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).
A unique Super SUV equipped for police service unveiled at the Dubai Airshow
The Lamborghini Dubai dealership continues its successful collaboration with Dubai Police, delivering an Urus Performante before the end of 2023, the year that marked its 60th anniversary.
At a special ceremony held at Dubai Airshow 2023, Paolo Sartori, Regional Head, Automobili Lamborghini Middle East and Africa, handed over the keys to the marque’s Super SUV to Major General Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, acting commander-in-chief of Dubai Police. Paolo Sartori, added: “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Dubai Police, supporting them in their crucial public safety mission. Following our delivery of an Urus to the force in 2022, this new Urus Performante edition will be used to carry out a range of public duties and, above all, will help enhance the city’s security and safety, with this initiative further demonstrating our brand’s longstanding presence here in the UAE.”
Equipped with a twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 666 CV of power and 850 Nm of torque at engine speeds from 2,300 to 4,500 rpm, the Urus Performante guarantees 0 to 100 km/h (ca. 60mph) acceleration in just 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 306 km/h (ca. 190 mph).
Adapted to the needs of the police force, the Urus Performante entered service with the Dubai Police after a period of preparation and modifications of the car to adapt it to the work requirements of the police force.
The livery combines the classic colour green with white, with details on the bonnet and side doors featuring the police logo. The rear spoiler is fitted with a blue 360° LED light bar combined with an electric siren. The passenger compartment, on the other hand, has been customised with various essentials for the Dubai Police, including an armoured gun box, a fold-down message display, a special compartment in the boot for storing service equipment and a defibrillator for first aid response.
Commenting at the ceremony, General Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, acting commander-in-chief, of Dubai Police expressed his appreciation for the collaboration with Lamborghini Dubai. “The high-performance Super SUV was added as part of Dubai Police’s efforts to increase the number of patrol officers across Dubai. The new Lamborghini Urus Performante will support Dubai police in their commitment to better serve residents, maintain social safety and security, and provide services in popular tourist destinations.”
*Fuel consumption and emission values of Urus Performante; Fuel consumption combined: 14,1 l/100km (WLTP); CO₂-emissions combined: 320 g/km (WLTP)
In 2023, Rolls-Royce delivered 6,032 motor cars to clients across more than 50 countries worldwide. More than ever before in the marque’s 119-year history, the total number of commissions was in line with expectations of the luxury house. 2023 also saw a record level of Bespoke projects for the brand as all Rolls-Royce motor cars are hand-built at the marque’s home in Goodwood, UK. North America continued to deliver strong demand, not only in volume but more importantly in bespoke value. The United States remains the marque’s largest market.
Cullinan was the most commonly requested commission both in standard and Black Badge commissions for clients in North America and worldwide. Ghost remains popular and saw some of the most complex Bespoke and Collection projects ever, including Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis. Phantom remains the pinnacle member of the Rolls-Royce family, also seeing record levels of bespoke value and continued strong demand. Phantom Syntopia, the most technically complex Bespoke project ever for Rolls-Royce, was delivered in 2023.
Rolls-Royce unveiled Spectre to the world in October 2022, with first cars deliveries to North American clients only weeks ago. The first all-electric series Rolls-Royce in history has attracted enormous interest worldwide, particularly among younger clients, setting a clear direction of travel and establishing a solid foundation for the marque’s bold electric future.
GLOBAL & REGIONAL SALES
Rolls-Royce reports sales growth in the majority of the markets in which it operates, with deliveries reaching new record levels in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Europe regions.
The USA was Rolls-Royce’s single largest market worldwide, while Greater China remained the marque’s second-largest market. Record sales were achieved in Europe, where the UK is the largest single market. Record annual sales and year-on-year growth in the Asia-Pacific region were fueled by a strong performance in Korea, whose dynamic, vibrant economy is reflected in a rapidly expanding luxury market.
BESPOKE: DEFINING THE BRAND
Every motor car hand-built at the Home of Rolls-Royce includes some element of Bespoke, the company’s unique program offering personalization possibilities which are limited only by the client’s imagination. In 2023, Bespoke commissions reached new record levels by both value and number; the technical innovations required to deliver specific projects saw Rolls-Royce file several new patents during the year.
