PIFF POSITIVE INFLUENCE FOR THE FUTURE
THE
stay focused
ISSUE featuring
peachy teA Nicki Minaj Who is J Reed? Vanessa Soredjo Twista - JFresh - AZ Hip Hop Fest - Snaps
Issue 5.1 I MARCH 2020
PIFF
stories
48
32
12
2020 VISION
NICKI RETIRES?
FLORIDA FOCUS
Peachy Tea is fully focused on
The last decade of hip-hop has
Straight out the Florida scene, J Reed
taking control of her career and
been respectfully dominated by no
is hitting hard and in 2020, he’s not
overcoming the challenges she’s
other female artist than Nicki Minaj
playing around when it comes to his
experienced in her life journey.
herself. Of course, Cardi B made a
focus. Recently nominated at the
Stepping into modeling only a year
strong emergence in recent years
2019 Underground Music Awards
ago, she has a unique look and
and threatened Nicki’s solo position
(UMA), he’s coming from the realer
attitude that has quickly elevated
at the top of the game and opened
side of hip-hop; the side that speaks
her throughout New York and is
even more doors for new femcees.
to your heart through the relation of
only continuing to grow. Full of
Still, it’s no question that without
the struggle and the side of hip-hop
attitude, hustle, ambition, and drive,
Nicki, the game just wouldn’t be
that knows no commercialism or
this woman is ready to take the
the same. So, it was no surprise
phony gimmicks. Striving to remain
modeling industry by storm. She’s
that when Minaj announced her
different,
well on her way, she just has to
retirement, she sent her Barbie fans
amongst an ocean of soundalikes,
focus on her focus.
into a frenzy.
J Reed is an artist you can truly
unique,
and
original
appreciate; if for nothing else, just for keeping it 100% the only way he knows how.
4
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
departments editorial Positive Influence for the future editors note
10
cover feature Peachy Tea Interview
44
interviewS J Reed 12 Vanessa Soredjo 40
modelling Snaps 19 MODEL life 34
reviews Twista 56 J Fresh 59
Special feature Arizona Hip Hop Fest
64
on the cover peachy tea page 48 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020
5
6
Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
EAST COAST KILLA BEEZ
march 2020 EDITORS
Graphic Designer Martin ‘Lab’ Ridgway
Xavier “CompleX” Prue Ri Royal
DIRECTORS Ray Daniels [Radio Connect] Mzz BK [Promotions] Lorissa “Classy” Dawahoya [Secretary/ Booking]
CONTRIBUTORS Select Oil
Photographers
Def Jam Records
Emily X. Gore [EXG Photos]
Nerve DJs
NeVaughn Brown [Nok Films]
Big Heff
Jonathan C. Ellerbee [J.E. Photos]
JReed
Tina Perry
Mixx Mafia Radio Nok Films
Promoters
Vett Adams
El Bambino
Trey Photos
Classy
Powerhouse 106 FM
Tin the 480 King
Vanessa Soredjo
N.Y. Noyz
Peachy Tea
AP Promo
Albee Al
Talya Coleman
JFresh the Journey
Writers
Peachy Tea
Respect the Underground
Bliss Bindope
PJ the Reptile Model
EXG Photos
Ri Royal
Rashida Gassaway
MTV
ES Writer
Juel of Rome
Misty TV Firm
UBO Magazine
Coleman All Star Agency
Emily X. Gore [Photography] Magical Meela [Social Media Manager] ES Writer [Music Review] Jay Moore [Marketing] Nilda Mendez [Financial] Be Bold Toya [Poetry]
Xavier Prue
E-mail: editor@piffmag.com Twitter: @piffmag 8
Facebook: facebook.com/piffmagz Instagram: @piffmag
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
the stay focused issue
issue 5.1
Contact us to get involved with P.I.F.F.
www.piffmag.com 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020
9
The message was prevalent all 2019: “Focus On Your Focus” and let it play. Focus will make you capable of anything; it fuels you with a power that pushes you forward even when you don’t want to go on. Or as Peeg “PJ the reptile model” Johnson would say, “remember your WHY!” Well, I recently had to keep asking the universe WHY because there’s been many battles. But, the repeated statement was “Stay Focused” and “Let Go.” That was a deep one for me because I’ve never been the type to let it go. So many revelations and lessons learned during this journey of success and one key that was given to me said, “it’s a clean slate and you have to let go to step into your abundance.”
10
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
editor's note
positive influence for the future You see, too many of us are holding
their memory. Lost contracts due to
country of America; thanks to my
things inside... envy, hate, jealousy,
failed goals. Investments fell inside.
man and new manager Ray Daniels,
anger... and they are preventing us.
But, you know what? Frustrated,
Music Director for Power 96.5 FM in
We are preventing us. Blocking our
pulling hair out, cussing out the opps,
Atlanta. Then, came Talya Coleman
own blessings. I admit that even
we stayed focused. And now, here
from the Coleman All Star Agency.
