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Young Mexico
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Lifestyle|Leisure Lifestyle|Wellness
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Author Ciara Elle - Go Get It! Fit ness - Joseph John son
Daw n Richard covers the Sept - Oct i ssue. Formerly of Danit y Kane and Diddy Dir t y Money, Daw n released her very f irst album titled Goldenhear t on her ow n label Our Daw n Ent.
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A USL BRANDS INITIATIVE Editor-In-Chief PATRICK KELLY Art Director ANNA HAJIYEV Managing Editor CHRISTINA FERNANDER Photo Director KARLOS MATTHEWS
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ART & DESIGN Photography Direction & Editor Anna Hajiyev Contributing Graphic Editor IAMMEDIA, Darrien Goodman Photo Editor John MacKenzie, Nieman Tate Contributing Writers Patrick Kelly, Christopher Mobley, Christina Fernander James W. Brashears III, Ciara Elle, Producer Papa of PapaRoc, Wilf Ligott, Jean Luc Tahou Contributing Photographers Anna Hajiyev Photography, Karlos Matthews, Darius Church, Steve Haining, Jnawsh Photography, Jan Preire Special Thanks: Ra-Fael Blanco, Christina Fernander, August Mapp, Producer Papa, Anna Hajiyev, Christopher Mobley, Karlos Matthews, Wilf Libgott , Katrina Hirtz, Amos Williams, Amanda Lebowitz, Jill Borkan, Jean Luc Tahou, Kellen Marcus, Karl Wolf & Team Wolf, Jazze Pha, JB & Young Mexico, Darius Church, Joseph Johnson, Farrah Gilyard, Xenia Sky, Ciara Elle, Blue Kimble, Tesh & KJ, Stephen Williams, Aleesha Carter, Aisah Albritton, JWJ Studio, Ambiet Studio, Treesound Studios, Our Style Team, Photographers, Publicists, Producers, DJ’s, Artists & Industry Pros SEIDEMG KDS LLC. USL Magazine is copyrighted from 2011-2013 by SEIDEMG KDS LLC & Patrick A. Kelly. All other copyrights and trademarks are of their respective owners. Disclaimer Submitted articles, feature interviews , Let’s Talk About Sex and the Percy Says Column are all views from the writers’ perspective and do not represent the view of SEIDEMG KDS, LLC. USL Magazine, USL Brandsand or Patrick A. Kelly. Mailing / Production Address 1002 Lena St, Atlanta GA 30314 Corporate Address 3525 Piedmont Road, 7 Piedmont Center 3rd Floor, Atlanta, GA, 30305 United States 1 (678) 278-9710 Printed/Digital Editions USL Magazine is published bi-monthly in print and digitally. Our website at www.uslmag.com is updated weekly with music reviews, news, events, and reposts. TV Show / Video Interviews SEIDEMG Productions produces The Ultimate Spotlight CMV TV show, soon to resurected for season 2. Taping began April 15th, 2013 and will air beginning July, 2013.
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HISTORY - Anna Hajiyev was very instrumental in the successful launch of USL on January 1st, 2012. Her art direction created a platform in how the publication would shoot all of its editorials. She titled our most coveted editorial “Opulence,� which was n location at The Atlanta Decorative Arts Center.
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ANNA HAJIYEV Anna Hajiyev i s al so an Atlanta based photog rapher capt uring moments of fashion and ar t, people and places. Bor n and rai sed in Belaru s (a former Sov iet republic), she moved to the U.S. in 2006 to
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pursue a doctoral deg ree in communication. Both a st udent and a photographer, she combines her two greatest passions - the rigor of academia and the free f low of creativity. Anna enjoys enormous support from her parents (her father being a professional photographer) and friends on her exiciting life journey.
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HISTORY - Patrick Kelly founded USL Magazine on May 14th, 2011. The concept was to create a publication that encompassed all the aspects of mu sic and enter tainment, while boasting a real fashion f lair. USL’s f irst celebrit y cover was inter nationa super model and celebrit y DJ Sk y Nellor.
PATRICK KELLY COV ER FEAT U RE - To have fame and success in the music industry on an international level is an accomplishment every artist wants to achieve, but it is also a great challenge. With songs topping the charts from Canada to Japan, as well as multiple awards such as the MTV Europe Award for Best Arabian Act,
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Karl Wolf has definitely achieved that goal. His hit single “Africa” went four times platinum in Canada and he has worked with Three 6 Mafia, Mary J. Blige, Jay Sean, Snoop Dogg and countless others. Karl’s new single “Go Your Own Way” is currently available on iTunes. Read his entire interview at page 58.
