The Jukeboxx

N/A: Choosing you could make you less accessible to someone else and that’s OK by Maven Lee

Access is a privilege not a right. When your peace is on the line you have the authority to protect it.
– Maven Lee

Sometimes our entire life revolves around supporting others. There are others who live life at the mercy of other peoples opinions. At times you might be that person who feels obligated to always respond. Some of us are those people who feel like our life requires that we are always available. And then there are those who believe their life can only get better if someone else helps them. We are at times conditioned to believe dependency will always be there to rescue us.
I understand all those people. Hell I was one of those people. Until I had no other choice but to be someone different. You see this wisdom was staring me in the face. Time and time again there were people in my life who is showing me what it meant to choose them.

Admittedly it was hard to see it sometimes. Choosing you sometimes will make you the villain in someone else’s story. That narrative made it hard for me to see that what they were doing was for them and less about hurting me. Now I know that might be hard for some people to understand. Yes some people in my life that choose them may never gain my love again or even my respect but they do get my understanding.

They keep my understanding because when I reached a crossroads in my life I understood that it was not only necessary but life or death that I CHOOSE ME!

I was going around in cycles. I was riding a bike in a never ending circle. And while I thought I knew who I was I really didn’t have time to see who I was becoming. I found myself feeling alone. And feeling alone wasn’t a new feeling, knowing was.

One day I woke up and realized people that I fell in love with moved on. Some of the folks I thought that did me wrong will never assume or even share accountability. And sometimes I was more toxic to myself then anybody else. It became clear to me that the world is moving without me. It was evident with a personality like mine nothing will change unless I make change intentional.

Days went by and I started to do things like turn off my phone. I went through my apps and decided which ones I really didn’t need. I’d let some folks reach out to me first. And you know those times where you always feel the need to respond… I didn’t.

These small changes left me with more time. And with that more time I was able to see things about myself that I loved, that I missed knowing exist, and that I needed to change or grow in.

Suddenly more life situations started to happen. In addition to the choices I made for myself life made choices for me too. As I reflect on at all I realize that choosing me saved my life.

There were some people who said things like you don’t call me anymore. And that made me realize they never called me. You don’t check on me. And then I realized they never checked on me. I noticed the amount of people that I neglected that actually showed up for me. The reality I imagined where I showed up for everyone was shattered. No I didn’t. Sometimes I didn’t show up for the people in my life that I acted so strong to mask their struggles or pain.

What’s understood is that some people understand your growth and some may not. And relationships have many purposes and many different timelines. We don’t always have to define how a relationship works around the way other people feel it should look like. Some relationships simply have expiration dates. Others have off days and vacations. Sometimes they get substitutes.

The people I share bonds with now have a much different tone than before. It’s one filled with compassion, understanding, and space. The freedom to be your whole self. The people I have in my space understand that we must be able to live our best personal lives to live beautiful lives with one another.

The more I chose me the more transparent and honest I became. This version of me has made it much easier to navigate relationships. This change has made my discernment of greater value. I feel in charge of my life because I Chose me.

“ME VS CORONAVIRUS” Maven Lee shares his COVID19 Experience: I got into a fight with “RONA” and won ! ….. At least I think ?

Here are 14 things I did to get better:

1. Using ORANGES

I did just about anything you could do with an orange outside of something that’s too inappropriate to share. I drink orange juice. I’d eat sliced oranges. After I ate the oranges I used the peels for steaming and tea.

2. Sea Moss Gel

Sea Moss can be used in a variety of ways. A couple times I found myself thinking it was that miracle water in those infomercials. I used sea moss gel in my water, my food, my teas, and even dabbed some on my face.

3. Black Seed Oil

So of course when you hear news like I have a deadly virus that’s attacking the world you panic. You try to find and also get told every remedy known to the world. You have to decipher through things to find the real deal. Well Black Seed Oil and its healing power aren’t new to the world. Dr. Sebi believed in its abilities. After hearing from a good friend who beat the virus and then a few others I went ahead and grabbed some. I took a teaspoon twice a day in the morning and at night.

4. Echinacea

Well no I didn’t actually use the flower but I did grab 100 capsules from the health supplement store. I took about 2 to 3 a day. Its believed that it strengthens your immune system.

5. Getting Fresh Air

I know, I know they say quarantine and lock away the key. Well I did… sort of. Everyone I heard from that successfully recovered in some way got fresh air. Some folks took an isolated walk in the park, sat on their porch, or if all else failed hung out their window for an hour or so. Every time I got fresh air it felt like the bricks I was feeling on my chest lifted.

