singing it for a couple of weeks and began to put it all together.
Brandon-Nicole says that’s when she knew she needed help because she still couldn’t figure out the music production side, she then called Christopher Starr, the founder of Atlanta record label CSP Music Group, to figure it out.
Starr said when he looks at Brandon-Nicole as an artist, she’s passionate about what she does, sticks with it, and doesn’t waver on other things.
“A lot of artists start, and they tend to fall off track; however, Brandon-Nicole has stayed focused and was able to take direction and guidance,” Starr said. “She’s consistently innovating herself to stay present in the industry.”
‘Beachside’ hit the top 40 on the music chart alongside some
of her favorite artists. Brandon-Nicole said she refreshed the page at least ten times the day she found out because she didn’t think it was real.
“I was like, ‘That’s not real,’ but it was surreal to me, and everybody was so excited. I called my mom instantly, and she was excited. My mom called all seven of her sisters, and they called their families, it was phone tag all day, every day,” she said.
Nicole said the song is still on the charts, and since the last time she checked, it had moved to number 12. “I was really excited to see the staying power my art has,” she said.
Additionally, Brandon-Nicole said she recently wrote a song called “Love and Kindness. “ With everything going on in the world, Brandon-Nicole says people don’t know what’s right or what’s the truth anymore, and she wants to bring more positivity into the world.
“You’re watching the news, and everything is supposed to be valid, but sometimes it’s not and we can see the things we’re going through,” she said. “If we can just bring everything back
A true prodigy, Brandon-Nicole (above on the Atlanta Beltline) began playing piano at age four and was teaching music by fourteen. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
“Even if it makes others uncomfortable, I will love who I am.” — Janelle Monáe
Be Young, Gifted, and Vote
BY TRACY CHILES MCGHEE
“I speak with you on this occasion because you are young, gifted, and Black. I for one can think of no more dynamic combination a person might be…Look at the work that awaits you!”
Those inspirational words, spoken 60 years ago by acclaimed playwright Lorraine Hansberry still resonate today. The influence of Black youth expressing their brilliance and harnessing their power remains a catalyst for change, especially during the most consequential election of our lifetime.
For today’s young Black voters, grouped in the Generation Z and Millennial cohorts, civic engagement is more than a duty. They are anchored within a legacy of changemakers fighting for the freedoms that democracy professes to safeguard.
Nina Simone amplified her dear friend Hansberry’s message in 1969 when she introduced the song “To Be Young, Gifted, and Black.” This tune became an anthem of the civil rights movement and a torch for youth as they emerged into young adulthood.
We channel the spirt of Simone who once remarked, “There’s no excuse for the young people not knowing [their] heroes and heroines…”
We capture the reflections of three student activists who crystalize a vision for then, now and the ages.
Azsadee Peek
Azsadee Peek, 20, of Stamford, Connecticut, is a sophomore political science major at Howard University and founder of Campus Trailblazers. “To be young, gifted, and vote is to be civically engaged. It means always being aware of what’s happening around you, from your community to your college campus, and advocating for others who may not have a voice.”
Azsadee reminds us that the power of the vote extends beyond the individual; it’s about representing those who have been historically marginalized and ensuring their voices are heard.
The issues young Black voters care about reflect the urgency of our times. Reproductive rights, racial justice, gun violence, climate change and access to affordable healthcare are at the forefront of their concerns. Azsadee recalls the recent case of Marcellus Williams, a man wrongly convicted and executed this year.
“The case deeply impacted me,” she says. “It’s a reminder of why we need to mobilize our communities, register to vote, and drive collective action to create real change.” Stories like Williams’ highlight the intersection of racial injustice and the urgent need for systemic reform—issues she says young Black voters are determined to address through the ballot.
Lorraine Hansberry, award-winning playwright of the acclaimed Broadway play “A Raisin in the Sun,” herself was moved to action by a similar case decades earlier. The 21-year-old Hansberry
tell
was moved by the wrongful execution of Willie McGee, a Black man in Mississippi accused of raping a white woman in 1951. After covering the trial, she was inspired to write her poem “Lynchsong.”
In the spirit of Hansberry, today’s young activists continue to carry that torch, recognizing the power of voting as a tool to fight for the changes necessary to end racial inequities.
Rebbie Davis
For Rebbie Davis, 22, of Chicago, a graduating senior at Howard University and president of the Howard University’s Writers Guild, it’s making a foot print for those who follow. More than participating in democracy; it’s about shaping the future of Black communities.
“To be young, gifted, and vote means to understand the issues that are impacting your community, supporting legislation and policies that will help combat these issues, and voting for candidates that are just as passionate as you are about eradicating these issues out of your great cities and hometowns,” she says.
Rebbie’s passion for social justice is rooted in the belief that each vote has the power to transform lives. This election season, she will be motivated to vote on fair and equitable housing and reproductive rights, two issues that deeply affect her community.
Makayla Myers
Makayla Myers, 22, of Philadelphia, is vice pres-
and inspires
ident of the NAACP Pennsylvania State Conference. She is also president for Black Girls Vote at Community College of Philadelphia.
“To be young, gifted, and vote means more than just a phrase to me; it’s a movement,” says Myers. “Young people are realizing their power—we’re standing up, showing up, and using our voices to demand the future we deserve. Voting is our way of protesting at the polls.”
Myers, also a Howard University student, believes that young voters hold the potential to shift the political landscape, particularly on issues like public health, gun violence, and economic equality. “We’re also focused on securing access to good jobs and ensuring our education leads to better opportunities, so we aren’t living paycheck to paycheck but enjoying our lives as we deserve.”
The energy and passion of today’s young Black voters mirror the movements of the past, where Black youth were pivotal in demanding justice and equality.
