Author: GO BANG MAG

THEATRE: Gregory Stewart in “Just One of Those Things (And More): The Nat King Cole Story”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Chicago, IL – Stewart Music Emporium presents performer Gregory Stewart, 2023 Jeff Award nominee (Reasons: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire) in a limited run of his tribute Just One of Those Things (And More): The Nat King Cole Story, December 8, 2023 – January 7, 2024, at Venus Cabaret Theater, 3745 N Southport Ave. The opening is December 9, 2023 at 7:00pm.

Tickets, $60-$70, are on sale at MercuryTheaterChicago.com. Performances are December 8-9 at 7pm, December 10 at 3pm, December 21-23 at 7pm, January 5-6 at 7pm and January 7 at 2:30pm.

In Gregory Stewart’s production, he reveals the perseverance and tenacity of a musical legend who made an indelible mark on the music industry during the height of racial and social unrest. Stewart will perform all of Cole’s best-known melodies, including the favorites “Unforgettable”, “When I Fall In Love”, and “The Christmas Song”, among others.

Music heals the soul, and Nat King Cole bridged the racial line by leading with love. Just One of Those Things (And More): The Nat King Cole Story, is about a remarkable human being and trailblazer. His catchphrase, “Just one of those things,” reflected his attitude toward the world during his time.

Stewart will be joined by musicians Will Oats (piano), William O. Whitehead III (drums), and Isaiah Horne (bass). The creative team includes Janine Stroemer (director), Ameer Roberts (creative direction and set design), Janine Stroemer and Aundria TraNay (writers) and Jessica Taylor (hair and make-up).

Gregory Stewart comments, “If it weren’t for Nat King Cole, there wouldn’t be a lot of entertainers that we love so much performing today. Nat became the first of many historical moments. He was the first African American to be a host on national television. He was the first African American to have a residency in Vegas. He was the only African American man to build and be the face of Capitol Records. The music industry would not be as powerful as it is today if it were not for Nat King Cole’s contribution and his fight for equal opportunities for everyone. Nat was faced with endless obstacles, and he still rose to the top. I am honored and proud to pay tribute to an icon that deserves more recognition than what he is getting.”

Gregory Stewart, Jr., became a music enthusiast at an early age. As a child prodigy on the Southside of Chicago, Gregory was shaped by diverse types of musical genres that helped establish his career in the entertainment industry. In 2018, Gregory’s talent brought him to live abroad in Osaka, Japan where he completed a two-year foreign entertainment contract with Universal Studios. While in Japan, Gregory produced multiple independent musical performances featured in nightclubs, entertainment venues and events.

After returning to Chicago, Gregory established his roots as a professional entertainer throughout Chicagoland, including as one of the lead singers of the popular band Maggie Speaks. Gregory was nominated for a Jeff Award for the role of Philip Bailey in Reasons: A Tribute to Earth Wind & Fire at Black Ensemble Theater. Gregory performs as a cross-cultural entertainer, paying tribute on stage with renditions of historical artists that have made indelible marks in the music industry. He produces his own productions under Stewart Music Emporium and will release his debut album, “Back in Love,” in early 2024.

Event: ENVISIONING BGT & ONE STOP: PROSTATE/BREAST CANCER MELEE 2

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

All photos courtesy of Facebook.com

Advance ticket purchase encouraged.
TICKETS TO THE EVENT CAN BE PURCHASED HERE

Please join us on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from 6pm – 10pm

@THE HAVEN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER – 932 W. 43rd Street

 

OUR SUCCESS STORY

Since 2016, Barbara Giles’ commitment to bring outreach and awareness in the fight against cancer has been a source of educational tenure in the fight against cancer for both men and women. Bringing both the support in information and communication, to keep the families of the hardest hit victims aware of alternative treatments, care and foods to help booster their fight.

Barbara Giles



We have major media support by GO BANG! Magazine, Ray Neal Media and other news outlets. Also Master Gardener Gregory Bratton of I-Grow Chicago (SURVIVOR), and other supporters like the Field Museum of Natural History, NBWSC, Chicago Zoological Society, Oriental Trading Co., Chicago White Sox, Actor Harry Lennix (Blacklist), and Pete Kadis (One Stop} and our Email Blasts to over 67,000.

Envisioning BGT & Ray Neal Media reach’s upwards to 6,000 people via social media, Blog; Facebook, platforms of high visibility among key audiences.

 

Andre “Music Man” Williams

KB Evans

Terry Bishop

 


Featured guest are actor (SECRET), MC Terry Bishop of WVON, Singer/Songwriter/Model/Actress KB Evans, and Singer Andre Williams Music Man & Ecstasy will be singing songs off of his new album “Penetration” as well as performing his hit new single “Shake it, Shake it.”

Andre “Music Man” Williams video “Shake It Shake It”



Advance ticket purchase encouraged.
TICKETS TO THE EVENT CAN BE PURCHASED HERE


OUR MISSION:
Today most people have been touched indirectly or directly by prostate or breast cancer in one way or another. Envisioning BGT, with association of ONE STOP FOODS, wish to not only raise hopes, but the spirits of all involved in our goal of raising cancer education through early detection, by diagnosing, having medical resources available, giving preventive healthy food alternatives and education. This helps to increase the sense of urgency of early testing for both men and women dealing with prostate and breast cancer.

PARKING & REFUND POLICY:
There is sufficient street parking.
Refunds are given if the event is cancelled with no further date.
Refund will be within 4-6 weeks.

It is wheelchair accessible.
No children allowed.
Food can be purchased with tickets and ticket purchase is encouraged early. Food is available for purchase.
Alcohol is available at bar.
No drinking outside of club area.



Advance ticket purchase encouraged.
TICKETS TO THE EVENT CAN BE PURCHASED HERE

 

LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

 

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

COVER STORY: HOUSE COMMUNITY UNITE AROUND CRAIG LOFTIS TO SAVE “THE LODGE” NIGHTCLUB

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photos courtesy of Facebook.com

CLICK HERE TO DONATE
#25ToStayAlive

One of our own…Chicago’s own…House’s own…Craig Loftis, pioneering DJ, music producer, club owner and one of Frankie Knuckles’ proteges, needs our help. His club, “The Lodge”, one of Chicago’s only southside clubs dedicated to House music, culture and the community, was recently closed by the City of Chicago due to minor licensing violations and structural issues.

He has set up a GO FUND ME account asking the community to help save The Lodge. CLICK HERE

For those that may not be familiar, Craig Loftis has been a DJ in the Chicago music scene since 1979. He realized that music was his true gift from God and he decided to take it further. He attended Columbia College Chicago, where he received a degree in Arts and Entertainment Management and Sound Engineering. In the early years, he redesigned the sound system for Frankie Knuckles’ legendary “Power Plant” and became Knuckles’ personal sound engineer, opening DJ and General Manager for the next four years. In 2000, Loftis started a new promotion company, Loftwerk Productions, working with Loleatta Holloway, Ava Cherry, Sharon Pass, Darryl Pandy, Byron Stingley, Rochelle Flemming, Georgy Porgy and Martha Wash, to name a few.

