The Real Profiles of Rising Artistic Icons

Julie 'JV' Stanley: Author, Poet, & Editor Paving Her Own Way With Literary Verbose

2014-01-20T18:05:00.000-05:00

Welcome Kool World into the New Year 2014! We're returning back to RPRAI's Artists On The Come Up Series with the Latest Edition on respected Author & Poet (with a myriad of more to discover!) JV Stanley. For anyone who is reading our Artist Feature for the first time, having an actual writer is imperative to focus a spotlight on since 'writing' is a vehicle for many of us to express our full thoughts. Artistry allows us to have a voice through creative expression and just like art, it can be perceived 'one-sided' depending on how it is viewed. Therefore our purpose is to break the mold and enrich minds. In our meaningful and candid girl talk together we unearth the makings of the day-to-day life of your every-day writer: As a wife and mother in the balancing act of meeting needs & obligations of her family while finding time for herself, the challenges of staying committed to this "unconventional job" and never giving up on herself, describing how her work speaks to her through her voice AND as it speaks back to us, adding on the simple joys of life like her children, canning/jamming, 'walking across waterfalls' and lastly the challenge that every writer and artist faces: Rejection and set-backs while finding the faith and inner-strength to never give up. Stanley revels in the thought that her time is coming and she has no intention of giving up now when she has come so far especially with motivation ringing in her ears of her biggest supporter & influencer, her father - "Do what you love, the money will come later". The BEST advice to receive from someone you love in a field that doesn't hurt to have as much backing and support as possible. Spend a moment of your time and become immersed in the poeticism and introspectively captivating philosophical story-telling of Ms. Stanley. You'll feel as though you've known her all your life as our next 'ARTIST ON THE RISE'.

Hi Julie, it's pleasure engaging with you!

The first time we really talked was a few weeks ago and from what I know so far about you and reading your work you are a respected poet and author.
I had the opportunity to read your poem
"The Mortician of Inevitable Immortality" and
it really caught my eye. I knew I had to meet you after reading it because the content was good and worthwhile to read!

We must start where it all began to get the ball rolling of course! ;)

Where and when were you born?

I was born and raised in Lower Michigan on the twenty-sixth day of October in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and eighty at old-o-clock. (laughs) I realize I’m not that old, but sometimes I feel old.
Ah the nasty 30's! You're only 4 years older than me, and I refuse to feel "old" lol. If I'm keeping it young and sexy then you must as well JV ;)

Where do you currently reside?

During my senior year in high school, I immigrated to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where I morphed from city girl to country girl. I ended up graduating up here and fell in love with the area. My mom and stepfather moved and I decided to stick around. I used to work as a dealer at the casino in Baraga and I remember a number of times before I’d go to work, I’d walk on waterfalls. Yes, you heard me correctly.
Adventurer! I was like huh?!? Did she really say "waterfalls". The bible mentions Jesus Christ turning water to wine and walking on water, so I guess you're the modern-day version The Waterfall Walker, wow. Perhaps you can add to this unique skill you possess with explaining how you're actually walking across waterfalls. If there's a bridge involved then you aint that great lol.
My favorite pastime is walking on waterfalls. Immediately following said adventure, I’d mosey on into work with my pant legs soaked to the knees and no one was the wiser.

How many people can do that before work? The Upper Peninsula is gorgeous, albeit, brutally frigid during the winter months. It’s a bit of a common joke up here that we only have two seasons: winter and construction.
Without a doubt, who can literally say before work they walk on waterfalls lol. An adrenaline rush to say the least! Before work I'm usually running behind with time not being my best friend.

I live about forty-five minutes to an hour west of Marquette. Michiganders have a tendency of calculating distance by how long it takes to get to one’s destination. The Upper Peninsula is its own little world-tranquil, serene, almost like living in a completely different country. Those born in the U.P. call themselves ‘Yoopers’ and have delicately nicknamed those residing under the bridge…yes, you guessed it. Trolls. I’ve lived up here since 1999, so at this point I consider myself more of a ‘Trooper’ than a ‘Transplant’.

You may already be waiting for me to make a "wise-crack" on this -Yooper & Troll (even though they can't be avoided for laughs). Wish I knew names for the area where I live but all I can think of is "bubble-town" and entitled littletons lol.

Tell us about your childhood growing up.
Was it average, hard, special, unusual, or different?

If there’s anything that sets you a part from others share it too! Were you playing with Barbie and having tea parties or were you the tomboy who enjoyed just rough and tumble stuff?

I came from a broken, dysfunctional home. I think that is what initiated my love of writing. I kept a journal since 1989 and found that my prose was therapeutic. It allowed me to reflect upon my life and gather insight into what I was feeling and why. It later developed into poetry. A few of my friends in middle school started writing poetry and I found that I appreciated the unique art form. It was then when I began writing my own. In 8th grade, I had my first poem published which subsequently won an award. From there, I continued writing poetry and prose.

Now here's something I can definitely relate to! Writing did the same for me in my life but instead of finding my inner voice through poetry, fine art became my subconcious outlet for what I was feeling. I can still hear my teacher of four years in high school tell me to relax and not be so heavy-handed. lol.

During the summers of my youth, I would go fishing, hiking, and participate in a myriad of other outdoor activities. My stepfather fostered my love for the outdoors, including walking on waterfalls! When I wasn’t off on an adventure of some sort, I would be in my room reading and writing to music.

Beneficial mix to have the creative mind flow of being outdoors and to come back inside to release it out. Reading was big for me too! Did you have any genres or Artists in mind (at that age) that inspired your music writing style?

I didn’t have a strong relationship with my biological father until I was in my early twenties, despite the fact that I saw him once a week during his visitation during my youth. This was entirely due to the very strained and hostile way my mother portrayed him. It was later when I realized that I was a victim of parental alienation, which attenuated my connection to him while I was growing up. When I finally realized that my mother had manipulated me against my father, I was able to connect with my father in a way that I never dreamed possible. He fostered within me a reflective, more philosophically reserved way of approaching my problems and provided an attentive ear. I attribute my outlook on life as well as my ethics and personal philosophies to my father. His guidance and understanding through my adult years have proved immeasurable. I cannot go a few days without talking to him.

As for my mother, we have been estranged for the past three years and I would like to continue to maintain that distance.
The physical and psychological damage that I had endured in my youth has affected the way I perceive relationships. However, instead of succumbing to the troublesome nature of abuse, I find it an invaluable facet in how I perceive life and the relationships I have with other individuals. Instead of allowing it to define me, I use it as a source of strength by which I can overcome and empathize with others. Instead of allowing it to weaken me, I’ve used it as a way to strengthen my resolve (as well as inspire me).

omg how awful...

Again I can relate on this-more so on an emotional level. Your response to it is nonetheless similar as well :) You're a brilliant mind JV and it may have much to do with how you've managed to turn circumstances around for the better.

Our past does not make us who we are; abusing others is a conscious choice that we make due to either ignorance or laziness to learn the difference between right and wrong. There are far too many people who abuse others and blame it on the fact that they too, were abused. Instead of seeking out the help, therapy, or venues that various programs have to offer to assist in our own personal growth and development after enduring abuse, we resort to what we already know or assume. This is why the cycle of abuse continues-people lack the capacity to fix themselves despite that they recognize the warped ethics that they grew up with.

I couldn't agree more...
Wow it's amazing how much we have in common with views. With your wisdom/understanding you could also go into psychiatry/sociology. If many of us could channel into this form of thinking we would probably live healthier lives.

I model my parenting style to that of my father, who, while I was growing up, allowed me to live life to the fullest. From taking me to the circus every year, monster truck rallies, and even catering to my love of the arts by taking me to the Detroit Institute of Arts on regular occasions; he broadened my horizons in ways that have affected how I parent my own children. I cannot begin to explain how wonderful my father is and has been and I can only hope to live up to him. Between my father’s influence as well as my grandmother Zell’s influence, I am who I am today because of their love and because my father never gave up on me, regardless of the hostility and abuse that had hindered our relationship in my youth.

Taking a trip down memory lane, as a kid what did you want to be when you grew up?

Choir was one of the most influential classes I had in high school. I was in choir from freshman through senior year. At first, I wanted to be a singer and had the option to attend Central Michigan University through the recommendation from the university professor who attended one of my solo performances. As my writing developed, I started receiving recognition, and found a home within the literary community.
Again we share something in common! Are you my soul sister or what?!? ha. I was too fearful, unlike you who had the courage and recognition of your ability with pursuance from your mentor. It must be great to know where you can take your skill-sets in case one slows down or you want to do something different.

As a writer and poet myself, I find it easy to write and convey my thoughts from making it a habit since 11/12 years old. When did it all began and how did this become your career focus and claim to fame?

As a result of my disjointed childhood, I began conveying my thoughts within a journal. It was 1989 and I believe I was either in third or fourth grade. I wasn’t the popular girl in school (GEEK), so I usually buried myself in make-believe and daydreaming. Once I hit high school, my journals depicted elements of imagery, symbolism as I tried to hide what I was really feeling or relate it in some way in metaphor. Most of my earlier works are so esoteric that many individuals complemented me on the form, structure, and beauty of the images, but didn’t quite understand the intent. Back then I was grateful because I hid a lot of my emotion within it. To have someone decipher its meaning would probably result in my embarrassment or leave me feeling uncomfortably vulnerable.
Growing up makes it hard, in my opinion, as a writer because you're trying to make sense of what you're feeling and how to put words to what you see happening around you. I think it's with growth and maturity when we can accept our lives for what they really are and not be ashamed of our experiences -we can't feel uncomfortable and embarrassed. It makes us who we are and others appreciate the honesty because perhaps they went through similar and never had a way of expressing it. It's liberating for everyone.

I wrote my first short story in my high school creative writing class. I enjoyed the ability to paint that cinematic picture within the mind so much that I not only took the class again, but also begged a few of my classmates to do their homework for them. Aside from the journal entries we would write during class, I began writing similar pieces in my own journal. I would turn on Enya, Loreena McKennett, Deep Forest, among other assorted artists and write to my heart’s content. I’d write mostly prose during that time and later I would whittle it down into poetry I’d later share with my friends. A few I submitted for publication and won a fair number of awards.
You were indulging the creative beast! There is a freedom with creative writing -no limitations or restrictions. But on the other hand there's something great about limitations because it forces a writer to dive deeper for creative outlet and possibly help them discover a side of themselves they never knew or paid attention to before.
Which contests or competitions were you submitting your entries for us out here who want to do the same?

Miracle Ezine is currently developing its second annual poetry competition; I plan on entering that one.

I’ve also submitted a short story of mine to Dream Quest One in their winter 2013-2014 competition. Submissions are currently closed on that one but it’s advisable to check back periodically. http://www.dreamquestone.com/rules/enter-now/

The Boston Review is also hosting a poetry competition that I plan to enter.
http://www.bostonreview.net/contests

Probably one of the greatest resources regarding the craft of writing is visiting Writer’s Digest. They often host competitions as well and can direct authors to various ones being held.

Another excellent resource is The Writer’s Market. That book has a whole chapter dedicated to various writing contests. It is advised that one should procure the most recent copy as the specific details for submissions are often updated. The competition includes ones for books, poetry, essays, as well as many others. Some offer publication and others offer a monetary prize. The Writer’s Market is like the Holy Grail of publishing resources.

I realize its off-topic but I have to suggest a few excellent books on writing and publishing that have helped me out tremendously throughout the years. I started studying the art of writing at a young age and a few of the books that influenced me the most are:

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White

On Writing Well by William Zinsser

How To Get Happily Published by Judith Applebaum

Write Is a Verb: Sit Down, Start Writing, No Excuses by Bill O'Hanlon

Crossroads: Creative Writing in Four Genres by Diane Thiel

Literature Without Borders: International Literature in English For Student Writers by George R. Bozzini and Cynthia A. Leenerts

Also, I’ve been reading the Norton Anthologies since high school. I’d find older editions at used book stores and found that I really enjoyed the stories within them. These anthologies also included mini biographies and discussion questions pertaining to the story that encourage thought and analysis. In order to be a successful writer one must read. A lot. Reading for pleasure is a fantastic escape . However, when one stops and analyzes the writing that is when the story really comes alive. There are many other books I’ve read but these ones are my favorites!

In college, I enjoyed the same rewards of writing short stories. In 2006 after the birth of my first child, I decided it was about time to write my first novel. I wrote it between diaper changes, feedings, appointments, and the mundane domestic responsibilities I had to accomplish. By the end of 2007, I finally completed the first draft. During the interim, I studied all areas of the publishing industry and any book related to editing and writing. Two of my favorite books on writing are ‘Bird by Bird’ by Anne Lamott and ‘On Writing’ by William Zinsser. These texts offer a wealth of information and I believe are invaluable resources. I tried to send out the manuscript to agents and publishers to no avail. I received rejection upon rejection and eventually gave up.

I took a sabbatical from writing until my divorce. Sometimes at the end, you must go back to the beginning. My beginning is where I found solace. I felt more at home writing than I had in years during that tenuous and stressful time. I didn’t stop there, though. I went on to write a poem that has inspired an entire novel (I’m currently working on it, ‘Irony, Karma, And Fate Walk Into A Bar…”). I later learned about Kindle Direct Publishing and decided to dust off that old manuscript of mine and get it published myself. With the help of an author friend who advised me to modify the book in some areas to improve it, I went on to edit the book until it was ready for publication. I just had it published November 20th and it is currently available on Amazon.

So happy for the turn-around. I'm a sucker for happy endings :)

What genre or genres do you express yourself the most in? Why did you decide to go in this direction for your writing.?

I’ve always had an affinity for the macabre, Stephen King being my favorite author since I was a kid. I also gravitate toward personal and universal philosophies within my writing. I’ve learned quite a lot throughout the years and find myself reflecting upon life and the philosophies of others.

Where do you pull your inspiration from?

I daydream, a lot. I used to sit for hours when I was younger and daydream to music. I would sit and reflect upon things I should have said, things I should have done. I reflect upon the actions of others and contemplate the relative meaning behind them. I have a great advantage in my writing as I’m extremely empathic and particularly receptive to the emotions of the individuals who surround me. I think this particular quality of mine has had a strong influence in my writing. I tend to feel what other people feel. Some individuals are more projective with their emotions than others.
Like a more human approach. You connect with others on a profoundly more compassionate level, from being interpersonal with just having time to know yourself. There has to be a bigger role you are made for in this life with these qualities you have Julie :)

Some of my ideas hit like epiphanies, almost as though a cartoon light bulb suddenly flashes above my head. Once I have that spark of inspiration, I either jot it down in my idea journal or I begin writing in a frenzy.
Me too! And if you're like me you've used anything you could get your hands on like kitchen napkins, wrappers, plates, store receipts, and anything else that can be written on.

Is your subject matter primarily for adults or do you also write for young adults and children?

I’ve tried my hand at writing a fairy tale once. I’ve currently sent to another author friend for assistance in its completion. I primarily write for adults but perhaps someday I will gravitate toward young adult fiction. I will go wherever the winds of muse will carry me, I suppose.

There is a grave tone from reading, that I notice, about your style and energy. Does this tell readers about your personality or is it how you prefer to express yourself?

Through the course of my study in poetry, I’ve noticed similar attributes in other authors. When one thinks of poetry what often comes to mind are the more romantic pieces, like Shakespearian sonnets. There are a plethora of different emotions that are expressed in poetical form. Some of my work focuses on the fatalistic nature of my thinking due to unfortunate or enlightening events that I feel compelled to write about. More often times than not, the gravity of emotions are often serendipitous.

It is my belief that there is more to an individual than aesthetics, and by aesthetics I am not just referencing appearance. There is the individual that you see, the aspects that people choose to allow people to see, and then there is the depth within them. I imagine it as a cavern with multiple passages that lead to different areas of an individual but end within the heart. Upon first glance, I could be described as goofy and fun-loving, relaxed and laid-back. To those who know me well would describe me as deep, passionate, and intelligent. Depending upon the situation, I could be classified first as one or the other.

Does your family compose of writers, just like yourself, literary observers?

My older brother, Jerrid would read a lot. He was the first to introduce me to adult chapter books. The first series I ever read was the Xanth series by Piers Anthony that he handed down to me. I would sit curled up on the couch with my cat and do nothing but read in front of the window in my parent’s living room. From there, I was introduced to the Anne Rice novels and it snowballed from there. I was the black sheep of the family, honestly. Where my brothers went on to ‘real’ jobs, I was the one daydreaming and writing stories and poetry. I have a cousin who is also in the arts, Joe Wakefield, but his aim is Hollywood where mine is Random House or Simon and Schuster.

ANNE RICE

How did they feel about this being your job-focus, were they all for it or wanted a different path for you?

My mother wanted me to be a singer. My brothers admired my creative ability but thought I would be better suited with a degree and a ‘real’ job. My father just supported me and wanted me to do something that made me happy. “Do what you love, the money will come later.” is what he always told me. Doing what you love isn’t always simple and it’s far too easy to give up and move on. Life has so many opportunities within it and like other writers who struggle to follow their dream, they too understand that it takes work and dedication to succeed. Some do not find their success until later on in life, but I am a patient woman. I will not stop if I am unsuccessful with one novel. I plan to write many, many more in the years to come.
Wow, that is BIG! What your dad told you speaks mega-watt volumes. I believe what parents tell their children can either make or break their dreams -spoken and unspoken. Even your mom sees the bigger picture of the possibilities in music :) A 'real' job for you is following your heart & it takes real courage.

How challenging is it to be recognized and taken seriously for the type of job that you have?

Some individuals I’ve spoken with admire my dedication. I recently participated in a pistol tournament where I won third in the female division at the Sagola Township Sportsman’s Club. I chanced to meet a number of really interesting individuals from all walks of life. One woman approached me and asked what I did for a living. I told her that I was an author. “I’ve never met a published author before.” she said and shook my hand. I felt very flattered. She continued asking me about my work and I was very enthusiastic with my responses and she was eager to listen.

I’ve also had individuals who don’t take me seriously at all. I’ve heard the ‘You don’t have a real job’ and ‘Why don’t you go out and get a real paycheck?’ It’s disheartening, obviously, but even more so when I’m looked down on in certain circles. I have found that these individuals are under the misconception that wealth equates success. I am content in that my children are proud of me and share in the excitement that their mom is a published author following her dream. Their opinion far outweighs the opinion of those who belittle me for what I do.
It can also be challenging when it's a choice between having electricity or water running as well. When it gets down to the realness of basic necessity, money is either coming in to provide for yourself (and family) or it's not. When it's not then the whole 'get a job' nag is for the better good because at least it's understood as 'pay per hour' for a steady income. But if it's just to dictate how a person should live their life, it's not warranted.

You're also the developer and marketing director of MIRACLE EZINE, a literary magazine that helps to support creative writers and multicultural literature, which excited me a bit since I also refer to my work as an ezine in the making :) What inspired you to be involved with it?

The credit all goes to a wonderfully talented woman, Guntaj Arora. Almost a year ago, I was perusing different literary magazines I intended to submit my work to and I chanced upon this fledgling magazine. I submitted my poem, ‘Footprints’, which was accepted for publication and included in their third issue. When I saw that the ‘zine was looking for a Development and Marketing Director, I jumped at the opportunity. I’ve always had an appreciation of multicultural literature and this magazine perfectly displays the work in a magnificent format. I’ve always felt that multicultural literature is an essential element of understanding. There are far too many bias and fallacies derived from assumption and stereotyping. One of the greatest and rewarding ways to achieve understanding of the differences in cultures, is to read multicultural literature.

My job consists of sharing the magazine with the world and spreading the word of its publication. I am in charge of contacting bookstores, universities, and libraries requesting that they carry the magazine. I also assist in procuring other writers and encouraging them to submit their work. I do so by various channels, either by direct contact, development of leads, and disbursing contact information to various universities and writing groups.
I also write the book review column for the magazine and submit my poetry for publication periodically. The credit for this wonderful periodical does not go solely to me, but to the entire team of individuals who have made this magazine one of the greatest I could ever hope to work for. Guntaj has been a blessing and it has been an honor to work for her this past year.

Tell us what the pros and cons are with being the director of MIRACLE. By the way congrats on completing the first year of publication and having your first print edition!

Thank you so much! Having the magazine in print has been one of the major goals we have attained. I actually just received my copy of it and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. It is simply amazing and such an accomplishment. It’s been a struggle as with any creative endeavor, but I am so thankful for the drive and ambition that Guntaj has for this magazine. With the talented team of individuals she had selected to work on the magazine, we have seen steady growth and support. It is my sincere hope to see the magazine lining bookstands in the future.

Ok so I must share this with you Julie…I have an affinity for pens especially ball-point color pens. I love free-flowing ink, calligraphy pens, just writing in ink. How about you? Do you have that same giddiness with writing utensils?

My calligraphy skills are horrible, to be honest but I do admire the art. My grandfather, Paul Zell was an artist and I inherited his calligraphy pens but haven’t been brave enough to practice with them. I admire him greatly though he passed away before I got the chance to get to know him.

I unfortunately do not own a good pen set that I write with. Perhaps for Christmas, if Santa is feeling generous, I’ll get a set. I personally like pens with ink that flows smoothly and glides across the paper. I’ve had pens that I’ve had to dig into the paper until the words are practically embedded within the back cover.

There’s another I must share with you lol, there’s something about writing and the way words are written on paper. Can’t get enough, it’s just the way letters look and read on paper that is interesting to me. Do you share the same or something similar?
( It’s ok if not! Lol ).

I miss traditional correspondence a great deal. Corresponding through snail mail is so much more personal than email. I miss the days when I received a hand-written letter. The way an individual writes, their penmanship, handwriting tells a lot about them. I’ve kept all the letters my brother Jason wrote to me while he was in the Navy. Even cards and letters I received from my grandparents. An email can be copied and pasted, it can be backed up and saved forever, sure, but the way someone writes, their handwriting is irreplaceable. I kept a letter that my now fiancé wrote to me 12 years ago while he was in boot camp. He was amazed that I had kept it all this time but I didn’t have the heart to let it go.

I must admit the same. Computers have taken over everything to the point where a basic form of communication such as letter writing has disappeared. I've saved written documents in my memory boxes. Looking back on the years when they were written tells a story in itself because it was before we got carried away with the easy access of texting and emails. Someone's handwriting does give a personal meaning because we all have unique ways of doing it. You feel as though the person is right there with you or you're connecting with them personally -almost spiritually.

Handwritten correspondence is a lost art form. Correspondence has evolved into a cursory message that takes seconds to send and receive. Although the convenience is irrefutable, I think a lot of the soul is lost because of it. Individuals have resorted to texting as opposed to conversing, basking in the convenience as opposed to depth.

Funny thing, I was perusing Kickstarter trying to find ideas for presents for my kids and to help support fellow artists. A number of the gifts for donations for some of the projects included a hand-written letter of thanks. It actually made me a bit sad. A thank you note is quite a treasured gift, but these days some would overlook it as though the individual is being cheap. My father raised me with manners and encouraged me to write thank-you notes and show appreciation. Sadly though, there are a lot of people who overlook these lost traditions and neglect to show that appreciation. Either that or they believe the convenience of a Facebook post or email is sufficient enough.

Jonathan Swift

An author friend of mine, S. A. Mantell sent me a hand-written letter not too long ago. I was both amazed and surprised by her thoughtfulness. She is a beautifully rare soul, that one.
Value in the little things really matter in the end. What the world or society deems as "important" varies from person to person drastically. I don't know if we see where we're going honestly...
It just feels like humanity is drifting a part and before we know androids and robots will be speaking and acting for us. That's scary...with animals we know to go extinct we may eventually be following that trend as one of those animals. Or to go deep with this thought, become a lesser species, and another animal evolves and develops traits that we possess, resulting in domination over us. Anything is possible.

During Halloween last year I recall us talking about your first novel being published and released on the exact day. That idea fascinated me but did it work out for you?

If so, how well do you think it turned out?

I can't help but laugh a little. As hard as I tried, I couldn't get the edits finished in time for that particular date. At the time I was working on editing a manuscript for one of my clients. As far as I was concerned, her manuscript took precedence over mine. After I sent the manuscript back to her with the final edits, I took the opportunity (and the week-long break from classes and bouts of sickness) to edit my novel and make it fit for publication. I finally managed to get it up and out on November 20th, nearly a month after my expected deadline. I'm rather proud of how it turned out after I made the necessary changes.

You mentioned your next collection of poetry will have a philosophical meaning...

Are there any philosophers you admire and read their work? What do you like about these particular philosophers?

Although I do admire the works of familiar philosophers, such as Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates; Henry David Thoreau is one I admire the most. He focused more on natural observation and incorporated personal experience into his work. Tolstoy is also an influence, but his work is far beyond depressing. There are many

Henry David Thoreau

others who are considered ‘writers’ as opposed to ‘philosophers’. Voltaire’s Candide, is based on his political philosophy and I found peculiar. It is considered a satire, or comedy but I found that the underlying message and presentation dark but bore universal truths within it. Jonathan Swift’s work is also a great influence.

Most authors on some level display an amount of philosophy within their work. Whether it is universally depicted within the characters, plot, semantics, symbolism, or metaphor; the philosophies of the author shine through at least to some degree. I gravitate toward works that were at one point, controversial. I admire the strength and courage some classic authors and poets had for peeling away the skin of truth and baring the bold raw actuality of a topic, despite the collective reader’s opposition. It is amazing how at one point these philosophers and authors were at one point, ridiculed for what they wrote. As the years progressed and more individuals were educated, their work went on to be admired because they were brave enough to recognize and acknowledge truth, instead hiding behind ignorance.

Yes, their work teaches us how to believe in our own paths in life and to follow them no matter what. It may not be recognized at first but eventually others will see the greatness. It's not all the time that great people are seen but in step with their achievements they become iconic.

Just by us talking about your poetry led into another interesting fact, you're also an Artist with an interest in graphic art & painting. That too I have under my belt as well so we're coming from the same place. What type of painting and G.A. have you set your focus on?

I found a love of oil painting years ago. As I said before, my grandfather was an artist. When my father was moving, he collected all of my grandfather’s paints and supplies and passed them on to me. I have his easel, his drafting table, along with oil paints and brushes he used back in the late 60’s to early 70’s. I prefer to paint scenery pictures because I haven’t quite mastered portraits quite yet. I’m currently working on a mixed media piece. I’m incorporating one of my poems with steampunk embellishments. Hopefully I’ll have time this winter to complete it. I haven’t decided whether or not I will put it up for sale.

As for graphic art, again, I prefer natural scenes. Decades Review just recently accepted one of my pieces for publication in their January issue.

I'm a major foodie and noticed you have a love for canning and preserving. Name some of the things you love to preserve and/or a master at doing?

I learned how to can jelly when I was a kid. Admittedly, this is one of the fondest memories I have of my mom. During berry season on the weekends, from the early morning until well past dark, we would pick berries until our hands turned purple. We

Thimbleberries

would then go home with our bounty, rinse the berries and either refrigerate them until the morning, or freeze them until we had enough for a batch. After I bought my first home, I continued the tradition and mastered the fine art of making Thimbleberry jam. This particular jam at stores around here cost about $15.00 for a half pint jar.

This past year I finally invested in a pressure cooker because I wanted to start preserving meats and soups. Sometimes through the hustle and bustle of life, I don’t have the time to cook a nice homemade dinner. Instead, I thought I would make them ahead of time, can it, and cut out time spent in the kitchen on a busy day. I started looking up recipes on Pinterest and found a number of recipes I have fallen in love with. Spicy hot watermelon pickles are probably my favorite so far. I could eat those on anything. I’ve also made my daughter’s favorite, tomato soup. I’ve also tried my hand at making corned beef hash. This little Irish girl loves her corned beef hash but I’m not a fan of the price of each can at the store. It turned out a lot better than store bought, that’s for sure.

For Thanksgiving, I bought a 23-pound turkey. Since the flavor of the turkey gets a little gross if frozen for a while, I decided that I’d can the leftovers for future use. It preserves the flavor more and tenderizes the meat so if I end up botching the turkey, at least the leftovers will be tender lol.

What are some meals or deserts you love to make?

My fiancé is a fan of my home made brownies. I’m also known for my epic no-bake cookies and sour cream blueberry muffins.

When I was growing up, my brothers had fought over the title of who made the best apple pie. For the longest time my brother Jerrid was the reigning victor. That is, until I brought my walnut streusel apple pie to Thanksgiving dinner a few years back. I created my own apple pie spice, which gives it a unique flavor and thus I won the title. I don’t think either of my brothers bothered waiting until after dinner to delve into it either. They walked around with fork in hand and ate it straight from the tin and almost drew blood over the last piece.

Boasting rights for you Ms. Baker!

We’re living in superwoman times literally with all the roles women juggle in their lives while still maintaining a sense of self. You have your hands full as a mommy and wife. Where do you find time to make it possible to do the work you love and how are you able to manage the demands of keeping up with it?

I’ve been asked this a lot. “How do you do what you do? Where do you find the time?” Most of the time, sadly, I forego sleep in order to get a lot done. It’s kicked me right square in the behind on more than one occasion. My kids are gone every weekend to visit their dad, so while they are gone, I delve into my responsibilities as much as I can. My fiancé will sit next to me while I’m working and we’ll cuddle while I work. When I appear frazzled or overly stressed, he’ll force me to take a break to play Skyrim and unwind. Most of the time I get so engrossed in my responsibilities that I often forget to take time for myself.

My fiancé has been endlessly supportive of everything I do.

Even though writing is your passion and may consume much of your thought space what activities do you like to dive into when you’re not writing?

My fiancé got me into pistol competitions. The first one I participated in I won third in the women’s division. I would have won first had I used a .22, but I opted to use his 1911 instead.

Aside from that, I also play video games. I’m an RPG geek (role playing game). Skyrim has had my attention for the past year, but I only play it when my fiancé suggests that I play. Again, I need to be reminded to take a breather. I also like going on adventures with my kids, hiking, baking, art. I also try to volunteer at their school as often as I can. For Christmas I bought myself a program so I can start creating spoken word poetry tracks. I figured that could be something fun to do as well while I’m all snowed in.

Most of my time spent not writing, I’m editing manuscripts for clients. I started Writerz Block editing services around the same time I accepted the position of Marketing Director at Miracle E-zine. I found that I love editing as much as I love writing. I also love to teach, so as a different approach to standard editing firms, I offer classes tailored to the specific individual and their needs. When I edit a manuscript, I also note what I changed and why, allowing the author to either accept the changes or modify as they see fit. As a writer myself, I know the difficulties of the editing process.

That's very helpful and beneficial to give back to your peers & give knowledge to others. I'm sure you find complete fulfillment in giving back using your skills!

What work did you do before now? Did it lend itself as an opportunity to advance you to do what you’re doing now?

I worked as a freelance writer and editor at a few sites. I used to write articles for www.mycollegepal.com and then progressed to ESL editing for a content writing firm in Pakistan. Before that, I worked as a waitress. I loved that job too as I have an inherent desire to feed people.

ha! ha! right. Love that.

If you simply had to make a living with an alternative profession what other skills do you possess that could make it a simple transition? If you know what other jobs you would be good at share please!

I was an amazing waitress and I used to deal blackjack at a local casino. I would continue working with ESL writers or tutor as I have in the past. Until I earn my BA, there are unfortunately not many jobs in this area that I would be qualified for. I have been contemplating the potential of working at a university after I receive my degree and go on to earn my Masters. When I first started college, I was aiming toward a degree in elementary

education. After I transferred to Northern Michigan University, I changed my major to Art & Design and English. When I got pregnant in 2006, I had to quit college due to the fact that the classes I was taking at the time were studio classes and I would be around chemicals that could have potentially harmed my daughter. I started attending again in 2011 at the University of Phoenix online, this time for English and Communications. I will be earning my degree in June 2014 and shortly after I’ll be working toward my Masters.
Do you see yourself finishing your Art & Design courses at the same university?

When and if I ever do go back yes I'll probably go back to Northern Michigan University to get it. I've learned not to jump from college to college as it is a waste of money and time considering how many credits don't transfer. It's a nightmare.
Technically I should have TWO Bachelor degrees considering how many credits I've accumulated in total between the 3 universities I've attended. When I transferred, some of the credits did not, so it was like starting from scratch, and all that hard work that I put into those classes were lost. Since I began my Art & Design degree at NWU, I plan to go back to NWU to finish it. Hopefully by then my credits will still be valid enough to allow me that little head start. Otherwise I may venture off to something different. Only time will tell.

From experience being a writer can at times be lonely with one’s own thoughts but it’s captivating because the mind is very active and it’s about expressing through an introspective form, maybe even outward. Can you explain what it’s like for you?

