About VAUGHN LOWERY

Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).

For The Parent Who Needs R+R

Bath Salt Soaks from Formulary 55 are natural soaks that transform your bath into a rejuvenating sanctuary that melts away stiffness and leaves your body feeling supple and relaxed. They provide the muscle-soothing and skin softening benefits of Epsom salt, the calming effects and promotion of better sleep with magnesium, and the mineral-rich nourishment of pink Himalayan salt that can help with skin hydration. Scents include Sea Salt & Sage, Jasmine & Marigold and Palo Santo & Oud! All Soaks also contains no phthalates, parabens, SLS, or dyes and is also cruelty-free and vegan.

Bath Salt Soaks from Formulary 55 via 360 Magazine.

Formulary 55’s hand-poured and hand-wrapped products – which include bar soaps, hand creams, sparkling bath fizzies, facial treatments, and candles – are made at its headquarters in Pueblo, Colorado, using premium botanical ingredients sourced from across the U.S. Also known for its elegant and distinctive black and white packaging featuring vintage botanical drawings, Formulary 55 aims to bring a touch of luxury to daily life, fostering confidence and joy in its customers. Sample a little bit of everything with one of their premium gift sets. I especially LOVE their Bourbon & Vanilla Bath & Body Gift Set

For The Parent Who Likes Eco – Sustainable Products:

Canary is an amazing personal and home care product line born to help purge the planet of plastics, declutter bathroom and kitchen counters in style, and bring something truly fresh (and refreshing) to cleanliness. Think concentrated formulas that reduce the carbon footprint and come to life in stylish reusable glass bottles, deliver fabulous flavors and scents, and do their job effectively thanks to the best natural ingredients.

Their Concentrated Foaming Hand Soap works by using plastic-free soap slices that get dropped in a glass bottle – then just fill it up with warm water, wait an hour and then start using the fluffiest clouds of foaming soap ever. This natural, sustainable solution dramatically reduces plastic waste in your home, as each compact 3 oz bar yields 12 bottles of invigorating foaming hand soap that smells amazing and contains no toxins or chemicals. Available in Cedar Mint and Fir Needle + Sage scent.

Canary personal scents via 360 Magazine.

Bloop Laundry Soap is an ideal gift for women! It’s an eco-sustainable line free of all hormone disruptors, chemicals, and toxins. It’s a small-batch, laundry soap with crafted scents that you actually want to smell on your clothes long after they’ve come out of the laundry. Scents like Salt Air, Stone Fruit and Super Bloom – smell so GOOD! Watershed Safe and Environmentally Conscious prioritizes sustainability with a lightweight cardboard container that should be recyclable in most municipalities. Vegan and Cruelty-Free. Available at Heybloop.com!

For The Meat Lover:

The Valor Provisions Steakholder Membership is the ultimate gift for the meat-loving special someone in your life, and it comes at an incredible value of only $100 for life! This exclusive membership offers premium access to expertly curated, high-quality steaks delivered right to their doorstep, elevating every meal into a fine dining experience without breaking the bank. Perfect for foodies who appreciate rich, flavorful cuts and the convenience of top-tier service, this thoughtful gift combines luxury and affordability. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a weekend barbecue, the Steakholder Membership ensures your loved one enjoys the best in every bite, making it a gift they’ll savor all year long.

Valor Provisions Steakholder Membership via 360 MAGAZINE.

For The Coffee & Tea Lover:

Show your special someone just how much they mean to you with the “Be Limitless, Be Love” Take Care of Yourself Mug! This inspirational mug is more than just a gift—it’s a symbol of infinite love and possibilities. It’s the perfect companion on this day the self-help book, Be Limitless, Be Love, which takes the form of fictional short stories. The stories feature protagonists who face familiar challenges, learn to love themselves, and overcome limitations, whether real, perceived, self-imposed, or external. (Think Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul!)

