BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE Feb. '23

FEBR UARY 2023 ISSUE#029

MYKAL'S MUSIC BEING AUTHENTICALLY BLACK, TALENTED, & UNAPOLOGETICALLY GAY IN TODAY’S MUSIC INDUSTRY

TAMARA S. LEIGH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CONTENTS BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE IS A MONTHLY DIGITAL PUBLICATION CENTERED FIRMLY IN BLACK & BROWN QUEER QULTURE. BLAQUE/OUT FEATURES WRITERS, ARTISTS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, CREATIVES AND INFLUENCERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. WE ARE WORDS. WE ARE ART. WE ARE FASHION. WE ARE CULTURE. WE ARE MUSIC. WE ARE PROTEST. WE ARE WHERE BLAQUE QUEER CULTURE LIVES. FIND US ON FACEBOOK, IG, TIKTOK. TO SUBSCRIBE TO BLAQUE MAGAZINE, VISIT: HTTPS://ISSUU.COM/STORE/PUBLISHERS/BLAQUEOUTMAG/ SUBSCRIBE

FOR ADVERTISING, EMAIL ADVERTISING@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM FOR SUBMISSIONS, EMAIL TAMARALEIGH@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM

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MYKAL KILGORE: BEING AUTHENTICALLY BLACK, TALENTED AND UNAPOLOGETICALLY GAY IN TODAY'S MUSIC INDUSTRY

WWW.ISSUU.COM/BLAQUEOUTMAG WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM

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BLAQUEOUT MAG CONTRIBUTORS

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LIVING IN THE LIGHT JAVANNAH DAVIS

LOVE & FUTBOL

16 TODAY IN MUSIC

WHOSOEVER SINGS RONI WINSTON 03

EXCLUSIVE!

ARTIST SPOTLIGHTS FEATURING:

COVER DESIGN BY: TAMARA LEIGH COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: KAT HENNESSEY

JAZMINA, JUSTY, TRVPP & PHOENIX BLACK O'HARA ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN

FEBRUARY 2023 | ISSUE# 029

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BlaqueOUT contributors

Javannah J. Davis (she/her) resides in Rochester, NY where she has worked in healthcare for 19 years, is a self-published author, Founder/President of W.A.V.E Women Inc & CEO/Owner of Linjé Enterprises LLC. Javannah is passionate about healing, self-love, self actualization & helping others to live the best of their lives in a healthy way.

Benjamin Griffin III; (he/ him/his). Enjoys bringing laughter to those he encounters and a major collector of Diecast School Bus models. In addition, he has a heart for education & children!

Lastly, he is 1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"

Lade Breez (He/Her/Them) is an award winning 3x published author, publisher, philanthropist, humanitarian, motivational speaker, life coach, event host, youth tutor, artist developer & spoken word artist. Owner & founder of Express Me Poetry Business Services & Events, & Educated Blessyns LLC, improving this world one stage at a time. ExpressMePoetry.com

E.L. Winston of Fayetteville, NC (He,Him, His) Trans Community Advocate, Co-Founder of Lambda Gamma Omega Nu Fraternity. Just your everyday introspective old man and 1 half of Team Winston

Immani Love, (she/her) A Lesbian Erotic Poet, Author, Ordained Minister, Freelance Writer, Real Estate Agent, and overall witty, seductress with the voice of a Siren. An educated Vixen in sunny St. Pete, Florida.

Roni Winston aka The Mrs. aka Pastor Roni (She/Her/Hers) Fayettevlle, NC. Minister, educator, entrepreneur, couples' coach, writer, mom, and grandma.

Half of Team Winston.

Tina Marie Jones (she/her/hers) Founder of Uncover, LLC, mother of 4, activist, motivator, and columnist.

Mel Howard (he/him) Resides in Newport News, Virginia where he worked in finance industry for over 5years, is a columnists for BlaqueOUT Magazine and Founder/President of THRIVING TRANSMEN OF COLOR. Mel is passionate about community, self acceptance and forgiveness.

David Maurice Griffin (He, Him, His) Columbia, SC; Providing the gift of massage is what he does, but spreading awareness of HIV/AIDS is who he is…1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"

Tamara Leigh (She/Her)) Editor of Blaque/OUT Magazine. Lead Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Consultant with Blaque/OUT Consultanting with a focus on Intersectionality. Activist, Educator and Advocate.

Mom of 2. From NY, In FL.

February & Every Day We Celebrate

a word.

