VULKANERS

Alyson

@alyyyalyyson

Originally from Shanghai, China, Alyson is now living in Los Angeles where she pursues a career as a college counselor and model! Rocking a minimalistic style with a touch of wow factors, she wants to catch people’s attention but also remain under the radar. The most dominating pieces in her closet would have to be her vintage pieces from the Japanese Market. A truly dream come true would be walking the London Fashion week because as she expressed with a full heart, “There’s something about London that is so magical to me. When speaking of domination, the first word that comes up for her is “powerful” and with her recent spike in confidence, it’s safe to say that she definitely identifies more with being a dom! Welcome Vulkaner, Alyson!

@sharmond

Rocking a simple yet daring style, singer and songwriter, Sharmond, had a dream and decided to turn it into a reality when he moved from Louisiana to Los Angeles. The most daring piece in his closet being what he wore on set of his Vulkaner’s interview, he has many hopes and aspirations for the future. As he opened up, “a dream come true would be winning a Grammy. We are manifesting that, and I just want to share my music with the world. That is my goal. My aspiration.” When asked what domination meant to him, he answered “domination means power in a very mutual agreement. You know you’re powerful, I know I am powerful and we are both harmoniously together on that.” Goosebumps! Definitely a dom, we welcome you Vulkaner, Sharmond!

Sashi Sato

@sachigreisarto

Sashi Sato, an artist and photographer from New York, keeps it real with her style as she picks out the pieces that best represent what she is feeling that day. “It usually is something black cause it’s my favorite color,” she shared. “And the most dominant piece would be these red boots!” What would be a dream come true for her? Easy, it would be to headline Coachella! For this empowering beauty, domination represents “not being afraid of anything; not even dominating somebody else but dominating your own fears and being confident in whatever you do!” Yes, yes, yes! Depending on which topic is at hand, it’s Sashi shared laughingly that she is “pretty dom.” Keep on going Vulkaner, Sashi!

@i.amcastillo

Castillo moved from Mexico to Los Angeles in pursuit of finding himself in the world of music and fashion. Currently working as a press and VIP coordinator for ALL SAINTS, his main focus is on music as he hopes to release his songs and perform for crowds very soon! Taking on a crazy blend in terms of his style, “if I had to classify my style, it would be western meets 90s verve oasis but skater style.” When thinking about his most dominant piece, it was pretty easy: a pair of thrifted old Gucci white trousers! As we continued on the topic of domination, he explained: “you can’t be dominated by something unless you are dedicated to it and just have the confidence to be confident.!” More of a leader than a follower, he definitely is a dom! Welcome Vulakner, Castillo!

@willmoncadaj

Bringing the heat from Columbia, Will Moncada currently lives in Los Angeles where he is pursuing his dreams and career as a model and influence! Every day is a new look as he dresses based on how he is feeling; “it is an expression of how I am feeling. I take whatever I need, I make it happen and I get creative,” he shared. The most dominant piece in his closet is not so much one piece of clothing but the notion of simple clothes to which he can add that extra something that makes it his own. Hoping to become a creative director for a big brand, Will loves to create art and learn about it. As he put with a warm heart, “I am always in the process of discovering myself through art, music, fashion, video, and social media.” And of course, to inspire other people. The word domination to him means power, the power we have of expression and how we can dominate our thoughts. “I like that word, it’s kind of sexy.” Definitely a dom, he has his sub moments too! Welcome Vulkaner, Will!

Sylvan Lewis

@sylvanlewis

Photographer and musician from Paris, Sylvan Lewis describes his style as a mix between thrift store and haute couture. Of course, the most dominant piece in his closet would have to be a pair of leather pants! When asked about his dreams and aspirations, he opened up: “it would be to change the world with my music and my art and make a difference and make money while making a difference.” He is definitely on the path to true success! When talking about domination, he explained how it makes him think directly of the relationship between the dominated and dominee. If it’s in a sexual context, he sees it as a telling that the relationship is cool and fun “but in a social and political context, I don’t think domination has a place in this world,” he added candidly. With a burst of laughter, he shared “I’m definitely a dom, dom dom dom, dom dom dom dom dom.” Welcome Vulkaner, Sylvan!

