DAYLIGHT Beach Club, located at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, jump-started Sunday’s festivities with hip-hop icon Fat Joeperforming Sunday, May 29. American model and television personality Amber Rose, sports journalist Jemele Hill, actor and comedian Bill Bellamy and hip-hop artists Uncle Luke, afounding member of 2 Live Crew, and N.O.R.E., also surprised partygoers with appearances at the beach club. Later that night, LIGHT Nightclub inside Mandalay Bay hosted singer, songwriter and actor Miguel for a rousing performance where Chance the Rapper was in attendance to showhis support. Earlier in the weekend, rap artist and singer Don Toliver gave an electrifying performance at LIGHT, Saturday, May 28.
Fat Joe arrived at DAYLIGHT late Sunday afternoon and took the stage around 5 p.m. for a show that had the crowd on its feet and dancing to his biggest hits. The GRAMMY-nominated and certified platinum selling artist performed a mix of his most recognizable songs including Lean Back and What’s Luv? Joined by N.O.R.E., Hill and Bellamy, the group of celebrities sang All the Way Up before Uncle Luke took the stage for a surprise performance of 2 Live Crew’s Yakety Yak Rose came on stage to support the performers and waved to fans throughout the set. While at the popular beach club, the group sipped on Ace of Spades Brut Champagne, Hennessy, Cîroc and Clase Azul tequila.
Following on Sunday night, singer and songwriter Miguel joined LIGHT Nightclub for a 40-minute performance of some of his most popular singles. Arriving around 12:30 a.m. with his wife and several friends, Miguel, in distressed jeans, white cutoff t-shirt and bomber jacket, went straight to the DJ booth where he was seen dancing and engaging with both DJ Five and the crowd. Shortly before 2 a.m., Miguel took over the microphone, singing Sure Thing,Don’t Forget My Love, Adorn, and Skywalker among others which had the crowd grooving late into the night. During the set, hip-hop superstar Chance the Rapper arrived at the nightclub where he sang along to Miguel’s music while drinking Casamigos Blanco.
Don Toliver lit up Saturday night, arriving at LIGHT around 1:30 a.m., he was joined by his girlfriend and “Telepatía” singer Kali Uchis, Travis Scott’s parents Wanda and Jaques Webster as well as a large group of friends. Toliver headed straight to the DJ booth upon arrival before he took the stage for a stellar 45-minute performance including hit songs Lemonade, After Party, No Idea, among others that combined reach more than 2 billion plays on Spotify. Toliver’s performance was a full production including a keyboardist and a DJ. The group enjoyed sipping on Don Julio 1942, Casamigos Blanco and Moet champagne throughout the evening. Toliver departed the club shortly after his performance around 3 a.m.
LIGHT is open from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday nights and has provided guests with a world-class experience combining a state-of-the-art sound system with massive LED screens since opening in 2013. Since reopening its doors in February, the nightclub has hosted performances by Wyclef Jean, Sam Hunt, Iggy Azalea and Ludacris, LIGHT continues the star-studded lineup in June with Lucky Daye and 6LACK among other talent to be announced. For more information, including admission and VIP pricing, please go HERE.
Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, DAYLIGHT Beach Club is the place to be for a luxuriously entertaining pool experience with its 50,000-square-foot space including a 4,400-square-foot main pool and two additional private pools for cabana guests. DAYLIGHT is also open from 10 p.m. to close on Friday and Saturday nights for its popular “DAYLIGHT at Night” parties. For more information, including special event pricing or to make reservations, please visit daylightvegas.com or call 702-632-4700.
Spanning 50,000 square feet at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, DAYLIGHT Beach Club offers a picturesque resort beach club experience with a massive main pool as well as two private pools for cabana guests. For an elevated beach club experience, DAYLIGHT offers daybeds, banquettes and bungalows, available with reservations. DAYLIGHT’s exceptional hand-crafted cocktails, poolside bites and VIP bottle service come together with a stellar roster of international DJs and performing artists. DAYLIGHT is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday as well as 10 p.m. to close on Friday and Saturday nights for “DAYLIGHT at Night.” More information is on the website at www.daylightvegas.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
LIGHT Nightclub at Mandalay Bay merges cutting-edge creativity with popular music to produce unrivaled nightlife entertainment. LIGHT’s DJs play a wide range of popular hits with performers and dancers immersing the crowd in a pulsating party vibe set to state-of-the-art sound and lighting. LIGHT’s massive LED screens captivate the senses and a world-class sound system keeps energy high. LIGHT is open from 10:30 p.m. – 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday nights. More information is available on their website HEREand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
THE 2ND ANNUAL BIGGIE DINNER GALA PRESENTED BY LEXUS AND PEPSI, LIL KIM
Honoring The Notorious B.I.G’s 50th Birthday Celebration at Guastavino’s in New York City
Presented by Lexus and Pepsi, Lil Kim honored the iconic rapper in New York City fashion with a star studded event paid homage to B.I.G. The biggest names in hip hop gathered last night, Friday May 20th, 2022 to celebrate what would be Biggie’s 50th birthday. The 2nd Annual Biggie Dinner Gala at Guastavino’s (409 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022) honored Biggie’s legacy with a star studded black tie gala and concert with performances of Biggie’s most insatiable hits.
