Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1523410
98 maconmagazine.com | June/July 2024 ANTHONY HOWARD Two years in, Anthony Howard reflects on how Serenity Entertainment Complex – his intimate listening room for grown folks – has brought new energy to Macon nightlife. When the keyboardist and drummer isn't playing R&B, gospel, Southern rock, Southern soul, country, or bluegrass, he's running and promoting his venue on Poplar Street, operating his mobile video game truck, Gamez on Wheelz, or serving as music director of Greater New Bethel Baptist Church. With solid roots in Central Georgia – born and raised active in Bibb County School District and the church – he felt he had the right network and mindset to create the kind of venue he wanted to see for his hometown. When you started Serenity, what community need were you looking to meet? You've got to create a space for everybody – all demographics, all genres. Our DJs and our artists have to be multicultural, from Southern rock, soul, and rap from the East to West Coast, reggae music, Zydeco, New Orleans swing. We have people who come in saying, "Hey, I ain't from here. Do y'all play this in Macon? Do y'all play that?" And we're a place where we can say "yes, we got that for you. Come on down to Serenity and see what Macon's all about." A space for everyone – that's a high bar. NewTown Macon is an independent nonprofit, making Downtown Macon safe, beautiful, fun, affordable, and locally led. Their comprehensive approach to downtown development has resulted in 80% storefront occupancy, 94% loft occupancy, and 1M+ annual event attendance. In this series, we turn to the passionate Maconites, those who call this vibrant city home, to curate their very own guides to experiencing Downtown Macon. Whether you are a resident seeking to rediscover your city or a curious visitor eager to immerse yourself in the local culture, these guides will open doors to new ideas and lasting memories. Discover what defines Downtown Macon: from feeling the energy of our bustling streets and exploring historic landmarks to savoring the mouthwatering cuisine and engaging with the vibrant arts and music scene. We'll let the insiders share more. M y M a c o n I N P A R T N E R S H I P W I T H N E W T O W N M A C O N I N S I D E R G U I D E S T O D O W N T O W N M A C O N Image courtesy of Anthony Howard.