@hautegirlfresh

That NEW New: Missy Elliot | "WTF" (Where They From) Featuring Pharrell Williams [VIDEO]

2015-11-12T16:21:00.000-05:00

Excuse my french, but I fucking Love Missy Elliot!!! Her new single "WTF" (Where They From)" featuring Pharrell Williams dropped today, along with a video that's so fucking ill...man, you just gotta see it!!!

Leave it to Missy to drop her first single in three years, and for the single to be classic Missy, right on time, and a futuristic flow, all at once! As per usual with a Missy track you will be overwhelmed by the beat, the rhymes and Missy's one of a kind style. And yea, the visual is an extra added shock to the system.

Missy's a real girls girl and I always know she's going to come correct with the hair, make-up, nails, styles, and choreography. What a time to be a Missy fan, I didn't know just how much I missed her music!

We The People! | Crime & Punishment Brewing Co.

2015-06-25T10:41:00.000-04:00

Mike Wambolt & Adam Fussaro at Crime & Punishment Brewing
Photos by Mercedes Jones

The City of Philadelphia has a strong constitution and the people that dwell in the city are no different. With a diverse array of cultures, ideals, experiences and a strong sense of pride, We The People! explores the stories of captivating Philadelphians.

One day I was on my usual trek through Brewerytown when I noticed some new construction, and since I'm nosy as hell I checked out the permits, and to my surprise there was construction being done for an actual brewery in Brewerytown. That was a year ago, and Crime & Punishment is scheduled to open in a few weeks, but things weren't as easy as they expected, peep their story here...

From Tub To Tank...
Six years ago Mike Wambolt was working as a commercial painter, painting white walls in commercial spaces day in and day out. Somewhere in between watching paint dry and reading Russian novels, Mike decided it was time to do something more meaningful with his life, and before you start thinking that he joined the Peace Corps, no..he started making beer!

Way before the lease was signed on the space in Brewerytown, Mike was making beer in his home. His home brewing set up consisted of some pots, pans, buckets and the drive to create a brew that he could enjoy himself and share with his friends. So, for a while Mike was painting walls during the day and making home brews at night. His friends took a liking to his brews and encouraged him to take it to the next level. Those friends were owners of the popular Fishtown eatery Pizza Brain (also opening in Brewerytown), where they let him showcase his brews a few nights a week. The brews went over well and put Mike in the position to secure some start up funding.

Now that he had some seed money Mike started taking things more seriously, and just a couple of weeks later he met Mike Paul, another home brewing enthusiast, with a passion for Stouts and Scotch Ales. Mike and Mike struck up a partnership, and from then on things started taking shape. At the time Mike W. was reading the novel Crime and Punishment, and that became the inspiration for the Russian themed brews, and with that the two went to work on crafting recipes for C&P's cleverly named line up of beers.

Crime & Punishment Paraphernalia

Mo' Money, Mo' Problems...
After striking up a partnership, Mike and Mike started brewing in Mike P.'s house, Mike P. had a fancier brewing system, and his house provided the space to make larger batches of their crafted brews, but after a while they decided to start looking at properties, and they started in Brewerytown, where Mike W. lives and the birthplace of Philly brewing.

Local developer and realty firm MM Partners showed them an old bike shop space on the 2700 block of West Girard Avenue--a once fledgling commercial corridor, now being revitalized by the firm. It wasn't your typical brewing space, but it was the largest space the guys thought they could work with, so they signed a lease and set up shop.

Editors Note/Sidebar: Brewerytown lies precariously between the city's Fairmount and Strawberry Mansion sections, and its resurrection could compare to the gentrification of Northern Liberties (sorry, but there's just no way of getting around the "G Word"). Crime & Punishment is just one of the handful of businesses that have opened in Brewerytown over the past few years, and the changes come with trepidation from some of the current--largely African American--residents, and with much zeal from the the occupying developers and realtors. I'm not going to get into the intricacies of the city's turf war, but I do want to set the scene for what's going on in that area. Feel free to check out the chatter about the changes for yourself. Now back to the story...

Located smack dab between a hair salon and an old church, the Crime & Punishment crew started construction in September of 2014, and with a bit of naivete, their plan was to open in a mere six months, but things didn't work out that smoothly. Their two floor space needed a lot of work. The first floor had to be rearranged to hold fermenting tanks, a complicated pumping system, new plumbing, special flooring and a new bathroom. The basement had to be cleared out and fitted with a walk-in refrigerator, sinks, and more plumbing.

Fermenting Tanks In The Rear Of Crime & Punishment's First Floor Space

Halfway through the process they realized they had to invest more money, and another investor was added to the mix, Scott Hatch--a chemical engineer and record label owner--came in with money to fund more construction work for the space.

