Street Consequences magazine Baltimore Edition by ayisha25star

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH Street Consequences had the opportunity the sit down with the Mr. Biggs for an exclusive interview.

SC: What part of Baltimore did you grow up in? GS: I grew up in different parts of Baltimore City. One of the parts I grew up in was Northwest Baltimore with my grandmother. The second place was West Baltimore with my mother and we also lived in Baltimore County as well.

SC: Did you have any siblings growing up? GS: No. I was the only child that my mom had I'm pretty much my grandmother raised me along with my mother. I had no father around so I pretty much raised myself until manhood. SC: Baltimore has a rich history of high-profile drug dealers. Are there any Hustlers with whom you remember that gave you inspiration to sell drugs? GS: There was one Hustler that I remember when I was young, around 9 years old his name was wimpy. He was most definitely a certified big boy in the game. I remember coming through Druid Hill Park with my mother on a Saturday or Sunday and saw him with all that glitter he had on. I was so young that I didn’t know that glitter was diamond. SC: What do you remember the most about Wimpy? GS: That day when I was like 9 years old, that day he had a car with one wing up. If I’m not mistaking the car was a Delorean. That guy always resonated with me when I thought about getting money back in the day. SC: Was it Wimpy who had influenced you to get in the game? That guy Wimpy didn’t really influence me when I was a kid because I’ve always made my own decision in getting to the bag. I have helped and been an influence on others. SC: Baltimore has a very high crime rate what do you believe was the reason for such acts of extreme violence? GS: Well Baltimore have a very enormous crime wave and it’s basically because it’s no great leaders and thinkers out there. It’s like the blind leading the blind and it’s the same way in prison. SC: Was there any violent interferences during his reign as one of the city’s top hustlers? GS: I pretty much stayed to myself and minded my own business plus I stayed gone a lot and wasn’t never really in Baltimore. I don’t indulge with a lot of people I don’t know. but as they say it, it will be the closest one to you that will hate on you and breed envy in their hearts for apparent reason.

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH SC: Did you have any aspirations when you entered the game or in your hustling career? GS: I never had any aspirations in making it big in the game because I have always been the type of guy to let things grow and become organically. I’ve always been a huge thinker and that’s with anything I do, I do it big. I have a compulsion with certain things in life and how I buy things and move so I would incorporate that in having aspirations. SC: What was your mind state when you was released from your last prison sentence? GS: My mind state was getting to the bag and I was super hungry. When certain guys use to come and visit me I used to ask them all kinds of questions in dealing with the street but they use to think I was crazy or tell me it wasn’t like the way I was thinking in society but I proved them wrong. SC: So your had deferred mind states? Did you GS: I already knew their mind set wasn’t like minds and the average and the average person isn’t. SC: Did you know that you was going to make it big as you had become in the drug game? GS: To tell you the truth I didn’t know I was going to be as big as the media portrayed me to be but I can recall I used tell a certain person that was around me that I was just a little ole big guy from Baltimore city. SC: Did you have any hurdles on your way to the top? GS: I never had any hurdles reaching the top. Getting to the bag was easy, it’s nothing hard about it if you can think. But for some people it’s hard because they let a lot of things bother them. I’m a laid back no nonsense type of guy. I really don’t let nothing bother me and I have lost more money in my life then guys could imagine. SC: Where did the name Mr. Biggz come from? GS: The name Mr. Big's came from the prosecutor and I guess from the amount of money I have spent, the trips I took, because I bought it from some of my assets as the federal government seized. The prosecutor thought that the name is too big to fit in me. SC How long would you describe your run in the game? GS: I had a long run in the hustling game not the sound hypocritical but from the grace of Allah and me being the man I am because I'm not really a sociable type of person and I stay to myself a lot so if you are real good associate of mom's boyfriend then I stay clear of a lot of people unless they were in my fold. I did a lot of things but not to be a show-off like a lot of people will be in the game. They want Hood Fame and all that but to me it was bigger than that even though we be on the same playing field to a degree but I just moved.

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH SC: What were some of the things you had accumulated in the streets? GS: Some of the things I accumulated over my years hustling was a lot of money, property and land in various cities in parts of the world. Of course I had humongous amounts of materialistic things for as cars, clothes and jewelry but I love to collect rare time pieces. SC: What were some of the places you had traveled in the world? And the perks you have received? GS: I've traveled a lot of places in my life and I have been to quite a few continents and countries, I've been to Africa the motherland in which was a wonderful place to go and see our people as well as the Safari, I've been to Dubai and Abu Dhabi and which is in the Middle East and by me being Muslim it was a blessing from my law. I've been to Hawaii quite a few times, I've been to Aruba, Jamaica, St Thomas, Europe, Italy, China, Down Under, the Neverland and so forth and so forth. Some of the perks I received from traveling with meeting different people from different walks of life and I was able to secure some good business deals as well and dealing with real estate and importing and export. SC: How many people get the word Brotherhood and loyalty confused what is your take on brotherhood as well as loyalty? GS: My take on brotherhood is loyalty and loyalty is not just a word is a lifestyle. Bonds that's unbreakable because you can never have Frenemies and not know it because men tend to Harbor hate for no apparent reason but I was reading J Prince member and I have a great deal of respect for the brother. SC: What were some of the events that contributed to your downfall? GS: Some of the events that contributed to my downfall was putting myself on the line when I didn't have to, but that's the loyalty in me. People were doing things behind my back that I didn't know and they cost me. SC: What were the charges that the federal government charged you with? GS: The charge I was charged with in federal court was 5 kilograms or more of powder cocaine in which carry a mandatory ten year sentence. I took a plea of 21 to 25 years and at my sentencing the judge gave me the high end (25 years). SC: What are some of the things that the IRS seized during your arrest? GS: The IRS seized close to ten million dollars’ worth of stuff from me. They seized over three million dollars in cash and over two million dollars in jewelry, 19 cars, 5 properties, and land in different states. A million dollars’ worth of investments and several other things such as bank accounts, stocks and bonds, mutual funds and annuities.

