#clashofcrowns

This year, Valentine’s day fell on a tuesday, but that didn’t hinder Valentine’s Day weekend activities. The city was full of love, excitement and a hint of drama. Tel had the pleasure of attending some of the events in the city. She was in for  a lovely surprise at the end of the weekend, when she attended Clash of the Crowns.

This weekend was full of fun and events! On Thursday the weekend began, with the Can Jam held at William Street Common and Lean On Thursdays at Pubb Webb. Friday rolled around, and after a single revelation, Tel opted to go out again and love herself on Valentine’s Day. Friday night kicked off with Underground POV. A live showcase of audio artist and visual artist. Also occurring that night,was the birthday party for hip-hop up and comer Khaleef Washington. On top of a birthday party, it was coupled with the new release of his latest album, The Karma Collection 2. DJ KidRoc spun the sounds, and the crowd awaited a special guest appearance by R&B singer Sammie. The party was hosted at Trilogy Nightclub, a three story lounge and hookah bar. Be sure to check it out one weekend, they close at 3am, making it the perfect after hours.

Fast forward to Sunday!!!! Host, J.R Morris and DaPhoxx, hosted Clash of The Crowns, a meeting of perspectives. I just couldn’t wait to discuss the event. Hosted at Venture Forth located at 417 N. 8th Street, there was complimentary food, an open bar for a bit and amazing conversation. The evening began with an ice-breaker. Participants had to gather the initials of those who you shared something in common with. I had some questions about some of the questions, but it was a great way to get to mingle and know everyone.

To fit the theme of the evening (Egypt, there were pyramids, asps and crowns everywhere) the drinks were fit for royalty. I was privy to the Nefertiti. Yes. The drinks were great, but I was a bit apprehensive on attending a meeting of the sexes. Only, because stereotypically, these events can become, frankly, quite  boring and repetitive. The conversation leads into topics like sex on the first date, women not wanting to “look stupid”, men being misogynist, women being whores...the list goes round and round into a fit of circular reasoning. HOWEVER ! This event took me by surprise.

Let’s start with the set up, this event was tailored for royalty. Recently many of us consider ourselves Kings and Queens, in order to uplift ourselves and each other. The energy in the room could be described as a chill curiosity. Millennials, blending and meshing with some GenXers and a sprinkle of baby boomers had all come together for a night of fun. None of us knew what to expect, but I back to my previous sentiment, attendees who have been in these settings before may have held reservations. Once settled, a call was established by J.R Morris, the King host to reel the crowd back in, He said “rain drop” the crowd responded “drop top” and the games began. Kings and Queens had written something that they wished their counterpart would do, notice or know. Statements varied, from empowering to someone wishing their mate knew they were pregnant! The fun continued as the Kings and Queens went head to head to answer questions that each sex would generally know, to the opposite sex. For example, the Kings were asked to name three nail shapes while the Queens were asked to name three NBA players with sneakers. We all shared a laugh and it was good fun. A “The Newlywed Game”  like game was played where those who were already in relationships, tested their knowledge on one another. Although, some of the men ended up in hot water before the night’s end, the singles in the room enjoyed a good laugh at their expense.

The Quenn host, Da Phoxx, had introduced us into a game of listening skills...because each sex feels that the other does not listen. We were able to prove one another wrong, by pulling out as many details as possible from a story told by our counterparts. I feel the ears were at alert due to competition, but I’m just a blogger. On a more serious note, Da Phoxx and J.R Morris, performed jaw dropping spoken word that tapped into the perspectives of both sides. A collective “hmmm” fell over the room. The men were able to gain a better understanding and see that women aren’t “crazy” while the women could get a look into a man’s feelings.

I could go on and on about the activities, but that wasn’t the only fun! The vendors were unbelievable. JahzaraTheJewel who is a singer, songwriter, fashion designer and craftress came with beautiful cloths straight from the mother-land. Desmond Noland, artist and designer was there modelling his own custom made pieces and art work. Malkia Sanaa was also vending her art work. Along with Royal Peaces and author Mitchell Chance who writes inspirational books for young black men. If you missed it, please follow J.R Morris and Da Phoxx for more upcoming events in the city. I guarantee you do not want to miss out again !