exit-21-magazine-issue-4-2 by exit21mag

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DA UNION THE

MAFIA EXIT21MAGAZINE 4.99

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MAMA JONES / RAEKWON / RAY LAVENDER / DRUMMER BOY / PEEDI CRAKK / Diamond

PLUSSEXYMODELS: KetlyD ROSALIS SADY KIM

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CONTENT ISSUE 4

RAY LAVENDER

Raekwon

MAMA JONES

rosalis

G - EAZY

SADY

DRUMMER BOY

Diamond

THE MAFIA

DA UNION DJS

12 Ketly D

PEEDI CRAKK

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LADY SHA BK

28 KIM

J.R. DONATO

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Exit 21 Magazine is hip hop’s source for news and upcoming talent. What makes us different is other magazine focus on mainstream media; we are giving a voice to the artist of the underground and unsigned. Not stopping there, we bring to our audience the hottest MCs in the game. We run both a magazine and website at exit21magazine.com that has content from music videos, interviews and current news. We plan on becoming hip hop’s leader in underground and unsigned artists in the consumer market. Established in August 2010 under CEO Rickey Allen and President Damon Whethers, the magazine and website is growing a following and is being recognized among hip hop elites.

Editorial Mission We here at Exit 21 understand that getting the magazine and brand into people’s homes is only half the battle. To keep a cult following you need attractive material and innovating journalism pieces. Bad grammar, lazy journalism and plagiarism is not acceptable at Exit21magazine. Along with providing a voice for upcoming artists, we do so in an innovating way. Journalist work on pieces including narrative, reporting and reviews. Our journalists understand the mission and are encouraged to expand their minds to write unique pieces.

Issue 4 CEO - Rickey Allen President - Damon Whethers Editor in Chief - Rickey Allen Editor - Michelle Moses

Writers - Chantal Cook, Christine Dimaria, That Chick Crissy, Strawberry Kay, Nelly NewShoes and S.A. Prophet

e have seen Momma Jones be the matriarch in her family’s life with Love and Hip Hop and Chrissy and Mr. Jones. She may come off as being a little too much or psycho but here at Exit 21 Magazine we wanted to see the other side of Momma Jones. We wanted to dig deep to show a side of her no one has done before, Momma Jones the college graduate, author,

Photographer - Chevon Mclntyre, Rickey Allen Marketing and Promotions - Damon Whethers

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Sparkle Callahan info@sparklecallahan.com

She has dived head first in the perfume business with her very own scent called PumKash. The perfume caters to a sensual woman with a rough edge who likes a smooth smell. The name for her perfume came about one night she was drinking with a friend and was clowning with names. We have seen celebrities for year’s cash in on the fragrance game and we here at Exit 21 got an up close smell of the fragrance and give it two thumbs up. She honestly feels like out of all her business ventures the perfume will

MAMA JONES

editorial

entrepreneur, business woman and grandmother. Nancy “Momma” Jones attended college at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Growing up she always wanted to be part of the fashion world. She talked about making clothes for her dolls and always made sure her children had good style. In fact, her son Jim Jones caught the fashion bug from her. As Momma Jones puts it he has a “shoe addiction.”

hit it big because all women love perfume. Her business ideas just keep coming and won’t stop Momma Jones also working hard with her clothing line and condom line both under Psycochotic. Yes, I said condoms. Momma put her motherly touch on the condoms slogan with “Mama Says Never Leave Home Without it.” We wonder how Jim feels about his momma having her own condom line, awkward. Nevertheless, the woman is serious about making money and she hasn’t stopped with just fashion and condoms. You can add lip gloss, weave, a book and even vodka to her business empire. For the weave, all the hair is 100 percent real human hair. We expected nothing less. With the book, Mama Jones Love and Romance, she explains the concept as Steve Harvey was looking out for the women; she is looking out for the men. Tells men how to cheat, which is not going to please a lot of women when they read this. “They are bad in cheating and this bitch just gave up all my shit,” she says. “I’m sure women across America will be trying their hardest to keep this book out of their man’s hands.”

Sticking on the topic of love, Momma Jones has always been outspoken about relationships, especially Jim’s. When asked about hers she said she is very happy despite the fact that she and her husband are separated right now. In her own words, “He was a really good husband but sometimes things happen.” The two remain friends and have handled the separation like adults. She tells us that she and her current boyfriend are doing great and are in love.

When she’s not busy with business, she attends venues, spends a little time with the grand and great grandchildren and gets back to the normal life. No matter how busy she is, everyone in the Jones house knows to make time for Sunday dinner. She names her greatest achievement in life is seeing her daughter about to graduate from college in May. It’s a bittersweet moment for her because she is the baby out of five children. “Without them I would be lost,” she said when talking about her family.

Exit 21 Magazine wish nothing but the best for Momma Jones and all her business ventures. We will keep readers updated on the clothing line, condoms, lip gloss, vodka, book and anything else she comes up with in the future. Written by Chantel Cook

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RAY LAVENDER “Lose yourself in the moment; you only get one time man.” R&B singer and ladies’ man Ray Lavender is still working hard to please his fans. With his catchy 2007 hit “My Girl Got a Girlfriend,” the Billboard hit took his career to new heights. He has worked with Lady Ga Ga, Akon, Trey Songz and plans to keep elevating his career. Finishing up BET’s 2012 College Tour, he is now focusing on releasing classics in 2013. Lavender has lyrics that make the women imagine having one night with him and men wanting to spit game like him. It all started when he met Dallas Houston and Akon when he moved to Atlanta, Georgia. He credits the two plus LL Cool J and Teddy Riley for sharpening his craft. It didn’t take long for the natural talent to get into the R&B scene and take off. When Akon got out of jail and took off in his music career in 2004, he made Lavender his first artist. The rest is history.

Big Dre is one of the first people to believe in Lavender before anyone in the music industry. So it was only natural for Lavender to make the move to his label Global Artist Group after leaving Konvict Music. Dre reformed the label with Lisa Henry and artists Jordan Humphrey, Que Sylve and Mademoizell. With the label, he had his hit single “We Love, “on BET 106 & Park top 10 list for 15 weeks straight. When we asked the Monroe, LA native what keeps him grounded he said family. He told Exit 21 that his mom calls him after every show. He lost his father in 1996 and she makes sure to remind him where he comes from and to be the best man he can be. With the passing of his father, Lavender said it made his desire to sing even greater.

“When he passed, you wanted to go back and fish for everything that you talked about and try to remember. One of the things he said was if I had a voice like yours, I would be all over the world right now. I used what he said as rocket fuel and I took off.”

Greatest lessons he learned from Akon is one, to control himself because people will sue, which is true. The main lesson is to keep it simple. Keep the lyrics simple and let the melody come from heaven. The harmony doesn’t have to be all over

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the place just enough to keep people singing with you. That stuck in his head especially making the hit “My Girl Got a Girlfriend.”

As a student of music he has looked up to R. Kelly, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Michael Jackson, Mint Condition, Silk, H-Town and Hi-Five. He admits that most of his game he used in school would come from the lyrics of the songs he listen to. His all-time favorite would have to be Sam Cooke. He listens to Cooke almost every day and was raised on his music.

With the R&B genre being flooded with artists it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. Don’t tell that to Lavender. Besides his handsome looks to match his sex appeal, he says his voice is like no other. “It’s a different look, a different sound; there is no body like me. I tell you this; I’m going to sing the hell out of these songs though. …I’m going to tell her I love her like no other. I’m going to tell her I need that like it needs to be told.” Ray Lavender dipped his feet in reality TV not too long ago. He was a contestant on Donald Trump’s The Ultimate Merger, where he helps The Apprentice villain Omarosa find true love. His first answer was no when he was approached to do the show but he came around to say yes. Lavender said he actually had fun and wouldn’t mind doing it again.