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH SC: Did you have any co-defendants on your case? GS: I had three co-defendants on the case. My brother from another mother Antonio “Big Mu” Johnson plead out t0 13 years and the defector Michael Lee White aka Skip from Grape Street was one of my co-defendants who had cooperated and got no time and another one of my co-defendants named Marc Collin aka M.C. Cooperated and did 4 years. Both of them guys are home now. SC: Anyone else co-operated against you? GS: Yes. Clarence Hadnot aka Little Mu from Houston, Texas, The truck driver that was involved, and Melissa Maria Blakesley AKA Mel from Chicago also cooperated. SC: What is your take on betrayal and rats? GS: Well my take on betrayal and rats run hand and hand but in the streets you will definitely reap what you sow. A lot of people want to live the life but when the wrath comes down they get weak and feel as though they have to side with the government but like they say pressure bust pipes. Betrayal is the same thing as being a rat and you know I’m not the type to talk a lot or any of that but some people just think for the moment and don’t think the whole thing through. A lot of people are puppets and they will let people influence them to destroy themselves for the lack of acceptance but in actuality them people mentally manipulate them are cowards themselves and use them as puppets. SC: If you could change anything in the world what would it be and why? GS: Well if I could change anything it would be the laws that the government creates. I understand that us as citizens have to pay a penalty for breaking the law with the time that the government and state gives us is corrupt in erroneous. As you see they just passed the Reform Bill for the federal judicial system and I'm glad looked at because it will help a lot of good men and women get out of prison. SC: Is there anyone in particular with whom you would tip your hat to? GS: I want to tip my hat to Kim Kardashian West for all she do as a woman. I respect her mind and her moves for sure. She is truly using her platform to help people that have been taken advantage of by these erroneous corrupt federal laws and with the platform she has she is most definitely getting a lot of things done. SC: There are many other celebrities who can use their platform to make a change do you agree?

Q&A with GARNETT â&#x20AC;&#x153;MR. BIGGZâ&#x20AC;? SMITH GS: We need more celebrities to step up to the plate as well as athletes, business women and men. The picture is much bigger than us that's incarcerated and I have a great deal of respect for the people whom have supported the struggle as mentioned, Kim Kardashian West, her husband Kanye West, Russell Simmons, in to Topeka Sam's It's a lot of other celebrities who can do the same thing but they let the president that is in the Oval Office get into a way but to me that's being selfish because it's bigger than that when you dealing with the end violence laws that were created to lock the one already up and help keep us incar-

cerated. The minority far as the African American and Spanish men and women are the ones who are truly suffering through this whole ordeal. What type of effect does incarceration have on you? GS: Well being incarcerated really doesn't have any effect on me but it do take a strongminded man with will and determination to get through this type of ordeal. You don't find stand-up, great, strong, focused, motivated men that was in my position get this type of time and not fold. A lot of them guys out there be cheating and what I mean by that is they work with the government and some kind of way to avoid, here straight up and I'm just being truthful about the situation. I'm The Last of a Dying Breed. Some Guys can't handle their situation so they want to make stories up about good men and try to sabotage their character and Legacy, but it does not work because when you are a man of caliber and your character is 1,000 then it's nothing that can penetrate that and it usually reflects back to them in one way or another. Now it does affect my family kids because I'm not there physically to help them with their life and all aspects that life has to offer. And young men or lady needs their mom and dad to help me raise them and show them right from wrong. The kids need that mental support from when they are children until they are able to be set free into soci-

ety so I being in prison effect the kids the most out of everybody. SC: What do you say to those in your city who may immortalize or idolize you or the things you had in the streets? GS: I may be immortalized or idolized as one of the best that ever did it coming from out of Baltimore City, but one thing for sure and two for certain I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look for no accolades for anything I had done because of the negativity that surrounds the lifestyle I lived but when I was in society I always been a self-preserved laid back type of guy and I never wanted any hood fame or any of that because it brings about another type of response from the law.

