Car Can't Catch Me

Poetry: Immigrant #NaPoWriMo

2014-04-05T06:28:00.002-07:00

: The bottom line - to cap it all

Forgive me --I broke the law,
But if you had walked in my shoes and saw what I saw,
You’d know my motives,
So my children can live,
a better life, and too, their kids.

A Mexican working hard in the US to support families,
left behind,
south of the border, with no peace of mind - whether she’s been shot, by an Arizona ranger - whether he’s been jailed, by Operation Gatekeeper.

Lost across the Imperial Desert or over the mountains north of Tecate.
Mexicans drown in canals and rivers. While the army militarize the border…

A 30 hour coach journey, in the faith of living better.
Only to die of dehydration, hypothermia or xenophobia.

Busloads of Polish people, skilled in many trades,
make the journey from Warsaw to the land of opportunity, the UK.

Better healthcare, better pay, this is the European Union
Only to find themselves taken advantage of and spit upon for taking the jobs natives can’t or refuse to work in.

Was this the freedom envisaged?
Working 7 days a week, paid cheap for their keep.

Laws let goods and money freely cross borders, yet impose a form of class warfare against when it comes to workers.

Not free to move with changing economic conditions in the same manner that businesses can move their capital.

And that's the bottom line, to cap it all.

Poem a Day: Woman #NaPoWriMo

2014-04-05T06:25:00.000-07:00

Woman

: You cannot stop a force of nature

Her questions are getting no answers and she has to ask them louder.
She’s given no explanation and her confusion is growing stronger.

She is alone, determined to survive. She has the energy, in her mind.

She is a fighter and there is so much to live for, that’s why she was born. She will honor it. Do not cause her any harm.

If she feeds her soul, do you fear she can outgrow you? Don’t forget, she can uphold you.

She’ll put a message in a bottle. She will not be unheard.

You cannot stop a force of nature, it will catch up with you, it already encapsulates you.

The force is too strong.

She has been standing up for centuries and she will not to be silenced.

There’s nothing that can stop her, not ancestry, not violence.

Not even judgment because she knows...

All she needs is one person, because that love is strong.

Love lasts for all time, no matter where she has gone.

National Poetry Writing Month: Requiem #NaPoWriMo

2014-04-05T06:18:00.001-07:00

: Raindrops on the train glass window

This is the perfect poem for me to kick off my #NaPoWriMo contribution with, as I wrote Requiem after a long long period of writer's block. The inspiration behind it was something so simple, yet created this out pour which I was not in control of:-

Requiem

Raindrops on the train glass window,

fall effortlessly like the pain you give and claim to not know.

Epitomising the demising friendship I was desiring, to step into; fantasising,

where it could go.

Oh they fall, so small,

But build up to a size,

uncontrollable to hold back anymore.

Like the tears in my eyes,

concealed by a smile;

hard to not eventually show at all.

They fall south despite being blown; forced in the other direction.

I wish I had somewhere to hide – a distraction,

from the cold slap of spite, like sudden frostbite

from the warm sunny flirts of your affection.

I wish I had some protection from the gust that stings my eyes,

And the whistling wind voicing my silent cries.

I was crazy for you.

Now I abhor you.

I guess I had to write a requiem for you.

Soon the storm will pass,

After a lightning flash making sense of the past;

To wash old rivers away,

Drown out the sorrow, for tomorrow may still be cold but will be a brighter day.

Shouldn’t let a bad experience diminish my spirit,

Or keep me from friendships.

I’ve come to terms with it.

Definitely learned from it.

You were never true.

I was crazy for you.

Now I abhor you.

So I wrote a requiem for you.

(here’s a requiem for you).

Lapiro De Mbanga: Cameroon's Voice of the Voiceless leaves a legacy of revolution that lives on

2014-03-29T07:25:00.000-07:00

Lapiro De Mbanga, one of West Africa’s biggest names in music who fought against political corruption in Cameroon, died of cancer this month after living in exile in America the past two

In a country with one of the lowest working wages for its people; where homosexuality is illegal and a government which censors musicians and journalists for questioning its dictatorship rule, where does Cameroon’s future lie?

: Lapiro De Mbanga: Rebel with a cause

Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour, who calls for peace in his latest song One Africa, said: “A song can get the message out there quicker than a political speech.” But it is the People’s Democratic Movement Party and Cameroon’s President since 1982, Paul Biya, who has censored musicians, jailed them and according to De Mbanga “tried to kill me twice” for messages in songs.

De Mbanga, who sang and rapped in pidgin - a mixture of English, French and local languages, has over 30 years of hits, which were regularly censored for their political themes. He gained millions of fans from a population frustrated and disenfranchised in their country.

It was 2008’s track Constitution Constipée (Constipated Constitution) that upset the powerful political party most. It criticised President Biya’s proposed constitutional amendment which would remove Cameroon's two-term presidential limit, to allow Biya to stand for re-election.

Despite being banned by TV and radio, the song became an inspirational anthem among the student demographic who held protests pushing for reform. De Mbanga was blamed for his music influencing riots in which 40 people were killed and after an unfair trial he was jailed for three years.

: Ndinga Man (Guitar man) / Voice of the Voiceless / Bard of Cameroon's working class

The Danish-based NGO Freemuse (Freedom of Musical Expression) led an international campaign for De Mbanga’s release. In partnership with human rights activist Deeyah Khan and Grappa records, Freemuse released the album Listen to the Banned (2010) full of censored artists which featured Constitution Constipée. In an interview De Mbanga said: “If Freemuse hadn't publicised my case worldwide, I'd have been dead long ago".

Following his release from jail in 2011 De Mbanga produced more anti-Biya songs and in 2012 he received political asylum in the US.

A book De Mbanga began working on last year, The Planned Death of a Freedom Fighter, is set for release this year. Also due in 2014 is a film about the country’s censorship laws from exiled Cameroonian radio journalist Issa Nyaphaga. De Mbanga’s fight to expose corruption and speak up for the rights of the Cameroonian people lives on.

Kate Bush: The cover versions before the dawn

2014-03-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

Many artists have covered Kate Bush classics - and in light of the build-up for the Before the Dawn London dates - here are some suggestions in case she would ever consider returning the favour:

Maxwell sang the 1990 Kate Bush song ‘This Woman’s Work’ for his MTV Unplugged concert in 1997 and recorded it for his 2001 album Now.

Kate Bush cover suggestion: Maxwell’s ‘Whenever Wherever Whatever’ (1997)

Natalie Cole covered the 1978 Kate Bush song ‘The Man With The Child In His Eyes’ for her 2006 album Leavin’.

Kate Bush cover suggestion: Natalie Cole’s ‘I’m Catching Hell’ (1978)

Ra Ra Riot covered the 1982 Kate Bush song ‘Suspended in Gaffa’ on their 2008 album The Rhumb Line.

Kate Bush cover suggestion: Ra Ra Riot’s ‘The Orchard’ (2010)

The Futureheads covered the 1985 Kate Bush song ‘Hounds of Love’ for their self-titled album in 2004.

Kate Bush cover suggestion: The Futurehead’s ‘Thursday’ (2012)

Herbie Hankcock, with John Legend and Pink, covered the Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush Duet ‘Don’t Give Up’ for Hancock’s 2010 album The Imagine Project.

Kate Bush (live band) cover suggestion: Instrumental interlude Herbie Hancock’s ‘You’ll Know When You Get There’ (1971)

Kate Bush’s Before the Dawn dates are as follows:

August

26 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

27- London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

29 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

30 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

September

2 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

3 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

5 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

6 – London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

9 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

10 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

12 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

13 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

16 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

17 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

19 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

October

1 - London's Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

Damon Albarn: The Heavy Seas of modern technology

2014-03-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

: Artwork for Heavy Seas of Love: Palacio Salvo, Montevideo, Uruguay

Damon Albarn has been building up the release of his debut solo album Everyday Robots with a series of heavy-hearted song clips.

The piano led song 'Heavy Seas Of Love' which features Brian Eno on guest vocals is the latest. The music box melody contrasts with melancholy vocals and overall is a mellow mid-tempo treat.

Other songs include the title track and 'Lonely Press Play'.

