Pynnderella, The Fairytale Connoisseur
In the heart of Culver City, under soft lights that seemed to hum with anticipation, Hustle Rite Consulting opened its studio doors for a night that felt like stepping into a storybook. The studio, owned by his manager Vic The Ruler, welcomed a handpicked circle of trusted media to experience the magic of LARRENWONG.
A former NFL player turned soulful R&B artist, LARRENWONG has a story that reads like a modern fairy tale. He says sports were never his first love, but football gave him the discipline and grit that now guide his music. The transition was seamless, the teamwork, focus, and drive that once fueled his athletic career now flow into his voice and his ability to discern strong entertainment teammates.
Music has always been in his blood. He’s played guitar since he was eight, along with trumpet, piano, and bassoon. His grandfather, from Brooklyn on his father’s side, was a jazz musician, and his father was a DJ. They never told him to pursue music, but instruments were always available… so he taught himself. That musical lineage and self-taught mastery weave through everything he creates, giving his sound depth, soul, and a touch of magic.
Two moments shine like crown jewels in his journey: his first tour, 15 cities with Dani Leigh, which he describes as an incredible adventure, and performing at the Staples Center for the Sparks, a night he still remembers as monumental. Musical inspirations like D’Angelo, Devante Swing, Miles Davis, Beyoncé, and Prince weave through his artistry, and he dreams of collaborating with Raphael Saadiq, saying, “I’m like a mix of Raphael Saadiq x D’Angelo if they were born 20 years later.”
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While his first album, 4th & Long, tells the story of his life and truth, last night’s listening offered something new and intimate.
While LARRENWONG’s project is still being titled, the evening unfolded track by track. Worth Your Time opened with booming, silky R&B. “I’ll give you the world, you just gotta take it” had to be my favorite lyrics on the record, the bridge carrying a perfect 90s structure that made hearts sway.
Fun Fact: LARRENWONG actually produced this song.
Mystery followed, a cruise-like beat whispering secrets of fleeting encounters. “She’s a mystery lady… just a crimson and she’s gone,” he sang, capturing the magic of someone who appears and vanishes after you’ve gotten to know them, leaving you enchanted.
Watch My Back carried longing in its veins. “Girl, you should know that… ain’t nothin’ better for you. I’ll spend that cheddar for you,”LARRENWONG crooned, the room leaning into every note of missing-you devotion.
Right My Wrongs was tender and soft. “I phucked up. I’m human,” he confessed before playing the track, each lyric floating over us like a delicate spell. Old-school J Holiday and Aaliyah vibes shimmered through the melody. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause and feel every word. And I, Pynnderella, would take my man back in an instant if he sang this while we were going through it. Others in the room felt like this song should be on an after-dark bedroom playlist as well.
Don’t Wait painted bittersweet reflection. “I ain’t gone lie. I had a situation in college, I was on Instagram the other day and saw her getting her lifted up in front of the Eiffel Tower. She’s married now…”
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“Don’t you wait too long, cause you never know when another man comes along,” are lyrics in the record that definitely hit home with me, too.
Positive shifted the air, a gentle interlude of hope. “All my songs are about women. Let me talk about something else,” he smiled. “I’m staying positive. I got a lot to give.”
Break My Promise reminded me of Trap Soul’s hypnotic energy, smooth and seductive. Better With You followed, “That’s why I’m better with you. With you I feel so brand new.”
The playful, bedroom-vibe tracks came next. Bonnet Buster is exactly what it sounds like: “I’ll have you running up the wall. I’m tryna knock your bonnet off.” Back It Up kept the intimate energy alive, making the night feel electric and personal.
Brut x Rosé champagne flowed from the moment guests arrived, and Strips n Dipsdelivered delectable chicken tenders and French fries with their amazing dips: Jerk Ranch, Buffalo Sauce, Teriyaki, Nashville Hot, Garlic Ranch, BBQ, Ranch, Sweet Chili, and Honey Mustard.
I tried Jerk Ranch (Mmm, so good, it was giving jerk chicken spice), Sweet Chili (I love a sweet and spicy flavor!), and Nashville Hot (more a dry heat but yummy if you’re into spicy!). Jerk Ranch is a fan favorite! 10/10!
Gift bags included T-shirt merch, a mini Hennessy, printed portraits, and heartfelt postcards: a personal touch that made everyone feel like they were part of something special. And, of course, I made sure my shirt was a large so I could wear it as a dress.
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The room was curated by his team for very special, trusted media: Complex, The Shaderoom, LA Sentinel, The Justified, The Quintessential Gentlemen, and Pynnderella for Hype Hair.
LARRENWONG’s listening party was a celebration of talent, passion, and the magic that happens when an artist pours his soul into his work and is supported by his team. It was a night where music, elegance, and dreams intertwined, leaving everyone in attendance spellbound.
A huge Thank you, Kelley Tarver, for the invitation and vibes.
Although all the songs we heard haven’t been selected for the newest project, I’m excited to hear the finished product!
The culture moves quick, but my pyn is quicker.
Pynnderella, The Fairytale Connoisseur
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