BWD Magazine - September 2013 by BWD Magazine

Worldwide Indie Music, Lifestyles, Entertainment Magazine

EL-JAY TRADEMARK OF SKILLS

BAYSIDE CENTER

SEPTEMBER 2013

MASTERS OF CEREMONY AN UNCOMPROMISING

“A Holistic Approach To Your Inner Beauty.”

3C CREATIVE CHARISMATIC COMMANDING

A DECADES WORTH OF EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE

STYLE

FEATURES 04 Masters of Ceremony Devotion, Motivation, and Uncompromising

08 Dead Celebrity Status All Things Socially Conscious

10 Martyr De Mona Taking Nothing for Granted

14 Young Goldie The Next Worldwide Household Name

16 James Hodcroft The New Millennium

18 The Roadhouse Live Music Venue

20 IBEE Don’t Walk Away

22 3C The Foundations of Inspiration

24 Dope Boy Recordz Started From Tha’ Bottom

COVER STORY 12 EL-JAY An Trademark of Skills

LIFESTYLE 06 5 Tips for Producing Your Best Work Your Best Work, EVERY Time

26 Bayside Center A Holistic Approach To Your Inner Beauty

ENTERTAINMENT 28 BWD Records (Sponsor) The Independent Music Label of the South

2 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

FROM THE EDITOR

LAST ISSUE

Having continuously been recognized throughout the music world as a vast movement with an undeniable force we at BWD Radio are now bringing you the best music and individuals within their field in a more easily digestible format; with a dedicated online magazine packed to the rafters with news, reviews, features and phenomenal artists from across the globe. Synonymous with breaking new ground and talent, our aim isn’t to deliver you an aggregator of articles; more like, the BWD Bible of breaking talent and breath taking bands turning heads and volume dials up to eleven. In each breaking issue we reveal the winners of the BWD Radio’s Indie Music Featured Artist Competition, a monthly competition where we invite you to Get On The ‘Visual’ Playlist for your chance to become one of the featured BWD Competition Winners. The winners are awarded the opportunity of talent exposure across the globe and throughout the world as part of our aim to prove a good tune isn’t limited to whatever celebrity judge endorsed single is currently riding high in the iTunes download chart.

Editor In Chief Veralyn Keach, Veralyn.Keach@bwdmagazine.com

In each issue, we also bring you the newest faces in the world of modeling to watch out for in store windows, on the billboards, and in the high-street, as well as on the catwalks

Associate Editor

of Paris and Milan.

Robert Baker, Robert.Baker@bwdmagazine.com

Though that may be enough to fill the covers of most magazines, we’ll be taking things

Lead Contributing Writer

even further with exclusive ‘first-looks’ at the best in indie talent, our unique position within the world of media affording us the opportunity to bring you the next big hitters before anyone else and by combining the two enormous forces--presences of BWD Radio and BWD Magazine into one with the newly launched new BWD website there is twice the promotion to deliver double the impact and even more worldwide exposure to its featured artists. All the freshest new faces and hottest new talent in one magazine, BWD Magazine in conjunction with BWD Radio is committed to setting the standard of what you deserve from a

Robert Baker, Robert.Baker@bwdmagazine.com

Contributing Writer Veralyn Keach, Veralyn.Keach@bwdmagazine.com

Art Director Veralyn Keach, Veralyn.Keach@bwdmagazine.com

magazine with constant promotion through the BWD network of contacts and promoters.

Graphic Artist

Did someone say BWD Promotions? The BWD Triple Threat Trio!

Veralyn Keach, Veralyn.Keach@bwdmagazine.com

BWD MAGAZINE’S SERVICES: Being in such a unique position affords us the ability to offer

Circulation Officer(s)

our services at ‘considerably less’ than most others, our network allowing us to expose

Veralyn Keach/Robert Baker @bwdmagazine.com

your talent in all the right places without needless expense or additional ‘secret costs’ less scrupulous companies fill their small print and help fill their bank balances with. Covering all aspects of media promotion (from social media sites through to music video promotion) we are able to offer the best when it comes to brand awareness and public recognition of your name or product, without compromising either your impact or finances. For price and space availability inquiries, please contact us via the contact details to the right where we can discuss your specific requirements to ensure maximum exposure.

BWD MAGAZINE: Where YOU go to get as much VARIETY in music, news, sports, entertainment and lifestyles!! MORE THAN JUST MUSIC.

Sales Officer(s) Veralyn Keach/Robert Baker @bwdmagazine.com

BWDMAGAZINE.COM BWDRADIO.COM FACEBOOK.COM/BWDMAGAZINE TWITTER.COM/BWDMAGAZINE FACEBOOK.COM/BWDRADIO TWITTER.COM/BWDRADIO_ TWITTER.COM/BWDPROMOTIONS BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 3

MASTERS OF CEREMONY We will forever continue to deliver music that fuels the soul.”

asters of Ceremony are a Calgary, Alberta Rap group who have more than earned the honorific their name bestows. With an uncompromising style that has garnered the duo both praise and accolade whenever they combine their minds, MOC are a group destined to be leaders in the phalanx of like-minded artists.

Comprising of the artist Abstrakt and grand master Grenade Masters Of Ceremony have taken the pairs almost symbiotic style of swaggering assurance and straight-up sincerity directly to the genre’s core, delivering powerfully insightful lyrics and lyricism with the more free-flowing delivery of a mind barely able to contain the enclave of thoughts and emotions being fired through the speakers and into the skies. The release of the duo’s first single release Mixdown in 2008 saw Abstrakt and Grenade launch themselves into the spotlight as Raw Illest, the track produced by Fernando Lujan and showcasing them as one of the most exciting new sounds to emerge. Public acclaim and reaction to the single saw the trio working on further releases together, creating a force bound by a passion for music and the creation of something that not only spoke to their audience in a way that was as honest as it was real, but in the voice of a group determined to prove theirs was a voice speaking of experience and a view worth listening to.

4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

After tons of devotion, motivation and hard work our project has started surfacing. “

WITH AN UNCOMPROMISING STYLE, GARNERING PRAISE AND ACCOLADE Honing their craft on the local thriving scene Raw Illest soon got

salute you and thank you for all the support. We will forever continue

the invitation to open for Sean Kingston in October of 2009, this

to deliver music that fuels the soul. ‘

vote of musical critical affirmation seeing Raw Illest becoming the most prominent performers on the circuit.

Without equals to compare and none more deserving of the name, Masters Of Ceremony aren’t just leading the charge of change the

Further invitations were soon heading the groups way, chief

industry is crying out for; they are the change and, indeed, the

amongst which included the opportunity to open for the legends

Masters.

of hip-hop themselves De La Soul at a performance that would see the group appearing at the world famous Olympic Plaza of Calgary.

Contact Information: Website: www.mastersofceremony.ca

Circumstances conspired and shortly thereafter the group disband-

Twitter: @moc_music

ed and the two parted ways, a move to Vancouver seeing Abstrakt

Facebook: mastersofceremony

opening to packed crowds for Royce Da 5’9, Naughty by Nature, as

well as headliners Evil Ebenezer and Scale Breakers throughout the ‘Lower Mainland High Heat Tour.’ Destiny and demanding fans, however, will not be denied; reforming under the MOC moniker and bringing the individual experiences and lessons learned from their solo works apart, Abstrakt and Grenade are writing the next lines in rap music’s ever eloquent evolution. ‘After tons of devotion, motivation and hard work our project has started surfacing,’ says the group. ‘To our fans and all those reading we

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 5

FIVE TIPS FOR PRODUCING YOUR BEST WORK EVERY TIME DIVIDE YOUR TRACK, MULTIPLY YOUR PRODUCIVITY

Sometimes it can be an effort to see the wood for

Once the track is laid down as a whole piece go back and

divide it into sections – bridge, verse, chorus, etc… - and work on one section at a time. No matter how well you may think you know it by breaking up your track into smaller, manageable chunks will force

the trees when trying to create a song or piece of music; it can be too easy to get lost in the minu-

you to hear it in a completely new way. It may sound so familiar to your ears to begin with, but as you start to hear just the one part at a time you’ll find yourself looking at

tiae of detail, or not see a glaring flaw from spend-

the various parts within each section with a more considered air; it will really drive

ing too long on the wrong part of the track.

your attention into the corners of the track and send you exploring the edges and seeing if the sounds sit right within the track, deliver the impact you intend. What you’re looking for is a consistency throughout, a level of personal satisfaction

Occasionally a mistake or omission won’t make

within what you are hearing that gets as close to the noise you hear in your mind as

itself known until long into production, and with

humanly possible. Equalizers will drop or raise various levels to bring up or flatten

each re-work or new take money, time, and patience are spent in the rush to iron out perceived

down the richness of sounds at a very basic and simple to understand level. For those wishing to delve a little deeper, music programs abound aplenty for the discerning DJ, offering more choice of noises and layers of indulgences with each new release on

flaws – which, if one isn’t careful, can lead to yet

the market. So it is with a timely intervention we draw your attention to the second

more missteps and mistakes and frustrated cre-

Tip of our five…

ative dead-ends. So before your masterpiece ends up becoming a disaster piece take a moment to consider the following 5 Tips for Producing Your Best Work EVERY Time…

6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

SOMETIMES LESS IS MORE

With ever more powerful personal computers and even more flexible music programs it can seem like you’re the kid in the musical candy store; a million separate layers and a billion ways to influence the sound of each and every note can leave you almost drowning in an embarrassment of riches choice-wise.

