Inside The 'Soul' of Jon Batiste

Pixar’s new animated film Soul is the story of Joe Gardner – a middle school music teacher with aspirations of becoming a reputable jazz performer. Released on December 25th via Disney+, the film’s major themes were tied to that of love, gratitude and living life to its fullest potential. Jamie Foxx stars as Soul’s main character, but the soundtrack to this movie is provided primarily by the composition and performances of real-life musician, Jon Batiste.

As one of several of the film’s musical consultants (which also included Questlove, Herbie Hancock and Daveed Diggs), Batiste’s perception about jazz can be found throughout Soul. As a native of New Orleans, Louisiana; the birthplace of the genre, the pressure of being from that city can weigh heavy on certain artists. “There is a responsibility to uphold a level,” Batiste states. “You need to be on the highest level possible. The quality has to be there – musicians from New Orleans have always been leaders in many forms of black music. I always try to maintain that quality in my compositions.”

For over five years, Jon Batiste and his group Stay Human appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert as the program’s house band. He also comes from a respected lineage of musicians, which includes his father Michael, Alvin Batiste, Lionel Batiste of the Treme Brass Band, Milton Batiste of the Olympia Brass Band, composer and arranger Harold Batiste, and Russell Batiste Jr. During his jazz education at The New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and Juilliard, he learned about different methods of creation. Batiste also spoke about the importance of inspiration. “I always try to find inspiration in everything that I’m doing. This film is so inspiring – it’s about finding purpose,” he said. “I had a lot of inspiration just from the film and all of the different forms of music that the film is drawing from.

The fact that Soul is Pixar’s first film with an African-American lead; it increased the importance of composing a soundtrack of a certain caliber. Jon expressed his feelings about being involved with such a groundbreaking part of cinematic history. “For a long time, I wanted to do something with Disney/Pixar, and I wanted to be representative of all the things that I am about. Soul was the perfect fit.” Many of these aspects are a daily part of Batiste’s life. His love for jazz as well as black music reached past the film itself, and into the emotions of the audience.

With gratitude being one of Soul’s central themes, it is appropriate to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many artist’s creative process due to the lack of physical interaction. In losing the ability to collaborate with other musicians in the traditional sense, one becomes grateful for the opportunities that they are afforded. “When you’re a musician who is used to playing music with other people, its an adjustment,” Batiste spoke. “So, I think you just have to find balance, and figure out a way to find your voice during these difficult times.”

One of the standout quotes from the film is when its main character proclaims, “Music is all I think about, from the moment I wake up in the morning to the moment I fall asleep at night.” This same passion for music is prevalent in Soul’s soundtrack, as well as how Jon Batiste approaches all of his compositions – be it large or small. The film’s music is simply an extension of the artist’s creative genius, which allows the viewer to enjoy its sounds, while learning some lessons along the way.

Black Comedy

Comedy, much like sports, has always been linked to hip-hop music and urban culture. The athletes, comedians and musicians of each era many times came up together; but life and unique experiences pointed them in different directions in terms of their professions.

Throughout its history, comedy has taught us as a people to laugh at our pain and forced us to find a silver lining in even the darkest of situations. As people of color, comedy has remained a consistent outlet to tell stories, embrace the culture, and satirize the political and social climate in the United States. For many, the opportunity to voice their opinion on certain topics became therapeutic; because free-speech is an inalienable right that should never be taken for granted.

In observance of National Humor Month, I compiled a list of the top African-American comedians, beginning with Richard Pryor. Each comedian contributed significantly to the time in which they dominated. From situational, physical, and my personal favorite, satirical comedy; these men left a lasting impression on not just comedy, but popular culture overall.

Richard Pryor (1972 – 1983)

Widely regarded as the greatest comedian of all-time, Richard Pryor’s uncanny ability to examine racial and social issues through the scope of humor has become the blueprint for almost every comic that followed him. His short-lived sketch comedy series The Richard Pryor Show, served as a heavy influence for television programs such as In Living Color, The Chappelle Show, and Key & Peele.

He officially began his career in 1963, but didn’t rise to prominence until the 1970’s. After writing for The Flip Wilson Show and Sanford & Son, he appeared in many of the cult classics during the Blaxploitation period in America.

The adage “fact is stranger than fiction” directly applies to Richard Pryor. The events that took place in his life are legendary. His personal experiences began as harsh lessons, but soon transitioned into some of the greatest comedy bits in history. Hands down, Mr. Pryor is the greatest to ever do it… point, blank, period.

Eddie Murphy (1983 – 1991)

The 1980’s was an amazing time to be black & alive in Hollywood. The entertainment industry was going through a cultural shift, and television became a staple in nearly every American household. In an era full of celebrities at the zenith of their stardom, a young comic from New York emerged as it’s brightest. Eddie Murphy was comedy’s first big superstar. His predecessor, Richard Pryor, was frequently cast in many films, but Eddie Murphy took it to the next level.

Credited with single-handedly salvaging Saturday Night Live during Lorne Michaels’ hiatus, it was apparent to all that Eddie was a special talent. His stand-ups, Delirious and Raw, solidified him as a top-tier comedian, while blockbuster films like 48 Hrs, Beverly Hills Cop and Coming To America set him apart from the rest of his contemporaries.

Martin Lawrence (1992 – 1996)

Martin Lawrence was the first larger-than-life comic that embraced hip-hop culture, and vice versa. His delivery, style and in-your-face attitude exuded the culture, not to mention he was the first host of Russell Simmons’ Def Comedy Jam. His standout performances in the House Party films and Boomerang, whom Eddie was the leading man in, led to the creation of one of the greatest situational comedies of all time, Martin.

In similar fashion, the way Eddie dominated film, Martin put his stamp on television. His self-titled sitcom was one of FOX’s highest-rated shows during its golden age, and the program’s admiration has continued to grow due to its syndication throughout various platforms. Over 20 years after Martin’s final episode, the series is more popular now than it was during its initial run.

