Entertainment Issue

Music can change The WORLD

CHECK OUT NEW HOTTEST ARTIST RAYVEN JUSTICE

TROOP

90's Platinum Selling R&B Group

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Keisha Evins Contributing Writer

Troop

Thanks for interviewing with us. What have you guys been up too?

Steve: We’ve been on the road doing a lot of touring for the past year and a half, almost two years. We’ve released a few compilations with new music on it but haven’t really promoted any one song due to all the traveling. Unfortunately, we also lost one group

member. We lost Reggie. We’ve been dealing with that. We’re gearing up to do a new album. We’ve released “The Slow Songs”, “Deepa (Revisited)”, and “The Baby Makers”. We’ve got several compilations with new music that is available right now. Me and Allen re-did and released “The Lady in My Life.” That is Michael Jackson’s wonderful record.

Allen: We also have some solo music out there as well. I did the song “Quarantine”, and it did well. It was in the top 9 and sold out in the United States.

What do you think is missing in today’s music?

Steve: Love.

Allen: I agree with Steve. The love and

passion seem to be missing.

Steve: It seems everyone is chasing Hip Hop. I’m not ignoring artists such as Lucky Day, Jazmine Sullivan, H.E.R., and SZA that are doing today’s R&B. I think it’s fine and I love it. Music has always been a medicine for us. I think that needs to come back around and keep the GOD value in it.

Can we expect a book?

Steve: Yes, I am finishing my manuscript for my autobiography and that will be done by the summer. I also have a couple of films out. We did a documentary called “Tales of a Boy Band.” It’s a five-episode series about our life together on Tubi and I also have an eight-episode series called “Day Ones” that is on Tubi as well. Allen McNeill has music in it as well. We’ve been working.

How did Troop come together as a group?

Steve: Well, it started in Pasadena, CA in 1984. Rodney and Reggie were on a lip sync tv show called “Putting on the Hits” and they won first place. They went on to compete further for another grand prize or something. A producer saw the show and wanted to know if they were a real singing group. I had known Rodney since Jr High, so he knew that I was a singer and dancer. Once the producer contacted him, Rodney came to me and asked if I wanted to be in the group. Shortly after, I met Allen and he got into the group. I knew Jon Jon from the boys’ club as a kid and he saw that we were in the group and so then he joined. That’s how it all started.

When did you guys know that it was official, and you had made it? Allen: I think for me personally, it was when we got the call to do a promo tour in Japan.

Steve: The day when they played our song ‘Mamacita’ on the radio. That day, to me, meant that we had a lot of potential.

What maintained the cohesiveness that pulled and kept you guys together?

Steve: We definitely had our falling outs like any other group but what stood the test of time was the unconditional factor that we came here to get. That at the end of the day, that person is who they are just as I am who I am.

Allen: That’s the magical thing about Troop. When we all committed and had that meeting and knew which way we wanted to go, we kind of all knew what it was going to take.

What is one memorable moment you would like to share?

Steve: One memorable moment for me was when we performed with Hammer in LA, in our hometown, and all those celebrities and everyone came out to see us.

Allen: One of mine is when we first began to think we were doing something big, and we were in Wisconsin. We went to the mall and the five of us were just shopping and people started to notice us. The whole mall got shut down and we couldn’t even get in the limo. It was chaotic with the sea of people out there. That was a very memorable moment.

What is something you would tell your younger self?

Steve: Take your business seriously right now today. Stay focused and stay at home, even while you’re having hits. Continue to learn and grow.

Allen: Don’t be afraid to seek guidance and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to go seek out the correct answers. Don’t be afraid to support yourself financially while you are pursing your dreams and your opportunity.

If you could trade places with one person for one day, who would you choose and why?

Allen: I would choose to just stay me. You never know what another person has going on lol. It may look nice and green, but you never know lol.

Steve: I would say Michael Jackson. Just being Mike for one day right before he goes on stage for a concert, and I could just be him one time. In front of a sea of people screaming, crying, and singing the songs.

Where is one place you would like to perform at?

Steve: South Africa

Allen: Egypt

Is there anything you would like to share with your fans?

Steve: Just a reminder that they can find my documentaries streaming on Tubi. I also have a few solo albums.

Allen: Visit the website www.67kings. com. Look out for the new album “Loving Me” by Allen McNeill.

Where can everyone follow you?

Steve: Instagram: @officialtroop2023

Allen: Just google my name, Allen McNeill, and everything will come up. Also, www.allenmcneillmusic.com

The roses

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

Black Rose: I am Black Rose, a member of The Roses. And I am from Youngstown OH, I am a producer, singer-songwriter whose produced with some of the likes of Kingston and Jodeci. I’m still also a member of the group LeVert, I became a member after Gerald’s passing. Cowboys’ fans to the heart, so yeah, that’s me!

Young Rose: And I am Young Rose. I’m more of a sports guy. So, I played sports all my life. I played at the University of Toledo and Youngstown State, but I’m from Youngstown, OH, as well. I have been around music all my life, but uh, I started recording about 14 or 15 years old.

Well, how did you come up with the name. Where did the name “The Roses” come from?

Black Rose: Well, it came from our first name. Our first name is Roosevelt, and everybody always calls me Rose and calls him Rose. My dad’s name is Roosevelt. I am a junior and he is the third. That is where the name came from. Now we have the 4th also.