TamaraSanaaLeigh Editor-In-Chief

CHARLOTTE, NC

FEB 2023

BLAQUE/OUT FEATURE

ARTIST

THE SULTRY VOCALIST KNOWN AS JAZMINA GREW UP IN A FAMILY OF PREACHERS AND MUSICIANS, AND HONED HER SKILLS AT NEWARK'S ARTS HIGH SCHOOL. AFTER BEING DISCOVERED AS A VOCALIST WHILE A DRUMMER IN RUTGERS UNIVERSITY'S LIBERATED GOSPEL CHOIR, SHE WAS INTRODUCED TO HOUSE MUSIC BY ACE MUNGIN (ACEBEAT RECORDS) AND THE LEGENDARY CLUB ZANZIBAR. HER FIRST SHOW AS A MEMBER OF THE GROUP INTENSE WAS AN OPENER FOR THE LEGENDARY CECE ROGERS, WHERE HER GROUP’S HIT "LET THE RAIN COME DOWN" WAS A LOCAL CLASSIC ON THE TRI-STATE AIRWAVES. THE CLASSIC HOUSE TUNE STILL ENJOYS REGULAR ROTATION TO THIS DAY. HER PASSION AND JAZZ-INFLUENCED STYLE HAS BEEN EVIDENT IN ALL HER RECORDED WORKS. FROM HER BREAKOUT SINGLE “LET THE RAIN COME DOWN” WITH THE GROUP INTENSE IN 1990, TO HER SINGLES "RESCUE ME (WHY DON'T U)" AND "IT AIN'T EASY" WITH PRODUCER WILLY WASHINGTON, HER GOSPELTRAINED VOICE HAS ALWAYS STOOD OUT AMONG HER PEERS. SHE BELIEVES HER VOICE TO BE A BLESSING FROM GOD AND THAT SHARING THAT GIFT WITH OTHERS IS THE BEST WAY TO BE THANKFUL. RECORDINGS SUCH AS THE UNDERGROUND CLASSIC "I SEE YOU"(ACE BEAT), THE SMOOTH AND MELODIC “HIGH ON HOPE"(SHELTER), THE FUNK-FILLED "GOOD TIME"(KULT) SOLIDIFIED JAZMINA AS A HOUSE MUSIC PRINCESS. SHE HAS APPEARED ON COUNTLESS COMPILATIONS, AND HAS HAS WORKED WITH HOUSE MUSIC’S MOST NOTABLE VOCALISTS AND PRODUCERS, INCLUDING KENNY BOBIEN, BARBARA TUCKER, KERRY CHANDLER, JOEY NEGRO AND TONY HUMPHRIES. HER VOCALS ARE REGARDED AS LEGENDARY AND PRISTINE AMONG HOUSE MUSIC DIVAS. JAZMINA'S MOST RECENT PROJECT, " IN OUT TIME" WAS PRODUCED BY WILLY WASHINGTON FOR KNOZIZ RECORDINGS. JAZMINA ( NOW KNOWN AS "PASTOR ISAI" CURRENTLY RESIDES IN CHARLOTTE, NC, WHERE SHE IS PASTOR OF SANCTUARY OUTREACH MINISTRIES. A CREATIVE INSPIRATIONAL EXPERIENCE FOR MARGINALIZED CITIZENS. SHE IS ALSO A VISUAL ARTS EDUCATOR AND PSALMIST WITH THE NC POOR PEOPLE'S CAMPAIGN.

JAZMINA

"PASTOR ISAI" SHE/HER/HERS

Mykal Kilgore:

BEING AUTHENTICALLY BLACK,

TALENTED, AND UNAPOLOGETICALLY GAY IN TODAY’S

Music Industry

W

ith an infectious smile in his voice and a witty, peaceful demeanor, Mykal Kilgore has worked his way from church choir to cruise entertainer, to the Grammy nominated, Broadway and Television star that we see today. As a Black queer man, Mykal uses his platform to serve as a change agent for civil rights as well as issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. His instrument is guaranteed to educate, entertain, and elevate the lives of all who have the luxury of experiencing his unmatched sound. Recently, I had the honor of sitting down to speak with him about his journey, his passion, and what shaped him as an artist. Here’s what he shared…

I.L. “Thanks for sitting down with me, my main question is, What drew you to music?”

Mykal “I feel like music kind of grabbed me! When I was growing up in the church you had to either be an usher or be in the choir and I didn’t want to stand so I chose the choir out of sheer laziness. I did not realize that it was going to be the thing that was my life’s passion. One little decision steered my whole life. I have loved singing ever since those days in the choir.”

I.L. “ You sang with your church, went on to cruise lines, Broadway, becoming Grammy nominated, and mentored by Billy Porter. How did being mentored by Billy Porter’s mentorship shape your career direction?”

Mykal “I feel really blessed because I got to watch someone who is really excellent and who is really authentic negotiate and navigate his career. I got to see him make choices and open doors that made it easier for me to exist fully authentically. So I think really his mentorship is like being behind a bulldozer in a way. He’s making the path easier, I mean, it’s not easy but definitely because he exists it makes it easier for me to exist n my fullness. I always say I owe so much to him because not only did he give me an incredible opportunity early in my career, but he actually gave me the ability to function as human being in this industry. Before him, often you had to play a bit of a caricature of yourself to be ok. Being Black, and Gay and as I like to say, soft (I consider myself a soft person) sometimes can be difficult. He made it human in a way where before we were playing archetypes. I’m thankful to him for infusing his own humanity and truth into his career because it let me know that I could do the same.”

Written by Immani Love @ImmaniLove (she/her)

I.L. “How has being an openly gay man affected your career in this day and age? In this day and age with being a gay artist becoming more accepted, has it helped your career?”

