#1 Variety Magazine - A Worldwide Puclication
RALF GUM
NOVEMBER 2014 Vol 21
ALL HANDS ON DECK
ablum “in my city” hits #1 On itunes
jessica peel featured model of the month
ebola prevention 5 tips
OVER a decades worth of experience and knowledge
relax: thanksgiving tips
Features 04 Jessica Peel Featured Model Of The Month
06 Mirrored Shower Refined With The Perfect Essence
08 SirReal Lyrics Laced With The Die Hard Truths
10 Kazo Songs That Stand By Themselves
17 Sincere Grant A Noticeable Passion For Music
18 Aaron Staccato A Great Ear, Hand, And Foot for Music
23 Uzo O’achi Internationally Acclaimed Worship Leader
26 L Phonix Inspiration Instilled From An Early Age
COVER STORY 12 Ralf GUM Album Release Hits No.1 On iTunes’ Chart
Lifestyle 09 Thanksgiving Tips The Mashed Potato Secret
24 VIM/VIGR Innovative And Stylish Compression Socks
HEALTH 14 5 Ebola Prevention Tips The Scary Truth & How To Avoid Panic
16 Simple Sheets The Dirty Truth About College
ENTERTAINMENT 7 Buffalo Bites (Monthly Feature) The Creative Audio And Music Production World
19 All Hands On Deck (DJ Spotlight) DJ Sincere Interviews Uncle Murda
25 Candyman Vending Service Unique Advertising For Music Fans And Artists Alike 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
november’s featured model of the month
H
ello my name is Jessica and I am located in College Station, TX. A huge fitness fanatic, lover of animals, and
Since I am a huge animal lover (I love my two Boston Terriers - Cooper and Jester) I also hope to one day start up a rescue shelter to help all animals in need.
I have always been into fitness but it wasn’t until the recent years that I’ve taken it more seriously and even started to work towards a better physique.
Why a rocker chick? Rock music always seemed to say the right things and I felt a connection to the lyrics of my favorite band Nine Inch Nails. This led me to their concerts around Texas and to even joining their VIP program.
rocker chick.
STATS: Birthdate: October 27 Height: 5’7” Measurements: 32D-24-35 Hair: Brunette Eyes: Green Current Residence: College Station, Tx
4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
As a teen, I had done some modeling and enjoyed, however, I felt like it wasn’t really what I truly wanted to do with my life. It also didn’t help that growing up I’d moved around a lot so it made it hard to settle in, but deep down I always felt like College Station was my home.
I also follow my boyfriend’s band around as much as possible in my free time and it’s not just because he’s my boyfriend. His band Hindsight really rocks!
jessica peel
Contact Information Facebook: Jessica.Peel.165 Instagram: JessicaMaePeel Twitter: @JessicaPeel07 Photo Credits - Devine Imaging - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 5
mirrored shower
M
irrored Shower are not a band to rush things! They like to refine their music, making sure to catch the perfect essence of each song before they are satisfied.
Mirrored Shower’s three previous albums, Have You Seen This Man, Reflections and Return Of The Moddey Dhoo, were artistically well received and they are hoping that the 2015 release of ‘Veils’ will echo that success.
However, neither are they standing still, taking account of the changing media music scene to work on their latest album, which will be a digital download of music to accompanying still and moving images.
The album features songs that capture the zeitgeist, including Home For The Brave, dedicated to the memory of WW1 Veterans through to Your Hands, a dancer’s tale of ‘fame as pain’ told from her secret lover’s gaze.
From their beginnings in 2000 as a three piece with Jamiroquia’s Matt Johnson, they have morphed into a two-piece combo, working with musicians they admire to produce three albums over the span of years. Their digital download, Dance Of The Seven Veils, will be their fourth.
Although Mirrored Shower consider themselves to be predominantly a studio band these days, they are not adverse to appearing on the festival circuit or playing at live venues, in order to enjoy the satisfaction of airing their latest tunes in public.
Ian Uren and Sonny Lovell share out the creativity, with Sonny producing the songs written, largely, by Ian. Ian’s lyrics are finely crafted, poetic even, which figures because Ian gigged for the UK at the poetry symposium in Washington, DC and contributed to the longest poem for world peace.
Contact Information: Website: www.mirroredshower.co.uk Twitter: @IanCUren Facebook: /pages/Mirrored-Shower/222555441124149 Photo Credits - Mirrored Shower - All Rights Reserved
6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
buffalo bites monthly feature I’m sitting at the back of our control room here at Crown Works Studio
logue to digital converters which feeds the sound into Pro Tools).
writing this piece, at that stage between gathering and testing gear and
Back to the ASP880 now and the low cut filter is variable from 25 up
speakers, finishing up odd bits of painting and other little jobs before we
to 250Hz and is unobtrusive to the sound after filtering, leaving plenty of
open for business properly.
punch and detail in the mid-range.
This testing session has been absolutely crucial to help us try out a few
The first thing we recorded was acoustic guitar using Mid Side technique
old and new toys to give us a head start when the first clients arrive to start
with an AKG C414 set to cardioid for Mid and an SE R1 ribbon mic on the
tracking. Not only that, it’s been FUN!
Side duties. The ASP880 pre’s worked fantastically given the vast difference
It’s with great relief I can say we are nearing the end of our build and
between microphone types and their output levels to provide a warm but
have started making noises in Wolverhampton. Have a look at our progress
clear and detailed picture of the guitar which grew in stereo when the sides
from our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/crownworksstudio if you’d
were pushed slightly.
like to put some images to my ramblings. Around four months ago we started building our studio into part of what used to be the Crown decorating company’s factory in Wolverhampton.
Vocally we’ve been testing microphones on the ladies this week, curious to find out how our ‘go to’ vocal mic’s compare against each other and a couple of choice underdogs.
