P.I.F.F. Magazine Vol. 4 Issue 3 "Boss Issue" [May 2019] by P.I.F.F. Magazine

PIFF THE BOSS ISSUE POSITIVE INFLUENCE FOR THE FUTURE

Issue 4.3 I may 2019

featuring patricia ceo Build Your Model Portfolio Nipsey Hussle's Hustle Boss'n Up (How?)

DaniLeigh - 16 Bars - piff Poetry - V.E.N.T. Vol 2 - politickin' with bliss bindope

stories

THE MAKING OF A BOSS

NIPSEY HUSSLE’S HUSTLE

THE PLAN

From hustling and stacking to

Rest In Paradise to a true King who

It’s another P.I.F.F. Review, but this

modeling and acting, Patricia CEO

was not only the solid example of a

time we’re months late!! Regardless,

is breaking all barriers within the

Boss, but also a spark of inspiration

it had to be done. Being put on and

industry. She came up from the

and motivation for an entire society.

presented this incredible talent’s

bottom and made it her business

Instead of dwelling on his death

project well past-date [4 months to

to learn the game when the world

like most media, we highlight his

be exact], we fell in love with Def

refused to give it to her. From

mission and achievements and also

Jam’s DaniLeigh and made it our

MTV to Baby Phat, this self-taught

his legacy. This article is a must-read

duty to give her second album ‘The

model, actress, signer, scout, agent,

for any serious Boss.

Plan’ an the official P.I.F.F. Review

manager, reality show personality is

stamp. Our rating? You’ll have to

the true definition of a boss.

read to find out!

departments editorial Positive Influence for the future editors note

Politickin' with Bliss Bindope

modelling Snaps

MODEL life

cover feature The Making of a Boss Patricia CEO Interview

entertainment 16 Bar Challenge PIFF poetry

47-48 60

P.i.F.F. review DaniLeigh's second album â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

gets the official P.I.F.F. Review

on the cover patricia ceo 38 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019

EAST COAST KILLA BEEZ

may 2019 Founding Editor

Photographers

Contributors

Xavier “CompleX” Prue

NeVaughn Brown

Patricia CEO

Edward “Trey Photo” Louis Smith

MTV

Assistant Editor

Emily X. Gore [EXG Photos]

Flickr

Ri Royal

Katie Grace

Jawan Winns

Whitney Collings

J.E. Photos

Legal Consultant Malissa Hurry

Nox Films

Music Review Manager

Mark O’Brien Photography

Xavier “CompleX” Prue

Anthony Heath

Promotions Manager Brenda “Mzz BK” Lowery

Vett Adams

Poetry Manager

East Coast Killa Beez

Be Bold Toya

Legal Mobb Entertainment

Bloggers Bliss Bindope

Beautiful & Beyond Entertainment

event coordinator Dionne Baldwin

Writers Malissa Hurry

Graphic Designer

TLKC

Martin ‘Lab’ Ridgway

Taj “Real Talk” Thomas Xavier Prue ES Writer

E-mail: editor@piffmag.com Twitter: @piffmag

Facebook: facebook.com/piffmagz Instagram: @piffmag

the boss issue

issue 4.3

www.piffmag.com 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019

It’s been an interesting time in the P.I.F.F. offices lately and a lot has been going on in the P.I.F.F. community and within the hip-hop community. Whoever knew that releasing a Self-Love issue would’ve led us to so many showing love to P.I.F.F.? We were able to sign MTV’s Patricia CEO, who is this month’s cover person and getting ready to make a strong re-emergence into the game ever since her show went off-air a few years back. Be sure to check out her feature spread interview and get familiar.

editor’s note

positive influence for the future Speaking

Patricia

CEO,

You know who was one of the

Check out the article by ES Writer,

decided to make this issue of P.I.F.F.

greatest

boss

which brings you deeper into the

all about that Boss life; so whether

for

generation?

mind of a genius who was more

you’re a corporate thug out there

The legend that will forever be

getting' it in Black Wall Street, a

known

female Empress of your own empire,

REST IN PEACE TO A KING who

We’ve got more of your P.I.F.F.

a hustla, a 9-5 grind master, a dream

paved the way for young bosses

favorites and an exclusive feature

chaser, or just a single parent holding

in the ghetto and showed us that

with the Joint Chiefs, as well as

it down with no help!! - you still a

we could strive to more than being

other goodies in store in this Boss-

Boss, baby! Remember that “boss”

just gang members, that we could

minded/ business edition issue of

is a mental state, never defined by

become more than just Crenshaw and

P.I.F.F. Also, stay tuned for news of

your current circumstances... even

Slauson, that we could actually make

the new V.E.N.T. mixtape!! Follow

if you feel you’ve hit rock bottom

a difference in our communities and

us and subscribe today to get in

in this moment of your life, you still

change the ways of the system built

the loop and become a part of the

a Boss, trust me and the reason is

against us if we just... UNITE AND

P.I.F.F. movement!It

because you refuse to accept defeat

UNIFY AS ONE HOOD!! Y’all don’t

and you still stand strong against the

hear me, though... We didn’t choose

negativity and that’s what bosses

to focus on his death as most media

do.... not everyone possesses what

companies have; we wanted to focus

you do, remember that... that’s what

on his business achievements and the

I told one of my friends earlier and I

boss moves he made for his peoples.

examples

today’s as

urban NIPSEY

than just a rapper.

