WWW.NEWPOWERMAGAZINE.COM
TS-CRE X UNDE
EATOR ERCRWN
Introducing the........
MR-16 HD/CD 16-Track Digital Multitracker When inspiration hits, the MR-16 is ready wherever you are.
FEATURES
May 2009
RYAN LESLIE PAGE 14
DAY 26 PAGE 20
MADD HATTA PAGE 30
CHARLIE WILSON PAGE 34
Ryan Leslie
NPM
WHERE READING IS FUNDAMENTAL.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views and opinion of Colom Media Group, LLC, The New Power Magazine, nor any of our advertisers. Colom Media Group, LLC does not claim any responsibility for stories, photographs, interviews, audio, video, nor any other advertising or promotional material sent to us that has been misrepresented; nor any other unsolicited material. The New Power, the diamond fist, and all related logos are trademarks of Colom Media Group, LLC. This publication may not be reproduced in whole nor in part without the written permission of the publisher. Copyright Š 2009, Colom Media Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Editorial, advertising, subscriptions, and reviews: P.O. Box 8465 Columbus, MS 39705.
News You Can Use
Publisher’s Point
Jango Offers Indie Artists Pay For Airplay ........ 18
I AM Music ......
Prince Goes Direct To Fans ........ 18
The publisher talks about his past experiences as an independent artist, and how he earned money when the internet was still in it’s infant stage ....38
ReverbNation Sponsors Free Indie Promo E-Book ........ 19 WaTunes Offers Free Digital Distribution ........ 19
Marketing and Promotion Sell Things That Can’t Be Copied ........... 25
The New Power Chick
Top Music Licensing Sites Companies that help artists place their songs in films, television, commercials, and video games ........... 28
Inka Anica .... 42
Mena Monroe ..... 46
The #1 Spot The Top 10 R&B / Hip-Hop Albums and Top 10 Rap Tracks According To Billboard.Com ........... 44
Independent Cover
Men + Health + Sex ...... 47 Fatty Fish May Cut Prostate Cancer Risk ........... 48 6 Sex Mistakes Men Make .... 51
Women + Health + Sex ...... 53 What Is Moderate Exercise ........... 54 Eat Your Way To A Spicier Sex Life ....... 55
.. . .
Independent Features
23rd Tek .... 62 Conceeded .... 64 Gettyberg ..... 66 Krucial ..... 68 Lil Tony .... 70 Knoc ..........58
i’m lovin’ it
EXTREMELY VOCAL
14
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
HUMAN WORDS: NJAI JOSZOR PHOTO: EVAN ISKOVITZ Interview Courtesy Singersroom.Com For music and media impresario Ryan Leslie, there’s nothing like sharing the gift of music with the world. Especially when that gift has an often personal and human touch that seems to connect with everyone from budding songwriters and producers to those simply going through different stages of a relationship.
ships, are these records directly correlated to your life in recent years?
wants to be number one and she wants time, effort and energy. She wants all the things that represent to her that she’s valuable.
F
Sitting down with us shortly after the release of his debut album, Ryan Leslie shares not only the story behind his debut, including the song Gibberish, but also the fact that he’s human, just like the next man or woman, and lives with no regrets. How does it feel to finally have your album on the shelves and be recognized as not only a producer and songwriter but an actual recording artist?
Ryan Leslie: It feels good for folks to see me in that light. I’ve always been in that realm and that’s actually why I even became a producer so I could make my own records so it feels great. Your debut has a ton of records related to relation-
Where Reading Is Fundamental
Ryan Leslie: Yes. It directly correlates to my life in recent years…100 percent. Women are discussed throughout your album on records like Addiction and I.R.I.N.A. ...if you had to pen a record right now about a woman in your life (past or present) how would you tie in the phrase “Soul of a Woman?”
Ryan Leslie: I think it’s extremely personal when you talk about knowing the soul of a woman. I think it’s actually rare when you get down to the nitty gritty of someone’s soul. You tell what’s going on in someone’s heart by how they act but their soul…I mean... For me, coming from a deeply religious background that’s something that only God can see so I would never represent myself to have the divine power of understanding anyone’s soul, much less the complex makeup of what a woman’s soul might be. If you want to talk about a woman’s heart I could definitely integrate the fact that she wants attention and she wants exclusivity. She
(662) 251-0075
What stands out to you in a woman? Ryan Leslie: Being an artist...Over the years I’ve been able to see beauty in many different ways and many different forms and so really what I look for is an inner beauty that’s exuded from intelligence. She values herself enough to want to explore and want to engage and expand her mind. She (has) to value herself enough to know that she is capable of being independent and pursue her own dream (by) making things happen for herself. She has to value herself enough to walk with her head held high everyday because she knows she has a great moral compass. Basically the characteristics I look for are grace, poise, intelligence and strength. Artistically you’re kind of in your own lane, especially in terms of your video concepts and even swagger; where did your inspiration come from in pulling off the video for Diamond Girl ? (continued pg 16)
www.newpowermagazine.com
15
LESLIE (continued......)
RYAN
Ryan Leslie: That was really inspired by a throwback to the great television performances so I actually rebuilt the stage that James Brown performed on for a television performance he did in 1966.
they feel great when they listen to T-Pain and The-Dream so if they feel great when they listen to that song (“Gibberish”) then I think it’s great. The way that people respond to music is very interesting to me because I’ve read all the reviews and it’s a talking point (comparisons). People are sometimes just as entertained as they are by the reviews as they are with the music. It’s a common practice to compare or categorize but at the end of the day for me I make this music because it inspired me or made me feel a certain way and I really enjoyed it and I want to share it. It’s a gift and what anyone does with that gift, or how they respond to it or how they criticize it, that’s up to them. For me I’ve given the best offering that I could make. I think the T-Pain comparison comes from the fact that...I’m running my voice through a pitch correction software which was widely popularized by TPain.
of those other moments out. I think those moments will continue to fill out and paint the picture of me as a human. We all make mistakes. We got bloopers, funny moments and embarrassing moments. Anything that’s been captured has been captured because it’s me and I’m a human being so I don’t really have a lot of regrets in life.
R Do you feel like you’re setting an example for youth that you don’t have to rock baggy jeans and sing/rap about a Bust It Baby ?
Ryan Leslie: I do everything based on the value system that I was raised on and acquired through my life experiences. If people can take away from that something, then I definitely am honored. I respect that. There’s a track called “Gibberish” that is getting a lot of attention now...tell me about that track...
Ryan Leslie: It’s really about that moment when music is more powerful than words. You may be at a loss for words or you may be struggling with figuring out what to say so you know there’s a melody that you’re hearing or there is music that is being created in the chemistry between you and someone else that’s special to you that can still be captured and I did my best to capture that on a record. Some have already said it seems like a parody of sorts to music from The-Dream and T-Pain; how do you feel about those comparisons?
Having documented success on YouTube, where fans have seen you in the studio doing everything from cutting new tracks to playing over Lil Wayne’s Lollipop .... What is the most embarrassing or ‘oops I shouldn’t have done that’ moment you’ve had on camera ?
On to a lighter question. We’ve got 8 months left in 2009, where do see yourself in December in terms of projects, new releases, etc? Ryan Leslie: We’re already going in to start working on the second album. I’m going in with Mary J. Blige in a couple of days. Been on the phone with 50 Cent on doing some work. Been on the phone with Rick Ross about doing some work. I released a single with Slim (of 112). I got a record coming out with Jim Jones. Had a phone conversation with Chris Brown, and I’m working on a new artist named Krys Ivory. We got a lot of stuff on the horizon. I’m launching Next Selection Pictures and we also got some new ventures with Next Selection New Media where we’ll be providing web and new media technology consultation and marketing. Kind of taking that expertise we gleamed from the successful launch of Cassie’s project and some of the more successful online tactics that we’ve been employing at RyanLeslie.com
Ryan Leslie: There are quite a lot of funny moments that stay in the Next Selection archive. I want people to first and foremost appreciate me as a musi- Should fans expect a lot more Ryan Leslie: The music, when I cian and an artist. Once the from you and Cassie this created it, made me feel great exposure grows I’m sure that year? and the comparisons mean that we’ll begin to start letting some
16
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
Ryan Leslie: Cassie’s sophomore effort has been a labor of love, the last record [was] nearly two and half years ago. I’ve done some work on it and she’s worked with a variable list of who’s who producers including Bryan Michael Cox, Pharrell, The-Dream, Rodney Jerkins, Eric Hudson, Swizz Beatz, Kanye West…to name a few and myself. I’m sure when she’s good and ready, because I’m not rushing her, she’s going to pick the songs which mean the most to her.
THE NEW POWER
As an artist, what message are you trying to send with this debut album and why should people pick it up? Ryan Leslie: I’m not into “let me give you a sales pitch for my album.” At the end of the day ...it’s available. Go to Ryanleslie.com, If you’re not familiar with the music, go listen to it. I made it because I am a musician and music is something I’m very passionate about. If you listen to the music and you like it and it moves you or inspires you or provides the soundtrack that gets you through a good time or a bad time, a new love or lost love, or gets you hyped for the party. Whatever it does, if you find some value in it then I say.. “you know what”...support it because I’m only going to reinvest those proceeds in going and making more. I’m really about getting what I deserve. If you listen to the music and you feel like “this guy doesn’t deserve my ten bucks” there’s many other ways in this recession to spend your ten bucks and I encourage you to do so.
BE SEEN. AND GET EXPOSED.