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A ZI A ISH LING Photo By Karlos Matthews
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Azi experienced her first taste of the industry when she signed her first record deal with SONY BMG UK as part of a three piece girl group called Trinity Stone. @AZIAISHLING
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Azi F#*king Aishling Artist Writer Trendsetter
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zi Aishling: The name Azi Aishling alone is enough to send our curiosity on a wild journey and that is exactly what this Irish native is doing, “SERVING US UP SOMETHING SPECIAL”! Born in Dublin, Ireland, Azi began writing poetry from a very young age and the transition to songwriting occurred naturally as the kaleidoscope in her brain kept spinning. The shapes have finally aligned and the entire world is about to be hypnotized by her lyrical masterpiece. This sassy feline is going to take us down a catwalk we may never forget using her most famous tools, her voice and a pen. Azi experienced her first taste of the industry when she signed her first record deal with SONY BMG UK as part of a three piece girl group called Trinity Stone. Due to budget cuts the group was dropped 3 years later causing Azi to question her destiny in the industry. Song writing came back knocking again and this time Australian Idol, Jessica Mauboy was behind the door and Azi answered with an Australian no.7 chart record called, ‘Let me be me’. With the guidance of her manager Freddy B who has set her vision clear, Azi has relocated to Miami, FL and has yet to look back on her musical endeavors as the only place she is heading is to the top. Prepare your ears and minds for the frisky f lood of music that is about to drown the charts as Azi is diligently working on her current mix tape conveniently titled, ‘Pink Pussy Music’ deriving from an Irish slang term for, “girly type” music. This eclectic collection of raw material is sure to set the world on fire and it will be Azi Aishling that we all have to blame. Follow Azi @AziAishling.
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KinKade Rapper Singer Photographer Karlos Matthews Stylist Brittany J’Na Hair/MUA Veronica Hernandez Production Patrick Kelly, Papa Diouf, Christina Fernander, August Mapp Darius Church & Stephen Williams Location Ambient Studios
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hat was the inspiration behind the name Kinkade? At first there wasnt really a meaning behind my name. My name was created during the time I was in a rap group before becoming independent. The name just kind of came to me one day and I stuck to it. As my career progressed I figured out that there was a famous artist by the name of Thomas Kinkaid who composed beautiful master pieces. And looking at his work, in a way, inspired me to “compose beautiful master pieces” with my music. W hen was it you k new you wanted to become an artist? And at that definitive moment, what were some of the first steps you took in becoming who you are now? W hen I was 14 years old, I came together with a g roup of young men from my high school who I g rew to love as my brothers and who also had the same passion for music as I do. We made music that we loved and everyone around us loved. At that point in my life that’s when I said that I wanted to be an artist. One of the f irst steps I had to take was to go solo. As unfortunate as it is, most g roups never seem to work out. So our g roup broke up. But as hard as it was to keep going on without the people you made a name with, I had to motivate myself to keep pursuing my dream of music. Who inspires your artistry? Family, friends, and different genres of music really inspires me. I love music!
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What has been one incident in the past that motivates you to keep pushing forward? Recently my great grandmother passed away and she was the rock of my family. I was very close to my great grandmother. A couple of days prior to her death she told me to carry on making music and that she wanted to see me on the television one day. I wish that she could’ve stayed around a little while longer to see me physically but I know that she will look down from heaven and see me with a smile on her face. How important is it to build the right team; people who will guide your career and why? It is extremely important to build a team of people that believe in what you want to do and who can make things happen. You also have to have people around you to steer you in the right direction. There are a lot of people who know you’re talented and want to bring you down. That’s why you have to have good mentors and people who have been there and done that; who will tell you right from wrong. What music are you currently promoting and what was the inspiration behind the single? Currently I’m promoting music for a more commercial type of audience. The inspiration behind my single is based off of a type of slang used in a small part of my hometown. I thought it was pretty cool so I used it as the title of my new single “Wazzam.” Do you have a 5 year goal and if so what is it? Yes I do have a 5 year gol. As you may know I am 17 years old and currently enrolled in College. So my plans are to go to school and pursue my major but if music takes off, like
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I pray it does, then I will dedicate 100% of all of my efforts into my music. If you could work with any major artist, who would it be and why? It would be Wale, hands down. He’s my choice because of his f low, subject matter, how diverse his lyrics are, his sense of style, humble persona, and the way he caters to the female crowd; which is a thing most rappers can’t or are unable to achieve. The man is a player with his pen hahaha! But if I could work with him and pick him to be a mentor, then I definitely would. And I would like to learn a little bit from him as well. Follow Kinkade on Twitter @iamkinkade
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Sadiq Onifade A.K.A Wurld Singer Writer Musician
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here’s a saying, “a first impression could change the rest of your life, which I came up with while pondering on some business decisions I needed to make last month. And having been in and around the music game for quite a while, I’ve see them come and I’ve seen them go. Typically, it’s the really talented people, who think they’re God’s gift to this earth, who are usually the ones to get caught-up in the game. The one’s who aren’t as talented, but do their due-diligence, have perseverance, and humility have longevity in their careers... You can’t expect to know everything and in the business you never burn bridges, because you don’t know how people and things are inter-related.
