Ladies of Hip-Hop Magazine Vol.1

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN HIP-HOP

VOL. 1 FESTIVAL ISSUE

DJ Kaotic Blaze by Loreto 'Still1' Jamlig

editor's note

Welcome

to Ladies of Hip -Hop Magazine A magazine dedicated to representing and celebrating women in Hip-Hop and street culture.

I can't believe it's finally happening.

We are launching a whole magazine! I am a 70s baby and magazines were a big part of my childhood. I remember saving up to get my RightON! or the new Ebony.

Growing up, there weren't that many magazine publications available that featured people like me. But then emerged Honey magazine, Source magazine and other Hip-Hop focused publications which changed the landscape and helped create a platform for representation.

In launching this magazine, my goal is to continue that legacy of representation, celebrating womanhood and providing readers with an authentic look at life through the female lens. I can't wait to show you what LOHH Mag is all about. So, LET'S GO! Thank you for joining us.

Much love! xoxo

Michele Byrd-McPhee Editor in Chief

by Michele Byrd McPhee

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SHE PLAYING!

Take a look into some of the dopest female DJs keeping the underground scene LIT!

DANCE MOMS

We can do it all? We talking bout it ladies... mommies, wives, dancers, choreographers & everything else you do. How you keep it together and the folks who support you.

STREET STYLE You Sneaky!

Check out the 2022 Ladies Battle Winners & some of our favorite competitors from around the world.

TELL ALL..

#ShernitaBeKnowing

she playing

DJ Mari-Ella at the 2019 Ladies of Hip-Hop by Loreto 'Still1' Jamlig

We sat down with our resident DJ Tiff Starr & DJ Mari Ella to talk about their commitment to the art form of DJing & see how things are going in their worlds...

Q. Everyone has a story, what's yours?

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

A. DJ Tiff Starr I’ve been surrounded by music my whole life. My father was a house party DJ that went by the name of “Freestyle.” I fell in love with Hip-Hop and the whole culture. It wasn’t until I moved to New York City in 2007 that I got into the party scene....

One random day, I was walking by Guitar Center on 14th street and saw a Numark DJ start up kit fully stocked! I first started teaching myself, and then I decided to check out classes at the New York Scratch Academy by Jam Master Jay.

"YOU CAN’T WALK BEFORE YOU CRAWL SO WHY SKIP THE FUNDAMENTALS OF THIS ART FORM?" -DJ TIFF STARR A. DJ Mari Ella I started DJing in my late thirties. My first love is music but I guess I took a long detour with being a dancer (haha!).

In my late teens some of the B-Boys in my crew were also DJs/ producers.

When I moved to NYC in my mid 20s , I started going to all these dope parties with amazing DJs like Rich Medina, Spinna, Louie Vega, & Reborn, which I'm really grateful for.

I first tried to teach myself but realized soon that I wanted to learn the ABCs correctly. So I took some lessons with DJ Rob Swift from the X-Ecutioners.

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Q: what track never gets old for you and what track can't you stand to hear?

A: DJ Mari Ella MAW's remix of Kenny Lattimore's "If I Lose My Woman" I can never NOT hear. Rob Base "It Takes Two" and Aly us "Follow Me" will definitely make me take a bathroom break.

A: DJ Tiff Starr “Party & Bullshit” by Biggie. I just LOVE dropping that track. I don’t like dissing music but “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen is a song I don’t think I will play. EVER!

Q: Who's that person in the DJ world you most respect and look up to?

A: DJ Tiff Starr I honestly respect ALL dj’s, but if I have to choose one, I will pick a crew “ The World Famous Beat Junkies” All of them are not only phenomenal DJ’s but as individuals they are the most humble, caring and giving humans. They opened The Beat Junkies Institute Of Sound for upcoming & experienced DJ's. It’s one of the illest spots in Los Angeles to learn, create, and get open on the longtagon.

2019 LOHH Fest DJ Team L-R: Mari Ella, Tiff Starr, Kaotic Blaze, Sabine Blaizin Loreto 'Still1' Jamlig

Q: If you could eternally be stuck in one year's music scene, what would it be?

A: DJ Tiff Starr 90’s all day, everyday!

