StayOnTheGo.com entertainment section is a resource of events and entertainers in the Nashville community. The site is the place to go in when making plans for any activity in Nashville. This section also offers a place to be entertained with hip, witty and intellectual perspectives on the differing social topics. For questions or comments about this section send email to entertainment@stayonthego.com
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The Usual Suspects - Shawntaz 'Taz' Crawford
Friday, March 19, 2010
Shawntaz Crawford
Stay on the Go Magazine
Stay on the Go Network
Go Marketing Company
Shawntaz Crawford has produced over 500 events in Nashville over the course of 10 years as and event planner and promoter. Creating such entertainment brands: Tasty Tuesdays, Status Saturdays, Friday Night Lights, LUXE Fridays, Martini Mondays just to name a few.
Mr. Crawford as played an integral role in moving the entertainment industry forward. Currently, Shawntaz publishes Stay on the Go magazine, a publication designed to highlight African Americans in Nashville and is the Managing Partner of the Go Marketing Company.
Go Marketing is a marketing, advertising, promotions and public relations company which specializes in developing marketing solutions that will generate business, strengthen brand loyalty and save you time and energy that can be used to focus on your business. The company has been in business since 2002 and has generated millions of dollars for their clients. Go Marketing has a consumer database of over 23,000 working professionals with an average annual income of $45,000 per year between the ages of 22-50, which gets leveraged to generate business for clients.
Bilal Simmons
Encore Events Management President
Stay on the Go
Bilal Simmons, of Milwaukee, WI, came to Nashville, TN in December 2007 to attend Tennessee State University. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree Concentration in Sociology in December 2009.
Bilal started Encore Events Management (Encore) to provide an upscale social setting for young professionals of which Nashville was lacking.
Through Encore, the entertainment division of Stay on the Go, Bilal plans to host and create some of the most entertaining & classy events Nashville has ever seen. 'We don't talk much about what we do here in Nashville, our events and customers say it all. Our goal is to make sure you have such a great time that you come back for more!' - Bilal
Tiffany D. Echols
Encore Events Management, Vice-President Event Heaven by Nelo, Co-Executive Director
Stay on the Go
Hello, my name is Tiffany Echols. I currently attend Middle Tennessee State University where I major in Criminal Justice and minor in Psychology. I am a Greenville, Texas native however I am proud to call myself a Tennessean!
I am the Vice President of Encore Events Management (the entertainment division of Stay on the Go) where it is my pleasure to help bring Nashville's nightlife some of the finest entertainment there is to offer, bar none. Encore Events aims to develop and manage events for those individuals looking for an upscale, diverse environment to socialize, mingle and relax. http://www.encoreeventsmanagement.com/
I am also the Co-Executive Director of Event Heaven by Nelo, home based in Dallas, Texas. Event Heaven by Nelo offers a variety of unique event planning options for those looking to take their event to the next level. The Nashville, TN base of Event Heaven is soon to come, look out for it! http://www.eventsbynelo.com/
My goals when it comes to entertainment are to keep quality above quantity & have people coming back for more! Thank you Nashville for your support.
Manor Productions, Manor Graphix, and Designer House Media
DJ SPADE aka 'Da Mixtape Slanga' was born in Nashville, Tennessee. With over 18 years of experience, DJ SPADE has been a major influence to the urban music movement in Nashville, Tennesse.. DJ SPADE's first taste of djing came at the early age of 13, when he started showing a presence in
local clubs. He later teamed up with DJ Kurious to form a duo that could not be stopped. DJ SPADE is known for his raw energy in clubs and his arsenal of mix cds. His DMS Mix CD Series is a marketing tool that features exclusive songs and freestyles geared toward gaining exposure for artist and corporations. The DMS CDs has been hosted by an array of
national and local artists such as: Big Boi, 8Ball & MJG, Young Dro, Yung La, Boosie & Webbie, Yung Joc, Allstar, Yo Gotti, David Banner, and Grandaddy Souf. DJ SPADE has also ventured to every aspect of the music industry from starting a successful graphic design company (Manor Graphix) to launching a professional CD duplication service ( Designer House Media). His future goals are to help establish Nashville as a major player in the music industry and to thrive as a DJ and business owner.
Gary Whitlow II, aka 'g2' or 'Gary Steven' is a Memphis native that matriculated from Middle Tennessee State University, where he earned his bachelors in Marketing. While at MTSU he was involved in several clubs and later became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, where he served as president in his senior year. He currently is an Account Executive for Careerbuilder.com and resides in Atlanta, Ga.
Gary has an affection for music and was introduced to the nightlife at an early age. His father was a DJ at several local nightclubs in Memphis. After learning the business, he began partnering with local promoters and hosting his own events. Since then he has gone on to promote several events throughout the southeast region. When it comes to nightlife, he is passionate about exposing individuals to new experiences. His personal adage is 'WORK HARD, PLAY HARDER' which is why Gary's most recent focus has been on growing his 's newest event, Taste Maker. Taste Maker is an event geared to young professionals in an ongoing plight for success. The event takes place in some of Nashville's most elite venues.
As for the future, Gary plans to continue building the g2 brand and being a steward of his community.
Derrick Sharp is a 28 year old native of Memphis, TN that relocated to Nashville, TN to attend Middle Tennessee State University. At MTSU, he was introduced to various marketing and promotional companies which engineered him to become a consultant in marketing and business development for the G2 Experience. With nearly 10 years of experience and a great team along his side, Mr. Sharp has helped create a new movement for Nashville's adult night life...Tastemaker. Tastemaker is held every third Friday of the month at very unique and exclusive venues located around Nashville. This event caters to Nashville's young elite professionals that want to mix and mingle in the ambiance of beautiful music and beautiful people. Tastemaker's motto 'New People, New Venues, and New Experiences' Since the introduction of Tastemaker, the G2 brand has captured the attention of many business owners as well as many charitable organizations throughout Nashville.
