nikkipanache

Serendipity-An Inspired Music Wednesday

Him: You wanna elope? Like right now? We can go to Vegas … like right now? You wanna go? Wanna elope?
Me: Blank stare* Increased palpitations* Nervousness* Smiling ear to ear
Him: We can do it the right way.
Me: Agreed.

Destiny/Fate, we’re living it, and it has the magic to bring us together with ourselves … and with someone else.

The wondrous life of NIkki!

“Ever Dated an Athlete?”

Him: “Ever dated someone high profile before?” Me: “Whats high profile?”

I honestly don’t like this question at all. It’s worst than asking me my thoughts on abortion. Really. It’s an evasion of my privacy, and you’re asking me this question based on a presumption. You’ve taken one look at me, sized me up, and you’re certain the answer is “yes.”

Deflecting from the question, I will ask, “What do you consider high profile?” and based on that answer, I’ll respond. I should make it clear that I never fancied any local team players. I can’t even name more than 5 Bobcats players or more than 2 Panthers players which is pathetic. I know, I know.

While I love basketball, my teams are the Celtics, Houston Rockets (remember their games in the 80s & 90s?), and I thoroughly enjoy watching Lebron James score.

Besides that, I’m not truly into sports or athletes. It’s just not my thing. These relationships appear to me to be short-lived and tumultuous. They’re flights of fancy …

And I’ve never been too enamored with anyone in the music industry besides Usher. He’s got style that speaks to me. Hah! This is a precursor to my Chris Brown fascination … still. I could belt out nearly any Usher song, on key.

So nope, no high profile dudes in my life.There really isn’t anything juicy to tell. Lol. I date regular dudes. There may have been a doctor; that’s all I’m giving you.

It just isn’t classy to kiss and tell even if I did. But I haven’t.

If there’s a high profile dude currently, he’d be that based on how awesome he treats me not his social status or pay grade. Got it?

This was the most interesting question that I was asked this past weekend, so I thought I share. I appreciate interesting convos, questions, and comments that may or may not catch me off guard.

Enjoy your Tuesday, Folk.

Aside: I bet someone in the background saying: “She lying.” lol Later!

Pending Questions Inspired by Real Ppl in My Life

Instead of internalizing foolishness or blowing up every six months, I figured I’ll let it all out in my daily ASIDES! Today, here are five real questions I have for real people in my life. Let’s go!
1. Why after 5 years of being your alibi, sometimes at last minute, am I not invited to the wedding? 2. With your track record, why do you think I’m telling you to use more discretion? 3. Why does it take you 4 hrs to do something that I accomplish in 1 hr or less? Haven’t you been doing this for years? 5. Why do you use your business as leverage to lure and pick up women, meanwhile, complain about money? 6. Why don’t you use a damn coaster? 7. Do you know the Ginger-Bread Man? 8. Why is your weave hanging on to your dear life? 9. When you go to pet Charlie, why do you think your his best pal? 10. Why do you call me Rihanna? This list just made me laugh. You should too! Im back each and every day with more questions, quotes, and daily tips. Share with a friend.

Practical Tips–Reinforced by the Past Weekend

Practical Tips–Reinforced by the Past Weekend

1. Don’t share personal information with strangers, whether in a bar setting or via text messaging. You don’t know them, and they don’t know you.

2. Always use protection.

3. Don’t overthink and don’t overdrink. Both have their repercussions.

4. Don’t break up with ppl via texts. It causes more heart failure than you know.

5. Don’t put on that bathing suit. It’s still cold outside.

6. Sell domains! “For 10k, you can Coo’ all the hell you want.”

Top 5 Picks on #Netflix #Movies #TVShows

Are you home on a Saturday night? There’s nothing wrong with that. I hope you’ve got Netflix to break away from the day-to-day of your cable box. Sometimes I don’t want to see NeNe Leakes scheming nor do I enjoy seeing black women fight. So I hit the Net to find what else could be of interest. And Netflix knows me well, I apparently watch a lot of shows surrounded around supernatural beings and psychological thrillers. There are even classics that interest me like “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” It’s all on Netflix and more.

