UNCLE HERBY & MIRANDA RAE
8/20/25 (WED) 6PM-10.30PM
ADMISSION IS FREE
BODEGA: HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
Bodega are just one of many indie boutiques feeling the cruel double sting of an uncertain economy and a rapidly changing sneaker situation in 2025. Their innovative Boston store opened its Snapple doors way back in 2006 to huge acclaim. In 2018, they secured a second location in Los Angeles. However, the downtown LA store remains their only brick-and-mortar outlet after Boston closed down earlier this year.
Behind the scenes, Bodega have been plagued by major retail challenges from order fulfilment to rising rents and the loss of the Yeezy business. Nike's downgrade hasn't helped balance the books either. A few weeks ago, the 20-year-old business nearly capsized and the entire office staff was let go. It was a sad day for the legendary store and we feel gutted for our friends and family who worked there. Twenty years of grind and progress were nearly lost on the rocks.
Despite the endless challenges, owner Jay Gordon is determined to make things right. As he reveals in this raw and unflinching interview, he still feels optimistic and is ready to get ‘scrappy again’ to build the brand back up once again.
Hi Jay, thanks for taking some time, it’s obviously been a tough time for Bodega and even tougher to now talk about it publicly. When would you say things started to get tough? Is this an industry-wide issue?
2021 was our best year ever, but in 2022 we started having fulfilment issues, both internally and then with a third party company. The external issues of a general market slowdown and losing the Yeezy business didn't help, but we had been through those things before. The internal issues came on the back of us increasing payroll and rent costs considerably, and we didn't pivot quickly enough. We started to borrow money for the first time since opening the company and dug ourselves into a pretty big hole. I take full responsibility. I should have made more drastic moves much faster, but I took too long to act.
We know you have to be careful what you say, but where are you at now? The LA store will stay open but you’ve had to let most of the team go. How close were you to pulling the pin?
I was planning to shut down all operations last Friday, until a conversation with a friend at Nike. They said they would still find a way to support us and help us get back on our feet. It was such a kind gesture, and one I'm not sure I would have made in their place. There's a lot of talk about partnership in this business, but it's rare and amazing when it actually happens. I started reaching out to other brands, explaining the dire position we were in, and more than a few were down to help and to try to come up with creative solutions to work down our debt. I still unfortunately had to go forward with letting our entire corporate team go, but I'm going to keep the LA door and online store open with the help of a very small and dedicated team of our LA staff. We are going to get scrappy again. We are all going to have to wear multiple hats and claw our way back, but I have faith in our people and our goal.
Really tough to let your creative and business team go as well… Was that the emotionally hardest part of the last few months?
It was terrible. We have been in the trenches together since 2006 and have been there for each other's highs and lows. My only solace is other companies will snatch them up quickly.
How have the brands responded? It’s a big business after all, but when you’ve been around for 20 years, hopefully there’s some goodwill.
I'm still in the process of reaching out to all of our brands, but so far they have been great. Neutra, an amazing sneaker brand out of France, offered to send us a pallet of shoes to help with the cause, and I have dozens of calls lined up with other brands that want to help in some way. It's been amazing.
The Boston store was such an iconic sneaker location. What happened there? Typical greedy landlord?
I loved that store. It was the 21st location I had looked at originally, and it felt right from the first time we walked in. So much of our shared Bodega history happened there, but it was time to go. Rents had gone up massively, but really it was just too small for all of the brands we had picked up. I have another fantastic location picked out in Boston, if we can get back on our feet.
We know you had some recent issues with sending shoes out, are they close to being solved?
We have about 1600 orders that the fulfilment company wouldn't ship without payment (that we didn't have), but I made some pretty desperate moves to get them that money today. I deeply apologise to every one of our customers that have been waiting far too long for their orders. We are taking fulfilment back in-house and will hopefully never be in that situation again.
Well that is good news, you were copping heat. They totally deserve what they paid for but hopefully they might be a bit more understanding after reading this.
We deserve it. It was unacceptable.
Do you still believe in the fundamentals of the sneaker game? How do you see the future for Bodega?
I am optimistic. I don't have particularly high hopes for the rest of 2025, but I think we will see things get better and better in 2026. We've had a pretty strong washout, and when it comes back, I think it will be with a vengeance. As for Bodega, I think we can come back strong. It's going to take some time and a bit of luck (and forgiveness), but the market is more interesting with small independent stores in it. We need to all support our local sneaker store or record store or bookstore. Our neighbourhoods and cities will be a better place with them.
Look back through Bodega's collaborative history right here.
CONCEPTS x New Balance
The CNCPTS x New Balance 1000 ‘Míle’ raffle will launch on Wednesday, March 12 at 12pm EST. Winners can collect their sneakers at CNCPTS locations in Boston, New York, and Miami on Friday, March 14 at 11am EST. Additionally, pairs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on cncpts.com starting at 11am EST on March 14. Good luck!
