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Danielle Niecey

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National Geographic Hosts  “A Night Of Story Telling” 

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: General atmosphere at the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

Wednesday, October 18th, 2023. Hall des Lumieres, Manhattan, New York. — National Geographic, the editorial brand whose legacy is drenched in 135 years of vivid storytelling and exploration, hosted an inspirational gathering to celebrate its renowned explorers, which include a group of bright photographers, scientists, journalists, educators, producers and broad ranges of talent that share their journeys through documentaries at the Hall des Lumieres. The Hall opened its stunning doors to media press, influencers and explorers of the National Geographic family to host “A Night Of Storytelling’‘, an intimate content showcase sharing films and stories across a wide range of genres that include travel, adventure, exploration, science, history, culture, wildlife and much more. The content showcase, featured films to be aired in the coming months. National Geographic and its iconic yellow rectangle is synonymous with groundbreaking research, incomparable journalism and visually spectacular storytelling through pens, lenses of photography and film. Their award winning works are world renowned, taking its viewers into spaces and on journeys that would otherwise be inaccessible. Their trusted name has landed them the spot as the #1 brand on Instagram, further echoing the strength of its legacy. National Geographic credits its success to creating a platform that highlights transparency in storytelling that is only made possible by garnering the best photographers, explorers and creative talents in the world.

 

The event began with generous offerings of hors d’oeuvres and beverages of refreshing sparkling water, wine and champagne to sip as guests mingled on the ground level of the hall. Low lit and encapsulating, the ground level was illuminated with luminous hues of blue and ornamented a backdrop of transitioning images of wildlife. The space held a relaxing ambiance, preparing the guests for the main event upstairs. Upon entering, I checked in with the event hosts, placing my order for a choice of three available entrees: the Seared Atlantic Cod, served with fall Market vegetables, Marble potatoes and aioli and lemon Pistou; a Truffled Fall Orecchiette, the vegan dish, complemented with roasted butternut squash, shiitake, leeks and crispy sage; or the Grilled Filet, which was my preferred choice of the three and served with a side of rosti stuffed spinach, and red beet soubise. 

After moments of mingling,  the guests were escorted upstairs in small waves and led into the marble showroom floor.  We welcomed by iridescent lights that projected waterfalls and cascaded behind the podium, and two extra long banquet tables, dressed with a white tablecloth, silverware, crystal wine glasses and dining ware. The two banquet tables were separated by foliage that ran parallel to one another, awaiting guests to be seated at their designated spaces. Once seated the media guests and the Nat Geo explorers, both nominated and award winning, sat interwoven at the tables and took the opportunity to share their respective up and coming documentaries. 

I had the honor of dining beside Dr. Serena McCalla of “Science Fair: The Series”. Dr. Serena McCalla, ecstatic about her involvement with Nat Geo as a newly named explorer, gushed sharing her background and her excitement for the impact her work makes on education and her students. McCalla dedicates her life to advancing science education and research with the most promising youth in the world and has built the Jericho, New York, High School Science Research curriculum into one of the most preeminent science research programs globally. Her career in research education led her to founding the iResearch Corporation (iRC), a corporation that promotes excellence, inquiry and equity in science. The iRC encompasses a variety of research-centric programs that seek to unlock the potential in every science teacher and student while promoting scientific prowess in underserved communities. Dr. McCalla’s students are lauded annually for their success in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) competitions, as displayed in the National Geographic feature documentary “Science Fair” and the all-new upcoming series. McCalla aspires to support all students to make a difference by discovering something new within themselves and the world. “Science Fair: The Series” which has been nominated and won the Emmy and Peabody awards and premieres Dec. 10 on National Geographic; Dec. 11 on Disney+ and Hulu.

 

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic Content attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

The opening remarks of the evening were held by Nat Geo’s President Courteney Monroe whose powerful statement reminded us all of the importance of our work and responsibility as media professionals and individuals. She inspired us to be mindful of our impact in our messages in the media and to remain vigilant in expressing the truth of what we offer to our readers and viewers alike, 

 

“We are without question living in an extraordinary time. A time when factual accuracy and credibility in media have never been more essential. A time when optimism feels in short supply.” Monroe continues on to add, “It is in times like these that I believe National Geographic’s storytelling is more vital than ever. It contextualizes the complexities we face and it reminds us that the world is still an amazing and miraculous place, filled with beauty, awe and wonder… [tonight] we celebrate that storytelling and the power of National Geographic,” and with those words a night of storytelling began.

The presentation of Nat Geo’s, “A Night Of Storytelling,” was led by the National Geographic Executive team which included Nathan Lump, Senior Vice President and Editor In Chief; Tom McDonald, Executive Vice President of Global and Unscripted Content and Senior Vice President of Inclusive Content and Engagement, Karen Greenfield; along with Executive Vice President of Scripted and Documentary Films, Carolyn Bernstein.

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Nathan Lump, SVP, Editor in Chief, National Geographic attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

In between presentations, guest were appetizers of Crudite (heirloom carrots, red endives, Romanesco, watermelon radish and dried figs); spreads of Pine nut hummus, Cilantro Tahini, Fennel Chutney and garlic oil toasted baguettes and grilled Naan bread along with refreshing little Gem & blood Orange salads. Choice wines included Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur, J.L. Chave Selection (Rhone Valley) and Sauvignon Blanc Lieu Dit (California).

 

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Peggy Simpson attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

Centered primarily on the 2023-2024 Fall/Winter slate and show lineups, the showcase included notable documentaries that piqued many of the guests’ interest, such as the Disney and Pixar inspired, “A Real Bug’s Life” (premiering on Disney+ Jan. 24) narrated by Awkwfina. The film takes an introspective look into nine different micro bug worlds around the globe and the tiny heroines that survive through their own miniature catastrophic scales they likely deem as “forces of nature” to survive day to day life.  Other films included “QUEENS” (premiering March 4 on National Geographic; March 5 on Disney+ and Hulu) is Produced and Directed by Faith Musembi and narrated by Actress, Angela Bassett, is a documentary that features matriarchies and female leaders around the world to tell a story of sacrifice and resilience but also of friendship and love. “QUEENS” brings the natural world into focus through the female lens for the very first time. The seven-part series leverages cutting-edge technology to reveal surprising insights into how females in the natural world rise to power. The final episode of the series celebrates the women who have gone to the ends of the Earth and dedicated their lives to documenting and protecting animal queens found in nature. 

“Photography” a documentary centered around notable photographers  Cristina Mittermeier, Paul Nicklen, Dan Winters, Campbell Addy, Krystle Wright, Muhammed Muheisen and Anand Varma highlight the skilled visual artists who became renowned photographers and their life journeys that led to the inspiration behind their artistic medium. I was tipped by a fellow media professional in attendance  to look more into London based photographer, Campbell Addy whose work and narratives highlights the expression of authentic emotions found in nature and casting underrepresented faces. I later became equally intrigued with Anand Varma’s work, whose photobook was given to the guests as gifts upon departure. More films showcased that stirred the crowd included “A Blink of An Eye”, “JFK”, Ceasar Milian’s, “Better Human, Better Dog”, and “Genius: MLK/X”, 

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Gina Prince- Bythewood and Reggie Rock- Bythewood attend the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

created by multi-hyphenate Reggie Rock, explores the formative years, pioneering accomplishments and dueling philosophies of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. The showrunner of Apple TV+ series, “Swagger” holds notable credits include, “A Different World”, “Get On The Bus” and the film “Notorious” about famed lyricist Christopher Wallace whose life ended tragically in 1997. 

Another notable explorer being honored  at the event was the empathic Albert Lin of, “Lost Cities Revealed” sat adjacent of me and Serena McCalla. I had the pleasure of speaking one on one with the explorer post presentation. Lin takes a technologist’s approach to uncover humanity’s stories and explores new frontiers while honoring the artifacts and environment of the landscapes he explores. Passionate about the human experience, Lin began his career with the Valley of the Khans project, a technology-enabled search for Genghis Khan’s tomb. What makes his work spectacular is that Lin utilizes tools such as satellite imagery, crowdsourcing engines, machine learning, drones, and ground-penetrating radar permitted to search widely for archaeological sites while respecting the traditional beliefs of local Indigenous peoples. His ethical approach has also led him to survey the the First Emperor’s tomb in China and the Mayan Temples of Northern Guatemala. Lin is featured in the up and coming new season, “Lost Cities Revealed” premiering November 23, 2023

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Mariana Van Zeller attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

Last and  certainly not least in the up and coming series, “TRAFFICKED WITH MARIANA VAN ZELLER” (Muck Media) Premieres January 17, 2024, on National Geographic; and January 18, 2024 on Hulu. I had the brief honor of meeting and photographing with the Emmy Award-nominated series host and creator Mariana van Zeller . In “TRAFFICKED,” the courageous journalist takes her viewers on an investigative and dangerous journey, exposing the inner workings of shadow markets, criminal organizations and trafficking networks around the world. In the upcoming season, the  award-winning journalist Mariana van Zeller investigates new emerging underworlds: the trade in body parts, hired assassins, sextortion and the smuggling of people across the U.S. – Mexico border; and  she will meet the players and learn the business behind the dark underworlds. Mariana puts her life at risk to better understand these multi trillion-dollar shadow industries and economies and the people behind them. 