Keep your focus on what you are hoping to achieve with the individual part

If you’re still a paper and pencil type then a good quality HB and a stack of

you are working on, but always with an ear to the over-all sound. A great

Xerox’s finest blank A4 and some carbon paper and you’re all good to go

man once wrote; with great power comes great responsibility. Remember;

– maybe a folder to keep things tidy and safe, even some plastic wallets if

you won’t necessarily need every single option the program offers on every

you’re prone to spilling stuff.

single bar of the track.

If you’re composing on a computer, on the other hand, then the advice is

Focus on how the part you are working on fits with the rest of the track,

familiar yet so easy to forget;

listening to how it impacts the sound. Each time you make even the smallest

•

alteration – changing the levels, more reverb, less echo – you change the

luxury of listening and comparing each one before dismissing it.

overall track, so bear this in mind when getting stuck into polishing up the

•

rough edges or becoming too honed in on a troublesome part.

then make a second save to use as the basis for making all the alterations

If you can’t make the song work as is try reducing the number of parts/

Save Regularly – every change if need be, so you at least have the Back-Up – again, make a master save of the overall composition,

and indulging those ‘musicians itch’ moments during production.

layers you are using. Doing this allows the song room to breathe aurally, and

•

can make it easier to hear where anything feels missing or if improvements

a blank CD. Anything that will hold and keep that precious information safe

can be made and indeed even if they are needed. Don’t let yourself get lost

should the worse happen and you lose all your hard work will be the smart-

in the maze of endless possibilities, especially if you don’t…

est move you’ve ever made should the time come when it is needed.

LET SOMEONE ELSE HEAR IT

Musicians can be quite precious with their work, become almost resistive to allowing another

Back-Up Your Back-Up – put it on an external drive, a USB stick or

Remember; it is better to have and not need, than to need and not have.

LISTEN TO TRACK ON DIFFERENT DEVICES

ear near it until perceived perfection has been thoroughly attained and it is unveiled for their audience’s avid consumption. Every successful musician has a producer sitting

somewhere in the background offering advice, chipping in with suggestions, and generally offering a guiding hand when needed to the artist standing behind the mic/mixing desk. A parent or close family member may be a poor choice for an ear to critique an unfinished work, and the potential for them to blow false wind into

With even toasters seemingly coming with a USB input and an mp3 player there’s any number of devices capable of playing sound. With even more options available for those in the market for a new pair of headphones, the choice of how the track’s listened to is also as broad.

Find as many of these device/audio configurations as you can and see how they make your track sound.

your sails over how every note is an angelic chime and similar may cast doubt over their words, potentially compromising the track.

Different devices project the sound at different levels, and different encod-

Forums will allow you to find fellow musicians of a similar genre whose

ing of the tracks format can mean the difference between hearing the track

opinion won’t carry a fraternal weight, can be truly impartial; they afford you

with some of the finer detail lost and hearing it as it’s meant to be heard. Of

a much better chance of figuring out the bits that don’t seem to work, and

course, getting a completely universal sound over all possible audio output

more often than not will be a source of knowledge regarding which way to

options is a Promethean task, but different mixes with subtlety different lev-

turn and what you should be looking to find.

els can bring a more appealing compromise in the sound to you as an artist.

Forums are a priceless resource for musicians, be they a dub-step supremo

Don’t misunderstand; ‘compromise’ does not mean adulterating your sound

or a bedroom emo, and having a friendly third party with no personal invest-

and reducing the track to less than what you consider acceptable. It simply

ment in your work means more likelihood of getting an honest response

means being aware that not every time your track is heard it will be listened

- saving yourself from hours of hard work and toil or potential musical

to on the same headphones or speakers that you yourself use, so keep focus

embarrassment.

on how the overall track sounds by transferring the mix onto whatever device you have at hand, give it a listen, and see what stands out and what doesn’t.

SAVE AND BACK-UP YOUR BACK-UP

So many musicians spend a small fortune on the tools they need to compose their track, but surprisingly few artists remember that not everyone will own a pair of Bose and a stereo that goes up to eleven.

Did you ever hear about that musician who

Perhaps the most satisfying part of being a musician or artist is the free-

became rich and famous despite having lost the

dom of expression afforded to those who take up the mantle of composer;

only copy of the best song they or anyone else

there are no right or wrong ways of creating a song, and no hard-and-fast

had ever written?

rules of what is or is not music. The scope is endless and the landscapes bright, so now armed with the above advice you should have little trouble

No; me neither.

carving your own niche from the great Wall of Sound.

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 7

DEAD CELEBRITY STATUS

ith their latest album The Throwaway Kids lined up and

We are the overlooked, the forgotten, the misunderstood and the neglected. We

ready to turn the tides of the music scene into a turbulent

are for the outcasts, the punks, the rebels, the bullied and the subcultures – we

maelstrom of incendiary lyrics and introspective specu-

are all things socially conscious.’

lation of life in world of the iPhone and faux celebrity

Having already changed the face of music, appeared alongside some of the

status, all set to the thundering beats and cutting edge

biggest names in the industry, and seen their music appear in the soundtrack

swirl of sound and sensory explosions, the magnetically

of films and videogames alike, Dead Celebrity Status took the time to add an

enigmatic hip-hop group Dead Celebrity Status are looking to be the musical

interview with BWD Magazine to their impressive list of accomplishments

Poseidon’s on your iPod.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Formed by front men Yas and Bobby McIntosh and joined by DJ Dopey, the world first caught a glimpse of the future-DCS with the duo’s previous group,

BWD: First of all, hello and if you could introduce yourselves to our audi-

Project Wyze. Signed to Sony Music Canada after the groups two EP releases,

ence..?

Trapz of Poetic Poison in 1996 and the 1998 release Only If I Knew, they

Bobby McIntosh: Firstly, want to say thanks for having us. It’s a pleasure and

released two hit singles, the Def Jux artist Cage appearing on Nothing’s What

an honour for us. We are a group known as Dead Celebrity Status, which consists

It Seems and the Platinum Juno Award winning Swollen Members on Room To

of myself, Bobby McIntosh and Yas Taalat. As DCS we have released two major

Breathe. Despite critical and public acclaim the group soon after disbanded

albums (Blood Music) and (The Throwaway Kids). We are from Toronto, Canada

over creative differences.

and have made music together since we were teenagers so we have been a part of the music scene for quite some time. We pride ourselves on pushing the

As one chapter ended another began; and so it was Dead Celebrity Status

boundaries musically and artistically, giving everything we have in our live per-

released their debut album Blood Music in 2004, produced by the mighty

formances and interacting with our audience who we think of as, not only fans of

Danny Saber, and featuring such artists as Joss Stone, DJ Lethal, and guitarist

our movement but part of the DCS extended family.

impresario Dave Navarro. Title track and single Blood Money’s accompanying

BWD: Your sophomore album - The Throwaway Kids, released on 6.8.2.

video has already garnered the group the award for Best Independent Video

Records - has been an eagerly anticipated release, and looks set to turn a

at the West Coast Music Awards, and has seen the bands audience continue

new page in the world of hip-hop..? (A chance to expand on the themes and

to grow like a tidal wave across the music scene.

sound of the album; why it is an essential purchase and which singles our audience should be looking out for.)

Appearances on the same stage as Ozzy Osbourne and Tool taken in the

Bobby McIntosh: Ya, it really has been an album that has been 7 years in the

same confident stride as those with Public Enemy and De La Soul, Dead

making. We have gone through so many trials and tribulations to make this

Celebrity Status manage to transcend genres and appeal to everyone’s

album and I think the music reflects that. We really tried to push the envelope

tastes; be it the infectious beats or impassionate lyrics, the hurricane of

artistically and challenge ourselves. We grew up on classic hip-hop music like

sound levels all barriers in its pursuit of reaching your musical happy gland.

Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane etc. Although we respect the classic sound of traditional hip-hop, we feel that in some respect, as a musical

After a short break that saw the group wrangling with red-tape and industry

art form, hip-hop has become stagnant and everybody seems to be following

nonsense The Throwaway Kids represents more than just an album. As Yas

specific trends. Hip-hop culture has always been about being original, different

Talaat explains; ‘Throwaway kids are everything that goes against the norms.

and having pride in that.

8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

There was a time that if you sounded like someone else you were considered

we call family. Bobby and I have never really been attracted to a mainstream

wack and would get booed off the stage. So this album was made to combat and

product. Following a formula or doing something generic is really unimaginative

challenge what popular music has become. We have carved out our own lane

and boring. The pursuit of acceptance is boring and futile. We like to challenge

and are proud of that. Musically, we take that approach that nothing is off limits

ourselves creatively, intellectually and musically, so when it comes to making

that’s why we like to play with arrangements and different sounds and layers to

DCS music, it is a very natural process. We do not sit in a room and say, hey let’s

our music. Lyrically, we tend to pull from our own life experiences…Songs like

make something different, it just comes out that way because being different is a

“The Throwaway Kids,” Hurts Like…,” “Dancing On The Sun” are some examples

characteristic that’s in our bloodline.

of our deepest feelings and thoughts. We never want to be a group that is afraid

BWD: As previously mentioned, DCS are no strangers to sharing the stage with

to say something because it may not fit in to what mainstream society may feel

some of the biggest names in music, and deservedly so, but which appear-

as inappropriate or unacceptable to challenge and question. Other times, we like

ance has meant the most to the group? (Whether it be a small club or a more

to explore our wordplay and create unique patterns or concepts so it’s just about

arena-like stage)

being as original and creative as possible at the end of the day.

Yas Taalat: Not to sound cliché but every show we play is both incredible and

BWD: You’ve appeared on stage with some of the biggest names across the

important. We appreciate every opportunity we are fortunate enough to get to

whole gamut of the music world- from Tech N9ne to Ozzy Osbourne, to punk

be in front of a crowd of people doing what we love to do. It is a very humbling

bands such as Blink 182 and NOFX. How has DCS bridged the divide between

and exhilarating feeling. We have been blessed to tour across America, Canada

these apparently diverse genres to sit comfortably within them all?

and Europe a number of times so there are really too many shows to mention.

Bobby McIntosh: When we first started performing we were strictly doing hip-hop

However, touring across the country with the Prince of Darkness himself, Ozzy

shows. During that time, promoters also were very hesitant in booking hip-hop

Osbourne might be one of the most memorable experiences of our careers. I still

acts because of some of the violence that was happening at the shows which

remember walking into the arena for sound check and seeing Zakk Wylde and

forced us to look into other avenues to perform live and develop our live show.

Ozzy on stage rehearsing Mr. Crowley. We just stood there silent in complete admi-

So we started playing Punk Rock shows, Rock shows, basically any platform that

ration. I think I still have goose bumps to this day. Touring with artists like Tech

would give us a chance. So that really helped to develop our stage show to the

N9ne and Public Enemy will always be cherished because of the fans and kids who

point where we could play with any type of genre and feel completely comfortable

came out to support, but one of the tours we’ve been blessed to be part of that

doing it. So we actually feel just as confident and comfortable tour Ozzy Osbourne

we love is The Vans Warped Tour. We love the whole DIY attitude that comes with

ing with Ozzy Osbourne as we did touring with someone who may fit our style

the event. It is a gruelling, gritty and hard-core tour that is unlike any other tour

more like a Tech N9Ne or Jurassic 5. Challenging yourself and stepping out of your

in the world. It reminds us of when we first started out doing Punk Rock shows.

comfort zone is always a win-win anyway. You can’t help but learn that way which

It has a vibe and energy that is contagious and inspiring.

is what the end goal for us always is.

BWD: And finally; what one thing do you want people to think of when they

BWD: How far from your former group - Project Wyze - is Dead Celebrity

hear the name Dead Celebrity Status?

Status..? (A chance to discuss how the initial project influenced the formation

Yas Taalat: Dead Celebrity Status is more than music, it is a movement. We are

of DCS, what experience was gained and used in the current group, and how

a support group for anyone who feels left out or needs a helping hand. We make

different/similar the experience has been with this group.)

art that has an emotional connection with people and challenges the boundaries

Bobby McIntosh: Both Yas & I formed Project Wyze when we were 12 years old.

of what normal is. We are the unusual and proud of it. We are the trend breakers

We built the group to the point where we had a ton of success on a mainstream

and not afraid to scream in the face of anything mainstream. We take our art seri-

level. So we watched this little band grow into a success which was amazing for

ous and we care about every misfit that supports us. We are the new definition

us to have accomplished. However, it also kind of grew stagnant and we felt like

of hip-hop, musically and lyrically we drive in our own lane. This isn’t just a job

it no longer was challenging ourselves to become better artists. So we disbanded

for us, it is a lifestyle, it is everything we live and bleed for, this is more than just

the group and started Dead Celebrity Status as a way to wipe the slate clean

songs and videos, this is a revolution.

and really make music with no boundaries. With DCS, we feel completely fulfilled as artists and much prefer being in our own world and not having to appease

Contact Information:

band members. It’s hard to keep a band together, we learned that the hard way.

Website: www.DeadCelebrityStatus.com

Musically, DCS is much more mature and a better reflection of who we are as

Twitter: @dcstatus

people.

Facebook: dcstatus

BWD: Without a genuine contemporary or comparison to draw how would

you personally describe the ethos and execution of the music Dead Celebrity Status create? Is there a conscious effort to be aside from the formulaic, or is it a more natural thing for the group? Yas Taalat: The spirit of Dead Celebrity Status is deeply rooted in emotion, heart, pride and a never die attitude. We speak for the voiceless, the kids trapped in their bedrooms with no one to confide in, the outcast, the underdog, for anyone who isn’t afraid to stand up against the masses and be different. We make music for a generation of kids who have been pushed into the shadows, the forgotten, the misunderstood; we make music for a new generation of misfits, a band of misfits BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 9

INSPIRE, DREAM, BELIEVE, THIS IS WHAT I LIVE BY.....

aving toured the length and breadth of the UK and

0legendary LG Arena, Birmingham, for the mighty Guns N Roses and

Ireland, provided the chills and thrills to the heav-

magnificent Alter Bridge it’s not hard to imagine it won’t be too long

ing masses of

before Martyr De Mona

summer festi-

are looking at picking

val crowds, and

out matching curtains

sold out shows with a fevered

and quilts for their own

reaction of demand for tickets,

private Lear jets.

Martyr De Mona are a seemingly natural musical force in

After

hearing

their

human guise.

debut album and tracking down the band, BWD

From the acclaim of their debut

sat down to discuss

single release-The Jackal- to

with Martyr De Mona

the incredible response to their

how the group came to

first full album – the self-titled

be, what we can expect

Martyr De Mona release – the

from their upcoming

band have found a demand for

second album release,

their band wherever they crank

and if they couldn’t be a

up the amps and ignite the air with their grunge tinged metal styling.

pirate would any of the band consider spelunking…

Headlining shows in London, Birmingham, Leeds, Plymouth and Dublin,

Currently signed to IN AT THE EYE RECORDS and working on their fol-

the band also found time to take part in their first summer festival

low up album you can catch Martyr De Mona on their 2013 UK Tour at

appearances. Having secured much-coveted opening slots at the

one of their gigs listed on their Official Website.

10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

FEATURE & EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

MARTYR DE MONA

BWD: First of all introduce the awesome that is the band Martyr De Mona

was unbelievable. We don’t take this kind of thing for granted and it only drives

to us…

us on to step up again.

We’re a Rock band from the Midlands in the UK, I’m Louis, I sing and play guitar,

BWD: How has the reception to your latest single releases Memento and

Ant is the lead guitarist, JJ the bassist and Ash the drummer. This line up formed

Contagion been?

in the summer of 2012. We have a melodic edge and a lot of influences from

Fantastic! We’ve had some great reviews, radio play in the USA and had some

across the spectrum. We’re very busy recording our new album at the moment

regular play on Planet Rock Radio and Kerrang! Radio in the UK. We released this

and enjoying every minute of it!

double-A-side to introduce the fans to the new line up as we knew we would be

BWD: For a band whose first album- the self-titled Martyr De Mona – was

spending most of the year writing the next album. Fortunately, the fans loved the

only released in 2011 the path to superstardom seems almost set in stone;

songs but they’re now itching for the new stuff!

sold out Kerrang! Shows and supporting some huge names in the form of

BWD: It seems like Martyr De Mona have something of a musical Midas

Sonic Syndicate, Amplifier and Voodoo Johnson..?

