Fall issue 2013

magazine

bronze

Fall Issue

R&B Artist Glenn Lewis Shares a "Moment of Truth"

Fall Fashion: Editorials by DeOndra JereĂŠ Jose Pagan Amina Touray

OCT/NOV 2013

Rebekah Star is shaping the future of at-risk youth one bracelet at a time.

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18 Fall Trend: faux Leather

Do We Want to be Loved or Do We Want to be Right?

19 Fall Beauty Trend: Burgundy Lips 4 | BRONZEMAGONLINE.COM OCT/NOV 2013

Contents Features

16 Cover Story: Rebekah Star is Changing the Definition of Education

8

Glen Lewis Shares a Moment of Truth

Editorials

20 12 Curves in the City

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30

Fall Street Fashion

Muslim Fall Fashion

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THE STYLE LAB | FASHION

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FEATURE | INTERVIEW

A

Moment of Truth with Glenn Lewis

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by Amelia Moore

T

en years ago he told us "Don't you Forget it" (or him for that matter) and 10 years after the debut of that song, you can still hear Glenn's music in rotation on radio, Pandora and Jango. Glenn Lewis, the R&B crooner unlike any other, has not been forgotten.

As a matter of fact after a ten year hiatus Glenn Lewis is back on the scene with his sophomore album, Moment of Truth. Although this is Glenn's fourth attempt for a sophomore album, this is the one that is going to be released Oct 15, 2013.

We caught up with Glenn during his promotional run to find out the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth on who is Glenn Lewis and what he has learned about himself and the music industry during the past decade. The first question I asked Glenn was what's most pressing on his mind right now? In his sultry baritone voice he stated that he has extreme gratitude to his fans and team because he is still relevant. He continued by saying that many times when artists are not active they are forgotten mainly because its the rule; out of sight out of mind. He is extremely thankful that is not the case with him or his music and attributed his relevancy due to his being a music lover. He feels that what he set out to accomplish was achieved. "When you make good music it lasts the test of time.

I make music for music lovers because I love music." Next I asked him to finish the sentence, Glenn Lewis is....? His reply was, "Multi-dimensional." He likes the simple things in life. As it relates to music he is still a fan. He loves so much of what folks are doing that it motivates him to do his best so that he can add to the music scene. I then asked him what does he hope his fans will get from this album? In a one word answer he stated, "Hope." He explained that over time he has learned that belief and understanding of yourself will get you through any challenges you may face in life. He hopes that when you listen to this album you will walk away with a sense of feeling love and relationships. He hopes that the album will motivate you to seek both and most importantly seek balance. Too much of anything is not good but a little of everything with balance is the spice of life.

I then switched the conversation to talk about his background.

As a Canadian, I wanted to know what he thought other Canadian artists should do to achieve success here in the States. He replied, "Study your craft." He went on to say that it's important to know your music genre. He was passionate when he stated that most importantly you need to show respect for your craft.

He emphasized that what you put in you will get out of it. Lastly, know the business. He also gave a mandate that you must understand that the music business is the business of music. It's not enough to know the music you must also know the business. HIs last statement for that question was to strive to be a leader of your craft. What I got from that was that he meant to be original. Don't follow the sound but make your own sound for others to follow. Something he has done very well. One of the most successful artists from Canada is Drake, so naturally I asked if they will collaborate on a song together. He stated that it was a good question and at this time it's all about schedules but don't be surprised if they do wind up doing a song. Imagine that! Glenn still lives in Toronto but is considering moving to the States. "Philly has always been good to me, he says. I lived there once before and I'm thinking about moving back but we will see how it goes." So citizens of Philadelphia be on the lookout; Mr. Glenn Lewis might be living near you.

The conversation/interview continued as we went back to

talking about the album. I wanted to know what were some of the influences or inspirations for some of the songs on the album. He stated that most of the songs on "Moment of Truth" were personal but others were from conversations he would have with his friends and people in his social circle about life and relationships. It was interesting to find that a few songs derived from observation; his watching others and what they went through sparked inspiration for a creation for his album.

In those situations he stated that he would ask himself, 'What would I do?' Each song expresses a moment. His intention is to take you on a musical journey of love and relationships. Each song for him is a conversation like the song Closer. Although it has that traditional Philly sound, Closer talks about the time in a relationship when you want to get closer and consummate the relationship by taking the next step. [As he giggled after that explanation] he spoke about another song, Up and Down, which is a song honoring women for standing by her man. The song lets her know that she is appreciated for the love and respect she gives him and the special bond and commitment they have for each other. His final example of the album and it's conversations is What A Fool Believes. The song is about him talking to his girl about her seeing her girl's man out doing things he shouldn't be doing. "It's me saying to my girl, I know you're looking out for your friend but you need to be there for her. Rather than blowing up the spot, be there when she finds out the truth and support her because sometimes people don't want to hear things and you wind up losing a friend if you're the bearer of bad news." He summarises the album by saying it's full of concepts that are current and conversational.

