The AUDRA Catalog

Chris Brown’s F.A.M.E Tour Dates Announced

Chris Ongsueng — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:09:33 +0000

Official Press Release from

Chris Brown will kick off his F.A.M.E. North American tour on September 12 in Toronto, it was announced today. Chris’ fourth studio album, F.A.M.E, continues to produce chart-topping songs spawning three consecutive #1 singles (“Look At Me Now,” “Deuces,” and “No BS”) and earning him five BET Award wins. T-Pain, Kelly Rowland and Tyga will join Chris’ headlining tour.

“This tour will allow me to paint a picture musically,” commented Brown. “I want to bring a lot of energy and excitement to all the fans. It’s going to be a great show.”

It has been a big year for Chris. He dropped a new mixtape Boy In Detention on August 5^th that features producers Kevin McCall, David Banner, The Bizness and many more, along with cameos from Justin Bieber, Tyga, Dawn Richard, just to name a few. MTV.com says: “Is there anything that Chris Brown doesn’t do?”

MTV recently announced the first line-up of artists who will perform live at the “2011 MTV Video Music Awards” with this statement: “After his memorable debut at the 2007 VMAs, Chris Brown, who has multiple VMA nods, is ready to up his game and unleash another huge performance.” The “2011 MTV Video Music Awards” will air live from the Nokia Theater at L. A. Live in Los Angeles on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 9 p.m. (live ET/tape delayed PT.)

Billboard Magazine recently reported “When Chris Brown took the stage last month for the Today Show summer concert series, few expected that his performance would trigger a record turnout of a reported 18,000 plus fans for the largest turnout ever for the show.” The magazine also noted “Chris Brown posts three new titles on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop charts, marking only the third time the feat has been achieved since Billboard began using Nielson data to power the charts in 1992.” Chris is featured on Ace Hood’s “Body 2 Body” and Game’s “Pot of Gold,” along with his own “Wet The Bed” featuring Ludacris.

Brown is currently writing songs for Justin Bieber and Brandy’s forthcoming CDs and will be part of an ensemble cast for the romantic comedy film, “Think Like A Man” that is filming in Los Angeles this month.

Please visit www.planetchrisbrown.com, www.chrisbrownworld.com as well as www.mechnicaldummy.com for additional information and upcoming performances. Follow Twitter@ChrisBrown.

The following are The F.A.M.E. tour dates:

September 12 Molson Canadian Amphitheatre Toronto, Canada

September 14 Darien Lake Performing Arts Center Buffalo, NY

September 16 PNC Holmdel, NJ

September 17 Verizon Center Washington, DC

September 18 Joe Louis Arena Detroit, MI

September 21 CSU Cleveland, IL

September 23 Tinley Park Chicago, IL

September 24 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre St. Louis, MO

September 25 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Indianapolis, IN

September 28 1s Mariner Arena Baltimore, MD

September 30 Nassau Coliseum Uniondale, NY

October 1 Walnut Creek Amphitheatre Raleigh, NC

October 2 Lakewood Amphitheatre Atlanta, GA

October 7 1 800 ASK GARY Tampa, FL

October 8 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Charlotte, NC

October 9 Farm Bureau Amphitheatre Virginia Beach, VA

October 12 Sprint Center Kansas City, MO

October 14 GEXA Pavilion Dallas, TX

October 15 New Orleans Arena New Orleans, LA

October 16 Woodlands Houston, TX

October 18 Ashley Pavilion Phoenix, AZ

October 20 Staples Center Los Angeles, CA

October 22 Sleep Train Concord Oakland, CA

October 23 Sleep Train Amphitheatre Sacramento, CA

October 26 Fed Ex Forum Memphis, TN

October 28 Wells Fargo Arena Philadelphia, PA

October 29 Consol Energy Center Pittsburgh, PA

October 30 XL Center Hartford, CT

The Intern Queen Party

Chris Ongsueng — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 21:23:47 +0000

This post was written by guest writer, blogger, and intern, Elysia Mann of Fashion Fille

For college students, intern talk is just as frequent as mentions of a beer run or complaints about backward-thinking professors. No one can get anywhere without piling on the short-term jobs and it seems that the more internships we complete, the better.

