PIFF POSITIVE INFLUENCE FOR THE FUTURE
Issue 4.2 I march 2019
r
THE SELF LOVE
ISSUE featuring
LA KEY model management 101 with
xavier darnell politickin with bliss bindope plus: how to land a model gig - A Boogie - 16 bar challenge - snaps - piff poetry
stories
10
14
38
The only model in P.I.F.F. Magazine
Half-way through the Model Life
A Boogie’s latest release has the
history to grace a second cover
series, this month’s subject is on
charts going stupid and the girls
spread feature, we catch up on
how to land modeling gigs and jobs
drooling again. Once again, P.I.F.F.
the vibe with LA Key and get an
and how to succeed in securing
has your monthly P.I.F.F. Review...
inside scoop into the progress of
contracts and new clients for the
this month? A Boogie up to bat.
the process of her grind, how she
model (s) you manage.
chooses to find time to self-love and self-care, and how she got the name LA Key and just what that key represents... it’s an interview you don’t wanna miss.
4
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
departments editorial Positive Influence for the future editors note
10
Politickin' with Bliss Bindope
12
modelling Snaps
18
MODEL life
32
cover feature Back & Stronger Than Ever LA Key Interview
38
entertainment 16 Bar Challenge
47
PIFF poetry
P.i.F.F. review A Boogie wit da Hoodie’s SZN
64
album gets a PIFF checkover
on the cover LA KEY page 38 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019
5
EAST COAST KILLA BEEZ
february 2019 Founding Editor
Bloggers
Graphic Designer
Xavier “CompleX” Prue
Bliss Bindope
Martin ‘Lab’ Ridgway
Assistant Editor
Writers
Contributors
Ri Royal
Malissa Hurry
LA Key
TLKC
East Coast Killa Beez
Legal Consultant
Taj Thomas
Legal Mobb Entertainment
Malissa Hurry
Xavier Prue
Beautiful & Beyond Entertainment
ES Writer
Undadawg Entertainment
Public Relations & Operations Manager
Photographers
EXG Photos
Ana “MzGotti” Montes
NeVaughn Brown
Heather “Honeydip” Henry
Edward “Trey Photo” Louis Smith
Vett Adams
Brand Ambassador
Emily X. Gore [EXG Photos]
Joseph Bills
Noyz Armstrong
Katie Grace
Whitt Tucker
Whitney Collings
Lizzy Page
Trey Photo
Promotions Manager Brenda “Mzz BK” Lowery
Dionne Baldwin
Music Review Manager Xavier “CompleX” Prue
Associate Director, xsxsContent Development
Poetry Manager
Taj “Real Talk” Thomas
Be Bold Toya
E-mail: editor@piffmag.com Twitter: @piffmag
Facebook: facebook.com/piffmagz Instagram: @piffmag
8
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
the self love issue
issue 4.2
Contact us to get involved with P.I.F.F.
www.piffmag.com 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019
9
Valentine’s Day 2019. It seems that every Valentine’s Day, we focus on romance and being boo’d up like Ella Mae. But, what about self-love? Do we even know what that is? I grew up without my parents and the loneliness of such an empty void led me to having a fear of being alone and seeking attention and love from anyone who would give it to me. It started with me acting out and cutting up in school and getting in trouble; which eventually led to me getting involved in the street life as I sought the attention in the neighborhood OG’s. As I grew up in this mentality, it also led me into several toxic relationships developed out of impulse, lust, desire, and desperation.
10
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
editor’s note
positive influence for the future Coming out of an extremely toxic 8
We’ve packed this issue with several
It’s been a long journey and you’ve
year relationship in 2016, I spent the
articles on how to find methods for
been riding faithfully with us from
last few years of my life on a spiritual
self-love and self-care, for those of
day one, but we have so many
journey and a personal study of the
you who may be wondering just
better places we want to take you
energy within the universe. One thing
how can you get started. It’s actually
with us, so continue to grow with
I’ve come to learn is that we must
pretty fun, tbh.
us and support our movement and
love ourselves fully and foremost
the culture of underground, original,
before we can begin to attempt to
Also, we reunited with LA Key, the
love others - even our own children.
original cover model from P.I.F.F.
and independent hip-hop.
Magazine issue 1.4 and the first and
For more info, details, and updates,
What it comes down to is simple:
only model so far in P.I.F.F. history
hit the website at:
until you work out the personal
to ever grace two P.I.F.F. covers. Her
www.piffmag.com
issues inside of you, you will always
interview is definitely litty.
encounter the same problems and
I love all of our supporters! Peace!
situations over and over again... such
Make sure you check out our P.I.F.F.
things will continue to happen, pop
Review on A Boogie wit da Hoodie’s
up, and occur until you learn how to
latest release; and make sure you
address them in your life and these
subscribe today and tell a friend to
are elements of loving yourself.
tell a friend about Positive Influence
For the Future Magazine.
