Kelis, Patti Labelle, and The Like, Rock out at ELLE’s Women Music Party

It may have been raining Wednesday (June 9) night, but it was certainly not dreary at the Highline Ballroom as Elle magazine kicked off a rockin’ night in tribute to the artistic women featured in the Women in Music July issue, hosted by Editor-in Chief Roberta Myers.

The open bar was flowing with the new Belvedere Grapefruit vodka as well as beer and wine, and there was plenty to nibble on: spicy chicken buffalo rolls, delicious three cheese pear puffs, fluffy goat cheese and chive baby quiches, and filling cheeseburger sliders.  Garnier Fructise created a hair station for those looking for a do more suited for the event or just looking to try something new.

The innovative New York City DJ Justine D had everyone’s feet moving as she spun the tracks that kept the electric, pulsating energy humming as the talented women took the stage throughout the night.

First up was the all female group The Like with their blend of songs from female groups of the 60’s delivered with a high energy, tenacious, and unflinching garage sound.  Keep a lookout for “Release Me”, the title track of the album released scheduled for release today (June 15th) and my favorite tune from this sassy, all girl, musical creation.

Next was surprise guest and musical legend Patti LaBelle who performed her hit “Lady Marmalade” as only she could, razzle and dazzling the crowd with her strong, magnetic vocal ability and charismatic personality.  She was utterly remarkable to watch! And, clearly loves the attention, Ms. Patti Labelle, stopped throughout her performance so fans could take her picture.  Even screaming “take my picture!” Now, that’s a star.

Last, and certainly not least, was the highlight of my night: Kelis, who performed a medley of songs including her new hit “Acapella.”  The exploding smash of the summer from her new album Flesh Tone scheduled for release on July 6th.  One performance  was a spicy and playful version of her hit “Milkshake” mingled with Madonna’s “Holiday.”  It was fresh and exciting to see Kelis donning her new look that was funky, edgy, feminine, ballsy, fun and she looked absolutely amazing!

There were plenty of celebrity guests enjoying the festivities for the night, including fashion designer Catherine Malandrino, Jennifer Williams of VH1’s Basketball Wives, model turned musician Cassie, and Whitney Port, Olivia Palermo and Roxy Olin of MTV’s hit series “The City.” It was a night of intrigue, music, celebration, and fun as everyone danced and drank the night away.  Elle’s Women in Music 2010 event was definitely a night to remember!

Cheers,

Lori Richardson

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Alicia Keys Attends Gotham Magazine Annual Party

Where were you this past Monday? I can tell you where I was, I was “partying” with Alicia Keys and by partying I mean I was breathing the same air as her but I have a feeling you may just wish you were there too.  Unless, of course, you too “partied” with Alicia and me  because then you know what a great evening Monday was.  There was tons of food, great music, great people and it was just a fun night of celebration for Niche Media’s Gotham Magazine.

Miss Alica Keys, whose current single, “Empire State of Mind with Jay Z,” is burning up the airways along with other singles from her album, is Gotham Magazine’s March Cover Model and of course the guest of honor for the celebration of the night.  She, along with Niche Media publication founder, Jason Binn (but I rather call him J-binn) who also served as the party’s MC, celebrated the evening in style.

Throughout the evening J-binn- who I am positive has a rapper alter ego- was often heard “hyping” and encouraging the crowd to drink, eat, and DANCE to the music of DJ Cassidy.  There was also a performance from hip-hop pianist Miri Bin-Ari.  Jealous? Well, you should be but I am not quite done because I haven’t told you about the food which was everywhere and lots of it. There was a pasta bar, along with cheese, vegetables, meats, olives, and so much more than I can’t remember.

Some notables attendees include Ryan Leslie who was once spotted with the same lanky brunette, Catherine Malandrino, Russell Simmons, Robert Verdi, and me.

Check out the Gallery from the Party. Pictures thanks to Moises De Pena

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Catherine Malandrino Sample Sale (Dec. 14-16)

Catherine Malandrino for Contreau Event (12.6)

Catherine Malandrino and WGIRLS Hope for the Holidays Shopping (Nov.12)