BLEU Magazine‘s cover release party was held Feb. 11, 2014, at downtown Manhattan’s STK Steakhouse with actor and comedian Nick Cannon, who’s on their March cover. The founder and creator of BLEU, Devon Christopher Johnson, wants to honor those in the African American community who are striving toward greatness.
Johnson made it clear that the recognition is not only for those who have “a job or a dream,” but also those who are willing to work to realize those lofty ambitions. “Not just [lying] in bed dreaming but pursuing your dreams and going for it,” explained Johnson
Cannon will be featured in a series titled “A Few Good Men.” According to BLEU‘s public relations representative, Cannon was picked with the theme of “open doors” since he has made strides to bring more people into the music and film industry.
Deric Battiste, also known as DJ D-Wrek, is a testament to Cannon’s commitment to opening doors. D-Wrek started out on Cannon’s “Wild ‘N Out” in 2006 and went on to work on his own show, “Cheap Date,” in 2013.
At the Hennessy V.S-sponsored party and dinner, D-Wrek was one notable among stylists, bloggers, and investors such as Kevin McGovern of The Water Initiative, and musical artists such as DASH. The event was in collaboration with the marketing agency, Curators of Defining Experiences. It was also sponsored by Nivea Men and Flat Fitty. Fashion blogger Chelsea March, Sharon Carpenter of “The Gossip Game” and others were among those partying at STK in celebration of Cannon’s accomplishments and in recognition of his work.
But for Cannon, the title of a “good man” comes with a small but grand criteria.
“Ultimately we all have our things, our quips and our hangups because nobody’s perfect but it’s that foundation and that core and that soul from the inside,” said Cannon.
–victoria johnson