I wasn’t always such the positive
we are. 3 months behind, true. But,
Becoming Editorial President for the
influence at one point in my life.
we’re still here, which means they
Misty TV Firm. Becoming a Media
That’s why I keep pushing P.I.F.F.
haven’t stopped our movement yet
Rep for Nerve DJs; MTV; BET; and
Because I’m focused and my focus
or taken us out the game yet. Gotta
300 artists with Def Jam!! What’s
knows that it’s either this or the
respect that.
happening??!! Blessings are in the air
streets, which I vowed not to go back
Of course, there’s no such thing as
and we are on our way to greatness,
to. So, it is what it is. So, it’s definitely
coincidence; only irony. I was led to
so stick with us as we continue to
been focus that’s driven me through
Atlanta for some strange vibration I
change lives. We just gotta stick to
the storms lately.
couldn’t quite comprehend, but the
one thing: Stay Focused.
As I have always kept it transparent
visions wouldn’t leave me alone.
with my audience since I started
They woke me from my sleep at 3:00
this thing back in 2012, I won’t lie to
AM with equations in my head that
you guys and act like everything that
broke down to my angel numbers. I
glimmers is gold. Life fell apart for me
had no idea where these equations
over the past few months. Death was
came from in my sleep, but when I
the pattern in the air and I lost many
followed the codes and chased the
close ones in only a matter of months.
direction of the numbers, I became
They all told me to keep pushing in
The Radio Connect for the entire
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 11
Reed
J 12
Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
piff interview - j reed
florida
key Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 13
who is
j reed Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue
14
PIFF: Who is J Reed?
and then they go behind your back.
JReed is an artist who expresses the
You’re dealing with untrustworthy
inner battles and lets the listeners
ass friends. Some things along that
know that someone out there can
level there.
relate to what they’re going through.
That’s why I take my time on what
I take what I went through, the
I’m putting together because I want
struggles of life… and when I say
it to be special. You know? I don’t
struggles of life, a lot people think I
want it to be me just going in a studio
mean I had to struggle in the hood, I
throwing something together. I don’t
had to come up from the block, and
go out there to ‘let me go do a trap
all of this. No, that’s a choice. You
song real quick.’ I don’t care if the
know what I’m saying? That’s not a
block loves me or not. I’m trying to
struggle. When I say my struggles,
get to the projects of the white folk.
I’m more or less talking about going
Feel me? That’s the mission. I want
through the heartbreaking pain.
to be able to have the higher ups
You know what I’m saying? You see
get to the point where it’s like look
someone and you put all of your
I can ride around with my kids, and
trust in your heart and your love
I can listen to this right here. Things
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
piff interview - j reed
J Reed is an artist who expresses the inner battles and lets the listeners know that someone out there can relate to what they’re going through of that nature. I like to party. I don’t
now? What would a person over in
mean going to the club every night.
Nevada be thinking about?’ So I’m
PIFF: Do they allow local artists to open up?
You know, I enjoy life. Depends on
thinking outside the box. It’s not just
It just depends on who you know.
how you make life. You hear a lot of
about trying to impress the people
Really the closest spot for artists
people say well life is hard, but hey
around you in your area. You want
really to perform is like Jacksonville.
we never said everything was going
to be the motivation
PIFF: How did you get into the
to be a good day. We said life was
Underground Music Awards? My manager. We met and she
I put it into music. You know;
PIFF: Which section of Florida are you in? How is the Hip Hop scene out there?
going through divorce, a bad love
North Florida, Live Oak. Everything
up getting heard by the man who
life, and things of that nature. You
is good, I’m not going to lie. Instead
hosts it. He was like, “i’m going to
want music to be an inspiration for
of rushing everything out there to
forward this man this opportunity.”
somebody who’s going through
try and get everything seen, I’m
So I was grateful for it. He was
something. Like when I write certain
learning the business side of things.
telling me, “Look I like your music
songs or certain beats that I’m going
I’m trying to monetize all my videos.
and I like your sound, so I’m going
to write to, I think ‘What would a
I want to learn how to make money
to give you a chance to go ahead
person in Missouri be thinking right
off of everything that you do.
and get in on the show.” We went to
going to be a struggle. I take what I’ve been through and
was just shopping music around and different things and wound
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 15
go put the song up for nominations
your budget up. This shit ain’t free.
know exactly what that costs. You
and different things. So I told him
I’m not going to sit here and tell you
see, what gets me is I have so many
I’m trying to go for hardest working
no lies and tell you that anything
artists get up on the song talking
artist because I don’t look at what
that I’ve accomplished up until this
about, “I’m big ballin’, I’m flashing,
I did. I look at what I’m doing now.
point was free because it ain’t.
and I got a pocket full of cash.” But then you have to pay $50 to get up
I just met up with a young female
on stage, and then say you can’t
told her I don’t have a problem with
PIFF: Why is it so important to have a budget?
bringing her on board, working with
For one, everybody’s trying to get
you going to say you have a pocket
her, and getting her to sound right.
signed by a label. You don’t want
full of money, when you can’t even
But I told her you got to look at what
a label to give you a budget. As a
put $50 up for your own career?
