After being bombarded with one heart-breaking news story after another, I needed an outlet that would allow me to exhale, recharge and to realize the intense power that comes along with this supernatural feeling we call, “LOVE.”
#LoveJonesATL was just that. ~Andre J. Thomas
When I was invited to the widely anticipated event by my friend and The Weekend Show producer, Phil Brazile, I was really expecting to see another typical concert. To my surprise, the concert was far from typical and definitely exceeded my expectations. I have to preface that none of the events I’ve covered this summer for my #CaptureTheMoments Tour has been more timely and relevant than the recent #LoveJonesATL event.
I walked in on Atlanta based poet, Fhena giving her emotional message, charging us to uplift our black men and fathers. Inspiring the black men in the audience to hold their fists in the air with solidarity, she encouraged us to respect our fathers due to the fact that their DNA helped to shape the fabric of our existence.
If the suffix ~logy is defined as “the study of”– then it is safe to say, Coriology must refer to the study of the life and career of Atlanta based soul singer, Cori. When violence stole our headlines, Coriology tapped into the chemistry of our souls, meshing the music with our heartbeat for freedom. Coriology elevated the tone of the night with a simple cover of Bill Wither’s “Lean On Me!”
Saxophonist Chris King didn’t have much time on the stage, but his impact was very much felt. As his passion for music filled the room, the spirit of love continued to resonate in the atmosphere.
When describing his performance, Atlanta based fashion blogger, Regina Berry said:
“This (performance) nearly moved me to tears.”
Young artist, Vince Ashton was definitely unique compared to the lineup. A very proud ATLien at heart, Vince gave us a more relaxed appeal and a feeling of nostalgia with his covers of ATL hits like “Waterfalls” by TLC, “My Love” by Soul 4 Real, and “Before You Walk Out My Life” by Monica.
Ashton used his music to remind us of the hope that exist when we embrace the fun side of life. A free spirit in every sense of the word, he definitely had the audience ready to groove the night away.
Having the artistic ambience that Apache Cafe is known for available as her stimulus for creativity, Tuwanna Marie closed the night with inspirational music designed to embody the spirit of love and unity in the community. Unapologetically, her sincerity and dynamic vocal prowess made her performance ICONIC. Tuwanna clinched the high notes that catalyzed emotions in every vein and crevice of our natural beings.
#CapturedTheMoment with Phil Brazile
After the show, I had the opportunity to capture the moment with my buddy, Phil. Phil and Tuwanna were the hosts and producers of the sold-out event. If this event was a reflection of their skill, then this dynamic duo is definitely one to lookout for in 2017.
Knowing that during pain, our hope lies in unification instead of division. We must be willing to be a friend to our brothers and sisters and not their enemies.
Andre J. Thomas is a 5x Award Winning producer for the hit show, College Talk. Andre is also a featured writer for Black Moguls Magazine, GumpTown Magazine, The Birmingham Times and SwurvRadio. You can listen to @AndreTheBlogger on The Joe Lockett Show 101.1 FM & 1260 AM WYDE (Alabama) on Saturdays from 4pm – 7pm CST. You can read more stories by Birmingham’s Favorite Entertainment Blogger at andrejthomas.com
#LoveJonesATL showcases the POWER of LOVE After being bombarded with one heart-breaking news story after another, I needed an outlet that would allow me to exhale, recharge and to realize the intense power that comes along with this supernatural feeling we call, “LOVE.” …
