× Messages of Self-Importance and Self-Confidence Provide Undeniable Breakthrough
By Nicole Gould
brBack in 2004, there wasn’t a single girl who didn’t belt the lyrics to JoJo's hit singles “Leave (Get Out)” and “Too Little Too Late” at the top of their lungs. At the age of 13, this singer/songwriter made pop history after becoming the youngest solo artist to ever reach No. 1 on Billboard Mainstream Top 40.
In her most recent album, the 26-year-old exemplifies a level of confidence that fans have longed for and it took no time for them to rekindle their love for the artist.
JoJo will be performing at the 9:30 Club Tuesday, March 28th, 7 p.m. as part of her Mad Love Tour.
We had a chance to ask JoJo a few questions about her career
James McCartney: Casting his Own Shadow

By Aaron Kilbourne
James McCartney literally has music in his genes. As the son of the legendary Paul and Linda McCartney, James has been surrounded by music since birth and spent his first two years of life on the road with his touring parents.
brMcCartney has cultivated a robust international profile through tirelessly touring the UK, Europe, and the United States, including a sold out three show residency at The Islington in London. His debut album, Me, released in 2013 showcasing his talents to the world. It was an honest, intimate, and deeply personal collection of songs. McCartney wanted the world to know who he was as an artist, not just as a last name.
James McCartney will be performing at Rams Head On Stage Thursday, March 30th, 7 p.m.
Check out our exclusive interview with him here.
2017 Flower Show: Modern HOMEsteading
brThursday, March 23rd-26th, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
brFor over 25 years, Homestead Gardens has presented a themed flower show every March to celebrate the coming of spring and dust off the doldrums of winter. The theme of the 2017 Flower Show is Modern Homesteading - a lifestyle of self-sufficiency. Vignettes designed by Homestead’s stellar team are created out of thousands of flowers, plants, trees, and shrubs to depict the transition the gardens, backyards, and farms have made from past to present. Attendees will “walk through time,” beginning in the early 1900’s to the present. The vignettes will reflect the era inspired gardens, landscape, décor, and color - lots of color.
Canines & Cocktails for a Cause
brFriday, March 24th, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
brMingle with animal-lovers, fetch raffle tickets for a chance to win great prices, and sip refreshments. All proceeds from raffle and refreshments are donated to benefiting Greyhound Pets of America. Well-behaved people & dogs are invited!
Colonial Rum Tasting with Blackwater Distilling
brFriday, March 24th, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
brA fun evening with Blackwater Distilling involving rums and rum cocktails inspired by colonial recipes. London Town's Executive Director, Rod Cofield, will give a short presentation about drinking rum in the colonial period. Blackwater Distilling will talk about the research and creation behind their rums. Includes light fare generously supplied by Whole Foods of Annapolis. Menus includes jerk chicken canapes, ginger batter asparagus, and tequila lime spiced cocktail shrimp
A Symphony of Colors
brFriday, March 24 and Saturday, March25th, 8 p.m.
brRe-discover some of the most influential composers in the history of symphonic music when you compare their different styles and their unique color palette as portrayed in a few of their most exemplary compositions at Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s fourth Masterworks Concert. And a true symphony of colors is what you will be able to hear from the violin of James Ehnes, one of today’s hottest soloists, with conductor José-Luis Novo.
Maryland Day
Messages of Self-Importance and Self-Confidence Provide Undeniable Breakthrough
By Nicole Gould
brBack in 2004, there wasn’t a single girl who didn’t belt the lyrics to JoJo's hit singles “Leave (Get Out)” and “Too Little Too Late” at the top of their lungs. At the age of 13, this singer/songwriter made pop history after becoming the youngest solo artist to ever reach No. 1 on Billboard Mainstream Top 40.
In her most recent album, the 26-year-old exemplifies a level of confidence that fans have longed for and it took no time for them to rekindle their love for the artist.
JoJo will be performing at the 9:30 Club Tuesday, March 28th, 7 p.m. as part of her Mad Love Tour.
We had a chance to ask JoJo a few questions about her career
James McCartney: Casting his Own Shadow
Photo courtesy of Grandstand Media & Management
By Aaron Kilbourne
James McCartney literally has music in his genes. As the son of the legendary Paul and Linda McCartney, James has been surrounded by music since birth and spent his first two years of life on the road with his touring parents.
brMcCartney has cultivated a robust international profile through tirelessly touring the UK, Europe, and the United States, including a sold out three show residency at The Islington in London. His debut album, Me, released in 2013 showcasing his talents to the world. It was an honest, intimate, and deeply personal collection of songs. McCartney wanted the world to know who he was as an artist, not just as a last name.
