Worldwide Underground Indie Music Magazine
April 2013
shamel shiloh belief in his chosen path
ad-vice music and success The engine pulling towards my path to success.
malynda HALE ANOTHER PATH
AN EDITION THAT GREEN BAY PACKER FANS WON’T WANT TO MISS! DID SOMEONE SAY, ‘DUJUAN HARRIS, AKA FOXX’ #26?
TO CONSIDER
the como brothers times square hard rock cafe’ Brothers take the stage at Times Square Hard Rock Café.
BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 1
a decades worth of experience and knowledge
Features 08 Ralan Enterprises (S.M.I.L.E.) Some Make It Look Easy
10 Malynda Hale The Train Ride Home
16 Ad-Vice Whilst others may choose to forget
17 A Dog AKA Annikhan Knowing what it takes to be a man
18 The Como Brothers Band The call of the music
COVER STORY 12 Shamel Shiloh Walk the path of the righteous
interview 04 Buffalo Music Production The Good, The Bad and The......
14 Continued Buffalo Music Interview
Lifestyle
06 Five Tips for Playing Live Rehearsed-up and ready to rock out
SPORTS/ENTERTAINMENT 20 DuJuan Harris, aka Foxx #26 Coming up on the radar of the Green Bay Packers
2 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
FROM THE EDITOR
last issue
Having continuously been recognized throughout the music world as a vast movement with an undeniable force we at BWD Radio are now bringing you the best music and individuals within their field in a more easily digestible format; with a dedicated online magazine packed to the rafters with news, reviews, features and phenomenal artists from across the globe. Synonymous with breaking new ground and talent, our aim isn’t to deliver you an aggregator of articles; more like, the BWD Bible of breaking talent and breath taking bands turning heads and volume dials up to eleven. In each breaking issue we reveal the winners of the BWD Radio’s Indie Music Featured Artist Competition, a monthly competition where we invite you to Get On The ‘Visual’ Playlist for your chance to become one of the featured BWD Competition Winners. The winners are awarded the opportunity of talent exposure across the globe and throughout the world as part of our aim to prove a good tune isn’t limited to whatever celebrity judge endorsed single is currently riding high in the iTunes download chart. In each issue, we also bring you the newest faces in the world of modeling to watch out for in store windows, on the billboards, and in the high-street, as well as on the catwalks
Editor In Chief
of Paris and Milan.
Veralyn Keach, bwdmagazine@gmail.com
Though that may be enough to fill the covers of most magazines, we’ll be taking things
Associate Editor
even further with exclusive ‘first-looks’ at the best in indie talent, our unique position within the world of media affording us the opportunity to bring you the next big hitters before anyone else and by combining the two enormous forces--presences of BWD Radio and BWD Magazine into one with the ‘soon to launch’ all-new BWD website there is twice the promotion to deliver double the impact and even more worldwide exposure to its featured artists. All the freshest new faces and hottest new talent in one magazine, BWD Magazine in con-
Robert Baker, (MaH) madashellpromotions@gmail.com
Lead Contributing Writer Robert Baker, (MaH) madashellpromotions@gmail.com
Contributing Writer Veralyn Keach, bwdmagazine@gmail.com
junction with BWD Radio is committed to setting the standard of what you deserve from a magazine with constant promotion through the BWD network of contacts and promoters.
Art Director
Did someone say BWD Promotions? The BWD Triple Threat Trio!
Veralyn Keach, bwdgraphics@gmail.com
BWD MAGAZINE’S SERVICES: Being in such a unique position affords us the ability to offer
Graphic Artist
our services at ‘considerably less’ than most others, our network allowing us to expose your talent in all the right places without needless expense or additional ‘secret costs’ less scrupulous companies fill their small print and help fill their bank balances with. Covering all aspects of media promotion (from social media sites through to music video promotion) we are able to offer the best when it comes to brand awareness and public recognition of your name or product, without compromising either your impact or finances. For price and space availability inquiries, please contact us via the contact details to the right where we can discuss your specific requirements to ensure maximum exposure: MAGAZINE SPECIFIC SERVICES:
Veralyn Keach, bwdgraphics@gmail.com
Circulation Officer Marilyn Thompson, bwdmusicpromotions@gmail.com
Sales Officer Marilyn Thompson, bwdmusicpromotions@gmail.com
bwdradio.com facebook.com/bwdmagazine twitter.com/bwdmagazine
Single Page Feature Double Page Feature Package (Includes Name “Mentioned” on Cover, Double Page, Review) Interview Feature (Add On for any Single or Double Feature)
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Cover Story Package (Includes Gracing our Cover, Interview and Double Feature Package) Reviews (Add On for Single Feature or if you want a written review) Twitter Buzz “Feature Spotlight” Promotions Boost - 30 Days of 4 Daily Mention Tweets BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 3
Professionally Written Biography & EPK (Electronic Press Kit) Services are also Available.
gazz rogers ‘simply, It’s the nature of the beast’
buffalo music
Interview :: Gazz Rogers, of Buffalo Music Production
Quickly establishing himself as one such dexterous director behind the digital desk is Gazz Rogers, of Buffalo Music Production; multi-talented mixer making music and wav’s right in the heart of the Midlands. Ungulates aside, we sat down with Gazz to find out more about Buffalo Music Productions and his work as a producer.”
