About two weeks ago, Jay-Z released his anticipated 13th album “4:44″ on his music streaming service, Tidal, and the Sprint mobile platform. (And yes, I was one of those people who re-downloaded TIDAL to use the free trial. Don’t judge me…I helped him go platinum.) I listened to this 30 minute hip-hop masterpiece and was immediately enthralled by the arc of his story. Of course the big media tagline seemed to be “Jay-Z cheats on gorgeously fabulous superstar wife, repents, and atones”…but I felt there was more. I knew that writing a thinkpiece out of the burning excitement of it all would be shallow commentary and a waste of your time. So I took a bit to let it marinate and thought of some real takeaways for myself.

Jay-Z Taught Me:

• Never be afraid to evolve
• Allow yourself to think outside of the box financially
• Don’t let anyone condition you to accept their bad behavior
• Never let anything come between you and the people you love

Never be afraid to evolve

[su_quote cite=”Cry Jay Z. We know the pain is real but you can’t heal what you’ve never revealed.”][/su_quote]

Jay-Z with or without the hyphen…With or without the space? Who knows, but it obviously means something to him. We’ve seen this guy bare his soul with slick lyrics over hot beats for decades at this point. He’s gone from a chauvinistic, drug-dealing hustler to a reformed, grown man working to be financially sound and loyal to his family. If you’ve paid any attention to his career you would know he’s always put various versions of himself all out there for the world to see. He’s admitted to dealing (drugs) and not knowing the power of his dollar, sucking at love, mindlessly blowing his money, being the father he wished he had and practically ruining his life for nekkid Virginia (you’ll catch that later). He’s been honest about his humble beginnings from Marcy and his journey to becoming a billionaire. This guy is never afraid to shed old skin, old habits, or old friendships and he continuously reveals his evolution in his work. He shares his growth as an artist, business man and (now) family man throughout his body of work. He takes risks on himself and makes no apologies for it. We should all be unapologetic in our growth and embrace our evolution.

Allow yourself to think outside of the box financially

[su_quote cite=”Financial freedom my only hope. F**** living rich, but dying broke.”][/su_quote]

Many of us have been singing this same song of financial freedom for quite some time now but it was pretty cool to hear an artist of his caliber candidly take on the subject. His no hold barred verses called out colleagues, industry peers, and his fans on the the reckless mentality we’ve held in relation to the dollar. How is it that we’re deciding to monetize our work? How is it that we’re deciding to invest in ourselves and build our communities? How is it that we live rich and die wealthy? “The Story of OJ”, “Caught Their Eyes” and “Legacy” really emphasize the importance of generational wealth and financial empowerment. I’m just now getting to a place in my life where I’m working towards generational wealth. I realized it’s not too late and will continue to invest in myself so that I can make a larger impact in the economy. It’s inspiring to see artists changing the relationship they have with money and helping their fans become more financially literate. It’s high time we start discussing stock options, bonds and other forms of investment.

Don’t let anyone condition you to accept their bad behavior

[su_quote cite=”You egged Solange on, knowing all along all you had to say (is) you was wrong..”][/su_quote]

In Jay’s opening (“Kill Jay Z”), I think Solange taught me this lesson. She obviously takes no crap and I love it. I joke with my friends all the time and say “Solange is the sibling you want in your family.” She’s definitely the opinionated, keep it real type who you don’t want to eff with. I know you should never put your hands on anyone but I really admire her no nonsense, I might just put these paws on you if you act up, attitude.

Mr. Z and Ms. Yoncé have been together for quite some time, and it’s been speculated that he ultimately conditioned his young tender to deal with his bologna. What he probably didn’t realize was that she’d actually snap out of it and had a tribe of ride-or-dies who wouldn’t let it go on for much longer. In the title track, “4:44″, he finally reveals coming to a sobering realization. This is all supposition of course, but ladies you know how we are. A good girlfriend/sister will never let you, or anyone else, make a fool out of you. She got to the point where she played “the fool no more” and I definitely think Solange had something to do with that. Sometimes that’s all we need. Sometimes we need that person closest to us to help us stick up for ourselves. Bad behavior is unacceptable. We have to fight for ourselves and never be blinded by whatever it is to the point where we let people mistreat us. Even if we love them. And if by any chance these bad behaved weasels slip through the cracks, find your Solange.

