The Live Version of the Song is ALWAYS Superior to the Original (Pt. 2)- The Covers Edition

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Back with Pt.2, the Covers edition.  There are some song covers that arguably surpass the original version.  Not to say that the song wasn't made for the original artist, but to note that the cover artists' rendition of it is incredible.  Everyone can't do it, but oh man when they do?  Special.  

Jodeci- Lately

I'm so sorry to the Genius, Stevie Wonder, but what Jodeci did in this version cannot be undone.  Jokes aside from the classic Varnell Hill Martin episode, the cadence... rifts... ad-libs...and pacing.  It's THEE one by miles.  On another note, I heard the studio cover of this where they had a video for the FIRST time in 2026.  Repulsed.  This is the only I will acknowledge.

{Personal Post} Photography and The Black Arts Movement 1955- 1985' Exhibit #BlackHistoryMonth

Washington D.C's National Gallery of Art housed the 'Photography and The Black Arts Movement 1955- 1985' exhibition; celebrating the cultural history, identity, and beauty of Black Art.  My visit was crowded, but comfortable, amongst our people of all ages from toddlers to elders.  There was an undeniable thickness in the air of pride.  I was able to snap some realllly cool shots, which came satisfyingly easy because it was culture oozing at every turn.  We showed up and showed out.  
A celebration of US.

Come on in...

The Live Version of the Song is ALWAYS Superior to the Original (Pt. 1)

Tony Krash/Badu World

Can you believe this draft has been sitting since 2022?  I was vibing the other week and had a light bulb reminder.  I never published it!  What better time than now?  Half of the U.S. is snowed in today.   

Live versions are unique.  Typically filled with vivaciousness and exclusivity to that specific performance in all aspects.   It takes a special kind of everything to put a live song in the category of being considered better than the original/studio version.  That special thing where you prefer to hear the live version instead.  The common denominator is simply this.  It contains soul that the original just does not acquire.  

For instance... 

Marvin Gaye - Distant Lover

Could be the screams.. could be the horns... could be the yearning.  It's. just. there.

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: Manifest- Sneaker Drive, Hosted by Abdul

 

Whether you're holding court in the barber’s chair, pitching your next client over lunch, putting together new looks, or wining and dining through your best date night, ladies night or solo night, the best moments are the realer ones you spend with the realest ones.
-Manifest

A great way to start the new year?  Philanthropy.  

DC based sneaker collector/enthusiast and podcaster, Abdul Fouzi, continued his birthday celebration with a sneaker drive at Manifest.  You may remember him from a previous New Balance post as one of the panelists.  Attendees were asked to donate new or gently used sneakers for adults and kids sizes that would go towards a charitable organization.  For those who did not have sneakers, Manifest offered 40% off your footwear purchase for the donation.  I have a vast amount of sneakers and was elated to contribute to a good cause.  Community, Open Cafe experience (Friday Fish Fry), and Live DJ Set by Jerome Baker III.  Manifest, a hub for socializing, self care, and style, was quintessential in executing the vibe.   Take a peek inside...

Our Picks: Top Albums of 2025

2025 was .... something.  Nevertheless, you can always count on music.  Keeping up with the annual tradition of compiling our personal lists for our top albums/projects of the year.   Check out our favorites from 2025 after the jump!

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: 'Room Service' Holiday Edition Pop-Up

Can I get an encore?  The 'Room Service' pop-up is back with a twist.  The rooms previously designed in the former Motel 6 were transformed yet again in different ways to celebrate the holiday season.   

This installment was just as fire *whispers... I may have enjoyed this one a little more.

Take a look...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: Umbrella Art Fair 2025

Umbrella is back again with another neoteric art fair, welcoming and celebrating all who love the culture.  The fair showcased over 50 artists from the DC/Maryland/Virginia area, serving a space for their works and inspirations to come to life.  I always enjoy these.  You may recognize a few pieces from previous posts.  Walk with me...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: Motel 6 Revamped during Design Week for 'Room Service' Pop-Up

Design week in DC.  A closed down former Motel 6 was transformed into a pop-up design showcase.  Each room was reimagined to a distinct style from several artists and creatives around.   Immersive and unique, shall we?  'Room Service'...

Supreme x Wu-Tang Clan Collection Set to Drop Tomorrow

On behalf of my crew, SUUUUUUUU!

