Author: GO BANG MAG

A Message of Hope and Unity from GO BANG! Magazine on MLK Day

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

From Pierre Andre’ Evans and the entire team at Go Bang! Magazine, we extend our warmest wishes for a meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Today, we remember the powerful legacy of Dr. King, a visionary whose unwavering commitment to justice and equality continues to inspire generations. His dream of a world where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character remains as relevant today as it was decades ago.

GO BANG! Magazine celebrates the rich tapestry of Black culture and strives to amplify voices that often go unheard. We believe in the power of art, music, and storytelling to bridge divides, foster understanding, and build a more inclusive society.

On this special day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of equality, justice, and love that Dr. King so eloquently championed. Let us strive to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background.

How will you be celebrating MLK Day?

Share your thoughts and reflections with us on social media using the hashtag #GoBangMLK


With love and respect, 

The GO BANG! Magazine Team

 

 

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG!

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM GO BANG! MAGAZINE

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Happy New Year to all our incredible readers!

As we flip the page on a brand new year, I, Pierre Andre’ Evans, publisher of Go Bang! Magazine, want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. Your passion for House music, DJs, art, fashion and dance ignites our own, and your readership fuels the very heart of what we do.

Every click, every share, every subscription means the world to us. It allows us to continue bringing you the most captivating stories, the most stunning visuals, and the most insightful commentary on the things we love.

This past year has been a remarkable journey, filled with “groundbreaking interviews,” “award-winning creatives,” and “launching a successful podcast” partnership. None of it would have been possible without your enthusiastic engagement.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are brimming with excitement for what the new year holds. We have some incredible content planned, including “exclusive interviews with rising stars,” “in-depth explorations of emerging trends,” and “a special 5th anniversary edition.”

But most importantly, we look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you. Your feedback, your ideas, and your continued support are invaluable to us.

So, let’s raise a glass to a year filled with creativity, inspiration, and unforgettable moments. May 2025 be a year of joy, growth, and boundless possibilities.

With heartfelt thanks,

Pierre Andre’ Evans

Publisher, Go Bang! Magazine

 

 

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG!

 

A Merry Christmas from GO BANG! Magazine

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Dearest Readers,

As the year draws to a close and the festive spirit fills the air, I, Pierre Andre Evans, Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine, want to extend our sincerest gratitude to each and every one of you.

Your unwavering support throughout the year has been the driving force behind our continued success. Your readership, your feedback, and your enthusiasm for the stories we tell have been an incredible source of inspiration for our entire team.

We are incredibly proud of the diverse voices and perspectives we’ve been able to share through the pages of GO BANG! Magazine. From thrilling adventures to thought-provoking articles, we strive to bring you content that entertains, informs, and inspires.

This Christmas season, we wish you and your loved ones joy, peace, and happiness. May your days be filled with laughter, warmth, and cherished moments.

Thank you again for your continued support. We look forward to sharing many more exciting stories with you in the New Year.

With warmest regards,

Pierre Andre Evans
Publisher, GO BANG! Magazine

Black Ensemble Theater announces new musical revue with “HITT RECORDS”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

 

Chicago, IL— Black Ensemble Theater’s Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor announces the world premiere musical revue as part of the 2024 Season of Affirmation: Protection – Hitt Records, written and directed by Black Ensemble Theater’s Producing Managing Director Daryl D. Brooks. Hitt Records, replacing the previously announced A Gamble on Huff: The Story of Gamble and Huff, runs December 21, 2024 – January 26, 2025, at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. 

Join James and Charles Hitt at their vintage record shop, Hitt Records, CDs and Tapes, as they school their nephew and customers on their vast knowledge of music. Together they show that music has no limits but there is nothing new under the sun. Featuring hits from Curtis Mayfield, Phil Collins, Alexander O’Neil, Shalamar, Sister Sledge, The Brothers Johnson, Bob Marley, and many more!

The cast of Hitt Records includes: Lyle Miller, Dennis Dent, Michael Lunder, Rhonda Preston, Qiana McNary, DeVaughn Loman, Dwight Neal, Trequon Tate, Jaitee Thomas, Britt Edwards and Destin Warner.

