Q Parker was got intimate with the crowd.

Black Men Revealed, a panel discussion held by Magic 102.3 at The Fillmore in Silver Spring, Md., was an opportunity for the ladies to pick the minds of distinguished (and VERY attractive)  men they love. The group was made up of singer Eric Benet, actor Lamont Rucker, Fox-5 anchor Wisdom Martin, singer Raheem DeVaughn and pastor/ playwright Jay Camron. Host, radio personality Courtney Hicks asked the guys a lie of questions ranging from taboo topics like “Why do black men of a certain level of status turn to women of other ethnic backgrounds?” and “How can a woman compete for a man’s attention when there are far more eligible and available women than men?”

Image of The Fillmore theater in Silver Spring, Md.

The panelist worked very hard to be real without being hurtful. They explained the way they think and confirmed opinions through hi-5’s, nodding and of course with a panel full of singers, gospel riff’s as if in church. Pastor Camron explained that a lot of men are learning how to be men through trial and error due to the lack of male role models and instances of fatherless homes. He also suggested that women not “over commit without a commitment.” Which means, don’t play the role of “wife” if he’s only treating you as a part-time lover, rather pace things slowly, become friends first, and see where things go.

Martin shared his story of how he and his wife had been friends since the early 90’s, even set each other up on dates with their friends, only to eventually decide that they were indeed meant to be together. Martin said he and his wife of 10 years have shared all kinds of experiences together, like career success, heartbreak, college and the occasional fight, and he attributes the success of their marriage to this rapport and foundation.

Singer Q Parker performing.

Rucker and Parker also put forth the notion that women shouldn’t be so concerned with finding a man, but focusing on being happy with themselves for themselves. Work on your career, find hobbies of interest, volunteer and the rest will fall in place, expressed Rucker. “Often times, it’s the places you don’t go that the man of dreams is waiting for you,” said Rucker to a question-asker in the crowd.

Following the Q&A portion, Q hit the stage to serenade the ladies and promote his forthcoming debut solo album “The MANual” set to be released at the end of this month. Below is a clip of Q Parker performing “Show You How” for your viewing enjoyment. More performance clips to come.

Lauren of TheBobbyPen.com with singer Q Parker.