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CSM Talks to Published Author Nikki Turner

Features, Interviews No Responses »
May 232010

Over the last 7 years, author Nikki Turner has put glamour and grit in the life of even the dullest housewife with her tales of love, sex, money, and murder. Often referred to as “The Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction,” the Richmond, VA native is busy promoting her latest novel, Relapse. In an interview with City Scenes Magazine, The New York Times and Essence magazine best selling author speaks on her publishing company, working with 50 Cent, and gives advice to writers hoping to be the next Nikki Turner:

CSM: How did you come to writing this genre of books?

NT: Well actually, I was an avid reader, and I always used to go to the bookstore looking for books similar to the ones I like to read, and there were no books like that. So I decided, “Hmmm, maybe I’ll write a book that I want to read.”

CSM: What was your first book?

NT: A Hustler’s Wife.

CSM: Was that on the The New York Times Best Seller list?

NT: Back then, our books weren’t going to The New York Times, but it was on Essence’s list for over a year at #1.

CSM: How do you come up with the characters for your books?

NT: I put a lot of thought into them. I want them to be real life people with life experiences and life situations, so I put a lot of thought into coming up with them.

CSM: Are any of the characters inspired by people you know?

NT: Loosely based combined with my imagination. Sometimes something can happen, big or small, and I can be like, “Okay, now what if this didn’t happen, and that happened?” And I just mix it up and be like, “Hmmm, maybe I can put it in a book.”

CSM: Tell us a little bit about your publishing company – it’s under Random House, correct?

NT: It’s like a label; do you know how it was like Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella?

CSM: Yes.

NT: Well its like Random House and “Nikki Turner Presents…”.

CSM: Give us some of the titles released so far by the publishing company.

NT: Gorilla Black, which is by Seven, Against the Grain by Freeze, Numbers by Dana Dane, and Invincible by Styles P.

CSM: Now you mention Dana Dane and Styles P…tell us a little bit about how your collaborating with hip-hop artists began?

NT: I think it kind of started with 50 [Cent] because he wanted to write a book with me, and I just think that maybe I’m kind of like the closest thing, you know, people know, “I want to write a book, let me go see Nikki Turner.”

CSM: How was it working with 50?

NT: He was an absolute jewel. He was very easy-going; he let me drive as far as the creative control of the book. What his people    wanted me to do and what I wanted to do was a little different, but he was like, “Let her do what she do, let her get in her comfort zone and do what she do so it can be great.” And just the whole writing process, it was a good one. I never had any problems with him. And the thing with him is he’s a beast when it comes to business; he always dropped little jewels to me.

CSM: Whenever I read your books, I envision them on the big screen; any plans for that to happen in the near future?

NT: Oh yeah, there’s always plans for that. A few of my books have been optioned; even Death Before Dishonor, the book 50 and I did together was recently optioned. So you know, we’re just waiting; Hollywood moves slow.

CSM: Now we talked about this previously…in your books, there are repercussions for all of the characters and their actions.  Why do you think that is important?

NT: Because in life, there are repercussions. You can’t give the world s*it and expect to get sugar back.

CSM: Tell us a little bit about the latest book, Relapse?

NT: Relapse is about Beijing Lee, who is a very successful, renowned concierge at a huge hotel chain, and she only caters to the rich and famous clients, and some of their requests are very bizarre. But she makes it happen; she can make anything happen. The only thing she can’t in her own life is make her love affair with this guy work. He’s like a drug to her; he gives her the highs of the highs and the lows of the lows. They break up, go back together, break up, go back together, and every time they break up, it’s not like they break up tonight and go back tomorrow. It’s long periods of time in between them breaking up, and every time she goes back, she keeps asking herself why do I keep going back. When they break up, she goes through the withdrawal, rehabs, and you know, staying clean, not calling him, not being around him, and then he shows back up, and it’s like a relapse.

CSM: Why make Beijing a concierge?

NT: ‘Cause I just feel like it was amazing. I didn’t want her to really be an assistant; I wanted her to be an upscale assistant, and you know she can make it happen. That’s a concierge, they make it happen, and a lot of us, we sleep on the concierge.

CSM: Can we expect to read about Beijing again?

NT: Of course.

CSM: How would someone go about submitting a piece to your publishing company?

NT: Well “Nikki Turner Presents…” we’re not taking any submissions. I am bombarded with submissions so I’m not taking any unsolicited submissions right now. But hopefully we’ll open up for submissions at the top of the year.

CSM: When you’re looking through submissions, what makes you look twice?

NT: Of course when I open it, I don’t want to see mistakes in it off the break. It has to be a story that’ll make me stop whatever I’m doing – I’m a reader by nature – so you know, if something grabs my attention in spite of all the other crazy stuff I’ve got going on, then it’s a keeper.

