Entertainment
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UnWine is a hidden jewel nestled in the heart of Houston’s thriving Third Ward community on the Almeda corridor. The upscale wine bar has become a mainstay for locals since it was opened in 2014 by clothier Lawrence McQueen. McQueen began hosting small events monthly at his store, McQueen’s Custom Tailoring and Clothing, where people could listen to music and sip while they shopped. The events became so popular that McQueen decided to expand with a second business. He opened “UnWine,” a swanky bar where wine lovers could listen to jazz, relax and educate themselves on the large collection of wines featuring vineyards from all over the world, including Africa. Guests can also choose from the Tapas menu of small plate food items as they sit out on the rooftop and enjoy the views of downtown Houston. A native of Detroit, Michigan, McQueen considers himself a modern-day Renaissance Man, which is expressed in the art and décor beautifully designed throughout his venue. We had a chance to speak with the “hippest cat” in H-Town, who’s managed to stay on top as an entrepreneur for over 20 years. Vibe: What do you feel is the best feature of your restaurants…the food or the atmosphere, or is it something else? McQueen: I have to give most of the credit to my managing partner, Shearone Lewis, because she makes sure the energy is always spectacular and everything is of the highest quality. We offer specialty plates that can’t be found anywhere in the city like our Spinach and Collard Green Dip. We also educate our customers on the best food and wine pairings, like our smoked chicken and cranberry scallions with cranberry drizzle that’s paired with our Rosé wines from California. Another great feature we have is our large rooftop bar, where you can enjoy casual conversations, have a cigar and listen to live music. Vibe: How have you adjusted during COVID? McQueen: We were shut down for a period, but for the most part, we scaled back our hours and cut back on everything. We are just now increasing hours, but the hardest part for us — and a lot of hospitality businesses that I have spoken with agree — is that the workforce became extremely fragmented. It’s hard to find people who want to work in the service industry. We need chefs and bar backs, but a good majority are not willing to work because the government is paying them unemployment. So at the moment, trying to move to full capacity has been the biggest adjustment. Vibe: What do you do to give back to the community? McQueen: Prior to COVID, we would offer the venue to charities, fundraisers and political organizations to host their events free of charge. We also make it a point to seek out Black-owned wineries who actually make their own wine. And we are very big on inviting local artists and musicians to come out and host shows and perform, or display their art inside the bar. Vibe: How do you feel about the renewed interest or national push of supporting Black businesses? Do you think it will be short-lived? McQueen: I certainly hope not! A lot of individuals are sympathetic to small businesses that may or may not have survived COVID, but it’s a shame that COVID had to happen for more people to support us. We definitely have seen an influx of people coming out, now more than ever. They say good things come out of hard times. So hopefully this will be one of those good things that will come out of this pandemic. Vibe: Any advice to entrepreneurs or small business owners fighting to stay afloat during these challenging times? McQueen: I would tell them to let this be a teachable moment to stack your money while you can, and be strategic in how you move at all times. If you are fortunate enough to get a PPP or EIDL loan, or had a good stock pile pre-COVID, I would advise you to invest wisely so you can at least keep your business afloat when things like this happen. This should be a lesson to entrepreneurs to save and invest wisely when you are up, so you won’t ever get down. More information on UnWine: Address: 4420 Almeda. Houston, TX 77004 Phone: 832-804-9560 Click here to visit the website. Click here to “Like” and follow on Facebook.
