Martina Hail aka DJ MmcFlyy

ATL is home to many talented folks….Im talkin rappers, artists, photographers, dancers….we got it all.  Since fem-fATL is a female perspective on ATL, we gotta show love to the females in ATL who are doin the damn thing!  Females who are driven, talented, and passionate about their talents!  And with that said…I introduce to you my super talented homegirl… Martina aka DJ MMcFlyy!

Martina is no doubt what fem-fATL considers to be one of our city’s triple threats.  How is she a triple threat??? Well lemme break down each aspect for you:

#1 Dancer/Choreographer:

So lets do a little rewind in time – I met Martina back in ’06, while we were both attending GSU.  When I met her, she had just joined D.O.P. (Dancer’s on Point) which is GSU’s dance team.  She was new to the whole dance thing, and joined solely as a hobby.  The more and more she danced she realized that she was actually pretty good at it.  Now fast forward 4 years….Martina is now one of the most TALENTED dancers in ATL, she holds weekly classes at Gotta Dance Studio in ATL where she teaches her dance class “GoGo & Stilettos”. And did I mention that she is self trained??  This girl is TALENTED!!  She was even hand selected to dance on several episodes of “The Real Housewives of ATL”.  And although she is one of the BEST dancers in ATL, Martina still considers herself the black sheep of dancing, “I’ve only been dancing for 4 years now, I started when I was 20 and I feel like it was something I was meant to do because how I caught onto it was almost instant, I had never done choreography before but it worked out for me, and that’s why I love to teach because I feel like anybody can learn to dance, if I learned how to dance I feel like anybody can learn how to dance…” Martina credits fellow ATL choreographers Victor Jackson, CiCi Kelly, Steven Jones, and Quincy Lamar as being the main people who inspire her and her dancing.  Her wish is to go on tour dancing for Lady Gaga…I can see that happening soon!

#2 Female DJ :

DJ MMcFlyy

Im an avid supporter of Female Dj’s, DJ Rashida is one of my idols, so I find it ultra dope when a female can rule the turntables.  Since music is one Martina’s passions, she developed a love for crate digging and dj’ing.  She loves timeless music, and her favorite musicians include: Earth Wind & Fire, A Tribe Called Quest, The Police, Run DMC, & The Fugees…just to name a few.   When asked who she wishes that she couldv’e DJ’d for, her response was MJ…handsdown!

DJ MMcFlyy's setup

So how did she begin to DJ??  Well asides from her musical passion, she has only been dj’ing for 4 months…the really cute aspect is that her boyfriend Aric is a producer.  He showed her a couple moves on his Tech12′s, then she learned the basics in Miami at the Scratch Academy…and now Martina is making a name for herself on the ATL nightlife scene.  You can catch Martina aka DJ MMcFlyy dj’ing every Friday night at Halo, and dj’ing at events around ATL.  Thats not bad for a newbie!!

#3 On the Scene Fashionista :

fashionably spinnin

You will never catch Martina looking anything less than Flyy! Hence the nickname that was given to her.  In order to play the part you have to look the part.  Martina is a fashionista because she’s able to switch up the looks easily and effortlessly.  She goes from girly to tomboy, hip-hop to salsa, beauty shop to thrift shop, eclectic to eccentric.  Who else do you know that can DJ in stilettos?? lol.  Her favorite places to shop in ATL are lil 5, Poncey Highland, and a variety of boutiques and thrift shops.  You can catch her on the weekends looking ultra flyy at her fav ATL night life spot, Halo.

What I failed to mention…

Is that Futurista and I took one of Martina’s “GoGo & Stiletto’s” class, it was HILARIOUS!!  Seriously, I think its confirmed that we are completely uncoordinated BUT Martina liked our moves (we still think she was just being nice LOL).  Check out this video clip to see the dancing and her critique!

Follow Martina on Twitter | @MMcFlyy and for more info on her dance classes check out Gotta Dance Atlanta!

fem-fatl.com BOTM June 2010 photo by Rodinis Photography

Ladies!!! fem-fATL would like to introduce you to June 2010′s Bachelor of the Month: Craig Sutters

It is a total coincidence that June’s B.O.T.M. is also 23 and a photographer/model… and down to earth!!!  Mr. June is a true gentleman, a family man, a go-getter, and always dressed on point… the kind of man that women in the ATL are looking for!!!  When you see him, he’s the epitome of cool, calm, and collective.  When you speak to him, you realize that he’s very sweet and charismatic… and can actually carry a conversation.  He has a lot going on for himself (check out his websites at the bottom), yet he’s still very grounded and humble.  Show the man some love!!! (while you can… cuz there is no reason he is still on the market)

Model AND Photographer ;o)

His Hobbies: Photography, Music, Basketball, Motorcycles, Traveling, and  spending quality time with the people I love.

What are you lookin at Craig?

Favorite ATL hangout spots: I used to spend lots of time riding my motorcycle to the cycle bars. More recently, I find myself at Atlantic Station or trying to discover a new place to chill. I am a real big outdoors person. Atlanta weather can be great… sometimes.

His Favorite Food: My favorite food is pasta, chicken alfredo. But I love to cook and taste the foods of the world as well. Good drinks and company complement good food.

