BWD Magazine - March/April 2016

The ‘Best Worldwide Driven’ Variety & Entertainment Magazine

March/April 2016

Tessanne Chin NBC’s ‘The Voice’ journey with me 5 Healthy & Cheap EASTER BASKET IDEAS

BRYAN HAYES “farther down the line”

ST PATRICK’S DAY FOODIE IDEAS

DROWNING POOL HELLELUJAH

OVER a decades worth Of experience and knowledge

Features 04 Bryan Hayes Farther Down The Line

06 Legendary Gritty, Poetic And Intellecutal

08 Gary Nelson Continues To Burn

10 Drowning Pool HELLELUJAH

18 Pelugion This Is Only The Beginning

19 JCraig A Quiet Storm Stirring

21 Wormbass Fulfilling His Destiny

COVER STORY 12 Tessanne Chin Much Has Happened Since “The Voice”

Lifestyle | HEALTH 07 5 Healthy & Cheap Easter Ideas Have Fun With Healthier Easter Baskets

14 Dr. Vastola’s Health Tips (Column) The Dangers Of Taking Things For Granted

16 St Patrick’s Day Food Ideas 5 Simple & Healthy Foodie Ideas

22 Be Inspired (Column) Eloho Shares Words Of Inspiration

ENTERTAINMENT 17 All Hands On Deck (Last Column) Sierra Alston Interview

23

Juniper On The Water

Industry Passion Into Reality

2 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

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.

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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.

With a worldwide audience of subscribers downloading and learning which name to look out for, which band they should be following, who or what 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!

BWD Magazine - “The Best Worldwide Driven” Magazine

Editor In Chief V Keach

Writers Various Contributors

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Offical Website BWDMagazine.com @BWDMagazine

‘Leading Whilst Others Follow’

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 3

Bryan Hayes B ryan Hayes crafts personal narra-

“I wasn’t really thinking of a theme, but now that it’s

tives with a novelist’s eye (“Let’s

complete I guess the constant theme I see and hear

Ride”) and a poet’s elegance

is just real life. The songs are real. They’re things

(“Small Town Amazing Grace”).

that I’ve lived and experienced. Like Jimmy Buffett

Clear evidence: The Memphis

said in a song ‘some of its magic and some of it’s

area resident’s seamless Farther Down The Line.

tragic’. Some of the songs make me smile and some

Hayes’ excellent new collection spotlights a rap-

of them make me cry, but I felt like they all have

idly rising songwriter growing exponentially (the

a place on this record.” They certainly do. Farther

title track). “This record was definitely written with

Down The Line effortlessly splits the delicate dif-

more confidence,” Hayes explains. “I was not afraid

ference between moving (“Tangle Me Up in You”)

to touch on subject matter that I might have shied

and grooving (“Everything’ll Be Okay”).

away from a few years ago. I now know what a gift this career is, so I feel like I owe it to my folks to be

Folks notice. “Not only does Bryan craft a great

honest and open. I want the songs to come from my

song with melody and music, but more impor-

heart.”

tantly he crafts a great story with his lyrics and he sings them the only way he knows how – from his

Hayes frequently delivers keen insight with earthy

heart,” says Andy Hunt, the celebrated Grammy-

elegance. “We break out those old CDs and do our

winning, Nashville-based producer. Frequent Guy

best to sing along,” he sings on the buoyant open-

Clark collaborator Noel McKay echoes: “Bryan

er “Let’s Ride.” “We fumble through the verses and

Hayes’ songs always come from that sincere place

shout the chorus loud and strong, with both those

that seems to effortlessly draw the listener in. He

speakers blaring Guy Clark and John Prine/Baby,

is among the rare songwriters truly capable of

tonight let’s ride.” The song effectively serves as

channeling life experience into great, listenable

a blueprint for the Memphis songwriter’s career:

songs.”

Free your mind. Loose inspiration within. Let music speak.

The excellent new album doubles down on past high watermarks (Still Just a Man…10 Years Later)

“While I was writing for this record, I was just trying

with vivid vignettes throughout (“Southern Rain,” “I

to write the best songs that I could,” Hayes explains.

Wanna Run”). Admittedly, Hayes’ canvas for subject

4 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

matter has expanded with greater breadth and depth. “I touch on

Still Just a Man…10 Years Later marked a reflective moment in a

God and politics a bit in this record,” he says. “Sometimes that’s a

career built from the ground up. Hayes’ debut Just a Man (2004)

tough row to hoe when you’re playing a lot of the smaller clubs like I

earned a loyal following in the Mid-South and boosted his touring

do, but my songwriting heroes did the same thing. They were always

schedule as well as earning two “Best Of” Memphis Songwriter

open and honest, and I loved that about them. I have always admired

Awards. His second album Long Hard Road (2006) took Hayes and

the fact that Billy Joe Shaver has the courage to sing about Christ

his band ‘The Retrievers’ to the regional level with independent

in bars and clubs. I actually got to open for him in late 2014 and I

internet radio play over the Southeast. His Tangle Me Up In You EP

thanked him for that.”

(2013) grew his audience even farther and earned opening slots for Randy Houser, Turnpike Troubadours, Billy Joe Shaver and several

Spin that word and expand the notion: Thankful. You’ll notice Hayes

others. “Bryan Hayes and I both come from the Deep South,” says

express the feeling around every twist and turn. Much has to do

The Trisha’s singer-songwriter Kelley Mickwee. “That means he tells

with returning from a side trip he took years ago: Fighting in the

it like it is.”

war in Iraq. Naturally, that mission pushed his songwriting toward the back burner. “There was a two-year window in 2009 and 2010

His straightforward approach has paid off handsomely. Hayes’

when I was deployed to Iraq and I had to put the guitar in the closet,”

songs have appeared on several compilation albums including the

he says. “I was either at Fort Benning Georgia training or in Iraq. As

Memphis Songwriters Association’s 2010 Members Only album

the military tour started winding down, I picked up the guitar again in

(“Soldier’s Prayer”) and Retriever Records 2012 compilation B-Sides,

Mosul, Iraq and started writing again and reconnecting with music and

Demos & Lies “Woman (You’re Amazing To Me)” and “Small Town

how much I love and missed songwriting.”