The creative team is Jackie Taylor (Executive Producer), Daryl D. Brooks (Writer/Director/Producing Managing Director), Robert Reddrick (Music Director), Christopher Chase Carter (Choreographer), Denise Karczewski (Set/Light Designer), Evelyn Danner (Costume Designer), Sean Alvarez (Sound Designer), DJ Douglass (Projection Designer), and Harrison Ornelas (Technical Director).

Under the music direction of Robert Reddrick, the band includes: Adam Sherrod (keys), Eric Troy (keys), Myron Cherry (drums), Oscar Brown, Jr. (bass/band leader), Charles “Chip” Dubose (guitar)
Dawon Washington (saxophone), Antwan Washington (trumpet), and Bill McFarland (trombone).

Tickets for Hitt Records are available at www.blackensemble.org, (773) 769-4451 and at the Black Ensemble Theater Box Office, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. Performances are Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $56.50-$66.50 (fees included). Valet parking is available for $13 (cash only).


Previews: December 21 at 8pm, December 22 at 3pm and December 28 at 8pm

Regular run: January 3-26, 2025
Fridays at 8pm
Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm
Sundays at 3pm

Location: Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street, Chicago
Valet parking is available for $13 (cash only).

Tickets: $56.50-$66.50 (fees included)

Box Office: The Box Office is located at 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago.
(773) 769-4451; http://www.blackensemble.org


Black Ensemble Theater
Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially, and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Four Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally, and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational, and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts and community engagement. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

Podcast: MEET DONALD CROSSLEY: A PIONEER OF THE HOUSE MUSIC MOVEMENT

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Podcast courtesy of Entrepreneurial Enclave

 

Donald Crossley is a name synonymous with the birth of house music. As one of the founders of the iconic Warehouse nightclub in Chicago, he played a pivotal role in shaping Chicago’s vibrant dance music scene and fostering the birth of House music and dance culture worldwide.

Donald Crossley, a visionary entrepreneur and cultural pioneer, was born in 1932, and raised in Chicago. Donald Crossley was a young man employed at Michael Reese hospital when he and some friends decided to join the Disco craze that was taking over America. They made frequent weekend trips to New York City to attend loft parties. One morning during breakfast, Donald’s mother suggested that instead of always traveling to New York, they should host parties in Chicago – and that marked the beginning of the social club US Studios. They hosted events around the city until they secured a permanent location at 555 W. Adams, which became the original US Studios/The Warehouse, a groundbreaking gay nightclub that provided a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community. This club became a hub for social gatherings and a breeding ground for new ideas and musical trends. After a few years, they relocated to South Federal Street with a new name, The Bowery.

Donald and the original US Studio members held parties at The Bowery until 1978, when they decided to explore different paths. Crossley transitioned to a career as a concierge at the Hyatt Regency Chicago and Hilton Chicago hotels, earning recognition as Employee of the Year for his work as a concierge at the Renaissance Hotel at O’Hare. In 2019, Donald retired from the Hyatt Centric Hotel and is now enjoying life.

Crossley’s foresight and dedication to fostering a vibrant music community solidified his legacy as a key figure in the development of the House music genre. Crossley’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to creating inclusive spaces for marginalized communities had a profound impact on Chicago’s cultural landscape. His legacy as a pioneer of House music and a champion of diversity continues to resonate, shaping the global dance music scene to this day.

 
Take a listen as I, along with Kevin Wortham of Entrepreneurial Enclave, team up again and have a very insightful and entertaining conversation with the living legend…… one of the OGs of House….Mr. Donald Crossley

THIS IS HIS TRUTH!!!

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@theentrepreneurialenclave6392

 

 

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG!

 

 

 

 

COVER: Podcast interview of DJ WAYNE WILLIAMS, Founder of The Chosen Few DJs

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Used by permission: Entrepreneurial Enclave

SUBSCRIBE



The interview with DJ Wayne Williams, founder of the renowned Chosen Few Djs House Music Festival, the longest-running house music festival worldwide, was captivating, leading to its early release on this page. Our in-depth conversation explores house music extensively. This was our first joint effort. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed recording it. Entrepreneurial Enclave Podcast Hosted by Kevin Wortham Co-Hosted by Pierre Andre-Evans of GO BANG! Magazine Step into the rhythm of innovation and creativity as we bring you conversations that move the soul. This season, we’re spinning unforgettable stories with iconic house music producers, legendary DJs, and trailblazing influencers who’ve shaped the culture and taken it to new heights. From underground clubs to global stages, we uncover the journeys, hustle, and passion that transformed beats into movements and dreams into reality. Tune in, vibe out, and let the sound of success inspire your entrepreneurial grind! Follow us and subscribe for free!