The evening closed with bite sized desserts choices of fresh fruit tartlets, pumpkin cheese cake bites, turtle brownies, and mini chocolate cookies; and an after dinner drink of Espresso Martinis (Vodka, Kahlua and simple syrup).  Guest left with logo branded gift bags from National Geographic that included an illustrated story of the life of the late John Chaus, a young American missionary, killed on a remote island in North Sentinel Island; SPACE, a special Issue of National Geographic, released October 2023; an enormous 365 page photo-book, “INVISIBLE WONDERS (Photographs of the Hidden World)” by Ananad Varma (of Nat Geo’s original film, “Photography”);  and a Home Pod mini, compliments of Apple and Nat Geo.

NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: (L-R) David E. Miller, EVP & General Manager, National Geographic, Carolyn Bernstein, Executive Vice President, Global Scripted Content and Documentary Films at National Geographic, Nathan Lump, SVP, Editor in Chief, National Geographic, Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic Content, Karen Greenfield, Senior Vice President of Content, Diversity and Inclusion, and Tom McDonald, EVP Global Factual & Unscripted, National Geographic attend the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)

The most impressive part about the evening was the very idea of the Executive board celebrating their talents and the work they all produced. Not only were the explorers all in solidarity about their joys, respect, admiration and thrilled with the opportunity to work for and with National Geographic as a platform; it speaks volumes in a professional work setting where the human capital that makes a company great, tend to go unnoticed. I have gained so much respect for this brand and organization based on this display of humility and the gratitude leadership has shown for the hands that move this publication and the celebration from Nat Geo leadership than any program or award the platform could ever air. I highly encourage you to tune in and follow this remarkable brand. They are, behind the scenes, everything they present to the world: richness, array of color, depth, substance, appreciation and an ever evolving story that moves our world forward. 

 

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EventsFeatured

CULTURE Con NYC 2023: Day Two, An Immersive Approach

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Imani Ellis, Cam Kirk, Brittney Escovedo and Luke Lawal Jr. speak on stage during CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Sunday, October 8, 2023. Duggal Greenhouse, Brooklyn, New York. —In the spirit of Culture Con, on day two, I thought I would take a more immersive approach to experiencing the conference and the people, businesses and influencers that give shape to this BIPOC (black and indigenous people of color) artistic cultural movement. If you are just reading this article for the first time and missed the first installment “Culture Con, 2023: Day 1”, the 2-day event was created in 2019 by, The Creative Collective,  a community organization made for black and brown creatives. Culture Con was created to celebrate change makers and culture shifters in the BIPOC community. 

The conference has since grown in its offering, now including a Creative Career Job Fair that included companies: Amazon Studios, Clinique, Max, NBCUniversal, Google, Walmart, Shea Moisture, and Kickstarter; along with a seminar that offers industry insights to aspiring young black and brown professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, techs, and so much more. The panels are designed to shine a light on potential professional and lifestyle pathways for the historically disenfranchised artistic community; encouraging them to build wealth, community and to utilize the resources within their arsenal. The panels also serve as a means to combat ‘gatekeeping’ a willful act or tendency of withholding essential resources and insights to our fellow brothers and sisters within the black and brown community out of fear of the scarcity and lack.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Kyle Price, Shareese Bembury-Coakley, Jarrett Cobbs and Carri Twigg speak on stage during CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

I arrived at 10:30 am sharp, enough time to sit in on the first panel discussion, “Nothing Moves Without Us: Reclaiming Our Stories” led by multifaceted creative and influencer, Kyle Price, the creator of the “Make It a Moment” , a lifestyle show that creates a safe space for Black queer & gay men to share their experiences through conversation in an attempt to build community. The multifaceted black creator  began his career in media, starring on SlayTV’s, “Love @ First Night” (2016 – 2020, Terry & Sean Torrington) and shortly signed to the South African based “Cover Model Management” and “Vie Management”; he would now be adding a slash and the words  “Culture Con Discussion Host”, beside his name.  On his panel sat the invisible hands that moved the event, the Director of Integrated Marketing at AMC Networks, Sharese Bembury-Coakley; Vice President of Strategy at the award-winning, full-service consumer marketing agency, Team Epiphany, Jarrett Cobbs; and Carri Twigg, the Co-founder and Head of Development for Culture House media, a Black/Brown, Women owned, full service, premium film and TV production company that specializes in storytelling about the urgent cultural questions confronting America and the world.

The panel zeroed in on the impact of BIPOC culture and how the essence of our daily behavior and day to day activities (like social media engagement) drives compelling narratives the world takes notice of, and sadly capitalizes from without our knowledge. The panel highlighted the importance of data to support what we already know and its untapped potential as a career in the black community. The discussion delved into ideating more inclusive and equitable futures for BIPOC in the creative industry.

VP, Jarrett Cobbs, shared in a brief interview with The Knockturnal, the importance of data when stepping into a creative space, understanding the demographic within an audience and how the decision makers utilize that information to sell black narratives, create products or a “target audience” to promote media and products to, “…the people that sit on the other side of the decision making table, don’t know of, or understand our culture; so data helps them to translate that information through organizations. [That data also helps us] to get recognized, paid fairly and compensated. So without that information, we can be sidestepped and not paid our fair value. Data is extremely important to proving our use-case (a written description of how users will perform tasks on websites, with television viewing, etc) for what we do within culture.”

Jarrett also stated that though this isn’t the most glamorous career, as it is technical in nature and back-end facing it poses an ever growing need for BIPOC persons to be involved in the “millions of decisions being made every day based on the data generated from our communities, and we are not being included in it; from the reporting, to the recording, to even the questions they’re asking, we’re not being included and the information is not being properly applied to inform how our communities are being served. We need more people on the data analytics side and to take their businesses off of platforms and build more intimate relationships with their customers so that the data becomes more impactful.” 

Shortly after the 30 minute  panel discussion, I took advantage of the clear skies to venture across the lot and into the AMEX Express Shop that featured independently owned BIPOC businesses making a name for themselves and creating generational wealth for their families. The first vendor I met was Mariana of Cut + Clarity (Real Women, Real Stories, Real Jewelry). Branding themselves as a premier destination for customizable, fine jewelry, sustainably made in NYC, the jewelry brand aims to “drive meaningful and impactful conversations to amplify overlooked communities”. Cut + Clarity’s connection with marginalized communities exemplifies the mindful business practices that are valued within BIPOC company culture – to create a more fair and equitable world. Cut + Clarity’s pieces are all inspired creations, made and designed and through the inspiration of collaborations of the jeweler and her brand influencers. One particularly inspiring collaboration of Cut + Clarity included Stephanie Thomas, (@disabilityfashionstylist) and her fashion styling system. Their artistic venture led them to create a jewelry collection for those with physical handicaps; pieces that are “accessible, smart, and fashionable.” 

The Amex Store also included Terminal B (Luxury scented Candles), created by a husband and wife duo in 2020 during the pandemic; the concept of the candles was to share their love of travel and for travel professionals and couples on the move. I was gifted with the NRT terminal candle after having a strong response to its fragrance. The couple crafted this wax blend  in honor of Tokyo (Airport Code: NRT), the capital of Japan,  the world’s most populous metropolis recognized for its technology and innovation while anchoring itself in timeless tradition. The scent was created reminiscent of elements found near the travel destination, black figs to evoke the essence of  “a luxurious event spent on the top floor of a low lit hotel lounge, with panoramic views of Roppongi Hills”. I was immediately pulled in by the musk in the wax and the subtle smokey scent that lingered behind the aroma.

Other independent black vendors included accessory dreamland, Humans Before Handles and an independently owned art store Create The Culture Embroidery, that creates high quality textile art through hand-embroidery.

My last pit stop in the AMEX store brought me to Pretty Well Beauty, a premiere clean beauty and wellness destination retail outlet. The brand’s commitment is to offer the highest quality clean, natural, and sustainably-sourced products from across the globe. Their belief, as often echoed in the holistic BIPOC community, “Beauty is, first and foremost, an inside job and what you put on your skin is just as important as what you eat and drink. Clean beauty is more than a trend, it’s a lifestyle!” I fell madly in love with one particular scent, which also happens to be a personal favorite of Mrs. Beyonce Gisele Knowles-Carter, SKN MUSE, body oil that is laced with the fragrance oils of Egyptian honey, moroccan and rose hip; the body oil’s scent is sweet, light and powdery and dissolved as smooth as a serum into my skin. I highly recommend checking out her retail store, located in: Westfield World Trade Center. 