Amazing Grace”. Additionally, Hayes appeared on Retriever Records’ 2012 live album Live At Farmhouse Studio (“Long Hard Road,” “Texas

Hayes looked toward songwriters like Clark and Prine for insight

in a Bottle”). In addition to writing and performing, Bryan is a

and inspiration when entering the studio for his triumphant return

producer and engineer at Farmhouse Recording Studio (www.farm-

to the fold, Still Just a Man…10 Years Later, effectively modeling the

houserecordingstudio.com) in Moscow, TN.

recording process after the 2012 Americana Album of the Year This One’s for Him: A Tribute to Guy Clark. “That record changed my life,” he says. “The way those songs were presented was just so intimate. It

Contact Information

sounded like you were in the room with those guys. Guy’s ability to be brutally honest is what I take away. He gets right to the point. There’s

Website: BryanHayesMusic.com

no fluff, no smoke and mirrors. Everything from the music to the lyrics

Twitter: @BryanHayesMusic

to the production needs to be there. The first time you hear ‘Stuff That

Instagram: BryanHayesMusic

Works,’ you shake your head and smile and go, ‘That’s it. That’s all it needs.’ You instantly relate.”

All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 5

legendary E

rik “Legendary” Heath was born October 15, 1990 in Baltimore MD. Legendary grew up around Edmondson Ave. A street notorious for drugs and gang violence.

Legendary was invited to the 2014 BET Hip-Hop Awards the year he decided to start rapping. That’s not the amazing part!

He had NO industry connections whatsoever. NO knowledge of recording or promotion. NO mixtape or single out. Only his street ties.

He fell into the temptation the streets brought, but decided that going to college was more important.

Legendary’s lyrics are gritty because of his street ties, but his college education gives a poetic and intellectual influence on his music that appeals to all listeners.

He grew up listening to Cassidy, Fabolous, Scarface, Method Man, NAS, and of course Sisqo & Dru Hill. You can almost hear it in the music.

Contact Information: Email: Ghosttbm@yahoo.com

Legendary conveys the same lyricism that these artists used to dominate the rap game in the 90’s/00’s but with modern production and limited resources as an independent artist.

Twitter: @LegendaryTBM Instagram: Legendary410 Photography/Artwork Credit: @Andodaman_Ceo All Rights Reserved

6 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

5 healthy & CHEAP easter basket ideas Minimize sugar and maximize fun for healthier Easter baskets.

3. Give the gift of reading for Easter. Your tweens won’t know they’re building their vocabulary with that trendy, yet inexpensive

You’re filling your kids Easter basket to the brim with calorie laden

paperback you tucked into their Easter basket. Find out what the

goodies. Does that make you a bad mom? No. It just means you

latest popular tweenage book series is. Tuck the first book into their

want to put a smile on their faces. Unfortunately, those smiles

Easter baskets to get them started. Just make sure you’re prepared

won’t be bright long if your tweens eat all those sweets. Go ahead

to purchase the rest once they get hooked!

and give them those chocolate bunnies. It’s an Easter tradition. As for the rest of the basket, try one or more of these cheap, healthy

4. How about adding a dollar store jigsaw puzzle? Tweens love

Easter basket fillers.

them. They’re educationally healthy. They don’t cause cavities. Plus, they’re well within the budget.

1. Make some healthy Easter basket treats. Your tweens might like some homemade goodies to replace those artificially sweetened

5. Add cheap Easter basket’ stocking stuffer’ type toys. Head back

store bought treats. Why are homemade treats healthier? You can

to the dollar store for small items like jacks, tops and balls for old

control the amount of sugar. Plus, you know exactly what else you

fashioned fun. Look around the store for more ideas. Add wind-up

used to make them. Sneaky moms can add healthy ingredients like

toys, travel games, a yo-yo or whatever else you can find. Tweens

nuts and whole grains to maximize nutrition.

might also appreciate an inexpensive gift card from their favorite store. Easter fun doesn’t have to equate with cavities and stomach-

2. Inexpensive art supplies make a nice themed Easter basket for

aches. Minimize sugar and maximize fun for healthier Easter bas-

tweens. Creative development is essential to kids’ health.

kets.

Try adding these popular items: *Paint and brushes *Crayons and coloring books *Clay *Markers or colored pencils *Paper BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 7

gary nelson

G

ary Nelson is a singer, songwriter and guitar player from Chicago, IL. He now resides in Arkansas.

Gary started singing late in life. Elvis and the Beatles were huge influences on his musical direction, so his songwriting will sometimes have those flavors to them.

Nelson sings lead, harmony and plays guitar, lead/ rhythm, bass, drums and dabbles with some keyboards now and then.

Gary loves writing songs with interesting melodies and rhythms. He considers himself as a creator of music, and loves doing just that!

Nelson writes, records, produces and arranges all of his material.

Gary loves to perform in front of an audience and strives to create ‘on-stage’ the same sounds that are produced on his song’s recordings.

Nelson’s song catalog has well over 100 unpublished songs and he continues to write songs and perform for the masses with his latest single “Continues To Burn”.

Contact Information Twitter: @GN125072 ReverbNation: GaryNelsonOneOnly

The single “Continues To Burn” is Available Now!