HUSSLE!!

Xavier “COMPLEX” Prue Editor-in-Chief

meant every word...

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 11

POLITICKINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with Bliss Bindope

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 13

do you have what it takes

by BLISS BINDOPE

I have been meditating on this article for a while. I have been contemplating what to write, being that I am going through one of the most difficult times of my life. One thing occurred to me while I explored the various topics that interested me about this "Boss" issue. I even asked my boss, creator of PIFF Magazine, Xavier, "how can I write about being a boss during a time in my life when I feel like I am at rock bottom?" Feeling like you are at a low point in your life can have some creative drawbacks. However, I thought about it and had an epiphany.

So, the origin of the word "boss"

First of all, if anything goes wrong, it

having to hire and fire people that

comes from the Dutch word for

falls on the boss to take the blame.

you have grown to like through

"master", which is baas. Well, most

This is why bosses are so hard on their

out their employment. A boss can

would think, duh. Master = boss,

employees, since their productivity

have emotions, but mainly a boss

that's a no brainer. It is really a

can be a reflection of the actions or

has to put his company before his

simple concept to grasp. We will

inactions of their leaders. Second,

emotions and use objective logic

have many bosses in our lifetime,

implementation of action has to

to come to fair conclusions, at all

and at some point we may even

come from the boss, since it is their

times. Their livelihood is at stake.

be the boss. The latter is less likely,

company, so they have to make sure

They trust in you, the employee, to

simply because most people are

there is follow through within the

do what is asked and, hopefully, go

complacent and are satisfied with

layers of the company. Third, bosses

beyond their expectations in the

just getting by. Also, there is a lot

have the grueling job of measuring

best interest of the company.

of pressure and being a boss comes

and critiquing performance, which

with major responsibility.

is a daunting task. Think about

â&#x20AC;&#x153;While contemplating this months issue, I decided I would divert a little from my normal political rant and rave, and delve into a deeper issue.â&#x20AC;? 14

politickin' with bliss bindope

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Push yourself to have impeccable character, loyalty and integrityâ&#x20AC;? Of course, those are not the only

to do some trimming, pruning and

your all, there is no reason why

duties of a boss. But, speaking

weeding while growing any kind

you would have to be on his bad

of a general nature, you get the

of agriculture, for the sake of this

side. He is understanding and very

idea. Being a boss is hard work. I

metaphor. As painful as it can be,

down to Earth. If he sees that you

do respect bosses in all walks of

he has to do the tough job of making

are taking advantage of his baby,

life because they had to take the

sure he has a team he can rely on; a

in any way, he will definitely let

initiative to achieve that position in

hardworking core group of people

you know and let you go, if need

the hierarchy. Let's take, for example,

who will treat the magazine as if it

be. That is a tough job, but it's a

Xavier, my boss for this magazine.

were their own baby. Anyone who

position he is in because he is the

This magazine is his baby. He has

is not giving their all will be riding

boss.

grown the concept from seed to full

on the backs of people who are

blown tree and the tree has roots

actually pulling their weight. Now,

and fruits. Now with any company,

he is a very loyal person, but he

there will be politics. I noticed that

has no problem being the boss and

he had to hire and fire members of

doing the tough job of weeding out

his staff through out the years of

the real ones from the fake ones.

nurturing his business. It is common

If you show and prove and give

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 15

do you have what it takes Sure, being a boss is not as

Being a boss of your own life

common as being an employee, in

is probably the most beneficial

our capitalistic society. You would

decision you can make. It doesn't

definitely excel financially if you

cost you anything, but making

were the boss in your life. I have

conscious decisions at all times.

several friends who own their own

Constantly being aware that every

businesses, and while it is a lot of

move you make and every path

work, they are more content with the

you take, will ultimately affect your

fact that they control their destiny.

quality of life. So many people

Then, boom. If a boss is a master,

are concerned with this instant

then let's take it a step further. Do

gratification

you have what it takes to be the boss

with digital technology. People

in your life? Can you master your

don't even read anymore if it isn't

own destiny? I am not even talking

summarized in a few paragraphs.

about financially. Are you driving

We want it fast and we want it

your own vehicle, metaphorically?

now. This is problematic. Patience

A lot of people are asleep at the

is of the utmost importance, when it

wheel. They let outside influences,

comes to making healthy, conscious

like the media, celebrities, and

decisions for your life. Bosses have

those who surround them control

to have patience, or else they would

their actions, preferences and mind.

quit at the first sign of hardship.

