What it do with Lue

By Lue Dowdy

LUE, LIVE ON AIR IS WHAT IT DO!

Starting SUNDAY, November 14, catch ya’ girl live on ‘Empire Talks Back’ with Mr. Wallace Allen for my segment of “What it Do with LUE” A PLATFORM SUPPORTING AND PROMOTING ASPIRING ARTIST’S.

I’ll be interviewing local artists and updating you on entertainment happenings in the Inland Empire. The show starts at 10:00 am. Make sure you tune in for the FUN! Checkout the website for updates at www.lueproductions.org. You can checkout who’ll be up next for an interview on the Facebook page under “What It Do with Lue” or “The Westside Story Newspaper”.

Remember every other Sunday! I’ll be giving away tickets to shows and more. If you’re an artist and would like to be on the show text me at 909.567.1000. Make sure you stay safe and give somebody a hug today. L’s!!!

By Lue Dowdy, LUE Productions

La-Kyshia is a ball of beautiful energy.

La-Kyshia N. Reddick was born on May 13 in Fontana, California. Currently, she resides in Highland, California. She is inspired by her parents and grandparents who have supported everything that she has done since she was little. The support and love have given her the green light to run the race and become a force to reckon with in the world of dance.

She’s always been an honor-roll student and was placed on the Dean’s Lists at San Bernardino Valley College. She began performing in preschool; her first dance performance was Salsa, and Boy George, ” I tumble for ya”.

La-Kyshia has always loved to work-out at home. Jane Fonda and her dad were her inspirations. She was part of Jr Mission, Usher, Choir, worked in the nursery and praise dance team at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church as a youth- teen.

She has modeled hairstyles for a beauty salon, and has been part of the Coronoid Girls as Eastern Star in San Bernardino. She participated in Talent shows at Fresno State University as she attended Grand Session for the youth supervised by Eastern Stars yearly until the age of 17. She attended San Bernardino Valley College as a Liberal Arts/Arts/Graphic Design major. Taking jazz dance classes there is when her hobby became a career.

La-Kyisha began dancing with multiple choreographers doing different styles of dance such as Jazz, Modern, Caribbean, Brazilian, West African, Afro-Jazz, Hip Hop, and Praise Dance. During this time, she also modeled for WNOPhotography.

La-Kyshia’s hobbies are: organizing, Dancing, cleaning, creating looks: Fashion, nails, and interior design, museums, art, festivals, gathering with family, impacting children, working-out, having a good time everywhere she goes, teaching zumba/dance at the gym, fashion shows, and reading.

She has always been a lead/supervisor at jobs that she has had from past to present.  She enjoys everything she does in her career. She works for the county and has been running successful after-school programs for the past 18 years at 12 different schools for CAPS in San Bernardino. She is a huge impact in her program to her leaders and students.

La-Kyisha has taught dance, fashion design, fitness, sign language and art to students. She has run one of the biggest after-school programs since 2018. She has been able to show students that they can show off their talents right here in San Bernardino, by performing at Cal State University, Arroyo, and other schools and theaters. She is currently a coordinator at Paakuma’ helping to build strong leaders and expanding the children’s education. She currently is attending school in San Bernardino County.

La-Kyisha lets her work speak for itself. She considers herself as a “canvas on a daily”. Make sure you follow THE DANCE PRINCESS on all social media platforms. Until next week. L’s!

By Lue Dowdy, LUE Productions

Are you between the ages of 6 and 25? The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce-Inland Cites East Chapter is looking for young folks with businesses that would like to showcase their products at the SCBCC-Inland Cities East monthly business mixer on Monday, October 25^.  

The goal is to support, encourage, and uplift our future business owners. The mixer is FREE and will be held in the City of San Bernardino and is open to all. Space is limited so please register soon by visiting the website at www.blackchamberofcommerce.org or texting 909.567.1000. Participants will be advertised on final mixer flyer. 

Set up time is 4 p.m. and breakdown is at 8 p.m. Prepare for fun, networking, and resource information. Remember it takes a VILLAGE! Until next week, L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

What up IE and everybody!? As we all know that our youth is the future. This week in my column, I’d like to highlight DJ Jahcory. He is a very talent young man with a bright future in the world of entertainment. I’ve had the pleasure of booking him for one of our Lue Productions youth events. The kids and adults loved him! He has major skills and a dope play set. He took a hobby and made it into a business. Read more about him below on how he got started.

Jahcory Williams is a 17-year -old DJ. He was born in San Bernardino and was raised all throughout the Inland Empire. He has been DJing since the 7th grade. His mother connected him with DJ Demico for lessons. His parents bought all of his equipment and DJ Demico came over and had sessions with him and his friend Kyran, teaching them how to DJ and how to do it well if they wanted to make a career out of it. Jahcory found it was a good legal way for them as young men to make some good money.

