Summer 2014

Issue Number 16

xposure365.com

Its the 30th anniversary for Purple Rain, we give 10 little known facts on pg. 8

First Look at MAC’s Simpsons Collection on pg. 10

2014 BMW i8 pg. 42

Charlie Wilson electrifies the crowd at Essence Fest. Coverage on pg. 32

Armani

Favorite looks from the 2014 Fall Couture shows in Paris on pg. 19

Credits &Contributors

Cover Photo Credit: Maya Washington

Credits:

Copyright

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily the views of Xposure Magazine. We welcome and accept unsolicited materials. Materials submitted to Xposure Magazine is the person’s guarantee that submitted items are not in violation of or infringing upon the rights of others and that said materials may be reviewed and subject to critique without any third party consent.

Photo

Cameron Foster/

Chris Mitchell, Desirae Allen, Etta East

It’s been quite a Summer so far, I hope you have been enjoying yours. Summer 2014 has been full of surprises. This issue is dedicated to everyone with the desire to be better in all aspects of their lives. I’m happy to announce my partnership with Magzter which is the official distributor of Xposure Magazine. Xposure now reaches 160 countries and can be translated into 20 languages. I’m excited to reach you where you are in your language. As we continue to grow, I hope to feature more things that celebrate where you are and all of the great things happening in your countries.

I’m always a little nervous when putting together issues for you to enjoy, I always hope you will love the final result. In this rare instance, I’m totally in love with this issue. The cover is a prime reason why. What can you say about Prince that hasn’t already been said? I was truly honored to be granted press access to the 20th Essence Music Festival where Prince was the headliner. If you ever have the chance to see Prince in concert, treat yourself to a truly unique experience. The set that Prince performed was a one time only set which included almost all of his music from the last 30 + years. Prince even sprinkled in some classics from Sheilla E, Morris Day and The Time, Janet Jackson and even Michael Jackson. There had been lots of speculation about what Prince would perform. He started the night saying “Dearly beloved, 30 years ago there was Purple Rain” and started performing Let’s Go Crazy we all lost truly lost our minds. We knew then, it was going to be a legendary, historic night. Prince went on to perform for almost two hours when he abruptly left the stage. The Superdome went black as we all chanted Purple Rain repeatedly. The Superdome turned purple and Prince gave us a 10 minute performance of the legendary song. The remainder of Essence Fest was filled with lots of soulful performances from Mary J. Blige, Charlie Wilson and more. Full coverage of Essence Fest is included in this issue. There’s also a tribute celebrating the 30th anniversary of Purple Rain as well.

Also in this issue are features and recaps on Miami Fashion Week, Fall 2014 movies and fashion. There are 2 phenomenal artists featured in Next on Deck Miss Candy Soul and Ransom Razina. There are also features with Eric Smith who has overcome a lot of adversity to reach his success. Also Kevin Holly who has taken Instagram by storm with his startup Upscale Luxury.

There are plenty of other dynamic things included in this issue like the 2014 Maserati Ghibli and the new specs for Bentley’s SUV. Also a new section, Savor which features special plates and special drinks.

Before I close this letter there are a few people to thank - The Chamber Group, Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta, Rhonda Ware, Cameron Foster, Beth Sobol and Miami Fashion Week, Chloe Williams, Vanessa Bush and everyone else who helped to make this issue great.

I hope you enjoy and love this issue as much as I do. See you next issue which will also mark the 5th anniversary for Xposure!

Goldyn P. Smith Publisher/Editor in Chief gps@xposure365.com

Twitter

- @HoneyBFlyy

@GoldynRules

Dearly beloved, July 27 marks the 30th anniversary of Purple Rain. The cult classic film hit the silver screen July 27, 1984 nearly a month after the soundtrack was released. The film was a huge commercial success, it cost $7 million to make and pulled in close to $70 million. Not bad for a film shot in 7 weeks! According to reports, Prince went to director Albert Magnoli with 100 songs to choose for the film ironically, When Doves Cry and Take Me With You were not in the intial 100. The film has had quite a cultural impact since its release and has become a legendary film. The soundtrack not only helped to define a generation but continues to remind us why Prince is the genius he is.

The first verse of Purple Rain is dedicated to his father, then his ex-girlfriend (Apollonia), and then his band mates. A solo and verse from the original recording were edited out, changing the length from eleven to eight minutes

Appolonia’s role was initially offered to Jennifer Beals (who turned it down because she wanted to concentrate on college) before going to Apollonia Kotero, a virtual unknown at the time.

First Avenue was paid $100,000 for use of the club in filming; it was closed for 25 days.

Purple Rain was released by Warner Bros. Records on June 25, 1984, and was Prince’s sixth album.This marked the first time Prince included live recordings on any release. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score.

The “Purple Rain” soundtrack spent 24 weeks at Number 1 on the Billboard charts although the title track only hit Number 2.