A “Renaissance Man” is defined as a person of many talents or areas of knowledge. Ash Davito definitely fits that bill. From modeling, to acting, self-publishing his own books, and writing and directing his own feature films, he’s done it all. Davito has written and directed numerous projects, including Temp to Fire (2015), and has been an actor in As I Die Slowly (2011) and God Send Me a Man (2009), alongside Robin Givens. Adding to that, he’s now launched a new record label, Global Keys Records, executive producing and publishing music for various artists. We sat down to chat with Davito to see how he “vibes.” Vibe: How do you describe yourself? Tell us, who is Ash Davito? Davito: I would describe myself as a creative visionary. If you were to ask me what I do, I would tell you, “Whatever needs to be done.” I have always believed in myself as early as I can remember. Any goal or dream I’ve ever set out to accomplish, I have. Simply, I’m a God fearing man from Sunnyside, Texas who is passionate about helping others. Vibe: What projects are you currently working on? Davito: I’m currently promoting “MY TOWN” by Mugg Man feat. Jon Glenn, in which I wrote and produced. It is doing very well on YouTube. My next project is an R&B ballad I wrote called “I CROWN YOU” by artist Lori Dansby feat. Jon Glenn. After that, the label will be releasing music in the Afro and Reggae genres. Vibe: What do you feel about the Houston entertainment scene? Davito: I feel like Houston’s entertainment scene has really blossomed in the last five years alone. Now you can find various locations for just about any kind of entertainment you want to see. Some of the greatest entertainers in the world were birthed in Houston. I don’t think that enough artists and business professionals come together, however, I understand that you just can’t work with everyone regardless of how much you may like to. Personally, I believe that needing nothing attracts everything. The less time I spend depending on others, the more time I have to focus on bettering myself as a businessman, CEO and visionary. Vibe: You say you wear many hats, why is it important to learn various aspects of the business? Davito: It’s essential to learn how every level of your field of business works. Even if I’m weak in a specific area, it’s my obligation as a “leader” to know enough about that area to be able to identify the ideal person or resource we may need on the team to strengthen it. In my opinion, that’s the way to limit any inefficiencies across the board. The more you know, the more you can share, and the less people can take advantage of you. Vibe: From a business owner’s perspective, what are the most common mistakes you’ve seen made in this industry? Davito: The most common mistakes I’ve seen are business owners not actually owning their intellectual property. That is a liability. For instance, I’ve heard so many artists say how people have stolen the ideas they’ve shared with them. First, your business has to be properly structured and you need a clear plan of action for your product, and personally, I don’t ever talk about a project that has not been copyrighted, already published commercially or has already been manifested and ready for the next level. Vibe: How important is collaboration? Davito: Collaboration is extremely important to me. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to workwith a lot of people, but it’s very important that you collaborate with the right people — people who are assets and not liabilities. I also love to collaborate with other businesses, using my projects and platforms to promote them as we work to build strong partnerships. Vibe: When looking to collaborate with someone, what do you look for? Davito: I look at their character and spirit first. Talent means nothing if we don’t “vibe” together, period. If the person is humble, hungry, willing to learn, willing to grow and most importantly, willing to invest in themselves, and I’m doing the same, then it’s a “win-win” situation for us all. Vibe: How important is mentorship? Davito: Although success is subjective, mentorship is literally what being successful is all about. I’m only here doing what I do today because a mentor sat me down my senior year in high school and simply asked me, “What do you want to do with your life?” That lead to everything that I am doing today. One simple conversation changed my life so I’m always asking the youth I encounter while speaking at Career Days at various schools or just in random conversations “what do they want to do with their futures” and I try to make sure they understand how to have a plan of action to work toward their goals. Vibe: What have you learned during this pandemic? Davito: During this pandemic, I learned that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I started Global Keys Records Corporation on July 13, 2020, in the midst of the pandemic at a very challenging time in my life. How dare I start a record company and teach myself the music business and actually follow through with everything I set out to do? I learned how to believe in myself and others even when nobody else did. Most importantly I learned how to exercise my faith and potential. I wrote my first professional song at that time, and a few months later, it was on the market and has now grown over 60,000 views for the music video on YouTube and still going. I feel that it’s nothing I can’t do if I’m willing to unlock my potential within. Vibe: What advice do you have to give anyone who is out here grinding with a dollar and a dream? Davito: Don’t stop. Nothing comes easy. And — you have to think anyway so you may
Former President Donald Trump has awarded Waka Flocka Flame with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his works in the community. The award recognized the Atlanta native for his humanitarianism and philanthropy as a volunteer for the Chicago non-profit “Daughter of Destiny.” Flocka’s work with the program includes helping women by providing employment, food, housing, community, and inner healing. His mentor and pastor, Apostle Dr. Bridget Outlaw, presented him with his official certificate and medal before Flocka said a few words. “I just wanna thank President Trump for recognizing me,” he says in the short clip. The Trump Administration approved the Lifetime Achievement Award back in January, but Flocka did not officially receive it until Friday.
