Hype Hair - August 2020

Intro

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SULFATE FREE PARABEN FREE

STRESS FREE

Micellar Water

Shampoo & Conditioner •Breaks Breaks down and removes excessive buildup of styling products.

•Gentle pH balanced formula cleanses the hair and scalp without stripping essential oils.

•Creamy conditioner moisturizes hair while detangling.

•Vitamins and proteins infuse hair follicles increasing and maintaining strength.

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Intro

•Enriched with Biotin (B-7) to support healthier hair grow th.

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CONTENTS 08 12 13 14 20 22 26 30

PRETTY VEE The Jane of All She Grinds Pretty AMARA LA NEGRA 5 Celebs We Wish Would Launch a Hair Collection KELLON DERYCK: Hot & On The Rise DREAM DOLL: The Real Story Behind The Storyline BRANDY: Baring It All On ‘B7’ Banded Beauty 8 Zodiac-Inspired Beauty Products To Add To Your Beauty Cabinet

Intro

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EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Jessica De Vault Hale Digital Media Director & Assistant Editor Stephenetta (isis) Harmon Hair Editorial Consultant Aissatou Josette Contributors Yana Marie, Eartha Terrell, Mimi Johnson Photographers Sed Baliem, Derek Blanks, Jasmine Hutcherson, David Justice, Drea Nicole, Stephon Williams Beauty Editor and Public Relations Erica Dias, The B Firm PR Marketing and Social Media Director Mimi Johnson Graphic Designer: Cornelia Solsjรถ

ADVERTISING Publisher Adrienne Moore amoore@hypehair.com Digital Trafficking Manager Stacey Rigney Chief Financial Officer Dana Rollins Chairman/CEO John Rollins (917) 690-5974 john@magconsultingteam.com Hype LLC PO Box 194 Mendham, NJ 07945 www.HypeHair.com 2020 Hype LLC. All rights reserved.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A New Normal Equals New Beginnings For the past few months, things have been busy at Hype Hair. COVID-19 has impacted not only the publishing industry but the hair and beauty industries, too. Everyone has been scrambling to pivot and adjust to our “new normal.”

But really, will things ever be normal again?

Perhaps, not. But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.

Like most of the world, there’s been a lot of change taking place right here at Hype Hair.

We’re no longer printing our magazine anymore and are strictly digital now. Like many of you, it took time to get adjusted, but we are excited about where the magazine is going. This shift doesn’t mean you have to give up seeing all of your favorite hair inspirations and editorial spreads in our magazine. Each month, we’ll release a digital book that you can enjoy on your mobile devices. This means you’ll get to read our celebrity cover stories, gather hair inspiration, and read about the tips and tricks your favorite celebrity hairstylists use, all in this digital book. That means you’ll be able to have the benefits of flipping through the magazine, without having to touch a hard copy.

Neither let the “new normal” sway them from adjusting. New beginnings, as these two effortlessly show us, don’t have to be bad, even when they are brought on by a pandemic. Some of the changes we’re forced to make amid adversity are the very moves that can elevate us to higher heights. Embracing a new normal is definitely a challenge, but the most successful among us find the silver lining and continue to focus on pressing forward.

Hype Hair is doing just that in 2020, and we hope you’ll join us as we continue to embrace the new beginnings that lie ahead.

To celebrate this new season, we are featuring the legendary, Grammy-winning songstress Brandy Norwood and celebrity hairstylist Kellon Deryck on our double-cover this month.

Both Brandy and Kellon are veterans in the entertainment and hair industries, respectively, and both have ventured into new projects this month. Brandy released B7, her first studio album in eight years. Meanwhile, Kellon is embarking on redesigning the concept of his hair salon in Atlanta and working on several major projects with some of our favorite celebs.

Jessica De Vault Hale Jessica De Vault Hale, Editor-in-Chief

Editor's Letter

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS, When you take time to think about your life experience, do you ever find yourself worried about your situation and/or future? The word “worry” means to feel anxious or uneasy about a situation, and to have one’s comfort or peace of mind disturbed.

Many times, worrying can stem from being fearful about either losing control or feeling as though you have already lost control. You may feel that it’s only natural to go through this type of experience, because we’re all human.

Worrying can leave you in an agitated state, sometimes making you feel helpless and unable to take positive action.

Worrying can wind up being a serious blessing-blocker. It’s important to know that even though we may find ourselves moving into a state of worry, we can control and transcend that state of mind through prayer and allowing ourselves to not be worried but concerned instead.

