Nov./Dec.2020
LEGENDS.
LEGENDS PLAYLIST
Available on Apple Music Titled: LEGENDS Curated by: LEGENDS TEAM
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
I remember when I fell in love with music like it was yesterday. I was walking up the stairs of my childhood home when I heard a soulful melody coming from my father’s office. Being a curious child, I followed the sound, stepping along with each beat. I quietly entered my father’s office who was working in the right corner and stood in front of the record player as the record spun continuously. I watched the record and grew full of joy because the rhythm of the song matched the rhythm of my soul. I turned to my father and asked, “Who’s that singing, dad?” and he replied, “That’s Michael Jackson.” “Michael Jackson,” I repeated and glanced back down at the record as though to say hello. The song was his 1987 hit, “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” and in that moment I fell in love and still to this day, I just can’t stop loving you, Michael.
Music has a way of capturing your soul, guiding your steps and changing your heart. It’s always there when you need it like a hug from your best friend or a letter from home. It can uplift you in your happiness or bury you in your sorrow. It all depends on you, the listener, the consumer. During these challenging times with COVID-19, I had to find peace and joy daily and I found it in music. Every night after a long day of working from home, eyes glued to my computer screen, I would part from my duties to enter a world chosen by my selected playlist. For this issue, the Legends team created a musical playlist on Apple Music and also, created a playlist of talented, brilliant people who share the same love and passion for every element of music. Whether they’re singing on the record, dancing on the record, spinning the record, or creating the record, they’re all artists, expressing themselves in a variety of mediums. This is the soundtrack of the millennial generation, created and produced in a legendary way. Lena Hardy Editor in Chief
Brittney Bonner- Creative Director Zoe Ruddock- Beauty Editor LaQuoya Robinson- Lead Graphic Designer
FEEL BETTER . THEBLACKLABELSHOP.COM IG : @THEBLACKLABELSHOP_
ruddthelabel.com
@ruddthelabel
Q R O B I N S O N C R E AT I V E .C O M
Written by Beauty Editor, Zoe Ruddock
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These artists kill it on and off stage; can you guess who’s who?
Created by: Zoe Ruddock
BLACK GOSPEL MATTERS Written by Jerry Smith Remember when, no matter the award show, Black artists were gon’ thank God first and foremost? With the trophy raised, our most influential members of society (read: Legends) humbled themselves in front of the world with pride. It was as if knowing God, and having God know you, was the prerequisite to winning.
From the beginning, Black gospel music has provided us a form of sacred communication. Whether it be a Negro spiritual sung in the fields, a selection from the choir that cracks open the doors of the church for the sinners out on the street, or one of those life changing Lashun Pace-esque solos -- the message always gon’ hit. Yet, it doesn’t seem like we give these artists or their art the same level of recognition, consideration, or the budget of their Black mainstream peers.
In a data driven society, it’s become easier to explain almost anything, but an unexpected pandemic hit the world at the beginning of this year and it became abundantly obvious -nobody had the right answers. Business leaders, celebrities, and our elected officials seemingly ran out of meaningful ideas to inspire and influence the masses. But, in the midst of the storm we can now recognize as “Black Lives Matter, But Not To Coronavirus or Police” I began to notice glimmers of light appear in the form of Black gospel artists logging onto their social media mountaintops to help restore order and optimism in their communities.
I’ve always believed the not so secret thing that sets Black people apart is our reverence for spirituality. Our belief that we don't do any of this alone, no matter how many times we admit to being self-made. The collective acknowledgment that we have no clue how we’ve come this far...but God! And whether it was Kierra Sheard’s morning prayer call(s), Darrell Walls’ Acts Church, Kirk Franklin VERZUZ Fred Hammond, Leandria Johnson singing like Leandria Johnson, or Terrell Grice picking up where Bobby Jones Gospel left off with the new generation -- it was clear that while literally everything was changing around us, the power of good gospel music and our commitment to spirituality was the same. I hear my goal model, Touré, asking “but what makes it good gospel?” and I hope this short answer inspires those of you who are capable to seriously consider my call to action at the end. I’ve given it some thought and there are 3 things that come to mind when I think of what makes Black gospel music.