The G2 Experience plans to continue to expand on the Tastemaker brand as well as create new events for the city.
Contact Info: derricksharp@theg2experience.com
theg2experience.com
tastemakernashville.com
The mission of the Tri-Stage Ebony Network started as a fun project for three friends eight years ago. Today, its mission is to provide the upwardly mobile and urban 'thirtysomething' crowd with consistent, high-quality and original civic, social and networking events that suit their unique tastes and interests.
William E. Arnold, Jr., a native of Memphis, TN holds degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and Tennessee State University. He is currently the Director of Access, Diversity and Equity for the TN Board of Regents and is the marketing man for Tri-Stage.
Aaron Powell is a native of Memphis and is a Tennessee State University graduate in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Also known as DJ Lawbreaker, he provides the distinct sound for all Tri-Stage events.
Spencer Rollins, is a Nashville native. This hometown boy received his BS at Lane College and received an MBA from Tennessee State University. Spencer specializes in bringing the technical aspects of the Tri-Stage Ebony Network to life.
Robert 'Black Rob' Higgins
Founder and CEO FLyMajor.com
Best known to the entertainment industry insiders as the architectural engineer behind the FlyMajor.com vision, Black Rob has created a brand which is synonymously affiliated with southern nightlife. Born Robert Higgins, he is an assertive, young, witty, successful, and dynamic man. Black Rob is a Spring 2009 Graduate of Tennessee State University and native of St. Louis, Mo.
As a growing business man, Black Rob strives continuously to make the impossible possible. 'My momma always told me to simply believe.' And believe he does! With over 50,000 patrons to FlyMajor.coms annual events, it is evident that his formula of cultivating solid relationships, non-stop work, and faith in Christ, is paying off.
With plans in motion to expand Flymajor.com's primary regional focus into secondary markets over the summer, soon other cities including Memphis, Chattanooga, and Atlanta will have the pleasure of experiencing a FlyMajor.com event. As FlyMajor.com continues to operate like a well oiled machine, Rob is focused on further developing and branding the FlyMajor Muzic Group record label, and its first artist Mann.
Over the years Black Rob has become more involved with the community and continues to give back through the Flymajor Above All Odd Scholarships. The Scholarship gives a total of $1800 in awards every semester to three qualifying collegiate candidates.
As he travels the journey to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming the country’s most recognizable and successful event promotional company, Black Rob believes:
'I cannot give you the formula for success, but I can give you the formula for failure--which is Trying to please everybody.' - Robert Higgins
Follow Black Rob on Twitter @IamBlackrob
FlyMajor.com
Media Contact: Miji Pears at PREMIUM Public Relations World 404.944.6439
DJ Rage, the son of prominent Milwaukee, Wi DJ Larry K. Myles, first showed an interest in DJing at the age of 15 via house parties held in Nashville, TN. In 1995 DJ Rage relocated to his hometown of Milwaukee, WI and continued to service house parties while shadowing various Milwaukee DJs such as Tony Neal & Doc B. In 2002 DJ Rage found himself back in the Ville shadowing DJs Derrick (The Big DM) Mason, Darryl Jaye, C-Wiz, C-Lo, Bryant D In 2003, DJ Rage established himself as a member of Dj Whoo Kid's (50 Cent's Dj) Collective The Shadyville Dj's, Ludacris' Dtp Dj's and Nelly's Derrty Djs. Dj Rage Holds Down The Crash Ya Car Old School Hip Hop And R&B Mixshow On 92.1 Fm (92Q) In Nashville On Fridays From 6-7Pm Dj Rage Can Be Contacted at Twitter.com/Dj_rage , Facebook.com/TheDjRage, Myspace.com/Rage615 Or DjRage@Shadyvilledjs.Net
Corporate Kings Marketing Group
Atlantis Ultra Lounge
Born and raised in MIAMI, Bichar has brought the HEAT to
the Ville for the past TEN YEARS with his two promotion groups CORPORATE KINGS ENT (21 & up, professional events) & Campus Kings (Collegiant Mixers). He has hosted over 300 events including concerts, parties, step shows, fashion shows, live shows, dinner/fundraisers which have been attended by as many as 3,000 guests including celebrity names 50 Cent, Yo Gotti, Dj Drama, Juvenile, Tamia, Trillville, Jagged Edge, Avant and over 30 more platinum artists. His current endeavors include the Atlantis ultra lounge, online clothing line: dangerousnegro.com which current has retail in over 20 states including Canada & has been featured and official Tennessee promotional director of lifelong friend Black Dada (Hit Single...I'm a Zoe) and Grammy winner & Chicago Legend RhymeFest. In the very near future, Bichar intends on expanding his marketing & advertising agency, create a major record label, and create model agency and photo studio.
As an event professional and a self-professed socialite from Detroit, MI, Sharica seeks opportunities to help people from all demographics to Be Social, Be Ready and Be in the Moment by creating events experiences that are tailored to a city that could seem to be divided by social classes. The Social Butterfly PR & Events have produced events for some of the biggest names in the business, such as the VH1s Dr. Ian Smith 50 Million Pound Challenges Nashville Get Fit Day, and the Girl Scouts 95th Anniversary for over 7,000 people. However, she receives the purest joy from producing events that allow people to be themselves in a very fun and friendly environment. As an on-air personality, you can check her out every Friday on 92Qs Kenny Smoov show, with the Social Butterfly Picks of the Week.