His Ideal lady: My ideal lady has brains first, then looks. I’ve dated pretty girls who were dumb, and I owe myself an apology. Most importantly, my ideal lady is is going to upgrade me, not be a hinderance. I don’t mind babysitting… babies; not girls. Other than that, all the usual stuff… honesty, unselfishness, and just a bit of attitude to keep me [or anyone who tests her in check].

"You could be the woman in this picture." lol

Interested??? Hit him up: http://www.facebook.com/craig.sutters or twitter.com/cmacsutt

And be sure to check out his website: www.cmacsutt.com

and www.pbperiod.com

Jeff Kaplan, fem-fATL.com Bachelor of the Month, May 2010

Ladies it is that time again, time to introduce you to our New Bachelor of the Month, “Mr. May”…. Jeff Kaplan (JKap).

Jeff is a 23 year old bachelor residing in the ATL, a self-proclaimed starving artist, musician, model, actor, comedian, photographer, filmmaker… you get the idea. My first encounter with JKap (as he goes by) was years ago before I ever met him in person. I saw his film ‘Snooze’ during a Campus Movie Fest, where his film went on to win the Campus Movie Fest 2006 INTERNATIONAL BEST PICTURE. It was probably not until last year that I officially met JKap at a Lucky party where he was on the job as the events nightlife photographer. JKap is a prolific photographer capturing nightlife, fashion, art, and more. He is also a musical artist – combining his love for music with video production for self produced music videos with a comic flair. If I had to give one word to describe Jeff Kaplan, fem-fATL.com Bachelor of the Month May 2010, I’d say he’s a comedian. So ladies, if you like a guy who can make you laugh.. holla! He’s also a dead ringer for a young Johnny Depp… doesn’t hurt ;o)

Jeff Kaplan, Photo by Russell Dreyer

Jeff Kaplan, Photo By Christy Parry

Age & Bday: 23

Sign: Libra

Race: White

His Goals: While I’m young, I want to focus on my music career. Music allows me to involve all the arts i create. I get to write lyrics, perform, act in my music videos, create my music videos, market and promote, model for photography, dress how i want, etc. As i push my music career i would like to continue acting, auditioning, and creating my own films as often as i can. The acting career should start to become the main focus in my late 20s early 30s. I hope to start a family of my own around the age of 35. At that time i will most likely begin focusing more on the Film Directing and Producing side of the business all the while maintaining to continue acting. There will be countless opportunities that will come with doing all this that I’m sure there will be many other goals that will form but these plans are my core desires. I truly don’t plan to stop doing any of it. I love to do it all and i plan to never stop.

His Hobbies: I find ways to incorporate all my hobbies into my profession. Film, Photography, & Music are my main passions. Check out my website @ www.JKAP.tv

His Favorite Music: I appreciate all types of music. I could listen to anything. It all depends on my mood. At the moment i have Frou Frou in good rotation.

Favorite ATL hangout spots: I work in a lot of ATL hot spots taking pictures for events. I’ve worked in almost all of ‘em. I can enjoy any place with the right mentality and the right people. On nights when I’m not working i like to go have some real fun at places like MJQ, El Bar, Graveyard.

His Favorite Food: Sushi, Great Wraps, & the Sopa De Pollo @ El Toro on Roswell Rd, in Sandy Springs.

His Ideal lady: Someone unique. A girl that stands out. She has to be passionate of something. I must see an independent drive in her. I want her love for me to be consistent and unconditional. Style is very important, i love it when its unpredictable. I must be kept on my toes. I need a girl that every time i see her i smile uncontrollably. i love funky haircuts. Personality is most important. She must have a brain backed with beauty. she must have respect for herself. i dont want a girl that thinks shaking her ass in my face is gonna win me over. She must have an open mind and be a positive person. She must be reasonable. She has to be in many ways better than me. She must make me better than i am without her… Basically a Fem-fATL girl ;o)

Things that attract him to a female: Everything. I can find something attractive in everyone of you.

Okay ladies, now its time for you to do your job!!!

Interested??? Hit him up: http://twitter.com/iamjkap | Facebook

And be sure to check out his website: http://jkap.tv/

Ladies it is that time again, time to introduce you to our New Bachelor of the Month, “Mr. April”….Anthony Ingram.

Anthony is a 23 year old bachelor originally from CALI, Los Angeles to be exact.  Anthony is very intelligent and is an extreme people person.  He loves to be surrounded by people who exude positive energy.  He is a great guy to know, you can always catch him flashing his killer smile, and you can plan to always have a blast whenever your around him. He attends Ga State University, where he is studying Business Economics.  Besides that, his passion is music, and he is now achieving his dreams by launching DreamCatcher Entertainment.  Anthony is an extremely sweet guy, who is single and ready to find the ATL lady that will change that.  Don’t let this musical and entrepreneurial good looking guy get away!

Anthony Ingram

Age & Bday: 23

Sign: Sagitarius

Race: Black

His Goals: To be successful and Enjoy Life… Entrepreneurial Spirit since the age of 6. I plan on operating several business ventures so that eventually I will have multiple streams of revenue to ensure and sustain Financial Stability
Educational Background: Georgia State University

His Hobbies: MUSIC! I absolutely LOVE music… It makes my soul happy, lol. I love hanging with friends and family & entertaining. Figured i might as well fuse the two! Dreamcatcher Entertainment is the offspring, if u will, of my two passions. Lol

His Favorite Music: I love all music from classical to rock but i would have to say that R&B is my favorite… More than likely due largely in part to my child hood years when my Pops would play Old School music on Saturdays while waxing his car.  One of my favorite memories.

