Classic cars, premium cigars, an inspiring keynote and a special recognition for 2LOUD Magazine's co-founder highlighted the evening.
Black Excellence, First-Class Everything: Houston Honors Its Own in Style
HOUSTON, TX — When Houston celebrates its own, it knows how to make an occasion out of it.
Tuesday evening's First Class Men of Houston celebration brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and distinguished guests for a night where Black excellence met luxury, recognition, and genuine Houston hospitality.
Presented by La’Torria Lemon and Lemon Lime Light Media, the event honored men making meaningful contributions to the community while creating an atmosphere that was equal parts elegant and welcoming.
A First-Class Experience
The venue itself was part of the experience, featuring an impressive collection of classic automobiles that provided a distinctive backdrop for the evening.
Guests enjoyed cigars courtesy of Candace Ford and LLC Cigars, Jaguar Wine, cocktails, and an opportunity to connect with familiar faces and new acquaintances.
There was plenty to appreciate, but the evening wasn't simply about the finer things. It was about recognizing the people behind the accomplishments.
Corey Haynes | Photo by David Settle
A Special Moment for 2LOUD
Among the evening's honorees was Corey Haynes, co-founder and editor-in-chief of 2LOUD Magazine, recognized as part of the First Class Men of Houston celebration.
For a publication that has spent years documenting Houston's entertainment, culture, and the people moving the city forward, the recognition marked a meaningful moment.
While 2LOUD is accustomed to being behind the camera capturing other people's milestones, this time its own co-founder had an opportunity to step into the spotlight.
The 2026 First Class Men of Houston Honorees
Earnest Pugh – Gospel Recording Artist
Carl Crawford – Former Major League Baseball Player
Quiet Money Dot – Recording Artist
Jeff Shelley – Comedian
S.Dott – Zydeco Recording Artist
Je’Caryous Johnson – Playwright and Director
Bobby Swearington – Fort Bend Memorial Planning Center
Joe Kelly – Attorney
Nate Griffin – FOX 26 Sports Anchor
Noke D – Music Executive
Corey Haynes – Editor-and-chief/ Founder 2LOUD Magazine
Isaac “Chill” Yowman – Director and Producer
Blaze & Black – Rap Duo
Gundy – Food Content Creator and Marketer
Marcus Bowers – Black Wall Street and She's Happy Hair
J. Bachelor – Radio One
Amir Diamond – Radio One
LC Pollard – Serial Entrepreneur
Yung Al – Recording Artist
KG Smooth – Syndicated Radio Personality
J-Que – Program Director, Radio One
Nate Howard – Indigo Marketing
Burn the Whole Candle
Justin Martin | Photo by David Settle
One of the night's most memorable moments came during the keynote address from the attorney behind BadCrash.com., Justin Martin.
His message centered on maximizing every God-given ability and refusing to leave potential untapped.
He illustrated the point with a candle burning inside a glass jar. At the end of a person's life, he suggested, the candle should be completely consumed, leaving only the dark residue along the sides of the jar and the wick holders at the bottom.
In other words, don't leave this life with gifts, opportunities, and abilities you never used.
It was a powerful message for a room filled with individuals being celebrated for what they've accomplished—and a reminder that there is always more to give.
Celebrating the Culture
Throughout the evening, honorees and guests exchanged congratulations, shared stories, enjoyed the atmosphere, and celebrated the contributions of Houston's men.
La’Torria Lemon | Photo by David Settle
La’Torria Lemon and Lemon Lime Light Media created an experience that combined recognition with the kind of fellowship that makes an event memorable long after the awards have been presented.
From the classic cars and cigars to the keynote and celebration of achievement, First Class Men of Houston was a reminder that Black luxury isn't just about what you have. It's also about what you build, contribute, and leave behind.
And for 2LOUD Magazine, the evening carried an additional distinction: documenting another moment in Houston's cultural story while being recognized as part of it.