The Rundown: Things to Do Thursday, July 13 – Monday, July 16

By Shawn D. Allison, II

Family, we have arrived at another weekend! The QC is buzzing with all sorts of vigor and flavor and like you, I can’t wait to get out and experience it! If you really want to know where the real heat is coming from this weekend, check out my “Hot List” below!

 

  • THURSDAY-SUNDAY – The Gray Classic
  • THURSDAY – MARS Open Summer Kickball Practice at Veterans Park
  • FRIDAY – Guerilla Poets’ “Vibrations” at Charlotte Art League
  • FRIDAY – Nu Sound Summer Showcase at The Evening Muse
  • FRIDAY – Blanche J Live at The Morehead Tavern
  • FRIDAY – PLAYER MADE at Sung Harbor
  • SATURDAY – Jazz In July at Blue Blaze Brewing
  • SATURDAY – I Still Love the 90s Brunch & Day Party feat. DJ Justice at Sports One Bar & Lounge
  • SATURDAY – Kings Invade the Queen City Launch Party at Firehouse Bar & Lounge
  • SATURDAY — AfroPop Vol. 13 – The Flag Party at The Morehead Tavern
  • SUNDAY — Funk Balia: Pop-Up Shop, Artist Showcase & Brunch at The Morehead Tavern
  • SUNDAY – Soul Sunday at Snug Harbor
  • SUNDAY — Art Songs & Arias In Summer With Helen Goldsby at Davidson College Presbyterian Church
  • SUNDAY – Sundresses & Mimosas Sundays at ROC’s Jazz Bar

 

If you would like your event to be listed in “The Rundown” please send a detiled e-mail to me at: sdallison85@yahoo.com

 

——-THURSDAY 7/13——-

Pull out your golf clubs, linen suits and sundresses because it’s time for The Gray Classic golf tournament! Enjoy four days full of parties, networking events, business mixers, and lots of golf! All event info and ticket purchases can be found here: http://thegrayclassic.com/classic-events/.

HBO partners with Trap Karaoke on a tri-city to celebrate HBO’s hot summer comedies, BALLERS and INSECURE. Since its launch in 2015, TRAP Karaoke, a user-generated entertainment company putting guests at the center of the concert experience, continues to sell out venues across the country to audiences looking for a hip-hop/R&B interactive experience. During the event, Shane Manier of Guerilla Poets will create two live paintings that will be gifted to the Freedom School Partnership in Charlotte, along with a financial donation from HBO. Admission is FREE to attend. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event will be held at The Fillmore Charlotte. 820 Hamilton St.

The Spring season is over and it’s time to get things kickin’ for the Summer! Join MARS (Main Attraction Recreational Sports) this evening as they host an Open Kickball Practice! Here’s a great chance to try something new and exciting! Come meet experienced and novice players, team captains, league administrators, work on kickball drills, learn basic gameplay rules, exercise drills, network and play a pickup game or two! Practice starts at 6 p.m. at Veteran’s Park. 737 Elm St. in the Plaza-Midwood District.    #MARS  #Funletics

Calling all aspiring filmmakers—come out to The Light Factory for The Art of Directing Workshop. Hosted by Charlotte 48-Hour Film Project, this discussion with Chris Baker will show you how to realize your vision through the work and expertise of others. Whether its cast or crew, your final film project will depend on the connection you create with the people involved. This puts organization, communication and preparation front and center as you work through your project. Several 48 HFP directors will be in the room discussing their experience and advice in making the best 48 Hour Film. Admission is FREE and the workshop starts at 6:30 p.m. The Light Factory is located at 1817 Central Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District. 

For some true adult fun, head over to Petra’s this evening for “Potions & Pixels: Video Games, Board Games and Community.” There will be a wide variety of multiplayer games from all eras and for all skill levels. From Mario Kart, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Super Smash Bros., Love Letter, Click Clack Lumberjack and more! Admission is only $5. Bring as many friends as you desire and have a good time! The games begin at 7 p.m. Petra’s is located at 1919 Commonwealth Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.   #PotionsAndPixels

It’s time for Grown Folks Radio at Snug Harbor this evening! Come dance and boogie to the best Funk, Soul, Disco and R&B joints from many eras with DJ Stacey Blackman and Solid Gold Elon! Admission is FREE to attend and the party starts at 10 p.m. Snug Harbor is located at 1228 Gordon St. in the Plaza-Midwood District.