Being concerned allows you to relate to the troubling situation without being controlled by it. This allows you to think clearer, hear God’s voice, be open to His divine guidance, step out on faith and move forward. When I find

myself worrying, I try to immediately ask God to intervene. The moment I do this I can actually feel the burden begin to lift. I give God control. When I do this I come to the realization that as a child of God, I am supposed to be happy and joy-filled, have peace of mind and be out of harm’s way. I trust in God’s plan for my life.

Peace & Blessings,

Adrienne Moore Adrienne Moore, Publisher

Publisher's Letter

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PRETTY VEE

The Jane of All

By Jessica De Vault Hale 8

Pretty Vee

The multi-hyphenate star is nothing new these days. After all, everyone is adding on to their list of titles. Singer.

Producer. Chef. You name it.

But Vena “Pretty Vee” Excell is doing it all, and it all started from the comforts of her home and her social media page. The comedian and social media influencer amassed a following of over four million followers, creating hilarious videos. Then there’s her work on Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out as an established cast member. And don’t forget about her Citi Trends collaboration, where her electronic and beauty products are being sold. Oh, and did we mention she’s a rapper and beauty and fashion influencer, too?

Yeah, Vena is booked and busy.

That’s why Hype Hair was glad to catch a moment with the rising star to chat about her grind, her rise to Insta-fame, and more.

Pretty Vee

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PRETTY VEE HYPE HAIR: You’ve really grinded your way to the top, especially with the use of social media. What has that ascension been like for you?

VENA: The journey has been remarkable; sleepless nights and overthinking, and at times questioning my creativity, and also if what I’m doing will be fruitful and come true. I am more than grateful and appreciative for this opportunity.

HH: You’re known for your hilarious work on Wild ‘N Out. What has that experience been like for you?

VENA: The Wild ‘N Out experience is great, and each season brings forth new things I am constantly learning.

I am learning from someone as great as Nick Cannon. I love my job, and I feel so blessed this is my sixth season. I actually tried out in Season 9 and unfortunately didn’t make it.

And Season 11, they called me back as a cast member. This experience is unforgettable, and I feel so blessed, it has opened so many doors for me.

HH: Congrats, by the way, on your recent Citi Trends deal! How did the development of that come about?

VENA: I started off as brand ambassador for the company for almost a year and loved doing so because it was a brand I grew up being very familiar with.

Eventually, I had the opportunity to pitch my products and out of that the Pretty Vee electronic and Beauty collection was created. It’s now in over 570 stores in 33 States. And also shopprettyvee.com.

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Pretty Vee

HH: What are your top five beauty products?

VENA: (Anything by) Pretty Vee Beauty, MAC, L’Oréal, Mario Badescu Facial Spray, and Black Radiance.

HH: A lot of us were trapped in the house due to quarantine. How did you get by doing your own hair doing this time?

VENA: During the quarantine, I had the “Trick Daddy braids and the bonnet.”

HH: What products helped you get through your home haircare routine?

VENA: göt2b® edge control was definitely a product I used on a regular and my Chi flat iron.

HH: Considering that your hair look is always changing, what has your relationship with your hair been like?

VENA: My hair has always been thick, and my hair was breaking off due to the style changing all the time. So a haircare routine was started.

HH: How would you define beauty?

VENA: Beauty to me equals confidence and it’s within. It’s really about self-love.

Photographer: Sed Baliem Makeup: Lateisha Letman Hair: Jazzmin Wimberley Wardrobe Stylist: Jeremy Haynes Management: S. Keon FoleyGriffin / The Network and Company

HH: What projects do you have coming up?

VENA: Stay tuned. Making moves in silence.

HH: What advice would you have for young girls who want to be like you or be as successful as you?

VENA: Stay motivated, be persistent , and put God first in all things. It’s never ‘No.’ It‘s always ‘NEXT’. And a delay is never a denial.

Pretty Vee

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She Grinds Pretty

Amara La Negra

By Mimi Johnson Singer, actress, and star of VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Miami, Amara La Negra is a force to be reckoned with. Her fiery personality, talent and beauty keeps us entertained via her Instagram during the pandemic, and we’re also loving her new music single and video for “Andale!”

Grind Pretty caught up with Amara to talk about her favorite products, how she’s coping through the pandemic, her latest projects and more!