662.251.0075 www.newpowermagazine.com
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Source: Hypebot.com
Jango Offers Indie Artists Pay For Airplay
P
ayola. Pay-to play. Ugly terms from a different era or a new way to get exposure and monetize internet broadcasting? Jango, a US based music site with 6 million monthly listeners, has decided to find out. For $30 for 1,000 plays, indie artists get airplay to fans of setablished artists of their choice. If a band's fans say they remind them of U2; then that band can now target airplay to U2 fans only. A display ad running alongside encourages listeners to rate the song or become a fan. In addition to targeting by music taste, artists can also target listeners by age, gender and location.
Other airplay packages include $50 for 2,000 plays and $100 for 5,000 plays. "For $50 I got 2,000 airplays on Jango. At the end of the day, I had nearly 400 "likes," over 50 new fans and lots of positive comments, says NYC indie artist Mickey Wax. "I also saw increases in album sales and traffic to my website." Internet broadcasts are not regulated by the FCC in the same way as over the air broadcasters; so what Jango is doing is perfectly legal. But is it right? In a fractured and cluttered media landscape should artist's pay to get played? How will Jango's audience react to the new music by artists they've never heard of.
Prince Goes Direct To Fans
P
rince will once again be selling direct to his fans with a new subscription site lotusflow3r. The current placeholder site went live March 24th according to Newsweek. For $77 fans will get downloads of the new three albums that will be available in as CD's from Target on March 29th, as well as, a robust selection of exclusive videos, behind the scenes action, news and concert info. The new site and Target release are just the latest experiments for an artist who is no stranger to new music business models. Prince hosted one of
18
the first successful fan subscription sites, which he abruptly shut down 3 years ago despite its success when he apparently felt it had run its course. In recent years, he has jumped from one label to another for the distribution of every new album, while always controlling all aspects of each campaign. One notable Prince self-release combined a free CD with each concert ticket and another gave away a copy with each Sunday UK newspaper.
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
ReverbNation Sponsors Free Indie Promo E-Book
O
nline music marketing platform ReverbNation is sponsoring the release of a free, 44-page abridged e-book version of The Indie Band Survival Guide aimed at helping musicia ns use the online tools and techniques available to promote their music. Released late last year by St. Martin's Press, the original Indie Band Survival Guide shows musicians how to record, distribute,
promote, and sell their music without a record label. The e-book contains substantial excerpts from the print book including sections about building a brand and Web presence, managing a mailing list, and connecting with fans. The e-book also includes a bonus chapter penned by the authors, Randy Chertkow and Jason Feehan, that teaches how to best to use ReverbNation’s tools and services, such as ReverbNation’s free mailing list program, FanReach, to win fans.
WaTunes Offers Free Digital Distribution
W
aTunes has announced that it will no longer charge artists for digital distribution to iTunes and other online retailers. The company hopes to generate revenue from ads on a new music social networking site. The fees that digital distributors charge have expereinced aggressive downward pressure in recent months with TuneCore, ReverbNation and others offering indie artists access to major online retailers for a low flat fee. But Watunes' unlimited free model, while potentially game changing, could be hard to sustain particularly in a tough economy.
that enables musicians pay in order to get their music available to their fans. This model enables our customers to distribute music while getting the full benefits of earning all the royalties and maximizing exposure.� says Kevin Rivers, founder and CEO of WaTunes. WaTunes also provides a social music experience that enables the fans to connect and stream music, rate and comment on their favorite albums, meet new friends, and buy music directly from iTunes.
The startup's CEO appears unconcerned. "By becoming the very first company to embrace the absolute digital distribution model, we have eliminated the fee structured aggregation model
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
19
2 Y DA the onscreen band
Forever I
20
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
26
Words: Njai Joszor Courtesy Singersroom.com
Photo Courtesy Bad Boy Entertainment
n A Day
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
21
You guys are out on tour promoting the album “Forever In A Day,” what should fans expect from the stage show this time. How’s the choreography?
doing this and doing that and the last one at night to go to sleep. This time around with hustle like that and grind like that, Will was making sure that we were not going to have a sophomore curse – so thank you Que: I think they’ll be able to see Will! a lot more growth from Day 26. Everything looks different and That’s love right there, so how everything sounds different. long did it take to get through the album? Cool, so those dance classes (seen on Making the Band 4) Brian: We actually didn’t start have paid off and you guys recording until like January 10th are better then? and we finished like February... maybe 20th or something like Que: A lot better. We’ve been that. We recorded over 44 songs. grinding and dancing a lot bet- We were grinding and working. ter. So I would say the stage per- We were playing here and there formance has gotten so much but knocking out two and three better; the fans are going to songs a day at times. We just enjoy it. knew what we needed to do. We’re all very focused guys With album number two despite what you might see on comes that whole sophomore the show and we take our craft curse factor and battle over very serious. the albums sound. Do you think, on “Forever In A Day,” I have to ask about the album you nailed what you were title, is Forever In A Day fighting for (in terms of hit- intended to mean “timeless?” ting the club and experimenting with other sounds) as Brian: We wanted something seen on MTV? that was definitely going to be timeless..... timeless is forever Brian: Before we actually started you know. We feel like the type recording we told ourselves that of music that we do is timeless we’re not even going to think and it’s forever. about a sophomore curse. We just knew we were going to be On Making the Band of about going in and making good course, we see everything music. In my opinion, not to from meetings with Diddy to sound arrogant or conceited, I studio time, when it came feel like we put together a great down to control over this album and honestly I really feel album.... did you guys feel like we owe a whole a lot to Will. more in control of the songs Will would wake up every morn- and direction? ing (to) call and harass producers about sending us tracks. He’d be Brian: We had a good amount of the first one up in the morning control. Willie played a part in
calling and getting tracks from producers and we actually wrote the majority of the album this time around.... I think we wrote every song on the album but two if I’m not mistaken. This is our baby you know. “Forever In A Day” is just who Day26 really is and hopefully the fans are very pleased with that.
2 6
22
What was Diddy’s response to the final product? Brian: Diddy is not like the mean guy that he might come off as on television. We get a chance to see a side of Diddy that the average person doesn’t really get to see. The first time he heard our music was very surprising. That dude like jumped up and started dancing and clapping around like “I’m very proud of guys. You got in there and did what you had to do for a great album.” To hear that from a person like Diddy is like an honor man. The dude is a legend and he’s been doing this forever. To hear that come out of his mouth sealed the deal. Like Day26 is for real in his mind and it’s not just like a gimmick TV show group; it’s for real. Brian and Will, there has been a lot of you two sort of taking the helm on “Forever In A Day”... has the show been accurate in its portrayal or has there been a little editing? Brian: It wasn’t like that, you know like in the studio “Brian and Will..” “Brian and Will”... you know it’s definitely not like that. Actually watching the show, it made me laugh like, wow, it’s really not like that, but through
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
editing they’re sort of able to just move things around to fit the storyline – which is cool. Whatever makes great TV but, we’re definitely not like that. Yeah man. It kind of had it looking like you guys were taking control of everything?
you see it happens and it’s real but the editing can twist up the story. I’m not crazy or on drugs or anything. I just have a strong opinion. I’m a young adult and I’m going to make mistakes. I’ve learned from them and I've grown but, I’m not crazy I’m just growing up on television in front of everybody.
Brian: Yeah just like we were I’ll admit I’ve been watching running things (laughs). MTB4 since day one for the Yeah, Que... how do you feel most part, I believe you said about the show and editing at one point that “Day 26 because due to the last few should stick to the hardcore episodes you’ve been called R&B audience” early in the words like “crazy” and all season.... is there enough of a balance on this album for fans types of things? who really enjoyed songs like Que: You know I laugh at it too “Since You’ve Been Gone?” because you know they don’t show everything. Like you guys Brian: We do have the traditionhave seen on television our al Day26 ballads on this album. show is 100% real so whatever Actually, Ne-Yo penned it...
called “Then There Was You.” We have “Truth Is A Lie,” “Babymaker”... we got “So Good.” We didn’t stray too far away from the Day 26 on the first album, we just took it to another level as far as up tempo tracks. We felt like last time around, on the first album, we missed a huge crowd and that’s the club crowd. Like Will says all the time we’d go in the club and people would say “oh Day 26 is here”, so we wanted to give people something they didn’t have the first time around.
Publisher Colom Media Group, LLC publisher@newpowermagazine.com
Editor-In-Chief Anthony Colom anthony@newpowermagazine.com
Music Editor Todd Young todd@newpowermagazine.com
Art Director Joe Dent joe@newpowermagazine.com
Advertising Director Yvonne Wilson yvonne@newpowermagazine.com
Promotions Director Terri Lebowitz terri@newpowermagazine.com
Web Editor Salena Lopez webmaster@newpowermagazine.com
Contributors James Johnson, Njai Joszor, Singersroom.com, urban-connectionz.com Colom Media Group, LLC P. O. Box 8465 Columbus, MS 39705 (662) 251-0075 www.newpowermagazine.com info@newpowermagazine.com
Sell Things That Can’t Be Copied
MARKETING and PROMOTION
by Kevin Kelly / www.hypebot.com Like it or not, free music is here. But how does a business survive when its primary product is available for free? In a must read post on his Technium blog, "Better Than Free", Kevin Kelly suggests a new way of thinking about free, as well as, a way forward.
these copies are not just cheap, they are free. Our digital communication network has been engineered so that copies flow with as little friction as possible. Indeed, copies flow so freely we could think of the internet as a super-distribution system, where once a copy is introduced it will continue to flow through the network forever, much like electricity in a superconductive wire. We see evidence of this in real life.
copies are super abundant, stuff which can't be copied becomes scarce and valuable.