Mykal “ I think I had to get out of my own way. I never got to experience life as a person in the closet. I came out of the closet in high school. To a lot people I’m perceived as Queer which is fine because I am. I didn’t have a period where I was in the closet. I do theatre!

So it did seem easier to be gay in my career. I was afraid to record because I thought I may be too gay to record but once I got out of my way out that, I got to experience my career as a bit of a “meritocracy” because there are so many people that are talented and worthy that

don’t get the opportunities. As I was saying about being Billy’s mentee, he forces authenticity, you can’t be around him and be fake because he’s gonna pull the truth out of you. It was like, ‘Ok are you gonna lie, or are you gonna be great? You can’t do both’ So I don’t know it it’s helped but it has made it impossible for people to look past the real me. When people see my art, they see me. You can’t have one thing without the other and I’m thankful for that.”

I.L. “You have accomplished so much at a young age. At 39, you’ve done Broadway, Television, and even viral on YouTube. One of my favorite musicals is The Wiz and seeing you on NBC for the Live version with Queen Latifah was a highlight. There was a quote about your performance on that show that I love. “With one crazybeautiful high note, the green-wigged Mykal Kilgore snatched ‘Y’all Got It!’ right out from under the mighty Queen Latifah as the MOST UNEXPECTED SCENE STEALER of the show.” How was that moment for you?”

Mykal “I wrote it because I wanted a song like this when I was 12yrs old. It’s the song I needed. Toni Braxton has a million of these, I love it, its a little bit of a sad love song of unrequited love. It proves your existence. I think that’s what art kind of does, it establishes that we were actually here. That our experiences are not just singular but it’s human. I wanted to create something that young black queer boys could go “I don’t have to change anything about this, I’ve experienced this. The barbershop can be such a minefield for queer folk and I wanted to turn this place that can sometimes be uncomfortable to being a place that could be a hotbed for fantasy. Literally this did happen to me n a barbershop but it can be anywhere, it doesn’t have to be a barbershop. The idea of seeing someone who spurs you on to fantasize, to dream. I want that, I want to be able to feel like that and have that fantasy.”

I.L. “What’s next for you?”

Mykal “That was something I manifested. As soon as they announced The Wiz, I was not only saying I want to audition, I was telling people I’m GOING to be in that! I finally got an audition and got in the room and they were like you’re gonna be one of the munchkins and I was like I just want to BE here. I think because I was open to it and available to it, it opened up to me. We were in the rehearsal room and just playing around and the director was like “Ooh, what are y’all doing?” and they decided to add it into the show! Before I knew it, it was a moment. I didn’t know it would go viral! We were just all having a good time, the show was almost over and we were just taking our breath because it was live and we made it to the end of the recording. There was so much excitement and nerves. It felt like a tribute to my family because it was like this big ‘ol gospel high note and that was my whole life growing up. Singing in the church choir as we would say,“hollerin” so it was nice to do something that felt extremely black, extremely focused on our community and to do it on a World stage and to be celebrated by it (black twitter just wrapped us up in their arms) was a moment in my career that reminded me how beautiful it is to do community. That’s something I never want to lose.”

I.L “You speak about your community, what is your community engagement these days?”

Mykal “I am like Issa Rae, I’m rooting for everyone Black at all times. I’m always thinking about the Black community. I have a real heart for Black Queer youth, and when I say youth, I mean all the way up like age 23-25yrs old. (They’re like babies to me still.) I feel like I was blessed to have queer elders, and that’s something I don’t think a lot of us got because there was whole generation of queer black men who were wiped out by a plague. It’s something I’ve always looked forward to being able to hold the hand of someone coming after me. Ithaca to do what Billy Porter did for me or I’m doing this whole life thing wrong.”

I.L. “Let’s talk about ‘The Man in the Barbershop’ which earned you a Grammy nomination. It’s being called ‘a love letter to the black gay man,’ Is that what you intended?”

Mykal “ Becoming more myself, the career stuff will take care of itself if I take care of me. That to me is the most important thing. There will be more writing, there will be more songs, there’ll be more theatre, more TV, all of that stuff but my biggest priority is to make sure I’m ok, take care of myself and to love on myself.

I.L. “ Is there a mantra or quote that you live by?”

Mykal “ Protect your Joy. I like that because it’s not passive, it’s work to protect it. That’s something that has truly become a priority of mine, to make sure it’s protected and treated as precious as it is.”

I.L. “Is there one thing that if you were to accomplish it, then you would say, I’ve made it. This is what I’ve always wanted.”

Mykal “ There are a few things, I don’t know if there would be one thing that would do it. I’ve always dreamed of having a Kennedy Center Honor, I’ve always watched them. I want to be named along the lines of Yolanda Adams and Fantasia Burrinos when it comes to benefits and honors. Like whenever there’s a tribute I always know if Fantasia there, it’s right! I want people to be like, ‘OMG, There’s a tribute, Mykal Kilgore has to be there!’

Also, I want to be the person to say ‘Yes.’ Like I want to be the person that if you have a vision or a dream and it’s good and it deserves to see the light of day, I want to be the person to go, ‘Let’s do it!’ And help you make it happen. That’s a big dream of mine and I feel like if I can do that, then I’ve made it.”

