Bleu Magazine Issue 25- French Montana

MEN’S FASHION+ENTERTAINMENT+FITNESS+CULTURE

CHEERS! 20 BEST NYC BARS

BOMBSHELL:

DENISE VASI ALSO...

UNFILTERED

MICHAEL LETTEROUGH EDWIN HODGES TIFFANY HADDISH

THE FRENCH MONTANA REVOLUTION: EYES ON THE THRONE ISSUE 25

bleumagazine.com

ISSUE 25

BLEU

1

1

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

2

3

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

4

Ó CUESTION TEQUILA CUESTIÓN. EVERYTHING.

ASK YOURSELF THIS

Ó CUESTION WHEN WILL I TRY IT? AGED IN JACK DANIEL’S AMERICAN OAK BARRELS MORE GOLD MEDALS THAN PATRÓN

5

BLEU

CUESTIÓN TEQUILA IS MADE OF THE FINEST BLUE WEBER AGAVE AND IMPORTED THROUGH NASHVILLE, TN. CUESTIÓN EVERYTHING YOU KNOW ABOUT TEQUILA. LEARN MORE AT CUESTIONSPIRITS.COM ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

6

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Team Bleu Publisher & Creative Director

DéVon Christopher Johnson

“I done kept it real from the jump Living at my mama’s house we’d argue every month Nigga, I was trying to get it on my own Working all night, traffic on the way home And my uncle calling me like “Where ya at?

I gave you the keys told ya bring it right back” Nigga, I just think its funny how it goes Now I’m on the road, half a million for a show And we...

Art Director

Carlton J. Brown

Editor

Rae Holdiay

Managing Editor

Reginald Larkin

Online Editor

Started from the bottom now we’re here Started from the bottom now my whole team fucking here Started from the bottom now we’re here Started from the bottom now the whole team here, nigga

Erica Vain

Contributing Editors

Owen Ducket, Khalifiah Harris, Rich Phillip, Kent Owen, Larryse Brown, Prince Riley

DRAKE, “STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM”

Food & Drink Editor

Travis Jenkins

This is the 25th issue of Bleu Magazine. As I look back, I think about all the support and encouragement I have had over the years. Friends and family believing in a dream and offering their advice, support and love - even when they didn’t totally understand what I was working on.

Assistant to the Publisher

Regi Booker

Contributing Writers

Summer Alexander, Kirsten Lewis, Whitly Garderner, Lamont Wilson, Shawn Thomas

Cover: Photography Jerome Shaw/ Styled

by Dion Stewart/ Assistant Stylist Keith “Pika” Holmes

Contributing Photographers

Patrick Neree, Elton Anderson, Jerome Shaw

Interns

Terrell Allen, Nia Blackmon, Brianca Minerve, Massiel Peralta

BleuLife Media & Entertainment CEO & President

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Legal & Business Affairs

Thomas J. Wilson, Esq. Golen Eiseman Assor Bell & Peskoe LLP

Accounting

Aaron Smyle Smyle & Associate, LLC

Social Media Manager

Kersten Stevens

Account Manager

Todd Evans Rivendell Media 908-232-2021

7

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Integrated Brand Partnerships

Kim J Ford Brand Whisperer Marketing 973-580-4478

Newsstand Distribution

Kable Distribution Serices 14 Wall Street, Suite 4C New York, NY 10005 212-705-4627

But whom I think about most are the haters. These are the people that said this was a dumb idea. Actually, saying it was a dumb idea wasn’t that far off. This shit was not easy. Many nights I ate soup and drank water for dinner. But I’m talking about those who didn’t have the courage to say it to my face. You know, the ones that show up when you’re popping bottles in the club or hosting a VIP event, but when you turn your back they throwing dirt at you. They are the losers that don’t have the balls to try anything but get up every morning and go to a boring ass job they hate.

Well, ha ha ha! We are here now. The whole crew; The Bleu Magazine Team, The Pynk Magazine Team, The Elite Magazine Team and The Dream Team. We have a few more surprises coming up. You’ll hear about those in our 7th anniversary issue next month. For now kick back and check out French Montana on the cover, the beautiful Denise Vasi as Bleu Bombshell, and sexy singer Ravaughn in this issue.

We are only getting better people! Stay tuned… (yeah that was a hint)

DéVon Christopher Johnson @devonisbleu twitter/instagram

Submissions

BleuLife Media & Entertainment 262 West 38th Street, Suite 1206 New York, NY 10018 info@bleulife.com

Bleulife Media & Entertainment Inc. 262 West 38th Street, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10018 E-Mail: Info@Bleulife.com. Online: Bleulife.com Printed in the USA. Opinions expressed by advertisers, columnists, feature writers or other contributors are not necessarily the opinions of Bleu Magazine or its staff.

All advertisements, photographs, text or illustrations are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized to have secured proper consent for the use thereof. Bleu Magazine shall not be held responsible for any errors, loss, expense or liabilities on advertisements accepted after the deadline. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or advertisement in Bleu Magazine is not to be constructed as an indication of sexual orientation of such persons, advertiser or organization. Partial or complete reproduction of an advertisement, news article, feature or photograph from Bleu Magazine is strictly prohibited as Bleu Magazine is a registered trademark. A $25 or 1.5% (whichever is greater) fee will be charged for all NSF checks. All rights reserved.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

8

contributors

EDITOR’S LETTER

“I’m taking my freedom Pulling it off the shelf Putting it on my chain Wearing it ‘round my neck I’m taking my freedom Putting it in my car Wherever I choose to go It will take me far”

Jill Scott, “Golden”

Please understand that you really only have one life. You probably didn’t wake up in new Bugatti and you probably didn’t fall asleep on your private jet (but if you did Ayeeeeee! Enjoy THAT! Lol) You did however, wake up this morning.

You did however, wake up with another opportunity to make today as exciting and productive as possible. And when life gives you another chance to be the best you, you step up to the plate and DO IT !!!

Summer Alexander Summer Alexander is a Motor City native and trained journalist with Bachelors of Fine Arts and Communications from Wayne State University in Detroit. In addition to being a contributor, the fashion and lifestyle maven is also the host of Bleu TV, Bleu Magazines online media channel.

Whitly Gardener

Whitly Gardener is a journalist based out of the “City of Brotherly Love.” A graduating senior at the University of Pittsburg, Gardner is living of dream of becoming a journalist with her interview with SyFy’s Being Human star Sam Witwer. The Philly native describes her interview with Witwer as “enlightening, yet refreshing.”

There’s much more than what Having completed numerous meets the eye with rapper Seth interviews in her fledging career, Narley, I had an amazing time Whitly says this is one interview talking fashion with him! We that she will soon not forget. She discussed his upcoming mix has set her eyes on the big apple tape titled “Chanel Rap” which is and uncovering her next scoop. influenced by his love for mixing high fashion pieces with his urban style.

9

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Reginald R. Larkin II

Kirsten Lewis

Reginald R. Larkin II is a,New York based journalist. A self, proclaimed ”Urban Gentlemen,” Reginald hails from Cleveland, Ohio and graduated from Morgan State University with a B.A in English and a concentration in Print Journalism.

Fresh off of her interview with Katt Williams Kirsten Lewis, Howard University John H. Johnson School of Communications Alumni with a sassy and personable writing style with witty flare. My interview with Katt Williams was very pleasant he was having a great morning and was in a joyful mood. I was nervous initially but he made sure I was comfortable to ask what I needed for the article. Shout out to Katt!

Larkin currently serves as the Managing Editor for Bleu Magazine. When he is not focused on cultivating the editorial voice of Bleu, Larkin can be found reading comic books, studying fashion magazines and learning the words to the latest Kid Cudi release .

This Issue features those who have done just that, and for that we #SALUTE them!

In a world full of distractions we highlight and support those who have focused on the path of blessings and opportunity.

Stay focused today, and lets ENJOY the life we have to the fullest! #BeBleu @RaeHolliday

ISSUE 25

BLEU

10

World Citizen

55

Audi A6 45 - TREND AVE

9 - CONTRIBUTORS

51 - AMERICAN MADE

10 - EDITOR’S LETTER

61 - LES GARCON DE’LETE

13 - IT’S ME, IT’S YOU...

67 - FEATURE: SAMUEL WITWER

15 - THE 20

69 - SPOTLIGHT

17 - GADGETS

77 - FEATURE: RAVAUGH

25 - HEALTH / FITNESS

79 - PROFILE

27 - GROOMING

89 - SCORE

29 - FUEL

91 - ON THE RISE

39 - HARD NEWS

93 - MAN CAVE

41 - ARTFUL LIVING

95 - BLEU LIST

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Mix & Match

83

71

8 - PUBLISHER’S LETTER

96 - ICON 11

19

Bombshell

FASHION HEALTH CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS

35

CONTENTS

COVER STORY

ISSUE 25

BLEU

12

IT’S ME, IT’S YOU, IT’S BLEU

“Love & Hip Hop Atlanta” Cast AT Season 2 Press Reception in ATL Tuesday April 16, 2013

13

BLEU

ISSUE 25

“ASCAP & BET NETWORKS MUSIC MATTERS SHOWCASE” Thursday March 14, 2013

ISSUE 25

BLEU

14

THE 20 NO. 15 CROWN

20 TOP

BARs & RESTAURANTS IN NYC

NO. 6 MISS LILY’S 132 W Houston Street New York, NY 10012 (646) 588-5375 misslilysnyc.com

NO. 9 DASSARA BROOKLYN RAMEN

NO. 7 TRAFFIC BAR AND RESTAURANT

271 Smith St Brooklyn, NY 11231 (718) 643-0781 dassara.com

986 2nd Avenue New York, NY 10022 (212) 813-1595 trafficbarnyc.com

NO. 8 ONE AND ONE BAR AND RESTAURANT NO. 3 SONG

(Thai Restaurant )

NO. 1 JOHNNY UTAH’S 25 W 51st Street #3 New York, NY 10019 (212) 265-8824 johnnyutahs.com

NO. 2 HABANA OUTPOST 757 Fulton Street Brooklyn, NY 11217 (718) 858-9500 habanaoutpost.com

295 5th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 965-1108

NO. 4 123 BURGER SHOT BEER 738 10th Avenue New York, NY (212) 315-0123 123burgershotbeer.com

NO. 5 LAVO 39 E 58th Street New York, NY (212) 750-5588 lavony.com

15

BLEU

ISSUE 25

76 E 1st Street New York, NY 10009 (212) 598-9126 oneandoneny.com

24 E 81st Street New York, NY (646) 559-4880 crown81.com

NO. 16 FOOTPRINTS 1521 Surf Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11224 (718) 265-2530 footprintscafeny.com

NO. 10 CONTINENTAL 25 3rd Ave New York, NY 10003 (212) 529-6924 continentalnyc.com

NO. 11 THE SKYLIGHT SHOPPE 37 E 50th Street New York, NY 10022 (212) 750-0100 theskylightshoppe.com

NO. 17 SOCO

NO. 12 CHUBBY MARY’S 328 E 14th Street New York, NY 10003 (212) 228-2807 chubbymarys.com

NO. 13 RED FARM 529 Hudson Street New York, NY 10014 (212) 792-9700 redfarmnyc.com

NO. 14 NICOLETTA 160 2nd Avenue New York, NY (212) 432-1600 nicolettanyc.com

509 Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205 (718) 783-1936 socobk.com

NO. 18 KATRA 217 Bowery Street New York, NY 10002 (212) 473-3113 katranyc.com

NO. 19 CORNER SOCIAL BAR & KITCHEN 321 Lenox Avenue New York, NY 10027 (212) 510-8552 cornersocialnyc.com

NO. 20 THE DL 95 Delancy Street New York, NY 10002 (212) 228-0909 thedl-nyc.com

ISSUE 25

BLEU

16

GADGETS

TOP PICKS

THIS MONTH GADGETS ARE ALL ABOUT MY TWO FAVORITE F*WORDS, FUNCTION AND FASHION. THERE IS NO REASON THAT SUBSTANCE AND STYLE CAN’T WORK IN SYMBIOTIC MANNER. WHEN YOU THINK OF ALL THE TASKS THE IPHONE COMPLETES WHILE STILL MAINTAINING ITS SLEEK DESIGN, ITS NO WONDER THAT WE CRAVE DEVICES THAT GIVE US WHAT WE WANT AND WHAT WE NEED.

TRAKDOT LUGGAGE trakdot.com

$49.00

STAR TREK STARFLEET IPHONE CASE thinkgeek.com

VINTURI WINE AERATOR redenvelope.com

$3.99

$39.95

URBANEARS SLUSSEN urbanears.com

$19.99

QLOCKTWO W qlocktwo.com

$699.00

HANDPRESSO AUTO handpresso.com

$189.00

MIO ALPHA SPORTS WATCH alphaheartrate.com

$199.00

FITBIT FLEX fitbit.com

$99.00 KORG MICROKEY korg.com

$119.00

17

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

18

CAR

Audi A6

HEAD of It’s Own

CLASS

Words - Terrell Allen At Bleu, we highlight cars of substance, attitude, flaw less beauty and of course one that will help peak any man status to that of elite. Once again, we have had some difficulty selecting the right car to showcase these key elements … that is until we came across the 2013 Audi A6. Notable differences have been made in this model in comparison to others in its class, which pushed it as a front-runner and winner for this issue.

Tough Looks … But Not Too Tough to Look At The Audi A6 body is encapsulated by a sleek exterior that was structurally designed from the outside in, with the focus on every detail of the car carefully mapped out to fit the being of a man. The exterior shows off a bold hard body, one that cannot be confused with any other make or model. The unmistakable LED daytime running lights with their tubular design, along with the Singleframe® grille, immediately signify the presence of the 2013 A6.

Talk about fitting like a glove … The Audi A6 comes standard with finely crafted natural dark Walnut wood inlays designed specifically for Audi. The A6 can be fitted with available brushed aluminum, fine grain natural Ash, or the layered Oak inlays that raise the bar once again in terms of Audi interior fit and finish. The car now comes standard with a BOSE® Sound System or with the option of a Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound system to enjoy the best acoustics. Both the driver and passengers can experience the quality of sound by 15 speakers strategically placed throughout with innovative retractable aluminum acoustic lenses on the front tweaters that welcome occupants upon entry to the A6.

