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“In the past, people were born royal. Nowadays, royalty comes from what you do.”

- Gianni Versace

Adapting and creating are one in the same, speaking from a musical standpoint and time of blending genres, organically. Dr. Jones brings us King Kong, from the mindset of what I feel is the soundtrack to certain moments of my best life.

King Kong is composed of hip hop, house, EDM, and a futuristic sound in general. A sound that answers the question of “Who is Dr. Jones?”

I listened to the EP twice from beginning to end, and made up my mind to believe that Raymond Jones is not only a creative genius, but also a pilot. A pilot in the sense that this 30-minute journey navigates his roots from the Midwest to the West Coast, with hidden details from his life story.

With the end goal of presenting his work as an unbiased masterpiece, the true “significance of game” alludes itself to a fan base that can (and should) appreciate individual sonics of percussion, strings, live music, EDM, and of course, bass.

Let’s take it back to the live instruments - particularly the clear cut strings of the viola. San Francisco Symphony & Jazz Mafia viola player, Keith Law(rence) brought “King Kong” (Track #3) to life. The image of royalty and madness came to mind once I finished my critique of this song, specifically.

Yes, the project is experimental, but not the typical “from scratch” type of work that is overcooked, or undercooked, for that matter. Raymond and Keith finessed the beautiful elements of an out-of-body experience that kept me grounded from start to finish. It’s always the smaller projects that produce the cinematic feelings and visuals that are felt within the mind, body, and soul.

Monolog Records is the umbrella of King Kong’s personified tracklist, transition to the next mind-altering transition, to that “Aha!” moment that takes you back to a decade you wish you lived in (LA or NYC in the 80s, anyone?)

This project wouldn’t be what it was without 2 elements: delegation and culture.

There’s always more than meets the eye with talent and production like this. With Raymond, it started in Chicago at Whitney Young, in the marching band.

Exposure knows no boundaries, and in his case, “It doesn’t mean we aren’t royal.”

King Kong drops on Thursday, February 8th. Stay tuned & vibe right. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

THE ISLAND RECORDING STUDIOS Contact: Marc Taylor 1229 N. North Branch | Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 554-5652

Sweat Your Way Into Summer w/ Ellis Bailey

CHICAGO, IL - R&B singer/songwriter Ellis Bailey released his latest single, Sweat, produced at The Island Recording Studios with visuals by B. Lones. 

Sweat is just a sample of what to expect from his upcoming album, which is set to be released this fall. Ellis and his production team created this track helping Ellis attribute his talent(s) by identifying himself as an artist. 

Symmetrical frames, just the right amount of skin, and a spectrum of beautiful complexions (and tattoos) sets the tone for this track from a different lens. With a mindset that stands apart from artists coming out of Chicago, Ellis maintains a unique reign of quality from project to project. 

“I see music now as a reflection of my musical soul. This is my favorite track on the record. It gets me excited every time I perform it & I love this new sound.”

For more information on Ellis’ upcoming project or recording availability at the Island, please contact Marc Taylor at: marc@groovequest.com

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...Talk about a plot twist.

2KDrae and vocalist Corey Olos merged their talents on this track, simultaneously capturing the essence and reality of being a man with options. 

That moment when your significant other knows they’re in the doghouse, but yet and still wants to play while the mouse is away...

...Olos uses his range of vocals to narrate the play by play (or day?) of infidelity and exploring [his] independence, while 2KDrae turns it up a notch painting a very graphic, uncensored, and raunchy picture of his “weekend wife” fulfilling his fantasies. 

One word: Karma  Produced by Olu Beats 

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SICSundays: St. Patrick’s Day Edition

I guess the luck of the Irish was passed along to the SICSundays crew and performers at this month’s showcase. 

“Luck” is a term often used to describe what some refer to as a “blessing.” Either way, the March Edition of Chicago’s Best Day Party produced another discussion for the books. From new attendees partaking in the fun, to a variety of artists specializing in different genres, March was truly the mark of a new beginning for the SICSundays entity. Each show that I have attended over the past 9 months has brought me to feel closer and closer to everyone involved, and this show is one that undoubtedly brought out a lot of newcomers and our closest friends.

Host SharmonJarmon! officially resigned last month, opening the floor to Blk Soldier, who blessed the SICSundays stage at the last two shows. Hosting this month’s show with P1 combined with DJ Kwiet Storm’s flow of continuity set the tone for the new performers and entities, overall. Timbaland was the featured artist, and that was definitely a treat for some. 

Kwiet Storm kicked the event off with a 10-minute open format set that included some of the best hits from the Dirty South era, a Punjabi mix of Jay-Z’s “Big Pimpin’,” some Aaliyah, a Timbaland tribute, and my favorite...”Raise Up” by Petey Pablo. His transitions were spot-on (per usual), and it was quite the time to watch everyone in the audience get comfortably situated while vibing out remote. 

P1 opened the show with his infamous banger “Stole My Bike,” (alongside MC Gorillv) which everyone should know the words to by now. He completed his set paying homage to the new changes taking place with SICSundays, in addition to sharing his love for music and the lifestyle surrounding it. 

Of course, SICSundays veterans Mos Precious and LP Da Assassin briefly performed their sets in a pregame-like fashion to get attendees out of their seats and ready for the remainder of the show. LP’s new song “Salute” was fun to see performed live and was the perfect intro for our artists.

Trice Da Artist really blew me away with her confidence, stage presence, and vocals. My notes literally say “#HolyFuck” and I can only imagine how she would have rocked the Ladies Edition showcase back in January. Trice is from Gary, Indiana and perfectly narrated her “lost files” emotions and personal experiences in such a relatable way that I thought I was thinking some of her lyrics out loud. Kind of like a “I was thinking it, but you said it,” conversation with your best friends. She switched it up at the end of her set with an upbeat tempo and even more emotion correlated with her lyrics. 