L
"The internet is a copy machine...Unlike the mass-produced reproductions of the machine age, these copies are not just cheap, they are free.
If reproductions of our best efforts are free, how can we keep going? To put it simply, how does one make money selling free copies? I have an answer. The simplest way I can put it is thus:
When copies are super abundant, they become worthless. When copies are super abundant, stuff which can't be copied becomes scarce and valuable. When copies are free, you need to sell things which can not be copied."
The internet is a copy machine. At its most foundational level, it copies every action, every character, every thought we make while we ride upon it. In order to send a message from one corner of the internet to another, the protocols of communication demand that the whole message be copied along the way several times. IT companies make a lot of money selling equipment that facilitates this ceaseless copying. Every bit of data ever produced on any computer is copied somewhere. The digital economy is thus run on a river of copies. Unlike the mass-produced reproductions of the machine age,
Where Reading Is Fundamental
Once anything that can be copied is brought into contact with internet, it will be copied, and those copies never leave. Even a dog knows you can't erase something once it's flowed on the internet.
This super-distribution system has become the foundation of our economy and wealth. The instant reduplication of data, ideas, and media underpins all the major economic sectors in our economy, particularly those involved with exports -- that is, those industries where the US has a competitive advantage.
Our wealth sits upon a very large device that copies promiscuously and constantly. Yet the previous round of wealth in this economy was built on selling precious copies, so the free flow of free copies tends to undermine the established order. If reproductions of our best efforts are free, how can we keep going? To put it simply, how does one make money selling free copies? I have an answer. The simplest way I can put it is thus: When copies are super abundant, they become worthless. When
(662) 251-0075
When copies are free, you need to sell things which can not be copied. Well, what can't be copied? There are a number of qualities that can't be copied. Consider "trust." Trust cannot be copied. You can't purchase it. Trust must be earned, over time. It cannot be downloaded. Or faked. Or counterfeited (at least for long). If everything else is equal, you'll always prefer to deal with someone you can trust. So trust is an intangible that has increasing value in a copy saturated world. There are a number of other qualities similar to trust that are difficult to copy, and thus become valuable in this network economy. I think the best way to examine them is not from the eye of the producer, manufacturer, or creator, but from the eye of the user. We can start with a simple user question: why would we ever pay for anything that we could get for free? When anyone buys a version of something they could get for free, what are they purchasing? From my study of the network economy I see roughly eight categories of intangible value that we buy when we pay for something that could be free. In a real sense, these are eight things that are better than free. Eight uncopyable values. I call them "generatives." A generative value is a quality or attribute that must be generated, grown, cultivated, nurtured. A generative thing can not be copied, cloned, faked, replicated, counterfeited, or reproduced.
www.newpowermagazine.com
25
Eight Generatives Better Than publishers to reflect your own Free previous reading background. A free movie you buy may be cut Immediacy to reflect the rating you desire (no violence, dirty language Sooner or later you can find a okay). Aspirin is free, but aspirin free copy of whatever you want, tailored to your DNA is very but getting a copy delivered to expensive. As many have noted, your inbox the moment it is personalization requires an released - or even better, pro- ongoing conversation between duced - by its creators is a the creator and consumer, artist generative asset. Many people go and fan, producer and user. It is to movie theaters to see films on deeply generative because it is the opening night, where they iterative and time consuming. will pay a hefty price to see a You can't copy the personalizafilm that later will be available tion that a relationship reprefor free, or almost free, via rental sents. Marketers call that "stickior download. Hardcover books ness" because it means both command a premium for their sides of the relationship are immediacy, disguised as a harder stuck (invested) in this generacover. First in line often com- tive asset, and will be reluctant mands an extra price for the to switch and start over. same good. As a sellable quality, immediacy has many levels, Interpretation including access to beta versions. Fans are brought into the gener- As the old joke goes: software, ative process itself. Beta versions free. The manual, $10,000. But are often de-valued because they it's no joke. A couple of high are incomplete, but they also profile companies, like Red Hat, possess generative qualities that Apache, and others make their can be sold. Immediacy is a rela- living doing exactly that. They tive term, which is why it is gen- provide paid support for free erative. It has to fit with the software. The copy of code, product and the audience. A being mere bits, is free -- and blog has a different sense of becomes valuable to you only time than a movie, or a car. But through the support and guidimmediacy can be found in any ance. I suspect a lot of genetic media. information will go this route. Right now getting your copy of Personalization your DNA is very expensive, but soon it won't be. In fact, soon A generic version of a concert pharmaceutical companies will recording may be free, but if you PAY you to get your genes want a copy that has been sequence. So the copy of your tweaked to sound perfect in sequence will be free, but the your particular living room -- as interpretation of what it means, if it were preformed in your what you can do about it, and room - you may be willing to pay how to use it -- the manual for a lot. The free copy of a book your genes so to speak -- will be can be custom edited by the expensive.
26
Authenticity You might be able to grab a key software application for free, but even if you don't need a manual, you might like to be sure it is bug free, reliable, and warranted. You'll pay for authenticity. There are nearly an infinite number of variations of the Grateful Dead jams around; buying an authentic version from the band itself will ensure you get the one you wanted. Or that it was indeed actually performed by the Dead. Artists have dealt with this problem for a long time. Graphic reproductions such as photographs and lithographs often come with the artist's stamp of authenticity - a signature - to raise the price of the copy. Digital watermarks and other signature technology will not work as copy-protection schemes (copies are super-conducting liquids, remember?) but they can serve up the generative quality of authenticity for those who care. Accessibility Ownership often sucks. You have to keep your things tidy, up-to-date, and in the case of digital material, backed up. And in this mobile world, you have to carry it along with you. Many people, me included, will be happy to have others tend our "possessions" by subscribing to them. We'll pay Acme Digital Warehouse to serve us any musical tune in the world, when and where we want it, as well as any movie, photo (ours or other photographers). Ditto for books and blogs. Acme backs everything up, pays the creators, and
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
and delivers us our desires. We can sip it from our phones, PDAs, laptops, big screens from where-ever. The fact that most of this material will be available free, if we want to tend it, back it up, keep adding to it, and organize it, will be less and less appealing as time goes on. Embodiment At its core the digital copy is without a body. You can take a free copy of a work and throw it on a screen. But perhaps you'd like to see it in hi-res on a huge screen? Maybe in 3D ? PDFs are fine, but sometimes it is delicious to have the same words printed on bright white cottony paper, bound in leather. Feels so good. What about dwelling in your favorite (free) game with 35 others in the same room? There is no end to greater embodiment. Sure, the hi-res of today which may draw ticket holders to a big theater - may migrate to your home theater tomorrow, but there will always be new insanely great display technology that consumers won't have. Laser projection, holographic display, the holodeck itself! And nothing gets embodied as much as music in a live performance, with real bodies. The music is free; the bodily performance expensive. This formula is quickly becoming a common one for not only musicians, but even authors. The book is free; the bodily talk is expensive.
authors and the like with the tokens of their appreciation, because it allows them to connect. But they will only pay if it is very easy to do, a reasonable amount, and they feel certain the money will directly benefit the creators. Radiohead's recent high-profile experiment in letting fans pay them whatever they wished for a free copy is an excellent illustration of the power of patronage. The elusive, intangible connection that flows between appreciative fans and the artist is worth something. In Radiohead's case it was about $5 per download. There are many other examples of the audience paying simply because it feels good. Findability
Where as the previous generative qualities reside within creative digital works, findability is an asset that occurs at a higher level in the aggregate of many works. A zero price does not help direct attention to a work, and in fact may sometimes hinder it. But no matter what its price, a work has no value unless it is seen; unfound masterpieces are worthless. When there are millions of books, millions of songs, millions of films, millions of applications, millions of everything requesting our attention - and most of it free - being found is valuable. The giant aggregators such as Amazon and Netflix make their living in part by helping the audience find Patronage works they love. They bring out the good news of the "long tail" It is my belief that audiences phenomenon, which we all WANT to pay creators. Fans like know, connects niche audiences to reward artists, musicians, with niche productions. But
Where Reading Is Fundamental
www.newpowermagazine.com
sadly, the long tail is only good news for the giant aggregators, and larger mid-level aggregators such as publishers, studios, and labels. The "long tail" is only lukewarm news to creators themselves. But since findability can really only happen at the systems level, creators need aggregators. This is why publishers, studios, and labels (PSL)will never disappear. They are not needed for distribution of the copies (the internet machine does that). Rather the PSL are needed for the distribution of the users' attention back to the works. From an ocean of possibilities the PSL find, nurture and refine the work of creators that they believe fans will connect with. Other intermediates such as critics and reviewers also channel attention. Fans rely on this multi-level apparatus of findability to discover the works of worth out of the zillions produced. There is money to be made (indirectly for the creatives) by finding talent. For many years the paper publication TV Guide made more money than all of the 3 major TV networks it "guided" combined. The magazine guided and pointed viewers to the good stuff on the tube that week. Stuff, it is worth noting, that was free to the viewers. There is little doubt that besides the megaaggregators, in the world of the free many PDLs will make money selling findability -- in addition to the other generative qualities. These eight qualities require a new skill set. Success in the free-copy world is not derived from the skills of distribution since the Great Copy Machine in the sky takes care
(662) 251-0075
27
(Continued from page 27 ) of that. Nor are legal skills surrounding Intellectual Property and Copyright very useful anymore. Nor are the skills of hoarding and scarcity. Rather, these new eight generatives demand an understanding of how abundance breeds a sharing mindset, how generosity is a business model, how vital it has become to cultivate and nurture qualities that can't be replicated with a click of the mouse. In short, the money in this networked economy does not follow the path of the copies. Rather it follows the path of attention, and attention has its own circuits. Careful readers will note one conspicuous absence so far. I have said nothing about advertising. Ads are widely regarded as the solution, almost the ONLY solution, to the paradox of the free. Most of the suggested solutions I've seen for overcoming the free involve some measure of advertising. I think ads are only one of the paths that attention takes, and in the long-run, they will only be part of the new ways money is made selling the free. But that's another story. Beneath the frothy layer of advertising, these eight generatives will supply the value to ubiquitous free copies, and make them worth advertising for. These generatives apply to all digital copies, but also to any kind of copy where the marginal cost of that copy approaches zero. Even material industries are finding that the costs of duplication near zero, so they too will behave like digital copies. Maps just crossed that threshold. Genetics is about to. Gadgets and small appliances (like cell phones) are sliding that way. Pharmaceuticals are already there, but they don't want anyone to know. It costs nothing to make a pill. We pay for Authenticity and Immediacy in drugs. Someday we'll pay for Personalization. Maintaining generatives is a lot harder than duplicating copies in a factory. There is still a lot to learn. A lot to figure out.