Xavier “COMPLEX” Prue Editor-in-Chief
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 11 11
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POLITICKIN’ with Bliss Bindope
THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 13
SELF-CARE 101: Music by BLISS BINDOPE
Had a long day? Run the epsom salt bath and put on some D’angelo or Maxwell. Get into it with your significant other? Blast some gangsta rap. Feelin’ romantic? Throw on some Jill Scott or Keith Sweat. Cleaning the house? I blast nothing but rock music. The point is, music is known to relieve stress. I know that certain music will resonate with the current mood that I have, and therefore, balance out my uneven emotions. We’ve all heard about how playing classical music for our youth is said to raise their IQ. But how about hip hop?
My love affair with hip hop has been over 20 years long, and believe me, she has gotten me through an insane amount of emotional roller coasters.
Self-care is a billion dollar industry.
Music can spark a memory of
From nutrition, to aromatherapy, to
nostalgia that can transport you to
facial creams and yes, even music.
another time, thus taking you out of
There are self-help guru’s and social
your present issues and into a time
media mentors, but music has
of when you were carefree. For
never failed me. Music is the first
instance,
thing I turn to when I am feeling
me of Hawaii, and my grandmother
down, angry, or even just want to
who really would not allow any
remember good times.
other
“Music, once admitted to the soul, becomes a sort of spirit, and never dies.” - Edward Bulwer Lytton 14
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
reggae music reminds
music
besides
Hawaiian,
country or Christian music in her car. That was, until
she heard
reggae music, and finally we could resonate together. Nineties Mariah Carey
and Whitney Houston
reminds me of my mother, who would blast music and sing loudly with a brush in her hands.
politickin' with bliss bindope
“Music is the moonlight in the gloomy night of life.” When people we love are no longer here, music seems to
bookmark
a time in history where we shared special times together. It keeps our ancestors alive in our memories forever. My mother bought me my first little boombox with a CD player when we were homeless, and bought me my first CD, which was All-4-One. Even
though we
“Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.” - Kahlil Gibran
Whether I am creating or listening to music, hip hop has always been my therapist. I can take out my aggression and stress on the microphone or blast my pain away on loud speakers. Either way, hip hop has healed me in so many ways. Whenever I’m not feeling too confident, I play “Brown Skin Lady”, by Black Star. What
were living in the park, music made
an amazing song. I have always
me feel like I was at home, and no
felt that there was too much lust
matter the situation, the radio kept
and not enough love and respect
me positive through the roughest of
for women in hip hop music.
times.
This song breaks down those stereotypes and can really make a woman feel beautiful.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 15
self care 101: music When I don’t feel strong, I play “All
As a musician, I like to use
That I Got is you”, by Ghostface
the saying that music is my “heArt
Killah. That song reminds me of the
on wax.” I put my everything into
rough times in life, that everyone
the music I create and I bare my
faces, and that really we can make
soul with every lyric. I wear my
it through anything if we have the
heart on my sleeve and my music
right people by our side. When
is the tattoo that covers the scars.
I feel mad at the world, I like to
Self-care consists of therapy too and
play “Retalliation” by Jedi Mind
making music is a form of therapy
Tricks. It features a sample by my
for me. In essence, therapy is just
favorite rapper, Killah Priest. He
talking things out. When we keep
says, “I’ll leave the blood spillin’ in
things bottled inside, we tend to
the streets.” It really sets the tone
explode on everyone around us.
when I hate the world. When I am
Any exertion of that toxic, negative
fighting with a significant other or
energy built up is a way to channel
even dealing with a break up, I like
that hurt into something that could
to play either “Break Ups To Make
potentially heal others. It then
ups” by Method Man, or “Thug
becomes a cypher; a full circle of
Love Story,” by Action Bronson.
listening to other artist’s war stories,
Both songs are brutally honest
then healing, and then sharing my
windows into the emotional world
war stories, while healing myself
of relationships. It definitely helps
and, hopefully, others. Therefore,
when we know that artists, we look
creating music helps me to release
up to, go through the same things
my pain into the universe, while
that we go through. Life is all about
bringing peace back into my heart.
frequency and resonance. When
Even writing poetry, which hip
we resonate with the world around
hop is partially composed of, is
us, we feel balanced and at peace.
therapeutic.
“Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart...” - Pablo Casals 16
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
politickin' with bliss bindope “My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by musicwhen sick and weary.” - Martin Luther Self-care begins with music, for me. I might not eat all day if I am in emotional turmoil, but music seems to fill my cup to full. One of the
advertise with
most legendary reggae artists, Bob Marley once said, “one good thing ‘bout music, when it hits you feel no pain.” He knew, that even through all the trauma we face in our day to day lives, music heals your pain. Music is magical. It is an artistry that transcends cultures, language barriers, and international borders. We share music like we share food, meaning we share our pain like we
rates available on request
share our healing. The power of music has been telling stories and healing wounded souls since the first note was sung. So, put on your favorite artist, lay back, and see through their eyes, so that you may
www.piffmag.com
dry the tears in yours. Peace
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 17
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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Snaps submit to: editor@piffmag.com
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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
snaps
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24 Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved. 24
THE SELF-LOVE 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE ISSUE MARCH MARCH2019 2019 25 25
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Copyright © 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
snaps
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model manageme 32
Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
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 5 OF 10
LAND A GIG
by xavier 'complex' pru 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 33
There are constantly several modeling jobs, gigs, shows, and photoshoots going on at all times in the industry, 365 days a year. In all my years of model management experience, I have not gone more than a week without finding a gig for at least one
of my models, be it big or small. The key is finding them and then landing a successful submission.
I won’t lie to you or exaggerate reality – if you’re set on searching fora gig in a small or unpopular area, your chances are going to be slim to none. Most of the action in model life will occur only in the major industrial cities; areas such as New York, Boston, Florida, Atlanta, the DMV, Texas, the Carolinas, Chicago, and California. Occasionally, however, projects may pop up in small areas as well.
Your job as a manager is to keep your eyes peeled for all opportunities.
Online
searches
will provide majority of available
and open ones. Checking through
newspapers, magazines, and other relative sources such as subscriber
lists and newsletters will also help. Your best ones though, will
come through the grapevine of
34
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Model: Honeydip
your network community so it
the more informed you’ll be and
event, or attending a party or
relationships
For this reason, it’s important to
– while it won’t put money in
is essential you maintain great with
industry
professionals. Be sure to connect
via social media with as many
casting agents and photographers
– even other model managers – too; and become a member of any
and all modeling groups you can.
The more connected you become,
up to date on the latest events.
keep in mind that while your top
priority is finding paid gigs, you should also be open to taking on
free projects as well. Helping a beginning photographer out by
other modeling-related event your pocket right that moment, it will help you build more
valuable connections that may pay off in a major way later on down the road.
offering them a free photoshoot,
doing a nonprofit community
Continued overleaf
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 35
I
cannot
express
enough
initiating any contact with the caster
that fit the criteria to the same
how essential it is to develop as
or event manager, it is important
gigs, as this will increase your ads
many various photoshoots for your
to read – and then reread – all the
of having one of them land a spot.
models as possible. During the job
guidelines and ensure you have
Also, it is important to keep in mind
submission process is where they
a solid and firm understanding of
that you – and your models – are
become crucially important. Unless
what they entail. In some cases,
in this to make money. Therefore,
you’re dealing with a familiar source
there will be an actual application to
before submitting to a gig, find out
who’s requested your services or a
fill out, usually with an attachment
if you can just how much the job is
specific model of yours or a model
link to load digital copies of photos,
paying first. If you have a model in
is working with a repeat client who
videos, and/ or audio. Other cases,
Connecticut, it doesn’t make sense
has worked with your model before,
it may be just an e-mail address
to spend $400 to travel to Florida
there will most likely always be a submission process and that process will - without a doubt – have specific strict guidelines. Creating a submission can be very similar to applying for a job. In fact, that’s exactly what it is – a model seeking to be employed for a project, gig, or job; and just as in a job application, failure to follow submission guidelines can void your application entry. Also, always remember that your model is only one amongst countless others
for a job that’s paying $450 - $500.
Before sending in a submission or initiating any contact with the caster or event manager, it is important to read – and then reread – all the guidelines and ensure you have a solid and firm understanding of what they entail.
vying for the same target and just as
The travel fees will deplete most of the payout, without configuring other things such as food and other expenses. However, to spend $100 to travel to NY for a similar gig? Now, that makes sense. An exception to this perspective though, is if the job is for a major company or headed by a major name, say Tyra Banks. An opportunity so major would then be well worth the loss or shortcoming, as it will build bridges and open
in seeking employment, they’ll want
for you to send material and some,
to know what separates your model
you may need to call someone and
from the million others out there and
succeed in a phone negotiation and
what makes them so special that they
find out more details before they
submission for a model to a gig, I
should be chosen?
provide you with submission info.
recommend you always try to find a
In any case, one thing I suggest
contact person to connect with and
Before sending in a submission or
is that whenever it is allowed, you
send them a personal professional
submit as many of your models
letter in addition. You won’t always
36
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
huge futuristic doors of opportunity. Any time you make a
be able to, but whenever possible,
a model; it doesn’t usually work out
build up a repertoire with them and
to your benefit if you’re the one
keep consistent contact with them
making the submission request to
payments is I do payouts for all my
throughout the entire process from
a gig open to hundreds of models.
models only once a month and it
submission to the day of the job.