Let me get into what we all care about, which is the performance of the car. The glitz and glamour of it all attracts future drivers like a siren calling a salior’s ship from the vast sea, but what does

19

BLEU

ISSUE 25

it actually drive like? Comprised of Quattro all wheel drive, a 2.0T engine which accelerates from 0-60 miles-per-hour in 6.7 seconds and is mated to the eight – speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The supercharged 3.0TFSI V6 engine delivers 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque to reach 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.

The 2013 A6 2.0T offers the choice of the Audi multitronic continuously variable transmission with front-wheel drive that offers exceptional fuel efficiency and the eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with Audi quattro all-wheel drive for improved grip on all driving surfaces and very respectable fuel economy.

The A6 employs Audi ultra technology through aluminum body panels that provide weight savings and therefore greater efficiency. The relatively light chassis also provides the A6 driver with excellent driving dynamics through corners and over rougher pavements.

As always potential owners can personalize their car with optional features and packages such as the Cold Weather package, which offer heated front and rear seats as well as a heated steering wheel.

Bleu has rated the Audi A6 as a top contender in in its class so be prepared for the ride of your life in this car as you take it out for a spin.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

20

What is STRIBILD? STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. It combines 4 medicines into 1 pill to be taken once a day with food. STRIBILD is a complete single-tablet regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking STRIBILD. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD? STRIBILD can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency.

Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain.

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

21

BLEU

ISSUE 25

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking STRIBILD, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse.

Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

STRIBILD is not approved for the treatment of HBV. Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you: • Take a medicine that contains: alfuzosin, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine, cisapride, lovastatin, simvastatin, pimozide, sildenafil when used for lung problems (Revatio®), triazolam, oral midazolam, rifampin or the herb St. John’s wort.

• For a list of brand names for these medicines, please see the Brief Summary on the following pages.

• Take any other medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, or the medicine adefovir (Hepsera®).

What are the other possible side effects of STRIBILD? Serious side effects of STRIBILD may also include: • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do regular blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with STRIBILD. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD. • Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV-1 medicines.

• Changes in your immune system.

Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking STRIBILD. The most common side effects of STRIBILD include nausea and diarrhea. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? • All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines while taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

• If you take hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc).

• If you take antacids. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD. • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby.

Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD.

STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used as a complete single-tablet regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

I started my personal revolution Talk to your healthcare provider about starting treatment.

NEW STRIBILD is a complete HIV-1 treatment in 1 pill, once a day.

Ask if it’s right for you.

• If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed.

HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Also, some medicines in STRIBILD can pass into breast milk, and it is not known if this can harm the baby.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

22

Patient Information STRIBILDTM (STRY-bild) (elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/ tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) tablets Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

What is STRIBILD? • STRIBILD is a prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before. STRIBILD is a complete regimen and should not be used with other HIV-1 medicines.

• STRIBILD does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must stay on continuous HIV-1 therapy to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

• Ask your healthcare provider about how to prevent passing HIV-1 to others. Do not share or reuse needles, injection equipment, or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them. Do not have sex without protection. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or blood.

What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD?

23

STRIBILD can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take STRIBILD or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis: • feel very weak or tired • have unusual (not normal) muscle pain • have trouble breathing • have stomach pain with nausea or vomiting • feel cold, especially in your arms and legs • feel dizzy or lightheaded • have a fast or irregular heartbeat 2. Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who take STRIBILD. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems: • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) • dark “tea-colored” urine • light-colored bowel movements (stools) • loss of appetite for several days or longer • nausea • stomach pain You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking STRIBILD for a long time.

3. Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and take STRIBILD, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking STRIBILD. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

• Do not run out of STRIBILD. Refill your prescription or talk BLEU ISSUE 25 to your healthcare provider before your STRIBILD is all gone

• Do not stop taking STRIBILD without first talking to your healthcare provider • If you stop taking STRIBILD, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your HBV infection. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking STRIBILD Who should not take STRIBILD? Do not take STRIBILD if you also take a medicine that contains: • adefovir (Hepsera®) • alfuzosin hydrochloride (Uroxatral®) • cisapride (Propulsid®, Propulsid Quicksolv®) • ergot-containing medicines, including: dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E. 45®, Migranal®), ergotamine tartrate (Cafergot®, Migergot®, Ergostat®, Medihaler Ergotamine®, Wigraine®, Wigrettes®), and methylergonovine maleate (Ergotrate®, Methergine®) • lovastatin (Advicor®, Altoprev®, Mevacor®) • oral midazolam • pimozide (Orap®) • rifampin (Rifadin®, Rifamate®, Rifater®, Rimactane®) • sildenafil (Revatio®), when used for treating lung problems • simvastatin (Simcor®, Vytorin®, Zocor®) • triazolam (Halcion®) • the herb St. John’s wort Do not take STRIBILD if you also take any other HIV-1 medicines, including: • Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla®, Complera®, Viread®, Truvada®) • Other medicines that contain emtricitabine, lamivudine, or ritonavir (Combivir®, Emtriva®, Epivir® or Epivir-HBV®, Epzicom®, Kaletra®, Norvir®, Trizivir®) STRIBILD is not for use in people who are less than 18 years old.

What are the possible side effects of STRIBILD? STRIBILD may cause the following serious side effects: • See “What is the most important information I should know about STRIBILD?” • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys before you start and while you are taking STRIBILD. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking STRIBILD if you develop new or worse kidney problems.

• Bone problems can happen in some people who take STRIBILD. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

• Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having any new symptoms after starting your HIV-1 medicine.

The most common side effects of STRIBILD include: • Nausea • Diarrhea Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

• These are not all the possible side effects of STRIBILD. For more information, ask your healthcare provider.

• Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking STRIBILD? Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including: • If you have or had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis B infection • If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STRIBILD can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking STRIBILD. – There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

• If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take STRIBILD. - You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

- Two of the medicines in STRIBILD can pass to your baby in your breast milk. It is not known if the other medicines in STRIBILD can pass into your breast milk.

- Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements: • STRIBILD may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how STRIBILD works.

• Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines: - Hormone-based birth control (pills, patches, rings, shots, etc) - Antacid medicines that contains aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after you take STRIBILD - Medicines to treat depression, organ transplant rejection, or high blood pressure - amiodarone (Cordarone®, Pacerone®) - atorvastatin (Lipitor®, Caduet®) - bepridil hydrochloric (Vascor®, Bepadin®) - bosentan (Tracleer®) - buspirone - carbamazepine (Carbatrol®, Epitol®, Equetro®, Tegreto®) - clarithromycin (Biaxin®, Prevpac®) - clonazepam (Klonopin®) - clorazepate (Gen-xene®, Tranxene®) - colchicine (Colcrys®) - medicines that contain dexamethasone - diazepam (Valium®)

- digoxin (Lanoxin®) - disopyramide (Norpace®) - estazolam - ethosuximide (Zarontin®) - flecainide (Tambocor®) - flurazepam - fluticasone (Flovent®, Flonase®, Flovent® Diskus, Flovent® HFA, Veramyst®) - itraconazole (Sporanox®) - ketoconazole (Nizoral®) - lidocaine (Xylocaine®) - mexiletine - oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®) - perphenazine - phenobarbital (Luminal®) - phenytoin (Dilantin®, Phenytek®) - propafenone (Rythmol®) - quinidine (Neudexta®) - rifabutin (Mycobutin®) - rifapentine (Priftin®) - risperidone (Risperdal®, Risperdal Consta®) - salmeterol (Serevent®) or salmeterol when taken in combination with fluticasone (Advair Diskus®, Advair HFA®) - sildenafil (Viagra®), tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®, Staxyn®), for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). If you get dizzy or faint (low blood pressure), have vision changes or have an erection that last longer than 4 hours, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away.

- tadalafil (Adcirca®), for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension - telithromycin (Ketek®) - thioridazine - voriconazole (Vfend®) - warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) - zolpidem (Ambien®, Edlular®, Intermezzo®, Zolpimist®) Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not start any new medicines while you are taking STRIBILD without first talking with your healthcare provider.

Keep STRIBILD and all medicines out of reach of children.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about STRIBILD. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about STRIBILD that is written for health professionals, or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.STRIBILD.com.

Issued: August 2012

COMPLERA, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, the STRIBILD Logo, TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. © 2012 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. QC15169 12/12

ISSUE 25

BLEU

24

HEALTH & FITNESS [4] MARIJUANA (CANNABIS)

Marijuana use can be used to treat and prevent the eye disease glaucoma, which increases pressure in the eyeball, damaging the optic nerve, causing loss of vision. According to a study published in Journal of the American Medical Association in January, marijuana does not impair lung function and can even increase lung capacity. Cannabinoids like the active ingredient in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (also known as THC), control seizures by binding to the brain cells responsible for controlling excitability and regulating relaxation.

GO GREEN EAT GREEN LIVE GREEN As of recently, the Going Green trend has been ingrained within the American population and plans have been formulated to reduce our individual carbon footprint to protect and flourish our mother earth. Seemingly so, the Earth produce green foods and we are beginning to see the importance of shielding her from our own ailments. It helps us to maintain the balance of not being wasteful as well as bringing nutrition to our minds and bodies. Green is where is at right now and it should be considered as the new black. We have compiled a list of healthy green eats as well as their nutritional value so that everyone could bask in the benevolence that our Earth has provided for us. Eating with healthy leafy greens allows for better diet and exercise for a better you and a better lifestyle.

1

[5] EDAMAME

These green soybeans are a natural source of antioxidants and isoflavones. Adding edamame to your diet will help you increase your fiber intake. Fiber is important for healthy digestion, and a half cup of edamame contains 4 gr of fiber. Edmame has anti-inflammatory qualities and can be a good food to eat if you have arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

3

Vitamin C, K, B, & E

[6] ASPARAGUS

7

Is particularly a rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds like free radicals. This is why eating asparagus may help protect against and fight certain forms of cancer, such as bone, breast, colon, larynx and lung cancers. Another anti-aging property of this delicious spring veggie is that it may help our brains fight cognitive decline. It contains high levels of the amino acid asparagine, which serves as a natural diuretic, and increased urination not only releases fluid but helps rid the body of excess salts.

6

Vitamin A, C, E, K, & B-12

[7] KIWI

Eating kiwi fruit is clearly a healthy choice, and it is particularly useful in these cases: Prevents Asthma, Prevents wheezing and coughing, especially in children. Protects our DNA from mutations. Provides a healthy amount of antioxidants and vitamins.

Helps prevent colon cancer thanks to a high fiber content.

9

Vitamin C, A, & E

[8] AVOCADO

5

Avocados have been shown to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Research has shown that certain compounds in avocados are able to seek out pre-cancerous and cancerous oral cancer cells and destroy them without harming healthy cells. Avocados are high in beta-sitosterol, a compound that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. One cup of avocado has 23% of the recommended daily value of folate. Studies show that people who eat diets rich in folate have a much lower incidence of heart disease.

Vitamin E

[1] SEAWEED

Seaweed is a “free food” when it comes to weight control because it provides only 5 to 20 calories in a serving and contains virtually no fat. Its fiber content also contributes to a feeling of satiety, or fullness when eaten in a meal.

When eaten as part of a meal, seaweed can help balance blood sugar because its soluble fiber content helps slow the rate at which foods are digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Seaweed granules have been tested in the United Kingdom as a flavor enhancer that could replace sodium in snack foods and other processed food products. Cutting back on salt can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, which reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Vitamin B-12, A, & C

[2] NOPALES

Nopal has been studied for its effects on blood sugar levels, with one study published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” in 1995 finding the cactus extracts caused a significant decrease in blood glucose values by almost 18 percent. In studies led by Dr. Maria L. Fernandez in California and published in the “Journal of Nutrition,” prickly pear pectin decreased LDL concentrations and led to a 28 percent drop in total cholesterol levels. thanol extracts from prickly pear cactus fruit and stems were prepared and used to evaluate the pharmacological activities of the plant. The Korean study found that both extracts suppressed paw edema in laboratory animals and had a potent inhibitory effect against leukocyte migration, which is an important mechanism in the development of inflammatory diseases.

[3] WASABI

Wasabi may have developed as a way of flavoring sushi and other raw fish products because of its natural affects as an antimicrobial agent. Antimicrobial agents are responsible for eliminating bacteria.

Wasabi is linked with certain other foods like broccoli and cabbage, which contain a set of chemicals that help to promote liver health. This set of chemicals will enable the liver to better neutralize certain potentially toxic substances that move throughout the body

KING KALE! Words - De’Von Christopher

4

BLEU

ISSUE 25

8

Vitamin C, & A

ALL HAIL

2

25

[9] BROCCOLI

Beta-carotene and vitamin C are important antioxidants that have been linked to a reduced risk of numerous conditions, including cataracts, heart disease, and several cancers. Broccoli is a fiber find. Not only is it a rich source, but half of its fiber is insoluble and half is soluble, helping to meet your needs for both types of fiber.

Broccoli provides a health bonus in the form of protective substances that may shield you from disease.

As an African American who suffers from hypertension, I take the long-term risk factors very seriously. So, I have done my research and made personal changes to my diet to curb my blood pressure. I’ve added kale at least three times a week.

Yes, broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals that have the same health benefits of kale. But broccoli lacks versatility. My mother still prepares it the same way she did when I was an adolescent.

On a recent visit home, I volunteered to bring a vegetable dish for dinner. I called in advance to give a heads up that the dish I was preparing was kale. My mother responded, “Can you just bring broccoli?” After some negotiating at the dinner table, I managed to get

her to try it for the first time. She loved it! She agreed that it tastes much better than broccoli. Now she incorporates in at least one meal a week. She also has done the research on kale’s health benefits and shares what she knows with friends and family.

Greens in general are rich in nutrients. Kale however stands tall above the crowd. Leading scientists and nutritionists say that it is one of the best sources of beta-carotene.

But most of us see Kale on our plates at fancy restaurants as just a garnish; an orange wedge usually accompanies it. Few have dared to take a bite or even slide it on to the fork with our baked salmon.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

26

GROOMING

HAIRCARE

As men, our hair is the least of our worries (unless your going bald). We do not have luxurious strands of golden locks falling from our scalps. Urban men, even more so throw whatever shampoo into their hair and keep it moving, not knowing that hair care is just as important as an other area of the body in part of proper hygiene and grooming.