Sometimes I miss waitressing, conversing with the customers, and making them laugh. I loved making people smile. It’s not too bad with my fiancé around, he’s even started his own yarns and we take a break at times to talk about our work, what we’re doing, where we’re going with it, and our plans to finish. There are times though, when it gets really lonely. The kids would either be at school or at their dad’s, my fiancé would be either at work or drill for his weekend with the National Guard and I’d be alone. Admittedly, Facebook is pretty much my only social life, so although it may appear that I’m online constantly; I usually just have it running in the background. I’ll pop on for a minute or two while I either write papers for class, edit a manuscript for a client, write, or market for the magazine.

I’m always thinking about something; even while I’m driving I’ll be contemplating a new idea or something someone said. Sometimes I dwell upon topics that occasionally hinder or enlighten me. Mostly though, it’s an inner reflection and the best way I can express difficult emotions or circumstances.
I know all about it lol. Somehow my best ideas and creative flow floats into my mind when I'm washing dishes. Anytime we allow our minds to wander is when the greatest ideas come to us! Balancing them with reality helps with keeping them from becoming a burden.

How do you keep yourself motivated when ideas are not coming so clearly, regularly, and you experience writer’s block?

I just keep on writing. Even if what I’m writing seems nonsensical or disjointed trains of thought. The important part is just writing and continuing to write. If I feel stumped with one story line, I will begin another. I have poems that are half-finished, simple phrases that come to mind that I plan on developing later that I still haven’t gotten around to because of that loss of ‘inspiration’. Then there are times when I just sit back and enjoy the works of others; I read. Sometimes the news inspires a write. I have one poem that I wrote that was inspired by an article I read a while back on Huffpost. It was about this mother who ran across a dieting journal her six-year-old daughter wrote. The mother was concerned that her daughter was exhibiting signs of a potential eating disorder. Then I remembered when I used to do that. I used to catalogue everything that ever passed my lips. I wrote a very lengthy poem about my struggles with my body and image, my battle with anorexia when I was in my early twenties, along with the massive changes my body underwent once I got pregnant.

It is very brave to share your personal struggles and express it through your art form- writing. Anyone who reads our time togther will know they are not alone with whatever they are suffering with.
Huffpost is one of my favorites for news/education and it definitely gives individuals thought-worthy content to share their thoughts on.

Inspiration can be found anywhere and has the potential to be write-worthy. Just because a piece of writing isn’t meant for publication or you have no intent of having it published, doesn’t necessarily mean it shouldn’t be written. A love of the art of writing is far more important than monetary gains. You can tell when a writer is writing for the sole purpose of making money as opposed to the writer who does it because they love it. Much like any other 9-5 job, you can tell the difference between a worker who is there solely for a paycheck and the worker who does it and is glad to be there.

What has been the biggest compliment or critique you’ve received from followers and/or critics?

Truthfully? When I gave the raw manuscript of Faces In Still Waters to author David W. Moore III to review and tell me what he thought, I was more nervous than I had ever been in my life. The rejection letters I had received in the past had nothing upon

the anxiety I felt as he read it and I waited for his input. I have always been confident in my skills as a poet, but when it comes to novels, I was terrified. Did I suck? Should I be doing this? Is it stupid? So many questions and negativity ran through my head until I got his call that he was finished. “It has good bones” he said, and then proceed to tell me where I could improve the novel.

“Do I suck?” I asked, hesitantly.

“No, you don’t suck.” he responded. This coming from the author of “The Shroud” and two other captivating books of poetry. I would have to say that was the biggest complement I had ever received.

Honestly, if it wasn’t for him, my book would probably still remain buried within a folder on my desktop collecting dust bunny pets.
Just like the saying goes, You never know until you try ;) right.

Has it been fairly easy to develop a following or do you still consider it still growing?

I have a lot of people following my poetry but I will admit that my following is still growing when it comes to my fictional pieces. Reviews are an integral part of marketing and a lot of indie authors rely on them to procure more readers. If a book has no reviews, the reader doesn’t have a way to gauge whether or not a book is worthy enough to purchase.

I really cannot wait to receive my first review. Some authors take serious offense to a less-than-perfect review. I know that not everyone is going to love my book because every reader is different in their likes and dislikes. Books are like an all-you-can-eat buffet. There are some dishes you will always love, some you are willing to try, and then there are some that taste like roadkill. But to others the roadkill could be perceived as a delicacy that is savored; it’s entirely dependent upon the individual’s tastes. If I end up with a negative review, I should expect the reviewer to explain why so that I can improve future novels. Every experience, even negative experiences, should be taken as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Totally agree! I'm wondering though will you be able to personally handle reviewers/critiques that are left without a reason?

This is why I love my education in communications so much. If someone were to leave a critique without reason, whether negative or positive, I’ll just take it at face value. A lot of the sites that include book reviews such as Amazon have rating system that a lot of people misinterpret. If I were to receive a one star review, my feelings would be hurt, sure. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, though. I’m well aware that not everyone is going to enjoy reading my book for one reason or another. What’s ironic is that I just recently posted an article about reviews and critiques on my blog. There are a lot of authors out there who get offended with a four-star review. This particular article can be found at the following link: http://jvstanleywb.tumblr.com/post/73293795975/five-stars-of-death-the-misconception-of-book-reviews

In what ways do you engage with your audience and encourage more to be involved?

Sometimes I offer giveaways. I plan on doing so here shortly with an autographed copy of Faces In Still Waters. I’ve also asked questions about writing ups and downs and shared other authors that I believe in.

Do you have a lucky habit that you do before or during writing that means you’re on a “winning streak” or a firestorm of brainstorms, or helps you to stay on track?

Not really, honestly besides staying up all hours of the night until my vision blurs. I’ll set public goals for myself via Facebook status updates. This allows people to know that I’m off in my own little world of creativity and shouldn’t be bothered. Ironically, though, that’s when I get more messages and notifications.

First impressions mean everything but they can also be wrong at times. Have you experienced any situations where you were not given the benefit of the doubt or there was a misconception about who you are?

How did you correct the misunderstanding or turn it around ( if you felt the need to )?

Obviously I would try to apologize for any miscommunication on my part. I have had situations where I’ve had personality clashes and often times when that happens, I tend to apologize and bow out politely. If it’s a friend, we talk it over. With individuals I’m unfamiliar with, I approach the situation directly and this is where my long-winded tendencies take hold as I explain the situation. I’ve had to diffuse arguments and hostility due to misunderstandings between classmates on a number of occasions. Usually, when considering the other individual and their feelings, I can often times resolve the matter.

What is a day in the life of J.V. STANLEY.
(Finish the rest any way you want)…
“From the moment I wake up in the morning until the time I go to sleep I ….”

I wake up, get my kids their breakfast and get them ready for school. My daughter is in 2nd grade while my son is in the Headstart program, so he leaves a few hours after my daughter does. As soon as they’re gone, I begin my day by making some coffee, if I hadn’t already. I then start working on whatever project that is of utmost importance, either my own writing or editing a manuscript for a client and marketing for the ‘zine. I’ll take breaks periodically to clean or socialize on Facebook, retrieve my children from the bus, and then make dinner. I’ll spend a few hours with them before bed time and then start writing or working some more. At around eleven at night, I’ll start homework and work on that until 2 a.m. Sometimes by then, I will collapse into a heap or I’ll force myself to keep working. On the weekends, I work from the time I wake up until the time I go to sleep. If I have an appointment or have scheduled volunteer work for my kids’ school, I will work around that time. The commute to town is horrendous though. I live out in the middle of nowhere; about a good forty-five minute drive from the nearest civilization, pending weather conditions, of course.

Despite how busy I am, I always block out time for my family. Every moment I spend with them is precious to me.

Are there any countries you would like to visit or have visited?

I’ve been to Toronto, Canada once for my senior class trip. When I was married to my ex, we spent our honeymoon in London, England. I would love nothing more than to go back, but I would opt not to go during the Christmas holiday next time. Very nearly everything was closed but I still enjoyed my time spent there.
Oh yea overseas they don't play when it comes to their holidays! They understand the meaning of "break-time" even during the year.
I’ve always wanted to visit Scotland and Ireland. I was even contemplating whether or not my fiancé and I should get married in one of those countries.

What’s your favorite color(s)?

Purple and red.

What is one of your most favorite movies?

I have a number of those. The Saint, Shawshank Redemption, Troy, Star Wars trilogy (as in 4, 5, and 6 as opposed to the Jar-Jar Binks monstrosity), Lord of the Rings trilogy, Serenity…there are countless others.

Do you have any unusual talents that you can share with readers?

I could talk your ear off. Seriously, it will get up and walk away. Does sarcasm count as a talent?

I think it's hilarious that you constitute "unusual" humorously with basic communication overdone lol. Sarcasm is definitely your niche from our conversation. Why not? I mean come on, if it's used creatively how can it not be a "talent".

In all seriousness I can operate an assault rifle and the care and feeding thereof. I also do voices, as in cartoonish voices. I’ve creeped my friends out with my impression of Cartman (from South Park) and Gollum. My impression of a chicken is especially convincing. I had a boss that had me do my chicken impression whenever I saw her and she’d laugh and have me do it for her friends. I wasn’t sure if I should have been flattered or embarrassed.

I was singing Frank Sinatra's duet with Celine Dion..."All The Way "

I also sing. In Wal-Mart. At the top of my lungs. I’m patiently waiting for the day when I end up on ‘The People of Wal-Mart’ website. Christmas is my favorite time of year because that’s when I really belt ‘em out.
Wow, I'm speechless... lol

What keeps you driven and how do you define “success”?

I don’t measure success by the dollars lining my pocket, by the friends I have, the popularity or notoriety I have attained, or even the awards I’ve won. I measure success by the level of happiness I have. I measure the success of my life by the success of my children and their happiness. I also measure small successes like mini victories such as my ability to help others to achieve their goals overcoming an emotional problem.

What motto or saying guides you through your hardest or toughest times?

“A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for.”

― William G.T. Shedd

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

― Plato

I also find myself quoting Dale Carnegie quite a bit as well.

Has writing changed anything about you?

It has allowed me insight into my own life. Sometimes as I write, I recognize aspects about me that wouldn’t have come to the forefront of my mind had I not sat down and written about it. It allows me to determine what emotion I am feeling, or what an underlying problem that needs resolving. It has also helped me understand a little better the motivations of others. I’ve found that I pay closer attention to the people around me and am more attuned to their feelings and mannerisms. This inevitably leads me toward an understanding of their intentions.

Personally what do you take away from doing what you love to do that is significant to you Ms. Stanley?

I would have to say I take away a greater understanding of myself as well as the people around me. Situations, conversations; sometimes we need to stop and really listen instead of just maintaining our sense of hearing.

With the power you have what do you aspire to change for the better ( about anything in life )?

I wanted people to read my writing and gain insight, perhaps into themselves or others. I want people to stop and really think about how my writing relates to them in life. I suppose I’ve studied enough literature to recognize and relate to some of the works by authors, while the average reader delves into a piece of work not just to learn, but to be entertained. I desire to share my knowledge, insight, and understanding within my work. If my writing influences or inspires just one person, I would be content in that.

If you can meet anyone in the world who is presently alive who would it be and why?

Authors: I would love to meet my author friends in person, notably Victoria Selene Skye Deme. She and I would have a blast.

Victoria Selene Skye Deme

As for mainstream authors, I’d love to meet Anne Lamott, Barry Eisler, and Stephen King.

L to R: Christopher Eccleston, Billie Piper, & Barry Eisler

If I could meet an actor, it would be Kate Winslet, Gary Oldman, and the cast of Firefly, including Joss Whedon so I can beg them to make a sequel to Serenity. I’m a Whovian, so I’d also love to meet David Tennant, Matt Smith, and Christopher Eccleston (he was an amazing Doctor). Billie Piper, too; I just love Rose!

Lastly how can readers keep up with the Latest & Greatest?

I can be found on my Facebook pages as well as my websites

The Writing of J. V. Stanley Official Website: http://jvstanley.weebly.com/

Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/JVStanley.editor.author.poet?fref=ts

Writerz Block editing service:
http://writerzblock007.wix.com/writerzblock

Writerz Block Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Writerz-Block/183631025056560?ref=ts&fref=ts&__rev=1024226

CRISSANJI (Kris-Ah-n-Gee)

2013-10-08T19:56:00.000-04:00

Welcome Kool World to the hottest Joint in the Arts with your fly girl SerenadasPen. We're jet-setting not too far from home which is delightful! I'm feelin a lil heat with a nice bright sun in Florida and fun times at the legendary Disney parks in Orlando. We're having a good time catching up and chillin in our next segment with a fly cat you're going to enjoy with his Reggae, Soca, R&B "retrospect" vibe that will have you moving and grooving to the beat & might I say turned on! With roots in Jamaica, a 80's dancehall legend in his fam, and ties with a happenin' group Iet's get to know and groove to our next Artist on the Rise Crissanji!

Great to meet you Crissanji!

I'm finally meeting the Great & Magnificent ‘CRISSANJI’. I may be the first one to bring attention to this but has anyone mentioned your name spelled out is almost similar to CRISSANGEL, the performance artist/ magician?!?!! (Just had to throw that one out there)

Well first, Hello!! how art thou?

haha Thrilled & Intrigued! I can’t contain myself lol.

It may just be me with the excitement but hey you're on your way to stardom so I'm just starting the energy-flow now. That means we need a break-down on this interesting name and learn more about the guy behind the magic!

For everyone that is meeting you for the first time we must declare a tid-bit of your claim to fame so far in your journey. Who have you already had the pleasure of opening an act for?

to answer your question or i should say the last one you asked lol...

US R&B singer Mario & Jamaican rap Artist Sean Kingston

I've opened up for a few known artists: Sean Kingston, Mario, Fat Joe, Red Rat. I actually performed with him and with the Crossovah.. which was one of the biggest shows i've ever done in the US.

Crossovah with Crissanji

I Opened up for Jeffery Osbourne, TOK, the 'Marley' brothers and them (Ziggy Marley, Jr. Gong, etc) The list continues...

TOK

Jeffery Osbourne & Ziggy Marley

and the list continues...that's pretty darn good!

Your name is special in its presence written & pronounced ...Don't mind me for throwing out that Crissangel comment in the beginning lol. Tell us how you established such a name to represent yourself as a music Artist.
The truth?? lol well i really came up with it after watching a marathon of Naruto and then afterwards went over to my friend's house, me and my
group members, and just out
of no where i just

NARUTO

said, "i'm a give myself a Ninja name..my name is now....
Crissanji Marutoga!!!
and then everyone else came up with theirs, including my cousin lol.
and how did i came up with the actual name you ask?

well my Name is

Christopher Andre Grant.
my aunt said we gonna start calling you Criss which is a

"I've opened up for Sean Kingston, Mario, Fat Joe, Red Rat, Jeffrey Osbourne, TOK, The Marley Brothers (Ziggy Marley Jr. Gong, etc) and the list goes on..."

Jamaican term that means something along the lines of 'top notch, clean, crisp'. so ever since i've been spelling my name Criss.
then you got Andre. i dropped the Dre and used G for the end but spelled it "ji".. Criss-An-Ji lol.
it took me way less time to come up with it than me explaining it
just now lol.
Don't worry I won't tell anyone how long-winded you are :fingers crossed: lol (kidding). You will be surprised & maybe disappointed to know I've never heard of Naruto. I was thinking, Oh Lord he's watching CARTOON NETWORK and hooked on those cartoons. Even if you are that's your thing so it don't matter what I rattle on about, but I was intrigued in knowing more about it since it's new to me. I'm fascinated by anyone who can create their own unique name. It's like having an alias. You also gave a snippet into more of you with your heritage being Jamaican.

When were you born and where are you originally from?

age ain't nothin but nummberrrrr!!! lol I was born on April 10, 1986 in Bronx, New York son!! And raised in orlando, florida. lol my parents are both Jamaican so you can pretty much guess everything else lol.

"...throwing down aint nothing but a thangggg.
It's something I have for you, it will never chaaaaange." (singing)

No I think you pretty much said it All lol

AALIYAH "Age Aint Nothing But A Number"

Thanks for sharing your love of Aaliyah...

lol I liked that song back in middle school days myself actually. But I will say age does matter in some situations but I won't mess your flow up lol. Us southern peeps always had jokes about you all up north saying "son", "ma" and "shorty" so let me say for the record to bring the mayhem,
I aint yo son, shawty" lol. All love though especially to you because your sound is killer.

Christopher Andre Grant also known as CRISSANJI born in the Bronx, raised in Orlando beh-baay !

Do you come from an average, "well-to-do", or humble beginnings?

I think i'll go with humble...
it was average but the experiences made me humble.. easy going.

What was it like for you growing up? fun, average, difficult, happy, life-changing?
I'd pretty much say all the above. i've always lived in good, nice, & quiet neighborhoods.. unless the kids of the block were making the noise lol. but pretty much my mom, grandma, and aunt made sure we had a good upbringing even if they were on their last dime doing so. there were 6 kids in the house:

my 2 sisters, my 3 cousins and me. so you know that was a lot of food and birthdays and what not.
My mom wasn't really making that much money to buy a lot of toys we wanted, even when we wanted.
So i learned to take or accept what i got whenever i get it with no complaints and also learned to do without.. pretty much be humble.
i made or recycled alot of my toys. My batman action figure was a lot of other things like a ninja
or a Power Ranger lol.

Oh ok now the whole NINJA concept is really making sense now lol. Your upbringing exemplifies matriarchal (women lead roles) influences which I find superior when there's a large family unit such as your own with 6 kids to take care of. There are many who can relate to this upbringing because it's common and has been for many generations.

You were whipping out some side to side feet gliding moves in your performances, most notably in
Hollywood @ IMC VIP party.

More than just a singer you're versatile.
Where can you trace your beginnings
with music and performing growing up?

I can trace it back to being 3 years old dancing in front of some old"er" ladies in NY at some party

I can't really remember much about lol.
I also lived in Jamaica for a lil while as a toddler and i remember being a part of a dance contest down there.
At 3 years old you were at a NY party already entertaining the women!?!? Some would say it's so innocent but you aint fooling me you're just another Usher wooing and cooing grown women haha.
You were probably gyrating too.

I noticed how you phrased old"er" and any old"er" women reading this hopefully won't hunt you down for even mentioning "old" lol.

Do you come from a musically-inclined family and if you can recall what song(s) made an impact on your
life as a kid?

Yes i do. My Aunt's name is Shelly Thunder, she's a reggae artist that blew up in the 80's. and not to mention Granny could sing and my mommy be hitting them melodies nicely when she be singing.

Jamaican dancehall queen popular in the 1980's broke out on the scene with her hit kuff. her "man-checker" content in hits Sometimes a man fi get kuff & walk out a mi house gave her a following with women liberators & bad boys alike. now born again christian she is also known for writing & performing "Forgive me father" off of lauryn hill's 1998 album the miseducation of lauryn hill.

If there's one famous family member there is bound to be another! Is your mom or grandma known in the music world for their voices too?
Naw my mom didn't really consider herself a singer, her talent is Drawing, which is where I get it from. And as for my grandma,
I don't really think she ever thought of taking her talents to the public. Plus she ended up getting sick when she was younger and ended up with arthritis and on crutches. her sickness caused her to cough a lot which in turn
ruined her voice.
That is so awful and unfortunate...at least the blessing is seeing her grandson continue the legacy.
I'm sure that fills her with joy :)

Michael Jackson was the man that made the impact for me when it came to performing and dancing. My cousin and i would sit in front the TV for hours doin everything he did whenever they played his specials on VH1.
so all his songs!!

Michael Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by Guinness World Records. His contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along with his publicized personal life, made him a global figure in popular culture for over four decades.

Michael Jackson is and will always be the Biggest Inspiration and Artistic Talent there ever was. I don't know anyone who has not been influenced or intrigued by MJ in some way. He is a part of Americana. That's amazing how you have connections to known Artists especially in your lineage. Listening to Kuff reminds me of a song, Murder She Wrote I've heard so many times. Back when peeps were still recording on cassette tapes (yes youngins those were the days lol) I would listen to the local ATL radio stations and record DJ mixes and this came up often and I was jammin! Still got the tape I recorded it on too.

Has it been easy getting noticed for your skills and talents or did you have to work hard at gaining
attention & acknowledgement?

in the beginning it was a little easier than it is now but always hard. People see that money sign and that's all they really care

about. Claiming they know how to do things and have connects with

" I've learned a whole lot on my journey from business to writing, to producing, to engineering, & I'm still learning."

this and can do that and it all ends up just being lines that are fed. But even though all that happened i kept pushing for my music and working on my craft. i've learned a whole lot on my journey from business to writing, to producing, to engineering, and i'm still learning.

Plenty of bottom feeders in the world and it's up to us to be a step ahead of them, ya know? Just by what I do as well I'm fed lies, even told as a lie, and get put on the runaround. The great part about it is it helps develop a tougher skin, wisdom, and helps drive us to continue working hard when the right opportunity does appear
for us to soar ;)

Are you part of a band or doing it BIG solo?
I used to be a part of a group called Crossovah. we did alot of things together and learned alot. we came up with the name because that is the type of music we did, Crossover music, a mixture of Soca, Reggae/dancehall, R&B,
and hip hop. we did it all!!

From listening to your music I'm definitely feeling your Island roots but even more graciously with a modernized addition of R&B which makes it very commercially integrated. You're paying respects to your background while adding familiar sounds that transcends...and might I add done very well! It is SANJI's World.

Named after their "Crossover" style music. A fusion of Soca, Reggae/Dancehall, R&B, & Hip-Hop.

Are you currently signed with a label or have your own?
No i'm not currently signed with a label. doing pretty much everything on my own with a little help here and there.

Do you have an EP or LP that you will be releasing soon?
Well right now i'm at the final stages of my first LP called Futuristic Retrospects
yea i know interesting title right haha! the meaning behind it is,This is where my future begins and i

know i will be looking back on
this project saying "thats where
it started". and as for the music itself..it's new music that seems familiar.
True that! "New Music That Seems Familiar"...
I was saying 'retrospect' for the longest and if you asked me where I heard it I wouldn't be able to tell you. One of the words used quite often and lately I've been hearing it everywhere! weird lol. The kool thing is you're looking ahead. Who wouldn't want to look back and say, hey I remember when I made that track and look how far I've come since then! Awesome concept.

In what ways do you promote yourself and get word out

about your Artistry?

I promote myself through any means i can: internet, word of mouth, putting myself out in the public eye, so if i have to do a few free shows here and there..

so be it.

"Right now I'm at the final stages of my first LP called Futuristic Retrospects.

I know I will be looking back on this project saying That's where it started..It's new music that seems familiar."

I'm a very shy conservative person when it comes to talking.. especially on a serious matter, with more than one person in the room. So how i overcome it with getting myself noticed or strike up an interest in newcomers who don't know i'm an artist is show I'm a goof ball..

I would do a few stupid things here and there, get people to laugh, do some funny dance moves, or say something stupid to get their interests and at that moment i catch their attention. i slip in music or my friends would say, "you know he's an artist right?"
and let the conversations begin!!!

Great way to break the ice! After watching KDrew "Body & Soul" I can bet how turn't up you can get! lol. I must say though it absolutely amazes and baffles me when I hear Artists say they are shy...Don't get me wrong it's no biggie lemme tell you because I'm a shy sista lol. It dissolves as I get comfortable with my crowd and that is exactly what's up (so I won't bust your balls about it, I get it lol) when you come alive when you perform and entertain because that's your voice. Where you're able to be you, and there's no better way in my opinion cuz we, the audience are receiving a gift of insurmountable OMG. MJ was attractively bashful and quite shy in person - so it wasn't only dance cues you & the King of Pop have in common which is very fly indeed.

Do you have a street team that supports and helps you?
I'm actually putting a street team together, recruiting people that are willingto support the sanji movement.

Ha, wellll that should'nt be a problem your vocals are mesmerizing and you got a kool swag about yourself.
Who wouldn't want to be part of the Sanji movement
(ninja kick) hi- yaah!

As an Artist being creative is just a part of what you do.
Do you have a name that you call your followers?
lol not in concrete but here and there i'll say TeamSanji or the Sanjiku's lol. still and forever will be a ninja!

"Here and there I'll refer to my fans as TeamSanji or Sanjikus.

Still and forever will be a Ninja!"

With your own distinguishing style, what creative name would you call it? Is it a mash up of genres or traditional like pop, rock, or hip-hop? How would you describe it.

I call my music 'Crossovah Pop'.

My music is mixed with everything.

Your voice has a commercially familiar sound. I know peeps say you resemble other Artists we know about.
What have you heard?
over the years I've heard Chris Brown, Omarion, Marques Houston,Usher, Shawn from Boyz II Men...and a few others.

FROM L to R: Shawn Stockman from Boyz II Men, Marques Houston, & Chris Brown

Ok real talk...I was thinking of Marques Houston & Omarion so much from listening to you. So glad others are hearing the same thing! You know I had the biggest crush on Houston as the next door neighbor Roger back in the Sister, Sister days with Tia & Tamera Mowery. From noticing him there I learned about boy group Immature and was hooked.
Loving all the similarities listed.
If you can also give credit and coin yourself as a songwriter, which I'm hoping you are, what topics are you covering with your music?

I do coin myself as a song writer. 98% of my songs i've written myself. the topics i cover are everyday common folk topics.
It's alot of fun(that everyone can have not no 'baller fun') love, heart break, infatuation, love making, party, dance, dating, etc. Pretty much all my songs are of personal experiences..
or some day dreams i be having lol.

haha Yup just what I thought. I knew I wasn't imagining things. Daydreams check. Love making check. Plenty of fun & dancing most definitely check. Yea I would say you're covering many bases from what my ears perked up to.

Just You and Me is supa fly for real though! You really got something there. I'm seriously lovin and jammin to it. If this was playing on the radio I would encourage listeners to request it to keep playing on the air waves. In the beginning I was thinking of R. Kelly with the instrumentation and listening throughout there's a definite pop-inspired influence. It also reminds me of the dance tracks booming on speakers back in the 1990's when DJ's mixing was super hot. I miss those days and truly thought that age was over with the work coming out these days but like I've said before there's a revival and new surge with creative directions in music now. Peeps are recognizing their own particular sound and using their influences from listening to their parent's music and great grandparents and really going far and beyond with it. It's refreshing and spectacular. Thank You for making it hot. A dance video would be so dope with this. I can literally see it, no lie.

Ok this next one is a doosie...It may garner a mile long list but bear with me Criss lol. Don't pull your hair out.
Who is your all-time favorite performer or music Artist?

My all time favorite performer is hands down Michael Jackson. but my all time favorite Musical act is

NSYNC, ever since my first girlfriend in 5th grade gave me their first CD for my birthday.

I don't know if it's cause it was she that gave it to me or what, but till this day i still jam to their music.

Aw how sweet. Memorieeees...You and ayeeee!(my bad had a singing moment lol). The 5th grade must be a turning point for many people. Stuff seems to go down that year before middle school for some reason. 96 and 97 were my best years with music and having fun in 6th and 7th grade. Can you believe I bought a ticket to see them in concert in Atlanta and missed it? Boy, if I had known I would've told those shady friends of mine who went without me I'm going to find a way with or without them lol. To this day I still have the ticket I asked my mother to buy in advance when me and one other friend planned to go together (she was a major uber fan). One of life's sour lessons for sure. But I can laugh at it now since peeps like that are
bad seeds and we were kids then.
Your life is filled with sounds of all kinds, whether it's traffic noise or production created in a studio.

What sound or noise do you either like or despise?

i really can't think of a specific sound that i really like but the noise i really despise.. nail filling or a broom sweeping in the garage floor.. i'm cringing right now just answering this question ugghh!!!

You know what one other Artist comes to mind that has the same gripe with nail filing (and nail clipping) -Jesse McCartney. It's been a few years but I heard him in an interview around 2008 mention that. Yelling my name angrily will be my all time most hated "noise" and cars revving up super loud and it carries....

Artists still have a love for what other musicians and Artists are doing. Are you fascinated by any particular music within your community or internationally?
My dawg Justin Timberlake!! that's my ninja yo!! his music is brilliant, and his performances.. my freakin goodness!. then my other ninja.. Travis Garland. that man can sing and his writing is sick.

Travis Garland lead singer from group NLT & Justin Timberlake from group N'SYNC

Inspired by Mr. Suit & Tie 4-sho lol. JT aint too shabby with his blue-eyed soul. That's a white boy who must've had a black momma in another life or something hailin from Tennessee. It's extraordinary to say the least.
I'm with ya, he's my Ninja too hehe.

What are your thoughts on today's platforms for bringing a commercial opportunity for today's rising acts? Tv shows for instance like American Idol, X-Factor, So You Think You Can Dance, The Voice, ABDC.

I think they are really great for the people that get through. Because even if you don't win, people will remember you and you have just gained a whole hell of a lot of true followers/fans.
and people that are interested
in working with you.

In your words how do you define real "Success" and what it takes to be driven as an Artist? (considering this generation's musical interests and popularity)

"REAL SUCCESS is succeeding in doing something that you love."

Real success is succeeding in doing something that you love. Something that you've always dreamed of doing and you fought hard to get there and with every moment of it all you're smiling. Even when there are times that are tough, it's like nothing to you. Nothing sways your mind from your journey. It's being happy doing what you truly love
no doubt about it.

Have you participated in any charity concerts or are you open to perform for free to support a foundation?

i've performed in a few charity concerts and i'm always open to perform for free especially if it's for a good cause. I love using my talents to help others.

You just made the ladies scream lol...well I'll just say happy. Major Kool points for your giving heart.

With every contest and event that comes up for Artists to participate, gain experience, and develop themselves have you entered any lately or will in the future?

Once it's something that's legit and I know it will have a lasting effect, I definitely jump at the opportunity.

Kool at least you see the win in the opportunity.

If there are any because I know there are. What has been the most embarrassing goof-up you've had while performing that you can't seem to live down?

ummmmm...I can't really recall any goof up or anything embarrassing that has happened to me personally.. maybe to my group members but not I lol.
i'm gonna have to ask them.

Ah that's a load of ..... lol. Everybody has a "can't believe that happened" moment . Even though I would love to hear the tales from your group mates this is all about you home fries so we need something.

What separates the Artist from the man - do you show a completely different side of yourself or is it fairly similar?
I am me 24/7, the Happy go lucky Ninja that brightens the room when he walks in lol. The only time i'm actually serious is where i'm creating/writing. i'm mad quiet

when i'm creating.. i'm always to myself when that happens unless it's a collective creating session.. even then i would walk away to go write and come back and be like.. what you think bout this?

How do you compare yourself in the beginning of this journey leading up to this point. What improvements do you see for yourself and is there anything you want
to do different or try?

I was a little naive, needed to be more up front and out spoken with my thoughts. And i have learned from my mistakes and grown alot from them. i'm still growing especially in areas still. I see myself improving in the business aspect of my music..
I'm knowledgeable of it especially from back then.. but there is always something to learn and something to improve on, and also in Engineering. I want to try Snowboarding!! yes i know.. Random lol.

Remember you're talking to the Queen of random lol. That's all I do is jump from one topic to the next (look at this interview!) Snowboarding sounds like fun even though I don't see myself taking a risk so big...but I will admit I've been curious about sky-diving or para-sailing. You're probably thinking girl that's just as risky haha. I don't know what can I say...Engineering sounds fly. Skies the limit!

It's a whole other beast of an animal to perform live compared to recording in the studio. When live you're open and vulnerable and ultimately what happens on the stage stays on the stage. What do you like or dislike about both sides of the creative process?
When writing and recording, it's like creating a baby. You're hype, excited in the process, and also can get overwhelmed, aggravated because things might not be working out the way you thought...
Writer's block is a real mood killer. But once finished...
You're proud of your creation!
Everytime you hear what you've done you're like, "Yea, I did ish! That's my baby, she go hard" with a tear in your eye. Now when you're performing or about to perform your song, it's like showing off your baby. again you're hype and wanna present it the best way possible..And when the crowd receives it with positive reviews, it's like being enveloped with joy, happiness, and excitement straight down to my soul. And feeling is something I would want everyone to experience. The only thing that's negative about performing is wondering and hoping they'll like you and your music.

Through your personal observation and experience what positives and negatives can be found with trying to get into the music industry? If you can change anything about it give us your thoughts on it.
everyone that sees the potential in you and your music will always see it as dollar signs. So they will tell you any and everything to get you to work with them. In fact they don't know the first thing about the music industry let alone getting you in. You can't trust the first person that comes along and says they wanna work with you.
You gotta do your research on the person cause they might lead you to a dead end that you might not be able to turn from.
What I would change about the industry is the music they put out on the radio these days.
There are so many great songs out there that haven't been heard that are waaaay better than what's playing on the radio.
Positives? Sharing my music with the world, traveling, performing, and just pure fun doing the thing I love doing with all my heart.

Has a fan shown you an act of kindness you still
remember to this day?
Made a lil collage of me..

