TEXAS EDITION
AMPS MAGAZINE American Minority People Succeeding
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MANDY REMEMBERING
RED
CHINA DOLL Volume 5, Issue 2
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VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2
the AMPS Texas Team Publisher Connie Morgan Contributing Writers Gerald Wright Photographers Aldo Contreras Editors Connie Morgan Graphic Design One Wright Company, LLC Logistics Gerald Wright Cover photo by: AMPS CORP.
What’s Inside... Mandy Musical Journey”........... 8 Twisted Creations Car Show 2024.................................. 11 Jimmy Spivey ............................ 12 Remembering China Doll....... 15 Kevin Hendricks....................... 17 Annual Corey Borner’s Day.... 18 Steve Russell.............................. 20 Terry Charleston ll .................. 21 Cover Photo by Aldo Contreras
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AMPS Texas is a franchise of AMPS Magazine, a national publication, with headquarters in Orlando, Florida. This magazine is published regularly. AMPS MAGAZINE CORPORATE Orlando, Florida 33837 317-426-7790
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A WORD FROM THE CEO Thanks for picking up AMPS Magazine, Texas Edition. I wanted to thank each and every one of you for reading this magazine and making it one of the fastest growing magazines in the south for 2022. We are touching the lives of people who we did not even know we would and inspire even a culture that we were unaware. This publication is called A.M.P.S. (American Minority People Succeeding) for a reason. It is where Substance and Style meets Supreme Standards. Our mission is “superior application development through dedicated professionalism while maintaining a customer-centered focus to lead the industry in ideas and creative solutions”. Our event marketing and promotions department is designed to present positive entertainment and events that the Dallas communities deserve. We specialize in helping brands create a unique connection with consumers at our events as well as create an opportunity for you to meet other business owners, executives, present and future customers, and other socialites. Simply put, “We are Accomplished By Making You Successful.” Gerald D. Wright CEO Page 4
from the publisher I would like to start by saying thank you for your support. Taking over a publication wasn’t easy, but it is very rewarding. I took over this publication in May 2009 and it changed my life. As we embrace 2024, we are ready for the many changes that comes along with growing a magazine that is dedicated to the communities in Texas. Our passion for reporting the news about the communities in and around Texas is the heartbeat of AMPS Texas Magazine. We strive to tell stories about the heroes in our community and with that, we know the importance of building alliances with individuals who can help us continue to grow. You too can contribute to our growth and development by bringing articles about our community. For more information about advertising with AMPS Texas Magazine, please reach out to me at connie@ampsmagazine.com or call (214) 937-9041. We have amazing advertising opportunities to help you grow your business and support the community. You can also subscribe to AMPS Texas Magazine and get a copy delivered directly to your door. Thank you for your continued support. Connie Morgan
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Mandy Red’s Musical Journey”
COVER STORY
Mandy Red, a burgeoning luminary within the music cosmos, hails from the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, her narrative interwoven with the harmonies that permeated her upbringing as the fourth among five siblings. A childhood steeped in a symphony of melodies, meticulously curated by her music-loving father, introduced Mandy and her siblings to a kaleidoscope of sonic landscapes— from the resonant rhythms of Paulina Rubio to the soulful ballads of the Bee Gees. Her love affair with singing burgeoned in the embrace of Selena, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, their commanding vocals guiding constellations through her musical odyssey—hours of devoted practice, emulating their runs and vocal acrobatics, sculpted Mandy’s distinctive vocal prowess. Venturing onto local stages and talent arenas, Mandy wielded her passion for music as a beacon, swiftly amassing a fervent hometown following. Her magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent garnered the attention of industry gatekeepers, propelling her to craft her record label. Emerged as a trailblazer poised to redefine musical paradigms, Mandy orchestrates a symphony woven from the tapestry of R&B, pop cadences, and traditional Latin rhythms—a tribute to the diverse musical heritage that shaped her genesis. Presently ensconced within studio confines, she meticulously sculpts her debut album while laying the groundwork for imminent tours, an ascendancy that promises to ripple across the industry’s landscape. In a candid exchange with AMPS magazine, Mandy unveils the inspirations behind her latest sonic offerings—“Do Me,” a poignant love ballad released on Valentine’s Day 2023, and “High on Your Kisses,” an intimate bilingual R&B opus that serenades in both English and Spanish. Each composition, she reveals, serves as a canvas for her personal experiences, weaving narratives imbued with authentic emotions and heartfelt stories. Reflecting on her earlier trepidations about performing before sizable audiences, Mandy acknowledges a transformed mindset, forged through introspection and grounding exercises. Despite lingering nerves, she embraces the stage, fortified by calming rituals and prayers, navigating the limelight with a newfound sense of joy and purpose. Recalling a poignant performance at a comedy show in Oak Cliff, Texas, Mandy shares the emotional turmoil preceding the event, having recently mourned the loss of a close friend and dance collaborator. Wrestling with the impulse to withdraw, her friend’s enduring spirit spurred her onward, transforming what could have been her toughest performance into a poignant tribute.