Craig says, “The Lodge is in need of your help and support. The Lodge is located at 5108 S. Prairie Avenue in Chicago. It’s a Black-owned-and-operated private dance club. The Lodge is a place that welcomes all regardless of race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It’s also a great place to hear HOUSE MUSIC in the city that it was born in… CHICAGO! 

The Lodge


Just recently, the global House community united to save the historic building in Chicago that housed Frankie Knuckles’ “The Warehouse”, which resulted in getting it designated as a national historic landmark. Let’s come together again to save The Lodge, a possible future national historic landmark!!!

GO BANG! Magazine is asking all lovers and supporters of House music and the House culture across the world, to unite and save a historic and important structure in the legacy of House, The Lodge!

Please dig deep and donate whatever you can.  We have a goal of reaching $50,000.


CLICK HERE TO DONATE
#25ToStayAlive

At the time of this writing, The Lodge’s GO FUND ME has reached a little over $2300

 

CLICK HERE FOR FREE MEMBERSHIP TO THE LODGE

Loftwerk Production is the name of the production company that hosts and manages the The Lodge guest memberships events @ The Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43 5108 S. Prairie ,Chicago Il. 60615. The sole purpose of the group is to promote and preserve the rich legacy of Chicago House Music . All like minded individuals are welcome to join. Being a member of Loftwerk Productions (THE LODGE) in no way makes you a member of Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43 . What it does do, is allows you to enter the event hall as a guest of Craig Loftis, member of Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43. THE LODGE IS NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.. you must be invited by a member of Great Lakes or a guest member of THE LODGE.

Lastly, Craig requests, “To everyone who has donated and that plan to donate, please send me a SHORT VIDEO SNIPPET of what “The Lodge” means to you. Please end it with ‘25 to stay alive’…Support The Lodge.’ You can drop it in my inbox or email it to cl60643@aol.com . Thank you!”

#25ToStayAlive

1Love1House

LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

 

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Music: NIGERIAN JESSE KING BUGA – A Contemporary, Urban High-Life and Afro Jazz Singer & Producer

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photos courtesy of Jesse King Buga

 

Popularly known as JESSE KING BUGA, a Contemporary, Urban High-Life and Afro Jazz singer, was born in the 1970’s to the family of Pastor and Mrs. Omokagbor, originally from Okpella in Edo State. He grew up in Lagos and attended The Boys Academy (Lagos Island), Ikeja Grammar school and Badagry high school. After graduating, he proceeded to the Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti.

Jesse began his early life growing up in Lagos in a Mission House. He started his music career in church and was able to organize many events while attending the university. He started his journey into music as a pianist/producer, before delving fully into music professionally. Most of his tracks are self-produced and he released his debut album “Buga” in 2006, within a year of going fully professional. It has inspired a lot of youths within his community. It has also made him an authentic brand leading the way in campaigning for unity and peaceful coexistence, heritage, and upholding the positive values entrenched in our tradition.

Popularly now known and referred to as “Buga”, he is easily recognized by his traditional style of dressing, infused with modern day styling to promote and encourage the younger generation to embrace African dressing and fabrics. His signature hat, with the long tail used by the Yoruba hunters, looks like a Santa Claus hat, makes this all interesting. The hat has recently taken up the new name “buga”, named after Jesse King Buga.


One of his popular tracks, “Mummy” remains the preferred choice of song to celebrate women on Mother’s Day, birthdays and at traditional weddings of the Yoruba speaking tribe, both home and abroad. One of his signature productions amongst many is the music, dance and drama concert titled “Eko Benin Connexion.” Jesse King doubled as a producer and director of this production and to date, still remains one of his greatest and biggest productions. This concert depicts a kind of cultural rebirth using education as the tool to rekindle and unite the cultural ties between the Benin Kingdom and the Eko (Lagos) of today. As a curator of the idea which is born out of the unpleasant nature of events stemming from tribal wars and hatred, the intent behind this not-so-common type of concert is simply to bring back the memories of where humans evolved from so that we don’t miss the big picture of our being connected and having the same source. It is simply a wake-up call for people to reconnect with their roots and stay in peaceful co-existence.

Jesse is a certified music producer/director, member of COSON Nigeria, and uses music to promote his undying passion for the African culture and tourism. His aim is to use music as a medium through which he expresses his heart and connects to the world. Buga, as fondly called by many, is an enigmatic artiste with a bag full of thinking hats; a producer, energetic stage performer, creative director, voice trainer, voice over extraordinaire, set designer, arranger and pianist.

In one of his recent award nominations in the United States of America, he was acknowledged and appreciated for his tireless contribution towards the advocacy and promotion of positive African values which typify love and unity. Sometimes addressed as “Oba”, which means King in Yoruba language, Jesse exudes a unique charming character which he compliments with his signature smile and effortless royalty portrait. Jesse says, “I wish the world can come together and sing one sound, song of love and peace, not religion, not tribe, that is my dream.”

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Where were you raised and what was it like growing up as a child? Do you have any special childhood memories that you can share with our readers?

Jesse King Buga: I was born into a clergy family, Pastor and Mrs. Omokhagbor. I’m from Okpella, Edo State of Nigeria. My early days in Lagos can’t be ignored. It was a fantastic experience and a great influence of Lagos culture.

As a church choir boy, I discovered my talent at a very young age, listening to my church organist playing beautiful hymns. Being part of the church choir, I was able to learn the rudiments of music. The church prepared me by teaching me the fundamentals of music through singing symphonies and hymns, which laid the groundwork for my music career.


GO BANG! MAGAZINE: At what age did you first get interested in music and how were you introduced to it?

Jesse King Buga: I got interested in music as at the age of five. It’s always interesting and soulful for me, listening to beautiful music. I decided I was going to do music, but as a small child, it was just hope then, but now it’s reality.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Please describe to us the moment when you knew that you wanted to pursue music professionally?

Jesse King Buga: My vision was totally cleared in my University days. I was a member of a performing theatre group. Our performances on stage and me singing was always amazing with warm applause from the audience. It was then I realized my strength and choice of career today.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: How would you describe your style of music and what message are you trying to convey through your music?

Jesse King Buga: I call my music Urban High Life, African-Metro Jazz, basically Afrocentric. My music is unique and I incorporate traditional African drums with a focus on embracing my African heritage. I am advocate for women, charity for the less fortunate and I thrive to support and to bring life to those who are depressed.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Who are some of the people that you admire or that motivate you, and why?

Jesse King Buga: A lot of great artists have inspired me in my career. Victor Olaiya, Bobby Benson, Rex Lawson, Victor Uwaifo and many others, to mention a few.


GO BANG! MAGAZINE: You are very influential in your homeland of Africa, but some here in America may not be familiar with you. How would you describe yourself to the rest of the world and what can they expect from you and your music?

Jesse King Buga: I’m a custodian of culture and history, preacher of love, and a unifier promoting cultures without boundaries. I’m leading a movement to reduce poverty through my art.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: You are not only known for your music, but you are also quite popular for your style of dressing. It’s traditional, but infused with modern styling. Have you always been a fashionable dresser? How would you describe your style and what influences your style of dress?

