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January 2011 issue
#1
Janua
issue
1
ary
e
#1
2011
B
Be. Willis, a ryan Akili B f o d il artist h e brainc nd visual th a r is l to a c u e is ir AkiliV Art D Marketing r, e k a m film ago. from Chic n provide a to g s im a e advertisin azin d g n a a M l re a u u s f expo AkiliVis . The vehicle o g in in filmmakers rce to a d rt n a ts ente is rt u lized reso reneurs, a a p tr e n tr e n c e r to a fo film, and nctions as d n fu a e , in ic z s a u e mag d increas s of art, m n e a c n e c ie n d u ie . reach a their aud emselves th w d ro n g a s d rt n a help FB frie bout their product, a s s awarene
Content Content
Music Corner
Model Shots
Content
Friends
I
Short Stories
Performances
Club Shots
t began as unexpectedly as most occurrences do. A stray thought that brought forth another and another until it’s progeny culminated in this most private of indulgences. She pondered the genesis of this episode, but could only recall the aftermath. As she sits on the big comfortable couch still wearing her linen gift to him, Sunday afternoon sunshine bathes her skin in radiance and exacerbates her sensual inclinations. Her coffee now five minutes colder than it was the last
time she tasted sits beside her. H er breaths remain long and deep as she recomposes herself, and still, the elusive catalyst to this most recent episode escapes her consciousness. With one leg slung across the back of the couch, she again begins to feel the warmth of the sun beating down upon her. The thought, however, the genesis to this all too familiar occurrence continues to dance just outside the grasp of her recovering awareness. She wipes perspiration from her upper lip and the aroma from this most recent happening permeates
her senses nearly sending her spiraling... ...into another incident. Suddenly her eyes snap open, and a satisfied smile comes unbidden to her lips as she realizes what instigated this self-inflicted bliss. She buries her nose into the linen shirt of his she wears when he’s away, and as she inhales deeply she realizes she can’t wait for him to get home.
friends you should know DJ
Markey G was a producer when 808 kickdrums were making the girlies get dumb back in the day and he is banging out stepping-cut after stepping-cut now.
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When did you know you wanted to be in music and when did you realize you were good at what you do?
two records together in his basement, on a Realistic mixer with no cross fader, that’s when i knew I wanted to DJ. I knew i was god when I mix two of the same When I saw Alfee Burts records together to make (R.I.P.) who lived down an effect called a Flange. the street from me blend
What trait s do you possess th you feel w at ill allow yo u to succee and acco d mplish you r goal(s)? The Traits That I Po ssess are persistenc e, great p e rseveranc and I dont e, give up,
What is yo
ur uniquen
ess?
Most DJs S pin Record s, But I can delive r a smooth Vocal Energy to the Crowd
I
Tell me about an embarrassing moment in your career? My most embarrassing, I was booked for an outside venue, and as the party got hype, my speaker caught on fire. I DIDN’T even know, the crowd thought it was staged, until i relized it was on fire and rushed over to put it out. Tell our audience something you’ve learned during your career that a person just starting out in music industry may not know. Be preparerd, plan ahead. As a DJ its very Important To have everthing In place when Its show time.
Which of your previous projects are you most proud of and why? The project Im most proud of is “Keep it Steppin’”. The hit, “I’m the Man” took off, it made me feel unstoppable, that people wanted to hear MY music. What project are you currently working on? Right now I’m in the studio working on a new album. Tell us about a project in your past projects that you feel most connected to and why? “Keep it Steppin”, because it was my introduction into the steppers community here in my hometown Chicago.
Speak on a struggle in your life you have overcome that has strengthened and shaped you as a person? I had an addiction, and overcoming that was the hardest thing I ever had to do. Doing that made me realize i could do anything. What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? The most challenging aspect for me is not being able to do my beats 100% of the time, being that I work a full-time job. Beats are always in my head, and when I’m in the studio I go hard, 100% of the time.
Shameless plug. Cop that new single ”Look at Her“on iTunes”.