Back on the Main Stage of Culture Con, the panel discussions continued, and high profile names such as Actress and composer Tinashe, who previously covered the 18th digital cover of, The Knockturnal, engaged the crowd in an interviewed by Sidney Madden. The Actress and composer, Tinashe, held a candid conversation about her new brand new album “BB/ANG3L”. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: Tinashe attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Additional speakers included Candiace Dillard Bassett of Real Housewives of Potomac;  Faith Jenkins of Killer Relationships, and Preston Mitchum of Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard. Taryn Finley offered guidance on how to navigate your career after achieving the initial level of success, “the sophomore wins” that tend to trip successful creatives up. Inside insights on “Navigating Your Big Break” for attendees included transparent conversations on creating opportunities and strategic expansion of our career pathways, all while learning to navigate through social media engagement and overcoming with imposter syndrome. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: Preston Mitchum speaks on stage during CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Harlem’s social justice advocate and movement strategist Tamika D. Mallory  discussed  the state of our democracy, why voting in the BIPOC community is critical and how to effectively use our voice to initiate change for the collective. Moderated by Kahlil Greene aka ‘The Gen Z Historian’, the panel discussion captured the audience’s civic engagement and excitement to show up and show out in this upcoming election. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: Imani Ellis attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Other speakers included Imani Ellis, Cam Kirk, Luke Lawal Jr. , Brittney Escovedo, Rivea Ruff, Damian Marcano, Vanessa Clifton, Mercedes Cook, Scottie Beam, Sylvia Obell, and Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, with the Day 1 line-up including heavy-hitters like Issa Rae, Jharrel Jerome, Marsai Martin, Teyana Taylor, Ziwe and more (“Culture Con: Day 1”).

I wrapped up the events of the day, showing love, once again to the Resy and American Express curated Resy Dining Hall, featuring culinary delights from famed Black-owned restaurants across the tri-state region, such as Aunts et Uncles and their vegan eatery serving all plant-based dishes, that includes sandwiches and pasta to the likes of  Chef Kwame’s Patty Palace for their Jamaican patties and coco bread curated by Chef Kwame Onwuachi himself. My pick of the day? I shimmed to the the long line outside of Charles’ Pan-Fried Chicken, the James Beard nominated chef and Harlem icon’s soul food for the soul welcomed the longest line of customers and the food did not disappoint. I enjoyed my soulful dish in the VIP section courtesy of MAX “Scene In Black” and sipped refreshing cocktails sponsered by Culture Con’s brand partner, Ciroc.

Culture Con 2023 – NYC, was jam packed with more events than I could (or anyone) cover in two days and well worth standing in the rain (on day one) for. I highly recommend that if you are low on inspiration and in need of a clear path to steer forward in your creative career, this is the place you need to be. If you ever have the opportunity to attend this cultural BIPOC movement, I highly recommend attending at least once in your lifetime; you will not be disappointed.

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EventsFeaturedLifestyle

CULTURECon NYC 2023: Day One

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: A guest attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Saturday, October 7, 2023. Duggal Greenhouse, Brooklyn, New York. — Saturday morning rain showers fell hard and heavy in the borough of Brooklyn; but it didn’t stop the main event from happening on Flushing Avenue.  The annual cultural mecca for Black and Brown creatives, CultureCon, opened its lines to the likes of designers, brand influencers, culture benders, film talents, small business owners, media press outlets and many more. CultureCon, founded in 2019, is the fastest growing conference and brings together creatives and changemakers of color that aim to elevate their social and professional networks. These bountiful creatives intend to make a mark on the culture and within the communities they serve. In an effort to keep the focus “community centered” the conference sets its sights on celebrating prominent and innovative voices leading the way. It is their hope to inspire attendees to make notable impacts in their respective lanes, creative causes and to become an infectious impact on the world at large, as a BIPOC creative-thought leader.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: A guest attends CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

 

This year’s CultureCon presented by Creative Collective included presenting partners: Max, Amex, Shea Moisture, Amazon PRIME, Freevee, Clinique, Google, Ciroc, Bullet Bourbon, Seedlip (Non Alcoholic Spirits), Patreon, Paramount (Content For Change), KickStarter, NBCUniversal,Spotify, Walmart, Tubi, School For Experiential Education in Design, The Startup Collection | Aveeno, Ben & Jerry’s, Coca Cola, LTK, Visible by Verizon, Dotdash Meredith, LCKR, Getty Images, Nielsen, TikTok, #CultureTags, NPR, and The Tillary Hotel- Brooklyn.

 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: (L-R) Simone Jordan, Laura Stylez and Jacob Lattimore speak on stage during CultureCon NY 2023 on October 08, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

CultureCon encourages the creative collective body by honoring notable influencers, industry trailblazers, tastemakers and celebrities. The two day event featured panelists that discussed navigating and managing the pressures in the film and entertainment industries; obtaining careers in the growing field of tech and various degrees of corporate spaces. Other major topics offered insights on personal branding; overcoming the socio-economic factors that impede or inspire creativity; investments, crowdfunding for business and managing personal finances with financial gurus such as Financial Educator and New York Times Bestseller, Tiffany “the Budgetnista”; as well as discussions on maintaining self care while launching brands and building empires.

 

This year the 2023 CultureCon brought on a new facet to their ever growing pilgrimage, now including in its activation booths, a Creative Career Job Fair that allowed the attendees to meet one on one with recruiters from: Amazon Studios, Clinique, Max, NBCUniversal, Google, Walmart, Shea Moisture, and Kickstarter. Career hopefuls had the opportunities to provide or upload their digital resumes within the talent submission pool for further consideration and a chance to land their dream jobs. 

 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Issa Rae speaks onstage during How to Find Your People Brand: American Express panel at the CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Day one of the CultureCon event included the prolific and legendary American Actress and Writer,  Issa Rae (Insecure, Rap Sh!t, The Photograph, The Lovebirds, Barbie) discussed her organization, ColorCreative, and how it cultivated its initiative, the Find Your People Program (FYPP), to mentor aspiring creatives of color through an intensive creative program. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Issa Rae speaks onstage during How to Find Your People Brand: American Express panel at the CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Emmy-Award winning actor and rapper, Jharrel Jerome (When They See Us, Moonlight, Full Circle) sat down with podcast host and entrepreneur, Bimma Williams to share his creative process in music and his career journey. Sharing insights on “When They See Us”  and providing more insight on his new album “I’m a Virgo”, inspired the crowd who remained engaged during his interview with Bima. 

Actress and Film Producer, Marsai Martin (Blackish, Little, Fantasy Football), at the blossoming age of 18 years, took to the stage to share her newest venture as the global brand ambassador for Clinique and shared her creative evolution in beauty after partnering with the high-end beauty brand. Marsai spoke on her numerous achievements, multiple NAACP Image Awards, BET Awards, her historic role as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood, and founding her company Genius Entertainment. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Teyana Taylor and Eric Jones Jr. speak onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

This year’s CultureCon honoree, was the illustrious superstar, Teyana Taylor(A Thousand and One, Coming 2 America, The Breaks). The multihyphenate shared the stage in an intimate discussion with Emmy-Award winning journalist, Eric Jones, to discuss her incredible career and was rightfully presented with the CultureCon 2023 award by her mother and children. Teyana dazzled the crowd with her star studded aura. She handed out pearls of wisdom to the attendees; mentioning that her faith in God kept her strong in mind and spirit; and reminding us that the wait  for our promise is actually our  time of preparation for a great outcome and to learn to give ourselves flowers by being our own glade plugin; further exemplifying why she earned the right to be acclaimed as a cultural icon.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Ziwe speaks onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

TV host and internet icon, Ziwe closed day one with a hilarious conversation alongside, DeAndre Brown  AKA The Corporate Baddie. “Black Friend: Essays,” and her journey from being an intern with big dreams to a certified boss in the midst of her dream career. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Lola Brooke speaks onstage at CultureCon NY 2023 on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

On day one, I found myself richly inspired by panelist, Rap recording artist, Lola Brooke, who eagerly shared her love of performing on stage. The “Don’t Play With” lyricist lit up as she discussed that she knew in her heart she’d always wanted to perform; she said  that before bed at night, she recalls falling asleep with music in her ears and dreaming that she was on stage. She expressed staying grounded and knowing that every decision that she’d made “fell on me” and that remaining centered was above all else, priority for her. 