Ramonn was our first rap performer of the evening, and all I could think was, “we have to bring this guy back.” His flow was incredibly smooth (and attractively fast), his tone fit his demeanor, and I would describe his sound like a Future beat combined with Gucci’s flow. 

Poetiq. Oh, Poetiq. Your performance was one of the highlights of the night for me. It all started with the vocals, but once that saxophone was pulled out, it was a wrap for me. I’m a sucker for horns, and her smooth R&B flow combined with the keyboard/drums of her band was untouched and flawless. This set was truly unique and special for the SICSundays roster, and I really can’t put a label on how I describe her genre- which made it that much more grounding to experienc. Oh, and that cover of Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love,” ...I was 100% there for it, so thank you, Poetiq.

MZM joined us to perform his first show in a decade and shared with me that his hunger to perform and write came from his world changing drastically within just one year. MZM reminded me to “rise above the bullshit” with the way he was able to engage the audience with his positive energy. Acknowledging the change of sound in the music industry, MZM stuck to the older, more original sound in his single Old Chicago, on his album Downpour (available on iTunes & Bandcamp). 

And last but not least, BoBo rocked the stage and closed the show with quite the poise and a memorable performance. If there’s one person that knows how to work in silence, it’s this guy right here. Aside from his friends joining him on stage and supporting his every move, what I loved most about BoBo’s set is the tribute he paid to his mom and friends. We haven’t seen a performer move a crowd quite like BoBo did, and it’s that exact energy that Chicago’s Best Day Party loves. 

I would like to reiterate LP’s point during his designated monthly speech, that SICSundays has never experienced an altercation or fight. While this should be the norm, on behalf of the group, we truly appreciate all of our guests and artists that come out each month and as my dad would say, “leave the rift raft and foolishness at home.” 

Join us on Easter Sunday for a Pharrell tribute DJ set and of course, new performers! 

Photography by: J. Nicole Smith 

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SICSundays Closes Out Q1 of 2017

The February edition of SICSundays closed out with a celebration of Black History Month, a tribute to Dr. Dre, and introduced a few new headliners to our roster. This show also presented a number of opportunities for hosts and artists alike to showcase their talents, in lieu of our regular entities. 

When you bring a group of entrepreneurs and creatives together to celebrate music, you get a collective of unique backgrounds and open the space to showcase new ideas. Featured artist Dr. Dre is representative of this movement, and reminds us that being talented across the board contributes to both success and accumulating greater knowledge. 

Hosts SharmonJarmon! and LP Da Assassin took a step back at this show, allowing Blk Soldier to introduce the artists and create a different flow for the show. Coming from WGCI and personal experience, Blk Soldier exceeded everyone’s expectations and smoothly directed the show, creating a different vibe that set this month apart from others.

Blk Soldier quickly got into the emcee groove and displayed a great connection to the audience, steadily creating a sense of belonging, thanks to his experience with hosting parties, Greek events, and private events. Although this was his first time attending SICSundays, Blk Soldier considered this opportunity both a privilege and the perfect time to learn more about the SICSundays collective:

“The order of the show felt natural and it was easy for everyone to have fun and keep the show going. It definitely feels like everyone has been working together for a long time, and you guys all rock together.” -Blk Soldier

It was this feedback in particular that reinforced the bond and structure of SICSundays: everyone works together & everyone learns.

Emcee Gorillv introduced our new performers and set the tone for the freestyle battles and cypher, with a “come as you are” ambiance that started a conversation:

“The cypher took an unexpected turn and transitioned into a surprise battle, which allowed a few old and new femcees to step up to the stage. It was pretty cool.” - Gorillv 

P1 deejayed on behalf of Kwiet Storm, and brought the true Chicago Day Party vibe to the venue. His first hour consisted of playing his favorite tunes by Dr. Dre, as well as some old school West Coast hip hop and rap. DJ Slugo and DJ Flash vibed all the way out and P1 made sure to play a Chicago set, including one of our favorite genres, house. Between Brujie Badd and Skee Franchise’s sets, the entire room was dancing and completely in the moment. The classic “Pop Out” (Katie Got Bandz) added to the fun and contributed to the overall vibe of the night. 

DJ Mos Precious participated in the cypher alongside Candace (an iHeartRadio producer) continuing the “come one, come all” concept for attendees and artists to participate. Overall, this portion of the cyper presented a strong and powerful group of ladies in a familiar setting, or a “win-win situation,” according to Mos Precious. 

Viper The Kane performed at our February show, after a 4-year performance hiatus, post-injury. He was also in attendance at our October show and the Murphy Lee concert in December. As someone who considers himself able to read a crowd’s energy, Viper enjoyed the audience and felt like he was back in his element. With a “lyrics are everything” mentality and true passion for hip hop, Viper likes to keep fans (and friends) guessing, by writing about a variety of topics and putting some of that energy into his label, Dice Records. Viper is also known for his heavy wordplay and labels himself as an independent and underground artist. 

Six ALI also performed a set, followed by positive feedback and gained appreciation for the other performers, and everyone involved in putting the show together. ALI’s friend DJ Raydio Raheim sparked his interest in performing at the show, and here’s what he had to say about his experience:

“I feel SICSundays is heading in the right direction, seeing as how all the artists are talented. The blending of the crowd was cool because it created a balanced reaction from the audience.” - Six ALI

Aspiring models Hailey (R in photo below) and Keeks (L in photo below) worked the room throughout the performance, interacting with old and new faces in an effort to spread awareness about the SICSundays entity, inviting newcomers to network and join us at future shows. 