Favorite ATL hangout spots: Chocolate Soul Lounge – I put on a vocal open mic night every Thursday at The Chocolate Bar, a night of Musical BLISS. 253 Trinity ave. next to Icon and Vice. $5 cover and $5 cocktails ALL night long! LIVE band, GOOD music, GREAT time! Some come out and enjoy with me!

His Favorite Food: Im a cali boy… Therefore my upbringing has a high influence on my favorite food… What other food would a Cali boy love other than MEXICAN! Mmmmmm.. Lol
What he has to offer a girl: What can i offer a girl… Hmmm… Well ideally, im the perfect catch, LOL. Nah, let me stop.  But I have drive, tenacity, passion, and smarts.  Parents LOVE me, lol… Im a Romantic, its the little things some times.  And when I love, i love HARD

His Ideal lady: Respectable and classy. Someone who is about something who also follows her passions and aspirations in life.

Things that attract him to a female: I love an intelligent woman with the looks to match. Physical attributes would include a nice lips, nice smile, straight white teeth,  fit, always on point with an impeccable fashion sense. I LOVE a girl that is fly. So so sexy. lol

Okay ladies, now its time for you to do your job!!!

Interested???  Hit him up: twitter.com/aingram3 |  Facebook.com/dreamcatcherant

And be sure to check out his weekly Open Mic night, hosted by Dreamcatcher Ent.  Every Thurs @ Chocolate Bar in ATL!

Photography by Jenifer Vandagriff

ATL — I’m a big supporter of hometown artists and quick to download tracks and mix tapes when I spot a link to local talent. When I first heard Jet Set Radio by BreFontaine, it had been shuffled randomly in my iTunes playlist and I had mistaken the verses for Lupe Fiasco. I suppose it was that laid back, but affirmative, just cool… vibe I got from the beat & lyrics. Although, a departure from the harsher, heated sound he’s known for, Fontaine’s Jet Set Radio shows he’s got a cool air about him too.

The more I listen to Jet Set Radio, the more faded becomes my Lupe comparison, but forgive me I’m only an amateur/part-time hip-hop head and I’ve got lots to learn. Even still, when I interviewed Atlanta hip hop artist BreFontaine, he was a-okay with the side by sides. The reason being is that Fontaine has a philosophy about the flow of music and the inevitability of producing similar sounds. In an interview with Fontaine, he explained his perspective by referencing a quote by 50 Cent:

When you hear a song and it makes you feel a certain way, you want to make another person feel the same way. You get similar sounds because of the recycling of creativity.

Jet Set Radio is the latest leak from a mix tape titled Lock, Stock, & Cigarette Burns out later this spring. Behind the single is production by Producer Kyle “Proski” Stewart and vocalist/A-town home girl Joy Tolentino. Jet Set Radio is certainly a recycling of creativity from its concept to production. At a production level, the beat features a sample from the soundtrack song Mother’s Theme off of the 1973 Black Exploitation film The Mack. The film’s tagline: They’re doing the job the cops can’t! Although a fun bit of trivia, the song has little to nothing to do with the concept of the song.

By the title your first thought, like mine, may have been that Fontaine’s intention was to make allusions to the faded notion of jet setting. The term to jet set was popularized in the 1950s to describe the behavior of wealthy and elite individuals who would participate in social activities around the world. Like The Mack, the 1950s notion of jet setting has little to do with the song either. Jet Setting and its reference to wealth and luxury would be all too uninventive a reference to hip hop and a bit far fetched for the indie artist BreFontaine. Instead, the artist pulls his inspiration from the 2000 Dreamcast video game of the same name: Jet Set Radio. Ding! Ding! Ding! Of course it should be all too obvious, but unless you were 1) Japanese 2) a guy 3) a gamer or 4) more culturally aware you probably would not have caught that reference either.

Photography by Jenifer Vandagriff

The game Jet Set Radio was released in Japan and later as Jet Grind Radio in North America. Although US sales were relatively weak, the game garnered a cult following throughout the years in the gaming community, particularly in part to its eclectic and critically acclaimed soundtrack. Fontaine’s tribute to the game harkens back to his younger days. The game itself is about urban youth called rudies (gang members) in Japan roaming the streets spraying and skating as a form of self-expression. In the game, Jet Set Radio is a pirate radio station hosted by a DJ character called Professor K, who provides story narration and diegetic game clues. The game was praised for its amazing soundtrack that combined J-pop, techno, house, Acid, hip hop, and funk. Understanding the reference makes all the sense in the world. Jet Set Radio IS hip hop- or what it ought to be. At least it’s the type of hip hop attached to the streets and not the type attached to the high life. It is the portrayal of the colorful cityscape and the feeling of youthfulness in the video game that provided Fontaine his authorial aims and lyrical references. Jet Set Radio the song, is a feel good song about riding, the freedom, opportunity, excitement of youth mirrored by the same qualities that exist in the city which always stays young. The underlying beat lends a building excitement matching the songs exuberance of that feeling of looking forward. It’s also a song that delivers the all too good feeling that- the night is forever young.

