Friday, December 31, 2010

The 10 Best Things About 2010

I have been debating putting together this list for awhile and I spent so much time doing my best tracks and albums that it almost didn't. But the fact is that 2010 was such a major year for me in so many ways that I simply had to retrace my steps and take a look at some of the biggest and best moments, experiences, and opportunities that changed my world this past year. Here are the ten best things about 2010 in chronological order...

1. The Foreign Exchange Grammy Nomination Party (January)


This was definitely a major turning point for me and my events. This free party celebrating the first Grammy nomination of The Foreign Exchange yielded an overwhelming response. 1200 RSVPs and a line around the block cemented my place among LA's recognized promoters and opened up plenty of new opportunities for me.

2. Ian the Intern (March)
Thank God for Ian, the very first intern for Nu-Soul Magazine. His hard work and dedication helped us double our traffic numbers in just a few short months. From the daily postings to the assistance at my numerous events, Ian was an invaluable addition to my world.

3. Birthday Raver Party (April)
I celebrated my 32nd birthday with an all night raver house party complete with glow sticks, candy jewelry and all vinyl dj sets!

4. The Strictly Social Tour (May)

I embarked on my first mini-tour in May, taking my signature monthly event Strictly Social to 3 cities in 3 weeks. With a solid lineup of artists that included Erik Rico, Afta-1, Havana, and Iman Williams not to mention the coming out party of Mark de Clive-Lowe and Sy Smith, the month of May saw Strictly Social take over San Francisco, LA and San Diego!

5. Electric Daisy Carnival (June)

I have attended many a dance music festival as both a fan and a journalist but none have compared to EDC in 2010. The epic scale of the event was outmatched only by the epic scale of my experience. The crew at Insomniac and MSO PR truly took care of media with rapid entrance through the artist area, a media sky box with supplies and a sick view, and full backstage access to mix and mingle with the talent. All my years of raving paid off in a big way!

6. Body Boyz United Las Vegas (4th of July)

The most fun I have ever had in Vegas and I was working! A truly great group of men from all parts of the world enjoying one of the craziest weekends around. This was an intimate affair that provided something new and different each day and plenty of eye candy!

7. All Hearts Tour w/ Robyn and Kelis (July)
Robyn was one of the most talked about artists of the year and this show with Kelis was the best I attended all year. I danced, I sang, I gushed!

8. September at Strictly Social
The September 2010 edition of Strictly Social seemed to be blessed by the gods or something. After booking Sa-Ra as headliners the blessings kept coming with Muhsinah jumping on at the last minute and Hennessy providing an open bar for the first hour of the night. Plus everyone discovered the remarkable talents of Grillade. The night broke all of our attendance records and set me up for some big things in 2011.

9. Halloween as Lil Wayne

After enduring so many compliments/insults from kids saying I looked like Lil Wayne, I embraced the absurdity of it all and dressed up as Weezy and scored my most popular costume ever. Drunken antics ensued.

10. Broke As F**k Thanksgiving

The most rewarding thing about throwing events is that I get to take something that is very personal to me and share it with the world. It warms my heart to know that I have helped keep the fire in LA's breakbeat scene and this Thanksgiving Eve party with none other than Simply Jeff providing an old school set, was the biggest and best I put together all year!

So that was my 2010! It was a major blast where all my hard work started to pay off in ways that I could have never expected. I am ready for the new challenges of 2011. Get ready!

Friday, December 10, 2010

A Broke As F**k Christmas - Wednesday December 22, 2010


Nu-Soul Magazine presents
A BROKE AS F**K CHRISTMAS
Wednesday December 22, 2010
Holiday shopping got you down? The come celebrate with the the BROKE crew for another FREE evening of Breakbeat madness! When you're BROKE AS F**K, come and get some free BEATS!
BROKE AS F**K is a monthly party featuring the best in Breakbeat, Booty, and Bass!
Egg Noggin' Beats By:
Ezentric (Blu Monkey)
http://twitter.com/djezentric
NOMAD aka Normysoul aka ME!
http://twitter.com/normysoul
ADMISSION IS FREE!
RSVP to events@nu-soulmag.com to get on the list!

9pm – 2am
21+
Blu Monkey Bar & Lounge
5521 Hollywood Blvd (at Western)
Los Angeles, CA
($5 Parking Available in Back Alley)
http://theblumonkey.com/

Thursday, December 09, 2010

My Review of Robyn's Final Body Talk!


Robyn fulfills her promise and drops the final installment of her 2010 Body Talk series of albums.