 

 

From Our Chicago Kitchen to Yours: A Heartfelt Thanksgiving from GO BANG! Magazine

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Hey, Go Bang Fam!

The crisp autumn air is blowing through the streets of Chicago, and with it comes the warm glow of Thanksgiving! It’s a time for family, for feasting (let’s be real, mostly feasting!), and for reflecting on all the things we’re grateful for.

And at the top of that list, we have YOU.

The readers, the commenters, the social media warriors who share our stories – you’re the ones who make GO BANG! Magazine the vibrant, exciting platform it is. You fuel our creative fire, inspire our next big interviews, and remind us why we love bringing you the hottest entertainment news and features in the city that never sleeps (well, rarely sleeps!).

This Thanksgiving, as that glorious turkey roasts in the oven and the sweet aroma of sweet potato pie fills your kitchen, we want you to take a moment to savor not just the delicious food, but the incredible people in your life. Whether it’s your family, your chosen family, or even that quirky next-door neighbor who always lends a cup of sugar, take a moment to express your gratitude.

**From all of us here at GO BANG! Magazine, we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with laughter, love, and enough gravy to go around. **

P.S. Don’t forget to share those epic Thanksgiving dinner photos with us on social media using #GoBangThanks! We might just feature your culinary masterpiece (or your adorable pet napping under the table) in our next issue!

Happy Thanksgiving!

With warmth wishes,

The GO BANG! Magazine Team

COVER: PODCAST Interview of Go Bang Magazine’s Pierre Andre’Evans – Go Big or GO BANG!

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

YouTube video courtesy of: The Entrepreneurial Enclave
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@theentrepreneurialenclave6392



Please check out this interview by Kevin Wortham for his YouTube podcast ENTREPRENEURIAL ENCLAVE.
LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R1gScFcPz4

I am honor to be interviewed, each and every time I am approached and a request is made. THANK YOU!!!!


BIO
Publisher, Journalist, Author, DJ, Dancer Pierre Andre’ Evans has taken the publishing, literary and entertainment industries by storm. As a former writer/journalist for the iconic Soul Train brand, the historic Chicago Defender newspaper, and the ground-breaking N’Digo Magapaper, Evans has earned the right to emerge as the owner and publisher of his own innovative publication, GO BANG! Magazine.

GO BANG! Magazine, https://gobangmagazine.com/, founded in April 2020 during the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, is written, edited, and published by Pierre Andre’ Evans. It is internationally known as the “go to” informational, educational and entertainment resource, providing readers with in-depth reporting on ground-breaking people, places, and events, which are having positive impacts on the world. A recent magazine highlight was interviewing Grammy nominated DJ/Producer Terry Hunter and discussing his most recent project, being curated by Beyoncé’s team to do an official House remix of her latest hit single “Break My Soul”, to be included on her latest album Renaissance.

A proud, active member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and its’ Chicago chapter (NABJCC), Evans is a sought-after freelance writer who contributes entertainment, music, theater, film, art, culture, fashion, dance, and current event write-ups to countless prominent publications throughout the world. One of his most momentous interviews was with Eric Monte, the creator of such significant television shows as Good Times, The Jefferson’s, What’s Happening, and the coming-of-age comedy-drama movie Cooley High.

As an entertainer, Pierre is a former actor/model, appearing in various roles in five of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, including Home Alone II, Richie Rich, The Negotiator, Never Been Kissed and Road to Perdition. Then, as a model, he has also graced fashion runways wearing the accoutrements of various fashion designers and has been the subject of numerous photo shoots.

