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Saturday, December 25, 2010

A Beautiful Birthday




People asked me, "What are you getting into for your birthday?" I'm like "Nothing much...just family". This is what my life has come to. Now longer is it about painting the town or having to go to a club to toast and act like the night is all about me. I's rather my evening be filled with my family. My niece and wife cooking dinner over my moms. Seeing my sister after finding out about her pregnancy, my brothers, nieces and nephew and my sons. We cracked up at the Miya's getting mounted and humped by a female dog. My Uncle Bert even popped up at the end of the night. It didn't matter that my dad forgot to call me...hell I had over 500 facebook messages. I realize that I am blessed and I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and birthday wished on Dec 20th. I love you all. Peace and blessings.


Thursday, December 2, 2010

Promises I & II

He promised that she
would never have to worry.
That he would be her clarity
when her vision became blurry.
...and even though
she could stand on her own 2
He carried her imagination over thresholds
and found the spot her thoughts ran to.

She promised to take him
through her universe last night.
So he started his journey
exploring the lights in her twilight.
...and even though
his footsteps were not the first
He planted his flag on her moons surface,
and blew kisses through her shirt.

He promised to protect her
with chest out and broad shoulders.
She stroked his ego,
called him her King and her Soldier.
...and even though
they both have past lovers.
They let the past be just that.
and handed the world to each other.

Friday, November 19, 2010

I'm building me a home

This some moves me every time I hear it. Just wanted to share this with everyone. I first heard this watching Spike Lee's "School Daze". It came back up last year when my sister's father passed/ The preacher used the words from this song to bring us at ease when the pain of death struck. I hope you enjoy and I hope it becomes meaningful to you.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Powerful powerful poem calling out Waka Flocka

This poet and poem is soo strong. I am amazed at this young sista's talent, skill, and delivery. So much truth. So very needed. The poet's name is Jasmine Mans.


Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Thank You c/o '95




I wanted to take a moment to say "Thank You" to my Class of 1995 for acknowledging me for my accomplishments with my book(s) of poetry. Originally, I stated that I didn't want to recite a poem, but as soon as my name was mentioned it felt like the right thing to do. It felt great being in front of my friends. Most of the people in that room I have known for majority of my life. I started elementary school and even daycare with some folks. I truly enjoyed and appreciated everyone that showed up and those that traveled from afar to gather together after 15 years of separation. It would have been nice if more of our local classmates came out. I'm sure some had their reasons while others won't support anything ever in their lives. Again, I haven't smiled, laughed, and enjoyed myself they way I did this past weekend in a long time. I can't wait to do it again. To the historical 1st freshman class at Asheville High School. I love you all.




Saturday, October 2, 2010

"Brown Gold"

This is an older poem that I wrote. It is found in my 1st book of poetry "Often Thoughts"

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

New Adventure




A week ago I decided to entertain the kid in me and buy a scooter. I found a guy on craigslist who bought it 3months ago. He was selling it for $500 or would trade a guitar. I negotiated and got him to trade the scooter for $300 and my guitar. I got the scooter home and took it on a spin the next day. I found it relaxing to be out on the streets alone.I get to clear my find and worries do not exists when I'm out and about. This may sound silly but it's true with me. I've always wanted a scooter or moped every since I was small and my dad had a small yellow one at his house. When I had my 1st job at 15yrs old I purchased a Tomas moped that I needed to pedal. My friends and I would ride from back and forth through West Asheville. Ahhhh the joy of the wind. I feel like a kid again.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

New Tattoo




This is my new tattoo. The bird is symbolic of several things. It is a representation of freedom. Freedom from living stagnant. It's time to soar and release myself from being lazy and content. Easily I can sit back and say that I wrote 2 books of poetry and feel a sense of accomplishment. I feel like I still haven't scratched the surface of the iceberg. It's time for me to take flight so I can look back at all I've done...just like my tattoo.


The flight of this bird also is my depiction of the heavenly journey my 3 grandmothers took in 2001. The bird is looking back to show how they are still looking back at me and watching over everything they had to leave behind.