That’s how I imagine it. Listening to it over and over, I’ve developed an image in my mind. It starts just before dusk, sometime on a warm summer day. The sky is the color of a glass of Blue Moon w/ an orange slice. You’ve been hanging with your boys all day, getting into trouble, laughing and cracking jokes on the crazy girls in your class (I’m a guy in this imagination – lol). And your just thinking, what’s next- the night is young and the windows open to whatever we want to get into! Then I think about riding round with the windows open, playing some good hip hop beats as your ride around town looking for something to get into, friends to visit, places to pre-game. For me, the song is all about ridin’ and traversing the city- similar to Grand Theft Auto, a game with a similar vein as Jet Set Radio. The sun goes down and then the city is lit with lights and you’ve never felt more alive and you’re about to go party like a rock star to prove it! It feels good to be young. Oh what a feeling! There is a luxury after all in Bre’s notion of jet setting and it’s the freedom of youth and the possibility for adventure that the city provides – if you are in for the ride.

Photography by Jenifer Vandagriff

Before interviewing Bre, I didn’t know his moniker BreFontaine was just a stage name. Like many of our screen names that we created from back when the Internet was a noob (I had jenizyomama, twolipz876, urbeautyqueen876, etc), the pseudonym stuck for BreFontaine. Unlike my aliases of yester-decade, the name comes from the track star legend Pre Fontaine. Fontaine chose the name back in the day to create a metaphor with his goals, which was trying to break track records musically! A lot of older people who know the track star are impressed with the slick association that most of us, again, might miss.

Fontaine got his start at making music at a young age, but has only been recording for about 8 years, which is enough time to make him mature and smart about the music business, and his own artistic directions. I use to work for a college advisor for undecided majors, and one thing she would tell all the undecided freshmen is that you aren’t suppose to know what you want to do with the rest of your life at 18! And I think it’s the same with music. Few young artists have enough experience musically or in life to assert artistic control, especially when it comes to big labels. Fontaine on the other hand has been making music long enough, he’s not the new kid on the block, but he does have new music out. And his first leak Jet Set Radio is an indication that he’s definitely grown up. I think his fans will attest to the musical growth as well.

Jet Set Radio actually caught a lot of Bre’s older fan base off guard. His older music was more aggressive with rhyme scheme galore. He said at the time people wanted to hear stuff like Eminem. They wanted to hear more words and feel what you were all about. Like Em, Fontaine was known for his beasting, an up-tempo rhyme scheme, and harsh on the tone. Fontaine’s latest music moves in a new direction with a stronger compliment of both aggressive tones and smooth sounds.

Born and raised in College Park, ATL, GA, Fontaine is unmistakably a southern gentleman although his music can’t be cast as having an ATL sound. With roots as an actor, rather than a musician, Fontaine looks at music the way an actor would look at a script. It’s always a new interpretation and he feeds off others. He draws inspiration from all sorts of artists from different walks of life and area codes from Eminem to Dean Martin. And Lupe of course. Fontaine says: To have a specific sound, regional wise, is limiting your possibility as a musician. As if to make only one type of sound.

Of the Atlanta music scene, Fontaine feels it is at present crowded with both the good and the bad. Atlanta is on right now and attracting so much attention that a lot of bad gets mixed in with the good; sometimes bringing the good down. On this he tells me: It’s been a long time since someone came out with something good to say and make you want to dance at the same time- like OutKast.

Interestingly, Fontaine went to the same high school as the duet. So while he doesn’t have a particular “ATL sound”, it’s not to say classic ATL artists like OutKast don’t influence him. His new feel good song, is perhaps an answer to his frustrations with ATL music. At the end of the day, BreFontaine says he is thankful that so much attention is on Atlanta music right now, because… it could be elsewhere.

Listen to more of BreFontaine’s music on Myspace at www.myspace.com/fontainelegacy and connect with him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/brefontaine for the latest news and updates of this ATL jetsetter.

This outspoken ATL chick is talented, funny & driven.  Every second of the day she is thinking about her next move to become one of the top radio personalities…

Brittane “ChinaGirl” Thames was born in Jackson, MS and raised in Marietta “Maytown,” GA. She is currently majoring in Marketing with a minor in Mass Communication at the University of West GA.  I met Brittane wayyy back during our Freshman year at UWG, and she’s been one of my closest homegirls ever since!  Now she’s ready to take the next career step, and she is ready for everyone to hear her work!    Sooo after long nights of working she has finalized her mix-tape, so that everyone can hear her funny ass personality.

Where in the hell did you come up with your name?

It was actually given to me by a close friend of mine and I kinda decided to run with it cause it’s cute and my eyes do slant a little lol

When you wake up what are the 1^st 3 things that come to mind?

(1) Dang i’m horny… (2) I wonder if I can borrow that boy book cause I damn sho’ ain’t bout to pay no hundred dollars for this effin book (3) Ooh my curls are still bouncing back when I run my fingers thru my hair, no need to use a comb lol

What is your #1 thing to do? & Why?

Besides making YouTube videos speaking in third person about how my tight my never loosened curls will get me to the top!…I would have to say talk about sex!! It may sound a little absurd. But it’s true! You can learn something new anytime you have a conversation about sex…it’s like the best subject ever in life!!

Who inspired you to put out a mix-tape?

Hmmm…I would have to say this guy by the name of Kenneth Gordon. I remember me and my friends free styling on his MacBook, and him thinking we were absolutely hilarious. I went on to tell him how I wanted to be a radio personality, and he was just like you should make a mix-tape. It’s just been ongoing since then…you can’t get me off that MacBook!

