Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
Video - Philly 360° Exclusive: Biz Markie
It's springtime in Philly and if you're like me, you definitely get the fever as the sun gets hotter. There's so much to do with all of that energy in Philly, so I took mine and headed over to the famous vintage sportswear company Mitchell & Ness to celebrate the release of its Spring 2012 Collection with the legendary DJ Biz Markie.
It was the first time I had been to the new location at 1201 Chestnut and all I can say is wow! The beautiful and enormous location housed some of Philly's most prominent tastemakers as they checked out the new "old school" spring fashions.
Insider Tip: Look out for more female apparel that is being added to the store.
After I got over the initial shock of being overwhelmed by the upgrade, I set my sights on DJ Biz Markie, who has a long relationship with Mitchell & Ness and an even longer one with Philly. Check out the video as he dishes about his long love affair with Philly and what he loves most this city.
Visually Fly With Flygirrl: Mother’s Day In Philly
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for something unique to gift the people you love. And, there’s nothing better than a one-of-a-kind, handmade gift. Of course we always think about sending flowers, but what about a beautiful hand-pulled glass flower? Or instead of buying a great vase, why not take your mom to go and make one together? And you can sip Mimosa’s while you’re at it! Check out the great Mother’s Day festivities below.
Make Your Own Glass Flower for Mothers Day
Through Sunday, May 13
26 S. Strawberry St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(267) 319-1887
$45 | 11 years old and up
I’ve always wanted to try glassblowing. I can’t wait to make a few flowers for the ladies in my life. They have great colors to choose from and the great part is it will only take about 15 minutes! (It will cool overnight and can be picked up the next day)
Insider tip: Still want something delivered to mom? You can also get the flowers delivered for $7 extra!
Mother’s Day Clay & Mimosa Brunch
Sunday, May 13
139 N. Second St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 925-3453
$65/ $60 members
If you’re looking for something fun and different to do with mom this Sunday, this may be the place to go. Grab your mom, friend and grandmother and enjoy a catered brunch with mimosas and learning to work with clay. Then you’ll get to create an original piece together to keep for years to come. (Allow 2 weeks for firing, glazing and shipping)
Music And Art Are In Full Bloom In May
Spring is in full bloom, and Philly’s creative scene is bursting with energy. Now that we’ve breezed through the winter, it’s time to warm up with electrifying music, captivating art and more. Here’s what we’ll be getting into: partying on the Parkway during the opening of the Barnes Foundation, jammin’ to the original sounds of Esperanza Spalding and kickin’ it old school to the soulful classics of the Temptations and the Four Tops. There’s no place bringin’ it on quite like Philly.
Featured Events
Friday, May 4 – Tribute to Jimi Hendrix
Rock out to the year-long celebration of legendary rocker Jimi Hendrix as Philly celebrates what would have been his 70th birthday. Hosted by WRTI’s J. Michael Harrison, experience Jimi’s unforgettable legacy as renowned guitarists Charlie Ellerbee and Ornette Coleman take over the Woodmere Art Museum with an exhilarating tribute.
Celebrated Philly homegirl Santigold will be rockin’ the stage at the Trocadero Theatre. Make sure you grab her new album, Master of My Make Believe, when it drops on May 1!
Thursday, May 10 – The Temptations & The Four Tops
Get ready for a taste of Motown right here in Philly at the Keswick Theatre. We all know there’s no sound like the Philly sound, but who can resist sweet classics like Just My Imagination or Baby I Need Your Loving? It’s just in time for Mother’s Day, so get your tickets today.
Sunday, May 13 – Esperanza Spalding
She’s back and gracing the stage at the Electric Factory, in partnership with the Kimmel Center Presents. Esperanza Spalding brings the vibrant new sounds of her latest hit album, Radio Music Society.
Saturday, May 19 – Philadelphia On Parade
Featuring more than 800 performing artists—including Philly’s own Helen Bruner & Terry Jones, the Justin Faulkner Quartet and the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra—Philadelphia on Parade is taking over five stages at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts.
Friday, May 25 – Jaguar Wright
Philly homegirl Jaguar Wright is giving World Café Live a taste of that irresistible, soulful voice. Fusing the sounds of Patti Labelle, Nina Simone and Mary J. Blige with her own flare, Jaguar always gives mind-blowing performances.
