Mix and mingle in Atlanta
It’s been a super busy week with about 20 different events going on in the city! It’s one of the many reasons I love Atlanta. I went to a film festival, listened to live hip hop music, Nina Simone tribute that was a spoken word/art event and singles mixer! I am exhausted as that sounds but I had a wonderful time running around town. I will tell you about the events in more detail next week.
On Tuesday, I braved the crowd and ventured to Buckhead to attend the 13th Annual Unsigned Urban Showcase the Havana Club in Atlanta. The event was hosted by R&B crooner Lloyd and DJ Drama, the showcase featured performances by hip-hop heir apparent Drake and Atlanta-bred Travis Porter.
One of the exciting moments for me was when BMI Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations Catherine Brewton and members of Organized Noize and Goodie Mob presented rapper/producer Big Boi with the Legends of ATL Award. I am a HUGE OutKast fan, so it was great to see Bib Boi aka Sir Luscious Left Foot!
After I stopped pouting about being in a club on a Tuesday night, I relaxed a bit and had a great time catching up with my friend “SuperStar.” We mingled around as she caught up with friends, including one of the BMI representatives. Let me tell you, there are a lot of perks to knowing people in high places! He was kind enough to help us throughout the evening and kept us posted on Drake’s E.T.A. on stage.
The crowd was getting bigger and bigger, and it was getting later and later. I have been wanting to see Drake perform live since the buzz about him began. Just when I was feeling too old and too irritated to endure that crowd, Drake came on stage. I was pretty impressed by his stage presence. He worked the crowd and really did his thing. I get why there was so much industry buzz about him.
It ended up being a really great event that made me almost fall back in love with hip hop again. One thing I noticed about the crowd that night was that it was pretty diverse. I know I felt older *cough* then the average attendee, but the truth is there were people there of all ages.
When you go out, are you mindful of the age range of people? For the younger readers, do you prefer to hang out at events with people in your age/demographic? How can you tell when an event is geared toward you?
Are there certain places or events that you totally rule out because you know that the crowd won’t be your scene? Is it a good idea to discount any place you have a preconceived notion about? I actually met an older man, in the music industry while we were in line. He was pretty cool and not African American, so I would not necessarily have expected to swap business cards with someone like him that night. Which is my point. Do we mix and mingle with an open mind?
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601 comments Add your comment
Raqi...Working for The Man
April 23rd, 2010
10:11 am
lurker, that’s funny. Yeah Atlantic Station gets very younger crowdish in the evenings. Especially on the weekends.
The only time we go there is when going to Fox Sports Grill which we really only like to do during lunch.
Evening dining is usually places more on our side of town or north of there. Outside the perimeter.
Luvbug
April 23rd, 2010
10:12 am
Amazon – I guess not that young but close enough. LOL. Maybe I am being a prude though b/c sometimes I even want the curfew in the day time…which happened recently when I had to listen to two young folks have a loud yet philosophical convo about who is a realer mc…Gucci Mane Man or Waka Flaka.
To top it off, one talked like Gucci and the other like Waka.
Let me stop. Luvbug love da kids. I used to be one (yesterday).
abc
April 23rd, 2010
10:12 am
I’m a musician; musicians don’t like hip-hop. Hip hop is not that musical, there’s not that much you can musically do with it. I’ve been a musician for a long time, and I don’t play clubs anymore, only concerts and private parties. That’s a relief! The club scene is pretty tawdry, even under the best conditions. Likewise, I don’t patronize clubs. After years of playing venues of anywhere from 200 to 35,000 people, I just don’t care for the crowds. Mix and mingle? Have at it, but it’s not an interest of mine.
I’m not that mindful of the ages of people I associate with. I have friends and acquaintances that are up to 25 years on either side of my age, and we relate to each other just fine. More important than our ages are our inclinations and belief systems. Those inclinations and belief systems don’t really include our participation in events that amount to not much more than a hookup scene.
i'm swiss
April 23rd, 2010
10:13 am
Morning all…
@ AmRed — I’ve heard of Johnny’s Hideaway. I always heard that was a spot for cougars, but I guess the old dudes are on the prowl there, too… Or maybe it’s old couples looking to swing with the young ‘uns….?