Concepts have been upping the game when it comes to their New Balance colabs this year, with their recent NB740 effort evoking the feeling of living the high life thanks to the champagne-influenced ‘Saignee’ and ‘Brut’. Their next project is equally luxe, although this time the pair wears its influence on its tux sleeve, as the NB1000 colourways are pure money.
Leaked within a moodboard carousel stacked with references to cold hard cash, the resulting NBs are as crispy as a $100 bill. While names are yet to be revealed, the first CNCPTS x NB1000 iteration sports a layered make-up of dark green, white and sage panels, while a second pair below forgoes the sage tones for more white and replaces the dark green toe box with a black variation. There are also two predominantly white pairs – one looks to feature a white leather upper with green accents, while the other features a white mesh base with green panelling up top. Each pair then boasts a red ‘1000’ logo at the forefoot, as well as additional co-branded logos on the tongue.
So far, it’s yet to be revealed as to which pairs will be samples or Friends and Family exclusives, so until then make sure to stay locked for more info as it comes in!
PLAYING GAMES VOL. 10
UNCLE HERBY & MIRANDA RAE
PRESENTS…
PLAYING GAMES
w/ GANGSTER.BUY.FLOWERS
2/19/25 (WED) 6PM-10.30PM
BOARD GAMES | STRATEGY GAMES
MULTI PLAYER CARD GAMES
VIDEO GAMES | WINE PONG | TRIVIA GAMES
ADMISSION IS FREE
---> PLEASE RVSP
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED (BYOB)
FMI: TXT/EML
617.651.0809
WOODY.ROCKWELL@GMAIL.COM
PIANO CRAFT GALLERY
793 TREMONT STREET
BOSTON MA, 02118
-----------
The “Gangsters Buy Flowers” brand is about highlighting the duality of man. The art of having a tough exterior but having a softer side. Hustling all day, but picking up a bouquet for the house on your way home. GBF is having a love & admiration for life & the beautiful atmosphere that flowers create. The “Gangsters Buy Flowers” brand is about highlighting the duality of man. The art of having a tough exterior but having a softer side. Hustling all day, but picking up a bouquet for the house on your way home. GBF is having a love & admiration for life & the beautiful atmosphere that flowers create. Established 2017
New World Coming
A Juried Exhibition from Violence Transformed Celebrating Recent Ancestor Bernice Reagon Johnson of Sweet Honey in the Rock
February 15 - March 2, 2025
There’s a new day comin’, everything’s gon’ be turning over, Everything’s gon’ be turning over, where you gon’ be standing when it comes?”
-Bernice Johnson Reagon (October 4, 1942 – July 16, 2024)
Violence Transformed invites viewers to “New World Coming,” a juried multi-media arts exhibit uplifting the words, sounds and spirit of Bernice Johnson Reagon. The exhibit focuses on the art and activism of socially engaged artists in and beyond Boston. We are living in times where art allows us to heal but also enters into critical conversations that allows all facets of our community to be seen. Bernice Johnson Reagon led us with her voice for nearly half a century, speaking and singing out for freedom and justice. The words to her song, “New World Coming,” feel like a premonition for the moment we are in as a people.
Violence Transformed is an annual series of visual and performing arts events that celebrate the power of art, artists and art-making to confront, challenge and mediate violence. Violence Transformed events include visual arts exhibits and music, dance and theatrical performances hosted by multiple venues in Boston and beyond. Since 2015, Violence Transformed events have also included artist-led workshops for health care providers and provider-led, trauma-informed workshops for artists and activists working with individuals, families and communities impacted by violence and the risk of violence.
Based primarily in the central and surrounding neighborhoods of Greater Boston, and drawing upon the creative energies of artists throughout New England, Violence Transformed documents the ways in which our diverse communities harness art’s potential to effect social change and materially transform our environments. Violence Transformed represents a vibrant collaboration among artists, activists, museum professionals, academics, and community service providers from diverse segments of the greater Boston area. Our work is made possible by the tremendous volunteer energy and creative gifts of our participants, by grant-funding for many of our workshop initiatives and, primarily, by donations from those who support our mission.
NINTENDO SWITCH 2
After months of rumors and leaks, Nintendo has officially unveiled its latest video game console, the Switch 2. Like its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch the Switch 2 can be used as a portable handheld system or at home connected to a TV.
The Switch 2 made its debut in a short video posted to Nintendo's YouTube channel on January 16. The console looks a lot like the original model but has a few new design flourishes. However, actual specifications are pending, so there's a lot we still don't know about the Switch 2' hardware, including its display type and exact graphical capabilities.
