BWD Magazine - December 2014 - Holiday Edition

#1 Variety Magazine - A Worldwide Publication

DECEMBER 2014 - HOLIDAY EDITION

ELOHO singing while her gifting follows....

paul mcdonald talks “Bright lights” solo debut album

Rasmiyyah Sahirah featured model of the month

OVER a decades worth of experience and knowledge

GREAT HOLIDAY tips

Features 04 Rasmiyyah Sahirah Featured Model Of The Month

06 Michael X Focused On Fulfilling His Purpose

10 JJ Grey & Mofro Release Of “OL’Glory” & Upcoming Tour

18 Merna Vocalist’s Album News And Video Release

21 Doreen Taylor It’s All About That “Magic”

22 Paul McDonald Solo Debut Album Release And Plans For 2015

COVER STORY 12 Eloho Love, Passion For Singing While Her Gifting Follows

Lifestyle 08 Travel Tips For The Holidays A Few Tips To Make Your Holiday Easier

09 Holiday Energy Saving Tips 7 Tips To Lower Energy Costs This Holiday Season

16 10 Tips For Surviving Christmas Keeping Your Sanity In Check

HEALTH 14 5 Tips For Eating “Holiday” Healthy When Temptations Run High

ENTERTAINMENT 7

Buffalo Bites (Monthly Feature)

The Creative Audio And Music Production World

19 All Hands On Deck (DJ Spotlight) Dr. Noreen Khan-Mayberry aka “The Tox Doc”

26 BWD Radio & Ms. V (Indie Advocate) Ms V’s Becoming Well-Known As The Go-To Girl!

2 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

FROM THE EDITOR

last issue

In a world where a swipe across the virtual shelf has supplanted the casual stroll down the aisle, content driven media has become the golden chalice of promotion; fresh content delivered with the minimum of fuss constantly throughout the day has become the key to ensnaring the public interest, of reaching the plateau of fame and recognition you deserve to be standing upon.

Without an audience to listen no-one can hear you talk. Without a pair of eyes to observe no-one notices when you achieve greatness and without a market waiting on pins to learn which direction their latest fascination will be coming from no-one will be holding the banners of congratulations when you finally step up to the limelight.

With an empire of insiders working tirelessly away to bring you the biggest, best, and breaking news across the entire landscape of the media BWD Magazine has built a reputation as being one of the leading names in the industry.

When we speak, others listen.

With a worldwide audience of subscribers downloading and learning which name to look out for, which band they should be following, who the next Big Thing is going to be, BWD Magazine speaks to millions of awaiting ears each and every month.

With the world as an audience BWD Magazine puts you firmly in the spotlight.

Editor In Chief V Keach

Editors/Writers Various Contributor Sources

Art Director, Graphic Artist(s) V Keach & BWD Graphics

Tips/Questions? info@bwdmagazine.com

Offical Website BWDMagazine.com Twitter: BWDMagazine Twitter: BWDPromotions

BWD Magazine- ‘Leading Whilst Others Follow’

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 3

DECEMBER’s featured model of the month

A

Petite Model, Trained Dancer,

Rasmiyyah has successfully worked as an

and aspiring Actress; known

optician in her city, where she is the only

as Rasmiyyah Sahirah, is

African American providing optical services

from a small beach island

to patients ranging from age 30-92.

resort in Ocean City, New

Jersey; also known as, The Garden State.

STATS: Birthdate: 9-16-82 Height: 5’3

In addition, Rasmiyyah is a Jazz/Ballet teacher. “Who says you can’t beat the odds, overcome

Being raised in a city with an average popu-

adversity, and represent a strong intellectual

lation of seven thousand; African Americans

African American Woman.” says Rasmiyyah.

comprise only 2 percent of the population.

This alone has been an enlightening experi-

Rasmiyyah is beating the odds and is con-

Measurements: 34-26-38

ence of growth for Rasmiyyah.

fident that she will achieve greatness in

Hair: Black

One of Rasmiyyah’s hardest struggles; while

Eyes: Brown

ing the best way to adapt within such a

Rasmiyyah is a dancer, instructor, and trained

racially split population.

performer of dance; in her local area. She has

Rasmiyyah came from a family of drug addic-

cess, and stand out from the rest.” Rasmiyyah

tion and very small career earnings. Whereas,

states. “I know I will put my small island on the

there hasn’t been a single entertainer thats

map with one of my many entertaining talents

accomplished any success. A daily work life

of Dancing, Modeling and Acting.”

Current Residence: Ocean City, New Jersey

her entertainment life and success in her

learned, “You must risk it all, strive to be a suc-

is all we would see; upon every visit.

4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

teachings.

growing up in a small town, was understand-

Rasmiyyah Sahirah

Contact Information Facebook: Rasmiyyah.Sahirah Email: rsamodeldancer@gmail.com Photo Credits: Andre Mc Neil, Thomas Woods & Jamil B Studio All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 5

M

MICHAEL X ichael X Vincent is a music artist with a mission.

music that brings awareness of our society’s issues.

He is dedicated to empowering listeners with a message of hope, change, and revolution.

One of the ways this emerging artist fullfills his mission is by promoting Muhammad’s Economic Blueprint with his latest song,

Michael was raised between Los Angeles,

appropriately titled, “Economic Blueprint”. The initiative calls for

Cincinnati, and Atlanta. At only fifteen years old, Michael knew that

Black people to unite their dollars to produce their own jobs, food,

Hip Hop was one of his passions.

clothing, and shelter.

As a Muslim follower of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan,

“I know that once we get land, which is the main idea of the program,

Michael’s focus is on fulfilling his purpose and using his talents to

it will not only benefit agriculture and engineering, but literally every

aid in his spiritual leader’s efforts.

field of endeavor our people are involved in,” says Michael.

“Minister Louis Farrakhan loves the Hip Hop generation and wants to

Michael X also has a school tour in the works, during which he will

see us step into our great roles,” says Michael. “He has asked the cul-

share his latest video release titled “New Rulers” - an inspirational

tural community to stand up and put a revolutionary thinking into the

song featuring 4th, 5th, and 6th grade boys.

minds of the people.”

Keep up with Michael X! Musically, what sets Michael X apart is his ability to incorporate positive messages without coming off preachy; in the way many “con-

Music: mikex.bandcamp.com

scious” artists tend to do. Although he doesn’t use foul language,

Twitter: @Michael6X

this skilled lyricist can go as hard as the next rapper.

Facebook: /micheal.x.vincent Instagram: Michael6X

Inspired by artists such as Bone Thugs ’n’ Harmony, Jay-Z, T.I., Kendrick Lamar, Talib Kweli, and Michael Jackson, he desires to make feel-good 6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Photo Credits - KaM Multimedia & Publishing - All Rights Reserved

buffalo bites monthly feature I don’t know how these weeks roll on by quicker and quicker but they do!

lent. If you would like to have a listen to our very first full in-house record-

I’m sitting in the studio during a brief silent moment, there’s a band here

ing the band have put it up on their Soundcloud page at Soundcloud.com/

tonight for a session but they’re shooting video not recording sound, it

Eskers and the track is called ‘Can You Feel It’. Who knows what the next

appears we’ve built an aesthetically pleasant place here at Crown Works

month holds? You’ll have to wait and see, in the meantime go and have

Studio (CWS).

a listen to the groovy Eskers songs and Happy Tracking! ~ Gareth Rogers

Last weekend saw a local photographer bring in a few ‘Girls Who Rock’ for a (tasteful and fully clothed) photo shoot for an upcoming calendar, and in a couple of weeks there’s a booking for another video shoot so we’ve definitely nailed the looks! Still, this is a brand new studio I’m working from now and as with anything it’s going to take time to build up the reputation that will hopefully attract serious artists. So, with this in mind we thought we should get a decent band in to help us fully sus-out the place from a sound/workflow perspective. It’s all very well building a great looking creative environment but if it sounds like a sack of spanners and takes ages to do the most mundane of studio tasks it’s not doing what it should be doing.