Sharica is a TSU graduate, and a current graduate student at George Washington University obtaining her masters in Tourism Administration. In 2009, Sharica was awarded the honor of being named one of 2009s Role Model for EveryBODY by the Eating Disorder Coalition (EDCT). She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and a board member for the Nashville Film Festival.
Sharica M. Smallwood
The Social Butterfly PR & Events
(615) 784-9820 Office
(615) 460-0217 Fax Sharica@socialbutterflypr.com
Check out our new website: www.socialbutterflypr.com
Dj Crisis
FlyMajor.com, Shut Up & Listen Mix-tape Series
Born as Cordarius Freeman in Decatur, GA, Dj Crisis has branded himself as Mr. Shut Up & Listen; Nashville's Ultimate Dj Entertainer and the industry's hardest working young, trendy, humble, and successful businessman.
With his childhood beliefs stemming from his mother's consistent reiteration of the importance of faith, Crisis had always known the sky was the limit. However, the success that is synonymous with Dj Crisis has, in his words, been both mind boggling and a blessing.
Dj Crisis specializes in Club Djing. Many Dj's arent able to continuously rock the 'club' environment and I've come to be an expert in it. Though, this true, Dj Crisis is not only a night club Dj but he is a radio personality, a Mix-tape Dj, a rapper, and a promoter; being a front man and co-founder of FlyMajor.com, SEAs 2010 Club Promoters of the Year.
More recently Crisis had the rewarding experience of collaborating with Dj Drama for Shut Up & Listen Vol 9. Dj Crisis is currently Young Bucks Official Dj and can be heard on 101.1 The Beat on Sundays from 10:00p.m. to 12:00a.m. He is also a student at Tennessee State University pursuing a degree in Mass Communications.
Dj Crisis goal in life is just to capitalize on every opportunity that presents itself. 'That's all I can do!'
Follow Dj Crisis on Twitter @TheDjCrisis
FlyMajor.com
Media Contact: Miji Pears at PREMIUM Public Relations World 404.944.6439
I am a 26 year old photojournalist hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I got my start photographing events here in Nashville with FlyMajor.com in 2007. In three short years, I have photographed three weddings, IMG Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City, and over 300 parties in the Southern US. The method to my success thus far can be traced to my laid-back demeanor coupled with sophisticated interaction with my clients. My mission is rise above the status quo and bring life-altering images from leading events to the masses.
Affiliation(s): PictureMane Photography; Nightlifelink.com (Atlanta, GA); Prophecy Events (Atlanta, GA); FlyMajor.com (Nashville, TN); Regal Nightlife (Nashville, TN)
I am a Nashville native and graduate of Tennessee State University where I discovered the world of theater, My previous theatre performances include, A Raisin in the Sun (George/Moving Man), Seven Guitars (Red Carter), Blues for an Alabama Sky (Dr. Sam Thomas), The Piano Lesson (Doaker), and Waiting to End Hell (Alvin). I also have a one man show dedicated to the life of civil rights leader Adam Clayton Powell Jr. called 'Adam Where Art Thou?,'which I perform for church, banquets, and Black history programs. As a poet I have been featured on numerous recordings and at spoken word events and released a comedy/poetry album called 'Cometry'. My film credits include The Green Mile, The Civil Brand, Drumline, Lincoln Heights, Hancock, Love, Life, and Hollywood, Bailey, Hannah Montana, the Movie, and Love Don't Let Me Down, and numerous commercials. As a stand up comedian, I have performed at the World Famous Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store(L.A.), Jokes and Notes(Chicago), Morty's(Indianapolis), The Laugh House(Philadelphia) Ha Ha's Comedy Cafe(Hollywood), The Funnybone (Columbus,OH). The Comedy Caravan(Louisville) and the Stardome(Alabama). This year I just taped my first T.V. appearance on BET's 'A Time to Laugh' and I have hosted and featured shows for Adam Hunter, Rodman, K-Dubb, Damon Williams, B Cole, G-Thang, Tyler Craig, Gilbert Esquavez, Manny Maldanado, Michael Blackson, Bret Ernst, Michael Colyar, John Reep, Sommore, and Kevin Hart. I serve on the board of The Urban Professionals as the producer and host for the Urban Professionals Ski Weekend in Pigeon Forge, TN and The Weekend Getaway in Savannah GA. I am also the host of the weekly comedy show called 'Wild Funny Wednesdays' at The Corner Bar on Elliston Place and I co-host of the Urban Soul Comedy Hour at Cafe Bella with fellow comedian Brian 'B-Cov' Covington. I have also performed as the opening act for Gospel Singer Niyoki. I also have my own sketch comedy show called the 'What Tha? Comedy Show' and I have my own in house T.V. production company called Sleepwalker Entertainment that shoots and edits video.
DJ Prez Is Ready For His Prezidential Campaign. What do you get when you have a super ambitious DJ mixed with superb leadership qualities? The ending result, Chattanooga, TN native Derrick Pasley a.k.a DJ PrezDJ Prez is a newcomer in the game. He's only been DJing for a little over a year, but don't let his short time as a DJ fool you. Dedicated to his craft, Prez has steadily made a major name for himself in the state of Tennessee. He has already put out over ten mixtapes in his short DJing career. Prez has also been featured in Ozone Magazine (issue #77, page 41, photo with DJ Drama) as well as in Concrete Magazine.