Industry titans and family members including Lil’ Kim, Lil’ Cease, Junior M.A.F.I.A., CJ Wallace, T’yanna Wallace, Fat Joe, Havoc, Sway, Smif-N-Wessun, Tek and Steele, Prayah, Ceaser Emanuel of Black Ink Crew, and more gathered to celebrate B.I.G.
Featuring performances of Biggie’s most prolific hits, the night recognized him as the greatest rapper of all time. His contribution reverberates through hip hop–inspiring countless generations. His prolific legacy is emblazed in pop culture history. Long live B.I.G!
Fans can get a behind the scenes look at the explosive event tonight (May 21, 2022) at 7PM on Biggie Smalls and Lil’ Kim’s official Instagram pages and Lil Kim’s YouTube. The event was powered by Culture Creative, the Black-owned Emmy Award Winning agency established to connect brands with emerging cultural marketing places through new and innovative ways of authentic storytelling.
Actum LLC, the fastest growing public strategy firm in the United States, today announces Ruben Diaz Jr. has joined the company as Co-Chair.
The former Bronx Borough President and New York State Assemblymember brings unprecedented experience and a deep network to Actum’s leadership team and valuable guidance on the inner workings of government for clients.
As Co-Chair, Diaz Jr. adds to Actum’s formidable capabilities in government, communications and activation of communities of color and will offer key insight into the political landscape of New York and across the country.
“Actum is building an extraordinary platform that drives outcomes for clients while elevating the voices of communities of color. In less than a year, it has established itself as a global powerhouse, a direct result of its strong core values and quality people leading each client engagement. I am honored to join this team and help the company grow,” said Ruben Diaz Jr.
“Ruben was a transformational Borough President who united diverse communities to usher in a new era for the Bronx. Thanks to that work, the borough is today a booming global destination. His leadership, vision, and bridge-building skills will be an asset to Actum, which has quickly established itself as one of the leading coalition builders in Black and Brown communities. We are happy to welcome Ruben to our team,” said Rachel Noerdlinger, Partner at Actum.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ruben to our team and know he will make an immediate impact on our company and clients. Actum’s strategists have served in the highest levels of government, media and business and translate that high level experience to outcomes for clients. Ruben’s addition to our team is further evidence that we are building something different at Actum,” said Michael McKeon, Partner at Actum.
“I am happy to congratulate Ruben on this incredible opportunity. He is already a force in the Black and Brown community and my brother will continue to build opportunities for us in his role as Chairman at Actum,” said Fat Joe, hip hop legend, Bronx community advocate and longtime friend of the Borough President.
“Ruben is a tremendous addition to the Actum team. He is an icon in the Bronx and a respected statesman in national politics. The same innovation and creativity he brought to the Borough President’s office will bring real value to Actum and its clients,” said Antonio Villaraigosa, Co-Chair at Actum and former Mayor of Los Angeles.
“Actum’s national Black and Brown public affairs team, led by Rachel Noerdlinger and supported by Fabian Nunez, Antonio Villaraigosa and a cadre of young, talented professionals, just got even stronger with Ruben’s addition,” said the Rev. Al Sharpton, who earlier this year tapped Diaz as a board member for the National Action Network. “Whether it is standing up for the people of Vieques, Puerto Rico who endured generational damage from Navy bombing exercises, fighting for justice for the family of Amadou Diallo, or moving the Bronx forward as a City and State elected official, Ruben makes a difference in whatever endeavor he undertakes. His hiring solidifies Actum’s position as the go-to team for public affairs.”
About Actum
Actum is not a public affairs company, or a PR firm, or a lobbying shop. Actum is a global consulting firm, built to deliver highly meaningful and measurable outcomes for our clients around the world. Our capabilities in strategy, management, execution, communications, government relations, storytelling and narrative development, digital and social media, advocacy mobilization, special groups, political consulting, public opinion research and data, are all best in class, because our people are best in class. For our clients, we provide seasoned and experienced advisors and partners, from the highest levels of government, media, business, advocacy, politics, technology and special groups, who will lead teams of subject matter experts to deliver exceptional, measurable value and outcomes.
Drai’s Beachclub • Nightclub at The Cromwell has revealed a star-studded April lineup, which includes full-length Drai’s LIVE performances by top artists French Montana, Lil Baby, Rick Ross, TI, Juicy J, Nelly and more. April will also bring Meek Mill‘s first Drai’s Las Vegas performance of his new residency. Artists including Wiz Khalifa, DaBaby and Rick Ross join a jam-packed entertainment roster at Drai’s Beachclub. In addition, as the Las Vegas Strip prepares to host the GRAMMYs and the Draft for the first time, Drai’s has expanded their schedule, with the Nightclub once again hosting performances every Sunday night and Drai’s Beachclub now open weekends Friday through Sunday and set to open daily starting in May.
Throughout April, Drai’s Beachclub will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday through Sunday. Drai’s Nightclub will be open from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., Friday through Sunday.
TI: The three-time Grammy award winner has released several highly successful singles including hits such as “Whatever You Like” and “Live your life” featuring Rihanna. He has also collaborated with some of today’s hottest artists such as Jeezy and Gucci Mane.
Wiz Khalifa: A multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Golden Globe-nominated recording artist, Khalifa is known for hits such as “We Dem Boyz” and “Black and Yellow.”
