June 2021 Issue

Page 1

Look Inside For The DJ of The Month The Entertainment Industry A Reflection of The Society We Live In

My Life Your Entertainment

Edward Sylvan


15

CONTENTS JUNE 2021

NewBreath 04 Edward Sylvan 07 AKBAR 09 Ms. Juicy 11 Devin Lee 13 Sophia Maria 15 Fly Ty 18 18 Shay OmyGod 20 Peter Meyer 23 Miguel 26 Veena & Alex 28 Nico Franc 30 DJ Mos 32 Ad Dolphin 34 La Shana Latrice 37 BJ Coleman 42 Money Marc 44

20

04

07

23 09

11

13


26

34

28

37 Founder – Cece Hymes

42

30

W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovated in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management.   Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken.

44 32

We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!   With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,

WIB Magazine

3


NewBreath

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. We are NewBreath - Mike Werner, Trey Washington, and Caleb McGuire based in Vancouver, Washington. Mike is a very successful entrepreneur with ventures in trucking as well as commercial and residential real estate. Trey owns and operates restaurants and bars. While Caleb

4

WIB Magazine

is a leading tech executive who specializes in marketing. We started this venture as friends based on Mike’s idea during the pandemic. Q. Let’s talk about “NewBreath Clothing” and the motivation behind the brand? A. While everyone was in quarantine, Mike’s original concept was figuring

out a way for the average working man and the many frontline workers to safely go out to their jobs. The more we talked about it, the more we realized we could also be of help to the entire families and communities to emerge from lockdown and gather while being safe and keeping everyone, they love safe.


Q. Tell us about your mask and the material? A. Each item is manufactured from a range of tech fabrics with advanced properties that support the functionality of the face masks. The pieces in lighter weight fabric contour to the body for comfort and ease of mobility while providing +40 UV protection. Those in medium weight feature tiny capillaries for moisture wicking while the heavy weight pieces are dual-sided fused material that exude a more luxurious look and feel. The mask area also features washable charcoal filters that capture particulates in the air including allergens and bacteria. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next three years? A. We see NewBreath as becoming an essential part of everyone’s wardrobe. The designs are minimalist and classic, so they are easily incorporated into different wardrobes from casuals to dressier outfits. And in this age of communicable contagions NewBreath will remain functional years down the line. Q. Do you have any specials right now? A. Since we just launched, we don’t have any specials at the moment. As we go along, I’m sure we’ll be able to offer some specials for our shoppers. Q. How did you come up with that name and its meaning? A. We considered several names for a while but when we came up with NewBreath it seemed to effectively capture a sense of a fresh start. It’s not only clearly described what the garments are supposed to provide people but a way of depicting the brand as a functional and sensible approach to the “new normal”. Q. What makes your brand different than other companies? A. NewBreath is made entirely in the US as a line of performance tops with the versatility to be worn for a range of activities and feature an extended funnel neck that fits snuggly cover your mouth and nose and can be held in place by ear straps. Part of how we envisioned the line is as a superior alternative to disposable face masks. We saw how they were fast accumulating on the streets as trash and polluting the environment. And because they’re not biodegradable, they just increase the pile up in landfills. Additionally, many face masks are uncomfortable, ill-fitting, cumbersome, and many lose them or leave them behind. NewBreath is also sustainable because they’re durable enough to be worn for years to come even as everyday wear.

WIB Magazine

5


Q. Are you working on any new projects or designs? A. We’re always trying to imagine new designs, but we want to roll them out gradually. Q. What is your favorite product you have? A. Right now I’d say our favorites are the Reno and Miami tops because they feature OSHA standard reflective stripes for high visibility. They’re great for running and biking at night and perfect for construction and road work. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. We’re on :  newbreathclothing  New Breath Clothing While the entire collection is available on:  NewBreathClothing.com

6

WIB Magazine

“ As we emerge into this new normal, we’ve since seen how important this can be as essential activewear top for people going back to travel, working out and sports, or simply as a stylish, comfortable and convenient outdoor casual wear "


“The time to be most focused is when you are down. ”

Edward Sylvan WIB Magazine

7


effort to bring awareness to our channel and to create new and unique content, we are currently the primary sponsor of the #10 Indycar for Chip Ganassi Racing team #99 SUV in the Extreme E racing series. We are also working with an Esports company to do cross promotions as well as create exclusive content for our channel.

A. The main roadblocks to when started was the lack of relationships in the entertainment side of the business and gaining the trust of the filmmakers. Hollywood and the entertainment industry as a whole are a very insulated and small community. It took me many years of attending film festivals and networking within the industry to develop the relationships needed to get access to quality films and people to help me along the way.

SEGI TV Chip Ganassi GMC Hammer EV

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Edward Sylvan, I am the CEO and Co-Founder of Sycamore Entertainment Group Inc. Q. Can you tell us about your company “Sycamore Entertainment Group” and the motivation behind it? A. Sycamore is a full-service Film and TV marketing and distribution company. We distribute our films through traditional theatres as well as through our over the top streaming platform SEGI.TV. The motivation behind the company was seeing how filmmakers of color and other underrepresented content creators struggle to bring their projects to life due to the lack of understanding of the financial aspects of filmmaking, as well as not understanding the distribution process. As I come from a financial background, I was able to educate filmmakers about the process. Q. What roadblocks did you face when you were starting out?

8

WIB Magazine

Q. What are some things that you are working on with helping filmmakers of color? A. Some of the things we are working on to help filmmakers of color is through making SEGI.TV a place where they can partner with us to show their films while offering them a fair revenue share so they can benefit from that hard work of producing the content. We also are assisting in providing financing to various projects that would not otherwise be considered because of the projects inability to navigate the normal channels film projects have to go through in order to be considered.

Q. You wear so many hats what has been your biggest challenge to deal with? A. My biggest challenge is managing my time in such a way to keep what’s most important to the growth of SEGI.TV at the forefront by not getting distracted with other items that can be managed by other team members. Q. What is the best advice you’ve been given? A. The best advice I have been given as it relates to business is never give up not on your dream and to never take shortcuts and do it right the first time because in the end shortcuts will wind up costing you precious time. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Readers can follow me on:  edwardsylvan our streaming site  SEGI.TV and  corp.SEGI.TV.

Q. Is the brand working on any exciting new projects? A. SEGI.TV is currently working on a few exciting marketing projects that involve both the Esports world as well as motorsports. In an Ed Sylvan and SEGI TV Chip Ganassi Extreme E driver Sara Price display her new fire suit.


Akbar

WIB Magazine

9


Q. What are some of your goals for the next couple of years? A. My goal for the next couple years is just to continue to grow as an artist, brand and business and to make the XXL Freshmen list ASAP! Q. Can you tell us some of the challenges you’ve had being in the music industry? A. The challenge of just understanding that if I don’t do something or learn something, then when will I ever? So just holding myself more accountable! Q. Are you working on any new events or projects?

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I’m Akbartheg8 from Columbus, OH: Rapper, songwriter, screenwriter and actor. I just recently signed to the iconic Superwoman Karyn White’s new label Supernova Unlimited. Q. Who inspired you to make music? A. I’ve always been in love with making music so it’s hard to say. Even as a kid, I used to make songs cracking jokes on my cousins and these songs all had verses and choruses. But, I can most definitely attribute my love for music to my mom! Q. How would you describe the music that you typically write? A. Two words: Truthful and vulnerable! Q. Tell us about your single YRBG (Young Righteous Black Girl) and the motivation behind the song? A. YRBG is an anthem for black women worldwide; a track that praises their mental and spiritual aspects. Black women were my first love and they’ve always poured into me, so it’s only right to reciprocate that same energy. Q. Who are your top Five singers of all time? A. My top five singers in no particular order, have to be Musiq Soulchild, Avant, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and of course, Ms. Karyn White!

10

WIB Magazine

A. I have an EP entitled “Born King”, that I’m planning on releasing at the beginning of the summer. Q. What is the best advice you’ve been given? A. Do what they won’t, so you can do what they can’t!” Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Everyone can follow me @ Akbartheg8 IG, Facebook, Twitter. TikTok, and Clubhouse. Subscribe to my new website with your email, for a chance to win free merch! Akbartheg8.com.