GRIND PRETTY: What are your five beauty product must-haves?

AMARA LA NEGRA: Beauty products that are a must have to me are: shea butter, coconut oil, a good exfoliator, a good beauty vitamin, and some bomb lip moisturizer

She Grinds Pretty is a collaboration between Grind Pretty and Hype Hair, offering interviews with influential women, beauty bosses, and up-and-coming brands.

To learn more about Grind Pretty, visit www.grindpretty.com

GRIND PRETTY: What is your mantra or motivational quote that keeps you going?

AMARA: If you want something bad enough, you’ll find a way to make it happen.

GRIND PRETTY: What are some ways that you’ve been coping with the pandemic?

AMARA: I’ve been coping with quarantine by gardening, spending quality time with my mom, self-care, and working on my music and my brand.

GRIND PRETTY: What has your relationship with your hair been like over the years?

AMARA: I’ve had my ups and downs with my hair just like everyone else. My afro is my signature look and because I’m so busy and often have to change my hairstyles at any moment, I’ve tried to keep my hair as protected and healthy as possible.

GRIND PRETTY: Which hairstyle do you feel most confident and powerful wearing?

AMARA: I feel the most powerful with my afro. I love my afro and I love what my afro represents!

Check out Amara’s Grind Pretty Box and more at grindpretty.com

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Grind Pretty

Photo Credit: Drea Nicole

GRIND PRETTY: What projects do you have coming up that you want readers to know about?

AMARA: My music video for my single “Andale” released recently!

I’m currently working on my second children’s book focused bullying.

New music is coming. Also, I have some collaborations with big brands which I will announce when the timing is right.

5 Celebs We Wish Would Launch a Hair Collection

Photo Credit: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic

Photo Credit: Christian Vierig/GC Images

Photo Credit: Instagram/@iamjonathan

By Yana Marie

One thing we can always count on our favorite celebs to do is show up and show out in the hair department. Whether you're fond of natural curls or prefer a sleek mane, the right hairstyle can take your look to the next level. Case in point: Ari Lennox.

The R&B songbird caused quite a stir after she revealed her growing tresses on Instagram. Captioning the photo, "My hair is growing..and I been using my special product." Fans have been trying to figure out if the star will be tackling the hair industry.

While there are some celebs like Taraji P. Henson and Kenya Moore with haircare lines, we couldn’t help but secretly wish more celebs would spread their wings to conquer the hair world.

Want to know who we think should consider adding hair entrepreneur to their resume? Read on and find out the starring product we think would fit their line.

MegAN Thee Stallion

Besides delivering the Hot Girl energy that we know and love, the Houston femcee always delivers when it comes to all things hair. While you can often catch the star rocking a sleek unit, she has quite the natural mane underneath. And with her vacation photos giving us all the natural hair feels, it's only right that the star considers trying her hand at products designed to give curls instant definition.

Megan’s Starring Product: Curl Cream

Cardi B

Cardi B is no stranger to the world of fabulous hairstyles. And while the star always brings the heat, her natural tresses also live up to the hype. Just recently, the star showed fans her hair masks she creates for herself and daughter, Kulture, that help to boost hair growth. Since Cardi B is all about her coins, maybe stepping into the hair arena can be next on her list.

Cardi’s Starring Product: Fresh Hair Masks

Yara Shahidi Another celeb known for her glorious curls, Yara never steps out without her curls in proper formation. Whether she’s rocking updos, fluffy fros, and anything in between, her natural texture always shines through. While the star has tapped into the makeup world, it may be time to explore the hair industry.

Yara’s Starring Product: Curl Boosting Jelly

Photo Credit: Instagram/@jackieaina

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Justine Skye Justine Skye has transformed into quite the hair chameleon. From her days as the Purple Unicorn to serving a wide variety of short cuts to long wavy units, the songstress always brings it. And while the star has proven that she can make any look her own, the sky is the limit if she decided to launch a hair line.

Justine’s Starring Product: Dry Shampoo

Jackie Aina

Jackie, Jackie, Jackie! The mega beauty influencer has been giving us life over the years with her extensive wig collection. From sleek units and curly wigs to colorful options and more, the beauty does not play when it comes to her hair. And yes, we absolutely love everything she has contributed to the beauty community, but we’re kind of holding out hope that she adds a hair line to her list of accomplishments.