Bespoke projects completed in 2023 included many ‘firsts’ for the marque that were also technical innovations. These included the scent-release mechanism concealed in the headrests of Phantom Syntopia, which incorporated technology originally developed for medical applications, while many Bespoke paint finishes achieved in 2023 required entirely new materials, techniques, and formulations to achieve.
The year’s commissions also created new opportunities in the use of rare and beautiful materials and intricate craft techniques. These included: exquisite mother-of-pearl inlays for ‘The Pearl Cullinan;’ hand-perforated leather seats for Black Badge Cullinan Blue Shadow; Starlight Headliners incorporating mesmerizing celestial animations for Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis; and exquisite hand-painted Gallery artworks for Phantom ‘Inspired by Cinque Terre.’
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
In 2023, Rolls-Royce submitted plans for a major new investment to modernize and upgrade its manufacturing facilities. The plans will enhance and extend the marque’s Bespoke and Coachbuild capabilities as well as support production of its future all-electric product portfolio. This significant investment represents the single largest injection of new capital at the Home of Rolls-Royce since the site opened in 2003. This reflects the scale of the transformation in the company’s size, activities, commercial success, and global influence in the intervening two decades.
OUTLOOK
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars does not provide volume forecasts. According to Fritsches, “Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA already has a strong level of orders for 2024 including many intricate and complex Bespoke projects we hope to deliver to our North American clients in the coming year. Our quest is for ever-increasing value, not volume, of Bespoke Rolls-Royce commissions.”
TWENTY-FIVE TIME GRAMMY® NOMINEE COMPOSER GORDON GOODWIN STRIKES GOLD AGAIN WITH THREE NEW GRAMMY® NOMINATIONS.
The 66th Grammy® Award Nominations were announced on November 10, 2023. The astonishing surprise was three new nominations for Multi Grammy® Emmy Winning Composer/Arranger, Jazz Veteran Gordon Goodwin.
Nominations
• Best Jazz Vocal Album: Patti Austin Featuring Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band – For Ella 2.
• Best Instrumental Composition: Quartet San Francisco Featuring Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band – Cutey and The Dragon, Composed by Raymond Scott and Gordon Goodwin.
• Best Arrangement, Instruments, and Vocals: Patti Austin ft. Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band – April in Paris, Arranged by Gordon Goodwin.
Gordon is delighted that his current projects have been considered once again by The Recording Academy. He says, “25, I look at that number and it shocks me every time. I still find it difficult to believe that the members of
the Recording Academy have given me 25 Grammy® nominations for my work. I don’t think you ever get used to it and the three most recent nominations seem somehow more precious than ever. I had the good fortune to be involved in two projects that were close to my heart in the past year, and happily, both were acknowledged by the Recording Academy.”
Gordon is grateful for being nominated twice for his collaboration with Jazz phenom Patti Austin. She is jazz royalty; Patti Austin’s keen interest in being a total entertainer likely started when she stepped onto the stage of the world-famous Apollo Theater in Harlem at the age of four at the urging of music legend Dinah Washington. After a series of much-acclaimed albums for CTI Records, she signed with her godfather Quincy Jones’ Qwest label and began achieving mainstream success on an international level thanks to the GRAMMY® nominated hit “Baby Come To Me,” her now classic duet with James Ingram and the follow-up duet, the Oscar-nominated “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?” as well as her appearance on albums with Jones on his best-selling album Stuff Like That, his GRAMMY®–winning classic The Dude, and later, his From Q With Love Vols. 1& 2. The GRAMMY® nominated For Ella album opened new doors for Patti as a performer and her embrace by the jazz world was further cemented with her Grammy winning classic CD “Avant Gershwin: Now, after more than two decades of touring, her take on the classic American Song Book has expanded Patti’s appeal and garnered standing ovations all over the USA and Europe. Patti continues her philanthropic work with her mentoring organization, “The Over My Shoulder Foundation” and with Covid hopefully winding down she has resumed her touring schedule to the delight of fans all around the world.