Jesse King Buga: I use my style of dressing to promote my culture and to communicate to the world my heritage and values. At the same time, I’m open and respect other cultures. It’s rebranding era. I noticed I needed to do some touches to my dress style to make it flexible to run through our new generation. Rebranding is key in every business.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: One of your most popular songs “Mummy” has become quite popular because it celebrates women. Can you please describe to our readers what inspired you to write this song?

Jesse King Buga: Women in Africa have faced social and employment discrimination, poverty and inequality. This has hurt them so much and is the reason why I decided to write a song in celebrating women in Africa titled “Mummy.” It has been so well-received, up to this day.

Mummy – Jesse King And The Queens In The Palace



I get inspired writing my songs with situations, my environment and everyday people.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: You’ve produced several albums from 2006 to the present. You’ve performed at numerous festivals throughout Africa and have received awards, recognitions and nominations in Africa, as well as in the United States. Is there anything that you haven’t done that you would love to do?

Jesse King Buga: Yes! I would love to perform in the US festivals. I hope someday my dream will come to past. It’s going to be a great privilege to reach out to my old fans and the new ones.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: What would you like to be remembered for and what would you like your legacy to be?

Jesse King Buga: A unifier, promoting culture without boundaries and Spreading love across the globe.

GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Well Jesse King Buga, you have been officially BANGED!


Productions

1. Buga – Album released 2006

2. Mr Jeje – Album Released 2008

3. Gbatiketike – Single Released 2011

4. Rooted – Album Released 2012

5. Eko Benin Connexion- Music, Dance and Drama Concert, 2013

6. My Money feat. Jaywon – Single Released 2014

7. Baba All the way – Released 2020

8. The Rebirth Medley – Released April, 2022

9. Ijebu – Single – Released Sep, 2022

10. Holy Water Dec, 2022

11. Gbabenson –ft Adewale Ayuba (soon to be released)



Live Cultural Festival Performances

1. Osun Osogbo Festival, Osogbo, Osun State

2. Badagry Coconut Festival, Badagry, Lagos State

3. Mare Festival, Idanre, Ondo State

4. Ogidi Festival, Kogi State

5. Adire Festival, Lagos State

6. Black Heritage Festival, Badagry

7. Lagos State Music Fiesta



Awards, Recognitions and Nominations:

1. Amen Awards Nigeria

2. Nigeria Entertainment Awards, New York, U.S.A.

3. African Heritage Awards, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A

4. Cultural ambassadors Award Nigeria

5. Omo Yoruba cultural Awards

6. Iroko Awards

You can take a listen to all of Jesse King Buga’s music and productions on Youtube, social media and streaming platforms.

 

LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

 

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

COVER STORY: SOUL TRAIN DANCERS MEET “BRANDY’S DISCO BALL!!!”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ISAIAH JAMAL EVANS / CALI VISUALS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED OTHERWISE – @IsaiahJamalEvans @CaliVisuals

 

 

On Sunday, August 13, 2023, Chicago native and former Soul Train Dancer Brandy Sanders brought her fabulously fun “Disco Ball” to the town where the dance began, CHICAGO! It was held at the posh South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. Shore Dr., from 4pm – 11pm. In the words of the late great Don Cornelius,, “You can bet that it was a stone cold gas!”

SOUTH SHORE CULTURAL CENTER

Since 2008, “Brandy’s Disco Ball” has celebrated the culture and the spirit of the 70s Disco era through music and fashion. So, this event paid tribute to the legendary entertainers of the era. Each year, the Los Angeles legendary Soul Train Dancers are the honorary guests. But this year, Brandy honored and recognize the original Soul Train Dancers from Chicago, along with many other Chicago born entertainers and celebrities.

Maurice Christian (center) and 2 other members of “The Puppets” receiving their honoree certificates.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WORLD FAMOUS SOUL TRAIN LINE

 

 

 




 

 

It was a night of fun and an exciting evening of live entertainment, “Best Dressed” Contests, Dance Contests, Games, Raffles, Vendors, the Soul Train Scramble Board and of course, The World Famous “Soul Train Line!!”

Remj

Special featured musical guest performers were Remj (a Michael Jackson Tribute Entertainer)

 

Nu Skool Sings Old School star Mesiyah and Gospel Soul Recording Artist “Lady Leah.” Special celebrity guest and Chicago born actress Cynda Willliams, from “Mo’ Better Blues” and Oprah Winfrey’s “The Wedding” was also in attendance, donning her funky and fabulous 70’s outfit. While the distinguished special guest was the SEIU African American Caucus.

CYNDA WILLIAMS & OTHER DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

CYNDA WILLIAMS & PIERRE ANDRE’ EVANS – GO BANG! MAGAZINE FOUNDER

One of the highlights of the event was Brandy’s award presentation to the honorees, which included Chicago original Soul Train Dancers Mable Buckner, Albert Adams, The Puppets (Maurice Christian, Anthony Fairchild, Melvin Shumpert, Willie Fultz, Carlton Knight, Yolanda Cooper, Wayne Ward and the late David Crockett), Captain Sky, Poppin Chuck, Robin Roberts Mister, the late Diane Roberts Mister and Stefon Patterson.

 

POPPIN CHUCK & PIERRE ANDRE’ EVANS – GO BANG! MAGAZINE FOUNDER 

POPPIN CHUCK

ORIGINAL SOUL TRAIN DANCER ALBERT ADAMS AND HIS ORIGINAL DANCE PARTNER MABLE BUCKNER

Albert Adams performed a fantastic dance routine and The Puppets put on a spectacular dance performance as well.

THE PUPPETS & DARRELL ROBERTS

 

Photo courtesy of Darrell Roberts

Also honored were Chicago’s legendary entertainers, including Blues Singer/Songwriter Deitra Farr, entertainment veteran Lee “Mr. Lee” Kirsky, musical group, The Notations (Clifford Curry, Eric Rapier Bryant, Marzette Griffith) and lastly, the Jazz & Blues artist Legendary HolleThee Maxwell, who spoke about her time with Ike Turner and wanted to dispel the talk about Ike being a monster. She stated that he wasn’t like that with her. She also promoted her memoir book titled, “Freebase Ain’t Free.” The book describes Maxwell’s wild ride as Turner’s friend, trusted associate, and closest ally.We cannot forget to mention the special tribute to Chicago House music pioneer, the late Ron Hardy and Chicago Original Soul Train Dancer Adolfo “Shabba Doo” Quinones. The tributes ended with a special dedication to Soul Train Founder, Producer & Host Don Cornelius and Chicago Soul Train Host Clinton Ghent.

THE NOTATIONS



This event not only celebrated the Chicago Soul Train dancers, but it also celebrated 50 Years of Hip Hop with a special presentation by Chicago Hip Hop Historian Darrell “Artistic” Roberts of the Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum, located in Chicago at 4505 S. Indiana Avenue, 773.414.2006. We got a chance to briefly speak with “Artistic” and he is just an incredible individual filled with great spirit, personality and knowledge.