Also, it’s not a bad idea to every
accounts for all paid jobs completed
Even if your models are ultimately
now-and-then pack up a group
during the previous month. I also
denied, you can thank them and
of your models and just g§vo hit
hold back the first month’s check
ask them to keep you in mind
up a major city in-person to see
until their first 30 days with the
How I handle my model
and updated on any future events. You’ve just added a new person
When dealing with major corporations or agents who’ve reached out to me requesting specific models for gigs, I always ask what expenses they’re willing to cover for the model.
to your network of contacts and if you’ve made a good impression, with any luck, your next submission with them may be a whole lot easier.
When dealing with major
corporations
or
agents
who’ve
what kinds of connections you can
company. That way, when their
reached out to me requesting
make and events you can discover.
contract expires, they’ll have one
specific models for gigs, I always
Sometimes, the best gigs are not
more final cut coming their way.
ask what expenses they’re willing to
posted online and found only
Along with each check, I provide a
cover for the model. For instance,
through real-world interaction.
detailed account ledger that displays
a producer of hip-hop videos once
all fees and expenses that have
requested a model of mine to do
When it comes to receiving
been deducted from their pay. This
a one-week shoot for a video with
money from gigs and paying your
can include travel fees, hotel fees,
a major artist. I politely requested they cover expenses in addition to the job and they covered her plane and hotel in addition to her payout. You won’t always get this, but if they want your model bad enough, they may; and it never hurts to ask – worst they can say is no. Remember though, this is really only beneficial to you when someone is demanding
models, you must decide how best
to handle this. You may choose to pay them directly per each job or
clothing costs, makeup costs, food/ drink, and manager or agent/ scout commissions.
during payout intervals. I choose to go with intervals because it
makes it much easier and more
manageable and also it will put a much more satisfied smile on your
model’s face when they receive a larger lump sum of income.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 37
LA KEY
BACK AND STRONGER
THAN EVER
photos @themodelphotog interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue
38
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Day-one P.I.F.F. supporters remember LA Key gracing the cover of issue 1.4 during our breakout era. Six years later, this incredible woman is still doing her thing and in fact, is taking even bolder steps these days and making stronger moves. Given our self-love issue, we couldn’t think of anyone better to bless our cover this issue than someone who is the example of self-love.
We thought it was only right we caught up with this beauty and checked in to see the latest updates in her life. From starting out her acting career on BET’s Girlfriends to landing her own pilots and branding herself, this is an interview you don’t want to miss.
THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019
39
"There is no success if you don’t take care of yourself" - LA Key
COVER FEATURE PIFF: You were one of P.I.F.F.’s original cover models 6 years ago. What’s changed since then to now as far as your grind and everything?
What are you working on these days?
film project as me starring on my
No, I didn’t feel like I made it yet
LA Key: So, a lot has changed since
own show.
and I think I won’t ever feel like
then. Same grind, but being more intentional about pursuing purpose, more so. Purpose over popularity.
I am going back into the studio and also working on my own feature
When you reached that point did you feel like, ‘This is it! I made it! I’m here. I actually got it!’ ?
that until - to be honest - until
You actually started on the show “Girlfriends” right?
my network is like 500 million dollars. That’s when I’ll feel
Correct, that was my first feature
accomplished. To each their own,
in 2004 and that was the craziest
but until my voice is everywhere,
experience I’ve ever seen. I go from
I’m heard everywhere, you see
watching the tv shows to one day
me everywhere, I’m affecting
walking through the studios. That
people, and inspiring people to
It could be either LA Key or L.A.
was my first time being on a set. It
reach their purpose, you see lives
Key, but it’s still the same spelling.
was so real. I was looking at Tracee
being changed like, “If she can
My name is Lakithia and so that’s
Ellis, and it’s so funny I just saw her
do it, I can do it.”, you see people
just the short abbreviation of my
about 2 weeks ago on “Blackish” in
going after their purpose, taking
name. What’s so funny is I was
person. Back then, when I first had
their limits off of themselves, and
in the studio with my producer
started, I wasn’t as familiar with
obtaining what it is they feel is their
last year and he was like, “I know
being around entertainers just that
purpose... once it gets to that place,
So, the name LA Key… what does it represent and what makes you feel you’re the key? The key to what?
Lakithia is your real name, but as at rapper, you got to have a rap name. For your first name, La’ Key, that’s you having the key to your destiny.” You know, I’m on the West coast. I’m in Los Angeles. So, it has so
I will feel like I made it.
When you reached that point did you feel like, ‘This is it! I made it! I’m here. I actually got it!?
many different perspectives. It’s the key to having my destiny and my
freely like I am now. Back then, in
purpose.
2004, that was the beginning of me being on the Hollywood stages and then that becoming like a way of life.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 41
Tell me a little bit about your show “Grownish”.
to college. Season 1 was really good. We just got the word and got picked up for season 3 already
music is available.
So, for LA Key, what is it like everyday of your life? How do you take time to show yourself self-love and self-care admist the daily chaos and commotion?