Tell me what’s some of your goals you want to accomplish this year for 2023?

Black Rose: Well, one of the goals is just to get more music out here this year. Get a full album out.

We do have a single out right now, but we just want to further our career as a father and son tag team Duo. I mean, Gerald and Eddie were a duo, they did a few songs together, but we really trying to be a father son group. The goal is to just bless the world with new and old R&B sound mixed together. We got that baby making music coming back!

Young Rose: One goal is being more on social media, getting more people to hear our music just getting out there and become one of the best Father, son duos. Just more marketing.

Let’s talk about your new single, and the motivation behind it.

Young Rose: Our new single “Pick up the phone” is a single everybody can relate to. We were not supposed to use this one but we kept replaying it and was like this could be the one. So, we just got together and said let’s do it.

Black Rose: Like you said, everybody can relate to it, especially guys. Sometimes they get the wrong idea about what they may have seen or heard. Not saying that females are always wrong, but this particular time she was wrong, and now she won’t pick up the phone so I can explain. That sums it up.

What are some of the challenges y’all go through working together as a father/son duo?

Young Rose: Honestly, I don’t really think there are any challenges cause we are a father and son that actually grew up together. We do have a great bond, clown around all day, but when it’s time to get the job done we both work hard. I would say it’s pretty easy. I know what he likes. He knows what I like? We pretty much sound the same. Even though, he’s a lot more polished than I am.

Black Rose: It’s a great thing working together with my son because I’m experienced, so it’s easy. He’s really been watching since he was a young kid. He was in California with me when I produced for KC and JoJo. So, he watched when I recorded with LeVert, with Mark Gordon, He was right there for all of that, and that’s actually the first time he got on the microphone. He did Sean Levert’s part. He has helped me on so many projects and it’s so easy with us. I see so much of myself in him.

What do you think is missing in today’s music?

Black Rose: To me, what’s missing is substance. It’s feelings, it’s emotion that’s what’s missing in the music. Some of this R&B music today is missing the substance. I’m not knocking them at all. I’m just saying I think people don’t put in enough thought into what they do anymore. They just do the first thing that come to their mind. They don’t really cook

it up any more like they used to. It’s like microwaved. They just put it in the microwave and it’s cool.

Young Rose: I would say the same thing. It’s a lot of repetition out here, I would say everything pretty much stays the same. It got the same flow; it got the same feel. It’s not a lot of difference. You got Chris Brown and Usher. They’ve been the guys for a while. Everybody else pretty much sounds the same to me. It’s just a lot of repetition but It’s definitely missing that old school feel though.

Black Rose: There’s been some real singers too, like Jasmine Sullivan, H.E.R, SZA, and Jhene to me the female side is better than the male side of R&B right now. They are doing more singing nowadays than the fellas.

Where can the readers follow you?

Black Rose: @BlaqRoseIAm on IG and you can get our music online on any digital platform.

Young Rose: On IG, @Onli Rose 3. On Facebook you can just find me as Roosevelt Griffin.

rude Boys

Tell Everyone who you are and where you from.

Keni Myles: I’m Keni Myles of The Rude Boys, I’m from Indianapolis IN.

G. Labeaud: I am G. Labeaud from New Orleans, LA by way of Indianapolis, IN, also So that’s my second home. We’re in Georgia now!

Joe Little III: My name is Joe Little III, I am from Cleveland, OH the best place. The best place in the nation.

Let’s talk a little bit about your journey and how y’all got to where y’all are today.

Joe Little III: The Rude Boys first started in 1990, Gerald LeVert discovered us, of course, and that is what happened. We met Gerald LeVert in a nightclub. One of the other singers, Buddy Banks, and I was just sitting in doing a session with a lady named Evelyn Wright, who I used to do jazz sets with at a local nightclub. It was a lovely place, and you know one night I told Buddy, let’s go up to the club and

sing with Evelyn and we sang that night and as we were singing, I saw Gerald standing on the stairs. I said Gerald, why don’t you come up here and sing with us, he looked like ahhhh, like he didn’t want to come up there, but he did come up there, thank God he did because we had a very explosive performance and later

on that night Gerald was like man y’all are amazing. He said I want to work with you guys and the rest is history.

Tell us how did the great Rude Boys come together to begin with?

Joe Little III: The Rude Boys originally started in 1988 with me and Buddy Banks, who has passed away. After the Gospel group POWER, the first Rude Boys was Buddy, Jeff Rozier, Marc Jenkins and myself, then we converted to a band which was reconstructed with Rick Scovil on drums, Kyle Morris on Bass, Troy Henderson on keyboards, Larry Marcus on guitar and singers Melvin Sephus, Buddy Banks and myself. Buddy named the group Rude Boys. The name Rude Boys came from a button on Prince’s jacket on the controversy album. He had a round button that said rude boy. Buddy being a great major fan of Prince, which a lot of us were back then. It was either Michael Jackson or Prince from the 80s. Buddy just felt like we needed to start a group called the Rude Boys. At that time, I was like, OK well, whatever because I was young. I was still in high school coming out. We went around local places in Cleveland and all through Ohio “gigging,” and just doing our thing. When we met Gerald, we were a full group. Gerald only met me

and buddy, and he was only interested honestly in me and Buddy. We had to at least bring our other two members, Melvin and Larry, and you know we came together. I convinced Gerald to put them in the group and so that’s what the Rude Boys did before we connected with Gerald. We did win a big competition called the Battle of the Bands in Ohio. We were the number one band and I think the only reason we won that night was because Larry set his guitar on fire onstage. Everybody remembers that in Cleveland. So, we were trying to make a name for ourselves in Ohio, in northeastern Ohio area and so that’s “The Rude Boys” before the rude boys.