CSM: Does “Nikki Turner Presents…” only cater to this genre of books?

NT: Basically, this genre, but this genre to the next level.

CSM: Any advice for aspiring writers?

NT: I think before they submit anything to anyone, they should have it in the best possible condition. Proof read it; don’t just rush through it. They should really take the time to make it the best possible piece it can be.

Be sure to get your copy of Relapse wherever books are sold.

Posted by The Hip Hop Socialite at 7:36 am

Dollaz Unlimited’s New Artist : Vaughn Anthony

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May 152010

Vaughn Anthony aka “Mr. Everything” has performed and captivated audiences worldwide with his stellar performances and universal good looks. Vaughn has opened up for Grammy Award Winning Artists John Legend and India Irie in cities all over the world, in the biggest arenas and venues. Grateful for the opportunity to share his talent with those audiences, Vaughn has began a journey that will prove that he comes from a place that legends are made of.

For everyone under the sun there is a set path, a journey that we must travel. Every person has to find their niche and even when you think you have found it, the universe may open up a whole new world that affords you opportunities beyond belief…such is the situation for the young, handsome recording artist who is the debut artist of John Legends’ HomeSchool Records. Vaughn Anthony initially had no interest in using his melodic voice to make music. Vaughn would use it more as a tool to impress the ladies. Realizing that he could impress a grander audience he made the organized steps to launch a career in music. Three years later Vaughn is satisfied with his decision as he has recently wrapped up an opening spot on John Legend’s Evolver World Tour and is ready to drop his own album.

Vaughn was born and raised in Springfield, Ohio into an extremely gifted and grounded musical family. Vaughn was home-schooled by his parents for a short time which proved to be a very rewarding experience. His family is multi-talented and encouraged Vaughn to search inside of himself and cultivate all the talents to become a successful and well rounded adult. Singing and writing music are only at the beginning of his talent resume. As an athlete, artist, actor and singer/songwriter, his many talents made it difficult for him to focus on only one. The sacrifices his parents made have proven to be well worth the effort. Today Vaughn Anthony is at the threshold of a budding music career. He feels that every sacrifice, every step, every song he wrote, every prayer he’s prayed has brought him to where he is today!

As he sits in the studio with his production team and his older brother, he is excited because he has invested the time and effort that it takes to launch a career in music. He is a man with immense talent but a humble spirit which is a delight to the fans that he meets and the writers that interview him and meet him at his performances. After spending time singing background for John Legend he was invited by John to sign with HomeSchool Records, even then he didn’t rush to break out into the spotlight. Vaughn understands the importance of creating his own signature sound and delivery. His music is very honest and he knows that people can appreciate the songs he writes and can relate because his music conveys genuine feelings. You can hear his honesty in the song “In Your Shoes” a sincere melodic ballad which describes the emotions of a man that is ready to walk in the shoes of the woman he has done wrong to better understand her pain, which was written by Vaughn. He has the keen ability to portray real life emotions and messages into beautiful music. This took time, a process he does not regret because he knows he has to make a BIG impression to follow in the footsteps paved before him. Today he is ready. “It’s now or never”, he says!!

Vaughn has some strong hip-hop collaboration on his resume such as a duet with his label mate Estelle on a song titled Paragraphs of Love for Ghostface’s recent album. He also recorded a song titled It’s ‘Alright’ with Rick Ross. Vaughn says very matter of fact, “It’s very important for me to define myself as a solo artist, my sound is my own, my music is my own.” These feelings stem from the fact that not only is Vaughn housed under John Legends label HomeSchool Records, he is also John Legends younger brother and for that he must constantly respond to comments that “he sounds just like his brother”. Vaughn Anthony is never discouraged by this observation and after reading a recent blog, Vaughn jokingly replied “Someone has already said that BE CREATIVE”!! Vaughn stays focused on the fact that his voice is a family blessing and he is convinced that he creates different music than his brother whom he has incredible respect and admiration for. “I support my brother on everything he does and I appreciate all the support he has shown for my career in music as well…it’s only natural”. The opportunity for Vaughn to flex his vocal muscle and show his versatility has become apparent in his newly recorded songs such as “One thing on my mind”, “Come Home with Me” and “Birthday Suit”. Each song shows a different side of VA who has been referred to as “Mr. Everything” because of his ability to excel in so many areas of his life. When asked who he is inspired by Vaughn first thanks God for his talents then lists John Legend as an inspiration along with some musical greats such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, D’angelo, Joe and The Winans.