“Do what they won't so you can do what they can't! ”


“I have been blessed to be where I am now but I'm still striving for my biggest accomplishment. The best is yet to come. ”

Ms. Juicy

WIB Magazine

11


Q. Tell us a little bit about your journey on being on the show “Little Women of Atlanta” the advantages and disadvantages of being on the show? A. The good outweighs the bad. Disadvantage is it takes up a lot of my time when filming considering that I’m a very busy person. Advantages is the extra platform to push everything I have going on and finally with this 6th season, my creative expertise has been recognized and I am the executive producer this season.

Q. It’s an honor to interview with you. Can you tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. It’s Ms Juicy Baby and I’m an actress, host, radio personality, and star lol. Q. How did you get the name Ms. Juicy and what is the meaning behind the name? A. It’s a mixture of things. I have a tattoo of a chocolate dipped strawberry bitten off of and juices flowing from it that says Juicy Enough. Rickey was looking for a name for me for the show and the tattoo came to mind and that’s where Juicy was born. I was always a Keri Hilson fan hence the Baby in my name and how I say it. “Ms Juicy Baby”. Q. Did you know that you wanted to be a reality star, and if so, what motivated you to get to where you are today? A. No I never wanted to be a reality star and I don’t consider myself to be one either. I am and have always wanted to be an actress. I decided to join the reality world as a way to raise awareness about dwarfism. Q. What has been one of your memorable experiences being on the Rickey Smiley Show? A. I was there for over 13 years so there are so many, but my fondest memories are when me and Headkrack collaborated while I was singing.

12

WIB Magazine

Q. Are you working on any events or projects for 2021? A. There are a lot of things I have in the works from movies to tv shows and my own honey- flavored cognac Lasserre. Still pushing my shades line Eminence Eyewear by Juicy and my own merch. Q. What struggles have you overcome to get where you are today?

A. I wouldn’t call them struggles, I will call them stepping stones. I never used my size as a crutch and when I’m told I can’t do something; I like to prove them wrong. Q. How have things been going since being on Reece Radio show? A. It’s been going great. We’re a big family and constantly expanding our reach. Q. What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment? A. I have been blessed to be where I am now but I’m still striving for my biggest accomplishment. The best is yet to come. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Everyone can follow me on IG: @msjuicyrsms Facebook: @MsJuicyBabyRSMS Twitter: @msjuicyj Website: www.therealmsjuicybaby.com.


“ We dream big at "Ambition Worldwide" and we have big plans. "

Devin Lee Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Devin Lee, of Black and Puerto Rican heritage, born and raised in New York. I am an artist and designer as well as the co-founder and creative director of the fashion brand Ambition Worldwide.

Q. Tell us about “Ambition Worldwide” & how the brand got started? A. Back in 2012 or 2013, a good friend of mine from high school, Juan “Blanco” Fernandez reached out

to me with an idea to make some t-shirts. He knew I was working as a freelance Graphic Designer at the time and wanted to use some of my talents. Blanco then asked me how involved I’d like to be. I could’ve chosen to design just a few shirts and split profit or go in as a partner to grow the business instead. The concept at the heart of the project really intrigued me and I thought there was great potential in it, so I chose to partner up. This business was something we

were growing as a side project until we were able to commit 100%. There were some tough years as I eventually was recruited to work at an Ad Agency for 5 years and my partner had his hand in many entrepreneurial projects. We made it work though. He came up with our former name “Ambition Apparel NYC” which we had for the first few years of operation. But after Blanco passed, I had to take the brand to a new level and refined the name to Ambition Worldwide not only usher in a new phase but really to

WIB Magazine

13


re-imagine the brand for today’s modern global and digitallyconnected men and women. Q. What makes your apparel line unique? A. It starts from a level of authenticity and reflects the daring attitude of New York. They’re the kind of garments people wear not to look like everyone else but to express their true selves. Then, the word “Ambition” is the fuel that inspires everyone to dream and achieve. You don’t have to be a successful entrepreneur to be ambitious. You could be a school student, a parent, a good friend. The name speaks to anyone and everyone in the world who want to make a difference. The designs are also tied very closely to my personal story and style. I create pieces to be youthful, but timeless, simple and wearable by all ages. Rather just making pieces look cool, my thought process is “this design looks great but how can I discuss one piece with meaning”. Every design detail is intentional, from fabric to fit, from silhouette to color palette, from concept to graphic placement. When I’m in the design process, I like to look at my own wardrobe and see what’s missing. I think about what inspires me - I’m inspired by many things whether it be architecture, film, food, lifestyle or travel as I’m sure many people are - this is where we connect with our audience as well. Q. Tell us more about your collection and the motivation behind them? A. I released our SS21 “World’s Fair” collection to kick things off because that fair in 1964 was an optimistic look toward the future and a way of embracing the world. I also wanted to represent not just New York but Queens in particular where the fair was held. 2020 was very much a rebirth for me and so what better place to start off than at the beginning on home turf? There are brands from Queens, NY but I hadn’t actually seen a full upscale collection dedicated to the borough. I wanted to fill that void and do something different. And as a minority owned business, it is important to me that I show the youth that it can be done.

14

WIB Magazine

Q. Where do you see your brand in the next five years? A. We dream big at “Ambition Worldwide” and we have big plans, so I see us being carried in select retailers globally with much more robust collections. We’re focusing on providing a successful entry level line that serves as a way for people who don’t have the budget to spend a modest amount of money to be part of the Ambition Worldwide brand. I want the world to know about Blanco, and about what we started. I have always admired A$AP mob for keeping Yams’ legacy alive through their work and I wanted to do something similarly, so Blanco’s memory stays alive in the collections. I would also love to get the brand involved in working with underserved communities. Too many in these communities are struggling so it would be important to me to keep everyone motivated and well taken care of. Q. What has been the biggest challenge you have had building your brand? A. The biggest challenge I can say I’ve faced is trying to grow the brand’s audience in a saturated market where “clout” comes first before the work. Another is assembling a consistently reliable and dedicated team behind the brand. It’s not

easy finding the right people with the necessary skills as well as the commitment to helping us bring Ambition Worldwide to life. Q. Are you working on any new projects? A. There’s always something new we’re working on at Ambition Worldwide - definitely! I’m currently working on an Ambition Merch line which includes tees, hats and sweats. The Merch line includes entry level pricing to allow those who may not be able to afford our cut and sew to still be part of the Ambition Worldwide brand. Our devoted fans can also look forward to new cut and sew shorts coming soon! Q. How do you come up with the ideas on what the fans want? A. I found that coming up with ideas isn’t actually too difficult. As a fan and student of fashion myself, I’ve watched and followed other designers and brands from the early stages to growing into successful businesses. I think the fact that I could see potential in others’ designs validates that I already had an eye for design in general for what was good. It’s just a balance between trying to stay on trend with cuts and silhouettes and maintaining the integrity and truth of myself in what I like and wear. Q. What advice can you give to others who want to start an apparel line? A. I would advise anyone who wants to create their own line to make sure they have a solid business model and a plan for at least the next 6 months. There will be naysayers but that comes with the territory of being an entrepreneur. They should also take a look at what’s already out there and see if there is something, they think the industry is missing or if they can capitalize on something unique to themselves as a brand. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Everyone can follow the brand on Instagram at @ambitionworldwide. And on my personal page @ thadotman, I always post sneak peaks so they can stay informed about new products, new designs and BTS before the final products make it to the brand page.


Sophia Maria

WIB Magazine

15


Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Hi! My name is Sophia Maria I am a proud mexitaliana. I have been a singer and entertainer for over 20 plus years. I have been Touring with PCG Concert Group. I am also Promoting my newest single You Make Me Cry and selling my merch BlessingsNBesitós. Q. Who or what motivated you to be a singer? A. I used to sing constantly around the house as a young child, my dad was watching Star Search and asked if I would like to perform on the stage like them I said yes and he put me into vocal lessons. I also had a minor stuttering problem so the vocal lessons helped with that, my vocal coach would teach me techniques to minimize my stuttering. When I wasn’t singing or performing, I was shy with no confidence, when I would sing, I never stuttered and felt comfortable in my own skin. Q. Who are your top 5 favorite singers of all time?

