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!

In Memoriam... 2025

 Gone, but not forgotten.

In memoriam...

Derrick Ward

Sam Moore

Brenton Wood

DJ Juice

{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...