Insider tip: Keep your ears open for her new album. We hear it’s going to be better than ever!
Wednesday, May 30 – Sittin’ In with Jeff Bradshaw
Mr. Trombone has been making some sweet noise all around Philly, and he’s bringing some of that delicious flavor to the Kimmel Center. A jam session with Jeff Bradshaw will definitely be fly.
Insider tip: Make sure you check out Jeff’s hot new album, Bone Appétit!
Spotlight
Next up for Masters Behind the Music is the executive director of Jill Scott’s Blues Babe Foundation and founder of Jr. Music Executive, Aisha Winfield. If you don’t know her, allow us to introduce you—we’re pretty sure you’ll fall in love with her, too.
From a soulful brunch at Ms. Tootsie’s to cruisin’ on the Spirit of Philadelphia, there are plenty of ways to show mom some love on Mother’s Day. Take a look at our top picks for a fabulous Mother’s Day in Philly.
Philly 360˚ Exclusive: Jeff Bradshaw
Philly 360˚ was in the house during Jeff Bradshaw’s album release party celebrating his hot new project, Bone Appétit. With appearances by Kindred the Family Soul, Frank Knuckles of The Roots, Carol Riddick and more, Ms. Tootsie’s was jam-packed with Philly love. Check out the video recap.
Grand Opening: The Barnes Foundation
On May 19, Philly will welcome even more brilliant art to the Parkway with the opening of the Barnes Foundation. Known for its breathtaking collection of Impressionist and early Modern paintings, it’ll be the new cultural hot spot on the Parkway.
28th Annual Celebration of Black Writing
Art Sanctuary is doin’ it big this year with its one-of-a-kind Celebration of Black Writing festival. There will be a host of literary workshops, music showcases and film screenings—and did we mention that representatives of JET and Ebony magazines will be in the house? Block off your calendars from May 21 to June 2!
Laiya's World: The Crates - April 28
Don't you love it when new school joins forces with the classics? Me too! That's why I am so excited to let you know about this great event happening tomorrow, April 28, called The Crates. For all my forward thinking hip hop heads, The Crates refers to the days before 2004 when DJ's carried vinyl albums in crates to different gigs.
On Saturday, some of Philly's finest MCs will join forces to start a series commemorating some of the dopest eras in hip hop. This week they start with 1988-1994. The best part of it all? There will be an actual mixtape released to the public! So, this Saturday join Billy ABSTRACT, DjAYEboogie, Space High Pate, Space High Lil, Ryshon Jones, 5 Grand, Bones HR and Philly 360 Creative Ambassadors Writtenhouse a they present The Crates at one of Philly's freshest new venues, The Headhouse. See you there!
Event Details:
The Crates
Saturday, Apri 28
10:00 p.m.
The Headhouse
122 Lombard Street
Philly 360˚ Exclusive: Philly’s Got Jazz
You can’t dig jazz without first appreciating Philly’s incomparable jazz legacy. From swing to bop to smooth jazz—you name it, Philly’s played it. Not to mention that the greats such as Lee Morgan, John Coltrane, Ethel Waters, the Heath Brothers, Dizzie Gillespie, Grover Washington, Christian McBride and many more have all embraced Philly as their hometown.
Not only is Philly’s jazz scene known for its talent, but also for the indescribable vibe that lives within each venue. So, we rapped about jazz with noted Philly bassist Warren Oree at the Philadelphia Museum of Art; pianist and Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Orrin Evans at SoleFood Restaurant; vocalist Sherry Wilson Butler at Relish; pianist Luke Carlos O’Reilly at Time; and vocalist Samantha Rise at World Cafe Live. If the names don’t ring a bell, prepare to get schooled. They let us in on the evolution of jazz as a unique American art form, and our love for the sound is on a totally different level.
Check out our interview with some of today’s hottest jazz musicians in Philly!
After Dark With AfroDJiak: The Philly Agenda - Events April 26 - May 2
The Philly Agenda is a brief, weekly listing of hand picked events in the Philadelphia area. This week we’ve definitely got you all the way covered. From The Roots Mural Project to DJ Statik at Walnut Room, we’ve definitely got you!
Babylon Cartel Presents: Schoolboy Q
Thursday, April 26
7 p.m.