His mixtape series, CR-1, CR-2, and CR-3, have allowed him to grow a nice fan base. With thousands of listens and downloads on Datpiff.com and Limelinx.com, Prez has established himself as an upcoming force in the South. He has also gained the support of Down South artists such as Kia Shine, Travis Porter, All Star, Drumma Boy, Pule, PAT, Mike Scruggs, and I.V. He's also collaborated with 101.1 The Beat (Nashville) and Power 94 (Chattanooga). As you can see, the homie grinds hard.
DJ Prez is also a party promoter, bartender, emcee, photographer, and Co-CEO of G2dotEdu. He also holds down 88.3 FM in Murfreesboro, TN with Tatiana & Culture Shock Magazine every Tuesday night. Prez can also be seen spinning at some of the hottest clubs in Nashville such as Bar Fly's, The Place Martini Bar, Atlantis, Center Stage, Limelight, and The Miro District just to name a few.
Make sure to download his newest mixtape, Night Flight F-003, and TasteMaker 3.0 with fellow Tennessean DJ Young Breezye
For booking, call (615) 713-9454 or email djpreztn@gmail.com www.twitter.com/djpreztn
Bryan Dj Young Breezye Roberson
G2dotEdu / WeAreG2 / Taste Maker / Theg2experience
When It Comes To Night Life In Tennessee, There Are A Couple Names And Faces That
Come To Mind. While The Face May Not Register To Some, The Name, "Dj Young Breezye" Definitely Rings A Bell To All. Born And Raised In Memphis, TN, Bryan ' Young Breezye' Roberson Developed A Passion For The "Night Life" During His Adolescent Years In Memphis.
When I Was In Middle School, I Remember Going To The Skating Rink Faithfully Every Saturday Night, and Hearing The DeeJay Scratch And Mix Songs, And I Always Thought That Was Cool. Not Knowing At The Time That This Was Just The Beginning Of Great To Come. ~ Dj Young Breezye
Just A Couple Years Later, Dj Young Breezye Purchased His First Mixer, Pair Of Turntables, And 12" Vinyl Records From A Local Memphis Record Shop. After Sleepless Nights Of Practice, And The Drive To Be Among Memphis' Greats',
Dj Young Breezye Was Born And Began Spinning Along Side Some Of Memphis' Top Deejays.
After High School, Young Breezye Relocated To Middle Tennessee To Attend Middle Tennessee State University, Where He Received His Bachelors In Mass Communications In The Spring Of 2009. While Attending Middle Tennessee State, Young Breezye Embedded A Permanent Mark On The Middle Tennessee Area From The Brand Building Of His Name Through Entities Such As, The Night Flight Mixtape Series, The Night Ryder's Mixtape Series, The Just Ride Mixtape Series, His Involvement With The Foundation And Branding Of The G2 Empire.
You Can Catch Dj Young Breezye Spinning At Tennessee's Hottest Clubs, College Events, College Campuses, Concerts, & Shows.
Al Lozano of Get At Me Entertainment is a professional event promoter with over five years experience in music management. The son of two Filipino- born citizens, he was raised in Virginia Beach and moved to Nashville, TN in 1999 with an opportunity to start his own company.
Always looking to break new ground, Lozano has built a positive reputation within the entertainment industry breaking in the career of local producer/ artist, Nasty Nyse and working with famed music makers such as Fate Eastwood, All Star and Yo Gotti.
Growing as a familiar face in Nashville, while promoting Nyse, he soon teamed up with long- known club owner Terry Hudson to hone in on his new passion as a party promoter. He introduced new ways of partying to Nashville through his signature theme 'The Outta of Town Experience,' where he is known for booking national DJs. 'I want to bring the experience's I've had on the road, to Nashville's night life,' Lozano admits.
Currently, he is managing the career of multi talented singer, songwriter and producer, Rio. Also, he helps to manage The Neptunes' Chad Hugo's charity contributions in the Philippines all while running his self-owned company of 10 years, National Dent Repair.
Martez Burks
FlyMajor.com, Author of Memoirs of a Gentleman
What makes a gentleman a gentleman? Many people pose this very question to Martez Burks, author of Memoirs of a Gentleman.
As a self proclaimed gentleman, Burks attributes majority of his knowledge and understanding of what a gentleman represents to his own personal experiences.
Martez has lived the life of a hustler, entrepreneur, go-getter, distinguished Nashville, TN man, trend setter, live wire, achiever, self-starter, and high flier while making moves in the melting-pot of the entertainment industry as an event promoter with FlyMajor.com.
His life as a gentleman consists of ongoing meetings with who's who of urban elite Nashville society and interactions with a lot of women. 'Giving into temptation is a typical occurrence in my line of work' thus the motivation for his newly published book Memoirs of a Gentleman.
Martez is currently a Graduate student at Tennessee State University, pursuing his Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology.
Upon graduation, Martez hopes to earned his Doctorate Degree and make the New York Time's Best Sellers list.
'An empowered organization is one in which individuals have the knowledge, skill, desire, and opportunity to personally succeed in a way that leads to collective organizational success.' -Stephen R. Covey http://www.outskirtspress.com/memoirsofag
Memoirs of a gentleman is currently available online at amazon.com,
Barnes & Noble.com and outskirtspress.com/memoirsofag
Follow Memoirs of a Gentleman @Memoirsof_AG/
Media Contact: Miji Pearse PREMIUM Public Relations
Renee a native of Hollis (Queens), New York moved to Nashville, TN in 2001 to attend Vanderbilt University. In the summer of 2005 Renee started her first job in the restaurant / nightclub industry working as a server at Level 88 Jazz Bistro. Under the leadership & knowledge of Moe she very quickly learned every aspect of running a successful and profitable bar. Within the year she served, bartended and ran the club herself. Renee always jokes that Moe taught her everything except how to cook – on the job training that no amount of college tuition could teach you.