I.L. “Is there anything you’d like to share that I haven’t touched on?”

Mykal “I don’t know, you’ve been very thorough! (chuckles) I guess the only thing that I would add is that I want to see more queer people, especially queer people of color when its time to think about who represents ‘us’ as queer folk. During Pride season, at GLAAD, and in these spaces because I love all the big pop girl groups but when it comes time to find your headliners and the stars of Pride I want to see more queer (POC). These are spaces where we should feel safe but we should also feel elevated, not just safe, not just ok, we should feel GREAT! We should feel seen, powerful, and hopeful, especially in this post-pandemic world we’re able to do community in a way where we’re seeing each other as not just good but as great, let’s be great together, that’s something that’s important to me.”

I.L. “We have all your socials, you are @MykalKilgore everywhere, what’s your parting remark?”

Mykal “Just that I’m headed to the studio. Thank you for everyone, thank you for waiting for me, but new music is coming!”

who is Mykal Kilgore?

Mykal Kilgore’s artistry cuts through traditional barriers and represents the hope of gospel, the soul of R&B, and the vulnerability of country. The singer/songwriter’s debut album, A Man Born Black was released in 2019 and was an exploration of faith, loss, the stumble and spills on the way to maturity, and the beauty of hope and love.

Now, in 2021 Kilgore will release his new single “The Man In The Barbershop” (via Affective Music,) a story told from a Black Gay man’s perspective about his and many other’s experiences at the neighborhood barbershop where people gather and gossip about their community and the world.

“The Man In The Barbershop” is the first single from Kilgore since his GRAMMY-nominated single “Let Me Go,” from his A Man Born Black album. There, at the 63rd Annual GRAMMY Awards, Kilgore made history as the first openly gay artist to receive a nomination in the “Best Traditional R&B Performance” category. “The Man In The Barbershop” was produced by Jamison Ross, Cory Irvin, and John Michael Rouchell and Executive Produced by David S. Hargrett.

A born and raised Floridian, Mykal moved to Nashville, TN as a hopeful singer and songwriter after attending Florida State University. Eventually, his voice caught the attention of Tony® and GRAMMY® Award winner, Billy Porter during an audition.

Porter’s careful mentorship opened lanes for Kilgore to move to New York City and to enter the Broadway world. To date, his credits include Motown the Musical, The Book of Mormon, and Hair. Mykal has consistently chosen roles that elevate the positive representation of people of color including The Wiz Live! (NBC) and Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert (NBC).

Most recently, he appeared in Songs for a New World, Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods and The MUNY’s Smokey Joe’s Cafe.

With the release of “The Man In The Barbershop,” Mykal has once again stepped into the forefront to share his unique perspective with the world. As a Black queer man, Mykal uses his platform to serve as a change agent for civil rights as well as issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. His instrument is guaranteed to educate, entertain and elevate the lives of all who have the luxury of experiencing his unmatched sound.

Mykal is eager and hungry to share his new creations as his star continues to shine brighter and brighter in the postpandemic world.

@mykalkilgore everywhere

STATEN ISLAND, NY

BLAQUE/OUT FEATURE

ARTIST

BROOKLYN BORN, STATEN ISLAND RAISED ARTIST, JUSTY, CONTINUES TO PROVE WHY SHE WAS SELECTED AS A 2022 EMERGING LGBTQ ARTIST. HEAVILY INSPIRED BY THE WORKS OF ARTISTS SUCH AS J DILLA, AMY WINEHOUSE, NONAME, ANDERSON PAAK, AND LAURYN HILL, JUSTY CONTINUES TO EVOLVE, AND INCORPORATE ELEMENTS OF JAZZ, HIP-HOP, AND NEO SOUL INTO HER MUSIC. IN 2021, HER DEBUT ALBUM PAIN WITH BENEFITS WAS RELEASED WHICH FURTHER SOLIDIFIED JUSTY'S RISING STAR, AND WAS MET WITH POSITIVE ACCLAIM AND VARIOUS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTING. THIS YEAR JUSTY WILL BE EXPANDING HER ARTISTIC GROWTH WITH VARIOUS COLLABORATIVE SINGLES, AND HER FORTHCOMING SOPHOMORE ALBUM.

JUSTY JUSTYMUSIC.COM SHE/HER/HERS FEB 2023

THE OLD MAN'S E.L. WINSTON CORNER if you can be of service to anyone you certainly should be. And that family is the most important thing we have even when every member of your family doesn't have to share your DNA . Hard work pays off and to walk tall in your confidence but to also remain humble.

We move through this life so fast and forget every day here is not promised. As we get older, we start to stress more and live less. As a promise to myself and my nephew, I'm going to stress less and live more. I'm gonna dance in the rain and bathe in the sun. I'm going to tell those I love that I love them now while I have the opportunity to do so.

Rochelle J Photography

Julien's ong

Music is the thing that can bring and create emotion in every part of your life. Music has inspired, comforted and added to my happiest times. I believe life is the instrumental version and how we navigate it are our lyrics.

