So Gay So What! My Night at ICON

It's all fun and games until somebody arrives home at almost 3 a.m. to discover he doesn't have his house keys and thinks he must have lost them in the sedan (to or from the club) or at said club. Fortunately, the door from the street was open and I was able to curl up to sleep on the hard, cold, cracked terrazzo of the foyer for a few hours (still unable to get through the inner doorway to the house), then get breakfast and toilet privileges at the downstairs deli once it opened at 7 a.m. I have one neighbor in the building, my friend, Kevin (he lives on the 2nd floor & I on the 3rd), whom I phoned upon waking but whose voicemail took over. So I sat in the sunshine, still in my fleece-lined dungaree jacket until Kevin happened to come down about 10:15 a.m. Know what? I'd left the keys in my apartment all along. Big Duh!

But fun and games -- and entertainment, and social soiree and benefit for So Gay So What -- it was last night at my favorite club, Icon, in Astoria, Queens. As you can see, pictured at left, there I was with So Gay founder, the quite bewitching Darren Melchiorre and my brother from another mother, club owner Nick Lion. The event was on national Coming Out Day. The irony wasn't lost on me, you know. Plus, Icon has added video screens! All deliciously devoted to its promotion of events!

And, again at left, my son from another daddy, Martin, was there, looking cute cuz the boy can't help it. Tony Mansfield, another good Icon buddy was also there for to schmooze with. It looked like a good time was being had by all and the house was jam-packed with the typical, friendly see-and-be-seen and sparkle, Neely, sparkle Icon crowd.

I met three of the performers from the Haus of Mimosa; Nick and his life partner, Ben, and I toasted to their recent anniversary and to my retiring from my day job (to have more time for the nightlife I love). Billboard dance diva Rachel Lorin sang her hits beautifully and paid tribute to So What by doing a dance version of Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors" on the Icon stage. Get Out Award-winning sexy bar staff, and those hot, hot Icon go-go gods!

Oh, and then there was that giant drag queen....

EXCLUSIVE Q&A with SO WHAT SO GAY Founder, Darren Melchiorre

Darren Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Thanks for doing this interview, Darren. I look forward to your benefit night at Icon, NYC's hottest club, on Saturday, October 11! What can you tell us about it? Darren Melchiorre: The SO GAY SO WHAT campaign is all about recognizing and celebrating the role models in the LGBTQ community. People who participate in our photoshoots range from artists to celebrities to everyday people. We celebrate who they are, their individuality and their inspirational story! When I first went to ICON in Astoria, NY, I immediately felt like I was at home. Nick Lion, the owner, was so warm and gracious and greeted us. He got to know who we were which I haven't experienced at a gay club in years.  It reminded me what I used to love about nightlife: the community.  I was looking to highlight an LGBT club in the campaign for some time and I knew right away that Nick Lion and ICON were the perfect fit. They were ALL role models to me; Nick, the staff and everyone there. I didn't feel like I had to impress everyone. We were all stars that night, there to dance and have a good time. So the Oct. 11th party is about celebrating ICON! We have a whole week of the campaign planned to highlight Nick and the ICON staff! I cannot wait! DBB: When did you start up SO GAT SO WHAT  and why did you feel there was a need for it?  DM: WHAT campaign actually started by accident. I was working on an LGBT concert promotion and being the designer that I am, I needed something different to promote the concert and get people's attention. I thought, why not highlight the artists who are not afraid to stand up and be who they are.  I needed to get the ball rolling so I asked seven friends to be in the campaign and it snowballed from there, catching the attention of many prominent LGBT figures like Jason Walker, Ari Gold and Michael Musto. You know, today we get so caught up in celebrity hype with the Kardashians and reality tv that sometimes we forget who the true role models can be; everyday people. When I was coming out, I didn't know who I could tell or who I could trust. There were three people whom I will never forget who helped me in every step of the way of my coming out. It was my intention to always be that for someone else. So I wanted this campaign to be that, to highlight the everyday role models in our community who are proud of who they are in hopes of inspiring courage in others. We need to remind ourselves that role models don't necessary walk the red carpet. They are our all around us and in each other.  DBB: I know that you live in NYC? Did you grow up here? DM: I actually grew up in New Jersey, but I always found myself coming to New York City while growing up.  New York City is very much a part of my youth and to see it change over so many years (for the better and not) has really been a big part of my growing up as an artist. DBB: I'm a Jersey boy, too! From 20 miles outside. Same thing about my attraction to the City since I was a kid. Went to college in Boulder, Colorado, but rocks didn't do it for me. You're quite young still. How did you pull this all together? DM: I never sleep! Ask any of my friends and colleagues! No, seriously, if there is one thing about me that I love its' that when I am passionate about something, I will throw myself 200% into it, making it happen and making it shine. And I had a lot of help from my friends who also love the campaign. This campaign truly has my heart in it and I make an attempt to get to know the story of every single person who participates in it. Everyone who does the campaign is considered family and I didn't want it to be where you just came in, got your picture taken and that was it. No, I wanted to know what motivated them to do this. In the end, it is the person's story that I cherish the most and that is what is reflected in the photos. That is the heart of the SO GAY SO WHAT campaign. Nick + the boys DBB: When did you first know you were gay? DM: I first knew I was gay during my senior year in high school. High school was a rough time for me because I really didn't know what I was experiencing. No one talked about being gay in my high school and if people knew you were, you were teased and bullied. I put up with more teasing and bullying in high school than I want to remember.  In a way, I was very lucky I discovered I was gay at the time I did because I could go to college and really discover and accept my sexuality. Little did I know that more intense bullying would happen in college in the form of an extremely homophobic roommate. Thankfully, three people took me under their wings and made me feel safe while coming into my own at college. I will never forget them for that. DBB: What were your formative years like? Your growing up? DM:  I am the middle child in my family and I have complete middle child syndrome. I always wanted to be heard and then at times I would go into my own world and be quiet and creative. I was good at art so that was my escape. I was sick with really bad asthma growing up so I couldn't really participate in sports and do a lot of things because of my asthma. So when I was sick, I would either throw myself into work or go and create something, whether it was a drawing or building with Legos or anything. Who would have thought that would lead to a career in graphic design.  DBB: Favorite divas? DM: Wow! So many. I think my favorite divas are the people who stand the test of time, who create something and it's as fresh as it was 20 or 30 years ago. I am a huge Cyndi Lauper and Melissa Etheridge fan. Their music, especially their lyrics, kept me going in so many ways. I want to work with them someday!  DBB:  Who inspired you the most in your lifetime? DM: I am beyond fortunate to have the most amazing parents and they have inspired me for most of my lifetime. My Dad is the smartest person I know (and he still is) and he taught me to be smart, always ask questions and to discover new things. My mother taught me how to love, and I truly cherish that. DBB: Gay people have made many advances since Stonewall. How much further do you see our progress in the foreseeable future? DM: Oh, we have such a long way to go, even though I am so beyond proud of what's happening now, especially with so many states embracing marriage equality. On the other hand, as strong as our community is, we are our own worst enemy. We are the first people to come together and we are also the first people to tear each other down. And that's what has to change.  DBB: Any last shout-outs to the LGBT community around the world? We are one. DM: Yes! If you can be anything to anyone in this world, be a role model. The best thing you can do for someone is to be a role model for them. Take someone under your wing. Give them guidance and opportunities they may not be able to get for themselves. To me, that has always been a great privilege. DBB: Thanks, Darren, see you on October 11 and can't wait to meet. DM: THANK YOU!

