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Believe In Your Gift

If you don’t believe in what you’ve been given, who will? The question that’s been floating around in my mind for quite some time now. Too often we have gifts and ideas that we just sit on. We sit on them, waiting for the right time to execute. Or we wait because we don’t feel like we’re not in the right position. Then there are those times where we doubt our gifts, and feel as if it’s not good enough. But is there ever a perfect time to pursue our dreams using what we’ve been given?

These past couple of weeks have pushed my thinking a little further. I’ve been put in situations where I literally had to question if I believed in myself and in my gift enough. The place I’m currently in is not the place I’m supposed to be in, and that has a lot to do with the way I use what I’ve been given. About two weeks ago, I was in conversation via email with someone about an opportunity that I wanted to be involved in for quite some time. The person I was conversing with, went really hard about whether I’m qualified for the opportunity. To be honest, my first thought was to just back down. I then had to tell myself to get it together. I’m not where I want to be, but I’m nowhere near the place that I started. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am, and I refuse to allow someone to think that I’m not good enough. After I checked Krystle, I finally replied to the email, not knowing or even worrying about the response I’d get. I then received an email letting me know that the opportunity was mine. 

The only reason I was able to get this opportunity is because I believed in my gift and my ability. I reminded myself of who I am, and what I have. And I stood firm in that, with confidence. Too often we doubt ourselves and possibly allow opportunities to showcase what we have to slip right out of our hands. 

This is one of the post important steps to fulfilling our purpose, believing in ourselves enough to show up. There’s room despite how you feel people perceive you, or despite the negative thoughts that often try to crowd your mind. It’s important that in those moments, you combat it immediately. Positive affirmation, confirming who you are will begin to shift your thinking. 

I wrote a post this week on Instagram that read, “you secure your seat at the table when you show up.” All we have to do is show up. Regardless of the questions, whether others think we have the qualifications or not, and despite the doubt. Allow your belief in your gift to overpower that, and just show up. And this is exactly how your passion will be fulfilled. You’ll go far beyond the place you thought you’d go. You’ll reach far more people you could’ve imagined. All because you dared to believe and show up.

Again, believe in your gift enough to show up! Blessings, 
-xo Miss Jones

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Tha L. Spot Ent. & PR LLC

Tha L Spot Ent. and PR, LLC is a company that provides public relations services to clients in music, special events, event planning, and photography. They focus on networking and recognizing talents, brands, and the community. Tha L Spot also focuses on creating and giving opportunities for those who wish to gain experience in any of the fields listed above. Along with this, they also have their own blog. Founder and CEO, Jessica Lanice started this company because she wanted to bring people into her world. Being surrounded by talented people, she wanted to give them exposure. Before graduating with a degree in public relations, she decided to write about the wonderful talent she experienced on her blog. Upon graduating, we decided to start her company. 

On Thursday, March 12th CEO Jessica Lanice and Tha L. Spot PR company, celebrated their third year anniversary with a concert held at the Roulette Theatre in Brooklyn, NY. The show was hosted by the very funny, Charlie Wilson, whom we’ve had the pleasure of interviewing on the site. But before he rose to the stage, Micheal Mills and Ms KG hit the stage ginger the crowd rocking, along with DJ NO. 

  

Charlie came to the stage and started off with some jokes. Then he got a little serious and brought out Jessica. She talked about her company and what she sets out to do, and brought a portion of her team up with her. (Journalist, accountant, etc.)

  

(Charlie Wilson & Jessica Lanice)

 

Then Charlie shared how real R&B and Hip Hop has slipped away from us. So he was excited to have all these artist together for this concert. The show then started. 

The first artist to perform was Dave Al. He came out singing a cover of Sam Smith’s, ‘I’m Not the Only One’. He then sang a few original songs as well. Songs that were slow and intimate. Which allowed him to be close and connect with the audience. He wanted the audience to be able to hear and feel his lyrics. To hear some of his music, visit  https://soundcloud.com/dave-al. You can also connect with him on his social media networks. Twitter: twitter.com/Dave_ALMusic. IG: instagram.com/dave_almusic. FB: www.facebook.com/pages/Dave-Al/24798…

  

Next up was, Cameron Jay. He is a rapper and had the crowd rocking. To stay up to date and hear some of his music, visit his website http://www.cameronjaymusik.com. Also check out his Instagram: @cameronjaymusik. 