the other females are bringing to the
young artist, I ain’t gonna lie, the
table. We already got a Megan The
first thing you’re going to want to do
Just because you come up with a
Stallion. We already have a Cardi B.
is take that money and what? You
hot song, the question is, can you
We already have a Nicki. So you got
want to go buy your mama a house.
do it again? And then can you do
to be something different. They all
They give you that $300 million
it again after that? The thing in the
basically talk about the same shit.
dollars and that $300 million dollars
industry that a lot of people fail
So you got to be something different.
is going to be gone in 3-5 days. That
realize is called a sophomore. I tell
3 million is gone. So now your left
a lot of artists like this. When you
PIFF: Do you see yourself being one of the next ones to put Florida back on the map?
with no money to promote yourself
come out with that first song, it’s
because that was what the money
your freshman song. People don’t
was for. You’re left with no money
know who you are. So when you
I mean, I’m going to shoot for it, but
to get your radio play up. You left
come out with a hit song, people
when I say shoot for it, I mean not
me no money to be able to tour,
fell in love with you. So this is your
just in the aspect of saying Florida
go to different cities, and pass out
freshman year. You’re blowing up.
artist are just touring Florida. I
posters. You know, or give out hard
Now here comes that sophomore
want to have Florida artists be
copies of your cds and different
song. The song behind that one.
able to get up there on the UMA’s.
things like that. You don’t have that
You know? Get up on the South
money now.
and she wants me to work with her. I
because your broke. So how are
This is where a lot of artists fall off. Even some of the great ones that
Carolina Music Awards. You know? From there you keep building your
So when I say budget yourself, you
fell off. It’s something about that
brand up. I’m just trying to get all
have to know exactly what you’re
number 2 that knocks that artist’s
the opportunities and then give the
spending your money on. If they’re
career off because they’re unable to
same opportunities to the same
saying this distribution costs this
meet that same height from that first
type of artist who I see grinding and
amount of dollars to get this amount
song.
working. Like i tell a lot of them. Get
of dollars on your track, you got to
16
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
piff interview - j reed PIFF: What’s the biggest problem with the industry today?
on something special for the ladies.
talent?
A woman loves a man who’s not
Work hard. Nobody gonna give you
afraid to express himself and I
a hand out no matter how nice you
Everybody so quick to want to
came up with a new album called
are. You gotta learn how to grind.
chase a clout, so quick to want to
‘Infidelity’. My cousin was looking at
If you want something bad enough,
be noticed, to the point that they
me crazy like, “bro, you bout to tell
you grind for what you want. Big
forgetting what the music is about to
on yourself” and I’m like at this point,
things coming for 2020, so stay
the point where they feel they need
my story is out. I’m also helping
tuned!
a gimmick to go viral. What would
put together a compilation album
these artists do if the government
with other artists from around the
shut down the internet? How would
country.
you get your music out? My mindset
internet? It’s easy to push music
PIFF: What’s been your biggest thing that’s set you back as an artist trying to make it?
behind a computer screen, but can
Being too trusting.
is on the grind mode... how would you get your music if there was no
you get out there on these different
network with different people from
PIFF: What’s something you learned in 2019 you want to bring into 2020?
different walks of life? A lot of artist
A harder work ethic. This year was
today are just content with putting
more of a learning experience in
their music online, but you do better
showing me how the business truly
with that street grind behind it and
works. Now that I’ve had my trials
that’s what’s missing today.
and tribulations and figured some
blocks? Are you able to hit the WalMart for 3 hours straight and actually
things out, I know what goals I need
PIFF: What are you looking to accomplish?
to handle in 2020 to make things
The Top 200 Billboard Charts. I had
PIFF: Any advice for upcoming
pop.
a recent phone call with them and they gave me some insight as to what it takes to get there. I started out back in the late ‘90s, early 2000s. Over the years, I’ve gotten better with time and I’m working
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 17
Snaps submit to: editor@piffmag.com
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25
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 19
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Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 21
22
snaps
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 23
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snaps
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 25
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Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
snaps
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T Le Before we get into my personal
shouldn’t do regarding their decision
one point in her career she had her
thoughts, Minaj announced her
on whether they should continue
foot in both the HipHop and Pop
retirement on Twitter and further
working or stop doing what they do
world and it wasn’t like she had one
explained why she was “leaving” the
for a living or continue during and
toe in those rooms. I’m talking bout
hiphop/music entertainment world
after giving birth. With that being
a whole foot. Once again you do
by stating that she wants to start a
said I support Nicki Minaj’s decision
not have to be a fan to acknowledge
family and will be taking time off to
because it was what she felt was the
these things plus the numerous of
focus on being a mother. A move
best choice for her. Whether you
other “boss” moves Nicki Minaj
many women/soon to me moms
consider her the Queen of rap or
has made. These are just some of
have made for years. My mother
just another “peasant” one thing we
the things that’ll be missed IF Nicki
made that decisions. If I was able to
can’t ignore is all if her accolades
Minaj was really retiring…
bear children I wouldn’t make that
and her contribution to HipHop. I’m
choice but as someone who can’t
not really a fan of Minaj, but other
You read that right, I don’t think
bear a child (carry life and give birth)
than her sex appeal what I also like
your “Queen” is retiring, but I do
I’ll never tell someone who can
about her is her “boss” mentality. I
believe she is taking time off to
bear children what they should or
thought it was pretty dope that at
actually start that family she’s been
32
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
The ‘Queen’ Has eft the Throne (for now) by ES Writer
wanting to do for sometime now.