The Three Answers:
The first quality of good gospel music comes from the strong sense of Conviction. Obviously, faith is a huge part of any spiritual practice, so it’s always beneficial if the people believe in what’s being said and who’s saying it. You might also hear this referred to as “the oil”. Next, it requires Presence. Good gospel fills the room and has the ability to speak to and touch every person individually and all at once. When you hear “the spirit is moving”, that’s presence. Don’t run, just stand in it. And last, but not least, good gospel music will showcase Skill. The best gospel singers are not normal. They are usually wildly talented and intimidating. They sit at the intersection of music theory and God given gift, which typically results in sounds you might only hear once in a lifetime. Not always necessary for success otherwise, but in order for it to be good gospel, it’s important to be impressive. Now, I’m about to get out your way, and while your attention thus far has been a wonderful offering, this is the portion of the service where the collection plate comes back around a second time, and I’d like my Black creatives + creators to give a lil extra. As I mentioned earlier, gospel artists (among so many other brilliant minds) often don't get the recognition, consideration, or budget they deserve for their artistry and I know y’all (myself included) are consuming it. I ask that as you set your goals and intentions for the upcoming year, you leverage the clarity this year has given us and find ways to recognize the artists who have helped you find this better version of yourself, consider opportunities to share your talents with influential community leaders, and if the budget isn’t there, do it for free. Boom, Jerry
*Jerry Smith is an Alabama native, currently living in Washington, D.C., building a career in digital media and advertising space. Personal IG: @jerry_micheal Biz IG: @maadblack
!
DJ DOLLY
JEALENA NATASHA DILLARD
Why did you want to become a DJ?
What does music mean to your life?
I don’t recall a part of my life that I didn’t love
I’ve always used melodies and lyrics to escape
music. Being the only child I would watch music
my hectic environment growing up.
videos all day, listen to the beat first then create
Music flows through me just like blood & it will
mixes off Limewire while hoping & praying I didn’t
always be an inseparable part of my life.
get a virus. I get excited when I talk about music & I’ve always known it would be apart of my journey. However, it wasn’t until I started going to high school & college parties, hearing how the DJs would have so much control over the energy in the room. Also, seeing incredible women like DJ Spinderella & Vashtie helped me realize I could do it too. And if you ask me...after being mostly selftaught, I’m doing the damn thang. How do you dictate the vibe of the crowd at a gig? I dictate the crowd by age & the type of event it is. Typically, I play songs that will keep them moving or that one song you’ve might’ve forgotten but loved. Is there one song you play during every set? If it’s a R&B vibe - "Don’t Walk Away” by Jade or “Outstanding” by The Gap Band. If it’s Hip Hop “Realer” by Megan Thee Stallion
How has COVID-19 interrupted your work? Unfortunately, it has but I’m thankful for the opportunities I do receive.
@iamdjdolly Djdollybookings@gmail.com
Who are you? I pondered the longest over this question because my gut reaction was to answer with “what I do” instead, when at the end of the day I don’t necessarily want my career and accomplishments to define me. Above all else I am a follower of Christ — though I will forever fall short, this is what ultimately guides me and picks me back up when I fall. Having a faith and identity rooted in Christ is hard, especially in today’s world, but it’s what keeps me going. It’s what keeps me passionate, creative and persevering. And because of that, I am also someone who is constantly striving to be a better version of myself.
GINA TOLLESE
Why did you start DJing? I’m originally from Birmingham, AL and when I was in my early 20s and starting to go out a lot more, I just wasn’t hearing what I wanted to hear while out. So I made it my business to change that. I reached out to a favorite local DJ and asked for pointers on how to get started and had a few lessons as well. While I was taking lessons, I also began investing in my own equipment and later started teaching myself from there. Describe your love for music. Where does it come from? My parents definitely had and have a huge influence on my affinity for music as they listened to almost every genre under the sun. My Dad, especially, has always had an extensive collection of music and I recall hearing everything from Snoop Dogg to Red Hot Chili Peppers to Jamiroquai and beyond while I was growing up. Because I was used to hearing so many different types of music as a child, as I got older and developed my own taste in music, it was and always has been very broad and I’ve always enjoyed seeking new types of artists and genres to get into.