Facebook: JamesGaryNelsonOnlyOne

itunes.apple.com/album/id1057416691 All Rights Reserved 8 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

F

rom the sunny shores of a Floridian sky to the

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

ears and eyes of a worldwide audience BWD

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

has grown from an acorn of an idea into an oak

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

tree of industry-might, its roots deep within the

ing all avenues of generating awareness and recognition to the

strata of social sites and online promotions, its

talents it reveals, encouraging the growth of their fan-base and

branches far-reaching and bearing fruitfulness aplenty.

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

Starting out developing websites Ms. V proved herself more guru than mere graphic designer, her final works forging a reputation of

With the recent successful launch of the BWD Radio app the audi-

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

ence all artists are looking to find are as close as they have ever been, right on the other side of millions of touch-screens and

Quickly she began laying the foundations for what would become

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

her own empire, reputation growing with each engagement and

across their surface.

the horizon of possibilities expanding even further than first dreamed.

Now a major player in the world of radio and media, the leader in the field of generating buzz around the artists it plays on its non-

Whilst making some of the connections that would see BWD

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

become a leader in its field murmurings and mutterings regarding

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

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

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

Listening to the sounds of discontent chattering in the background

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

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

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

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

Castle once said ‘Dedication’s all you need’. The ‘Best Worldwide

Industry were more concerned with how profitable a bottom-line

Driven’ Station.

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 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

Instagram: BWDPromotions

into the charts.

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 underground and across a global stage.

(Sponsers) Photo Credits: BWD Graphics - All Rights Reserved.

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 9

drowning pool

G

iant riffs, crowd moving grooves and monstrous vocals are the tools with which DROWNING POOL build triumph out of tragedy, steadily evolve without compromise, and remain true to their supporters with over a decade’s worth of remarkable fortitude and attitude. HELLELUJAH is absolutely the album their diehard fans demanded and the aggressive heavy rock world at large deserved.

The platinum-plus conquerors from The Lone Star State deliver their heaviest batch of hell raising anthems, each burning with fiery adrenaline destined to light the radio ablaze and ignite crowds into impassioned sing-alongs.

Only a few seconds into the album’s first single, “By the Blood,” it’s evident that Hellelujah is the most aggressive, ambitious, and truly definitive Drowning Pool album since Sinner, the platinum platter that gave the world Top 20 rock radio hit “Tear Away” and the massively successful “Bodies.”

It doesn’t get more brazenly defiant than Drowning Pool Hellelujah bangers like “We Are the Devil,” “Goddamn Vultures,” or “Push”: forward thinking modern rock anthems incorporating classic elements of brutal grooves with melodic power that never once sounds weak. C.J. Pierce’s guitar work is devastatingly crunchy yet dynamically colorful, locking in perfect sync with the charging rhythms of fellow cofounders Stevie Benton on bass and Mike Luce on drums, as Jasen 10 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Moreno’s vocals forge venom and bile into hooks.

Drowning Pool have scorched the stage alongside a who’swho of genre legends, upstarts and everything else on the spectrum, including Ozzy Osbourne, Mötley Crüe, Papa Roach, System Of A Down, Kiss, Korn, Sevendust, Seether, Hellyeah, P.O.D., Five Finger Death Punch, Black Label Society and stints on Ozzfest with Metallica, Rob Zombie, and Marilyn Manson.

Each of Drowning Pool’s last three albums debuted in the Top 5 on Billboard’s Hard Rock chart, cementing the legacy established by their legendary platinum debut, Sinner, which the band celebrated with a 13-year anniversary special edition and tour. Moreno’s massive pipes enabled him to quickly master Drowning Pool’s dense catalog when he became the band’s frontman in 2012. From his reverent delivery of the late Dave Williams mosh-pit ready lyrics in the ubiquitous signature hit “Bodies” to his powerful take on Top 5 Active Rock hits like “Step Up” from Desensitized (2004), “37 Stitches” from Full Circle (2007), and “Feel Like I Do” from their self-titled album (2010). As Revolver Magazine noted in their detailed review of Resilience (2013): “Drowning Pool continue to produce consistently killer albums with an unmistakable sound.”

Hellelujah (2016) is unfiltered and uncompromising, representing a band free to say, play, and do what they please, thanks to the unending support of their fans. Their shared loyalty, drive, and passion resulted in what Moreno describes as a “bad attitude record,” an album that pulls no punches with inspired confrontation. Producer Jason Suecof (All That Remains, Trivium, Demon Hunter) was the perfect man to capture the blend of metallic roots and instantly memorable choruses, riffs, and wickedly upfront lyrical assaults.

Drowning Pool songs conjure emotions that deeply connect with those who persevere against the odds and sacrifice to survive, whether it’s a military soldier serving overseas, or a blue-collar family trying to make ends meet. Their music transcends boundaries of race, class and lifestyle as well, resonating with people from all walks of life who look to music to get them through life’s challenges. The band’s Texas-sized crunch and gregarious, charismatic personalities catapulted them to platinum status and hard rock royalty in the early 2000s alongside contemporaries like Disturbed, Godsmack, and Slipknot. They’ve toured with Ozzy Osbourne. They regularly perform for U.S. Troops, traveling as far as the war zones of the Middle East to the outposts of Southeast Asia.

They personally encouraged then-Senator Barack Obama to push through the Lane Evans Health Act, which improved healthcare for veterans.

Big sonic slabs of muscular power with a taste of the dark melodies of post-grunge remain Drowning Pool’s stock and trade. Their music is an unapologetic celebration of life’s joy and pain, able to swiftly maneuver between defiant declarations of resistance. Each distinctive era of the band’s history is represented onstage, where the band bashes through an arsenal of anthems all delivered with precision strength.