What makes your mix-tape different than others?

The fact that I’m not a rapper or a singer or some Top Club DJ, I don’t have any of those talents…but I do have the gift of gabb! I love to talk and can make a joke out of absolutely anything. Whether you like it or not, I’m definitely gonna keep it real wit ya. My mixtape however is just a whole bunch funny skits and imitations of what radio personalities during a regular radio session. Radio stations call it an air-check…but I call it Made in China Vol.1 (The UnEdited Demo)

Why the name Made In China?

I named it “Made It China“ for the simple reason that people are always questioning my tattoo,  and my motivation behind it… or why do they call her “Chinagirl”?!?  So I decided to sum it all up in this mixtape by introducing the world to ChinaGirlRadio.

How long have you been working on it?

Actually, since about July 2009.

What artists can we find on your mix-tape?

Well, I have songs from your favorite artists like Lil Wayne to Kings of Leon.  And a lot of up and coming artists such as Jashawn Sharks, THG, Waiz, 80 karrot kid, and Sean Teezy.

Who is your role-model? & Why?

Howard Stern of course, I wanna be just like him when I grow up. He has so many listeners and gets to say whatever the hell he wants!! Oh oh oh and Shelia E, she is so freakin hot to me!! Like if I was back in the 80’s, when she was hot, I swear we would have been best friends.  Real talk, I’m like a mini Sheila E. minus the drum set and her to skills to rap.  Yeah were pretty much identical lol.

Listen to Made In China, Vol.1 & let us know what you think!

Made In China Vol.1

Donnita Hathaway

Twitter has provided us with a way to constantly meet new and interesting people……

I will proudly admit, I urbanSocialite AM A TWITTER ADDICT.  I am always down to follow average people who seem interesting, have similar career goals as myself, or people who at least have something entertaining to tweet on a daily basis (follow @lilduval, thats some pure entertainment right there).

So one day I happened to stumble upon the Twitter page of a woman by the name of Donnita Hathaway (@donnitacamille).  Her last name stuck out to me, but what also really caught my eye was her bio, “Chi-town girl, who now lives in A! I’m the PA for Musiq Soulchild, proud daughter of a musical legend. Love life & myself!“.   I was blown away.  She’s got the bomb ass job of being the Personal Assistant to Musiq Soulchild, one of the Hottest R&B stars out there (who I am a MAJOR fan of), she resides in ATL, and ON TOP OF THAT she’s the daughter of musical royalty Donny Hathaway (and anyone who knows me knows that I have been listening to the music of Mr. Hathaway since the age of 5)…so need I say more??  I knew right then and there, Donnita needed to be featured on fem-fATL pronto.

So I immediately contacted her via twitter, asked if I could interview her for fem-fATL, and she gladly agreed.  Besides the fact that she has a famous father, and works in an industry where she is around famous people on a constant basis, Donnita is a down to earth sweetheart.  Originally from Chi-town, Donnita is now an official ATLien.  She is a 33 year old female who is driven, intelligent, and yet is still down to have fun with a good laugh. Check out the interview I did of her below, she’s got a very interesting background.   You will see that she is the true definition of her late fathers famous song, “To be Young, Gifted And Black“, as well as the definition of a fem-fATL.

How did you become a Personal Asst. for Musiq Soulchild? How long have you been his PA?

5 Years.   Musiq was someone I was blessed to become friends with. He was a fan of my fathers (Donny Hathaway) & I was a fan of his. I love helping people so I asked him in 2002.  In 2004 I got the call!

What has it been like being a PA for one of the best R&B artists that are out there today?

I love it! It is hard work but it doesn’t seem like “WORK” Especially since I’m blessed to be working for one of my best friends!!!

I know that many people would KILL to have your awesome job.  So describe the typical day-to-day activities for a Celeb Personal Assistant.

It really depends on whether we are on the road or not. If on the road there are generally radio station interviews, early morning wake up calls, sound check, meet & greet and the show.  So there’s prepping for those events ie gathering clothes, making tea, getting something to eat. I like to make sure that his band is ok….things of that nature.

What is your ultimate goal…where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hope to have a family while still working. I want to blossom into a beautiful graceful woman!

What is the 1 thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I don’t sing!!!!!

What are some of the perks that come along with your job?

I like to see when Musiq’s fans tell him that his songs has done something to change their lives. I think that’s awesome because I know that’s what Musiq’s intent is.  And….. every now & then I get some free clothes!

Where are some of the interesting places that your job has allowed you to travel to?

Japan, South Africa, Europe & Indonesia.
Indonesia was interesting because there are so many rich & poor people. There’s no medium. Just driving from the airport some of Jakarta looks 3rd world other parts looks like heaven. It’s really something to experience.

Who are some of the interesting celebs that you have met?  Have you met any of your idols (what happened when you met them, did you freak out?)
I’ve meet a lot of celebs before I got this job. One person that I met just last week that I just loved was Jennifer Hudson! I love when artist perform any of my fathers music. I was at a show of hers and jumped out of my seat when she sang ‘I believe in music” which is not known to many. So it was a risk especially with where she is in her career. So I had to tell her thank you for that & she’s also a Chicago girl. She was surprised to meet me & was very sweet.  I don’t “freak out”, I feel at home.

When you want to chill, where are some of your fav hangout spots in ATL?

