Author

Xzavier Simon

Xzavier V. Simon is a native of the Beecher community. When he's not writing articles, books, or working on his indie publication, The Modern Queer Magazine, you can find Xzavier listening to K-pop, cooking, playing video games, diving deep into Japanese culture, and being a spiritualist. 

Xzavier Simon's Latest Articles

“Fear no evil” on his left tells the story of the artist being robbed and pistol-whipped in Flint—a moment that left a permanent scar.
Flint artist Cam Howe talks sports dreams, reflects on the past & future goals

“The first radio station [to interview me] was 93.7. The first stage I grabbed the mic on was at Flint Local 432.”

Justin and Jeron's poke bowl delicacy comes in a variety of flavors and styles.
How Flint’s Poke Bowl has survived — and got creative — during the pandemic

Brothers Justin Bush and Jeron Dotson were about to open their new restaurant. Then the pandemic hit. Here's how they've weathered it.

22-year-old Brelia Renee, singer-songwriter and dancer, has made waves throughout the community with incredible vocals, stellar performances.
Flint’s R&B songstress, Brelia Renee, makes waves with debut single and a powerful voice

It was essential to Renee, especially in a COVID-19 world, to showcase “good vibes, and good feelings.” It's those things that matter, and why family support means everything.

“I’m grateful for all of the life lessons. I appreciate the process because it made me who I am.”
Jada Ali discusses the reality of women in Hip Hop and being her own boss

Flint's Jada Ali is making her way in a Hip Hop industry that has historically been dominated by men.

24-year-old Flint native and Arizona born Matthew Wiley, sitting, reflecting, and playing his Nintendo DS.
Channel 42 and the Azure Blues of Matthew Wiley

"I want people to come to my shows and feel like they can meditate."

Jeff Skigh said his five-year-old son inspires him to follow his dreams.
Jeff Skigh’s humor, creativity, & collaborative spirit stand out in Flint’s booming Hip Hop scene

Fatherhood and a willingness to work with artists of all background have been influential in Jeff Skigh's growth as a musician.

Ace Gabbana and Jon Connor are on a mission to change music and give a new generation better options.
Spirituality, OutKast & MoonWater: The bizarre world of Ace Gabbana

"I've learned how [to be] patient with where I'm at." Flint musician Ace Gabbana discusses his upcoming album and spirituality with Flintside.

“I can come back to Flint and tell stories, and let kids know that it’s possible.”
Jon Connor: Making new music, sharing knowledge, & building a legacy in Flint

Flint rapper Jon Connor worked alongside Dr. Dre and achieved mainstream music success that many artists dream of. Now, he's back in Flint making music -- and sharing knowledge with a new generation of musicians.

Flint native Jesse Davis teaches heels and Hip Hop classes in Flint and Detroit.
“I give you the tools, and you paint me the picture”

Jesse Davis, a Flint native and choreographer, is the only dance instructor in the area who teaches heels classes geared toward men.

In the face of the city’s population decline, Flint leaders and businesses are coming together to make sure everyone is informed and gets counted.
Flint organizations work to ensure residents are counted in 2020 census

Census season has arrived with over $142 million potential federal funds to be distributed to the city—that is if everyone gets counted. Here's how local organizations are rallying to make sure every Flint resident is informed and counted by April 1. 

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