Day one of CultureCon lunch consisted of jollof rice ( a tomato and rice-based dish that is widely eaten across West and Central Africa) sweet plantains, gold coast slaw,  grilled peri-peri chicken with a Bissap Hibiscus juice from African Chop House, and yes it was delicious. Other featured restaurants included the Crabby Shack, Ras Plant Based, OxKale, Cafe Rue Dix, File Gumbo Bar, Aunt Et uncles, Charles Pan Fried Chicken, the James Beard nominated chef and Harlem icon’s soul food for the soul pick, and Chef Kwame’s Patty Palace. 

By the close of Day one’s festivities, my  black mesh CultureCon tote was full to the brim with goodies.  I collected my goodies from Clinique whose volumizing mascara and skin moisturizer has instantly become a new favorite in my makeup arsenal; magazine giveaways (and cookies) from the largest publisher in North America, Dotdash Meredith; free beverages from CocaCola and SmartWater; and an adorable “Black Men We Love You” men’s care kit from Shea Moisture.

Let me know, did you get your Culture on this weekend or are you planning to attend the Fourth Annual Culture Con? Let me know your thoughts and stay tuned for Day 2 of Culture Con!

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Nick Grant Releases his new album SUNDAY DINNER

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

September 23, 2023. Atlanta, Georgia –Epic Records recording artist, Nick Grant, releases a new album, his most personal, Sunday Dinner. The South Carolina native, now based in Atlanta Georgia, is a new “tour de force” in Hip Hop and this body of work confirms it, hands down. For those that are new to the artist, Sunday Dinner (released, September 22, 2023) is  Nick Grant’s 8th project and 5th official album, following the releases of: 88 (2016), A Seat At The Table +1 (2016), The Return Of The Cool (2017, official album), Dreamin’ Out Loud (2018, official album), God Bless The Child (2020, official album), Carolina Diaries (2021), and Welcome to Loveland (2022, official album).  Nick credits production lead on Sunday Dinner to Donte “Tae Beast” Perkins and Amarah Session.

Raised by his God fearing grandmother, one of her household requirements for the members of her home was regular attendance to church on Sunday; and after, the entire family met for Sunday dinner in their home. In the environment where Nick Grant was raised, his exposure to different figures in the community and the members of his family, gave him different perspectives that impacted his outlook on life and the person he would eventually become. These influences weren’t always positive; from cousins with different temperaments, some of which graduated from college and others who chose a less affluent path; to a drug addicted mother and an absentee father, now deceased; it is clear in this album, Sunday Dinner, that what Nick Grant witnessed and experienced, should have never been his portion in life, but like a good Sunday dinner, Nick wastes none of what was dished on his plate, “I was long overdue to tell my story.” he expressed when asked in his interview with Danielle Niecey of The Knockturnal about what inspired this project,

“I wanted to be vulnerable and personal with this album. It [the album] reflects, in a way, being vulnerable and not caring about being judged.”

Which one can only imagine, being raised in a christian household with his grandparents in a tough community, likely came with tight guidelines, restrictions, and judgements that kept him, “in-check” and “safe”.

Upon hitting play on the first song, “Worryin’ Bout A Classic,” there’s an echo of the influence from two legendary hip hop artists Andre 3000 and Nas, who co-signed Nick Grant’s artistic genius.“My grandma was a big inspiration for me to pursue music,” Nick shares of his biggest musical influences,“My granddad as well; Jay-z, Nas, Biggie, Tupac, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and [singer] Brandy Norwood. I’ve been inspired by hardworking people that I saw growing up.”  Out of respect for his individual artistic expression, it’s important that I emphasize that Nick Grant embodies his own prolific styling in lyricism and wordplay and that his level of talent is reminiscent of Andre 3000 of Outkast, not a comparison I can ever say I’ve come across worthy to make of an emerging artist; and his gifted ability to pen and articulate a story on record, while delivering it all with such a cool, collected demeanor, brings you to mind of Nasir Jones, one of Nick’s creative influences. What gives Nick Grant distinction, however,  is found in his vocal presence, performance and the way he writes. He has an unsuspecting way of delivering punch lines; his word placement and phrasing deserves applause; as well as his surety of confidence and undertones that commands the audience to listen to him. He has forged his own lane, his own original style and his own vibe. 

The full length album is an introspective collection of Nick’s life events that led him to where he is today as a songwriter-recording artist. It wouldn’t be far-fetched if many classified him as a “hometown hero”, touring with big name acts such as Nas, Dave East, Ab-Soul, Ms. Lauryn Hill and Chronixx; but as you listen closely to Sunday Dinner, you hear a man that has exceeded the limitations placed over his life, and that he still aches to bring structure in his life and in the lives of the people that he loves, the community, the city that raised him.

 

“I moved to Atlanta with hopes of being able to go back to Carolina and put other people on,” Nick confesses, “I’m still in the process of that. South Carolina is a beautiful place with a diverse rap scene. [There’s] a lot of people doing their thing and I think if we [can] start being consistent in that, we can grab the attention of the masses.”

With the microphone and pen as interchangeable batons, Nick is running his race and writing his way to his wins through consistency in action, his hand to the plow and money where his mouth is. Sunday Dinner is packed with substance. It is a full serving and offering with much to unpack and with every replay there is something more to digest. Although the album is reflective and at times bears within it a solemn depth, there is an air of realistic optimism and playfulness in its composition. The themes that echo through the album are reminiscent of the films, Friday, as it holds a comedic flair and in other moments in his expression, when he shares the heaviness of what caused his life great suffering and pain, Boyz N’ The Hood.  At times it is as if we, the listeners, sit on a front porch with Nick in chill-mode, and on impulse, jump in the, “Cutlass, Regal, Impala or Bentley” pimpin’ and cruising the neighborhood in his whip for a ride-along through his ink. Sunday Dinner is reflective yet present, and Nick sets the stage in the phrase, “Ain’t got no white neighbors/still I’m moving the waviest [explicit]/ Riding round with a banger like a radio hit…/…wait for the click“ .

Interwoven in the songs, you sense him interacting with life within, life without and all around him, living day to day and sharing with us the layers and complexity that simply exists in his life; a discomfort he’s learned to maneuver, because he knows no other way. Nick’s intention is clear, he wants his expression to land differently, with hopes that sharing his story, moves his fans,“I hope that these stories resonate with the fans. If somebody shares these experiences I hope that they know they’re not the only ones going through these things.” The artist skillfully illustrates turning points of his self awareness and subtly presents that in his verses. As the events unfold in his past and present waking life, Nick gives breath to the community around him, weaving in dialogue in excerpts, and song transitions on “Know Your Worth/Grandma Said,” these excerpts carefully placed in transition, show that he’s never set aside or moved too far away from the age old wisdom instilled from his childhood from his grandmother.

Nick Grant is notably skilled at affirming the listeners that he catches all of the lessons life has thrown at him, and he is solid enough in himself to manage the pain that proceeds personal triumphs. On the song, “Catch This Fade,” Nick makes it clear that he holds no fear squaring up to the challenges life throws at him in the form of rivals, person, place or thing, “When you got heart that’s hard to beat/ Young [explicit] growing up awkwardly/ Yeah I’m from the Southside – If I lose once gotta fight til I win/ yeah my brother like a bout time / Whoop a [explicit] ass still walked in the house crying/ My dad like how, why knowing damn well I got it from him/ Swing on any [explicit] with a foul vibe…”  The artist notes that the song, “ ‘Last jam,’ is a very personal record,” as he speaks on maneuvering the industry and staying grounded in himself, never losing ties to his roots, “it [takes] a unique approach that you don’t hear a lot of rappers talk about,” he adds.

Nick Grant further solidifies himself as a lyrical dynamo, carrying the weight of the project on his back and lightly accenting the album with all in two features from famed lyricist, Ransom, on “Art Dealer” while still dominating in his presence, punchline after punchline; and the two collaborate masterfully. The artists mentioned,  “Ransom is a legend. I thought he fit my story so I just wanted his perspective and he executed perfectly.” Another refreshing feature on the album includes the Southern hummingbird herself, Tweet, on “Heaven”. Nick shared that he reached out the award winning songwriter on Twitter for a feature and the collaboration took off from there, “Tweet is one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met. I’m such a big fan of Tweet and took a shot and just messaged her on Instagram. She’s one of the best vocalists ever.” Without fail, Tweet melodically wisps her haunting vocals the hook, “I’m gon’ take you to heaven/Make you feel like I do,” and Grant showcases the versatility in his range, rolling out his smoother textures of sound that compliment Tweet’s honey ladened vocals.