Ummmm I’m still trying to find that out? Lol  I love to laugh so Uptown Comedy Club is a must. Atlantic Station is cool.

Whats the 1 word you would use to describe yourself, and why?

Silly! I love to laugh and have fun even if it’s to my own amusement.

Coming from a musical family, how do you feel about music today?  Who are some of the top artists in your opinion that are keeping GOOD music alive?

I’m not a huge fan of some of what’s mainstream. I’m more of a underground baby. But more so the stuff that is aimed at kids is just that.
Artist keeping good music alive? There’s A LOT! Of course Musiq Soulchild, my sister Lalah Hathaway, India.Arie, Jill, Scott.  I also dig Hip Hop. Kanye West, Jay-Z, Common, I love the creative nature of J*Davey & N.E.R.D just to name a few.

You come from an extremely talented music royalty family, with your father being an R&B legend, and your sister Lalah Hathaway being an extremely awesome singer as well.  Have you ever wanted to venture into singing yourself?

No ma’am! Lol I will leave the singing to the professionals .Because this business is a tough one I’d rather be on the other side of things.

I consider myself an old-soul, and I’m such a HUGE fan of your father, I cherish the vinyl albums that I own of his music.  “Someday We’ll All be Free” is my favorite song and it provides such an inspiration.  What is your favorite song from your father’s music, and why? …there are so MANY to choose from.

“Sack full of dreams” hands down. The music, the lyrics, the delivery is all perfect to me.

Your father’s music and lyrics have influenced many of today’s R&B artists. What is the best advice or lesson that your father gave you?
I was 2 when my father passed so I don’t have anything personal but I do use his music as a tool. I can go back to a song like “Sack full of dreams” and say “I know daddy would want me to be happy and make my dreams come true & love life!”

Her nails look good. lol

fem-fATL wants YOU to ANSWER BOTH: 1) Can good sex create a mature relationship? 2) Can good sex hold a relationship together?

I got this question from a friend’s facebook status message and enjoyed the roar of comments that followed.  Here’s what the ladies had to say:

I would love to think so… because if it is not good it sure knows how to mess a relationship up

Good sex can create a relationship,I’ve been a witness to that. Good sex can hold a relationship too,but not it alone.

Yes to both

yes and no, unless its purely a sexual relationship

Sex shouldn’t be the bases of a relationship, but friendship should.You can always learn to have good sex with some one you love to call your best friend, from the old school son!

My personal experience no.. Because that’s we based on our relationship on.. And most of the time it’s the girl who falls first that’s wants the change the sex into a relationship where the man was always just content with the good sex. But honestly sex is better when 2 ppl are trully into eachother in a committed form so yes that can make it last..

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

a real, mature and lasting relationship CANNOT be created or held together by good Sex alone ….

I dont think it can be created by good sex. Possibly enhanced, but not created. It may trick u into thinking u can have a relationship wit that person, but it takes more than sex to make it work. I mean a good, fun, exciting sex life is important…very important, but its not everything.

Living in Atlanta, chances for a winter white Christmas are slim to none. Living in the South sometimes makes it difficult to get into the whole holiday spirit, but don’t think for a second there’s nothing to do this winter season. The holidays is actually a very exciting time in the city. There is surprisingly many art and cultural events taking place in the city to celebrate and be merry. I’ve compiled a list of 15 things in Atlanta to do this winter… this month! As you will see, the majority of items on the list are performances. The holiday season is one of the best times to go out with friends, family, or a loved one and enjoy a classic Christmas story in whatever form or fashion that may be. I hope you’ll be able to get out to one of these events and experience a little bit of the Atlanta holiday spirit!

1. Fem-fATL hosts FEVER PARTY

@ Halo Lounge
December 18 @ 10PM

http://fem-fatl.com/2009/celebrate-fem-fatl-bday-girls-at-fever-party-this-friday/

Come join the ladies of fem-fATL as we celebrate the birthdays of Kristen (UrbanSocialite) and Brittany (justB). This is one holiday party you don’t want to miss… because it’s ours!

2. World of Coca-Cola

http://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/
November 27 – January 1

Coca-Cola & Ol' Saint Nick

When I was a kid I use to visit in Atlanta and my uncle would take me and my cousins to the old Coca-Cola museum near the Underground. As kids we’d binge on all the taste tests from around the world and come walking out with a buzz like we were drunk!

I haven’t yet been to the new World of Coca-Cola, but Coca-Cola is staple of Atlanta living and also an icon of the winter season. This season when you visit the World of Coca-Cola you can take fun holiday pictures with a classic Coca-Cola Santa painting by artist Haddon Sundbloml.

Also, while you are at it, check out the special exhibit Celebrating an Icon. The exhibit celebrates artistic interpretations of the iconic soft drink, featuring the work of five contemporary artists from Georgia and Cali. The featured artists include: Steve Penley, Gordon Chandler, Comer Jennings, Steve Kaufman and Burton Morris.

