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The Artistry of Jonathan Harris

5/11/2023

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My first impression of this painting was "What is going on with the artistry of Jonathan Harris? First, let me say, I had never heard of Jonathan Harris! That made me more curious as to why he would create such a work of art. Historically, many artists address currents events and social issues in their art. Harris is one of them. Incidentally, the painting is called "Critical Race Theory." Now. . . the image begins to make sense.

Who is Jonathan Harris?

Before delving into a discussion of Harris's "Critical Race Theory" work of art, it may be of interest to find out what makes this guy tick! Jonathan was born and raised in Detroit...went to Detroit schools and "lived" Detroit history. As a child, he learned the artistic flavor of Detroit, both culturally and visually. The Detroit Institute of Arts has one of the largest art collections in the United States. While celebrating artists worldwide, it does not forget its largely minority population and responds esthetically.

Jonathan Harris attended the Detroit School of Performing Arts, Henry Ford Community College and Oakland University. He majored in graphic design. As an artist, he brings awareness to America's cultural differences and social inequities. One of today's hottest social issues is "critical race theory." Let's look at why Harris responded to it with his art.

Critical Race Theory

The "critical race theory" is a hot topic in 2023 America. It means different things to different people. Research reveals two (2) broad meanings. People of color: A belief that the American government (local, state and national) has historically and consistently used political, social, economic, educational and financial means to deprive people of color from achieving equal development and growth as white people. Conservative Whites: A belief that the concept above lacks merit, pits one group against another, perpetuates low self-esteem among whites and is the foundation of reverse discrimination against whites.
This article only seeks to understand Artist Jonathan Harris's painting "Critical Race Theory."

The Painting

Critical Race Theory Painting: As I stared at the white man about to cover the faces of three (3) African Americans who forcefully and positively impacted the civil rights of Blacks in America, several thoughts emerged: Does this painting represent white America "white washing" a truth both Blacks and Whites know is untrue? Is America still holding people of color hostage and trying to hide it? Are large segments of white America trying to "turn back the clock" and dominate all aspects of life with white supremacy? Why do most whites continue to believe they are superior to other groups in America, built the country "all by themselves," and should have power and control over everyone else? Does this painting represent lies, deception and ingrain racism America has and still practices? Is this the America Harris has lived and is revealing it by displaying the artistry of Jonathan Harris?
Based on those questions, look within yourself and honestly judge what you find.

The Artistry of Jonathan Harris

In writing this article, the writer studied several paintings by Harris. Clearly, his mission is to place in front of the eyes of the world what he views as America's inequities, racial injustice, mental and physical enslavement of Blacks. His work is anti-racist and he offers no apologies. "Critical Race Theory" opened his art up to the world and his paintings make him a national and international contributor to the art world. "Hats-off" to the "Artistry of Jonathan Harris!"

Footnote: As an abstract art collector, I would love to hang one of his paintings in my living room but . . . I am sure I cannot afford one.

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The Beats of a Drummer

4/3/2023

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The beats of a drummer provide the framework of a band. Some people liken them to the spine of a book or the foundation of a house. This makes a drummer a significant segment of a band. In essence, he causes the "beat to go on." This writer is not speaking of any drummer, but Detroit's own Drummer Ron Otis. Who is this guy? What makes him tick? More importantly, what makes his drum "roll?" Hang around and find out.

At age five, drum sticks were placed in the hands of Ron. Five years later, he was playing in his church, and within six years, he was entertaining audiences in clubs. What an extraordinary journey! Why am I telling his story? He can tell it better!

Ron grew up in Detroit, went to Osborn High School on the east side of Woodward, a street that runs north and south, basically cutting the city in half. Today, Detroit is over 77% African American with music dominating its artistic culture.

The drum has always played an important role in American music because it was a key instrument in African American music. Where would music rate in the world without the contributions of black Americans? There would be no jazz, smooth jazz, spirituals, blues, rock n' roll, hip-hop, rap . . . the list is long.
Historically, Africans used drums to communicate messages in faraway places. They have been referred to as "talking drums." Ron makes his drums "talk."