While at Level 88 Renee, Brittany, Quadriyyah & TaNisha started Blu Diamond Entertainment, LLC. Blu Diamond went on to promote 'Eye Candy Sunday', the Crunkest Sunday party that Nashville has seen to date. This earned the young female entrepreneurs a S.E.A. nomination. They also planned such events as HangTime's 1yr anniversary party & G.L.U.W. ent.'s launch party where RIP (Cashville's Ace) filmed his first music video 'Keys to the Chevy'. Blu Diamond is known for having fresh, innovative ideas, bringing the hottest rap & hip-hop artist to the market as well as supporting up & coming local talent.
Renee helped to open Pearl Fusion Restro in May of 2008. Hiring & managing the FOH staff. There she finally learned the Back Of House operations and what it takes to cook quickly and efficiently. Renee left Pearl to become the managing partner at BrickHouse Bar located @ 701 4th Ave S. Nashville, TN. 37210. While BrickHouse is still the new kid on the block when it comes to the Nashville entertainment circuit, it will soon prove to be a force to be reckoned with as is everything else Renee has done in the market thus far. BrickHouse is currently opened Wed through Fri @ 4pm and Sat @ 10pm. In the future Renee plans on owning her own bar, starting a non-profit focusing on education and pursuing her true passions: traveling & photography.
DJ Jazzy T is a 21 year old native of East Atlanta, Georgia. She is a Junior at Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee. She made her djing debute in 2007. Since then, she has released two mixtapes of the series, 'Relax and Take Notes'. Her mixtape includes songs from various artist, in addition to a special section dedicated for unsigned and/or indy artist.
DJ Jazzy T is well known for showing that she is a Diva and always incorporates it in her DJ style. Jazzy T has been featured in Culture Shock Magazine and her sponsors include Hangtime and Studio 615.
She wants for everyone to know who she is as a female DJ before she leaves Nashville. Jazzy T has a drive for success, but more importantly, an unyielding passion for being the best female DJ. She says, 'I rather for people to hate me for what I am, than to love me for what I’m not.'
If you would like to be featured on the mixtape and/or for booking, contact Carlisa Pridgen (301) 938-7321. Make sure to follow Jazzy T on Twitter @DjJazzyT13
I am originally from Newark, NJ, but I've been doing radio all over the south (TX, AL, LA, SC, NC, MS, TN). My future goals for Nashville is to continue to work with other visionaries, promoters, etc., to expand the "entertainment pallete" of our fair city. I want to continue to bring high quality entertainment for the "Adult Aged" audience of Nashville. For so long, it has been overlooked and underserved. I want to quench that thirst with refreshing entertainment that feeds the mental and the physical...Ya Dig!!
Eric Holt, Managing Partner
CHIMINUS/The Lovenoise Group
Eric Holt is Managing Partner of Chiminus Enterprises, a diversified lifestyle marketing and consulting company, and Co-Founding Director of entertainment outfit The Lovenoise Group, which runs “Lovenoise” a live music event hosted each Friday in Nashville and other cities through out the Southeast. A trained lawyer, Eric in 2002 decided to move into marketing and entertainment instead of law; he has since become a well-known and respected figure among urban marketing and music circles around the Southeast. He also serves on Mayor Carl Dean's Music Advisory Council and sits on the board's of: Nashville's International Black Film Festival, Mid-Night Basketball of Nashville, OurMusicCity.org and Next Big Nashville Music Festival.
I would like to continue to grow the Lovenoise brand. My partners and I have managed to out live half a dozen venues, countless of other themed nights and more regionally. We see our brand expanding its online assets and international presence in 2010-2011. Our website www.lovenoise.net frequently gets hits and inquires from Asia and Africa. We see Lovenoise being a worldwide brand in the next five years.
Moreover, we also plan to continue to grow our marketing and consulting company Chiminus. The past few years we have been lucky enough to work for large brands such as Red Bull, Cricket Communications, Toyota Scion, American Basketball Association, Capitol Records and more recently Burger King. We would like to continue to build custom events and marketing solutions for small and large companies alike.
Ken Miller
K. Miller Marketing Group, Rain Ultralounge,
My name is Ken Miller, 23 year old senior at Tennessee State University from Memphis, TN. I'm currently pursuing a degree in Business Information Systems. My future goals are to deliver the future of social networking online with thekonnect.com, open Rain Memphis, and finish getting my commercial pilot license. You can catch Ken miller, Marketing Manager at Rain Ultralounge the #1 Nightclub in Nashville on the weekends. Stay tuned for the Spring: Midnight Breakfast, Sunset @TBA, and RELAX the official midweek after work network.
Jamie and Brooke established a mobile DJ and karaoke company that would to bring customers in Nashville and surrounding cities a fresh, new alternative to the ordinary private party. We created a party that makes the audience hunger to participate, not just observe. Some of the qualities that our customers have come to rely on are:
- Top of the Line Sound System.
- On time Setup with no cancellations or excuses.
- Consistent high level of entertainment at every event.
- Ability to read crowds, and understand what it takes to get people dancing.
- Large, 60,000 song karaoke database that is filled with Old School and Current hip hop, r&b, gospel, & pop selections.
- Ability to keep all guests, of all ages, involved and entertained.
We provide DJ and karaoke services for Weddings and Receptions, Birthday Parties, Family Reunions, Graduation Parties, Company Functions, Holiday Parties, Church Functions, and many more. Our weekly events are filled with people like you, who enjoy dancing, laughing, or singing in a fun, stress-free atmosphere.