“The one thing I love about SICSundays is seeing the same faces come out every month to show love. There are always new faces, too, which makes it a great environment for everyone to network. Everybody has had contagious energy and the music is always amazing, but the people are the reason I place this event above and beyond any other show that I’ve attended in Chicago.” - Hailey L. 

As we close out the first quarter of 2017, the SICSundays crew is excited to keep bringing in new faces, while contributing to the success of those currently involved in making each show better (and more interactive) than the last. Join us on Sunday, March 19, to close out St. Patty’s Day weekend with performances by Poetiq, Trice Da Artist, Bobo, Ramoon, Mos Precious, P1, LP Da Assassin & more! 

Photos by: J. Nicole Smith 

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Photo: https://twitter.com/Stillagroup

Prince and The Revolution 

From the When Doves Cry video/album poster shoot. 

Larry Williams Photography

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To All The Ladies In The Place with Style & Grace: SICSundays presents ‘Ladies First’

“I just want women to always feel in control. Because we’re capable. We’re so capable.” -Nicki Minaj

SICSundays opened 2017 with their 17th show, entitled “Ladies First,” which opened doors and presented a new opportunity for the performers of the monthly showcase, also referred to as “Chicago’s Best Day Party.” 

The January edition of SICSundays not only reintroduced us to some of Chicago’s most talented female vocalists, but also created a new platform for celebrating dance, modeling, band collectives, in addition to a spin on genres like spoken word, the blues, hip hop, soul, and of course, rap.

The Ladies First show also celebrated the laid back and engaged formats of DJ Mos Precious and Blok Club DJs Silkee and Lady Dice, giving Kwiet Storm and Big Tank a break for the evening. Although he wasn’t on the turntables, P1 named Big Tank the official cocktail server for the evening, and he owned it. 

P1 opened the show by paying homage to the essence of this month’s theme of celebrating women, giving individual shout outs to some of the key players of SICSundays. Here, you have vocalists and host, Sharmon Jarmon and Tan (who was celebrating her birthday!), photographer J. Nicole Smith, DJ Mos Precious, Communication Support Lead, Shartia Marie, and myself, as the monthly event blogger.

DJ Mos Precious started the show off by embracing her femininity with high energy, and in my opinion, one of her best performances at SICSundays. Sharing a few of her experiences of being in the industry for four years was both humbling and inspiring. Mos Precious performed “On One” and “Humble Yourself,” which was written after taking a personal hiatus. This song is a direct correlation to [her] life as a performer, and she reminds all of us to stay grounded and to do the right thing.

Jurisdiction da Necessity performed next, and had me feeling like I was cruising in Los Angeles back in the 90s, in a pair of gold hoops with red lipstick. The first half of her set was performed solo, and she was later accompanied by her male counterpart, which added some depth and bass to the set. Jurisdiction’s R&B vocals combined with a reggae sample, her “anti-foolishness” demeanor and lyrics allowed the audience to witness her style and hear her story, clear-cut and authentic. 

Although she was sick, Sharmon Jarmon pushed through like a champ and provided us with a sensual, upbeat performance that showcased both her individual style and story, through raw emotion, movement and lyrics. Sharmon was accompanied by live drummer Paris J’Mal and later brought Shartia, on stage, a perfect example of two women supporting each other and having fun in their element(s). What I admire most about Sharmon is her wardrobe selection: it’s always a combination of the decades, with bold accessories, big [red] hair, and an unapologetic shade of lipstick. She has the ability to encourage crowd interaction, and even more noteworthy, Sharmon can sing a cover to a song and make it sound like her own.

Side note: During Sharmon’s set, I caught a glimpse of DJ Mos Precious smiling from ear to ear [and turnt] behind the DJ booth.

Toine came ready to perform, representing Chicago’s south side and blessing us with a spoken word, rap and R&B mashup. Or, what Kwiet Storm referred to as, “a Jill Scott thing.” Although her change of pace varied from song to song, Toine was honest, quirky, and had a few stories to share. Referring to herself as a “storyteller,” it was not only her lyrics that caught my attention but also the beats that she sampled. Each bar was specific, detail-oriented, and captured the essence of drama. “Data Plans” told the tale of love, discretion, and all of the inquiries in between living and learning. 

Ya Yah Townsend set the bar and took the cake for most innovative and compelling set of the show. From her mermaid leotard (and fishnet tights), to her soulful vocals mixed in with a style of music that I refer to as “blues for the new generations,” and the confidence displayed during her Acapella performance. I was completely blown away. Ya Yah switched it up with a cover to Crystal Waters’ “Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless,” and included a dance segment with two male dancers, which really got the crowd engaged.

Bianca Shaw followed Ya Yah’s performance with her band, The Sound Attack (featuring an acoustic guitar, bassist, and drummer!), and was my second favorite set. She opened her slot with a cover of Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie,” almost bringing a tear to my eye. Providing concert-level quality of percussion, bass, vocals, and the band’s overall movement created a unique presence for the vibe of SICSundays. Bianca’s image went from Dangerously In Love to Roman’s Revenge, thanks to her small frame, noted stage presence, and evident passion for embracing her favorite genres of music. From “Bipolar,” which featured Bianca rapping, to “Blues Brother,” which sounded like background music from a burlesque show (with a dose of bass), and her cover of The Roots ft. Erykah Badu’s “You Got Me,” this lady and The Sound Attack didn’t come to play games. 

The moment Resse P entered the building, I knew that she had a purpose beyond performing her set when she started schooling the audience and shedding light on issues within the Black community. Resse placed an emphasis on changing the norm and setting higher standards for ourselves. The combination of her jazz and rap sonic was the perfect precedent for creating a balance between the good and the bad, living our lives as better men and women, and most importantly, acknowledging one’s own self-worth and value. Her intro to Young M.A.’s “OOOUUU” and the inclusion of drummer and vocalist Morgan Mimosa was the ending needed to conclude the first edition of SICSundays: Ladies First. 