Nelly: Ranked by the Recording Industry Association of America as the fourth best-selling rap artist in American music history, rap veteran Nelly has sold over 21 million albums in the United States.
Lil Baby: The artist has recently been awarded the title of “Best Male Hip-Hop Artist” at the 2021 BET Music Awards, and his album, My Turn, won “Hip-Hop Album of the Year” at the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Drai’s Nightclub is bringing the heat this January. Mega-star artists like Rae Sremmurd, French Montana and many more will take over the stage every weekend to put on explosive full-length performances as part of the Drai’s LIVE concert series. Drai’s LIVE offers fans an up-close and personal experience with some of today’s biggest stars for phenomenal full-length performances in an experience unlike any other on The Strip.
The Drai’s Nightclub lineup for January is listed below.
Rae Sremmurd consists of real-life brothers Slim Jxmmi and Swae Lee. The duo has released platinum-certified singles such as “No Type,” “No Flex Zone” and “Swang,” as well as their first album, “SremmLife,” also reaching platinum status.
Three-time Grammy award winner, TI, has released several highly successful singles including hits such as “Whatever You Like” and “Live your life” featuring Rihanna. He has also collaborated with some of today’s hottest artists such as Jeezy and Gucci Mane.
Ranked by the Recording Industry Association of America as the fourth best-selling rap artist in American music history, rap veteran Nelly has sold over 21 million albums in the United States.
Drai’s Nightclub is open Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Tickets and VIP table reservations are available on the website HERE.
About Drai’s Beachclub ✕ Nightclub
Drai’s Beachclub ✕ Nightclub takes entertainment and nightlife to new heights in an unmatched setting – 11 stories high on the rooftop of The Cromwell with dazzling views of the Las Vegas Strip. Drai’s Beachclub is a 30,000-square-foot oasis with multiple pools shaded by 10 towering palm trees, a variety of cabanas and bungalows, and two full-service bars. Inside, Drai’s Nightclub is a 25,000 square-foot palatial, multi-level club with an expansive dance floor, massive LED lighting systems, and modern technology featuring more than 7,000 square feet of the most state-of-the-art high-definition LEDs in production, including a towering 80-sided LED disco ball—the only one of its kind. Drai’s Nightclub is home to Drai’s LIVE, an unprecedented concert series that provides fans with the opportunity to see full-length performances by top performers like Wiz Khalifa, Future and 2 Chainz in an up-close setting unlike anything else in the world. Drai’s is located at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Boulevard. More information, including reservations, tickets and hours, is available at their website. Follow Drai’s on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Our Friend Jean NFT Auction, was an exclusive event of art, music along with a live NFT auction experience. For the first time, an incredible selection of NFTs featuring rare and personal photos of Basquiat were available on the Triller marketplace, a trailblazing AI-powered global platform, with exclusive previews and purchase opportunities onsite. The Bishop Gallery chose the Triller NFT marketplace because the Triller platform has been specifically engineered to minimize the minting process’s computing costs and complexities to reduce the carbon footprint effects and provide accessibility for creators looking to monetize through NFT sales.
The photos of Basquiat being introduced to the blockchain, gave the world a chance to own a piece of the man that made the art movement of the early 80s New York City so electric. The blowout event featured performances from hip hop royalty.
Fat Joe first took the stage to perform and welcomed Stevenson A. Dunn, Jr. from The Bishop Gallery to introduce the first ever seen NFT drop, which included four rare photos of Basquiat. Next, Busta Rhymes came out to perform and lastly, French Montana performed a set while DJ D-Nice spun the entire night.
Next up after Art Basel, Triller x The Bishop Gallery in partnership with NYX Professional Makeup will present the “Our Friend, Jean-HBCU Tour,” and exhibition that will embark on a tour to eight HBCU (Historically Black Colleges/Universities) schools. The tour will kick off in early 2022 and land in eight cities, where Adler will appear to share the works from the Alexis Adler Archive, featuring works from Basquiat and potential art donations to the schools. Together, Triller, Bishop Gallery, and NYX Pm, have artistry for all that has been at the core, and strive to bring accessibility to the arts and self-expression to younger generations.
Featuring Performances from 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Kelly Rowland, Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, Nelly, Sean Paul, Flo Rida, TLC, T-Pain
Four-Day Experience from January 12-16, 2022, Featuring Musical Performances, Pool Parties, Yoga, Snorkeling, and Much More
Leading technology company Pollen Presents has announced their first fully owned production today. Going by the name Golden Sand, the immersive weekend of music, exploration, and relaxation will take place on the luxurious beaches of Riviera Maya on the east coast of Mexico from January 12-16, 2022 for one unforgettable weekend in the sun.
Golden Sand boasts a hip-hop / R&B lineup for the ages with legendary artists taking to the stage throughout four days and four nights of unbeatable performances, pool parties, events on the beach, jungle adventures, yoga, snorkeling, and more. This will all be set across luxury accommodations at the Barcelo Riviera Maya resort with premium food & beverages included in the experience. The unique experience will eschew crowds at large festivals for something far more intimate, perfect for those looking to enjoy their favorite music in an environment with comfort and space.