The information accompanying the video for 'Lonely Press Play' explains it was "shot by Damon on a tablet and you'll see scenes from Tokyo, London, Dallas, Utah, Colchester, North Korea, Iceland and Devon." Albarn has always embraced modern technology with music. With Gorillaz, the visuals were the source of a new live experience.

From what we've seen so far from Albarn's Youtube clips, for his solo project, there seems to be sadness in the social commentary.

The lyrics, visuals and vocals all seem to be grieving for a population that have become disconnected from real life when ironically, we are living in an era where the world is within our touchscreen fingertips.

For the 'Everyday Robots' video, Albarn sings "We are everyday robots on our phones" as we watch the process of a human face forming in a digital animation. It's a thought-provoking concept that reminds us to think what it is, to be human.

: Damon Albarn: Everyday Robots is set for release on April 28

The single ‘Heavy Seas of Love’ will be available for download from April 27. The album Everyday Robots follows the next day on April 28.

Damon Albarn is set to perform with his current band, The Heavy Seas, in London before heading to New York to headline the Latitude Festival.

Upcoming gigs are as follows:

April

30 - London Rivoli Ballroom

May

1 - London Queen Mary University Great Hall

July

19 – Latitude festival – New York

Beyoncé: Feminism through #Yoncisms

2014-03-20T16:59:00.001-07:00

While the #bebossyandproud hashtag takes over #banbossy - Mrs. Carter has been the tour that Beyoncé, the boss, has been leading since 2013.

: Beyoncé: The boss

Her fifth release, a self-entitled visual album with 17 videos, swept the entertainment world when it was released unannounced in December. Selling a record-breaking 828,773 copies in just three days, Beyoncé completely smashed the previous title holder for first-week sales on iTunes, Justin Timberlake, who sold a measly 580,000 for 20/20 in March.

It became obvious that Beyoncé is the most forceful presence in pop music. She always pays homage to her heroes and has said that the visual album was inspired by her memories of watching Michael Jackson's Thriller video premiere in 1983.

She said: "I miss that immersive experience. Now people only listen to a few seconds of a song on their iPods and they don't really invest in the whole experience".

It was 2009's super anthem Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) that elevated Beyoncé to a superstar stratosphere. Toddlers did the Single Ladies dance and grandparents learned Beyoncé 's name. It also means that she has since been scrutinised more than ever for her image, her lyrics and her feminist credentials.

"I do believe in equality. Why do you have to choose what type of woman you are? Why do you have to label yourself anything? I’m just a woman and I love being a woman." - Beyoncé, British Vogue (May 2013)

But the feminism debate has meant that some other interesting themes on this album have been overlooked:

Beyonce's breakthroughs - losses and wins

#iwokeuplikethis

The album begins with Beyoncé's strive for perfection in Pretty Hurts and later Rocket and Flawless demonstrate her becoming comfortable with who she is on the outside and in. A clip of her former group Girls Tyme losing a Star Search competition on TV in 1992 is sampled around Flawless to signify her failures and her hard work to succeed.

The penultimate track Heaven is also about loss, the video is based on one of her mother's best friend's passing. The album is concluded with the gorgeous ballad Blue about how Blue Ivy Carter - who features on the track - has changed Beyoncé's life.

Aside from sexuality, the album affirms Beyoncé's pride of Creole roots and of course her hometown Houston, Texas. Visual symbols of fire and trophies seem to be key references in the videos which tie in with themes of failure, success and self acceptance in the music.

Beyoncé the Business Woman

: Surfboard/Watermelon

The new approach to this album dropping quietly was a risk. Since becoming a mother in 2012, Beyoncé has directed her own documentary; performed at the Superbowl, sung for President Obama's second inauguration and starred in Pepsi ads. The only hint of a new album was the premiere of Bow Down on Beyoncé's website in July to announce the first leg of the Mrs. Carter Show tour.

With the album's release, Beyoncé not only showed she was on the pulse with music but in tune with social media and brought out her own brand of Yoncisms.

The album is f

ull of hashtag friendly buzz words. These are Yoncisms ready to be merchandised. Even Madonna has been pictured wearing one of the slogans.

Yoncism: a word used to describe your feelings like Beyoncé would describe hers.

#whatwouldbeyoncedo

: Bey Good: Merchandise

Yoncé is as good a businesswoman as she is a performer! Like the album, the Mrs. Carter Show is a visual feast and a hard-kicking , female dominating concert.

The Show

Since the album's release, new songs have been added to the Mrs. Carter Show set-list. The build-up begins with huge visual screens that light up and run a tour promo of Beyoncé entering a court dressed in full Marie Antoinette regalia to a drum procession. A female band forms, marching onto the stage and finally the actual Beyoncé rises before the live audience to adulation. Her hand is firmly on her hip and her gaze is defiant to everyone. She channels a superhero quality, dressed in her white bodice and thigh high boots as her blond locks flow magnificently in the wind.

A subtle power

Beyoncé: She has the (super)power

She could be anywhere from the UK to Japan - she raises her fist as she launches into her anthem "Run the World (Girls)" and she rules over the only two men in the show - Les Twins the dancers.

While the lyrics on the album have been dissected to debate Beyoncé's role model status and her previous apprehension at being labelled a feminist; the Mrs. Carter Show makes it clear what her beliefs are. "We Should All Be Feminists", the TedxEuston talk from Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie which Beyoncé samples for Flawless is blasted on stage and the lyrics flash bold on the screens.

“Feminist: a person who believes in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes.” - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, TEDxEuston (April 2013)

Popstars like Beyoncé advocating control and independence tend to face backlash when they express their sexual and relationship desires as a woman. Janet Jackson went from Let's Wait Awhile to Anytime Anyplace to much of the same appalled, up-in-arms, shock-horror response by the media.

It's interesting how despite a 20 year gap between Janet (1993) and Beyoncé (2013), the media response to females enjoying their sexuality - especially giving/expecting oral sex can result in a response of horror.

We teach girls that they cannot be sexual beings in the way that boys are.” - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, TEDxEuston (April 2013)

Beyoncé, much like Jackson created a name for herself associated with anthems for female empowerment and has now grown up to include singing about the joys of sex. While their journeys may be different it points to there being a very human connection between the struggles for womanhood, independence, love and desire. They are both good role models for singing about a woman's worth and for singing about sex.

They both bring empowerment to people no matter the gender or background.

Beyonce's causes include CUFA (aids the education and development of children in Brazilian ghettoes); the Kolacho School of Hip Hop (removes gang members and rehabilitates them through music and dance skills); Life Standard (supports children in Mexican orphanages) and that's just a fraction.

She donated her salary from Cadillac Records to programmes for the Phoenix House, a drug and alcohol treatment centre after she visited them for research.

Find out more about her causes:

: Beyoncé: Bey Good

"Sisterhood means everything to me. All the charities I'm involved with are special, but I find any organization that focuses on women and children really motivating." Beyonce, Self Magazine (August 2010)

Prince & @3RDEYEGIRL: Five reasons why the Hit & Run Tour is so awesome

2014-02-24T13:46:00.001-08:00

Prince

5) Ticket touts, have been left out in the cold by Prince's marketing strategy

: Slick Prince, slick

This has been a mini-triumph for real music fans. Seatwave have had to refund over-inflated tickets they bought in bulk for the Manchester shows (Friday 21 February Saturday 22 February). As a result of this, Manchester Academy were able to offer a limited number of tickets on the door.

4) Avoiding the middlemen

: That's a no from Prince

Years before Beyoncé declared "I don't trust these record labels I'm tourin'" from her surprise visual album; Prince was releasing free and independent music. He is renowned for cutting out the middleman and the Hit and Run tour is just another part of his style.

The anxiousness at getting into such small venues is rewarded for fans: When only 150 people showed up for a last-minute announced second gig on the Friday in Manchester - they were treated to his encore rather than a second show - four encores by the way. The mis-communication left the encore arrivals feeling out of pocket but they were guaranteed free entry into Saturday night's gig.

3) No smartphones

: Prince prefers analogue

This one can cause a mixed reaction. Prince has always fought for the copyright of his work and while everybody wants a keepsake of their concert experience - some people forget to live in the moment and can end up watching a full show through their smartphone lens.