Masquerade Party at Icon

Hot off the heels of Nick Lion's NYC club Icon's Night of 100 Marilyns, that Queens pleasuredome was hot again last night, despite the unusually cool August temperatures, as divine dance diva Masquerade was in the house. It was my pleasure to meet dance music's newest rising star who is signed to Inaya Day's new label, Ny-O-Dae Music, Inc.

I recently interviewed Miss Masquerade, so it was a thrill to meet her in person at Icon. http://djbuddybeaverhausen.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-diva-behind-mask-exclusive-q-with.html This lady is a triple threat of brains, beauty and talent as she later displayed when she performed with her two male dancers.

Masquerade opened her three-song set, after midnight, with her chart-climbing new dance number, "Higher," an energetic, makes-you-want-to-move tune, to an appreciative and very packed house. She followed it up with two splendidly rendered covers: Rihanna's "We Found Love (in a Hopeless Place), that I liked better than the original, in fact, and a sensational interpretation of Robin S's "Show Me Love." Kudos to Barbara Sobel for arranging for Masquerade's appearance last night.

Dj Ian Ford was dj'ing and truly sparked a disco inferno, as the party people packed the floor. And, as usual, Nick Lion was the most gracious host with the most.

Here are some pictures I took  of another fabulous, Iconic night:

The Diva Behind the Mask: Exclusive Q&A with Masquerade

Masquerade is another hot summer diva, along with Toni Sea and DeVonde Williams, off Inaya Day's new dance-music label. Masquerade is quite a charmer; at turns clever, campy, hilarious, theatrical, always entertaining... and that's just in this interview! Can't wait to see her later this month @ Icon, NYC. Ladies & gentlemen, I present the one, the only, the divine Masquerade!

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Welcome, Masquerade, to our Q&A, where dance music fans around the world can get to know you a little better. For one thing, your name. How did you come to reinvent yourself as the house-music diva known, alluringly, as Masquerade?

Masquerade: Thank you! I’m glad to be here! Hmmm, MASQUERADE. The truth of the matter is I was terrified of entering the world of Dance Music. Especially since Inaya Day would then become a colleague of sorts-and have you heard her?! I mean, there are some serious, certified DIVAS in Dance that I’d have to contend with. So I needed something to hide behind; you know, just in case! There's that, in addition to the fact that Masquerade is just one of my musical personas, and I kind of wanted to keep them all separate.