So, last summer one of the groomsmen from my wedding also got married & I was the only whiteboy in the wedding party… For the bachelor party, we ended up at Goosebumps… (which, for me, was heaven…)
Anyway, we walk in the door & there are a grand total of 2 of my people in the whole joint — me, and 1 dancer. Within 30 seconds of walking in, the 1 white girl dancer makes a beeline over my way, asking if I want a dance… 
The rest of the the guys in our crew just laughed & patted the girl on the head… “silly child…. you don’t know THIS ONE…” 
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:14 am
Luv – yeah you know what time it is when the music goes from Sade to Nikki Minaj. You know when people start scrubing the ground and gettin low its time to bounce..
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:15 am
Raqi – I was just thinking this morning – as I was fiending for a latte – that just at the time that I really get into drinking coffee, I can’t have *first* dates at coffee houses.
However, TheDude used to work at Starbucks and *loves* coffee. So, he doesn’t mind stopping for coffee whenever I have a taste for that *caramel* crack.
Raqi...Working for The Man
April 23rd, 2010
10:16 am
Yeah Infamous places where we can actually hold a conversation and hear each talk. I like to go places with my husband where we can focus on each other and not be distracted by the myriad folks pouring in and out in droves. We can do what we got out of the house to do, enjoy our time together. Even dance by our table when there is no dance floor and the onlookers applaud in the end. LOL
We do go to the movies and bowling where there will always be crowds but that’s different.
We are that couple that doesn’t always have to be in the know and the show.
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:17 am
I’m a sucka for dark skin so he is cute to me ball head from Boston very nice and chatty……
lurker
April 23rd, 2010
10:17 am
Lady J – Girrrrl, you KNOW I wanted to go home. Once I was inside, I was sort of kind of okay. Still felt out of my zone. I think I pulled up around 11:30. I think he know that I wasn’t feeling that spot or him really.
Carlito
April 23rd, 2010
10:17 am
I really do not go out by myself, I have my own things I like to do for fun that do not involve mass public gatherings. I will do concerts and go to the High Museum, but there is a more of a focus in those venues, IMO I went out maybe twice by myself here and the other times were on a date, just to dance or have a good time and drink. Young people just think differently and there is nothing I can fathom to discuss with someone under the age of 28 in a club.
AmazonRed™
April 23rd, 2010
10:20 am
@ AmRed — I’ve heard of Johnny’s Hideaway. I always heard that was a spot for cougars, but I guess the old dudes are on the prowl there, too… Or maybe it’s old couples looking to swing with the young ‘uns….?
swiss – It is the cougar spot. A friend was celebrating her 40th birthday so we took her to get “cougarized”
You could be on to the swingers theory cuz there were some older couples there…
Raqi...Working for The Man
April 23rd, 2010
10:20 am
SexyCool, Starbucks is the worst. I like Caribou Coffee and some of the off road coffee places.
PrincessNik
April 23rd, 2010
10:21 am
Good Morning all,
I don’t like going anywhere the crowd will be under 25, aint nuthing i can do with a dude that young but screw him and since i’m past that stage of life, aint nadda i can do with him. I like the more mature “grown and sexy” crowd, however I’m not trying to hang out with the “drunk uncles” crowd either LOL.
LadyJ, so glad you shortened your moniker LOL
lurker
April 23rd, 2010
10:22 am
Raqi – I so get the grown and sexy phrase.
A few years back when I lived in Marietta, my roommate was a bartender/waitress at some hole in the wall. Back then I couldn’t appreciate “all those old folks” that being 35 – 45…lol Sometimes I’d pick her up when she needed a ride and would maybe hang out there for a couple of hours before she knocked off and thought uh uh. I get it now.
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:22 am
You know what.. My real spot is in the East Lake Village.. Its the East Side Lounge.. The music is nice.. A mixed crowd and I know the owner and his wife so its usually where I take my dates to hang out.. I forgot about the ESL.. Dang.. Thats really where I usually end up… Behind the bar pouring drinks at some point if Im really feeling Good that night.. Ive been going there for years my friends and I were the only people that would come in when he first opened..
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:23 am
http://www.eastsidelounge.net/
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:24 am
Rock – your last comment reminded me of what I wanted to say (because I had forgotten).
One of the issues that TheDude and I are working to manage right now is the balance between being a dating couple who both enjoy being out enjoying the company of friends from time to time and having individual time and activities, who both work full time, but at the same time carving out the time to focus on each other and relationship building.