Jackie’s Starring Product: Blue 360 Lace Wig

#Haircrush

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Photographer: Jasmine Hutchinson of JLavii Creative Director: Corey Ivory & Erica Dias Wardrobe Stylists: Diandre Tristan Barber: Lauren The Legend Makeup Artist: Japan

STYLIST SPOTLIGHT

Kellon Deryck Hot & On the Rise

By Jessica De Vault Hale When Missy Elliott’s album Iconology was released, the first thing we noticed was its eye-catching cover. It featured an epic shot of her name spelled out in cursive with her braids.

What we at first thought was a masterful Photoshop hack turned out to be a very hair real unit designed and installed by famed celebrity hairstylist Kellon Deryck.

Thinking outside the box for his clientele is par for the course for the Atlanta-based stylist.

Whether he’s flat ironing extra-long bundles for Megan Thee Stallion (like he did for her BET Awards performance) or crafting an amazing wig for one of his many clients, Kellon is always taking the hair game to the next level.

Before the star-studded clientele and flourishing career, Kellon got his start shampooing hair at the Charles Gregory Salon at 17. He

admits he took the job because a girl he liked worked there, but quickly realized that styling hair could be lucrative.

“I didn’t know where it was going to take me,” he told Hype Hair, while on set for his cover shoot. “I just knew that I always had a knack for it.”

A “knack” may be an understatement. Even as a cosmetology student, he was booking clients and skipping class to travel for work. Now, Kellon is living his best life working with some of the biggest stars in entertainment.

That’s why we were thrilled for him to be the first male cover star of our new digital magazine. Hype Hair chatted with Kellon abwwout his rise to success, star-studded clientele, and upcoming projects.

Kellon Deryck

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Stylist spotlight: Kellon deryck

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Kellon Deryck

HYPE HAIR: Congrats! You’re the first guy to grace the cover of our new digital magazine. How does it feel to be the first?

KELLON: It’s an honor. I’ve always seen Hype Hair magazines growing up and always referred to the magazines when I was younger for hair inspiration.

So, to be the first male cover, it’s kind of surreal.

HH: How have you been navigating COVID-19 and working?

KELLON: Well, I will say that as of right now, I’ve taken 15 coronavirus tests. Every set that I’ve been on recently, there’s been a requirement that, on that same day, you have to get a COVID test in order to enter the set. So, with the major projects that I’ve been working on, I’ve been happy to get tested time and time again because, as much as the world has stopped, there’s been some loopholes that we’ve found to work. So, I haven’t been just not working.

Now my salon, that has been something I haven’t opened up since COVID—only for health reasons.

And, I’m now in the process of turning my salon into a hair and wig store. So, I had to, you know, not dissolve it, but change up the business plan.

HH: You’re known for creating some pretty fabulous hair looks for celebs. What is your favorite style that you’ve done?

KELLON: There’s a lot of stuff in the works that I’ve worked on that are absolutely amazing, and I can’t wait for them to drop. But as of now, my favorite look that I’ve done so far, that I can speak of? I really love the Missy hair that I did for her Iconology project. It’s her name spelled out in braids. It just floated in the air, which was really cool to work on.

HH: We are constantly swooning over your works of hair art. How do you come up with your ideas?

KELLON: My creative process entails me literally sitting down with a pen and paper and just drawing these ideas out. I sit there, and I just sketch up a couple of ideas and then once I’ve found one that I actually love, I’ll send the picture to my client, and they’ll be like, “love it” or, “if you can do it, let’s see if you can do it.” It’s always a challenge, and I just love a challenge. It’s great to push myself each time that I have a great project.

HH: When you do your sketches, is it always specifically to the client?

KELLON: It’s always specific. I always think about the project. I look at the treatment of the project, and then I create something that goes with it. And it’s so exciting that they allow me to creatively direct for them when it comes to that because the hair ends up being such a major moment in the production. Like, for instance, Billboard, when I had City Girls attached to (each other at) their heads. I don’t want to say I made them do it, but I’ll just say I brought it to the set and said, “This is what we should do.”...Moments like this give me that sense of gratitude.

HH: Has there ever been a time in your career where you had a grand idea you couldn’t execute at the last minute and you had to switch gears?

KELLON: Absolutely. There have been times when I had an idea for something coming out one way, and I had to switch gears because it didn’t go exactly how I planned. But, you’ve just got to figure it out. You just make yourself love whatever you’ve got going on and make your client love whatever it is you want to accomplish.