The Hellelujah songs (with more contributions from all four members than ever) pulse with the power of all that’s come before and a reinvigorated hunger for the future. Drowning Pool celebrate the past while firmly focused on the present, coalescing into a brightly lit artistic future.

Contact Information Website: www.DrowningPool.com Twitter: @DrowningPool | Facebook: DrowningPool Instagram: DrowningPoolOfficial YouTube: DrowningPoolOfficial Wiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drowning_Pool Photography: Colt Coan C.J. Pierce – Guitar Stevie Benton – Bass Mike Luce – Drums Jasen Moreno – Vocals All Rights Reserved

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 11

A

t the White House on a bill with Aretha Franklin; singing duets with Adam Levine and Celine Dion; showcased on a float at the Rose Bowl Parade and headlining massive festivals worldwide: Tessanne Chin’s supple, soulful voice and impressive inventory of credits are equally stellar.

Still, her greatest ambitions are all future tense. As she launches the next phase of a storied career she is writing and recording songs for her latest project, partnering in new businesses and product endorsements, and most of all, delivering her remarkable voice and charismatic star power to loyal audiences worldwide.

“Every day I’m reminded that I am doing the right thing,” she notes “It’s a wonderful thing to travel the world doing what you love, and most of all to share the music.”

This music flowed from multi-cultural ancestral bloodlines in Kingston, Jamaica as Tessanne grew up with two accomplished musicians in a home equipped with a recording studio. “I am blessed that they encouraged me, Tessanne says. “It’s a hard business. They knew, and always showed support.” Leaving home at age 12, Tessanne lived in England, and channeled the emotions of separation into songs.

Tessanne Chin

’Love Suicide’ represents a soulful, sexy but edgy side to me,” says Tessanne. “I love the concept of giving your being completely over to love and surrendering yourself to this emotion. I feel that everything from the production to the lyrics to the melody supports that feeling and paints that Returning to Jamaica, she fronted the rock-reggae band Mile High picture perfectly.” and her musical education was uplifted when she joined Jimmy Cliff as a backup singer and toured the world with the reggae In this phase of her evolution, songwriting is an essenlegend. “I learned so much,” she says of this experience. “He is tial element. “I have to be completely real with myself; such an incredible personality. No matter how big or how small the more honest than with a diary. It’s therapy,” she says of the audience, I learned the importance of treating every performance the creative process. And in her lyrics, she delivers what she same. I learned to leave it all on the stage.” describes as, “My point of view, my interpretation and the message that captures the emotion.”

Recording solo, Tessanne released a series of popular singles that gained attention both at home and with Caribbean audiences in In tandem with her two sisters, Tessanne has opened the U.S. Her full-length debut, In Between Words was an introduc- Blow by Blow, a full-service beauty salon in Jamaica, tion to a global audience. and with its success, envisions expanding to additional locations. “It’s a wonderful thing to see people walk in and With her televised triumph as the winner of Season 5 of the hit then to leave feeling beautiful,” she says. She has also NBC show The Voice, the promise of Tessanne Chin was fulfilled. partnered with Bellami Hair Extensions. “In this age you Live, onstage for millions of viewers worldwide, performing clas- have to be multi-faceted, to put yourself out there in any sic songs, becoming the first contestant to hit #1 on the iTunes way you can. Just as in performing: you have to feel good chart not once but twice, and reaching #4 on the Billboard and you have to look good. The message is embrace who Heatseekers album charts, she enraptured an enormous audience and everything that you are, with or without makeup.” and delivered her inaugural Republic Records release, Count On My Love.

For audiences who know Tessanne Chin through her Her last recent single, “Fire” embodied what she described as “woman power…a modern anthem.” Now working on with a select studio of first call producers, Tessanne is prepping a new project.

The sultry “Love Suicide” reveals new sonic dimensions.

12 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

live shows and her rich catalog of songs; who follow her on social media or who witnessed her remarkable ascension on a top-rated television show, she offers this message. “A lot has happened since The Voice. There is so much more to me than that. I want to reintroduce myself and say, ‘Hi - how are you doing?’ I want listeners to come on this journey with me.”

When and/or what was the Epiphany in becoming a singer, songwriter and

exclusive interview

performer? That moment in time when you just KNEW what the future held for YOU! I know it’s hard to believe, but honestly it was at that moment when I

Welcome! Let’s start this journey! Please introduce us to Tessanne Chin…

was 5 singing “Stand By Me “. I never wanted to do or be anything else. I always

I was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica where I still currently live. I grew up

hoped and wished and knew this is what I’d be doing. I feel very blessed to have

in a musical family and music has always been one of my greatest passions. I’ve

had the parents and family I have who taught me that anything was possible if I

been singing since I was a child and I’ll probably be still singing when I’m in my

worked hard and did my best and believed.

90’s lol. I love writing also and pretty much anything to do with the arts and I have the awesome privilege of doing what I love for a living.

Do you get nervous before a performance? If so, how do you handle that?

I do!!! I get really quiet and have to say prayers with the band and also just tell

Congratulations on your televised triumph as the winner of Season 5; of the

myself it’s gonna be a great show lol!!! I also try to warm up vocally to break

hit NBC show, The Voice! Tell us about your most humbling moment(s) and

the nerves a bit or if my Dad is around I’ll sip whatever he’s drinking (which is

why. Do share the experience. Was it ALL you dreamed it would be or MORE?!

normally strong, lol!) and just take it from there.

I had a few humbling experiences, but for sure getting to sing with Miss Céline Dion who has been my idol since I was like 12 years old was by far one of my all

Your latest project “Love Suicide”, can you explain what that means to our

time favorite memories of LIFE!!! She was just the perfect example of grace and

readers and the concept behind it? The way I interpret “Love Suicide” is feeling

class with such a sweet and kind spirit, but she owns her stage and she is just

something so strong that you surrender to it, you fall into it and just allow it to

a master at what she does. The Voice experience for me was incredible. It was

embrace you. It’s all positive and all about the greatness of that feeling, to love

amazing to have had such an amazing opportunity and to be exposed to that

and be loved.

level of quality in terms of production and sound, stage, hair, make up, wardrobe etc. It was all I dreamed of and more.