28
TOP MUSIC LICENSING SITES 1. Rumblefish - Licensing for television, film, advertisements, websites, videos, games, podcasts, and sonic branding - e.g. your music inside your local Gap. www.rumblefish.com 2. Gamecues - Licensing for the gaming industry. www.gamecues.com 3. YouLicense - Music licensing marketplace - essentially, their system enables artists and those seeking music to conduct business directly with each other. www.youlicense.com 4. Pump Audio - Artists can license their music in television and advertising without giving up any ownership. www.pumpaudio.com 5. BeatPick - Music licensing provider. www.beatpick.com 6. Ricall - Music licensing marketplace, connecting users wanting to license music directly with the relevant copyright owners. www.ricall.com 7. SoundReef - In private beta, this service exchanging music for promotion in television, film, advertising, etc. www.soundreef.com 8. Renommee.net 9. Sentricmusic.com 10. magnatune.com 11. soundlounge.co.uk
These companies are not listed in any particular order.
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
MADD
HATTA ] e v o L n w [ H-To Photo: Paid In
Words: Anthony
ent
Full Entertainm
Colom
His record label, Paid In Full, introduced Houston, Texas to a young Paul Wall and Chamillionaire. Oh.... and he just happens to be one of Houston’s more recognizable radio personalities as well. 30
l The New Power Magazine l
www.newpowermagazine.com
(662) 251-0075
The New Power
31
W What’s happening man ?
Man...... just working man. Always working. I’m just getting off the air. You know, as soon as you get off the air, it’s one meeting after another. Are you still with 97.9 ?
Yeah The Box. I’ve been with them since 1996.
MADD HATTA
I know that you’ve interviewed a lot of people. I understand that you interviewed President Obama while he was running for office.
country....... we’re on top of it. We can be local at the same time. If something’s happening locally, we can deal with those stories as well those on a national level. I like to do something different on our show. We’ll do news every hour on the hour. Some shows think it’s only about the music and entertainment. We do the jokes and the parody songs, too. If there’s a political figure doing something in the neighborhood, we’ll do something on them as well.
was doing something with it. Those guys were just starting to bubble underground. I just came along to take what they were doing underground, above ground, with producers and music. They put together an excellent album called Get Your Mind Correct. It’s a classic in Houston in my opinion. you kinda feel like the godfather to see the albums, awards, videos, and all their achievements still happening for em today. I think we all helped each other a certain period in our lives.
We know that there are a lot celebrities living in and Are you still working your around Houston. When they label ? wanna talk, are you one of the Yeah. I got a chance to speak to first people that reach out to ? You know what ? I put out over him. 30 album under the Paid In Full Absolutely ! I’ve been here for Enertainment banner. I’m not What does that mean to you so long. A lot of our rap stars, doing as musc with it, but it still now, knowing that his elec- we came up around the same survives. Even in this time of tion to the office is an historic time. I was lucky to have a tough economics, it still survives event ? record that had some of the because of the catalog of music guys on it who have gone on to that I put out. There’s still an You know, that’s a good ques- have major success. If I need to audience for those who rememtion. When I have kids one day, get an interview with someone ber that music from the late 90’s I can say that I talked to the who’s about to go to an awards to early 2000. President of the United States. show, I have access to some of You kinda feel like it’s an honor these guys. So it helps. It’s kind What’s your goal in radio, or that he talked to you, and you of interesting to have a personal with your label ? had a personal conversation with relationship with these guys. It’s him. I asked him all kinds of not just some guys who come to Man, I still wake up every mornquestion, and I had access to the station, get interviewed, and ing with a desire to do radio. I him. I probably wouldn’t be able leave. want to be able to reach as many to have that kind of access people as possible. I think it’s today. Paul Wall and Chamillionaire every radio personalities goal to were on your label at one have a syndicated show. I’m For those who aren’t in the time. Talk about that. happy to be able to do what I Houston market and haven’t want with my music. I’m able to had the opportunity to experi- Yeah, they were. They were. release something when I feel ence your morning show, tell Those guys always worked hard. like it. us what it’s like. I had the opportunity to meet thses guys when they were still in We’re like a fine line between high school and junior high. I’ve entertainment, education, and known Paul Wall for a long periwhatever’s happening in the od of time. I had the label and
32
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
CHARLIE WILSON Defying The Odds Words: James Johnson In a day when true musical longevity is a figment of the past, Charlie Wilson has definitely defied the odds. Following a highly successful run with the legendary Gap Band, Wilson embarked on a solo career that would ultimately take him to far greater heights than he could have ever imagined. Throughout the years, he’s discovered the secret to a successful career, and has managed to grow bigger and better in the eyes of millions of music fans. It’s one thing to be in the game forever and still maintain a few fans, but it’s an entirely different ballgame when your fan-base doubles, and triples with every release you offer. With his latest effort; "Uncle Charlie", and the hit single 'There Goes My Baby", Wilson has struck number one on Billboard's R&B chart, as well as number two on Billboard's Pop chart, and rightfully so. It’s like Midnight Star said back in the day: he’s got the midas touch, and everything that he touches turns to gold. We were able to sit down and talk one on one with Charlie about the album, and what fans have in store. But that’s not all that’s on his mind these days. As many know, Wilson is now the spokesperson for the Prostate Cancer Foundation, having become a strong survivor of the often fateful disease. He not only gives us the word on his journey
34
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
with Prostate Cancer, but he also gives us the rundown on his recent mind-numbing trips to Iraq & Kuwait to entertain the troops.
everyone is going to want the best for their project, and you want to be optimistic, but were you expecting to make this kind of an impact with the album?
First man, I want to talk about this great album you got out there.Congratulations are surely in order for your high debut.
feel good music for me and my fans. It’s just a different era, but it’s the same process. The key is to do what you love to do at the pace that you love to do it. Lots of people have been here just as long as I have. As long as it’s fun for me, it’s all good. It can be more agonizing now when you’re trying to put everything together, but you just have to work harder to make it happen.
Charlie Wilson: Everybody wants it. I expected a high debut, but not number one. When we got number two pop album, that was good. We actually could Charlie Wilson: Well, thank you have reached number one with man. that as well if we had more I’m glad you mentioned the product in the stores. We landed fact that so many others have In this day and been here just as age of music, long as you. I how does the see so many success of the people that have album resonate been out there, with you? and they can’t seem to make Charlie Wilson: that impact anyWell, it’s great. It more. It almost definitely took doesn’t matter lots of hard that you’ve been work, and it’s out for so long, important to if you can reach acknowledge that your core audiI have lots of ence anymore. people that help me do what I do. Charlie Wilson: I always have to Man, so many thank my wife, Mahin, who is at the top though, and we’ve people I see have that mentality very instrumental in everything been selling a good amount of that it should all just come to that I do, my management team records. them now. You can’t think like Michael Paran & Jenna that. You got to get up and work Lankford, and my PR team Looking back over your hard, you got to work out, and Karen Lee and Juanita Stephens. career, is it harder for you to stay healthy. A lot of them want The team that we have is great. I make a hit now, considering to talk about how many go far with this music and put the peers you have in the Grammys they got, but the thing countless hours in. I pick out the industry, and compared to is that you can’t use yesterday’s songs that feel good to me. how easy or hard it was before Grammys to make tomorrow’s There was a lot of hard work in with the Gap Band? music. You’ve got to bring all it all, so the album surely you’ve got to the table. deserves to have the high debut Charlie Wilson: Well, it’s easy Otherwise, in the end, the that it has received. when you have fun with what Grammys don’t mean a thing. you’re doing. I’m still having a It seems like a crazy question lot of fun with my music and You have been embraced so to ask because naturally, career. It’s easy for me to make well by so many of today’s
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
35
younger artists, like UGK, Snoop Dogg of course, Justin Timberlake. How is it working with the younger generation? What do you feel like you have to offer then in the line of advice and wisdom?
business. I have more respect for them than ever before. I was there, hearing the shots all night, and it was incredible. Then coming back while they eat or board another plane. To see in their eyes that they might not make it back. They had a ball. One guy said he’s been there for 15 months, and had not had one good day until I came. That made it worth while. We were in a really hot spot.