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH Street Consequences would like to say thank you for allowing us to interview you. Do you want to acknowledge anyone ? FIRST AND FOREMOST WANT TO GIVE ALL PRAISES AND THANKS TO ALLAH (SWT). I WANT TO THANK MY MOM AND KIDS FOR THEIR UNDYING SUPPORT AND GENUINE LOVE DURING THESE TUMULTUOUS TIMES AND STRUGGLES. I WANT TO SALUTE MY TOP SOLDIERS AND SOLDIERETTES DURING THE STRUGGLE: JAY (Lil bro) & my sis MARISA, DREAD (ROGER), K DOG & sis his wife ANGELIQUE, BIG MUJAHID, MICHELLE LEWIS (Lil sis) My Assistant/Publicist, SHAKIR (Lil bro), BRYAN (Cuzzo), KAREEM a.k.a. SMURK, MICHAEL a.k.a. BOX (cuzzo), SLIM (folk folks), RON, PISTOL, GOGGLES, T.AUSTIN (AMG), KALIEF a.k.a. (MURDA), LOS (Lil bro R&G), PEE WEE (The Bury), YELLA (The Bury), J.R. (East, Bmore), FAT JACK (The Bury), JOE FITZGERALD (East, Bmore), DEON (East, Bmore), BAY BOY (LH&GO), BIG TY (The Bury), EMORY JONES, B.PLANTER (Crazy B), SLICK a.k.a. WOO (The Bury), NEPHEW (The Bury), BB a.k.a. (Big Baby), NUTTY KING (Nephew), T.J (Nephew), DUCK a.k.a. UNK (Lil Bro), MALLY MANSON (Philly), NAVON, LUCK (The Bury), BLACK a.k.a. Biscuit (Danville, VA), MIKE (Wheel Deal), ABDUS a.k.a. (UNCLE G), VINNY (Cuzzo), DJ NELLY NELL (Bore's Finest), GEORGIA (RIP), ZEBE (Lil Sis), PACO, BIG C, LIL C, SAHIB, NEE NEE, RAHIEM a.k.a MURDA ROC (The Carter's: Newark, NJ), SALEEM a.k.a. KB (Wilmington, De), SALEEM (Lil Bro, Wilmington, De), AYYOOB (Roch, NY), NOODLES (L.E.S, NY), CUTTY (Tortola, V.I.), THE MUSLIM TWINS JUSTIN & JASON (Newark, NJ), BASHIR (Newark, NJ), JIMMY (East, Bmore), AYYOOB a.k.a. SUNNY (Mo, County), PEYTON (The Village), WOP (West, Bmore), LIL MARTY, LIL DAMO,LECO, LEE (Harlem NY), DON POOH (Bk< NY), DIAMOND R.I.P (Bk, NY), KEVIN LILES, DJ TOOMP (ATL Super Producer), JAZZE PHA (ATL) Super Producer), ZACK (ATL), SOUTHWEST T, BIG MEECH, PAUL a.k.a. PJ (La, CA), RUSSELL (Cape Cod), C MACK & BRAINZ (ROLLIN 100'S), EMIT THE JEWELER (H Town), YOUNG LACE (H Town), RON RON (The Chi), Chris (K Town), SAADIQ (South Boston, VA), LATEEF (The D), KING DAWUD (DC), WAHID (O.G OF Richmond, VA), ABDUL KHULUQ a.k.a. TWIN (DC), SHAJEE a.k.a. TROY (Philly), WAKEEN (The Lou), T.K THIRD RAIL ENT (Bk, NY), MIKE FERNANDEZ (Lil Bro, Balto by way of NY), YBS (YOUNG BALLERS SHINING), Ybs Skola, Ybs Kenny, Ybs Snook, Ybs Ali, Ybs Bunny, LIL CHINO, STOKEY, YGG (YOUNG GO GETTA'S), Ygg Tay, Ygg Mike, CHRISSY a.k.a THUG DIVA (H Town), LIL KERRY (H Town), LEX (H Town), CHIZZARA (Lil Sis), TINK (P-Burg), BIG STACKS (P-Burg), COREY FOX (Ph's), KAREEM a.k.a. AVON, WES & JAMAL CURRY (Ph's), DENMOE (Ph's), LIL DEVON a.k.a. PETEY (Ph's), LIL DINKY (Ph's), BUCK (Ct), FAT DINKY (Ph's), REG (Lil Bro-From The Peak, Va), FAT SAM (M&G), YUK BIRD (West, Bmore), PINKY (East, Bmore), AMIR a.k.a. KEITH, ALI (Bk;Ny), RAMADAN a.k.a. PEEZY (East, Bmore), ANTHONY a.k.a. PIMP( BX, NY), LIL AL (West, Bmore), MIKE (Robert St. West, Bmore), TICK

(Robert St. West, Bmore), KIA R.I.P (Robert St. West, Bmore), DAME (Newark, NJ), WEASE (Lil Bro, DC), ROME (Lil Bro, DC), SUPREME (Queens;Ny), ROB C (HQB), MIZZ (The Gate), B.I. a.k.a BUGATTI (Soundview BX, NY), SUAVEXXX (La, CA), DULANI (Lil Bro -UMG Chauffeured), LUV (The Village), BIP R.I.P. (West, Bmore), LIL HOWIE (Ph's), GOODY (Ph's), DELL (Ph's), ROBERTA (Balto & NC), SANDY (Gutta Mag:Charlotte, NC), MR 704 (Charlotte, NC), TEE (Wf Apt's), SLICK (West, Bmore), THELONIOUS MONK a.k.a. SHAKA (Middleton, NY),

