About

QUEEN NAIJA × ARI LENNOX – SET HIM UP

Leave a reply

QUEEN NAIJA & ARI LENNOX UNVEIL CINEMATIC VISUAL FOR “SET HIM UP”

Track Is One Of Five Previously Unreleased Songs On “missunderstood…. still”

The Deluxe Edition Of Queen’s Chart-Topping Debut Album Out

Watch “Set Him Up” Visual HERE

Pre-Save “missunderstood…. still” HERE

Today, Queen Naija and GRAMMY nominated singer-songwriter Ari Lennox unveiled the official video for “Set Him Up” with a YouTube premiere. The single is from “missunderstood….still,” the deluxe edition of Queen Naija’s chart-topping debut album, which was released by Capitol Records. View the official video, which was directed by Val Vega (JP Saxe, The Color Brown, JP Wilde) and shot in Atlanta, HERE. Santiago Salviche served as executive producer and Carla Johnson as producer.

Released last week, “Set Him Up” earned a spot on the playlist of The New York Times, with critic Jon Pareles observing, ”Over a slow-motion strut of a bass line and a glass of chardonnay in the lyrics, Queen Naija and Ari Lennox sweetly intertwine their voices, enjoying each other’s explicit details about their latest hookups.” HotNewHipHop praised the “sultry single” and The Source noted, “[‘Set Him Up’ is] a seductive tag team between the two sirens as they glide over the all-too familiar scenario of dealing with the same man at the same time.”

“Missunderstood….still” features five previously unreleased songs including “Love Is…” ft. J.I The Prince of NY, plus ”Butterflies Pt. 2” Remix feat. Wale alongside the album’s original 18 tracks. See below for track listing.

Pre-save “missunderstood….still” HERE .

Queen has amassed over 2.5 billion combined global career streams to date. After its release last fall, “missunderstood” took the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart and earned a place in the top 10 of the Billboard 200. The single ”Butterflies Pt. 2” hit No. 1 on the Mediabase and BDS Urban AC charts shortly after, giving the 24-year-old Detroit-area native her third chart-topper at the format, following the 2x Platinum ”Medicine” and the Platinum-certified ”Karma.” Follow-up single “Pack Lite” was recently certified Gold by the RIAA.

Flaunt said, “Equipped with a smooth and sultry voice and infectious energy, each one of her R&B ballads are real, honest, and relatable.” Essence Girls United noted, “Queen Naija’s album, missunderstood, touches the soul in a way that only Black music can.” “Queen Naija is, without question, who R&B heads should be checking for,” declared DJ Booth.

Track Listing for “missunderstood….still”

Bonus tracks in bold

Supa Vibe
Set Him Up ft. Ari Lennox
Love Is… ft. J.I The Prince of NY
Empty
Insecure
Passionate
Butterflies Pt. 2 Remix ft. Wale
Intro
Too Much To Say
I’m Her ft. Kiana Lede
Pack Lite
Lie To Me ft. Lil Durk
Dream
Love Language
Without You ft. Russ
Say What You Mean
Bitter Skit ft. Pretty Vee
Bitter ft. Mulatto
One Time ft. Toosii
Pressure
Five Seconds ft. Jacquees
Pretend
Trial And Error
Butterflies Pt. 2
Beautiful

ANPANMAN PREMIERES ON TUBI

Leave a reply

GLOBAL POWERHOUSE ANIME FRANCHISE ANPANMAN TO PREMIERE EXCLUSIVELY ON FOX ENTERTAINMENT’S FREE STREAMING SERVICE TUBI

Apple Boy and Everyone’s Hope will kick off a slate of ten movies never before seen in English and Spanish, featuring one of the most recognized animated characters in Asia, to debut globally on Tubi Kids

Tubi, a division of FOX Entertainment, today announced it will exclusively premiere the massively popular Anpanman franchise from TMS Entertainment to English and Spanish speaking audiences. Starting with ten movies, the first of which is now available, anime fans in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico will be introduced to the beloved superhero and his world of friends, which holds the Guinness World Record for most characters in an animated franchise. With five dedicated museums, Anpanman is the most popular character among both boys and girls in Japan. Anpanman – whose head is an anpan, a popular Japanese pastry – is a champion of justice who flies anywhere to help those in trouble, all the while keeping an eye out for his trusty nemesis, Baikinman. Apple Boy and Everyone’s Hope will be the first of ten films to premiere on Tubi.

“Anime fans of all ages can now enjoy the Japanese phenomenon Anpanman in English and Spanish for the first time ever,” said Adam Lewinson, Chief Content Officer, Tubi. “We can’t wait for viewers to meet Anpanman and his lovable enemy Baikinman as they join our iconic roster of characters on Tubi Kids.”

Exclusive titles from the Anpanman franchise will debut on Tubi in English and Spanish. Anpanman will be voiced by Ghia Burns (Betty en NY, Un Poquito Tuyo, La Doña, Decisiones) in English and Cristina Hernandez (Hello Kitty, Powerpuff Girls Z, Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon) in Spanish. Anpanman’s foe Baikinman will be voiced by Jason Michael Kesser (The King’s Avatar: For The Glory, Gintama, A.I.C.O Incarnation) in English and Eduardo Garza (Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Bleach, Zatch Bell!) in Spanish.

The Anpanman slate of films coming to Tubi includes:

· Apple Boy and Everyone’s Hope

Apple Boy longs to be a hero, when a witch turns the fruit in his beautiful village into poison. He must find a magic seed. Anpanman to the rescue!

· The Adventure of Happie

When Anpanman’s new apprentice Happie is swayed by Baikinman, Happie’s whole village is in danger. Anpanman must set him straight, before all is lost.

· Star-Spirited Dollie

When Anpanman saves Dollie, she gains life and just wants fun, even if it means bothering others. Meanwhile, Baikinman tries to build the strongest mold robot to defeat Anpanman.

