ISSUE 9 / MAY 2014
FESTIVALS
WHERE WILL YOU BE GOING?
FOOD SPECIAL
BEAUTY SPRING BEST BUYS
GYMS KITCHEN
FASHION
BE LOUD & PROUD
MOTORING FORD KUGA
TRAVEL
NAS
WE VISIT GUADELOUPE
ICONIC RAPPER HEADLINES THIS YEARS LOVEBOX FESTIVAL 1
EDITORSNOTE Hello,
Welcome back readers! We hope you enjoyed last months edition. We got a very positive response from you all and we cant thank you enough. As Summer is also fast approaching we decided to compile a list of the top festivals in the UK that we think you should attend. So grab your wellies, anoraks and if your brave enough tents and if you can head down to the highlighted festivals for a weekend of quality music with loads of big names from both here and across the pond. Our Features Editor, Gavin visited the beautiful Island of Guadeloupe where he basked in the sun and soaked up some of the local atmosphere. We also had an afternoon meal at one of Londons up-and-coming restaurant chains, Gyms Kitchen and interviewed 1/3 of the brains behind the popular brand - you read it here first the chain is going to be huge! Also had a blast from the past and interviewed Kyle Lettman who was preiously in the Urban UK Group Fundamental as he embarks on his solo career. Like always we have our regular sections which include Moneywise, Gaming, Sneakerpimp, Fashion and Fitness. Believe me when i say that this month is a jammed packed edition, but I’lI leave you to have a read and wont reveal anymore. Until next month, enjoy!
Michelle x
MEET THE TEAM THE TEAM BEHIND 24/7 LIVE MAGAZINE GAVIN A PETERS Features Editor
gavin@247livelistings.com
DOMINIQUE LEIGERTWOOD-HOWARD Beauty & Features
FABIAN COLLYMORE Sports/Fitness Expert
GRANT RICHARDS The Sneaker Pimp
DAMIEN BROME Money & Finance
MAZEL JOHN Fashion
JAMMZ Designer/site maintenance
DARREN LOBBAN The Games Master
JAZINHINO PHILLIPS Motoring
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38 SUMMER FESTIVALS
48 INTERVIEW: Kyle Lettman
56 FOOD EXCLUSIVE: Gyms Kitchen
70 TRAVEL: Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe
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24/7NEWS from VIBE magazine. Using the hashtag #Drakeforken, her friends appealed the Toronto native to ask that she get the chance to meet him. Her friends also organized a prom and graduation for Kennedy when she was forced to stop attending because of her condition. Drake responded to the plea and initially said he would record a personalized video for the stricken fan, but he went one better and surprised with a visit. He then took to instagram to share the experience. Recently his Young Money label mate, Nicki Minaj, did the same thing and surprised a terminally ill fan. B-Styles Babes: Japanese Girls Adopting the “Black Lifestyle” In Japan there is a growing trend amongst teenage girls to adopt a new craze called B-Style, which involves adopting all the features of a so-called “black lifestyle”. The trend involves young girls spending hours in tanning salons to get darker, braiding their hair to try and emulate the look of African American hip-hop stars. Tokyo resident Hina has become an Internet sensation and poster girl for the teenage craze that is taking Japan by storm. In a video posted on You Tube, the teenager, who works at a trendy, hip hop inspired boutique called Baby Shoop explains her “B-style” as a tribute to black culture and also to their music, fashion and dance”.
Wiley Deported from Canada Last month The Godfather of Grime, Wiley took to twitter to vent his frustrations at being deported from Canada over an alleged misdemeanor that took place in America. The rapper fired off a series of angry messages ahead of a scheduled performance in Toronto’s Hoxton Venue. Shortly before posting a picture from inside the airport. He tweeted “immigration have got me and are sending me back to London… Sad Story”. According to his twitter account the MC was engaged in an argument with Canadian immigration officials. They pointed to an undetailed arrest in the US as a reason to have him sent back home. But unfortunately the star was put on a plane bound for Glasgow and not London, forcing the star to make his own way back from the north of the UK. Bizarrely Wiley has admitted that he does have a criminal record in the USA, but he hadn’t done anything, not one crime there and had not spent any time in Jail. He goes on to say he is not banned from Canada, but now he has to apply for a work visa if he wants to return to the country He then tweeted that the ‘youngers’ should keep their records clean to avoid the same sort of trouble he is in now.
Drake Makes a Surprise Visit Terminally Ill Cancer patient and fan in Houston Canadian rapper Drake made a terminally ill cancer patients dream come true by paying her a surprise visit in Houston Texas. Drake granted the wish of terminally ill patient Kennedy Brown after her friends rallied for the rappers attention via social media according to reports
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she is unsure whether the track she did with Future will make the album.
Ice Cube: We Should Have Won the Best Duo Award for Ride Along. Legendary Rapper turned actor Ice Cube has spoken out against the MTV Music Awards after losing the Best Duo award for his movie Ride Along. The former NWA member starred alongside comedian Kevin Hart in the hilarious buddy cop film, where he plays a police officer who teams up with a security guard. Losing out to Vin Diesel and the late Paul Walker for their work in The Fast and Furious 6, the star told USA Today, “We was robbed. Shame on you MTV”. According to Cube, he and Hart lost only because of “Sympathy” over Walker’s unexpected death in November adding that “We had the best chemistry of everybody nominated, for us not to win was crazy, we were the best onscreen duo period. They should have gave it to him before he passed away” Cube was later fiercely criticized for his remarks and took his twitter account to address his earlier comments insisting that he is “not a sore loser” and simply believes that “we should honour people before they die”
Nick Cannon: People Should Embrace Comedy Last month Nick Cannon caused major controversy when transformed himself into a white character called Connor Smallnut to promote his new album entitled White People Party Music. Speaking on the Arsenio Hall show in the US, Cannon said that the character comes from stuff that he used to do as a teenager while working on Nickelodeon. Asked by the chat show host what he has learned from portraying the character, the Drumline actor said, “White people know how to have a good time. I had so much being white and enjoying all that privilege it was amazing.” Adding that “nobody who he works with has a problem with the character and to people who have a problem with it need to re-evaluate and question themselves, because there is a huge difference between humour and hatred” concluding that people who cant take a joke can “take a hike!”
J- Lo Confirms Collaborations with Robin Thicke, Chris Brown and Wiz Khalifa
Bey and Jay to Snub Kimye’s Wedding
Singer Jennifer Lopez has confirmed that Blurred Lines Singer Robin Thicke will feature on her new album. Talking to Vlad TV, the American Idol USA judge revealed that “Chris Brown did write some stuff on it, but he is not singing on the Album” The Tenth studio LP which has taken over a 18 months to make, is due out later this year and will also feature French Montana, Tyga, Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa, Robin Thicke and Maxwell. However the I’m Into You singer revealed that 7
According to a well placed source Beyoncé and Jay Z have no intention of attending the wedding of BFF Kanye West and bride to be Kim Kardashian. The main reason the couple plan to skip out on the do is because the extravaganza is going to be filmed for the reality show Keeping Up With the Kardashian’s. Speaking exclusively to The Sun Newspaper a close friend of the couple has admitted that Jay Z would be there if it wasn’t going to be such a public event, so instead he is going to throw him the most extravagant stag party at his 40/40 club in New York. He is also reportedly paying for the newly weds to have use of a £100,000 yacht for their honeymoon.
24/7NEWS
NEWS IN BRIEFS
Royal Rap In the recent Royal trip to Australia, the newly wed parents visited a youth centre, where Kate and Prince William gave a hand at scratching on music deck. Surprisingly the Royal revealed how R&B was one of his favourite music genres.
Simon Cowell: I Want Louis Walsh Not Rita Ora X Factor supremo Simon Cowell has addressed judging rumours surrounding the new series of X Factor. The 54-yearold father of one has confirmed he is back as head judge with Cheryl returning to reprise her role. However there is still confusion as to who will assume the positions of the other members of the panel. Speaking last month to Digital Spy Cowell said of rumoured names “in terms of the rumours, Rita Ora, no, Rihanna we never spoke to. Louis, I would love to return, but it’s a decision I have to make with the producers and ITV, so lets see what happens.
Lil Kim reveals sex of baby The explicit rapstress has revealed that she is having having a baby girl. To share her delight Kim sent out baby shower invitations for the new arrival. Some of the guests include Jay Z and Beyonce.
R. Kelly Allegedly Paid $100k To Stop Housekeeper’s Sexual Harassment Claim It has been reported that R&B supremo R. Kelly has settled a number of sexual misconduct suits, but sources say not all the settlements have been made public. The Black Panties singer was accused of sexual harassment as recently as 2010by a 36-year-old housekeeper, but he settled the case out of court for $100,000 to avoid litigation. The claimant worked for Kelly for about a year beginning in 2008 and it was then that alleged harassment took place. A source close to the star told gossip website Bossip that there has been a lot of discord in the singers inner circle lately and further secrets about him are starting to float to the surface about the millions he has paid out over the years to a wide variety of women.
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Lauryn Hill Returns The Soulful queen , has announced a one-of London show, which will be only her second British appearance in five years. She will play at Brixton Academy on Saturday 20 September.
@24sevenLive
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24/7BAROMETER
WHAT’S
HOT? IDRIS ELBA
The Wire star released pictures of his newborn son who he named Winston on Instagram.
ALEXANDRA BURKE
The former X Factor winner takes over from Beverley Knight as Rachel Marron in the hit West End musical The Body Guard this autumn.
ROBIN THICKE
RYAN GIGGS
The Manchester United legend has been appointed caretaker manager after the shock sacking of David Moyes in less than one season.
ROUGH COPY
His 2013 monster hit Blurred Lines has become the UK’s most downloaded track of all time.
The 2014 X Factor finalists have recently signed to Epic Records
GEORGE ALAGIAH
TULISA
WHAT’S
NOT? PORSHA WILLIAMS
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star was recently arrested and charged over her brawl with co-star Kenya Moore on the RHOA reunion show.
The BBC newsreader has recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with bowel Cancer.
P. DIDDY
The Rapper/media mogul is reported to be devastated by the death of his dog Honeycomb and has described it as ‘one of the saddest days of his life’ 10
BEYONCE Fans accuse the star of Photoshopping images of her body that she recently shared online of her vacationing in the Dominican Republic.
24/7GOSSIP
Styles added: “My Twitter went mad with everything asking if I’ll go back. I’ll definitely do a cameo one day, maybe next year, I might shock everyone!”
ate!”
CUBA GOODING JNR SPLITS FROM WIFE AFTER 20 YEARS
KERRY HAS A GIRL
The Scandal star, Kerry Washington and a husband Nnamdi Asomugha have welcomed the arrival of their new baby girl. Washington and her former NFL quarterback husband named their daughter Isabelle Amarachi Asomugha. The baby was born at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The couple, secretly married in June of last yea after being seen together publically. Kerry can be seen on screens in the third season of the hit TV series Scandal, which has just aired in the US.
THE VOICE WINNER DEBUT SINGLE LIMPS IN BEHIND RUNNER UP SALLY BARKER Recently crowned Voice Winner Jermain Jackman had to contend with his debut singer limping in 15 places behind runner Sally Barker. The 19 year old who wants to be the first black prime minister cover of Jennifer Hudson’s And I Am Telling You has been beaten by Voice rival Barkers cover of the Olly Murs hit Dear Darlin. Mentored by Will I Am, Jackman won a prize of a £100,000 recording contract. his effort is not setting the charts alight whereas, Sally 52, mentored by Sir Tom Jones was the bookies favourite to win and her chart position confirms her popularity amongst the viewers.
After 20 years of marriage Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr is allegedly splitting from his wife according to sources. The wife of the Hollywood star, Sara Kapfer has filed f papers to the L.A. County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences. She and Cuba were high school sweethearts and got married in 1994. They have 3 children, 2 of whom are minors. This comes as a surprised as it was only last year that Cuba appeared on the American programmed’The View’ talking about how great it is to still be in love with someone for so long.
