AVAILABLE SPRING 2014 www.skinnieandfine.com
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
pa tr i ck a.kellys
A USL BR AN DS INITI ATIV E
CONTENT
9 12
The Editors’ Note Mu sic: USL Choice Mathai The Boston Boys Mag nedo7 Ft. St ylez Arc and Stones Joshua Worden Ed Tang & The Chops Kev in Jenkin s Kalm Kaoz Billy Mc Nicol Aurganic DJ Joop Ft. Fuzzi Kit tenz
Patrick Kelly
26
Cover Feat ure Dawn Richard
Gambled Going Indie and Won By Patrick Kelly
48 30
Lifestyle Entertainment
Rappers: Do They Act ually Lear n From Controversy?
Destination Atlanta
WWW.USLMAG.COM 4
JAN/FEB S E C T I O N
T I T L E
TOSH YANEZ 5
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
A USL BRANDS INITIATIVE Editor-In-Chief PATRICK KELLY Art Director ANNA HAJIYEV Photo Director KARLOS MATTHEWS
ONLINE Web Editor Sumitava Nayak Production Manager IAMMEDIA Video Content George Anghelescu
MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT Ra-Fael Blanco, The MI3 Agency, Wilf Libgott, Kamil Kwiatkowski, Independent Music Promotions Music Reviews Producer Papa
FASHION
Wardrobe BeBe, Steve Madden, H&M, Marc Jacobs, Christian Louboutin, True Religion Stylists Faheem Mills, Brittany J’Na, Fade, Patrick Kelly, Nieman Tate Make-Up Patrice Story, Kristina Ross, Amina Jordon, Dani Scarcella, Angelique Cerniglia, A’naneic Dobyne Hair Calvaniece Mason, Edony Rose, Omisha Daniel, CJ, Dani Scarcella, Veronica Hernandez
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, Jean Luc Tahou, Darius Church, Stephen Williams, 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.
Publisher USL Magazine is a USL Brand initiative owned By SEIDEMG KDS LLC., OPER ATED BY TPKC Cu stomer Ser v ice For cu stomer ser v ice, change of address, subscription ser v ices and or single purchase inq uiries, please contact u s at 1(404) 478-9863 Ex t. 704 or email u s at info@u slmag.com
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.
Advertise To advertise is USL Magazine, please contact us at advertise@uslmag.com
Mailing / Production Address 1002 Lena St, Atlanta GA 30314
Stylist / MUA / Designer / Photography / Creative / Writers Contribution To contribute to USL Magazine, please send sample of your work to Editor@uslmag. com. Once approved, we will request that you send you complet work by Dropbox to editor@uslmag. com.
Corporate Address 3525 Piedmont Road, 7 Piedmont Center 3rd Floor, Atlanta, GA, 30305 United States 1 (404) 478-9863
Major Artist Submission / Features If you’re a major label artist and would like to appear in USL Magazine, please have management or your PR firm to send us a complete media-kit including high resolution photos to editor@uslmag.com
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.
Independent Artist Submission If you’re an independent artist and would like to appear in USL Magazine “USL Choice List,” please have management or your PR firm to send us a complete media-kit including high resolution photos to editor@uslmag.com.
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 Jan 5, 2014.
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
6
S E C T I O N
T I T L E
MUSIC TELEVISON THAT IS DEFINITELY
REDEFINED! Coming Spring 14
WWW.1PKC.COM 7
E A R T DM IA GRA ZEI N C TOR
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.
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
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
8
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.
S E C T I O N T I T L E EDITO R-IN-CHIEF
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 - I thought Diddy Dir t y Money was a joke. However, g iv ing Diddy i s props, he made a sound judg ment in including Daw n Richard and Kaleena in the g roup. I thought it was amazing how they came together to make mu sic people weren’t ready for, but did it so well.