Most decisions we make on a daily

Through adversity comes growth,

basis are controlled by a preference

and your life can bare fruit if you

through

choose to be the master of your life.

recommendation

principle,

especially

review by other people. We have to take control of our lives and decide

Do things that make you happy.

what, why and how we will live our lives.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Can you master your own destiny? I am not even talking about financially....â&#x20AC;? 16

politickin' with bliss bindope Wear clothes you like to wear, regardless of the newest trends. Be comfortable with being you. There is only one you and so many of them. Treat yourself with compassion. Nurture and baby yourself. LOVE yourself. Spend quality time with yourself. Be as authentically you, as you can be. Align yourself with likeminded,

ambitious,

unique

individuals. Push yourself to have impeccable character, loyalty and integrity. Leave a positive impact in the world, while doing what you say and putting meaning everything you do. I know I do not want to be a cardboard cut out, factory made, clone. I aim to be original. I will be the master of my life and I will

All

Artists submit tracks for V.E.N.T. Vol. 2 @ editor@piffmag.com

manifest greatness.

rates available on request

www.piffmag.com 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 17

Photographer: Jawan Winns 18

Snaps submit to: editor@piffmag.com

24 4.3 MARCH 2019 19

Photographer: Jawan Winns 20

Photographer: Jawan Winns 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 21

Photographer: Jawan Winns 22

snaps Photographer: Jawan Winns

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 23

Photographer: Jawan Winns THE SELF-LOVE 4.3 mayISSUE - the boss MARCH issue 2019 2019z 25 25

Mark J Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Photography

snaps

Mark J Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Photography 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 29

snaps

Mark J Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Photography

model manageme 32

MODEL MANAGEMENT 101 PHOTO : Trey Photos I MODEL : Vett Adams

lent

101

As a

special dedication

to our relaunch of P.I.F.F. Magazine, I will include one chapter in every issue of P.I.F.F. from my book on model management, titled, ‘Model Life’. Stick with us each issue to pick up new skills and learn the basics of managing people in the modeling industry.

PART 6 OF 10

BUILD THE PORTFOLIO

by xavier 'complex' pruE 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 33

model: Chasity Burns Cotillier Photographer: NeVaughn Brown

A modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portfolio is ultimately their resume in the industry and your job as their manager is to help them build the most impressive one possible. It is what you will rely on when performing numerous

tasks, such as landing exclusive jobs, creating firm pitches,

submitting them to be recruited by major corporate

companies, and most importantly selling their contract to help them advance to the next level in their career.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 35

Building up a solid portfolio for your models should remain as one of your top priorities throughout your entire time working with them; and should be a goal to work towards from day one. The thing that makes a portfolio so interesting is that it typically always carries the unreleased material never revealed to the public or anyone outside of the model, photographer, editor, and manager. The more photoshoots you conduct for your models, the stronger a portfolio you can create for them.

During the editing and promotional

Selecting promotional material is

being promoted in half and disperse

process following each photoshoot,

usually the easiest task for me. It's

them evenly into the last two

I divide photosets into groups of

deciding between the final two

groups; although the best practice

three: Promotional, Exclusive, and

groups that I have a little more

you can do is to set photoshoots

Portfolio. Promotional photos are

trouble in. You want the really

specifically for the three categories.

ones you plan to use to garner

rare-looking and most creative and

If you can shoot a set strictly for

attention for your model, ones you

trend-setting ones to go into the

promotion, one for exclusive, and

choose to release to the public to

portfolio; however, if you’re selling

one solely for portfolio, that’s

promote them. Exclusives are ones

material in a calendar, poster, or

golden and as I stated in Chapter

that will only be obtained through

something else, you also want very

4 (‘Arrange Photoshoots’), having

purchases and used in financial

nice ones for your exclusive photos

as diverse a portfolio as possible is

projects. Portfolio photos... well, it’s

as well. I usually settle the debate by

the differential key that can make or

self-explanatory.

splitting the number of photos not

break a model’s career chances.

