Kadeem went on to play Zendaya’s father in Disney Channel’s K.C. Undercover, and to recur in Showtime’s Black Monday. Hardison will now star in the upcoming AMC television series, Moonhaven, which takes place 100 years in the future in a utopian society set on a 500 square mile Garden of Eden built on the Moon.
The following are excerpts from the latest episode of the Allison Interviews podcast with host and entertainment journalist, Allison Kugel, interviewing Kadeem Hardison. Hardison talks about his relationships with Lisa Bonet, Marisa Tomei and Jasmine Guy, directing Tupac Shakur and Jada Pinkett Smith together, his friendship with Zendaya, and wishing Malcolm X were alive while he was growing up. The full podcast episode is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and the video episode of the podcast is available on YouTube.
On Lisa Bonet confiding in him about how early fame affected her
“I had worked with Lisa [Bonet] the year before A Different World. I did a guest spot on The Cosby Show and I was just really interested to know how she dealt with the fame thing. She was probably the most famous person I had ever met at that point. So, our conversations were me asking her, ‘So what’s it like with that big spotlight on you everywhere you go.’ She said, ‘Well, you know, I used to love to go to malls and I don’t go to malls anymore. I used to love to go out to the movies and I can’t do that anymore.’ It was all about these things that were kind of restricted, or she restricted herself from, because it brought so much attention. She was someone I was gaining knowledge from. Then on A Different World, I got to pretend to have a crush on Lisa, which was the easiest job in America.”
On having a crush on Jasmine Guy as soon as they met
“I met Jasmine the year before [A Different World]. We did a film together. Our characters didn’t speak, but in the down time we kind of got to hang out a little bit and be at parties and stuff like that. Oh boy, I had a crush on Jasmine the minute I saw her. When I met Jasmine [Guy] it was an instant skipped heartbeat. Once Lisa was gone, I got to pretend to fall in love with Jasmine (on A Different World).”
On Marisa Tomei’s character being the only white character on A Different World
“[Marisa] was cast before I got there. Usually when you make a show, you better have some white characters in it (laugh), or someone is going to raise hell. Someone is going to say, ‘Why are there no white folks on it?’ It’s a historically Black university. Blackbeing the operative word. But I loved her character. I was sad when she was gone in the second season.”
On Marisa Tomei and Kadeem wanting their A Different World characters to get together
“During the first season she and I both lobbied to the writers to put us together. Let us have more scenes together. Let something develop between us. Like why doesn’t she see him? Why doesn’t he see her? It just seemed so obvious that the two weirdest outcasts would kind of find each other. I thought our characters were kind of made for each other, because she was kind of off, and I was definitely off. I thought, ‘Nobody sees him out of the group.’ Like the girls that I’m chasing all the time; nobody sees him. Why doesn’t she see him and why doesn’t he see her? They seemed like they could bond off of their uniqueness, or the fact that they are both a little bit off. But at the time it was ‘let’s keep the blacks with the black, and the whites with the whites.’ It’s crazy.”
On directing Jada Pinkett Smith and Tupac Shakur together on A Different World
“It was fantastic. They had a seamless chemistry. How do you direct De Niro and Pacino? You just kind of stand back and let them go. You hope that the cameras are in focus. I didn’t really have to tell him much. I didn’t have to tell her hardly anything. It was a joy to watch. It was probably the easiest directing job. The fight scene we had to tweak a little bit. We had to work on it, because it was a fight between Jada’s character’s current boyfriend and Pac’s character. So, we had to spend some time working that out, but once I said ‘Action,’ it took on a life of its own. It felt like a real fight. It felt like a real brawl, and that was Pac. That was him going in, like, ‘I’m going to whoop this sucker.’ It was awesome to direct the two of them. They were good buds and I kept asking her, ‘Is he going to show up? Because I have lots of rapper friends and I knew that [being on] time is not their friend? She said, ‘Yes, he’s coming. He’s on his way.’
“I always felt like I loved Tupac as a rapper, but I was jealous of him as an actor, because I just thought he had such range. He could touch places that I didn’t know if I could go. I just wanted to watch. But it wasn’t Macbeth, you know what I mean? He’s playing the neighborhood cat that comes in full of bravado to claim the girl he thinks is his. He was like, ‘Yeah, I can do that.’ (laugh). [Jada] was playing the girl who was trying to get away from that life. There were no real notes for them. There was no reason to say, ‘Hey try it like this.’ Everything they did was magic.”