· Purun, The Soap Bubble

Purun cannot make big bubbles, and skips performing. Anpanman must help her rid the palace of Baikinman and his creepy bubbles.

· The Secret of Fairy Rin-Rin

When Baikinman tricks the fairy Rin-Rin who protects the flower that gives Anpanman strength, everyone must go on a journey to find more flowers.

· Blacknose and the Magical Song

An orphan Cana raised in darkness by evil Blacknose tries to destroy the joys of singing, dancing, and yummy food. Can Anpanman make the kid see the light?

· Revive Banana Island!

Clouds and cold may ruin all the sweet fruit on Banana Island, but queen Banna refuses to ask Anpanman for help, while Baikinman goes to Banana Island in search of the legendary Giant Banana.

· Nanda and Runda from the Star of Toys

The selfish princess Runda, accompanied by a kind robot Nanda, loses her wand that turns things into toys and needs Anpanman’s help to find it.

· Shine! Kulun And The Stars Of Life

Before the annual Star Festival, the mysterious Kulun pops out of Baikinman’s garbage bin and black stars fall, threatening life on Anpanman’s world.

· Twinkle! Princess Vanilla Of Ice Cream Land

In a land where an ice cream castle rises from snowy mountains, Anpanman must help Princess Vanilla learn an urgent lesson to save her kingdom.

Tubi Kids features a robust library of children’s content – nearly 2,000 age-appropriate movies and television shows or over 8,000 hours of content – completely free in a dedicated section built just for families. Anpanman and his many friends join a list of iconic characters in the Tubi Kids section, which includes Barney, Scooby-Doo, VeggieTales, Superman, Batman, LEGO® NINJAGO®, Sonic the Hedgehog, Strawberry Shortcake, Paddington Bear, Casper the Friendly Ghost, Garfield, The Wiggles and many more. A destination for age-appropriate content on the service, Tubi Kids helps alleviate parents’ worries over what their children are watching and will soon be available on all major streaming devices in the near future.

Tubi is available on Android and iOS mobile devices, Amazon Echo Show, Google Nest Hub Max, Comcast Xfinity X1, Cox Contour, and on OTT devices such as Amazon Fire TV, Vizio TVs, Sony TVs, Samsung TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Android TV, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X | S, and soon on Hisense TVs globally. Consumers can also watch Tubi content on the web here.

About Tubi

Headquartered in San Francisco, Tubi, a division of FOX Entertainment, is an ad-supported video on demand (AVOD) service with movies and television shows from nearly every major Hollywood studio. Tubi gives fans of films and television programs an easy way to discover new content that is available completely free. The service is currently available in the US, Canada, Australia, and Mexico.

Cruel Summer by Freeform

Leave a reply

Freeform’s New Series “Cruel Summer” Brings You Back to the ’90s With Nationwide Activations on April 24

Freeform teamed up with Dippin’ Dots, Steve Madden, Amoeba Music, and ’90s-themed Instagram Accounts for a Series of Giveaways, Events, and Sweepstakes

The Network Will Also Host a ‘90s Themed Roller Rink Open to the Publicon April 24 and April 25

Cruel Summer Premieres on Freeform on April 20 at 9:00 PM and is Available on Hulu the Next Day

Freeform is bringing back the ’90s with a series of marketing activations across the nation on April 24th, 2021 to celebrate the premiere of the new, highly-anticipated series, “Cruel Summer.”

From the executive producer, Jessica Biel, comes the chilling story of one girl, Kate Wallis, who goes missing. And another girl, Jeanette Turner, who mysteriously takes over her life. Told over 3 summers in the ’90s, “Cruel Summer” will leave you torn between who to believe and what ‘the truth’ even looks like. Because the deeper you go in this mystery, the darker it gets. In this twisted tale, the truth is how you see it. “Cruel Summer” will premiere with a two-hour event on Tuesday, April 20 at 9:00 PM EDT/PDT and will be available the next day on Hulu. After the series premiere, new episodes will air Tuesdays at 10:00 PM EDT/PDT.

Fans will be immersed in the ’90s with giveaways from iconic brands including Dippin’ Dots, Steve Madden, and Amoeba Music, along with a special Instagram sweepstakes and a ’90s-themed roller skating event at Westfield Century City.

“Freeform’s new series, ‘Cruel Summer,’ takes place over three summers from 1993-1995. We’re excited to be partnering with classic ’90s brands to celebrate this rich time period and drive fan excitement for the series,” says Joe Ortiz, SVP Content Marketing, Freeform.

To celebrate the Cruel Summer ’90s Day, 120 Dippin’ Dots stores across the nation will offer the first 50 fans a free, 10 oz serving of the limited edition “Cruel Summer Chill Thrill” flavor. The flavor is a combination of rainbow ice and cotton candy and will be served in a custom, ’90s themed, color-changing cup. Fans will also receive a ’90s style Cruel Summer branded scrunchie.

At Amoeba Music’s new Hollywood location on Saturday, April 24th, the first 500 fans will receive a free $20 voucher to buy a ’90s vinyl or CD of their choice. The first 500 fans will also receive a free Cruel Summer ’90s choker necklace. Amoeba will be spinning a custom playlist featuring artists that can be heard in Cruel Summer and more ’90s faves.

The first 10 fans at 20 Steve Madden stores across the nation will receive a free pair of the iconic ’90s black SLINKY platform slides. Participating locations include: Westfield Century City – Century City, CA; South Coast Plaza – Costa Mesa, CA; 34th St – New York, NY; SoHo – New York, NY; 42nd St – New York, NY; Roosevelt Field – Garden City, NY; Garden State Plaza – Paramus, NJ; Towson Town Center – Towson, MD; Lenox Square – Atlanta, GA; Perimeter Mall – Atlanta, GA; Aventura Mall – Aventura, FL; Dadeland Mall – Miami, FL; Town Center at Boca Raton – Boca Raton, FL; Lincoln Road – Miami Beach, FL; The Galleria – Houston, TX; Galleria Dallas – Dallas, TX; North Star Mall – San Antonio, TX; La Plaza – McAllen, TX; Scottsdale Fashion Square – Scottsdale, AZ; and Fashion Show – Las Vegas, NV.