M
aH: Who are you and what do you do? Gazz: I’m Gazz Rogers and I’m a Recording Engineer/Producer/Programmer at Buffalo Music Production, and Guitarist, occasionally!
MaH: Tell us the brief history of your company. Gazz: It is brief as Buffalo Music Production only started last year (2012)! The story started a long time ago though. Personally, I’ve been recording music for 20 years and still write my own material when I’m inspired to, professionally I’ve worked mostly at Magic Garden Recording Studio with Gavin Monaghan as Assistant Engineer with some great artists and in some cool studios! I’ve written music for dance companies, mobile phone app’s, websites, etc., and recorded singles, E.P’s, albums and even Audiobooks. I’ve just finished an album at a new studio base for me too so things are definitely going pretty well so far. I’m working freelance now so it’s a bit of a change but I am loving it! MaH: What drives you to continue being such a renaissance man in the studio?
4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
Gazz: Working with artists like Robert Plant, Scott Matthews, Editors and The Twang
The Midlands is synonymous with being a hot-bed of musical talent and melting pool of some of the most talented musicians and performers known within the world of music and across the globe. However, even the mighty Sabbath would’ve only achieved so much without an equally talented mind behind the mixing desk; capable of capturing the intensity and magic the band controlled and nailing it onto vinyl.”
and Ocean Colour Scene, Paolo Nutini have all been great experiences and challenges and that’s what I’m about. Keeping a professional but relaxed attitude is key in my opinion and I do my best to be that way myself. I also love working with newer, younger musicians as there’s a little more freedom creatively speaking, defining a band’s sound and sticking to it while adding a few ‘magic sprinkles’ for the listener is a particularly rewarding thing to be able to do for a ‘job’. I’ve worked in a few great studios including (then) Moloko in London with Editors, Rockfield Studio for the OCS album ‘Saturday’ and newer Vale Studio with The Red Bullets Band for their recent album ‘Drama in the Drawing Room’ featuring Stu from The Twang on guitar. Most other bands - until last year - were recorded at Magic Garden in Wolverhampton, probably the best studio in the midlands if I’m honest! Gavin’s a great producer and I picked up a lot in my 6 years there. As I mentioned, last year I started ‘Buffalo’ and have had the pleasure of working with several great artists already. I have a mobile recording rig so can go wherever the artist needs to be. So far these sessions have mostly been with singer/songwriters as the portability of the gear allows greater flexibility and can be more financially viable than studio time. However, recording quality can tend to suffer slightly. ‘Home’ type recordings are rarely going to be better than a track recorded in a proper studio, but they can still sound professional. To get over this hurdle I’ve recently made friends with Dave Anderson (Groundhogs, ex Hawkwind) who happens to own an awesome studio up in the hills of Mid-Wales, near Welshpool so not too far away from the Midlands. There’s a cottage for bands to stay in too that sleeps up to 7 with a pool table, kitchen, entertainment centre… When I need a studio for a band recording or anything else I go to Foel Studio. Dave’s built an awesome studio into a converted barn type building, it’s been going for 40 years next year and I’m blessed to be part of the team there now. Foel in-house engineer, Tom Wild is a great guy too and seems to be able to keep up with the way I work! I’ve recently finished production with Voodoo Johnson on their upcoming album, it’s the first complete album I’ve Co-Produced under ‘Buffalo’ and I have to say it’s gone great considering some of the problems we had to deal with! The files have gone to a mix specialist in Denmark and are just starting to come back. All I’ll say is; keep an ear out for VOODOO JOHNSON’s next album! I’ll be posting more info as I get it on my Facebook and Twitter so keep an eye on that. Now, if I could only find you something to touch, smell and feel we’ll have all the senses covered!
Buffalo Music Interview Continued on Page 16 BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 5
five tips for playing live You’re all rehearsed-up and ready to rock out, with a handful of gigs booked and an audience eagerly awaiting the debut of your brilliant noise. But before you start making subtle enquiries regarding the venues window sizes and whether they think a television could amply fit through, there are a few things about playing live you would do well to know more of…”
1.
The man on the mixing desk is a key component in acquiring the optimum live sound. If you’re lucky enough to get a gig in a venue with a good P.A. chances are the person manning the dials will know how to use it. So keep your ego in check and listen to what they say. If
amps are being mic’ed up then they control how loud you will be overall. It doesn’t matter how much volume you try and dial in; one flick of the switch will bring you straight back down into the mix, and if you aren’t careful you’ll run the risk of completely destroying your band’s sound by way of a mixer not prepared to put up with any of your nonsense and is more than capable of leaving you playing air-guitar for the entire time you’re on. So listen to what they say, when they say it. Ask questions if you’re unsure of the overall sound, by all means; you want to give the audience the best rendition of your music, and ultimately that’s what matters.
Whoever Controls The Volume
Be respectful, mind; if you genuinely aren’t happy with the sound then asking them to change something you aren’t happy about will be better received when asked to accommodate, rather than simply going ahead
Wields The Power
and making the changes yourself ‘at source’. Conclusion; Even the person manning the desk has an ego; and they also have all the power, too.
set-up 6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
2.