On almost turning down playing Zendaya’s dad in Disney Channel’s K.C. Undercover
“When K.C. Undercover came along, I didn’t really know who Zendaya was and I was a little skeptical about [the] Disney Channel. I wanted to curse, bleed, and do all kinds of adult stuff, and that’s not going to happen with the Disney Channel. When I got word of the audition I was in New York and my nieces and my sisters were asking me, ‘What are you doing next?’ I said, ‘Well, there’s this show with this girl named Zendaya or something like that, and they want me to be her daddy.’ Everyone from my six-year-old niece to my 30-year-old sister all flipped out and said, ‘You have to take that. That girl is going to be something!’”
On celebrating with Zendaya when she landed her role in Spider-Man
“She’s my ace, and all of these moves she’s made have been really well thought out. I was there when she booked Spider-Man and we jumped around the room like, ‘Holy sh*t, you’re going to be in Spider-Man? What?!’ And I was there when she got the musical with Hugh Jackman, The Greatest Showman. I knew that once we get out of Disney world, we just want to get a chance to get our hands on some meat, to see if we can really act, because we’ve been doing nice, easy cotton candy for so long. I have to see if I can really throw down still. Her show, Euphoria was it, and I’m loving it!”
On why he wishes Malcolm X was alive while he was growing up
“Once you die, you become a god, but I think if he was still around, the teaching would have reached more. He would have had to grow, change, and adapt. All of that would have made him better, and us better, for having him. He would have been able to import that into us. It’s hard to say, because now he is It. He’s the one you look to and say, ‘This is what this guy said,’ or ‘This is what he was saying,’ but you never get to hear what he would have said had he lived another 10, 20, or 30 years. That’s where it would have gotten groovy, because I think he was gone before I was born. It would have been nice to see him as a real person instead of this god that you have to read about in books, or look at on old tapes from the time that he was living, and not the times we’re living in. In my 20s, I would have liked to know what he thought about the world we were living in. In my 40s, I would have liked to know what he thought about the world we are in. That’s the version of things I would want.”
“Jaguar Century: 100 Years of Automotive Excellence” by Giles Chapman
“Jaguar Century” is a lavishly illustrated large-format retrospective examining 100 years of Jaguar, one of the most acclaimed marques in automotive history. Established in 1922 by William Lyons and William Walmsley, the Swallow Sidecar Company transformed into one of the auto industry’s most revered car brands, synonymous with performance and luxury. “Jaguar Century” chronicles this company and its remarkable vehicles, from the 1935 Jaguar SS sporting saloon to today’s F-Type sports cars, F-PACE SUV, and X-Type sedans—filled with images, history, and in-depth analyses of the incredible cars Jaguar has created year after year.
Automotive historian Giles Chapman showcases how company visionaries developed the brand in the trying economic times leading up to World War II before resetting Jaguar during England’s bleak postwar years. “Jaguar Century” will make a great addition to any holiday gift list, just in time for the marque’s 100 anniversary next year.
Publishing September 28, 2021 by Motorbooks ∙ Hardcover, 224 pages ∙ $75.00 US, $99.00 CAN ISBN: 9780760368664
“DAMANHUR Social Alchemy, Magical Temples and the Superindividual” by Jeff Merrifield
What is Damanhur? It is an alternative way of life. A societal model for the betterment of humanity, an experiment in human consciousness. A collective of people devoted to the sustainability of communal living; an ecovillage and spiritual community based in Northern Italy. Founded by Falco Tarassaco in the mid-70s, Damanhur has grown from humble beginnings to become a prime mover in spiritual-artistic standing and research and the ecological protection of the planet.
In Jeff Merrifield’s book, he writes with reverence about this community that has fascinated him for over two decades. His book is an introduction to the intricacies, philosophies and structures of the seemingly closed-off Damanhur, the guide to the lessons of this community.
DAMANHUR Social Alchemy, Magical Temples and the Superindividual by JEFF MERRIFIELD (10th August; Watkins/Penguin Random House; £18.99/$29.95; 9781786783707
“Move Like Water × Be Fluid” is a stunning memoir documenting the author’s journey from a childhood in the Detroit’s subsidized, section 8 housing to a successful career in fashion and media. The arc of this remarkable passage twists and turns in surprising ways, ensuring readers will believe in the concept that this life truly is what you make it. The text will debut as an exclusive multi-volume installation within 360 MAGAZINE and marks the inception of the brand’s foray into publishing.
This provocative coming-of-age story explores the power of branding strategy, a technique the writer developed at an early age and carried with him throughout his lifetime. Lowery, from the time he was a young child, is able to comprehend that one’s innate, individual self is their greatest commodity in life. Through the highs and lows that inform his experience, he stays true to that ideal. Lowery puts forward a raw and compelling narrative of a child, and later a man, who repeatedly picks himself up, reimagines his life, and finds innovative ways to move forward.