  

Then the group, D Limitz came out with their drums and set the crowd on fire. This is a group from East New York. They had African Drums, along with dancers. They also rapped. To hear their music, visit https://soundcloud.com/d-limitz. Also check out their Instagram: @dlimtzofficial. 

  

Before the performances continued, of course there was a little fun. There was a lot of crowd of participation. There were crowd members who got on stage and sang. Then there was a little runway as well. They audiences loved every bit of it. 

  

  

  

  

Next to perform was, Islima, who goes by Songbird. We’ve had the pleasure of interviewing her on the site. She started out with a cover of Jhene Aiko as her guitarist Elliot played in the background. She then went to singing her original music; her singles, Perfect Harmony and The Break Up. You can download her single on iTunes, Amazon, spotify, and more. Check out her Instagram as well, @islimasongbird. 

  

The very last artist to perform was Kwoat. He’s a rapper and came out and somewhat put a story to his songs. You to learn more about him and hear his music, you can visit http://allunsigned.com/kwoat-kwoatalent-songs-for-breakup/. Also visit his Instagram page, @kwoatalent. 

  

While the show was going, there was a bartender providing drinks as well as vendors. Below are the vendors:

  

(Instagram: @thecollegegirl)

  

(Instagram: @chicbychoice)

  

(Very talented artist. His work is dope. Check him out on Instagram @r.p.gallery)

  

 

(Instagram: @lilyz__closet)

  

(Instagram: @stgserious @hiphop_inthaflesh)

Lastly there was a special performance by Nathaniel’s (singer, songwriter) dancers. They came out and killed! He also brought out an artist to end the show. You can check him out on Instagram, @nathanielrnb. 

  

This was an overall great show in celebration on Tha L. Spot’s 3rd year anniversary. We definitely respect the work that’s being done on behalf of talented artists. Special thanks to Jessica Lanice and her team for the invitation. Be sure to check out and support Tha L. Spot by visiting their social media networks. Website: thalspot entpr.com. Blog: thalspot.com. Instagram: @thalspotentpr. Twitter: @thalspotentpr. 

(All pictures were taken by CeeDeeKay Photographer. Check her out on Instagram @ceedeekayphotography). 

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Sunday Evening Serenade

Sunday, September 21st, I had the pleasure of attending Sunday Evening Serenade’s one year anniversary! This event is created and hosted by Olivia Gilmore. Sunday Evening Serenade is an acoustic showcase that’s put on once every month. The purpose of this event is not only to give artists a platform to perform; it is also for all artists, vendors, and those in the entertainment and fashion industry to promote themselves and network.

SES was held at Ripley Grier Studios in the midtown area of NYC. The room was nice, quaint, and intimate with a beautiful white grand piano. Just right for an evening serenade. The featured artists of the night were, Ashton Martin, Mayo Bass, and Olivia Gilmore. Because of traffic, Natalie Imani was unable to attend.

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(Mayo Bass, Olivia Gilmore, Ashton Martin)

The evening began with great tunes playing in the background, while the audience was given an opportunity to mingle and network with one another as well as the vendors, who I must say produced great work.

Cherise Broadbelt of Reese B Designs blew me away with her collection. As her material says, it’s “Not Your Average.” Cherise has a line of bow ties (available for both women and men), clutches, and jewelry. Every bow tie and clutch is handmade by Cherise herself, with beautiful fabrics and leather. Her pieces are well put together ending with a great product. Not only are her pieces amazing, her personality is very warm and welcoming. View Reese B Designs below and visit the Instagram, @reesebdesigns, to view more and order pieces from her collection.

