When I made the “Diamond Girl” movie back in 2007, I was doing exactly what I’ve always done: making the best use of my resources to bring a creative vision to life. Imagine my surprise and excitement upon hearing that the creative team at Lexus had interest in using the film as a reference for their latest campaign focused on the all-new, seven-passenger GX460:
Look closely and you’ll recognize the Moschino suit from my performance at the BET Honors, illustrating a creative seamless integration of the campaign’s kickoff with the television special (the ad begins just as I’m walking off stage). I posted this to encourage you all to be fearless. Taking on the challenge of executing your creative vision can be intimidating, especially when you are passionate about the message you wish to convey. At times, you may get caught up in the numbers. How many people are watching? I encourage you to consider that what really matters is who’s watching. In this case, the time and energy invested in making a short film have indirectly influenced a transition from the web to the small screen in the form of this amazing branding partnership. For a behind-the-scenes look at the deal, check the video below:
At this moment, I truly have to give it up to all of you – especially those who have shared my videos with your friends and families. Your support of my creative endeavors is the reason that the Lexus brand has integrated me in their messaging. I appreciate all of you and I’ll be working with Lexus to provide a chance for someone to come and test drive the car in NYC with me. Stay tuned for details.
Yahoo has always been one of the big media channels on-line. This is a piece they commissioned. It was shot and now released in conjunction with the launch of their new campaign:
I love the fact that this piece focuses on Harlem. My ‘hood has been good to me! Shout to Mr. Ferguson at the end who said I’m on my way to being MJ. Trust me, I’m definitely aiming high and enjoying the journey. Thank you all for riding with me (especially Elliott & Casey at PhearCreative, who made this piece come to life and have always made great visual partners).
The CDs are in! The countdown is on! Thank you all for listening and riding with me:
Since the feedback from the first album presentation was so strong, I’ve decided to present the album again on November 4th at The Times Center in Manhattan. Even more exciting, I’m also compiling a documentary-style film about the inspiration behind and the making of TRANSITION. These songs are special because of the circumstances. Sharing the story will offer a lens into my mind and heart as I was writing them.
I’ve had a great rapport with my distribution company on this album cycle. Phylicia Fant, who works in the publicity department at Universal set me up with this Esquire-sponsored gig performing at Mel Debarge’s birthday party in the penthouse of the Rivington:
The great mix of people (including my buddy Todd Moscowitz) and the backdrop of the city have me thinking about moving downtown to a loft where I can do this more often! I really had a blast and would love to give private concerts of songs-in-progress before I record my next album, which will be done in a classic 70’s rock style! The song I’m performing is called “Something That I Like”. The album version features Pusha T of the Clipse. This version features a great solo from Chris Morgan, a magnificent player and an equally great guy. Shout out to Evan for capturing this on our 5D Mark II, and to Shiv for playing DJ that night!
I’ll never forget the day that I first played “Nothing” for my sister, Joy. She had stopped by my brownstone in Harlem and she immediately responded to the record by saying, “That’s a great summer song – I can already hear it playing in the Park.” Consistent with her premonition, I knew that I had to play that song live when the got the news from Ed Woods that this Summer Stage gig was confirmed:
Central Park is an amazing venue. There were more than 5,000 people who actually made it into the performance area and another few thousand that were turned away. On my way into the park, I stopped for a small group that had been denied access, just to reach out to them and let them know I appreciate their continued support. As I hit the stage, I noticed an especially excited cheering squad in the front row, and had the honor of catching up with them (Chantel, Makila, Ayeshia, and Treminka) after the show. They were kind enough to share their responses to the performance. Thank you all for expecting greatness from me. I give you my word that I will always give everything I can possibly give…and thank you Joy for speaking this into existence!
As I boarded my plane home from Amsterdam Saturday morning, I was recognized for the first time by a staff member at an international airport. “Didn’t I see you on television yesterday?” my ticket agent asked. “Yes!” I replied:
Shout out to Doutzen Kroes for welcoming me to her hometown and bringing some great people to the show. Even more special to me is the fact that my grandfather (“Opa” in Dutch) lives in Amsterdam and thoroughly enjoys knowing that I’m pursuing my dream with vigor and passion and people are responding! Thanks to everyone who took pictures with me before the show. I’ll always remember my first European show with my band. Here’s to many many more!!
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