“Take Me With U” was originally written for an Apollonia 6 album. The duet Prince sings with co-star Apollonia Kotero — was initially slated to appear on an Apollonia 6 album. It later ended up being chosen for the film, which is how it ended up on the album Purple Rain. The Apollonia 6 group performed another song, “Sex Shooter,” in the movie.

Prince originally asked Stevie Nicks to write lyrics for “Purple Rain,” but she turned him down. Prince and Stevie Nicks became friends when she wrote a song inspired by his 1999 tune, “Little Red Corvette,” which became her huge hit “Stand Back.” Prince was so impressed with her abilities, he asked her if she’d write lyrics to an instrumental that ultimately became the foundation for “Purple Rain.” “It was so overwhelming, that 10-minute track… I listened to it and I just got scared,” Nicks told The Guardian. “I called him back and said, ‘I can’t do it. I wish I could. It’s too much for me.’ I’m so glad that I didn’t, because he wrote it, and it became ‘Purple Rain.’”

MAC Celebrates The Simpsons

MAC Cosmetics, which will launch a limited-edition color cosmetics collection based on “The Simpsons” in September, plans to give it a test run at San Diego’s Comic Con on July 26. The 10-piece lineup — which includes two eyeshadow palettes, four Lipglasses, two powder blushes, nail stickers and false lashes — will be sold for that day only at the MAC Cosmetics Gaslamp store, where customers can also receive a Marge Simpson-style makeover. Products range from $16.50 to $44. When asked about her favorite products from the collection, Marge replied — “They’re all so great, but I must say that Lisa’s Spikes really works well with my skin tone and of course, Beehive Blue complements my hair perfectly.” The collection will be available in all MAC stores on Sept.4 and online at maccosmetics.com on Aug. 28.

The alliance between Ace Hardware and OPI is the first-ever collaboration of its kind and combines Ace’s expertise in paint with OPI’s expertise in color to create the OPI Color Palette by Clark+Kensington. The new color palette will launch this month in over 3,200 Ace Hardware stores nationwide and offer consumers the opportunity to bring their favorite nail lacquer colors to life within their home décor.

The OPI Color Palette by Clark+Kensington will launch with three collections comprised of six iconic OPI shades each, for a total of 18 new paint colors.

“It was important for OPI to partner with Ace Hardware, a known industry expert in paint, to bring our iconic colors to life,” said Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Co-Founder & Executive Vice President. “The paint colors in the OPI Color Palette by Clark+Kensington offer a refreshing alternative to the home décor category and we’re excited to give our fans the opportunity to experience their favorite OPI colors in a new way. Clark+Kensington is now fashion’s favorite paint!”

OPI Clark+Kensington

The Wizard of Oz gets a haute couture update for a great cause. In a collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products and the Tonner Doll Collection. The miniature haute couture ensembles will be modeled on Tonner’s 22-inch dolls, which will make their debut during New York Fashion Week on Sept. 4, when they will become available for bidding by fans on eBay Giving Works. The charity auction will run until Sept. 14, with all proceeds contributing to the “There’s No Place Like Home” campaign benefitting Habitat for Humanity. Inspired by Dorothy, Glinda the Good Witch, and the Wicked Witch of the West, Trina Turk, Donna Karan, BCBG Max Azria, Chris Benz, Jenny Packham, Marc Jacobs, Betsey Johnson, and Anna Sui are among the designers who have created glamorous looks for the dolls.

Gladiators rejoice! This fall, you will be able to purchase the Scandal collection at The Limited. The 42-piece collection includes tops, pants, jackets and outerwear, with prices starting at $49 - $248. The Scandal collection will land in 250 Limited mall-based stores and on the retailer’s Web site in late September. The collection, set to debut in stores and online on Sept. 22, marks the first design collaboration between a national retailer and a top-rated network TV show, its costume designer and star. “By creating a line inspired by the show, we are introducing a collection that embodies the elegance and power of the Scandal aesthetic for real-life gladiators and everyday fashionistas,” Washington said in a statement. “The collection is a nod to our devoted fans, to fans of fashion and to women everywhere who are inspired to boldly pursue their passions and look good while doing it.”

Ellen DeGeneres is entering the design game with E.D., a lifestyle brand launching with a gift-oriented capsule collection for holiday.Fully realized, E.D. will encompass categories from home to fashion to chic wares for some of DeGeneres’ favorite friends — dogs and cats. And she’s thinking big. “I’m not trying to launch a little boutique situation,” DeGeneres told WWD over lunch on New York’s Upper East Side. To that end, she calls the project her “next phase,” one she expects to flourish and occupy her professional attentions full-time, long after her talk-show days are done.E.D. will launch in late October/early November with a capsule home decor product range that takes the name of the holiday-selling season to heart. Distribution will be online and brick-and-mortar through partners.