My nephew Juilen was tragically taken from this world January 8th of this year, but this is not going to be an article about grief or sadness or how laws need to be changed. It is about the powerful light this young man carried and how his life was a song of love, laughter and happiness. J Chief as I affectionately called him had the most infectious smile. You couldn't help but feel happy in his presence. He was always helping others, listening to his friends' issues and offering a hand where he could. He at 20 years old has shown me through the way he navigated this thing called life that life's too short to be upset about things that don't matter and that

They say you can see the character of a man by the way others speak of him when he isn't around. Well, I think that J Chief’s ears should be ringing. His impact on those he shared space with is undeniable. I, along with all those who love him, will miss him terribly, but we will play the song of his love and laughter for as long as we are blessed to be among the living. Do an old man a favor and go dance in the rain and tell someone you love what they mean to you and say a prayer for our family as we learn to sing Julien’s song without him. It’s never goodbye but ALWAYS I'll see you later!!!

Our deepest sympathies go out to the friends, family & everyone whose life was touched by Julien. May his spirit & music live on always.

-Blaque/OUT

ratingcero.com

LOVE and FUTBOL

Roni Winston

Most people in the world do not appreciate how

world with her anyway.

cultural norms change over time, but they change because of people. Not the people observing from

Both Mbappe and Rau are significant to the history of

the back in the nosebleeds’ section, but rather

LGBTQIA+ people because their relationship was not

those who actively participate on the stage

defined by people. It was about them and testing the

amongst the action.

strength of relationships. They are simply two young people exploring who they are and what they want.

Kylian Mbappé Lottin did just that when he was photographed at the 75th annual Cannes Film Festival with his then girlfriend, 32 year old model Ines-Loan Rau, who was also the first openly Trans woman to be a Playboy playmate. Mbappe was simply living like most 24 year olds by enjoying the privileges of youth and dating, but he has a twist. Mbappe is known on an international scale because of his abilities as a footballer with the Ligue 1 club, Paris SaintGermain, and France’s National Team. In Mbappe’s position, as one of the top footballers, the very aggressive and male centered world, could draw

Those social norms be damned!

The relationship was short lived, but it sang volumes to the people. It is the kind of story that we tell in our circles with pride because this kind of refusal to hide is representative of the impact we have had. There was a time when Mbappe and Rau could have been arrested or killed for their relationship. Haters and hate still exist, but haters can not take away the pleasures of being your authentic self. Mbappe is the epitome of masculinity respecting the energy of Rau’s trans femininity. Although the relationship has ended, they have been game changers. The hope is that within our community we understand visibility

the ire and ridicule of his peers for this

as our super power and those who date/love us

relationship, but he stepped out in the

respect the responsibility.

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA

FEB 2023

BLAQUE/OUT FEATURE

ARTIST

I’M TRVPP MONTANA. I WAS RAISED IN FAYETTEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA. I CURRENTLY RESIDE IN VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA. MY CURRENT STYLE OF MUSIC IS RAP, BUT I AM ALWAYS LOOKING TO EXPAND MY LANE. SOME OF MY BIGGEST MUSIC INFLUENCES ARE MY POPS, J. COLE, LIL DURK, MONEYBAGG, XXXTENTACION, LIL BABY, AND POODIEVILLE. I GOT INTO MUSIC AROUND THE AGE OF 7 WHEN I SAW MY STEP DAD DOING IT, AND WANTED TO DO IT SINCE, AND I JUST RECENTLY STARTED BEING ABLE TO RECORD AND PUT MUSIC OUT. I AM CURRENTLY AN INDEPENDENT ARTIST. I’M MAKING AND PUTTING AS MUCH QUALITY MUSIC OUT AS I CAN, AND ALSO BEING BLESSED WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE ABLE TO PERFORM AT SHOWS AND GET MY NAME AND MUSIC OUT THERE.

TRVPP

mvntxnx2xs Dreux Pierre taxfreedreux

MONTANA HE/HIM/HIS

INTRODUCING lade BREEZ

Interviewer: E. L. Winston

Brandy “Lade Breez” Elam is an author, spoken word artist, motivational speaker, event host, mentor, and counselor coming out of the dirty south. Her skills are unparalleled and she is constantly upping her game for the people.

1. You recently added songwriter to your resume. Why was that such a natural progression for you? It was a very natural transition considering lyrically, all music is just poetry with a beat.

2. How did you get into spoken word? I had a need to write, but when that stopped being enough, I was introduced to DEF POETRY when I was still a child. I would journal to hide from things that brought me discomfort. When I became an adult, it became my outlet to speak out against social injustices and my rights as a masculine of center (MOC) person and Black woman.

3. What is your motivation as a creator? My motivation is being true to myself. I realized years ago when I tried to retire from my craft that it isn’t something you do, but that it is something that is part of who you are. It is who I am and the world is my muse.

4. You have been involved in a historic moment in your city. Tell

(ExpressMePoetry.com) or digital

us about it and how it felt to be involved? Whew! Which

copies on Amazon. When you order

one?! In November of 2021, I was honored to host the very

directly from my website, each copy

first Black hosting of a hip hop concert in the art halls of the

comes with a customized autograph.

