Escapades magazine september 2013 issue

A MENTORING MAGAZINE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ISSUE 2013

C H I C H A R I B E N A D E S I G N S A N D D A N C E

MALE ARTISTS Alex

JERRY “THE ICEMAN” BUTLER

Bugnon Ben E. King Bobby Womack Frankie Valli Freddie Jackson Gene Chandler Jeffrey Osborne Kem Anthony Hamilton

Female Artists Angie

Stone Jill Scott Nancy Wilson Regina Belle India Arie Gladys Knight Stephanie Mills Heather Hedley

Entertainment Consultants, Inc. Jerry Butler Productions Charles McMillan, Esq. - Artist Representation

1207 Penshurst Court Abingdon, Maryland 21009 USA Phone: 410-612-9426 Cell: 847-436-4270

Fax: 410-612-9427 E-mail: jbeci@aol.com

www.eci-jbproductions.com

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TO SUBMIT CONTENT TO US Escapades Magazine welcomes submissions from freelance writers adult and youth. All of our submissions are interviews. Feature interviews are designated by the theme of each month’s issue. All other interviews must be submitted as designated below: Our Writer’s Guidelines: 1. We look for interviews (original and reprint) in that we publish interviews that deal with a career or job position.

2. We always need images to go with an article. Photos should be high resolution (300 dpi) and of a good size.

Photos should also have descriptions accompanying them. Please don’t embed graphics in Word documents—make them an attachment (jpeg) in the email.

When downloading images from the Internet, please be sure they are large enough for us to use at 300 dpi.

3. When you’re sending several images, please indicate which you would prefer us to use if we can’t fit all of them in the article. Name each graphic by figure number (i.e., Figure 1, Figure 2). If you have original photos (slides, prints), please make sure you scan them at the appropriate dpi.

The author is fully responsible for identifying and obtaining publishing permissions for all information or images in the interview.

Contact: For submissions please email Escapades at escapadesmagazines@gmail.com

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Your magazine(s) sounds cool! Any writing jobs going at Escapades/E 4 Kids?

Yes. We always entertain articles from contributing writers. Go to http://escapades.wordpress.com and click on the “Submit Articles” tab and follow the directions to submitting content.

Articles/photos are submitted without payment to writers. We do not guarantee all articles/photos will be used. If you are a published writer, or would like to be, we do accept feature submissions, but bear in mind we recommend that you look through the magazine, identify the kind of material we publish and tailor any ideas around our current work.

All material used will be property of Escapades/E 4 Kids and the original writer(s). Any use of article/photo will be the decision and permission of writer/photographer and if used in Escapades/E 4 Kids will be notified or a notification will be printed at the bottom of the article being reprinted directing the readers to know that the article was previously used in one of Escapades/E 4 Kids issues/publications. Send ideas to escapades4kids@gmail.com.

I’ve got a suggestion for a photo in the fashion section!

We're always interested in seeing photos of fashion teens.

Please send any photos to us in a fashion show, model layout (not bathing suit; only casual, formal, or business clothing) email photo with details of model (name, city, state, age, school model attends, and permission of use of photo by teen model’s parent/guardian, and contact information of photographer/parent/guardian) before we use or review and photo. All submissions will be verified with photographer and parent/

guardian. Email to escapades4kids@gmail.com.

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Why of course! Head to email escapades4kids@gmail.com most months we throw in some wondrous free gifts, so go have a look what's on offer at the moment.

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There are plenty of opportunities to advertise in Escapades and/ or E 4 Kids. Please contact escapades4kids@gmail.com.

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If you have anything good that you'd like us to review or feature, drop us an email to escapades4kids@gmail.com. One email is usually enough, and we do read everything, honestly, so if you don't get a reply it probably means we're really busy and we will return your email as soon as possible.

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Email our subscriptions department at escapades4kids@gmail.com (Attn: Subscription Department) and let them know.

One of your articles on God / sex / women / men / monkeys / plastic moldings has deeply offended me. I want to complain in the strongest possible terms. To whom shall I address my letter?

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FEATURE INTERVIEW

32

DIANE BERRIOS 20

44

SOLO XQUIZIT CECY SANTANA

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE MONTH

OTHER INTERVIEWS

16

48

G-MAN, Scene Chicago

MRROYALTY DSWAYZE

56

ALL ABOUT YOU

26

LEON Q.

GEIR NESS

27 CHRISTOPHER SASHA

28 BEATRICE DAVIS

30 RON HICKS

31 SHON ED

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Page 6

Submit Your Content 7 FAQ 8 Masthead 11 Contributors/Photo Credit 14 Calendar of Events

42 BELLA COLUMN

60 MENTORING WORKSHOP CALENDAR

Escapades Publications Andre C. Smith: Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor in Chief Pippa F. Smith: Co-Founder/Chief Executive Officer Joan Ware-Benford: Asst. to the Chief Executive Officer AJ Segneri: Director of Business Development 1554 East 65th Street #109 Chicago, IL. 60637 Email: escapadesmagazines@gmail.com Phone: 872-221-4626

Joey Sherron: Photography Content Consultant Escapades Division Andre C. Smith Editor E 4 Kids Division Andre C. Smith Editor Bella Viola Columnist

To Contact our staff and departments: Escapades Publications Publisher/Editor in Chief Escapadesmagazines.editor@gmail.com

Roseann Isabella Columnist

Escapades Publications Chief Executive Officer Escapademagazine.editor@gmail.com

381 Fashion Magazine Pippa F. Smith Editor

Escapades Magazine escapadesmagazines@gmail.com

Roshona Morgan Fashion Editor

E 4 Kids Magazine escapades4kids@gmail.com

Genell Banks Columnist

381 Fashion Editor 381fashionmag.editor@gmail.com

Kat Blade Columnist

381 Fashion Magazine 381fashionmag@gmail.com

Escapades Radio Station Pippa F. Smith Station Manager

Escapades Radio Station Escapadesmagazines.radio@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTORS ConnetingYOUto Old School House Heads ECI, Inc. UVA Spa & Wine Boutique Foundation For A United Front Multi Kulti L’or D’afrique NFL Alumni Alex Ruiz Group LR Media Group Xquit Wear The PHAT Girls Show The Dianna Prince Pin Up Academy

Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 11 Page 11 Page 14/15 Page 16 Page 40 Page 41 Page 54 Page 55 Page 63

PHOTO CREDIT Nate Freeman

Front Cover, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39 Ripper Smoot Page 29, 64 Alex Ruiz Page 40 Amy Burlingame Page 53 Milton Andrews Photography Page 62/63 ALL PHOTOS ASSOCIATED WITH INTERVIEWS NOT LISTED ABOVE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE INTERVIEWEES BEING INTERVIEWED.

Escapades Magazine Mentoring Workshops October 14 Escapades Magazine Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti, 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 12pm - 1pm Special Guest: Shon Ed, “How to break into the Film/ Thearter Industry” Escapades Magazine Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti, 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 630pm - 730pm Special Guest: AJ Segneri, “How to organize a community event” October 28 Escapades Magazine Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti, 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 12pm - 1pm Special Guest: Leon Q with Special Guest, “How to break into the Music Industry” Escapades Magazine Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti, 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 630pm - 730pm Special Guest: Solo Xquizit, “Breaking into the Music Industry”

E381 Fashion Magazine Mentoring Workshops October 07 Escapades Publications Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 12pm to 1pm, Fashion Make Up Artistry with Avalla Escapades Publications Mentoring Workshop @ Multi Kulti 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 630pm - 730pm (Make up with Traci) October 21 Escapades Publications Brown Bag Workshop @ Multi Kulti 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 12pm to 1pm, Fashion Make Up with Khaqdija Escapades Publications Mentoring Workshop @ Multi Kulti 1000 North Milwaukee, Chicago, IL. 630pm - 730pm (Heidi Calaway/Fashion Designs)

Escapades Publications Internet Radio

Friends of Escapades Publications

Every Tuesday Escapades Publications Radio Station hosts “What’s Hot, What’s Not” starting October 22nd at 100pm t 130pm CST on www.blogtalkradio.com/escapadespublications

October 07

Escapades Publications Radio Station hosts “”Beat the Bullying” with Bella starting October 8th at 430pm to 500pm CST on www.blogtalkradio.com/escapadespublications

October 19 The Fashion Market presents Fashion Forward! Chicago, IL

National Bridal Market Chicago™ - trade only The Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL

October 21 Chicago Apparel & Accessories - Market Mondays trade only Merchandise Mart

Founder/Strategist SCENE-Chicago March 2009 – Present (4 years 6 months) Directing and coordinating an organization's financial and budget activities to fund operations, maximize investments, and increase efficiency.