What’s your motto or the advice you live by?

I have a few. My favorite right now is “Stay in the now.” It’s so easy to worry about

If you had to explain your music to someone who has never heard of ‘Tes-

things we can’t change and things that may or may not happen, but if we could

sanne Chin’ until today; or after The Voice, how would you describe your

just remember to be present and aware of what is right and what is wonderful

music? My music is soulful and honest with a slight edge to it. I’m a Jamaican

about our lives in any situation you can always find the silver lining.

woman, so you know there is inevitably gonna be that swag to it too.

What can people expect to see at your live performance(s)?

Let’s talk Rose Bowl!!! Most can ONLY imagine what it’s like just to be there in

I love performing live. I love being able to connect with an audience and share

attendance; BUT, on a float?!! How did this soulful voice wind up ‘floating on

with them and talk to them and have a good time. There is also something

by us?!! Lol! We found out the last week of The Voice that the top three would be

magical about performing with my band...all these different energies and sounds

participating, and I feel a little embarrassed to say this, but I honestly didn’t know

coming together to make for one heck of a great time. It’s an experience that I

what it was for a minute because I had never heard of it or seen it. However,

live for sure and one that I’m always ready to have.

that did not take from it being a huge honor and also being able to have that as a beautiful memory. I was so impressed by the floats and how extraordinarily

And finally, what’s next for Tessanne Chin in 2016/2017? We know your

beautiful they were and in awe of how much effort and time it must have taken

greatest ambitions are all future tense! Maybe on Film!? Any project happen-

to put them together.

ings that you’d like to share with us. Any dates we should be looking to circle on our calendars?! This year we are focusing on completing the album and also

Share with us some of your musical influences while growing up. What and/

re-launching my career in a different way. I am so grateful to The Voice for giv-

or whom inspires you to be the artist that you are today? Oh lord, we may

ing me an amazing Launchpad, but I want to be Tessanne Chin the Artist not just

run out of space!!! There are so many. As I mentioned before, Céline Dion, Bob

“Tessanne Chin the girl who won The Voice”, so I am looking forward to getting

Marley, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Prince, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, but I still

to know who I am more as an artist and being able to share that with the world.

loved rock music too like System of a Down, Skunk Anansie bands like The Cranberries.... The list goes on. I love amazing voices, but I also love when music can deliver an amazing message too. That inspires me, music that speaks to you and lives on through the ages.

What was the first song that you ever sang? How did it make you feel? In the studio and or live! I remember it!!! I was 5 years old at my parents band rehearsal and for whatever reason I got brave and took the mic and started singing “Stand By Me “ and my Aunty Marie was on the guitar and she started

Website: www.OfficialTessanneChin.com

backing me up. I remember the feeling I got when I started to sing and feel the

Twitter: @Tessanne Facebook: TessanneMusic

song and then to see everyone enjoying it, that was it, it was over, that was it and

Instagram: TheBestess | Youtube: /user/Tessanne

has been ever since.

Nathan Patrick - Photography BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 13

the dangers of taking things for granted Drink and Be Merry

INTRODUCTION Some things are so obvious that they hardly need explanation but that could be a fatal mistake. Let’s take a look at Henry David Thoreau, grape juice, and how they are related through the common thread of “Taking things for granted”.

2.

Patients ask me all the time whether grape juice is just as good for you as red wine and I HAVE responded “YES”, because they both come from red grapes and therefore have equal amounts of

Resveratrol. Resveratrol has been directly related to longer lives through many mechanisms including gene up regulating, blood

Walden Pond

vessel health and the improvement of lipids and diabetes. It turns out however, that grape juice does NOT contain the same amount of Resveratrol which has something to do with the alco-

1.

Located in a beautiful, remote forest, it conjures up the feelings of solitude and restfulness. Henry David Thoreau lived there until he died at the age of 45 and you would have thought that he would

have lived longer because of the stress free environment. Recent studies however, at the University of North Carolina have shown that isolation raised C-reactive blood levels, which is a measure in inflammation along with hypertension and obesity. Maybe it’s the fear of being eaten by a bear but there is clear evidence now that an isolated personality is not a good one and it starts at an early age (adolescent).

14 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

hol in the wine, its processing and the skin of the grape which is part of wine making. So I have to admit that I was wrong (so much for common sense) but at least I admit my mistakes. I think the last one was around the Nixon Era!

The Common Sense of Common Sense

3.

Just like the C.I.A. there are no coincidences and don’t take anything for granted, because isolation is not good for health and grape fruit juice is not as good for you as red wine. It’s that simple!

The Common Sense of Common Sense – The Sad Facts I guess they were honest mistakes and partially derived from existing medical knowledge but that jump to reality can be a risky one.

Just think of how much more beautiful literature Thoreau could have written if he lived longer with friends and drinking red wine while giving the grape juice to the ducks!

Dr. David L Vastola runs a private practice in Palm Beach, Florida, specializing in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, 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. Dr. Vastola also has an extensive media experience as a medical and nutrition expert on WJNO Radio, Fox News and CBS 12 News in Florida. His new book Fountain of Youth: Nutritional Therapies (Carrel Books/Skyhorse Publishing) is due for release in July 2015.