The love and support of fans are what keeps an Artist's career intact and alive.

Give us the skivvy on the junk we thrill over.

While performing live what has been the wildest thing a fan has said or done? (Keeping it as "PG" as possible lol)

Well there was one performance in Trinidad where at the end i went to grab a fan's hand and out of nowhere 20 hands grabbed my arm and pulled me down. so i sat on the edge of the stage thinking they'll calm down in a bit.. NOPE! they grabbed my legs. one of them was tryna take my sneakers. the workers had to come on to the stage and help get me out.. i was traumatized!!! had me scared to leave the green room. I'm the one with the white hat.

In your wildest dreams which venue(s) do you dream of performing in when you've reached the "I Made It" stage in your journey? (subject to change lol)
Madison Square, Japan
I'm a major foodie and enjoy tasty eats.

What is one dish or snack you cannot and I mean
can NOT live without?

When i'm on the road i always have to get a bag of Frito Lays Honey

Roasted Peanuts!! matter of fact, I just bought a big bucket.. that bih's about to last me a good minute! lol..

I Love My Lasagna!!!!!!!!!!

Lmao, you're a trip! Don't even try me on Italian. I'll get you on that Lasagna. But yup honey roasted peanuts are good.
Have you ever had pork cracklings with hot sauce? (waiting for you to detest in hellll nooo! lol)

And while we're on the topic for all the inquiring ladies around the world, can you cook?
cook?? ummmmmmmm..... I'll just say, i can survive.

Aw you just threw water on the flame. Who else out there is highly thrown?!!? Just to survive?!!!? Betta hit up yo momma and the leading ladies in your life for real lol. There's nothing hotter than a guy who understands seasonings and spices (did you not say you wanted a lil "spice" in your single Can't Wait? lol) and can create dishes in the kitchen. Doesn't have to be a Thanksgiving dinner but a dish or two. But since you said survive that may mean you know a lil something..so I'm guessing grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly, or the ultra easy RAMEN NOODLES LOL. Yea I got jokes dude

The harsh reality of growing into one's passion and success many things can change including close friends, family, and those whom you thought were road blocks but turn out to be stepping stones. For you has there been any changes or is everything relatively the same?

Alot of change.. my friends that i was in the group with, haven't talked to one in a long while, the other is pursuing his career and i barely see him though we talk, but the 3rd is still my roll dawg.

You get comments like "Why don't you just quit and go get a Real job?

You don't see the people that was there before supporting like
they did before. you know..
guess they gave up cause they said it was taking too long to make it.
You get comments like,
why don't you just quit
and go get a REAL job?
I love dancing so I dance and people say i'm cocky.
alot of different things that drains your spirit.
But the one thing that has these people draining you is the one thing that replenishes you.

Yes it's a rude awakening everything you mentioned here. And I've heard more than my share of "Why don't you get a real job?" There are certain people I don't even share my interests with because the response is judgmental and negative. No one said we're all supposed to be doing the same thing anyways! What one person does is not what someone else is doing... and the funny thing is it's all about what we deem "important" and "meaningful" as "work". This is just my speculation. If a person such as yourself wants to sing, dance, or perform for a living there are people out here who consider that "fun time" and not productively "working". Little do they know it's called "entertainment" for a reason. What would anyone have to smile about and enjoy for themselves after working all week long when they want to go out and have a good time?!?! We're so used to hearing "cocky" being used negatively but it truly describes a person who is confident and is aware of how good they are. Why not just be honest about it instead of tugging yourself back and forth with uncertainty, "Am I good enough or should I take it this far or not? Nah, just do it...it's just a waste of time , feel me?

Gears switch. Random Meter 100....

What's your favorite color?

Green all day baby!!

Skating, bowling, and hanging out over friend's houses
were the activities on my side of town :)
Growing up, what were some fun pastimes you had with your friends, family, or on your own?

the same thing you just said.
come winter time my friends and i would watch the mighty ducks and after it is over go out and play street hockey. I love bowling,
we played

ghost in the grave yard when it got dark (best time to hide with a girl) football, baseball, kick the can, bike riding exploring different neighborhoods finding new
shortcuts..... through people's yards, Mario Kart 64!!
house parties!! we did it all.
good ole times.

You have me rollin over here on that kick the can Criss. That's how it used to be right? lol I'm down for the MIGHTY DUCKS. Back in 95' at a summer Gymnastics camp it was the go-to in the video stash.
With absolutely nothing to do with gymnastics.

Bike riding was another activity I did with friends too, Mario Kart is nostalgia lol. Remember Sega and Play Station? The farthest I got was Super Nintendo and it was the koolest game system to me aside from Nintendo and Atari. Nothing could beat my Atari, my father and I played Galaga, Donkey Kong, and another game where we had to avoid gun fire and drop bombs on targets. He was always into fighter plane/aircraft games. Growing up you were quite the adventurer & active body! House parties were not the big thing with the peeps I was hanging with even though I can recall a birthday where it was off the chain and no adult supervision haha.
For all the fun you had I'm sure you got into some trouble too. I can tell...lol I want to know what girl would be hiding in a graveyard of all places playing some crazy a** Ghost In The Graveyard game. You look like the mischievous type who would jump out from behind a head stone or tree making crazy sounds with a mask on.

If you've traveled the world and been fortunate to experience other countries, cultures, experiences, spirituality. Share with us one special place you've had the privilege of visiting. If you haven't been anywhere where would you like to visit?

i've been to Trinidad many a times to perform and share the Music. Always went when it was carnival

season so i got to experience Trinidad at its best cause Carnival is their biggest thing.

Japan is my next stop!! haha!

Wow yea you were right in the middle of party central for sure. The closest I've experienced "carnival" is down in New Orleans. You know how they do it. I can imagine Trinidad's style with it though lol. Let me know when you trail off to Japan. That should be a fun experience.
Very unique cultural diversion.

If you can meet anyone in the world, alive or deceased, who would it be and why would it mean so much to you?

Justin Timberlake/Nsync
Definitely a no brainer at this point lol

Any songs you would want to sing or perform for them?

Good For You, My Love

I like My Love too!
Fav lines I can see us holding hands, Walking on the beach, our toes in the sand. I can see us on the countryside. Sitting on the grass, laying side by side. You could be my baby, let me make you my lady, Girl you amaze me. Ain't gotta do nothing crazy. See, all I want you to do is be my love.

Every guy is different and likes particular "traits or assets" on a woman that turn their head. Without stating the obvious and you know what I mean lol, what traits do you value the most in a potential partner?

Physical, I’m a legs man, personality, down to earth, whole lotta fun, and just loves to smile and have fun.

Boy go get a leg at KFC or Popeyes lol.

Ladies if you like to show-off your sexy gams and love for guys to scope them out then this is your guy! With a fun-loving persona and killer smile you may not be able to get rid of this one. Looks like he'll be making a few passes at ya.

I'm curious since you love a lady with some hot legs, which celebrity and/or public figure has the finest you've ever seen or turns you completely on?

There are a whole lot of many!!

My gosh, Jessica Alba, Christina Milian, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Catherine Zeta-Jones from The Mask Of Zorro, Kelly Rowland, Salma Hayek from Once Upon A Time In Mexico, Eva Longoria, Ashley from the Pussycat Dolls that is always doin the leg lift showing how flexible she is, Keri Hilson OMG!! Ciara! Ashanti..my goodness when she lube em up havin them all shiny.. :siiiigh:

FROM L to R: Kelly Rowland from Destiny's Child, actress Eva Longoria,

& actress Salma Hayek

Leg Fetish for sure!

Somehow I think this turned into a fantasy confessional lol. The minute details were added with "Once Upon A Time In Mexico" I knew you had a scene or visual in mind.

Has a lucky lady caught your heart or are you
a wanted bachelor?

I'm a bachelor, wanted..
I can't say, these beautiful women always wait till time has passed to tell me they used to like me or had a huge crush on me ::smh::
How is that gonna help me now at this moment? lol
Humbly carry on, telling them you appreciate their kindness, and let them swoon over you. The best revenge is showing kindness and looking the other way lol. There's too many other potential women in the world who would give you the time. Just saying

What are the top 3-5 items you absolutely cannot leave home without?

Keys, wallet, I guess Cell phone.. if I have one lol.

Honest and so silly...whatcha mean if you have one?!? lol You know you have 2-3 like all these other Artists who need to be tracked by everyone in their camp. I would pull my hair out if I had a phone ringing from every direction. But you kool, I believe ya.

Take us on the CRISSANJI Daily Grind :) In short captions what is a typical day in your life like from the time you get up and when you lay yourself down to sleep?

Wake up, if I remember to eat, I eat then go straight to do studio work. I can be down there for hooouuurrsss all through the night. Pretty much that’s me everyday lol.
Wait til your stomach starts gurgling then you'll remember to eat lol. That's something though going from 4 corners to another box with four corners. Depending on the type of work it can get redundant sometimes unless there's a break or a change in scenery. How do you keep yourself from getting cabin fever or stir crazy?
Stoppin and hanging with friends, watchin tv, goin for a drive, fooood!

Your style is rather edgy on the punk side. You don't seem shy at all with representing yourself with your fashion choices. How did you come up with this look for yourself and what image are you trying to give the world through it?

"Once I started jamming to their songs I started looking into the whole punk rock scene, emo, genre of style and I just loved it all."

I’ll have to give my sister props for my style.. if she wasn’t forcing punk rock down my throat I wouldn’t have found out about Paramore. Once I started jamming to their songs I started lookin into the whole punk rock scene, emo, genre of style and
I just loved it all.

I guess I’ll say just to be yourself. No matter what people

say or hate or judge, what I do, I do it cause I want to.. cause I like it. It doesn’t matter what people think..

PARAMORE

I’m doin me and I always will..
Do you! Do what you like!
Because at the end of the day, people are gonna end up following you anyway.. they always wanted to do what you're doing, just didn’t have the balls to do it. Trust!

I dig! That's really neat how your sis got you hip to a group like Paramore and it introduced you to the punk rock, emo scene. I'm seeing it in your look clearly now :)
Love your "live by your own means" attitude. I swear I've heard it a time or two (from my own mouth lol) but it's awesome, don't ever lose it. Sexy nonetheless.

What labels, brands, or off-brands, do you go for?

I don’t really go for any in particular. It's whatever catches my eye and I like how it looks on me I’m def getting it. I really don’t pay attention to labels. I don’t even know who made the shirt I’m wearing
right now lol.

Same here I like anything that looks right. Well you surely got that together. Head to Toe inspiration. But you never know once you break in that world so many want in so badly you'll be exposed to all designer threads. It's real flashy and it doesn't mean that's what it will be all about with you because you know who you are as a person and Artist. But I aint surprised if you don't get inspired to do a remake of "Shirt by Versace" lol

It's always smart to have a back-up plan for any changes in the road. If you believe in your passion and will stop at nothing to reach your goal then there's really no stopping. But what other skills do you possess that you can use successfully if the path you're leading doesn't take off?
Do have knowledge in any fields as a plan B?
nope! No plan B lol if I fail at this, I fail myself.. that’s how I feel. I hear people talking about plan B all the time and I would sit and think.. what would I do if this doesn’t go my way? And I would try to come up with a plan B but, there is nothing else I see myself doing.

Even though it's easier to have a soft place to fall to be driven as strongly as you are only guarantees your hard-work paying off. No matter how long it takes. You know this is your path so I'm rooting for your success! One day I'll be able to say yea I interviewed that cat when he was at the beginning because I knew he was great and look how it took off for him. I'll be walking around "cocky"
and boasting about it lol!

There's so much going on out here and it gets hard staying focused and motivated to continue a path
we've set for ourselves.

It takes courage, determination, perseverance, a strong support team (family and friends), and more. What words of encouragement or support keeps you going no matter what?

My love for music is what keeps me motivated. But it’s the words of friends, fam, fans, supporters saying they love a song or they’re jamming to one of my songs right now. It gets me even more hype because they genuinely love my music.

How do you manage and turn bad situations into positive when you don't have the comfort of family/friends?

Cartoons.

Feel good medicine. 80's babies in the house! lol
Which Cartoons in particular? You mentioned Naruto awhile back...growing up my favs like for so many of us were Warner Bros. Looney Tunes Merrie Melodies & of course all of the Hanna-Barbera cartoons.

It's always good to encourage others who are inspired to do the same as you. From your experiences, wins, and losses, what advice or tips can you give up and coming music Artists who have only their ideas and a dream?

Even though you're still on a journey any tips
you can give is helpful.

Learn from experience.
Don’t let a negative situation veer you from what you’re aiming for.
Don’t let others mold your music into something that’s theirs. If you

"Don't let others mold your music into something that's theirs."

don’t like it, say so. Just because they are producers or engineers that did this, this, and this or worked with him, him, and her doesn’t mean what they are saying is right for you..
always follow your heart
and listen to your gut.

We're already 10 months in to 2013, what should we the people expect to see or hear from you in the upcoming months before 2014 hits?

I Have a single I’m droppin really soon. It's my first Official single off my first album I’ve worked so hard on. The single is called “Whip It”. it’s a fun song that I know the masses will love! Cant wait to share it with everyone!!
I’m hype just thinking about it!

I'm feeling the vibe! Excited for you too.
You were so kind to let me preview it. Is it possible to give our readers a sneak peek with the single puuurty pleeeze? ;)

Where do you see yourself leading with your music and what do you expect to accomplish in the next 3-5 years?
I wanna be traveling the world sharing my music with my fellow music lovers, performing for them and showing them why
I love what I do.

If you can thank anyone for encouraging you to pursue your dreams or has been that rock to hold it down for you who do you want to give a shout out to?

Everyone! Especially my family. Also shout out to Kimberly in my first grade class for being the first that I can remember to say that I can sing.

"I pray to God I don't conform to what the industry says goes"

When the final chapter of your story comes to its final page, what do you want the world to remember about you, that future generations will know?

That I came to influence and I did just that..
My way without conforming..
I pray to God I don’t conform to what the industry says goes.

Me neither!
Well this has been one of the most fun and fabulous time sharing with you CRISSANJI. And to leave it all on a final note how can we keep in touch with the Latest & Greatest?

Website in construction but www.Crissanji.com

Facebook.com/Crissanji

Follow me on instagram: @Crissanji_Official

Follow me on Twitter: @Crissanji

My Email is: CrissanjiOfficial@gmail.com

For more on the rising Star from Florida check back at his official site listed above!

Rock'N Out In British Columbia With Cupla

2013-08-09T11:00:00.000-04:00

Whuddup Whuddup Kool World! Long time no see. It is great to be back to return to our series

of the greatest acts in the making from around the world. We're going north and I'm talking

bout waaaay up north to British Columbia, also known as C.A.N.A.D.A! For all the Beliebers out

there yes, it's where your boy Justin Bieber was born, raised, and exported right out to America

for his amazing talents. What better way to visit this beautiful and majestic country than to

heck out the scene for what the latest acts are doing. Our travels takes us to Vancouver on to the

music scene once more. This time we're going all out rock and to be even more specific

Alternative Rock with my latest new find, CUPLA. This five member band of four fly guys and a

one fly gal takes us on a journey through their Canadian backdrop to enliven our minds on what

the music scene is like where they come from. From the Blues & Sleaze Rock the mixture can

only create a melting pot of amazing original sounds and that is what you're about to witness.

Get your passports and lets take a trip to bc. Here's your next Artists on the Rise CUPLA!

Hi Everyone!
It's a pleasure meeting an entire Rock band and from Canada no doubt!

Isn't it great Cupla, are you believing now near to 8 months into 2013 that your dreams are really coming true. Looks like you're rising to the top rather productively.

There's something you don't know about me that I must confess...

I'm a Talent Psychic and it looks like I've snagged a family tree here...hmmm

I'm checking my crystal ball and tapping into my intuitive psyche

and before we even get into it I already know there's a strong family

dynamic. MCALONEY is the vision before my eyes!

There has got to be a connection with this last name and the birth of CUPLA as the name of your band.

L to R: Andrew Venning, Tricia McAloney, Bobby McAloney, Kevin James Hall, Billy McAloney

L to R: Bobby & Billy McAloney

I think it’s so dope I’m actually meeting twins so tell us Billy & Bobby is there a way we

can tell you both a part? I'm already seeing a difference =P

Yes it does! You gave it all away in your photo, which is great for all of us who are
fascinated with doubles, triples, and so forth of the same person lol!
All of you are my first ::clapping:: inner-scope backstage pass into the world of Canadians

http://blarneystone.ca/

http://www.megabitepizza.com/default.aspx

And you know what that means, a tour snippet is definitely what we need ;)
Share with us what life is like in BC as your home especially Vancouver.
The way of life, culture, food favs, popular pastimes to engage in, hot hang-outs, all the good stuff.

http://www.therailwayclub.com/

Better Believe it! We will surely take note on a great pizza joint. Uncle Fatih's it shall be ;)

But because you mentioned MegaBites there's no way we can avoid a slice from there too.
I want some right now too! How about Canadian air-mail?

Mmmm! It looks really good

I've been to Canada once many years ago with family. The landscape is nice and clean.

Very beautiful homes and yards much like a utopia from my perspective :)
I can still remember us going to KFC because black folks gotta have their chicken
and trying to figure out the currency difference. Still can't remember if we had to
convert our US dollars and cents into Canadian cash but somehow I believe we
didn't have to. It all worked out even though we looked interesting from the viewpoint
of the residents. Probably wondering where did this family of black people come from lol.
Especially for us seeing a KFC run by Canadians! Real world 101 for sure haha.
Out-of-towners and black always brings curious gazes for sure even in America.

Architecturally Astounding homes :)

Beautiful Landscape! Dream vacay

You better believe you can find it all here! It's time for trip #2

How did Alternative Rock become the direction you wanted to represent your sound?

And that's why the art you all create is more grounded and in the bigger scheme of things, gives you all an edge for being down to earth. On the music scene who would ever think there's an exclusivity when everyone is in the same place trying to make it. But it exists in more areas than expected! I'm finding out in the spoken word and poetry communities the same exists and it took my own awareness and connecting with specific artists to open my eyes in seeing that. Poet BlaQ Ice shares his thoughts on this through his own experiences as a spoken word Artist. Read here. Even though I'm not a fan of beer lol, I'd rather listen to what's fun and spill beer too!

HE IS LEGEND

DROPKICK MURPHYS

ANDREW W.K.

Most def! The Rock and Blues elements are influential in the elements of your sound. It's Great. With Soul & R&B having a major influence on me growing up from listening to my father's music and what my mother liked I've found the connection to love. At the root of music there has to have some bonding or feeling to reach out to people and combining what you have does it tremendously. Pulling from all genres definitely expands your horizons for advanced and richly original advantages!

There's something there that's brewing in the pot!

Without a doubt with your determination there's going to be great things

surfacing...just give it time and we'll be seeing you all over the place here in the US

AND around the world too! Headlining SOLD-Out shows.

By the way I loved how you Andrew in the middle of playing you stopped, took a sip from your drink, and continued playing during your Blacktop Blues performance @ The Railway Club.
Just epic… (in my mind I’m like “seriously, who does that!”)
Looks & Sounds like a Rockstar.

Some songs I’ve listened to I’m definitely getting a Bluesy vibe and then some others with the contrast of Tricia’s voice has a mellow, monotone almost goth-like vibe.

Are you defining "Alternative Rock" differently than other groups and how does yours stand out?

I’ve had the honor of speaking with music acts more particularly in the urban hip-hop genres.

An EP or mixtape is released to fans to give them a sample preview for what can possibly be on the next upcoming album. Is this also common on the Alternative Rock scene and have you released any collections of work?

We have a EP and a full length album "Letter's Home" we released almost 2 years ago now ,
We have a full album plus of new material and we have a different guitar player in Andrew and a different Bassist in Kevin so it's going to be a seriously rocking album !
CLICK Here to Listen & Buy!

Some of your favorite artists and musicians are: White Stripes, Black Keys, Alexisonfire, & The Stills. Are there any artists or musicians from other parts of the world and genres opposite to your own that you enjoy?
( hint hint lol! United States as one)

STONE SOUR

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE

Tricia, the rock chanteuse on the scene reppin' for all the ladies!

Anytime we see a woman in a group of guys we must get the 411

because there's bound to be something fascinating!

As a listener I'm always comparing and breaking down what I hear.

Your voice sounds so familiar like an Artist from the 80’s and early 90's.

Tell us how you got into singing and how long you’ve been doing it for.

After listening to Patti Smith's Grace there's a similarity! I can hear it.

Patti Smith

And then we have the fellas!
The McAloney Twins: Billy on the drums, Bobby on guitar, Andrew on guitar, and Kevin as the bassist.

For all the viewers out here who are musicians what particular make/styles are you playing and what about these instruments tells us about who you are?

Kevin you're fairly a newbie to the group with your first performance with the group setting off the New Year 2013 @ The Railway Club.

Good timing for jumping in the saddle as a musician too!
Were you performing with a group

Were you a solo act before joining this group or were you performing with a group &
What addition do you bring to the group that wasn't there before?

For real though to be smaller than the instrument is a feat of its own! We commend you on handling the heavy duty to deliver great material. Bassists are awesome in a band. Having you in addition will give the group's sound a touch of only what Kevin can bring. Keep that back strong & manageable!

And then we finally meet the guitarist Andrew!

Tell us about your place in Cupla and how you stand-out within the group as one of the guitarists.

OK this has to be one of the sexiest descriptions I've had so far! lol ...tasteful face-melting Bluesy guitar solos over the heavy rhythms..I'm just saying. I'm already hearing the riffs now. held-out long wailing and heart stopping produced by lead guitarist Andrew. Your role consists of important parts standing at the head of the pack!

What groups have you been told you remind people of or resemble musically?

LED ZEPPELIN

SONIC YOUTH

Your last recent showcase was in your hometown Vancouver, TDVancouver International Jazz Festival in July.
Tell us about this festival and what your experience was like performing there with fellow groups Los Homres & RHIOF.

It Looks like I've caught you at the right time!
Will you be making a first-time Canadian invasion to the US this coming August?

BIRCH BAY MUSIC FESTIVAL

Hopefully we'll make a great impression on you in America and encourage you
to stay longer than just one performance;)

One of the songs that caught my attention and ultimately made me want to know more about you is

"My Stand" written by band member Bobby.
Tell us what inspired you to create this song. It's just what we need to hear with this bullying epidemic facing today's generation.

http://www.thebullyproject.com/

http://thebullymovie.tumblr.com/

A 12 year old girl named Maddy who I presume has experienced the ugly realities facing today's youth with bullying used your song as the theme of a video she made. It had to touch deep knowing your music is touching lives so effectively but also to show you what's happening with us as human beings and how it's effecting today's youth.

Canada's National Pink Shirt Day Feb 27, 2013

What makes groups like you so special is your devotion to supporting your community & creating world change.

You're not just performing to reach world-wide recognition and stardom

(which is not too bad with the work you're putting in!) you believe in helping the people of the world. Through your art you embrace those who need positive role models like The Boys and Girls Club of Vancouver and bringing awareness to bullying through Canada’s National Pink Shirt Day.
If you were to be signed by a major label today how would you expand your vision and talents in a way that weren’t possible before as an unsigned group?

With the most recent hot topic in the US and around the world surrounding the indictment of George Zimmerman in the Trayvon Martin trial what is your stand on violence as a group who puts the message out to their audience to accept and love one another?

Let’s take a detour for all our readers into the CUPLA CAVE… duh duh duuuh lol!

I love how you've given a name to your rehearsal space.

Please tell us how you came up with "The Cupla Cave" to describe it and how you spend time rehearsing.


This sounds so great that I must take on Bobby's idea to give viewers a tour of the cave through social media. What a great way to let your fans and newbies in on your life-style! Panorama view.

What Top 3 acts would you love to perform alongside?

BAND OF HORSES

BIG SUGAR & JACK WHITE

Definitely give us the “real” if you may, even if you don’t see yourselves in the light of super-stardom, there’s a delusion sometimes that can set an Artist or band's audience thinking a part from reality. We love our entertainers and forget they are people too.

In the US one of the new trends in the entertainment world is to create fan names, terms of endearment for supporters, such as Mariah Carey calling her fans Lambs, Lady Gaga calls her fans Lil’ Monsters, Justin Bieber (Fellow Canadian!) Beliebers, and on on it goes.
Has Cupla created a name for their growing following?

They're open for suggestions Kool World! Send them your thoughts and you may have your name chosen by the group ;)

What has been the most memorable token of affection a fan has shown you or better yet, gave as a gift?

lol and think about it Tricia it looks like you're already making an impact! It's amazing how music makes us feel like we know the person or people personally. You're sharing yourself and the vulnerability so openly that it opens the door to people's emotions. It can be powerful!

That is pretty big for real! You're an inspiration to today's youth :) And you're right to say YET Billy lol, it's coming. Get Ready to Rumbbbbble!

So inquiring minds are dying to know, you’ve already been to many venues even if it’s mostly in your community, have you had any wild experiences while performing on stage?
Fans throwing particular objects (guys!) lol or trying to run up on you when you leave the stage and behind the scenes?

lol Alright Rock Goddess! She's already initiating the mayhem guys you better be ready. The spitfire has spoken!

Since Justin Beiber took over the American pop circuit by storm back in 2008 as a teen superstar with hits: “Baby”, “One Time”, “One Less Lonely Girl”, he really put Canada on the map as becoming Today's Generation Pop Idol. But there’s also other famous Canadians who have rocked the US stage and continue to do so such as Celine Dion, Alanis Morissette, Shania Twain, Nelly Furtado, Avril Lavigne, Barenaked Ladies, Nickelback, Corey Hart, Crash Test Dummies.

Have any of your fellow Canadians made a special or surprising appearance at any shows or venues while you were performing?

Aw That's alright though! There will be more opportunities and word will spread about you that they'll be sure to get the juice on CUPLA ;) Just wait they will want to meet you and see you perform. Better yet think big...you can open for them or have them as a special guest act. Anything can happen! ::singing in my Ellie Goulding voice:: lol

PROTEST THE HERO

So now let’s get in on your thoughts because that is what’s up.

How has it been for you trying to reach this point together and what hardships/struggles have you had to face throughout this journey?

What do you like and dislike (or wish you can change) about the music you're hearing & observing today with respects to what you create with your own?

Is there anything you believe in your heart and soul that's missing from your contemporaries on the music front?

The time has come that many Artists who don't usually gain major recognition, if not some, for their voices to have their moment and to resonate. After so long of listening to the same redundancy it becomes so engrained in our minds that it takes longer for something new and fresh to set in and make its point. Yea the club hits makes us want to dance, the quintessential country ballads still has its niche, and the "Hollywood" life is glamorized at the max but we still need something to ground us. We're caught up in the 'look of it all' that we're forgetting to observe, relate, and listen.
Tricia's "Logan's Wraith" is how to get the ball rolling. To dive into a dark place is a brave thing to do and sharing it with the world.

What advice would you give Today’s aspiring music Artists and musicians trying to pursue their dreams just as you are?

From your standpoint what is it about the world of music that you come from that many of us on the outside do not understand?

What legacy do you want to leave behind when the final chapter of your life reaches its final page?

Where do you see yourselves professionally and personally in the next 4 years of your lives?

If you can give credit to anyone or anything, tell us who or what deserves it for believing in you and encouraging your dreams, and is in the long haul with you?

What is the best way for fans to keep up with All things Great & Fab with Cupla?

This has been a moment in the spotlight with the 1 and only CUPLA from British Columbia!

For more information on the rising act from Vancouver contact & engage with them on social media to keep up with where they will be performing and their latest releases. They're down home so if you're able to go to their live events spend some time with them and chat for the ultimate fill-in. Cupla wants to hear from you Kool World so give them a shout-out and come on out to their 1st US act if you're in the Washington state area for AUGUST 10 @ The BIRCH BAY MUSIC FESTIVAL! Let's keep them here or at least coming back as long as possible and the best way is to bring your family and friends to show love and support!

Rat-A-Tat-Tat Pitter Pat Pounding Drums & Vibrating Cymbals with Brook Alexander

2013-07-27T02:00:00.000-04:00

The brightest of stars not only appear as the leading acts in the forefront of sold-out shows and tours but also make up the backbone of the entire act. The musicians who accompany the leading artist are just as important, becoming the family that creates the most memorable performances of all time. Come with me and witness a star-shining moment with one of the brightest, most humble, and down to earth rising musicians you will ever meet in today’s music scene. Cali’s Inglewood native Brook Alexander, lead drummer of the mind-blowing act we know to be Grammy Award Winner R&B singer/recording Artist Miguel, has a well-defined view of where he’s going and what can be accomplished. With the world in his hands and dozens of screaming fans arriving at every show-stopping performance he shares amazing sage knowledge that only a professional and devoted musician can learn through his time performing in the OMG Tour with Usher, Trey Songz, and Miguel and currently R&B singer Kenny Lattimore. You will dive into the mind of the drummer whose discovery by talent manager Ben Ricciardi jump-started his path to excellence in today’s contemporary R&B renaissance.

Brook, Brook, Brook! Wow it’s so hard to keep up with you hot stuff! It’s an absolute Hal-lelu-jah moment to actually have a moment to get to know the drummer who performed alongside this year’s R&B Grammy Award Winner Miguel!
Thank you for lending your time with us.
How are you?
Thanks so much! I greatly appreciate it. I’m doing quite all right. Ready to see what the year has in store for me. I have a good feeling about it!
I bet and we want to know aaallll about it too and even more about you! I hear that you’re a California native, the “Hollywood star’s universe”. Where can we place your origins within the land of the stars?

I was born in Los Angeles, California but I was raised in Inglewood, California. Growing up in Inglewood was pretty cool. Got to experience a few things, meet some pretty cool people, learned a number of important lessons. It’s where I spent a good amount of my childhood. There were just a few ugly moments that I’ve experienced, shootings and whatnot, but I really can’t say that I’ve witnessed anything TOO crazy. I’m proud to be a native of Inglewood.

Geeze you must be tough as nails to not consider “shootings and whatnot” to be TOO crazy. Coming from where I’m from (did you catch my Anthony Hamilton voice? lol) ANY shooting would be too crazy for me. You’re quite positive despite your flying bullet experience. You can still show
mad love to Inglewood, sweet. As a starter point take us on into how music, specifically the drums played such an integral role in your life.

I’ve been playing drums since the age of 2. I got my first drum set when I was 4, but 2 is where it really all started (21 years my goodness! I’m old yo lol!). I can kiiiiiind of play piano also. I’m trying to get better at it, just so I can be able to keep up with all my other homies that are amazing at it. Music was constantly around me at all times. Radio, church, television, everywhere! I just always found it fascinating in some way, shape, or form. It made me feel good (Halle Berry voice). If I wasn’t watching The Power Rangers or playing with my toys, believe:

“ I was somewhere in the house listening to something on the radio/cd player, with two pencils in my hands as my drumsticks.”

Ha! Did I mention he’s a wise-crack too Kool World?!! This guy just did a Halle liner on us. This is what I like about you, easily relatable. Your family is extremely musically inclined from one end to the other so unlike many households just waking up in the morning music fills the air. To step into your home right now what kind of world would I be stepping into?
My entire family does something musical…My mom sings, my little brother also plays drums, my dad plays organ and keyboards, my grandfather plays piano, my uncles play piano and organ, EVERYONE plays something and it’s amazing! You should see what our family get-together look like. On top of everyone being a singer/musician, my grandfather and a number of his brothers are pastors. So we meet up at one of their churches and spend time together. Those joints end up turning into a regular church service lol! One of my older cousins is also in the music industry. She’s actually on tour background singing in the Cirque De Soleil Michael Jackson show, and that’s just ONE of the things she’s been blessed to do in her career. We’re a blessed family I tell you…

Yes! truly blessed indeed a true musical soiree with the fam. Maybe one day all of you can stop by as the black Van Trapp family and put on a real show. There’s also nothing like a live band at church to set the spiritual mood right as well. I’m sure without a doubt your family supports your choice in career.

My family absolutely supports my career choice. They supported me when I decided to leave college to pursue my dream, and they still support me now because they know it’s something that I love. They knew that playing drums was something that I enjoyed, and something I was good at. My mom and dad watched me beat up their furniture. They saw me configure a drum set out of pots and pans, and they acted upon it by getting me a real one. I made a LOT of noise in their house for a solid 17 years, and they didn’t complain one time. When I started getting these opportunities to tour and everything, they were extremely proud.

“I’ll never forget when I did the OMG Tour with Miguel at the Staples Center in LA.”

OMG TOUR Thanksgiving Day

After we finished performing, the crowd was cheering and applauding, and the one person I could hear cheering over every other person in that arena was my mom. I kid you not…I’m so thankful that they noticed my passion. I don’t know what I’d be doing right now if it weren’t for them.