9
From Danity Kane to Diddy Dirty Money and now an indie artist on her very own label, Richard speak on Goldenheart and the road to winning after the majors. “Passion brings fire to the soul. I had a voice. I wanted it to be heard. An artist needs that outlet. Each album I find amazing new talents and hidden gems along the way.” - Dawn Richard
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
MUSIC
A ZI A ISH LING Photo By Karlos Matthews
“
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
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
1 0
S E C T I O N
T I T L E
Music
Releases Reviews Reposts Note: Find mu sic release, rev iews, reposts and repor t on local, national, indie and inter national ar ti st online at w w w.u slmag.com.
Repor ts Feat ures 1 1
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
USL CHOICE INDIE
12 INDIE ARTISTS
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
MATHIA THE BOSTON BOYS MAGNEDO FEAT. STYLEZ ARC AND STONES JOSHUA WORDEN ED TANG & THE CHOPS KEVIN JENKINS ILTORO KALM KAOZ BILLY MC NICOL AURGANIC JOOP FEAT. FUZZI KITTENZ
1 2
M A G A Z I NE
MUSIC
SINGER & THE VOICE CONTESTANT
About Mathai: “Sharon Mathai, known professionally as Mathai, was a contestant on the second season of NBC’s The Voice. Born on November 27, 1992 in Queens, NY, Mathai is the first generation of her family (who hail from Kerala, India) born in the United States.”
MATHAI
“Singing was always considered more of just a hobby for Mathai. Classically trained in jazz during her childhood, Mathai started developing her unique vocal style around the age of 16 with a sound reminiscent of such artists as Billie Holiday, Norah Jones, Nelly Furtado and Adele, although two of her biggest inf luences are Johnny Cash and Amy Winehouse.”
“
Recorded at renowned music facility, Icon Studios (seen on Love & Hip Hop Atlanta, Real Housewives of Atlanta and R&B Divas) and the popular Music House recording studios, “Girl Like Me” features eight original songs on which Mathai, a top ten finalist on NBC’s “The Voice”, collaborated with Grammy Award Winning recording engineers/ producers Dru Castro (India Arie, Musiq Soulchild) and Pierre Medor (Usher, Brandy, Mary J Blige).
“Last year, Mathai collaborated with Lecrae on the track “Free From it All” from Gravity, which was released September 4, 2012 and peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200. The album subsequently was nominated and won as Best Gospel Album for the 2013 Grammy Awards.” Connect with Mathai: Twitter:@Mathaimusic Instagram: @thisismathai Facebook: Mathaimusic Youtube: Mathaimusic
“Every time I think about the EP I get into little-girl-freakout mode”, remarked Mathai. “It’s been culminating for so long, and today it is hidden no longer. This is a work of art, and every song required a piece of my heart. Couldn’t be happier, couldn’t be more pumped!” “According to her management team, music industry veterans Ian Burke and Stone Stafford of BurkeStone Entertainment, “Within approximately 2 years, Mathai has gone from obscurity and being a nursing student to being a semi-finalist on a hit TV singing competition show and releasing her debut EP. With a couple of pretty big situations in the works, Mathai shows no sign of slowing down!” “Stafford continued, “Every song on “Girl Like Me” is a glimpse into her life and story. There is a song on this EP that everyone could identify with and, of course, she delivers it in the beautifully unique and distinct sound that fans in both the US and around the world have come to recognize and love.”
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
1 4
S E C T I O N
BROOKLYN’S THE BOSTON BOYS
T I T L E
The Boston Boys formed as a quartet while attending the Berkley School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts in 2009. After three years of consistent and regular performance in the Boston area, The Boston Boys were honored to perform as one of the seven bands nationally selected for the campaign to re-elect President Obama. Following the recording of their first EP, What You Say?! in 2012, the band embarked on five week tour the Middle East and North Africa sponsored by the American Music Abroad program and the U.S. State Department. Acclaimed as a highly eclectic, dynamic, and technically proficient band, The Boston Boys will release their second EP, Keep You Satisfied in October, 2013.