In Bleu fashion, we decided to share with you some hair care products that will leave the top of your head feeling fresh, rejuvenated and of course clean. Maintenance of our hair has become a revolutionary idea.

Your lady friends will be unable to resist the urge for touching you from head to toe.

1

6. AVEDA MEN ‘pure performance™’ Conditioner 10.1 fl oz - $19.00 33.8 fl oz - $48.00

10. KIEHL’S Superbly Smoothing Argan Conditioner 2.5 fl oz- $7.00 6.8 fl oz- $19.00

7. AVEDA MEN ‘scalp benefits™’ Balancing Conditioner 6.7 fl oz - $15.50 33.8 fl oz - $48.00

11. KIEHL’S Strengthening and Hydrating Hair Oil-In-Cream 6.0 fl oz- $25.00

6

7

8. AJUVÈN 2N1 Shampoo & Conditioner 8 fl oz – $12.00 9. AJUVÈN Hair Growth Stimulator for Men 60 tablets - $19.99

8

9 10

2

11 1. CREW Boost Powder 0.35 oz - $17.99

4

3

5

2. CREW Tea Tree Calming Conditioner 8.45 fl oz - $10.99 3. JACK BLACK All-Over Wash for Face, Hair & Body with Wheat Protein and Pathenol 3 oz tube - $9.50 6 oz tube - $15.00 33 oz - $46.00 4. JACK BLACK True Volume Revitlizing Conditoner with Expansion Technology, Pomegrante & Avocado Oil 12 oz bottle - $19.00 5. REDKEN Cool Finish Invigorating Conditioner 10 fl oz - $11.99 33 fl oz - $21.99

27

BLEU

ISSUE 25

12

13

12. REVITA® Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo 6.75 fl oz - $30.99 13. PURE GUILD Hair Regrowth Conditioner 6.7 fl oz - $39.99

ISSUE 25

BLEU

28

FUEL

Mango Jalapeño Margaritas

Yield: for one margarita, can easily be multiplied

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

2 ounces Grand Marnier

STEP 1: For jalapeño tequila: add 2 sliced jalapeños to a large jar or container and cover with 1 1/2 cups of tequila. Let sit for 24 hours, then strain before using. Keep in a sealed container for a few weeks, preferably in the fridge.

1 1/2 ounces jalapeño tequila 2 ounces lime juice 2 1/2 ounces mango simple syrup 1/2 mango, peeled and chopped 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced salt for the rim lime wedges

STEP 2: For mango simple syrup: combine equal parts sugar and water (I suggest 1 cup of each), bring to a boil and let sugar dissolve, then turn off heat and let cool completely. Combine 1 cup simple syrup + 1/2 mango (peeled and cubed) in a blender and blend until combined.

STEP 3: To make the margaritas, rim the ridge of your glass with a lime wedge and dip in margarita salt. Fill the glass with ice. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, grand marnier, simple syrup and lime juice with ice, and shake for about 30 seconds. Pour over ice and squeeze in lime slices.

I also took a few of the jalapeños from the tequila and removed the seeds, then toss them in the margarita.

29

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Guacamole

CHEERS TO THAT Guacamole Revisited

(Yields 2 Snack Portions) A tweak on an old recipe for guacamole. Now, a blended margarita would be perfect! :

iNGREDIENTS 1 ripe Hass avocado

Roughly mash avocado in a bowl with lime juice. Fold in all the other ingredients and serve with chips.

1 tbsp onion, diced 1 scallion, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 small vine-ripe tomato, diced 1 jalapeno chili, seeded & chopped 1/4 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp cayenne powder 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste

ISSUE 25

BLEU

30

The

one

for me COMPLERA.

A complete HIV treatment in only 1 pill a day.

COMPLERA is for adults who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before and have no more than 100,000 copies/mL of virus in their blood.

Ask your healthcare provider if it’s the one for you.

Patient model. Pill shown is not actual size.

What is COMPLERA? COMPLERA is a prescription HIV medicine that is used as a complete regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have never taken HIV medicines before and who have an amount of HIV in their blood (this is called “viral load”) that is no more than 100,000 copies/mL. COMPLERA contains 3 medicines – rilpivirine, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. It is not known if COMPLERA is safe and effective in children under the age of 18 years. ®

COMPLERA® does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses you must keep taking COMPLERA. Avoid doing things that can spread HIV-1 to others: always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids; never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them, do not share personal items that may contain bodily fluids. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information you should know about COMPLERA? COMPLERA® can cause serious side effects: • Build-up of an acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include feeling very weak or tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold, especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Serious liver problems. The liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and fatty (steatosis). Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice), dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored bowel movements (stools), loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach pain.

• You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for a long time.

In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions.

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and stop taking COMPLERA, your hepatitis may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health. COMPLERA is not approved for the treatment of HBV. 31

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Who should not take COMPLERA? Do not take COMPLERA if you have ever taken other anti-HIV medicines.

COMPLERA may change the effect of other medicines and may cause serious side effects. Your healthcare provider may change your other medicines or change their doses.

Do not take COMPLERA if you also take these medicines: • anti-seizure medicines: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Teril, Epitol); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), phenobarbital (Luminal), phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phenytek) • anti-tuberculosis medicines: rifabutin (Mycobutin), rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin) and rifapentine (Priftin) • proton pump inhibitors for stomach or intestinal problems: esomeprazole (Nexium, Vimovo), lansoprazole (Prevacid), dexlansoprazole (Dexilant), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole sodium (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex) • more than 1 dose of the steroid medicine dexamethasone or dexamethasone sodium phosphate • St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) If you are taking COMPLERA you should not take other HIV medicines or other medicines containing tenofovir (Viread, Truvada, Stribild or Atripla); other medicines containing emtricitabine or lamivudine (Emtriva, Combivir, Epivir, Epivir-HBV, Epzicom, Trizivir, Atripla, Stribild or Truvada); rilpivirine (Edurant) or adefovir (Hepsera).

In addition, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking the following medications because they may interfere with how COMPLERA works and may cause side effects: • certain antacid medicines containing aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate (examples: Rolaids, TUMS). These medicines must be taken at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after COMPLERA. • medicines to block stomach acid including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid), or ranitidine HCL (Zantac). These medicines must be taken at least 12 hours before or 4 hours after COMPLERA. • any of these medicines: clarithromycin (Biaxin); erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab, PCE, Pediazole, Ilosone), fluconazole (Difulcan), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral) methadone (Dolophine); posaconazole (Noxifil), telithromycin (Ketek) or voriconazole (Vfend).

• medicines that are eliminated by the kidneys like acyclovir (Zovirax), cidofovir (Vistide), ganciclovir (Cytovene IV, Vitrasert), valacyclovir (Valtrex) and valganciclovir (Valcyte).

These are not all the medicines that may cause problems if you take COMPLERA. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking or plan to take.

The most common side effects reported with COMPLERA are trouble sleeping (insomnia), abnormal dreams, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, rash, tiredness, and depression. Some side effects also reported include vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, skin discoloration (small spots or freckles) and pain.

Before taking COMPLERA, tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection, or have abnormal liver tests • Have kidney problems • Have ever had a mental health problem • Have bone problems • Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if COMPLERA can harm your unborn child • Are breastfeeding: Women with HIV should not breastfeed because they can pass HIV through their milk to the baby. Also, COMPLERA may pass through breast milk and could cause harm to the baby

This is not a complete list of side effects. Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you notice any side effects while taking COMPLERA, and call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

COMPLERA can cause additional serious side effects: or worsening kidney problems, including kidney failure. If you have had kidney problems, or take other medicines that may cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may need to do regular blood tests.

• Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: feeling sad or hopeless, feeling anxious or restless, have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself.

• Changes in liver enzymes: People who have had hepatitis B or C, or who have had changes in their liver function tests in the past may have an increased risk for liver problems while taking COMPLERA. Some people without prior liver disease may also be at risk. Your healthcare provider may need to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with COMPLERA. • Bone problems can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do additional tests to check your bones.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV medicine.

• Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider if you start having new symptoms after starting COMPLERA. • New

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Additional Information about taking COMPLERA: • Always take COMPLERA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.

• Take COMPLERA with a meal. Taking COMPLERA with a meal is important to help get the right amount of medicine in your body. (A protein drink does not replace a meal).

Stay under the care of your healthcare provider during treatment with COMPLERA and see your healthcare provider regularly.

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information with important warnings on the following pages.

Learn more at www.COMPLERA.com

ISSUE 25

BLEU

32

Patient Information

•

COMPLERA (kom-PLEH-rah) (emtricitabine, rilpivirine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) tablets ®

Brief summary of full Prescribing Information. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information including Patient Information.

What is COMPLERA? •

COMPLERA is a prescription HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) medicine that is used to treat HIV-1 in adults – who have never taken HIV medicines before, and – who have an amount of HIV in their blood (this is called ‘viral load’) that is no more than 100,000 copies/mL. Your healthcare provider will measure your viral load.

(HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)).

•

COMPLERA contains 3 medicines – rilpivirine, emtricitabine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate – combined in one tablet. It is a complete regimen to treat HIV-1 infection and should not be used with other HIV medicines.

•

It is not known if COMPLERA is safe and effective in children under the age of 18 years old.

•

COMPLERA does not cure HIV infection or AIDS. You must stay on continuous therapy to control HIV infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

•

Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about how to prevent passing HIV to other people. Do not share or re-use needles or other injection equipment, and do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes and razor blades. Always practice safer sex by using a latex or polyurethane condom to lower the chance of sexual contact with semen, vaginal fluids or blood.

– feel very weak or tired – have unusual (not normal) muscle pain – have trouble breathing – have stomach pain with nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting – feel cold, especially in your arms and legs

•

33

headache

•

dizziness

•

diarrhea

•

nausea

•

rash

•

tiredness

•

depression

Additional common side effects include: •

stomach pain or discomfort

•

– methadone (Dolophine)

skin discoloration (small spots or freckles)

•

pain

•

•

you are taking any of the following medicines: – anti-seizure medicines: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR, Teril, Epitol); oxcarbazepine (Trileptal); phenobarbital (Luminal); phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125, Phenytek) – anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) medicines: rifabutin (Mycobutin); rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane, Rifadin); rifapentine (Priftin) – proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medicine for certain stomach or intestinal problems: esomeprazole (Nexium, Vimovo); lansoprazole (Prevacid); dexlansoprazole (Dexilant); omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid); pantoprazole sodium (Protonix); rabeprazole (Aciphex) – more than 1 dose of the steroid medicine dexamethasone or dexamethasone sodium phosphate – St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) If you take COMPLERA, you should not take: – Other medicines that contain tenofovir (Atripla, Stribild, Truvada, Viread) – Other medicines that contain emtricitabine or lamivudine (Combivir, Emtriva, Epivir or Epivir-HBV, Epzicom, Trizivir, Atripla, Truvada, Stribild) – rilpivirine (Edurant) – adefovir (Hepsera)

– posaconazole (Noxafil) – telithromycin (Ketek) – voriconazole (Vfend) •

medicines that are eliminated by the kidney, including acyclovir (Zovirax), cidofovir (Vistide), ganciclovir (Cytovene IV, Vitrasert), valacyclovir (Valtrex), and valganciclovir (Valcyte)

•

Stay under the care of your healthcare provider during treatment with COMPLERA.

•

Take COMPLERA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.

•

Always take COMPLERA with a meal. Taking COMPLERA with a meal is important to help get the right amount of medicine in your body. A protein drink does not replace a meal.

•

Do not change your dose or stop taking COMPLERA without first talking with your healthcare provider. See your healthcare provider regularly while taking COMPLERA.

•

If you miss a dose of COMPLERA within 12 hours of the time you usually take it, take your dose of COMPLERA with a meal as soon as possible. Then, take your next dose of COMPLERA at the regularly scheduled time. If you miss a dose of COMPLERA by more than 12 hours of the time you usually take it, wait and then take the next dose of COMPLERA at the regularly scheduled time.

•

Do not take more than your prescribed dose to make up for a missed dose.

•

•

New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure, can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your kidneys before starting treatment with COMPLERA. If you have had kidney problems in the past or need to take another medicine that can cause kidney problems, your healthcare provider may need to do blood tests to check your kidneys during your treatment with COMPLERA. Depression or mood changes. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms: – feeling anxious or restless – have thoughts of hurting yourself (suicide) or have tried to hurt yourself

•

Change in liver enzymes. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus infection or who have certain liver enzyme changes may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening liver problems during treatment with COMPLERA. Liver problems can also happen during treatment with COMPLERA in people without a history of liver disease. Your healthcare provider may need to do tests to check your liver enzymes before and during treatment with COMPLERA.

•

Bone problems can happen in some people who take COMPLERA. Bone problems include bone pain, softening or thinning (which may lead to fractures). Your healthcare provider may need to do additional tests to check your bones.

•

Changes in body fat can happen in people taking HIV medicine. These changes may include increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the main part of your body (trunk).

Loss of fat from the legs, arms and face may also happen. The cause and long term health effect of these conditions are not known.

•

Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider if you start having new symptoms after starting your HIV medicine.

Pregnancy Registry. There is a pregnancy registry for women who take antiviral medicines during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about how you can take part in this registry.

•

are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. You should not breastfeed if you have HIV because of the risk of passing HIV to your baby. Do not breastfeed if you are taking COMPLERA. At least two of the medicines contained in COMPLERA can be passed to your baby in your breast milk. We do not know whether this could harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby.

•

COMPLERA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how COMPLERA works, and may cause serious side effects. If you take certain medicines with COMPLERA, the amount of COMPLERA in your body may be too low and it may not work to help control your HIV infection.

The HIV virus in your body may become resistant to COMPLERA or other HIV medicines that are like it.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088).

COMPLERA can cause serious side effects, including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about COMPLERA?”

Before you take COMPLERA, tell your healthcare provider if you: • have or had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection, kidney problems, mental health problem or bone problems are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if COMPLERA can harm your unborn child.