Once the presentations and performances were over, the lights were dimmed, the music was pumped and the world famous Soul Train Line was formed. Everyone in attendance jumped out of their seats and hit the dance floor. From young teenagers to seasoned seniors, they all showed off their moves while going down the Soul Train line. This lasted for hours, as the line grew longer and longer. Then, the line broke up and all of the dancers just took to the floor and jammed, packing it from wall to wall.

DARRELL ROBERTS – CHICAGO’S HIP HOP HERITAGE MUSEUM CURATOR/DOCENT/HISTORIAN

 

 


Photos courtesy of Darrell Roberts

 

Brandy Sanders says “It’s always been my dream to bring my show from LA back to Chicago. It’s going to be a full circle moment for me. Grab your bell bottoms, your platform shoes, your miniskirts and your go-go boots. It’s Gonna Be A Ball Y’all!!!”

THE PUPPETS & BRANDY SANDERS

 

Brandy promised this to be one of the most epic and historical events to ever hit Chicago….and IT WAS!!!

We leave you with the famous words of the late Don Cornelius, LOVE, PEACE & SOULLLLLLL!!!

Brandy’s Disco Ball 2022

Video courtesy of Brandy Sanders @ https://www.youtube.com/@nuskoololdschool

BRANDY SANDERS

 

Photo courtesy of Brandy Sanders/Facebook

Special shout out and thanks to Desirae L. Benson, my publicist and PR EXTRORDINAIRE   DesiraeBBB@gmail.com

 
 

Please follow photographer Isaiah Jamal Evans and Cali Visuals:

IG @_calivisuals

FB @Cali Visuals / @Isaiah Jamal Evans

LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

 

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.





Arts & Culture / Film: CHEF MICHAEL DANIELS

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photos courtesy of Chef Michael Daniels

Chef Michael Daniels, founder of MD Creative Blends, grew up eating exotic foods including pheasant, quail, red snapper, orange roughy, mahi mahi and even octopus. “As a child, I would rush home every day to see what my mother had cooked for supper. This caused me to realize that food made people happy and brought them closer at a young age.” Chef Daniels continued, “From entrepreneurs closing a monumental deal to joyous proposals, food has always been an avenue of conversation and togetherness. I’ve always loved the hustle and bustle of a restaurant atmosphere and ambiance.”

Chef Daniels studied theatre and film at Ohio State University. He started his journey in culinary arts when he was about thirteen years old, working in downtown Mansfield at a restaurant called the Bendarya Inn as a pitiful dishwasher. His culinary career excelled from that point on working under many awesome chefs.

He left Ohio State and his cousin, who was a hair stylist in the film industry, hooked him up with celebrities like Morgan Freeman and Danny Glover, just to name a few. He soon left for California, leaving his wife and young kids behind. He was hoping to gain work in the film industry. Four days after arriving in California, he found himself on the set of “Lovecraft” (To Cast a Deadly Spell) Director Martin Campbell. “It was very exciting to be on a real movie set with Fred Ward, David Wagner, Julianne Moore, and Clancy Brown, who I later became good friends with. He was from my hometown of Mansfield, Ohio.” Daniels got to work with Clancy again back in Mansfield, Ohio in the feature film “Shawshank Redemption.’ “It was a blast to have him, and Morgan Freeman actually come to my house and drink a beer.”

Chef Daniels and actor Danny Glover


 

 

 

He followed the director around the set watching him do his work and the director never said a word about why he was following him around. “One day at lunch he said, ‘I have been seeing you follow me around and see you have a very keen interest in acting and film.'”  He asked him his name and where he was from. He told him, Ohio. “I had only been in California for four days. Hollywood director Martin Campbell said he was going to write “Taft Hardly” into the script for me, so that I’d have a scene in the movie. The scene was me, by myself, reading lines and a stunt.” After this movie, the director hooked him up with Bette Midler and James Caan in the film “For the Boys.”

Chef Daniels and musician Kenny G

Daniels worked on a few more films, but soon he went on hiatus. “I still had my chef background and applied at Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant Spagos. Hanging out there, I ran into people of all walks of life, even celebrities that I had met in the motion picture business. I soon started getting asked to cater dinner parties and it quickly snowballed.” His resume includes an exciting list of people that he has had the pleasure of serving, many of them celebrities.

“Before my dear mother passed away, she told me to follow my dream. I have a God-given talent to cook great food. This culinary career has led me to many great things, and I continue to meet very interesting people.”

GO BANG! Magazine: Growing up, who were some of the people that inspired you and why?

Chef Daniels: I was always inspired by my mom and grandmother Lilly Pearl, also my dad and uncle Braxton. They put so much joy into what they were doing as far as food. They were always cooking for others. This made my soul glow, and my family was so loving. So, I wanted to make this happen for myself. Also, I stuck with it and have created some of America’s best dishes.

GO BANG! Magazine: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in culinary arts?

Chef Daniels: I knew this was what I wanted to do because it started getting good to me. I started seeing what greatness my family had cooking. I loved to watch Julia Childs and her French cuisine. It allowed me to take my own flavors and turn them in to French Creole dishes.

GO BANG! Magazine: Prior to pursuing a career as a chef, you were involved in acting and the film industry. What caused you to go on hiatus and do you see yourself ever returning to the acting field?

Chef Daniels: Acting was always a goal. I did plays in grade school, junior high and I studied drama at Malabar high school where I graduated. I went on to Ohio State, studying theatre and film under Professor Larry Evans. I even went to Stanford Canada to see the big theatre festival. I got acquainted with Shakespeare and the Elizabethan and Renaissance theatre.

My cousin Eric Wilson was a hairdresser in the motion picture business and hooked me up with Danny Glover, Morgan Freeman, and Samuel L. Jackson. I went to California and within days was on a motion picture set. This continued for at least six more motion pictures. Then a hiatus came, but I had a chef background, so I traveled over to Beverly Hills and hung out at Wolfgang Pucks Spargo’s and other prominent Los Angeles upscale restaurants. I started seeing celebrities I had met and worked with and soon found myself doing dinner parties. It caught on. I loved acting and would not want to return to it on a grand scale, but would dabble in small stuff that wouldn’t take up too much of my time.

GO BANG! Magazine: What are some of your most favorite dishes to prepare and which are your most popular?

Chef Daniels: I love preparing dishes from all over the world and was greatly inspired by Anthony Bourdain and other world traveling chefs. I always wanted to get away from the basics and explore things “out of the box.” I would create culinary dishes that people around just didn’t do. My French Creole recipes caught on to something amazing. I also love doing authentic Italian, where I was personally trained by Chef Pagani, who showed me everything I needed to know about Italian cuisine. I also slay Asian, Indian, Thai, Southwestern and other world cuisines.


GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to being a chef, you are also an entrepreneur.  You’re the owner and founder of MD Creative Blends. Tell our audience about your business and its mission.

Chef Daniels: After everything we have discussed up until now, and after being able to create many fusions of cuisines which started out as a hobby that became a lifelong accelerated career, I decided to start my own business called MD Creative Blends. My company blends a combination of culinary cuisine dishes that were strictly my design and creation. People always ask me for recipes, which I gladly give, but they can never get it right. I guess that comes from studying for years the art of exquisite culinary cuisine. That made it easy for companies to hire me because I am that one stop shop.