Anurag Sharma

@anuragsharma91

From Mumbai, India, Anurag sharma is the managing director of “Dirty Magazine,” whose style truly harnesses the Vulkaner vibe. Timeless and classic with a hint of a twist, such as his jewelry, the most dominant piece in his closet would have to be his spandex harness which he found while thrifting in India. Working hard to accomplish his dreams career wise, he also hopes to have his family and friends around and to eventually go to India and live there. “After the pandemic, I wanted a peaceful and happy life,” he explained. For him, Domination has two different meanings when it comes to the bedroom and to life. “Domination for me is being bossy in life and in bed. I am a sub in bed and a dom in life.” Welcome, Vulkaner Anurag!

SERAYAH

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Styling by Milli Hair + Makeup by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Serayah continues to make a name for herself both in the acting and singing world. An absolutely badass woman, she inspires us all to keep being our true and authentic selves all the while being open to the other beautiful people in the world! Having just released her single “P.O.V” and starring as the lead on “Kingdom Business,” there is no stopping her now. With so much to see and discover, it’s important to do what feels right and to never give up…Thank you, Serayah!

How do you find your power in acting and singing?

The power I find in what I do is being able to create a product that moves people and affects them personally. I love that aspect of my job.

In what ways does domination (i.e. power, control etc.) take effect in your life?

Power has to be used effectively or else it can ruin a whole empire. I definitely have grown into knowing how and when to use my power over my image and voicing exactly what I want at all times.

Describe to us a moment you faced adversity and how you overcame it.

One moment that sticks out to me from my career is all of the no’s I got along the way to reaching my success. It was really crushing my spirits at one point. BUT I was reminded you only need 1 yes!

If you could be any hero, who would you pick and why?

I would be Captain America because he overcame so much adversity and he did good work with the powers he was given.

Who is Serayah in 2022?

Serayah is unapologetically herself and authentically taking the world by storm to further the mission of love and compassion for others.

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FULL LOOK MOSHINO PANTS + JACKET RINGS @luvmyjewelry MISTER TRIPLE X misho_designs NECKLACE

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MAX EHRICH

Photo + Styling by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Max Ehrich has some very exciting plans for us, one of them being his upcoming music video and song! Oh yes, this talented artist is making moves in the industry and has our heads turning and knees going weak! A jack-of-all trades, there isn’t much Max can’t do…and we are excited to be part of this journey with him! Make sure to check out the full interview and fall in love with all that Max Ehrich is!

Share with us the upcoming releases you have planned!

I have a new single off of my upcoming project titled “Dangerous” dropping soon on all streaming platforms. Following that up with a music video as well. I also am starring in a feature film, where I play a rockstar turned preacher titled SOUTHERN GOSPEL that I filmed during the pandemic.

How are you feeling?

I am feeling an immense amount of joy and gratitude. I am over the moon excited to share my art and continue to connect with my fans.

As an artist, what do you believe is your most dominant characteristic?

I believe my most dominant characteristic is passion. I had a gravitation towards the arts since childhood and have been enjoying the process of my evolution as an artist.

Describe to us the feeling you get when you pick up the microphone.

It depends on what I’m singing about. These days; There’s been a feeling of freedom, joy, but I love being vulnerable through my art so it gives people permission to authentically live. I’ve processed many experiences through my music; So it’s very cathartic.

What do you hope to make others feel?

I hope to make people feel seen and heard. Art is a tool that brings people together. Now more than ever I would love to unite people.

Growing up, who was someone who played a dominant role in your life? Explain.

My parents mean the world to me. They’ve always supported and encouraged my creative endeavors even from when I was around 4 or 5. I was introduced to the piano as young as I can recall.

Tell us more about your workout routine and any tips for our readers?

I love to incorporate nature along with weight training. I start my day off with a prayer and then a hike. I follow that up with some protein and strength training. The ocean is also my happy place and I love to surf.

What does 2022 look like for Max Ehrich?

It looks like a fulfilling journey of continuing to share my artistic expressions through music and acting.

DIARRA SYLLA

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Hair + Makeup by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Ohlala, I am so excited to share with you our time with Diarra Sylla on the set of her Vulkan Fever shoot! Truly a breath of fresh air, the artist produces songs that are a mix of pop, afrobeat and more…With a spirit like hers, there is no doubt that she finds herself rising quickly in the world of music as she remains dedicated, bright, and rockin a killer style! With a multicultural background, it’s safe to say that her perspective on the world is broad and just a warm embrace of love and awareness! On adore!

