Diva Dejie Johnson has called Atlanta home for some years after a stint in The Big Apple (and survived Studio 54 no less), doing time at The Red Chair among other hot local spots and while Iím biased because I consider her a dear close and personal friend, Iíll shamelessly boast about how fabulous she is nonetheless.

Having marked her 50th year, she released celebrated the release of her first CD last tonight to a wildly enthusiastic crowd. Full of standards and attitude, her performance on the circular pressing gave a tease of what she gives in person. As someone who loathes concert settings, I can respect and acknowledge that some performers give a better showing on vinyl/cd than they can in person without the fancy mixing boards, flattering lights and teams of professionals working their baby hearts out to make you look good.

Dejie needs no such entourage because she’s got *talent*, and Iíd challenge that sheís gives a better show in person than on CD (but you should still buy it). You could hear the smile in her sweet honey voice just as clearly as you could see it on her face, she loves what she’s doing when she’s on stage and the spirit is infectious. You know the story: we laughed, we cried, we giggled wildly and looked at each other in amazement hoping the fun wouldn’t end while she flirted and charmed us all from the stage.

You should have been there ñ a photographer from People, fellow Atlanta Metro Blogger Paulie and I were all in attendance – check us – with the star to boot! Errr….she’s the hot blonde in the middle, Paulie is second from the left and I’m the crazy leaner on the right. I’d offer you info on who the others are but you wouldn’t be able to handle it.

As if that wasnít reason enough, where else can you get avocado wedges with tequila shots?

Iím just sayiní. Have an avocado, have a shot, have a laugh – but what’s most important is that you know it’s never too late to chase your dream and make it happen. All it takes is passion, tenacity, and just maybe – a guardian angel.