The Switch 2 price and exact release date also remain unknown, but it's launching later this year. Nintendo will share more details in another video set for release on April 2. Likewise, the company announced a series of hands-on events throughout April in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas where fans can try the system for the first time.
Though there's still much to learn about the console, here's everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2 so far, Nintendo's Switch 2 reveal trailer focuses mainly on the console's appearance, which is very similar to the original Switch. The Switch 2 features a display sandwiched between two removable Joy-Con controllers. The display can also be slotted into a dock that plugs into your TV.
The new Joy-Cons have a similar button layout as their predecessors, but rather than slide into place on the side of the display, they appear to snap into the console with magnets. A revised kickstand was also shown off, and the right Joy-Con appears to have one additional button.
Though details on the screen's panel type, resolution, and even its exact size were not announced, side-by-side images clearly show that the Switch 2's display is larger than the original Switch, which had a 6.2-inch screen.
Switch 2 will be more powerful than its predecessor, but its graphical capabilities are unconfirmed
As with any next-gen console, the Switch 2 will deliver graphical improvements over the original Switch. However, it remains to be seen just how powerful the new system will be. Nintendo hasn't revealed any details about the Switch 2's internal hardware.
Industry rumors have long hinted at 4K upscaling capabilities and performance similar to that of a PS4 Pro. But we'll have to wait until April 2 to see if those reports pan out.
The original Switch was limited to 1080p resolution in docked mode and 720p in handheld mode. A bump to 4K would be a welcome upgrade and put it on more equal footing with other modern consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
A new Mario Kart was shown, but that's all we know about Switch 2 games.
Nintendo's Switch 2 reveal trailer included a brief glimpse of what appears to be a new Mario Kart game running on the console. The last Mario Kart title was Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which hit the original Switch in 2017.
No other new games were shown off. However, Nintendo confirmed that the system will play new Switch 2 titles and most original Switch games in both physical and digital form. That said, some original Switch games may not be compatible.
Nintendo Switch 2 price, release date, and preorder details will likely be revealed in April
For now, Nintendo is still keeping the Switch 2's price and release date a secret. We know the console will launch in 2025, but that's about it. Full details are expected to be revealed on April 2, when the company will release another Switch 2 video.
The original Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017 for $300, while a slightly upgraded Switch OLED model launched in October 2021 for $350. A handheld-only model called the Switch Lite was made available in September 2019 for $200. Based on previous pricing, it's likely the Switch 2 will cost somewhere in the $300 to $400 range.
Steven Cohen Senior Tech Editor FOR BUSINESS INSIDER
PLAYING GAME VOL. 8
WOODY ROCKWELL & MIRANDA RAE
PRESENTS…
PLAYING GAMES
w/GREEN TIMES SOCIETY
12/18/24(WED) 6PM-10PM
JOIN US FOR GAME NIGHT
BOARD GAMES | MULTI PLAYER CARD GAMES
VIDEO GAMES | WINE PONG | TRIVIA GAMES
$20 ADMISSION
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED (BYOB)
FMI: TXT/EML
617.651.0809 WOODYROCKWELL@GMAIL.COM
145 PEARL STREET
BOSTON MA, 02110
INFLUENCER SERIES: PANEL EDITION
Happy Holidays! Join Us for another exciting Influencer Thursdays: Panel Edition
This is the last installment of the “Influencer Thursdays” series of 2024!
Panelist:
Fena Fenalon @fenafenelon | Rob Eugene @iamboston | Andrew Alicea @seaportbarbers
To make this even more special, we have collaborated with @bludot to celebrate this momentous event in their Seaport Boston Showroom. We will hear from a panel of dynamic entrepreneurs who are influencers in their own fields. We will dive into a dynamic discussion on fashion, art, and marketing in the digital age.
Date: 12-12-24
Time: 530PM-830PM
📍 Location: BLUDOT Boston Showroom
141 Seaport Blvd. Boston, MA
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights and network with industry leaders! Enjoy lite bites, refreshments and live music from @iamdjfanatic
Fena Fenelon
Fena Fenelon, CEO and founder of the Sofenomenal Agency Group (est. 2019), is a
Haitian-American, Brooklyn-born, Boston-based culture brand consultant. She specializes in strategically utilizing branding tools to showcase the diversity, richness, and dynamism of cultures around the world. With a keen eye for design, messaging, language, and storytelling, Fena helps businesses, organizations, and communities unlock their true voice and connect with their audience in an authentic, intentional, and impactful way.
Fena’s upbringing has shaped her creativity, inspiring her to blend her faith, passion for hip-hop, and love of culture and history. She believes art has been a cornerstone of cultural nourishment for generations and has made it her mission to prioritize art and creativity, orthe curation of art, at the heart of cultural progress. Fena and the Sofenomenal Agency Group have made a significant mark in Boston. The agency has become the go-to expert for all things branding in and around the city, boasting a vast portfolio of successful projects and happy clients. Some notable clients includes the WNBA Connecticut Sun, The City of Boston, Embrace Boston, PUMA, ESSENCE, Bloomingdale’s, and Uncle Nearest, among others. Fena is committed to creating meaningful and memorable experiences that drive results and make a lasting impact.