While performing, what would you say is your most dominant dance move/song?

I’ve always loved singing since I can remember. I always knew somehow that it was exactly what I wanted to do my whole life.

On a spiritual level, what do you feel you bring to the world? And what do you hope to gain from the world?

I feel that spirituality is different for many people. For me, I was born Muslim and so I believe in the power of Islam. But I also believe in the power of me (my soul, my light and my love) as I believe we were all created to create.

Describe your musical and fashion style in a few words.

I’m an undead gothic 2000s pop star sent from the past to change the future who loves Britney Spears as much as they love Nine Inch Nails. My style is a little goth, a little runway, and a lotta I don’t give a shit what’s cool or not.

How does your ethnical background help you with your music?

My ethnical background doesn’t support music. Even though music and fashion are huge in my home country, in Senegal, many believe it to be "against the good", meaning it’s seen as a distraction for most. But for me, music is an art - music is my way to freedom.

What do you hope to accomplish in this lifetime?

Growing up, I didn’t get to experience a loving childhood. The traumas I experienced during that time of my life made me look at every single thing and every single person differently. Even though I didn’t receive much love back then, I want to turn my energy and pain into a love language and connect the world with it. It’s possible to live in a loving world free of hate, and I feel that’s my mission.

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CARLOS ZAUR

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

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Carlos Zaur jumped into the world of music and has been producing covers of songs ever since. Taking this as a road to his own music, the talented artist is truly on his path of light. Hoping to convey emotions in the most raw form, consistency and hard work are the key ingredients to making it in this world/ industry. Self-love is vital and Carlos Zaur continues to dive into that each day through his music, hard work, and passion.

Why did you decide to jump into producing covers of songs? What is your process like?

I honestly always saw covers as a road to my own music. I thought covering songs in a way true to myself could help me eventually be able to release my own music and create a following that already liked my way of creating music. I always picked a song I felt I could do justice to, and decided with my producers Gil Elguezabal and Lalo Bladinieres what the right direction for the song was, I never wanted to do a copy paste cover, I felt it was very important to create covers that were musically related to what I eventually wanted to create with my own music. It was an amazing journey. I learned a lot about the sound I wanted and what I wanted to project as an artist.

As an artist, what do you believe your purpose is

I would love to convey emotions in the realest, most heartfelt way in my songs. I think my purpose is hopefully inspiring and connecting with people that have been through similar hardships as me and maybe help us all realize we always have more things in common than differences.

How do you use your platform for more than just releasing content?

I'm trying to work on having more personal content on social media to be more authentic to myself and not just portray who I want to “look like” as an artist. I try to talk about anything and everything that matters to me, social causes and my point of view. I also find value in posting content that is random and just funny and lighthearted.

If you could go back in time to visit a certain artist, who would it be and why?

I’d wanna meet Bob Marley. I just think he’s a wise man with true values based on the way he wrote his music and went about his life. Would love to learn from a goat like him.

Describe your music to us and what you hope it makes your audience feel.

Each song makes me feel differently. Honestly, I don’t really care what you feel from my music as long as you feel something.

Share with us a time you made the encounter of a lifetime. Explain.

The time I met Michael Jackson. Long story short I was in Las Vegas watching the David Copperfield show, second row right in the middle of the theater. All of the first row was empty which was weird since the whole place was sold out. The show starts and in every single theater door appears a bodyguard, and right in front of my seat a “woman” with a kid and a friend sits down. I couldn't tell who she was because it was dark and she was literally in front of me. I thought it was Cher, then there is this trick where David throws beach inflatable balloons to the audience. I decided not to look back but the “woman” in front of me does and all of a sudden I have Michael Jacksons’ face 50cms from mine. I could not believe it, I was a fan. He had the most perfect skin I have seen in my life, doll skin. So when David took audience members to the stage nobody paid attention to him they just stared at Michael. During the show they played his songs and he would move his head and feet dancing to the music. When the show finished I shook his hand and told him i loved him lol he was extremely nice.

Best advice for upcoming artists?

Don't stop. Consistency, and I believe this career is a resistance one, whoever has the most patience is the one who I feel does it better. It's tough, get used to rejection and don't take it personally.

