Words by Adrian McQueen / Photos by Leon Brittain, Jeff Cutler & Adrian McQueen
The Viceroy Santa Monica was the setting to commune as the Lincoln Motor Company and Automotive Rhythms presented the next chapter of Lincoln luxury to showcase the all-new 2015 Lincoln MKC, the brand’s first small, premium utility and the 2015 Lincoln Navigator, Lincoln’s full-size luxury SUV. And for guests seeking to experience a Lincoln sedan, both the MKZ and MKS were on hand to delight and excite; especially with elevations of the next generation of performance and opulence from the brand. Shawn Thompson, Director of Multicultural Affairs, enthusiastically and poignantly pointed out, “These are not Towncars anymore.” The sleek designs and power of Lincoln solidify the fact that the American company is moving forward with reinventing their DNA.
This was not your routine affair, but something special whereas attendees were provided the opportunity to experience the Lincoln brand, complete with test drives of the model of their choice. Sunny skies and palm trees blowing in the wind along the Santa Monica coastline created an ideal scene for all partaking in the informational Ride and Drive. In typical Automotive Rhythms fashion, patrons also enjoyed an afternoon of art illustrations, couture fashion, complimentary food and beverages and live entertainment.
An Afternoon of Indulgence was hosted by mother, international model, designer, wine mogul and TV personality Nicole Murphy. Given her powerful impact within the entertainment industry, it was only fitting that she put her stamp of approval on the indulgent afternoon which kicked off the 2014 LA Auto Show. This spectacular event was accentuated by style and cutting-edge designs from House of Kas upon the backdrop of the beautiful Santa Monica Pier. A live art installation was performed by Demont Peekaso while Grammy nominated recording artist Raheem DeVaughn engaged the crowd with his melodious music during two energetic sets. Lincoln’s three pillars — Art, Design and Culture — were conveyed and synthesized perfectly by Automotive Rhythms which prides itself for creating memorable urban automotive experiences.
Lincoln’s MKC is the second of four all-new Lincoln vehicles due by 2016 with a powerful, and efficient all-EcoBoost engine lineup complemented by an array of premium amenities and technologies prioritizing comfort and convenience. We couldn’t mention this new Lincoln without pointing out the enhanced THX II Certified Audio System, an industry-first featuring THX-distributed bass technology and 14 right, center and left slot speaker assemblies.
As sleek and stylish as the Navigator and MKC are, the Viceroy Santa Monica was transformed into a stunning and intimate boutique for an Afternoon of Indulgence’s gathering of celebrities, pro athletes musicians, influencers and tastemakers.
THX also provided sounds and home entertainment through 60” HD screens, while DJ B-Hen sound-tracked the afternoon with an eclectic mix of soulful vibes. Lincoln aficionados dined on complimentary hors d’oeuvres from the Viceroy and tastings provided by Trapiche Wine. Dazing swag bags for all test drive participants came complete with Lincoln premium coolers, Mothers car care products, Boss Life Cigars, auto show tickets, specialty paintings and a $750 Lincoln discount toward the purchase of any new vehicle.
For six hours the venue remained occupied until the very last minute of Raheem’s closeout song. I guess it’s safe to say everyone had a good time. We’ll see you in 2015 for the 3rd Annual LA Auto Show Lincoln Journey experience. Happy Holidays and enjoy the photo stream!
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