BROWN TRIAL DELAYED
KHLOE CUT SHORT In a recent interview with an Australian TV channel Khloe Kardashian allegedly cut short an interview after one of the tv hosts continued to talk about her sisters baby, North West. The chat ended abruptly and a very un happy Khloe took to Twitter to vent her frustrations. The Australian network later commented on twitter saying: “We thought it was a technical glitch but turns out @KhloeKardashian’s people pulled the plug after @Sam_armytage asked about baby North.” Khloe later tweeted back saying: “Why would I cut an interview short because of North? Get over yourself Sunrise... The call dropped... stop reaching for a story. She then added: “You are so f**king desper-
CHILDS RETURNS TO TOWIE
It seems yet another of the cast members, that have left the hit show ‘The Only Way Is Essex’ is set to return according to sources. The busty babe, admitted recenly how she loved the show and missed it. Childs revealed how she will ‘definitely return to the popular reality show. Speaking to Star magazine, she said: “Never say never. I love the show and still watch it. The last season finale of the show saw Lydia Bright return. 11
Having been in jail since March 14, Chris Brown trial continues to be plagued by setbacks. Brown is accused of breaking another man’s nose after the guy tried to squeeze into a picture with the R&B star and some female fans. According to sources it could be roughly six months from now. The delay comes after Brown’s bodyguard Christopher Hollosy opted not to testify out of fear of self-incrimination. Brown releases his sixth studio album on 5th May coincidentally his Birhthday.
IMAGEGALLERY
WHOS KIDS ARE THEY...?
THIS MONTH WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE KIDS OF SOME OF THE WORLDS BIGEEST CELEBRITIES. CAN YOU FIGURE WHO THERE PARENT ARE?
Shiloh Nouvel - 7 years (May 27, 2006) Famous Parents: Angelie Jolie and Brad Pitt
Justin Dior - December 30, 1993 (age 20) Famous Dad: Sean ‘P Diddy’ Combs
Lourdes Maria Ciccone Leon- 17 years (October 14, 1996) Famous Mum: Madonna
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Simone Alexandra - 12 years (August 14, 2001) Famous Dad: The Rock
Romeo James- September 1, 2002 (age 11) 2nd eldest child of David and Victoria Beckham
Nahla Ariela Aubry- 6 years (March 16, 2008) Famous Parents: Halle Berry and Model Gariel Aubry.
Monroe and Moroccan- 3years (April 30, 2011) Famous Parents: Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon.
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24/7BEAUTY
By Molica Hackshaw
Spring Beauty besy buys!
This month I am going to talk you through my recommended beauty buys of the month! These are a great deal especially if you want to shop on a budget but still look amazing. The products I have selected are definitely worth it - enjoy!
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick, £32 As a darker skin toned lady I’ve always found it difficult to gain that contoured glow. That was until I found the Bobbi Brow Shimmer brick in Bronze. The pinky brown tones make an excellent blush adding a summery glow, while the lighter tones add an excellent highlight. This is definitely worth the chunky price and would be a great pay day treat.
Avon Nail Hardener I usually wear acrylic nail and when my acrylics aren’t on my nails are as thin as paper and they chip easily. To avoid this a nail hardener is necessary as they help to strengthen your nails. However it is essential that a good diet is maintained in order to get the essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy hair and nails.
Simple facial cleansing wipes, £1.49 You’d think it would be common sense to remove your make up after a long day but many dont but these facial cleansing wipes will soon have doing it as part of your daily routine. The wipes have a flowery scent while having a bumpy texture which allows deep cleansing for the skin pores.
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Vaseline, 99p The best. A necessity. Gods gift. Dry lips ? Thin eyebrows ? Want the effect of mascara ? Vaseline is the answer it truly is a blessing. It is man and womans best friend.
CELEB TIPS... MARY J BLIGE “DON’T GO A FULL DAY OR NIGHT WITHOUT WASHING YOUR FACE. YOU HAVE TO GET ALL THE DIRT AND MAKEUP OUT OF YOUR PORES.” —Mary J. Blige TRY THIS:
Juara Rice Facial Cleanser, £12.05 For users with all types of skin, Juara Rice Facial Cleanser is enriched with Vitamin E along with the powerful rice to create a cleanser that is not only invigorating but is deep cleaning as well. It dissolves all oil and make up along with dirt and debris that clogs the pores and from the surface of the skin. Juara Rice Facial Cleanser contains natural amino acids that are known to completely cleanse the skin while it nourishes it and replenishes it so that it is always hydrated.
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24/7FASHION
By Mazel John
‘LOUD & PROUD’
Coloured beautiful, these shorts are bang on trend and a summer must. This bold print is gorgeous and I’ve given you three options all ideal for the warm weather. Love the colours, bold design and the versatility.
ES I D LA
KIMEM cropped shirt £114 FARFETCH.COM
Alexander Wang Parental Advisory mesh and jersey sweatshirt £835 NET-A-PORTER.COM
River Island Yellow wrap crop top £22 RIVERISLAND.COM
J Lo Multicolour Aztec Stripe Shorts £3.99 KARMACLOTHING.CO.UK
Lena Slip on Trainer £135 WHISTLES.CO.UK
Rupert Sanderson High Heel Pumps £735 RUPERTSANDERSON.COM
Mia T Ankle Strap Tonga Sandals £13 £18 PACSUN.COM 16
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Though the pattern’s pretty busy, we’ve decided to tone the colours down a touch for the boys. Used some muted tones and given three very different looks. Perfect for summer days and nights. Jack & Jones Men’s Jacob Aztec Print Shirt £34 THEHUT.COM
Hollister Slim Straight Chinos Dudes £21 HOLLISTERCO. COM
Blue and White Pinstripe Tailored Shorts £18 NEWLOOK.COM
Denham Men’s Bolt DBS Mid Rise Skinny Jeans - Black £130 COGGLES.COM AEO Suede Boat Shoe £30 AE.COM
Vans Era £24 £30 ZAPPOS.COM
PAUL SMITH SHOES Men Only Otter shoes £315 GRAVITYPOPE.COM
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24/7GADGETS: Must Haves for Spring By Gavin Peters
SUMMER IS FAST APPROACHING CHECK OUT SOME OF THESE HOT GADGETS THAT 24/7LIVELISTINGS.COM HAS TIPPED AS SOME OF THE MUST HAVES AND ONES TO KEEP AN EYE ON.
JOBY ORI FOR IPAD, £48.00 Made of an aluminum and polypropylene composite, with a design inspired by origami, Joby’s GorillaMobile Ori for iPad transforms from a case to an angled base that’s perfect for typing to a 14-inch-tall display stand.
TEP WIRELESS POCKET WIFI RENTAL, £210 There are a few things about this service that stand out immediately. Firstly, the price is fantastic when compared to expensive international roaming fees. Research has shown that you can save up to 95% on roaming with the Tep Wireless pocket wifi. The service starts at £4.50 per day, but all Silversurfers members will receive 20% off their order with discount code Silversurfers.
BLACKBERRY PLAYBOOK, £297.00 The seven-inch, 14-ounce BlackBerry PlayBook was the leader of the pack of 100-plus tablets announced at CES. It’s able to run multiple apps at once and, unlike the iPad, display Flash websites. Over Bluetooth it can link to every feature on a BlackBerry phone, including its 3G signal. A WiFi-only version is slated for release this spring, with a 4G model debuting in the summer
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HEREO GPS WATCH FOR KIDS, £88.00
If you’ve got a child between the ages of 3 and 8,then this a must have gadget. A startup called HereO has made a gadget especially for keeping tabs on young kids in that age range. HereO has made what it claims is the world’s “smallest and coolest” GPS watch device, which connects with a mobile and web app to allow parents to keep track of where their children are at all hours of the day.
SENNHEISER MM550 TRAVEL, £295.00 Equipped with a built-in microphone, these headphones use Bluetooth to play music and take calls wirelessly. They also have a TalkThrough function for temporarily deactivating the noise-canceling feature.
SONY 3D BLOGGIE HD CAMERA, £148.00 Relaxing in your chair in front of your favourite TV detective programmes, seeing the grandchildren...however you choose to spend it, it’s your time to sit back and enjoy the free time you’ve earned. Have we wet your appetite for your first tastes of freedom? Thought so. Why not invest in this amusing digital countdown clock so you can keep track of every day, minute, even second until the day comes.
COMING SOON... If rumours are correct the newest edition of the Apple family is to hit the high streets this month, One thing is for sure that we dont see it this May we can definitely expect to see the device in 2014. Pictured right is a leaked image of the new iPhone 6 phone. Apple is set to release two versions of the iPhone 6, one 4.7–inch model and another, larger 5.5–inch effort. Price: TBC
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24/7 MOTORING By Jazinhino Phillips
The Ford Kuga
The Ford Kuga first made an appearance in 2008. It was designed to compete with the likes of the Honda CR-V, the the Nissan Qashqai, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Now Ford have released their second generation Kuga at £1000 cheaper than the first model. Now let’s be honest, it’s much more stylish than the first generation model. As you would expect there are a few specifications to choose from. These are the Zetec, Titanium, Titanium X, and now Ford have recently introduced the Titanium X Sport. The Zetec is the entry level for those like 24/7Livelistings.com Games Master Darren Lobban. There are four engines on offer, two 2.0 diesel engines which produce either 138 bhp with 53 mpg or 163 bhp with 47 mpg. The other two are 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engines that will give you 147 bhp with 42 mpg or 177 bhp with 45 mpg. Both transmissions are either a six speed automatic or manual, unfortunately some “bright spark” thought it would be a good idea to make the latter petrol engine only available in an auto. Now this wouldn’t be a problem if it was any good but it’s not. As a matter of fact it is quite poor. You also have the choice of front wheel drive or four wheel drive which I think is a good thing. However the 2.0 diesel 163 bhp is only available in four wheel drive. The diesel engines are impressive at
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low revs yet it tends to become quite noisy when the foot is pressed down. The EcoBoost is economical and is also noisy when driven hard. Another improvement is the fact Ford have made the Kuga more spacious. There is suitable room in the front and rear. This is due to the fact that the car is actually 81mm longer than the predecessor. That’s bloody marvellous if you have long sexy legs like myself. The interior is similar to the Focus and C Max yet the higher quality materials gives it that push towards the VW Tiguan. The head room is quite generous and there’s a lever on the back seat which enables the seat to recline. The same lever is used to fold the seat down, although the floor isn’t quite flat. The handling is one of the best in its class, it is agile and even matches the BMW X1. Body roll is noticeable at higher speeds and there is also a lot of wind noise. The entry level of equipment is very good. The Games Master should be pleased by this, you get seven airbags (front, curtain, and side), alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, and hill start assist. You also get sporty instrument dials, push button start, dab digital radio, USB & iPod connectivity, and ESP. Ford have even added a clever feature whereby the steering wheel moves to the side in the event of an accident to minimise injury. Good visibility all around and Ford has cut a groove in the door to rest your arm while you are driving. The boot space is much more bigger than previous model which is perfect for carrying larger items (Darren). Keyless pack enables you to open the boot by waving your foot underneath the bumper. Plenty of storage space that includes big door bins, big glovebox, and cup holders. The Kuga also scored a 5 star ncapp rating. The Kuga is a good car overall although I don’t think the competitors will worry too much. Prices start from £21,000 - £28,350
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@24sevenLive
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Sian Nathaniel-James 24/7CAREERS
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At only the tender age of 22, East London born singer/dancer, Sian Nathaniel James started her professional career at the renowned Urdang Academy, her talents did not go unnoticed and now she is part of the ensemble cast performing in musical production of Disney’s Lion King in Hamburg, Germany. 24/7 Live Listings.com caught up with the rising starlet just before she was ready to take to the stage BY GAVIN PETERS
WHAT THE HARDEST THING ABOUT DANCING? For me dancing isn’t hard. It’s a way of life. But perhaps doing 8 shows a week does take its toll on the body!
WHEN DID YOU FIRST START DANCING? I did my first ballet class at 3 years old at Dream Academy in beckton where I grew up. I then advanced in acting, jazz and modern dance. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DANCING PROFESSIONALLY? I have danced professionally for a year and a half.
