INDIE INCOGNITO
ISSUE 1 JULY 2020
PREMIERE ISSUE !
REBECCA JADE Representing The True Indie Artist
SHELLY GARRETT Indie Incognito Exclusive HONORING A LEGEND By Doris Garrett
DEE BOWDEN "COLLECT THE CASH" Money Talk With Dee Bowden
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Photo by Kristy Walker
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to Indie Incognito. We are so glad you decided to join us on what is sure to be an eclectic ride, where we honor the independent entrepreneur in all of its forms. From musicians and actors to educators and financial experts, we want to give you exclusive access to those who are making a global impact, yet remain overshadowed by mainstream media. This platform will give the Independent a voice and more importantly, exposure, across multiple social media and print platforms. We are in the Celebration Business, and there's no time like the present to lift up and support the great work people are doing in our collective community. While recognizing the independent is our primary focus, that is just one aspect of our mission. During these unprecedented times of COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement, we will strive to bring a fresh perspective on these topics, along with how you can stay healthy and make a difference. Some other features will include Slay the Runway (Fashion), Photography, Minority Owned Businesses, and Straight Talk. (This will be conversations for the grown and sexy folks, talking about real issues on a variety of adult topics). Our Sound Off section for poetry and essays will have a call for submissions related to certain themes, as we are all about providing a stage for others to shine. Also, look for the Voices of a New Generation section, geared towards Gen-Z and Millennial hot topics. Please stay informed, be safe, and may you always be blessed
Enjoy !.
With Sincere Gratitude
JC Gardner Editor In Chief, Indie Incognito Magazine
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CONTENTS 27
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SUMMER TRAVEL:
SOUND OFF:
BEAUTY:
Carla Vault Scott
Uncivil Disorder
Najae Beauty
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Editor In Chief: Jackie Gardner 10 REBECCA JADE (Cover Feature) Tony Smith reports on the amazing career of the award-winning independent artist Rebecca Jade 15 INDIE FILM PROFILE: Carl Gilliard A Conversation With The Director 17 BUSINESS PROFILE : Dee Bowden "Collect The Cash" 18 INDIE INCOGNITO EXCLUSIVE: Shelly Garrett The Inside Story of a True Legend and Icon
" The Godfather Of Urban Theater " written by Doris Garrett 21 "STRAIGHT TALK" with JC Gardner
Photo by Brent Haywood INDIE INCOGNITO MAGAZINE
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SOUNDOFF !
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REBECCA JADE EXQUISITELY MADE
Rebecca Jade is one of those people you meet and it is literally impossible not to like her. I met Rebecca and her husband Rico in Palm Springs and we chatted about me possibly representing her. At the time she was working on a new album with her band The Cold Fact and I was inundated with other projects. Long story short, the business relationship never materialized as we both had hoped and we decided to part ways from a business standpoint. What had happened though, was we realized we had forged the beginning of a fabulous friendship and an informal working relationship simply based on opportunity. Needless to say I have had the opportunity to have a front row seat at a number of Rebecca Jade’s amazing live performances , as she always invites me whenever she is doing an LA show. For these reasons and more that it is with immense pleasure to feature my dear friend on the cover of the debut issue of Indie Incognito magazine.
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Photo by Sheryl Aronson
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Photo by Alicia-Shannon and Azeri Shannon
Click cd covers to purchase
Rebecca with Lynn Mabry and Shelia E
Rebecca Jade’s voice is the perfect blend of neo soul, jazz, pop and R&B. Having the ability to meld all of those elements together is rare and “Becca”, as I affectionately call her, has pulled it off. This has afforded her to flow easily and artistically with artists from the eclectic to the funky to the smooth. Rebecca Jade & the Cold Fact debuted in early 2013 and immediately became a southern California favorite and award winners in San Diego. Their debut self-titled release came out in early 2014, earning a San Diego Music Award as Best Blues Album that October. In the span of the next two years, Rebecca became a mainstay on the world renown Dave Koz’s Cruise and from an emergency fill in to now touring the world as a member of the amazing Shelia E’s band.