I’ve been lucky enough to work in and visit (however briefly) a variety of the UK’s top studios including Mark ‘Spike’ Stent’s room in Olympic Studios before it was turned into a cinema(!) and Moloko in what was then Ben Hillier’s room. I took what I could from the designs of these rooms and a couple of other studios and incorporated what we could into CWS. Eventually it became time to test all of this with our first full band session.

I called upon the talents of Eskers, a young and capable Birmingham band I’ve previously taken to Foel studio in Wales to record three tracks in two days, this time however we were tracking one song in two days meaning we could think about the sounds a little more. The drum kit sounded fantastic in the room and was mic’d up in such a way to capture this, as well as close mic’s to pick up the detail of the individual parts. A pair of ribbon mic’s at the far end of the live room deliver a real ‘When the Levee breaks’ ambient sound if needed but for this one we had them in the centre of the room as the track wasn’t shouting for giant drums.

We DI’d the bass guitar and then re-amped it out through one of our guitar amps to add a little ‘air’ to the dry bass. Guitars were played through a real amplifier though, changing speaker cabinet and microphones to get alternative tones for double tracking the chorus and riff guitars, we also threw into the mix Ross’s Fender Telecaster with juicy P90 pickup to add some character to the double.

Photographs by Gareth Rogers *The Live Room being turned into a Film Set for a Music Video shoot. *Ross (Owner/Engineer), Eskers Band and Me! (in need of a shave!)

Vocally Joe has an awesome sound but can be very dynamic on a studio

*Joe From Eskers in full swing on vocal duties.

microphone, so feeding his mic through both of our awesome Warm Audio

Buffalo Music Production - www.facebook.com/gazz.rogers

76 compressors really held the level down without interfering with the full

Crown Works Studio - www.facebook.com/crownworksstudio

and present sound we had for him and I have to say the results are excel-

Photo Credits: Buffalo Bites - All Rights Reserved

7 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Travel tips for the holidays

Even though Thanksgiving is a busier travel holiday (everyone is trying to get somewhere else during the same four day period), Christmas travel can be just as hectic. Here are a few travel tips to make your holiday a little easier.

According to the Better Business Bureau, if you are flying try to avoid the busiest times, which are the two days before and the two days after Christmas. Also, don’t wrap your presents before you go through airport security. The TSA may open packages and you’ll end up having to re-wrap the gifts. Wait until you arrive or ship the presents ahead. Finally, verify your airline, rental car, and hotel reservations just before you leave. Also do your booking early (too late for that one this year) and leaving early for the airport (that one you can still do).

The AAA states that one in four Americans, or over 93 million people, will be traveling over the Christmas holidays. Most of those will be on the nation’s highways. If you’re driving home for the holidays AAA recommends having your car checked by a mechanic before you hit the road. It’s also a good idea to pack an emergency kit in case of unexpected weather. A fun idea if you are traveling a long distance by car with children 8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

is to give them a present to open part way through the trip.

If the gift is a car game or other “distraction” it can help the miles melt away.

As with Thanksgiving travel, the idea is to take it easy, keep calm and remember that this is a happy time of year. If you start stressing about the travel just remember the reasons that you are making the trip.

HAPPY TRAVELS!!

holiday energy saving tips

The holiday season can be an expensive time of the year!

The holiday season can be an expensive time of year, and we’re not just talking about the price of gifts. There are also additional energy costs to light the Christmas tree, heat the house on a chilly night, illuminate the indoor and outdoor Christmas decorations, and bake all those yummy Christmas treats! Here are several things you can do to lower energy costs this holiday season.

Switch to LED lights – Purchase LED Christmas lights for your indoor and outdoor displays. These lights are more energy efficient and can last up to 20 years! Although more expensive initially, LED lights cost less to use and last longer than traditional lights.

1. Use a timer – Outdoor lights and decorative displays can be easily forgotten. Leaving them on all day long can quickly run up the electric bill.

This year, plug all your outdoor electrical products into a convenient timer.

They’ll turn on and off on their own!

5. Temperature control – Find a comfortable temperature for the house and stick with it. During the day, a temperature of 68 is recommended, while at night, it’s advised to go even lower. A programmable thermostat can be set to adjust the temperature between day and night for you.

6. Batteries to the rescue! – If you like the look a lit house from the street, but are afraid of a high energy bill, consider battery operated options.

Flameless candles and battery operated window displays look festive, but won’t add a thing to your electric bill.

7. Change your filter – Change your furnace filter to lower energy costs this holiday. A clogged filter makes it difficult for the furnace to run properly, and can pollute the air inside your home. A new filter won’t cost much and is easy to replace. Plus it will make your furnace work like a charm.

Did you know most of our holiday energy costs are consumed through lights and other plug-in decorations? It’s true. Find out how much your Christmas display is costing you! Do a web search for an Energy Cost Calculator that suits you.

2. Reflect instead of illuminate – Don’t add more strands of lights to your tree. Instead, use mirrors in an illuminated room to emphasize what you have. You’ll double the ‘WOW’ factor without running up the electric bill.

3 Avoid the oven – If at all possible, avoid cooking things in the oven as this will run up the electric bill. Consider cooking in a slow cooker, microwave, rotisserie, roaster oven, or on the stovetop.

HAPPY SAVINGS!!

4. Wash by hand – Get the kids in on the holiday clean up, and have them wash the dishes by hand instead of running the dishwasher. This is a simple way to lower energy costs, although the kids may not like it.

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 9

JJ GREY & MOFRO

S

OULFUL SOUTHERN SEPTET JJ GREY & MOFRO ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF “OL’ GLORY” ON MARCH 2, 2015 (IN EUROPE) / MARCH 3, 2015 (NORTH AMERICA)

The material on Ol’ Glory reflects two themes that run through JJ Grey & Mofro’s entire body of work, a strong sense of place, and finding happiness with where you are in life. The opening track, “Everything Is A Song” is prime example, as is the joyous “Every Minute” with its mantra “loving every minute of livinag”. “Home in the

“JJ Grey concocts a vivid blend of blues, Southern rock and funk, complete with richly evocative lyrics and an easygoing sense of blue-collar storytelling…lucid, plainspoken American music.”

– NPR

Sky” allows listeners a glimpse at Grey’s spirituality strongly rooted in his Florida home and the land he grew up on. JJ Grey is a natural storyteller with a gift for delivering thoughtful and profound messages in a down-to-earth, laid-back way, while maintaining a level of intensity that goes

Nashville, TN – Celebrated soul-

straight to your core.

ful ensemble JJ Grey & Mofro will release their newest recording Ol’

Ol’ Glory

Glory on March 2nd (in Europe) /

Retrophonics Studio in Saint

March 3rd (in North America).

Augustine, FL, where Grey has

This album marks their debut on

tracked many times.