“[Sunday Dinner is] my most personal album to date, [its] my best body of work.” Nick says towards  the closing of his interview with The Knockturnal, “I want my fans to hear and know that I wasn’t scared to do what I loved. I didn’t care about judgment. That I was being my true authentic self while chasing my dream.” To his credit, there lies in the musicality of this project a “down to earth” and “at home feel” in its sound and presentation and when asked, the artist states that the most important part about self-expression as an artist is, “…being truthful.”  and he does just that in scenes that are vivid and with wordplay that is highly engaging. Sunday Dinner effortlessly balances out the more prominent sounds in the Rap and Hip Hop scope today. The precision and thoughtfulness he places in compiling this project makes it authentic, nostalgic and heartfelt; and these true elements of classic hip hop are not readily found in this era of the genre today. There are no skips in this body of work and it commands the respect of several thorough listens. Nick Grant’s talent, tenacity, passion and focus is undeniable.

Sunday Dinner is available on all major music streaming platforms, Tidal, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music and many more outlets for listening enjoyment.

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FRESH FLAVOR! Cooking with McCormick and Doug E. Fresh

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

Thursday, September 14, 2023. The Institute of Culinary Education, Brookfield Place, Manhattan, New York City — The Knockturnal was cordially invited to a tasty gathering, “Cooking with McCormick and Doug E. Fresh” and renowned McCormick Chef, Cindy Gilbert at the Institute of Culinary Education located in Brookfield Place. The class began with a meet and greet and photo opportunity with legendary Hip Hop and beatboxing extraordinary, Doug E Fresh (yes, that Doug E. Fresh, from the Legendary Get Fresh Crew). 

On the 3rd floor of the immaculate waterfront property, Brookfield Place, guests entered into an exclusive dining and kitchenette space where we were warmly greeted by the McCormick spice team, registered and handed name plates for our cooking stations. The guests, aka the cooking novices, mingled and sipped signature cocktails along with  light appetizers as we discussed our excitement to cook the selected dish of the evening: Spiced Cod with Mashed Plantains.  At 7:30pm, sharp, chef Cindy Gilbert took charge and had us suit up for the cooking class demonstration with seasoned (no pun intended) hip hop veteran, Doug E Fresh. 

The week prior to the live cooking demonstration, Doug E Fresh and McCormick partnered together to deliver a flavor-full song and new music video. The collaboration, as they say in the Hip Hop world, was formed to celebrate the milestone of 50 years of Hip Hop alongside the king of Fresh himself and with the iconic seasoning brand, McCormick, releasing its first newly designed bottle in nearly 40 years. To our surprise, the beatboxing champ not only keeps it fresh on record, but inspired the dish of the evening. Doug E and Cindy Gilbert led the way as we mixed and matched up spices to try his new original recipe with the use of McCormick.


The ingredients for the Spiced Cod and Mashed Plantains were inspired by the love for his heritage and his instinctual cravings for Caribbean cuisine. The delicious dish was super easy to make, only needing a prep time of 15 minutes and cooked in under an hour (45 minutes to be exact). 

The recipe for the Spiced Cod with Mashed Plantains, included: 

  • 4 Cod filets 
  • and began with boiling 3-4 medium sized plantains, peeled and chopped in a pot of water 
  • and ½ a  cup of coconut milk

Once placed on the stove, the newbie cooks were instructed to redirect their attention to creating the spice blend for their dry rub to add to their Cod. 

The spiced Cod would be covered in (or sprinkled, based on individual palate preference) with the following herbs: 

    • 2 teaspoons of McCormick Garlic Powder, 
    • 1 teaspoons of McCormick’s Thyme Leaves; 
    • ½ teaspoons of McCormick’s Crushed red pepper; 
    • ¼ teaspoons McCormick’s Ground Allspice; 
    • ¼ teaspoons McCormick’s Ground Cinnamon; 
    • ½ teaspoons of salt; 
    • and 2 teaspoons of oil

 

After blending the spices, each guest chef dry rubbed their individual filets to their taste preference and sent it off to the fryer for a total cook time of 6 – 8 minutes, rotating the cod every 3 to 4 minutes on each side until done. 

Shortly after, the chefs were instructed by head chef Cindy Gilbert, to remove the boiled plantains, add a cup of the boiled coconut milk and water to the plantains and mash them into a mashed potato-like consistency. Once plated, our dishes held a generous portion of mashed plantains and were topped with our flavor packed Cod. To enhance the natural flavors of the plated dish, garnishes of pickled red onions, diced red peppers and cilantro were accented on the Cod. To compliment our Spiced Cod and mashed plantains, the Institute of Culinary Education prepared and served sides of  braised kale. 

Following the demonstration, we sat with Doug E Fresh and McCormick team to relish in and savor our meals. The evening closed with a surprise “Happy Birthday” song and vegan chocolate cake presented to  Doug E Fresh and the guests departed with take-home gifts of utensils and spices courtesy of McCormick. We also received a cool bluetooth speaker in the shape of an old school cassette tape, loaded with Doug E Fresh’s new, “Get Fresh” song for McCormick’s 40 year Red Cap re-design. Try out the Spiced Cod and Mashed Plantains recipe out for yourself and let us know what you think. Enjoy (and, in the words of Doug E Fresh, “Get Fresh ya’ll”)!

 

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Angela Yee Day Returns for the 5th Year at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Sunday August 27th

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

Angela Yee opens up the ceremony for her ‘5th Annual – Angela Yee Day, 2023’ at Barclay’s Center, Brooklyn, New York

Barclay’s Center, Brooklyn, New York.— On Sunday, August 27th, 2023, Award-winning media personality and Host of Power 105.1’s, ‘Way Up With Angela Yee’ , Angela Yee, partnered with iHeartMedia and The Social Justice Fund to host the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day, 2023’ celebration and community giveback at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Gregg Bishop, Executive Director of the Social Justice Fund, stands along side Angela Yee in support of the community outreach and building initiative for Angela Yee Day, 2023

In 2018,  then Mayor of  New York City, Bill de Blasio declared August 28th to be known as “Angela Yee Day”, a day that commemorates and celebrates Yee’s Caribbean background and honors her Brooklyn roots.  For half a decade, the East Flatbush native, Yee, has been an active participant,  unyielding in her dedication to provide the community with essential  resources that include, but are not limited to, information for  educational support, access to organizations and spaces that promote higher learning and that assist students with their learning development through tutoring and mentorship. the event has attracted vendors that aid in developmental tools and that encourage students to broaden their academic goals, horizons and support systems. This annual event has also introduced the community to avenues that combat food insecurity and shortage, an aggressive problem plaguing the borough of Brooklyn, who was listed as the second highest rate for food insecurity in New York City based on the NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy annual 2022 report (Food Metrics Annual Report).  The event also encourages the youth and their caretakers to prioritize financial literacy by assisting them to uncover their financial planning goals, aid them in research and gaining access to grants, scholarships and additional resources that will fund their long term education goals.

Angela Yee and iHeart Media have successfully upheld the community focus on garnering holistic wellness, along with finding creative ways to integrate West Indian culture through song and dance, a significant part of Caribbean celebrations. “I am honored to continue to bring this free community event to Brooklyn every Summer,” says Angela. “We look for ways to give back to the community and the youth while having a great time!” 

The ‘event’ as Yee humbly states, is an impactful philanthropic offering to the city at best.  The five hour community giveback was held on the outdoor arena of Barclay’s stadium entrance court. Hundreds gathered and kept their focus on the center stage  where giveaways were provided to school aged children from K – 12th grade. Over 200 students received school supplies, including book bags and totes courtesy of The Lelievre Foundation. Barbers offered free hair cuts for the community and free hair braiding was available from the amazing stylists at Destiny Braiders and a giveaway from Jaj’s African Hair Braiding – Broadway. 

American Rapper, Scarlip, poses for the camera at the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day, 2023’ community event at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York

Angela Yee poses with the youth for the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day’ at Barclay’s Center, Brooklyn, New York

Angela Yee Day also highlights and honors cultural traditions through live music and performances that give breath to Caribbean culture. Being held a week before New York City’s Annual Labor Day Parade (held Sunday, September 3rd, on Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York); Yee instinctively felt imperative to showcase performances from artists that represented Caribbean culture.  World renown Reggae, Dancehall, Soca and Afro-beats Artists have been known, since its inception in 20 18, to come and show support for this annual event. Past performers have included Bunji Garlin, Christopher Martin, Alison Hinds, Naomi Cowan and many more. The 2023 artist line up included performances from Macka Diamond, Ricky Blaze, Sheem Kulaj, London Hill, Young Devyn, Chinese Kitty, Home and Abroad, Ricky Blaze, GBM Nutron, Ayo Jay, and emerging Rap Starlit, Scar Lip.

 

Non-Profit Organization, I Will Graduate, performing community outreach for the youth in attendance to Angela Yee Day

Prior to taking to the stage, Dancehall Royalty, Kranium spoke with The Knockturnal to express how vital it was for him to show his support to the community of Brooklyn, “As far knowledge is concerned, in the Caribbean, we find good education to be important and as influential as soca music, [they are both] part of our lives in the Caribbean and [here] in Brooklyn, so its only right to come through and show love, and support for the community. So yes, I came to spread the love, and [I came to] spread dancehall [music].”

