MAHD: Rhare artist of the month

Detroit’s newest artist MAHD is adding energy to his career after his first EP release "MAHD ALMIGHTY". He released several songs and videos including "Lotus", a cover of Jay-Z and Kanye West's "Otis". MAHD has been featured on many social and music sites as VIBE.com, 2dopeboyz, Kevin Nottingham, and other main music websites. Check out the link to his video "Hello Detroit" http://youtu.be/kOPzbDI6Gp0

After writing and making songs the last few years for other musicians and himself, MAHD made his entry  into the music scene with his single "Pretty Ladies". The song dropped online to great acceptance  and love, and the official video is presented on World Star Hip Hop. "Pretty Ladies" continues to obtain steady radio and club play across the Midwest, most outstandingly in his hometown of Detroit. MAHD can be found on iAmMAHD.com and Datpiff.com.  

RhareFootage had the pleasure to interview MAHD , and get a better look at this “Rhare” artist.

1)            How long have you been performing/making music?

I've always messed around with music but I started taking it serious around 2010.

2)            How would you describe your music?

I would describe my music as heart felt and authentic. Like a collage of everything I came up on, with my own touch added to it.

3)            What inspired you to write your single “Hello Detroit”?

My city inspired me. When AwillTraxx  first sent the beat, I instantly felt the need to speak on my city. I just heard Hello Detroit once I hit play. The rest is history.

4)            What should your fans know about your album “13”?

This album is very personal. It's everything that happened in the year 2013. From start to finish. The good, bad and ugly. I really took my time on this album so I want people to just hear my story. Hopefully some can relate.

5)            What made  you pursue your dream of music?

Initially, I would always say I never wanted to rap for real. After a while of hearing many people say I need to take it serious, plus me not being satisfied from the music that was being put out at the time...I finally decided let me see what I can do. I just wanted to make music that I'd like to hear.

6)            When  was the moment you knew music was your passion?

I grew up surrounded by music. From my family to my friends. So I've always had a passion for music and it's always been around me. Even if I wasn't doing this full time I’d still be just as passionate about music. It's a major part of my life.

7)            What inspires you and your music?

Life experiences. I make sure I talk about my life, what I've done and seen personally. It comes out in the music. I feel like if I talk about my life then I'll always have something to talk about.

8)            Would you say being from Detroit influence your music? If so why?

Yes, definitely. I grew listening to Slum Village, Dilla's beats, Royce, Em and the list goes on. It definitely set a standard in my eyes of where my music should be. Detroit has made some of the best artists in the world so being from here definitely influences me. Also just the city and people itself play a major role.

9)            Do you believe your musical roots influence your music?

My musical background plays a big part in my career. Coming up I got to see the ends and outs of making music and the industry. So when I started it was like second nature.

10)          How would you describe yourself as an artist?

I would describe myself as an artist that can't be put in a box. Lyrical, original, aggressive, versatile and more. I'm always looking to get better and learn new things. I push myself with this music.

11)          Describe yourself in one word and explain why you chosen that word to describe you.

Determined. I say this because no matter what comes my way I'm determined to get where I'm trying to go. I won't let anyone or anything stop me.

12)          What would you be doing if you were not doing music?

I'm not really sure. Maybe I would've went back to school or something. It's kind of hard to say now that I'm doing it because I can't see me doing anything else.

13)          What do you look to for inspiration when writing your lyrics?

I normally only record when I've already been inspired by something. I write about my life so when something happens. Good or bad, I write about it. So I normally don't have to look for inspiration because if I haven't been inspired by anything then I'm not getting in the booth.

14)          What do you want people to take away from your music when they hear it?

I’d like them to take away something they can relate to. Rather it be a line I said or a whole song, if they can relate and it helps them get through their day then I've done my job. I feel like everyone goes through similar things so what I'm rapping about, someone else may be able to relate to it.

15)          What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the music business?

