VOLUME 3 / ISSUE 2
COMPLIMENTARY
Unapologetically Delivering News To Communities Of Color in Westchester & Surrounding Areas
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BW’S WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
GREENBURGH’S OWN ATLANTIC STARR PAGE 8
ELLA FITZGERALD
SCHOOL ST. BLUES BY PRISCILLA ECHI PAGE 9
PAGE 12
NEW TOUR, NEW MUSIC AND A ROLE IN THE NEW SPINOFF OF THE STARZ HIT TV SERIES POWER POWER BOOK II: GHOST...
IT’S GOOD TO BE THE QUEEN
PAGES 14-15 PHOTO: MARY J. BLIGE PERFORMING AT BARCLAYS CENTER AUGIST 28, 2019 IN OUTFIT DESIGNED BY DAPPER DAN [BLACK WESTCHESTER]
BW PRODUCER SPOTLIGHT: TONY DOFAT AND RON ‘AMEN-RA’ LAWRENCE PAGE 17
THE QUEEN OF HIP-HOP SOUL
BRAND NUBIAN TEN HIP-HOP JEFF REDD, DANGER MOUSE, SAMPLE WHAT, SAMPLE WHO USHERED IN AN ERA OF DMX, AL B SURE, PETE ROCK & CL ARTISTS WHO SAMPLED POSITIVITY, CONSCIOUSNESS CLASSICS AND KNOWLEDGE OF SELF FROM THE 914! SMOOTH, THE LOX & MUCH MORE WESTCHESTER ARTISTS PAGE 21 PAGE 22 PAGE 20
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
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4 BLACK WESTCHESTER
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
NEWS WITH THE BLACK POINT OF VIEW
BLACK WESTCHESTER 5
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK Founded in 2014 by DAMON K. JONES AJ WOODSON Published by URBANSOUL MEDIA GROUP 455 Tarrytown Rd., Suite 1318 White Plains, NY 10607 (914) 979-2093 www.BlackWestchester.com
Email:
BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA:
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Publisher DAMON K. JONES @DamonKJones
Editor-In-Chief AJ WOODSON
@BWEditorInChief
Mistress Of Information Brenda L. Crump News Reporters/ Writers AJ Woodson Damon K. Jones Priscilla Echi
As Publisher of Black Westchester Magazine (BW), I would like to thank everyone for their support of our efforts to bring information to the people of Westchester County. As we embark on a new chapter for BW, we hope to continue to empower the reader on issues in their communities. Independent media like BW has become more than a mere institution; instead, the independent media acts as a direct participant in the traditional three-branch system of governance. What many fail to realize is that independent media serves a fundamental role in making democracies run efficiently, even though there are frequent clashes. Independent media system thus often “reflects the political philosophy in which Democracy indeed functions”. This being said, BW will not be disregarded as a trivial player in the responsibilities of being a check and balance system in the political process of the Black Communities of Westchester. BW’s purpose is not only to address the political process that affects the everyday lives of communities of colour in Westchester County. BW’s mission has also been to shine a light on the brilliant culture, morals, values and elegant lifestyle of Black people. It’s time to change the narrative on how Black people are perceived in media. As Publisher of BW, our doors are open to the public. From the publication, the website, our radio show and now the newspaper; our doors are open to the people. We do not do this for any grander position or status; we do it for the people.
A FEW WORDS FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Welcome to our special Westchester Music Edition of Black Westchester. This issue is dedicated to many of the individuals from Westchester who contributed to the county’s rich history of Black Music. Ofcourse there was no way to include them all, we cramed as many of the artists that came from or lived in Westchester. With all the craziness of the earlier primary, we wanted to give everyone a break from the politics and corruption. I want to personally thank Priscilla Echi who greatly contibuted to this issue, I could not have done it without her. We hope you enjoy this special edition as much as we enjoyed putting it all together. For all candidates running in the November General Election, October 15th issue is our last issue before the election. So if you want to advertise this is your last chance to advertise before the election. To advertise or to sponsor the anniversary of PBP Radio hit us at AdvertiseWithBW@gmail.com Send us your feedback and let us know what you think of this issue and let us know subjects/ topics you would like to see us cover in the future by sending an email to BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com. Peace and Blessings
Photographers AJ Woodson Priscilla Echi Cynthia Turnquest-Jones Graphic Designers AJ Woodson Paula S. Woodson/ PS Visually Speakin’ For Advertising Rates AdvertiseWithBW@gmail.com Letters To The Editor BWEditorInChief@gmail.com
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6 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
DMX CHALLENGE STEPHANIE MILLS AND THE ON TWITTER? WHISPERS ANNOUNCED AT NJPAC WHAT IS THE
Despite the fact the legendary rapper hasnt always trended much lately, the hashtag “DMX Challenge” has caught fire on social media. The rapper, who’s real name is Earl Simmons, was huge in the late 90s and the early 2000s, and will soon be getting back on the road with what Juicy J is calling the “Three 6 Mafia Reunion Tour,” but right now, users online are having fun with his 1999 hit, “What They Want,” featuring Sisqo. Featured on DMX’s third album, And Then There Was X, “What They Really Want” first came out 19 years ago, and while it only peaked at No. 49 on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time, the song is getting a resurgence with the #DMXChallenge online. In the second verse of the song, DMX does an extended roll call of all the women he’s allegedly had flings with, and he famously lists each lady by name. In the #DMXCHallenge, users online are making a video of all their different looks to match up with the girls names in the song, which is no easy feat. On “What They Really Want,” DMX lists all the following names in the second verse: “There was Brenda, LaTisha, Linda, Felicia, Dawn, LeShaun, Ines and Alicia, Teresa, Monica, Sharron, Nicki, Lisa, Veronica, Karen, Vicky (damn), Cookie, well I met her in a ice cream parlor, Tonya, Diane, Lori and Carla, Marina, Selena, Katrina, Sabrina, about three Kims (WHAT?) LaToya and Tina, Shelley, Bridget, Cathy, Rasheeda, Kelly, Nicole, Angel, Juanita, Stacy, Tracie, Ronna and Ronda, Donna, Yolanda, Tawana and Wanda.” The reactions online to once again hearing one of DMX’s biggest hits, and the amount of effort being putt into these videos are impressive for many. While some users are loving hearing the classic DMX track, others were disappointed to discover it had nothing to do with freestyle rapping. A few reactions took a new philosophical take on hearing all the women listed in “What They Really Want” after seeing all the quick cut videos. Perhaps, DMX wasn’t listed numerous women, but one lady and all her different personalities. What the #DMXChallenge can confirm, however, is that a lot people have a lot of selfie photos and videos saved on their phone. DMX is has recieved a lot of free positive publicity online in 2019 from the challenge as he works on his new album on Def Jam that is expected to bring the Yonkers rapper back to the top of the charts..
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) presents Stephanie Mills and The Whispers on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. The awe-inspiring Stephanie Mills (original star of The Wiz) performs R&B hits from an illustrious 35-year career in a soul-stirring evening with The Whispers. Part of NJPAC’s annual celebration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stephanie Mills has distinguished herself as an actress and performer who is at home on the Broadway stage as she is in the recording studio.Five gold albums and hits such as I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love,Home,Something in the Way (You Make Me Feel) and Never Knew Love Like This Before have become enduring classics. Her critically acclaimed appearances in shows like the Tony Award-winning The Wizand Your Arms Too Short to Box with God have assured her of a consistently loyal following among fans, industry insiders and critics. Like so many of her contemporaries, her journey as a performer began with singing gospel in church in Brooklyn. One of the world’s longest-running soul vocal groups, The Whispers are celebrating over 50 years in the industry. Known for their smooth soulful ballads, they remain one of the premier R&B groups to ever grace the stage. Tickets to see Stephanie Mills with The Whispers went On-Sale Friday, July 26th at at NJPAC.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722) or by visiting the NJPAC Box Office.
LOVE AND R&B RETURNED WITH NEW HOST AL B. SURE!
Al B. Sure! debuted the syndicated evening radio show Love and R&B Hosted By Al B. Sure! on Monday, August 5, 2019. Bringing over 20 years of experience in the broadcast industry, Al B. Sure! plans to share his feeling for the music, the moment and a personal connection every Sunday through Friday, 7PM to midnight. Al’s vision for the new program is to take the listener on a journey, offering romantic current and classic hit soulful music, including weekly visits from celebrity guests and intriguing personalities from every genre of the entertainment industry. Radio veteran Sean Andre will join Al B! as the show’s producer. The radio show will debut in markets including Dallas, Washington DC, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Detroit, Raleigh-Durham, Richmond and Columbus, Ohio. When making the announcement, Al B. Sure!’s excitement was evident: “I’m elated to be part of what media icon Ms. Cathy Hughes identified as the Dream Team of Radio – Reach Media. I look forward to taking Love and R&B to a new level.” David Kantor, Reach Media and Radio One CEO, stated “Al B. Sure! has a style that’s been well established with his music, performance and past broadcast experience that is ideal for evening listening. I’m confident that he will be a nightly draw to a very large listening audience.” His radio career happened naturally starting in the early 2000s during a visit to the Bay Area for a charity event. Al B! did an on-air interview with radio legend Renel on 98.1 KISS FM. On hearing the interview, the Program Director asked Al B. Sure! to consider doing a weekend radio show. Next came syndication of his ‘Secret Garden Radio’ format of intense romantic classic hit music, adding celebrity interviews focused on relationship topics.
SADAT X & WILLIAM BROUGHT A LOVE OF WINE TO HIP-HOP Wine and hip-hop are not exactly two things you usual see married to together. But under the radar, rap legend Sadat X (of New Rochelle Hip-Hop Legends Brand Nubian) and his producer, Will Tell, have been celebrating a more homegrown love of wine since 2009, when they launched their online show “True Wine Connoisseurs.” Yeah that’s right you heard me the Wild Cowboy who rapped about his homeboy stealing a pair of sneakers, despite teh fact he hid them behind his speakers in the group’s classic cautious crack tale, ‘Slow Down,’ is now giving you the f’up factor of the latest wines.
Granted, True Wine Connoisseur is not the place to go for well-researched varietal breakdowns or rigorous tasting notes. But what Sadat X lacks in expertise he makes up for in unbridled enthusiasm, and it’s fun to see a couple of guys getting into wine— and gradually becoming more informed as they go along—without any forced pretension. Some reviews turn into impromptu ciphers, while others include hilariously chaotic trips to tasting rooms. There may not be two less likely tutors than Sadat X and his producer, Will Tell. The oenophiles have been working their particular brand of outrageous wine talk and hip-hop music on the web show for five years. You can still catch the clips of previous shows on YouTube and by following Sadat on Instagram @SadatXWine.
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
CASE
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
Westchester County is bubbling over with musical gems. This two-time Grammy Award nominee, was discovered by Hip-Hop Mogul Russell Simmons who found him worthy of taking a risk, subsequently signing him to Def Jam Records. Prior to getting signed Case co-wrote and sang background for artists like Al B Sure, Usher, and Christopher Williams. In 1996, when the Industry was ripe with new sounds and experimentation, singer, songwriter, and producer Case Woodard rolled out the smash hit, “Touch me, Tease me” ft Mary J Blige and Foxy Brown premiering on “The Nutty Professor” soundtrack. The Gold single sent shivers throughout the music world hitting #4 on R&B Songs and #14 on Billboard top 100. It also crossed international cultural barriers climbing charts in the UK. The debut album self titled “Case” has heavy-hitter production from Prince Charles Alexander Joseph “Jo-Jo” Brim Terence Dudley Christopher “Roc Head” Kellam Kenny “K-Smoove” Kornegay (exec.) James “Jimmy” Maynes Kevin “Big Kev” McDaniel and Darryl “88” Young. A few years later Case followed up with the 1999 release of “Personal Conversations”. The album went Gold, featuring songs that took artistic liberty and freedom thematically speak on subjects like marriage. “Happily Ever After” the video— featured Beyoncé as Case’s love interest at a time where some would arguably say she’d just began budding with promise. Def Jam, wanting to expand, had its heart set on the R&B market. In order to corner it they opened Def Soul in 2001— releasing Case as it’s first influencer. His third album “Open Letter” quickly saturated the market with the number #1 hit single “Missing You”. Simultaneously, he had another smash hit on Ja-Rule’s album titled “Living It Up” which was released as a single from the album “Pain Is Love”. Open Letter went on to earn Case his first Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance (“Missing You”) he also received another nomination for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (“Livin’ It Up”). Case has received incredible success with his soundtrack singles. Some of the most popular titles are “Touch Me Tease Me” (Nutty Professor), “Faded Pictures” (Rush Hour), “Best Man I Can Be” (The Best Man),”Missing You” (Nutty Professor II), “Shoulda Known Betta” featuring Ghostface (Johnson Family Vacation) After all the accoutrements life offered Case he took some time underground and didn’t resurface until 2008— on yet another soundtrack for Tyler Perry’s “Meet The Browns. During the years of 2009 to 2018 Case went on to release 4 additional studio albums: The Rose Experience (2009) Here, My Love (2010) Heaven’s Door (2015) Therapy (2018) It must be both liberating and gratifying to know that the very songs that catapulted your career can still move a crowd right next to your new material. “Happily Ever After” has remained one of the quintessential wedding songs for two decades. Case help restructure a sound that was coming out of that era melodically. It helped him to dance on uncharted territory and showcase all of his incredible talents. In between music Case has since gotten married to the mother of his third child. He has been living in Atlanta, relocating from New York to be near his other two children. Although he has moved, his legacy remains intact as one of the most celebrated incredibly talented artist to do it from Money Earnin Mount Vernon, NY! Follow everything Case on social media: Instagram : @iam_case Twitter : @Case_Music
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STEPHANIE MILLS VANESSA WILLIAMS BY AJ WOODSON
BY AJ WOODSON
If you make a list of singers and entertainers that have embodied a wealth of accomplishments for half of a century that are still producing timeless works and garnering achievements, you will have an exclusive group of individuals that have made indelible marks throughout their career. One it would be a short list and two, longtime Mount Vernon resident Stephanie Mills would be on that list. From her start at Harlem’s Apollo Theatre at the early age of 9-years-old, opening for acts including, The Isley Brothers and James Brown, through her 1975 debut as Dorothy in the Broadway musical hit, “The Wiz”, to her 1980 Grammywinning R&B smash, “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” to being featured on Dreamin with Fat Joe & Remy Ma, in 2017, Ms. Mills has proven she has that staying power. Stephanie Dorthea Mills has been a consummate performer her entire career. “Fat Joe’s wife and I have the same hairdresser, so she came to do my hair and said ‘Fat Joe loves you, and he has this song he wants you to do,’ and I was like, ‘Ok,’” The First Lady of R&B said in a 2017 Singersroom.com interview. “I called him up and went to the studio and did the hook for it and that’s how that came about. I love Fat Joe, and I love Remy Ma.” There’s no place like being “home” on a stage for actress Stephanie Mills, who became a household name more than 40 years ago by playing Dorothy in the original Broadway production of “The Wiz,” in which she sang the anthem, “Home.” In 2015, Mills was cast as Aunt Em in the NBC live musical production of The Wiz, forty years after her initial Broadway run in the show. The song “Home” from the show later became a Number 1 U.S. R&B hit for Mills and her signature song. During the 1980s, Mills scored five Number 1 R&B hits, including “Home”, “I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love”, “I Feel Good All Over”, “(You’re Puttin’) A Rush on Me” and “Something in the Way (You Make Me Feel)”. Mills won a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her song “Never Knew Love Like This Before” in 1981. Stephanie has recently been outspoken about her frustration with police brutality, and encouraging love and mutual respect in the black community with her non-profit organization, “Love Your Worth.” She has been blacklisted for her outspokenness regarding injustice but remains unafraid to organize against injustice. “Its awful, our beautiful Black Men just being shot down...” she said on Circle of Sisters TV. Stephanie Mills has one of the most powerful voices in soul music history now she uses it to speak up and encouraging others to speak up against injustice.