Vaughn’s life has changed now that he is focusing on his music career. He has shifted gears and his schedule consists of traveling and performing at his shows, studio sessions, writing sessions, photo shoots and interviews. He interacts with his fans via Twitter and Facebook and assures them that there support is not in vain. His recently formed Street/Promo Team TeamVAnthony2010 has people nationwide working to promote and spread the message that The Future is upon us…

The opportunity for Vaughn to flex his vocal muscle and show his versatility has become apparent in his newly recorded songs such as “One thing on my mind”, “Come Home with Me” and “Birthday Suit”. Each song shows a different side of VA who has been referred to as “Mr. Everything” because of his ability to excel in so many areas of his life. When asked who he is inspired by Vaughn first thanks God for his talents then lists John Legend as an inspiration along with some musical greats such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, D’angelo, Joe and The Winans.
Vaughn recently signed with music mogul Rich Dollaz’ Management firm Dollaz Unlimited. With the strategic direction of Dollaz spearheading Vaughn’s career, success is inevitable.  Dollaz is responsible for breaking the careers of new artist such as Ryan Leslie, Cassie, Cheri Dennis, Gorilla Zoe and Krys Ivory.  Dollaz is currently working with Ryan Leslie, Olivia and Krys Ivory.

“I would like to welcome Vaughn to the Dollaz Unlimited team and look forward to working with him and the Home School team in creating a brand in Vaughn that’s musically successful but even more importantly well rounded and spiritually founded”, states Dollaz.

Vaughn just released his EP titled “The Future” which is now available on ITunes and Amazon. The Future is just a sample of his talent and range. Log on to www.vaughnanthonymusic.com for all of the updates. ”Mr. Everything” has toured relentlessly all over the world preparing audiences for what is to come. Vaughn Anthony is destined to change the R&B world as we know it and become a household name.

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Posted by celeBREty Bish at 6:39 pm Tagged with: , ,

OnTheRise: Maff Test

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May 082010

From a life on the streets all the way to a successful music career, the last few years have been an amazing adventure for MAFF TEST. Born Jason D. Frazier, on September 20, 1984, TEST endured a disturbed childhood before experiencing anything remotely resembling what we perceive as success. Providing the briefest details about being neglected at an early age by his mother, who suffered with an addiction and an absent father who was around only from time to time, had it not been for his grandmother, he might have become a ward of the state. Raised in a religious – low income household, he would often keep to himself, deep in thought about how he could make it out of his current living situation.

When asked the details of his life, TEST simply states that he was from “Harvey, Illinois” and then tells reporters to do their own research and be the judge. Reporters found Harvey to be a poverty stricken suburban city of 3 or 4 projects, corrupted law enforcement, complete with gang and drug pollution. Later in life, TEST’s street pals would nickname him YOUNG HARVEY, since he is the first to represent their city by “putting it on the map.” While he doesn’t talk much about his painful early years, fans learn about his childhood as his struggles are often expressed through his songs.

In the early days of rap, TEST wrestled with the transition from the streets to the music industry, although it was obvious right from the start, he had a way with words. But TEST was not inclined to choose music, since he was sure it wouldn’t provide a comfortable life. Hustling simply to survive, he sought the few extras in other income producing forms that he believed he could never obtain working at a 9 to 5. Before long, he was addicted to the fast life, one that provided not only for himself, but for his family as well. But, his family and friends observed his incredible ability to create, not only a verse here and there, but richly filled complete songs with very little effort. Seeing his huge potential, they encouraged him to take music more seriously. However, TEST felt that rapping wouldn’t pay him what he yearned for, although “rap” was in his blood. Before long he began investing his free time in his music, all while continuing to work on alternative forms of income.

It wasn’t until 2003 when Lockout Recording Studio was established by TEST that he began recording his own music and completing hit records. To subsidize a legitimate income, he got involved in real estate and later rented out the studio to local and national artists at an hourly rate, which gave him the freedom to continue with his music. With very few influences in his life, TEST had no problem staying focused and looked only to himself for inspiration. With the hottest producer anyone could find by his side, it was only a matter of time before he would become known. To say that MAFF TEST has since achieved many goals would be an understatement, although along the way he lost many associates who only slowed him down with mediocrity.

In his highly anticipated album, “Fail or Succeed,” TEST displayed the characteristics of a “TRUE RAP HEAVYWEIGHT.” With critics saying his skills are beyond equal to many of today’s acts, he is a true lyricist delivering incredible narration of street/night life. He combines pain and struggle through clever metaphors fueled by raw energy and confidence. To quote TEST: “I bring forth significant realism and add in a sense of security that demonstrates I’m not afraid to be myself. People accept you as you are, not some made up image that appears as something you’re not. Many artists are too busy trying to live up to public expectations or try to be what they think man wants him to be, look like, act like or sound like as opposed to being their own unique selves. To me, there’s no need to try to change my past…. I am what I am, who I was and where I’m from. It is what it is. The way I look at it RAP was a way out for me and that works.