How do you hope to make 2022 a memorable year?

I want to embrace myself more, love myself more in every way and release my album!!!

SK8

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Music. Such a broad term when you really think of it, no? What is music? Sound? Lyrics? A mix of it all? Pretty much. And with music comes themes and feelings which are so different for each artist, which makes meeting different ones unique experiences in themselves. Sk8 has recently released a song which we highly recommend you check out and he continues to rock his way to the top!

When I say the word “domination,” what comes to mind? In what ways do you “dominate”?

Lots comes to mind, but honestly I try to keep control over my life as much as possible, but that’s hard in the industry I’m in.

Being a musician, what would you say has been the most difficult obstacle you have overcome so far?

As a musician the most difficult obstacle to overcome has just been believing in yourself. No matter how many accolades or gold records or anything you get you still sometimes have that little doubt. So the biggest is just to stay on the course and not give up.

What is the most dominant theme in your song releases? Most dominant instrument? Your most dominant song?

In my recent releases the most dominant instrument would probably be the drums. They usually are depending on the types of guitars but the drums really stand out and dominate the whole record.

Share with us the earliest memory you have encountering music and how it made you feel. Who are some of the most influential people in your life? In what ways did they help shape who you are today?

The earliest memory I have of diving into music would be when I was 14, I was like a sophomore in highschool so maybe 15, I went to BestBuy and bought the 30 or 40 pack of blank CD’s and brought them home. I put all the music on them individually, each one. I downloaded the songs onto them and tried to sell them at the school but I ended up just giving them all away cause no one wanted to buy my CD.

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MELISSA L. WILLIAMS

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Hair + Makeup by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Leading the cast on BET+ series “Ruthless,” the beautiful and empowering Melissa L. Williams showcases her talents on and off screen. Also volunteering in her spare time with The Young Storytellers, an arts education non-profit operating primarily in Los Angeles that targets Title 1 schools. A bright light in this world, Mellisa L. Williams spoke with us at Vulkan about her time acting, her purpose, and more!

As a woman in the tv/film industry, do you feel as though there is more room for women power today?

There is always more room for women power hold space and be a force in the tv/film industry or any industry! I am an African-American woman leading a hit television show written, directed and produced by the first black billionaire who owns the largest production studio in the world. Today, anything is possible.

What do you believe is your most dominating characteristic when walking into a meeting?

I believe my most dominating characteristic is that I move with intention. When I want something, I will get it. It may take a while but I am willing to do the work required and have the patience to see it through. I walk into any meeting with intention and purpose.

Through your acting, what do you hope to accomplish?

I plan on accomplishing a lot of things; from Broadway, to putting out my own music, to producing my own projects. I am excited for my future and my goal is longevity within industry.

Share with us a time you felt defeated yet overcame the situation at hand.

Maya Angelou dropped this gem on defeat. “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.”

At what point did you feel yourself connected to your true power?

At this point in my life, I feel like I am starting to tap in and am connecting to my true power. I feel like that takes time and solidarity to discover through focused self-work

Any messages for our readers on what it takes to truly live life to its fullest?

I'm gonna leave you with another Maya Angelou quote “you may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”

TIMO NUNEZ

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Calling all dancers to the dance floor, repeat…calling all dancers to the dance floor. Oh boy is it getting hot in here! Dancer and artist, Timo Nunez, has our hearts here at Vulkan as he shared with us what it is like being a performer and more. Having always been drawn to singing/dancing from a very young age, there is no surprise that he is doing exactly what he was destined for. Through practice and dedication, he is able to accomplish so much and as he embraces his culture, he also pushes forward what makes him unique! Te quiero, Timo!

As you step onto the stage, what do you believe dominates you? Takes full control over you?

I feel so many things. I feel nervous that I never know what will happen, but also I feel prepared and that I am meant to be there. Sometimes I feel emotional because I am grateful and other times I feel like a bitch that wants to enjoy being fearless. As all these thoughts run through my head super fast, I take deep breaths, to quiet them all down, look up to heaven and think about my loved ones who have passed. I thank them for watching over me.

Share with us your journey as an artist up until now.