DBB: You have a very hot new dance track entitled "Higher." Can you tell us a little about that and the remix ep coming from Ny-O-Dae music?

M: Well, I actually wrote “Higher” for Inaya! She loved it, but had already recorded an album’s worth of material that was on a tight release schedule. She told me that I had two options: to wait ‘til she released all of her new music (which could take well over a year!) or I could do it myself. That’s when I told her that I don’t sing “House Music ” and she replied, “Why not?!” (With that- “Stop being a punk”- tone in her voice), and I just couldn't come up with a good enough reason not to! So I guess HIGHER created Masquerade! Inaya signed the song to her label, and has been instrumental in creating all of these amazing opportunities that keep rolling in! They are all different, and it’s crazy hearing what these fabulous producers came up with! Remixes from Mike Jolly, Lucius Lowe, Phonix & Yllavation, Samuri Divided souls and La Alen, and Deep Dive Corp! They feel like totally new songs!

DBB:Ny-O-Dae is the hot new label from recording artist Inaya Day. How did you two divas hook up?

M: Inaya and I have been friends for years! I actually used to tour manage her around 2004-2006. We met through her late brother Schon Jomel Crawford many years before, who was my musical mentor, putting me on the stage at night clubs in NY since I was 16! He was also an amazing singer.

DBB: New Yorkers can see you performing soon, at Icon in Queens, where I look forward to seeing you live. Can you share the date and tell us a little of what we might expect from you?

M: Yes! I’ll be at Icon on Friday August 15. You can expect me to look nothing like any of the pictures you’ve seen! I don’t even know what I’m going wear yet... but it will be HAWTTT!! Expect to have a blast and to sing along to Higher- because I will be testing... you especially!

DBB:You performed at Chicago Pride Fest earlier this summer. What was that like and is there anything in particular you'd like to say to your LGBT fans?

M: Performing at Chicago Pridefest was exhilarating and terrifying all in the same breath! I mean, here I am a new artist, on the same stage with Jennifer Hudson, Thelma Houston, and of course Inaya Day! That was pressure- but soooo much fun! The LGBT community embraced me, and was singing my song (a song that I’m sure most of them had never heard before) long before I’d even finished the first chorus! That was such an amazing feeling. So to the LGBT fam, I want to say THANK YOU… ! Thank you for being the ones who show up, support, sing the songs and buy the music!!!! (Got me higher --Thank you!)  

DBB: You live in Atlanta, you have a little girl, you work, you tour, you record. How do you juggle all this? What are the demands like to live in both worlds: that of a dance diva on the go, showing up at clubs to perform, recording, and being a mom with a child to take care of?

M: Honey!!!  I thought I was keeping all of this stuff under wraps! Do I look like I’ve had a child!? Stop spreading rumors!!! MASQUERADE has no children! But I guess the chick behind the mask has one or two, or THREE! And she told me that it’s crazy trying to juggle being a mother who is active in her children’s lives while still trying to pursue a career in music. I think it would have a little different if she had been established as a successful artist first and then started the family. Because right now, there is a whole lot of ground work that has to be done as an up and coming artist, with little compensation. That scenario makes it imperative to wear 2 and 3 hats in order to maintain a lifestyle that will not conflict with [what] her family has come to know. She records at home -- sometimes with one kid sleeping on the couch in the studio, another on the floor doing homework, and one sitting on her lap with her hand over his mouth! Luckily, she has a great support system. All in all, I'd say it’s rather impossible- but Masquerade hails from a land of infinite possibilities!

DBB: Great answer. What career do you see for your alter ego, the glam and somewhat mysterious Masquerade? Where do you see Masquerade five years down the road?

M: I hope that Masquerade is household name in 5 years. Heck! I hope Masquerade becomes a household name by the release of her next single!!!  In five years, I see her singing because she wants to, not because she has to. Being able to live comfortably through the success of my craft, cranking out Billboard chart toppers, and coming back to hang out at cool places like Icon without the mask and no one be the wiser? That's my ultimate goal!

DBB:  If my information is correct, you were born in Grenada, grew up in Brooklyn and later moved to Atlanta. What was the time frame for all that? That is, what years did you live in each of those cities?

M: What?! Are you the CIA?! I’m supposed to be incog-negro!!! Remember?! MASQU- erade!!! (laughs) I’m not giving you specific years either! Because then you’ll figure out how old I am! I was born in Grenada, a beautiful island in the Caribbean, and came to America when I was 5. I grew up in little West Indies (Brooklyn), and didn’t leave there until I was in my twenties. Then I moved to Jersey City for about 2 years until I relocated to Atlanta, (the metro Atlanta area) in 2008. Been there ever since. I love it, but I do miss New York a lot, and can’t wait to get my fix in two weeks!

DBB: You also have a fabulous new single coming up which is, in fact, titled "Fabulous" and there's a video in the works by famed celebrity photographer and music-video director Karl Giant. What can you share with us about that?