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Paving the road ahead, Mandy tantalizes with glimpses into her upcoming musical ventures—teasing forthcoming music videos to accompany her recent singles and hinting at an EP comprising the existing trio alongside two fresh compositions, expanding the musical horizon for her audience.
Eager to transcend artistic boundaries, She outlines her quest for a multifaceted musical identity, diverging across genres from pop to R&B, embellishing her compositions with intricate guitar melodies. Her creative ethos embraces the belief that music transcends confinement within categorical lines, advocating for an unrestricted musical language. Amidst her musical expedition, Mandy introduces an unconventional venture—Mandy Red Beauty—a lip gloss line tailored for women who share her penchant for minimalistic adornments, an ode to her love for simplicity and elegance. Rooted in an ethos of multifaceted individuality, Mandy’s narrative resounds as an anthem to the myriad facets of identity, her artistic journey a testament to sincerity and an unyielding commitment to embracing the kaleidoscope of her being. As her melodic tapestry continues to unfurl, Mandy beckons her audience to traverse the diverse landscapes of her artistry, promising a harmonious mosaic yet to unfold. Follow Mandy Red on her resplendent journey at https://www.mandyred.com
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Twisted Creations Lowrider Bike and Car Show 2024
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Jimmy Spivey Jimmy Spivey, born and raised in the small town of Huntsville, Texas, is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Coming from a large family with twenty-three siblings, including another set of twins, Jimmy’s upbringing was filled with the vibrancy and challenges of a bustling household. His mother had eleven boys and twelve girls, creating a dynamic environment that shaped Jimmy’s character and work ethic. Despite the demands of his large family, Jimmy managed to carve out his path, balancing his career in construction with a deep-seated love for gospel music.
tention or financial gain. His family plays a crucial role in his ventures; all his staff members are relatives who share his passion. This familial involvement ensures a supportive and committed team, aligning with Jimmy’s philosophy of working with people who are genuinely invested in the mission.
When asked about his childhood in Huntsville, Jimmy chuckled and mentioned that there wouldn’t be enough tape to record the entirety of his experiences. He shared that his father was a construction worker, a profession Jimmy followed into, eventually starting his own construction business. Alongside his construction career, Jimmy’s passion for gospel music flourished. He not only sang but also loved bringing singers together, a pursuit that eventually led him to become a promoter.
Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas has become the primary venue for Jimmy’s events, stemming from a long-standing and comfortable relationship. He appreciates the bond he has formed with the church and the convenience it offers. Jimmy’s innovative approach includes unique events such as an all-female gospel concert, inspired by the rarity of such lineups in the industry. This event, featuring artists like Tamela Mann and Vickie Winans, was a massive success, even leading to a scenario where the venue was filled, and some attendees had to be turned away.
The inception of J. Spivey’s Production came about during a casual conversation with his brothers while driving to an event in Los Angeles. Faced with the growing demands of his construction business, Jimmy contemplated stepping back from singing. His brothers suggested he consider promoting gospel events, and the name “J. Spivey Production” emerged organically from that discussion. The name resonated with Jimmy, and it became the foundation of his promotional endeavors. Despite joking that his singing voice is now reserved for the shower, Jimmy has made a significant impact as a gospel music promoter. Known for his sold-out shows, Jimmy takes immense pride in the success of his events, which he meticulously organizes himself without a dedicated staff. His passion for gospel music drives him to select groups he genuinely loves and to manage all the logistics personally. Jimmy acknowledges that this is a gift from God, and he plans to continue promoting it for as long as possible. Over the past eleven years, Jimmy has promoted gospel concerts in various cities, including Waco, Longview, and Lake Charles. Currently, he focuses on Dallas and Houston, holding events on the second weekends of April and September. He explains that he chose these months to avoid clashing with other major events and to capitalize on the pleasant weather of spring and fall. Jimmy’s consistency in scheduling has built a loyal following that eagerly anticipates his concerts. Jimmy’s events are characterized by their growing popularity, a fact he attributes to his dedication rather than a desire for at-