2) Lianne La Havas

: Her name is Lianne La Havas

Obviously, over the last 30 years, people who have grown up loving Prince's music have gone on to become musicians themselves. The icon has always recognised this and reached out despite being an enigma. British performers he has invited to perform with him include Beverley Knight, Mica Paris and Amy Winehouse. Prince discusses "real music" in an upcoming edition of MOJO magazine and he questions why people like La Havas are not having hits.

: Prince's only UK interview

He also held his press conference for the tour with 3RDEYEGIRL in La Havas' living room.

1) Funk N Roll

: Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL

Prince's latest group 3RDEYEGIRL are made up of guitarist Donna Grantis, drummer Hannah Ford and bassist Ida Nielsen and boy do they rock! This is real music played by talented musicians who can keep up with Prince. The PRETZELBODYLOGIC era is a larger-than-life experience of rock and funk where the band and Prince all perform their chops off!

Music is available to buy from 3RDEYEGIRL's website.

: Applause

Live music review: Prince and @3RDEYEGIRL bring Funk n' Roll to Manchester

2014-02-24T13:41:00.001-08:00

It's been many hours and nearly two days...

since Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL left the audience from their second night in Manchester dripping in an adrenaline of black sweat and a glow of funk and roll.

: Funk n' Roll - Prince jamming on stage with 3RDEYEGIRL. Photo taken from Manchester Evening News

This was the second night in a row the band played Manchester Academy.

3RDEYEGIRL, made up of Donna (guitar), Hannah (drums) and Ida (bass) came out at 8PM to an already hype crowd - there's a certain energy when you know Prince Rogers Nelson is behind a curtain.

Then the rock began to rumble, and that instantly recognisable voice began singing as 3RDEYEGIRL got into the groove. Every neck craned to see Prince's entrance as he walked cooly centre-stage. The night was young.

Prince could feel the love. The crowd was definitely giving it back to him singing every song with him; cheering as he relayed that love on to the fantastic band. Everyone cheered as 3RDEYEGIRL tore the roof off, this was the ultimate jam session. My eyes were back and forth trying to absorb the ethereal atmosphere of watching Prince sit and play as the band rocked high to the heavens to classics and new songs alike ranging from She's Always in my Hair to Something In the Water. I'll never forget him incorporating "Man - CHESTER" into his many songs consistently thanking the fans.

The heat in the crowd continued to rise. Although quite far back, this was an intimate venue and when Prince looked into the audience I felt his gaze reach my eye and touch my soul. When he told the crowd to sway side-to-side I was compelled to follow his beat. At points he coyly pointed at fans and told them to put their technology down and clap.

It was clear that Prince is built on a foundation of rhythm. It oozes out of him so naturally.

When the band said their first goodnight and left the stage before 10PM, they'd been playing around an hour and a half. I'd heard the legendary stories of Prince playing hours over UK curfews so I knew he'd come back for an encore. What I didn't expect is for him to come back for 6-8 encores - I lost count.

There were points of the show I couldn't see the band or Prince, but hearing him sit and perform The Beautiful Ones was an experience to cherish even if the image I see of him is just his face, far away on stage, an image encapsulated in between a sea of swaying arms. I could see his shadow above my head as I looked to the ceiling.

It was an incredible set list. As he came out for one of the many encores he warned us that with the amount of hits he has, we could be here all night. The crowd were up for that!

It is a night imprinted in my soul, the energy rocked me to the core and the love and respect Prince showed the fans is evident in them all, old and new.

Prince fans have shown their true purple colours via the Prince Army on twitter. I have watched them all rally together and support each other to get to venues, swap tickets and beat the ticket touts over social media.

He rewarded this dedication and came out to every encore request. He brought up on stage those who had queued for hours in the Manchester cold, rain and hail.

Seeing his hard-core fans jamming on stage with their hero is such a highlight – and Prince fans can dance – especially the guy with a beard, who Prince joked looked like Mumford and Sons.

Over 3 hours of pure energy, a term Prince kept repeating - this was Funk n Roll. 3RDEYEGIRL and Prince, they rocked us, they funked us, they brought the house down.

Repost: Interview - How to make it as a music journalist

2013-12-21T13:39:00.000-08:00

Interview personality Damon Campbell has built a reputation for himself as the man to go to in Michigan if you are a musician. He focuses on the human essence of his subjects as well as their artistic integrity, which makes for compulsive viewing on his website MuzikzMyLife.Com. I wanted to allow our readers to discover how he did it.

SD: I love how music is your life. Did you ever want to make music, or did you watch music interviews and aspire to that career straight away?

DC: Thank you. I’ve always been interested in seeing quote unquote “celebrities” for the human beings that they are and learning about their life stories, so I grew up reading a lot of biography books about my favorite athletes and musicians and watching documentaries like VH1’s “Behind the Music,” even some of Sway’s interviews on MTV. But it definitely took a while for me to see interviewing, or even journalism as a whole, as a viable career choice for myself.

In terms of wanting to make music, not many people even know this about me, but there was actually a brief period of my life when I wanted to grow up to be a rapper. It was just a phase, though, and I eventually grew out of it. But I definitely spent a lot of time in 5th grade writing out the lyrics to my favorite rap songs and memorizing/reciting them, which ultimately lead to me performing “Number 1” by Nelly in front of all my classmates at the school talent show that year. Somewhere along the line, I started writing some songs of my own as well, but thankfully they never saw the light of day.

SD: Looking at your site, it looks like you present for your own website MuziksMyLife.com. Is this website how you established a name for yourself?

DC: Definitely. Ever since I realized that I wanted to make a career out of this, I’ve always sort of looked at my site as a public portfolio: all of my interviews, write-ups, and — to a certain extent —experiences in the music industry on full display for the world to see. Basically, my intentions with the site have always been to ultimately use it as a stepping stone to greater opportunities, once I’ve proven myself worthy of them.

SD: How long ago did you set up the site and did it begin as a music interview website?

DC: I started the site in 2007, when I was a junior in high school, as a way to help keep people up to date with the latest music because at the time, hip-hop blogs (and music blogs in general) weren’t nearly as common as they are today, and not many people even knew about the few that existed. Friends of mine were often asking me to update their iPods for them, so I saw it as a way to help people out on a larger scale. I was spending all my time on these other sites anyways, so one day I just decided to start one of my own, and I called it MuziksMyLife.
As things progressed, I eventually started doing interviews in 2010 as a way to contribute exclusive content to the culture, while also giving my viewers a chance to learn about certain artists and hopefully feel more connected to them as human beings. But for a while I just dabbled, even though I was becoming more and more known for it. I didn’t like the thought of being boxed in and felt like people were overlooking the fact that I could do other things too, so at the time I was still trying to expand my repertoire.
About a year and a half ago, however, I had somewhat of an epiphany. I finally realized that interviewing was what would not only take me the furthest in my career, but also where my passion and talent truly lied. So I decided to fully embrace the role by eliminating all distractions and focusing solely on conducting as many quality interviews as possible.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy5Hvzwi4Uk]

SD: Was your first interview of a famous person? How did you achieve your first interview, and how did you achieve your first interview with an established person?

DC: I feel like ‘fame’ is a relative term, but the first interview I ever did was with a Miami-based rapper named Billy Blue, which was pretty surreal ‘cause his song Story of My Life was the summer anthem for my friends and I the year before. If memory serves me right, I think I got a hold of him over Twitter and he messaged me his manager’s number, who in turn helped me set up a phone call with the man himself that ended up lasting a whopping 26 minutes. That was the first time I realized what types of doors my site could open for me.
But the first time I felt like I had knocked a door down, so to speak, was when I interviewed Wiz Khalifa, and I credit that one in particular to persistence. It was only my third on-camera interview (fourth overall), so clearly I hadn’t established myself yet. Not only that, but “Black and Yellow” was already No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 well on its way to becoming No. 1.
Needless to say, the odds were stacked against me—so much so that I actually got ignored for like a week straight. But I knew deep down that I could make it worth their while, and that it would ultimately give me the credibility I needed to move forward, so I refused to accept defeat and was eventually able to convince Will, his manager, to give me a chance. From there, I knew that anything would be possible.