Establishing a Drum Voice

As I "flipped" from one website to another, soaking up as much information as possible on Drummer Ron Otis, I was fascinated to hear him speak (as you heard in the video above) about his establishing a voice as a drummer. I smiled at first . . . thinking whoever heard of a drummer having a distinct voice, aren't they in the band to "keep the beat?" However, as I listened, the smile faded into interest.

Ron talked about the necessity of establishing his voice as a drummer so that it would set him apart from other drummers. He mentioned that if he were going to sound like 100 other drummers, what would motivate someone to choose him for gigs instead of another drummer? Great question! I was about to learn the answer.

Research reveals there are drummers who have established their identity--drummers like Art Blakely, Buddy rich, Brian Blade, Terri Lyne Carrington or Roy Haynes. Therefore, when heard on a record or CD, they are recognizable because they have a distinct style of making those beats roll "off the drum.." Here's a Ron solo with a band.

Ron Discography
Check out Ron's Spotify Page to hear his latest recordings:
Stay in Your Lane - Take Time - Peace - Low Beat - Up Front

Ron Otis is an exceptional artist! I was mesmerized by his graceful movements as he traveled from one drum to another! My eyes were focused on him. . . other artists on the stage were background. My ears enjoyed a "symphony of beats," each having a movement of its own. Lastly, was the demeanor of the man. . . there is a detectable humility that transforms his astounding ability! It's as though he doesn't know "how good he is." Then . . . maybe that is what "greatness" looks like!
The most disappointing thing about writing this article is, I have not seen Ron in a "live" concert. That is a date I would love to see on my calendar. As exciting, energetic and "rhythmically melodic" as Ron is via video, I know seeing him "live" would make me join the crowd in screaming for more!
RON OTIS: THE ASTOUNDING BEATS of a DRUMMER!

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Duane Parham: Radio Invasion

2/5/2023

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Listen to "My Turn" by Duane Parham on Radio Invasion!

Get the Radio Invasion App to Hear More. . . Click on the Links Below:

Android Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.p3ce88bdae0e.www

Apple Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/radio-invasion-fm/id763186200?mt=8

Check Out the Video B4 You Listen!

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Justin Bieber, Teenage Superstar

1/13/2023

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Justin Bieber, Teenage Superstar was the correct "handle" for Bieber at the tender age of 16. Why? Because by that time, he had released "Baby," the best-selling single in the United States of all times. And... had made the top ten list of Forbes Magazine as "one of the most powerful celebrities" worldwide. Additionally, Bieber's songs had charted the Billboard Hot 100 with single digits in the United States and Canada and numbered ten (10) internationally. Young Bieber was smashing records of released music everywhere!

Youtube Discovery

Like several artists, Justin was discovered on Youtube from videos uploaded by his mother as she strove to reveal her "shining star." At an early age, Young Bieber had learned to play the piano, drums, guitar and trumpet; won local talent shows, revealed he was a talented singer, and Mom knew the videos would introduce him to the world. One of those videos included the singing of
Ne-yo's song "So Sick.." Scotter Brown, while looking for new talent, saw the video and contacted his mom. After much soul-searching, Mom gave "blessings" for his travel to Atlanta, and within a week, thirteen-year-old Bieber was making demo tapes and singing with Usher.

Who Was Justin Bieber?

**Justin, born in Ontario, Canada, was reared** in humble surroundings by a single mom. Mom's name is Pattie Mallette and Dad's name is Jack Bieber. He has two half-brothers: Jazmyn and Jaxon and a half-sister named Bay. Jeanne Sauve Catholic School provided an elementary education and St. Michael Secondary School issued his high school diploma. It is reported he graduated with a 4.0 honor point average.
Initially, Justin was assigned to Raymond Braun Media Group, a joint venture between Braun and Usher. Later, he signed with Island Records, which released his first single called "One Time." Young Justin's "leap" into super stardom was fast, yet secure. The road did not have customary rocks, curves and boulders.