M: FABULOUS is my baby!!! I love that song! Much like HIGHER, it’s an empowerment number, but it’s a little more fun, and playful. I actually wrote and recorded the original version of this song over 10 years ago at Inaya’s home studio in Brooklyn! When Inaya told me that we were vastly approaching the time for a follow-up, FABULOUS was the first thing that came to mind. When I told her that I was thinking of recreating it, she told me that she was thinking the same thing! As for the video, I love Karl Giant’s work, and when we finally got a chance to speak, his ideas were amazing... and costly!  But, oh so WORTH IT! I cannot wait to get the ball rolling on this! We are due to start filming when I come to NY for the gig at Icon in August.

DBB: Great timing! Masquerade, thank you so much for doing this Q&A. I look forward to seeing you perform at Icon when I will join your Ball. Any last words you'd like to leave your fans?

M: Fans?! I have fans?! Surreal. I really want to meet and personally thank you all! So if you are in the NY area on the 15th, PLEASE come see me! MUAH!

From Beauty Queen to Disco Diva: The Voyage of Toni Sea. Our Exclusive Q&A

Toni Sea has an incredible history she'll be sharing with us in this EXCLUSIVE Q&A arranged by promoter Barbara Sobel. You can catch Toni perform Friday night, July 25th at ICON in Astoria, NYC.

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Greetings, Toni, & thank you for doing this Q&A with us. 

Tony Sea: Greetings! NOT A PROBLEM! Thanks for taking time to chat with me!  

DBB: How are you keeping cool this summer?

TS: Why, you know. I don't just keep COOL! I can't help it... Cool keeps me, cuz I'm so HOT!! You know how we do!!  [Smiles]

DBB: My readers adore having a new dance diva on the scene. What can we expect when you promote your new number, "Need Your Love" at Icon, Queens, this coming Saturday night?

TS: Well, this FRIDAY NIGHT... at midnight; I guess it will be Saturday by then... expect a kick-ass performance and hot dance music that's gonna make you shake a tail feather! BE READY! BE FOREVER READY!

DBB: You're a recording artist on Nyo-Dae Music. How did you meet or come to sign on with Inaya Day and her label? And promoter Barbara Sobel?

TS: Inaya Day is a longtime sister friend of mine whom I've had the pleasure of working with in the touring company of The Wiz nearly 22 years ago!  We were playing opposite Stephanie Mills I was Aunt Em &amp Glinda The Good Witch!  Since then, she knows that I've been working as a professional backing vocalist and one day told me that she wanted me to come and record/write some songs with her... I did; she's tough love... cuz, I've definitely lurked on some things in the past when my head wasn't clear, but she doesn't play when it comes to music... and when I started getting back on track, she contacted me again; we talked and she put me on a few more, and then eventually signed me to her label! She believes in me, and that's why it's easy for me to be in her company. I know that she has my best interest at hand... in heart... and that, to me, is worth more than any money can buy! As long as I know that she's happy and that I represent the best of my abilities, we gon' fly HIGH... and we gon' Fly RIGHT!! That's how we roll!

DBB: You currently reside in NYC but were born and raised in Mississippi. When did you make that move and what was adjusting like?

TS: I was born and raised in Pascagoula/Moss Point Mississippi! Two small towns along the coast, the GOLDEN GULF COAST of Mississippi. I went to school there, and H.S. there but graduated from a school in North Mississippi.  When I won my state pageant, I eventually got married to my FIRST husband and lived in Pittsburgh for five years. We separated in 1992 and I moved to NYC, and I've been living here ever since!  It was pretty hard when I first got here because I was going through that divorce, but then I auditioned and got The Wiz and it became such a wonderful experience to be here in NYC!  I met my second hubby and we had two children together, and WE are now divorced but God blessed us with these wonderful sons that are musicians and singers just like their father & I.  So, NYC has been pretty good to me.

DBB:What popular music and recording artists influenced you growing up?

TS: I would have to say, Michael Jackson is my absolute favorite, Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole & Deniece Williams (when I was younger), Patty Labelle, Jennifer Holiday, Chaka Khan, Diana Ross & Teena Marie. (Whom I later ended up singing background vocals for after moving to NYC.)
  

DBB: You are also an actress. What have you done in that regard and what are your personal five favorite stage/screen performances? 

