R.A.W Magazine Fall 2016

RAW MUSIC | ART | FASHION | FILM

letter from the editor We’re living in strange times. The masses complain about the music that we make popular. This gives these artists extremely loyal and aggressive cult followings.

Well, I guess it’s only semi aggressive keyboard aggressive at best. There’s still a place in the depths of an over saturated music market where the talented artists we aim to bring to you, flourish. It takes a little effort but if you want it, we’ve got it.

When I first thought about starting R.A.W I really wanted to stay away from artists with deals because in a sense, they got theirs already. I still stand by that. You guys are something special, thank you for being you. It’s been a year and the support we’ve gotten from the beginning is beyond words. I can’t explain enough how dope it is to be able to bring together so many talented people. With that being said I’m going to ask you for something, I just need two things. First, if you’re a supporter of R.A.W, stay with us because things are about to get real. If you’re a creative, don’t ever stop. We need you.

Stay real. Stay righteous. Stay raw.

-Mais

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NORMCORE IS HERE TO STAY

ENT

THE SESSION

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6................................................................Mayzin 10................................................Natalie Oliveri 14.......................................................Ra The MC 16................................................................J Larry 20...............................................Maya Huyana 24......................................................Kiya Lacey 28.................................................Daryn Alexus 32.........................................................Kyle Bent 40.......................................Pierre Jean-Louis 46...........................Free Breakfast Apparel 50..............................Filthy Animal Apparel

the team

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editor in chief mason taylor

editorial assistant jared quick

fashion editor kym estrada

men’s fashion correspondent ej sulapat

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

photographed by: mike spicer

be the plug. www.illmobclothing.com

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

HIP HOP || OAKLAND, CA

Mayzin From socal to the bay area, Mayzin is making waves living this life we call hip hop his own way.

facebook.com/mayzin-mayzin soundcloud.com/immayzin @mayzin

Can you tell us about Apex Collective?

Apex is a collective founded by Danyal and me.

We created Apex to give other artists a platform to release to a bigger audience.

We figured there’s a lot of great producers, rappers and singers out there that still haven’t been discovered by the masses so we created Apex to give others the opportunity to reach a new fan base.

What separates you from other artists?

What separates me from other artists is my versatility and my sound. My goal has always been to create my own style that doesn’t sound like anyone else. I’ve always wanted to be the wave instead of being the one riding it.

How do different environments affect you creatively?

Different environments definitely spark the creative juices for me. The vibe that I get from an environment is extremely important to me cause it definitely reflects the music I’m going to make.

How did the hip hop scene and culture in general in San Diego affect your music?

I grew up living in both Oakland and San Diego between my Mom and my Dad splitting and my brother moving back to Oakland. The HipHop scenes in both places are very different in the aspect of sound and overall hip hop history. San Diego and Oakland have both taught me so much about myself and where I want to take my music. Oakland made me look

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up to a lot of legends like Mac Dre, E-40, Keak Da Sneak, Too Short etc. and it also gave me a real perspective of the “street” life and people really grinding in the game to make something out of nothing. San Diego doesn’t have the big names like those of the bay, but it showed me a community of artists who are on the underground level doing local shows and people making positive music and spreading positive vibes to the hip hop sound.

I’m extremely grateful to have lived in both places and have them both make an impact on my music.

What’s one thing music wise you want to accomplish before the year’s over?

Honestly, I’m not a huge fan of making short term goals. I know where i want to be and I truly believe I have the talent to go anywhere with the music so I think the biggest accomplishment before the year is over is to truly be heard nationwide/worldwide. I want me and Danyal’s album (Where To Next) to really take off even more than it has because there’s so many people that haven’t gotten the chance to really sit down and appreciate it.

How did your “Where To Next” project with Danyal come about?

Where To Next came about after I dropped my 2nd project (Something I Wanted).

Danyal produced 5 out of the 13 songs and we both had people hitting us up, telling us how great all of the songs were. We realized that with his producing and my voice we could make something extremely dope so we decided to make it happen. Then boom, once people got their hands on the singles “Wassup”, “Proud of Me”, “Great” it was a wrap and we delivered an album that i think is a bit overlooked now but people will hopefully go back realize how good of a duo we are and how well put together WTN is.

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If you only had one word to describe your sound, what would it be and why?

One word to describe my sound is progressive. With the way hip hop is nowadays, I feel like we’re moving backwards. Somebody always wants to sound like someone else and with me I’ve always been about creating my own lane. Whether I’m rapping or singing, I feel like I do a great job of staying true to me, telling my story and really expressing the way I feel and that’s what I’m all about. I always want the next record to be bigger and better than the last and for each record to be a completely new experience and message for the listener.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

INDIE R&B || CHICAGO, IL

Natalie Oliveri With such a unique sound and approach when it comes to her music, Natalie Oliveri brings a fresh vibe to the table

facebook.com/natalieoliverimusic soundcloud.com/natalieoliveri @natalieoliveri

How has your sound developed over your career to what it is today?

I kind of went into different phases of genres within Soul music when I recorded my first EP. I called it Eclectic Soul for that very reason.lol.

I EP would go from a Latin pop song to a retro Soul vibe. As a songwriter I always wanted to write different styles of music and challenge myself to trying something new. Right now I’m in a place where I can kind of tap into flavors of all those styles as opposed to separating them. I grew up with sooooooo many different genres of music and love them all. Hip-hop, Colombian, Latin Jazz, Motown, Neo soul etc…..