Move Like Water x Be Fluid is available in PDF format on Blurb.
Signed copies of Vaughn’s memoir, Move Like Water × Be Fluid, are available in ourshop.
“Bodega Cat” by Louie Chin
Already a recipient of starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, Louie Chin’s “Bodega Cat” has been selected by the Junior Library Guild as a Spring 2020 Gold Standard in the City Elementary category. Referred to as “the subscription box for the modern librarian,” the Junior Library Guild plays a pivotal role in stocking library inventories nationwide with the highest caliber of books for children. Of the thousands of applicants, only 3% receive this annual distinction and over 95% of JLG Gold Standard books go on to win other book awards. Congratulations to Louie Chin, and to editor Jordan Nielsen!
Born and raised in New York, Louie Chin is an illustrator who creates commercial and editorial content. He has always been an animal-lover, and there is one family pet in particular from which he drew inspiration for “Bodega Cat”: a spirited and feisty orange tabby cat named Simba. His favorite bodega order is coffee and an egg and sausage sandwich on a toasted roll. “Bodega Cat” is the first book that he both wrote and illustrated. He currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.
Animals & Cats / City & Town Life / People & Places, Hispanic & Latino Hardcover, 10.5 x 10.5 Inches, 32 Pages ISBN: 978-1-57687-932-0, $17.99 US/$23.99 CAN
“The Fragile Skin of the World” by Jean-Luc Nancy
The world is everything that passes between us – ourselves and everything that happens to us, everything that becomes of our contacts, our gazes, our movements; and through referrals from skin to skin, from the fleeting to the immemorial, you reach without even knowing it the entire actuality of the world: the act of its existence. This act is made up of works and disasters, splendors, horrors, and catastrophes. As long as it is ours, it is the act of an infinite emergence that is all the sense there is: a sense that incessantly goes from skin to skin and is itself never enveloped by anything.
The texts in this volume are all oriented by the concern for what is currently happening to us – we, late humanoids – when we arrive at an extremity of our history, whether this extremity should turn out to be a stage, a rupture, or quite simply a last breath.
Jean-Luc Nancy is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Université Marc Bloch in Strasbourg and teaches Political Philosophy and Media Aesthetics at the European Graduate School in Saas-Fee.“The Fragile Skin of the World” will be published in November 2021.
“Passion for Practice with Musings From Music Masters” by Becky Chaffee
Becky’s new book for anyone playing an instrument, Passion For Practice With Musings From Music Masters, is an imaginative visual presentation expressing music practice concepts. Whether you take private lessons or you learned an instrument in grade school and need to take some lessons to get started again, this book will encourage you. The better you are, the more fun you’ll have. Regular practicing can be rough, but Ms. Chaffee’s book helps you to practice smarter, making it more of a fun challenge than rote practice.
Both an art book and a practice reference book, Passion For Practice With Musings From Music Masters contains personal practicing stories and suggestions from musicians around the world, including famous musicians, Grammy award-winning musicians, and principals of sections in major orchestras on all instruments. You might also enjoy her first book, Have Fun With Your Music to inspire young musicians to make practicing their own. Buy this book to inspire music practice or as a gift for a music teacher’s studio.
Becky Chaffee grew up in a musical household and raised two musical children. She has degrees in civil engineering from UC Berkeley and Cornell University. She enjoys playing flute for her music club. Through her music gifts company, Becky raises funds for music education and has distributed $1,000s to youth. Much of the artwork in her books is presented on note cards, prints and Tee shirts that sell in music stores and symphony gift shops such as the Brevard Music Center, Nashville and San Francisco Symphony Gift Shops, SW Strings, and so on.
TheFair Trade Handbook, Edited by Gavin Fridell, Zack Gross and Sean McHugh
Framed within the common goal of advancing trade justice and South-North solidarity, The Fair Trade Handbook presents a broad interpretation of fair trade and a wide-ranging dialogue between different viewpoints. Canadian researchers in particular have advanced a transformative vision of fair trade, rooted in the cooperative movement and arguing for a more central role for Southern farmers and workers. Contributors to this book look at the issues within global trade, and assess fair trade and how to make it more effective against the broader structures of the capitalist, colonialist, racist and patriarchal global economy. The debates and discussions are set within a critical development studies and critical political economy framework. However, this book will appeal to a wide range of readers, as it translates the key issues for a popular audience.