6. Honey Ginger Tea

Tea, Tea, all types of Tea.. ginger, honey, peppermint, and lemon tea! Yes I was think of that one song.. You know Boys, Boys, all kinds of Boys? Come one you know that song. But no seriously tea was my bestie. I put everything in my teas. Lemon and orange peels. Cayenne pepper, sea moss gel, and even a little lime.

7. Using Lemons

I’ve never gulped down so many lemons in my life. I was popping those jokers down like candy. Usually I require a little sugar but nope .. they slide right on down this throat. Eating the lemons and sometimes the lemon peel to would instantly open my thought and give me relief. I would also indulge in lemonade, lemons in my tea, and lemon water ever so often.

8. Peppers

I became a baby pepper eater. I bought some dipping sauces and got to going. The small green ones, the yellows, the reds, all of them. I dabbed cayenne pepper in everything. Hot stuff has never bothered me so peppers is now a weekly part of my diet.

9. Green Fruits and Veggies

So a big thing happen with green all over it. I always enjoyed my veggies even as a kid but now … I’m going green. I ate every kind of green vegetable or fruit you could imagine. Rather raw or cooked I was eating down. This has continued into my regular diet moving forward in a much more significant way.

10. Singing

Well if you know me then you can guess this one was easy….Right? Well not exactly. You see I’ve been on a bit of a hiatus from music, until now that is. It took a few days but sure enough I was busted mini concerts in the shower daily. I failed at learning an instrument but hey I did sharpen these vocal chops. Using your lungs helps your lungs. While I still have an occasional rasp and breathiness in my voice, it’s still here!

11. Apple Cider Vinegar

Listen I’ve been taking a teaspoon if this since I was nine years old. My grandmother gave me “The Mother” for everything. Did it work for it all? I’m not sure but I did it. I will say it cleared my throat and gave comfort even if for a minute or two.

12. Turmeric

So Turmeric… I literally never could taste it honestly but it went in all of my food. I was taking a Turmeric capsule daily in the morning. It felt like it gave me an extra pep in my step. After taking it I felt a little happier than I was before.

13. Multivitamins

I honestly probably would have overdosed if these where some other kinds of pills. I was popping Vitamin C, D, and Zinc down like a found my addiction. I’m not telling you to do this I’m just being real.

14. Working Out

What can I say? I was already trying to get this body right. You know thick thighs and um never mind… shakes my head. It was easy for me to get into this. Of course we all don’t have at home gyms so I made it work. I ran up the stairs, I did push ups, sit ups, crunches, jumping jacks, and all that stuff. In the process I even earned my dance fitness and yoga instructor certifications. This thing tries to wear you out and you can’t let it beat you down. Do as much as your body allows unless it calls for an emergency sit your but down.

So in closing ….

These were the things that helped me through this scare yet honestly speaking profound experience. During this time I developed a new understanding of my value, life, and how to maximize your experience with it. I reconnected with old friends and distant relatives. Some folks were given resignations. Found peace with old enemies and owned up to my toxic vibrations I needed to release. I got focused and started to make things happen. Life is so unpredictable and the longer you wait to live it the more regret you may have waiting. So right now I’m still doing most of these things. I have my essential oils handy and water on deck.

Seinfeld actor and father of Ben Stiller, JERRY STILLER died early today.

In this Feb. 11, 2011, photo, Ben Stiller, left, and his father Jerry Stiller arrive at the Help Haiti benefit honoring Sean Penn hosted by the Stiller Foundation and The J/P Haitian Relief Organization, in New York. Comedian veteran Jerry Stiller, who launched his career opposite wife Anne Meara in the 1950s and reemerged four decades later as the hysterically high-strung Frank Costanza on the smash television show “Seinfeld,” died at 92, his son Ben Stiller announced Monday. (AP Photo/Charles Sykes, File)

92 year old Comedian and Actor Jerry Stiller, who launched his career with wife Anne Meara in the 50’s died today. Many folks remember him as the insanely funny Frank Costanza on the hit television show “Seinfeld.” Jerry is also the father of famed actor Ben Stiller.

4 Kings in Drag that will make you GAG! …. (In a Good Way)

Four Butch Queens in Drag Vogue performers you should know.
* in no particular order

4. Christian Elijah

Known as Legendary Alanah this handsome fella paved the way. He with others carried the Midwest banner all around the country. Alanah combated the stigma that drag is what I do not all I am. The drama and excitement of an Alanah battle is notorious. This BQUID performer will definitely make you GAG! (In a good way)

3. Karma Gucci

This multi talented king may be in the lineup with a couple veterans in the game but that doesn’t mean he’s no push over. When he transforms on the floor it’s like the beginning of a mortal kombat battle to the end. With charisma and eye catching personality Karma demands attention on the floor. A community advocate off the floor with sensational soulful voice this BQUID performer will definitely make you GAG! (In a good way)