HH: Do you still get excited when you work with new celebrities?

KELLON: It’s so crazy that you ask that because when I first started off doing celebrity hair, I personally had anxiety issues. So, I had to kind of get a grip on it, because I started so early. My first celebrities were when I was in hair school. I literally was in hair school, skipping school [and] taking leaves of absences to travel to go do celebrities’ hair I had booked. And that was years ago. I had to mentally turn these clients into my friends, so that way, I was comfortable just doing hair without being all shaky. So now, I have a mental grip on it because I’ve been doing it for so long.

Kellon Deryck

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Stylist spotlight: Kellon deryck HH: What are the hair and beauty tools you swear by?

KELLON: I created a lace glue called Flawless Illusion Glue, and this is a product that I actually swear by because it lasts through sweating and dancing, heat, and swimming. It’s really good for ponytails because you can get a really tight pull without the lace wig coming up. And it’s easy on your skin—it comes off very easily with a simple solvent. So, that’s something that I do swear by. I’ve been testing out a lot of different products, and there’s a lot of products out there that I do love, but I’ve mimicked my product to be the best of everything that I’ve worked with.

HH: Is that a personal product that you use for yourself, or is that for sale?

KELLON: It’s private as of right now, but it will be available in September. September is going to be the release of the actual adhesive, as well as, a hair growth shampoo and conditioner that I’m coming out with hair drops, oils to grow the hair.

HH: When styling celebrities’ hair for editorial projects and events, how much is haircare a part of your focus?

KELLON: Haircare is extremely important. That’s why I formulated the shampoo and conditioner that I use specifically on my clients that grow their hair under their units. We don’t want to just put their hair away and not care for it. We want to make sure the hair is properly oiled. We want to make sure that their hair has the proper products in it for it to have its optimum amount of growth and just making sure that my clients stay up on it. I make sure that they get their hair shampooed regularly in between their units.

HH: What has your relationship been like with your own hair growing up?

KELLON: I’ve been through many stages of different hairstyles. I’m from Boston, and I have a lot of friends that are of different races, and their parents let them do whatever they wanted to do. So, I was the rebel that decided that I was going to come home from school one day with blonde hair.

HH: Oh, you tried it! What did your parents say?

KELLON: My mom freaked out. My dad freaked out, and I was just not changing it. So I had to let it grow out, but I always experimented with my hair, and that was back when I was 11. I was just looking at people

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Kellon Deryck

like Sisqo, like, “Ooh, that’s cool.” I’ve tried dreadlocks, braids. I’ve tried long hair, short hair. Recently, I colored my hair blue. I try different stuff, but I always go back to the clean, healthy, natural look because that’s what more represents me and my brand.

HH: You clearly have a great beard game going on.

How do you maintain it?

KELLON: Believe it or not, I’ve been using that hair oil that I’ve been testing out for growth, and it’s crazy because my beard has gotten so much fuller. And, I use it on my own hair, as well. And just good genetics and drinking water. I drink a gallon of water a day and never miss out. It’s just, you know, taking care of yourself, as a whole.

HH: You’re also making music now, right? What can we expect to hear from your work?

KELLON: I’m just doing whatever creatively motivates me right now. I like music that makes me smile, so it’s uptempo beats. It’s not so much rapping -- more singing and pop. I have some really exciting features that are going to be on some of the songs that I’ve done. I’m excited about that and excited for the world to hear the new Kellon.

HH: Between the music and the work you’re doing for your clients, you’re just not going to be sleeping, are you?

KELLON: Well, hopefully, I can go on tour with one of my celeb clients and open up for them and do their hair on the side!

HH: What projects do you have coming up?

KELLON: (I’m) super excited about the artwork that has been created for Megan Thee Stallion’s new projects. We’ve totally changed her image, and I’m so excited to be a part of it. That’s exciting. I’m super excited about the look we did for Teyana Taylor. We did her MAC campaign. We did the Grace Jones inspired looks and some very ‘90s- inspired looks, which was really fun. She’s definitely a person who can rock anything.

HH: Do you have any words of advice for aspiring stylists who want to reach your level?

KELLON: I would tell them to make sure that they network with other hairstylists. Form great relationships with people that can catapult their career.