A. Such a hard question being such a FAN of music there are so many pero if I had to narrow down to 5 artists.... Ariana Grande, Bruno Mars, Keke Wyatt, Selena, Barbara Streisand. Q. Tell us about this movie that you going to be in? A. I can’t speak to much about the movie, but I play a “crazy latina girlfriend “the movie is about a young man that basically is trying to go viral with different videos. It is a comedy. The lead actor is Rob Kazi who is hilarious! Really talented young man! Really the whole cast are incredible.!!!! I was honored to work with the iconic Iroc Daniels who directed the film as Well as a film called The System a drama which was released in 2018, I highly suggest everyone to check out! Q. Can you tell us about your single and the motivation behind the song? A. The single I’m promoting now is called You Make Me Cry. It is definitely an “in your feels” type of

track. The beat was made by KG Kold, given to me by my friend, TikTok star and fellow artist JohnnyBoy. The song is about a partner cheating and leaving the relationship. One of the lines in the song is “ you lost everything over a piece of a**” my mom used to say this to me growing up she would say why would someone lose their family, life over a moment, a piece of a**. Sadly, the song is very relatable but with a dope beat that gravitates to your soul. The video was filmed by Carlos Torres and the executive producer is Alan Beck. The song is available on all music platforms and the video you can view on my YouTube Channel SophiaMaria702. I also recently had a dance remix done to the song by DJ Crave that will be released in the near future as well as a video for some dope visuals. Q. How would you describe the music you typically create? A. My music has always been relatable music. I have co-written all my songs since the age of 10. I write off experiences and situations of others or the times at hand. I love a soulful sound. Something urban but classic at the same time. I am most proud of my newest single “You Make Me Cry” because it is the first song in over 20 years, I wrote all lyrics on my own and produced on my own. Q. Who would you most like to collaborate with? A. I would love to collab with Bruno Mars. I think he is the male Beyonce. He can sing, dance, act, write, produce, engineer .. he does it all. He also seems chill and super cool to be around. Good vibes maybe? Q. If you could change anything about the industry what would it be? A. If I could change anything it would be everyone would have a chance in this industry. That seems near impossible, but I know of so many genuinely talented artists and musicians that don’t have the means to make it. So much of the industry is saturated with artists that got

16

WIB Magazine


“I am building an empire and I hope to leave a legacy for other female entrepreneurs to follow. ”

there because of payola or social media fame. Or a machine behind them paying stations those companies and promotions. They embedding in people’s heads their artist is the greatest in the world, and they may not be. If this makes any sense. Q. Are you working on any new events or projects? A. I am working on streaming more singles. I have some new music coming out with my friend AC The Promoter, just wrapped a song that DJSimes mix and mastered, working on new music with the legendary DJ Wino and more! I will be hitting some of the shows with PCG Concert Group where I’ll be performing My new single “You Make Me Cry”, hit “Forget About Her” and selling my merch BlessingsNBesitós. I will be posting all upcoming shows on my IG SophiaMaria702. Also putting out some new music with my long time friend, producer and

song writer Carlos Guillen, and excited to also be putting out soon a dance remix to my new single "You Make Me Cry" by DJ Crave through DJ Kentot Amplified Entertainment. The music video for this we shot in Reno and should be out soon!! More shows are lined up and in the works as well as some acting gigs that I can't wait for! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me on >>Instagram.com/ SophiaMaria702 >> Facebook, Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and All Music platforms under Sophia Maria ... my YouTube channel SophiaMaria 702.

WIB Magazine

17


Fly Ty

18

WIB Magazine


Q. How would you define your personal style? A. I would define my personal style as very unique, slightly trendy, vintage, classy, and spontaneous on any given day. Q. Are you working on any events or new projects? A. At the moment no new projects in the works but I am opened to anyone collabing with me whose likeminded with my dedication, ambition and whose driven to set they own trends like myself so we can be a power team to the top of the ladder. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You guys can follow me on Instagram @flytybands__.

“Stay original cause an original is worth more than a copy and with Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I go as “Fly Ty” born out of Flatbush, Brooklyn ....I am a fashion designer, celebrity stylist, brand ambassador, NYC comedy club promoter, wellknown horror cosplayer in the horror community and also have been a co-host on iHeart Radio’s morning podcast “The DayOff Show”. Q. How did you get the name “Fly Ty” and the meaning behind it? A. I got the name in my high school years from always coming to school in expensive clothes that many people back in high school could not even afford such as minks and gator shoes, etc...and there is no specific meaning to it, it just speaks for itself lol. Q. What motivated you to be a fashion designer? A. What motivated me to be a fashion designer was the ability to stand out amongst the rest and be the spotlight always of the crowd....so I would buy what everyone else would wear but customize it in my own way and color coordinate my fits with it and people would often become inspired.

Q. Who or which things are the inspiration while creating any design? A. No one in particular was my inspiration while creating designs, I just tapped into old school fashion from my pops educating me on it from his era in the 60s as the best dressed guy back then his friends as well as himself would often tell me.

my orginality came success within the fashion industry."

Q. How do you stay updated with the trends in the fashion industry? A. I stay updated with the trends in the fashion industry from social media, watching music videos and going to fashion shows in the areas within NYC such as the Soho which is one of the most fashionable places out here I would recommend tourists whose into style and fashion. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? A. In the next five years I see myself as a huge successful fashion influencer, a person who many look up to for my diverse sense of style and of a person who taught many of the new generation the importance of knowing your fashion history since it always repeats itself generation after generation.

WIB Magazine

19


“You have to believe in yourself more than anyone else does! If you know this is for you then who can be against you."

Shay OmyGod  20

WIB Magazine


Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I am a celebrity host who has worked with the likes of Tank, Snoop Dogg, Big Sean, Ice Cube and more. I am an actress, model, an entrepreneur with currently 6 businesses and a mom of 4, 2 boys and 2 girls... I’m a radio personality, brand ambassador and media correspondent... I do a lot! I also assist small businesses with branding and marketing themselves, that is actually my passion, to be a help to anyone that needs and will listen. Q. What motivated you to be in the entertainment industry? A. My voice, my way with words and my relatable personality got me hooked with this industry. It was a friend who was in radio who got me started because of my bubbly personality. From there people would hear my voice and they’d instantly loved me therefore becoming a co-host on the show. Seeing how much people gravitate towards me was my motivation. I also was intrigued by the world of radio and being a radio jockey/host. They were low-key famous to us; I wanted that type of attention and being creative helped push me right into it. Q. How did you get the name “Networking Diva”? A. I have always been passionate about small businesses because I am a small business owner and I have a gift of gab. In my early radio days, I would network with small businesses to give them an outlet to promote their brands. Knowing that I had this ability, people would say, “You know you are networking your butt off.” Hence the Networking Diva. It is still prevalent today; my passion has only gotten stronger for entrepreneurs. Q. Tell us about your business “Shay Networking & Media Solution” and the motivation behind it? A. Years ago, I saw there was a need for helping people by giving them information for branding, marketing, and promoting their businesses. I then created my company to represent my name and what I provided for them including radio advertising opportunities. Knowing that I was helping them and not taking advantage

of them was my motivation. Then if or when I needed a favor, they were willing to do so because I was helpful to them. This definitely allowed my networking platform to rise. Q. What is the next big move for you? A. Besides moving to Atlanta and growing my brand out here. Jumping into acting more. I want whatever big moves God has for me! I may not even know them yet, but I am definitely ready for them! I stay Ready baby! Q. Do you have any upcoming projects you are working on? A. I have quite a few things going on at once, building my acting career

is one. So, I will be in L.A. this month to do some filming and I’m taking acting classes & workshops. I already have 2 films that came out in 2020. They are currently on Amazon Prime, “The Mule” by Mula Films and “The Yousers” by Darren Brown both directors from Detroit. Shout out to the D because they’re definitely making some noise on the indie side of filmmaking. I’m also working on a few projects for an upcoming Podcast, can’t disclose too much but you will need to follow me to see what that’s all about. I am getting back into modeling where we focus on the print and commercial aspect of it for full figures. We’re also working on an event to assist women/children

WIB Magazine

21


guy. Most people will never know that about me because I am so outgoing, being the life of the party! And that I can sing, I just don’t do it for a living. Hosting is my baby and it allows me to be my authentic self and have fun without trying, it feels so natural vibing with the audience. My adrenaline always peeps up when I’m on the stage, it’s definitely a rush. With singing you are under a magnifying glass; people are waiting for you to hit the wrong note and then your career is on thin ice. Too much pressure!