Charlie Wilson: My thing is, I can stand next to one of them, and you can’t tell the difference in the age. They trust in me, and that’s why I am the go-to-guy. I blaze the hook if that’s what they want, or ad libs, or verses. What did you gain, knowlI’m the guy for that. I won’t out- edge-wise from your trips? date them or their product. Do you feel like you’ve learned anything about the You clearly have a formula as experience for the troops? an artist that continues to work for you. What do you Charlie Wilson: I learned to take attribute your longevity to? life one day at a time. You’re not promised tomorrow. I was there Charlie Wilson: I give all the where one guy did not make it faith to God. He blessed me, back. Cherish every day that you and kept me in the land of the have. They put it on the line for living. I pray hard, and he gives us. me what I ask for. My wife stood by my side. You got to get out How does your process go here and dig. It’s hard work. when you’re ready to hit the Payback comes when you work lab? How do you craft your hard. When it’s that clutch time, songs? you step up to the plate. Charlie Wilson: Just basically, You recently flew to Kuwait finding a vibe or beat. Michael and Iraq for several shows for Paran asked me to do “Baby the troops. How did this Come Back”. We recorded it way come about? before the commercial. We called it “Shorty Come Back”. Charlie Wilson: My manager, We just look for something that you know, he’s got a lot of con- feels good. We basically start tacts. Michael Paran. He digs from there. When I’m with difdeep, and makes sure I’m in the ferent producers, like Harvey right place at the right time. That Mason, or Greg Pagonny, Twas by far the most incredible Pain, there’s always a melody. journey I’ve been on. In Iraq, it We’re always looking and vibing was unbelievable to see how the off of each other. soldiers are and what they do. To look in their eyes and see the For someone like you, it stone pilot. They take care of would seem that you’ve
36
accomplished probably ever goal you’ve set out for, seeing how successful you’ve been over the years. What do you feel like you still have to accomplish? Charlie Wilson: Well, it’s like, to me, I don’t say that I’ve accomplished anything. I’m still accomplishing things as I go. People say I did this and that, and that I may have accomplished whatever, but I am still on that journey in my mind. The end is when it is all over for me. That’s why I’m still here. I may have been platinum, but I’m still on that journey. Having a good time. Moving along from your album, you recently came forward about your experiences as a survivor of prostate cancer. First and foremost, congratulations. Charlie Wilson: Thank you. In a day when so many people that are affected by this disease shy away, or don’t speak out, why was it so important for you to step forward and speak out? Charlie Wilson: I think that is what we shouldn’t do [shun away]. I share my story because every African American man should know about this disease that is silent in our body. Know the history of family. It’s about every other African-American man. One in every three men become affected. Know the history. Get the PSA test. It seemed like when I came out about my ordeal, people the test doesn’t
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
“I share my story because every African-American man should know about this disease that is silent in our body. Know the history of family.” work. Well, I don’t know if Extenz works. But this test saved my life. That I do know. So when they say that, they should get one themselves
think I missed the first one. Tom, he just calls on me. They went out the first year, and from that point on, they knew that it can’t sail without Charlie Wilson.
Again, looking back at your career, what are you most proud of ? Charlie Wilson: Having a family around me who don’t steal money. It extends from the east to west. That’s who I’m proud of. I have a crew of people around me that work as hard as I work. People say oh, I went Charlie Wilson: That cruise, I’ve gold, but who cares. Having that been on it the past 10 years. I family that’s with you, good or Now you’ve got a number of events going on, ranging from the Black Expo and Taste of Chicago to the Cincinnati Jazz Fest, but I think the one that sticks out the most for me is that Tom Joyner Cruise. Are you ready for that man?
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
bad, they work hard with you. That’s what I love. In the 80’s, I thought the people around me were family, but they were far from it. They took it all. I’ve got a real family now. Any final comments? Charlie Wilson: You know, basically, stay away from drugs and alcohol. They slow you down, sometimes to a stop sign. Lots of people don’t come back, or get a second chance. So with that said, keep it straight. If you fall, get up.
www.newpowermagazine.com
37
38
l The New Power Magazine
PUBLISHER’S POINT
I Am music BY
ANTHONY COLOM
www.newpowermagazine.com
39
I
I’ve been in love with music for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my mother and father always had a lot of records in our home. It was mainly a lot of funk and soul singers; like James Brown; Sly and The Family Stone; Earth, Wind, and Fire; Parliament -Funkadelic; Al Green; Aretha Franklin; Kool and The Gang; Curtis Mayfield; The Staple Singers; Con Funk Shun; The Commodores; The Jackson 5; The Temptations; The Isley Brothers; Gladys Knight and The Pips, Johnny Taylor; The Bar-Kays; The Ohio Players, and a host of other artists and groups. My mother was and is a woman who loves to dance. Even when he was in college, and later dental school, my father would hang around the musicians, and would act as a manager for local bands. I guess he just loved music that much. At one point, he even had a record store below my grandfather’s grocery store. Growing up around that, I couldn’t keep from being influenced by that. I use to be that kid with the afro and bellbottoms standing in front of the mirror with a broom in my hand playing the guitar. Or in front of the mirror with a hair brush, comb, or a stick from outside, singing into my microphone. Or on the front porch beating on a 5 gallon bucket, playing my drums. Me, my brother Roland, and our cousin Andre would put our fake band together on our grandmother’s front porch every time it would rain. Andre would sing the same stupid song everytime, but tell us he was making up a new song. It always started off with.... Baby I love you. We were 6, 7, and 9 years old. Andre was the oldest, and Roland, or Jr., as we call him, was the youngest. I think that’s where the love of performing started for me. If you had told me back then that I wasn’t a member of The Jackson 5, I probably would have kicked you. Really ! I was a dancing and singing machine. At the age of 15, I joined a local band in Columbus, Mississippi called Conspiracy. The singer Luther Ingram who sang “If Lovin’ You Is Worng (I Don’t Wanna Be Right) performed in Columbus in 1983. Our band played for him since he didn’t bring any musicians. He later went back to Atlanta and started his own Conspiracy. They would play shows in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, when the club owners would find out that it wasn’t our band, they wouldn’t book them anymore. That’s how sorry the owners said they were. But anyway, I had to put that out there for those people who may have seen them years ago in the Atlanta area, and think we took the name from them. I was the youngest person in the band. At 16, I was on the road doing college shows at the University of Texas, the University of Oklahoma, and a lot of night clubs that I was legally too young to be in. My father, who was a dentist by then, was the bands sponsor, or money man (lol).
40
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
W
We would do shows almost every weekend for 2 years. We managed to record in studios in three different cities, and release a single with airplay at 3 local radio stations. That was huge back then. By 20, I was writing, performing, and recoding my own stuff under the pseudonym The Masquerade. I was a huge Prince fan. People always said my songs sounded like a cross between Prince and The Bar-Kays. We sound like those who’ve influenced us. In 1992 at 24, I released a single called “DoYaLikeUwannaBeDone.” It also included “On My Knees.” Being influenced by Prince’s music, my music was always sexual. I remember being on the streets of Atlanta and meeting a young on-air personality from V103 by the name of Ryan Cameron (lol). He was doing a live remote at a fashion show downtown. He was so impressed with how much the cd sounded like Prince that he took the cd inside and played it for the crowd. He then asked them who they thought it was. Everyone started screaming PRINCE, PRINCE. I was sitting in the crowd. He looked at me laughing, and said, “looks like you gotta hit.” The song did pretty good. I took it from Mississippi, to Atlanta, to Memphis. One program director, who told me he was a fan of my music, said he would call the local mom and pop record store to see how my music was doing. He called me once and said, “Do you know that you’re outselling Michael Jackson and R. Kelly.” That goes to show that when radio believes in independent artists, they can help push those artists along. By 1999 I was uploading my music to a new website called MP3.Com. The site’s owner, Micheal Robertson, was dividing $1,000,000 of his advertising revenue every month among the top downloaded and viewed artists. I just happened to be one of those artists. By now, I was recording under the name Seamore Funk. Google me. My songs have been mistaken, mislabeled, swapped, and shared for 10 years by Prince fans. Some of em know by now that they’re my songs, but they still discuss my tracks on Prince fan sites like Prince.org, Princefam.com, and the no longer functioning Housequake.com. I managed to earn $25,000 from my songs, and songs that I wrote and produced for other artists on MP3.Com. That ain’t bad for an independent cat on the internet. My song, “SexyAsUwannaBe,” managed to stay at #1 or #2 for more than 12 months straight. I would keep at least 10 to 12 songs in the top 40 on the R&B charts. I even held the #1 spot on the dirty south rap charts for a week, with Master P. at #2. That’s when No Limit Records was still a powerhouse. I was even contacted by Rosie Gaines. She was Prince’s Keyboardist. She sang co-lead on “Diamonds and Pearls.” MP3.Com was the sh*t. I can’t lie. I’d love to see that website model come around again. Give money to the artists for helping build your site and company. Over the years, people have been asking me for more music. I’ve tried to stop, but can’t shake it. I guess music is who I Am. I AM MUSIC. Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
41
42
l www.newpowermagazine.com
IIn
a k n a k In nica a c A i n A
www.newpowermagazine.com l
is Inka y name I’m 19 Anica. ld, and years o I have finnish. , Finland lived in y dream s y a lw a tm s avia, bu Skandin e to the State v o in m it to e is mak ay, and deling is some d o M . y ustr " I the ind t thing a th " ly e ra's it y T in f de for. p assion have p erica's Next To I m A . , e m show inspired e s o l, e th d o M like to be wanted girls. to one pho I have d nd a few So far, a , r unways eos shoots, usic vid o m in s o e e m v ca ha als vies. I aand mo in a few mag d e r a appe zines. of the sen one o h c ars a I w nd to p in Finla iss ts s M li a fin the in te geant. ticipa ropic pa T n a ii a Haw