Touch..?

We work extremely hard and don’t take anything for granted. With both this and

We’re so excited about the future. We signed to “In at the Eye Records/Universal

previous line ups we have been dedicated to giving the fans something to cherish.

Music” in December last year and we have written what we feel to be the epitome

Luckily we have a fan base that believe in us and turn up to shows in their droves

of an MDM record. We’re recording this September at Monnow Valley Studios in

and this has helped us to no end in getting slots on gigs with more established

Cardiff. To know bands like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin have been in that

bands. We love our music and playing live and the fact that we can share our

studio makes us very proud to have been afforded the same opportunity. We have

enjoyment with so many is a blessing.

our launch show planned in Wolverhampton where we expect over 1,000 people

BWD: Clearly it’s not just your fans who think Martyr De Mona are a band

to be there. We will be shooting two videos of our first singles and will be touring

verging on the cusp of greatness, with support slots for the infamous Rulers

the UK in April 2014. This is only what we know! Our management are working

of Rock’s Reins Guns N Roses before a sold-out crowd at the LG Arena surely

around the clock to make 2014 our year!

a vote of confidence from ‘the industry’ itself? To be asked to play the Forum at the LG Arena to thousands of people was a true honour and to do it under the same roof as one of the greatest bands of all time

(Cont’d on Page 25)

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 11

on of multi-platinum award winner artist Rome – the legend responsible for the timeless classic song ‘I Belong to You’ – this Californian-born musician has talent running through his veins, El-Jay’s resume reaching down all avenues of the entertainment business’ multi-faceted appellations and applying a Midas touch to it all.

A natural-born talent, his first steps in the entertainment world were more pirouettes than compositions, the five year old El-Jay taking inspiration from the seamless movements of Michael Jackson to develop his skill and mirror the actions he saw his musical idol perform. Clearly inspiration wasn’t kept to the field of dance, as El-Jay credits the synonymous Tyler Perry as helping to shape and define his incomparable list of latent talents; such that is was El-Jay found himself performing on the album ‘To The Highest’ - the independent release from the artist Rome - as well as appearing in the ‘People Of The World’ video to the acclaim and praise from his peers. The growth in El-Jay’s musical and entertainment interests subsided as high school saw him take the world of sports as his own, the talent he’d previously shown entertaining others through song and dance being channelled into dominating the fields of physical activities his eventual 6’1” frame found itself in. College saw the re-birth of his interest in artistic expression over physical prowess, and El-Jay once again found himself in the familiar world of music; only this time he bought the BWD: Who are you and why should you be on our iPods? experience of maturity to truly define and focus his skills alongside the physical appear- I’m EL-JAY your fresh new Urban/Pop singer, actor, and dancer. ance of one for whom the modelling world found it impossible to ignore.

BWD: Clearly you have a confidence that sees you perSinging, dancing, modelling and acting are the trademark of skills El-Jay is quickly becom- forming both on stage and screen with apparent ease; ing known throughout the industry for; but for those concerned the accolades of others where does this confidence come from? and attentions of the many may turn this truly blessed individual into anything other than the charming, respectful gentleman that he is, the ever guiding hand of his mother The confidence comes honestly from when I was a toddler. is there to help keep El-Jay grounded in reality. Having helped foster his talent since he Just always dancing and singing in front of the television first expressed his abilities in dance she has been a constant reassuring voice of reason watching Michael Jackson and also watching my father throughout, ensuring his talent is never obscured by ego or his abilities denied by any growing up. It just became second nature to me. As I got signs of self-doubt.

older I started to really craft myself and evolve into an artist. Which lead me to different television shows like the Disney

As his acting became stronger so too did the initial interest shown by the film and televi- channel Hannah Montana, Sonny with a Chance, Wizards of sion industry, El-Jay quickly landing himself several appearances in such hit shows as ‘In Waverly Place, and the feature film You Again. These are just It To Win It’, ‘Sonny With A Chance’, ‘Hannah Montana’ and ‘Zeek and Luther’ to name a few.

a few. I am working hard to take my career to a whole new level regarding film, commercials, and my music.

With the personal goal of broadening his talents in the entertainment world of film and broadcasting, as well as reaching the Y Generation through music so inspired as to easily BWD: How influential were the likes of Michael Jackson define a new genre, El-Jay released his third single ‘Emergency’ in January 2013 to a posi- and Tyler Perry on your developing as an artist? tive worldwide response, and intends to follow the demand for more with the winter 2013 release ‘Take A Ride’ – a soulful track written and co-produced by Rome, Middi West and Michael Jackson had a huge influence on my artistry. He set 727 Productions. the bar. He is one of my inspirations. I am trying to do my

own thing of course and not copy him but he has helped me Words don’t mean anything without the actions to back them up. And El-Jay is very much majorly as far as crafting my own sound and style in the enan artist with not just the actions to back up his words, but also the talent and abilities to tertainment world. Tyler Perry is a big one because he started make them as exciting and captivating as the man himself.

from the bottom. Now he’s one of the biggest actors and has one of the biggest production companies out there. I want to

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

collaborate with him in the future. I know I can learn a lot from him.

EL-JAY Cover Story

BWD: What difference did having such a musically

BWD: Where do you see the future of music with

respected artist as a father make?

regard to so many artists attempting to emulate oth-

I mean from my point of view regarding my father it

ers instead of discovering their own sound?

wasn’t a hindrance at all. I do have a lot of shoes to fill

When it comes to music, you can’t cheat the system. A

but I love a challenge. I always have. It brings the best

lot of artists these days don’t have their own sound or

out of me and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Nothing

movement. Majority of them will fall off. The ones that

for me has been easy since day one. I’ve had to work

do have all the components are usually the ones who

twice as hard as everyone else. I have come a long way

stick around for longevity. This is something that I have

but I’m just getting started. Nothing has been opened

been working over years for myself to make sure I’m just

to me or handed to me.

not another statistic.

BWD: Singing, dancing, acting; you seem to have

BWD: Penultimate question time! You’re in the mall

captured the mind-set and skills of the great figures

shopping for a new cruet set when your phone goes

of Hollywood – Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, Sammy

off. Upon answering you hear the head of Universal

Davis, Jr. – with your plethora of talent. Was this a

asking when you’re free for a meeting to discuss

conscious effort to be able to ‘cover all bases’ as it

signing to their label and launching you on a world-

were?

wide tour to promote the first of three albums they

No it wasn’t a conscious effort at all. Music, dance, and

want you to write with them. Distracted, you’re about

film is all a piece to the puzzle which make me who I

to answer when the beeping announces another call

am. I honestly couldn’t do one without the other. All

on the line; it seems Hollywood is also interested

of these important components mould me into who I

in sending you around the world, only for them it

truly am.

would be to promote the summer blockbuster and

BWD: Your third single Emergency dropped in January

it’s two sequels they want you to take the lead role

of ’03, receiving worldwide acclaim and recognition for

in. Whichever one you pick would prevent you from

you as an artist..?

being able to take up the other so the question is;

Doing the record Emergency was a true blessing and I

which do you pick and why?

am very grateful for it. I believe it’s a big record. Once

Wow this is an amazing question. Honestly I would

it was released the buzz was crazy. I got a whole lot

hear both of them out. My goal would be to promote

of great feedback regarding it. We are still pushing it

and tour for the movie and the sequel they want me to

to get to major radios and other avenues. Honestly it

be in. And in between record my album. As soon as I’m

hasn’t affected me in a bad way regarding television

done I would go right back to recording the rest of my

Youtube: /ELJAYTV

and film. It just makes me want to work even harder as

album and prepare for tour. I am a workaholic. All I can

Twitter: @elj1ay

an artist and actor for the whole world.

hope for is that God would work that situation out best.

Soundcloud: /elj1ay

I truly believe this is what I was put on this earth to do. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.”

Instagram: elj1ay BWD: Having delivered so highly with your first

BWD: And finally; what do you want people to take

release there is much anticipation for your winter

from the experience that is the artist known as

release Take a Ride…?

El-Jay?