“I heard Donald Trump was involved, so of course anything that has to do with money I won’t say no to that.” Calling himself a natural competitor, he walked in there planning to win. He was all in to find true love, win the money or both, we will let fans decide. Omarosa ended up not picking anyone but the two remained friends. Lavender has no hard feelings and says she is a great woman. He sends his condolences to Omarosa and her fiancé Michael Clark who passed away in 2012. To the critics and people who judged him on his reality TV move, he had this to say. Fans can follow Ray Lavender on Facebook and Twitter at DaRealRayL and raylavender.com.

written by

ChantalCook

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AWARENESS Boyz 2 Men or Boyz 2 Boyz - J.F. II If you’re a man working one or more jobs or a man working odd jobs in order to put food on the table, a man who keeps a roof over your family’s head; or a man in school seeking higher education in an effort to excel, READ NO FURTHER. You’re a man; this column is for “BOYZ”. The “Boyz” I’m talking about are the ones I see hanging on the corner or stoop on my way out in the morning and on my way home at night. The ones who hit up their mother, sister, or girlfriend for $5 or $10 in order to buy some weed, a pint and / or a forty; The “Boyz” who jump turnstiles or sneak on the bus instead of buying a metro card. Really!!?? Please ask yourselves a few questions: 1. What purpose do I serve? 2. What is my goal in life? 3. What am I contributing in order to better my family or myself? Somewhere in these questions lies an answer only you can address. You need to start by asking yourself, “As a man, am I going to step up or stay put?” Staying put, shackles you to that same street corner or stoop; which is considered loitering. Loitering makes you an easy target for police profiling and could lead to an arrest which in turn, leads to a record (if not incarceration); which leaves you with zero opportunities for a good job. So, answer this:

Do you pay your bills, put food on the table or clothes on your children? Do you beg, borrow, and steal or street hustle? What message are you sending your kids? Do you blame the system or yourself? It is easier to blame the system, but in reality, in order to move up, you have to step up. Sooner or later, you have to shed the “Boy” and embrace the “Man”. Although it’s not an easy task and an ongoing battle; that’s what being a man is about. It is a struggle and sacrifice to improve not only your life but the lives of yourchildren as well. So, leave the “Boy” in the past and let the “Man” step into the future. That’s my opinion people, what’s yours?

Are Reality Shows Giving Women Negative Stereotypes - by Nelly

NewShoes

What’s going on Exit 21 Magazine? It’s ya girl NewShoes. I remember when the reality show “Real World” first hit MTV in 1992. I was in elementary school and desperately wanted to be a cast member. I went as far as writing MTV begging them to make a kids spin off, so that I could be a cast member {Laughs}. Ever since that show aired two decades ago, many of us have became intrigued with the ‘REAL LIVES’ of others. In the past few years “urban” reality shows like: Love & Hip Hop, Basketball Wives & Bad Girls

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Club have become the most viewed, rated and watched shows. When we know our favorite reality show is about to come on, many of us, including myself, either: impatiently wait for it to start in front of the television. If we’re not home we rush home, setup our DVRS to record it so that we can watch it later and/or set our alarm clocks to ensure that we don’t miss it. We’re so thrilled and eager to see and know what has happened since the last episode, who said and who’s doing what, who’s sleeping with who or cheating on their mates, the fights, stupid arguments and the list goes on; depending on your reason for watching. When reality show “Real World” surfaced it was used as an informative and self building show for both cast members and viewers. Giving the world a glimpse into their day to day lives living with one another. They also had to hold down the job or project given to them during taping. Being forced to not only live but work together provided examples to the viewers about “real life” and dealings with “real people”. Now, most of these “urban” reality shows are just for pure entertainment if you ask me. What positive examples are they really setting for women as a whole? The underlying issue with most of these “urban” reality shows for me, is that it’s giving women negative stigmas. If you feel other wise, what examples or role model attributes are they setting for the young women watching? Mona Scott Young (executive producer of Love & Hip Hop) told MTV host Sway on RapFix Live “They have every right to tell their stories and judging by the numbers, they’re stories that people want to see and hear about.” Well with that being said she makes a valid point, but are these stories that we as women want our young female children to watch? Follow? Mimic? Or, are we as a society watching just to laugh at the women on these shows as they embarrass, lower their value as women and make fools of themselves? If you ask me the only positive reality show currently airing is “Lala’s Full Court Life”; which projects a strong, independent, business entrepreneur, family oriented woman that other women can look up to and follow. What does this say about the writers and producers behind these reality shows? Are they more interested in ratings than they are in producing shows that will uplift and inspire both men and women. Late last year there was talk and promotion for a reality show called “All My Babies’ Mamas” featuring G-Unit rapper Shawty Lo and 7 of the 10 mothers of his 11 children. The title alone is crazy. I have no idea of the reasoning behind anyone wanting to fund a show of this nature. Though the show never aired, it was pulled before it even started. Are these type of shows producers feel we want to see? What positive insight could have been taken from this show if aired? The trailer showed black women aka “baby mama’s” all living under the same roof with their kids and Shorty Low; surrounded by their in house drama and his career. We raise our young girls to marry and then have kids but this reality show shows the total opposite that my daughter could have never watched if it aired. It’s time that major network channels make more reality shows like “Lala’s Full Court Life” and bring back reality shows like “Runs House” in order to change the negative stereotypes already portrayed by women. So the next time your watching your favorite reality show ask yourself “Is this the way women are supposed to be viewed and subjected?”

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Ketly D

etly D originally hails from Brooklyn, New York. She hasn’t strayed far from birth either; she still lives in the same city. She began modeling when she was just 15 years old; however, her introduction to modeling is far from the average story of a girl desperately wanting to be a model and finally receiving that one chance. In fact, Ketly becoming a model was actually a prank pulled on her. She was entered into a modeling contest as a joke. Well, the joke was on everyone else because she won. Once she won, she had the opportunity to travel to Miami and do some real modeling. And we’re quiet happy she wasn’t at the butt-end of this gag, since this sexy lady has had some amazing accomplishments in modeling thus far – including posing for our magazine. Ketly started out solely doing fashion, but now she does urban modeling as well. She’s had the opportunity to model for Fashion Week, videos, Brooklyn Fashion Weekend and numerous clothing lines. Besides modeling, she also hosts and is a mother to two children. This sexy mama is single fellas, but she believes that staying single is beneficial to a woman’s career – so don’t get your hopes up. Ultimately, Ms. D. wants to get into television acting. Although she used to work with the television network Fox, she wants to take acting lessons and further her acting skills to reenter into TV. She still wants to model for more magazines, but her main goal is to break into acting. Ketly wants to work with Facet Studios, which she’ll have an opportunity to do so on March 24, 2013. She also wants to work with Frank Antonio and do some reality television. Out of all the models out there today, she cites Tyra Banks as her favorite. And we can definitely see why – Tyra dominates and is one fierce diva in the industry. Ketly states that Tyra is a good role model and even when she was slim, Tyra still kept it sexy. This is much like how Ketly identifies herself – as a slimmer model, who still keeps it curvy and sexy. Ketly might not be one of the typical big booty girls in the magazines, but she’s beautiful and her body definitely scores a 10 in our book! For the girls and women out there who want to become models, Ketly shares her wisdom from years in the industry. She says that you should work hard, stay determined and don’t depend on a man. She even goes as far to say that staying single will help your career, since you can focus on yourself and your goals. Obviously, she’s bound and determined to do big things with her career, so make sure you keep an eye open for her and continue to support her. For more information about her or to see what Ketly is going to do next, check her out on Instagram or Twitter by connecting with @KetlyD.