HipHop/music industry in general
to either put her career on hold or
Barbs, rejoice, haters I’m sorry if my
just to tweet out that she’s done
stop it to focus on her personal life
prediction ruined your day. I must
and she’s going to start a family.
but I sure don’t believe that is 100%
preference this by saying none of
The Nicki Minaj that I know (not
the reason why she’s “retiring.” Ms.
my view points are backed by inside
personally) will go out with a bang
Minaj (or Mrs. Petty) is testing the
knowledge of this situation because
or at least a lot more buzz. So why
waters. To see how many people
as it stands today Nicki Minaj
scream retirement if she’s not really
are going to beg het to keep making
most likely doesn’t know I exist so
retiring? To me it it’s an ego thing. It’s
music and to see how many people
how would she be able to share
no secret Nicki Minaj has an ego. A
are going to beg her to comeback
this information with yours truly?
very big ego. Some love her big ego.
and when she does return best
Second, the words and opinions
Some think it’s too much. I think it
believe she’s going to be the vocal
here are my own. So please don’t go
is on brand to what we have seen
boisterous Nicki Minaj people have
attacking P.I.F.F. Magazine. Attack
from Nicki Minaj over the years.
grown to love or hate.
me. I don’t think Nicki Minaj is done
That’s why this annoucement did
yet. I don’t think she’ll go as hard
not surprise me one bit. As stated
to defend her name and place in
previously I do support her decision
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 33
model manageme 34
Š 2020 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 8 OF 10
CREATE YOUR OWN GIGS & EVENTS
by xavier 'complex' pruE 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 35
Having trouble getting the ball rolling and your models working? When all else seems to be failing or things are moving slow in between finding open gigs, one of the best things you can do is create your own gigs and events. Doing so serves a double benefit:
it saves you time in searching
for events, gigs, or jobs and submitting and it guarantees your
models work; at the same time
as promoting your models and company.
Creating your own gigs can also prove to be more profitable as well.
Whereas you normally would
solely depend on a commission off a model’s paid job, creating your own can pull in revenue from
other
sources
such
as
charging advertising fees to event
36
sponsors, door sales, ticket sales, merchandise sales, VIP access, etc. Also, because you’re still entitled
to your manager commissions, you will actually save money in paying out your models.
choose to implement into creating
your own agenda. Some good ideas are fashion shows, modeling concert
motivational
speaking
series,
events,
charities, educational seminars, causes,
multiple
or
a
ideas.
Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
combination Two
mixed with a concert and a model date event where people submit for a chance to go on a date with the model. These types of ideas can generate subscribers and build
There are many ideas you can
competitions,
favorites are doing a fashion show
of
of
my
your fan following. Also, you can create smaller, more private gigs, such as shooting for company ads and selling them to the companies. There are numerous ways to create your own gig or event; you just have to get creative and think outside the box.
MODEL MANAGEMENT 101
37
To start, you can begin with putting
from hair studios and schools as
covering it such as radio stations,
out to sponsors who you feel may
magazines or weave companies.
channels, etc. And as much of a
together a press release and reaching endorse your event. If I wanted to do a major event I feel would be
successful, I may organize a breast
cancer awareness event. In the press release, I would announce that
our host is a model who formerly
had breast cancer and overcame it
or was closely related to someone with it; and also, that 25% of all
well as relating medias such as hair
The stylists would perform on our
models and models would be paid
There's really no wrong way to promote, except not to promote.
profits would be donated to breast
from out of the revenue generated
all medical companies and the like
fees.
cancer research. I would seek out
as sponsors. Or, I would create a
from sponsor fees and submission
hair stylist competition event where
Once you have the event locked in
prize for best hairdos. Revenue
and secure, you should reach out
stylists would compete for a grand would come from charging stylists a
small entry fee and I'd seek sponsors
place and things are looking good
to get as many big-name media sources involved in attending and
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY 38
Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
magazines, tv channels, news stretch as it is, if you can get any
type of celebrity or well-known public figure involved, that’ll boost your attention by a huge
increased percentage. Doing this
will give you and your models
and company a good promotion, secure your models with work,
and allow you opportunities to
network and connect with new
people or companies for future benefit.