Music Video
Play Music Video
friends you should know Harold Dennis Constant Motion
is definitely a phrase to describe Harold Dennis. Fighting through a snowstorm to get to the photo shoot I have to commend this brother for doing what needs to be done to get where he wants to be.
When did you know you wanted to be an actor and when did you realize you were good at what you do? I wanted to be an actor when I was a young child. My father told me stories of my aunt Marian Rolle. She did a one woman show off broadway and over in Europe. She is Ester Rolle’s niece. I did my 1st real play in school in second grade. Beyond that I played at plays in
church and at home with my siblings. Then I got disinterested and got into sports and the trumpet. I didn’t believe that it was possible for someone coming from where I was at the time to be a successful working actor. That thinking was coming from the mind of an uninformed kid. I don’t remember when I realized I was good. It just came upon me.
w
t
omen
ing m arrass
emb ut an o b a e r? Tell m d is caree r u o u rrasse y y o a y b in t m a sa er e ss th ’m ev d. I’d like to d. I posse ed and u e o im y e o ly t are asse o succ traits d The on m not prep en embarr What allow you t l(s)? I’ be ill oa when never e v feel w plish your g ’ve a h g you hat I is my m t in d rson h t e e e acco cc r t a pe . som u e s a h e t h o t c t o r n ee ow ain me die ur car allow it away. I tr rd audition Tell our au not kn o l y il y a w g t m in g ur ive rwa Wha rned d out in actin : sity. I g adults. I fo s who are a o r le e n d e note ut ing nd ge k n t o r a a ie h t a s r t it f s g id y w m in s, k just kes ctin actor tion. I help in films I’m g in a ss that it ta eI s in t u r a a t c a s s cla ight just inform d, get role d that is be uality u are s has said in an over n o o n y q o f A I h g . e I’m to wit ing also Saran rs to becom t to heart. dition und myself d u e a T a m a the n th urro 0 ye 7 to 2 I have take . pt to s 1 m e t t a ss. r 14 mers. succe up on yea perfor g s? comin uenes iq n u s r a eh is you No on y . What e iv r he d e. M ess is t els my driv n e u iq u My un . My story f ss. y r ne my sto nique u y m is drive
Which of your previous projects are you most proud of and why? I’m proud of the film “Pieces Of A Dream”. The comments from around the world have been moving. Example: PIECES OF A DREAM One of the mostcritically acclaimed, powerful independent films of our generation!!! What project are you currently working on? I’m currently working on a handful of films. I am highly favored to have people call me and ask me to be in thier project. Tell us about a character in your past projects that you feel most connected to and why? I don’t feel connected to any character I play. I may know the character and even maybe feel feeling while performing but there’s no need for me to claim that spirit, but, then sometimes I do.
Speak on a struggle in your life you have overcome that has strengthened and shaped you as a person? The struggle of attempting to be a successful well paid actor is an ongoing event. This, more than anything in my whole entire life has shaped me into a powerhouse of strength and fortitude. My not quitting this seemingly impossible journey has created for me a power with in. And my power is real. I draw from the actors of the past. What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? The challenge for me at this point is to keep advancing to greater and greater projects. If acting was not an option for you as your life’s work, what else would it be? If acting was not an option for me, I would walk the earth.
Based on your experience with different directors, from an actor’s perspective, what qualities do the better Directors you’ve worked with have in common? The good directors direct and let the actors act. Shameless plug www.IMDB.com/name/nm1815557 www.myspace.com/99filmsonthewall
Harold Dennis actor
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J
olie
ModelShots
A Native of Cameroon, Jolie’s effervescence is palpable, her accent is beautiful and her smile elicits a reciprocal response almost effortlessly.
When did you know you wanted to be a model and when did you realize you were good at what you do? I’m not sure exactly when I decided than I want a be a model but I know that I love the camera from my early age, I always wanted to be in front of the camera and when my people will give me more and more compliments, I realized that I can make that for living. Few years after doing some photo shoot, seeing the pictures convinced me that I was good at it. What are the traits you possess that you feel will allow you to succeed and accomplish your goal? I think I have the ability to transform myself and act as a different person, I know how to pose to make my pictures bring the best.