Dr. David L Vastola MONTHLY ‘TIPS’ COLUMN Website: www.yourgoodhealthfl.com/dr-david-vastola/

Brought to you by:

Twitter: @DrDavidVastola Facebook: Dr David L Vastola Photo Credits: Dr. David L Vastola - All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 15

st patrick’s day food ideas St. Patrick’s Day parties usually evoke images of green beer, corned

Shamrock Chips Made From Spinach Tortillas

beef, cabbage, and some sort of dessert colored green with food coloring. If you are watching your weight, St. Patrick’s Day parties

Using a cookie cutter in the shape of a shamrock, cut out festive

don’t usually offer the best in low calorie or nutritious food choices.

shapes from whole spinach tortillas or sandwich wraps. Bake in

Here are a few ideas for nutritious, delicious, and appetizing St.

the oven at 400 for 5-7 minutes or until crisp. Serve with pot of

Patrick’s Day party foods you can feel good about serving and eating.

gold cheesy dip.

5 Simple & Healthy Ideas Fresh Fruit Rainbow Arrange fruits such as red grapes, green grapes, mandarin oranges, strawberries, blueberries, or chunks of melon into a rainbow shape.

A fresh fruit platter with the Luck of the Irish.

Miniature Spinach Quiche Using a basic spinach quiche recipe of frozen spinach, eggs, milk, and Swiss cheese. Make mini-quiches perfect for finger foods at a party. For an easy crust, use Phyllo dough or crescent rolls.

Guacamole Deviled Eggs Green Bell Peppers As Shamrocks Sort of along the lines of Green Eggs and Ham, but with a St. Thinly slice a whole bell pepper cross wise. Save a few slices to cut

Patrick’s Day flair. Just add some avocado to a basic deviled egg

into stems. Serve with a low fat dip made from Greek yogurt.

recipe and you have a high-protein, low sugar, low carb green party food.

16 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

all hands on deck le’ a n i F e r u t a e F

sierra alston Interview

MONTHLY FEATURE

There have been countless reality shows that featured many beautiful women. Many have seen them engaged in all types of outlandish behav-

iour. Never a step forward, always descending to lower and lower depths.

We have never seen anyone remove themselves from the madness, until now. On the recent VH1 reality show “She Got Game” which featured rapper The Game searching among a bevy of beauties looking for love, one young lady decided to eliminate herself and walked off the show! Let’s meet Sierra Alston!

My name is Sierra Alston and before “She’s Got Game” I was a trophy wife to the top African-American surgeon in Las Vegas. We stayed married for about 3 ½ years and when we decided to part ways I decided to become a writer… a blog writer. I also work for a software development company but once I got on the show and the show ended I started to discover other skills that I have such as the “Eye

emotional writing so whatever I go through I just kind of build off of that. I don’t do any more business writing. I do more emotional writing now. Like my quotes, I kind of want to brand myself as a Marilyn Monroe. When you think of her you think of things she said. So when you think of me, I want you think of things I said, that you could kind of relate to.

When it came to the show “The Game” did you have a real interest in him or was this just part of the show script that you had to follow or flow with and go with whatever was going?

Well I would say the show definitely was not scripted. This was not your typical VH1 show… the emotions were definitely real. I went on the show basically optimistic. I was open minded. I wanted something different than what I was used to or what I had in the past and I knew that he was a lot different than the last guy I dated. So I definitely went in just hoping for the best but also if it didn’t work out I would still gain. I wasn’t going to leave empty handed. The world would still know who

Candy Workout Course” that I take around certain

Sierra Alston is and it gave me an opportunity to kind of

states. I’m an actress, writing a book, as well as, will

display to everyone who I am and what I’m about and

have a lingerie line coming out soon.

that I’m not your typical drama reality star. I did go on the show looking for love I guess you could say but more

Okay wow, you got a whole lot going on but you

so I wanted a good friend and that’s what you have to

started all that off by saying that you were a trophy

be first and I saw some things in him that I thought was

wife, did I hear you right?

good but I also saw some things in him that I thought

Yeah you did, I was, past tense, I was.

was just not for me. So I went on there looking for love but it is what it is.

Why do you describe in that way?

Well if you ask him, he provided me with a lifestyle that most 23 year old and 24/25 year olds did not have so at the end of the day, I mean it is what it is. I was a trophy wife, he basically took care of me, he provided me with whatever my heart desired and I didn’t have to work. So I basically lived through him and basically he validated me if that makes sense.

I’m sure that was you know a series of experiences in their own right, after the marriage dissolved and you said you went on to find some of the other things that you are into now… You also said that you’re a writer, what type of material do you write?

Well prior to the show our neighbours hired me as a consultant as well as their blog writer because they own a software development company. So

Well you know that’s the way the ball bounces, that’s a good intent.

Are there any other side endeavours that you have that we have to look out for?

I’ve been dancing all my life. Ballet, tap, modern, hip-hop. Basically I’ve always took a sensual dance course for multiple years and so I decided to do my own traveling sensual dance course which would teach you the art of sensual dancing. This also enhances relationships. I would go from state to state and different women sign up. My last class was sold out in Washington, DC. I’m doing a fitness brand called “Eye Candy Workout”. I’m also coming out with a YouTube channel, online virtual course, a DVD and an app. So that’s just that one thing.

basically I just did all the blog writing for the client to keep them on the front page of Google and I also did ghost writing but as of now I do more

(Continued Page 20)

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 17

P

Pelugion

elugion are a three piece hard rock / metal band

This is only the beginning for Pelugion. They are now breaking

from Coventry, England. Influenced predominantly

the boundaries toward becoming an international band thanks to

by heavier bands both old and new.

worldwide radio airplay.

Andy Sweeney, John Pittaway and Brandon Balou first met in col-

Pelugion describe their main influences as Black Sabbath, Metallica,

lege September 2012 whilst studying music performance. Starting

Megadeth, Soundgarden, Alterbridge, Black Label Society, Kyuss &

off at the college rehearsal rooms and playing Metallica and Black

Down.