Conferring with board members, organization officials, and staff members to discuss issues, coordinate activities, and resolve problems.

SCENE-Chicago’s event marketing consultants are experienced in all areas of marketing. Our staff specializes in developing realistic timelines for events, creating the “buzz” to get people to come out to events, and managing events ensuring an amazing experience that will keep people talking.

We invest time, money and expertise in to building and maintaining strong relationships with local vendors and service providers.

Our clients benefit from these relationships.

Analyzing operations to evaluate performance of a company and its staff in meeting objectives, and to determine areas of potential cost reduction, program improvement, or policy change.

SCENE-Chicago is committed to providing the highest level of service in the industry and is passionate about making sure that your event is a complete success. Let us help you get the most out of life here in Chicago by showing you where to have fun, eat and drink well, hear new music, and experience the best in local arts and entertainment.

Directing, planning, and implementing policies, objectives, and activities of organizations or businesses to ensure continuing operations, to maximize returns on investments, and to increase productivity.

Stay current on the trends and latest happenings in the industry by looking through our social media links and do not hesitate to reach out to us for any of your event needs.

Chicago’s Resource for Entertainment, Music, Art, Fashion, and Nightlife.

Email us Media@SCENE-Chicago.Com to schedule an appointment with our team.

SCENE-Chicago is the fastest-growing promotional and online guide organization in Chicago offering exceptional one-stop services for all your event planning, marketing and promotional needs. Our clients are people that enjoy Chicago’s A-list restaurants, bars, clubs and private lounges.

http://www.SCENE-Chicago.com http://www.linkedin.com/in/scenechicago https://twitter.com/SCENEchicago https://www.facebook.com/SCENEChicago/info

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The newest rising star from THE BEAUTIFUL LAND is invading America with her sultry vocals, sexy moves, hypnotizing rhythms, and intoxicating beauty. This Brazilian bombshell is the true epitome of the intricate influences of her native land, combined with the banging beats of America.

Based in the Midwestern metropolis of Chicago, this gorgeous work of art uses the power of her voice and dance to bring audiences into a world of celebration, exuberance and purpose. This is CECY SANTANA. Hailing from Sao Paulo, CECY SANTANA grew up in a musical family headed by her father, legendary Afro-Brazilian trumpeter Carlos Santana, who is known for his collaborations with Roberto Carlos, Gal Costa, and also played first trumpet for the Sao Paulo and Rio Symphony Orchestras. As a young musical prodigy, CECY excelled in flute and voice, and often performed in various church concerts and ministries. Her desire for musical superiority led her to the United States, and she landed in Chicago, Illinois with a dream to succeed.

Since her arrival in The United States, CECY SANTANA has worked in many musical genres such as house, dance, jam band, Brazilian Popular Music, traditional Brazilian music, and R & B. Her music has been featured in various conventions such as The Winter Music Conference in Miami, as well as in commercials and other forms of advertisements. As a performer she has guest appeared with bands such as the New Orleans powerhouse Galactic, and has opened up for mainstream recording artists such as Fantasia Barrino, Carl Thomas, and Roy Ayers.

Can you tell us about Cecy Santana Productions and its primary purpose and function? Also within the Cecy Santana Productions what type of educational and mentoring components does it have?

What is your feelings about music slowly being taken out of our schools due to the cutting of school budgets?

What are some of the accomplishments and even some of the pitfalls you have gone through in your career so far that new comers will have to come Currently, CECY is preparing to record and release across and deal with? her debut solo project, and she is also running CECY Within the music industry there is the fast growing SANTANA PRODUCTIONS, which focuses on the complete diaspora of Latin-American entertainment division of entertainers called “Indie Artists” do you feel that you may have by passed that due to the famproduction. And as the world turns to a new era in ily background you have? Also, do you think the Inmusic, you will be sure to find CECY SANTANA as die Artists along with the reality shows have rejuvea premier musical force among the greats of our nated the music industry? time.

Without knowing your full educational background Well Cecy let’s get this out of the way right from the in music; what is your feeling of our youth studying beginning; your dad was Carlos Santana the trumpet music as a degree before trying to break into the inplayer? What was it like growing up in that house? dustry?

You moved to Chicago, IL from Sao Paulo what do Music is an industry that changes every second beyou think was the hardest part of that move? Did tween YouTube and the reality shows how do you you feel that your career would succeed better if you stay on top of the industry and your craft? made the move?

What is in the near future for Cecy Santana and With the influence of your father Carlos Santana; what can we expect to see? what was the felling of education in your home?

Can you give our readers some advice related to the Can you tell us about how you first got your break new comers in the industry just thinking about being into the music industry and make such an impact on an artist and then advice related to trying to booking artists such as Fantasia and even Roy Ayers? events and producing their first CD? You have worked in various genres and of course your favorite is Brazilian/Latin-American what is the feeling you see makes this genre such a growing genre?

Well Cecy let’s get this out of the way right from the beginning; your dad was Carlos Santana the trumpet player? What was it like growing up in that house?

Yes, my dad is Carlos Santana the trumpet player.

A very well known trumpet player in Brazil. He is known for his collaborations with Roberto Carlos, Gal Costa, Joao Donato, Dorival Caymmi, and also played first trumpet for the Sao Paulo and Rio Symphony Orchestras. Growing up with in a family full of musicians influenced me to follow a similar path.

Since I was little my parents always motivated me to study music. I have primarily focused my career in being a vocalist but also learned how to play the flute and piano at an early age.

You moved to Chicago, IL from Sao Paulo what do you think was the hardest part of that move? Did you feel that your career would succeed better if you made the move?

The hardest part of my move from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Chicago, USA was to learn a new language and leave all my childhood friends behind. But I believe it was the best thing that has happened to me. I feel that in this Country I have a better opportunity to make a name for myself in the music Industry.

With the influence of your father Carlos Santana; what was the felling of education in your home?

Education has always been a priority growing up. Both my mother and father attended university in Brazil and My Father received two masters’ degrees from American universities.

Growing up my parents always encouraged us to seek education

opportunities.

Can you tell us about how you first got your break into the music industry and make such an impact on artists such as Fantasia and even Roy Ayers?

I first got my broke into the music industry as a lead singer of Chicago Samba.

As other producers and musicians saw some of my performances with Chicago Samba, I was asked to collaborate on other projects.

You have worked in various genres and of course your favorite is Brazilian/Latin-American what is the feeling you see makes this genre such a growing genre?

Brazilian/Latin-American genre is such a growing genre because of the happy feeling it gives to people. Samba is full of life and it makes people move.

Can you tell us about Cecy Santana Productions and its primary purpose and function? Also within the Cecy Santana Productions what type of educational and mentoring components does it have?

Cecy Santana Productions, which focuses on the complete diaspora of Latin-American entertainment production, primary purpose is to make great music that would appeal to a wide audience. We are a young company right now and those are growth plans for the future.

What are your feelings about music slowly being taken out of our schools due to the cutting of school budgets?

It’s sad. I strongly believe that music is just as important when it comes to the development of a child. It’s proven that music helps increase IQ’s.

What are some of the accomplishments and even some of the pitfalls you have gone through in your career so far that new comers will have to come across and deal with?