you and keep pushing you towards your highest level of frequency that you can be! If it’s what you truly want, then keep pushing for it and don’t stop. Take the corrective criticism from the industry legends, surround yourself with talent that has longevity, they know the keys to success. Don’t think everyone is hating just because your talent, art or music is not vibing with them, it’s ok that it doesn’t. Hell, everybody doesn’t like Rihanna but look where she is!! You have to believe in yourself more than anyone else does! If you know this is for you then who can be against you. You have to feel that desire so strong that you are willing to keep pushing by your damn self while going up a hill, now remember there are a million others just like you. So how will you set yourself apart from them? How are you any better or different from the same cats that are in your field. And that is where the work comes in, to bring your character and your passion to life so that it will not look or sound like anyone else in your field or in that room at that time! How will you make it shine so bright that it will make you undeniable! I promise you; my personality has gotten me into rooms that my resume could not do at that time! Because I believed in ME!!! I had to understand that my Purpose, My Passion and my Persistence had to stay on fire so that I could become successful!!! Stand on that with Everything that you Are and Everything that you want to Become!! Keep telling yourself “You Got This”

Q. What advice can you give others that want to be in the entertainment industry? A. #1 Attitude is Everything!!!! Keep a Positive Attitude at all times! The negativity will creep in, so you must stay around people that motivates

Q. Where can the readers follow you? A.  ShayomyGod  Iam Shay OmyGod  Shay-Networking For Bookings:  ContactShayOmyGod@gmail.com

that has been affected by domestic violence whether it’s mental, physical, phycological or sexual abuse we want them to know that we are here. I am a survivor, so I want to be that lending ear or hand to pull them up. More to come from the Hu$tle Gurl Brand by Shay OmyGod, which is my apparel and eyeglass line & It’s sister brand that is in the development stages now, so that is still a little on the hush hush side... So, I am one busy lady! Q. If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be? A. The industry is such a beast and I wish it wasn’t so cutthroat. It almost feels like there aren’t any real friends in this game. It’s either me or you and there can’t be the 2 of us. But I always tell people, “Bill Gates didn’t stop being a millionaire just because Warren Buffett became one or McDonald’s didn’t stop making billions of burgers just because Burger King got into the business or all the other burger chains. There’s enough for everyone, so stop hating on other people’s blessings. Don’t be fake about it either, it’s ok to not like someone but don’t throw salt on them. Doing that can truly block your blessings. What’s for you is for you and it will come in the time that it is intended. Keep working and wait on it! I promise you; I know you will get more favor that way. People will see your attitude about things and will bless you just from that. Q. What is one fun fact about yourself? A. Hmmm, that I am shy when I am on a one on one basis, like with a

22

WIB Magazine


Peter Meyer

WIB Magazine

23


Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My Name is Peter Meyer. I am an Author and Film Producer/Director of “The Boy from the Wild”, as well as an Actor, Business Owner and Ex-Hotelier. I grew up on a Game Reserve (Safari) in South Africa that my father started and then lived and worked around the world in the Hotel Industry for majority of my life. I now reside in London (UK) where I own and Manage a Hi-end Photography Studio business and just released the documentary film. Q. What attracted you to begin a career as an actor and director? A. It came to me by a complete chance. I was back in the UK after my father had passed and going through the grieving process and spending the time to comfort my mum, when a family friend pushed me towards it one day, set me up on a platform and within 3 days I was picked for a TV Car Commercial. From then one thing led to another and ended up loving the experience, the challenge and the natural side of me. Acting and Commercial work just grew and then ended up working on some of the biggest sets with big A-list artists. As for Directing again it was a little by chance as I wrote the book as a tribute to my father and figured why not go and film a trailer for the book of where I grew up to give the book a visual context for the audience. When I went down to film it in South Africa with a small team, it so happened the head of National Geographic & Disney was staying at the lodge and was fascinated by the story and encouraged me to make it bigger. From there I went and spent some time planning, flew back on a Press Tour for the book and then made it during the trip and loved the experience of it. My first film as Producer director then got signed by distributors 7 Palms Entertainment and then got Signed by Amazon Prime and now Apple TV. Q. Tell us about the upcoming documentary “The Boy From The Wild”?

24

WIB Magazine

A. It is about my life growing up in the wild on a Game Reserve that my father created which was a massive conservation project. It is ultimately a tribute for my late father. It explains how it was created and how he brought animals out of captivity from around the world back into the wild. It explains the importance of conservation as well as the link between humans and wildlife that is not often talked about. It gives an emotional feel as well as cinematic beauty of the location and the wildlife. Q. Who do you consider to be your acting role model whose career would you like to emulate and why? A. There are so many but in some ways for so many different reasons. Having been on set you get a view of what people can be like on and offset, and no better Sportsman I feel than Roger Federer to show class on and off the court. In acting I would say that was Liam Neeson, he

was so good on set but at the same time so down to earth and lovely offset. You need that in this world. In terms of acting itself but I love people like Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Christian Bale, Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Patrick Swayze who can totally Act and transform who they are by accent, appearance, personality, character etc. A true acting masterclass is something to emulate I feel and would love to do more of. Q. Tell us in your opinion, is the most important quality of a Film director? A. People Skills. You can have vision and talent but if you don’t have the knack to manage a team you aren’t going to go far. You must support a team and give advice but be humble enough to take advice also. You got to trust them and be trusted also. You must be able to create a good atmosphere and know how to support the one at the front as well as the last person at the back and lead by


“ You can have vision and talent but if you don't have the knack to manage a team you aren't going to go far. You must support a team and give advice but be humble enough to take advice also."

example always. Teamwork will bring the best out in a project and ultimately complete a project. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next three years? A. Still on my couch if they don’t sort out the Covid issue Lockdown soon ;) I am hoping in that time the new Studio Photography business I have will be established and possibly my book and film turned into a Series or Feature Film by a large Studio group. Possibly also find a girl and settle down and have a few cubs of my own. Q. How do you manage your personal and professional life? A. When I was in hotels much better than now. The last few years have been hectic and re-establishing myself starting in a new industry and business and following dreams. I would normally do gym, activities, restaurants and travel, but I deep down love the business I am in and enjoy working as it is a passion not a job. Q. If you can go anywhere in the world where would you go? A. So many. South Africa always but that’s a given and where I grew up is my ultimate as its paradise to me and home. For me there is no place like it and you have to go there to understand why. Stunning nature, wildlife, views, waterfalls, people and a sense of home unlike any other. I loved places like islands and in particular Seychelles where I opened a hotel. I loved it there and the beauty and calmness as well as the people and vibe. Q. What do you like to do on your spare time? A. When I get it, cook, gym, play squash, see my family, friends and go to the movies. Always loved the movies and the experience and even the upcoming trailers. Seems such a thing of the past now due to covid and how online film channels are. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. https://petermeyer.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCOxzCdlRBEXRVUlKcckCrjg https://www.instagram.com/ petermeyeractor/ https://amzn.to/3egZwDc (Book) Apple TV soon for the Film.

WIB Magazine

25


Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Miguel, I am 35, originally from Venezuela but have lived in London for the past 12 years and I am the creator and Managing Director of Kromo Menswear. Q. Tell us about “Kromo Menswear” and the motivation behind the brand? A. Kromo is a sustainable menswear label founded in London during the first COVID-19 lockdown; all our products are also manufactured in London and we source our eco-friendly fabrics from Italy and Germany. Our minimalist aesthetics focus on comfort, quality and durability. The motivation behind the brand is the amount of waste you can nowadays find in the ocean, mostly coming from plastic and also how much the fashion industry and especially fast fashion contributes to pollution overall. Q. Can you tell us more about the new garments you just released? A. Sure, for our first collection we decided to launch with 4 styles made from 2 types of fabrics, one organic and one regenerated. Our t-shirts and vests are made from bamboo lyocell and our shorts and swim briefs are made from 78% regenerated nylon, better known by its branded name, ECONYL® which is made from retired and abandoned fishing nets and other pre and post-consumer waste like carpet fluff. Each product has taken the name of a city that is very closed to my heart: London (London Essential T-Shirt) - Where I’ve lived the past 12 year and where I have experienced the

Miguel 26

WIB Magazine


most growth so far. Ibiza (Ibiza Vest) - The island where you can experience some of the best sunsets in the Mediterranean. I also love the contrasts of colors of nature there. Miami (Miami Long Shorts) - Where I grew up and where I have some of my best memories. Miami is my second home and I love going back there; it has been great seeing the city evolve from the early 2000’s and see how art, design and food has really changed the scene there. Rio de Janeiro (Rio Sunga - Swim Briefs) - I just fell in love with Rio the moment I arrived, and I recommend everyone to go there to experience it. The air, the people, the buzz of the city. I picked this city for our swimwear line as the style is inspired by a typical brief worn by the local boys on the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