What is an embarrassing moment in your career? An embarrassing moment: being in a swimming pool with a white T-shirt!
Tell our audience something you’ve learned during your career that a person just starting out in modeling may not know. I used to think that modeling was the easier job in the world, you just had look good, to wear clothes and pose in front of the camera but nooooo is not, its more complicated than that. I’ve learned that you have to have personality, be able to act, must be comfortable with your body and also need the ability to hold poses for a long time. Modeling is not easy but once you know how to smile with your eyes, it means that you able to act, and play different roles so you can be successful.�
Which of your previous projects are you most proud of and why? Project with Akivisual make me be more confident with my body. What project are you currently working on? Currently I’m not working on any projects. What photo in your past projects do you feel most proud of and why? One of Akivisual photos where I’m wearing a yellow lingerie, I love it because of the contrast with my body. What
struggles in your life have you overcome that has strengthened you as a person? People always judge you, I used to be affect by that but now I learned how to respond and get over it. What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? Taking off my clothes If being a model was not an option for you as your life’s work, what else would it be? Marking Director.
exactly
It took
377 seconds...
a short story by Bryan Akili Willis
It
began as unexpectedly as most occurrences do. A stray thought that brought forth another and another until it’s progeny culminated in this most private of indulgences. She pondered the genesis of this episode, but could only recall the aftermath.
Her coffee now five time she tasted it, s long and deep as elusive catalyst to t consciousness.
As she sits on the big comfortable couch still wearing her linen gift to him, Sunday afternoon sunshine bathes her skin in radiance and exacerbates her sensual inclinations.
With one leg slung again begins to fee down upon her. Th this all too familiar o outside the grasp o She wipes perspira
e minutes colder than it was the last sits beside her. Her breaths remain she recomposes herself, and still, the this most recent episode escapes her
across the back of the couch, she el the warmth of the sun beating he thought, however, the genesis to occurrence continues to dance just of her recovering awareness. ation from her upper lip and the
aroma from this most recent happening permeates her senses nearly sending her spiraling... ...into another incident. Suddenly her eyes snap open, and a satisfied smile comes unbidden to her lips as she realizes what instigated this self-inflicted bliss. She buries her nose into the shirt of his she wears when he’s away, and as she inhales deeply she realizes she can’t wait for him to get home. ď “
J
olie
Model Booking:
jol79@hotmail.com
Advertise
your ads wil
e with us
ll go here.
Are you our next featured model?
Akili Visual is casting for models to appear in our “Model Shots� feature. If you are a working model or an aspiring model, or just look damn good, this is your shot to be featured in our magazine. For consideration please click here or go to our website akilivisual,com
Asili Beauty Buzz Combat dry skin this winter with Asili’s Almond Body Oil and Asili Almond Body Butter Tip: After you’ve showered, apply Asili’s Almond Body Oil to damp skin and blot with a dry towel. After you get out of the shower, apply Asili’s Almond Body Butter and your skin will be smooth and supple. In addition, the layering of the body oil and body butter should leave your skin moisturized throughout the entire day. Good Luck! Inbox pamela@asilibodyproducts.com if you’re interested. Peace! Pamela M. Willis, Owner http://www.asilibodyproducts.com
P
Performances unspoken speaks his mind
When did you know you wanted to be a poet and when did you realize you were good at what you do? At 15, is when I knew I wanted to be a poet. I have always been a very expressive person and writing poetry became my outlet. I became whoever I wanted
to be in my poems. I didn’t really realize that I was good at spoken word until I was 25 and I was speaking at a church function and when I was done, a old lady came to me, cried, gave me a hug and told me that I saved her with my words. That’s when I knew that my words could touch someone.
What are the traits you possess that you feel will allow you to succeed and accomplish your goal? I’m very outgoing and very openminded. I am a great listener and looking always to learn something new. Being spontaneous always helps.
What is an embarrassing moment in your career? An embarrassing moment is when I was asked to do a show for a couple that just gotten married and I forgot their name during the performance and called them another name.