It’s about college students trying
because the ratings are so high
to be grown. Yarah is actually the
right now and [the fans] want more.
daughter of Tracee Ellis, on the
So, Yarah is a college student in
show, and this show is a spin off of
real life and she’s coming back this
“Blackish” about her going away
year; quicker than what we thought
I’m more of a home body by nature.
because they didn’t know this show
The number one thing I love is
was getting picked up again. So,
going to the spa, treating myself,
people are loving it. That’s going
and getting massages. Things of
good.
that nature. I really like to invest in
Where are you at right now these days, music-wise?
my own time. Even though I love working and grinding, I don’t over feel not to take care of myself. I
I have a new sound actually. If you
think it’s essential. I feel like self-
see the most recent song I did,
love is very important. Even though
“Money Magnet” and there’s a
you work hard, you also want to
video up of me. My actual single
take care of yourself. You can’t
that is coming is totally different.
be so caught up in work that you
I’m singing on it. I grew up singing.
forget to love yourself; take care
It’s more of a popular sound. Not
of yourself; eat right. I’m actually
necessarily a hip-hop sound. It’s
vegan now, so my diet is different.
musical. It’s not just straight hip-
Diet is important because health is
hop right now. I’m not trying to just
wealth. There is no success if you
be a hip-hop artist. I grew up in
do not take care of yourself. Loving
different sounds of music. Hip-hop
yourself is eating right, taking care
sort of places you in a bubble. So,
of your mind, body, and soul, in
by listening to “Money Magnet”,
the midst of pursuing your dreams
you get a feel of where I’m taking
and your vision. It’s essential. I
things and you can download it on
don’t need anything stopping me or
iTunes and every platform where
slowing me down.
42 © 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved. 42
LA KEY How do you keep yourself on guard from certain distractions or negative energy? What do you do to stay focused? It’s important to be in tune with yourself, your environment, and the type of things that you allow into your environment. When you’re in tune and aligned with yourself, it’s not hard to catch a vibe or bad §. You can feel that. When your aligned and your energy is pure and good, anything that is off, you pretty much recognize it.
What would you say has been your most memorable experience? What has been impactful to me is meeting my pastor. He’s one of my top influences right now. He just inspires me. He has a pure heart and he’s just an outstanding leader. I’m drawn to people that are about doing right by people and have moral values and integrity. I’ve
Everything
seen
career
in
and
my the
entertainment, it’s cool, but it’s
nothing
like having that perspective on what’s important in life for real.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 43
What did you think about the government shut down?
my book and even now, not just allowing anything to come out of my mouth. Using my mouth to speak
For the people who have never tried self-love, how can I start and be open minded to it and see how it can change my life?
It’s crazy. A lot of people probably
life into people and situations. One
don’t believe in the stuff I believe
of my goals is to teach people about
in, but it talks about times like this.
self-love. Releasing yourself from
I don’t think it should be something
toxic relationships and releasing
Here’s the thing: if you don’t love
unlearned. All we can do is pray.
yourself
friendships.
yourself, who is going to love you?
When you love yourself at a certain
You can’t depend on people to love
level, you don’t allow people push
you the way you’re supposed to
you any type of way. You learn to
love yourself. You’re supposed to
walk away. You’re better off being
be your number one supporter, fan,
alone than being used, under loved,
and everything. If no one else wants
What advice would you give to young girls looking at you as a role model? My advice would be to be purpose
from
bad
driven. Everything is revolved
to see you win in life, you have to
around that. live your life. You
want yourself to win. You have to
have kids out here chasing fame, being opportunists, chasing money, and all the wrong things. But, like I said in my video for Purpose Over Popularity, when you pursue purpose, money, fame, wealth, and all those things, you will acquire it. It will come with it. You don’t
You’re supposed to be your number one supporter, fan, and everything.
gotta pursue the fame. Be purpose driven.
What is your purpose of LA Key?
be behind yourself. When God gave us this body and created us, He created us to love ourselves first. People think they’re loving other people, but you can’t even love another if you don’t love yourself first. You have to fall in love with who you are, what you bring to the table, your flaws, accept yourself for
and unappreciated. If you have
the good and the bad. There’s no
patience and recognize that good
perfect people.
things come to people who wait. Desperation attracts the wrong
Any last words to the readers?
I feel like God created me to change
type of people and energy to you.
Be on the lookout for the music,
the world and He gave me a voice
Do something that’s going to add
books, and also leading §roles.
to use that voice to be effective
to your life. Celebrate yourself! You
Expect more from LA Key. ■
to help other people to find their
don’t need a significant other at that
purpose. I feel like He also created
time. They will be sent to you when
me for the art. I naturally flow in
you’re ready and when that other
entertainment, from music to acting
person is ready.\
to writing. I’m very poetic and with
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© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 45
All About
You
by TLKC The words “Self Love”, what does it mean? Well, what does it mean to you anyway!