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Rebecca Jade has become a favorite at the legendary southern California smooth jazz spot Spaghetinni. She has been there as a special guest vocalist with some SoCal fan favorites but her solo shows there have brought in packed houses and she’s never disappointed the crowd. So what’s in store for Rebecca Jade ? New projects are in the works with The Cold Fact for sure. She is also working with super producer Kevin Flournoy. We will keep our eyes open and oh, check her out when Shelia E is in your town. For all things Rebecca Jade go to rebeccajade.com .
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The trajectory of Sonny’s musical career changed when his family suffered a terrible four-alarm fire that destroyed their home. Sonny lost everything in the fire, including his prized guitar. Down and out, the lifechanging experience inspired Sonny to begin writing lyrics and composing songs to express real-life stories of hope. Sonny’s talent as a guitarist allowed him to share the stage with artists he admired such as Angie Stone,
Neyo, and Anthony Hamilton, to name a few. Sonny has played in legendary venues such as the Howard Theatre and BB King’s, alongside the likes of Lyfe Jennings and
Our Indie Artist on the Rise is a talented young man from the
Elle Varner. In the fall of 2016, Sonny joined Jeremiah’s Kall Productions aka “C. NaTasha Productions”, designed to help young men move to the next level in their musi-
East Coast, Sonny Dumarsais
cal care ers.
Reynoldson “Sonny” Dumarsais (Due ‘Mar Say) is
Indie Incognito had a chance to catch-up to Sonny:
an accomplished singer/songwriter/producer and
Sonny, tell us how long have you been a recording artist?
musician who came from humble beginnings playing lead guitar for his church. Sonny joined a band
called “Plan B” and later changed their name to
I’ve been a recording artist going on 3 years now. I always enjoyed singing, and I sang in church choirs when I was younger, but I never thought to make it a career until I started singing the songs I wrote. My father is a singer and musician. He played saxophone as a kid and still sings at every wedding he can.
“The Plan Band.” The Plan Band helped Sonny
Do you play any instruments?
of talented musicians from the New Jersey area who were his best friends – they all grew up together in the church. The friends formed a band
form his signature sound by introducing him to
rhythm and blues. The band then went on to participate in many local and national gigs, including the McDonald’s gospel fest.
A . Yes, I’m a professional guitarist, I play drums and bass guitar. I want to learn Keys. Which famous singers/musicians do you admire and why? A. I admire many singers and musicians, that list can go on for days, but I personally admire the singers who also play like D’angelo, Maxwell, Miguel, Sir and Prince, just to name a few. All these guys are/were producers, as well as artists, and I respect that so much. That’s where I’d like to be.
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Who was your mentor?
A. New Jersey musician named Donnie Atis. He’s the one who encouraged me to play guitar when I was a drummer in an overly populated church, and he’s helped me become a true professional in every sense; I still look to him for advice. Do you write your own songs? Share that process. A. Yes, and I take pride in writing my own material. I like having a connection with my music that only I can feel. The process is usually me sitting at home or in a studio with my guitar just playing chords until I find a melody I like and adding some dope words and/or stories to them. I love a great song with a story. What advice would you give to those starting out who want to be a recording artist? A . Make goals, manage expectations, know where you are, know who you are and most importantly, don’t ever sell yourself short. What is your favorite quote or saying? A . “If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.” Anyone you want to give a shout-out to? A . Shout-out to my manager, Mrs. C. Natasha Richburg, for just being an amazing human being, and shout-out to my mother! Can you tell our readers how to reach you? Instagram- Sonnydumarsais / Twitter- Sonny_dumarsais / Facebook-Sonny Dumarsais
For booking information contact: www.cnatashaproductions.com Photo credit: Aisha Butler, Jazzy Studios
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CARL GILLIARD The Director Speaks Interview by Tony Smith
Employed Actor / Producer / Entrpreneur Carl Gilliard hails from Chicago/Detroit and is a veteran actor, director, marketer and producer. As an actor, Carl has appeared in dozens of theatrical plays mesmerizing audiences with his trademark baritone voice and fearless character portrayals. “INCEPTION”,” COACH CARTER”, “RED EYE”, “CONTACT, “HOUSE M.D “ and “24” are just a few of his notable film and television appearances. With Carl Gilliard’s experience in film, television & theatre, he quickly forged his niche as a Producer with keen discernment for developing and discovering new screenplays by new and exciting writers. He produced the Pan African Film Festival award winning feature “Retiring Tatiana”, “Section 8” (he also directed), “Applause For Miss E” & “Peaches”…all of which are available on DVD, the play “Steel Magnolias”, Dr. Gloria Morrow’s “The Things That Make Men Cry”, the 2014 NAACP Theater Festival and has consulted on numerous feature films and shorts. INDIE INCOGNITO MAGAZINE 14