At least that’s what the Intern Queen’s philosophy is. Lauren Berger had 15 internships in college, after which she launched her very own start-up in 2008, Intern Queen, Inc., with the help of an investor who truly believed in her. Now that her brand is established, she works with employers across the country to help students land their dream internships, as well as speaking to high school and college students about her experiences. On August 2nd, 2011, the first-ever Intern Queen Party, held at New York City’s newest hot spot, The 404 and sponsored by Wet Feet, gave interns from the area and all over a chance to connect, network, and meet Lauren, as well as participate in a Q&A panel with several representatives from powerful companies like Us Weekly, Clear Channel, McGraw Hill, College Humor, CBS, Teen Vogue, Oscar de la Renta, and Marvel, who provided wise and practical advice for would-be interns to get hired and stand out.

Being a hard-working intern myself, I, of course, attended the party. I wanted to learn more about what the Intern Queen was really all about. The venue was trendy, cool, fun, and full–Full of so many interns! So many young students trying so hard to just get their foot in the door, to make a decent and memorable impression that could hopefully lead to a paid position in the future. An odd twist (which might be explained simply by the word “Queen” in the event title) was that out of all of these attendees, only a handful of them were males. I spoke to one boy who was escorting his friend and had no internship experience of his own. Hopefully after this event, he will have found one. There were two guys from France who were interning at the United Nations and said they came for two reasons: they were curious about the line wrapping around the block and saw the word “intern” on the sign past the line and decided to join in on the fun.

After Lauren struggled to keep all of the guests quiet through the informative panel (since it’s always hard to calm a group of young people), I had the chance for some one-on-one interview with the Intern Queen herself, who also mentioned how “stoked” she was by the successful turnout of the event. Below are some gems she’d like to share:

What’s your favorite part about being the Intern Queen:

“I get to wake up everyday and do what I love to do: talk to students about internships.”

What would you tell someone who is curious about the unpaid intern debate?

“I would tell them to talk to an unpaid intern and hear about the great experiences these students are having.”

If you could change one thing about your college experience, what would it be?

“Make the most of it; join every club. I didn’t join as many clubs and groups as I should have. It’s a great way to get experience.”

What’s the best part about having a job as opposed to an internship?

“You get to put all of the practical experience you learn as an intern to use! And you get paid.”

What did you learn as an intern that you value the most?

“Just being in the environment and learning how to act like a professional and be detail-oriented.”

You can also keep up with the Intern Queen via Twitter and Facebook. She also posts internship openings and advice on her blog.

All images are from The Blaq Group. Thanks to Alyson Campbell of AMP3 PR for having me and The A.U.D.R.A Catalog at this event.

Kelly Rowland Album Release Party

Vallene Henderson — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 06:31:14 +0000

Former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland celebrated the release of her 3rd solo studio album, Here I Am last week in NYC. The small private affair held at the Standard Hotel & sponsored by Moet attracted many industry insiders & friends to Rowland. In attendance was Estelle, Michelle Williams, Big Sean, Beyonce, R & B singer Joe, Andre Harell, Kevin Liles, Terrence J, Dee & Ricky, Jessica White, Adrienne Bailon & Tika Sumpter

3rd Annual Madden NFL 12 Pigskin Pro-Am Pre Party

Vallene Henderson — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 20:15:49 +0000

Last Night EA Sports hosted a pre party for the third annual Madden NFL 12 Pigskin Pro-Am at Bryant Park Grill. EA Sports allowed The AUDRA Catalog to get a sneak peak at the new Madden 12 game in addition to having the opportunity to preview the game and speak with the games development team. Set to release August 30th, this edition holds true to the games crown of being the top pro football game. Madden 12 holds true to its legacy featuring insane graphics, all 32 teams, players and stadiums.

EA Sports teamed with top NFL alumni & celebrities for a fun competitive game of flag football. But the night before the game, was the time for everyone to let loose and party. This star studded party was the appetizer to the main event taken place the next day.

Guest and participants partied, mingled and enjoyed dinner provided by Bryant Park Grill. Those in attendance were Legendary NFL alumni,Dan Marino, Jerry Rice, Barry Sanders and Ronnie Lott, Hershel Walker, Micheal Irvin and Micheal Strahan. Also in attendance were Hollywood celebrities Maria Menounos, Chuck star, Ryan McPartlin, Criminal Minds star, Rachel Nichols and Heroes actress Elisabeth Rohms.

The EA SPORTS Madden NFL 12 Pigskin Pro-Am will air on NBC on Sunday, August 28 at 7:00 pm EST preceding the Oakland Raiders hosting the New Orleans Saints (NBC, 8:00 pm EST) preseason match-up on Sunday Night Football.