The Chris Period (1996 – 2002)

The late 90’s and early 2000’s belonged to two comics – Chris Tucker and Chris Rock. Both Chris’ represented the two facets of comedy; film and stage. While these comedians were hilarious in their own rights, Rock was a master of the stage and Tucker excelled on screen. During this timeframe, Chris Rock release superb specials Bring The Pain and Bigger & Blacker, and also winning an Primetime Emmy for his work as the host of The Chris Rock Show. On the other hand, Chris Tucker appeared in a string of critically-acclaimed, box-office winners; Friday and Dead Presidents, released in 1995, but Tucker didn’t become a household name until 1998, when he starred alongside Jackie Chan in the worldwide hit, Rush Hour.

Chris Rock continued his run as a host and stand-up connoisseur, while Chris Tucker reprised his role as Detective James Carter in Rush Hour 2 and 3, all of which grossed highly in movie theaters.

Dave Chappelle (2003 – 2006)

Out of all the comics on this list, Dave Chappelle is perhaps the most enigmatic. After abruptly leaving The Chappelle Show due to creative differences, he went on an almost 12-year hiatus from television and film, sporadically performing at smaller venues across the nation. The reasoning for him refusing to continue the show he created is still unclear to the public, but when The Chappelle Show ran on Comedy Central from 2003 – 2006, its impact was undeniable.

As far as stand up, many people felt that it wasn’t as strong as his show. However, in recent years Dave Chappelle has become today’s top comedian, and he focuses on a range of topics, such as racism, relationships, societal issues, politics, and pop culture.

Katt Williams (2006 – 2009)

Most geniuses are also troubled. Katt Williams’ reign over the comedy world could have possibly lasted longer, but he ended up getting in his own way. Addiction and criminal behavior were detrimental to his career, but when he was at the top of his game, Katt’s talent was second-to-none. Most comics are either better at stand-up or acting, but Katt was equally as effective in both. Friday After Next, Rebound, Norbit and First Sunday gave viewers a glimpse into his artistic genius; It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin’ and The Pimp Chronicles Pt. 1 remain popular choices in everyone’s movie rotation.

After brief stints in and out of prison, Katt Williams released Great America in 2018, exclusively on Netflix. He also made a cameo appearance in the critically-acclaimed Atlanta, which was met with favorable reviews. Due to his re-emergence in the comedy scene, Katt’s future looks bright, once again.

Kevin Hart (2009 – Present)

The lineage of transcendent comedians goes as follows: Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy and Kevin Hart. What separated these three comics from their contemporaries was not the comedic genius that they possessed, but their business sense. Richard made it a thing for comedians to headline movies, Eddie made it more profitable, and Kevin sent it into the stratosphere. He may not be the funniest comic on this list, but one could make the argument that he puts in the most work. Since 2009, Kevin Hart has appeared in 30 films, performed 5 stand-up specials as well as producing countless others. Like Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Katt Williams, Kevin maintains a close relationship with hip-hop, through the music and its artists. Kevin Hart is going on a decade of dominance and shows no signs of letting up. It will be interesting to see how he transitions into the next phase of his career, whatever that may be.

In conclusion, I want to acknowledge the legends that preceded these comedians, such as Dick Gregory and Redd Foxx (just to name a few); they were pivotal to laying the foundation for black comedy. The trials and tribulations of life can become an overwhelming burden on even the most positive of individuals; sometimes it’s good to love, live and laugh.

Laughter is the best medicine, and the aforementioned names on this list have provided that gift to millions for almost 40 years. That, ladies and gentlemen, is what you call black excellence.

Culinary Culture: The Real Milk & Honey [Restaurant Review]

Atlanta’s historic neighborhood of College Park has experienced a renaissance, so to speak, especially in the culinary field. Restaurants such as Nouveau, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and The Corner Grille have all added locations in the area, but one that particularly stands out is that of the Real Milk & Honey Café. The aesthetic of this eatery exudes nostalgia; with portraits of local legends posted throughout the restaurant and a soundtrack of 90’s R&B - what many consider to be the golden age of the genre. The culture of Atlanta has been one of opulence, and The Real Milk & Honey gives its customers a glamorous experience with a twist of southern hospitality.

After being greeted by an upbeat hostess, each customer is encouraged to capture this moment in time by taking a picture at The Real Milk & Honey’s “selfie” stand – an extravagant, well-lit phone holder positioned perfectly in order catch a beautiful backdrop of art, food and good times in your photo. A big hit with millennials, this location also serves as a popular spot for people of all ages. Its DJ, as well as the music selection showcases the variety of sounds that African-Americans have provided the world for decades.

These are some of the amenities that are available from this restaurant, founded by executive chef Sammy Davis and his business partner, Monique Rose. After working together in Atlanta, the duo opened their first Milk & Honey in Baltimore in 2016; and followed up the next year with a Cascade Road location with which they are no longer affiliated. Their second local endeavor, which they call the Real Milk & Honey to distinguish it from the still-existent Milk & Honey Restaurant at Cascade, is the third in a trio of black-owned restaurants that have sprung up on College Park's Main Street in recent years.

Being born and raised in the deep south, one can appreciate the unique items on the menu. The food selection contains entrees such as Crab Hash and the Chicken, Cheese & Egg Biscuit. The Award-Winning Shrimp & Grits puts a delectable spin on a staple when in comes to Atlanta culture. The dish contains jumbo shrimp, turkey sausage, tomatoes and scallions served over cheese grits and a Cajun cream sauce. The option to have your food infused with CBD is also available, a testament to the chef’s progressive state of mind when it comes to food and beverage service. The Vanilla & Cognac French Toast is also a favorite with many of the restaurant’s frequent visitors; a great brunch item to help take the edge off after a long and exhausting work week.