Q&A with GARNETT “MR. BIGGZ” SMITH B.G. a.k.a GOLDMOUTH (Street Consequences-Mph's, TN), MS. ARMSTRONG a.k.a BOSS LADY (Mph's, TN), SHAWN a.k.a DAME DASH, PUDA, SPUD (LA, CA, MONIE (Lil Sis), LIL LARRY (R.I.P.), LIL CHANCE, RON (Harlem, NY), WAZIM (New Jersey), CADDY DA DON, 100 GRANDMAN, EWATTS, MANDO, VELLY, BUTLER, LINDA (Master Manicurist- Bmore), TWAN, GEE (Newark;NJ), YAZID a.k.a. LAVA (Miami, FL & Newark, NJ), BOO HAYES (West, Bmore), FREAKY FROKS (Throgs Neck Bronx, NY), CARIBBEAN a.k.a. BEAN (West, Bmore), The Muslima Twins- Melise & Malaika, AYANA, LILS (Neph-East, Bmore), FURUQ a.k.a. FAT FACE CHARLES, MARVIN (KAREEM) NOBLE, TOBE (Wonder Boy- ATL) TRAV R.I.P. (ATL), GERM BLACK (Bk, NY), LUMP (Garrison, Blvd-West, Bmore), MEL MAXI (Harlem, NY), $MONEY$ (York Rd; Northwest, Bmore), MIAMI DEE, LIL WILL a.k.a. TOMB, ROSS (Biscoe, NC), BLACK TAY (Sursum Cordas, DC), MEL (New York), LIL CUZZO a.k.a. Deniro (West, Bmore), SLICK PULLA (East, Bmore), MOO MOO (East, Bmore), JEEZY (East, Bmore), BIRD (East, Bmore), FELLA (N&P), CUZZO (N&P), JOE SKIMBOLS, ESCO (St Thomas, V.I.), KAREEM a.k.a. RONNIE (The D), LB a.k.a LIL BIGG (Bonaphide, Mgt-Denver, Colorado), SINSEER PUBLISHING (Denver; Colorado), SELENA (Ny to Florida), DIAMOND (NY to Florida), HAILEY (NY to Florida), MACKENZIE a.k.a MAC BALLA (NY to Florida), AROD SOMEBODY (DC), TAY ROSE (Lil Bro, East, Bmore), JAY ROCK (Sin City; Alabama), DEE LONG (ATL), WALTER (ATL), WORM (ATL), K.MALONE (DC), COCO CHANEL: G.DAUGHTER (Dc), LIL TAJ (Dc), BILLY a.k.a. WAKE R.I.P. (LA, Ca), FRANKO R.I.P. (The ATL Mayor), NORM THE STORM (Newark, NJ), SLICK RICK (Rich Sex Co-La, CA), NICK (Bk, NY), FAYBACH (Don Diva), SHAREEF (West, Bmore), DAP (Dc), SEAN a.k.a. LAID BACK JACK (Bmore), MARVIN PROCTOR (Bmore), BIG LIP TONY (South, Bmore), MONEY MO (Bmore), V DOT (Bmore), LIL SKIES (PENNSYLVANIA), RAQUEL a.k.a. RACHEESEY (LA, CA), GREGORY HORN a.k.a. G-MONEY (Bmore), SALEEM a.k.a. TERAYE (PHILLY): TO ALL MY BALTIMORE RAPPER'S FILMMAKER'S. DJ's, PRODUCER'S AND PROMOTER'S, DOING THERE THING IN THE CITY. SHOUT OUT TO ALL THE FALLEN SOLDIER'S WHO PAID THE PRICE WITH THERE LIFE. SHOUT OUT TO ALL THE SOLID STANDUP GOOD MEN AND WOMEN INCARCERATED IN EVERY DETENTION CENTER, COUNTY JAIL, CITY JAIL, STATE JAIL, AND FEDERAL PRISONS WORLDWIDE AND INTERNATIONAL. KEEP STRIVING FOR GREATNESS AND REMAIN POSITIVE, FOCUSED, DETERMINED, MOTIVATED, AND EVERYTHING WILL FALL INTO PLACE. ALSO BO ON THE LOOKOUT FOR MY BOOK IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. "BIGGER THEN LIFE" AND MY MOVIE AND SOUNDTRACK "MR., BIGGS THE UNTOLD STORY" COMING TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU SOON. CONTACT ME AT VIA FBOP INMATE LOCATER GARNETT SMITH 54853-037. YOUR WELCOME TO SEND ALL MAIL AND REQUEST. ALSO YOU CAN CONTACT ME ON ALL SOCIAL MEDIA SITES. INSTAGRAM: Mr_biggz_1: FACEBOOK: @facebook.com/garnett.smith.129: TWITTER: @mr.biggz ALUTA CONTINUA BIG HOMIE JUST STRENGTH #AREALONE #BHOB

Born in 1993, Brandon Rose is a Bronx native. He grew up playing basketball, and by the time he got to high school, he had become known for a unique style of play that resembled thanNBA MVP Derrick Rose, winning him the nickname “Rose,” which has stuck ever since. He attended Mercy College, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree, and New York University, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Marketing. As a rapper, Brandon cites as his primary influences Jadakiss, Eminem, 50

Cent, Fabolous, Meek Mill, Nas, and J. Cole. He discovered his passion for music in the early 2000s, and in the years since, he has used music writing and production as a form of therapy and meditation, inhaling the beat and exhaling the words and disappearing into the song. Brandon writes his music for an audience that spans all generations, but he targets mainly millennials. His sound combines a modern street style with classic 90s hip-hop beats. Long-term, he intends to sign a contract with a major label or launch his own label. A few of his videos have gone viral, and ThisIs50 has even featured him in an interview, and he has been featured on Hot 97's "Who's Next" series. To keep up with Brandon Rose and all his latest releases, follow him on Social Media Social Media Accounts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_brandonrose_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bczubak93 Twitter: https://twitter.com/Albo_Bx