For Anyone Looking To Begin A Meditation Practice:

Gift your loved one ultimate relaxing meditation and soundtracks with composer Murray Hidary’s, MindTravel! Here is a list of all different options you can purchase to unwind, clear your mind, and get back into a space of peace! MindTravel combines mindfulness with melodies. Hidary composes or improvises and performs himself on piano for a unique, enriched experience. Hidary has offered his program all over the U.S. and now is bringing it to some unique and iconic locations across the world.

For Candle Lovers:

Celebrate the extraordinary woman in your life with KolibriJoy—a collection of premium, hand-poured candles crafted from the purest essential oils. Inspired by the joy found in life’s smallest moments, this exquisite line was created by fragrance industry expert Kecia Hielscher as a tribute to her German-born mother. Each candle is infused with a unique “joy molecule” designed to uplift the mood, making it a thoughtful and meaningful gift. With five signature scents—from the warm embrace of vanilla and sandalwood to the refreshing notes of citrus and green tea—these candles offer a luxurious way to remind Mom to pause, reflect, and celebrate her journey.

For the Cannabis Loving Parent:

Give those cannabis lovers something to talk about with Blazy Susan – a forward-thinking and consumer focused brand – making some of the best rolling accessories out there! Their fun and vibrant packaging also makes them stand out from competitors. Their gorgeous, customizable Spinning Rolling Tray features an innovative design with small compartments for all different types of smoking accessories and supplies, including lighters, pre rolls, bangers, your cell phone, and more. The Blazy Susan Spinning Rolling Tray is truly revolutionary and was built by smokers for smokers. Give it a spin – your coffee table will never be the same! The Blazy Susan is 15.5” in diameter and is constructed from high-quality birch. It is hand finished with a fine Italian varnish to ensure a sleek and smooth rolling experience.

For the Mom that Does It All:

Our multitasking superhero – this Mother’s Day you deserve to CHILL! V Coterie’s best-selling Chill Pill Pave Stud Earrings are the perfect reminder for her daily dose of chill. Crafted with 18K gold over eco-brass, these earrings come in all birthstone colors. Side effects include lots of compliments.

V Coterie’s best-selling Chill Pill Pave Stud Earrings via 360 MAGAZINE.

For the Pet Parent:

Trot Pets Elevated Complete Set is the ultimate gift for the dog-obsessed mom! This sleek and modern set includes premium slow feeder bowls and an elevated stand that supports healthy digestion and posture. With rust-proof, dishwasher-safe bowls, air-tight travel lids, and a design that looks great in any kitchen—this isn’t just a pet product, it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Trot Pets Elevated Complete Set is the ultimate gift for the dog-obsessed via 360 MAGAZINE.

Oakley MUZM Straight Jacket 9

Over two decades ago, the Straight Jacket defined an era of Oakley—bold, defiant, and made for those who refused to follow. It shattered the boundaries of sport, infiltrating culture through film, TV, and the streets, while being worn by the legends who set the blueprint. Now, as Oakley celebrates 50 years of defying convention, the limited-edition Oakley® MUZM Straight Jacket 99 returns — handpicked from the archives and reimagined for a new generation of rule-breakers.

Led by Trinity Rodman, professional soccer player and Team Oakley athlete, who is forging a new legacy, the MUZM Straight Jacket 99 captures the bold, fearless spirit that made Oakley a cultural icon. The Straight Jacket was made for those who understand that style isn’t dictated—it’s self-defined. When the original frames dropped, Oakley didn’t hold back: if you need the world to tell you how to look, this isn’t your frame. This is eyewear for those who don’t ask, don’t wait, and definitely don’t need the world’s opinion.

A member of the Jacket family—a collection of eyewear that fits the face like apparel fits your body—the design connects past and future, revamping the second generation of Straight Jacket down to the classic flame detailing. Featuring the same sporty, aggressive look that was signature to Oakley’s design language in the ’90s and early 2000s, the lightweight O Matter™ frame arrives in a new, unprecedented colorway—complete with silver flames across the frame and temples, no-slip Unobtainium® earsocks for a secure fit, and Prizm™ Black lenses made to enhance color and contrast.

Dare to defy with the MUZM Straight Jacket 99, available starting April 30 on Oakley.com and at select Oakley stores and partners worldwide.