I have so many friends that say that they want to be in a relationship but who are out on the scene so much that I wonder how they could possibly transition their lifestyles into building the foundations of a solid relationship.
I have one friend in particular who always knows the newest, hottest, most eclectic, cutest little spots to go to who is desperate for a man. But, when it comes down to focusing on one person, she can’t do it because she likes to be out in the streets too much. So, she ends up with all these little fragmented relationships with guys that won’t/can’t get serious about her.
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:25 am
PK I am a TEAMPLAYER!!!! a key quality so it was cool! LOL
AmazonRed™
April 23rd, 2010
10:25 am
Don’t do the club anymore unless someone is hosting a function or a mixer. SPACE Atlanta is a nice lil spot. The AKAs are having their regionals and will be there this weekend. Utopia hosts a lot of good stuff too.
I never venture too far out the city. No need for me to.
Melo
April 23rd, 2010
10:26 am
Im avoiding uall today like a plague.Untill the topic gets hijacked!
Good morning!
Each one of u that posted thus far is feeling themselves too much!
abc?? u palyed at 35000 strong venues and u still rocking with us broke folks??
Have a good day guys!
Luvbug
April 23rd, 2010
10:26 am
DK- LOL you’re right. Plus, I’m definitely not feeling the Nikki Minaj hype either. That’s that pushy marketing I’m talking about. She’s cute and all, but the voice…sound…rap…Nooooooo.
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:26 am
lol lurker
he is a financial advisor and explaining some stuff interesting but his approach threw me he is still up in my face but cool convo i guess….
Kym--Square Peg
April 23rd, 2010
10:27 am
I love festivals..I hate I missed Dogwood this year..and will miss Inman tomorrow. But I am gearing up for Jazz fest.. Me and the friends..pack a picnic..with all the yumms, grab blankets, chairs, portable table, candles and make a full day of it. I love it because I get to hear new artist..relax and enjoy the sunshine..(I have a killer hat for this year)!!!
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:28 am
Sorry East Atlanta Village..
PrincessNik
April 23rd, 2010
10:28 am
LuvBug
we are >>>>here<<<< on the Nikki Minaj, she aint sayin nothing, if you gonna do aimless rapping at least have a dope danceable beat IMO.
AmazonRed™
April 23rd, 2010
10:29 am
But, when it comes down to focusing on one person, she can’t do it because she likes to be out in the streets too much
I’m thinking outloud on this one, but I wonder how much is perception vs reality.
A guy I’ve flirted with for years recently married his baby mama. As he knocked back drink after drink he told me I need to settle my hot azz down and join the married club. I was a little taken aback because I’m really not out in the streets all that much. He didn’t know I’ve been seeing someone for months, I guess all he sees is that we run into each other at the same functions. Somehow he was able to cultivate a relationship enough to get married. I guess it’s just different when it’s a woman. I guess I should spend more time at home knitting….
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:29 am
H-Town “Knockin’ da Boots” is on the radio…..
“A late night I thought to back to when we made good love
Listening to some Marvin Gaye all night long”
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:30 am
And if Iwanna hear a great DJ play some great music not matter what the age limit or crowd… MJQ. on Ponce.. Dude kills it and its Hip Hop… And he tells you when you walk in the door.. If you wanna hear Soulja Boy and Bow Wow… This aint the spot.. Its usually so dark in there you cant tell whats what.. I just post up at the Bar or over in the seats and listen to the music..
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:31 am
LadyJ – how are you having a conversation with this dude and blogging at the same time? aren’t you being rude, young lady?
Kym--Square Peg
April 23rd, 2010
10:31 am
Now if I do have a moment of wild and crazy energy..I will and have gone to the Clermont Lounge.
PrincessNik
April 23rd, 2010
10:31 am
SexyC
now that brings back memories
picture it ga, 1994
LMBO
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:31 am
kym your 1027 is on it and DK East Altanta Rocks along with Glenwood Park area!!!!!!
Leggs
April 23rd, 2010
10:32 am
Good morning!
Ok, here’s my old mind thinking out loud. Because of my 15 yr old I am aware of Drake. What I didn’t get is his popularity (thanks for clearing that up a little WD. I’m mystified that he has such a huge following and hasn’t even released his first album. Listening to him on the radio I don’t think he “spits” as well as other rappers, but please take into account my ears are much older and I hear noise where others don’t.