The Sofenomenal Agency Group focuses on building bold brands for new and pivoting businesses nationally. They strategically design visuals that enhance brand stories and build connections between businesses and customers. They also use their branding expertise to uniquely create safe spaces for the community they represent, with events such as BLVCKTOBERFEST and the BLACK OUTSIDE BLOCK PARTY, where they took over Downtown Crossing in collaboration with Kickback Boston & Bent, supported by The City of Boston & Downtown Boston Bid.
Rob Eugene
Robert Eugene, owner of New American restaurant, Hue Boston, Latin American restaurant, Rosebar and Ethiopian restaurant, Blue Nile, is a trailblazing entrepreneur and creative marketer, who has dedicated over two decades to transforming the nightlife entertainment, hospitality, and spirits industries in Boston. With a passion for breaking down barriers and opening doors for people of color, Robert has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in Boston.
His innovative approach to event creation, production, and experiential marketing, coupled with his expertise in on-premise management, has earned him a reputation as a visionary leader in the industry. Robert is also a co-curator of Silk R&B Party and World Afrika, both community-based events centered around celebrating culture and Black joy. Robert's intentionality in introducing spaces and creating spaces where people of color were previously denied or overlooked, is evident in all of his endeavors. Robert's goal is to help re imagine and shape a new Boston.
Andrew Alicea
Seaport Barbers by Andrew Aliciea. For the fellows who appreciate the fine art of a straight razor shave: veteran master barber Andrew Alicea invites you into the sleek, new Seaport Barbers, where soaring high ceilings and stylish accents set the perfect backdrop for your grooming needs.
Hair Seaport by Andrew Alicea is a cutting-edge salon providing a full service menu of color, cut, styling, as well as eyebrow and lash services. Their team will feature New England’s top and best emerging talent. Complementing its hair services, the salon also features eyebrow specialist Diandra Leigh Dente of DLD Brows who offers brow shaping as well as microblading, threading, and her signature form of micropigmentation that she calls “flowy brows.”
INFLUENCER SERIES
7L will be speaking about his picks of Todd Snyder's Fall '24 collection.
Enjoy live music, specialty cocktails, and a Q&A session.
WHEN: Thursday, 11/21/24
TIME: 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
WHERE: Todd Snyder Seaport, 70 Pier 4 BLVD.
DJ 7L is a Massachusetts based DJ/ Producer and 1/3 of member of Multi Media supergroup CZARFACE, along Boston's ESOTERIC and WU-TANG Clan's INSPECTAH DECK.
In CZARFACE 7L combines his interests in comics and music having released multiple comic books, a graphic novel, over 10 action figures as well as multiple trading cards and a collectable lunch box. Plus tons of additional merchandise like a CZARFACE beer and a CZARFACE sneaker collab with SAUCONY.
As a music group they have collaborative albums with MF DOOM as well as features from Method Man, Ghostface Killah, Action Bronson, Conway, Roc Mariano and many more.
Currently CZARFACE has music in the Sony Movie, Venom The Last Dance.
In addition to CZARFACE, 7L is the owner of Soundtracks a record store in Beverly MA, that specializes in collectable and hard to find records.
TODD SNYDER x WOODY ROCKWELLL
INFLUENCER SERIES featuring 7L (CZAREFACE & BLADERUNNERS)
REGGAE RECORDS
VINYL INDEX x JOHNNY CUPCAKES x WOODY ROCKWELL
presents…
PLASTIC DREAM’s REGGAE RECORDS
FRIDAY 10.25.24
AT HIGH STREET PLACE
100 HIGH STREET, BOSTON MA 02110
SELECTAHS
BOB GIBSON - VOYAGER:01 - KING ILABASH
PLAYING GAMES: THE POP-UP
PLAYING GAMES: THE POP-UP EXPERIENCE
Remember Field Day At School, Well It's Time For A Family Friendly Fun Day (Yes, That Means Bring The Kids). Join Us For A Day Of Fun In The Sun… Unleash Your Inner Child, As We Play Games On The MFA Lawn - Sunday September 8th, 2024 - 12PM - 4PM.
No Experience Necessary, Just Bring Your Friends, Family, And Even Your Beloved Furry Pets. We Are Recreating The Same Experience For You And Your Family. We Added KickBall, Face Painting For The Kids, Big Twister, Big UNO, And Some Other New Games. Don't Miss Out On This One-Of-A-Kind Event - Bring Lawn Chairs, Blankets, Your Snacks & Drinks.