Monday, December 06, 2010

On The Runway at the Lucratif Fashion Show


I hit the runway this past weekend as a part of Lucratif's fashion show at Hollywood mega club The Vanguard. I got to walk in gear from Caleb Clothing, a very dope hip-hop inspired t-shirt company, that I have worked with on a Nu-Soul event in the past. Check out the pics then show some love to Lucratif and Caleb Clothing.




http://www.lucratifstreet.com/
http://calebclothing.com/

Thursday, December 02, 2010

I am walking in the LUCRATIF Fashion show this Saturday Dec 4, 2010


Hey now! I landed another fashion show! I will be walking for streetwear brand Lucratif this Saturday night December 4, 2010 at mega Hollywood dance club the Vanguard. Not sure what I'll be wearing but I don't think I will be so naked this time. LOL. Hope to see my peeps there. Get there early and say "Lucratif" at the door to get in FREE before 10pm. Stay tuned as I may have my own list...


http://www.lucratifstreet.com/
http://twitter.com/LUCRATIF1

Monday, November 29, 2010

I am Unleashing ART + SOUL in Downtown LA December 11, 2010


Nu-Soul Magazine + The Mezz
Present
ART + SOUL
Saturday December 11, 2010

Nu-Soul continues to take part in the Downtown Los Angeles Renaissance transforming a 100-year old speakeasy in the historic Alexandria Hotel into a unique experience in sight + sound.

This third edition of ART + SOUL will feature live performances from cutting edge talent, art exhibitions from a diverse set of local artists, mood enhancing visual projections, and LIVE ART all within the one-of-a-kind setting of The Mezz.

Live Performances by:

ERIK RICO

The prolific multi-instumentalist, producer, singer, and songwriter Erik Rico is a true Nu-Soul artist! In 2010 alone he has worked with 4Hero's Marc Mac, UK rapper Ty, and house legend Ron Trent, and embarked on tours in Europe and Asia, and headlined Nu-Soul Magazine's Strictly Social tour. If you have never seen Erik live come experience his unique sound that spans broken beat, house, funk, and soul.
http://lifenotesmusic.com

RASHONDRA ANGELLE

SEVEN DAVIS JR.

Sounds by DJ SEVEN57 + DJ MZA (Jazzercise)
http://djseven57.podomatic.com/
http://soul-circle.podomatic.com/

Art Gallery + Video Projections + Live Art

Visuals By HearSee AV
http://hearseeav.com/

Photography by Air Philosophy
http://airphilosophy.com/

$3 Stellas and $5 Nu-Soul Vodka Special ALL NIGHT

Hosted + Curated by
Nu-Soul Magazine + Michelle aka Cali

21+
9pm – 2am

$5 Cover
FREE until 11pm with RSVP to events@nu-soulmag.com

RSVPs must be received by 5pm on Saturday December 11

The Mezz @ the Alexandria Hotel
501 S. Spring Street – 2nd Floor (follow the signs)
Los Angeles, CA 90013

About The Mezz
The Mezz Bar at The Alexandria Hotel is Downtown L.A.’s newest bar in it’s oldest location. Located in the heart of the new downtown LA, the Mezz provides the feel of a speakeasy but with gorgeous detailed ceilings, a stage, and plenty of space to roam.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

My review of Rihanna's LOUD

I give my take on fellow Bajan Rihanna's latest; an infusion of pop, dance, reggae and dancehall.

Read the review

Friday, November 19, 2010

Strictly Social presents Crowne Royale - December 15, 2010



Nu-Soul Magazine & Soul Union Present

STRICTLY SOCIAL

An Evening of Eclectic Soul Fusion

Wednesday December 15, 2010

Strictly Social takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at
LA’s charming Little Temple, continuing the legacy of the renowned
Temple Bar, by featuring a carefully selected showcase of artists and
DJs that reflect the Nu-Soul sound. This monthly event always features
the hottest artists pushing the boundaries of soul and a vibe that is
truly unique.

Featuring Live Performances by

CROWN ROYALE (BUFF1 & RHETTMATIC)

Official Album Release


Rhettmatic, a forefather of today‘s burgeoning LA hip-hop scene, is a
founding member of the Beat Junkie DJ crew, the DJ for hip-hop group
The Visionaries, and an award-winning turntablist – having performed in
numerous competitions across the globe and with upper-echelon artists
such as J Dilla, Cypress Hill and Talib Kweli. Buff1, recently
highlighted as a part of URB Magazine’s “NEXT 100,” brings two
critically acclaimed full-length LPs to the table in 2008’s Pure
and 2009’s There’s Only One, and has stacked up more than a
decade of recording, international touring and honing “show stopping”
stage skills both as a solo artist and with seven-man hip-hop arsenal
Athletic Mic League (AML).
Join us as we celebrate the long-awaited album release of this
legendary pairing.