TEST has since recorded and released the mixed tape Big Bizness, Volume 1, hosted by DJ Khaled, complete with 31 tracks. In 2008, he had 20 thousand copies duplicated and replicated and at least 2,500 in house copies created with a CD Duplicator. The sale of Big Bizness Volume 1 increased street sales and revenue for Lockout Records, dramatically allowing the company TEST owned to double its gross income compared to the prior year.

MAFF TEST has traveled from state to state with a dozen of his childhood friends and supporters, who either share the same dream or drastically believe in him as an artist. He has given his pals a chance to get away from the hood and see something different by traveling to places like Miami, Atlanta, New York, California, Ohio and Arizona, all while selling mixed tapes and campaigning for his music.  He targets areas where he believes people will understand and adopt his music and lifestyle, hitting all major events where large crowds gather such as super bowl weekends, Hip Hop awards and Memorial Day weekends thus making CD sales far easier.  He treats his mixed tapes much like albums, releasing videos, documentaries and singles such as Big Bizness, Bos Ville and Flip Rock.

With all the things going on in the world many things are uncertain, but one thing is for sure: the industry is desperately in need of the fresh breath of air this young, talented, ex-hustler has to offer, so stay tuned for a lot more from MAFF TEST.

For More Information on Maff Test visit  him on   www.myspace.com/mafftestmusic or www.twitter.com/mafftest

Posted by Gardner Craig at 1:43 pm Tagged with: , , , ,

OnTheRise: Willie Jones

Features 1 Response »
May 082010

Willie Jones "I'm Ready"