One of the biggest accomplishments I’ve had so far was to create a band of my own together with my business partner and manager Leon Q. Allen. The band is named after my name: “Cecy Santana Band” and since day one, great things have happened; we were invited to do a commercial for Alternative Clothing line, and we had the privilege to open for mainstream recording artists such as Fantasia Barrino, Carl Thomas, and Roy Ayers. Also as a song writer I had the privilege co-write in different house/dance music projects that succeeded. Last I heard, those songs were being played in different clubs within USA, Brazil and Germany. So far I’ve been fortunate and haven’t experienced any major pitfalls.

Within the music industry there is the fast growing division of entertainers called “Indie Artists” do you feel that you may have by passed that due to the family background you have? Also, do you think the Indie Artists along with the reality shows have rejuvenated the music industry?

Probably not, but with today’s social media and the internet, mainstream as well as indie artists can maximize their exposure which gives music listeners a lot more options to choose from.

Without knowing your full educational background in music; what is your feeling of our youth studying music as

a degree before trying to break into the industry?

I don’t think it is necessary but understanding the fundamentals is a great base to start from.

Music is an industry that changes every second between YouTube and the reality shows how do you stay on top of the industry and your craft?

I utilize a lot of social media like face book and you tube and am currently in the process of designing my own website.

What is in the near future for Cecy Santana and what can we expect to see?

I am working on my first CD and trying to play as many live gigs to get my name out there.

Can you give our readers some advice related to the new comers in the industry just thinking about being an artist and then advice related to trying to booking events and producing their first CD? My advice would be to truly understand whether you want to participate in this industry and if the answer is yes, just keep moving forward and looking for your big break. Stay focused and keep your face out there.

sold out in one hour and had a waiting list of 50 people! The odds of surviving were staggering; the odds of becoming successful were astronomical but Geir Ness does not know the meaning of words like “no, can’t and shouldn’t”. His determination to make his mother proud of his life’s accomplishments has pushed him to heights most would say is impossible.

From disasters in manufacturing, to an industry that wanted to see him fail, to an absolutely grueling 300-day a year travel schedule filled with personal and motivational television appearances and radio and magazine interviews, Geir maintains the most positive upbeat and optimistic outlook on life you will ever encounter.

Norway’s morning show “Good Morning Norway” featured him as a special guest and Norway’s television network did a special on him for prime-time television about his incredible life journey and story.

Armed with just a dream and $1000, Norwegian born, Geir Ness, set his sights on Los Angeles to become an actor, but fate had a different plan for him. His perseverance and commitment to excellence has earned him a well-deserved success.

In a business world where only a few survive and where everyone will tell you why you cannot succeed, Geir was determined and ready to take on the challenge. He knew he had one thing going for him and that was the belief he had in himself and his “go-get-it” attitude and to never to accept ‘no’ for an answer.

Armed with a $5 suit, a red carpet found in the trash and a photographer who could not afford film for his camera, Geir invited his fellow students from his acting school to pretend to know him as the mega celebrity from Norway. He staged a publicity event at Nordstrom’s, ultimately landing him his first order of 1000 bottles. Nordstrom’s believed the order would last 3 months; instead Geir

As Norway’s first fragrance and handbag designer, Geir has made his mark in the beauty and fashion industry as an entrepreneur and humanitarian. His company, Laila, was named after his mother, a tribute to her. Today, Geir has not only surpassed his goals but also helps many people he encounters.

Not only is he a successful designer, Geir is a motivational speaker and speaks at schools and seminars throughout the USA and Europe to help others stay focused on the road to success.

His success story earned the attention of Hollywood and he is currently having discussions with them to have his story turned into a screenplay and feature film!

Geir donates both his time and money to a number of foundations such as the Norwegian Cancer Society, Chicago’s Children Medical Research Foundation, Susan G. Komen Foundation and recently, he joined the “I am 4 Kids Foundation”.

In the words of Geir Ness…..”The American Dream can come true and it does not stop here, always more to come!”

Christopher Sasha is a highly respected healthy/ lifestyle consultant, successful male model, author, entrepreneur, and healthbodyologist whose clients comprise a veritable Who’s Who list of business leaders and celebrities.

Author of the recently-released book Transforming Your Lifestyle One Belief at a Time (ABsolutely FABulously FIT, LLC, 2012), Sasha’s background and life experiences aren’t exactly typical of the hugely successful business person. Voted “Most Likely to Spend His Life in Jail” by his high school classmates, Sasha had numerous scrapes with the law growing up on the gritty streets of Chicago. Losing his mother when he was just eight, and with he and his four siblings proving too much for his father, he was bounced around from one foster home to another. He was scrawny, nearly-emaciated at times and always picked last as a teammate on

the playground.

Graduating from high school with a 1.1 grade point average (“They just wanted to be rid of me so they gave me a diploma,” he says), Sasha was admittedly insecure, with low selfesteem and little hope of a productive future.

After working menial jobs, he tried a stint in the Navy for no better reason than having been inspired by the movie Top Gun. “It was nothing like the movie,” Sasha laughs, but later in life he would come to appreciate the lessons of discipline the Navy imparted to him. Coming home, he enrolled in the local community college but flunked the entrance exam (“I think I even misspelled my own name”) and was forced to take remedial math and English courses.

Never stopping and keep moving on to new projects her latest adventure is a new internet talk show called “Undercover Talk”.

Created and produced by Sassy B Worldwide Productions, Inc. with an audience target towards the Baby Boomer Generation.

The internet talk show is about sex, love, romance and many other hot topics. Her high degree of expertise and organizational skills has enabled her to mount successful tours, sporting and high profile events.

Prior to establishing Sassy B. Worldwide Productions Inc., Beatrice Davis served as tour manager, entertainment coordinator and consultant for some of the finest athletes and artist's of the world including B.B. King, Ray Charles, Liza Minnelli, Elton John, Common, Will Smith, Ice T, Too Short, Commodores, SOS Band, former baseball player Dave Stewart, former football player Emery Moorehead, former basketball player Dennis Rodman, Ivana Trump, Gypsy Kings and R. Kelly.

In 2000 she became the personal assistant and public relations consultant for the international Norwegian celebrity designer and philanthropist Geir Ness. Never stopping and always ready for new business venture, in July 2006 she took on a new and a amazing challenge, managing the largest living athlete in the world and former world amateur sumo champion Emanuel Yarbrough (AKA Tiny).

In March 2013 she joined forces with entertainment expert Mary Iwaniki as her partner to lead the booking department, to represent on a non exclusive term, Fran Capo the world fasted talking woman in the world and 5 time world record holder, VIP Scene Chicago Promotions and Marketing Firm, celebrity healthbodyologist Christopher Sasha, world renowned actor and motivational speaker Kevin Sorbo and actress and motivational speaker Barbara Niven.

Beatrice Davis successfully venture into many facets of the entertainment industry, including consulting, coordinating music festivals, organizing special sporting & corporate events, promotional campaigns for various sports celebrities as well as productions of music videos, low budget movies and short films.

A native of Switzerland, Beatrice Davis has hosted radio talk shows in Germany (Stuttgart Stadt Radio World Wide Entertainment News), and her industry related articles have been published in German music magazines (DJ Magazine, German Dance Magazine and several others). In the past Beatrice has been featured on many television and radio shows around the world and featured in magazines and news papers.

In 2007 she founded the on-line magazine No Strings Attached E News. The magazine allows writers to publish articles what normally may not be published through other magazine. Freedom in creativity, writing and expressing each individual opinion is the main purpose of the magazine.

Her nonprofit affiliations and commitments are: Children’s Medical Research Foundation; Athletes Against Drugs; Rising Sun Ranch; Fish Inc.; SumoKids Foundation; Little Angles; I am 4 Kids Foundation; Lydia’s Home and Champ Community Project.org; Beauty In Beauty Out Tour.

Board member of PZM a new fashion company for motorsports clothing Board member of Academy of Mutual Interest in Motion Pictures

An Escapades Publication

SEPTEMBER 2013

THE NEW LOOK OF MODELING

CHECK OUT OUR FASHION MENTORING MAGAZINE 381 FASHION TO ORDER YOUR COPY CONTACT US AT escapadesmagazines@gmail.com

Ron Hicks played a West Aurora High School and was All State in basketball for 2 years and All American. He went and played at NIU (Northern Illinois University). He also played for 10 years in France, Sweden, and Holland. He was Men’s Head Coach at IIT in Chicago, IL. And Women’s Head Coach at Malcolm X College.