ROBERT GEE

With a voice, described as a voice you can listen too all by itself
that has a thick, creamy, honey butter presence and vocal prowess that
cannot be taught Robert Gee hails from the city of Brotherly love,
Philly! Get ready for the Strictly Social debut of this soulful brotha.


ILHAME PARIS

She has Morocco in her blood, Paris in her heart and music in her
soul. ILHAME'S cover of Bob Marley’s “Waiting in Vain” has garnered
strong internet airplay and effusive critical acclaim. She has worked
with artists such as Shafiq of Sa-Ra, T3 of Slum Village, and Big Pooh.
Come witness makes her Strictly Social debut.



Our residents DJ Destroyer & DJ Myxzlplix will be spinning a
selection of future soul, organic hip-hop, and electronic beats
all night!



LIVE SHOW BEGINS AT 10:30PM

In the B Room – SOUL GOOD, soulful electronica hosted by Atlantic
Connection & Friends

http://www.facebook.com/pages/SOULGOOD-LA-/119872769927

$10 at the door

Presale Tickets Available for $7: http://fusicology.inticketing.com/events/135750

Strictly Social
Wednesday December 15, 2010

9pm-2am
21+
Little Temple
4519 Santa Monica Blvd
Los
Angeles, CA 90029
http://littletemple.com

http://facebook.com/lastrictlysocial

http://twitter.com/StrictSocialLA

Additional promotional support by
Fusicology, Universal Rhythm, and The Mint Collective.
http://fusicology.com
http://universal-rhythm.com

http://themintcollective.com

Monday, November 15, 2010

Place to Check Out: Cafe 50s

I recently discovered a new place to eat at! Located on Vermont Avenue in the Los Feliz section of Los Angeles, CAFE 50s is the perfect love letter to 1950s diners with a slightly modern twist. I went to this cozy spot for their grand opening a few weeks ago and discovered that not only do they have classic 50s food like burgers, shakes, and fries but also modern twists on these classics like veggie burgers, sweet potato fries, and all manner of goodies. The decor is awesome with lots of 50s movie posters and tidbits splattered all over the walls. And the best part is that it's close to Little Temple where I host my monthly event Strictly Social. I will definitely be hitting this place up and recommending to my artists.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Broke As F**k Thanksgiving w/ Simply Jeff - Nov 24, 2010


Nu-Soul Magazine Presents

BROKE AS F**K THANKSGIVING

Wednesday November 24, 2010

Nu-Soul gives thanks to the BASS this Thanksgiving Eve with Broke As
F**k! With no work the following day this is sure to be our best night
yet! Join us for a FULL PLATE of BREAKBEAT MADNESS!

And it's All FREE!

Gut Bustin Sets By:

SIMPLY JEFF - Old School Breaks Set!

(DJ Culture/Phonomental Records)


Simply Jeff is back at Broke with another set of old school
breakbeats for the faithful. Jeff is synonymous with breaks in Southern
California with a career spanning well over a decade. He is sure to
destroy the dancefloor as only he can.

http://www.simplyjeff.com/

BASS RITUAL

Saddhu & Loomer

(Bass Ritual/Disorient)

http://bassritual.com

http://facebook.com/bassritual

DJ RUSS

(DJ Culture)

http://www.djculture.com/

EVA


The Grand Dame of BROKE, Eva is a major force in the Los Angeles
breakbeat scene, dropping bass bombs on the dancefloor and blowing
minds in the process. Known for her rough and tumble sets of electro
bass and nasty breaks, she never fails to get booties shaking.

Plus Broke Residents



NOMAD aka Normysoul
http://twitter.com/normysoul

ADMISSION IS FREE!
RSVP to events@nu-soulmag.com to get
on the list!

9pm – 2am
21+

Blu Monkey Bar & Lounge

5521 Hollywood Blvd (at Western)
Los Angeles, CA
($5 Parking
Available in Back Alley)
http://theblumonkey.com

Monday, November 08, 2010

My London Travel Article in Bleu Magazine


It took awhile but I finally got to check out my London travel piece that I wrote for Bleu Magazine. I got to lay out a guide for gay men of color of things to do while in London, hotels to stay at, places to party, and all that good stuff.

Check out the e-version of the magazine. My article can be found on pages 30-31! If you are not a member of Bleu Magazine just go ahead ans ign up. You can look at the issue for FREE!

Read my London Article

Friday, November 05, 2010

My Review of Robyn's Body Talk Pt. 2


Club shaking
beats, melodic hooks and Snoop Dogg! What's not to love about Swedish
pixie Robyn's second installment of Body Talk?