A: DJ Mari Ella I wish I would have been able to be of partying age in the late 70s. I'm born in 1979 but I missed all the fun.

Q: Who is that person in the DJ world you respect the most?

A: DJ Mari Ella I respect any DJ that has respect for music and who manages to make a living playing music.

Extra props to all veteran DJs who have an open ear to new and up-and-coming DJs and give them an opportunity when they can.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge living the life of a DJ? A: DJ Mari Ella ...the life of a DJ in NYC" - That's what the question should be. haha. The answer is, to make a living!!

Q: What’s the biggest challenge living the life of a DJ? A: DJ Tiff Starr My biggest challenge is being able to go out to late night parties like I used to. I am a mother of two baby girls that need me at a drop of a tear and my time with them is precious. I just keep reminding myself that they will never be this small again and my time with them is precious.

Don’t get it twisted though, I’ll be doing some late nights here and there but in the meantime, keep booking me for the day time gigs! My girls love to see mama spin.

Q: What is something that bugs you about the DJ scene?

A. DJ Tiff Starr: Something that really bugs me about the scene, is that most djs assume that we as females dont know how to hook up our own equipment. I do at times need help with lifting here and there but for the most part, I got it! ;)

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2022 LOHH Fest DJ Team L-R: Sabine Blaizin, Mari Ella, Tiff Starr, KaoticBlaze by Loreto 'Still1' Jamlig

Q. There are a lot of female, DJ "personalities" with large followings, spinning, massive parties… What's your opinion on them & the use of social media?

A. DJ Mari Ella If the skills match the hype I don't see a problem with being a so-called "DJ personality". It becomes problematic when promoters solely put women on because of the way they look or their following. Social media as a whole, has become an essential part of being an artist in general. Your image does play a role in one form or another. I just think that it should never be more important than the actual art & craft of DJing.

A: DJ Tiff Starr I hope they respect the art form. It’s really heartbreaking when the DJ is terrible but their hair and face is 100. I use my social media to share music and events but it’s also used to share my life outside of djing and to inspire other wives & moms. Follow me @DJTiffStarr ...LOL Q: What is something that bugs you about the DJ scene?

A: DJ Tiff Starr Something that really bugs me about the scene, is that most DJs assume that we as women don't know how to hook up our own equipment. I do, at times, need help with lifting here and there but for the most part, I got it!

Q: Last thoughts or comments?

A: DJ Tiff Starr I’m grateful, honored and blessed to be able to do something that I love. So many women lose their identity when they become a mother. I was once given the best advice by my dear friend BGirl Jeskillz, she said “show your kids who you are, not who you used to be before them.”

Upcoming DJs need to do their research and take time to learn the craft.

Technology has been a blessing and a curse at the same time because it takes away from actually learning and mastering a skill. You need to develop a style, you want your crowd to know it’s you spinning before they even look up at the booth.

A: DJ Mari Ella Even though I'm probably (one of) the oldest DJ rookies in a minute, I'm very grateful that I get to practice this artform and share music. It's definitely a joyful experience to connect with people on an emotional level thanks to music.

Again, I'm giving advice that I have to follow and remind myself as well over and over again.

Take your time! Learn as much as you can, listen to many genres of music and remember that your journey is different from someone else's. Success won't come overnight. page | 06

DANCE MOM? to be or not to be...a mom

That is a question...that SOME dancers will contemplate at a certain point in their lives. I know I did! The decision to become a mother is deeply personal and I know, not the path for everyone. But for x who want to enter mom-dom (adoption, pregnancy, stepmom)...there are lots of questions.

When will you have time or create? rehearse, perform, audition? Do I need to get a 9-to-5? Will I still get hired for jobs?

Who's going to keep the baby? Childcare or not? Homeschooling? So much think about

mom guilt Moms have a lot on their plate, which can make life overwhelming for some...it sure was for me. We deal with mom guilt for even thinking about being away for our kid(s. We often suffer from lack of sleep, juggling a full time job and dealing with body shaming, single motherhood and more. We often have no time for self-care, we can feel alone, and misunderstood .

So how does one magically produce extra hours in the day and energy for artistry?