What do you think made Gerald so great in that vein to be able to continue that legacy with other groups and artists?

Joe Little III: Gerald was an incredibly young man when he encountered us. At that time, I was like 21. So, at the time when Written

All Over Your Face came out, I was like 23 and Gerald was only two years older than that. So, we were all young. Gerald was far beyond his years within his maturity he was a very mature young man. He was a great leader. This guy was amazing and the work ethic that he had for the music game. He just really wanted to put Cleveland on the map, and we were his first project and as we went on he pulled in Men At Large of course, which you know he was successful with us because our first album spawned a smash single which was Written All Over Your Face, on the billboards and won R&B song of the year, and then we followed up with another number one with Are You Lonely, so therefore our first album, a rookie album, scored very well. Two number one hits. A hit and the award.

Gerald and I teamed up as writing partners and wrote a song for Men at Large called "So Alone"; I did a lot of backgrounds on mostly the whole album. "So Alone" went #2 on the

Billboard charts and therefore we’re still winning. You know, back in the day if you get on the Billboard charts alone you are winning. So, then we continued to go further, and we added a group called 1 of The Girls, which were signed to Elektra, our other girls group "Drama" we signed with Jam and Lewis. That didn’t go too well, but it was still the effort that was being put out and people’s names getting on the map. So, you figure if you are coming out on a national level and your video is on BET at that time you’ve made it! We continued to work on other groups, but those were the groups from Cleveland that he put on a national level and that he made national artists. Yeah, so that was Trevel Productions, which is LeVert spelled backwards.

What has it been like to make your way through the industry and be aligned within such an illustrious company?

G. Labeaud: I started when I was 14, I started singing and it was my first-time recording. My brother and I started a group called the LaBeaud Brothers. It was just the two of us. We were in high school, and we joined with a couple of our friends that were doing the same thing we were doing, Chris Kelly and Richard Chapman had joined and we formed a group called The Fellas. My partner David Morris also known as “D Love” was signed to LaFace Records and Rude Boys was performing in Indianapolis IN the year the Black Expo and he snuck us behind stage and then introduce us to Buddy Banks from the Rude Boys, we end up singing a song a cappella then sang that same song on national television that day at the Miss Black America pageant and Buddy gave me his phone number, we went to the hotel that same day and met Joe and the rest is history!

Where can the readers follow you?

Everyone can follow us @therealrudeboys

STYLE OF SELF LOVE

Tell everyone who you are and where you are from?.

I go by the name of Rayven Justice, a singer-songwriter from Oakland, CA.

Let’s talk about your single and the motivation behind it. All right, well I just dropped my new single Cheated. The album was called Ray. The single basically is just a man’s

point of view of being cheated on. I feel like no guy had really spoken on our side of the story when it comes to this scenario, and I just wanted to articulate that myself. Check out the video! I just felt like it was a strong message to put out. It’s something that men don’t even like talking about. It’s uncomfortable to talk about, but I feel like it’s a gem! I got a lot of positive feedback.

Who came up with the concept for the video?

My videographer and I were in Vegas. We were riding and I played him the song. We just started plotting, throwing ideas out, we both came up with ideas at the same time, or he passed some crazy ideas to me I never thought about doing, like I’m the victim in the video. I’m always

being the guy that’s, you know “the guy,” that gets the girl. He was like you should reverse that idea where you’ll be the one that’s getting hurt. I’ve also had dreams of being an actor, so I was just like that would be cool to just touch bases on my acting side. We shot the video in Los Angeles; it was a whole motion.

What do you think is missing in today’s music?

I listen to a lot of 90s R&B, that’s what helps me with my music today. I pull from that stuff all the time. I just study that era as far as music and try to pull from it and put that into what I’m doing today. I just heard some of the old school Usher songs and watched the videos and I’m like we don’t even make songs like this anymore! We don’t even make videos like this, so you know it was just my idea of bringing that style back. So, people could see something refreshing and I want to continue doing that. I feel like that’s something that’s missing out of the new generation of music right now.

Who are some of your influences?

Usher, Avant, Donell Jones, Pretty Ricky as a group, Pleasure P, Chris

Brown of course. There’s been so many got to include John B. Is just so many people that had hits in the 90’s and the early 2000s.

So, all I do is just get on Apple Music and type in 90s R&B essentials and just let it play. If I hear something that catches my ear while I’m studying it, why do I like this song? I ask myself questions all the time, every time I hear a song. I might think the beat is fire, or the concept is cool. It may have a tempo to make me want to dance. So, I put all those different ideas into my music. I got the 90s as a footprint. It’s like a big blueprint that I just observe and study from to help with my sound today. I try to find a balance of both worlds from then and now. It’s like trap R&B of the 90s that R&B is completely different from the R&B sound today. So, I try to find a meeting ground for both styles of music.

Why do you think that people are asking for that old R&B sound to come back?