Women’s Mafia Fashionable Friday Gifting Event

Chris Ongsueng — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:47:15 +0000

Last Friday, July 22nd, 2011, Marcy Clark and Women’s Mafia hosted their first ever press only Fashionable Friday Gifting Event at the famous Arrojo Studio in lower Manhatan. That’s right, as in THE NICK ARROJO from “What Not To Wear” acclaim. Arrojo, whose name is associated with sleek and sexy cuts, phenomenal products, and as a leading educator in cosmetology and hair styling, opened up his spacious and modern studio to a select group of writers and bloggers, including the always fabulous members of the NYC Fashion Bloggers Meetup Group (whose key organizers aided in the actualization of the event). Also in attendance was Steve Marinaro– TheSalonGuy and members of the Women’s Mafia media partner, ASTONISH Magazine, who signed up many bloggers to become a part of their new ASTONISHBloggerati program. All the guests were treated to some pampering that included professional stylists who performed hair makeovers and makeup artists doing touch-ups. A delicious spread of meats, cheeses, and vegetables were laid out and refreshing Italian lemonades were served. An editorial white backdrop and fun props were provided by the enterprising photo sensation created by David Christiansen, fittingly named, Pop-Up Studio. Guests were encouraged to pose for photos that were instantly viewable on a monitor and readily available for download the next day.

The jewelry world’s rising star, J. Rudy Lewis, showcased his latest collection of handcrafted leather and metal jewelry. His exquisite designs can be described as “raw beauty,” incorporating details such as vulture head cuff clasps and rough rose cut diamonds into his remarkably striking pieces. His unique blend of history, archeology, and rock and roll have already caught the eye of many a stylist, magazine, and even the Princess Ameerah of the Saudi Arabian Royal family. Attendees were lucky enough to pick out a piece to not only pose and take pictures with, but to take home as well.

Soon after, author and beauty industry expert, Lora Condon regaled everyone with a few excerpts from her tell-all book, Spa Wars: The Ugly Truth About the Beauty Industry. Condon has been an esthetician, make-up artist, and a beauty industry consultant for well over 15 years. She’s also been dubbed as “The Lash Doctor” due to her superb skill in applying eyelash extensions. A few lucky guests who were extra punctual were given the voluminous “come hither” lash treatment by Condon. Spa Wars is an anecdotal account of all the funny, revelatory, heart-wrenching, and often disgusting things that occur behind the scenes of your favorite spas. The fun-spirited gal also took the time to sign copies of her book and pose for pictures with many of the bloggers in attendance.

When the reading and book signing was over, it was time for more photos. Pop-Up Studio’s props were brought out and fully utilized. All in all, a fun and definitely a beautiful time was had by all!

Remy Martin V Launch w/ Performance by Robin Thicke

Vallene Henderson — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 23:57:47 +0000

Stars Come out to Celebrate the National Debut of Rémy Martin V with special performance by Robin Thicke

Last night downtown met uptown as stars came out to celebrate the national launch of Rémy Martin’s first ever clear spirit – Rémy Martin V at LAVO NYC with aspecial performance by Robin Thicke. Celebrities including supermodel Jessica White, “Gossip Girl” star and actress Tika Sumpter, male supermodel and NYC man-about-town Tyson Beckford, “Jumping The Broom” star and actor Laz Alonso, Real Housewife of New York Cindy Barshop, Latin pop star Kat Deluna, the new face of Ralph Lauren Chris Collins and many others partied the evening away as celebrity DJ, DJ KISS energized the night.

Tika Sumpter was overheard saying she is “extremely excited to finally taste Rémy V” while Laz Alonso commented on how Remy Martin V and Robin Thicke are such a “classy partnership for a brand with such a great heritage”. Jessica White was thrilled to see Robin perform and mentioned how she was in his music video for the hit song “The Sweetest Love”.

Guests sipped on inventive Remy V cocktails including the C’est La V and Tres Chic while enjoying an exclusive performance by Robin Thicke. Robin got the crowd pumped up as he sang “Magic”, “Shakin it for Daddy” and “Lost Without You”. Pausing in-between songs he yelled to the crowd, “Took a few sips of Rémy Martin V and I started walking like Denzel Washington. That’s just what it does to you. Rémy Martin V makes you smooth.” The crowd concurred as guests danced way past the official end time of the celebration.

Photo Credit: Theo Vargo (Wire Image)

IN CASE YOU MISSED HIS INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE: CHRIS BROWN PERFORMS ON THE TODAY SHOW

Vallene Henderson — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 21:14:27 +0000

Chris Brown shut the Today Show DOWN to a crowd of an estimated 18,000 fans. This concert turned out to be the biggest concert the Today Show produced. It was so big that the NYPD had to shut down 48th & 49th street to vehicular traffic. Check out his latest hits performed off his latest album F.A.M.E available now.