Singer, actress, and fashion designer, Vanessa Williams gained recognition when she made history as the first African-American to receive the Miss America title when she was crowned Miss America 1984 in 1983. However, a scandal arose the following year when, a few weeks prior to the end of her reign, Williams learned that Penthouse would be publishing unauthorized nude photographs of her in an upcoming issue. Amid growing media controversy and scrutiny, Williams resigned as Miss America in July 1984 (under pressure from the Miss America Organization), and was replaced by first runner-up Miss New Jersey Suzette Charles. Thirty-two years later, Miss America CEO Sam Haskell offered her a public apology (during the Miss America 2016 pageant) for the events of 1984. But Vanessa Lynn Williams who grew up in Elmsford and now resides in Chappaqua would not let the scandal hold her back and she persevered to become a successful singer and actress. In 1988, she released her debut studio album The Right Stuff whose title single saw moderate success before “Dreamin’” peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in the United States in 1989. With her second and third studio albums, The Comfort Zone (1991) and The Sweetest Days (1994), she saw continued commercial success and received multiple Grammy Award nominations - this included her number-one hit (in early 1992) and signature song, “Save the Best for Last”, which she performed live at the 1993 Grammy Awards ceremonies. Her recent studio albums include Everlasting Love (2005) and The Real Thing (2009). As an actress, Williams enjoyed success on both stage and screen, receiving an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her portrayal of Teri Joseph in the film Soul Food (1997). Her best-known television roles are that of Wilhelmina Slater on Ugly Betty (2006–10), for which she was nominated three times for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, and Renee Perry on Desperate Housewives (2010–12). Vanessa Williams, 56, truly does it all! Since winning the Miss America title in 1983, she has taken on acting roles, a singing career, multiple philanthropic ventures, and even clothing design. Not to mention, she’s also a mother of four! “I’ve had that career, where every time I’ve had an accomplishment, people would say, ‘Oh, I didn’t know she could do that.’” She added in an August 2019 Hollywoodlife.com interview, that starring in Kiss Of The Spider Woman on Broadway in 1994 was another highlight, especially because “people that only knew me as a recording artist and a pop star did not know my theater background.” Vanessa Williams has been in the entertainment industry since 1983 and continues to land major roles! This Westchester living legend is the epitome of perseverance and can teach a lesson or two on longevity.
LOUIS FARRAKHAN - THE CHARMER FRANK SCHIFFMAN - THE APOLLO BY DAMON K JONES
It was lower Roxbury, Boston, the mid1950s. Belafonte’s Caribbean sound was breaking big-time, but in the neighborhood - remembers Daisy Voigt, who in those days wrote a teen column under the name Dizzy Dame Daisy - The Charmer held sway. Everybody also knew him as Gene Walcott, the musical pride of the West Indian immigrant community served by the Boston Graphic weekly newspaper. In coming years, he would become more imfamously known The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. The calypso period isn’t a a much publicized part of the Honorable Minister’s resume but those early years. years help to illuminate his personality. Minister Farrakhan (born Louis Eugene Walcott) always wanted to be a musician. The man has been drawing -- and pleasing -- crowds since the age of 16, as both a calypso singer and a classical violinist. He even released a lively recording in the ‘80s that represented a reaffirmation of his calypso roots Minister Farrakhan has been in the spotlight since being a teenager when he plaid on “Ted Mack Amateur Hour” in 1949. His calypso styles song “A White Man’s Heaven Is a Black Man’s Hell,” released in the late 1950s, was known throughout the black power movement. In 1965, after Minister Farrakhan was promoted to the National Representative of the Hon. Elijah Muhammad he relocated to Mosque No. 7 in Harlem, and resided in New Rochelle. He made history in 1995 with one of the most successful Marches on the Washington Mall; the Million Man March. Minister Farrakhan was inspired to call the March out of his concern over the negative image of Black men perpetuated by the media and movie industries, which focused on drugs and gang violence. The Million Man March established October 16 as a Holy Day of Atonement, Reconciliation, and Responsibility. In April 2012, he played to a packed audience at the Multipurpose Centre auditorium, according to the Antigua Observer. A culmination of a Caribbean tour by the Nation of Islam (NOI) leader, including visits to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados. The tour by Farrakhan had as its theme the “Power of Caribbean Unity and Black Economics.”
One of the most facinating things we learned while putting this issue together was The World Famous Apollo Theater was founded by a white jewish man from Mount Vernon. Harlem’s Apollo Theater was once a whitesonly burlesque house, until the city shut down the circuit in 1934. That’s when Mount Vernon’s Frank Schiffman, a promoter specializing in what was then called “race music,” brought the place.
He recruited young talents like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, James Brown, and Billie Holiday—many of whom got their start at the Apollo’s famous “Amateur Night,” at which only those who received the audience’s approval were invited back to perform. In those days, 125th Street for all its theatrical glamour was hospitable to blacks as performers but not welcoming to African-American as members of the audience. But Mr. Schiffman believed it would be wise — and also good business — to welcome anyone who cared to buy a ticket. The formula worked, and worked well. The Apollo is also where the Civil Rights movement dawned and flourished. The Apollo and activism go hand-in-hand. For artists like Nina Simone and Sam Cooke, the theater became a safe haven where they could express themselves. Several years after it opened, the Apollo held a benefit for the Scottsboro Boys — nine African-Americans jailed for allegedly raping two white women on a train in Alabama in 1931. The benefit raised money for teens’ legal defense. The Apollo also served as a sanctuary for artists of the Harlem renaissance that gave rise to a sense of black nationalism, which became the cornerstone of the Civil Rights movement. In addition to The Apollo being the place ‘Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made’ also played host to one of the biggest freedom fighters of our lifetime, South African president Nelson Mandela. Two decades later, the theater welcomed America’s first black president, Barack Obama.
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8 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC ISSUE
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
GREENBURGH’S OWN ATLANTIC STARR BY AJ WOODSON
into lyrics again. Into meaningful stuff, like loving one another, helping people and helping your family not just being baby mommies and baby daddies. This is an important record, it’s more than just music. This is my life is a message to the youth.” This is my life And I refuse to waste it You only get one I’m going to do something great I can taste it You only get one You only get one
Five of the original nine members of Atlantic Starr – From left: Jonathan Lewis, Davis Lewis, Sharon Bryant, Wayne Lewis, Porter Carroll, Jr., all Greenburgh natives – gathered at Greenburgh Town Hall on Monday, June 5, 2017 being honored; the town renamed a section of Old Tarrytown Road, “Atlantic Starr Way.” [Black Westchester]
Iworking n an era where your favorite recording artists are on ‘where are they now specials’ at a car wash or desperately trying to stay relevant via the latest reality television show, a local group made good, kept God first and managed to stay relevant for over five decades without selling their souls or dumbing down their sound to become superstars. While never achieving supergroup status, despite their talent, they were one of the most consistently successful and underrated groups of their era. The industry may not recognize them as superstars because they did it their way, but to the black community, they are and always were superstars and to Westchester they are living legends. If youhaven’t guess yet, I’m talking about the Ambassadors from the town of Greenburgh... Atlantic Starr. The group who met in Woodlands High School and grew up together, started out as a nine-member group that was a merger of three separate Woodlands High School student bands: Newban, Unchained Youth, and Exact Change. The roster has changed over the years but they continue to tour and do spot dates in the States and overseas, under the leadership and artistry of the Lewis brothers, the core songwriters of the group. The Atlantic Starr story is an authentic Greenburgh story of nine youth, who came together and figured out how to go from local musicians to international recording artists who the world would come to love. Each member was raised in “the heart of Fairview” including Gibson, Longdale, Manhattan, Maple, Prospect, Riverdale, Warren Avenues, Dobbs Ferry, Midway, North and Tarrytown Roads. They were all friends, neighbors, school mates, brothers and graduates of Woodlands High School during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. The original group successfully performed together for more than two decades. The original lineup included: Clifford Archer, Sharon Bryant (who was later replaced by Barbara Weathers), Porter Carroll, Jr., Koran Daniels, David Lewis, Jonathan Lewis, Wayne Lewis, Joseph Phillips, William Sudderth, and just prior to adopting the official name, Atlantic Starr, Duke Jones who was a key band member and instrumental in the development of the group. “I grew up around these brothers, Greenburgh superstars, I used to hang with their younger brother and I didn’t even know they were Atlantic Starr,” Black Westchester Publisher Damon K. Jones says jokingly as he reminisces. “My mother was playing their music at home and I’m hanging with Chris and I’m always used to seeing these guys. I didn’t know it was them until the video came out and I was like yo, whoa, wait a minute.” In 2017, the group was still making music and dropped a new CD titled, ‘Metamorphosis’ and received one of the biggest honors a group can receive from their hometown. On Monday, June 5, 2017 the Town of Greenburgh honored the chart-topping R&B group by renaming a section of Old Tarrytown Road — between Knollwood Road and Hillside Avenue — Atlantic Starr Way. Wayne and Jonathan appeared on Episode 119 of the People Before Politics Show, Sunday, April 2, 2017. I must admit it may have been one of my favorite interviews we’ve done on the now 5-year-old radio show. What was supposed to be an interview with some local legends promoting their new album and release party at the Crown Plaza Hotel in White Plains quickly turned into so much more. Wayne who did most of the talking quickly showed unlike a lot of artists to be knowledgeable on much more than his lyrics, the music business and who did what or said what to who on the latest celebrity based “reality” shows. He began to express his love for reaching and teaching the youth, that they can be so much more than what they see on TV. Showing them how to write about more than sexy women, guns and drugs. We talked about local politics, the education or lack thereof in the urban cities. How the system was set up for our youth to fail or go to jail. He actually fit in on our show than some politicians who were elected to have these conversations and candidates running for office. Yeah, we all love Secret Lover, Always and Silver Shadow, but what most impressed me was a group who managed not to lose their identity. Even five decades later they were not about to just play it safe and do what everyone else is doing. You can hear that on ‘This Is My Life’ off their latest music offering, ‘Metamorphosis‘ (a very apropos title, I must say). While they have grown and changed a little with the times they somehow managed not to disturb the integrity of the Atlantic Starr sound we’ve come to love all these years. “We’re not just balladeers kicking love songs, we’re talking about issues,” Wayne shares on PBP Radio discussing the new album in 2017. “These songs and lyrics, we’ve metamorphosized into something different. It’s still song form that makes it pop or makes it digestible but at the same time, I wanted to gear the young black people
The band continued to tour everywhere from across the United States, Singapore, England, Germany and Japan, but, their foundation had always been, and will always be Greenburgh. “Greenburgh is the origin,” Jonathan Lewis tells BW. “It’s the beginning. It’s where the chemistry is. We really put Greenburgh on the map.” “Being a young person in Greenburgh, having you guys do what you do, gave us hope,” Damon shared with the Lewis brothers. To hear the Atlantic Starr interview on PBP Radio in its entirety, go to www. BlackWestchester.com and click on the radio tab, and scroll down to Episode 119.
WRITER/PRODUCER TURONE LEWIS THE NEXT GENERATION BY AJ WOODSON
I first met Turone Lewis through his cousin Brain Marable who was a business partner and associate of mine. I worked with Brian’s Conscious Brothers Clothing line and opened up a shop in Mart 125 in Harlem. A few years later Brian and I would be involved in a music production team with included his cousin Turone. Shortly after meeting Turone I found out he was the nephew of Jonathan, Wayne and David Lewis of the group Atlantic Starr. I was always impressed with Turone’s music production and knowledge of music history, so I thought it was only fiting to include him in our Westchester Music Edition. You might not know the name but he is the next generation of the very talented Lewis family from Greenburgh. Much like his talented uncles, he has been writing and producing for years. “I was taught how to count bars and measures by my Uncle Jonathan and than it was on from there,” Turone shares with Black Westchester. “Actually he’s a founding member of the group Atlantic Starr along with two other uncles and his younger brothers Wayne and David Lewis. Those guys were my biggest influences growing up. I would ask could I go to the studio, literally asking each one until one said yes. Those moments changed, shaped, and molded my life.” Musical influences include Stevie Wonder, Charlie Wilson Of The Gap Band, Michael Jackson, Prince, Donny Hathaway, and another relative, his Great Uncle Belton Evans, his grandmother’s younger brother, and also an Uncle to the Lewis Brothers as well. Belton was a jazz musician who played drums for the likes of Count Bassie Band, King Curtis, Aretha Franklin, Brooke Benton to name a few. “So I didn’t choose music, it actually chose me,” Turone continues. “Listening to Atlantic Starr demos in the next room, while I got ready for bed and school the next day, or at the studio listening to the finish product was amazing. At 6-years-old I knew exactly what I wanted to be and what I wanted to do. My mom took me to piano lessons and I had my first recital with a lady name Ms. Macover, who gave me free lessons and previously taught my uncles for free as well. Such a sweet lady, such a blessing. Only thing was I never finished because of reasons out of my control.” Through the years Turone developed his craft, and was in and out of local groups. The Young Boy MC’s, Boys Next Door, 3 Different Flavas, and later on a group called The Outsiddas. “I’m actually going to put out some of the work I did with the Outsiddas, some of my best work. When I was wit 3DF we did mega shows with the top Rap acts of the early 90’s. Fat Joe, Redman, Naughty By Nature, Das Efx, Nice N Smooth you name it. E Man Boogie a Promoter out of Spring Valley came looking for us cause he heard we was tearing shows down. At that time we were shopping our demo, and we caught the ear of a producer out of Mount Vernon name Tony Dofat, best known for some of Heavy D’s best hits and also Diddy’s Making The Band Show on MTV back in the early 2000’s. He liked us but he really liked me and wanted to sign me as a solo artist.” Being loyal to his group, he passed up on the solo deal, but has often wonders if that was the right move.Leaving him with the dreaded what if questions. “Sometimes I wonder what could of happen,” Turone shares. “We also worked with Slick Rick’s DJ Vance Wright out of New Rochelle, but that was short lived, he wanted creative control. We also was working toward a solo deal, but that never happened as well. I worked on a few songs with Atlantic Starr, an independent project that never made the album. I kept pushing and I’m working towards putting out some projects, real soon in about a month or so.” Be on the look out for Turone Lewis if you like that raw essence, a mixture of Hip Hop, Soul and R&B, check out his upcoming projects. Black Westchester proudly spotlights Turone Lewis, the next generation of the Lewis family.
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
WESTCHESTER LEGENDS
BLACK WESTCHESTER 9
ELLA FITZGERALD - SCHOOL STREET BLUES
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
“Oh Ella...” the name even rolls of the tongue eloquently. What the First Lady of Song did for music in the early 20’s has allowed us to still bow at the mere mention of her name 100 years later. How did she end up on School St. you ask?? Well, after her father William and Mother Temperance (Tempie) went their separate ways Ella and her mother migrated to Yonkers to a mostly mixed neighborhood. She made friends easily because she was very personable and kind but it’s wasn’t to be taken taken for weakness. Ella moonlighted as a runner for local gamblers, socially conscious yet unruly enough to pick up bets and drop off the cash without fear. This fed her tomboy-ish demeanor. It’s also gave her the hutzpah needed to navigate the predominantly testosterone fueled industry. Jazz and Blues was so much more than performances at smoke filled speakeasies with corset drawn foxes strutting on stages. It was a sophisticated harmonic sound that became immortal and defined an entire era called “The Jazz Age”. New York, became the quintessential melting pot for budding Jazz stars. What better place than Yonkers NY.
NINA SIMONE
BY AJ WOODSON
Mount Vernon’s Nina Simone, who would’ve celebrated her 86th birthday this year, was known for using her musical platform to speak out. “I think women play a major part in opening the doors for better understanding around the world,” the “Strange Fruit” songstress once said. Though she chose to keep her personal life shrouded in secrecy, these facts grant VIP access into a life well-lived and the music that still lives on. At the age of 12, Simone refused to play at a church revival because her parents had to sit at the back of the hall. From then on, Simone used her art to take a stand. Many of her songs in the ‘60s, including “Mississippi Goddamn,” “Why (The King of Love Is Dead),” and “Young, Gifted and Black,” addressed the rampant racial injustices of that era. As one can imagine, her activism wasn’t always welcome. Her popularity diminished; venues didn’t invite her to perform, and radio stations didn’t play her songs. But she pressed on—even after the Civil Rights Movement. In 1997, Simone told Interview Magazine that she addressed her songs to the third world. In her own words: “I’m a real rebel with a cause.” “Mississippi Goddam,” her 1964 anthem, only took her 20 minutes to an hour to write, according to legend—but it made an impact that still stands the test of time. When she wrote it, Simone had been fed up with the country’s racial unrest. Medger Evers, a Mississippi-born civil rights activist, was assassinated in his home state in 1963. That same year, the Ku Klux Klan bombed a Birmingham Baptist church and as a result, four young black girls were killed. Simone took to her notebook and piano to express her sentiments.