I IMAGINE IT CAN BE TIRING AT TIMES- WHAT DO YOU DO MAKE IT EASIER FOR YOU TO PERFORM? Having naps! And eating the correct foods to give you energy.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOU CAREER? I love the butterflies you get before entering the stage. I don’t think that will ever leave me. I enjoy meeting new people and constantly learning new things I.e scripts/ music/ choreography. I love the challenge.
YOU MUST BE PHYSICALLY FIT, DO YOU HAVE TO TRAIN REGULARLY AND EAT PROPERLY? I got to the gym about 3 times a week. Doing the show everyday allows the body to relax and get used to the same movements, so going to the gym challenges me. Eating good is key to having
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a lot of energy. Fruits are my lifeline! WHEN YOUR NOT DANCING/ PERFORMING WHAT DO YOU DO TO CHILL OUT? I love to listen to music. Especially old skool RnB. I enjoy watching American TV shows online. www. delishow.com gets me through tough times. WHAT ROLES HAVE YOU DONE AND CURRENTLY DOING? During my 3 years at The Urdang academy I have been Dance captains for the musicals Chicago and The Wiz. I played the lead role of Sonja in The Life. I am currently a singer/dancer in the Lion King Hamburg. TELL US ABOUT YOUR TIME DOING LION KING WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT IT? Lion king is hard work. Everybody that I work with is from a different country like South Africa, Brazil, Spain , Cuba, France and many more. They are all like a second family to me. We have are good days and bad days like everyone else. But overall it’s so much fun and magical being on stage.
HOW COMPETITIVE IS THE INDUSTRY , EXPLAIN? It is everyone for themselves. You have to be the best you can be to do well in this industry. You have to do your best to stand out, not just by your look but by your talent. Then after all of that, the casting directors have to think you are what they are looking for. It’s all about timing and preparation. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO WANT TO DO WHAT YOU DO? I believe you have to love what you do, that way you will always be happy. I adore my job and my career. I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. That’s how I know I was made to perform. I drive myself. WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TWO? Of course Michael Jackson. He will always be the best performer of all time to me. WHAT’S THE MOST EMBARRASSING THING THAT’S HAPPEN TO YOU WHILST PERFORMING? Once on stage I fell backwards after having my leg 26
tangled in my costume. I kept going. But I was mortified!!
ANY WHO WANTS TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM? TRAIN!! Find the best school, go to classes, make yourself better all the time. Make it hard for anyone to tell you No! IF YOU COULD CHANGING ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR CAREER WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY? My career is just beginning and I am loving every moment. I wouldn’t change a thing. WHAT IS THE DAILY ROUTINE PERFORMING IN A BIG MUSICAL PRODUCTION LIKE THE LION KING? Get to work, Sign in. Singing warm up. Make up and hair preparation. Physical warm up. Get into first costumes and wait for the lights! HOW DEMANDING IS THE ROLE/S YOU PLAY? My role allows me to sing just as well as I dance and that is very challenging. I have to be at the top of my game every night. WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? Being able to audition for Nala this year was great for me and my confidence. WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE? I hope to return to London in the summer and audition to be in a musical in the west end, I
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24/7LOOKOUT
THEY’RE BACK AGAIN... 28
YOUNGERS RETURNS!
THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED, TEENAGE DRAMA, YOUNGERS RETURNS TO OUR SCREENS FOR A SECOND SERIES. The series created by Benjamin Kuffuor and Levi David Addai first aired on E4 in March 2013 follows a group teenagers aiming to become the next big thing on the urban music scene. Set in South-East London the show follows a group of friends trying to work their way through teenage life in a world that’s more about swagger than straight A’s. The series kicks off with Jay (Calvin Demba) trying to embark on his first solo career with a new producer, while Yemi (Ade Oyefeso) struggles as the leader of his youth church choir. With Davina (Shavani Seth) out of the way can the two put the past behind them and move on? The last series was declared a ‘hit’ after a 450,000 viewer turn out for the first episode. E4 have said, “Youngers has been a huge success, but we have to let time tell the tale from here, as the following episodes will have to be even better for it to continue.” This series is expected to be an even bigger hit with 8 new episodes with Calvin Demba, Ade Oyefeso and Shavani Seth returning, also Youtube sensation Mandem on the Wall.
SERIES 2 AIRS: Wednesday 7th May 2014, 7:30pm on E4 29
24/7REVIEW ‘24’ -Jack is back! By Jade Wilkinson
After 4 years away from our screens the ground breaking and Emmy award winning series 24 is back. The series follows former counter terrorist agent Jack Bauer (Keifer Sutherland) on his mission to prevent terrorists from causing global destruction. After 4 years away from our screens the ground breaking and Emmy award winning series 24 is back. The series follows former counter terrorist agent Jack Bauer (Keifer Sutherland) on his mission to prevent terrorists from causing global destruction. The series became cult hit due to its unique hour by hour real time format and the use of split screens set against a ticking clock, which allowed for action packed and interweaving storylines. into the unknown, being exiled from America, the country he tirelessly fought to protect. 24 Live Another Day picks up 4 years later with Bauer resurfacing in London being hunted by American forces. Fan favourite Chloe O’Brian (Mary Lynn Rajskub) returns, as well as Jacks former flame Audrey Raines (Kim Raver). This season sees the introduction of new characters Kate Morgan
Over 8 seasons the character Jack Bauer was elevated to legendary status, known his relentless pursuit of justice against domestic and international terrorist threats and or his use of extreme methods like torture, in order to obtain the information needed. The season 8 finale saw Jack Bauer walk off 30
(Yvonne Strahovski) and Steve Navarro (Benjamin Bratt), as the CTU agents tracking Bauer and guest stars Stephen Fry as the British Prime Minister. 24 Live Another Day is a limited run series that will that will represent the 12 most important hours of a typical 24 season. In true 24 style Jack Bauer is willing to come out of hiding and risk his freedom in order to thwart a terrorist attack that could change the world forever. 24 LIVE ANOTHER DAY PREMIERS ON SKY ONE 7 MAY AT 9PM.
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24/7FILM A THOUSAND TIMES GOODNIGHT (15) RELEASED: 2/5/2014
BRICK MANSIONS (15) RELEASED: 2/5/2014 Set in a crime-ridden corner of a dystopian Detroit, Brick Mansion sees two men - a cop and an ex-convict - team up to prevent a citywide takeover by criminal gangs. As violence and criminal behaviour escalates in the abandoned brick mansions of Detroit, the police lock in the area with a containment wall to protect the rest of the city. But when exconvict Lino’s girlfriend is kidnapped, he knows he’ll have venture inside the boundaries of the brick mansions, so he enlists an undercover cop to help him take down a brutal criminal gang.
TARZAN (PG) RELEASED: 2/5/2014 The king of the jungle swings back onto the big screen in animated motion capture adventure Tarzan, with Kellan Lutz taking on the role of the young eco-warrior. After he is orphaned as a young boy, Tarzan is taken in by a family of gorillas who raise him as one of their own. But when a ruthless new silverback takes over as tribe leader, Tarzan is booted out of the ape crew. Ostracised and alone, he teams up with fellow human Jane Porter to fight against the evil men intent on destroying the forest.
Rebecca (Juliette Binoche) is one of the most respected and renowned war photojournalists in the world, with a genuine passion for documenting violence in lands consumed by conflict. After suffering an injury whilst working in Kabul, Afghanistan, Rebecca returns home to Ireland to recover. It’s here that she is confronted by her husband, who tells her that he can no longer tolerate her dangerous life and forces her to make a life-changing choice – her family or her career.
Starring the late Paul Walker (Fast & Furious) as undercover cop Damien Collier.
GODZILLA (12A) RELEASED: 21/3/2014
BAD NEIGHBOURS (15) RELEASE: 9/5/2014 Bad Neighbours tells the story of suburban parents Kelly and Mac who find their quiet family life disturbed by the antics of rowdy frat boys who live next door. Shortly after the birth of their baby, family man Mac and his partner Kelly are forced to live with neighbours from hell. As the rival parties fight for the upper hand, tension heightens and the situation escalates in to an all-out turf war.
When the authorities blame a series of incidents on natural disasters, it soon becomes apparent they are hiding a much bigger problem. 60 years after he first caused havoc on the silver screen, legendary monster Godzilla is back and bigger than ever, threatening the future of the planet once more. Warner Bros. Pictures present this stunning new vision of the classic, Japanese monster story, featuring a stellar cast, led by Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad, Argo) and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick Ass, The Illusionist).
THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY (12A) RELEASED: 16/5/2014 Set in the Mediterranean in the early 1960s, gripping noir-thriller The Two Faces Of January centres on a trio of Americans caught up in a web of murder and deceit. Oscar Isaac stars as Rydal, an American ex-pat working as a tour guide in Athens, who becomes acquainted with an older married couple Chester (Viggo Mortensen) and Colette (Kirsten Dunst). Despite their swanky outward appearance, Chester and Colette hide some dark secrets and when Rydal unwittingly becomes involved, all three of them are forced to flee together across Southern Europe. The Two Faces of January is the directorial debut from Hossein Amini, the screenwriter behind ‘Drive’ and ‘Snow White And The Huntsman’.
IN SECRET RELEASED: 16/5/2014 Set in the grimy backstreets of 1860s Paris, In Secret tells the tale of Thérèse Raquin, a young woman who embarks on an illicit affair with her husband’s friend. Under the instruction of her domineering aunt, the beautiful Thérèse (Elizabeth Olsen) is married off to her sickly cousin Camille (Tom Felton). Dissatisfied and yearning for more, Thérèse begins a passionate affair with her husband’s acquaintance Laurent (Oscar Isaac). But the overwhelming and obsessive passion they unleash has devastating results for all involved… In Secret is an adaptation of Émile Zola’s classic novel Thérèse Raquin.
POSTMAN PAT (U) RELEASED: 23/5/2014 CG animation Postman Pat: The Movie - You Know You’re The One’ sees the famous mailman hit the big time after entering a TV talent contest. Postman Pat is propelled into the spotlight after singing in a TV talent contest. Will the lure of fame and money be enough to convince Pat to leave the village of Greendale behind? And will he bring his trusty black and white cat Jess along for the ride? Postman Pat: The Movie - You Know You’re The One will be voiced by Stephen Mangan, with Ronan Keating providing the singing voice for Pat.
EDGE OF TOMORROW (12A) RELEASED 30/5/2014 Edge of Tomorrow tells the actionpacked story of a solider caught in a killer loop as he is forced to fight the same battle over and over again. In the near future, soldier Bill Cage is sent into combat with extraterrestrial invaders. He’s killed in action, but wakes up again only to find himself reliving the same nightmare day again and again. With each repetition, Cage has the opportunity to change the outcome and the fate of Earth itself. Edge of Tomorrow is an adaptation of the Japanese sci-fi novel All You Need Is Kill.
SABOTAGE RELEASED 9/5/2014 Nerve-shredding action thriller Sabotage tells the story of a DEA squad facing deadly consequences after taking millions of dollars from a drug cartel. Agent John ‘Breacher’ Wharton (Arnold Schwarzenegger) leads a highly skilled DEA task force on a successful raid of a drug cartel safe house. But when some of the cash from the raid goes missing, the close-knit agents are all suspects. Even worse, their lives are in danger as a mysterious assassin begins hunting them down one by one. Sabotage has a top calibre ensemble cast which also includes Olivia Williams, Terrence Howard and Mireille Enos.
MALEFICENT (PG) RELEASED: 30/5/2014 Telling the unknown history behind the villain of Sleeping Beauty, Maleficent was once a beautiful woman whose heart was turned to stone following a terrible betrayal. Living a peaceful, idyllic life, Maleficent’s life is changed forever due an invading army and vicious portrayal that turns her heart to stone. Showing the unknown and untold life of Disney’s most memorable villain, Maleficent is a tale of beauty, truth and heartache starring the incomparable Angelina Jolie.