Dodge Viper by David Zatz
The story of Chrysler Corporation’s 1990s image-building V10-engined sportscar – now in eBook format! The Viper stunned Americans by showing that Dodge, known for tame cars and minivans, could make a brutal monster of a sports car. At Le Mans, Team Viper showed they could handle turns, too, winning its class at a fraction of the usual cost. This book covers the Viper from concept to rough rocket to world-class supercar.
This is not just a gushing tribute to the Dodge Viper, the author provides an objective view of the full story, using business, historical, and enthusiast perspectives. The book looks at the business case for each generation, the development stories and their outcomes, and describes some of the issues owners may have to watch out for, particularly in the early models.
True Teryn: The Last Lumenian Book 2 by S.G. Blaise
Princess Lilla finds herself tasked with recruiting the biggest and most dangerous army in the Seven Galaxies. However, the Teryn Emperor will not cooperate unless Lilla earns the blessing of the Guardian Goddess Laoise – no simple task! Is she willing to pay the price to bring her people a second chance at a new beginning?
Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Emily Skrutskie, this compelling and adventurous tale is set in a rich sci-fi fantasy world. The True Teryn is a captivating coming-of-age story with a diverse cast of characters, a powerful female lead, and a beautiful overarching message: you don’t have to be perfect to be a hero.
“At the heart of The Last Lumenian series, is the story of how young women struggle with today’s critical challenges, including: mental health, personal freedom, self-esteem and managing relationships amidst overwhelming expectations,” says Blaise. “I love hearing from my readers, how inspired they are by Princess Lilla, taking brave action in their own lives.”
True Teryn, (The Last Lumenian, #2) will be available on Amazon and at other booksellers on Dec. 7, 2021.
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones
The 1619 Project comprises 18 essays, and 36 poems and works of fiction, all revolving around slavery in America, and how it continues to play a role in our society. By exploring America’s long past with slavery, the root of modern racism can be revealed. It’s both a deeply provocative and highly upsetting work. It doesn’t work to display a bright future for America, but instead provides a revealing, if depressing, narrative on the American experience.
This work acts as an expansion of the highly praised New York Times Magazine project, which was highly controversial at the time due to its conceit: that America wasn’t founded in 1776 with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but in 1619 when the first African slaves were brought to the US and exploited.
A children’s book, presenting aspects of the novel’s contents in a way accessible for children, was also released. Titled, 1619 Project: Born on the Water, the book was written with help from Peabody award-winning author Renee Watson.
Author Nikole Hannah-Jones is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter, who’s won a Peabody Award, two George Polk Awards, three National Magazine Awards, and the 2018 John Chancellor distinguished journalism award from Columbia University.
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones is available via Amazon.
“Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Sewing Clothes” by Joi Mahon
Joi Mahon, esteemed designer and fashion entrepreneur, teaches readers about necessary sewing skills in his new book, Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Sewing Clothes.
Joi simplifies and explains techniques used in sewing such as stich types, fabric qualities and just how to obtain perfect fit of a garment. He speaks on the book, stating, “I created the book to be a complete reference guide and it includes all my tips from over twenty-five years of professional sewing. I believe it will make an excellent addition to any sewer’s library with it’s modern and up to date illustrations and photography that is visually appealing.”
YONDER by Jabari Asim
YONDER is a new novel by Jabari Asim, one of the best writers we out there. And according to Evangeline Lawson’s brilliantly written review in The Washington Post, it is a must-read book for Black History Month, for Americans of all backgrounds, a necessary and different kind of addition to literature.
SENTIENT: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Humans Senses
In SENTIENT: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses (Atria Books; Hardcover; On Sale: February 22, 2022; $28.00; ISBN 9781982156558), Jackie Higgins explores the breadth of our capabilities as sentient beings through the lens of the animal kingdom. This book looks to animals to better understand the ways we sense and make sense of the world. Scientific research shows that there is more to unite, than divide us and that all creatures are built on the same foundations—a message of particular importance right now. Through their eyes, ears, skin, tongues, noses and more, we can uncover what it means to be human and rediscover the extraordinary in the ordinary waking moment.
UNSTOPPABLE: How I Found My Strength Through Love and Loss
Chiquis Rivera’s new memoir UNSTOPPABLE: How I Found My Strength Through Love and Loss (Atria Books; Hardcover; On Sale: February 8, 2022; $27.00; ISBN: 9781982180683) is an exploration of her recent triumphs and challenges. Rivera reveals the personal journey she went through after her mother passed, and how she was able to still follow her dreams and become a renowned singer and entrepreneur. Throughout UNSTOPPABLE, Rivera opens up to her audience revealing her life experiences that helped her obtain the strength she has today.