SD: How did you achieve your goals in terms of writing and interviewing? Does it help being based in Michigan?

DC: I had to learn to appreciate it, but I’ve definitely come to realize that being based in Michigan gives me a competitive advantage. For starters, I conduct the majority of my interviews when artists come through on tour, and it seems like almost every single tour makes at least one stop in Michigan, if not more. We have so many different markets — Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, the list goes on — and each one has multiple venues varying in capacity, which allows for a wide range of talent to come here and perform. And when all else fails, I’m still only three hours from Chicago.
Not only that, but if I lived in a media hub like New York City then I’d be further down the totem pole and therefore less of a priority for artists seeking press coverage while in town. Whereas here in The Mitten, I feel like I’ve marked my territory in a sense and really established myself as the go-to guy for on-camera interviews—at least in hip-hop, anyway.
Over the years, I’ve also become increasingly familiar with different venues and their tendencies, built rapport with certain staff and security, etc. And since none of these interviews are ever truly guaranteed until they’re completed, it helps to know your way around in case you happen to find yourself in a pinch.

SD: Did you receive any help to get to your position? What tips would you give people trying to make a name for themselves?

DC: Oh, definitely. I mean, on the one hand I’m essentially a freelance journalist who just so happens to have his own platform, so it’s certainly an independent grind in the sense that I’ve had to create a lot of my own opportunities. But at the same time, I’d be foolish to think that I could have made it this far without all the people who’ve supported me over the years and ultimately contributed to my success—whether they even realize it or not. I try my best not to take anything for granted, so I could go on for days recalling certain situations and thanking those who’ve played a role up until this point. But to save on time I’d just like to say that this entire journey, much like life in general, has been about one thing leading to another. It all adds up.
Taking that into account, my advice to anyone reading this would be to try and live a regret-free life from this point forward. I know, easier said than done. But think about it: not only are you dwelling on the past, but you’re allowing its negativity to seep into your present. Sure, it can be beneficial to look back on things from time to time and learn from the direct consequences of certain decisions so that you can apply those experiences down the road if you so choose. But the fact of the matter is…even if you could go back in time and change something, it’s utterly impossible to know what type of outcome that would have on even the world in general, much less your own specific situation. It’s the butterfly effect, plain and simple. So there comes a point when dissecting your past only distracts you from your future.

SD: Would you consider yourself an artist? Or how would you describe yourself?

DC: Absolutely. I don’t go around referring to myself as an artist, per se. If someone asks, I’ll say I’m an interviewer or, at most, an interview personality. But if you really break it down, interviewing has become my outlet for creative expression. Just like any other art form, it’s my craft for others to critique, study, and — most of all — enjoy, and I take great pride in my work. I strive for all of my interviews to be the best that they can possibly be, and in the process, refuse to ever sacrifice their artistic integrity.

SD: Are you working 24/7 in your field to maintain a name for yourself?

DC: The last thing I would ever want to do is get caught up in the past and rest on my success, so I eat, sleep, and breathe this stuff. Not only to maintain a name for myself, knowing that all of this could be gone tomorrow if I allowed it to be, but more importantly to continue pushing the boundaries and building upon my accomplishments — always taking things to the next level.
As I mentioned earlier, I named my site MuziksMyLife because at the time, I was spending all of my free time listening to music and studying the game, trying to keep up with everything that was going on within the industry. But since then, music — and more specifically as of late, interviewing musicians — truly has become my life, 24/7. One of the things that I love most about what I do is that I don’t have time to be bored. Regardless of what it is, there’s always something productive that I can be doing to help further my career. Even when I am off doing something else, which is rare, I’m usually still multitasking or, at the very least, thinking about my musical endeavors.

SD: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
DC: I’d just like to thank you for taking the time out to interview me. I really appreciate the opportunity and can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed your questions. I’d also like to thank anyone who took the time to read this. If you’re interested in watching any of my interviews, you can find them all on MuziksMyLife.com. My contact info is on there as well. Thanks again!

Art: When The World Was Blue by @RuthWightman

2013-12-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

: Ruth Wightman Art: When The World Was Blue

A multidisciplined artist, children's story writer and businesswoman, Ruth has her own studio located in a quaint old mill in Keighley.

Recently Ruth showcased some beautiful dream-like illustrations for her new story When The World Was Blue (pictured).

: Jackanory (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

She said in regards to the project: "This story is a picture book illustrated using largish oil paintings that would make an interesting simple animation in the way "Jackanory used to do."

Over the last few years she has built up a strong reputation delivering enjoyable and productive school workshops - in which children learn and have fun creating anything - from masks and mosaics to illustrations and paintings and in regards to her own artwork; she frequently exhibits with other artists.

Ruth is looking to work with film-makers and story-writers. Take a peek at her website, which shows her versatility and we look forward to seeing the collaborations!

Discover more from Ruth at Art-Star, Twitter: Ruth Wightman and Facebook: Ruth Wightman Art

June 2013: Benefits of vlogging

2013-12-21T13:35:00.001-08:00

: Image via CrunchBase

It was reported this week that Youtube vlogger - musician Charlie McDonnell (who has amassed over 280 million views on his web channel and has more than 2 million subscribers) has become Save the Children's Youtube ambassador to promote the fight against world hunger.

In light of this news, we were reminded of how simple and effective vlogging is.

Here are some reasons to vlog:

You can be as creative as you like without a budget: You don't have to look like you're on a set. While you may feel you're competing with corporations who have online video channels, thousands of people upload videos from their bedroom and gain a following.

: Charlie McDonnell at vidcon gathering 2010. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As long as the viewers can see you and the camera's not shaky you're in with a good chance of holding people's interest! (see some tips below).

You can show the world who you are: Whether you want to talk about politics, entertainment or perform in some way; there are categories and tags for your videos to help share your video. These enable you to get featured and viewed in popular lists. See tagging tips below.

You are in control: Even if you're shy, you can script yourself upload when you're happy with the final product. The possibilities of what you can do are endless and if you have a good idea you can execute it how you like.

You can bring in an income: Having a Youtube channel can make you money, if you set up the function on your account for adverts.

You have a lot to say: There are so many fantastic articles out there and blog posts on current topics. Vlogging is another way to capture someone's attention instantly and build up your reputation and some people might send you requests.

Tips:

There is an art to tagging: It's important to have a couple of keywords in your description box, a relevant title and around 10 relevant tags. If you write i.e. 'beyonce,' as a tag to gain viewership you're likely to be considered spam so be wary!

Decide on a theme: It's not necessary but if you can, your series of vlogs can become a comedy channel for example.

Sensations:

Vlogger Ryan Higa, a Japanese-American comedian from Hawaii, is currently the most subscribed to YouTube channel. He has created a series of vlogs he calls “Off The Pill”, which he records them when he is off his ADHD medication. So he has created a niche.

Some parents have created profiting opportunities for their children:

Rosie and Sophia Grace have won awards after endearing videos of them singing won the heart of America's Ellen who gave them a job on her show.

This video which I'm sure you've seen is one of the most successful Youtube videos: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OBlgSz8sSM]

The boys now have a channel which features more of them. If you look at just this one vlog - it's covered in adverts and in the description box they sell merchandise to the fans.

So, vlogging is something to consider, whether you want to be some kind of commentator or want to write scripts, want to showcase graphic skills or skills in music or comedy for example - it's worth jumping in to - what's to be afraid of?

Make it real...

A conversation with greatness

2013-12-21T13:33:00.001-08:00

Geoff Doyle, founder of Greatness HQ has been running his own businesses for almost 20 years. His website oozes with his true belief in human potential so I wanted to ask him for tips and inspiration!

But having an interview with Geoff isn’t one-sided. He’s as interested in you as you are in him.

: Greatness HQ logo

SD: When did you set up the Greatness HQ blog and did people take to it straight away?

Geoff Doyle: I was the CEO of a real estate business that had over 50 offices across Australia as well as a few in New Zealand. My exit from the business occurred about 18 months ago and I was unemployed for the first time, so I thought that I would take it easy for a while and just get a job running someone else’s company - but I found that those type of roles are hard to come by when you have always been self-employed. Everyone thought that I would want to leave, so I eventually came to the idea that I would need to work for myself again.