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ThatChickCrissy INTERVIEWED

DRUMMER BOY Exit21Magazine: Drumma Boy what’s good bro? Drumma Boy: Just dropped a record for the new year titled “Good Year” - working on a new mix tape and more music for the ladies.

Exit21Magazine: Let the people know where you from? Drumma Boy: South Memphis, TN. Born and bred - was getting in a lot of trouble in my neighborhood (Blackhaven) so moms moved me to Cordova (suburbs) at 13. Exit21Magazine: How long have you been producing now? Drumma Boy: Started producing when I moved to the suburbs to stay out of trouble. Exit21Magazine: Name some of the artist you’ve work with in the past and present? – Drumma Boy: Quite a long list but a few are: Wiz Khalifa, Chris Brown, Drake, Kanye West, Musiq Soulchild, Monica, Mary J Blige, Nelly, Yo Gotti, Rick Ross, Rocko, Young Jeezy, Pastor Troy, Juicy J, DJ Paul, Gucci Mane, Waka Flocka, Roscoe Dash, Big Sean, Trey Songz, & more... Exit21Magazine: Is there anyone that you haven’t work with that you would like to work with? Drumma Boy: Adele, Akon, Beyonce, JayZ, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Bruno Mars, Ceelo Green Exit21Magazine: What was your first piece of production equipment? Drumma Boy: Roland Workstation XP-50 Exit21Magazine: What’s next for Drumma Boy and the new label in the near future? Drumma Boy: Signed an artist named Yung Bleu - the record I produced for him is #1 independent record in country right now

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“Go Head”. Also looking at a few other acts as well as a few artists in development. Exit21Magazine: How many artists do you have signed to your new label? Drumma Boy: Drum Squad is a camp of artists, musicians, writers, & creative individuals that contribute different energy to the table. A Drum Squad compilation project should be coming this year of 2013! Exit21Magazine: We see you have a new video with new artist sensation Future. How was it working with Future? Drumma Boy: Future been a homie since way back... It’s a no brainer. We have worked with lots of the same people and put in a lot of work to get where we are today. We’ve seen a lot in our time. Exit21Magazine: What other projects are you working on outside of your camp? Drumma Boy: Clash Of Da Titans wit DJ Paul... Strictly For The Strippers with Young Dolph, & Welcome To My City Vol. 3. Exit21Magazine: What positive advice can you offer to a up in coming producer? Drumma Boy: Make an artist hot... real simple... don’t always aim for the “names” give the kid on your block a “name” and blow him up. Exit21Magazine: We thank you for stopping by and kicking it with us. Any last shootouts? Drumma Boy: Salute to all the listeners and fans... keep appreciating music, follow me on Twitter @DrummaBoyFresh & checkout the website www.drum-squad.com New Drum Squad Gear available !!!

PEEDI CRAKK Exit21Magazine: So you’re here in Brooklyn. What are you working on? Peedi: Everything man, vocals, a mixtape, EP, shouts to Henney Loc (4RealDoe Records), just music, just to get a way in a different environment. I could work at home, and Brooklyn feels like Philly, there’s just a more positive vibe. But I love Philly. Exit21Magazine: Do you feel like people are more excepting of you out here coming back and doing what you’re doing? Peedi: Yea, at home people feel like they know me. I’m theirs. I’m Philly’s own but the appreciation is different when you step outside of your home and comfort zone. If somebody sees me in Philly they’ll be like “oh yea, (pause) there goes Peedi Crakk” . When someone sees me in New York, they’re like “Oh Shit!!! There goes Peedi Crakk!!!!” Exit21Magazine: You’re just a regular in Philly right? (laughing) Peedi: Yea, I’m just a regular. They’ll be like “yea, he’s my baby mom’s cousin” (laughing) Exit21Magazine: What are you doing now that’s going to be different than in the past? Peedi: It’s not what I’m doing now’ It’s how I’m doing it now. I’m doing it with more conviction and more confidence. I’m sure of what I’m doing. Before I wasn’t certain, I just knew I was talented, I knew how to rap and how to deliver this stuff but I wasn’t certain about everything. I was just experimenting with everything. Now when hear a beat, I know exactly what I want to do with it and how I want to do it. Its more my thing now. I didn’t have a thing back then.

Exit21Magazine: What do you think about the hip hop game to the older artist who can still bring that quality to music? Peedi: I can’t really answer that because I’m not too concerned with that. I don’t pay attention to that. The difference with the artist from where I came up to the artists now is that we hold real fans and there’s still quality in that music. Not all, but a majority of the new artist there’s not a strong quality factor and the fan base is not a solid fan base. It’s like a new wave kind of fan base where your shit is just generic to them. It’s like your song will pop for a month or two then it’s like a throw away razor “this shit is dull. Get a new one.” We have fans that stuck with us. Exit21Magazine: What is your most memorable moment out of all of this? Peedi: There’s just too many. Just being a part of this, being a part of a big conglomerate like Roc-A-Fella. The things you can’t get again like just rhyming back and forth with Beans, getting a call from Jay (Z) himself saying “Yo, your song is number one on the radio kid”, it’s stuff like that. Exit21Magazine: What projects do you have coming up? Peedi: I have a project with 4RealDoe Records with Henney Loc, it’s an EP, also Crakk Files Part 5 with DJ Antlive and its being repackaged and put out by Stevie Williams and DGK, then Beans and I were in a film with Stevie Williams which will be out shortly. I’m also, working with my man Maxx Payne Shawty from Atlanta. So look out for him. Twitter: @realpeedicrakk Instagram: @p_crakk-coccane

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nions are formed to protect and promote. When speaking in terms of skills, most unions are comprised of a number of experienced individuals focused on promoting the perfection of their craft with a performance rate that creates a high demand in a particular industry. When it comes to Hip-Hop and the music industry, such protection is limited. And as for promotion… that depends on your skills! Like all industries, the sale of their products’ promotion relies heavily upon their advertisement department. There’s no better way to advertise new music than to hear it on the radio or in

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the club. Well, it’s no secret that NYC has some of the hottest nightclubs and parties in the world! What makes these parties and nightclubs rock hard are the Super DJ’s spinning on the ones and twos. In case you are unaware, New York maintains an exclusive disc jockey democracy- an elite group known as Da Union. Da Union was started as a collaborative effort between Brooklyn’s own DJ Snatch 1, internationally acclaimed DJ Self and “Da Bronx Bomber”- DJ Will Power. Together they have monopolized the club circuit and elected other noteworthy DJs to participate in ensuring that we continue to have a reliable and most pleasurable musical experience.

