I’ve been busy doing life and trying my best to stay present in these moments that I often forget I could be writing about all that I’ve seen, done, and explored. If the month of March has taught me anything about this new life and area I’m living in, it’s to listen and follow my intuition. The universe tends to react based on how in tune I am with self and so after feeling overwhelmed I made sure to recenter myself last week with some art, music, and food. The 3 keys to my heart.
Lucky Daye at The Novo
For it to be my first time back in these concert streets, the Lucky Daye show was hands down the best I’ve ever been to in awhile. I went to see Musiq Soulchild late last year and if you were there at Yoshi’s that night we won’t get into it but just know it wasn’t giving what it should gave lol. Anyways! Standing room only, we were close enough to catch the chocolate New Orleans serenade in the flesh, but comfortable enough to have space to dance and sway to the live music. Not to mention, I really enjoyed the turquoise green and magenta two piece coordinates him and his crew rocked on the stage. Very aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Some dude in front of us kept hogging the arm rest but he ended up being cool and told me all about who plays in Lucky Daye’s band. It’s always dope to know about the whole production so if you know a guitarist named Chris in LA, send me his IG.
It wouldn’t be a show in Los Angeles without bringing out some artists; Alex Aley, Smino, Ella Mai, and Masego came out on their features to give the crowd the razzle dazzle we needed. I was honestly impressed that Joyce Wrice was the only opener (that I saw cause I was late walking in) and Lucky Daye went straight into his set and wasted no time giving us his all.
At one point Lucky Daye stopped and told the crowd that we are different and unique, trend setters, like his kinda people for being there with him. He thanked us for believing in him at the time when he wanted to give up on his dream as an artist. That definitely resonated cause it takes a unique individual to come down to the Novo, get standing room only tickets to swoon and support what I still feel is a new artist experiencing a breakthrough to their career. I love discovering new artists in the beginning of their journey so shout out to the guy I dated some time ago who put me on and then ghosted me shortly after. You are appreciated! Lol
Fixins Soul Kitchen
I’ve been hearing great things about the new black owned restaurant that opened up right in the heart of LA Live called Fixins Soul Kitchen. I would be remiss if I didn’t check out while I was in the area for my self care day. My plan was to go see the Tupac exhibit “Wake Me When I’m Free” and then grab a bite to eat nearby before heading back to the beach. My homegirl mentioned Fixins as well (hey Shauna!) so it was only right that I pull up. A good time to go if you’re solo and have time is during the late lunch hour so that your time spills over into happy hour where you can get discounts on their drinks and apps. I ended up trying the fried green tomatoes which were yummy and the shrimp and grits. Now, I love a good tomato base but this dish deserved a chef’s kiss.
The bartender Makenzie took really good care of me and I had some great company and people watching next to me as I sat at the bar. The only downside about Fixins for me, is the location. I don’t think the atmosphere of LA live is for me but if I so happen to be around, I’d definitely eat there.
4 Jada.
When I am in need of creative inspiration, it makes perfect sense for me to find a museum to get lost in. I had seen folks post about it so I decided to check out the latest Tupac Shakur instillation that was also located at LA Live. Now, this attraction was definitely for tourists and the IG influencers so if you plan to learn something you didn’t already know about one of the greatest artists of all time, don’t hold your breathe. But do hold space for this curated experience if you’d like to reminisce on the influence Tupac had on hip hop, fashion, and culture itself. He’s an icon and deserves all the flowers. I did get lost in one part of the exhibit where all his notebook pages were on display. I always found Jada and Tupac’s relationship as friends so deeply fascinating and he described it perfectly and so openly in love with her.
As always, you can follow me on IG @queenreesa and I’ll do my best to capture moments in real time but until the next time I decided to write again I’ll leave you with this poem.