2. Starr Revlon

Starr Revlon is undoubtably a household name. While there are many legends and Icons in the ball scene few if any have that “STARR” power. Yes we spelled it correctly. One of the most prolific storytellers ever to grace the floor. This fashion forward trailblazer sketched his name in ballroom in history. This dramatic BQUID performer will definitely make you GAG! (In a good way)

1. Felix J. Barrera

Known as Legendary Chloe Prodigy this steamy guy was a new standard. His vogue in and out of drag was a clean, dramatic, soft, cunt adventure. Making a statement city to city for his region, he like Alanah was another trailblazer. Aside from his beautiful to dashing good looks. Felix is an amazing make up artist that can bring out the best in you. This hot BQUID performer will definitely make you GAG! (In a good way)

BQUID?

It means butch queen up in drag. In the ballroom scene there is a category specific for butch queen up in drag performers. Guys like our king’s mentioned along with others like Legendary Tiny West, Makayla Lanvin, Legends Becky Revlon and Chi Chi Prodigy, Xapariis Ebony, and many more Cultivated this category and made it an essential part of ball culture. So who will we talk about in Part 2? Well you’ll just have to wait. But here’s a hint ” DRAMA” !

Catch another Drags Vogue ruler Makayla Lanvin on the new HBO Max series “LEGENDARY” May 27th

Maven Lee interviews HBO MAX’s new show “LEGENDARY” star Isla Ebony of Purple Crush and the House of Ebony

When and why did you start ballroom? I joined Ballroom in 2013. I started as an event promoter with Banjee Ball and it was a few months after throwing my first couple Balls (which were very pre-school Ballroom) that I got bit by the vogue bug.

What does ballroom bring to your life? Community. Purpose. I’ve been a music artist for a very long time, and the music industry was always lacking something, which is why I kept searching. I found it in Ballroom.

Your greatest life accomplishment?
In Life, creating my daughter. In Ballroom it was winning the 2017 Woman Voguer OTY in NY. The two are actually connected – I had set a goal post of winning a trophy in NY before getting pregnant. I had made my name traveling state to state walking OTA performance because at the time, other than in NY where all the Woman voguers resided, there were no Women’s performance categories. And I had some big wins. But when it came to NY, I was a last battle girl. I FINALLY won Grand Prize at the Ebony Ball in 2017 and got pregnant 4 days later. I was awarded Woman OTY the same week I announced my pregnancy.

What does the show Legendary mean to you?
For me Legendary is about the stories that are getting told. The people of Ballroom have so much to share about Love and Loss.

If you could give the whole world one message today what would it be?
Brand yourself. Figure out what it is that you LOVE to do and do it. And don’t get hung up on whether it makes you money or whether it manifests in the way you think it should manifest. If you are following your purpose the opportunities will surprise you.

How can we show you love?
Wow, this is a hard question to answer. Letting me know that I belong in Ballroom as a cisgendered white woman.

RAPID ROUND:

Favorite Voguer: Starr Revlon
Favorite Politician: Bernie Sanders
Fruit or Veggies : Raspberries
Favorite Movie : Desperately Seeking Susan
A pet peeve: Liars
Favorite song : Live to Tell by Madonna
MJ or Prince: Prince
A hidden talent: I’m a tap dancer!

CHECK LEGENDARY OUT MAY 27th on HBO MAX !

Legendary BETTY WRIGHT passes away just 1 day after the Iconic Singer Little Richard

Wright is a Grammy winning legendary soul and R&B singer, songwriter and backing vocalist, who rose to fame in the 1970s with Numerous hits most notably the “Clean Up Woman” and R&B classics such as “Tonight Is the Night” and “No Pain, (No Gain)”.

She is also well know for her use of whistle register long before Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, and Chante Moore.

Not long ago iconic singer Chaka Khan sent a request for prayers for her Sister music.

She has worked with many artist of the years and most recently folks may remember her from vocal coaching on Making The Band, working with Lil Wayne or even her music that was sampled by Mary J Blige’s hit Real Love.

The Juice with Maven Lee | Do you have JELLY? Thanks please ! The New Orleans gem Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph of Tank the Bangas & Galactic

Many of us know this bubbling brown musical queen but for those that just might be out of this whimsical loop let us introduce you. Her name is Anjelika Joseph aka Ms. Jelly if you nasty. This New Orleans native is a whole vibe of her own. The kind of vibe that you want to feel. Jelly is a supporting vocalist and member of the GRAMMY nominated super group TANK and the Bangas. And she is also an ear-gasmic featured vocalist with GALACTIC, the legendary Nola funk band that toured the world with Macy Gray.