Be prepared. You have to be prepared mentally and physically. There's a lot of ups and downs in this game and if you're not mentally prepared you may feel like giving up. Also stay ready so you won't have to get ready. This industry isn't easy so staying ready helps to make the job a tad easier.

16)          If you can say anything to your fans, what would it be?

I honestly appreciate everyone that rocks with me. Everyone that comes to my shows or help spread my music or support in anyway. I appreciate all of it and it helps me to keep going. Shoutout to the fans!

17)          What makes you a rhare artist?

What makes me rhare is I stay true to myself no matter what. Also I feel I'm the best. Seeing that there can only be one best at a time I think that makes me very rhare lol.

     Interview by

                                                                                                                                                                Rhaylinn Thompson 

The Secret to a fun Labor Day Weekend

Hello my readers!!

It's Labor Day weekend in the city! What is fun to do?....Jazz Festival

The Detroit International Jazz Festival was originated in 1980 by Robert McCabe and the Detroit Renaissance. Alongside with the Detroit Grand Prix and the International Freedom Festival, Jazz Fest was anticipated to bring people into Detroit and to deliver all parts of the population with world-class entertainment. It rapidly became a Labor Day Weekend tradition at Hart Plaza, a city park beside the Detroit River designed by Isamu Noguchi and Shuji Sadao.

    

  The mission of the Jazz Festival is to: Adoptive the history and cherish the development of jazz,

Continue Detroit’s significant jazz legacy through educational and collaborative opportunities accessible to all, and Present a world-class signature event that makes Detroit a tourist target. 

Yes everyone this weekend is Labor Day weekend. I remember every year my aunt and uncle would go down to Hart Plaza to go watch the performances. This festival is the sign to the citizens of the city of Detroit that summer has come to a close and fall is here. I would tell anyone to come to Detroit and experience the Jazz Festival and I promise you after you come the first time, you would come back every year. 

For more information about the festival and performances please check out the website. 

http://www.detroitjazzfest.com/2014lineup.html

Sweetwater Tavern

Sweetwater Tavern is a local historical restaurant in our downtown area. Actually Sweetwater Tavern is located in the heart of Detroit’s historic district with roots that goes back to the mid-1800s. First as a hotel, then evolving with the city to become a restaurant and bar, Sweetwater has been known for its authentic homemade food for thirty years. Sweetwater is within walking distance from the major places in Downtown Detroit: the Renaissance Center, Hart Plaza, Ford Field and Comerica Park.  There are three shuttle buses that provide free rides to all Tiger, Lion and Red Wing games, as well as major concert events. Sweetwater has build a reputation over 30 years for its compelling chicken wings. 

I'm be real with you all. I never been to the main location, but I went to the express location. I was with my mom and we was riding down McNichols road (aka 6 mile for my Detroit readers) when she said let's have Sweetwater for dinner. I have heard of Sweetwater, but I didn't know they had an express location. We pull up to the restaurant, and the only thing I do not like is the parking lot. It's way to small and it's only one way in and one way out. We was greeted with big smiles and jolly hello's. The two gentlemen working there was so nice to me and my mom. One of the gentlemen said " you ladies here to try our famous Sweetwater Wings, right?" I said yes. I'm not much of a sauce girl, but when I said no sauce everyone in there looked at me with shock. The work told me to try with the sauce first. Since he worked there I took his advice, and he was right. I love the sauce. The service was great and they treat everyone that comes into the door like family. 

I could go on and on about this place and it's food, but why spoil it for? The next time you hungry and you in Detroit, stop by Sweetwater Tavern or one of their 3 express locations. You won't regret. 

Downtown Location:                            

400 East Congress Street 
Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 962-2210

Express Locations: 
15640 W McNichols Rd
Detroit, MI 48235
Phone: (313) 272-2500 

16849 Harper Ave
Detroit, MI 48224
Phone: (313) 417-9000 

29296 Northwestern Hwy
Southfield, MI 48034
Phone: (248) 356-5800

WHAT GROUP DO YOU BELONG TO??