LEGENDS OF OZ: DOROTHY’S RETURN (U) 23/5/2015 One of the world’s most loved fairytale stories continues, and sees Dorothy Gale setting out on a mission to rescue her friends from a mean spirited Jester – who also happens to be the brother of the Wicked Witch of the West. Luck is on Dorothy’s side, as she encounters a gang of new friends along the way, including a China Doll Princess, Wiser the Owl, Marshal Mallow and Tugg the Treeboat. Featuring the voice talents of Lea Michelle (Glee), Dan Akroyd (Ghostbusters) and Kelsey Grammer (Toy Story 2), the film also features songs by the legendary Bryan Adams.
courtesy of myvue.com & odeon.co.uk
24/7FILMfeature
RELEASE DATE: MAY 23, 2014
This year sees the return of yet another blockbuster film from our Supermutant heroes. X-Men: Days Of Future Past is the seventh installment of the X-men franchise. In this installment film the X-men together, they must fight for their survival by changing the past in order to save our future. This chapter sees the original X-men trilogy join forces with their younger selves, sending Wolverine back in time to warn the young Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Erik Lensherr (Magneto) of the dangers that lie in store unless they can change the course of history.
battle extravaganza. Days of Future Past acts as a sequel to both 2006’s X-Men: The Last Stand and 2011’s XMen: First Class, as well as a follow-up to 2013’s The Wolverine. Principal photography began in April 2013 in Montreal, Canada and ended in August 2013. The film has also been shot in 3D.
Twentieth Century Fox film sees the return from the epic cast including Hugh Jackman (Wolverine), Jennifer Lawrence (The Hunger Games), Michael Fassbender (12 Years a Slave) and James McAvoy (The Last King of Scotland) for the ultimate comic book
Courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox & MARVEL
24/7FEATURE
By Michelle Martin
Classic Motown: The Invasion Begins
This month one of the most eagerly anticipated exhibitions which celebrates the magic of Motown and marks the labels special 50-year relationship with the UK launches in North London. In June 1964, Motown crossed the Atlantic and a young Motown “Family� came to Britain for their first ever singer by the name of Mary Wells made history by Concert. becoming the labels first UK chart success with the hit single My Guy. To celebrate 50 years, Proud Galleries, in collaboration with EMI, Bravado and Universal have put toIt was a big achievement for a small independent record gether this ground breaking photographic homage to label from Detroit. And cemented the distinctive Mothe artists that bought r&b soul to the mainstream. town sound helping propel artists such as Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Martha Reeves The exquisite imagery charts the extraordinary, and the Vandelas to International fame. historic culture shaping movement chronicling the rise of Motown Records with rare and unseen photoThe success of My Guy paved the way for a full-scale graphs of the Labels first visitors to the UK, charting assault on the British charts and in 1965 when the the length, breadth and international success of the
label throughout the 60’s and 70’s These exclusive photographs show The Jackson 5, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder at the peak of their careers. From bold street photographs of Michael Jackson and his brothers enjoying the sights of London to intimate shots of Marvin Gaye joyously embracing his son, this exhibition offers a glimpse at the personalities behind the music. Proud Camden’s exclusive exhibition is a visual tribute to the labels founder Berry Gordy and the groundbreaking artists who helped define the sound of Motown. This stunning exhibition signals the start of a year of initiatives under the theme Classic Motown and celebrates the 50th anniversary of Motown’s first international hits which have so inspired music fans and music makers around the world. Dates: 14th May – 13th July 2014 Tuesday 13th May Times: Monday to Sunday: 11am – 5pm Entry: Free Address The Horse Hospital Stables Market Chalk Farm Road London NW1 8AH
24/7FESTIVALspecial
*EXC
LUS
IVE*
WELCOME TO 24/7LIVELISTINGS.COM’S FESTIVAL GUIDE FOR 2014. FOR THIS PRE FESTIVAL EDITION WE HAVE PROFILED THE VERY BEST FESTIVALS FOR THE SUMMER.
WIRELESS FESTIVAL 2014 WHEN: Friday 4, Saturday July 5, Sunday July 6 WHERE: Finsbury Park London, Perry Park, Birmingham INFO: www.facebook.com/wirelessfestival www.twitter. com/wirelessfest.com #wireless www.wirelessfestival.co.uk WHY SHOULD YOU GO? Because its 3 days of quality music from some of the biggest artists from both here and abroad, also Wireless has two new homes! One at London’s Finsbury Park and for the first time it will be running simultaneously in Birmingham’s Perry Park. The festival celebrates its tenth birthday this year and the promoter are doing everything they possibly can to make it extra special. Wireless Festival promoter Stever Homer from Live Nation is especially looking forward to another incredible year. “To celebrate it’s tenth year we couldn’t be more thrilled to mark this momentous occasion by adding a brand new second site in Perry park, Birmingham and also we are delighted to be welcoming back, Drake and Kanye West as headliners and Bruno Mars for his first UK Festival Headline performance. LINE UP INCLUDES: Kanye West, Pharell, Drake, Bruno Mars and Outkast, Ella Frye, Krept and Konan, Salt and Peppers, Naughty Boy, and Robin Thick have all been confirmed as acts at both venues.
LOVEBOX WHEN: Fri July 18 & Sat July 19 WHERE: Victoria Park, Hackney London E3 INFO: www.loveboxfestival.com https://www.facebook.com/mamaco.lovebox https://twitter.com/loveboxfestival #lovebox WHY SHOULD YOU GO? Because hip hop legend Nas will be performing his only UK live show to celebrate the 20th anniversary and re release of the seminal album Illmatic XX , Speaking exclusively to Radio 1’s Zane Lowe, Nas modestly admits illmatic was groudbreaking and plays down his role on the award winning masterpiece by saying “ that my environment wrote that album. I was just an instrument in the middle.” Back for another year at Lovebox is Red Bull Music Academy. Over the course of the weekend the Red Bull stage will house a non-stop party hosted by some of the biggest names in electronic music. Expect historic sets from Deviation top dog Benji B and veteran junglist Randall, and unmissable energy from The Gaslamp Killer.. Lovebox’s VIP area, The Pavilion Gardens, will transport VIP’s into an opulent world of Regency-era Brighton. Adorned with vibrant dome-roofed tents and exquisite furnishings, head to the Pavilion Gardens to catch sets from 2020Vision busman Ralph Lawson, Ben Pearce, Son of Sun (Live), Pete Herbert, Normski, and many more throughout the weekend. THE LINE UP INCLUDES: Acts: Nas, MIA, ASAP Rocky, Joey Badass, Banks, Katy B and many more. DJ’s: Norman J, David Rodigan, Craig Charles and Soul II Soul
T IN THE PARK WHEN: July 11 – July 13 Where: Baladoo Kinross-Shire, Scotland INFO: www.tinthepark.com https://www.facebook.com/tinthepark https://twitter.com/tinthepark #tinthepark WHY SHOULD YOU GO? Because you will be able to experience authentic british festival experience like no other. make it a road trip, bring a tent and some wellies and enjoy the very best hospitality Scotland has to offer. With 6 music tents playing a plethora of eclectic sounds. A fair ground, Fancy Dress Friday and exclusive parties for those who camp onsite. Now in it’s 21st year it’s Scotlands biggest outdoor music event, which annually boasts a stellar star studded line up. Last year saw Rihanna and Kendrik Lemar take to the main stage. THE LINE UP INCLUDES: Ed Sheeran, Ellie Goulding, Manic Street Preachers, Pharrell Williams, Paulo Nutini, Calvin Harris, Tinie Tempah, Paul Weller and Example.
V FESTIVAL When: 16 August & 17 August Where: Hylands Park Chelmsford & Weston Park South Staffordshire INFO: http://www.vfestival.com https://www. facebook.com/vfestival https://twitter.com/vfestival #vfestival Why should you go? Because V Festival boasts the most luxurious “Glamping experience� with luxury Yurts and caravan. Also headliner Justin Timberlake has confirmed this is his only UK date for 2014. V Festival is a great opportunity to see your favourite bands over two days on four different stages at each site both in the north and south of England The Line Up Includes Justin Timberlake, Lily Allen, Rudimental, Jason Derulo, Ceelo Green, All Saints and very special guest Chic featuring Nile Rodgers
LOVE SUPREME JAZZ FESTIVAL WHEN: Sat July 5 & Sun July WHERE Glynde Place Sussex INFO: http://www.lovesupremefestival.com https:// www.facebook.com/lovesupremefest https://twitter.com/lovesupremefest WHY SHOULD YOU GO? Because the Love Supreme Jazz Festival is the UK’s only major green field jazz festival and the acclaimed 3-day event arguably stands out from the crowd with a uniquely varied selection of music from an incredible array of international stars. Including De La Soul and UK acid jazz oufit Incognito, who are celebrating their 25 and 35 years in the music industry respectively. Returning this year are three of the highlights of last year’s festival, Brighton’s Jazz Rooms Soundsystem, who will wrap the festival up in style on the Sunday night, the welcome return of the popular Grand Marnier Hidden Charm Bar, and the Funky Sensation DJs, who will once again get festival goers warmed up on the Friday alongside a range of local live music acts. THE LINE UP INCLUDES: Jamie Cullum, Laura Mvula, Incognito, De La Soul, Courtney Pine, Imelda May and Gregory Porter.
24/7INTERVIEWS...