The Cruel Summer ’90s Roller Rink will take place at the Westfield Century City Mall Atrium on April 24th and 25th. Fans can expect to have a chance to score ’90s-inspired Cruel Summer swag, discover easter eggs from the show hidden throughout the activation, and other surprises and delights.

Fans who are not able to attend in-person giveaways can still participate in the Cruel Summer ’90s Day through a special sweepstakes on the Freeform Instagram account and ’90s themed accounts ’90sanxiety, iamthirtyaf, and forever_’90s_fan. Fans can enter for a chance to win a ’90s-themed prize pack including a you-go-girl necklace, roller skates, a Garbage band t-shirt, a cassette tape player, a pair of Steve Madden SLINKY shoes, an Amoeba Music gift card, a Dippin’ Dots gift card, and a Caboodle.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open only to persons, who are, as of entry, 18 years of age and older (or age of majority in their state of primary residence, whichever is older), legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 states of the U.S. or D.C. Entries must be received between 11:00am PT on 4/24/21 and 11:59pm PT on 4/28/21. Get friend’s permission to tag. Click here for full Official Rules and entry details.

For more information on Cruel Summer, visit Freeform’s website.

About Freeform

Freeform connects to audiences with bold original programming and immersive social engagement that moves the cultural conversation a little forward. Freeform channels the force and momentum of its young adult audience in its quest for progress with authentic, groundbreaking original series such as “grown-ish,” “The Bold Type,” “Good Trouble,” “Motherland: Fort Salem,” “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” and “Cruel Summer.” The network also programs tentpole events such as “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kick Off to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas.”

About Cruel Summer

From executive producer Jessica Biel (“The Sinner”), Cruel Summer is a psychological thriller that follows two young women: Kate Wallis, the popular girl with a charmed life who one day goes missing, and Jeanette Turner, the nerdy wannabe who is accused of being connected to Kate’s disappearance. All signs point to Jeanette’s guilt, but is Kate really who she seems to be? Set over three summers and told through shifting points of view, the series challenges perception and follows how one girl can go from being a sweet outlier to the most despised person in America. The series stars Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Michael Landes, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes, Blake Lee and Brooklyn Sudano. Cruel Summer comes from studio One and was created by Bert V. Royal. Tia Napolitano serves as showrunner. Executive producers include Napolitano, Royal and Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple. Max Winkler directs and executive produces the pilot. After the series premiere, new episodes will air Tuesdays at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT.

About Dippin’ Dots

Dippin’ Dots has produced and distributed its flash frozen tiny beads of ice cream, yogurt, sherbet and flavored ice products since 1988. Made at the company’s production facility in Paducah, Kentucky, Dippin’ Dots distributes its unique frozen products in all 50 states and 7 countries through its franchised and direct distribution network. For more information, including franchise opportunities, visit their website. Follow Dippin’ Dots on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Steve Madden

Steve Madden designs, sources and markets fashion-forward footwear, accessories and apparel for women, men and children. In addition to marketing products under its own brands including Steve Madden®, Dolce Vita®, Betsey Johnson®, Blondo®, GREATS®, BB Dakota® and Mad Love®, Steve Madden is a licensee of various brands, including Anne Klein® and Superga®. Steve Madden also designs and sources products under private label brand names for various retailers. Steve Madden’s wholesale distribution includes department stores, specialty stores, luxury retailers, national chains, mass merchants and online retailers. Steve Madden also operates retail stores and e-commerce websites. Steve Madden licenses certain of its brands to third parties for the marketing and sale of certain products, including ready-to-wear, outerwear, eyewear, hosiery, jewelry, sunglasses, fragrance, luggage and bedding and bath products. For local store information and the latest Steve Madden booties, pumps, men’s and women’s boots, fashion sneakers, slippers, dress shoes, sandals and more, visit their website.

About Amoeba Music

Amoeba Music, the world’s largest independent record store, draws all kinds of customers seeking rare, hard-to-find and not-so-hard to find music, movies, posters, t-shirts and more. With stores in Hollywood, San Francisco and Berkeley and at Amoeba.com, they stock everything – from the most popular artists to the most obscure in all genres.. With an all-star team of record store veterans, their collective depth of knowledge is virtually unparalleled in the business. Amoeba Music is also the ultimate source for cinema, with thousands of titles in every genre on DVD, Blu-ray, VHS, and even Laserdisc.

MY BROTHER’S KEEPER

Leave a reply

Powerful and Inspiring Film That Shares a Battle with Faith, Forgiveness and PTSD, Releasing to Home Entertainment

Available on DVD and VOD May 11

After an incredible theatrical launch as venues re-opened throughout the US, the feature-length drama “My Brother’s Keeper” is preparing for its release to home entertainment. In a partnership between Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and Collide Distribution, “My Brother’s Keeper” will release on DVD and all major VOD platforms on May 11, 2021. The film shares a powerful story of faith and forgiveness in the wake of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

“My Brother’s Keeper” was directed by Kevan Otto (“A Question Of Faith”, “Forgiven”) and written by US Army Veteran Ty Manns (“A Question Of Faith”, “The 5th Quarter”). The film stars TC Stallings (“War Room”, “A Question Of Faith”), Joey Lawrence (“Melissa & Joey”, “Blossom”, “Hawaii Five-0”), Robert Ri’chard (“Coach Carter”, “Empire”), and Keshia Knight Pulliam (“The Cosby Show”).