Money was one thing, but the permitting process was a whole other headache. Throughout the construction process, Mike W. took on overseeing the paperwork for the project, as a way to save some money, and boy did he get himself into a lot of shit. "It seemed like for the first 2 months, everyday was trouble shooting, with no help from the city," says Mike W. He describes the process with frustration. "Everything has a turn around time of about a month." And when he told me that the Liquor Control Board only corresponds by US Postal service (aka Snail Mail), I almost fell off my chair. There was also a zoning hearing to worry about, which required the support of the neighborhood. Crime & Punishment took to the streets, and gained support from the community, which went over without a hitch, but a mix up with their zoning hearing delayed their opening for another two months. I mean damn, turning an old bike shop into a brewery is not for suckas, so if their resilience throughout the construction and zoning battle gives any insight to the groups longevity, then we'll be drinking Crime & Punishment brews for a long time.

What's On Tap...
So here the happy ending, on June 25th Crime & Punishment's zoning was approved and a grand opening is now scheduled for July 11th. And not surprisingly, the crew is up beat about their journey, and they are excited about offering the first Brewerytown brew in over twenty-five years.

They plan on keeping things simple, but when Kristen Snow and Daniel Grivjack gave me the run down of the menu, I was thinking it sounds pretty intense. They plan on reasonable pricing with small plate offerings of meat & cheeses, soups, salads, Perogies, dumplings and kielbasa sandwiches. All while tapping into the local market of produce and products. They are really excited about creating their own vibe and I think Brewerytown is ready for the change.

The atmosphere will be communal, with fifty pub style seats, which means if you go there you might have to sit with someone you don't know, so come with you community spirit, because your likely to make a new friend. Sidewalk seating will also be an option, but wait on that one, because that's yet another permit to apply for. But all in all Crime & Punishment's business model is pretty simple: make good beer and give customers a great experience. So, next time your in Brewerytown, stop in for a pint!

For more information on Crime & Punishment's grand opening, hours and menu click here to go to their site!

My Favorite Brew (So Far) Indecent Exposure - Single Hop Pale 5%

Legendary:Inside the House Ballroom Scene by Gerard Gaskin @ The African American Museum of Philadelphia (6/12-8/16)

2015-06-15T19:38:00.000-04:00

Flyers for Legendary at The African American Museum of Philadelphia (6/12-8/16)

The Reception
On Friday (June 12th) the African American Museum of Philadelphia welcomed a new exhibit to itsLegendary: Inside the House Ballroom Scene, showcasing works by Gerard Gaskin.
galleries called

The opening reception was like a Legends Ball, with an emotional speech by Mr. Gaskin, who expressed his gratitude to Lynne Honickman for honoring him with the Honickman First Book Prize, just days after his mother's passing, and much like his work, his speech touched the heart of all in attendance. The event was also well attended by members of the LGBTQ community including the family of the late Gloria Casarez, The City of Philadelphia's Director of LBTQ Activities Nellie Fitzpatrick. event planning group The Phirm, activist D'Ontace Keyes and director & choreographer Kemar Jewel.

Much like your average Ball, the ceremony ran long, was a little shady (the lights were out by the podium) and it was hot as fish grease. But lucky for us AAMP put out a lovely spread and there was voguing!

Members of the PHIRM with Nellie Fitzpatrick (Center) the City of Philadelphia's Director of LGBT Affairs

The Exhibit
The much anticipated exhibit is a new direction for the museum, who is admittedly trying to draw in new museum members. For years AAMP has acted as a venue space for events, and their art collections have taken a back seat.

Legendary is a stunning exhibit that features twenty-three images--which, are also featured in Gaskin's coffee table book by the same name-- and gives viewers a feel of the ball culture. The images range from the chaotic Ball runways and crowded judges table, to peaceful portraits that prominently display colorful and demur transgender men and women.

Legend captivates the eye with it's smoothed over roughness. Portraits of the ball scenes are a wonderland for the eyes, the boisterous scenes are frozen in time and every inch of the canvas is captivating subject matter. The portraits of the transgender men and women are a voyeur's dream, you'r made to stare straight into the face of the subject, struck by powerful poses and a voyeuristic curiosity.

Much like the famed movie Paris Is Burning, each images boldly displays the rights of passage of many African American and Latino men and women in the LGBTQ community. The images are flawless and there's no mistaking the bravado, and if you listen closely you can almost hear the screams "10's across the board!"

The Visuals

LGBTQ Activist D'Ontace Keyes and member of The PHIRM

AMMP CEO & President Patrica Wilson Aden and Gerard Gaskin

Director & Choreographer Kemar Jewel

Check out more pics on Facebook!