This is a refined watch Classic Fusion pure white as snow. White diamonds, white dial, white strap, the Hublot “Art of Fusion” philosophy goes all white - as magic and eternal, so feminine and elegant, summertime or wintertime. It takes inspiration from the codes of traditional watchmaking while displaying Hublot’s trademark modernity. Part of the Classic Fusion collection characterised by softer, more classic lines, this is the Classic Fusion Chronograph White. This timepiece comes into 2 different references, from an elegant sporty Titanium Chronograph version to a King Gold (extra-precious gold containing 5% platinum) Chronograph version, totalizing 42 white diamonds for 1.35 carat for the bezel. The watch has an aesthetically pleasing diameter of 42 mm. Designed for men and women, it is also designed to please connoisseurs with its HUB1100 self-winding mechanical chronograph movement (155 components – 28’800 A/h) featuring a date with a rectangular window at 6 o’clock and a power reserve of 42 hours. Finally, the ensemble is completed with a white strap with a deployant buckle, in white alligator leather sewn onto tone-ontone rubber for comfort, flexibility and increased durability of the leather. Water resistant to 5 ATM, i.e. 50 metres.

2014 Miami Fashion Week featured designers and collections from all over the world. This page features designs from Sherri Hill who says her designs enhance the female form with fashion forward styling and wearability. Hill has dressed a wealth of celebrities including Selena Gomez, Carrie Underwood and Bella Thorne.

The collections I always look forward to include Nicolas Felizola, Stella Jean, Paulo Silva, The Willbourn Sisters and Viviana G. Check out some of our favorite looks from these collections.

Nicolas Felizola

Paulo Silva

Viviana G.

The Willbourn Sisters

Stella Jean

As a way to say “Thank You” for helping to make MFW a success over the years, Beth Sobol, President of Miami Fashion Week offered American InterContinentaI University South Florida’s Fashion Marketing & Design Department the opportunity of having a display or “AIU installation” at Miami Fashion Week; and AIU South Florida graciously accepted the invitation. The idea was to promote the students and their work in fashion design, jewelry design, fashion photography, graphic design, merchandising and all of the various creative areas AIU has to offer.

MFW was a tremendous opportunity of exposure for the work of the Fashion Department and promotion of the university. The exhibit features a collection of work from the AIU South Florida “Wounded Love on the Catwalk” Fashion Show, including mannequins dressed in designs created by student designers: Annie Butler, Niia Bostick, Priscilla Johenkins, Janelle Reyes, Marlene Rossi; in addition to the works of Professor/Designer Desirae Allen. Each garment was accompanied by easel displays of the designer’s fashion illustrations; while incorporating their skills in Visual Merchandising.

The AIU Fashion Marketing/Design installation was on display during Miami Fashion Week on May 15th -18th, 2014 at the Miami Beach Convention Center located at 1901 Convention Center Dr., Miami Beach, FL 33139.

Photos and article - Desirae Allen.

Desirae Allen

Desirae Allen Annie Butler Janelle Reyes

Marlene Rossi Niia Bostick

Priscilla Johenkins Desirae Allen

Fantasy meets fashion is how you can describe haute couture fashion week. A few things are required to be considered haute couture according to the Chambre Syndicate de la Haute Couture. Requirements include one thousand hours of work on each piece, a workshop in Paris, employ at least 15 people full time and publicly present two collections per year with at least 35 pieces for day and evening.

Zuhair Murad

Chanel

Givenchy, Chanel, Dior, and Armani are a few of the fashion houses that are approved to produce haute couture pieces, there are only 15 total. The pieces featured are customized creations for people who want a work of art. Couture pieces can cost anywhere from $14,000 - infinity. Here are some of our favorite looks fresh off the runways in Paris.

Armani

Best of 2015 Bridal

With wedding season in full swing, here are some of our favorite looks from the 2015 Bridal collections.

Vera Wang Monique Lhuillier

Carolina Herrera

Alberta Ferretti

Oscar De La Renta

Naeem Khan

Jenny Packham

Temperly London

Here are some of the resort looks we love! These pieces can be worn for a nice day out yachting of an evening of cocktails.

Bottega Veneta

Power Moves

Kevin Holly

One thing is for certain when you see Kevin Holly or Holly as I’ve come to know him - he has an impeccable sense of style. Always dressed up, he arrived for our interview in a custom blue suit. “I was given advice on expanding my wardrobe and to include as many suits as possible. Once I started dressing differently I noticed the perception became different. “

While searching on Instagram for luxury pages, I found Holly’s page Upscale Luxury. What surprised me about the page was the young man behind it. Holly is the Co Founder and Co Creator of Upscale Luxury. “It started as an idea while sitting at my desk, I needed something to take my mind off of work for a minute. I’ve always been a fan of great architecture and luxury cars. I grew up reading books, my mother required me to read. She gave me limited time to watch TV and play video games while I was growing up.

Most of the quotes I use are from the many books I’ve read. The goal of Upscale Luxury is to keep everyone motivated and inspire them to be greater.” One of the quotes Holly uses often is “I aspire to inspire before I expire.” With that in mind, the Upscale Luxury website will offer even more inspiration including video interviews and more. To find out more including the launch date for the Upscale Luxury website, log on to Upscale Luxury’s page via Instagram.