3. Holiday Lights & Ice Skating

@ Centennial Olympic Park
November 14 – January 3 @ Daily, 7 a.m. – 11p.m. (Ice Skating hours vary)

http://twitter.com/centennial_park

It’s never too cliché to take a winter walk in the park and Centennial Olympic park is really very beautiful during the winter season. The park is perfect for a date or a stroll with the family after dinner. Try out one of the nearby restaurants like Stats, Rise Sushi, or Endenu Restaurant & Bar. Afterward grab some coffee or hot chocolate as you walk around the park. Make sure to check out the fountain of rings, which I think is even more beautiful against the background of colorful Christmas lights. Of course, do the ice-skating… especially if you have kids. If not, you can probably find better ice-skating somewhere else. Finally, it’s cold this winter, so make sure you bring a heavy coat!

4. Atlanta Ballet

@ Fox Theatre
December 11 – 27

http://twitter.com/atlantaballet

I’ve never seen the Atlanta Ballet; although I have seen the Nutcracker performed during the holidays and I think it’s one of those holiday performances that are really magical. I recently saw a performance by the ballet troupe gloATL; which has me interested in ballet with this show on my list of things to watch. Tickets start at $20, which isn’t so bad. Also, for one night only, the Atlanta Ballet is performing a comedic take on the classic piece called The Nutty Nutcracker. So if you don’t want to watch a rerun, this would be the one to attend.

For tickets visit the website or call 1-800-982-2787

The NutCracker
December 11-27, 2009
Choreographed by John McFall

The Nutty Nutcracker
One night only. Dec. 20, 2009
A hilarious take on the classic

5. Invasion: Christmas Carol

@ Dad’s Garage
Now – December 23 @ 8PM (Thursday – Wednesday and no show on Dec. 21)

http://twitter.com/Dads_Garage

I’ve been to one Dad’s Garage performance and I thought it was ridiculous. If you are looking for some holiday humour, then this is your bet. There isn’t too much else to say… just look at the picture! It looks like Ali G and Scrooge… who knows with this group! Tickets are $15-$20.

For tickets visit http://www.dadsgarage.com/
Dad’s Garage, 280 Elizabeth St. 404-523-3141

6. The BIG Freeze: A Holiday Spectacular

@ Eyedrum
December 18 &19

http://twitter.com/Eyedrum

I’ve been to my fair share of Eyedrum exhibits and performances, so I know it’s the place to go when looking for a bit of avante garde in Atlanta. I know nothing about Vagina Jenkins and Johny Drago, but from reading the performance excerpt, it sounds colorful and intense. I’m looking at the 19th date.

“Come celebrate–and denigrate–the winter holidays with death-defying aerial acts, sexy circus stunts, musical merriment, puppetry of perplexing proportions, and gender-bending drag stars! Co-produced by the Queen of Queer Burlesque and Ecdysiast Exemplar Vagina Jenkins and rabble-rouser of the lowbrow theatre, Johnny Drago.” -Eyedrum

7. Holiday: A Very Merry Holiday Pops

@ Atlanta Symphony Hall
December 18 – 19

http://twitter.com/atlantasymphony

The symphony is one of my favorite things to attend in Atlanta. I’ve been to a good handful of concerts by now; but I’ve never seen them do a Christmas variety show! A variety show should be family friendly. The show includes sounds from the Lassiter and Walton High School choirs. Who doesn’t want to see richy/snobby high school students in Cobb County sing Christmas carols! I don’t really, but it could be entertaining!

“Conductor Michael Krajewski and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra present A VERY MERRY HOLIDAY POPS. Incorporating a modern twist on the traditional holiday variety show, Krajewski leads the orchestra, as well as the Lassiter and Walton High School choirs, through multiple holiday classics including a special rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Throw in a dancing Santa and piano juggler Dan Menendez, and the audience will be rocking around the Christmas tree long after the show ends. $18-$48. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m. Atlanta Symphony Hall, 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-4900.“

8. Music: ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’

@ The Earl
December 19 @ 9PM

http://twitter.com/Earl_EAV

This guy looks crazy and I love A Charlie Brown Christmas so I think this is one show I’m seriously going to check. Look at his socks!

“In what is quickly becoming an Atlanta Christmas tradition, Jeffrey Bützer and friends return to perform the music of VINCE GUARALDI’S “A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS.” Bützer plays drums in a trio that features pianist T.T. Mahony and Adrian Ash on bass. Before the “Charlie Brown” set, Bützer will play a solo show of cinematic numbers in which he single-handedly mans an accordion, piano, bass and high hat. Locals El Capitan and Mr. Grinder Nova warm things up with a set of holiday surf music. $7. 9 p.m. The Earl, 488 Flat Shoals Ave. 404-522-3950. www.badearl.com. “

9. Scripture for the Eyes: Bible Illustration in Netherlandish Prints of the 16th Century

@Michael C. Carlos Museum
Continues through January 24 (Tuesdays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays, noon-4 p.m)

http://twitter.com/carlosmuseum

If you are a big History Channel person (like myself when I have cable) then I think you will find this exhibit interesting. It’s got politics, religion, and history… all the ingredients to be either really boring or fascinating. This one will be around through most of January, so you have some time to make your way over.

“A collection of approximately 80 engravings and woodcuts by the foremost Dutch and Flemish masters of the 16th century. The exhibition, featuring works by Lucas van Leyden, Maarten van Heemskerck, Dirck Volkertszoon Coornhert and Hieronymus Wierix, explores the ways in which printed illustrations of biblical and other religious themes supplemented and magnified the texts they accompanied during a period of dramatic religious and political upheaval. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 24. Free-$8. Michael C. Carlos Museum, 571 S. Kilgo Circle, Atlanta (Druid Hills/Emory), 404-727-4282”

10. Black Nativity

@ Southwest Arts Center
December 27

http://twitter.com/kltruecolors

One thing about gospel singers is they are always good and in the South, you know they have soul. So of course, when you have a Christmas gospel celebration, you should just expect a good show. The True Colors Theatre Company will be showing Black Nativitity, a Langston Hughes play through December 27. Tickets cost $30; which is a bit on the hefty side, but check reviews and see if you think it’s worth it.