B
rooklyn electrified bluegrass/folk rock group The Boston Boys, who formed as a quartet while attending the Berkley School of Music in 2009, releases their new EP “Keep You Satisfied.”
The Boston Boys harness bone-shaking grooves, sing soulful melodies, and melt the genres of soul, rock, jazz, Americana, blues, and pop into a fine example of captivating, modern American music. A unique instrumentation, musicianship, and a fearless attitude toward performance keep audiences engaged across generations and cultures. This music is called “Future Roots” because it is fresh and original, while expressly building upon great musical tradition.
Listen to their latest music onlune at www.uslmag.com. Official (http://www.thebostonboys.com) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheBostonBoys) Instagram (http://instagram.com/bostonboysband) Twitter (https://twitter.com/BostonBoysBand) Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/bostonboysofficial
1 5
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
MUSIC
MAGNEDO 7 FEAT.
STYLEZ
G
rammy award winning producer Magnedo7 releases his first single “Employer,” a hot club banger off his upcoming album “Ignorant Bliss.” The single features an up-and-coming, Jamaican born, reggae artist by the name Stylz, whose also a part of Magnedo7′s camp. Michael Crawford known as “Magnedo7” was born November 7, 1983 in Winston Salem, NC. His love for music came at an early age and his musical gifts and abilities were prevalent by the age of 2. In Middle School he started writing and producing. He formed various groups; Gospel and Hip Hop.
Michael won his first Grammy for the production on Eminem’s album in 2011. Many industry insiders have called his production style “The Next Sound In Music.” His musical style is versatile and ranges from every genre including pop, rock, hip hop and r&b.
Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Science from NC A&T University in 2007 with a concentration in classical piano. He is an accomplished pianist, bassist, guitar, organist and composer. Music has afforded him opportunities to travel both in the states and abroad.
“Michael is one of the hardest working producers you will ever meet. He credits his success to his faith in God & this quote “Consistency, Persistence, and Stability are the keys to Success!” -M.C.
Michael’s first break in the music industry came with his production; “Blow the Band”, on Jim Jones’ Album. His producer credits have since grown including, Jay-Z, Currency, Royce Da 5’9”, Tre Da Truth, Bonecrusher, 50 Cent, Ice Cube, E Ness (Making the Band), Twista, (Sony/BME/Columbia/Koch) Young Buck, Hot Rod (G-Unit/Interscope), the legendary Camp Lo (Motown), and Eminem (Shady-Aftermath/ Interscope), which won Best Rap Album of the year at the 53rd Grammy Awards 2010.
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Listen to “Employer” online at www.uslmag.com.
1 6
N
NYC ARC AND STONES and Cramer relocated to New York City to begin writing and recording what is now their debut five song EP, “Arc & Stones EP.” During the summer of 2012, Pellarin and Cramer’s mutual friend from college, Eddy Bayes, coincidentally moved up to New York City and began playing bass for the band. The three members eventually completed their lineup after finding their drummer, Joe Doino, from an ad online. By the end of the summer, Arc & Stones, was officially born.”
YC 4-piece indie rock/blues group Arc & Stones, who have gone from humble beginnings to major venues and significant buzz over the past 6 months, released their self-titled EP with videos and a national tour. Currently on the last leg of their tour, you can catch Arc & Stones on Oct. 26, 2013 at Scottish Rite Auditorium, Collingswood NJ w/KANSAS and Nov 01, 2013 from 6-9 p.m. at the Copernicus Center, Chicago, IL w/KANSAS.
“Having their sound described as a mix of alternativerock, blues and soul, Arc & Stones deliver hard-hitting music from the heart. The band played their first show in September 2012 and has been making a name for themselves through New York City and as a national touring act.” -I.M.P.
“Arc & Stones is a four-piece rock band from New York City consisting of members Dan Pellarin, Ben Cramer, Eddy Bayes, and Joe Doino. Upon meeting in college in 2010, ideas were tossed around about starting up a band, but it was not until June of 2012 that Arc & Stones would officially begin. Both Pellarin
Listen to Arc & Stones online at www.uslmag.com.