I was in the living room of my parents house when I was 4 years old. I was dancing and singing the show CATS and making everyone watch me perform. I knew I needed to dance. I began ballet when I was 7 hrs old and flamenco when I was 8. I was always dancing wherever I went. I danced at school during lunch time and I was bullied everyday from age 8 until I graduated high school. When I was younger I suffered a lot because on one hand I was very affected by the things people would say about me because I wanted to be accepted and on the other hand I was stubborn and fought for what I loved. I continued to dance and never stopped. I was hired professionally for the first time when I was 12 and continued to have success as a flamenco dancer over the years. Secretly I also wanted to sing. I had a personal breakthrough after a tough relationship where I realized that this life was given to me as a gift and that I needed to do the things I felt passionate about with zero fear. Deep down inside, I knew that I had a strong urge to use my voice. I have devoted the last 3 years to creating the first male singer/flamenco dance act. I am a Spanish, Mexican, German artist born in California who has been studying in Spain my whole life but grew up at the beaches listening to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I love storytelling, drama, passion, pop culture and I strive to include all of the influences of my life in my performances. I am many things, a combination of the people who have helped me arrive at this moment.

Favorite performance to date and why.

I have so many special performance memories over the years. This month has been very fulfilling for me. I performed my new song, “Loco” at the opening for Debbie Allen and Shonda Rhimes on the same stage as Jennifer Hudson and Billy Porter. To see the faces of so many people that I admire in the industry, looking back at me with smiles, was so epic for me. But last week I performed with the incredible artist, super estrella Gloria Trevi at the Latin American Music Awards. To walk the carpet with her and interview with her was something I’ll never forget. We shared a special moment backstage before we performed and she noticed my necklace from my grandmother. I always pray to this necklace before I perform. To share that with her and then perform our song La Recaída together felt amazing. I was feeding off of her energy the whole time. There is nothing like performing with Gloria. I am very blessed.

How long does it take for you to master the skills of your craft? Do you have any tips/tricks?

With everything, practice is essential. The time I put in reflects on the product. I like to think I have a healthy obsession; a love affair with my work. I respect the work, the process and the weight of what I’m doing. Every day I do something for my art. Every day. I wake up and go to sleep thinking about it. My advice is to find what you love so that it never feels like work. It sounds like bullshit but it’s true for me.

In what ways does fashion play an important part in your life as well?

Fashion is an extension of our identity. Music and dance without any attention on fashion is not a full expression in my opinion. Fashion reflects my persona- who I am. I have shot many fashion editorials that have felt like authentic moments for me. Although they tend to have an emphasis on flamenco, they also show androgyny, sexuality and freedom to share my life experience. I’m not faking it, I love it.

Talk to us more about how you fully embrace your culture and who you are.

Culture is what makes us each unique. No one is exactly like anyone else. I grew up listening to Mariachi, flamenco, pop, rap, musicals, Motown, classical music, and it all matters to me and to the art I want to make. Culture is about coming together to create something that people can connect with. Feel something for. Something special that we are all a part of.

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CAMI PETYN

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Hair + Makeup by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Many people have a signature.. Signature look, signature accessory, signature catch phrase…and for singer Cami Petyn, her signature piece would have to be hand down, her hair! Always changing and always looking so unique and fabulous, it definitely matches her musical talent and charisma as well. Keep reading on and discover more of what makes Cami, Cami Petyn!

What makes singing so special? In what ways does it feed your soul?

I feel the most powerful when I’m singing. I’m someone that has a hard time opening up/speaking up, but through singing I somehow feel safe to say anything, it gives me a voice. I truly consider singing and making music (or any art) a form of alchemy. It allows you to take any emotions and transmute them into something new and beautiful. And then allows you to connect to others with it. The connection aspect of singing is the most important to me. It truly makes the soul feel whole. Gah I love music haha.

At what moment did you know becoming an artist was your path?

After my first vocal lesson. During that lesson it seriously felt like something shifted in my brain. I walked in just wanting to learn how to sing and I walked out absolutely hell bent on making music my career. It was the first time I attempted to take music seriously so I guess that just turned on a switch in my brain and absolutely nothing was going to turn it off. It was literally life changing.

What can our readers and your fans expect in the next year?

I may or may not be finalizing an EP currently that may or may not be coming out in the fall.

Your hairstyle and color make you stand out/ unique! Tell us more about it.