To be honest, the place was a mess as you’ll see from our picture history
Since we now have the channels and pre amps to make fair compari-
but over the last 16 weeks we have created (in my humble opinion) quite a
sons we set up two LDC (Large Diaphragm Condenser) mic’s a long ribbon
pleasant, great sounding studio and what’s better than that?
microphone and a Small Diaphragm Condenser which has been modified
Well frankly, using the place is better than building the place in my opinion and to someone who feels far more at home in front of Pro Tools than a workbench, now the fun really starts.
by an incredibly clever mate.. More on that another time! Our quick tests showed pretty much what we expected to find. An LDC has; generally speaking, more ‘body’ or warmth but highly detailed high end,
Our Audient ASP880’s arrived and landed swiftly in the rack and were
the SDC focuses much more around the mid-range say 500Hz to 5kHz and
plugged straight in for a test session with drums. For anyone who hasn’t
the ribbon mic, although not as detailed in the high end from 5kHz and
heard of Audient they’re a modest UK company based in Hampshire, produc-
above due to the natural high frequency roll-off characteristic of ribbon
ing high quality intuitive hardware for serious studio applications (check
microphones.
out their flagship ASP8024 console for sheer simplistic elegance).
The LDCs were: the SE Gemini 5 FET/Valve and another SE mic, this
Their latest offering is the ASP880, an update on their already popular
time a Z5600a II. Both very clear and detailed broad frequency mic’s but the
8 channel microphone preamps, are nothing short of fantastic. Whether
Gemini was the mic of choice on this particular vocal because we wanted to
using a dynamic, capacitor or ribbon mic the pre’s seem to be able to handle
enhance the higher frequencies but leave a natural low end.
any loading comfortably, and offers plenty of clean gain for the quieter
The surprise of the session was the prototype SDC prepared by a tech-
moments. Not having a mixing desk (to start with) meant that we needed
nical friend of mine, other than a slight hiss, this mic was by far the most
to find pre’s that sounded great without having to EQ on the way in. This
natural sounding mic on test, the hiss will be corrected and the mic tested
means that mic positioning will be our EQ until the signal reaches Pro Tools
again. Next time I’m pretty sure this little prototype will win hands down
and we gain access to the plugins from there.
with its flat response, and maybe I’ll tell you a little more about it.
Oldskool lol. Fortunately the ASP880 responds incredibly to the slight-
That’s it for this month then, I hope you’ve picked up a couple of things.
est change in mic position so the process so far is painless and actually
Don’t forget to head over to Crown Works Studio on Facebook to keep up
very pleasant. There is also the option to use the Burr Brown converters
with developments at the studio’s new artists, equipment, and experiments.
via their line in configuration meaning you can use the preamp and then via d-sub breakout cables, access any of your rack gear before returning it
Next month we’ll have a little look at some of the plugins that are helping shape our mixes and an update on our new artists.
to the asp for conversion. Or just use the line in and out d-sub to send line
Feel free to contact me either through the magazine or on our FB studio
level signals straight to the converters bypassing the preamps completely.
page if there’s something you’d like to touch on in this or any of my pieces
(A Dsub for anyone who’s interested is a connector port which appears on
for BWD.
some hardware in place of separate sockets. The connector breaks out into
Until then: Happy Tracking!
a variety of configurations including XLR, mono jack and TRS all on their own cables. Our Dsubs are 8 Tip, Ring, Sleeve plugs (like a 6.3mm stereo
Buffalo Music Production - www.facebook.com/gazz.rogers
jack plug) and serve to carry sounds from our ASP880s to our outboard
Crown Work Studio - www.facebook.com/crownworksstudio
compressors, another TRS Dsub brings the signals back to the Audient ana-
Photo Credits: Buffalo Bites - All Rights Reserved
7 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
sirreal
Sirreal is an original hip hop artist bringing hard hitting beats and lyrical talent to every performance. As an entertainer Sirreal knows how much hard work and dedication it takes to be one of Vancouver Islands’ best. Born in Comox, BC and currently holding it down for Nanaimo, this hip hop phenomenon takes full advantage of today’s technology wrangling his army of fans via internet, music videos, albums, concert promotions and a constant hustle.
Just like the music industry, the life of this rising star has not been easy. Devastated by the untimely death of both his father and older brother, Sirreal learned to stand as a man conquering his demons of addiction and poverty, and now instead of drugs Sirreal boldly laces his lyrics with the die hard truths of reality and its consequences whether they be positive or negative. Sirreal’s musical style bridges all genres of music by blending truthful hard-hitting lyrics with a live touring stage band by the name of Blue Satellite. A perfect fit for any lineup, you may be surprised at what these guys can do. Sponsored by Nanaimo’s very own Smoke Zone, D. Clarke Plumbing , Underground Skateboards and Beauty Queen Salon, Sirreal’s reputation precedes him. He continues to shine with
8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
over 50 shows on Vancouver Island. Opening for such artists as Tech Nine, Royce Da 5”9, Bone Thugs N Harmony, B Real of Cypress Hill, Heavy Metal Kings (Vinny Paz and Ill Bill), Masta Ace, Bif Naked, The Beatnuts, Daniel Wesley, Moka Only, Mad Child, Sweatshop Union, and Juno award winning rap artist Belly, just to name a few.
With great determination and gratitude, Sirreal’s “Self Centred” album has been released independently and will be showcased on many upcoming shows and music videos in the next few months, with dates all across Vancouver Isle and the mainland. If you haven’t heard him yet, now is your chance to give one of Vancouver Island’s finest a listen. Having recently linked up with his live band Blue Satellite; Sirreal’s stage show has definitely taken his career to a whole other level. Contact Information Instagram: TheRealSirreal Twitter: @SirrealTalk Facebook: SirrealMusic Website: Reverbnation.com/Sirreal Photo Credits: Alan Bailward Photography - All Rights Reserved
thanksgiving tipS Relax and use the ‘bake and fake’ mashed potato secret!