Kyle Lettman
R&B Singer Kyle Lettman, made up one third of the UK Urban trio Fundamental back in the early 2000s. Now Embarking on a solo career, and having just release his EP Access 24/7 Live Live Mag caught up the singer before his EP Album launch party at Londons LaLa Lounge, in Hammersmith, West London and here is what he had to say. By Gavin Peters YOU HAVE COME ALONG WAY SINCE BEING IN FUNDAMENTAL WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BEST MEMORIES FROM BEING IN THAT GROUP? My best memories are the fun we used to have on tours, the shows we killed and the in house jokes. We were together so long it was like we were brothers, i miss that family feeling the most. HOW DIFFERENT IS IT BEING A SOLO ARTIST AS OPPOSE TO BEING IN A GROUP? WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DIFFERENCES. A lot more pressure! theres no support system when it comes to the things you have to do as an indivdual artist. In a group the weight is divided between the individuals who are more suited to any particular job, whereas with a solo artist you have to be able to do everything. it’s all on you alone. However, thats also the beauty of it. Being in a group forces compromise to your creativeness being solo does not. DO YOU STILL TALK TO THE FORMER MEMBERSTHERE WAS RUMOURS THERE WAS RIVALRY IN THE GROUP AND YOU ENDED UP ON BAD TERMS? HOW TRUE IS THIS? Ha!!! not at all!..Rivalry.. yes, Bad Terms?.. NO!.. of course there’ll be some type of competition that goes without saying but its all healthy and its all about pushing us all to do our best at every turn. We may not talk as much as we all want, but were still brothers. that wont change. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GO I SOLO? DO YOU ENJOY IT AND WHAT IS THE EXPERIENCE LIKE PERFORMING LIVE? It wasn’t really a plan, I met some producers who really believed in what i was capable of and after recording a few songs we were all very happy with we decided to push for a mixtape/EP no pressure. I love performing on my lonesome now because i feel like the elements of myself i had to hide in the group ie: (The Jamaican heritage) can be on show and that puts my energy through the roof on stage. I’ve only just started performing so check back with me in a couple months and i’ll update you on the experiences of performing solo, i’ll have more to say then. hopefully panties being thrown.. clean ones of course.. lol HOW DO YOU THINK YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE LEAVING THE GROUP? In the group i was the ‘quiet one’, i’ve always been laid back but now im a lot more vocal in terms of what i
want from a song, or production, or creative directions. I write almost all of my songs, i’m in charge of rehearsals when it comes to dancing. I’ve had to learn how to be a leader where as in the group i was quite happy playing that laid back ‘its whatever’ position. Im a Boss now.. lol AS A UK MALE RNB SINGER, DO YOU OFTEN GET COMPARED TO US ARTISTS AND HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE COMPARISON? Believe it or not i don’t get comparisons anymore! i’m different from Neyo, Jason Derulo or even Angel! however… i do feel like i could do the styles of all of the above artists.. which is good but i don’t really get compared anymore. i think its the hair. -Oh! i get told i look like Future a lot tho. YOUR OBVIOUSLY A VERY TALENT INDIVIDUAL, YOU SING, YOU DANCE- IS THERE ANYTHING MUSICALLY YOU CAN’T DO OR WOULD LIKE TO IMPROVE ON? Thank you!.. (big Smile) In music i love energy, i chase after production that has a lot of energy be it slow or fast. I find that Afro Beats have that bounce and im a big fan of that style so i wish i could speak an african language so then i’d be more authentic on a afro beat tune.. lol WHO WOULD YOU SAY YOU INSPIRES AND WHY? Aside from the Greats, Micheal Jackson, Fred Astaire, Gladys Knight, BoyzIIMen I look up to the talented people around me, the Artist and Producers who are doing it big in their own environments IE: Harmony Samuels, Moodini (LunaKidz), Angel, Hayley Cassidy, Poppa Sprinkle.. The List could Go on! ONE MAJOR DIFFERENCE PEOPLE MIGHT NOTICE ABOUT YOU IS YOU HAIR- YOU PREVIOUSLY HAD BRAIDS BEFORE- WHAT MADE YOU CHANGE YOUR HAIR STYLE? I have tried every hairstyle since cutting my braids and none of them seemed to be working for me. Im used to having long hair and when my hair is short i don’t feel like i stand out at all. When i decided to get back into music i wanted to be different from the other guys doing music in this country, i feel Like its very traditional to have a fade or crew cut so i really wanted to be different from that. My father had Locks, so did my Mother so that was the direction i
chose to go. I feel like i stand out more now. YOU HAVE BEEN IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS NOW WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MAJOR CHALLENGES YOU FACE AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM? There are countless Obstacles!.. lol i’ll tell you the key lesson i’ve had to learn. Being in the group with all the travelling and performing and meeting famous people and the Parties you quickly become separated from reality. You don’t realise how far from it you are until it all goes away and thats when you hit rock bottom. I had to reset myself, get a job, go back to uni and relearn how to live a normal life. Having something to fall back on is VITALLY important, i have that now so music is a hobby.. To a certain extent thats watt it should be until it can pay all your bills. HAVE YOU EVER HAD ANY EMBARRASSING MOMENTS PERFORMING? We (the group) performed at a park event, in the heat of the moment i jumped off the stage and and started singing my verse to this young woman and i got too close, She grabbed my hair and pulled me in for a kiss, all tongue! i tried to pull away but she was STRONG! when security got me out the situation i had lipstick all over my face. had to go off stage for 30 seconds to get wet wipes to sort the situation.. i do not get that close anymore.. ever! TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT WE DON’T KNOW? I play Football for a Sunday League team on weekends, Left wing.. Im fast! YOUR LATEST EP DROPPED MARCH 16- WHAT HAS THE FEEDBACK BEEN LIKE? I think that was the date for one of the videos i released.. But the tracks that have been heard so far have been well received, im hoping that when people hear the rest they wont be disappointed. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL SOUND- AS YOU HAVE HAVE DONE MOST (URBAN)MUSIC STYLES AND WHAT IS YOU FAVOURITE. My sound.. hmm.. I don’t have a specific sound, I set out to be quite versatile and i stick to that so from pop to urban i try to stay on top of being able to do it all. Im still a slow jam guy at heart tho, i work out to slow jams.. safe to say thats still my favourite. SOME OF THE SONGS ARE ROMANTIC AND SEXUAL, WOULD YOU SAY YOUR QUITE A LADIES MAN? AND ARE YOU SINGLE- AS A LOT OF YOUR FEMALE FANS WOULD LIKE TO KNOW. Yep im single, and no! im not a ladies man (i know
thats hard to believe) people generally just look at me and think “he’s obviously a player” (bet your thinking that ritght now) when just like any other man i can be, but im not! I do place my experiences in my songs and if its not a experience then its a fantasy that i can never have, when you hear the slow songs on the album you can try to decide whats real and whats not. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE TRACKS ON YOUR EP? Body was the song that showed me how creatively limitless me and Moodini (Lunakidz) could potentially be. One More Dink - Is an actual experience i had at a Wine Bar.. Even When it Hurts - Me and Sprinks (Oceans Music) were talking about why i stayed with my ex for so long, this song was the answer to that question. Brokenhearted - This Actually Happened.. all of it! WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOU IN THE NEAR FUTURE, A NEW ALBUM? Absolutely, we’ve already started working on new material and were up to 8 solid songs already. Look out for me in the summer, This really is just a warm-up for that. ANY LAST WORDS FOR YOUR FANS? Instagrammers and Tweeters come find me! @KyleLettman Tell me what you thought of the album, how you think i’ve been doing so far or just say hi. To everyone who’s believed in me since FDM days, I’ll make you all proud i promise and if your new to me, welcome to the fun.. lol
24/7MUSIC SINGLES
24/7 Recommends...
catchy chorus make the track bearable. The production on the tracks has all the usual attribute to a club song, in you face and catchy. Rating: 3/5
ED SHEERAN- SING (2 JUNE)
The Lego House singer, Ed Sheeran is back with his latest offering Sing taken from his new album Multiply The track itself is an unbent pop/ RnB influenced track, demonstrating the vocal ability of Sheeran. Production wise the song is greatas it is an easy listen. Like most of Sheeran’s song, this one is catchy with its a appealing chorus and instrumentals throughout the track., in particular the guitar rifts. The song in fact was inspired by Justin Timberlake- and you can definitely see the influences from him on the song-which in fact is a good thing, but still manage to have his on flare on it. The song will do well as it is fresh and very current, and has attitude. Rating: 4/5
MARIAH CAREY- MINE ETERNAL (28 APRIL) Mariah Carey has been absent from the music scene of late, but she has returned with the track Mine Eternal -from her forthcoming new album Me. I Am Mariah ... The Elusive Chanteuse, which will be released on the 27 May 2014. The song is about not getting that special person out your head. Upon first hearing I was not completely convinced that i would actually like the track Its an easy listen and the production is not overdone. the track is a RnB with a pop flare to it. Undoubtedly she has the potential to still be a relevant artist but I do not feel that this song will be the track to reestablish her as a current artist- nor will it have the same success as We belong together from a few years back. Rating 3.5/5
ENRIQUE IGLESIAS- TURN THE NIGHT UP (19 MAY)
Singing casanova, Enrique Iglesias releases his new single Turn The Night Up The track itself is a party club track and is a little different from what we usually hear from the Latin American star. Tracks like this can sometime be annoying- but the simple lyrics and
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE- NOT A BAD THING (5 MAY)
Timberlake’s latest offering is, Not A Bad Thing- which is a love song, quite a contrast from what we have heard from RnB superstar of late. The track itself taken off from his current album “The 20/20 Experience” He is incredible and his singing ability and vocals are great on the track. The production on the track is very well put together, featuring an array of instruments. The precessions work well on the track along with saxophone- and his vocals gel to it all producing this. Despite being a love song its one of those tracks that you could probably listen to at pretty much any moment. Im sure this song will do well when it release as most people can relate to the track. Rating: 4/5
SHAKIRA- EMPRE (5 MAY)
The Hips Don’t Lie artist, Shakira releases Empire off of her self titled album, Shakira. The track itself sees the Latin beauty returning to her rock roots which most critics are praising the singer for. The track is basically talking about how she feels alive when she is with her boyfriend. Commercially the song has been doing well within European already
debuting within the top hundred. This track however is sure to go down well with people who are into more edgier alternative sound. Vocally, she does not push herself on the track- nor does actually need excessive vocals- it works well on the track though. Rating 3/5
infectious chorus- which propels you into a higher gear. Rating: 3.5/5
PHARRELL WILLIAMS-MARILYN MONROE (27 APR)
Marilyn Monroe, is the latest cut from Artist and Music Producer, Pharrell Williams off his latest album, G.I.R.L. The song itself he dismisses beautiful prolific female figure including Marilyn Monroe, and Cleopatra who were iconic figuresbut he just wants a different girl. He can do no wrong and this track is great and will definitely get you moving. Pharrell is the man of the moment! Rating: 4.5/5
Headlights is taken from Eminems eighth studio album The Marshall Mathers LP 2 released last year. The track is an apologetic confession to the mother of the controversial rapper- in which he apologises to his mum for all his wrong doings including cursing her out and airing out their dirty laundry so to speak. The rapping on the track is usual Eminem, but you can feel the sadness and sincerity in when he raps. The production of the track is not too technical. The simple beat works well along with the guest vocals from Nate Ruess, who gives it some mucn needed depth.
LADY GAGA- G.U.Y. (12 MAY)
The Poker Face singer, Lady Gaga’s latest offering is the track G.U.Y. The main appeal of her as an artist IS that she is creative, and unique in her own right. This song only highlights this. G.U.Y. is an acronym for “Girl Under You whereby the distinction between gender equality and willful sexual submission is illustrated. The track is a Pop-electro with a retro feel to it. Featuring qwerky lyrics The chorus is catchy and extremely repetative- but this only adds to insaneness of the song. Vocally the track is nothing to shout about, but the production has been well put together. Im sure it will do well when its released, it has alot of commercial appeal to it. Rating: 3.5/5
EMINEM- HEADLIGHTS (19 MAY)
Rating: 3.5/5
RITA ORA- I WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN (12 MAY)
Having been out of the music scene for a minute, Uk artist Rita Ora returns with, I will never let you down. The song is about not disappointing that special someone. The track is well put together and she adds a right amount and vocal tones to the track without sounding ridiculous. The balance of instrumentals also works well on the song. The song itself has electro pop flares running throughout it and tho is complimented by a speeded up
TAIO CRUZ- DONT YOU DARE (12 MAY)
NOT REVIEWED.
RICK ROSS FT LIL WAYNE-THUG CRY (19 MAY)
Thug cry is the latest cut from the boss that is Rick Ross. This track will sure become a hit this summer. The track itself is well produced and raps from Ross are hard. The beat on the track infectious, complimented with the vocals work well on the song. The track has a slick laid back feel about but still keeps its hardcore hip hop edge to. The track features guest rapper Lil Wayne, who as usual lays down his flows effortless on the track in his own style The track will be a hit in the clubs or just driving in your car. Rating: 3.5/5
SAM SMITH- STAY WITH ME (19 MAY)
Stay With me is the latest single, from newcomer, Sam Smith. The track is a gospel inspired song about not loosing that special person and missing them. The vocals on the track are effortless and Smith demonstrates he is an exception vocalist and UK talent- which does not go amiss. The production on the track is simple and works well for the track and it is a calm song with a very relaxed feel to it. The song itself might not appeal to the masses- however for those who are into singing will appreciate the track for what it is. Rating: 3.5/5
@24sevenLive
24/7FOOD C *EX
L
* E V I US
By Gavin Peters & Dominique Leigertwood
GYMS KITCHEN
IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD OF GYMS KITCHEN WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN. THE POPULAR BRAND RUN BY THREE YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR IS FAST BECOMING ONE OF OUR HIGH STREETS MOST POPULAR HEALTHY EATING FOOD RESTAURANTS IN LONDON. HAVING NOW OPEN UP THEIR SECOND BRANCH IN GANTS HILL, ILFORD, THE BUSINESS IS GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH AND IS BECOMING A FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT NOT ONLY JUST FOR HEALTH FANATICS. 24/7 LIVE CAUGHT UP WITH ONE OF THE RESTAURANTS DIRECTOR’S STEVEN MAVROU’S TO GET A LITTLE INSIGHT INTO THE BRAND ALSO HAD A BITE TO EAT TOO...