“It was so encouraging that many theaters across the US re-opened their theaters with ‘My Brother’s Keeper,’ a desperately needed story of hope,” shares Manns. “It is also an incredible honor that the film was able to play on military bases and at the National Infantry Museum. We pray that, as the film becomes available to larger audiences through home entertainment, the story continues to give encouragement to those struggling with issues of PTSD, forgiveness, and loss. A reminder that, no matter what the situation, there is always hope.”

Film Synopsis:

“My Brother’s Keeper” shares the story of returning war veteran SFC Travis Fox (TC Stallings) who has one more battle to fight–PTSD. Fox and his best friend SFC Ron “Preach” Pearcy (Joey Lawrence) are in their 6th combat deployment when Preach and his entire Ranger platoon are killed in a deadly improvised explosive device attack. Travis returns to his hometown to settle the affairs of his parents who had passed away years before. In searching for answers about his parents, he also discovers a new obstacle in PTSD. He finds support from church counselor, Tiffany Robertson (Keshia Knight-Pulliam) and slowly begins to rediscover his faith in God, until he discovers a secret. Travis uncovers a secret hidden by his best friend Donnie Berry (Robert Ri’chard) that threatens his new-found faith, restores his guilt, and causes him to consider the unthinkable.

View the trailer here.

About Manns Mackie Studios:

Manns Mackie Studios is a concept-to-consumer feature- film production company that specializes in family and faith-based films.

About Collide Distribution:

Collide Distribution, a division of Collide Media Group, specializes in down-streaming home entertainment distribution through UPHE Content Group. Collide Media Group was formed in 2016 by veteran Christian entertainment marketing executive Bob Elder with a mission dedicated to “elevating media that inspires a deeper relationship with Christ.” The Collide team has worked on over 50 Faith-Based films, creating and executing marketing campaigns that have generated billions of impressions and resulted in hundreds of millions of ticket transactions. The group is officed in historic downtown Franklin, Tennessee.

About Universal Pictures Content Group:

Headquartered in London, Universal Pictures Content Group is a repertoire center acquiring and producing multi-genre entertainment for distribution across theatrical, home entertainment, television and digital platforms on a worldwide basis. Universal Pictures Content Group a unit of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG). UFEG produces, acquires, markets and distributes filmed entertainment worldwide in various media formats for theatrical, home entertainment, television and other distribution platforms, as well as consumer products, interactive gaming and live entertainment. The global division includes Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Brand Development, Fandango and DreamWorks Animation Film and Television. UFEG is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

PETER MANOS × KINDNESS – DO YOU TURN RED? (REIMAGINED)

Leave a reply

Reworked EP out April 22 via Capitol Records

Manos’ debut single “In My Head” is now RIAA Certified Gold

Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Peter Manos announces “Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined),” a reworking of his 2020 debut EP, out April 22 via Capitol Records. Made alongside GRAMMY-winning British artist and producer Kindness, the new EP spotlights Manos‘ soulful, brooding vocals with a deliberate, textured new take on his intimate R&B. Watch the visualizer for first single “In My Head (Reimagined)” HERE. The EP is available for pre-order HERE.

“In My Head (Reimagined)” is a stark new version of Manos‘ breakthrough track, which was named a Song You Need to Know by Rolling Stone shortly after its release in 2019. Since then, the dorm-room-crafted hit has garnered 333 million streams globally, been certified gold by the RIAA, and appeared on the soundtrack to the Netflix film “To All the Boys: Always and Forever.” Rolling Stone hailed “In My Head” as a song that “proves that ballads can still surprise,” and this new version is similarly revelatory, setting the mood with glassy strings and a barely perceptible beat, and placing Manos‘ raw tangle of post-breakup regrets at its emotional core.

Manos, hailed as “your favorite new R&B singer” by Flaunt, has long been a fan of Kindness, the project of artist, producer, and arranger Adam Bainbridge. While Kindness has worked with artists as varied as Solange, Robyn, Kelela, and Blood Orange, Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined) marks the first time that the fiercely solo Manos has brought in an outside collaborator. The project has opened up his work in unexpected ways.

“I love these new versions because they are interpretations of these songs that I would have never come up with on my own,” says Manos. “The arrangements, the playing, the way that Kindness emphasized my vocals–there are so many different things I love about them.”

“Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined)” reinvents each track from Manos‘ debut EP, including a gently up-tempo rework of ”You Don’t Know Me” and a shimmering update of ”Tennessee,” which The New York Times said encapsulated “pure male angst.” Kindness’ arrangements further uncover the soul that lives at the heart of Manos‘ music. “From the beginning, we had the idea of working with Kindness and this was the perfect opportunity,” says Manos. “Adam’s work brought me into a different world that I wasn’t as familiar with. It has changed the way I view a lot of music.” The EP presents exciting new possibilities about the future of Manos’ music–new worlds to explore, and new emotions to share.

Do You Turn Red? (Reimagined) TRACKLIST:

My Mind (Reimagined)
You Don’t Know Me (Reimagined)
At Night (Reimagined)
Tennessee (Reimagined)
Zach’s Ballad (Reimagined)
Do You Turn Red (Reimagined)
In My Head (Reimagined)

8. Zach’s Ballad (Chopped & Screwed)

About Peter Manos

Despite being intensely private, Peter Manos is extremely good at introductions. When he shared his first song in 2017–”In My Head,” that heartrending slab of eerie soul recorded in a dorm room– he turned ears and stoked fascination: Who was this master of catharsis and vibe, always obscuring his face in photos? Everything that’s come since has slowly opened a window onto his wild mind, while also somehow deepening the intrigue. Consider his second song, “Out of Love,” a mercurial mix of alt-pop, indie R&B, and intimate folk. Or his third track–the title of which being “You Don’t Know Me”– says it all, as the track’s live video shows five differently dressed Manoses, playing five different instruments. The Dallas-to-Los Angeles transplant is a one-stop-shop singer, songwriter, guitarist, pianist, and producer. As he puts it, “I’m completely obsessive about making music and getting it right.” And it shows. The man packs a lot into his songs. Memories, realizations, and conversations with himself. Loss, warmth, hope, and loneliness. He has a knack for creating his own space within the familiar, and it’s safe to assume this auteur will soon craft an entire world for us to explore.