James McCartney will be performing at Rams Head On Stage Thursday, March 30th, 7 p.m.
Check out our exclusive interview with him here.
The What's Up? Weekend Rundown
Anne Arundel County
2017 Flower Show: Modern HOMEsteading
brThursday, March 23rd-26th, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
brFor over 25 years, Homestead Gardens has presented a themed flower show every March to celebrate the coming of spring and dust off the doldrums of winter. The theme of the 2017 Flower Show is Modern Homesteading - a lifestyle of self-sufficiency. Vignettes designed by Homestead’s stellar team are created out of thousands of flowers, plants, trees, and shrubs to depict the transition the gardens, backyards, and farms have made from past to present. Attendees will “walk through time,” beginning in the early 1900’s to the present. The vignettes will reflect the era inspired gardens, landscape, décor, and color - lots of color.
Canines & Cocktails for a Cause
brFriday, March 24th, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
brMingle with animal-lovers, fetch raffle tickets for a chance to win great prices, and sip refreshments. All proceeds from raffle and refreshments are donated to benefiting Greyhound Pets of America. Well-behaved people & dogs are invited!
Colonial Rum Tasting with Blackwater Distilling
brFriday, March 24th, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
brA fun evening with Blackwater Distilling involving rums and rum cocktails inspired by colonial recipes. London Town's Executive Director, Rod Cofield, will give a short presentation about drinking rum in the colonial period. Blackwater Distilling will talk about the research and creation behind their rums. Includes light fare generously supplied by Whole Foods of Annapolis. Menus includes jerk chicken canapes, ginger batter asparagus, and tequila lime spiced cocktail shrimp
A Symphony of Colors
brFriday, March 24 and Saturday, March25th, 8 p.m.
brRe-discover some of the most influential composers in the history of symphonic music when you compare their different styles and their unique color palette as portrayed in a few of their most exemplary compositions at Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s fourth Masterworks Concert. And a true symphony of colors is what you will be able to hear from the violin of James Ehnes, one of today’s hottest soloists, with conductor José-Luis Novo.
Maryland Day
Friday, March 24th through Sunday, March 25th, times vary.
brCelebrate Maryland's birthday this year with a weekend-long celebration of its art, heritage, and culture at 20+ locations in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. It’s the perfect weekend to crawl out of your winter hibernation and explore Maryland on its birthday weekend! Maryland's birthday is officially on March 25th, a state holiday that commemorates the formal founding of the colony of Maryland, when settlers from England celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving on St. Clement’s Island in what is now St. Mary’s County. This year, 20+ locations in Anne Arundel County will be celebrating the weekend by offering tours, events, concerts, games, and hands-on demonstrations that are free or only $1 per person. This makes it an affordable weekend to get out and explore Maryland with your family and friends. For more information visit Marylandday.org.
Emerald Ball Gala
brSaturday March 25th, 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
brBring your heart & courage and join the Hospice of the Chesapeake for an evening in the Emerald City at their 2017 Emerald Ball. The gala is the nonprofit’s signature black tie event and features an open bar, fine cuisine, a silent and live auction, live music, and dancing! The largest fundraiser of the year, the gala draws close to 500 attendees and directly supports the mission and programs of Hospice of the Chesapeake.
Baltimore & Annapolis Trail Marathon and Half Marathon
brSunday March 26th, 7:30 a.m.
brEntering its 26th year, the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail Marathon and Half Marathon will take place at Severna Park High School. The course will run approximately two miles on residential streets with the remainder on the B & A Trail, including one significant hill. The marathon course of 26.2 miles will close at six hours and there is no strict time limit for the half marathon. All finishers will receive medals while there will also be male and female overall awards, masters awards, and age group awards. Once you’ve completed the race, head into the heated school cafeteria for post-race massages, music, and food. This year’s race is dedicated in the memory of Ben Moore, Lt. Col, Ret, USMC.