MFA BOSTON x SIDE PRESENTS x MIRANDA RAE x WOODY ROCKWEL
EGO & INSECURITIES
RYAN HORTON “Ego & Insecurities”
Ego & Insecurities is Ryan Horton’s first solo exhibition that revolves around his intimate depiction of grappling with the delicate balance between ego and insecurities. In a society that often pressures us to project confidence while simultaneously highlighting our vulnerabilities, this show embraces the complexities of this internal battle and transforms it into visual narratives.
Ryan Horton is an artist from Lilburn, GA based in Boston, MA driven by curiosity of expression. As a Black man living in America, Ryan has always been taught to conform to survive in environments that were never meant for him. Because of this, throughout Ryan’s professional career he strives to push the boundaries of acceptance and expectations.
With his Master's in Architecture from Northeastern University and a Bachelor's of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art & Design, Ryan has been exposed to a number of creative methods and mediums that have pushed his passion to not only create but breathe purpose into his works. Utilizing his structured architectural foundation and the raw understanding of aesthetic purity, he has been able to explore multiple industries including architecture, experiential design, and graphic design. He now focuses on fine-tuning his expertise to accommodate his art career. Ryan’s work has been on display in a number of exhibitions such as the African American Museum of Dallas, Boston City Hall, MIT’s Koch Institute Public Gallery, and many more. He has also been featured in art publications including Artist Talk, New Visionary Magazine, and Create! Magazine.
As his art career continues to unfold, Ryan’s focus is on furthering his exploration of self through the freedom of artistic expression via mixed media.
Artist Statement:
Ego & Insecurities focuses on the internal struggle of balancing one's ego and insecurities. Through the medium of digital collage, I explore the human psyche to understand how personal dilemmas of self-worth, self-appreciation, and self-image create an internal tension that impacts the perception of self. With the overlay and manipulation of images in my collages, I create surreal and jarring compositions that channel and challenge my identity and expressions as a Black man in America and the stereotypes that come with it.
By doing so, I aim to combat the pressures to conform and the tendency to compare myself to who I am supposed to be, in hopes to allow myself to embrace both my ego and insecurities that make me who I am.
August 23 - September 8, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday August 23, 2024 6-8PM
Artist Talk: Sunday August 25, 3-4PM
Closing Reception: Sunday September 8, 2024 3-5PM
INFLUENCER SERIES
TODD SNYDER’s INFLUENCER SERIES
Join me at Todd Snyder Boston for the "Thursday Influencer Series" featuring
HERV JEANBAPTISTE (CREATIVE CONSULTANT & TASTEMAKER)
speaking about his pick on the first drop of Todd Snyder's Fall '24 collection.
Enjoy live music, specialty cocktails, and a Q&A session.
When: Thursday, 8/8/24
Time: 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: Todd Snyder Seaport, 70 Pier 4 BLVD.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
TODD SNYDER x WOODY ROCKWELLL x SUCCESS IS MY COLOGNE
RAPSODY: PLEASE DON'T CRY
RAPSODY: "PLEASE DON'T CRY"
NEW YORK (AP) — If truth has the power to set one free, then Rapsody’s new album, “Please Don’t Cry,” has removed her from emotional imprisonment and gifted her immeasurable liberation.
“People put up a mirror for me. I sat in the mirror myself…it was the beginning of healing. Heart-broke: Why do you feel like you can’t fill the void of whatever that was? Internally, why do you feel underappreciated?” questioned the three-time Grammy nominee. “And really allow myself, again, to just sit in a fire and burn. To forgive myself for some things. To accept some things. To learn to love myself.”
Rapsody’s not only frequently lauded by critics as the best female lyricist, but also as one of the best in the genre. After 2019’s critically-acclaimed “Eve” album, discussions by hip-hop purists erupted on social media and in barbershops near and far debating her potentially rivaling Kendrick Lamar for the lyrical throne. But the recognition hasn’t translated into the commercial success of some female peers — veterans like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, or recent newcomers like Megan Thee Stallion, Latto or Ice Spice. But her plight isn’t unusual for rappers labeled as “conscious” or extremely lyrical, regardless of gender.
“I was looking at what everybody else was doing instead of worrying about myself,” she said, soft-spoken throughout the interview. “I’d see comments (saying), ‘She makes great music, but she’ll never make it because she’s not half-naked or she don’t have a No. 1 hit.’ And I had to realize that those are really false measurements.”
“Please Don’t Cry,” released in May, is by far the most personal of her four studio albums. Dwindling more than 350 potential songs down to the final 22 tracks, the bulk of the production comes from HIT-BOY, BLK ODYSSY and S1, and boasts star-powered features including Erykah Badu and Lil Wayne. The regal voice of Phylicia Rashad is also sprinkled throughout.