About Kindness

Kindness (Adam Bainbridge) is an Asian British producer, DJ, documentary maker, radio host, and recording artist. Their solo works include albums World You Need A Change of Mind (2012) and Otherness (2014). As a producer, they lend a distinct and recognizable sound, with projects including work on Freetown Sound and Negro Swan by Blood Orange and A Seat at the Table by Solange Knowles (for which they won a GRAMMY), as well as production and songwriting on Robyn’s record Honey and writing and production for Jessie Ware’s What’s Your Pleasure. Kindness returned in 2019 with a string of new singles featuring a wide range of collaborations including Jazmine Sullivan, Robyn, Seinabo Sey, and many others. Kindness’ 2019 album Something Like A War chronicled a long journey of reflection and personal dedication. The record is a life-affirmed exploration of new beginnings, and continuing joy in music and collaboration, heavily emphasizing themes of femininity and the role of femmes in community and art, and the sensuality that comes from vulnerability and longing. Celebrated with a wide range of collaborations, it is Kindness’ most ambitious and well-rounded work to date.

Sustainable Travel in Tennessee

Leave a reply

Be Clean, Go Green and Travel Sustainably in Tennessee

Celebrate Earth Day by Going Green with these Sustainable Attractions, Restaurants and Accommodations

Known for its natural beauty, unique culture and southern hospitality, Tennessee strives to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts to preserve its wonder and charm for future generations to come. This Earth Day, be clean and go green with Tennessee Department of Tourist Development by sustainably eating, exploring and lodging across the state.

Where to Stay

Eco-friendly lodging options help play a significant part in reducing water, plastic and energy waste every day. Below are a few lodging options that will have guests snoozing smart and more carefree all night long:

The Crash Pad – Chattanooga

Located in Chattanooga, this eco-friendly, LEED-certified glamping spot is unlike any other. Offering 24 bunk beds or five private rooms, complimentary DIY breakfast and walking distance to some of the area’s restaurants and bars, this classic, yet charming hostel provides visitors with a blend of reclaimed and renewable resources to ensure the best of energy efficiency while supporting local sustainable businesses.

Hutton Hotel – Nashville

Known for its four-star, four-diamond service, the Hutton Hotel goes above and beyond to provide its guests with an eco-friendly stay. From the time guests arrive, they are greeted by bamboo floors and furniture made from reclaimed wood. The rooms are equipped with automatic, motion detection lights, and to cut back on the use of plastic guests can find soap, shampoo and conditioner all in dispensers. To reduce the use of carbon-emissions and air pollution, the hotel is within walking distance to several popular attractions, restaurants and bars.

David Crockett State Park Cabins – Lawrenceburg

The David Crockett State Park Cabins are the perfect, family weekend getaway. Equipped with geothermal-powered HVAC units and gas fireplaces, these LEED-certified vacation homes are ahead of the curve on energy conservation. The state park also has the Tennessee Naturalist Program which serves as an educational training program to provide service and outreach efforts to help preserve Tennessee’s natural beauty and resources.

For other eco-friendly lodging options, look for the Tennessee Green Hospitality certification on business’ websites.

Where to Eat & Drink

People come to Tennessee from all over to try its award-wining restaurants and signature dishes whether it’s a southern comfort dish or a night out at one of the many farm-to-table establishments across the state. Dive into these local, sustainable-friendly restaurants, bars and wineries that play a part in reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

Husk – Nashville

Known for their ever-changing menu of fresh ingredients all from the south, Husk takes Southern cuisine to the next level. This farm-to-table approach provides a menu full of seasonal food and drinks all while saving the environment and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Local Goat – Pigeon Forge

Located in Pigeon Forge, the Local Goat specializes in locally sourced and sustainable foods. Customers can enjoy a selection of craft food and drinks such as “bhaahhbu” back ribs, ahi tuna steak, a buckberry old fashioned and much more.

Belly Acres – Memphis

With two locations at Overton Square and Regalia, Belly Acres prides itself on bringing their customers the best food “from our acres to your belly.” They have a wide selection of signature burgers, salads and beef-less burgers. They are so passionate about inspiring others and future generations to eat clean that on Wednesdays kids eat free.

2021 New Harvest Farmers’ Market – Knoxville

Opening April 22, the 2021 New Harvest Farmers’ Market offers a wide range of seasonal products including fruits, vegetables, plants, meats and much more. Open every Thursday until Sept. 30, guests cannot only shop for fresh produce but also enjoy the park’s children’s play area, covered pavilion and walking trails.

Winery at Seven Springs Farm – Maynardville

Wander down the historic “Thunder Road” to the charming Winery at Seven Springs Farm. This winery like many others across the state makes its wine on-site which helps to cut back on long-haul delivery and greenhouse gas emissions. They offer tours across the vineyard for their visitors to learn about how they make their wine and take in the picturesque views.

East Nashville Beer Works – Nashville

Make a toast to Earth Day with friends and family at East Nashville Beer Works by sipping away on its locally brewed beer. A member of the Tennessee Sustainable Spirits program, the brewery aims to reduce their environmental impact and energy footprint through practices such as using tankless water heaters and implementing temperature controls.

To read more about Tennessee’s Sustainable Spirits program and its members, click here.

Where to Explore

Whether you are looking to explore Tennessee’s great outdoors or wander down the cities charming neighborhoods, these unique attractions offer environmentally friendly fun all while stressing the importance of being sustainably responsible.

Mirimichi Lakes Golf – Millington

Bring your “A-game” this Earth Day at Mirimichi Lakes Golf. This award-winning course of more than 7,400 yards provides its visitors with an eco-friendly experience. From integrated pest management and water conservation, Mirimichi offers championship-worthy views and environmentally friendly practices for both amateur and professional level players.

Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga

Make a splash by visiting the Tennessee Aquarium to learn more about the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, their scientific studies and what they are doing to restore and conserve the earth’s ecosystems. Through their Global Passport Program, guests can learn more about different species from around the world and the role they play in their environment.

Able – Nashville

While in Nashville, stop by Able, an ethical fashion brand dedicated to sustainability. The company strives to make a positive impact on the environment by using recycled packaging and mailers, repurposing discarded hides for their leather products, creating all their jewelry by hand without the harsh chemicals needed from a manufacturer and picking clothes that are made from all-natural fibers.

Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park – Johnson City

Guests can cycle their way through Earth Day at the Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. With over 40 acres of terrain and trails, bicyclists and hikers of all ages can spend the day in the great outdoors enjoying the beauty of Johnson City.

Hike MoCo – Wartburg

Established in 2017, Hike Morgan County is a network designed to encourage hikes on Morgan County trails and promote a healthy lifestyle. Throughout the network’s organized hikes, hikers are encouraged to pick up trash along the way to help preserve the beauty of Morgan County’s trails and surrounding areas,

Check out these Earth Day celebrations happening across the state:

April 17-18, 24-25

EarthDayz at Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain

Celebrate all weekend long with Rock City’s 12th annual EarthDayz. The event will host four animal shows in partnership with the Chattanooga Zoo, live music, living ground walker character and much more.

April 22:

Earth Day Hike at Sycamore Shoals State Park – Elizabethton

Kick-off Earth Day 2021 with a guided hike around Sycamore Shoals. Throughout the guided tour, learn about the different trees in the area, how our ancestors used them and the best tips and tricks for a hiking trip.

April 23:

Family Nights at the Museum: Exploring the Arboretum! – Smyrna

Join the historic Sam Davis Home as they commemorate Earth Day with the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council to learn about the site’s arboretum and its many collections of trees.

April 24:

Nashville Earth Day at Centennial Park – Nashville

Connect with the Nashville community and discover ways to make a positive impact on our environment with local sustainable small businesses, government agencies and nonprofits. The event will take place in Centennial Park where attendees can learn and engage with a wide range of activities and exhibits.

Spread the Mulch Volunteer Work Day at Shelby Farms Park – Memphis

Shelby Farms Park will host multiple volunteer workdays to spread the love this Earth Day. During this socially distanced event, volunteers will help lay mulch throughout the park to help trees retain water, prevent future erosion and provide the proper nutrients needed for them to continue to grow.

ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

Tennessee is the home of the blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly, and rock ‘n’ roll— delivering an unparalleled experience of beauty, history, and family adventure, infused with music that creates a vacation that is the “Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee.” Explore more at tnvacation.com and join other Tennessee travelers by following “TNVacation” on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and “Tennessee” on Snapchat.

KILT VS TROUSERS – A LONG BATTLE

Leave a reply

Are you confused about what you should wear at the next Scottish event you attend? Well, you are at the right place. Here, you will find everything that you need to know before the event regarding kilts for men and trousers. Many Scottish men point out that real men should put on kilts, but younger generations may be more flexible in their wardrobe choices. For example, Jaden Smith is known to rock a kilt on occasion. Of course, the choice differs from person to person–not all of us like the same food, do we? No! Similarly, some may like the kilt and others prefer trousers. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of each, so that you can decide which is most appropriate to wear for your upcoming event.

Men’s Kilts

A kilt is among the earliest and most popular types of Scottish apparel. Men, and even kings, have worn kilts since hundreds of years ago; and they are still a popular part of Scottish culture today. Many men and women–even those who are not located in Scotland–wear kilts as they are a comfortable and versatile part of their wardrobe. So, let’s see exactly why they love wearing kilts so much.

Trousers/Pants

Everyone prefers wearing pants–until the first time they try wearing a kilt for a day. Pants are everywhere in modern fashion, because according to the modern generation, kilts are considered very girlish. We have simply accepted trousers, but the following discussion is going to make pant-wearers reconsider their thoughts.

Comparing Kilts & Trousers

1- Comfort

No matter if you’re wearing a traditional Scottish kilt or a modern utility kilt, it will make you feel pleasantly surprised by its comfortability. In comparison, trousers make you feel bunched up and limit your movements. Compared to the limited movements trousers allow, your legs get complete freedom to move in kilts.

2- Keeps You Cool in Summer

Kilts keep you cool when the weather is hot, but you may not realize this until you compare wearing both kilts and trousers in the hot climate. You’ll feel your legs drenched in sweat in trousers, whereas kilts keep you unbelievably cool, if you choose the fabric accordingly. When it comes to choosing the most breathable and summer-friendly kilt fabric, you should avoid heavy wool that’s used for traditional Scottish or Irish kilts. Instead, try a sport utility kilt made from a lightweight cotton blend for the most breathable feel.

3. Time Limitation

You can’t wear the same pair of trousers you run errands in to go to a formal event, can you? No! Unlike trousers, there’s no such limitation with the kilts. You can wear kilts anywhere and anytime, as long as you pair it with the appropriate accessories and shoes.

4. In Terms of Health

According to the Scottish Medical Journal, men who wear kilts regularly show better sperm quality and fertility when they plan to have a child. Although there’s not a lot of research-based scientific evidence on the topic, it can be something to be considered.

5. Makes You Feel Good About Yourself

Surprisingly, men’s kilts can have positive effects on men’s mental health, making them feel an improved sense of masculinity and pride. According to the Scottish Medical Journal, psychological benefits like these can help men feel more confident. Kilts give men the confidence they need to achieve their personal, as well as relationship, goals. Kilts may help men grow as a person. If you’re suffering from a lack of confidence, I’d suggest you try wearing a kilt–you may be surprised by the positive changes.