Oh my Lord! You’re going to make me tear up now. To have your mom rooting for you had to be the greatest feeling. It is thoroughly enjoyable to watch all of you guys—You, Brook D’ Leau, Kelsey, Dru, and Miguel rock out together. How long have you been performing in front of a live audience?
I didn’t really perform LIVE until I was about 10, when I became the drummer for my grandpa’s church. I was too afraid to play drums in front of people before that age for some reason. And I guess I would say the performance that jump-started the professional journey was this oneparticular night that I played at this local jam session that they had here in Cali. There was a spot called “Cozy’s,” and people would just come out and play/sing songs all night. One night I ended up playing 3 songs and got to do a solo in one of them.
The people loved it, and that’s how I met

From L to R: The Stage!! , View from the stage! So dope!! , The Badge!, Hotel in Baltimore. Snazzy little place, Usher's sound check... he's up there. Try and find him!

Ben Ricciardi, who was the one that got me the audition with Miguel. Good lookin’ Ben! Migs was going on tour with Usher very soon, and they checked me out, and a few other guys on drums. I went in, did my thing, and got a call from Miguel saying that he wanted me to go on the road with him as his drummer. I don’t think I’ve ever been that excited since! That changed my life… I’m grateful to Migs for giving me the opportunity, and I’m proud to say that I’ve gotten a chance to work with him on many occasions.
To think it can happen just like that–extraordinary. Good looking out is right for Ben Ricciardi because if it wasn’t for people like him paying close attention who knows if another chance would’ve ever came along. So the BIG question is will we see you performing with Migs at the one and only 55th Grammy Awards?
I won’t be with him at the Grammys, but my boy RJ Kelly may be with him playing drums. I’ve actually embarked on another journey with Kenny Lattimore recently. But, I’ll definitely be tuning in hoping that Miguel gets a Grammy, which I’m sure he will. He’s more than deserving of it…

Well…sooky sooky now Mr. Alexander! Kenny Lattimore aint too bad at all. You’re moving up in the world. We will definitely be scoping out this new venture you’re embarking and since we’re on the topic of major headlining acts maybe you can share some of your inside tales of the “life behind the stage”. Anything juicy you can share with us is highly favored

–without pleading the 5th!

Well…. Hahaha! The first major tour I did was the OMG tour. It was Miguel, Trey Songz, and Usher…. I really don’t need to continue LOL! Nah there really isn’t anything “juicy” to tell really. We did the gig, went back to the bus, and headed to an after-party, have a good time with the whole crew, and did it again the next day!

OMG tour: New Years!

umhm it’s just that simple, riiight! Don’t worry we can imagine haha. But for real though the after-parties are it. It’s where a roadie like yourself would want to be as a traveling musician. What did you take away from performing and engaging up close and personal with Mr. “Sure Thing” himself?
Miguel is probably one of the most interesting people I’ve ever worked with. Working with him was a process… and I’m saying that in the best way possible. He’s the kind of artist that knows exactly what he wants to hear, and what he wants to convey, and if something doesn’t sound right, it’s not going down lol! And I appreciated that because in some situations, I’ve adapted that mentality. I appreciate Miguel’s passion for what he does, and his desire to blow minds while remaining in his own lane and being himself.

Chillin with Butterz!

That inspired me to approach anything the same way. Gotta stay in my own lane. Plus the shows were always crazy!! I’ve also gotten to work with Kenny Lattimore. Kenny is also a great artist to work with. Very humble, passionate, and he looks out for anyone that’s working with him. He understands his purpose in this music industry, and like Miguel, he remains who he is and will not conform whatsoever. Every show I do with Kenny is always a lot of fun. He lets us be us, because he’s doing the exact same thing himself. And working in the studio with him was amazing… it was long! But amazing!

Jay Leno Soundcheck! Check us out tonight on NBC! Feb 17, 2011

“I appreciate Miguel’s passion for what he does, and his desire to blow minds while remaining in

his own lane and being himself. That inspired me to approach anything the same way. Kenny is

also a great artist to work with. He understands his purpose in this music industry, and like

Miguel, he remains who he is and will not conform whatsoever.”

Fun times with Miguel and Wale

Staying true to one self is the biggest challenge us people, on the outside, have come to realize about the music industry. There’s conformity and we see it with Music Artists especially after the second or third album. One song I can still remember from Kenny Lattimore is “For You”. It was such a big deal leading up to the release of the video and I still remember and love it to this day. With Miguel and Lattimore knowing exactly what they want as Artists, not budging for anyone, there should be a certain amount of freedom as a musician to create music for them…

Kenny Lattimore

To a certain extent…if the artist wants the music to go a certain route, then that’s exactly how you have to take it. However, we are free to include our own style. They give us the freedom to express ourselves within their project. With my own projects, I could be inspired by anything. Movies, movie scores, people on the street, other styles of music, anything. It has to hit me out of nowhere though. That’s when it works best for me…when it’s not forced.
I’m glad you touched on “feeling the inspiration” to create instead of just putting out just to put out anything because surely there’s pressure at one point in time one way or another. There’s pressure regardless on trying to live up to and meet the expectations but nothing compares to trying to get noticed and putting yourself out there.

What a few people fail to realize, is that if you’re really good at something, you have to share that with people. You have to let people know that you can do what you can do. Expose your gift to the world. I made sure that somebody knew that I could play some dang on drums! I networked, I got out of my comfort zone, and I displayed my gift. When people know that you can do what you can do, then the sky is the limit! Because everybody knows somebody, that knows somebody, that knows somebody! So really, it’s up to you to just simply advertise yourself to the right person/people, and word spreads like wildfire. You have to stand out as well. Show someone that for some reason, YOU, of all people deserve to get the opportunity. Also, anybody can be the best whatever in the world, but if your arrogant, difficult to work with, and unprofessional, your time in any field will be cut short. The talent might get you there, but a good personality and your professionalism will guarantee longevity.

“… if you’re really good at something, you have to share that with people. You have to let people know that you can do what you can do.”

Powerful and extremely valuable advice you’ve just given that everyone will take with them forever in whatever their endeavors are. At this point in time the number of requests would be climbing I presume from all your appearances and connections so far. How are you managing your scheduling and gigs at this point in time?

I actually don’t have a manager or anything. I’ve been getting connected through friends of mine that recommend me for work. At some point I probably will get a manager though. That may take my career to the next level, but for now I’m managing myself.

Very impressive you’ve been handling all your business on your own. Take heed Kool World, this guy is the real –ish. In terms of the slam, bam, bang of the cymbals and pounding of the drums, what distinguishes your style from another drummer?

My style is aggressive, yet tender… I’ll go all out, but I’ll do so in a way that the music is still respected. I’m all about taste. I like to have a purpose for everything thing that I do when I’m playing, but on a few occasions I will go completely stupid on you for no reason whatsoever. I guess you could call it… Gumbo LOL! It’s a nice mixture of everything!

ha! Good ole’ GUMBO huh, just like Danny Wayne. Ya’ll must have connections (wink). The crab are the drum sticks, the cymbals are the sausage, the sound of both together are the rice, and all the other fixins’ represent the wildin’ out! Which brings me to this, I’m sure you’ve thought of what would make the BEST dream performance of all time…

Well this is kind of epic… I have WAY too many answers. My Ultimate performance would consist of the following: performing at the Grammies, playing on Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve, performing as part of the headlining act at Coachella, playing at the Rock In Rio festival, playing during an American Idol finale, doing an arena tour in which I’m playing for the headliner, and the biggest one of all for me… playing a Super Bowl halftime show.


From L to R: Conan Show, The Tonight Show Wall of Fame! So many dope people have been here, They treat you so good! Even the Band gets a room. I can't wait to play their again, THE TONIGHT SHOW Rickey Minor and the Tonight Show Band! Teddy was rippin that KIT! The Tonight Show Stage, and Kelsey Gonzalez, The band chillin in the dressing room!

My list of people that I want to perform with include the following!: Jojo, Justin Timberlake, Ciara, Kendrick Lamar, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber (judge me!), Childish Gambino, John Mayer, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, The Backstreet Boys, Beyonce, Sting, P!nk, F.U.N, Maroon 5, Jhene Aiko, Brandy, Skrillex, Paul McCartney, PRINCE, If he was still here with us… Michael Jackson…I’ll end it right there smh. Also, it’s a dream of mine to work on a movie score. I don’t know how I’m gonna do it, but I’d love to work with Alan Menken, Hans Zimmer, and John Williams. These guys are some of my favorite movie score composers. Fashionable look, honestly I don’t even trip too hard about that. I play in the backrounds yo lol, as long as I look GOOD I’m straight.
Mighty List! I love your zest for what you love to do and seeing how far you can go with it. A music score would be awesome. As a Belieber you don’t have to worry about being judged on the Biebs. He has a fly act and if I were you he would be on my list too. And of course with all the fast-paced excitement and thrills there’s the other side of the coin. How do you handle what can be considered the “dark” side of this life?
Honestly, when stuff gets tough for me on the road, I pray. Take a while to just be by myself and pray. When you’re on the road for a long period of time, it beats you down. Sometimes you miss holidays, birthdays, funerals, it’s tough! But prayer is a powerful thing. And of course with technology now-a-days, it’s easy to get in touch with your people back home. So reaching out to your family and friends is highly suggested. The music industry is a tough business. On top of it being tiring and demanding, you’ll have to do a bunch of stuff you don’t want to do, and do so with a smile on your face. And you will have a number of bumps in the road. Whether it’s from management disagreements, some political nonsense, etc.

“You all see the lights, the stages, all the fans, the VIP treatment and all that, but at the end of the day we’re still regular people that are just doing our jobs.”

Granted it’s an amazing job to have, but you gotta have tough skin and a right mind to be successful
in this business.

Arriving at Coachella!

Sincere and honest. This surely touched my heart and many others, thank you for sharing your insight. Now you have an opportunity to focus on your own self-made projects. From watching a video with you and your band mate John Whitt Jr. you both have great, fun, creative energy together. Costumes, silliness, and just acting like two big hams. How did it turn out?

We initially weren’t even gonna shoot the video for that song we arranged, but we just said what the heck! The song was the focal point though. We just really wanted to do something where we could put our ideas to a song and make it feel more LIVE. It was a good way for us to practice arranging songs for live performances too. We’ve done a few of those together actually.

We started a few years back by creating an intro idea for Miguel. We never got to show it to him, but I still think that’s one of the best projects that we’ve done. There is another project that we’ve done that’s up on you tube. It’s just a video of me playing drums to it, but John and I did the same thing to a song from the Avatar soundtrack. To this day, that is still my absolute favorite thing that we’ve done. I honestly don’t think anything else we do can top that lol. I wanted to present something different. Drummers all over the world were doing drum covers of pop, hip-hop, and r&B songs. I wanted to stand out and do something different, so I had the idea to do a drum cover to a movie score piece from Avatar. There were things I wanted to add, but couldn’t do on my own, so I reached out to John and he was more than happy to join in. We changed the game with that one!!
As a finishing touch tell us what “Success” means to you.
Success to me is accomplishing your goals and dreams while still being who you are, and inspiring others in the process, and being an example to an up and coming generation of how to effectively use your God given gift to its fullest potential.

“Fame in my own words is recognition from your peers
and the world for something that you’ve done.”

From L to R:
Being a super tourist...
Us after the 2nd Madison Square Garden show....too dope! -NY Madison Square Garden Dec 15, 2010

And I say “something” because people also become famous for doing the stupidest things ever in life. In my own regards, its respect and appreciation from my peers for my playing and musicianship. It’s definitely possible to be successful without being famous. There’s plenty of people in the world that have been successful and have gotten little, to NO recognition at all for it. And to most, I would assume that they’re ok with that. Fame isn’t important to me at all really. My goal was to be a professional drummer. Sure I greatly appreciate the recognition, especially from fellow musicians. That’s one of the greatest feelings in the world to me. But I never make it a point to think of being famous. I have a job to do. I’ll play my part in the background and that’ll be all for me.

Famous!!

With that frame of mind you will never be disappointing since “fame” is not your goal-set. But there’s definitely more to your abilities than just back-up so surely there’s going to be many more doors to open and more avenues to explore. This is just the beginning for you for sure. Your time has been absolutely valuable and enlightening Brook. Share with everyone the best way to keep up with the Latest and Greatest.

Twitter: b_alexander89 and Instagram: brookalexander24

Much Love & Thanks so much for spending time with me and my viewers!

To catch more from this flaming drummer on the rise keep in touch on his social networks and look out for performances!

Bringing The Tyler Effect With Melodic & Hypnotic Cristian Tyler

2013-07-02T20:01:00.000-04:00

Whuddup Kool World!

This is your girl

Serenada'sPen

reppin' from the One and Only ATLANTA
Back at it again bringing you surprise discoveries from around the Globe!
There's so much happening on the music scene these days...
So Much Diversity and Experimentation with genres old & new delivering a new sound
for Today's generation to love and be inspired by.
Our next phenomenal Artist
Cristian Tyler
falls nothing short of memorable
with her undulating wave-like melodies, atmospheric transcendence, and hypnotic vocals
that can only intrance and leave you in a cloudy mind pool and complete daze.

This low-key force fire is not new to the game once you find out, lending her distinctive sound on tracks for pal music-producer Tony Sway of Swaylude, and unbeknownst to many

discovered firsthand by a group member of one of the reigning R&B Groups of all time who have pinned Top R&B Soulful hits:
"Tell Me", "In My Bed", "Never Make A Promise", & Beauty.
From her 2011 released LP Control Freak, newly released mixtape

that will take your mind to a much softer place,

with new material on the way for 2013,

our time together will have you wondering, "Why haven't I heard about her?!?"
And once you do you will want to hear more!

Hi Cristian It’s a pleasure to be acquainted with you! How are you luv?

I am doing well and I’m excited to finally do this interview with you!

This is a fine treat to meet a singer through one of my previous guests, Tony Sway. It’s even more fascinating how your vocals are. Very dreamy, soothing, and indulgent yet sweet with a somewhat raspy or mellow seductiveness. I can see why Mr. Sway is drawn to your sound, since his tend to dwell in the same landscape or ear-scape ;) I'm usually asking first thing about an Artist's name because it can be very distinctive and stand out before knowing anything else about the person. So I'll ask you first, is Cristian Tyler your Artist name and/or your Real name?

Cristian Tyler is my stage name that was chosen by a poll I conducted. Lol I know that sounds crazy but there is a short story I will tell behind that. I was formally known by another stage name “Neiko” for quite some time and once the singing group I was a part of disbanded, I underwent a rebirth and decided to change my name; you know, to leave all the past stuff in the past. I threw a few names out there and that one was the biggest hit. My first name is Curisa, so I already had the nickname “Cris”. Extending it to Cristian just came naturally I guess.

Curisa is a fly name! It reminds me of a show I used to watch as a kid called, Clarissa Explains It All with Melissa Joan Heart playing Clarissa Darling. All my #Retro90'sNickelodeon peeps know exactly what I'm talking about! Neiko is an interesting selection in names, almost like a male alter ego in some ways. At the moment I'm thinking of a singer's name, Nikko Smith, Season 4 ninth place finalist on American Idol.

The formation of a nickname being ' Cris ' to Cristian is fascinating. It really gives people an idea of how an Artist name can form from piecing different parts together to create something brand new.

Originally from Jacksonville, FL Curisa "Cristian Tyler" found her voice in Baltimore, MD

Where are you originally from?

I was born in Jacksonville, FL. I’m a southern girl. I moved to Baltimore, MD at the age of 6 and pretty much lived my whole entire life there.

Do you still reside there?

Well, I’m actually in the process of relocating to California in the spring of 2013.
Oooh exciting! California, land of the Stars. Wish you luck on the transition.

Not your your typical songstress deriving from a musical family. CT found her calling singing in church.

It is very common to come from a household filled with music or have family members who sing, rap, or create music. Do you come from musical beginnings?

Absolutely not lol. Very few of my family members had any significant talent growing up. I used to sing around the house as a kid and my mom constantly told me I could not sing lol. It wasn’t until she heard me sing in church as I got older where she realized her kid actually had some talent.

I'm sure you can understand my utter shock at "absolutely not"! The way your music flows in this fluid and mesmerizing manner, it feels like so natural as if you were born to do it. Your story sounds like Rihanna's when she mentioned singing all the time and her neighbors screaming at her for singing so loud in the shower because of the way houses were so close to one another. Singing is much like walking, talking, eating, sleeping, from learning about your start in it. The church setting can bring that SOUL out! lol.

With Commission being one of her musical influences she was inspired
to develop her own gospel group, God's Great Voices.

If it didn't come from your
upbringing, how did you encounter music firsthand?

Well I grew up in the Apostolic faith, so it was hard to listen to secular music growing up. I found myself connecting with gospel groups that had an R&B flare such as Commissioned and Take 6. I use to stay up late at night studying harmonies, but never quite learned how to put them together at the time.
To have that connection had to be the greatest thing in the world to you. It kept your family happy with the pious music while you explored other styles, such as R&B. Plus it's just a good mix - Gospel and R&B!

Does your family support your vocal aspirations or want you to pursue another path?

My family has always been some of my biggest supporters. My mom is my hardest critic though. She’s not afraid to tell me what she doesn’t like, but lately she has been blown away by my arranging abilities and knowing how far I have come.

What was the first song you ever heard that made a lasting impression on you?

Hmmmm, that’s a great question. I would have to say Commissioned’s rendition of the Phil Collins hit “Another Day In Paradise”.
That song gave me chills.

"Very few of my family members had any significant talent growing up. I used to sing around the house as a kid"

Take us back to the first time you ever performed or sang in front of someone whether it was 1, 2, 3 or your family, friends, even stuffed animals lol. What song did you sing and what did it feel like?
Well I can’t remember what that first song was called that I sung in church, but that was my first time singing in front of an audience. I remember feeling nervous but safe because I had my group members up there with me. I had formed a gospel group called “God’s Great Voices”.

How did you put yourself out there vocally for people to take notice?

After I decided to sing secular music, I thought the best way to get out there would be to form another singing group and try to make some noise. Once I did that, we became pretty popular locally.

This is all about you Ms. Tyler and with that being said it would be an absolute diss not to ask about what you were a part of before now. Enlighten our readers about the group you were a part of and who the leading man behind it is.

I was a part of a 4 member female group called Audassy. We had a few members come and go, but I was the founding member and the second member I recruited stayed with me until the very end.

Audassy sharing a moment with Allen Payne

We settled with the final 4 members by the year 2000 and made a big industry run. We became popular around Baltimore, MD and eventually caught the attention of Jazz (member of the Baltimore native group Dru Hill).

Cristian Taylor & T-Low from R&B group Next

Audassy and Actress Monica Calhoun

As a newly formed group Audassy encountered various celebs and high profilers at Hollywood's hot surroundings.

He took us under his camp and transformed our sound. He literally had us sounding like a female version of them lol. I loved it, and during that time we traveled quite a bit, recorded quite a bit, and mingled with a lot of celebrities, and eventually landed a record deal on the table. We even became requested by Lil Kim herself to open up for her in Pennsylvania, as well as opening up for Case.

DRU HILL member Larry "Jazz" Anthony

During that time I didn’t have a clue of how to arrange so I was known just as the writer of the group. I wrote 95% of our material that we recorded. I always wanted to get into vocal producing but couldn’t quite figure out how to do it at the time. I then decided to study Jazz’s techniques and learn the Dru Hill / Jodeci way of creating harmonies. Unfortunately, we could not sustain life as semi-professional recording artists and therefore we began to fall apart due to the pressures that came along with it. We broke up in 2001 and everyone pursued other musical ventures.

Very tough. It's brave of you to share this because with what many of us see on tv we believe it's 100% attainable in a flash and it's not so. I may not be in that world but it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see how many people have gone in and came out with less than what they started with. It's a battle to keep the dream alive, much more than just singing just like you can attest to. That "life" Holly-weird as some might say is "smoke and mirrors" I've been told and once many of us realize it is the world you're going into the easier it's going to be to know what's coming. If you go in with your eyes wide open and not a jaded, naive mind-set. It's a d*mn shame though because it's unfair. Life is unfair though, right? But hopefully you all left with a better sense of self and more wiser than you were when you started. It's a blow to the ego for sure but it's not the end as you're proving. If the passion is strong and it's your destiny then you're going to do what you love regardless of who rejects you and how many doors close. It's only a matter of time before the grand debut! What I always remember when a situation doesn't go to plan is to pull out what I gained from it. What did I leave away with that I can use. Sometimes it's hard to see it but eventually it comes to light. It helps.

Dru Hill

Are you a songwriter and what topics or subjects do you usually cover in your songs?

Yes! I am a songwriter first and foremost.

I wrote my entire first album which debuted on iTunes in 2011 titled “Control Freak”. I also wrote the entire mixtape. i.e. Download "Control" from her album!

“The Tyler Effect” with the exception of 2 songs I co-wrote and the remake of “Human” by The Human League. I try to cover an array of subject titles. Things I’ve experienced personally and things I’ve seen. I use to write male bashing songs a lot when I first started out but quickly found a happier avenue to explore lol.

Are you a solo performer with a band or do you consider yourself part of a group?

I am a solo artist and have been for quite some time now.

Brandy

Without a doubt so many artists come to mind from listening to your material: Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton, Brandy, Ciara, Slim from 112, harmony a lil similar to New Edition in certain ways. What Artists have listeners connected you to? (claimed you resemble)

I’ve heard Brandy and Aaliyah so many times I can’t even count. In the beginning before I enhanced my

Aaliyah

arranging abilities I was compared to Aaliyah more because of my soft tone. Now more than ever I get Brandy because of my harmonies and melodies.

Here is the list of Artists I've heard sampled in both of your mix tapes: Jhene Aiko, Keith Sweat, Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton, Brandy, & Chante Moore. Which Artists are you inspired by: Past or Present?

Tank, Frank Ocean, R. Kelly, Babyface, and Brandy hands down!! Everyone who knows me personally knows that I’m slightly obsessed with her lol. I study her like a student study’s a book. I think you can hear her influence the most in my music. She is a vocal genius and she’s very underrated. If you listen closely as well you can hear my Dru Hill influences as well with some of my arrangements.

Tony Sway of Swaylude
LISTEN "The Way 2 Love" instrumental
Featuring Cristian Tyler

Have you sung backup for any Artists (background vocals) or featured on albums?

I have sung background vocals on quite a few local artists and up and coming artist's projects and projects put out by Tony Sway and a few artists that he has put me on with.

This is your chance to ultimately use your imagination laced with your passion. What is your “dream” performance: Including: staging, production, location, costumes, songs, and featuring any music artist or musician in the whole world

I would be in the Madison Square Garden performing with Brandy. I would perform most of my mixtape and Control Freak album songs and wear the most outrageous outfits lol. I am a super liberal person so the sky is the limit.

Trey Songz

If there’s any song I love more in the world by Trey Songz it’s, “Need a Girl”. I swear to you I get so excited every time I hear that song. Could hardly contain myself when I heard your rendition with, “One For Me”. You’re officially one of my girls now lol. Tell me, what is it about this song that you wanted to re-make it? Are you a fan of Trey Songz?

Wow wow wow, I had no idea you heard some of my earlier work on that first mixtape! That’s awesome, but I can barely listen to that stuff now because I still didn’t know how to arrange at the time, I was just winging it lol. But to answer your question, I wouldn’t say I’m a huge fan of his, I just really loved that song and felt inspired to use it.

Upload your music for free at ReverbNation.com

Favoring singer Brandy's diverse melodies & vocals
Cristian made it her personal study and taylored her own
vocal arranging to define her own unique sound.

Which Artists would you love to do a duet or collab with?

OMG I feel like a creeper because all of my answers will echo Brandy lol. She is first and foremost on my list of people to work with in the near future. Other than that, I would love to work with Frank Ocean and Tank.

What types of audience (young, old, male, female, mixed race, blacks, homosexual) follow you mostly and come to your shows?

I would say a healthy mixture of all. I was surprise to see that I had a pretty decent following of older supporters. That is a blessing and I love everyone who supports my cause. I definitely have a big homosexual following because of my sexual orientation.

Audassy posing for a photo-shoot for what seemed to be a promise in the sun of star-filled dreams

Share with us one of the most thrilling or wild experiences behind the scenes: on the road touring, meet and greet, autograph signing, even after a concert or performance ;)

Lol ok two things I will share that comes to mind right off hand. A behind the scenes thing that goes on behind all of my shows be it solo or when I was in my singing group is my stage fright. It didn’t matter how many times I performed the same songs, I would still be terrified once I arrived at the venue. I would literally throw up before each show lol. Gross I know, but so true. It became a ritual and a sign of good luck for us. The one time I did not puke was the only show that wasn’t our best. As far as touring, those were the best times. My most memorable experience was performing at an outside venue in PA with the group. After the performance, we had to run back to our truck because the fans in the audience started chasing us for autographs! Our bodyguards had to pick some of us up and run lol. We performed a lot in PA as well as Baltimore so we were a household name there.


Audassy embodied the image of many up and coming groups of the time. Fresh faced and ready for a promising journey not knowing of the short-lived results that lie ahead.

I'm thinking about what can be a fear for a music Artist. If I was a music Artist lol, I would be afraid of forgetting my lyrics or messing up my dance moves during a performance for 1 hr. long concert. As an Artist what is one of your fears?

From L to R Four member girl group Audassy
Adolphia, Sparkles, Neiko "Cristian Tyler", & Starr

Well besides the natural stage fright, it was just the “not knowing”. Not knowing how the crowd would perceive us or me, not knowing if they would like our/my songs. Those types of fears never go away when you’re a local artist.
Definitely! But the good part is the more you perform the more confident and fluid it becomes. I don't anyone every gets over state fright or anxiety but maybe that's a good thing. Usually the nerves give amo to create the best work and when we think it looks less than what we expect it actually becomes more than we thought. The opposite seems to always win in the end.

Okay let this be the first place that you have the opportunity to do this Cristian ;) I give all my musical guests the spotlight to give their own uNiqUe name for their own music. There's Rock, Pop, Country, R&B, so forth-just categories. For example Mila Falls calls her music Space Pop What do you call yours and what name can you see yourself calling your followers?

Great question! I actually call my music “The Tyler Effect”. That’s where the idea of the mixtape title came from. I am very close with a popular producer in Baltimore and he told me that my arranging abilities are unheard of these days, so I said jokingly “yeah that’s the Tyler effect”. We looked at each other and realized I was on to something. I often do renditions of industry artist songs with me doing backgrounds on them. I call it being “Tyler Effected” lol. I did one for Drake’s Trust Issues and Beyonce’s I Miss U. I am releasing a new one soon as well with a special artist. I dove into the alternative world with the choice of this song so I’m excited about that. My followers would be called “Team Tyler”.

I'm sure you're expecting to show growth with every project you put out to your fans and listeners. You want to retain your own originality but give a little more each time- pushing yourself and giving everyone something new, another part of who you are :) Whereas some may say there's improvement with your second mix tape, THE TYLER EFFECT, I feel there's a step up with it but it still has the same overall strength as your first self-titled project. I believe as an Artist you're seeing what you can do with your voice. It's noticeable-the experimentation. That's lovable and in my opinion will keep you around much longer than some of these cats out here trying to make a quick rise to fame. Lacking the staying-power. What was your objective or what you wanted to achieve with THE TYLER EFFECT that is different than your other work?

Thanks for asking this! I wanted to step my arranging up to the next level. Pushing sounds that I may have never been comfortable with before. I also think that I grew stronger vocally as far as my leads, so I wanted to displayed that as well. I basically wanted to solidify my place as a solid vocal arranger to be contended with.

You can explain it better than I can since I'm just a listener and commentator How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard it before?

I would describe it as a mental escape.
I don’t have a powerhouse voice so if you’re looking for that Beyonce or Jennifer Hudson jolt then I wouldn’t be your first choice lol. I tend to slide in on those rough days where you just want to lay in bed all day or zone out in the car. My harmonies take the mind to another place I believe. I like to give my supporters those mental vacations every now and then.

What setbacks do you experience in trying to reach your goals?

The biggest set back is my sexuality. I often struggled with how to look and who to be as an artist because once the camera’s were off, Cris was somebody totally different. Most of it are internal issues that I deal with, not anything anyone has said about me in the media. I think once I figure out my complete comfort level with my approach to music and marrying that with my personal life I will be able to achieve everything my heart desires.

I've heard about music Artists showing love to each other since they're all trying to accomplish the same thing, but in the midst of it all we, the public, hear about spats or cats "beefin" over silly mess. Have you experienced animosity from your fellow Artists or contemporaries?

Not ever since I went solo. I have nothing but respect for all the other local female artists and they have the same for me. However, when I was in my group, we often found our way in the mouths of other female groups lol. Hey it comes with the territory.

In your own words how do you define "success"?

Simple: Doing what you sat out to achieve and being completely happy during that process.

Is there a difference between you, the Artist, and you apart from performing?

Yes a big difference. In my personal life I am very outgoing and a little bit flashy. When I’m “Cristian Tyler” I am the opposite. I am very quiet, humble, and hate the spotlight lol.

Limiting you to just singing would keep readers from really seeing the full scope of your talents and abilities. Did you play any instruments growing up?

Yep, I was a beast on the alto and saprano saxophone, and I was pretty darn good at playing the drums. I played the sax in the concert band in middle school and I played the drums and soprano sax for the jazz band. The boys hated me because a girl upstaged them all lol.

Which part of the process do you get a rise or enjoy the most: Writing, Singing in the studio, forming the song with the music, or performing live? (you can say all, whatever you want to say!)

My most favorite thing is the recording process. I keep people in awe because of my technique. I’m just like Jay-Z. I never write anything down. I just go in and freestyle all of the lyrics and arrangements as I go along. I never cease to amaze myself with the finished product.

Jay-Z

Don't hate me girl but I must play Devil's Advocate for a moment for the naysayers... yea you sound good. Contemporary R&B at its best, but I've heard it before. How are you any different from Artists who are acclaimed Divas and Iconic like Toni Braxton or Janet Jackson? How do you stack up to these greats and expect to be just as big as them?

I think that I can provide sustainability because I am well rounded. I won’t sing forever and I definitely know at some point I will not release projects anymore. Therefore, I am putting myself in a position to stay relevant through other ventures such as my writing and possibly creating new sounds for future new comers. I think I’m driving in a lane that was tailored just for me. I don’t try to do anything else that’s unlike me just to keep up with other artists.

With doors that close in your face, promises that fall short, and those like above who try their hardest to make you doubt your purpose, what is your driving force to continue performing?

Simply my gift. God gave it to me for a reason, so who am I to spit back in his face and say I don’t want to use it or keep going.

I'm not sure if you watch any of these shows: America's Got Talent, Dancing With The Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, America's Next Best Dance Crew, X-Factor, or The Voice, but if you do, what are your thoughts on individuals seeking their success through a "star search" platform rather than spending their time developing a following on their own and putting work out consecutively?

While I don’t agree with the tactics behind those shows, I won’t knock them. They are just not my thing personally. I believe in the old fashioned ways of getting discovered. Good old fashion beating down doors and sending out projects!

What have you achieved so far in your journey?

I’ve achieved musical growth and have developed the respect of other artists. I have also met some inspiring people along the way.

Now that we covered the serious stuff, let's chat it up like girlfriends ;)

How do you see yourself? Are you a girly girl or tomboy?

Tomboy all the way! I only dress up for work and when I use to do photoshoots. I’m in the process of changing my image now and being more comfortable with the real me. People can either take it or leave it.

What are you favorite stores or locations to clothes shop or just browse?

I love all kinds of stores. I mainly shop online to find different things so it’s hard to narrow it down to just one or two places.

What designers or brands inspire your wardrobe pieces? Or do you like anything that looks good on your body?

Anything that doesn’t make me look to fake I’ll deal with lol.

Actress Nia Long

Tell me who's your celeb or music Artist crush? Do they know you're digging them?

Lol well I don’t have a music crush. I am in love with Nia Long and Ray Rice (the football player) lol.

Ray Rice Running Back for Baltimore Ravens

When you're not busy writing your music, producing your tracks, networking and forming business relationships, and etc. what other hobbies do you have?

I am a family oriented person so I spend a lot of time with my family and close friends. If I’m not doing that I’m probably shopping.

"I often struggled with how to look and who to be as an artist because once the camera’s were off,
Cris was somebody totally different"

There's no way I can listen to your music and look at your Artist's pics without noticing your tiny figure! I'm a shorty. How tall are you in person?

Lol I am 5’4 and barely 110 pounds. I actually hate that I’m so small but hey what woman is completely comfortable with her body lol?

What’s your favorite food? And to be even more nosey, what's your favorite "fast" food?

I could eat pizza everyday all day for the rest of my life and be satisfied lol.

What’s your favorite color?

Turquoise and pink.