Haute Damn! | Lil Mama's "Sausage" [VIDEO]

2015-05-30T08:50:00.000-04:00

Wow, never thought I'd be geeking over music by Lil Mama, but here I am bugging over her new video "Sausage". Released exclusively through World Star Hip Hop, the young raptress unleashed a cavalcade of old school nuisances, fiery dance moves and saucy outfits, all while her hair and make-up were on fleek.

I mean damn, the video is a must see, check it out...

We The People! | Andre Andrews: Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream

2015-04-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

Andre Andrews of Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream
Photos by Mercedes Jones

The City of Philadelphia has a strong constitution and the people that dwell in the city are no different. With a diverse array of cultures, ideals, experiences and a strong sense of pride, We The People! explores the stories of captivating Philadelphians

A couple of weeks ago--during my usual route through ShopRite--I stumbled upon a interesting collection of ice cream flavors in the freezer section. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Sweet Potato Pie, Banana Pudding and Strawberry Shortcake flavors that were appropriately paired with the description "Southern Style." Being the ice cream lover that I am I inspected the packaging, looked over the ingredients, and surveyed the assortment of flavors. I liked what I saw and made a mental note to purchase a few when I was able to get them home without melting.

A week later I lucked up on a sample of Dre's Sweet Potato Pie Ice Cream, and I happily accepted the spoon sized sample and immediately devoured it. It was love at first taste, and I immediately made a u-turn for another sample. That day I took a few of the flavors home, where I scoped out the product and made arrangements to talk to the man behind the brand, and hear his story. When I sat down with Andre Andrews of Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream the following week I found out he was just as interesting as his product.

The Road to Rocky Road...

A West Philadelphia native, Andre grew up in a two parent household, with three siblings. He attended Overbrook High School, Penn State Abington--on a baseball scholarship--and finished at Bloomsburg University (coincidentally along with another frozen treat maker Salim Weldon of Whimsicle Popsicle) with a degree in Finance. After graduation Andre landed a job as an accountant with a Center City financial firm and tried his best to settle into a square job.

Not too long after starting his career Andre sought to balance his life with some humanitarian work, and submitted a request for time off to travel to South Africa for an eleven day mission trip with his church Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church. When his request was denied he made a big decision, he quit his job. I know what you're thinking "Who leaves a good job to do free work??" well to answer that question, Andre Andrews does. It turns out that during his senior year in college he purchased some rental properties, which created a financial foundation and supplemental income giving him the leverage to make this type of decision. And not for nothing Andre always had entrepreneurial aspirations, he knew he wouldn't have stayed at that financial firm for too long.

After his mission trip Andre started doing contract work with Autistic children, this gave him the freedom to travel, while still generating a sustainable income. He also continued to buy property, and obtained a Real Estate license, which gave him the ability to broker his own deals. At this point in our conversation I realized that Andre was no dummy (no disrespect to dummies), he grew his portfolio to an impressive fifteen properties in just four years. And get this, he still traveled the world doing humanitarian work, living in South Africa, and working in Nicaragua with Habitat For Humanity.

Stealing Second...

With one foot on first base, Andre was positioning to steal second. On the plane home from a trip to Nicaragua, he was trying to figure out what to do next, he truly wanted to work for himself and serve the community that he lived in. Somehow water ice came to mind. Andre felt that when it came to the frozen Philly favorite, his local community was being under served. There isn't a Rita's Water Ice on every corner, and if you ask me their prices aren't exactly affordable for everyday indulging. And since I'm interjecting my personal opinion I don't like corner store water ice, and I personally I get a little skeptical when I see people selling water ice on their porches. But I digress, Andre sensed that there was a need for a quality frozen treat, so instead of going out and buying buckets from someone else, he would make his own and distribute it directly to the customer.

Andre put together a business plan and set out to secure funding from local banks for the start up cost, but was denied. He admittedly was taken aback by the lack of support from banks, who happily take money from urban communities, but reluctantly give it back. No worries, Andre had his own money, so he moved ahead with his plan and bought the equipment he needed to get things going. He purchased a water ice mixer and a push cart, and that my friends was the start of it all.

For the next two summers Andre would spend all night mixing his flavors, and all day selling them. I tried to imagine how hard it had to be pushing a 100+ pound cart through the sweltering streets of West Philly, and when I asked him to give me some indication of how hard it was, he shrugged off the question, seemingly un-phased by the notion. "I wanted to gain the respect of my customer, so everyday I had to present the same product, if not better." And that's what he did, everyday he would make his way through his route, 56th & Market to 60th, and up 60th & Market, to 60th & Vine, selling water ice and pretzels along the way.