So aside from all the drama cable’s bringing you, I wanted to share a few undiscovered gems on the Net. Although, Netflix has taken a huge hit with their new underdeveloped venture—Qwikstar, there’s much to be enjoyed on Netflix.

Here are my Netflix picks for the week:

Damages: Glenn Close’s is a morally-challenged, mind-controlling attorney who is just down-right devious in this favorite of mine. Every move may or may not be to her benefit! Big city setting. I’ve fallen in love with Close all over again. Warning: this series is highly-addictive; sure-fire thriller.

The Gates: Supernatural. Vampires, lycans, and witches reside in a ritzy upscale gated community. Struggling to mind their own business, these supernatural housewives, bad ass kids, and nosey neighbors are stirring up trouble for the new cheif in town. All the characters are easy on the eyes. You’re sure to enjoy. Series.

The Perfect Host: Psychological Thriller. Actors David Hyde Pierce and Clayne Crawford star in this suspenseful film. Your opinion on assailants and victims will change with the twists and turns of this movie. You can’t trust nobody. Watch what happens when a stranger seeks help in the middle of nowhere. Movie.

Dirt: Courtney Cox is really turnt up in this series. A real cutthroat cougar, Cox exploits celebs’ personal lives in order to keep her career afloat. She’s the Tabloid Queen of Dirt Magazine. A few deaths, a schizophrenic photojournalist, and coke heads are sure to hold your attention. Series.

Love Jones: Black Romance. Expressions of black love and life’s imperfections pour all over the scenes. Set in Chicago, late 90s, Nia “Nina” Long and Larenz “Darius” Tate ride the waves of lust, love, and romance. Long, full, and close-up shots. Black and white cinematography. I can never get over Darius attempting to run down Amtrak. wtdta?

Saturday nights don’t have to be another re-run, and I’ve just showed you how. Watch one of my favorites and tell me all about it. Enjoy.

Music Monday: iPod Hits on Replay–Come See

Shout out to all those who had to sit through my French Montana rants and lyric singing. Oh, but you love the song now especially since you can watch Yaris Sanchez sport those Tru Religions. Well here it is again. In my opinion, this is the contemporary version of “All About the Benjamins.”

And one more thing, singing* “girls like you remind me that I’m lonely!!” So I hit you with Miguel too. It’s Music Monday, and these are the hits I’m playing on the iPod, singing over and over again.

Meet The Writer Who Co-Wrote Rihanna’s “Cockiness”–@DEMJOINTZ

We Called It “Suck My Cockiness.” Guess they thought it was a bit too much . . lol

Recently, Rihanna’s latest album “Talk that Talk” owned the number 3 spot on Billboard Top 200 Album list. Her very showy display of raunchiness and “hoo-rah” for sex exploration doesn’t miss a beat or note … Thanks to her producers and writers.

Exhibit A–”Cockiness.” Here, in this song, we are mesmerized by a play on words … Mmmhmmm … Silently whispers “suck my cock-iness, lick my puss-sway-shun … Ohhh!!”

Now if you ask me, Rihanna has only been with (clears throat) you-know-who … She’s still a very respectable young woman in my eyes (pedestal begins to rock)

But where is she getting all this raunchiness from? Does she have a new man? Or are we being duped by awesome writers trickin’ on her lyrics? We need answers.

Luckily, Nikkipanache.com managed to connect with Producer/Songwriter Dem Jointz, tapping into his writing experience for the best track on Rihanna’s album–”Cockiness.”

With Dem Jointz and Candace Pillay’s lyrics fired up with Bangladesh signature screaming foreigner (lol), “Cockiness” has much oomph … To … Get … You … Going … Read on to what Dem Jointz had to say.