Willie Jones, was born in East Saint Louis, Illinois. He began singing at the age of six in his church choir, in which he was chosen as the lead. He also developed an awesome talent for the drums and would often rotate from the drums to the microphone. While growing up, Willie embraced a passion for songwriting and composing, which would become an outlet to escape inner city struggles. At the age of twelve Willie introduced his first written gospel song to his youth choir and the song became a hit within his church organization as well as other outside churches. His success writing gospel songs for his youth choir would become short lived because he found himself struggling with two different lifestyles, church and the streets. Pressure in his neighborhood streets of Washington Park/East St. Louis was forcing him to become more like everyone else in those streets. He found himself living a double life of performing for God while living a street life. He became a witness to a lot of crime and violence, which resulted in the loss of close friends and family. Willie was hit extremely hard when his close cousin Tony Holloway was killed in a drive-bye. Tony’s death would trigger a new heightened passion in Willie to concentrate on writing, performing, and perfecting his instrument playing.
After high school Willie decided to pursue his music ministry full time. Willie formed the contemporary gospel group EAC (Excited About Christ) where he was the lead vocalist, writer and co-producer. He hooked up with long time friend and high school ban partner, Theo Harden for instrumentation assistance and his brother, Louis Harden, for production assistance. The three of them formed the production group known as MD or the Muzic Doctorz. The group wrote all the songs for EAC and began to perform and open from many gospel artists including Donnie McClurkin, Tonex, Hubbard Spearmen, Lashun Pace, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Hezekiah Walker, Kirk Franklin, Ce Ce Winans, John P Kees, Bobby Jones and recently opened for Integrity/Columbia’s newest Christian artist Freddy Rodriguez!
Gospel Group EAC disbanded and Willie later went solo as Willie J. He and his production crew MD set out to develop a unique sound for music by mixing different cultural elements of music and melodies to hard urban hip-hop beats. For years they traveled to many musical cities and conventions shopping demos for and track for other artist. They eventually hooked up with former Universal recording artist, Pretty Willie who fell in love with their unique sound and wanted them to produce his next independent project with his new company WilFlo Records. While producing Pretty Willie now known as P Dub, Willie J pursued a drum career on the side while creating a new sound for his music. Willie J’s songs became edgier and the lyrical topics became more transparent with real testimonies of his personal struggles of living Christian life in this new day and age. Willie’s edgy urban Christian music created a buzz in church youth group ministries throughout East Saint Louis and Saint Louis.
Coincidentally his talents on the drums became recognized in two international drum magazines, Modern Drummer and Drumm Magazine around the same time. Willie J started to receive a lot of attention from local St. Louis news stations, radio stations, and every local St. Louis professional drum endorsement deals, such as Paiste, Evans and Regal Tip. He also received numerous offers from independent record labels in which he is yet to sign until all possible options are explored. After ten years of grinding ,Willie J and MD Productions credits consist of two number one singles with St. Louis recording artist Pretty Willie aka P Dub. They also have a credit with his most recent hit single “Good Thang” on which Willie J plays live drums, acoustic guitar, and piano. They have also had live recording sessions with Lil Zhane,and Cedric the Entertainment. Two major film score credits on Johnson Family Vacation and Waist Deep with hip-hop artist Mac 10. Their latest credit in the gospel industry is with Canton Jones on his latest album.
Willie J is no stranger to the Club scene where he has opened for Mainstream secular artist such as The Young Bloodz (Sean Paul), Lil John East Side Boyz, Lil Zhane, Marcus Houston, Lil Scrappy, New Edition, and Even at the House of Blues with DJ Quick in LA Hollywood!
Willie J also a talented author promoted his latest published book entitled “The Crying Songbird”, which is now available in all major bookstores worldwide. Willie J received a major publishing deal two months after his mother passed of breast cancer. He dedicated his book in memory of her. Since then he has been interviewed by Denine Busby on Foxxy 95.5, Halleuhiah 1600a.m. on the Praise Mix with D. Stone and Warner, 1570a.m. The Light in Atlanta, DA with Saila Rachelle, The St. Louis Post News Paper, The Belleville News-Democrat News Paper, and Channel 11 on the National TV Show (It’s All About Youth). He was the first author to sale out at a major book signing Walden Books and Barnes & Nobles during his book signings. Willie J also has a debut album named, “The Crying Songbird”, which is the soundtrack to his book. He has a single in rotation on gospel stations on St. Louis, Sacramento California, Columbus Georgia, and Kenya Africa! His single entitled “I Don’t Wanna Fall” has been placed on an international compilation project for the nation of Uganda! This compilation consists of various Christian artist from around the country, being entitled “Unified by Grace”. This single has also been reported to saving a 16 year old girl’s life during a suicide attempt. Willie has also had two of his album tracks featured on the Christian reality show “Urban Living” on the BET Jazz station.
Willie J has released three successful mix tapes. One of the mix tapes “The Crying Songbird” sold out in just 3 days in Taiwan while on a 3 week tour opening for a Christian and Praise Worship Group “Harvest” in January 2009! This same mix tape is now doing very well in Kenya Africa! There Willie J will be headlining his first tour sometime in the near future.
Willie J is now getting spins in clubs from his new single “Soul Mate” an edgy love story about how his wife held him down through facing prison time, losing his mother and grandma, hustling on tha block, and nearly losing his life to blade wounds! This song is inspired by his poem entitled “Soul Mate” in his debut book as a national author entitled “The Crying Songbird”! His book has been reported to changing lives in the Prison cells of Connecticut so that they have asked him to come and inspire the inmates through poetry and song! Preparing to release his second novel of poetry and principles later this year. The novel is called “Goodbye Past Hello Future!
His story is not just about sadness. Willie J feels that he has a mission to shining his light back to the hoods globally, providing readers and listeners a sense of hope through his writing of both poetry and song!
Willie J’s latest song titled “IM READY” is clearly a song about the testimony of an evolved individual. “IM READY” has and continues to bring about much attention ranging from radio stations and clubs to features and invites. His hit single “IM READY” has crossed over Main Stream Urban/Hip Hop Radio on stations across the US and have been doing drops and in rotation for mainstream radio in Barcelona Spain, Germany Radio Stations/Clubs, UK London, Australia and also on HOT 103.5 FM WHWT HUNTSVILLE ALABAMA, STAR 106.3 FM KKHR, on THE SATURDAY NIGHT HOT MIX HOUSE PARTY HIP HOP SHOW, 91.5 FM WINTERPARK FLORIDA, MIAMI, SAVANNAH CLUB/RADIO DJS. CLEAR CHANNEL URBAN RADIO STATION WBXT 100.1 THE BEAT will start spinning “IM READY” in April 2010 with Willie J to do an interview with the Clear Channel Bad Girl Venom.
The single “IM READY” was selected to appear on the March Mixtape Maddness 2010 (distributed internationally), Half Time Report hosted by DJ KHALED. Willie J will be featured in the 2010 March Madness issue of the COAST2COASTMAGAZINE an international Hip Hop magazine (available now). The single, “I’m Ready,” was featured on Indy Heat vol: 1 mixtape hosted by Yung LA and sponsored by Grand Hustle.
The single “IM READY” will also appear on “BET’s Spring Bling Mixtape’” hosted by Miami’s BET SPRING BLING DJ CRUNK! Willie j was invited to do two performances at the BET Spring Bling. He will perform in RIVIARA BEACH FLORIDA ON APRIL 9TH, 2010 at 56 ACE CLUBN and on APRIL 11, 2010 at HEADLINING ACT ON FLYERS!
Willie J just signed a Global/International ringtone deal with VIO Mobile Services out of Houston, Texas. He has also joined Red Dahlia PR Firm as one of their newest clients.
Posted by Attica Lundy at 11:56 am Tagged with: , , , ,