Morgan Mimosa officially closed out the show with a few tracks from her album Sex & The City, which features some solid beats and clear, brutally honest punchlines. I was already intrigued by the fact that she played the drums, but even more impressed by her performance capability, stage presences, outfit of choice, and dance moves. 

We live in a male-dominated world and even more so in the entertainment and music industry. Female performers now have so many creative outlets and business opportunities to take advantage of, and it all starts with the belief in our own dreams, and supporting each other. That is not to discredit the male support that we have, because at the end of the day, we all need each other. 

It all starts with one, and the idea of this show was collaborated on by Sharmon, P1, DJ Mos Precious, and LP. LP always pushes performers to leave a lasting impression, while making sure that each artist on the lineup receives the due and proper recognition. 

A special ‘thank you’ to all of this month’s performers! Join us next month on February 19...with a surprise theme! 

Watermarked photos CC: J. Nicole Smith 

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Hailing from Gary, IN, F.Y.T. (Family You Trust) crossed state lines to come to Chicago and round up their starting line up. 2KDrae and Tank LuCas are merging their talents with The Island Recording Studio artists Corey Olos & Nyaa Marie.

Tank LuCas a.K.a. YungMigos Da Don brings the originality of a hook you can’t help but vibe to. 2KDrae wastes no time showing off his impeccable flow, as well as his lyricism and creativity.

From Chicago, there’s the lovely Nyaa Marie, with vocals that have the entire city singing along. In addition to Corey Olos, who brings a smooth, hip hop rhythm and flawless R&B vocals to the track. This looks like a recipe for success.

From R&B vocals, to rap, and an added dose of harmony, “Wavy” features just the right flow and precise visuals to spark the interest of a new crowd.

Whether you personally know these four individuals or not, it doesn’t take a genius to recognize a great time with a family-like bond.

CREDITS: Video directed by OLUBeats  Shot on the 59th floor of the luxurious Marina City Complex, in downtown Chicago. 

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SICSundays Holiday Bash & Murphy Lee Concert!

Just when I thought I was getting old, I was reminded of how musically “lit” my early teenage years were, and just how good music makes you feel. 

For the last showcase of 2016, SICSundays brought us new talent, a celebrity performance, a diverse crowd (both local and outside of Chicago), weather in the negatives, and a new drink concoction called the “SIC Sipper Remix.”

I’ve witnessed an increase in attendance, audience reach, and overall organization during my share of SICSundays showcases. Although December is one of the busiest months of the year, this show encouraged SICSundays to rise to the occasion in terms in diversity and range in musical styles. One of my favorite sights was seeing everyone (yes, everyone) LIVE on Facebook and making a conscious effort to introduce themselves to someone they weren’t already acquainted with. 

The cold didn’t stop newcomers from checking out Chicago’s Best Day Party, and it certainly brought together a few old faces and SICSundays supporters. MC Gorillv has officially been named the host of the SICSundays Cypher, which has been a hit at the last few events and created a stronger sense of community between performers, supporters/newcomers, and the SICSundays crew.

I would also like to point out the distance traveled for some of this month’s performers, like Chris Quality (Richmond, CA), Cicely O’Kain (Denver), and of course, Murphy Lee, from St. Louis and Atlanta. Returning performers included P1, LP, Dat Boy Hot, Miistro Freeyo, and RA Cesar, representing Little Village.

Chris Quality brought a new realm of energy to the SICSundays stage and his conversational rap style was both harmonic and concise. I wouldn’t expect anything less from a humble soul from California, and I commend him for braving the cold with just a peacoat, TImbs, and an Oakland A’s cap. 

Cicely O’Kain was our only female performer this month, and I was completely blown away by her vocal range, stage presence, and fashion sense. She performed with her longtime friend and supporter, Sonja, and the two provided the audience with an 80s/soul/rock vibe, which is the epitome of “Black Girls Rock(ing).” Cicely describes her style as “music that makes you feel,” as she tries to break the double standards and false representation of being a woman in the music industry. Might I add, Cicely just released an EDM project and added to our interview, “No one is an island, you have to stay true.” 

Another note to attribute wrapping up year one of SICSundays is the continuous improvement among performers and the flow of each show. It’s easy to judge the success of something on the surface, but after countless discussions with different individuals on the team, it is safe to say that everything put into these shows is more than what meets the eye. 

I pulled 3Tre aside after his set to compliment his “comeback” and increased confidence found from within. His appreciation and dedication to SICSundays never goes unnoticed and Tre embodies the “team player” spirit, indefinitely. 

This was my first time seeing Miistro Freeyo perform, joining us from St. Louis. Circling back to the variety at each SICSundays event, Miistro combined his skills on the keyboard with rap vocals providing what us Chicagoans know and love as a “live set.” While traveling to NYC and other major cities, Miistro continues to play his cards right and brought us a mix of old and new hip hop with a “free your mind mentality that is evolving with the versatility of his talent. Miistro started playing at the age of 3, and patiently eased his way into producing as the industry started to evolve. His crowd interaction was untouched and his humble presence set the tone for the entire set. 

Naturally, Murphy Lee stole the show and brought out everyone’s inner “What The Hook Gon’ Be?” Lee inhibited an unexpected sense of humor and shared a few gems [knowledge] that helped me grasp just how much the music industry has both changed and remained the same, thanks to technology, social media, and influx of creative outlets.

L to R: Shaneika, Murphy Lee & Kendra C. 

Murphy Lee views his children as the inspiration to keep an open mind and continue writing/making music. His new album Back to Basics was released in mid-August while Lee has been back and forth between Atlanta and St. Louis. 

