Happy New Year! If you’re reading this, you’re probably gearing up to get back in your full routine for 2020. Today’s Thirsty Thursday post features an experience review and double-take on two great drinks I tried at Hide in Dallas, TX. There’s a bit of good news and bad news here. The good news is you’ll get to find out specifics on these great holiday drinks. The bad news – the drinks are no longer available (since the holiday pop has ended).
Hide brought in the holiday season in style with their Miracle at Hide Christmas Pop Up. I got a chance to check it out earlier this week and tried two of their signature drinks while I was there. The first drink I tried was the Yippie Ki Yay Mother F$%^#@r! If you’re a fan of rum drinks this one is for you. Overall, the drink has a strong tropical taste. Although the drink came in a Santa shaped mug, it’s got a serious bite. What’s in it? Barbados Rum, Cachaca, Trinidad Overproof Rum, Purple Yam & Coconut Orgreat, and Pineapple. Amazing.
Now, for the second drink – SanTaRex. This drink comes out in a mug suited for Jurassic Park and it tastes just as wild. The flavors here are stronger, with a little less of a festive feel and more of nightcap vibe. The drink includes Rye Whiskey, Oloroso Sherry, Spiced Apple Cider Concentrate, Lemon Juice, Hard Cider, and Baked Apple Bitters. If you like apples, this drink is the perfect gift for you.
I plan on visiting Hide again soon, without all their holiday flare. Their green chile chicken tamales and chips and queso are pretty tasty too. Visit Hide for some unforgettable cocktails. However, you’ll just have to wait until the end of the year to experience their Miracle at Hide Christmas Pop-Up again.
Oh, joy. It’s that time of year again. New year’s resolutions will begin flooding my timeline. All the grandiose 2020 goals are surefire this year because…well, it’s 2020. At least that’s what everyone will have you think. If you’ve followed my blog for a long time, you know I’m not a huge fan of new year’s resolutions. In my opinion, resolutions should be called “easily broken promises” we make to ourselves. To each his/her own. I don’t judge but that’s just my stance on it.
So, in keeping with the tradition (at least my own), I don’t have a new year’s resolution for 2020. However, I do have a goal or mantra of sorts that will be my focus all year: 20/20 Vision with Intention. What does that even mean? So many times in the past, I have set goals for myself that I had no vision to see through to the end. I was just going through the motions and in some cases, just following the path for goals I truly didn’t even want….they just “felt like” the right thing to do.
Whether it’s because of fear of success, responsibility, or the sheer sweat, blood, and tears it takes to reach our most lofty goals, we often fall short because we don’t plan. Moving forward, I’m at least identifying the goals I want. I may not know exactly how I’m going to get there, but it’s easier to achieve if you can see it.
Intention. Ah, yes that part. Setting goals is the easy part, but in my opinion intention and passion go hand in hand. In the past, if my goals lacked intention, I likely didn’t meet them. This time, I want to see my goals and execute them with specific intentions (spiritually, physically, mentally, financially, etc).
Who wants to join me in making the new year one for the record books with 20/20 Vision with Intention? Whatever we do, even if we look back on it as a mistake, let’s make it clear (20/20 vision) and intentional.
I recently caught up with a great friend at a restaurant we both love, Pappadeaux. I tried two of the drinks there but decided to use one of them to share with you all today. In fact, I’ve been a little behind in getting my Thirsty Thursday reviews out but I digress. The first drink I tried was Blueberry Apple Mule. I won’t go into detail about this one since I’ve reviewed a couple of mule inspired drinks. Nonetheless, just know that it was great – and I would try it again.
Now, on to the Henny Penny. Honestly, the name initially drew me into this one. Hennessy was another selling point for me. I decided to go out on a limb and try something new. After all, we were at Pappadeaux. The likelihood of me disliking the drink was very low. Thankfully I was right on the penny (or rather, the money). I know….I couldn’t resist.
The Henny Penny consisted of Hennessy V.S., lemon juice, house-made pomegranate cherry grenadine, blackberries, and Moscato d’Asti. Often times, drinks that mix subtle, sweet, and strong flavors come up with short with meeting the expectations of my taste buds. However, the Henny Penny is an infectious blend of smooth flavors that pack a potent kick with a sweet kiss at the end. Yep, it’s that good. My only complaint is the drink should come in a larger glass.
