
Thursday 8/29
Toni Braxton: Back to Business
Toni Braxton may have appeared in recent headlines due to a “wardrobe malfunction,” but the Grammy-award winning R&B singer continues to truck on. After being diagnosed with lupus, Braxton went on a brief musical hiatus, but now the singer has returned to the spotlight in a whole new way. Braxton will be releasing a collaborative studio album with singer Babyface, due out December 3, 2013. The album, called “Love, Marriage, and Divorce,” will allegedly sport a “Mars vs. Venus” theme. “The whole perspective is guy and girl, Mars vs. Venus,” says Babyface. “Even if you’re in love, you’re in love for different reasons.” Braxton added – “I think because Babyface and I have both gone through divorces, we can relate and we can collaborate together on this topic.” Yikes. Sounds…cathartic? 8 p.m. James L. Knight Center. 400 SE 2nd Ave, Miami, 33131.
Friday 8/30
Dillon Francis in Downtown Fort Lauderdale
If you’re visiting (or just on a staycation) this Labor Day weekend, take note: House producer Dillon Francis will be spinning a DJ set at Revolution Live in Downtown Fort Lauderdale on Friday. The electro producer/DJ has often been cited as one of the pioneers of the moombahton genre. Francis has worked with the likes of Calvin Harris, Diplo, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Maluca and many other well-respected house and electro artists. If house gets you going, this is the Friday night party for you. 9 p.m. Revolution Live. 100 SW 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33312.
Bruno Mars in Miami
Bruno Mars is one of those artists who dreamed of making a hit single, made said single, then continued to release hit after hit after hit. He worked hard, chased his dreams, and got what he wanted. Now that he’s acknowledged and respected within the industry, Mars is able to do more mature work. His album from last year, “Unorthodox Jukebox,” proved that the singer was capable of producing a cohesive body of mature work, with a little help from some extraordinary vocals. The Hawaiian singer-songwriter has won several awards for his work, including a Grammy, an American Music Award and a Billboard Music award. The Moonshine Jungle Tour is Mars’ second concert tour in support of last year’s “Unorthodox Jukebox,” so if you missed him last run, now’s your chance. 8 p.m. American Airlines Arena. 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 33132.
Saturday 8/31
A Studio 54 Pajama Party
Boom will be throwing a uniquely themed party this weekend: Studio 54 Pajama Party. The club will be combining the two popular party themes to heat up your Labor Day weekend. Disco dancing, live shows, guest DJs and a retro 70s theme make this party a strong contender for your weekend party. Remember, it’s not actually the 70s anymore, so you can’t pull the “I sleep naked” card. 9 p.m. Boom. 2234 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Zeb Atlas Performs at Boardwalk
If you’re seeking something a little more exotic, porn star Zeb Atlas will be doing a guest performance at Boardwalk in Fort Lauderdale this weekend. Atlas has been doing porn softcore and hardcore porn for a number of years, receiving various nominations and awards in the adult film industry, including a GayVN award nomination and a Grabby award. The muscled model will be live on stage for all eyes, so if you’re thirsty, bring your dollar bills. Two shows each night, all weekend. Visit boardwalkbar.com for more information. 1721 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33311.
Sunday 9/01
Robin Thicke and Pharell: Live
Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” is already a contender for song of the year – It’s mainstream pop with a modern R&B edge. Simple, yet effective. Though there was intense controversy over the lyrics and message of the music video, which feminists believe to be sexist and chauvinistic, it’s hard not to like the song after hearing it a dozen times. The Pharrell-produced track evokes playfulness and sex appeal that we haven’t seen in mainstream music in years. Thicke’s icy blue eyes are just an added bonus, right? Pharell will be joining Thicke onstage for the performance of the song, in what could potentially be the biggest party moment of the year. 10 p.m. Fountainebleau Miami Beach. 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 33140.
Black Party
Promoter Gary Santis is known for his annual White Party and well as his Labor Day weekend Black Party. Sunday’s Black Party (now in its 15th year), encourages attendees to indulge in their dark side, requesting you to rock your best “sexy wear or fetish attire.” This year’s party is “erotic carnival” themed, so we can only imagine what kind of a party it’s going to be. With live “erotic cirque acts” and adult film stars, you’re going to be entertained from the time you walk in the door until they turn the house lights on. Join host Diva Kitty Meow and DJ Manny Lehman for a wild night you won’t forget. 10 p.m. The Manor. 2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Monday 9/02
In The Biz Night?
If you’re not a traditional 9-5′er, there’s a big chance you’ll be off on a Monday. But, if you’re looking for a fun “in-the-biz” style night, the chances of finding one off of The Drive are slim. Cue Rumors’ “in-the-biz” night, where you can receive 50% off of your entire check with a recent pay stub from a service or industry-related job. From 9 p.m. to close, the drink specials will rotate hourly, representing each of the bar’s nightly specials. If you’d rather stick to one kind of liquor, the bar luckily also offers $3 margaritas. It’s a great place to meet up with friends, or to make new ones instead. 9 p.m. Rumors Bar & Grill. 2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Tuesday 9/03
Mona’s Cocktail Lounge is a killer place to kick back and relax. It’s a nice local bar, the staff is friendly, and the décor manages to be funky and fun without being kitsch. The bar’s signature “train game” has become a staple in the local community. Since the bar sits just next to the train tracks, whenever a train passes, its presence is known immediately. Patrons are to pick a number (1-20), and the bartender draws a number as well. If yours matches his or hers, you get a free shot. Who doesn’t love free? Open noon to 2 a.m. Mona’s Cocktail Lounge. 502 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 33304.
Wednesday 9/04
Say “Cheese”
New York Grilled Cheese Co. will be presenting their first annual “Cheese-A-Rama,” coordinating with the 10 year anniversary for The Smart Ride. Hosted by Daisy Deadpetals and Nicole Halliwell, the restaurant will be serving up grilled cheese realness with a side of entertainment. Sponsored by Target (who will be contributing to the silent auction at the party), the party will also be holding a raffle with cash prizes, so come out to support a good cause and enjoy one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches you’ll ever eat. 7:30 p.m. New York Grilled Cheese Co. 2207 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.