Artistry Over Spectacle

The Golden Era of Artistic Grace There was a time when artists carried themselves with a sense of grace, mystery, and sophistication. Icons like Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson had a presence that transcended trends. They were polished in interviews,

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Martone’s Mission: Books, Justice, and Breaking the Cycle

The numbers don’t lie. In the United States, literacy rates and incarceration statistics paint a grim picture—one that disproportionately affects marginalized communities. According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, 21% of adults in the U.S. struggle with basic reading skills. Among

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Rediscovering Myself: Reflections on Club Paradise and Evolving Friendships

There are places that live within us long after we’ve walked away. For me, that place is Club Paradise in Lansing, Michigan. It wasn’t just a club—it was a sanctuary, a beating heart of music, sweat, and liberation. It was where I

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The Lasting Impact of Not Hearing “I Love You” from Your Parents

This article is part of a larger project that will eventually be released as a memoir. I am acutely aware that books are being banned across the country. If this were a book, and if I wrote honestly about love, relationships, and

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First Love Lessons: The Dance Floor, the Drama, and the Power of Intimacy

Discover how intimacy strengthens relationships and fosters deeper connections in this heartfelt story of love, self-discovery, and personal growth. A reflection on first love and its lasting lessons. First Love Lessons: The Dance Floor, the Drama, and the Power of Intimacy “First

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Leaving Old Acquaintances Behind: Embracing Growth and Authentic Connections in 2025

As we step into a new year, the lyrics of Auld Lang Syne resonate deeply: “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?” For many, the answer is a resounding no—there are relationships and memories worth cherishing, even if those

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5 Ways Martone, the Emperor of House Music, Rises Like a Phoenix

Image created by: Martone, Album Cover for Now. Martone, The Emperor of House Music: A Phoenix Rising When Ruelon first named me the Emperor of House Music, I felt a rush of emotions. Flattered? Yes. But also apprehensive. It was a title

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