Q. Do you have any specials right now? A. Yes, we are offering free worldwide shipping! Don’t miss the deadline. Q. What makes your brand different from others? A. I would say the fact that our clothes are designed and produced in London and we partner with a sole local manufacturer that follows strict ethical standards such as keeping fabric waste to a minimum and paying their team a competitive fair wage for their hard work. We source only sustainable fabrics that are knitted/woven in the UK

“ My focus is to make products that are as sustainable as possible but also comfortable and simple."

and Europe and carry a fair-trade certification. Q. You also are hosting a Beach clean can you give us more details? A. Sure, we support a fantastic charity called Surfers Against Sewage who recently launched their most ambitious community campaign called, The Million Mile Clean, which connects their beach cleaning action throughout the year, and targets 100,000 volunteers walking 10 miles whilst cleaning the places they love. Their program is very extensive and through their website you can sign up for any of their cleans, including beaches, parks and rivers across the country, so make sure you guys sign up too, the more support we can give these guys the better! :) We are starting by joining their Hackney Marshes clean with 8 of our friends on Saturday May 15 from 10am to 12pm and will be joining other cleans throughout the year as well. Q. What is your most popular product you have? A. Our Miami Long Shorts seem to be very popular at the moment due to the lightness and comfort the fabric offers and also their simplistic design that makes them so versatile. Q. Do you have any new projects or upcoming events? A. Our main focus at the moment is to build Kromo as a staple sustainable menswear label in the UK and Europe and as we evolve, we want to incorporate new designs and fabrics. Hopefully a pop-up store in the near future too :) Q. Where is your favorite store to shop? A. Gosh I haven’t been shopping for a while and lately if I need something specific I tend to get it online, but I would say Liberty; the building is iconic and there

are so many fantastic brands big and small to shop from. Also love going into EASOP, their products are organic, they don’t use harmful chemicals or animal testing and their shops are amazing. Every single one of them is very unique and I love the fact that architecture and design is so key to their identity. Q. How do you come up for your ideas for Kromo Menswear? A. I constantly have lots of random ideas coming into my head, so I try to write everything down at the time and then think about how I can incorporate that into a style. My focus is to make products that are as sustainable as possible but also comfortable and simple. I want Kromo to be that t-shirt that you can wear to either go grocery shopping or on a night out, always keeping sustainability in mind. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Our website and on social media, here are the links: https://www.kromomenswear. com/ https://www.instagram.com/ kromomenswear/

WIB Magazine

27


“ Willingness to listen to feedback and take action, agility and openness to change are core values for us, at salesBeat,"

Veena & Alex

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Alex & I are co-founders of salesBeat. SalesBeat uses big data & machine learning to eliminate stock outs of your favorite and most relied on brands, at supermarkets.

28

WIB Magazine

Currently companies sell their brands into supermarkets on the basis of prior year sales. However, given how unpredictable sales has become in our new normal, with unseasonal weather and fast changing seemingly unpredictable consumer preferences, understanding consumer demand

and selling optimal order volumes is becoming increasingly complex, resulting in stock outs of brands/ products in store. SalesBeat helps eliminate out of stocks in stores. I have more than 20 years in this sector working across functions and markets. Alex, who is our CTO, has more than 20 years in start- ups and in tech.


own company and this led me to think I could do the same! Q. Tell us about “SalesBeat” and the motivation behind the brand? A. SalesBeat has an AI driven app that models consumer buying behavior and makes  predictive recommendations of optimal stock levels to salespeople who sell grocery  brands to supermarkets, distributors & wholesalers. In this industry, it is very common to  say ‘beat sales targets’ rather than ‘exceed sales targets’. As we help sales people and  brand owners beat their sales targets by providing timely sales intelligence, we decided  to call ourselves SalesBeat.

Q. Who or what motivated you to be an entrepreneur? A. Alex has been entrepreneurial through most of his life. His first entrepreneurial venture was selling candy bars when he was 10. He made the candy bars, developed a brand, packaged them and labelled them himself. For me, working in & consulting for CPG companies was a catalyst. The industry as a whole is slow to change and adapt to their consumers. Having seen how the companies in this sector struggle on the inside, motivated me to be an entrepreneur. Also, one of my previous line managers started his

Q. What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A. People skills, creative thinking and passion (not really a skill, but critical to success!) ● People skills: People (management) skills & high EQ is an important one for start-ups. You need to attract great talent, hire a team, keep them motivated and focused, investor meetings and communication and sales. So, this is the one skill that is top of the list. ● Creative thinking: Several times during the start-up journey, things don’t go to plan. Thinking creatively about your alternatives and workaround solutions will help you get back on track.

● Passion: While we’ve listed this as the third, this is almost mandatory in our minds. Q. Tell us your biggest challenges you’ve had growing your business? A. Growing our business during the pandemic has been a challenge and otherwise.  Challenge in that, pre-pandemic, I would have met our customers/users at industry  events, had face to face conversations with them and got them to use us. However,  we’ve had to be creative during the pandemic and craft cold emails that would get the  decision makers’ attention, so we can get a meeting with them.  Q. What are some of your goals that you want to accomplish? A. Our goal is to eliminate out of stocks in stores, so consumers never have to settle for an alternative or go without. Out of stocks are not just frustrating for consumers, but for  some it can be debilitating. Eg: for certain differently abled people, having continued access to squeezy bottle versions of various table sauces and condiments is the key.  Q. If you can go anywhere in the world where would you go? A. Someplace where the sun shines every day and is close to the ocean and Alex agrees. Q. What is one fun fact about yourself? A. I paint whenever I have time and have held exhibitions of my art. Alex used to own and operate a restaurant in Utah. Q. Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur? A. No. Each entrepreneur has his or her own way of charting their paths to success. The one commonality is never giving up and believing in yourself and the problem you are solving. Alex argues that the definition of success can vary. What one may think is failure could be success for another. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. On our website - www.salesbeat.co , LinkedIn - Salesbeat.co; Twitter @salesbeatco &@outofstocknow and YouTube – Salesbeat.

WIB Magazine

29


“ Music has always been a source of healing for me as well as therapy whenever I play it. I find my peace through listening and playing."

Nico Franc 30

WIB Magazine


chapters in my life, and I attribute those chapters to the guitars that most inspired me at the time. I don’t own many guitars and I don’t plan to, but the ones I do own mean a lot to me for their comradery. Q. What are some of your goals for this year? A. I WANT TO RELEASE MUSIC THIS YEAR!!!! Q. If animals could talk what animal you think would be the most annoying to you? A. MOSQUITOS no doubt. They’ll taunt me saying “hey Nico, we want to hang out with you, just let us come hang out with you” and BOOM, then I’m itchy. lying bastards. Q. What do you think every music artist need to know about the music industry? A. Just listen closely, check your ego at the door, and always read the contract, always. Q. If you could collab with anyone who would it be with? A. Stevie Wonder, Lucky Daye, or Yebba

Q. It is a pleasure to interview with you. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. It was a pleasure to be interviewed, thanks for having me! My name is Nico Franc and I’m an artist. Q. What motivated you to be a music artist? A. It’s kind of funny cause I really don’t think I had much of a choice to be honest. It was this or nothing! I tell my parents all the time, “There’s no plan B”. Q. Tell us about this new App Clubhouse and what your experience been like being on this App? A. I love clubhouse because it’s an incredibly honest way to connect with people and perform! There’s no hiding and I love it. I’ve had such a wonderful time listening to amazing artists and connecting with amazing people. I host a room nightly from my own club “The Crave Sessions” and it’s called the Living Room where I invite three

artists/poets to the stage and create a space for them to not only perform but be interviewed as well! I have built it a little since we last spoke and we have a bunch of different hosts and it’s a really incredible time every night.

Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. They can follow me at: www.nicofranc.com Instagram @itsnicofranc clubhouse @nicofranc TikTok @nicofranc Twitter @itsnicofranc

Q. Can you tell us what music does for you when you listen to it what feeling do you get? A. Music has always been a source of healing for me as well as therapy whenever I play it. I find my peace through listening and playing. Q. I see you play the guitar; does it have a name? A. My guitars all have names and they’re named after the means by which I got them. For example, I worked the midnight shift at a hotdog stand for an entire summer just to buy my first guitar when I was 13 and called it Hotdog. My guitars are like old friends, I remember

WIB Magazine

31


“ What makes me different is my passion and taste in music. I'm the type of person who when I set my mind on reaching a destination, I dont stop until I do."