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your style of cooking and what makes your dishes stand out from your competition?

Chef Daniels: My style of cooking consists of everything a person could go through in a day. Let’s think about what that means: love; happiness; disappointment; craziness; and sadness. Now if you combine just some of these feelings, you come out with an out of sight dish. I always cook when I’m feeling some kind of way.

When I go to food shows, other chefs know I’m present because of the crowd. I always have a large eye-catching display with music, food, and the personality of Chef Michael Daniels. I guess you can call it desirable charm. You can’t create charm. It must be a God-given blessing. Now do the math and equations and you come out with MD Creative Blends Culinary. This is why the question is always “How do you get your food to taste this way?” Lol. The answer is, “it’s a blessing from God!“

GO BANG! Magazine: If you had the opportunity to experience one of your wildest dreams, what would that dream be, and who would you share it with?

Chef Daniels: My dream is to be able to do this forever in a promised paradise condition, where the best vegetables are grown and the tastiest fruit your palate could ever imagine are found. Free from hurt and pain, everyone eating from a table as far as your eyes could see. People smiling and happy to be sitting there because they were able to taste and eat anything their hearts desired, without worrying about if they could afford it. This is my dream. This dream is known as the taste of true Culinary Arts.

GO BANG! Magazine: If you had the opportunity to serve any individual dead or alive, who would it be, what would you serve, and why would it be so special to serve them.

Chef Daniels: This would be everyone that I loved growing up who helped start me out on this career of culinary arts. My mother and grandmothers told me that I had a God-given gift to cook fine cuisine. This stuck in my heart to this very day. I would love for all my dead loved ones to see what I have accomplished in this field. My hope is for them to be resurrected back to life as healthy human beings and to enjoy life for what it was meant to be. I would serve every dish my family specialized in. Every cake or pie Aunt Pinky Mae has ever tasted. Every biscuit my grandmother Lily Pearl has ever made and every piece of seafood my father has ever caught out of waters from around the world. Yes, I would serve the Culinary Cuisine of Life.


GO BANG! Magazine: I’m sure that your dear mother is proud that you have achieved your dream, as she instructed you to accomplish. What advice would YOU give a young boy or girl, that wanted to pursue a career in the culinary arts?

Chef Daniels: If their little hearts are into it just as mine were, they should attend my cooking class and let me show them from the beginning how to become a culinary chef, where your food will taste fantastic, and people will ask, “How did you get your food to taste like this?” They will know in their hearts, I learned this from a true lover of culinary cuisine.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what do you want your legacy to be?

Chef Daniels: I want my legacy to be that everyone that learned something from me, they took it to heart, and they treated people with respect and love. That they were able to taste and admire everything I have taught them and that they followed my instructions.

Last but not least, that they too were able to pass along traditions to their families and friends. I would give them a culinary experience that nobody could imagine, with the exception that they were trained by Chef Michael Daniels.

GO BANG! Magazine: Chef Daniels, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that now you have been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!

Chef Daniels: “Thank you, Pierre, for your interview! Stay tuned, things are going to keep growing. I have a great publicist and we are not taking any cheap shots. Remember it’s a culinary adventure!!!”

 

FOR BOOKINGS OR INTERVIEWS, CONTACT PUBLICIST:

Desirae L. Benson | ForbesBLK Official MemberEntertainment Publicist | Multimedia Journalist

icon(804)389-8877   iconADayInTheLifeOfDesirae.com

iconDesiraeBBB@gmail.com



LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Cover Story: CHICAGO’S “THE WAREHOUSE” RECEIVES LANDMARK STATUS

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

With the support of House music fans, Preservation Chicago, the city of Chicago, and Mayor Brandon Johnson, the building that once was the location of The Warehouse received landmark status by the Chicago City Council. City Council’s Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards approved landmark status for the building during its Tuesday meeting. It was announced Thursday, June 22, 2023.

In the late ’70s and early ’80s, “The Warehouse”, a building known as the birthplace of House music, located at 206 S. Jefferson St. in the West Loop, was home to dance parties hosted by legendary Chicago DJ Frankie Knuckles, who helped create House music and popularize it around the world.

The road to landmarking The Warehouse started earlier this year when thousands of people signed an online petition calling on the city to “save” the West Loop building. The landmark designation protects the building’s facade and roofline from being altered by the current owner.

The building — today home to a law office — has been at the center of a recent push to recognize Chicago’s contributions to House music, as well as the numerous LGBTQ+, Black and Latino Chicagoans who helped define the genre.

“The Warehouse opened in 1977 with DJ Frankie Knuckles and a state-of-the art sound system per the vision of owner Robert Williams to convert an old industrial building into a vibrant nightclub creating dancefloor freedom for Chicago’s Black gay community,” Preservation Chicago stated. “It was at this club, with the iconic DJ Frankie Knuckles at the helm, that house music was developed. From The Warehouse this new sound spread from Chicago living rooms to the rest of the world,” Max Chavez, the Director of Research and Special Projects with Preservation Chicago, said at Tuesday’s zoning meeting. “This landscape of world music, because of The Warehouse, because of Frankie Knuckles and because of Chicago was changed forever.”

EDITOR’S NOTE:  As a lifetime city of Chicago resident, former DJ, and lover of the House culture, I along with many of my House loving friends who were either pioneers in the creation of House music, patrons of the Warehouse, or simply fans of Frankie Knuckles, made it our mission to put a petition together and UNITE to secure the protection of the place that started it ALL. The entire House community, across planet Earth, came together as a family, to ensure that 206 S. Jefferson would stand forever!

I felt proud to see the House community come together, especially the Chicago House community come together.  LET’S KEEP THAT SPIRIT!!!

 

Click here to see a previous GO BANG! Magazine tribute to Frankie Knuckles upon his passing.

For more background information on the Warehouse and Frankie Knuckles, follow this link to a “Bassement Sound’s” article.

 

 

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. In addition, he’s 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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Arts & Culture/Event: “Grand Opening” of INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM, S.C.

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, on the nation, and on the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located in Charleston, S.C., at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey.

Across 9 galleries and a memorial garden with art, objects, artifacts, and multi-media interaction, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history. As a result, the museum will stand as one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today. The mission of IAAM is to honor the untold stories of the African American journey at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond.

Its nine distinct galleries will demonstrate how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development throughout the nation and beyond, while offering an especially close look at the connection to the South Carolina Lowcountry. These include the Transatlantic Experience, the Atlantic Worlds Gallery, the South Carolina Connections Gallery, the Gullah Geechee Gallery, the American Journeys Gallery, the Carolina Gold Gallery, the
African Roots Gallery, The Theater, and the Special Exhibitions Gallery.

In addition to the galleries, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden sprawls across the museum’s grounds and reflects on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, one of the many docks in Charleston Harbor at which an estimated 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Artistic installations and site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area, which will be free and open to the public, also provides a space for informal and structured gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.

