During the finally weekend in September I took a mini break from and headed home for the Outkast show! Before I continue, there are a few things I must explain so you, the reader, are able to grasp why this was so transformative for me. I literally grew up listening to Outkast, the lullabies of my childhood. There’s something so gratifying about seeing the people of your town coming together for a shared experience. Andre 3000 & Big Boi permeated my youth as familiar figures in my life, reminiscent of boys from around my neighborhood. To me, they demonstrated the complexities of maturing in an city environment. Sometimes by sending out messages that sometimes seem conflicted, displaying the yearning to do right while simultaneously maintaining their ever coveted “manhood.”
(My friend Salah & I at the 2nd concert,my apologies for not being able to make any normal faces)
There was so much passion this weekend, overflowing from the center of Centennial Park, into the streets of Atlanta. It was impossible to escape. This irresistible sense of belonging sucked me. This was my tribe, I was home.
(Hometown friends before the concert began)
(My best friend & I)
As an out of state student, it’s can be easy to get sucked into this NY state of mind. I recognize just how important it is for me to stay connected to my hometown. Sometimes that means listening to some southern music, eating some southern food, or taking a weekend break to fly down South. New York is an amazing place to study, travel & live, but remembering your home & then bringing that flavor is makes you special! Don’t shy away from it!
All things Color, Love, & Fashion,
Ayanna L.