——-FRIDAY 7/14——-

Join the Guerilla Poets as they host their new monthly event “Vibrations” at Charlotte Art League this evening. This creative and interactive cool down is geared as a way to bridge the gap between at-risk youth while also securing them a future. There will also be an open mic segment as well. Admission is FREE to attend and the event will begin at 7 p.m. Charlotte Art League is located at 1517 Camden Rd. in Historic South End.   #GuerillaPoets

Don’t let the stresses of life, work or relationships keep you down! Mark Gregory, one of the hottest stand-up comedians in America, will have you rolling in the aisles. He’ll be in rare form at the Victory Christian Center Dome as he presents his standup routine, “Good Like Medicine Comedy Hour!” Mark has quickly become one of the rising stars of comedy. His unique ability to perform for comedy clubs, churches and corporations makes him one of the most sought-after acts around. The nephew of comedic legend Dick Gregory, he has carved out his own niche appearing on various television programs. While you laugh and have a good time, this event won’t cost you a dime—FREE admission! Be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/good-like-a-medicine-comedy-hour-with-stand-up-comedian-mark-gregory-tickets-35216197595. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30. Victory Christian Center Dome is located at 7228 Kings Ridge Dr.

Create Amazing, LLC invites you out to Fidelli Kitchen to celebrate the one year anniversary of “Paint & Play!” Come enjoy an evening of live music, painters, spoken word, complimentary massages, wine, fresh Italian food, photographers and much more! Admission is FREE and be sure to dress to impress. The event begins at 7 p.m. Fidelli Kitchen is located at 1616 Camden Rd. in Historic South End.   #CreateAmazing

Head down to ROC’s Jazz Bar as Ebb N’ Flow Aficionados proudly presents their “Inspire the Fire Fundraising Event.” This event is to raise funds to sponsor kids for the Inspire The Fire Experience which is a week-long Summer camp. The night includes live music and performances by Volume 4, Sertha Lichez, Everyday Heroes, Lejeune Thompson, Dennis Reed and GAP. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the admission is FREE but please don’t hesitate to leave a donation. ROC’s Jazz Bar is located at 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.

No backyard BBQ is complete without cocktails! If you’re looking for something other than just beer these fantastic cocktails are best suited for summer weekends out in the backyard. This evening, join the good people of Liberate Your Palate CLT as they host “Shake, Stir, Sip & Socialize Cocktail Class: Backyard BBQ Cocktails.” With the fine fermented wisdom of Emily Elda aka “The Crazy bar Lady” you’ll learn how to make a batched style communal cocktail so you’re not the one stuck making everyone’s drink at the party, a “Smoked Whiskey Sour” that’s perfect for our hot summer nights and a “NC-rita” with a spirit twist you won’t be expecting. Admission is $65 and will include 3 full-sized cocktails, individual bar stations and take home recipes. Tickets can be purchased here: http://www.liberateyourpalate.com/passbook?category=COCKTAIL%20CLASS. The session starts at 7:30 p.m. and will be held at Hygge Coworking. 1776 Statesville Ave.   #LiberateYourPalateCLT

I need everyone to come out to The Evening Muse for another round of the Nu Sound Summer Showcase! This is a great chance to hear, feel and experience all the brilliant local music talent brewing right here in the QC! Acts include Blu House, Railz the Principle, Black Linen, Heather Himes and more! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nu-sound-summer-showcase-tickets-35614350481. The first act takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. The Evening Muse is located at 3227 N. Davidson St. in the NoDa District.

 

One of the QC’s baddest, boldest and most beautiful voices is about to bust out with some musical delight this evening at The Morehead Tavern—get ready to experience the rousing and soulful energy of the one and only Blanche J! She’s definitely no stranger to the stage and her timeless vocal flavors will give you and sense of euphoria as she takes you on a journey into the depths of Soul, Jazz and R&B grooves. Also, be sure to stick around as DJ Double A rocks out on the 1s and 2s. Tickets can be purchased here: https://tempocharlotte.primetix.com/Tickets/?perfid=1005. Showtime is at 8 p.m. The Morehead Tavern is located at 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.