Working to serve and improve equity for Black and African Americans, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history and is thus one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today.

Opening on June 27 of 2023, IAAM has been in the works since 2000 when former Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr., voiced a need for the museum in his State of the City address. In 2002, a steering committee was formed to explore the development of the museum, and in 2005, Congressman Jim Clyburn became the museum’s first chair of the Board of Directors. As of early 2022, IAAM had raised close to $100 million dollars toward building construction and the foundation of what will comprise the heart of the museum. Since 2021, Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, president and chief executive officer of IAAM, has guided the extensive efforts leading to the museum’s opening and its ongoing efforts to tell the story of the African American journey.

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden, a collection of gardens and artistic installations that sprawls across the IAAM grounds, will be free and open to the public. It will give visitors the opportunity to honor African ancestors and reflect on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf facing the harbor, where some historians estimate more than 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area also allows for
informal and programmed gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.

Technology and Educational Features for Visitors:

• Another centerpiece of the museum, the “Atlantic Worlds Gallery,” will be furnished with North America’s first public installation of the latest Crystal LED display in a 32-
foot wide, 7-foot-high configuration provided by Sony. The immersive audio/visual experience is expected to elicit a powerful emotional response from visitors, as it brings
history to life through technology.

• To help visitors explore, the South Carolina Connections Gallery includes an interactive table digital map (supported by Google) that highlights where history happened throughout the state and the Lowcountry.

• The Theater (supported by BMW) will feature a commissioned film installation, The Ummah Chroma, an award-winning film collective. It will serve as both a visitor orientation to the museum experience and a work of art to be screened and distributed internationally. The film will be a visual and an emotional encapsulation of the spirit, resilience, and power of people of African descent.

The International African American Museum (IAAM) features nine galleries housing 11 core exhibits and one changing exhibit that rotates two to three times annually. The museum also publishes a consistent series of digital exhibits on the Google Arts & Culture platform. The core exhibits include over 150 historical objects, over 30 works of art, nearly 50 films and digital interactives, and numerous analog interactives and didactic tools intended to bring history to life and to actively resist global systemic racism. Below are brief descriptions of each gallery and exhibit.



Transatlantic Experience | Transatlantic Experience Exhibit
The Transatlantic Experience provides visitors with a large-scale immersive media experience. Situated as the entry point to the east wing of IAAM, this experience features eight large video screens, which take visitors on a historical journey through hundreds of years of history, from African cultural roots to the tragedy of the Middle Passage and into local and international diaspora scenes and traditions. The four-minute film offers an introductory experience to the themes, emotions, and historical interpretations that visitors will encounter throughout their museum experience.

The Theater Gallery | Film Exhibit
The Theater Gallery, adjacent to the Transatlantic Experience, features films and videos, which provide broad historical context and further orient the visitor to the overall museum experience through a narrative storytelling format. The original film to be featured in this gallery will be produced and co-conceived by the award-winning film collective The Ummah Chroma.

Gullah Geechee Gallery | Gullah Geechee Exhibit
With a focus on the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides an introduction to Gullah Geechee history and culture. Through the exploration of themes including activism, organization, and cultural practices and preservation, this gallery examines the history of the community as well as contemporary issues facing Gullah Geechee communities. Featuring a full-size bateau (boat), a recreated praise house, and multiple media experiences, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides insight into the dynamic cultural identity of the Gullah Geechee people and endeavors to define and demystify what it means to be Gullah Geechee.

South Carolina Connections Gallery | South Carolina Connections Exhibit
The South Carolina Connections Gallery focuses on African American and African diasporic history that is within and historically interconnected to South Carolina. Featuring key artifacts and an interactive map table powered by Google, the South Carolina Connections Gallery provides insight into known and lesser-known South Carolinians, as well as relevant places and events from early colonial settlement to the present. This gallery tells stories of resistance and achievement, from the many local, national, and international influential African Americans in South Carolina’s history. Significant artifacts in this gallery include tennis rackets belonging to Althea Gibson, the first African American tennis player to compete at the U.S. National Championships, as well as a Waterford Crystal Award, commemorating her Wimbledon singles and doubles championship wins in 1957.

African Roots Gallery | African Roots & African Routes Exhibits
The African Roots Exhibit explores the diverse empires, cultures, historic figures, knowledge systems, and technologies of West and West Central Africa — the areas of origin connected to Africans forced to the Americas. A central media program highlights the dynamic past, present, and future of these regions, and Africa more broadly, from empires and societies to colonies and modern nations. Key artifacts in this exhibit include an 18th century Islamic astrolabe, as well as masks, currency, and jewelry from different West and West Central African ethnolinguistic groups.

The African Routes: Diaspora in the Atlantic World Exhibit illuminates stories that exemplify the influence and movement of people of African descent throughout the Atlantic World over time, from the Transatlantic slave trade to the 21st century. Layered against a collage of images that illustrate the vast breadth and diversity of the African diaspora in the Atlantic World, stories are organized by themes of intellectual connections, spirituality, and cultural expressions presented through a dynamic media program.

Atlantic Worlds Gallery | Atlantic Worlds Exhibit
The Atlantic Worlds Gallery explores the nuanced historical connections throughout the Black Atlantic World. Focusing on the major themes of resistance, revolution, creolization, immigration, and the Middle Passage, this gallery explores the deep interconnectivity between Africa, the Americas, and Europe. A 30-foot, ultra-high-definition video screen on the South wall of the gallery features an original short film that examines the historical connections between Charleston, Barbados, and Sierra Leone. The floor space of the gallery is filled with both historical and contemporary objects, art, and artifacts from throughout the Black Atlantic World.

Carolina Gold Gallery | Carolina Gold & Memories of the Enslaved Exhibits
By examining the roots of the plantation system, the skills and knowledge of Africans from rice growing regions of Africa, and how enslaved Africans and their descendants created community, kinship, and cultivated resistance, the Carolina Gold Exhibit demonstrates the transformative impact of enslaved people who labored on plantations in South Carolina and helped build the lucrative rice industry. A media program describes the knowledge and labor of enslaved people on the rice plantations, illustrating how enslaved West Africans brought significant knowledge and technological contributions to rice cultivation in the region, while also describing the physical and emotional toll it took on those working in tidal rice-growing regions in South Carolina.

The Memories of the Enslaved Exhibit utilizes quotes and insight of formally enslaved people to examine the brutality of chattel slavery. The lived experiences of these men and women demonstrate the importance of memory, violence, family, and culture. Featuring original artifacts including a jug made by enslaved potter Dave “The Potter” Drake and Ashley’s Sack, this exhibit illustrates how remembrance of enslavement was passed down intergenerationally within African American families. The media program in this gallery encourages visitors to form an emotional connection with formerly enslaved people by hearing their stories, their words, and their voices.