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW GYM’S KITCHEN CAME ABOUT? The restaurant came about when 3 best friends since age 7 all went on holiday with each other. We all went for breakfast one morning and we ordered protein breakfasts on the menu. We realised then that there was nothing like this in the UK. We all train in the gym and noticed thought there is no where specific that offered appropriate after gym food. There has always been kebab shops and other establishments, but those places there is always the temptation of bread and dips Luckily for us we e are all in the hospitality industry, so I had buildings and restaurants with other people, one of the partners owns an abattoir - so all the meat is sourced direct and my other business partner is a nutritionist. So between the 3 of us we had the idea which was a bit of fun at the start then we realised its potential and we built our first Gyms Kitchen 15 months ago. ARE YOU SURPRISE AT HOW POPULAR IT HAS BECOME? We are extremely surprised I mean we have always believed in the concept and always loved the concept- but for it to do so well and pull it so many good people we are over the moon with. But I mean there is a lot of hype about us - but we believe if we keep the food very fresh, very organic - it’s all
Pictured from left to right, owners of Gyms Kitchen: Sunny kudhail, Richard Klein and Steven Mavrou.
about the food. As long as the food is fresh we are happy! WHAT IS THE GENERAL APPEAL OF THE BRAND, AS LOT TO PEOPLE INCLUDING CELEBS SEEM TO ENDORSE THE BRAND? We put a twist on health eating it’s a really young, fun, cool, friendly place, everything is open, everything’s honest - we work with open plan kitchens where everything can be seen. We play nice happy music and it’s a cool place. You can come here in shorts or in a sports vest there’s no pretentiousness- it is what it is. We are just an open and honest business.
DO YOU HAVE CELEBRITY CLIENTS AND WHAT DO THEY THINK OF GYM’S KITCHEN? We have had premiership footballers like the Kyle Walker and former Manchester United star Teddy Sheringham, Tulisa and Little Mix have all eaten in the restaurant. The Only Way Is Essex cast are regulars and they have helped us out a lot. Body builders like Zack Khan and Robin Lamont. People talking about us at the moment include Jessie J, David Weir and various sports stars. But the best thing about it is it’s not just sports stars it’s everyday people are talking about our restaurant. SO IS THE RESTAURANT PRIMARILY AIMED AT SPORTS PEOPLE AND ATHLETES? Initially yes, but we realised it was a small market to attack. We built the restaurant designed for bodybuilders and that’s who we catered the menu to primarily. But as we grew and evolved we extended our menu to cater for all and have become more of an everyday restaurant. We are now being percieved as a popular healthy eating outlet- you don’t have to come from the gym to eat with us. If you just want clean healthy food without the temptation of fatty foods. We have a great mixed clientele, old people, young people, been that have gone gym, others that have never been gym in their lives. they come here and eat with the added option of eating clean.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED? Like with every restaurant it’s the food quality. We don’t marinate in fats, butters and cream we have to ensure that all our products are fresh at all times. If the product reduces we can’t cover up with sauces and frying it so the produce is the most important thing. Keeping everything fresh and healthy is very difficult. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE DISH? My favourite dish has got to be the lamb chops, the red meat here is pretty good, it tastes amazing!
DO YOU GUYS EAT HEALTHY ALL THE TIMEAS YOU WORK IN A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT? Obviously I do now, I eat 3 times a day, 7 days a week. It is nice that everyone has a variety on the menu, so for someone who eats here quite regularly there is something new on the menu for everyday from fish to steak, and obviously the vegetarian option, we cater for everyone. DO YOU HAVE ANY MEMORABLE MOMENTS SINCE OPENING? The first day that we ever built this, we opened it and everything was fresh and we looked around and there was not one customer in sight. Over time we worked hard and pulled and got everyone out The restaurant was built for every high road so if the and support we got from everyone else has really concept can work then, which should work on every helped us. high road- our options are endless and we hope to pick wherever we want. It will work across the country YOU HAVE HAVE RECENTLY OPENED A NEW however we still need to manage the restaurants inBRANCH IN GANTS HILL, DO YOU HAVE ANY dependently, until we find a way we can manage them PLANS TO OPEN UP ANY MORE? without being hands on. Yeah, the business plans state that we will open a new restaurant once every 12 months, so far we have kept to that. We are six months in with a view that possibly in six months we will open our third.
24/7REVIEW: Gyms Kitchen ‘EAT CLEAN, TRAIN DIRTY’
By Gavin Peters & Dominique Leigterwood
flavoured and adds some depth to an already wholesome meal
Having only myself just come from the gym, I met up with my 24/7 Live colleague Dominique where we were to do a food review on much talked about Gyms Kitchen restaurant in Leyton, East London.
A must is the strawberry cheesecake protein shake a guilt free treat that tastes absolutely heavenly
The restaurant itself is well presented, exceptionally clean and attractive. The Leyton branch is the ideal location for those of you who want to just grab something quickly and go. As we entered the establishment we were welcome by the friendly staff behind the counter who were happy to serve us. Once seated, we had our orders taken, where we both opted for a half Chicken with Rice and Salad, with that I had a Strawberry cheesecake Protein shake and Dominique had conservative glass of water. When our food arrived we were very impressed with the overall presentation of the food. Laid out on a rectangular platter, it was a generous portion that would have even the most ravenous gymgoer or athlete pleased that that they chose this eatery for a healthy post workout meal. The chicken was good - i mean very good, grilled and seasoned well and eaten safe in the knowledge that the food was ‘clean’. These guy were on point with the salad and garnish too, the the balance was just right. A leaf of lettuce accompanied with finely chopped vegetables in a light marinade. Adding rice to this meal choice is a great menu idea it’s well
The restaurant has a very casual but relaxed vibe. Despite the initial idea of this restaurant catering only for gym goer, body builders and athletes, they have clearly found a much needed gap in the market. The Verdict Gym’s Kitchen is a wonderful dining experience their food is constistently good and more importantly very tasty.The staff are attentive, polite, very friendly and the prices are affordableWe both agreed that we will come back, there is so much choice and selection on offer here- its makes it more appealing and is the affordable healthy option. RATING 4.5/5
24/7MONEYWISE
By Damien Brome
“Disruptive Finance and Banking: The Land Before Time”
“So the five hungry dinosaurs set off for the Great Valley. There had never been such a herd before. A long neck, a three-horn, a big mouth, a flyer, and a spike-tail all together, all knowing that if they lost their way, they would starve or find themselves in Sharptooth’s shadow.”
The (slightly) older readers will remember this narrative from the animation classic, The Land Before Time, which hit cinemas in 1988. The story for those of you too young to remember focuses on five orphan dinosaurs (starring a young Apatosaurus called Littlefoot – don’t ask me why I remember that) that lost their families in the midst of apocalyptic events. The (slightly) older readers will remember this narrative from the animation classic, The Land Before Time, which hit cinemas in 1988. The story for those of you too young to remember focuses on five orphan dinosaurs (starring a young Apatosaurus called Littlefoot – don’t ask me why I remember that) that lost their families in the midst of apocalyptic events. They have to band together to survive as they travel towards a Promise Land-style Great Valley - where they would be safe and live happily ever after.
THE RISE OF THE CROWD Does anyone remember bank loans? I vaguely recall a time where if someone had a good idea for a business, they went cap in hand to their bank manager with a business plan in order to raise the appropriate funds. The bank manager would give them a hug and pour bags of money into their coat pockets to spend on their venture…
That was pre-2008. It was a pre-Credit Crunch world where lions ate grass and people paid to text each other. Those days are long There’s a similar danger on the horizon for traditional retail banking. gone – bank loans now come with severe financial ties and sufOld school consumer banking and personal finance are being refocating terms, which makes them inaccessible to many (and creinvented – “disrupted” by a swathe of innovative financial services ated a liquidity crisis that we can chat about another time). platforms. There was a burgeoning mismatch between the supply of cash and The rationale and call to action for these young companies is its demand from businesses, especially startups. And much like simple. Retail banking is convoluted and takes a long time to do in nature, business evolves to find a way around a problem that anything. Simple acts like transferring some cash to your mates to impedes creation. split the cost of dinner and drinks after an evening out. Take the loan example. Crowdfunding was born from simple prinOr loaning 20 quid to your brother who was slightly short until ciples – getting your mates to invest in your business ideas. If you payday – until very recently, would require an appointment with need say, £1000 to make a business fly, it can be collected £1 at your local Natwest/Barclays/Lloyds, RBS/Big Bank customer liaia time from 1000 people. You get your cash and the risk of investson person with a number of security checks and hoops awaiting ment loss to the lenders is small. you, ready to absorb your time and patience. Take this idea and amplify it via the web-based crowd funding The rise of the internet, and the mobile web in particular has platforms - Kickstarter, Seedrs, CrowdCube to name three – so heralded a wealth of opportunities to cater to burgeoning client that your loan/funding request reaches hundreds of thousands, if needs. Personalization of service and increased service speed are not millions of potential investors. customer requirements which have come to the fore, facilitated by the functionality and capability of smart phones and tablets Crowdfunding has found a way around the traditional banking (and “phablets” – don’t laugh, that’s a real term). The logic stands model and has removed the need to fill out endless application that transferring phone numbers can be done by merely being in forms and wait 10 business days (aka 3 weeks) for a response that a shared space with another smart phone owner, or by bumping always seems to come “from the Bristol Head Office”. the devices themselves – why shouldn’t managing finances be this simple? It also moves the funding conversation back onto the idea – as opposed to a person’s credit rating. It examines the credibility of the
proposal for a new shoe/3D printing machine/spaceship/etc and funds it based on those principles (or not, as the case may be). Peer to Peer Lending as it is officially titled, knows no bounds. Every dream is capable of being crowd funded, from films to NotFor-Profit ventures to make a difference on a philanthropic level. Banks are still trying to understand how to incorporate crowd funding concepts into their own business models, but it is proving difficult.
model which relies on hiding the finer details about customer fees and money management. As such, Simple has scrapped fees and provide a transparent customer service model. Simple’s core offering is easy-to-use apps and great customer service. They focus on their financial management tools like Goals, which enable customers to set saving targets, such as a holiday or mortgage deposit and reports the progress toward reaching that goal.They currently offer personal checking accounts, debit cards, bill pay, and instant money transfer, completing $1.6 billion in transactions, in 2013. Online services such as Simple removes the need to ask a traditional bank for anything – the Goals function removes the need to put aside specific saving accounts or putting standing orders against yourself to ensure you can afford that trip to Ibiza in August. And it’s all performed from the palm of your hand, without an appointment with someone with a safe sounding soundbite name like “Greg” or “Chris” who is at least fifteen years younger than you and feigns interest in your financial ambition to move out of your mum’s house by the time you are 48 (I hasten to add that this is obviously a hypothetical example…) THE END IS NIGH
PERSONAL FINANCES SHOULD BE SIMPLE One arena where banks feel that they can catch up swiftly is the personalization of services. I walked into my local branch the other day to make a payment to the taxman (a sum which had me apoplectic with rage (but less about my problems), and I was confronted with a row of iPads where cashiers used to live and count my money into piles of pennies and 5ps. The branch manager reassured me that I could perform most of my tax paying activity on the iPads that were hanging there, gleaming in the sun. It seems to be a move in the right direction so as to keep pace with the industry disrupters, but some startups are going further. Take Simple for example, an Oregon-based online bank. Simple’s vision is derived from the notion that large banks have a revenue
Unfortunately for the high street banks we use, there is much work to do, in all arenas. Swifter banking is necessary. More personalization of services is a must. They need to change their credit models to keep pace with the crowd funding phenomena. And if all of that isn’t enough, there’s another event on the horizon. The Zuckerberg Express is coming to town. It’s like Biff from back to the future has just entered the dance and this time, Marty McFly can’t save his mum from a Biff-laden fate. Facebook has applied for a financial license in Ireland and playing around with a number of payment transfer models as we speak. Going back to the quote at the start of this article, will the big banks survive? Well, that collection of orphans made it to the Great Valley, but learnt many lessons before the end (it was a Spielberg film after all), but that wasn’t before a few of them were savagely torn to pieces by hordes of Tyrannosaurus Rex… maybe I made that last bit up, but I think that this twist might bear through for a bank or two unless they pick up the pace and start making changes fast.
24/7GAMING
By Darren Lobban
Infamous second son review
So the PlayStation 4’s biggest first party exclusive game so far has hit the streets with a super powered conduit but should you buy it? I think you should even though the game isn’t as good as it could be. The first thing you notice about infamous is how pretty everything looks, and I literally mean everything, the moles on the main characters faces to the textures on the wall or pavement. Hands down this is the best looking console game this generation and normally an open world game wouldn’t look so good because resources would need to be used else where just to make a game like this run well. This is not an issue for this game or the PlayStation 4 seemingly as it runs as well as it looks. The game play revolves around you using and acquiring a few super powers and simply having fun with them, there is a main story arch as well as side missions.