Thank you! I grew up as a VERY shy person, like my everyday goal was just to blend in as much as I could. So now that I've finally worked through that & found myself, I NEVER want to go back to feeling so small. So my everyday goal now is to be viciously authentic and be ME loudly. Which involves having wild colored hair. It’s definitely a form of self-expression for me. Lucas Tamaio is the hair WIZARD behind all the styles/colors :)

The most rebellious thing you have ever done?

Honestly, probably pursue music. Not a SINGLE person in my personal life supported me/understood what I was doing for years. Many people told me to stop. And honestly, it didn’t make any sense for me to pursue music. But all I knew is that music lit my soul on fire so I kept pushing forward. And now I’m doing the damn thing. Pretty rebellious if you ask me.

Share with us the most dominating object in your room. Explain why that one.

My guitar. It’s how I dominate my feelings, emotions and problems. And it’s how I get through to the world around me. My guitar is how I dominate!

CAYLEE COWAN

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Hair + Makeup by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Actress, Caylee Cowan, brings beauty, brain, and talent together as she continues on her uphill walk to fame! Beautiful inside and out, we had a great time shooting her onset of her Vulkan Fever shoot. We dove in a little deeper when getting to know her through this exclusive interview below and we can’t wait for you all to discover more about her the way we did! Go, Caylee!

In what ways does Acting play a dominant role in your life?

It is my favorite form of creative expression, and it is how I make a living. Acting plays a dominant role in my life because each role that I do requires me to understand and become someone new, meet a lot of people, and travel somewhere else to work for a few months. It is a job that requires you to be the kind of person who can put yourself in someone else’s shoes

Do you believe you have found your true purpose in life? Explain.

My purpose in life is to connect with others in a meaningful way by sharing stories and experiences. My purpose in regards to my vocation is to participate in making art that connects with my community.

Tell us more about your different projects and the different parts of yourself that they have reflected.

I have played “Jan Hurst” in Sunrise In Heaven who is the daughter of a man in the military. She falls in love despite her fathers wish for her to not be with someone like himself. I played Kathy in Willy’s Wonderland who wants to escape her small town. In Frank and Penelope I played Penelope who has a dark past but overcomes the circumstances to which she was born and finds true love. I think that all of my characters have parts of myself reflected in them. Ultimately I think those characteristics are perseverance, grit, determination, and a desire to overcome the circumstances they were born into.

Growing up, what was the most dominant factor in your life that made you who you are today?

Growing up, we didn’t have much. That has taught me to be a person who gives to others and values material items less than relationships. It has taught me that the simplest things that can make you happy in life cannot be bought.

If you could co-star with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be and why?

Casey Affleck because I love him and I think he’s the most underrated brilliant actor alive today. Of course, I’m a bit bias. Or maybe I’d pick Sam Shepard because he was not only an actor, but also a brilliant playwright who wrote some of my favorite plays. I’d also like to work with Tilda Swinton because she’s great, and the other night, when my Uber didn’t show up, she gave me a ride home.

Define power and domination in your own terms.

Real power is influence, and it increases as we offer more support to others. Being powerful is more about giving support than getting support. Service is the highest form of leadership and it creates the kind of influence that truly powerful people wield- the kind that resonates and uplifts. Real power is increased within a person simply by the choices they make, actions they take, and the thoughts they create.

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JNR CHOI

Photo + Styling by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Styling by Toreno Winn Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Many of you may be familiar with artist Jnr Choi and for those of you who don’t… what better time than now to get to know him?! Rapper and artist, he was born in Gambia and moved to the UK where he was able to tap into his love for music. Known for his song TO THE MOON, there is a lot more coming from the talented artist and we are excited to see what he has in store for us next!

As an artist, in what ways do you have the power to influence people in a positive way?

I’d say the main source of influence is the music and the power to positively influence peoples moods. I’ve had tons of people tell me that my music has saved them, uplifted them or influenced their day. But also action. The world is full of negativity that people feed off of it but there are millions of people that filter that urge and look for the light. Me consistently doing things for the better has proven to inspire a lot of people to do and go after what they want and there’s a lot more positive influence to come.

Do you have a story of a time you used

your platform for the “greater good”?I There was a time I was due to release a song. Unfortunately a lot began to happen in Africa and their governments, & releasing this song during that time didn’t sit right with me so I promised to donate all of the profits of a song I was releasing towards various charities to help what was going on.