Word Up: The Life of Amanda Gorman
This biography captures the life of National Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. This is an inspirational read that showcases her journey from her beginnings growing up with a speech impediment and a single mother. Ultimately, she thrived and eventually, at the age of 23, spoke at the inauguration of President Joe Biden.
“It’s a story with a happy ending,” says author Marc Shapiro. “Hollywood couldn’t have scripted it any better. This is real life and an object lesson to all the young women out there who are looking for a role model to inspire them to their full potential. Amanda Gorman is that role model.”
Author Marc Shapiro also wrote New York Times bestseller J.K. Rowling: The Wizard Behind Harry Potter and Justin Bieber: TheFever.
Enamel the Camel
Enamel wishes he were like all the other camels who live in Camel-lot, but his front teeth are bigger than anyone else’s. Enamel has an overbite, which he brushes to a bright, glowing shine. This makes Enamel different from his fellow camels and he’s the only camel who brushes his teeth. Because his teeth are so prominent, he gets teased at school. Despite kind words from Enamel’s friends, the bullying gets him down. After being teased one time too many during a student outing at the Big Palm Oasis, Enamel decides he’d rather be alone. But when an epic sandstorm blows in, Enamel saves the day. Using his teeth in a very “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” fashion, Enamel leads his scared classmates home to their worried parents. The town thanks him with an award for heroism, and everyone starts brushing their teeth and smiling.
Enamel the Camel is an upbeat humorous story for children about sticking out, stepping up, and the importance of good dental care written by Dr. Mike King, a pediatric dentist in New York City since 1986.
In his dental practice, Dr. Mike as he is called, uses jokes, magic tricks, and a calming nature to treat his young patients. Enamel the Camel is his latest book to help children understand and appreciate their teeth. He has pioneered the philosophy or “flossophy” as he likes to call it, that smiling and laughing should be part of a child’s dental experience.
Fierce Love by Susan Scott
Diving deep into the problems that often are imposed within relationships, Susan Scott investigates why relationships in the modern day and age have often been unsatisfactory. Reviewing the leading problems that typically affect the success of a romantic relationship, this book analyzes common mishaps and miscommunications that typically occur between partners. “Fierce Love” offers insight on communication tactics that are critical to a surviving, healthy relationship.
Scott refers to the current situation of relationships in America as a “communication crisis.” She continues by stating, “What gets talked about in a relationship, and how it gets talked about, determines whether a relationship will thrive, flat-line or fail. We often long for deep connection in our relationships, but we don’t know how to communicate well and sometimes withhold what we’re really thinking and feeling. This can lead to fighting, resentment or, worse, complacency where you are just going through the motions … more like roommates than two people in love. Enduring love happens one conversation at a time. Unfortunately, far too many are not innately equipped with the intuition, knowledge and skills to adeptly steer dialogues that way … and modern society reflects those shortcomings.”
The Other Side of Yet
Michelle Hord was no stranger to tragedy, having started her professional career as a producer on America’s Most Wanted, where she came face to face with the unthinkable on a daily basis. But when it happened in her own family, Michelle’s entire life crashed down around her.
One moment, Michelle had a husband, a career that was taking off, and a beautiful baby girl. When her marriage started to deteriorate and she had to fight for a divorce, she found strength in her seven-year-old daughter, Gabrielle. Just as the divorce was nearly finalized, the most important thing in her life was taken away. Her soon to be ex-husband, the man she once loved, murdered their daughter.
InThe Other Side of Yet: Finding Light in the Midst of Darkness (Atria Books; On sale March 15, 2022; $28.00 Hardcover; ISBN: 9781982173524), Michelle Hord expresses how she survived a mother’s worst nightmare, a devastating loss that most cannot even imagine. In her darkest hours, she turned to the bible, with a particular verse she kept coming back to: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him”(Job 13:15). In the space between before and after, between ruin and recovery, there is “yet.” Michelle found strength in her yet—it meant that there would be an after, that there was more to come.
Cocktail Chemistry
Cocktail Chemistry is a distillation of Nick Fisher’s expertise, expansive knowledge, and passion for mixology. In the book, you’ll find the essential techniques, skills, and finesse needed to create exceptional cocktails at home. But what makes Nick’s book unique, and harkens to experts like Binging with Babish, is his use of cocktails from popular culture as his launching point. Take James Bond‘s classic martini, which then morphs into a lesson on the science of ice and alcohol, and how shaking or stirring your drink affects flavor and consistency, or Don Draper‘s Mad Men Old Fashioned is the entry point to bourbon cocktails and how to complement bourbon’s flavor profile.