Success is the Word

Success became a habit for Bieber. Failure never entered his door. He scored one hit single and album after another. With the face of a Prince and the heart of a child, young Bieber was destined to find success as an actor. In 2011, his "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never" movie grossed $12.4 million opening day and 30. 3 million by the weekend.

Guest appearances included shows like: The View, Late Night Show with David Letterman, Nighttime, Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and many more.

Life and Justin Bieber: Teenage Superstar

Worldwide, Justin and law enforcement have had several clashes. In 2012, he was accused of reckless driving; he was charged with vandalism in Brazil in 2013; and was arrested in 2014 on suspicion of drunk driving in America.
The drunk driving fiasco prompted 270,000 Americans to sign a petition requesting his deportation. That petition went nowhere. Apparently, drunk driving is not a basis for deportation in this country.

Additional Information:
Justin:

Owns a $25.8 Million House in Beverly Hills, CA.
Describes Himself as a Christian Who Communicates with God.
Received the 2010 MTV Award for Best New Artist.
Received the 2013 Milestone Award.
Received the 2021 MTV Award for Artist of the Year.

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Duane Parham on Apple Music

10/17/2022

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What is Apple Music?

**With all of the Spotify "mental clogging," much of world has lost sight of Apple Music. It is a** music, audio and video streaming service developed by Apple in 2015. Wow! That was seven (7) years ago and in the information world that we live in, that could be construed as old. But most Apple users know that Apple does not let any "grass grow under its feet." That streaming service includes three (3) internet radio stations that broadcast in over 200 countries 24/7. So, my dear readers, Apple is not old.

How Does Duane Parham Fit into Apple?

Duane Parham is an "Apple Man!" He lives and breathes Apple, but compared with all of the hoopla with Spotify, he needed a miracle to get his Apple site moving. And . . . that is what he did with this song: "I Need a Miracle."

Click on the "Sneak Preview" on Apple:
‎I Need a Miracle by Duane Parham on Apple Music

As the listener takes in the "cool" saxophone of Duane Parham, the masterful accents of rhythm instruments and the weaving in and out of the main melody, one can say Parham got his miracle.

An Earlier Version of "I Need a Miracle"

A younger Parham made an earlier version of "I Need a Miracle."

Here's the link:
(1) Duane Parham - I Need A Miracle - YouTube

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Fear of Being Alone

8/6/2022

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Have you ever had this feeling? That you are alone in this world? A feeling that no one cares . . .

Fear of being alone makes people do things they would not ordinarily do. Once the fear subsides, they wonder how they could have done such a thing!

What is fear? Why does it have such a powerful hold on us? It clouds the mind, forces action and erodes the moral compass. Fear has many definitions, but for our purposes, this one seems to be the most logical.

"Fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat" (Paul Ekman Group). And . . . most humans do not like pain or things that threaten their existence or goals.

What Drives Fear?

Fear is driven by uncertainty . . . the unknown and thoughts that generate the worst of human conditions. There is a fear of being unloved. Thus, the person may try to hold on to a relationship by threats, physical abuse or even death. Another person may fear poverty. So, he robs, steals or engages in unscrupulous business practices. Greed is often a product of poverty fear. Then . . . there is the fear of being alone.

There are many reasons why a person fears being alone. It could stem from loss of a parent during childhood, abandonment or simply not having had the experience of being alone. I knew a person who grew up in a large family, entered college and had roommates, married and had children. Even if circumstances occurred where she may have been separated from her husband, she never lived alone. The children were always with her. However, her children grew up, left the nest and only two (2) people were in the household: she and her husband. Many years later, the husband passed away . . . and she was in a big house. . .alone. Nights sometimes terrified her! Every sound became her enemy. How did she overcome?