KTSU 90.9FM is proudly leading 14 other HBCU licensed public radio stations in a joint fight to knock out coronavirus in our communities. The legendary radio station, which is located on the campus of Texas Southern University, is one of the HBCU recipients of a $150,000 grant funded by The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to help lead awareness campaigns for underserved communities hit hardest by the pandemic. The “Save A Life” campaign will be under the leadership of KTSU General Manager Ernest Walker. “The African-American community has been struck significantly since the inception of COVID-19, particularly in the areas of access to COVID-19 vaccinations and in the effects the disease has had on families’ mental health,” Walker said. “KTSU is pleased to lead alongside other HBCU public radio stations to provide educational and life-saving information in order to help fight and beat the pandemic on our campuses and in other vulnerable populations.” These HBCU stations will produce, broadcast and distribute informative content on-air, online, and on social media. The informative programs will include local health officials and community leaders from each city and state to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal is to motivate and engage minority communities to continue to mask up, social distance, get tested, receive the vaccine, and support mental health. Station participation will include: ● Alabama: WJAB, Normal; WVAS. Montgomery ● Georgia: WCLK, Atlanta ● Mississippi: WJSU, Jackson; WURC, Holly Springs; WPRL, Lorman ● Missouri: KJLU, Jefferson City ● North Carolina: WNCU, Durham; WRVS, Elizabeth City; WSNC, Winston-Salem ● Ohio: WCSU, Wilberforce ● Texas: KTSU, Houston; KPVU, Prairie View ● South Carolina: WSSB, Orangeburg ● Virginia: WNSB, Norfolk KTSU is one of the HBCU recipients of a $150,000 grant funded by The Corporation for Public For more information about KTSU 90.9Fm, visit www.ktsuradio.com. For more information about The Vibe, visit www.vibehouston.com.
Friends, family an fans are mourning the loss of Houston artist “JaeRene,” who was tragically killed in a wrong way crash involving an alleged drunk driver, according to the Harris County Pct. 5 Constables Office. “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the tragic passing of our vibrant Jaelyn “JaeRene” Chapman. We will always remember Jae’s smile, love for her music, talents, community involvement, bubbly personality, and huge heart. During this time, we ask that you keep her family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers,” her family released in a statement. The 19-year-old singer was traveling with others on the Westpark Tollway near Dunvale just after 2 a.m. Wednesday when the accident occurred. CJaeRene did not survive, and three others in the vehicle remain in critical condition. The wrong-way driver was injured, but is expected to survive. He will be charged with intoxication manslaughter, authorities said. Born and raised in the city that birthed a unique sound, diverse culture, and many national talents, JaeRene was the epitome of Houston. The self-proclaimed Houston R&B Princess made her mark on the music scene in a major way. She was no stranger to the stage as she won a plethora of local and national beauty pageants since the age of 4. Her personality, talent, and tenacity led her to perform at festivals, sporting events, concerts and social events. Her diverse sound was featured on one of Houston’s most requested songs, “H-Town For Real (Remix),” which featured artists including Kiotti, Paul Wall, Lil Flip, Trilly Polk, ZRo, and others. In addition to singing, JaeRene also wrote her own music, which was often inspired by life situations. She was formerly a host of Kidz Jams on 95.3 Jamz where she encouraged teens to live out their dreams. She loved the community, and often hosted “Baddie Bootcamps” where she promoted positive self-esteem, body images, and confidence to young girls of the ages of 5-18. RIP Princess. You will be truly missed. The family has a GoFund me page to help assist with her final arrangements. Our deepest condolences to the family.