Oakley’s Rebel Returns: The MUZM Straight Jacket 99 Is Back via 360 MAGAZINE.

Joe Jonas – Heart By Heart

VEVO LIVE

Gearing up for a bold creative era, GRAMMY® Award-nominated singer, songwriter, actor, producer, and global superstar Joe Jonas unveils his new single “Heart By Heart” out today—listen HERE. “Heart By Heart” paves the way for his forthcoming solo album Music For People Who Believe In Love on May 23rd via Republic Records. Pre-order / pre-save HERE.

Co-written with Lewis Capaldi, Savan [The Weeknd, Ariana Grande], Oscar Holter [DNCE, The Weeknd], and Max Gsus [Kim Petras, Tove Lo], “Heart By Heart” layers acoustic guitar and glistening keys over a bouncy beat. Against this sonic backdrop, Joe’s expansive range immediately captivates as he taps into raw emotion and delivers the song’s nostalgic lyrics with a palpable sense of longing. As the refrain takes hold, he sings, “Well if he don’t ever light your spark, remember I know your heart by heart…Just remember I will always remember.”

Yesterday, Joe and Heineken® announced a new collaboration with an exclusive event in New York City, where Joe debuted his new single “Heart By Heart” for the very first time in front of the offline crowd, instead of using digital channels. The performance was part of Heineken’s new #SocialOffSocials campaign, which aims to demonstrate that the best way to disconnect from the sometimes-overwhelming world of social media is to connect in real life. Joe also filmed part of his forthcoming music video at the event—stay tuned for its official premiere.

Joe initially kicked off his solo chapter with his singles “Work It Out” and “What This Could Be.” The latter was co-written by Joe alongside GRAMMY® Award-winning hitmaker Dan Nigro [Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan] and GRAMMY® Award-nominated singer-songwriter Feist. The tracks received critical praise from the likes of Rolling Stone, Variety, Entertainment Weekly, UPROXX, Grammy.com, and more, with Billboard proclaiming, “Jonas lands on a shimmery pop sound that synthesizes a wide array of influences, from garage-rock to alt-pop to ’90s country, while singing about navigating life’s uncertainties and finding gratitude amid loss.” Joe also worked alongside an exciting list of collaborators on the project, including Alexander 23, MUNA’s Josette Maskin, Feist, Dan Nigro, Justin Tranter, Jason Evigan, Tommy English, and Joel Little, with more collaborators and features to be revealed soon.

At the same time, Joe’s voice has continued to resound across culture. He notably joined forces with Latin GRAMMY®Award-winning phenomenon Ela Taubert on “¿Cómo Pasó? Con Joe Jonas,” which exploded with over 31 million Spotify streams and 18 million YouTube views. They also delivered a seismic performance of the track at the 2024 Latin GRAMMY® Awards. Plus, he teamed up with rising superstar Alex Warren on a duet version of his breakthrough smash “Burning Down” as well as appeared on buzzing country phenomenon Ashley Cooke’s “All I Forgot.”

Stay tuned for Music For People Who Believe In Love, out May 23rd.

JOE JONAS SOCIALS: INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER / X | WEBSITE

Jessie Murph + Uproxx

Jessie Murph to Headline UPROXX & Sparkling Ice’s ‘Sparkling Sessions 2.0’ Party during Stagecoach

UPROXX Studios and Sparkling Ice have announced that the next installment of ‘Sparkling Sessions’ will take place during this year’s Stagecoach Festival and feature a headlining performance by rising country-pop star Jessie Murph. Taking place on Saturday, April 26, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM PT at a Private Estate 2 Miles from Stagecoach, ‘Sparkling Sessions 2.0’ will offer festival-goers an exclusive desert getaway, with custom Sparkling Ice cocktails, Mexican food trucks, games, VIP experiences, swag, and DJ sets by Le Chev and Politik.