Healing Fear of Being Alone

Facing fear is the key to overcoming it. How does one do that? There are those who say, "Ask yourself why you are afraid." Find something that convinces you that you are never alone. Typical solutions are: medication, psychotherapy, deep breathing, yoga, muscle relaxation and visualization. Each person must be guided by his own wisdom and understanding. However, this writer believes true healing is not physical, but metaphysical. Experience has proven that conquering fear does not occur in a moment, but a combination of moments . . .sometimes day...sometimes years. A good place to start is connecting with a source outside the human realm of thought.

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness (Isaiah 41:10)."

Don't shrug this off . . .these are words of comfort and spoken or thought with deep sincerity can ease the fear. Insert the word "you" for thee/thou and try it. Gain an understanding of each phrase. It may take several readings and contemplation.

Fear causes an inner disturbance only thought can correct. You can't massage it or wrap a bandage around it. It is deep inside. You need something "deep" to reach it. There is nothing deeper than spirituality. Let me warn you! You can't half-step. You have to believe in what you are doing. Your results will follow your beliefs. There are many biblical verses on peace, joy, comfort and love. Do you know that "love" is the opposite of "fear?" Feeling loved by something or someone, is very comforting.

Disturbance of human nature is only corrected by divine nature. This verse allows you to feel the presence of a Power greater than yourself . . .greater than your fear. God becomes your companion. Therefore, you do not feel alone. Well . . . that is the message. Take it or leave it!

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Exploring "Your Precious Love" with Duane Parham

6/28/2022

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Have You Asked the Question?

"How precious is the love of the person I hold dear?" We ask you: "Are you taking her/him for granted?" If you are . . . one day that person may not be there for you. Duane Parham obviously thought about what it means to have a "precious love" for him to "cover" the Marvin Gaye/Tammy Terrell version of "Your Precious Love" and . . . make into a video. Presently, it has over 10,000 views on Youtube.

What It Means to Be Precious

As I reflected on the word "precious" in terms of a person, words like: "priceless, treasure, dear, invaluable" and "beloved" came to mind. Taking a step further, it means someone you can count on during the highs as well as the lows . . . someone who always has your back. It would be wise to not abuse that relationship in any way. Watch and listen for a few seconds. . .

Duane Parham Unmasked

Let's talk about Duane Parham. Who is he? Duane is the father of three (3) adult female children. Each has carved out a successful path for herself. After two (2) divorces, his saxophone has become a constant companion. Parham would be lost without it. This is not to say he does not have a special "female companion somewhere."

Most of Duane's musical career has been in service to others. Yea . . . he has CDs and albums, but countless families have and continue to look to his musical performances at their weddings, funerals, birthday celebrations and parties. Further, he and his band have traveled across America and played in clubs and festivals for many years. This is an enjoyment he continues to enjoy.

The Educator and Provider

Numerous children have felt the "breath of his horn" as he guided them through not only the "sharps and flats" of music but also the "highways and byways" of life. His 501 c 3 nonprofit, Educational Arts Society places FREE instruments in the hands of children. Your contribution is greatly appreciated. Click here.

If you are motivated how he did all of that, read or get a FREE audio of his book, "Can You Hear Me Now?" Click that link . . . it will get you there!

Duane: Your Precious Love

Duane has many "precious loves!" This article shared some of them. His latest CD Single "Your Precious Love" simply magnifies what they mean to him.

What does the future hold for Parham? His company, Saxville Avenue, is about to release a new album with such Motown greats as "The Four Tops," "The Contours" and the latest singing sensation, Tammy (Trele) Davis. Sitting "on his hands" is not a trait of Saxophonist Duane Parham. So . . . stay tuned!

Duane Parham: The Man with the Horn

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KENDRICK LAMAR: WHO IS HE?

6/10/2022

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KENDRICK LAMAR: Let's get it out of the way right now . . . this writer had no idea who he was prior to this article. Brainstorming led her to research the top ten rappers. Guess what? Lamar headed the list! I am sure you knew that . . . o' well. Before we embark on what research revealed about Lamar, if you live in the Detroit area, you may want to know when and where you can see him. . .