As a DJ, under his company Pinnacle Entertainment Productions, DJ Playerre, as he is known in the House music community, has the stellar reputation as the DJ that “gets you up and leaves you dead on the dancefloor!” That is one helluva calling card. He is also known as the one and only Andre’ Pierre “The Dancing Machine,” a prolific hired club dancer that is known to motivate, inspire and promote joyful dancing at venues and events. It’s often said, “If Andre’ Pierre is at your party, you know it’s going on!”

Pierre Andre’ Evans the brand, embodies quality, integrity, dependability, and creativity. When you partake in the world of Pierre Andre’ Evans, whether it is a speaking engagement, book signing, special event, an entertainment piece, or literary media, you can expect an unparalleled level of gratification and pure bliss, that only Pierre Andre’ Evans can provide.

Contact Pierre
======================
GO BANG! Magazine – https://gobangmagazine.com/



Please check out this interview by Kevin Wortham for his YouTube podcast ENTREPRENEURIAL ENCLAVE.
LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R1gScFcPz4

 

COVER: “Body: House Dance Summit 2024” – (August 29 · 5pm – August 30 · 10:30pm)

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photo courtesy of: https://www.facebook.com/jordonez1234

Tickets $27 – $100: 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/body-house-dance-summit-2024-tickets-934277367757?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

4:00 PM – 8:45 PM

August 29th: Workshops @ Steadfast Dance Center

Date: Thursday, August 29th Time: 4PM – 8:45 PM Location: Steadfast Dance Center, 1860 S. Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL Instructors & Class Schedule: 4:00PM Jay-J(Jus.be) , 5:11PM Trish (Devine Instant), 6:22PM Brand1 (Circle Theory) , 7:22 Tre Daniels w/ special guest (Jus.be)


10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

August 29th: Pre Party @ Penny Whistle Tavern

Date: Thursday, August 29th Time: 10 PM – 2 AM Location: Penny Whistle Tavern, next door to Steadfast Dance Center Featuring DJs from Tribecago & Body: House Dance Summit
5:00 PM – 10:30 PM

August 30th: Body: House Dance Summit @ Healthy Hood Chicago


House Dance Competition Date: Friday, August 30th Time: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM Location: Healthy Hood Chicago, 2242 S. Damen Ave, Chicago, IL

Tickets $27 – $100 :

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/body-house-dance-summit-2024-tickets-934277367757?aff=ebdsoporgprofile


About this event


Join us at BODY: House Dance Summit for an exhilarating celebration of House dance and culture in the vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen, Chicago! This two-day event features dance classes, workshops, competitions, and a lively pre-party, bringing together some of the best talents in the house dance community.

Dive into the world of house dance with expert-led workshops covering various techniques and styles. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, these sessions are designed to inspire and elevate your skills.

Workshops will be held Thursday, August 29th at Steadfast Dance Center located at 1860 S. Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL from 4PM – 8:45 PM and will be taught by 2 of our the 5 judges with a specal workshop by Tre Daniels.

After the workshops, join us next door and dance the night away at Penny Whistle Tavern located at 1854 S. Blue Island with beats from some of the best DJs in the House music scene Featuring DJs from Tribecago & Body: House Dance Summit from 10 PM – 2 AM!

Friday, August 30th, at Healthy Hood Chicago, 2242 S. Damen Ave, Chicago, IL witness the excitement of our 4th installment of Body! A House dance competition, where dancers have the space to showcase their skills, personality and creativity for a chance to come back next year and sit at the judges seat. This year’s competition features a five-judge panel, blending tenured experts and fresh faces with the common goal and dedication to help keeping House dance & culture alive and thriving.

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of House dance, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Chicago’s dance scene. Secure your spot now and be part of an unforgettable experience!

As part of your ticket purchase, please be aware that you are agreeing to the terms outlined in our Media Release Form and Hold Harmless Agreement. This agreement includes the following key points:


1. Media Release Form:


By attending the event, you grant Jus.Be House Collective, Steadfast Dance Center, and Healthy Hood Chicago permission to use photographs, video recordings, and/or audio recordings of you for promotional, educational, and advertising purposes. This media may be used in various formats including print, online, and broadcast media.
2. Hold Harmless Agreement:

You acknowledge the inherent risks associated with participation in the event and agree to release and hold harmless Jus.Be House Collective, Steadfast Dance Center, Healthy Hood Chicago, and their affiliates from any claims or damages arising from your participation. This includes any claims for personal injury or property damage. You also consent to emergency medical treatment if necessary and agree to comply with all event rules and regulations.
By purchasing your ticket, you are consenting to these terms and agreeing to comply with the conditions stated in the Media Release Form and Hold Harmless Agreement.