DJing is not the only talent that this young man has, he can also dance. Jahcory has been dancing since he came out of the womb and could never stop. From a young boy, he would just sit there watching dance videos and music videos of people dancing and trying to recreate the dances, to now a young man doing his own thing trying to perfect his craft and make something of himself dancing as well. Getting tens of thousands of likes on Tik-Tok.

He is also a twin. He has a twin sister Jordin, who is also his manager. He loves spending time with his family and people he loves. This is only the beginning of what he can do, and you will see more of him soon.

Welp that’s it that’s all ya’ll! Until next week, L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

How many of you like poetry or spoken word? I know I do. Freedom of speech and expression is important especially for poets and spoken word artists. I love the word play and how the artist’s makes you feel, like my girl Makeda Kumasi. Makeda has a way of pulling you in. 

I’ve had the pleasure of watching this Queen in action. Not only is she a poetess/spoken word artist but she’s also a dynamic dancer, singer, and actress. Wearing so many entertainment hats she still finds time to be a boss by running and overseeing her very own production company titled, ‘WE 3 PRODUCTIONS’. Her production company is community based and teaches cultural dance and music to the youth, young adults, ad elders within San Bernardino and beyond.

Recently dropping her first Spoken Word Album “A SPOKEN WORD EXPERIENCE”, Makeda is making a name for herself globally. This project in my opinion is ‘THE TRUTH’. On the album you’ll hear heartfelt tacks like “Electricity’, ‘Fly Away Bird’, ‘Mother’, and ‘We Return’ along with 7 other amazing tracks. Performing professionally for years all over Southern California, other States, and Countries many have been touched by her performances. Make sure you get the album, which can be accessed on Spotify. 

Studies have shown that the teaching of Spoken Word  and Poetry is a great way to help students with cortical thinking and it teaches them how to use their powerful voices. Now a days you’ll be able to find poetry slams and spoken word contests located all over the word. It’s also therapeutic and a stress reliver. If you ever feel upset or stressed don’t be afraid to take them words to paper, pick up the pen.

Catch Makeda Kumasi’s next event the ‘Urban Djali Tour’ on YouTube live Friday 9/10. Link reservation through Eventbrite Online Events. Remember it’s ya girl LUE and this is WHAT IT DO, Until next week SNAP, SNAP! 

By Lue Dowdy, LUE Productions

Smart, talented, gifted, and more: Jazzlynn Woods is a youth that brings along a light and positive energy when she enters a room, but please do not get it twisted because when she hits the floor for competition, the light turns into a flame, and that positive energy becomes competitive energy but still positive. I love, love, love her spirit, so let’s hear it! Below is more about this amazing young lady.

Jazzlynn Woods is 19 years old and is the daughter of Lawrence and Kimberly Woods. She has two older brothers, Tobias VanBuren Jr., 32, and Charles Smith 22. Jazzy has been a resident of the City of Rialto for her whole life. She graduated from Kucera Middle School with honors and was a Kucera cheerleader and also participated in a program at Kucera Middle School called ‘Shine Bright like a Diamond”, a Mentoring After School Program designed for girls. 

Jazzlynn graduated from middle school and the SBLD Mentoring program where she became a ‘Diva Ambassador’ of the program helping other young ladies. Jazzlynn attended Carter High School in Rialto. In her freshman year she was on the CHS Cheer Team. In her Senior year she participated in the nursing program.

Jazzy has been a cheerleader the age of five. She was a professional cheerleader for ‘California All Stars Cheer’ in Ontario and has won two National Champion Rings. She also cheered at ‘Prime Cheer and Stunt’ in Corona for two seasons as a flyer. Now that she has aged out to cheer, she is now training to become a cheer coach. Jazzy wants to become a registered nurse and is planning on attending a CNA school to become a CNA this summer. She will then attend a four-year college to become a registered nurse. 

Currently, Jazzy is helping her mom with her business Fabulous Chic Boutique in San Bernardino and working part time at Youthbuild in San Bernardino as she waits to attend her CNA school. 

I’m extremely proud of this young lady and all her accomplishments thus far. Jazzy is definitely a firework and someone to watch for. Until next week Folks. L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

I love social media and how it allows you to connect with so many different people from different walks of life. As I was scrolling on Facebook, I came across a post of a young rap artist that is on FIRE. Not only is he a little cutie, but he’s a talented cutie with a good head on his shoulders and an amazing support team.

Born and raised In Southern California, Izayah Anthony Guerrero, affectionately known as Zay Is a 9-year-old featured star.  He started making a name for himself at 4 years old, being in multiple fashion shows and having roles in a handful of music videos from various famous music artists.  From there, he found himself In a few commercials. His love for music and acting has made this young little guy very goal-oriented and his ability to driving towards his dreams Has shown in his recent success.

