P.I.F.F. Magazine Vol. 4 Issue 2 "Self Love Issue" [March 2019]

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.

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© 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

departments editorial Positive Influence for the future editors note

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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

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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

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© 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.

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© 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.

4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 21

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Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

snaps

4.2 THE SELF-LOVE ISSUE MARCH 2019 23

24 Š 2019 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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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

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© 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

44

© 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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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.

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© 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