Jodie Foster

Do you have a favorite actor or actress? If so, what's your favorite movie with him or her in it?
Anything Nia Long is in I will watch lol. I also love anything Jodie Foster is in, she's
a phenomenal actress.

Same here! I love Nia Long and for some reason I'm intrigued to watch any film she's in. It's her personality and probably her looks because I find her beautiful.

Would love for her to tackle more challenging roles though and not typecast for redundant roles in "black films." I wish the same for most black actors and actresses. I yearn for something totally different and completely unexpected to blow my mind away. I remember when Jodie Foster was in the movie, Nell, remember that one? At the time it was too provocative for me to watch because I was too young and she was nude a lot in the movie for her character's way of living but now I can appreciate it for what the story was about. She was great. And who can forget Silence of the Lambs? It will always be iconic.

Sarah McLaughlin

What music do you listen to? Is it different or similar to the music you create?

I actually listen to a lot of alternative music. I love love love Savage Garden, Sarah McLaughlin, The Fray, and Katy Perry.

What characteristics or values do you seek out in a potential partner?

Over the years what I look for has changed the older I’ve gotten. I can honestly say one of the top things on my list is kindness. I’ve met so many malicious people lately it has made me value a genuinely kindhearted person. I also look for brains to go along with beauty. I am into education so ideally I like someone who’s into it as well. I have a BS in psychology and I’m currently working on a masters in public relations. The other things are pretty much generic, honesty, family oriented, motivated and so on.

And while we’re on the subject...uh hem ;) do you have a particular special someone in your possession at the present moment?

Lol nope! Unfortunately I’m as single as a one dollar bill

Name something you have a weakness for no matter how hard you try to avoid it. What is your vice or temptation?

Shopping and a cute face. Sometimes I will see all the signs that the person is no good for me but a cute face gets me all the time lol. I also have a bad shopping habit I’m trying to get under control.

One of the perks of being in a group or being a solo artist on demand is traveling across the US and if your cards are played right, around the world too! I know you've travelled around the globe so let us in on the places you've graced with your presence. Let's make it official right here!

California, New York, New Jersey, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Georgia just to name a few.

Audassy with Jamie Foxx

You gotta fill us in on what it's like to travel and the places you've stayed. JET-Life is all we hear about and see in videos especially with rap Artists. And which do you prefer: Planes, Trains, or Automobiles and which did you dislike if there is one?

I prefer to fly. I hate long car rides. I would say Cali was the best experience for me. That was during the time where my group was on the verge of doing great things. My heart never left there.

I’m sure no one has randomly asked you this, but if you have any hidden talents can you share any that you may have with us?

Hmmmm, nothing fancy I guess lol. I have a great memory. I can see a phone number, name, car, face once and tell you what it was days, weeks, months later or from a far.

For anyone who has never heard of you what can you tell them about yourself?

I would tell them to just listen to my music. It says a lot about me and what I’m all about. I would tell them that I’m just pure in regards to music. No gimmicks, no games, just MUSIC.

The Fray

A muse is considerably the goddess or the power regarded as inspiring a poet, artist, and thinker. Do you have a particular routine you follow to amp up your creativity or does it come to you when you least expect it?

It usually comes to me when I least expect it. Just last night I was eating waffles then it hit me. I instantly got inspired to record the song that’s releasing next lol.

First impressions are not everything all the time. Sometimes we're perceived in a light that isn't correct, and it can be unfortunate. What can be a misconception about you that someone you meet may misunderstand until they get to know you better?

Sometimes people have gotten the impression that I’m selfish, but once they really get to know me they quickly change that idea.

As women there are plenty of things we cannot go through a day without: Lip wear, shades, flat iron, moisturizer, etc. It's just how we are! lol 3 things can you not start your day without?

Lip balm, my phone and lotion

We grow up watching cartoons like X-Men, Superman, and read books like Animorphs, about kids transforming into creatures, that have evolved into an adult phenomenon like Twilight. If you could have any super power which one would you like to possess and why?

Hahaha, probably the ability to make any person I want desire me lol. If I want someone I usually can get them 8 times out of 10. I want to make that 10 times out of 10 lol.

Savage Garden

From your viewpoint what is it about the music industry many of us on the "outside" do not understand?

Uh HARMONIES! For goodness sake that is a sacred gift and ability to be able to arrange and I think the average person doesn’t appreciate it. That’s why I love Brandy. She takes the time to perfect her background vocals, which is what I pay attention to the most. I usually don’t connect with lead vocals because anybody can belt out a great verse. The key is how can this artist put the entire song together as a whole.

How will you inspire and change how music is interpreted and seen for the next generation?

I have to just continue to do the work God has called me to do. Through my music I hope to inspire as many people as I can along the way.

Katy Perry

If you can give aspiring music artists any advice or important tips to get them through the door and bypass the stress what can you tell them?

Be yourself. Sometimes you are asked to conform to a certain style whether it is musically or physically. You can bend a little to get to where you need to be but don’t break yourself to get there. I learned that the hard way and now it seems as if I have to start over trying to re-invent myself.

If you had the opportunity to meet our current President of the United States, Barack Obama, what would you do?
I would watch football with him because he is a Steelers fan I believe and I am a Ravens fan.
That's like mixing oil and water lol. I'm sure we would have a great time!

Name the first thing at the top of your bucket list.

Well the first thing was to meet my idol Brandy and I finally achieved that this past year on my birthday! She came to DC for a show and I got the opportunity to meet her and take a picture with her. I died for like 5 seconds lol.

What saying or mantra touches you and keeps you focused when everything is upside down around you?

“You can’t steal my joy because you didn’t give it to me”

Growing up I've been told it's important to have options. Not to be discouraging or to see the half-glass empty but to be practical because life can change at any given moment. If an instance came about that prevented you from being able to sing and ended that prospect of a life-long career, what other direction would you go into that you will be happy with?

That’s the very reason why I’m so big on education. My degrees are my back up plan for sure.

If you can give credit to anyone or anything, tell us who or what deserves it for believing in you and encouraging your dreams?

There are quite a few people I could give credit to. I would have to say my mentor Kevin Kidd has been the biggest influence in my life. He took me under his wing as a writer and developed me. He pushed me to record my first mixtape and always believed in me and the potential I had to arrange vocals. He would bring in a vocal arranger to work with me and see my frustrations, but he never stopped believing in me. Even at times when I didn’t believe in myself he did.

We’re only here on this earth for a short amount of time. It’s important to accomplish our goals and pursue our dreams, no matter what stands in our way.

What legacy do you want to leave behind when the final chapter of your life reaches its final page?

I hopefully want to be known as one of the greatest vocal producers and writers of all time.

Complete this statement: In 2013 my number one goal is to ___. Move to California and become successful.

If anyone wanted you to sing for them, whether it's one person, a group, or a show what is the protocol to making it happen?

Usually my email cristiantylermusic@gmail.com or facebook. I haven’t done shows a lot because I’m doing a lot of writing and hook singing write now. That’s my focus. At this point I release music just to stay relevant. My passion is creating music for other people right now.

How can your fans and newbies learning about you for the first time keep up with the Latest & Greatest?

Well I’m horrible with twitter so I can say my facebook page right now until my website is up and running. Youtube is a great way as well. My channel is youtube.com/cristiantyler

This has been Fantastic Cristian! Thank you so much for sharing your story and your time with us. It is so exciting to meet someone as established at you and we hope to see a whole lot more from you. You’re going to blow up, believe that! Much Love.

Thx so much for the vote of confidence!

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Changing The World of Gospel With A Modern Spin As We Hang Out With Terry TJ McCarter Jr.

2013-06-12T20:53:00.000-04:00

Welcome Kool World to the latest Artistic acts in and around the world sharing what makes them the who’s who in their respected discipline With the art they love the most! We have returned with another musical edition in the Rising Star Chronicles with a singer, song-writer, and vocal producer influenced by The Gospel, and other quite popular genres: Alternative, Country, and R&B reigning from the state of Alabama in the US!

TJ McCarter, also known as Terry McCarter Jr. founder of his own production team GroundXero shares his love of Christian music, how it is possible to be a man of God singing the Lord’s praises, with a modern R&B flavor I might add ;) while still being very much human in every way possible, hailing from the same town as American Idol Season 2 Winner Ruben Studdard, an opening act for renowned Gospel Artist Marvin Sapp, and the challenges facing today’s mainstream audience connecting with a Divine musical style that has been around and will continue to be around way after the Nicki Minajs, Chris Browns, Rihannas, Taylor Swifts, Beyonces, and Jay-Z’s are long gone & mainstream has new reigning POP-ular kings and queens.

Hi Terry! I'm glad to meet you & make your acquaintance as my first Gospel singer :) Thank you for sharing your time. I'm happy to engage with an Artist of your genre because not only are you the first one I'm talking with but in times like these we're living in we may need more of it!

How did Gospel music become your "calling" or story to tell in your life?

First off it’s an honor to talk to you Serenada, Thanks for having me! I come from a musical background and Church is definitely the foundation of my family. My Dad, Terry McCarter Sr. was/is a Gospel singer. I remember as a child my Dad always on the road traveling and singing and once me and my younger brother Jeremy McCarter became teenagers we began traveling with him singing in churches across the country.

A traveling caravan of Gospel, love it! You were already learning the ropes of a self-made Artist, touring without the aid of a label, just you and your family. A star is born.

Give us an a/s/l? "meaning" age/sex/location for the Classic AOL chat roomers or just a biographical starting point ;)
I was born in Alabaster, Alabama in August 10th 1983.
Currently I reside in Birmingham, Alabama.

I'm afraid there's a stigma associated with non-secular or spiritual music that doesn't connect much with today's generation. To be honest even though I've always believed in God and allowed myself to be closer to Him, just like people who don't want to hear someone preaching verses from the Bible and blaring Christian music, I found myself bypassing or looking past these particular things. I've felt torn between because it's challenging to feel both ways, if you can understand my point. Why do you think it's a challenge to embrace "The Word" for today's World?

It's definitely a challenge, I mean when you live in a world like we live in where there are so many different influences whether it’s TV, Music, radio, music videos, these things are shaping the minds of our generation because it’s all entertaining and people feel like they can relate. "The word" is the complete opposite it’s not entertaining so it becomes harder to embrace but in reality "The Word" is life changing but there must be a hunger there to get it. As a singer/songwriter I want to be relatable and also give a word all in one.

I see your point of view and it makes sense! With you addressing “The Word” in contrast to “entertainment” would you say it’s also the feeling of dread when a child has done something wrong and the parent tells them, “Let’s talk about why you did it…or let’s talk about how what you did was wrong…” That sort of lecturing quality no one wants to sit and listen to. It’s pretty much point blank stating the “right” or best standard of living, like a guide book. Even though it’s for the positive outcome it is also seen as a “limiting, restrictive, rule book that can be taken out of context to bear down on its subjects instead of uplift and empower. It’s all about viewpoint and interpretation from the readers.

When you mention there "must be a hunger there to get it" can you give more of your viewpoint on that?
You definitely have your work cut out for you! Not to be cynical whatsoever because I respect those who face the challenges of life head-on, eyes wide open, with a passion, drive, sincerity, authenticity, and so forth.

For me I just try to stay true to the message. I never write music that isn't real in my life. I write everything from my personal experiences to the experience of others that are close to me but only to encourage someone that if God did this for me he can do the same for you. I never really focus on what’s going on around me musically I just try and focus on the task God has set before me. But I must say musically I’m a fan of almost everyone it’s just the passion I have for it.

I've always felt there must be a struggle of interest when someone is basically an ambassador of Christ, on the forefront to make a statement in the Lord's name, while still being very much human and dealing with all those emotions. Do you ever feel torn or conflicted as a man with sexual needs and desires and upholding your position with this style of music?

Before I’m a singer/songwriter, musician, or even a Christian I’m a man first, I’m human so to say I haven't felt any emotion is insane. I'm not exempt because I write Gospel music but I think that’s why so many people can identify with my music because for an example I'm not afraid to write about being a man of God facing temptation or how it’s not so easy to just turn the other cheek. I always want to express realness in my music so not only does it sound good to the ear but people can truly understand the message.
When the decision was made to ask this question there was a definite expectation for your answer. It is insane as you state to not feel sexual emotions. You’re a man first and everything else comes after. Other Christian or Gospel Artists out here are faced with the same struggle or conflict at hand because being taken seriously is at stake. You know exactly what your purpose is and you’re going to make sure you accomplish it no matter what which helps you to continue without worry. Even outside of music, there’s a struggle with one’s faith and spreading the Gospel because for some reason as people we think that a person who is a messenger of God can’t possibly have sexual thoughts, desires, lust, or “freaky thoughts” or feelings, let alone act them out, because it’s “sinful” or far left from what “The Word” is about. I guess it’s the perception that a person who is associated with the Divine is “untouched” or in a different category from humanity. But it’s respectfully a way of life! It’s how you live and what you do in the name of the Lord. As far as I’m concerned I haven’t met a single person who is in the Lord’s service say anything in opposition to sex, except don’t have multiple partners. Everything else is A-okay ;) lol. But there’s still a disconnect with the youth of today connecting with music of this kind because of the desensitization influence of mainstream subject matter. I can’t speak of the years before I was born in ’84 but music with an allure of danger, the forbidden, and edginess is what draws many of us in because it is “freeing and enlivening”. The same can be obtained from Divine music as well, but reaching the audience is the challenge.

I'm curious to ask if at some point did you sing or write songs of the mainstream kind that is popular today, with the suggestions, the sexuality, the profanity, and the violence we listen to?

Actually I don't just write Gospel music. I write all types of music. I write R&B, Alternative, and even Country. I love music and it is an expression of life in different rhythms’ and styles. I stay away from any profanity and violence in music as I feel it’s not necessary in my music but I love to write about "Love" in any genre.
Ooh okay! You know this changes the whole flow of our convo right? Haha, kidding.

Not too much though, it actually enhances everything! At least it portrays you in a very honest and human light! Now this is dope what you’ve shared: Alternative, Country, and R&B.

Tell me how these three genres speak to you the most in expressing yourself musically?

I love all genres of music, Gospel is by far my favorite but R&B, Country, and Alternative moves me as well. Country music tells a story, every single time, Alternative I love because of the musicianship, R&B because of the soul it brings, Each genre is completely different from the next but as a singer/songwriter and producer I love to put a Groundxero stamp on each.

Are you Independent, Unsigned, or Signed to a label or your own? And are you solo or work with others?

Name them too if there are any.
I'm an independent contemporary Gospel artist, but I do have my own Production team known as GroundXero Entertainment. My team consists of my younger brother, Jeremy McCarter who is also a singer/songwriter and producer and Calvin McHoward who is also a songwriter, producer and independent hip-hop artist.

How did “GroundXero” become the official name of your production team and how long has your team been in operation?

Groundxero Came into effect in 2011. We were in the studio working on an R&B record called "Hurricane" and we use the word ground zero during the bridge of the song and for some reason it just stuck out to me so I mention to the guys about making that our official production team name and they like it. Of course my brother thought to change the Z to an X, he's the more creative of us 3. Lol

I'm listening to a new release titled, "Call Him Up" Operator! Operator! (That’s just me singing! lol) with first time singer Ant Harris and it really is good! And if you don't mind me mentioning it was rather sexy in production. But not in the way that is expected, it's just an interesting modern concept towards Gospel.

Two artists came to mind, Marques Houston and Omarion.

What secular and non-secular music Artists have listeners pinned your sound to?

Everybody!!! I think it’s a good thing because I listen to everybody and musically I'm influenced by everyone in some type of way but I'm not surprised because I get that a lot. People always tell me that my gospel music has an R&B sound. To me that’s just fine as long as you get the message in the record.

Any particular names?

I get "Mitchell Jones" a lot. He was one of the Original members of the Contemporary Gospel group Commissioned. I also get R&B singer "Donell Jones". I’m a Huge fan of both Guys so to me it’s a compliment.

And rightfully so since you’ve given acknowledgment to R&B as one of your favs! It’s actually a great way to connect with today’s youth musically and embrace R&B fans. I love how now it is noticeable in music how Artists are experimenting with music from their parent’s time and what was popular for them growing up. The combination is creating a brand new sound for future generations to take from this generation.

I only know a few Artists that are "mainstream" Gospel Artists that stand out in my mind, Mary Mary, Ruben Studdard, Deitrick Haddon, and Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin and his gospel choirs. Have you met any of them or other popular Artists in person? If so how did you meet them if it was a surprising or unexpected encounter?

It’s funny because Ruben Studdard and I are from the same area and state, Alabama but surprisingly we have never met and what’s even funnier is we work around some of the same producers and musicians often. I have never met any of the other artists you mentioned but I'm a huge fan of each and every one of them. I have had the pleasure of spending some time with Pastor John P. Kee who is in my opinion the Godfather of Gospel Music; out in Durham, North Carolina He gave me great insight and direction for my career. I was also given the pleasure to open up for Marvin Sapp and I had the pleasure of meeting Zacardi Cortez.

Oooh that’s nice! I almost forgot, how can I ever forget Marvin Sapp! He is one major name no one should ever look past.

Has more doors opened up for you with your interaction with these specific Artists?

Yes it has. each opportunity has open the door for the next. alongside my Dad and Brother we have had the opportunity to open for some great artist and made great friendships within the music industry.

In terms of longevity it's excellent to have many skills. As a singer, song-writer, and producer you are pretty much an entire team! Did you take lessons or go to school to learn what you needed or developed the skills on your own?

No! I never took any lessons; I have just spent more than half of my life in the studio and on stage. I'm also a bassist and also self taught. To me it’s just a gift of music, a God given talent and everyday I’m so grateful for that.
A bassist?!!! That’s awesome! In reference to “spending more than half” of your life, it’s a sacrifice for sure. I think about how in music an Artist can spend hours in a studio setting or alone putting together selections of their own music with high hopes of a future. It’s a choice of living and it’s a question of “Is it worth the time?” or “Am I wasting my time?” Time can’t be given back. Every second that we’re doing something in a day is the first and last of that given moment we will ever have. Everyday has to count for something and if it’s in the pursuance of a goal, can a person really regret the choice to aim for the stars? No one knows the future or outcome of their actions so I guess faith will be a major component with the hard work.

What sets your production apart from other Gospel producers or music Artists in general?
Do you have a particular sound quality or rhythm that is signature to you?
I think my sound is impacted by every artist I have listen to growing up. Not a day went by that my Dad wasn't listening to The Winans, Commissioned, Rance Allen, Rev AL Green, John P. Kee, Dawkins and Dawkins etc. I mean the list goes on and on music was all I ever knew. I have always had a contemporary sound but getting the opportunity to work with Harvey Mason Jr and Damon Thomas of the Underdogs was musically life changing. It really helped me and my team develop the sound we have now.
You know it’s wild that you mentioned Commissioned. One of my past guests Cristian Tyler has also worked with the same Gospel group with her musical beginnings before becoming the Artist she is now! And again how could I ever miss acknowledging The Winans!!?!! Majorly them too, but forgive me for not being familiar with of few names.

What is it about Harvey Mason Jr, Damon Thomas, and The Underdogs interpretation that you admire? I'll give them a shout-out!

Their work ethic is amazing! Not saying everyone doesn't work hard but I got the chance to work with them first hand and we "WORK" all day and all night every day. To me they have always been a step ahead of the rest but spending some time in L.A with those guys I truly understood why. There is a record I just co-wrote called "Teach Us Love" performed by my Brother Jeremy McCarter for his upcoming album. The words are self explanatory but the line " Lord teach us how to love is" is powerful.

Do you feel you have what it takes to merge into Mainstream music, if you wanted to make that transition, or do you feel content where you are?
It's never a question whether I feel; I have what it takes to become mainstream, I believe in hard work and I believe in time and seasons. God sets the stage for us, he equips us and then he allows us to walk out on the stage. There are so many things I want to do musically, so many lives I want to touch through music, so honestly I will probably never be content.

What do you think is missing from today's generation music. What we listen to everyday?

Music! That might sound a little strange but music is what's missing from today's version of music. Now a day’s artist can basically say anything on a record and it never has to make any sense. I think the passion for real songwriting is losing its flare.

Halllelujah! Lol, I feel that. For the longest I was feeling the exact same way but as mentioned above there’s a resurgence that is taking place with up and coming music Artists that embraces the classic, or recognizeable music of their childhoods while adding their own spin and trademark uniqueness to it. It’s quite fascinating and exciting because there are so many avenues to take with it and so many combinations because everyone has their own story to tell! And thankfully that’s what we’re learning from you right now! J

Just for the fun of it share one of the most foolish lines you've ever heard from a song (If you dare!) lol. If you're brave enough share the song's title...

Lol! Listen there are some crazy lyrics out there but I won't out anyone!!! Serenada I just can't do it!! LOL
Can’t hate me for trying! Lol. Remember there are plenty of lines out here that have been sung many times so it’s possible you would never be found out haha! Well let me turn it around a bit to suit your taste sir ;)

What song do you catch yourself humming to, thinking of the most, or wanting to sing out-loud?
"Take me to the King" by Tamla Mann. This song is embedded in my soul because this is the story for a lot of people.

What will music lovers of all genres take away from listening to your work?

A different outlook at Christ. I want people to feel like they want a more intimate relationship with Him just from listening to my records.

What albums or EP's have you released or soon will be releasing?

In mid July 2013 I'm releasing a contemporary gospel record called "Never Fail" It features myself and my brother Jeremy McCarter. We teamed up with my Fiancée, Tanya Taylor to help promote her "self worth Life changing series" to women across the country. I'm also working on my solo project "eight" set for release in early 2014.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of the music you love to make? Or if you have an unusual talent let us know how corky you really are? =P

I'm a huge boxing fan. Boxing is a very close second to my music. In my free time I study old boxing films and documentaries. It’s funny because people who know me think I could be a trainer or an advisor but to me it’s not that serious I just love the sport.

See what I mean about combinations! Lol

A Boxing Gospel singer with a penchant for R&B, Alternative, & Country Music! That’s dope ;)

Which Boxer are you impressed by the most? What knock-out technique?
Easily Floyd "Money" Mayweather jr. He's not really a knock out artist but he's been on top for a long time. 17 years and never suffered a loss is very impressive.

Taking risks in life can propel someone forward for good reasons or possibly cause problems. There are many outcomes for the steps we take. Have you taken any risks with your career or in your personal life that either helped you or hurt you in the long-run?

I can't say that I have taken much risk that has hurt in some type of way. I've made many mistakes along the way but nothing to the point of it being something I would change. Thus far things have been great, my good days as well as my bad days. They have taught me in one instance or another.

It's expected to assume with the music you make you rarely experience "bad days" or trials since it's supposed to be uplifting and foretelling of the good and better times. But you're still human and go through the same as anyone else. How do you personally manage negativity and challenges you face with the work you do and/or in your day to day life?
I simply believe in the power of Prayer. Praying has brought me through some of the darkest days in my life. I'm so grateful for my upbringing because I was taught at a very early age that God is our only source of help and until this day I still believe what I was taught. I think experiences in life whether good or bad tell a story and that’s where the music fits in for me.

Can you say that through your struggles in life it gives your music that added personal, raw edge that can propel your message even further and hopefully connect even deeper with listeners?
Absolutely! That’s part of being an artist; you get the chance to express every emotions in your music. I can definitely say that I have written music based on a true story, my story and people can relate either because they have faced a similar situation or they know someone who has.

What advice would you give an Artist who wants to go in the same musical direction?

I would tell them to work hard, stay consistent, and dedicate themselves to what God has placed in front of them. Stay true to their sound and don't be afraid to sing about what others are afraid to talk about.

I’m going to be honest, I have to remind myself all the time to hang on, don’t give up, the great things will come if you keep believing, and stay consistent as you said. It’s tougher than ever Terry with many of us trying to find our way in a changing world of morals, values, and viewpoints. Give or take it is a struggle and for the youth coming up now it will take a lot more to keep them in line with what they’re facing already. Thank You for your encouraging words! Beautiful

Are there any quotes, sayings, or mantras that have carried you through the darkest hours and keep you grounded and joyful?
"Feeding only my Faith so that all of my doubts starve to death" - Les Brown this is one of my favorite quotes and it’s so powerful. My family definitely keeps me grounded, my beautiful fiancé, my kids, Ari and Donnie, love and togetherness keeps us happy.

If you could go anywhere in the world where would you want to travel to and why?

I really want to go to Africa. To me Africans are some of the most beautiful people on this planet. I Love their strength and not to mention they make beautiful music!

Name any well-known or high profile individuals you would love to meet in person. For instance if you met President Obama which song past or present would you sing for him?

Steve Harvey and Bishop TD Jakes. I admire men with great wisdom and these two definitely have it. Not quite sure about the song but I would think of something. LOL

Haha I can see it now with Steve Harvey! That would be fun to see, but I’m sure he would be very attentive and not silly as he is lol. Bishop TD Jakes I bet would have you antsy and ready to perform. Pins and needles.

How can newbies keep up with the Latest and Greatest?

You can follow me on twitter @Songwriter4You and facebook/TerryMcCarter Jr.

Tell us about any recent shows you attended.

I was just in Atlanta Georgia for Culture Shock Saturday June 1, 2013 I made a guest appearance along with my Fiancé to support her "self-worth" motivational speaking.

Are there any special appearances, shows, events that you can share for us to look out for?

Saturday June 22, 2013 I’m performing at Grace & Truth Apostolic Church in Bessemer, AL

I'm schedule to perform in Lakeland, Florida in August at the Purity Party Conference. Dates are to be announced.

October 24-25, 2013 I’ll be guest appearing in Raleigh, North Carolina

What lasting statement would you like to leave our readers with?

I would just like to encourage all of the readers to keep God first, remain faithful to your dreams and purpose by never doubting and always believing in "you".

To learn more about what's happenin next with this rising act Kool World stay tuned to the latest via RPRAI and keep up with all that's happening in his world!

@Songwriter4You

Terry McCarter

GroundXero Entertainment

GroundXero Music

Danny Wayne: Reprise of the Strong Melody

2013-02-07T13:43:00.000-05:00

It's important for the unheard to have a voice. At first the prospects of a promising career seem to be at hand but with the unexpected anything can suddenly fall off course...then you either let it take you down or you find another chance to go after your dreams again. You just keep pushing and climbing until it's time for your light to shine.

Our travels will take us to
Bakersfield, California on the west coast.
With California the vision of sunny clear blue skies that match the majestic ocean, surf boards,
Arnold Palmers in the hands of natives,
In-and-Out Burger as the go-to burger joint, and the large sign in the hills that spell

H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D clearly cross our minds. Not every part of this known state is as "sweet" but it does have its hidden gems, the
-diamond in the rough.

Danny Wayne is that gem with his lyrically Kool, and very real swag that delighted me upon first listen with his album Melody that released

early spring 2011 with a feature appearance from 5x Grammy nominated R&B experimentalist Miguel on his debut single, "Send Me A Picture".
We came together now going on two years after the supposed breakthrough of this studio album to catch up on what really happened to cause such an abrupt standstill and just frankly to get to know the man all over again, but the Serenada'sPen Way ;) So take a seat as you embark on a new discovery once more with another
Artist On The Rise
that will promisingly start the year off stronger than ever without anything to stand in his way.

It’s a pleasure meeting you for the First time Danny! May I call you Danny?!? Better yet, let me begin by asking if you have other “Better Known As” Names and if Danny Wayne is your Artist name?

Yeah Danny is cool, it's my real name and artist name.
Koolio, it’s fly as an Artist name. Looks like your momma knew you were gonna be a star ;)

" My mama told me... I always knew I’d be a star...that’s what mama told me"

From the limited sources I’ve found I was able to pull a little synopsis about your life and what I call , Teaser, about who you are. But that’s what I’m here for! To bring light to you because there may be so much you wish to share with the world and a lot peeps don’t know about you.

You’re originally from Bakersfield, California. I’ve been to Cali twice and I can’t even tell you if I’ve been in your neck of the woods or not lol. Tell us about your hometown. What was it like growing up in your neighborhood, to be quite frank, “The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly”
My paps moved us from Compton to Bakersfield when I was 8 with the hopes to escape LA's climaxing gang culture which took the lives of his nephews, but after we moved we quickly found out this gang problem was a California problem not an LA problem. I was raised on N st the west side of Bakersfield and like any other ghetto there was drugs, murder, banging, and all the above. My paps sheltered as long as he could even though he was selling drugs and scamming he was on that do what I say and not what I do type of thing but the popular culture of my city was a heavy influence so it wasn't long before I was selling drugs, carrying guns, and keeping it from my parents. I was a follower trying to prove myself until I fell in love with music. This cat from my city with the biggest dope run in the town was starting a group called PAC gangstas and he took interest in me. It's crazy because he was like my paps too he sold dope but he didn't want me too he would be cooking dope in his kitchen and at the same time telling me not too and that my rapping will take us all out of this. He was a G in my city respected by all gangs and I was his boy so all sides showed me love. The downside to all gangs likening you is if you give an event they all want to come and that wouldn't work. On July 27 2002 I married my high school girlfriend and we were soon find this out the hard way cats from different sides showed up there was a shooting there and a bridesmaid who was like a sister to me was killed at my wedding. It was a hard pill to swallow and left me reevaluating my life style and direction of my music.
Jesus....What a way to start this off. Super mad heavy but this is not about the frills and cute stuff. This is brutally honest and gritty. This story, your autobiography will connect to many.

Do you still live there or reside in another location?
Naw I don't stay on N no more but ma mamma and them do. I'm about ten minutes away.

When’s your “Special Holiday” or Born Day?

July 11th

Which is in Astrology Kool World, Cancer ;)

Start us off in the beginning, when everything you wanted to accomplish was just a dream. When did you have your first experience performing and what song did you use?
Well my first performance was in the
fifth grade me and my homie did Digital Underground's Humpty Dance hit in the school talent show, we killed it. We wore the big noses and all.

Digital Underground - The Humpty Dance

Powered by mp3skull.com

Ha! Now that’s a sight that would’ve been fun to see! Who can forget that fun track. I love that song to this day lol. ‘95 must’ve been a defining year for some because let me tell you it was the start of a musical awakening for me. Back in middle school I was all about my CD’s and walking around with my CD player (considered ancient and unheard of to young people now who have IPODS and other digital devices) It was the greatest thing for me, like I had discovered or learned something enriching for my life lol. My 2-Disc CD called Maximum Dance has The Humpty Dance on it and I wore it out.

Do you come from a musical background, roots within your family, or are you the lone ranger with the gift?
My paps passed this music thang down.
He been playing and singing ever since I could remember. He still gets down. He got a Blues band called "BLUE MIRROR".

Does your family support your career path or want you to pursue another focus?
They rooting for me they know what it is!
That’s good to know!
In more ways than one M.U.S.I.C. impacts so many areas of our lives, not just singing or rapping. Were you in the band in school?
Matter of fact I played the drums in Junior
high and a little bit of my Freshman year in high school, but that and my thugging ambitions wasn't mixing!
From learning of your backdrop I can understand why. Too bad it was getting in the way, but all events led you to where you are now so can it really be faulted?

Are you a “one-man” show or part of a group?

Rehearsing with PAC NASHUN!

I'm doing my solo
thing now but my foundation is a group called PAC NASHUN!
Interesting name, sounds like a clothing brand or clothing line.

Do you have your own record label or signed under one?
I was signed to a minor label called
Artist Finders
which helped spread my wings and build a little but that's a rap now, on good terms though.

Do you currently have an agent, sponsor, or manager that conducts the major business for you or do you handle it all yourself?
I'm handling it myself for now under the consultation of a few heavy hitters I'm connected to.
Well with the help of social media it's a lot easier to get out there with the right moves. Its like I'm going back to school to get my Masters. I'm studying the new way things are being done.

I sold 50 ,000 CD's out
the trunk of my car getting money which was cool but I missed out on a lot of this computer world but I wouldn't change it for the world. My tangible people skills are way up thanks to a real ground game and the way you can be reshaped and
represented an artist so fast thru the smoke and mirrors of social media my minor pitfalls will not stop me unless I let it!

Tell us about your team, “Street Team” to be exact. The individuals who support your endeavors and hold it down. How do they help your name to grow and stay relevant?
My street team is deep and still growing. Front and center just to name a few I got Kendolks, Arjune Dee, and a lot more because we sell our music out the trunk and when people can get paid they wit it, so we straight.

For those who have not heard of you or listened to your albums, what topics do you tend to cover in your music and what is it about these topics that you feel are important for people to know?
What sets you apart from other rising Rap Artists out here trying to make names for themselves?
I like to talk about every thing but when you
hear Danny Wayne you'll hear my faith, you'll hear my hurt, my humility, storytelling from personal experience, a cocky battle rapper, encouragement thru melodies, and anger. As cliche as it sounds I got the GUMBO.
The Only difference in this ghetto story is that it's my story and it will musically sound better than when I tell it. I want the chill bumps on my listeners arms every time they listen to me!
Tell it! If that’s what you seek then that’s what’s going down. From listening to your work I was instantly drawn in. It was understandable, relatable on a human-level without the need of coming from where you’re coming from. Meaning my life’s story is nothing like yours but somehow you reach out to people and give a sense of hope and victory. Much like preaching to the choir in an artistic way. Your tunes are catchy as well and it makes your lyrics stand-out even more.