Studying classical and jazz vocal techniques. I think I’m now in a place in which I found where my voice is most comfortable at and where it fits best. What puts me in the zone musically and where I feel best too. My sound naturally has a breathy/jazzy tone and I love placing my melody vocal lines into syncopated latin and

hiphop rhythms. Being able to add flavors of the ethnic & hip-hop music I grew up listening to, makes it all magical!

Can you tell us a little about your Sweet Harmony project?

Yes! I recorded the majority of Sweet Harmony (Part 1) in London with some amazing musicians and producers. I started collaborating with a guitarist named Sheldon Agwu . We would put some ideas together, brought in some other talented musicians/ producers and started rehearsing & recording the ideas. From there, the songs started to form naturally. I was working with a few other producers at the time, David Lyttle from Lyte Records & Jim Dunloop from Berlin as well as Jim Macrae & Kalm Daan. I decided with all of these amazing tracks I was able to write and sing on, why not make a compilation album out of it & feature these

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talented guys.I always wanted to create a neo soul/Hiphop album and happy to have been able to meet musicians who were on the same page musically while I was living overseas. Grooves that were more so about space, drum beats and jazzy chordal structures. Producer & DJ extraordinaire Freddie Joachim recently remixed one of the tracks “Treasure” which is currently available on bandcamp along with the rest of the album :) .

situations where I can’t pay people what they deserve to be paid and that is an obstacle that hurts because we as artists know how it feels to be put in that position. In conclusion, not having enough money to support the art & pay for the branding and end result. I have been fortunate to work with people who are happy to take part because they believe in the work but yes, we all have those moments

What would you say is the biggest obstacle you’ve faced?

Hmmm…. As an artist the biggest obstacle is the one that I think all creatives face.

Not having the income to support what we love to do. Trying to survive financially while making sure we put enough time into our craft. As the saying goes, “we need money to make money” haha. So the biggest obstacle is, where do we get this money in music…?

Where do we get the money to make the album of our dreams? To be able to pay the engineers, musicians, designers etc.. and show them that their work and time is respected and of value just as ours is. I’ve been in 12

What do you want listeners to get from your music?

I want listeners to feel inspired & encouraged by the words or perhaps get them to a place where they are feeling peaceful and calm with the groove, sounds and melodic harmonies. Make them feel zen and cool when they are having a tough day! To change a persons mood from negative to positive is a powerful thing!

Who’s your dream collaboration with and why?

Can I choose 3 ? ;-p.

1. Producer Collaboration : Pharrell Williams 2.

Artist Collaboration: Corinne Bailey Rae where we have to make certain decisions out of affordability.

Another major obstacle has been trying to survive overseas without the right income. There have been some interesting moments indeed!lol

Give me one word to describe your music.

Transcendental Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

3. Band Collaboration: Hiatus Kaiyote

How do you balance creativity and entertainment with your music?

That’s a good question that I feel can be answered in different ways. We need to be inspired by things in order to

be creative. I feel most creative or inspired when I am out there meeting people. If I go to a great show with amazing musicians and I see they are playing beautifully and enjoying what they are actually doing in that moment, that motivates me to want to create something. It is the same when I’m on stage. I like to connect with the musicians I am working with. It’s like a whole other language.

When the audience is there with us in the musical zone, it’s a beautiful thing.

I think it’s also important to get out and meet people. Stepping away from our creativity so we can let it breathe for a bit. I do think nowadays, it is difficult to put the time into creating when having to deal with all the social media and business aspects as an artist. That is also another balance that current artists are having to deal with.

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HIP HOP || WASHINGTON, D.C The thing about hip hop today is, there’s no middle. You accept it or you don’t. Many people born in the early 90’s or earlier really just don’t like it because of it’s lack of substance that it used to have. With her music, RA The MC bridges the gap between the “Golden Era” and today. Not only is she a song writer but her flows are something serious. You may recognize her as the recipient of an MTV VMA Breakout Artist Nomination.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

RA The MC facebook.com/rathemc soundcloud.com/rathemc @rathemc

We’re slowly starting to see a rise in Female MC’s that can really hold their own without being overly sexual through their content. How do you plan to add to this positive change in the culture?

I plan to just be myself.

As a woman we naturally have sex appeal, I’ve personally never felt the need to use that as a attention grabber. I plan to continue to showcase the traits I believe all women embody.

Strength, courage, emotion, wisdom, maturity, and God.

What was your favorite song growing up? Have you ever sampled it, or used it as inspiration in creating your own music?

My favorite song growing up has to be Puff Daddy “All About the Benjamins” I’ve never sampled it though.

Who is your dream collaboration with?

My dream collab currently is Kanye West. I’ve been a fan of his since day 1. Not only his work but his approach in working with other artist. I’d love to see what him and I could cook up one day.

Do you feel a responsibility as a woman to provide a different perception for women in hip hop?

Not really. I feel a responsibility to create a presence for women in hip-hop but not so much the perception. I think the perception will change over time through the music, content, and consistency of female rappers.

When did you really start to take you music serious?

I started to take music seriously my freshman year of college. Going to school in the NY area I was able to see the music business up close and personal. I was able to perform, learn to network, learn to record, etc. Those experiences gave me standard issue

all the push I needed to make my mind up. I knew right away I would do music forever.

When it comes to making music do you draw a lot from your own life? How important is it to you to tell these stories with an authentic tone?