1 7
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
INDIE SOUL R&B SINGER
JOSHUA WORDEN
D
jazz and indie pop with electronic production. The mood is downtempo; the “slow burn”. Inspired by artists such as Frank Ocean, Raphael Saadiq and James Blake, his music and lyrics, though accessible, veer heavily towards introspective and atypical territory. Joshua is a trained musician (in jazz guitar) and, as a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter, he writes, arranges and produces all of his own material.”
own-tempo, electronic, indie-soul artist Joshua Worden releases his new full-length albums filled with slow burners. Entitled “Always This,” the new album has a grown and sexy feel to it. The lyrics are seasoned and the production and song arrangements are well thought out. Syncopated, melodic, funky bass with a thick back-end and soft tones with a rhythmic pzazz, “Alway This” gets a thumbs up from the entire USL team.
“I love music and genuinely believe that it is my path. I feel that music, more than any other pursuit, is the way that I can give back to the world.” -I.M.P.
“Joshua Worden is a solo artist and producer based in Atlanta, GA, whose music is an original blend of R&B,
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Continue reading and listen to music online at www. uslmag.com.
1 8
S E C T I O N
T I T L E
ED TANG & THE CHOPS
N
live shows, EdTang & The Chops have officially brought back the barn-burner.
ew Jersey aggressive folk, rock-indie group EdTang & The Chops releases Goodbye, Zen5, Sushi Dinner. This is a 9 track album that found the band teaming up with famed engineer Alan Douches (My Morning Jacket, Deer Tick, Sufjan Stevens).
The band’s current release “Goodbye, Zen5, Sushi Dinner”, is, according to Tang “An introspective look into the line that separates the dates of a headstone… this is an album about hope, longing, and the waning twilight of youth.” -I.M.P.
EdTang & The Chops are an aggressive folk rock band from Asbury Park, NJ who have been making big waves with their 2013 release, “Goodbye, Zen5, Sushi Dinner”. Fueled by the honest lyrics and rustic melodies of singer/songwriter EdTang, The Chops bring a gritty indie-rock edge that is continually compared to that of The Pogues, Chuck Ragan, and Frank Turner. Known for the wild party atmosphere of their energetic
Continue reading and listen to music online at www. uslmag.com.
1 9
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
M MU U SS II CC
NYC SOUL ARTIST
“That’s why a wide range of musical stars and groups have called on his talent over the years, including Cyndi Lauper, Enrique Iglesias, Taylor Dayne, Vicki Sue Robinson, Graham Parker, Lamya, Black 47, Holly Palmer, October Project, Cliff Eberhardt, Tom Rush and, most recently, blues queen Shemekia Copeland. He’s opened for Michael Jackson, The Police, Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, BB King, and Joe Cocker. Kevin can be heard on dozens of records: Graham Parker’s Steady Nerves, Cyndi Lauper’s Hat Full of Stars, Black 47’s Home of the Brave, Cliff Eberhardt’s Long Road, just to name a few.”
KEVIN JENKINS
N
YC soul artist Kevin Jenkins, who has opened for the likes of Michael Jackson, The Police and BB King would like to introduce his debut release “Step Inside,” which is his first foray on the mic. The project was overseen by popular NYC soul artist and label owner of True Groove, Tomas Doncker.
“Most recently, Kevin has been expanding his horizons by writing his own songs and working on his debut album with global soul master Tómas Doncker. For Kevin, there’s always more to come. You are receiving this email because you accept music submissions for coverage consideration. If you would no longer like to receive “music with depth” from I.M.P, please unsubscribe and accept our apologies.” – I.M.P.
“From Tokyo’s Budokan to London’s famous Albert Hall to NYC’s Madison Square Garden – in his 38 year career, professional bassist Kevin Jenkins has played them all. Whether playing for tens of thousands in a huge arena with a big band or for just a few folks in a quiet café with a trio, Kevin is known for his amazing ability to harmoniously negotiate rhythm and melody f lawlessly and in any format – rock, folk, blues, fusion.”
