Archive for the BKBOYEEZ ADVENTURES Category

BKBOYEEZ Adventure: Off To See THE WIZ…

THE WIZ at City Center

When I found out that the rumors were true, I couldn’t wait to see it for myself. There’s been a buzz going around the city about The Wiz returning to the stage, and I’m so grateful to have quite a few friends actually performing in this classic production. If anyone knows me well, they know The Wiz is my all-time favorite musical EVER! So I was ecstatic when I received word from KuTTy that our Boyee, Ryan- was able to finagle both of us Orchestra seats to the preview of the show. Although it was a gloomy Thursday evening, we eased on down to City Center to watch the magic unfold. Before I even get into it, I’ll begin with the all-star cast including: Grammy Award winning recording artist- Ashanti playing “Dorothy”, film & television star Orlando Jones playing “The Wiz”, Tony Award winner for The Color Purple- LaChanze playing “Aunt Em & Glinda (The Good Witch of the South)”, film & television star Dawnn Lewis playing “Addaperle (The Good Witch of the North)” and beloved television star Tichina Arnold playing “Evillene (The Wicked Witch of the West)”. Their presence alone was enough to keep me at the edge of my seat the entire night as I eagerly waited for each of them to grace the stage. The show was pretty good, and between you and me… Ashanti totally shocked me! She actually held her own hitting notes I didn’t think she was vocally capable of reaching. The Scarecrow, Tinman and Lion (played by Christian Dante White, Joshua Henry & James Monroe Iglehart) were mesmerizing and vocally captivating. But, the dancers, were the glue that kept the entire production flowing seamlessly. They were ON and their energy was out of this world. You know I’d love to dissect this entire performance, but I don’t want to ruin it for anyone. But I must say, it was touching to see an ALL BLACK cast doing the DAMN THING… and doin’ it well at that too! The production is only in town for a limited time and will conclude on July 5th, so I employ you to round up some kids or head out on a solo mission to see this amazing show. You’ll love it- I promise.

DRE.B.EZ

BKBOYEEZ Adventure: GRACE HATS Evening Under the Stars

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A few weeks ago, the BKBOYEEZ were invited to the GRACE Hats showroom in the Fashion District to culminate their week of successful trade shows at the Jacob Javitz Center. Upon exiting the elevator on their Penthouse level (nice touch!), guests were welcomed with flashing lights, rhythmic sounds of House music and a smorgasbord of great food and chill vibes. Trust me, they went IN & so did we! When I tell you there was truly something there for everyone- endless sushi, vegetable & cheese platters, cooked food prepared and served right in front of you and just the way you like it, every fresh fruit you could possibly imagine, tasty desserts and the event wouldn’t be complete without the friendly bartender who kept the wine & spirits coming. It was supposed to be a warm, intimate evening event under the stars, but Mother Nature wasn’t really feeling an outside event that particular night. Despite the gloomy weather and sporatic moments of rain, the event was forced indoors and we took every opportunity to work the room. The event was a success, and we were so happy to be a part of the festivities.

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From top to bottom: The Crew at GRACE Hats NY- Dan, Adanna, Maggie & Rachel

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BKBOYEEZ Adventure: Choreographers Canvas 2009

Last week I had the opportunity to not only attend but perform in the Choreographers Canvas 2009 showcase at the Hudson Guild Theater. It’s always dope to get up with my girl Svea Schneider who I think is one of the young emerging choreographers to watch. Her work is an interesting blend of breaking, locking, vogueing and house dance. Thrown in to the mix is a unique concert dance element created through great staging. Check out her piece WAITING starring Svea Schneider and Jamilia Hall.