The combination of chicken and waffles has been a long-standing marriage in eateries across the United States; and Chef Sammy Davis’ creative style of cooking takes this meal to another level. His plate-sized Belgian waffle, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied with sweet peaches and a mint leaf, are served with a unique variety of proteins – specifically fried chicken, jerked chicken, or fried crab legs.

In eating at The Real Milk & Honey on multiple occasions, it is one of the few restaurants where I find it difficult to find a “go-to” meal. Each time, my taste buds are encouraged to try a different meal, because the food there is prepared to perfection. With the dishes being so amazing, and the location being so convenient, this restaurant (as with many that serves exceptional food) has one Achilles heel. Depending on the date and/or time that you decide to attend, the Real Milk & Honey normally comes with a lengthy wait, specifically on Saturdays and Sundays.

Like most things at this café, the food is visually pleasing and equally as delicious. The Real Milk & Honey is a great place to create new memories with friends and family, or just to unwind by yourself. If you are traveling through College Park, be sure to stop by this extravagant restaurant in a refreshingly quaint neighborhood.

THE REAL MILK & HONEY

Hours: 9AM – 5PM, Sunday - Tuesday and Thursday

            9AM – 11PM, Wednesday

            9AM – 8PM, Friday – Saturday

            3719 Main St., College Park. 404-458-5500, milknhoneycafe.com.

The Sweetest Thing: How 2 sisters merged health and flavor with their vegan baked goods company

Annually, the obesity rate in the United States continues to rise. With processed dishes being more accessible than ever, and a fast-food restaurant on every corner, it is getting more and more difficult to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, foods that are healthier, tend to be lacking in flavor, due to the absence of salt, butter, and other great-tasting ingredients. In an effort to solve the dilemma that continues to plague this country, Traci Janelle and Kelley Brianna of Two Dough Girls based in Atlanta, focus on creating delicious desserts and treats that are made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients to cater to their patron’s health and lifestyle needs.

Created in 2015, Two Dough Girls was birthed decades ago in the respective kitchens of their grandmother, mother, and aunt. “The women in our family were the reason we got into the culinary field.” Traci said of their company’s inception. “Allowing us to be in the kitchen while they were cooking, feeding off their enthusiasm and learning how much love and preparation was required to make our meals took our breath away.”

The fact that they were surrounded by amazing cooks, Traci and Kelley thought that a family-owned and operated eatery would be a great endeavor. Their mother, however, was retired and was not particularly fond of working again; but would offer support in any task that her daughters decided to pursue. She also raised them to be health-conscious, so naturally they wanted to do something different and bring a healthier spin to sweets. Kelley Briana stated that another objective was educate people on why they opted for natural dyes and cook with non-GMO, unbleached, organic ingredients. Through their baked goods, they have been able to bring people together and inspire them to live their highest quality of life by expressing instead of suppressing their creativity.

“We put a natural twist on traditional desserts. In trying to come up with unique ways to bake, we strive to make people more conscious about what they are eating, but at the same time we make it delicious. When you cook things, it can sometimes be difficult to maintain the balance of flavor and health.” Traci of Two Dough Girls says. “We’ve done years of testing and research, practicing and honing our craft until we reached a point where we could consistently put out a product that both tastes good and is good for you.”

An important quality that both Traci and Kelley possess is their perseverance. In building an upstart business from the ground up, they faced many trials and tribulations on multiple occasions. Outside of some financial restrictions, the stigma of not having a “real” job was also an obstacle that Two Dough Girls faced during the company’s infancy stages. “When we moved from Los Angeles to Atlanta, we kind of jumped right into it. We came with our family, so we had a bit of a support system and it allowed us to get our business off of the ground.” Traci said during an interview in 2018. “There is nothing wrong with working a 9 to 5, but certain things are for certain people. A lot of stress that comes in our lives is due to that job redundancy. We’re conditioned to think that is what you’re supposed to do, and if you don’t then you’re looked down upon and won’t be considered a productive member of society.”

Traci and Kelley of Two Dough Girls are striving to set themselves apart from other baking companies. They are helping to erase the myth that better ingredients mean less flavor, and why health should be just as important as taste. Their business has bonded communities and shown the youth that that higher education and working for someone else are not the only options for success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.twodoughgirls.com

• Phone: (404) 242-6784

• Instagram, Facebook & Twitter: TwoDoughGirls

"You So Crazy..."

For as long as I can remember, mental health has been taboo within my community – especially as it pertains to African-American men. I was always taught to “be a man,” and to never show emotion, no matter how much hurt I was feeling inside. Bottling up certain emotions for long periods can lead to them manifested in other, more toxic ways; and can also lead to negative health conditions. The mental trauma that people of color are subjected to in America is astounding. What is even more surprising is the lack of help that many of our people seek, due to the absence of resources, and even downright neglect.

Many factors contribute to this disheartening epidemic.

No one wants to feel like they’re crazy. Instead, we maintain a straight face while struggling with an immense amount of internal turmoil. In my situation, the emotional trauma that I faced as a child was not apparent to me until I became an adult. At the time, the death of my father only seemed like the loss of a parent. While still a significant event, its impact nearly destroyed all of my close connections with other women. The way that a child internalizes life events has always intrigued me. Only 9 years of age, I viewed my father’s passing as him “leaving” me, rather than accepting the reality of Leukemia slowly killing him. This led to my lifelong struggle of failed relationships, loved ones being taken for granted, and an absence of self-confidence, just to name a few.

The beginning of 2018 led to my “Saul” moment. Although I have always had a good heart, my reaction to certain emotional triggers would lead some to believe otherwise. In only a few months, I alienated a close friend, pushed away potential relationships, and betrayed the trust of one of the most important people in my life. After weeks of turmoil, I finally decided to seek the help that I had desperately needed for so many years – I went to my first therapy session.