Benefits of the Kilt

● Adjustable fit: kilts allow you to adjust their size according to natural body changes and/or preferred comfortability.

● No bunching & bending: No more bunching and bending in clothing material will allow you to feel relaxed and free.

● Keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter: Kilts can keep you cool in summer and maintain your body heat in winter, depending on the fabric. Especially in the summers, kilts can help make a hot summer’s day even more fun. Kilts are a perfect choice for any weather.

● Health: The design of kilts provide the most breathable option for an outfit. The ventilation helps keep your private parts’ temperature regulated, which can lead to higher sperm counts and higher fertility. A kilt also looks attractive, which will keep your partners’ attention on you and, in turn, helps maintaining your relationship goals.

Benefits of Wearing Trousers

● Trousers are appropriate in all situations. We cannot deny the fact that kilts can be inappropriate to wear in some specific places (usually due to religious or cultural differences,) so trousers come to the rescue.

● Freedom of movement: Just in case you have to stand on your head, there is no risk of indecent exposure with your trousers, unlike kilts.

● Keep your calves warm: Long pants cover your calves. We can’t deny the fact that trousers beat out kilts when it comes to keeping your calves warm.

● Health: An advantage of trouser is that long pants can keep your legs safe from harmful UV rays.

Conclusion

No one can tell whether kilts or trousers are better, as it differs from person to person. In my opinion, it shouldn’t matter which you choose, but you should consider trying on both garments. If you haven’t at least tried a kilt before, you should give it a shot. Once you do, it is likely that you may never want to turn back. In the end, whichever makes you feel more comfortable, confident, and happy is what you should wear.

TOOSII – WHAT IT COST

Leave a reply

Toosii Shares New Single And Video for “what it cost”

Track Is From Thank You For Believing, Set For May 7 Release

Combined Global Streams Of Toosii’s Songs Near One Billion

Pre-Save / Pre-Order Thank You For Believing HERE

View “what it cost” Video HERE

On his powerful new single, ”what it cost,” Toosii reflects on his roots and his current reality. The Syracuse-born, Raleigh-based artist, who is closing in on one billion combined global streams across all of his songs, details his journey from a lost kid surrounded by tragedy to a national sensation full of promise on the introspective, stripped-down track. Download/stream ”what it cost” HERE. The song is from his new mixtape, Thank You For Believing, set for May 7 release via South Coast Music Group/Capitol Records.

“My mom is a real hard worker. That’s where my hustle comes from. She taught me to never quit,” says Toosii.

While many rags-to-riches stories have been told, the official video for “what it cost” is a rags-versus-riches story, following Toosii as he transverses two starkly different worlds. Directed by Joan Pabon, who helmed the official videos for ”back together” and ”Reminiscing,” the clip shines a light on inequalities and economic disparities and the tangible and intangible costs of living in a poverty-stricken home versus a wealthy household. The video is bookended by real talk from Toosii about his life, touching on the loss of his grandfather, the times he’s nearly died himself and his drive to be there for the loved ones that are depending on him. “Everyday bro, I wake up, I gotta go hard bro. Can’t go back to being homeless,” says Toosii. View the video HERE.

Earlier this month, Toosii earned widespread praise for ”back together,” which also appears on Thank You For Believing. XXL named it one of the “best new songs” of the week. “Toosii skyrocketed into the mainstream in 2020. Now, he’s looking to continue this ascension with “back together,” observed Complex. ”Toosii [is] looking to own 2021,The harmonic love fest [‘back together’] taps into [Toosii’s] R&B sensibilities while still showcasing his penchant for nimble bars,” said HipHopDX. HotNewHipHop noted, ”[‘back together’] plays much more like a ballad than anything else and it works to perfection, it’s a nice piece of self-reflection that will make any fan want to tap in for more.” View the official video for ”back together” HERE. Fans who pre-save / pre-order Thank You For Believing HERE will instantly receive ”what it cost” and “back together.”

Propelled by his gift for drenching real lyrics in rich emotion, Toosii has proven himself to be one of rap’s most relatable rising stars. Naming him an artist to watch, Billboard said, “Toosii is coming for the crown.” On Thank You For Believing, he tells jarringly honest tales of street life and lost love, addressing the good times and the bad, the glow-up and the dark days that came before. Toosii’s career has been percolating in North Carolina for years, but he found immediate, staggering success in February 2020 on the strength of Platinum Heart. The album hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Albums chart and launched Toosii into the top 10 of Rolling Stone’s Breakthrough 25 chart.

Toosii quickly followed up those achievements with Poetic Pain in September 2020, which debuted in the top 20 of the Billboard 200. He recently earned a Gold record for his top 10 Urban radio hit, “Love Cycle.” Toosii has earned a devoted audience, including 2.4 million Instagram followers. In 2020, Toosii collaborated with DaBaby, who’s tipped him as “the hottest new emerging artist.”

David Uzochukwu – Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic

Leave a reply

Mare Monstrum/Drown in My Magic, a digital exhibition by David Uzochukwu on Artsy

2016 – ongoing.
Italy, Senegal, Germany

Artist statement:

Mare Monstrum / Drown In My Magic channels the power of myth by explicitly visualizing Black merfolk. It envisions water as expanse which the characters can cut through, be safe in. No longer are they subject to whims of the tide, or drift into a void that holds the potential for destruction. Instead, the portrayed are equipped to survive and find freedom in the monstrous.

It almost seems as though Blackness is inevitably linked to a passage through the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, Evros River, whether historic or recent. The potential of self-actualisation lapping at someone’s feet always calls to mind the blood, sweat and tears of those who have come before them. Can new lore shift the entanglement of Black bodies and their environments, making unquestionably clear that they belong?