Once Andre got a handle on the water ice business, he started thinking about his next move, and this is where Brown's ShopRite enters the picture. Andre thought, why move the product to about a thousand people, when he could reach over five thousand people, in one place. He prepared and submitted a proposal to Brown's ShopRite and by June of 2014 Andre secured a sweet spot selling water ice in Brown's 52nd & Jefferson location.

Grandma's Prayers & Brown's Pies...

So, if you're anything like me you're really rooting for this guy by now, right?! And it seems as though there's no stopping Andre when he sets a plan in motion, because by the end of the Summer of 2014 Andre was looking to expand further into the frozen novelties business, and ice cream was a natural progression. Andre didn't know anything about the ice cream business, but he was excited by the challenge.

So it was game on, and with a plan and a awesome recipe for Sweet Potato Pie Ice Cream--that utilized the infamous Brown's ShopRite Sweet Potato Pie--Andre managed a run in with Mr. Brown, of Brown's ShopRite. During their meeting at a Back To School Rally, Andre told Mr. Brown about his Sweet Potato Pie Ice Cream, naturally Mr. Brown was interested and an official tasting was planned. "We love sweet potato pie and the southern life style it represents. He created a delicious ice cream version, that is a one of a kind creation," says Mr. Brown about his first time tasting the ice cream.

Andre was invited to Wakefern Foods (Brown's ShopRite's parent company) to present his product to a team of Wakefern execs and they all loved it! A deal was struck right then and there, and within six months--on Resurrection Sunday-- Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream was on ShopRite shelves, with a full line of six ice cream flavors, and an expansion of his water ice sales into another Brown's ShopRite location. "Andre has a tremendous passion for creating high quality desserts, with specialized flavors. He has taken that passion and energy and is building it into a business," says Mr. Brown.

So with that Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream makes it's way into homes across Philadelphia, and if Andre's story leading up to now is any indication, his ice cream will be making its way into homes across the country soon.

I myself am happy to support his endeavors. I believe Andre is driven man, and his work ethic is unparalleled, but there was something that he said towards the end of our conversation that really cemented my belief in his product, "I hustle for my last name, I hustle for my future kids, I hustle for the shoulders of my grandparents," he said quoting Damon Dash and adding "I'm here in ShopRite today, due to the prayers of my Grandparents."

To purchase Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Cream visit any of Brown's ShopRite stores, click here for a full list of locations.

#hautegirlfresh | Indego Bike Share Rolls Into Philly (4/23)

2015-04-23T20:44:00.001-04:00

A Few Of The Ride Indego Bikes That Are Available Throughout The CIty
Photos by Mercedes Jones

Indego has officially launched in Philly and it was a blast to participate in the official ride off.

The launch was seven years in the making and it didn't disappoint the hundreds of participants waiting to distribute a fraction of the "transportation system's" 1,257 bikes, to some of the 71 stations throughout the city.

I chose a short route, from the launch point at Eakins Oval to the Central Branch of the Free Library. The bikes are super easy to ride, and even though I know how to ride a bike, I was terrified to ride in traffic, because I haven't done so in years. Lucky for me I rode with a great group of pro's, and my trip went well. I can't wait to reserve a bike for a couple of hours and cruise around the city on a warm summer day!

Click Here to get more information on Indego, and learn how to sign up for a membership!

Check out the pics from my trip!

Now Playing | Brotherly Love In Theaters 4/24

2015-04-22T18:17:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to get a invitation to the Philadelphia viewing of Brotherly Love starring Keke Palmer and an assortment of famous, and not so famous co stars. Set in West Philadelphia, Keke Palmer plays the little sister to two older brothers: a street savvy hustler (Cory Hardict) and a high school basketball star (Quincy Brown).

The film is a thorny love story, that shows the ties that in bind urban families, friendships and rivalries. I loved the film and it was fun to see the slew of philebrities that popped up throughout the film.

Brotherly Love will be showing throughout the Philadelphia area, so make sure you support native Philadelphian and Director Jamal Hill. Here's a list of theaters in and around Philadelphia that will be showing the film, so go check it out!:

Neshaminy 24, Bensalem, PA
Burlington 20, Burlington, NJ
Cherry Hill 24, Cherry Hill, NJ
Hamilton 24, Hamilton, NJ
King of Prussia 15 & Imax, King of Prussia, PA
Riverview Plaza 17, Philadelphia, PA
Rave University 6, Philadelphia, PA
The Pearl 8, Philadelphia, PA
Grant Plaza 9, Philadelphia, PA
Plymouth Meeting 12, Plymouth Meeting, PA
Cinemark 16, Somerdale, NJ
Penn Cinema Riverfront 14 + Imax, Wilmington, DE
Brandywine Town Center 16

Click Here For A Full List Of Dates And Times

#hautegirlfresh | The Philadelphia Museum of Art - Represent: 200 Years of African American Art

2015-01-13T15:51:00.000-05:00

Represent: 200 Years of African American Art
at The Philadelphia Museum of Art January 10th - April 5th

On January 10th 2015, the Philadelphia Museum of Art opened its Honickman and Berman galleries to Represent: 200 Years of African American Art, a collection of thirty or so art works created by African American artist over a 200 year span.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA) has faced some scrutiny in the past for lacking art work that represents the African diaspora, and with thousands of paintings and artifacts, the void is blatantly obvious.