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to enjoy family and friends, so you don’t want to stress out about the dinner preparations. This old “bake and fake” mashed potato trick will serve you well all year long, but it is important that you keep it under wraps or you will ruin it for everyone else. There is no need to stand and peel or boil potatoes for mashed potatoes. This is the way large churches do their mashed potatoes for Wednesday night supper. You cheat a bit and combine mashed potatoes in the box with a few baked potatoes you zapped in the microwave.
1. Throw 2 or 3 potatoes into the microwave to bake. 2. Wrap them in foil when they come out for around 10 minutes to hold in the moisture. 3 Prepare your spud flakes for around 6 people from the box by the directions, but make them stiffer and dryer than usual. 4. Spoon out the baked potato insides into the pot. 5. Add a bit more milk and butter if necessary. 6. Whip them up a bit with the hand mixer, and you have beautiful, homemade mashed potatoes that will fool them all! 7. You can increase this to serve more people, if desired.
Ingredients: > 3 potatoes > Spud Flakes > Milk > Butter > Water
Very Important: Prepare these before your guests arrive and hide the evidence.
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 9
F
kazo
resh on the scene…and much talked about band, Kazo, have announced the details of their eagerly awaited new studio EP….Cocktails & Canapés. Produced by Happy Monday’s Musical Director Dan Broad, at The Edge Recording Studios in Alderley Edge, the Manchester four piece are now ready to be unleashed. Supported by Rapper Adam C, from hip hop act Akcadamy, Kazo performed at The Acoustic Lounge in Poynton on Friday, 3rd October. Dan Broad says: “Kazo’s songs stand by themselves. They’re dynamic and unequivocally unique. On top of that the lads have an infectious magnetism, with their strong bond of friendship playing out well on stage…. a band to watch out for.” ‘Cocktails & Canapés’ features five of Kazo’s tracks, all original and written by band members about situations that have influenced their own lives. ‘Easy Living’ marks their platinum track. Sam Keene’s drumming influences the atmosphere throughout….well known for fuelling audiences with his off-the-wall drumming, ‘Easy Living’ 10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
showcases Sam’s passion. Brought to life off stage by the music video, just finished by Independent Studios. ‘Easy Living’ is known as Kazo’s signature track. ‘Nothing’s Gonna Save You’ is a piece of real swagger in which Jack Henigan demonstrates the vocal confidence of a singer who can hold a crowd in the palm of his hand. His guitar work along with that of Jake Blythe has a dirty quality to it which adds an edge to the great production, while the rhythm is reminiscent mid 70’s Deep Purple. With Mike Silcock’s bass making its presence known, ‘Shoot From The Hip’ provides a edgier, sexy sound – the lyrics really speaking for themselves! Intriguingly Kazo’s tracks showcase the band’s talent almost individually at times, whilst clearly being a joint performance. ‘The Runner’ takes Jack’s voice to new heights….a song written from the heart about loss. Simply listening provokes an addiction to Kazo’s inimitable sound. As usual the band combine their style and sound and unique approach to their tracks…resulting in a musical escape.
Following Sam’s evocative intro on drums, followed hot on the heels by Jake’s guitar, Jack’s voice starts to guide you through the intense emotions evoked by ‘Safe’. Inspired by a tragic event that affected all four lads… Kazo takes the audience to moments of extreme emotion as Jake’s bass guitar takes on a life of its own. What the critics say….Briggy Smale introduced Kazo on main stage at Headlander 2014. A well-known name in the music industry after years presenting Top of the Pops in the 90s, Radio 1 and now as Head of Careers at Manchester’s BIMM music college, Briggy is well versed is spotting talent today that is tomorrow’s household name. “Kazo, tick all the boxes,” she says. “….lads want to be them and girls want to go out with them!” ‘Get Your Rock Out’ raved about Kazo after witnessing their stage take-over at Headlander 2014. “Kazo…. the band to follow….satiating the rocker’s appetite for something enjoyably gritty. As a live act these guys are wonderful to watch….this bodes extremely well for the full EP release later this year.” ‘Get Your Rock Out’, June 2014. What influences Kazo? Kazo have been playing together for four years. Hitting the music scene with an eclectic mix of rock & roll, soul and heartfelt sound, original lyrics written about everyday life events…brought to life with the unmatched acoustic Kazo brings. Influenced by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Led Zeppelin and Foo Foo Fighters, Kazo’s style is hard to box….they are quite simply Kazo.
Random acts….Supporting Kazo at their launch is Adam C, a rapper increasingly well-known on the Manchester music scene. Spotlighting Kazo’s ease on stage…Adam kicks in with random and improvised support …taking on the lyrics alongside Jack to provide a unique stage experience time after time. Turning heads………. on the music scene. Kazo are talked about by industry professionals including Noel Gallagher, the BBC and various indie music stations. Kazo, which is lead singer Jack Henigan, bassist Mike Silcock, drummer Sam Keene, and lead guitarist Jake Blythe, are set to headline monthly acts at The Acoustic Lounge, as well as a diary of performances leading up to Christmas within Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Yorkshire and radio play bookings up and down the country.