What are the most dominant aspects of your character that you want to reflect through your music?

The power to do whatever you like. The world is your oyster and you are the director of your own movie.

Have you found your muse? Explain.

My muse is currently, and has always been myself to be honest. I bounce off my own energy and in regards to music It’s influenced my lifestyle. Champagne bottles and designer clothes.

Describe to us what gets your heart pumping and feet going.

Having goals to complete. I set new goals every day in lineup to the bigger goals ahead. So waking up and ticking off the smaller goals keeps me charged up.

In what ways does music dominate you? How do you dominate it?

When I’m in the studio it really takes over me. So much goes into the creative process. So much comes out of me and I tend to surprise myself once a solid product is ready to listen to. I dominate it by staying in control of my intentions. Focusing on the bigger picture once I’ve let myself go and using all the pieces to paint a masterpiece.

BRADY TUTTON

Photo by Ryan Jerome @ryan_jerome Grooming by Brenda Ferrell @B-Ready Beauty Writing by Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites

Growing up in a small town, there were never many individuals looking to pursue a music career but that did not stop Brady Tutton from finding his true calling. With the love and support of his family, he decided to give singing a shot and thank god he did! Pinpointing what you like is the ultimate first step in writing music, which seems so simple yet many forget! Discover more of the talented Brady Tutton in this exclusive interview for Vulkan and feel yourself getting inspired!

How did you discover that music was your passion and that you wanted to pursue a career as an artist?

To be honest, when I was younger the idea of being an artist seemed so out of reach, that I hadn’t considered it a possibility for me. I knew I had a good ear for arranging and harmonies, but at that time I couldn’t see how that could translate to a career. In a way, that worked out very well for me as it allowed me to explore different types of music, without the pressure of deciding which genres align with my own. Without a doubt, signing to a label so young expedited my path to where I am now, and showed me all the small ways artists go right and wrong.

Growing up, in what ways did you express your unique self. Did you feel like you could?

I grew up in a town called Shorewood, Wisconsin, which, although a very arts-centered town, was very small so there weren't many other people trying to pursue a music career. It's kind of a double-edged sword because it gives you perspective, and room to decide who you want to be sonically, but also makes the idea of having any success sound much less possible. Despite it not being very common where we lived, my family was always supportive of me and what I wanted to do in life. I remember once, after living in LA for a while and working in music, I asked my mom if I should get a second job, and she told me, “If you get a job, you’ll be too tired to be creative when you get home.”

What would you say is the most dominant object in your room?

I have this little money tree on my dresser and it was one of the better purchases I have made for sure. I’m not sure why, but having plants makes the long nights feel less lonely, and improves the overall atmosphere. I have several plants now, but he was the og. I named him Ty Dolla tree.

When writing a new song, what inspires you?

If you make music or any type of art, it’s hard not to have an element of spirituality in your process. I wouldn’t consider myself religious, but there are many times when being open to ideas or thoughts that may come from somewhere or something you don’t fully understand is helpful. My whole life I’ve loved beautiful things, so much of my goal in music is simply to make something I find beautiful, whether it fits the billboard mold or not. I would also consider myself a maximalist in every sense of the word; If you have a nice melody, why not add strings, horns, a key change, and everything you can fit without it being annoying.

Who is an artist that is dominating the music industry in your opinion?

There are a lot of artists that make songs that are perfect for right now, do very well, and make lots of money. And then some artists make songs that may not be universally loved in the same way but feel like a genuine representation of the artist. Doja Cat fits into the first category, but everything she makes feels genuine and new and fresh. For some artists that get as big as she did and so fast, it’s hard to see how they can evolve and where they can take their music next; I think she has a lot more years ahead of her to be on top, and there are so many different directions that she could go that would make sense.

Best lesson/advice you have ever been given?

There’s an interview with Chick Corea, where he talks about how the first and most basic step of making any form of art is knowing what you like. This sounds so simple but many people skip that step. What do you find beautiful? It can be much harder to answer than it seems at face value. When you spend time learning what you like and why you like it, creating things you like becomes a much less daunting task.

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I DO NOT WANT TO BE AT THE MERCY OF MY EMOTIONS. I WANT TO USE THEM, TO ENJOY THEM, AND TO DOMINATE THEM.”

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