Something’s gotta give....right?

IYup...and I recommend letting go of the idea of being a "perfect" mom and acknowledging the importance of personal well-being and creative fulfillment can lead to a healthier balance.

by: Michele Byrd-McPhee

yes but...

Well - yes... being a Mom is sometimes hard AF - but that doesn't mean it has to be the end of you being an artist.

As a mom you give so much of yourself but you can also receive so much in return. I gained so much...selflessness, perspective on what really matters, & I discovered new depths for love.

Motherhood offered me new creative inspiration and introduced me to new ways to think about movement.

With some creative strategies & support from loved ones, you can continue to pursue your artistry I think reaching out before you become a mom reach to other mammas who are dancers, DJs, visual artists, etc...and ask if they would share advice about how they balancing their artistry with mommin'. You probably even have in your circle who are doing just that...

REACH OUT, REACH OUT, REACH OUT!

Continue reading at next page >

M O M M O M I N ' tips from our mommas

dj tiff starr 1. Plan weekly activities using a calendar.

2. Prepare essentials the night before.

3. Keep quick snacks on hand.

4. Pack a bag of nonelectronic toys for entertainment.

5. Don't hesitate to ask for help.

dj koaticblaze 1. Familiarize your child with your artistry.

2. Lean on your support system for freedom and less guilt.

3. Make time for yourself and your art.

4. Involve your child in your artistry.

5. Expose your child to other kids in the festivities.

bgirl bonogoroc 1. Accept the things you can't control.

2. Embrace your current capabilities.

3. Prioritize physical and mental health.

4. Share the best version of yourself with your children.

5. Enjoy and grow from every moment, even the challenging ones.

momma network Your mom network can be a source of great support for each other. When you open up about your challenges, other mothers can relate to you and help you find ways to cope.

They understand the joys and struggles that come with parenting and are often willing to share their own experiences. This can provide much-needed comfort during times when you feel overwhelmed or discouraged. Not only that, but they may also have fresh ideas and insights that could help you come up with creative solutions to your problems.

In addition to emotional support, other mothers can provide valuable information on motherhood related topics like safe sleep practices, babyproofing methods and more.

Having access to this kind of knowledge makes life much easier – especially for firsttime parents who may not even know where to begin!

So don't hesitate in reaching out if you ever find yourself feeling isolated or struggling; there are plenty of people out there who are eager to lend an ear or provide support during difficult times. Having a other mom friends invaluable in helping navigate MOMDOM. ...the dance world is filled with inspiring mamas who also are BADASS artists! page | 08

street style FAV KICKS EDITION

by Miyabi Wright

Dance & fashion are two elements in Hip Hop culture that go hand in hand. That is a FACT. Dancers have always set the tone for street fashion all over the world.

No matter what style you represent, every street dancer knows, the kicks gotta be fresh! Some sneakers even became staples for different styles of dances like white Ups for Hip Hop dancers, and Adidas shell toes for breakers. Here, we’ve asked a couple of women of Hip Hop what their favorite sneakers are to dance in, and gathered their top three answers. Let’s take a peek at what dancers are rocking on their feet today, and how the sneakers effect their performance.

#1 Air Jordan 1

#2 NIKE Air Force 1

#3 NIKE Air Max 90

These babies came in first place for being stylish and supportive.

Similar to the AF1 low tops, they break in pretty fast while offering great support to the ankles weather they are mid tops or high tops.

Jordan 1’s are definitely one of the most popular kicks of the millennial / GenZ’s and can turn the simplest fit in to a LEWK! The soft souls allow the sneakers to move with your foot. Never go wrong with Jay’s!

What can you not wear these with? Low top Air Force 1’s are classics that many of us have worn for years. No one will judge you for creasing these so feel free to live your life on the dance floor. The low cut allows you to move the ankles with no restrictions. They mold to fit the shape of your feet overtime so they will fit any foot. These versatile kicks are great for almost any style!

The bubble in the heels of the Air Max 90 acts as great protection for the heels and most importantly, the knees!