@ginatollese
To prepare for a gig, what do you do? The first thing I do is get a feel for the type of event or venue it is so I’ll know which direction to take sonically — this typically involves questions asked of whoever is booking me and/ or doing some research on social media. From there, I’ll put together a crate (typically with several subcrates) with plenty of songs for whatever mood the event or venue could evoke. I also always make sure I’m prepared to play beyond however long my set length is because you just never know! Name your top 5 greatest albums of all time. As much as I wish I could list some “all time” favorites I have to just be honest about the fact that a) my favorites tend to change based on the season of life I’m in and b) since there’s always so much music floating around in my head and memories, it’s legit sometimes hard to remember what my favorites even are. I’m sure you’re familiar with the, “Oh, I used to LOVE that song!” sentiment that sometimes doesn’t come about until you hear whatever it is that jogs your memory. So, here’s what they are for now: 1) good kid, m.A.A.d city - Kendrick Lamar 2) Frank - Amy Winehouse 3) The Low End Theory - A Tribe Called Quest 4) Channel Orange Frank Ocean 5) Bubba - Kaytranada
Wildly Civil | civilcreations.com
When did you fall in love with music? I fell in love with music around the age of 5 or 6. My brother always played Tupac and other rappers. It was our way of bonding and it really calmed me throughout my life. Why did you start DJing? I've always loved music. I grew up playing the piano and always found ways to do sports and activities that involved music. Whether it was cheerleading or learning music therapy, it's been apart of my life. I started working in the club scene and always gravitated towards the DJ to learn about blends or suggest songs that they should play next. I was so nervous to start because I didn't see many women around that time, especially in the South. When I moved to DC and stopped doubting myself, it gave me the courage to go after it and really learn the craft.
DJ CHAN DON
What's been your favorite gig thus far and why? This is a tough one! I don't think I have a favorite. Literally, everyone has brought a totally different energy. I have Dj'd so many diverse crowds, it always amazes me when people are truly letting go and just enjoying the moment.
DONESHIA “DONNIE” ENGLISH Why was it important for you to start the LoudHER Foundation? The entertainment industry is tough. There are so many pressures on you from every aspect. But being a woman in the entertainment industry is even tougher. I wanted to create a community where women who share the same experiences can take time for themselves first, and learn and grow from other women. I truly feel at my best when I'm connecting women or giving them the space to learn how to take care of themselves mentally. LoudHER addresses the needs that are often overlooked. Pick one. Hip Hop or R&B? R&B Phat Farm or Rocawear? Rocawear Kale or Lettuce? Kale me, please Bad Boy Records or Murder, Inc. Records? Bad Boy Records Photography by Adedayo “Dayo” Kosoko
@thearthype
@djchan_don
@loudher_co
…THE RECORD CONTINUED TO SPIN.
SINGER/SONGWRITER, BENJAMIN CARTER LIVES PHYSICALLY IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA AND MUSICALLY LIVES SOMEWHERE BETWEEN ALTERNATIVE R&B AND INDIE POP. HIS NEW SINGLE AND MUSIC VIDEO (DIRECTED BY LEO BUDIRAHARDJO) FOR “BAD HABIT” IS POWERFUL AND RELATABLE. WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE CONCEPT, CARTER EXPLAINED THE SINGLE IS BASED AROUND THAT THING, THAT HABIT, THAT ADDICTION THAT CREEPS UP IN YOUR LIFE. THAT THING THAT ENDS UP HURTING SOME OF YOUR ABILITY TO CONNECT WITH THE CLOSEST RELATIONSHIPS AROUND YOU. IT’S A CRY OUT FOR HELP BUT ALSO A CRY OUT FOR FORGIVENESS, TOO. CONTINUE READING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BENJAMIN CARTER @CARTERBENJAMIN. Describe your love for music. • I’m obsessed with music. Whether it’s writing or listening — I spend the majority of my week listening to music, working to try and discover new sounds and artists that are pioneering new genres etc. I love everything from pop to anti pop to bedroom pop to indie R&B to alternative rock and folk. I grew up with my dad playing and songwriting so it’s always been a part of my life. Why did you title your first EP, Self - Portrait? Self - Portrait was an idea that I had about 3 years ago. I didn’t know quite what I • wanted to write about but was fascinated with the idea of creating music that was so transparent of my life and feelings that it would depict to the listeners basically a visual through a compilation of songs of who I am. My second EP will also be volume 2 of self portrait which will include another compilation of songs hoping to do the same. Being a new father, do you approach creating music differently now? I do and I don’t. I have new content to write about that’s for sure but I don’t think my • approach has changed much. I’m still looking to write transparent enough music using the events and things around me!
