Merical Joy is Naturally Glam!
Greetings Curlfriends! My name is Merical Joy (pronounced like Miracle) or just plain ol’ MJ. I currently live in Atlanta, Georgia! I am a mother, daughter, sister, auntie, and amateur photographer. I love r&b music, writing and all things creative.
How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural a little over 2 years. I did my big chop in April of 2011 and another big chop/style cut in April of 2013. I started my natural hair transition in Nov 2010. It wasn’t a big stretch to do the big chop because my hair was already in a short hair cut. I was impatient and couldn’t wait to start my hair journey.
What motivated you to go natural? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper & why?
Doing the big chop was one of the most liberating things ever! There is nothing about my hair that I don’t love. It’s easy to manage and maintain. My routines are simple and easy. Don’t mean to brag 🙂
What has been the most memorable part of your journey?
Most memorable moments for me include participating in other women’s natural hair journeys. I’ve been there for big chops, doing two of them myself, shopping for products and meeting some amazing women in the natural hair community.
It’s an incredible journey. I have enjoyed every bit of it and I wouldn’t change or go back to a relaxer for anything in the world. I don’t see the “natural hair movement” as a fad or trend. To me it’s simply being the woman God intended for me to be.
What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
Since I’m currently rockin a tapered twa, I LOVE wash and gos. When my hair was longer, my go to style was twist outs. I also wore puffs, bantu knots, and finger coils. I believe in having fun with my hair. I am not afraid of color and trying different hair styles.
Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My son and significant other love my natural hair! My support system is awesome and even my sisters are natural haired beauties! Before returning to natural the running joke was that I was apart of the “Hair Witness Protection” program! Not much has changed because I’ll still switch it up in a heart beat 🙂 You never know what to expect with me and my hair!
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I wore a blow out last summer to a family function and I was surprised by the reaction of my family. They are used to me constantly changing my hair so “returning to natural” wasn’t a surprise to them. The surprise came from them seeing how big my hair was and how much it had grown.
My stash includes Herbal Essences Hello Hydration shampoo and conditioner. Shea moisture curl defining smoothie, and deep conditioner. As I Am Twist Defining Cream, Ecco Styler Gel, Argan and EVOO Oils.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites, YouTuber’s, or blogs?
CurlyNikki.com is my favorite website for all things natural hair related. On YouTube you can catch me watching Natural Chica, Ariel Sansaricq (hair cut inspired by her), My Natural Sistas, and many, many more!
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
My hair journey coincides with my journey of life after death. I lost my mom April 7, 2012 and she was the epitome of what being a strong woman was all about. After her passing I learned about an inner strength I didn’t know I had. Returning to natural allowed me to not only fall in love with myself all over again but to also not be afraid to step out on faith and walk the path that God has laid for me. Family, friends and my faith are important and are a vital part of who I am and what keeps me grounded. I believe in sharing my journeys because so many have shared theres. At the end of the day “If you’ve been blessed then it’s your responsibility to be a blessing to others.”
Where can people find you for more information?
Kinki_Gyrl@yahoo.com
KinkiGyrl on Instagram
KinkiGyrl on Twitter
http://blog.elledanielle.com/2013/05/07/merical-atlanta-portrait-session/
www.trulyblessedmom.wordpress.com
Look no further for a spiritual break through. Olatuja is composed of the dynamic collaboration between bassist/composer Michael Olatuja and vocalist Alicia Olatuja. With the help of Whirlwind Recordings they present their exhilarating new single, Royalty. This bop combines vibrant orchestral arrangements with grooving Afrobeats and blazing melodies, creating a uniquely immersive experience that celebrates self-empowerment and inspiration. Drawing from the rich heritage of West African music and melding it with gospel and jazz influences, “Royalty” offers a mesmerizing blend of Yoruba and English, delivering a message that resonates with audiences worldwide. Alicia says:
‘Royalty’ merges musical ideals to create a new sound: Cinematic Afrobeats. “It is an anthem of empowerment, celebration, dance, and remembering who you really are!
Olatuja’s upcoming album, also titled Olatuja, is set to release on Friday, May 31. Fans can anticipate a musical journey that seamlessly blends diverse influences and experiences. The album features an array of talented musicians, including drummers Obed Calvaire and Joshua Keitt, guitarist Femi Temowo, and GRAMMY® Award-nominated pianist Christian Sands, among others. Through their collective artistry, Olatuja aims to inspire joy, trust, and honest communication, inviting audiences to join them on a transformative musical adventure. Listen to soul-stirring melodies below and pre-order their upcoming album here.
Dive into the emotional depth of BJRNCK‘s latest single and video release for Expresso Martini. As BJRNCK sings about the raw realities of dating and the aftermath of heated arguments with loved ones, her gentle yet powerful vocals, weaves a tale of vulnerability and resilience. Born and raised in the dynamic city of Los Angeles and nurtured by the diverse tapestry of Chicago, BJRNCK’s music is a fusion of rich experiences and unapologetic authenticity. BJRNCK’s brand new single and video offers a captivating glimpse into her artistry, exploring themes of love, conflict, and self-discovery. Media connections spoke on the artists record saying:
The single embodies BJRNCK’s gentle vocals that deliver a powerful and relatable ballad.
BJRNCK’s ability to infuse her music with genuine emotion and authenticity has garnered her recognition in the industry. Leading to her feature in Future and Metro Boomin‘s music video for Drink N Dance and to her Billboard 100 chart placement with Omarion‘s single Taking Off. BJRNCK’s journey is one of collaboration and evolution, with notable partnerships with industry heavyweights like London On Da Track, LA Reid, and Babyface. Her fearless demeanor and edgy vibe resonate in every note and social media post, earning her the admiration of a growing fan base. As she continues to pave her way in the music scene, BJRNCK remains committed to empowering women through her vulnerable yet relatable lyrics and captivating melodies. Stream below, and connect with BJRNCK on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
*
-
Bars1 week agoLord Salaam’s Debut Album ‘Lessons Learned’: A Deep Dive into Charleston’s Rising Hip-Hop Star
-
Music2 weeks agoApril Fools prank turns into genius marketing by these two entrepreneurs
-
Audio2 weeks agoUnveiling “Betty” By @Dope_Boy_P410 & El Camino’s Hip-Hop Collaboration Set To Shake The Scene
-
Interview3 weeks agoBehind the Music: Creating KOKOmotion
-
Albums2 weeks ago
Reezie Roc Releases Epic Visuals To “What Playas Ride To” A New Song From His New Album “Dapper Season 2”
-
Audio3 weeks agoCincinnati native Big Lotion drops his new single “Green A Go”
-
Interview2 weeks agoFrom New York to the World: D-Kno Money’s Impact on Hip Hop
-
Audio1 week agoTupac’s “Dear Mama” Gets A Country Twist For Mother’s Day With A Tribute By @ItsRvshvd