Building on the success of previous ‘Sparkling Sessions’ events at major festivals – including Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits – this latest installment promises an unforgettable experience just two miles from the Stagecoach Festival grounds. Part intimate concert series and part custom cocktail-infused dance party, the ‘Sparkling Sessions’ series has provided intimate fan experiences with artists such as Pink Sweat$, Teyana Taylor, Justine Skye, Zack Fox, THEBROSFRESH, and Dasha, bringing a shot of flavor and an undeniable energy to some of the biggest cultural celebrations.

The event is free to attend, but space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first-served basis. Guests must RSVP HERE to secure their spot and receive location details.

For more ‘Sparkling Sessions’ event updates, including behind-the-scenes moments and more, follow @UPROXX on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook.

Jessie Murph and Uproxx via Vaughn Lowery's 360 MAGAZINE.

Photos: Robert Scott Welch

KENDRICK + SZA KICK OFF THEIR GRAND NATIONAL TOUR IN MINNEAPOLIS

Last night, global artists Kendrick Lamar and SZA kicked off their Grand National Tour with a sold-out show at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.

Following a hits-filled DJ set by Mustard, Kendrick Lamar reunited with SZA for a set of era-defining anthems. Together, they brought to life a nearly 3-hour performance spanning songs from GNX, SOS Deluxe: LANA, DAMN., Ctrl, and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, including fan-favorite tracks like “tv off”, “peekaboo”, “Kill Bill”, “Snooze”, “All the Stars”, their #1 hit “luther”, and many more.

Presented by Live Nation, pgLang, and Top Dawg Entertainment, the 39-date Grand National Tour will continue on Wednesday, April 23rd in Houston, TX and continue across major stadiums throughout North America before heading to Europe and the UK this summer.

For more information on the tour and for tickets please visit grandnationaltour.com.

GRAND NATIONAL TOUR DATES:

Apr 23 – Houston, TX – NRG Stadium

Apr 26 – Arlington, TX – AT&T Stadium

Apr 29 – Atlanta, GA – Mercedes Benz Stadium

May 03 – Charlotte, NC – Bank of America Stadium

May 05 – Philadelphia, PA – Lincoln Financial Field

May 08 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium

May 09 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium

May 12 – Foxborough, MA – Gillette Stadium

May 17 – Seattle, WA – Lumen Field

May 21 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium

May 23 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium

May 24 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium

May 27 – Glendale, AZ – State Farm Stadium

May 29 – San Francisco, CA – Oracle Park

May 31 – Las Vegas, NV – Allegiant Stadium

Jun 04 – St. Louis, MO – The Dome at America’s Center

Jun 06 – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field

Jun 10 – Detroit, MI – Ford Field

Jun 12 – Toronto, ON – Rogers Centre

Jun 13 – Toronto, ON – Rogers Centre

Jun 16 – Hershey, PA – Hersheypark Stadium

Jun 18 – Washington, DC – Northwest Stadium

Jul 02 – Cologne, Germany – RheinEnergieSTADION

Jul 04 – Frankfurt, Germany – Deutsche Bank Park

Jul 05 – Frankfurt, Germany – Deutsche Bank Park

Jul 08 – Glasgow, UK – Hampden Park

Jul 10 – Birmingham, UK – Villa Park

Jul 13 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Johan Cruijff ArenA

Jul 15 – Paris, France – Paris La Défense Arena

Jul 16 – Paris, France – Paris La Défense Arena

Jul 19 – Cardiff, UK – Principality Stadium

Jul 22 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Jul 23 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Jul 27 – Lisbon, Portugal – Estadio do Restelo

Jul 30 – Barcelona, Spain – Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys

Aug 02 – Rome, Italy – Stadio Olimpico

Aug 06 – Warsaw, Poland – PGE Narodowy

Aug 09 – Stockholm, Sweden – 3Arena

Kendrick Lamar + SZA Minneapolis grand national tour opening captured by Greg Noire/pgLang via 360 MAGAZINE.