Hopefully, you all are enjoying the festive holiday season! If my plans work accordingly, I’ll have a very exciting review to share for next week’s Thirsty Thursday post. Bottoms up!
Last Friday, Akela Renae and I hosted a holiday book signing event at one of my favorite restaurants, The People’s Last Stand. We had a great time at the event and had some great food too. Oh, and did I mentioned the drinks? You can never go wrong with any of the cocktails The People’s Last Stand offers. Although it was difficult to make a decision, I settled on trying their Rum the Jewels.
I know….sounds regal, right? That’s what I thought too. Rum the Jewels consists of banana-infused Anejo rum, pineapple, orange, coconut, strawberry, and a sensational mix of vanilla, nutmeg, and honey. Let me be clear that I’m not a fan of bananas (even though I like banana chips). I was a little cautious about trying this drink, but the manager assured me the banana taste was subtle.
The drink has a rich, silky, and sweet taste with layers of flavor. The manager was right that the banana flavor was not overpowering. In fact, the drink was garnished with banana chips (not real bananas) and fresh strawberries. I had two Rum the Jewels drinks and would have gone for a third if I didn’t fear looking like a lush.
But wait…..the book. What book were we promoting last week? I’m so glad you asked. If you haven’t checked out Only for One Night, make sure you read it to find out about the secret life of the Grimes. Get your copy HERE and drink up….it’s Thirsty Thursday!
I first heard of the Canadian DJ and producer, Kaytranada, on Mary J. Blige’s “Telling the Truth”, one of the diamonds in the rough from her Strength of a Woman album. Although it’s been three years since his debut album, 99.9%, his presence in the music in the music industry has extended well into the last decade. I didn’t really have many expectations before listening to BUBBA. However, I had a hunch it was going to be worth my while.
The production throughout BUBBA alone is enough to make it irresistible to sit still while listening to it. In fact, my first listen took place while I was working out. Let’s just say I killed that workout. While the album is packed full of strategically placed cameos, Kaytranada manages not to lose his flair in the process. His DJ skills are even apparent between the transitions of each song. BUBBA comes off more as one irresistible track, rather than individual songs.
The (at times) disjointed production doesn’t deter from the infectious grooves BUBBA provides. “Do It”, the opening track starts off like a Blaxploitation blast from the past, before transitioning into the futuristic Caribbean pop feel of “2 the Music” featuring Iman Omari. There’s no question that “Gray Area” is a surefire hit and upbeat dance track. Conversely, “10%” featuring Kali Uchis, is the lead single that speaks to a concept we all can relate to: getting our just profits. The late Ol Dirty Bastard would be proud. The song sounds like an updated version of his Kelis assisted smash, “Gimme My Money”.
“Taste” featuring VanJess, is one of the album’s sexier tracks that implores a potential lover to step up to the plate in more ways than one. Expect this one to be a BUBBA fan favorite. Similarly, “Oh No” featuring Estelle is a bare-bones percussive groove with hypnotic hooks and melodies. Conversely, the slick pun intentions and wit of “Vex Oh” provide a tale of falling for the wrong woman, with the help of GoldLink, Eight9fly and Ari PenSmith. The song is the hit that just slipped away from the B side of Drake’s “One Dance”….but more intriguing.
The only bad thing that can be said about the album is the promotion for it should be rolling in like a tidal wave. There are literally no skips here, just solid production and clever lyrics throughout. However, something tells me BUBBA‘s success will still be substantial, due to word of mouth alone.
I have become a fan of Max Berga’s music over the last several years. His poignant tunes with his group Everywhere, and his own solo material has struck a musical cord to my ears. Now, he lends his pen to other artists. His latest song is for Jovani. Their latest collaboration is a pop-influenced love ballad, featuring the vocals of John Duff.
The song cuts straight to the chase, with John Duff crooning about removing the smoke and mirrors of love. He’s tired of playing love games. “Show me someone who does pain better than I do,” he sings. Lyrically, the song does a great job of exhibiting straightforward declarations and mysterious intentions. The production is light, yet foreceful, which pairs well with John Duff’s distinct vocals.
Overall, this song arrives just in time for the holidays with a light, upbeat feel. The house sound of the production makes it an easily danceable track, with lyrics that dig below the surface. The subject matter of the song is something we all deal with at some point – expressing our feelings about love. Expect this song to hit big this Fall. Max Berga and Jovani prove they have audible chemistry that’s worth taking notice of.