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DA Union Established 2007, NYC Instagram/Twitter @DaUnionDJs THE FOUNDERS Undeniably masters of their craft, DJ Self, DJ Snatch 1 and DJ Will Power were destined to become more than the average DJ. After setting themselves apart from the typical radio wave dis jockey who plays the top 20 songs during their predictable segment. These 3 men concocted a plan to take over while aiming high for goals that would assist in their pursuit of legendary status. Not only does Da Union conquer the radio waves, they have dominated the club circuit only to expand further in the flourishing music industry. Accomplishments like these don’t happen overnight. Five years ago, these DJs sat down to reach the epitome of the careers. But before they became Da Union and could actually enjoy what it’s like to be on top, they’ve done their share in experiencing the bottom.

stopped there. As a previous member of the DJ group X Factor, DJ Self ’s desire to spread his wings and chose a route alternative to the group. With no love lost, he parted from the group in hopes to handle his growth both musically and business wise. His drive was communicated through his music allowing for him to travel internationally from London to Germany and ultimately Tokyo. Self ’s growing notoriety welcomed a celebrity client list and the demand needed to keep him in the game. What made DJ Self successful and how would he advise those who seek to follow

DJ Snatch 1

DJ Self has been on the scene rocking the club circuit since 1996. Hailing from Fort Greene-Brooklyn, DJ Self ’s swag approach to DJing is innate. When he’s on stage mixing tracks from hip hop to R&B, you can recognize the Brooklyn swag that he attributes to the legendary Hip Hop store: “Beatstreet.” DJ Self has showcased his eminent skills up and down the East Coast. But he never

DJ SUPER STAR JAY

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in his footsteps? “I always tell upcoming DJs and upcoming artists The 5 P’s. Proper preparation prevents poor performance! So, if you prepare yourself for the things you’re doing – the outcome will be great!” DJ Self is prepared and he maintains the same work ethic as when he entered the scene. Sticking to his plan and ever progressing, there’s no slowing him down. Hustling is an understatement! Between murdering the clubs on the weekends and weekday radio syndications with Power 105.1 and Shade 45, one would

think DJ Self had his plate full. Not DJ Self! Just prior to our interview, DJ Self had did a party with 2 Chainz in Philadelpia. With more anticipated parties, DJ Self will be debuting his latest upcoming project - a clothing line called Gwinin. You can find his latest fashion at www.shopgwinin.com and www.gwinin.tv. Other future projects include a mixtape called Expanding My Business. The first single is “Word to My Mother” which features Future, Meek Mill and Jim Jones. Partying with Hip Hop’s elite is an everyday experience for DJ Self. The artist at the top of his towork-with list is the incomparable Eminem. While DJ Self is currently working on Shade 45 (a SiriusXM uncut Hip Hop radio channel created by Eminem and other Aftermath companions), he had never worked with him on a musical level. So, while we wait in the cut for that epic collaboration, listen to DJ Self on Power 105.1FM from 10 pm – 2 am. You can find him on Instagram and Twitter @DJSelf and on Facebook.com/DJSelf. Call him the General! As the general, founder and mastermind behind Da Union, DJ Snatch 1 continues to hold down the group as they move forward. A word of advice from DJ Snatch 1, “Stay true to yourself, stay true to your game and keep loyalty. The last thing you want people to think is you are not

DJ Self

loyal because you won’t last long in this business.” As far as Snatch 1’s concern, Da Union will be and is comprised of DJs who are ensured to maintain longevity. Representing East New YorkBrooklyn and exemplifying a true hustler since 1995, DJ Snatch 1’s resume reads more than that of just a DJ- but that of a producer as well. Producing music for corporate events, movie and album release parties has given him access to the best clientele. Such exposure has granted him the opportunity to, like many of his Union peers, do parties for many celebrities as one of hip hop’s go-to DJs. Between hosting three radio shows: 107.5 WBLS FM (Saturdays 10-11PM), and 2 internet radio shows: Beatminerz Live Radio (New York) as well as SwurvRadio (Las Vegas) and producing music- Snatch 1 holds strong to his position as general and maintains a group of DJs who have taken the industry by storm. You can listen to these shows at livestream.com/beatminerzradio and SwurvRadio. com. To find out more, follow DJ Snatch 1 on facebook.com/ DJSnatch1 or on Twitter @ DJSnatch1. The Bronx Bomber, DJ Will Power, is the glue that holds Da Union together. With over 17 years of experience as one of the most sought after DJs, DJ Will Power is the king of celebrity hotspots in the most live cities in the world ranging from New York, Las Vegas, Chicago, Miami, and Los Angeles.

Beyond the celebrity soirees he hosts, DJ Will Power has been honored to work with numerous artists both on stage and in

[another] computer DJ dude. Know your records, come out there, practice and work the crowd!” DJ Will Power’s solid

sustained his success and opened doors leading to top industry connections. With a laundry list of clients and future DJ Will Power can be heard on Power 105.1 FM Saturday nights between 12AM-2AM. To find out more about DJ Will Power, check out his website: DJWill.net or follow him on Twitter @ DJWillBX and InstaGram @ WillNYC. UNION MEMBERS Let’s give credit where credit is due, and give props to the only

DJ will power the booth! Unlike many of our contemporary “laptop” DJ’s, DJ Will Power studied to become a master of his craft. “Just like [with] anything, you [have] to be the best at what you do. If you’re going to be a janitor, be the best janitor you can be. If you’re going to be a DJ, dedicate yourself to what this is. It’s [not] just going out to the club, meeting girls, sliding off and all that! We worked hard at this for years to get to the point we’re at right now to be on the radio [and] to be [DJing] parties for everybody. Definitely work hard at what you’re doing. Be a student of the game. Study! Don’t be a slouch or

work ethic has

DJ O. Minaya DJ KStarr

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lady of the crew. DJ KStarr is the “Queen of Brooklyn” when it comes to knowing how to control the crowd with her mix table skills. With a solid 12 year career and previous connections to The Shutdown Kings, King Dino, and Dee of Round the Clock, DJ KStarr has proven that she’s got what it takes to stomp on the same grounds as the big boys! Quite the hostess and MC to industry events and parties, she knows how to hype up the party. A former MC for DJ Envy in Club Lobby. DJ Self introduced her to Red Café to work with him in conquering the club scene and the rest was history! To find DJ Kstarr, hit her up on Twitter @KStarrSD and facebook.com/KStarr. One of the most outspoken firecrackers of Da Union, DJ Johnny Han$um, is the creator of a unique style of DJing that takes his passion for music across all genres and mixing them with a style all his own. A Queens dude at heart, DJ Johnny Han$um is a frequent flyer at clubs Amnesia, HK, and BB Kings, DJ Johnny Han$um had proven through his grind that he had the hunger required to be down with Da Union. “I got voted in Da Union. What it did for me was [allow] me to

open up for Snatch, Self, Superstar J, Will, [and] Nore. I kind of took everybody’s style and [added] my style to it and made it into one. My advice to any upcoming DJ is to find [someone] you could open up for and learn the business first. They damn sure taught me the ins and outs of this business right here. Because it is a business… you have to format your music, you have to set up the party. [There’s] a whole formula [needed] in place in order for you to really crush and destroy a party. And, that’s what these dudes did for me. That’s all day! Da Union baby! Check out DJ Johnny Han$um’s latest mixtape: “Got Heat? Vol. 9 Hood Politics” on sharebeast.com and follow him on Twitter/Instagram: @DJJohnnyHansum. DJ O.Minaya is a South Bronx master at mixing the tables with sounds of Hip Hop and R&B at clubs like Amnesia, Cocoa Cabana, Butter and HK. After DJing a party for actor Idris Elba, he was approached by DJ Self to talk business

to eventually be inducted into Da Union. Like other members of Da Union on their grind, DJ O.Minaya has other upcoming outside projects. Check out www.sikmixxradio.com, a DJ platform and internet radio show that helps up and coming DJs gain exposure as well as to obtain radio slots for both men and women. With the help that he has received he has paid forward only to be rewarded further. His ultimate dream is to DJ at a New Year’s Eve party in Las Vegas…. Soon come! To book DJ O.Minaya for your next party, visit www.djominaya.com or follow him on Twitter/Instagram @DJOminaya.