For your reference, here are the detailed terms of the Media Release Form and Hold Harmless Agreement:


Body House Dance Summit Media Release and Hold Harmless Agreement


1. Media Release Form

Consent for Use of Media: You grant permission to Jus.Be House Collective, Steadfast Dance Center, and Healthy Hood Chicago to use photographs, video recordings, and/or audio recordings of you for promotional and other purposes. You will not receive compensation and understand that these materials may be used in perpetuity.

Release and Waiver: You release and hold harmless the organizations from any claims arising out of the use of these media materials.

2. Hold Harmless Agreement

Assumption of Risk: You acknowledge and assume all risks associated with participating in the event.

Release and Indemnification: You release, waive, and discharge the organizations from any claims related to your participation and agree to indemnify them against any claims arising from your own actions.

Medical Consent: You authorize the organizations to seek emergency medical treatment if needed and agree to cover all associated costs.

Compliance with Rules: You agree to follow all event rules and understand that failure to do so may result in removal from the event.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at JusBeHouse@gmail.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the Body House Dance Summit!

Best regards,

Thomas Canty & Jordan Ordonez – Guimaraes

Jus.Be House Collective

JusBeHouse@gmail.com

Tickets $27 – $100 :

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/body-house-dance-summit-2024-tickets-934277367757?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

 

Cover: BILLY RAY VALENTINE PRESENTS “UNITED NATIONS” FILM DEBUT

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photos courtesy of Singles Films and Music Entertainment

STREAMS EVERYWHERE ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2024

In the past 5 years, writer, director, and producer Billy Ray Valentine has entertained us with his visions. With streaming phenomenons such as “LIL CEASAR“, “ROSELAND“, “MAGIC“, “THE WALK OF RUFUS 1&2“, and “A MASQUERADE TRAPP“, Mr. Valentine now brings to the forefront a compelling riveting story about survival and the streets of Chicago’s nightlife. He brings us the tale of a young man, by the name of Kahmil, who leads a gang from the streets of Gary, Indiana. They’re on a journey of life and death, trying to escape the streets of Chicago to make it back home to Indiana.


“UNITED NATIONS” gives you a wrong look into life in the streets of Chicago’s gang activity. These young men race against time and survival, in an effort to make it back home. The film also gives you a look at the powerful impact of all gangs coming together, unifying as one for peace, for the sake of righteousness and justice, for those that have been targeted unjustly by the justice system, and murdered by those who are here to “serve and protect.”

When asked why this film was so important to Billy, he stated, “I wanted to show what WE could be as a whole, on a positive note. I also wanted to point out and expose the injustices in America to African-American and minorities in this country. UNITED NATIONS is a film based on a reality that once was and is no longer. So, I decided to create something that would reach out to you and show familiarity with life in the streets of urban cities across America.“

“Slated to be released this month, “UNITED NATIONS” will definitely have you biting your nails and gripping the edge of your seat. It is a film with true passion and severe reality.” – Pierre Andre’ Evans – Publisher/GO BANG! Magazine

Billy Ray Valentine was born in Chicago, brought up in the Englewood community, and has actually survived that harsh reality of games, drugs and unjust crimes against his Black America. The film stars David Penn (RIP), Julian T. Allen, and Max Julian. Billy Ray goes on to explain why this film was so important for him to finish, “…because there were so many obstacles and adversity to overcome while shooting the film. In addition to that, two more cast members sadly lost their lives while shooting the movie, due to senseless gun violence, Yaeyo Royae’l (RIP) & Nsg Bosschav (RIP).“

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upcoming projects from Singles Film and Music Entertainment are scheduled for release early and mid next year. Be on the lookout for these exciting projects written, produced, and directed by the multi-talented Billy Ray Valentine.

 

STREAMS EVERYWHERE ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2024

Follow Billy Ray Valentine/Singles Film and Music Entertainment on ALL social media 

 

 

NEVER MISS A HIT!!!

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