Lorraine Hansberry’s words, spoken during the 1960s era of antiwar protest and Black rights movements, still ring true today, as young, gifted, and Black voices rise to meet the challenges of their time. Shaping the future, they have the potential to impact generations to come when they show up and demonstrate precisely what it means to be young, gifted and VOTE.
Tracy Chiles McGhee is a writer and constituency engagement advisor for Unerased | Black Women Speak.
THE ATLANTA
FOUNDED May 11, 1966 FOUNDER/EDITOR
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Immortalis Memoria
The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware.
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Three students
us how Lorraine Hansberry’s 1969 call to action still rings true —
them to get out the vote today. Kayla Sheriffe, 20, from Atlanta, is a first-time presidential voter in this year’s election.
SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING: Hate, Let It Go
BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON
The Atlanta Voice
While trying to remember where I heard or read about the concept of letting your hate for someone else control your life, I realized that maybe someone needed to read about it. So here it is. If you can’t stand someone, can’t get along with someone, and are still hurt after someone left you long ago, you really need to let it go. I guess it exemplifies a very practical approach to “Let go and let God.” The premise is simple enough. Without forgiveness in your heart, you are forever bound and chained to that which you despise most, are fearful of, and have been seriously hurt by. Have you ever been around someone who continues to relive a past relationship, a broken heart, wrongful termination, missed opportunity, or a personal slight over and over again? That’s all they talk about. When they see something or hear something that reminds
“Be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Romans 12:2
them of that someone or that thing, you know what’s coming. And they expect you to join them in the pity party they’ve thrown for themselves. In fact, it’s the same one they threw yesterday and the day before, and you know it’s the one they’ll throw tomorrow. Maybe you’ve attended a pity party or two, even thrown one for yourself. Without forgiveness in your heart and mind and your spirit, you’re essentially doomed to be shackled to what scarred you in the first place. My bible says the truth shall set you free. And the truth is you better let that madness go so you can live a life of freedom. You can never be the person God wants you to be if you continue to let these people, events, and circumstances have that kind
of power over you. That’s right, power! Whether you want to acknowledge it or not, you are letting your thoughts rule your behavior, your attitude, and your outlook. That’s too much power to give anyone or anything who is so negative to who you are in the eyes of God. It’s a mind game, and it’s your mind. Paul says, “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Romans 12:2. Let God reshape your thinking into what you can be instead of what they say, and you say you aren’t. The truth is God can’t or won’t even deal with you until you comply with the rule of forgiveness. He says, “If you come to the altar with your gift and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift and go be
reconciled with your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23.You got to let it go. You have to in order to claim your freedom, your peace. Until you do, you can’t receive all that God has for you. My point is that the process begins from within. It takes intestinal fortitude to forgive one's enemies in the face of their attacks, old and new. But you must. I know you can. Just remember this. When you let go and let God, “It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” He knows it’s in you because He put it there.
May God bless and keep you always.
This column is from James Washington’s Spiritually Speaking: Reflections for and from a New Christian. You can purchase this enlightening book on Amazon and start your journey toward spiritual enlightenment.
“YOUR VOICE”
What are your impressions of Presidential candidate Kamala Harris’s recent outreach to Black Men and Black People?
JONATHAN OLIVER South Fulton
"Unfortunately, it may be too late for her campaign. There are some things that I wouldn't be inclined to support, and some other things that the measures are not specific enough to meet the needs and wants of black men as a whole. She waited a long time to address what black men want and need. And I'm sure she's afraid to step on the grenade doing something that is going to benefit black people specifically. Although black people are in a specific and unique position financially in America, and that's probably what's most on people's minds is our finances and our families."
Smyrna
"It may be considered to be pandering, but isn't that a part of the political structure? She has to offer something to those seeking to vote for her. I believe that, based on her history in the criminal justice system, we need criminal justice reform for black men. I would consider that primary because she specializes in that particular industry. So, all in all, we are looking at the political system and process underway. We should not be shocked by her campaigning to black men. And, you know, we all can vote for whomever we believe in."
BRIAN
CHRISTIAN Mableton
"This whole thing about attacking Kamala for black men who don't have a good impression of her, I think, is nonsense. We're the flavor of the week right now. You'll be talking about something else next week. I think it's an insult for you to try to jump on top of Black men and change your mindset. I think Kamala is about as black as they come. And she has a solid base. I think that she would do a lot for this country."
TONY CADE Challenges Games and Comics, Tucker
"The outreach is a positive thing. One thing people don't get is that a president is not a king or queen. You may want to do something but still have to pass it through the House of Representatives and the Senate. So, anything that a politician offers you, you have to take it with a grain of salt. But I'm up for anything that will improve economic standpoints."
Compiled by Vincent Christie.
TIMOTHY HOOD
Election Central
‘You were born for such a time as this’
BY DONNELL SUGGS
STONECREST – New Birth Missionary Baptist Church , the largest land owner amongst Black churches in America, according to its Pastor Jamal Bryant, was jammed packed for Sunday service on the morning of October 20. Along with the weekly word, there was another message being sent, but not by a pastor. With only 16 days until Election Day, November 5, current United States Vice President and Democratic Party presidential nominee Kamala Harris was in the pulpit preaching the power of the vote.
“Black people are getting ready to elect the next President of the United States,” Bryant said.
This week can be defined as a make-orbreak week for the Harris-Walz campaign. The emphasis being the word “make” in this case. The Vice President made several appearances on a number of political talk shows and radio programs, including Fox News and iHeartRadio. Her appearance at church on Sunday, dressed in a white blouse and black skirt instead of her signature pant suits, made an impact on Black voters that may not be among the more than one million that voted during the first week of early voting.
As of Saturday night, more than 1.3 million Georgians voted early. Fulton County, the largest county in the state, has the most registered voters and most polling places, according to data provided by the Secretary of State’s Office.