Provogue Records, which is part

surfer, Grey often spent the morn-

of the Mascot Label Group.

Ol’

ings at the beach and the after-

Glory contains 12 new songs that

noons recording, a formula that

feature the deep, soulful blend of

has proven very effective in creat-

blues, rock, folk, funk, gospel, gritty

ing inspired recordings. Ol’ Glory

was

recorded

at

An avid

R&B and personal, Southern-inspired narratives that have become

showcases the strength of Mofro members Anthony Cole (drums and

synonymous with JJ Grey & Mofro. A true Southern renaissance man,

percussion), Andrew Trube (guitar), Anthony Farrell (piano/organ), Todd

JJ Grey’s intensely charismatic live performances, combined with the

Smallie (bass) and Dennis Marion (trumpet) and Jeff Dazey (saxophone).

incredible musicianship of Mofro, have connected with audiences

Special guests include Luther Dickinson on dobro and electric slide

all over the world. Their work has been praised by the press, includ-

guitar and Derek Trucks on electric slide guitar.

ing The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR, Relix, The Oxford American and many more.

JJ Grey & Mofro have captivated audiences at some of the largest festivals world wide, including Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Austin City

10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Limits Festival, Glastonbury, North Sea Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival and Fuji Rock in Japan.

TOUR DATES

The band, who play over 120 dates per year, will be hitting the road

February 14 - Whig Fest - St. Petersburg, FL

in February 2015 in support of Ol’ Glory, including a trip to Europe

February 15 - The Moon - Tallahassee, FL

and Australia. (See list of tour dates below.)

February 18 - 9:30 Club - Washington, DC February 19 - The Egg - Albany, NY

JJ Grey is as genuine as they come, a do-it-yourselfer who is commit-

February 20 - House of Blues - Boston, MA

ted to making music that’s true to his heritage and full of integrity.

February 21 - Terminal 5 - New York, NY

In this day and age, that’s a rare thing.

February 25 - Mr. Smalls - Pittsburgh, PA February 26 - Vogue - Indianapolis, IN

Band Information: Website: www.jjgrey.com Twitter: @JJGREYandMOFRO Facebook: MOFROBAND

February 27 - Taft Theatre - Cincinnati, OH February 28 - The Vic - Chicago, IL March 1 - Intersection - Grand Rapids, MI March 4 - Jefferson - Charlottesville, VA

Label Information: Website: www.mascotlabelgroup.com

March 5 - Ziggy’s - Winston-Salem, NC

Twitter: @mascotlabelgroup

March 6 - Track 29 - Chattanooga, TN

Facebook: MascotLabelGroup

March 7 - Buckhead - Atlanta, GA March 18 - Islington Academy - London, England March 19 - New Morning - Paris, France March 20 - Kaufleuten Zurich - Zurich, Switzerland March 21 - Technik Museum - Munich, Germany March 23 - Batschkapp - Frankfurt, Germany March 24 - Kesselhaus - Berlin, Germany March 25 - Bluestage - Nuremberg, Germany March 26 - Rockpalast Crossroads Festival - Bonn, Germany March 27 - Paradiso Main Hall - Amsterdam, The Netherlands March 28 - Paard van Troje - Den Haag, The Netherlands April 2 - 6 - Byron Bay Bluesfest - Byron Bay, Australia Tickets for all JJ Grey & Mofro shows are

JJ Grey & Mofro will be hitting the road in February in support of Ol’ Glory,

currenty on sale at jjgrey.com/tour

including a trip to Europe and Australia.

Credits: Provogue Records/Mascot Label Group - All Rights Reserved

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 11

E

loho Jocelyn Efemuai is the youngest from a family of 7.

Born into a family of actors, Eloho has been singing for over two decades. Her love for singing developed at a very tender age and according to her late mum would make music out of any and everything and even did ask

if the things she thought in her heart could be written down as songs.

She toured with her father on several stage performances and was cast to take some solo parts.

Her love and passion for singing and her gifting has followed her everywhere she goes. She was the worship leader/pastor for over 5 years at The Father’s House Church in Aberdeen Scotland. Presently she is part of The Worship Team at The Junction Church Aberdeen.

Eloho is a devoted wife, dedicated mother to 3 gorgeous kids Nathan (11), Aimee(3), Josh (3). She is an ordained pastor, an anointed psalmist, a worship leader, recording artist, singer and multiple award winner whose ministry is impacting the lives of many globally. Eloho is based in Aberdeen, Scotland with her husband Uj Efemuai and the kids.

In 2011, Eloho set up Heartsong, a charity whose mission is to stir up the kind of worship that touches God and transforms lives by organizing praise and worship events as well as revival spots of worship; with renowned and upcoming worship leaders. Since founding Heartsong, Eloho has organized and hosted 4 worship nights in the city of Aberdeen. These worship nights/concerts have seen the likes of Bob

eloho Website: www.elohoefemuai.co.uk Twitter: @elohoefemuai

Fitts, Ian White, Chevelle Franklin, Isabella, Anna Barton, Steph Mcleod, D’Amadeus, Ify, Alexander Victor, Sola Okunuga and a host of others participating in them.

Eloho is passionate about leading worship and the people she leads in worship. She desires to see lives transformed in the place of worship.

Her worship is engaging, energetic, inspiring and heartfelt which can-

Facebook: /elohosmusic Credits: Eloho - All Rights Reserved

The

Cover Story

not fail to draw others in. Eloho loves God, loves to worship Him and cannot be held back.

She released her debut album ‘Arise’ in March 2014 and it has been a source of blessing and inspiration to many worldwide. In June 2014, Eloho received the Woman of Praise Award UK (WOPA). In July of 2014, she was nominated as Artist of the Year Europe and Arise album of the Year in the African Gospel Music Awards (AGMA). Also in October 2014 Eloho also received the Praisetek Gospel Music Awards (PGMA) for her contribution towards Praise and Worship.

and I converted to catholic. Became baptized, first Holy Communion and was even Confirmed. I guess I was searching for something. I was like every other teenage girl though lol. After secondary school went to live with my big sister in Lagos and she used to attend TREM. So went with her to one of the services and it was there I realized I wasn’t saved. The fact I was a catholic, been baptized etc, didn’t make me saved. I didn’t know Jesus personally, didn’t have the Holy Spirit. So that day sometime in 1991 I surrendered completely to Jesus.

Anyways after I went into the university and I thought wow, freedom from home and my big sister lol, I started the partying and general university life. Didn’t drink or smoke though. Just enjoyed partying and making a lot of noise. Had a

exclusive interview

group of friends and we were known on campus for our late nights. However in all of these, I always used to feel really bad especially when I got the looks from

Tell us about your salvation experience.

I was born into a Christian home, went to church with my parents, was baptized into Anglican church, my mum told me when I was 9 and an evangelist came to our city then, made an altar call and I asked her if I could go, she said yes. So I did actually give my life to Jesus when I was 9 but of course I didn’t live the life as you’d hear.

When it was time to go to secondary school I went to an all-girls catholic school 12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

the ‘SU’ people in school. I would cry at nights and beg God for forgiveness, each time I went back home on holidays, I would cry in church. Finally one of those days in school, I broke down in front of one of the ‘SU’ pastors, he prayed for me, I got baptized in the Holy Spirit and lived the remaining years in university as a Born again, spirit filled, tongue talking, demon chasing believer lol.