Golden Sand will be headlined by an array of hip-hop, rap, and R&B icons from various eras including New York hip-hop legend 50 Cent, the iconic group behind the hit songs “Waterfalls” and “Creep” TLC, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Nelly, Atlanta megastar and rapper Ludacris, prolific Jamaican dancehall artist Sean Paul, Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland, undeniable hitmaker and vocalist T-Pain, Brooklyn rapper and the original queen of hip-hop Lil’ Kim, Bronx hip-hop artist and music industry veteran Fat Joe, hit making maestro Flo Rida, an array of DJs and hosts to keep people moving throughout the experience, and more to be announced.
Beyond the music itself, attendees can also snorkel in the tropic shores of Riviera Maya, soak up the sun at the Barcelo’s eleven swimming pools, catch a wave on a FlowRider surf machine, eat their way through over a dozen restaurants across the resort, get a massage at a 10,000 square feet U-Spa Wellness and Fitness Center, pump some adrenaline through thrilling activities like ziplines, ATVs, and Go-Karts, play basketball or tennis at the Barcelo courts, or relax with meditation and dance classes in a one-of-a-kind destination setting.
Additional activities that can be booked directly through the resort include scuba diving classes, diving trips, jet ski excursions, deep-sea fishing, sunset boat parties, cenote excursions, day trips to Xcaret Park, hiking the ruins of Chichen Itza, and more. The area is also filled with delicious international cuisine, which includes Caribbean and teppanyaki grill, French bistros, buffets, traditional Mexican food, and much more.
Perched on the Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula, Riviera Maya is a place to be envied. Known for its abundance of all-inclusive resorts and endless palm tree lined beaches, epic nightlife, and delicious cuisine, it’s a short drive from Cancun International Airport and traveling distance to Tulum. Golden Sand will take place at the Barcelo Riviera Maya resort, spread across the Maya Riviera, Maya Beach, and Maya Caribe.
Golden Sand is Pollen’s first fully owned venture and a product of their ability to identify the wants and needs of their core demographic. Golden Sand will offer attendees an immersive, curated entertainment experience; allowing them to reconnect with their favorite artists in an unparalleled tropical location.
For more information about the event, including payment plans, package upgrades and FAQs, visit the official website to stay up-to-date with the latest in lineup, pricing, and event news.
Artist Lineup (A – Z) 50 Cent
Fat Joe
Flo Rida
Kelly Rowland
Lil’ Kim
Ludacris
Nelly
Sean Paul
TLC
T-Pain
About Pollen Pollen is a technology company building, curating, and delivering the best experiences for members all over the world. Members enjoy these experiences together with the people they love, creating stronger relationships and unforgettable memories. Members immerse themselves in multi-day itineraries that combine live entertainment, parties, and relaxation time in more than 50 popular destinations. Members can discover and book these experiences exclusively on pollen.co and the Pollen app. Pollen has already launched experiences with mega stars like J Balvin, Marshawn Lynch and Ozuna.
MAYOR DE BLASIO, L+M DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS & TYPE A PROJECTS BREAK GROUND AT BRONX POINT AND THE UNIVERSAL HIP HOP MUSEUM
Hip Hop legend Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Borough President Diaz, city agencies, and hip hop luminaries took part in a celebration of the $349 million South Bronx development along the Harlem River waterfront
BP Diaz delivered a $4.2 million grant to launch the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign
Mayor Bill de Blasio, Hip Hop legends Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, City Council Member Diana Ayala, numerous city agencies, and hip hop luminaries took part in the official groundbreaking event for the first phase of Bronx Point. The event took place on Thursday, May 20, at the future home of Bronx Point at 50 East 150th Street in The Bronx. We were on location to cover this monumental ceremony in the birthplace of hip hop, the Boogie Down Bronx, and are excited to see the project come to life.
The much-anticipated $349 million mixed-use project along the Harlem River waterfront in the South Bronx is being developed by L+M Development Partners and Type A Projects, who co-hosted the groundbreaking ceremony.
Bronx Point’s first phase will deliver 542 units of permanently affordable housing to the Lower Concourse neighborhood, along with approximately 2.8 acres of public open space. Additionally, the project will deliver an array of cultural and community-focused programming, including the permanent home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, an early childhood space run by BronxWorks, and outdoor science programming run by the Billion Oyster Project. S9 Architecture led the design of the 22-story project, and the open space was designed by Marvel Architects in collaboration with Abel Bainnson Butz. Phase one of Bronx Point is expected to be completed by late 2023.
The event also served as the official launch of the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future, and is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. At the groundbreaking, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. announced that he would contribute $4.2 million from his office’s capital budget to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign, which is one of the largest single funding allocations of the borough president’s tenure.
“New York City is building a recovery for all of us, and that starts with transformative projects like Bronx Point in the heart of the Bronx,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “From major investments in affordable housing to a permanent place to celebrate the music that has made the Bronx famous around the world, this project demonstrates what every real New Yorker already knows: there’s no stopping New York City.”
“Bronx Point is a complete reimagining of a dormant, underutilized piece of waterfront property that will create new affordable housing and long-anticipated amenities for the entire borough to enjoy, and I am proud to be a part of it,” said Ron Moelis, CEO and Co-Founder of L+M Development Partners. “The project will provide new open space with access to the Harlem River, a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and community programming with Bronxworks and the Billion Oyster Project. Bronx Point represents the best type of development a public-private partnership can offer our city, and I am thrilled that we have taken the first step towards enacting our vision for this project.”
