Cedric Brown Can Put It Down!!!

One of the first events I was asked to be a part of when I moved to the Bay Area was in conjunction with the National Queer Arts Festival it was called, “Is Gay Male Culture Dead?” I was quite nervous because other than a few open-mics this was to be my debut in my new hometown area. Cedric Brown was one of the featured guests for this event. We had communicated on-line as part of B/Glam which he'd co-founded with Marvin K. White but this would be our first time meeting in person.

That night after seeing him perform I began to refer to him as Cedric “Put It Down” Brown. The evening was also significant because not only would it be a beginning for me and commencement of a new friendship with Cedric, it would be the last time I performed with my former duo partner Regi Perry who passed away about a year later.

From the start Cedric has been a beautifully encouraging brother with an easy smile, witty conversation, someone who can make you laugh in an instant, and a love of the arts that I truly admire. Over time we'd run into each other at different events Alvin Ailey Dance Company, Rachelle Farrell, and keep in touch electronically as well. I've always felt any time our paths cross I'm guaranteed to have a great experience.

Earlier this year he published his book, “Eyes of Water & Stone” and I was recently able to get my hands on a copy. Even though I know him personally and through his work I am still amazed at the depth of his talent. This book weaves a wonderful story that is based on true events, but also plunges you into the best place that reading should. A place where you are transported by the author into feeling what the characters feel and longing to know what happens next. Fueled by love, hope, history, culture, desire, doubt, and many other themes “Eyes of Water & Stone” is an easy read but by no means is it simple.

Cedric Brown has indeed once again PUT IT DOWN!! and you owe it to yourself to purchase this book. I promise you, you won't be disappointed.....

It is available at www.blurb.com and you can find his on-line archives at http://oaktownbrown.wordpress.com/

CEDRIC BROWN makes social commentary through artistic expression as a writer, visual art producer, director, and aficionado of the African Diaspora. He is also a funder, activist, spouse, and uncle. Cedric is originally from North Carolina and lives in Oakland, California.