The Hit Agency and The SoulJunkies have combined forces to bring you another round of House Music Unity this evening! It’s Friday and it’s time to let the troubles of the work week disappear. Come and get busy with DJ Jazzy Bee and Gary “Jackmaster” Wallace spinning all your favorite House, Deep House and Downtempo classics. Admission is FREE before 10 p.m. and the party starts at 9 p.m. at Mooney’s Lounge. 2525 N. Graham St. in Uptown.

Calling all playas, ballers, shot callers and the like! Hop in your ‘Lacs, Bourbons, Duece and a 1/4s, Caprice Classics and head down to Snug Harbor for “PLAYER MADE!” Join DJs Overcash and Elevator Jay along with Jaboi B Rab and A-Huf as they take you on a funky ride through all eras of Southern Hip Hop. From OutKast, Goodie Mob, UGK, Master P, Nappy Roots, Little Brother, 8Ball & MJG, Trick Daddy, 2 Live Crew, Three 6 Mafia and more! Also, be sure to tune in as local MCs Black Linen and Nige Hood perform their new, crowd-rousing hit, “Hey DJ!” The doors open at 9 p.m. and the funk starts at 10 p.m. Admission is FREE for people 21+ and $5 for people 18+. Snug Harbor is located at 1228 Gordon St. in the Plaza-Midwood District.

——-SATURDAY 7/15——-

Need a jolt of energy to throw you back in a good mood? Slide out to The Morehead Tavern as they invite you out for their “Summer Blast Series: Best of the 80s!” Come relive a time when Hip Hop was coming to it’s own, the fashion and slang was dope and everyone was just the epitome of fly! Your sound pilot is none other than DJ Freedom aka “Mr. Energy” giving you a hot mix of the 80s! Also, be sure to grab some delicious drink and meal specials from the bar and kitchen. Admission is FREE and the party starts at 1 p.m. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.

This afternoon, slide out to Blue Blaze Brewing and come celebrate Jazz In July. Food and music always brings out the best in people and today be prepared to enjoy the smooth grooves of the Brass Connection Band on the patio. For your hunger satisfaction, the delicious and Cajun-inspired Jazzy Mike’s Food Truck will be out there cooking all sorts of delectable delights to order. There will also be a small pop-up market featuring local vendors with a wide variety of goods, trinkets and treats. Admission is FREE and the event begins at 2 p.m. Blue Blaze Brewing is located at 528 S. Turner Ave. in the Seversville Community.

If you want to start your Saturday off on the good foot, head over to Sports One Bar & Lounge as Moxie Society hosts another dope edition of the “I Still Love the 90s Brunch & Day Party!” The menu is full of fresh and flavorful choices, the people are fly and get ready to hear the funk from Charlotte’s own DJ Justice fixing you with a fantastic arsenal of grooves for you to enjoy! Also, be sure to scope out my friend Christopher Clarke showcasing his brilliant and vibrant skills on the canvas. Admission is FREE to attend and the get down starts at 11 a.m. Sports One is located at 521 N. College St. in Uptown.   #MoxieSociety

Brothers and sisters, join A Pinch of Sol at Advent Coworking for the “A Seat at the Brunch Table” social. Come experience a brunch like no other! Munch on Southern and Cajun-flavored cuisine, sip on bubbly brunch cocktails, vibe to some cool music and browse products from some local vendors and sponsors. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-pinch-of-sols-a-seat-at-the-brunch-table-tickets-34178551969. The event begins at 12 noon. Advent Coworking is located at 933 Louise Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.

Do you have dreadlocks, want to learn how to maintain them, or thinking about growing some? This is the class for you. Join Prosocialites at Tisun Beauty Supply as they host “Love Your Locs” this afternoon. Award Winning loctitian Shanae Levine walks you through a live tutorial on how to maintain your locks. Filled with lots of networking, goodies, gift cards and more, you’ll be sure to feel confident as you continue on your loc journey! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/love-your-locs-tickets-34806808100. The event begins at 2 p.m. Tisun Beauty Supply is located at 9011 S. Tryon St.   #Prosocialites

OutenLove Events is back once again to put some spice in your Saturday! Join them along with Royal Oils Grooming Co. at Firehouse Bar & Lounge as they proudly present the “Kings Invade the Queen City Launch Party!” For all my bearded brethren and the ladies that admire them come feel the vibe with free giveaways, live product demonstrations, networking and a dope soundtrack provided by DJ Tramare. Royal Oils products are handcrafted with a unique blend of essential oils and butters that leave your skin and hair clean, moisturized, and healthy. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kings-invade-the-queen-city-launch-party-tickets-35614237142. The event begins at 3 p.m. Firehouse Bar & Lounge is located at 320 W. Carson Blvd. in Uptown.