I absolutely draw directly from my life first and then maybe the experiences of friends or things I’ve seen. Telling my story is therapy for me. As an only child, writing has always been my way of getting my thoughts out when there was no one there to talk to. I guess that carried over into my song writing approach as well.

What can we expect from you in the near future?

You can expect my first commercial album, plenty of visuals, as well as seeing me on the big screen in an upcoming film I was recently selected for.

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J Larry

HIP HOP || PANAMA CITY, FL

J Larry could be conisdered, a rappers rapper.

He’s got the natural flow that glides over the beat.

His wordplay gives you an interesting listening experience. To match those things his beat selection is prime. Gone are they days when you could turn on a song and know exactly where an artist was from. In some ways, that’s a good thing.

When it comes to hip hop, J Larry is no stranger to keeping a track smooth while maintaining a certain level of substance. @officialjlarry @officialjlarry soundcloud.com/j_larry

‘R.O.S.E’ has a lot of different producer credits, how do you go about finding producers to work with?

I go on soundcloud and look through people’s “Following” list and check out every account that say ‘Producer’ it’s not often I find something that fits me and the sound I’m going for because we are in the peak of “Trap Music”, However, when I do find someone dope I immediately inbox them with my latest work and hope to build a relationship bigger than “Hey can I buy this beat from you?”.

How does your beat selection reflect your personality?

When it comes to beat selections I only get on beats that inspire me. I never force it because then it’s not genuine and that’s my whole premise with my music I want everything to be real and heartfelt. I want people to feel like they actually know me and can relate to me after hearing a song of mine. That goes for all beats from upbeat braggadocious, to storytelling, to deep and introspective I have to be inspired by the beat.

Which artist would you say has influenced you the most up to this point?

Jermaine Cole hands down. That should be obvious to anyone that knows me and anyone who’s heard my music because many compare me to him or say I’m trying to be like him (which is not the case by the way). He’s just a big influence and last year when I first started rapping people were telling me we have the same delivery and flow which is something I try to consciously break away from so people don’t compare us my whole career but that’s just naturally how I rap.

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With your collaborations, you have a pretty consistent flow of who they are.

Are you in a collective or do you all just work well together?

The people you typically see me doing music with (Mayzin and Ben Bizzy) those are just good friends I started out doing music with.

Plus they always come through with quality verses/hooks and they are better than 90% of artist I hear anyway.

How do you channel your creative energy to create songs that deal with things going on in society?

I write… A LOT! Anytime I get an idea or someone says something that sparks a creative thought I just write it down and when I go to create a song I revisit those broken thoughts and typically the beat inspires me the rest of the way. As far as society goes I observe everything, but being an artist I feel like I have to be aware of what’s going on because I’m responsible for the content and I don’t want to be the guy who is talking about something he really knows nothing about.

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What’s one thing about your personality that your music doesn’t show?

How funny I am. Most of my songs are typically stories or something that is supposed to make you feel something, but not much of my funny side is ever expressed in my craft.

But now that I just become aware of that I’m going to try to implement more of that into my music in some way shape or form.

Any upcoming projects you have on deck I’m in the earlier stages of putting together another mixtape, and this one I’m hoping will reach the masses.

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

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R&B || RIVERSIDE, CA

Maya Huyana @moneymyyy @realmayahuyana soundcloud.com/mayahuyana

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

photography by: Risasi Henning @immaculate_photograph

When you listen to Maya’s music you get a soft, airy tone, fused with raw hiphop bars giving you unique listening experience. Her sound blends soulful vocals with a merciless hip-hop bass-line that can take any listener on an adventure into the dynamic sound-waves of southern California.

How do you find balance singing and rapping, how do you use your creativity to bring out different elements of both with your music?

The way I find balance between singing and rapping is to do what feels natural. I might turn on a beat and the drums instantly make me wanna spit, the song makes me feel aggressive or makes me want to rhyme… or I might flip on a beat and it makes me feel melodic, like singing.

Depending on the emotions the music evokes, I know the tone of the track and whether I want to sing or rap, and then I proceed to write from there

How important is to to you for your music to hold a level of substance vs it being just entertainment?

I believe that there are artists and then there are entertainers… The greatest names find a balance of both. Everybody has priorities, whether that’s to be famous, or get a hit record, or make the best album of all time, or whatever your goals may be.

One thing about being a true artist is you always wish to maintain your authenticity. Although it’s crucial to be mindful of the business and entertainment side, one has other reasons that drive besides fame or entertainment. Thus it is very important to me to maintain substance in my music. I would be an abomination to myself if I didn’t, because my primary goal isn’t entertainment, and never has it been.

As music keeps changing, how do you stay true to your message and original in your style?

The ability to adapt is crucial to any artist or business that want’s longevity. I think the trick is to try new stuff, but do you. You can’t be afraid to be yourself, but you can’t be afraid to experiment.

That’s why knowing yourself is an important factor to staying true. You’ll be able to adapt but maintain individuality.

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What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given about music and the business so far? *Ironically enough* Big KRIT once told me “stay true to yourself. Lead the pack and never follow”

How does your day to day life blend in with your music?

I’d like to say they’re one in the same. I talk about my life and the stuff I go thru in my music. I like to story tell and give expressions from the people and the environments around me. My sound is pretty much west coast/vibe music, and that’s what my life is-I’m a California girl with a chill ass vibe, with a gang of stories to share.

“Energy” is the ushering in of a new one.

What are you working on right now?