These are not all the possible side effects of COMPLERA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

How should I take COMPLERA?

– feeling sad or hopeless

•

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

What are the possible side effects of COMPLERA?

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking COMPLERA?

– nausea

ISSUE 25

•

– ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

BLEU

– erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab, PCE, Pediazole, Ilosone)

abnormal dreams

vomiting

– loss of appetite for several days or longer

You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking COMPLERA for a long time.

– clarithromycin (Biaxin)

•

•

– dark “tea-colored” urine

– stomach pain

any of these medicines (if taken by mouth or injection):

trouble sleeping (insomnia)

– itraconazole (Sporanox)

– your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) – light-colored bowel movements (stools)

•

a medicine to block the acid in your stomach, including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid), or ranitidine hydrochloride (Zantac). If you take one of these medicines during treatment with COMPLERA, take the acid blocker at least 12 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA.

•

Do not take COMPLERA if: • your HIV infection has been previously treated with HIV medicines.

– have a fast or irregular heartbeat Severe liver problems. Severe liver problems can happen in people who take COMPLERA. In some cases, these liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms of liver problems:

•

The most common side effects of COMPLERA include:

– fluconazole (Diflucan)

– feel dizzy or lightheaded •

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take: • an antacid medicine that contains aluminum, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate. If you take an antacid during treatment with COMPLERA, take the antacid at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after you take COMPLERA.

Who should not take COMPLERA?

What is the most important information I should know about COMPLERA? COMPLERA can cause serious side effects, including: • Build-up of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take COMPLERA or similar (nucleoside analogs) medicines. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Lactic acidosis can be hard to identify early, because the symptoms could seem like symptoms of other health problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms which could be signs of lactic acidosis:

Worsening of Hepatitis B infection. If you have hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and take COMPLERA, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking COMPLERA. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. COMPLERA is not approved for the treatment of HBV, so you must discuss your HBV with your healthcare provider.

– Do not let your COMPLERA run out. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your COMPLERA is all gone.

– Do not stop taking COMPLERA without first talking to your healthcare provider.

– If you stop taking COMPLERA, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly to check your HBV infection.

Tell your healthcare provider about any new or unusual symptoms you may have after you stop taking COMPLERA.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about COMPLERA. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about COMPLERA that is written for health professionals, or call 1-800-445-3235 or go to www.COMPLERA.com Issued: January 2013

COMPLERA, the COMPLERA Logo, EMTRIVA, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, HEPSERA, STRIBILD, TRUVADA, and VIREAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.

ATRIPLA is a trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb & Gilead Sciences, LLC. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. ©2013 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. CON15584 02/13 ISSUE 25

BLEU

34

WORLD CITIZEN

WELCOME TO THE

DISTRICT C a p i t a l I d e a s , W h e n i n t h e N a t i o n’s C a p i t a l

Words - Kent Olden

Home to what some can honestly argue is the most famous address in the world, Washington DC certainly takes the cake when it comes to satisfying visitors’ appetites for seeing the sites.

A city filled to the brim with stories of a nation’s most basic of beginnings, the “District” preserves the legacies and carries out the dreams of some of the greatest minds and institutions to ever grace this land. That being said, while forever holding true to the lyrics ever-patriotic This Land Is Your Land, Washington DC is a place that was made for you and me, and its treasures are ours to discover…

35

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

36

The National Mall

A promenade of prominence in our nation’s capital, Washington DC’s National Mall upholds some of the greatest legacies that the United States has a hold of. Laced with museums, art galleries, and monuments of the nation’s most influential leaders, the National Mall is a breeding ground for in-the-moment history lessons while enjoying the moment itself. Its gorgeous cherry blossoms are a constant backdrop each and every time President Obama escorts his wife and children across the mall to church services, and will no doubt add to the aesthetic of the amateur photographer trying to capture the memories of any visit to the Mall. Signature Washington DC, the National Mall is indeed a national treasure.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The newest addition to the National Mall, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is an excellent representation of what perseverance and persistence can amount to. After nearly 20 years of planning and preparation, and thanks to the unwavering diligence of King’s fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha, the memorial was opened to the public in August 2011, and is the first monument erected on the Mall to recognize an African American. In a land where everyone wants to achieve the American Dream, the MLK Memorial is, in a way, its own manifestation of Dr. King’s undying dream, and his legacy no doubt lives on.

Howard University

Rich in its own history, as well as the history of the land surrounding it, Howard University is always a fan favorite to visit when in the District. Founded in 1867, the university is the alma mater of such notable names as famed actresses (and real life sisters) Phylicia Rashad and Debbie Allen, David Dinkins (first African American mayor of New York City), and Shirley Franklin and Sharon Pratt Kelly, the first female mayors of Atlanta and Washington DC, respectively. Home to five of the nine historically black fraternities and sororities, the campus boasts fun and flashy Greek plots for affiliated members to frequent, while covering the campus in a rich reverence and humbling history that one can only find among the hallowed halls on the hilltop high.

Georgetown

The historic neighborhood that predates the establishment of the District by 40 years, Georgetown is a melting pot of stately residential neighborhoods, commercial businesses, and entertainment establishments. Take a stroll along Wisconsin Avenue and M Street to find high-end shops, cozy bars, and popular restaurants. The Georgetown Park shopping mall is also a popular attraction, as well as restaurants along the Washington Harbor. As another section of the city filled with history, Georgetown’s famous residents (both past and present) draw huge numbers of visitors every year.

With former and current residents the likes of Thomas Jefferson, Madeleine Albright, John Kerry, and John F. Kennedy, there is no wonder why Georgetown just may be one of the most sought-after addresses in the District.

The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Set on the waterfront of the 300-acre National Harbor, the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center is truly something to experience for anyone whose bank account is set up properly to enjoy the experience. Tucked away in a corner of the entertainment district, the resort features a wide array of its own entertainment, including fine dining, and indoor pool, a 20,000-square foot spa facility, various touring attractions (from Disney, DreamWorks, and the like), and the two-story rooftop Swanky Ultra Lounge. As the self-proclaimed crown jewel of the Washington DC area, I’d say the Gaylord National Resort has a lot to brag about, and rightfully so.

Busboys and Poets

A popular hotspot among the locals, Busboys and Poets is a one-stop shop for arts and entertainment.

With four locations serving the DMV area (two in the District, one in Hyattsville, Maryland, and one in Arlington, Virginia), Busboys and Poets is a venue that provides a platform for live entertainment to thrive. Hosting everything from open mic nights and book readings, to poetry slams and Sunday brunch, Busboys and Poets never disappoints with his amazing dining, décor, and overall desire to please its patrons.

37

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

38

I

The Causalities Words by Larryse Brown

Needless to say, heavy press coverage has been surrounding the recent gun violence debates sparked by tragedies that have electrocuted the nation. I won’t subject you to a dictator-like rant on the subjects of your rights to bear arms as an American citizen, rights that weren’t given a second look just a few years ago. I won’t spout out statistics on illegal guns littering the inner city streets or regurgitate information on gun violence bleeding into suburbia, into schools and unsuspecting movie theater audiences. I only ask that when thinking about the issues of gun control in America, we take the causalities into consideration.

Allow me to tell you a true story.

39

BLEU

ISSUE 25

t begins with a young boy who cloned by others who seemed to have causalities are the endless piles of grew up in Harlem. He lived there what he was looking for. He wasn’t a corpses, really, endless, of Africanall his life and to him it was the killer but it didn’t matter if he was. At American and Hispanic men. The only world he knew. His childhood 18 my brother’s pursuit for respect, causalities are 13 killed at a Columbine consisted of a hypocritical mix my brother’s chance to evolve, to high school and those12 that were in between the rules of catholic schools become enlightened, to be given a a Colorado movie theater. They are that told him he’d be anything and second chance was taken from him in a U.S Navy veteran who served three the rule-less streets that showed him the form of a bullet to the chest. It was tours of duty in the Middle East, a he could only be one thing. He grew done so by another power holder, with Target employee who shielded his up in what was mostly a single parent his mouth proverbially ducked taped girlfriend and her brother with his household. His mother loved him. His holding a gun for a microphone. His own body. This is a story that pleads birth certificate read Steven but when friend vowed to my mother, much to we look at our selves for the problem. he was a little boy, skinny and short, her horror, Butch would be avenged.

This is a story that begs for change in his father called him Butch.

She tried to stop them, it came to no our society.

“Watch him, he gon grow into his avail, and so another one bit the dust.

I suppose it would be easy to call size”, his father said, and he did. But This is a story of troubled youths, of upon the constitutional amendment while his body grew to a 6 foot 2 inch illegal gun control and street violence created by men that lived in a world frame his mind remained suppressed. fueled by imbalanced economic now centuries old. These men were It was suppressed in the way that the oppression, yes. More importantly, ignorant, blissfully, to the issues that slave master breaks his slaves in, so this is the story of the causalities. their great nation would ever have to that the slave is mentally immovable Those causalities are the youths in look in the face and overcome. I can impenetrable, and unchangeable in the cities that shoot guns at each other like imagine it a simple thing for some idea that he his in fact, a slave, even they’re playing a children’s game-the to stand back and thrust forward the after he is set free. ones who go down are only playing tradition of the second amendment You see, to him, because he had no possum. The causality is the child who as the foundation of Americanism. money, he The second had no voice amendment “THE FIRST TIME HE HELD A GUN IN HIS therefore he had is patriotic to no power which some but its HAND HE FOUND HIS RESPECT; BECAUSE meant he had no result resembles respect. I’m not HE FOUND THE POWER OF FEAR... I WOULD domestic sure where he terrorism to SAY HE FOUND THE AMERICAN WAY.” sought respect others. I won’t from, himself suffocate you or others but with facts on he couldn’t be satisfied without it. guns in the United States that’s not is numb to the senses from the pain Never the less the first time he held a my intention. I only ask that when of mistreatment at school and decides gun in his hand he found his respect; thinking about issues of gun control in that her life isn’t worth anything because he found the power of fear.

America, we think of the causalities-of so therefore no one else’s must be Looking back on it now I would say the past-present and those to come. I either. She takes her fathers legally he found the American way. Although registered gun and ends the pain. The ask that we imagine their faces. They the guns were empty threats devoid look like our family, like strangers casualty is the mother at a funeral of bullets he held a gun in his hand we’ve never met and friends we’ve for her 5 year old that was shot in the and used it as a symbol of his power, known forever. chest at a Connecticut school in her of his vulnerability. He would use the They look like us because they are. classroom. She shares the same pain gun as his microphone. He would aim as the sister who attended her 18 year They look like you… it at his targets and with his friends old brothers funeral who was shot they would take jewelry, territory in the chest playing basketball. This consisting of blocks of concrete, the is a story of the causalities that take trivial. You could fill in the blank on many forms. They are victimized and what was taken because what he was voiceless deemed loners, later called really seeking was his power as he psychopaths after their overlooked saw it duplicated by those who were cries for help result in suicide. The respected where we was from. He ones who sought to take control sought his self-actualization as it was of their lives by taking others. The ISSUE 25

BLEU

40

ARTFUL LIVING Question: What started you to become a photographer/artist?

Answer: We’ll I actually started out as a journalist. (Laughter) A lot like you. I’m a former journalist myself but I’ve always been an artist.

I’ve always been drawing, painting, sketching since I was a little boy.

I have a family of artists so it was built into me naturally. It wasn’t until college when I took a photography course that I tapped into the hidden talent. In our photography course the final project was to turn in a portfolio. When my professor saw mine, he asked me what degree was I pursuing in the school. After I told him it was journalism he insisted that I change my major to photography immediately.

(Laughter) after me telling him “no, I’m a writer” he kept urging me to explore photography. I began to take it up as a hobby that took on a more serious role when my brother (Rashod) decided he wanted to pursue modeling and needed me to take head shots of him. That was the end of the beginning. It wasn’t just a hobby for me any more-I was hooked. It was like a drug. I was talking pictures of everyone, of everything. I became an artist.

Michael Letterlough

His work is expressive and the concepts behind the details are so masterfully crafted, it sometimes hides under a guise of being accidentally brilliant.

In Letterlough’s latest art photography exhibition entitled “Legacy: Through the Eyes of a Child” he inspires thoughts of the social conditions of our society and gives a node to our rich history. Featured at 92 Y Tribeca for a month, displayed a gripping portrayal of the African American experience in a way that pays tribute to the greats of its past and greats that are to come. Within his portraits feature the quintessential pioneers of the African American community tied within a generation of youth promoting the idea that the potential greatness is our namesake. It is a trait that courses through our blood and settles itself within our DNA. Letterlough sits casually with Bleu magazine and we listen, as he dishes on his latest photography under-taking that he says is just the beginning.

41

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Question: What sparked the idea of your exhibition, “Legacy: Through the eyes of a child” and what the meaning behind the exhibition?

Answer: Legacy started with a photo-Marion Anderson. (Legendary African American opera signer and one of the most celebrated artists of the twentieth century). The photo appealed to me for different reasons.

One, it was aesthetically pleasing and two because my aunt loved Marion Anderson, she was my aunt’s hero. I had an idea to shot a little girl and incorporate Marion Anderson into the photo. I loved it. I told myself I would do more of them. I would do a gallery exhibit…a tour, a book. I’m a little grandiose (Laughter). I started thinking. I came up with what lens I was going to shot with, what kids would I use, what message would I send?

Question: What role does “Legacy” play in this body or work?

Answer: Legacy is about paying homage to African Americans in our society. We as a nation get to “honor” those people who contributed so much to our history in those 28 days but they need to be recognized 365 days a year. Legacy also talks in terms of generations. I wanted to use kids in my work because kids can show you how to dream.

I mean once upon a time, these great legends were children, who managed to hold on to those idealized dreams into their adulthood. As the majority of us get older start to lose our dream and become bound by reality-kids aren’t. They don’t lose their imagination, their ideologies.

Legacy is how we see these lenses through a child’s eyes. “How does this child identify with the hero/heroin?” It’s looking at the lens and seeing through a child’s possibilities, through a blind faith that I think this world is missing a lot of.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

42

Question: As the man behind the camera, what do you look for when you snap a picture?