More than 50 elected officials from around the state of Georgia attended Sunday service. The dignitaries included the mother of Juneteenth, Dr. Opal Lee. Ms. Lee, 98, traveled to Stonecrest from Texas to attend service, Harris’ Pastor Dr. Amos C. Brown from San Francisco, and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
Harris thanked Bryant for his work on encouraging voter registration around the country and said it was good to be at New Birth on Pink Sunday. Harris’ late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher and civil rights activist.
When she spoke she used the parable of the Good Samaritan to make a point about leading the country as the Good Samaritan treated the man beaten and bloodied on the road. "In this moment across our country, what we do see is someone trying to sow chaos,” Harris said without mentioning the name of her political opponent. “This is a moment that is challenging our faith. This is a moment that is challenging our fundamental faith. Faith is a verb. We show it in action and in our deeds and in our service.”
She made a point of mentioning how people in Georgia took care of each other in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Harris was in Augusta days after Helene devastated so many of the city’s neighborhoods.
“Let us look where we are and understand the Gospel of Luke. At this moment our country is at a crossroad. What kind of country do we want to live in?,” said Harris.
During Bryant’s sermon, he made a point of saying that men need to support women.
“It was a sister that raised you, it was a sister that taught you how to read. It takes a real man to support a woman.”
Bryant’s message to Harris: “You were born for such a time as this.”
98-year-old Lee got on her feet during the sermon. The message, at least for this day, was clear: Black Atlanta, Black Georgia is in full support of Harris.
Part two of her trip brought Harris to Divine Faith Ministries International, a megachurch on Tara Blvd. in Jonesboro.
Clayton County is one of the Georgia counties that saw a large turnout of early voters. As of Sunday morning, more than 29,400 Clayton County residents cast ballots, according to data from the Secretary of State's Office.
Georgia Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock, who benefited greatly from Clayton County voter turnout during his senatorial election and runoff with Republican candidate Herschel Walker, spoke briefly and encouraged congregants to get out and vote.
"When we vote, we win," he said.
Divine Faith Ministries, Intl. Bishop Donald E. Battle told Harris she was there for a reason and that it was time for a woman to lead this country.
Happy Birthday
R&B singing and songwriting legend Stevie Wonder came to Divine Faith in order to serenade Harris for her 60th birthday. The multi-time Grammy and American Music award winner sang, "Happy Birthday", to Harris and the capacity crowd sang along.
Stevie Wonder, a supporter of the Harris-Walz, performed during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
A day earlier Harris was in Atlanta hold -
ing a rally at the Lakewood Amphitheater where thousands of supporters heard her speak about why she would be the best choice for the country’s Commander-in-Chief. Along with Harris, R&B superstar Usher Raymond, Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, and Congresswoman Nikema Williams took the stage to reiterate Harris’ message.
“This election is about two very different visions of our country,” said Harris, who said the Harris-Walz campaign is about addressing the middle class, helping small businesses, and protecting reproductive freedoms.
Harris added that Trump is canceling interviews and “ducking debates.” She took a much more aggressive take on Trump’s rally performances, saying he couldn’t keep focus and “concepts of a plan” for this country.
“America is ready to chart a new way forward,” she said. “We are ready for a new and optimistic generation of leadership.” Before Usher hit the stage and had the crowd rocking, he became serious and told them that Georgia voters had work to do. “We have the power to change this moment in the present,” he said. “Let’s vote for the future, ladies and gentlemen.” Usher said he wants Kamala Harris to be the next President of the United States.
Harris arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Saturday afternoon. She returned to Georgia in the wake of a record-breaking turnout for early voters, particularly in some of the state’s larger counties such as
and
DeKalb, Cobb (over 83,000), Clayton,
Fulton County.
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (center) visited two metro Atlanta churches on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024. Both of the pastors at the church let her know that she was on a mission as the Democratic nominee for the presidency and that she was built for what was to come. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (left) and Stevie Wonder at Divine Faith Ministries, Intl. in Jonesboro, Georgia. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Senior
Pastor Jamal Bryant’s message to VP Kamala Harris: “You were born for such a time as this.” Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
“A Different Brunch” highlights HBCU's for Harris across the south
BY CARLA PEAY
GREENSBORO—The theme was “A Different Brunch,” a callback to the popular television show “A Different World,” which aired from 1987 to 1993 and showed many young people what life at an HBCU could be like—culture, community, and camaraderie—as well as a good education.
Held at the Doubletree Inn in Greensboro, the event began with a brunch and was followed by a panel of speakers who addressed issues affecting Black voters and the issue of engagement among young people.
The panel was hosted by Natalie Murdock, a state senator and a local political director of the Harris/Walz campaign. Her opening question to the panel was about the oft-discussed topic of young people and how to engage them in the political process, especially in an election so crucial to our future.
“We have to be as active and proactive as possible,” said state senator Gladys Robinson. She shared the story of her granddaughter, who dropped out of a PWI (Predominantly White Institution) to attend an HBCU, Bennett College in Greensboro, NC. “She told me ‘Now I understand what HBCUs do.’ They grab our students and let them know what they can be. They create leaders.” Robinson reminded the group of the importance of voting and working the polls if possible and that local elections, including the NC governor’s race, are just as critical as the
presidential race.
“We need to make sure that people are protected when they go to vote,” she said.
NC representative Amos Quick, a graduate of UNC Wilmington, said he wished he had attended an HBCU when he was young. Addressing the issue of whether or not black men are supporting Kamala Harris, Quick said there is a lot of disinformation being spread.
“I don’t know why it’s out there that 20 percent of black men are supporting Trump,” Quick said. “They are not in the barber shops I go to. People need to understand that when we vote for Harris, we are not just voting for a person. We are voting for a set of ideals.” He added that we should not be afraid to advocate for a black agenda.