Yet, remember. We are talking about
self love. Love of thy self! That love
Lets say its a domestic issue. (We
would include spiritual, emotional,
at P.I.F.F. Mag do not condone
mental, physical, amd social! I know
or endorse any type of Domestic
you may be wondering, why would
Violence) We all ask how could the
it include social, or physical for
women stay. Many would say “that
that matter. Well, we will start the
wouldnt be me”! Unfortunately, it
list [of] self love series in parts.
may be you. You may be too in love
to leave. Maybe you would hold out
The first thing we should look at is
hope that he or she will change. Only
Some say that you have to love
the words. Let’s start with (self)! This
if you act this way, or do this like they
yourself before you can truly love
one is pretty self-explaining. Do you
want!! If you know yourself, and have
another. While that may be true,
know yourself? Many of us think
that self love, you would know that
there are those that believe when you
we do. We think we know what we
you deserve better!!! There are many
find someone, someone that is true
would do in any given situation. We
versions of (self)! We will get into all
to you, that you will be able to love
often find that 60% of the time, that
of them. For now, please be mindful
them and yourself better. Maybe its
isnt true. How many times have you
of each other.
because you would have someone
watched a movie and said, “that
that counts on you as much as you
couldnt be me”! Lets just say you find
count on them.
yourself in that predicament.
46
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
May we all be blessed!!!
16 bar challenge
16 bar challenge 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 47
“SORRY I’M WORKING”: Ayo I’m gonna be on tidop/ With a thick thot and a wrist watch and a big Glock
Hntr Jmz Rapper | Audio Engineer INSIGHT TO “SORRY I’M WORKING”
That was my goals from back then/ my passion/ switched plan of action No longer trippin’ on fashion the heart on my sleeve should have my shirt on fashion mag and Magnificent diligent with the written spit Name another ill as this I’m the savior of this rap shit why they treat me like I’m villainous Mentalist with the penmanship sensin’ this is your sentiments
I’ve always rode this weird line inbetween the hardcore rappers, their crazy rhyme schemes, the new wave, and laid back bounce. It’s always kept me from getting lost in the crowd. So, I wanted to do exactly that with this challenge. Just lots of inner rhyme and a couple punchlines without it sounding too much like a wanna be hardcore underground rapper. Shout out to P.I.F.F Magazine for the opportunity!
48
Another rapper hating on mainstream wanting to end it well Sorry not sorry I’m killin’ the golden and the new era Nobody can compare bruh from the County of Maricopa Where many flare the dro up I rarely dare to po up I just prepare a flow and tear the show up I am a righteous monsta you soft as some sliced bologna Using my mantra to keep up my chakra to electrify your mind like Blanca These fuck boys don’t want nada Godlike till my time with God come Might get nausea’s if real is a disease the fakes around me be cautious ■
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
16 bar challenge
“12 Plus 4 is 16” I’m still raw when I’m chefin’/ Food for thought is what I am dishing/
Tr3yvon (Nhlanhla) Music Artist INSIGHT TO “12 Plus 4 is 16”
Verses is architecture, get the Picture/ Flows they never run out/ I fall in love with the radio but like my Ex it played me/ As I compose thoughts that makes the devil nervous/ I annihilate the Competition as I calculate this 12 bars/
Honestly, it was to show people that rappers are also educated by the word play of the verse, putting math there, and show casing my skills where I ended the verse. Music is my first love. It is something that I am very passionate about. No matter how long it takes, I always make sure I persevere until I get it right. Music is my life. It is my everything. Everything is not as it seems from the outside. It is much
Like 6+6 is 12 so is 12÷ by 1 is 12 is 12×3 is 36/ Which means I get 36 bars/ So is 36 bars by 24/ Which means I’m back on my 36 bars/ You do the math aye/ They talk about me in a strange way but I still deliver in a strange way/ They talk books but I’m fully booked/ They blame it on a private school/ I tell them they can kiss My Ass/
tougher. Especially when you are an independent artist having to do a lot of things on your own. Patience is the key to everything you need to have it to make it. Shout out to P.I.F.F Magazine for the opportunity!