Contact Information:
Website: www.Kazoband.com Twitter: @KazoMusic Facebook: Kazo
Photo Credits: Kazo - All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 11
R
alf GUM’s music career dates back to 1990 when he started out as a DJ before establishing himself three years later as a full-on institution within the deep house scene, recognized in destinations throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East, America and Africa. Armed
with solid calibre and rare longevity, in delivering his latest ‘In My City’, Ralf was able to follow in the traditions of his two previous albums ‘Uniting Music’ and the South African gold-selling ‘Never Leaves You’. Besides his role as a formidable DJ/Producer, Ralf GUM owns the record label GOGO Music, and by extension is something of a music industry nurturer. GOGO, set up in 2001, and now hailed as one of Germany’s (if not one of world’s) most reputable soulful house music labels was pivotal for the international breakthrough of artists like Raw Artistic Soul and South Africa’s proudest house music export Black Coffee. In 2003 Ralf initiated the GOGO Music radio-show, at first as a monthly show transmitted on one internet-radio station. It rapidly became one of the most popular broadcasts within the house community and now airs weekly by more than 50 FM and internet-stations around the globe, with Ralf GUM, MAQman and Themba as residents. It was in this music development vein that Ralf found himself in 2009 (and two successive years after) when as part of South African tours he was invited to the Southern African Music Conference where he conducted various music production and business workshops. Those increasingly frequent visits to Mzansi led to special relationships and
ralf GUM
the blessed assurance which informed Ralf’s decision to make South Africa his new home in 2012. Relocating to the hot-bed of soulful
Website: www.GOGO-Music.net
house that is South Africa, Ralf Gum is perfectly positioned in one of
Twitter: @RalfGUM
the worlds most enthusiastic and inspiring music capitals. From where he makes soul music with among others, a genuine South African accent, which he circulates far and wide to the various destinations
Facebook: Ralf.GUM.GOGO Photo Credits: Carina Koch - All Rights Reserved
which he continues to play in.
exclusive interview
The
Cover Story
industry, as an artist and with my label, which will ensure some attention for BWD: Welcome! Please introduce us to Ralf GUM..? Ralf GUM started when a German teenager discovered that there was much more music than what German mainstream radio played and was fascinated by disco, soul, funk and early electronic music. I went from record collecting, to DJ-ing, to producing, to label-owning and still have the passion for what made me venture in all of those.
a debut album. BWD: Armed with a solid calibre and rare longevity, in delivering your latest single, ‘In My City’ how were you able to maintain your flow while following in the same ‘traditions’ of your two previous released albums, ‘Uniting Music’ and the South African Gold-Selling ‘Never Leaves You? Albums of mine always reflect my current state of mind. On ‘In My City’ I wanted
BWD: With a music career dating back to 1990, as a DJ/Producer, what inspired you to evolve into an ‘fully-loaded’ music artist, adding singer/songwriter under your belt; as well as, when were you motived to introduce ‘Ralf GUM’ in this whole new light?
some new influences and asked Phil Kullmann of Raw Artistic Soul to co-produce some of the album tracks. He is releasing on my label since a decade and we always spoke about working together on mutual music, too. After doing some joint remixes we knew that we have a similar approach to and ear for
Since I started producing, I always had the wish to do full length albums, as they al-
music. Subsequently we started producing some playbacks for the album. On
low much more artistic freedom, than just single releases or a remix, but was waiting
other tracks I worked again with Michael Ehnes, who already composed the
for the right time. In 2006 I felt that it was the right point in time and started work-
previous album “Never Leaves You” and much more with me. In general my work
ing on my first album ‘Uniting Music’, as I felt that I reached a position in the music
always stays in the tradition of Deep House and other musical genres, as I like
12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
real musical roots. Nevertheless, I steadily try to enhance the genre by working
BWD: Jumping straight in on the No.1 spot on iTunes South Africa on its day
with top artists & musicians and by adding my own vision.
of release and already being one of the most celebrated albums of 2014 in the motherland, Ralf GUM unleashes his third album, ‘In My City’, unto the
BWD: In 2001, you formed what is now known to be one of the most repu-
rest of the world on his acclaimed GOGO Music label. What was the inspira-
table soulful house music labels in South America. How did this transition
tion behind “In My City”, the Title, Track Selection, and what can the listeners
from DJ/Producer, Singer/Songwriter to now a label owner transpire? What
expect from your sound and lyrical storytelling?
inspired the label’s name, GOGO and what does it represent to you?
I desired an album title which expresses that I feel that I have “arrived”. Since my
My productions were signed to many different labels during the 90ies, but none
relocation from Germany to South Africa in 2012, I now feel that I spiritually and
of the labels offered me a real long-term perspective regarding my own develop-
musically live in a place which I really call home. I intentionally put the skyline
ment as an artist. The House Music industry is mostly focused on single releases,
of Johannesburg on the cover as a tribute, South Africa is the most vibrant dance
back then probably even more than nowadays. Thus a track is often treated more
nation I know globally. I am grateful that I am allowed to be a part of it, as I draw
important than the artist behind it. It was my wish to show a specific taste not
inspiration from it. My intention with the album is to keep up the amazing House
only with a release here and there, but to have something that does reflect it
Music movement in South Africa and eventually even enlarge it. It is already the
completely. Hence I decided to start the label and to work on a catalogue includ-
biggest consumer market for House Music in the world and to keep it going I
ing releases of like-minded artists. When I was founding GOGO Music I just was
tried to add a quality product, as much as I was capable of. Simultaneously as
looking for a memorable name and while pondering about it, a Goggomobile (a
an internationally known artist, I want to play my role in raising more awareness
small car which was build in the 60ies) passed outside my window. And snap,
about what’s happening in the motherland. There’s a lot of great music produced
there was the name.
in the motherland.
BWD: How did your label go from just being well-known as a music label into
BWD: And finally, while being perfectly positioned in one of the worlds most
a monthly show that transmitted on ‘one’ internet-radio station to rapidly be-
enthusiastic and inspiring music capitals; what can we look forward to, now
coming one of the most popular broadcasts; now successfully airing weekly
that we are nearing a New Year? What’s next for Ralf GUM?
by more than 50 FM- and internet-stations around the globe? Are there other
I always prefer to fully concentrate on a current project and usually don’t plan
artist’s under your belt, representing your music label?
way ahead. Completing ‘In My City’ took almost two years and I am now hungry
The GOGO Music radioshow was started in 2003 complementary to the label. It
to play as a DJ more again. So the next month people can see me touring all over.
began as a monthly mix by me transmitted by one internet-radio in Germany. I just played music I liked without considering other aspects. Soon more stations
Next to it, I want to enjoy the summer in beautiful South Africa a bit, too. There
approached GOGO and asked about the possibility to broadcast the show, too. As
are still a lot of places to explore and maybe I will manage to find a bit of time
the number of radio-stations grew, the popularity of it did. From 2005 onwards
to travel with my family. However, as I know myself very well, you’ll probably find
we changed to a weekly broadcast which eventually became one of the most
me in a studio working on some new beats very soon again. It’s simply a calling
popular shows in the house community and beyond. To date we’re aired in various
I can’t escape from.
countries on 4 continents and present what we think is beyond the finest soulful and deep house music. Our format is a pure 1 hour DJ set, which is mixed by
Ralf Gum ‘In My City’ Album is out now on GOGO Music.