Kranium will be releasing his new single, “Vibes Weekend (Remix)” on September 1st featuring alongside artist, Rotimi.

Local talents also blazed the stage, the Chelsea Piers Dance Class performed live. To accompany the run of show, notable DJ’s that covered the live sets included DJ Nick Seale, DJ Danglez, DJ Suave, DJ Norie and Barbadian born Soca Artist, DJ Cheem who had this to say of his participation for Angela Yee Day, 2023, “I typically support Angela [Yee, as a DJ], day to day [but] I sang today. It always feels good supporting children and the next generation coming up. I also feel good spreading Soca music and Caribbean music worldwide, because there are people who may not know about it, or may not be familiar with Soca Music.”

Brooklyn Rapper, MAINO makes a special guest appearance at the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day, 2023’ event

DJ CHEEM performs live for the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day, 2023’ community event at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York

When asked to share what advice he would offer the children before heading back to school, he added, “Stay focused. Stay in School and Follow Your Dreams…and stay offline ” he laughs and melodically adds, “…social media will corrupt your mind.” DJ Cheem recently released his new single, ‘Doggie’ with Yung Bredda.

 

Billboard Music and Grammy Award Winning  Singer-Songwriter, H.E.R makes a special guest appearance at the ‘5th Annual Angela Yee Day, 2023’ event

Special guest appearances included performances from Brooklyn Rapper-Songwriter, Maino and a surprise visit from the the brilliantly gifted Billboard Music and Grammy Award Winning  Singer-Songwriter, H.E.R who spread her good energy and support for Angela Yee, iHeart Media, the Angela Yee Day, 2023 event and the showcased artists who performed live.

Notable Vendors that sponsored “Angela Yee Day, 2023” included the U.S. Army, the education focused non-profit organization, ‘I Will Graduate’, Maxsip Telecom, the Social Justice Fund, Black Maternal Health Partners, Brooklyn Perinatal Network Inc, Caribbean Women’s Health Association, Haven Midwifery Collective, iHeartMedia, and Irth App: Irth is a project of Narrative Nation. 

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Sirius XM & Pandora Present, “For The Love: 50 Years of Hip-Hop” Featuring Wu-Tang

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

August 10, 2023, The Knockdown Center, Queens New York.— Sirius XM, the broadcasting company that provides satellite and online radio services; along with Pandora, their subscription-based music streaming service; Presents, “For The Love: 50 Years of Hip-Hop” Featuring Wu-Tang with Martell Cognac at The Knockdown Center in Queens, New York. 

 

On August 10th, 2023 the Knockdown Center along with Sirius XM,

QUEENS, NEW YORK – AUGUST 10: A view of the audience as Wu-Tang Clan headlines SiriusXM and Pandora’s Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Celebration at Knockdown Center on August 10, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Pandora, Martell Cognac and additional brand sponsors: Clorox, Volkswagen and Cricket Wireless shut down Queens, New York in killah-bee fashion. The loyal fans of the famed Hip Hop group, WuTang, wrapped the sidewalks of the popular venue in hopes to make entry through the waitlist. The group has influenced more than 30 years of the genre and continues to solidify the permanence of their impact and their brand through merchandising, music and much more. 

Prior to the evening portion of the event, Sirius XM and Pandora hosted the “For The Love: A Community Giveback” event for the kids and teens that included a concert, a “back to school” backpack giveaway and an opportunity to celebrate and support the performance culture of the emerging local talents in the area; in the same vein early Hip Hop artists emerged in the community. Sirius XM and Pandora also gifted a $20,000 check to The Boys and Girls Club of Metro Queens.  

Later that evening, the doors re-opened at 8:00 pm with the general admission of an audience of 21+ only guests. Martell Cognac, the leading international prestige cognac, with 300 years of history in its existence, tipped its glass to the tenacity that is the genre of Hip-Hop. Martell Cognac, known for using a high percentage of eaux-de-vie (a traditional double distillation process), aromatic blends, distinct taste and richness in flavor, served their beverages at an open bar in the Premiere seating section for their VIP clients and that of Sirius XM and Pandora; which included brand influencers, designers, media press and Sirius XM’s popular radio show host, Marisol “El Bombon”,  of Sirius XM channel, Caliente; a red-hot sonic blend of salsa, bachata, reggaeton and tropical Latin music. 

QUEENS, NEW YORK – AUGUST 10: Lola Brooke performs onstage ahead of Wu-Tang Clan headlining SiriusXM and Pandora’s Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Celebration at Knockdown Center on August 10, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Upon entry into the venue, a Volkswagen car sweepstakes is posted in royale fashion and immediately ahead of it, a hip-hop themed ‘step-and-repeat’ booth, reminiscent of an urban city building, brought to the venue by Clorox®. The step-and-repeat consisted of 2, 10-second-long video segments, shot by a live cameraman; props that included 4-Subwoofer and 2-Tweeter Speakers and costume jewelry, mimicking the late 80’s to early 90’s fashion. The “Faux 20 mm Cuban Link” Chains paid homage to an essential iconic accessory of the Hip Hop, Rapper fashion movement. Synonymous with the culture, Venetian (shutter) shades, huge diamond encrusted square signet rings and at last, a microphone. Guests had the opportunity to record a clip, in front of a backdrop that mimicked a brick wall with graffiti and the Clorox® emblem on the backdrop. The recorded clips were uploaded to a digital processing bank and participants were able to have the clips sent directly to their phones with a live link for download and share. Clorox®, the long-standing trusted brand has solidified itself with the “ultra fresh” culture, who prides themselves in a “crisp white tee” and “clean kicks”. Its trusted brands, which also include Brita®, Burt’s Bees®, Glad®, Kingsford® (for the summer barbecues), and Pine-Sol® have been trusted household names for every hip hop generation. 

QUEENS, NEW YORK – AUGUST 10: Wu-Tang Clan headlines SiriusXM and Pandora’s Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Celebration at Knockdown Center on August 10, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

The Wu-Tang show opened with a giveaway of high-end fashion brand name sneakers and was followed up with a set, by emerging Brooklyn Artist, Lola Brooke, who performed her hit single, “Don’t Play With It”. Brooke gained notoriety after the release of her breakout single “Don’t Play with It” in 2021 that gained momentum on (formerly) Twitter and TikTok, opening doors for the artist to sign to Arista Records in 2023. Additional guest appearances included  American journalist, radio personality, executive producer and former rapper, Sway Calloway. Sway now hosts “Sway in the Morning” on SiriusXM, “Shade45”. Also in the building, American Rapper and the original Hypeman, Flavor Flav of Public Enemy. The Wu-Tang clan took to the stage with a venue packed wall to wall of screaming fans throwing up the “WU” as they performed their classic hits, “C.R.E.A.M”, “Protect Ya Neck” and a crowd favorite, “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing to F’ With”. The performances, which included a solo performance from Method Man, rocked on into the late hours of the night until the close of the venue at dawn.

QUEENS, NEW YORK – AUGUST 10: Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa, and Method Man of Wu-Tang Clan headlines SiriusXM and Pandora’s Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Celebration at Knockdown Center on August 10, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

To ensure the safety and encourage responsible consumption of their Cognac, Martell offered complimentary designated travel via Uber to its VIP Premiere guests who also enjoyed the luxury of exclusive views of the band’s live performances on stage.


Stay tuned to The Knockturnal as we continue to bring you more exclusive stories on the 50 Year Celebration of Hip Hop!

 

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TINDER hosts the Ultimate Un-cuffing “CHAOTIC SINGLES PARTY” at The MOXY

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

August 4th, 2023. The Bar Beford, Moxy Hotel, Williamsburg, Brooklyn—-The Chaotic Singles Party takes on the Moxy Hotel with Tinder as a host. The Chaotic Singles Party is the brainchild event that went viral via TikTok, on Valentine’s Day of 2022 by Actress, Event Host, and Creator, Cassidy Davis. Cassidy rounded up her single friends and had them invite their long standing crushes from a dating app to an exclusive single’s only house party. She then shared this gathering online. The post went viral, pooling in well over a million views within days. The viral video picked up so much attention that it aired on Good Morning America, the Wall Street Journal, Insider, The New York Times, The Drew Barrymore Show, and KTLA 5 News in Los Angeles among others. Thus, the Chaotic Singles Party was born. 