334 South Street
Inisder Tip: This event features Asaad!, Paris Artelli, Gianni Lee and Ab Soul.
Hezekiah Presents: The Uptown Jam Session
Thursday, April 26
9 p.m.
4912 Baltimore Avenue
Insider Tip: This is an open mic and jam session; no cover.
The Roots Mural Project: Tatyana Fazlalizadeh Exhibition
Friday, April 27
6 - 8 p.m.
Mural Arts - Headhouse District
641 South Street
Insider Tip: Look out for me spinning. This event has no cover.
MMP! Michael, Madonna, Prince, DJ Deejay & Friends
Friday, April 27
10 p.m.
951 Frankford Avenue
Insider Tip: This event has a $5 cover.
DJ Phsh & Place Your Art Here Present PHSH TANK!
Saturday, April 28
10 p.m.
613 S.4th Street
Insider Tip: Look out for art work by Ron Ackins. This event has a $5 cover.
Saturday, April 28
1709 Walnut Street
Insider Tip: This event features DJ Statik aka Mr. Sonny James. No cover.
Mad Decent Mondays Presents Surefire Sound 2012 Spring Tour!
Monday, April 30
10 p.m.
The M-Room
15 W Girard Avenue
Insider Tip: This event features DJ Dirty South Joe and special guests, and it is hosted by Spank Rock. There is a $5 cover for this event.
Wednesday, May 2
1709 Walnut Street
Insider TIp: This event features DJ Brendan Bring'em and Low Budget and is hosted by MC Elixir
Philly 360˚ Rewind: Inside The Studio With Jaguar Wright, the Jazzyfatnastees, Aja Danzler & Lady Alma
Inside the Studio with the Ladies of the Black Lily was a special night for all in attendance. The intention was to bring together a group of women that changed the face of the Philadelphia music scene through one movement and one night of the week called the "Black Lily." At Warmdaddy's, the ladies of It's the Life Creative brought together five of the women who were with the Black Lily from the start until the night it was over. The Jazzyfatnastees were the first to hit the couch in honor of coming up with the idea for such a momentous and historic night in Philly music history.
Later in the night, they were joined by Lady Alma, Aja Graydon Danzler (half of Kindred the Family Soul) and Jaguar Wright. Each lady used the Black Lily stage as their training ground which in turn prepped them to become powerful forces in the world of music. To see them reminisce about their adventures and life-long formed sisterhood was the perfect way to celebrate Women's History Month. To further complement the mood, It’s the Life Creative provided music by Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador and Insider DJ AfroDJiak, and visuals by newly crowned Creative Ambassador Serena Saunders and P Butter Paint, adding to this unforgettable celebration of women.
Check out the video!
Philly 360° Exclusive Video: Estelle
She may be born and raised in West London; however, this Grammy-winner is no stranger to Philadelphia. From working with The Roots to Carvin & Ivan, she's been in Philly and definitely has some of the Philly flavor in her music.
Estelle was in town for her "All of Me" tour as part of BET Music Matters. Philly's own DJ Aktive, Adam Blackstone, Carvin & Ivan, Mike McArthur, Jerome Hipps, John Barber III and opening acts Luke James and Bridget Kelly were all in the house.
Estelle took some time out for students from GRAMMY U, the DASH program and Philly 360° during her soundcheck at World Cafe Live.
Watch her talk about her connections to Philly and more.
Philly 360° Shout Out to Mike McArthur and Jerome Hipps of Mama's Boys Music for making the interview happen!
After Dark With AfroDJiak: The Philly Agenda - Events April 6 - 7
The Philly Agenda is a quick listing of upcoming events in the Philadelphia area that I recommend.
The Bounce with Emynd and Bo Bliz
Friday, April 6
10 p.m.
$5 cover
Tastytreats x LBS with DJs Mike Nyce and Brendan Bring'em
Saturday, April 7
10 p.m.
613 South 4th Street
$10 cover
Insider Tip: Ladies get in for free before 11pm.
JAM In April For Jazz Appreciation Month
JAM In April For Jazz Appreciation Month
Looking for what’s in the pocket in Philly’s jazz scene this month? We’ve got what you need to groove. From jammin’ with Warren Oree at Relish to venue-hopping during the Center City Jazz Festival, there are plenty of happenings making some sweet noise.