Ladies, are you looking for a place that will sell you quality hair extensions with quality care and customer service? Look no further—the wait is over. Head over to the grand opening of Material Girl Hair Boutique! Enjoy some networking, meet and mingle with new people, witness the ribbon cutting ceremony and be sure shop from a fresh stock of hair and supplies. Admission is FREE and the event begins at 5 p.m. Material Girl Hair Boutique is located at 5015 N. Tryon St.

One of Hip Hop’s biggest figures is in town for a one-night-only show! Everyone head down to The Underground @ The Fillmore and get ready for the legendary Raekwon hitting the stage! The Chef has cooked up some of this greatest classics known to man and now he’s back on tour with his newest culinary creation “The Wild.” Tickets can be purchased here: https://concerts1.livenation.com. Doors open at 8 p.m. The Underground is located at 900 NC Music Factory Blvd.

The spirit of the Motherland is back one mo’ gin’ at The Morehead Tavern as The Bantu Fête Team proudly presents “AfroPop Vol. 13 – The Flag Party!” Come represent your ancestry and nationality on the dance floor as my good brothers The Dynamic DJ Kato and DJ Steel Wheel bust out with Afrobeat, AfroHouse, Soca, DanceHall, Afro-Trap, and so much more! If you get there early, you’ll have a chance to partake in a special dance lesson provided by Kizomba Charlotte. There will be a slew of local vendors in the joint as well with lots of goodies to choose from. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afropop-charlotte-vol13-the-flag-party-tickets-35860949064. The party starts at 9 p.m. The Morehead Tavern is located at 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.   #AfricanaConnections #WelcomeToTheTribe

——-SUNDAY 7/16——-

This morning at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, come out for the Civics 101—A Roadmap to Voter Empowerment course. For today’s session, join hosts Judge Yvonne Mims Evans and Reverend Maurice Jones discussing The 13th Amendment, Black Codes, Reconstruction, The Rise of Political Power and Separate but Equal clauses. There will be two classes today at 11:45 p.m. in room #359 and at 3:30 p.m. in the Conference Center. Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is located at 3400 Beatties Ford Rd.

This afternoon, come out to The Morehead Tavern for “Funk Balia: Pop-Up Shop, Artist Showcase & Brunch.” Presented by PowerInOne Clothing, this afternoon cultural cool-down will feature local performing artists, fashion designers, and visual artists. This event is co-sponsored by The Good News Network, Dupp & Swat, The PLATE Agency, The I Can, We Will Nonprofit Agency and Say What Now? Podcast.   Also, be sure to bring toiletry donations and new/lightly used book bags for our Men’s Bag Project—the items will be donated to local men’s shelters in the area. Admission is FREE to attend but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.active.com/charlotte-nc/music/funk-balia-brunch-fashion-art-and-music-2017. The event begins at 12 noon. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.

Musa Moon, LLC invites you out to their Healing Herbal Oils Workshop this afternoon. In this D.I.Y. Herbal-Infused Oil class, you will learn and discuss the healing properties of herbs while extracting the medicinal properties with oil. Once infused, the herbal oil can be used topically for things like skin rashes, bites, wounds, bruises and sore muscles or joints. This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to create topical herbal remedies, skin, hair, and beauty products. All supplies will be provided. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diy-herbal-infused-oil-tickets-35751858772. The workshop begins at 12 noon. 2424 N. Davidson St., Suite #110-F in the NoDa District.

Get your creative shop on this afternoon at Charlotte Art League and come out to the Starving Artist Market. Need some cool and crafty ideas for your home to blend in the Spring atmosphere? This is the place for you! Over 30 local artists and vendors that will be pulling out all the stops to give you a five-hour, one-stop shopping experience. Skip the lines and come view this very talented group of local artisans. There will be pet supplies, pottery, soaps, jewelry, paintings, prints, fiber arts, wood workings, gemstones, candles, glass art, crystals and more! Admission is FREE to enter and the market opens at 12 noon. Charlotte Art League is located at 1517 Camden Rd. in Historic South End.