About the series:

David Uzochukwu’s photographs deliver you into warm and sensitive worlds where humans and nature entwine in search of belonging. Expanses of sand, water or sky embrace Black bodies emanating strength and resilience. Often their limbs morph into fantastical forms against hyper-real landscapes that offer a space for contemplation or escape. It’s this interplay between the natural and supernatural, between the visible and invisible, that imbues the artist’s images with an arresting presence.

Uzochukwu’s ongoing body of work, Mare Monstrum / Drown In My Magic, uses the central idea of Black mermaids to explore both the historical relationship between the African diaspora and the water, and contemporary politics around illegal migration. A great part of the images were made in Senegal in 2018 and show mermen emerging from the seas protecting and healing one another. The most recent images came together in Germany and introduce a whole community of hybrid merfolk in states of solace and rebirth. An incubated baby, a proud centaur and a tender couple, among others, inhabit a boundless realm.

The Austrian-Nigerian artist was born in 1998 in Innsbruck. His photographic practice began as a teenager with intimate self-portraiture that soon gained recognition. He’s enjoyed collaborations with artists including FKA Twigs, Pharrell Williams, Ibeyi and Iris van Herpen. Since joining Galerie Number 8, he’s exhibited at Bozar, Photo Vogue Festival, Unseen Amsterdam, Off Biennale Dakar and LagosPhoto. He was named ‘One to Watch’ by the British Journal of Photography in 2020, and his first co-directed short film, Götterdämmerung, was selected for Max-Ophüls-Preis in 2021. He is currently studying philosophy at HU Humboldt University of Berlin.

“The long history of oppression experienced by people of color in the West makes an unlikely context for art devoted to the fantastical. All the more so when you consider recent developments such as the racist rhetoric and anti-immigration policies of the Trump administration, the chilling roll call of African-Americans killed by US police (Freddie Gray, Eric Garner, Philando Castile) and the bigotries unleashed in Britain by Brexit (monkey chants at football matches and a spike in xenophobic hate crimes). Under such conditions, it’s worth asking if a turn to the fantastic by black artists is driven by a desire to escape from the charged and painful circumstances of daily life. Yet the opposite seems to be true. What characterizes much of the imagery being produced today is an eagerness to grapple with urgent questions of culture, identity and history– albeit through imagery that accentuates the extraordinary rather than the everyday. (…)

Ultimately, the Berlin-based David Uzochukwu – whose recent Drown in my Magic project situates a panoply of mythical water creatures within arid landscapes – may speak for all the artists currently finding inspiration in fantasy. The goal, as Uzochukwu puts it, is to reclaim the narrative of fantasy’ by embracing ‘the alien otherness projected onto black bodies in a way that could be read as pure empowerment.’”
-Extract of the essay “A Fantastic Turn” by Ekow Eshun for Unseen Magazine.

Drown in My Magic will go live starting April 16th 2021 on Artsy HERE.

The Best Cities to Get Stoned

Leave a reply

It’s been a busy year so far for the cannabis industry: In recent weeks, New York, Virginia, and New Jersey legalized recreational marijuana for adults — with four other states, and even the federal government, possibly joining soon.

In light of these rapid changes — and 4/20 around the corner — the most important question to ask right now is: Which of America’s weed meccas promise to enhance your cannabis experience?

LawnStarter ranked 2021’s Best Cities to Get Stoned by comparing 94 U.S. cities (where recreational marijuana is currently legal) based on 12 key indicators of a smoking good time. Among them: The volume of Google searches for “marijuana” and “weed,” access to dispensaries and head shops, and availability of 420-friendly lodging and smoking lounges.

Check out the top 20 stoner cities below, followed by some highlights and lowlights from Lawnstarter’s report.

Best Cities to Get Stoned

1 Denver, CO

2 Los Angeles, CA

3 San Francisco, CA

4 Fullerton, CA

5 Garden Grove, CA

6 Glendale, CA

7 Colorado Springs, CO

8 Boston, MA

9 Portland, OR

10 Las Vegas, NV

11 Orange, CA

12 Detroit, MI

13 Torrance, CA

14 Santa Ana, CA

15 Pasadena, CA

16 Huntington Beach, CA

17 Anaheim, CA

18 Lakewood, CO

19 Ontario, CA

20 Worcester, MA

Highlights and Lowlights

Denver: The Mile High City

Denver takes the weed cake in our ranking as America’s pot capital. With Colorado leading the nation’s recreational cannabis reform movement in 2012, it’s safe to say being a first mover really has its advantages.

Denver dominates the social environment category, with more 420-friendly lodging establishments and social consumption lounges. Where Denver falls short: the number of dispensaries and head shops and Google search popularity.

Colorado Springs and Lakewood also finished on a high note, at Nos. 7 and 18 overall, respectively. Only Fort Collins, in 63rd place, didn’t fare as well.

California: The State of High

Five Golden State cities landed in the top 10, a dozen in the top 20, and 20 in the top 30, and … you get the point: California is the “it” place for stoners, with the Los Angeles metro sweeping the popularity and supply access categories.

Among the top 10 overall are Fullerton, Garden Grove, and Glendale — all earning the highest grades in popularity and supply access — plus San Francisco at No. 3.

While no California city won every single metric, chances are you can find anything and everything cannabis-related in the state. It is, after all, the true reform pioneer: The state was first to legalize medical marijuana, in 1996.

Doobie Newbies

Cities in the newest states to join the league of fun-weed states — Arizona, Illinois, New Jersey, and New York — for the most part placed in the bottom third of our ranking. For example, Tucson, Arizona, landed at No. 85; Rockford, Illinois, at No. 91; Newark, New Jersey, at No. 90; and New York City at No. 77.

But two cities are riding on their recent high: Chicago — propelled by an abundance of marijuana tours and events — at No. 28, and Paterson, New Jersey — with the most residents searching for weed online — at No 46. Apparently, stoners here have waited long enough and aren’t wasting any more time.

The full ranking and analysis can be found on Lawnstarter’s website.