“We need diversity, not just in skin color, but in thought of mind,” Quick said. “My kids have lived through a global pandemic, 911, and feeling like a school building isn’t safe. They know how important the right leadership is because they have seen what happens when you pick the wrong leadership.”
Veleria Levy, Executive director of the NC AIDS Action Network, talked about the importance of “othering.”
“A lot of Republicans are still othering people they believe are not like them – particularly the LGBTQ+ community,” Levy said. “Before that, they were othering black people, and they still are.” She spoke of her college-age son and how
VOTE,
proud she is of his desire to serve.
“We need to let our young people know what they can get out of this election,” Levy said. “Our young people don’t watch the news; they get their news from social media and their friends. But they are smart. We need to ask them what is important to them.”
North Carolina Court of Appeals judge Carolyn Thompson relayed a story of how the Biden/ Harris administration forgave her student loans and to reach young people by telling them stories that matter to them. She also gave a warning about believing in poll numbers.
“When I see a poll in my email, I delete it,” she said. “We are the polls. If people vote, we can move these poll numbers. That’s why it’s so important to get engaged in this election. Representation matters.”
NCAA Alum Joi Bass stressed the importance of meeting young people where they are.
“We have to make sure our voices are heard. Kamala Harris isn’t just talking about equality, but equity.”
Radio and television host Claudia Jordan was billed as the special guest of the event. She once worked with Donald Trump when she hosted the Miss Universe pageant in 2009 and said she had watched his transformation up close. Her advice to the group was not to get frustrated.
“I just use the platform I have and try to celebrate these young people. I was happy to see the engagement of the young people in this elec-
tion,” Jordan said. She is currently working on a show she says is designed to make politics more fun. She also relayed a story about the importance of choice and the perils of having choice taken away. “Young girls today have less rights than their mothers. Choice is not a woman’s issue, and it’s a life issue.”
Seated at a table in the back of the room were two long-time political activists and HBCU grads. They were enjoying the brunch and the speakers’ messages. They both joked that they were tired and ready for the young people to take over the fight.
Guilford County resident Roslyn Smith-McLean, 85, a graduate of Bennett College, says she has lived to see some unusual political events.
“This is the time for our young people to take over the fight, and I would like to see them show out and show up,” said Smith-McLean. “Seeing the number of young people here today really makes your heart swell. I'm going to be doing my part as long as I live.”
Ernestine “Tina” Taylor, a graduate of Texas Southern in her 70s, has been a North Carolina resident for 25 years. Asked why this election is so important, Taylor said, “I do not want my grandchildren returned to slavery. I never focused on a party; I focus on character. There is no way Trump should have been president the first time, let alone be re-elected. If you want to talk about character and brilliance and experience, that is all wrapped up in Kamala.”
Photo Credit: National Archives (Top)
Entertainment One Music Fest Do’s and Don’ts
BY LAURA NWOGU
One Music Fest, the Southeast's largest two-day, urban progressive music festival, is here with a lineup of the music industry’s biggest acts and icons.
From Earth Wind & Fire and Jill Scott to Cardi B and Gunna, the festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience this weekend as it marks its 15th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27, at Central Park.
Anisa Breneé, the official correspondent for OMF, said this year’s festival feels monumental.
“One Musicfest has literally changed the way that culture and music looks in Atlanta over the last 15 years. So, this year, we're celebrating all that One Musicfest has done and all that have come together, just for the love of music, for the love of culture.”
Music festivals are packed with a lot of fun, but they can also get hectic if you’re not prepared for a long day of walking from stage
to stage or equipped with the right information to maximize your enjoyment. Whether it’s your first OMF or your 15th, Breneé has a list of Dos and Don’ts for the biggest event this weekend.
Dos:
Do dress comfortably
“Find your your favorite pair of festival shoes, sneakers preferably, and get ready to get your steps in.
“I will also say bring a jacket. I think we spend so much time getting our outfits together that we forget that throughout the day, especially here in Atlanta, we experience so many different seasons in one day.”
Do show up early
“Figure out where the entry is, find your spaces, navigate the lay of the land so that you can plan out the day.”
Do buy a locker
“One-day lockers are $25. Two-day lockers or $50. Each locker comes with a charger inside, so that's kind of the point that we're pushing; everyone's phone always dies. So preorder
your locker just to make sure that you have everything that you need, or if you buy merch, at least you have a place to store it.”
Do plan out who you want to see
Do use rideshare
Do make sure you have your OMF wristband
“If your wristbands didn't arrive before you show up to the festival, check your mailbox one more time. Check your email, but the box office opens Friday at 11 a.m.”
Don’ts:
Don’t bring outside food and don’t bring cash
“We have everything covered and the whole festival is cashless. So, bring that card so that you can buy some of this One Musicfest merch. Get that hoodie. Do all the things because we sell out every year.”
Don’t bring mace, selfie sticks, professional/external cameras outside of your phone
Don’t put “Central Park” in your GPS
“The entrance address is 395 Piedmont Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30308. If you put Central Park in, it'll drop you far away from the entry, and the last thing we want is for anybody to add more steps to their journey because we’ve got a lot of park to see.”
Don’t not come
“Show up. Have a good time.”
One Music Fest, the Southeast’s largest twoday, urban progressive music festival, is back at Central Park with a lineup of the music industry’s biggest acts and icons. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Continued from page 2
to love and kindness, that could change any and everything, from the lies you tell on the news to the lies you tell your friends or family.
Brandon-Nicole says she’s been listening to a lot of Nicki Minaj and oldies lately.
“I love that girl, she’s really good,” she said. “I’ve also been picking up on Warren G and Frankie Beverly.”