Now that he is older and wiser I wanted to know what is the most unknown fact about him that he would like his audience to know? It was surprising and refreshing at the same time to find out that under all the suave and sexiness Glenn oozes he thinks of himself as an "Average dude." He likes the simple things in life. He is a whiskey drinker who likes Maker's Mark and appreciates time with family and friends the most. He loves fashion and traveling. He ended the question by saying you will just have to be around him to know him. Anyone want that job?

Still not confident that I had gotten all the scoop on who is Glenn Lewis; today I asked him if he thought of himself as a new jack or a staple within the R&B/Neo Soul music genre even though this is his sophomore album? and why? His reply was so honest. He stated that he felt he was a staple because he got his stripes. Over the years he has seen a lot of angles and twists in the business. Much of which interestingly enough has taught him about himself, about life and his place in it.

Most importantly, over time he also understands the dynamics of the music industry. He said that his experiences has taught him that there is a creative side to the business of music not only the art of it. When he was a new jack he just made his music and wanted to be heard. Now a seasoned veteran he has learned that there is an art to the business as well. The art of how people receive you and the balance between truth and fantasy. That somewhere in the midst of the fantasy there has to be truth so that it resonates with people. Creating that signature, that something special about you and your music that people come to know about you, that is the job of those that are in the music business. If done well your music can become iconic and bigger than you. We laughed at the fact that we the listeners have been enjoying his catalog for so long that it feels

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as if its his fourth or fifth album not his sophomore. He said," Well it's my fourth sophomore album," and then laughed. Hearing his candor and acceptance regarding his musical career without any malice or hatred for the business showed me that Glenn was happy where he is and with who he is. So I had to ask does he feel it gets greater later and if so why? In his Glenn Lewis candor he said, "Yes it does get greater later." He went on to explain that if you feel like you can't grow anymore you are basically dead. He is always open to challenges and loves to learn new and interesting ways to approach life and mix things up, of which those things contribute to growing; all of which result in getting better. Basically being the green apple getting ripe and never the ripe apple getting rotten.

Knowing all the challenges and corporate issues he has had to deal with within the course of his musical career I asked him what was the most important lesson he learned about the music business? He said there were quite a few lessons learned but he could sum them up in two categories. First the balance between understanding self value, self worth and self respect and balancing it out with humility. He explained at the end of the day talent doesn't give you longevity. There are a lot of people working with you behind the scenes that help us as artists get to where we want to be. People don't understand it's an exchange. They help me and I help them. Learn their passions, understand them, know them and share those experiences.

They become valuable to you and your career. People do business with people they like. Don't be your worst enemy, many times artist do that to themselves and their career. The conversation switched from the music business to what he thought was the most valuable lesson he learned over the years about himself. Being the humble person he is he stated with a little hesitation and then said, "With the risk of sounding a little arrogant I have learned that I am a man's man. I have learned the importance of character. I never really had a dad so I had to learn how to be a man on my own. Appreciate the journey of life and that if it doesn't challenge you it doesn't change you.

Sometimes people get so caught up in the problem that they don't spent enough energy in the solution. I focus on the solution." I summed it up that he has chosen to be the valor not the victim. A lesson for all of us to learn.

The next question was for all our female readers. I had to ask if he was single, married, in love what was his relationship status. It was amusing and interesting to hear him say he was tragically single. I asked why tragically. His reply was that he understands and respects all it takes to be in a relationship yet the demands of his career makes it difficult to have a special someone in his life. She would have to be very understanding and patient. He ended it with when the times comes he will meet the right one and waits for that day. So ladies, Glenn just gave you the pre-requisite for being his sweetheart.

As we winded down the conversation and began to end the interview I asked Glenn one last question that I felt would be his moment of truth. I asked him, "Don't you forget it was the record that made most of the world fall in love with you. What do you hope people don't forget about you?" His reply was that he would have to say his music is a conscious decision to be the voice of certain situations, almost like a relationship therapist.

That his concepts might encourage, empower or help others understand that life is a challenge and that an optimistic attitude is what you need to succeed in life. "I want people to feel they have a friend even if they feel alone. Helping them find a

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standard when they might not have one or know how to create one. I also hope that my music might help with conversations using my songs as the beginning or give them the words they need to express their feelings. I would like to be known for that contribution through my music."