Kellon Deryck

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Photography: David Justice @davidjusticephoto Hairstylist: Arrogant Tae @arrogant_tae123 using @ beyanihaircollection Makeup: Janell White @moon.light.glam using iEnvy

by KISS @ienvybykiss lashes Wardrobe Stylist: Syeidah Mc.Bride @styledby_sy Project Coordinator: @handzdirtypr

DreamDoll

The Real Story Behind The Storyline

By Jessica De Vault Hale

For many of us, our introduction to DreamDoll was on the 16th season of Bad Girls Club on Oxygen. But we truly got to know her and her passion for music on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: New York. She only stayed for one season, but she made a lasting impression on fans.

Since then, we’ve gotten to know DreamDoll for her music, including her albums Life in Plastic, Life in Plastic 2, and her recent chart-topping single “Ah Ah Ah” with Fivio Foreign, which was rated at No. 6 on the iTunes Hip Hop/Rap Charts at the time of publication.

The trap single is a summertime hit that we didn’t know we needed. Those who weren’t familiar with DreamDoll as an artist–outside of Love & Hip Hop–realize that there’s more to her than a recurring role on television. Music has always been the focus, she tells Hype Hair.

“I wouldn’t say I’ve had struggles, but there (have) been some challenges getting people to take me serious as an artist and not just a reality star or a pretty face,” she says.

And when she’s not releasing new music, she’s snatching the edges of her 3 million followers on Instagram with her ever-changing looks. One minute, she’s in a lime green blunt bob the next, she’s rocking bundles that nearly touch her toes.

She left us shook with her cover photo lavender bob, styled by celeb hairstylist Dionte Gray, better known as Arrogant Tae. “My inspiration behind this cover photo for Dream was very fairytale, girly and soft,” says Tae. “I used a soft pastel lavender purple, mixed with blue highlights, layers, and volume. I got this look from a baby doll I seen with this purple hair and big eyes.

Because Dream is a doll, my personal doll, I mimicked the look on her.”

Tae adds, “I keep my looks fresh and new for each of my clients by staying up to date with the latest styles and creating new looks to start trends. For each client, I always envision what looks best on them, what fits best, and what looks have they never tried. From there, I start building and creating.”

DreamDoll says she loves to switch things up, especially when it comes to her hair. “I love anything blonde hair! Bobs or short cuts are everything. It’s so different from my everyday look,” the rapper says. “It makes me feel like I’m in full costume, working with my glam team; all my looks are a full production!”

When she’s on the road, not only does her glam squad travel along but so does her wigs. The hair units have their own luggage and accommodations when they aren’t in the hands of her trusted stylist Tae. And when she’s not in full costume performing, she’s taking care of her own hair with products like Hair So Flourish and deep conditioning her own tresses once a week.

The stunning beauty has come a long way, especially since ditching her roles on reality television.

But she says those shows gave her the boost she needed to take her career to the next level. “(The) TV show and YouTube gave me a way to share my reality,” she says. “It gave people a glimpse into my life and further grew my audience/platform. So, not much has really changed— just more music, less drama, and no storylines.”

DreamDoll

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Brandy Norwood

Brandy Baring It All On ‘B7’

By Jessica De Vault Hale There aren’t many performers who can say they’ve enjoyed a fruitful career for nearly three decades. But Grammy-winning R&B singer Brandy Norwood has done just that. She captivated audiences when she hit television screens as a teen on Moesha. We quickly fell in love with the relatable spirit of her character and watched every week to see how her hair would be styled next. At a time when representation was limited, watching a coming-ofage show revolving around a young, Black girl with braids was significant.

When she wasn’t gracing the silver screen, she was contributing heavily to the ‘90s R&B sound with hits like “I Wanna Be Down,” “Sitting Up In My Room,” and the unforgettable duet, “The Boy Is Mine” with fellow songstress Monica.

Her work didn’t stop there. Brandy gave us six albums, countless appearances on the silver

screen, and ever-changing protective styles that we wanted to try on our own at home.

She took a break from recording to focus on raising her daughter, but that didn’t stop her creativity. She starred in Broadway’s “Chicago,” and even dropped a tune here and there.

But, now, the braided diva is back with a new album and a new vibe. Her latest project, B7, is her seventh studio album. Not only is this the first project to be released through her imprint, Brand Nu, Inc., but it’s also her most personal album to date and her first one in eight years.

The singer tells Hype Hair that she penned much of the album herself and is eager to see what her fans will think of her latest project.

We caught up with Brandy to get the details on her new album and a few of her hair and beauty secrets.