Additionally, she said that Rihanna is her role model throughout her musical journey thus far.
“It must be Rihanna because I remember being in middle school when she first came out with her first hit, ‘Pon De Replay,’ and now she’s a billionaire. I’m trying to blow up like that, and she doesn’t let anybody talk her down out of what she’s trying to do,” she said.
Teaching & beyond
Beyond her music, Brandon-Nicole is committed to teaching humanitarian efforts and is pursuing a PhD in Educational Leadership.
Brandon-Nicole says what inspired her to start teaching and showing people how to play instruments is that “they need adults like us.”
“Kids, like how I was growing up, need adults like us. They don't always have that direction, and they may have the dreams, but they don't have the drive or don't have the parents who know how to get them there, and
they often just fall by the wayside,” she said. Brandon-Nicole talked about a student who almost didn’t graduate due to being involved in the “wrong side” of the Black Lives Matter movement. Brandon-Nicole says the private school she was teaching at wasn’t supportive.
“He told me he ‘couldn’t do it,’ and being a black man, it was beginning to be a lot for him, but I told him we’re going to get through it, so I became organized as well,” she said. “I
learned how to read music, got my bachelor’s and master’s, and wrote curriculum for atrisk students just like him.”
She’s working on her PhD and will finish in the Summer of 2025, so she can take over the school district and help students like him.
Brandon-Nicole says her goal is to ensure the future is moving in a “good direction” and ensure the next generations can read and write.
“I want to make sure they can get to where they need to go, even with adult education. I want to try to get the homeless off the streets, into jobs, and building communities,” she said. “It’s hard to pick up those pieces, so I had this thing called the Brandon-Nicole Education Foundation, and I’m trying to get that off the ground as well.”
The Brandon Nicole Education Foundation would help kids get backpack drives and other secondary programs for people looking for jobs or without a GED.
Her musical goals for the rest of the year are to finish at least one of her albums and, next year, begin exploring more bookings, not just in Atlanta but across the U.S.
“Playing is where my heart is, and I want to get back out there with people,” she said.
Brandon-Nicole advises other creatives who may struggle with confidence to do it without confidence.
“You’re going to feel dumb at first, you’re going to feel stupid and make mistakes, but you must show up in order to blow up,” she
said. “The more often you do it, the better you get at it. I felt stupid trying to put an album together to get on music charts.”
She also said her father told her, ‘Girl, this isn’t even it,’ on Nicole pursuing a music career, and now she has two songs on the charts.
“We’re moving forward, and you have to keep moving,” she said. “Don’t give up on yourself, and don’t let anybody else tell you to give up on yourself, and you don’t need to waste so much time convincing others your path is your path.”
Furthermore, Brandon-Nicole said fans should look forward to more vocals and a couple of spoken word pieces.
“We’re also looking at tours, concerts, and changing the world,” she said.
Brandon-Nicole also said she wants to reconnect with people and shouts out a friend, Federico Foster, who passed away during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. She said the pandemic affected her playing and even teaching because it would be difficult to have students play instruments if they had to blow through it.
“There was nothing we could really do, even teaching was a nightmare. [Federico] was a band director in Savannah, and he was trying to keep his band program alive, he would hold after-school practices, and he would wear a mask, but there was only so much you could do. I must give him his props because he died for music, and I thought it was beautiful,” she said.
In 2023, Brandon-Nicole debuted two singles, “Beachside” and “Smokin.” Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Judge throws out seven State Election Board rules
Hats All Folks: Fruition Hat Co.
BY ALEX CATES
Atlanta is a city filled with style and creativity and is known for being unapologetically unique.
Fruition Hat Co. perfectly captures the essence of the city of Atlanta with its unique spins on hats, whether it be a stylish custom fedora or a customized trucker hat. This store highlights an amazing range of high fashion to streetwear and is the best place to get the perfect accessory for any outfit. Along with the flagship location in Atlanta, the company sells stylish hats on the Saks Fifth website.
Upstairs in Ponce City Market, inside Citizen Supply, is Fruition Hat Co.’s hat bar. There, customers can walk up, sit down, and talk with a hatter to make a custom hat that fits perfectly every time. Using only the highest quality supplies, Fruition Hat Co. puts unique spins on every hat they work on to make your hat best suit your style. Fruition Hat Co. was created when Stanzel Jackson and his childhood friend, Bryan Chatman, couldn’t find hats that matched their style.
The company began in Jackson’s apartment in 2018 and eventually gained popularity with its pop-up shops throughout Atlanta. Both owners credit the city of Atlanta with playing a major role in their company’s growth and creation. When asked about the importance of being a black business owner in Atlanta, Chatman said, “Being a Blackowned business in Atlanta means everything, just to be a part of that, being a part of the history.”
Each hat has a unique flair that highlights the creativity of the designers at Fruition Hat Co. When asked about the inspirations behind the hats, Jackson said, “The inspiration behind the hats is honestly the people. Our motto is be you, be true. It’s all about expressing individuality through your different hat styles.”
With its flagship location located in Ponce
City Market,
up and watch a hat get made in front of them, as well as discuss with the hatter what accessories would best suit the hat for their style.
customers can walk
ABOVE: Fruition Hat Co. was created when Stanzel Jackson and his childhood friend, Bryan Chatman couldn’t find hats that matched their style. Photo by Edward Cates/The Atlanta Voice
RIGHT: Interior shot of Fruition Hat Co., which is located upstairs in Ponce City Market inside of Citizen Supply. Photo by Edward Cates/The Atlanta Voice
Photo by Edward Cates/The Atlanta Voice
NBCDI hosts “Creative Gathering” at ZuCot Gallery
BY NOAH WASHINGTON
“These words have impact, they can make and change anything," said Thomas Anthony Waller, Board Chair Emeritus of the National Black Child Development Institute (NCBDI), when addressing a room full of donors, poets, writers, and activists at the 2024 "Creative Gathering." Held on October 17, 2024, at the ZuCot Gallery in Atlanta, Georgia, the event brought together a community dedicated to improving the quality of life for Black children and families through literature. The annual gathering, hosted by NCBDI, featured a keynote speech delivered by renowned poet and author Kwame Alexander, whose personal story highlighted the themes of legacy, creativity, and empowerment.