For the most part, I’ve maintained a moderately healthy lifestyle throughout my adult years. As I aged, my physical well-being became more important to me. I tended to neglect my mental health in the process, as many of us do. My first therapy session was an eye-opening experience. I didn’t “find myself” as some people put it, but I did get a sense of the direction my life needed to go due to my experiences thus far. Of course, I will not fully delve into the specifics of my sessions, but it is pivotal that we unpack our thoughts from time to time. Whether it be by journaling, therapy, or any other positive coping mechanisms, peace of mind should be at the top of the list when it comes to priorities in life.

This essay is also therapeutic for me. Being able to share a part of my story is a direct result of my mental health sessions. I’ve become more open, transparent in emotion, vulnerable, and more trusting with my time and energy. Things aren’t perfect, but I’ve obtained a better quality of life in the past year or so. The most difficult part of having a high level of self-awareness is realizing your flaws, but its most beautiful is the journey towards true self-realization.

As with many things in life, stress or anxiety may rear its ugly head. Just know that there are many healthy avenues to explore on your quest for stability and a serene lifestyle.

My sincerest apologies for rambling. The random moments of mental stimulation that I have from time-to-time, I once thought was a flaw, but in actuality it was a part of what makes me, me. So, always live your truth, love yourself, be kind to others and learn to let go. Implementing only few of these on a daily basis will lead to a much better quality of existence.

Much love,

- Okla

"The Road Less Traveled..."

In 1994, my entire family traveled to Washington, DC, to witness my father, Okla Jones, II, being sworn in as a Federal Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana. It was one of the proudest moments of my life. Since then, my mother and I lost touch with my father’s side of the family. Outside of the occasional phone call or Facebook message, we really didn’t communicate with each other too often. For years we had been planning to visit the place that held so much history, and so many memories; but for various reasons, we weren’t able to commit to the trip – until now.

On the first weekend of December, my mother and I traveled to Natchitoches, Louisiana, in order to reconnect with my family and to attend the Festival of Lights Parade; but it became so much more. Our excursion to my father’s birthplace began on a rainy Friday afternoon. The entire day was cold and gloomy – a stark contrast to the warmth that we felt inside the home of my cousin Jameka, and my Aunt Yvonne. The conversation was filled with stories of the times that we spent together over 20 years ago, along with the realization that our lives had changed so much since the previous time that we had seen each other.

So many thoughts go through my mind whenever I interact with my father’s father – Henry Jones, Sr. He was a man who never said much, but he always commanded attention. The “thing” that many great leaders possess – an aura, so to speak – covers my grandfather from head to toe. On that damp Friday evening, my mother, aunt, cousin and I walked over to his home; and my anticipation had reached a level that I had never quite felt before. I always have a nervousness about seeing someone whom I haven’t seen in some time. “Are they still the same person?”, “How much have they changed physically?”, “What would they say about me?”, are some of the questions that I ask myself.  The amazing thing about this situation was that my grandfather hadn’t changed at all.

Although our reputations preceded each other, this also was my first time meeting my Daddy Henry’s current wife, Helen. She was a very compassionate woman; she was the one who opened the door and immediately embraced me. “I have heard so much about you, it feels so good to finally meet you,” she said with a smile. I was happy that he had found true love again, so many years after my grandmother had transitioned into the next life. After we sat down, my grandfather and I reminisced about the many basketball games we played in my backyard in New Orleans, LA. At 92 years old, his memory was still “sharp as a tack,” and his physical health was astounding. What I saw in him that day was the vision that I pray to have for myself one day. He is of sound mind and body, and consistently surrounded by people that genuinely love him. That, is my definition of true happiness.

As the night progressed, he told to me to retrieve a suitcase from one of the back rooms – and to my surprise, this suitcase contained history that could last several lifetimes. Vacations, obituaries, family functions; anything that you could imagine, my Daddy Henry had documentation of it. I continued to delve deeper into the photos, and the things that I saw brought tears to my eyes. He kept every newspaper clipping, interview and picture dealing with my father’s rise to prominence in the legal field. Every. Single. One. Many times, I forget how proud he was of his eldest son; I hope that my father is as proud of me as his father is of him.

December 1st, 2018.

The culmination of this entire trip coincided with the day of the Festival of Lights parade. After getting an early start and an amazing breakfast provided by my aunt and cousin, we traveled to downtown Natchitoches in order to set up shop for the oncoming parade. About an hour before we left the house, my father’s best friend and my Godfather, Alphonse Martin, texted my mother to tell her he was on Cane River for the weekend. I hadn’t seen my godfather in years, and he decided to come out the Natchitoches at the same time as we did. Fate, I tell you. Catching up with my father’s closest friend was both nostalgic and comforting. We had the rare opportunity to talk about old times and laugh about fond memories, all while enjoying the parade as it passed us by.

As a side note, it was here where I first learned about Clementine Hunter. She was a self-taught black folk artist from Natchitoches, who lived and worked on Melrose Plantation. She is the first African-American artist to have a solo exhibition at the present-day New Orleans Museum of Art. My mother is a huge supporter of her work, and it was refreshing to connect with her on yet another level. The gift shop, Plantation Treasures, contained some of her original work, as well as some of the paintings of her grandson. Clementine Hunter’s journey from slavery to prominence reminds me so much of my father. Although the extremes are entirely different, there are similar parallels in their ability to take humble beginnings and turn them into unbelievable successes.

The most captivating moment of the evening was its climax, the fireworks show right before the lighting of the city. Lasting about 30 minutes, the different emotions that I felt during this time were surreal - amazement, love, happiness and the feeling of being one with my fellow man. There were hundreds of people in attendance from all walks of life, but for some reason, while viewing those hypnotizing fireworks; I felt a oneness with them all. Even the people that weren’t there with me physically – lost loved ones, friends, etc. – I felt their presence, too. Being able to share that moment with the people that I love is something that I hope everyone can experience at least once in their lifetime.

Whether I realize it or not, Natchitoches is a large part of who I am. My calm demeanor in the face of immense adversity reminds me of the serene atmosphere of Northern Louisiana. My mother and I made a promise to ourselves and our family that we would never go that amount of time without visiting again. Family and love, two morals that have always been prevalent in my life, but reinvigorated by the events surrounding the weekend of December 1st. It was then where I vowed to never forget the things that are important in life, and you shouldn’t either.