Photo credit – Greg Noire/pgLang

100 Years of Shaping Automotive History

Chrysler’s Century of Innovation

Chrysler is revving up for an exciting celebration marking 100 years of pioneering innovation and iconic vehicles that have shaped the American automotive landscape over the last century
Chrysler marks 100 years on June 6, 2025, and is kicking off its centennial at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) with a special three-vehicle display that showcases the brand’s iconic past, segment-leading present and bright future
1924 Chrysler Six, 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid and Chrysler Halcyon Concept will be spotlighted at NYIAS, which is marking its 125th anniversary
Original 1924 Chrysler Six on display is the same vehicle that debuted at the 1924 National Automobile Show in New York City
Details on Chrysler Century of Innovation events and initiatives will be shared and activated throughout the year, including showcasing 100 years of iconic vehicles and industry innovations
Chrysler Century of Innovation social media campaign will feature multi-part video series of iconic vehicles, concepts, innovations and moments from Chrysler’s 100 years
For more information on the Chrysler Century of Innovation celebration, visit Chrysler.com

Chrysler is celebrating a Century of Innovation, honoring 100 years of bringing to life groundbreaking Chrysler sedans, minivans, convertibles and crossover vehicles filled with innovative, first-ever features and technologies that have influenced culture, impacted the economy and contributed to Chrysler becoming a part of the fabric of automotive history.

“Chrysler holds a significant place in automotive history and culture and has been a symbol of innovation and resilience for 100 years,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler CEO. “It’s an entire century of innovation: from its introduction of the HEMI® V-8 engine to the creation of the minivan segment and Stow ‘n Go seating. As one of the original Big Three, Chrysler contributed to industrial growth and influenced culture with iconic vehicles like the Chrysler 300. Chrysler is more than just a car brand. It’s a key part of the automotive industry.”

Chrysler is kicking off its 100-year anniversary celebration on April 16-27, 2025, at the 2025 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), as the show celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. The Chrysler exhibit will include a special three-vehicle display that showcases the brand’s iconic past, segment-leading present, and bright future: the 1924 Chrysler Six, 2025 Chrysler Pacifica and Chrysler Halcyon Concept.

Chrysler celebrates the 100th year anniversary at the 125th NYIAS via 360 MAGAZINE. — The thin, clean, cross-car front LED headlamp of the Chrysler Halcyon Concept is adaptive, and centered by a new LED lit Chrysler Wing logo, first debuted on the Chrysler Airflow Concept.

Emotional Oranges – Candy Gum

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Following the explosive debut of ‘CANDY GUM,’ the first single from their highly anticipated debut album, global R&B-Pop duo Emotional Oranges deliver a bold new music video that transforms the track’s infectious energy into pure eye candy.

The video unites the dream team: Vali Porter of Emotional Oranges alongside the Grammy-nominated Jessie Reyez and multi-platinum Latin pop sensation Becky G. Inside a chic hotel suite, the trio capture lighting in a bottle as they get ready for a night on the town. They serve looks, spill tea, and bring the energy in every frame.

Directed by Iranian-born filmmaker Zhamak Fullad, the video reflects Emotional Oranges member Azad Naficy’s commitment to Middle Eastern representation and uplifting its creative voices. The result is a visual feast that channels early 2000s nostalgia with a futuristic twist. The band’s unmistakable sound is brought to life, set against the perfect backdrop for the track’s deep basslines, cheeky lyrics, powerhouse vocals, and undeniable groove.

“We’ve been sitting on this video for a minute, so it feels good to finally let it loose,” said Emotional Oranges. “Jessie and Becky pulled up and absolutely bodied it. There’s something about three powerful women talking their talk over funky basslines and pocket drums that just hits right. We knew the visual had to match that energy and this video feels like a fever dream you don’t want to wake up from. It made it even more meaningful to bring in Zhamak as an Iranian director to help tell the story. This whole album has been about locking in with people we respect and pushing the sound somewhere new. If this is your first taste, you’re in for a ride.”

Becky G shares, “Working with Vali and Azad is always a vibe, but this one hits different. From one LA artist to another, getting to put my grain of sand on their debut album means a lot. The second I heard this track, the bassline immediately pulled me in. I can’t wait for the fans to listen, they’re really gonna love this song. And, of course, props to my girl Jessie Reyez for going in on this one!”