Answer: Different elements combined together make for a captivating moment. Some of my best work is the work where it doesn’t look like a stage, it’s genuine. It’s how the person might be moving, the lighting, props, how a woman’s dress may move. Sincerity is what I look for when taking a beautiful picture. I think you need to have an eye for these things. I don’t plan it the people who work with me have to trust what I see. Inside of my head it’s like, there’s a whole production scene going on. Especially if I’m on location I know after I look at something when it’s right.

Question: What is your favorite piece?

Answer: I have two favorite pieces. One of them is Harriet Tubman; “Moses”.

Out of all of the mental concepts Harriet Tubman was one of the only ones where every single detail of the photo was a mirror image to how I saw it in my head. The idea was lofty. I wanted to shot kids in the woods, but my manager Ricardo kind of said “what a minute, I don’t know if the parents are going to let you take their kids in the woods and shot pictures of them”.

(Laughter) My people weren’t too much for the idea especially because it was winter at the time of shooting, but the parents loved it. I remember when we were on set how the sun was going down. The kids were troopers they acted out the scenes so perfectly, they helped to make it the amazing visual shots they were. A lot of people even thought I had backdrops to my picture.

This was real, and the kids were cold as hell. My second favorite is George Washington Carver; “The Peanut Man”. This one is special to me because (GWC) was a scientist so I wanted to portray that. I used a microscope that my uncle gave to me when I was 9 years old, shortly before he was killed and I was traumatized. He gave it to me because he said he wanted me to see the world in a way I’ve never seen it before. So I thought it was a part of my uncle I was putting into this piece. I felt like I was doing the same thing with the boy I was shooting. Between shots he (the little boy) would look at the shell of a peanut through the microscope and say “wow, this looks so weird under here!” That moment was what I wanted from the picture. George Washington Carver used the microscope to discover the world; my uncle gave me a microscope to discover the world and now this young boy who I didn’t know, what discovering something new in it. My uncle was in that shot.

Question: What’s your goal with photography? What’s your endgame?

Answer: I want to be like Gordon Parks-multifaceted, legendary. I want my work to have a life of its own. I want to be that photographer who is everywhere. Magazines, television, any visual art I want my work to be a part of it. I want to do direct films, and publish photography books. I want to turn Legacy into a book. The sky is the limit. I truly believe that. At the opening night of my gallery it was announced that my initial display would be up for only three days. I just recently found out the gallery invited me to extend my stay for a month. I was the first new artist to have a fully curetted solo exhibit at the 92Y TriBeCa Gallery. I’ve worked so hard and yet I haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of my potential.

43

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

44

TREND AVE

ALEXANDER WANG

45

BLEU

ISSUE 25

BALENCIAGA

ISSUE 25

BLEU

46

TREND AVE

CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION

47

BLEU

ISSUE 25

COMME DES GARCONS

ISSUE 25

BLEU

48

TREND AVE

ICEBERG

49

BLEU

ISSUE 25

MCQ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

ISSUE 25

BLEU

50

here comes Photographer: Khalifiah Harris Stylist: Regi Booker

TOP

PERSOL

RIGHT

RAY-BAN 51

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

52

RIGHT

RLX

BOTTOM

JOHN VARVATOS

DOLCE & GABBANA

53

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

54

PARDONEZ LE

FRANҪAIS Words - Kent Olden / Stylist - Dion Stewart / Assistant Stylist - Keith “Pika” Holmes

Vest - Public School Shirt - John Varvatos Hat - Mason Martin Margiela Eyewear - Grey Ant

55

BLEU

ISSUE 25

“I wake up in the mornin’ to a fresh start / Let’s talk / Countin’ up the bread be the best part / Yellow Mazzaraati / Coke Boyz license plate / Nice day / Dealin’ through the hurdles gettin’ life straight…” And just like that, French Montana is Ready to Go… ISSUE 25

BLEU

56

Ready to Go…

I spent my day trying to figure out just what to say. Of course this wasn’t my first celebrity interview, and it surely won’t be the last, but there was something different about this one. This was French Montana. This was going to be a cover story. This one had to be different. Every time I questioned the questions I came up with, I silently reminded myself of that episode of The Cosby Show where Claire and her former classmates sat around and reminisced about that one professor that constantly challenged them to “dig deeper!” So I dug, and then, the phone rang…

“Hello, is this Kent?”

“Yes…this is Kent. How are you?”

“What up! It’s French! We just chillin’ in the studio getting’ some work done. So let’s talk!”

And just like that, I was ready to go. The cover story that had me in an invisible frenzy instantly turned in to a casual conversation that seemed more like playing catch-up with a friend than interviewing one of hip-hop’s hottest acts right now.

While I listened to him review new tracks, discuss these tracks with associates, and even gave in my two cents on what they should have for dinner that night, French Montana gave us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look in to where he is now in music and how he got there.

Excuse My French…

Born Karim Karbouch in Rabat, Morocco, French Montana exploded onto the hip-hop scene hit [strip] clubs across the nation when Pop That blared through the speakers of the States. A symphony of syncopated sound, the contagious beat paired with French’s fluid lyrics made the single an instant hit with the masses. Now, with the recent release of his latest single Freaks featuring hip-hop queen Barbie, Nicki Minaj, as a precursor to his debut album Excuse My French, French Montana is making it very plain that he is about to shake up the world. Excuse his French, but this is what he needs to say…

“It’s just a lifestyle. It’s the life that I live every day,” says French when asked about the stories within his debut album. “One day I might wake up in a bad mood and make a song about that. One day I might be with a lady and make a song on that; I’ll be in a good mood and write about that. The album is just all the different emotions I go through on a daily basis.” Set to be released on May 21, 2013, Excuse My French is essentially summed up in the album’s title itself: French begs your pardon, but this is him. This album is his life, and he’s not ashamed. You can either love it, or leave it alone. With a promo tour running from February 26th to March 26th, French gives the fans their own look at how his art imitates his life. “You can definitely expect a full set of my best songs, and a lot of special guests. Just the wave music…the music we love making. It’s gonna be a good time!”

With all the work going in to the release of his debut, French Montana is definitely looking forward to one thing afterwards. “Vacation! You can expect a vacation from me >laughs<. I’m just gonna go clear my mind and come back with a bunch new stuff for everybody.”

French Montana, Featuring…

Maintaining his mainstream popularity, French’s latest single Freaks with Nicki Minaj was released in February, and is already a hit with the masses. “It’s a little something for the ladies. I do so much gangsta music and stuff like that, that I wanted to give the ladies something for Valentine’s Day, so I got with Nicki and did the single. She was the perfect person to get together with on that track. We had a good time.” Who better but Nicki Minaj? With her army of Barbz and Kenz ready to go to war for anything with her voice on it, French Montana knew was he was doing with this collaboration. The fans freak for Freaks, and it’s only right.

Speaking of collaborations, French Montana does have some dope features he wants to pursue. Paying homage to the greats, French recognizes those that came before him and paved the way for artists like himself. “I would say my dream collab would probably be something with Tupac [rest in peace]. He was my favorite artist and I grew up listening to him. I have a lot of respect for the work he did, and it would be an honor to be on a track with him.”

“I get inspiration from everybody: artists like Adele, Cold Play. I would work with them, and give the fans a little something different. I always wanna outdo myself and change it up. I think collaborations with artists like that would be a great look.”

Giving the fans what they want, but something they don’t necessarily expect. It only makes sense.

In the Beginning…

In all the excitement of the start of 2013, French Montana still looks back at everything that brought him to where he is now. From the passion that brought him to the game to the feeling he had the first time he heard his song on the radio, French explains why he does what he does, and what keeps him grounded. “I grew up loving it. It just affects how I feel every day: I listen to it and play it. I listen to everything; all types of music all the time.” Even with all his passion for music, he admits it’s not all for him. “Not heavy metal though >laughs<. I never understand what they’re saying! All you hear is ‘AAAAAHHHH!!!’ >laughs< I don’t know what that is!”

“And how did you feel the first time you heard your song on the radio?”

“It was a beautiful thing. You work so hard to get somewhere, then you see [something like] that and you just feel good. Seeing all your hard work become reality really makes you feel like you’re doing it.”

French’s passion for the music is so great that he doesn’t even know what he would be doing if it wasn’t for his music. “To be honest with you, I don’t even know. I don’t know what I’d be doing [if it wasn’t music]. Just rolling with the punches I guess.

Music is always what I wanted to do, and I’m just blessed to be able to do what I always wanted to do.” I heard somewhere once that if you do what you love, you’ll never have to go to work a day in your life. French Montana definitely has that covered, although it isn’t always fun and games. When I asked him the best and worst part of being French Montana, he broke it down like this, “It’s a gift and a curse, you know? God never gives you something without taking something away.

It’s just up to you to keep your head up and realize that you’re blessed. Just stand up and roll with the punches.”

A Word to the Wise…

Behind the all gangster lyrics, club bangers, and hip-hop lifestyle, French Montana has shown himself to be a vessel of knowledge for those who will listen. From his own humble beginnings in Morocco to his superstardom of today, he knows the path to take to pursue your dreams, and he has these words for all those who refuse to give up on theirs: “Always believe in yourself, and stop looking for people to help you help yourself.

When it comes right down to it, you need to know how to help yourself by yourself because sometimes there won’t be people there to lean on. You have to hold yourself up when nobody else can.”

You have to hold yourself up when nobody else can. I think Beyoncé’s stage manager said it best in her documentary with “Nobody needs to help muthaf*ckin Frank be Frank!” And that, in a nutshell, sums up Montana’s French. He got himself to where he is in the game now. You may not always like what he has to say, but please excuse his French, because he’s going to say it anyway. Now… POP THAT! Are you ready for your French lesson? Follow French Montana on Twitter @ FrencHMonTanA for the latest updates on his Excuse My French Tour. Don’t forget to follow me @HumblyVain and Bleu Magazine @BleuMagazine for the latest in Bleu News!

EXCUSE MY FRENCH is set for release on May 21, 2013. The EXCUSE MY FRENCH TOUR starts February 26, 2013 and runs until March 26, 2013. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.FrenchMontanaMusic.com.

French also draws inspiration from the most unexpected of colleagues. Contributing to maintaining an eclectic diversity that will always keep French fresh, he explains,

Hoodie - Y-3

57

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

58

ing h t e m o s ou g away. y s e v i g r e in v h t e e n m d o o s G ing k a t t u o h wit

Jacket - Toure Fashions Jeans - Seven Boots - Timberland Eyewear - Grey Ant Shirt - John Varvatos Belt - Louis Vuitton

59

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

60

fashion Shirt - Zara Pants - Forever21 Swater - Banana Rebublic

LES GARCON DE Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ETE

Shirts - Aero Sweater - Forever21 Pants - Larry Underwood Shoes - Converse Shirt - J. Crew Sweater - Vintage Jeans - Converse Shoes - Converse

Stylist - Sequin Lee / Photography - Khalifiah Harris

61

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

62

Hat - Akoo Shirt - Akoo Shorts - Joe Fresh Hat - Akoo Tank - Akoo Pants - J. Crew Button Up - J. Crew Shoes - Converse

Button Up - Stylist Own Cargo - Akoo Shoes - Cole Hann

63

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

64

Shirt - Akoo Shorts - Marc Jacobs Hat - Stylist Own Shirt - Akoo Pants - Larry Underwood Boots - Vintage

65

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Top - Dejuan Hightower

Shirt - Akoo Shorts - Akoo Jacket - H&M Shorts - Joe Fresh

ISSUE 25

BLEU

66

FEATURE What was it like growing up in Glenview?

Oh, not too bad. I grew up in an area that belonged to a High school that had a really tremendous arts program. You would have thought it was a performing arts school, but it was a public school. I found myself tossed in with a bunch of like-minded musicians. We used to write music, record it, give each other tapes and play shows together. I would do school plays for fun, but I didn’t really take acting seriously. I took the music thing more seriously.

So how did you end up going to Juilliard for Drama?

Well, by accident really. In high school it was me and a bunch of my musician friends passing tapes around, and that’s really all I took seriously. Unfortunately, that includes grades. So, when my parents were like “Hey don’t you think you ought to go to college?” I was like yeah, but I don’t really see how that’s going to happen. My grades were dismal. So they said “Listen, you like to do plays and such right? Why don’t you audition for the drama divisions of various colleges. They’re usually lenient on grades.” The next thing I know I’m auditioning for all of these schools and my parents encouraged me to audition for Juilliard.

I thought I’m not an actor, and there’s no chance in hell I’m going to make it into a school that takes 20 students a year. But I auditioned and I got in, which was very confusing.

How much did that training at Juilliard help you with your career now?

Juilliard was the first real training I had. That training had everything to do with putting a lot of detail into thought and into the work. In Being Human I have to be in the 1700’s so we have to create a dialect for that. They wouldn’t have sounded British, American or Irish— it’s a mix-mash. So we worked with a dialect coach to create a dialect, and it was easy because of the Juilliard training. Absolute hyperawareness of who you are as an actor is what the Juilliard training gives you. Then after Juilliard I sought out a bunch of training that was the total opposite. It was about not thinking and going on instinct. Between those two I think I have a lot of tools I apply in different situations.

Did you watch a lot of sci-fi growing up?

You can’t grow up when we did without seeing Star Wars. There was a lot of really awesome stuff to watch growing up. I grew up in a golden age of popcorn movies and stuff. I mean The Star Wars movies, Goonies, The NeverEnding Story, The Star Trek movies; everywhere you looked there were these really competently put together films that were extraordinarily fun.

You can’t help getting into that stuff growing up in that era.

What’s your favorite?

I think it’s probably still Star Wars. I’m still very much a fan of that franchise, and I work with that franchise. That only increases my fandom.

Is it weird being on the other side of the fan base now?

Not really because I’m one of them, so I understand them. I don’t really feel like I’m on the other side. I’m still a fan, I just happen to be throwing some work their way. The one thing that does affect me is I know what they expect and I don’t want to let them down. That’s sometimes a lot of pressure.

When was your first acting job?