This time I was looking for something that would allow me to work from home and spend more time with my family. I have a couple of websites and have been actively following some people on the internet for a while and thought that this would be the way to meet my requirements; so Greatness HQ was started around October last year. For this site my original thinking was that it would be targeted at guys (as one of my other sites is female friendly), but I am finding that while I have a slight male dominance in those coming to the site it is pretty even.

SD: Do you think being business-minded already was advantageous for you? That's something that I find a lot of creatives struggle with.

GD: As a general rule the more creative a person the less business minded they are. For this person I would encourage them to focus almost exclusively on the creative stuff they do so well, but they must get someone on-side to drive the business side.
I disagree very much with the creative person who shuns money, as if it is something that makes them dirty. I would argue that they have a responsibility to be commercial so that they can share their creativity with the world. Without the financial support they will struggle constantly and maybe never have the opportunity to have a voice for whatever their creative talent is so my answer is that they have to look after the money side of things either them elves or via a manager or close friend.

SD: On the flip side -there's the person who wants to make money and take the money but in a lot of cases have no choice but take expenses only. It can be tough to negotiate if you don't know how to value yourself.

: Geoff Doyle's website Greatness HQ

GD: As a writer you know how much time and effort goes into creating a book. Now there are 1000s written each year, but very few actually generate any real return for their authors. This is so sad. This is where marketing comes in and can enhance the value of the book. You need to have a belief about what you do, and about the value that you add. People will often pay much more that you think for a service as long as you are adding heaps of value. The internet has driven down the value of a lot of things around the world.

SD: I guess it can be used to advantage too - to create a portfolio of proof of whatever service you say you do.

GD: For example there are so many places where you can source articles for a blog for around $5 to $7 an article. This makes it difficult for a writer in a major economy to participate. So there is no value in being the greatest writer, actor, painter if you are totally broke and living in poverty. That poverty can help to amplify the creativity, but it is likely to diminish it as the person is spending their time worrying about paying the rent.

Just thinking about what you are doing, you have the opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of a lot of people. Selina, may I ask what sort of writing do you do?

SD: Yes we are learning - especially advocating thinks like kickstarter while we learn about funding. I’ve written for various organisations on different topics. I would like to continue on a career path writing about music and human rights issues.

GD: Did I see somewhere that you have travelled a lot with your human rights work?

SD: No, but I work for Deeyah Khan. She's a Norwegian Pakistani female who was a child star and attacked by her community for being a female singer so now she works to help empower music artists and women around the world.

Geoff looks her up on Wikipedia and notices her work to educate on honour killings in order to eradicate the practise.

: Deeyah's website Memini - in remembrance of women murdered in 'honour' killings

GD: These are terrible things, you must be a strong person to be prepared to shine a light on these issues.

SD: She (Deeyah) is - she has had threats on her life but it's made her more determined to speak out.

GD: There seems to be some real unrest in the UK at the moment after the killing (Drummer Lee Rigby) last week.

SD: It's gone both ways, communities coming together too. But what makes me angry is that the troublemakers from both sides - EDL or Muslim extremists - they have the same agenda. These organisations want to create division and people fall for both. That's why people have to speak up and I think good people are getting airtime this time around.

GD: That is good news. So with the honour killings that you have written about, how many has there been in the UK or Europe?

SD: I think it's estimated around 100 a year in the UK, I’d need to look it up – I know it’s not an accurate figure of how many killings take place anyway, because the figure is only what's reported.

GD: Seriously?

SD: It's very difficult because if a family wants to hide the fact they killed their own child - who is going to report it if they’ve isolated that child without others to notice them missing?

GD: Yes. So how can these killings be stopped?

SD: I think Deeyah's mission; which is to get organisations like schools, hospitals and police to know the signs will help a lot. So hopefully this way they (potential victims) will know they're not alone if they learn in school. it's a difficult crime to identify but just by bringing it to attention that's a step, because the tight-knit communities who commit to this mentality try to keep such practises to themselves.

‎GD: You need to find the strong men that are prepared to renounce these practices and publish their stories. the stories of how they may have found other ways to be true to their religion but also being merciful to their daughters. I know that they will be running the risk of being ostricised in their community but these are the guys that can start to turn this around.

Selina this may be your challenge to shine a light on these guys.

SD: I agree with what you said Geoff, with your motivational website I could just find the strength to do so.

We ended the conversation here, with Geoff apologising if he went off-tangent from what I asked of him. He is also a strong advocate for self-publishing books on Amazon because of the benefits.

Do check out his website and connect with him on his twitter – he is extremely kind if you are need of direction or a creative boost.

Making it in the music industry: A Creation interviews Toochi

2013-12-21T13:31:00.000-08:00

Making music and breaking through

Selina Ditta interviews dance act duo Chidi and Chinwe of TOOCHI who have been riding the waves of the British music scene.

WITH THEIR HOT TRACK SOS (STYLE OVER SUBSTANCE) SPINNING IN THE CLUBS AND THE SIZZLING SUMMER SINGLE FIGHT FOR YOUR DREAM ON THE WAY, TOOCHI, (WHO YOU MAY HAVE SEEN ON SKY TV AT THE PINEAPPLE DANCE STUDIO) HAVE JUMPED IN TO THE DEEP END OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY AND SURVIVED IN THE FIGHT FOR THEIR PLACE IN THE SPOTLIGHT.

I was so impressed with the spirit of the girls I had to get them to open up for A Creation’s readers.

Selina Ditta: So the new single is Fight For your Dream (FFYD) - what has been your fight? Tell us the journey!

Toochi: We have been fighting for our dream a while and it’s working! Just staying optimistic is a fight in itself…but we have each other to support when the chips are down. There are a zillion jobs to do in our record label and a lot of people to talk to so it can be hard work to keep on top of it all. But our biggest drive is to hear the songs come to life and perform them with our crew. It makes it all worthwhile when we see the end results.

We are promoting the album Play. It’s our way of telling ourselves: "We work hard and now we want to have fun, it’s time to play!" Our album Back to Front will be about the journey of how we began our career – we came out with big ideas and got our fingers burnt and we had to humble ourselves and now we have a better understanding of the whole spectrum of the official process and do things differently. We got ourselves in sticky situations in the past and that’s why we’re much more at ease now.

SD: What were the sticky situations? And what sort of sharks/charlatans/pitfalls have you come across? What should upcoming acts look out for and what lessons have you learned on your journey?

Toochi: We learnt the hard way that the industry can be harsh but you have to remember what your passion is and stay strong in yourself to live your passion even if everyone else tells you not to.

Sticky situation: dealing with sharks and being taken advantage of financially. We actually feel there needs to be more regulation in the industry – it’s taken us 15 years to learn to survive. There could be more to nurture young raw talent and look after those who are at such an innocent stage and eager to present what they’ve got only to realise people want to catch you out in a negative way. If you’re not resilient it’s a lonely place and we have each other for support through the dark times and when we hit dead ends.

SD: Who do you surround yourself with? Is it hard to trust people?

Toochi: We have wonderful family and good friends as resilient as us. They’re positive and supportive and keep us in check too. Our Toochi team are amazing and talented people who we’ve worked with over the years.

SD: How has Pineapple Dance Studio helped your career?

Toochi: Pineapple has been instrumental for our career as we trained there when we first started out years ago, allowing us to develop our dance/music skills. We originally came from the dance world so we were also able to meet and work with our teams that help give you TOOCHI today. We love the energy of dancing together and the discipline it instils - plus it’s also good for expressing what our lyrics say.

“

We have to be disciplined in learning all aspects (i.e. the business) of our craft to achieve the satisfaction of getting our expression (the music) out of it. The drive is getting people to hear the songs.

”

SD: From my understanding you have your own record label.

Toochi: Yes we operate our own label called T Records which allows TOOCHI music to travel from creative beginnings and end up in your iPod.

SD: So what goes into the record label?

Toochi: There’s so many jobs we have to forecast and lots of scheduling and juggling and map planning. It’s about being organised as well as creative. We have learnt so much – from making sure our video specs are right for broadcast – to getting our music to the right promoters and gig spaces and then working with production teams.