We all have grown up listening to stories about heroes. Most about the struggles that they had to face, the battles that they had to fight to prove their strength and courage, or the obstacles that they had to endure in life to achieve such a sacrificial title. The term ‘Hero’ may come as only fictional to some but they do exist; They appear in small communities in the world where we need them most. Behold musician, DJ, teacher, mediator, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Mr. Eric Smith.

Although he came from a music upbringing, a career in music was not a certainty for Eric. Eric had Retinitis Pigmentosa or a slow deterioration of the sight. However this did not come as a surprise because Eric’s grandfather, father, and brother have the same disease. Eric said, “I still see silhouettes and shapes, but at a certain age there is a possibility that I may lose all my sight.” The disease differentiates per person. Eric had to walk away from basketball at age 28 and began to grow closer to his forever passion of music and began to work to beat the odds and started playing bass at age 30. “I enjoy playing music,” Said Smith. “My motto is to focus on the music and not the money.”

In 2005 Eric attended Georgia State University. He joined the student leadership committee. He then started a jazz combo at his school which formed over time towards the end of his school career. After college he worked for a law firm and worked in mediation where he found he loved it and could pursue this as another career alongside music. As a mediator he gets both parties to accomplish a truce or basis. In 2010 he became certified in mediation in Washington, D.C. And in 2014 he is working on a certification in divorce mediation. Eric refuses to let his disease become who he is. “We are always growing,” said Smith. “When we stop growing we become stagnant.”

In January 2012 began the old school and new jack station with DJ Ric E Smith. Every Wednesday night from 7-11 pm you can hear Smith jamming and mix mastering to chart topping artists such as Patti LaBelle, Bob Marley, and The Temptations.

Each week Smith features a major artist along with encouraging a workout mix to get people dancing.

Leadership and mentorship is a big part of Eric’s life as well. He mentors the youth, especially at risk young men, to help work with them so that they may achieve what they want in life and remain driven. He mentors aspiring musicians and speaks at schools and at career days. He does motivational speaking, guest speaking, and teaches classes at schools such as UGA.

At 43 years old, Eric Smith has achieved success on various skilled levels and for him this is only just the beginning. “I am an entrepreneur with a lot of flexibility. I have an open schedule and I can accept or decline any music or mediation job. I do not like to make rushed and unorganized decisions,” said Smith. “I weigh out my options and determi ne if I can provide the best work ethic possible.”

In February 2013, Eric released his single ‘Show Me What You Do’ on ITunes. June 15, 2014 is the target release date for Smith’s solo album, The Next Boss, which has all original songs co-written with Eric by the very talented Jerry White, and features other artists including Eric’s father and musician Dr. Alfred ‘Doc’ Smith.

At this point in his life Smith is working diligently so that he can ensure the success of his band, his career, and his family all while patiently awaiting a cure for his eyesight or in Smith’s words for “God’s Will.” One benefit in helping with Smiths sight is computer assisted technology and software that assists in his everyday tasks and lifestyle such as speaking texts or messages sent and music request when he is a DJ on air so he does not require human assistance.

Eric Smith is the perfect example of a modern day hero and who we all hope to emulate. A human being who on the cusp of one of the worse things to happen in his life, began to work much harder to discredit any impossibility. Smith is an accomplished artist, musician, mentor, and business owner. He is a true inspiration and a solid truth that anything is possible in life no matter the circumstance. He did not come from a rough upbringing but he was dealt a difficult card in life and chose to not fold and lay his cards down. Eric said “I would like to recognize and appreciate the women who are inspirations in my life. My mother Jackie Smith, My wife Gwenevere Smith, and my daughter Erin Smith.”

Eric Smith

Next On Deck

How did you discover music and what was the defining moment that helped you decide to make music your career?

The first time I heard a Stevie Wonder’s “I Just called to Say I Love You” was a defining moment for me. Even though I was just 7 years old, that music, and those simple but powerful lyrics, moved me. I actually remember crying because it was so beautiful to me; It made me think about my parents, and how much they loved me...that was the only thing I could relate it to at so young an age. I had always been able to sing and play the piano by ear, but when I heard that song, I realized that I wanted to create music that moved people the way that song moved me.

For the people who may not have heard your music, how would you describe your sound?

My sound is many different flavors of soul, hence the name: CandySoul. I’m everything from Hip-Hop/Soul to Country/Soul. It does not matter the genre, once you add my voice, it becomes soulful. I have a very smooth and sweet voice. My songs are very melodic with lots of rich harmonies. My lyrics are honest, heartfelt, and simple. In short, it’s timeless and warm.

You have generated a lot of buzz, not only locally but nationwide. Why do you think people have responded so well to your music? People are searching for REAL music. Music with REAL messages. REAL musical arrangements and chord progressions; Long lasting melodies. People are searching for timeless music, and that is what I possess.

What do you want your musical legacy to be and what’s the one thing you want people to know about you?