MODEL MANAGEMENT 101

The portfolio will be used during

Before exposing model portfolios to

This will help ensure that the model’s

in-person interactive meetings with

anyone, be sure to have them sign

portfolio remains as confidential as

huge clients and companies that

aa non-disclosure agreement stating

possible and prevents the model’s

may be considering contracting

that they will not disclose any

unreleased material from being

your model or buying some of their

material or information relating to

compromised; so that it does not

unreleased work; which means that

the portfolio to any outside parties;

lessen your odds for placement

it needs to look professional and

unless they are purchasing such

when conducting negotiations with

immaculate. I would purchase a

material or contracting the model.

other clients.

sturdy and durable folder such as a leather close-bound booklet with shrink-wrap pages that can display photos on both sides of the pages. Pages should be 8x11” and photos should be printed in high-gloss for best visual expression. If you can find one that holds a slot for business cards and a USB flash drive, you can load up videos and audio on the drive to bring along. Separate material

into

category

sections

(lingerie, fashion, print, runway, swimsuit) and have the first page [of the portfolio] list all credits and statistics. It’s all about strengthening

The portfolio will be used during in-person interactive meetings with huge clients and companies that may be considering contracting your model or buying some of their unreleased work; which means that it needs to look professional and immaculate

As a general best practice, to help assure that a model does not jeopardize such progress as well, you should remain the only person in possession and control of a model’s portfolio – unless otherwise stated in writing – until the expiration of their contract’s term. When a model’s contract is up and if they choose not to re-sign with you for another term, you should then at that point release their portfolio to them so they can use it to plan for their next step in their career.

the model’s image.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 37

When they try to place you on the back burner, you re-emerge. When they try to keep the knowledge hidden from you, you go out and learn how to find it. When they knock you down and try to hold you back, you come back stronger. This is what a Boss does. And this is the story of Patricia CEO and how she became the Boss of her own lifestyle and career. From breaking out with MTV with her show “Is She Really Going Out With Him?” and working with some of the biggest names in the industry to being shelfed behind-the-scenes for years, Patricia CEO makes her strongest re-emergence and defines what it takes to become a Boss.

the MAKING OF A 38

photos @themodelphotog interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue

Photography by J.E. Photos

OSS

interview by xavier 'complex' pruE

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 39

"That’s where I’m at right now in my career and I feel really happy about it." - patricia ceo

COVER FEATURE PIFF MAGAZINE: Is it official that you were the first black woman on MTV’s Is She Really Going Out With Him? PATRICIA CEO: Well, it’s official. I

me and my demands are a little bit

of and I’m able to keep relationships

bigger and wider and broader and

pretty well. And I just finished talking

I want to be able to reach my fans,

to Method Man’s producer Hanz

so I do need a team now. That’s

On. I use to model for Kay Slay not

where I’m at right now in my career

too long ago and I met Hanz On, so

and I feel really happy about it.

I knew him for a while. And I told

would like to make it more official. When I tell people, they always congratulate me and tell me “they know”. To this day, the fans still get excited to meet me.

Ok, so tell the world a little bit about who you are and how you came to the point you are in your career now?

Hanz, “I wanna be a singer” and he

She pauses to giggle as if to say whatever dream I create today, I will manifest it]

Well, my name is Patricia CEO – capital CEO. Creative. Extravagant. Outstanding. And I’ve basically been modeling since I was 12. With Barbizon. And New Faces. I started working with Baby Phat and eventually went on to be a manager and an agent and everything-in-one to myself and that’s how people get to meet me. I love networking and marketing and stuff like that. I went

said, “well, I’m looking for singers...” [She pauses to giggle as if to say whatever dream I create today, I will manifest it] So…. that’s just what Patricia CEO does. I could do it for someone else too, but you know… they would have to pay me. You know… not too much… but I could do it for

That’s amazing. Sounds like you’re finally getting to a place you’ve been wanting to get to for a long time. So, when you say you go by the name Patricia CEO, what is that representing? Is it just because you’re a boss in all aspects of your life or is it deeper than that?

someone else as well and I’m really happy that I came across exactly how I look: I’m very loving and you know, I’m a cool person… down-to-earth,

cool-ass

chick.

What’s your goals and ambitions in this industry right now? Right now, I wanna put some music

to school for fashion marketing

It’s basically like I said before. I’ve

out and my own lip gloss line

and I’ve been doing pretty well for

been a manager and an agent to

and I think I’d be content for the

myself; but I do need a team now.

myself. Usually, I get gigs from every

moment.

Things are getting a little busier for

foreign place you could ever think

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 41

You’ve been all over the industry and done a little bit of everything… you did a few shows, you teamed up with Snooki from Jersey Shore and Is She Really Going Out With Him? and I already knew you were working with Kay Slay, you did a couple music videos, so…. Out of everything that you’ve embodied so far out of your career at this point, which experience has been the most memorable or meaningful one?

So, you’re now looking for a new management team?

Well, I loved my show but it didn’t

and parties and makes sure that

depict me the way I wanted. I

everything just flows right.

looked

very

friendly

every

situation and I’m actually more bossy than what they showed, but

I want anything that looks like Black Girl Magic. I want somebody that has…. Just a good relationship with the industry… somebody that understands me just as well as I understand myself. I don’t want a big team. Just about 4-7 people. Somebody who has a good ear and knows the big names in the industry and somebody who knows how to keep friendship and networking

What are you working on now as far as projects?

