Volume: 3 Issue : 2
ed, d n i en m ated, p o e c For th y sophisti l. rall ona cultu n professi urba
A South Georgia Treasure
SERENBE
CELEBRATING YEAR 2
YEAR 2 HONEYSPOTLIGHTS
Questions Comments Suggestions or to join Our Mailing List, email us at thewritetracklcg@aol.com
Kameron Corvet Dain Harris Jose James Jesse Boykins III Mahogany Dust Liv Warfield Darnell Levine Musinah Dwele Drake Ayah
A Couple of Words from LCG ... Time sure flies when your having fun. We have official reached another milestone with the completion of year two of The Write Track. I think our name change from Words and Times to The Write Track has helped propel us to new levels. Last year about this time we were revamping our entire look; the addition of color, visuals and more content are some the obvious changes. I am ecstatic that readership has increased at least 50 percent in the last year. In order to make year three even bigger and better I am hard at work laying out the foundations for our website which I hope to launch early fall. If there are topics that you would like to see more of in this upcoming year, please send me an email. Last but not least, thank you for your support.
Guest Contributor
Special Thanks
Korey “Kris� Smallwood is a writer/ director who grew up traveling the world, and is the co-founder and CEO of Precise Minds Inc., a film production company based out of Chicago, Il. Film may be his calling, but he also has a deep love for writing, travel (can’t shake that military-brat wanderlust), food of all kinds, music, sneakers, and all things New York City. Bruce Lee movies and classy, sassy women are some of his favorite things. Reality shows are not. Just so you know.
LCG THE WRITE TRACK 2nd Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
Contributed interview with Renee Dion
MAY
2009
9 SUBLIME DONUTS’
FEATURES
9 TRIBUTE TO JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN
Tangerine DonUT
Look What’s Nside
8 MISO THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition
P. P. P. P. P. P. P. P. P. P. P.
4 Destination Location 5&6 Interview with Renee Dion 7 The Search Within 7 Obsessed 7 Rooibee Red Tea 8 Varasanoʼs Pizza 8 Miso 8 La Pietra Cucina 9 Sublime Donuts 9 Tribute to John Hope Franklin 9 History Lesson
May 18, 2009
The Blue Eyed Daisy and A Cascading Fountain in Palmetto, Georgia.
ON THE COVER
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THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
DIRECTIONS FROM ATL Take I-85 South past the airport to exit 69. Take exit 69 and follow signs for South Fulton Parkway. Go about 15 miles and turn left onto Cochran Mill Road. Go 2.6 miles until Cochran mill dead ends into Hutcheson Ferry Road. Turn right onto Hutcheson Ferry Road and go about 2 miles.
INTRODUCING RENEE DiON The first time I heard Renee Dion sing, I felt the need for something I hadn’t yearned for in quite some time: transcendence. It was a showcase in a crowded bar on the Northside of Chicago, and some type of artist showcase was taking place. Even though I only caught the tail end of her set, I was immediately transported back to my boyhood. The end of the eighties came to mind, and my mother playing Anita Baker’s single “Angel” over and over on a Sunday hit me right between the eyes. Good memory. Renee’s womanish, syrupy voice brings to mind soul sirens like Anita Baker and Faith Evans when she exploded on the scene in the mid-nineties. There is a richness and honesty to her writing and vocal stylings that make you want to listen, because you feel like she believes; and that makes you want to believe too. Being an independent artist in today’s maze of a music industry can be a blessing and a curse, but you have the feeling that she’ll make it through alright. I had the opportunity to get a brief interview with Renee Dion while she took a break from recording for her newest project.