About Wurld: Having already worked with heavy weight producers such as Fitz Gerald Scott, Anthony Dent and Kenny Smooth as well as currently writing for the likes of Timbaland, Keri Hilson and Mario as some of his early achievements in his short introductory career, this multi-talented singer, songwriter and musician, Wurld is well poised to take the Pop world by storm with his careful blend of smooth and infectious vocal-led Electro/Pop music and Dance-f loor fillers that are sure to leave us enthralled and wanting more... -pressparty.com
Now I had the opportunity to meet and talk with Wurld a couple months ago; an introduction that was made by his Business Manager Jean-Luc Tahou. At that time, I thought he had a descent look and his music was heading in the right direction. My first impression, however, was that this kid seemed a bit arrogant, head-strong and really feeling himself. However, when you’re young who don’t really think it’s all about them? On the other hand, he really has the wherewithal to make a big name for himself. He has a great sound, his look is very universal and he gives you that whole international appeal. My advice to him is learn humility, be a man of your word always, never let your success surpass your character and don’t make business decisions with feelings involved!
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Follow Wurld @thisiswurld
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Young Mexico Rapper Signed to Jazze Pha’s Sho Nuff Digital
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YOUNG MEXICO out. I get more inspired by him everyday, just from being around him. What would you like to accomplish in the next 3-5 years of your music career? It’s not about money but I was just riding around with one of my uncles and I was telling him “man, I want to be a millionaire before the end of next year.” Meaning, before December 31st of next year, I want to be a millionaire…you know what I’m saying. I want to be on the BET Awards, I want to be at the Grammys and I don’t have to be nominated. I want to do features with some of the hottest artists this year. So, you said you want to do features this year. Who would be your top 3 choices to do a feature with? I would like to do a feature with Lil Wayne, Future, and Eminem. I hate doing stuff like top 3 and such, because there are a lot of people I want to do features with...like Kendrick Lemar; he’s hot. I want to do a feature with everybody who is hot, moving forward and got their feet moving forward in the game and going hard. Do you have an interest to do more than music? If so, what are a few other things you see yourself doing? Oh yeah, yeah…I wouldn’t mind acting, and going into the acting business because it’s a good avenue. I had my mind on shooting some movies too but at the position I’m in right now, I feel it’s a little too early for that right now. I also want to be in real-estate. I want to own some businesses and houses and help people who really can’t afford the house they want. Where can we see you perform next and are you currently working in the studio? I will be performing in Tennessee later this month on the 20th. I’m actually in the studio working every day, perfecting my craft everyday. There’s a lot of things I’m working on - I’m working on an album titled Look Into The Future and a mixtape called Mass Destruction. The mixtape is actually going to be me getting on everyone else’s beats and rapping to them, which I haven’t done since I was younger. But everybody been asking me to do it, so I guess I’m just going to get on and kill them beats. I’m just trying to make it and see my fans. But there’s a lot of other things going on too - tours and stuff that my team and manager have been
What was your mind frame after getting the opportunity to be on 106 & Park? It’s one of every upcoming rapper’s dream to be on 106&Park and/or be apart of BET. It was a great experience. When I got on there it was almost unbelievable but it let me know that all things are possible with the help of God. So when I left there, it just let me know that skies the limit and all things are possible. With me being from the hood to being on BET, let me know that anything is possible as long as I kept my mind on it and work hard at it. You know what I’m saying? Within the last two years what are a few things that you would say has changed with you and how you approach doing music? Well I definitely gotta give it up to my team because I was with Sony G before I got into my situation with Jazze Pha. So, having a team is what kind of changed me not having to do a lot of things myself. You know, I was pressured to have to go through a lot of things by myself and it feels better to now be able to work on the artist part of things without having to have my hands in everything else. Because at the time, I didn’t have a manager, didn’t have a team manager or team period. So, I feel like that’s the best thing I have going right now - is having that team behind me. And also, working with Jazze Pha…by him being so professional, it made me be more professional, especially when putting on shows. I’m not just rocking for the hood no more, I’m rocking for the world… I got that outlook on things now. The bigger picture…not just rap, you know what I’m saying. I’m doing it for the world and I know I got fans that are looking up to me. Speaking of fans and those that look up to you - who has inspired you the most since you began your music career? I got a lot of inspirations. In the beginning - it was 2Pac and Michael Jackson. I feel like Michael Jackson was the greatest performer of all time. Everybody has their own opinion...I feel like in my opinion, 2Pac was the best rapper of all time. So when you put those two together, I feel like you can’t know better greatness than those two. But as time progressed and the rap game has moved forward…you got T.I., Lil Wayne and Drake. I’ve been inspired by the whole rap game period. And I can’t leave Jazze Pha USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
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working on. So, right now I am just playing my role as the artist until my manager tells me the next move. If you could sit down to have a conversation with two individuals (living or dead) and ask them about life, career advice, etc...who would it be and why? Jesus. When it comes to asking questions about life - I don’t need to speak to anyone else but him. What’s your definition of Hip-Hop? My definition of Hip-Hop is greatness, heart and soul - a figure of speech. How did you receive the name Young Mexico?