DJ Spider A wizard in the college campus scene, DJ Spider is known to tour colleges in the Tri-State area. A former college student at St. John’s University, he has gained entry to Da Union through the accomplishments of his own personal ventures. DJ Spider is the founder of The College Club Kings, a crew of DJs that has the college party scene on smash and guarantees an ultimate party experience at a plethora of colleges throughout the Tri-State Area. DJ Nore introduced DJ Spider to Da Union and the rest was history. To find out more, follow him @ DJSpider411.

DJ Snap runs East New York and has done parties at clubs like Amnesia. With DJing experience spanning over 20 years, DJ Snap’s membership in Da Union resulted from his unwavering passion to work. A Brooklyn hustler, he’s about his business and promoting good music. To link up with DJ Snap, hit him at his email: DJSnapNYC@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter/Instagram @ DJSnapNYC.

According to DJ Superstar Jay, he is the “#1 in the streets” when it comes to DJing! The youngest dude in the crew at 20 years old, he has been DJing for about 4 years. Playing with his older brothers DJ equipment, he started playing around and booking parties. It was on from there! Born in the Bronx and raised in Jersey, he knows the struggle. After a car accident caused by drinking and driving, he changed his life. With his life taking a turn for sobriety, he has grown into a man. Apart from creating mixtapes and DJing in clubs, Superstar Jay has a show on Power 105.1. Check him out on facebook.com.DJ-SupserstarJay and on Twitter/InstaGram 2DJSuperstarJay. Written by: S.A. Prophet

DJ Snap

Exit21Magazine: Hello Ms. Sady. Sady: Hey Exit21Magazine: How are you? Sady: Good. Getting better Exit21Magazine: Where are you from? Sady: San Cristobal Dominican Republic Exit21Magazine: How long have you been modeling? Sady: A couple of months now Exit21Magazine: What do you enjoy the most when your on set? Sady: Networking and getting to meet other people on the set. Exit21Magazine: Do you have any up in coming projects in the works? Sady: Yes. After I finish my NY shoots, I’m off to Los Angeles for the first time. Exit21Magazine: What positive advice can you offer a up in coming model? Sady: Not everything is for everyone, but just be yourself I guess. Stay focused Exit21Magazine: We thank you for being in our issue. Any last words? Sady: Yes, The shoot was fantastic. Hope you have me again LOL Exit21Magazine: Let the people know your contacts. INSTAGRAM Sunshine_1224 TWITTER @Sunshine_1224 EMAIL Sunshine_1224@live.com

DJ Spider 22

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REP WHAT’s Next G - EAZY G-Eazy began his career as an opening act for headliners. But he has now shifted his career and became the headliner, which is an amazing feeling for him. When he first began touring as an opening act, he realized it was great for exposure and as a platform for new opportunities. When he first started, he recognized the importance and difficulty of winning over a crowd that isn’t there specifically to see you. During this time, GEazy stood in the sidelines of the stage admiring those who were headliners and watching the crowd have crazy fun and sing along with all of the lyrics. From this experience, he knew that he wanted to the perform in front of a crowd that’s there just for him. His first concert ever, which was one that he opened for, was for the one and only “Because I got High” artist, Afroman. At this New Orleans concert, G-Eazy was very nervous, since he knew everyone knew of Afroman, and because he was always the quiet producer who rapped on the side, not the artist performing. Doing the concert was a thrill, especially seeing all the girls in the crowd. And although his performance may not have been the best, he felt like he killed it. It just goes to show you that having a positive mindset and just enjoying the experience can make all the difference.

G-Eazy describes the feeling of headlining as oppose to opening as incredible. He states that he feels like Elvis when people come to his shows, and it’s just a dope feeling. Although many independent artists take their career mainstream, G-Eazy wants to continue as an independent artist and entrepreneur as long as possible. Being an entrepreneur runs in his family, which is probably how it rubbed off onto him. His grandfather ran a map business from his own home, and his uncle was in a band. Since he grew up in a household with his grandfather and uncle, he grew up being exposed to people doing it all for themselves. This creative rapper may go hard on all of his tracks when it comes to being a lyricist; however, he can’t sing to save his life, so you won’t see him singing on any of his tracks. But, you may hear him do more collaborations with other artists because he’d love to work with Dr. Dre or B-real. He does wish he could sing though because he believes that would make him like Justin Bieber, and he’d have twice as many women in the crowd then. He’d also like to play a role in a lead movie like Rebel Without a Cause, so we’ll just have to stay tuned to see what this west coast rapper does next. Additionally, he’d like to get to know Rihanna – I hate to break it to him, but talking to her is all he’ll be able to do since Chris is back in the picture. He’ll be more likely to accomplish another desire of his than to get close to Rihanna, and that’s performing at Madison

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a track for the upcomi n g Ta y l o r Gang album. Despite being geeked about working with the famous Pittsburghraised rapper, J . R . Donato kept it inside and kept his cool. He states that it’s crazy working with Wiz, especially seeing him put everything together and because Wiz has such a positive vibe. J.R. says that Wiz goes in, records and just goes with it; he doesn’t write before he records. J.R. Donato has learned a lot from recording with Wiz, such as different ways to come off, ideas for when he writes and even different ways to carry his voice. J.R. hopes that by him working with Wiz that he can inspire people from his town by showing that any one of them could be in his shoes, and that you can do anything that you want to do. And this rapper doesn’t keep the wealth of knowledge that he receives from Wiz Khalifa to himself. He keeps his guys posted about what goes on in the studio, and he also provides his guys with advice from Wiz,

J.R. DONATO

Square Garden. Hopefully, he’ll even get his wish of girls screaming and crying when he walks onto the stage. He loves performing the track “Loaded” in front of an audience because it’s a fun, turn-up track that DJ Carnage produced. Although “Loaded” was his favorite song off his recent album, his favorite video to shoot was “Plastic Dreams.” The taping was a two-day shoot; 8:00am to 4:00am the first day, then only two hours of sleep and back to work to finish. The video pokes fun at modern-day rap videos and was the funniest one up until now for G-Eazy to tape. And the end result made the hard work worth it and helped him to work toward finishing the video. The meaning behind the song “Plastic Dreams” was based on his dreams about becoming an artist and about watching others doing what he wanted to do. It also gives some insight on how becoming an artist isn’t exactly what it seems, and it describes the ups and downs of becoming famous. The entire album is the story of a young, 20-something man, who’s fresh out of college. Basically, it’s about enjoying life, partying and trying to figure it all out. Obviously, Red Bull and coffee are oftentimes a necessity for this busy performer.

J.R. Donato is an up and coming hip hop artist. You may recognize him from the horror film Cabin Fever 2; however, he’s currently working on his mixtape, Different Altitudes. The album is about his ups and downs, his progression and the process that has brought him to where he is today, both musically and with life in general. During the time that he was writing this album, he was traveling and seeing different things, and this album reflects this. Although J.R. Donato occasionally does freestyle, he writes a majority of his work before he records. And one of the tracks that he wrote was “Juug,” a song easily relateable for people from the streets. He wrote the hook first, while keeping in mind his experiences and what he wit-

nessed, which spilled not just into the hook but into the entire song. The single “Juug” – which is a track produced by Lewy V – is about taking and a power move. J.R. Donato experienced the streets at a young age, which is his fuel for many of the tracks that he records. Although he might have ties to the streets, his father is what kept him from going overboard living the hoodlife. His father has always been there for guidance and to keep him humble. His father owned an independent label at one point in time. His father’s involvement in music continues to be useful when it comes to giving him advice and also supporting him and his dreams. J.R. worked with Wiz Khalifa on

since Wiz mentors him. J.R. informed us that it’s important to be surrounded by good people, set your foundation/have your groundwork and brand yourself, in particular be different and stand out. He also told us that it’s important to keep your faith in your work, stayed focused and to perfect your craft. For him, it’s not about having all club songs; it’s about “touching basis with the real,” since everyone has a struggle in their own way. He doesn’t want to fabricate too much, and he wants to continue rapping about his real life. Keep an ear open for his upcoming dubstep merged with hip hop track with Robotic Pilot Monkey (RPM). He thinks it will produce a different sound because it’s hip hop crossing over to dubstep. You can check out his music on his YouTube channel by searching for his username, Hoodieboy. You can also follow him on Twitter @ realJ.R.donato.