The Chaotic Singles Parties are held monthly all over the continental US in major cities, such as LA, New York, and Chicago (with a new surprise date and location, currently in the works). On average, between 200-300 singles attend these monthly gatherings in hopes to find their summer fling or forever thing. Impressed by the idea, and being one of the major dating apps in the world, Tinder swiped right on the idea of partnering with the “Chaotic Singles Party” creator to incorporate the popular singles-mingling event into their, “Singles Summer Series” initiative that encourages singles to meet by creating in-person experiences to connect.

A research study from Tinder discovered that “4 out of 10 young singles recently split from a partner”, or typically plan to weeks before the spring and summer months hit in order to be single and available to mingle.  Eager to assist their happy swiping, Tinder launched their very own “Single Summer Series” to help the “newly un-cuffed” population get back out there into the physical dating world. This time partnering with the viral dating wave made by Cassidy’s “Chaotic Singles Party”; and where better to host the NYC event, than the coolest trendsetting hotel hotspot, the Moxy, Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

To attempt to simulate the full experience of the “Chaotic Singles Party”, I joined Tinder and created a user profile in hopes I’d meet up with a match.  I even had my friends and family vote on the spiciest photo for my profile. I set up a Tinder account a few days prior to the event; as it was my hope that one of the 99+ potential “right-swipes” would match with me and I could find a least one to invite to the party. Unfortunately, I did not swipe fast enough to match or build a connection in my area before the event on August 4th. Luckily, there were other eligible singles there who attended and had no pre-existing match either, so my options were wide open.

Danielle Niecey/The Knockturnal. Pictured at Tinder’s “Chaotic Singles Summer” Photographer: C. London; Edits: J. Rivas

Located on Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, a destination cocktail bar, the Bar Bedford, awaited a room full of enthusiastic singles. The 21 + event welcomed me and my tiny entourage of +2 who did not know much of what to expect when approaching this beautifully low-lit cocktail bar. The Bar Bedford, the bar hosting the party, was designed by Bar Lab, the creative entity behind the Broken Shaker restaurant, housed in the Moxy Hotel. Upon entrance, we were greeted by the Tinder team who gleefully handed out name tags shaped in the form of the Tinder flame logos. The customized logos, which also included LGBTQAI+-friendly customized options, represented the guests’ “swipe-preference” type. Guests also had the option of entering a rally where they could win prizes for themselves and their matches. We quickly wrote our names down, attached our Tinder flames to our outfits, and got chaotic-wit-it.

Well, not too chaotic. The event felt more like, laid back chill-vibes, meets singles mixer all in one. It was everything that represented Williamsburg on a Friday night, “low-key, no pressure, and a moderately casual” ambiance. Present was a live DJ who kept up-tempo grooves in rotation for the evening with a blend of lo-fi, house, and EDM tunes. Guests sipped cocktails and flowed freely through the lounge, exchanging numbers, Instagram, and other social media handles; mingling with their favorite matches, new and old,  and indulging in the opportunity to chat with more than one potential love interest.

Chaotic Interview with Cassidy Davis, creator of the “Chaotic Singles Party”

A few guests, myself included, were interviewed by Cassidy herself, and shared details about our “Chaotic” party experience , our upcoming date plans with our new connections, and how easy it was to meet attractive new singles in a more public setting versus one on one pressures of a first date. The idea of a plethora of available singles all under one roof, looking to meet other hopefuls alleviated a lot of the first-time meet-up jitters. It was such a breath of fresh air for many singles who feel more comfortable crawling out of their pandemic pads, apartments, and remote jobs to make human-to-human contact.

For those looking to catch the next Chaotic Singles Party hosted by Tinder, here are a few “needs-to-knows”: Tinder members in New York must be 21 years of age or older to attend due to the sale, consumption and circulation of alcoholic beverages at the party. Tinder members do receive early access to the Chaotic Singles parties hosted by Tinder, allowing them first dibs to secure tickets before they are made available to the general public. Tinder ticket holders do receive preferred entrance to the events. Additional information for future upcoming Chaotic Singles Parties is provided on the Tinder app and Tinder website. Tickets allow entry for two guests – the member and a match they’re interested in exploring a connection with. Once the tickets go live, anyone 21+ is open to purchasing remaining tickets on platforms like Eventbrite (or wherever tickets are available for sale) to attend. Though it is encouraged, you do not need a date or connection to attend.

I thoroughly enjoyed myself at this Chaotic Singles Party hosted by Tinder and highly recommend those in search of a new hottie to take the plunge and swipe right. 

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Fashion & BeautyFeaturedLifestyle

Exclusive: Ayesha Curry Talks Sweet July Skincare Launch

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey

On July 13, 2023. Pineapple  Club, Manhattan, New York.—Ayesha Curry, a Canadian-American actress, cookbook author, restaurant owner, cooking television personality, and the wife of Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, takes another confident step in the direction of solidifying herself as a multi-hyphenate phenom.

Ayesha whips up a new skincare line that has caught the attention of holistic beauty enthusiasts. Sweet July Skin, her newest brand, is made with Ayesha setting her focus on quality ingredients that stem from her passion for culinary arts. The Womenpreneur has come to realize the invaluable component of quality ingredients in both food and its impact on our overall health and how positively our bodies respond when we incorporate them into our day-to-day diets and routines.  Ayesha introduced, “Sweet July Skin” at the Pineapple Club on July 13th to a lounge filled with media personalities, media press outlets, and brand influencers who mingled and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and sipped cocktails as they awaited the big reveal.  Ayesha took center stage near an aesthetically balanced backdrop where she described the Sweet July Skin product line as ‘a deeply personal three-year adventure for her that was inspired by the wisdom of her mother and her grandmother’, both hailing from Jamaica. Praising their intuitive sense and knowledge of the power of Caribbean ingredients and the natural sunlight absorbed by the plants and vegetation; the Entrepreneur honors tried and true traditions that cultivate and maintain our natural beauty through the fruits of the earth and deliver a nutrient-dense skincare brand that feels like a self-care retreat!

The lightweight, fruit-filled, and pleasantly scented formula found in the new product line is simple, and clean and combines “sensory-rich properties” of the superfoods: papaya, guava, and lychee seeds to yield proven and visible results. For those that are new to skincare, or who like me, are searching for a hydrating and effective skincare line the significance the Sweet July Skincare line offers the user benefits in the following ways:  

  • It is a simple three-step kit that is easy to follow, routine-friendly, and starts in your shower
  • The formula is effective and results are immediately noticeable, improving with consistent use

  • The first application is the Pava Exfoliating Cleanser, it’s a cream-based, nonfoaming formula that contains fermented papaya, lychee seed powder, glycolic and lactic acid, and guava extracts. The cream-based formula acts as a gentle cleanser that removes makeup and dirt and refreshes dull skin through exfoliation.  The benefits deliver antioxidants to the skin with a light tingle as it works and leaves the skin feeling renewed and invigorated. Lychee seed is packed with numerous benefits from anti-aging, to toning to treating and preventing sunburns.  

 

  • The Pava Toner is a lightly scented liquid formula that aids to achieve smoother, softer glowing skin when used in conjunction with the daily Pava Exfoliator. The formula is a blend of glycolic acid, fermented papaya, and guava which helps to resurface and dissolve dead skin cells and aid with skin turnover.  Papaya is beneficial for the skin as it exfoliates dead skin cells and removes pollutants from the skin. This superfruit also fades pigmentation and enhances the secretion of collagen when used topically. Guava is popularly known for its high content of vitamin C, which has been used to brighten skin when applied to its surface. Guava also regenerates the skin, aids in skin elasticity and it releases water to your body when consumed or applied. Upon application to the skin, the toner cools the surface of your face and neck, soothing and cooling as a perfect follow-up to the exfoliation. According to the market studies for Sweet July Skin, 94% of users agreed that after four weeks of use of both the Pava Exfoliator and the Toner, their skin felt smoother and healthier and 89% of users agreed that the appearance of their skin improved significantly.

 

  • The third and final step in the skincare line includes the Irie Power Face Oil. The face oil acts as a clarifier and included the heavy hitters: neem seed oil, turmeric root oil, salicylic acid, and squalene.  Neem oil has been proven to treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, and worts. It is anti-aging and promotes wound healing. The addition of turmeric root acts as a natural skin brightener, aids in creating a natural glow to the skin, moisturizes skin and rids the surface of the skin of dark circles. Salicylic acid reduces swelling, and redness and contributes to dead cell turnover, revealing a fresh layer of skin with each use. Lastly, squalene oil keeps the skin clear and reduces the visibility of fine lines that accompany again. The benefits of Irie Oil include a notable reduction of inflammation and redness; a feeling of nourishment (100% of the consumer test group, consisting of 40 participants after 6 weeks of use expressed this); and 95% of users praised the healthy glow they experienced after using the clarifying oil.

 

With such thought and careful consideration placed into creating this skincare line, it was of utmost importance that we sat with Mrs. Curry to gain exclusive insight into her personal take on self-care through skin care.