My last question was if he felt his 10 year hiatus makes this album a comeback or a continuation? Although he felt that many would look at it as a comeback he felt himself that this album is a continuation of everything he continues to do daily which is listen, watch and learn and make music reflecting those lessons.

Glenn Lewis the artist, the man, the musician has evolved through the life of hard knocks. Like any champion the lesson is when you are knocked down get back up and don't get knocked out. He's focused, honest with himself and his music.

All of that to me has made Glenn Lewis a champion of himself and he has many moore rounds to fight before he loses this game we call the music business. Seasoned and secure we have a lot of love to learn from this outspoken gentle giant whose legacy has only begun. His voice and music is about to be global all over again, Glenn Lewis' Moment of Truth is that the truth will set you free! ■

the new album october 15, 2013

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EDITORIAL | PHOTOGRAPHY

Mocha

Jezra

Photographer: E LeBron Pryor Models: Mocha Mercilus Malinda Bell Jezra Matthews Make-Up Artist: Aida Hernandez

Curves in

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Malinda

t he Cit y ...

Photographer: E LeBron Pryor Models: Mocha Mercilus Malinda Bell Jezra Matthews Make-Up Artist: Aida Hernandez

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Photographer: E LeBron Pryor Models: Mocha Mercilus Malinda Bell Jezra Matthews Make-Up Artist: Aida Hernandez

FEATURE | INTERVIEW

h a k e b e R r a t S g n i g n a h C the n o i t i n i f De of

n o i t a c u

Ed

by Shawn Chavis Editor in Chief

Makeup and Hair by Melissa Hibbert, Beauty Expert & Founder of SHEEQ Cosmetics.

Photography by Rameses Abdullah.

Rebekah Star is on a continuous mission for change. When we first caught up with the social activist/ entrepreneur over a year ago, Star was creating global change within underserved communities one t-shirt at a time through her philanthropic apparel company Change the Definition. First started as a project to fund non-profits that help to educate kids, the company’s mission is to change the path of high risk students through sales of apparel and accessories. There’s no mistaking the powerful message behind their popular global empowerment t-shirt; a logo bearing the shape of a globe surrounding a “power to the people” fist. The company has since added bracelets for (change), which have quickly become their best selling item. “Our bracelets for (change): give consumers the opportunity to support change in America by putting their money

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into our educational projects,” explains Star. “Wearing it will help to advertise our cause and spread the word about what we’re doing.” The beaded stretch bracelets are made out of genuine stones with a hand engraved sterling silver charm containing their (change): logo.For Rebekah, changing the definition means viewing and addressing those social issues on a grander scale that need to be tackled through education such as the eradication of illiteracy, which she strongly believes should start with kids at the elementary level. As a result, one of her first goals is to create successful readers. When asked why this issue is so important to her Rebekah explains how startling statistics from the U.S. Dept. of Education demand a call to action, showing that if children are not reading proficiently by the 3rd grade, 66% of them will end up incarcerated or in poverty. With 25% of kids who live in poverty not reading proficiently in our public school systems or even owning a book for that matter, Rebekah believes that these kids are at a disadvantage from the start.

One way in which Change the Definition has made a difference in fighting illiteracy is through their recently piloted summer reading program. They enrolled 31 children who had fallen behind in reading in the project. The program’s curriculum was customized to meet each student at their current level of achievement. Rebekah’s excitement is apparent as she talks about the program, “It was so much fun! There were some kids that didn’t even know their ABCs, but by the end of the program these kids were able to identify letters, sounds, and words and read simple sentences.” The students who participated in the program will have their reading progression tracked over the next year and the results will be compared to those who were not in the program. “We are creating readers, which cuts down on crime and saves tax payers millions of dollars! Says Rebekah. I’m looking forward to spreading my wings and expanding our literacy project to many schools throughout America.”

Future plans for Change the Definition include getting their bracelets for (change): into major department stores. Also in the works are plans to partner with former NBA basketball player, Jamel Thomas, who authored the book The Beautiful Struggle. Rebekah strongly believes kids will be able to identify with the book as it relates to Thomas’ journey and struggles to get where he is today. “I strongly believe that Jamel and I will make a difference in these kids and help them to become better readers by using his book as a platform,” says Rebekah, as she looks forward to embarking on their new project.

When asked, what is the main message that you want people to take away from your mission?

Rebekah responded with, “I want folks to understand that it is up to us to create the community that we want. We should be proactive, rather than reactive or passive. If we don’t have the time to give, make sure we are putting our resources in companies that support the community or causes we believe in. We can change the definition of at-risk kids by just doing small things, like wearing a bracelet.”