Photographer: Derek Blanks Wardrobe Stylist: Ashley Sean Thomas Makeup Artist: Gabriela Torell Hair: Kim Kimble

Brandy Norwood

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COVER STORY: Brandy Norwood

HYPE HAIR: I know your fans are very excited to hear this new album from you. What was the creative process like for you on this project?

BRANDY: It was definitely different because it’s like my own perspective of myself; finding ways to trust my own lyrics and to go with my creative gut. Being around people who are rooted and solid in that craft, being nurtured... I felt like I’m being honest; I’m being transparent, and that felt right to me. That was something that was needed, and I hope people can respect that and appreciate that and relate to that and feel like when they hear the music, they’re listening to all of you and the truth of who you are.

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Brandy Norwood

HH: What are your favorite tracks?

BRANDY: My favorite track is called “Borderline.”

I just absolutely love it. It embodies everything that I am as a vocalist, as a lyricist. It just tells such an amazing story about love, and I just feel like it’s the sound of the album. And, I love the new song that I just released on Apple Music called “Rather Be.” It’s a love song. It’s the kind of song that my fans expect me to sing and it’s beautiful. I love that I was able to take the time to put together a body of work of quality R&B music that I can look back and be proud of. And people can really listen to it and play it from top to bottom and escape, you know. That’s what it’s all about.

HH: Well, you’ve inspired so many people with your music and voice. After all, you’re known for being “The Vocal Bible.”

BRANDY: It was off-putting at first, but I didn’t really understand it. With so many amazing vocalists out there that don’t get the credit they deserve, I just feel like that’s kind of a huge thing to call someone. That’s like big time, but then a lot of pressure came with that, having to live up to having amazing, amazing vocals. But then when I thought about it and lived with it for a little bit, I’m just super humbled by it.

HH: Many of our readers grew up watching Moesha. Seeing Black girls being represented so accurately on-screen was so important back then. Did you know at the time that you were impacting the culture so significantly?

BRANDY: I didn’t know at that time. You know, I was super focused and serious about my craft and my work ethic. But, I didn’t really understand my impact.

I didn’t really know everything that was happening.

But I look back, and I appreciate it so much. When people see me or come up to me, they have really nice things to say about just how I touched their lives Brandy Norwood

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COVER STORY: Brandy Norwood

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Brandy Norwood

someone that looked like them on television and how that encouraged them to push forward in their life. Like those things means so much to me... I’m just so grateful that I was able to have vthose experiences; to be able to be a vessel to shine a light in someone else’s life. You can’t beat that. That’s why I was doing what I was doing.

I wanted to be an example, but I didn’t really understand. I was too young.

HH: Your signature style, then and now, has always been your braids and protective styles.

But how would you describe your relationship with your hair?

BRANDY: I absolutely love the braid culture. I love braids. I love twists. I just absolutely love natural hairstyles, and I’m always in braids. I’m always in them like every other two or three weeks. I use a lot of different shampoos and conditioners to take care of my natural hair and a lot of oils. I always wear protective styles. I’m a low maintenance girl. I use a lot of the oils from [celebrity stylist] Kim Kimble and a lot of the sprays from Dr. Kari [Williams]. My hair is so healthy because of those two women.

HH: How do you keep your braids looking so fresh and new?

BRANDY: I always use a sheen to make them shine. So, I use oil to make my natural hair stay healthy in between, and that’s about it.

HH: What was your hair philosophy as a parent with your daughter as she is growing up??

BRANDY: I’ve always promoted healthy hair with her. I’ve always done right by her hair. I was her first hairdresser. I did her hair a lot, but then she got into braids. So, you know, hair artists like Dr.

Kari will put her braids in. So, she started doing her braids and making sure that her protective styles were amazing. She has beautiful hair, but she cut it, though. She said, “Mommy, it’s just hair. It will grow back.” She cut it in a beautiful style. But, I know hair has been a beautiful expression for her.

HH: Now, you know, we have to ask about your beauty regimen. You look like you haven’t aged since the ‘90s. What’s your secret?

BRANDY: Well, I drink water, for one. I think water is super important. And I do use a facial wash, and I use cocoa butter. That’s been my main thing for a very long time, and I feel like, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it, you know? I’ve been using cocoa butter for years.

HH: For someone who has been in the limelight for so many years, what does beauty mean for you?

BRANDY: Beauty is positive energy. It’s attitude.