Am I the only one who wonders why we are friends with certain people and not others? I notice today that the world is set up like the fictional high schools in the 90's movies I use to watch. Even in college, jocks sit and hang out with jocks and the list goes on. Myself, I do not fit any one special group. I like to do my own thing. I even notice teachers would treat you different if you fit in a certain group or not. I always find this to funny.  I Never knew that belonging to certain groups and stereotypes was a big deal in this country or world.

I am not the "normal" girl. I like wrestling and cartoons. I can also make a sailor blush with the way I talk. I see how I don't get the same respect from my male counterparts as my more "feminine" friends. I think that is crazy. Just because I don't wear tight clothes, high heels, go clubbing every night, and twerk on every guy I see don't make me any less than a woman. Treat us all the same!!!!!!!!! I learn to do things on my own because over the years guys showed me that because I am the " home girl" or their buddy I don't get the helping hand from them. I learn to open my own doors, cut my own grass, figure out whats wrong with my car, and to protect myself when I walk late at night.

Fellas, if you see a woman is walking behind you, no matter how she is dress or looks hold the door for her. Let her feel like a woman for just a mere second, since the rest of the world wont let her have that respect. I have male friend that hates to see me open a door. Like I told him, no man ever do it for me so I just learn to do it for myself. This ties to my post from yesterday, its all about self worth. I guess you can I lost a lot of it over the years, and I am finally gaining it back.

All and All today was a good day. Just remember if you having a bad day, change your thoughts and your day will change. In other words, think of good things and good things will come to you. REACH FOR THE SKY THEN ONCE YOU REACH IT...MOVE ON TO THE STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY!!

I know this, I am late posting this, but I had to make sure I was clear in this post. I AM AN ALLY!!! I am also a Christian. With National Coming Out Day just passing on the calendar, it made me think about my gay and lesbian friends who came out to me in the past. The one thing they all had in common was they were afraid I would no longer be their friend, but that was far-removed from the truth. Yes I do have strong religious beliefs, yet I follow one major rule of my faith and that’s “thou shall not judge”. All I care about is if that person, rather boy or girl, is treating you with respect and love other than that I don’t care who you date.  I SUPPORT GAY MARRIAGE!!!! I don’t understand what the problem is. I am working on a degree in Psychology, and I can tell you there is no real proof that a child growing up in a household with Same Sex parents are going to be gay or have terrible psychological issues. If they found someone they want to be with for the rest of their lives, and want to marry them. LET THEM!!!!! The world will not end and society will keep going on.

                There are 3 gay men that are my world. I call them my gay husbands. The nickname came about because they all have qualities I look for in my husband, and if they were straight I would totally date them. They are ranked by who came into my life first. I start backwards first.  Husband #3 I call him white chocolate. He is the newest member of the group. I met him through husband #1 because that’s his boyfriend. He is totally sweet and kind guy. The first time we met was at my birthday party last year. I know we have many more years of memories to come, so stay tune for that. #2 husband is my down for whatever husband. He’s also the only husband that watches Rupaul’s Drag Race with me. We talk about the makeup and dresses and the runway of all the queens. He is also the photographer of this family. He also keeps me up on all the underground artists and music. Now we reach the top dog of the group. Husband #1 is my protective and most professional out of all 3. We met 7 years ago and ever since we been together. All this boyfriends have to meet a standard that I have for him (I got to make sure he is a good man that’s all) and the same goes for my boyfriends have to meet his standards. He had opened my eyes to so much. He helps me with my budget, school, resumes, men/dating/ fashion, and my new project losing weight. He always keeps me on track to reaching my goals just like the other husbands. I don’t know where I would be without him in my life. He spoils me almost like a real husband, and our 7th anniversary is coming up October 17.  Yes, we celebrate an anniversary. I love all my husbands equally. One day I will be at their weddings.  I just wanted to tell all the young or old people out there that are scared to come out to friends/family. It’s OK to be who you are completely. If they truly love you then they will accept you for who you are, don’t for one second think that someone who say they love you truly do because if they are trying to get you to chance who you are, or make you feel ashamed of who you are then they don’t truly love you. I LOVE YOU ALL!!! KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!!  Remember YOU, YES YOU, YOU ARE PERFECT and were created by the most high and HE DID NOT MAKE NO MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU!!!!!!!!!  *kiss* 