It is said that Fine Art is an expression of the artists vision and creativity.
Through photography, Jason has the artistry to capture the essence of people and places as he sees them and he has a passion for sharing his images with the world.
Born and raised in Crystal Springs, MS, Jason Martin was educated in the field of Business. After finishing junior college, Jason moved to Middle Tennessee to complete his Bachelor of Science degree at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). While in college, he discovered his fondness for photography and hasn’t put his camera down since!
Jason enjoys photographing the changing face of Nashville, whether capturing images of the thriving nightlife, fashion, special events, or simply taking photos of Nashville’s skyline, architecture and historic landmarks.
I love capturing people and their personalities on camera. What can I say…I love my job! states Martin.
Jason has worked on several assignments for clients in music, non-profit organizations, special events, small businesses, fundraising, and real estate. The most recent commission includes photographing the upcoming Nicole Miller Fashion Show, which benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in April.
For more information, please visit his website @ www.martinimagery.com
The Usual Suspects - Jeff "Mr. Start Choosin" Lipscomb
Jeff Lipscomb
Jeffery Leon Lipscomb II was born in Decatur GA. He attended k-12 in the DeKalb County School System. He graduated from Redan High School in 2006. After graduation he decided to further its education at Tennessee State University where he is pursuing a bachelor degree in Mass Communications with a focus in Radio and Television. Mr. Startchoosin is a very dedicated and focus individual and knows just what he wants in life. Currently in his senior year at Tennessee State University he is the Founder of J.R Entertainment, Promotion Director of WTST the Blaze Campus Radio and An active member of The Alpha Theta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. Mr. Startchoosin is and has been the host of the A-team radio show for the past 3 years which airs on WTST the blaze every Tuesday from 6-8pm Mr. Startchoosin is striving for excellence and is passionate about radio and hopes he will be one of the top Radio Personality in the world one day and his goal is to be working in syndication by the age of 26. Mr. Starchoosin’s motto in life is I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me and everything he does in life he does it not only for himself but for his family and his late father Jeffery Lipscomb Sr.
I'm from Petersburg VA and moved to Nashville, TN in 1998 to go to MTSU. I'm a Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Eta Gamma Chapter Spr 2K. I've been doing music since the age of 3 and started playing saxophone at 12. Started DJing in 1999. Started doing Comedy Tours in 2000 with Comedian T.C. Cope. Graduated with a B.S. in Music Business from MTSU in Spr 2003. Toured with Young Buck and G-Unit from 2006-2008. Performed on 106&Park, Jimmy Kimmel, Carson Daly, Wild N Out with Nick Cannon, Showtime at the Apollo, Spring Bling, and MTV Live. I've been doing Videography for MT Zion Baptist Church since 2004. I've been working at 102.5 The Party since Nov 2008 and was recently promoted to Production Director for 102.1 The Light, our Gospel Station. My Future Goals are to continue to be successful in radio and do the best I can for the ministry of Jesus Christ. I also look forward to being a great husband and father and having a financially secure future. One thing you might not know about me is I'm mostly Native American and I'll be 30 this year lol
A lover of Oreo cookies, Spike Lee joints, Documentaries and Charlie Parker, the owner of SOUL LOUNGE USA takes no prisoners sharing his music/performance/entrepreneur ideals through inspiration and loving desperation. … Bill Lee, as a musician released his debut CD Who Is Bill Lee? The CD has sold close 11,000 copies on the independent level with a third of the sales being in Europe.
Although a passionate writer and performer, Bill Lee has focused his efforts on producing and promoting SOUL LOUNGE USA which is now established in Nashville, Memphis and Birmingham, with St. Louis being added as a 4th city this summer. 'The objective is to create a national grassroots soul music movement. There is unbelievable talent we don't hear on the radio and I happen to believe people still have an appetite for quality music.'
SOUL LOUNGE serves as a live music hub for Soul artists/bands, a soul networking event and a solid marketing arm for companies seeking to reach the urban music lover demographic. Grammy Award winners PJ Morton (India Arie) and Tommy Sims (Eric Clapton) grace the SOUL LOUNGE stage April 25 to help celebrate its 3rd anniversary. SOUL LOUNGE Nashville happens every Sunday at BB Kings (downstairs). Doors open at 8pm.
Corporate Sponsorship will enable SOUL LOUNGE to establish a tour this summer and potentially plan a presence in 8 major cities in the US. Tune into www.SoulLoungeUSA.com for updates.
Bill Lee McCleskey
Main Email: bill@SoulLoungeUSA.com
Biz Site: www.SoulLoungeUSA.com
Company Phone: 615-934-3903
Personal Phone ---> 615-593-6093
Twitter: twitter.com/soullounge
Clarksville Couple in Essence Will You Marry Me Contest!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
My favorite topic in the whole wide world is probably love. And the pursuit of love. Second to that would be marriage and the pursuit of marriage. To both topics add the word black and we are in the groove. This is why I love the Essence Will You Marry Me Contest.
For the past few years Essence has invited men that want to propose to their girlfriends to write in and tell Essence why. Essence then selects four of the best entries, flys the men to NYC for a photo shoot and then they film each couples proposal. Essence readers from around the world then vote on their fave couple online. Each year, I watch all the videos and choose my favorite couple and then I proceed to vote for said couple daily as I sit and dream that a man would say such lovely things about me one day.
The winning couple receives a wedding of their dreams amongst other things.
Anyway.
This year I actually know a couple in the contest!!! Well, kinda. Like the bride is the best friend of one of my closet friend's ex-boyfriend. And we were all at a private party together once. But most important to you all is that the groom, Cleveland Carr, is from Clarksville.