“This groundbreaking at Bronx Point represents the culmination of deep partnerships and collaboration with the community, local elected officials, and city agencies,” said Ann Tirschwell, Partner at Type A Projects. “In particular, our work with the members and leadership of Community Board 4 has been uniquely formative. After more than two years of programming discussions, design charrettes, and planning sessions we have started construction on a new purpose-built open space for the residents of the South Bronx. With the delivery of this collaborative and award-winning design, we hope to provide more equitable access to the waterfront for all New Yorkers, regardless of zip code.”
“The groundbreaking for the first phase of Bronx Point is a tremendous step forward for our borough. Not only will this project create much-needed affordable housing units, but it will also activate underutilized space, open up more waterfront to public access, create new public spaces and retail amenities for community use. This development will combine two of my favorite things, history, and hip hop, bringing the Universal Hip Hop Museum to its rightful location in the birthplace of hip hop, The Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Hip hop was born in The Bronx, and the inclusion of the Universal Hip Hop Museum as a part of this project will help showcase our role in the creation of that worldwide cultural movement for generations to come. That is why I was proud to announce that I am providing $4.2 million in capital funds to help make this project a reality.”
“Yesterday’s Bronx Point groundbreaking ceremony marks a win for the diverse, growing community of the Bronx,” said New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie. “Upon its completion, Bronx Point will become a cultural hub, providing Bronxites with new affordable housing, wellness, and cultural activity opportunities that I know will enrich the lives of many. I am elated to be able to witness this amazing project and would like to thank L+M Development Partners, Type A Projects, BronxWorks, as well as all of the elected officials and community leaders that assisted in moving this project forward. Investments to neighborhoods in the Bronx are investments to the growth and future of our great city.”
“The Bronx is the birthplace of hip hop so it’s fitting that the borough will house a museum dedicated to this legendary music and movement,” said City Council Speaker Corey Johnson. “But Bronx Point will be so much more than a world-famous tourist destination, it will offer our city much-needed affordable housing as well as space for early childhood and science programming. The City Council proudly supports this project, which will add to the vibrancy of the Bronx while it is addressing long-standing housing needs.”
“Yesterday marked a major step towards advancing the administration’s key investments in the South Bronx,” said Rachel Loeb, President, and CEO of New York City Economic Development Corporation. “By bringing affordable housing, waterfront access, and a range of cultural facilities including the City’s first Hop Hop Museum, we are creating a more equitable New York. We are proud to break ground on the BronxPoint to bring these much-needed community benefits to the South Bronx.”
“Today we celebrate the start of a tremendous project that will change so many lives for the better. More than 500 households, including formerly homeless New Yorkers, will have safe, affordable homes to call their own, as well as access to amazing open space and high-quality cultural and educational programming,” said HPD Commissioner Louise Carroll. “Thanks to L+M, Type A, the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and all of our development partners for making this culturally significant development possible that will anchor the community for years to come.”
“I was delighted to participate in yesterday’s groundbreaking event for the first phase of the Bronx Point project. Bronx Point will bring much-needed affordable housing and community space to the South Bronx, including waterfront access for a community that has for too long been cut off from the Harlem River and a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum”, saidCouncil Member Diana Ayala. “I am thrilled to see this mixed-used permanently affordable housing project finally getting started and congratulate L+M Development Partners, Type A projects and their partners as well as the Universal Hip Hop Museum on this transformative South Bronx project along the Harlem River waterfront.”
“New York State is proud to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of the Hip Hop movement,” said ESD Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Eric Gertler. The museum’s modern, dynamic home will celebrate the artists and preserve the music that represented a new — and uniquely New York — sound that has become a cultural force across the globe and influenced generations of performers. Once completed, this new museum, reflecting the diversity of New York, will no doubt be a draw for residents and visitors to the Bronx and also serve as a hub for educational and local economic growth.”
“Hip Hop music and culture has been a source of inspiration and innovation since its outset,” said Brad Smith, President of Microsoft. “We’re incredibly excited for the museum’s groundbreaking and look forward to using Microsoft technology to help document, preserve, and tell the story of Hip Hop when the doors officially open.”
“The heartbeat of Hip Hop culture will live at Bronx Point, the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum,” said Rocky Bucano, Executive Director of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. “Documenting, preserving, and presenting the history of the culture for generations of Hip Hop lovers globally via exciting new tech innovations from Microsoft is thrilling. This partnership is truly a milestone for Hip Hop culture.”
“Bronx Point is a dynamic project that will serve its residents with permanently affordable housing, expansive cultural and community programming, and extensive outdoor green space,” said HDC President Eric Enderlin. “In addition to the 542 homes serving families across a wide range of incomes, including the formerly homeless, we also celebrate what will be the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. I would like to extend my congratulations to all our partners for their efforts, which will benefit the Lower Concourse neighborhood for years to come.”
“Hip hop has become a global art form, but it could have only started right here in the Bronx,” said NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Gonzalo Casals. “The diversity of New York City and the vitality of the communities of color in the South Bronx gave rise to Hip Hop, and made it into a powerful form of expression. It’s fitting that we honor that legacy here with the Universal Hip Hop Museum, which we’re proud to support as part of this major new development.”
“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of one of the most influential musical and cultural movements in the world,” said the NYC Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, Anne del Castillo. “The museum will serve as an important reminder of the artists, community, and creativity that define our city as the creative capital of the world.”