Here’s how we plan to JAM:
Gigs
Wynton Marsalis: The Ballad of the American Arts
Tuesday, April 3
7:30 p.m.
Kimmel Center – Verizon Hall
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
City Hall Presents Jazz Bridge
Wednesday, April 11
5:30-6:30 p.m.
City Hall – Mayor’s Reception Room
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Friday, April 13
6 p.m.
230 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Jazz Groove: Sexy, Cool, and Oh So Sophisticated
Friday, April 13
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Jazz Appreciation Concert with Anthony Tidd
Friday, April 20
11 a.m.
Kimmel Center – Commonwealth Plaza
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Insider tip: Anthony Tidd is also the Director of the Kimmel Center’s Creative Music Program.
Wells Fargo Presents: Jazz ‘til Sunrise
Saturday, April 21
10 p.m.-4:30 a.m.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Insider tip: Doc Gibbs, Tim Warfield and Ella Gahnt will be bringing the music until the sun comes up!
Philly Jazz Mural Tour & Breakfast
Saturday, April 22
5 a.m.
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Wells Fargo Presents: Jazz Up, Down and Around
Sunday, April 22
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Insider tip: The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble will tear up the stage with their tribute to jazz icon Lee Morgan.
Thursday, April 26-Sunday, April 29
Various times
7152 Ogontz Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19138
Insider tip: Look out for Sherry Butler’s interview in our upcoming jazz video series!
Saturday, April 28
1-8 p.m.
Chris’ Jazz Café, MilkBoy Philadelphia, Time Restaurant and Fergie’s Pub
Insider tip: Look out for performances by headliner Sean Jones, Ernest Stuart, Mike Boone, Denise King, Luke Carlos O'Reilly, Jessi Teich and more!
Saturday, April 28
Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts
736-38 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Insider tip: Jazz musicians taking us way back to celebrate the American Federation of Musicians Local 274.
Jams
Every Monday
1315 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
James Santangelo Trio & Open Mic
Every Tuesday
10 p.m.-2 a.m.
1421 Sansom St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Every Wednesday
8 p.m.
1400 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, 19147
Insider tip: Hosted by MoShay LaRen and special appearances by Luke O’Reilly!
Every Wednesday
7152 Ogontz Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19138
Insider tip: Featuring the sizzling sounds of the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble!
Wednesday, April 25
8 p.m.
Kimmel Center – Commonwealth Plaza
300 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Every Friday
6-8 p.m.
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Insider tip: The new season starts back up on Friday, April 13.
Every Friday
8-11 p.m.
4912 Baltimore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Grooves
Bone Apetit by Jeff Bradshaw
Insider tip: Check out Jeff Bradshaw’s new video for with Philly 360˚ Creative Ambassador Marsha Ambrosius here. His album will be released on Tuesday, April 24.
Radio Music Society by Esperanza Spalding
Insider tip: Check out the album here.
Forever by Chick Corea
Insider tip: The album won two GRAMMY®’s this year—Best Improvised Jazz Solo and Best Jazz Instrumental Album! Check it out here.
For more insider info on what's happening for Jazz Appreciation Month, check out creativephl.org/jazz.
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- Philly360: dream hampton and Fast Five Freddy waxing eloquent about The Roots at Arts Bank -- Mural Arts' Roots Project panel http://t.co/PsKXgq7X
- Posted May 19, 2012 8:01PM
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- Philly360: There's only one week left until the Night Market at Northern Liberties! Bring your appetite Thurs May 24 (7-11pm). http://t.co/iO5Vsnqq
- Posted May 18, 2012 4:30PM
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- Philly360: Mark your calendars! The FREE @globalfusnfstvl takes place on Saturday, July 21 @penns_landing. #GFF2012
- Posted May 18, 2012 4:08PM
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- Philly360: RT @GlobalFusnFstvl: Have you joined in on #FillInTheBlankFriday yet?? Philly has some of the best ____________
- Posted May 18, 2012 3:50PM
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- Philly360: Wall Watch: @MuralArts presents @theroots panel w/ @dreamhampton @groovecitylady @mrsonnyjames @fabnewyork on 5/19!!! http://t.co/6Zg2fk3R
- Posted May 18, 2012 2:13PM