Years ago I worked security at the PMA, during it's fledgling Cezanne exhibit. As a young black woman with an interest in arts & culture, I passed the time--while posted in the galleries--by studying the artwork and memorizing the description placards. When I left the PMA to finish school, I left with a wealth of knowledge about the art world, and a deep love for the museum as a whole.

In those days the lack of representation was far more evident, and it was always awkward when visitors of color would ask me if there was any "Black Art" in the museum. I've never faulted the Philadelphia Museum of Art for not having a bounty of African American art, but seeing the beautifully detailed painting "Annunciation" by Henry Tanner hung in the back of the museum really bothered me.

Museum visitor and young daughter

"This exhibit is an important chapter in American art as we share the artistic African American stories that have woven the fabric of this country, " says Florcy Morriset, a member of the PMA's African American Collections Committee and Board Member of the African American Museum of Art. In recent years the museum has formed the African American Collections Committee to promote the collections of works by African American artists and engage members of the Philadelphia community. As a result the museum has been moving in a positive direction and this exhibit is long over due.

Seeing this collection so beautifully curated, gave me joy and seeing Henry Tanner's work prominently positioned on a wall of its own was a triumph that did not go unnoticed.

Me and Henry Tanner's Anunciation!

Represent: 200 Years of African American Art will be open for viewing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the Honickman and Berman Galleries, now thru April 5th. Join the organizers this Friday for Art After 5:Late Night Dance Party with Dj Rob Base and on Saturday for their Fundraising Gala.

To support this exhibit and purchase admission tickets in advance click here and for a full list of exhibit events click here.

*Update: The Fundraising Gala is now sold out

#hautegirlfresh | Two Snaps Up In A Circle For Empire!!

2015-01-09T12:14:00.000-05:00

The Empire Records Family

I'm really feeling the hit new drama Empire and my DVR is officially locked and loaded for every episode this season! I'm kind of surprised that I liked the show, I typically hate urban themed dramas, because I feel like they never get it right. Empire is not perfect, but it's as close as we are going to get. Not to mention it's a great distraction from reality TV.

I missed its Wednesday night debut, so I had to stay away from the press and social media chatter until I got a chance to watch it yesterday, and I was so blown away! The story lines, casting, music and costumes were all on point. I haven't been this jazzed up about a Fox Network show since In Living Color!

Empire is just enough of reality and just enough fantasy to make it interesting to watch, and I'm excited to see the stories unfold.

Check out Empire on Fox, Wednesdays at 9 Pm!

#hautegirlfresh | Rockers Closet Pop-Up Shop!

2015-01-07T17:39:00.001-05:00

Hey boo, I've joined forces with Rockers Closet and I'd like to cordially invite you to stop by their Pop Up shop at the Jed Williams Gallery at 615 Bainbridge Street, from Thursday to Sunday through January 22nd.

Rockers Closet specializes in chic & trendy--previously owned--garments for the low. And they are so clever at creating looks that are on trend. Stop by and pick up something cute!

See you there!

#hautegirlfresh: RED BULL | Canvas Cooler Project @ Arch Enemy (9/25)

2014-09-27T20:47:00.002-04:00

Red Bull's Canvas Cooler Project unveiling @ Arch Enemy Arts
Photos by Mercedes Jones

Red Bull Philly hosted a kick ass party this past Thursday, with 20 local artist competing to sell and display their art this December at Art Basel Week in Miami Beach, via Red Bull's Canvas Cooler Project.

The gallery was packed and with Red Bull supplying the libations and Sonny James & Matt Law on the 1's and 2's, the vibe was right.

With 20 distinct designs I thought it would be hard to pick a favorite, but I was so wrong. I fell in love with Jon Krauses's cooler design. Krause turned the canvas wrapped cube into a ominous scene, with grey-scale figures looming in front of a closed door, and on the other side, a man kneels to his demise. It was such an unexpected turn in the scheme and theme of the night. I couldn't stop staring at it and I caught several other attendees stopping and marveling at the haunting scene. And Krauses's technique for lighting blew me away.