M
-38
34D-25 5''4' 125lbs
/inka89 pace.com om s y .m w ww ail.c @hotm inkakyto
43
THE
#1
R&B / Hip-Hop Albums 6. The - Dream Love V/S Money
1. Rick Ross Deeper Than Rap 2. Day 26 Forever In A Day
7. Prince / Bria Valente Lotus Flow3r/MPLSoUND/Elix3r
3. Jada Kiss The Last Kiss
8. UGK UGK 4 Life
4. Keri Hilson In A Perfect World......
9. Jamie Foxx Iintuition
5. Asher Roth Asleep In The Bread Aisle
10. Charlie Wilson Uncle Charlie
44
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
SPOT Hot Rap Tracks 6. Yung L.A. featuring Young Dro & T.I. Ain’t I
1. T.I. featuring Justin Timberlake Dead And Gone 2. Soulja Boy Tell em featuring Sammie Kiss Me Thru The Phone
7. Flo Rida Right Round
3. Soulja Boy Tell em Turn My Swag On
8. Bow Wow featuring Johnta Austin You Can Get It All
4. Blackeyed Peas Boom Boom Pow
9. Pitbull I Know You Want Me
5.. Rick Ross Magnificent
10. Flo Rida featuring Wynter Sugar
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
45
Age: 22 Hometown: Detroit, MI Measurements: 36DD-25-40 Weight: 130 lbs Height: 5'4 Eyes: Dr. Brown Hair: Black www.myspace.com/menamonroe www.modelmayhem.com/MenaMonroe
MENA MENA MONROE MONROE
46
l www.newpowermagazine.com
Men + Health+Sex
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
47
MEN
&
HEALTH
Fatty Fish May Cut Prostate Cancer Risk Study Shows Eating Fish High in Omega-3s Reduces Risk of Aggressive Prostate Cancer By Salynn Boyles / Source: webmd.com / Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD
48 l
The New Power Magazine www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
Men who eat salmon and other fish high in omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis have a decreased risk for developing advanced prostate cancer, new research suggests. The association was most pronounced among men believed to have a genetic predisposition for developing aggressive prostate cancer. Men in the study who ate one or more servings of fatty fish a week were found to have a 63% lower risk for developing aggressive prostate cancer than men who reported never eating fish, study co-researcher John S. Witte, PhD, tells WebMD. The study is not the first to find that men who eat fatty fish have a lower risk for the most deadly forms of prostate cancer. But Witte says clinical trials are needed to show that eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids actually lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer. The study appears in the April issue of Clinical Cancer Research. "There is a lot of evidence that omega-3 fatty acids protect against heart disease and other diseases by targeting inflammation -- and that may be what is
Where Reading Is Fundamental
going on here," Witte says. Omega-3 and Prostate Cancer
were five times more likely to develop advanced prostate cancer.
The study by Witte and col- But men with the highest intake leagues from the University of of omega-3 fatty acids -- equivaCalifornia, San Francisco, lent to one or more servings of fatty fish a week -- had a significantly reduced risk for advanced disease, even when they carried the Cox-2 variant. "The increase in risk associated with having the Cox-2 variant was essentially reversed in men who ate fish one or more times a week," Witte says. Clinical Trials Needed
SALMON
Omega-3 researcher Jorge Chavarro, PhD, of Harvard Medical School tells WebMD that the findings are consistent with his own studies of omega-3 and prostate cancer.
included 466 men with aggressive prostate cancer and 478 In a 2007 study, Chavarro and men without the cancer. colleagues with the Harvard School of Public Health reportThe men were asked to fill out ed a 41% reduction in prostate food-frequency questionnaires. cancer risk among men who ate Genetic analysis was also per- higher levels of omega-3s than formed to identify variants of men with the lowest intake. the Cox-2 gene, which helps regulate inflammation within the In separate studies, the Harvard body. A certain variant of this team found that men who ate gene is also known to increase fatty fish before being diagnosed the chance of developing with prostate cancer and after prostate cancer. their diagnosis were less likely to die of the disease. The analysis revealed that men who ate little to no fatty fish and ( Continued on page 54........ ) had a specific Cox-2 variant
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
49
Chavarro's research also suggests that omega-3 is particularly protective against the most aggressive prostate cancers. He tells WebMD that this supports the growing belief that prostate cancer is a more complex disease than previously thought. "We call everything prostate cancer, but clinically aggressive cancers and more localized, benign cancers may be two very different diseases," he says. "In the past we have studied overall disease. But it may be that the effects of fish and other anti-inflammatory interventions, like Cox-2-targeting drugs, affect only aggressive disease."
Roswell Park Cancer Institute President and professor of oncology Donald Trump, MD, tells WebMD that there is enough evidence suggesting a protective role for omega-3 against prostate cancer to justify a large trial studying whether eating a diet rich in omega-3s -- or even taking omega-3 supplements - can actually lower risk of prostate cancer. "This is a very nicely done study, but we definitely need a clinical trial," he says. "These results suggest that we may be able to identify men who will be most likely to benefit and least likely to benefit from this intervention." Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids include: Halibut Herring Mackerel Oysters Salmon Sardines Trout Tuna
50
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
MEN
&
SEX
6 Sex Mistakes Men Make By Martin F. Downs / Source: webmd.com Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD Hey guys, think you know everything there is to know about having sex with women? That erotic encyclopedia you carry around in your head may contain a lot of basic errors and omissions about women's sexuality -- errors that can lead to sex mistakes.
Paget is author of The Great Lover Playbook and other sex manuals, and she gives seminars nationwide. Sex Mistake No. 1: You Know What She Wants Men often make assumptions about what a woman wants based upon what they've done
That's because -- after learning the facts of life -- most of us are left to figure out sex for ourselves. Guys tend to take a lot of cues from adult movies, and we all know how true-to-life those are. Experience may help, but many women can be shy when talking about what they like.
That applies not only to sexual predilections, but also to relationships, she says. "There are women who can have nostrings-attached sex, and women who can get attached very easily, and then everyone in between." Sex Mistake No. 2: You Have All She Needs Some women can't have an orgasm with less than 3,000 rpm. No human tongue or fingers can generate that kind of vibration. But men typically think something is wrong if a woman needs a vibrator.
To help us with some sex tips, WebMD asked two acclaimed sex educators, Tristan Taormino and Lou Paget, to tell us what they think are the most common sex mistakes men make with women.
with other women. But women aren't all the same.
Taormino is a prolific author, lecturer, and video producer. Her latest project is the Expert Guide educational video series from Vivid Ed.
"You develop a repertoire as you mature sexually, but you should never assume that what worked for the last person is going to work for this person,"
Where Reading Is Fundamental
Taormino says.
"If the only way that a woman can achieve orgasm is with a vibrator, she's not broken," Taormino says.
(662) 251-0075
Think of a vibrator as your assistant, not your substitute. Many couples use vibrators together. "While you're doing one thing, or two things, the vibrator can be doing something else," Taormino says. (Continued on page 52......)
www.newpowermagazine.com
51
Sex Mistake No. 3: Sex Feels Joy of Sex got Americans hip the Same for Men and Women to the orgasmic importance of the clitoris. But the belief that Paget says there tends to be a women must be able to orgasm "huge disconnect" between men from vaginal penetration stuband women in the ways that sex bornly persists. feels good. "I still get letters from people "When a man has intercourse who say things like, my wife with a woman, and his penis can't [orgasm] from intercourse goes into her body, that sensa- unless she has clitoral stimulation is so off the charts for most tion -- please help," Taormino men, they cannot imagine that it says. "I want to write back and isn't feeling the same way for say, 'OK, what's the problem?'" her," Paget says. "It couldn't be "For the majority of women, further from the truth." it's not going to happen that way," Paget says. The inside of the vagina is probably less sensitive than the outer Men also lack information parts for most women. Also, about how to touch it and how deep thrusting may not feel so sensitive it is, Taormino says. nice on the receiving end. If the penis is too long, "it feels like A touch that's bliss for one you're getting punched in the woman may feel like nothing stomach," Paget says. "It makes special, or may even be painful you feel nauseous." for someone else. Some prefer Sex Mistake No. 4: You Know Your Way Around a Woman's Anatomy Most guys know generally what a clitoris is and where to find it. That's not to say that they really understand it. More than 30 years ago, at the start of the "sexual revolution," a best-selling book called the
52
Sex Mistake No. 5: Wet = Turned On Guys sometimes get hung up if a woman doesn't get slippery enough for easy penetration. Don't worry about it. "I think there's a myth that if you're turned on, you're wet," Taormino says. Not necessarily. Some women tend to get wetter than others, and how much natural lubrication a woman has can change from day to day. It varies by the phase of her menstrual cycle, and it's subject to influences like stress and medications. Sex Mistake No. 6: Silence Is Golden A lot of guys think they should be silent during sex, but unless you speak up, your partner has to guess what's doing it for you and what isn't. If you're respectful about it, a woman who wants to please you will probably appreciate some directions.
indirect stimulation. How can you find out how she likes to be touched? Try asking her.
"I'm not saying push her head in your lap," Taormino says. "I think that, 'this is how I like it,' is a very useful conversation to have."