Sabbath covers at a couple of college gigs, it wasn’t long before college was over, new rehearsal rooms were found, their first origi-

Contact Information

nal song was written and Pelugion was born.

Website: www.Pelugion.com Since the beginnings of the band, Pelugion have gigged heavily

Soundcloud: @Pelugion

around England with an arsenal of original songs, won a slot play-

Facebook/Twitter: Pelugion

ing the UK’s biggest family festival, inked a management deal with UK based FATangel Management and released a lyric video.

Pelugion are a band gaining national recognition for their energetic live performance and massive sound.

Photography: Stagedive Photography Andy Sweeney – Vocals / Bass John Pittaway - Guitar Brandon Balou - Drums

The band’s latest endeavour is their single ‘Bide My Time’ which is about to be released on March 25, 2016.

The single has been produced, mixed and mastered at Woodworm Studios by Mike Exeter who has worked with such legends as Black Sabbath, Dio and Judas Priest.

‘Bide My Time’ is a story about learning to deal with regret.

Although it may seem like you should have let go of that ex’s hold on you sooner, you’re almost glad in a way that you waited this long because how else can you appreciate the good things without having experienced the bad. Now the ex has gone, you know you can

MARCH 25th - ‘Bide My Time’ will be released!

bide your time, waiting for something better to come along... and maybe waiting for karma too.

All Rights Reserved 18 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

Now in Memphis, home of STAX and other notable musicians, you’ll find JCraig committed and working diligently on his many projects.

Music is all over him. It’s in his head, hands, and feet. In a dimly lit studio, it’s electrifying and amazing to see J do what he does with ease and perfection. He’s a quiet storm stirring up some southern soul funk. But, don’t limit him. This accomplished songwriter will astonish you with sensually charming lyrics, melodically fascinate you with an edgy rock melody, and bombshell you with some smooth rap.

JCraig JCraig is an emerging force on the music entertainment landscape, launching out of total obscurity after overcoming many of life’s tragedies and transforming himself round by round into a reliable singer, songwriter, and producer.

After serving his country in the armed forces, JCraig has emerged simply as an artist with a soulful niche, and he knows how to work it.

O’ no, J’s not wasting any time with his music production.

Like a whirlwind, he’s plowing forward in a league of his own and seems to be transcending time and making thunderous noise as he pursues his musical ambitions. Yes, he’s all in.

This PK was the youngest boy of five, born to a Bishop. From the earliest moments, he was singing and playing guitar in the church. Soon, he became an accomplished musician.

Family and peers in New York knew that J was a gifted writer and musician. Oftentimes, they would par ooze the musical credits looking for his name. Well, here he is stamping out one hit after another.

Website: www.iamjcraig.com Twitter: @IamJCraig | Facebook: IamJCraig Instagram: 1JCraig itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-want-your-body/id989302232 All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 19

ALL HANDS ON DECK

(Continued)

I’ve been working with an acting coach. I’ve also been back and forth to

him for sexual harassment on the show, how do you feel about that?

Hollywood, talking to A-list actors, and things like that trying to enhance my

Okay, so basically I’ll keep that brief but I do have my feelings towards it.

acting career, so you’ll see me on the big screen soon.

Basically Priscilla she…from what I’ve seen, from what she displayed in front of me, she does like attention and if you don’t give her attention then she kind

I have a lingerie line coming out too because I do believe that everyone is

of just…it’s kind of you’re with her or you’re against her and I also feel that he

sexy. I will also have a fitness pro line coming out, it’s kind of a correlation to

basically…he is an aggressive man but I don’t think that he touched her where

the actual workout and I’m writing a book with all my quotes in it. It would

as though she had to sue him.

kind of tell my life story because I do have a lot to tell and a lot of people look at me and just think that things are so easy because I am attractive. I

Obviously, if you look at me, he would never think that’s okay with me. I don’t

don’t want people to feel like I’ve never been through anything because that’s

know if she incited it. I don’t know if they may have had a couple of drinks

the way the show had portrayed me to be; this perfect woman or this woman

and it went there, and then she didn’t like the results afterwards. That maybe

that doesn’t make mistakes and I’ve made plenty of mistakes and I do have

he was on other girls and didn’t pay her any more attention. I wasn’t there to

skeletons in my closet which will be revealed in my book.

really know what went down but at the end of the day, I do know the characteristics of each person. I do know Priscilla likes attention and I also know that

How did you actually get chosen for the show because the one thing that

he is aggressive. I will just say I don’t believe that he did it where it harmed

I saw that was a little different was that all of the young ladies that were

her. He may have done it playfully and she may have kind of invited it. I mean

on the show were picked by somebody else, so who picked you?

who goes walking around in their underwear anyway so…

Keyshia Cole picked me. So basically all the girls got chosen by one of his very good celebrity friends and she chose me because she’s more like my mentor

I do want to say this… I don’t want the show to define me at all. I don’t want

and a confidant for me. She chose me and thought it would be something

you to think of me as Sierra from “She’s Got Game”. That’s just one thing I did

good for me due to being the opposite of the last relationship I’ve been in.

at a moment in time of my life and now I’ve moved on to something else. I don’t just want to be labelled as your normal reality star.

I want to talk to you about, about Priscilla. So I know you guys have signed a non-disclosure form.

Are you looking forward to doing some appearances, as well as, hosting or

We do, but what do you want to know?

other appearances on TV?