He now is CEO and Founder of the Chicago Steam Basketball team and runs a youth AAU program for ages 10 – 16. The Chicago Steam is a pro basketball team that plays in the ABA pro league. They have had several former NBA pro players play such as Rico Hill of the LA Clippers, Nate Driggers of the Boston Celtics, Shelly Clark of the Washington Wizards and Sam Mack of the Houston Rockets. We have sent over 29 players to Europe and China. We have been on tour several time and we are in currently in our 6th season.

Along with being the CEO and Founder of the Chicago Steam I am the CEO and Founder of the Chicago Lady Steam that plays in the WNBA pro league which is in its 5th season.

Visit us on our website at chicagosteambasketball.com

Eddie Shon McGregory born Eddie Dashon Levar McGregory and I go by Shon McGregory, in Chicago, IL., on August 1. I always wanted to be an actor since I was a kid, and never did it until I started acting in the 90’s, but stopped to work a normal job. Last year I started back acting and so far I was a sound guy for a movie and got cast for a couple of independent films, and 4 commercials.

My plans is to be one of the best actors in the world; but before I started acting I worked in the financial industry (financial advising, investments, loans, and insurance). In my film career I was a camera guy for a film, a zombie in a stage play, and cast in a 10 week long stage play beginning in October of this year.

C H I

C H A R I B E N A D E S I G N S A N D D A N C E

Lady Di (Diane Berrios) is a Humboldt Park native, born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her artistry spans across the performance and visual realms. As an entrepreneur, Diane took her love for dance (a contribution of over 15 years) and created Chi~Caribena Designs. She is also a fitness and dance instructor in the areas of Brazilian, Caribbean, contemporary Latin dance, and the fitness format, Zumba (Basic I and II).

Di’s gift for dance is truly unconventional. Di's mother was financially unable to provide her daughter with formal dance training. So Di’s dance teachers were as she states, “My mother (a social dancer in Puerto Rico), Don Cornelius, Dick Clark, Daisy Fuentes, and the Solid Gold dancers”. It took a sprained ankle to make Di realize that time was not her side and she needed to follow her dream to dance. Not finding her calling in ballet, modern and flamenco, it was in Brazilian dance that Di found her stomping grounds. In 2001, she received disciplined training in Brazilian dance from instructor and Brazilian native, Edilson Lima and Shirley Vieira, founders of Samba 1 Dance Troupe. She performed regularly as one of their dancers. Later in 2004, she competed and was crowned Queen of Chicago Samba.

Di’s continued to follow the call of the drum and it took her back into the realms of Chicago house music with international performing artist, Peven Everett and his band, Séance Devine. She performed and travelled regularly with the band as a sole dancer and her sparks ignited in New York when she performed with the band on NBC's

television late night show, "Last Call with Carson Daly" and in Miami’s Winter Music Conference.

She later began studying Caribbean dance and history and started the company, Chi~Caribena Designs. She assisted the C.C.C.A. (Chicago Caribbean Carnival Association) and C.A.M.A. (Caribbean American Midwest Association) at cultural events, schools, the annual Carnival parade, and benefits with her costumes and performances. Di also continues to share her knowledge with other dancers by educating them about the variety of Caribbean dances and music.

Di’s worked in national campaigns with large companies including Malibu Rum, Leblon Cachaça, and Macys Department Store while sharing her love for dance and design. Her love for dance even made her a viral sensation in the video “Samba Girl vs. the Chicago Blizzard” which captured her essence, bravery, and was featured on CNN, ABC, FOfun loving nature of dance and performance. The video was viewed by over 60,000 viewers in less than a week and Caribbean Airlines made her dream a reality and paid for her to trip to Carnival in Trinidad. Her hard work has been recognized by magazines, Hot Stepz Magazine, and Latino Social Magazine, The Woman’s Art Museum, and the State of Illinois Chicago as a performer/entrepreneur who has contributed to the Latino, African, Brazilian, and Caribbean dance community.

Currently, Diane teaches Zumba and dance throughout Illinois. She is also an assistant teacher at the Rainforest Learning Center Environmental School for the Arts. She will continue to share her creative work wherever she can and is a prime example of making dreams a reality.

Can you tell us how you began your interest in dancing and what made you pick dancing in your life?

I would like to believe I inherited the love for dance from my mother. When me and my sister, Debby, were young my mother would love to dance around the house with us. I can remember her spinning us around when salsa and merengue songs were playing. I just remember dancing made me very happy and despite the fact that we were poor and my mother was unable to afford to take me to dance class and continue my dance education, I found a way to learn in the basements and backyards of friends homes. I even had a break dancing crew (Crash Crew) practice in the my mom's living room. Back in the day, we also had shows like Soul Train, Latino MTV (when they actually had videos), American Bandstand, Solid Gold, and many Latino shows like the Calle Ocho Concert held in Miami. It was that show specifically where I first saw the Brazilian lambada. I wanted to be the little girl in the Kaoma video, Lambada.

Who was your mentor when you were growing up in the dance industry? What did the mentor do for you?

Sadly, I didn’t have a mentor when I was young; my mentors

were virtual. I enjoyed watching Puerto Rican performing artists like Iris Chacon on TV. She was a fun performer and was extremely proud of her curvaous body. I really think that if I had a mentor when I was young, I would have a clear direction of where to take my talent.

Nonetheless, when I entered the world of Brazilian dance, Ingrid Carillo, who was the Chicago Samba Queen 2001 and also a Non -Brazilian, helped me perfect my samba skills. This would be a perfect time for me show my gratitude for the time she spent with me. I believe her contribution to my dance education helped me successfully compete and win the Chicago Samba Queen Title in 2004.

Can you explain to our readers what is the fundamental background of Latin dancing and can you explain the different types of dance?

(Eeks! This could turn into another article!)

Can you tell our readers what Edilson Lima and Shirley Vieira mean to your career and what lessons you learned from them?

I read that you performed with Peven Everett and his band on the late night show “Last Call with Carson Daly� what was that like for you?

Edilson and Shirley are like my godparents of the Chicago Brazilian community. They educated me and other Non-Brazilians about their culture and eventually took a chance on me to dance with Samba 1 Dance Troupe. I was very blessed to live out my lost childhood dream because of these wonderful souls. Without them, I would be sitting behind a desk at a bank and still dreaming about dancing instead of doing it.

Working with a talented performing artist such as Peven Everett is surreal, but performing on national television had me awestruck. Carson Daly was a real laid back guy and it was just such an honor to perform and represent Chicago artists. I think my only regret is that I did not dance in a carnival costume

Alot of dancers got their education from Edilson, Shirley, and even the multitalented Dill Costa. What's sad is that some dancers learn from these wonderful teachers and move on and never give them credit to their current success. It's a damn shame, because without them, we would not be where we are at. They deserve to be recognized for all of their contributions to building diversity in the Chicago cultural arts community.

As your career began to take off you went back to school and studied more in the history of Caribbean dance; and then began your present company Chi-Caribena Designs. What does your company specifically do?

Chi-Caribena is my artistic vision and hobby gone wild! My business stems from art and cultural education, dance performance and instruction, and costume design and presentation. It started with on oversized headdress. Now I find myself running fashion shows, going to school and presenting the history of carnival, performing throughout the city at social events, festivals and dance workshops. I'm going everywhere I can to showcase my worldly carnival vision covered in sequins, feathers, and I bet one day, in blue paint.

As a business woman you are one of the leaders in dance; how does this fame help you with giving back to others in various communities?