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
Women+ Health+Sex Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
53
WOMEN & HEALTH
WHAT IS MODERATE EXERCISE ? Recommended Moderate Exercise Equals About 100 Steps Per Minute By Jennifer Warner / Source: webmd.com / Reviewed by Elizabeth Klodas, MD, FACC What exactly is moderate exercise? A new study suggests the much-touted moderate-intensity walk should translate to about 100 steps per minute, or 3,000 steps in 30 minutes. Federal exercise recommendations call for Americans to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise for optimal health. And some studies have suggested that moderate-intensity exercise -- like walking -- may be just as beneficial as more vigorous exercise.
Measuring Moderate Exercise
the participants also wore pedometers during the exercise Although pedometers are widely sessions. used to measure physical activity by counting the number of steps The results showed that for men a person takes, they can’t meas- the number of steps per minute ure exercise intensity. to reach moderate-intensity exercise was between 92 and In the lab, exercise intensity is 102. For women, the range was commonly determined by meas- between 91 and 115 steps per uring the amount of oxygen minute. taken in by the body during exer"We believe that these data support a general recommendation of walking at more than 100 steps per minute on level terrain to meet the minimum of the moderate-intensity guideline,” researcher Simon J. Marshall, PhD, of the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University, says in a news release.
“This presents a challenge because health benefits are dependent on the intensity of activity, yet there are few valid and reliable monitoring tools available to the public that are affordable and cise, known as oxygen uptake. easy to use,” researchers write in the American Journal of To see how many steps per Preventive Medicine. minute were needed to achieve moderate-intensity exercise, In their study, researchers investigators monitored oxygen sought to translate the moder- uptake in 58 women and 39 men ate-exercise recommendations while they completed four difinto easily achievable targets that ferent 6-minute sessions on the could be measured using a com- treadmill at speeds ranging from mon pedometer. 2.4 to 4.1 miles per hour. All of
54
“Because health benefits can be achieved with bouts of exercise lasting at least 10 minutes, a useful starting point is to try and accumulate 1,000 steps in 10 minutes, before building up to 3,000 steps in 30 minutes,” he says. “Individuals can monitor their progress using a simple pedometer and a wristwatch.”
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
WOMEN & SEX
F
EAT YOUR WAY TO A SPICIER SEX LIFE Aphrodisiacs Make Better Flirts and Lovers By Jennifer Warner / Source: Webmd.com / Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD Forget perfume, the keys important to choose foods to spicing up your sex life may that secrete chemicals and hormones that make you happy in already be in your kitchen. order to increase self-confiResearchers say the smell, dence, lower inhibitions, and taste, and even appearance of make you a better flirt. certain foods can act as potent aphrodisiacs that not only get Flirt-friendly foods include: you in the mood for love, but also may even make you a bet- Chili peppers. Spicy foods ter flirt and lover. And know- get the heart pumping and ing what foods are appropriate induce sweating. at each stage of the sex and mating process can maximize Bananas. They contain chemicals that reportedly have a these effects. mood-lifting effect on the "Different foods have differ- brain and raises self-confient nutrients and substances dence. that affect the body physiologically in different ways, that's Carrots. Their phallic appearwhy different foods work for ance and high-fiber content different stages," says clinical may induce sexual desire. sexologist Ava Cadell, PhD. "Some foods lower inhibitions, Foods for Seduction some get the blood flowing directly to the genitalia, and In the next stage, seduction, some foods release happy hor- aphrodisiacs can help trigger the release of sex hormones, mones." such as testosterone, provide a Cadell has grouped aphrodisi- quick energy boost, and acs into three groups based on increase blood flow to the genthe physiological effects they itals to get the body "in the have on the body and how mood" for love. those effects can enhance sexual performance at each stage At this stage, Cadell says it's important to create a visual of a person's sex life. stimulation with foods that look like the genitalia, such as Foods for Flirting oysters, fresh figs, or carrots.
ic is automatically going to set your brain in motion," says Cadell. "Second, certain foods release hormones, like testosterone in women that makes them more sexually aggressive and adventurous." Other foods for seduction include: Shrimp. High in iodine, shrimp and other types of seafood are vital to the thyroid gland, which is vital for energy. Chocolate. Not only does chocolate provide a jolt of caffeine, the plant has a flower that looks like sex organs. Ginger. This root reportedly increases blood flow to the genitals in both men and women. Olives. Green ones are believed to make men more virile, while black ones increase women's sex drive. Tomatoes. Known as "love apples" by Puritans, they have a reputation as a sexual stimulant. Apples. Since Adam and Eve, this fruit has been synonymous with temptation.
When looking for a potential mate, Cadell says it's "Anything that is visually erot- (Continued on page 18.......)
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
55
"My favorite thing is that when you're with someone , you feed each other the most seductive foods you can find," says Cadell, "like an asparagus where one person can start at one end and another at the other end and you meet in the middle." Cadell says not only is asparagus a sexy, long, phallic-looking food, but it's rich in potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and vitamin E that can aid in hormone production and raising energy levels. When it comes to the final stage of exploration and orgasm, even the scent alone of some aphrodisiacs may be enough to increase sexual arousal and enhance performance.
LIFE
"Depending on where you are in your relationship you may want to use different food odors and tastes, since 90% of taste is smell, to get the different responses you're looking for," says Alan R. Hirsch, MD, neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago. In a study that looked at what scents stimulated sexual arousal, Hirsch found every food aroma they tested triggered a sexual response in men, and some foods had more dramatic effects than others.
EX
"For example, cheese pizza increased penile blood flow by 5%, buttered popcorn by 9%, and lavender and pumpkin pie by 40%," Hirsch tells WebMD. "So you may want to start with something like cheese pizza to begin with."
RS
In comparison, floral perfume only prompted a 3% increase in blood flow to the penis among men. Among women, the smell of men's cologne actually lowered blood flow to the vagina. The study also found that the scent of lavender and pumpkin pie was a powerful sexual stimulant for women, but the combination of Good and Plenty (licorice-flavored candy) and cucumber was the most potent sexual scent in increasing blood flow to the vaginal area.
PIC IE
Unlike with men, the study found that some food smells actually inhibited sexual desire in women, such as cherries and the odor of barbeque or roasting meat.
A Smorgasbord of Aphrodisiacs
AS
Hirsch says there are a number of different theories about why foods have such a strong effect on sexual attraction and performance, but it's likely a combination of physiological and psychological responses at work. Because the effects of different foods are linked to past experiences, the sexual potency of various tastes and smells naturally vary greatly from person to person. That's why both Cadell and Hirsch recommend having fun with trying different aphrodisiacs to see what adds the right spice to your sex life. "Have a smorgasbord of aphrodisiacs, because they're not all going to appeal to everybody," says Cadell. According to the FDA, there is no scientific proof that any over-the-counter aphrodisiacs or foods can treat sexual dysfunction. In fact, over-indulgence in food or drink is a sure way to doom sexual performance and dampen desire. But while aphrodisiacs may not be a quick fix all your sexual problems, Cadell says the natural aphrodisiacs found in foods are not dangerous. "Let's be honest, the most erotic organ is the brain. So if you think something will turn you on, I guarantee it will," says Cadell. "There has always been a correlation between food and sex because they are two of greatest pleasures known to mankind, and both appetites need to be fulfilled."
INDEPENDENT COVER
KN street fame Words and Photo: Anthony Colom
Knoc, what’s going down ? You got it Ant. What you got going on ? Well, first off, this Knoc: Alabama P.I.M.P. I’m from Fayette, Alabama that 205. I put out the Mob Ties Volume 1 album a few years ago with features from Young Bleed, Al Kapone, K Rhino, and several other artists. Ok. You spent some dollars puttin that album together. Man.......... me and my brother, we were doing our thang. We were gettin’ it how we live out here. We were puttin’ all our money in this shit.
58 l
The New Power Magazine
OC Did that do well ? Yeah. It did well. When did you get into this ? Man, for me, it started when I heard that “Pocket Full Of Stones.” I was like fourteen. When I heard that I knew what time it was. How many cds have you done? I got a few cds out. I got caught
FA Y ALA ETTE , BA MA
up in these streets for a minute. I got that Alabama Hero cd out. I got my new joint coming out with DJ Smallz this month. It’s called Street Fame. I got production from Savage from Trill Entertainment on there. I got 15 tracks on there. I got production from Ty Cutta on there. Everyone knows him from The Alliance and their song “Tatted Up” and “Going Digital.” I used some old tracks I did with him before thay went major. I got production from D Kid from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He been winning all those beat battles over there. What are you hoping to do with Street Fame ? Man, I got a single already going strong. It’s called
encounter ridin’ to H-Town. It’s basically detailing that. We hoping to move 20,000 with this cd. Where will you market this ? You know we gone do Bama. We gone go all down I-10 with it. We going thru Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Those are the main markets right there. We got this Game Breakaz Entertainment. We ain’t lookin for no deal, we just lookin’ for some distribution right now. We got some consignment deals. We gettin a lot of play on these internet radio stations and college radio already. We just hired some street teams in different markets like Mobile, Alabama, and out in Texas. We just tryin to stay all in their face with it. We using the internet as well. Any fianl thoughts ?
“Get At Me.” I had a little
(662) 251-0075
Man, I wanna give a shout out to my brother who’s sitting down there in the Tuscaloosa County jail. They got him sittin down there for three years on a bull shit attempted murder charge. The lawyer’s tryin to get him out by this summer. Watch out for me and my business partners Big Bus and Mr. N.I.C.E. Shout out to DJ Taylr Made, DJ Smallz, and the other DJs who are supportin’ us.
www.newpowermagazine.com
59
62
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
23rd
COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI Introduce yourself.