Tell me about some of your influences. RD: Well I’ve been a Brandy fan since “94” Tribe Called Quest, The Roots (black thought is secretly my man). I’m a HUGE Jay-Z fan, Kanye, Coldplay, Mary J, Sade and new comers to the game Drake and Kid Cudi, I am very influenced by HipHop!!! What is it that drew you to creating music? RD: My dad used to be a DJ and he mainly played Jazz and I couldn’t stand it, he would take me to his gigs and I would complain the whole time, but just like anything-”If you digest it, it will stick” so I began to like it a little, then eventually fell in love, and it really got bad when I heard my first Anita Baker record it was over then!! Jazz was my introduction to music and I am eternally greatfull because it taught me freedom in expression and how colorful music truly is. Talk about the songwriting process...What inspires your writing? RD: Ever since I was a child I’ve carried a journal, i’ve always been sensitive to my surroundings so inspiration hits me all the time, the songwriting process for me changes from day to day I don’t have any set rules I just go.........What inspires my writing, well My past My present and other peoples business, I listen alot. Talk about growing up in your hometown. RD: I grew up in Youngstown Ohio, also known as the Murda Capital but as a child I wasn’t aware of that, I had a dope childhood really- We lived on Dewey Street on the North side, your typical middle class neighborhood. We had a candy store down the street from our house called CandyLand and on Saturdays my mom would give me and my brother all her change and we would get all the penny candy are little hands could grab. I was a tomboy and my bestfriend lived in the house behind us so I used to jump the fence to go play everyday. My grandparents lived down the street from us in the biggest house ever so they were always close. Growing up in Youngstown for me was an adventure wouldn’t trade it.
THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
What made you want to be a singer and not just a songwriter? RD: Because just being a singer is boring and vice-versa, I’ve tried it it doesn’t work for me I need both in my life, and as far as just being a songwriter especially for songwriters that want to have a career themselves as a singer it’s difficult, everybody can’t be Ne-yo or the Dream and write hits for others as well as themselves. And right now i’m a little selfish I have so much that I want to say so I can’t give that away. But i’ve been songwriting for others for years so I’m sure in the future I will be led right back to it. Who are your favorite artists and why? RD: Plain and simple I love REAL artist like trendsetters risky artist that just say here I am! Like my homeboy says “The Fearless” What kind of music do you listen to on a regular basis? RD: Hip-Hop baby!! with a dash of Soul/R&B Are you working on anything currently? RD: Yesssss I AM!!!! I am officially working on my first LP it’s like my introduction to the world, my debut. So get ready world. Is there anything you really want to convey in your writing/music? RD: Hope,LOVE, and Escapism. Do you like to be deeply involved in the production process? Why or why not? RD: I love being involved in the production process my mentor Blaze (by the way he just produced Day26 first single”Imma Put it on Her” go cop that album) taught me how to “Vibe” and really feel the music and the words will come naturally. And i’ve been blessed with an amazing partner E-ali we bring different talents to the table but at the end of the day we make great records. But yes I gotta be involved, production is the foundation of a song. Outside of music, what type of creative endeavors are you interested in? RD: Mos Def want to do movies, comedic roles for sure, cause if I wasn’t doing music I would be a comedienne I love to make people laugh. And honestly where ever else God places me I know in some way I will work with communities all across the world, how ever I can help. And everybody that knows me will tell you I am in love with sneakers mainly adidas; I used to work at the adidas heritage store (shouts out to the Chi-town and the Atl store), but my dream is to create my own line through adidas that would be like getting a Grammy for real. Looking for a label or staying independent? RD: Yup I still believe in Record Deals!!!! And at this point whatever gets my music out to the world where do I sign!! Where can people check you out online? RD: I’m gonna make up my own question since you forgot to ask: Yo everybody check me out on myspace.com/sowritefalife I will be updating my page very soon with new music new pics new me I love you all.......
K Smalls
THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
Please Please Review This Album
FEATURED SELECTION ROOIBEE RED TEA Both refreshing and good for you, Rooibee Red Tea is not just another tea brand. Made from South African red tea known as rooibos reap the benefits of a bottled beverage high in antioxidants. Certified organic, naturally caffeinated and a low calorie count, you will feel guilt free indulging in one of the six flavors: Cranberry Pomegranate, Peach, Lemon Honey, Unsweet, Sweet, and my personal favorite Watermelon Mint. Sipping one of these on a hot summers day will remind you of a cool breeze. Grab a 12 oz. bottle today currently being sold in Kentucky, Idaho, Georgia, Ohio, Alabama, Missouri and the Carolinas.