pick one.
Harry Potter OR Lord of the Rings? -just watched the HP series and it’s amazing.
East Coast OR West Coast? -I live on the west coast but east coast (DMV) is my home Queen OR The Rolling Stones? -Queen, for sure. Guitar OR Drums? -I definitely play guitar more than drums but if I had a bigger place and didn’t have to worry about neighbors, I’d love to play drums way more
KIMONO PAT
“I just allow myself to have fun, understanding that music is subjective.”
“I like a pretty girl with a dash of ratchetness.” Tell us more about your EP out now. What's the vibe? My EP was a fun project. It was very time consuming, being that I produced, recorded, and mixed it myself. I wanted to experiment with different sounds for the project. I wanted to create some R&B vibes, alternative vibes, soul vibes, hip hop vibes…pick your poison. All of the songs were inspired by true events so I can’t pick a favorite. Name one song that makes you smile and one song that makes you cry and explain why? Not sure if you want me to name one of my songs that makes me smile and cry, or any song. So I'll give you both. My song “Full Effect” makes me smile because it’s about getting over an ex and pretty much improving myself to the point where I don’t regret the breakup. Who doesn't like those kind of stories. I don't have any current released songs that would or have brought me to tears. But ask me that in 2021 and I'll definitely have an answer for you lol. Songs by other artists that make me smile would be “Suppose To Be” by Omarion. I don’t know, there's just something about those first 3 notes that just make my shoulders bounce. The hook was just right. Easy vibe. And Jhene was being ratchet. I like a pretty girl with a dash of ratchetness. I don't think any song alone has brought me to tears, but “Leaves” by Miguel definitely is one to put me in my feels. Probably because I heard it for the first time during a breakup, so yeah… Self Titled EP, Kimono Pat out now! @Kimono_pat
Pick one. Summer or Winter? WINTER Sweet or Spicy? FOOD: SWEET | WOMEN: SPICY Kill Bill: Volume 1 or Kill Bill: Volume 2? KILL BILL 2 Books or Movies? FOR ENTERTAINMENT: MOVIES | FOR EDUCATION: BOOKS
What genre of music do you create? As of now, the genre of music I create would fall into the hiphop/R&B/pop category. I have my seasons of experimenting with other sounds. How do you stay inspired? Experimenting with other sounds is one way I stay inspired. Almost all of the time I approach music production with no expectation. I just allow myself to have fun, understanding that music is subjective. Some will love it and some will hate it. Another way I stay inspired is by surrounding myself and competing with friends. I have a lot of talented friends and we're always motivating each other, not allowing any room for complacency. So whenever I'm being lazy, I say to myself "the homie is putting in work. I can't afford to be wasting time. He might catch up.” What kind of message do you want to convey to the listener? Music is a form of storytelling so the message may change with each song. I think my desire would be to bring the listener into my world. Whether the message is about a romantic relationship, inner conflict, God, family, flexing on folks, the struggles of adulting, depression, heartbreak, etc...I want to bring people in. If you can relate to the message...great! If my music showed you a new perspective...great! If it’s only entertainment for you...great! If you hated it...great! At least you listened.