Recalling his father, Dr. E. Curtis Alexander, ‘s role in co-founding NCBDI in 1970, Alexander expressed the significance of speaking at an event tied so closely to his family’s history. “This is full circle for me,” Alexander remarked. He fondly remembered how his father pushed him to aim high and never settle for less, sharing his father’s words: “Nobody lowers my son’s goals. He doesn’t know he can’t make it,” Alexander said.
In an exclusive conversation with The Atlanta Voice, Alexander shared a message he would give to his younger self, a boy growing
Community
up with aspirations, which would be realized, “Remember that you are the greatest, not because you are better than anyone, but because no one is better than you,” said Alexander. In addition to the keynote, the evening featured performances that honored Black creativity. Poet Ariana Francesca performed for the audience with her spoken word performance of “Black Abundance.” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also contributed to the evening with pre-recorded remarks, adding his voice to support NCBDI’s mission.
Attendees of the gathering were given a special “Toy Box” containing children's books by Black authors. Titles included “How to Write a Poem” by Kwame Alexander, “Leaves to My Knees” by Ellen Mayer, and “Born Driven” by Wendell Scott. The box also included a puzzle.
Dr. Leah Austin, CEO and President of NCBDI, took the stage to address the ongoing societal challenges impacting the organization’s mission. In light of the 2024 election and the growing wave of book bans across the nation, Dr. Austin emphasized the critical role NCBDI continues to play in advocating for Black children. "The National Black Child Development Institute has been around for 54 years, and unfortunately, many of the issues we were originally trying to dismantle persist," said Dr. Austin to The Atlanta Voice, "Book bans targeting Black and Brown literature are not just attacks on books; they are attacks on identity. It’s a diminishing of people. It’s a dehumanization,” Dr. Austin continued.
As book bans and efforts to silence Black voices escalate, NCBDI remains steadfast in its commitment to advocacy, organizing, and movement-building, cited Austin, "We’re not just a direct service organization," she explained. "We’re about advocating, organizing, and movement building. This fight will continue, regardless of who is in the White House."
Kwame Alexander, too, addressed the recent
efforts to restrict access to Black literature. In his message to parents and educators, he urged them to empower children by allowing them to freely explore the world of books. "Books are amusement parks, and kids ought to be able to choose the rides," said Alexander. "Let your child choose the book they want to read. Teachers should let their students choose the books. It’s not enough to get kids to read; let’s get them to want to read."
During the evening, Allyson Smith, Event Host and Vice President of Community Mobilization at NCBDI gave a “call to action,” urging the audience to use their creativity to shift narratives for Black children. "Whether it’s your music, your spoken word, your visual arts—whatever creative expression the divine has given you—we are using that to shift narratives about Black children," Smith said. "Drawing from the wisdom we learn from our ancestors, we know that changing the narrative can indeed create change in the world."
Smith spoke to the core values of NCBDI, particularly the concept of Afrofuturism—a reimagining of a future where Black identity, agency, and freedom thrive. "Afrofuturism is a movement that envisions a liberated future for Black communities," said Smith. "Through the stories we tell, the myths we break, and the new visions we create, we honor this legacy with our creativity and our commitment to justice."
Village Skate Park ATL: unique blend of skate culture and community development
BY LENTHEUS CHANEY
Village Skate Park ATL, founded in 2021, was birthed from the community-driven endeavor of Takarai Aart. As a seasoned BMX rider, Takarai saw a unique opportunity to integrate action sports into the fabric of his local community, although the indoor facility lacked the street visibility he desired.
From the age of 13, Takarai found his second home in skate parks, which sparked his dream of creating a similar space for others. Leveraging his background in construction and his earnings from various projects, he invested everything he had into building Village Skate Park ATL.
“[Skate parks] kind of changed the trajectory of my life. I learned that you can make money from it, and I pursued it as a career for a while,” Takarai said. “When I moved to Atlanta, I started working with development groups, and that turned into the opportunity to have a building.”
Velnice Aart, Takarai’s wife, played a significant role in the evolution of the skate park. Initially unfamiliar with skateboarding culture, she embraced it alongside the birth of their son, Life, who
was skateboarding even before he could walk.
“I didn't know anything about skate parks and bikes,” Velnice said. “I did start skating before this, but I didn't really come into the culture of skate parks until Life was born.”
What began as an abandoned 17,000-squarefoot warehouse filled with junk has transformed into a vibrant community hub. Supported by Takarai’s team, family, and the skate community, Village Skate Park ATL has become a center for community development.
"I think that we stand out in terms of the sense of community that we bring and the sense of care. Often, skate parks are public parks where there's not usually someone there who cares,” Velnice said. “But we like to be inclusive and sort of reach out and help those that we see needing help."
One of the hallmarks of Village Skate Park ATL is its dedication to inclusivity. People from various ethnicities, ages, and skill levels visit the facility. This inclusivity extends to people who speak Spanish, those who use sign language to communicate, and even people with disabilities.
“The most typical things that we see are skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, roller skates, and then bicycles,” Velnice said. “Some of the most unique things that we've seen include people in wheelchairs.”
Strategic partnerships and community support have recently enhanced street visibility, which is paramount to the success of Village Skate Park ATL. A collaboration with the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) provided valuable resources to design, fabricate, and install the once non-existent street signage.