On The Rise: Lawdi

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May 052010

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The most important thing about music is being able to feel what you hear. Well, Lawdi almost never had that opportunity. Born in Boston, MA, Lawdi faced the challenge of Bacterial Menigitis, which caused her to lose part of her hearing. Luckily, it didn’t keep her away from her love for music. She grew up in the church, so music was always around her causing her to join the church’s choir with her older sister. Music was her form of expression but always being into sports, Lawdi never took music as a serious career until her brother, Reddy Sauls, invited her to travel down from, Richmond, VA to Raleigh, NC, to get on a track called, “Hot Seat”. Excited by the tracks outcome, Reddy encouraged Lawdi to keep coming up with new material, enabling an opportunity for her to get her own songs. Lawdi took his advice and ran with it, spending her time writing and producing her own material. She once proclaimed she wanted to be a Pop singer, so working through Hip Hop and R&B got her closer to her destiny.
Reddy Sauls formed the label, KQ Records, and brought Lawdi under the helm, realizing her potential to be a special force in music. Reddy told her “you don’t have to be vulgar with the language in order to be involved in Hip Hop”, causing Lawdi to focus on bringing something positive to the music. KQ released their first album, Deadly Zins, as a concept dealing with the “7 Deadly Sins”. Lawdi, along with Reddy and MG the Future, did 7 songs in 7 days, highlighting every sin, but KQ didn’t stop there. With the help of DocSauls and Lawdi’s work ethic, LawdiTunez was released in the beginning of August 2008 with her highlight tracks, “Little Things” and “FreezeNYourSystem”. Lawdi’s main goal is to give her best through music and express her love and passion. 
Released “Back on the Scene” Sept. 2009 on CDBaby.com with hit singles: Move Like That, Attitude, and Them808s.

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Currently:
Program Director & Personality for WVCW Radio
Brand Manager for Crave Couture (www.CraveN4Fashion.com)
VP of KQ Records (“TheQuali”)
CEO of TZARA Inc Public Relations & Marketing (www.TZARAinc.com)
Spokesperson for Stall and Dean apparel (www.StallandDean.com)
 
Contact:
C. “Cash” Archer
Personal Manager
Crazy Cash Inc CEO/Founder
(Management since February 2010)
CrazyCashInc@gmail.com
 
S. “MrReddy” Sauls
Co-Manager & Production
TheQuali CEO/ Founder
ReddySauls@gmail.com
 
Booking (Shows& Appearances):
Contact: CrazyCashInc@gmail.com

Posted by celeBREty Bish at 8:21 am

The Last Certified Shawdy!

Features, InScene, Interviews No Responses »
Apr 262010

When asking CYCO how he would describe his style, he said “I definitely wouldn’t call myself a rapper. I don’t just rap. I do all types of music. I would rather you call me an artist”… Read this and more from this Certified Shawdy in a recent interview with CYCO- Da Prince of Da South.

Where are you from?

I’m from Stone Mountain [East Atlanta Georgia] you already know

Certified Shawdy III is out right now. Will there be another Certified Shawdy?

Naw! This is the last one. I don’t know what I’m gonna do yet but I’ma do something new.
Are you in the studio working on anything right now?
Yea. Yea. I’m working on a couple of mixtapes.
When can we expect an album?
I don’t know. I can’t even answer that but I know that it will be later on this year. It may be around October. If I come out with an album.
Are you not really focusing on doing an album? Are you really wanting to concentrate on your mixtapes?
Yeah. I’m just really trying to catch the streets. Once I get the streets around me [for real, for real] then I will come out with an album.
How long have you been in the rap game?
I guess I would say since I was about 14. I didn’t really start making moves with it until I was 16.
Was this always something that you wanted to do?
I was really into sports. I played football and baseball. This just came out of nowhere. Music wasn’t something that I was into until I was 12.
Have you done any collaborations yet?
Yea. I’ve worked with Alfamega, Killer Mike, Princess, and Montana. Right now I’m working with Archie, Bola from PSC, Mack Boney, a lot of folks.
Is there anyone that you haven’t worked with that you would like to work with in the future?
T.I.P and Luda.
Why T.I.P and Luda?
They are my inspirations [and Eminem.]
Did you have any other inspirations growing up?
Yea. Outkast, Twister, Lauryn Hill, I had a lot of them.
You look young. How old are you?
19.
Is there anything that you have going on right now that you want to touch on?
“Certified Shawdy III, Straight For tha Block Mixtapes.” Just be on the lookout really. I’m still underground Grinding right now.
How would you discribe you style?
I’m just me. I wouldn’t say I’m a rapper because I do all types of music. I do rock-n-roll, I try all types of music so I would say it’s unique. I rather you call me an artist if anything. I just try to do whatever inspires me and what I like. Good music.
Do you have plans for anthing outside of music?
I want to own a label and help other people get on. I’m not trying to jump into acting but if the opportunity came I would do it.
Any words for your fans?
I appreciate you and stick with me because I haven’t made it yet. For you to be a fan now I appreciate it and just stick with me.