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 39
Vanessa 40
Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Soredjo Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue
IMAGES BY Michael Buie Film Light Photography 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 41
PIFF: You started out in your early life in law enforcement. How did that lead to modeling and acting? VANESSA: When I first started, I was still in law enforcement. I did a lot of background work like any other [aspiring entertainer] would do. So, I stayed in contact with a lot of the connections I made in the industry and got signed on with two different agents for theater. I’m not with them anymore; but that’s how I got started – I started out as an extra. From there, I just kept pushing myself further from doing free photoshoots for photographers to reaching back out to past connects. But, there was a time that I [got frustrated] and stopped doing it for a year or two because I felt like it just wasn’t going anywhere. And then, about a year ago, I told myself ‘I’m going back into this!’ It’s a struggle, but it’s a passion I really enjoy, so I just continue pushing myself out there.
VANESSA: Reigning Men was my
PIFF: You said you got started out in Louisiana... is that where you’re from?
VANESSA:: I was in Louisiana at the
first one that I did and then, the
VANESSA: No. I’m originally from
time, when I first got my foot in the
other ones I did over here in North
South America in a country called
door in the entertainment industry.
Carolina.
Suriname. I speak Dutch.
PIFF: Where were you at when you first got into the industry?
42
PIFF: Was Reigning Men your first official project?
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
PIFF: When did you move to North Carolina? VANESSA: 2 years ago in 2017.
PIFF: Was it a major change moving there from Louisiana? VANESSA: I’ve been in Louisiana for 14 years. I just wanted a change. I didn’t want to be stuck there for the rest of my life.
PIFF: What’s the difference between the opportunities in Louisiana and the opportunities in North Carolina? VANESSA: When I was in Louisiana, I didn’t really push myself as hard as I pushed myself in North Carolina. My drive just changed.
PIFF: What’s been your roughest moment in everything you’ve done so far? VANESSA: It comes and goes. Because I still work my regular 9-5 job. I feel that people who don’t really love their passion, they don’t really push hard for it but if you really love what you do, even if you know you have to work a regular job to pay your bills, you still will make time for your passion, but if you really love what you’re doing, you’ll keep on pushing.
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 43
PIFF: And not only are you an actress, but you’re a model as well, right? VANESSA: I can’t do everything because I’m short, but I do a lot of print and commerical work, but I could never really be on a runway because I’m not tall enough. That’s why I’m focusing more on the acting. I use the modeling side more for networking and business opportunties. I’m not tall, man. I’m this little shortie!!
PIFF: Do you prefer one over the other? VANESSA: I love them both. I love acting because I can be any character I want to be that I cannot be in real life. I get to walk in people’s shoes and feel their feelings, their thoughts. As far as modeling, I love doing the print work and feeling like it’s my time to shine. I love being in front of the camera.
My biggest goal is to be able to quit my job and pay my bills only through modeling and acting. 44
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
PIFF: How long have you been doing this? VANESSA: I've been officially in the industry since 2012.
piff spotlight - Vanessa Soredjo PIFF: Any advice for other women out there aspiring to make it to your level?
each other. We all were strangers to make that short film. But, it was
PIFF: What’s the process if someone wants to book you on a project?
VANESSA: It has to come from you
actually for my demo reel and I
VANESSA: They gotta holla at
to really want this. If you really want
never thought that the idea would
P.I.F.F. Magazine and go through
this, you’re gonna do whatever you
get picked up. And that’s how I got
you guys if they wanna work with
can to push yourself out there and
started producing and I enjoyed it, so
me. I’m managed by agents, not
make it. And network with people.
I went into shooting ‘Bad Director’.
just anybody can book me, so if
My next film I plan to produce is
somebody is interested in working
PIFF: When did you decide to get deeper involved in the game and go into doing production? Going from being the actor to becoming the director...
going to be about modern slavery.
with me on a project, they’re gonna
VANESSA: That is funny because I
as I can this year. All I need is one
really needed my demo reel. We
opportunity to prove myself. The
got ready to put an idea together to
more bookings, the better. My
build on our demo reels, me and a
biggest goal is to be able to quit my
group of actors. We met up to shoot
job and pay my bills only through
‘Jack’s Shed’ and none of us knew
modeling and acting.
when we got together that weekend
need to get it cleared through P.I.F.F.
PIFF: What are your goals for 2020? VANESSA: To get as many bookings
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 45
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eachy
tea
Interview By: Xavier “CompleX” Prue Photos By: JE Photos
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 49
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cover feature - peachy tea PIFF: What’s your experience in the modeling industry and how long [have] you been pursuing this vision?
production, it’s not gonna be your be a lot of twists and turns and
That’s incredible... so, tell us... why is Peachy Tea the signature?
attitude and flair and fire and a lot of
It started out as “Sweet Tea”. My
[Peachy Tea]: I started modeling
glitz and glam – it’s going to be very
first love gave me the name when
about a year ago in February, March.
well coordinated. That’s what you’re
we was about 14, and it kind of
going to see. There’s not going to be
stuck with me through the years.