MAQman, Themba, myself and other GOGO Music artists in rotation.
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 13
5 ebola prevention tips The Ebola virus is here, and the threat of an epidemic is real. There are some basic premises for any infectious disease, but for Ebola with no definitive therapy available and a 50-90% mortality, we had better get serious! Since the virus has no definitive vaccine (prevention) or treatment, the urgency is clear. The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (over 800 members) did a study in Honolulu 30 years ago and reported that if the Ebola virus became aerosolized (spread by water droplets), the costs alone would spin the whole plague out of control. We do know that it can be spread by contact with anything that comes in contact even with water droplets, including dogs, which are called fomites. For the American public facing this reality, it becomes very scary and we need to know what to do to protect ourselves and avoid panic. Now that Ebola is here in Dallas, what can we do to stop this virus from spreading?
14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
straight talk The government and the CDC need to stop lying and dismiss any thoughts of political correctness and playing down the seriousness. I watched the head of the CDC say, “Wash your hands” when someone asked him what we could do to protect ourselves. That answer was insulting and only adds to the fury and disbelief of the general public. These officials need to be honest, and give us the real answers.
1.
Get with it The government needs to impose travel bands from endemic areas, or quarantine anyone with contact of the virus with serious intent. Four people left the quarantined area in Dallas because they were not monitored further potentially spreading the virus needed. We should consider using Police services and the National Guard like they did in the movie “Contagion” (Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow).
2.
CLOSE BORDERS Close all borders because it won’t take long before infected people around the world realize that they can get into this country here and have access to the best medical care free with you, of course, paying the bill. These open borders are a monumental invitation don’t you think?
3.
local doctor education Provide education on the virus in all communities, and especially for medical staff, from local experts that are not from the government. Knowledge is the best way to avoid a panic, but from trustworthy sources, so doctors who live with you are good messengers. You can believe them.
4.
greater good. A few years ago, I debated the Head of the School of Public Health at Harvard, and after thirty minutes of bantering back and forth, I said “It surprises me that a PUBLIC HEALTH expert is only interested in the individual rights instead of the general public! We were debating HIV virus and how best to stop its spread. This is much worse! Get educated on Ebola
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
take extra precautions
While mosquitoes have not been proven to carry Ebola, it never hurts to take extra precautions. Until we know more, you probably want to avoid nighttime activities where mosquitoes live and breed, and use mosquito sprays like DEET for ball fields, grass and woods. Mosquitoes have been avoided by our Ebola experts with verbiage like, “not reported yet.....”, but when healthcare workers in Africa who are fully protected with gowns, masks and goggles become infected, it raises that potential, and of course if true, then we have another whole consideration.
5.
Lastly, understanding viral behavior is an important ingredient especially when it changes environment from a tropical one to a ³temperate one”, which includes mutations. It’s important that we logically foretell them to hopefully avoid a further disaster, and this could be one of them. Besides there is much about this virus that is largely unexplained.
Website: www.yourgoodhealthfl.com/dr-david-vastola/ Twitter: @DrDavidVastola Facebook: DavidlVastola
With a potential plague in our midst, we need to get serious, stop being politically correct and think of the
Photo Credits: Dr. David L Vastola - All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 15
Simple Sheets T he Dirty Truth About College
College students only change their sheets 3x per year.
You might think they’re just lazy, but in a dorm room, the bed’s height and position along a wall make changing the fitted sheet virtually impossible. Rather than enduring a strenuous balancing act to change their sheets, students sleep on filthy sheets for months on end. This is both gross and unhygienic, as dirty sheets are incubators for dust mites, bed bugs, and a host of allergy inducing particles. Meet Simple Sheets - an innovative product that makes changing the bed a breeze. Simple Sheets feature a uniquely designed, two-piece fitted sheet, which includes a base fitted sheet and a Strip Sheet. The Strip Sheet is connected to the base fitted sheet by Velcro and is easily removed for washing. Each set also includes a convenient side pocket - perfect for storing a cell phone or remote at arms’ reach. Simple Sheets make changing the bed hassle-free, saving college students valuable time and giving their mothers peace of mind. Website: www.simple-sheets.com Twitter: @SimpleSheets Facebook: SimpleSheets Instagram: SimpleSheets Credits: Simple Sheets - All Rights Reserved
16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
sincere grant
R&B Singer Sincere Grant is from Tulsa, OK where he spent the first
Sincere is also reading/casting for a couple of Indie movie roles.
18 years of his life growing up and singing at North Peoria Church of Christ.
Sincere’s New Singles titled, “Red Carpet Ready” and “Looking Like A Model” have already been released. Sincerely Yours (The Remix) is now
Sincere Grant attended Booker T. Washington High School where he
also available at all Major Online Retail Outlets! (ITunes, Amazon, etc).
participated in the T-Connection Marching Band’s drum line.
Two videos are available on YouTube as well.
Grant is a singer/songwriter that can do song arrangements, melody compositions, vocal delivery, dancing and entertaining. Sincere began songwriting and recording in 2003; while attending college in Okmulgee, OK. In order to be with family, Sincere Grant had moved to Muskogee, OK in March of 2004. By December 2006, Sincere had begun writing and recording. Sincere has opened for recording artists Kindred (The Family Soul), Nappy Roots, Bobby Valentino, Yo Gotti and Bow Wow, just to name a few. Grant is an artist with a noticeable passion for music so he is very open to working with other artists that are just as passionate with their music as he is.