We understand that you have been singing since you were a child. You were in

You have been blessed to mentor other worshippers and singers judging

a singing group throughout every phase it seems. What prevented you from

from people’s testimonies... What do you consider your primary assignment

kick starting your music career officially until last year February?

in the lives of these people you mentor?

I believe in timing. It wasn’t just the right time; I believe God wanted to take

Hmmmm my primary assignment I would say is to inspire, support, and encour-

me through a process. I did actually attempt doing stuff in 2001/2002 hahahah.

age them to do what God has designed them to do.

Worked with an NGO then and my boss had purchased a studio from a couple who were selling off theirs. So produced about 2 or 3 demos. Sang one in my

What’s your most memorable experience as a worship leader?

church in Port Harcourt then, but that was it. Didn’t push it any further. I just

It was a few years ago when I was still the worship pastor in my then local

wanted to remain a worship leader in church.

assembly, I was leading worship and this lady who had come to church for a program were having just started screaming and rushed to the front, held me and

What inspired your song- Arise?

was just crying, weeping and worshipping and the whole atmosphere changed. It

Arise was born out of all I had been through and it is also prophecy fulfilled. I

was later she told me that the power of God in me and in her matched and was

was a worship pastor for over 5 years and not one, not two but several words

pulling down the presence of God. And God laid a verse of scripture in her heart

of prophecies were declared over me concerning producing an album. However

1 Sam 3:11. She said that encounter completely transformed her life. I will never

in mid-2012 things turned sour and I suffered rejection which affected me in

forget that experience.

so many ways. I lost my self-confidence and saw myself less than God sees me.

Stopped believing in myself and rather believed the lies of the devil. It was a re-

It’s interesting to know that you are a wedding planner too! Which comes first

ally rough period, but in all of that I felt God’s love and approval over me. I was

for you... wedding planning or music (worship)? Why? How do you combine

seeking man’s approval rather than God’s. I was seeking to please man rather

both?

than God but when my focus shifted from man to God, He reminded of His words

Hahahahha wedding planner? hmmmm I am a natural planner, which woman

and I knew I had to do this because of where He had brought me from and want-

isn’t hahah, and I just love and enjoy planning, organizing and coordinating.

ing to respond to Him in worship. I wanted to inspire others to worship Him and

Wedding planning is just a hobby. BTW where did you get that info? Lol. Didn’t

not give up on their dreams because of discouragements and challenges.

realize it was public. Well I am able to combine my planning skills with my music ministry as it does involve a lot of planning and organization.

We hear you were nominated for some awards, tell us about these: Oh yea in May I was awarded the Woman of Praise Award (WOPA) Uk. Arise my

Has your husband always been supportive of you music? Are there times

debut album was nominated as ‘Album of the Year, Europe in African Gospel Music

when your music has somewhat interfered with your family obligations?

Awards ( AGMA) and also nominated as Artiste of the Year Europe (AGMA) in

Oh yes he has been, if he wasn’t in support, ‘Arise’, Heartsong, Engage would have

July. Although I didn’t win, it was encouraging to have been recognized with my

only been dreams. He actually gave me the push when I gave up on everything.

debut. Also in October I was given the Praisetek Gospel Music Award (PGMA) for

Oh yes it has interfered oh lol but wisdom is profitable to direct. He’s my covering,

my contribution to praise and worship in UK.

my head and my first ministry is to him oh lol. So at such times; even when I am feeling terrible. I humble myself.

(Continued On Page 17)

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 13

5 TIPS FOR EATING ‘HOLIDAY’ HEALTHY The holidays have just kicked off, and here are 5 tips to help you eat healthy at all the parties when temptations run high to eat way too much too fast.

Eat until 80% Full

1.

The first thing that always happens over the holidays is that we eat too much. As a function of gluttony, being distracted by conversation or a good football game on the TV, we must always quantify on what

we are eating. In Japan they have a religious practice of Hara Hachi Bu that means eat until you are 80% full, or better yet, put that amount of food on your plate and no more. The Japanese for the most part are healthier than Americans with less diabetes and heart disease. Eating until 80% full is part of the answer.

Go for Low Carb Diet

2.

I’m a great believer in the Atkins low carb diet because it works! You see, the medical profession has been wrong for 50 years telling us to stay away from fats.

Insulin is the culprit to human disease as a growth factor, and of course carbohy-

drates are its mediator. What that means for these holiday meals is that you must avoid potatoes, bread and certain vegetables like carrots, corn and peas. The beauty of this diet is that you can eat

14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

everything else. Meat, fish, poultry, cranberry and more are ok. I would also cheat with a little pumpkin pie at the end because after all, we are all human and need a break once in a while. At least that’s the excuse that I use. Poor me!

Grill with Extra Care

3.

I would also like to add a personal reminder to be grateful and celebrate the spirit of the holidays versus take things for granted. Even with terrible diseases, my patients deal with them with courage and love for their friends and family that can’t be rivaled. If we lived today likes it’s our last, the world would be a much better place. Eat healthy this holiday and cherish every moment!

Grilling has become a great American past time not only at tailgating college events, but for the family holidays too.

Grilling

meats subjects them to very high temperatures, which you may not realize creates

heterocyclic amines that can cause cancer. Taking extra precautions while grilling can help avoid these consequences. For example, don’t use mesquite that makes the temperatures even higher. Avoid eating the burnt part of the meats, and use tongs (not forks) when turning the meats because a fork drives the temperatures deeper into the meat and increases the risk. Lastly, marinate the meat prior to cooking with vinegar, which slows down the cooking and lowers temperatures, therefore decreasing the risk.

Eat Slowly and Enjoy your Meal

Dr. David L Vastola Dr. David L Vastola runs a private practice in Palm Beach, Florida, and is often called the Sherlock Holmes of Medicine for uncovering problems that other medical professionals missed. He has 4 books, 5 children, has been married for 34 years, has an assistant lovingly named Patrick the Poodle, and is showcasing a new TV pilot called, Good Health Hunting, at film festivals. His new book Fountain of Youth: Nutritional Therapies (Carrel Books/Skyhorse Publishing) is due for release in 2015.

5 HEALTH TIPS MONTHLY COLUMN

4.

Eating healthy over the holidays not only includes what we eat and how to prepare it, but also how we eat it. Americans in general compared to other cultures like the Europeans eat too fast. Eating too quickly distracts you from the pleasure of eating

while causing you to eat too much. Slow down, chew each bite at least 15 times and be aware of what you are eating by using all your senses. This is the serious fallacy of gastric by-pass surgery because immediately you lose the enjoyment of eating, which is an important social event. How many friendships and business deals are done over a meal?

Walk with Family after Meals

5.

Walk with Family after Meals - Yes, even though the holidays are what they say, a holiday, that doesn’t mean you deserve a holiday from your exercise. Here’s an idea, forget that gym, and right after you eat, everyone get up and take a 45-minute walk

together. It could not be better for digestion, and will eliminate that post-prandial nap. By taking a walk with family and friends, who knows, you may even enjoy it. And by the way, walk without

Website: www.yourgoodhealthfl.com/dr-david-vastola/

earphones to enjoy the smells and sounds that Mother Nature has

Twitter: @DrDavidVastola

provided.

Facebook: DavidlVastola Photo Credits: Dr. David L Vastola - All Rights Reserved

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 15

10 tips for surviving christmas Do you become overwhelmed by the months being shorter due to public holidays, but the amount of work and due dates are staying the same?

Here is a ‘tips’ plan to help you keep your own sanity in check!