“The industry is a never-ending game and I wish biting was illegal. Thanks to my fans, I live in an independent world. Having to adjust over the last decade as an artist has been a creative challenge and a journey toward knowledge of self.”

Murphy Lee commented at the end of his performance that it felt like he had just performed in front of 5,000 fans, which is exactly the vibe and energy that SICSundays has created and maintained over the past year.

Join us as we welcome the New Year, with an all-female lineup, at SICSundays on January 15, 2017! 

Watermarked photos CC: J. Nicole Smith

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High End Junkie Lip Synch Battle & Ugly Sweater Party

High End Junkie closed out 2016 with yet another memorable event, and what better theme than an Ugly Sweater Party? In collaboration with Building Bridges Arts, Power 92, and auction vendors around the Chicagoland area, High End Junkie brought together the best of the best talent and pure-hearted individuals that have supported the HEJ brand and movement since day one. Not only was this event a unique choice of themes, the lip synch battle was indeed a success, on top of a new direction of entertainment for High End Junkie to present to a growing audience.

“The plan is to always incorporate art and community into every event by connecting the dots. I never wanted to just print t-shirts, I wanted to create art, and in doing so, also feed the artist/creative community: a hub for networking and consistent exposure for new brands.” -Q. Hudson (Creative Director & High End Junkie Visual Artist) 

Hosted at Baseline, the event itself drew in a crowd of 150 or so bodies throughout the night, creating a fun and nostalgic ambiance on a Friday night during the peak of a Chicago winter snowstorm. 

From a personal observation, every Ugly Sweater Party that I attend gets better and more creative, but what else was I expecting at an HEJ event featuring some of Chicago’s most stylish [and creatively-diverse] residents. 

Prior to the start of the lip synch battle, comedian Just Nesh provided us with a few [brutally honest] laughs, about everything from the upcoming holidays to real-life happy moments. Power 92 hosts joined in on the fun and introduced Q’s event resident DJ Hot Rod. 

“What is Building Bridges Arts,” you may ask? Building Bridges Arts is a new program in Chicago that provides multifaceted programs for youth ages 13-19 in music, media arts, and finance.

The clearest connection between both brands is the utilization and importance of blessing others by acknowledging resources and inspiring the pursuit of creative outlets through entrepreneurship.

“I’ve come to realize that my ‘happy place’ is being a blessing to others and our youth. Life is an experience. A lot of black parents don’t encourage hobbies and as a creative [and parent of 3] I feel it is my obligation to create the opportunities for these kids to unlock their minds and embrace their passions.” -Nicole Bridges (Founder of Building Bridges)

Something I’d like to point out in regards to High End Junkie events offering exposure to other brands and markets, is the way in which both the lip synch battle and silent auction created a sense of community and place for learning:

Age/demographic diversity

Battle contestants showcasing their performance abilities

A continued sense of community and networking for all attendees 

Not only did the battle turn into a dance party, infused with the one-of-a-kind scent of jerk tacos, the holiday spirit was also fully alive and present. 

The item of the night was the High End Junkie canvas mouth-guard, which everyone needs to go ahead and purchase now that winter has officially arrived:

cc: @ChrisCuban (IG)

cc: @soulfullyfresh (IG)

KC: What resources (aside from material things/goods) do you think at-risk teens need the most?

QH: Love, support, and a listening ear. In today’s world, a lot of times at-risk teens get overlooked. That’s essentially why I wanted to focus this year’s [and future] campaigns on the youth...we really need to reach ages 13-24. We, as artists and entertainers, have to kick off the dialogue and make topics like philanthropy and doing the right thing just as pertinent as the new Gucci sneaks. We are responsible for a lot more than just ourselves.

All proceeds from the event have been donated to 38 teens in the Teen Living Program in an effort to implement the idea of “creating your own lane.” 

The silent auction proceeds collectively raised almost $500, granting bid winners with the following prizes:

One overnight stay at The Godfrey Hotel ($350 value)

Custom handcrafted High End Junkie denim jacket ($350 value)

Full beauty makeover from The Sweet Life Chicago ($400 value)

16x16 custom Biggie Smalls print from artist P. Scott ($100 value)

Spa Membership & Massage from Lax Energy Worx ($100 value)

The lip synch battle winners were given the option to choose from a set of tickets to 3 different concerts, including a New Year’s Eve comedy show, sponsored by Power 92. GIfting for the youth was sponsored by DTLR. 

Both High End Junkie and Building Bridges Arts will host a holiday dinner and deliver the gifts to the youth on Wednesday, December 21, at their residence on 38th and Indiana.

Check out High End Junkie for new releases and upcoming pop-up details. A HUGE ‘thank you’ to everyone who participated, donated, and for all of your positive vibes and continued support. 

#GoodAddictionsOnly

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“The tension of it all, the wash of emotion that is numbing...yet, time still clicks by and you are basically just a witness to yourself.” -Death Juke on ‘Airport Exits’ 

“Death Juke,” better known as Brian T. Matos, released his first studio album introducing us to his distinctive method of merging sound, aesthetics, and the art of storytelling while honing in on his innocent vulnerability. As both a producer and musician, Death Juke’s life experiences and love for sonics have pushed him both to perform and create outside of his comfort zone.

The ten-track project is a multi-layer instrumental narrative that represents “specific and esoteric feelings” that Death Juke experienced while producing each song. Specifically referring to heartbreak and growing pains, “Airport Exits” was beyond relatable for me. 

Also reflecting on the death of his dear friend Mikal just a year ago, Brian tapped into his emotions and continuously strives to push the bar:

“The only way to be happy is to make others happy. The only way to fulfill your true purpose in this life is the learn from all your mistakes and project that information to others and enrich their lives.” (quote by Mikal that hangs directly above Brian in the studio)

After writing, recording, and mixing his second project for two years (and completing it before its release on August 31, 2016), Brian’s laptop crashed. Fortunately, all of his files were recovered, and the unfortunate mishap motivated Death Juke to “build a beast of a computer,” as an investment. Anyone that knows Brian personally would agree that his work [and music] is his world. Brian also works full-time as a special needs instructor. 