Which music artists, past or present, do your listeners claim you resemble?

Too Short

Honestly not being cocky I rarely get mixed up but somebody once told me my voice resembles

Too Short!

But my rap patterns change according to the beat!

True, I believe I’ve noticed the variation. That’s one of the reasons why it was important to cover you because you give honest, straightforward messages, and change-up to create something new and different every time.

How long have you been performing live?
Since elementary school

Your most recent album Melody, was released in 2011. I can tell from your twitter that there was a lot of excitement and hype surrounding its release at that time, including radio promos, photo shoots, and videos. I’ve discovered work from Artists that was never meant to be exposed so it surprises me not to be able to see your work. Is there any reason why your projects are not available for the public to view?
Well, put it like this, I was on a ride that was taking me places that I would not have been able to go without the drivers that took me. I didn't agree with all the moves but it is what it is now. I’m on a "fresh start" before being on a label. I just wanted my music to sound better than everybody elses and I wanted to sell it, hand over fist! But now that I know the pluses of having a team, I'm looking forward to working with another one under different conditions.
I feel you. But dang, I was so excited though :(

How does the title of your album tie into the overall theme of your project?
Well if we're talking Melody it's self explanatory. I love melodies but if we’re talking about my Thin Line album, I'm basically

saying there is a thin line between every thing not just love and hate.
The songs are so different. On one side of the line I'm rapping, big balling on another, I'm down in the dumps trying to come up, and that flip side affect with different subjects is all thru that album.

Me too. Melodies are it for me. I’m sure that’s why I’m drawn to it.

Which Artists have you worked with and which ones would you love to collab with on a track?
I would love to work with anybody that loves

E-40

to make good music but if I could pick one I would love to make a heart felt one with e40.
That would be fly. The first time I ever heard of E-40 was through my cousin back in my middle school days.The No Limit craze and all who was affiliated with it were her top favs. It was through her fan-obsession that I even know who this guy is instead of confusing his name with a drink, pistol, even that robot from Star Wars lol.

I want to allow you the opportunity to think outside of the box and be ultimately creative and original. If you can give a name to your style of music, what genre bending title would you give it?
Well I don't categorize it, but I know they will call it hip hop by my positive take on things! If I was to name it it would be "truth" music.
I’ll take that ;)

Giving you the Main Stage…describe to us what the Ultimate Concert Experience would be like if you’re the main act? Location and/or venue, Props, other Performers, Outfits, Music Selections, etc?
I could see my self dressed down not too much but they would be wondering where did I get those shoes and the hat while they sing along to one of my catchy hooks I do!
(Madison Square Garden)

lol, why would they question your attire like that? Something tells me you think outside of the box and want to make your own individual statement as an artist. Whether I think something is odd, or off-the-wall, I commend Artists or anyone else in the world who takes a leap of faith to try something new or go all out creative because it feels right to them. Madison Square Garden is the joint. I think for many Artists that is THE Go-to spot.
Well, they would question it in a dope way meaning, only thing I really put much thought in are my kicks and hat, nothing too wild though just fly.
oh-tay! I gotcha ;) Just had to make sure cuz every performer has to put on their dope threads. You know how to rock out.

What “highlights” or accomplishments lead you to where you are now in your career?
The moment I stopped looking for music hook ups and started slanging My CD's out the trunk of my car! My accomplishments I want to achieve is that you don't have to be a follower to win.
I know that's right. Must make it happen yourself!

From scoping out one of your posters it read, “50,000 sold, no label, no video, no radio”. What method did you use to promote yourself as an Artist and your music to the public, especially with the challenges of the economy still?
I had a cell phone shop in the hood and we would get some of every type of problem and person come thru those doors and those interactions

shaped my people skills and sales. Selling CDs was nothing and another thing that tuned my sales pitch up was my first hustle trip to new York where I encountered the most blunt people I've ever met in my life.

Oh heck yea! You aint no?!? If you can’t make it in New York, you can’t make it anywhere. I believe that. I’ve only been there maybe two or three times and didn’t stay there long enough to really interact with people. I’m from the south but we can be rough and tumble too if we need to be. Maybe not on the harder level as New Yorkers, but we will stand our ground. The West Coast and East Coast are two major extremes anyways. I bet it was a wake up call with what you experienced in New York. Selling in that big ol’ city is exactly what challenges are all about.
Are you saying you experienced a lot of negative responses towards your music?
Naw New York helped tune our hustle game up. You gotta be good if you want to sell them something, so we were forced to step it up. That was our only way to eat, the horse was bucking but we held on!

Free-style Battles and/or Cyphers are blazing the sets of many open platforms for rising rap artists and current artists. Do you participate in these battles? If so, do you get a rush from it when you’re attacking your opponent?
Naw I don't really freestyle but when I do get going I rank high!
Which means you aint b*llsh*ting. You’re going in all the way and will be the only one coming out.

Would you say you’re widely received in the rap game or do you experience animosity from your contemporaries?

A little bit of both. I know I'm a threat because I do positive music that the goons and the crooks can relate to and my competitors probably would prefer me to have this geeky crowd following me, but I was never the geek I just honestly admit every thing I was taught to look up to was a lie and I don't point fingers at anyone but me and that shoe can fit a lot of people that listen to my music!
Well “geek” and “geeky” is highly misunderstood in this context. You’re an honest guy and stand by it. So what if your crowd is/not “geeky”, they’re still supporting your endeavors because they believe in your words. At the end of the day does the type of people really matter?!? The haters out here will find the right spot to push and once it happens they know they put their opponent a step-behind as they move forward. Perhaps on your behalf you can explain exactly what “geek” means around your way because words have different meanings and connotations everywhere.
Well when I say geeky I mean the "don't knows" not up on game!
I had to clarify just in case someone was being called geeky one too many times. I'll go ahead and call myself an "in the know" geek. Yea, it's backwards but I can do that =P na-na-na

Have you entered any contests, volunteered to perform for benefit or charity concerts or events, or did any free shows for your community?
Yep I do a lot of that: schools, community, outreaches etc.. That's what it's about to me. Excellent, that’s really good you give back to people.

What is it about the music industry that many of us are misinformed or not 100% clear about?
How much really goes into being an artist.

Not to make this an essay question, but it does help our Readers to understand more clearly. Name a few examples of what you’re saying, ‘what goes into being an artist’.
I mean you gotta live this thing! I've made so many sacrifices to where it's too late to turn around now. I got friends that said the hell with this music and went back to school, got good jobs, and all that. My mind doubts sometimes. I think to myself should I have done the same? I'm human but thru prayer, and hard work my eyes remain on the prize!

That's what I'm talking about, the nitty gritty that people can relate to! Now I can say, I know exactly what you're talking about. The Arts are already a challenging field to make a living from but of course many Artists in all fields have shown it is possible. It is very hard but I believe in purpose. Hard work does pay off and faith does have a lot to do with it. I say keep going, you've already made it so far already.

Miguel is one of the hottest acts to date at this very moment and you used his name strongly in the promo of your album, how did you become acquainted with the San Pedro, CA native?
My former label hooked that up! My first time meeting him was recording at Paramount Studios.

Money Miles & Miguel in the studio

Really??!?? Exciting. Paramount Studios, huh. Not too bad. For me it’s neat to learn this as a fan and follower of his work. You may still not have anything substantial posted online to the public but I found some interesting footage while researching that shows him briefly in one of your studio sessions ;)

He's known in Cali for his production and vocal expertise, so having him around must've been like a pot o' gold. Who came up with the concept and lyrics of the song, SEND ME A PICTURE?
Yes it was a honor to be in the room with him we vibed super cool. He thought of the whole concept I just later added the rap on it later.

The way I stumbled upon it was totally by accident. On Spotify looking up his work and there it was, the lone wolf. So I clicked on it curious as a mug, not expecting to get as excited as I did, and knew right then I had to blast it out! I’m not sure how many people got the memo on just how Kool & Fly it is, but it really is. If I could just blast Kool songs all day and get mad money for it I would’ve had fun raking it in on this one. Your lines are cute, not sissy cute, (I’m a lady that’s how we describe things lol) but just Good (I just <3 your flow)

Like the Marching Band Snare I’m on a rooolllll! Ha! Love.

Two Great Artists that are BLOWIN' UP so Loudly right now, KENDRICK LAMAR & MIGUEL, worked with you in 2011 during the same time with the release of your album MELODY. Everything looks Good, nothing to worry about. But somewhere a fork separated the road. Just recently KENDRICK LAMAR released his album and his hit SWIMMING POOLS asserted the attention of many listeners and viewers. MIGUEL, noted song-writer, producer, as well as singer is nominated for a Grammy with his hit R&B song, ADORN plus an additional 4 More. Your name is not even mentioned in the mix of these 2 Artists successes. Both of them have made the ultimate Victory, but here you are with no hugely major attention brought to your accomplishments and no acknowledgement for your album.
This is your chance to clear the air and give us your point-of-view.
Where do you think it went wrong or did not hit the mark if you think there’s a reason?
What do you think is the reason for this sudden change in events?
Just to set the record straight I haven't worked with Kendrick Lamar! I think whoever my former label had to set up and host my twitter just put extras on it. I remember I was supposed to work with Kendrick but it never happened. To be honest till just last month I had never been active on my twitter page. I just Googled my name one day and seen that I had a twitter account set up I didn't know about. I just tried the same code they gave me for my Facebook account and tada it worked. I seen potential Danny Wayne fans reaching out to me on there and I just stayed using that page to keep contact. Me and Miguel were in the studio together but originally I wasn't on the Send Me A Picture song. That song was supposed to be on a Tyler Perry movie and ended up not being in the movie. And my manager had me drop a verse on it and they ran with it.

Which really caused no dent whatsoever because you did create a hugely successful song called

Thru The Roof, that actually featured in the Tyler Perry movie MADEA's Big Happy Family!

I remember going to see it and never would've thought I would have the honor of speaking to the Artist who's song was in the movie! Tyler Perry is big in Atlanta and around the world now for his portrayal of Madea, as we know as big momma in America's black culture.

There's also something else special about your appearance in this movie. Hope you don't mind if I boast on your behalf a lil' bit for you ;)

Bakotopia-
A Bakersfield community hub for the latest news and updates mostly covering the Art's scene and NAA winner of the 2006 Digital Edge Award, respectfully acknowledges your success:

"Wayne has the proud distinction of being the only rapper to ever be chosen to participate on a Tyler Perry film soundtrack."

-Matt Munoz Danny Wayne

Which deserves a round of Applause! And if anyone thought it stopped there they were very wrong. Your music was also featured in another Tyler Perry movie, For Colored Girls. You had to have gained much street cred and attention from many for these monumentally historic accomplishments. This is the kind've stuff that history is made of -leaving your own personal stamp on the world.
Now this is what I'm dying to know, did you meet Mr. Perry and the cast?
I never met him or his cast.
awww! that sucks. Well you definitely should have. Mr. Perry! Check out the guy behind with the rap-tastic flava on your soundtracks!

I love your "they'll never take me alive" undefeated spirit with all that you had to encounter and surpass. It definitely is moving and motivating. This quote you released sums up much of how you feel:
“Could of been had a major music deal if I was
willing to sell my soul but instead I walked away from my management right while a song I recorded with Miguel start playing on radio but watch 2013 I know GOD will bless me independently without having to sell out this beastly planets youth poisoning agenda! You still have to have talent though a lot of these cats that sold out still aint gone make it even if the devil himself was a feature on their album! (mark my words)”

Do you feel discouraged for not receiving the “Spotlight” similar to your counterparts with their projects you equally worked hard for?
Naw I don't feel discouraged because those guys earned their success. And my label was just trying to piggie back me on their success. I will see Miguel again and it will be gravy. He knows I was a small fry in all those dealings that went on. And when me and Kendrick finally meet it's gonna be magic if somebody aint already salted me off by saying it's named DannyWayne out there falsely claiming to working with you.
Oh yea, better believe it’s gonna be majic! I will be so excited to see the results cuz I will boast like crazy that we talked first :) And we said it right here.

Have you ever had to deal with negative publicity or harsh critics? How did you handle the “bad press”?
All the time. If you don't get that, you aint doing
it right!
hmmm....hear that Kool World. Spoken from the man right here!

Take us into the decision-making process, the business side of things. What are the pressures like to create a song or album with your name attached to it that is authentically yours? Is it more challenging to stay true to your own sound and vision than it is to let others around you sway your ideas & creativity?
It's a beautiful thing doing an authentic Danny Wayne album. No worries! I'm free now, the only time I had other influences was on a label!

Which song from your album, Melody do you feel the most sentiment or connection towards?
The song Melody because it was me reminding this structured industry that it's the unorthodox artist that sets the trends so don't let the snapping fingers style that paid the label's bills for the last eleven months blind you from spotting the next Michael Jackson on month 12.

There’s 1 song I’m really diggin’ Rags To Riche$.

I mean you got me on that one... It's excellent as a hit single in itself!

"I'm trying to tell the world my story... I want to tell the world about my story but first I have to make it out these rags!" That's why I ball so haaard! -Real Talk.

One of the Realest things I’ve noticed about you is your devotion to your faith and having that strong foundation in your life. Do you feel it plays a strong factor in your relevancy or irrelevancy in mainstream rap music?
My faith in Jesus and my walk is everything
to me. I get persecuted for it but I'm up for the
challenge. And will be relevant.
Excellent! Love this.

Which part of the process do you enjoy the most: Writing, Creating the song, Recording, and/or Performing Live? All the above.

Does writing your lyrics come easy for you or can it be stressful under a deadline to complete? Sometimes

What inspires you about R&B and/or Hip-Hop?

New Edition & Bobby Womack

The soul in it, the slave blood that still runs through hip-hop and r&n veins!

What music do you enjoy listening to?
90’s and mainly New Edition and Bobby Womack

How would you describe your fan-base?
I would say a mixture of everybody because I sell my music in person and I will approach anyone to buy it.

What is the response or reaction you receive from your fans meeting you up-close. Are they jaded, expecting something more or just want to show love for how you make them feel with your music?
I get love. People usually tell me how my music spoke to them in some way!
I know what they mean! That's wassap. It really does though.

It’s not an easy ride to achieve success through one’s passion so what do you attribute to your drive as an Artist?
Looking at my son and nephews and knowing that what this rap game owes me can give them the life I never had. Typical but true.

From each album: The Line and Melody, what have you experienced or what growth did you achieve each time? What point did you want to make with each one?
It's been too much growth. I can't wait to
display it in my upcoming work. Melody and Thin Line albums were cool but they didn't give the whole circumference of me as an artist. I like to have total control like Beyonce, Michael Jackson, Puff Daddy.
What has been one of the hardest realizations you had to come to grips with in the music industry? Evil is what they are selling.
Revealing testimony...

If you absolutely had no way of continuing your first love, what’s your Plan B or other options you have? For instance, are there any other forms of ART (sculpting, drawing, print making) you enjoy as a hobby?
My plan b is promotions or either management.

Give us a glimpse inside your world. With all that you’ve possibly seen lol.... what has been one of the craziest, wildest experiences behind the scenes or performing in front of fans that you can publicly share?
Well me and my brother n law prayed in the morning for a recording studio. In the morning and by nightfall we went selling CD's in a parking lot and a lady walks up to us and says God told her she was going to meet someone that does music and she was told to bless them. She bought all the CD's we had then gave us 2,700 dollars to start our own studio up.
If that doesn’t make a non-believer B.E.L.I.E.V.E. then I don’t know what will! That’s above and beyond Amazing. Wow... She surely did the Lord’s bidding. I don’t know if I would ever be the same after experiencing something like that in life :)

Now let’s hang for a minute! Just to get to know The Man Behind The Rhymes

Taking yourself outside of the music scene and all that comes with it, what hobbies or interests do you have? Cutting hair, writing skits. I also have a local magazine called Milq that I run.

There are plenty of shorties that cross your path and to tell you the truth Danny it’s like looking at the same image over and over again sometimes. What characteristics or traits about a woman will completely captivate your attention?
The man that I was honestly would say a body and nice face but now I know there's much more to a woman.
And Thank God you Realize that! Do you know how many knot-heads out here go through life never figuring it out. Hmmm.."why am I always checking up on these same ol’ chicken-heads"...well because you haven’t learned she’s not the one to bring home to momma lol.

Are you happily committed or checking out the

scene? Married
Lovely, lucky lady! :)

What’s your favorite food? Grits
I can’t believe it...you done gon’ went South on me! lol. So you like some grits huh. Alrighty then. You may or may not know but I’m from the south, All hail Georgia. Grits are a staple in my household and I grew up eating them for breakfast. Still do :)

What’s your favorite color(s)? Charcoal grey

Are you the proud papa of any children?
8 year old son Danny jr
Awww!

Any pets that bring the family household joy?
Blue pit bull named Dot
huh?!? Did you just say a “Blue” pit bull?!? wow...for real? Ya’ll must’ve dyed that poor dog in a bath of blue lol. Why ya’ll gonna traumatize the poor baby? lol
Naw we didn't do Dot like that. Blue is his breed!

haha. OMG, for real?!? Shows how little I know about dog breeds. I mean c'mon, I'm sure you get alot of confusion with that one when no one has seen your dog lol. I was already assuming Dot was a girl too, so I'm 100% off target all the way around! But hey can you really fault me? There is a trend going on right now where owners are taking their dogs to have their heads, ears, feet, and legs dyed these wacky colors. All for the sake of "look how cute he/she is" lol. If it's not turning your pet into a wild animal then it's dying their fur.

If you can have anyone in the world play you in your (own personal story) biopic, Danny Wayne’s Life, besides yourself of course, who would bring the realness and honor to your narrative?
I would have to play me like Fantasia did. I'm a strange bird on a strange trip.
Are you sure? So there’s absolutely nobody that you can think of that can portray you in a movie?
Naw not really, I can't think of no Heavy set cats that can do me but me!
Fair enough lol.

How would you describe your own personal “style” in apparel as Danny Wayne the Artist compared to D.W. the everyday guy?
Sporty street at all times never too much.

Which do you prefer to travel: Plane, Trains, or Automobiles? Cars

Living life in the Fast Lane is how big ballers get down. With so many hot rides to choose from and to want tell us what car describes your Artist persona? Ford crown Victorias, that's what the cops drive. They are built for the long haul!
Kool, that’s smooth.

It’s not a secret with the many drinks of choice in The Life, especially at parties. I’m not a major drinker. The whole shot glass thing is not for me lol. What’s your favorite alcoholic beverage?
Lil wine
Aight, we kool lol. I may not be a big drinker but I do like Arbor Mist lol. I love the Sangria.

lol Give one of the craziest, wackiest lines you’ve heard in a song that you can think of right off the bat. And it can’ t be one of your own =P
I'm different yeah I'm different, I'm different yeah I'm different!
You know I'm crackin' up right now, right lol. I actually was jammin' to those lines until I heard the whole song and was completely turned off. Not exactly what I thought.

To reach international success is to achieve a major feat. Have you travelled outside of the US? Which countries would you love to visit?
Haven't went outside the US yet but China would be cool.
Yea, that would be fly. Make sure you hit me up when you get out there. I want pics ;) Italy is my hot vacay spot of choice.

What can you say about yourself that people may misunderstand or get wrong until getting to know you better?
That I'm just a hood cat.
We’ve all been stereotyped and labeled. I know I have! I’m glad you’re letting peeps know what time it is.

Football is a center-point with the young men in your family and was an important element in your childhood. Who is your favorite sport’s team? And what was your school-experience like growing up?
Buffalo bills, school was cool I was a follower of the wrong crowds though!
That’s awesome! All Buffalo Bills fans out there S/O to you! I’ll tell ya school is one place I don’t care to remember and wish to ultimately forget lol. Sounds like you were a lil bad ass in school ;)

If you can change anything about the way the world is what would you change and why?
The hate , it's useless
Point-blank...feelin it!

Let’s say as an honorable guest you’re able to visit the “Political White Palace” The White House and meet our continuing reigning President Barack Obama. Which tracks would you love to perform for him? (Past or Current Work)

A song called "It Changes" off my Thin Line album.

It may be possible you pushed yourself out to the world, but if there’s anyone who would you like to give credit to for your discovery?
My Patna Bob that put me and my boys together on this music thang in a time when my city was at war. He saved my life with music.

What advice given to you do you still believe in and hold on to this day that fuel your determination through the ups and downs?
One monkey don't stop no show. My boy P RIP used to throw that at me and if you let people make you they can break you.
ha! Love it. Don’t get it but hey it represents your life. 2nd part I do though ;)

What verse, quote, or mantra motivates and lifts you through all the toughest situations?
He who humbles himself shall be lifted but he who lifts himself will be humbled. (Bible)

For Up-and-Comers determined to make their mark, what words of wisdom can you give them from all that you learned & experienced on your journey- personally and/or professionally?
Don't sell who you are to this and if you really want this count up the cost
Cause it's a HEAVY fee.
Spectacular! :)

What should they be prepared for before attempting to head into the music industry?
A hard lesson

Finish this statement. My Biggest Goal I Will Achieve in 2013 is Will be my new album.
To start ;)

And you better keep your word and make it happen partna! lol I’m serious.

What legacy do you hope to leave this world when the last chapter of your life comes to a close? Christ came and died so that we might have everlasting life!

Share with us any events coming up or plans in the works we can look out for.
Performances every where
Yup. And we want to see every last one!

How can my Readers keep up with the Latest & Greatest?

Dannywayne 1000

Twitter
Facebook

This concludes our time with the 1 and Only Danny Wanye reppin' from Bakersfield, California Kool World. Thank you for shedding light on your happenings with your own story and we hope to see you finally take off and keep going up from here! Much Love & Continued Success!

Melody is Available NOW so get your copy! Amazing material ;)

http://www.artistfinders.com/products/Melody_Album-60-0.html

Check out Danny Wayne's album Thin Line!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/thin-line/id448354329
http://www.amazon.com/Thin-Line/dp/B005AQTVGS
http://www.iheart.com/artist/Danny-Wayne-300854/albums/Thin-Line-14456765/

And to Connect more with the hip-cat and his team PAC NASHUN check out:
http://www.reverbnation.com/dannywayne
http://www.myspace.com/pacnashunfamily
http://www.unsigned.com/pacnashun
http://www.reverbnation.com/pacnashun
http://www.bakotopia.com/users/PacNashun/
http://www.amazon.com/We-Had-It-Hard-Explicit/dp/B001R2ZEKG

Hiri SkyWalker

2013-01-25T17:38:00.000-05:00

Greetings My Darlings!

Your girl Serenada'sPen is BACK
letting you in on the Latest
Talented Showstoppers that are attacking their chosen Artistic fields with Intensity and Pure Passion.We have taken the music route once more and have found a Wonderful Musical Discovery you will surely Love AND Remember.

I’ve packed up my bags and left my southern home to take a journey to
the “Big Lights and Big City”
on the east coast. The place where dreams are made and where the JAY-Z’s, P.DIDDY’s, NICKI MINAJ’s, NAS’s, and LIL’ KIM’s roam, waiting for that 1 magical moment to showcase what they’re made of that can change their lives forever.
New York

Jay-Z Feat. Alicia Keys - Empire State Of Mind

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We’re going into one of the hidden gems of this magical city, landing me into what is known as, “The Lost Burrough”- One of the grittiest, grimiest, dangerous areas to live and keep hope alive when the crime rate is at an all-time high with hate and poverty as its side-kicks.

Here resides, Hiri SkyWalker, an amazing aspiring rap artist/producer who writes his own material and has already made big accomplishments at the starting point of his long and exciting journey with the release of his debut Solo EP Hi SkyWorld released last year 2012 with his crew MusicForTheDef aka OurTalentTakingOver. With a soon to be released body of work for his
first self-proclaimed
LP, R.E.P., Real Equals Prosperity,
he is well on the road to stardom with nothing to hold him back. The saying goes; If you can’t make it here then you can’t make it anywhere.” This “Jedi Knight” with his light saber of many colors proves that and he will have you believe that whether you live in New York or not, you can equally achieve your dreams no matter where you are or however dire your circumstances may be.

So Stay tuned and don’t go anywhere because you will receive the full-coverage on what it’s like to live in
Hiri’s Hi SkyWorld and everything he has done to lead him up to where he is now with musical selections to allow you the full effect of his producing mastermind.

It’s so nice to meet you Hiri Sky Walker! How are you luv?

I'm good how are you?

Good, Good, Good! Now that I’m chatting with you superstar on the rise ;)

BTW absolutely love your name. I feel as though I’m in a Star Wars flick lol. Just so dramatic and fascinating. So let’s start there, what inspired the creation of such a colorful name and

what is your Real name?

I came up with the name because it was different , who would name themselves after a sci-fi character? And also it described how advanced my style is musically and fashion. My real name is actually Bahiri Lykym Mattiex but people call me what they please lol

OMG even more fascinating REAL name! It's not hard at all, Ba[hiri]. I see what you did with your name, real fly. What are your origins, cultural background?
I have no idea, I ask my parents and they just tell me I'm black but I like to think I'm Jamaican and African.

Where were you born?

I was born in Rochester , NY aka 585 bka the lost borrough.

Do you still live there or reside in another location?

I still live in Rochester to this day , it's really the inspiration for my music.

When is your born day?
I was born November 7th , 1997

Ah! ’97 was a real good year, I remember. You’re just a youngin’ as we call it here in the south lol. For real though besides the music world mourning over Biggie and Tupac there was some great joints poppin’off at that time.

Do you come from a “well-to-do”, average, or humble childhood?
kinda all of them. I do well but its average and I live humble and grew up humble.

That can be a rarity seeing the perspective from all 3 angles. Awesome.

How has music played a significant role in your upbringing and/or experiences outside of home that jump-started this path you want to follow?
Music is Rhythm and Rhythm is everything .... the way we walk , talk, and act. Music has always affected my life because music has always been my life.

Sounds like music was the core in your home growing up.

What music do you recall being played the most in your home from your family?
My mom was a big neo-soul fan (Floetry , Lauryn Hill , Erykah ,etc) and my dad was and is a real hip-hop head so we listened to everything from Common to Nas , Jay- Z to Krs-1 , Wu-Tang and much more.
Great variety! Definitely my favs all of them. Your parents are fresh ;)

I’m noticing a strong use of soft piano in the background of a few of your songs. Do you play any instruments?
I love piano, it's my favorite instrument next to the violin. I actually play piano and I will start showcasing that on the upcoming albums and I play the drums very well.

Now that is very exciting! I would love to see you play the piano. Your musicality is sharp so I’m sure you get down on the keys and drums too. What you need to do is video record yourself playing these instruments so you can be the next You Tube sensation. Or just to wow us viewers.

Does your family support your musical aspirations or do they want you to pursue another path?

My family supports my musical aspirations because they know how good I am and how deep I get into music and my passion for it.

Tell us about the first time you performed. What song did you sing and/or rap and who was it in front of?
My first real performance was at the 2012 Chernesky festival in Auburn , NY with my crew . It was a small outside crowd at first but when people heard our music ..30 people became 40 and 40 became 50 and so on , it was a great experience.

Now that’s what I call a Real turn-out! Good Job. That had to be very rewarding for you guys.

Are you signed to a label or do you have your own?
I'm building a brand right now, not so much of a label, but it's called MusicForTheDef ...

As soon as we get on paper then we'll start creating our own label for us and other acts I respect.

Do you have a manager, sponsor, or under an agency?
I am the manager for right now, we don't have any sponsors but I know for a fact that once we catch on that'll change.

Okay Great!

Which topics and subjects do you cover in your songs?
I really rap about the average teenage life ... and I rap about my life , my experiences.

Now “average” teen life is seen through different lens for teenagers everywhere. Take us into your world Hiri. What is it about your life that sets you a part from the next teen? Name a couple of your experiences- Good, Bad, or Ugly, entirely up to you.
In Rochester the crime rate is crazy, every other week someone is always dying and 9/10 it's someone you know and relationships here are crazy for me too...
sometimes I think of myself as a loner so I basically put my feelings about those subjects on paper. Also the hate is crazy where I'm from and the poverty is too in a way, but I just call it "Warfare and Welfare".
From what you shared you're right to call it "Warfare and Welfare". Sounds like a d*mn good song title too. Make sure you use it! Tell your story and keep it alive because that's the real stuff, tell your story no matter how gritty and grimy it gets.

Are you a solo performer or part of a group?

I am proudly a part of a group ... no a movement .... MusicForTheDef : OurTalentTakingOver but for my rebel / hipster friends it's DefMovement.

What are the names of the other members of your entourage?
The name of the people in my group are Shawn Retro , Bmc, and we have a camera man Xavier DelaCruz and a lot of honarary members too that I'm going to start working with.

Where did you all meet and decide to become 1 Body?
I knew Shawn my whole life basically ...ever since kindergarten. We lost touch after 3rd grade but fate led us to meet again in the summer of 8th grade. I told him how I wanted to get serious with rapping and then told him about my show coming up and how I needed a hype man. He said he'll be the hype man then a couple months later he was like " I want to rap " so we started a group. Then Shawn met Blake aka bmc and added him to the group and we've been tight ever since.

I love stories like this…reacquainting after getting separated. Yea, that sounds like fate to me.

How do they contribute individually to the sound that will be branded as your own?
Shawn raps , he has a joey badass type flow mixed with tyga and Bmc is a singer and rapper ... kinda resembles a church boy.
Interesting

Download HiSkyWorld http://www.datpiff.com/HiriSkyWalker-HiSkyWorld-mixtape.370332.html

List all of your projects you have completed so far. How do the titles tie into the theme and what makes each one different?
My solo project " HiSkyWorld" which tells about my world and me and Nia Keturah's EP entitled " 7 ". It just gave people a feel of a trippy ride. And coming up I have an album with my group entitled " R.E.P " which stands for Real Equals Prosperity and the title gives the best description of the project.

7 volume One by Nia Keturah
What was your purpose or goal for your
mixtape and how would you improve it now from listening back?
My purpose was to inspire , impress and gain listeners.... if I had a chance I would go back and redo every single beat on " HiSkyWorld" because I made them when I just started producing beats.

From listening to the mixtape I really enjoyed it, especially at the beginning. I would’ve sworn I was listening to a released LP. Very impressive work.
Thanks, I'm humbled you would say that.

Instantly, hands down, my favorites from Hi SkyWorld are the first 3 songs: Future References, Insomnia, Let Go (sampling from Frou Frou Let Go) others are Wassup, The BackPacker, Concrete Jungle.

Free Electronic Press Kits template from ReverbNation.com

I must play devil’s advocate...okay, so you have good material, so what...there’s plenty of cats out here who can equally do the same thing and can pack a mean punch. What makes you think you have what it takes to make it in such an industry that will chew you up and spit you back out?
I have raw talent , a good support system , a great team , and Travi$ Scott's ex manager Shane Morris has been giving me a few pointers on song structure and song writing.
That’s an answer I like to hear. As long as the support is there you can’t go wrong.

Are you widely received among your contemporaries or do you experience animosity? What is the “good and bad” like for you?
I have no animosity at all , I’m a pretty chill dude who stays in his own lane ...acts humble but is very competitive low key.

Oh I feel you, we’re not worried about that lol. It’s the other cats out here who will try to steal your thunder, not show respect, and throw you off track. Have you had any experiences with any of that?
I've had one altercation if you want to call it that, but it was minor, just a little hate from the guy here and there but me and my crew pay him no mind.

You’re still in the early phases of your accomplishments and still have a long way to go but out of curiosity have you experienced your “big break” or breakthrough performance, or act caught the eyes of the right people to get you where you are now? Or do you feel you haven’t reached that point yet, just making small successes to get there?
Man, I'm just getting started and I'm not stopping... I have years to perfect everything and make more connections so I think I haven’t had a big break yet, however my biggest accomplishment is producing for Angel Haze.

Angel Haze

I know it was a big dousie to ask since you’re just starting out but I can’t presume to know, cuz honestly I don’t. Anything is possible ;)I have a feeling Angel Haze is a name we need to know about. Can you elaborate on who this person is?

She was a XXL Freshman nominee, on BET cypher, and she's all over the mags and blog sites. Just google her...she's a dope femcee.
For all the readers, a ' Femcee ' is a female Emcee/MC.

Which contests, “star search” tv shows, programs, guest appearances for other Artists (upcoming and well-known), or benefit concerts have you participated in?
I have done none but America may see me and my crew on America's got talent or X-Factor.
Yup for sure! Get ya’ll a**es on both if you can. Prepare like mad. It would be great to see you all there!