Zay is 1 of 5 brothers. And through good and bad, this family has always stuck together. Given his 3 older brothers Izayah Immediately fell in love with sports.  He started playing football at the age of 7, In which he played QB and CB. The team was one game from winning the Super Bowl as they finish the season 8-2. Football taught Izayah discipline and how to work hard and never to give up. He took those tools with him in his career and shows it not only during performances but also with how hard he practices his craft.

Izayah, artistically known as Yung Zay, started his rap career from his school talent show where he stole the show! His parents knew then that he was ready for the big stage. At the age of 8 he recorded the song called “We Are the Future,” Which turned heads locally in Southern California. It also reached the Bay Area, where he received an NAACP award. He also performed “We Are the Future” in front of a packed house at the 5th Annual Film Awards Show.

Izayah recently recorded a single called “DONT PLAY” and a single called “LONG HAIR DON’T CARE”, Available on all major platforms. Soon to come is his highly anticipated EP titled “It’s Just Me” Which will be released soon. Izayah has shown his ability to work a crowd but has the aspirations to succeed behind the camera. We promise this little guy is upcoming and ready for anything. I feel sorry for his parent’s and security team because trust the little girls are going to go bananas over Zay. Make sure you checkout his Instagram @Itsyaboyyungzay11

Until next time stay safe and get your COVID-19 Vaccination. L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

Reggie Webb is a man that wears many hats in this entertainment industry. He’s an emcee, ghost writer, media personality, and an author. 

Born and raised in Baltimore City, the edginess and grit of his hometown influenced his style of rap and entrepreneurial attitude. A few years ago, he released a project called, “A Mic & A Dream”. This project gained a lot of traction and caught the attention of music executive, Kevin Black. This led to Reggie signing a recording contract with a subsidiary of Universal Music Group. Unfortunately, nothing materialized from this deal because Reggie had to step away from his contractual obligations to attend to the health of his daughter. His daughter has sickle cell anemia and her crisis became so intense she was hospitalized for months at a time. 

Recently, Reggie stepped back into the industry and, his buzzed resurfaced when he created a movement called, “Red Cup Nights”. This movement consist of feel good party music, merchandise for men and women, and a signature red cup backpack. He’s also co-owner of Hip Hop on Phonics, a company that creates educational Hip Hop songs and books that teach children a variety of things from different aspects of speech, math, and valuable everyday life lessons. 

In today’s industry you must be multi-faceted to stay ahead of the curve and Reggie Webb has his hands in many pots cooking up great content for the masses to enjoy. Make sure you check this talented artist out on all social media platforms. With my RED CUP in hand and waiving it in the air like I just don’t care, I’ll catch you all next week. L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

What up I.E., and everybody! I’m a firm believer that without music the world would be blah! Allow me to introduce a good friend of mine, the talented Merrion Morey. I’ve had the honor of working with Mr. Morey in the past on a community music project. I love his work ethic and commitment to his craft.

Music has been part of Mr. Morey’s DNA ever since he learned how to sing in church. He enjoys writing music, composing songs, and to some degree, collaborating with other artists. Having the pleasure of meeting some of the industries poignant artists and composers throughout the years, he has made a well know presence in the music industry. Mr. Morey has shared the stage with notables such as: Stanley Clarke, Jeffrey Osborne, and he has also sung for The Delfonics Review.

Giving back to the community is very important to Mr. Morey. He has a passion for youth. Utilizing his musical gift, he was able to contribute to a youth boxing program by creating an album in which a portion of the proceeds was used to help provide equipment for their gym.

He continues to write and compose songs as an outward expression of his inner thoughts. Mr. Morey’s music can be accessed through all music stream outlets as well as social media. He’s also available for booking! So, the next time you need a smooth R&B singer please think about Merrion Morey. Until next week ya’ll, L’s!

By Lue Dowdy

In honor of National Women’s Month, the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce-Inland Cities East Chapter Monthly Mixer presents – Female Black Entrepreneurs – (‘Oh Yes, WE CAN’) a panel discussion of 7 beautiful and talented Black Female Entrepreneurs! The panel discussion will be held via Zoom on Monday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Female entrepreneurship has steadily increased since the 21st century and women business owners are defiantly in the mix.  How does that look for woman of color? Where do BLACK WOMAN ENTREPRENEURS FIT IN? The panel will be sharing their business experiences and speaking on the following topics: How to start your own business, what type of business to start, How and where to seek to help, and Some of the struggles Black Woman entrepreneurs endured!

The ladies on the panel consist of:  Shari’ah Hrdie – Business GURU; LaToya Tillett – The Broker; Keyona Dawson – The Fashion Designer; Vonshai VonCierge – The Chef; Tania; HairCare DivaAtlas – The Shop Owner; and Kimberly Woods – The Print Shop. In addition to the panelist, there will also be a special musical performance by Merrion Morey.

Make sure to register for this fun, entertaining but informative business networking mixer highlighting female Black entrepreneurs. Registration link can be found on the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce website and Facebook page.