“Forever”

“She Ain’t You”

“Yeah 3X”

“I Can Transform Ya” Medley

Carmelo Anthony ‘Steps Up His Game’ With Move to New York

Heather Brooks — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 07:34:20 +0000

New York was lucky to get Carmelo Anthony as a new member of the New York Knicks and as a bright thread in the fabric of Manhattan, but ‘Melo also owes his new found “game” to the Big City. His move from Denver to the Big Apple has been a good one, but nevertheless full of new challenges on the court, at home, and in business.

I had the opportunity to interview Carmelo Anthony at his photo shoot for his new campaign for Ultra Sheen Men’s Grooming Products Line by Johnson Product Company (“JPC”). Through the promotion of this product, Anthony is telling men all over the world to “Step Up Your Game.” This motto couldn’t be a more perfect fit for the NBA star, because he admits that he, himself, needed to step up his game. And by coming to New York City, he is taking a step in the right direction. Anthony won the 2003 national championship with Syracuse University and was drafted third overall later that year to the Denver Nuggets. Despite immediately putting up impressive numbers, he never was able to fully enter the spotlight in such a small market city; but that all changed when he was traded to the New York Knicks. ‘Melo knows he elevated himself “actually just by coming here, like coming to New York. . . Ya know, performing on the court – stepping my game up. Signing on to be the spokesperson for Johnson Products – step my game up.”

Anthony’s deal with JPC is for the long haul where he has real incentive in the success of the product. It is a testament to the type of business he wants to do in this new stage of his career. Anthony admits that he could have done a short-term endorsement for the Ultra Sheen product, but that afterwards he would have been “free again. [He] wanted something he could say in ten years from now [he] was a part of. [That he] helped build [the Ultra Sheen] brand.” Anthony wants to have a real connection to his business endeavors, which to him, is a sign of stepping his game up.

This mentality applies to what Anthony wants to achieve on the court as well. Aside from the incentive to move back to the east coast where he grew up, ‘Melo wants to create a basketball powerhouse in New York to rival the already successful Big 3 of the Miami Heat in South Beach (LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh). Amar’e Stoudemire and Anthony are the foundation of a potential trio, which the Knicks hope will be completed in the 2012 free agency market (when players with expired contracts can sign with a new franchise).

Even though ‘Melo is close friends with the Heat’s Big 3 and he is trying to duplicate their success, when I asked him if he was rooting for his boys on the Miami Heat to win the 2011 NBA title he gave me a real athlete’s response: “[He] can’t root for anyone [he] competes against.” Spoken like a true NBA basketball player ready for a run for the title in the 2011-12 season where he can lead the Knicks to Stepping Their Game Up.

Despite the new additions to the New York Knicks’ roster, the organization recently announced that the team’s President and General Manager Donnie Walsh is leaving (he will serve the 2011-12 season as a consultant). Walsh played a big part in bringing Anthony from the Denver Nuggets to the New York Knicks, which many say was a bad deal as the Knicks paid a steep price to get Anthony. When I asked Anthony how he felt about the change in management he admitted that he “was starting to build a relationship with [Donnie Walsh] from a player to GM stand point” and that “he [was] glad to hear that [Walsh] will still be a part of all that is going on.” But the truth is, the architect that brought ‘Melo (and Amar’e) to New York is now on his way out. So, I can’t help but ask: even if ‘Melo steps his game up, are the Knicks as an organization going to have what it takes to bring championships back to New York?

The jury is still out as Anthony continues to pave his way – on and off the court. The move for Anthony from Denver to NYC has been a big one full of fortuitous and unforeseen professional and social advancements. But one thing is clear and expected: as ‘Melo sends the Ultra Sheen message of “Step Your Game Up” out to fans, he will also be taking the slogan to heart.

This article was written by one of our contibuting writing, Heather Brooks of Sportsgirl. Sportsgirl is a concept designed to attract women to sports by relating sports headlines to current topics in entertainment, fashion, gossip, and politics. It is perfect for someone looking for a fun tidbit to use in a business meeting, with his or her kids, or even on a hot date! You can find Heather’s blog at ilovesportsgirl.com – Just Enough Sports to Make you Dangerous.

All photography was contributed by Twah Dougherty at www.styleartlife.com – The Art of Styling Life Through Photographs.