This time last year, I had just finished wrapping up a novel. My plan was to release it at the beginning of 2020. My creativity for writing was off the charts at that time. I was about to release the hardest book I had ever written, Eleven: Things We Never Said. Plus, the third installment of my novel series, When the Cookie Crumbles, had been completed a few months prior.
How does the old saying go? Make plans and watch God laugh? That’s exactly what happened in December of 2018. I talked to a friend and fellow author, Akela Renae about the idea of a joint book. We immediately started bouncing concepts back and forth before we landed on Only for One Night. By the time the new year hit, we were full force ahead into the writing the novel.
Only for One Night, my 10th book. marks a couple of firsts for me. For instance, it’s my first collaborative book. Plus, it’s by far the steamiest book I’ve ever written. What makes it so hot? I’m glad you asked. Craig and Vanessa Grimes are head of Pinnacle Church in Dallas, TX. The congregation is growing by leaps and bounds, all while the church is drawing near to its tenth-anniversary celebration. There’s only one small problem. The Grimes live a secret, seductive life outside of the sanctuary.
This is one book you don’t want to miss out on. Although the story is fictional, we all know someone (or maybe we are that someone) who is caught up in a secret they accidentally get addicted to. Today is the last day of our presale special. Get your copy today HERE.
Plus, check us out tonight on It’s the ADD Show on Tha Afterparty Radio. Tune in to the show at 9 pm CST tonight. Click HERE to listen or watch the live stream on Tha Afterparty Radio Facebook page. Call in to the show at 214-717-4827 to ask us your questions.
Last week, I was in the UK for work. Although my time there was primarily filled with juggling tasks, I managed to carve out some fun on the weekends. Work hard, play hard…right? Hands down, the most memorable drink I tried there was Confessions of a Cucumber Salesman. I know you thought I came up with this blog title with my own creative wit….but, not this time. It’s best to explain this one without any chaser.
I visited the London Cocktail Club on Old Street, which is where I tried this amazing drink. What’s in it? This cool, powerful, tangy goodness has cucumbers (of course), elderflower, lemon, prosecco, and Grey Goose La Poire. Don’t ask me what proportion of each ingredient is in the drink. I have no idea. All I know is I could really go for another one soon. Somehow, the drink cleverly catered to my sweet, sour, spicy and tangy senses all in one sip. Amazing.
Believe me, if you have this drink (or a close variation of it), you won’t be disappointed. If so, then you may just need to get your tastebuds checked. It’s that good. London brought their best foot (and shaker) forward with the first international edition of Thirsty Thursday. Bottoms up!
Lil Kim just released her fifth studio album, 9. Her career has spanned nearly 25 years, with classic hits like “Crush On You”, “Ladies Night (Not Tonight Remix)”, “Lighters Up” and “The Jump Off”. Now, she’s back with new music and ready to shake up Hip Hop again. In fact, she has stated 9 will have two parts, with the second installment coming soon.
Here’s why Lil Kim is still the Queen Bee after all these years.
Jump Off on the Moment
Lil Kim still knows how to strike while the iron is hot, something many 90s artists have yet to master. She seized the moment of a successful TV show, Girls Cruise (also featuring Mya and Chilli) and kept the momentum going by immediately releasing a new album after the show ended.
Crushin’ on the Competition
Although Nicki Minaj and Cardi B may be leading sales these days with combined streaming singles totals, Lil Kim has sold over 15 million albums worldwide. Her album stats are an impressive feat that only a handful of female rappers have managed to beat.
Trophies Up
Lil Kim’s career is now in the stage for her to start receiving the “lifetime achievement” kind of recognition for contributions to Hip Hop. She just received BET’s I Am Hip Hop Icon award, on the heels of her new album release. Ironically, she publicly critiziced BET for her not recognizing her music before now….rightfully so.
No Time to Prove
Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed by some of the tracks on 9, including the new single, “Found You”. The track samples the Bubba Sparxxx and Ying Yang Twins classic, “Ms. New Booty”. Although the production is a bit dated, Lil Kim proves she still as sexy and downright raunchy as ever. At this stage in her career, her mark has been made and she’s clearly just having fun.