Cleveland is an infantry soldier in the U.S. Army getting ready for his fourth deployment. He is the one with the guns. What an awesome sacrifice, huh? Maya is a teacher. Their relationship is long-distance. She has children from a prior relationship and so does he. Both are defying odds that I can't even began to imagine. They are certainly a couple that is deserving of the wedding of their dreams.
I want each of you to take 3 minutes out of your schedule and go vote for Mayaland as their friends affectionately call the couple. Then you can go and join their fan club on Facebook.
TEXT IN/TEXT OUT: I refuse to have a romantic text message relationship with you.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Click here for a transcript of the text message conversation that started my rant.
I'm not quite sure when the text message revolution began. All I know is -- I don't like it. Actually, I absolutely hate for a man to engage me in a conversation via text. I'll entertain it for a few lines, but a look at my SMS folder will reveal to you that SMS conversations usually end when I ignore his last statement. My thing is, if you really want to speak with me you would pick up the phone and call. If you don't call, I just assume that you aren't really serious about communicating with me. And (consequently) you will be ignored. To me texting is juvenile; and since -- excuse my French -- I am a grown ASS woman, I simply CANNOT with this text messaging BULLSHIT.
So today, I'm helping out my ladies by giving a few tips to men on phone communication. It's unfortunate that situations have come to this but it Is necessary.
TEXTING IS RUDE You don't know what a woman's text message bundle is looking like. Some fool went off and decided it was okay to charge the recipient for text message that they receive. Thus it doesn't matter that she didn't initiate conversation, she may still end up paying for that wack: What's up message you just sent. And no, it is not okay to assume that everyone has an unlimited text messaging bundle. It is just not okay and not everyone does. I mean, I just got one last year and it was because I was sick of paying overage for folks to send me text message. (For real, I rarely text) So when you text a person, without first asking their permission to text them you are actually being rude and perhaps a wee bit obnoxious.
INTENT OF TEXTS ARE OFTEN LOST IN TRANSLATION. Part of the issue with texting is that the intent behind the words you are typing is more easily lost upon the reader when they can't hear the intonations in your voice. Take for instance, the conversation above between me and dude. I was just joking when I suggested that he wanted to be chased. But he took it and ran with it because he didn't hear the jokey joke in my voice. And now, his chances of ever having anything serious with me have been severely impaired. Why? Because anyone that is strictly business (in my mind) would know that texting is inappropriate when attempting to deal romantically with a woman. And quite frankly, his messages had a subtext of bitchassness.
JUST PICK UP THE DAMN PHONE! If you are a grown man, about your issues, and serious about communicating with a woman, you need to do like we did in '96 and pick up the phone and call her. Anyone can carry on a relationship when all it requires is 180 characters, Applebees, and a booty call. But it's far hard to fake chemistry during a one on one phone conversation. If she's dry, you will know it, because she won't be talking about nothing. If he's really at his boys watching the game, you will know it because you will hear them yelling in the background and teasing him about "treeboxing". But in all seriousness, taking time out of your schedule to speak to a woman that you are interested in shows a lot about who you are as a man, and goes a great way to convey your level of interest. When all a man wants to do is text me, I immediately label him: not serious, juvenile, LAME and (cue Jay-Z) I'm on to the NEXT.
Using the phone to speak more and text less may actually be in your best interest. If Tiger Woods hadn't sent those texts to ol girl, there would be less of a verifiable record of their communication. He's been losing ever since. Same thing with Kwame Kilpatrick who had the nerve to exchange "hot and steamy" text messages with a staffer (Click here for a transcript of all 6,000 messages). These text messages were used to impeach Mr. Kilpatrick in court and he ultimately lost his job as one of the youngest mayors in the country. In these instances texting did not serve anyone's best interest.
With that said, I recognize that there are circumstances under which texting is acceptable (even to me): Brief information exchange when one party is unavailable, directions/address information, status updates (i.e. I'm sitting at the bar, I'll be there in 5 minutes, I'm going to have to work late, etc.) and FLEXTING – flirting via text. Ok, I admit I like when guys flirt with me via text . . .SOMETIMES.
Texting is not ok: to initiate conversations, recite obituaries, chain letters, dirty jokes, or to extend holiday wishes.
As I look back over my 20s I think I was far too serious for such a curious, outgoing and fun-natured girl.
Here's the sum of my 20s: college, career with federal government (attended law school in the evenings), Lawyer.
Boring.
Sure there have been trips here and there, but I missed out on studying abroad and Spring Break because I was devoted to studying and committed to internships. Back then my career aspirations came first. As I think about that girl I see an anxiety ridden young lady afraid of venturing too far off the path, even though I am an off-the beaten path type of girl. But as I look forward to entering another decade, I am resolved to spend more time doing the things that I love the most: exploring the world and studying the human experience—in another life I am an anthropologist. This would make me very happy.
So I've already began to think about how I will make it work and as I reshape my priorities, they look more like this:
Travel
Family
Career
I am reminded of my grandmother, a woman before her time. She was born in the 1930s and spent her life as a housewife and reared 8 children. As a young girl, I watched her teach herself to speak Spanish using audiocassettes. But unfortunately she never made it to Spain, Mexico or even the Bronx, to experience the joy of engaging in conversation with a language she loved.
My grandmother's story ignites a new sense of urgency within my soul and helps to soothe the anxiety I sometimes feel when I think about my desire to obtain the additional titles of wife and mother.
My fears of venturing off the path are replaced with a new fear: this may be my only opportunity to spend time doing what I want to do without having to consider a husband or children.