I realize giving back is very important for the soul. With that, my Chi-Caribena has donated performances for fundraisers that assisted the Haitian Earthquake and the China Earthquake. I also helped costume dancers for a Gulf Oil Spill Fundraiser in New York. I have traveled throughout the state and presented costume and dance workshops, choreography assistance, free performances, dance classes, and cultural education to schools, colleges and universities such as Columbia College, Roosevelt University, Northeastern University, LaSalle Language Academy, Vincent DePaul Center, Truman College, and the Chicago State University. I don't see myself as a leader in dance but more like an cultural educator and visionary in the performing arts. I have touched many lives, but not enough to call me a leader. I have done more than I could ever dream and my way of giving back. Educating and passing the torch to the future is my wholehearted way of giving back.

Can you tell some of our readers what have been some of your greatest accomplishments and some of your pitfalls that you have overcome?

A few of my accomplishments include being commissioned to design carnival costumes for Macy's, being able to travel to Trinidad and being able to participate in Carnival and just being able to continue to represent with Chi-Caribena.

One of my major pitfalls is starting over. Chi-Caribena has resurfaced over 3 times. The first time I pulled out of my own vision when I taken on a partner and we had creative differences, the second time was when I had a mutiny with my own dance troupe.

And finally and the most heartbreaking one that almost killed my art spirit was when I went through my divorce. My ex-husband stole over $5,000 of business earnings and destroyed half of my costumes. I think that was more like a black hole. This was where I almost gave up. I even left back to Puerto Rico on a one-way ticket. But during my stay I remember standing in the of a hurricane and understood the words of my dear cousin Mary Ruiz, "Your talent is your hands and feet. You can start over."

What advice can you give to some of our readers within the dance industry? And what do you think some of the reality dance shows such as “Dancing with the Stars� done for the Latin dancing industry and to your business?

For those seasonally trained and those who are gifted performers, I would simply say, protect your gift/talent and learn the roots and reason of why you dance.

There's a sense in beauty and awe of dance and with the possible opportunity to shine in the spotlight, but some people get too hungry that they try to maliciously steal others hard work, ideas, and even money. And although the idea of getting rich and famous for your talent is a wonderful thing, you have to understand that you have to work harder to protect yourselves from the middle man. Read your contracts CAREFULLY before signing your dance career away, work with people you can trust and understand their intentions, and protect your work with copyrights and patents. Just stay true your path and don't sell out for the promise of fame and fortune. There's no fast path to riches. I've been scammed and robbed by other dancers, promoters, and other wanna be agents. But I stay true to my gifts and I am now rich in experience.

With that said, We dance to express ourselves but what message are we really trying to convey? A fellow dancer and dear friend, Sengvaley Aphay (Kid Jungle) shared with me that we need to not use dance terms so loosely. So, I would also add to my advice to learn about the history of what you are dancing and why you are dancing.

I think dances shows have open the up the dance floor and have made dancing fun and exciting again. I sit there with my dance partner Zenaida Saez and friend Buzz Smith and watch these show with such excitement to see how dance has evolve. I still wish that some of the general public could understand the difference between salsa (dance from Puerto Rico) and samba (dance from Brazil). I still can't help but to stop and giggle about it. But I don't mind because it gives me an opportunity to correct them and properly educate them.

I notice that you do lessons for the Rainforest Learning Center Environmental School for Arts what is your actual role there and what ages do you teach?

I am an assistant teacher at Rainforest. It's an early childhood learning center that base itself curriculum around the arts (dance, music, and art). I have been fortunate to work with the 3-6 years olds and 15-24 month olds. In Fall of 2013, I will starting the school year working with full toddlers (age 2). I'm really excited to see what these younglings are able to do.

With the school systems around the world closing down programs such as music and other after school activities do you think Latin dancing has any chance of making a comeback in the school systems?

My concern is not only of the Latin dance but of all dance, as a whole. I just read about how the Teacher's union are appalled about the budget cuts that are affecting funding in art and music programs. In many schools students are stuck to desk and chair for more than eight hours a day and programmed in Math, English and Science without an outlet to express themselves.

Unless parents have the extra income, many low income students find themselves without an creative outlet except for playing video games, watching television, or hanging out in the corners.

As a fellow educator, I find that extremely frustrating. Artistic expression is important to students and be utilized in the school system because, schools are so busy nurturing our future doctors and lawyers, but what about our future artists? How we will we be able to grow our future Dunhams and Allens if there is no funding? I really hope that school systems understand the importance of artistic expression and get funding for these programs, but not only for the chosen few, but for all students. Dance, music, and art is important to continue to nurture our future creative story tellers.

What can you tell me is Diane Berrios future plans for herself and for her company Chi-Caribena Designs?

As a person who lives like water, I hope that one day, the city will recognize my work and I can share my story and my craft with other younger generations in a broader scale. I also would like to go back to Trinidad to continue my education and learn more from this beautiful culture , so that I can bring this knowledge back in the states. And finally I would love to collaborate with a soca/calypso band and teach at next years Summer Dance.

Our city would definitely enjoy the sights and sounds from the islands.

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Isabella “IV” Viola is an amiable songstress from the North West side of Chicago, IL born on August 14th, 1997. She is responsible for popular songs such as “Fresh Kicks” and “Carried Away” which currently on average receives a number of (?) hits a day on her website from over 70 plus countries around the world. Isabella Viola, is also a model who, has worked with magazines and bloggers all over the Chicago land area. Tenola Plaxicophotographer has described her as a “Dream” to work with.

IV is the last born of three, with Gianna and Anthony as her older siblings. Her father five-time golden glove champion Anthony Viola and mother Roseann Viola. “Since I could remember, Isabella has always loved to perform” says Roseann Viola. “She would dress up in my clothes and perform her favorite songs for the family for hours.” At the tender age of 8 Isabella attended her first photo shoot and agency audition; the executives of John Casablanca’s loved her. She had the posture of a professional. This would be first of many compliments for the young model. Isabella went strong over the years wowing photographers and “stunning” industry professionals. That was until eighth grade she met someone who felt differently, a classmate. “School became harder than it was supposed to be.” Some of Isabella’s Classmates would cruelly tease her and call her names such as “Garbage-Can Swag” and “Cereal Box Girl” because she dressed differently and did not support their “party mentality” than the other students at her middle school.

“There were so many times when I wanted to quit” but she didn’t, instead she chose to pursue a different crowd of friends, Isabella explains. She became friends with teenagers who were not in the “popular” crowd and looked and dressed differently. She had much in common with them. She also chose to turn her talents to music. Her family, friends, and teacher; Isabella partially described as her mentor encouraged her to keep pushing. Mr. Collins a former artist and reading teacher at her junior high school constantly reminded her of the blessing of creativeness she had received. Before her transition to high school he left her with a song and a quote. He wrote to her in her memory book. “The Future is Unwritten”- by The Clash These words were lyrics to a song he’d play on his guitar during class. This motivated her more than anything had ever motivated her before.

Consequently, her radiant personality, and modernistic style of fashion eventually caught on amongst her classmates “everyone should be accepted”. Certain elements that made her different in junior high school were the very things that drew her people to her in high school. “I’ve never done what the other kids do. While they’re out smoking and drinking, I’m at home writing and creating new music. This is why I know I have a bright future ahead of me” Today Isabella is an advocate for bullying and is currently working on her new album in partnership with Akata Music Publishing label. She lives her life by the phrase “I am who I am” and is definitely someone to know.

“IT’S GOING DOWN”

Hailing from the Dirty 130's on Chicagos south side, we introduce to you one of Chicago's up and coming entertainers, Solo Xquzit. Solo Xquzit was born and raised up on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. While growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, but at the tender age of 10, he found his passion for entertainment.

He was influenced by some of raps biggest and brightest such as 2Pac, Biggie, Nelly, and Jay Z. Solo's style and writing brings music and experiences that everyday people can relate to. As a youth and a teenager, he has won many talent competitions, he won first place in the Austin Town Hall Showcase. Undeterred by the competition, Solo’s performances on one of Chicago's number one talent promotion show, The Royce Glamour Show, was by far a performance that lite up the place.