The North Carolina native began constructing the album several years ago after a painful breakup and toward the beginning of the global coronavirus pandemic. Personal tales have always lived within her music, but the foundation of her catalogue is anchored by expert lyricism and musicality.
“I’ve always thought that I was authentic. But at the same time, I realized there was a level of fear there — a fear of allowing myself to be seen completely. But at that time, I don’t even think I completely even knew who I was,” said the 41-year-old Marlanna Evans who kept Lauryn Hill’s “MTV Unplugged No. 2.0” project in heavy rotation while creating, along with an evolving Pinterest board filled with pictures and words for inspiration.
“Please Don’t Cry” has a weightier R&B influence than past projects. Standout tracks include the Badu-assisted “3:AM,” the lead single “Asteroids,” “Stand Tall,” “Faith” and “God’s Light.” While her razor-sharp bars still slice on songs like “Raw” with Lil Wayne and Niko Brim, the album makes its mark by entering a new territory of unapologetic vulnerability. Rapsody touches on insecurities, not having a stronger female fanbase, family members battling dementia and speculation surrounding her sexuality.
One the surprisingly transparent “That One Time” the past Stevie Wonder, Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole collaborator provides a rare glimpse into her love life and past transgressions.
“One time, I had an experience with a woman. But I also bring up that I was with somebody that wasn’t available,” said the Jehovah’s Witness-raised artist of her relationship with a married person, while suggesting her partner wasn’t fully honest. “I make mistakes, too — things I say I would never do, and then I find myself in a situation that I’m not proud of. But in my life and the conversations I have, I know I’m not the only one.”
Bianca Edwards, vice president of marketing for Roc Nation, says the vulnerability displayed showcases Rapsody’s security in her music and herself.
“You have to be extremely confident to bare your soul and not care what people think,” said Edwards. “And on this project, I think that she bared a lot.”
Always advocating for female rappers, Rapsody has consistently rejected praise meant to criticize her peers. But while there are songs like “Look What You’ve Done” in which she rhymes, “Don’t lift me up throwin’ shade/At my sisters that made it out wit’ a-- and bass,” she also raps, “Everything look cookie cutter/We seen enough a—, that sh-- ain’t special no more” on “Diary of a Mad Bitch.”
“I see my name brought up a lot of times used to put other women down for how they choose to show up in this art and in their life, and I’m not here for that. I’m not trying to make myself the standard. I’m just trying to make myself another example of what women in hip-hop look like to bring harmony,” said Rapsody. “With ‘Diary,’ it was me making an observation of everybody looks the same…I know we’re not clones.”
But despite a profession where cosmetic enhancements are common among female rappers – along with sexually-charged lyrics that contribute to their pop stardom – the “Complexion (A Zulu Love)” artist says she’s never considered altering her body.
“My question is why isn’t there space for me or others who are different from what we see on a mainstream level…why don’t we get those same opportunities?” asked the self-described tomboy who also suffers from Graves’ disease which can change physical appearance. “I never wanted to be anything other than who I was.”
Rapsody says while every artist dreams of creating a hit record, she’s not willing to compromise her musical integrity or chase songs that don’t feel natural to attract more fans.
“I think she already found her place,” said Edwards. “I work with a lot of artists, and I’ve met artists that are still trying to find themselves. That’s not Rap.”
A tour will launch in September with five European dates and a North American leg that will run through October.
“Please Don’t Cry” has fortified Rapsody’s healing journey, and she’s better for it.
“Everybody asks me about this album, like ‘How you feeling?’ I say I feel really happy and I’m at peace. And this is the most free I’ve ever felt,” she said. “I’m not putting pressure on myself to be defined as success through other people’s measurements of what that looks like.”
Associated Press Entertainment Journalist Gary Gerard Hamilton at: @GaryGHamilton
NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND
LAUNCHPAD RESIDENCY
NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND
PRESENTED BY CHUANG STAGE | WRITTEN BY BRANDON SANG | DIRECTED BY CARLA MIRABAL RODRÍGUEZ
MAY 29, 7PM | MAY 31, 8PM | JUNE 1, 2PM & 8PM
BCA BLACK BOX THEATRE
Check out this week's community nights with Nüwa in Fairyland!
Friday, 5/31, 8pm — Tea & Sweets Pop-Up with Panethenic Pourovers
Saturday, 6/1, 4pm — Special Scribble Sesh: Community Write Out in Fairyland
(Separate RSVP Required)
Tickets: Tickets are Pay-As-You-Are
Synopsis:
Written by Brandon Zang | Directed by Carla Mirabal Rodríguez
After getting cast as Puck in his high school production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Benji dives deep into method acting to prepare for his role. In the enchanted forest of foggy adolescence, he runs into a stranger: the Chinese creator goddess Nüwa (女娲). Does she hold the key to his birthplace as a transracial adoptee? Or will Benji never escape Fairyland? Conceived by Chinese Canadian playwright Brandon Zang, Nüwa in Fairyland fuses Shakespeare’s charm with Chinese folklore into a coming-of-age tale
*The play and the performance of Nüwa in Fairyland is aesthetically bilingual in Mandarin Chinese and English; English translation surtitles will be projected during Mandarin Chinese dialogues.