Gordon is pleased to receive his composition nomination for “Cutey and The Dragon,” from the album Raymond Scott Reimagined, featuring Quartet San Francisco, Take 6 and the Big Phat Band. Goodwin took the unfinished work by Raymond Scott and completed it in a manner that honors Scott’s sophisticated yet playful style. Raymond neither received nor was nominated for a Grammy during his lifetime; the awards were launched in 1958, by which time Scott had largely stopped issuing commercial recordings. Raymond Scott was a composer, inventor, visionary, pianist, engineer, electronic music pioneer, control freak.
Gordon Goodwin was born in Wichita, Kansas, and Goodwin’s parents moved to Southern California when Goodwin was four. After completing his formal music education at Cal State University-Northridge, Gordon began working as a live performer at Disneyland and after a few years, he was commissioned to work on a musical that featured past and present Mouseketeers (including Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera). That exposure led to studio work with the likes of Quincy Jones, Mel Tormé, Ray Charles and legendary vocalist Johnny Mathis.
In 1999, Gordon founded the Big Phat Band for what he thought would be a single performance at his alma mater Cal State at Northridge. Since then, the Big Phat Band has recorded 10 albums, and in the process received 25 Grammy® nominations. Goodwin won a Grammy® for ‘Best Instrumental Arrangement’ for “Incredits” for the film The Incredibles and has been honored with 3 Emmy awards for his work on the Steven Spielberg-produced shows Animaniacs and Pinky and the Brain. His work has been featured/utilized in more than 80 film & TV productions spanning the gamut of pop culture: amplifying the likes of National Treasure, Star Trek: Nemesis, Snakes on a Plane, Get Smart, Remember the Titans, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, The Majestic (starring Jim Carrey), The Lion King, The Incredibles and Ratatouille.
Gordon has won four Grammy® Awards and three Daytime Emmy Awards and has received twenty-five Grammy® nominations for his compositions and arrangements.
Gordon’s discography includes Swinging For the Fences, XXL,
The Phat Pack, Act Your Age, That’s How We Roll, Life in the Bubble, Wrap This, A Big Phat Christmas, An Elusive Man, Joyful, The Gordian Knot, The Reset, Raymond Scott Reimagined, For Ella 2, w/Patti Austin, Music for Two Pianos (2024).
Gordon is also the host of the popular long-running radio program, “Phat Tracks with Gordon Goodwin,” airing for 5 years on KJAZZ, America’s jazz and blues station, and finishing its 2nd year broadcasting and streaming from its new home on San Diego’s Jazz 88.3 FM (KSDS). The weekly 2-hour show is a mix of music and stories and commentary.
Pianist, saxophonist, composer, arranger, and conductor – whatever it is Gordon Goodwin touches, it’s all about his love of music. The accolades and awards come, but for Gordon the feeling of gratitude for his life in music is strong, and he wouldn’t want it any other way.
“Listening to Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band, I was immediately taken by Gordon’s contemporary musical viewpoint, the dynamics of his “Big Phat Band,” its bevy of superb soloists, and the exhilaration of its sound.” – Quincy Jones.
Upcoming Shows
Jan 25 – Winter NAMM Show Concert, Anaheim, CA.
Jan 29 – Catalina Jazz Club Patti Austin/BPB Grammy Celebration Concert, Hollywood, CA.
March 2 – Studio Channel Islands Art Center, Camarillo, CA.
March 16 – Bonita Center For the Arts, La Verne, CA.
April 27 – Thousand Oaks Performing Arts Center, Thousand Oaks, CA.
May 4 – The Grape, Ventura, CA.
June 1 – International Trumpet Guild Concert, Anaheim, CA.
1. How has your family inspired you as a musician?
Gordon: My parents insisted that I take piano lessons as a little kid and that piano teacher was the first person to suggest I could write music myself. My first compositions, as lame as they were, were produced when I was in first grade. I owe that to my mom and dad, who nudged me in that direction very early.
2. What do the next 5 years look like musically?
Gordon: For me? I’ll just keep growing, keep playing and composing. If you do that, the rest follows.
3. Talk about any producer you have worked with.
Gordon: I have worked with some of the best, including Quincy Jones, David Foster and Phil Ramon, and have learned a lot from them all. I produce most of my own records, but have also used Gregg Field and Lee Ritenour as producers, and both of those guys have great chops and great taste.