Honing his craft at various open mics and talent shows around the city, he has gained a huge fanbase. He has performed at The Regal Theater, Reggies Rock Club, Bobby McGee's, Redemption Theater; at the ATL. vs. CHITOWN battle competition, Blue Star Lounge and etc., promoting his single," IT'S GOING DOWN," Solo attack's the track with a way that will have you on the edge of your seat, so he knows what paying his dues is all about.

Solo was once asked," How do he see his self in the music industry?" Solo answered, "I'm not trying to be a follower or change the game. I'm trying to overcome the impossible when people told me it was a waste of time, and at the same time I'm trying to start trends." He is ready to show the entire world what he has to offer to the world of music. I must say Solo Xquzit is one of Chicago's rising stars.

Solo Xquzit has appeared on Channel 7 news for Community Action Day and interviewed by Evelyn Holmes as a Mentor and Youth leader to talk on issues about stopping the violence withing Chicago,IL. Solo Xquzit has been given the Community Spirit Award by Karen Jordan at the annual All Stars luncheon for his excellent job mentoring the kids, youth and young adults and for being a community leader. Also, Solo Xquzit has been to City Hall in Chicago,IL to talk about the Violence within Chicago along with Cease fire Tio Hardman, David Cherry, Andrea Hood and Diane Latiker of Kids Off The Block.

Can you tell us some of your biggest mentors in music that have made you what you are as a man and an artist?

I had a mentor by the name of Geno who was a Chicago hiphop rap artist. He would take me to the studio with him and I would study how he wrote songs and clever ways of recording them. I learned a lot from him. He would tell me no matter what always keep family first and when in this music business stay true to you and always have a backup plan.

Can you tell us what you feel your platform is in your music and what have you done to give back to the communities?

I'm on a high platform in my music career. When I go out to eat and shopping people come up to me for autographs and pictures. I'm active in the communities mentoring kids, teens, and young adults about life and education.

What is your opinion about the state of music today and what music was like when you were growing up?

Can you tell us what sparked your passion in entertainment and what is the influence that drives your career?

What sparks my passion for entertainment was when I was in the 5th grade. I had entered into the school talent show and won first place. My mother and father had no idea I had any music talent so they went out and brought me a radio and a mic. What influences my drive is my fans, my family, and my team Mechanical Beats Productions. Every time a fan comes up to me for an autograph or to take a picture the feeling is indescribable.

A lot of today’s up and coming (Indie artists) have no idea about artists like Biggie and 2Pac, but they use snippets of their music in their beats. What do you think is your opinion of why is there a separation of knowledge in our music history?

I feel today's artist don't take the time to learn the business or do research on music history. Some of these new artists don't have mentors to guide them in the right direction.

Can you tell us what is your background in education related to your music career? And what are your plans for continuing education in the future?

I was in my high school band learning to play the drums and read music. I don't plan on going back to school but considered it.

The state of music today is all about what you have and how much money you have. When I was growing up music was about lyrics with a story to tell. It was what I call real hiphop. Not to say today's music is not hip-hop but when I was coming up you had artist like KRS1, NAS, BIGGIE, 2PAC, and the group OUTKAST. Can you tell us about some of your recognitions; why you got them and what they mean to you?

I was presented with the Artist Appreciation Award, Chicago Emerging Star Award, and Community Spirit Award. I was given the Artist Appreciation Award for my showmanship in the music industry and in life. I was given the Chicago

cal Beats Productions. Also my clothing line Xquzit Wear is set to be re-launched in 2014. I'll be dropping a new single but I haven't decided on a release date as of yet.

When you are preparing for a performance what is your routine and what is it like once you walk on that stage for the performance?

Emerging Star Award for my outstanding performances and my growth in the music industry. I was given the Community Spirit Award for being a role model in the communities and for mentoring the youth, kids and young adults.

What advice can you give to youth about getting into the music industry?

They need to learn the business first. Secondly, know who you are as an artist. Last but not least believe and never give up and know that to be successful you have to invest and have a team behind you.

What should youth look at when trying to break into the industry in regards to the do’s and don’ts?

Always stay reading books to enhance vocabulary and stay writing songs. I would tell them to never look for handouts and don't do music for fame or just to be rich because you may never make it.

What is a normal day of the music artist Solo Xquzit?

A normal day for me when I'm not on tour or at any interviews or recording music I spend time with my 7 year old son Treyvion. I also catch up on TV shows and play video games. Most importantly I attend church to thank GOD for all of his blessings.

So what projects do you have for the future that you can discuss right now?

I'm currently working on my album in the studio with Mechani-

When I'm preparing for a performance I workout and practice the whole week of the show. I meet with my promo team Xquzit Promotions and MBP Promotions to get the promotion going on the event for that week. I get my haircut the day of the show. On my way to perform I take a few shots of Ciroc to get in what I call turn up mode. When I hit the stage and I hear everybody screaming and singing my songs it’s a feeling that hard to describe. It feels good.

Can you tell our readers what is the importance of management and representation for an artist and even an Indie artist?

To have management and representation is very important in this business. It makes the artist look professional.

Having a manager you can count on him or her to take care of getting paperwork done and documents signed. A manager looks to make the best decision for the artist.

What is it like being involved with mentoring youth and what is its importance to you?

Mentoring the youth is great for me. I'm able to show them that there is hope and that someone really cares about them. Its importance to me is to be the role model they can really look up to. If I can save just one kid then I know others will follow because that one kid could grow up and be our future leader.

Thank you for the interview, SOLO XQUZIT.........

Crusher, Huey, Lil Whyte, and Twista.

On July, 14 2013 the anniversary of his cousins death DSwayze released his "Who I Am" album and video at Clancy's Pub in Scottsdale, AZ. Daniel Shouse's (DSwayze) driving force is his cousin Roy and his dream is to pursue their dream through hard work and dedication.

Ultimately hoping to inspire the youth musically and influence them to make good decisions with a positive mindset.

Dswayze is currently working with Chris Milz out of Las Vegas on a new project

Daniel L. Shouse was born in Terre Haute, Indiana to Tonya Shelton and Daniel Shouse Sr. He attended high school in Nebraska where he became a very skilled basketball player.

At age 8 Daniel sang in church with his cousin/best friend Roy G. Ware. Over several years the two boys developed a passion for music and later formed a Christian rap group called "New Hope" performing from Indiana to Nebraska.

In 2006 Daniel and Roy moved to Phoenix, AZ where he worked with Suggs Ent. where he assumed his stage name DSwayze.

In 2008, after the unfortunate violent death of his cousin Roy DSwayze found himself at a crossroad in his life. He soon formed ROYALTY ENT. in honor of his cousin.

Since 2008 Dswayze has mentored local teenagers hoping to inspire the youth to pusue music as a alternative to hanging in the streets. He has made way for several teenagers to write, record, and release their music locally.

Dswayze's journey has carried him from Indiana to performing in Nebraska, Illinois, Vegas, Arizona, Texas, and California with artist such as Rass Kass, Gorilla Zoe, Bone

Daniel we see you started in the music industry when you were 8 years old singing in church and later developed a Christian rap group; what was your inspiration in doing this?

My grandfather David Shouse was a well known pastor of New Hope Church of God and Christ in Terre Haute, Indiana.

My father was overseas playing basketball and my mother worked full time so I spent a lot of my time with my grandfather as a boy and that is where I first developed a relationship with God. So, in answer to your question, my grandfather was my inspiration to pursue gospel music at an early age.

In 2006 you worked with Suggs Entertainment in Phoenix, AZ and your stage name came out of that and from that Royalty Entertainment came out of that can you give us some details on what Royalty Entertainment is all about as a company?

ROYALTY ENT. "Assume Nothing, Pursue Everything". No self doubt and never question your own capabilities. My platform for Royalty Entertainment is faith....faith in yourself and your ability to make dreams reality. I have been blessed to have a small support system that allows me to chase my dreams. I have people who believe in me and invest themselves in my dreams and that is what I want to be able to provide to any artist that has aspirations of success. I foster a CAN DO environment for myself and any other impassioned artist.