American Journeys Gallery | American Journeys Exhibit
The American Journeys Gallery presents key moments, figures, and movements in African American history that are interconnected with South Carolina, showing how they shaped, and were shaped, by local, national, and international cultures, politics, and economies. This gallery is organized into twelve chronological sections: Carolina in the Atlantic World; the Rise of Plantation Slavery; Revolutions; Expanding the United States; Emancipation to Reconstruction; the Return of the Old Order; Color Lines; Mobility, Migrations, and Military Service; South Carolina’s Freedom Struggle; Global Human Rights; Revolts and Transformations; and Movements. Significant artifacts in the gallery include the “Come and Join Us Brothers” lithograph, published by the Supervisory Committee for Recruiting Colored Regiments, Cir. 1863; a uniform from Company E, 24th U.S. Infantry Buffalo Soldier regiment formed in 1869; one of two American flags flown over the United States Capitol on April 4, 2018, in remembrance of the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in Memphis, Tennessee; along with various items connected to the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements, both locally and nationally.

Special Exhibitions Gallery
The Special Exhibitions Gallery is a 3000 sq ft. space dedicated to temporary, rotating exhibits. This gallery features a variety of historical, artistic, and immersive exhibits, which expand on the core exhibits. These include traveling shows curated by other institutions, as well as shows originated by IAAM. The first rotating exhibit produced by IAAM will be titled Follow the North Star. Sponsored by Michelin, this exhibit will explore the literal and figurative theme of mobility throughout African American history.

Creative Journeys Exhibit
The Creative Journeys Exhibit consists of artwork, poems, films, and creative materials placed throughout IAAM. These works of art on walls, pedestals, and screens exist in conversation with the historical content of each gallery and provide alternative vantage points for understanding history and the role that creative expression plays in both shaping and reflecting its arc. Existing in sections throughout each gallery, rather than in a dedicated gallery of its own, the Creative Journeys Exhibit features works that are connected visually through color branding, as well as thematically through curatorial text primarily displayed within the American Journeys Gallery.

Digital Exhibits
IAAM utilizes the Google Arts & Culture platform to develop and publish digital exhibits which explore themes and special topics relevant to the museum’s mission. These exhibits feature film, photography, interactive media, and historical interpretation that go beyond the stories and themes explored within the core exhibits in the building. With more stories and historically significant events that could ever fit in a single building, IAAM’s Digital Exhibits platform allows the museum to significantly expand its breadth and reach. In addition to these digital exhibits, the museum’s core collection and physical exhibits will be digitized and made available online.

LEADERSHIP

Tonya M. Matthews, PhD
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dr. Tonya M. Matthews is a thought-leader in institutionalized equity and inclusion frameworks, social entrepreneurship, and the intersectionality of formal and informal education. Her background as both poet and engineer have made her a highly sought-after visioning partner on boards and community building projects, as well as a frequent public speaker and presenter for communities across all ages and venues.

John Anderson
Vice President of Administration and Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Anderson joined the International African American Museum in 2021 as vice president and COO. In this role, he is responsible for activating the museum’s visitor experiences, building and site operations, organizational administration, and company culture. Prior to joining IAAM, Anderson served as the Michigan Science Center’s vice president of administration and chief operating officer. Prior to that, he held multiple professional positions with the City of Detroit and Detroit Zoological Society.

Dianne Firment
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Firment joined the International African American Museum in 2019 as director of finance and was promoted to CFO in 2021. In this role she is responsible for propelling the financial growth and success of the museum’s operations.

Malika N. Pryor
Chief Learning and Education Officer
Malika N. Pryor, chief learning and engagement officer for the International African American Museum, provides strategic direction for creating and enhancing dynamic programs that explore the Middle Passage, the African diaspora, and the crucial contributions that African Americans have made to our history and to our modern world. As a member of the senior executive team, Pryor works closely with the CEO to establish partnerships and programs that support and sustain the museum’s mission, including exhibitions, school programs, faith-based initiatives and programs, local and national public programs, and the Center for Family History, a one-of-a-kind
research center that focuses on African American genealogy.


For more information, please visit www.iaamuseum.org or call 843-872-5352.

 

 

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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Cover Story: RECAP OF BARACK OBAMA’S RECENT TRIP TO CHICAGO on 5/10/23

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photo courtesy of Obama.org

Reprinted from email:  http://www.Obama.org

Recap video link

 

Hi Pierre,

Earlier this week, I made a trip home to Chicago to hear firsthand from some of the inspiring young people and leaders who are a part of Obama Foundation programming.

From meeting in a church I first visited as a young man, to joining the MBK Alliance for a timely conversation, check out this recap video of my visit.

On Wednesday, May 10th, I was proud to help the MBK Alliance celebrate four communities that are doing extraordinary work to address the persistent opportunity gaps young boys and men of color face with real, measurable impact.

The cities of Newark, Omaha, Tulsa, and Yonkers, in partnership with organizations on the ground, are making strides to reduce violence, raise graduation rates, and increase school attendance for students of all ages.

With access to education and mentorship in environments free from violence, these young people are getting a fair shot to live up to their fullest potential. This work is urgent and these communities are setting an example for cities across the country.

I also stopped by Lilydale First Baptist Church on the South Side—where my organizing career began—to meet with Pastor Alvin Love, as well as Obama Foundation Scholars ahead of their graduation.

Pastor Love and I shared some advice with these leaders, who are graduating from the University of Chicago and Columbia University, as they prepare to put the knowledge they’ve gained to work in their own communities.

They give me hope for the future. I look forward to seeing what they achieve in the coming years, and I know you probably do, too.

Thanks for being a part of this work.

—Barack

 

 

Music/Dance/Theater/Television/Business: KALONDA KAY “A Quadruple Threat & Entrepreneur”

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

All photos courtesy of Kalonda Kay

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO surrounded by successful business owners within her family and a grandmother who shared her life in the entertainment world, Kalonda followed in her footsteps and began dance and music as early as five years old. She began dancing at Judy Best Talent Center and began singing opera at the Fox Theater’s Annual “Nutcracker” production from age 6 – 15 with the Gospel Music Workshop of America.

She has used her many talents and has been blessed with opportunities in various areas of entertainment. She began teaching dance throughout the St. Louis region as early as 19 years of age. In 2010, Kalonda earned a leading role in the historical Urban Hip-Hop musical held at the historical Black Repertory Theater based in St. Louis, MO. “Real Life” was directed and produced by Joel PE. King, founder of JPEK Theatre Group as her first acting experience. She not only had a leading role but was also cast as a lead dancer and vocalist. Kalonda continued to utilize her dance experience throughout the years by performing with many national and local recording artists.

She also received a record deal as a vocal artist with Universal Records at the age of 21. She’s currently an independent lead singer showcasing with various local bands performing at various public and private events throughout the area.

Kalonda recently dabbled more into her acting career. She worked as a lead actor alongside celebrity actor Carl Anthony Payne II for the “On the Set” Summer Film Camp in Nashville, TN and casted on the BET (Black Entertainment Television) Network for an upcoming series and a lead role for “Don’t Go There” on St. Louis Public Radio.

She’s a jack of all trades. Kalonda was also the Associate Director, Lighting Director, and Choreographer for the recent play “Meeting at the Elder’s Circle” under the direction of Joel P.E. King in August 2022, at the Grandel Theatre. In September 2022, she performed two lead monologues for Sankofa Live under the direction of writer Maya Maedell Singh at the Grandel Theatre. She has performed with national and local recording artists. Kalonda recently signed a management deal with Major Moves Music Group. She is co-owner of Under Grace Home Health, Adult Day Program, U.G. Commissary LLC, and New Avenue Inc.