TS: Wow!! That's a GREAT question!! YES!! An Actress, indeed, I am! I'm a stage actor, and I don't get a chance to go out on a lot of auditions, but this year, I will! Thank God, the Casting Directors that KNOW my work will actually call me directly and tell me that a director wants me for a show! That means a lot to me.  I won an AUDELCO award for the role of Miss Mamie for a play/semi-musical called "The Widow & Miss Mamie!" (ONE OF MY TOP 5 FAVORITE parts I've done); Sister Ann from "What Would Jesus Do" ,... "I, Barbara Jordan!" (my first ONE WOMAN Show w/25 pages of MONOLOGUES!!!)  YES. and it was directed by Woodie King, Jr. (You know, he founded Viola Davis, Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson..AND TONI SEAWRIGHT!) (He truly believes in me and that, to me, is the STRONGEST coming from the ICON in Woodie King, Jr.!! I can't lose with his support!! :) "The Josh/Satchel Page Requiem for Harlem" is another one, "A Time To Love" (features the music of Stevie Wonder, and I got a chance to sing my fave Stevie Wonder Song: "Love's In Need of Love") HEY!...Can I have six??? My most recent show, "Sowa's Red Gravy" w/Lonette Mckee (Original Sister from Sparkle and the lead in ALMOST ALL OF THE SPIKE LEE JOINTS)  & Kene Holiday (Detective from Matlock)...I LOVED THIS SHOW!! It was incredible!  I played a WITCH & that was the hardest role I've ever had! I had a 15-minute monolog that sped up at the end! Pretty incredible moment!

DBB:When did Toni Seawright change her name for the stage to Toni Sea? And why?

TS: I've always signed my name Toni Sea..for years since a child..I played basketball & ran track and that was just short name that people would call me...However, when I got older, no one called me that..it wasn't until The Wiz that my good friends would call me that..However, it was Inaya Day who said that would be more catchy to use the shorter abbreviated name for my music...and thus...A STAR WAS BORN! [laughs]   (I saw on YOUTUBE where this young lady is using TONI SEA for her CLOTHING LINE!! I have GOT TO STOP HER ...IN THE NAME OF NY-O-DAE!! WE GOTS WORK TO DO!! GIT OFF MY NAME!!  They don't EVEN KNOW!!!  :)

DBB: Can you tell us about Toni Seawright Music & Entertainment Showcase?

TS:The Toni Seawright Music & Entertainment Showcase is a weekly showcase that I host & produce at the FIVE SPOT every Wednesday night. This show gives the performers, who would NOT likely have a platform, a chance to taste the stage and see how they can book a show for themselves on the weekends. But yes, it's something that I love doing... my band is hot, and we are really packaging the show to shop for a reality serries! YES, it's a lot of fun... and I'm so happy for the support that I've gotten from my friends!! 

DBB: You seem like a pretty enterprising kind of a gal with a lot going on. Where do you find the time and energy?

TS: I am constantly recreating myself! I have to in this town!! My stamina is the love that I have for my wonderful children, my family & friends. I love to have people who are genuine around me!!  I love knowing that I have the support of wonderful family & friends!!  I am in school studying Oriental Medicine (Herbal Med/Acupuncturee) and that is the side of me that loves healing!! I will take my time to do this..as this is NOT a means to make money, but to extend myself as a practitioner who heals others... and I think that is just ANOTHER extension of the God in me....

DBB: You were the first African-American Miss America contestant from Mississippi.  Can you tell us about that experience and how you got into pageants?

TS: Yes, I entered the pageant at the local level to win scholarship money and God took me ALL the way to Miss America!! It was, indeed, a dream come true!!  It turned the pageant world UPSIDE down! [laughs] I got so many calls & telegrams! Yes, telegrams from many people... Jesse Jackson... Lionel Richie ... Dexter King (MLK's Son)... there were so many wonderful people contacting me and it was really cool!!  I got a chance to represent my state as the first Black to win...and that, to me, is a testament in itself....

DBB: Any last shout-out to fans and fans-to-be about Friday night's gig?

TS: YES YES YES!! It's GOIN' DOWN!! I'm YELLIN TIMBER! !You BETTA MOVE!! YOU BETTA DANCE! IT IS GOING DOWN!!!!

Exclusive Q&A with Dance Music's Next Star: DeVonde Williams

I met Devonde Williams at the Queens Pride event at Icon in Astoria. She was backstage supporting her famous cousin, Inaya Day, who would perform later that night. I recall her as a ball of positive energy (much like her cousin). Now it is DeVonde's time to step into the limelight with a new dance single called "Jump In" with Lucius Lowe. Expect dance remixes from Sobel Promotions. It is DeVonde who will grace Icon's stage this time and I look forward to being there to see her at the single's release party on September 12th!

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: You have a big event scheduled for the not-too-distant future at the club, Icon, in Astoria. Can you share any details with our readers?

DeVonde Williams: This is going to be a high-energy grand event with a lot of love, laughter and of course singing and dancing. You will just have to be there to understand the magnitude of how GREAT an event this will be!

DBB: You happen to be cousins with a major dance-music diva. What was it like growing with her?
DW: Well I can say there was NEVER a dull moment! From jumping on and off beds to falling off beds, singing and dancing all over the place we had and still have a ball! Our family is VERY IMPORTANT to us. Our family is so close-knit, we grew up more like sisters than cousins.

DBB: What kind of music do you like to listen to. And what recording artists, outside of Inaya, have influenced you?
DW: I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MUSIC! I believe music has a healing power! I LOVE ALL genres of music! Funk, r&b, jazz, neo-soul, classical, folk, pop, gospel, rock, rap. I love Jill Scott, Billy Joel, Ella Fitzgerald, Barbara Streisand, Mahalia Jackson, Billie Holiday and my three musical GENIUS friends in my head: Prince, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. The list goes on but I MUST say the sweet, sultry tone of Gladys knight I just LOVE!