Stay up and catch my swag
FaBid

BKBOYEEZ Adventure: Carnival Choreographer’s Ball

As much as I am all about Brooklyn- when duty calls no matter where it is, I answer. Today, duty called for FaBid and I to be correspondents for Idanz.net (an interactive site for dancers) at an annual event called Carnival Choreographer’s Ball at the famous Hiro Nightclub of the Maritime Hotel in the city. Carnival Choreographer’s Ball is an event where some of the most well-known industry choreographers and dancers, along with the hottest up & coming ones get together to put on a showcase that happens twice a year in the early Spring and late Fall. This is actually the second time the BKBOYEEZ have worked this event. The night is usually filled with good laughs, a couple drinks, and some exceptional performances. Everyone’s energy is on high and there are even some surprise celebrity guests who patronize the event as well. So I am preparing myself for an action packed night (even though I have to be at work at 9am). If you have nothing to do tonight and don’t mind spending a lil’ change to see some great performances, and of course chill with the BKBOYEEZ  then come out to Highline Ballroom!Be Blessed..KuTTy

BKBOYEEZ Adventure: Kush Lounge

Kush Lounge, LES

If you think the Lower East Side is jam-packed with shabby dive bars and performance venues for burgeoning artists and musicians, and is not remotely capable of producing any decent lounge areas- you are partially correct, but we would suggest getting out more. If you’re looking for a cool place with an unpretentious crowd of partygoers who share a similar nightlife agenda as you do: have a couple drinks, maybe some Appies & Tapas, and listen to a local DJ spin some sick tunes- then boy, do we have the place for you! On Christie Street between Rivington & Stanton, you’ll find this promising bud called Kush Lounge. This lounge has it all; it’s a groovy after hours spot with an Upper Manhattan feel right in the heart of LES. As you arrive to the entranceway of Kush, you’ll be greeted by the door staff that might initially seem like typical NYC asshole bouncers, but they are surprisingly really friendly [at least they were the night we were out]. As you walk into the dimly lit lounge, you can’t help but get lost [literally, it’s like a miniature maze inside!] in the many alcoves and designated VIP areas this Mediterranean hotspot offers. While you’re there, you might as well indulge in one of their specialty exotic drinks, which are enjoyable and are bound to put you in the right state of mind.

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WHISKEY FOR MY MEN… BEER FOR MY HORSES….

The BK Boyeez go EVERYWHERE & we’re up for any challenge! Even if that means we gotta travel all the way to New Jersey to see Country music singer, Toby Keith. Finally! We found some people who don’t mind drinking endlessly to celebrate the conclusion of another week, the mere fact of not having to work for the next two days, and Toby Keith’s Biggest & Baddest Tour. Cheers to that!!! All Access passes, huh? [Smile] You know we went straight backstage to meet members of the starting lineup which included Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts, Trailer Choir & Montgomery Gentry. Though most recording artists or up-and-coming stars have been rumored to be overly zealous pushovers, blinded by their own stardom, or just plain a**holes; luckily, this bunch didn’t possess those Hollywood traits. We truly experienced a fraction of their touring life thanks to the likes of Megan & Laura (two very significant individuals who work closely with Toby & his manager). They were nice enough to allow us into their personal living space (…yep, their tourbus…totally decked out with the fully stocked refrigerator and all!); their personal friendships (…yes again… we were at the exclusive concert afterparty to celebrate Becky from Carter’s Chord’s birthday). Happy Birthday Becky!!! The BK Boyeez, indeed, are everywhere! But back to the subject at hand, let’s just say that Toby Keith has earned himself a few more fans after tonight’s performance. We now have a newfound understanding for Country music, the deep meaning behind its lyrics, and a greater appreciation for Toby’s raspy yet soulful sound.

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21 Mercer: Opening of new Nike Sportswear Store

NIKE takes OVER the streets of NYC
NIKE Sportswear Store- Soho, NYC

Spike Lee Opening Night

So I got an invite to the opening of the new Nike sportswear store on 21 Mercer Street in Soho. Now for those who don’t know me I really enjoy food and if it weren’t for my DNA and my new health conscious attitude I would probably be like the rest of America. So with that said there were people walking around constantly with snacks, champagne flowing from the bar, great music bumping, not to mention the celebs.It was definitely the place to be that night. After the drinking, eating and mingling, we were ready to reveal what we had all been invited there for. Of course it had to be christened with a bad ass marching band followed by a few words from Spike Lee and some other guy I had no interest in because I was still in awe having just seen someone I looked up to for such a long time. My friend Simon and I waited for almost an hour to get into the store for a quick look around because the bouncers and staff were letting in the “priority people” such as: Q-tip, Veronica Webb, Gym Class Heroes lead singer Travis, Serena Williams, Lorenz Tate, Bill Bellamy, Anna Kournikova…to name a few in before us the B list.