Keep an eye out on my Soundcloud, I’m working on music everyday and there will be a good amount of random drops on there. Right now I am getting ready to release the “Energy” project and I’m super excited because of the visuals behind it. I’m also collaborating on a couple different projects, one with Mat Randol, and another with a super dope producer name Brian Folk. Lastly I’m working on my first official album, which will will be dropping in the winter.

Can you tell us a little about your project “Love, Maya”?

“Love, Maya” is the first project I ever did. Once Phife passed I knew I wanted it to have an east coast grit to it. Yet I still am always gonna be Westcoast, such songs as the Kendrick remix, and my song Westcoast Euphoria, which talks about the glamorized hollywood lifestyle. I knew I wanted to make sure to spit a good amount. My producer GoldDigga caught those easty vibes perfectly for me.

I also wanted no features lol. It was an exact expression of my life at the moment, and it felt good to create something and finish it by myself. Once I did “Love, Maya” I knew I belonged in this world. “Love, Maya” doesn’t mean literally the command “love Maya,” it signifies the end of a letter. That letter being a farewell to my old life, before music. “Love, Maya” was titled that as a goodbye to the old life, and my next solo project 22

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

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R&B || NASHVILLE, TN

Kiya Lacey Alternative Trap. Future R&B. These genres are where Nashville’s own, Kiya Lacey thrives. It’s hard to really lock her in on one specific genre though, because you’ll hear elements of so many different styles when you listen to her music. Her creativity is really what sets her apart from other singers.

She’s got a sound that’s calming, just not in the put you to sleep sense. More like, genuinely smooth music that makes you want to keep listening to it. @kiyalacey facebook.com/kiya.lacey @kiyalacey soundcloud.com/kiyalaceymusic

What are the keys to your version of success?

-dedication ( I am focused on completing my

goals and ultimately making my dreams my reality. I really like to plan and execute my vision)

-communication (remain honest, keep your team informed, ask and you shall receive, network, negotiate)

What new music are you into right now?

Who’s in your recently played artists on Spotify?

Anderson Paak Majid Jordan Travis Scott Jeffrey (young thug) Sampha Kelela Madeintyo

What is your favorite thing to do outside of music that influences your creativity?

Travel. I write a lot about my experiences and observations of those around me.

What would the perfect day for you look like?

My silk robe, sage burning, recording new music, and crab legs +shrimp for lunch :).

Everyday is a blessing and another opportunity to move closer to my dream. After a bad wreck in 2015 I am thankful for every day even if it doesn’t go my way.

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How do you feel about where music is at, and how do you want your music to influence the way it moves forward?

Music is forever growing and changing.

Many believe no one makes real music anymore, when that’s not true it’s just not as popular. Music has become influenced by our culture and vice versa the dynamic is really interesting. Technological advances have both hurt and helped many careers within the industry. Everything is about access. I think it is amazing how I can post a track online and instantly anyone can access it. I want my music and brand to be a household name. I want to experiment with all styles and encourage others to not let anyone restrict their possibilities.

What are you working on right now?

I’m working on my second ep and a short film to accompany it. I’m really excited about this project it has been hard work but I am dedicated to making it happen independently.

What do you want to do more of creatively?

I really want to tour and have a dope stage lighting and production team. I’m really into

making my shows more than a performance but an experience.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

Daryn Alexus facebook.com/darynalexus darynalexus.com @darynalexus

Daryn Alexus, a Washington, DC native now living in Chicago, has spent much of her life on the stage. Be it in theater productions, choral performances, or musicals, she was consistently involved in the arts. Using the last four years to focus solely on music and writing original material, Daryn bridges the gap between her love for Disco, Rock N Roll, Soul, RnB, and Pop music. With iconic inspirations like Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Beyoncé, and Lauren Hill {to name a few}, Daryn has managed to find her very own eclectic, fresh, and nostalgic sound in which she would describe as vintage.

How has your environment helped in influencing your sound?

Living in Chicago, and being around the many creatives I’ve met here have definitely pushed me and influenced me creatively. Seeing the talent that’s consistently coming out of Chicago, it doesn’t stop at Chance, or anyone else, there are so many talented youth here, and in my opinion, we feed off of one another and inspire one another. There is a culture of “Be Great” that is felt and everyone making music or doing anything creatively feels that energy and challenges themselves to step up to the plate! Personally, I’m challenged to embrace my difference and continue authenticating to my sound to that which is uniquely Daryn Alexus.

A lot of your songs are layered uniquely from the instrumentation to the vocal arrangements, what does your recording process look like?

I stack a lot! I first record the main line, and as the song develops and I ask myself, what can I do to make this more interesting. That often leads to a lot of backing and harmony.

The reason I love it the most is because, when I first began recording in 2012, I couldn’t do any of those kinds of things.

I just couldn’t hear it. I had to have someone come in and say try this, try that. Now that I have developed the skill to do it on my own, it’s like my new obsession. I love backing and harmony more than the mainline sometimes. It just really drives the song and creates a dope energy. standard issue

I can hear late 60’s early 70’s rock inspiration in your music, especially from your ‘The Wildflower Series’ project.

Who did you grow up listening to?

Tina Turner is a HUGE inspiration for me, as well as Prince and James Brown. I feel like these artist really helped pioneer the black rock star while still giving soul and funk, and RNB. Their versatile abilities in music really inspire me in my own creative process.

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Your music taste, like most people, has probably broadened as you’ve grown.