4. Where do you get your ideas for subject matter for your project development?
Gordon: I mostly get inspired by other people’s efforts, which somehow triggers the urge to sit down and create. I hear someone’s song or symphony or read somebody’s book, or watch somebody’s movie and that inspires me. Creation requires effort – rarely is there a bolt out of the blue with that perfectly formed idea. It usually is a result of hours of craft.
5. What charities are you aligned with and why?
Gordon: I like to contribute to St. Jude’s because the idea of little kids with cancer really offends me. I also admire Doctors Without Borders and Habitat for Humanity.
6. What music projects will you be involved with in the future?
Gordon: I have a new record coming out next year called “Music For Two Pianos.” It’s a piano duet record where I play both parts. I created ten original pieces for this record, and the style is a jazz and classical hybrid. It was a blast to do and I enjoyed getting a stronger connection to the piano in the process. Other than that, I am working on a record for my wife Vangie Gunn, with mostly original tunes, I have a film I am scoring and have a new Big Phat Band record to compose and produce. It’s going to be another busy year!
7. Who are your biggest influences?
Gordon: There are way too many to mention. I believe in exposing yourself to as many people as you possibly can in order to widen your musical worldview. But if I had to make a short list, let’s go with Chick Corea, Michael Brecker, Cannonball Adderley, Bill Evans, John Williams, Igor Stravinsky, Claude Debussy and… this is too hard! Sorry for all of the incredible geniuses I just left out!
8. What advice would you give to a recording artist starting out?
Gordon: Practice your craft every day, even if it’s only for a short time. Commit to improving and know that it’s a long slow climb. Forget about overnight success. If you are serious about your music, you will realize that it’s a lifetime commitment.
No way can you figure it all out in your 20s, unless your music is based on youth, celebrity, and looks. One thing’s for sure: Mine isn’t!
9. Talk about your training in your early career, who have you trained with and why?
Gordon: I studied music in college where I learned orchestration, counterpoint, music history, conducting, things like that. But I also played in the jazz band and had a gig at a club every night where we played the music of Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind and Fire, and other Top 40 stuff. So, I got my education in the classroom and on the bandstand. I believe you need both of those elements. You play music with your brain and also your heart.
10. How do you take care of yourself, your health regime?
Gordon: Vangie and I walk almost every night. We try to go between 3-4 miles each night, depending on our schedule. Other than that, I do a fair amount of stretching and live a pretty clean life – no drinking, smoking or drugs. I never much liked or needed that stuff.
11. What is it about Raymond Scott that got you to do this current project?
Gordon: In the 90s I worked for Warner Brothers Animation and, at that time, I took a deep dive into the music of Raymond Scott and Carl Stalling, two compositional legends whose music really informed the style of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck Cartoons. So, when Jeremy Cohen offered me the opportunity to revisit this music on the Raymond Scott Reimagined project, I jumped.
12. What musician did you admire as a child?
Gordon: My first musical hero was Herb Alpert. I loved the Tijuana Brass! I even had my own Tijuana Brass band when I was in 4th grade. And now as an adult, I find myself being friends with Herb and recently wrote some charts for a new record he is releasing. Life is funny that way, and I am amazed when I get a call from this amazing man, knowing that he was such an influence for me at a formidable time in my life.
13. What do you do to relax?
Gordon: I love Hawaii and try to get there each year or so. I love to read and lately have been digging into podcasts.
14. What other business strategies do you plan on starting to promote your brand?
Gordon: There’s a tough one. The music business is in terrible shape and when I started the Big Phat Band in 2000, I thought it was bad THEN! Little did we know that almost every category of the music business would continue to degrade. I am less and less optimistic about the future of music in our country because, since consumers have decided, they shouldn’t have to pay for it, there is little reason for people to dedicate their lives to something that will not allow them to make a living and raise a family. We have some serious catching up to do, and it all starts with arts education in the schools, which is on the cutting block in many institutions.
15. What’s the one thing you think everyone could do to make the world a more positive place?
Gordon: I believe it starts with building empathy for others, and the best way to develop empathy is to gain an understanding of the arts. Music – at least music of content – teaches us how to empathize. Other than that, make it a point to find the good in the world, to find your sense of gratitude for what you have and to do something nice for someone else each day. Pretty simple, as it turns out.