- Okla

Welcome To Atlanta

“One for the money, yes sir, two for the show
A couple of years ago on Headland and Delowe
Was the start of something good
Where me and my nigga rode the MARTA, through the hood
Just tryna find that hook up…”

— 3 Stacks

During the conclusion of ATLANTA’s inaugural season, the show’s protagonist maneuvered through the city’s dimly lit streets as Outkast’s “Elevators” served as the backdrop. This particular song was perfect for the moment, because the lyrics that Andre and Big Boi wrote were about their past struggles, the journey of life and hope for the future – one that rang a tune for Earn, Paper Boi, and Darius. That final scene was symbolic of the transition that Earn (Donald Glover), was about to experience; and the uncertainty of the things to come. The highly-anticipated premiere of ATLANTA’s sophomore run happens tonight, and it has easily become one of our generation’s most important television series.

Throughout life, especially as a young black male, we experience moments of change; some of which are more drastic than others. The first day of a new school, puberty, going off to college, etc… but society teaches us that after a certain age, our lives should maintain some level of stability. However, many of us know that the previous sentence could not be further from the truth. After the age of 21 is when most of life’s trials and tribulations occur. I believe this is the source of the popularity for shows such as Insecure, Girls and Master of None. Instead of being the typical “coming-of-age” story about an adolescent trying to find their place in the world; ATLANTA focuses on the difficulties of being a young adult, dealing with the financial and emotional stress that comes with family, and that sense of urgency as you advance in age.

ATLANTA — Pictured: (l-r) Brian Tyree Henry as Alfred Miles, Keith Standfield as Darius, Donald Glover as Earnest Marks.

The second verse on “Elevators” captured the feeling of ATLANTA’s almost two-year hiatus. Big Boi raps about the nostalgia of growing up in the city. Even though it was a struggle, it created lasting memories and it helped him to appreciate success that much more. The freedom that he felt has a boy can be linked to the creative freedom that Donald Glover had in 2016. For many, ATLANTA’s first season had no expectation. It gave all parties involved the opportunity to create without any additional pressure from its audience or the media. Pressure can have either a positive or negative effect, depending on the individual. It can bust pipes, or make diamonds… only time will tell the affect that it will have on FX’s breakout series.

A wise man once told me that potential was the yardstick of failure.

Donald Glover and ATLANTA received acclaim from its viewers as well as its critics. The show won awards from the AFI, Critic’s Choice, the Golden Globes and even a couple of Primetime Emmys; so with its standard being heightened, its room for error has now decreased. I believe that the show’s group of writers and its cast are fully capable of exceeding expectations, but the “sophomore slump” can happen to anyone, or anything for that matter. The dichotomy between tonight’s premiere and ATLANTA’s storyline go hand and and hand because success is something that both Earnest Marks and Donald Glover are striving to achieve.

This new renaissance of shows isn’t only good for television, it’s good for our culture in general. Gone are the days when the heads of the establishment could lean on the fact that content produced, directed or acted by people of color wouldn’t be a priority because “our stories don’t translate to other races, genders or ethnicities.” Insecure, Master of None, The Chi and ATLANTA are all created and carried out by minorities; it is a testament to that fact that in the end, we all really aren’t that different.

Peace and love,

– Okla

"#NasIsLike: His Undeniable Influence On Hip-Hop..."

In many of the school yards, barbershops and recreational parks across America, a common topic of conversation is: “Who are some of the greatest emcees, ever?” Some people mention 2pac, others may say The Notorious B.I.G., but my personal favorite has always been Nasir Olu Bin Dara Jones, but more widely known as Nas. The aforementioned artist burst on the rap scene in 1991 on Main Source’s “Live At The Barbecue”. At only 17 years old, Nas recited the lyrics of a seasoned veteran with wisdom far beyond his years. Since then, he has experienced trials, tribulations and triumphs; but what one can never deny is Escobar’s influence on hip-hop, as well as its artists. 

“He had his own unique flow, which seemed to start the trend that we old-school emcees called the "off-beat conversational flow." Before Nas, every emcee focused on rhyming with a cadence that ultimately put the words that rhymed on beat with the snare drum. Nas created a style of rapping that was more conversational than ever before."  – Kool Moe Dee

Although his position in the “greatest of all-time” conversation fluctuates from time to time, Nas is considered as arguably the best lyricist to ever touch a microphone. His style has been categorized as introspective, enlightening and narrational. Also, many people fail to realize how extensive Nas’ catalog is; from penning classic albums such as IllMatic and StillMatic, he also had a hand in the soundtrack for the Netflix series The Get Down, as well as ghostwriting for Will Smith in the mid-90’s. His longevity, along with the quality of music that he has released over the years, can only be matched by only a handful of musicians; and that stands for all genres.

“Name a rapper that I ain't influence…” - Nas

Two of the greatest MCs in history had a highly publicized feud during the summer of 2001. The above quote is one of the more memorable bars from Nas’ “Ether”, the response track to Jay-Z’s “Takeover”. Even though that specific line was meant as a derogatory reference towards Shawn Carter and Roc-A-Fella Records, it also proved to be prophetic in many ways. Just as the legendary Rakim passed the torch to Nas, he eventually passed the torch to present-day lyricists J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. Both rappers continuously name Nas as one of their biggest influences, as well as attributing their focus on vivid storytelling to the tales heard on songs such as “One Love” and “Rewind”.

It is important to note that Nas’ influence reaches far beyond the music industry. In 2014, Nas partnered with job placement startup Koru to fund a scholarship for 10 college graduates to go through Koru's training program. He also is the majority owner of the HSTRY clothing line, as well as being the national spokesperson for Hennessy. Although Nas has many endeavors outside of hip-hop, we must always remember that all he ever needed was one mic.