Location: BCA Black Box Theatre
Duration: 100 minutes without intermission
Friday, 5/24, 8pm — Queer AAPI Night with MAP for Health (Performance by Anju)
Saturday, 5/25, 2pm — Coffee & Bake Goods Pop-Up with Panethenic Pourovers
Saturday, 5/25, 8pm — Chinese Adoptee Night with China’s Children International
Thursday, 5/30, 7pm — Post-Show Conversation with Cast and Creative Team
Friday, 5/31, 8pm — Tea & Sweets Pop-Up with Panethenic Pourovers
Saturday, 6/1, 4pm — Special Scribble Sesh: Community Write Out in Fairyland
(Separate RSVP Required)
Cast
BENJI — Trevyn Wong
MARYANNE — Jen Lewis
MR. BAILEY — Matt Goldstein
DAMIAN — Henry Dolgoff
NUWA — Bowen Huang
BENJI/DAMIAN (U/S) — Phoenix Yuan
Creative Team
Playwright — Brandon Zang
Director — Carla Mirabal Rodríguez
Assistant Director — Kaye Hu
Dramaturg — Regine Vital
Movement Director — Fernadina Chan
Production Stage Manager — Winnie Chiang
Asst. Stage Manager (Rehearsal) — Emma J. Hunt
Asst. Stage Manager (Performance) — Kiera Turner
Production Manager — Becca Cottrell
Assistant Production Manager — Molly Bercutt
Scenic & Carpentry Lead — Devan McCulloch
Sound Designer — Anna Drummond
Prop Designer — Addie Pates
Scenic Designer — Qingan Zhang
Costume Designer — Sandra Zhihan Jia
Lighting Designer — Ashley Yung
BCA Plaza Theatres
539 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
Ticket are Pay-As-You-Are, Starting at $0! (Suggested Price: $25)
Consider becoming a monthly donor.
BC EAGLES x NEW BALANCE
Boston College Receives Special Edition of the New Balance 9060
New Balance continues to pay homage to the city of Boston. This time, the shoe brand has introduced a special edition colorway for Boston College with its New Balance 9060 silhouette. The shoe comes months after the brand announced the school-specific New Balance 550. Its second shoe dedicated to the school, the new colorway receives direct nods to the institutuion.
The “Boston College” iteration for the New Balance 9060 sees the shoe constructed in a mixture of materials. Mostly constructed out of a light grey mesh upper and suede overlays, the school’s maroon undertones hit the “N” branded on the side as well as the inner lining and parts of the sole. The tongue is elevated in leather while the school’s “BC” logo is stitched on top. The insoles feature Boston College’s “Eagles” inscription to celebrate their mascot and inject a dose of school spirit, on-theme with the design.
Look out for the New Balance 9060 “Boston College” arriving in the coming weeks at select retailers and online. Joyce Li
AYITI x BOSTON RED SOX
Join the Boston Red Sox in celebrating Haitian Heritage Month at Fenway Park on Friday, May 24! Show your Haitian pride and support as we honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Haitian-American community.
Did you know that Haiti is the first free Black republic in the world, the first independent state in the Caribbean, the second independent state in the Western Hemisphere after the United States, and the only country founded from a slave revolt? Boston is proud to be home to the third-largest population of Haitian immigrants in the nation. The Haitian community contributes mightily to the economic prosperity of our city in the healthcare field, our schools, transportation, and so many other areas.
Ticket holders who purchase tickets through this special offer will receive a Red Sox Haitian Celebration jersey, available in sizes Adult Small to XL, with preferred sizes on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to represent your heritage!
As May is recognized as Haitian Heritage Month, culminating with the celebration of Haitian Flag Day on May 18, the jerseys for purchase will proudly feature the iconic colors and symbol of the Haitian flag, serving as a symbol of unity and pride for the Haitian-American community.
Arrive early to enjoy vibrant cultural performances that showcase the diversity and spirit of Haiti. In addition to the exciting festivities, delicious Haitian food will also be available. Let's come together to celebrate and honor the legacy of Haitian-Americans at Fenway Park!
For questions or groups of 15 or more, please contact the Red Sox Ticket Office at ticketoffice@redsox.com.