It molded her whisper to scat vocals that ranged in songs of heartache, preserverance, and romance and captivated the entire globe. In the 20’s... to have won 13 Grammy awards, and sold over 40 million albums was unheard of. Especially for an African American— and, a woman at that! With a face that held the image of a saint and voice that could imitate the instrument in a 12 peice orchestra, It’s no surprise all the jazz greats, from Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Sinatra, Dizzy Gillespie had the honor of working with her. She packed venues worldwide to the boarders with a sultry voice that drew you close as a baby suckling from its mother. “Oh no... They can’t take that away from me” fittingly describes her unmatched legacy. The equivalency present day would by far surpass all of the modern day greats combined. There is no one that could even come close. Oh Ella... *Do yourself a favor and got to YouTube and search “Non Stop Ella 2.5 hrs Ella Fitzgerald and just get in the car and drive* .... thank me later
“Alabama’s gotten me so upset/Tennessee made me lose my rest/And everybody knows about Mississippi Goddam,” she sang. Some say that the song was banned in Southern radio stations because “goddam” was in the title. But others argue that the subject matter is what caused the stations to return the records cracked in half. Despite the fact Nina released over 40 albums during her decades-spanning career including studio albums, live versions, and compilations, and scored 15 Grammy nominations, she never had a number one hit. She used her style to make a statement - Head wraps, bold jewelry, and floor-skimming sheaths were all part of Simone’s stylish rotation. You’ve probably heard her music in recent hits. Rihanna sang a few verses of Simone’s “Do What You Gotta Do” on Kanye West’s The Life of Pablo. He’s clearly a superfan: “Blood on the Leaves” and his duet with Jay Z, “New Day,” feature Simone samples as well, along with Lil’ Wayne’s “Dontgetit,” Common’s “Misunderstood” and a host of other tracks. Nina Simone was sampled in 285 songs, there have been 249 covers and 19 remixes. Below is a brief list of some of the artists who sampled Nina. FOUR WOMEN (1966) - Was sampled in 8 songs The Story of O.J. by Jay-Z (2017) - Multiple Elements For Women by Reflection Eternal (2000) - Vocals / Lyrics Stronger by Prodigy (2011) - Multiple Elements STRANGE FRUIT (1965) - Was sampled in 8 songs Blood on the Leaves by Kanye West (2013) - Multiple Elements Celebrate by Cassidy feat. John Legend (2007) - Vocals / Lyrics DO WHAT YOU GOTTA DO (1968) - Was sampled in 4 songs Famous by Kanye West feat. Rihanna and Swizz Beatz (2016) - Vocals / Lyrics Wanksta by 50 Cent (2002) - Vocals / Lyrics Do by Keith Murray (2007) - Multiple Elements FEELING GOOD (1965) - Was sampled in 65 songs New Day by Jay-Z and Kanye West (2011) - Vocals / Lyrics Bad News by 50 Cent feat. G-Unit (2002) - Multiple Elements Birds Flying High by Lil Wayne and Juelz Santana (2007) - Vocals / Lyrics About You by Mary J. Blige feat. will.i.am (2005) - Multiple Elements New Life (Intro) by AZ (1998) - Vocals / Lyrics New Life by Ice-T (2006) - Vocals / Lyrics BALTIMORE (1978) - Was sampled in 9 songs Caught Their Eyes by Jay-Z feat. Frank Ocean (2017) - Multiple Elements The Ocean by The Game ft. Dr. Dre and Busta Rhymes (2011) - Multiple Elements L.I.F.E.by Lone Catalysts (2006) - Hook / Riff DON’T LET ME BE MISUNDERSTOOD (1964) - Was sampled in 35 songs DontGetIt by Lil Wayne (2008) - Multiple Elements Black Zombie by Nas (2002) - Multiple Elements DON’T LET ME BE MISUNDERSTOOD LIVE (1967) - Was sampled in 2 songs Misunderstood by Common feat. Bilal (2007) - Vocals / Lyrics Nina Revisited… A Tribute to Nina Simone was released along with the Netflix documentary in 2015. On the album, Lauryn Hill, Jazmine Sullivan, Usher, Alice Smith, and more paid tribute to the legend by performing covers of 16 of her most famous tracks.
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10 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
Opportunity – Marketing The Wall Street Journal called WVOX and WVIP "America's Great Community Stations!" And now as the last remaining, true community stations in Westchester ... we're adding to our Marketing and Advertising Departments with Immediate Openings for highly-motivated and dynamic Advertising Account Executives ... perfect opportunities for personable, confident and articulate individuals who know and love Westchester as we do ... where you make your own hours ... as a full or part time Advertising and Marketing Executive. Call our station President David O'Shaughnessy and come in for a tour of our modern studios in New Rochelle. Hudson Westchester Radio Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. David O’Shaughnessy 914-636-1460 David@WVOX.com
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BLACKWESTCHESTER.COM
BLACK WESTCHESTER 11
JEFF REDD - A QUIET STORM
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
A “Quiet Storm” is dual in nature. You never see a Tsunami coming. When it does it redesigns everything it touches. When Jeff Redd came into the industry not only did he transform the sound we were used to, he became a symbol of Rhythm & Blues for next 30 years. While most of us were intertwined in the woes of teenage angst, at 17 he was preparing to rhapsodize our hearts and ears with his signature sound. André Harrell Of Uptown Records saw the musical connoisseur and immediately signed him. Jeff released his debut album in 1990 befittingly titled “Quiet Storm”. He had major producers such as Devante Swing from Jodeci, Timmy Allen as well as The Untouchables Dave “Jam” Hall and Eddie F equally tap into our cutaneous senses. I remember exactly where I was when I first heard “I found lovin”. I was on the thunderbolt ride at Playland and almost caught whiplash new jack swinging to the mellifluous voice perforating the speakers. In 1991, “You called and told me” from the “Strictly Business” soundtrack sent shockwaves through the atmosphere. It captivated us in a way that ensured its stay in musical history. Jeff not only had his own talent as a singer/songwriter/ performer, but also an ear for musicians. As the universe would have it, while tracing his own triumphant rise, non other than the incredible Cleopatra of soul Mary J Blige fell into his hands. He played a huge part in getting her to André Harrell and the world knows what happened next.
Shortly after, he went on to become an A&R executive at MCA records working with greats like K-Ci & Jojo and the incomparable Regina Bell. To this day, Jeff Redd can Conan’s an audience with laser like precision. I first met him at a Gala to honor Mary J Blige. The sophisticated gent took to the stage for the tribute in classic style still professional still poised, still stands out from the rest, it’s important to honor that distinction from the artist of today. I had the privilege of interviewing him, Black Westchester it’s an honor to introduce to you, the masterfully talented Mr. Jeff Redd. WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF MUSIC BEGAN AND WHO INFLUENCED YOU?? I remember when I was very young my father would come home from work and ask my sister Jackie and I to sing a song by CheChe and Pepe, “I Know I’m In Love” for him. We would get together in the living room, singing and dancing. My father passed away when I was 8 years old and music became even more a place of happiness for me. Then one evening when I was 10, our neighbor took us to see James Brown at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, and that was the moment I knew what I wanted do for the rest of my life. Was anyone in your family musically inclined?? We grew up in a household where music was always playing. My father sang and he actually wrote a song for Lena Horne. Not sure what happened to it but I remembered seeing the sheet music. My parents loved to listen to some of the greatest R&B, Gospel and Blues artists of their day, but I was the one who had the real passion for singing. My mother Mary Redd knew I was gifted, but she feared that if I got into the music industry, I would end addicted to drugs. For that reason, I had to wait until I was 18 to pursue a music career. I stayed away from drugs, and was able to prosper in my career, thanks to what my mother instilled in me.
We as a people have entered a crucial moment in time. We are witnessing so much devastation, depression and depravation. It is all around us, on the news, online and in the streets. We are losing our young people to violence and there is so much suffering. That is the stuff we end up seeing online and if you constantly feast on it, you can be overcome by it all. On the other hand, there are amazing things happening all around us. Moments that can have a positive impact upon us. Wonderful things transpiring especially amongst our young people. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with the students and faculty of Thornton High School where there is a growing Arts, Gifted and Talented Educational Program. I was so inspired by their stories and able to witness firsthand that our young people are getting ready to lead the way. All that to say, I want to share and showcase the positive narrative of the city of Mount Vernon, and encourage others to do the same. If we can all do our part by making a consistent, conscious effort to share a positive word, then we will begin to see things change for the better. WHO DO YOU LISTEN TO CURRENTLY?? I listen to a host of new music and a wide variety of it. This is because I am still creating and writing new music all the time. I find myself gravitating to music that makes people feel alive and happy like Kirk Franklin’s “Love Theory”. And of course, still find myself loving gifted, soul-filled artists like PJ Morton, Gregory Porter and legends like Teddy Pendergrass and Marvin Gaye. And also because I have four sons I may end up listening to some of their favorites that rotate on stations like HOT 97. You’ve got to love Cardi B! She’s reigning on all the charts right now.
WHO WOULD YOU CHOICE TO DO A COMPILATION? I am well known for my contribution to the 90s and it just so happens that I am currently WHAT WAS THE GAME CHANGING MOMENT FOR YOUR CAREER? discussing a tour with some of my other fellow artists from that era. The 90s was such I was discovered by Andre Harrell of Uptown Records one evening after a performance a great time for music and in addition, we may be pulling in some current artists as well. at the Palace in New Rochelle. He offered me recording contract and I spent the next two years creating my first album. I began touring and performing and had the amazing WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? opportunity of being on Soul Train, Showtime at the Apollo and other national television I am most proud of my four sons, Jeffrey, Jai, Jaie and Jadon. I am grateful to God that shows. I would say the game changing moment that changed my life forever was when I have been blessed to witness their growth and evolution as young men. It’s definitely my song, “You Called and Told Me” was added to the Strictly Business soundtrack. Eve- challenging being a parent, however I am thankful that I have had the life-changing oprywhere I go, to this day, people tell me how much they love the song. It’s unbelievable! I portunity to become a father. wake up almost every day to Instagram messages with people all over the world sharing their song tributes. I think there may even be a “You Called and Told Me Challenge”. I IF YOU COULD TELL YOUNG JEFF REDD ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WHAT feel truly blessed and humbled by all of the joy the music brings to people. WOULD IT BE?? For those who don’t know you actually discover Mary J Blige! Can you explain how that I would tell young Jeff Redd to continue to have an open heart and help other who are happened? Being true music is a feeling, what did you “feel” when you first heard her? in need. He should never forget God as his source and he should understand that there Even though I was signed to Uptown, I initially still kept my job at General Motors in Tar- will be challenges but they are only there to build his character. rytown, New York. I worked with Mary’s step father, Little Jimmy. He gave me a demo What advice can you give to anyone breaking into the music industry now? tape of her singing an Anita Baker song that she recorded at the mall in White Plains. I I would tell anyone breaking into the industry to learn the business of music. It is excould feel the pain, strength and authentic talent she possessed in just that one song. tremely important to understand contracts, marketing, finance and much more. It is also I knew that she was very talented. I ended up handing the tape to my management so imperative that they continue to grow and expand their knowledge of their craft and crethey could give to Andre. Andre then went to meet Mary at her home in Yonkers and ate good relationships inside and outside of the music industry. subsequently offered her a deal. WHAT’S NEXT FOR JEFF REDD? CAN YOU TELL US HOW YOU DISCOVERED MARY J. BLIGE. BEING TRUE There are so many things scheduled on the horizon but I am immediately focused on new MUSIC IS A FEELING, WHAT DID YOU “FEEL” WHEN YOU FIRST HEARD HER? music, an expansion of the Jeff Redd Brand, education and philanthropy. Next month on Even though I was signed to Uptown, I initially still kept my job at General Motors in Tar- October 19th, I will be hosting a fundraiser for Thornton High School which will reveal rytown, New York. I worked with Mary’s step father, Little Jimmy. He gave me a demo the new state of the art auditorium to be named after Phylicia Rashad. I am excited by tape of her singing an Anita Baker song that she recorded at the mall in White Plains. I all the things that are in development and looking forward to being able to launch them could feel the pain, strength and authentic talent she possessed in just that one song. in the near future. I knew that she was very talented. I ended up handing the tape to my management so they could give to Andre. Andre then went to meet Mary at her home in Yonkers and What a gem! Nestled right here in Westchester. We are looking forward to all Jeff Redd subsequently offered her a deal. does and salute all he has done. Follow all things Jeff Redd on social media: WHAT TRANSPIRED IN LIFE TO MAKE YOU ADAPT SUCH A POSITIVE MINDSET? Instagram: @TheRealJeffRedd and Facebook: @JeffRedd
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12 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
REMEMBERING HEAVY D BY AJ WOODSON
You cannot have a discussion about music from the 914 without including the Overweight Lover, Hip-Hop legend Heavy D. During the course of his 25-plus year career, the larger than life entertainer was a superstar in every sense of the word. As the first group on Andre Harrell’s Uptown Records, Hev helped kick off a new brand of Hip-Hop Soul that would become known as New Jack Swing. Before the success of acts like Guy, Mary J. Blige and Jodeci, it was Heavy D that was the cornerstone of Uptown Records. In fact rapper turned Record Executive Andre Harrell departed from Def Jam and launched Uptown largely off the potential of Heavy D.Hev was instrumental in the structure of the Uptown roster including getting Al B Sure a deal and getting Andre Harrel to hire Diddy as a intern He is the only rapper to have worked with both Michael Jackson - The King of Pop (Jam) and his sister Janet - Ms. Jackson is ya nasty (Alright) - two of the most influential entertainers of the modern era. He traded verses with both Biggie and Tupac over a bubbly sample of Barry White’s ‘You’re The One I Need,’ on Grand Puba’s “Let’s Get It On,” and went on to performing the the theme song for In Living Color. In the mid 90’s he became the President of Uptown Records. Then he caught the acting bug and went to collect countess credits for his contributions in both television and film.
Get up, party people, listen to this rap ‘Cause I’m about to go down and put my town on the map MC Heavy D, delighted you’ll be learnin About the place where I rest, Moneyearnin’ Mount Vernon The year was 1985 when Heavy D walked into Rush Management without an appointment in hopes of walking out with a record deal. Russell Simmon wasn’t interested but he caught the attention of Andre Harrell. Shortly after Harrell left Def Jams, launched his own label and his first order of business was to sign Heavy D. He put both Mount Vernon and Uptown Records on the map. Heavy D & the Boyz were the first group signed to Uptown Records, with Heavy D as the frontman and only rapper. Eddie F was his business partner in the group, DJ, and one of the producers. The other two members, T-Roy and G-Wiz were the dancers. Their debut, Living Large, was released in 1987. The album was a commercial success; his sophomore endeavor, Big Tyme was a breakthrough that included four hits. “Trouble T. Roy” died at age 22 in a fall on July 15, 1990, in Indianapolis. Dixon’s death led to a tribute on the follow-up platinum album, Peaceful Journey. Pete Rock & CL Smooth created a tribute to Trouble T. Roy called “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” which is regarded as a hip-hop classic by everyone’s standards. Hev’s discography consist of five group albums; Living Large (1987), Big Tyme (1989), Peaceful Journey (1991), Blue Funk (1992) and Nuttin’ But Love (1994), followed by four solo albums; Waterbed Hev (1997), Heavy (1999), Vibes (2008) and Love Opus (2011). As an actor, Heavy D is perhaps best known for his role in the 1999 drama film The Cider House Rules, where he plays a migrant worker. Along with his castmates, he received a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for best cast in a motion picture. Filmography includes appearences in Who’s the Man? (1993), New Jersey Drive (1995),B*A*P*S (1997), The Deli (1997), The Cider House Rules (1999), Life (1999), Big Trouble (2002), Larceny (2004), Step Up (2006) and Tower Heist (2011) As well as television appearences in A Different World, Tales from the Crypt, Boston Public (2001), The Fresh Prince of Bel Air (1990), Bones Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, Law & Order: Special Victims Yes, Dear, Are We There Yet? (2011), In Living Color, Booker (1990) and recurring roles in Roc and Living Single. Hundreds gathered at Heavy D & The Boys Park (formerly known as Lorraine Park) to celebrate the life and legacy of Mount Vernon’s favorite son Dwight “Heavy D” Myers, Saturday, May 21, 2016. Andre Trenier, an emerging artist from the Bronx graced the walls with a mural in honor of local legend Heavy D and the Boyz. The mural was constructed in effort to remove graffiti and replace it with art to keep the community happy and beautified. The park is located at Lorraine Avenue and Willard Avenue in Mount Vernon and at a event coordinated by The Myers Foundation, which was founded by Heavy D’s mother, the mural was the center of attention.