Contact Information Instagram: SincereGrantIG Twitter: @SincereGrant Facebook: SincereGrant YouTube: SincereGrant
Grant showcased his talent at the 2009 & 2010 Muskogee Summer Jam and also has a “Blockumentary” out on www.rmimusicgroup.com.
Credits: Sincere Grant - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 17
A
AARON STACCATO aron Staccato (formerly known as Aftashock) is a
Parr gave Staccato a shout out on his morning show in June 2012,
musically inclined individual that has a great ear,
which was heard everywhere.
hand, and foot for music. Since 2004 Aaron has released over 25 mixtapes and viral/street albums.
Aaron Staccato also has co-hosted the television show NXS TV on
Aaron’s first release on iTunes was “Really out the
channel 25, now 19.2 Bounce TV in Cincinnati, Ohio where he got
door” in 2011 and at the end of 2012- early 2013 he released “Best
to interview the stars and bring hip hop news to over 1.5 million
thang” on iTunes and 29 other digital retailers.
households in the Tri State area. Staccato has a fanbase that crosses into 82 countries; his YouTube videos having grown to over 50,000
Aaron Staccato unleashed his first installment of his Staccato Nation
unique views and you can see his complete online presence on
Mixtape Series with 20 tracks that will paint a big picture and
ItsMyUrls.com/aaronstaccato. Aaron released over 10 music videos
inspire people. With bangers like “We Can Hold It Down”, “Visual”,
from 2006 to the 2014 and now after 3 years of college and hun-
“There Go My Girl Girl” and “Best
dreds of studio sessions in between,
Thang” remix, Staccato has made
Aaron Staccato is gearing up to pro-
sure you will be able to let the
mote his new album/dvd in the spring
whole tape play. Production by
and summer of 2015. Also, be on the
@TheRealFamo @FrostBeats @
look out for another massive exclusive
StreetAnthems and more Follow
mixtape of appearances and releases
@AaronStaccato on Twitter and
throughout the year.
Instagram. Staccato Nation 2 Coming Spring 2015.
Be sure to pay attention to Aaron Staccato because he is working hard
Aaron is in his junior year at the
daily and will be collaborating with his
University of Cincinnati with one
family Erica P., Dubb Santora, E Will, and
Associate’s Degree already under
many more. The #StaccatoNation mix-
his belt. Aaron has opened for
tape is now available on LiveMixtapes.
major artists like 8Ball & MJG,
com, DatPiff.com & SoundCloud. Aaron
Jahiem, 112, Montell Jordan, DJ
Staccato singles are also on iTunes,
Clue, DJ Hi Tek, Pru,
Google Play, and AmazonMp3, as well
Ram-Z and more. Aaron shocked
as Beats Music.
the airwaves on his hometown hip hop/r&b radio station getting
CONTACT INFORMATION
heavy rotation on remixes, intros, and record spins, and had the longest running intro in the region
Instagram: AaronStaccato
on the Jade West Show. Aaron got a chance to consult with Program
Twitter: @AaronStaccato
Director/Radio Personality Hurricane Dave as a street team intern, and got to network and meet people in the music industry. Russ 18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
Facebook: AaronStaccato Credits: Aaron Staccato - All Rights Reserved
all hands on deck DJ SPOTLIGHT
UNCLE MURDA INTERVIEW
MONTHLY FEATURE Peace and Greetings. Many of you may have read my inaugural article in BWD Magazine which was an interview with 90’s platinum selling artist Mr. Cheeks of the Lost Boyz. Thank you. I would like to take a minute to introduce myself to both the readers and the BWD Magazine family.
unique to him alone. He also spoke on some issues that are affecting
I am DJ Sincere, founder of Drtybsmnt Multimedia. Over the years I have been involved in the entertainment industry, from DJ and Producer to On-Air Personality and Writer. I bring all of my experiences and perspectives to the analysis that I will strive to bring to you in each article. We do this with the independent artist particularly in mind. There will be articles relating to artist development and different ideas, as well as, techniques that may be utilized by those looking to gain a foothold in the music business. Some may include various personalities outside of music that may be known to you or some that we feel are deserving of attention. Each article or interview that you read we hope that you will find informative and insightful, as well as entertaining.
We definitely appreciate you coming on Drtybsmnt Radio. We got
the streets and thus the families. Enjoy !
exclusive interview Uncle Murda in the building. What’s popping? Mr. East New York. Thanks for having me. You already know East New York GMG. Yes sir. That’s what it do. Let’s get up to speed right quick, let everybody know what’s going on in the world of Uncle Murda. Right now I got the record Wuu Wuu with Rocko, produced by Jalil Beats. You know, we got the video for that, so I’d go check that out on the social sites. I just put out a new record featuring Maino, Troy Ave, Tank, Raekwon, produced by Jerry Wonder. We got the mixtape dropped on Valentine’s Day. It’s Uncle Murda and GMG presenting “Aint Nothing Sweet”. Y’all going to hear a lot of my boys on there. We just out here moving, we working. Alright, that’s what it is. Definitely alot of heavy hitters, you know,
I am grateful for the chance to be included as a contributing writer to BWD Magazine and wish to personally thank Ms.V for this opportunity. Stay tuned.
on them tracks. That wuu wuu joint is real crazy. First time I played that, I gotta tell you, my dude, I was cracking up off that joint. I was like this dude is crazy on that, where did that whole concept even come from? Me smoking a little bit and watching some Martin re-runs. [laughter]
In the building on this occasion with Brooklyn’s own Uncle Murda, live
And then I put my little swing on it from a hood perspective, but I still
on Drtybsmnt Radio with DJ Sincere and Mr. Raaw for this interview.
made it a little funny and catchy.