                

Standing on the Soap box for Detroit

The last few months, I have made post regarding all that is positive and good in my home state and hometown. I started this blog to get the word out to young people like myself and even to people that are older than me, that the state of Michigan is not for “old people” or “retired auto workers” that there are great things to do in Michigan that people can have fun doing. I also started this blog to show the world that Detroit is not a city full of “thugs, robbers, killers, rapist, etc.” Yes, there is crime here in the city of Detroit, but we are a large city and crime everywhere not just in Detroit, but in your own neighborhoods. Detroit is a city full of history. History in music and national history. Did you know that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave the famous I have a Dream speech first in Detroit? Yes, right here.

                I am very passionate about my hometown. I cannot believe the media treats us (Detroit) as if we are some war torn country. This is the place that built the car you are driving in, yet you swipe us down like flies ruining your picnic. I do not hide the fact that there is crime in my city every day, or there are cold cases that may never get solved, yet that’s all the media, older generation of Detroit citizens see and talk about. How about the youth that’s trying to make the city better, and the people who trying to show the good in the city?  

                All I ask is this simple, unpretentious, and meek demand of you, my readers, followers, friends, and family. Before, you start to point your nose down on the city of Detroit or the state of Michigan as yourself these questions: Is this happening in my city or state? Would I be hurt or insult maybe even offended if this was said about my hometown or state? Are they truly trying to fix their problem?  Before you speak, type or record your transgress insult about Michigan, Detroit, OR our citizens please do remember that for every bad or negative thing you say about us, we can say about you too, yet we are more responsible, stable, considered, adult, and most important we are more established group of people not to point out your defects, failings, imperfections, weaknesses. I would go on and on about this topic But I wait to hear from you my readers and see what you think about this before I continue. Until then my loves, speak positive and live what you say.

MGM GRAND CASINO

     Out of the 3 casinos in Detroit, MGM Grand is really grand. The MGM has a very elegant atmosphere. Once you walk in, you will see that everyone is dress to impress. T shirt and jeans are not socially allowed. It’s more sophisticated than the other two casinos by hotel, clubs, spa, and individuals who enjoy the casino. MGM is your one stop place for everything fun in Detroit.

Ever wished that this night could last forever? Pamper yourself with the good life at the award-winning hotel nuzzled in the heart of Detroit. Near all major sporting and entertainment locations and only 20 minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, MGM Grand Detroit is the perfect place to recharge after a night on the town. Their full-service concierge team is prepared for your advent and at your service to assist with restaurant reservations and any special arrangements needed during your stay. Please email concierge@det.mgmgrand.com for assistance. Check-in time for the hotel is 3:00 pm; check-out time is 11:00am. To reserve a hotel room at MGM Grand Detroit, you must be at least 21 years of age and have a major credit card. MGM Grand Detroit requires a major credit card upon check-in, which will be authorized for the room, plus tax, and an incidental deposit of $200 per stay.

MGM Grand Detroit serves up a premier gaming experience. One that is clothed in modern amenities, luxe décor and plush places to relax and play. With nearly 4,000 slots and video poker machines, 98 table games and Detroit's premier non-smoking poker room, MGM Grand Detroit is the place to see and be seen. Gambling can become a disease. If you or a love one has a gambling problem Call 1.800.270.7117.

IMMERSE spa

Tranquil waters. Rich woods. Soothing light. It's a total sensory experience wrapped in urban luxury at IMMERSE Spa.

IMMERSE spa now accepting Spa Finder gift certificates and to book an appointment, call 313.465.1656 Reservations are highly recommended. Group Reservations of 5 or more, and including spa parties and special events, call 313.465.1656. Group reservations include 5 or more people which all will receive 50, 80, or 110 min services with the exception of waxing, baths, and add-ons.

