Syreeta's Version: Got invited to a FREE concert by our dear friend Hans Elder to see Meshell Ndegeocello perform at the Standard Hotel on Sunset. Free is in capitals for a reason, because when Hans and I arrived and been sitting for a tick or two, Gabe "Angel" (As I affectionately call him) Alfred asked us if we knew J. Kevin Swain, cuz these were J. Kevin Swain's tables (as he motioned to all the tables in the section...lol.) I looked at Hans cuz 1. This was a FREE concert (how can someone claim seats at a FREE concert) and 2. I didn't know no damn J. Kevin Swain...lol. When J. Kevin Swain finally arrived at the FREE concert he came to our table to ask if we needed anything and if we were having a good time. That's when Hans introduced us and shared we should know each other because we were both native Angelenos, or as I like to all us Unicorns. We exchanged pleasantries and cards and he went on to continue to address his flock...lol. Meshell actual came out and performed, which can be hit or miss for her. As we were leaving Hans and I waited for my car and I noticed Kevin skirt off in his Mustang, but not before it backfired twice, which I thought was super cute...lol. A few days later he called and we chatted and agreed to meet. He picked the quintessential LA spot (Grand Central Market) and we dined and talked over octopus tacos, which I know, is sooo LA. Then because neither of us wanted the date to end, we walked to get drinks (sangria, of course) at Ciudad, and on the way we were serenaded by some Opera singer practicing under the 110 underpass (acoustics were great). We drank, shut that place down but still weren't ready for the date to end so we had a night cap at Perch where he almost got into a fight with a guy that was hitting on me when he went to the bathroom, which just made me swoon (my hero...lol). And we've been rocking and making memories all over the world ever since.

Just another night with the homies, holding it down like we always do! (just being gentlemen and scholars..). My best homie since '74, Gabe was making sure everyone was being taking care of with proper seating and libations. A newer acquaintance introduced me to his "therapist", which I thought was an unique Hollywood intro. I stepped up with an educated conversation and was immediately intrigued. We agreed to connect and it's been on and crackin' 7 years later. The best first day ever was a simple LA affair. Grand Central Market was the agreed upon location. I'm from South Central, she's from Inglewood-what could be a better than Octopus Tacos, Sangria, Opera In the 3rd Street Tunnel, iconic downtown architecture and drinks overlooking Pershing Square at sunset. I kinda knew she was different now I know for sure!