I just feel like everything has its turn. Four years ago, it was all about R&B, whoever was singing it was our time to shine. Cats like Adrian Marcel and a few other people. There was a whole R&B rant over the mustard beats. So, I felt like we had our time, then it went back to the rappers. Now it’s coming back to our team. We get bored over time, as soon as we get burned out, we want the old thing back, we just want something different to listen to. It’s always going to rotate. It’s slowly coming back to the singers. I just feel like everybody needs a little love in music now. We’ve been facing so many murders as far as artists are concerned. All types of senseless gun violence and I just feel like people just need something to feel good, some feel good music. We got to get love back, 90s R&B gave us that. That soul, that’s why I always pay attention to the 90s. I got to have that soul in my

music. So, you feel the music you’re not just hearing it. I think that’s what we all need.

Where can they find you as far as listening to your music or checking you out on social media?

Everything is my name Rayven Justice, on all social media. My music is everywhere.

dJ Bro-raBB

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

My Name Is DJ BRO-RABB “MR LAWD HAVE MERCY” I’m A Professional Touring, Show, Radio, Party DJ.

What made you want to be a DJ?

I’ve always had a fascination for MUSIC & RECORDS. My mom had ALL the latest records in the house. She used to beat my a-- for messing up her records (LOL) but once she taught me how to play them, it was on & poppin!! Around 8 years old, my mom threw a Christmas party at the beauty salon she worked at for the kids of her closest friends. My mom’s best friend two sons were DJs... I remember they had all the crates of records & they had two record players (that’s what I called them at the time) & this little thing between the record players (learned later that it was called a MIXER). They were going back & forth, left to right between the record players that I learned were called TURNTABLES. Mixing the music with no breaks. One song would mix right into the next song! I thought it was the most fascinating thing I’d ever seen & heard! That night at 8 years old, I caught the DJ bug.

How did you get the name “MR LAWD HAVE MERCY”?

Well, this goes back to the days of MYSPACE (Lol). I DJ’d a party & at the end of the night a lady friend was sitting in a chair saying “LORD HAVE MERCY, LORD HAVE MERCY” while she was rubbing her feet (Lol) I asked

was she ok. She said “YES, LORD HAVE MERCY I’M FINE, YOU ROCKED THIS JOINT!”

I was feeling pretty good so on MYSPACE as a joke I typed MR LORD HAVE MERCY next to my name on my page. She inboxed me & said change it to MR LAWD HAVE MERCY... It caught on so I kept it (Lol).

Who do you consider to be a DJ legend?

OMG there are so many to name & for so many different reasons! I’m just going to name a load of them! KOOL HERC, GRANDMASTER FLASH, GRANDMASTER FLOWERS, PETE DJ JONES, DJ BREAKOUT, GRANDWIZARD THEADORE, DJ RED ALERT, GRANDMIXER DST, KID CAPRI, JAZZY JEFF, CASH MONEY, TAT MONEY, DJ SCRATCH, DJ ROC RAIDER, LARRY LEVAN & so many others! SALUTE TO THEM ALL!

What Differentiates you from the other DJs?

I research & study so much music. I love learning about different types of music and of course PRACTICE! Staying SHARP & TRUE to the craft & how “I” Do It.

How has your experience been being Kid “N” Play DJ?

I don’t even know where to begin! I’ve learned so much from them about music, stage, just life period. Being on stage with them is like living out a dream. I remember as a teenager watching the movie HOUSE PARTY, now djing for them, I’m part of the party (Lol) I love the work, I love the travel, I love THEM! My big brothers 4 Life!!

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

Can you tell us why Vinyl is still important.

I think VINYL will ALWAYS be important because it’s the ESSENCE & it’s THE FOUNDATION.. HIP HOP & DJing started with THE VINYL! Can’t erase that fact.

What are some goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

Continue to tour, continue to rock shows/stages. I would love to DJ on ROCK THE BELL XM (Lol) Overall continue to expand my brand!

I recently connected with a classmate that had a clothing line company called CAN INC. We have DJ BRORABB “MR LAWD HAVE MERCY” T-Shirts, Hoodies, Long Sleeved Shirts, etc... My merch is available at www.caninc2.com I also rock on 95.3FM THE BEAT in Raleigh NC every Monday at 5pm EST at www.953TheBeat.com

Where can the readers follow you?

Follow me on Instagram @djbrorabb & website: www.mixcloud.com/brorabb

Boss hippy

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

Boss Hippy. I’m a man of who believes you can achieve anything you see with the right amount of hard work and dedication. And a man

who understands that right amount is different for everyone. I produce, write and record music and films. I am also the CEO of Hustlemann Music Regime. Started 20 years ago who I was stationed overseas in the Army.

Who or what motivated you to be the man you are today?

I was born in Los Angeles and moved to Georgia when I was 11. In Cali I looked up to Robert Townsend, the Wayans family, Deion Sanders, Dr Dre, Ice Cube, Easy, The Who family tree of NWA as a whole. I like a lot of comedians for their commentary. I had seen how they were able to move crowds with just words, no music. Which always intrigued me. Eddie, Martin, Redd, Bernie. The Red Hot Chili Peppers were the first

Photos by: The Vantage of Smyrna, GA

musical act that really hypnotized me with the blend of words and music. I thought they were rappers at first. As a 2nd grader they just blew my mind musically. I’m used to hearing hip hop and old school soul growing up. Especially Pac. My father was a musician as well who spent time with The Whispers in their early stages. When I moved to Georgia, South Cobb, the Dungeon Family and Memphis music guided me thru middle and high school. And being in the Atlanta metro area, the city itself just took over me. Being creative was just a way of life. I was rapping in church with my homies from around the way and it was just a feeling being on stage. I was only 12, 13. Me and my partners Bryan and Desmond said this is what we were going to do. Dez had some success while I was away, and Bryan ended up going and graduating from Clark Atlanta. I went to the Army and the rest was history.