DJ M.O.S Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is DJ M.O.S., I've been a DJ for over 20 years. My wife DJ Kiss and I are official DJ's for the Academy Awards. I have had residencies at clubs such as Avenue Los Angeles, Hakkasan Las Vegas, 1OAK New York, LIV Miami, Base Dubai and VIP Room in Paris. I also was DJ for Diddy's TV show The Four on Fox.

32

WIB Magazine

Q. What made you want to be a DJ? A. Growing up in New York during the late 80's early 90s Hip Hop culture had exploded. I would stay up and listen to DJ's like Funkmaster Flex and Red Alert on the radio. I was obsessed, I'd fall asleep recording DJ's sets off the radio just to listen to the next day. That's when I caught the bug, so I took my allowance money and bought a pair of turntables and a mixer

off of a friend who didn't want his anymore for $50. I'd spend hours in my room practicing with the 8 records I owned lol. Q. Who would you consider to be a DJ Legend? A. That's a great question, there are so many. Red Alert because he's been such an integral part in so many legendary artists careers. He was the sound of New York for


a very long time. Funkmaster Flex is a legend because of what he did for New York radio and for his party with Jessica Rosenblum and Chris Lighty at the Tunnel Sunday nights. The Mecca at the Tunnel was the equivalent of LIV on Sunday 25 years ago. DJ Jazzy Jeff who's probably my favorite DJ right now, he revolutionized turntablism and what he's presently doing to help push the culture forward with the Playlist Retreat is really amazing. I have to also mention my big brothers DJ Clark Kent and DJ Scratch who have produced some of my favorite hip hop records of all time and both put on a show when they perform. Mark Ronson who went from DJing the coolest nightclubs in NYC to winning Grammys and Oscars. DJ AM for changing the game, there was no one like him at the time, and no one like him since. Rich Medina whose legendary party Lil Ricky's Rib Shack at APT changed my life, taught me so much about music and how to create a vibe. Tony Touch legendary B-Boy, MC and DJ. Stretch Armstrong, one of the pioneers of New York underground radio. Him and Bobbito Garcia introduced the world to acts like Wu-Tang, Nas and Jay-Z on their show on WKCR and my brother D-Nice, Boogie Down productions the TR-808, for showing the power of music to bring people together during dark times. What he did during quarantine was legendary! Q. Tell us one of your memorable moments you have had being a DJ? A. I'd say one of my most memorable moments was DJing Diddy's 50th birthday. It was one of the most incredible parties I'd ever played. Everyone from Kobe to Jay-Z was there. I played the main room before the performances then deejayed the after party inside his crib which started 3am and ended at 8. It was one of the last times I spoke with my guy Andre Harrell, rest in peace. Q. What are some of the challenges you have being a DJ? A. There are a lot of challenges being a DJ, especially on this level. We are a community but it's also very

type of person who when I set my mind on reaching a destination, I don't stop until I do. That's really how I've achieved most of what I have accomplished, hard work and being relentless. I also love music and I feel it shows when I play. I like to take a crowd on a journey. There's no better feeling than really connecting with a crowd and them following you along no matter where you decide to take them musically. Q. Tell us some of your goals you want to accomplish the next couple of years? A. In the next couple years I plan to drop my first album and continuing to produce music. Taking my virtual party Club Insomnia on the road and continuing to push DJ forward. Q. Can you give any advice to upcoming DJ’s? A. My best advice for up and coming DJ's would be know your music, do your research. Go listen out and really listen to the DJ's playing at parties or events you'd like you do. Get their early and leave late, that's best education you can get. Also be social!! Nobody hires someone they don't know. Form real relationships with people in the industry. competitive. When a new club opens or events season comes around everyone is competing for the same gigs, so you have to always be on point and continue to solidify your relationships with your clients. As music collectors we tend to be introverted by nature, but networking is equally as important as the music if you want to succeed in this business. Some of the other challenges would be resisting temptation, working in clubs and travelling the world, the drinks are always free and it's easy to get caught up. I've seen it happen before. You need to learn how to keep your head because you're orchestrating the night, and nobody likes a drunk conductor lol. Q. What differentiate you from the rest of the DJ? A. What makes me different is my passion and taste in music. I'm the

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. Right now my wife DJ Kiss and I signed a development deal with Landmark Studio to produce a scripted show based on our lives in NYC during the mid-2000's. It's about how we met and came up. We're really excited about that. I'm also producing for a couple of artists which you'll hear about soon. I've also been designing merch for my store www.theinsomniaclub.com. During lockdown I took that time to be creative and launch the merch line with my virtual party Club Insomnia. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me on:  djmos  djmos  twitch.tv/djmos6  soundcloud.com/djmos6  patreon.com/djmos www.djmos.com

WIB Magazine

33


34

Ad Dolphin

WIB Magazine


“I''ll say my favorite accomplishment is having the chance to help my mother get healthier."

Q. Tell everybody who you are, what you do and where you’re from. A. No problem. I’m AD Dolphin, the CEO of Dherbs, we’re a supplement company known for the full body cleanse. I’m from Los Angeles, California. Q. Who are some people that influenced you to be where you are today? A. I would probably say Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Steve Harvey, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., all the normal suspects haha. Q. Tell us about your business Dherbs and how it got started? A. Well I actually got started because I’m a serial entrepreneur. I always look for opportunities and people know that, so they bring things to me pretty much on a weekly, monthly and yearly basis. I’ve seen every business under the sun. So, 15 years ago I had just stopped playing basketball. I used to play professionally in Australia; playing every single day but now I wasn’t playing anymore. What happened was I began to gain weight. One of my friends introduced me to cleansing and I had such an amazing experience that I did

everyone’s cleanses under the sun. From that point on I noticed that they all had something special about all of them. Therefore, I put together an herbal team, found some herbalists and began to put together the best cleanse on the planet which is now my cleanse; Dherb full body cleanse. That’s how it came into existence; just by doing everyone’s cleanse, seeing something special then taking all the special qualities and putting it into one. Q. Awesome!!! How was the experience as a basketball player and coach in Australia? A. Aw man, the experience in Australia was amazing! I learned a lot. Going to Australia I left school early actually; I didn’t really get along with my college coach, so I decided to go pro early. When I went over there, I realized that your problems and your attitude tend to follow you so, I realized once I got there that I had to change my perspective on life; the way I deal with people, my outlook, everything. Otherwise I was going to find myself in the same situation I had in college. So, it was a life changing one. It was a learning experience that led me here.

Q. Okay, and you have an herbal cleanse that’s called the Dherb full body cleanse. What does that consist of and what does it do to the body? A. No problem, so the Dherb full body cleanse is a 20day cleanse. It consists of seven  different formulas all geared to clean out your channels. That’s your gallbladder, your  heart, your liver, your colon, your spleen, your lungs, your kidneys, your adrenals glands, your  blood and your skin. Along with that process, we ask you to make a dietary change. The change  that we ask you to make is that of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, raw nuts and raw seeds so  therefore, you’re going to be on a raw food diet. If you follow that dietary plan in combination with   the capsules: the results tend to be weight loss of 10-20 pounds, huge boost in energy, stronger  immune system, clearer skin, you’ll be able to focus and concentrate a lot better. To be honest, it’s a life changer. It changes your whole entire perspective on food and as far as energy levels; you’ll feel like you’re 12 years old all over again.