Recently, you co-wrote “Cockiness,” a kinky sex song that debut on Rihanna’s recent album release—Talk that Talk. Can you tell me about that writing experience?

Great Experience!! We were presented with the opportunity via Bangladesh. He gave Candice Pillay & I the beat In LA. We loved the beat off top and just started playing around with ideas. Bang walked in the studio and asked if we had anything so far. So I Go “I Love It, I Love It, I Love It When U Eat It” Candice joins in with “Yum Yum Yum Yum.” We were just playing around …wasn’t seriously considering the idea. HE LOVED IT!!

Few days later I was in the car running errands and it hit me. “Suck My Cockiness Lick My Persuasion” I immediately called Candice. “I NEED U HERE!! MEET ME AT THE STUDIO IN 30.” I tried to pre record the idea, so I wouldn’t lose it. I sounded crazy!!! Candice saw the vision, however, and on the spot wrote the 2nd verse … We knew it was the one!! Everything else is history!!!

Who’s idea was it to name it “Cockiness” and why?

We Called It “Suck My Cockiness.” Guess they thought it was a bit too much . . lol

What’s your favorite verse or stanza from the song?

2nd Verse, Candice caught on right away and took it there. I went crazy when she came with it . . YES YOU SEE IT!! YESSS!!

Would you have sex to this song? Just curious. Would it be to the bassline? Even more curious.

Yes!! I absolutely would! BASSLINE And all!! Lol Wait . . Since bang made the beat “Pause” lol!

I see that you produced a lot of Candace Pillay’s “Loveless” and Teedra Moses “Get Yours” feat Raheem DeVaughn. What other songs have you written?

I’ve co-written and produced / co-produced a few things. And a lot more down the pipeline.

And who are you working with now in the studio (artists, producers, etc)?

Besides Candice Pillay? Just focusing on the task at hand, but I am working with a great artist right now, “Ashley Xaviera.” I’m so excited to get back in the studio with her.

What artists, in your opinion, are hot right now and which of them would you like to work with?

Everyone!!! I’m just happy to have the opportunity!! Shout out to Bangladesh, DeShawn Kennedy, & Manger Denzil Foster

Tis’ the season for GIFTS!!!

What other musical gifts (talents) do you have?

I do it all!! beats, drums, vocal production, writing. I can hold a note somewhat (I think), even engineering . . Mr-One-Stop-Shop-Man!!!

What gift are you eager to give this season?

I want to give my sons iPads for Christmas.

Signing off, what advice would you give aspiring songwriters?
Don’t stop. Think outside the box, and attack your goal with confidence.

Also, here’s a song, Dem Jointz co-wrote/co-produced, Keke Wyatt’s “Unbelievable.” This is a beautiful ballad just right for the season. It’s on repeat over here. Check it out and tell me what you think.

Wanna find out more on DEM JOINTZ. Here’s his twitter @demjointz Special S/O @Demjointz for doing this interview. I appreciate you.

Gifts & Relationships: Holiday Edition, Take One

$1995

JSWMG 3rd Annual Red Pump Affair Recap

Thursday night, I attended JSW Media Group’s 3rd Annual Red Pump Affair which was held at the Harvey B. Gantt Center. Jameka Whitten, the Charlotte ambassador for the Red Pump Project and Owner of JSWMG, put together a night filled with fashion, spoken-word entertainment by Bluz, and networking. Purposefully, JSWMG was able to engage its audience meanwhile educate them on prevention of HIV/AIDS.

JSWMG also awarded Joanne Stevenson for her dedicated work in educating and counseling those who live or are being impacted by the disease. Stevenson gladly received her Red Pump Award–a mounted, sparkling 4-inch red pump.

At Closing, Andre Jarrid, one of Charlotte’s up-and-coming designers/stylist, presented a gawking, eye-catchy, mini collection … suitable for socialites. See clips from the event below. Big shout-out to CBS Radio Personality “Chirl Girl” and DJ Yasmine Young who kept the party going. And thanks to JSW Media Group for inviting us. Next time.