How was your experience being in the military and being overseas?

I thought it was a wrap for music. I went to basic at Ft Benning and AIT at Ft Gordon then Ft Bragg. I was sent to Bagram, Afghanistan almost a month later. It was surreal. Getting mortar attacks every night and seeing the people over there, both good and bad. Then I got sent to Germany when I got back and met my brothers who I started Hustlemann with. We were sent to Iraq a month later and we all thought it was over. The threat level was higher and we lost a few people in the first couple of months. My battle buddy Unkle Kobe got sent to a base where Gump was, and they found a way to record. They sent me the product and the program and we spent the next 6 months making about 50 mixtapes between the whole crew. We were able to put on performances over there in the MWR facility on base and made a couple newspapers. We made it back to Germany and continued recording and releasing until everyone’s time was up. It was hella fun then. We got in trouble, but we were able to make music and memories overseas. That’s a once in a lifetime

thing for people like us. Coming where we all come from. We had a bunch of soldiers an foreigners screaming HUSTLE UP!!!

chapter and brand everything together as AAUP. And I have artist from both Hustle UP in Unkle Kobe and AALIFE in Swish Casso and Big$$Time. And I’ve been developing my little cousin Poussey who is crazy lit. I’ve also been grooming my little brother and my son and daughter to be great artists if they choose to go that route.

How do you define your purpose?

Tell us about “AALIFE” and how it got started.

I eventually settled in Orlando after the military and I had a rhyme partner, A-Mega. We had a mutual friend MG who had a studio and a t shirt printing shop. One day we had a BBQ and everyone in attendance had some type of talent. We decided to bring everyone together and push as a full unit. The name AALIFE came from originally being called American Amsterdam. Lingo stamped it AALIFE. At our height we had about 10 artists. We were essentially working as a label, but we were so young in it we didn’t really get it down packed business wise. In our time together as a whole we performed all over Florida, DC and ATL. I never let the name die and carried it into the

It’s not as easy as saying “I’m here to make music!”. It’s more like I’m just being myself. My default mode is to create. Now more people are noticing this is more than music. I have the means ability to create almost anything from films, to poems, to books. The only limit is my interest level. We all want to be heard and be a part of something great. I’m a conduit for both. Around me you will be heard and seen. I’m an auteur. It makes it hard to be around me because I’m constantly creating something. I’m inspired by literally everything. A rock on the ground can consume my mind into creating a whole backstory for it that will take my mind into interesting places. That I then express however I feel most comfortable whether it be song or something else.

Let’s talk about the film “City Beautiful” and the motivation behind the film.

I’ve been writing scripts since I was 5. I wrote and directed a play in the 2nd grade. I wrote City Beautiful right

Photos by: The Vantage of Smyrna, GA

before we started AALIFE in 2012. I had a young artist named Bern and I was thinking marketing wise to put a small film and album around him. I based the story around our own experiences living in Orlando. We filmed a couple scene and realized we needed to learn some more. We tried a couple more times over the years but nothing solid. Then in 2019 my business partner Rashad came to me after he completed producing a tv series called “For A Fee” and asked if I was still interested in filming the script. I went to my homie T-Rexz who had been in Orlando longer than me to point me in the right direction in the city and we were blessed with our 2 main characters via Rexz. He pointed me towards Nate Bowers who played Joint because he was actually born and raised in the city, and it would be more authentic than having someone not originally from there to play that character. His name is Orlando. And the character of Ricky is actually played by Rexz nephew Markel Mitchell. He’s always been around soaking up game and from then he just seemed like the perfect Ricky. He also had just come home from the military not too long

before we were talking about filming. I was absolutely blessed with being able to get the cast I was able to get and really give this story that real Orlando feel. It’s more of a coming of age story than a “hood movie”. Ricky is trying to get out the lifestyle and Joint is trying to keep him “trapped”.

What are some goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

Confidently in 2023 I want to create something that’s going to last long past 2023. Humbly I want to establish me and my team as a force to be reckoned with creatively. I have rappers, painters, actors, graphic designers, dancers, singers, marketers, and filmmakers. AAUP is beyond just a music crew now. It’s a constant stream of Above Average Creations. I feel my new album is really good and I’m super excited to let the world hear it.

Tell us about your new album. My new album is called Honorable Discharge. It has a multitude of meanings. It’s me speaking from the standpoint of being a rapper in today’s climate and understanding that I have kids who are growing up in this climate.

It’s me catching myself and letting myself go at the same time realizing I can be a walking contradiction at times. Rap has been historically a young man’s sport, the sound of the youth. During my time in the military was something different for us when we first started opposed to those who are 20 years in. It’s something different for them. Not that they don’t still enjoy it but it’s just a different level or stage. That’s where I’m at musically. As a producer I just wanted to take my production to a level where it feels good. Not technically perfect, just more of a feel. A vibe. The subject matter on top of the banging beats is what makes it crazy to me. It’s an audacious album if I had to describe it in one word.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? Musically we are gearing up for another album from Poussey this year. Along with Book III of Unkle Kobe’s Pushing My Glasses UP series. We will be releasing a group album from HMR. Filmwise we will be releasing Thirst Trap starring Melody Casanova and Claud Livingston. And we will be releasing a Christmas movie on thanksgiving entitled All I Want for Christmas. Also starring Claude Livingston. We have several other films indifferent stages of production currently including a horror series that Thirst Trap is a part of. We have a clothing line called American Amsterdam that can be found online at americanamsterdam.com

Where can the readers follow you?