PLAYING GAMES W/ MIRANDA RAE
WOODY ROCKWELL
PRESENTS…
PLAYING GAMES
W/ MIRANDA RAE
05/15/24(WED) 6PM-10PM
JOIN US FOR AN ADULT GAMING NIGHT
BOARD GAMES | MULTI PLAYER CARD GAMES
VIDEO GAMES | WINE PONG | TRIVIA GAMES
MIRANDA RAE: a captivating vocalist hailing from Boston, MA, was raised in the vibrant neighborhoods of ROXBURY and DORCHESTER, where her passion for music ignited at a tender age. Through her soulful musical expressions, Miranda has discovered her unique voice, resonating deeply with audiences. Recently honored as Vocalist of the Year by the prestigious Boston Music Awards, Miranda Rae draws inspiration from the unwavering love and support of her community and peers, propelling her musical journey forward. Her latest collaboration with DJ Fab, titled "Ain’t Easy," infuses her signature sound with a fresh, upbeat vibe that is bound to set hearts dancing. Experience Miranda Rae's enchanting melodies on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music, and connect with her on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where she goes by the handle @itsmirandarae.
MIRANDA RAE
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED (BYOB)
$20 SUGGESTED DONATION
FMI: TXT/EML
617.651.0809 / WOODYROCKWELL@GMAIL.COM
793 TREMONT ST.
BOSTON MA, 02116
NEW BALANCE 1906L LOAFER
NEW BALANCE 1906L LOAFER
“METALLIC SILVER” RELEASES IN 2024
Introducing the New Balance 1906L Loafer in “Metallic Silver”! After its initial debut in “Green”, this stylish shoe returns with a new look. Revealed at a Junya Watanabe runway show during Paris Fashion Week, it’s now gearing up for a broader release.
Crafted with a breathable grey mesh base and metallic silver leather accents, this version maintains its signature features. It boasts toe guards, a plastic heel counter, and a midsole while sporting a sleek black rubber sole for added elegance. The branding details like the “1906L” insignia, the iconic “N” logo, and “NB” branding enhance its fashionable appeal.
The New Balance 1906L Loafer “Metallic Silver” will hit shelves in 2024. It’ll be available at select New Balance retailers both in-store and online, including NewBalance.com. Coming in unisex sizes, the price for this trendy footwear is still under wraps.
In conclusion, the NB 1906L Loafer in “Metallic Silver” promises a blend of style and comfort. With its sophisticated design and iconic branding, it’s sure to make a statement in the world of fashion footwear. Stay tuned for its release and be ready to step out in style!
BY MARIO BRIGUGLIO
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER x KEITH HARRING
Jean Paul Gaultier’s Pride Perfume Bottles Get the Keith Haring Treatment.
Jean Paul Gaultier is ringing in Pride month with a new collaboration.
The Puig-owned brand is introducing limited-edition bottles of its annual Pride fragrance in Classique and Le Male flacons, fashioned after nude male and female torsos — this time, wrapped in Keith Haring’s “Once Upon a Time” mural.
They house a limited-edition fragrance, released for Pride month annually since 2022, with notes of blood orange and musky blond woods. Noses Nathalie, Cetto and Quentin Bisch composed the fragrance.
That mural lives in the NYC LGBT Community Center, also known simply as The Center, which honored the brand at its annual The Center Dinner on Thursday with the Corporate Impact Award. The Center also honored The Eagle, the gay bar owned by Derek Danton and Robert Berk, with the Community Impact Award.
“We began to work with [The Center] four years ago and have increased to the highest corporate sponsorship level since, allowing us to enhance not only our monetary donation but our partnership efforts,” said Frédéric Appaire, vice president of Jean Paul Gaultier Parfums. “The collaboration was established in a very natural way. Since we’ve been building a strong relationship with The Center for years, their team introduced us to the Keith Haring Foundation and offered us the possibility to use Keith Haring’s mural.”
The collaboration comes at a time of the brand’s “unprecedented era of success worldwide, both in fashion and fragrances,” Appaire said. “The U.S. market is a key step in our international growth and recent results confirm our high potential. In 2023, Le Male Elixir became the largest Le Male launch ever in this market; in 2024, we open a promising new feminine chapter with the launch of Gaultier Divine.”
As reported, 2023 sales in the Americas for Puig hit 1.4 billion euros — an 18 percent gain. In the U.S. specifically, fragrance was a significant growth driver. Puig has also since announced plans to file for an IPO in Spain.
“In addition to providing lifesaving programs and services for all LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers, The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center stands as a vibrant hub for LGBTQIA+ culture in New York City, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions,” said Dr. Carla Smith, The Center’s chief executive officer, in a statement. “It’s an honor to have our longtime partner, Jean Paul Gaultier, reproduce and celebrate our permanent art installation, Once Upon a Time by Keith Haring, to be enjoyed by a new audience.”
BY JAMES MANSO
The Puig-owned brand has refashioned its Classique and Le Male perfume bottle shapes with prints of Keith Haring's "Once Upon A Time" mural.