Red Pump Project Founder--Lovette Ajayi and JSWMG--Brittani Menina

An exercise to represent a percentage of infections

Designs by Andre Jarrid

I rather be in Bangladesh … A Review on Rihanna’s “Talk that Talk”

“Cockiness” domineers Rihanna’s new album–”Talk that Talk,” giving raunchy a new meaning. Nothing like Madonna’s Erotica as some compared it to be. It’s definitely better … taking you there where you won’t go in public. Or will you?

This chick hasn’t been the same since “Good Girl Gone Bad.” And I love her that way, trashy and revolting, unsettled and exploring. There’s nothing constant except change, and Rihanna shows us more ways to reinvent ourselves.

Adding to this guilty pleasure, Producer Bangladesh adds his signature, a foreigner yelling in the background. It just gets me going. It’s better than kissing ‘neath the Eiffel Tower with Dirty Money’s “Last Train to Paris” and rings with the same magnitude of excitement as Jay/Ye’s “N*ggas in Paris.” Apparently, I’m missing something commonly found in Paris. Yet I much rather be in Bangladesh with Rihanna.

Speak Now Tour–Taylor Swift Takes Charlotte

CMA Entertainer of the Year Taylor Swift performed in Charlotte November 16 at Time Warner Cable Arena. During “Mine” and “Story of Us,” I captured these wonderful pictures. In her two-toned gold and silver fringe dress paired with chocolate knee-high boots, she excited all those who awaited Speak Now Concert since the show was rescheduled from July’s original date. She served it up, and the crowd responded in pure pandomonium.

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Swift is a triple-platinum Singer/Songerwriter who is the youngest of six women to earn CMA Entertainer of the Year. “Mine” peaked 100 on Billboard Hot 100. In October, she introduced her fragrance to world–Wonderstruck. Also, ranked the Rolling Stone Hot Women of the year alongside Carrie Underwood, Beyonce, and Rihanna. Enjoy my favorite Taylor Swift song below.

“The Luxury is Keeping it at Home”–Chevy Owes Me Ad Money!!

You’d think I was out here purchasing a new collection of cars with all my FB rants over imports and domestics. No matter which angle you look at, the car business is heating up. And the increase in production rates for luxury hybrids, hybrids, and fuel economy vehicles truly predates a market that is now preparing to buy for the future.

With that said, in preparing for the curve of tomorrow, I assert that we start buying domestic more. As said on FB, we can’t expect for the economy to ‘normalize’ if we don’t invest in our own country, in all things made in America. GM has globalized and has outsold Toyota in 2011. See article.

No matter the sociopolitical environment, I think we can all agree that this country was partially built in Detroit. Moving forward, check out these Chevy commercials … let’s get back to our roots!

Is there someone in your family who remembers a Chevy? I’m sure there is … At any given get-together, a great-uncle might brag about some old Chevy he had back-in-the-day … and recall all kinds of happenings that you don’t want to discuss. Chevy captures that moment in the above commercial.

[http://youtu.be/JHim2gvKflw}

New Chevy Volt is your electric car that also requires fuel. Perhaps you can go a few months without gassing up. Now that’s luxury.

Well, what do you think? And what exactly are you driving out there? This is an open forum and all opinions and comments are welcome.

Remembering R&B Artist Heavy D

RIP Heavy D

Try My Hot Spots

I reviewed my expenses today and concluded that I’m quite loyal to a few neighborhood eateries. I’ve been trading-off what could be beautiful stilettos or winter booties for tapas, burgers, and an array of cocktails.

While these restaurants have tasty eats, their backdrops–barmaids, servers, grand furniture and crowds–provoke unexpected encounters which I enjoy above all else. I call it a “Uptown” experience. Imagining I just walked 30 blocks for a dirty martini, I dip into one of these … To change my dining scenery.