A few months later the Mount Vernon Public Library hosted a very special reception in honor of the Dwight Arrington Myers Hip-Hop Collection housed at the Mount Vernon Public Library on Thursday, June 30, 2016. In honor of the hip-hop legend, the Mount Vernon Public Library has acquired a collection of books, music CD’s, DVD’s and multimedia materials that share the history of hip-hop and its global influence. “Hip Hop has transformed itself from its beginnings in the South Bronx to a cultural phenomenon.’ says, then Library Director Carolyn Karowski told Black Westchester. “We are honored to celebrate and remember the accomplishments of Heavy D, an awarded artist, and actor who called Mount Vernon his home.” GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Heavy D, died in Los Angeles, November 8, 2011 at the young age of 44. I can still remember getting to call from Shawn Montgomery, I was living in Atlanta at time, it was almost surreal. Although I had been affected but other Hip-Hop deaths like Biggie and Tupac, this was a cat I went to high school with who was where I was from. Although I knew his brother Floyd better in high school, we had a few classes together, I still couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I had just saw him on like a month earlier on the BET Awards and he looked good. After getting off the phone I turned on the TV and first saw the report of his death on TMZ and then everywhere else on the television of radio. Lt. Mark Rosen of the Beverly Hills police told the Associated Press that Heavy D died in a Los Angeles hospital, after collapsing at his condominium building. Rosen said Beverly Hills police officers were dispatched to Heavy D’s condominium building Tuesday morning after receiving a report of an unconscious person laying on the walkway of a building. They found Heavy D was conscious and communicative but had difficulty breathing and was transported to Cedars Sinai Medical Center, where he later died. I leave you with Hev’s word from one of his last interviews he did before he passed in Complex Magazine in November 2011; “When you create history you don’t know you’re doing it. I don’t care if somebody says, ‘We’re gonna make history.’ Bullshit. You don’t know you’re doing it. You don’t know that till later on. Ask anybody—the most important people that you admire, the books you read—they didn’t know. They were just going on passion and what they want to do, and following that thing. Everyone here is here for a reason. If you’re good at what you do, or great at what you do, it’s cause you’re passionate. Not because you wanna be the President of the United States or of the company. If that is your goal it probably won’t happen. But if you have passion, it’s gonna lead you right where you need to be. Just follow that little voice and those goosebumps and everything that happens along with it. Just follow it. Cause that is where your destiny lies. That is where the truth is. All I’m trying to do is follow my truth.”
ROBERT
PRISCO
VOTE
NOV
for COUNTY COURT JUDGE
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Zion Church ChristianEpiscopal Education Sunday
African Methodist
65 Lake Street, White Plains, NY 10604
ForHope...WorshipWithUs. September 15, 2019 YouMakeTheChoice...GOD MakesTheChange.
11:00 am Worship “Committed” Ephesians 2:10
Organizedin1827-TheOldestBlackChurchinWestchesterCounty,NewYork
Sunday, October 13, 2019 Quadrennial Theme Emphasis: 11:00 am Worship
Speaker:
Eric Alfonzo Smith II
Theme:
“The Freedom Church...
Refocusing On Our Purpose, Reviewing Our Practise, Retooling Our People, and Reaching Our Potential.”
The 6th International President of The Assembly of Christian Educators (ACE) Brenda L.G. Smith, Ed.D., LHD
General Secretary, Christian Education Department The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Frank -Williams, Jr. ExecutiveDirector-
Carolyn DuBois-White, Lucille Davis-Nall WhitePlainsYouthBureau
Co-Directors Mount Hope AME Zion Church - Christian Education Department
Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Senior Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Senior Pastor
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Global Missions Sunday
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14 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
COVER STORIES BW COVER STORY
THE QUEEN COMES HOME M
(Photo & Video Credit’s C L & P inc except for proclamation photo & hollywood star)
Mary who has received a total of 90 awards from 210 nominations for her music and acting career including winning nine Grammy Awards, six BET Awards - including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 BET Awards, June 12th, nine Billboard Music Awards, six Soul Train Music Awards, eight NAACP Image Award, two Oscars nominations and an MTV Video Music Award received yet another incredible surprise. After the show, Black Westchester honored her with a pair of Proclamations from Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Westchester County Executive George Latimer for the incredible work she has done throughout her career. Senator StewartCousins proclaimed August 28th Mary J. Blige Appreciation Day in the 35th Senatorial District which includes a portion of southern Westchester County, including all of Greenburgh and Scarsdale and parts of Yonkers, White Plains, and New Rochelle. In case it hasn’t become increasingly clear just how much she has Mary J. Blige after being presented proclamations at Sony Hall, done here’s a breakdown: August 28, 2019 [Cynthia Turnquest Jones/ Black Westchester]
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
usic is nebulous— it depends on who’s hands you put the mic or instrument in, what it will become. In this Queen’s hands, it’s transmuted Into over 75 million records sold worldwide. Only a unique kind of artistry can cross-cultural comfort zones over the decades and remain a legendary force. This year 2019 marks 25 years since the release of the “My Life” album who’s creative legacy alone deserves even higher recognition. The level of connection is unmistakable. Witnessing impassioned fans belting lyrics in a trancelike state highlights a mere morsel of its significance. Hailed by her followers as the musical Cleopatra, that album changed the trajectory of R&B and coined a new genre... Hip-Hop Soul. Pair that with the fireworks of the King - who only needs one mic - Mr. Half Man Half Amazing “NAS”, you have a Tour fit for Royalty. August 28th “The Royalty Tour” graced The Barclays Center in Brooklyn with brilliant top notes of our treasured tunes and ceremonial rhythms. Mary would begin the first line of the potent ensemble luxuriated in classic sounds and the crowd would take over with icy precision. Her edgy fashion stage presence and magnetic demeanor tapped into the audiences emotional and visual angles and did what it has always has— revel in the space of feeling, an authenticity impossible to ignore. No More Drama - 2001 Dance For Me - 2002 Love & Life - 2003 (Geffen) The Breakthrough - 2005 (Geffen) Reflections (A Retrospective) - 2006 (Geffen) Growing Pains - 2007 (Geffen) Stronger With Each Tear - 2009 (Geffen) My Life II...The Journey Continues (Act 1) - 2011 (Geffen) A Mary Christmas - 2013 (Verve) Think Like a Man Too - 2014 (BMG/ Epic/Sony Music) The London Session - 2014 (Capitol) Strength Of A Woman - 2017 (Capitol) Albeit arguably started her career arc has been synonymous with trials she’s overcome it also simultaneously exudes staying power and the sheer “Strength of a woman!” At one point she stated “I lost my gut, and my gift but I got it back!” and it shows. Last year, Mary received one of the highest honors, her very own star on The Hollywood Walk Of Fame. From her riveting Mudbound performance as a sharecroppers wife to the villainous protagonist who did her own stunts in “The Umbrella Academy” to landing a role on the hit series “Power” you simply can not box her in.Yet another peek into the life of Mary my team was able to capture a very loving personal moment. The reuniting of The Queen Of Hip Hop Soul and another King in Hip Hop “ DMX”. The embrace and reconnection was magical as both their eye weld up with tears. Only great things can come from this... and if your anything like us you are patiently waiting in tow! Congratulations to the Queen of Hip Hop Soul!
What’s the 411? - 1992 (Uptown/MCA) What’s the 411? Remix - 1993 (Uptown/MCA) My Life - 1994 (MCA) Share My World - 1997 (MCA) The Tour - 1998 (MCA) Mary - 1999 (MCA) Ballads (Mary J. Blige album) - 2000 (Universal Music Japan)
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BLACKWESTCHESTER.COM
BLACK WESTCHESTER 15
BW COVER STORY
BW NEW MUSIC REVIEW: KNOW - MARY J. BLIGE BY AJ WOODSON
You know, when hear the word “Queen” You automatically think of a woman getting everything she wants But it’s not like that at all (At all, at all) See, being a ruler means sacrifice (Sacrifice, sacrifice) Most the time, you get less than what you give (What you give) So every woman and mother in the world is a queen Because she sacrificed so much (So much, so much, so much) ...They just don’t know, know, know, know ....
As she stomps across stages in her sexy thigh high boots on her North American Royal Tour with Nas, The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul drops a new single, Thursday, August 8th for all the Queens, titled ‘Know.’ Before she utters her first note she makes sure to announce the Soundwave produced single is for all the Queens out there. She lets the fellas know, they just don’t know what every woman and mother of world goes through and its that sacrifice that makes they all Queens. MJB showcases her iconic vocals as she gives a powerful testimony of triumph and struggle. The music icon may have carried the title of Queen Of Hip-Hop Soul for decades but she let’s you know don’t get it twisted, being a Queen isn’t easy. She continues to be an inspiration to generations of females by sharing her story of overcoming obstacles. When life is coming at me quick, I had to tuck in my emotions I know He watchin’, God, I made it look good, I was chosen Gone through hell to get to heaven, build a bridge and get over My snap-back’s real, still thick in these jeans I ain’t missing no meals New tour, new music and wait there’s more. Mary will be coming to your your TV screen soon. Yes that’s right, Mary is be casted in new spinoff of the Starz hit series Power titled Power Book II: Ghost. The “Power” sequel, one of a few in development at Starz, “will continue the journey of some of ‘Power’s’ most controversial characters,” Starz said, and is expected to air next summer. No other details were provided, other than its name and Blige’s involvement.
MARY J BLIGE - QUEEN OF THE HIP-HOP COLLABO BY AJ WOODSON Before embarking on The Royalty Tour this summer, the unbreakable, unfadable royal duo MJB & Nas released a new anthem, ‘Thriving.’ Mary shows why she’s The Queen as she inspires by sharing her personal hardships. In the universal anthem of empowerment, her chemistry with Mr. Illmatic is nothing less than regal. Over the uplifting beat, MJB holds her crown high and overcomes adversities. Those sad songs don’t break ’em. Meanwhile, Esco boasts his come up and survival from hate and violence. Another solid collaboration. Mary wasn’t only The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, she is also the Queen of the Hip-Hop Collabo. Black Westchester take a look at some of MJB’s greatest hip-hop collabos. All I Need To Get By - Method Man feat Mary J. Blige (1995) Hip-Hop’s Marvin and Tammy. This is my personal all-time favorite hip-hop collabo! All That I Got Is You - Ghostface Killah feat Mary J. Blige (1996) A Hood Classic! What’s The 411 - Mary J. Blige feat. Grand Puba (1992) The birth of Brook-Lynn, this is the joint that truly gave birth to the Queen Of Hip-Hop Soul. Y.O. & Now Rule. All I can say Mary J & Grand Puba together are very special. Smif n Wessun and Mary J Blige - I Love You (Remix) This is how we do, everyday all day, Smif n Wessun & MJB don’t play as they ride the Issac Hayes, ‘Ike’s Mood’ and DJ Hollywood’s ‘Hollywood’s World’ samples nicely
Real Love (remix) - Mary J. Blige feat The Notorious B.I.G. (1992) From Mary accapella intro to the first base drop, put this on at any party and watch the dance floor fill up. Add B.I.G. to the remix and you got an official club banger, peace out to Brooklyn. Can’t Knock The Hustle - Jay Z feat. Mary J. Blige (1996) A classic off Jay Z’s debut disc, Reasonable Doubt, Jay Z & MJB is always a recipe for success. Ludacris featuring Mary J Blige - Runaway Love (2006) An inspiring but sad song about girls living abusive, empty lives wanting to run away from it all. Mary J. Blige featuring Lauren Hill - I Used To Love Him (1998) Track #9 From Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill. You can’t go wrong with L Boogie & Mary, what! I’ll Do for You - Father MC feat Mary J. Blige (1990) From back up singer and dancer, to hip-hop royalty. Grand Puba featuring Mary J Blige - Check it Out (1992) Give thumbs up cause I’m glad I could bring her... A Smooth and funky joint reuniting the legendary Brand Nubian emcee Grand Puba, with the future Queen, Mary J. Blige Wyclef Jean featuring Mary J. Blige - 911 ft. Mary J. Blige A duet many didn’t see coming including this writer, but another powerful collaboration I Can Love You - Mary J. Blige feat. Lil Kim (1997) From The Share My World album, Queen B & The Queen Of Hip-Hop Soul together, the epitome of the ride or die chick! This was when Kim was on top of her game. Not Today -Mary J Blige ft Eve Off the Barbershop Soundtrack, The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul & the Pitbull In A Skirt... nuff said! Mary J. Blige ft Craig Mack - You Don’t Have To Worry (Remix) (1993) Prod. by Money Earnin’ own DJ Eddie F., remixed by Tony Dofat for Who’s The Man soundtrack Mary J. Blige - You Remind Me ft. Greg Nice MJB and Greg N.I.C.E reminds us of a love we once knew, yes Mary it’s you... Mary J. Blige - Love @ 1st Sight ft. Method Man (2003) ‘what you thought you wasn’t gonna see me, You can’t spell Mary J Blige without a JB’ Method Man aka Johnny Blaze once again joins the queen for another classic hip-hop/ R&B collabo
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16 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
THE JOURNEY OF A GENIUS… DMX
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
The definition of a genius is a person who displays exceptional ability, creativity, or originality, typically to a degree that is associated with the achievement of new advances in a domain of knowledge. He is a scholar in many or a single subject and may be referred to as ahead of his time which leads to why they are often misunderstood. This.. is absolutely the definition of this particular individual who is clearly on the precipice of yet another exciting new chapter. A genius to me is one who can walk through that hellfire mostly unscathed and come out without the smell of smoke. I come from this masterminds stomping grounds and fully understand the cloud that sits over the impoverished areas. I also am aware of the systematic poverty that fuels the inability to make it out. Liquor stores and caustic language greet you every couple of blocks. Making it home from jail was celebrated more than college homecomings. When you can take the vicissitudes of that environment; the nothingness and create something, you are a genius. This particular artist… Colossal History-making Genius!! An entire movement was created around him. He has created the Jerabaum of hood anthems that have gone down in hip hop history as the song that caused a paradigm shift in rap music. He has proved to the masses, again and again, your circumstances can not define you. In fact, it should empower you. The only way it can impede upon your gifts is if YOU allow it to. Even if your name stands for Dark Man. The name is a euphemism for what his talent has actually been able to achieve. His soul is in his artistry and the people. In 1989, I was 14.. engulfed in everything HipHop I had met this artist through my Brother Cloud, him, my best friend and I immediately clicked and hung out a few times. He had a show coming up at school 12 in Yonkers and invited us to check it out. It was crowded, we made our way through the Carhartt, Timb, and Fila outfitted folk stopped close to the platform which he stood on. As soon as he grabbed the mic the crowd control was laser. He demolished it. Earl Simmons performed with a level of urgency and dynamism that I’d never had the honor of witnessing before. At that moment I knew.. this guy is a genius and one day the entire world will know his name. If you are a lover of Hip Hop you’ve belted his verses at ignorant levels while imitating his voice even if your mom was in the room! #DontLie You saw that first music video in the legendary tunnel nightclub and said: “What in the Eukanuba and pit lover is this this…..!!!!!!!!” You wanted to leap clear out your chair through the screen and lose it with the crowd! #ThatIsHipHop #WhosWithMe A fresh surge of excitement for HipHop. New York had given birth to yet another golden child. Quiet sometime would pass before the world would indeed know his name. A few years before signing with the Ruff Ryders label, he was signed to Columbia/Ruffhouse in 1992. After releasing a single, “Born Loser” he was released from the contract and moved on. Still pressing forward, DMX made an appearance in ’95 on a hit single with Mic Geronimo, JayZ, and Ja-Rule called “Time to build”. In ’97 alongside one of Hip Hops Legends LL Cool J also accompanied by Hip-hop greats Redman & Method Man and…. the controversial Canibus. DMX laId a killer verse dead smack in the middle of a legendary brewing battle. The hip-hop moment when LL swung the Excalibur letting Canibus and whoever else know don’t even come for him even if you’re sent!! The universe was working its magic, DMX was being pushed into his purpose. As the stars aligned they added lighter fuel to that flame The LOX (Jada Kiss, Styles P, Sheik Louch) released a scorching hit “Money, Power, Respect.” Ft DMX and the incredible Queen B Lil Kim that catapulted up the charts and shook the entire Hip-Hop industry. Who was this…?? The voice, the raw unfiltered lyrics, the flow, the authenticity, the image and the team that surrounded him… it was unprecedented. 1998 was an incredible year for not just DMX Def Jam who he had then signed to, but Hip Hop as a whole. In February Earl released his first single, “Get At Me Dog”. It exploded. Certified GOLD! The world was now ready to digest the entirety of The Dark Man and this new wave. His first major-label album “It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot” released in May 1998 debuted at number 1 on the Billboard charts selling over 5 million copies worldwide! December 1998 DMX kept the fire burning with his second album “Flesh Of My Flesh Blood Of My Blood” also debuted and staying at number one for the first 3 weeks on the Billboard 200! This genius made history becoming the first Hip Hop artist to release 2 number one album in the same year!