Supreme has released the photo book for their Fall 2025 Wu-Tang Clan collaboration.  Each collection piece contains detail that embodies the world-renowned group's style and culture.  Gore-tex jackets/pants and jerseys aren't the only items featured.  Several different colorways are offered through t-shirts, hoodies, and beanie hats along with a variety of accessories that range from coffee mugs to skateboards.   30 years later and they're STILL making waves.   

In the front, in the back, killa bees on attack...

Time Warp... 1997: Appletree | Erykah Badu

Circa 1997.

Funny how the most random memories can carry with you for decades through song.  One of my countless times in Raleigh growing up.  Erykah was the new hot artist.  Unc had the Baduizm album blaring throughout; Appletree on at this point.  "I have a hoe... I take it everywhere I go".  Unc started laughing and said 'That girl wild" as he walked past to go light a cigarette.  I think of that every time i hear this song.  

Happy Birthday Unc.  I miss you.

Today... we jam.

 

Related Post:  Time Warp...1992 : Follow Me | Aly-Us #BlackHistoryMonth

Related Post:  {Personal Post} PHOTOS: Water Lantern Festival 2023

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: Umbrella Photo Fair 2025

Andddd we're back.  Umbrella has returned with a photo fair showcasing over 20+ of DMV photographers.  A rainy Saturday connecting art lovers and collectors.  Follow me...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: "Women Artists of the DMV" Art Exhibition Opening Reception

Over 300 women artists, both established and emerging talents, were represented in nine separate art spaces.  Celebrating at the Joan Hisaoka Arts Gallery, take a look inside the "Women Artists of the DMV" opening reception...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS/VIDEO: Clipse "Let God Sort Em Out" Tour | Fairfax, VA

A beautiful summer day.  Not too hot and no humidity.  The hours went by fast leading up to the show.  I've seen Pusha twice live; once at 'The Life is So Exciting' tour with Fabolous and again at the Pepsi Dig In day a couple years back.  This would be my first time seeing Clipse live.  

I. couldn't. wait.

All things considered. 

Let's be specific...

From the actual concert to the parking lot, a TIME was had.  My voice was gone from rapping along the entire show.  This particular stop on the tour had a special treat as they performed Virginia... in well.. you see where the show was ;). Countless Clipse songs were blasting from cars during the let out (including ours).  We actually ended up staying until it was empty.  Just vibing man.  There is nothing like Hip-Hop.

You know we back right?  Clear the streets out...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: 'Culture Meets Luxury' Art Exhibit

And we're back again.  Jerome Hood held his 3rd annual art showcase, "Culture Meets Luxury"... presented by the Hood Collection.  It was housed at the same location as the previous showcase, 'Buy Art Not Drugs', which inexplicably is perfect for the celebration of the art, music, and vibes they bring.  I really enjoyed these pieces and recognized some of the artists.  They spoke volumes to say the least.

Step inside...

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: "One Last Job: Art Enables Assembles" Opening Reception

Art Enables is a Washington D.C. based studio gallery specifically committed to amplifying the creative careers for artists with disabilities.  In "One Last Job: Art Enables Assembles", the group exhibition themes a motley crew of misfits–each a highly skilled expert called out of near-retirement–teaming up to complete a high stakes operation.  I'm in.  Let's take a look inside...

 

{Personal Post} PHOTOS: "Dreams of You - The Genius of Marvin Gaye" Opening Art Reception | Baltimore, MD

A little over a week after Marvin's birthday, The Black Genius Art Show held the opening reception for their latest exhibit "Dreams of You: The Genius of Marvin Gaye".  The event featured pieces from over 20 creatives embracing the legacy impact and passion of the late great legend.  Artist talk, food, wine, and a live band.  Come get to this.

Take a peek inside...

Coco Gauff Serves Ahead in New Balance x Miu Miu Campaign

The New Balance x Miu Miu collection preview stars U.S. Open Singles champion and Youngest American Women's Singles Champion tennis player— Coco Gauff.  The collaboration centers sleek and vivid sport pieces, accessories, and footwear in primary colorways.

Supreme x Spike Lee's 40 Acres and a Mule Collection is Dropping Very Soon

If you can make a living doing what you love?  You won.

Where homage meets fashion.  Supreme has teamed up with the legendary Spike Lee for a one of a kind collection celebrating the filmmaker and his production company, 40 Acres and a Mule.  Parallel to that of Spike's films and his personal style, the collection pieces are bold, memorable, and make a statement.  Preview the collab and short video of Spike reflecting on his film-work after the jump!