Yes “Take a Ride” is one of my favourites. It’s a real

What I want people to take from the experience known

kick back smooth type of record that anybody can

as EL-JAY is that I’m very goofy, love to make people

rock to. My father wrote that for me. It was produced

smile and entertain them. I’m all about good music

by BlKMarketTv. The feature I have on the record is

and good vibes. I know there are a lot of things going

upcoming MC artist Cyrus. No release date just yet but

on around the world. I just want to make people’s lives

I will keep you all updated as we get closer to making

just a little less stressful through my music and films. I

that move.

truly believe this is what I was put on this earth to do.

Website: 410westllc.com

I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 13

YOUNG GOLDIE Songwriter, performer, model, dancer, director of video… The list of cre-

Appearing on stage at every available opportunity Young Goldie saw his fan-

dentials under the name Young Goldie is that of a musician with a reach

base grow with each performance, his audience visibly swelling with each

determined to out-stretch his grasp. With over 15,000 hits on You Tube of

new show. Heavy self-promotion and an undeterred drive has bought him

his breakout song ‘Gone Make It Clap’ within the first week of being released,

massive worldwide attention, with a following that stretches right around

there would appear to be very little outside this young rappers controlling

the globe and across the seas and onto iPods everywhere.

hold. Aside from his success as a musician Amin has carved a reputation for, himBorn Amin Saddiq Trayvon Peters, Young Goldie found his voice early on, the

self, in the world of business, his own company Young Goldie Photography

inspiration of his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland providing the backdrop

only the beginning of what is destined to be a media empire of consider-

to the hard hitting lyrics and uncompromising stance that would become

able force.

the Young Goldie trademark, and debuting on the independent record label 3rd Exit.

“Follow your dreams and never give up,’ is the message Amin ‘Young Goldie’ Peters advises others looking to him for inspiration. ‘Because hard work pays

Dubbed a ‘lyrical phenomenon’ Amin took his talent and applied the dedi-

off.’

cated view of a much older head to his pursuit of launching himself into the consciousness of rap-appreciators everywhere, his singles I Did It, I Do It and

With the download charts currently vindicating his words and YouTube

Gone Make It Clap proving to be massive underground hits that established

seemingly becoming his own personal channel, his own business founded

the name Young Goldie as one to watch out for.

and launched and enjoying growing this seventeen year old savant is set to become the next world-wide house-hold name.

Refusing to let the limited choices his city offered as a future – wherein drugs or jail, poverty and death were a day-to-day fact and an ever-real threat of the future that could await him – Young Goldie became heavily

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

involved with the music scene, entrenched himself in the single minded pursuit of using all his obvious talent to take himself and his family away

BWD: First of all, welcome; if you’d like to introduce us to the artist and

from their current surroundings and into the spotlight.

musician that is Young Goldie..?

14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Young Goldie, is an African American 17 year old teenage boy who dreams big.

Yes, because I work hard every day to make great music to get people through

Currently records himself in his homebuilt studio, records, shoots all his music

their day no matter what they are going through or the situation.

videos, makes his own graphic designs, and a promoter. He has been doing all this since age 12, but started rapping at age 4.

BWD: With so much drive to succeed and dedication to your work you’ve managed to lay the foundation for your own empire; does it feel hard to

BWD: For someone still under the legal drinking age you’ve managed to

believe you have achieved so much at such a young age?

not only establish yourself as a credible and incredible musician but also founded your own business in Young Goldie Photography? No, but to other people “YES” because, I started at the age of 4 and I did everyI felt like couldn’t no one help me but myself. I counted on other people so much

thing by myself; ended up on a great path to success. I feel like once people

to do stuff for me and it failed every time, no matter who it was. I always was

realized that I was gonna make it, then the right people would come into my

interested in pictures and videography anyway, so I just started taking pictures

life to help me out.

at weddings and parties for money. BWD: And finally; what should we look out for coming from Young Goldie BWD: Your breakout single ‘Gone Make It Clap’ really struck a chord with

in the future?

listeners, brought Young Goldie onto a lot of people’s radar..? You guys should look out for new music from Young Goldie and features from the I just felt like I can create all types of music for all types of crowds. I didn’t

R&B Superstar Mario Barrett, that’s also from Baltimore, Maryland.

wanna be stuck in one style, so I made a twerk song for the females. I am looking forward to doing plenty more of them.

Contact Information:

BWD: Compared to others within the genre, you have more of a drive, appear

Website: www.YoungGoldieGans.fourfour.com

more focused and ‘real’ than your contemporaries; is this something you’d

Twitter: @IAmYoungGoldie

attribute to your upbringing and its turbulent surroundings?

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 15

hen the film of his life is finally bought to the

bought the groups tenure together to an end. Fans disappointment

big screen many will be left with the feeling some

was abated somewhat by the single release Stronger, an unintended

artistic license may have been taken with the tale.

swansong available for a strictly limited time that managed to ful-

A self-taught musician of considerable merit James

fil all expectations whilst hinting at the promise of what the full

Hodcroft is one of Britain’s brightest shining musi-

album had in store.

cal stars, writing, composing, performing and producing all three of his solo album releases.

As the year progressed James lost the ability to hear in his right ear, a happenstance that could spell disaster to a musician’s career

Born and raised in the gentle slumbering surroundings of

and indeed drove James to take himself underground, out of the

Lincolnshire in the UK James’s inauspicious geographical surround-

spotlight, and away from the public’s eye. Whilst others may have

ings belie the somewhat exceptionally auspicious immediate sur-

chosen to wallow in self-pity at such burdens being levelled on

roundings regarding his birth.

their shoulders, James instead found an opportunity to truly show himself as a musician. As 2006 came into view so too did the first

Delivered on the set of the blockbuster film Little Lord Fauntleroy

fruits of James’ labour, with the soundtrack to the British thriller The

his early days were almost a portent of the future, surrounded

Pale Man being wholly composed and realized by James.

by such famous names as film stars Ricky Schroder and British cinematic icon Patrick

His 2013 solo release – the

Stewart - the former

single Hold Me – showed

being

off James’s romantic side,

become James’ godfa-

with the follow up release

ther.

You Won’t Be Defeated

requested

delivering fans new and Educated at the semi-

old a more ‘roots returned’

nal Melton Mowbray

feel whilst also showing

College of Performing

off James’s growth as a

Arts his first step on

musician.

the career path saw him engaged within

‘It’s amazing to think,’ says

Buckingham

Palace

James when speaking with

itself, wherein he met

BWD, ‘that in February I was

many of the world’s

still unsure as to whether I

most

lauded

and

should even bother trying to

respected stars and celebrities of both screen and stage.

have a solo career!’

Destined to become a part of the world of celebrity Kick Back UK

Proving his tale of unbelievable telling is one still far from the

became James’s initial foray into the world of music and perfor-

final credits with a third single waiting in the wings, an upcoming

mance, the band being spotted and instantly snapped up by the

all-acoustic tour, and a music video all still to come, the only real

Pioneer of British Pop himself, Vince Eager.

concern it would seem James has is deciding who won’t play him in the inescapably certain movie adaptation of his life.

A tour that saw the band performing with Pretty Boy Floyd, Jizzy Pearl, and glam rockers Love/Hate was quickly followed up in ’99

Contact Information:

with the group’s first EP This Is Not a Drill, the title a veiled reference to the difficulties faced during its recording with the bands

Website: www.JamesHodcroft.com

recording under less than musically conducive circumstance.

Facebook: JamesHodcroft.int Twitter: @jameshodcroft

The new millennium saw Kick Back take a more metal approach to their song-craft, and it was during the recording of the bands ultimately unreleased 2004 album Pulse that creative differences

JAMES HODCROFT 16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

FREEDOM AND THE PURSUIT OF MAINTAINING SAME IS NATURAL

JAMES HODCROFT

It’s amazing to think,’ says James when speaking with BWD, ‘that in February I was still unsure as to whether I should even bother trying to have a solo career!’

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 17

INSPIRE, DREAM, BELIEVE, THIS IS WHAT I LIVE BY.....

ttending a live gig used to be the way forward for

The recent downturn in financial security and worldwide loss of

discovering new bands, hearing new music, and find-

surplus expenditure has seen people’s choices on how they spend

ing another list of album names you had to check out

their money become less and less, and with it clubs and venues

the following day at the record store.

have found filling their coffers and tills harder and harder as people simply cannot afford to go out.