Firebirds–This is the sexiest restaurant of them all, dressed up in mahogany. If it were a man, it would wear loafers, cabbie hats, and a scruffy chin. “Bernard” we’d call him.

It’s squared-away bar seats a little over a dozen strangers. An odd number could even the playing field.

If you haven’t guessed it already, I’m telling you it’s a perfect place for new and newly found dates.

About midweek, I meet my girlfriends there to catch up. All cocktails on their drink menu are $5, and the lobster-spinach queso is a crowd-pleaser. Try the Agave Nectar Margarita and a mojito.

TacoMac–A newly fave. I ventured here twice in a day, once before, managing to make it to the new location in Huntersville and the other in
Southpark. I so loved on their sweet potato, shoe-string fries and watched a friend smash her chili nachos. Don’t count your calories here.

Kalu on Sixth–(I renamed this spot) A real episode of “Cheers” starring me. A few bartenders know me by name and are always friendly. Good service and Asian inspired wings. When frequented, I’ve ordered a Tokyo Tea (think Long Island Tea).

Furthermore, I heard from a little birdie that Kalu’s buzzin’ in November. They’re hosting several events including a charity auction on the 20th. So check them out.

Please note that I can’t promise you cheap eats here. But I can honestly tell you that I’ve enjoyed myself at these ‘hot spots.’ The food, the company, and service is all good. So try it out, if you haven’t already.

Auctioning Off Men for a Good Cause 11/11 KaluNC

Morning, ladies. Just received this in my inbox yesterday and had to share. There will be a date auction at Kalu which is on Sixth, Novemeber 11. There, women can bid on eligible bachelors of Charlotte. When is the last time you had a date? Was it even worth your time? Apparently, these brothers have been handpicked for their semblance of ‘creme of the crop.’ So maybe you’ll have better luck here. It’ll cost you, though … Details below.

Here’s a glimpse of what the night will have to offer. Looks like chocolate! And lots of it. Think I’m gonna attend just for that … I can get my look on. “OWWWWW”

For more info, hit up Metro Proponent.

Caution: Hot Contents

When people ask: “What’s Socially Panache?” I tell them plain and simple that it’s being sexy without being tasteless.

But to further explain it … It’s smarts bearing confidence, constantly beaming positivity, and a socially conscious individual. That’s what our brand is all about!

As women making it in this Brave New World, we find ourselves moving at the speed of light, juggling career with personal fulfillment. In maintaining a lifestyle that suits us best, we shan’t jeopardize our integrity.

Join the Socially Panache movement … Where you can be as sexy, as smart, and as socially conscious as you want to be with much class!

Interested in purchasing a mug? Get yours and join the new wave of being Socially Panache today.

Later, Panachers!

http://Socially Panache Mugs. Get them here.

The Chicken Box Shares Thanksgiving Recipe

With holiday shopping in full effect, we are quickly reminded that Christmas is just around the corner, yet we’re approaching Thanksgiving. In celebrating family and a season of giving, NikkiPanache.Com discusses family and tradition withThe Chicken Box. Owner Dianne Barnett and Marketing Director Barbara Massey comment on southern cooking and share a family favorite recipe. Read on.

Your tagline “Miss Your Momma’s Cookin” reaches an audience who celebrates family-style dinners? Aside from traditional family dinners, what traditions do you remember from childhood? And what traditions do you implement today?

Sunday Dinners, Family Summer Vacations, Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays

As your tagline suggests, our momma’s cooking is treasured in our hearts. Aside from the fried chicken and black-eyed peas, why do you think that is?

Because my mother always made sure we had a good balanced meal everyday.

Since we’ve all tasted Ms. Barnett’s vision, let’s discuss your cooking, Ms. Massey.What southern dishes do you enjoy cooking at home?

Baked Chicken; Collard Greens.