Do you see a similar thing happening with your music (as far as your writing style, beat selection etc.) as you continue in your career?

Definitely 100% yes! I’m all about pushing myself. I hate making the same songs over and over again. I love being able to bend genres and create my own thing. Or write and create based on how I’m feeling in that moment.

Sometimes I’m feeling really sexy and smooth and I want to make a RNB record, or sometimes I’m feeling real badass and I want to rock out over a heavy electric guitar solo. I like so many different kinds of music, I’d hate to be trapped in any one specific sound.

Who around you has had the strongest impact on you creatively?

My producer Dee Lilly. We’ve worked together and have grown together in our music in really amazing ways.

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?

Definitely theater. I have a passion for acting as well as music. As a child I was always in a musical somewhere.

Your Album ‘Green’ was very R&B inspired. From the different harmonies to the beat selection. You’ve also shown a completely different vibe on ‘The Wildflower Series’. Which was your favorite to create?

I absolutely love the GREEN project but I also like Wildflower too. I think they both give me the opportunity to express in different ways and satisfy my need to be both rough around the edges, and gritty and yet sexy. They’re both my babies, I can’t play favorite.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

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photographed by: Anthony Grassetti

HIP HOP || RANDOLPH, MASSACHUSETTS

Kyle Bent Born in Jamaica, and hailing from Randolph Massachusetts, the young emcee Kyle Bent could be exactly what Hip Hop needs. You would never guess his age if all you did was listen to his music.

His songs are packed with thought provoking concepts and intricate wordplay. Don’t get it twisted though, this is no school lesson. He backs up his lyrical abilities with hard hitting production.

Atlantic Records newest signee, Joyner Lucas, is bringing Kyle on the Hopsin nationwide Savageville Tour. @iamkylebent facebook.com/kylebentpage @iamkylebent kylebentmusic.com

How do you feel about artists taking stances on social issues. Good thing, or a bad thing, and why?

I think it’s important for artists to take stances on social situations. At the end of the day, music holds some of the most influence in the world, so why wouldn’t artists want to use their power to make a positive difference in the world.

We’re the only ones responsible for our state of living so might as well work towards having a cleaner home.

What’s your opinion on where hip hop is today and how do you want your music to influence it into the future?

I think hip-hop is in one of the most creative states it’s been a long time. These days many things classify as hip-hop, everything from Yatchy to Kendrick and at the end of the day no one can say different except the artist creating the music.

I think creativity is key. A lot of people don’t like certain sounds and that’s okay because there’s different audiences for everyone, but ultimately the state of hip-hop is alive and well. Music is alive and well, and I look forward to adding to the broad palette of music that is already out there.

What’s your beat selection process like, is there one thing about a beat that always sticks out to you?

I love rapping over ambient melodic beats.

Whenever a beat connects with me, it’s instant. I don’t have to think about it. Boom bats are cool too but they’re usually my last pick, even though I tend to sound well over them. Right now, I’m at a stage of my career where I work with producers in-house to make all my beats from scratch so they sound exactly like what I hear in my head. That’s when I sound my best and that’s when I’m most proud of my music.

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How does your day to day life play into your creativity?

I tend to talk about things that happen in my daily life in my music. I like to keep things as authentic as possible when it comes to talking about myself because nothing is worse than denying your own story, or fabricating it for that matter. With that being said, my music is me in an audio file.

If you could say anything to your 15 year old self, what would you say?

If I could send a message back to my 15 year old self, I’d tell him trust your gut always. You know where you want to go better than anyone else. But luckily enough I’m good cause my 15 year old self already knew that.

Who in your life influences you the most when it comes to your music ?

Myself. My personal problems, insights, passions, visions, insecurities and everything else that follows. Not much influence stems from outside my own bubble but I like to think of myself as a very observant and level headed individual so it works out for the best.

What are you working on at the moment?

Blowing up before the year is over. On a major scale. Also making it somewhere on your aux cord play list. The fans will get another album before the year is done and the content will continue to flow like waterfalls.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

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​5 Street Style Babes Putting Normcore (Anti-Fashion) Back On The Map

by Kym Estrada

It’s difficult to define “normcore” as a trend, when the term itself refuses to be seen as such. It is the anti-fashion that’s in fashion if you will.

As explained by the creators of the term, K-Hole, (a New York-based agency), “normcore” has nothing to do with the clothes we wear.

Rather, the way we carry ourselves.

Normcore has allowed today’s hipster to essentially let go of the ego and concern to be “different”, and just run with the pack if it feels right.

Sean Monahan of K-Hole put it better stating, “... people used to be born into communities and were, sort of, thrust into the world and had to find their own individuality. And I think today, people are born individuals and are trying to find their communities.” However, I’d still argue that normcore is in fact a trend, though, difficult to pull off if you don’t own it, aka don’t own, aka basically don’t give a shit about what you wear.

I think this Urban Dictionary definition better explains what I’m trying to say: “It’s being cool through not being cool. It’s an existential statement about value. That everything is

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valueless, and that’s what gives it its value, because we’re only yolo’ing once. So you might as well yolo in comfortable, non-descript clothes that mirror the reality of your both existing and not existing in the flux.”

Ya know?