Currently, this witty hip hop artist is struggling to still make beats while touring. It’s a battle to get out his laptop and keyboard and continue to make new music to stay relevant. But don’t worry, G knows just how important it is to keep releasing music, so you’ll hear something new from him soon. For those wanting to enter into the world of hip hop, G-Eazy advises you to be patient and stay humble because if it doesn’t happen this year, you just need to work harder to make it happen next year. For G’s tour schedule, to buy tickets to his tour or to learn more about him as an artist, check out his website, http://www.g-eazy. com/.

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KIM Exit21Magazine: How are you today? Kim: I’m fine. Exit21Magazine: Where are you from? Kim: Heaven:-) Exit21Magazine: How old are you? Kim: I’m 20 years old. Exit21Magazine: What are your measurements? Kim: I’m 5’3, 34C,bust 26 waist, and 42 hips. Exit21Magazine: How long have you been modeling? Kim: I’ve been modeling for 2 years. Exit21Magazine: What about modeling do you enjoy the most? Kim: I enjoy being in front of the camera and lights. Exit21Magazine: What positive advice can you offer an up in coming model? Kim: Some positive advice I can give to an up in coming model is, don’t let anyone talk you out of your dream. Just keep your head up and keep moving forward. Exit21Magazine: What’s next for you? Kim: Well I’d like to take on the world. I don’t think you guys are ready. Exit121magazine: We thank you for stopping by. Where can the people find you? Kim: Thanks for having me. People can find me on twitter @RealKimKillz or on instagram @TheRealKimKillz Exit21Magazine: Any last shout outs? Kim: Shout Out to all my young ambitious ladies! Keep grinding!

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Coming Soon 30

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OUR SUPPORTERS

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Diamond

Raekwon

henever you mention the name “Wu-Tang Clan,” you think of legends. The name itself still holds weight in 2013, despite the evolution of hip hop through the years. One member of the Clan, Raekwon, is not letting age or evolution hold him back from making real hip hop. We caught up with the MC at the Sandy Benefit Concert; we talked about the changes hip hop has undergone and what he has in store for 2013. “People don’t use their minds in that way no more,” he said when talking about how much hip hop has changed since he and Wu-Tang Clan were dominant. “Back then everybody were MCs, now it’s all commercializing. It’s not a lie, back in the 1990s it was about the skill and art, not how much money, girls or weed you have. This leads to the point that since the old days of Grandmaster Flash, the genre has always refreshed its image and sound time-and-time again. To be fair to the leaders of the modern area, there are still good

MC’s helping the hip hop movement stay alive. Raekwon the Chef acknowledges that but the lyricism is not up to par. Where he comes from you had to be special and that’s what he tries to achieve. He showcases he is about that life with artistic flow that can still capture the youth of today. His last mixtape Unexpected Victory is certified gold on Datpiff.com with over 100,000 downloads and counting. So what can we expect for Wu-Tang veteran this year? He is currently working on the next album, working on his Canadian label Ice H2O and working with his artist JD Era. You don’t have to wait till the drop of his album to get new music. Raekwon has just released his mixtape Lost Jewelry, which features Freddie Gibbs and Faith Evans. Producers worked on the mixtape include Scram Jones, Frank G and more. Written by Chantel Cook

Astro

when you’re young. He believes that you should make music that is beyond your age. Astro is a 16-year-old rapper – who will be 17 in September – from Brooklyn, NY – Brownsville to be exact. This teenage star made his debut into mainstream when he appeared on Fox Network’s reality show, X Factor. Although the X Factor gave him a taste of fame, this youngster has actually been rapping since he was like three years old. While he may have been busting out rhymes as a toddler, Astro has been rapping professionally, meaning he’s been doing shows and had a manager, since he was about nine or 10 years of age. When Aaliyah said, “Age ain’t nothing but a number,” she may have been speaking in regards to relationships; however, this quote works wells for young musicians as well. Age really is nothing but a number, and you should never let it define you or hold you down, at least that’s what Astro wants readers and young, future hip hop artists to know. He believes that you should never make music that sounds your age

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Of course, he listens to artists like Kanye West, but he doesn’t really like most modern-day rappers. It probably sounds weird to hear that a teen likes old school, but Astro likes it because he enjoys listening the real rappers who have made it possible for the hip hop artists of today, including a Tribe Called Quest, Snoop, Dr. Dre, Big L, Biggie and Ice Cube.

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ince splitting ties with her former group Crime Mob, Diamond’s career has been one big rollercoaster. It’s been some good and bad points, which is common for most artists who leave a group. For the most part she has been branding herself and doing music. Music is her foundation but also a business woman. The Atlanta rapper has inked a deal with Secret Kisses Lipstick and started her own hair line called Diamond Dior. She uses social media to her advantage with Instagram (DIAMONDATL) and YouTube channel called Ms.32Flavaz, where you can catch her webisode Diary of Diamond. When asked if she would ever consider diving into acting, she surprisingly already has. She had a small role in a TV series in Miami called The Lick. Small roles are paying off for she is now working with Queen Latifah on a TV pilot. Would she ever consider reality TV? Her answer is yes but don’t expect her to be on Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta any time soon though (yeah we knew you were thinking that). Of course we couldn’t let the bombshell leave without asking her side of the story pertaining to the Crime Mob split. “It was a number of things that happen,” she said. Very common to artists, they had a lot of misrepresentation and people stealing money from us. Adding different personalities, transitioning to being famous public figures, problematic lifestyles and label running out of patience you have a toxic environment. The last straw was Diamond walking down the 2007 Dirty Awards red carpet by herself. All isn’t over with the group. In 2010, they did a mini reunion for 107.9 Birthday Bash. Until the Diamond album comes out she doesn’t see herself going back to Crime Mob anytime soon. With producer like Will Powers, Arsenics Heatmakers and artists B.O.B., Fred The Godson and more coming to be feature on your album, why would she. “It’s a whole new Diamond without losing the old one,” she says. “It’s grown, sexy and coming with the lyrics. Unapologetic with the flow and saying how I feel but giving women certain story lines they can follow and relate to.” Two producers she loves and wish to work with in the future are Dr. Dre and Timbaland. They have created and resurrected careers time-and-time again. She says those two raised her and understand their role as producers. Could you imagine Diamond lacing her raw lyrics on a Dre beat? That in her mind would equal “magic.” Her advice to young female rappers is to handle your business the right way. “I keep God first and have a lawyer to match. Their job is to look over everything that is given to you because a smile and hand shake don’t match what’s on the piece of paper.” Written by Chantel Cook

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Remsoicey Pole Classes Contact Me: Reminice (917) 742-6149

Astro

Cont. from page 34

Astro has many mixtapes out, but his Dead Beats and Lazy Lyrics is his latest project, and he took his time on this album because he feels that his last one wasn’t very impressive. As of now, he is signed to Epic, and he states that it’s a great feeling to be signed to a label, but it did take time for him to get where he is at today. He plans to put more music out this year such as another mixtape and an album. He also wants to do more shows, and he has a movie coming out this year. He does plan to dabble in acting as much as he can. It might not happen this year, but Astro hopes to one day work with Jay-z, since Jay could help him improve and be a better emcee. Astro thinks that Jay would have a few things to teach him. He states that some of the top emcees from Brooklyn include Big Daddy Kane, Biggie and Fabulous, and we project that he’ll soon be on this list as well. If you would like to know more about this fresh face of the hip hop industry, you can check him out on Facebook by searching for theastronomicalkid and on Twitter @theastronomicalkid. You can also search him on Google or YouTube.