When did you know you wanted to become a singer/songwriter? I didn't understand the different aspects of music but it wasn't until I was probably early 20s, I considered being a songwriter. It came gradually when I started to collaborate. Songwriting is my strength, but I would never admit to being just that. I am a vocalist who likes to take the stage and entertain. Which genre of music do you prefer? Honestly, I don’t prefer any specific genre. I typically create some unordinary mix of Pop and R&B, but as far as listening, each genre really explains the mood I am in at the time. How do you prepare for a live performance? A live performance is a different beast. Weeks of rehearsal and meditation. I realized when I overthink and get anxious, they don’t tend to go well. Be calm and make sure you and your bandmates are in a comfortable environment. Also, my diet is important. Lots of water. How did you spend your time in quarantine? Did it help or hurt you creatively? Time in quarantine gave me a mixture of feelings. Towards the beginning, I really took advantage of my time but after not leaving my house for a while I saw a lack of inspiration. That also should be a time where discipline should take over, but even discipline can be somewhat counter productive if there is no inspiration. Do you have any new projects in the works? I am always working on projects, but mainly for other people. I currently had an opportunity to be around some of my creative friends and put together an EP in a week. Hoping that comes out very soon.
Pick one. Usher's 8701 album or Confessions album? Poetry or Fiction? Golf or Tennis? Coffee or Tea? @jaredgrimble jaredgrimble@gmail.com
JARED GRIMBLE
…THERE WERE NO MORE LYRICS TO WRITE BUT THE STORY WASN’T OVER.
5, 6, 7, 8… THE ART OF MOVEMENT TASHA B of HEEL TALK What/who inspired your love for dance? How do you approach choreography? My family and friends definitely inspired me so much when it came What inspires the movement? to dance. They were the ones who pushed me to show off my Approaching choreography can be difficult at skills whenever we were together celebrating one another. My times, well for me! Sometimes it flows and sisters and brother and I would be so excited to gather in the living sometimes you are completely stuck on what room and just have a good time together as one, for the love of to do, and don’t let it be a deadline. Talk music and dance. It made everyone just feel good inside and about STRESS! What makes it worse is that, that’s what I loved the most. Of course I was inspired also by all I’m the type of person who pushes my the amazing artists before our time and of our time. Michael choreography out at the last minute! I often Jackson, Janet Jackson, Usher, find myself over it, like Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, why didn’t it come out Prince, J.Lo, Destiny’s Child, yesterday, so I can Beyonce, TLC, Total, Dru Hill... I perfect it! But perfect could go on and on. We watched isn’t ideal, it’s perfect if all the videos on a big screen tv in it’s genuine and feels the living room, blasted the music good to the spirit and and rewinded it as many times as tells a story! My needed to learn the routine and movement can be perform it while singing. It was inspired by a situation like my family’s daily ritual, like I’m going through, been “ok what songs are we doing through, and just today?” And it was back to back, something I have so we would wear ourselves out witnessed. It can be until our mom got home lol, and inspired by an artist and then we would hurry and clean up their music and how the mess, but she knew. She much I love the song or would come home and say, the message behind the “Mmmhmm, y’all had the music song. So even if it’s blasting huh!?” And we would just something I haven’t laugh and deny it. Those were the been through, I try to good times. I’m very much still understand it through inspired by those same things, movement and by and more. My nephew tries to listening to the lyrics Don Harris, hardpressstudio.com compete and out dance me every and the way that the time I go visit the family, and my artist sings it. You can friends and I still dance every time hear if the message is we get together. I’m also inspired by the new generation of expressing hurt, pain, joy, excitement, being dancers and seeing that same hunger that I had being fresh in the fearless or empowered through the lyrics and industry. I’m inspired by my generation from watching everyone’s even the instruments. I’m also inspired to journey then and how it’s unfolded. And, I’m also inspired by the make movement to either move others or by older generation by how gracefully they keep blossoming, adding watching others love. It’s all to give and pour on to who they are overall.
back into one another.