Clarity is key when performing live, so a good on
bad) then the honesty of an audience not ashamed to speak its mind will filter
stage set-up can make all the difference between
through the chit-chat of those ordering drinks at the bar.
a gig everybody remembers and a fiasco of dirge nobody forgets. In the rehearsal room it’s fairly easy
Conclusion;
to find the right level for an ear-pleasing mix of
Not everyone may like your music, but those who do will certainly appreciate
instruments and sound, an effort that at best requires
the effort of something free.
R.E.S.P.E.C.T.
a few minutes spent twiddling dials and tickling stomp-boxes enough to create a pleasant cloud of sound. Taken out of its natural habitat of a carpeted room where everybody stands within headstock range of the drummer, however, and suddenly you’re back to square one of the set-up process, levels needing to be found anew as the acoustics of the venue reveal themselves to be a wholly different beast.
4.
Being top of the bill doesn’t exclude you from displaying the same level of respect and manners you yourself would expect. And though nobody ever feels they have been anything less than kindness itself to others, there are still those who will be able to tell
Venues built specifically for the playing of live music will have a fairly simple
of the time they were the opening act to a headliner
lay-out within a reasonably square-shaped room, the architects understanding
that thought playing top billing at the Dog and Gun meant they could go all
the need for proper audio enjoyment as well as keeping the rain and tramps
prima-donna with anyone not in his band.
away.
Simple respect is all most are looking for here; basic ‘please’ and ‘thank you’s
Unfortunately, some gig-venues will be re-converted rooms of pubs and clubs,
and possibly a nod or a smile if paths happen to cross. You don’t have to go all
places where being able to maximize space to squash as many paying drinkers
out and force friendship upon them, you just need to remember you are all in the
into as small a space as possible will have taken precedence over fitting two
same boat and it can be very easy to get thrown overboard. Borrowed equipment
Marshall cabs and a full compliment of drum-kit in.
should be treated as if it were owned by someone else; no resting of feet or
Split level ceilings and rooms designed around best placement of tables for
drinks on amps, or jamming of headstocks through cabs when reaching the cre-
optimum seating conditions may not be best suited for reflecting and enhanc-
scendo of your set-list. Cables are the most often leant-out gear between bands,
ing your groups music; so once done with the setting up on stage take yourself
and getting a nicely rolled guitar cable back tied up in knots and missing one of
into the area where your audience will be standing. Run through a number and
the jack plugs should be considered on a par with wanton amp destruction. Treat
send the frontman to walking around and about, listening and giving notes on
borrowed gear as a ‘you-break-it-you-brought-it’ situation and you won’t go far
how everything sounds. Does the guitar carry to the back of the room; can you
wrong. Similarly, you can also consider that to be a good mantra for interaction
hear the vocals clearly when the verse kicks in; has there been a massive error
with the other acts on the bill. Except what you ‘buy’ is a bad reputation and the
in judgement in mic-ing up the bass-kick because it’s flattening everything
ire of others around you.
and killing the mood of the song? A few minutes of this will give you a better understanding of how different the sound off-stage is to on-stage, and from that
Conclusion;
a better understanding of how best to maximize your sound.
A bad reputation travels further than a good one.
Conclusion; Levels learned in rehearsal are lessons to re-learn live.
promote yourself
3.
5.
Clearly, you will have done some of this for the actual gig itself beforehand, and with other acts on
Know The Stage You can’t stand before the gaze of others with an uncertain step awaiting you at every turn, so having a clear path beneath you as you pout and posture about will go far in keeping those mid-song mid-air
splits impressive rather than traction-tastic.
the bill bringing their appreciative fans you have the potential for a crowd filled with possible converts
If stomp boxes and cables have made the floor a death-trap to endure then
to your music.
move them. Most pedals and similar find a home at the front of the stage, easy
So take the time to do some meet-n-greet style
to locate under the most eclectic of light shows above and also nicely out of the
walk-arounds. Don’t hide out backstage beforehand in whatever toilet the
way of any wandering feet. Wires trailing from pedal to amp can be held down
venue laughingly refers to as the dressing room; get out there and smile! If
by the application of a little insulation tape or similar, so a purchase of Duct Tape
you’re middle of the bill and sandwiched between bands then great; take some
beforehand should be considered an essential purchase. If they’re being used as
hand-outs and get them into hands. Ask people who they’ve come to see and
simply a means of boosting the guitar then keep them next to or even under the
if they’ve heard of the other acts. Then pounce with the hand-out and say who
amps. If there is no need for it to be on the stage, then keep as much as possible
your band is, where on the bill you are and have a free ‘something-or-other’ with
off the stage. Whatever is on stage should be noted and well-remembered, the
your name and website on it.
lighting conditions often markedly different when on stage and easy to fall foul
If you’re one of the first acts on then hanging around after is even more crucial,
of a forgotten Flange pedal if not careful.
as any future fans will have seen and heard what you have to offer, so being able to offer them something more right now will go a long way to capturing
Conclusion;
their fandom.