When people think about me and my music, I want them to say that I inspired LOVE; I want them to hear my music and it brings back a beautiful memory. The one thing I want people to know about me is that it uplifts me to uplift others. Music is my therapy.

What future projects/ collaborations can we look forward to from you?

I will be releasing my new single “Mars Meets Pluto” at the end of April. “Mars Meets Pluto” is a funky and soulful jam in which I sing about the “making LOVE” experience, relating it to the cosmos and the galaxy....to create an “out of this world” experience. The GREAT escape.... This song is from my upcoming EP in which I am collaborating with music producer LT Moe. The project/collab is called “Mo’ Candy”, which will be out this summer.

How can the readers find out more about you and your music?

They can find me on most social media outlets such as facebook, twitter, soundcloud, youtube, and my website at: www. candysoulonline.com. Also, my music is available download at: www.cdbaby.com/cd/candysoul2

Last words to readers?

Stay true to yourself. There are too many followers and imitators in this world; so much that we are loosing INDIVIDUALS, especially in music. Be YOU, and know that you are enough. Never give up on your dreams. Allow your gifts to make room for you like the bible says. Seek God, and he will lead the way. And always remember to just Smile...something so simple, does so much good; I am a living witness!

Candy Soul

Ransom Razina is not only a music artist. Ransom Razina is a brand representing consciousness, royalty, power and overall greatness. Influenced by the hustle of Jay-Z, the poeticism of Nas, the revolutionary side of 2pac, and the wordplay of rappers such as Lil Wayne, Cassidy, and Fabolous, Ransom Razina has developed a style like none other. Using music as the medium, this young artist has plans of “Spreading love, knowledge, balance, and positive energies, in an attempt to change the world.”

Where does Ransom Razina come from? Is it a more marketable moniker that you created, a sudden inspiration, or a title you just earned through your music career?

My Birth name is actually Ransom. I am the third. For me the word Ransom means to take the world into your possession. And Razina in Swahili. It means strong and patient.

When did you realize that this career choice could be serious for you especially in this time in the arts where being different is the usual factor and specialty determines the best from the rest?

I look at myself from my life experiences and realized I could be a mirror for others. When they see me or my logo they can see the greatness in them from what I have been through. That’s the factor that separates (Ransom) from others. We all are one with different perspectives. I want to provide THAT perspective. We are here to provide our different ideas, experiences, and perspectives in life. That’s what my music is for.

You have a solid execution, spot on wordplay, and an open deliverance. You are very supportive of your fan base and have built up a great following. Today, labels look for an artist more for the following that they have rather than the talent because it is so rare to find someone who stands out. What fuels you as an artist aside from becoming signed to a major label?

I haven’t written down a single lyric since high school. It’s all stored in my head. On ‘FLTM’, I wished that I had filmed it because I just went off creatively. Myself versus another artist differentiates because I am in tune with myself creatively, consciously, and spiritually. God is an infinite source.

What do you believe inspires your fans to support you beyond the music and the hype?

I meditate. My inspiration comes from my true self. I always say ‘I believe’ before what I believe. I respect all peoples beliefs and what they believe in. I am a believer in God.

I take time to meditate, I take time to be with myself, because everything in society is such a repetitive cycle.

Shop.ransomrazina.com has some hot clothes. What inspired you to create your own clothing line?

I’m probably one of the least stylish, stylish people you might ever meet. I know what I like but I’m just learning to put stuff together. When I would do shows, I could never find anything to wear at the malls so I created something for me but other people liked it so I made it available to them. Designer Tiffany Cosey is my business partner, stylist, and visionary behind (the line). Every night I have a show, she makes another piece.

What is your advice to other artists on their grind working hard to not be judged, cast aside, and stereotyped as a one track artist?

Artists trying to get away from the stereotype should stay true to themselves. When you do what you love, everything else will come. Love is an expression of God, and from that being you will get your blessing. Nothing is better. Do not do anything that is not fulfilling just to pay the bills. All things come from self and we all are one. Live for the moment because all we ever have is now.

PLUG, PLUG, PLUG! You are our Next On Deck Artist to follow so open up one last time for your fans before we close out. Tell us something that we do not know about Ransom but would love…

I got a lot of new music coming soon! It’s crazy right now! But y’all will see! Stay tuned! Log on to http://www.RansomRazina.com for more info.

- Etta East

Ransom Razina

The Essence Music Fest started with a bang! There were performances filled with soul from all of the performers of the evening. This is the first time Essence has had a Thursday night concert event and hopefully will become a tradition. Trey Songz performed his classic hits and even songs from his brand new album, Trigga to the delight of the crowd.

The night also marked the return of Jazmine Sullivan who looked and sounded nothing short of amazing. The rebel herself K. Michelle also took to the stage to give one of her most soulful performances to date. Jesse Boykins III also took the stage by storm. Legendary lyricist Nas, graced the stage to give a dynamic show to attendees at the Superdome.