Completing them is really quite enjoyable because of how your character (Delsin Monroe) controls, you can be a super villain or hero depending on your actions and choices you choose at certain plot points during the game. The sound is excellent with effects and music being used to heighten the tension at specific story points, that’s also where we see infamous’s only real weak point...the story. Unlike infamous one and two on the PlayStation 3 your character in this infamous game doesn’t make you care for him or hate him, its all rather meh. Don’t get me wrong the game as a whole is great mostly because of the gameplay and pretty graphics but you just won’t be inspired by the story, if the story in infamous was a movie it would be the last Fantastic Four film when it should be the Avengers! if you think the Fantastic Four was a good film then you need a harsh slap to the chops by a butch female eastern European track athlete.
Most people would take great game play and fantastic visuals over story in a open world sand box game but grand theft auto and sleeping dogs have proven you can also have your cake and eat it. Infamous second son is available for the PlayStation 4 and gets a 8.5/10
24/7SNEAKERPIMP
By Grant Richards
The Adidas Revolution
When it comes to hyped footwear, the brand with the three stripes has been left quaking in Nike’s shadow for far too long now. All that heritage, all that power and dominance in so many different sporting arenas, but when it comes down to fuelling the frenzy, Adidas often came up short. After a flurry of solid releases including the sweet looking ZX Flux Pack, it’s all change out there in the sneaker world. kept very limited and we were kept wanting. Like with some of the 35th Anniversary Superstars range. Then there were collections such as the Star Wars collaboration that were, on paper, a collector’s wet dream, but in reality, mainly hit the sale racks and also looked pretty hideous, if the truth be told. The Force was not strong in them I feel.
Is it a case of people growing tired of Nike’s games? I do think there is an element of that at play here. You’re getting hypebeast queues at shops like Foot Patrol for Saucony, Asics and New Balance, so Nike aren’t having it all their own way. I think people are looking at different options and are definitely growing tired of Nike’s lazy and often played out production line of Air Max 1s, Huaraches et al. Who better to capitalise on that slackness, than a brand that has a heritage range to die for, for example the recent Stan Smith collaborations, and a new found vigour for eye-catching footwear that has sneaker heads salivating out there right now. I’m not saying that Adidas had totally lost their way and were producing undesirable kicks. They just didn’t seem to really grab your attention in the right way. Of course there are the Jeremy Scott collaborations that were, and continue to be just a joke. I mean who actually wears these monstrosities?? I seem to recall seeing Jedward in them. Enough said!! There were collections, where numbers were 68
I’ve never been the sort of guy that will queue over night for a shoe. I don’t think I really want anything quite that much, but that militant behaviour is a sure fire sign of the rarity and desire for footwear. Will Adidas see more of this in the future? Let us not forget there is a Kanye West partnership now, so what will that pairing bring us? I have high expectations and if the hype is even half of what occurred around the Nike Yeezy releases, then
Adidas have pulled it right out of the bag. There has been previous heat. Remember the BAPE collaborations? They have definitely done the trick. If you’re sitting on a pair of those, you’re a very lucky person. It’s all about creating that hype and desirability and the brand with the Swoosh are masters
at that. They have us feening for the next drop for sure. However, I’ve seen a real shift across social media that suggests the phoenix has well and truly risen from the flames. The one thing I don’t really see from Adidas are
that many new designs that have people going nuts over. The ZX Flux range I mentioned above, are a variation on the classic ZX8000 Torsion shoe. The fantastic EQT range, again are an old shoe dropping with tasty colourways. Take a look on Adidas’ Instagram and you’ll mainly find old silhouettes with tasty makeovers. But does it matter that most of the shoes are old designs? Most of the trainers on sneaker heads feet are old designs, who cares whether they are old as long as the kicks are banging?
24/7TRAVEL
Caribbean: GUADELOUPE
In the southernmost part of the Leeward Islands, in the Eastern Caribbean lies the beautiful French-speaking island of Guadeloupe. Comprising of two islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre merely separated by a narrow piece of sea channel known as the Salt River.
Having been to many Caribbean islands, there was a definite notable difference from the rest I had previously visited. Guadeloupe is very much developed. For me it was like being back home in Europe, minus the crap weather. The island has everything you need, hot weather, friendly people and more importantly its in the caribbean. One noticeable thing about the island is the beautiful water around the island, which is why its given the name “Karukera” meaning island with beautiful waters, complimented by by the endless tropical sun all year round. If your wanting a relaxing and lounging holiday then the island will charm you with all it has to offer. The island is vibrant and colourful and has a lot to do. THINGS TO DO Grande-Terre boasts some of the most idyllic beaches in the caribbean with its stunning turquoise lagoons. The north side of the island has the perfect fertile soil for growing sugar cane and this side of the island is covered with plantations. Amongst this other things to do on the north side of the island include visiting the L’église Saint-Pierre et SaintPaul Bascilica in Pointe-à-Pitre. Gosier Islet—explore the tropical marine life from the new and improved underwater trail (way marked and free to the public). La Pointe-des-Châteaux—a site of unparalleled biodiversity and archaeological treasures that has been 70
named Grand Site de France. Basse-terre the souther point of the island dominated by the Soufrière Volcano. Much of the mountain range is a tropical rainforest, perfect for budding hikers. there are stunning waterfalls, basins and lucious green vegetation can be found- an outstanding beauty. Why not visit Frances seventh national Park Les Chutes du Carbet—spectacular waterfalls in Capes-
terre-Belle-Eau is a beautiful site of natures beauty. Those who are chocoholics visit the L’Habitation La Grivelière—a coffee and cocoa plantation in Vieux Habitants dating back to the 1700s. There is also a lot of culture and history, Basse-Terre— this town, dubbed the City of Art and History, is known for its historic neighbourhoods and the famous Fort Delgrès.
Villas are composed as a little village in a railed flourished park, directly located by the sea. Le Jardin Malanga, from $ 167,50 per person, per night Surrounded by fruit trees and lush vegetation, the Jardin Malanga includes a 1927 colonial house , based near It is at the foot of an extinct volcano
WHERE TO STAY Here I have listed some stunning locations you could stay whilst on the island; La Creole Beach Hôtel & Spa, Free for kids Starting from $89 person, per night. Situated at the heart of a tropical garden, among palm trees, hibiscuses and bougainvillea, close to a beach of white sand. Villas Aquarelles
HOW TO GET HERE. Unfortunately there are no direct flights from the UK, you would need to catch a connect flight from France, which has several carriers which fly directly to the island. From the UK several carriers including BA and Virgin Atlantic fly to neighbouring islands where you can take connecting flights via Liat Airlines- which flys to all the Caribbean. Guadeloupe is a perfect setting for all those wanting to chill relax or just have fun- the island has it all- and I can’t wait to return! 71
24/7FITNESS &HEALTH
By Fabian Collymore
What, specifically, can sports massage therapy do for athletes?
Sports massage it can improve training, with sports massage therapy easing muscle pain and potential injury during strenuous days. Sports massage can also keep muscles flexible and healthy during lighter days or periods of training. It can improve performance. Sports massage before competitions can energize muscles and aid in stretching and warm-up exercises. It can also help limit the amount of pain and potential injury after grueling events. It also can improve health. Massage therapy has been proven to improve the body’s circulation, essential for the removal of metabolic waste, but also important in maintaining a healthy immune system. Sports massage therapy has benefits for athletes of all sports. Be it basketball, hockey, lacrosse, swimming, running, bicycling, football, golf, basketball, soccer, tennis or any of the many other athletic pursuits out there, sports massage can be a great way to ensure the best possible health and condition of athletes, during training and at competitions. There’s a reason why almost half of all professional massage therapists practice sports massage therapy, and why nearly half of all treatment given to athletes at major, international competitions comes in the form of sports massage therapy. Quite simply: It works.
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Does age play a part in sports performance?
The natural process of getting older usually affects everyone in a way or the other. Getting older usually reduces the stamina of a sporty person by gradually depriving him or her of his/her muscle power. With increasing age, the metabolic rate also decreases. This means that the person will not be able to burn as much cholesterol hence weight loss problems and unfitness sets in. Age affects performance in sports in a number of ways. These include decreased ability to respond to activity which is brought about by lose of tissue and fibre mass. Also as age progress, the heart of sports men weakens hence leading to them getting tired quickly. The bones also weaken making them prone to fractures.
RODGER FEDERER- TENNIS PLAYER, 32
FLOYD MAYWEATHER-BOXER, 37
Age affects sports performance in that the stamina reduces with increase in age. It is also good to note that as one grows older, their body changes and there is an overall reduction in performance. Your muscles begin to lose tissue and fibre mass which decreases your ability to respond to activity. Your tendons also lose water which makes them less effective. Your heart also weakens which causes you to tire more rapidly. Age affects sports performance in various ways. For instance, teenagers are more flexible in sports than old people. In addition, our capacity to transport and use oxygen falls as we age thus young people tend to have more speed than old people. Also, strength which is needed in sports tends to reduce in our 40’s going upwards because protein levels and muscle mass falls. When you are at the top of the sports does age even matter I think not below is four sports men that are doing very well regardless of there age, they would say its all about how you manager your body.
RYAN GIGGS-FOOTBALLER, 37
FOAM ROLLER A lot of trainers and others are recommending foam roller exercises for tight muscles, as well as some kinds of muscle and joint pain. Foam rollers are a new kind of fitness aid. Foam roller design is very simple. The device consists of a cylindrical cone of resistant foam. This roller is placed between the body and the floor, or in other positions for various activities. Foam rollers can help with muscle conditions, but they are also used to promote agility and balance, and to strengthen the core muscles, such as those that stabilize the spine and support simple body motions. PROBLEMS WITH TIGHT MUSCLES Many us experience problems with tight muscles. These are similar to other conditions, in which soft tissue adheres to a muscle group (medical experts call this adherence) and causes the area to become tight. The tissue that can cause a problem is often referred to as fascia. USING FOAM ROLLERS To relieve problems with tight muscles or fascia issues, the foam roller acts as a massaging tool. The user can position the foam roller beneath them and roll back and forth. The foam roller then connects with the muscle and underlying tissues, kneading them and making them looser, also improving some types of connective tissue problems. This is called myofascial release, and it’s one of the main uses of foam rollers for pain therapy, muscle massage and overall fitness improvement. MUSCLE THERAPY EXERCISES Some of the main common foam roller exercises target specific muscle groups for loosening any tight spots that the user might have. For example, if the individual lies on his or her side, rolling the foam roller from the hip to the knee, it works the body area known as the IT band, where some muscle and connective tissue problems can often occur. Foam roller exercises can also be good for the lower back. Generally, the user lies face up with the foam roller under their upper or lower back. As they roll up and down on the roller, they work all of the spinal support muscle areas and loosen any tightness there. A variety of other exercises work differ body areas. Foam rollers have been effective for many in eliminating tight spots, also called trigger areas, and improving range of motion and overall body response. HALF AND FULL FOAM ROLLERS Most of the above exercises are done with full cylinder rollers. As an alternative, fitness participants can use half foam rollers, where one side of the roller rests solidly on the ground, rather than rolling back and forth. Though half rollers are generally limited to specific kinds of use, they can be more helpful for activities where rolling back and forth is not part of the required motion for the user. The foam roller exercises mentioned above are only a small part of what you can experience with a foam roller program. Take a look at all that can be done using these portable, simple tools.