The industry was changing allowing artists to merge into acting. Earl just so happened to be a natural landing a role alongside Nas and T-Boz from TLC in this iconic hood classic “Belly”. His depiction of the character Tommy Bunz was executed flawlessly. Just like that, Earl Simmons had now become an international superstar. In 1999, he raised the bar even higher. His third best selling masterpiece “…And Then There Was X” skyrocketing up the charts becoming his third album to debut at number one on Billboard 200 ultimately selling over 6 million albums! The song “What These B*tches Want” ft Cisco also signed to Def Jam was the silent assassin single that buzzed in every car that passed. Shortly after countless movie roles poured in. In 2000, DMX stared alongside Asian star Jet Li in what became breakout role in the American Film Industry in “Romeo Must Die”. The roles got even bigger in 2001. He stared beside international superstar Steven Segal in “Exit Wounds” Permanently validating Earl as a Hollywood actor. Of course, all this success did not come without the typical celebrity woes. You can’t have light without heat. Challenges he faced in his personal life did its best to propel the multi-platinum superstar off course. Instead, he focused his energy on the music and release of his 4th studio album in 2001 titled “The Great Depression”. It became his 4th studio album to debut at number 1 on the Billboard 200 with magnetic singles like “Who We Be” and “We Right Here”. Although certified triple platinum it wasn’t the sales the Hip Hop genius was used to. DMX released a fifth studio album in 2003 titled “Grand Champ” . The God he’s often heard preaching about was definitely on his side. Once again his album debut at number 1 on the Billboard 200! Disputed the challenges he faced Earl become the first artist in history to release 5 consecutive studio albums to debut at number 1! Spiritually the number 5 stands for “Grace”. The grace that covers during weakness, trials, and tribulations. “Where The Hood At” was an ultrasonic clarion call of support for anyone who’s ever rocked with him as an artist. Especially after he then announced that this was the final masterpiece from the genius and he’d soon retire from Hip Hop. In 2006, DMX signed with Columbia Records releasing album number 6 “Year Of The Dog… Again” debuted at number 2 only a couple hundred copies shy of hitting number one on Billboard 200. In 2008 Def Jam released 2 compilation albums, Greatest Hits “The Definition Of X” and ” The Best Of DMX”. During this time Earl was searching for guidance and leaning strongly on his faith. In 2009 he decided he would pursue preaching spending most of his time studying scripture and following God call on his life. Still having a love for music, Earl vowed production was still on the table. In 2011 DMX reemerged performing at the BET HipHop awards bearing good news for his diehard fans. Yet again he was working diligently on his 7th studio album titled “The Weight In” which became an EP he digitally released in May of 2012. Later that year September 2012 Undisputed was released after signing an album deal with Seven Arts Ent. After Seven Arts illegally released Earls 8th studio album in 2015 called “Redemption Of The Beast” without contract or permission. Earl Simmons ended his deal with Seven Arts took legal action against the company. In June of 2016 producer to the stars, Divine Bars produced the single “Blood Red” to rave reviews. DMX has also stepped back into the lab with prodigious producer Swizz Beatz who I’ve been to the studio with DMX and heard what was nothing short of incredible. They released a song called “Bain is Back”. Swizz states Dr. Dre, as well as Kanye West, would both have their hands in the pot as collaborators on this next project. Now, in 2019 while working on his 8th studio album you can believe it is nothing less than extraordinary. Earl has managed to outlast any struggle he’s faced. I always remind him how proud I am of his contributions to this thing we love called Music. The quick whittled sapient punchlines and unmatched showmanship keeps his calendar full to this day with nonstop bookings. The genius from around the way who made something out of nothing, pure grit, fortitude, and endurance as his lyrics state isn’t going anywhere. The thing about geniuses you never know what they’ll come up with next and you can never EVER count them out! Priscilla Echi has worked in the High End Costumer Service Management and Non Profit arena for over 15 years. She has also been around music & fashion for over 20 years. This experience has given her distinctive vision and deep appreciation for how communication through media and non-profit work when managed well, can improve the quality of life in our region, one program at a time.
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BW PRODUCER SPOTLIGHT
BLACK WESTCHESTER 17
RON ‘AMEN-RA’ LAWRENCE TONY DOFAT THE CHEF... IS STILL COOKING BY AJ WOODSON
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
Everyone knows classic joints like Hypnotize, Love Like This, Money Power & Respect Been Around The World and Phenomenon. You know the songs when they come on, you probably know the artists names who made them but many do not know the name of the man behind these Hip-Hop and R&B’s classics. I’m, talking about Ron ‘Amen-Ra’ Lawrence who produced much of these classics while living with his older brother Derickson Lawrence’s house in Mount Vernon. Yes former congresssional candidate and current Mount Vernon Charter Revision Committee Chairman, that Derickson Lawrence. ok now that I have your attention. While the public may not know the name the industry does. As soon as he produced his first singe with Biggie, they all came calling. Ruff Ryder came and so did an at the point unknown Alicia Keys, just to name a few. They all came up to Mount Vernon for music and Amen-Ra played them all tracks in his studio in an upstairs bedroom at his brother’s house. The discography is bananas. His Hip-Hop resume is extensive and includes productions for Hip-Hop artists like The Notorious B.I.G, LL Cool J, The Lox, MC Lyte, Rakim, The Terror Squad, Ed O.G & Da Bulldogs, Puff Daddy & The Family, Ma$e, Tracey Lee, Jay Z, Black Rob, Lord Tariq & Peter Gunz and the list goes on. If we were to stop right there that would be an impressive resume and could stand on its own. But when you add productions for artists like Mary J. Blige, Beyonce, Boyz II Men, Brain McKnight, Faith Evans, Luther Vandross, Shai, Imajin, LSG, Tyrese, Backstreet Boys, Carl Thomas, Jimmy Cozier, Blu Cantrell and José Padilla now that’s impressive. But wait did I mention producing a sog called Wonderful for the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin that wins a Grammy for Best Tradition R&B Vocal Performance at the 46th Grammy Awards in 2003. He went on to be a filmaker and now the brother can also add author to his extensive resume. He has an autobiographical book titled Where I’m From - named after the Jay Z classic he produced on the Jigga’s 1997 In My Lifetime Vol.1 album - available now on ThisIsRon.com. We brought a copy right after the interview that just came in the mail, look for a book review soon. “a first-hand account detailing his experiences with industry movers and shakers and candid revelations of his long and winding road toward greatness makes this a thrilling literary soundtrack,” is how Where I’m From Co-Author Sheldon Taylor describes on the book on the back cover. “A candid and transparent account that places a well-deserved spotlight on one of comtemporary music’s greatest producers.” His story did not start as a world renowed producer, while in college at Howard University, along with another future Bad Boy heavy-hitter producer, Deric ‘D-Dot Angelettie (The Madd Rapper) - he formed the Hip-Hop group Two Kings In A Cipher. The dynamic duo released their debut album, From Pyramids To Projects in 1991 on Bahia Entertainment before turning to producing and recording work for Sean “Puffy” Combs’ Bad Boy label, as part of the Hit Men. I have to say one of my all-time favorites is Hypnotize. Complex Magazine wrote “If there’s a definitive example of that sound from this time period, it’s “Hypnotize.” Take a classic groove like Herb Alpert’s “Rise,” beef up the bass and make the drums knock, then get someone like Biggie to spit some Cristal-soaked lavish fantasies over it, and you have a certified hit. Sure, it was a formula, but it worked perfectly. Its legacy was surely heightened by the fact that B.I.G. was murdered a little over a week after the single’s release, but the D-Dot-and-Amen-Ra-produced song was already crushing it.” With all the classic material he has produced, all of the incredible artists he has worked with, all the accolades, the Grammy Award he won with Aretha, one of the most inspiring things I learned in my interview was that Ron is a cancer survivor. Not exactly what you would read about in most interviews about his musical accomplishments and extensive resume as a artist, producer and songwriter but equally impressive as far as I’m concerned. BW salutes and proudly spotlight Ron in our first Westchester Music Edition.
He does not.. fit in a box. He doesn’t even fit in a circle. He rolls to the beat of his own drum. Literally. While most have known him for an extensive career as one of HipHop’s top super producers, he also has two equally extraordinary talents that blend celestial wonder. One of which might take you by surprise as it shatters the stereotype surrounding most men. Both.. tap into the highest vibrations of the soul and imprint grandeur on the human senses. He’s a person who is unapologetically fearless when venturing outside the box and does nothing unless he feels it. See... before Tony was even heard of as a producer, he was actually.. a DJ. One who in the beginning DJ’ed just enough to produce records—which when you think of it the two are emphatically Intertwined. Most recently Dofat took up on an offer to take on a European tour. The cross fertilization of his now-seasoned production skills brought everything full circle. The beauty about music is it crosses racial divides that exist and bridges all ethnicities together. And that— is what his other talent does as well. What’s one thing that everyone has to do that you can NOT live without ?? (Jeopardy music...) EAT!! And boy oh boy does he have “The Best” recipes for everyone! Now this isn’t for the locavore who’s never ventured outside of your region. Prepare yourself, for this is a fiesta in your mouth waiting to happen! I’ve personally tasted his cooking and the combination of flavors come together like orchestral music at Lincoln. Tony’s been cooking since 5, his father’s Chinese and his mothers from the south. He managed to not just fuse the two, but to add his own twist of influences from all over. “There was a time when eating healthy was expensive” says the polyhistor who prefers to stay home and cook. A change of diet years ago lead him to seek the healthier side of the culinarily world. One of the great things about Tony’s new cookbook “Hungry On A Budget” is although he’s world traveled with an opulent palate, everything is not just organic, but also budget friendly! So moms like me who have a college going son, can purchase this book and take comfort in knowing he can afford to cook with friends and not break the bank! (code for staying out mom and dads wallet) Here’s a few quick tips: Key to cooking a large bird: Brine!!!! Your meat will remain juicy and never dry out! He has included his very own brine recipe and technique in the book! Keys to using cooking wine: Only cook with a wine you’d drink!! I found this to be a fantastic tip as Holland cooking wines were my go to! He says use a dry white when cooking dishes like scampi it might be a tad sweeter but still delicious! Keys to “The Best” friend chicken: Again, BRINE! Yes brine fried chicken as well! And he uses buttermilk and tablespoon of vinegar!! You heard that right! It breaks down the tissue and makes for succulent bird!! The amazing thing is this is just the beginning. Tony is already stirring ideas for a level two cookbook which will have more intricate flavors from around the world. He is always ahead of the curb and we are here for it all! We celebrate this incredibly talented soul and look forward to whatever’s coming out of his speakers or... his kitchen!!
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18BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
AL B SURE STILL IN EFFECT MODE BY PRISCILLA ECHI
The temple of Love built buy this R&B crooner had more women worshiping on hands and knees than the Lord’s prayer. Albert Joseph Brown III, better know as Mr. “Al B. Sure” was born June 4, 1969. The songwriter, singer, and producer grew up in none other than Money Earnin’ Mount Vernon, New York. When the New Jack Swing movement was in full effect in the late 80’s, Al reached a level of stardom most never get the opportunity to experience. The star football quarterback actually turned down a scholarship to the University of Iowa to pursue music. It just so happens soon after he caught the masterful eye of Quincy Jones who selected him in 1987 as the very first winner of the Sony Innovators Talent Search. Jones and Al went on to work together on
on several incredible projects. Remember “Secret Garden” from Jones’ double platinum album Back on the Block?? Yes... the song that had all of us in a roaring frenzy recording whenever it came on! I clearly remember sitting by the radio preparing my tape— ready to release the pause button as soon as it played. Barry White, El DeBarge, and James Ingram were part of the quartet that blueprinted this song into our hearts. Fast forward to 88’ In Effect Mode, kicks the door wide open selling more than two million copies. Not to mention topping the Billboard R&B chart for seven straight weeks in a row. “Nite and Day” was the balm of R&B. I remember meeting him at the infamous Hit Factory Studio in NYC. A gentleman by the name of Avery introduced us, his humility caught me by surprise. He was in the prime of his career, award nominations were through the roof. Al received an AMA for Best New R&B Artist. He also received several Grammy and Soul Train Award nominations, and subsequently won the award for Best New Artist. Al was also responsible for having his hand involved in bringing many artist to the table as a writer/producer such as the multi-platinum group Jodeci, Tevin Campbell, Dave Hollister, Case, Usher as well as Faith Evans. As his vision began to expand he hit the big screen. Al co-starred with Martin Lawrence in a television pilot titled Private Times in 1991. He had several talk show appearances from Late Night with David letterman to Donahue To The Oprah Whinfrey Show. Can’t forget about Will Smith’s Fresh Prince of Bel Air and even hosted MTV Jams.
Al’s ABS Entertainment launched a television development division in 2000, and he served as co-executive producer of the HBO Comedy Special starring Jamie Foxx. After a long hiatus, Al returned to his love Of music in 2009 with Honey I’m Home, his first release on the Hidden Beach label. Brown has three incredibly handsome sons who’ve all followed in his footsteps musically. Albert Brown IV is a singer named Lil’ B. Sure. A second son, Devin, an Atlanta based music producer and hip-hop artist, he goes by the name Devin Loud. Also, actor and musician Quincy, named after Quincy Jones, with the stunning former model Kim Porter whom the smash hit “Forever My Lady” was penned for. Between then and now he’s transformed into an incredibly positive force with his #AlBees movement touching souls globally. Believe it into fruition is one of many positive mantra’s you’ll find on his Instagram. His encouraging post are part self-help exhortation and part sermon. It isn’t hard to tell a higher power definitely has hands on him. The site www.Iamnewjacksexy.com has allowed him to break into new territory branching out into merchandise as his brand continues to expand. Al has also ventured into radio hosting the “Love and R&B Radio” station which seems to fit like another perfect piece to the puzzle. I don’t think he intends to stop any time soon. As his fan base continues to grow exponentially I really don’t think the people want him to! Follow everything Al B Sure: Instagram: @OfficialAlBSure @LoveAndRnBRadio Iamnewjacksexy.com Albsure.net/LoveandRnB
LIL B SURE THE NEXT GENERTION BY AJ WOODSON
Albert Joseph Brown IV aka “Lil B Sure” was born October 30, 1986 in Mount Vernon, NY to Albert Joseph Brown III aka “Al B Sure!” and Ann McDermott. At a young age his mother kept him busy by putting him in sports. Al was born few years prior to his father becoming an overnight sensation. During his young years his father was a heavy hitter on the R&B charts. Al would often watch his father’s videos and performances and would imitate him. Al attended Mount St. Michaels and New York Military Academy. In 2001; his mother enrolled him in Mount Vernon High where he joined the Mount Vernon High School Varsity Basketball team. Al would often put on a show by displaying his dunking ability; he eventually was given the name “Skyscraper” because of how high he would jump. Al got the athlete trait from both parents; his mother ran track; many called her a “legend”; she broke many
because she broke several records that stood for over 25 years; several are still standing. His father turned down a full scholarship to pursue his singing career. Al would often sing to the ladies in the hall and acquired the name “Lil B Sure!”. If singing in the hallways and in the locker room during basketball wasn’t enough; Al decided to enter a high school talent show. The word got out he had real singing skills and the school girls started going crazy for him. Even parents, teachers and the principal were amazed by his vocal power. Many remembered his father as an artist who graduated from MVHS while they worked there. In his Junior year; Lil Al told his mother he wanted to move to California to be with is dad and pursue a music career. Although reluctant, his mother agreed and sent him to live with his dad. With plenty of coaching from his famous dad & adopted uncles Lil Al was given an opportunity to appear on the popular west coast television show “Rock The Cradle” the equivalent of “American Idol. Following his first performance one judge told him “you can’t sing… you can SIIIING”; Lil Al received huge praise from the judges and the approval from the audience especially the ladies. Al was now a star and gained his own fans. Al can be found on YouTube singing to ladies and doing several Covers. Al did an impersonation of Chris Brown that went viral (can be found on YouTube). When Al is not performing or touring he can be seen doing back up for his dad. Al Sr. often give him a chance to show his skills. He has graced the stage with many greats (Bobby Brown, Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, Keith Sweat, Guy, Jodeci) & many others. Like his dad Al have big dreams to be the next star from Mount Vernon like his uncle Heavy D, Eddie F (Godfather), cousin Pete Rock to name a few. Al have a 6-year-old son Chayse who also love music & play several instruments. Just as talent is in the water in Mt. Vernon... Music is in the bloodlines of the Browns. Al’s music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes & other platforms. Follow Lil B Sure on Instagram @bsurealbjr & Facebook @LilBSure
DJ EDDIE F AND THE UNTOUCHABLES BY AJ WOODSON In the late 1980s, Edward “DJ Eddie F” Ferrell - co-founder, partner, and DJ of Heavy D & the Boyz - created Untouchables Entertainment in order to bolster the careers of promising young producers, writers and artists. Credited with originating the first modern “production camp,” the company featured multi-platinum production and writing architects, including Eddie F himself, Pete Rock, Dave Hall, Kenny Greene, Mary Brown, Kenny Smoove & Donell Jones, who produced, wrote, and/or remixed songs for recording artists such as TLC, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, LL Cool J, Will Smith, Jodeci, Destiny’s Child, Jaheim, Luther Vandross, Run DMC.