Everyone remembers the time they saw the frontman fall arse-over-tit on stage,
Feedback can be sought alongside fan-finding, so keep an ear out as you wan-
and YouTube ensures no-one will forget.
der through the throng; if you were able to make an impression (either good or BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 7
ralan ENTERPRISES, LLC
shirts back to the drawing board until the market was able to catch up with his dreams. Whilst for some that may have signalled the end of the brand, Ralan instead used the time as an opportunity to build upon his business and interpersonal skills, while travelling the world and becoming involved within the music scene.
A
smile can take a tear of sadness
it was only through the altruism shown by
and turn it into cries of laughter.
dedicating time, money and more effort than
Such is the message championed
the man himself would allude the simple ideal
by Ralan “S.M.I.L.E.” Tehuti, who
took tragedy and personal loss and turned it into an opportunity to make the world a better place.
quickly found further inspiration and knowl-
edge through the liberal arts to bolster his selfof putting others first had started to bear fruit. belief in the brand and re-launch it. A chance Taking the natural talent bestowed upon him at birth, Ralan used his flair and abilities to
Founder of S.M.I.L.E (Some Make It Look
launch the S.M.I.L.E. brand, a clothing range
Easy) clothing, Ralan’s mission of bring-
geared towards bringing awareness to his
ing an awareness of how, as a populace,
mission statement. A focused trial run in a
we are all one big family, and have a duty
suburb of Atlanta, Georgia proved he was on
to look towards the improving of lives and
the right path with the reaction and recep-
futures of those less fortunate than ourselves.
tion better than anyone could have expected.
Laying the groundwork for his empire began
Encouraged by such feedback, Ralan moved
when he took a look at the world around him
things up a gear with a stripped-back, criti-
and realized one person truly can make a dif-
cal look at his product and the quality of
ference, if they are prepared to think further
print being offered to the market. Finding
than their own personal gain. Though many
himself dissatisfied with the current market’s
have considered such a thought in the past,
inability to match his goal, Ralan took the
8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
Again, it proved time well invested, as Ralan
encounter and discussion with Chrisitna Milian was all that was needed for the wheels to be set into motion once again, only this time, with more passion and energy than ever before.
oooHmmmm Some Make It Look Easy
S
oon Ralan and S.M.I.L.E. were
With perfection being looked upon as mere-
making major headway and it
ly the starting point, it’s clear S.M.I.L.E. &
wasn’t long before the atten-
oooOHMmmm Clothing is more than just a
tions of the music industry
man with a vision; it is an inspiration of what
started turning towards the noise his brand
can be achieved when someone refuses to let
and missions statement were making. With
their talent and altruism be held back or dis-
S.M.I.L.E. shirts finding themselves on the
couraged by circumstance; seemingly conjured
shoulders of many major producers and artists
up to discolor their own personal mission, and
within the music industry, it was with a true
in Ralan S.M.I.L.E. Tehuti we have concrete
businessman’s intuition Ralan decided to capi-
proof that one man truly can make a difference.
talize on his good fortune and extend the brand into becoming ‘S.M.I.L.E & oooOHMm-
“I really do appreciate this opportunity.” Ralan
mm Clothing’, an incredibly exciting venture
stated when asked how it felt to be chosen
that sees S.M.I.L.E. being represented and con-
for a double-page feature. “I have been follow-
necting with musicians and people within the
ing BWD Promotions for 2 years now and their
hip-hop scene like no other brand before.
growth is exceptional, as well as Ms. V’s continued contribution to helping others in learning
Showing his drive to live up to the simple
to be succesfull is unprecedented. I will support
statement of intent the company was founded
BWD Magazine and BWD’s in Company right
upon, Ralan has made himself something
along with Ralan Enterprises, LLC.” According to
of a renaissance man in the process, learn-
Ralan Enterprises, LLC., & S.M.I.L.E. Clothing,
ing the skills needed to take the world by
they’re not the only ones making a difference
the throat and take S.M.I.L.E. to the forefront
while making it look easy. Ralan humbly fin-
of the world’s mind and firmly under the
ished off his show of appreciation with, “Thank
spotlight where it belongs, an inescapable
you for choosing us at “Some Make It Look Easy”
truth standing for the betterment of Man.
(S.M.I.L.E.), you are the image that carries this torch with us.”
Now finding himself on the very edge of a marketing frenzy campaign with RALAN
Contact Information:
ENTERPRISES LLC., Ralan is building his own empire to accommodate the vision with
Email: Ralanenterprisesllc@gmail.com
a multi-media company and multi-faceted
Website: www.ralanenterprisesllc.me
businesses that utilizes Ralan’s wide ver-
Twitter: @RalanSMILEclthn
satility, whilst at the same time introduc-
Facebook: oooohmmmmellamental
ing S.M.I.L.E. & oooOHMmmm Clothing to
Photo Credits: Ralan-All Rights Reserved
an even greater audience than ever before.
BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 9
staying true to your principals
malynda hale turning up on stages and screens across the land
T
he gift of a natural desire to perform brings the deci-
night-owls with a soundtrack to their evening as unforgettable as the
sion to hide one’s light under a bushel, fearing cries
experience itself.
of arrogance or similar; which can spell the end for many or be a young dream of one day standing before
Evidence abounds to Malynda’s determined younger self’s decision;
an adoring crowd of appreciative fans. Theefore, to have the courage
each single she releases generates considerable air-play, with the
at the tender age of only nine years old to not just perform but pen
tracks ‘Blue Eyes’, ‘City Lights’ ‘In Love’ and ‘Crazy Inside’ being accept-
the very songs she would perform; before her peers, shows a strength
ed into the Crucial Music Catalogue – wherein only those considered
from within that marks Malynda Hale out as someone unafraid to
the best are given consideration for placement within films, tele-
take the harder path in pur-
vision, and Oscar winning
suit of her personal dreams.
media. Again proving that ‘staying true to your princi-
Resident of Santa Barbara,
pals’ is key to a fruitful soul.
California, Malynda focused her energies in singing
Malyndas
through the gospel choir;
unadulterated
the genre known to draw
saw her being sought out
and
the
to become the face and
very soulful of voices and
spokesperson for the lead-
impassioned
ing brand in the world of
produce
only of
perfor-
natural
and
beauty
mances, proved the balm
vegan
for a while but it wasn’t
Minerals, none more fit-
long before the itch to per-
ting an opportunity for
form for larger, more var-
the proudly self-confessed
ied audiences saw Malynda
vegan.
make-up,
Valana
take her unique voice to the awaiting crowds across the wide land of America.
Recently working alongside ABC’s Family Show star, Brant Daugherty on the indie film Oranges marks a new path for Malynda to consider
Patriotic and peerless meant it was only natural Malynda was
to walk down, her acting and on-screen charisma perhaps not surpris-
requested to perform the National Anthem in L.A., take center stage
ingly matching her singing and self-penned compositions.
before a Tryone Wells audience; at the House of Blues in Mandalay Bay, and an abundance of performances within the ‘City That Never
Further appearances on-screen and the opportunity of starring in the
Sleeps’. Malynda is appreciative of all opportunities in leaving the
film The 4th Meeting sees her not only travelling to Chicago for the
10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
Fans that appreciate my sound and value my music is a feeling that is priceless ”
another path to consider filming, but also down the new path of acting she has unexpect-
As to the future of continued success in her singing, there is
edly found herself taking; one which, if her musical recognitions
an equally rewarding present that sees Malynda turning up on
are any marker to compare, will be one with a rich, verdant land-
stages and screens across the land; as she continues to forge
scape of unlimited horizons.
her own path to take. Contact Information:
“Being able to share my music with so many new fans that I know will appreciate my sound and value my music is a feeling that is
Email: booking@malyndahale.com
priceless.” Malynda enthused when informed of her magazine
Website: www.malyndahale.com
feature win. “The support I’ve received from BWD is immeasurable.
Twitter: @malyndahale
It’s rare to find a company that is so focused on giving Indie Artists
Facebook: malyndahalemusic
a platform to be on”.
Photo Credits: Jeremy David All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 11
SHAMEL SHILOH ‘4Ever” ruling the airwaves with worldwide acceptance
L
ike the Greek myth Prometheus himself, Shamel Shiloh is the lone figure taking light into the darkest of lives and hope to all who bask in its glow. With a name that literally means ‘To Shine For
God’, Shamel Shiloh is a Northern Virginia/Washington DC based hip-hop artist using his talent and passion to illuminate the world around him and take the darkness from the light. A humble man and dedicated father, Shamel walks the path of the righteous artist within, his message to the world one of inspiration and faith that has managed to capture the hearts and imaginations of an ever growing audience with his own brand of Christian Hip-Hop.
12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
cover story
A dedicated approach to the long journey that
Refusing to sit back on his laurels, Shamel
awaits any musician saw Shamel take his mes-
Shiloh quickly followed this up by joining
sage to the stages and audiences as far afield
forces with Sean Israel and Matty B to become
as the horizons would allow, the belief in his
the rap group District Connection. The subse-
chosen path spurring him on.
quent release ‘Monumental’ proved Shamel Shiloh to be more than a man on a mission;
Having released his first album ‘He Is Alive’
he was a man with a vision.
in 2008 Shamel quickly saw it rocket up the charts to eventually storm into the number
In April 2011, his vision was further buoyed
three slot on the Amazon Rap Download
by receiving the 2011 Holy Hip Hop Honoree
Charts.
Award at the Fox Theatre, Georgia, further cementing his legacy and laying the founda-
Success breeding success. ‘He Is Alive’ caught
tions for even greater things to come.
the attentions of many more than just the downloading public, the album’s energy and
With regular rotation of the video to his hit
overall incredible sound, driving it on to be
single ‘4Ever’ ruling the airwaves worldwide it
nominated for Best Rap Album, Shamel him-
would seem Shamel Shiloh’s message is being
self being bestowed with the honor of Best
heard loud and clear by his ever increasing
Male Rapper by the Velocity Magazine Awards.
swell of converts.