Clever marketing and conveniently simple ease-of-use of the internet has all but negated the need for a physical shelf to display the

The Midlands, UK, is well known as having one of the most thriving

wares of various artists, an innumerate amount of websites dedicat-

and continually growing live music scenes, home to such venues as

ed solely to the storing on and

the 02, The NIA, and

downloading from the tracks

the LG Arena. Having

and songs released by an even

seen the high streets

greater number of musicians.

and shopping malls

In turn this has seen several

become emptied of

well-known stores and busi-

their musical outlets,

ness fold, unable to compete

BWD sat down with

with the pricing and almost

owner to one of the

unlimited choice afforded by

most

Virtual Music Shop.

and well known live

established

music venues - The Live music, on the other hand,

Roadhouse

maintained an allure of its

Hicks to discuss how

own, one you couldn’t get

–

Zoe

the live scene has

simply by streaming from a site or clicking a link; the atmosphere

been affected, who shoulder the onus for its revival, and what

of anticipation and noise, the surging of the crowd as the band

simple steps can be taken to help maintain a thriving circuit.

moved the audience throughout its set with a commandeering stage presence, and the waking up the following day to a half worn stamp of whichever club you had gone to the night before on the back of your left hand.

18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

THE ROADHOUSE - LIVE MUSIC VENUE

BWD: Who are you and what venue do you represent?

music as a release from ‘the economy’ and all that chat… Some of the

My name is Zoe Hicks and I am the owner of the Roadhouse, Birmingham,

best music has been born out of poverty and troubled times, so we should

UK.

be due for an epidemic of amazing material!

BWD: What made you become part of the live music scene?

BWD: Has there been any change in the number of fans coming to

Like most I’ve always had a passion for live music, even when I was

support the bands?

performing myself in bands or as a solo artist. I knew my end mission

This is where it has been affected. People have got less disposable

was always to own a live music venue. Small intimate venues are a dying

income so they have to make choices, whereas previous to the economic

breed, and it’s important the right people manage them – as in; if you

downturn it wasn’t given a second thought. However, saying that, true

haven’t got the love for it, and it’s just a business/money decision – you’re

live music fans will never die out, there will always be a scene. And that’s

in the wrong game!!

the beauty of music: It isn’t- or shouldn’t – be money driven. You’re a devout live music fan or you’re not, whether you have ten pence or ten

My personal favourite gigs have always been in smaller venues, in par-

million in the bank, you can’t buy the feeling of being part of a great gig.

ticular the 12 Bar in Soho, London. I think arena and stadium shows have their place, but you can’t get better than an up-close and personal

BWD: Do you feel ticket sales help drive or deter a band?

gig experience.

It depends on the band. Some realize the concept of show business, and others just want to play. If you haven’t got some sort of business head on

BWD: How long have you been involved with the live scene?

you you’ll be playing to nobody!

I have been gigging since I was young, and have owned The Roadhouse since 2011. My time is dedicated to the club now, so unfortunately my

I truly believe that ticket sales should belong to the artist, so our deal at

performing days have taken a back seat. You have to be 100% focused

The Roadhouse are one of the best in the UK, with up to 100% take on

to ensure survival in these tough economic times, but I don’t see it as a

door sales in the artists’ favour.

sacrifice; I’m very fortunate to say I genuinely love my job, and I have a great team around me who are equally as devoted to the success of the

If ticket sales deter a band I would suggest there is something funda-

club as I am.

mentally wrong with their work ethic. The live music scene needs effort

BWD: Mentioning the current state of the economy, has there been a

from all sides - venues, promoters, fans and family. If one element fails,

noticeable change in the number of bands looking to get a gig?

it shows.

Not bands, no. In fact, I’d say due to the monotony of what everyday life

has become recently, it has inspired many to write songs or produce

(Cont’d on Page 21)

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 19

IBEE Whereas some musicians need to bombard their audience and the media with hyperbole to explain how contemporary and fresh their next single will be, it only takes one listen to ‘Don’t Walk Away’ by original R&B artist Ibee to become one of those championing his fresh, unique sound for him. At only twenty three years of age Ibrahim Isah – aka the artist known as Ibee- this Nigerian born trail-blazer has sent shockwaves across radio, the internet and out through the stratosphere with his bringing together of musical influences and cultural surroundings to reveal a sound right on the very cutting edge of R&B. Live shows and appearances further compound the demand for Ibee’s music; audiences quickly become fans, as his voice calls out to their emotions and wraps them in his world of words and winsome wonder. For one who began life with nothing Ibrahim’s drive to succeed and demand for his tracks being stoked by critical appreciation is kept both focused and grounded by his strong family ties. The seventh child of ten this sorcerer of sound finds strength from the closeness forged within his family unit, the encouragement he received when first beginning his career invaluable in helping bring the artist Ibee out from within. An unforgettable show at the notable De Ark Entertainment contest in Lagos, Nigeria underlined the dedication Ibee has put into becoming the master of his own destiny, and says ‘I never thought I’d reach this status so soon.’ With the July 26th release of his latest single ‘Don’t Walk Away’ dedicated to loved ones around the world and already set to become a familiar track within iPods and playlists, Ibrahim ‘Ibee’ Isah’s sound and style looks set to become the very definition of the term Contemporary R&B.

Contact Information:

20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

THE ROADHOUSE - INTERVIEW CONT’D BWD: How are the live acts using social media to help promote their shows? I think social media plays a huge part in driving the live music scene, but I do think sometimes we can all be too over reliant on it. There is something to be said for good old ‘word of mouth’. Facebook events, Bands in Town, Reverb nation are all heavily in the mix for promoting events. It can only be a good thing; all promotions is good promotion. However, there are some negatives such as ‘keyboard promoters, which I haven’t seen work yet. It’s not an easy option, and off the back of it there have been some monsters created which is actually damaging to the scene. But they are soon found out. The problem is, they set up again the next day under another guise or Facebook page, so BE AWARE! BWD: Do you feel the network of social sites help make it easier or harder for acts to get people through the door as most have free downloads and similar on their sites? It’s the worse of two evils. Everybody wants as much air play as possible, and if a band genuinely connects with a fan via social sites then you can only hope that they will want to go and catch them live at some point. I don’t think it’s detrimental. BWD: Is there anything you feel they could be doing to increase their exposure and chances of ensuring themselves a good crowd for their performance? Don’t overplay. It’s a double edged sword, but we see it so often. It’s a fine mix between getting yourself out there and leaving punters/fans wanting more. Hype counts for a lot! Network. Capitalize on every opportunity. Gig swap. It’s something that is so under-rated. We are proud of how many out-of-town bands we get on the bill at The Roadhouse, and that is all down to Birmingham bands connecting with others. Give an out-of-town band a good Birmingham crowd and let them repay the favour in their home-town. It’s so simple, keeps the scene fertile, but few manage to master it.

THE ROADHOUSE - LIVE MUSIC VENUE Website: www.TheRoadhouseBirmingham.com THE ROADHOUSE MAIN Facebook /pages/The-RoadHouse/138565109496930 THE ROADHOUSE BIRMINGHAM OPEN MIC (MONDAYS) /TheRoadhouseBirminghamOpenMic THE ROADHOUSE LIVE LOUNGE ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC (THURSDAYS) /TheRoadhouseLiveLounge THE ROADHOUSE COMEDY OPEN MIC (TUESDAYS) /pages/Roadhouse-Comedy-Open-Mic/142064825904372 Photo Credits: The Roadhouse - All Rights Reserved

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 21

3C FEATURE & EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW With a Creative sound, a Charismatic demeanour and a Commanding pres-

sound but drew a much larger audience than had previously been possible

ence both on stage and in the mixing room the MC prefix before his name

for a solo artist in Forsyth.

rightfully stands as a silent acknowledgement that hip-hop rapper and producer 3C is more than a Master of Ceremonies; he is the Maestro of Crunk.