Oh, my first acting job [Chuckles]. Well, first I have to tell you I was in Chicago after I’d been asked to leave Juilliard. I went to Chicago to seek other training because Juilliard was all theatre-based and very serious. I had an instinct I needed something opposite. I didn’t know exactly what so I planned to go to Chicago to train, and then when I was ready move to Los Angeles. I didn’t think going to L.A. with no training in front of a camera was a good idea. I figured I’d get to do a lot of acting in Chicago—not so. I could not get arrested in Chicago, no one really cared if you went to Juilliard or not.

Why were you asked to leave Juilliard?

I attended Juilliard for two years. Core training is 2 years, full program is 4 years. I was asked to leave because I didn’t embrace 100% of what they were teaching. I embraced more like 55%. For example, I was really interested in the voice and speech training, but I wasn’t so much into someone trying to teach me how to sing. I already liked the way I sang. I agreed with some things they taught, disagreed with others. It’s really a wonderful conservatory, but not necessarily for everyone.

Before I left, one of the founding members of the school took me aside and explained that I was right to leave. That if I were to stay, they’d take away some things that I have that I need to keep. He said some other nice things like comparing me to some other people who left 2 years in like Kevin Spacey, Mandy Patkinkin and Robin Williams. He said I reminded him of them.

So while it didn’t feel great to get kicked out, it wasn’t without a nice compliment or two.

Those are really nice compliments. They’re all such great actors. So, first acting job?

My first acting gig ever, the first time someone actually paid me to do it I showed up for an audition for martial artists because they wanted Ninjas in a Chicago Bulls commercial. I had a little bit of martial arts training, but it’s not really the pretty stuff.

So, I show up and I faked it. I started throwing out some kicks and some rapid blows and blocks and stuff. When I was done the other martial artists were like whoa, and I got the part. I had to stand up on this stool in this very expensive house in North Shore, IL. When they yelled action I was to leap off this stool, do a flying kick and land in-between a very expensive table and a very expensive couch. Somehow, I did that over and over without shattering the table or breaking the couch. I was walking with a limp for like a week after that. Total faker, total faker.

Is that what led you to do some stunt work on the movie Crank?

No, actually what led up to that was my buddies Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor called me up and said they’d love to shoot me in the nuts on camera. So, I went and they rigged up my nuts.

You have to slow it down in the movie to see it, but I do take a bullet to the balls. So that’s why I have a stunt credit in that Movie. In Being Human I do just about everything. There are some things where I might get hurt. Like, the first episode of Being Human a stunt guy put on a special suit and crashed a van into a metal pole at 40MPH. I don’t mind doing my own stunts, but risking my body for someone else’s stunts is different. Stunt guys have my respect and admiration, but I don’t envy their job.

Is it fun or frightening playing a villain-type character?

In the case of Aiden in Being Human he’s kind of both. He’s kind of a hero and a villain. We have all the marketing data that says no matter what my character does, the audience lets him get away with it. So it’s weird. I’m attempting to horrify them and show that this guy is dangerous and sometimes untrustworthy, but I also play him with a good deal of guilt and good intention.

Somehow that translates into the audience giving me a pass.

Can you tell me about any exciting new roles and projects you’re working on?

We’ve got several more episodes to run on our current season of Being Human and I’m developing an animated show with Glen Howerton [It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia star and Juilliard buddy].

Cool, can you tell me a little bit about the series?

I shouldn’t say, but what I will say it that in our series people talk like they’re in the 1940’s. That’s all I’m going to give you.

The one thing that does affect me is , I know what they expect.”

SAMUEL WITWER Words - Whitly Gardner

SAMUEL WITWER is an American

actor from “Not too bad” Glenview, Illinois. Sam grew up surrounded by the arts. He went to a high school that had an impressive performing arts program.

“You would have thought it was a performing arts high school,” he said. So, the opportunity for Sam to act was always there, he just didn’t take advantage of it.

While Sam was always more interested in the stage than his grades, initially, Sam was interested in all things music. He was in a band with his friends throughout high school, and he is gradually working on new music for his band The Crashtones.

After being persuaded by his parents to pursue acting in college, Sam auditioned for the Drama divisions of many different colleges including Juilliard. For the record, Juilliard is a very prestigious performing arts conservatory in New York City with a 6% acceptance rate. To Sam’s surprise, he was accepted.

67

BLEU

ISSUE 25

After being asked to leave Juilliard Sam went to Chicago to pursue acting. He wanted to find training opposite to what he had been taught at Juilliard. After working hard Sam scored his first paid acting job. He was casted in a commercial for the Chicago Bulls after faking his way through a martial arts audition.

He’s come a long way since improving some karate kicks for Chicago Bull commercials. Sam is now a lead role on the popular Syfy Network TV show “Being Human”. Sam plays a beloved yet dangerous Vampire named Aiden Waite.

“I didn’t think going to L.A with no training in front of cameras was a good idea.”

ISSUE 25

BLEU

68

SPOTLIGHT

Best Ink’s

Cory Hardrict once told me that “it takes 20 years to become an overnight sensation,” as Terrance Howard has said before. As young as he is, I’m thoroughly convinced that Edwin Hodge has invested his due diligence. Fresh off the 2013 debut of his role as ‘Danny’ in the Red Dawn remake, Edwin keeps the party going as theaters everywhere prep to premiere his new film The Purge with Ethan Hawke. Landing role after role, Edwin reminds us just what it means to be gifted (maybe sometimes cursed) with an unselfish labor of love, as the one he has for acting.

Melvin Todd and Jordan Ginsberg

TRUTHS TABOOS TATTOOS Words - Shawn Thomas

In the past, tattoos have been the symbol of rebellion, revolution, and rejection of conformity.

Believe it or not, there was once a time when parents and businesses alike wouldn’t even think of allowing tattoos past the threshold of their household or business. Today, tattoos don’t seem to hold the same taboo sentiment as they once did, instead becoming proud emblems of ink and creativity. They’re a new staple for most 20-somethings (and even some of you 30 and 40-somethings out there), but just because everyone’s rocking a tattoo doesn’t make the work that goes into them any less important.

Words - Kent Olden

READY FOR ANOTHER ROUND

To make something as permanent and personal as a tattoo look good it takes a brilliant artist, and Oxygen’s hit show Best Ink has introduced us to two of the funniest, most unconventional, and original tattoo artists to date. Best Ink’s Melvin Todd and Jordan Ginsberg are here to take us underground into the hidden world of tattoo artistry and let us know just how they’re using that tattoo culture to rebel against the negativity that most other reality stars find their fuel from.

How long have you been tattooing?

Melvin: I’m in my ninth year of tattooing. I’ve been tattooing since 2003 Jordan: I’d say now about three years, but by the show, it was about two years.

What does being on this show mean for you and your artistry?

Jordan: I thought it was a great opportunity to get my work out there, advance or progress me around some good artists, and really push everything to the limit and see what I have.

Melvin: With me, it’s pretty much the same things.

A lot of people watch the show, so naturally we just went there and did what we did, and that’s good artwork. Nothing negative can come from there honestly.

Overall, how has it been shooting the series?

Melvin: It was everything I expected and more; definitely overwhelming. It’s a lot of hard work that goes in there, shooting any series, and I can definitely see that now. I was really impressed by how they put all of that footage together.

Jordan: I definitely agree. You go into it really having no clue what’s going on, and I’m sure this is for a lot of people; this was our first time doing any thing on this level, especially as far as TV 69

BLEU

ISSUE 25

What has been the most challenging part of the show?

Melvin: I haven’t checked the site, but I think me and Jordan are in the top two fan favorites. I just love seeing that, and we’re a team so that really just shows out of everybody, we stood out. That means a lot, but the thing that we aren’t use to is seeing the comments that everybody leaves. As of right now, we haven’t seen too many negative comments, but they’re going to come. Just looking at everyone else’s, the things they’re saying, we know these people personally and they’re our friends, and it’s like, dang man, you guys are being really harsh on them. Just being anxious about people’s opinions once they get pushed our way.

Jordan: Our industry, in general, is really stubborn.

It’s a lot tougher and we’re not as open-minded as most industries when it comes to really being out there. We’ve been kind of a secretive industry for a long time, so anything TV-related, we kind of have to expect some fire back in our face for taking the risk and doing it. So that was a big concern for me, maintaining the respect in the industry. I haven’t seen too much negativity. It’ll come no doubt, but the positive response has been a lot more.

Edwin Hodge is Back at It...

Being a tattoo artist is a less travelled road for many, so what led you to it?

Melvin: I attended Auburn University starting in 2003, and right before classes started, my roommate went to go to the local tattoo shop called The Little Needle to just get a tattoo. They just happened to be looking for an apprentice, and I was going to school to study graphic design, so I could always draw. The boss, he hired me that day, so I kind of fell into the tattoo industry by luck. Ever since then, my artistic nature kind of kicked into gear, and once I saw how great tattoos look on skin, I just wanted to get better and better.

Jordan: I actually got dragged to get my first one. I’m not a fan of needles, so my sister kind of pressured me into getting my first one, and after that I kind of became addicted. I was still going to school and stuff, but I ended up coming back and back, and the guy who was doing my tattoos, we got kind of close and he saw I could draw. So he said maybe you can do this one day. It was more of a joke. That kind of turned into a formal apprenticeship. He got busy one day and he was like, hey I want you to work for me, and the rest was history.

HOW HAS LIFE BEEN SINCE ‘RED DAWN’ HIT THEATERS? Life has been pretty good. I’m working steady on CougarTown and finishing up The Purge. I ended up getting another movie One Heart, and now I’m doing NCIS: Red. Everything is just falling into place for me. I love it!

THE LAST TIME WE TALKED, YOU MENTIONED YOUR NEXT FILM ‘THE PURGE’ WHICH IS SET TO PREMIERE THIS MAY 31st. TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE FILM AND WHAT WE CAN EXPECT. The film takes place in the not-so-distant future and is based on the concept that, basically…well, there’s three points in the year where you can commit any crime without any restitution. My character is on the run from people trying to kill him, and he takes sanctuary in Ethan Hawke’s home. The whole movie is me on the run trying to make it through the night, Ethan’s family trying to get me out of their house, and the killers trying to get in. It’s a story about morale and what’s going on in society right now.

YOU’RE ALSO STARRING IN THE NEW NCIS: RED. GIVE US THE PREMISE FOR THE SHOW AND HOW YOU FIT IN AS ‘KAI ASHE.’ The show is based on a group of mobile agents who travel across the country and internationally. They get hooked up with a case because the ballistics from a gun from a case on NCIS: LOS ANGELES shows up on NCIS: RED, and they need to catch a terrorist. My character takes over two rigs (named Laverne and Shirley) that turn into their hubs/headquarters/office. They’re just a group of agents out of Atlanta that travel fighting crime.

be funny. I’ve never had to do comedy like Jim Carrey or Steve Carrel. Making the transition is what I wanted to do. Throughout my career I wanted to be known as a well-versed actor. I represent myself how I want to be seen.

SO, YOU HAVE THE LEADING ROLE IN A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE AND YOU GET TO CHOOSE YOUR LEADING LADY/LOVE INTEREST. WHO DO YOU CHOOSE, AND WHY? Just one??? >laughs< As of right now, I gotta give a top three: Jennifer Lawrence is hot right now, and period. Sofia Vergara, definitely. And there’s a British actress named Natalie Emmanuel. She’s absolutely gorgeous. I think she’s on Game of Thrones right now. Jessica Parker-Kennedy from Black Sails.

She would be my #1.

YOU KNOW THAT’S FOUR, RIGHT? That’s my top 4! Jessica’s the wild card top choice! >laughs< TIME FOR A RANDOM QUESTION: WHICH MEMBER OF THE X-MEN WOULD YOU SAY YOU RELATE TO THE MOST? That’s a good one! I’m gonna have to go with Gambit. One: he carried a staff; the staff is dope. He was a gambler; I like to play poker every once and a while.

He was just a smooth character. He had this accent because he was from New Orleans, and he was just very chill. That’s how I like to do. He was just a smooth operator.

YOU’RE GOING FROM COMEDY TO DRAMA BETWEEN COUGARTOWN AND NCIS: RED. HOW IS THE TRANSITION FOR YOU AS AN ACTOR? The transition is fairly easy. CougarTown is a comedy, but it’s not really slapstick. They’re natural human beings in regular situations that just happen to ISSUE 25

BLEU

70

DV enise

asi

I

t’s 2:43 pm on a chilly Los Angeles day in April. Dressed in Prada lace up loafers, leather pants, a black T-shirt, and leather jacket Denise Vasi is departing a gown fitting.

She breathes into the phone, “Just about to leave, we fly out May 6th.” Vasi says about filming her second season of Single Ladies.

Vasi joined the cast of the Queen Latifah produced show after Stacy Dash vacated her role as Valerie, the shows lead. After one season the show was without a lead and many wondered what would come of the sitcom.

Issa London gown Melania Trump earrings and ring DKNY belt 71

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Enter Raquel, played by Denise Vasi, many would have been flustered replacing the lead actress of an established show. “Let go of your fear of judgment, because the camera reads that. It does not come over night. You just gotta let go of that fear of judgment and go all the way at it,” says Vasi about stepping into a role. It is that type of approach that secured her position on the show.

Words: Reginald Larkin Photography: Elton Anderson Styling: Alisha Crutchfield Make-up: Heith Chanel Hair: Daven Mayeda ISSUE 25

BLEU

72

The departure of Dash could have

soured the mood of the set, however for every beginning there is an ending.

It is clear that Denise has brought new energy as she and her cast mates are building memories all their own.

“We shot one scene in a strip club, we had so much fun,” making fun of a situation and having to play it serious.

Heading into its third season and Denise’s second, she expresses “I know there will be a lot more grounded material for Raquel, I’m really excited about that. I think we are going to see a lot more challenges in her professional life.” I confess my fan hood for the show and mention “I remember in the season finale, Raquel was chasing a guy, while a man was chasing her.” “Every girl’s nightmare and every girl’s dream,” the Brooklyn native responds with a chuckle in her voice.

Listening to her infectious laughter resonated that in all things Denise related there is this sense of liberation.

“I use a lot of music,” she states in reference to her scene prep. After a few giggles, she shares her latest musical obsession “I love everything on Justin’s new album (The 20/20 Experience). There is a song I think it is called Blue Ocean or Ocean Water.”