Jessie Reyez adds, “I remember when I heard the music, I immediately felt bravado. It was instant. The music was very evocative of sexual confidence and of desire. So when I closed my eyes and opened my mouth, that’s exactly what came out. Yoni and Azad are great. The energy in the room felt right and shout out Val and Becky G for killing it.”

The drop builds on the momentum of ‘CANDY GUM’ and ‘Out The Blue’, both of which earned widespread acclaim and strong editorial support, including placements in Spotify’s R&B Weekly and Channel-X, and coverage from top outlets such as Wonderland, UPROXX, Notion, ET Online, The Line of Best Fit, TMRW, and Hunger. As Emotional Oranges gear up for their debut album, the duo continues to raise the bar and build a world that fuses sound, style, and culture like no one else.

“A striking creative evolution, “CANDY GUM” is drenched in sultry symphonies and pulsating Latin-pop influences.”

WONDERLAND

“A sultry blend of smooth vocals and irresistible grooves, ‘CANDY GUM’ sees Emotional Oranges link up with Jessie Reyez and Becky G for a genre-bending anthem.”

NOTION

“One of the great mysteries in life is just how Emotional Oranges always manage to sound this smooth.”

CONSEQUENCE

Follow Emotional Oranges

Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Credit: Matthew Magnus

Renaissance Man: Nick Brooks

Nick Brooks—an award-winning author, filmmaker, and musician whose storytelling spans literature, film, television, and music! Nick’s upcoming book, “Up in Smoke” is perfect for fans of Karen McManus and The Hate U Give, this edge-of-your-seat thriller from the author of the Promise Boys is a gripping, coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of a young man, caught between the weight of his family’s legacy and his own desire to carve a different path. Set in the heart of Washington, DC, the story explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complicated intersection of family and ambition. It’s a tale of resilience, ambition, and the search for freedom, set against the backdrop of a city that is as complex as the characters within it.

As of late, 360 MAGAZINE‘s Vaughn Lowery had an opportunity to interview this Renaissance man.

• My surrogate father lives on the Gold Coast in NW DC; however, I grew up inside the city of Detroit. How was your upbringing, any siblings, what side of town did you reside, and how has it helped shape you into the hu/man you have become?

I grew up in Northeast DC in the late ‘90s, early 2000s—so the city was still very much feeling the effects of the crack epidemic. Still is, honestly. My mom remarried when I was about 9 and had three more kids—my little sisters—so I was a very independent kid. My people had a lot going on. I was outside a lot, learning how to navigate a city like DC. My upbringing definitely taught me how to hustle, how to be nimble, how to be resourceful, and how to be relentless.

• Do you recall the date, time, and age when you realized you were a multi-hyphenated talent?

Yeah—yesterday. Lol. The thing about being a multi-hyphenate is it’s hard to get people to take you seriously in any one thing. They think you’re just throwing sh*t at the wall, seeing what sticks. Because of that, you start to take yourself less seriously—develop imposter syndrome. You start thinking, maybe I’m not good at anything. But the more I elevate in all the different things I do, the more confidence I get. I’m honestly still not convinced I’m a rapper—but I’m coming around.

• How important was it for you to graduate from USC film school in 2020? Any regrets?

The single most important thing I’ve done for my career. No regrets whatsoever.

• When were you bitten by the rap bug? Is there a scenario that you can speak to?

I vividly remember being captivated by rap around 5, listening to DMX’s It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot with my dad. After that, I would print out lyrics, copy them, and study them. I started writing around 14 and recorded my first song at 15. I remember leaving the studio, headed down Georgia Ave, putting on my headphones, and listening to what I just recorded. Hearing my voice back over the music was intoxicating. I’ve been hooked ever since.

• A ton of your prose prods and provokes your readers. Was this intentional? Are any of your titles loosely based on actual events?