Ok, and what was it about it that made you decide to get into modeling on a serious note?
any dialogue, just all choreography
[As I came into the industry], I
and modeling. We’re going to have
wanted to use “Sweet Tea”, but
plus sized scenes, children scenes,
I just thought it was too bland.
traditional themes, men themes
Because... I’m not as sweet as I
At first, I was just having fun. And
– it’s going to be a creative blend.
once was and all the life lessons
then, the fun turned into: ‘I’m actually
This fashion show is going to set the
I had to learn, it just made me a
kind of good at this!’ And then it
Capital region on fire!
little sour. And plus, I wanted to
typical runway show. There’s gonna
was like, ‘I’m actually kind of good
put a spin on the name and I love the South. And my complexion
in this moment.’ For the past couple
We see you’ve been building up in New York. Have you reached out beyond the NY market?
months, I’ve been going through
So far, I haven’t traveled outside of
because I have that yellow, orangish
boot camp every Sunday practicing
New York. Like I said, I’ve just been
tone from being both Latina and
theatrical modeling. I have a huge
having a lot of fun.
Asian. And I loooovve Peach Tea.
fashion show coming up on May
So, over this past year, I’ve just been
Except for that Lipton sh**. That’s
30th, a huge fashion production
doing a lot of shows. I’ve been
nasty, but anything else Peach, I
going down in Albany, New York at
published already in a Manhattan
love it. So, I was like, ‘why don’t
the Governor’s Convention Center.
magazine as well as some blog
I be Peachy Tea?’ because after
placements. I put my son into
having my kids, I needed to find
Tell us more about the show.
children’s modeling, as well, and
a new and different self-identify
The designers – Slyvia Robinson
he’s already gaining a fast reception.
which gave me that escape from my
and Donte Thomas – we're going
He was recently just published in a
normal life because the person I’m
to be having quite a few different
newspaper and he gathered up to
reinventing – which is Peachy Tea
designers working with us from
200 followers in his first month of us
– is my current reality I’m stepping
different cities - including New York
creating his social media account.
into and my future persona. So,
at this, I already know my potential super cedes what I’m doing with it
resembles a Georgia peach, especially when I’m in the sun
City, Atlanta – coming out and it’s
it’s all about a stepping-stone
gonna be all pretty much theatrics.
revolution for me.
Overall, it’s going to be a theatrical
So, bring us back a little bit...
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 51
where does your journey begin?
life. If you can survive that life, you
I moved up to Albany when I was 7,
can pretty much survive anywhere. I
but my father always lived in the City.
remember growing up in the ‘90s, [the
someone wouldn’t be able to tell about you from just looking at your profile.
I ’m from the Bronx, New York. I was
mentality] was like... beef one time,
That I’m 100% real. I don’t sugarcoat
born in Bronx Lebanon Hospital.
beef all the time. In the ‘90s, that’s
nothing. Even if I don’t like it, I’m
Life was really tough for me... tough
how it was. They would shoot up the
goin’ still tell it how it is. Even if it
to me. It didn’t just start with me...
whole park for one person. When you
don’t sound good, I’m not gonna try
something that flowed through me
grow up around that type of element,
to make it sound good. I’m just goin’
and that I had to get through from
you’re going to be a little different. I
keep it 100% and stay real to what
past generations before me. My
don’t interact with every type of vibe
I represent.
parents’ parents weren’t from this
and every person out there, because I
country... they didn’t have their
mind my business. My upbringing was
citizenship and everything like that
messed up, but I learned from it, but
officially until later on. So, it kind of
honestly, I wouldn’t change it because
changed the game for me because
it made me very sharp and on point
I’m the first woman in my family to
and the way most people are these
graduate from college. New York
days is dumb as rocks.
City... that lifestyle is... it’s a difficult
That’s deep. So, what’s one thing
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© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
cover feature - peachy tea What’s your greatest weakness in your ambitions?
How do you find ways to regain your focus?
I tend to lose focus a lot on the
When I get bored with one thing, I
If you had to sum up your biggest goal in one word, what would it be?
bigger picture sometimes, when I’m
go to the next. A lot of people can’t
Empowerment. This movement is
dealing with the bigger picture and
multi-task and I believe that people
empowering me to be the woman I
I start to pick out small issues that
who do have that skill can actually
should have always been and I’m not
overall don’t mean as much as the
continue to progress without feeling
letting anything get in the way of that.
bigger picture – it's not that serious
blocked because maybe one avenue
like the whole project isn’t done
isn’t working. Once I done got tired
off of one issue. And I think that’s
of printing labels – I done printed
my problem – is accepting failure.
200 labels and I got 200 more labels
So, what’s your focul point with that? What helps you keep pushing forward?