Fan favorites Airrat and Disto took home the top prizes and will be heading to Miami this winter. And even though I gushed over Jon Krauses's piece, Airrat and Disto totally killed it. Airrat covered his cooler with carved and painted wood, where Disto came up with a picturesque rendering of the Philadelphia skyline and a etched eagle on the front door panel.

Canvas Cooler/Philly winner Airrat
Photo courtesy of Red Bull

And just for the record I totally called it, when I went to the preview this weekend and saw Airrat's piece, I said this looks like a winner!

Red Bull has a way with thinking outside the box, therefore separating themselves from other brands. What a way to break the monotony of the usual dance party and standing room only shows.

Check the pics...

#hautegirlfresh | 10 Things For The Ratchet To Do While All the UppityFolks Are At The Essence Music Festival

2014-07-03T11:30:00.001-04:00

1) Read A Book

Reading is fundamental, and since you'll probably have to avoid your friends posting pics on social media, you might want to dive into a good book to keep you distracted. Moby Dick might keep you busy!

2) Learn The National Black Anthem

When I was young, gifted and black we actually had to learn the national black anthem in school, now it seems they really don't teach these kids much about our heritage, if you missed the boat here's your opportunity to learn a song that will up lift and inspire the masses, and let me tell you it feels good to belt out the lyrics and put some church in it!! They'll be like that boy/girl can Saaaaaaaang!

3) Memorize A Maya Angelou Poem

The late great Maya Angelou was an inspiration to the black masses. In her lifetime she was one of the preeminent voices of our culture and she put our struggle into words, and into the minds of the majority. You want uppity black folks to think you have a little sense?? Try reciting a Maya Angelou poem straight from the dome!!

4) Watch A Black Sitcom

Uppity people grew up on black sitcoms. This weekend is the perfect time to dive into the world of 20th Century middle-class blackness!!

5) Brush Up On Your Black History

It's going to take more than knowing that we started the rap game to impress bougie folks, try expanding your mind with some not so average Black History facts that will impress your friends at your next tattoo party.

6) Visit Your Local Soul Food Restaurant

You gon' eat your cornbread?? Just looking at this picture makes my mouth water. While everyone is sampling the finest NO cuisine, I guess you may as well schlep to your local chicken shack for some deep fried whatever, with extra gravy!

7) Visit Your Local Black Church

Any opportunity to get your praise on is a blessing, so while everyone is at the EMF seeing the best of the best in praise dancing, saunter over to your nearest Black church for Friday service and get the holy ghost! Hallelujer!

8) Start A Soul Train Line

While everyone is getting their jig on at the festival's plethora of parties and concerts, you may as well have a little fun at home, and there is nothing more entertaining than a Soul Train line. Grab 10 of your friends and get down with the get down!!

9) Join A Fraternity or Sorority

Ohh chile, uppity black folks love them some Fraternities and Sororities! Now I realize this is the hardest task on the list, but if you complete this one, you're a shoe in!! So run down to your local HBCU, pick one of the Elite Eight and start the process. You'll be barking and cat calling in no time!

10) Stalk All The Goings On At Essence.com!

Now that your on the road to Uppityness, take some time to upgrade yourself, by religiously checking Essence.com for what's happening at this year's festival, and for god's sake, get a group of friends together and start planning for next year!!!

#typeAjawn: MANIc Monday | Nails Inspired by Aaliyah's "Rock The Boat" Video

2014-03-31T15:53:00.000-04:00

Rite Aid had a pretty awesome sale on NYC Nail Polish over the last couple of weeks and I took advantage of the deal and got 5 bottles from their Long Wear collection for only $.69 each! The candy colors are just what I needed, because I've been dreaming of warm weather, sun and the beautiful blue ocean at my feet.

I'm a sucker for a turquoise nail polish so when I saw NYC's Tudor City Teal I had to have it, and I quickly snatched up two bottles, along with complimenting colors Empire State Blue, Midtown Mimosa and French Tip White (not pictured).

When I gave the colors a test run, all on one hand, I immediately thought of Aaliyah's visually stunning video "Rock The Boat". Directed by Hype Williams, this video was filmed in 2001 at Marsh Harbour in the Bahamas. The video features the illustrious songbird in an ethereal light while basking in the sun, with the clear blue ocean behind her, just hours before her death.

This mani pays homage not only to nature's beauty, but the beauty of a true angel. RIP Aaliyah.

Groove to this mello jam and check out how I got the look...

NYC"s Tudor City Teal, Empire State Blue, Midtown Mimosa, Maybelline's Bold Gold, and Sally Hansen's Striper in White

#typeAjawn: MANIc Monday | My Grapefruit Manicure

2014-03-03T18:18:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the most delicious pink grapefruit, the segments were full of juice and with a sprinkle of sugar it made for the perfect breakfast.