TIGHTFinally in the store, the layout was OK nothing that I haven’t seen before, but the product was on point. Great ideas on color flowing right in line with the rest of Fall ‘08 season. Plus a new feature similar to Nike ID (the online sneaker customizing service) where you can, as explain to me by Nike sneaker designer Mau, design your own Air Force Ones. Now I have only ever owned one pair of Uptowns as we call them here in NYC but I would support this venture. Every little detail down to the specifics of what exact colors you want your soles, the thread, exclusive materials you can’t get online (they have elephant skin!), and you get to sit with a designer the whole time. This process takes about 3hrs and is only done by making an appointment; by the way, they only make 2 appointments on Sunday’s and Tuesday’s. So that’s 4 times a week that they will be giving this luxury service and you know that means there will be a waiting list. And did I forget to mention that this luxury service cost $820. Sounds like a lot but you’re basically designing your own sneaker that might even possibly be picked up by Nike for major distribution.So all in all, celebs, food, drinks, fashion and excitement describes my night to the T. More pics to come that were taken from our new corresponding photographer…so stay tuned.

Click here to find out more on Nike Sportswear.

Be blessed…KuTTy

Partay!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spry, Celebrity StylistLast Saturday I had the wonderful privilege to attend a white and gold Birthday soiree for celebrity stylist, Spry. As I arrived at the cute little spot, Origine, located at 71 Spring Street between Lafayette & Crosby in Soho, I was greeted by BET’s Alesha Renee. Renne looked DAMN GOOD in a white mini dress by Henri Picado. This girl is always on point thanks to the styling of our birthday boi.

As I was engulfed in the sea of partygoers, I couldn’t help but think how beautiful we were in white. No matter what size or shade, people of color wear some white…..Down………”U can’t tell me nuttin!” The decor (not worth going in on) was simplistic with the top level being a restaurant during the day which was a huge contrast from the lower level lounge. What really made it hottah, literally, were the wonderful array of people. The crowd was a successful blend of movers and shakers from designers (most notably: Melody Burns, who designed Spry’s ring, to stylist, models and photogs -you know the people who really make it happen) right alongside everyday folk who grind and make moves of other sorts.

Overall, a bomb nite which if you have been following the BKBOYEEZ you’d know we have a lot of. Origine has good drinks and for those ballers out there, the bottle service is on point. So do it up! The DJ was spinnin’ everything we could possibly want to hear. An overall success! Go ahead and pat yourself on the back Spry. By Golly Gee you’ve done it again! Read the rest of this entry »

Ohio

I spent this weekend in good ‘ole Cincinnati, Ohio doing, ‘I gotta make a living type of work.’ Not like you think, definitely. It’s nice to get out of town sometimes if even for a weekend. Didn’t really do much but chill in my hotel, eat at a local Mexican spot, and watch the Olympics(speaking of- did you catch the opening? Breathtakingly amazing!) I even got to walk across a bridge to step foot in Covington, Kentucky. The picture is of a random water fountain. I figured I needed to bring back a little bit of Ohio to you.