Sounds yummy … When I cook, I listen to Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra and other notes of nostalgia. Is there something you must do while cooking?

I love to watch “The Judge Shows.” LOL!

“My momma makes the best potato salad” is a lie I’ve heard too many times. LOL. What dish is your claim-to-fame amongst your family?

Turkey Wings

What dessert is your claim-to-fame?

Pecan Pie and Coconut Cake

With Thanksgiving just six weeks away. Do you mind sharing a recipe with NP?

Dianne’s Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients

1/2 or 2 Heads of Broccoli

2 Eggs, Beaten

1 Smal Onion–chopped fine

1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup

1/2 Cup Mayonnaise

1 Cup Cheddar Cheese-Grated

1/2 Cup Butter–Melted

1 Package Herb-Seasoning Stuffing

Preparation

Cook Broccoli and set aside.

In mixing Bowl, combine eggs, onion, soup and mayonnaise. Mix well.

In an oven-safe casserole dish, layer broccoli, sauce and grated cheese in alternate layers.

Top with stuffing mix and pour butter evenly over top.

Bake in pre-heated oven at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until done.

Serve immediately.

All this talk about food is really making me hungry …

Thank you Ms. Barnett and Ms. Massey for sharing The Chicken Box with us since 1978 and serving some of the best fried chicken ever tasted. When I’m not in the mood for cooking, I know just where to find a hearty meal. 3726 North Tryon St, Charlotte NC (704) 566-6000

Purchasing Tickets for @BigSean Show Oct 4?? Mention NikkiPanache as an Affiliate Co!

"Photoshoot Fresh"

Nikkipanache.Com will cover Big Sean show October 4 at Greene Street Music.

In celebration, a kind of pre-game here at NP, I gotta share a personal favorite off the Finally Famous LP–”I Do It.” Grandstanding, Sean shows off his freshness especially that oversized medallion ring, that chocolate skin, and his nice set of pearly-whites. I’m sure you have your own reasons for liking @BigSean. Let “I Do It” be another!

See BigSean in person, October 4, Greene Street Music.

PINK Party.

dbruan promotions and Elevate Lifestyle bring you the 5th Annual PINK PARTY!

Dress code: Come dressed in your PINK ATTIRE and support a great cause! Benefiting The American Cancer Society.

Saturday, October 1st – Doors Open Up At 9pm and the party continues till 2am.

This party has gotten so big we have expanded it to include Kazba this year.

STAY TUNE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

SPONSORS: SKYY, Michelob Ultra, Charlotte Seen, CBAY, KISS 95.1, Paschal Promotions, 704Events and Go Social Club.

Mez Charlotte and Kazba
210 East Trade Street Charlotte, NC

Invitation Only Fashion Show

Luxury Fashion designer
Lore Emelio unveils All Things Grand, her Fall 2011 Runway Collection at 8:00pm on Saturday, October 1, 2011. Held at thespectacular Silver Hammer Studios, this monumental occasion is the paramount fashion event of the season.

The inspiration for All Things Grand is a collaborative blend of the cosmopolitan elegance of our
modern world enhanced with a sophisticated bohemian essence, reminiscent of the luxurious lifestyle
of the Shanghai golden age. The character of this vibrant era materializes through Emelio’s
configuration of both sleek and voluminous silhouettes in rich jewel-toned fabrics. Additional
highlights of the runway show event include model vignettes, a Grand Hall Guard, and live movement
installation.

Framed within the NC Music Factory, famed Silver Hammer Studios, will bare its urban canvas and be
transformed into a revelation of regal wonder. Highlighting the works of several prominent NC artists,
the venue itself will be showcased as a site-specific installation demonstrating the quality and diversity
of NC art as experiential design.

After party will be held at BUTTER NC. All Things Grand is by invitation only and free of charge.
To request an invitation, RSVP@LoreEmelio.com. Check out the site for updates.