DBB: Tell us about Heartshare & your involvement there.
DW: Heartshare human services is an agency that I have been dedicated to for nine years that helps improve the life of people with developmental disabilities and special needs. I am a supervisor in the day program and I help the individuals develop to their fullest potential [regarding] common life-skill goals that we often take for granted. It is very rewarding and I am delighted to be a part of such an organization.

DBB: You're from Brooklyn, where I also live now. Any special summer events there you're looking forward to?
DW: I grew up in Sunset Park I look forward to so many things from the free concerts at Wingate Park to the festival on 18th Avenue. There is no place like Brooklyn! I love it.
DBB: I'm in Bay Ridge, so we're practically neighbors!

DBB: What are your plans, right now, as a singer with a growing career? Do you see yourself following in your cousin's footsteps as a dance diva?
DW: There is no one on this earth, living or dead, like Inaya. My prayer is that I can come as close to her professionalism, her energy, her brilliant mind and her vocal skills and performance. My plan is to keep pushin keep on pushin to the top. [winks]

DBB:I hear from producer Barbara Sobel that dance remixes of your latest recording may be forthcoming. Is that correct? And how do you feel about that?
DW: That is correct and I am ecstatic beyond measure.

DBB Picture this: You walk into a club, they're playing you singing your song and everyone's dancing to it. How do think that you'd react?
DW: I would be super duper elated and would join in on the dance floor.

DBB: Is there anything you like to do more than sing?
DW: No, not really but I love to dance and I love to cook. If I have a bad day, I dance like no one is watching and when people eat my food they feel my love!

DBB: If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?
DW: [Laughs] Wow, my mother would say fabulous but I say humbled.

DBB: Thank you so much, DeVonde. Look forward to seeing you at Icon in September!
DW: No, thank you! And, yes, I will see you in September.

Inaya Day at Night

Brooklyn's Inaya Day will head to Queens on Saturday, May 31, to perform at the fabulous, swank new hot spot, Icon. Doors open 9 pm. The internationally renowned singer is best known as the lead vocalist for her long string of house music hits that include "Keep Pushin'," "Horny," "Movin' Up," "Feel It," "Can't Stop Dancin'," "I Am tha One," the dance cover of "Nasty Girl" and, most recently, "Make Some Noise" with Dj Escape.

Ms Day has performed on Broadway (understudy to Stephanie Mills in "The Wiz") and starred in the Dorothy role on the road. She is an accomplished song writer and has written songs recorded by the likes of Missy Elliott, Bootsy Collins and Randy Crawford. As a session singer, she has appeared on tracks by Michael Jackson, Queen Latifah, Al Green and many others.

It was indeed a privilege to have interviewed Inaya Day this past December:
http://blabittobeaverhausen.blogspot.com/2013/12/inaya-day.html

This amazing Billboard-charting artist will kick off a series of vocal performances by various dance-music artists at Icon, courtesy of Barbara Sobel and Sobel Promotions. There is no cover charge on May 31. "Drink specials and GoGo Gods will make Club ICON the only place to be as we celebrate Pride!" boasts the club proudly.

Of course, Buddy Beaverhausen will be there and hopes to finally meet the diva in person. Dj Ian Ford will be in the house, bringing up the energy and kicking off LGBT Pride in high style. This will be a major event for June, which is LGBT Pride Month. Manhattan's Pride celebration (June 29) will traditionally climax with the pier dance followed by fireworks. The diva for the annual dance on the pier will be Demi Lovato. Frankly, I much prefer seeing -- and hearing --Inaya Day!

"Club ICON in Astoria Queens is the ONLY Place to be!" exclaims Barbara Sobel. Absolutely right on! And celebrate the Queens LGBT Pride March the following day, June 1st.

Barbara Sobel's ICONic Birthday Bash

The Queen of Dance Music, Sobel Nation's Barbara Sobel, held court in the cozy corner at the club, ICON, in Astoria, Queens, NYC, the evening of April 27. She was crowned and bejeweled by club owner and music producer ("Love Goddess") Nick Lion in our elite coronation ceremony.

On the ride in, my driver's radio played Belinda Carlisle's "Heaven Is a Place on Earth" just before my destination. It was a harbinger of Dj Ian Ford's hot stream of '70s-'80s-'90s dance hits. Indeed, "Heaven Is a Place on Earth" was one of them. We also heard Donna Summer, Dee-Lite, Pet Shop Boys, Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Alicia Bridges, Pamala Stanley, Chaka Khan and so many other iconic divas of those decades. And Barbara is determined to bring a type of fun and exuberance back to modern dancefloors via Sobel Promotions, featuring a long list of the best remixers, of whom Ian Ford is one. (Check out our recent interview: http://djbuddybeaverhausen.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-barbara-sobel-birthday-social.html )

I asked Ian about his name, which I've seen also spelled as "Fford." He told me the double-f spelling's old hat and that he only used it, initially, for distinction. But once his career ascended on the LGBT circuit, he no longer needed to do that and now prefers the original, traditional spelling of the name.