16. What would you be doing if you were not a musician?
Gordon: I have no earthly idea. I have no other skill set! I do have a pretty good understanding of human behavior, but the thought of not getting up each day and engaging with music? Nope. No way.
17. What was your first memory of hearing great music?
Gordon: I remember watching The Mickey Mouse Club television program as a really young kid, and that theme song may have been the first time I was aware of a thing called music. After that, probably the Bugs Bunny and Tom and Jerry cartoons I would watch had some amazing music.
18. What do you want to leave as your legacy?
Gordon: Some projects I do for money. Some projects I do for musical satisfaction. Sometimes those things intersect, but either way, I go in all the way and commit to making the music the best it can be. Sometimes the music is pretty easy to play, other times it is really challenging to play, but I just go where the music demands. I hope people remember my music as being informed by a positive and optimistic worldview.
19. How do you overcome challenges in your career?
Gordon: It can be frustrating at times, but I remember that I am a lucky man and have had extremely good fortune to have music in my life. On my worst day, when I am composing music that I may dislike, just because a producer or director wants it, I remember that a million people would trade places with me in an instant. Hang on to your gratitude, things always work out!
20. Is there anything in your careers that you wish you could do again?
Gordon: I never consider this question, except to remember to learn from each experience.
21. What is the best thing about being nominated for another Grammy?
Gordon: Grammy Nominations are awesome and really gratifying! It is thrilling to see your name on that list! But the truth is that you probably won’t sell more records with a Grammy win, never mind after a nomination. It doesn’t make your music any better, nor does NOT being nominated make your music any worse. But what it can sometimes do, is enable you the chance to keep doing what you are doing – writing more songs, recording more music, doing more gigs. That is the true value of the Grammy experience.
22. What was it like working with Patti Austin?
Gordon: Patti is a living legend. She is more than a really good singer; she is an extraordinary musician. I have never once seen her get stumped by a musical problem. Plus, she is absolutely hilarious! A real joy to work with and it is one of the great honors of my life that she chose to work with me on “For Ella 2.”
23. What’s it’s like to work with The Big Phat Band?
Gordon: I started the Big Phat Band in 2000, and since that time, it has brought balance to my life. Having musicians of that quality is a great luxury for a composer, and there has been nothing, not anything at all in 23 years – that they haven’t nailed on the first take. Many of them are lifelong friends and it is a privilege to take the stage with them.
As of late, Vaughn Lowery has had a sit-down with prolific personality and uber talented musician Hayes Warner. After a turbulent year filled with provocative single releases and achievements, she elaborates on her whirlwind.
2023 was a big year with a lot of fun releases including your latest “Worst Time or Year.” What are you the most proud of and what are you looking forward to in 2024?
2023 has been an amazing year for me since I’ve gotten to really focus on making music. I’ve spent a lot of time in the studio putting finishing touches on my debut EP that I’ll be releasing this year. I’m definitely most proud of this upcoming music because I think the whole project really reflects who I am – there’s a lot of sarcastic humor, sprinkled in with some light-hearted sassiness, but also there are some really vulnerable songs on there. I think each song kind of dives into different sides of my personality.
In terms of what I’m looking forward for 2024, I am SO excited to get out on the road and perform these new songs. I’ve secured some super exciting show dates that I can’t wait to announce.
Speaking of “Worst Time or Year” I feel like a lot of people can really relate to that sentiment in relation to the holidays. Can you tell us a bit about your personal inspiration for that song?
I wrote “Worst Time of Year” after a series of failed attempts at creating a typical Christmas song. I gave the cheerful, jingle-bell rock anthems a shot, but the lyrics felt super forced and stupid. So “Worst Time a Year ” came about when I started writing my honest feelings about the holidays. The holidays can be a real struggle for people with weird family situations, and this song delves into what that experience looks like for me. There’s this strange societal expectation to seem perfect during the Holidays, especially when it comes to spending time with family. With “Worst Time of Year” I had a lot of fun lightheartedly making fun of that fake perfection. Obviously no judgment to people who love the holidays, I just love that “Worst Time of Year” lets me be sassy about my anti-holiday spirit :).
From whom or from where did you gain your musicality from? Who are some of your musical inspirations?