Oysters and Wine on the Bay
brSunday, March 26th, 2–5 p.m.
brCrabs and Old Bay. Rockfish and lemon butter. Crab cakes and tartar sauce. The bounty of the Bay presents plenty of delectable combinations. But what about oysters and wine? Join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation for a delightful afternoon along the Chesapeake Bay with Wine Cellars of Annapolis and Grapes Wine Bar to learn how this unconventional pair is perfect together. Also, featuring Chesapeake Bay themed passed hor d’hoeuvres, live music, authentic Smith Island cake, and stunning views of the Bay.
brbr
Harlem Globetrotters
brThursday, March 23rd, 7 p.m.
brThe world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center part of their 2017 World Tour. The famed team will feature a star-studded roster that includes Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, Thunder Law, Bull Bullard and Cheese Chisholm—plus female stars TNT Lister and Ace Jackson. The Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment. Every game will showcase incredible ball handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy, and unequaled fan interaction. New this season, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first four-point line. The four-point line will be located 30 feet from the basket—6 feet, 3 inches beyond the top of the NBA’s current three-point line. You won't want your family to miss it.
2017 Top Dog Bow Wow & Meow Gala
brFriday, March 24th, 7-11 p.m.
brThe Humane Society of Charles County will host the 2017 Top Dog "Bow Wow & Meow Gala" to benefit the homeless pets. Join them and laugh your tails off and put your paws on the dance floor with the nationally acclaimed entertainment performed by The Fabulous Bel Airs and comic Dan Nainan. Ticket purchase includes professionally carved roast beef, crab imperial, stuffed flounder, dessert bar and two premium drink tickets. There will also be a professional photographer for the night, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and much more!
David Kim & Matt Brower
brFriday, March 24th 7:30 p.m.
brAs part of 2016-2017 Premier Artist lineup, The Washington College Concert Series welcomes David Kim on violin, & Matt Brower on piano. The concert will include selections from Handel’s Sonata in D Major, 1 Nr. 13; Kroll’s Banjo and Fiddle; Massenet’s Meditation from the Opera Thaïs and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64.
Witness for the Prosecution (Opening Night)
brFriday, March 24th - April 8th, 8 p.m.
brGet ready for countless twists and turns - Agatha Christie’s most celebrated court-room drama is one you will not want to miss! Based off of Christie’s classic short story, Witness for the Prosecution is a whodunit sure to keep you guessing right up until the end. When simple man Leonard Vole stands on trial for the murder of his beneficiary, all fingers point to his guilt – including his wife’s!
Rotary's Oyster Roast
brSaturday March 25th, 12- 4 p.m.
brThis year's Oyster Roast will be held at Long Wharf Park from noon to 4 PM and will feature oysters roasted, scalded and on the half shell. There will be dogs and burgers for the non-believers. Music will be provided by Byrd Dog and the Road Kings.
Faith Filled Women’s Conference
brSaturday, March 25th, 10 a.m.
brThe sixth annual Faith Filled Women's Conference is returning to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. The event is open to women of all ages, stages and backgrounds who want to grow in their faith and connect with other women on the same journey. The conference will feature inspirational speakers, uplifting praise music, unique vendors and irreplaceable faith-filled moments with friends, as well as a delicious buffet lunch. The keynote speaker will be Elisa Morgan, who was named by "Christianity Today" as one of the Top 50 women influencing today's church and culture. Morgan has authored more than 25 books and is co-host of the nationally syndicated radio program "Discover the Word."
The Eastern Shore Bridal Show
brSaturday, March 25th, 12–4 p.m.
brThe Eastern Shore has become a sought-after destination for brides, and The Eastern Shore Bridal Show is the ideal way to explore our local wedding services and experience our treasured venues. The Eastern Shore Bridal Show is headquartered at the Historic Kent Manor Inn in Stevensville where attendees can enjoy the beauty of one of the Eastern Shore’s most picturesque settings with over 50 area vendors, a large array of samplings, door prizes, and swag.
Y in Central Maryland’s Spring Eggstravaganza
brSaturday, March 25th, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
brThe Y in Central Maryland will hold a Spring Eggstravaganza at its Y Centers. Enjoy a family egg hunt and spring-themed activities at this free, family-friendly event. Times and activities vary by location, so please contact your local Y Center for specific details. All attendees must register in advance.
Pottercon
brSunday March 26th, 2 p.m.
brJoin your fellow Harry Potter fans across the country for PotterCon, the best day-drinking and mingling destination for witches, wizards, squibs, and magical creatures alike. Find out if you're a daring Gryffindor, wise Ravenclaw, cunning Slytherin, or loyal Hufflepuff during the live Sorting ceremony, strut your stuff in Madam Malkin's Costume Contest, and show off your inner Hermione during the trivia contest. Dig your dusty old robes out of storage, accio your friends, and come throw back some Butterbeers with other magic-loving adults.