“Untouchables Producers was the NY based young Hip-Hop and RnB version of the Motown song making assembly line,” Eddie shares with Black Westchester. “I wanted to create an “A Team” of producers and songwriters that a label could always count on to deliver a hit record.” During this year, Eddie simultaneously released Eddie F. and the Untouchables: Let’s Get It Onthe album on Motown Records. Spotlighting the works of the Untouchables camp, the compilation featured the only known in-studio collaboration of two up-andcoming hip-hop MC’s at the time, 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G., on the title track “Let’s Get It On”- which also featured Heavy D and Grand Puba.
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BLACKWESTCHESTER.COM
BLACK WESTCHESTER19
PETE ROCK, THE HIP-HOP SUPERHERO: RETURN OF THE SP1200 BY PRISCILLA ECHI
The SP1200 is as essential to the development of hip-Hop as air is to life. Put one of the worlds greatest HipHop producers behind one— and every knee must bow. Bring forth an album with that title— and you’ve got a rhythmic Hiroshima on steroids. But.. Before we get to that let chop it up on a little Hip Hop history... The SP12 first came to light in the 80’s, embraced first by producers and musicians whom were adapting to the modernization of sound. It was capable of rhythmically playing back samples stored in it’s memory. Now when its successor the SP-1200 dropped like the hammer of THOR it would release the full potential of sampling and solidify the Golden Era of Hip Hop with a sound all it own. To this day, the cult like following behind the SP-1200 is unmatched. Pete Rock, aka Chocolate Boy Wonder, aka Soul Brother #1, one of the greatest Hip Hop Producers of all time, has a career that most could only dream of. Cousin to the late great Dwight “Heavy D” Myers, his musical impulses have compulsively cranked out historical hits that’s shaped HipHop as a whole today. He’s come an extremely long way from the 19 year old in the basement rocking out to old records. The history of this musical genius extends well over 25 years. Here’s a list of his discography: STUDIO ALBUMS Soul Survivor (1998) Soul Survivor II (2004) NY’s Finest (2008) Soul Survivor 3 (TBA)
PETE ROCK & CL SMOOTH ALBUMS All Souled Out (1991) Mecca and the Soul Brother (1992) The Main Ingredient (1994)
COLLABORATION ALBUMS My Own Worst Enemy (with Ed O.G.) (2004) Monumental (with Smif-N-Wessun) (2011) Don’t Smoke Rock (with Smoke DZA) (2016) Retropolitan (with Skyzoo) (2019) INSTRUMENTAL ALBUMS PeteStrumentals (2001) The Surviving Elements: From Soul Survivor II Sessions (2005) PeteStrumentals 2 (2015) Lost Sessions (2017) Return of the SP1200 (2019)
that didn’t bleed but were still deeply felt. I could clearly hear Common on track 4 masterfully titled “Hope The World Dont Stop (Before I Get Mines)” the top notes of Jazz take you to the vibe that created mass success for producers like Pete Rock, J-Dilla and DJ Premier. Below Zero is the cyborg of the group. It transforms sound with icy hot patterns throughout the entire track leaving the canvas clear for whomever’s diegesis can accurately paint a picture. Overall, a masterpiece of sound that speaks to the superhuman strength and current relevancy of the Soul Brother #1. Landmarking the Return Of The SP1200. Follow everything Pete Rock on Social Media: Instagram: @RealPeteRock Twitter : @PeteRock
His latest release, ingeniously titled “Return Of The SP1200” takes you to a space of when HipHop had the audacity to believe. The first track “Dreamer” tap dances on nostalgic late 90’s energy — when creative freedom came with scratches and cuts
THE LOX- 20 YEARS LATER, MIND BODY & SPIRIT
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
all came to life. Watching him glow was like watching fireworks for the first time through the eyes of a child. That moment when the Picasso is complete and you inhale the ambiance. With all they’ve matured into outside of hip-hop, I questioned how it’s even possible to remain so tuned into the community, yet —on an energy level that appears to be manifesting a higher skill set and consciousness. Even as time and artistry change... Most artists find evolution to be a challenge. They become compartmentalized into one era unable to adapt to the times. One conversation with Styles P, one third of the infamous group put that question to rest, proving— they’ve mastered it. The topic : God We were all amped in the moment swept away in the discussions of religion and African-American culture, to add another wild card to the discussion: ...and then there was X (DMX), pun intended. You can imagine the temperature of the conversation. In typical Styles P fashion, he gave an impassioned description of him being spiritual— but not religious, “knowing” he’s being guided by a higher power. He was by no means subverting religious institutions but knowledgeable about our African-American history prior to being introduced to religion. I immediately knew at that moment... they got it... they know the secret.
If you put the sounds of a unwaveringly uniform war-cry with high frequencies into two words... ...it would read — The Lox. The skill set and creative dynamic is that out of a motion picture featuring Kemetic Kings who’s mission is clear from the start. Make no mistake.. this, God-like stature these emcees encompass has been earned... not bought. not given. The bars... an ongoing reflection of where they’ve been and just as laser as when they first exploded into the game. They consistently pull from the culture and regurgitate a raw authenticity that is unmatched in any era. This.. is not up for debate! Formerly called the “WARLOX” and rightfully so.. they’re built for war and have outlasted a larger part of their peers. I had the privilege of sitting in on a session a few weeks ago... Only way I can describe it.... Acupuncture for any hip-hop head’s soul. I found myself lost in a swirl of fluid sounds and mellifluous verses that tapped in to the inner core of my existence. Scram Jones (producer of the track) could not contain the enthusiasm as it
“Mind, Body, Spirit.” This is the “Why” that keeps them on top. Jadakiss 2004 smash hit reflects that. Everything, from what they’re ingesting into their bodies, what they watch—as CNN flickered in my peripheral, to what feeds their spirit have all come together with mathematical perfection. Quite often you’ll see them working out on stage with the Barfather himself Giant, in between performances. Giant, a genius in his own right, Founder of the #Bartendaz #MindUp movement, created targeted body weight calisthenics that sculpt the entire body with precision. On any given day either can confidently drop a set of 20 or more at the bar. All of the Lox are businessmen. D-Block studios/Label, So Raspy, Juices for Life.. I believe is just the beginning of their ever expanding empire all stemming from the Ruff Ryder Movement. Money, Power, Respect right up to the present pending 4th studio album, they’ve managed to perform at a high level of excellence over a long period of time—giving them rights to the title, “Legendary”. The buzz is out. The streets are undoubtedly whispering of new material, patiently nesting as if preparing for new birth. For fans, this is a powerful contribution to the already inspirational discography. All of whom are elated to know they can now rest assured, wait will soon be over..... .... to be continued. Follow everything The Lox on Instagram @Real_Lox Sheek : @realsheeklouch - Jadakiss : @therealkiss - Styles P : @realholidaystyles
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20 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER MUSIC EDITION
DANGER MOUSE
Brian Joseph Burton, better known as Danger Mouse, was born on July 29, 1977, in White Plains, but spent much of his childhood in Spring Valley. When he was 13, his family moved to Stone Mountain, a suburb of Atlanta, where he was introduced to the hip-hop sounds of the South and Midwest. Danger Mouse has been in love with music for nearly all of his life. When he was attending college classes, he started to record and release his own songs. At this time, he was releasing music under the name Pelican City. He then teamed up with MF Doom as Danger Doom in 2005. I first heard of Danger Mouse when he produced an album he called The Grey Album, an experimental project intended for a limited 3,000-copy release in February 2004. His album took off because of its uniqueness. He mixed totally different songs from rock stars of old and rappers of new to create something original. There was hardly a thing like it before, and people were starting to talk because of it. The Grey Album is a mashup album by Danger Mouse, released in 2004. It mixes an a cappella version of rapper Jay-Z’s The Black Album endowed with tracks composed entirely of samples from from The Beatles’ LP The Beatles, commonly known as “The White Album”.
SAMPLE WHAT, SAMPLE WHO BY AJ WOODSON
“Sampling isn’t about “hijacking nostalgia wholesale,” DJ, musician and producer Mark Ronson — whose production credits range from Amy Winehouse to Paul McCartney — said during his 2014 TED Talk. Older songs often find new life thanks to music sampling. Contemporary artists — most typically in hip-hop and electronic — take a beat, hook, or snippet from a previously recorded track and use it in their new song. In our first annual Westchester Music Edition, where we highlight Westchester’s rich music history, we explored what artists sampled Westchester artists. While this isnt every artists we comprised a list to show the importance of Westchester music.
ATLANTIC STARR SECRET LOVERS (1985) I’m Goin Back by Jadakiss feat. Nesha (2004) - Multiple Elements The Way We Live by Noreaga feat. Chico DeBarge (1998) -Vocals / Lyrics Problems by Next feat. Koffee Brown (1997) - Vocals / Lyrics Love in This Club, Part II by Usher feat. Beyoncé and Lil Wayne (2008) - Hook / Riff LET’S GET CLOSER (1982) Nobody Does It Better by Nate Dogg feat Warren G (1998) - Multiple Elements A+Z by A+ feat. AZ (1996) - Hook / Riff I’ve Changed by Jaheim feat. Keyshia Cole (2007) - Multiple Elements Closer Than Close by Nipsey Hussle (2008) - Multiple Elements Closer Than Close by Luniz feat. Dru Down (2002) - Multiple Elements Let’s Get Closer by Bow Wow (2011) - Multiple Elements Closer Than Most by French Montana (2009) - Multiple Elements The Hard Part by Joe Budden (2011) - Multiple Elements My Arms Are the Brooklyn Bridge by Lil B (2012) - Multiple Elements Closer Than Friends by Domino and Mo (2006) - Vocals / Lyrics SECOND TO NONE (1983) Street Life by Mic Geronimo feat. Monifah (1997) - Multiple Elements Lonely at the Top by Parlay (1996) - Multiple Elements 2nd to None by Dolla Boy feat Tity Boi & Raekwon (2007) - Multiple Elements ALWAYS (1987) Dead Bent by MF DOOM (1997) - Vocals / Lyrics Reality Used to Be a Friend of Mine by P.M. Dawn (1991) - Multiple Elements 4 Ever by Method Man feat. Megan Rochell (2006) - Vocals / Lyrics AM I DREAMING (1980) Am I Dreaming by Wale (2005) - Multiple Elements Throw Some D’s (Cookin’ Soul Remix) by Cookin’ Soul (2008) - Multiple Elements ALL IN THE NAME OF LOVE (1987) The M.I.C. by MF DOOM (1998) - Hook / Riff TOUCH A FOUR LEAF CLOVER (1983) Life on the Line by AZ (2007) - Multiple Elements 4 Leaf Clover by Erykah Badu (1997) SEND FOR ME (1980) Send for Me - by Rich Boy (2009) - Multiple Elements Shame - by Tyrese (2015) - Vocals / Lyrics Bladey Mae Beat 47 by 9th Wonder (2013) - Multiple Elements Don’t Ask My Neighbor by Tisha Campbell and Tichina Arnold (1997) - Vocals / Lyrics WHEN LOVE CALLS (1980) Willing & Waiting by Mary J. Blige (2003) - Multiple Elements MYSTERY GIRL (1980) Double Shots by Mobb Deep feat. Big Noyd (2003) - Multiple Elements
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
THE UNDERGROUND RAP ACOLYTE FROM WHITE PLAINS
BY AJ WOODSON
The Grey Album gained notoriety when EMI attempted to halt its distribution despite approval of the project from Jay-Z and the two surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. The astonishing deconstructions and desecrations that Danger Mouse visits upon both the Fab Four and Jigga make ‘The Grey Album’, at the very least, one of THE great avantgarde pop records of the millennium. Reportedly downloaded millions of times and generating a widely publicized cease-and-desist letter from EMI, it launched him into a new stratosphere. Danger Mouse quickly proved he was more than a hip-hop producer by working on Gorillaz’ international pop smash Demon Days. For the next couple of years, Danger Mouse focused on working with other musical artists. Some of the artists that he worked with in the early 2000’s included Gorillaz and Cee Lo Green. One of the most popular collaborations he worked on with the group Gnarls Barkley. He helped to produce their first album, St. Elsewhere. This album was a massive success, which encouraged Gnarls Barkley and Danger Mouse to continue working with each other as they continued to make albums. In 2011, Danger Mouse released several singles. He released “Two Against One” with Jack White, “Black” with Norah Jones, and “Problem Queen.” All of these singles were later featured on the album Rome. Danger Mouse’s most recent single, “Chase Me,” was released in 2017 as a part of the Baby Driver Soundtrack. In 2016, Danger Mouse produced, performed on and co-wrote songs for the eleventh studio album by the Red Hot Chili Peppers titled The Getaway. Danger Mouse has also produced and co-written albums by Norah Jones (Little Broken Hearts), Electric Guest (Mondo), Portugal. The Man (Evil Friends), Adele (25), and ASAP Rocky’s (At.Long.Last.ASAP (ALLA)). He has been nominated for 19 Grammy Awards and has won six. He’s been nominated in the Producer of the Year category five times, and won the award in 2011.