I fell in love with the pink hues and used it as inspiration for this week's manicure.

To get the look I used my Birchbox sample of OPI' tinted top coat, Wet N' Wild's Wild Shine in "Sparkled", OPI's "Strawberry Margarita", Sally Hansen's textured Sugar Coat in "Sweetie", Cover Girl's "Silver Lining" and Sinful Color's "Peace N' Love".

Check it out!

#buycurious | 11 Awesome Wu Tang Items You Can Find On Etsy

2014-02-12T13:29:00.000-05:00

Due to #mywutangobsession, I am Wu-Tang everyday, but I thought I'd pull together this post for a little #wutangwednesday fun.

Check out these cool items I found on Etsy--the internet's one stop shop for artisan goods--that are inspired by the hip hop pioneer's unmistakable logo, and official monument in hip hop.

I want everything!

1) JadestoneJewelry - Wu Tang Forever Big Hoop Earrings

2) SokayDesigns - Wu Tang Nail Decals

3) RLGrafiks - Wu-Tang Wine Charms

4) JadeStoneJewelry - Protect Your Neck Wu Tang Necklace

5) Windfalljewelry - Handmade Wu Tang Ring

6) MynameisJZ -ODB News Print

7) BulletandBees - Floral n Lace Wu Tang Undies

8) MandalaMinds - Wu Banga Wu Tang Hand Painted Hat

9) Smashtransit - Raw Like Cocaine Tote

10) Noomyknits - ODB Embroidery Pattern

11) yabettasupadont - Wu Tang Pet Tag

#typeAjawn | MANIc Monday - Nails Inspired by Junior Mafia's "Player's Anthem"

2014-02-10T13:44:00.000-05:00

Who could forget the classic Biggie line "Caviar for breakfast, champagne bubble baths" in Junior Mafia's 90's hit, "Player's Anthem." I was in my freshman year of college and this song was heard throughout all the dorms, on the radio and at all the parties. And like so many other mid 90's urban girls, I idolized Lil Kim for her fearless swag, bold fashion sense and the way she commanded respect form all the male MC's.

I wanted to do something special for Valentine's Day and thought Biggie's line was a perfect way to tie together my Ciate Caviar Manicure, the last of my Maybelline's "Bold Gold", Sinful Color's "Time Off" and my striking new red called "An Old Flame" from Maybelline's Straight From The Shows Spring Collection.

Check out my look and rub ya tits of ya love hip hop!

#nowplaying: Oddisee - People Hear What They See

2014-01-31T19:44:00.000-05:00

A little while back I received an invite to a performance here in Philly that included Oddisee, but I slept on it. D'oh, I hate when that happens!

Today he popped up in my Pandora through the Surreal & The Sound Providers station and I was really feeling him, so I immediately checked his bio, liked, and switched to his station.

A new fan has been made, and it was totally organic, I love when that happens!

Check him out:

#typeAjawn | MANIc Monday - Nails Inspired by Nicki Minaj's "Pink Friday"

2014-01-27T19:35:00.001-05:00

Not only is Rite Aid stocking their shelves with Easter candy, they are setting up their new spring nail polish displays, and included a sale to boot. I couldn't resist the good prices, bright colors and full shelves, so I copped some avante garde colors--NYC's "Lafayette Pink", and Sinful Colors': Leather "Taupe It Off"--to pair up with some old goodies--OPI's Banana Bandanna, Sally Hansen Salon Effects' "Brattlesnake" and Sinful Art's "Peace In Love" and "Flower Girl" for this Pink Friday/Nicki Minaj inspired manicure.

Pink Friday is the title of Nicki Minaj's debut album, and I fell head over heels with the dynamic beats on a few of the albums choice tracks. It must be fun to have a persona like Nicki and dress in crazy styles and schemes. For what ever reason this funky mix of colors, prints and textures seems like something Ms. Minaj would wear on a dress down day, but for me it's funky, fun and my way of rushing Spring.

Take a look at my manicure and then rock out to some Nicki Minaj!

#hautegirlfresh | Things That Make My Heart Go Boom Bap: Phife Dawg "Dear Dilla"

2014-01-21T15:11:00.000-05:00

There are no words, just the emotion in this beautiful and profound song. Phife Dawg "Dear Dilla"...

#nowplaying | Lorde - Pure Heroine "Royals"

2014-01-16T15:13:00.000-05:00

I live for this little white girl, could she BE anymore intoxicating? Ironically she gives me a warm rush of euphoria just like the ones the junkies talk about on Intervention. Luv her!!