DMX, the rapper who is known as much for his raw and gritty lyrics as much as his controversial life, has died. He was 50 years old. The family released a statement that read, in part: “We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.” The statement went on to say,”Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him.” DMX was rushed to the hospital last week after suffering a heart attack at his home in New York, his longtime attorney, Murray Richman, said. Artists, athletes and other celebrities paid tribute to him on social media Friday. DMX (Dark Man X) began rapping in the early 1990s and released his debut album, “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot,” in 1998. When DMX burst onto the scene, for many, he filled the void in hip hop left after the deaths of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G. He was known for his growling, snarling voice mixed with hardcore lyrics, which is a relection of his troubled upbringing. His single, “Ruff Ryders Anthem,” helped to put him on the map and “What’s My Name,” was another smash success. In fact, nearly every DMX track was a hit. In 2019, DMX canceled a planned concert tour to seek treatment for addiction, saying at the time that he was “putting family and sobriety first.” That same year he talked to GQ about his struggles. “I just need to have a purpose,” he said. “And I don’t even know that purpose, because God has given me that purpose since before I was in the womb, so I’m going to fulfill that purpose … whether I want to or not, whether I know it or not, because the story has already been written. If you appreciate the good, then you have to accept the bad.” We were all waiting for a comeback after DMX appeared in a Verzuz battle with fellow artist Snoop Dogg last year. Now, sadly, it’s time to say goodbye. RIP King. May you rest in eternal peace.
Director Eric Hunter and team are proud to bring a gripping, edge of your seat political thriller “O’Shea: Words or Bullets,” which was created and produced in Houston, Texas. The production brings together the best and brightest Houston talent, and is a proud representation of what the Bayou City has to offer. With H-Town growing as a major entertainment hub, we wanted to help showcase the work of so many who’ve been breaking ground in this city. The cast spoke to Vibe Houston online, and to the Mad Hatta live about the series and why it is relevant for today’s times. Vibe: What inspired the series, O’Shea Words or Bullets? Eric Hunter: I am a survivor of one of the worst mass shootings in American history. On July 20, 2012, James Holmes entered a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado and changed my life, along with my entire community’s lives, forever. When Holmes opened fire during a midnight screening of “The Dark Knight Rises,” I was fortunate to help others who were injured and in need. Labeled a hero, I stayed humble and respectful, believing that I did what I would have wanted others to do for me. From that life changing event, I learned three things; I did not want to die, I loved helping people and I wanted to make a change in this world. That event pushed me to put all my thoughts, hopes and goals into one character “O’SHEA.” O’Shea is all about one man facing his demons and overcoming the impossible to create or change in his community. Vibe: What impact do you believe this show can have on racial relations? Antrone Harris: The communities are so divided today. We as people have to realize that we are all one tied into one. In order for us all to come together, we have to realize that we are all the same. I believe that this TV show will be very impactful on all lives because it demonstrates how every race is important and not superior or inferior to another. Vibe: Tell us the importance of Black filmmakers. Do we have enough? Are they getting the resources they need? Tyrone Dixon: The importance of Black filmmakers runs deep. We can not allow others to tell our stories. We have to seek ownership of our history and our culture, both of which are vital to world. We do not have enough filmmakers, especially those who have a seat at the executive tables where decisions to make films are made. We need more filmmakers behind the camera, in front of the camera. We need more investment and investor opportunities. Not enough of our people invest in the telling of our stories. That’s my goal, to help bridge those gaps. That’s why I am a huge believer in O’Shea and its potential to play a major role in those bridging efforts. Vibe: Tell us, why did you choose to shoot the series in Houston, Texas? Stephon “007” Davis: The reason that we chose to film this entire series in the city of Houston is because H-Town has a whole lot of talent that has come out of this city. Greats like Beyonce , Chandra Wilson , Debbie Allen , Phylicia Rashad , Loretta Devine , and many others. Also to provide jobs here for the entertainment industry. No longer will a person have to go to Atlanta , Los Angeles, New Orleans, New Mexico, North and South Carolina, Chicago , Dallas , or Austin. It also helps bring major tax dollars to the city and, honestly, Houston has the best filming locations. A lot of Hollywood studio executives agree that Houston is a excellent place for filming. Vibe: What drew you to the project? Dequina Moore: I was drawn to this