That’s something I have to overcome
to print – let me go sew this shirt
My kids. If it wasn’t for my kids, I
because that’s a part of being in this
together because I’m bored with
would have lost my mind a long time
industry is learning how to accept
this. Now, the shirt is sewn and I go
ago, I ain’t gone front. My kids keep
failures and realizing you’re not
back to hit print on the other 200
me sane and motivate me to make
always going to please everyone or
labels, but I’m not waiting because
it through anything just so I can be
accomplish every single goal you
while those labels start printing, I’m
there for them. If God takes me out
always set.
going back to finish designing the
before then, that’s just what it is, but I
shirt I just sowed. And then when I
can’t give up or quit and my kids are
get bored with that and I’m halfway
a factor for that. And of course, God
done with the shirt, ok, let me go
keeps me strengthened and going.
and package this material – package
Whenever I feel my spirit is under
it, put the labels on it. Now, the day
attack, I turn off the secular music
is over and not only did I get my
and get to praying and playing gospel
labels printed and orders packaged,
music and praising Him and thanking
I also designed a whole new shirt at
Him for every moment – good or
the same time instead of just waiting
bad – for just bringing me through it
and getting stuck on one project at
all and keeping me strong. And once
a time.
I get through that, I usually come up with a new approach or a new plan to get me back to the goal in which He provided or led me down to.
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 53
http://Josephbills.com
Why do you feel you have to get away from the secular music? The secular music has a worldly component to it that God warns us about. That deters your mind from doing what you know is right. The only music that you listen to when you hear radio is something that He says ‘don’t do.’ Whether it’s fornication, intoxication, high on drugs, hurting people, killing people, disrespecting people. And it does sound good. It sounds great. And I'm not saying that as humans, we don’t indulge. But, when you feel your spirit under attack, you have to do spiritual maintenance and get away from those vibes because you feel it in your spirit if you’re aware. If you turn off that secular music and tune into spiritual music, it completely turns your mind around and washes out every negative vibe in your mind that you’ve been taking in from the rest of the world.
Is there anyone in the industry you look up to as a role model for your ambitions? Rhiana. She’s definitely my inspiration and with all that she’s accomplished with her own branding and recent modeling endeavors, definitely a woman with a statement. I respect her grind and hustle and seeing her make milliondollar moves just motivates me more.
What should we be on watch for this year with Peachy Tea? I got a fashion show coming up in the early summer. I also have a music video shoot coming up for one of the local designers and artists I’m working with. May 30th is my big fashion show in Albany at the Governor's Convention Center. I’m going on the Stay Focused Tour later this year with P.I.F.F. Magazine. So, we’ll see... got a lot coming up on this adventure of mine...
How do people find you or get in contact with you to work with you on things? I’m on Instagram as @sweettea5972 and my Facebook is: Peachy Tea, so definitely follow and/ or like my Facebook page. I have a modeling page called Peachy Sweet Tea. You can look me up on there, too. You can really look me up anywhere. I’m everywhere and I’m gonna be everywhere!
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http://Josephbills.com
My kids keep me sane and motivate me to make it through anything just so I canhttp://Josephbills.com/press-kit be there for them. http://Josephbills.com
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 55
TWISTA
‘Summer 96’
Mixtape Review Latest project from Chicago lyricist
Pros:
Twista
some
city. These are things that I don’t
and legend in the game, Twista.
homestyle Chicago based house
mind when music artist do it, but
Known for his flash and rapid fire
music mixed with HipHop which
make the project on point. Don’t tell
rap style that was not a missing
shocked me for a moment because
me the album/project is about one
presence on this Mixtape, Summer
I’m not from Chicago. Don’t get
thing then have songs that do not fit
96.’
it twisted, a lot of inner city clubs
said concept.
Twista didn’t lose a step. Twista
rock with House Music. House
fanatics already knew this and it
Music IS black music but that’s for
Overall Twista did his thang on this
wasn’t like I doubted the OG cause I
another discussion for another time.
mixtape. No surprises here, just
knew dude could still rap, just didn’t
I just was not expecting Twista to
wish he made this project shorter by
know he’d do something new on
experiment with that style of music,
trimming the fat that was the songs
this mixtape. The flash is still present
ever. It makes sense him being from
that were not on par with the theme
on this mixtape and of course the
Chicago and that sound being part
of this mixtape.
lyricism and speed. Typical Twista
of the culture, but there are other
is the bulk of this mixtape. Whether
styles of Chi-Town HipHop Music
that bothers you or not is totally up
as well. As far as the pros go I do
to you but here’s what I liked and
he’ll be soon releasing and to bring
disliked about the mixtape and wish
up Chicago culture again, I feel like
Twista did more of.
he wanted to paint a picture of his
PIFF REVIEW
56
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
introduce
Rate: 8/10.
piff review
Latest project from Chicago lyricist and legend in the game, Twista. Known for his flash and rapid fire rap style that was not a missing presence on this Mixtape, Summer 96.’ Twista didn’t lose a step. Twista fanatics already knew this and it wasn’t like I doubted the OG cause I knew dude could still rap, just didn’t know he’d do something new on this mixtape. The flash is still present on this mixtape and of course the lyricism and speed. Typical Twista is the bulk of this mixtape. Whether that bothers you or not is total 4.4 THE INSPIRATION ISSUE OCTOBER 2019 57
J FRESH 58
© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
piff review
rise of the footsoldier Indie artist are known to do
Each mixtape has it’s own sound
some unprecedented things like
and vibe to it. You have the first
dropping three mixtapes out in
mixtape
one day. Who’s the artist that did
which is all about the glitz and
that? Conneticut’s own, JFresh
glamour of the rap game and the
The Journey. I’ve listened to all
street life. Mixtape #2 “The Rise
three projects by JFresh and will
of a Foot Soldier” has somewhat
share my thoughts on all of them,
of a conscious feel to it with
but not separately like my usual
some motivational tracks as well.