Ok, you djs out there, remember: Ford has a better idea when it comes to mixing a hot and seamless set as he did for Barbara's birthday.

I met Barbara's friends, Karla and Tracey. Tracey told me about her work with Timber-S Cat Rescue, having just returned from one of their events. Karla is the manager of Trylon Vet Care, where Barbara brings her cats. Unfortunately, none were present at the event.

Nick & Ben

It was a true pleasure to finally meet Nick Lion's husband, Ben, with whom I enjoyed chatting at the bar. Of course, ICON excels in its service and friendly, no-attitude staff of beautiful men. It was raining men at the club for Barbara's special night. In fact, Ian prominently played the Weather Girls' hit when the go-go god (a/k/a stripper) entertained us all, though he was most close-up and personal with Ms Sobel and her circle of friends. After all, she was the birthday girl and this night was in her honor, and that included having a groove thing shaking right before her.

Special thanks to our waiter, Martin. Queens born and bred, he is just a sweetie and quite guileless and unaffected, despite the stereotypes people might harbor about New Yorkers.

Eric, our bartender, was also especially friendly and exhibited such grace under pressure on the job behind the busy bar. Just as cute and cordial as can be.

Thank you guys. And thanks to all of the ICON staff. By far the best!

Eric, Buddy B, Nick & Martin

I left, taking a shot of our go-go god, my chariot awaiting. WKTU on the car radio, sailing home while listening to more blasts from the past; songs like "Rhythm Is a Dancer" and --  believe it or not -- "Heaven Is a Place on Earth." On this night, that place was called Icon in Astoria.

At home, of course, I listened to the music on Sobel Nation Radio over the Internet:
www.sobelnationradio.fm

Our go-go god

 

To Martin, Eric and all the young men at ICON tonight, and also to my younger self, I dedicate this music video:


More pictures from Barbara Sobel's ICONic event below:

It's raining go-go gods, ladies & gentlemen!

Spin, Baby, Spin! Ian Ford (nee Fford)

Our bartender Eric & I. He's wearing the new Icon t-shirt

ICON's Marilyn-themed VIP Lounge

Exclusive Q&A with Club Dj/Remixer Steve Amoroso

Dj Amoroso was spinning at Icon on the club's opening in December. We said hello, but Steve was already busy spinning so there was really no time to talk. Therefor, I was so grateful (with special thanks to Barbara Sobel) to be able to learn more about the fabuloso Amoroso when he agreed to do this interview.

Dj Buddy Beaverhausen: Hi, Steve! It's such a pleasure to finally get to interview you since I heard your set at Icon's opening night. You're now resident dj there on Wednesday nights' Fierce. What can club goers expect from your sets, and are they indeed promised to be fierce?

Dj Amoroso: I’m glad you asked! Wednesday nights are indeed nothing short of fierce. Patrons can expect to hear something new and fresh or even classic at times. I believe music shouldn’t have rules, and being different is what makes a party memorable and unlike the rest. I believe most of us are tired of hearing the same songs over and over. I remember when people used to go out to discover new music, to hear songs they never heard before and fall in love with them. My fondest memories of some of my favorite songs is where I first heard them, usually at the nightclub with my friends dancing our asses off and screaming, “What is this track? Oh my God!” I don’t get the same enjoyment hearing music for the first time on the radio, tv, internet; it’s just not as special an experience. I look to recreate that experience as best as I can during each and every one of my sets. If I can make life long memories through my music or even one song for one person that night, then it was all worth it. Music-wise, you’ll hear a mix of all sorts of house music, with the goal of making everyone shake their asses off. I am also bringing in my very talented special guest DJ / producer friends now every week, who are both well-known locally and internationally, and that will turn you out each and every Wednesday.

I see that you live in Astoria, the neighborhood in Queens where Icon is located. Does that make your bringing your records and equipment to the club convenient; less of a schlep for you?

Records, no [laughs], it’s been a long time since I’ve brought out the milk creates with vinyl records but I would love to one day, especially since it is so close to where I live. I literally walk to and from Icon; it’s about a 15-minute walk and I’m not lugging records or CD’s any more. I recently went all digital spinning on USB sticks. All my music loads up just like a CD on the Pioneer CDJ’s at Icon and I can bring hours, even days, worth of music on one tiny stick.

How did you become a resident dj at Icon? What brought you there in the first place?

It’s actually been years in the making. One of the owners always really enjoyed my sets, and constantly compares me to Danny Tenaglia, who is my biggest influence so that’s the biggest complement anyone can give me. Since the first time he heard me, he always said, “When I open up my next club, you are going to be my resident.” The rest is history.

You're a native New Yorker, so you should know the score by now. Grew up in Brooklyn (where I currently live). What was it like growing up there and what music did you grow up with? What dance-music influenced you in your youth?