“BronxWorks is proud to be a partner in the Bronx Point development, which represents an innovative and thoughtful approach to affordable housing in a community that needs it,” said Eileen Torres, Executive Director, BronxWorks. “As we look to improve economic stability in the neighborhood, especially after the crises created by the pandemic, the Bronx Point development offers a path forward for families, who will be able to afford their rent and access support services and childcare on site.”
“We are excited that Bronx Point will provide the community with welcoming spaces for a variety of activities, while also creating a waterfront landscape that prioritizes ecology and learning,” said Yadiel Rivera-Diaz PLA, ASLA, Partner at Marvel. “We engaged with various members of the community on more than 20 occasions to learn and better understand the needs of residents and businesses; their valuable feedback informed our design, which includes spaces for learning, areas for exercising and activity, a picnic section, and an area for children to play and explore. As shaped by public input, Bronx Point creates a strong link between the community and waterfront.”
“S9 Architecture tapped into the rhythm and movement of the site and the street to make the Bronx Point project both an anchor and a gateway to the neighborhood,” said John Clifford, founding Principal, S9 Architecture. “Our design not only reflects the dynamic energy of the neighborhood and urban context, but it also provides vital housing, cultural, public waterfront park and commercial assets to the community.”
“As part of the Bronx Point project, brand new green space will be added for the enjoyment of the entire community, further complementing Mill Pond Park,” said NYC Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa. “I would like to thank all of our partners for this wonderful park expansion which will be a hub of rest, relaxation, and recreation for decades to come!”
“Wells Fargo is pleased to be part of this historic project which will revitalize the South Bronx neighborhood and address the affordable housing needs of its residents,” said Page W. Travelstead, Managing Director of Community Lending & Investment at Wells Fargo. “We are proud to work closely with L&M Development Partners and Type A Projects on financing Bronx Point and are excited to see how the new housing units, retail space, and Universal Hip Hop Museum will spark economic development in the Bronx Waterfront area.”
“Yesterday we broke ground on a project that has the potential to transform the gateway to the South Bronx,” said Paul A. Philps, District Manager of Bronx Community Board #4. Bronx Point not only includes the activation of our waterfront with new affordable housing, expanded open space at Mill Pond Park, and the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, but it represents hope and a bright future for area residents. We are excited to see this critical project move into the first phase of development.
Bronx Point is located on City-owned land and is being financed through a combination of public and private capital, including financing from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), Empire State Development, Wells Fargo, and additional private funding. The overall funding includes $323.5 million for the building, along with $27 million for the waterfront esplanade’s construction from the NYCEDC.
In Phase One, Bronx Point’s apartments will be available for families earning between 30 percent to 120 percent of Area Median Income, along with apartments for the formerly homeless. Apartments will include 135 studios, 192 one-bedrooms, 122 two-bedrooms, and 93 three-bedrooms. Tenant amenities will feature an outdoor terrace for residents, on-site laundry, a children’s room, community lounge, bike storage room, on-site fitness center, and around-the-clock front desk security. The project’s second phase is anticipated to include additional housing units along with additional retail and community space. When complete, Bronx Point will include up to 1,045 apartment units.
Public space is also a central feature of Bronx Point. A grand staircase, designed to be a civic gathering space for the borough, will lead from the building itself down to the waterfront. The open space, across from Bronx Terminal Market, will feature a playground and landscaped area adjacent to the existing Mill Pond Park and the Bronx Children’s Museum to the north. An esplanade along the Harlem River shoreline will include a landscaped public walkway and seating areas. The space will also feature lawns, waterfront lookouts, an extended BBQ area, fitness zones for adults, and publicly accessible bathrooms. Collectively, these open space improvements will advance the City and community’s long-standing goal of providing access to the Harlem River waterfront and increasing public open space in the South Bronx.
Bronx Point will also include several spaces for youth and community programming and education. Development partner BronxWorks, a venerable Bronx social service provider, will provide supportive services for tenants on the site and operate an early childhood center. At the same time, the Billion Oyster Project will run an outdoor education program that utilizes the Harlem River. In all, the 530,000 square foot-Bronx Point will include more than 56,000 square feet of educational and community space, along with more than 12,000 square feet of retail space. The Prusik Group, L+M’s partner on Essex Crossing on the Lower East Side and the new National Urban League Headquarters in Harlem, will serve as the project’s Retail Development Advisor.
Along with the Bronx Children’s Museum, Hostos Community College, and Bronx Terminal Market, Bronx Point is within walking distance of borough institutions like the Bronx Civic Center district and Yankee Stadium, along with subway stations for the 2, 4, 5, B, and D lines.
Bronx Point is a key component of a $194 million capital investment strategy for the Lower Concourse neighborhood, announced by the de Blasio Administration in 2015 and led by NYCEDC. For more than two years, the development team and NYCEDC engaged extensively with the local community, including hosting open space design workshops and additional working group sessions with an array of local stakeholders. In the end, community members were able to directly influence the design and programming of the project’s open space and provide a range of ongoing feedback as the project progressed.