I think New York has really instilled a go-getter energy in me, and that fast-paced mentality has definitely influenced my songwriting. Growing up, I honestly used to stupidly strut around the city aimlessly with my headphones in and write lyrics to my next song. So New York is really ingrained in my music, and I think the rapid energy of the city translates into my songs.
Also growing up, I was a HUGE fan of P!nk, Avril Lavigne, Kes$ha, Joan Jette, and other Pop and Punk-Rock musicians. I’m really inspired by the no-nonsense attitude of their music – it’s like ear candy with a side of deep wisdom.
You started writing music at such a young age. Can you tell us a bit about how you got started and your process?
Growing up, I always listened to music as a way to cope with feelings, and so I think that writing songs was just the natural next step to dealing with emotions. I had this tiny keyboard in my room during middle school, and that’s where I kicked off my songwriting journey, even if those early songs were cringe-worthy at best. I became obsessed with songwriting, and still can’t believe I get to do it as a job now.
My writing process is pretty flexible and depends on the song and my mood. There are moments when a killer concept or lyric strikes, and I immediately jot it down in my notes app. Alternatively, I might spontaneously record a melody on my voice memos app – some of these morph into full-fledged songs, while others are just shower thoughts. Or, I’ll sit at the piano, tinkering with chords until I find something that sticks. In those instances, the melody takes the lead, and the lyrics follow suit.
We saw you recently worked with Loren Gray on your song “Breadcrumbs.” What was that like?
Working with Loren was the best. She’s so funny, and we have the best time joking around, but she’s also so professional. I really think we nailed a balance between having fun and getting things done. The whole process of making Breadcrumbs was by far my favorite project ever, and we’ve become super close friends through collaborating.
Loren and I met when we both found out we were unknowingly being cheated on by the same person. So, we turned that wild situation into “Breadcrumbs.” What I love about the song is that the whole playful vibe we had making the song totally shines through. It’s like our fun energy got baked right into the track.
Can you mention a few artists on your wishlist to work with in the near future?
I have been obsessed with Chappell Roan’s newest album, The Rise and Fall of A Midwest Princess. I would LOVE to collaborate with her. I would also die to collaborate with Hayley Williams and Paramore. I’m absolutely obsessed with her energy on stage. She has such a powerful voice, and is able to belt out crazy notes while bopping around the stage with so much energy.
Is there any words of encouragement or advice you can offer an aspiring recording artist?
I think the best advice that people gave me when I first started releasing music was to stop caring about other peoples’ judgements. Self-criticism is already on autopilot, and stressing over opinions can straight-up paralyze you. At the end of the day, what matters is making music that’s authentic to you. Sure, not everyone might jump on your vibe when you drop a song, but the right audience will find it if it’s authentically you. Letting go of people’s opinions is so much easier said than done. I mean, I’ve stumbled upon a few nasty comments on my TikTok that definitely took me back. But being a recording artist has become so much more fun the second I let go of other people’s opinions and became more of myself!
The Claremont Lewis Museum of Art will present a public program on Thursday, January 18, at 5:00 pm. “Face to Face in Conversation,” will feature artist Ken Gonzales-Day and Erika Hirugami, Founder & CEO of Curator Love, Co-Founder of the UNDOC+Collective and professor at Claremont Graduate University. They will discuss their respective projects and the past, present, and future of cultural representation. More conversation and refreshments to follow the presentation.
The exhibition Face to Face: Ken Gonzales-Day presenting photographs that explore the history of race and its representation will be on display through January 21 at the Claremont Lewis Museum of Art in the historic Claremont Depot at 200 W. First Street. For more information, visit http://clmoa.org.
French designer and founder Julian O’Hayon has hit a home run with the Blvck Baseball Jacket. The monochromatic design makes this one of the most effortless yet chic pieces for any male’s wardrobe. This is a staple item that can be dressed up or down. From Equinox to an epic night on the town, this stunning piece features monogrammed lining, leather sleeves, a signature emblem, and snake embroidery on the front. The size is accurate, and the fit is tailored.
*Featured image of mixed media artist and mogul Vaughn Lowery.
AOHSOA
An edgy fashion capsule from Ace of Haze, Style of Ace presents a nostalgic twist. Their black varsity jacket is an ultra-limited edition and offers bespoke finishings upon request. Modestly priced at $400 with a large logo patch on the back and an embroidered wrist band. The black and gold motif is reminiscent of the first intercollegiate fraternal association of Divine Nine, Alpha Phi Alpha, which was founded at Cornell University on December 6, 1906.