Photo Credits: Cameron Foster/ PsucheDesigns.com, Chris Mitchell, Maya Washington

Notable community leaders, celebrities and entertainers were out in full force at this year’s McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held today at the New Orleans Theater in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. They were joined by a full house of spectators who converged to salute this year’s recipients of the distinguished award, including civil rights activist the Rev. Al Sharpton; film producer Will Packer; music executive Kevin Liles; inspirational leader Iyanla Vanzant; former NFL athlete Dhani Jones; and McDonald’s owner/operator Henry Coaxum. Additionally, artist Skyler Grey and entrepreneur Gabrielle Jordan Williams were recognized alongside this lineup with the first-ever McDonald’s 365Black Community Choice Youth Award.

McDonald’s 365Black Awards are given annually to salute outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. The program launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African Americans year-round. This year’s event was hosted by actor/television host Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins and actress Tika Sumpter and was held in conjunction with ESSENCE Festival™ presented by Coca-Cola®.

Those who missed the live awards ceremony can share in the experience by watching the broadcast on BET® Networks on August 10 at 10 p.m. EDT/9 p.m. CDT. The awards ceremony will also air on CENTRIC on August 17 at 11 p.m. EDT/10 p.m. CDT. Additionally, consumers can follow@McDScene on Twitter for commentary on the awards and join the conversation using #365BlackAwards.

This 4th of July will be remembered forever as the legendary night of Soul. Janelle Monae took the stage to the crowds delight with hits from her Electric Lady album including Q.U.E.E.N, Givin Em What They Love, Dance Apocalyptic and more. Prince even surprised the crowd by coming out jamming with her.

Nile Rogers and Chic took the stage and the Superdome became one huge family reunion with the electric slide and all. They played all the hits including Le Freak, and when they played Good Times they invited people up on the stage. Last night really was a party, the band also performed Get Lucky, I Want Your Love and more. Prince came out a second time to the crowd’s surprise to jam.

The Superdome became Paisley Park once Prince took the stage starting off with Let’s Go Crazy! With everyone speculating what he would perform, he opened the set with one of his most legendary hits. The hits kept coming with Prince asking if we forgot how many hits he had. From the time he went on the stage, everyone was on their feet. Prince then performed hits like Kiss, When Doves Cry, Raspberry Beret, Little Red Corvette, U Got The Look, Take Me With You, and more. Highlight of the night was a 9 minute 49 second performance of Purple Rain, the was not a dry eye in the house. He left the stage after the performance and released balloons into the dome. Prince performed everything you could think of with a set of almost 2 hours and we still were not ready to leave. Prince came back for two encores with almost a five minute standing ovation each time.The night was nothing short of amazing, it was a magical night with a purpose. Prince performed with a purpose to help the Rebuild the Dream Innovation Fund and #YesWeCode. Which organizes hundreds of training organizations that teach low-opportunity youth how to code computers and teach them different languages for different kinds of programs.

Anthony Anderson screened his new TV show Blackish which will debut this Fall on ABC. Blackish stars Laurence Fishburne, Tracy Ellis Ross, Yara Shahidi and more. Black-ish debuts September 24,2014.

As part of ESSENCE’s Year of Empowerment, Iyanla Vanzant fixed the lives of all in attendance to hear her speak. I was lucky enough to be in attendance as she taught us lessons on forgiveness, love, acceptance more. Iyanla had us in tears and laughter and challenged us to be better. Hopefully, next year Essence will have another round of the Empowerment series which also featured Alicia Keys, Rev. Al Sharpton, Steve Harvey, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Iyanla Vanzant, Yolanda Adams, Van Jones, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Compton Mayor Aja Brown, and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu.

Chadwick Boseman and crew screened the James Brown biopic Get On Up for a special Essence Fest audience.

The lineup for Saturday included Ledisi, Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, The Roots and more. Ledisi started off the night and rocked the crowd singing her hits including I Blame You and more. The Roots took to the stage and set the Superdome on fire with their hits and even brought out special guest Common and even Nelly came to bless the set with Hot In Here. Miss Jill Scott graced the stage looking amazing and had the crowd singing along to all of her hits. Jill performed Golden, Rolling Hills, and even her early hits A Long Walk and more. Mary J. Blige took the stage and watching her on stage run through her catolog with such energy was amazing. Mary also had a few costume changes as well. The crowd in the Superdome sang their heart with her while she performed My Life, No More Drama, Everything, Family Affair and more. The evening was nothing short of a dance party with a few sentimental moments especially when Mary performed No More Drama. Saturday was full of soul, fun and music.

Essence Saturday

Sunday night’s concerts started off with the one and only Tamar Braxton. She performed her hits from Love And War including Tip Toe, Love and War and All The Way Home. After a brief intermission, Dave Chappelle came out to surprise the crowd. Dave laughed and joked with the crowd and introduced Miss Erykah Badu. Erykah took the stage and slayed the stage and crowd with all of her hits and kept the crowd on their feet. Charlie Wilson who always gives a dynamic show was nothing short of amazing with this year’s performance. Uncle Charlie kept the crowd on their feet and even gave us a taste of his Jamaican rapper impression. Charlie performed all of his Gap Band hits all the way up to his latest music. One special moment was when he let us sing Yearning For Your Love. Lionel Richie took the stage after a brief intermission and wowed the crowd with his classic hits like Easy, Hello and Zoom. Although Sunday was the last night of Essence, we have plenty of memories to hold us until next year.