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Continue reading and listen to music online at www. uslmag.com.
2 0
S E C TMI U O N S I TCI T L E
FREAK FREQUENCY ILTORO
T
The release of the FREAK FREQUENCY EP comes with an intriguing story: Pierantonio Gualtieri aka ILTORO is a talented artist with a deep passion for various forms of dance music. He originates from Italy where he ran two record labels: Urban Mantra for techno productions and Moustake for tech house. He also ran a professional recording studio in Florence. He made records for international pop stars on major labels, and played may live techno club and rave gigs in Italy. In 2002 he quit and moved to the tropical jungle of Koh Panghan, Thailand, home of the Full Moon parties. There he plays exclusive sets at Eden Garden, Guy’s Bar, Light House and special places on remote beaches only accessible by boat. Every Friday people from all around the world find the place to experience a unique event.
ILTORO: “I love to sing and I love melody so I always try to connect this with the electronic dance sound. Melody is an essential part in every style of music for me. I’m attracted to the idea of evolving sound using all the potential of new instruments And mixing that together to reach a new level of harmony. Freak Frequency was born because I was searching for a way to be more musical. I’m a musician and I like to play. Painting a note within a DAW sometimes becomes so boring.. Therefore I changed the software I use from Logic to Ableton Live and I use some Ipad applications which enables me to play live and record the part in the DAW.” Connect: http://www.soundcloud.com/iltoro https://www.facebook.com/iltoromusic http://www.iltoromusic.com
In 2011 ILTORO started to produce new records again and built a new studio in Bangkok to experiment with different sounds using new instruments to make tracks that sound in the moment and live. He loves melody and the human voice.
2 1
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
MUSIC
“GET HAPPY” FT. ASHLEY KEPLER
music label with a driving mandate to support independent artistry. Massive Decks is eliminating the “360” deals prevalent in the music industry, and replacing traditional artist contracts with fair economic partnerships. Massive Decks is a highly strategic label and brand infiltrator – utilizing sophisticated business strategy, as well as traditional label support – to support its artists. Massive Decks, formed in April of 2013, signed both Kalm Kaoz and Motoe Haus, and is continuing to seek out unnoticed mavericks in the dance music industry that are unique, smart, and talented.
KALM KAOZ
K
KALM KAOZ, the Komplextro ‘60s and ‘70s inspired DJ Group hailing from Los Angeles, announce the release of their first EP, K-Hole, and four new singles on the MASSIVE DECKS RECORDINGS label. The first of four singles, “GET HAPPY,” uses the vocals of the talented and radiant Ashley Kepler. Each song will be released together with a special music video. “GET HAPPY“ will be available exclusively on Beatport September 30th and available worldwide on October 14th.
Massive Decks, a sister company to Massive Advisors, is the author of the recently released Massive Advisors’ dance music white paper, “Electronic Dance Music (EDM): The Digital Pangaea”, a market study of the global dance Music market and culture. Continue reading online at www.uslmag.com.
“GET HAPPY” is also the debut release on MASSIVE DECKS RECORDINGS. Massive Decks is a new dance USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
2 2
S E C T I O N
T I T L E
SINGER DRUMMER BILLY MC NICOL
B
eing a break-out artist, few people know who you are. Tell us a bit about yourself?
Just knowing that God has blessed me with the gift of music alone continually keeps me motivated. My motivation also stems from the desire within to become the best I can be. Not everyone can do what we (Musicians/Artists) can do; inf luence people we’ve never met via audio speakers. It is a privilege to create.
My name is Billy McNicol & I am the Drummer-Lead Singer for the Hard-Rock-Funk group Stateol; a project in which I built from the ground up. Eight years ago, I relocated to Los Angeles from Louisville, KY with literally nothing in my pockets. Throughout this tenure, I have fought & scratched to accomplish what many said I could never do on my own; obtain A&R representation with a major label (Warner Bros. Records) & receive A-List Management (Victoria Blake: Tool & Depeche Mode).