Stevie Nicks
brSunday March 26th, 7 p.m.
brDue to huge ticket demands and stellar reviews for the 24 Karat Gold Tour, the legendary gold dust queen Stevie Nicks, a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and multi-platinum Grammy Award winning solo artist, has happily agreed to add a new series of shows and continue singing and dancing across the stages of North America performing her classic hits along with longtime fan favorites from throughout her entire career as a solo artist and member of Fleetwood Mac. Nicks has collectively sold more than140 million albums.
Best Of 2017: Don't Forget to Vote!
brVoting for Best Of Real Estate, Home & Garden 2017 is Now Live Until March 31st. Vote online now!
What's Up? Media Promotions
brWhat’s Up? Media loves our community and wants to give back. Check out our promotions page for opportunities to win amazing giveaways such as tickets to the most happening local events around, gift cards to your favorite local restaurants, and more! More details here.
brCelebrate Maryland's birthday this year with a weekend-long celebration of its art, heritage, and culture at 20+ locations in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. It’s the perfect weekend to crawl out of your winter hibernation and explore Maryland on its birthday weekend! Maryland's birthday is officially on March 25th, a state holiday that commemorates the formal founding of the colony of Maryland, when settlers from England celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving on St. Clement’s Island in what is now St. Mary’s County. This year, 20+ locations in Anne Arundel County will be celebrating the weekend by offering tours, events, concerts, games, and hands-on demonstrations that are free or only $1 per person. This makes it an affordable weekend to get out and explore Maryland with your family and friends. For more information visit Marylandday.org.
Emerald Ball Gala
brSaturday March 25th, 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
brBring your heart & courage and join the Hospice of the Chesapeake for an evening in the Emerald City at their 2017 Emerald Ball. The gala is the nonprofit’s signature black tie event and features an open bar, fine cuisine, a silent and live auction, live music, and dancing! The largest fundraiser of the year, the gala draws close to 500 attendees and directly supports the mission and programs of Hospice of the Chesapeake.
Baltimore & Annapolis Trail Marathon and Half Marathon
brSunday March 26th, 7:30 a.m.
brEntering its 26th year, the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail Marathon and Half Marathon will take place at Severna Park High School. The course will run approximately two miles on residential streets with the remainder on the B & A Trail, including one significant hill. The marathon course of 26.2 miles will close at six hours and there is no strict time limit for the half marathon. All finishers will receive medals while there will also be male and female overall awards, masters awards, and age group awards. Once you’ve completed the race, head into the heated school cafeteria for post-race massages, music, and food. This year’s race is dedicated in the memory of Ben Moore, Lt. Col, Ret, USMC.
Oysters and Wine on the Bay
brSunday, March 26th, 2–5 p.m.
brCrabs and Old Bay. Rockfish and lemon butter. Crab cakes and tartar sauce. The bounty of the Bay presents plenty of delectable combinations. But what about oysters and wine? Join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation for a delightful afternoon along the Chesapeake Bay with Wine Cellars of Annapolis and Grapes Wine Bar to learn how this unconventional pair is perfect together. Also, featuring Chesapeake Bay themed passed hor d’hoeuvres, live music, authentic Smith Island cake, and stunning views of the Bay.
brbr
Eastern Shore
Harlem Globetrotters
brThursday, March 23rd, 7 p.m.
brThe world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center part of their 2017 World Tour. The famed team will feature a star-studded roster that includes Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, Thunder Law, Bull Bullard and Cheese Chisholm—plus female stars TNT Lister and Ace Jackson. The Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment. Every game will showcase incredible ball handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy, and unequaled fan interaction. New this season, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first four-point line. The four-point line will be located 30 feet from the basket—6 feet, 3 inches beyond the top of the NBA’s current three-point line. You won't want your family to miss it.
2017 Top Dog Bow Wow & Meow Gala
brFriday, March 24th, 7-11 p.m.
brThe Humane Society of Charles County will host the 2017 Top Dog "Bow Wow & Meow Gala" to benefit the homeless pets. Join them and laugh your tails off and put your paws on the dance floor with the nationally acclaimed entertainment performed by The Fabulous Bel Airs and comic Dan Nainan. Ticket purchase includes professionally carved roast beef, crab imperial, stuffed flounder, dessert bar and two premium drink tickets. There will also be a professional photographer for the night, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and much more!