The 10 million dollar lawsuit that she has against Game on the show

As far as appearances, I’ve done a few so far however, I don’t want to do that

about sexual harassment. The show is about sex… you know what I’m say-

many because in Hollywood when you’re trying to be a successful actor they

ing, you see the kissing, hugging, etc.

don’t really want to see that you’re hosting night clubs all the time. So it’s kind

Hold on, hold on there. The show is not about sex, the show is about him basi-

of like you kind of have to choose which one you want to do. Do you want to

cally trying to find a woman that he can do those things with, you never saw

be a party girl or you kind of want to be in the movies. So I definitely won’t

me kissing and hugging and loving…you never saw me doing that.

be doing that much hosting.

No not you… but the other girls… in my opinion the show is about sex. At the end of the day you got to be 100% on everything. So it’s a sexy show…

Interview conducted and Written by DJ Sincere

it’s about sex. I didn’t see you doing those things. I thought you were han-

With Contributions by Mr. Raaw and Readdy

dling your business. So the 10 million dollar lawsuit that she has against

Twitter: @Drtybsmnt | Facebook (MultiMedia) /Drtybsmnt

20 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

WORMBASS F

rom gracing the cover of French Vogue to touring the

In 2008, Wormbass acquired his his first #1 hit in Europe after producing

world over, Delroy “Wormbass” Nevin has had the sort of

a remake of Michael Rose’s Party In Session.

career most aspiring artists dream of having.

From touring to managing, and being a father of four, Wormbass has often

After co-founding and leading the legendary Blaze Band to fame in the

had to postpone completion of his own projects, including his album. That

nineties, a self-taught bassist, “Worm” became a highly sought after musi-

is until now.

cal director, having helped to shape the career of Grammy Award winner and dancehall superstar, Beenie Man. He’s also musically directed Juno

Fast forward to 2011 as Wormbass is unleashed. His first single, Bring

Award winner Lenn Hammond, Lutan Fyah, and Prophecy.

Back the Paradise, is a fast paced reggae infused dance track that will rock nightclubs from Kingston to Amsterdam, Miami to Tokyo, New York

A humble and renowned musician, Wormbass has played countless

to Johannesburg; Toronto to Taranto, Alaska to Australia and everywhere

basslines on stages across the globe and in recording studios from

in between.

Kingston, Jamaica to Los Angeles, California, London, England and Toronto, Canada to name a few. He has toured with and produced for the likes of

Creating his debut album and preparing for its worldwide release,

Sean Paul, Barrington Levy, Lady Saw, Tanya Stephens, T.O.K. and Chaka

Wormbass is focused and ready to fulfill his destiny, as this journey is only

Demus & Pliers. For the latter, he also produced their Back Off The Wall

just beginning.

album in 2007 during a 3 year tenure with the Canadian based label, Explorer Recording Company.

While with Explorer, Wormbass also produced the album It’s My Time by Everton Blender as well as multiple rhythms including Girls Gone Wild, Jealous Eyes and Bad Day. In addition, Wormbass is credited on both multiple award winning, self-titled, debut albums by Juno winners Blessed and Lenn Hammond.

Contact Information: In 2007, Wormbass co-wrote and co-produced the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s Official Tribute Song “Chance” to slain, South

Twitter: @Blackbirdmelody

African Reggae star, Lucky Dube.

Facebook: Blackbirdmelody All Rights Reserved BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 21

Monthly inspiration A

lot of people are so unhappy because they are trying too hard to gain the acceptance and approval of certain people. They try to ‘fit’ into their expectations thinking that will help, but sadly it doesn’t no matter what you do.

those who look down on you or make you feel worthless. Don’t be intimidated by them. You are special, you are loved. Just keep your eyes focused on God. Be Inspired! With Love, Eloho

@Elohoefemuai | Facebook: Elohosmusic | www.elohoefemuai.co.uk

The truth is that these certain people you are seeking approval from can never give you the approval because they are limited and do not have the capacity. The only person who has the capacity to approve and validate you is God. Seek His approval, seek His validation, seek His commendation not man’s and He will bring people around you, who will value you and accept you for who you are I want you to know that God values you. He loves you and is mindful of you. Do not worry about

22 • BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com

All Rights Reserved

A simple family gathering around the table may have

more benefits than you think! Bring the family in to Juniper On Water to enjoy a midday brunch overlooking the water, or a relaxing dinner in the beautiful Mediterranean inspired dining room.

In today’s households where both parents go to work and kids have busy schedules with school, homework and an array of afternoon activities, finding time for a gathering at the table seems all but impossible. Yet, studies have shown time and again that eating together has multiple benefits for everyone involved, but especially for children, and not only for nutritional purposes but in many other aspects as well.

After many years of experience in the hospitality field, Scott and Sho found themselves opening a restaurant to call their very own. “It really helps you learn when you start at the very bottom and learn from both the good and bad experiences,” says Scott.

The duo quickly crafted the idea and space for Juniper On The Water, and after 18 months of renovation, the restaurant opened its doors, emitting a warm and welcoming atmosphere to all. Juniper has a one-of-a-kind understated elegance, quite different from any other restaurant in the South Florida area. Besides the magnificent view, its upscale, Mediterranean influence adds the right touch of refinement, while its beach-like feel instantly helps diners feel at ease.

According to a number of reports issued by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University (CASA), children who eat at least five times a week with their family are at lower risk of developing poor eating habits, weight problems or alcohol and substance dependencies, and tend to perform better academically than their peers who frequently eat alone or away from home, according to an article from the Huffington post.

More about Juniper On The Water: About a year ago, owners Scott, Sho and Chris put their heads together and transformed an industry passion into reality. Juniper, meaning strength and “to bloom or flourish”, symbolizes the vision, heart and culinary passion combined by the owners.

Scott and Sho learned every aspect of the business by working their way up through all areas of the restaurant industry.

Website: www.JuniperOnTheWater.com All Rights Reserved

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 23

Tessanne chin

BWD Magazine • www.bwdmagazine.com • 24