#GangstaGrillz: A Coversation With DJ Drama & Don Cannon

The combination of DJ Drama and Don Cannon made a lasting impression on the music industry. From Drama’s Gangsta Grillz series, to Cannon’s flawless production for countless artists, these two men can honestly say that they capitalized on all the opportunities presented to them. On October 6th, the Toyota Music Ballroom was the site of the conversation with DJ Drama and Don Cannon, who spoke about their journey, the music business, and having to adjust to Southern culture.

Moderated by Maurice Garland and Branden “LSK” Peters, DJ Drama and Don Cannon exemplify the hip-hop story. Both natives of Philadelphia, these two men met in college at Atlanta’s AUC. Drama was already a DJ on the rise, while Cannon was a producer looking to get his music played for local artists. Don Cannon briefly discussed that his initial sound was reminiscent of DJ Premier, Q-Tip and J Dilla, so he had to adjust his music to fit the mood of the typical southern musician. Cannon was able to keep the same feel in terms of the melody; while rearranging the drum patterns to appeal to his new audience. From this transition, he came up with a style of his own, and it became popular not just in the south, but nationwide.

From the moment he moved from Philadelphia to Atlanta, DJ Drama said he appreciated the love he got, and how the south embraced a young DJ trying to make it in Georgia. Being from the east coast, Drama has always been a fan of the rapper’s rapper. With this being said, his primary focus as a DJ from day one was to showcase southern lyricists in order to show the rest of the world that top-tier lyricism existed below the Mason-Dixon line, not just the “crunk” sound that everyone was accustomed to. He established relationships with artists like Lil’ Wayne, T.I. and Killer Mike, all of whom are from southern states and rely heavily on their lyrics.

Both Drama and Cannon spoke about the evolution of the mixtape game, and how it’s changed from a person rapping over different beats to an unofficial album, so to speak. Artists have raised the bar when it comes to mixtapes, and it increases the level of competition in hip-hop. The transition from DJ/Producer to Music Executives are something that these two men are very proud of. Their marquee artist as of today is also a native of Philadelphia, Lil’ Uzi Vert. They elaborated on the process of promoting him, the criticism he receives, and the genius of his music.

DJ Drama and Don Cannon are like family. They’ve gone through everything you can imagine both in the music business, and as brothers. No matter how many arguments or disagreements they get into, they reiterated the fact that they will always be family, and nothing can change that.

#Spotlight: "Flockaland Seeks To Promote Postivity Through Fashion..."

Tialer Scott, also known as Flockaland, has made it her civic duty to promote positivity when and wherever she can. The New Jersey native of Haitian descent, created the Stay (+) clothing brand in order to create a contrast to the negativity that comes with everyday life.  Founded in 2013, this brand isn’t limited to just clothing. Tialer also does event planning and curation for Stay (+), which further pushes her message of positivity to the masses.

At this year’s A3C Festival & Conference, Tialer is slated to have a Pizza Party/Pop-Up shop at Edgewood Pizza that’s open to people of all ages. We were recently granted the opportunity to speak with Tialer about her brand, thoughts on being a female in the fashion industry, and her plans for the future.

With you being from New Jersey, do you feel that there is a difference between the fashion scenes on the east coast and Atlanta?

Yes, I do. I feel like it’s black Hollywood, but at the same time it has its own sense of fashion here. The East Coast on the other hand, mainly New York, is the fashion capitol. I’m not saying one is better than the other, but I feel like more statements are being made up there, then in trickles down to everywhere else. The East Coast sets off fashion, while Atlanta sets off music.

There is an oversaturation of designers and clothing lines in Atlanta, and Stay (+) has become one of the more popular brands in the city. What do you think makes your brand unique?

Initially, I wasn’t trying to make money or get rich quick, I just wanted to promote positivity. Also, in terms of promoting my brand, there was no shame to my game. A lot of people let their pride hold them back. I spoke to people, I networked and just tried my hardest to get the name out there. Patience was key in the beginning… I slowly but surely built my clientele into what it is today.

I've noticed the Stay (+) brand on a lot of notable people. How do you get your clothing on these athletes and entertainers?

Most of the people that I’ve gotten brand placements on, if they’re not from Atlanta, it’s probably my first time meeting them. I’ve recently had placements on Cardi B and Dave East, and they didn’t know a thing about my brand. It was the way I approached them, and how I presented myself to their management. Your reputation is everything in Atlanta. I can have the ugliest brand in the world, but if people are rocking with me, and how I present my brand, the product will always move.

Aside from the Stay (+) brand, you've done modeling, event planning and curation. Which one do you enjoy the most?

Modeling is my passion. I remember doing my first runway show in the 4th grade. I remember my entire outfit to the tee! *laughs* I love curating events, but its levels to it. All the events you’ve seen me do, I’ve done on my own. Modeling is my first love but event planning is something I love to do as well.

When you design your pieces and products, what feeling do you want people to have when they wear and see that Stay (+) logo?

I know it sounds cliché, but I just want people to feel positive, and to know that they can do anything that they want, and to know that the power is in their hands.

What was your initial inspiration to start a clothing line, and what keeps you inspired today?

Honestly, I was inspired by myself. I’ve been involved in Nursing since 2011, and I deal with people with dementia and special needs.  I’ve always loved Chemistry, and if you’re familiar with atoms you know that protons never interact with electrons, so that’s where I got (+) in my brand. Positivity should never be tainted by anything else.

Just like music, fashion is very "here today, gone tomorrow." How do you feel about the direction that fashion is headed?

I think its headed in a good direction. It’s starting to show a lot of individuality, and people have the opportunity to be who they want to be.

As with many things in this world, the fashion industry is male dominated. do you feel that you've run into certain obstacles in this business because you're an African-American female?

Yes! *laughs* In actuality, if you’re not Caucasian or a person of status, people look at you like: “who are you?” I’m literally going against the grain every day of my life. As black females, I feel that we’re not appreciated in all aspects, especially in the fashion and music industry. When we become successful, instead of heralding us, people look and think that we did something to compromise our integrity in order to get in the position that we are in.