Wednesday, November 03, 2010

The Strictly Social All Star Edition is Coming November 17, 2010



Nu-Soul Magazine & Soul Union Present

STRICTLY SOCIAL

An Evening Of Eclectic Soul Fusion

Wednesday November 17, 2010

Strictly Social takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at
LA’s charming Little Temple, continuing the legacy of the renowned
Temple Bar, by featuring a carefully selected showcase of artists and
DJs that reflect the Nu-Soul sound. This monthly event always features
the hottest artists pushing the boundaries of soul and a vibe that is
truly unique.

Join us on November 17 for a very special edition featuring an all
star lineup of past guests in a brand new collaboration!

Featuring Live Performances By

SOUL BROTHERS INC. (I,Ced, Dexter Story, J1)


featuring special guests JIMETTA ROSE, ERIK RICO, & JOY JONES

I, Ced, Dexter Story, and J1 are invaluable parts of the Los Angeles
soul music community and tonight they will be unveiling their brand new
supergroup which is sure to wow us. With none other than critically
acclaimed past Strictly Social alums Jimetta Rose, Erik Rico, and Joy
Jones adding their vocal support this is sure to be a magical
performance of cutting edge sounds.


CHRIS ROB


Chris first came to our attention performing at Strictly Social in
Atlanta but since that time this talented singer/songwriter,
multi-instrumentalist, and producer has worked with Kanye West, Leon
Ware, John Legend and Deborah Cox. With his new EP Mental Notes
fusing jazz and funk, Chris Rob is ready to show Los Angeles how he
throws down.


EMONIFELA

Earthchild by day. Emcee. Crimefighter by night. Poet. Thug
Intellectual. Get ready for the dopeness of Emonifela with a full band!


Our residents DJ Destroyer & DJ Myxzlplix will be spinning a
selection of future soul, organic hip-hop, and electronic beats all
night!



LIVE SHOW BEGINS AT 10:30PM

In the B Room – SOUL GOOD, soulful electronica hosted by Atlantic
Connection & Friends

http://www.facebook.com/pages/SOULGOOD-LA-/119872769927

$10 at the door

Discount tickets available via Fusicology http://fusicology.inticketing.com/events/135146

Strictly Social

Wednesday October 20, 2010

9pm-2am

21+


Little Temple

4519 Santa Monica Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90029

http://littletemple.com

http://facebook.com/lastrictlysocial

http://twitter.com/StrictSocialLA

Additional promotional support by Fusicology, Universal Rhythm,
and The Mint Collective.

http://fusicology.com

http://universal-rhythm.com

http://themintcollective.com

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Halloween 2010 Hijinks as Lil Wayne

Halloween 2010 was a whole lot of crazy fun. I don't know how I survived with all the non stop partying over the weekend. On Sunday I went all out in my Lil Wayne costume. I got tired of stupid white boys telling me that I look like Lil Wayne (simply because I have dreads) so I decided to go in on the joke. And boy was my costume a major hit! I have never been stopped by so many people to take pictures in all my life! But I have to say that I did a pretty good job on this one, even getting his signature tats on my torso. Enjoy the pics!





Saturday, October 30, 2010

Norman the Nomad: Living Paint by David Gilmore


I posted up the behind the scenes shots from this awesome shoot with David Gilmore. Here are the final images of my Living Painting series. These came out pretty awesome!!! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do.



And here are some additional shots that give you a sense of how the illusion was created:





Check out David's work: http://www.modelmayhem.com/1657668

Thursday, October 28, 2010

My Review of the new Blue Six

The new album from Blue Six out on Naked Music is sure to make my year's best! I love this sexy stuff! Check out my review!



Friday, October 22, 2010

I was interviewed for Nu-Soul Radio!


 

One of my side projects is Nu-Soul Radio which is a podcast where Morgan Rhodes, a wonderful radio host from KPFK, interviews the artist that I book at my events. Well I got my chance to sit down with Morgan and we talked about my upbringing, my raver days, my start as a journalist, and finally the creation of Nu-Soul Magazine and all my events. Enjoy this in depth interview!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Hanging with Electric Wire Hustle

As a part of my ongoing support of the Los Angeles music scene, I got the chance to interview the very buzz worthy act from New Zealand, Electric Wire Hustle while they were in town for a big show at Zanzibar. They posted this pic on their blog since we were laughing at all the signs by their hotel pool. These guys were super cool and if you haven't heard of them, please check them out. They mix classic deep soul sounds with futuristic Dilla style prouductions.Gotta love the Kiwis!

http://www.electricwirehustle.com/

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