The Exotic Dance Debate Well I’m not sure how they do it in your neck of the woods, but around my way we thrive in the night time. In the D, casinos, and a few nightclubs pop heavy but The Gentlemen’s clubs are our bread and butter. I’m certain this is generally the same throughout the states so it’s befitting that the Pole Queens get a little recognition. Now, I understand that this topic is a controversial one. Strippers are praised in videos and magazines and struck down in churches and courtrooms. The question is why? We must remember that these young ladies are still ordinary people. They slide their tight fitted jeans on one leg at a time no matter how ample their “assets” are so I ask ... Why all the hate? Could it be the money? I myself work a nine to five and I must admit a 10 - 6 on a good night in a “jumping” bar does way more numbers then my graveyard shift at 10.75 an hour. This cannot be denied. Moreover, the ability to purchase expensive bags, luxurious make-up, have the most stylish hairstyles and fabulous clothing would be appealing to any young lady but at what cost? Many would argue that Strippers are degrading themselves, that fast money leaves even faster and of course you could never expect to find or keep a respectable man with a profession as an exotic dancer. Some outsiders looking in charge that the “V.I.P or Champagne Room are just cells used for housing prostitution and lude acts where a money hungry female or one who does not value herself would do any and everything for a few dollars or some recognition. Well, this may be true in certain cases and totally untrue in others therefore I prefer to judge a person just that. Whose to say such negative connotations are only privy to strippers? Who made them the ones to bare the “Scarlett Letter A?” Ordinary

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secretary or assistant could just as easily make her way into her boss’s office, slither under or on top of his desk, and give it all she’s got for that same expensive bag or luxurious clothing. There are female dignitaries and women high in power that can’t run a secured household or keep a “respectable” man. There are those in this world who degrade themselves for sport and meaningless recognition, and they get praised? Now, I am no stripper advocate, nor am I their judge or jury. I’m just here to point out that these young ladies have to paint their face to perform in battle against all opposition; they bare the breasts of ridicule, tone the tormented torso of turmoil, and stride tall with the sculpted legs of hardworking and conditioned stallions. I applaud their talent and recognize them for having to endure disdain from those who have no place to pass judgment at all. I see strippers as innovators, hustlers, and respect them as gymnasts. Strippers use dance as an art, their bodies as brushes, and the night is their canvas. Don’t believe me... Then stop by KOD Detroit and holla at LACE and KARISMA or MDOT and BLAZE... DROP down to Houston and see the spectacle that is FLAWLESS, she took her acrobatics from Deja Vu in “The D” to the clubs down south. Look up MIZHANI who flew her insurmountable abilities to MIAMI and has gone nationwide. Their talent is undeniable. As I close I will say this to my dear strippers. Do something with your money, stay educated, don’t become complacent, become an entrepreneur, invest (if you’re getting it like that) because there’s nothing worse than ending a thriving career as a dancer with nothing to show for it. You cannot “lay it down and pick it up” forever baby girl..... And Strawberry Kay said that.

ady Sha BK is a hip hop honey from Brooklyn. For the past six years, she’s been getting her feet wet in the industry and continuing to grow as an artist. Because of this experience, she feels like 2013 is going to be a perfect year for her. In fact, she plans to do a lot of rapping, music videos, and freestyle videos. This NY native is a not just talented lyrically, she also has a talent for directing videos. She directs her own videos, so feel free to search for her on YouTube and listen and watch her creations. Currently, she has a mixtape out called “Got Mix.” She had another one out prior to this one that did very well in Atlanta. Her song “Improved” is doing very well right now on iTunes, and you can also see it on YouTube. Her main producer is Young Brooklyn, but she has also worked with a producer whose done work for Waka Flaka and Pretty Ricky. Lady Sha BK likes listening to music just as much as she likes making it. She listens to a lot of Jay-z because he’s always been present to her as a hip hop artist, and he influences her. As for artists of right now, she enjoys listening to Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj and Meek Mill. She feels that Meek Mill has a similar style to her own, so she would love to do a collabo with him one day. She would also like to work with Jay-z. Her plans for this upcoming year include more videos, shows and more mainstream. She wants her fans to see her out there more. She plans to release more mixtapes, do more parties etc. To any female, or even male, that’s interested in becoming a hip hop artist, Lady Sha says that you must stay humble because if you don’t, you’ll get caught up. She also says that you must be yourself, and you must know who you are in order to be successful. You can learn more about her and her music on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook by searching for Lady Sha BK.

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MAINO and THE MAFIA Made in Brooklyn

While doing music with others is entertaining it is ultimately filled with a purpose. According to Maino, “It’s not important for me to do the features. It’s important for the music to make sense.” As for future collaborations, shout out to GQ Beatz, who is producing a lot of music for The Mafia Project and EP album. It’s the new dudes, artists and producers alike, that add to the freshness of the music. Beyond that, his most important collaboration is The Mafia which doubly serves as a platform for its members and an opportunity for him, their boss, to give back. Evidence of their future success exists in the release of their mixtape, “The Mafia,” hosted by DJ Superstar Jay, which has over 100,000 downloads as we wait in anticipation of their EP album.

It’s quite the pleasure to see a troubled life make a turn for the better and furthermore for that metamorphosis to extend into others so that they too can benefit from such change. Maino’s checkered past is behind us as we watch his epic tale of this Brooklyn bred rapper further unfold to reveal a transformed man who has wised up and is focused on using his blessing and second chance in society to help others seek a life beyond the streets. With a history of 10 years imprisonment, Maino has been able to achieve the respect a changed man deserves in penance of his past. Since then, he has had several mixtape releases, 2 successful albums and launched his own record label, Hustle Hard Records. With the launching of Hustle Hard Records, Maino has created the group The Black Flag Mafia which includes himself, Push Montana, Lucky Don, Twigg Martin and Hustle Hard Mouse. At the close of 2012, they released their first collaboration mixtape, The Mafia, and are currently working on their EP album for E1 Music. When asked when we can look forward to seeing projects from Maino (the solo artist), he quite confidently explained that Maino and the Mafia, “is me. This year when we drop the official single and we come with the EP, it’s going to say Maino and the Mafia. It’s not going to be a separation of me. It’s still a Maino record, it’s still a Maino sound, and it’s still the same type of music that I would make. [I make music] for… the street. I’m not going to do a record like “That could be us!” for the Mafia project. But at the same time, being an artist allows you the ability to do different things and to do multiple things. I was never one of the niggas that could only do one. My most successful records aren’t gangsta street records. I can do multiple things. But, this right here- I wanted to do this and put my heart and soul into it and then get back to my own solo shit, because I feel like this can help me too! So, it’s not like I’m taking [myself] away. It’s not like I’m doing this and you don’t hear my music. It’s not like I’m doing this and stepping behind the scenes. I’m at the forefront of this so you’re still going to see me.” Maino the solo artist has worked with a other artists and producers, such as Beatz, Plies, Jadakiss, and Meek Millz, to name a few.