1. Organize your time. Making time for much needed rest.

Learn and practice the sentence, “thank you, but I will not be able to do that.”

2. Don’t confront family and friends during this time of year on past resentment and upsets. It will feel similar to learning Chinese while in the middle of an argument. In addition, do not let anyone confront you either. Declare amnesty during this time or learn forgiveness, after all, it is the time of giving even if it is moments of peace.

3 Do not ruminate and compare the past to the present. It is futile and absolutely useless. Remembering the past fondly is very different to never forgetting or reliving it every day.

The past is gone, and it is never what we truly remember it to be. It is far easier to fantasize about what we wanted in the past, than to stay focus on making our present the reality we desire. Do the work; get the reward- Stay Present!

4. Give back to your community. Volunteer if possible.

5. Save money by making gifts and doing small services for those you love. Also stay on budget, every year. Budgeting your Christmas gifts saves you time and money.

6. Eat right and exercise. Go for walks and window shop. It’s fun and you get some fresh air.

7. Sleep. Don’t party too hard that you burn yourself out. The New Year is coming; you want the past burdens of last year to be behind you, and be well rested for the future.

16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

8. No big changes during this time. Wait just a few more weeks till the chaos has calmed down and your back to your routine to change something. This is a highly emotional time of year that can make us act implusive.

9. Enjoy the time off and laughter. Sometimes the holidays are a great time to self-punish and get into the victim thinking mode. Please stop right there. Everyday is a moment to become anew, to shed our old skin of the past and be free from our resentments and bitterness. You can either choose to punish yourself into misery, and get a little sympathy from others; or you can live and enjoy the world around you NOW. 10. And this is not a joke. Say the Serenity prayer. Use it like a mantra to get through the roughest of patches “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference”. It does not matter what you believe in, if you believe in anything outside yourself even in a door knob having a higher power, these three verses will resonate peace in you.

GET INTO SURVIVAL MODE EARLY! Good luck my fellow people!

ELOHO INTERVIEW (Continued)

Considering that your brothers- Fred & Zack Amata have excelled greatly in

Go get it on all the digital platforms and give someone a gift.

the movie industry, did you ever consider going that path too? Why or why not?

5 things you want us to know about you?

Yea I did and would really have loved to. I even starred in two movies one by Ruke

*I love my family to bits, they are my world.

and the other by Jeta. But I guess that wasn’t God’s plan for me. I used to be very

*Have the 3 most adorable kids Nathan who is 11.

shy and hated pretending. So was hard to get into character.

Aimee and Josh who are twins and are they almost 4years old. *I Love Christmas it’s my favorite season ever.

What’s the gospel music scene like in the UK compared to Nigeria? Who are

*I love perfumes. My best gift ever. lol

your favorite Nigeria / International gospel artistes?

*I treasure friendships.

I believe music is the same everywhere, target audience differs. So what will appeal to Nigerians will not necessarily appeal to the Europeans. I love Hillsong, Darlene Zschech, William Mcdowell, Israel, Nicole Mullen, Tasha Cobbs, Natalie Grant, Kari Jobe, Kim Walker to name a few.

So what will your next project be?

There’s so much on my plate at the moment lol. But immediate would be the annual worship night I organize tagged ‘Engage’. That comes up on the 23rd of August. Looking forward to it with great excitement.

Have you ever thought of featuring in a music movie? {If YES, kindly feature Me. .LOL} I’d love to feature Darlene Zschech and you of course lol.

Any embarrassing/ memorable moment on stage? Forgetting my lyrics on stage and I cried lol Tell us about your latest Single. ‘Hark the Herald’ the traditional Christmas Carol with a twist, I promise you will enjoy it. It groovy and sets you in the festive mood.

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 17

I

Merna

n this vast universe, nothing is static. Everything

ing the self-indulgent tendencies of contemporary youth culture.

has the unlimited capacity for change. Palestinian

“Intervention (Superman)” finds Merna floating on a blissful cloud of

born and Toronto-based singer/songwriter Merna

blind faith against a sky of drums and soaring strings. The album

(formerly known as Ayah) blissfully spreads her

hits poignant note on “All I Want (I Wonder),” which was inspired by

wings in a space and time where evolution is

one of hip-hop’s most beloved outcasts: Andre 3000. But the song’s

imminent. After creating magical soundscapes with the likes of DJ

deeper meaning points to the increasingly desensitized state of the

Jazzy Jeff (Jill Scott) and James Poyser (The Roots), she brazenly for-

general populous. Merna takes a crash course in trip hop on the Ali

ays into uncharted sonic territory and with her dynamic opus The

Shaheed Muhammad-produced “The Reason.” The song magnificent-

Calling featuring stellar production by Makai Black and executive

ly shifts gears in syncopation and crescendo, birthing the makings

producer Ali Shaheed Muhammad (A Tribe Called Quest, Lucy Pearl).

of a dynamic new world opera. Merna and Ali Shaheed Muhammad

Evolution never sounded so sweet.

return on a hopeful note with the shimmering “A Little More,” an earthy piano ballad that rings with enough soul wrenching pas-

On The Calling, Merna skillfully sheds the skin of her former self,

sion to give Adele a run for her money - produced by Ali Shaheed

makes peace with the ghosts of her past, and births a masterpiece

Muhammad, with piano by Raymond Angry.

in the process. The Calling is equal parts redemption and testimony, chronicling a young woman’s journey to self-love, acceptance,

Though the creative process for The Calling involved a deep purg-

and strength. And with the help of producers Makai Black and Ali

ing of emotions and vulnerability, the result is a monumental work

Shaheed Muhammad, Merna stretches out on sonic beds that cull

of art that is destined to be one of the most talked about albums

from her wide range of musical influences.

of the year. An album that offers us a glimpse at the evolution of one of the most brilliant artists in recent history. She says, “This

Merna explains, “Musically, I always aim to break my own ground and

album is extremely personal. Truly a reflection of my life. I’m always

delve a little more into my history and things that I’ve been influenced

evolving as a person. Merna is coming full circle. Every part of my

by. For example, there are sounds and rhythms on this album that are

universe connected.”

African and Arab inspired. Not a lot of people know that my first ever band in Abu Dhabi was a rock band, and that I’m classically trained

Merna’s New Video “Better Run”

in piano.”

Thematically, the album sources the raw and honest introspection she’d been experiencing while in New York City. Moving between Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Seattle, and Toronto during her formative years proved to be a gift and a curse. Citing separation anxiety as a threatening force in certain areas of her life, Merna miraculously decided to break from a part of herself that she’d taken years to cultivate: Ayah. She chose to relinquish Ayah for

Twitter: @MernaKilledAyah

Merna, her birth name which means ‘beloved’ in Arabic.

Facebook: /MernaKilledAyah

The Calling opens with “Young & Reckless,” an edgy anthem outlin18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Credits: Merna - All Rights Reserved

all hands on deck DJ SPOTLIGHT

“The Tox Doc” Dr. Noreen Khan Mayberry

MONTHLY FEATURE Anything that has negative or adverse effect on your health, your body, your

Surviving in a Toxic Enviornment

mood is a toxin, or toxic, because toxins are really just the natural poisons, but a lot of times in the news you’ll hear everything referred to as toxins, but toxins

Today we bring you a fantastically informative and important conversa-

are like mold or chemicals that your body produces inherently, viruses, anything

tion about health and wellness with certified toxicologist Dr. Noreen

that’s natural. A natural poison, that’s a toxin, but anything that’s man made

Khan-Mayberry. Dr. Noreen or “The Tox Doc”, as she’s also known, is a

is a intoxicate, so they all can be called toxic, but toxins rolls off the tongue

world renown expert in her field with an emphasis on food and nutritional

better, so I always like to clarify that so people know the real deal between

toxicology. She has received a number of awards, accolades and profes-

toxins and toxicants.

sional recognition from her peers for her work. Some of these include the Trailblazer Award for Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

Okay, well thank you for clearing that up. Now, let me ask you this, okay.