Many celebs can try their hand in the normcore trend, but if you’re going to be wearing Cartier bracelets and thigh-high boots that look like it took an army of assistants to pull on, I’m not convinced. I got my eye on these girls on the ‘gram rocking the look, attitude and just killin’ the whole dgaf normcore “trend”. Although “normcore” frames itself on blending in the with the pack, these girls stray from it. When we strip down the value of rejection to old notions of counter-culture to join mainstream culture, these women still possess the individuality rooted in the upbringing of the term itself. And isn’t that what normcore essentially is? A contradiction contradicting a contradiction.

We may never fucking know.

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

Emily Oberg || Editorial Producer

Meet your next favorite Instagram obsession.

Emily Oberg first came onto the scene as a Complex News anchor, essentially proving her role as a media chameleon producing/editing a documentary in the streetwear community and hosting a workout series “Get Sweaty”. Her personal style eventually gained a large Instagram following that made for the perfect platform to launch a streetwear magazine (now brand) called “Sporty & Rich.”

The magazine is heavy on aesthetic and a reflection of Emily’s effortless style. She has a cool photo feed flow where she posts three of the same looks from different angles; all unfiltered and unedited. While a pair of Adidas running shorts and a tan cashmere sweater is far from NYFW material, brands like Forever 21 have already copied her style. Call it knocking-off someone’s work, because it is, but in all sense it’s a compliment.

SoSuperSam || DJ

To pull off normcore you got to look like you just woke up and ran out the door, which may be true with Samantha Duenas, aka DJ SoSuperSam. You can basically live in her outfits consisting of comfortable cotton tees and loose-fitting spaghetti strap dresses.

Her personal style, though not consisting of gym shorts and sports tees like Emily, is still

effortless. Though many of Sam’s outfits are laid out in dresses, she styles them with sneakers and tees, making for a comfortable, cool look. Her best looks can be seem on her debut EP Garden. You can literally sleep, shop, brunch, party and DJ in this dress; she most likely does.

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Rowan Blanchard || Actress

Normcore comes with a responsibility to be educated and aware. That’s why you can get away with wearing plain clothing. Because you’re mind, artistry and/or creativity says so much more than what a pair of shoes can say. Fitting that description is Disney channel actress Rowan Blanchard.

showed the 90s-inspired normcore, Rowan’s personal style is more 70s and 80s influenced.

She’s one of the most active celebrity feminist activist actually “activating”. Emily and Sam

Zoe Kravitz || Actress

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Like Rowan, Zoe is another social justice activist using her celebrity platform to bring about awareness to several modern issues.

Zoe Kravitz naturally breathes out “cool”.

She could wear a Juicy Couture velour jumpsuit and still be the coolest person in the room. She possesses a trait many celebs lack: style. Ya, you can have a stylist dress you up, but many times it comes off as too much, too styled and too much effort.

Zoe’s stage fits are simple, and something you’d wear on any ol’ regular day.

Willa Holland || Actress

If you ever wanted to see the most accurate depiction of what normcore style looks like, Willa Holland is the whole package. Instagram posts alone, her poses, face expression, environment, clothes and just exudes normcore. Her selfie captions are always self deprecating, which is always a breath of fresh air especially with celebrity culture.

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VISUAL ART || PHILADELPHIA, PA Pierre is a visual artist who uses his craft to promote self love. Earlier this year he created a series entitled, Black Girl Magic, which featured black women who had afros. The idea behind it was turning their hair into vast landscapes and galaxies. Through this project his hopes were to increase a sense of pride for black women in their African heritages. This is just one way Pierre has used his creativity to create something bigger than art itself.

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Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

Pierre Jean-Louis facebook.com/Pierreartista @ pierre_artista

pierreartista.com

What does being “creative” mean to you?

Being creative to me means painting what I see/ envision that is the beauty of art you can express yourself in any manner you choose.

Are you a collector of anything?

No not really I just grab things/items I like or I may think are interesting

What message are you communicating through your art?

When did you realize that your art was more than just a hobby?

The message I am trying to relay is everyone should be who they are don’t try to paint a different picture for people be yourself.

I would honestly have to say march of this year when my social media( Instagram and Facebook) took a toll for the better that’s is when I started seeing people express to me how my art had made them feel and I just wanted to continue to give people that feeling of joy.

Is there a medium you want to use that you haven’t yet?

Honestly not really I pretty much just stay with oil or acrylic paint it allows me to express my style of art the best

Where is your favorite place to see art?

I honestly don’t have a favorite place I see art in everything so honestly wherever I go I always envision things in my head it’s like a nonstop marathon.

What is the most indispensable item you use to create with?

Hmmmm that is a tough one I probably would have to go with my palette due to the fact that I just love to free hand I put so many random colors on my palette and just let my mind roam free

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WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT || LOS ANGELES, CA

The Session In the entertainment industry, knowing where to place your bets when the stakes are high can make or break you. Having the freedom to create and cultivate your dreams as a woman is a luxury for most, but if you play the game to win, the odds may forever be in your favor. We aren’t the traditional type. We come from places where we see no borders, but only the remnants of where the rubber hit the road from those who came before us. We are the ladies of It’s The Session and sharing Views From (Her) Throne is our mission. @itsthesession facebook.com/itsthesession @its_thesession

“MEET THE LADIES ON A MISSION TO ENCOURAGE, UPLIFT, & INSPIRE WOMEN WORLDWIDE...”

Datalia Cartier, Content Producer/Co-Host

After a very successful first season on 1234 World, one of the Top 10 Stations on Dash Radio reaching 100,000+ listeners weekly, we hosted our first empowerment experience event in Hollywood with some of the top female tastemakers and trendsetters in the entertainment. As the event wrapped, we took a moment to reflect on all of the things that made securing our light worth the risk. Here are some of the jewels dropped along the way as we carry our torch into Season 2 of The Session.

