Book Recommendation: Next Generation Leader

One of my recent reads is a book titled, Next Generation Leader: Five Essentials For Those Who Will Shape The Future. The book was written by Andy Stanley, and released in 2003. Reading this book has provided me with valuable knowledge of what it means to be a leader of virtue. In the book, Stanley breaks down five core principles that shape the effectiveness of a leader. These principles are competence, courage, clarity, coaching, and character. Out of the five, I was most inspired by the section on courage. Stanley does a wonderful job of explaining courage in a way that lights a fire in readers. "Courage is the willingness to move in a direction in spite of the emotions and thoughts that bid you to do otherwise." This quote is powerful, because we often believe that courageous people do not experience fear. However, the reality is to the contrary, courageous people are able to push through the fear they experience. I also enjoyed reading the section on character. Stanley explains the fine line between simply being a leader, and being a leader worth following. "Your gifts and determination may dictate your potential, but it is your character that will determine your legacy." This section of the book taught me the importance of living a life of purpose, and using my gifts to make a positive impact. One of the things that makes this book so profound, is that it incorporates the author's relevant experiences. Throughout the book, Stanley explains the many situations he's faced leading as senior pastor of North Point Ministries. The book is well-organized, and gets its message across clearly. I truly believe you can be positively impacted by giving this one a read. Feel free to order a copy using the link below.

https://store.northpoint.org/shop/books/next-generation-leader.html

4:44 Tour Review!

On November 17th, I attended Jay-Z's 4:44 tour in Charlotte, NC. It has been going on since October 27th, and will last through December 21st. The tour is in support of Jay-Z's thirteenth studio album, 4:44, which released in the summer of 2017. Vic Mensa serves as the opening act. I won't spoil the set list for you, but it covers a wide range of Hov's career.  He has so many hits that the show could've went on for hours longer. I had a great time. The stage design consisted of an octagon in the center of the arena. I thought this was cool, because it allowed each section of the audience to have an equal perspective of the performer. The screens at the concert also moved around, which was a nice visual aspect of the show. My last time seeing Jay perform was in 2011 during the Watch the Throne tour. He's laid-back, but his music has the power to set an arena on fire. You have to respect his longevity in the game. Not too many artists have a catalog of hits from the 90's till 2017. As a fan, I wish I could hear all of his work performed. If he somehow did a total catalog show where he performed everything, you would definitely catch me in the crowd. Those in attendance received a six-month free trial of Tidal. The tour is ongoing, so if possible, I highly recommend checking it out. You have to take advantage of the opportunity to witness a living legend. Thanks for reading!

4eva Is A Mighty Long Time Review!

On October 27th, Mississippi artist, Big K.R.I.T. released his third studio album 4eva Is A Mighty Long Time. The project is lengthy, as a double album with 22 tracks. Features include T.I., Lloyd, UGK, CeeLo Green, Sleepy Brown, Joi, Jill Scott, Keyon Harrold, Bilal, Robert Glasper, Kenneth Whalum, and Burniss Earl Travis II. The project comes much anticipated, after almost three years since the release of the artist's second studio album, Cadillactica. The production and flow of the project clearly stays true to K.R.I.T's southern roots. I appreciate the originality, lyricism, and overall southern vibe of the album. I was watching K.R.I.T's The Breakfast Club interview the other day, and he stated that he doesn't listen to outside music during the creative process. This just demonstrates the devotion he gives into making his art stand out. The lyrical content illustrates the self-reflection and spiritual growth that K.R.I.T. underwent while crafting this project. I won't spoil it for you, but he mentions the many exterior, as well as interior struggles, he faces as an artist. I highly recommend this album, although I must admit I have some bias being a southerner myself. I would consider it to be among my top albums of 2017. My two favorite tracks have to be "Get Away" and "Bury Me In Gold." I'll definitely be vibing to this album for the foreseeable future. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!