About L+M Development Partners
Since its inception in 1984, L+M Development Partners Inc. has been an innovator in developing quality affordable, mixed-income, and market-rate housing, while improving the neighborhoods in which it works. A full-service firm, L+M works from conception to completion, handling development, investment, construction, and management with creativity that leads the industry. L+M is responsible for approximately $10 billion in development and investment and has acquired, built, or preserved nearly 35,000 high-quality residential units in New York’s tri-state area, Washington, D.C., the West Coast, and Gulf Coast regions. Community leaders, government officials, and institutional investors turn to L+M because of its consistent track record of excellence.
L+M is a double bottom line company, where its success is measured not only in financial returns but also by positive impacts. L+M takes pride in its long-standing partnership with the communities it serves, demonstrated through an annual scholarship fund, workforce development programs, after-school programs, and substantial support for local nonprofits. L+M brings a superior level of commitment to its investments in developments, and equally important, to its investment in people. For more information, please visit this website.
About Type-A Projects Type A Projects is a certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise dedicated to building affordable and inspiring places to live, work, learn and play. Type A was formed in 2013 to capitalize on the decades of nonprofit, commercial, institutional, and mixed-use development experience of two women individually and collectively focused on creating vibrant and affordable communities that underpin the diverse fabric of NYC.
Building on past experience managing the development of over 1,000,000 square feet of public schools and community facilities, Type A remains committed to impactful, civic-based projects that support NYC’s neighborhoods and communities. In 2016, Type A expanded its focus to include mixed-use and mixed-income affordable, senior and supportive housing. Type A has recently completed its first multi-family project as lead developer with their 115-unit senior affordable project at 1490 Southern in the Bronx. Within Type A’s portfolio are three joint venture developments including Bronx Point with its 542 units of affordable housing, 50-units of supportive housing for young adults aging out of foster care in Harlem with services provided by Homeward NYC, and an L+M/M-Squared project featuring 78 affordable rental apartments for low- and moderate-income households in Newark that will include a ground-floor clinic and hospital office space operated in partnership with University Hospital.
About the Universal Hip Hop Museum
Anchored in the birthplace of Hip Hop culture, the Universal Hip Hop Museum will break ground in the Bronx in 2021. Built as a space for audiences, artists, and technology to converge and create unparalleled educational and entertainment experiences, the museum is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future.
About BronxWorks
With over 40 locations throughout the borough, BronxWorks has worked from the ground up in Bronx communities for over 48 years to help residents build healthy, stable futures for themselves and their neighborhoods. BronxWorks helps individuals and families improve their economic and social well-being. From toddlers to seniors, we feed, shelter, teach and support our neighbors to build a stronger community. For more information about BronxWorks, contact Gianna Dell’Olio, Director of Advancement and Communications at gdellolio@bronxworks.org, or visit this website.
Vevo’s Ctrl series highlights the work of hard-hitting, cutting-edge musicians making an impact in today’s music scene – both emerging and established. These artists demand attention, and Vevo’s Ctrl shines a deserving spotlight. Shot in Vevo’s Brooklyn studio, Freddie Gibbs’ performance follow sessions from Rick Ross, Common, Rapsody, Fat Joe, Jeezy, Jadakiss, Fabolous, A$AP Ferg and more.
Rapper Royce da 5’9″ became known outside his native Detroit first for his work with Eminem and Dr. Dre, then through unexpected pop success, prolific solo output, and his roles in the group’s Slaughterhouse and PRhyme. His raw persona and talent for intricate lyrical design were on display in nonstop output that included frequent mixtapes, collaborations, and solo albums like his 2002 debut, Rock City.
His first major recorded appearance was on “Bad Meets Evil,” a track off The Slim Shady LP, Eminem’s multi-platinum commercial breakthrough released in 1999. Later in the year, Royce and Eminem released “Nuttin’ to Do” as Bad Meets Evil, and Royce debuted as a solo artist with the Alchemist-produced “I’m the King.” Additionally, Royce co-wrote “The Message,” the closing track of Dr. Dre’s 2001. Dre had previously offered an Aftermath label deal to Royce, who briefly went with Tommy Boy prior to landing with Game Recordings.
Early the next decade, Royce scored the first in a string of charting solo singles with “Boom,” a collaboration with DJ Premier that began a long-term affiliation. Rock City, his full-length debut, was released in 2002, but bootlegging of its contents prompted the rapper to decamp to Koch, where he issued Rock City (Version 2.0) and followed up in 2004 with Death Is Certain. Among the tracks on which he appeared during the next couple years was on Joe Budden’s “Slaughterhouse,” which led to group recordings of the same name. Royce, Budden, Joell Ortiz, and Crooked I released a self-titled album that debuted at number 25 on the Billboard 200. Within a matter of weeks, through another independent label deal, Royce’s fourth solo album, Street Hop, was on shelves.
Royce enjoyed even greater commercial success during the 2010s, a period during which his high critical stature as a sharp lyricist likewise escalated. In 2011, he and Eminem reconvened for Hell: The Sequel. The EP topped the Billboard 200 and was trailed shortly thereafter by the release of solo album five, Success Is Certain, a Top 30 hit itself. The year 2012 was especially significant for Royce, not only for the warm reception to Slaughterhouse’s Welcome To: Our House, but also for his sobriety date that September. Alcoholism had plagued his life for several years, notably related on “Shake This,” and had led to a handful of drunken driving offenses, a prison sentence, and the deterioration of his family life.