As a group the ‘Ghetto Criminals’ had already begun to outgrow his hometown, but in March of 2009 his friend and fellow ‘Ghetto Criminals’ member

From his hometown of Forsyth, Georgia to the dominating force of a con-

Hurricane sadly passed away, succumbing to medical conditions and leaving

stantly growing and evolving artist he has become in Washington DC, 3C has

behind a legacy never to be repeated.

travelled several miles and a lifetime away from being just a young boy with a passion for singing; his single minded focus through even the most trying

Devastated, 3C managed to turn sorrow into strength, to take the ideals he

of life’s trials has lent him a maturity and emboldening of fortitude that has

and Hurricane had forged within their friendship and from their performanc-

culminated in his latest iTunes troubling album release, ’Adjustment Disorder’.

es together on stage to music of unprecedented force, unbelievable vision, and unparalleled equal that sees his latest album ‘Adjustment Disorder’ being

Like a kerb-side confessional 3C delivers an album that holds nothing back

received to audience and critical acclaim.

in its brutal reflection of the circumstance and cruel inspirations of the real world that drives the album, describes a way of life rather than a La-La Land

With the international world waking up to the fearsome energy of power

lifestyle. There is a realness weaved throughout that shows an artist expos-

causing a stir in DC and forcing its ears open to the formidable force of free-

ing his soul with an open honesty, releasing music that has passion, integrity

flowing power controlled by hands of an artiste, 3C is more than simply a

and a genuine sense of connection with his audience.

musician who is Creative, Charismatic, and Commanding; he is Changing the industry through the marketing and promoting of his own personal brand,

Already having a natural talent for performing 3C began developing what

Controlling the scene with hints of a much requested mixtape, and unleash-

would soon become his own unique style battling with other MC’s, his earlier

ing his Crunkness like a human tornado while devastating delight with plans

recording onto cassettes and then pouring over the out-put to further fine

of a thundering tour.

tune his craft showing him to be on another level compared to the so-called competition, effortlessly leaving them and the audience speechless at his

BWD: Who are you and why should you be on our iPods?

skill.

I’m energetic, insane along with a fast delivery. That’s how I catch most people’s attention; the fact that I have a unique sound. Just by listening to me you’re

Having established himself as a force to contend with 3C met with another

guaranteed to bounce, dance or go completely nuts.

similar force in the artist ‘Hurricane’. An equal to his talent, the two began battling one another until inspired to work together as the dual-governance

BWD: Your last album ‘Adjustment Disorder’ seems to show an artist who

of sound, forming the group known as ‘Ghetto Criminals’.

hasn’t just grown but matured their sound to become unique among their peers; would you agree?

Forging their strength as a group with performances throughout Georgia

I definitely think that ‘Adjustment Disorder’ was very diverse and gathers everyone

even 3C’s own turbulent personal life did nothing to stop their appearances

interested. So many tracks that a lot of people like. When I ask which ones are

igniting the airwaves and drenching audiences in the tsunami of sound that

the best, I always receive different opinions for each track. It always take time to

was the ‘Ghetto Criminals’.

progress with your music and I learned as I continued to grow. I remember on my previous projects I didn’t even have songs for the ladies because I was too hard-

During this period of mixed fortune 3C continued to write of the life he was

core. I started realizing that I needed a solid variety fan base.

finding himself in, the events laying the foundations of inspiration and culminating in his first full length album, the 2007 release of ‘Mind Killa’.

BWD: How detrimental was moving from your home town of Forsyth in Georgia to Washington DC on your career; is there more of an opportunity in

A move to Washington, DC in 2008 saw 3C appearing across various venues

DC to find your audience?

and stages throughout the city, and it wasn’t long before he caught the ear

I moved because I found a career job. I’ve also lived in a few other states as well

and attentions of several well placed connections. Within the year 3C would

when I was attending college. It was definitely a major move for me, now that

release his second album, ‘Psychoanalysis’, which not only broadened his

I’m financially stable.

22 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

CREATIVE CHARISMATIC COMMANDING I always try to create a fan base where ever I go as I travel to different cities. I

in your genre?

have a pretty good base back at home & Washington DC as well.

Well for one I remained myself, you have to do that. I think some artists get caught up with what’s hot and they begin changing themselves. You must create

BWD: What inspired you to take up the mantle of the microphone and put

something that’s gonna have that longevity, not temporary. You don’t wanna be

yourself out there on the stage?

known as one of those one hit wonders. I bring energy on every track that I drop

When I was younger, I used to freestyle all the time. One day they had a talent

or produce, nothing Mello, just pure energy. Whether it’s for the ladies, fellas,

show in the city, so this other dude at my school who I used to battle with had

party people, rock stars and even pop.

become best friends and formed a group. We just went up there, made it happen and the crowd enjoyed the show. The promoter of that event decided to book us

BWD: What’s the best and worst thing about the current scene and where do

a show for later on that year. At this point I started learning how to increase my

you see it ten years from now?

stage presence by practicing and developing an energetic style of music.

The good thing is the fact that you will have the ability to do whatever you want without an approval. The downside is that, albums won’t sell in high numbers.

BWD: ‘Back in the day’ artists used to have to tour extensively with the back-

That’s why most people drop mixtapes. People give away so much free music, a

ing of a major label to reach out and connect with their audience; now, with

potential customer doesn’t wanna purchase it, instead they choose to download.

social media sites and the internet providing an almost instant link to your

The future could go either way; it depends on how the world functions.

fans, do you feel being signed to a ‘label’ is necessary for an artist to break through?

BWD: If your phone were to ring right now with the offer to share the stage

I think the roles have changed now. The labels now just go after artists that have

with any single person – living or dead- for a one-night only exclusive per-

a heavy fan base that way they won’t have to work as hard. Marketing plays a

formance, who would it be and why?

major role with this generation because of today’s technology and social media.

It would have to be Lil’ Jon because he’s phenomenal when it comes to putting

It’s a plus and a negative at the same time because it does allow you to create

on a show. Put the both of us together and you would have an extremely crunk

your own path but the music doesn’t sell like it did back in the day. The labels

performance.

back then would pick you up right before you got hot, now it’s when you get hot. I don’t think that a major would help me like I would want. I wanna be able to

BWD: And finally; what should we be watching out for from 3C in the future?

express myself, nothing else.

Be on the lookout for the mixtape: The Story of Insanity pt. 2. It will be released sometime in 2014.

BWD: Your first album, Mind Killa, may not have achieved the level of success it clearly deserved but nevertheless struck a chord within people that no-one

Contact Information:

at the time was able to hit..?

Website: www.3C478.com Twitter: @3C478

It was my first album so I was just excited to drop a project after all these years

Facebook: /pages/3C/219363954826979

of preparation and dedication. I put so much time into that project, I pretty much

just pushed physical copies in the streets. I didn’t have any online presence at all. Lol... I didn’t know anything about business & marketing at that age. I just wanted to go in the booth and kill every track I was on or delivered. It was fun too, I was immature at the time but I eventually learned later on. BWD: Compared to your contemporaries releasing albums today how have you managed to set yourself apart from them, from being ‘just another artist’

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 23

DOPE BOY RECORDZ

Pop quiz, hot shot; what do crunk, Florida and some

capable of taking the genre in the directions they

base of operations, with invites to work alongside

of the best exciting new sounds from the world’s

wish to see it go, inevitable comparisons with the

artists from the UK and Germany accepted and

most contemporary new artists even the ‘establish-

likes of No Limit Soldiers and Money Millionaire

ready to complement those already undertaken

ment’ are finding hard to ignore all have in com-

are a welcome but wholly unnecessary vote of con-

and delivered on the labels latest eagerly awaited

mon? If you answered, ‘They are all a part of the

fidence for a label already dominating the charts

release, Started From Tha’ Bottom Vol. 1: A mixtape

dominating force of musical talent currently break-

and breaking new ground with each name they add

of performances from artists within the U.S. of A,

ing out of the underground and changing the dull

to their roster.

the demand for the labels interest sees a tour-

and drab landscape of the industry as we speak

de-force of talent taking the albums track listing

under the Dope Boy Recordz umbrella’ you still

Becoming masters of command with their cease-

above the usual limit of self-imposed excellence

wouldn’t be close to fully describing the prestige

less endeavours and unique insight into finding,

Dope Boy Recordz have consistently proven them-

and potential you are dealing with.

signing and unleashing the artists destined to

selves to be and raises the bar yet again for those

dominate your playlist has already seen Dope Boy

wishing to compete.

With the lyrical command of a general leading

Recordz receiving the affirmations of Brisco, Bone-

from the front backed up by an indomitable energy

crusher, Jt Money, and DJ Unk, with invites for open-

With a label ethos that states ‘We’re the truth!’ and

of auditory authority that’s as aggressive in execu-

ing slots quickly thrust in the labels directions as

the world waiting in line to work with the label,

tion as their performances are passionate in their

they reveal their table of talent to avid audiences

Dope Boy Recordz represents why the changing

delivery, Dope Boy Recordz is quickly becoming the

across the globe.

face of the music industry needs a powerful leader

standard-bearer of high energy, intoxicating inde-

Having made their presence known and felt

to see it through the transition; and with a Ser-

pendent artists’ aspirations everywhere.

throughout the clubs and venues of their native

geant-At-Arms in the form of John Dope overseeing

homeland of Florida, founder and CEO John Dope

the change it looks like the bright skies of Florida

Amassing itself an army of lieutenants and leaders

has wasted no time in showing Dope Boy Recordz’s

will soon be casting Dope Boy Recordz-shaped

in the guise of such names as LaFilera, Chiko Black,

skills and business acumen as a label isn’t ‘just’

shade everywhere and showing for all to see exact-

and Nestoe Wylabeee to name but a few, Dope Boy

limited to getting the best from their artists; ra-

ly why the current industry and its leaders are des-

Recordz is as much a family of the fabulous as it is

dio, mixtapes, and live audience accolades has also

tined to become a shadow of their former selves.

a label of legionnaires.

seen their name become a seal of quality assurance in the music buyers eyes the world over.