You were a drummer at the University of Louisville, how did that help develop you into the drummer you are today? The University of Louisville is rich in Basketball tradition; currently the reigning 2013 National Champions in Men’s Basketball. Playing for Louisville prepared me for the big stage. Every game at the historic Freedom Hall was a sell out (Close to 20, 000 people in attendance each game). While taking the saddle as the “Featured Drummer” for the Louisville Cardinals, the intensity was always there: The crowd, playing on the big screen TV, and jamming with Dick Vitale on ESPN. These experiences definitely give me an edge. Recently, I was invited to return as an alum to play with the Cards at their new Arena... Continue reading the Q&A at www.uslmag.com.
What inf luences your music? I’m inspired by everyday life occurrences. In my lyrics, I touch on life experiences, personal battles, & trials in which I’ve endured throughout my existence. My rhythms are inf luenced by earth & feel. It is my mission to break down walls and unite diverse people together through the groove.How would you describe yourself as an artist and what motivates your artistry?Resilience and determination are words that really describes me.
2 3
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
TORONTO/ NYC ELECTRO
AURGANIC
A
urganic is an experimental electronic/ alternative project of two long-time friends Mike and Leo. Originally high school classmates, they were members in a number of local punk rock bands until life separated them for a number of years. As the time passed the tastes had changed. They reconnected musically in 2010 finding a lot of common ground. This time it was electronica, art rock and jazz that dominated the ideas f lowing from them. Without further ado, the duo recorded instrumental essions in a format of a self-titled EP, discovering how well they complimented each other with Leo’s strong production skills and Mike’s compositional ideas.
Toronto artists. As a result, the new material emphasized the introduction of song writing to the duo’s sound. “Life as a Canvas” was well received by the public, praising the clever mix of live and electronic instruments, as well as pristine technical execution. Riding the creative wave, Aurganic got back into the studio to record a full length follow up “Deviations” featuring the familiar collaborators. The album material puts a strong emphasis on songwriting and vocal oriented ideas but does not lose the signature layered production and rich instrumentation. “Deviations” is to be released on September 24th, 2013. Listen to music and watch videos online at www. uslmag.com.
Taking the project to the next level, Aurganic released a self-produced full-length album entitled “Life as a Canvas” in March of 2012. The album included multiple vocal and instrumental guest appearances from local
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
2 4
S E C TM I OU N STI C I T L E
SEX GRENADE DJ JOOP FEAT. FUZZI KITTENZ
B
JOOP has demonstrated his beat-crafting prowess before, on such productions as “The Future 2013”, “Just One Night”, “The World/Another World”, “Act Of God”, and many more. JOOP’s current solo smash The Future 2013 got massive love from Porter Robinson as he played the beloved anthem on EDC Vegas’ Kinetic Field in front of 100.000+ ecstatic people. Tiestosupported in his global Club Life radio show among tons of other A-list DJs. JOOP’s ability to create bass lines that want to blow up your subs is an undeniable talent. His productions have routinely been supported by Tiësto, Armin van Buuren (A State of Trance), and many more international celebrities.
eing out on tour and seeing the widespread success of his anthemic big-room tracks, JOOP knew that his next bass explosion needed to include a catchy vocal hook and a killer video. Looking for a collaborator, JOOP turned to an old producing buddy, who immediately suggested working with some of his long time friends – enter FUZZI KITTENZ. A meeting was arranged, and after one long night in a sin city club, the concept for SEX GRENADE was born. Just in time to be a mid-summer party anthem, this mischievous monster of a track has pool party written all over it. Big-room bass with a hint of theatrical debauchery sprinkled on top… The crispness of the kick drum will test the abilities of your speakers, and the lyrics are undeniably fun — perfect for heating things up with a cool drink in hand. The club dub edit, on the other hand, is an unabashed big room blaster that will definitely make the DJs drool this festival season.
