Movie Soundtrack Spotlight: Why Do Fools Fall In Love?

 

This was the first time we saw Mel B. breakout as a solo artist and away from her Spice Girl persona.  The year was 1998.  Soundtracks were still a very important piece of the film, which now seems to be a lost art.  Why Do Fools Fall In Love had a star studded cast of Halle Berry, Larenz Tate, Vivica Fox, and Lela Rochon.  The original music soundtrack was heavily influenced by Missy Elliott and Timbaland.   Now during this time, both artists had an established reputation for innovative and futuristic music videos as well as production.  That translated to the albums' lead music videos and overall sound, something completely different from the norm.  Way ahead of its time.

Arguably my favorite Destiny's Child song.  Top 3 for sure.

Chicago Has Opened Its First Library Food Pantry

Michael Liptrot/Block Club Chicago

Legler Regional Library, located in the West Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL, has officially opened its first library food pantry.  In partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, the pantry stock offers the community a rotating consistent selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, protein, pre packaged meals and other food items to support a healthy diet.  The pantry shelves also offer essential hygiene toiletries such as toothpaste and shampoo.     

Michael Liptrot/Block Club Chicago

Mayor Brandon Johnson YouTube channel

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...