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Jimmy’s ability to curate memorable events is guided by a blend of intuition and divine inspiration. He often wakes up with a clear vision of the artists he wants to feature as if someone is guiding him in his sleep. His advice to aspiring promoters emphasizes the importance of passion and resilience, warning that not every event will be a sell-out and that disappointment is part of the journey. Taking care of the team and maintaining a genuine love for the work are crucial components of success. Recalling an event where unforeseen circumstances prevented the featured group, Lee Williams and the Mighty Clouds, from attending due to a family tragedy, Jimmy highlighted the unpredictable nature of the business. Despite such challenges, his commitment to his craft remains unwavering. Jimmy Spivey’s journey from a small-town boy in Huntsville to a respected gospel music promoter and successful construction business owner is a story of faith, family, and fervor. His contributions to the gospel music scene and his community reflect a life dedicated to following one’s passions and uplifting others. For more about Jimmy and his upcoming events, you can follow him on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Follow Jimmy Spivey on: Twitter: www.twitter.com/jimmyspivey2 Instagram: www.instagram.com/jimmyspivey Facebook: www.facebook.com/jimmyspivey
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Remembering China Doll In memory of Denise Williams better known as “China Doll”. She was a daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and devoted friend. She was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and at a young age, she moved to Philadelphia. China moved to Indy in the late 90’s. China was very talented. She was a comedian, actress, motivational speaker, radio host, and youth activist. China was born on June 1, 1961, and departed on August 19, 2024. China was on BET’s Comic View she also traveled overseas she traveled to places like Korea to entertain our United States Military. She also traveled to Japan, Germany, Hawaii, and Amsterdam. She was the CEO and creator of “THE REAL” IS REAL and was on three radio stations, along with her co-host Ros White who stayed on the backside. But in January of this year 2024, China announced that she was exclusively only going to be on AMPS RADIO. China interviewed people in the community like upcoming artists and people who were trying to make a difference in their community. She also interviewed celebrities like “FREEWAY Rick Ross,” PAPA Snoop”, J. Anthoney Brown, Rodney Perry, and Mike Epps. In 2011, China went on the road and did a city-to-city tour called The Real Entertainers or Losers, allowing local artists to show their talent. Jackie Parker traveled with China on this tour. They traveled to places like New York, Philadelphia, and Dallas, Texas to name a few. While in Dallas China found out that her friend and Comedian Rodney Perry was in town for a show. She reached out to him and asked if he could come out and talk to the kids and of course, he said yes. China loved the kids and did all she could to give back. Every year on Christmas Day she served dinner at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center. As we bid farewell to China, our heartfelt condolences extend to her grieving family, friends, and fans. We miss you China and you will forever be in our hearts.
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Kevin Hendricks AMPS recently sat down with Kevin, the creative mind behind the beloved characters Mr. George, Aunt Flow, and Uncle Abe, to delve into his journey as an actor and comedian. Despite his impressive ability to bring these characters to life, Kevin revealed that he never took any formal acting classes. When asked about the inspiration for his character Mr. George, Kevin fondly recalled his uncle, George Wallas Sr., who was the cornerstone of many joyful weekends during his childhood. “I went to his house every weekend and couldn’t wait because I knew I was about to laugh a lot. He was so funny,” Kevin shared. This uncle’s humor and spirit served as the foundation for Mr. George’s character, a testament to how personal experiences can shape creative expression. In addition to Mr. George, Kevin portrays two other characters— Aunt Flow and Uncle Abe. Each character is distinct, embodying unique traits that resonate with audiences. When asked about what inspired these characters, Kevin’s passion for storytelling shone through, though he didn’t dive deeply into the specifics of their inspirations. However, his dedication to these characters is undeniable. “I’ve been working on these characters for five years. But I’ve been going hard with it for the last couple of years,” Kevin explained. His hard work has paid off, earning him recognition as the top creator on Facebook about ten times. He also recently received a notification from TikTok, indicating that his videos are charting higher than those of well-known comedian Kountry Wayne, with his TikTok engagement at sixty percent compared to Wayne’s twenty percent. Humbly, Kevin credited his success to divine intervention, saying, “I want to thank God for that.”
to take away from his skits: pure, unadulterated joy. “I want my fans to enjoy the three characters I’m blessed to play and laugh all day,” he said. His ambitions don’t stop at skits, though. Kevin has his sights set on bigger projects, including stage plays and an upcoming movie. He expressed a desire to participate in the prestigious film festival in Los Angeles, with plans already in motion for a project that includes his partner China Doll. Additionally, Kevin is working on “Mr. George’s Courtroom Drama,” a concept he hopes to pitch to networks like Tubi. As Kevin continues to build on the legacy he and China started, his future in entertainment looks bright, with audiences eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his career.