Photo Credit: Christopher Vo
Contact Information: Email: shamelshiloh@gmail.com Website: myspace.com/shamelshilohmusic Twitter: @shamelshiloh Facebook: shamelshilohpage Photo Credits: Mark Mahoney Photo Credit: Christopher Vo All Rights Reserved
Over 1.7 Million Plays and over 35000 fans combined -Verified on Billboard’s Next Big Sound Charts”
BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 13
buffalo music production
Working with artists like Robert Plant.... experiences & challenges is what it’s all about Continued Buffalo Music Interview from Page 4 MaH: What would you describe as being a typical day for you?
line and hopefully won’t be too far away. Other than that, word of mouth
Gazz: I’ve not had a ‘typical day’ since I left school! If I ever got into a
and getting out to gigs whenever I can.
routine I think I’d go sane! When working with musicians it’s half about catching them at their best time, so I have to be pretty flexible day to
MaH: How close are you to where you want to be?
day to work around them and be ready for the greatness, haha – unless,
Gazz: Miles away, but on the right path for now and picking up pace!
of course, there’s a time constraint; then I work them like dogs!
I’ve got some new gear coming soon which is top secret stuff. It’s going to have a fantastic impact on my recordings. You are always learning in
MaH: Given the quality of your work I imagine you’re in much demand?
this business, every day almsot a school day.
Gazz: Thank you! Yeah, I’m happy with my progress thus far but there’s always room for improvement, as they say? I love being busy! I’m really
MaH: What’s your outlook on the changing face of the record industry?
looking forward to taking some more bands to Foel this year!
Gazz: The record industry will always be changing it’s simply the nature of the beast. I think people experiment more now with different types of
MaH: Which artist have you worked with that’s been most memorable?
music and have more eclectic musical tastes too. With how easy it is to
Gazz: Well this album with Voodoo Johnson is definitely going to be
get music digitally, it’s made it a wide open market, and I could easily get
memorable! I’ve had a great time helping craft the songs and get some
on a soapbox and chat for hours about this.
great sounds in there. Oh and laughing at stuff I probably should feel guilty about… hahahahaaa.
For the audience it’s a good time, there’s plenty of music around and lots of ways to find it. For the artists there will always be more and more
I remember recording Paolo Nutini backstage at V Festival the day before
‘competition’ but with the passing of the ‘super labels’ Universal, Sony etc,
Oasis split up; we were in a porta-cabin backstage trying to record vocals
more independent labels are emerging, and I think eventually it’s going
on a laptop in a very hot cabin with all the windows closed trying to keep
to be easier to get exactly what you want to hear as well as easier for the
the festival music out! Steve Cradock of OCS was in there too and it was
bands to get support from smaller labels to promote their tunes. Then
a bit mad – got a bit ‘smokey’ in there but the vocals came out great!
again, way back in time before the iPod, who could have predicted we’d be where we are now? We just don’t know what’s around the corner; it
MaH: How do you promote your company? Gazz: So far from my Facebook pages, although a website is in the pipe14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
keeps it fresh by default.
MaH: What’s your biggest claim to notoriety so far?
people out there supporting bands by buying CDs and band merchandise
Gazz: I think it was caught on CCTV, but I couldn’t tell you about that,
so recording becomes an expensive game, essentially a luxury for many
haha! No, in all seriousness, I’m not sure I have what you’d call ‘notoriety’,
musicians I’ve met. To survive you have to be able to overcome these
just the drive to become the best I want to be.
obstacles and keep doing what you love doing. To the music loving, band supporting, merchandise buying public? I salute you! Don’t stop!!
MaH: What advice would you give someone who wanted to follow in your shoes?
MaH: What’s the best and worst thing about doing your job?
Gazz: If music is in your blood and nothing else fits right then do it with
Gazz: The best thing… Working on great music with great people who
every fibre of your being. Be prepared to study, practice and fail, but out
have the passion for music: working on a piece that makes the tiny hairs
of this learn to get right back up and at it! I’m not going to promise any-
on the back of your neck stand up. The worst thing would be not work-
thing in this game will be easy but if you don’t try, how are you going to
ing; I love my career and hate when I can’t be working on tunes.
know? I love it! Oh, and if you can cope with some of the most random working hours you can imagine, that’s definitely a plus.
MaH: Have there ever been any disasters/incidents you would care to share?
MaH: If the phone suddenly rang and a voice on the other end said they
Gazz: To be honest I try not to focus on negatives, but to be fair I don’t
wanted you to work with them, who would it ideally be?
think I have anything to report here, fortunately! Besides, I couldn’t name
Gazz: Tough one. Cake have been my long standing favorite band but
and shame haha!
not many people have heard of them, they’re lo-fi, American stuff but if Slash called I’d be ready!
MaH: MaH: And finally; what does the future hold? Any future plans or announcements on the horizon?
MaH: What are the biggest obstacles you’ve encountered so far?
Gazz: I have no idea what the future holds, but hope it brings plenty to
Gazz: One thing at the moment that’s an issue for everybody is the econ-
keep me and my loved ones happy, healthy and busy, as well as, loads
omy: for most bands who do it for the love, rehearse in damp lock-ups for
more of great musicians to work with!
hours on end after working all day, they’re finding it harder to find places to play. Entertainment venues have taken a hit since the recession, smok-
Contact: internationalgazz@hotmail.com
ing bans, and cheap alcohol even! When there’s less venues there’s less
Facebook:BuffaloMusicProduction BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 15
ralan
My family is the engine to my success that drives me to work hard every day”.