Baltimore’s own Money Monroe, the Rapper /Singer/ song writer. Who recently released an Album titled “The Playboy Tape “out on every streaming platform. Is a well-known artist in the city. He is also known for his live performances. Most with his Whylie Band, Money also is a designer of some dope Peace’s from his Vince Mahogany Line . Check out his new work and be on the lookout for morework he has coming to you. Follow him on Ig: @moneymo_1222plyboy And on YouTube :Money Monroe Money Monroe.

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Fernandez Live is a Musical Maestro, Producer and Activist born and raised in Baltimore, the son of a strong hard-working loving teenage-mother and a pain stricken father who committed suicide. Beyond producing music in New York City, Fernandez has curated and created multiple interactive art/music show

installations on his OBAAH Indie Tour (Our Beginnings All Are Humble), showcasing his music, brand and other dynamic artists, facilitating spontaneous creative collaborations. He exudes equal parts trap, pop and consciousness. Blogger/photographer Michael Tapp wrote, “Fernandez's style popped from over 100 ft. away, he has enough creative energy to power all of Times Square.” Fernandez has collaborated with various renowned artists and his music is supported by many celebrities including: Wyclef jean, Eric Benet, Jay-Z, Emory Jones (Roc Nation) and Derek Williams (NY Knicks), DJ Zeke Thomas, Tyson Beckford, Bimmy Antney, Sean Kingston, Tyrone Hunter, Elizabeth An (Restaurateur), Chris Gotti (The Inc. Records), Jazze Pha (Super producer), Lyor & Az Cohen. Fernandez’s latest singles can be heard at the hottest clubs and venues in NYC, including Webster Hall, Bedford Hall, SOB's, PhD, Tao, The Gansevoort, Electric Room, The Late, The VNYL and more. Fernandez states, “The words I breathe are manifesting as I exhale.” Keep up with upcoming tour dates and new releases @FernandezLive and OBAAH.com #OBAAH #WEAREOBAAH New 2019 musical releases https://bit.ly/2QoL2pt https://obaah.fanlink.to/fun obaah.fanlink.to/love Follow our podcast, @WeAreObaah, on Anchor: https://anchor.fm/we-are-obaah www.OBAAH.com www.moodswingsnyc.com

On January 10, 1999 Rollingstone Magazine’s #1 television show of all time “The Soprano’s” aired on HBO forever changing the global thought process towards organized crime. A fictional tale of a larger than life, New Jersey crime boss “Tony Soprano” played by the late great actor “James Gandolfini” offered a weekly glimpse into the made up life of a… “GANGSTER”. However, if the ground breaking hit series wasn’t fictional it would have probably been located in Buffalo, New York and its star would most definitely be the super charismatic real life gangster rapper they call… “Saint Soprano”. Born David McKithen aka “Saint Soprano” in one of the poorest cities in America “Buffalo, New York” served as the rearing spot for a young man who at the tender age of 11 years old embarked into a “365” day’s a year life of crime. No crime too “BIG” or too “SMALL” was his model for criminal success and sadly the residents of Buffalo, New York bared witness with a criminal rap sheet that reads like a who’s who list of crimes. Young “Saint Soprano” terrorized “the city of good neighbors” like no gangster before or after him earning him the nickname… “The Buffalo Menace”. Although, the son of a hardworking single mother who doubled as the lead singer of her church gospel choir couldn’t derail “Saints” relentless appetite to take to the streets like a Bat out of Hell. Routinely involved in fights, stabbings, kidnappings, drug dealing, shootings, gang banging, along with serving 11 years in New York’s maximum prison facility at Elmira is what firmly “Saint Soprano’s” status as Buffalo’s “Gangster” of all “Gangsters”… Bar None. A lover of music since a young lad when he first saw iconic rapper “Tupac Shakur’s” heartfelt music video “Brenda’s Got a Baby” coupled with laying on the floor and listening to his mother sing gospel tunes while cleaning up their house is what permanently make music his top secret passion. In a turn of events of epic proportions the former Buffalo menace who many be-