reviews. Typically I would share
Mixtape #3 Before Anything Else”
my thoughts about an album/
had a club/party vibe to it. As you
mixtape, name a favored song(s)
can see three totally different vibes
and rate the project out of 10.
to three different projects, but
This review will be a bit different.
generally speaking the content felt
I’ll still name my favorite track
the same. Yes I got different vibes
out of all of the music I listened
from the projects and I credit that
to by JFresh, but instead of giving
to not only the production on all
out individual ratings I will detail
three of these mixtapes being
which of the three mixtapes do I
different but JFresh’s delivery is
like and why. As always with all
different on all three tapes. Despite
Overall if you like what many have
of my reviews and everything I
my lack of interest in two out of
called “street music” or “club music”
do expect honesty and fairness.
the three tapes I will credit JFresh
then the first and third mixtapes should
Without further ado, here’s the
for being an artist who seems to
be more of your speed. Still check out
review!
be very versatile and can re-invent
mixtape #2 because there’s still some
himself and adapt to many different
street anthems on that mixtape as well.
“Royalty&Ratchetness”
sounds of HipHop if he wanted to.
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 59
Since I brought up my interest level with these mixtapes I think it’s an appropriate time for me to bring up my favorite mixtape of the three and that is “The Rise of a Foot Soldier.” The Rise of a Foot Soldier had the best production to me and the most relatable tracks. That’s pretty much why I preferred this mixtape over the other two. There were moments on this mixtape that reminded me of the other two mixtapes, but as I stated before none of these mixtapes sound the same. Not even Fresh sounds the same on these mixtapes. Upon listening to TROAFS (The Rise of a Foot Soldier) I was saying to myself “this mixtape will end up being the more experimental one out of the three.” That wasn’t the case because mixtape #3 took that title but this one is still my favorite out of the three because of the more relaxed (and somewhat relaxed) production and once again the content on this mixtape was better because it had more tracks that I could relate to. Now is an appropriate time to bring up my favorite track of all the mixtapes. Despite my feelings on the mixtapes I can honestly say that all three of them had at least one song that I can say stood out to me as a song better than the rest. The song “Moving To Fast” off of the “The Rise of a Field Soldier mixtape was the song that stood out to me the most out of all of the music by JFresh The Journey that I listened too. Moving To Fast is one of the socially conscious songs I’m talking about when I said the TROAFS mixtape has that type of vibe. What I like most about it is the message. Reminding listeners not to rush the process and to live life with a purpose, but don’t burn yourself out trying to achieve those dreams. It also served as a reminder to folks to stay in their own lane. Not on some disrespectful belittlement shit but to encourage listeners to be themselves and not look at what the next man or woman is doing just to emulate them.
For more P.I.F.F. Reviews, check us out at
www.piffmag.com 60
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4.4 THE INSPIRATION ISSUE OCTOBER 2019 61
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piff poetry
MENDED WINGS
burdened by fractured dreams and empty promises I sought escape from my reality broken emotionally and physically I was lost victimized and exploited by my very own malicious thoughts that ravished my fragile mind and body with no psychological balance tainted by fears and unhealthy recurring thoughts I was broken I wrestled with my negative Internal dialogue no peace in sight broken trapped and lonely my physical pain -my crutch I held on to it with everything I had and then some tattered broken wings filled with brokenness I searched for refuge within my broken-self
I felt sorry for me I even entertained suicidal thoughts when the intensity of the physical and emotional pain prolonged the financial situation-ship roared at me startled me and drove fear in me pathetic aroused with pity vulnerable with my broken wings I searched within the depths of my pain and gained clarity hope restored I regained consciousness I mended my broken wings I sought clinical help reconnected with my inner me and my spiritual self I ran away from my pity party never to look back I made peace and found a better version of me no more brokenness I am alive and thankful for all the valuable lessons learnt I am a free woman, a rich woman with mended wings soaring to new heights
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 63
The Arizona Hip Hop Festival
64
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a
5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 65
the arizonA hip hop festival is one of the biggest staples in the Arizona hip-hop market. Created and orchestrated by Respect The Underground and backed by major sponsors Select Oil, this event goes down annually each year in the good old AZ and continues to expand and grow crazier each year. This year, P.I.F.F. Magazine was delighted to be invited to team up with the 6th Annual AZ HH Fest and highlight some of the hardestgoing entertainers in Arizona State. Check out our girl Emily X. Gore’s images from the night of the event and catch us on the website for more!
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ยง
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The Hip Fes
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e Arizona p Hop stival
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AZHH FEST
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5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 81
PIFF the stay focused Issue
v