(2013) and the Award of Excellence from the Council of Inspector Generals

What are some of the toxins that people encounter every day? Because I

on Integrity and Efficiency (2012).

know we get on a train, we get in a bus, and we go outside. We breathe in

Dr. Noreen has also been featured on

many television and radio

this good old shi**y city air,

shows and she strives to

okay?

bring this information to

Well, I will say this: the easi-

the masses. Teaching in

est way to expose yourself to

a manner that shows the

chemicals is just to keep on

toxic conditions, environ-

breathing, and so we’re not

ments and ingredients in

going to stop.

our every day lives and

Well, damn, let me just kill

simple ways to avoid them

myself right now.

and increase our health

No, we can’t do that, but our

and quality of life.

bodies are designed amazingly. It can convert all of those

Dr. Noreen, Welcome to

toxic chemicals and turn them

Running off At The Mouth

into something that is less

on Drtybsmnt Radio. Now

toxic or that’s more water sol-

the first thing I want to know is about my coco ciroc. I hope you don’t tell

uble, meaning that it dissolves in water so that it can go into our waste and be

me I cant have my coconut ciroc.

eliminated from our body. So our livers work to get rid of it, so the liver is the

Thank you for having me. Well, that coconut ciroc is all about the dose. It’s the

major detoxifying organ. But to answer your question, we’re exposed to nitrogen

dose that makes the poison in toxicology. I hope that everyone will follow me

oxide species, sulfur oxide species, ozone, all kinds of hydrocarbon emissions in

on twitter, @DrNoreen, and it is a pleasure to be here with you tonight and talk

our air. It just, it depends on city to city. As a matter of fact, this morning I was

some toxicology with you. So let’s talk about this coconut ciroc...

talking about pollution in the city, and Easton, PA made number six on the list, and the top five cities were all in California which, of course, Los Angeles is still

Wait, wait, now, yes, because we’re going to talk about that, honey child,

number one as the most polluted air in the nation.

because I get my little drink on. I need to know if I’m poisoning my body, girl, ‘cause I drink enough of that. So toxicology is the science of poison. So these are the things that we eat, drink, get airborne, whatever, right, that

(Continued On Page 20)

effects our body negatively. Am I correct Dr. Noreen?

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 19

“The Tox Doc” INTERVIEW

(Continued)

All of that sounds so scary. China and Japan are even worse than we are.

Yes, any kind of packaging. Now, the thing is, canned are lined with –

China is horrible. I mean, it’s a wonderful place to visit. I enjoyed myself

Wait, wait, wait. I’m still at the cans. Hold up. Don’t go too fast, now. You

thoroughly when I went there. However, I was so glad that my child was not

know, I took the short yellow school bus when I was a kid.

with me, because I would have been so concerned about her breathing that

Well, I’m going to tell you why it’s no good for you. The cans are lined with the

horrible, horrible air, so I limited the amount of time I spent outdoors on

chemical called bisphenol A. Bisphenol A is highly toxic to you. It can cause

several days, because you could just – if you looked outside, I mean, there was

endocrine disruption, which can cause mood changes, and it’s just really –

just a thick layer of nasty, dirty, filthy, just dust or smog. It was just – it had

it’s not good for you at all. So there’s BPA that’s everywhere, so when you

everything in it, and there’s so many cars on the road there. It’s madness, so

hear BPA, BPA free, you know, that’s why there’s such a movement towards

we actually have it good here.

it, because it is so unhealthy for you and it’s a potential cancer causing chemical. Now, it’s lined – the cans that are lined with it, it’s so that the food

We really can’t avoid the poisons, but there are some things that we can

doesn’t stick in the cans so that when you turn the can over, everything will

do to counteract the poisons, correct?

fall out. So yeah, most cans are lined with BPA, even the good – even what

Right, there are. So the thing about it is that we’re living, we’re not dead, it’s

you think is good for you like the tuna.

a slow kind of poisoning of our body. So when your liver starts to not function as well as it should, it goes to a point that your

I refuse to give up my bumble bee tuna fish, damn it.

body is being exposed to more chemicals than your liver can efficiently

Then you’re going to have to get my supplement, then, because see,

process and eliminate. So

that’s exactly why I designed

what does the body do?

my supplement, because it’s

The body says, “Okay, most

unrealistic to ask people to

of these chemicals dissolve

give up everything. Certain

in fat, so I’m going to cre-

things they’re just not going

ate some more fat cells”,

to give up, and my supple-

so a lot of times when you

ment is a hundred percent

see a gut or a pooch, that’s

vegetarian, all plant based to

not just necessarily because

fulfill those micro nutrient

you’re eating too much, but

needs, but it’s targeted spe-

really it can be a sign of

cifically for liver and kidney

your liver not functioning

health, okay? So that is exact-

appropriately, and we call

ly – you are the perfect case

it the liver belt, as toxicolo-

for why I developed the sup-

gists. Our bodies need micro nutrients and macro nutrients. We get a ton of

plement that I developed, because there’s really, there’s – you can buy all of

macro nutrients: protein, carbohydrates, a ton of more than we need on the

the ingredients in my supplement separately and take a lot of pills, but I tried

protein end, but as far as our micro nutrients, our vitamins and our minerals,

to make it easy and put it in one bottle. Go to Doctornoreen.com, get it now.

our enzymes that our body needs to function are not as many. A lot of times we’re deficient, the easiest way to get these vitamins and minerals into your

Contact Information:

body is to get enough fruits and vegetables, because if your body doesn’t have

Twitter: @Frtybsmnt

the fuel that it needs, it’s not going to function optimally. It’s just like your car.

Facebook (MultiMedia) /Drtybsmnt

but we don’t take care of our bodies that way. We don’t make sure that we’re putting the top quality fuel in our bodies. We’ll just grab what’s convenient

Interviewed by Flawless da Rap Chick for DRTYBSMNT MULTIMEDIA

and eat everything that’s modern, in a package, or a quick slice on the corner, there’s nothing wrong with that, but if that’s all you’re eating – yes.

Next Issue- Part 2- “Super Foods and What to Avoid”

Let me stop you for one second, because you said it comes in a package, does that include stuff that comes in a can?