We transition to the next question when she erupts “The song is called Blue Ocean Floor!” She adds, “When you’re in the ocean it almost feels like no perimeter. Ever flowing.”

It would appear that like the ocean water Denise is resilient and unbridled.

During her shoot on the beach the wind ceased and there she stood in a floss bikini top and a long Technicolor, chiffon skirt. What is a girl to do?

Untroubled by the turn of events, Vasi makes the most of her situation.

She says that one thing she learned from Single Ladies is to “let go of my perfectionist, not carry the weight or stress. Going in with an 100% attitude all the time.”

Cares aside, Denise proceeds to make the most of the situation, she continues to describe the shoot “I didn’t have 73

BLEU

ISSUE 25

to portray anything else, but pure enjoyment. Twirling around in the sand it was very free.” The showstopper’s effervescent approach to life permeates her personal style as well.

When asked what makes her feel sexy, the actress repeats the questions and responds in a candid, yet confidant tone “Lingerie! Not being in lingerie for anybody else, it’s a piece of clothing that is personal. “She pauses for a moment and states “Just to make yourself feel good.” Vasi’s personal take on fashion is something that came from growing up in New York City and working in the fashion industry as a model. Without a hint of hesitation the former model exclaims, “My personal style is all over the place. Everyday things change, I really get dressed based on how I feel.”

Without notice, a man attempting to get her number interrupts Denise.

She asks me to hold on for a second.

After a brief pause, she returns giggling saying “He is old enough to be my father.” Denise is no stranger to attention from the opposite sex.

Any man with a pulse acknowledges her beauty. When asked what she finds sexy in a man. The self-proclaimed jokester responds with certainty “a sense of humor.” She follows up “It’s the end all, be all.”

It would appear that this leading lady has found her funny man. July of 2012, social media was set ablaze with the announcement of her engagement to director, Anthony Mandler. The starlet proceeds to share with me the details of their first encounter. “We were actually having a meeting at Soho House. He was late, and I turned around and he was taking off his glasses.” There is a hint of jubilation in her voice when she says “Oh my God! I just met my husband!” She points out “It was not love at first sight, it was so much more than that.” The pitch in her voice increases as she says “He is my soul mate, I knew it when I met him.” It would appear that the Single Ladies lead wont be single much longer

“

It’s always gratifying to have other people boost your confidence, but you have to live with your work at the end of the day.

Sandro blouse and blazer D&G pants Betsey Johnson necklace vintage Rolex watch Via Spiga wedge ISSUE 25

BLEU

74

as she is prepares for her next major role as a wife.

When it comes to Denise one word that does not come to mind is confusion. It would appear that she is a woman that knows her mind and knows what she wants. “My definition of an empowered women is a confident women. Confidence is the sexist thing a woman can portray.

She knows her value, knows what she brings to the table,” says Vasi with a regal tone in her voice. She informs me “I think an empowered women has an open mind when it comes to learning from people.” One would have to boast a level of serenity to survive the everfickle world of Hollywood.

In an age were people are baring their bodies and souls for the sake of a reality show or a post on TMZ,

ZuZu Kim dress and genie pants Elle McPherson bra Sequin earrings and cuff Boutique 9 shoes Inset: Elle McPherson bra Vintage print scarf skirt by Antonio DaSilva 75

BLEU

ISSUE 25

one begins to wonder how a starlet navigates her career. “It’s always gratifying to have other people boost your confidence, but you have to live with your work at the end of the day.

I don’t judge my career by others. It’s personal and has nothing to do with anybody else,” says Vasi with the sound of fortitude enveloping her voice.

As we prepared to warp up our interview, I asked Denise one last question. What does the future hold for her? With a smile in her voice she inserts “Its all on the table. I am heading out to ATL for four and half months.

Single Ladies. Wish me luck! Once I’m back in LA, I’m getting married.” On the table indeed, Denise Vasi has an exciting next six months ahead of her and she has a fearless can-do attitude to go along with it.

I didn’t have to portray anything else, but pure enjoyment.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

76

T FEATURE

the Wom3n BeHind the MiC

Words - Erica Vain

RaVaughn who? In the past year, new recording artist RaVaughn has gone from the background to the foreground in the music industry and is poised to BLOW! Nicknamed by R&B superstar Neyo the “New Voice of Women,” no wonder we see her on the fast track to Billboard chart domination. Her style is versatile, honed by doing background and demos for many of music’s elite like Celine Dion, Brandy, Kelly Clarkson, Natasha Bedingfield, Jennifer Hudson and even Nicki Minaj. RaVaughn spoke to Bleu about her decision to focus on singing; who she is and what people can expect from her and her music.

Tell Us “Who is RaVaughn”....

MAN…you’re starting off with a tough one! You might want to make yourself a cup of coffee cause we might be here for a while…you ever heard of Sybil…? Okay, here we go…I am just RaVaughn. I’m CompoundU & Columbia recording artist.

I’m the girl next door here to share her story and touch people’s lives through music! I’m fun, sarcastic, silly, and a lover of life.

How is it being signed to a Superstar like NEYO and being on the roster at Columbia with the likes of Beyonce and Adele?

Being NEYO’s protégé is a humbling experience because he is truly a superstar and more than just in the sense of being an amazing songwriter, performer, and actor… he’s a superstar when it comes to life! He has such a giving heart and a spirit for the people. He loves making people feel good about themselves and I love that about him! And being on the roster at Columbia Records…well that’s just a dream come 77

BLEU

ISSUE 25

true! And if it wasn’t enough to be signed to Columbia I am on the roster with Beyonce and Adele…now that’s just CRAZY! Both of them are so phenomenal! When I think about it it’s ironic that you ask about these superstars in particular because when I look at them and study their success there is a common thread that runs through each of them: they are not afraid of hard work, they are not afraid of being who they are without compromise, and they are all HUMBLE! The company I’m in has raised the bar in the entertainment industry and I plan to reach that bar, to grab onto it and find a way to raise it for all of those who come behind me!

Who are some of your musical heros?

Or Artist that you look to for inspiration and motivation?

I guess I look at different artists for different things. Like I look at Beyonce and I say ultimate performer. I look at Adele and I think songs from the soul, but Aretha I think soulful. Mary J, I think passion…

and then there’s Whitney I simply think the voice! They inspire me because they’re so different but they remained true to what they wanted to express in their music. So, I’m motivated to do the same!

We heard that you decided to be singer (as compared to an actress) because of Lauryn Hill. Tell Us About that.

I actually got into the business as an actress when I was about 9 years old. But, when I heard The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill…THAT blew me away! I knew exactly what I wanted to do. And every since then I’ve been working it out. I studied classical piano. I became a student at AGC (Amazing Grace Conservatory) doing musicals like The Wiz, Westside Story, Grease, and Dream Girls; I joined a few groups; I started doing Demos; I sang background for some famous artists and then…I met NEYO! Don’t get me wrong, I still plan to act at some point in my career but music is what I do…it’s a major part of who I am.

You have hit the R&B scene running with this new single “Better be Good” and mixtape. It gives you that 90’s great R&B feel, are you aiming to bring back that classic R&B? I am!!! And I am so glad that you recognize that in my music… that’s what I want people to feel! I want to go back to a time when music told a story. A story that people could listen to and say, “That’s ME…That’s My Life!!!” I want people to connect to my music the way I connected to Lauryn Hill.

Can you tell us a lil bit about you debut album and what we can expect?

I’d love to HAHA! “Love Always”, my debut album, is the embodiment of the message that I want to share with people! I want people to remember that in order for us to be the best that we can be, we have to love ourselves first and when we truly love ourselves we’ll be able to love others the way they deserve to be loved!

With your single “Better Be Good” you talk about how your significant other has to make you feel. Are you in a relationship? What is your ideal relationship (i.e the type of guy and things he must do to keep you happy)?

Ain’t nobody got time for that! LOL Seriously, my music is my relationship right now. I really don’t have time for much of anything else! But, see that’s a part of me loving myself. I know that if I want a successful career right now…I’ve gotta do what’s right for me. Then, when I am ready to be in a committed relationship I’ll be ready to give myself unselfishly! I’ve been in relationships and I’ve learned a lot about what I am willing to accept and what I deserve in a relationship. So, let me tell you a little bit of what I’ve discovered. I like a man who is confident (not cocky), I like a man who isn’t afraid to dream but doesn’t stop at dreaming, he works to make his dreams his reality ~ that really means he’s gotta have a job, I want a man who wants to be in a committed relationship, I want someone who is interested enough in me to want me to fulfill my dreams, a man who isn’t afraid of my success…and of course he got to be good looking! It might sound like a lot to ask for but it isn’t anything more than I’m willing to give. He “Better Be Good” to me!

We are seeing you step into your own now with your solo effort however you have done work for years behind the

scenes in the industry. Who are some of your favorite BIG names to work with?

Wow, there have been a lot! Seriously, I’ve been blessed to work with some of the best. So, with that said don’t think I’m bragging ‘cause you asked me…there’s NEYO of course, Jerry Wonda, Harold Lilly, Eric Hudson, Marsha Ambrosius, Baby Face, JCole, The Dream, Chuck Harmony, The Underdogs, Stargate, Crystyle, Andrea Martin, Wale, Fabolous, Ricky Minor, Diane Warren, Sam Watters, Harold Lilly, Ryan Tedder, Rico Love, Kara DioGuardi, Andrew Frampton and Steve Kipner, Keri Hilson, Keisha Cole, Leona Lewis, Natasha Beddingfield, Jennifer Hudson OMG…and my girl Brandy! And I can’t forget all of my wonderful people from GLEE. (RANDOM BLEU BITS) Favorite Song: Today ~ Musiq Soulchild Favorit Color: Purple Favorite Place: Home…I miss my bed!!! LOL Who is on heavy rotation on your iPod: Kendrick Lamar Celebrity Crush: Awwwww…you almost got me!

You know a girl’s gotta have some secrets and if I tell you it definitely won’t be a secret. Hahaha.

Anything else you want the BLEU Readers to know??

You can contact me at: Website: itsravaughn.com Instagram: @itsravaughn Twitter: @itsravaughn Facebook:RaVaughn

ISSUE 25

BLEU

78

PROFILE

MARK

the

BLEUPRINT Finding the right graphic designer is a lot like dating. You have to find a person who is willing to accept your brand of difficult and willing to work to craft an ideal union. Through a series of interviews the Bleu staff identified three graphic designers whose talent , work ethic , and creativity earned them a spot in our profiles section.

Words - Reginald Larkin

Q: What would you say is your favorite medium to use?

A: My favorite Medium has always been Graphite. When I was in High School I did everything possible design related in Graphite. It’s just something about pencil and paper together... Not to mention it’s easy to erase and start over! Hahha! I will always have a fondness for graphite.

Q: What’s your education?

A: Well I almost have two degrees. I have the Graphic Design on the way and I almost have a degree in Animation. I would have to go back and take roughly 6 classes and that will be my second degree. A masters degree is just around the corner. I’m still debating on attending UIC or abroad. Abroad would be Switzerland. If I can get there I will never ever come back! Hahah! We’ll just have to see.

MAR SHALL

Q: What do you look to for inspiration?

A: Life and the world are an enormous amounts of inspiration and I reach out to it all! I sometimes step outside to see what the world is doing. Viewing everything from Birds to leafs and even car sounds. I have to have sounds or ambient noise to focus so it’s only natural that I draw inspiration from everything. To go left field I was a Martial Arts Instructor in the Marine Corps and even that gives me inspiration.

I love to teach and learn about fighting and self-defense. As of Thursday I have been given the green light to teach at a local gym on Magnificent Mile “Michigan Ave.” Being able to do that will also boost my creativity. I love doing things and it makes me feel good enough to design and be creative.

Q: Does any music get you in the mood to create ? Any specific artist more than most?

A: Well I used to listen to artists and then I had an awakening experience to music and entertainment and the lifestyle and now I try not to listen to anything with verses. I listen to instrumentals. Some that really get me going are J-Dilla, Flying Lotus, Kool & The Gang, Pete Rock and many more. J-Dilla destroys everyone else though. I really dig his style and when I hear his music I zone out. I even freestyle a little bit here and there. Who knows maybe I’ll jump into the music industry as well! ...On second though pause that. I don’t think I want any part of that in this lifetime...

Q: What kind of artwork moves you? Who are your Idols?

A: I really do not like to idolize anyone or think of anyone as someone I look up to but I still have a few I think were the best at what they did and I would like to be resembled the same way. One specific person is Leonardo Da Vinci!! He his the business!

79

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

80

MAND ELSON

RAP HAEL

DA VIS

Q: So how long have you been doing graphic design?

A: I’ve been a graphic designer for about 4 years now. Once I graduated from university, I worked for a few performing arts organizations where I gained a lot of my initial professional work.

Q: So, how would you describe your design style?

A: My design aesthetic is clean and involves shapes and vibrant colors. Whether it’s professional or personal work, I always incorporate colors. The aesthetic in my photography also incorporates and shapes and colors but more with manipulating my body and negative space within my imagery.

Q: What do you do for inspiration?

A: I enjoy looking through fashion and lifestyle magazines for inspiration. Reusing and re-purposing materials are also ways that keep me inspired. I have favorite photographers and designers that I always refer to for inspiration as well. Listening to music is also essential. I visualize what I hear and reinterpret that in my designs.

81

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Q: How has college helped you develop your style?

A: I see you use way more than photography as your medium.College was a major influence in developing my style. I met a lot of creative and motivating individuals who introduced me to new experiences that was reflected in the art I produced. My classmates became my close friends, and we shared the same interests in music, artists, and ideas. Morgan State University is in close proximity to downtown Baltimore, which opened my eyes to so much beautiful art and imagery in the city.

Q: What kind of artwork moves you? Who are your idols?

A: I’m drawn by mixed media, collages, and vector illustrations. Vibrant colors are and patterns are elements I always look for in artwork. One of my idols is Andy Warhol.His work is a great example of implementing colors to convey his message. I admire his pieces because it fuses both characteristics of fine art and graphic design.

Q: Does any music get you in the mood to create? Any specific artist more than most?

A: Music is definitely an important part of my creative process. I enjoy electronic and folk music a lot. My top five musicians that influence my creative process are James Blake, Tame Impala, Erykah Badu. Toro y Moi, and Broken Social Scene.