Outside of the Stay (+) clothing line, do you see yourself expanding the brand into different endeavors in the future?

I definitely want to expand when it comes down to charity events, and partnering up with bigger companies. Stay (+) is more than just clothing, it’s a state of mind. Regardless of what I do in the future, I never want to limit my brand to just clothing, it is so much more than that.

With your event at A3C this year, what is your main goal? What do you want to take from this event, and what do you want other people to take away?

When people come to my events, I want them to know that they are in the midst of positivity. I want them to see what my brand stands for; what I stand for. They need to know that they can have a good time, and that they can be themselves.

For more information and updates on Flockaland and Stay (+), be sure to check out the website here.

#BlackHistoryMonth: The Birth Of A Nation?

In honor of Black History Month, my goal is to place emphasis on some of the contributions that African-Americans made towards the growth of this extremely flawed, but nonetheless great country of ours.

As a man of color, I learned at a very young age that the differences between me and people of a much lighter complexion go much farther than skin deep. From slavery, Jim Crow, to the oppression that has existed since the inception of the United States; it is obvious that this “system” has never failed us, because it wasn’t constructed to protect us in the first place.

The senseless killings of unarmed black men aren’t a part of some new phenomenon, because these crimes have been committed for hundreds of years, with the latter going unnoticed. The emergence of technology has allowed us to bring it to the forefront; thus, creating some form of sensitivity from the national media and people of other cultures to gaze upon our hurts that somewhat remain insignificant to the privileged-born. Regardless of how far we’ve come, we still have a very hard journey ahead of us. Not too long ago, African-Americans had little to no rights at all; and nothing before it displayed this fact more succinctly than The Birth Of A Nation.

“The bringing of the African to America planted the first seed of disunion.”

— D.W. Griffith, The Birth Of A Nation (1915)

On this date in 1915, D.W. Griffith released The Birth Of A Nation.

Many objective film critics have an extremely polarizing opinion about the film. On one hand, this film showcases the days of slavery and reconstruction as a happy and peaceful time in America. The depiction of the black men featured in the film was that of stupidity, manual labor, and an aggressive, hypersexual demeanor that was a danger to all society. However, at the time of its release, The Birth Of A Nation was seen as a cinematic masterpiece. Running for 3 hours, it was the first 12-reel film in the United States, and was frequently shown at galas, along with being the first motion picture to be screened inside the White House.

Due to the film’s popularity with many of the Caucasian inhabitants of the United States, it had a detrimental effect on the minority. After 1915, this film, along with the murder of Mary Phagan in Atlanta, it was used as a recruiting tool for the Ku Klux Klan’s resurgence in this country. The contrasts on how different people may view the same thing based on their experiences has always been an interesting thing to me. I guess that’s the beauty in art… whether good or bad, it’s all in the viewer’s perspective.

Yesterday, I watched Griffith’s The Birth Of A Nation in its entirety on YouTube. As many of us know, this story is the exact opposite of Nate Parker’s version of the same name. The portrayal of blacks in this film was appalling, but what it taught me was that not much has changed in terms of race relations in America today. Some of the laws have been shifted in order to give people of color some sense of humanity, but the mind state of many of the supporters of bigotry and prejudice remains unwavering. Long gone are the days of when racism was blatant; the white sheets and garments of the Ku Klux Klan have been replaced with expensive suits and elegant accessories.  Beware!

Black History Month is a time where we should praise African-Americans for overcoming the odds, and excelling in a place that was built for them to underachieve. We must also understand that our history had both positive and negative aspects. So, to focus on the good points alone would not properly do justice to the entire history of the black person in America. Our triumphs are inspirational, but our scars give us character. The good times may provide memories that lift our spirits, but it is how we overcome our lowest moments that make us who we are. I recommend each and every one of you to check out D.W. Griffith’s The Birth Of A Nation if you haven’t already. It really gives an insight on where we’ve come from, and where we may ultimately be headed.

Happy #BlackHistoryMonth,

- Okla

Everyday, A Star Is Born

“Grand opening, grand closing
God damn, your man Hov cracked the can open again
Who you gon’ find doper than him with no pen
Just draw off inspiration
Soon you gon’ see you can’t replace him
With cheap imitations for these generations…”

– Jay-Z, Encore

Even after Jay-Z’s first “official” retirement, these lyrics remained true.

For seven summers, he released multiple hits and classic material, giving his listeners the perfect balance of substance and entertainment in a way that no rapper after him has been able to replicate. During his 20-plus year career, there have been a handful of artists worthy of accepting the “torch”, but they were always missing something.

Eminem was present, but his output, as well as the quality of music he’s released recently, has declined as it has been able to line up with the times of evolvement. During the mid-to-late 2000’s, Lil’ Wayne also made a strong case for the best rapper alive; his delivery, punch lines and metaphors were second-to-none, but a large part of his music lacked the content needed to propel him past the other Mr. Carter. One can say that Drake has been the closest to Jay in terms of his consistency; even though he’s an amazing lyricist, many say that he’s shifted his sound more towards the pop genre and has focused less on music with the traditional hip-hop feel. Out of all the people who have touched the microphone since Reasonable Doubt; Hov has found the first suitable successor… and he goes by the name of Kendrick Lamar.

At the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, Jay-Z had a total of eight nominations, which led all artists. Unfortunately, he lost all categories that he was up for; four of which were awarded to Kendrick Lamar. This year’s Grammys was supposed to be Mr. Carter’s “swan song”, but I viewed it as an unofficial changing of the guard. That evening, Kendrick took home awards for “Best Rap Album”, “Best Rap Song”, “Best Rap Performance” and “Best Rap/Song Collaboration”, with Rihanna. All three of his studio releases have received high praise from fans and critics alike, as well as staying true to his craft. However, what sets him apart from his contemporaries (J. Cole, Drake), is his ability to merge lyricism with popular music, on top of receiving acclaim from those award academies that have eluded our culture for so long.