David Kim & Matt Brower
brFriday, March 24th 7:30 p.m.
brAs part of 2016-2017 Premier Artist lineup, The Washington College Concert Series welcomes David Kim on violin, & Matt Brower on piano. The concert will include selections from Handel’s Sonata in D Major, 1 Nr. 13; Kroll’s Banjo and Fiddle; Massenet’s Meditation from the Opera Thaïs and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64.
Witness for the Prosecution (Opening Night)
brFriday, March 24th - April 8th, 8 p.m.
brGet ready for countless twists and turns - Agatha Christie’s most celebrated court-room drama is one you will not want to miss! Based off of Christie’s classic short story, Witness for the Prosecution is a whodunit sure to keep you guessing right up until the end. When simple man Leonard Vole stands on trial for the murder of his beneficiary, all fingers point to his guilt – including his wife’s!
Rotary's Oyster Roast
brSaturday March 25th, 12- 4 p.m.
brThis year's Oyster Roast will be held at Long Wharf Park from noon to 4 PM and will feature oysters roasted, scalded and on the half shell. There will be dogs and burgers for the non-believers. Music will be provided by Byrd Dog and the Road Kings.
Faith Filled Women’s Conference
brSaturday, March 25th, 10 a.m.
brThe sixth annual Faith Filled Women's Conference is returning to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. The event is open to women of all ages, stages and backgrounds who want to grow in their faith and connect with other women on the same journey. The conference will feature inspirational speakers, uplifting praise music, unique vendors and irreplaceable faith-filled moments with friends, as well as a delicious buffet lunch. The keynote speaker will be Elisa Morgan, who was named by "Christianity Today" as one of the Top 50 women influencing today's church and culture. Morgan has authored more than 25 books and is co-host of the nationally syndicated radio program "Discover the Word."
The Eastern Shore Bridal Show
brSaturday, March 25th, 12–4 p.m.
brThe Eastern Shore has become a sought-after destination for brides, and The Eastern Shore Bridal Show is the ideal way to explore our local wedding services and experience our treasured venues. The Eastern Shore Bridal Show is headquartered at the Historic Kent Manor Inn in Stevensville where attendees can enjoy the beauty of one of the Eastern Shore’s most picturesque settings with over 50 area vendors, a large array of samplings, door prizes, and swag.
Regional
Y in Central Maryland’s Spring Eggstravaganza
brSaturday, March 25th, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
brThe Y in Central Maryland will hold a Spring Eggstravaganza at its Y Centers. Enjoy a family egg hunt and spring-themed activities at this free, family-friendly event. Times and activities vary by location, so please contact your local Y Center for specific details. All attendees must register in advance.
Pottercon
brSunday March 26th, 2 p.m.
brJoin your fellow Harry Potter fans across the country for PotterCon, the best day-drinking and mingling destination for witches, wizards, squibs, and magical creatures alike. Find out if you're a daring Gryffindor, wise Ravenclaw, cunning Slytherin, or loyal Hufflepuff during the live Sorting ceremony, strut your stuff in Madam Malkin's Costume Contest, and show off your inner Hermione during the trivia contest. Dig your dusty old robes out of storage, accio your friends, and come throw back some Butterbeers with other magic-loving adults.
Stevie Nicks
brSunday March 26th, 7 p.m.
brDue to huge ticket demands and stellar reviews for the 24 Karat Gold Tour, the legendary gold dust queen Stevie Nicks, a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and multi-platinum Grammy Award winning solo artist, has happily agreed to add a new series of shows and continue singing and dancing across the stages of North America performing her classic hits along with longtime fan favorites from throughout her entire career as a solo artist and member of Fleetwood Mac. Nicks has collectively sold more than140 million albums.
Best Of 2017: Don't Forget to Vote!
brVoting for Best Of Real Estate, Home & Garden 2017 is Now Live Until March 31st. Vote online now!What’s Up? Pop-Up Happy Hour
brJoin us Wednesday, March 29th at Rip's Country Inn from 5:30pm-7:30pm, to have a sample of Rip’s Homemade Meatloaf and enjoy a drink special or two. RSVP Online Here
What's Up? Media Promotions
brWhat’s Up? Media loves our community and wants to give back. Check out our promotions page for opportunities to win amazing giveaways such as tickets to the most happening local events around, gift cards to your favorite local restaurants, and more! More details here.