Creating music is an art form as well as dancing, painting, or wood carving. Are you involved in other forms and/or interested in trying something new?

I love high end art mixed with graffiti so i'll get in to that soon.
Ooh fancy! lol You’re the first to mention this with Graffiti

Which music Artists inspire you and would be the ultimate dream experience to collab and/or perform with?

Kanye first of all he's a genius ... Travi$ Scott, G.O.O.D Music period, Outkast , WuTang, and the soulquarians..also Cocaine 80's

For those who have never heard your music before how would you describe it to them?
Sometimes simple but also complex and real.Which music Artists do your listeners and fans claim you resemble? Do you like these Artist’s styles?
Alot of people say I look like Chief Keef lol but musically alot of people compare me to a young Kanye West. I'm ok with the comparisons too because Kanye is what many artists should strive to be.

I was trying to figure out myself who you looked like but didn’t know who. You sorta do resemble Chief Keef. Don’t we all look like somebody lol. Look-a-likes everywhere. Any reference to Kanye is a plus, on the artistic side of things.

If this applies, How long have you been performing live?
I've only had 6 performances so far.

Better than none!

From what you notice so far, who comprises of your fanbase? Are you shocked or surprised by the type of people who are drawn to your music?
SkateBoarders, Tumblr Models , Kanye Fans , All types of people and I'm not suprised because I resemble so much of my fans when I listen to music.

This is cute…Tumblr models… yea you have officially made an all-around fanbase for yourself. All I’m saying is you need to remember me when you hit Platinum lol.

Which part of the process excites you the most: writing, producing, recording, or performing the song live?
Producing, I love making beats...I can do it for hours and not get tired of it.

Fantastic. You’ve shared your other major claim to fame.

I’m not sure how far you have reached in your journey to know the ins and outs of the music industry. But if you can Hiri, share with us something we have no clue about involving this world of music that you can attest to & provide.
Theres a lot to learn about music and that's one thing i've learned about music.

Which song from all the work you’ve done can you perform over and over again without ever getting tired of?
Insomnia , LetGo and a new song called breath.

Which one(s) has the most sentimental value where it touches you on a much deeper level?
Never Made it , InterludeForHer and TheFuneral

I’m sure you’ve had your share of goof-ups and mishaps while performing, rehearsing, etc. Give us an inside look at a time you felt mortified and how you recovered from it?
At one of my shows I said one of my verses wrong but I caught myself and kept rapping.

That’s a very common slip-up that is very understandable. One of the fears that I expected many Artists to have would be is to forget their lyrics or say a line(s) at the wrong time. You’re sharp to be able to catch it as it’s happening and keep going.

You now have the opportunity to tell the world exactly what your self-proclaimed music is called. What unique name, coined by you, would you give your style?
UpperEchelon Soul , DefMusic , and PopArt

Excelente! UpperEchelon Soul is killer ;)

Have this moment of Glory and let’s really get real about what you want. If the purpose behind the music is to obtain recognition and gain a following then tell me what your ideal stage performance is. Including location, when (time), live instrumentation, costumes (fashion choices), lighting, special guests, song selections, whatever you can think of. Give us your dream performance.

Vans Warped Tour at night where people have out their cells phones and lighters up .... Me wearing some high end fashion stuff like Givenchy, Couture, Versace with some yeezy's on . Me and my crew with an appearance from A$ap Rocky, Travi$ Scott, Kanye West, or a lot of dope artists I listen to.
Aw man! You aint kidding when you mentioned “high-end”. Did you really say Givenchy & Versace? Alright now. Go on with your bad self lol.

What setbacks or trials have you had to overcome as a young man in your own life?
Deaths and relationships.
You’re already learning about the rest of life already…

What do you attribute to your drive as an artist?
I study music day and night not just hiphop but music ...I'm a big indie rock fan ...and that helps me be versatile.

In what ways are you promoting your work and getting it noticed to the public?

Any way possible on the internet and in real life...anyone willing to listen or share my music is how I spread new sounds into people's ears.

How do You define “Success”?

Success is when I can sleep at night without waking up thinking ...dang there's still 7 billion more people out here who hasn't heard my music yet.

Love it lol

Many doors can close in your face with hopeful encounters not believing in your cause. In your own way how do you overcome stress and dissapointments in music and outside of it?

I just keep working ...I like to say if all the Gatorade sells out then find your own ingredients and make it happen yourself. Very Good advice!

What do people meeting you for the first time get right or misinterpret about you?
A lot of people think I think I'm too good to talk to them but they always end up finding out how cool and humble I am.
What?!? they don’t know. You’re soooo like stuck up! =P lol j/k. Take it from me you’re a smart and driven young man ready to take the world over. I can tell you’re humble just from how anxious you were to have people see our 1-on-1. Gracious for this opportunity.

Do you feel rap music has achieved a certain stigma or bad-listing? If so, what should change about it or how would you change it as an upcoming Artist?
The bad-listing comes from people who dread change and hate experimenting with new sounds or even crossing over to a sub-genre or fusing genres..... People are afraid of what they don’t understand and in hip-hop when someone doesn't understand it they over-look it or hate it.
Appreciate you for explaining this so candidly for all our upcomers!

What has been the hardest realizations you had to come to grips with when pursuing this career in music? Were you naive to the reality, not expecting it, or did it hit you like a ton of bricks?

The hardest thing is knowing that there's so much to learn but not so much time to learn it. I always knew it but it just hit me though and it kind of got me down for a few days but then I maned up and got back to work and studying the game.
It can be overwhelming…even though I’m not in the music scene I understand what you were feeling. It can translate into any field of interest as well. All you can do is what you can and the best will come. As people I think we try to do too much, more than what we can handle or take it, and then we crash and burn. One of my favorite quotes is, I am not everyone, but I am someone. I can’t do everything but I can do something.

Freestyle battles and Cyphers are the talk of the town in the rap game because that’s where much of your street cred can come from, I presume. Have you participated in any battles or cyphers?
At school I have lots of cyphers with my in school clique ...shout out to my home boy Q and John and outside of school me and musicforthedef do a lot of cyhpers ..I've never battled though because I'm not that much of a battle rapper.

What do you like or dislike about this form of rhyme skill?

There's no limit to what you can say and the reactions from the crowd are crazy and the vibe is always dope.

OK we’re OFFICIALLY done with the grill session lol. Let’s chill now and let’s talk about you.

What were your favorite hobbies or pastimes when you were younger?
My favorite hobby was music when I was younger but now It’s kind of my passion, job and responsibility but now a days I look into Photography , Art and Thrifting .

This is what can easily be looked over… a hobby turned passion into a “job” is the essence of a person’s life. Why not get paid to do what you love. If music is what rules you then it’s ordained to be your destiny, period. I like photography too. It aint too shabby neither ;)

With all the amazing colors of the spectrum which color(s) are your favorite?
Most people don't know this but my favorite color is purple.

Ha! And you trusted to reveal this special fact about yourself right here with me! I’m honored. For some reason I believed purple would be your color. You looked like a purplish kind of guy lol. It’s a royal color anyways. It must’ve been instinctual that I’m using purple as the font too…interesting.

More than ever I’ve become more interested in animals. Do you have any pets?

My mom is allergic to pets, so I've never been able to keep a pet but when I do they usually last a week and then they..... well you know lol

Oh no! What’s going on Mr. Hiri?!? Why on earth would these animals be leaving the world so quickly in your care?

What’s your favorite food?
My favorite food is pizza ...I love it ...I will never get tired of it lol

For the guy that microwaves! (smh)

Pizza, American staple.

Do you know how to cook?
I'm learning how to cook but I know a little something ...mostly with a microwave though lol

In my best Kel voice from Good Burger… Uh, nooo! Don’t even try to use the ‘ microwave ‘ as your so-called method for ‘cooking’lol. It has to be on a stove, with seasonings, a flame or electronic heat. But that’s good you’re learning. Gotta take care of yourself alone one day, until you find your other half. But you still need to be able to cook for her too!

Describe your individual style to us. What are your “go-to” apparel choices as yourself and when you’re HiriSkyWalker the Artist? Any brand names you're particularly drawn to?

I love og jordans ...not retros , timbs , yeezy's , Adidas... I wear golden rd, I shop in H&M and Pac Sun...Hot Topic ...also I love thrifting, it's a great time.
ha! you know what you like. But ya’ll city slickers just have to walk outside your door and there you are in front of a clothing store within the city. Not sure how Rochester is set up if the subway is the main transportation or not but I’ve been to NY and know about the trains. I’ll tell you the truth I’ve never shopped in H&M. I’ve heard of PAC Sun but the same applies with that too. One things for sure, you have a brand-image and want to go out in style ;)

Which Artists and music are currently rotating on your playlist?
Ken Rebel, Kanye, Travis Scott, Pro Era, Tde, Twin Sister, Little Dragon, Nia Keturah, Cerebral Ballzy, The Underachievers, Bakers Club and a lot more but the list would go on.

Awesome. I need to check these artist’s out.

Cerebral Ballzy

Bakers Club

What characteristics can you appreciate and value strongly in a love interest?
A dope personality, not simple-minded, a good dresser, someone with a cute smile and someone I can act ignorant with in the mall lol and take dope pictures with.
ha! I love how you just said, a dope personality! It could have some prospects worried with something high to live up to but surprisingly it’s rather simple & uncomplicated. Not to make you look super young but your description with someone I can act ignorant with in the mall and take dope pictures with, is a cute and age-appropriate sensibility showing that you’re still a sharp teen but you’re not trying to be more ahead of your time than necessary. I'm also sensing some romance in there ;)

Are you checking out the scene or have a cute girl holding it down?
I'm playing the field but it’s almost time to catch. I just gotta see how things shape out in a couple weeks.

Be on the look-out girlies. Cute guy alert *sirens* lol

Besides the fellas out here, your fan based extends to the ladies, and rightfully so! What do you consider a fun date to be?
Movies are a big thing for me and it’s basically the only thing to do in Rochester. I like taking pictures, chilling at home or going out to eat . But I also like adventure landing lol even though some people may say I’m too old for it.

Oh really?!? Either I’m getting too old or need to get out more lol You’re gonna have to get me hip on this one. What exactly is “adventure landing”?

Which US states, country, or countries would you love to visit?
Cali and I wanna go to Paris and also Ethiopia.

Oui Oui J Going back to Cali, to Cali, to Cali but in your case, wants to go to Cali for the first time- west coast babyyy lol.

What’s your favorite word in the dictionary or made-up from tv or cartoons?
Sick, Dope , Ill, Def , Cray, Ignant (ignorant ) and that's basically it besides rachet.

Ratchet- We’ve all heard the trendy word by now but in the most pg-rated version describe in your own words what ‘ratchet’ means.
Ratchet as in ghetto or in many cases someone who just don't care...and acts like a bird, if you know what that means lol.
Thanks for clarifying lol.Use your imagination for a moment. If you can be any superhero, have any superpower, or be any animal or inanimate object tell us all about it.
I'd be a lion because they just resemble everything I am...and I also think they'd be dope pets if they started to be domesticated.

So does that include eating your food raw & still alive lol kiddin. Boy the day a ‘lion’ becomes a domestic cat will be the day. Don’t go all Siegfried and Roy on me and think it can be done neither.

If you have any hidden talents share them with us :)
I'm a great writer...I write poems and will have some stuff published and some spoken word vids recorded one day.

Oh yea, and make sure you let me know so I can post, post, post!

All guys like speed and fast cars. If you can be any car, which one best describes your personality: Hiri the Artist and Hiri the everyday guy?
I'd be a Bentley, I always thought they were dope and it would describe my artist personality.

Given the chance any actor or actress could portray the story of your life who could accurately do your life story justice?
Any random kid who can relate to my situation but they have to be dark skinned and have dreads like me lol.

Maybe we should do a casting call for all dread and dark chocolate skin pronto to studio set Hiri#1

Let’s say you have the honor of meeting the current President Barack Obama and his family. What would you want to say to him? And perform if asked?

It depends on if he approached me first. Me and my crew would love to perform for him.

Wow, I never expected such an answer. You got some balls kid. What particular song would you choose to perform, any idea?

I'd perform his new song called, 'In The Sky' off of me and my group's album...b/c the first verse is me on my revolutionary thing/hippie thing and I want him and the gov't to know how I feel.
More power to you.

If you can change anything about your life what would you change and why?

Nothing, I believe in fate and everything happens for a reason so even all the bad things and non-music related things happened so I could be where I am today and I take pride in that.

This is important for me to ask you since nothing in life is guaranteed and anything can happen. If there comes a time when pursuing this path can no longer continue for whatever reason,

What other directions can you securely continue and pursue careers? It’s always important to know where all your skills and talents lie in order to have several back-up plans.
I'm still going to do music ... I'm going to either go to college for a course to help me create my own label , or go simple and become a music teacher. But I will always do music or do something music related.

Great. Get that education boy!

Name 2 things you must do on your bucket list.
Vans Warped Tour and Kilo Kish

www.KiloKish.com

www.VansWarpedTour.com

What quote or mantra guides you through the most difficult times and helps you to stay grounded and secure in the good times?
"Pain is weakness leaving the body " " difficult takes a day , impossible takes a week "

Who do you credit for your discovery for pushing you to pursue your dreams?
Everyone who supports and more importantly my dad . Good ol’ Pops ;)

What legacy do you wish to leave when the last chapter of HiriSkyWalker’s life story comes to an end?

I wanna let people know that the outcast underdogs will and always will have a chance. I wanna be remember for good music, style, and the fact that I'm a stand-up guy.
This Is 2013 The Year of the Underdog!

For your peers out here trying to achieve the same as you what tips or advice would you like to share with them?
Work not only hard but smart and you have to want to succeed as bad as you have to breathe.

This year 2013 my major goal I will complete is_____.

I will haved produced for someone signed and a successful album release.

And of course, where can fans and newbies learning about your for the first time keep up with the Latest & Greatest?
http://www.Defmovementmusic.tumblr.com and http://www.mtv.com/artists/ourtalenttakingover

OTHER FEATURE SPOTLIGHT: http://houseofaura.com/new-music-ourtalenttakingover-change-prod-hiriskywalker/

Listen to more from TalentTakingOver @

https://soundcloud.com/ourtalenttakingover https://www.youtube.com/MusicForTheDef

Please come join P.O.E.T Radio with Enigmatic Mahogany and Nancy Happyheart Sharrar for Inspirational XpressionZ to share your poetry or just listen in! Be inspired, encouraged, motivated, and uplifted. See u there!
Talkshoe.com or call in (724)444-7444 ID 93155# on Sundays from 7PM-9PM CST

Skeet The Lyricist

2013-01-18T18:50:00.000-05:00

Hello Kool World! Serenada'sPen Back Again with the Future Artists of this Generation in a blaze of Glory showing you why they deserve the titles Big Shots & Heavy Weights in their fields of Artistry. What we have is another hit music maker here to entertain us once more with mad rhymes and the hip-hop beats of our time. Hanging 10 with the Ngyeuing Crew: Qaewin & Young Drastic, SKEET THE LYRICIST continues the searing hot rhythmic run these young cats have formed together. The similarities are wild, but the differences are masterful with his own special quality of taking powerful intros to climatic epic scenes in movies to revel in full power as he throws his messages to us. Extremely motivating and inspiring Skeet will empower you as he delivers his own originality, so take a seat with us as we discuss his masterful mind-scape, and welcome him as our Artist on the Rise in the Bloggerview sessions.

So here we are at the round table Askia. We have covered two of your group mates and now it's your turn to tell your story and spill the goods on all the makings of you :)

Free EPK from ReverbNation.com

I love names that literally give complete individuality and Askia Shareef does just that ;) And it has me wondering about the origins. Is there a cultural, religious significance meaning behind it?

Muhammad Ture "Askia The Great"

Yes, I was named after the Songhai emperor Askia the great who was a Muslim. I was also born a Muslim and my middle name is Muhammad. I think my name is as unique as I am.

I love names that no one else has. It's as if at birth you were destined to be your own person. There's something precious and meaningful about the fact no one is just like you.
Askia means, "Forceful one" and I believe it suits you just fine. A Force of nature to tear up the place.

When is your born day?

February 23 1995, PISCES!
Absolute Creative Genius!

Where can you direct us to your beginnings?

I was born and raised in Indianapolis and lived on 36th street downtown for eight years. Right around the corner of the Pepsi Colosseum.
Should I or should I not ask, Pepsi or Coke? lol

Do you still live there?

No, I moved away 4 years ago for better opportunities.

What memories do you have from your childhood growing up there?

One of my favorite memories was putting up our basketball court and the whole neighborhood would come over to play basketball till the sun went down and chill.

It’s customary to believe in the possibility of music playing an integral role in your upbringing. Did you come from a musically-inclined family or is it something you discovered yourself?

Definitely, My mom is a singer and has performed many times while my dad introduced me into African drumming and music. All my siblings played instruments and were in choir at some point.

Does your family support your aspirations or do they want you to do something else?

My family has been behind me since I started but they also want me to focus more on school and my future career to have several options rather than on my music.

Learn how to get a song on itunes at ReverbNation.com

Most definitely! And that is to be expected for your security in life. Real Love.

What was the defining moment for you that made you realize this is the path that you want to lead your life?

I believe it isn't just one defining moment but all my life experiences and the influence of music. The moment I dedicated myself is when my song
“Sky High”
got through to my listeners and it felt great.

Take us back to the first time you ever performed in front of anyone, whether it’s standing in front of a mirror, recording yourself, one person, or a group of people.

What song did you choose and what did it feel like?

The first time I ever performed in front of anyone was in my junior English class. I had to make a rap about the pre-amble for the constitution. I wrote the whole verse the night before at midnight to Jay-Z's dead president's beat. When my time came my heart was beating so fast and my hand was shaking. When I spit my verse I didn't make any eye contact with anyone and finished a little too early. I felt so awkward but by the end of the experience everyone liked it and told me I was good.

Wow I feel so old now! lol I remember the Pre-amble very well matter of fact. It was 5th grade when I had to recite the passage to my teacher. "We The People, in order to form a more perfect union..." ;) The kool thing about it is we learned it based on a song. School House Rock was our learning tool! I'm not sure if it was exactly that program but it was some listen n' sing tape. It worked if I still remember it now. But that's Fly with Jay Z's Dead Pres.

Are you signed to a label or do you have your own?

I am not signed to a label. I am currently looking into creating a label with the local rappers I network with to grow and support each other.
I don't trust labels but I trust my closest friends.

Have you auditioned for any talent shows or programs such as America’s Got Talent or American Idol?

I have never auditioned for any TV shows but I might audition in the future.
Yea I feel you. It's an option. Not the only one, but a possibility. It definitely will prepare you and push you to do your very best.

Do you have an agent booking shows or finding gigs for you?

Not professionally, I have a few close friends who have connections to gigs, etc..I will start performing next year.

Can't wait! ;)

Even though I’ve gotten acquainted with you over time, for our viewers explain the connection with you, Qaewin, and Young Drastic.

I, along with LMD(Justin), were spamming online when we came across Qaewin. We introduced ourselves and wanted to do some collaborations. Through Qaewin I met Young Drastic who I plan on collaborating with in the future

and may be on “The Experiment” (demo).

Free Music Player for Myspace at ReverbNation.com

Available Above! Listen to Skeet The Lyricist The Experiment

What sets your lyrical trademark a part from them and any other rap artist out here?

The very essence of my music is different. My rhyme scheme is odd and my song themes are just as much different. I like more than “rap” beats and will hop on anything from rock, to dub-step, to reggae. My music stems from myself and I've always been different.

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It's absolutely amazing how everyone I'm meeting has something in common. One way or another. What are the chances your interests are also with Dubstep & Reggae, as well as Rock. The next guest after you, Andrew Werd2jah is literally encompassed in this musical selection! Pretty Rad.

I love the introduction to the intro of Humanity's Obituary it’s full of masculine energy. It’s very strong, passionate, empowering, and motivating.

Free Electronic Press Kits template from ReverbNation.com

What inspired you about this caption to use as part
of one of your tracks?

When I heard the quote, it inspired my aspirations so I thought, why WOULDN’T IT inspire others? The truth and emotion within the clip inspired me to use it. I felt I needed to share it.
And I'm so glad you did. It's so Powerful and it rises a fire inside. It makes you want to make a change and do something bigger than yourself in the world.
" Rise to Action"

Are you drawn to theatrical, dramatic elements from movies?

Definitely, My favorite themes to use are opposites or good vs. evil, heroes, and tragedies. If I make something a certain way its normally for a reason or has a deeper meaning so watch out for character names, etc. :p

Tell us about a time, and God knows we all have one, where something embarrassing happened and you wished it never happened lol.

Ummm..my birth? O_0 just kidding, I’m not sure because I make any situation less awkward but there is that moment when you fart in class.
Yea you better be kidding! Such a teenager (melodramatic lol) hahaha! But you just told the REAL truth. Who hasn't let it out in some weird location and pray it's a "silent" one! Don't you hate it when it happens when something catches you off guard and you just burst out laughing?!? Well it happens lmao!

What are your thoughts about mainstream “Pop” music and what the contenders from your age group are doing with music – hip-hop?

I necessarily don't listen to the radio or this mainstream “Pop” much but I feel like it’s getting worse. Hip-hop wise I feel like more people are waking up to underground rappers and themes more lately. I believe this mainstream “trend” is starting to fade out.
And it's about time...I'm sure many artists who feel their music is under-appreciated can have a more positive outlook for their work being noticed.

Your twitter name is @SKEETheLyricist, which I find cute and marketable. Do you consider yourself a poet that can rhyme or an Artist with the gift of lyrical ability?

I consider myself an artist with the gift of lyricism ...who sometimes sounds like a poet, lol. I prefer to be referred to as an artist but I do not want any specific label.

And to add further is SKEETheLyricist your Artist name or another alias to represent you as Askia?

Skeet The Lyricist or S.T.L simply combined my nickname with my profession. It was supposed to be a temporary name until I could find a better one, but i'ts sticking for now. XD
It's stuck on you like glue. Made just for you.

For anyone who has never listened to your music, how would you describe your lyricism in 5 words?

Refreshing, poetic, conscious, thought provoking, relatable.....indescribable..
I love how you decided 1 more could give the effect you wanted lol. I'm starting to think I asked a pitch for a sexy new cologne! For some reason I just had a random visual of Brad Pitt in the commercial for Chanel 5 with ....indescribable

I’m listening Askia, and without a doubt you remind me of Wale and Kanye West. This is without any comparison to take away from your fire, so readers, remember when I mention Artist similarities I’m only mentioning the influences that are in my guests’ vocals & tonal qualities. We’re inspired by our peers and without a doubt we will pick up their styles. What have listeners compared you to?

I have been compared to Lupe fiasco the most, B.o.B, Wale and Kid Cudi. I take it flattering unless I don't like whoever they said I sound like.

Sell music on itunes at ReverbNation.com

In what ways do you put yourself and your music out there for people to get on to it?

Anyway I can, spamming online, whoring my music around to people at school, passing out CD's, etc. Unfortunately it’s not that efficient so I’ll find new ways to spread my crew's name.
Just the straight hustle of it all. It's a shame how "spam" created this bad reputation. No one can tell it a part from authentic messages. It may seem like your manual method is not as productive but it is effective. You gotta do what you gotta do when you have only what you got. Take it from Island Def Jam recording Artist Bobby Washington. He is basically a self-made Entrepreneur. It takes alot more back breaking work but if you want to achieve the recognition it can be done. Doesn't hurt to have some friends who can connect you to the best much quicker though.

What type of music do you like to listen to?

Just about everything except country music. Ironically I rarely listen to rap, I often find myself listening to chill step or instrumentals.
That's neat. Can you tell us what "Chill Step" is exactly?

I’ve always known about free-style battles but the past year or so from watching BET Awards, The “Cypher” or “Cypher” gave a new name to Free-style battling. Have you been in any cyphers?

No, But i'm currently talking to an artist who wants me to join his cypher…

Is there a difference between the traditional free-style battle and a cypher or is it all the same?

I think there is a difference. Most CYPHERS (not battles) used to be freestyled but recently more people are beginning to write for cyphers. I think freestyle battles are more hostile than cyphers so prepare to be booty hurt. lol
Lmao! Watch yo asses everyone!

Rap Artists, Singers, or Musicians can perform solo or have a group to back them up. Do you consider yourself a solo act or are you part of a group?

I feel like a solo artist because I believe my music stems from my spirit and no one can replicate that. Though I feel I have a team who I always carry and will always carry me. I'm open to collaborations always but I prefer singles.

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We all know the basic genres of music: Pop, Rock, Country, R&B, Soul, Gospel, Alternative, etc. Let me give you the opportunity for the first time ever to tell the world your own self-termed name of your style of music.

OOOooo..that's a hard one. But I would call it Spoken Rap...a mixture between spoken word and rap or even Feel Hop lol.
I Love it! Good Job. You never know in your future there will be a new style out there with you to credit for it.

Now get ready for this next one…

With everything you can possibly have: location, staging, production, live music, lighting, Fashion/Style, Props, and any collaborations with any artist(s) in the whole world, and song choice whether it’s already made or one you’ve created;

What is your “Dream” performance?

My dream performance would be a collaboration between me, kid Cudi, and Lupe live on stage, on line, EVERYWHERE! We would just be pouring our hearts out to the world and the masses would love back! We would probably be in Cali, sun down, thousands of camera lights flashing.
That's dope 4real.

Who do you credit for discovering your talent and encouraging you to pursue your dreams?

Myself, I wrote, started writing, and discovered I had talent even when everyone else told me I sucked. Also my partner LMD because he's helped me access that emotional part of my music that’s so important.

Which is your favorite song that you know you wouldn’t mind performing over and over again for a show?

Right now I would have to say “Sky High” OR “Brown baby”.

Learn how to get a song on itunes at ReverbNation.com

There are plenty of challenges that come with developing one’s own name and brand. It takes time; patience, determination, and persistence to make it all come together. As an aspiring rap artist you’re faced with the dilemma of other aspiring rap artists wanting the same acknowledgment and attention as you. Have you experienced any animosity or belittlement from your contemporaries during this challenging time for you?

Constantly, everyone wants to be a rapper but not everyone can. I'm still finding and developing who I am as an artist and my persona. IT’S hard knowing where to start but I can only better understand myself as a person through time.

You have inner self introspection.
Wise for a young buck ;)
Just when you think you reached a high point you realize you have many more steps to climb. How do you overcome disappointment, doubt, negativity, i.e.? In what ways do you pull yourself out of it or away from it?

As soon as a door closes another one opens. Facing disappointment is hard but if I can i' ll write about it or talk about it to a friend. If I’m in doubt about something I try to fix it or reassure myself, though sometimes I just let nature handle that for me. :)

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In your own words how do you define “success” and what it means to be “driven”, the passion to go after one’s dream in your generation?

" I feel like success in our society focuses too much on money and not enough on happiness, or rather that money is happiness. Being successful to me is doing what I love for a living, being both physically and spiritually healthy, and having a family. I think success is based on someone’s personal mission so success isn't the same for everybody. So if you want these things you'll automatically be driven."

Good Point to make. I think you found life's truth already! Better to know now than later when so much time has passed.

Who is your all-time favorite Rap Artist hands down that you play their albums more than any other?

Lately I've had Kendrick Lamar on nonstop replay. My favorite hands down is Lupe but I most likely play Kid Cudi more than both of them.

What pressures or hardships do you face every day in your world outside of what you do musically?

Senior at a mainly all white school...hard, lol. The stress of being able to get into a good college or being accepted by everyone. Money. Being good enough for your family/friends and the never ending struggles with that forbidden R word...RELATIONSHIPS...ahhh!
Well Imma tell you the complicated "R" word never changes! But you will find Ms. Right when it's supposed to happen lol. Depending on your experiences and how you learn from them can make it better ;) I can relate to you very much. Equally went to a predominately Caucasian school and lived in a suburb with not much diversity until now. The good thing is the rough stuff of those years have finally come to an end and now you can thrive as your own in the world. The challenges don't stop of course, but it's going to be on an adult level. You'll learn over time that the best you can give is what comes best by you. Can't please everyone and honestly you don't want to. Take it from me lol. When I was where you are I didn't know which college to go to, but of course needed to pursue higher education. SCAD is a major art school but quite expensive. There's no way I could afford it so it was scratched off my list. But I went to West Georgia and continued my art studies until I went on to learn Fashion Design. So you can always take a local, community college, and aim for a bigger or more prominent school later. The first 2 years are completing core classes anyways. Math, English, Science, etc. And going undeclared can help if you're unsure which major to go into- try out different options and see.

We hear all the time that the music industry is changing or not in a good place. What is your perception from the outside looking in? Is there anything you want to change about it?
I believe it’s not the music but the labels, industry, CEO's, etc. If you want good music you can find it but you have to look. I want to change a lot about it, from what’s played on the radio to what new musicians like me try to rap about because our inspirations guide us sometimes.

Do you have any connections to anyone in the music industry?

Yes but I might not be aware of it. I have friends who has cousins and so on who know big names. I know people with studios/producers and other music related positions. It’s just a matter of networking.
Very true! I may know some heavy hitters & have no clue. Twitter definitely allows it to be a major possibility. The minute this blog was created my following extended. Flattering to say the least, but it's all about like minds thinking alike and wanting to be influenced. Plus it's competition.

"Rap Artist" and "Hip-Hop recording Artist" are used interchangeably. When you address yourself as Skeet The Lyricist how do you see yourself?

A see myself as a hip-hop artist. My perception is that Hip-Hop is a culture not a genre but rap is simply one piece of the pie. I’m a part of the music movement that's going on right now in our generation.

There is a process in creating each and every song you make. Which parts do you like the most: Writing, Making the music, recording, or performing it live?

The greatest pleasure to me is recording the music. Just chilling with some friends clowning in the studio gives every song I make its own memory.

What can you say about yourself that people may misunderstand before really getting to know you?

THAT IM OPEN TO NEW PEOPLE AND MY MUSIC ISNT TYPICAL MAINSTREAME RAP. People tend to cut me off before giving me a chance, but that makes me strive even harder.

As a “kid”, cuz I know you still have a few years before reaching “legal manhood” what were your pastimes or

childhood activities?

I was that kid who loved to read. I spent most of my time outside hooping with some friends or my brothers. I didn't listen to rap on my own time.

In school are you part of the “in-crowd, the floater, or the off-beat, nerdy” group?

Ha, i'm most likely the floater. Most of my best friends come from different “labels” so i'm kinda in everything if that makes sense. When I was younger I was considered the offbeat and nerdy.
I'm more offbeat now...

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Did you play any instruments in band or sing in your church choir?

Yes I played trombone for several years and I still do African drumming.

Awesome! Trombone player :) I gotta listen to ya.

What’s your favorite TV show?
I don't watch much TV but when I do it’s “The Office” or maybe a classic like Seinfeld.

What’s your favorite food?

I <3 ALL FOODS EQUALLY...no discrimination. lol
Soooo with ya on that 1! I Loovvvve food. Big Time Foodie.

What’s your favorite color?

Red, All I see is red now. XD
Silly!

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Describe your own personal style compared to your “Artist look” if you have one.

I'm currently still developing my artist look but it will reflect my personal style very much because I'm the only thing I want to portray.

Have you been to another country and If you can travel to any country in the world where would you go and why?

Unfortunately, I've never been off the mainland but If I could go to any country it'd be South Africa (the republic) for the natural scenery and to experience the culture!

What characteristics do you seek out in a potential partner?

I'm not too pickkyyyy, but she has to support my aspirations and have a good heart. A smart girl has always been more attractive to me than one whose not. The number one possibility is some kind of musical abilities.

For all the females out here—Are you single ready to mingle or shacked up lol?

IM OUT HERE MINGLING IF that's a word, lol. Need someone to hold me down :)

Yea that's what they all say! lol You have time...

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Name an animal in the wild that fascinates you.

Pandas and Lions 24/7...
You know what...I have grown to love animals even more this past year. I would love to see pandas up close. Guessing Africa is the trip to go on!

Which do you prefer: Planes, Trains, or Automobiles?

Never been on a plain but I bet i'll like it since...I’M FLY! Just kidding, i’ll have to say automobiles because trains can get overly crowded.
So Fly! So High! So Fly! lol. 1 day you're going to be a jetsetter and flying will be like walking.

Let’s be real for a moment. Nothing in life is guaranteed and if you do achieve the success you’re seeking and an incident causes it to end, what other options do you have lined up?

I’ll be studying music business so I can own my own music studio. if it doesn't work out for me, I’ll just support other talent in my studio.
Good Option.

If you can have 1 super power what would it be and why this particular one?

If I can’t have the power to have all powers, it would be the power of time traveling! I could do whatever I wanted whenever and no one would know.
Using a given power for Trouble lol. I should've known. Doing all kinds of rearranging....