For sure. You want your readers—or your audience in general—to react. To feel something. To have a thought, an emotion, a response. That’s the goal: engagement. It’s absolutely intentional. I wouldn’t say any of the stories are even loosely based on real events, but like all art, they’re inspired by the world around me.

• Many of your books have garnered attention from reputable entities. Did you always foresee this when you began your journey?

Not exactly—but it was always the goal. Anything I do, I want to do it at the highest level. Maybe that’s because I’ve always been searching for the kind of validation multi-hyphenates rarely get.

• Is there anything we haven’t mentioned that you’d like to shed light on?

Go preorder Up In Smoke! Go stream the album. Tap in with me and the journey—I’m doing a lot of cool stuff. I hope you take something away from the art. Thank you in advance.

• At this very moment, if you gave yourself permission to affirm yourself while looking in the mirror, what would you proclaim?

I am enough.

Author, filmmaker, rapper Nick Brooks via Vaughn Lowery's 360 MAGAZINE. — Evoto

INTRODUCING THE ROLLS-ROYCE CHESS SET

THE GRANDMASTER’S CHOICE

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Rolls-Royce introduces Rolls-Royce Chess Set, designed to be enjoyed in clients’ homes
Opens in a single theatrical motion, echoing the sense of occasion of a Rolls-Royce
Features hidden drawers and sculptural, ceramic-coated magnetized pieces
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail; the result of one year of design, engineering and experimentation
Available in four veneer finishes, with a choice of 13 leather colors
Celebrates and elevates the strategy game enjoyed by many Rolls-Royce clients

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presents the Rolls-Royce Chess Set, a contemporary expression of one of the world’s most revered games of strategy that transcends cultures and generations, echoing the spirit of hosting and shared experience that defines the marque’s other lifestyle offerings. The chess pieces are ceremoniously unveiled, capturing the same sense of occasion as the arrival of a Rolls-Royce motor car. Handcrafted using the marque’s signature materials and techniques, it offers numerous opportunities for individualization.

HIDDEN DRAWERS AND MAGNETISED PIECES

The Chess Set was designed to capture a sense of movement: the leather-clad base rises gently from the center, referencing the waft lines of the marque’s motor cars as it appears to float on its narrow footprint.

The playing board opens in a smooth, single theatrical motion to reveal a leather-lined holder that slowly elevates, presenting the magnetically held pieces – a movement reminiscent of the coach doors opening on a Rolls-Royce motor car. For an effortless experience, magnets hidden beneath the playing surface ensure the pieces remain perfectly aligned during play, lending each move a sense of precision and decisiveness. The design team experimented with six different types of magnets to identify the optimal strength that secures the pieces yet allows them to float effortlessly across the board. A discreet drawer on each side of the board, opened with a light touch, contains an additional queen to take the place of a piece that has been promoted during the game.

Both the generously sized board and the chess piece holder are framed with polished aluminum edges. A polished aluminum Spirit of Ecstasy emblem is discreetly affixed to the front and back of the Chess Set, signifying its provenance.

Each set is meticulously crafted by hand. The aluminum grid of the board is machine milled, then further refined by hand to achieve the precise definition of the corners – a delicate process, as the fine metal bends easily. The veneer squares are laser cut and then precisely placed on the board by hand. Each of the veneer pieces is crafted from the same log to achieve a consistent pattern in the natural grain, ensuring the wood will age uniformly over the years.

THE GRANDMASTER'S CHOICE: INTRODUCING THE ROLLS-ROYCE CHESS SET via 360 Magazine.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presents the Rolls-Royce Chess Set, a contemporary expression of one of the world’s most revered games of strategy that transcends cultures and generations, echoing the spirit of hosting and shared experience that defines the marque’s other lifestyle offerings.

Grand Wailea + Nobu

Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, announces the opening of a world-renowned Japanese restaurant, Nobu Grand Wailea Maui. Founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, the launch marks Nobu’s first restaurant on Maui – and second in Hawaii.

Taking center stage at the oceanfront resort, following its $350 million renovation, the expansive 13,000 square foot Nobu Grand Wailea Maui will deliver Chef Nobu’s signature Japanese dishes with South American influence alongside a selection of Maui-exclusive offerings.