Some people we work with are not business savvy they just want to dance and sing and if you can find people you trust to do the business part for you that’s great. We do it interchangeably together – the business side allows the creative side to survive, it took a while for us to understand that. We have to only take on what we can manage as we are a small team. We have the single and the video and the album and we do want to expand to international markets so we have a plan that we’ll execute in phases so as not to crumble.

SD: How do you stay motivated?

Toochi: Always be convicted in your own vision. If we have a good song we get it out there, rather than deal with the politics of releasing it via a label. Our choreographer Mark Battershall really understands us; through the years we sustained dance injuries and industry setbacks. We’ve taken big risks but when you’re convicted in what you’ve got and you think it’ll benefit others – for example, to listen to your song and see others dancing to it and enjoying it is instant gratification. Music has been such a positive influence in our lives, a big tool to channel emotions and we just want to put back in what we’ve got out of it.
We get energy from seeing the end results, both of us dream up a concept or idea or melody then hear it, harmonise and record it on Dictaphones. We were having a jam session in the studio with our guitar player the other day and we are so happy when we are in our element and it makes everything worth it!

SD: How is the buzz around you created?

Toochi: You have to knock on a lot of doors to get your video shown and at the moment the buildings are all online so you have to push yourself forward. There is more scope and more reception for independent labels now – in the past, if you couldn’t get signed by a big record label like BMG, you weren’t considered an artist. But now you can make it happen without waiting for someone to tell you that you are an artist and the drive is to get our songs heard.

We’re known in the club circuit as an underground act – we’re so grateful for the DJs supporting I Represent and SOS – and SKY and Pineapple Dance Studio's support. If there is a buzz going on about TOOCHI then that’s very cool and we are very grateful for everyone who buys and enjoys our music.

SD: How do aspiring singers get to make professional videos and make names for themselves?

Toochi: By finding the video directors you want to work with and making that call. Be bold and believe in yourself. You can go for gold if you really want to.

The FFYD video was a labour of love. When you're trying to get your message across and everyone's passion, talent and energy were given 100% it came together with great results.

Financially it wasn’t easy. It’s a long process as we do live our lives and everyone in TOOCHI world has other jobs and work on their creativity on the side. While we’d love to have the funding we have made it work regardless and become business minded.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD_K_2d4Egc&w=560&h=315]

SD: What sort of messages are on the album? I've seen you tweet some inspiring lyrics?

Toochi: We like to offer empowering messages that can be applied to help our everyday lives. TOOCHI provides positive lyrics to inspire, encourage and acknowledge important things in life like family and having good friends. SOS is curently being promoted in the clubs up and down the country and we did have support from Capital Radio FM and KISS FM when it was first released. The 2013 release has been a great hit with DJ's who haven't forgotten TOOCHI! We're really excited about FFYD hitting the clubs for summer and the IBIZA scene!

SD: How do you decide to become a commercial act and how have you made it happen?

Toochi: A lot of hard work and dedication. We have always loved creating new songs and melodies so we played to our strengths and kept our music genre in that market place. There is a lot of talented people in team TOOCHI that we have been extremely fortunate to work alongside with so the level of talent we work with in TOOCHI is naturally reflected in our music and videos.

SD: You appeared in Coldplay and Robbie williams videos - how did it come about and is appearing in others' music videos a good way of networking in the music industry?

Toochi: Definitely! We threw ourselves out there to try as many jobs as possible as you get to meet the people in the industry and make your contacts. We went to Robbie’s for a laugh- as they were looking for Robbie William lookalikes but we still made the final cut! In the Coldplay video we were extras helping to create a spotlight effect. Chris Martin instantly recognised that we were identical twins when he spotted us! That was nice.

SD: You tweet inspiring messages a lot, also it seems your lyrics follow this. What is your working motto?

Toochi: Be who you are, believe in yourself and don't give up! You can do anything you put your mind to. Its messages we have had to live by that has helped us too in our music career.

SD: Anything else you'd like to add?

Toochi: TOOCHI would like to thank all our supporters, friends and family for sticking by us over the years. We are really excited about our musical path ahead and will continue to provide more TOOCHI tracks for our amazing fanbase. Grab yourself a FFYD T-Shirt and download the track Fight For Your Dream out on ITunes on June 14th!

Keep fighting for your dreams! Love TOOCHI XX

Music: Check out Toochi, the sassy independent duo

2013-12-21T13:25:00.000-08:00

TOOCHI

Dance Music Duo

: Fight For Your Dream: Toochi Twins Chinwe and Chidi.

We commend these girls for making moves on their own terms. Their passion and ambition shines in every lyric and hip movement which is why we selected them as our Artist of the Week!

Named after the two "Chi's" in the group - twins Chidi and Chinwe have launched their third independent video this weekend. Fight For Your Dream was released on iTunes on June 14th.

With support and training from Pinapple Dance Studio, Toochi have tons of dance fans looking out for their videos. Just find their songs I Representand S.O.S on Youtube to discover for yourselves.

Also it has to be admired that the duo have studied their craft and learnt the business side of the music industry. They are involved in every aspect of the creative process and run their own label. They are a 24-hour power-house of energy and determination!

You can check out our exclusive interview with the girls here - where they dish out on the experiences independent artists face.

For everyone fighting for their dream - Toochi are inspirational ones to follow.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD_K_2d4Egc]
BUY THE SINGLE: FIGHT FOR YOUR DREAM VISIT THEIR WEBSITE: TOOCHI OFFICIAL CONNECT WITH THEM: @TOOCHIMUSIC

June 2013: Book of the week - The Fire Within, Spiritual Suspense Story

2013-12-21T13:21:00.001-08:00

The Fire Within

by Marcus Asutaitis

Despite being out just over a couple of weeks, The Fire Within has gone on to hit number one in Amazon's New Age best-seller list and number two in their Personal Improvement chart!

Marcus has written a fantastic book from his own unique perspective about the power of positive thinking.

: The Fire Within: An Amazon top seller@thefirewithin13

It must be working - as the book has been gaining a lot of good attention and gleaming reviews for its story of spirituality, reality and perception.

Marcus announced in his press release: "I am receiving overwhelmingly-positive responses from readers."

"Young people tend to love the positive message and adults love the change in perception they experience when they really take in the positive message of the book".

We love Marcus' whole aura and we can't wait for our copy to arrive in the post!

Available in Kindle format as well as paper-back, you can borrow the book from the official Kindle library. JUST MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR HANDS ON A COPY!

The Fire Within: Spiritual Suspense Story is available on kindle here and can be purchased from Barnes & Noble, as well as other select outlets around the world.

Congratulations Marcus!

Website: Marcus Roberts Twitter: @MarcusRoberts30 & @TheFireWithin13

Books: Review of Fighter by @MarcusRoberts30

2013-12-21T13:11:00.000-08:00

Marcus Roberts is an upcoming actor whose name you should be hearing a lot more of soon. However, he is also a profound writer who we have been happy to read and review. As a contemporary artist, it's so refreshing to see that 2013 has brought the arts back to life and we are so proud that he has become a successful part of our journey...

FIGHTER by Marcus Asutaitis - @MarcusRoberts30

With four books under his belt from self-help, poetry and drama; author Marcus Asutaitis presents an action-packed (and sometimes sexy) short story in "Fighter”. We are quickly introduced to protagonist Peter, whose enormous magnetism charms all the girls. This is matched equally by his aloofness, as his loyalty remains with his disabled mother. The book moves along quickly; its 52 pages stripping at Peter’s layers through a series of pivotal events. "Fighter" reads like it is the preview into the psyche of the mysterious and handsome leading man and endears you to Asutaitis, the author, who has much more story in him to tell.

Selina Ditta

Get this book on Amazon now, click here to take you directly to the page.

Profile: UK actor Sid Akbar Ali

2013-12-21T13:06:00.003-08:00

: Sid Akbar Ali - actor starring in the upcoming BIFA award-winning film; Strings

SID AKBAR ALI

Actor

Sid Akbar Ali's debut film-role is in the award-winning BIFA film Strings - hitting cinemas this coming September!

It could be a huge turning point in his career, which is why he is our Artist of the Week. The film has been ascertained by Vertigo Films (The Sweeney); a great achievement so our huge congratulations!