magnificent project, first, due to the concept! I felt immediately empowered as a Black artist and a Black woman to be a part of a creation that touches on such a wide range of societal issues, especially the racial disparities and systemic injustices that we are overwhelmed with in America each day. I also loved the vast diversity that makes up this colorful cast, and am easily drawn to the unapologetic voice it gives so many marginalized groups. “We will not be broken” is one of the main chants that’s masterfully created and whaled out by our lead character, O’Shea, & that is EXACTLY how I felt when I was first being considered for this project! Lastly, what also attracted me to “O’Shea: Words or Bullets” was the incredible behind-the-scenes team that is championing this major, heart-wrenching series. The storytelling and all its complexities, the experience, the integrity, the passion, and the future-planning that this creative crew engulfs is what made me proudly state “I’m in.” It’s an absolute dream to find a team that you can be completely free to work as an artist/producer with and not feel any unnecessary restraints or inhibitions. I feel “safe” here artistically. And THAT speaks volumes. Vibe: If art is an imitation of life, how does O’Shea reflect on what’s happening in America today? Gary Sturgis: O’Shea tackles modern-day American issues like systemic racism, marginalization, and lack of equality for people of color, all current issues that are now being addressed globally with movements like Black Lives Matter (BLM). In a violent world, O’Shea is seeking non-violent solutions, even when some of his followers wish to fight fire with fire. O’Shea couldn’t have come at a better time in the current political climate. The conversation of racial inequality has often fallen on deaf ears. A global pandemic would force the world to sit at home and watch television and social media where they would see countless acts of police brutality and racial profiling which cost the lives of many unarmed and innocent minorities, to the point the world would cry out for justice. This is the heart and soul of O’Shea the series, continuing the conversation through art since the world is finally
If you don’t know the man, you definitely know his food. And if you don’t know his food, then where the heck have you been and what are you waiting for? Houston’s legendary “The Breakfast Klub” is the delectable brainchild of Texas Southern University alumnus Marcus Davis, who is an entrepreneur, restaurateur, political commentator and motivational speaker. Davis is best known for his charismatic personality, authentic customer appreciation, and his tireless commitment to the communities he serves. Davis came up with the concept for The Breakfast Klub after recognizing a void in the market for a unique breakfast restaurant serving signature items in a soulful, relaxed environment. He chose two of his favorite dishes from opposite ends of the country – “Katfish & Grits” from the East Coast and “Wings & Waffles” from the West Coast, and the rest is history. Since opening in September of 2001, the restaurant has become a top tourist attraction, as well as the local favorite breakfast spot, lining up droves of cheerful patrons on a daily basis. So, we wanted to “Vibe Out” with Davis to speak about what continues to motivate him, in addition to what’s happening in the world today. Vibe: In addition to the world-famous “The Breakfast Klub” and “Reggae Hut,” what other businesses do you have? Davis: “Kulture” – An urban comfort kitchen that specializes in reimagined southern classics located in downtown Houston “Alley Kat Bar & Lounge” – Located in Midtown. Alley Kat is the after-work hangout spot with some of the hottest DJs and a place to go for live entertainment on the weekends. Vibe: What do you feel is the best feature of your restaurants…the food or the atmosphere, or is it something else? Davis: I believe that there is not just ONE feature that is better than the rest. At each concept, we strive to provide an excellent dining experience. That starts with the moment you arrive. We greet each customer with “Welcome to _________.” From there, we will make the customer aware of what we have to offer and how to order. We strive to make each customer as comfortable as possible. At each concept, the ambiance is set with music that fills the air and suits the atmosphere that we want the restaurant to have. The sounds you hear are curated to enhance your dining experience. The food served is prepared daily using fresh ingredients, to produce a quality product. It is a combination of our commitment to excellent service, a quality product, and a remarkable dining experience that makes our restaurants great. Vibe: How have you adjusted during COVID? Davis: When COVID-19 forced us to close in-person dining options, we launched an online ordering system with the option of curbside pickup. This allowed customers to place an order through our website and pick up without leaving their vehicles. We also purchased more PPE for our employees to protect them while interacting with customers. In addition to that, hand sanitizer was made readily available for anyone who needed it. Once we could open for in-person dining, we started with dining on the patio only. This allowed customers a safe space to dine and make our employees