lieved or prayed would never get released from prison is now on the cusp of international Superstardom! Having harnessed his rap skills in perhaps the toughest environment known to mankind, the prison yard is where “Saint Soprano” first performed and is also where he came up with the now signature one of a kind MC style that he calls… “Vivid Exploratory”. The winner of countless rap battles while incarcerated is the badge of honor so proudly worn by a bonafied “Generational Talent” who during his prison bid came up with the name of his record label, “Black Forbes List Entertainment”, to honor is deceased brother (Jamar Diablo Mack) who in 2004 was murdered by the Niagara Falls Police. Having already released the Hood Classic Album “The Phantom of the Opera” to the rave reviews that featured the smash hits “4 the Flex”, “Chef Talk”, “FaceTime”, and the infectious lead single “Bully Lyfe” that showcases multi-platinum recording artist Beanie Sigel is what has the buzz over his latest musical offering entitled “TitanGod Amongst Gangster’s” at a fever’s pitch. With production from some of the hottest producers out such as: DJ Shay, Flex Beats, Ninety8, Nitrose, Lonnie B, Shine By J, MCK + HD, Jimmy Soprano, along with having Titan co-signed and Hosted by Buffalo’s own Legendary Fleet DJ Bandana Black. Never one to sit and be content the B.U.L.LY.” Built – Utilizing - Lethal - Logic – Yearly Fam leader is busier than ever. Acting, modeling, writing scripts, and oh yeah last but certainly not least overseeing “Black Forbes List” Grad A staple of talent highlighted by “Scottie Drippin, Mike Mason, Lil Afrikka, Fatt Mike, Sparkz, The A100’s, and the Queen of the label Brenda Redd” So the next time you or someone you know find yourself feigning for the “Soprano’s” no need to worry just call… SAINT! Written by “The Voice” T.Pl Frazier for www.celebritywritings.com @2019 All Rights Reserved

Black Forbes List Entertainment’s new signee Darryl Cathcart professionally known as “Ay Benji was born in Buffalo, New York on January 16, 1989. At the age of 8 months old, Benji was adopted by his aunt due to troubles with his parents. At four years of age, Benji developed his passion for music learning the piano and singing in the choir at church. At the age of 10, Ay Benji moved to Los Angeles with his sister actress: Debra Holt, where he was introduced to Hollywood. Benji expanded his musical gifts and acting abilities by performing in musicals and productions across Los Angeles and Up State New York Darryl attended Uni high school and West La college as a music major. With influences such as Andre 3000, Black Eye Peas, John legend, Stevie Wonder, Ay Benji is set to Drop his Debut album “I Made It” late 2019 featuring the hit single “Going Up” featuring rising superstar and label head Saint Soprano. With Versatile flows and soothing but yet Unique Voice and swag, Benji plans to top the charts and wow fans all over the world.Now with the backing of independent super label Black Forbes List Entertainment.

Mac Fair is a well-known rapper in the East Tennessee area who is really on the move. Things can only go up for the talented MC who has had a passion for music

since childhood. Mac Fair who real name is Romelious Danyell Fair was born and raised in Tupelo Mississippi. He played sports all of his young adult life and was a member of the Henry Hampton Elks Lodge. As a young child his grandfather would sit around and play the bass guitar. Being intrigued by the music he showed interest in it by writing flows and making beats with friends. All of that changed when he and some friends were asked to compete in school talent shows. People took a liking to the music and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when it became serious to the point that he knew something was there. He moved to Tennessee after his son died in 2004. His son died of respiratory failure at only 2 months old. Putting music to the side while trying to make a way in a new place was hard for him at first until he ran into fellow friend and rapper Colyone Da Don and Curtis Mapp his trusted friend and manager. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been on ever since and He hasn't looked back. Even though troubled times seemed like they were hard to shake with a few legal stumbles here and there, nothing can stop what this guy has planned to elevate his music career. Mac Fair is on a mission to build the Mac Family Entertainment empire brick by brick to become one of the most recognized and successful independent labels while showing he is a heavily gifted artist as well as his team. With releasing a mixtape series called Shots of Don Julio he's hoping that he can take the world on a MAC journey by vibing and relating to life situations that we

all cherish and face. While at the same time keeping it Mac'n. Volume one of the series is already available.

Curtis Mapp is a Chef at Michaels Casual Dining in Athens, Tennessee; with over 15 years of culinary experience. He strives to and is dedicated to continuous growth to striving to bring good food to customer's satisfaction. Despite the trouble childhood and constant run in with the wrong side of

the law; losing over 15 years of his young teenage life, Curtis Mapp born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee is a culinary graduate of Le Cordon Bleu of Atlanta, Ga with an Associate of Occupational Science. Curtis Mapp, through discipline which he learned has helped push him to many accomplishments. He was awarded president distinction of culinary arts 2008; student of distinction 2008; also awarded certificates of appreciation from many distinguish organizations such as: Inland Seafood Competition; open house and event preparation; medieval kitchen master workshop; wine and master workshop; and the USO award of excellence. Curtis Mapp is a hardworking, honest, and dependable person. He learned through his pass misguided experiences, that life is hard work that takes discipline, dedication, and the drive of determination to make your dream a reality, something I try to instill in my artist Mac Fair. Curtis Mapp hopes to pass on to his artist and future artist the lessons he learned from his own miseducation and misunderstanding; that our humanity is what makes us who we are, and that the magic happens within our humanity and that our humanity also serves as a laboratory in acquiring the tools needed for us to elevate into the higher heights of our being.