Concert Tickets for Kendrick Lamar

Little Caesars Arena

The place is Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. The date is August 14, 2022 at 7:30 PM. Get your tickets here.
Prices range from 101.00 to 944.00. Are you going?

Five Things to Know About Lamar

He Was Born in Compton, CA in 1987
His Full Name is Kendrick Lamar Duckworth
His Net Worth is 75 Million
His Fiancée is Whitney Ashford
He Began Dating Ms. Ashford in High School

Answering - "Kendrick Lamar: Who is He?"

Kendrick Lamar is a songwriter and rapper who broke into the American spotlight in 2010 with "Mixtape O(verly D(edicated.." He is not only one of the highest paid rappers, he is one of the most popular. "Mixtape" follows much of the language and social issues many rappers expressed at that time . . . not main street appreciation. It sold 12,000 copies a year later.

What did Lamar learn from the Mixtape release? One can say, he learned that in order to reach a wider audience, he had to make some changes. So, in 2013, a more mainstream album called "good, m.A.A.d City" was released. Some declare it to be a classic. From my perspective, the lyrics describe an angry young man seeking to find not only himself, but a pathway in life that he (himself) can live and respect. Music can be a means of working through mental confusion. The song may or may not have been a "life lesson" for Lamar, but it certainly was a "listen my friends and you will hear" advice for his male counterparts.

Career Highlights

Some of Kendrick's song hits are: The Heart Pt. 2, Keisha's Song, The Recipe, Hood Politics, P&P, R.O.T.C. and She Needs Me. A list of his awards and successes include:

10 Grammy Awards
A Pulitzer Prize Album
He Ranked #9 on Billboard's 10 Best Rappers of All Time List
He has been called one of the most influential rappers of his generation.

Now You Can Answer: Kendrick Lamar: Who is He?

Chuck Arnold refers to Lamar as "the truth-telling voice and consciousness of hip-hop." My experience in the rap world is limited. Therefore, I cannot dispute that analysis. What I can say is, researching this man has been an informative and exciting journey! He is inspirational, intuitive and "tuned-in" to America's (problem) cultural issues. We need all three.

Finally, after a 5-year hiatus, Lamar burst on the scene in May 2022 with the album "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers." If it follows the history of Lamar's music, it will be a success. However, as a biblical reader and writer, the album cover gives me pause. . .. So, I ask, "Is the crowned head of Lamar symbolizing the suffering of Jesus Christ?" And . . . is the woman holding the baby trying to relive what it means to hold "the baby in a manger?"

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ADVERTISE: WE CONNECT - YOU DIRECT

3/6/2022

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We will connect you with:

Monthly Listeners
Interviews with DJs
A Variety of Genres
Inspirational Stories

Contact
248 599 - 2827

Email
admin@easzmusic.org

YOUR BUSINESS - LET THE WORLD KNOW ABOUT IT

Maybe you have a restaurant. Give listeners a quick rundown of your menu. Don't forget the week's specialty!

YOUR NONPROFIT

There is nothing like having a nonprofit that beautifies the landscape. Shout it out!

SHARE BOOKING DATES WITH YOUR FANS

Joey Vee and his band surround Duane Parham in the studio as they worked on his song "Detroit City is Comin Back."

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HOLLYWOOD COMES TO DETROIT

10/8/2021

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HOLLYWOOD IS HERE NOW!
Get Your Ticket !

"Hollywood Comes to Detroit" is an opportunity for the populace of the Detroit Metropolitan Area to "try out" for various jobs as singers, actors, models or "extras" for a video that will introduce the upcoming album of world-renowned Saxophonist Duane Parham entitled "Sugar Melts." So . . . get on board and "make it happen!"