[vimeo 35013518 w=200 h=200]

Having just finished his UK and European Tour of the film; he is now throwing himself into a variety of work - mostly theatre - as that's where his passion lies. He has made appearances in various short films, music videos and theatre pieces. Most notably he starred in the original play Muslamic Love Story, directed by Nick Ahad last year, and he has recently starred in the BBC 3 extravaganza, Bollywood Carmen.

Since graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2011, he now works professionally within the industry. He is passionate, driven and most of all professional. His personality is one not to miss - he's larger than life and loves meeting and working with people in the industry.

Sid is currently being represented by Actors Direct and will soon be rehearsing for his latest tour of a new play titled True Colors.

Keep an eye on this superstar, he's gonna be big!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_GiRX9bpWA&w=300&h=315]

Twitter: @sidakbarali

Web: Sid Akbar Ali

Spotlight: 0618-8941-5606

Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/actingissues

Strings Links:

BIFA AWARD: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbvaeVR-ZBE

Strings Trailer: http://vimeo.com/35013518

Strings Q&A: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXJVacctbh8

Feature: Make up artist Charlotte Burgess Steele

2013-12-21T12:16:00.000-08:00

CHARLOTTE BURGESS STEELE

: Photography: Monika MoniaPhoto, MUA: Charlotte's Make UP, Styling: Rose Perkins - FashionSistas, Model: Vivian Vanda Varga Garment: £POA from Fashionsistas - ring 0121 6078250

With a diploma in Fashion and Photographic Make-up behind her, Charlotte's skill has landed her work on Top Model UK (2013) and numerous photo shoots.

Charlotte is an official make-up artist for FashionSistas. She works on set for their V.I.P services, at their photo-shoots and she is part of a team scheduled to create looks for models at a massive Prince's Trust show during London Fashion Week.

This wonderful artist also works on projects in the community. One of those causes benefits Help for Heroes - Charlotte expands:

"I have been asked by a photographer I worked with a few times previously, if I would give up my time to be a part of different fundraisers to help gain publicity for a 2015 calendar.

"All the models will have links to the armed forces and I will be doing the makeup on the shoots. The style of the calendar is Vintage pin-up, so lots of 40's and 50's looks. Very exciting and for such a worthwhile cause – we are aiming to raise over £2000".

We also asked Charlotte to tell us more about a moving post she wrote on Facebook about uplifting women diagnosed with cancer with make-up sessions:

"I also give up my time (just a few hours each month) for something called 'Look Good... Feel Better' which is the Beauty Industries charity. We go and teach the most incredibly brave ladies with cancer/recovering from the awful illness how to do their makeup and look after their skin. It is so worthwhile and I couldn't think of anything better to do with my time".

We love the variety that Charlotte creates for her shoots, such as In The Wild (pictured top), and the tribal look she created pictured below.

: Photography: Monika MoniaPhoto, MUA: Charlotte's Make UP, Styling: Rose Perkins, FashionSistas, Model: Yanique fabulosity Taylor, Garment: £POA from FashionSistas - ring: 0121 6078250

They show just how bold and versatile she can be.

We think her work displays a certain je ne sais quoi that is edgy, subtle and perfect.

It's not just the charitable causes and FashionSistas events keeping her busy up and down the country - she will also be working with an award-winning stylist from the west Midlands on up-and-coming fashions shows -so book this busy woman when you can!

She enjoys creating stunning make-up looks to enhance natural beauty whether it's for fashion, vintage, bridal or for all occasions.

Visit her business page here to keep up with Charlotte's top products and to feel inspired by lots of feel good anecdotes she shares. Plus she posts some really creative experimental shots that will have you mesmerised.

We vouch for her ourselves - she was the MUA for A.C's V.I.P session at FashionSistas which you can read about (and see more photos) here.

Live art happening

2013-12-21T12:11:00.000-08:00

: Love is/Careful footsteps - a performance art 'happening' by Rebecca Corn

Love is/Careful footsteps

A performance art 'happening'

by Rebecca Corn

If you find the painting above breathtaking, then play the Youtube teaser below to witness a live art 'happening' (look out for a full video release, including an interview and live footage, later this month). This way of creating can bring out the most amazing results - whether it's in a group or solo setting - and this example from Rebecca Corn has got our eyes dancing and our brains ticking!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic5Bvbs1ibA&w=300&h=315]

Rebecca is a multi-disciplined mixed media and mixed medium artist. She includes psychotherapy and peace building themes within dance, music, poetry, sculpture and performance. Her work is attracting attention - especially since being selected as one of nine up-and-coming artists showcased by the Royal Opera House's "What's Next?" exhibition last October.

She was one of 30 artists selected for the In Art We Trust Summer Show 2013, and in addition was specially requested to perform this happening on the final day. This piece is Rebecca's celebration of the human spirit. She describes it as an interpretation of ideas of love and pride through the messy chaos of existence.

She said:

"It's about human resilience, how we find connection, with ourselves, with each other, with the things that speak to our soul - like music or dance or painting - and how this helps us find a path through life despite all the injustices, the vulnerability, objectification and violence"

A wonderfully talented lady - go show your support and get involved somehow because all of us want to after seeing this!

Be Creative - Studio

Twitter: @BeClever

Facebook: www.fb.com/AddictedToBeing

Black Cat Arts, Gallery / Shop / Art School

Twitter: @BlackCatArts

Facebook: www.fb.com/BlackCatArts

Beautiful Change - Non profit Arts and Education Project

Twitter: @BeYouFullChange

Facebook: www.fb.com/BeYouTeaFullChange

September 2013: Featured Work of the Week: A closer look at the intricate artwork of Felicia Charles

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Here we have personally selected out of our amazing colleagues' work, what is the one piece of work that has stood out this week

Our choice this week is... Midas Touch and All That Glitters

Felicia Charles is a self-taught artist and an interior designer.

Some of her work is currently for sale, displayed at the Arts Café in Leeds and she has other exhibitions in the pipeline.

Her pieces have interesting layers which give a vintage look and a contemporary feel. It was hard for us to pick just one favourite - so in an A Creation first - we picked two which we wanted to learn more about.

: Felicia Charles: Midas Touch - mixed media and gold leaf

Midas Touch was awe-inspiring to look at.

The result of using recycled paints from several of Felicia's previous workshops has gifted the piece with an unusual mixture of paints and various kinds of brush strokes. Felicia explained: "I love to give items another lease of life, especially when they are destined for the rubbish pile".

Also, her use of gold leaf in Midas Touch is breathtaking as it is the most delicate of materials. Felicia said: "You literally have to hold your breath as you work with it and you only get one shot, with a lot of patience, accuracy and a steady hand. The results are beautiful and very rewarding though".

"In all of my work I like to build upon layers, playing with textures to create a sense of depth that draws the viewer in deeper."

: All That Glistens: Mixed media

All That Glistens is one of her many works which incorporate mixed materials. The bead-work on it blew us away and Felicia expanded that it has broken pieces of jewellery from all over the world mixed in to its design.

"I find the processes within my work as fascinating as the finished pieces are each step-laden with the detailed sensuous application of every-day materials denied re-use. Textures are indulgently built up, creating an irresistible temptation to step closer and touch."

Felicia creates in her two floor apartment which doubles up as her studio. We are sure, with her rising reputation that she'll soon have the space of her dreams.

Visit Felicia Charles's exhibition at the Arts Cafe Leeds until Monday September 9th and keep up-to-date with her on twitter.

Collaboration: Creating a website turns out top results!

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: Bee's Buzzing Honeycomb designed by Austrine in association with A Creation

Our good friend, writer Busrah Osmanoglu, asked us for help in creating an easy-to-read website for her portfolio of work. Check out the results over at Bee's Buzzing Honeycomb, thanks to the design of our wonderful colleagues over at Austrine.

: About Busra Osmanoglu: Bee's Buzzing Honeycomb

Get in touch with us for a consultation if you want to upgrade your online presence. Thanks to all the creative contacts we have acquired, we can tailor our packages to suit your needs.

These are the basics of what's on offer:-

PP1.
Website.
Let us create your website to sell yourself in the most artistic yet professional way. Busrah got Bee's Buzzing Honeycomb looking just how she wanted it!
£150*

PP2.
Social Media.