Arthur “Burr Mac” Jordan from Buffalo, NY Brings a Strong Mixture of Styles from Rap RNB and POP A Rising Unsigned Artist from the Trenches and Most Notorious Neighborhood in his City. He tributes his Music To His Fallin Friends And The Death of His Cousins To Gun Violence And The Constant Struggles Of Everyday Life Coming up In a World Built around the Streets

Whitney (Big Man Ufunkybish) Marcell was born December 17, 1980 New Orleans Louisiana he grew up 19 years in one of the hardest project in Louisiana 10ward Saint Thomas projects where he was raised by his grandmother the late Mercedes Jackson ....In 2004 he became to become the manager of one of the hottest young Artist out of New Orleans/ Caliope Project by the name of Lil Chuckee at the Age of 9...Lil Chuckee is not only just his artist Chuckee is his son..... He was the driving force behind him which caused him to be looked at by one of the greatest rappers of all time Lil Wayne but was cut short in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina... Big Man was forced to move his family to Atlanta Georgia...but once I arrive in Atlanta that's where all the magic happen...after only being in Atlanta for 5 months buy summer he already had Lil Chuckee what a hit song I'm a hot boy&3 of his own Videos. He also landed him on tour with Bow on the Price of fame tour in over 30 Major Music like Monica every time the beat drop, Lil Boosie zoom, franchise boys Ridin Rims etc. videos. He also was in on Ellen with Monic and 10 major magazines and one of the most respected throughout the music Industry all before it ever linking back up with Lil Wayne. Due to Katrina Lil Wayne Lost contact with Big Man for Chuckee saw him in those videos and reach back ....he got Lil Chuckee signed to young money in the year 2009 prior to being not signed since 2007. He remind Manager to Lil chuckee throughout his young money /cash money for 13 years where he helped him receive a BET award for best group Young Money he was the first kid on the gulf coast to ever receive a BET award at the age of 13years old . He also directed over 100 music videos on Worldstar and other sites 2 hit singles "Girl I Got You feat Lil Twist " and the "Wop feat little Richard sample off of the Young Money album "We are Young "Money He was on over five tours from Bow Wow to Lil Wayne as well as his own tour. Bigman was highly respected in the music industry he remain a Loyle Father/ Manager up until the departure of Lil Chuckee's contract with Young money. With the decision of Lil Chuckee & his mother in 2015 and the divorcing of

his mother Bigman let them take over full responsibility of his own career at the age of 19 in early 2015.....Big Man knew now Is time to focus on his own career after helping his son reach success at an early age.....The 2015 Big man set out to start his own record label called Ufunkybish Ent.. In late 2016 Bigman recorded his first song which was his hit song Birds up in Here prod by Aron Devon and started the wave of songs like "UfunkyBish, Big Fine, and Booth up etc. as well as over three videos to say he’s only been doing his music for his self-4 months. It's like he's been doing it forever which he has been since being brought up in a family band started by his father the late Whitney Who singlehandedly took his family of 4 ...2 daughters and wife as well as Bigman and his self how to play all instruments keyboard ,drums, guitar and Bigman was the vocal artist. What always put another man's property before his self-he’s finally taking the opportunity for his self and is starting to really pay off. Bigman is a loving father to his 12-year-old daughter Whitney who he named her after his self-give him all the energy needs to make great music. With all the great accomplishment in One year he has a song called “Fuck (Ufunkybish slide) Cancer” Song prod by longtime friend Joey Da Y That been placed in the Movie Soundtrack called Sticky Situations that’s available all streaming network ...He could be seen in magazines like Cream Mag And Forbs Mag But His most even greater accomplishment is Now on all available streaming websites Called “UFUNKYBISH “..He is extremely proud of this project especially by him recording seven out of 12 track his self, He wanted to accomplish with this album to show people with God Staying humble and remaining optimistic you can accomplish anything independently.....Big Man Ufunkybish With All his life blessings just want to shows that with God on your side you can accomplish anything at any time or age in life It’s just his timing but your grinding ...stay humble stay optimistic stay blessed Ufunkybish zz luv Y’all

Mac Sosa, Born in Raised in Kansas City, MISSOURI, I started doing this music thing at an early age, I was a wild child though. Started running with the hard rollin 30 crips at 13 did 3 years at 14 in Youth Authorities. Music always Keep Me. G you Know By the age of 20 I was doing everything from pimping to robbery and then I met a blood dude who changed my life, told me I was to talented to lose my life to the streets showed me how to stack and ballout. I invested in the music and now I'm here to bring it to the world. I been all over the world got song out with Slim Thug around 3 or 4 projects and stores Many Mixtapes, built an empire off blood sweat and tears u know. I Started My Label We The Money Team Inc. Jan.22,2013 And Launched My Fly Pimping Brand June 2016, I just started to play with the movie scene this year...but I got a treat coming stay tuned #MacSosa

Fresh off home from his prison sentence Rootabang (born Tavio Jack) wasted little time getting back to his musical passion. Prior to his incarceration, he was quickly emerging as a young artist to watch from Cleveland, OH. While music was his first love it came second to providing for himself. Hissong "Wah" was released to YouTube in 2012, and shot out the gate to over 50k views before being jailed for 2 yrs. "When I put out my first song I was young and hustling... I

didn't give it much thought. We just put it out and it still did numbers. That let me know when I touched back down focused what it could be." On release, Rootabang quickly reconnected with long time friend and hit-maker Preme Dibiasi to create. The Drumgod produced, "Get the Money", is Root bang’s first release from his newly minted FNO Ent. (Fly N*gas only) quickly made its way through the streets. His follow-up “Money Long” has become a viral hit throughout the Midwest. Partnering with Born Leaders Music Group, Rootabang is preparing to release an onslaught of new music and visuals that will undoubtedly thrust him back on the national music radar with a vengeance.