It’s an aura, how you take care of yourself within, and then it reflects on the outside. And of course, it’s how you take care of yourself on the outside, as well. It’s how you treat yourself; it’s how you treat others.

HH: What do you hope fans will take away after listening to B7?

BRANDY: I just really hope that they can connect to my transparency. I hope they can connect to my sound. I hope that they can feel my heart, feel my love, feel every emotion that I’ve tried to convey on the album. And, I hope they can see themselves and hear their own experience throughout my lyrics and my music.

Brandy Norwood

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Banded Beauty 28

Banded Beauty

Photographer: Stephon Williams Model/Hairstylist: Candice Walton Makeup Artist: Madison Maria Neal Wardrobe Stylist: Alexandria Grimes Banded Beauty

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These 8 Zodiac-Inspired Beauty Products Are a Must

By Eartha Terrell Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but there is something to be said about beauty goodies designed with your specific astrological sign in mind. And despite the season or trend, some argue that astrology can provide all sorts of context to the complexities of our personalities.

Traditionally, we look to horoscopes for forecasting our relationships and personality traits, but our signs can also provide telltale clues as to what hair, makeup, and skincare products we may enjoy, too.

The Zodiac Cosmetics Capricorn Makeup Palette Capricorns are known for their determination, discipline and at times, unwavering stubbornness. The Earth sign oozes practicality and a hard-work ethic. The Zodiac Cosmetics Capricorn Makeup Palette includes 12 beautiful neutral tones that perfectly capture the goat’s uniqueness.

If you’re on the market for a fun zodiac-inspired beauty haul, check out these goodies we recommend!

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Love By Luna Zodiac Nail Polish From ballet-slipper pink tones for Libras to delicate and neutral tones for Virgos, Love By Luna’s zodiac nail polish makes magic come alive with its cosmological nail polish collection. Designed to bring out the best in every sign, each polish contains a unique blend of micronized crystal to encourage personal growth and healing.

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Zodiac-Inspired Beauty

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BH Cosmetics Zodiac Love Signs If you’re looking for a makeup palette that embodies every personality of the zodiac, then BH Cosmetics Zodiac Love Signs is perfect for you. Complete with an arsenal of luminous and vivid enchanted shades, this palette will make you feel just as beautiful as you look. The collection includes 25 colored eyeshadows that come in a celestial spectrum of sunkissed hues and cool cosmic shades. It also features 12 buttery mattes, 12 baked shimmers, and a luminous baked highlighter.

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Ofra Long-Lasting Liquid Aries Lipstick Ofra’s Long-Lasting Liquid Aries Lipstick is the perfect personification of the confident and enthusiastic fire sign. This matte liquid lipstick is a pink nude color that glides onto lips like a velvety dream and won’t easily fade away with little transfer.

Your lips will look kissable and feel comfortable as this lippie is infused with Vitamin A and antioxidants for maximum hydration.

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Urban Decay Moondust Urban Decay’s Moondust is a perfect combo of glitter-infusion and uber glam.

If you’re next look calls for an intense, yet vibrant hue than Moondust may be the answer. Not only does this exceptionally glitzy eyeshadow ooze class, but it also applies like a cream with a powder finish, complete with 3D metallics. Your eyes will turn heads as this dust provides depth, sparkle, and sophistication.

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Zodica Pisces Zodiac Hair Perfume Serum This hair serum is 100% vegan and paraben-free.

According to the brand's website, it is harvested by a Moroccan Berber Women’s Co-op. Enriched with pure argan oil, it immediately goes to work when applied to the hair by adding moisture and hydration.

For best results, apply small amounts to ends to prevent hair breakage and healthier strands.

Botanicals Beauty Zodiac Body Oil Ignite your senses with Botanicals Beauty all-natural Zodiac Body Oils collection. This collection features some of the best aromas that Mother Earth has to offer. Formulated with a base note of pink champagne combined with a unique floral or shimmer accent, you are sure to leave a lasting impression and feel beautiful no matter what sign you are.

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Seasons KISS Aquarius Zodiac Body Truffle Seasons KISS Aquarius Zodiac Body Truffles is a sweet-smelling concoction with customization in mind. Created by Denise Blank, this creamy and smooth moistening body truffle is part of a zodiac collection. What’s fun about wearing this or any of SK’s zodiac body truffles is the ability to switch them based on how you’re feeling. There’s something for everyone.

Zodiac-Inspired Beauty

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