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Well, where I come from, I know a lot of people that can relate to getting money. A lot of people ask me why I call myself “Young Mexico,” and no it’s not because I’m Mexican; I don’t even speak spanish. I was crossing the border before I was 18. I really crossed the border before I was 18, met up with some guys over there and did a little trafficking back in my day, but it turned into something different since then. I got a lot of love from folks down there and now I can go down there anytime I want to and not be worried I’m not doing anything illegal. I’m just having fun. I’m blessed that I am here to be able to talk about it now and thank God
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that I did not end up in a cage for that reason. But that’s how I came up with the name “Young Mexico.” If you wanna know anything about “Young Mexico” - I’m a down to earth person, real like everybody else. Follow Young Mexico on Twitter @youngmexico
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FROM DUBAI TO TOP CANADIAN RECORDING ARTIST
KARL WOLF SPEAKS ON HIS SUCCESS BY CHRISTOPHER MOBLEY | PHOTOS BY STEVE HAINING
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NO! IF HE HAD LISTENED; HE WOULD NEVER HAVE GONE
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“‘One of the lessons I learned is to stick to your guns. The guys at the top really didn’t know anything about the music. I mean, if all of these guys at the top rejected this song (“Africa”), and it became my biggest selling song, how can you have faith in these guys when it comes to what’s good music or not?
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o have fame and success in the music industry on an international level is an accomplishment every artist wants to achieve, but it is also a great challenge. With songs topping the charts from Canada to Japan, as well as multiple awards such as the MTV Europe Award for Best Arabian Act, Karl Wolf has definitely achieved that goal. His hit single “Africa” went four times platinum in Canada and he has worked with Three 6 Mafia, Mary J. Blige, Jay Sean, Snoop Dogg and countless others.
another, one record to another, and now I’m here today four albums in and over 2 million records sold worldwide.
So sit back, grab a drink, a smoke or whatever you need to chill-out and calm down, because we’re talking with Karl Wolf about his humble beginnings, his push to become where he is today and how he plans to bring his world famous sound to the America. Karl also has a hot new single available on iTunes called “Go Your Own Way,” which is a take from the 1976 hit “Go Your Own Way” by the British/American band Feetwood Mac. “Go Your Own Way” features Block Squad Monopoly’s artist Reema Major and is gen-pop certified. This means it’s hot as hell, we love it, want to dance to it and are promoting it as you’re reading this article. So, without further a-due, Karl Wolf...
Which major artist gave you your first real big break and what was it like?
So Karl, what made you want to get into the music business and how did you get your start?
So you’ve opened up for big names like Mary J. Blige and Lauren Hill. You’ve also worked with many other big name artists such as Snoop Dogg, Jay Sean and Three 6 Mafia. Out of all of the artists you’ve worked with, who did you enjoy working with the most?
My parents were both musicians. I grew up in Dubai, because my parents left the civil war in Lebanon in the 70’s. My dad used to play the drums in a band, and my whole family pretty much had musical talents. When we came to Dubai there wasn’t a big outlet for music like there is today. And when I came to Canada, that’s when I got into production. I started producing and writing for different artists. That’s how I got my start in the business, and after selling about a million records as a producer/ songwriter I decided that it was time to be recognized for my own musical talents instead of just writing for other artists. One thing lead to USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Who were some of your main inspirations? Obviously Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder had a big huge inf luence on me, since I also play the piano. Prince, Chicago, Boyz II Men, 112, Naughty By Nature and pretty much everybody from Hip Hop and R&B to Pop and Rock & Roll inf luenced who I am today.
My first big break was opening up for Mary J. Blige in Dubai. That was my first big concert. She was really cool and sweet to me, which was very surprising because everybody was telling me about how she’s tough and not really cool with people. So that had me a little scared, but she was really nice! She sat down with me and my parents and we all talked. She told me how everybody was telling her about my music and that she liked what she heard. So yea, she pretty much gave me that big break, and it was just a snowball effect from there.