20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

DJ SINCERE for DRTBSMNT MULTIMEDIA - All Rights Reserved

doreen taylor

Doreen Taylor’s homegrown grassroots upbringing gave way to a

ing efforts to connect children and the millennial generation to

sudden and remarkable career at an early age when her town, fam-

parks in anticipation of their upcoming centennial in 2016.

ily, congregation and most importantly Doreen herself, realized the true power and strength of her voice. While some singers feel per-

When Doreen isn’t writing music, recording or performing, she

forming since childhood has burned them out or shown them the

is a big believer about “paying it forward”. Besides being named

wrong side of the industry, she believes her young start has only

an ‘Ambassador of the National Parks’, she is also an advocate for

made her stronger as a vocalist, songwriter and performer. With

St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and has raised thousands of dollars

viral YouTube hits such as “Judgment Day”, “Last Call (for alcohol)”,

for their organization. She was named the honorary chair of the

“Heartbeat” and “Summertime” off her breakout, debut country/rock

50th Anniversary Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Gala in November 2013

solo album “Magic,” the award winning singer/songwriter has been

and has hosted concerts nationwide in honor of Andrew’s Army,

called one of the hottest up and coming musical stars by count-

Unyts, Jaws Youth Playbook (sports legend Ron Jaworski’s charity)

less publications and television like CMT, the Lifetime Network, CBS,

and UrbanPromise. She is also a “good ol’ American girl” and sup-

NBC, FOX, CW Network, Ok! TV, etc. With a Masters degree in Opera

ports many organizations that assist our troops and their families.

Performance, Taylor has played numerous leading roles in various

One of her many projects was her book and CD “Coming Home”

companies on and off Broadway and took the leap into country/

where she donated the profits to the Special Operations Warrior

rock music releasing her album “Magic” which garnered her the

Foundation (SOWF) and even hosted a red carpet, celebrity gala

“2012 Suggested Artist of the Year” Award from the ‘Song of the Year’

in their honor in Philadelphia, PA. A proud supporter of numerous

international songwriting competition. Doreen’s music videos, “Last

local and national charities, Doreen is committed to making a posi-

call (for Alcohol),” “Heartbeat” and “Summertime” landed on the ‘Top

tive change in various communities and across the nation.

100 Country Official Music Videos of the Week’ chart at the same time. Doreen’s “Magic” album was also hand selected by Bose and the #1 Home Shopping Network, QVC to be played on all on-air demonstrations for promotion of their Bose Wave Sound System since October 2013 [“Music’s My Magic” and “Perfect for Me”].

After receiving an overwhelming response from her headline National 2013/2014 “MAGIC” Tour Kick-off Concert and selling out dozens of shows across America including Los Angeles, New York City, and Philadelphia. Taylor was honorably chosen to collaborate with the nation’s leading park advocacy organization, the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association, on a new national anthem in honor of the US National Parks. “Colors of the USA” premiered at

Website: www.doreentaylormusic.com

the ‘Salute to the Parks Gala’ in Washington D.C. in April and 50%

Twitter: @DoreenTaylor

of the proceeds from every download of the song is being donated

Facebook: /DoreenTaylorFanpage

to the NPCA to help advance their mission to protect our national parks. Doreen was recently named ‘Ambassador of the National Parks’ by the National Parks Conservation Association for her ongo-

Credits: Doreen Taylor - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 21

P

PAUL McDONALD

aul McDonald has been touring and playing original music for almost 10 years. From 2005 to 2010 he was playing almost 200 shows a year with his bands Hightide Blues and The Grand Magnolias. Paul saw national success touring, playing clubs, and opening for large acts such as Zac Brown, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sara Bareilles, and various other well known artists.

Paul has played for large festivals such as Bonnaroo, Hangout Festival, and SXSW, just to name a few.

Paul’s band The Grand Magnolias’ album had landed on billboard charts in 2011.

Later in 2011, Paul took an 8th place on the FOX television show “American Idol” and toured worldwide on an even larger scale.

Paul performed in arenas and late night shows from Jay Leno to Good Morning America, Regis & Kelly, Craig Ferguson, and various other televised shows.

In 2011, Paul started a band with, his wife at the time, Nikki Reed.

22 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Paul and Nikki toured around the world and released an EP that landed on Billboard charts. A song from that album was released as a single for the Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2 soundtrack called “All I’ve Ever Needed” In 2013 Paul landed a co-star role on the NBC television show Parenthood.

Since then Paul released the debut album, “I’m Not Falling”, in July of 2014, with Nikki Reed that also debuted on Billboard charts and peaked at #2 on iTunes category: SingerSongwriter albums.

Currently, Paul splits his time from Nashville and Los Angeles; working in the studio, writing and recording for his highly anticipated debut solo album that will release in the 1st quarter of 2015.

Paul’s first single off the upcoming debut album, “Bright Lights” is already soaring up the charts. The Official Music Video for “Bright Lights” also released in November 2014; leaving listeners hungry for more....more....more!

exclusive interview “bright lights”

BWD Magazine’s Ms V sat down to talk with Paul about his new upcoming Solo Debut album release and plans for 2015.

BWD: You’ve been touring and playing original music for almost 10 years now. From the Spotlight of American Idol, Lead Singer of the band Hightide Blues; which you later renamed “The Grand Magnolias”, into the dynamic “duo” formation with Nikki Reed and even MORE excitingly, you’re currently in the studio working on an highly anticipated debut solo album.

You’ve been busy Paul so let’s jump on in!!

BWD: In July of 2014, you released a debut album with Nikki Reed that also debuted on Billboard charts and peaked at #2 on iTunes “Singer-Songwriter” albums. Putting all the tabloids aside, what was the inspiration behind this album and how were you able to complete this project in a positive light; despite any differences in your personal lives?

feel as though the past 10 years of growth, as well as July’s album release has played a major role in your recent solo writing’s and if so, why?

Yes. Absolutely. I think you’re always growing as an artist and if not then you’re definitely doing something wrong. I’m obviously in different hits, bases and zones all the time with different projects and after 6 years touring with The Grand Magnolias and Hightide Blues; then 3 years in being a Duo with Nikki, I wanted to kind of experiment and do something different, kind of for myself. I’ve never done the solo thing. I wanted a bigger sound with a kind of more modern instrumentation and production. Also, I’ve learned allot. Over the past few years my songwriting process has grown. I’ve gotten to work with some great people and have learned allot from them. Over the past 10 years I’ve been in different bands and in different sounds.

Now that I kind of get to be in the driver’s seat, [laughs] I get to choose what I want to write about and how the music is going to evolve and sound. I’m excited about that and real happy.

{laughs} You know, I look at that album as kind of a beautiful moment in time.

It captured the 3 years that Nikki and I spent together. All the songs came from

BWD: Without giving away too much, can you tell us a little about your

real life experiences along with the ups and downs of being in a real life re-

current album project? Will “Bright Lights” be the leading track? When

lationship. What’s funny is that we actually finished recording the album like

will it be released and what can the listeners expect from your sound and

a few months prior to when we split up so when we released it, it was about

lyrical storytelling?

a half year later so we didn’t decide on much more with the record or do any

Bright lights is the first song that we wanted to put out there. I’m not sure if

promo with it, just because it was an interesting period in both of our lives. We

that is going to be the leading track or not. There are so many sounds and there

wanted to get the music out. I honestly don’t know if we would have finished it

is kind of a wide variety of music on the album. As for the songwriting content,

after the fact that we did it in December and I think we kind of separated a few

the album really just documents the past year of my life. When I’m writing

months later. I love that album. I look at it as a beautiful moment in time. How

songs, I tend to write about personal things because it’s just easier for me. It’s

many people can actually say they created an album? Maybe quite a few but it

harder for me to create stories and make up things in my head. I’m better at

was cool. We both loved this record and I still love singing with Nikki. We just

just kind of writing down what I’m feeling at the time so, obviously there’s going

finished a song recently for a soundtrack so yeah, we’re still buds.

to be songs about my past relationship because that was a huge part of what’s been going on with me this past year. There is also songs about growth, rebirth

BWD: With the latest single and video release of “Bright Lights”, in No-

and learning about myself and this new freedom that I have.

vember of 2014, we found the lyrics to be very inspirational for the listener.