“Sometimes the world does things we can’t account for.” -Brian, to his students after Trump won the election

Brian often makes references that bridge the gap between his love life and personal relationship with his girlfriend (MPC), Nadia. Understanding that the key to a successful relationship is for both parties to know themselves individually, and to get comfortable with being alone. 

Even as a respected introvert, Death Juke has had the chance to perform the album and other unreleased tracks, live. With the support of friends and family, Brian has performed at the Cafe Mustache showcase, Open Beats, hosted by Fess Grandiose.

Death Juke’s use of soul, hip hop, alternative, and electronic synchronization illustrates the story of what has molded him into a producer, setting the standard for a new wave of music. It is [his] passion (and patience) that brought A Space Age Love Story to life and allowed him to reveal another layer of himself. 

Death Juke’s favorite song on the album is “Juke”, which is inspired by the sonic style of Burial. Death Juke describes the drum sample as ‘out of the ordinary’ and ‘deceptively simple.’ The build and transition represent his abstract sound and courage to merge different genres with a blend of Chicago’s trend of, well, juking. 

“#14″ is Death Juke’s second favorite song from the album, which is solely based on an inside joke between he and his friend Lamon.

A Man and His MPC: A Space Age Love Story is both before and after its time, thanks to Death Juke’s melodically-diverse range of sound and storyline content. If you’ve ever been in love, heartbroken, or if you have a soft spot in your heart for instrumentals, this project has your name written all over it. It’s not every day that we hear music that doesn’t sound like something we have already listened to. 

Check out the full project, here: https://soundcloud.com/brian-t-matos/sets/a-man-and-his-mpc-a-space-age-love-story

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TroyBoy Drops Visual For “The Range” from Blabbermouth EP

“The Range” is the second single to drop from TroyBoy’s new album, Blabbermouth, which was released mid-October. Crystal clear visuals and the metaphor of a studio (shooting range) storyline were created to be “open to the viewer’s interpretation,” in addition to reminding us that life itself is marked by [personal] growth and challenges. 

The opening scene depicts a day in the life of a 20-something Chicagoan embracing deep and long-lasting friendships and business relationships, on top of the pressures caused by what our generation refers to as “adulting.” What we are also left to decipher is the image of what appears to be an alter ego, a figment of the past, thoughts rooted from within, and potentially the “blabbermouth” [or telltale] version of Troy.

Lyrics to “The Range” highlight metaphors referencing topics alternating between avoiding trouble, staying focused, embracing self-awareness, and in a nutshell, leveling up. The tone of this track is set by a sultry, 90s-felt hip hop and jazz-infused sound, which briefly walks us into Troy’s world as a young adult and veteran artist.

“The Range” was produced by Montana Macks (visuals by Kiefer Szumlas) with the signature “mafia” vibe that connects the ambience of the dinner meeting that took place at The Charcoal Oven. 

The image and idea of a shooting range represents Troy exposing himself while remaining cognizant of his surroundings and what is to come. “The Range” plays on the notion that our inner self does to some effect play a role in personal development and measuring success in terms of living fruitfully. 

Check out (and download!) the full Blabbermouth project here: https://soundcloud.com/troy-boy-195255234

[call-the-press-blog]

SICSundays November Edition: LP Da Assassin’s Birthday Bash!

As the SICSundays tribe prepares to close out 2016, November’s showcase not only helped celebrate the Born Day of host LP Da Assassin, but this event also brought together old and new faces from Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, in addition to a diverse range of content, sound, and overall support.

Each month, SICSundays represents a new theme and presents a story from multiple angles. With unity being one of the focal points of this entity, it was both positive and refreshing to see performers encouraging one another on stage, combined with the support of the audience and acknowledging SICSundays’ following on social media. Hosts LP and Sharmon Jarmon have continued the tradition of showing love to the performers and supporters of SICSundays, through praise by word of mouth, performance slots, and cypher inclusions.

November is a time of reflection and showing appreciation, and the 50 Cent tribute by DJ Kwiet Storm took me back to my middle school days of horrible fashion, vibing at the skating rink, and forming a new love for rap that wasn’t quite like old school hip hop. With a handful of Eminem and A Tribe Called Quest samples, and his scratch over “Check the Rhime” that was really caught my attention, it was the message of embracing life and opening up to others that made this month’s gathering a unique birthday celebration and musical showcase.

The love between the SICSundays family is undeniably rare and one of the reasons that all parties involved have continued to support one another down the path of success. LP shared the story of when he and DJ Mos Precious first met (in St. Louis), followed by the duo performing “Running”, a tribute to her femcee sister Rain G. The story of LP and Mos Precious’ meeting by fate (”on lunch break”) is a perfect example of how easily music and business mindsets bring individuals together. the song is a tribute to a femcee sister of mines by the name of Rain G. a song lil sis and me reunited to create

As for loyalty and what some may refer to as “sportsmanship”, the one and only Gorillv hosted part of the show and freestyled to a sample of “This Is Why I’m Hot,” which was entertaining, engaging, and energetic. Gorillv is always a part of SICSundays, bringing a smile and the support of his friends and other musicians. LP’s acknowledgement his team player attitude set the tone for the night and the audience was receptive.

KeesThePriest returned to the SICSundays stage after blessing us with a spiritually lit performance in June, and this time he brought an even bigger crew to join the fun. Opening his set with another prayer, Kees performed “Jesus Curry” (requested by LP), “My Story” (in which he added a second verse), and lastly “Halloween”, which is a Dr. Martin Luther King tribute to the Black Lives Matter movement. Kees’ placement of content is always strategic, politically-driven, and it was evident that the supporters he brought shared a genuine interest in what SICSundays means to those involved.