Since the release of Section.80 in 2011, Kendrick has had a DAMN. near flawless discography. With each of his projects, he has pushed the envelope, but are we honestly ready to call him the new king? Jay-Z has flirted with retirement since his return to releasing solo music in 2006; and some feel that his decision to keep making records was by choice, not by chance.

On The Blueprint 3’s “A Star Is Born”, Hov, like a sovereignty with the arduous decision between a progeny of worthy successors, asserted lines such as “Wayne scorching, I’ll applaud him; If he keep going, pass the torch to him…” and “Drake’s up next, see what he do with it”. The song also featured an up-and-coming young rapper from Fayetteville, North Carolina with the mark of merit; J. Cole has amassed a cult-like following and is also considered arguably the best lyricist in the game, today. He, along with Kendrick have solidified their positions at the top of the game in recent years, but the disparity in their latest albums caused a slight shift in the “…who’s better?” conversation, for many.

Hip-hop has really evolved as a culture. Although it has many facets, it’s heartbeat is the music. The sounds of hip-hop that we enjoyed in our formative years molded a lot of us into the people that we are today, and for almost 20 years, Shawn Carter reigned as it’s Caesar. Next winter, he will be a 50-year-old, father of three, so this would be as good a time as any to make the transition into a new era in rap.

In my opinion, the integrity of hip-hop was never seriously in question; because with every mumble-rapper with low quality records, there were also lyricists and artists who protected the purity of the music with their lives. This amazing genre will continue to grow with each passing year, and with Kendrick Lamar, I feel that it is in good hands.

Until next time,

– Okla

1998.

The year was 1998.

It was a time full of uncertainty; the world around us was shifting towards the digital age. With the turn of the century steadily approaching, little did we know that the way we consumed music was about to change, forever. In the years prior, we lost two of hip-hop’s brightest stars due to senseless, gun violence. The deaths of Tupac Shakur and Christopher Wallace left a gaping hole in our hearts, along with a huge void to fill in this still growing genre. 1998 proved to be one of the greatest years ever in hip-hop; as well as the beginning of its acceptance towards new regions and sounds.

Since it’s inception in the 1970’s, rap music was dominated by two regions – the East and the West. Groups such as The Geto Boys (Da Good, Da Bad & Da Ugly), UGK and 8Ball & MJG were prevalent, but there was an apparent lack of respect for most emcees below the Mason-Dixon Line until about the mid 90’s. OutKast’s win at the Source Awards in 1995 opened America’s eyes to the possibility of the existence of lyricism outside of New York or California; but it was in 1998 that we witnessed the explosion of the 3rd coast.

Master P, a resident of New Orleans, burst onto the national scene in 1997 with his sixth studio album, Ghetto D. The project topped the Billboard music charts, and his No Limit Records label flooded the market with a bevy of talent in ’98. Silkk The Shocker (Charge It 2 Da Game), Fiend (There’s One In Every Family), Mystikal (Ghetto Fabulous), Mia X and Snoop Dogg (just to name a few) all released albums during the calendar year. Cash Money Records’ Juvenile and The Big Tymers, also garnered widespread attention for their projects. In the fall, the aforementioned group, OutKast, presented to the world with what many people feel is one of the greatest albums ever to come out the south; Aquemini.  This record received widespread acclaim from critics, due to its experimental musicality and unique lyrical content. Aquemini was a testament to Andre’s words during that fateful night in ’95: “The South got something to say…”

The West coast was represented correctly in the midst of all this new and innovative music. Seasoned veterans such as Ice Cube, Nate Dogg, Mack 10, WC and Cypress Hill made their presence felt, while new comers like Xzibit, Kurupt (Kuruption!) and Daz Dillinger aimed to make albums that would solidify their place in California hip-hop history. The biggest story from the left coast in 1998, however, took place in New Orleans, Louisiana. After a tumultuous year with Death Row Records, the iconic Snoop Dogg was finally released from his contract and signed with No Limit Records. He dropped Da Game Is To Be Sold, Not To Be Told in the summer; which topped the Billboard 200, selling 520K in it’s first week.

The murder of The Notorious B.I.G. still remains a mystery, but in 1997 his death not only left the Big Apple questioning the future; sadly, the title for the “King of New York” was also left vacant. At the time, Jay-Z was making a strong case for that position; with Reasonable Doubt, In My Lifetime: Vol. 1, and 1998’s Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life. However, during an era that was controlled by catchy hooks and shiny suits, one man came and shook the game to its core… that man, was DMX. X (birth name Earl Simmons), released two number one albums in a seven-month span. He also starred in the cult classic, Belly, with the legendary Nas. Big Pun (Capital Punishment), The LOX (Money, Power & Respect), Cam’Ron (Confessions Of Fire) and N.O.R.E., also rose to prominence with their respective releases; each easing some of the pain caused by Biggie’s untimely death.

Even though 1998 was kind to many, it only belonged to one person. On the 25th of August, Lauryn Hill dropped her debut solo effort, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. This album broke both barriers and records; her first-week sales were the highest by any woman at the time, and her 10 Grammy nominations (5 awards) made her the first female to receive that many nods and wins. Her singles, “Doo Wop (That Thing)”, “Ex-Factor” and “Everything Is Everything”, were all huge hits, and only added to the popularity of the album, as well as the artist.

From the viewpoint of any millennial that lives in today’s fast-paced world, the 90’s seems like a time long ago. So much has changed since then, and the music industry has become a true reflection of that. Some of the popular artists of that time have faded into obscurity, and some aren’t with us at all. Regardless of how much time passes, nothing can take away from the memories that 1998 provided not just to hip-hop, but the world. Maybe one day, 20 years from now; some young journalist will construct a nostalgic post about 2018 and write about how much joy this year brought him/her…

…Or maybe not.

– Okla