What have some of the accomplishments that Royalty Entertainment has done in the past and what type of mentoring programs do they involve themselves in?

Aside from my personal accomplishments of traveling and working with some mainstream artist as mentioned I have mentored local artist as well. *Jalen Polk (Kidd Swagg) now age 15 started writing rhymes at age 12. Kidd Swagg won a local TV/ radio contest and was sent on a all exclusive trip to Chicago for a VIP audition for the first season of XFactor. Kidd Swagg advanced through all 7 auditions but was unfortunately not selected to compete on the show as he only performs original music. Kidd Swagg wrote, recorded, produced, and released his cd Young, Paid, and Underrated in May 2013 and has since developed a large local following.

*Andrew Templeton (Flow da Kid) Was introduced to me by his father hoping to inspire his son to pursue positive behaviors. Their family had endured many struggles and Flow da Kid needed to channel his energy in a constructive direction.

I developed a close bond with him and featured him on my album in 2010 "Royalty, a way of life" where he learn to express emotional turmoil by creative writing and through music. Both kids are still pursuing music, performing locally, and working on new projects.

What is it like teaching youth about writing, recording, and then eventually releasing their music in the industry?

Honestly, when I was in high school i was an all state basketball performer but i lacked self discipline. I made poor choices and with those choices came consequences that not only affected me but my loved ones also. The decisions we make can be a lifetime sentence of regret.

Teaching the youth and inspiring them is helping me along my path of

self healing. By teaching young ones to write, record, and release their music it teaches them self discipline and dedication.

There are numerous amounts of youth wanting to get into the music industry; as your role as a mentor what do you tell the youth about the reality of breaking into the industry? Why is it so hard to break into the industry?

The reality is "there are numerous amounts of youth wanting to get into the music industry". The Internet is flooded with people trying to be heard. In order for one to get a big break not only do you have to be in the right place at the right time you need financial backing in a declining economy. Those very reasons are what I believe makes it so difficult to break into the music industry.

What do you find is the biggest problem with youth trying to break into the music business and what should they do to avoid some of the mistakes that you may have made? Can you tell us about some of your accomplishments and some of the pitfalls that you had?

Youth today are all talking about the same thing in their music. I believe the biggest challenge is finding a unique sound and being able to market it in a way that will provoke people to embrace your trend in music. For example, Bruno Mars came out as a crooner which was pretty much unheard of... Through his uncommon sound and star quality he is on top

in the industry. I encourage everyone to educate themselves and have a plan b so to speak. Nothing is guaranteed in the music industry but an educated mind is a powerful tool. My first album was recorded at the Salt Mine Studios in PHX, AZ where artists such as DMX, Lil Wayne Swizz Beatz, Game, and Cassidy have recorded. During some of my accomplishments I have encountered personal drug addiction and alcoholism. After the loss of my cousin I went through self rehabilitation and have been drug free since 2008.

A lot of your music career is based on the memory of your cousin; which I think is very honorable can you explain what you have seen in some of the youth that could relate to your cousin and why you do the work you do?

IDLE MIND IS THE DEVILS PLAYGROUND.... My belief is if you're not working towards something and setting goals for yourself you become dormant in your life. I see kids today fighting amongst each other in school and in the streets. These situations can and have turned into violent altercations with disastrous results. My cousin was unarmed, gun down, and left for dead. It's all about choices and the consequences behind those choices.

Creating a music career is not just making music, placing it on a CD, and then trying to sell them on the internet, at events but also involves what?

You asked me what else does it involve.... My response is simple Sacrifice and Commitment Sacrifice being described as- the surrender or destruction of something

prized or desirable for the sake of something considered as having a higher or more pressing claim.

Commitment- a pledge, promise, an obligation to one's self.

What advice can you give someone trying to break into the music business; and also what advice can you give some of our readers on participating in some of the reality shows such as American Idol and some of the others that are out there?

What can you tell our readers about the difference between a studio recording artist and a performing artist?

My advice to artist trying to break into the music business is look at criticism as coaching not as a personal attack. Stay humble and use what tools and blessings that are placed before you. Anyone auditioning for reality TV shows need to understand that what you see on TV is not the reality of the auditions. You don't just walk into a room and audition in front of celebrity judges. You go through numerous auditions beforehand and as you watch others get cut don't lose your confidence or your focus. Always stay humble and try to be considerate of other artist and loved ones along your journey.

There is a difference between being a recording artist and being a performing artist and the answer is in the titles. Very few have mastered both realms and those who have are legendary today.

To insure your fans want to see you perform live you need to give a performance not an exact replica of your recorded CD otherwise, they could just stay home and crank up the volume on the stereo and save a few bucks.

Can you tell us what is in store for you as an artist in the future and what is in store for Royalty Entertainment the company?

Currently I am working with Criz Milz out of Vegas on a new 81219 Boyz CD. Kidd Swagg of Royalty is presently writing and creating beats looking to be in the studio by Christmas and releasing his sophmore CD early 2014. RLO the King engenier and artist of Royalty is working on several new projects while running his own personal business. Royalty is partnering with William Rex McCraken photography out of Los Angeles, CA. Myself and former New Hope member Steve Shouse (cousin) is planning a reunion of all members to do live recordings to release a New Hope reunion album. By the end of 2013 Royalty Ent will be fully relocated to the West Coast.

Last, what major advice can you give our readers that are shopping around for representation and management agency in music?

My advice to anyone looking for representation is research. Don't get overzealous and just sign anything put before you. Protect yourself legally and professionally through contracts and copyrights.

This is a cutthroat industry, trust few, and keep your circle small.

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Jon Faddis said “This boy can play!!!” Winston Marsalis said “He can swing.” Bone Thugs N Harmony calls him “Chicago’s Finest.” Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, MC Lyte, and Ice Cube call this “young lion” of a musician “The Truth.” This whirlwind musical master from The Windy City has been captivating international audiences for the past 17 years as the most versatile trumpet player of choice for today’s shining stars. The person that they are referring to is none other than Chicago’s very own Leon Q. Allen, affectionately known as “L.A.” This product of the vibrant Windy City music scene attributes his success as one of the most internationally sought after trumpeters to his musical upbringing. As a child, “L.A.” was heavily exposed to multitudes of music, ranging from jazz, blues, and R&B to Afro-Latin and other international forms. His desire to become a prime example of complete musical immersion led him to take up the trumpet as his primary instrument, and study music academically.

This relentless pursuance led him to Columbia College Chicago, where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Jazz Studies in 2002. Since then, L.A. has demonstrated his musical prowess both on stage and in the classroom as a guest educator and master class instructor.

Since his entrance into the professional arena in 1994, at age 14, L.A. has given his gift of music to audiences around the world. L.A., in his personal, versatile way, has shared the stage with such dynamic musical icons such as Common, Kanye West, James Brown, Wynton Marsalis, Carl Thomas, Bone Thugs N Harmony, Drake, Tito Puente, Jr., and countless others. The world has not seen such a versatile musical force with the power to inspire people, like L.A. Simply put, L.A. will truly move your heart, mind, body, soul, and spirit through the powerful gift of music that he bestows upon the masses.

You were exposed to music early in your life; what cultivated that exposure into music?

What do you think was the hardest in subjects at Columbia College and what kept you fighting through it to graduate?

My parents were into music during their earlier years. My mother studied classical piano and sang, and my father played alto saxophone, drums, and sang as well. Before they were married, they performed semi-professionally around Chicago. Their love for music manifested in me the most, and I took to music like a fish takes to water. My father was the primary influence for me musically because as a child, he exposed me to jazz, contemporary Afro-American urban music, and inspirational music. I loved it so much, that music literally took my life over.