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host of Swizz T.I.,

INTRODUCING THE MAFIA Twiggy Martin is a Brooklyn-born rapper with plans to take over the world! Initially working behind the scenes, The Mafia has granted him the opportunity to work front and center with his crew. Check him out on The Mafia mixtape and the subsequent release of his solo mixtape, Good Mornin’ America which features producers GQ Beatz, Grindhouse and Superman Beats. To find out more, check him out on Twitter @ Twig_Martin. Lucky Don is one of the first rappers to form The Mafia. Representing Brownsville, he attributes his success to the grind. Outside of The Mafia, he has a production deal with Ty Phife as well as completed project called The Operation to be released next month. Look forward to a future collaboration with Buck Wild. To find out more, follow him on Twitter @IAmLuckyDon and @TeamLuckyDon. Hustle Hard Mouse is one of the members in The Mafia. He knows hip-hop’s fascination with the mafia lifestyle is nothing new. For years, record labels and rappers have promoted the mafia lifestyle and applied it to urban culture. Mouse on the other hand doesn’t see himself or his group mates doing that. He feels like The Mafia is more of an urban lifestyle that relates more to our culture and community. With projects including Hustle Hard Publishing Company and the release of his novel, “Gangstas Don’t Die,” (now available on Amazon.com) Mouse is making big moves. Find out more on Twitter/Instagram @ HustleHardMouse. Push! Also from Brooklyn, has been around Maino and his Mafia brothers for quite some time now. The Mafia is not his first goaround in the game. Push! Has been featured on big names projects, albums and mixtapes. He has graced The Source Magazine, been featured on MTV when he was Push! Montana before but this is opening him up to other opportunities. Push! Attributes his success to his old soul and his voice for the youth. There’s always a message to his music. The Mafia EP will be dropping soon as well as Push! Montana’s, “The 5 Heart Beats Vol. 2: Black Roses” EP. If you can’t wait any longer, his mixtape with DJ Drama, “When Push! Comes to Shove 2” is out right now! Find out

more on Twitter @PushOnDemand and @PushMontana and facebook.com/PushMontana. Maino and the Mafia have recently completed an upper North-East “mix tape” run in Connecticut, New York, Philly and Boston, to promote their record after it started heating up. Scheduling interviews with radio stations and doing shows at the clubs adds fuel to an already hot single inevitably ensuring success on the charts. “We put out that records and let the record catch fire, then work our way up and down [the coast].” With that recipe for success and his allegiance to the streets, he’s done a hell of a lot. It doesn’t matter if the publicity is good or bad as long as they’re still talking about you. Well, in late 2012, Maino was approached by documentarian Andrew Jenks to appear in MTV’s “Life of Jenks,” where he got to experience life with a rap star. Andrew describes Maino as, “the next biggest rapper. He is known as the hardest, most dangerous up and coming rapper in the game!” After accepting his role in the documentary, Maino spent a week showing what it’s like to have the lifestyle of a rapper. It was Andrew’s proclaimed misunderstanding of their different cultures that encouraged him to challenge the force behind Maino’s routine “music video lifestyle with his middle finger up,” that caused a violent reaction on Maino’s behalf. Ultimately, Maino reclaimed his cool in order to give Andrew the true experience of what it takes to be Maino. Their tour through the projects of Brooklyn and the story told along the way lead to an enlightening revelation to its viewers and those who judge the hood nigga. “Nigggas need outlets. It’s just not enough anymore to just say [to our kids], “Go to school!” Kid’ be like, “Go to school? My reality is my mother isn’t here and my father isn’t here, and there’s no food in the crib. I gotta do what I gotta do!” So, “Go to school,” just saying that is not enough. We [have] to be careful of what we’re saying because we have to at least lead by example. If I want to say something, I want to be able to have something to show somebody to point them in the right direction. Don’t give up on yourself because the streets and jail aren’t the end all be all. My story is very well documented. My allegiance to the streets or whatever it is… it doesn’t have to stop there. It can begin [in the streets] but it doesn’t have to end there. There’s something wrong with wanting to live to reach 30! There’s something wrong with that.”

shit! Niggas that’s in the street don’t really want to be in the street. Niggas do what they gotta do every day to feed their families but they don’t really want to be there. That’s the difference. These rappers are going to glorify what they want to glorify… but the truth of the matter is these niggas don’t want to be in the street. They don’t want these headaches. They don’t want the police and the FEDs running up in their house 4, 5, 6 in the morning- taking you and your family in. I had a song where I said, “My homie wrote me a heartfelt kite/ Five years of ballin’ ain’t worth doing life!” You understand what I’m saying? Because it’s real. Any nigga that’s really been in the street, any nigga that’s really been under the gun and really been under this pressure to produce and to feed a family, to keep his shit going, he’s saying to himself, “Goddamn! I wish I had the opportunity to rap, to act, to pick up a ball! To do this shit. What the fuck a nigga gonna do at that point when he’s 33 years old, selling crack, got 2 felonies. He’s selling coke, dope, weed- everything you can name all his muthafucking life- what is he going to do now? He’s dug a hole. He’s been doing this shit all of his life- he’s going to change it now? Don’t judge these niggas. Don’t undermine the pain that these niggas [are] in. So what, you might see them drive around in Bentley’s and Maybachs but don’t undermine the pain that niggas are in to go and accomplish these things.” Maino has transformed his pain into purpose and with that purpose has formed a group of skilled individuals dedicated to their craft and promotion of a life beyond the streets. To find out more about Maino, check him out Twitter/InstaGram @ MainoHustleHard and on facebook.com/Maino. Don’t forget to look out for their iTunes release of their anticipated EP, The Mafia. Written by: S.A. Prophet

Rappers typically sensationalize their rhymes with a story that they can only live vicariously through. Maino’s story is far from exaggerated and is still being written. Ex-con to successful rapper and ideal fatherfigure- those are titles he quite humbly embraces. When you hear him talk about that street life, know that he’s telling a story of his past for you to learn from. “Real niggas do real nigga

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his vivacious vixen was born in Los Angeles, CA. She may not look like your typical surfer chick from Cali, so maybe that’s why she moved to Queens, NY as soon as she turned 18. Although some women just fall into modeling, this 28-year-old dime piece wanted to get into modeling since she could remember. Back when she was a child, she would dress up, walk down the “runway: and pose in front of her mirror. Rosalis has a seductive look to her with a bangin’ body, which is probably the reason that magazine owners immediately took notice of her after she moved to the Big Apple. Since she was discovered, she has had the opportunity to work with various urban magazines including our publication. Since she was younger, she took notice of beautiful ladies in the industry like Naomi Cambell and Tyra Banks. Although Naomi might not be what you consider a role model, Rosalis looks up to her because of her fierce style, divalious ways and her ability to stay relevant in the industry for as long as she has. Rosalis states that Tyra is a role model, and her sexiness combined with her ability to dominate in other aspects of her career besides modeling make Tyra career something that she would love to model – no pun intended – her career after. Besides modeling, this fine female wants to get into music as well. And who knows? She may want to seek out acting opportunities too. In her own words, “There is no limit to where I want to take my career.” Just in case you’re wondering, Rosalis is taken – so back off gentlemen! For the aspiring models out there: this too-damnfine diva says that you must focus on your goals and not let others discourage you. Once you let others bring you down, it’ll be too hard to get back up. She wants to tell our readers to maintain a positive attitude and never give up.

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CONTENT ISSUE 4

RAY LAVENDER

Raekwon

MAMA JONES

rosalis

G - EAZY

SADY

DRUMMER BOY

Diamond

THE MAFIA

DA UNION DJS

12 Ketly D

PEEDI CRAKK

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LADY SHA BK

28 KIM

J.R. DONATO