I appreciate this gift that Miya gave me. At 1st I wanted a typical and basic bird, but I realized that my journey has been and will be far from typical and basic . I ended up agreeing with Miya's idea and we matched my bird to the abstract bird image that he has tattoo'd on his neck. I do believe the matching my tattoo to his adds to the bond that I have with my brother.

Tonight I'm going to toast to a great tattoo from my brother, the memories and guidance or my beloved grandmothers, and my journey.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Breath-Taking

I can't remember the last time I've heard a song so beautiful. It has definite;y inspired me to write a poem that mirrors the emotions I felt when listened to this. Please take a second to appreciate "For All We Know" by Donny Hathaway

Sunday, June 20, 2010




Father's Day 2010 was a success. Special thanks to Kim for make it all happen and calling my family for a nice dinner. She even gave me some art supplies so I can begin this journey of dream-chasing and creating something new. Even though it was a day for fathers it seemed like the newest edition to the family got all the attention (5month old Jacolby Streeter). He's a little bundle of smiles and slobber. I really enjoyed celebrating with my little brother Colby on his 1st Father's Day. I missed my big brother Miya being there, but we'll be able to hang out soon enough. thanks for the ton of text messages I woke up to. My sons are funny though. My 14yr old didn't come in until 5pm from playing outside to acknowledge me. My 15yr old needed to be reminded to acknowledge me. My 17yr old sent a text rather than a call. I hope this is just a dumb teen thing. I tried not to take it personal. Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed my day and my family. Thanks Kim, Mom, and Nikki for making it happen. Love you all.



Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Mini Me

















I just wanted to take a moment and acknowledge my 14yr son. He did exceptional 8th grade year. He took honor classes, had an A-B average, played basketball and baseball, and prides hisself on bing a "ladies man". (He has 'McLovin' written on his wall in his room. In the picture above I was taking him to the 8th grade end of year dance. I watched him get ready, spied on him while he practiced his danc moves and facial expressions. He reminds me of myself in so many ways. I think he's more cocky than I was whn I was in the 8th grade. So with all that, I want to give a big shout out to my youngest son Tyrell Bailey for all of his successes and accomplishments.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Computers 4 kids turned out to be a great success. I was able to purchase 4 mini laptops for Asheville's youth. There were over 30 kids that sent essays to my PO Box that addressed issued in their community and how they would like to make helo make things better. Although all essays were amazing, 4 of them stood out and stuck with me. Congratulations to Stephen, Brandon, Dominuque, and Monique for touching me with their wonderful essays. You have truly inspired and motivated me. I am looking to begin another movement that focuses on "Stopping the Violence" amongst our youth. Last but not least I would like to thank everyone for their support. Thank you to all those that came to my parties, donated money to for the computers, and the members of Tried Stone Missionary Baptist Church. I love you all

Tuesday, April 27, 2010




Decided to chase a new dream this week. Actually, I am revisiting an old dream. I started illustrating a coloring book a couple of years ago. This book will have various multi-cultural illustrations. The pictures post are already colored to kinda give everyone an visual on what to expect. I am open to ideas and suggestions and comments. Please feel free to voice you opinion. I hope the book can be finished within the next 3months.


Wednesday, April 14, 2010




I am hosting another event to raise money to purchase computers & laptops for Asheville children. My previous event was successful and I was able to purchase 2 Mini Laptops to be awarded to the essay contest winners (see previous blog). These winners will be announced on the weekend of April 24th

I hope you all can come out and support my Party with a Purpose event and help make a difference in a kids life.

***If you can't make if out, you have the option to make a donation here on http://damionbailey.com. Just click the donate button.***

Event: Polo's & Pumps - Party with a Purpose - April 24th - Paparrazzi Bar & Grill - 8 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville, NC

Thursday, April 1, 2010

To All:

I am holding a contest for Asheville kids 18 and under. The contest requires each contestant to handwrite a 1-2 page essay on how they would like to make a positive change in their community. I would like for the essay to mention your achievable goals and dreams and to also answer the following questions: 1) What would you do to make this change? 2) What would you need to succeed? and 3) Why is this change important to your community?
Basically, I’m looking to be touched by your essay. Kids, write what is in your heart. Parents, please encourage your kids. The winner(s) will be rewarded with a Mini Laptop Netbook