STEPHANIE MILLS PUT YOUR BODY IN IT (1979) Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It (DJ Scratch Remix) by Will Smith (1998) - Multiple Elements Ey-Yo (The Reggae Virus) by KRS-One ft Mad Lion & Shaggy (1998) - Multiple Elements Wanna Be Dancin’ by Terminator X (1991) - Vocals / Lyrics Won’t Stop by Miss Jones feat. Craig Mack (1998) - - Multiple Elements WHAT CHA GONNA DO WITH MY LOVIN’ (1979) When I’m Nothing by DMX feat. Stephanie Mills (2001) - Multiple Elements Get Up by Lost Boyz (1995) - Multiple Elements Can’t Stop the Shine by Kool G Rap feat. Miss Jones (1998) - Multiple Elements STARLIGHT (1979) Black Girl Lost by Nas (1996) - Multiple Elements My Crew by Jean Grae (2003) - Multiple Elements SOMETHING IN THE WAY (YOU MAKE ME FEEL) (1989) The Way U Make Me Feel by Black Eyed Peas (1998) - Vocals / Lyrics NEVER KNEW LOVE LIKE THIS BEFORE (1980) Puppy Chow by Common (1992) - Vocals / Lyrics (YOU’RE PUTTIN’) A RUSH ON ME (1987) Amazing by Grand Puba (1995) - Vocals / Lyrics
MARY J. BLIGE REAL LOVE (1991)
Just Playing (Dreams) by The Notorious B.I.G. (1994) - Vocals / Lyrics Tha Show by Wreckx-N-Effect (1996) - Vocals / Lyrics It’s All Gravy by Romeo feat. Christina Milian (2002) - Multiple Elements Real Lover by Mad Lion (1995) - Multiple Elements BE HAPPY (1994) Holding You Down (Goin’ in Circles) by Jazmine Sullivan (2010) - Vocals / Lyrics Happiness by Dead Prez (2000) - Vocals / Lyrics Girlfriend by Lil’ Cease feat. Kelly Price and Mase (1999) - Vocals / Lyrics Wait for It by Tatyana Ali (2014) - Vocals / Lyrics YOU REMIND ME (1992) Reach Out by Nas feat. Mary J. Blige (2012) - Vocals / Lyrics LOVE NO LIMIT (PUFFY’S REMIX) (1993) Gettaway by Missy Elliott feat. Space Nine and Nicole Wray (1997) - Vocals / Lyrics ROUND AND ROUND (1997) Queens Day by Run-DMC feat. Nas and Prodigy (2001) - Multiple Elements MARY JANE (ALL NIGHT LONG) (REMIX) (1995) BY MARY J. BLIGE F. LL COOL J You’re Only a Customer by Jay-Z (1997) - Vocals / Lyrics Ur Only a Customer by LL Cool J (2008) - Vocals / Lyrics
CASE TOUCH ME TEASE ME (1996) BY CASE FT. FOXY BROWN & MARY J. BLIGE Love You Better by King Combs feat. Chris Brown (2018) - Multiple Elements Touch Me by 50 Cent (2009) - Multiple Elements Freestyle by The Lox (1996) - Multiple Elements
VENESSA WILLIAMS DREAMIN’ (1988) Dreamin by Nipsey Hussle (2010) - Multiple Elements
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
BLACK WESTCHESTER
21
BRAND NUBIAN
USHERED IN AN ERA OF POSITIVITY, CONSCIOUSNESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF SELF
BY AJ WOODSON
The legendary hip-hop group, Brand Nubian changed the game with the release of their inaugural long-player, One For All, released by Elektra Records December 4, 1990. The serious social commentary, funky and well-constructed beats, and the lyrical chemistry between the three leads helped Brand Nubian achieve critical acclaim.
One for all, Is all for one
“25 years ago today, Grand Puba, Sadat X, DJ Alamo & myself put out an album that would forever change our lives & the lives of those it resonated with, thank you all for the support over the years. Peace!” Lord Jamar (Facebook – Dec 4, 2015) As hip-hop moved into the final decade of the 20th Century, she was at a phase of positivity, consciousness, political awareness and teaching the world of the chosen people of Africa and the followers of Mohammed. Among the teachers of Afrocentricity and Islam were Brand Nubian from Now Rule (New Rochelle) consisting of conscious wordsmiths Grand Puba Maxwell, Derek (Sadat) X, Lord Jamar, and DJ Alamo. Lord Lamar and Sadat X the Wild Cowboy first met in a rhyme cipher at the New Rochelle Public Library as solo emcees. Together the talented trio’s teachings on their debut One For All was one of the first albums to get the coveted 5 mics in the Source Magazine, which was bigger than winning a Grammy in Hip-Hop circles at the time. Cause things are getting drastic Slide up in the wrong one you’ll end up in a casket (Slow down)… Honey got a problem with the bends Meaning she likes to bend over, and then she spreads the skins The ho is just ho and that’s without no controversy She can make the bedsprings sing a song of mercy
Getting straight to it, on some we don’t need no intro tip, the fifth single and title track displays the group lyrical prowess over a pretty awesome instrumental WAKE UP containing no less than three James Brown samples, “Can Mind,” “All For One” and “Funky President (People It’s Bad),” Puba, Sadat and Jamar spit a verse Wake Up is the first Grand Puba solo tip, and Puba drops madd knowledge. apiece showing the power of three solo emcees coming together as the title suggest and each holding his own. Having fun, over a dope beat while Slain are those who fought for what was right dropping knowledge of self and teaching 5% Lesson without being preachy. Slayed are those who fell victim to the pipe This will forever be a hip-hop classic. A drug controlled substance, contained in a vial Set up by the devil as he looks and he smiles SLOW DOWN Good at the game of tricknology But I have knowledge of myself, you’re not fooling me This has to be one of my all-time favorites and one of song that first comes to You see, the answer to me is black unity, unification mind when you hear the name, Brand Nubian, as well as possibly one of their biggest hit. The trio rides the Edie Brickell & the New Bohemian’s “What I Am”, Produced by Dante Ross’ production group. This was the third single off of sample nicely beat, warning the sistahs to “Slow Down,” in the cautionary crack One For All. tale. Like I said just about every track on One For All could have been a Sadat was first up to bat with some of the most memorial words of the track… single, but other standout joints were “Ragtime”; “Concerto In X Minor” and I loved when Grand Puba teamed up with Positive K and LG over the Steve Hey, baby, your hips was getting big Arrington sample (Nobody can be you but you!) that was my joint right there. Now you’re getting thin you don’t care about your wig While the group was said to sell just over 400,000 copies of the album, it was Now Woolie Willie got a pair of One for all most certainly platinum on the streets. Heavy bootleg presence in NYC, might Is all for one have hurt sales and the achievement of a gold or platinum plaque, but it can’t One for all take away from the album’s relevance as one of the greatest hip-hop albums Is all for one my sneakers ever. Wonder where he got ’em cause I hid ’em behind my speakers... Waiting on a highly anticipated follow-up, fans were a little disappointor ed at first when Puba went solo and Jamar and Sadat continued on to record with the name, it just wasn’t the same. With Puba doing his thing with Masters ...Damn it’s a shame you’re the mighty queen of vials Of The Ceremony earlier, few questioned his staying power but, Punks Jump With a wide-eyed look and a rotten-toothed smile Up To Get Beat Down showed Sadat and Jamar could hold their own without Used to walk with a swagger, now you simply stagger the Grand Man and that exactly what they did. Despite the fact both were sucFrom one spot on to the next spot on to the next spot on to the next cessful, for years fans yearned for a reunion that we were teased about from time to time but thought we would never see until, September 29, 1998, when And Jamar batting second, hits a solid double, like this… they reunited for the group’s fourth album, Foundation, eight years later. Well, what you are is a stunt, man, you’re on a hunt And your plan is to take all you can from a man and scram I’ve seen your kind before you’re not original Just a sick mixed up individual Giving up the crotch for a fresh gold watch Marking off the goods you get going up another notch Your ways and actions are like those of a savage If the price is right, then anyone can ravage Even Monty Hall can have himself a ball if his assets are in order What’s really scary is you’re somebody’s daughter Once again, Puba delivers with the lyrics, hitting it out the park, kicking the best verse, batting clean up with a grand slam… As the jewels jingle from the hot young and single little stunt A forty and a blunt, that’s all she really wants But she’ll spend your papes and she’ll use up all your plastic And if you swing an Ep, you’d better wear a prophylactic
While it was a solid effort, and it was great to see and hear the brothers back together again, for most Brand Nubian fans and real hip-hop heads, One For All will always be that album. The joint that set it off and introduced the world to three dope emcees from Now Rule who kicked science and dropped jewels and lesson of the 5% Nation, over some of the dopest tracks for everyone to enjoy, no matter what you believed in spiritually, BN made feel-good music you could vibe to. They weren’t the first Five Percenters to represent in hip-hop, but no one ever incorporated the elements of the Five Percent nation better to a beat, than Brand Nubian. Much like Langston Hughes in the 1920s and ’30s who accurately articulated the feel of the people during the day of the Harlem Renaissance, Brand Nubian extraordinarily captured the soul of the people for the early 1990s as well. They gave voice to the daily struggles of African-Americans with exciting and vibrant, Poetry for Young People, infusing the knowledge and wisdom of the 5% Nation, in their lyrical content and used the music composed of James Brown-sampled breakbeats and funky R&B loops, to attract young Black youth of that era to Black consciousness.
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22 BLACK WESTCHESTER
914 HIP-HOP CLASSICS
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
TEN HIP-HOP CLASSICS FROM THE 914 BY AJ WOODSON
Back in the day it was strongly believed you had to be from one of the 5 boros to truly represent in hip-hop. Slowly but shortly, many other regions held it down like Strong Island, Philly and Jersey just to name a few. Then regions like the west coast and the dirty south ran away with rap music and never came back. But the area code to truly make noise and get the respect of the world outside of the boros was 914, just miles past the North East Bronx. Yes I’m talking about Westchester County containing Hip-Hop Meccas that each have contributed to the history of New York hip-hop. Yonkers known as Y-O, was the stomping ground of DMX and The LOX (which even though she not included on the list, also gave birth to queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige), Money Earnin’ Mount Vernon that gave birth to Heavy D & The Boyz and Pete Rock & CL Smooth and New Rochelle aka Now Rule (separated from NYC by the barely mile-wide strip of Pelham Manor) gave us Brand Nubian and the Masters of Ceremony. While everyone has their own opinion on what the greatest songs in hip-hop are. I scanned through the internet real quick to see what some consider the authority in music, like The Source Magazine, Ego Trip and Rolling Stone, had to say about the greatest hip-hop joints. Even on a ‘My Favorite 100’ list, emcee Talib Kweli did for Rolling Stones proved one thing, some of the greatest hip-hop records came out of 914, including some real hip-hop classics. While I know and expect everyone will have their own opinion and we not only invite it, we encourage you to say ya peace in the comment section. Here it is bam in ya face… without further ado, you know how we do, we present, Black Westchester’s Top 10 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs Comin’ from The 914.
They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) – Pete Rock & CL Smooth (1992) – 151 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs According to The Source – 100 Best Rap Singles in The Source – #12 Rolling Stones 50 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs Of All Time – Talib Kweli ‘My Favorite 100 Hip-Hop Songs’ (Rolling Stones Magazine) – Mecca and The Soul Brother (Album) 100 Best Rap Albums in issue 100 of the Source in 1998 – Mecca and The Soul Brother (Album) Rolling Stone Essential Hip-Hop/ R&B Recordings Of The 90’s Can’t touch Pete on the beat! Over a mean saxophone and bass sample of Tom Scott’s cover of “Today” by Jefferson Airplane, CL Smooth unravels fond memories of his own childhood creating a timeless track, that was has become one of the greatest hits in the 90’s, inspired by the death of friend Trouble T-Roy. Ruff Ryders Anthem – DMX (1988) – 151 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs According to The Source – Talib Kweli ‘My Favorite 100 Hip-Hop Songs’ (Rolling Stones Magazine) To this day when you hear DMX bark, “Stop, drop, shut ’em down open up shop Oh, no That’s how Ruff Ryders roll” without being able to control it, the head starts nodding and ya begin to make that ugly face, shouting along as you rock to not only one of hip-hop greatest joints but one of the craziest anthems and posse cuts. Money, Power, Respect – Lox ft. Lil Kim & DMX It’s the key to life. Money, power, and respect. Whatchu’ need in life. Money, power, and respect. When you eatin’ right. Money, power, and respect. Help you sleep at night. You’ll see the light. It’s the key to life.
Slow Down – Brand Nubian (1991) – #6 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1991) – 151 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs According to The Source – 100 Best Rap Singles in The Source – All For One (Album) received 5 mics in The Source – All For One (Album) 100 Best Rap Albums in issue 100 of the Source in 1998 – All For One (Album) Rolling Stone Essential Hip-Hop/R&B Recordings Of The 90’s Over a funky sample of Edie Brickell & New Bohemians’s “What I Am”, (listed as one of Complex magazine Top 100 Hip-Hop beats of all time), Grand Puba, Sadat X and Lord Jamar lyrically lay out a cautionary tale of fast living in the height of the crack era. Off ‘All For One’ the only BN Album to consist of all three righteous rappin emcees, which goes down on one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all times. Its All About The Benjamins remix – Puff Daddy & Family (1997) – 151 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs According to The Source – #1 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1997) – No Way Out (Album) Rolling Stone Essential Hip-Hop/R&B Recordings Of The 90’s While you will never hear me reference Sean Combs on any greatest emcees list, he know how to make a hit. Later responding to the fact Jadakiss penned his bars on this track, he rapped, “dont worry if I write rhymes, I write checks…” With the help of Biggie, Lil Kim and Yonkers finest, The Lox, this also goes down as one of the greatest posse cuts from the man who invented the remix. The Overweight Lovers In The House – Heavy D & The Boyz – #28 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1987) Over the JB’s Pass The Pea, Hev proved no one had more bounce to the ounce!
All For One – Brand Nubian Now they say sinning is for sinners – #9 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1997) so I guess I’m not a sinner. Speaking of dope posse cuts…. Anything with the Lox and DMX could be on Beginning’s for beginners the list! so I guess I’m no beginner… Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down – Brand Nubian – #9 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1991) – #8 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1992) – Talib Kweli ‘My Favorite 100 Hip-Hop Songs’ (Rolling Stones Magazine) Lord Jamar & Sadat X showed the world, some of whom had written them off, that they could still catch wreck without Puba. Again the entire album is a classic, but the title track best displays the lyrical prowess of each of the trio! Mr. Big Stuff – Heavy D & The Boyz – #37 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1986) With no less then three, yes I said three James brown Samples from the – 100 Best Rap Singles in The Source Godfather of Souls tracks, Can Mind, All For One and of course one of the – Livin Large – 100 Best Rap Albums in issue 100 of the Source in 1998 most sampled JB joints, Funky President. The joint that sampled Jean Knight’s “Mr. Big Stuff” put the Heavster in the rap map forever. It may be the same track sampled used on “Boyz-N-The-Hood” by Eazy-E but it will always be the anthem that set it off for the Overweight Lover Heavy D who put Money-Earnin’ Mount Vernon on the Rap Map!
111 E. SANDFORD BLVD, MOUNT VERNON, NY
Sexy – Masters of Ceremony – #36 Ego Trips Book Of Rap List – Hip-Hops Greatest Hits By Year (1987)
914-663-1400 or
Before Puba joined two other solo emcees in the area, formed Brand Nubian and brought us that classic, All For One, The Grand Man, with his cousin Dr. Who (AKA TLD) and Don Barron put it down for the 914. This dope dancehall-ready track samples the Isley Brothers who are driven crazy by some sexy lady, and while it primarily courts “the Egyptian queen that’s seen on the Nile / with the brown complexion and a magical smile” (to put it in Dr. Who’s refined manner), Puba can’t help getting into an argument with the girl’s friend and ending up dissing her as well.
914-523-7455 ASK FOR TROY CHESS TOURNAMENTS FOR CASH PRIZES
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
UNDER THE RADAR
BLACK WESTCHESTER 23
ANGELA JOHNSON - UNFILTERED, UNVARNISHED, UN-BOSSED
BY AJ WOODSON
The First Lady of Purpose Music Group, songwriter, producer, singer, and multi-instrumentalist, Greenburgh’s Angela Johnson is the first Under The Radar Spotlight artists we think you should all know about. For 17 years she’s made it look easy: marriage, motherhood, music career, and managing the enviable feat of becoming one of the most consistently sought-after producers and songwriters in independent soul. Something magical happens when a woman arrives and stops being afraid of the resonating fullness of her power and the potential impact of her voice. It can take a while for it to happen, decades even. But, when that internal click happens, that freeing moment in her life when she embraces the magnificence of her flawlessly flawed mind, body, and gifts, new levels of inner peace and creativity are achieved and it’s a thing of wonder to behold. No longer the girl next door or the superwoman who thought she had to be super to be extraordinary, here is Angela Johnson unfiltered, unvarnished and definitely un-bossed. The title of her sixth solo album, Naturally Me, says it all.