River Center of Performing Arts. It was the very first time in the history of the Center that an event like that had been

7.

held there. In my philanthropic work, I try to always be fully

connect with you? You can find me on

present in standing up for the cause and in June of 2022, I

all social media sites at Lade Breez. I

was honored to participate in Columbus, Georgia’s award to

am also a quick find on Google under

COLGay Pride Committee of a Proclamation of the City

Express Me Poetry or Lade Breez.

deeming June as Pride Month. Both of these monumental

Readers can also book my motivational

occasions push me to do more.

speaking, poetry reading, hosting, or

5. How would you encourage someone just starting out with

Lastly, how and where can readers

reading/writing in schools.

spoken word? I would tell anyone who is thinking about doing spoken word to ‘just do it’. Don’t think about who will

I am so grateful for the time Lade

like it or who won’t. Do it for yourself and love yourself for

Breez took for this interview to happen.

doing it. There isn’t a wrong way to do it.

We must show support within our own

6. What else would you like to add that I may not have

community. Lade Breez stands as an

mentioned? I am a 3 time published author with one more

example of working in the community

book due to release later this year. You can find each

with mutually beneficial results. Keep

publication from “Journeys of a Long Walk” to “Point Me to

doing your thing!

Poetry” as well as “Journeys Traveled” on my website

today in music Brandy “Lade Breez” Elam (He/Her/Them) Often times, the music of the moment sets the inflection for your emotional standing; not only for motivation to get people moving, but to even set the tone for the entire day; but how deep is music intertwined throughout life really?

For centuries the culture has used music to set the tone for any and all aspects of life. Our ancestors would use music to strengthen tribal soldiers before battle, to solidify war, to celebrate victory, to encourage success, to respect their fallen, even to consummate a union between two lovers. Our culture has used the rumble of the drums to incite the crowd at the beginning of sports arenas and fields; and then carries the beat of the battle until the final click of the clock to end the game. It has been marveled and respected, it has been attacked and criticized; It has been blamed and praised. It has been music.

What has become of the mainstream music today? The gyrating, the lyrics, the messages, the meanings, what has it solidified in our now?

A number of the largest moguls in our time, have been publicly crucified and murdered well before their bodies lay cold in the hereafter. I wonder when it became live streaming news for the personal opinions and private lives of an entertainment artist, became grounds for social murder. Opinions in societal normalities have deemed multiple men criminal, but how are we so naïve to become accessory to their murder?

I’d never agree to nor express any type of camaraderie for a man who has participated in taking the innocence away from young girls, but how is he the only one punished to the full extent of the law, while men like Elvis Presley, Hugh Hefner, still rest peacefully as legends or like Neil Diamond who gets to live out his life peacefully?

What about Kanye West? He made a tweet about being the original Jew, and all of his life was affected.

It didn’t stop when he said “white lives matter”, the world didn’t flinch when he said the music is corrupt and demonic. The world had nothing to say about the valid points made at all; the streaming algorithms insured the masses would only see what could be considered offense to his following.

How can a country be so hell bent on punishing murder, overly sexualized content and drugs, but only if it pertains to persons of color? How is the music important if it is allowed to perpetuate these violent acts to our communities while our other art forms like, R&B, NeoSoul, and country music, are almost a thing of the past; unless it is from those outside of the culture.

But here we are, today in music.

DESMOND the CREATOR

Interviewer: E. L. Winston

Following the notes of our music theme this month, I reached out to someone who I believe has great influence creatively. Mr. Desmond Tyrone is a creator. He doesn’t make music, but he makes the kinds of moments others can admire, enjoy, and respect. After interviewing Desmond, I recognized that just like the songs of our youth, there are people we meet in our lives who can leave a lasting impression.

1. Desmond, I know that you are a mentor. How did you become interested in mentoring others? I became a mentor because when I was incarcerated I started attending a program called Thinking for a Change. When I was released, that same program helped me become a certified peer specialist. I developed a passion for giving advice, encouraging others, and uplifting my peers. I wanted to use these powers in a positive way.

2. What motivated you to start hosting educational workshops about transitioning and what purpose do they serve? I started hosting educational workshops because I always wanted someone to help me navigate and guide me through my transition. I had to do most of it alone and through my own research. Since that happened to me, I vowed to be the person I needed. I am determined to be that person for others going through the same experience.

audition tapes and I had the good fortune

There are so many people who are ignorant about who we

of being cast. Filming with others like

are and what it takes so I figured I could help by being an

myself has been one of the best

open book for educational purposes and to help people

experiences in my life.

understand our lifestyles.

6. What else would you like for our readers

3. You also have a fitness group. What is it and how did you get

to know about you? I would like everyone

started? Fitness Whorez was created during the pandemic. I

to understand the significance of spiritual

wanted to help others of trans experience stay motivated

transformation. This helps us to be the

and uplifted. Virtual workout sessions were one way I felt I

best we can be and to live a creative life. I

could contribute.

am the kind of person who enjoys

4. With everything else you do as a community advocate, you

listening to others and giving advice, so

are also an actor. What was your break into the business? I

that others can survive their rough or

have a friend who is a writer and they started a web series

complicated times. Lastly, we don’t have

called ‘Lesbireal’, so I asked about joining. I realized that I

to rush on anything because we need to

loved being in front of the camera. Acting has gotten me

trust the process. Just smile.

through a lot of dark times and it has kept me out of trouble.