In actuality, I didn’t graduate. By the time I was a senior, I had so many professional opportunities, that I shifted my focus into the vocation of my craft, and thus, ended up losing my scholarship. I was working so much as a pro musician, composer, and producer that I let my grades slip. So, Columbia yanked my scholarship from me with 46 credit hours left for graduation. If I have any regrets in my career, this is the largest one. As I still continue to expand and grow in my career by leaps and bounds, I can only imagine how greater my career would be if I would have kept my focus and finished school. However, Columbia College Chicago is notable for the great talent acquisition and their academic methodology of talent cultivation and enhancement. This is why people who attend Columbia College Chicago end up becoming major contributors to our global arts industry. They prepare the students so well, that many students get the industry calling them while they are still in school. That is precisely what happened to me. I guess for me, the hardest subject to fight had nothing to do with any course that I took. It was keeping my priorities in order at the time and focusing on the larger picture. Having said that, I returned to school, and now I have only 9 credit hours to go before I can officially graduate. And I’m not letting that goal slip away from me again.

When did you realize that your music skills were your way to a career in life?

I realized music was the career for me very early in life. I took up the trumpet at age 10, and found out that I had a natural ability for it. At the time that I started playing trumpet, I was also singing, and since music was so fun to me, I knew that music was the way to my dream career.

Can you tell us a little about your educational background into the music industry? What type of courses did you take at Columbia College in Chicago?

My educational background in the music industry is mostly via application. I was the very first music scholarship recipient in the history of Columbia College Chicago. Initially, I wanted to get a degree in music business, but the mandates of my scholarship did not allow me to take the courses in music business that I really wanted. As a matter of fact, I didn’t take any business or music business classes at all at Columbia. However, this obstacle didn’t stop me from learning the business, because Columbia College Chicago has AWESOME student organizations. One of them gave me a four year CRASH COURSE into the music business. That student organization was Columbia’s Urban Music Association (CUMA). I learned so much from CUMA that I eventually served two years as President of the organization, which is considered to be very prestigious within the music business education community.

As for all other courses, I studied in the Jazz Performance and Composition curriculum, along with Sound Engineering for Studio and Live Environments, as well as intense study in Electronic and Computer Generated Music. In summary, I am a classically and jazz trained trumpeter and composer who ended up learning the business by individual outside application.

What was your earliest remembrance into trying to break into the music industry? And, what would you do different now?

I don’t consider myself trying to break into the industry because by the time that I graduated from high school, I was already in the industry as a professional jazz trumpet player. From the age of 13, I was performing in the top jazz venues in Chicago, and also in major music festivals nationally. So, if getting paid to play jazz by hitting the eighth grade is considered breaking into the music business, then so be it.

As a trumpet player you played with many artists can you tell us some of the lessons you learned about the music business and then about your craft as a trumpet player?

Wow. This is a great question. I’ve played with so many musicians and recording artists within my 20 year career in the music business, I can say that the lessons learned from the greats that I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the art with are EXTREMELY EXTENSIVE. If I could pick one lesson learned about the music business, it would be from George Benson. We were having dinner after a gig during the summer of 2007in Country Club Hills, and he told me to always stand up for what I believe I was worth talent-wise and fi-

nancially, and to always be ready to walk away from a situation if I felt that entering it would not be in the best interest of my art and career. I got the same advice from Kirk Whalum in the fall of 2008 after a concert in Chicago at the South Shore Cultural Center. As for artistic advice, the greatest I ever got was from Wynton Marsalis. I played my first gig with him on January 22, 2002. He told me that the greatest artistic craftsmen always new that the ultimate level of artistry could never be reached without a life dedication to the art and the cause. Therefore, I made the commitment to be a lifelong student of the art and the business, because I will never be satisfied without advancement.

Can you tell us what was it that got you exposed in the recording industry and what you had to do in order to stand out from recording executives passing you by?

My exposure in the recording industry was initiated from CUMA. CUMA has an annual music business conference in the spring of every year, and the organization would bring in all types of music industry personnel. I would play for the personnel and ended up networking with them on various projects which would roll through Chicago. Through that, I ended up playing with opening acts on major urban music concert tours that would roll through Chicago. Then I moved into doing television concerts for national talent playing in either our city or the region, and that really caught the attention of recording executives and tour managers. And that’s how I ended up in Hollywood working the music touring scene, and then the studio scene, working on projects to be released on major record labels internationally.

With the creation of the reality shows and TV contests can you see a show being created like “American Idol” for musicians of your caliber, meaning playing an instrument?

I actually think that there should be television content of this nature on air. This content, in my opinion is more significant and important to music and entertainment, because a star in music is only as good as his or her team. In shows such as “American Idol,” the target of the show is not completely conveying the true path of a singer who un-

dertakes the rites of passage to become a music star. These shows only focus on one major side of the music business.

There are so many facets to the music business. Musicians are the most versatile personnel in the music business, because we are the ones who not only create the product to be sold, but we are often the ones who obtain the richest knowledge of the business, which is largely due to the many hats musicians have to wear in the vocation of their positions. An excellent reality show for musicians, in my opinion, was P. Diddy’s “Making the Band.” This showed more light into the world of the musician working within the upper echelons of the industry. This show created platforms for those privileged music to expand in their respective careers, and to continue in their lifelong artistic quests as well. (Many of the musicians on that show are my personal friends and colleagues.)

Why is it and how do you feel about the decline of music in the school system across the United States and what do you see is a solution?

Music education is declining in America for several reasons, but the largest reason, in my opinion is that here in America, society dictates that art is only respected if it can be turned into financial gain. This is partially understandable, because we live in a capitalistic society.

However, the quality of our music is not advancing or augmenting. It is diminishing. This is because America itself has to return to advocacy of teaching what I would like to call “the ancient American art of music.” This can be done in the same respect that European nations have perfected for centuries. Many European nations have set aside government funding and initiatives for arts advocacy. America ain’t caught up with the Europeans yet. We need to do so. Why are there so many government programs and initiatives for math and science, and not the arts? What we need to realize is that math and science is art themselves, but arts education is the only way to effectively cross train the mind to fully integrate both sides of the brain to fully operate on all levels.

Music education not only teaches art, but math, science, linguistics, and so many other subjects wrapped into one. People can’t be labeled as great unless they effectively use the one thing that everyone has inside of them that is used to make new things happen. That is creativity. Music, in my opinion is the ultimate weapon of creative stability. We as the human race cannot live without it. It must be respected. Why can’t America as a nation do so?

Can you tell us about some of your most memorable moments in your career that the outcome could help our readers to that are up and coming?

Is this something that was planned as an artist representative or was it a by chance happening?

Well, there are several memorable moments for me. In jazz, the top three was playing with Wynton Marsalis, George Benson, and Jon Faddis. In Black urban music, it was performing on tour with Bone Thugs N Harmony, working with Ice Cube, and taking the music director position for Carl Thomas. These people inspired me to continue my lifelong pursuance of music.

Being an artist representative was planned initially, but I had had no idea on how it would manifest itself.

Then, by chance, Cecy came along. My experience with her proved something to me. I believe that musicians who know the business are the best managers. Anyone else would be deemed uncivilized (no offense).

What advice could you give to our readers while they are pursuing their career in music?

Tell us what does Leon Q do in his free time or do you actually have any free time?

Get educated, get a listening spirit, get a spiritual foundation, and get ready to go for your dreams.

In my free time I like to relax, read books, watch movies, exercise, and hang out where the good music is.

So what is in the near future and distant future (meaning 10 years from now) for Leon Q the artist? And I am correct when I say you represent an artist or two what is in store for that part of your career?

What advice can you give to individuals trying to get into the music industry?

I think that it is safe to say that I will be representing artists as well as continuing my creative portion of my career. I see myself in ten years running my own version of MOTOWN as a fully functioning artist development facility while continuing to play, record, tour, and educate.

What actually got you involved with representing singing artist Cecy Santana?

Cecy and I met on a gig in December of 2011 while both of us were playing with the notorious Chicago Samba. We continued to play with this band for a while, and then Cecy decided to form her own band. She asked for my help then, and I’ve been helping her career ever since.

Can you tell us a little about your career as an artist representative?

Well, I guess all that I could say about that is that my experience in other aspects of the music business lent my way to wanting to help steer the careers of others on their pathways to success.

The music business is not a sprint. It is a marathon. Get ready to run.

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