Be Blessed…KuTTy

Paying Our Dues in HARLEM

This year the annual Harlem Week celebration is taking time to acknowledge and pay tribute to Hip Hop and Rock pioneers Kool DJ Red Alert, Ralph McDaniels, and the undeniably & highly contraversial Jimi Hendrix. Unbeknown to most, Harlem Week it is a month long celebration of Harlem (of course) put on by the Harlem Chamber of Commerce including lots of free concerts, vendors, people, and festivities. I love the fact that they are honoring people from more than one genre of music becuase we (Black People) have our hands in making almost everything great. I remember being 5 or 6 listening to Kool DJ Red Alert on Hot 97 and hearing him say “Yea Boweeeeeeee (yeah boy the hip hop way).” And I cant forget watching video music box with Ralph McDaniels when I got home from school everyday- it was my MTV! Jimi Hendrix being one of the best electric guitarist ever, should have been honored years ago but I guess when a sex tape get surfaced, so does your famed greatness. You totally deserve it Jimi (wherever you are). KRS ONE will be one of the performers doing the tribute as well as the Black Rock Coalition.So if you have a chance or a free day on August 17 check out this event which is sure to be HOTTAH!

Click for more Harlem Week Info: http:////harlemweek.harlemdiscover.com/

Be Blessed…kuTTy

The Best Things In Life Are Free

The summer in NYC is all about FREE concerts! Our pockets and purses can attest that we’re in somewhat of a recession; therefore, it would be in our best interest to take advantage of some of our hard-earned tax dollars this city allocates for these concerts and attend FREE events. With that thought in mind, I proceeded to buy two slices of pizza & a bottle of water and started my journey over to the Bandshell in Prospect Park [entrance on Prospect Park West & 9th St]. After trekking for just over 30 minutes through the park while swatting off mosquitoes, I approached the Bandshell but it seemed as though everyone around me was in some sort of trance. Everyone’s eyes were fixed on the stage & overhead projector like moths to a flame, there was very little movement and as I walked closer to the stage, it all seemed to make sense — they were hypnotized by the genius of world-renowned music composer, Philip Glass. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the Philip Glass Ensemble, I’ll give you a brief rundown but do yourself a favor and get up on it!

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Nights like this I wish….

Amanda Diva- S.O.B.s, NYC

Original Painting by Amanda Diva

So last Thursday I featured a promo for Amanda Diva’s “Spectrum Funk” at none other than SOB’s. The day started for me at around noon, was in the city meeting, networking, and working. Time ran swiftly by me as I realized I was running late to meet with friends and head to the event. Got in a cab to try to reconcile for my lateness and left my camera in the cab (YES, I know). Anyhow, the event’s name describes the night well. Amanda did her thing performing one of my favorite songs “Windows over Harlem,” then brought to the stage Lydia Caesar who is phenomenal (Google her please), followed by the tight rhyming skills of James Watts, and I cannot forget about the exclusive treat with the debut of a collaboration by Amanda Diva and Johnny Polygon. Johnny is featured on “Black President,” one of the hot tracks on Nas’ untitled controversial new album. Ms.Diva & Polygon call themselves the Okay Maybe’s. They were hot or HOTTAH…had good stage chemistry and you can tell they relate well to one another. I am loving that a lot of the venues and events I have been attending has had not only performance art but also visual art and Amanda’s event carried on with this tradition. Some of the artist were Amanda herself, Pesu (dope A$$ artist… Google him please), and some others I didn’t get the names of, but admired equally. At the end of the event Amanda invited all the performers back on stage (plus anybody that was in the crowd that was an emcee or vocal artist) to all freestyle to an impromptu hook on a topic given by the audience.

Shout out to Amanda Diva for an innovative night that keep me from thinking about my camera riding around without me.

“Success. YES!”

Be blessed…KuTTy

A Nightmare

Where the incident happened.The time was 3:54 am Sunday morning. KuTTy, Dre and I were leaving Deco Lounge when we came across this fab location on Prince St. and West Broadway. It’s a zebra print building. I died!! Of course the first I thought was a photo shoot. So KuTTy and I began our shoot. Irresponsible me put my beloved Blackberry down on the steps so I could go in. I know… I know… After a few drinks my judgment was a little impaired. You know I didn’t realize that my phone was missing until we had already walked 10 blocks at snail speed. I raced back, black linen vest that I got from a shoot I styled earlier that day (thanks Rasheed!) blowing in the wind. I expected the phone to be gone. I was not disappointed. I was devastated and wanted to cry. I took some deep breaths and became proactive by posting a note with return info.