Q: How would you describe your style ?

A: I can’t really describe my style per se, when I’m creating my graphic work I try to keep in mind the intent, or goal of the end product.

As a marketer I am always thinking of the target audience, and the characteristics of the demographic. I like to strike just the right note each time I work. Time is the most valuable asset we have, and it shouldn’t be wasted.

Q: What would you say is your favorite medium to use?

A: I play no favorites in mediums, they all serve a purpose, and have qualities that make them unique. Though through my history I have favored digital, only because its where I began.

Ill try my hand at anything.

FLEU RIVAL

Q: What’s is one tip you would give to someone who is interested in graphic design?

A: Dont think you can’t learn on your own. Go out and do your research, there are resources that can teach you the skills for free. Also, ask to be criticized, dont be afraid of negativity.

Understanding how well your message is received is crucial to bettering your craft. I personally tell people to be mean, I want them to not pick, and be honest. The ones who tell you want you want to hear can’t help.

Q: Does any music get you in the mood to create ? Any specific artist more than most?

A: Ummm... Sometimes, but its random. It can be new music, and by new, I mean new to me. I am a big fan of what I call “mood music” music without much lyrics, just sounds. Artists like Funki Porcini, Massive Attack, and Daft Punk.

I have a wide taste for music. I get stagnant listening to one Ur two genre.

Q: What kind of artwork moves you? Who are your Idols?

A: I am inspired by all art, in the traditional; paintings, sculptures, etc. As well as music, fashion, and film.

My idols; Basquiat, Chuck Anderson, Kanye West, and Lupe Fiasco.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

82

Stylist - Regi Booker / Photography - Patrick Neree

Blazer - Uniqlo / Shirt - D.O.T / Shorts - Uniqlo 83

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

84

Shirt - Hawke & Dumar / Pants - Hawke & Dumar / Watch - Nooka / Belt - Banana Republic 85

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Blazer - Uniqlo / Shirt - Hawke & Dumar / Pants - Hawke & Dumar / Shoes - Nike / Watch - Nooka ISSUE 25

BLEU

86

Shirt - Hawk & Dumar / Chinos - Hawk & Dumar / Shoes - Reebok 87

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Tank - Athletic Recon / Chinos - Hawk & Dumar / Watch - House of Horology / Necklace - Ank Man ISSUE 25

BLEU

88

SCORE

S

ome may consider the world of competitive racing as boring, tedious and not interesting at all. But there is a growing population in people in America who loves watching people go 200 hundred miles per hour and constantly making left turns. Here’s seven reasons on why Nascar racing is pretty awesome.

1. Tailgates A nice outdoor activity is usually after a huge cookout with complete strangers talking, eating, drinking and enjoying the fellow Nascar race enthusiasts. Like football Tailgates there are games that are played in the parking lots of famous race car tracks.

2. Speeds and Speeding The average speed limit here in America is around 60 to 65 MPH’s. These speed demons can drive a car up to 160 to 200 MPH on any giving night, which put fans in a state of owe and “I can do that also.”

3. Crashes It’s like the foul of personal foul equivalent in other sports respectively, but these are a lot more dangerous and more severe than anything. Fans do like to see car crashes because its quick and sudden. Like all car wrecks on the streets or freeways they all get a lot of bystanders attention.

4. Beverages or Booze NASCAR is a great way for the working man or women to head down to the track and enjoys a competitive team sport, while drinking a beers. All sports allow alcohol beverages in venues, but NASCAR racing fans enjoy their beers a little bit more.

5. Women The lovely ladies of NASCAR are from different sponsors and are there to serve the customers.

6. The Personalities of Racing NASCAR has over a hundred million dollars of ads from the different drivers and sponsors along the race tracks. Needless to say drivers are paid to win, so every bump, nudge and block out can potentially costs a driver millions, so this is probably the most competitive sport around.

7. Sport People likes sports, where there is a way competition people will watch and that’s what Nascar is about a royal racing rumble and everyone for themselves kind of action. Being an action sport NASCAR brings in a

07

REASONS WHY NASCAR IS PRETTY AWESOME! Words - Lamont Wilson

different crowd that’s welcomed by other sporting enthusiasts.

89

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

90

ON THE RISE

TIFFANY HADDISH Words - Kent Olden My friends always say that you never really know where someone is coming from, so everyone deserves respect. Those very words came alive the moment Tiffany Haddish started to speak after the first questioned was asked in this interview. Rising up from the fiery furnace of foster care hell to starring in network television shows and major motion pictures, Tiffany Haddish shows us what it means to fight for what you believe in, and she owes it all to a ultimatum made by a social worker when she was a teenager: learn to make people laugh, or live a miserable life. Choosing the previous, Tiffany started out at the Laugh Factory Comedy Club to avoid psychiatric therapy one summer. The rest, as she tells it, is history…

WHO’S THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE CAST? Kevin! Kevin’s the biggest diva! I thought Robin would be, or Boris because they look so good…but Kevin is like “Uh…excuse me! Wardrobe! Makeup!

I need somebody to put on my mic pack!” And I’m like “You can put on your own damn mic pack!” >laughs< But if I was him I’d probably be the same way. He’s so funny. He’s being a diva, but it’s hilarious, so no one minds.

I ALWAYS WONDERED HOW ACTORS ARE WITH EACH OTHER WHEN THEY FILM A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT PROJECTS WITH EACH OTHER. HOW WAS IT FILMING WITH NICK AND KEVIN FOR THE ‘REAL HUSBANDS’ VS. ‘SCHOOL DANCE’?

It was fun. I didn’t get to see Kevin that much on the movie set, but Nick was directing, and it was cool. I have the utmost respect for him, and he respects me. We recognize each other’s talent. We laugh, we eat, we do our thing, and we keep going. Nick is great because he just lets you be you.

‘SCHOOL DANCE’ IS BEING RELEASED THIS YEAR WITH YOU AND NICK CANNON AS PART OF THE CAST. TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE MOVIE, AND HOW FILMING DIFFERS FROM FILMING FOR TV FOR YOU. Well the movie is super hilarious, and in the process of making it, it was very different. From the audition, I didn’t really need to because Nick

91

BLEU

ISSUE 25

Seth Narley Words - Summer Alexander On the rise Bronx rapper, Seth Narley, describes himself as a 23-year-old smooth, down- to-earth, kid that happens to love rap and fashion. After hearing his music it’s hard to believe that growing up he was more passionate about making it to the NBA instead of winning a Grammy. “I thought I was the next Kobe Bryant, boy was I wrong,” he jokes during our interview. Although being a hip hop star wasn’t always his life’s dream, his ability to freestyle was infectious, always drawing a crowd making his love for music hard to deny. In 2011 his breakout song “Gripping Woodgrain” featuring ASAP Rocky was released to the public and immediately went viral. Two years later as he releases his first official mixtape titled “Chanel Rap” Seth Narley talks about life, music and sets him apart from the pack.

already knew of my talent, but the difference is the time in between takes.

There’s more time on a film set in between filming. The environment is always changing and stuff. Katt Williams is in it too, and our trailers were next to each other...so with the huge gaps in time between takes, it got to be a little common to smell weed smoke coming through the vents. I was never high on set though! I swear! That was him, not me! >laughs<

HOW DID YOU START RAPPING? Growing up I didn’t really want to be a rapper. In high school I was more focused on playing basketball. During my junior year I met a classmate who was the son of a legendary music producer. After meeting him he happened to hear me rapping one day and invited me to the studio. I took him up on the offer, wrote my first rap the rest is history, I’ve being perusing music ever since.

SUM UP YOUR COMEDY IN THREE WORDS. I approach it like it’s “the best medicine.” It’s my cocaine. It makes me feel good. It just lifts my heart and my spirits, just like when you see a kid playing by himself (like I can hear your nephew right now playing with his imaginary friends >laughs<) and it’s just funny. I just have a good time playing imaginary. I like to act like everybody in the audience is my friend, and I talk to them just like that. When people go out [to a comedy show], they’re going to laugh and have a good time and enjoy themselves. They don’t wanna be cursed out and made fun of. We all just wanna have a good time through laughter. Laughter is the best medicine.

GROWING UP WHAT ARTISTS INSPIRED YOU? My parents are Puerto Rican and my uncle is Tito Nieves, a famous Latin singer. So growing up I mainly listened to Spanish music. Once I was old enough to listen to music on my own I loved Notorious BIG, Jay Z, Nas and Fabulous, He was the most fly when I was coming up. Everyone looked up to Fab style wise.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF RAP? If I had to put in into words I would say urban, soulful elegance. I say that because the beats I rap over are slower tempo and soulful. I rap about my life and put it in flyer terms. Every one has a story to tell, we’ve all been through hardships, I choose not to put it out in a negative way. I try to make it positive. That’s why I incorporate a lot of designers and other things I like because people can’t always relate to your past but they can relate to common interest like fashion or sports.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING PROJECT “CHANEL RAP”/ Chanel rap is my style of music that I am trying to bring to the forefront. I came up with the name because I write elegant hood raps over soul beats.

It’s a mixture of luxury and urban.

WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM OTHER YOUNG RAPPERS TODAY? The main thing that separates me is I’m not trying to replicate anyone else.

I don’t try to rap like anyone else; I don’t follow trends in music or fashion.

I am influenced by older stuff. In my iPod, it’s mostly old music from early 80’s or before I was born. Right now a lot of young rappers like me look up to Lil Wayne because we are so young. A lot of us don’t take the time to go back and listen to older music. I am a good balance between the new and old and Down South and New York.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SONG OUT NOW THAT’S NOT YOUR OWN? Rihanna “Stay” is a beautiful song and Young Scooter “Columbia”.

ISSUE 25

BLEU

92

MAN CAVE

YAMAHA YAS-101 FRONT SURROUND SYSTEM $299.95 USA.YAMAHA.COM

STE RE OS

SONOS PLAYBAR $699.00 SONOS.COM

“All black everything Black cards, black cars All black everything And our girls are blackbirds riding with they Dillingers I get more in depth” - Jay-Z (Run This Town) SAMSUNG 46’ CONVERTIBLE AUDIO BAR $449.99 SAMSUNG.COM

SONY SOUNDBAR $299.99 SONY.COM

BOSE SOLO TV SOUND SYSTEM $399.95 BOSE.COM

93

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

94

ICON

The List ISSUE 25: Marchesa

Urban Outfitters

Herschel Backpacks

Louis Vuitton

Comme de Garcons

Reed Krakoff

WWD

BVLGARI

Gemfields

Hermes

Uniqlo

Calvin Klein

Prabal Gurung

Flower Bomb by Gucci

Band of Outsiders

Alexander Wang

Vera Wang

Rag & Bone Jeans

Marc Jacobs

Saint Laurent

Valentino

Narciso Rodriguez

Mackbook Pro

Sperry

Proenza Schouler

Balenciaga

Astell & Kern

Alexander McQueen

Michael JORDAN

Words - Terrell Allen

Elie Saab

95

BLEU

Tod’s

Tiffan y & Co

Lacoste

Loewe

Miu Miu

Bombfell

Banana Republic

Mulberry

Oliver Peoples

Emilio Pucci

Peter Som

Massimo Dutti

Christian Dior

Michael Bastain

TopShop

Adriano Goldschmied

Nina Ricci

Marni

Michael Kors

Isabel Marant

Rodarte

J. Crew

Prada

Joe’s Jeans

H&M

Dolce & Gabbaba

Jason Wu

Versace

Ralph Lauren

Black Orchid

Chanel

ISSUE 25

3

2

…. ….1! BUZZZZ! As young children playing on the concrete courts of any park we relive this imagery of being Michael Jordan and making that buzzer beating shot, thrusting our hands in the air exclaiming to be him in front of all players in and on the surrounding courts. If and when that shot was made we told ourselves, ‘I would be the next Michael Jordan, for all to see my greatness.’

Legendary … that’s all that needs to be said about Michael Jordan and the empire that he decrees upon under his own name.

For years Jordan has been the go to name when comparing past, present and future NBA players, the talk of the streets with the hottest and most anticipated sneaker releases or whether it being part owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. Being widely considered as THE best basketball player ever to play in the NBA, he has led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles and voted the Finals MVP a record of six times.

Yearning to be close to Michael Jordan is what many basketball player’s dream of as a child and continue to do so upon playing in the NBA to try and match the bar that he has set.

Great achievements from an individual such as Jordan barons much responsibility unto him to share with others that aspire to be just like him. Jordan has been a 14-time All-Star, averaging 20.2 points per game, and became the only player to ever record a triple-double in an All-Star game, which he achieved in 1977. Michael Jordan also held the record for consecutive games scoring in double-digits.

In 1996, Jordan was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History. In a record number, he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated 51 times! His legacy still lives on, well at least on the soles of our feet. Famous for his personalized signature of him jumping in the air with a basketball in one hand reaching out and legs spread has been a driving force for the sale of Nike products as well as the hysteria and chaos at sneaker stores around the country and online on anticipated release dates.

Jordan revolutionized the business of athlete endorsements. He signed on with companies such as Wheaties, McDonald’s,

Gatorade, and Nike. Gatorade’s marketing strategy surrounding Michael Jordan brought about the slogan, “Be Like Mike,” which stuck around for years and had millions singing ‘I want to be like Mike.’

“I think he’s God disguised as Michael Jordan,” said Boston’s Larry Bird, about Michael Jordan after he scored 63 points against the Celtics in Game 2 of the 1986 Eastern Conference First Round. That was the thought by many players and spectators of the game as Jordan always moved swiftly, sometimes it even looked as if he was flying.

He continues to accumulate his already mountainous stack of wealth by becoming primary owner of the Charlotte Bobcats in 2010. In the words of Michael Jordan, “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career.

I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

ISSUE 25

BLEU

96

BLEUMAGAZINE.COM @BLEUMAGAZINE

FASHION HEALTH CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS 97

BLEU

ISSUE 25

ISSUE 25

BLEU

98

MENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FASHION+ENTERTAINMENT+FITNESS+CULTURE

THE FRENCH MONTANA REVOLUTION: EYES ON THE THRONE 99

BLEU

ISSUE 25