[at that time], I don’t think MTV was

I just did another magazine

looking for that. Like all the Love

feature right before this one,

and Hip Hop type shows and stuff

so I’m getting back on my

like that, they’ve taken my ideas,

press game. I’m with Code

but it is what it is. One time, I used

Media and they’re finding me

to work with Russell Simmons and

a sponsorship… I was doing a

I did a song with a rapper and my

podcast with DJ Dougie Fresh

song got played in Madison Square

and doing different gigs and

Garden. I wasn’t there, but my

parties and networking events.

song got played in Madison Square Garden, so that was major to me because if Jay-Z can say he sold out the Garden and you know they’re not big on hip-hop acts there, that’s an accomplishment for myself.

patricia ceo

Photography by J.E. Photos 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 43

You’ve got a few different skills… acting, modeling… you doing the music… promoting, marketing… you really are a boss… a Jacktress-of-all-trades, if you will… but, which one would you say if you had to pick one to put your whole 100% into, which one are you most passionate about?

Do you work good under pressure?

It’d be singing. I really wanna learn

My biggest fear in the industry is that

everything about singing. I love

people won’t get the message I’m

modeling and I would never leave

trying to convey with my brand, but

it for the world, but I really love

I am a fashion marketer, so maybe

singing. I really wanna make an

they will see where I’m headed with

album. I think if I could put out a

my vision because I’ll be able to

good album with a few solid songs

paint it for them in a visual way.

on it, I’d be happy.

What kind of modeling do you enjoy?

Yea, I work better under pressure… because it’s like… the lights are on, it’s goin’ be hot right on your forehead and you goin’ be like: 5… 4… 3… 2… 1…

What’s your biggest fear in this industry?

And what’s the one thing you’re looking forward to? No matter what nobody says, I

I love runway. Runway’s the best.

wanna be able to say I modeled, I

You get to show off all your heels,

acted, and I have a song out.

you get to have a good time, meet new designers, try on newclothes… I love the clothes.

Yea, I work better under pressure… because it’s like… the lights are on, it’s goin’ be hot right on your forehead and you goin’ be like: 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… 44

Photography by J.E. Photos 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 45

Boss’n Up (H s: e l u R n w O r u o Y you 1. Set tality, n e m oss own

ur eab set yo . cquir a o t y l n life ow w h o n To tru r r u ea r yo first l se is rds fo a must d ne el n o a y t r s e ey v and hat e hat th w w rules f s o e do e rdless lay th s only s p Rega o o t B e ve efuse , a tru achie and r o g T doing n i . o at rules ike d lize th onal i a feel l t e i r d t a s mu ision by tr me v a y, you game t s i l e a t h ust be t men you m l boss y not a d n m a il vision world ou w y e h w t your o f of h rest o n. rules n r visio as the w u o o y r u yo ds to regar set up n i m r perfo

Once yo u’ve mad e the dec like a Bo ision to s ss, now y tart think ou must ing alive and k e e p th those Bo a t m entality ss though music th ts flowin at motiva g . Finding tes you to do in yo do what ur life wil y o u want to l help yo in your m u keep th ind. Pers e s e th oughts onally, I that has always li a positiv s te n to music e messag because e and is that is th in s p e type of iring mindset th a t I take on as a Boss .

3. Dress Accordingly: if you don’t feel Dress the part and play the game, even in a particular that you’ve reached the point of success in, you need lane. If it’s the lane you want to be a boss yer career, to dress the part. If you’re pursuing a law . If you’re you throw on a suit to obtain the position are always an aspiring model, you ensure that you that is what rocking the finest heels and skirts because dress code models do. Whatever your lane, study the . However, and present yourself as a Boss in that lane ok to stray from remember Rule #1 too. Sometimes, it’s Boss. the norm, but that takes a bold type of

2. Mot ivat io nal Music:

4.) Get IT Righ t

Setting your o wn rules and dressing accord half the battle. ingly is only To become a B o ss , yo u must also m sure that you’r ake e focused and yo u ’v e go t your mind ri It all starts wit ght. h vision and fo cus and from all else. Witho th er e, stems ut staying focu sed on the visi could never b o n, one e a Boss becau se where there there is no pla is n o vision, n and without a plan, there is n o success because there is no action.

How?)

By Xavier “CompleX” Prue 5.) Get I t Wr i te:

Once you have a vis ion, the ne is to write xt step to out a plan becoming of action. a Boss are setting L is t y o ur objectiv out to acc e s o that you mplish and into two p then break arts: long-t th e m e rm goals a down long-term nd short-te goals are th rm g o a ls ose that yo . Your over a peri u would li od of time k e to a c leading up hieve you have to the obje establishe c ti v e d . W your long-t hen down into erm goals, small-term break thos goals in w e hich you c steps into a n c re a te your long-t small erm goals.