I really enjoyed all of the rehearsing and working with my

I thoroughly enjoyed interviewing

cast mates.

Desmond and I hope you enjoyed it as

5. You have a new project coming out, share a little about it.I

well. Don’t forget to be on the lookout for

became involved with Eden’s Garden because in all my days

me on social media platforms as

it was one of the first films I saw about the trans experience.

DesmondGang_Ace. Let’s support

A few years went by and I saw a casting call for new actors. I

someone in our community doing

couldn’t let the opportunity pass me by. I sent in my

amazing things!

LOVE LIVES IN US...

The Winstons Winston and the Mrs. (E. L. and Roni)

Love lives in us…the Winstons and we want to share a little of it with you. When you think about a loving relationship, you can think of it as a well written ballad. The chords must work well together and each singer must know their part for the harmony. While we appreciate all of the equality talk in many modern relationships, what does that look like? It actually looks like everyone playing their roles! After you read the Winstons’ sheet music, see if you agree.

The Mrs. I am a caretaker and a nurturer, so I needed a relationship that allowed me to be these things. In our home, I do the cooking and cleaning (yes, I have a full time job). I love my career and I love my role at home. I go to bed each night feeling harmonious because I have filled my part.

Winston and I had looooong discussions about the importance of roles to each of us, so when we got married we each knew what we wanted.

Now, dividing roles as specifically as we have may not work for everyone, but it works for us. We don’t have disagreements about who is responsible for what. No one feels the other is taking their authority or power away. If we do come across some discomfort in a situation, it really just takes us a moment to figure out whose role it mostly closely is associated with. We also regularly check in about the lyrics of our love song. Are there any things that need to change? Or are we unable to maintain something that we previously did? Then, we talk through what changes sound like and how we feel about them. Keeping in unison means that we continuously fine tune our instruments. This helps us to make beautiful music!

The Mrs. I am a caretaker and a nurturer, so I needed a relationship that allowed me to be these things. In our home, I do the cooking and cleaning (yes, I have a full time job). I love my career and I love my role at home. I go to bed each night feeling harmonious because I have filled my part.

Winston and I had looooong discussions about the importance of roles to each of us, so when we got married we each knew what we wanted.

Now, dividing roles as specifically as we have may not work for everyone, but it works for us. We don’t have disagreements about who is responsible for what. No one feels the other is taking their authority or power away. If we do come across some discomfort in a situation, it really just takes us a moment to figure out whose role it mostly closely is associated with. We also regularly check in about the lyrics of our love song. Are there any things that need to change? Or are we unable to maintain something that we previously did? Then, we talk through what changes sound like and how we feel about them. Keeping in unison means that we continuously fine tune our instruments. This helps us to make beautiful music!

Winston Like the Mrs. said, we had a lot of discussions about roles, how we felt about them, and how we saw ourselves in this song called life we were creating. In my wedding vows to my wife, I promised her that our hearts would always beat in sync and I take that vow very seriously. I can’t stress enough that communication is key and as we grow as individuals that we pour into our relationship so that we also grow as a couple. It keeps us on the same beat. Another way, we keep our love song playing in sync is that we are not concerned with how someone else’s love song is playing. We don’t listen to people who have so many opinions on how we should be singing our song.

This love song has stretched me, comforted me, made me grow up, and show up. I’m always excited to hear the next verse. My prayer today and everyday since we met is that I never fail to protect, provide, and comfort her and that our hearts always beat in sync.

Thoughts to Leave You When you and your partner discuss your love song, it is not that you have to be as traditional as the Winstons, but more about how you all compose for yourself. Be sure it is a song that suits both parties’ strengths, but that you understand your weaknesses as well. Don’t assume your partner knows all the lyrics. Give each other the grace to miss a note sometimes.

Remember that you are building unity not creating chaos.

It is always about finding how love lives in your relationship.

CHICAGO, IL

BLAQUE/OUT FEATURE

ARTIST

PHOENIX CIARA MARTIN, BORN RICHARD ERIC MARTIN AUGUST 10, 1989 HAS ALWAYS HAD A LOVE FOR THE ARTS, AT A VERY YOUNG AGE SHE BEGAN SINGING IN CHURCH BEING BORN AND RAISED IN THE TRADITIONAL BLACK CHURCH WITH VERY STRICT BELIEFS HER SEXUALITY WAS ALWAYS AN ISSUE, SHE WAS BLESSED IN 2017 TO RECORD LIVE AS RICHARD ERIC MARTIN (HIGHER) UNFORTUNATELY SHE WAS NOT LIVING IN HER TRUTH. AFTER MUCH PAIN AND YEARS OF SUFFERING SILENTLY SHE FINALLY MADE THE DECISION TO LIVE IN HER TRUTH AS A TRANSGENDER WOMAN. WITH 14 YEARS IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY (PHOENIX BLACK O’HARA) SHE HAS BEEN BLESSED TO PERFORM ALL OVER THE UNITED STATES, ALSO HOLDING A NATIONAL PRELIMINARY TITLE MISS GAY BREW CITY USOFA (2014) NOW, PHOENIX CIARA MARTIN CONTINUES TO SHARE HER GIFT OF MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT TO ALL PEOPLE FOR ALL PEOPLE.