Royce went through a protracted period of writer’s block, but his career resumed in full force in 2014, when he appeared on benefactor Eminem’s posse cut “Detroit vs. Everybody” and released his first album with DJ Premier as PRhyme. Another solo album, Layers, was out by the end of 2016. PRhyme 2, along with seventh solo full-length Book of Ryan, materialized in 2018. He continued his long history of Eminem collaborations with both the song “Caterpillar” on Book of Ryan and a spot on Eminem’s 2018 surprise-released Kamikaze album. Royce’s eighth 22-track album, The Allegory, includes cameos from Westside Gunn, YBN Cordae, Benny the Butcher, and many others.
“Thou Shall” and “Overcomer” are now streaming on all platforms. Keep up with exclusive content from artists all over the world on YouTube.com/Vevo.
ABOUT VEVO: Vevo is the world’s largest all-premium music video provider, offering artists a global platform with enormous scale through its distribution partners. Vevo connects artists with their audience globally via music videos and original content, working directly with them to find unique ways to bring their music to life visually. Vevo also works with emerging artists, providing them with a platform of global scale and reach, to find and grow their audience. Reaching 26 billion monthly views globally, Vevo has over 450,000 music videos in its catalog.
As of late, 360 MAGAZINE had an opportunity to glide through the five Burroughs of NYC in an all-terrain super-luxury SUV during the Holiday Season.
Unassuming and illustrious are the best words to describe the 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV. Worth its weight in gold! Approximately priced around $394,275, it’s the most expensive off-roader in it’s class and by far the most luxurious in the world.
Design
Handcrafted from the soil up, every nook and cranny has the Rolls-Royce stamp of approval. The overall shell of the vehicle is sleek and seamless. Every pillar and appointment makes perfect sense. Outside, the frontfasia is bodacious with integrated laser headlights and a pronounced grill. The Spirit of Ecstasy (SoE) sits on the hood and is retracts at a moment’s notice. 22″ inch part polished wheels and tires have a weighted emblem in the middle so as the car rolls (no wordplay intended) it stays center so there’s no mistaking who fabricated this monster. Swooping lines lead towards the back wisease. At first glance, it’s profile is somewhat reminiscent of an Range Rover Autobiography. On the sides, are LED parking lights. Boxy, beautiful yet masculine. At the rear, are gem-like light fixtures with turning signals. The boot has a clamshell tailgate which opens up and out with dual doors.
Push the button on the door knob to enter. Right before you enter the cabin, you are greeted by illunlminated ‘Cullinan’ treadplates alongside of lambswool floor mats. Even if the interior lights aren’t on, the Charles Blue interior leather seats are just as magnetic as Angelina Jolie’s electric eyes. One will feel like they’re swimming in Bali at Geger Beach wrapped by a navy blue beach towel in leather. Equally drowned by a sea of blue, the moonroof unveils the sky like a drophead, making the cabin feel more open and airy. Literally two to three people can promote their entire bodies out of the dual panel sunroof. It’s definitely one of the largest in its segment hands-down. Per usual, all of the appointments are wrapped in leather and stainless steel as easily as every headrest is embossed by SoE. Classic dials throughout and an analog clock sits on the dashboard with the same kind of realness as Big Ben in London.
Continue along to the back seats, the same luxurious integrity is apparent with large screens with trays which go flush. Instead of a back panel window in the trunk space, it’s laid right on side of back passengers. All of the rear windows possess dark tempered glass fit for the likes of the Queen herself, Beyoncé. As we dropped a passenger off at the Hard Rock Hotel in Time Square, tons of bystanders huddled around to take pictures.
Technology
Once again, the BMW’s iDrive system is dominant in the infotainment unit. The knob toggles through various screens, but this season they have a concierge which makes it a tad easier to locate and designate a destination – similar in type to Lexus Enform. Eight different settings for driver/passenger massages – excellent way for a driver to refresh during a long road trip.
During these colder months, the steering, arm rests and seats are heated. And, if you haven’t received a formal crash course on your Cullinan, you can refer to the animated digital owner’s manual which can easily search many of its amenities. The custom Rolls-Royce signature audio system has tweeters, floor subwoofers and enough watts to make you thump like you’re at a rock concert.
Safety
With more bells than whistles, you won’t leave a lane or come close to a dinging anything on this vehicle. The over the head 360 panoramic backup cam gives you a spaceage Jetson POV of what’s around the vehicle at all times. Night vision with heat detectors can help you navigate through woodsy areas without hitting a deer. In the urban center, we were alerted while behind a school bus – cameras came about when pedestrians accosted the vehicle’s walk around radius. Moreover, with a reinforced steel skeleton and airbags virtually for every piece of your body, you’re pretty safe in this vehicle.
Performance
Weighing in at around 5,863 lbs, this V12 turbo is more than powerful. With 570 HP and 627 pound-ft of torque, this SUV plows. Of course, the AWD allows you to claw corners and steering provides you with turning capabilities as if you’re in a sportscar. We pounded the asphalt and it felt like we could conquer 0-60 mph in less than 4.9 minutes while we entered the Garden State Parkway. There’s a reason why RR makes airplane engines because we felt like we were flying! Mentioning mpg makes no sense if you’re purchasing an automotive beast like this one – but here you go – 12 city / 20 highway.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market to floss and experience what many will never – this car should make it onto your bucket list. Out of all the Rolls-Royce tribe, this is the most practical as you can apply it for everyday use as well as a red carpet experience.