The always straight forward and thus controversial artist brought us up to speed on his latest goings on and musical endeavors in a style
(Continued On Page 20) Credits: DJ SINCERE for DRTBSMNT MULTIMEDIA - All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 19
UNCLE MURDA INTERVIEW (Continued)
How’d the whole situation with Rocko come together, how did that hap-
need to start hearing real rap. I feel like it’s just a lot of bubblegum that you
pen?
hear on the radio or them saying stuff that’s not really making no sense. It’s
Oh, Rocko, that’s my boy, I ran into him, we just caught a good vibe, and ever
not motivating nobody to do nothing really but, you know, maybe just go
since then we’ve just been in contact, and it was like, Yo, homie, I got a record
to the club and just twerk. Music used to give you a little message. It was
that I want you on, and he went and did it in the studio when he came out
something real. Music you could relate to the struggle, things of that nature.
here in New York.. Shout out to Rocko and the whole A1 family. Who do you be checking for, man? Who do you listen to? You’ve maintained a strong career with a real good, strong presence from
Just my own right now, man, and really my crew and what we doing right
the time you dropped. When you first dropped that joint Bullet Bullet
now. I dig French Montana. I like what Meek Millz be doing for the streets, so
you managed to be an independent artist, but, with a high visibility like a
there’s a few people but for the most part I be on my own s***, man, and my
major artist. How did you work that angle and what kind of advice would
crew and what we about to do, ‘cause I’m about to motivate others.
you give artists for trying to, make those kind of moves, but at the same time maintain your independence?
Alright, Uncle Murda about to set it off real crazy. New York City like you
I think you just gotta stick to your guns, man, and be yourself when it comes
ain’t never seen.
to making the music. Don’t try to be nobody else or just ride with this par-
The bad guy is back, we need a bad guy on the forefront. Everybody is too
ticular wave because it sounds like it’s in right now. Just be yourself, and
happy go lucky, man. Yeah, I was getting ready to say everybody wanna be
a person like me, I don’t
a happy jack, right, everybody
bite my tongue, so I’m not
a happy jack nowadays, just
scared to say anything, and
skipping along, right? That’s
I speak what’s on my mind,
crazy. No more.
and also, you got to invest in yourself in this busi-
No more man. Uncle Murda
ness too, because like you
gonna shut it down. Let
said, might not have that
everybody know where they
major support like that. I
can follow you at.
was lucky to get a couple
You
of major deals, but I still
Twitter, Instagram, that’s @
never got the support from
UncleMurda, and I’m on my
a major that I really need-
Facebook now, The Real Uncle
ed, so I always had to take
Murda 1 on Facebook. Check
can
follow
me
on
on a lot of things by myself or with my team, and we know once we get to
the Mixtape GMG “Ain’t Nothing Sweet”. Find it on all the social sites, and
a certain point where they can’t tell us nothing and they got to give us the
yeah, we out here moving, man.
money, we know it’s on. I swear to God, death to all the weird stuff going on, dudes pants going to loosen up, and the only persons dressed in dresses is
Yeah, that’s what it is. Once again, thank you so much, Uncle Murda, com-
females. You understand what I’m saying?
ing through, hanging out with us in the Drtybsmnt, definitely come back through and keep us abreast of everything that you’ve got going on.
Yes sir. Alright, that’s what it is. We need some more of that. We need to
You already know, man, free all my bruhs: Rha Diggs, Debo Brown, my little
turn the tide on that. I mean, the children is really being overwhelmed.
brother Q.. I’m out of here. One, GMG.
Yeah, I’m not here to be on any negativity, but there’s got to be a balance.
Contact Information:
These little kids, especially these boys, they’ve got to know they nuts gotta breathe. They don’t need to be wearing them tight jeans like that, and they
Twitter: @Frtybsmnt
definitely don’t need to be wearing dresses. Dresses is for the ladies that you
Facebook (MultiMedia) /Drtybsmnt
might take to the prom. Something like that is not for the man. You need to start hearing the messages in rap also, you need to start hearing stories. You
20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
Credits: DJ SINCERE for DRTBSMNT MULTIMEDIA - All Rights Reserved
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 • 21
U
UZO aka UZO O’achi zoma Peters-Onyedinachi, a soul-stirring, inspirational recording Artist, Speaker, and Songwriter are just a few adjectives to describe the Nigerian gospel singer. Uzo is always ready to sing to God.
Born and raised in Lagos Nigeria where she attended her Primary and Secondary education, the Delta state native started expressing her love for gospel music at the tender age of 5 when she had her first public performance. Realizing the gifts God had given her, she began to harness it and joined Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church Choir in 1990. She later became a member of a female group Chosen Generation and got invitations to minister at various Christian gatherings. Her desire for gospel music has always kept her on stage where she just wants to bask in the ambience of her first love; Music. Her undeniable thirst for music ministration eventually 22 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
gave birth to this new chapter of her life; to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ through her songs. The University of Abertay Dundee (UK) Alumni graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Administration Management. She is also a trained Paralegal and a Certified Project Management Analyst. Professionally, she works for an IT firm in Lagos. She loves to read and hopes to be a Researcher someday. As a gospel performer, the internationally acclaimed worship leader has led people to the mountain top of praise in mega churches such as Christian Gospel Church Lagos, RCCG Open Heavens Dundee Scotland, and RCCG Jesus Embassy Lagos to name a few. She has also been invited to minister at various events and concerts. She looks forward to sharing the stage with the likes of Cece Winans, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McCluckin, Israel Houghton, and other renowned artists.