I can be followed online on Facebook @Jase.cook1 or Instagram @thabosshippy. We also have a website citybeautifulmovie.com to keep up with all things City Beautiful.

Liane chie rong

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

I’m Liane Ritchie-Strong aka Grown & Sexy. I’m the owner & operator of both GS Music & The Grown & Sexy Collection.

Who motivated you to be the person you are today?

My Maternal Grandmother, Marie Vega. She was way beyond her time. She was a business owner, independent, beautiful & full of life. She was known as the hair cutter to the Hollywood stars & because of that I was exposed to the industry at a young age. I always wanted to be a part of the industry because of her. She was the true definition of a queen.

How would you define your purpose?

My purpose is to live in love, light & be the best version of me.

Let’s talk about “GS Music” and how it got started.

I spent 10 years networking within the music industry with legendary artists such as Howard Hewett (Shalamar). Howard opened up a million doors for me just being around him. After multiple people telling me to start my own business, GS Music was established in 2016 providing network marketing/ PR/Promotions/Artist Relations/ Management & Bookings to the best in the Music Industry. The Grown & Sexy Collection is a clothing line which I launched in 2020.

What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders?

The best decision I ever made was to “DO ME” fearless & completely trusting in “SELF” take that leap of faith & remember this journey is “YOURS”.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

There’s lots in the works for this year. More live shows are definitely on the way. TROOP is currently touring. We have an upcoming show April 7th with Boyz II Men & Soul for Real. As well as RAYVEN JUSTICE who is also touring & has already released two new albums in 2023. Be on the lookout for both coming to a city near you.

What goals do you want to accomplish for 2023?

My goal is to keep elevating in both life & business on purpose. Everyday I’m learning something new & making moves to become a better version of me.

Can you tell us what or who has been your biggest inspiration?

I’m literally inspired everyday by something or someone. Life is truly beautiful when you live each day with purpose.

What has been one of the challenges you’ve had in your career?

The biggest challenge honestly is being a female & being independent. A lot of the men in the industry are either intimidated by me or they look down upon me. Very few applaud your accomplishments. I trust nobody but myself.

Where can the readers follow you?

I can be reached on any of the following platforms;

Instagram: @grownnsexymusic

Facebook: Liane Ritchie-Strong Website: www.grownnsexymusic.com.

Louie VaLenTino

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

My name is Louie Valentino. I am a music artist, songwriter, recording & mixing engineer, Actor, DJ & creative director.

What made you want to get into the music world?

I’ve been in the music industry since I was young. Growing up I always used to listen to music and thought it was so fascinating and knew that I wanted to do that when I got older.

How would you define your purpose?

I think my purpose in music is very top tier. I’m here to take the music to the next level. When it comes to mixing and mastering, I feel my job is to take what the artist gives me and turn it into a masterpiece. I want you to be able to listen to the record and visualize everything that you hear.

How do you measure success as an engineer?

Measuring success for me is simple. I just try to do better than what I did the day before. I have to stay on top of my game. I’m definitely not in competition with anyone but I know it’s a competitive industry and I have to go beyond the standards of what’s expected.

Where do you see yourself in three years?

In 3 years, I see myself having multiple gold & platinum plaques, a couple of Grammys, owning a studio & being a big music artist.

What has been one of your most memorable moments in your career?

One of the most memorable moments in my career is when I received my first gold plaque doing engineering. From that point on I just knew I was onto something & I couldn’t let up. I had to put my focus into it 110%.

Out of all the places you have been to, which place is your favorite?

Out of all the places I’ve been I would have to say Atlanta is definitely one of my favorites. The music culture is just so dope to me and the nightlife is a totally different experience.

If you could change anything in the music business, what would it be?

If I could change a couple of things in the music business, it would definitely first have to be to make sure engineers get their credit on all song’s paperwork etc. I feel like we are left out in a shadow when it comes to the industry. Another thing I would have to change is the dollar amount of what we get for streams. Some of these digital platforms’ payouts are crazy & not fair to the artist.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I’m currently working on Chingy’s album right now which has been a very fun process. He definitely was in my top 5 favorite rappers growing up so to be able to work with him is cool. I’m also working on my own master class series to teach other upcoming engineers my techniques & strategies.

Where can the readers follow you?

Instagram @LouieValentino

Twitter @Louie_Valentino

J.cymone

Tell everyone who you are and what you do. Hi I’m J.Cymone, singer, songwriter, producer, model, all around bomb ass person you should know!!

How did you get into making music?

Music has always been my passion. I started singing at a young age in my church choir, school chorus, wherever I could really. Growing up in the SF Bay Area exposed me to a multitude of genres and cultures that still influence me to this day. I remember going to a friend’s recording session and stepping in the booth, from then on, I just knew this was the path.

Who are some of your musical influences?

Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Gwen Stefani, and Prince.