I definitely enjoyed working with Juicy J from Three 6 Mafia. That’s my boy. Dude is mad funny; mad cool. We shot the video in L.A. for our single “Mash It Up,” and he is just a riot. He’s fun to be around; he’s a real good dude. I also enjoyed working with Snoop Dogg as well. Your people say that you’re coming out with a new single and album soon. You’ve already had international success with past
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albums, do you think that this next one will bring that same success to the America? I think so. Me and America have been f lirting back and forth with my music for quite some time. I think it’s just a matter of the right song for the market and support behind me. There’s also a growth of interest happening with my music in America. Earlier this year, I did the New York City show for Pop Explosion and it was a big success. So I might be on maybe 20 dates per tour in American cities. I’m working in the studio on some crazy stuff and thinking about working with some major artists. I don’t want to say any names right now, but I’m thinking of some major rappers who are hot in the industry right now. I might be working with Mavado on something in Miami soon. Speaking of working with other artists, Drake and Justin Beiber have gained their popularity mostly in America. Are you considering working with one of them since you’re bringing your brand to America? Me and Justin Beiber actually did a show in Toronto when Usher brought him out. He came up to me and told me he was a big fan. There’s definitely a connection; a Canadian connection. Maybe I’ll call him up on something. But I don’t like using people; just calling them up to say “let’s do a record.” I’m not gonna call them up and just go out on a limb and say “Hey, I’m working on a record. Help me out.” It’s gotta come out of love. It’s gotta come from them. So if they want to work with me, they’ll reach out. I’m in my lane, so if they come through, more power to that. “Africa” is one of your biggest hits thus far, but is it one of your favorite songs? “Africa” is probably my favorite songs to perform when I’m on stage. But one of my songs that I love is one from an older album called “My Ethnicity.” That’s a really good one that I like. It reminds of me of my parents and where they came from. They
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came to North America because it really wasn’t safe where they were. My parents sacrificed their lives to give me a better life here, and I’ll never forget that. That was the whole concept of that song, never forgetting where you came from. So what is it like having this level of success in your career and what life lessons did you learn from it? As an artist, you never work hard just to fail and it’s rare when things really work out. The success of “Africa” was a real shock to me. It was my biggest single, but the story behind that is really interesting and made me learn a lesson. Nobody really believed in it and no one wanted to sign me at the time. I bought the rights to the original song from ToTo, recorded my own version, and borrowed almost $200,000 to make the whole project happen. Every label from Universal, Sony and Warner just told me that I didn’t have what it takes to make it. They didn’t want to give me a chance until I hired my own radio promoter. “Africa” got on the radio, and it blew up in Canada. BMI called me soon after, offered me a record deal, and the song went four times platinum in Canada. So, one of the lessons I learned is to stick to your guns. The guys at the top really didn’t know anything about the music. I mean, if all of these guys at the top rejected this song, but it became my biggest selling song, how can you have faith in these guys when it comes to what’s good music or not? So for artists out there, don’t listen to the big wigs telling you what’s not going to work because they really don’t know. You have to go back to your fans. I pretty much said “Screw the labels” at that point, and decided to let the people decide. That’s when I learned that success comes from your fans. When you promote and build your fans, that’s when the big labels will respond. How do you feel about your female fans? Are you single, or do you have a special lady that’s inspiring your music? Ha, ha, ha! I love them! The more the merrier. It’s all fun, but I use my music for inspiration. I’m single, because it’s hard having a girlfriend in this industry, especially with all of the traveling and the long nights. It’s less drama that way!
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For more on Karl Wolf, visit his website at www.karlwolf.com and follow him on Twitter @KarlWolfs.
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BEHIND THE SCENE Tha Music Factory with J Holiday & Mishon
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Tha Music Factory A New Music TV Show Photographer Karlos Matthews Stylist Amina Jordon MUA Veronica Hernandez Hairstylist Edony Rose & Omisha Daniel Production Patrick Kelly, Papa Diouf, Christina Fernander, August Mapp Darius Church Location Ambient Studios Special Thanks: Farrah Gilyard & Aisah Albritton
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E N T EMRATGAAI Z N IMNEEN T Who is Blue Kimble? I’m an actor from Atlanta who has been seen in such productions as BET’s The Game, Being Mary Jane and Vh1’s Single Ladies. I’m a Talented & single young man who gets his foundations from his family. How did you come to be a part of Tha Music Factory? This production was a blessing brought to my attention from my manager, who informed me that the show needed a fresh face as a host. After the first meeting with the producer and director, we’ve been family ever since What expectations do you have being a part of this new music TV show. I expect the show to be MAJOR... Of course you have to support your own product, right? But there is nothing on TV like this what this show is Bringing; a live audience, dancers with pure talent like you’ve never seen before, the newest videos, and some of the hottest musical artist giving live performances. This is the music show that everyone’s been waiting for. What are some of your more memorable moments, while working with your co-host Tesh and KJ? We’re like brother and sisters. We have so much fun and sometimes we are just straight clowning on the set and behind the scene. Everyone will love our chemistry. Of all the talent being featured on the show, whose your favorite and why? Wow... You can’t just put me on the spot like that! We have so many hot artist who have came through Tha Factory. It would be too hard to just single out one as my favorite. All of the performances are crazy ! Which major artist would you like to see on the show? The popularity of the show has really grown and we want it to be at the point where all major artist want their performances premiered on Tha Music Factory. I also would like some of the classic old school artist to be showcased as well. Looking good is hard work; staying that way is even harder. What eating and workout regiment do you employ to maintain your model physique?
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Blue Kimble Host
Wow, model physique! I used to be a football player, so a lot of my physique is still in shape because of the training that I used to do. I like to workout when I can make time, but I LOVE to eat. It’s Amazing that I still have these abs with my diet, lol. Which do you like more: modeling or being a TV personality? They both go hand and hand, but I am an actor first who is just blessed to be able to have the opportunity to do all three. In the industry, I’m able to wear many hats. What other projects do you have in the works? I’m blessed to be working. A couple feature films I’m on board with are in pre-production: movies Greed, Cyber Love, Run and a couple pilots I’m involved with. Like I said I’m Blessed, glory to God. We’re trying to make 2013 explode !