Cannabis for Creatives: How 32 Artists Enhance and Sustain Inspiration
Cannabis has long been used and revered for its many benefits, from its widely acknowledged medical applications to its commonly accepted ability to help people relax. And now, with more and more states and countries legalizing marijuana usage for all purposes, we’re finally reaching a tipping point where cannabis is achieving a level of mainstream acceptance and usage, especially among artists. In Cannabis for Creatives: How 32 Artists Enhance and Sustain Inspiration, photographer and cannabis advocate Jordana Wright details what you need to know to take full advantage of cannabis’ potential in your creative work.
Beginning with the basics (how cannabis grows, how it’s ingested, and the nuances of variety), Cannabis for Creatives tells the history of its usage and all the pertinent details of the plant itself—lineage, strains, appearance, flavor, terpenes, and the types of high you can experience. Wright also discusses the neuroscience of cannabis use, including how it affects the brain and how science measures creativity.
Vaughn Lowery, founder and publisher of 360 MAGAZINE, pens poignant prose. Move Like Water × Be Fluid is a stunning memoir documenting the author’s journey from a childhood in the Detroit’s subsidized, section 8 housing to a successful career in fashion and media. The arc of this remarkable passage twists and turns in surprising ways, ensuring readers will believe in the concept that this life truly is what you make it. The text will debut as an exclusive multi-volume installation within 360 MAGAZINE and marks the inception of the brand’s foray into publishing.
This provocative coming-of-age story explores the power of branding strategy, a technique the writer developed at an early age and carried with him throughout his lifetime. Lowery, from the time he was a young child, is able to comprehend that one’s innate, individual self is their greatest commodity in life. Through the highs and lows that inform his experience, he stays true to that ideal. Lowery puts forward a raw and compelling narrative of a child, and later a man, who repeatedly picks himself up, reimagines his life, and finds innovative ways to move forward. The self-empowerment so emblematic in Lowery’s character and story promotes readers to adopt the author’s tactics in their own lives.
The influence of prominent civil rights leader Joseph Lowery, the writer’s grandfather, is prevalent in this work. A beacon for both hope and progress during the Civil Rights Movement, the legacy of Joseph Lowery weighs heavily on the narrator. This, along with his upbringing and existence as a black man in America, make Lowery both introspective and contextually aware when it comes to race. Moreover, draws parallels between the movement his grandfather championed and led, and the Black Lives Matter movement of today, exposing the failures of our system and calling for meaningful, systemic change. Both Joseph and Vaughn Lowery are members of the first intercollegiate historically African American organization Alpha Phi Alpha. Lowery simultaneously considers the work he can do, as a singular human being, to forward social justice causes in his day-to-day life and interactions with others.
In 1920, his grandmother, Agnes Christine Moore Lowery (the little girl in the blue dress, also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha), came with her grandmother to become the first black to vote in Tennessee. The kids’ book, The Big Day, depicts their journey the day she voted, now available on Amazon here.
360 Magazine is also now selling one of a kind home goods via Chairish, a curated marketplace for the best in vintage and contemporary furniture, decor and art. Check out this piece designed by 360’s founder Vaughn Lowery.
In the year 2020, which has been afflicted with an overwhelming amount of change, there has never been a timelier moment for insight from a man like Lowery. As mentioned, Lowery’s deep ties and connections to racial justice in America feels incredibly relevant, as do his thoughts on digital media, something Lowery pioneered years before COVID-19 forced the world hurriedly online. Constantly at the forefront of social change, Move Like Water × Be Fluid offers an understanding of the current moment, yet looks forward to the possibility of an evolved, cosmopolitan world. One that Lowery aspires to through all his works, including this installation and 360 MAGAZINE.
As we follow the author through grade school, high school and on through Cornell University, we collect advice from a myriad of powerful secondary characters. From all walks of life, these secondary support systems offer Lowery the push he needs to continue on striving towards something better. We watch Lowery model the work ethic of his admired older sister, gain confidence from an encouraging teacher, change the trajectory of his life due to a neighborhood mentor, and learn from the critique of a Residential Advisor. This self-help-book stands apart for never failing to appreciate the importance of an individual’s support system. Fittingly, while the book catalogues Lowery’s journey to success, it inspires and encourages readers in the same way Lowery’s community uplifted him – to take action towards a meaningful life.