Compound training
WHAT ARE COMPOUND EXERCISES? HYPERLINK \l “calendar:T5:Today” Today’s fitness programs tend to focus on functional fitness, which refers to exercise that simulates real-life activities and uses a wide variety of movements through a wide range of motion. At the heart of these routines are a variety of compound exercises. Compound exercises are multi-joint movements that work several muscles or muscle groups at one time. A great example of a compound exercise is the squat exercise, which engages many muscles in the lower body and core, including the quadriceps, the hamstrings, the calves, the glutes, the lower back and the core. WHAT ARE ISOLATION EXERCISES? Isolation exercises work only one muscle or muscle group and only one joint at a time. Examples of isolation exercises include the biceps curl or the quadriceps extension. These exercises are often performed with the commercial weight machines found in health clubs. The idea is to isolate one muscle group and move from from one machine to the next until you “work” your whole body. Isolation exercises are frequently used in physical therapy clinics and rehab centers in order to correct a specific muscle weakness or imbalance that often occurs after injury, illness, surgery or certain diseases. WHY USE COMPOUND EXERCISES? For healthy athletes who are trying to get the most out of a training program, compound exercises are generally preferred and recommended. There are many reasons to use compound exercises during your workout, including the following: USING MORE MUSCLE GROUPS. . . means MORE calories burned during exercise. simulates real-world exercises and activities. allows you to get a full body workout faster. improves coordination, reaction time and balance. improves joint stability and improves muscle balance across a joint. decreases the risk of injury during sports. keeps your heart rate up and provides cardiovascular benefits. allows you to exercise longer with less muscle fatigue. allows you to lift heavier loads and build more strength. Compound training
FABIAN’s FITNESS
OLYMPIC AND COMMONWEALTH ATHLETE
PERSONAL TRAINER ‘You can achieve real results’ -Want to lose weight? -Sculpt your body? -Reach new goals?
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Contact me on: Tel: 07940418172 Email: Fabiancollymore1@hotmail.com Twitter: @sportsc980
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24/7BubblingUnder
BRIEFLY TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF? Im 21 year old female born from Camden, North London. I grew up with my mum who was a female bass player in a successful punk band, ‘The Men They Couldn’t Hang and The Nips With Shane McGowan. I was also really into sports representing Great Britain in international competitions and actually came 3rd in Germany and i was ranked number 1 In The UK.I also play the piano, guitar and make beats using Logic Pro. I sing, rap and mc.
lyrics from the album and searched up her solo music too. Another influence was The Sugarbabes. I liked the 1st generation with singer Siobhan Doherty and the song Overload, but the 2nd generations albums (main album Angels With Dirty Faces) really did it for me. I love Mutya Buena, Keisha and Heidis harmonies, and their individual voices got me singing a lot. I won win singing competitions as a little girl singing stronger. Other artists I listened to religiously were Kelis that Milkshake song just got me gassed, then i got the album for my birthday and i really liked her other songs. Sean Paul’s album Dutty Rock is what got me thinking about dance music and certain vibes. Shanks and big Foot, ‘Sweet Like Chocolate’ -i didn’t know what genre was till my sister took me in her car and put on a garage classics cd, i then fell in love with every garage song.
HOW DID YOUR NAME COME ABOUT? My real Name is Eucalypta given to me by my mum, its ancient Greek for well hidden and its also a Dutch cartoon character (I’m Half Dutch on my dads side). The name Lady Vengeance came about in the grime days when i was about 14, i experienced a lot of things. I thought to myself i will get my revenge through music. Now im older i tend to go by the name Eucalypta L.V as both are part of who i am. (most people call me L.V tho)
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO DO MUSIC? My mum obviously had a big impact on me doing music. From a young age i would see her on TV or doing gigs and shows and she got me in the Royal Academy Of Music to learn Guitar and Piano age 10. She also suggested i might like the school choir which i did. Ever since primary school I had a flare for Poetry and Writing songs which I would get all the girls in the class to sing along to. I have a thirst for knowledge and literally just love doing music!
GROWING UP WHO WERE YOUR INFLUENCES? Growing up I listened to my mums CD’s and a particular album I loved was The Score by The Fugees. Lauryn Hill inspired me soo much i learnt all her 78
Introducing... ‘Lady Vengeance’ TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR MUSIC AND YOUR STYLE- AND WHAT INFLUENCES MADE YOU IDENTIFY WHO YOU ARE? Putting a label on my music is a very hard because i like so many different styles of music and this has made me very versatile, I suppose I became a recording artist at age 14 making Grime music music rapping and singing choruses and doing collabs with artists in the area and people I met off myspace. At the same time I was composing songs on my guitar and performing them. People seemed to enjoy my songs and relating to the lyrics. As I grew older new genres of music came into fashion and I became fed up with producers still sending me Hip Hop and Grime beats that had not progressed. I started learning how to produce in my Music Btec National Diploma and thought i must take this further and eventually did. So now a days i am still versatile doing acoustic sets of covers and original material or making commercial dance music, hip hop, mcing over drum n bass and garage.... any music i make has to have a good bass line thats the rule ;) the influences are Garage, Deep House, Jungle, Drum N Bass Old School PoP Music/Rnb n then singers in the chart at the moment when they do acoustic sets on BBC like Rita Ora, Tulisa, Jessie J, Amy Whine House, Adele and still The Sugar babes now knowns as MKS haha HOW MUCH HAS MUSIC MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE GROWING UP? It has given me inspiration to succeed, it gives me motivation for everyday life, growing up without it i don’t know if id still be here because in this area its easy to be led down dark paths. It allowed me to meet and become friends with a vast amount of people I wouldn’t of met otherwise and i probably wouldn’t be the person i am today. I KNOW YOU USE TO MAKE BEATS AND PRODUCE, DO YOU ENJOY DOING THIS AS OPPOSE TO BEING AN ARTIST? Yeah defiantly i can now be 100% in control of what music i make, like i said earlier i was sick of producers sending me their music and thinking, this isn’t what i want to do, i could just hear these sounds in my head so its a great achievement. i’ll also get 100% royalties when the music is sold ;) oioiii. its totally different to singing and writing lyrics its kind of like playing an instrument but it opens many more windows of opportunity instead of just being an artist i can now make music for adverts, films, games, cartoons and its just plain fun. AS A FEMALE ARTIST, DO YOU FEEL THERE IS GROWING PRESSURE FROM YOUR MALE COUNTERPARTS? To be honest i don’t, being a female is an advantage especially if your good because there are so many male rappers even amongst there own sex it is hard to blow, i’ve had rap clashes and back to backs with a lot of men and won any way ;) haha, a lot of them are talking the same s*** any way all guns, drugs, money and woman its rare to find a real lyricist, but i do know a few. It could be the same argument for woman though theres so many singers out there but thats all they are and i’ve always refused to just be labeled as that, i have so many talents in music i refer to myself as a Music Business Woman. HOW MUCH HARDER DO FEMALES HAVE TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY? The music scene is very male dominated so you do have to work hard and thats why i think i’ve made sure i learnt every angle of it. Even managers if your a female singer they’l will just look at you like piggy bank trust me and i’m too smart to be ripped off or used, i make the rules its my creations !! when females do rap music i think its hard for them as well because a lot of the males wont listen to it or just take the mick. But i do believe certain woman in USA hiphop (LiL Kim, Mc Lyte Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah) and in Uk Grime and Garage ( Lioness, No.Lay, Mz Bratt, Ms Dynamite,Lisa Maffia, Alesha Dixon,Lady Leshurr) have helped pave the way. I have a lot of support from people, but i still find it hard to get the views up, get proper payed shows, radio time and generally get out there but im going to keep trying. WHAT FEEDBACK HAVE YOU BEEN GETTING FROM PEOPLE ABOUT YOUR MUSIC? Over the years people have said my music has really improved but people still post my first ever youtube upload Avenged Love (by Lady Vengeance) to this day calling me a legend and all my girls still chant the lyrics to my rap tunes from 6 years ago so these things make me happy. When i am doing acoustic sets a lot of people tell me i make them cry or have goosebumps so i’m guessing people really like me. I have people in-boxing me on Facebook for new music and asking me whats going on and i really love all the support because it means I’m doing something right. Mc’in at Drum n Bass and Garage raves theres always a good reaction from the crowed. The screams give me such a buzz and a lot of people come up afterwards and congratulate me.
PERFORM LIVE, IS IT SOMETHING YOU ENJOY DOING AND WHY? Yes!!! I love performing its great fun and i like to see the reactions from people if they enjoy the music. I perform in different ways either acoustic set singing with the guitar (sometimes piano), live pa basically my backing tracks on the cd and i sing the song or i will mc/host over garage, dnb,dub step,house music at raves, clubs bars. if anyones interested in booking me heres the email scoobapplepuff@hotmail.com ;) . there is a real buzz and adrenalin rush you get from performing or mcing live and its something i really love. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST PROUDEST AND MEMORABLE MOMENT. I am just proud that i have met, worked with or had feed back from a lot of my idols and fave artists. My most memorable moment is performing at Wembley Arena with Choice fm music potential, opening for Devlin, Angel n Wretch 32. It was such a great experience on that stage working in a group performing a song i just remember my bit coming and the whole crowd started screaming. WHAT IMPRESSION DO YOU HOPE TO MAKE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY WITH YOUR MUSIC? I hope to inspire other girls in the music scene, I hope people can take something from my music that will help them and i hope to pave a way for people to learn all they can at every angle of business, producing being and artist ect always be open to learn new things. I hope people accept me for who i am and appreciate my sounds. IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT THE INDUSTRY WHAT WOULD IT BE? I would change illegal downloads, there is a real big debate about this but i think an artist work should be purchased as we put a lot of time, effort and money into it. why not get something back from it? I would also change sex sells into talent sells and would change something to do with record labels how they work and revenue. But i’m not sure how and what i would pacifically change to make things better for the artists/composers at the moment. WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE? This summer you can Expect an Ep full of songs i wrote, produced and recorded myself. the videos will be on youtube, its called Eucalypta Land and will be on ITunes in the next couple on months. i will make a rap/hiphop collab mixtape in the winter, continue to write and perform acoustic music, develop my skills in producing and hopefully start working on some music that can get me in the charts or more recognised. fingers crossed i become successful and all this work i’ve put in goes noticed and appreciated. Also maybe expect some of my own events and of course lots of shows ;) and in the distant future my own record label. FINAL WORDS... Be The Best, Look The Best, Live Your Life With Sparkle, Celebrate, Create, Don’t Be Dull Our Youth Is Blossoming Into A Garden Full Of What You Plant In It. Enjoy, Explore, What Beauty Do You Want To Look Back On? What Colour Are Your Roses? www.youtube.com/ladyvenge www.facebook.com/EucalyptaL.V Twitter-@LzDotVenge Insta- eucalyptalv
YOU HAVE PERFORMED WITH MANY OTHER KNOWN ARTIST AND 79
24/7REMEMBERS RUBIN ‘HURRICANE’ CARTER By Dominique G Leigertwood
(MAY 6, 1937 – APRIL 20, 2014)
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Rubin ‘Hurricane’ Carter (May 6, 1937 – April 20, 2014) was an American middleweight boxer who was wrongly convicted of murder and later freed via a petition of habeas corpus after spending almost 20 years in prison. Carter as a young man escaped from reform school and joined the army, his professional boxing career began in 1961 and ended in 1966. Having won 27 times, with 19 knockouts, and lost 12 times. In 1964 he fought Joey Giardello for the WBC and WBA middleweight titles, but lost on a unanimous points decision. In 1967 he was convicted, alongside John Artis, for three murders at the Lafayette Grill in New Jersey the year before. The murder victims were white; the perpetrators black. Carter and Artis were convicted by an allwhite jury, largely on the testimony of two thieves who later recanted their stories. Carter was jailed until 1985, when his convictions were set aside. In 1975, a year before a second trial confirmed Carter’s conviction – after a brief period of freedom – Bob Dylan released the song Hurricane, detailing the allegedly racial motivations behind the boxer’s imprison-
ment. In 1999, Denzel Washington played Carter in a film of the same name. A number of books also dealt with the case, including Carter’s autobiography, The Sixteenth Round, which attracted Dylan’s attention. In March 2012, while attending the International Justice Conference in Burswood, Western Australia, Carter revealed that he had terminal prostate cancer. At the time, doctors gave him between three and six months to live. John Artis (the friend who also lost two decades of his own life as punishment for refusing to help send Carter to the electric chair) lived with and cared for Carter, and on April 20, 2014, he confirmed that Carter died in his sleep Sunday at his home in Toronto where he had been getting treatments for prostate cancer.
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