WIB Magazine

35


Q. Wow. So, what are some things you do in your free time? A. Free time. I work out every single day at 5:45 in the morning, that’s something I truly love to do. I also love going to the movies, hanging out with my girlfriend and that’s pretty much it.   Q. What has been one of your biggest accomplishments you’ve had so far in your career? A. I’ll say my favorite accomplishment is having the chance to help my mother get healthier. I helped my mother lose 60 pounds and she was going through menopause. I don’t know if you know anything about menopause but it messes with your hormone levels, making itmvery difficult to lose weight. That experience in those 6 months with my mom; I found it invaluable. It was just to help her change her outlook, change her perspective, get her healthier.  From prediabetic to no diabetes whatsoever, potentially being on high blood pressure  medication to never taking medication. That was probably one of the best experiences of my life  and like I said before just helping her lose 60 pounds. That was one of the best things I’ve ever  done. You would

confused. So Dherbs kitchen is basically a healthy  food service that we plan on launching in the next couple months. When you’re on the cleanse; you’ll be able to order your food and it will be dropped off at your doorstep. You will also be able to eat that food on or off the cleanse. Aiding people to get on a healthier path.

do anything for your mom; we had fun, we hung out a lot, it was amazing! Q. That’s awesome and congratulations to her too! Are there any projects you’re  working on right now or any events that you would like to share? A. We have a real big one called Dherbs kitchen. When we tell people to get on a raw  food diet: a lot of times people don’t really understand it. Even if you sit there and explain it to  them and walk them through it; they’re still

Q. Okay! Congratulations on that! What’s some advice or tips you can give someone who  wants to stay healthy?  A. I just think you have to set little small goals in front of you. Sometimes when you’re  overweight and you’re on medication, they think it’s going to happen instantly. That’s not really  how the body works, especially when you’re doing things naturally. I would say small goals, if  you need to lose 100 pounds, set the fact that you’re going to lose 10 pounds this month. That’s  what I really feel like people need to do, take goals in smaller steps so therefore they can see  themselves accomplish those goals to motivate them to what they’re truly trying to accomplish ultimately.  Q. I agree! What’s the best advice someone ever given you? A. I have two life lessons that I learned. The best advice are things that I saw: My mother  was an extremely hard worker, she worked every single day. She never called off sick and she  was able to accomplish a lot of goals. Through my mother, I learned that being persistent and  consistent is key. The one thing I learned from my father is that it’s okay to dream. The way my  mother and father thought was that dreaming is okay and then being consistent and persistent  is the way you accomplish goals. I was able to tackle the world and keep moving forward. Those  are the two things I pretty much live by.   Q. Where can everyone follow you? A. Everyone can follow me on all social media platforms @ addolphin

36

WIB Magazine


La Shana Latrice WIB Magazine

37


Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Hey, guys. My name is La Shana Latrice, and I am an artist from the UK, Birmingham. Q. Well, tell everybody how you got into the music industry? A. So, I've been singing my whole life. I've loved music from a very, very young age. I started to take it professionally rather than as a hobby at the end of 2018. And since then, I've just been putting everything that I've got into it. And I've grown up listening to my favorite artists, Mariah, Brandy, Monica and Destiny's Child, and I've just taken what they've done

38

WIB Magazine

and just been inspired by it and just trying to put it into my own art and do what I love to do, which is to sing. And that's how it came about. Q. Well, let's talk about this new single you have? A. Yes, let it flow, baby. Let it flow. That is the new single. Visual dropped, both on the same day.   So, for me with that song, it was about just expressing how I want things to be. Expressing how I want the people around me to be, and that's just letting full things flow. I think just letting go and just dealing with whatever it is that's happening, and just letting it go basically. That's kind of the

inspiration behind it. And I just put it into a song. I actually wrote parts of it before. And then when I heard the beat, I was like, yeah, this is the one. So, we just created it from then.  Q. I see you were raised by a single mother. So, how hard was that being that you were raised by a single mother dealing with the industry and music as well? A. Well, at the time, as I said, I wasn't really taking it as seriously. So, it was just like a hobby. I went to school, I studied it there. And it was just still all fun. It wasn't that serious. I did a few actual talent shows as well. And just little things


that I used to attend to as far as music goes. But it just was fun to me. So, it wasn't really anything that big of a deal really. My mom always wanted me to take it seriously, but I just saw the fun in it, to be honest, growing up. As I said, it wasn't until recently where I was like, okay, I have to take this seriously now. But having no siblings and it being me and my mom I've always been just always creating regardless whether it's been acting, dancing, drawing, or writing, I did modeling, makeup, and hair. I've always been doing something that has nothing and is turned into something. So, that's just always been me. Q. What are your plans now that you are in the US? A. I'm actually pushing music both

in the UK and the U.S. I still see myself as a UK artist 100%. So, I'm back home quite a lot as well. So, it's just that I'm based here now, and really just going hard internationally. Q. How is the music in the UK different than the US? A. Well, obviously, with my sound R&B, it's quite mellow. It's quite laid back and just chill. It's not really 100% appreciated back home. Back home it's very, like whatever's popular, whatever is trendy, that's just the wave. And that's just the time until something new comes in. And then that's whatever is going to be the buzz around for the time being. But as far as just R&B, I think it's slowly coming back. I think it's slowly getting its time. It's getting a

“ Stay unique, stay true. Dont let the industry change you."

little bit of light shined on it now. But we still have a long, long way to go with R&B becoming a household genre in the UK, in my opinion. So, I just felt like it was something that I really wanted to just come over here, where I know it is appreciated, and just make my mark, and then bring it home basically. That's kind of what I really want to do is just bring all the achievements and all the things that I succeed in and bring it home and show everyone home looks like, you guys need to take it in. Because everybody else is so why are you not taking it in? So, that's kind of what I'm really looking to do. But music as a whole in the UK the vibe is really good. I love UK music. It's a nice vibe. But again, it's really just about what's popular now. And it's kind of been like that for a hot minute. Q. So, what goals do you want to accomplish in the next couple of years? A. Wow, I haven't had that one asked. Well, I would definitely love to headline a big tour. A big, big, big tour. That's the main focus right now. But I just want to achieve so much, I want to be the best I can be. And I'm not doing it to stay mediocre. I'm doing it to go all the way. And my achievements will speak for itself really. I have goals. But they're the obvious goals like Grammy and BET awards, and stuff like that. Mobile awards and all that stuff. But my main goal really is just to make a change in the industry. And to just bring something that's different and new, and just make a name out of that really. Q. Lets talk about this song Get up? A. So, Get up, I feel like I've always tried to do something, and then I'll just get stuck. I'm like, okay, I've got this far what is the next level? I've done so many things as I said before. And it just gets to a point where I'm literally like, okay, what is the next level? I've done this, why is it not continuing to get higher or grow, and I just get stuck. And then it turned into being lazy and not really wanting to promote myself or put myself out there. And just stayed in the house, didn't want to do anything.

WIB Magazine

39


So, Get up is just basically me looking back at those times where I just felt stuck, and I didn't want to get up. So, it's basically me telling myself I got to get up. And then that's what led me to then start something new. And now I'm back to where I started, which is music, and I'm definitely not stuck.

I think the moment that I just got stuck, and then I fell into a funk, and then I got out my phone it was always like, okay, on to something different. I just did something different, really. Something I know I'm capable of, can it make me money? Maybe, let's give it a go. That's kind of was just my mentality, basically. But I kept seeing this constant cycle repeating itself repeating yourself repeating itself. But I don't regret it, though. Because at the end of the day, it brought me back here. So, I can now speak about it through my music and hopefully, people can relate to it. And also resolve the situation the way how I did.

Q. So, I also see that you use to model. So, what experiences did you go through when you were modeling to make you want to say, okay, I'm going to stop here, and then pursue going to music? A. I think for me, the turning point was when the social media editing game, the apps game just all got turned up to a whole different level. People are out here looking like catfish and getting bookings that I should be getting. And then there are people that are doing things for free. And just this whole perception of just wanting to be seen, and just wanting to be famous quickly. I think that was a big turn off for me, because it was like I really grafted years to work my way in the model industry. And as far as the glamour side goes. In the UK as a darkskinned woman, we get overlooked in the modeling industry. So, I was able to really start making money and making a name for myself, and something I was proud of, as well, because it wasn’t many that was doing it, to be honest. They were doing it, but they weren't really out there the way how I feel I was putting myself out there every single day, going hard going crazy. It was my main job. It was all freelance. I was with an agency,