Tell our audience something you’ve learned during your career that a person just starting out in poetry/spoken word may not know. Write, Write, Write, and when you are done writing, practice, practice, and practice some more. Believe in yourself. Find your own identity and don’t allow anyone to find it for you. Be consistent and true to what you are speaking on. Do your research and keep it simple. People will understand you more if you can keep it simple and entertaining with some substance.
Which of your previous projects are you most proud of and why? I published a book a few years ago called UnSpoKen Words is one of my greatest accomplishments. This book is dedicated to my daughter “Jade”. She has inspired me so much that she really doesn’t know. She had taught me the true meaning of being a father.
What project are you currently working on? I’m currently working on my 2nd spoken word video with ‘Akil Visual”. The energy and subject matter are truly going to be awesome. I had the pleasure of working with him before and the outcome only inspires me more and to do more. I’m also working on my 2nd book which should be out this summer. What poem in your past projects do you feel most connected to and why? I did a poem called “Jade”. This poem is talking about the birth of my daughter name “Jade”. I talk about my promises and how I am going to always be there for her. My daughter is my 1st and last breath! She is the reason why I exist. What struggles in your life have you overcome that has strengthened you as a person? The death of my grandmother has strengthened me as a person. She was a true fighter. A true mother. A true grandmother. This is a woman that didn’t have anything but was willing to give you something. She made things happen when all the
chips are down. She is and will always be my strength. She is looking down on me and pushing me when I’m lost! What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? Continuing to write and recite poems that will ignite thought. Always be able to touch people on various aspects from but not limited to life, relationships, political, community, and religious. If being a poet was not an option for you as your life’s work, what else would it be? A writer. Shameless plug I would like to give thanks to “GOD” for giving me this gift of spoken word. I would like to say thank you to Bryan Willis for this opportunity. Most importantly, I co-host the longest running poetry sets in Chicago, Earcandy, 1012 w. Randolph, every 4th Saturday of the month, and also you can catch me every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, P.O.E.T., 10338 S. Western. For more info: 708-829-5107
unspoken
Global Premiere Play Performance Video
“Inspiration”
wants to shoot a Performance video of
YOU!
We are looking for spoken word artists, vocalists and emcees to feature in our next issue. The dynamic performers we choose will receive a AkiliVisual-style performance video, a feature in AkiliVisual Magazine with Akili-style photo shoot and all the exposure we can give you…and that’s quite a bit. You’re here aren’t you...J If you’re interested send an email with your:
- Bio - Facebook Page Name - Pictures: if the ones on your Facebook page aren’t sufficient
To performers@AkiliVisual.com
Pe
erformances
When did you know you wanted to be a poet and when did you realize you were good at what you do? In August of 2007, I decided that writing a book of poetry,The Confessional Heart of a Man, was the thing for me to do. I have always thought that I was adept at writing and believe God gave me the green light to go all in now.
What are the traits you possess that you feel will allow you to succeed and accomplish your goal? I have never ending faith in the Father that I will win, especially this year. Similarly, my belief in myself and my abilities is unequivocal.
What is an embarrassing moment in your career? I went to perform at the Checkerboard in march of last year after coming from out of town. I had been on a bit of a roll, but was performing my poetry, and a woman yelled,�Get your ass off the stage!� Yeah.
Which of your previous projects are you most proud of and why? I am very proud of my first book, The Confessional Heart of a Man, both with its sales and critical acclaim. You have to understand that I wrote that book while incarcerated, so it wasn’t under optimum circumstances. But my new book, The Book of 24 Orgasms, is my “Red 13”, meaning I am banking my early career on this one. I wrote, rewrote, edited, reedited, promoted, promoting, and branding it myself. So I’m pleased and proud of my effort and hope the results reflect that.
What project are you currently working on? The Book of 24 Orgasms is my current project. Okay, that’s not true. I’m working on a Spanish version of The Confessional Heart of a Man and the follow-up to The Book of 24 Orgasms, The Next 24:The Land of Multiples. What poem in your past projects do you feel most connected to and why? Locked Up is a poem that I am connected to because I lived that, so there are no lies or embellishment
G.P.A.