Con-cept (a Chicago native) traveled from Indiana to “turn up with his boy on his birthday”, and that is indeed what took place. Reminding me of a young Giancarlo Esposito (School Daze, The Usual Suspects, Fresh & Mo’ Better Blues), Con-cept was smooth with a clean flow and lots (LOTS) of bass. With the blend of sounds and production styles, it was easy to keep up with his performance, and the consistency of his crowd interaction was notable.

NeilGang’s duo performance included DJTrouble773, who rose to the occasion and helped illustrate the lyrics on stage. The dynamic of the set reminded me of Bryson Tiller’s sound, as a collab. From love and the game, to sociopolitical issues that we are forced to acknowledge daily, NeilGang put the spin on speaking creatively through fashion and music.

According to LP, #AllStreamsMatter, is the perfect hashtag for SICSundays and all of the production from each contributor. The last few shows have featured “new beginnings” in some aspects for SICSundays, and this month featured a new panoramic camera at Refuge that captures the entire stage as well as the space designated for attendees.

During times like this, it is so very important to be part of a cause, and simultaneously embrace the potential to create your own. The support invested both inside and outside of the SICSunday’s collective is a constant reminder that growth is both a requirement and given right to those who are able and willing to put in the work. No only did we come together this month to celebrate LP’s birthday, but everyone put in even more of an effort to socialize, exchange information, and maintain the family-like environment with a conscious execution.

Join us for next month’s showcase, on Sunday, December 18, with special guest MURPHY LEE for his birthday celebration!

All watermarked photos are copywritten & courtesy of J. Nichole Smith.

[call-the-press-blog]

SICSundays October Edition

And, we’re back! The October edition of SICSunday’s was all about unity, teamwork, and rightfully so, served as a tribute to one of the best rappers in the game, Fabolous.

Hosts DJ Mos Precious, P1, Sharmon Jarmon, and LP Da Assassin combined their own talents with those of artists from St. Louis and of course, Chicago. With a red light setting and a unique spin on the 1s and 2s, this showcase was not only a stepping stone for some artists, but ended up being a night of pure fun and a reminder of the fruits of everyone’s labor coming to life. 

P1 opened the show with a freestyle and homage to finding common ground with both artists and friends alike. Always sporting a smile and taking the time to speak to all attendees, P1 shared his appreciation for the work and dedication that was put into his latest project Vintage Phe. Sharmon Jarmon also gave us a sample of “Sober”, which is on her new album The Sunflower Series. 

I would also like to give a shout out to whoever came up with the SIC Sipper recipe. SICSunday’s now has an official drink, which is a new take on the famous rum punch. 

DJ Mos Precious was the glue to this show and she showcased a bit of her DJing talents alongside DJ Kwiet Storm and Gorillv. With a work ethic that speaks for itself and being conscious of her own humiliy, Mos Precious performed “Humble Yourself”, which highlights keeping your eyes on the prize and proving haters wrong. With a horn cover and jazz ensemble as background music, DJ Mos Precious reminded us that making moves as a female performer (and entrepreneur) comes from staying true to oneself and truly making an impact.

Marv Levar is new to the SICSunday’s stage, and came with Kanye-like beats and Outkast/Flo Rida-infused lyrics. His animated performance was both politically-driven and highlighted the key components of fame: hate, greed, love, and pride.

DJ Kwiet Storm made his appearance quietly in between sets and started spinning right before PButta blessed the stage. With a flow to the Black Community and losing his uncle to gun violence, PButta’s flow reminded me of the lyrical/poetic side of Tupac. 

Metane (St. Louis) took the cake for this show, in my opinion. Not only was he fun to watch perform, but his energy and presence was that of a kindred spirit and someone determined to reach new heights. Metane currently lives in Orlando and is part of the Animal House collective. With his second tour date kicking off in Chicago, the SICSunday’s crowd was not only receptive, but also joined him in his stepping segment cover of A Tribe Called Quest’s “Can I Kick It?” Metane also wore the Phantom mask from Phantom of the Opera on the side of his head, as a prop. 

Tyshawn put on the for younger crowd with a vibrant chambray on chambray ensemble, persistent movement, and excellent stage presence. His set went from catcalling to a turn up, all in the motion of his calm nature. What I enjoyed most about Tyshawan’s performance were both his transitions and brief displays of emotions, which seemed fitting for his lyrical content. 

SICSunday’s also welcome Polar Bear, whose performance used props, sound clips, and my favorite, the classic iPhone ringtone. This Polar Bear is the same Polar Bear that made “That Ain’t No Money” with the one and only, Gucci Mane. 

Flaw was the last act to perform, and he left me feeling like I was leaving a Drake show. His lyrics were political, in regard to the importance of voting, and he made reference to old relationships from the past. Flaw brought a friend on stage for support, but overall he was turnt.com

The closing cypher was the best part of this show, in my opinion. Not only did it bring all performers together on stage, but it also allowed some of the newer acts to showcase their talent by way of freestyle.

Join us at the NEXT SICSunday’s showcase on November 20th for LP’s birthday celebration! 

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Troy Boy Releases ‘Blabbermouth’ from Upcoming EP

October marks the beginning of the final quarter of 2016, and Troy Boy’s got some great news...

...Blabbermouth the EP is complete and will have you vibing on the edge of your seat. WIth eight brand new tracks and a listening party just one week away, it’s time to tune in and listen to what Troy has to say.

The project was accompanied by sounds from montata Macks and Blabbermouth illustrates scenarios of adulting, self-awareness, climbing the career ladder, friendship, and loyalty...and the remainder of the project is left for your interpretation. 