Hours of Operation

Tue - Sat              8am - 8pm

Sun                        8am - 4pm

Restaurants

When it's time to indulge, give in to your appetites at our signature restaurants; catch the big game at Detroit's newest old sports pub, TAP at MGM Grand Detroit; allure your taste buds at Palette Dining Studio; or grab a quick bite at Breeze Dining Court. Our garden of enchanting delights is created to please.

Entertainment & Nightlife

With five exceptional lounges and bars, every evening spent at MGM Grand Detroit promises to be unforgettable. Live music and DJs. It's this high-energy and powerful nightlife that earned them the status of ultimate entertainment destination in Metro Detroit. As the sun sets, the temperature rises at V Nightclub. Give into persuasion as a vivid light show of erotic images dance around you. Escape the boundaries of everyday life, where stunning servers present a kaleidoscope of concoctions and create the vibes for an exciting night out. And when it comes to planning an evening to remember, a bachelorette or birthday party, V Nightclub makes you and your girlfriends the center of attention at the hottest party objective in the land. Get ready to stir your desires and supercharge your senses at V Nightclub. For VIP accommodations at V Nightclub   313.465.1650 or nightlife@det.mgmgrand.com

Ignite Sushi Bar & Lounge

Offering exotic sushi and premium cocktails, Ignite Sushi Bar and Lounge has all the elements necessary to light up your night. The sole tapas-style menu features hand-rolled sushi every Thursday through Saturday. If sushi's not your style, settle in and sip a premium cognac, whiskey or scotch. It's the untouchable lounge experience. Ignite your weekend with their new $10 Sushi & Sake Fridays! Every Friday from 6-8pm, enjoy drink and sushi specials at Ignite Sushi Bar & Lounge on the third floor inside MGM Grand Detroit.

Agua Rum & Tequila Bar

Satisfy your thirst in the marine paradise, Agua Rum & Tequila Bar. With more than 20 tequilas and rums, plus a wide variety of signature margaritas, caipirinhas and mojitos, good times drift like a tributary at Agua Rum & Tequila Bar.

Hours of Operation

Friday & Saturday            5pm - 2am   

I can tell you everything you need to know about MGM Grand, but why would I spoil the fun for you? Come down to Detroit and experience it for yourself.

MGM Grand Detroit

1777 Third St.

Detroit, MI 48226

877.888.2121

Christmas!!! all year long!!

     Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland started from unpretentious beginnings, hurriedly growing through more than a few expansions to become the World’s Largest Christmas Store with stunningly remodeled grounds casing 27 acres.  For initiator Wally Bronner, the excursion has always been about CHRIST, and “decorating hearts with peace and love.”  Wally was a long-lasting fixture in Bronner’s, working only on days “that end in ‘Y’” as he always said. His warm smile and colorful jokes brought JOY to all he met. That legacy is still passed on to the millions of guests who experience Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland each year since his passing in 2008.

          Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland is world known for having Christmas 361 days a year! Number of television shows and programs has recorded the beauty that is Bronner. Everything you need for Christmas you can find there. The store is so big every shopper is giving a map so they would not get lost. I love the story! No matter what time of year it is, but when you walk in the store you are hit with the holiday spirit. Strollers and wheelchairs are available (there are no electric scooters, but feel free to bring your own). Sorry, but due to health department guidelines with their snack area, pets are not allowed in the store (service animals welcome).