: h g u o r h T w o ll o 6.) Act ion/ F

dividual is -minded in ss o B a f o om efinition tes a Boss fr ra a p The final d se t a g th n or one key thin wn as actio o n k is that there is y e k that ns, person and als and visio o g e v a h the average le peop ion. ugh. Many no progress is re e follow-thro th , action h on there is no llow-throug fo s y a but where lw a and s know this nly cling to True Bosse e slackers o th s a re e h ions, w Up! their ambit Keep Boss’n s. se u c x e ideas and

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 47

16 bar challenge 48

16 bar challenge

"Tap In": Yeah WE CAN TALK - WE CAN TALK we can talk, But I MUCH RATHER MAKE A

Composed & produced by: Primadona, Co- producer : King Spilly Productions, Engineer: Alphonso BoutireI Insight to “Tap In” First thing first I would like to give a shoutout to PIFF Magazine for the opportunity to be able to share my story and passion for music. The classic remake of the R&B singer Ginuwine “Differences” track was inspired by not only the smooth original track itself, but my girlfriend Karley. That’s where the sexiness came in and how “Tap In” started. Thinking about my girlfriend hitting my line, aka tapping in, and how she changed my life too in so many ways for the better! Which really helped me build the chorus while keeping some of the original content involved as well. I am a 90’s baby so I witnessed how the R&B music genre changed from then and now so it was a must make this remake masterpiece!

MOVE Got my heart racing , Yeah that’s only something you can do And you can act - you can act, you can act, you can act like you don’t want it Want it too You throw it back -you throw it back, I’m’a catch dat You throw it back you throw it back , I’m’a catch dat Ouuu Don’t speak about it , be about it bout it Man I think you bout it bout it, No limits to the things we do Smile say she like Touch feel so nice / How bout we smoke this lime lite, We be -we be all night/ Yeah we be we be ,all night So wet like a surfboard, bunch of loud packs -jet skis and love joints Something we can vibe to , Then eventually reach a f*k point Say you love me , But you love it more yeah Gorge Gervin the way I tongue roll yeah Dare devil, Snacthin your soul yeah Giving you more than you asking, Face from the back end Screaming sorry ms Jackson, running and telling your best friend Taught your ass a lesson, had you tapping out soon as you tap in -Tap in

4.3 april 2019 49

50 50

4.3 MARCH 2019

THE HUSTLE OF

NIPSEY

HUSSLE

by ES Writer

Saying that the assassination of Ermias Asghedom, best known as Nipsey Hussle, was "tragic" would be the biggest understatement of all understatements. Would be the most obvious statement one could make, it'd force Captain Obvious to change his name. Besides, what assassination isn't tragic? I don't want to focus on the death of rapper, actor, entrepreneur and father, Nipsey Hussle. I want to focus on the many inspiring business moves and opportunities he helped create for his community and for us all.

(continued on page 52 ď ľ

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 51



continued from page 51

Investing

Acting

Brand Ambassador

Lots of rapper's boast about their

I knew Hussle did some acting in

In May of 2018, Nipsey Hussle was

investments. Some use the excuse of

his dramatic music videos, but his

named Puma's Brand Ambassador

"investing" to buy useless shit. Nipsey

acting aspirations were something

for Puma's shoe and clothing brand.

Hussle wasn't one of them. Hussle

new to me. Nipsey had a cameo

Hussle's collab with Puma called

invested in the Marathon Agency. A

in Bone Thug's autobiographical

"The California" was an exclusive

digital marketing agency co-founded

film, "I Tried." He had a small role

clothing line that started to launch

by Karen Civil and Jorge Pinche.

in the movie "Caged Animal" acting

in Hussle's Marathon Clothing store.

Steve Carless, head of Marathon

alongside with Ving Rhames, Gillie

Another

Agency considered Nipsey Hussle

Da Kid and Robert Patrick. Nipsey

entrepreneurs that their visions can

a "silent partner" due to Hussle's

Hussle was offered the role in

and will come to fruition as long

periodic six figure investments in

playing Snoop Dogg in "Straight

as they continue to hustle and stay

the business to help the start-up's

Outta Compton" but turned it down

dedicated.

operation cost. Nipsey Hussle also

because he wanted to be his own

invested in cryptocurrency and if

man in the acting world much like

you're interested in fashion, Nipsey

he was in the rap world. Yet another

STEM Opportunity

Hussle owns a clothing store called

noble act from the King that set him

Science, technology, [engineering],

"Marathon Clothing" in California.

apart from his rap peers.

and mathematics is what STEM

move

showing

young

Definitely one of the stops I plan

stands for, for anyone wondering.

on making whenever I visit Cali.

