Kevin Mines Book Release x Icon City: Spotlighting Black Queer Storytelling Through Nightlife & Narrative

A Case Study in Event Production, Literary Engagement, and Community-Based Media 🧠 The Moment In the heart of Philadelphia’s Black LGBTQ+ scene, Level Up Nightclub (a now-closed Black-owned LGBTQ+ establishment) represented more than just nightlife — it was a cultural institution. When independent adult author Kevin Mines self-published his latest work, Icon City Entertainment stepped up to celebrate that achievement with a bold and intentional event that fused nightlife, literature, and dialogue. The event featured live interviews , community engagement, and a guest appearance by J.L. King , author of On the Down Low . It was hosted and moderated by Aigner "Anye Elite" Ellis , who brought both journalistic focus and cultural authenticity to the evening. 🎯 Event Objectives Uplift independent Black queer authorship through a celebratory, affirming event Bridge generations by creating a dialogue between literary voices from different eras Demonstrate the power of nightlife as a platform for intellectual and cultural engagement 🛠 Icon City’s Role 🎤 Event Production & Moderation Sole producer of the event, with all production costs absorbed by Icon City Entertainment as a show of support for independent Black creatives Hosted and moderated a live interview with Kevin Mines , focusing on queer adult fiction and self-publishing Conducted a joint conversation with J.L. King , tying Mines’ work to a broader history of Black queer literature and representation 📣 Media & Promotion Marketed the event through Icon City’s Philadelphia network and LGBTQ+ media channels Framed the gathering as part of a broader cultural thesis: our stories deserve platforms — even in nightlife Captured media assets for future visibility and legacy archiving 📊 Results & Impact High-energy crowd filled the venue, validating both the author’s work and the concept of nightlife-based intellectual events Sparked intergenerational literary discussion among attendees Reinforced Icon City’s role as a cultural producer committed to visibility and infrastructure for Black queer creatives 💡 Why It Matters “Not every book launch needs a bookstore — some need a mic, a stage, and a room full of our people.” By absorbing costs, facilitating meaningful conversation, and choosing a culturally resonant space, Icon City affirmed its belief that Black LGBTQ+ creativity deserves to be seen, funded, and celebrated — on our own terms . 🔗 Let’s Launch Your Story Whether you're an author, podcaster, or creator with something to say — Icon City is here to help amplify your voice, your way. 📩 Partner With Icon City 📚 Discover more events that uplift Black LGBTQ+ authors at IconCityNews.com 💥 Support queer literary storytelling via Icons Rising