GO BANG! Magazine: Well, hello there Kalonda Kay. You’re a quadruple artistic threat, being a singer, actress, dancer, and performer. What is it about the entertainment industry that attracted you to it?

Kalonda Kay: I truly believe that the industry pulled me in subconsciously. I was too young to know anything about the life of entertainment, however I knew good music when I heard it. I knew how the music made me feel when listening. I realized that it was therapeutic and that because I had a gift to sing, I wanted to share with the world the sensation I received when I listened.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your first talents blossomed in singing and dance. How was your talent discovered and when did you know that you wanted to pursue the entertainment industry professionally?

Kalonda Kay: I have always been very shy, but whenever I was put on any stage, I became a different person. I lost all shyness. My mother was the one who placed me in many events and competitions as early as six years old. At that time, I only knew I enjoyed performing and drowning myself in my talent.
Many of my teachers and community groups would sign me up to sing and/or dance for programs and various events. They must have seen something in me that I had no idea would place me where I am today.

 

GO BANG! Magazine: Soon after, at age 19, you started acting and landed the lead role, lead dancer and vocalist in “Real Life,” an urban, Hip Hop musical. What was the highlight of that fantastic opportunity and what did you learn from it?

Kalonda Kay: I had never acted a day in my life! (Lol) That experience gave me more confidence in my talents and introduced me to the brand-new talent of acting. My highlight was the “baby momma dance.” I would perform in the very beginning of the show. I was interpreting the worst nightmare in my castmate’s dream. The dance was always everyone’s favorite. The entire musical was fast paced and intense, especially since I played so many parts (actor, singer, and dancer.) “Real Life” taught me how to juggle many things at one time, to be quick on my toes, and how to multi-task when it comes to my talents.

GO BANG! Magazine: At the age of 21, you were blessed with a record deal from Universal Records. Being your first commercial record deal had to be quite an exciting time. What did you like the most from that experience and what shocked you the most about the music industry?

Kalonda Kay: Being able to walk into a label and perform for label execs and they see my talent. What a blessing!!! I enjoyed meeting and working with Static Major. What shocked me was to hear him tell me how talented and how professional he thought I was. That meant everything!! He was an amazing talent for the world to witness. Especially ME! I also traveled and enjoyed meeting so many other talented individuals. It was definitely an experience that I’m grateful for.

GO BANG! Magazine: More recently, you’re strengthened your acting chops by working alongside famed “Martin” hit tv sitcom star actor Carl Anthony Payne. Please describe that experience and what it was like working alongside a famed actor.

Kalonda Kay: Wow, Wow, Wow!!! That experience was hilarious and so fulfilling. Before filming, I studied my lines to be sure I would be ready to work with such an icon. However, the day of filming on set with him, he basically freestyled. All my studying went out the window. He pushed me to fall right in order with his goofiness. I was honored. He said I did an awesome job, especially because he was so off script. I enjoyed every minute.

GO BANG! Magazine: You currently have a hit new single “Too Soon”, produced by 3x Grammy Nominated Producer Joe “Capo” Kent. “Too Soon” is bringing back the 90’s feel in a modern way. Please describe your hit single to our readers, “The Bangers”, who may not have heard it yet?

Kalonda Kay: “Too Soon” is a vibe. It’s a song you listen to when you’re doing your weekend cleaning, riding in the car, or pretty much anywhere. The song gives you that 90’s feel, but the video gives you a more visual vibe of the song. I love it and it feels good.

GO BANG! Magazine: What other new music or projects are you working on that our readers should be on the lookout for?

Kalonda Kay: I’m planning to release my next single in June 2023! It’s also synchrotronic to “Too Soon” as far as the vibe is concerned. My goal for my entire project is to create “timeless” music. Something anyone can listen to and enjoy. I’m looking forward to the release. I’m currently lining up shows and appearances to build connections which will lead to more opportunities.

GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to being a super-talented artist, you are also technically gifted, being an Associated Director, Lighting Director, and Choreographer of a recent play “Meeting at the Elders Circle.” Please describe that experience and how working behind the scenes differs from working in front of the camera.

Kalonda Kay: I enjoy the planning and operations of many genres of entertainment, as well as in family or business settings. I’m the “Hostess with the Mostess,” as the saying goes. I go over and beyond with anything that I do. I like to give good products, whether I’m on stage or behind the scenes. What’s important to me is what the audience will like and how it makes them feel. I’m always intentional when it comes to bringing a writer’s vision to life.

When you’re on stage, you can’t see everything. You miss the good stuff, as well as the things that need to be adjusted. When you’re looking from behind the scenes, you see it all. I’m such a perfectionist at times. It’s probably a good thing that I can’t see what’s happening when I’m on stage. (lol)

GO BANG! Magazine: You are also an entrepreneur, being the co-owner of Under Grace Home Health, Adult Day Program, U.G. Commissary LLC, and New Avenue Inc. Please tell our readers about your businesses and how to contact you if they are interested in your services.

Kalonda Kay: I have been working for myself since 2017 and it has been a blessing. I wish I had stepped out on faith many years ago. Yet, I also believe everything happens when it should.

My businesses all focus on helping the community. Each business has its’ specific area of expertise. Under Grace Home Health program helps individuals to receive assistance with daily needs in the comfort of their own homes. The Adult Day Program, on the other hand, gives a safe space for seniors or disabled adults to come and experience many different recreational activities with their peers. UG Commissary provides a commercial kitchen incubator for food truck operators, caterers, bakers, and business owners to create and expand their businesses. New Avenue Inc. is a Non-profit organization that is dedicated to the mental, spiritual, physical and financial enrichment of family by introducing or re-introducing strategies to create healthy sustainable lives and businesses.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what do you want your legacy to be Kalonda Kay?

Kalonda Kay: I want the world to see the joy in my journey. How I didn’t set the bar but allowed GOD to move me as HE saw best. I want to always be remembered for my loving spirit and how I love and accept everyone for who they are. Also, how trauma, bad experiences and things that didn’t work out never poisoned my spirit. Lastly, for those who know me or see me from afar, to remember that I’m always smiling.

GO BANG! Magazine: Well Kalonda Kay, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!

FOR ADDITIONAL HISTORY, PLEASE FOLLOW KALONDA KAY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

“Too Soon” – Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiXDQsZ4sJ4


“Too Soon” – Link to buy:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/kalondakay/too-soon?fbclid=IwAR2oywbZbknH3P8L-wqOC7DbsbZfsa6lIb9F6zrEJyliyVpWbXZXpHH_-nE&mibextid=Zxz2cZ

Email: kalondakayent@gmail.com
Facebook : Kalonda_Kay
Instagram : Kalonda_Kay
YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@kalondakay
WEBSITE: www.KalondaKay.com



Publicist: Desirae L. Benson | DesiraeBBB@gmail.com





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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! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

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