With interiors by renowned architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, Nobu Grand Wailea Maui will present a dramatic space of grand proportions. Featuring indoor and al fresco dining, alongside a sushi bar and private dining space, the new location is a continuation of Japanese craft spanning more than three decades.

Signature offerings include local line-caught fish with black bean sauce, alongside Nobu favorites such as the iconic Black Cod with Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño, Rock Shrimp Tempura, and the acclaimed sushi synonymous with the brand.

Only available at the Grand Wailea location, diners will indulge with desserts including a tres leches cake featuring Hawaii’s beloved Kona Coffee, topped with a coffee gel, vanilla whipped cream and hazelnut praline crunch. The menu will also offer a delicate pavlova highlighting O’ahu’s Laie Vanilla, served with a blood orange sorbet.

“At Nobu, inventive cuisine and unparalleled service are at the heart of everything we do. We are thrilled to introduce Nobu’s signature style to Maui alongside a curation of dessert menu items that will be exclusive to the resort,” said Chef Nobu. “Grand Wailea is an iconic destination in Maui, and we’re honored to expand our brand’s footprint within one of Hawaii’s most prominent oceanfront hotels.”

“It’s a perfect synergy between the unparalleled luxury of Grand Wailea and the culinary experience that made Nobu a global phenomenon,” said JP Oliver, Area Managing Director, Grand Wailea. “This partnership elevates the resort to new heights, offering an extraordinary world-class destination for impeccable food and service.”

Brian Kaufman, Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “The opening of Nobu at Grand Wailea will mark another milestone in the transformation of this iconic property, providing guests and community members with an unforgettable experience. We are thrilled to add a world-renowned dining partner like Nobu.” Blackstone Real Estate acquired Grand Wailea in 2018.

Guests enter Nobu Grand Wailea Maui descending from a grand imperial staircase off the property’s spectacular open-air lobby. With 35-foot-high ceilings, the space honors the resort’s impressive scale with a light palette and textures inspired by shifting sands, palm trees, and nautical touchpoints. Perhaps the most striking element of the design is a dip-dyed indigo linen installation, which hangs above the main dining room, undulating to evoke the nearby ocean waves.

Inspired by Maui’s natural surroundings, Rockwell Group blended Nobu’s signature materials like black cerused wood, white onyx, and lacquered walnut burl with teak furnishings, which complement shades of blue, green, and neutrals. In addition to carved, organic and stacked forms, the restaurant features work by San Francisco-based contemporary artist Windy Chien. Raised in Hawaii, Chien created a custom-knotted rope installation presented in the main dining clerestory windows. Notably, the open-air space does not have air conditioning and is perfectly cooled by the ocean breeze.

Landscaping Manager, Jim Heid, takes care of over 600 species of plants on the sprawling 40-acre property. At Nobu Grand Wailea Maui, Heid showcases tropical Maui-native plants across the exterior arrival courtyard and lānai terraces, perfectly blending with Nobu’s vision.

Nobu launches at Grand Wailea under the direction of Executive Chef, Kyle Marston, whose new role marks a decade working with Chef Nobu. He was previously Executive Kitchen Chef at Matsuhisa Denver before joining Nobu Old Park Lane (London) as Head Chef. Marston will work alongside Head Sushi Chef, Bora Oh, previously of Nobu Malibu.

The new opening will grow the resort’s destination dining outlets, under the direction of Executive Chef, Ryan Urig. Olivine presents an oceanfront culinary destination that infuses local Hawaiian ingredients with authentic Italian flavors, whilst Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa offers a seafood and steakhouse restaurant highlighting fresh, sustainable ingredients.

The launch of Nobu Grand Wailea Maui coincides with the forthcoming opening of Nobu at fellow BRE property, the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

Grand Wailea is located at 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea-Makena, HI 96753-8443

Open Monday – Sunday for dinner service, 5pm until 10pm

Reservations via OpenTable

www.nobugrandwaileamaui.com | @nobugrandwailea