Not familar with the social media networking? Or familiar with it and too tired to maintain it all? Even if you have some social media profiles already, we will amend them for slick professional results.
£50*

PP3.
Headshots/Portfolio Shots.
Photos are so important when applying for any arts industry job (in-front/behind the screens)! We have collaborated with photographers up and down the UK to bring you some fantastic and hard to beat packages, (international photographers also available on request). Don't forget to mention your location!

PP4.
Show-Reel/Film/Video.
Our colleagues around the world will create you professional/industry standard products. Quotes are available through our Contact Us page, if you get in touch with us mentioning all your project details and location information.

PP5.
Website and Social Media.
Discuss your branding with us in a consultation and we can create you a website and link it with professional social networking profiles.
£185*

PP6.
Pro Combo.

The ultimate package includes us creating your website, setting up your social networking professional profiles, arranging your headshots, and putting together your showreels. Together, with our collaborative teams across the UK, we are able to offer this set-up at fantastic prices (depending on your location). Please get in touch

*Please note:-

The management have the right to withdraw package offers/promotions at any time.
All packages/prices above depend on what you require but these will be discussed/agreed at the time of contract.
Prices will only increase should you be requiring more than the offer we state in our final agreement contract.
We do offer services of maintaining your website/social media. If this is required, we are more than happy to do so with a charge of £10 p/h, or, if regular maintenance is required (i.e. monthly/yearly), we will be more than happy to arrange a discount.
Please note you are still able to get a free profile on our site without purchasing any package from us and we will still continue to give you some free promotion, please get in touch with us through our Contact Us page for more information.

Layercake and a cup of tea - Our day out with Lineone Films

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[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ced1DJ5-xvU&w=420&h=315]

This is a lighthearted vlog on A Creation's journey home last Thursday after meeting Phil Howard, a former bad boy who turned his life around thanks to film-making.

Madness ensued on the late train back to Leeds. Since no trolley came along it was quite a quest to get a cup of tea. We even came up with an advert to pitch to Yorkshire Tea (that may have been the tiredness ) which randomly involved music from R. Kelly - but it made complete sense at the time!

It was a day of travelling, gangsters, film-chat, and bringing the heat!

Phil Howard - Line One Films and Jog on Son Productions

Phil Howard, from Brentwood, Essex found himself on a life support machine two years ago and when given a second chance at life, he decided to put his acquired fortune from a dodgy past in to the craft of film-making.

: Mr H - Phil Howard, from Brentwood to Eastenders and beyond

When we arrived at London's Kings Cross we headed to Temple to locate Phil's office on the HMS Service boat on Victoria Embankment.

Those who know the slow-moving Circle tube line can imagine the conditions on that gloriously hot day.

Phil, incognito, took us to the WalkAbout to tell us how he's turning his past life into a film.

We don't want to give too much away about why and how Phil was attacked as it will be in his film, but it was in 2010 that his life changed.

He admits, he's lucky he has money - but he gives back to those struggling in the industry offering advice and his office to those who reach out.

: EastEnders (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

He obtained his Film-making degree from the MetFilm School at Ealing studios and is now a director of scenes consultant for Eastenders at Elstree studios.

He said: "I like to direct gangster scenes in Eastenders as I've had my own dealings".

His outlook on life and the arts is much in tune with us here at A Creation - he is going for his dreams and helping others.

Phil is directing a film based on his own eventful life which he compares to Layercake and Revolver and we are definitely championing his endeavours.

Check out his website, IMDB page and connect with him on Twitter.

#LFW SS14: FashionSistasUK collection - Saturday 14 September 2013

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LFW 2013: 13th-17th September 2013

FashionSistas are debuting a cutting edge collection at The Angels of Fashion London Fashion Week - in Aid of The Prince's Trust

Rose Perkins, manager of FashionSistas, is a Prince's Trust Ambassador mentoring young people from 18-30 in fashion and creative arts.

Based in Birmingham, Rose will be working at a grassroots level, linking up with local schools in the inner city to encourage children in pursuing their dreams.

She also takes on interns to develop their creative training and business skills.

Progress - new avenues - networking - thinking outside of the box - creating my own opportunities not waiting for opportunity knocks.
- Rose Perkins, August 2013

Her current intern reached out to her through word-of-mouth recommendation and within two weeks began making jewellery and custom clothing with Rose, who explained: "She has her own business so I'm mentoring her on the job and referring her to the Prince's Trust". Together they have been customising special black and gold pieces, for the "Iconic Fashion" themed event for the Angels of Fashion show on Saturday.

Always pushing the thread to create edgy designs:

FashionSistas are expanding horizons and collaborating with international talent including Hungarian Szimonetta Sabo, (Las Vegas Fashion Week 2013) and Israeli designer Racheli Titan.

Rose said: "We have some amazing future ongoing projects so watch this space. Theres so much going on but some of it is secret so i don't want to say too much".

: FashionSistas cutting edge shoot

FashionSistas also donates regularly to the Birmingham Heart Foundation in the city centre. Rose said: "We are planning to give back by myself and my intern volunteering a few hours a month in the city centre store."

We can't get enough of FashionSistas' photo shoots, it's more than just wanting the look, it's the feeling that emanates from within the picture, and there's an art to it.

Call Rose at the Birmingham boutique for a FREE consultation on 0121 607 8250, whether you want to book a pampering session or enquire on her work with the Prince's Trust.

Competition: In honour of London Fashion Week, we have teamed up with @FashionSistasUK #lfw read more (acreationblog.wordpress.com)
London Fashion Week prepares to kick off (savemoney247.co.uk)
London Fashion Week: Events for the Public (rohma0malik.wordpress.com)

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It's hard to believe London Fashion Week is over!

: Team AC dressed exclusively in FashionSistas at London Fashion Week

We are still recovering from the roaring success our colleague Rose Perkins -FashionSistas CEO - had in debuting her "R 'n' R Back to Black collection" last Saturday at The Angels of Fashion show in support of The Prince's Trust.

The evening was organised to benefit The Prince's Trust by Savita Kaye of Lady K media who said: "I want the world to celebrate together and witness never seen creations. This platform will help many designers as a springboard to the next level without spending thousands of pounds. Also, gives the next generation of designers hope that their collection can have the same media/press platform like the top designers around the world."

Rose herself is a Prince's Trust ambassador, supporting 18-30 year-olds. The R 'n' R collection is in collaboration with designers such as Szimonetta Szabó, and a young intern, Rukhsana, who Rose is currently mentoring in business and fashion.

: Szimonetta Szabó (right) will tell us more about her fantastic jumpsuit soon. Stay tuned

Szimonetta told us: "I met Rose in February at an event. I was wearing one of my own dresses which Rose loved and ordered for her store. We have been working together since".

Rose auditioned an eclectic mix of stunning models to represent her experimental designs. They all had a funky step in their walk and a couple of the girls showed off the comfort and versatility of the garments through dance. During rehearsals, Rose told the models: "Tell a story through movement".

FashionSistas' outstanding catwalk told a story to Amy Winehouse "Back to Black", Jay-Z and Kanye West "Otis" and Jay - Z and Justin Timberlake "Holy Grail".

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5ak-sa0lbY&w=420&h=315]

The outro was particularly fun, as Rose - who usually likes to stay out of the spotlight - was given her plaudits on the runway and was encouraged to replicate the "Back to Black" dance-off!

The collection sparked a lot of interest with incoming sales and the success of the night extended to two of FashionSistas' models being scouted. One of those is Hungarian Vivian Vanda Varga who spoke to us: "I have worked with Rose on and off, it was really competitive I had to audition for her via video link and I was so glad to make it, I've made good contacts here at London Fashion Week". Her look is other-worldly.

: Vivian modelling the leopard-zebra print dress exclusive to FashionSistas

Now the FashionSistas journey is expanding in full hip-thrusting motion - they have been inundated with requests across the UK and internationally - they have even been in talks about going to New York and Paris so get styled by them as soon as you can!

FashionSistas are based in Birmingham but travel to accommodate groups. Call Rose on 0121 607 8250 to book a consultation in-store or for a pampering party. She hosts V.I.P treatment events which cater to your music, refreshments, hair, make-up and style needs.