Being a super(her)o doesn’t make sleep your kryptonite.” - @_datalia Boss Talk: Make a commitment to yourself and find things that create the balance of rest and readiness. What beats Beach Yoga in Malibu?

Probably a AirBnb Gift Card wrapped in your mat to add excitement to your #passionpassport.

You can’t control what happens to you in life, what you can control is how you react to it. @Miche11eNicole Boss Talk: In life, we all go through many highs and lows. Your reaction to others actions has a lot to do with the outcome of your future; don’t burn bridges. You have to learn not to take things personal. Try to understand the other person’s point of view. Every experience is a lesson, learn from it and keep going!

Michelle Nicole Charles, Executive Producer/Co-Host

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From Left to Right: Montana Efaw, Tayla Parx (Grammy Nominated Singer/Songwriter - Chris Brown, Alicia Keys), Nicole Kirkland (Choreographer for Prince & Cee-lo), and PJ (Singer/ Songwriter - Meek Mill, G-Eazy)

Passion. Purpose. Power, The 3Ps - @Miche11eNicole Boss Talk: Once you share what you are passionate about it falls in place with your purpose in life. Your purpose in life will give you power.

Use your power for good; never abuse your power.

“Life is like a musical, so score your own soundtrack…”

- @_datalia Boss Talk: Understanding the power you possess comes from the choices you make when the unexpected occurs. Just like musicals. You have to visualize the world around you in colors and hues that bring positive light to your life. Your energy equals your inner chi, so hold your head high like it’s your favorite exercise.

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PJ (@justpeej), Recording Artist Gizzle (@imgizzle), and Queen of the Chicago music scene, Dreezy (@dreezydreezy)

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

Choreographer Nicole Kirkland (@nicolekirkland) shows love to familiar faces.

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STREETWEAR || CHICAGO, IL

Free Breakfast Apparel Chicago based streetwear brand, Free Breakfast Apparel, is on a mission to spread a culturally conscious mindset throughout their community and beyond. You can truly feel a raw emotion through their designs inspired by iconic images. This is not your everyday lcal streetwear brand, it’s so much more. A lot of people will start a brand and say “it’s more than a brand.” In this case, that couldn’t be anymore true. This is a brand that has large scale goals of job creation, community outreach, and charitable @fbfcapparel facebook.com/freebreakfastapparel @fbfcapparel freebreakfastapparel.com

How did Free Breakfast Apparel come to be and how did you come up with the name for the brand?

I had recently been fired from Chase Bank for being a rabble rouser. They got me on a technicality, but it was easy for them to pull the trigger since I had been raising hell around the office about their discriminatory hiring/firing practices. One day in the months that followed, I watched KRS-One talk about purpose and passion. Around that time I also happened to stumble upon some YouTube videos that talked about starting a graphic t-shirt business.

That week I decided to marry my love for Black culture and also for fashion and the product was the Free Breakfast Movement.

The name came from my love for the Black Panthers survival programs. You see, people usually associate the Panthers with police shootouts. But what I think of when their name arises, are the free medical clinics they set up.

Or the sickle cell anemia testing that they promoted. Or the Free Breakfast for School Children program. So our name is a symbol for the buried truth. And it is a symbolic and subliminal promotion of freedom and self-sufficiency.

Where is your brand based? How does that affect the style and design choices of your brand?

We are headquartered out of Chicago. Being in one of the biggest cities in the nation gives us first hand access to a number of style influences.

People come here from all over the country and the world to visit, to live, and for special events.

This makes market research so much easier.

On the business side, being in Chicago also helps us connect with raw materials and other vendors.

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How do you hope to add to or make change in your community through your brand?

I happen to hold the belief that we are constantly affected and influenced by everything we take in through any of our 5 senses. That being said, I am confident that when a person looks at any of the apparel we create, they are receiving a message. The messages I encode in our clothing are designed to empower, enlighten, edify, or all three.

The information we pass in our blog entries are also crafted to do the same. So if you peruse our sight and happen to click on our “Khalid Muhammad for President” shirt, you’ll be taken to a product page that doesn’t just talk about the shirt. It also talks about the subject which in this case would be Khalid Muhammad. We included an embedded link to his lecture about the Maafa (the 400 year African Holocaust).

We are out to raise the consciousness and to promote Black empowerment.

What is the main message behind your brand?

The main message is be free, be Black, and be Proud - and do great things for yourself and your community.

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When did you know that clothing was the outlet for you?

To tell the truth, I still am not sure this is the ultimate area where I should be serving in.

But I know that for now, it feels right and great things are coming out of it so I’m going to continue to rock with it!

The brand is heavily influenced by things that need to be talked about in society. How does Free Breakfast Apparel start that conversation?

We start by being unashamed and unafraid to sound off about controversial topics.

Free Breakfast is (in part) about being free to say things that need to be said - even if those things are unpopular or make people uncomfortable. Take for instance what happened to Korryn Gaines. While many people shrink from her memory, we have went the opposite way and have memorialized her with several pieces that celebrate her warrior spirit.

She was denied due process.

She was summarily executed in a police shooting that nearly killed her toddler. So if you are wearing one of our “Fight Like Korryn” pieces, and you cross paths with someone who isn’t familiar with her story, you’ll be able to talk about it with them because you are just a little more knowledgeable about it due to what you read on our site when you bought the piece.