With that being said, I like to party and hang with energetic people just no youngins!
@lurker ~ it may just be me, but I don’t get the hype of Atlantic Station in the day nor at night.
You guys continue blogging…I have an event I like to get your take on and will ask in a little. Have to do a little work.
PrincessNik
April 23rd, 2010
10:32 am
LadyJ – how are you having a conversation with this dude and blogging at the same time? aren’t you being rude, young lady?
Sexy C i swear i had the same thought LOL
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:32 am
sexycool we are just sitting here chatting I guess I am but hey I am doing both……lol
AmazonRed™
April 23rd, 2010
10:33 am
MJQ was not my type of crowd. I so fell asleep right up in that spot.
Lady J-Gone Baby Go, Don't be long-I can't wait to see what you DO!!!!
April 23rd, 2010
10:33 am
yall I am really not interested if that matters he just came out of no where I was in my personal space doing me…..lol I guess I need to be open huh
Professor
April 23rd, 2010
10:34 am
@Lady J he is trying to think of a way to get your number.
I’m a musician; musicians don’t like hip-hop. Hip hop is not that musical, there’s not that much you can musically do with it.
abc I am a musician as well and please don’t issue out a blanket statement saying musicians don’t like hip-hop, because that is not true.
I am a musician and I LOVE HIP-HOP
i'm swiss
April 23rd, 2010
10:35 am
@ Kym — Not the Claremont!
Now that place is good for people watching. You will see all kinds in there…
abc
April 23rd, 2010
10:35 am
Sure Melo, jazz festivals, arenas with the old Motown acts, stuff like that. By contrast played a private party last weekend with Francine Reed singing for a couple hundred people, she did just fine.
Actual musicians don’t make that much money, you’d probably be surprised at how little the headliners are paying the folks in their band. Singers are not, by definition, musicians; hip hop artists are not, by definition, even singers, much less musicians. But folks like it as a backdrop to tantric boogie and hookup scenes.
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:36 am
Kym – Its the Clermont after MJQ and the Majestic (Better than Waffle House) if Im feeling froggy.. Seriously after a night at MJQ.. A few vodka and Red Bulls have been had so Im up all night and the Clermont to see the ladies of the night is usually funny..
THE INFAMOUS DK AKA THE GOD OF WAR
April 23rd, 2010
10:37 am
ARED – I like the music.. It doesnt get jumping until about 1ish..
Dig That
April 23rd, 2010
10:38 am
Good Morning Erybody. TGIF
@Carlito- I think recently I have come to the same realization. It is even hard to have a real conversation with a youngin’. I used to manage clubs and I hate to even think about going to one. Not to mention since it was work, the last time I went to a club I was supposed to be having a good time but I found myself looking at what the bar and the door was making.
@lurker- Atlantic Station is very young these days.
Kym--Square Peg
April 23rd, 2010
10:38 am
@Swiss..I have lived here my whole life and never been until one of my friends..brought it up..that place is so surreal..It was like young meets old..meets very old..meets black..meets white..meets..everyone else..meets naked old strippers..to quote Barney..”It was Legendary!!!!”
Dig That
April 23rd, 2010
10:39 am
DK- Now that dayum Clermont is the comedy and drunk spot.
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:40 am
Professor – being able to play the flutophone does not make you a musician. (teasing)
Sorry – couldn’t resist. When I learned to play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” on my flutophone in the third grad, you couldn’t tell me *NOTHIN”*!!!
LOL!!!
AmazonRed™
April 23rd, 2010
10:41 am
ARED – I like the music.. It doesnt get jumping until about 1ish..
It’s a good spo, been around for a long time. Just not my type of spot.
SexyCool
April 23rd, 2010
10:42 am
As for places that don’t get jumping until around 1a – I have gotten over those kinds of places. By that time of night, I am trying to bring it in and get home and channel my creative energy into other activities.
Kym--Square Peg
April 23rd, 2010
10:42 am
@abc..well I appreciate musicans..I had a blast at Churchill Grounds..one jazzfest a few years back they had a late night jam session.
abc
April 23rd, 2010
10:43 am
SexyCool, we prefer to call them tonettes. Sounds like a 60’s vocal group, doesn’t it!