What has been the highlight of your career thus far? The highlight of my career thus far has been mastering myself as not only a performer, but who I am meant to be and that is more than a dancer. I’m at the point where I’m not afraid to step back and reevaluate where I want to go in my personal life and in my career because you have to figure out the balance in order to not neglect one of them. I’m not worried about what’s trending, what everyone is doing, nor comparing myself and for sure only competing with myself. I’ve found purpose is so many other things outside of dance and I embrace it fully. I also love that I’ve been able to pour back into the next generation, and watch their eyes light up when they learn something new and get excited to be a sponge and embark on their journey. That’s one thing that truly gives me joy and seeing others do what they love. So now, I’m taking this next quarter to really pour back into myself and dance and in life as entrepreneur and leader. As far as performing, the highlight of my career was dancing with Beyonce on multiple stages and on TV. The highlights were Lemonade, The Formation Music Video, Super Bowl 50, The Formation World Tour, BET Awards, The Grammys, Coachella (Beychella), and The Homecoming Documentary! It was my ultimate dream to dance with her and I’m truly grateful for every experience that God bless me with while working with her, it was more than a dance job and that’s something I will forever look for and ask for when it comes to dance. I pray for it to always be bigger than me, and for it to touch my spirit in the best ways and for my family and friends to witness the dream happening especially when they have been there supporting me through it all! I’m truly blessed!
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What's the overall vision for Heel Talk? My overall vision for Heel Talk is for it to impact women (men, too) all over the world from all walks of life through various activities, events, movements, dance, writing, speeches... you name it! We are here to touch as many lives as possible in the most positive way, and people are touched and moved in different ways. I want to empower, inspire, and motivate women to embark on their journey in life. To believe they are capable, equipped, and very much deserving to do what they love to do and want to do in life and not think that they HAVE to work a 9-5 or be a sit at home mom! There is so much more to life even if you are doing those things, are you are happy with that? We have so much more to us, and it just takes time to dig that out or to let it free. And sometimes seeing, speaking and being in the presence of other women will help you recognize that and I love it! Recently, I was in the hospital with my mom and when I pulled out my business book, she started talking about how when she got out the hospital she was thinking about starting her owning business in the culinary industry with making some good ol’ southern food plates! It definitely put a smile on my face! It’s been difficult for her to work some of these jobs with her age and condition so I definitely let her know that she should start that and noted that it will be successful! So with Heel Talk, I want to continue to spread that energy and it took me to step outside of dance to see the limitless possibilities that were out there for me! Heel Talk will continue to blossom in many avenues that it was born to go in, because it’s more than one!
KIM GRIGGS
Why do you dance? Dancing is my everything! I know that my purpose in life will be fulfilled through dance. I feel so amazing and free through movement and music. It is very therapeutic. Normally I am an introverted person. However, when the music comes on and I’m on stage I become the total opposite. Dancing makes me feel invincible and gives me confidence. I think it’s super dope how the passion behind movement influences others to feel what you feel. I enjoy making others feel good. When I’m on tour I love to see people in the audience vibe with me. It makes me go even harder! I can honestly say that I have a beautiful and strong stage presence which comes from the love I have for my craft. God created me to dance! How do you prepare for an audition? First off, I pray! Prayer is an essential and God must be involved in everything I do. Another requirement is preparing myself mentally. Believe it or not, I used to have a challenging time with auditions because I would not be in the right mind space. I’d always be thinking, “What if I mess up or forget the choreography?” and that’s exactly what would happen. Thinking apprehensive thoughts led me to be nervous, intimidated and held me back from being my best self. In this industry you can not think that way or the wolves will eat you alive! However, I learned from those experiences. I always prayed before auditioning but I had to start believing in myself more. Nowadays, I fill my mind with nothing but positive thoughts before or during an audition and go in knowing I am the best no matter what. A lot of the times I read what God says about me in the Bible so that I know who I am and stand firm in it. There are so many positive affirmations in the Bible. I had to learn that words as well thoughts are powerful and they shape your reality. When I thought about messing up, I messed up. When I changed my mindset and told myself I would slay no matter what, I slayed and didn’t forget the steps! You just can’t open yourself up to what you don’t want to occur in anyway. Researching the choreographers and dance style of the job is an essential as well. Lastly, working out and training is also a big part of preparation. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready!