Take us on a journey in a day of your life. In a jot list what are your top priorities every day that cannot be skipped?

1.Breakfast

2.Business

3.Music

What 3 things can you absolutely not leave home without?

I can’t leave home without my phone, my hoodie, and my confidence! Without those all hope is lost.
haha..love the hoodie lol! Confidence, most def.

If you had the power to change anything about your life or the world what would it be and why do you think changing it will make a difference?

I would change the importance and structure of money. I think most of the world’s problem stems from money and peoples' greed. An unequal system based on money is likely to produce greedy tyrants.
Wow, maybe you should run for office...

If you meet our current President Barack Obama face-to-face what will you say to him?

You know what grinds my gears…lol, I would say he needs to do more to better African American communities as well as all the others.
Alrighty then. Speak your mind fellow American citizen.

What advice that is “tried & true” can you offer your peers equally trying to pursue the same dreams as you, if you have any?

Simply...be yourself.

I’ve said it once and will say it again. Your work is fire! I know I’m not the only person wanting to interview you ;-) What is it about my interview style that made you agree to do it?

Definitely your ability to make artist open up as a person and give their personas a since of identity. Also your're professional.

What motto, quote, or mantra motivates and uplifts you through all trials and tough situations?

God never puts anything on our souls we're not strong enough to bear.

What legacy do you wish to leave behind when the last chapter of your life comes to a close?

A legacy of change, beautiful music, and success.

How can newbies learning about you for the first time keep up with the Latest & Greatest?

My official page on reverbnation, but for the latest updates they can like my facebook page or follow me on twitter at @SKEEThelyricist.
My YouTube name is askiaist.

There you have it Readers! This completes our Awesome segment with one of the Leading rising stars of our time, Skeet the Lyricist. You were a delight to chat with Askia and I believe, just like your crew, you will be a major contender in the music world and in all directions your pursue in your journey. Much Promise 4-sho! Much Success to you & Keep making those smashing tracks. 1 <3

Interviewing Top Music Artists!

Segments you don't want to miss.

Stay Tuned For The Next Spotlight.

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Poets, Lyricists, Spoken Word Dynamites

Catch this Lively Show featuring Enigmatic Mahogany

Saturday Jan 12! SPECIAL APPEARANCE & Interview with Enigmatic Mahogany.

TUNE in @ 9m on THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT

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Werd2Jah

2013-01-09T14:31:00.000-05:00

Hello Kool World! Here's your girl Serenada'sPen

reppin from A-town exposing the hidden treasures of the completely unknown. What we have here on our journey is a Jamaican American cat living in my neck of the woods! Andrew Werd2Jah is the next latest addition to our line-up as an Emcee with a zest for mixing the Island sounds of Reggae with the zip-lining mechanized Dubstep to create a new form of funky bounce off the wall club hoppers! He’ll take you on an interesting run with his fast-talking Patois -infused lyrics mixed with the hottest beats of the day. Enjoy this ride because you’re going to receive the real cultural flavor that emphasizes this guy’s dreads, his rasta hats, and his own swag that is entirely his own. Take note you may want to book the DJ Artist on the Rise for your next Big Bash. He’s already setting the Roof on Fire Internationally ;) Werd.

Very nice to meet you Andrew & continue our talk! How are you luv?
I'm doing well this evening, respek for the link up

Can you tell me a little about yourself? Do you have an artistic background?
Well I am a mc/host. I MC for dubstep shows/raves and also hip hop, grime, drum and bass, and reggae. I’ve also been over to the UK and toured a few years back. I have a lot of stuff posted throughout the web, feel free to use and reference any of them. Here is my fanpage as well: www.facebook.com/werd2jah2

My little brother is an artist as well https://plus.google.com/104924932372425359149#104924932372425359149/posts

Where are you originally from? Atlanta, Georgia

Do you still live there presently? I do still live there, more as a home base though. I’m always traveling.

What day is your own special holiday? April 23, 1985

What is your artist name and how did it become your identity?
Well firstly my name is Andrew or Drew, secondly as an artist the 2 of the things I strive for is spiritual peace and meditations through lyrics, hence the blend of "drew" backwards to spell "werd" and the reference "2jaH".
Woah! Profound. I get it! Werd 2 Jah meaning Word to Jahova! I know this has nothing to do with it but it’s like Vanilla Ice’s Word to yo Motha. Mad Respect. Hailing to a higher being.This is already telling me you’re rich in my mind & spirit J

Did you come from average or well-to-do beginnings?
My parents both came to this country from Jamaica seeking a better life for their children. I grew up in a rough area on the southwest side of Atlanta (swats) then moved to the suburbs when I was in middle school. I still went to school in the swats, and even though the area I stayed in was middle to upper middle class...my household was firmly grounded in reality to say the least. So you could say I've had a foot on both sides of the fence.
I think it’s important to have experiences in different surroundings in life. I know all about the middle to upper middle class since I live in the same area. You see the differences and compare your surroundings. Some peeps can’t come from a rough area into the suburbs without bringing it with them. They get into trouble and don’t know how to transition. You seem like the kind of guy who absorbs what’s around him and uses it to his advantage in a colorful way.

What memories can you share from growing up? Good/Bad

As a child I was taught to question everything; view life from an inquisitive mind. Being that I grew up in a predominately conservative upper middle class suburb, there were many times when I questioned the norms of this ''bubbled'' society, the racial tensions, and stereotypes that are within such a city. This lead me to stick out as a sore thumb, haha, but it definitely played a role in who I am today.

So you want to know how I know you’re reppin from my locale? Just by you saying “bubbled”. I love how I met you through our boi Jabrawn. We all know what it’s about. Kool World the place where we’re talking about is known from the peeps that reside there as living in a bubble or sheltered life. I know it all to well since I grew up in this area. It’s tough in my opinion as a black or “cultured” person to live here due to the lack of worldliness and open-mindedness. As you mentioned Andrew about “racial tensions” and stereotypes is very true. I was called a racial slur & had to find my way as a black female in the midst of Caucasians and respect from my own as well. Moved to this location back in ’89 so you know I spent a long a** time there! Lol. It’s definitely more diverse now but the “ignorance” about identity, religion, culture, race, and even gender still hangs like a residue or fog. Odd place, but the silver lining is the growing diversity and people who don’t categorize, are used to being around all kinds of individuals, and can accept it. But
don’t get me wrong if it wasn’t for these challenges, like yourself, standing out as a sore thumb, we wouldn’t be who we are today. Shaping us to handle the dumb sh*t and allowing us to appreciate our individual selves even more. I don’t regret it or would change my experiences for the world. We are lucky. We are stronger and wiser because of it than those who have never been through it. Never regret or hate how your life turns out Kool World. It molds you into a more rounded human-being who can withstand the foolishness and backward nonsense of the world.

Credit for musical beginnings has come from my past guest's home life with family members. What started your fascination or love for music to initially become a MC?
My first love for music came when I used to watch the drummers at church hammer away on their sets. I convinced my pops to buy me a set and I self-trained myself to old cassettes of many favorite reggae songs on how to keep a tempo and duplicate basic drum patterns. In middle school and high school I joined the school's concert band and for a while I was the percussion section! lol, my mother also has always had a love for percussion. She used to beat the nyabingi drums at some of the pocco churches round her area in Jamaica. My mother always encouraged my "rythm". Music took a brief backseat for a few years, but after my freshman year at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, a close friend of mines who goes by the name of Blaise B. encouraged me to get back into music, but this time...pick up a pen and pad. The rest is history.

That’s amazing! To be the percussion section is history making for real. Breaking the mold and changing the scenery. I mean for real, you’re the only person making up this entire section that comprises of numerous instrumental pieces than just drums! I’m proud of you to learn about this… (Hi-5) Bringing the Jamaican swing to this small town.

Rhythm is definitely an iconic word among natives of the islands. It’s in the lyrics of songs, in the dialog of conversation, part of your way of life—rhythm. I would love to listen to your mom play the nyabingi drums. I don’t think I’ve heard the sounds of it before.

Blaise B. is one of those influential people we meet in life that set the course for growth in what we do as people. Thank God he stepped in! There’s nothing like writing. Look at me! I’ve been doing it since I was 11-12 years old.

Does your family support your passion or want you to pursue another career?

At first my family was skeptical. They didn't know how serious I was about my music, but my affair with mistress music has never been a surprise to anyone. My family fully supports my musical ambitions, but they are some pragmatic people! So every now and again they supply me with enough fire of ambition to keep progressing forward or pursue something else.

For viewers in the US and around the world can you tell us What’s the difference between an MC and a DJ?
MC = master of ceremonies, host, or lyricist
DJ = disk jockey or guy/gal with a bunch of music lol.

Are you signed on a label or have your own?
Currently I am an unsigned artist. I've had releases in digital and vinyl formats on the following labels: SMOG, NU URBAN, SQNCE RECS, BADMAN DIGI, AIRTIGHT IMPRINT, DIRTY CURCUIT RECS, FILTHYDIGITAL, IRISH MOSS RECS, STUPID FLY, FOULPLAY RECS, CROCODILE DUBS, & DUBTERRAIN RECS.
Funky names! I’m intrigued just by their titles lol!

In your recollection when was your first moment in the spotlight to showcase?

I remember my first year really doing shows and performing. I was in Miami in 07-08. I linked up with some dubstep heads (Move'm ent.) (NOME, I.N.A.R. & Mr. Alvarez) and we would go to any and all dubstep nights. I eventually was allowed to get on the mic and started hosting shows. But the big moment was when the dj's who got me into the dubstep genre were booked for a show in town (skream & hatcha) and I was booked to host alongside their sets! It was an experience I'll never forget.
Definitely unforgettable J I bet. Hosting is a big deal. It can lead to other prospects and directions with your music!

A point of reference as Madame Hostess of my Bloggerviews lol I highly recommend linking up with my past Guest, Theron Steele aka THE HUMAN GLITCH. His passion in music is dubstep on the real. His backdrop to his robotic-style dance moves. Plus he was a contestant on this year’s America’s Got Talent. So he is the Real Deal Holyfield lol. Who knows both of you may know other cats and really grow with your strengths in this style of music ;-)

It’s been awhile ago but when we first met you introduced me to your world of music. It was a Friday night, prime time I presumed for a DJ to be giggin out, yet it wasn’t the case for you. We were chatting instead lol.

Haha yea.

Explain why we were chatting instead of you playing hype music at the latest event in A-town.

There are certain aspects to the business of music that I'm just not suited for. Add in the fact I constantly move around. It's hard for me to secure a footing in cities unless I've put in the ground work there. I'm getting to a point now in my career where I'm not as anxious to ''put in the work'' so to speak in every new town or city I visit or live in. I've never really started doing my music in Atlanta. So it's a bit challenging at times to get steady bookings in my hoe city.
Yea you're reppin A-town for sure dude! The HOE city. Gotta love it! lol I know you didn't mean this, but I can't let it slide cuz it's humorous. He really meant "home" everyone! Atlanta has plenty of hot spots, and no pun intended.

Interesting. If you didn’t gain your music roots from Atlanta, where are your musical origins from?
I started writing and performing in the city I went to college in, Peoria, IL. and Chicago, then I moved to Miami, FL and really started performing. I'm not sure. I'd have to say Chicago had the biggest influence in who Werd2jaH is as a lyricist and musician.

So tell me what a person who has never listened to your lyrics will expect to hear, in terms of topics or stories?
The topics I tend to comment on in my tunes are generally on the subject of my lack of tolerance for “mc’s/rappers” with no substance, corruption (all levels of it i.e. gov’t, society, etc.) My disdain for materialism, shallow and petty things put in place to distract the youth from bettering and uplifting themselves. The “uplift”ment of the youth, especially those of the historically oppressed, and generally me trying to wake up, and get my listeners to want more out of life than what they may settle for.
Pretty heavy material to cover. I’m sure it’s respected by listeners to have an Artist, and in your case a DJ & Host emphasize these subjects with his style of music. The Party. But I must admit my ears are not accustomed to the razor-fast Reggae dialect you’re tossing in some of your beats and jams! I’m like, what is he saying?!? But that’s the Kool part about it! To spit rhymes so fast. That’s why Fast- Rhymer Rap Artists like Twista and Mystikal are liked so much.

A Teacher. In many ways you express the makings of a teacher AND the audience is your students! I believe there are many people just like you, but in the music world it’s about sells and what’s “hot”.

Do you think anyone would welcome your thoughts and strong opinions?
There are people out there who are being weighed down and who are feeling the negativity of the ignorant conditioning of alot of aspects of the mainstream. These people are the ones I reach out to and try to speak to. They are out there, nowadays in an over-saturated market of "art". It's hard for the artist to really connect to their demographic and vice versa, but progression is there.
We need more of “your kind” these days! Words of “Direction AND guidance”. A lot is going on in terms of how we live, and raise our children. All the things we, meaning you and I were warned about as kids, have gotten out of hand and has become a nightmare nowadays. Words are powerful so if it anyone wants to change the world for the better instead of constantly glorifying hood life then by all means, DO YOUR THING!

What setbacks have you experienced as someone trying to make a name for himself in the game?

When I was bringing in crowds and then being told I gotta pay to get in to PERFORM.

What?!?? Let me get this straight. You’re bringing in an audience but being told you must pay to perform for them. Forget the fact they’re paying to come see you…Backward Madness.

There are alot of parasitic characters in this scene. Usually they are in places of position. Alot of people have a romanticized version of what it means to throw a successful night, and when they find themselves in over their head, the talent and artists are usually the first to be on the chopping block.

It’s a sad reality but very important for aspiring Artists who want to pursue what you’re doing to know this. In the whole music industry through every person I meet there is the Cutthroat “ugly truth” in regard to making your dreams a reality. There is the authoritative “big man” or brute trying to stop the progression with his own control and power-hungry motive. But I say this whether people believe in God or not. If you just follow your heart, work hard, and keep the passion alive, your success will follow. Nothing can stop it. The road we travel is hard whether it’s music or any other field. As it is known, Life is not easy! But would our endeavors be worth it if it was handed to us? We learn the most about ourselves and appreciate our rewards much more when we have to go through hurdles and challenges to achieve it.

The only drawback is falling prey to inactivity and complacency. Despite all the closed doors and rejection for whatever reason, how do you fight against giving up and becoming lazy?
I do know what you mean. I’ve been counteracting it with collaborations and out of town bookings.
Staying active is truly the only solution! Don’t allow complacency and laziness to set in or it will be much harder to pull out of it.

You must have been a strong, passionate thinker growing up?
Yea I am definitely not a fan of ignorance or negativity. From a young age I’ve always took a stance against such things, no matter the age, colour, or race of it. I don’t like it and don’t back it.

I view you as a revolutionary lol. Or something like a Black panther in your hopes for bringing awareness to your listeners in all due respect.

I’m feeling you for real…actually you’re a positive influence and can be a role model for youngsters in the game. Do you hope to achieve this status as you continue further with your success?

I do. One of my goals when it comes to music is to help show others who are new to the scene where some of the less talked about pitfalls are and how to avoid them. I’m not big on compromising my foundation for a bit of exposure and/or success. I’d like for it to be known that if more stand firm then we can start to shift the way things are done in the industry.
You don’t have to tell me brotha! I’m looking at you and you’re not the societal norm. You stand proud representing your Jamaican roots. It can be a threat to those who are not open to receiving a black man’s background. You, me, and many others realize this. I’m rather sick of this “fear me” attitude that is not a hidden secret with other ethnicities around the world. People are still afraid or “uncertain” about people with brown skin. The ignorance has to stop. People need to view each other as “People” who make the choice to act good or bad.

I'm glad you brought this up for discussion Andrew. What can you tell us about the music industry that many of us got twisted or misinformed about?
What is considered and defined to be as art is slowly getting widdled away. You can recognize this trend and either work with the erosion of meaning, substance, and quality. Or you can move against the grain and not applaud or perpetuate the monetary whore-mongering.

Well Alrighty then J

How do you combat the naysayers and the haters out here who don't want you to succeed? How do you cope and turn it positive?

If there are haters and naysayers who are for the downfall of werd2jah...my response is none. I don't feed the fire.
Good

In your own words, what does "Success" mean to you in your world and what drives you to continue pursuing your goals during the dry spells?
"Success" to me means being able to do what it is I love and have a passion for it while ever growing and progressing in my art and craft. My motivation is not being able to do these things; it's sort of like saying what motivates you to breathe: the absence of air (art/passion).

What do want to achieve in terms of creating a decent, committed following?
I want my art to be timeless, country-less. I just don’t wanna be known in the states. I’ve also been more focused on my international fan-base as well. I want my music worldwide. I have a somewhat decent combined following in Europe, UK, and in parts of South American and Africa. I’ve only been (performed) to the UK.

Which countries would you love to visit or perform?

Japan, Brazil, Belgium, Croatia. There are alot of countries and cultures I'd love to experience.

You really are rocking the house, huh? I’m not surprised! The UK is very welcoming of Americans when it comes to the music. They know what they like!
Haha, I try. It can be a lot not having a booking agency or artist management. I could parlay a few of my “accomplishments” to bigger better things. I’m sure my time will come if it’s meant to be.
Oh yea, you know it.

Which part of the UK did you visit or perform?
I was all over. Leeds, Milton, Keynes, London, and Birmingham. I actually booked and wrangled up shows out there via FB and some forums, bought a ticket, and stayed with family out there. I was out there for a month and did 8 shows. I could’ve done more if I had stayed longer.
Wow, that’s what I’m talking about. See Kool World anything is possible. Don’t let doubts and excuses keep you from wanting to explore outside of what you know. Take it 1 step at a time, PLAN, and it can be done. You’ve heard it right here from Werd2Jah. No one is going to make your dreams happen for you. You must make it a reality for yourself. It really is that simple.

Earlier you mentioned going on tour. Exciting! What behind the scenes snippets can you share from your touring-mild or wild?

It can be, but it is not limited to being a glamorous lifestyle. Sleep deprivation can be a pesky mofo!! haha.
Yea, I know some peeps who cannot handle their sleep being interrupted or not getting enough of it. Grouchy & Grumpy. For you, the habit of performing with little sleep is the monster i.e. Gaga Fame Monster. I’m not a morning person but I’ve had to learn at a young age what “work” is all about, like many of us should, so getting up early was a force to be reckoned with. I don’t know if you feel this way but it seems easier to wake up early the older you get than it was when we were younger. I think I could be grouchy if I’m being pushed to move fast as I’m trying to wake up. But If I do a physical activity I will perk right up lol.

Have you worked with any well-known artists here and/or internationally?

Within the scene of dubstep I have performed and/or collabed with: MRK1, Skream, Mala, Coki, Hatcha, Nytpe, Joe Nice, Distal, Mr. Curtamos, Fused Forces, DZ, 12th Planet, Babylon System, Hijak, TMSV, Benga, and Kelly Dean.

Can you name some of the people you've worked with?

Lets see: Blaise B. Pro Blak, Ill Gordon, Dat Biz (Substance) Rhymin Artistik, Big O, Nome, I.N.A.R., Dos, Denzo, BunZero, Emu, Pawn, Fused Forces, Mr. Curtamos, Mk2 (mnvr), Dreadfoxx, Bukkha, BMC, Flatline, Dirty Dubsters, L Que. There are alot of people I've worked with through the years... I'm sure there are plenty more I'm forgetting.
I’m setting you up for your Acceptance Speech at the BET AWARDS lmao! Make your list handy folk.

Which music Artists inspire you and would be great to do a collab with?

At the moment I'm really feeling the production stylings of mala of digital mystikz, kromestar, radikal guru, and compa. as for other lyricists: damian marley, ward 21, santogold, m.i.a.

The Marley Brothers came to mind as I’m listening to your music. That’s Kool you want to work with 1 of the brothers! Santogold is an Artist who is standing out with my guests too. I need to catch on! M.I.A. Paper Planes lol. Yup, know about her for sure.

In what ways do you promote yourself?

Besides your standard net promotion, I occasionally give out freebie sample packs for producers to rifle thru for vocal sampling. I also travel frequently so I'm always handing out my music and info to all who wants it!

Great!

And now you have another platform to generate views ;) Pushing it out to my viewers & supporters will hopefully aid in your favor.

This is your chance to be "master of your own beat". We're familiar with the typical genres of music: Rock, R&B, Country, Pop, Alternative, and so forth. Create your own unique name for your own self-made genre of your style of mix-making music.

It would be called "future dread dub" and it would be all the "ahead of its time" elements of the early dub days, blended with the new advancements of the EDM culture, with a dash of seriously gifted mcees flowing over, raw, gritty, grimey!!
Dopeness! Feeling the passion ova hea! Love it.

My Absolute Fav Jam on his Set! Played this continuously during the making of this Bloggerview!

A Real Club Banger :)

Have you ever received a negative response from your audience? How did you make it through the situation?

Yea that's def happened. I've performed before an audience who just wasn't feeling any vocalist over the dubstep sets. You learn you can't please everyone, but in the game of numbers, if you're not pleasing anyone there are things to learn and grow from within that. Within this particular situation, I adjusted the amount of times I contributed to the sets I hosted and tweaked with my toasting elements until I was able to reach a common ground.
I like how you bounce back and not let it knock you down. Some peeps can’t handle the blow but there’s no way to improve if he/she cannot assess the situation. Yea it sucks to receive less than satisfactory results but it’s part of the growing process. The audience is the gauge. Just helps to know what their needs are to give them what they want for them to be satisfied.

If you've experienced it, what has been one of the kindest gestures a fan has done for you?

Repeating my lyrics back while I was performing them, and not just any lyrics, but those few bars that I wrote within the track that had a personal meaning behind it. That also touched another to have their own personal meaning. Hearing them recite it back with feeling behind it, is incomparable.

Ok take a deep breath! I'm done grilling you now lol. Let’s talk about Andrew, you, the guy! Can you hang just a lil bit longer with me?

Werd.

As a kid growing up in the A, what were your favorite childhood pastimes?

I enjoyed walking thru the parks in the city. Atlanta is a green and lush city compared to alot of other cities its size. Also swingin by abdullah the butchers for some good ol' soul food AND Chinese food...the sweet tea? c'mon!. Going to Magic Johnson movie theatre in Greenbriar Mall. Hitting up the block parties round the swats on a summer night. Ahh I love my city!
That’s the side of the A I like to hear about! Not the craziness we hear on the news these days. Just depressing. I remember going to Magic Johnson Theater with a friend once to see Queen of the Damned. It was a big deal since Aaliyah had lost her life recently in the plane crash and had the world stunned and broken. But it was nice inside. Many showrooms!

What’s your star sign? (Astrological sign for everyone out there who isn't deep into it like I am lol)

I am a Taurus.

Ha! What a coincidence. You’re the 2nd Taurus to grace my set. Jay Alexzander from the UK is also a Taurus but he sings. I hear that Tauruses, much like Brian McKnight, have voices that can make women melt.

What about you sir, can you belt a beautiful serenading tune AND throw your signature verses?
I’ve been known to hold a note and carry a tone. It’s something I tend to incorporate more into my music. I’m not really geared towards the “wooing of the ladies”, but few times I’ve sang live at shows…it had a positive affect on some of the female audience members haha. I don’t mind at all. I love my city! And all my ATL-iens.
Wait til the day they start throwing bras and panties on stage. Then the bravado will surely pour out then lmao! I always wonder where all that lingerie goes. Artists should bag it up and donate it to charity, with the exception of it being worn lol. Cuz we know what’s up.

For real though lol. What guy doesn’t feel his ego stroked when the ladies scream?! You know you like the panties and bras thrown at you!
Haha I can’t lie, it is pretty nice. I will admit I may have an effect on the ladies in the crowd, but I try to stay humble. Haha

When you're not performing and playing at gigs, which is work and play mixed together, what other hobbies do you like to engage in?

Well I do a bit of drawing and photography on the side. I am also very fascinated with science and the world we live in. Sometimes I go on nature walks, bird watching. I like to do a lil bit of wood working and carving as well.
Nice! Would love to see some of your carvings up close and personal J I remember the days of Nature Walks back in school. We called ourselves taking a “field trip” on one (anyplace that kept us from being indoors was great) We walked along a board walk, Nature trail. Of course we saw no animals even though deer, squirrel, hares, exist all out in the woods. But we came back to school and our assignment was to record in our journals what we saw—mostly plants and trees lol. Somehow I remember this memory from elementary school.

What's your favorite food?

CURRY GOAT Jamaican style, specifically, my mother's lol.

Curry is definitely a popular seasoning! My college roommate’s diet consisted of curry. And the weird thing is my mother has adapted it into our diet! It’s strong for us since we’re not used to it but we use it when we cook our pot roasts and neck bones. All my southerners out there know bout dem’ neck bones lol. I haven’t had goat before. Even though I’m a lil squeamish about it I’ll give it a try since I’m adventurous when it’s presented to me.

What color(s) are your favorite?

black, green, and gold!
Haha You’ve been hanging around our parts too long. Green is the main color but I swear all those colors represent a particular high school’s colors! Imma let you guess which one I’m talking about.

Everyone has their own unique style: I consider a plain tee, pants, and sandals a "look". If it represents and embodies who the person is then I can't judge but only recognize the individual for who they are. What does your personal "look" consist of most of the time? Are you fond of any particular designers or brands?

I despise brands, and I am in no way a fan of materialism. That said, my look usually consists of plain tees (white, black, blue, grey, earth tones) and cargo pants/shorts. Clothes to me are here to provide a function: not being naked lol.
Thanks for Clarifying that being naked is not providing a function lol!

What inspired your "style" change from your younger days to who you are now, besides trend and maturity? My style changed with my taste for music. When I was young and starting out I still was blind and consumed from the machine, now I am getting older and wiser, my eyes are open, and so have my taste and styles. What inspired me now is different from then.
.

Are you out here playing the field or settled with someone holding it down?

Single <3

What traits do you value the most in a potential partner?

Overstanding, secure with their feelings, affectionate, can cook! lol, patient and forgiving.

What's your favorite dance move?

di gully creepah!
You gotta show me how this one is done!

Pepper And Rufio

Do you have any pets?

Yes I have 2 cats, a male and female tabby. Their names are Princess and Rufio....yup just like from the movie "Hook" lol.

Aw! They are sooo cute. I noticed you had the cutest raven colored cat. "Pepper" Where is he?
Sadly he died a few years back. He was the best cat ever in life, in the world!
I'm sure you miss him, but he's in a better place. He had the Cutest Face :)

If you have any hidden talents you would like to share with us, by all means share your eccentricity with us!

I am a really good grill master/chef. I give some famously good massages. I can draw, paint. I am pretty handy with a nail and a hammer.
I aint mad atcha. Sexy. Cook, do the manly thang, and throw in some sensuality. Whoever got your love must feel very special!

The Wii had a long run as a very popular gaming system. Let's say you are chosen to create the next best game. What would the game be about, including: Setting, Plot, Goals, Good guys or bad guys, or just for the fun?

A racing game, cause I love and usually only play racing games. It would be a hybrid mix of Mario Kart, Blur, and Burnout 3, with a dash of Need for Speed Hot Pursuit.

Who is your favorite actor/actress and the best movie you've seen them in?

Jason Statham or Clive Owen: Transformer(s)/Children of Men

We hear ALL the time about JET-LIFE, living sky high in the Hollywood life. Which do you prefer to travel: Planes, Trains, or Automobiles?

Depends on my mood and destination. I love a good road trip every now and again, but flights can be so much faster. At the same time the hassle of boarding a plane looking as I do can nullify the convenience. Trains are kool if you're in another country.

I bet it must be tough to be scrutinized for your appearance. Imagine how it was post 9/11. Everyone who looked Middle Eastern was looked at suspiciously, even when they were born American. I would say put on your best face, follow the protocol, and just keep on cuz you are You, not changing for anyone!

It is said first impressions are everything, but me personally I don't agree 100%

What do people assume about you first hand and are they usually correct?

I smoke. I don't subscribe to the social norms, I don't buy bullshit. These are things people are correct in assuming. The incorrect assumptions are: I have a bomb strapped somewhere on my person (terrorist) I'm Muslim. I'm homeless, and I'm Bob Marley's child, lol
On a lighter note, and your Bob Marley’s child lmao!

I can tell you right now the few things I can't leave home without: cell phone, shades, lip gloss, Mintos, and purse with money. What are your TOP most important necessities you cannot leave home without?

A pen, a pad, my lighter, a knife, and my common sense.

No Doubt, Common Sense

I believe I've gotten to know you well enough to ask Share with us Andrew a wild experience you've had that you still remember to this day.

Performing while under the influence of hallucinogenics. Man, I was my worse, most critical, unforgiving audience member that night haha.
smh lol.

What advice can you give aspiring guys/gals who have a genuine love for music, mixing sounds, creating party themes, and want to use these elements to create the ultimate party experience as DJ’s, Emcees, and FEMcees?

Don't follow trends. Follow the feeling you had that first got you into the sounds you enjoy and want to make. Compromising art is the first step to losing yourself, at least in my opinion.
Good Advice. I'm feeling you.

What must an event planner or agency need to do in order to find a good DJ in short notice? What do you require or consider as an MC to do a gig for anyone?

Not much experience in last min. DJ bookings, but a wide umbrella of contacts and connections never hurts! as an MC I only require good sound, good musical selection, and my very reasonable flat rate :)

While you’re at it, give us the rate for your services.
The range is from $200-450 bucks dependent upon the venue, headliners, lodging and travel, and so on.

Twilight is the supernatural movie that sent a craze throughout the US. Vampires, werewolves, anything that is superhuman. If you could have any super power or be any creature what would it be and why? I already have a super power: critical thinking. And if provoked thoroughly enough the lion will come out!

Pulling from Theron Steele’s fav books, I’m gonna call you an Animorph for mentioning a lion lol. And somehow I just thought of, Snoop The Lion lol.

If you can meet anyone in the world, who do you want to shake hands and speak with face to face or better yet Emcee an event?
I'd like to meet the first guy who created an electrical tone,....just so I could play him some kryptic minds, or kromestar, or compa and see his reaction pahaha.

I'd love to shake hands and converse with some native chiefs of tribes in the hayday of their existence.
I'd love to speak face to face with the man who invented money so I could personally knee him in the groin.
I'd love to emcee at outlook in Croatia,...cause that shit is dope!
Dang knee him in the groin. Ouch. ha! In other words, money is the root of all evil.

God forbid anything of this nature happens, but we must be real Andrew. Life is as unpredictable as it gets and as people we don't want to admit to that side of it. If a situation ever happens that you can NOT do what you love anymore, how will you turn it around without letting the circumstance defeat you?
If the day comes where no one wants to hear my music again, then I will go back to performing and composing for my first audience member: myself! haha, being a complex being on this planet, I, as do all, have many goals dreams and aspirations. If a door is closed on my musical aspirations, I'd take that as a sign to pursue more vigorously my many other passions.

If there's anyone who deserves credit for recognizing your skills and pushing you ahead share with us who this person is and how you met them.
I have to give the credit to my family: the dirty crew (blaise b. big o, rhymin artistik, colin coyle, dave easy, march-mellow, d-boy). These are my closest friends I had the pleasure of meeting while in college, they probably knew me before I knew myself, and they did nothing more than encourage me to grow into the man I am today. These are my brothers, friends, and fellow artists.

There's a time for us all, so we must make use of the time we have the best way we can. What legacy do you want to leave behind when the last chapter of your life comes to an end?
I want to be able to share any and all wisdom that I have learned living the life that I have lived. Be that with my children or lineage, or any eager ears interested in knowing more to life than just the rat race.

Now to wrap up our Jolly Good Time lol, How can newbies, readers, and music lovers keep up with the Latest & Greatest?
Follow me and keep up wit the werdz:
Twitter: @Werd2jah
Instagram: @werd2jah
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/werd2jah2
Tumblr: www.tumblr.werd2jah
Search for me on: Youtube, Soundcloud, Reverbnation, and Facebook!
Where can everyone go to listen to your music?

www.soundcloud.com/werd2jah
http://werd2jah.wix.com/werd2jah

www.reverbnation.com/werd2jah
www.myspace.com/werd2jah
www.facebook.com/werd2jah2
www.youtube.com/werd2jah
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC786B52B79D4CE4A
latest tunes I'm currently working on are:

http://soundcloud.com/digital6/werd-2-jah-repsect-tha-king
and
http://soundcloud.com/the-nome/werd2jah-badman-dangerous
StumbleUpon.com

And that completes our time with our first rising MC or formally referred to as THE Master of Ceremonies Andrew Werd2Jah. Andrew it has been a pleasure and we’re all rooting for the best in your endeavors. We’re going to be jamming to your material, believe that!

Yes yes! respek and big upz! 1love.


From L to R: Being a super tourist... Us after the 2nd Madison Square Garden show....too dope! -NY Madison Square Garden Dec 15, 2010