Let’s talk about “Imposter Syndrome” and the motivation behind it.

Imposter Syndrome is my baby. Prior to recording and releasing that I had been doing a lot of feature work and recording a lot of records that didn’t really reflect me as an artist. I felt super stuck creatively even though I was projecting so much confidence in my work. “Imposter Syndrome” was me working through that and stepping back into a place of authenticity. This was also the first body of work where I was in the driver’s seat and had total creative control. That being said I feel like listeners joining me at this stage in my journey can really meet me where I’m at authentically.

Where do you see yourself in three years?

Coming off of my first US tour, celebrating my first full-length album release.

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I’d love to perform on the water somewhere like Ibiza or Santorini.

How would you describe your style of music? I call it Future Soul.

What is one fun fact about yourself?

I’ve recently become obsessed with plants and I’m slowly turning my apartment into a jungle.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I’ve got new music on the way, I just finished up a song featuring Rayven Justice that I’m really excited about! I’m looking forward to releasing a lot of new music this year!

Where can the readers follow you?

Instagram @jcymonemusic

YouTube @jcymonemusic

TikTok @JCymoneSongbird

marcus Brandon

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

My name is Marcus Brandon, I grew up in a military family where I spent half of my childhood in Europe. I’m an actor and entrepreneur with businesses in cybersecurity, IT consulting, ecommerce, real estate and the shared coworking space. I’m currently recurring as Dedrick in the Paramount+ hit series Mayor of Kingstown.

What made you want to pursue a career in film?

As a kid, I was heavily influenced or inspired by the characters I would see on TV. If I watched a James Bond film, I would think that I too was a spy. Eventually, I realized that I wanted to do exactly what the actors were doing, I wanted to portray characters that inspired others.

How would you define your purpose in life?

I believe my purpose expands beyond my career. My purpose in this world is to help those who are less fortunate and to find ways that will bring humankind closer together. I want to add value to this world.

Let’s talk about the film “Mayor of Kingstown” and the role you played in the film.

I play Dedrick in the Paramount+ hit series Mayor of Kingstown. Dedrick is the leader of the Bloods and rival to the lead character Bunny, the leader of the Crips played by Tobi Bamtefa. Dedrick is intimidating and can be deadly when necessary. He’s a true product of his environment. However, he wants better for his community and constantly thinking of ways to legitimize his business endeavors.

Out of all the films you have been in, which one was your favorite role to play?

I love playing Dedrick. However, I think one of my favorite roles to this day must be Othello.

What are some of your goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

I want to write and produce my own content.

I’m inspired by Issa Rae and Quinta Brunson. Watching them take control and creating a place for their creativity to flourish is beyond inspiring.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?

I love traveling and hope to visit every continent. If I had to choose one place, I would want to travel into space someday. I want to see what earth looks like with my own eyes from that perspective.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I have an independent film that will be taking place in the Philippines. I can’t say much about it right now. But I am very excited for the adventure ahead.

Where can the readers follow you?

If you want to reach me, be sure to follow me on Instagram @marcuslorenzobrandon

gus drakopouLos

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

I was born and raised by my two immigrant parents in a Greek-Italian neighborhood in Astoria, New York was home to many Greek and Italian Immigrants and we were all 1st generation Americans who came

from hard working parents and humble beginnings. We were taught good work ethic, and learned how to be tough and have street smarts.

What made you want to open a nightclub?

One of my first clients came in 1996.

It was a guy by the name of Lampros Moumouris. He was my business partner, mentor, and best friend - he even baptized my only son. Lampros was in the adult nightclub business in Texas since 1990, owning several clubs in Austin.

In 2001 we faced a criminal indictment for insider trading from the SEC and FBI. I was 24 years old, and all I knew at the time was how to sell stock over the phone and I was pretty good at it. I was earning a 6-figure salary. When I was facing the end of that career and was trying to figure out what would be next, Lampros and his

businesses came to mind. The higher level of adult “cabaret style” nightclubs did not exist in New York City the way they did in Texas. I was able to convince him to open a club with me in the South Bronx, a mile away from Yankee Stadium. In 2002, Sin City Cabaret was established.

Sin City became a staple in the region, known as a very popular place frequented by celebrities, athletes, and very influential industry people despite its location in the South Bronx compared to similar clubs in Manhattan. The fact that it was located in the South Bronx, was one of the reasons it became the landmark night club it did.

Let’s talk about “Show Palace Queens” and how it got started. A few years later, after Sin City was well on its way, we wanted to expand with other brands. We set our eyes on a location in the upcoming neighborhood of Long Island City, Queens: not far from where I grew up. It was a big investment for me, purchasing the property for $3.5 million. Our game plan was to build a bigger and better version of Sin City, so we partnered with Dave Grazzianno and his team of interior designers.

Dave co-founded and operated nightclubs himself, such as Bagatelle, Kiss and Fly, and RDV. I was thrilled to collaborate with such a visionary, to create an adult night club like no other. Not only was it going to be the largest in New York City, but also be the most visually appealing and have the type of ambiance we were seeking. We originally named the club Gypsy Rose, after the first well known burlesque dancer in the US.