www.youtube.com/Cycotv

www.twitter.com/I_Am_Cyco

www.myspace.com/cycomusicpage

CERTIFIED SHAWDY 3 MIXTAPE FREE DWNLD LINK
http://www.zshare.net/download/71184750f0bb3dbd/

Posted by Ms. Informed at 8:44 am Tagged with: , ,

Kat Stacks On Street Disciplez Radio

Features, InScene No Responses »
Apr 192010

As I mentioned in a previous post during Wednesday’s edition of Street Disciplez Radio, my fellow hosts and I spoke to hip-hop groupie Kat Stacks. Check out highlights from that conversation, and stay tuned for video footage of our interview with the legendary Scarface….

Posted by The Hip Hop Socialite at 6:26 am

THHS On The Scene: National Museum of Hip-Hop’s “Hip-Hop Immortal” Event

Events, Features No Responses »
Apr 092010

On Tuesday night, the National Museum of Hip-Hop (NMOHH) hosted its “Hip-Hop Immortal” event at NYC’s Pink Elephant. According to its website, “the Museum plans to acquire land at 149th Street and River Avenue in the Bronx; the purpose of which is to provide space for a museum, a hall of fame facility, galleries, public parks, offices, workshops and more, offering great flexibility for facility planners.” I’m all for establishing a venue where we, who live this culture, can recognize the individuals who made this culture what it is, so my attendance was a no-brainer.

When I arrived at Pink Elephant, the event had not yet begun, and the museum’s PR team was a little behind checking in press. Nevertheless, once we were allowed inside, all was forgotten thanks to the DJ who dedicated the evening to spinning only real hip-hop. After making myself comfortable at one of the club’s tables, I began taking note of the industry luminaries in attendance, including actresses Phyllis Yvonne Stickney of New Jack City and Jungle Fever fame, and Bern Nadette Stanis, best known for her role as Thelma on Good Times. Hip-hop legends Raheim of the Furious Five, Dana Dane, KRS-1, Chuck D, and Wonder Mike of the Sugarhill Gang also made the scene, while I was busy saving a seat for Ice-T and Coco in the roped off VIP area. When they finally arrived, I noticed Ras Kass was with them, and I quickly introduced myself; he being based on the West Coast, I was a little surprised to run into him hanging out in NYC. Introduction out of the way, I sat back and enjoyed the impromptu performance from Jeru the Damaja and set from the legendary DJ Premier on the 1s and 2s (the first thing he did when he got on the mic was shout out his former Gang Starr partner, Guru…damn a MC Solar, LOL!!!).

Although I enjoyed myself at the event, the museum is wrought with controversy. In addition to the legal issues the National Museum of Hip-Hop (NMOHH) have encountered with another organization called the Hip Hop Hall of Fame Museum Foundation, several hip-hop pioneers, including my good friend Grandmaster Caz, have publicly disclaimed any relationship with the NMOHH. Despite their names being listed in the press material that was released prior to Tuesday night’s event, Caz and the rest of the Cold Crush Brothers, Afrika Bambaataa, Kool Herc, and several others are boycotting anything related to the museum. Apparently, the people behind the project are not interested in having any direct involvement from the pioneers, but I’m going to go deeper into that subject in a future post. In the meantime, enjoy the pictures I managed to snap…stay tuned…

Posted by The Hip Hop Socialite at 5:41 am

It’s About Time: Danny Boy Speaks

Features, Interviews 1 Response »
Apr 062010

Although he’s never released a full-length album, R&B crooner Danny Boy, who was first signed by the notorious Suge Knight helmed Death Row Records at the tender age of 14, is a music industry veteran. Having lent his voice to some of the label’s biggest hits, including Tupac’s “Toss It Up” and “I Ain’t Mad at Cha,”  the Chicago, Illinois native was with Death Row during the height of its dominance and witnessed first hand the events that contributed to the label’s rise and fall from grace. On the eve of the release of his long overdue debut album, aptly titled “It’s About Time,” Danny Boy opens up about his career, Tupac, and the so-called East Coast/West Coast beef that turned the tide of hip-hop forever:

CSM: The album is called “It’s About Time;” tell us about it?

DB: It is my Debut album, featuring songs produced by DJ Quick and DeVante.

CSM: What’s going to be the album’s first single?

DB: “It’s All About U”

CSM: Will there be a tour?

DB: Not right now, but possibly in the future I’ll get out on the road to promote the Danny Boy brand.

CSM: Describe your current situation with Death Row?

DB: I want to thank WIDEawake for resurrecting Death Row. It is a great business venture for myself.  There’s great music in that vault.   I’m glad someone is willing to give that music a new shot.