The Search Within Jazz enthusiasts everywhere are excited about trumpeter Sean Jones March 24th album release The Search Within. Making leaps and bounds in the world of jazz his maturing sound and complex melodies reminds us that modern jazz is still alive and well. Releasing album number five just shy of his 31st birthday, Jones has a lot to celebrate. He has just accepted a position as Artistic Director of Cleveland Jazz Orchestra. Both soft and lively melodies are reflected on The Search Within. This is his most personal album to date. “Letter of Resignation” welcomes a return from vocalist Carolyn Perteet, who also appeared on Jones, 2007 release Kaleidoscope. Album favorites include “Summers Spring”, “Life Cycles” and “Transitions”. Although this album in its entirety is the most desired of his collection, I am still hypnotized by “Allison” a cut from his last record. One of our first honey spotlights in 2007 this trumpeter is on the move and taking the North East by storm.
A REEL GOOD TIME
www. rooibeeredtea.com
OBSESSED Rainforest Films and director Steve Shill bring a 2009 version of Fatal Attraction to the big screen with the recent release of Obsessed. Shill who has plenty of experience directing television shows may have had some influence over casting directors choosing hometown born Idris Elba to star in this film. There is a lot of buzz surrounding Elba these days. Spectators are wondering if the British born hunk is being groomed as the next Denzel Washington. If speculation is true, Elba would have some large shoes to fill. Beyonce Knowles was cast to play Elba’s wife and it’s no surprise, Matthew Knowles was listed as an executive producer. Derek and Sharon Charles had the picture perfect life; a wonderful marriage, small child, nice home and expensive cars. Their world would be turned upside down when Lisa played by Ali Lader entered the picture. The Lisa character was a temporary hire at Dereks’ firm and once she set her eyes on him she wouldn’t stop until she got what she wanted. Topics of infidelity, communication, trust, office dating and race are all explored in this film.. The movie is worth seeing and has remained one of the top 5 box office movies for 4 weekends in a row. My impression is that this might be Beyonce’s best role to date.
THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
EATING IN ATL
Varasano’s Pizzzzeria
Week two of the opening of Varasano’s Pizzeria on Peachtree Street there were no signs unless you count the small valet one alerting drivers on the heavily traveled Peachtree Street that a new restaurant had arrived. More upscale than your typical pizza joint, its becoming a trend in Atlanta for restaurants to be located at the bottom level of office buildings. Their simple menu is composed of 9 pizza pies and a few select salads. The best part of the margherita pizza was the crust. The sauce was skinny and the fresh slices of mozzarella and basil leaves were not enough to cover an entire slice. With very few options for additional toppings I decided to add garlic, hoping that the addition would send my taste buds into a frenzy, but no such luck. If you want to save a few bucks the recipe for the crust can be found online and you can create your own pizza at home. If you just want a night out on the town, the drinks and atmosphere might be enough to attract patrons, but not the pizza.
Miso Opening just in time for summer, the small live/work development on Edgewood Avenue very close to Krog Street is now home to Atlanta’s newest sushi house. Advertising a coming soon sign for almost a year, the wait is over for Inman Park and Cabbage town neighbors. Miso, a very popular staple in Japanese cuisine which is essentiality a soybean paste is also the chosen name for this eatery. Enter the cozy establishment and have a seat at the sushi bar or choose a table more fitting for a conversation or business meeting. Begin your meal with some edamame, or
La Piettra Cucina
as to be expected, miso soup that arrives at your table in this eye catching black bowl trimmed in red with lid and clever spoon rest. Open for lunch and dinner, enjoy a complimentary glass of wine as you peruse all of the sushi options. If you like a little crunch I recommend one of the rolls coated in panko ( Japanese bread crumbs.) After you finish the meal, a flower is presented to you with frozen grapes attached to sticks almost resembling lollipops. The warm and friendly staff provided great service. I look forward to a return visit.
Nestled away in a small space on the first floor of an office building on Peachtree Street, no matter what door you come in the first thing you see is open space. When you finally determine where the restaurant is and observe the close knit 14 table setup, La Pietra Cucina is an Italian trattoria worth checking out. With handmade pasta and an impressive wine list, this is a great place to take that special someone in your life. Simple but elegant black table cloths cover the round tables. I savored a taligatelle pasta with hedgehog mushrooms, squash and zucchini. That was about all that I could handle, after eating an entire basket of homemade breads. The meal was finished with a chocolate hazelnut gelato which could capture the attention of any non chocolate lover. Recently closed for renovations, wait until they reopen May 18th and enjoy classic Italian fare with even more user friendly space.
THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
SUBLIME DONUTS A warm welcome is written all over owner Kamal Grant’s face as you enter his donut haven Sublime Donuts. Located on 10th Street in Atlanta, Georgia Tech students and TBS employees are finally sharing their local find. An ambitious undertaking by the 28 year old former culinary student, donuts are his passion. Grant’s plentiful selection of filled, iced and glazed donuts could have your brain going into heavy decision mode at 7 in the morning. He takes pride in his perfected donut recipes and is generally behind the counter everyday greeting customers. With flavors changing daily, it’s the tangerine which reminds me of a creamsicle that strikes my fancy. Other options could include the spicy hot cross bun, chocolatey and marshmallowy smore and creamy dulce de leche. The donuts are not overwhelming sweet or as messy as other donut competitors. Accompany your donuts with a fresh cup of french pressed coffee or glass of milk. If your looking for a donut fix, we have finally found the perfect place.
REMEMBERING JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN As an alumni of Fisk University, I felt it more than appropriate to do a tribute to John Hope Franklin who recently passed at the age of 94. Franklin was a remarkable man. Historian, author, and teacher are only a few words that describe his many accomplishments. Franklin is the author of over 17 books including from Slavery to Freedom which the latest edition of this book features artwork from Aaron Douglas, a leading visual artist known for his work depicting African design and subject during the Harlem Renaissance. This particular work of art which was named Building More Stately Mansions is very familiar to me. While a student at Fisk, I remember prints of this art work being used for various marketing pieces for events. The original is also hung in Fisk Universities Art Gallery. Franklin a native of Oklahoma spent his formative years in a small town called Rentiesville. One of his childhood memories was reading to a blind man every Saturday afternoon, even though the man had a son. This would set the precedence of the character of such a man who would go on to do great things. After graduating from Fisk University in 1935, Franklin went on to receive two degrees from Harvard University. In 2005 Fisk University dedicated its library to John Hope and his wife Aurelia, renaming the facility The John Hope and Aurelia E. Franklin Library. The year 2005 was an amazing time for Franklin. He released his autobiography Mirror to America. This book was described as the information that Franklin could reconstruct from his life with as much validity as possible. While traveling to many destinations to speak of this autobiography, Franklin lectured that no matter what ones has done in their life, we all have a past and it should be recorded. Franklin remained an active Fiskite until his passing, including teaching at Fisk, being a member of the Board of Trustees and playing an instrumental role of bringing the first chapter of Phi Beta Sigma honor society to a Historically Black college. One thing Franklin has reinforced for me is to keep better records of my own family history. The later part of his life was spent in Durham North Carolina where he continued his writing. He preferred long hand as opposed to email and took breaks by visiting his greenhouse. A man of such excellence left a considerable size footprint in society. He will be truly missed.
THE WRITE TRACK Anniversary Edition 2009 Volume 3 Issue 2
A HISTORY LESSON Learning comes in all forms, striking stories can catch you when you least expect it. While attending my monthly NPU (neighborhood planning unit) meeting, a monthly meeting organized by City of Atlanta’s department of Planning, as I sat in the small plastics seats, the chairmen began the meeting with a story. This story was about a recent tour he had attended in a local cemetery, on Jonesboro road in Atlanta, South-View. My attention was captivated immediately. I recently had found out that this cemetery that I passed daily not only was of such distinction, but
was also the site where many of my loved ones were buried. Founded in 1886 by 9 former slaves on 35 acres of lush farmland who wanted a dignified placed for their loved ones to be buried. The cemetery has been maintained over the years for its historic preservation and its local family ties. In 2006 South-View celebrated its 120 year anniversary. Atlanta residents may be more familiar with Oakland Cemetery, a resting place for many well known Atlantans. This cemetery has a ongoing waiting list to purchase plots. The truth about Oakland Cemetery is for many years blacks could only be buried in a small section in the back of the cemetery. South-View was created to fulfill this need and now has the remains of over 70,000 blacks buried there. The parents of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are buried here and this was the original location where Dr. King Jr. was buried before he was moved to The King Center.