Big Bee Hive Thang
Anyone born in the 90s probably credits Beyonce for coining the term Bey Hive. While the spelling is all hers, Lil Kim’s fan base actually had the name first – affectionately called the Bee Hive.
Money, Power, Respect
Every current female rapper that uses sex to sell their music (in some form or fashion), took a page from Lil Kim’s book. Everything from bright colored wigs, to racy outfits and being overtly sexually explicit all started with Lil Kim. Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Megan thee Stallion, and City Girls have all sampled Lil Kim’s swagger at one point or another.
It’s Ladies Night…Again
Thankfully, Lil Kim used her recent reality series, Girls Cruise, as a way to highlight all of her celebrity friends in a positive light. She proved that women can get along and still provide some entertaining prime time TV in the process. She should be commended for not using her celebrity status in a trashy manner.
The Notorious C.E.O.
Lil Kim was one of the first female rappers (and rappers period) to start her own label, Queen Bee Entertainment, in 1999. She released her own albums through the label, with the help of a distribution deal from eOne. Queen moves indeed.
The Magic Stick
9 is Lil Kim’s first studio album in 14 years. The recent buzz and hype surrounding it proves that while she was gone, she wasn’t forgotten. Her formula of sex, female empowerment and over the top fashion has cemented her place in Hip Hop and Pop culture.
Today marks the release of John Patrick Adams’s new single, “I Made It”. The song is a beautifully poignant reminder that we can make it against all odds, with God. “I Made It” gives an immediately audible embrace of peace and tranquility. Anyone can relate to the song’s transparent lyrics of hope and triumph.
Rachel Cotton is the featured vocalist on the song. Her voice is unmistakably unique and rich. After hearing “I Made It”, I had to find out who Rachel Cotton was and find out more about her. I was able to catch up with her this week and ask her a few questions about the song, the process of her ministry and some of her greatest influences.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
John actually picked up on it, but Whitney Houston is a big one. He asked me if I was influenced by her. There are six of us; five girls (my sisters), including myself, and one brother. I’m number five of the six. We grew up singing in the church. I wanted to sing lead and my oldest sister said, “You can’t sing”. So, I wanted to prove her wrong.
My mom’s voice is really anointed too. So her and my sisters are big influences too. We grew up listening to a lot of Shirley Caesar.
Is there any artist of today that you think could be the next Whitney or Shirley Caesar?
As far as females, Maranda Curtis’s voice is unreal. Brian Courtney Wilson’s ministry is amazing too. He does a great job of merging the soulfulness of music with what’s current and going on today.
How does “I Made It” speak to you specifically?
When I first got the song, I was honored to do it. I was listening to the lyrics and trying to find out what the message was for me. I believe songs have a personal message for everybody. It’s very relevant to everything I have going on in my career. I recently got my administrative certification (in the teaching field). The job search process is not what I thought it would be.
I’ve made a name for myself in the district but the jobs aren’t necessarily coming along. That song reminded me of what’s to come. Even if I’m not there yet, I need to celebrate where I am. It reminds me of all the trials I’ve been through. Plus, it tells me to remember it’s not about me and what I want. It’s about going through the process. God has a message for all of us.
Do you have any rituals or things you like to do before ministering a song?
Just really spending a lot of time with the song; listening to it and making a personal connection. I actually go into my garage. The acoustics in there are awesome. My family knows to let me work through the process when I’m in the garage.
How do you think Gospel music specifically has changed over the years and where is it headed now? The lines are a bit blurred now between gospel and other genres.
I definitely get what you’re saying. The lines are more blurred now. I think that speaks to people trying to ensure that their music is listened to. They are trying to reach the mainstream audience. I don’t necessarily have an issue with it because you’re meeting people where they are….as long as it doesn’t interfere with the message.
The cadence of some songs can make you wonder if they are going to the club or not. The Clark Sisters were one of the first to be played in the club. It’s all about the intentions of the artist to me.
Are there any other recordings you have coming up?
I don’t at that moment. If John calls, I’m there though. Whenever I sing, I want it to be intentional; not a performance. I realize it’s not about me. Someone will hopefully be blessed by the message. I told John that’s what I struggle with. I don’t want it to ever feel like just a performance…it’s so much bigger than that.
Check out a snippet of “I Made It” by John Patrick Adams featuring Rachel Cotton below. The single is available now on all online digital retailers.