And Nipsey was a proud supporter

Not only to support the brand or

 creating STEM opportunities for the

a black owned business, but to let

inner-city youth. Nipsey understood

the people know how much Nipsey

growing up in the hood unfortunately

Hussle meant to me as a black man.

meant lack of opportunity and resources. As forward-thinking as he was Nip knew creating a space and resource for inner-city kids to get into the STEM field was important for the future.

nipsey hussle Real Estate Nipsey Hussle didn't just create opportunities for the youth or invested in black owned businesses in his neighborhood, he wanted to own the neighborhood and have black people own 100% if their neighborhood's. Vector 90, located in Crenshaw District of Los Angeles was a hub for STEM opportunist to go and work, it also was where Hussle provided co-working spaces. Studios and other places of business for entrepreneurs to rent via daily and monthly passes or for shortterm leasing of private offices and

Unrelated to real estate, Hussle is

custom-made space. Co-working

one of the very few music artists

spaces are projected to be the new

to own their masters. To simply

and best wave for self-starters and

put it, Hussle was a businessman

small business owners to get their

with incredible vision, drive and

business started from the ground

a heart of gold. This is why he is

up. Nipsey took note of that and

beloved and missed by many who

created a lane once again for himself

looked at him as more than "just a

and for people in his neighborhood

rapper." That also happens to be the

to flourish. According to Billboard

reason why he is admired by those

Nipsey Hussle teamed up with

who were unfamiliar with

DJ Khaled and other investors to

Nipsey Hussle.

acquire leasehold of the Viceroy Santa Monica Hotel. A 162-room beach hotel in Florida.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 53

piff review danileigh - the plan 54

piff review

DaniLeigh has come a long ways since signing with Def Jam Records in 2017. Originally discovered by Prince in 2013, this beautiful Dominican songstress has solidified her mark in the industry as an original and conceptual choreographer as well as a dynamic and passionate music artist; stuck in the realm between gritty street hip-hop, trap, R&B, and soft love songs full of swag. Following up her debut with her second album to release on a major label, “The Plan” comes as the perfect balance between the old 90’s sound we miss and crave so much and the new wave that’s moving today’s generation. She’s got the sauce and the secret recipe, so even though this review comes 4 months after the project’s release, we felt that it was only right we give it the official P.I.F.F. Review stamp.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 55

The Plan

– A motivational song

with a slow melodic knock over a soft snare, ‘The Plan’ shows just where Dani’s mind is at when it comes to her grind. It’s apparent in the opening line: “Tell me one thing: do you love somebody?/ Get them dolla signs before you trust somebody.../” She goes further to say that even though she may be interested in dating, her grind and her money comes first and she refuses to let anyone disrupt her from sticking to the plan. It comes as the right inspiration to the everyday hustla trying to avoid daily distraction, especially

when

comes

relationships in the entertainment industry.

piff review Can’t Relate

is that melody to set

Don’t Mean Nothin’ – She exposes

Nahmir and YG, she sons the lames

the mood right with that special

the superficial goals that most

and the weirdos who can’t get on

someone.

smooth

materialistic people strive to and

her level and can’t relate to where

romantic tone that softens the air

reminds us that it all don’t mean

she’s at in her life. She sets the

around you, it’s short-lived (only

nothin’, but hard work. She swags

tone right off the rip, starting the

1:37), but it’s the perfect slow

on this point as she reminisces on

song with a laugh as she states,

song to get the foreplay started.

her broke days before stardom: “I

– Featuring YBN

Cruz – This A

soft

and

“too broke for me, n!**#!” A slow

was waitin’ on my taxes, now I’m

bongo bass dripping over a deep

Do It To Me

– She switches up

taxin’ for a verse.../ ain’t it funny

tremble, she gets disrespectful as

the style for this love song and shows

how it works?”/ But, even though it

soon as she lays into the first verse:

her soft side that even though she’s

don’t mean nothin’, don’t think that

“Got the blunt rolled for me when

a tough Dominican woman with an

means she gonna easily part with

I get out the booth./ Last summer,

edge, she still craves time, attention,

her achievements and accolades

was friends, was cool, now I ain’t

and TLC from that special person in

because just when you thought so

playin’ with you./ Started looking,

her life. She bears all and lets her

and you tried it, she solidifies her

asking questions, I ain’t got no time

guard down to a playful bump as she

ambition, saying, “old friends come

to waste./ Sweating me like that ass

explains why love has got her nose

around wanna piece of the pie, but

been on Ex all day..../”

wide-open and why she’s so happy to

ain’t help cook nothin...”/

be where she’s at in her relationship.