In the wake of the many senseless deaths of young African-American males nationwide at the hands of the police like Walter Scott, Freddie Gray, Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, Anthony Smith, Dario Tena, Eric Garner, Mike Brown, Akai Gurley, and unfortunately too many others to list them all here, Purpose Music Group’s Angela Johnson sang a ‘Black Boy Lullaby.’ Angela blessed us with her presence and sang her soul-stirring single Black Boy Lullaby - my favorite track - live in the studio on the People Before Politics Radio Show, Episode 37 in December 2016. Whether at the hands of law enforcement or hands of other black males as Marvin Gaye so elegantly sang in 1971 ‘brother brother, there’s far too many of you dying,’ Black Boys are dying at an alarming rate. Angela’s soulful track is just what the black community needed, in these troubled time, an encouraging, inspiring, uplifting melody that pays tribute to our black boys. Written, produced, arranged and sung by Angela, SoulBounce.com describes the ode to African-American young men from her CD, ‘Naturally Me’: “Black Boy Lullaby” isn’t “your average, run-of-the-mill lullaby,” but it is a clarion call for Black boys to stand tall, be proud and to not live in fear. Sung from the point of view of a mother writing a letter to her unborn son, Johnson encourages this young king to never let anyone dull his light but to be aware that there are some out there who may harbor ill will toward him for no other reason than the color of his skin. Angela’s impassioned lyrics are punctuated by her soulful delivery, gospel style harmonies and a bluesy Hammond organ. “I’m voicing my opinions about things that I think are wrong in the world today. I’m being more political, talking about what’s affecting my family and community. I’m putting myself out there, even though I’ve been afraid to. I wanted to talk about things that are relevant that many people aren’t talking about,” says Johnson.
Angela was ever shy when it came to music, a path she’s always taken seriously. Playing piano by age four, violin by nine, and rocking the church as an organist, choir director, and featured performer by adolescence, she went quickly from teenage Baptist phenom to the high school musical star of such local shows as Godspell. The eldest of four, Johnson’s family encouraged her formative years as an aspiring musician through college and beyond. Upon enrolling at the State University of New York at Purchase (SUNY) to further her study in violin, Johnson soon met her future Cooly’s Hot Box bandmates and writing partner, Christian Urich. Together the eclectic soul and acid jazz band landed an all-too-brief deal with Polygram Records, despite a trifecta of international dance hits (“We Don’t Have To Be Alone,” “What A Surprise,” and “Make Me Happy”). Nonplussed, Johnson and the group inked a subsequent deal with Virgin Records in 2002 and released the band’s critically acclaimed debut, Take It. Leaning in before the concept gained currency, Johnson decided to express her independent artistic vision distinct from Cooly’s and simultaneously recorded her solo debut, They Don’t Know (Purpose),while also contributing to the songwriting and production of Take It. They Don’t Know and its radio hit “Ordinary Things” did what Johnson had done since being that big-voiced child behind the organ keys, distinguished herself as a woman apart. While she may not be a household name to many, Anglea has anything to prove to anyone, she is the real deal and I encourage all reading this to check her out. For more information ot to check out her music follow Angela Johnson on her website: www.angelajohnson.com.
MS. IRENE RENEE EVE SOTO
The next sister we think you should all know about is the Sultry songstress Ms. Irene Renee. Ms. Irene Renee has produced and released 5 music videos between her debut, Serendipitous Experience and her sophomore album: Feelin’ Good, Pick Up The Phone, Smooth Step, I Forgive U and NJNO (No Justice No Peace). Collectively these videos have garnered tens of thousands of views on various social media platforms. Pretty impressive for an independent artist. She continues to be sought out for performances and interviews around the world. Detroit Born and raised and now Yonkers based, this Indie Music Super Star – singer/songwriter, dubbed the ‘Princess of Soul,’ Ms. Irene Renee has been compared to some of the greatest 20th century musical talents that we’ve come to love and cherish. With her classic soul voice, wrapped in a contemporary soul musical package, reminiscent of artists like Toni Braxton or Miki Howard. Jill Scott, Anita Baker, Erykah Badu, India Arie, and yes, Phyllis Hyman. June 30, 2017 she released her highly anticipated sophomore album – Ubiquitous Soul and it has already stirred souls around the globe. In its first week it rose to number 6 on the U.K.’s Top 20 Soul Connoisseurs Chart. The music video for the single, I Forgive U has received over 161K Facebook views to date and counting.
Another souful sister we think you should know about is, trained Soul, Pop, Gospel and R&B vocalist Eve Soto, a highly sought out vocal coach, performing & recording artist from Mount Vernon. She is known for her smooth and sultry style, and her timeless music, and her high energy shows at B.B. King Blues Club, The Cutting Room, and other venues in Westchester and New York City. Eve’s introduction to the music industry came from music moguls Heavy D, Dave Hall (Untouchables) and Sean Puffy Combs. Eve has worked in the music industry as a recording artist, vocal coach, recording engineer and song writer with Universal, Sony, Crave Records and many independent record labels and music production companies. “I most recently was asked by Ruff Ryders a record label that started in Yonkers to be their music program director of a program that will take place in Yonkers in 2020,” Eve shared with Black Westchester. “I have already written and presented their music program curriculum and recently we did a video for BET which will be a documentary on the past and future of Ruff Ryders Eve is still performing, writing and helping artists at her Mount Vernon Performing Arts Studio where she gives private lessons group classes. She does Global Skype lessons for students in China, Canada, California, Ohio, Spain, Germany and the UK.
For more information on Ms. Irene Renee, follow her on her website http://www. msirenerenee.com/ For more information for Eve Soto on her website http://evesoto.com/
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24 BLACK WESTCHESTER
WE GOT NEXT
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
M-DOT PORTER MOUNT VERNON
BY AJ WOODSON
We tried to cram as many of the Westchester Music Legends in this issue as we could, both the past and the present. Now I wanna share a few that are they future in this section... WE GOT NEXT. The first one is a brother from Mount Vernon named M-Dot Porter. He first got on my radar when I was ask to testify in his brother’s murder case as an expert witness, because the Westchester District Attorney’s office tried to enter his freestyle lyrics into evidence that he would take out anyone who testified agaisnt his brother. I had to give a Hip-Hop 101 lesson to a bunch of white people in court on what a freestyle is and that while the cleaver word play was deadly they were in no way a danger to any witness or the court. So before I could testify I have to comb through this young brothers Facebook page and YouTube account after the lawyer gave me the link and while I was definately not the intended audience for his lyrics, but being a fan of delivery and flow, I was pleasently surprised. I expected the grimy street lyrics but not that ode to his mom that was a incredible remix of Tupac’s Dear Mama, for her 50th bithrday. I didn’t expect the Black History freestyle, where we spit about many black inventers, the freestyle about how they came after R. Kelly and Bill Cosby but now Woody Allen and Elvis Presly, how these white men never ended up in the fed but they going after Michael Jackson and he dead..., the tribute to Nipsey Hussle after he died... “crazy thing he was about black empowerment, tried to save the hood, but the hood devoured him...” Also known on the streets as Mafy, down with the Much Better Media Group, he displays the lyrical dexterity of the legendary wordsmiths of the hip-hop’s yesteryear. Unapologetically grimy and representing the streets to the fullest like the legendary Kool G Rap. With the help of his team, Much Better Films, M.Dot the self proclaimed King of the South Side has been killing the internet with a series of videos including Freestyle Fridays where he spit a new freestyle every Friday. Follow M-Dot Porter on Facebook @MuchBetterPorter & Instagram @ mdot_porter_mb/ Check out his videos on YouTube @MuchBetterFilms3000 & @TheKingClive/
LORD JUDAH WHITE PLAINS
BY AJ WOODSON
Social Justice and Social Action and Continues to develop creative strategies for translating positive proactive messaging into Art. Judah Bless Ent. Est 2004 Is A HipHop Entertainment Company Specializing in the Many Evolving Forms of Hip-Hop And Music Expression with its C.E.O Lord Judah having over 20 Years of creating Music and Working with Many Various Artist of all Ages. Lord Judah is a Producer, DJ hailing from White Plains New York “ Finally “ is his lead sing to his upcoming album “ The DJ Meets The Producer.” This album will be an instrumental album with a diverse appeal. “Finally“ is his lead sing to his upcoming album.“ The Producer Meets The DJ.” “Finally“ is an ode to making it to another Year having accomplished the things that you set out to do and still being intact with your vision and focus on your greatness. Black Westchester salutes Lord Judah the next generation of socially-aware Hip-Hop artists. For the woke, the woke-ish and those who want more in their music. Follow Lord Judah at www.LordJudah.net and on Soundcloud @cornell-carelock You can purchase his music at https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/lordjudah
LIL WAAH- GENERATION NEXT YONKERS
Cornell C Carelock A.K.A LORD JUDAH has been in love with music since he was 13 years old. Lord Judah got on Black Westchester’s radar in May 2015, when he released a positive Hip-Hop track called Discipline by Lord Judah, Kenneth Chamberlain Jr., Killa Whale and JCA. Like early artists sampled Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr and other, Lord Judah reached out to local activist Kenneth Chamberlain Jr. Discipline, off the consciously aware Hip-Hop album was released by Judah Bless ENT. / Judahbless Publishing. It was the debut album from The White Plains based, Hip-Hop Social Action Collective, H.I.P.H.O.P whch stands for Highly Intelligent People Healing Our Planet which was formed in 2006 as a result of a partnership with a local social action non-profit and a Hip Hop artist by the name of Lord Judah. While others are living out there gangsta fantasies in their lyrics this HipHop Colelctive delivered some powerful lyrics, a complete family friendly sound to educate and uplift the community. The type of song every generation can appreciate. This Unique Social Commentary is well worth a Listen. The group was created as a Social Action model to teach the Hip Hop Generation about Dr.Martin Luther King Jr’s Six Principles,and Six Step’s to non Violent Social Change.Over The years the Group has grown a supportive local following, performed all around its area in Westchester New York,as well as out of New York State. The Collective also helps organize and participates in an annual conference that brings Law Enforcement and youth together to have balanced dialogue. The Group also does voter initiatives to register and educate people about the process of voting for real change in their Communities. On a summer day in 1992 this young man purchased his very own sampler, it was not a top of the line piece but it began the journey and the mission of one young man who would learn how to touch those who hear his music in such a profound way that he would be given the name “LORD JUDAH” because his sound has a majestic feel to it. In his journey he has also encountered many artist young and old who he would build a relationship with musically. Having produced hundreds of songs on a local level and getting various industry exposure from his music he decided that he would give back to the youth some of the very precious and valuable information that he received in his travels. Since then Lord Judah has been teaching his own brand of hip hop appreciation to the youth of his community and beyond, with a style that can be adapted to any school curriculum and molded to assist any goal. The purpose of his classes is to pass along and save precious information, as well as give youth pride in themselves and in their culture’s. Judah says ” in todays era we are forced to move fast and in doing so we deny ourselves the necessary amount of time it takes to process what it is that we are actually going through. “It seems that for most of us that time that we get to slow things down happens when we create or listen to music, so we MUST keep it positive and refreshing for all ears”. Judah is Currently working on a series of albums both, solo and with his group Sun Hot and continues to develop his Company Judah Bless Ent. Lord Judah is a Teacher and student of Hip Hop and music culture. Having been A Professional Teaching Artist of more than ten years He has worked along with many civic-based organizations, schools and community groups, in regards to
BY PRISCILLA ECHI
Albeit “Lil” prefixes his real name, there is absolutely nothing Lil about this young man. He towers over me and seems to have hit an insane growth spurt within the last two years that I’ve seen him. The talent that scores through his veins comes from a lineage of soldiers that has transformed the entire Hip Hop industry. His father, a powerful visionary with the business acumen of a Top Fortune 500 CEO. His uncles, all powerhouses in their own right have created a legacy that we may never see the likes of again in this lifetime. I was first blessed to hear his production talents at the Ruff Ryder studio in Yonkers, NY in 2017. I was completely and thoroughly blown away. It’s incredible to see talent in its beginning stages to where you know if he is this great already Huston, better yet world.. we have a problem on our hands. He’s definitely an old soul that has walked this journey before, and by the time he graces adulthood will be a major force to be reckoned with. His name is Lil Waah, son of Joaquin “Waah” Dean one third owner of Ruff Ryder Empire. He was 15 when we met, and he already had the ear of a seasoned veteran producer. What made him so great in my eyes is although he was obviously great already he wanted to be even greater and puts extra pressure on himself when it comes to his passion. This young man not only has the melodic flavor for you ear with tracks, but low and behold he also is an MC with the energy of his older Ryder brothers in arms! Listen... trust me when I tell you, you have got to watch out for this young fearless phenomenon. He might be classified as a “Young Ryder” at the moment, but considering how incredibly talented he is already. I wouldn’t be surprised if he surpasses the already brilliant teammates. Look out for this young soldier, Generation Next of the Ruff Ryders camp... you will thank me later. Look out for feature on the Ruff Ryders founders The Dean family in upcoming issue. Follow everything Lil Waah & Young Ryders on social media : Instagram: @LilWaahRR @Young_Ryders
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
ENTERTAINMENT
BLACK WESTCHESTER
25
DMX AND NICE & SMOOTH ROCK CITY FEST IN MT VERNON
THE SPOT FEATURING
ANNIE’S DREAM CUISINE
168 GRAMATAN AVENUE MOUNT VERNON
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26BLACK WESTCHESTER
TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2019
BLACKWESTCHESTER.COM
BLACK WESTCHESTER 27
REMEMBERING MARY BUFFALOE - JONES A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. - Ecclesiastes 3:2-8 A Time to be Born... Mary Celeste Buffaloe Jones, daughter of the late Eddie Bruce and Geneva Buffaloe, was born August 30, 1930. Mary was the eleventh child, the “baby girl”, of eleven children, being reared on her family’s farm in Gumberry, North Carolina. A Time to Plant... Mary attended the Northampton County Training School. and continued her studies at Secretary School, where she majored in administrative assistant. At an early age, she joined Roanoke Salem Baptist Church. As a career IBM administrator, Mary provided leadership guidance to executive management in which she encompassed knowledge that allowed them to expand business across multiple sectors. Mary was adept at cultivating business relationships at all levels of the organization. Her professional career spanned over 30 years which were spent in White Plains, NY. A Time to Embrace... Mary loved her Greenburgh/ White Plains community. She was an active member of First Community Baptist Church, White Plains, NY. Mary gave over 30 years of dedicated service to the Order of the Eastern Star, Bright Hope Chapter #46, Magdalene Royal Court #12, and Elejmal Court # 171. A Time to Love... Mary married James Robert Jones. From their union, God blessed them with Damon K Jones. Her husband, as she so affectionately called him Bobby, preceded her in death in 1975. However, her loving memory will continue to reign in the hearts of: her devoted and loving son Damon K. Jones and daughter-in-law, Montika S. Jones of Middletown, N.Y., her grandson, Dazmon K. Jones of Mt. Vernon, NY, her greatgranddaughter Dallas K. Jones, of Mt Vernon, NY, her step-granddaughter, Miesha Stokely, of Mt. Vernon, N.Y., her brother-in-law Charles Jones (Shirley) of Peeskill, NY, her siblings Sophie G. Buffaloe of Seaboard, N.C., Eddie M. Buffaloe (Ruth), of Potecasi,N.C., her nieces Barbara Reagan of Connecticut, Vickie Y. Branch (Jethro), of Murfreesboro, N.C., Delores Bunch-Keemer of Atlanta G.A., Jacqueline L. Coleman-Carmon (Jeff) of Snow Hill, N.C., Carmelitia C. Agee of News Orleans, L.A., Odessa D. Garner of Ahoskie, N.C., Hermenia Young, (Willie) Atlanta, Ga., and Connie Reagan, New Jersey. Her nephews Kenny Buffaloe (Zenia) of Warrenton, N.C., Anthony Buffaloe (Cassandra) of Jackson, N.C., Yusuf Rahaman, Florida, Deon Buffaloe of Fort Washington, M.D., McGarrett Buffaloe of Seaboard, N.C., Eddie Buffaloe, Jr. (Assata) of Elizabeth City, N.C., Armid Jefferson (Kelly), Atlanta, Ga., Anthony Jones, Peeskill, NY, Butch Jones (Sheri), Peeskill, NY, Hasan Culver, Connecticut, and a host of other family and friends. A Time to Die… Mary Celeste Buffaloe Jones was called to sit beside her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, August 28th at 5:30p.m.
VOTmEber
e Nov h! 5t
ELENA GOLDBERG VELAZQUEZ
for YONKERS CITY COURT JUDGE
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