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(Cherise Broadbelt, Reese B Designs)

Another vendor was Tremaine Angevine, CEO of OFCC. OFCC is an urban clothing line with great designs. Every shirt, sweatshirt, hat is personally designed by Tremaine. OFCC has done many trade shows and continues to push their brand. Take a look at apart of their collection below. Also check out their website for more, http://www.ofccest1982.com.

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(Tremaine Angevine, CEO of OFCC)

Other vendors included, food by Ms. Anita G. From the raves on social media, her food was delicious. Be sure to check her out on Instagram @chefmamagarciajr.

After the brief mingling, it was time for the main show. Every artist who took the stage, was absolutely amazing.

Starting out with Ashton Martin accompanied by JT on piano. From the melodies that flowed from Ashton’s mouth Sunday evening, you could tell that he’s been doing this for some time now. He’s actually been singing since the age of 10 and composing his own songs by the age of 12. Since then, he’s been perfecting his craft and doing a great job at it. Ashton started his set with one of my personal favorites, So High by John Legend. John Legend is an amazing artist and not many can fill his shoes. However, Martin’s raspy voice fit the song perfectly. Every note in the right place. He then went to a self written song entitled, Your Body. Which is a song he wrote after a breakup and all he could think of was her embrace. His connection with the audience was amazing. You could hear every emotion while he sang as he have the perfect eye contact. He finished his set with very popular song, Superstar by Luther Vandross. Overall, great singer, songwriter, and performer. Be sure to check Ashton out on twitter and Instagram @ashtnmrtn. Also, purchase his new single “Lights Out” on iTunes.

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(Photo taken by @faceonbroadway)

Up next was the bubbly Miya Mayo Bass accompanied by Eddie C on piano. When Mayo entered the room you automatically saw her lively personality. Mayo was X Factor 2013 finalist and worked with countless recording artists. Varying from Brandy, Shirley Murdock, Mary Mary, Fantasia, Vashawn Mitchell, and more. Mayo started out with ‘Boy Band Trivia’ from her upcoming project Nostalgia. This song is a cumulation of some of the greatest boy band hits; such as Don’t Leave (Stay) by Blackstreet, It’s Over Now by 112, On Bended Knees by Boys II Men, Gone by Nsync, and 5 Steps by Dru Hill. One of the most creative songs I’ve heard. To put these amazing tracks together was amazing to hear added with her amazing vocals. She then ended with her latest single, ‘The Cure.’ This is by far one of the most powerful songs. This song was created for anyone who suffers from cancer, diabetes, and anyone who needs healing. Mayo prayed and asked God for the lyrics, and The Cure was birthed. Sunday evening she belted out these lyrics and you felt every word. To hear the song, visit http://youtu.be/OBxokN9c32M and view the official video, available for purchase on iTunes. Mayo is also currently doing a church tour where she is open to visiting churches and singing ‘The Cure.’ Stay up to date with Mayo Bass by visiting her website, http://www.miyamayobass.com.

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(Photo taken by @faceonbroadway)

Last but certainly not least, the host and creator of Sunday Evening Serenade, Miss Olivia Gilmore. After hearing about the effects of bullying, she was prompted to start out with Unpretty by TLC. Encouraging everyone to look within and find their beauty and not allow the words of others to get them to a negative place in life. After her first song, Olivia let the audience in. She explained how private of a person she was, which is understandable in this business, but grasped the crowd with her transparency that night. She talked about how SES started as well as the difficulties she’s encountered throughout this year. Although there were many obstacles that came up against her, she never gave up. She expressed her goal as an artist and how she wanted to become famous when starting out, but she never only considered herself. She created this showcase for the benefit of all artists. Olivia not only wanted to build her brand as an artist, she also wanted to help her fellow artist get ahead in the game. Which is commendable. To have had to face troubles along the way, she could’ve stopped; but she continued to maintain. Olivia also has a great personality. She kept the crowd laughing the entire night.
It was an absolute pleasure meeting Olivia and attending such a wonderful event. Special thanks for the invitation. To stay up to date with Olivia and Sunday Evening Serenade follow her Instagram @msoliviagilmore. You can also check out her music on soundcloud. You won’t be disappointed, she gave her all with every song she sang Sunday night.