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Carl Gilliard describes himself in the social media intro
Carl and I spoke at length recently about his career journey, some humorous experiences and how he has maneuvered in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic. Carl shared with me his workshop experience with legendary actor Bill Duke. One of his partner attendees was Oscar winner Taraji P. Henson. It was there that Mr Duke first asked Carl if he would work with him at his non profit organization. “ Tony I had no intention of working at a damn non profit at the time. I was trying to get paid.” Bill Duke did not let an opportunity go by without bringing his offer up and eventually Carl relented. That relationship has grown into one he says he treasures like gold. Currently Carl and Bill Duke are working on a variety of reality and narrative film projects including “ Black Diamonds ” which chronicles the evolution of African Americans in baseball and most importantly, the DUKE MEDIA YOUTH BOOTCAMP where "we teach young high school students media and financial literacy here in Los Angeles." Carl says working at the foundation has allowed his love for giving back to flourish. Passing the torch to the next wave of film directors, producers and aspiring entertainment entrepreneurs is his true passion. It is obvious that being a mentor to those needing and seeking guidance touches this man tremendously and that revealed itself clearly in our conversation.
I asked Carl about his new series Two Degrees Of Separation and he told me a funny story. I let him know I had watched, for the second time, an episode of Two Degrees. It was the one where Latonya Black’s line was “ Hi, I’m Latonya, your Face book friend.” Carl proceeded to tell me that actual line at a party is how he and Latonya truly met. They are now happily married and successfully operating Gilliard Media Group together. TWO DEGREES is a digital series that takes a comical dive into the extremities and dramatic turns of an actor who’s been on the ‘come up’ for decades. The series premieres on YouTube and other outlets, April 20, 2020.” [ source, Gilliard Media Group website]. When I asked Carl what advice would he give to the young ones venturing into the entertainment business he kept it simple. Study your craft. Build solid relationships. Be dependable and professional. Always give back because the knowledge is not yours to keep. Those are habit that can benefit us all. Please follow Carl at https://gilliardmedia.tv/
We discussed the issues of police brutality and social injustice. We agreed if we got any deeper into that conversation we would become lost in it. I asked Carl about how he is surviving in an industry that is pulling it’s proverbial hair out, during the shutdowns in Hollywood. He told me without hesitation that due to his personality and how he works, that he was totally prepared. “ Tony I am doing exactly as I had been before this mess started.” for the new generation stepping up and stepping loudly for their rights.
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Frank Kelly, JR Creative Paintings By Frank Kelley, Jr. Studio/Gallery West Monroe, LA 318-387-0043 artist1@bayou.com INDIE INCOGNITO MAGAZINE 20
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Toast It Up! By JC Gardner
Darnyell Demby is a government employee and for the past six years, she has been the owner-operator of Unique Occasions Events and Bartender Services in the DMV area. When she’s not at her corporate job, you can find her creating savory and sexy potions as a mixologist and bartender. “For me, mixing drinks, or shall I say, tasty adult beverages, is as much needed to survive as air is to breath. It gives me great joy to create something that is whimsical and exciting for people to come back and ask, ‘What was that?’ I call that the lasting effect of a great mixologist. It will keep them coming back, wanting to try anything my mind creates.” Darnyell used to be a serious-minded individual. Surprisingly, the bar world drastically changed her personality for the better. Interacting with customers became the highlight of her day. COVID-19 has made it difficult for all those who are in the food service industry. But with parts of the country slowly reopening, things are slowly starting to turn around, as her skills and services are in high demand.
Darnyell’s experience in bartending came through family ties and from friends who owned clubs, lounges and restaurants. She spent many hours behind the bar absorbing, learning and creating amazing cocktails. Her skillset is so top shelf, after she makes a drink once, her photographic memory locks it in permanently. When asked what makes a good drink, she notes, “one that does not have over-powering sweeteners or alcohol in them. One that is blended or shaken very well. I love my drinks to be tasty, but never want a customer to bring it back for being too sweet or too strong. Sweet and strong does not mean you have made a great drink; it just shows you can use a lot of fillers.”