LOUIS VUITTON
Pharrell Williams brings his own unique play on colors, reimagining Louis Vuitton heritage emblems, patterns, and stylings. The collection illustrates the connective power of travel through nautical themes with hints of surfing and tropical floral prints, making the wardrobe easily celebrated across continents. Made up of sailor like silhouettes and exaggerated sandals and sneakers inspired by the formality of loafers, the wardrobe transports the modern-day working man from formal to beach.
GUCCI
Gucci unveils an innovative iteration of its heritage Horsebit 1955 bag, transformed through an asymmetrical aesthetic and brought to life in Demetra—an innovative animal-free material that combines quality, softness, and durability—in collaboration with iconic musical artist Billie Eilish, who is known for her bold advocacy.
DOLCE&GABBANA
Since its inception, D&G has continued to pay tribute to the color black. The impact of well-made outerwear will last. Nicely paired with a white button-down shirt and skinny tie. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana continue to stay ahead of the trend within the luxury segment with bold statement pieces that are durable and hold their value while continuing to emphasize sustainability.
Investigation Discovery, the leading true crime network, announced today the return of DEATH BY FAME for an all-new season this January, exploring more shocking true stories behind the rise, fall and murder of some of Hollywood’s most promising stars. Stories include the murders of “Jam Master Jay” of Run-D.M.C., actress Tara Correa-McMullen of Judging Amy, lawyer-turned-legal reality TV star Loredana Nesci and the suspicion surrounding the death of singer James Brown and the murder of his son-in-law, among others. Featuring criminal trial attorney Sara Azari as she reprises her role to provide expert commentary on each case, the second season premieres Monday, January 22 at 9/8c on ID.
Behind the bright lights of stardom lies a dark and sinister side of Hollywood where murder is the main character. Though Tinseltown promises glitz and glamour, these stars’ stories end very differently. In the eight-episode new season of DEATH BY FAME, both rising stars and beloved icons meet a disturbing fate, whether through their own untimely death or acts of evil committed by their own hands. These stories have become their own Hollywood legends, often leaving more questions than answers.
The premiere episode, “A Rising Star Shot Down,” recountsthe tragic tale of Tara Correa-McMullen, a young actress known for her role as Graciela Reyes on the television series Judging Amy. At just 15 years-old, Correa-McMullen rose to fame from the tough streets of Los Angeles, starring alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest actors and actresses. But a romance with the wrong person takes her down a dangerous path, and out of the spotlight forever.
Additional episodes this season explore the decades-old murder of musician Jason William Mizell, aka “Jam Master Jay” of the famed hip hop group Run-D.M.C., executed inside his recording studio; the death of singer James Brown, which some suspected to be murder and became further complicated by the subsequent shooting death of his son-in-law; Blake Leibel, an intern to comedian Jim Jefferies who led a flashy life – until he was convicted of a grisly murder; lawyer-turned-legal reality TV star Loredana Nesci who went from the spotlight to stabbing victim; Joseph Son, who starred in Austin Powers and carved out a career playing bad guys until his DNA was linked to a cold case, and more.
DEATH BY FAME is produced for ID by Ample Entertainment.
About INVESTIGATION DISCOVERY (ID)
Investigation Discovery (ID) is the leading true crime network on television, delivering the highest-quality programming to more than 70 million U.S. households. For exclusive web content and bonus material, fans can follow ID onTwitter,Instagram, andFacebook or check out the network’s true crime blog, CrimeFeed. Investigation Discovery is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, Max, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Film Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, Warner Bros. Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de HGTV and others. For more information, please visit www.wbd.com.
SELENEE, the avant-garde luxury fashion brand, is captivating the fashion scene with its latest ‘I’ Collection—a remarkable blend of nature-inspired designs and cutting-edge technology. With an unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the unconventional, SELENEE is set to make waves at New York Fashion Week 2024.