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(Photo taken by @faceonbroadway)

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-Miss Jones

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BXC Music Festival

Saturday, September 20th at Santos Party House, BXC Studios put on a showcase featuring fifteen artists of diverse genres, ranging from R&B, Hip Hop, and Rock. There were also art vendors displaying their work. This event was a way to collaborate the film and music industry, bridging the gap between the two. These artists were given a platform to display their talents to a full audience. The BXC Music Festival also gave everyone in attendance an opportunity to network.

Review below submitted by Marcelle Ceide:

BXC brought the crowd the hypest performers Saturday Night 9/20/14 at Santos Party House. We as the audience were not only given the opportunity to enjoy different genres of music (Hip Hop, Soul, R&B, Rock…) but the performers were given an opportunity to do what they love the most, … “perform”.

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(Photo by Glen Graham Photography)

Backstage, these performers and upcoming stars gave me an opportunity to do what I love… mingle with some of the best upcoming talent in the industry. (@richpsin @youngc_no @TherealPlayBoySwag @cameronjaymusik @fukucam @_iambamboo @oga_zen @bigshochillz @Flyguytower142 @stasonbobo @bailentheband @Sakstillraps @paristaurean @Bbh_dannyp @bbh_easley @reynavonchase @onroxy) To hear their latest music connect with them on IG, twitter, and sound cloud.

We talked about the history of their art, working hard, believing in their art and being humble at all times. The one thing that resonated that night was having such a great opportunity at BXC music festival, for many of them hadn’t had such opportunity in years…
A few performers sat down with me during a Q&A and gave me some insight in their goals for the future and how they have been blessed thus far with their talent.

For the rest of the night, I was able to see their talent showcase live on stage, pump up the volume for their fans, and impress us with their style. Stay tuned to these up and coming artists touring, dropping mix-tapes, and even mingling with creations of fashion clothing line and footwear.

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(Photos by Clayton Roulhac-Carr)

We here at LovelyMissJones, and ClassIs shoe magazine supports the grind and hustle… Congratulations to the winners of that night Paristaurean(eiffellife), Bailentheband, Bbh_dannyp/ bbh_easley.

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(Paris Taurean & Naj Mahal of Eiffellife)

And couldn’t have welcomed the fall season any better…!

Written by Marcelle Ceide
Graduate Student & Creator of ClassIs Shoe Magazine
Instagram: @itsbiz4fashion
Email: mceide32@gmail.com

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Music: ANS Summer Showcase

This past Thursday night, August 28th, I was invited to attend a summer showcase put together by Anthony Scott DePerto of ANS Studios. I was told that Anthony does it all, and I witnessed that Thursday. He not only put the whole show together, he was all over. He was the photographer and made sure he captured the entire event. Back and forth trying to get every angle. I saw him several times pacing around Mexicali to ensure that everything was in place.

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Anthony & Miss Jones

Anthony is the owner of ANS Studios, where he does audio, video, and photography work. ANS is a studio that many artists have utilized, since 2005, for the furtherance of their career.

The showcase was held at Mexicali Live, on Queen Ann Rd. in Teaneck, NJ. Which had a nice chill vibe, nice seating space, dimmed lighting, and voluminous paintings on the walls. There was a main floor as well as an upper level and a DJ booth in the back close to the bar. The food and drinks were also great.

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This event was hosted by actor/comedian, Bill the Billionaire who kept the crowd laughing and engaged.

The purpose of the showcase was to give up and coming hip hop artists in New Jersey an opportunity to perform. This gave them a platform to display their talents as well as build a larger audience. All the performers received a chance to show what they had and try to get the crowd rocking.

The performers for the night were: Brotherhood, Rob Deech, Jusdollaz, Vers’tyle, IQ the Prodigy, OTO, Sean Preme, C-More Bucks, Cash Poe, Ramo, Guy, and T-Rell.

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To find out more about ANS Studios and see what else they have up next, check out the website ansstudios.com and follow on Instagram @ansstudios.