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How did you come to be a part of Tha Music Factory? I am an actress outside of the show, and I auditioned and was cast for a pilot that happened to have the same executive producer. So I was called in and told about the project, and I immediately loved the concept, and was ready to get to work. What expectations do you have being a part of this new music TV show? I tend to aim pretty high, but in all honesty, Im learning alot and getting a different feel for how shows come together. So I expect to really connect with the audience and that everyone will love the show. I’m grateful for whatever comes of it. What are some of your more memorable moments, while working with Blue and KJ? Taping days are hilarious! There’s always a lot of behind the scene clowning, but when they cue music, we all start doing the most ridiculous dancing; well they do. I actually kill it, lol! Of all the talent being featured on the show, whose your favorite and why? Theyve all been great, but I really have to say J..Holiday... I mean, he brought a live band, which is always Dope. Which major artist would you like to see on the show? There are so many... I literally have thee longest list in my head, but I think since we started taping in Atlanta, maybe T.I., Jeezy or Luda; somebody that automatically makes you think of the “A.” Has there ever been a time, while on the show, that someone says something
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Tesh
Social Media so ridiculous... you just have to check them? If so, what was your response? I try not to do too much checking... We do work with lots of people, so sometimes you have to give a side eye or make a small statement, but no checking on my end. I’m pretty chill! What other projects do you have in the works? I am working on a few independent projects. I have a funny scene in the newly released indie movie Slice 3. I try not to mention my indie projects until I know theyll be released, because some of it gets scrapped. Im always auditioning and looking to get better, so what im working on can always change.
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E N T EMRATGAAI Z N IMNEEN T How did you come to be a part of Tha Music Factory? It efinitely pays being in the right place at the right time! I was at an unrelated event at a lounge in Atlanta and was approached by one of the owners who was also the producer of the show. He said I had the style they were looking for and asked me if I could get started immediately. Within minutes, I was interviewing with the entire team and got on board that same night. What expectations do you have being a part of this new music TV show? I want to be an inspiration to people. I know that this is a music TV show but I also know that people may look up to me for whatever reason. Having a great attitude and a positive outlook on life ref lects greatly on others. I also like to entertain and love to talk about current events. Being on this show will allow me to bring everyone the hottest topics and latest news. What are some of your more memorable moments, while working with Blue and Tesh? Working with them is like a breathe of fresh air. They’re like family and always bring great energy to the room. Of all the talent being featured on the show, whose your favorite and why? Thus far, I will say that Tex James was my favorite. His music had us rocking in the studio. After talking with him back stage, I realize that we had some of the same desire to help those less fortunate. Which major artist would you like to see on the show? I am a fan of many artist but I am a huge fan of “The King.” I would love to have T.I. on the show. He creates everlasting music and is building a strong empire for his family. Has there ever been a time, while on the show, that someone says something so ridiculous... you just have to check them? If so, what was your response? Not anyone else; its more of me checking myself. Some of the things I say while taping, has me laughing and thinking to myself.... “Why, did you just say ?!” I love to have fun and I always find humor in the craziest things.
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KJ
Street Connection Model Actor What other projects do you have in the works? My first love is my nonprofit organization. I started a organization that assist homeless families and the less fortunate. I focus on outreach, housing, prevention, and education. I was blessed to be a blessing and It is nice to take the good things in life and expand on them.
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Amos & Tesh About The Producer: Amos “Campain” Williams, an Atlanta native, studied Architecture at SPSU. Architecture Designer by day and TV/Film Producer by night. Overall, he’s a “creative genius with a beautiful mind;” well at least he seem to think so, lol. Amos loves the “creative process”. and has been involved in TV, film and music since the age of sixteen. Why a TV show like Tha Music Factory? Why not? Its time for Atlanta to have a home based show, showcasing the best talent in dance and music. There is no place like Atlanta and Tha Music Factory will become the platform for such artistic expressions. Where did the inspiration come from? The inspiration came from the love of the Atlanta performing arts culture and the void that needed to be filled, as far as the “fair” representation of the performing arts coming out of Atlanta and the deep south. What is your expectation for the show? The expectation for the show is high, like anything else I am involved in. We would like to take over the “TV World”-“One Day at a Time” lol. What other projects do you have for the show? We would like Tha Music Factory to be a staple in the community. Hopefully, annual festivals, award shows, summer camps for kids, etc. Visit: www.thamusicfactry.com
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Morning Anchor – CBS 46 | Better Mornings Atlanta Atlanta morning news just got a little sexier and Brandon Rudat isn’t just using his investigative instincts or degree from NYU to get the job done. Now-a-days, CBS 46 Better Mornings‘ Producers are employing some muscle to increase ratings. All around Atlanta you see billboards and plastered MARTA buses of Brandon Rudat, Tracye Hutchins and Jennifer Valdez showing off their sexy tattoos and a more edgier look than the typically boring news show enterprises. But, will this do the job? Will Brandon, Tracye and Jennifer be able to bring back some much needed viewers to channel 46? A source from the other news station says that even with all Brandon’s muscles, CBS 46 still lack luster and the ratings aren’t increasing! Regardless of media warfare, you can’t hide the fact that in Atlanta, Brandon is holding the trump card when it comes to male news anchors with chops. Don’t hurt ‘em Brandon! QUOTE: “An Emmy award winning journalist, Brandon came to Atlanta after anchoring and reporting for KTLA 5 News in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to KTLA-TV, Brandon was a news anchor at WHDH-TV, NBC 7News, in Boston, MA . Before joining WHDH-TV, Brandon was an investigative reporter and fill-in anchor at WVIT-TV in Hartford, CT. From going undercover and busting illegal street vendors to exposing a company manufacturing illegal fire extinguishers, Brandon broke some of the states’ biggest stories.” –cbsatlanta.com
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AVEDA Salon 778 N Highland Ave Atlanta, GA
(404) 874-6604
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DESTINATION ATLANTA
5 HOT SPOTS YOU SHOULD VISIT WHILE IN TOWN
JAMES W. BRASHEARS lll
Entrepreneur, Tastemaker & Philanthropist
For the cigar connoisseurs, this swanky 1920s underground speakeasy experience sets the bar for the exclusive after dinner grown and sexy vibe. The cigar lounge of lounges… Prohibition is not a member’s only establishment, but guests can only enter by securing the evening’s password. This password (telephone number) must be entered into the dial on the phone inside an antique phone booth that opens once access is granted. With a full bar and late night menu showcased in a recipe book, passed down from generations, Prohibition is a must on the list of places to experience in Atlanta.