Especially, the way its tempo leads up to and kicks into the chorus. Do you

(Continued On Page 24)

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 23

PAUL McDONALD INTERVIEW (Continued)

BWD: A decade spent as a singer/songwriter alone is a major

at least playing some shows. I tracked a few songs that I wrote a few

accomplishment in itself; however, if you had to choose only one,

months back with Jonathan Pears; the guitar player for the band. He

which would be your greatest of achievements and why?

has been my guitar player and sort of partner in crime for the first 6

That’s really kind of hard to put out into the Universe, just saying

years of touring. He was in Hightide Blues and The Grand Magnolias.

something like that. Knock on wood, like you said, a decade of doing

Right when I moved back from LA we tracked some songs together and

music full time is a huge accomplishment in itself. I’ve been fortunate

we actually discussed releasing the songs under The Grand Magnolias

to play music full time and I got to do late night shows, play arenas

and getting that project going again. The only bummer is half the

and I got to share stages with some of my favorite artists. But I still

band; when I moved out to LA, picked up other jobs and moved on to

feel like I haven’t accomplished so many things that I’ve set out to do.

other career paths outside of music. It would be a little bit tough to

I almost feel like my career is just kind of starting with this solo record

recruit my buddies back when they’re making a solid salary with a real

you know. It’s kind of taken me 10 years to figure out exactly what I

job. ‘Like hey man, you want to tour some clubs man’ [laughs] but you

want to do and there is still so much more to do. I feel like the greatest

never know. I really loved the music that we made with the band all the

accomplishment is yet to come.

guys are still some of my closest friends.

BWD: How would you describe your musical sound and songwriting

BWD: We ARE curious to know, what made you pick up the guitar,

style for the public audience; if they have never seen or heard of

who were some of your musical influences growing up, and do you

“Paul McDonald” until our interview?

play any other instruments?

Well, it’s a mixture of Pop and Folk. My background influences leads

It’s funny, like when I was 16 I think this is how it all came about. My

into stuff like traffic to mash; James Taylor, that’s like what my parents

parents raised me on Classic Rock like I was telling you about. Joni

kind of raised me on. Ryan Adams is one of my huge songwriter influ-

Mitchell, Zepplin, Beatles that kind of stuff and I was always in the

ences. So I listen to allot of that stuff. My voice kind of brings itself to

music. I had like the coolest collection of music and I always kind of

a certain sound but it’s still its own thing. I’m not trying to sound like

thought of myself as a music listener and I was always the guy that told

somebody else or do anything other than be myself. I think its Pop/

my friends, ‘you got to check out this new band that no one knows of’

Folk music that’s got lyrical depth of real songwriting but has some

and then my parents bought me a guitar when I was 16. A bunch of my

more modern production and unique sound. It feels good. That’s kind

friends were in bands; in high school, and I kind of just started picking

of what I learned. If it makes you feel good then I like it too.

up the guitar, learned a few chords and started writing songs. From there it just kind of spiraled into a ‘hey man you’re pretty good, you

BWD: Now that you are “Officially” breaking out as a Solo Artist has

want to play this bar, get paid and booze and food’ so I was like that

“The Grand Magnolias” band been disbanded? If not, do you still

sounds like a great idea. I do play a bunch of other instruments. Piano,

play a role in the band? If so, any chance of getting back together

banjo mandolin, I pretty much play most instruments. Not phenomenal

for a future project?

at any of them but I’m good enough to get by on coming up with parts

The Grand Magnolias always have a chance of getting back together,

and writing songs but the guitar is the one I feel most comfortable on.

24 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

BWD: And Finally….What’s next for Paul McDonald? Outside of your current happenings and releases, do you have other project happenings coming up that you would like to share with us?

Anything that we haven’t touch on in our interview?

2015. Yeah, hopefully the sooner the better. I’m still in the studio finishing up on it right now. I think the plan was for around March.

I’m just ready to get it out there and I want people to hear this music.

When you spend so much time working on a record, this is the longest that I’ve had to sit and write. I’m just ready to get back out on the road. I haven’t been on a tour since last year. I played a handful of shows this year to get out and test new things. I’m just ready to release this so I can get back out on the road, visit new cities, and see all the people again.

BWD: Thank you for the interview! Best of Luck to you and we are definitely looking forward to your solo debut album release!!

Paul McDonald’s New Single “Bright Lights”

Website: www.thepaulmcdonald.com Twitter: @thePaulMcDonald Facebook: /thepaulmcdonald Instagram: thepaulmcdonald

Paul McDonald’s New Video “Bright Lights”

Credits: BWD Magazine Paul McDonald - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 25

F

rom the sunny shores of a Floridian sky to the

underground and across a global stage.

ears and eyes of a worldwide audience BWD has grown from an acorn of an idea into an oak

Not only affording the world of music a genuine outlet to purvey

tree of industry-might, its roots deep within the

it’s unbridled talents BWD Radio also promotes and inspires the

strata of social sites and online promotions, its

musicians it unveils, the multi-faceted nature of BWD incorporat-

branches far-reaching and bearing fruitfulness aplenty.

ing all avenues of generating awareness and recognition to the talents it reveals, encouraging the growth of their fan-base and

Starting out developing websites Ms. Keach aka Ms. V proved her-

helping propel them onto the iPods and bedroom walls of a global

self more guru than mere graphic designer, her final works forging

audience.

a reputation of being the go-to girl for all things attention grabbing and intuitive.

With the recent successful launch of the BWD Radio app the audience all artists are looking to find are as close as they have ever

Quickly she began laying the foundations for what would become

been, right on the other side of millions of touch-screens and

her own empire, reputation growing with each engagement and

monitors, smart-phones and tablets all bearing the app’s visage

the horizon of possibilities expanding even further than first

across their surface.

dreamed.

Now a major player in the world of radio and media, the leader in Whilst making some of the connections that would see BWD

the field of generating buzz around the artists it plays on its non-

become a leader in its field murmurings and mutterings regarding

stop, commercial free station, and proudly wearing the banner of

the state of the music business came filtering through the wire.

being The Home Of The Indie Artists BWD founder Ms. V has proven

Listening to the sounds of discontent chattering in the background

you don’t need a thousand lawyers fighting over who gets the

it became clear that, for all the talented individuals with credible

best parking spot in front of offices to forge a dominant empire

worth vying for the attentions of a label or promoter, those in the

of multi-faceted out-lets; as the late great British entertainer Roy

Industry were more concerned with how profitable a bottom-line

Castle once said ‘Dedication’s all you need’.

they could wring from their talents than the merits and music of the people themselves.

An avid appreciator of new and classic music Veralyn saw a gap

Contact Information:

in the market for someone with the knowledge and nous, connections and cunning, and - of course - the dedication to provide

Website: www.bwdradio.com

a credible alternative to those as-yet unsigned greats of music, a

Twitter: @BWDRadio_

platform for them to launch themselves into the airwaves and soar

Facebook: BWDRadio

into the charts.

Instagram: BWDPromotions (Sponsers)

With each passing year BWD has grown in both experience and influence, the listening world turning up the dial to be the first to hear the latest unsigned extravagances of talent bursting from the

Photo Credits: BWD Graphics - All Rights Reserved.

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 26