What struggles in your life have you overcome that has strengthened you as a person?
to that genre, but my style of writing and performing lend more to the traditional concept of poetry. So a lot of times, I am not afforded similar opportunities
Basically, just having been incarcerated was both a hindrance obviously, but a blessing as well. If I If being a poet was not an option for hadn’t been locked up, I wouldn’t you as your life’s work, what else would have had time nor focus to actually it be? Truthfully, write my first book. I don’t know anything else. What is the most challenging aspect Shameless plug of what you do? The most challenging thing about being a poet is that our society is infatuated with the more mainstream form of spoken word. And that is not a slight
Go to www.iblowyourmind.com and purchase The Confessional Heart of a Man, The Chocolate Rose, and soon, The Book of 24 Orgasms.
Global
Premiere
“120 before midnight” Play Performance Video
“Clean Slate”
a Deep House mix by Bryan Akili Willis
MusicCorner
Play Mix
(click play to listen) (right-click to download)
NOTE: Headphones are recommended to hear the subtle EQ movements and throbbing baselines
ModelShots From Georgia to Chicago, southern ideals and cooking skills with Chi-town swagger comes Conquita, putting it down.
When did you know you wanted to be a model and when did you realize you were good at what you do? At the age of 12. What are the traits you possess that you feel will allow you to succeed and accomplish your goal? My leg poses, because I have legs to die for. What is an embarrassing moment in your career? Hair was not done but the shoot turned out great, yeah I always keep it professional
Tell your us some th c out may areer th ing you a ’ not Nev know t a you ve learn e n r e goin gm . ode d during g to go on a l just mee s start t it. hoot alo ing ne if you Wha don t kno t pro ww ject here are you or w curre ho y Bod ou ntly y pa w orkin it jus int and g on j t no ? t ab ust the o out u to the high f box sh o fash ion s ot, bec ause hoo t time
What photo in your past projects do you feel most proud of and why? The shoot that got me known oversees.
What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? You always have to look like you ready for a photo shoot...
If being a model was n an option for you as you what else would it be? A designer
not ur life’s work,
hustlin’ a short story by Bryan Akili Willis
E
very nuance of movement has been perfectly orchestrated to achieve the desired effect, at the desired time. A gentle stroke here, a simultaneous caress, there. Manipulating every sensation, manipulating every thought, she is an artist. From the moment she walked into the dimly lit room, she was in control. The sound of her heels upon the floor commanded attention and the sway of her hips captured it, she knew it, and she enjoyed the
power that a simple walk could wield. She noticed the snow gathered on the window sill, then smiled to herself for not realizing it was snowing on her short cab ride over. Perhaps sentimental thoughts of the impending encounter had her more engrossed than she realized, or perhaps it was the purple haze inflicted upon her by private indulgences with her most passionate lover, Mary J. She turned, and struck the pose she perfected this afternoon just for him. Slowly she let the fur coat he bought, drop to the floor. Her skin is flawless. Accented only by the pearl chain bought for her by her previous friend, and the stiletto’s exchanged with her most intimate friend before that, she knew, by his gaze, just with this image alone her coat was paid for. She could leave now without giving much more. But she doesn’t. And she pretends to her true self that she doesn’t know why. As he walked towards her, she dropped to both knees and before she looked up, she wondered, who’s really doin’ the hustlin’?
Q
con
uita
Model Booking Info ivygurl0410@yahoo.com
Debauchery Ball
the annual birthday party of the one and only Discopoet Khari B. had DJ Big Will banging classic disco cuts and rockin’ the crowd.
ClubShots
g i B J D Will Click HERE to go to his podcast page
B
Be. I humbly share my vision with you. This first issue is a starting point, a foundation from which to grow better, bolder, and more creative.
Thanks and Blessings to ALL who participated and morally suported me though this long, Long, LONG and wonderful process. I will never forget it...
Janua
issue
ary
e
#1
2011