With the lazy, hazy days of summer upon us, we can still toast it up, creating our own private party, in the context of staying safe and healthy. Darnyell shares three easy to make cocktails, including her favorite creation, Mermaid Water, which she says, “it’s like magic in your mouth.”
Darnyell knows her alcohol, as she is able to fluidly explain the differences between vodkas, rums and whiskeys. “Most rums tend to be on the sweeter side. I use them for more of my mixed drinks category -- those are the ones you can’t tell alcohol is even in the drink. Vodkas are very playful; you can make bold, mild or mellow drinks with them. Now my whiskey and scotch are for my more serious drinkers; my chill, classy and sassy drinkers.” Be Adventurous and Quench Your Thirst
Original Creations by Darnyell: Mermaid Water 16oz Cup 1/2oz Rail Tequila 1/2oz Pineapple Patron Liquor
1oz 1800 Coconut 1oz Pina Colada 1oz Blue Curacao Splash of Pineapple Juice Shake over ice or blend in a blender and serve. Continued on the next page...
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Grape Now Later 16oz Cup 3oz White Rum 3 Count Pour of Raspberry Syrup 3 Count Pour of Triple Sec 3 Count Pour of Huckleberry Syrup Splash of Pineapple Juice Shake over ice and serve
Green Tea (Bartender’s Training) 16oz Cup 2oz Jameson 2oz Peach Schnapps 1oz Sour Mix Splash of Sprite or Ginger Ale Shake over ice and serve
Darnyell Dembye (Dee) will be a regular columnist for Indie Incognito providing eclectic and exciting ways to toast it up! She is available for private services, weddings, social events, etc. Reach out to her at UniqueOccasions18@gmail.com.
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WE HONOR MR. JOHN LEWIS
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Summer Travel with Carla Vault Scott
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Summertime 2020 is here, and it is a summer that most of us have never experienced in our lives. Civil unrest and protests have blanketed the streets, as the murders of innocent black men and women reached a tipping point of mass proportion. The COVID-19 virus crossed borders into the United States and has been on a relentless attack ever since. In the midst of this viral nightmare, countless vacations, concerts, weekend getaways, family reunions, just to name a few, have been canceled.
What information helps you create a memorable experience for the client? In order to create the ideal vacation experience, I start by asking questions regarding hotel, resort, airline, and activities preferences. For example, what did you like or not like about your previous vacation accommodations. Additionally, knowing a client’s budget upfront is always very important. Continuing travel industry education such as attending travel industry events, training, webinars, certifications, and familiarization trips further assist me with providing the ideal vacation experience. The partnerships that I have developed over the years with the various travel partners and suppliers has allowed me to broaden my knowledge in the travel industry and therefore, be an asset to my client’s.
Summer Travel with Carla Vault—Scott For many of us, summer vacations are where we relax, release and re-energize. We need the blue/ green aqua waters of Caribbean; we long for that all-inclusive package at the resort, and we live for that swim-up bar at the pool.
Are vacations canceled? It doesn’t have to be. Introducing Carla Vault Scott of Kingdom Travel, who gives us some insider information on how we can still travel in style…and safely!
Carla, tell us about Kingdom Travel: For over 12 years, Kingdom Travel has been fulfilling vacation dreams, specializing in leisure travel to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Costa Rica and North America. Kingdom Travel is committed to creating vacations that far exceed the expectations of every client by providing the best service from beginning to end. As a travel advisor, I customize vacation packages at thousands of hotels and resorts in the world's top destinations. My clients include solo travelers, couples, families (multigenerational), and groups.
What are some of the services you provide? To enhance your travel experience, Kingdom Travel offers tours, excursions, adventure activities, car rental, and travel insurance, as well as passport and visa processing. As a certified Luxury Travel Advisor, I also offer domestic and international luxury homes and villas rentals.
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COVID-19 has impacted travel greatly. It seems like we are restricted to our own backyards. Is it possible to travel and vacation in or outside of the United States?