It's a pleasure always. I've learned to be humble and have patience in all situations. If these 14 years behind bars taught me anything it's that. I'm Bnoe (Baddest Nigga on Earth) I'm from the worst part of L.A. AFCB the east side low bottoms. Where half the people from L.A. won't even go. That's where I was raised and where my mentality comes from. I caught a home invasion/kidnap at a young age that landed me in prison for 16 years. That was 14 years ago and all thanks to God I'll be walking out these doors very soon. A lot of people come to prison and change they life around. Some go to school, some find religion. Some get a trade and plan for work. Some don't do shit but get high and stress. To each his own but me.... I read. I wrote. I practiced. Over and over. Year after year! I've written over 500 songs. I've done 4 complete mixtapes (Seeing Red (2015) Aviation Boys/datpiff.com (2016) Armed & Dangerous (2018) and highly anticipated AFD April Foolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day mixtape (2019) I've done over 80 features. I've even hosted a mixtape! I have over 20 videos on YouTube and countless promo videos floating on the web. And all that's from a cellphone. And yes I do have multiple write ups/115 behind my prison contraband. But that's a story for another time. I've been practicing my craft for years actually doing what I love. I understand with hard work and dedication you can change your life no matter where you came from and no matter what mistakes you've made. I took a bad

situation and ran with it. I wake up motivated. I go to sleep with anticipation of waking up. My goal is to be an inspiration to the youth. 2pac said it best a rose can grow from concrete. We gotta lot of noise to make! Trust me.... my movie will be watched and my book will be read! Just wait for it. Special thanks to Peaches and the General BG! You know the love and loyalty that comes from feeding a dog in a cage. And shout to my Big Bro @moresano the dopiest Christian rapper alive! It's still Herd Life! HLF ENT. Instagram: @aob_noe41 Facebook: Dinky Gambnoe YouTube: Gambnoe

Rashad Martin aka Boi Rippa is making a buzz with his new hit single "Vibes" produced by Jon Dough. The single comes from his current album "Koldflows N Brainstorms 2: The Art of Storytellingâ&#x20AC;?, which is available on all streaming sites. The Greenwood, SC native started doing music at the age of 16 after the tragic death of his uncle. He started taking the music seriously after the incarceration of his baby brother in 2012. He a has worked with a few upstate artist like Buddy Boi, Bundy Yardie, and F.L.A.T.T.I.E.S Jus to name a few. His musical influences are J.Cole OutKast Kevin Gates Nipsey Hussle. He is all

for positive vibes and bettering the community around him. His favorite quote... Music controls Tha masses! These aren't just words this is a way of life!

What's Good? My name is Monique Porter from Warwick GA but I live in Cordele GA stage name Damost cause I do the most every time high school graduated college wasn't for me I wanna rap! and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m coming for everything they said I couldn't have! Music has always been an outlet Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m aggressive because of what I have endured out of pocket it's hard for a female rapper like I paying a fake promoter couldn't even attend da show and I dissed him local rapper took my verse

off I came harder than him no support from my city ! Country grammar but I let my music speak for it stack stay humble and pray!

Del Haze or Marcus Winfrey was born November 22, 1989 in Buffalo, NY. Del Haze caught the musical bug around the age of 7 but started writing his own lyrics at age 11. In 2007 Aaron Coleman who watched Haze progress over the years with his skills signed him to the independent label, Roc City Productions, based out of Rochester, NY. In October 2008, Del Haze at the time known as Young Spade, dropped his first 21 songs album, The Intern. It did not do well as expected and after differences with management, he parted ways with the label and took a 2 year break from recording. During that time he changed his name after finding himself and staying true becoming Del Haze (for E. Delevan and Hazelwood Avenue). Later discovered by Allen Maxwell or Almax, Max believed in Haze and his skills where he introduced him to his DJ and new best friend, DJ Enwhy. Haze ended up with his first return show while in process of making his second album The Intern 2. In honor of the passing of best friend DJ Enwhy in 2017, Del finished the album in 2018 after coping with what happened and dedicated the album to him naming it, The Intern 2: The Michael Pawelek Album. With so many classics on the album, streaming on all musical platforms sky rocketed when it dropped on November 22, 2018. He has continued to carry on Enwhyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name with him in his heart and music and currently released his new album Return of The Dead Eye June 23, 2019.

Hello my name is Devin Robinson 31 years old started at music when I was 15 now I'm well-known promoter growing and building a modeling agency called Queen visions and I have a record label Awoken dreams and a full-on promotion team so I'm definitely thankful for this opportunity and would love to be in the magazine and working with the team as well and you have my full support and promo recently I started a rap battle league as well call guerrilla warfare Arena and we are making moves big moves we have battle set on September 22nd and next year we will be going against a few people from Queen of the Ring and king of the DOT and more I love what I do! Check out few of things we have going!

Jug The Illest was born in Chicago Illinois but Jug spent most of his young life in the city of Philadelphia north Philly Badlandz to be exact. He became influenced

by the urban life shifting back and forth from the city of Trenton, Camden and Philly. His artistry was influenced by the Graffiti, Djs, break dancing And Skateboarding culture of the inner city gravitating to this lifestyle. The only father figure Jug had growing up was his step father, who tried to show him the fundamentals of life and break him from being a hard headed kid. When his step father was shot and killed Jug became distraught not knowing how to express his emotions. He began a clothing line with his friend that didn't work out and also struggled as a clothing designer for Miskeen Originals Clothing Line.