Do you need to ease and rejuvenate your soul from all as these dividing and trying times sit thick in the air? If so, come out to Snug Harbor this afternoon for their third Sunday jam session entitled, “Soul Sundays.” Enjoy a potluck dance party to celebrate all things soul-filled with edible refreshments and DJs Sir Chocolate Milk & Elon supply only the funkiest groove thangs to help your soul shine while that booty moves! Also, Diggers Delight will be on deck with a few crates of delicious vinyl for your ears’ pleasure! Donations will be taken at the door and please bring in a soul food dish to share with the community. The party starts at 2 p.m. Snug Harbor is located at 1228 Gordon St. in the Plaza-Midwood District.

Put some pep in your step and head down to the Levine Museum of the New South for “Conexiones: Exchanges Across Cultures with Dance.” Instructors from Rumbao Latin Dance Company will perform and offer entry-level dance instructions for three dances including the Salsa, Bachata, and Cha-Cha. The afternoon is interactive, cross-cultural, and fun. Be sure to bring your friends! This event is free with museum admission. Please be sure to RSVP here: https://38686.blackbaudhosting.com/38686/Conexiones-Exchanges-Across-Cultures-with-Art-or-Dance. The event begins at 2:30 p.m. The museum is located at 200 E. 7th St. in Uptown.

Treat your ears to a musical delight this afternoon and head out to Davidson College Presbyterian Church for “Art Songs & Arias In Summer with Helen Goldsby.” Helen is a Julliard and Howard, classically trained soprano vocalist who has performed on several and various stages throughout her accomplished career. Today, this brunneous beauty will perform featured music by French composers Gabriel Faure, Francis Poulenc, Austrian composer Wolfgang Mozart and more. She will be accompanied by long-time collaborator, pianist David Gilliland. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-songs-arias-in-summer-with-helen-goldsby-tickets-34840747614. The event will begin promptly at 3 p.m. Davidson College Presbyterian Church is located at 100 North Main Street in Davidson.

Slide out to ROC’s Jazz Bar for their Sundresses & Mimosas Sundays! Cool out after morning service with a menu of delicious, Southern-inspired eats, delectable live jazz treats and a collection of cocktails to add comfort as you cool out in your seat!  Your afternoon melodies will be provided by one of the QC’s baddest hornblowers, trombonist Buff Dillard featuring “The Groove Doctor.” The event will be hosted by Old School 105.3’s very own, the lovely Ms. Olympia D.! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sundresses-mimosa-sundays-live-jazz-performance-from-buff-dillard-tickets-36107967904 and the event begins at 4 p.m. ROC’s Jazz Bar is located at 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.

Whether it’s your time to walk down the aisle or not, come out to The Gantt Center and experience The Muna Love Affair! The Muna Love Affair is a multi-city experiential wedding show produced by Munaluchi Bride, the #1 multi-cultural magazine and online marketplace. Since being launched in 2012, The Muna Love Affair is the newly launched curated wedding experience providing even more inspiration, a fashion show and fun experiences for all guests. You’ll get to enjoy a beauty pop-up shop, couture fashion show, free giveaways, vendors, live entertainment and much more! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.universe.com/events/the-muna-love-affair-charlotte-tickets-charlotte-GBJD6V. The event begins at 5 p.m. The Gantt Center is located at 551 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.

You thought there would be no House music on Sunday? You thought wrong! All my fellow House heads come out to Three Spirits Brewery for the Grown People House & Old School Day Party! The Charlotte House Movement is ready to cap off your weekend with a lineup of throwback tunes from yesteryear and Tailored Smoke will be in the house with some premium stogies to enjoy. Admission is $5 and the event begins at 7 p.m. Three Spirits Brewery is located at 5046 Old Pineville Rd.

COMING SOON…

7/20 – Girls Trip Movie & Dinner Night Social

7/22 – Su Casa – The July Edition

7/28 – 7/30 – QC Summerfest 2017

8/1 – BYOV (Bring Your Own Vinyl)

8/13 – Back To School Funk Shun

 

Everyone have fun, be safe, spread love and keep the peace in the streets!

 

Live. Laugh. Love. Learn. Listen. Give.

 

#WeekendWarrior   #TheBlackFerrisBueller   #CommunityFirst