T
hey say ‘the longest journey begins with a single
Such
step’. For some this may mean the journey their life
an
invaluable
may take as they find their way in the world. For oth-
the
mixtapes
an
unassuming
platform
contribution and
to
build
to
recognition
upon,
Ad-Vice’s increased
it
proved
career yet
as
further.
ers, a more literal sense can be applied, as theirs
voyage to discovery of not just the world but also of themselves.
2010 saw the awaited release of Crucial Elements, released on his own label ‘The Underground Spotlight’. With an unques-
Encapsulating
entre-
tioning sound and high production levels, it stands as an
preneur and artist to his growing list of credits, his own
album equal, if not greater than most you could claim to name.
path
one
of
both
of
the
geographical
latter Ad-Vice as
well
as
can
add
physical
growth. Whilst others may choose to forget, they may not have been
Beginning life in Northeast Portland, Oregon, Frank ‘Ad-Vice’ Lewis
alone on their walk to where they currently find themselves now.
found his skills at college football would take him to the shores
Ad-Vice certainly holds no false prophets to his name, explaining;
of Santa Maria, the University of Redlands and the stronghold he would maintain as life began the unravelling of his future.
‘My family is the engine to my success that drives me to work hard every day.’
A born performer,
Ad-Vice honed his musical talents on equip-
Continuing to walk until the future becomes now, Frank ‘Ad-Vice’ Lewis is
ment loaned to him by his brother, the ties that bind with-
working on his next release, the eagerly anticipated album Master of None.
in his family so strong as to enable him with the tools to begin voicing
his
talent
when
inspiration
started
to
stir.
Contact Information:
Soon it was clear the future lay within music, Ad-Vice quickly reaching
Email: Ad-vice@theundergroundspotlight.com
the limit of the equipment yet continuing to find inspiration and imagi-
Website: www.TheUspotlight.com
nation to work within such confines. Challenged though certain, Ad-Vice
Twitter: @Advice503
built a reputation through the work he produced. As demand began to
Facebook: TheUspotlight
push the confines of what could be accomplished with the tools he cur-
Photo Credits: Ad-Vice -All Rights Reserved
rently had, new tools were sourced in the guise of a karaoke machine.
16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
Ad-vice
A Dog AKA Annikhan
I
n the world of literary fiction a great man once wrote
standing in your way to becoming the person you know yourself to be.
‘with great powers comes great responsibility’. Similarly, another wordsmith penned the phrase ‘use the force’.
Respect is written deep into the songs he creates, but not in the more formulaic approach of attaining it through menace or malign-
Seemingly capable of combining both edicts into one unifying mes-
ing another; rather, it is to be found by releasing yourself of the
sage of positivity, Rainier Sheridan aka Annikhan aka Your Excellency
shackles a past life or negative influences may have tried binding
stands singular in his ability to use what some would consider
you deeply with, bringing out the light that shines within every-
their greatest work as a mere prelude for an even greater reveal.
one who understands his message of positivity and realizing that as a person, you have a responsibility to the life you have been
Coming from the largest state in Wisconsin, Milwaukee born Annikhan
gifted with to be the best example of yourself that you can be.
stands to be the single most biggest export that finest of States has produced; with an ear for music and a mindful sense of self that managed to both
With a confidence that comes only from those stoic enough for such
capture and captivate upon the release of ‘Sorry For The Interruption’ EP.
a coup d’état, Annikhan has already prepared his next release Life’s Journey to help drive home the message and raise up the masses, an
Eschewing the clichéd route of guns n’ gangsta styling’s Annikhan sets
EP that doesn’t just carry on from where the last left off but creates an
his stall by the true sense of what it takes to be a Man; integrity, fortitude,
even broader scope of sound, song and style quickly bringing under-
a will to achieve and to carry on in the face of insurmountable odds, and
standing to why he is also the artist known formally as ‘Your Excellency’.
the goal of a greater good being the only goal needed to forge forward.
With an outlook to life that states,‘If I Had One Lane,Consider It the Runway...
Humility and humanity bestowed him the triple-barrelled moniker of A
Take Flight’ . A Dog aka Annikhan aka Your Excellency may well be a
Dog aka Annikhan aka Your Excellency, his loyalty to others proving him
musician of many names but is clearly more than any name could convey.
to be the one standing beside you when times get tough had attributed to the canine element of his title, a penchant for sci-fi alluded the Annikhan.
Contact Information:
Words clearly hold great significance within the Man’s mind-set, with
Email: rainier.sheridan@gmail.com
his own lyrical outpourings unlike his contemporaries in that they
Twitter: @adogakaannikhan
focus solely on the issue of the song; unnecessary posturing or self-
Photo Credits: Rainier Sheridan-All Rights Reserved
aggrandising tales of questionable legitimacy are left to those with less confidence than himself, as Annikhan uses his life as inspiration for his songs, their themes bright with the coloring of overcoming the odds BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 17
seizing on their natural talent
THE COMO BROTHERS the call of the music an inescapable pull for the.....
W
ith an unassuming yet direct statement of intent that
Brothers Band saw the release of their first independent EP ‘The
rings, ‘We write songs. We love music. This is our career.’