feel safe as well. We increased cleaning protocols for all dining spaces, changed our drinkware, flatware, and condiments to disposable items, and made sure to enforce physical distancing for those waiting to place their orders. Eventually, we opened the dining room with limited seating to physically space tables from one another. We have maintained our increased cleaning operations and still enforce physical distancing. Vibe: What do you do to give back to the community? Davis: We believe that we have a responsibility as a member of the community in which we reside to aid that community in whatever way possible. Whether it be through teaching children about the value of entrepreneurship, hosting voter registration drives, donating meals to those in need, or simply providing a place for individuals to come together, we strive to find ways to make a difference. Since the pandemic hit, we have provided food for frontline workers at hospitals, medical clinics, and grocery stores. We have teamed up with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center to host blood drives that aided in the fight of the Coronavirus and replenished their reserves after Winter Storm Uri. Recently, we had the opportunity to celebrate the TSU Men’s Basketball team for winning the SWAC Championship with breakfast at The Breakfast Klub. Vibe: Besides being a restaurateur, you are very outspoken as a community and political advocate. What can you say to motivate people to stay involved? Davis: All local and all national campaigns start and stem from things on the ground. Those campaigns also address issues on the ground and that is why it is important to be intricately involved on the grassroots level as an entrepreneur in the community. There is an intrinsic relationship between the community and the entrepreneur. One needs the other and they feed off of each other. Vibe: How do you feel about the renewed interest or national push of supporting Black businesses? Do you think it will be short-lived? Davis: It is exciting – extremely exciting – and it will only be short-lived if WE allow it to die down. There is an obligation and a responsibility for the community as a whole to keep it live, vibrant and thriving because it is very necessary for us to build Wakanda. Wakanda didn’t get built by the colonizers, it was built by Wakandians. Vibe: Any advice to entrepreneurs or small business owners fighting to stay afloat during these challenging times? Davis: Fight. Fight like hell. Fight like your life depends on it. Fight like your business depends on it. Fight like your community depends on you, because it does. Vibe: Last question, tell us about your Texas Southern University experience! Davis: Going to Texas Southern University was one of the highlights of my lifetime. It was incredibly special to be on the
“I’m just trying to do my part to make the world of music better and stay out the way. Y’all be cool,” says Mugg Man, a rising artist from the “Dead End” in southeast Houston. After graduating from Worthing High School as a star athlete, Mugg Man entered the Navy and proudly served our country. That is where he started to pursue his musical journey. After returning home, he began to focus on his solo career as an artist. His new song, “MY TOWN,” featuring R&B artist Jon Glenn, mixes raw lyrics with a smooth “country” vibe, making the track unique and easily adaptable for many genres. Glenn, who is considered a “go-to guy” for R&B features and dance choreography, teaches dance classes to children and teens at “New Vibe Dance Studio” in Houston. The music video for “MY TOWN” (Global Keys Records Corporation) is available on Tidal, Apple Music, VEVO, and Discovered.TV. Instagram: @MuggmanofCHB Click here to watch video for “My Town.”
LeToya Luckett and her “Friends and Family Hustle” co-host Toya Johnson have teamed up to become the new faces of the Mielle Organics haircare brand. Mielle is considered to be the number one growth and moisture international Black-owned natural hair care company. The company’s founder and CEO, Monique Rodriguez, shared why she chose the two ladies to be a part of the 2021 “Unmasked: I Know My Roots” series. “Unmasked: I Know My Roots is an elevated take on our journey to empower multicultural women and young girls to showcase their authentic selves unapologetically,” said Rodriguez. “This project is special because it’s a fresh take on Mielle Organics’ ideals as a company and allows me and my fellow ambassadors to show a different side of women’s empowerment.” The former “Destiny’s Child” original group member and native Houstonian shared on her Instagram how it felt to learn the truth about her hair origins. “I am so excited to be a part of this campaign because I’ve always wanted to know where I’m from. One thing about me, I am big on family, and having this opportunity to explore my roots brings me closer to my ancestors!” she said. Johnson, who rose to fame as the ex-wife of Lil Wayne, said that she has always been a fan of the brand so it was an easy choice for her when she was approached. “The ‘I Know My Roots’ campaign is a no-brainer for me because I know my roots, and I love where I come from,” Johnson said. “I’m excited as this campaign is also about embracing your natural beauty, going back to your roots, and just unmasking it all. I am embracing my beauty!”