Growing up in Brooklyn was great! The block parties, backyard bbq’s/pool parties, Coney Island, and the pizza… fooogettaboutit! Since it is such a melting pot I was exposed to many different cultures and music growing up. From freestyle played by my Aunt and Uncle’s in the late 80’s, to hip hop and alternative music in the early 90’s, to dance hall / metal / industrial / dance music in the late 90’s. It was in the late 90’s that I was first introduced to trance, dance and house music, I was a big fan of Daft Punk which led me to the clubs. Shortly after, I was out seven nights a week in Manhattan. Armed with my fake ID, I headed to Roxy, Tunnel, Sound Factory, Exit, Lime Light, Centro Fly, World and Vinyl. My biggest influences dance music-wise during this time were Peter Rauhofer, Johnny Vicious, Jonathan Peters, Tony Draper, Erick Morillo, Danny Tenaglia, Green Velvet, Hex Hector, Junior Vasquez.

You have some remix work upcoming from Sobel Promotions. Can you tell us anything about that?

Yes! I’m currently putting the finishing touches on a remix I did with my record label partner John Spinosa for KC and The Sunshine Band’s latest track “I’m Feeling You." John and I are also collaborating on two other remixes for Sobel Promotions: aremix to a remake of “Baker Street” by RexKwondo, and a new song by Toca's Miracle singer Coco Star called “AC/DC.”

What was it like to dj at Cielo, as you did very recently, as that chic spot in Manhattan's trendy meatpacking district has become something of a legend?

Amazing, every time! I’ve spun at Cielo more times than I can count and every time is like the first. The vibe in there is unreal, the crowd is always the best, the sound system is beyond amazing, and the DJ booth… Mama mia! Cielo has been open for a little over 10 years now, and for god reason, it’s, as they say, “where house music lives” in New York City. Aside from DJ’ing at Cielo I have spent some of my best nights on that dance floor as a patron.

What do you feel sets you apart from other club djs on the scene right now? What makes an Amoroso set special or distinctive?

My sound has been described as very New York but has been praised internationally too. I’ve done it all from day parties, to night, to afterhours, to gay, to straight, to upscale, to underground, and I have never gotten pigeonholed because I believe most people can relate to my sound; even those that don’t usually listen to house music have told me that they love the way I do it. Genre-wise, I blend new tracks with that classic house sound, upbeat, in your face, latin and retro, lots of drums, and most recently I’ve gone back to my roots playing primarily deep b/c. That’s the music that’s inspiring me most right now. I also love throwing in classics whenever I can because some are just timeless, go so well with the new deep house coming out, and bring back so many fond memories. I guess most of all what makes my sound distinctive is that it’s so hard to describe, but it’s most definitely “house.”

Steve, when you have time off and you can just kick back, what do you like to do?

I love spending time with my 10-month-old daughter, she’s the most important and precious thing in my life. When I’m not working on music or DJ’ing, I love just spending time with her, taking care of her, watching her grow and making her laugh/smile as much as possible.

I think people can have very stereotypical ideas of what the "swingin' life" of a club dj is like but I know it can often be a lot of blood, sweat and tears. What can you tell us, from your own experience, about leading that life? And what day jobs might you have had to take on to help support your passion and true calling?
I haven’t had a day job for six years now. It’s been a struggle but I believe every artist needs a starving moment to test his or her true passion. I’ve done the ramen noodle and peanut butter and jelly diet, lived in a rented room in Queens not knowing when my next gig (paycheck) is coming in. The last couple of years have been great for me, though. I’m not rich but I make enough money to pay my bills while doing what I love, and that’s all I ever wanted. I have bigger aspirations and work hard every day to make a better life for my family. Most people think it’s just a party lifestyle, but there is so much work behind the scenes. I love what I do. My biggest reward is making someone’s night, having people dance/smile/laugh/carry on. Going out dancing is a release. My job is to have all these hard-working people in the club forget about their day jobs, their worries and their stresses. My job is to make the people on the dance floor forget about all that and dance the night away. You can’t put a price tag on that, and it makes all my hard work behind the scenes worth it.

Your views on the club scene 2014?

It’s getting better and better every day! EDM is on its way out, and deep house is on it’s way in. The quality of music had been a little dull and redundant in the EDM scene for a while now, the fact that Daft Punk took the GRAMMYs this year shows that dance music is going in another direction and the club scene is evolving rapidly. Most of all for me, the new club scene is a breathe of fresh air! If your readers want to see the future of dance music that’s blowing up in the scene, I’d tell them to Google, “Disclosure - F For You ft. Mary J. Blige.”

Steve, thank you for your time and cooperation in doing this Q&A with me. Before we conclude, what might you still like to say to our readers around the world?

I believe great music saves the world, keep your ears open, try new things, you never know when that one song might change your life or how you view things. Music has changed my life in a positive way. I am humbled and blessed to be able to share my music with you, and the rest of the world. Thank you for taking the time to read this Q&A with Charles and I. God bless.