Watch “Motown Golden Awards Promo 1.mp4” on
#Vimeo https://vimeo.com/623961627?ref=tw-share

Hollywood Comes to Motown

Get on Board . . . Before the Sugar Melts

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<<Previous

​ Life in Words & PicturesWe Are What We Believe . . .

Motown: The City of Music & Cars!

Who is Jonathan Harris?

Critical Race Theory​

The Painting

The Artistry of Jonathan Harris

Establishing a Drum Voice​

Ron Discography Check out Ron's Spotify Page to hear his latest recordings:Stay in Your Lane - Take Time - Peace - Low Beat - Up Front

Listen to "My Turn" by Duane Parham on Radio Invasion!

Get the Radio Invasion App to Hear More. . . Click on the Links Below:

Android Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.p3ce88bdae0e.www

Apple Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/radio-invasion-fm/id763186200?mt=8

Check Out the Video B4 You Listen!

Youtube Discovery

Who Was Justin Bieber?

Success is the Word

Life and Justin Bieber: Teenage Superstar

Additional Information:​Justin:

What is Apple Music?

How Does Duane Parham Fit into Apple?

Click on the "Sneak Preview" on Apple:​‎I Need a Miracle by Duane Parham on Apple Music

​

An Earlier Version of "I Need a Miracle"

Have you ever had this feeling? That you are alone in this world? A feeling that no one cares . . .

Fear of being alone makes people do things they would not ordinarily do. Once the fear subsides, they wonder how they could have done such a thing!

What Drives Fear?

Healing Fear of Being Alone

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness (Isaiah 41:10)."

Have You Asked the Question?

What It Means to Be Precious

Duane Parham Unmasked

The Educator and Provider

​Duane: Your Precious Love

Duane Parham: The Man with the Horn

Concert Tickets for Kendrick Lamar

The place is Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. The date is August 14, 2022 at 7:30 PM. Get your tickets here.Prices range from 101.00 to 944.00. Are you going?

​

Five Things to Know About Lamar

Answering - "Kendrick Lamar: Who is He?"

Career Highlights

Some of Kendrick's song hits are: The Heart Pt. 2, Keisha's Song, The Recipe, Hood Politics, P&P, R.O.T.C. and She Needs Me. A list of his awards and successes include:​

Now You Can Answer: Kendrick Lamar: Who is He?

We will connect you with:

YOUR BUSINESS - LET THE WORLD KNOW ABOUT IT

Maybe you have a restaurant. Give listeners a quick rundown of your menu. Don't forget the week's specialty!

YOUR NONPROFIT

There is nothing like having a nonprofit that beautifies the landscape. Shout it out!

SHARE BOOKING DATES WITH YOUR FANS

Joey Vee and his band surround Duane Parham in the studio as they worked on his song "Detroit City is Comin Back."

HOLLYWOOD IS HERE NOW!Get Your Ticket !

Watch “Motown Golden Awards Promo 1.mp4” on#Vimeo https://vimeo.com/623961627?ref=tw-share

Archives

Categories

Life in Words & Pictures
We Are What We Believe . . .

Critical Race Theory

Establishing a Drum Voice

Ron Discography
Check out Ron's Spotify Page to hear his latest recordings:
Stay in Your Lane - Take Time - Peace - Low Beat - Up Front

Additional Information:
Justin:

Click on the "Sneak Preview" on Apple:
‎I Need a Miracle by Duane Parham on Apple Music

Duane: Your Precious Love

The place is Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. The date is August 14, 2022 at 7:30 PM. Get your tickets here.
Prices range from 101.00 to 944.00. Are you going?

Some of Kendrick's song hits are: The Heart Pt. 2, Keisha's Song, The Recipe, Hood Politics, P&P, R.O.T.C. and She Needs Me. A list of his awards and successes include:

HOLLYWOOD IS HERE NOW!
Get Your Ticket !

Watch “Motown Golden Awards Promo 1.mp4” on
#Vimeo https://vimeo.com/623961627?ref=tw-share