We are not restricted to only domestic travel because numerous countries have reopened and are welcoming United States tourists to visit. These countries have implemented entry regulations and quarantine procedures for U.S. tourists. For example, a country may require you to get COVID-19 tested prior to arrival and show proof of negative results. You may also be required to have a COVID-19 test and temperature check upon arrival at your destination. Other requirements that may be enforced at the destination is to wear a face mask in most public areas. Subsequently, domestic and international airports have implemented new travel guidelines and procedures to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. This information is important to know before traveling. .
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Travelers who are not comfortable flying can take advantage of road trips to the popular U.S. destinations. There are numerous vacation options right in our backyard to enjoy and experience. Whatever decision you make I highly recommend contacting an experienced Travel Advisor to help you plan and navigate your next vacation.
What is one of the biggest mistakes traveler’s make? The biggest mistake that travelers make is not buying travel insurance. Some people view travel insurance as an optional expense that adds an additional cost of the trip; that couldn't be further from the truth. You need to think of travel insurance as an investment rather than an expense. Life is unpredictable! I recommend to my clients to be practical and ensure that their dream vacation won't turn into a nightmare if something unexpected happens.
Do you have any advice for those wanting to start their own travel business? My biggest advice would be to do your research up front. Also, consider the possibility of partnering with an experienced, reputable host agency that provides branding, customer service, technology, marketing, training and accounting support. Starting your business the right way will be a contributing factor in your success. Carla Vault Scott has a M.A. in Human Resources Development and within the past year, was blessed to transition to working her travel business full-time. Carla, who resides in Maryland with her family, will be a regular contributor to Indie Incognito, helping you navigate to near and far away lands, as well as showing you how to get the most out of your travel dollars. Email KingdomTravel@comcast.net for all your travel needs.
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A NEW CONSCIOUSNESS #BlackLivesMatter
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ISSUE 1 JULY 2020 Photo by The United Black Golfers Association, Inc. (UBGA) officially incorporated in March 2014 and launched as a 501(c)3 social organization based in Laurelton (Queens), New York. Pictured is President Vernel Bennett.
Photo by Innisbrook Golf Resort [African American Owned]-Sheila Johnson 36750 U.S. Highway 19 North, Tampa, FL Palm Harbor, FL (727) 942-2000 InnisbrookGolfResort.com
Photo by The Golf Club of Dallas [African American Owned]- Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, Pastor Tony Evans The Golf Club of Dallas
Photo by
Forest Park Country Club [African American Co-Owned & Managed] 1821 Mulberry Road Martinsville, VA 24112 https://forestparkcc.org/
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Naja Eleese Smith
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Maurissa Stone founded Iona Concepts, Inc. in 1993 as Training and Change Management Consulting organization, which is the umbrella for The Living Well Center
The mission of The Living Well is to build diverse communities and develop social capital. Their goal is to address structural determinants of health and to remain dedicated to individual and community change by way of conscious expansion, soulful expression, and optimal wellness. Visit https://livewellbemore.com/
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Kase Qtr Smooth Jazz Corner For the past 10 years, Kase Qtr Productions has been successful in guiding, positioning, and managing Billboard chart-topping and Grammynominated recording artists Listed from left to right are Kase Qtr clients Carol Albert, Dee Lucas and Dreaming In Colour. Go to kaseqtr.com for more information.
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Publisher’s Page Indie Incognito understands me as much as I understand it. Dogedness. Fearlessness. Commitment. No fear of failure. These are some of the traits that help define someone who is a true Independent. Be it an entrepreneur, a film producer, a musician, health care worker, youth coach or a volunteer, the spirit of determination resides within.
Indie Incognito pledges to be your advocate. Providing a viable media source that champions your cause and gives you the recognition you all so richly deserve. In addition to our digital and print publication, Indie Incognito will help promote your business, non profit, event, product and / or brand to a much desired demographic via social media posts, Q & A sessions and other interactive measures.
I am an old school soul with a new school spirit. The youth of today have further inspired me to be an activist and advocate for justice. As we move through the marsh that is COVID 19 life, I have come to the realization that we, at Indie Incognito have a platform that will always be used to educate, entertain and uplift.
Tony Smith Publisher Indie Incognito
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