Never let anything come between you and the people you love

[su_quote cite=”Let me alone Becky.”][/su_quote]

This guy legit rebukes everything that attempts to come between him and his family, and I’m not mad at it. He’s openly going to the mattresses for his village. To me this is deeper than his relationship with Beyoncé – it’s about everyone around him who lifts him up. He doesn’t want to disappoint the people who have helped him become the person he is. He cares about his family honor. He of course references the strength of his wife, the loyalty of his best friend, the courage of his mother coming out, his children…he knows he has a lot to lose if he doesn’t continue to strive for greatness as a man. I think that’s huge.

I stay inside of my head a lot and sometimes forget about the feelings of the people I love. I forget how much they love me and want to see me win. I forget how much I’ve appreciated them during my darkest times but I want to make sure to become more mindful not take any of them for granted. It’s easy to do with this world we live in. We’re all so used to the thought of people being around that we don’t frequently acknowledge how integral they are to who we’ve become. In this new age of digital communication, we don’t connect as genuinely as we used to and we stay distracted with both superficial and self-serving things. It’s time to free ourselves of those diversions (whatever your Becky is) and focus in what’s important – the people you love and the work that brings you fulfillment.

Never let a “Becky” come between you and your true happiness. <3

-D.Wright

You guys might have remembered I referenced my good friend Ameerah in my article Every Little Step a few weeks back. She’s a true gem and one of the most phenomenal people I know. Not only is she a beautiful wife and mother, but she’s a fabulous business woman who is taking the world by storm. This past weekend, Ameerah invited women across Houston Metro area to join her in a private brunch at Sak Fifth’s 51Fifteen in celebration of sisterhood and her lifestyle event series…Brunch and Slay.

There was champagne and appetizers flowing from the very start of the experience. We were practically waited on hand and foot. Droves of beautiful women dressed to the nines were literally EVERYWHERE you hear me?! If someone wanted a wife, Ameerah held the key to the treasure box. I kid you not – the style was on point, the hair was on point, the ambition was on point and the positivity was overflowing. The assortment of women in attendance varied in all shades of hues and backgrounds. It was the one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.

But back to the actual event…it started with a networking cocktail hour, then we were moved into the dining area for our first course and a fashion demonstration by stylist, Ashley Kahn. We mingled a bit more, ate our second course and then moved to the bar area for desert and more mimosas. After a bit of more chatting we were ushered into the event space to hear the panels.

The women we heard were an all-star group to say the least. We had renowned  fashion illustrator Rong-Rong Devoe, fitness guru Leah Egwuatu, Emmy Award winner  Erica Halloway, fashion maven Brandy Gueary, Doctor Ashandra Batiste who stars on Bravo series Married to Medicine Houston and moderating was best selling writer Charlie Marcol. These were just the people on the panel! The room was full of influencers, medical professionals, designers, educators, creatives, techs, and other amazing represented industries.

Ameerah created a lavish experience for her guests. I can only imagine what she’s going to come up with next. If you’re into unique lifestyle events, make sure to visit her website for more information HERE. I clearly had a blast. <3

-D.Wright

Located off of historic Allen Parkway, sits one of the most beautiful spaces I’ve ever visited for brunch. I’ve been wanting to check out The Kitchen at The Dunlavy for months and finally got the opportunity over last weekend. Usually when folks go somewhere or do something they’ve been anticipating, there’s a little bit of a let down. I can not say that was the case here. It was everything I hoped it to be…From the walk up to the door, the chandeliers, the food and atmosphere. I felt like a Black Alice in Wonderland waiting for the Mad Hatter and March Hare to serve me up a cup of something good.

As I mentioned, the walk up was absolutely beautiful. There was greenery from a park that shared the space below, as well as a bayou. Also notable, was the cemetery that neighbored the building. You would think it would make the vibe a bit morbid or dreary but the crazy thing was, even that looked enchanting. All I could think was the acreage this thing sits on is absolutely breathtaking.

Parking was kind of tricky since the lot was small. I decided to opt out of their reasonably priced valet to park in a smaller connected lot, and then made my way up the rock trail.

This is going to sound corny but it was lovely and so pleasant outside that it made it even better. From the snaps I took of the surrounding buildings, you can get a feel of how grandiose the landscaping and views were. Note to photographers: If you want to take pictures of Houston in all it’s glamorous, Southern glory – this is the spot to do it. You can also see a glimpse of Downtown that makes everything even more awe-inspiring.