Changing the industries perceived status quo of

Contact Information: soundcloud.com/dopeboyrecordz

cookie cutter contemporaries Dope Boy Recordz

It’s also seen Dope Boy Recordz appearing on the

Twitter: @dope_boyrecordz Facebook: dopeboy.trevino

have already earned themselves a name as a label

radar of musicians much further afield than its

24 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

MARTYR DE MONA EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW (CONT’D) BWD: With so much already under the bands collective belt does

BWD: And finally; what does the future hold for Martyr De Mona? A

Martyr De Mona feel pressured or inspired to achieve more, to push

new release and a tour have been heard to be mentioned..?

further?

Our new album will be out in April 2014 and we will be touring for a long time to promote it including the major festivals all being well.

We don’t feel pressure because we enjoy what we do but we’re defi-

We’re very proud of the songs, it’s a true MDM album, and one that

nitely inspired. We want to get to the top, we want to play the best gigs

we hope will be very popular! Before that we’re back at the LG Arena

with the best bands, bands that we’ve listened to and admired since

in December warming up for Avenged Sevenfold and Black Sabbath.

we were kids ourselves. Many people believe in us and have dedicated

It doesn’t get much bigger than Sabbath for us, we really can’t wait!

their own time to us so it’s only fair that we do the same! Contact Information: BWD: Penultimate question time! When not making films alongside Tim Burton’s wife, Johnny Depp is known for portraying a swash-

Website: www.martyrdemona.com

buckling anti-hero in several pirate themed films. Having regularly

Twitter: @martyrdemona

been quoted as basing the character of Captain Jack Sparrow on the

Facebook: mdmband

legend of the six string himself, Mr Keef Richards, he has ensured

Photo Credits: Josh Farnell Photography

an enduring and endearing legacy for the Stones salubrious axe-

man. As it can surely be simply a matter of time before the band are informed of a phone call from Hollywood asking for permission to base a character on each member, what type of character (space-adventurer, time traveller, amateur spelunking enthusiast) do you think would best fit the individual members of the bands personality best and, assuming Mr Depp is busy with Burton’s wife, who would play this character? Haha what a question, not sure if there is a serious answer! How about the A-Team?!

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 25

Dr. John Roach founded the Bayside Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in 2008 with the hopes of providing residents of Tampa, FL & surrounding communities with a holistic approach to all types of surgeries. By taking a holistic approach at his Tampa, FL office, he gives his patients the most natural results possible from their plastic surgery. At Bayside, taking a holistic approach means providing our patients with multiple treatments in order to achieve a higher level of success. Dr. Roach examines the entire patient. He incorporates diet, exercise, nutrition, personal training, yoga therapy, organic skin care consultations and more into his patient’s plastic surgery experience. His holistic approach to treating patients in Tampa, and elsewhere in Florida, means that he believes surgery is only a small component in the ultimate care of his patients. Before opening the Bayside Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery near Tampa, Dr. Roach received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from State University of New York at Oneonta. He then went on to earn his Masters in Biomedical Science from Barry University, and later his Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine from NOVA Southeastern University. He earned his vast experience in general, plastic and reconstructive surgery by receiving training in numerous hospitals in Philadelphia and working with dozens of renowned surgeons. Dr. Roach’s experience and knowledge led him to be named chief resident in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Throughout his education and career he has earned numerous honors. He was on the chancellor’s list at the NOVA College of Osteopathic Medicine, he was a member of the Sigma Sigma Phi National Honorary Osteopathic Fraternity, and he received the H. Jeffrey Tourigian D.O. Memorial Scholarship Award. He graduated from medical school with honors, and now he hopes to incorporate his holistic approach to your plastic surgery. Whether you’re in Tampa, or elsewhere in Florida, you can count of Dr. Roach to provide you with the expert care and attention you deserve.

26 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Dr. John Roach Takes A Holistic Approach to Plastic Surgery in Tampa, Lutz, FL & Beyond

Plastic Surgery for New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Lutz, FL & Surrounding Areas

At the Bayside Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we want to help you enhance your appearance with cosmetic procedures that produce natural-looking results. Whether you’re seeking plastic surgery such as a breast augmentation to lift and enhance your bust line, or you want a facelift that leaves you looking naturally youthful and refreshed, our highly skilled reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr. John Roach, is ready to assist you with his knowledge and expertise. He expertly performs reconstructive and plastic surgery including tummy tuck procedures, liposuction, eyelid surgery, breast reconstruction, and more for men and women from New Tampa, Trinity, Lutz, Westchase, Palm Harbor, and beyond. Dr. Roach completed seven years of intensive training in general, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, and he practices at an in-house surgical center at the Bayside Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Lutz, Florida. Dr. Roach is an expert hand surgeon with experience in various types of hand surgery, including such as tendon repair, trigger finger repair, digital nerve repair, and amputation injury repair, among others. Additionally, he offers patients plastic surgery solutions when they’re undergoing general surgical procedures that may affect their appearance. Dr. Roach is a highly regarded reconstructive surgeon and uses his expertise to help women who have had mastectomies or unsuccessful breast augmentations to regain their self confidence through breast reconstruction. Our practice combines holistic strategies with traditional surgery to obtain the most natural results. For example, Dr. Roach may incorporate personal physical training, yoga therapy, as well as skin care consultations before and after your general and plastic surgery as a way to strengthen and nourish your mind, body and spirit. At Bayside in Lutz, FL we care deeply about our patients and their complete satisfaction. We encourage realistic expectations through education and ensure that each patient knows exactly what to expect from their procedure and the recovery process. Dr. Roach is a professional, caring and compassionate reconstructive plastic surgeon who pays close attention to detail to ensure that each procedure he performs will bring out the individual patient’s own natural and youthful beauty.

You’ve Asked For The Best, We Listened!!! Tell Them BWD Recommended Dr. Roach!!

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 27

BWD RECORDS, LLC INDEPENDENT MUSIC LABEL OF THE SOUTH

Continuing to set the standard for oth-

limit itself to one specific genre; rather

Continuing to set the standard for oth-

ers to follow BWD Radio has extended

it extends its horizons to include all

ers to follow BWD Radio has proven

its vast reach in the media with the

genres such as rock, metal, hip hop and

again the need to change and adapt

launch of its own record label, BWD

dance amongst others. A smorgasbord

in this never static landscape of media

Records, LLC ‘The Independent Music

of scintillating new acts are presented

and music is key to continued growth

Label of the South’.

under the BWD mantle, representing

and success. Pushing where others are

the best of the best and most unique

content to stagnate is the secret be-

Taking over a decade’s worth of indus-

in their field, such as you have come to

hind where BWD Radio currently find

try knowledge and experience BWD

expect from one of the industry’s top

themselves today, and with the launch

Records, LLC - ‘The Independent Music

media professionals.

of their own label in BWD Records it

Label Of The South’ - is the culmination

Owing to their unique position within

gives you some idea of just how far

of BWD’s vast expertise in the field of

the world of music BWD were able to

BWD Radio are aiming to go.

music and artist promotion; not con-

snap up and sign Florida based rapper

tent with simply waiting to see what

5 M.I.C-Z to their label, an artist that

“Don’t just MAKE a Difference, BE the

single or artist reaches number one

brings with himself a level of credibility

Difference.”

BWD Radio took their position of be-

that owes everything to musical talent

ing known globally as the leaders in

and dedication and nothing to a cyni-

– BWD Records, LLC

discovering new indie acts and on the

cal self-styled back-story and whose

‘The Independent Music Label of the

26th of October 2012 launched their

first release on the label – ‘Head Turna’

South’

own record label, BWD Records. Dedi-

– has firmly established the label as

cated to finding the best as-yet un-

serious competition to the established

known talent out there BWD doesn’t

status quo.

Vi s i t w w w. B W D R e c o r d s . c o m o r w w w. Fa c e b o o k . c o m / B W D R e c o r d s . l l c 28 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com