Be Yourself – In a generation full

It’s a romance that all the money in

of copycats, mimics, and trend-

the world can’t buy; one consisting

followers, DaniLeigh reminds you

of deep conversations that eases her

to be yourself and you’ll get further

heart and causes her to lose her mind

in your personal agendas than

when they’re not together. A sound

following the crowd. She engraves

reminiscent of Aaliyah in the mid-

her signature on the message, saying:

90's, it’s a feeling she can’t ignore and

“I came as myself.../ I am one-of-a-

she wants the world to know it!

kind,/ designed/ like nobody else./” Cruz – This is that melody to set the mood right with that special someone.

soft

and

smooth

romantic tone that softens the air around you, it’s short-lived (only 1:37), but it’s the perfect slow song to get the foreplay started.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 57

Family Only

–

This

the

Yo No Se –

She gets in touch with

Lil Bebe -

One of the toughest

motivational anthem for the family.

her Dominican roots on ‘Yo No

anthems to drop in 2018, ‘Lil Bebe’

It’s poetry in motion as she lays

Se’, a Spanish song which means

is an up-tempo track mixed with a

down her point over a slow drum

“I Don’t Know” and was written to

little trap-sound, some R&B, some

tempo that demands respect. She

explain the complexities between a

hip-hop, and heavy drum kicks and

shouts out the ones closest to her

male and a female’s perspective in

high-snares over a light saxophone

and the guidance they’ve given her

a relationship. Featuring Bill$, she

and a piano that gives an audio visual

throughout her life and reminds

cries out in confusion as to why she

of a pendulum swinging between a

everyone that nobody is going to

and her boyfriend were once so in

blend of melodies all come together

have her back the way the family

love and spending money together

for the perfect upgrade. In fact,

does.

and holding each other down like

the song is about upgrading your

Kanye and Kim. Bill$, however

partner in a relationship because if

Blue Chips – Playing with falsettos

paints the picture from a different

she’s winning, she wants her partner

and synthesized vocals, DaniLeigh

view, showing how the boyfriend

to win too! She’s telling you to come

lets her swag drip on a track where

starts to only see her as using him

and level up with her before you

she lets her cocky flow come out

for his money or when she needs

miss your chance!

full-force and displays the value

something from him. Neither one

she’s bringing to this hip-hop/ R&B

of them knows what’s the other’s

game. A metaphor to high-valued

intentions and this is what happens

poker chips, she paints the image of

in relationships sometimes, so Dani

a boss-lady who sets her own rules,

just says, “Yo No Se”. I don’t know

lives how she wants, and knows her

either, ma, but I love the smooth

worth.

and happy sound it brings to your heart as you try to figure out your

Easy – On ‘Easy’,

she expresses

own relationships.

that there’s no need to rush in love; that the best times come easy if you just take your time, catch a vibe, and relax your mind. Dani knows what she wants in life and she knows that if they just “Chill like a sundae”, they’ll be just fine and get there in time; but there’s no need to act thirsty, just take it easy because when the vibe is right, it’ll happen naturally...

I Do It 4

Bringing the album

Lil Bebe Remix

–

Dani turns

towards a close, she takes the time

hersong ‘Lil Bebe’ into a double-

to explain why she does her music

smash hit and maximizes the value

and why she put together her entire

of it by adding Lil Baby to the remix.

movement. She states that it was

Turning a dream into reality, she

bigger than just her and in the

originally wrote the song with Lil

bigger picture, she did it for her

Baby in mind for the remix, and she

squad, her family, her city, her day

actually pulled it together. He jumps

ones, and all of the young girls and

on the track with a swag-filled

others out there looking up to her

8-bars full of finesse, as he shows

in inspiration. As she says, “I’m the

why dealing with him will always

G.O.A.T./ What can I say, they mad

be an upgrade and he presents

I know.../” And yes, she admits that

the image of what a boss should

of course, she did it for the money,

live like. Together, these two are a

too, but the bigger purpose was to

dynamic duo on this track and in

show her community and those

the sense of upgrading each other

looking up to her that they could

as each other’s “Lil Bebe”, these two

achieve goals that may have once

artists have struck gold with this hit

seemed unattainable to people

and orchestrated a clean execution

coming from where she’s coming

of artistic creativity and sound.

from. The most important part, she continues to stress throughout

Rating: 10/ 10

the song, is that she had to always remember to thank “The Man” who blessed her with all of her success.

4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 59

Fear of love by anthony heath

From afar I observe Catching glimpses when I can I Dear not approach Or let my true intentions known Instead, I digress Worst yet, I regress Choosing to recluse Choosing safety over chance Choosing to hide from the future While Remaining forever stuck in the past But you my love, you are here, and you are now That is where I truly want to be Dear I shed this veil of fear Dear I emerge from my chrysalis Adorned with all the beauty, all the grace, and all the strength that is you That is love I think the choice is obvious So, I turn to self, and say yes I say yes, I say yes to me Because I am Love.

poetry

To conquer fear, we must Experience that which we fear I feared heights As Gravity took control My rapid descent from 14,000 feet above liberated me As I swirled freely in mid air I was at peace Freedom surrounded m As I embraced and relished in nature My renewed sense of faith seduced me That moment when I stood still in open air It was really about my mindset What I feared the most Stopped me from living my best life I became invincible I regained my wings

by Be Bold Toya 4.3 may - the boss issue 2019 61

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4.3 MARCH 2019 63

the boss issue