40

WIB Magazine

but I was getting the jobs last, to be honest. So, it was just one of them ones. And when I saw the apps of editing, and the fillers and all these different things and it's like, I can't compete with that. I'll be honest I don't want to compete with that. I don't want to turn myself into a clone. I'm not going to do that just so I can continue to get booked. I'm not going to compete with that. So, I just had to look within myself again, and do another brain check. And then from there, it was just like, it's time to do music again, really. At least I can be myself without trying to look or be like anybody. I'm just me and people are going to take me in because I'm just being myself. Q. So, let me ask you out of all the songs that you made, what is your favorite song, and why? A. Definitely, I choose you. I've got a lot. By the way, I don't have one. If I had to choose one probably, I choose, But I choose you, where do I begin, Exhale love, my songs and Let it flow. They're like my favorite so far and just because all of them that I just named they're fun, but I'm still saying something meaningful, and that's true and honest and vulnerable as well. And that's why I like those more because they were the most challenging ones for me to write and to put together. Q. Who are some people you would love to collab with? A. I would love to collab with Sabrina Claudio, Daniel Caesar, and Summer Walker. They're my top ones so far, and Chris Brown as far as who is current and relevant now. Definitely. Q. What has been your biggest accomplishment you had so far in your music career. A. To be honest, I think my project that I released last year was a big accomplishment for me because it took a very long time to put it together. But in my opinion, it took about 14 months, so a year, and some change. But to me, that's like forever. It took a long while to kind of make sure that it was just the way how I wanted it to be. A lot of stress, a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, literally. I would say that's a big accomplishment so far right now. And it's received

a lot of good reviews. And it's reached Africa, and so many places I wouldn't even expect it to reach. And people messaging me and like, oh my gosh, I love this song. It's my favorite song from all these different parts of the world. And I'm just like, what the hell. I still consider myself just completely new to the industry and to the game. So, I was really only expecting UK and America. Obviously, Europe because it's still tied into it all. UK's small. But when we talk about these big countries, like Africa, Canada, and Australia. People messaging me and I'm like, where are you from? I'm like, wow. That's really nice. That's a really good feeling. Now,


my achievement next would be to headline my own show. And then go from there and just keep building up. That's what I wanted to have this year. This year definitely to headline my own show. That's what we're working towards. Q. What's the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? A. I have no idea. I don't think I have a best. Advice? I guess just staying unique, stay true. Don't let the industry change you. I think that will probably be the best. It's something that most people say, but it still is so important to take it on board. Q. Is there anything you want to tell the audience or do you have

any upcoming events that you would like to share? A. So actually, we'll be performing in Atlanta on May the 15th at a showcase there. I have a show in New Jersey on the 23rd. And I will be performing in DC, I think the 2nd of July, but all the information will be available on my website very, very soon.

do. Or it just sounds cool. I want it to actually make sense and have meaning in it. And, again, something that's honest. So, it gives people a way to know who I am without me having to really talk to anybody. I can just say, listen to my music, and that person will get an idea of the kind of person I am or what I'm about, or the type of person I am. Because I think a lot of people will see you and they'll judge you based on pictures or videos or just first impressions. But then they listen to the music, and if they're really listening, they're like, okay, wow, like she's actually been through some stuff or she's really got depth to her. It's not just all glitz, glam. There's a lot more than just that. And that's what I try to show. Because I feel like I do get a lot of judging by a cover. What's that saying? Don’t judge a book by its cover. And it's not that I'm trying to prove a point, but I feel like I'm just being honest. And I'm just being true. So, it helps me knowing that, well I’m not like this, but I'm actually like this. If that makes sense.

Q. With your music being so deep, or whatever, does it really give you any problem sharing music when you go deep into whatever you've been through? A. No, because I feel like that's what I'm supposed to do. I don't want to just do music, because it just is something that I just want to

I just enjoy talking about real things. When I'm listening to music, I want to hear and know the artists. It's all good going on interviews and stuff like that. But when you actually hear it through the music, I feel more connected to them. And that's how I want people to be with me. That's what makes me love Sabrina Claudio and Alex Isley and HER. That's what makes me love them so much right now. Because I don't even have to watch an interview, I feel like I know them. I feel like I can be real with them and have real conversations with them just through their music alone. So, that's the type of guys that I want to be in that company. So, I just take that, I'm inspired by that, and I try to say to myself, okay, this is what I love about them. And that's what I want to be. I want people to be able to connect with me, just from our music alone. And then the interviews and all that's just bonuses.

Q. Tell everybody where they can follow you? A. So you can follow me at La Shana Latrice. My website is www.lashanalatrice.net.

WIB Magazine

41


“Always be yourself, and never be afraid to shine to make others feel comfortable....”

BJ Coleman 42

WIB Magazine


up with the name because I am always wearing sunglasses and I always advice my talent to wear sunglasses because they are instant “image elevators.” I wanted to give the agency a name that identifies with our day-to-day practice. Q. What is one of your biggest challenges being in this industry? A. One of the biggest challenges being in entertainment and fashion industries is proving you belong. There’s a hierarchy in this business, a lot of which is based on race, gender and sexuality. While the business embraces difference in front of the camera, there is still a lot of discrimination behind the scenes, particularly if you don’t fit a specific mold.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell us who you are and where you’re from? A. I was born and raised in Washington, DC. I graduated from Boston College with a degree in communications.

Q. Tell us one fun fact about yourself? A. I love to collect Piggy Banks from around the world!

Q. What advice would you give to your younger self in order to pursue in today’s society? A. Always be yourself, and never be afraid to shine to make others feel comfortable… So many times, we dim our own light to appease others. I’m so glad I’m finally beyond that. Q. If you could change anything about the entertainment industry, what would it be? A. I would change the blatant and hidden racism that exists at agencies, studios, castings, in marketing and at other organizations. Q. Are you working on any new projects right now? A. I’ve always got something up my sleeve. But continuing to grow and build my empire is my main focus! Q. Where can the fans follow you? A. My primary social media account is my Instagram: @thebjcolemanshow.

Q. You have been in the entertainment industry for years now what has been one of your biggest accomplishment? A. My biggest accomplishment is running my own agency for the past 10 years. It started as a dream but has grown into a full-service boutique firm! Q. How was your experience being Kimora Less Simmons Personal Assistant? A. Working as a Personal Assistant was ok. It was grueling work, and Kimora was tough, but I learned a lot and it helped train me as a publicist and an entrepreneur. It also provided insight into a new realm of life that I had never experienced before growing up modestly in Washington, DC. Q. Tell us about your company “The Coleman Entertainment Group” and the inspiration behind it? A. My agency was renamed Image Elevators in 2018. We are a fullservice image and communications firm specializing in entertainment and fashion marketing and branding strategies for our clients. I came

WIB Magazine

43


“ My music is real and is typically music that I believe people can relate to.”

44

Money Marc

WIB Magazine


Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I go by the name Money Marc and I am an artist, a rapper. Q. Who inspired you to make music? A. At a young age being around my brother who was older, I became inspired by Atlanta  artists like Outkast, Gucci, Goodie Mob, and Jeezy, along with the Hot Boyz, Boosie, Yo Gotti and other “street rappers”. Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create? A. My music is real and is typically music that I believe people can relate to. Q. Tell us about your new album “Granny House” & the motivation behind it? A. Granny House is where it all started. Everything was at Granny House. I felt like everybody can relate to Granny House because for most people their Granny House was the main hub. Many  people can go to their granny house if they can’t go anywhere else, and if they can’t now, they  could at some point.

Q. Tell us some artist you would like to collaborate with? A. There are a few artists that I would love to collaborate with mainly from different states like Chicago. It’s hard to pinpoint which ones at this moment, but I want to do some different stuff. I wouldn’t mind collaborating with an R&B artist like Chris Brown. Q. How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business? A. The internet has allowed artists reach more people because that’s where people are. Sites likenYouTube and social media have made it much easier than handing out CDs. Q. Let’s talk about “Money Marc’s Foundation” and the journey behind it? A. Granny House is definitely part of the foundation, if not the foundation. Music was in my

face  and I had to be real with myself about whether or not I wanted to make music. I was in and out  of it, dealing with real life situations. It was when my brother passed away that I made the  decision to really take it seriously because he wanted me to focus on my artistry and do music.  There are also people depending on me to make it.  Q. What are some things you do on your spare time? A. Spend time with my kids and family. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Everywhere!! Lol IG: @4waymoneymarc Twitter: @4waymoneymarc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ MoneyMarc4way/featured Facebook: Money Marc.

Q. What is your favorite song off the album? A. It’s really hard to pick just one song, but if I had to choose it would be Thugs Cry. The beat really drew me in and when I heard the final product I was really pleased with the vocals and the  realness of the song.

WIB Magazine

45


DJ OF THE

MONTH

DJ M.O.S JUNE TOP 10

1. MICHAEL JACKSON ........................Baby Be Mine 2. STEVIE WONDER ............................. Superwoman 3. ARETHA FRANKLIN ..... Until You Come Back To Me 4. NAS ................................................. Life’s A Bitch 5. JAY-Z ........................................ Politics As Usual 6. KANYE WEST FEAT NAS ........................ We Major 7. REEL PEOPLE ... Can We Pretend (Tall Black Guy Remix) 8. LUCKY DAYE .................................. Roll Some Mo 9. JIMI HENDRIX .................................... Little Wing 10. 702 ............................................. I Still Love You




Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.