Jelly brings a noticeable energy to the stage that is hard to keep your eyes off of. Her eclectic riffs and runs and creative adlibs take you on a journey into wonderland. She’s traveled the world sharing her voice, and charisma but she never leaves the heart of New Orleans behind.

We love to see her anytime she’s on the stage and just like most folks that simply get a glimpse into her musical adventures you’ll be like everyone else waiting for any project with her on it to drop.

Jelly is a gem. A humble presence of artistic excellence. When you see artist this creative, with a genuine spirit to share their emotions raw and unfiltered you must appreciate it. You have to treasure that there is still authentic singers in the world. Shout out to Miss Jelly if you’re nasty.

BADU & JILL bring back the power of NEO SOUL with the most viewed “Verzuz” battle! Over 700,000 | Maven Lee

If you missed last nights iconic “VERZUZ” battle you missed an unforgettable moment for music and it’s unwavering power. A combination of music, love, kindness, and respect was on full display.

These two soul queens brought back the essence of your soul. Reminding us of an era that should never be forgotten. And judging from the amount of views probably needs a return.

This battle produced over 700,000 viewers thus making it the most viewed battle yet. Even surpassing Baby Face versus Teddy Riley.

We saw celebrities like Adele, Missy Elliott, Janelle Monae, Stephanie Mills, Michelle Obama, Detox, Tyrese, Nas, Taraji P Henson, Tank Ball, Queen Latifah, Snoop Dogg, even Oprah Winfrey chiming in.

The nostalgia and the clear evidence that these women have impacted all generations was beautiful.

The admiration and compassion they displayed is the compass in which we all need to follow.

But who am I’m just Maven Lee … you get it though .

6 Music Artist to Watch : May Edition

AVEHRE

This emerging R&B sensation from Chicago hit 2020 hard with his new single “No Purpose” . This song is an anthem for those relationship seekers tired of playing childish games. It’s clear why the legendary Gladys Knight had him on supporting vocals. Avehre’s feel good soulful voice mixed with his relevant new era swag make him a necessary addition to everyone’s playlist.

Check Him out : https://linktr.ee/avehre

BYNK BRAVADO

This creative mastermind feels like the long lost son of Icon Missy Elliott. Bravado is a blend of Hip-Hop, R&B, acoustic soul, trap, and more. He debuted his new EP “Head Voice” just weeks ago and his songs “Tired” & “Homegoing” caught our eye.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/head-voice-ep/1508513471

MAXA

Nothing can describe Maxa more than a “Vibe”. She is the music child of Badu and Michael. Maxa is a bridge between music worlds. Her soulful pop sound is an unbelievable vibe that can adapt to almost any situation. Her single from last year “Fever” will get you through a work filled day. Though her album was halted by the virus that shall not be named she is sure a diva to be on your rader.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/fever-single/1492707510

RINNY

Often times music these days can miss the emotional mark. We hear music that fails to speak to our raw emotions .. lacking substance and reality. Well Rinny with simplicity, clean vocals, and head nodding soulful beats brings us just what we need. His new self-titled EP Rinny Vol.1 is a good choice for your social distancing playlist.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/rinny-vol-1-ep/1511056070

TONINA

Its hard to put Tonina in a box. The truth is she doesn’t need to be. She is a multi-instrumentalist and vocal masterpiece. Her voice is angelic yet sultry. She pulls you in and makes you dance to the movements of her voice. If it isn’t enough that her voice is one of a kind… she sings in more than one language. Check out two songs from her we really love!

https://music.apple.com/us/album/mercy/1462550230?i=1462550240

https://music.apple.com/us/album/papaya-single/1506268618

LAKES THE VOICE

Lakes the Voice is a refreshing reminder that good R&B still exist. This soulful crooner can make the room melt. Now if being a handsome guy who can sing isn’t enough… he’s also a guitarist and damn good on the keys. This St. Louis native produces, writes, plays, and composes. Check his diverse collection of singles and get your mind ready for the album to drop.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/chicago-turnaround-single/1511447030

The Empress of R&B returns

After a nearly 9 years the industry icon is returning with a new studio album. After releasing a Mother’s Day anthem titled ” Baby Mama” alongside rising star and legend in the making Chance the Rapper she debuted the album cover on Good Morning America. This is Brandy’s seventh studio album which lead her to title the project “B7”.

In the midst of her long awaiting return social media lit up once again with another resurrection of the “The Boy is Mine” battle. Fans of both Monica and Brandy can’t enough of comparing the two. It didn’t help that the new IG show “VERZUZ” is setting the music world on fire. It was only a matter of time before there were calls to see the two got head to head. Despite this historic comparison she is moving forward with her new music and seems like we are on our way after 8 years to new music from the often titled Vocal Bible.