PHOENIX BLACK FEB 2023

O'HARA SHE/HER/HERS

YOUTU.BE/OBF9RVNUNGU

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- Pastor Roni

PORTRAITS PRESTIGE BY: PHOTO

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Looking for a little more guidance on what life might bring you this month? Tarot cards, read by an intuitive reader, can provide us that guidance. While your personal reading may vary slightly, the readings here are directed for all of those born in the same month for the current month. For a more specific reading to your specific circumstance contact Doreen Scanlan on FB Messenger to set an appointment.

AQUARIUS Be ready to stand firm this month. Step into your power by finding the right intellectual balance. It is going to be a challenge for you to determine when to stop just thinking about something and put it into action. This could show up in any number of areas of your life. The first of which is your relationship situation. This is an important time to know how far along your feelings are for your special someone and make sure they know. It is also important to make sure you are balancing your work and play. Try to remember that sense of your adventure that you approached each day with , when you were a kid.

PISCES This is a month to rely on your wisdom to make decisions. Keep the prize in mind in taking steps along the way. They are a means to an end. You are building your dream .

Anything that is not a brick in your castle is only a brick. Use tools at your disposal to make things happen. If you don’t have the right tools , find someone that does and ask for advice. You should be looking to make a major lifestyle change by the end of this month to move in the direction of your dreams.

ARIES Starting out this month is like a blast from the past and not a good one. You may have things occur that are unresolved for you. Don’t feel like you have to take them on alone.

Utilize your support system to put an end to it once and for all. Once you are able to refocus on the present and feel like things are back in balance you can start planning your next moves. Speaking of moves, it looks like you may be looking to move to a new house or job before the month ends. This is a great idea for you at this time. You will not only enjoy the search but will love where you land.

TAURUS The practical side of you is going to take center stage this month. You are likely to try to find reasonable ways to accomplish the goals that you are setting for yourself. You also may find that you will need additional information to move forward on some of them. Don’t look at this as a waste of time but more as an investment in you. If you have a significant other don’t forget to find time to honor them this month . Not just because of Valentine’s Day , just so they know they matter. Let them know that all this hard work you have been putting in isn’t just for you but to make a better life for both of you and that takes time.

GEMINI Start out this month by looking at what dreams you have had that are still not in your reality. Don’t let them die just because they haven’t shown up yet. Remember that there is a process and processes take time. It is also important not to blame yourself or anyone else for it not happening yet, You obviously were aligned enough yet for it to come into physical existence. That doesn't mean it isn’t still growing. Have faith that you are aligning with your desires . Affirm that you know they are real. Find the feeling you will have when they finally happen.

CANCER This is a month of new beginnings for you. Reach out and meet new people.

Some that could help you in different aspects of your life both personal and professionally. Those connections have the potential to bring about new opportunities. This is no time to be shy. Say hi to people you come in contact with . You never know where that conversation could go. Get out of your head before you talk yourself out of good ideas. Introduce more play and laughter into your life. You are taking things way too serious. Push yourself to experience new things.

LEO You may find yourself at a spiritual crossroads this month. Play with the possibilities. Not everything has to be so serious. Let yourself move outside your comfort zone. As long as you are staying true to yourself there is a lot of room for expansion. There is at least one new person that you will meet this month to share your ideas with. Don’t spend too much time thinking just act. It might just be fun.

VIRGO You may be drawn to reading this month. It would be a great idea to study something that can set you apart from others that do the same things that you do . Having more knowledge and a willingness to apply it could benefit you. There may be someone that you encounter mid month that could help you find the best connections in order to advance your career. You may even think about starting a business of your own.

LIBRA Big changes are coming for you this month. Some you will initiate and some will be outside of your control. Look for the opportunities these changes bring instead of focusing on the disruption itself. If you maintain your integrity throughout it will point you in the right direction. You are going to find yourself more production mid month than in the beginning. Wait for the inspiration. Make moves to find more things that allow you to be happy. Positive changes are coming.

SCORPIO This month can be overwhelming for you if you don’t get a grip on your obligations.

You may have to use your best judgment to decide what is most important. This is a time to celebrate life, not get defeated by it. Remind yourself what is most important to you and act accordingly. It is time to set a new formula for doing what is required of you . Don’t be afraid to change things up.

SAGITTARIUS You may be drawn into some intense conversations early in the month. This is a great opportunity to both take in new information and look at things from a new perspective. Tap into your intuition before you take any action. You may also have a very humbling experience mid month that opens the door for new opportunities.

Be willing to see the lessons . You will benefit from this in that you will be given another opportunity to be recognized and appreciated.

CAPRICORN Time to step up your game. Time to start new things that you haven’t tried before.

This is a great time to convince others to join you. Collaborations are key to success. You may run into someone from your past that wants to stir things up again though. Don’t let this throw you off. Keep dreaming and setting your sights on your future ideas.

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