Kevin also took a moment to honor his late partner, Denise “China Doll” Williams, who played a crucial role in the development of his characters. “RIP to my partner China Doll who helped me improve these characters,” he said. Their partnership began a few years ago on a movie set, where they quickly bonded and formed a close friendship. Reflecting on their collaboration, Kevin expressed his gratitude for having had China in his life, acknowledging the rarity of finding a true friend in the entertainment industry. “I was happy and grateful that God allowed her to come into my life. Friends are hard to come by, and she was that friend,” Kevin remarked. He emphasized China’s legendary status, noting that landing a spot on Comic View is a significant achievement that underscores her talent and influence. Her support and belief in his work had a profound impact on Kevin. “When someone like China tells you that you are good, it blew me away,” he said, recounting how her humility kept her accolades hidden for months into their friendship. Kevin sees their meeting as nothing short of divine intervention, a blessing that helped him further develop his character. Looking forward, Kevin is clear about what he wants his fans
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3rd Annual Corey Borner’s Day
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ou Y . y e is K e c n an f e d e fi n o n ber “Co m u n ur .” are yo supporter and
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Steve Russell Steven Russell Harts, renowned as the lead singer of the R&B group Troop, hails from Alfred, Connecticut, and spent his formative years in California. Beyond his exceptional vocal talent, Steven showcased his versatility in sports during his school years, excelling in baseball and football. From playing multiple positions in baseball, including catcher, third, and first base, to assuming the role of a right cornerback in football during high school, Steven demonstrated prowess both on the field and on stage. In a candid interview, Steven reflected on his musical journey, tracing his childhood influenced by his mother’s love for music. It wasn’t until his elementary and junior high school years, when he serenaded girls over the phone, that Steven realized his innate gift for singing. This realization, coupled with his passion for music inherited from his mother, laid the foundation for his future career as a vocalist. Steven’s ascent to becoming the lead singer of Troop was serendipitous, stemming from an invitation by Rodney, a fellow musician, to join a singing group initially known as Five of a Kind. Recognizing Steven’s popularity and talent within the Pasadena music scene, Rodney sought his collaboration, eventually leading to the formation of Troop in 1988. Despite the youthfulness of the group members, their shared aspirations and camaraderie fueled their journey towards musical success. Acknowledging the dedication and hard work required in preparing for performances, Steven emphasized the group’s commitment to delivering captivating performances akin to their inspirations, such as New Edition. Balancing singing with intricate choreography became second nature to Troop, albeit demanding, reflecting their determination to excel as a performing group. Reflecting on Troop’s repertoire, Steven singled out “All I Do Is Think of You” as a personal favorite, cherished long before the group’s rise to fame. Recalling the thrill and nervousness of performing in front of large crowds, Steven described the experience as both exhilarating and daunting, akin to a nerve-wracking yet addictive adrenaline rush. Amidst Troop’s illustrious
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Terry Charleston ll Terry Charleston II, a native of Dallas, Texas, has been a figure of inspiration and success, with AMPS Magazine Texas chronicling his journey since he graduated high school. His story is one of determination, achievement, and relentless pursuit of goals. After graduating high school in 2011, Terry earned a full-ride scholarship to the University of North Texas, where he studied from 2011 to 2016. Remarkably, he graduated with dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice. His commitment to service saw him enlist in the National Guard in 2013, where he served until 2016. In the same year, he was commissioned as an officer and undertook an active-duty assignment before transitioning to the reserves in 2020, where he continues to serve. Terry attributes his inspiration to join the reserves to his grandfather, a Vietnam veteran, who has been a significant influence in his life. Seeking structure and leadership development, Terry followed in his grandfather’s footsteps, shaping his professional path from a young age. In 2022, Terry ventured into entrepreneurship by founding his own freight company, starting with one truck and expanding to five, delivering road hotshots nationwide. He cites the high demand for freight transportation and his father’s three decades of experience in the field as pivotal influences in his decision. Armed with a master’s degree in business administration, Terry saw an opportunity to explore entrepreneurship. His message to the younger generation is one of encouragement: to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them while setting tangible, achievable goals. He emphasizes the unique opportunities available today, including government funding, banking support, and business loans and grants for small businesses. Looking ahead, Terry aims to delve into government contracting with the Department of the Army and plans to pursue a doctorate within the next year. His drive to explore new avenues and continuously grow is commendable. AMPS Magazine Texas is immensely proud of Terry Charleston II, celebrating his accomplishments and the goals he has surpassed. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish him continued success in his future endeavors.
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American Minority People Succeeding