The ARC’s Culture and Community Design program emphasizes working with local governments, artists, and community members to co-design and implement community-driven projects. This partnership not only helped with the new signage and visibility but also reinforced the park’s role as a cultural and recreational asset in the community.
According to Samyukth Shenbaga, Managing Director of the Community Development Department at ARC, they are focused on longrange planning to create healthy, thriving com-
munities and believe that leveraging the arts and culture is essential in achieving this within the city’s expanding new construction sites.
“Atlanta is a growing metro, and we're seeing a lot of great development that's happening in our region,” Shenbaga said. “We want to make sure that what's happening with assets like Atlanta Skate Park isn't just repeating development concepts that do not take into consideration the ethos of a place like this, which has arts and culture at its center for redevelopment and reimagining.”
Despite its successes, Village Skate Park ATL faces challenges, particularly concerning the security of its location amidst growing urban development. The skate park’s proximity to the developing Beltline poses concerns about its future.
However, Roshani Thakore of ARC and the skate park’s leaders remain proactive in addressing these issues by asserting their presence as a valuable community asset. Thakore said she wants to make sure that local planning processes authentically engage with the communities they affect.
Kwane Alexander (left) with Dr. Leah Johnson, President & CEO of NBCDI. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
US government considers a breakup
of Google
Kaiser Permanente and Atlanta Hawks make a healthy pair
BY NOAH WASHINGTON
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, healthcare agency Kaiser Permanente Georgia launched its partnership with the Atlanta Hawks, becoming the NBA team’s official health plan provider.
This collaboration announced at the Decatur Family YMCA, is focused on promoting physical fitness, mental health, and healthy eating among Atlanta's residents. With a strong emphasis on health equity, the partnership aims to make wellness more accessible to underserved communities throughout Georgia.
Pam Shipley, Regional President of Kaiser Permanente Georgia, explained that this collaboration has been over a year in the making. "We've been working on this partnership for over a year now," Shipley noted, emphasizing the alignment of Kaiser Permanente’s mission with that of the Hawks, stating that both organizations are deeply committed to promoting active and healthy lifestyles. “We knew that it was the right combination to really get with the Hawks, and their mission and our mission are completely aligned,” Shipley said.
Kristin McEwen, the Chief Experience Officer at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, also spoke to the partnership's potential to make a lasting impact, highlighting the educational component of the initiative, which is designed to teach children about the importance of physical and mental health. "Kaiser has supported us in ensuring that we're building healthier and equitable communities," said McEwen, adding that this collaboration will help kids and their families understand that health and wellness are accessible to everyone. “It's not just about having access to a gym or knowing how to swim or being the best soccer player,” McEwen explained, “It’s about taking care of who you are, and you’re the most important person in your life,” continued McEwen.
“We’re just so excited to get into the neighborhoods and bring these programs directly to the little kids that need it, the big kids that need it, and the adults,” Shipley explained. The goal is to make health education and wellness programs available to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, while ensuring these initiatives are engaging and fun. Events will feature interactive mascots like Harry the Hawk, Doc Broc, and Nurse Blueberry, helping make health and wellness relatable for children.
Shipley noted, "We're excited to embark on this partnership because we've designed wellness programs that will be in the arena, but they'll also be in the communities.” The kickoff event at the Decatur Family YMCA, which included distributing fresh fruits and vegetables to underserved families, addressed health and food insecurity. 250 Bags
were made available, with each bag having five servings.
Andrew Saltzman, President of Business Enterprise and Chief Commercial Officer for the Atlanta Hawks, reflected on the broader community impact the partnership will have. "We share a belief in uplifting the Atlanta community, and we are looking forward to partnering and developing meaningful platforms that inspire and promote a healthier lifestyle,” he said. The Hawks, committed to their role as a civic asset, cited Saltzman, are focused on creating meaningful change through this collaboration, “ It comes down to just two words, which is a civic asset. We believe, from ownership on down, that the Atlanta Hawks are a civic asset that manifests itself in many different ways. Community Health is one. Financial inclusion and financial equity are another. Food Insecurity is another,” Saltzman said, “There are so many different platforms and causes that we care deeply about, and what's really wonderful is how a sports team can help change for the better the communities that it serves,” continued Saltzman.
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, healthcare agency Kaiser Permanente Georgia, launched its partnership with the Atlanta Hawks, becoming the NBA team’s official health plan provider. Photos by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
Sports
How Hurricanes Hit Black Students Harder
Falcons look to stay undefeated in division in Tampa
BY DONNELL SUGGS
The Atlanta Falcons’ three-game win streak may have ended at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday following a 34-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, but all is not lost. The Falcons (4-3 overall, 3-0 in division) remain undefeated in the NFC South and have an opportunity on the road this Sunday to define their season.
Atlanta will be in Tampa on Sunday, with a chance to sweep the rival Buccaneers and solidify the top spot in the NFC, virtually for good. A 4-0 record in the division would put the Falcons in the best position to make the playoffs for the first time in five seasons. That advantageous positioning comes courtesy of defeating Tampa 36-30 on Thursday, Oct. 3. A sweep of the Bucs will leave Atlanta with just two remaining division games in New Orleans (on Sunday, Nov. 10) and at home against Carolina on week 18 in early January. A win in Tampa this weekend can make those games against the Saints and Panthers a lot less important. New Or-
leans is currently 2-5 overall and the Panthers are a leagueworst 1-6 overall, neither team looks like they will rebound to win enough games to keep a NFC South division title for Atlanta from being enough to secure a playoff spot. Atlanta has wins over New Orleans (26-24 on Sept. 29) and Carolina (38-20 on Oct. 13), so the best-case scenario for the Saints and Panthers would be to play spoiler.
Tampa’s 41-31 loss to Baltimore on Monday night makes this week’s game against the Falcons more crucial for both teams now that they are both 4-3 overall.