The slight incline allows you to stay on the balls of your feet while the in soul adds an extra layer of cushion and hugs the foot. Air Max 90’s are great for someone with an arched foot, and perfect for styles like House that keeps you on the balls of your feet.

Picture dancing on clouds. page | 09

all you do is FOOD MAGZ 2022 win, win , win...

W A A C K I N G PATTI | LA

H O U S E NUTELLAK | NY

H I P - H O P BEATSY | NY

Making HerStory

The ladies brought their A-game to our 2022 LOHH Ladies Battle! With over 100 women competing and an electrifying atmosphere, the judges had a lot of tough decisions to make.The support for these talented ladies was overwhelming, with the audience roaring throughout each performance. It truly was an unforgettable night that no one present will soon forget. A huge round of applause for Beasty, NutellaK , and Patty Miranda – our 2022 LOHH Ladies Battle! champions.

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looking back looking back looking back

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k k c c a k b a c g b n g ba i k in g o lo ok in

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brands we FUBU!

❤️

As women, it's no secret that we can do it all! And when it comes to fashion, female-powered brands are setting the bar. Check out some of our favorite designs from brands we love! So show your support for female entrepreneurs.

TAMICARA DESIGNS

OMEGA FLOW

TaMiCaRa founder & designer, Connie Miles defies all the rules. This 70+ model, designer, entrepreneur creates custom, one of a kind designs that can be worn at any age!

Catch her cuttin up on IG @tamicaradesigns

Created by the talented Bgirl Rascal Randi, this gear is perfect for finding your life on the ground level!

With Omega Flow Floorwork, Randi is building a community-oriented safe space for any & all movers who seek to find comfort on the floor.

While Omega is not exclusive to womxn and LGBTQIA+ family, it stands as a space of integrity for those who identify in these ways to learn and grow.

Omega offers an inclusive space where everyone is welcome to learn, experiment, and find their flow.

But be sure to act fast – these smallbatch designs won’t last long! For exclusive drops keep your eyes peeled to @omegaflowapparel

And...when see something you like, get it, because her designs go quick! tamicaradesigns.square.site If you're looking for an skin care experience, Body Salutations is it! With all natural ingredients and handmade formulations, their products smell simply divine and will leave your skin feeling softer than ever.

BODY SALUTATIONS Handmade by Bgirl Pep C. In between traveling the world & taking breakers OUT, Pep is helping us exfoliant , moisturize & smell YUMMY! #getUsome www.bodysalutations.com page | 14

shernita tells us all...

what to do!

Welcome y’all to the first installment of She Tells Us All...what to do! Imma be using this space to talk about pretty much any & everything that’s on my mind. Y’all know I’m opinionated and I keeps it real. Get into it….

So...I gave up on all this new this and new that stuff long time ago for various reasons…

First of all, people are always acting like the beginning of a new year is the only so called “ fresh start” that we have. When realistically, each and every day that we wake up, we have the opportunity to start anew, we don’t have to wait till January 1st. There are 24 hours in a day, and each minute, and every second within those 24 hours, is a chance for us to begin again. We don’t have to be restricted to certain dates or time frames. Living life on our own timeline is our right.

Second of all, I’ve found that “resolutions” honestly don’t work for most people. We put so much weight and emphasis on them that we end up adding more pressure to our lives.

And on top of that, if we happen to fall off (like most people do), then we end up feeling hella disappointed in ourselves. Who has time for that? Who wants that? Certainly not me.

Lastly, like why all this pressure to either be the same or be different? Like why can’t we just “be”? We really gotta ease up and give ourselves the space and time to just be.

Because honestly and truly, our only real obligation is to honor ourselves in each moment; no matter where that may be or what it looks like. So for 2023 whether you’re a new you, an old you, and in between you, or a you who ain’t sure who “you” is, just know that any of those “you’s”, is totally okay. Trust me on that. I be knowing.

So what y’all think about that? Anything in this resonates with you or nah? Holla at me at shernita@shernitaanderson.com and let me know. And of course, I’ll keep ya name and personal business on the low low nah mean?

Check yall later. Okay? Okay! @ShernitaSoFly www.shernitaanderson.com #ShernitaBe #Shernitatellsusall page | 15

making herstory

vol. 1 festival issue