Check out what I'm listening too...

#typeAjawn | Beauty - MANIc Monday - Nails Inspired by Kanye West's Gold Digger

2014-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Here's my latest DIY Manicure inspired by Kanye West's Gold Digger, the tongue in cheek, hit single off of his sophomore album Late Registration.

I got a little crazy and mixed texture and color with Maybelline's Color Show-Gilded Rose (Brocade Collection), Wet N' Wild's-Ebony Loves Chris, and Maybelline's Color Show-Bold Gold (Metallic Collection) and left overs from Maybelline's Fashion Prints/Nail Stickers - Golden Distress.

I hope it last forever, now rock out to some Yeezy!

#getitgirl: Rite Aid Clearance - 75% off Sally Hansen's Holiday Glam Pack

2014-01-12T18:26:00.001-05:00

Sally Hansen's Holiday Glam Pack

I totally came up today at Rite Aid. Their Christmas binge was in full effect and Christmas items, including decorations, candy and gift sets were ripe for the picking, at 75% off.

I couldn't help myself and ferociously dug through the bargains and found a seriously good deal on this Sally Hansen Holiday Glam Pack, which included (3) magnetic polishes (retail $9.99 ea), (2) Nail Effects nail strip sets (retail $9.79 ea) and (1) Medium Sally Hansen Nail File (retail $1.50 ea) all for $2.50!

Girl, run down to your local Rite Aid to see what's left!!

#hautegirlfresh | If Only For One Night - 5 Reasons Why The Illadelph Xperiment Is What Philly Needs

2014-01-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Illadelph Experiment | Friday, January 17th | 10 PM- 3:30 AM
@Trilogy NightClub

1)Because We've Said Goodbye To So Many Cool Places
It's been pretty rough for us party goers in Philly, we said goodbye to more of our favorite spots, Fluid and The Blockley, went bye in 2013, and local promoters must be feeling the strain to be creative with the few venues that are left. The Illadelph Experiment is a refreshing turn of events and with 3 floors, and 11 DJ's the experiment will result in an exciting and ever evolving night of partying.

2. Because Back In The Day This is How We Partied and It Was Fun!
Back in the 90's when I was a young jawn alot of the clubs were in old factories throughout the city. Multi-level/room clubs like Gotham, Vegas Nights, Palmers, Pedro Gunn and Brave New World (I know there are more, but I cannot name them all) offered the space for large scale parties and plenty of room to dance, chill, drink and socialize without getting caught up in a sweat box. The tightness of today's parties makes for great pictures and bragging rights, but as a patron I am turned off by the thought of being stuck in a corner, because if I move I'll never find a comfortable spot again.

3. Because Philly Needs To Lighten Up
Let's face it, living in a city where the taxes and the crime rate are high; there's public transportation anarchy; and being scared to walk down the street with a cell phone can cause tightness in your chest and give you hyper tension like James on Good Times. A little partying eases up the tension. Not to mention, a multi-genre party has the tendency to bring out people of all cultures, and it's time we became a little more unified here in this city.

4. Because Multi-Genre Parties Are The Way To Go
When it comes to nightlife, we live in a small city. If there are 3 or more prominent party promoters giving a party on one night, the city is completely divided, and we all go to our separate corners of the city, just to Facebook and Instagram each other what we are missing. The Illadelph Experiment will give us the much needed opportunity to have all the debauchery under one roof.

5. Because It's Gonna Be Fucking Awesome!
Doors open at 10 PM and the party goes to 3:30 AM. It's $10 to get turnt up early and $20 to make an entrance (after 11). The party takes place at Trilogy Night Club (6th & Spring Garden), and things are little bit different this time so, Invite Your Friends Here and RSVP Here!

#MusicNotes | Ganou - Catharsis

2013-12-19T12:28:00.000-05:00

Ganou | Catharsis

Ganou is a French born vocalist/producer who doesn't go one moment without jamming to the beat of her own soundtrack and with her new release Catharsis, she's hoping to give you the chance to experience life through her ears.

Currently residing in Philadelphia, Ganou will be performing at Art Sanctuary, for the release of her new EP on December 27th.

The album definitely transports you to a different vibe and songs like the chilled out cover of Andre 3000's "Hey Ya" and the equally mellow groove "My Tempo" makes it worth the download.

Check it out...

#repost | Essence.Com "Digital Diva" Feature!

2013-12-18T08:20:00.000-05:00

Hey friends, check this out, I am so excited to be featured on Essence.com for their Digital Diva web series. Essence features sisters who love and have mastered digital technology, and I am extremely honored to have a spotlight on my endeavors in media. Check it out!

A Day in the Life of a Digital Diva: Mercedes Jones