Entry Guidelines:

• Must be 18 or under & reside in Asheville, NC
• Essay must be 1-2 pages
• Essay must be handwritten (not typed)
• Submissions must be mailed & postmarked by April 19th
• Contestant can not be of any relation to Damion Bailey
• Contestant and parent must sign the essay
• Only one entry is allow
• Essay must include contestants name & age, parents name & contact information
• Mail essays to Damion Bailey: PO Box 16660 Charlotte, NC 28297-0660

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Party with a Purpose




Tonight I am hosting a charity event. Party with a Purpose at at a local nightspot in Asheville, NC called Paparrazi. The proceeds earned from this event will go towards the purchase of computers. The better the support and turnout, the more computers can be purchased. The computers will be awarded to deserving kids in the Asheville area. In April I will hold a contest for kids 18 and under to enter. This contest will be a writing contest that will focus on how they plan of helping their community. Wish me luck. The kids need to see that folks out their care. Power to the people has never been so true.

ps. Tonight is already starting off interesting cause people are wanting to get in free. IT'S A CHARITY EVENT!!! The proceeds are needed to help the cause

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Classic

I don't have anything to say about this. It speaks volumes itself.


Wednesday, March 10, 2010



I think I'm onto something. I can touch all corners and cater to the people. As long as I stay true, folks will stay true with me (aleast I hope they do). I've come to the conclusion that throwing parties will generate the capital needed to fund the work I would like to do for the community back home in Asheville. The flyer you see above is for my Friday March 12th event. It's ultimate focus is to accept donations and purchase clothes and food for the homeless. I do feel a certain obligation to support and reach out to the homeless. My uncle choses to live on the street. He says he's "free" there. I understand the dream of living free but he imprisons himself by his thirst for alcohol. I can't understand how a man lets a substance control every aspect of his life. My mom tells me its a disease and seems to understand better than I do. Still, drug and alcohol abuse is something I can't logically understand as being a determinant that regulates my direction. Nevertheless, I love my uncle with everything in me. Often it hurts and other times everything is alright. With this being said I would like to dedicate my event to Uncle Bert who has been like a father figure to me my whole life. I pray he changes one day before its too late

Thursday, February 25, 2010

She Was So Beautiful (in remembrance of Ninny)







"Y u won'cho hair like dat?", she asked me.

(it was 90 years after her first day)


Her vibrating eyes neared blindness.
Her hands shook as they reached.
Her ear canal was plugged with plastic machinery.
(...i guess it helped)

"I love my locs Ninny," I replied.

Her teeth were artificial.
Her skin was wrinkled.
Her body troubled her.

"How u s'pose 2 git a job lookin' like dat?", she questioned.

Her voice trembling.
Her memory fading.
Her hair thinning.

She was my Earth Angel.
She was so beautiful.
She was my heaven.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Poem from "My Journal My Journey" - Take Me With You

I never had any opening lines or fancy catch phrases when I wanted to meet a woman. If I were to say something, I guess here's how it will go. Enjoy. Purchase the book here on my blog.


Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Drinks and Dialogue

I was at my sons basketball game in Charlotte sending text messages to Timmy and other friends and family to see what the weather was looking like. The news was calling for snow and ice. I got the thumbs up that the snow wasn't a factor, got the family settled, and hit the highway. I was off to a late start and was on course to make it to the event arounf 9:30p. The event was to start arounf 8:30-9p. Timmy called a couple of times to check on me. I was nervous that thinks were looking too good as far as the turnout. I finally arrive and greet everyone and meet a few people I didn't know. We gathered and Timmy raised the 1st question. I decided the initiate and the rest was history. It was a joy to hear so many different views and opinions. More people came out and and more discussions ensued. The conversation was energetic and laughable and had passion. People at the bar joined in and more joined after midnight. Eventually we were coming up on the 4th hour and we had to bring the event to a close. Timmy and I smiled and each other and nodded in approval. We asked questions about life, love, men, women, cheating, one-night stands, and all the "why do's". The reviews were good and everyone had a great time. We knew that we could control and change the culture of Asheville's nightlife

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Lionel Richie "Hello"