CSM: You are a product of the 90s, a decade that many consider to be the “Golden Age” of hip-hop and R&B. What is your perspective on the current state of R&B?

DB: I have a fifteen-year-old daughter and she loves it. I think Maxwell is great, I appreciate him and others.  We have to get back to music that’s going to touch people.  That’s what liveson.

CSM: Do you listen to any of the R&B artists that are out today? Who?

DB: Maxwell. Willie Neal. I listen to a lot of Independent Artists.

CSM: What current artists would you like to work with?

DB: Everybody.

CSM: We’re still hearing horror stories about the way Suge ran Death Row during the peak of its dominance in the music industry. Is there any truth whatsoever about his tactics? i.e. intimidation, threats, etc.

DB: That was a bunch of hype.  Puffy, Pac, and Biggie had problems with each other. Pac and Biggie were friends though.   The media made it bigger than it was. We had friends on the east coast.  We partied together. It was more a certain group of people. I don’t have problems with anybody.  It’s all about the music.

CSM: You were also with Death Row during the height of that whole East Coast versus West Coast madness, which culminated in the deaths of Tupac and Biggie. What was it like in the offices of Death Row during that time?

DB: I was 16/17 years old.   I was a part of the whole promotion, you know.  It’s the music business.  We partied and we made music. I think the public and media made  more of it than it was.  People like the hype. That’s what they got.

CSM: What was the mood at Death Row after Pac’s death?

DB: Things went crazy. Suge lost his mind around that time. Pac was a brother. When a loved one is gone you loose it. The devil took over.

CSM: You were on several of Pac’s biggest hits with Death Row. What was it like to work with him?

DB: Great experience.  He was in studio B, I was in studio A, Pac would come in and say hey,  “Danny Boy come over here.”   I’d go to the next room.  I was a part of that.  It was great. I was glad to go.    Even though I never got paid for any of that I was glad I did it.  Iwas young and happy to do it.

CSM: Where do you think Pac would be in his career if he were alive today?

DB: Vice president of America. Pac thought BIG. People never saw Pac on a airplane reading books, not magazines [sic]. They just pictured him differently. He was serious.  He was no ordinary dude.

CSM: Are you in contact with any of your former labelmates at Death Row? Snoop, Kurupt, Warren G., etc.

DB: I have spoken to Kurupt and Daz.

CSM: Have you ever thought about writing a book about your experiences?

DB: The book is almost done. I was the last dude to sing with Pac. 

CSM: Outside of the album, what else can we expect from you?

DB: I have a coffee shop in Chicago, “Soul Coffee and Café,” then another in Atlanta. “My song, My soul, My coffee” is the slogan.  We have a production company here in Atlanta as well.

Be sure to pick up “It’s About Time” when it hits stores on April 20, but in the meantime, check out Tupac’s 1996 hit “I Ain’t Mad At Cha,” featuring Danny Boy:

Posted by The Hip Hop Socialite at 3:20 pm

Reggie Andre a.k.a Bizz-E BlazE

Features No Responses »
Mar 262010

Reggie “Bizz-E BlazE” Andre is an independent Hip-Hop artist/singer/song writer from the Flatbush Area of Brooklyn, New York. Between hours-long studio sessions and working a part-time job, this recent high school grad doesn’t find much down time. In a few words, this boy is hungry!
BlazE began rhyming and putting together beats with friends at age ten. The first albums he purchased are a testament to the artists. Blaze takes most from; these include Foxy Brown’s Ill Nana, Jay-Z’s Hard Knock Life, and Eminem’s Marshall Mathers LP. However, making his long-time hobby never became a reality until a couple years ago; Industry reps expressed belief that BlazE had talent. During this time he hooked up with a music producer and another rap artist but, because of a clash in priority, decided to find others with the same drive he possessed.
Bizz-E BlazE soon after found the right people he was looking for to start making his dream become a reality. He has so far worked with a few producers such as Hostyle, Monteegi Da Guard, Dot Da Genius and Motion Picture. At this time he was working on his first mixtape, in which he dropped August 31st, 2009 called “Bill 4 President Tha Mixtape”. The inspiration for the title of the mixtape, as he said “There is always a competition in the rap game to be the best, so its like I am campaigning to show I have what it takes”.
Currently, Reggie “Bizz-E BlazE” Andre is working on his second mixtape called “Right Side of the Brain” due to drop Summer 2010. He is spending his time working with the same and also new producers. BlazE is also promoting and networking a lot by going to events, performing at different shows and social websites on the Internet. He performed at Public Assembly in Brooklyn for Dhrama Magazine in which he regretted due to the unprofessionalism of the show. Bizz-E BlazE is very serious about his future and wanting to make his dream a reality, as I said this boy is hungry and he is not going to stop till he makes it to the “Top of the Game”!

Posted by celeBREty Bish at 7:02 am
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