Dave Chappelle & Erykah

Mary J. Blige

Janelle Monae & Nile Rogers

Sevyn & August Alsina

Miss Erykah Badu

Keke Wyatt

Marsha Ambrosius SWV

Tevin Campbell

Savor

Traditional Hurricane Recipe:

2 oz light rum

2 oz dark rum

2 oz passion fruit juice

1 oz orange juice

½ oz fresh lime juice

1 Tablespoon simple syrup

1 Tablespoon grenadine

Garnish: orange slice and cherry

Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a Hurricane glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.

TasteofNewOrleans

Oceana Grill’s Redfish Lafourche is a blackened Redfish, topped with mushroom crawfish cream sauce, topped with fried crawfish tails, laid on top of jambalaya, and finally served with Vegetables.

During my latest trip to cover #EssenceFest

I stopped by Dragos to grab an order of the famous charbroiled oysters. Starting as an experiment in 1993, Tommy Cvitanovich made a sauce of butter, garlic and herbs. After brushing the sauce onto the oysters and dusting them with Parmesan and Romano cheese and grilling them, he knew it was something special. Dragos serves at least 900 dozen charbroiled oysters per day. I had 2 dozen orders along with the Crabmeat Au Gratin which was outstanding. Dragos has 2 locations in New Orleans at the Hilton and in Metarie, go treat yourself next time you’re down in Louisiana.

Pat O’Brien Hurricane

If you’re looking for one of the most chic hotel experiences in New Orleans - International House is the hotel for you. The hotel has a sophisticated, upscale feel with a great staff. The front desk staff is warm and welcoming and extremely detailed oriented. The lobby is beautiful with lots of great artwork during the day and especially at night with lit candles, beautiful furniture and flowers. The rooms feel like a bedroom in your home, upon entering you will see a welcome note handwritten from the staff. The room overall is extremely spacious and if you have lots of luggage, you will be in love with the closet. International House definitely makes your stay in New Orleans an unforgettable experience.

Sin City: A Dame to Kill For is directed by Robert Rodriguez who co-wrote the script with William Monahan (The Departed) and Frank Miller, creator of the graphic novel series and co-director of the first film. Dwight (Josh Brolin) is hunted down by the only woman he ever loved, Ava Lord (Eva Green), and then watches his life go straight to hell. Chronologically, this story takes place prior to “The Big Fat Kill” (seen in the first Sin City) and explains how Dwight came to have a dramatically different face. Jessica Alba, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Mickey Rourke, Juno Temple, Jaime King, Rosario Dawson and many others star in the film being shot in 3D and Dimension Films will send the sequel to theaters on August 22nd this summer.

Jimi: All is By My Side is written and directed by John Ridley (writer of 12 Years a Slave). Covering a year in the life of Jimi Hendrix (André Benjamin) from 1966-67 as an unknown backup guitarist playing New York’s Cheetah Club to making his mark in London’s music scene up until his Monterey Pop triumph, the film presents an intimate portrait of the sensitive young musician on the verge of becoming a rock legend. Hayley Atwell, Imogen Poots, Andrew Buckley and Ruth Negga also star in the film which hits theaters September 26

In The Equalizer, Denzel Washington plays McCall, a man who believes he has put his mysterious past behind him and dedicated himself to beginning a new, quiet life. But when McCall meets Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters, he can’t stand idly by - he has to help her. Armed with hidden skills that allow him to serve vengeance against anyone who would brutalize the helpless, McCall comes out of his self-imposed retirement and finds his desire for justice reawakened. If someone has a problem, if the odds are stacked against them, if they have nowhere else to turn, McCall will help. He is The Equalizer.

Heavy Metal

A turbocharged three-cylinder engine/electric motor duo with a combined 357 hp delivers M3-like acceleration, a 155-mph top speed, and Prius-like efficiency. BMW i8 uses it for is to show drivers how much electric range they have, how cool or warm the car is before getting in to maximize battery use, and how long the i8 has to charge, among other readouts. Other electric vehicle automakers have used smartphone apps in the past, but this is the first to have all of that diagnostic information available via the car key. 2015 BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car starts at $136,650.

2015 BMW i8

There has been lots of speculation whether Bentley would actually produce an SUV. Over the last few weeks, there have been spy shots of the SUV under heavy black wrap. We finally have a few shots of what will most likely be produce. due to enter production in 2016 and should be in showrooms either that year or in early 2017. Third-row seating is planned, though it’s not clear if this will be standard or optional.which will make its official debut at next year’s Frankfurt auto show. The production version will follow in 2016, we’re hoping it resembles these photos. No confirmation on the name, it was rumored to be called Falcon but Ford has rights to that name at the moment. The company is reportedly aiming for a 200-mile-per-hour top speed and may possibly offer a plugin hybrid powertrain, as well. The rumored MSRP is around $220,000 more details will be released as we get closer to the release.