Nevertheless, this weekend I was one of the millions of moviegoers that made Disney’s introduction of the first black princess, Princess Tiana in The Princess and the Frog the number one movie this past weekend. TPF is based loosely on the Brother’s Grimm fairy tale, The Frog Prince.I didn’t expect much from the movie – I was already annoyed that the Prince appeared to be racially ambiguous and I had heard that Princess Tiana was a frog for the majority of the movie. I just went because, um, well . . .I could not miss it.
I can admit when I am wrong.I absolutely LOVED this movie and found it to be extremely timely and relevant for young and old(er) princesses alike with so many short quick messages, I had to take notes via twitter.
The movie begins with Tiana’s mother reading the tale of the Frog Prince to young Tiana and Charlotte, the daughter of a wealthy white New Orleans man.Charlotte couldn’t get enough of the love story. She jumped up and down and begged for Tiana’s mother to read it again.Meanwhile, Tiana wasn’t buying it and stated emphatically:
“I am never, ever, ever, ever, ever gonna kiss a frog.”
When I heard Tiana utter those words, I knew that things over at Disney were a changing.I also recognized the statement to be metaphorically similar to:I am not lowering my standards just to have a man.A statement that I have heard many of my own girlfriends state.Not to mention, the blogosphere, which is ablaze with commentary on the black woman’s need to reevaluate their standards for practical purposes. Not saying all black women feel this way, I’m just saying I could relate to where little Tiana was coming from. But the reality is you never know what package your prince is going to come in or where he is going to come from so in order to better your changes of meeting your prince you should always keep an open mind--A lesson that Tiana learns by the end of the movie.
The next scene takes us to an older Tiana who is working two jobs as a waitress in order to save enough money so that she can fulfill the dream she shared with her father of opening her own restaurant.Tiana is determined, hardworking and the recipient of insults for her hard work.While she was waiting on a table of her friends they asked Tiana to come out and go dancing with them and Tiana replies (in song):
“I don’t have time for dancing, that’s just gonna have to wait awhile.”
Again, this line struck awfully close to home. The subtext of my life is apparently also the subtext of Tiana’s life as she made similar statements throughout the movie.During a conversation with the frog, Tiana informs him that “the only way to get anything out of life is through hard work.”When the frog says to her, “you shouldn’t have to work so hard, you’re a princess,” Tiana’s response is:“I am no princess.”Aww . . .how dreadful, right?Kinda puts me in the mind of Sojourner Truth’s historic Ain't I a Woman speech.Historically, black women have always had a heavier load to bear, making it easy to understand why even today, many black women find it difficult to strike the balance between their responsibilities and taking time out to enjoy life or to take care of them first.Perhaps you know women that are so determined to finish school, or are so enthralled in their careers that they don’t have time to date and/or have difficulty letting a man take care of them.For many black women, life has been anything but a fairy tale and they are rarely the princess.
Drama ensues and through a series of unfortunate events (including some voodoo and typical Disney music), that I will not detail here: Tiana kisses the frog (whom is actually a racially ambiguous, disowned, financially strapped Prince Naveen of Maldonia) and she becomes a frog herself which sets them both on a mission to be turned back human and fulfill her dream before the building she has been eyeing before her restaurant is sold to a higher bidder.
I have to admit there were some racially charged moments for me.I was annoyed that Prince Naveen was broke (and racially ambiguous) and at one point Tiana calls the frog a “no-count, philandering, lazy bump on a log.”This made me want to tell Tiana that we have to be careful about introducing racialized language and stereotypes into our love lives.I expect that there are crowds of angry black men, long having been called lazy, no-counts, that will fight this battle for me.I am guessing that Al Sharpton has not seen the movie yet.
“When you find out who you are, you find out what you need.”
This line came from voodoo priestess Mama Odie whom the frogs, Prince Naveen and Tiana, have sought out to turn them back into humans.But isn’t this message also true in real life?Translation: Enjoy who you are now and where you are now.Get that under control.Once that is under control you will be in a better place to assess your needs.Its around this time that my favorite line of the movie comes out.
”I will do whatever it takes to make all your dreams come true, because I love you.”
It’s from the Prince.He’s fallen in love with Tiana and wants to propose to her, but Tiana is more concerned with breaking the spell so that the Prince can marry Lulu, get her money and then give it to Tiana so that she can buy her restaurant.This is the ultimate lesson. My wish for all women is to learn this fundamental lesson: when a man loves you and wants to be with you nothing will stop him from being with you.He, just like the Prince, will do whatever it takes. But just when Tiana is starting to let go and fall for the prince, the bottom falls out (or so she thinks), she begins to once again become cynical and we hear the all too familiar language of cynics and haters:
“Just because you wish for something doesn't mean its true. Open your eyes now, before you get hurt.”
Luckily Tiana, the hater is short-lived and as she begins to reflect on her life and the life of her father she discovers that she is not too sure about what she wants anymore and she has two aha moments. 1)she may not always have what she wants, but she has always had what she needs—LOVE and 2) her dream would not be complete without her frog[man] in it.So she decides to accept the frog for what he is.
Mama Oldie officiates the the two frogs’ wedding ceremony and when they kiss, they are both returned to humans and we get another message, this time from the Prince:
“Once you became my wife, you became a princess.”
I would like to think that this lesson is self-explanatory and that it will be as strong for all little boys and bigger boys as it will be for little girls and old(er) girls alike.The next scene shows Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen’s happily ever after:the two of them working and living her dream.No riding off on a white horse to some mythical land far, far away to live his dream.Instead he is a partner in her dream.Truly a modern fairy tale.Now ain’t that grand?