The Fuzzi Kittenz have blasted onto the scene with their unique, comical/commercial take on both dance and pop music. Their bi-weekly DJ mixes have gained enormous support and accolades, with each one garnering 40-50+ thousand plays within a few days of dropping. Continue reading and watch the video online at www. uslmag.com USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
2 5
M A G A Z I NE
DAWN RICHARD GAMBLED GOING INDIE & WON BY PATRICK KELLY
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
2 6
E N T EMRATGAAI Z N IMNEEN T
RAPPERS:
DO THEY ACTUALLY LEARN FROM CONTROVERSY?
R
By Chris Mobley
ecently rapper Rick Ross said that he hopes that his fellow Maybach Music Group rappers can learn from his recent controversy. The controversy surrounding Rick Ross comes from his lyrics from the song U.O.E.N.O., which led to women’s rights groups protesting him as well as demanding that Reebok cut ties with him. In case you haven’t heard his verse (since it was replaced after the controversy) the line that caused so much backlash was “Put a molly in her champagne, she ain’t even know it. Took her home and enjoyed that, she ain’t even know it.” Without a doubt, using date rape as a punchline in a song is idiotic and reckless at best, especially when you are a successful rapper in the public’s eye with an endorsement deal. However, he claims to have learned his lesson and was quoted saying that it was a learning experience he hopes his fellow MMG colleagues would take from. Rick Ross isn’t the only rapper who have losted an endorsement deal because of reckless lyrics. Lil Wayne also lost an endorsement deal with Mountain Dew because of his controversial (and kind of lame) Emmett Till punchline that he used in Future’s Karate Chop remix.
USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Many people, especially the execs at the companies who give rappers endorsement deals, hope that artists will learn to stay away from controversy and not do things that would harm their image. But let’s be honest for a second. When was the last time you heard about a popular rapper who is talented actually losing a record deal or having his/her career ended for saying or doing something controversial? Yes, there have been rappers who have had their music careers ended because of long jail sentences or situations that caused them to lose street cred, but how many have actually lost their careers due to offending people with their lyrics? So what is the real lesson that is learned? Would the lesson be something along the lines of “Make sure you invest in a good PR rep for situations like this?” Or would “Just apologize and come out with a really hot track” work better? “It will all blow over soon” is the actual lesson that rappers will learn from similar situations of other artists? Maybe whoever said “there is no such thing as bad publicity” was onto something.
3 0
www.lweareultraviolet.org
Both Lil Wayne and Rick Ross issued apologies for their lyrics, and Ricky even said that he hopes that rappers learn from his mistake. However, you have to ask yourself if the apologies were actually genuine and if rappers will actually learn to stay away from controversy for the sake of their careers? There have been so many controversial lyrics and actions done by artists throughout the years that gained negative media attention. T.I. was arrested on gun charges.
Eminem, Tyler the Creator and many other rappers have been under fire in the past for using homophobic slurs in their lyrics. Chris Brown beat up his former girlfriend, Rihanna, gone on twitter rants against bloggers and gotten into brawls with other artists; one of which caused innocent people to get injured. The list goes on and on for Chris Brown, so hopefully you get the point. What do all rappers who have been in these situations have in common? Even if their actions lead them to losing endorsements at the moment, the artists managed to last long enough for the situations to blow over without doing permanent damage to their careers.
S E C T I O N
3 1
T I T L E
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
LIFESTYLE|LEISURE M A G A Z I NE
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
3 2
S E C T I O N
T I T L E
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!
3 3
USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
JAN/FEB COVER M A G A Z I NE
EC TWINS USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
3 4
A DVERTISEMENT S E C T I O N
T I T L E
PURCHASE
THE PRINT & DIGITAL EDITIONS O NL I NE AT U SLMAG. COM
NE W USL I P A D APP COMING TO ITU NES! APPLE IS TRADEMARK OF APPLE, INC., REGISTERED IN THE U.S. AND OTHER COUNTRIES. 3 5
www.olmecaaltos.com