“This gospel telling of the Christmas story is a soul-stirring musical celebration told through the combination of scripture, poetry, dance and song that connects a contemporary church revival to the time of mangers and swaddling clothes.”

For tickets: www.truecolorstheatre.org. Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road, Atlanta (West End/Atlanta University), 404-505-3220, www.fultonarts.org”

11. Amahl and the Night Visitors

@ Balzer Theatre at Herren’s
Through December 23

http://twitter.com/theatOutfit

I enjoy emo! And this story, a haunting music by Gian Carlo Menotti, is about a crippled child, his poverty-stricken mother, and the night a traveling magi from the East seeks rest with them. I have a feelin it ends well, but seems ok to me. Tickets run $15-25.

For Tickets: Call 678-528-1500, www.theatricaloutfit.org.
Balzer Theatre at Herren’s, 84 Luckie St., Atlanta (Downtown Atlanta).

12. The Shoemaker & the Elves

@ Center for Puppetry Arts
Through January 3

http://twitter.com/ctrpuppetryarts

Oh how I’ve wanted to go to the Center for Puppetry Arts all these years. With tickets costing just between $9-16 this is a holiday show you should just go ahead and book. It’s sure to be cute and funny and when have you ever gone to see a puppet show!?!

“Mel and Tootsie Footmeyer have kept their shoe store open for 42 years, but business is not booming as it once was. Enter Frankie and Gino, two bumbling, lovable elves who have nothing but time on their hands and a burning desire to build, build, build. Saturdays, 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m., Sundays, 1 & 3 p.m. and Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 & 11:30 a.m. Continues through Jan. 3. $9-$16. Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St., Atlanta (Midtown), 404-873-3391, www.puppet.org, Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.”

13. Cavalia

@ Atlantic Station
Through January 3

http://twitter.com/cavalia

If you have seen those big white tents up, looking like a circus, in Atlantic Station, then you have seen the home to this show. Cavalia is a large-scale equestrian production. It’s like Cirque du Soleil but with horses! Ummm… awesome! But pricy… fail.

“Incredible performances from more than 60 horses, acrobats, aerialists, riders, musicians, and dancers. Tuesdays-Fridays, 8 p.m., Saturdays, 3 & 8 p.m. and Sundays, 2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 3. $34-$109, 866-999-8111, www.cavalia.net. Atlantic Station, 371 17th St., Atlanta (Midtown), 404-733-1221, www.atlanticstation.com”

14. Larry, Carlos, & Mo!

@ Fox Theatre
Monday, December 21 @ 6PM

http://twitter.com/THEFOXTHEATRE

I’m going to just list some keywords here: Free, Fox Theatre, Organ, Sing-Along, Free, Big Band, A Christmas Story, Movie, Free
A free annual holiday event at Fox Theatre! However, tickets will be tough to find, especially this late in the game. Call in or try the box office.

An Organ Concert and Sing-Along with the Fox Theatre’s organist in residence Larry-Douglas Embury playing the Mighty Mo organ and featuring Joe Gransden with his 16-Piece Big Band and The Gwinnett Young Singers.

A Christmas Story
A Tribute to the Original, Traditional, One-Hundred-Percent, Red-Blooded, Two-Fisted, All-American Christmas…

Doors Open at 6:00 pm, Holiday Sing-Along begins at 7:00pm

15. Scrooge in Rouge

@ 14th Street Playhouse
Through December 27

14th Street Playhouse

I’ve never been to the 14th Street Playhouse, but have always heard good things. Again, if looking for some holiday humor and some giggling, try this play out. Otherwise, I’m exhausted with this list!

“A three-actor gem that highlights the notable virtuosity of an acting trio as they create a well-delineated cast of more than 20 characters. The show provides giddy games of gender, identity, reality and theatricality, all within the framework of the music hall at its early height in 1843. Sundays, 2 p.m. and Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 27. $36.50. 14th Street Playhouse, 173 14th St., Atlanta (Midtown), 404-733-4750”

And that’s all folks!
Have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Celebrate December babies Kristen & Brittany of fem-fATL this Friday at Halo!

Come join the ladies of fem-fATL as we celebrate the Birthday’s of Kristen (UrbanSocialite) and Brittany (justB).

Kristen aka urban$ocialite

Brittany aka justB

It might be cold outside, but this Friday we are gonna have the FEVER celebrating 2 of the hottest December babies in ATL: Kristen (Urban$ocialite) and Brittany (justB)!

Champagne Reception from 10-11PM
Photo booth by Oh Snap Kid!
Where: Halo Lounge – 8.07.09 @ 11 PM
Hosted By: fem-fATL
Sounds By: Skooter, Cullen Cole, and Sofa King
FREE before Midnight with RSVP to noizersvp@gmail.com
Special Thanks to: Cobra Corps/Perishable Fame/+FRESH.i.AM+/Oh Snap Kid!/Noize Industry