Prohibition 56 East Andrews (basement) Chef Rob’s Upscale Lounge 5920 Rosewell Road, Atlanta Chef Rob’s Upscale Lounge created and ran by celebrity chef Chef Rob Gayle is on my list of places to go in and around Atlanta. The Sandy Springs bar/lounge gives tastemakers and professionals throughout the city a unique experience. With a menu of assorted Caribbean tapas, cocktails, top-shelf choices, hookah, and signature wine selections, there is something for everyone. The alluring ambiance featuring contemporary furnishings plays host to an assortment of exclusive events, private mixers and social activations attended by industry inf luencers. USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
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CZAR Bar 56 East Andrews Drive Czar Ice Bar is a Vodka Bar experience like no other, tucked away in the heart of Buckhead. Offering the 300+ Vodkas of the world, this tucked away destination for Atlanta tastemakers provides the perfect blend between bar and lounge. Patrons can sit and literally “be cool” with an exotic vodka cocktail at a 4” thick and 27’ long solid ice bar top. Featuring a full sushi menu created by the world acclaimed master sushi chef, Chef Saito Saito, CZAR Bar caters itself to the wantto-be-seen and not-want-to-be seen locals and visitors alike.
CRUZADO’s Café and Lounge 366 5th Street Cheers ... Where everybody knows your name! This is one of my new favorite spots. The coziness, location, and nightly vibe make Cruzado’s Café and Lounge the place to go to just unwind, relax and mix and mingle with a great diverse group of Atlantans. The experience begins upon entry with the visually pleasing interiors done by Danto Designs designer, Danny Tovar. Offering some of the best Hookah in the city and a full bar with a Cuban/Caribbean twist, the experience is a city’s one of a kind. Seating no more than 40-50 people at one time, this is the perfect place for a low key evening in the city.
_The Glenn Hotel 110 Marietta Street, NW Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this boutique hotel gives you charm and comfort with top notch service. From the lounge known as The Living Room to the acclaimed Glenn’s Kitchen offering a seasonal American cuisine with a Southern f lair, The Glenn tops off at the SkyLounge rooftop bar with one of-a-kind views of the Atlanta skyline. The Glen also __offers a compelling experience in the heart of a happening city. Its new “Stay With A Friend” campaign sums up the entire experience… comfortable, familiar and very welcoming!
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CIAR A ELLE GO GET IT!
For those of our readers who aren’t privy to the writings of Ciara Elle, brief ly let us know some of your accomplishments and what really inspires you as a writer?
feeling about oneself for being positive in a negative situation.
Within my professional writing career thus far, I have completed three books entitled: Drowning In A Mother’s Womb (which is a trilogy) Go Get It (My most recent release in February 2013) and B.A.I.T which means Believe, Affirm, Inspire and Transcend ( set to be released in October 2013). GO Get It is available via Barnes & Noble, Amazon, IBooks, Ebook and Kindle. You can also log onto my website for book purchases via www. ciaraelle.com
This chapter is ref lecting on different ways to begin on a “Go Get It” path. What inspires me about this chapter is there is a self-assessment that allows you to see how you view things which sometimes can be your hinderance in succeeding in our goals and even blocks us from building goals.
I am continuously inspired to write from experiences , struggles and people who have lived in poverty driven communities in some point of their lives. You currently have a new book entitled Go Get It. Are you making a proclamation? [Laugh Out Loud] Yes, I guess you can say that I am making a proclamation about self-awareness, self-esteem and empowerment within one’s own embody of life. Can you give us a brief synapses of each of your sub-titles and what you want the reader to take from them?