 

Danielle Niecey, The Knockturnal: What is the most important principle to keep in mind when it comes to skincare?

Ayesha Curry: Consistency is so important when it comes to skincare. Setting a routine and sticking with it has made the biggest difference for me in seeing my skin transform.

 

Danielle Niecey, The Knockturnal: Is your line geared to a specific skin type (dry/oily/combination/sensitive skin) or demographic?

Ayesha Curry: In formulating Sweet July Skin, it was so important to me that the products were clean and gentle to use. I wanted to make sure that a wide range of skin types could enjoy and benefit from these products. We also made sure that when it came to consumer testing, we had participants with a broad range of skin types, with 60% being women with darker skin tones. Sweet July [Skin] is all about inclusivity, and our skincare line is no different.

 

Danielle Niecey, The Knockturnal: There’s a strong emphasis placed on the three-year journey you’ve taken that inspired and cultivated this skincare line: ‘What holistic need/prompting lead you to begin this journey that led to the creation of Sweet July Skin’?

Ayesha Curry: I have always had acne-prone skin, and as I got older, I would think back to my mom and grandma who always had amazing skin. They used to always tell me about the power of ingredients like Caribbean superfoods – using simple everyday products to treat all kinds of skin maladies. I finally started taking these recommendations to heart, so much so, it inspired the Sweet July Skin line. At the foundation of each of these products are nutrient-packed island ingredients like papaya, guava, and lychee seed – all inspired by my heritage and the strong Jamaican women in my life.

 

Danielle Niecey, The Knockturnal: Beauty is only skin deep: Can you share your philosophy on skin integrity as it pertains to self-care, personal beauty, self-esteem, etc.

Ayesha Curry: For me, healthy skin has been a source of confidence. It’s the first thing people see when they meet you, so it’s worth investing in. Through the years I’ve also learned to really appreciate the ritual of my self-care routine, taking a little time out of a hectic schedule has become something I look forward to; which is why I wanted products that not just work but are enjoyable to use. Everything in the  [ Sweet July Skin] line is sensory, it truly is like treating your skin to an island vacation.

We closed the interview with a huge token of gratitude for her time and a quick selfie in which Ayesha absolutely lit up with an extraordinary glow. I couldn’t wait to get home and to try the goodies bag made available at the exclusive Pineapple Express Club gathering for Sweet July Skin.

As a personal account to speak to the integrity of this brand, I am on my second (transitioning into my third) week of usage of this skincare line, and I am impressed with the results that Sweet July Skin has had on my skin in such a short period of time. I have always suffered from chronic dry skin after exposure to harsh detergent-based soaps in my adolescent years, dark circles under my eyes, and scarring to my pigmentation from hormonal acne in my adult life. I have struggled to find products that my skin responds well to. I’ve experimented with everything from Eucerin cream, Cetaphil, and noxema creams, to Rose Hip Oil; shea butter, and cocoa butter down to Vaseline and this is the best that my skin has ever appeared or responded to a product. My favorite installment of this line is the Pava Exfoliator. It has a gentle tingle and the scent is inviting, and refreshing, and the product clarifies the surface of my skin in one sweep. I usually apply it twice because I love the way it feels on my face. After use,  the surface of my skin is a clean finish without residue or the harsh dryness that I’ve often found in other skincare products that contain alcohol.

The Sweet July Skin skincare line hydrates my skin from the moment I apply the exfoliator to the last drop of Irie Power Face Oil on my fingertips to my face. I’ve noticed that rough patches that once posed themselves as problem areas and where I struggled to achieve or hold moisture are no longer problem areas that I have to find ways to cover up or hide. My makeup applies better since the surface of my skin is smoother. The best part is that this product allows my skin to breathe and now I opt to wear less foundation and concealer (if any) as I have nothing to cover and want to show off my brightened, glowing skin. I think the radiance comes from the turmeric root oil in the blend. I now opt for a volumizing mascara, an ombre brow, eyeliner, and a stay-proof matte lip color to compliment the reemergence of my healthier layer of skin. I appreciate that the kit is simple and doesn’t include too many bottles or steps to follow for me to see results. It is easy to apply without throwing my routine into a frenzy and it smells absolutely amazing! I wish I grabbed four bags of this stuff so I would have a long-lasting supply of my own. I will definitely be purchasing more of this line for myself, my friends, and my family and continuing to richly reap the amazing benefits it yields.

Sweet July Skin is available for purchase on the company website: SweetJulySkin.com

 

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FeaturedMusicNewsThe Latest

Denim + Streetwear Brand KSUBI X A$AP TyY Shutdown SoHo to Launch Limited Edition Moto-Inspired Capsule Collection

by Danielle Niecey
written by Danielle Niecey
  • Wednesday, June 28th 2023. KSUBI Store, SoHo, Fashion District, New York—The Australian Global denim streetwear line, KSUBI, that emerged as the hottest fashion line, infamously known for their signature distressed denim and box cross logo, reinforced their reputation to stand apart from the crowd of traditional denim based brands with their most recent collaboration. The DIY rebel of style partnered with rising rapstar from Harlem, A$AP TyY of the A$AP Mobb, to launch a Limited Edition Moto-Inspired Capsule Collection. A$AP TyY arrived at the jam-packed KSubi SoHo  (located at 26 Greene Street) on a four-wheeler in moto-royale fashion. The artist, adorning a two piece denim set from the official moto-inspired line, took to stage shortly after and performed songs from his new EP, “1840 Lex” that officially dropped on Thursday, June 29th.

The inspiration behind the new nine-piece collection with KSUBI stems from A$AP TyY’s love for motosports and street racing. With TyY’s undeniable passion for the sport, streetwear fashion and heavy involvement as a multi-hyphenated creative, the conception and design of the capsule collection extended its spirit into the heart of the content creation for his new EP, “1840 Lex”. The 7-song music project brings in its wake A$AP TyY’s refreshingly eclectic sound fused with hip hop, trap and electronic music; the same audible styling that caught the ears of the legendary A$AP Rocky and A$AP Yams. A$AP TyY’s fashion-facing and trend setting appeal has been the vehicle thrusting him forward in the industry as an icon.

 

“​​I had the idea of doing moto-style denim and jerseys for a while. If you know your denim you know KSUBI. There’s no denying how influential KSUBI has been on hip-hop culture, and its ties to A$AP [Mobb], so it only made sense to bring this collection to life with the help of both of our teams”, said A$AP TyY.

There’s no formal way to say this but, the EP “1840 Lex”,  is pure fire; coupled with a brand that leads the way in innovate streetwear, that’s a brilliant pairing. It’s a masterful adrenaline rush with blends of many genres and styles found in trap, punk, golden era hip hop and is ladened with synths and pitch distortion as found in electronic music. A$AP TyY’s performance on record displays a thoughtful expression of raw emotion. His hunger for artistic freedom bleeds through a confident showcase of his vocal coloring, choice of instrumental accompaniments and release of emotion through his penned lyrics. A$AP TyY’s ability to explode on track at any moment illustrates the energy behind KSubi’s hard-edged appeal. With Ksubi and A$AP TyY partnering on the creative direction for the music video of TyY’s newest single, ‘Purge’, from the “1840 Lex” EP,  the two iconic figures merge their brands effortlessly.

 

KSUBI highlights that in the exclusive nine-piece collection, their collaboration with A$AP TyY emphasizes the focus on the ‘collateral damage as stressors to the fabric of the garments that incur while participating in the sport’ and ‘attempting to maintain the garment’s original integrity as motosport ware’ as part of the central theme throughout KSubi and A$AP TyY’s Limited Edition Capsule designs. Championing items of the in-demand collection include: two racing jersey designs with co-branded KSUBI & A$AP custom pieces influenced by sponsor logos on the jersey’s of the professional moto-riders. KSubi shines in their custom faded wash techniques on their iconic slim-fit Ksubi denim, which is also included in the collection, plus a t-shirt and hoodie offer the collection an ‘already lived in feel’, that is achieved only after ‘breaking in’  the traditional hold of new attire. The jersey-fabric pieces are accentuated in distressing fashion which lends a heavy nod and silent applaud to the look and feel of natural wear and tear. The denim has also been moto-style treated to provide oil stain effects, ‘gravel splatter’ artwork on the back of the garments, and repair style embroidery on the crotch to give the deteriorated feeling of motorsport ware.

 

The KSUBI x A$AP TyY’s, Limited Edition Moto-Inspired Capsule Collection, will be available from 29th June 2023 at KSUBI stores in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago and London, as well as brand’s official online retail store: www.KSubi.com and selected retailers globally which including Saks 5th Avenue in the US and Culture Kings in Australia.

“1840 Lex” by A$AP TyY is available on all major music streaming platforms Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal and more.

 

 

 

 

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