At the core of the ‘I’ Collection is a celebration of individuality and a bold departure from conventional fashion norms. SELENEE’s artistic director, MT Yang and chief designer Claire Zhao, have ingeniously crafted each piece to tell a story of liberation and empowerment. Drawing inspiration from the historic confinement of women’s legs in crinolines during the Middle Ages, the collection symbolizes a contemporary liberation, with designs that empower women to break free from societal constraints and return to their authentic nature.
The ‘I’ Collection introduces an innovative 480-degree inward rotating sleeve structure, utilizing materials like medical silicone gel, fine-spun fabric wool, metal, and distinctive handmade and 3D printed elements. The result is a visually stunning and unique style that seamlessly blends contrasting materials and techniques.
SELENEE’s ‘I’ Collection runway & backstage debut at LAFW
Black takes center stage as the primary color, chosen strategically by Yang and Zhao to convey a sense of power and vitality within the simplicity and elegance of the hue. Neutral tones, metallic accents, and contrasting colors are skillfully incorporated to achieve a harmonious balance in every detail, creating a collection that is both visually striking and conceptually rich.
SELENEE’s dedication to responsible and sustainable practices shines through in their choice of materials and production methods. The brand’s ethos aligns with a broader commitment to challenge the status quo and embrace innovation, not only in design but also in the quest for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Join SELENEE on a journey of restoration, revival, and rebirth, as they represent those who dare to challenge the norm, embracing the authentic pursuit of dreams through innovative abreathtaking designs.
With more than 31 million TikTok views, 4.7 million “likes,” and overwhelming demand from fans online, Memphis-bred rap star NLE Choppa is celebrating this holiday unwrapping his much-anticipated new music video “Pistol Paccin” featuring breakout Texas rapper BigXThaPlug via NLE Entertainment/Warner Records. Listen HERE and watch the music video HERE.
Tis’ the season of giving so NLE Choppa personally donated toys, clothes, and books to more than 300 hundred kids from his Parkway Village hometown in Memphis. “I’m just living my purpose, doing what God would want me to do. He blessed me to be able to bless others,” said the multi-platinum rapper. Memphis Mayor-elect Paul Young attended the event to give his support to Choppa saying, “these are the type of feel-good moments our city needs.” Watch the full FOX 13 news clip HERE.
From the jump, NLE Choppa’s flow leaves this soundscape in flames as the chantable chorus takes hold, “Pistol paccin, never lackin’, run up.” BigXThaPlug counters with a catchy and quotable verse punctuated by his laidback delivery and signature tone. In the accompanying visual, they dominate at an arena size basketball court, rapping right to the camera with clear intent. Filled with animated graphics and “meme-able” moments, the clips place them center court as the new generation’s champions!
“Pistol Paccin” just continues a hot streak for NLE Choppa. He recently uncovered the latest installment of his celebrated multi-platinum “Shotta Flow” series, “Shotta Flow 7.” Listen HERE and watch the music video HERE.
It vaulted to #13 on the TikTok Viral Music Chart with 156K “creates” to date. The music video also notably cracked the Top 30 on YouTube upon release. Plus, it has already gathered 14.6 million streams in addition to 3.3 million YouTube views.
The ”Shotta Flow” series has impressively generated over 687.8M global streams and nearly 1B views. It kicked off in 2019 with “Shotta Flow,” which went triple-platinum and spawned a double-platinum Remix featuring BLUEFACE. “Shotta Flow 2” and “Shotta Flow 3” also both reached platinum status. “Shotta Flow 6” served as the opener to his acclaimed 2022 album, Me vs. Me, which posted up 111M global streams and counting, in addition to over 30M YouTube views on the music video.
Earlier this fall, NLE Choppa dropped Cottonwood 2: Deluxe 2.0. He added nine brand new tracks to his 2023 opus Cottonwood 2, offering the definitive vision of this body of work. Listen HERE.
He preceded Cottonwood 2: Deluxe 2.0 with his very first short film, Nightmare On Cottonwood. NLE Choppa personally co-directed Nightmare On Cottonwood alongside Ben Marc. Additionally, he attracted an all-star supporting cast to bring everything to life, including Kai Cenat, DDG, Sukihana, and Funny Marco, among others. Nightmare On Cottonwood showcases his influence as a true hometown hero and sees him evolve again—it’s no wonder GQ christened him “one of the biggest names in rap.” Watch HERE.