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

What’s next for the brand?

We haven’t really made a push to get into any boutiques so that is on our agenda for the next couple of quarters.

We’ll start local and then launch a nationwide campaign. We are also in the process of hashing out an internship program and we hope to launch that in time for this upcoming summer break.

Confessional

by Justina Duenas

Preacher to the church of my heart.

May we sneak into the booths gracing the right side?

Or perhaps, is this really considered the wrong side?

As these coffin sized boxes hold particles of death lingering from Secret’s breath.

Confessing a feeling.

On my knees, praying.

Begging God to have mercy on my soul.

I have committed the sin of "gluttony." Overindulging in pain and suffering.

I can’t help the addiction I have acquired for chaos.

But it is he, It is he lord.

The lover of my mistakes.

The lover of all things I. It is he lord, Who has come along, And has shifted the universe within me.

Where asteroids once ruled the starlit skies, Calmness now commands attention.

And I will salute to my commander in chief all the days of my earthly life.

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WOMEN’S CLOTHING || RENO, NV

Filthy Animal Apparel These tees feel so good you just might catch yourself wearing one for a week straight. Mix that with the vintage designs Laura Cooper provides, and you’ve got the t shirt your wardrobe is missing. One aspect about FAA that makes it unique is their choice of models. They proudly choose models that represent health and beauty of all types. This is, Filthy Animal Apparel. @filthyanimalapparel facebook.com/filthyanimalapparel filthyanimalapparel.com 50

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

When did you start this brand, and what was the influence behind it?

I started Filthy Animal at the end of June 2016.

The company was started not only to share my own designs with the world, but also to feed my own creativity: I wanted to model professionally and style all of the photoshoots. So far this company has been a dream-come-true in multiple aspects.

How do you plan to stay true to your style and remain relevant in a “trend” based society?

Due to my own style obsessions (and monthly indulgence in Vogue), I have a lot of faith in this brand. Filthy Animal is really an extension of myself, and therefore as my style evolves, so will it.

What fuels your artistic spirit?

I think the question should be, “What doesn’t fuel it?” I’m constantly devouring all of the latest trends through so many forms of media: magazines, film, Pinterest, Instagram. I think it’s impossible not to have a constant flow of inspiration when you’re as fashion-obsessed as I am. I really can’t get enough of it. It also helps that I have so many wonderful people in my life who are also artists of different mediums musicians, painters, photographers. Surrounding myself with fellow creatives has made a huge difference in my life, and really fueled the creation of this brand in the first place.

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How do your surroundings play into your style and the designs you make?

Like I said, Filthy Animal is an extension of myself and my own style, and all of that is definitely influenced by my hometown, Reno, NV. Reno can be a relatively casual city, probably due to its rather small geography. But there are a lot of hidden gems in this city who know how to rock the latest fashions. I find that this city has such a great balance of simplicity, elegance, and fierce style. All in one day I’ll go from business to casual, to dressing up for a night on the town, and in my own personal style a T-shirt can be stretched through all of those settings. I’m such a tomboy, but also like to have an edgy-feminine touch to everything I wear. Whether I’m layering a T-shirt with a blazer for work or rocking it with a leather jacket and heels at night, it’s always appropriate. And in a place like Reno where the weather’s always changing, cool T-shirts are always my go-to.

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What’s the first thought you want someone to have when they put on one of your shirts?

“Damn I look dope!” I want Filthy Animal wearers to feel effortlessly cool -sexy casual. At the end of the day, I want them to feel like themselves.

I want them to feel like they can stand out wherever they may be.

You’ve got a real vintage aesthetic going for your brand, how did you arrive at that feel?

Thank you! I think the vintage/retro feel really just came about because that’s what I’m into.

I’m always in a mentality of nostalgia, I can’t help it. I don’t think I’ll ever perfectly fit into one decade -whether it be with music, movies, or fashion.

The best trends never really go out of style. If you can continue to rock them, then more power to you!

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

Are there any designers that you draw inspiration from?

Oh the list is too long, where does one begin! I can easily list Prada, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Gucci, god the list goes on and on! I’ve also been greatly influenced by more ready-to-wear brands that are killing it, like Free People and The

Lovers and Drifters Club. However, I think my inspiration can be attributed more to specific icons than to any particular brand. No one has inspired me the way Kate Moss has.

From her effortlessness in front of a camera, to her candidity to her personal style, that woman will forever be my muse.

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ens n

a s hio

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The season to layer your wardrobe is officially here and we wanted to bring you a classic and very presentable fit. We start with This Olive fur bomber jacket by EPOQUE over a simple Scoop T-Shirt by Illmob Premium Streetwear.

Distressed Jeans are created by the innovative brand Golden Denim.

We end it with a classic 6� boot by Timberland in a bold colorway that gives you the rugged and well dressed look at the same time.

Real Artists Wanted Fall 2016

by Ej Illmob

This outfit was hand selected to provide the vibe of city life.

With this combination of designer and streetwear peices, you get that relaxed yet styled look. At the same time, you’re able to walk around the city without being too extra. To begin, we start you with Burberry checkered cashmere long sleeve. It’s only right that top it off with the Gray Burberry Trench coat to give you that

classic menswear look. And for the jeans we provide you with the black Dorados by Golden Denim. Last but not the least we finish it off with the Toopah combat boots by Steve Madden.

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by Ej Illmob

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