Franklin’s Priscilla Warren, whose stage name is Alyriss, on June 21 will release her first CD, “The Journey.”

“I’m so excited,” Priscilla said. “There’s a little of something for everyone.”

The 39-year-old describes her music on her CD as neo-soul, almost like gumbo.

“There’s a couple of pop pieces,” Priscilla said.

Born and raised in the Checkerboard Square hamlet of Southampton County, she was inspired by her father, Cleon Bottoms. He performed with the Harmoniers of Branchville.

“My mom (Emma Bottoms) drug us to almost every show they had,” Priscilla said. “The stage can be addicting.”

After graduating from Southampton High School in 1990, Priscilla studied music at Howard University in Washington, D.C. She remained in Washington for 18 years, working in banking and mortgages. Priscilla returned to Franklin nearly three years ago.

She chose the stage name Alyriss for a reason.

“Whenever someone listens to my music, they say ‘you’re such a lyricist, the way you write your lyrics is just amazing.’ I’m really passionate about my lyrics.”

• Nearly 75 folks turned out for the free outdoor showing of “The Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” in Boykins on Saturday night.

Saw Boykins resident Kitty Lassiter, Southampton County Circuit Clerk Rick Francis and Boykins Mayor Spier Edwards. At the event hosted by Boykins Main Street Initiative, the sponsors sold soda and popcorn together for a $1 and cotton candy for $2.50.

Folks gathered in a vacant lot near Boykins Beans & Ice Cream with their lawn chairs and blankets.

This first-time effort had a few kinks, which should be worked out for the next outdoor movie, Edwards said.

There were problems with the sound system and the movie starting rather late since organizers were waiting for dusk.

“We’re planning another in a couple of weeks,” Edwards said. “We felt it was a success and will continue to have them.”