As a Songwriter and Vocalist, Uzo has written many great songs and is currently working on her Debut Album “Worship Just As You Are”. Her inspirational and uplifting style of music does not only attract people who are drawn by a unique sound which combines Gospel and Rock with a touch of Contemporary beat, but also expresses lyrics that are designed to inspire hope and build up faith in people. Her debut single “I LIFT MY HANDS” which has gained a lot of fans for the Songbird was released in July 2014. The track hit No.1 on the ReverbNation Top 10 Chart for Christian Rock music in the first week it was released, and is currently making waves on various radio stations. I Lift My Hands is now available worldwide through all major online digital music retailers and music streaming services such as CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon, Google Play etc. Uzo’s vision is to draw as many souls as possible to the love of Jesus Christ through her songs. She is due to drop another single from her forthcoming album soon. INFLUENCES – The Holy Spirit, Open Heavens Dundee, Cece Winans, Yolanda Adams, Darlene Zschech.
Contact Information:
Twitter: @UzoOachi Facebook: /pages/Uzo-Oachi/697171016985536 Instagram: Uzo.Oachi Website: www.reverbnation.com/uzo7 Email: uzooachi@gmail.com
Credits: Uzo - All Rights Reserved
BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 23
I
VIM & VIGR
f you are searching for a simple commitment this New Year, look no further than VIM & VIGR’s innovative and stylish compression socks.
throughout the day, during a workout, and after to aid with muscle recovery.
You are guaranteed to look and feel better in 2015! This year upgrade your socks with VIM & VIGR’s high-functioning socks to help energize your legs, prevent swelling and blood clots, alleviate achiness, and prevent and reduce spider and varicose veins.
Getting healthy doesn’t have to be hard or painful, VIM & VIGR makes getting on track easy and fun – with each step.
These knee-high compression socks are perfect for wearing
Website: www.vimvigr.com Twitter: @VIMVIGR Facebook: VIMVIGR
Credits: VIM/VIGR - All Rights Reserved 24 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
VIM & VIGR’s compression socks utilize an advanced Gradient Pressure™ knitting technology and 400 needle count in the nylon socks for footwear that helps your health without hindering your style.
Candyman Vending Service Candyman Vending brings a unique new way of advertising for music fans and artists. Owner Andre Bramwell Creates the Worlds first Hip Hop and Music Artist Vending Network. Candyman Vending Service based out of Houston, TX is pleased to offer custom vending machines to help Hip-Hop artists promote their brand and boost their image in the industry. Joining with Riff Raff, Krayzie Bone and others, Rap and Hip-Hop artists have now found an engaging and innovative vehicle to market their talents and become known in their own industry. Candyman Vending Service has actually positioned itself as a great resource for reliable and high-impact custom vending machines that will draw customers and expand into those untapped markets, without making large investments. Promoting their talents and building brand awareness have been among the many issues of many Hip-Hop and Rap artists. They often struggle to get their message across their clients. Now, Candyman Vending Service has found an innovative solution to this problem. They created machines that will attract customers, thereby helping their clients extend their target reach. This is the very first Hip-Hop or music vending network in the world that will give all artists a whole new way of promoting themselves and making extra money. “The custom vending machines that are placed at businesses will enable the artists to obtain a commission from the machines and an additional promotion of the brand, so it is definitely a win-win situation,” Andre Bramwell said. “By obtaining custom vending machines, artists will have an opportunity to reach their targeted customers and promote their brand in an effective and cost efficient manner.”
The company is operating all of its vending machines in the Houston/Austin market and the custom machines will be available nationwide. With the use of the vending machines, artists can take full advantage of various options. All machines will offer advertising to their fans, businesses and targeted customers by either a 46” inch touchscreen vending machine or the customized ATM machines. They can now earn an remarkable amount of money without making large investments. The vending machines are available for sale to the general public as well that will give HipHop artists an innovative venue for income and publicity. The custom vending machines are of great quality and are equipped with an interactive touchscreen and LCD screen. The pictures of the artist will appear on the digital screen, which will give all artists instant promotion. With these new marketing platforms, the options are almost limitless. Candyman Vending is a comprehensive management service, specializing in installing vending machines and keeping them fully stocked with the inventory their client wants. The company is also providing some of the most popular vending machines in the industry.
Website: www.candymanvendingservice.com Twitter: @CandymanVending Email: andre@candymanvendingservice.com Credits: Candyman Vending Service - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 25
C
l phonix
oming from an unconventional musical background L Phonix has been surrounded by creative influences from an early age.
Phonix’s mother is a reggae star Aisha, who was part of the ARIWA Sounds Label run by dub legend Mad Professor. His father also a great reggae musician, producer and founder of Green Beat Music, ‘Dubz’. Meanwhile his uncle, UK’s No. 1 steel band soloist, Mighty Jamma, so inspiration was there from an early age.
While receiving great support on some of the UK’s best stations he has had featured guest mixes on the likes of Kiss FM, BBC Radio Xtra, and Sub FM, as well as, support from established DJ’s likes Grant Nelson, Todd Edwards, Wide Boys, DJ pioneer, DJ target, Dream Team, Ras Kwame to name a few. L Phonix continues to take his unique brand of music forward with more releases along with up and coming collaborations, including his latest release ‘Mary Jane’ with Producer ‘Yllavation’ featuring the vocal talents of the UK’s very own Colin Mills.
L Phonix started Dj’ing at various spots around England during the late 90’s. He became more involved with Dj’ing and the music industry during the early Millennium. The next natural evolution for L Phonix was channeling his attention towards the production side of the industry. He built himself a base to produce and play his own tracks. The DJ aspect was then put on hold for him to develop his production skills further by releasing material of his own. Contact Information:
A progressional spell of original tracks and remixes followed under various labels and a few artist aliases. Teaming up with another Producer called ‘Yllavation’ who collectively have went on to produce a whole new batch of fresh original music and remixes, including tracks with other artists such as Slarta John, Inaya Day, Masquerade, Calvin Lynch and many more. 26 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com
Website: www.l-phonix.com Twitter: @L_phonix
Facebook: L.phonix Instagram: L_phonix Photo Credits - Tim Herbert Photography - All Rights Reserved