Join us next Friday at HQ for the Blabbermouth listening party. Check out visual art by Dan Wilcop and Zach Bartz, grab a few brews, and prepare yourself for a night of fun vibes and networking. 

When: Friday, October 14th Where: HQ  Time: 8pm Cover: $10 

This is Troy Boy’s second solo project, so come out, support your boy, and bring some friends! 

Check out the single ‘Blabbermouth’ before the album drops! 

[call-the-press-blog]

SICSundays September Edition: P1′s Bday Bash!

With one year under the SICSunday’s showcase belt, there is something to be said about the undeniable support and continued growth of “Chicago’s Best Day Party,” and the individual success of all parties involved. September’s featured artist was Ludacris. Hos P1 also celebrated his birthday along with the launch of his new website and latest project, VintagePhe. This month’s headliner’s included returning performers and a few new artists, noting Lupe Fiasco’s “favorite rapper”, Mickey Stackz. SICSunday’s host LP Da Assassin opened the show with a prayer for triumph, positive energy, and for attendees to capitalize on the many networking opportunities available nearby.

While this is my third time covering a SICSunday’s show, I would be lying if I said this wasn’t my favorite show to witness. There was a very unique sense of energy at this showcase and the crowd interaction residually increased as the party progressed. With many acts performing solo, there were also a number of artists who joined one another on stage, which positively contributed to the fun.

As homage to celebrating another year of life, P1 opened the show with BFM performing his single “Stole My Bike,” and later closed out with Gorillv to “Venues & Vaginas.” If the song title has you scratching your head, you shouldn’t be. The validity in the song’s lyrics is a testament to certain industry norms, but mostly, it was written for your own entertainment. P1′s infectious smile makes his flow that much more convincing, and to be quite frank, there is no doubt that he truly loves performing and turning his sets into a party.

I was happy to see AM Early Morning (aKa Fonz) when I walked into Refuge and started gathering my notes to prep for the show. AM is a well-known artist throughout the Midwest, and one of those individuals the world just isn’t quite ready for. Fonz is never afraid to show out: his energy is consistent and I learning something new about his story with each performance. This time, I learned that his stage name is a play on the AM/PM gas station franchise. Fonz is always working and performing at different venues, blessing attendees with a variety of old and new projects.

Once again, the SICSunday’s family is an example of friends supporting one another in a shared space. Gorillv also joined AM for a brief cover. With his own album Heightz in the works, the premise of this project is “achieving goals with a spin on classic hip hop and production of artists, all told in a storylike tone.” “Venues & Vaginas” is included on the project, and my favorite line from Gorillv’s set was, “Everybody’s tryna make money, there’s a long line.”  

D2G returned to perform a few fan favorites, including his infamous cover of “Freedom”, which featured an intro of Tomi Lahren’s controversial “opinion” snippet taken from FOX News. I personally loved it, and can say that it was a tasteful and strategic placement. D2G is that guy who knows everyone in the city and always has something positive to speak on. He also performed part of “Hydroplanin” (sounding like T.I.), which features Reflective Music’s Ashley Laschelle and Isaiah Jones. Although D2G performed solo, the energy still came off as if they were all on stage together. His flow and confidence remind of Jeezy’s, yet his heart and love for his craft as an artist keep him ground. D2G’s flow is continuous, precise, and effortlessly draws you in craving more. 

Toward the second half of the show, the energy of the crowd seemed to turn up just a notch...and very quickly. Solo acts turned into duets, and later into a cypher. The drinks were flowing, and a variety of personalities were on display. Something that I found particularly DOPE was when DJ Kwiet Storm had to start wrapping up his set to head to another engagement, and DJ Big Tank Beats came in and continued the show. If I hadn’t know that Kwiet Storm had to leave early, I probably wouldn’t have even noticed the change in DJs. It was executed quietly, efficiently, and thanks to the performers and excitement from the crowd, the show went on as if this had all ben rehearsed. 

Lord Reign’s PANDA shirt caught my eye right away, and he performed confidently as if he was in the comfort of his own home. Noticing that his eyes were closed during most of his set, I got the vibe that he has been performing for so long that he could rap in his sleep. Although the room went silent when he prompted the crowd to respond to his inquiry for “beautiful ladies”, I couldn’t help but notice AM’s facial expression to the right of me as the rest of the room began to laugh. 

[ disclaimer: there were plenty of beautiful women in the crowd. ]

Abstrak Mind is a familiar face and name to me, and it was a treat to see him perform after such a long time. We sat down briefly before the show and he shared the news of his upcoming album Colorful Vibration, which is scheduled to drop in December. Finding balance between creative and strategic placement, engaging with fans, and maximizing potential and business opportunities is what this project [and Abstrak] is all about. With a different setting and mindset from the past, Abstrak’s performance was laid-back, sentimental, and a distinctive addition to this month’s SICSunday’s event. His calm and collected nature is notable and is to be credited for his talent and love for music.

The cypher that followed included Jigsaww92, Penn Bannekar, BFM, Mickey Factz, 3Tre, and of course, an appearance by LP. What initially caught my attention was Jigsaww’s sample of Usher’s “Nice & Slow” - talk about nostalgia and quickly transitioning to the highlight of the party. Both Penn and 3Tre performed alongside Mickey Stackz, with Mickey providing us with a heartfelt freestyle relating to the Black Lives Matter movement. His performance also paid homage to the struggles associated with being Black in America. 

With a new season approaching and 2016 coming to an end, the SICSunday’s crew continues to provide performers and their families with a platform to not only showcase their own talent, but a space to support, collaborate, and understand the concept of success in numbers. 

Catch next month’s showcase on SUNDAY, October 16!