Speed of Sound’.
it seems Matt and Andrew of The Como Brothers Band have little time to squander on needless parable.
Following this came the news they were being selected by the ‘Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands’ for an appearance and performance at the
Surrounded by a menageries of musicians throughout their early lives,
Nassau Coliseum for The Warped Tour, and further confirmation of
Matt and Andrew often found themselves centre-stage of their uncles
their critical acclaim came when they were named Emerging Artists
impromptu basement jams, the call of the music an inescapable pull
by S&IS and personally invited by Sony to head down to their offices
for the young boys. Seizing
to have their music played
on their natural talent and
before Sony’s own A&R
flair, their mother indulged
people.
their musical thirst with all manner of musical lessons;
Taking their music to the
piano to guitar, saxophone
Hard Rock Rising Contest
and bass, all and more fell
saw them appear in New
beneath the young broth-
York as finalists, and some-
er’s hands as they quickly
how still found time to fit
tamed and mastered each
in a performance at the
chosen instrument.
Montauk Music Festival and be requested to play at
The stage being their natu-
Sullivan Hall.
ral boardwalk, the Como brothers were regular stars beneath
the
From there to Lake George
spotlight,
and a show at the Six Flags
becoming part of a Beatles tribute band that saw their introduction
Great Escape and soon the Como Brothers found themselves in the
to the live stage courtesy of ”Long Islands” hospitable venues.
enviable position of having their music form the soundtrack to a slew of television shows, including MTV’S Real World, St. Thomas
Their stage craft honed throughout the years while Matt and Andrew
and the hugely successful worldwide smash “Keeping Up With The
began to grow in their musician hood, the beginnings of songs and
Kardashians”.
parts of guitar scribbled down and worked out into fully realized original compositions. Vocal lessons saw Matt expand his creativity
With the single ‘I Don’t Like You’ managing the most number of down-
beyond instrumental confines, and the combined force of the Como
loads in the Hard Rock Rising Contest, February of 2012 saw the
18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
We write songs. We love music. This is our career.”
the ‘hard rock’ arising brothers take the stage at the Times Square Hard Rock Café to cement their award of first place. A few months later and the Como Brothers were approached by newcomer Kayla Stockert, the resultant collaboration between the three musicians resulted in “What They Say” and “Your Love” as two original compositions from the brothers featured on the release, alongside an collaborative track between themselves and Kayla titled “Don’t Go Messing with My Heart.” Despite still attending school, the Como Brothers Band already have the next few months planned out, with March seeing the release of the “Still Waters” EP and with it a chance for the Como Brothers Band to take up their natural position beneath stage-lights and before an expectant crowd, await for the cheering and applause to sufficiently die down, and make every show possibly the best show of your life. Contact Information: Email: comobrothersband@gmail.com Website: www.comobrothersband.com Twitter: @ComoBrosBand Facebook: ComoBrothersBand Photo Credits: The Como Brothers-All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com • 19
dujuan harris #26 green
bay
packers
running
back
Ask any true American to name
with talent within the world of
ris still carries ‘the heart of
an inspirational figure and you
football, coming up on the ra-
a true American’, with his hu-
would probably hear the names
dar of the Green Bay Packers
mility and humbleness at hav-
Wa s h i n g t o n , M a r s h a l l o r Ro o -
and looking to be a future star
ing achieved so much already;
sevelt
within the team, having shown
highlighting
But don’t be surprised if pretty
his talent to finish the
Pa c k-
already consider him to be a
soon the name ‘DuJuan Harris’ is
ers’ top back, rushing for 257
hero of the American Dream.
mentioned in the same breath
yards on 62 carries and claim-
and
ing four scores in six games.
amongst
with
the
equal
answers.
reverence.
“Be
on
the
why
lookout
Floridians
for
May
2013’s issue release; where we Although
for
most
residents
the
name
ready
S t a n d i n g o u t o n t h e f i e l d b y,
continue to support and share
al-
i r o n i c a l l y, b e i n g s h o r t e r t h a n
an up close and personal inter-
synonymous
has
the average player Harris man-
view, with DuJuan Harris, aka
inspira-
ages to combine the power of
Foxx; when BWD Magazine was
tion, pretty soon the rest of
Goliath within his five seven
able to catch up with Harris, in
the States and the world itself
frame;
F l o r i d a , d u r i n g s e a s o n b r e a k .”
w i l l h a v e a n e w m a n t l e o f ex-
sheer size alone, whereas Har-
cellence to look towards when
ris uses his unassuming form
r e c a l l i n g g r e a t n e s s i n h i s t o r y.
to his strengths, quickly and
with
become
Florida
greatness
and
others
intimidate
by
quite often conclusively corDuJuan
recting any foolish enough to
Harris, aka Foxx, has quickly
stand in his way on the field.
made both a name and repu-
Having
tation for himself as a player
unquestionable abilities, Har-
Floridian
footballer
proven
his
skill
and
follow dujuan harris aka foxx #26 on twitter and facebook 20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdradio.com
V i s i t w w w . T w i t t e r. c o m / O l _ s L y _ F o x x o r w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m / p a g e s / D u J u a n - H a r r i s - a k a - F o x x / 2 2 5 3 8 0 4 4 0 8 2 4 2 6 4