Comparable titles to Move Like Water × Be Fluid include other stories of individuals who later turned to publishing their experiences in self-help books. Numerous celebrity examples include Becoming by Michelle Obama, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, or The Path Made Clear by Oprah Winfrey. These titles, as well as Lowery’s first book, all feature introspection and explanations regarding the course of the authors’ lives.
The following descriptions outlines the chapter-by-chapter journey within Move Like Water × Be Fluid.
Chapter 1: The beginning of Lowery’s journey is marked by his complicated childhood in Detroit, distinctly connected to his sense of place and community. Financial struggles and surroundings reminiscent of the song “Gangsta’s Paradise,” as well as the author’s early experience with assault contextualize the course of Lowery’s life.
Chapter 2: A childhood mood, coupled with the realization of his intelligence, swiftly changed the direction of Lowery’s life. Following a move to New Jersey to live with his older sister, Lowery’s early experiences of racism shine a light on his passion for racial justice today. The opportunity to participate in an honored education program again changes the trajectory Lowery follows.
Chapter 3: This chapter offers insight into the ups and downs of high school, a narrative many are familiar with. Yet, Lowery’s poised observations throughout the chapter reflect his early understanding of the world.
Chapter 4: After a remarkable yet complex journey through high school, Lowery achieves the first of many dreams by gaining the chance to attend Cornell University in New York. At Cornell, he is able to expand his understanding of self and what he hopes to accomplish.
Chapter 5:Saks Fifth Avenue recruits Lowery to work in their corporate office, marking Lowery’s first foray into the world of economics and fashion. The advice he gains from mentors in the field prompts him to shift towards a career in acting and modeling, supplemented by working in the Medicare Department of U.S. Healthcare.
Chapter 6: New York, in all its hectic nature, pointed Lowery west towards California where he could further capitalize on his talents in the entertainment industry.
Chapter 7: This chapter details one of the events in Lowery’s life for which he is best known: his commercials as “Joe Boxer Guy” that overwhelmed the nation. Following ups and downs in Los Angeles, this success cemented Lowery’s understanding of his own talents as well as his ties to L.A.
Chapter 8: Following an offensive home invasion, Lowery pivots to continue embracing what life throws at him with appearances on NBC’s “Scrubs” and “America’s Next Top Model.”
Chapter 9: With plenty of capital and the space to complement his next steps, Lowery founded 360 MAGAZINE in 2008, powering through the tidal wave that was the recession all due to his own brains and the belief in his product and brand.
Chapter 10: After another painful reminder of the inadequacies of the justice system in America due to an unjust prison stay, Lowery’s comprehension of what is truly important is once again realigned. Despite his negative experiences, his magazine is able to be on the cutting edge of the Los Angeles scene.
Chapter 11: The number 360 is ubiquitous to Lowery – one embodies the other. His appreciation for both his own capabilities and expertise, as well as the ones of others, assures his magazine and brand are constantly evolving.
Chapter 12: Thinking on the future following the tragic death of a friend, Lowery is nowhere near finished and is more than ready to continue is many metamorphoses. He now exists in a space where he strives to empower others, all around the world. 360.
Move Like Water x Be Fluid, by Vaughn Lowery, is available this month exclusively on the 360 MAGAZINE’s website. 360 MAGAZINE has received numerous accolades, and has recently been featured on Dancing with the Stars. Stay in touch by following both Lowery (@vaughnlowery) and 360 (@360magazine)
Additionally Vaughn has an audio book titled, “Say Uncle: The Story of Vaughn Lowery” which loosely based on his childhood. It is available for here on Amazon Music. For additional info on Vaughn Lowery visit Wikipedia and IMDb.
In a cultural landscape filled with endless pundits and talking heads, Fran Lebowitz stands out as one of our most insightful social commentators. She will be at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre, for “An Evening with Fran Lebowitz,” on April 15, 2022. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 28th and are available HERE.
Lebowitz’s essays and interviews offer her acerbic views on current events and the media – as well as pet peeves about tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan. The New York Times Book Review calls Lebowitz an “important humorist in the classic tradition.” Purveyor of urban cool, Lebowitz is a cultural satirist whom many call the heir to Dorothy Parker.
Her writing — pointed, taut and economical — is forthright, irascible, and unapologetically opinionated.
Lebowitz worked odd jobs, such as taxi driving, belt peddling, and apartment cleaning (“with a small specialty in Venetian blinds”), before being hired by Andy Warhol as a columnist for Interview. That was followed by a stint at Mademoiselle. Her first book, a collection of essays titled Metropolitan Life, was a bestseller, as was a second collection, Social Studies. By turns ironic, facetious, deadpan, sarcastic, wry, wisecracking, and waggish, Lebowitz’s prose is wickedly entertaining. Her two books are collected in the Fran Lebowitz Reader, with a new preface by the author. Lebowitz is also the author of the children’s book, Mr. Chas and Lisa Sue Meet the Pandas.