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 49
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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 51
http://Josephbills.com
52
http://Josephbills.com
joseph bills
http://Josephbills.com
http://Josephbills.com/press-kit 4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 53
Fall in love with
SUBSCRIBE TODAY!!! 54
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
by ES Writer
S.E.L.F [ S E E K . E V O LV E. L E A R N . F O RG I V E ] There's two ways you can spend Valentines
Day. You can spend it with bae doing whatever you have planned or you can spend it by
yourself. However you spend that day make sure you spend it loving yourself.. feel free
[to] insert a joke about masturbation here; I’m always up for childish humor.
love”, I can’t answer that for you. Self love is exactly what it is : “self
For those who struggle with self love and are unclear how they can “self love.” Loving one’s self. I can’t tell you how to show love for yourself because I’m not you and vice versa. I can tell you examples of activities I do because of self love that doesn’t involve me touching myself, but what I consider fun may not be your cup of tea. Like sipping a hot cup of tea on a freezing winter afternoon while binge-watching a favored Netflix series may be someone’s way of caring for themselves (self loving). Maybe going outside on a cold winter day and taking a stroll down the block or jogging is how you care for yourself (self love). All I can do is tell you self love IS NOT self destruction nor is it finding pleasure in harming others. (continued on page 62
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 62
www.youtube.com/WhittTucker
56
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Instagram.com/Whitt.Tucker
Facebook.com/WhittTucker
Twitter.com/WhittTucker whitt1986@gmail.com
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 57
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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
http://Starstruckmultimedia.com/lizzypage http://smarturl.it/n6ldjn
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 59
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http://Starstruckmultimedia.com/lizzypage http://smarturl.it/n6ldjn
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 61
continued from page 55
“But what if somebody hurts themselves while drinking hot tea or gets sick because they were jogging in 30° weather?”
possibility of getting sick. That person
The method I use is an acronym for
may not have healthcare because
the word “self” because I’m cheesy
America’s healthcare system is a
and simple like that. It works for me
b**ch, amongst other things. Now,
and I’m all about helping people so
that person who was just practicing
I hope this works for you. In order to
Yes, I’m well aware someone could
self love has spread their germs all
spell self you have to start with “S”
burn their tongue watching Stranger
over their neighborhood, city, state,
and s is for Seek/Seeking. I’m pretty
Things on Netflix, spill some of that
neighboring states and now all of
sure you’ve heard this before but I’m
piping hot tea on their laptop, the
America is gone because of this
saying it again. In order to recieve
laptop electrocutes them, catches
light jog on a 30° Feburary day.
love you must seek it. Look for the
on fire and their entire place
I’m aware of the Butterfly Effect and
type of love you want people to
burns down all because that little
the Final Destination movie series.
give you and then give that love to
boy on Stranger Things screamed
Chill out. Take a deep breathe.
yourself. That way, if those people
“ELEVEN!” which caused the tongue
Drink some water and don’t think so
stopped giving you that type of love,
burning, tea spilling jump-scare in
hard. Everything will be fine. I don’t
you’ll still have it because it is you
the first place to happen. Yes, I am
know that for sure, but it wouldn’t
supplying that love. You can’t obtain
aware someone going for a light jog
hurt to try so here’s how you can go
that power if you’re not seeking it.
in 30° or below weather risks the
about loving yourself. Next letter is “E.” E for Evolve. Self love is different from receiving love from someone else because
people love you for a number of reasons. The right people love you for intangible reasons such as who you are on the inside. Evolving into the type of person you want to be is how you get the right people to love you. That love will continue to be with you as long as you continue to evolve with love.
62
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Next letter is - you guessed it -
they are rolling in mud. Cats do
“L.” L is for Learn/Learning. Learn
it when they are doing whatever
yoself fool! Learn what healthy
those weird little creatures do as
habits make you happy. Learn what
self love. Forgiveness should be
healthy hobbies make you happy
looked at the same way. We must
when doing them by yourself. Learn
forgive ourself for past failures, f**k
healthy thinking and evaluation.
ups and other unwanted “f’s” in our
Most importantly, learn to forgive.
life. How they both are a choice is
Which surprisingly (or not) is the “F”
we get to choose who we love and
in self. “F” is for Forgive/Forgiveness.
forgive. I know someone is going to
We are not perfect. I know that’s
bring up their favorite “love isn’t a
another saying you’ve heard many
choice” romantic story and that’s
times before. We “F-up” we fear,
f-ing beautiful, but for the most part
we fight, we fuss, we fail. A whole
WE choose who we love and we
lot of F’s on our report card of life;
choose to forgive those for actions
well let’s add one that’ll make us
we individually deem forgiveable.
feel good about those F’s. Let’s forgive. Much like love, forgiveness
Whether you’re single or not, self
can come from ourself and from
love can benefit bae or future bae.
others. Just like we can love ourself
If it’s a fact that “hurt people, hurt
and others we can forgive ourself
people” then I think it’s safe to
and others. Love and forgiveness go
say people who aren’t hurt don’t
hand and hand because both are
hurt people. Self love will protect
mandatory and optional.
you and them so why not take the chance?
How can something manditory be a choice? Loving yourself should be
Don’t let fear get in the way of
a mandatory practice all humans
ruining your Valentines Day f***ing,
partake in. Dogs do it when they are
I mean fun...fun... happy Day of
chasing their tales. Pigs do it when
Love everybody.