Store hours:

January through May

Monday - Thursday & Saturday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

Friday 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Sunday Noon to 5:30 pm

June through December

Monday - Saturday 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Sunday Noon to 7:00 pm

The store is closed on January 1st, Easter, US Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Bronner's closes at 4:00 pm on December 24 and 31, and from noon to 3:00 pm on Good Friday, 4:00 pm on January 7 for inventory, and 4:00 pm on Jan. 18 for the staff Christmas party. Bronner’s is closed all day January 1. Come enjoy Christmas all year long in Frankenmuth Michigan!!!

social media: facebook.com/bronnerschristmas or twitter.com/BronnersXmas

www.bronners.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

PHONE: (989) 652-9931

FAX: (989) 652-3466

BRONNER'S CHRISTmas WONDERLAND

25 Christmas Lane, PO Box 176

Frankenmuth, MI 48734-0176, USA

CUSTOMER SERVICE & EVENTS INFORMATION

(989) 652-9935, ext. 352

customerservice@bronner.com

(Please note that all of our available trees and lights are shown online.)

COMMERCIAL DECORATION SALES INQUIRIES

(Displays for Cities, Malls and Businesses)

www.bronnerscommercial.com

GROUP TOUR INFORMATION

Diane Karst

(989) 652-9935, ext. 423

dkarst@bronner.com

MEDIA INQUIRIES

Lori Libka

(989) 652-9935, ext. 442

llibka@bronner.com

WHOLESALE DEPT.

Business to Business Sales

www.bronnerswholesale.com

CUSTOM ORNAMENT INQUIRIES

(For quantity orders 100 pieces or more with custom design, logo or photo)

Dune Riding in Michigan

     

Mac Wood’s Dune Rides are one of the great summer activities in Michigan. I went to the dune rides every summer for an orthodox 3 years. I love every solitary time. The ride is great to do if you have a group of children or a group of adults. The dune rides started in 1930 by a man named Mac Wood. According to Mac Wood’s Dune Ride website, the first dune car was model after the model A Ford and only held 4 riders at a time. Now, they use a 4 wheel drive amended automobile with 4 aircraft tires to help carry about 20 persons per ride. Thousands of people ride each season! Currently, they have a history museum to tell you all about the beginning years of Mac Wood and the dune ride plus old signs that were once use on the sand dune route. There is also a lighthouse on the sand dunes called. The lighthouse is 115 feet tall and one of the tallest working lighthouse on Lake Michigan. It has been in practice since 1874 and also has a public beach. The lighthouse is now open for tours.

          When you come to Michigan, you have to go to Mac Wood’s Dune rides. It’s a wonderful experience and truly gets to see the true and natural beauty of the state. It’s not that many places in the mid-west where people can say I went sand dune riding. I could go on and on about how wonderful, delightful, perfect vacation activity for you to do here, but why would I tell you when you can come to Michigan and see for yourself.

Rates for 2013              

Age 12 and over - $17.00

Age 3 thru 11 -   $11.00

Age 2 and under - Free

* Rates subject to change.

Mac Wood's Dune Rides

629 N. 18th Ave.

Mears, MI 49436

Phone: (231)873-2817

Call the State Park for dates and hours of operation for The Little Sable Point Lighthouse: 231-873-3083 Rates are 2$ for Adults and $1 for kids.

Kids have to be 36" or taller.

The Mrs. Carter Show, Detroit Dedication

Even Beyonce , Mrs Carter herself can see nothing can stop us.  Start doing things to change the problem and push on. Don't sit and whine about what's wrong or who is in office or  who have the power of the city. If you don't like it change it!  As my dad use to tell me " someone made it off the boat, someone made it off the plantation, so no matter what you come up against there is no reason for you not making it" I love my home town and I started this blog because I became tired of seeing negative reports about Detroit in Detroit and on the national scale. I understand the city have major issues that need to be taken care of in the best way possible, but all the killing, attacks, and stealing have to stop. This blog is to uplift my city and bring light to the good and positive things that are here in Detroit. Detroit help build this country car by car, so don't let this city go down in ruins. I'm doing my part by showing all the good in the city. Mark Wahlberg have an interview on a late night showing saying how he had to convince his wife to come and vacation here, and the only reason she didn't want to come is because of what she heard about us on the news. He got her to come and she enjoy her time here. People, yes we have crime and money issues, but name one city or state in this country that do not have the same problems or worst. I say this to say I love my hometown. Detroit made me and now it's time to remake Detroit