Between 2001 to 2007, Lebowitz had a recurring role as Judge Janice Goldberg on the television drama Law & Order. She also had a part in the Martin Scorsese-directed film, The Wolf of Wall Street (2013). In an interview with the Paris Review, Lebowitz said “I’m not a nervous person. I’m not afraid to be on TV. I’m only afraid when I write. When I’m at my desk I feel like most people would feel if they went on TV.”
She can also be seen in various documentary films including the American Experience on New York City, as well as Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures (2016), Regarding Susan Sontag (2014), and Superstar: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol (1990), among others. In 2010 Martin Scorsese directed a documentary about Lebowitz for HBO titled Public Speaking. A new limited documentary series, Pretend It’s a City, also directed by Martin Scorsese, premieres on Netflix January 8, 2021.
Lebowitz was once named one of the year’s most stylish women by Vanity Fair. She remains a style icon. Lebowitz lives in New York City, as she does not believe that she would be allowed to live anywhere else.
360 Magazine has the opportunity to sit down with rising star, Hunter Sansone. Hunter is quickly making a name for himself in Hollywood with the characters he portrays on screen.
This winter, Hunter can be seen starring in Disney+’s highly anticipated sports film “Safety,” which was released to Disney+ on December 11. He also stars on CW’s hit series “Stargirl” as Cameron Mahkent also known as Icicle Jr. and is currently in the process of filming season two. We asked Sansone questions about his career, future and aspirations.
What has been your favorite role in your career so far?
Wow. That’s hard to say. Honestly, I don’t have a favorite. They have all been equally fulfilling. I learned different things from each project. I will say I am really into emotionally complex roles that involve a lot of raw emotional work.
What was your favorite part of working on the movie “Safety” for Disney+?
Being a part of an underdog sports film. I grew up watching these types of films, and they partially influenced my dream of becoming an actor one day. I played sports growing up, so to be able to utilize that childhood experience with my career was fun.
Do you have any exciting roles that are upcoming?
I am currently filming Stargirl Season 2, and that should be coming out sometime in 2021 on The CW. Few other things in the works that I can’t dive into at the moment.
I know you support the Stand Up for Pits Foundation, are there any other charities you would like to work with?
Rebecca Corry and the Stand Up For Pits foundation are incredible. They have done so much with ending discrimination towards pit bull type dogs. I have also recently partnered up with Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Their main focus being rescuing abandoned, abused, and neglected animals off the streets. Both incredible organizations that I plan to have my voice attached to for many years to come.
Since you grew up in Missouri, how did you get involved in acting? Did you have other future plans?
My mom has been a professional singer and vocal coach my whole life. She was my influence that led me down this path. She used to say to me that she thought I would be a good actor, but I didn’t think much of it for a few years. One day, I found myself curious and went to an acting class with her and I was hooked.
What is your favorite scene from “Safety” that you think viewers should be on the lookout for?
A combination of a few different scenes where Ray and I are sneaking Fay around the dorms. Definitely had some good laughs with those.
Do you have an idol you respect in Hollywood? What about them inspires you?
I’ve always respected Leonardo DiCaprio and how he attacks a role. He always gives 150%. He commits physically, mentally, and emotionally to every role. I try to approach every single one of my roles with that same tenacity and work ethic.
Tell us more about your character Daniel Morelli in the new movie.
Daniel is Ray’s roommate, teammate and best friend. He is the first person that Ray confides in about his situation with his little brother. You will see Daniel showing up for Ray in more ways than one throughout the film. He is all about family. Also, Daniel is an Italian kid from Long Island with a thick accent. I’m Italian myself so that was fun to be able to honor my Italian heritage on screen.
Tell us about the filming for Season 2 of Stargirl, can you give our readers an inside scoop?
We are working away on Season 2 as we speak. Having a blast while doing it. I can’t give you much, but what I can say is if you loved Season 1, you will definitely not want to miss Season 2. It should be coming out sometime in 2021 on The CW.
Where do you see your career going in the future, are there any goals you have for movies or TV?
I have big goals. I dream big. I recommend that to anyone with a dream. Don’t commit 50%. Set the biggest dreams for yourself as possible and go after them with every fiber in you. I think I’m going to keep them to myself for now and we can regroup down the road once a few of them have been accomplished.