Change The Definition is a movement, a revolutionary concept, a new way of voting with our time and our money. Please visit www.changethedef.com and participate in this movement. Get your Bracelet for (change): and follow @ItsRebekahStar on Twitter.

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LIFESTYLE | RELATIONSHIPS

Do We Want to be Loved or do We Want to be Right? by Angie G.

The

topic of Black women “settling” in order to have a relationship has been a hot topic for some time and has sparked some really intense arguments. It has been endlessly debated and analyzed, and we have come to some very interesting conclusions about what has contributed to this so-called dilemma that we face. I have heard the story time and time again and it has gotten old. I get it. We are losing in the game of love. It’s the story we love to tell. And the more we tell it, the greater the divide becomes. On one side? Well-educated, professional, self-sufficient, and just plain “good” women. On the other? All men.

And the men have their stories, as well. It seems that a quite a few of them hold the belief that as “accomplished” women, we are being too unrealistic in our expectations relative to relationships.

Some just want us to relax and soften up a bit; to stop pressing so hard. Some are just asking for a break. After all, they are good guys who are willing to commit, but because they don’t have huge bank accounts and advanced degrees, we aren’t willing to give them a second look. Others are just arrogant; content to take advantage of our stories about skewed ratios, using every opportunity to exploit women for their own benefit.

For some reason, we just can’t seem to get it together. We have drawn a line in the sand and neither side is willing to cross. It’s us against them and all of us are losing. We don’t seek reconciliation, as most would insist is their intention. We want to air our grievances and justify our positions. We want to be “right”.

As women, we can become so emotionally charged that we often fail to see that we are stuck in our need to complain about what we are missing. We want the world (the men) to know why we are frustrated and why we won’t settle for less than we deserve. We have stopped listening. We can’t hear our men asking us to meet them halfway.

And our men? They fail to hear the pain that fuels our frustration and are often way too quick to dismiss that pain as bitterness. They look at us and see anger. They have stopped listening. They can’t hear our hurt or that underneath it all, we are merely expressing our desire to be loved, protected and valued. And so it goes. A never ending cycle of “he-said, she-said”. We are like hamsters on a wheel; tiring ourselves out with a conversation that doesn’t lead anywhere.

In the end, what do we really want? Do we want love or are we satisfied engaging in an argument we will never win? We have the ability to choose.

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BEAUTY | TREND ALERT

Fall Beauty burgundy Lip trend

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Dolce & Gabbana The Lipstick in Amethyst, $32; saks.com; Dolce & Gabbana The Lipliner in Ruby, $30; sephora.com; Dolce & Gabbana The Lipstick in Ultra, $32; saks.com

Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color, Bruised Plum $49.00 http://goo.gl/YpKqHd View full size image Kevyn Aucoin The Expert Lip Color - Blood Roses $35 http://goo.gl/Tjhlz1

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EDITORIAL | FASHION

Street Style Fall Fashion

Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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Photographer: Amina Touray Wardrobe Stylist: Quela Renee Models: Jhaza Tanner & Dominique Coleman

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EDITORIAL | FASHION

The DeOndra Jereé Collection New Luxury Handbags http://deondrajeree.com

Rosan Mark Tué - $558.00 "Work Stylish"

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Milan Tanadas - $628.00 "The Perfect Everyday Bag"

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Sabré Tafa Mulón - $328.00 "A Night on the Town"

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Ann Tom Tué - $128.00 "Subtle Elegance"

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Dariona Lux Clutch - $298.00 "Glam"

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Braseé Juweyvos - $448.00 "Great for Weekend Trips"

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EDITORIAL | FASHION

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Underwraps Agency presents...

Muslim Fall Fashion

Muminah Qadar Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by Nailah Lymus Photo by Jose Pagan

Muminah Qadar Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by Nailah Lymus Photo by Jose Pagan

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Savannah Uqdah Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by Nailah Lymus Photo by Jose Pagan

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Anisah Imani Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by ChocolateGirl Glow Photo by Jose Pagan

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Anisah Imani Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by ChocolateGirl Glow Photo by Jose Pagan

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Kubra Tan Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by ChocolateGirl Glow Photo by Jose Pagan

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Kubra Tan Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by ChocolateGirl Glow Photo by Jose Pagan

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Anisah Imani Styled by Nailah Lymus Makeup by ChocolateGirl Glow Photo by Jose Pagan

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Owner of Underwraps Agency Nailah Lymus Makeup by Herself Photo by Jose Pagan