Go Get IT Path
Pessimistic vs. Optimistic That chapter sheds light on the differences between Pessimistic and Optimistic. I want the reader to understand and become fully enable to visualize the importance of being Optimistic. Hustle….Hustle Hard I love this chapter name! Its exactly that....Hustle...Hustle hard. No matter what you choose to do in life, go hard or go home. I want the reader to gain some sense of motivation while embracing their current situation. Life and Love The “Life and Love” chapter teaches you that it is important to constantly embrace life and love even during the bad days as you would approach the good days.
28-day Challenge This chapter is a challenge for you as the reader, to not to say anything negative for 28 days, and if you do, you will follow up with a positive statement following such negativity. Breaking the negative bridge in yourself! My hope is the reader will see a difference in responses and
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Let Go I added this chapter due to over the years and experiences I have come to witness or be apart of; some people fail to succeed because of barriers, or past failures. Whatever the USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
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case may be I just want readers to let go of anything holding them back. Forgive…Live…Give The chapter seemingly piggy backs on the Let Go chapter. In life, we are faced with many adversities and barriers, some of which people may feel is overwhelming. Some of those barriers are caused by unforgiveness. I urge readers to forgive, so you can live and once you’ve figured that part out, give back to help someone else. Mind Over Matter Often times we get so caught up in chaos (matter) that it drains the mind. It should never reverse, it should always be mind over matter. I hope that the reader learn to differentiate between the two. Aspiration. Inspiration…Motivation This chapter is inspired by my “Go Get It” created. This chapter teaches you to surround your aspirations by inspiration and motivation. @Ciara_Elle IG: itsciaraelle FB: itsciaraelle
Now Or Never I encourage the readers to take a stand Now or Never. Get Fit For Life In life, we struggle with many different challenges, one of which I think people are uncomfortable with themselves which is sometimes caused by insecurities, and insecurities are sometimes caused by low self-esteem. I offer workout suggestions as well as self esteem boosters.
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Mentality I titled this chapter “Mentality” because that is what we are driven by, our mentality. I hope the readers understand the importance of a positive mentality, and how far our mentality alone will take us. Do you consider yourself a religious or spiritual person? If so, do you have daily inspirations which guide you through your day? I believe in Christianity, but there is still a lot that I am learning with such religion. For the most part Christianity is my faith base. For those who are seeking a higher purpose or enlightenment, what do you say to them? Continue to seek your higher purpose, and don’t stop until it feels like joy, that is when you will know you have reached what you were seeking. What other projects do you have in the works? Books, books and more books [Laughs Out Loud]. I also ASPIRE to open a mentoring facility, write a script for the first book I penned. Lastly, I will be developing a fashionable swimwear line for women of ethnicity.
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GET FIT With Joseph Johnson How important is health, fitness, eating right and looking good? Health, fitness, eating right and looking good are very important to me. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which encompasses all those areas have been a mantra of my life since age 12. My goal is to lead a healthy life and in doing so, help others attain their fitness goals.
Health is my number one reason for accomplishing the goals I have attained thus far. Without good health, my dreams will not become a reality. Being healthy allows me to remain focused on my goals. Having good health also gives me mental clarity and physical strength in my daily tasks and workout routines. Being one who is aware of the importance of health and its effect on my well-being, I strive each day to eat a balanced diet; rich in nutrients, coupled with a four-day- a-week workout regimen. Fitness plays a very important role in my daily life. As a Competitive Sport Enthusiast, it is important for me to be in the best shape at all times. And as a certified personal trainer, physique competitor, power lifter and fitness model, fitness plays an integral part in my competitions. It determines my capability of winning. Eating right is paramount to my success. On a daily basis, I incorporate a healthy balanced diet, which is Eating right is paramount to my success. On a daily basis, I incorporate a healthy balanced diet, which is always at the top of my list. Nutrition is absolutely important for the body as I have created a Nutritional Plan that I utilize daily. Without proper nutrition, I would not have been able to remain healthy and fit.
Looking good at all times is one of my top priority. One “never gets a second chance to make a first impression.� I usually seize the opportunity to look my best for all occasions. Photo By JNAWSH Photography
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DAILY WORK-OUT REGIMENT My daily work-out regiment entails the following: warm up with lunges and jumping jacks for 3-5 minutes. Dynamic stretches, 3-5 minutes, 45-60 minutes of full body training, 10-15 minutes high intensity interval training (cardio), At least 8-15 repetitions for 3 sets on compound exercises. Cool down 3-5 minutes. Complete the work out within 45-60 minutes. Any Tips You Care to Share about Your Work-out? Define your fitness goals. Be prepared. Be committed. Be resilient.
BEST FEATURES My physique and resilience are my two best features. I am always complimented on my physique. People sometimes approach me about my physique and ask me to be their personal trainer. I am resilient; never gave up on the goals I have set to accomplish.
WHAT’S NEXT There are a number of interests that I have been pursuing. For example, one of my career goals is to become an International Federation of Body Building (IFBB) Pro Physique Athlete. I am also preparing for the upcoming USAPL RAW Nationals Power Lifting and NPC Physique Competitions in July and October 2013. Finally, I am in the process of expanding my fitness business. Photo By Jan Freire www.jjfourfitness.com
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