2016 Bentley SUV

Heavy Metal

Cadillac will build 500 special-edition coupes for 2015. Cadillac bundled together several optional extras to create an appealing end-of-generation offering.Special-edition customers get the 556-hp CTS-V’s optional satin graphite–colored 19-inch wheels, redpainted Brembo brake calipers, black chrome grille, Recaro seats, suede steering wheel and shift knob, and Midnight Sapele wood trim for $72,195.

2015 Cadillac CTS-V

What was once a concept, has now become reality. What started as a simple in-game car model blossomed into a company-wide endeavor for Nissan. Nissan Design Europe started the project, which eventually crossed over to the Japan-based Nissan Technical Center. The concept car was spearheaded by Taisuke Nakamura, from the european design team.Nissan’s Andy Palmer said could become a classic car in its own right. “It’s something that was born in virtual reality and it’s come to reality. I think that so well describes the social trends that we see, the millennials, the Gen Zs and how important virtual reality, social media is to those people – those kids now – as they grow up. That’s their norm,” said Palmer. With the next GT-R expected in 2017, could this be a glimpse into what we can expect?

Nissan Vision Gran Turismo

I had the pleasure of attending a private driving event here in Atlanta thanks to a special invitation from Ferrari Maserati of Atlanta. The model I drove was the Ghibli S which was fully loaded and goes 0-60 in 4 seconds. If speed, sophistication and power are what you’re looking for - you’ve found it in the Ghibli. In the spirit of full disclosure, I had my eye on purchasing a Jaguar XF, customized it and everything. I received the invite to drive the Ghibli and changed my mind. The moment I sat in the car I could see the supreme craftsmanship Maserati placed into creating this car. From the beautiful dark real wood accents, to the soft leather around the steering wheel and on the seats the car feels great. One of the things I learned and loved about the Ghibli is the stereo system - once you place a CD into the player the songs are automatically stored in the car. Thank goodness for no more CD’s! I also loved the touch screen control panel which was easy to adjust the temperature for the entire vehicle all in one swipe. Additionally, if you’re in need of a mobile hotspot, the Ghibli has you covered.

I had on 6 inch heels so I drove barefoot (don’t try that at home kids) and as I lightly placed my foot on the gas, I was extremely impressed. Even though the Ghibli S has 404 hp with an eight speed automatic engine - it was an extremely smooth take off and ride. The AWD was impressive as well as it handled all the curves with smooth precision. My co pilot is a professional race car driver who encouraged me to really push the car in which the police did not find amusing but understood. The single best thing about the Ghibli is the price, starting at 66,900 which makes it an affordable luxury sedan all the bells and whistles can run you around $97,000. Contact your local Maserati dealer for more information.

Maserati Ghibli

Currency Matters

As a result of government-wide spending cuts in 2013, Federal workers faced unpaid furloughs. In solidarity with federal workers who faced unpaid furloughs in 2013, President Obama donated 5% of his salary to the Treasury’s General Fund, writing 7 checks for a total of $20,000. “The President has decided that to share in the sacrifice being made by public servants ... he will contribute a portion of his salary back to the Treasury.”

Capital One has pledged to make it easier for people with bad banking histories to qualify for checking accounts. The bank announced it will change its policies and make it possible for “many thousands” of New Yorkers -- and consumers nationwide -- to qualify for bank accounts. Under its agreement with the Attorney General, Capital One will no longer use ChexSystems or other credit bureaus to assess the risk of a customer based on past missteps like a bounced check. It will, however, continue to conduct background checks to look for fraudulent activity. Additionally, Capital One will donate $50,000 to the Office of Financial Empowerment, a financial counseling agency in New York for low-income residents. That money will be used to help applicants who have been denied bank accounts due to a ChexSystems report get back into the banking system.

Synchrony Bank (formerly GE Capital) was ordered to pay $56 million to 638,000 customers that the CFPB said were misled about certain add-on products -- like debt cancellation services that it said were free when they weren’t, and charging people without their knowledge. According to the Justice Department, $169 million -- will be refunded to 108,000 customers who were allegedly discriminated against when the bank excluded them from debt relief offers because they lived in Puerto Rico or asked to receive communications in Spanish.

“The Bank identified this matter through its own internal audit, promptly reported it to the CFPB, and commenced a remediation,” the bank said in a statement. “The Bank regrets this error. Its priority is treating customers fairly and when issues are identified, it is committed to making it right.”

This is the sixth action the CFPB has taken against a credit card issuer for illegal actions surrounding credit card add-on products, but only the second it has taken against a bank for discrimination issues. In addition to refunds for consumers, GE Capital was also ordered to pay a $3.5 million penalty to the CFPB.