Here is where things took a turn for the worst. The fool who found my phone calls KuTTy the next morning and proceeds to attempt to extort money from me charging me $70 for the return of my phone. I would have totally paid, but he tried it! I was at a loss for words and pissed. I also recieved two messages from him on my phone leaving me his number 917 554 5134, but when I called him he denied calling me at all. Can you say crazy? He even had the audacity to accuse me of harassing him. Go figure!

CHECK LIST:

1. Crazy man that found my phone… NO HELP!
2. Phone company… NO HELP!
3. Police… NO HELP!

So, bottom line: Be more responsible than me. The upside: We found a new bomb location, and I get to christen a new Blackberry (a tear for my old one).

Bomb a** Night

THOR - LES, NYC

Thursday night we found ourselves at the hotel lounge, Thor, on the ground floor of the Hotel on Rivington to celebrate the birthday of our good friend, Mayte. While there we had the pleasure of running into Tara Reid. Reid shot to fame working on the “American Pie” movies, but she is better known for her wild nights and drunken antics. Looking fashionably disheveled, the Louis Vuitton scarf clad “star” was pleasant, sober and definitely maintaining that post-op weight. She took the time out to take pics and chat with fans.We ended our night at Libation located on Ludlow and Rivington. This Thursday night party thrown by our boys Voodoo Ray and Bam Bam is the sh*t. This three level hot spot was a great way to end the night. The third floor House room is the place to be though. This party is not for the wallflowers. Be ready to dance and enjoy the live artists commissioned to create works throughout the evening. Shout out to our girl, Amanda Diva who was doing her thing painting outside the venue. Overall, a goodnight.Happy Birthday Mayte!!!!!!!

[from left to right: KuTTy, Tara Reid, FaBid

What’s Your Social GPA?

Shyla-Vie Jenkins in a PUMA ad

BKBOYEEZ

 

Happy Birthday Shernita!

So just got home about 20 minutes ago and decided that I needed to get this night off my chest before I went to sleep. Of course, the BKBOYEEZ were at it again. Last night’s destination was one that neither FaBid or myself has been to before. Deco Lounge, located on 94 Leonard Street, was the venue for a surprise party for a good friend of mine- the talented, hard working, and always entertaining Shernita (if you don’t know her, trust me you will). We got there a little later than planned, nevertheless, we were enthused to celebrate with our homegirl. An old friend from high school was working the door for the night, and I was excited to see her for 2 reasons: Reason #1: it has been years & Reason #2: yes, you probably already guessed it- a possibility for a free entry. Well lesson learned there… it definitely has been years (LOL). Anyway we get inside, first person we see was the B-day girl, second thing seen was the crowd : ( and lastly, the less than luxurious atmosphere…so of course, to the bar (thanks Dre!)Hip-hop was blasting! Kanye’s “Good Life,” ‘I always had a passion for flashin’ was the line used to get into “Flashing Lights”(both songs off Kanye’s Grammy award winning album, Graduation). Do I need to say it was HOTTAH and got me partying a bit, but the general census of the night was: it was OK. Shernita looked great and so was the party (as usual).

But just when I thought this B- night couldn’t possibly upgrade to a hard B, on the train (yes, the train) on my way home I looked up and saw Shayla-Vie Jenkins (an old friend from a lil while back) in the new PUMA ad for the Fall/Winter season. She looked great! Come to find out, Shayla who is a dancer in Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company as well as the rest of the company were all featured in the ad. (Sidebar- Bill T. Jones is a Tony Award winning choreographer for Broadway’s Spring Awakening and creator of soon be Broadway show, the Fela Kuti project).

There is a lot more that went into our night but its 7:22 in the AM and I am tired.

Be Blessed…..KuTTy

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