Now for the entrance…anyone who knows me, knows that I’m absolutely obsessed with chandeliers. I don’t have one in my apartment, so I bought a painting of one and it’s literally hanging over my sofa as we speak. So imagine my girly-girl, shrieking joy when I walked in and laid my eyes on this amazing dining room. It nearly brought me to tears. Ok, maybe no tears were involved but my jaw absolutely dropped. It was an experience just walking into the space. I died and went to chandelier heaven.

As far as the feel of the room, after getting over the delightful drama of it all, it felt surprisingly warm and very charming. I went through the door and was able to order my food and beverages right away. The staff was friendly and professional so they helped us get though the line quickly. This place gets packed, so no drama around waiting for a table or waiters felt amazing.

Mimosa (Cocktail)

I don’t have to tell you the drinks were awesome. They had bite but were well very balanced and super tasty. We got a great deal on a carafe and pretty much went to boozy-town. So with the drinks, there were no complaints there just know we were Chatty-Cathy’s by the end of it.

For my meal, I decided to go with something a little traditional. Whenever I go to places I’ve never experienced, I select a simple meal. My thoughts are, “If they screw this up, I’m never coming back.” For the record, they didn’t screw it up and I’ll definitely be going back. The bacon was thick and salty. The eggs were light and perfectly drizzled in white American cheddar. The potatoes were seasoned and the toast was toasted for just the right amount of crisp. Everything was so good, even the butter made me go mmmmm.

The Egg Plate

There was so much more to see outside of the dining space. I can’t wait to go back and sit in their outdoor area. They have a new, loyal patron in me. I guarantee if you enjoy good eats and beautiful aesthetics, The Kitchen is the spot to visit. It’s such a jewel and I hope you enjoy it when you visit. <3

-D.Wright

Photo courtesy of Rolling Stone.

I love Haim. Why do I love them? They’re a quirky, rhythmic, poppy yet soulful rock band – that’s why. The Haim sisters are winning fans over left and right, so I naturally have to introduce you to them.

One of my best friends put me on to their music some summers ago and I never let up. I’ve gone years playing their first album, Days Are Gone just up until last week and that’s only because their new LP (Something to Tell You) was released. It’s fun, you have to check it out.

These girls are genuine and have a sweet natural chemistry. I guess they should since they’re sisters and all. Danielle, Este and Alana are your quintessential girls-next-door who are super goofy and cute in this perfect mix of anti-hipster meets rock goddess. The stories they tell are relatable and there’s something groovy about their music. Yes, groovy. I just feel like I want to dance when I listen to them and I seriously mean it. You can’t help it! I literally cook in the kitchen and dance to their albums with no tragic grease fires or missing limbs to report. You might not be so lucky but try a good Haim inspired kitchen jam session at least once.

Last thought, I appreciate how their interesting blend of influences organically resonate through their sound. They’re the perfect recipe of your favorite meal and worth at least one good listen. The jury is still out on my favorite song but just know, I’ll be keeping this little musical jewel on repeat. <3

-D. Wright

Music lovers, have I got something for you! A friend of mine introduced me to my new favorite thing, and it’s a music discovery app appropriately named Discovr.

There are so many music streaming and sharing services out there to a point where it can be a little overwhelming to try and find new artists to check out these days. My music go-to’s have always been blogs or friends with amazing taste in music…but what if you want something even simpler than that? Discovr might be the answer for you.

With the Discovr app, you can:

• Search thousands of artists
• Play newly discovered music from the app
• Open an artist’s music in Spotify or iTunes
• Share your new discovery with other music lovers

You start by downloading the free app on your iOS or Android device, search a familiar artist you like, the tap on their name and discover other similar artists through a dgized music tree. It’s pretty cool and really simple to follow.

Another great feature being able to pull up your  music in either Apple Music or Spotify! It’s extremely intuitive and easy to use and did I mention…free?! You can’t get any better than that.

I’ve been using it for a few days now and have found talents like Jessie Ware, DVSN, Parachute and a few others to dive into. If you’re adventurous or just searching for someone new to check out, Discovr offers you a sure fire way to learn about artists you might have never heard of from all over the world! Of course the music nerd in me is pretty stoked. Feel free to share your new discoveries with me — happy listening. <3

-D.Wright