Against Seattle, Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins had one of his worst games of the season with a pair of interceptions to go with just 232 yards and a touchdown. On the brighter side, tight end Kyle Pitts had his best game of the season with seven receptions for 65 yards.
This weekend in Tampa would be a great time for Cousins, Pitts, and the rest of the Falcons to have their best game of the season so they can move closer to the ultimate goal: the playoffs.
REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL
Principal Product Owner w/ Greensky Management Company LLC in Atlanta, Georgia. Reports to Atlanta, GA office. May work fully remote from any U.S. loc. Perform syst analysis & testing to define project req’mnts. Utilize agile framework to elicit req’mnts, docs project user stories, & create project acceptance criteria. Master’s deg (U.S. or foreign equiv) in Comp Sci, IT, or rel. field & 2 yrs of exp in job offered or in Programmer or Systs Analyst role OR Bach deg (U.S. or foreign equiv) in Comp Sci, IT, or rel. field & 5 yrs of exp in job offered or in Programmer or Systs Analyst role. Certified Scrum Product Owner lic. req’d. Domestic trvl req’d 10% of time. Job Code: 8291969. QUALIFIED APPLICANTS: Apply at greensky.com. Select “About” tab & click on “Careers.” NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. ©GreenSky LLC, 2024. All rights reserved. GreenSky is an equal opportunity employer & will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
SENIORS
(62+)
REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL
SUMMECH Community Development Corporation, Inc. ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSAL Project For Bid
Sealed proposals for Washington Street Multi-Family Apartments in Peoplestown Community, SW Atlanta, GA 30315 property rehabilitation will be accepted by SUMMECH, 633 Pryor Street, SW, Atlanta, GA 30312 on Monday, November 4, 2024. All proposals submitted must be sealed and received no later than 12:00 pm. local (Eastern) time on the stated date.
Scope of Work: The purpose of this Request for Proposal is to select vendor who can provide Design-Build Services for interior and exterior repairs of occupied multi-family apartments. This project will require all construction, plumbing, electrical, quality control, etc. The successful bidder will be responsible for providing all labor, materials, tools, equipment and incidentals and completing all work required in the Scope of Work and Specifications. Rehabilitation of 10 Multi-Family Apartments Fee: N/A
Term of Contract:
Site Visit: Scheduled As Needed, Contact Project Manager
If you have any questions regarding this project please contact Felicia Hicks, Project Manager, at Email:fhicks@summechcdc.org
SUMMECH reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and the to waive technicalities.
File No. 2024-183
Surrogate’s Court
State of New York - County of Schenectady
Supplemental Citation
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK By the Grace of God Free and Independent.
TO: Prince Jackson, 1107 Sumner Avenue, Sch’dy, NY, 12309
Reese Jackson, 1107 Sumner Avenue, Sch’dy, NY 12309
Lakeia Bowman, 1912 Kensington Court, Niskayuna, NY, 12309
Barbara Jackson, as Administratrix of the Estate of Darryl T. Jackson, 309 Chiswell Rd, Sch’dy, NY, 12304
Light’s Funeral Home (Scott & Barbieri), 1428 State St., Sch’dy, NY, 12304
Karyn Kaiya Dowtin, whereabouts unknown, last known address 1230 Peachtree St., NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309
Nicole Netterford, whereabouts unknown, last known address 4321 Ritter Rd., Walterboro, SC, 29488
Marlena Jackson, whereabouts unknown, last known address 4967 Darien Lake, Liverpool, NY, 13088
Carlos Jackson, Jr., whereabouts unknown, last known address 1687 VanVranken Ave., Sch’dy, NY, 12308
Devon King, whereabouts unknown, last known address 1237 Duben Ave., Anchorage, AK 99504
Unknown heirs at law, next of kin and distributees of Joseph David Jackson, deceased, if living and if any of them be dead, to their heirs at law, next of kin and distributees whose names and places of residence are unknown and especially to the unknown heirs at law, next of kin and administrators,
assignees and successors in interest whose names are unknown and cannot be ascertained after due diligence. Angela R. Tylock, Esq, as Guardian ad Litem, 10 Utica Avenue, Latham, NY, 12110
NYS Attorney General, the Capitol, Albany, NY, 12224
A Petition having been duly filed by Patricia D. Langston, who is domiciled at 21 Morrison Crossing, Dallas, GA, 30157
YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Schenectady County, at Schenectady, New York on November 20, 2024 at 10 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the Estate of Joseph David Jackson, lately domiciled at 810 Hampton Avenue, Schenectady, NY, 12309 in the County of Schenectady, New York, granting Letters of Administration upon the estate of the decedent to Patricia D. Langston or to such other person as may be entitled there to.
(State any further relief requested)
Dated, Attested and Sealed: September 17, 2024 Honorable Vincent W. Versaci, Surrogate
/s/ Laurie L Casey
Laurie L. Casey, Deputy Chief Clerk
Attorney for Petitioner: Litz and Litz, Esqs, Kenneth P. Litz, Esq. Telephone: 518-372-3329
Address of Attorney: 143 Clinton Street, Schenectady,
The Atlanta Falcons lost at home to Seattle 34-14 on Sunday (above) but remain in the driver’s seat in the NFC South at 3-0. Next up: Tampa. Photo by One Circle Entertainment/ The Atlanta Voice
Together, these 10 HBCU students drive the summer internship of a lifetime with Black-owned newspapers
Imani Waters Howard University
Fellow
Mattie Moore North Carolina
Harrison Buck Morehouse College
Young-Rolle
Kayla Hare North Carolina A&T University
Amyah Fountain Clark Atlanta
Erinn Gardner Spelman College
Joseph Tilaye Alabama A&M