I want to pay tribute to one of the most beautiful love ballets thar I've ever heard. The words are simple but means so much. The video did the song justice and is magnificent. It pains me to hear todays music singing about -she's stays on the tip of my tongue.LoL. This is that fall in love music, that appreciation music, true heartfelt music. I hope you are astonished by this song all over again...as I am...as I was when I first heard it years ago.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Book Review by Monique

This is a brief review on my book by a friend named Monique. Check her out at http://divascancook.blogspot.com. She has some amazing recipes and is an outstanding cook. I hope you guys enjoy the book review as much as I am and go check out Monique at her blog. Also you can see her at http://youtube.com/divascancook showing off her cooking skills. Much love Mo.Thanks forever

Saturday, January 30, 2010




I was driving around and making my rounds last night getting last minute goods while the first of the snow came down. I love the snow. I can go out with no jacket and play in it. I prefer the cold over a hot summer day. PLans for this evening? Do absolutely nothing. I'm going to relax, watching my son play video games, blog, tweet, FB, write, and bake me some brownies. Enjoy the weather folks. Everyone should try to have some wine and make love tonight.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Thoughts on Book Release Party





Wow. The energy was electric. People of all ages were there...from 21 - 50+. Whether they came to party, hear poetry, support the book. or support Haiti...it was a grand event. i would like to give a heart-felt "thanks" to all that showed up. The club was crowded, but it was never uncomfortable. After midnight I was brought on stage by Timmy and Miya. I wanted to honor and hold a moment of silence all of Asheville's fallen brothers and sisters. Almost everyone was silence and showed respect. There was the typical small group of outliers (selfish negroes) that continued to talk. Later that night folks in the crowd told me that they felt like punching the rude guests...heck I did too. I'm glad they recognized they positive spirit of the night. Lots of books were sold. " My Journal My Journey" was a HIT. I also sold out at the store it's being held at. Yayyyyy. We'll do it again soon. Have another celebration here in QC about the 3rd week in Feb. I hope to see everyone out. Love you all dearly.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

The excitement grows. My book release celebration is coming next Saturday.I don't know which poem I want to read. I don't even have a clue. As an artist I have an arsenol of poetry swarming and circling in my head. I guess I'm going to play it by ear and decide once I get on stage. Last night my partner Timmy Smith asked what do I think about donating some of the proceeds to Haiti victims. I had heard about the quakes but hadn't paid much attention to the media. I responded by suggesting donating some money to a local charity. Later that night I went home and was going to watch "Family Guy". While flipping through the channels I passed cnn and saw actual footage on the devastation going on in Haiti. The visual was heart-breaking. Dead bodies on the grounds and children crying immediately reminded me of Hurricane Katrina. First thing this morning I let Timmy know he was absolutely right about his suggestion to send some of the proceeds to Haiti. Until the party I will send my prayers and thoughts.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Book Release Party


It's back. The celebration of "My Journal My Journey". This is my 2nd self-published book of poetry. The 1st book was entitled "Often Thoughts". I say tell folks it went Ghetto Gold in sales. Asheville was my strongest support. This is why I wanted to bring my 1st event home to Asheville. Once I decided this I put a bug in my homies ear. In October, I called Timmy Smith. He has shown success in having parties and a positive circle of energy. 2 things that motivated me to look for his assistance. It also helped that we were friends in high school, college, and to this current day. Turns out Timmy was the perfect partner. We have the same goals...similar aspirations. He's not afraid to let me know if my idea won't work. Also assisting Timmy with hosting this event is my big brother Miya Bailey. I love this guy immeasurable amounts. I've never held a bond so strong with anyone. Growing up he was by big brother, father figure, and inspiration. This guy means the world to me and I am grateful that he can take timeout of this busy schedule and alter appointments to be there for me.

So now we approaching our big day for the 2nd time (1st time got snowed out) January 23rd. Asheville, NC. Club 828. 10pm.

Hosted by:

Timmy Smith of http://twitter.com/SocialLifeAvl and http://sociallifetimes.blogspot.com

Miya Bailey of http://twitter.com/MiyaBailey and http://miyabailey.com

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

"Promises"

Poem from "My Journal My Journey" Book avail here on blog site for purchase

Audio only. Close your eyes