TEK
recently did a couple of if I was still in Clevetracks for an artist named land, I probably wouldn’t I’m 23rd Tek. I’m an Dangero. see the same person aspiring producer. I’m twice. I’d have an opporalso a paid intern with As an aspiring produc- tunity to reach more peoSignature Sound Solu- er, who influenced ple also. tions in Columbus, you ? Mississippi. We offer proTell us about your new fessional studio projects Dr. Dre, Three Six Mafia, album. in that we record, mix, Kanye West, and Akon. and master music. We As an artist on the mic, I It’s called Overlooked offer printing and dupli- was influenced by Playa and Underrated. cation services, commer- Fly and Dirty. I’m origicials, jingles, movie over- nally from Cleveland, What’s behind the dubs, concert videos, and Ohio, but Memphis and name 23rd Tek? more. I started rapping as it’s artists have had a big part of a four-man group influence on me. I’ve It represents the street calle Full Clips back in been in Mississippi for 14 that I grew up on in 2002. I’ve been produc- years. Columbus: 23rd Avenue. ing since I was 12, and producing since I was 13. What brought you to Let’s say I’m someone Mississippi ? reading this interview As a paid-intern, what and I’ve never heard of all do you do ? Even though my mama you or your music..... and daddy lived in describe this album to In-house production, Cleveland, too, I always me in a way that I recording, and pre-mix- lived with my grand- might be interested in ing. mother. When she got ill, checking out your her folks were from material. Where are you down here, so I moved stronger, production or down here to live. Man, it’s straight flowing on the mic? with no gimmicks. It’s What’s been the gettin’ back to gangsta Well, really, the only rea- biggest adjustment ? rap. son I’m rapping is to promote my production. I The people. I know that
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
63
64
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
CONCEEDED
ROLLING FORK, MISSISSIPPI What’s happening ? What is it that you’d like our readers to know about you ? Well, my stage name is Conceeded. I’m originally from Rolling Fork, Mississippi. I’m from the delta. I’m currently in Omaha, Nebraska. I’ll be moving back to the Sipp before this issue is published. Why’d you leave Mississippi for Nebraska ? Poverty. I left Mississippi at a young age. My parents were teenagers when they left. So you know, there weren’t many job opportunities for teenage parents back then. Talk about your music. I started doing music about 10 years ago when I first hit high school. My first two years in high I was in a group called The Grunts. We released an
Where Reading Is Fundamental
album in Omaha called Jack Knife in late 2004. We split up cause the music wasn’t working out for us. There was a lot that we didn’t know about the business side at that time. Right I’m releasing my first solo project. It’s called Thee Come Up. It deals with hood-politics. Up here, we got a lot of young brothers dying just like anywhere else. I think it’s a diverse album. It’s gotta lyrical stuff, party stuff, and crunk stuff. Cashmere Royal from Denver did some production. He worked with Hell Rell and Crooked I. DJ Young Style from Little Rock, Arkansas did some as well. I’ve talked to artists from Omaha. People don’t generally think of Nebraska as a place where you’d find a lot of hip-hop artists. People in Mississippi think that Omaha is just farm country. It’s funny
(662) 251-0075
because that’s what people think Mississippi is. There are a lot of black folks here in Omaha. We got some monumental landmarks here. Nebraska is the birthplace of Malcolm X. Here, it’s just like anywhere else. You got a thousand people trying to rap. Like most of the other places, there ain’t no social unity among the artists. The rap scene could be bigger if the right people came together. Right now, we have a bigger indie rock scene. Do yall get any kind of support from your local djs ? I’m speaking of club and radio. Yeah, but you’ve gotta really be on a personal level with these DJs here, because they have their favorites. I got my own internet radio show coming to blogtalkradio.com. HoodAmbaasadors will be the name of the show.
www.newpowermagazine.com
65
66 l
The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
GETTYBERG
COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI Who is Gettyberg ?
growing up ?
I’m a new artist from Columbus, Mississippi. I haven’t been doing this long. I started around 2006. I did a bid and was locked up. I had some free time to get my thoughts together. I got a new mix cd coming out called Starve or Hustle.. It should be ready by the end of May or the first June. It’s produced by Orlando at Signature Sound and a young cat named Don D.
UGK, Scarface, and CMurder. You know, cats like that.
Whlie you were doing time, what was it that made you decide that music was something you wanted to pursue when you got out ? Man, I just had a lot to say. Change will do a lot of things to a person. Sometimes you just need to be heard. I felt like music would be the perfect way to express myself.
Where are you headed with this CD ? What are doing to expose yourself and your material ? We gone push it thru Mississippi and up around Memphis. I fuck with them Kin Folk Thugs up there in Memphis. We doing Myspace, Youtube, iTunes, posters, flyers, and all that. We doing this New Power, too. This mix cd..... is this original music, or are you rapping over someone elses instrumentals ?
Yeah, we’ll have it in some urban stores, and selling out the trunk. Of course we’ll have it available online, too. When you want sell music and gain new fans, I’ve found that for new independent artist, sometimes it’s best to give people a comparison to another artist that they’re more familiar with. So what established artist or group would you say your music would remind people of ? I do reality music. So I would say a mixture of Scarface and Plies. I like to speak on how I live and have lived. You know what I’m saying ?
Naw, it’s all original stuff. Will this project be available in stores, or are just doing the outof-trunk thing ?
Who did you listen to
Where Reading Is Fundamental
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
67
68
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
WEST POINT, MISSISSIPPI
KRUCIAL
What’s going on Krucial ?
Jody Floyd from the Mississippi delta that‘s getting some spins at radio right now. Correct ?
What’s up witcha ? With this publication, we like to give independent artists the opportunity to tell their story. What’s yours ? Basically man, I use to do a lot of writing, and rapping wasn’t my thing; but a lot of people kept telling me I should because they liked my stuff. So I just that and ran with it. I’ve been loving this music since I was about 11 years old. I got a mix cd that I’m bout to drop called Recently Discovered.. We’re starting to work on another one. I’ve noticed recently that you’ve been getting out there more. I seen you at conferences and you’re doing features with other artists from around the state of Mississippi. You’ve got a track with
Where Reading Is Fundamental
Yeah. “Crank It Up.” That’s a nice track. Orlando from Signature Sound came at me with the track, and they told me they wanted me to write the song. I said to hit em with that Mississippi style, let’s just get on a ridin’ tip. That’s when I came up with “Crank It Up.” I know you write, but do you produce also ? I don’t do no producing. Who were some of your influences ? My mama and my pops first off. Then Bone Thugs N Harmony, Master P, T.I., and UGK.
Yeah. They sing in church. My daddy is the pastor. I actually sing myself. Do you play instruments ?
any
Yeah. I can play the piano. Are you any good at it ? (laughing) Yeah. I’m actually a really good piano player. I’m assuming you grew up playing in church. If so, how does your father feel about what you’re doing now. Yeah. I played in church. My family has been supportive of what I’m doing. They I’m out here trying to it right. I do 3 things. I keep God first. I stay humble. I’m never gonna give up.
You said your mama and your pops. Are they singers or something ?
(662) 251-0075
www.newpowermagazine.com
69
70
l The New Power Magazine l www.newpowermagazine.com (662) 251-0075
LIL
ABERDEEN, MISSISSIPPI You’re doing something a little different right now. You’re normally dropping a lot of cds, but I see you’ve got a new dvd that you’re pushing really hard.
TONY
Yeah. It’s called Welcome To Ratchet City. It’s a dvd that shines the spotlight on all of the local talent around Aberdeen, Mississippi; also known as Deentown and Ratchet City. We got a few artists on there from surrounding areas like West Point. What made you wanna do something like that ? I own a record and clothing store in Aberdeen, and a lot of artists come to my store wanting to place their product, or just looking for some added exposure. I deal with a lot of locals, so I thought it would be a good idea to let people put a face to the names
Where Reading Is Fundamental
and the music that they’ve been listening to. These are usually people that no one even knew was doing anything musically related. Where can we purchase or view a trailor of the dvd ? You can view clips on my Youtube page at youtube.com/myliltony. You can purchase it at cdbaby.com/ratchetcity. Is this the only installment of this dvd, or are you planning on doing more in this series ? We actually have a BanditStyle dvd coming soon. I haven’t picked a date yet. It’s gonna be strictly Aberdeen. Musically, what have you been doing ? The last time I saw you, you were talking about CDbaby receipts and how artists around you didn’t believe
(662) 251-0075
you were getting paid well from online sells. I’ve been working on some new stuff. I got a lot of stuff that people have never heard, too. I been prolonging putting this new stuff out. As far as CDbaby, man, I can show these young cats around me my payment receipts trying to motivate them to put their stuff online, and they’ll swear that I either fake it, or have to be doing something a lot different from everyone else in order to make that kind of money. I just get up off by butt and hustle man. They think you can put the shit online and just sit back and wait on money. I try to put my stuff on every kinda music site I can. I e-mail people all the time. I spend about 6 hours a day workin’ the internet. I plan on dropping a mix cd around August when school is starting back.
www.newpowermagazine.com
71
BE SEEN OR BE
FORGOTTEN. ADVERTISE IN THE NEW POWER MAGAZINE.
662.251.0075 www.newpowermagazine.com
myspace.com/4conceededhoodambassadors
URBAN
CONNECTIONZ CLEVELAND’S PREMIER URBAN ENTERTAINMENT
MAGAZINE Hip-Hop News
Fashion, Sports, and Poetry Artist Interviews CD Reviews Release Dates and more .... www.urban-connectionz.com
WWW.NEWPOWERMAGAZINE.COM