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 63
New York rapper and singer (up for debate) A Boogie wit da Hoodie’s latest album is is laced with trendy trap instrumentals, mixed with r&b (today’s version of R&B) and lyricism. Some may be surprised by that last part, but lyricism is something A Boogie [fans] have told me for quite sometime about his music. You’re not going to hear Nas flows or lyricism while listening to this album, but it’s not litered with simple sh*t that you’d hear many of his peers would spit and older, yet equally dumbed-down artists like Future and Young Thug.
Content wise, if you like club
The song ‘4 Min Convo’ details
interactions with people I wish had
bangers and radio hits you’d listen to
Boogie
at
gone differently. Young or old, I
on the way to the club or relatable
moments he wish he could do over
think we can also relate to having
“trendy” hiphop, this album is a
again. Striking up conversations
our heart broken to the point
go and A Boogie is the artist you
with idols he wish he had when
where we’ve become mistrusting
should pay attention to. Sound
the moment presented itself like
of people whether [it] be potential
wise, the production is what you’d
sitting in the studio with Future
friends, romantic partners or family
here today which in turn is what’s
and being starstrook when being
members.
popular amognst inner city youth
face to face with Drake for the
in their early 20s and younger. Not
first time. A cool song lyrically and
Overall, I think this album was
the sound that I’d listen to daily, but
content wise, I definitely can relate
alright. This my first time listening
I can relate to a few of the subject
to having moments I wish I could
to a Boogie project and I didn’t find
matters brought up on this album.
“do over.” Having conversations/
this album to be terrible, so cheers to
reminiscing
back
that. As stated before I do think he
Content wise, if you like club bangers and radio hits you’d listen to on the way to the club or relatable “trendy” hiphop, this album is a go
is much more lyrical than his peers, but don’t take that as me saying he’s the next coming of young Nas or even Hov. If you like trap fuzed with R&B club hits, this album is for you.
Rating: 6/10. 64
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
piff review
Hoodie Szn Tracklist
1. Voices in my Head 2. Beasty 3. I Did It 4. Swervin 5. Startender 6. Demons and Angels 7. Love Drugs and Sex 8. Skeezers 9. Savage 10. Come Closer
11. Look Back At It 12. Just Like Me 13. Bosses and Workers 14. Need a Best Friend 15. The Reaper 16. Uptown/ Bustdown 17. Billie Jean 18. 4 Min Convo (Favorite Song 19. Odee
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 65
Self Love 66
Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
by Be Bold Toya
piff poetry
Self-Love I fell in love with her Her happiness was all that mattered I listened Created a bond measured countless desires relished the way I was attentive to self I craved attention and valued my relationship with self spending endless energy on my inner beauty late night conversations with self to understand my inner conflict was of paramount importance mysterious and pragmatic cherished connection with my spiritual master powered my daily pursuits lover of flowers orchids lilies or rose my favorites often busied myself with watering and nurturing my plants loyal to a fault lover of self divine vitality I assumed my role of self-love dotingly
4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 67
Self-Love...the love for one’s own self. What is your level of self-love? On average, people would tend to say that, on a scale of 1 to 10, their level of self love is somewhere between 9.9 and 10.
The average person would not be
is where the reflection of our self
hesitant [in] saying that they love
began. From the very first moment
their own self. Well, depending on
we opened our 5 senses to the
your perception of what self-love
external world as a baby, we began
truly is, one would find that your
to construct, or build, what we call
level of self-love is nowhere near
our self. The self is truly created in
a 10, or a 9.9 at that. Some would
the image of The Creator. Everything
even find that what they consider
about the self is a reflection of
to be self-love is in all actuality a
Nature. All of the living things and
high level of selfish-ness.
people surrounding it. Therefore,
here...Begin
the true self is Nature without. For
with the self. Stepping outside
it is the foundation upon which the
of the normal box, we can find
individual self is formulated and
that the inner self is an outward
then seen as the nature within, or a
expression of a thing mostly built
reflection of the image of its Creator.
Let’s
think
upon impressions from external influences. It’s a reflection of the
very Nature which surrounds us.
here. How much do you express
Similar to the workings of a mirror,
love for the Nature that lies outside
looking into life (the mirror) from
of you? All of the living things
our most Natural point of view
around you from plants, to animals,
Self-Love or
So, Self-Love is the question
Selfishness 68
© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
to creatures, and yes, other people. All and any of them? What have you done and what do you do to express that love on a regular basis? You see, the personal self only tends to love its own self and things that are deemed important to it by it. That’s just being selfish.
Self-Love would require you to do
things that express impersonal love like stop contributing to the destruction of Nature’s environment (e.g., harmful littering, using technology that pollutes the air and tears away at the ozone layer, senseless murder of plants, trees, animals, and creatures, etc.). In doing these things, you harm your Self, yet you do not realize it because you’re too busy being selfish. So, on a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you truly love your Self? Try to answer that without being selfish.
Noble Moor Free-El
s?
photo by @themodel (IG) 69
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4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 71
the self love issue
v