However, we faced opposition from the local community board. Because Long Island City had been formerly full of prostitutes, gangs, and drugs and was now gentrified, it was on the way of being one of the hottest neighborhoods in the city. The board didn’t see our vision; that adding an entertainment venue would be strongly aligned with where the neighborhood was heading. They inevitably influenced the State Liquor Authority to deny our Liquor License. As a result, we had no choice but to open

up without alcohol and go fully nude - a concept in the adult nightclub industry that works, but never in a space as classy or extravagant as ours. With hope of appealing the SLA decision (which we thought would be temporary at the time), we adopted the name Show Palace as we didn’t want to associate Gypsy Rose with a non-alcoholic, fully nude, 18+ club. Now, over a decade later, Show Palace is a booming success.

Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

If the stars all line up right, and the perfect location and partnership arise, Miami!

Tell us more about “Sin City” in Philadelphia.

In 2017, Sin City in the Bronx was facing a lot of opposition in the form of legal issues, because at that time the South Bronx was starting to gentrify. Sin City’s run was coming to an end, and I did not want to see the brand I put my blood, sweat and tears to build (and considered “my baby”) to completely disappear. When an industry friend mentioned a club being sold in South Philly, I went to go see the venue, and saw its potential. I decided to start the negotiations in 2017 and finally closed on the deal in April of 2019. We went into construction that July with the goal of opening the fully renovated space by May of 2020. Unfortunately, the pandemic hit, putting a halt on the finishing touches of the construction phase. We opened the club in very odd and uncertain conditions when the city allowed the hospitality industry to open up with restrictions in September (50% occupancy, 6 foot distancing, 12 midnight lights out). This was not the way to make a first impression in the nightclub business, to say the least.

If you could go back and talk to your younger self, what would you tell him?

I would tell myself to get a law degree.

What is one fun fact about yourself?

I’m a private pilot, an aviator, and had a cameo in the movie Hustlers with Jennifer Lopez!

What is one of the biggest accomplishments you’ve received in your career? The level of originality Sin City reached and being recognized among other great venues established in New York City (such as Studio 54, Palladium, The Tunnel, Limelight, Score Cabaret, and others.)

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? Not at the moment, but we are always looking for and considering new locations.

Where can the readers follow you?

a. @gussbossman

b. www.sincityphl.com

c. www.showpalaceny.com.

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LaToya TiLLis

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

I’m LaToya Tillis and I’m a singer/ songwriter from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

What motivated you to be a singer?

I think I always loved to sing naturally but Sister Act 2 truly solidified it for me. After watching that movie, I knew I wanted to go to school for music and have a career as an artist. I grew up in the 90’s so the sound makers of R&B certainly had an impact on my taste in music.

How was your experience playing the role “Effie” in Dream Girls?

Playing the role of “Effie” in Dream Girls was terrifying! During the rehearsal process, I was holding back so much that the director, Machele Miller Dill, cleared the studio and pulled me aside and said “you can’t hide anymore.” I did not audition for the role and there were a lot of amazing singers in Tulsa who I really admired who auditioned. I needed that role to understand that my journey is very similar to the character Effie. Effie’s character is a story of triumph and overcoming. It is a story of overcoming self-doubt, the pressures of the industry, love, and relationships. I always thought of Effie as a caricature and in playing her, I felt all the nuances that made her relatable and human.

Tell us more about the Sony Music Publishing contest. The first Cover Song Contest in partnership with Sony Music Publishing is very exciting and I hope it grows to be as big as other televised talent competition shows! Masterpiece Studios is a recording studio in Detroit, Michigan. It is the first studio built by a woman, awardwinning songwriter Sylvia Moy, and is now owned and operated by her estate.

Sylvia Moy was a songwriter and producer for Motown who is best known for writing the hit song “Uptight (Everything Alright)” for Stevie Wonder, then 12, when the label was concerned about his voice changing and not having any songs. Sylvia directly rescued his career.

The Cover Song Contest is the brainchild of Celeste Moy, Esq. and her siblings. They wanted to honor the legacy of their sister Sylvia and also pay tribute to the great songwriters from the 50s to today who wrote the songs that that have been the soundtrack of our lives for decades.

What makes the Cover Song Contest stand out from other competitions is that it gives artists the ability to be creative and showcase their creative process. We were all given a list of songs to recreate in our respective genres. It was super fun to participate in as well as view the other artists who entered!

Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

In three years, I see myself being a full-time musician and creating albums that will reach the masses. I want to work with as many artists, songwriters, musicians, and producers as possible. I also act and would love to star in films similar to Sister Act 2.

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If I could perform anywhere in the world I would love to perform at the BET Awards, Glastonbury Festival, The Super Bowl, The Grammys, Wembley Stadium…the list goes on and on. Large venues and festivals!

What has been one of the biggest accomplishments you’ve received in your career?

One of the biggest accomplishments I have received in my career is being selected for Masterpiece Sound Studios Cover Contest. It is such an honor

and joy to get to sing classics from wonderful artists and musicians! Words can’t express how thankful I am.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Regular musicians practice until they get it right. Professional musicians practice until they can’t get it wrong.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I am working on several single records right now and currently looking to build an all-female African American 5-piece band called Powrrr. The name is a spin on empowerment and being powerful. Someone once told me that power means the ability to get things done and I’m determined to do just that, no matter how long it takes! I also just put out a single with supertalented singer-songwriter Derran Day that everyone should check out called “Come Over”! We were freshmen together at Berklee College of Music so it was awesome to have worked with him on the song.

Where can the readers follow you? Follow me on Instagram ; @LaToyaTillisMedia for the latest updates!

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