When you're freestyling, what are your two go-to moves? My first go to is anything to show off my flexibility and my second would be moves that show versatility in dance styles. Choreographers love when you are well-versed. Name your top 5 essentials while you're on tour. Hair products, makeup, phone charger, tiger balm and extra clothes because you never know! Who do you think is the best dancer to walk on the planet? I’m loving on myself so much right now, so me! Lol! However, I really admire Ashley Everett because she is versatile, a good person, has great stage presence and dances with Beyoncé. I’ve met her twice already through dancing and touring so I’m claiming the next time will be in rehearsals together. Did the last major life decision scare you, excite you, or both? Please explain why. Wow. The last major life decision excited and scared me. Sometimes when life gives you big opportunities it can be scary because you don’t know what to expect. That is where faith in God comes in! I’ve learned that once you get over the fear of the unknown, the very things you were worried about never happens. Faith is also choosing to trust in what you can’t see but its trusting that good will happen! So, nowadays I choose faith over fear. Fear is only a ploy to steal away greatness from your life. However, in my last major life decision I did what God wanted me to do even though I didn’t understand, and everything turned out to be better than I expected! That experience helped me to always choose faith over fear because even though I was excited I was definitely scared as well. Pick one. Red or blue? Red Sister Act 1 or Sister Act 2? Sister Act 2 Denim or leather? I love them both! Day 26 or Danity Kane? Danity Kane, for sure!
@kiim.miguel @kimbellishbykim
…THE STORY IS NEVER OVER BECAUSE THE MUSIC WILL FOREVER LIVE.
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I M O N Y M M S A U R O G M X N O N A
D E NAT
HELLO
SUNDAY
LEGENDS EXCLUSIVE: I had the opportunity of meeting the teenage musical duo Hello Sunday, Myla Finks and Chelsea Glover, on a cloudy Sunday afternoon downtown Atlanta at Agenda Studio on the Goat Farm. Known for being the youngest contestants on season 17 of The Voice, they rose to stardom and won the hearts of America week after week with their rendition of top songs on the billboard charts. The studio was prepped for the music video shoot for their new single “Equal” which was inspired by the powerful year of the Black Lives Matter movement. The single is upbeat but holds an important message. Immediately upon my arrival, I could feel the family atmosphere with the team and crew especially when Hello Sunday was joined with their extras who were all members of the AGI Entertainment family. With lyrics “Cause we are Kings and Queens”, the listener is empowered and self motivated to rise up against any form of oppression to stand on the throne of hope and equality. The new single “Equal” will be included on their upcoming EP due to drop in January 2021. Get to know, Hello Sunday. -Editor, Lena Hardy
MYLA
CHELSEA
How did you meet? Did you get along immediately? We met at a performing arts camp called AGI Entertainment in Marietta, Georgia. We were cool with each other but we saw ourselves as competition more than just friends at first. As the youngest contestants on The Voice, how did you handle the pressure of the show? We relied on our training and faith. We also said to ourselves, “Hey, we’re the youngest so if anyone should feel pressured, it should be the adults.” What's the best advice you received from your Voice coaches? Don’t forget the little things because this business can be very consuming. Describe your love for music. Where does it come from? Our love for music is everything. It is calming and brings happiness. Our love for music was a gift from God. Is there a specific genre of music you love the most? If so, name the genre and explain. We love all genres of music because you have the ability to relate to all of them. Name your top 5 greatest albums of all time. Our top five albums are Thriller Michael Jackson, Thank you Next Ariana Grande, Ungodly Hour Chloe x Halle, 4 Beyoncé and Happiness Begins Jonas Brothers How would you define the word "Legendary" and who's legendary to you? Someone is legendary when they are loved and respected by others and we feel like Beyoncé matches that definition right now. What's the ultimate dream for your music career? The ultimate dream for our music career is to just make it in the industry and spread our gifts across the world and hopefully, touch and inspire someone.
Keep up with these Legends @hellosundaymusic
LEGENDS.