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THE URBAN D EFINITION OF STYLE 2 0 1 4 S / S CO L L E C T I O N
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UNER SPAIN
DJ STYLE
TRILOGY ISSUE OUT NOW AT USLMAG.COM
EC TWINS U.K.
DJSTYLE
TRILOGY ISSUE OUT NOW AT USLMAG.COM
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pa tr i ck a.kellys
A USL BR AN DS INITI ATIV E
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Art Director The Editor’s Note Anna Hajiyev
Patrick Kelly
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Best of 2013 In Music Bigg Von on Ice Cube
Daw n Richard, Mathai f rom The Voice, The Boston Boys, Ed Tang, The Chops...
Meeting a Hip-Hop Legend and Enter tainment Mog ul
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DJ Rap Big Tigger
An Exclu sive Inter v iew With London’s D&B DJ
An Exclu sive Inter v ice w ith the T V/Radio Host and Hip-Hop DJ
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DJ Fadelf Best Of 2013 In Entertainment
An Exclu sive Inter v iew w ith the New York Chari smatice Lifest yle DJ
W hy Are Pro-Athletes Going Broke and V H1 Love & Hip-Hop Realit y Star Karlie Redd Jef f Timmon s of the hit boy band 98 Deg rees, the Men of The Strip men and Brit tany Mason, Kaki West and Leilene Ondrade are coming to USL Men’s Quar terly - spring i ssue..
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TOSH YANEZ
MOUNTAIN MAN EDITORIAL
60 A Different Kind of Fashion
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J Tahou on Music Biz & Black Eyed Peas
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Best of 2013 in Lifestyle: 10 Things That Makes A Goodlooking Man Unattractive, 5 Hot Spots In Atlanta 7
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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, Wilf Libgott Independent Music Promotions Music Reviews Producer Papa
FASHION Wardrobe Brunello Cucinelli , David Yurman, Goorin Bros, Saint Laurent Parisi, Gucci, Dover Saddlery, H&M, Marc Jacobs, Ne c romanc e (L o s Angels ) , Joh n Var v ato s , Bu r b er r y, True Religion, Dolce and Gabbana, Anthony Franco, Custo Barcelona 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 Art Director Anna Hajiyev Contributing Graphic Editor IAMMEDIA Photo Editor John MacKenzie, Nieman Tate Contributing Writers Patrick Kelly, Christopher Mobley, James W. Brashears III, Wilf Ligott, Jean Luc Tahou, Bigg Von Contributing Photographers Anna Hajiyev Photography, Karlos Matthews, Jeffery Andre, Iphototaker, Hyun Gu Kim, Paul Albert, Stan Redfern, Michael Eaton, Insana Collins Special Thanks: Gig Tigger, Tosh Yanex, DJ Rap, DJ Fadelf, Jean-Luc Tahou, Chanel Harris, JC Riley, August Mapp, Producer Papa, Anna Hajiyev, Christopher Mobley, Karlos Matthews, Bigg Von, Wilf Libgott , 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 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 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.
Mailing / Production Address 1244 Weston Dr Ste 1A, Decatur GA. 30032 Corporate Address 3525 Piedmont Road, 7 Piedmont Center 3rd Floor, Atlanta, GA, 30305 United States
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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 summer of 2014.
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1ST CELEBRITY COVER / MAR 2011 S E C T I O N
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ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING FEATURES! SKY NELLOR
FORMER GUESS MODEL & CELEBRITY DJ
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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.
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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.
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 - Thi s i ssue feat ures Big Tigger on the cover. Tigger has always been a staple at BET (Black Enter tainment Telev i sion cable net work) since I can remember and he’s credited for being at the foref ront of Hip-Hop’s hi story, boasting relevant Hip-Hop stars on BET’s f irst Hip Hop mu sic T V show “Rap Cit y: Tha
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Basement.” Aside from his BET gigs, Tigger is a uniquely talented DJ and radio personality. I asked him to give me five things he would tell a artist to look out for if they’re trying to get into the biz and he said, “Get a good lawyer/manager cuz these dudes is shady.” Take notes people, because this advice is of the utmost importance and should not be taken lightly. USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
M A G A Z I NE
MUSIC
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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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.
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US L CHOICE
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M I XTA PES T O A D VERTIS E H E R E : A DV ERTISE@US L M A G .C O M
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NEW MUSIC S E C T I O N
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DAWN
RICHARD
[
]
OF DANITY KANE & DIDDY DIRTY MONEY
GAMBLED GOING INDIE & WON BY PATRICK KELLY
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MUSIC BEST OF S E C T |I O N T I T L E2013
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hhe music industry is one of the hardest industries to break into, and gain success. And while there are so many talented people out there vying for discovery; vying for success and fame, one would do better playing the lottery than become a pop-star. At least with the lottery, you only have to purchase a ticket and pray that your number comes up and not go through the rigors of chasing fame and fending off con-artists, crooks and liars. The cost is minimal; not the exorbitant amounts major labels spend on their acts to recoup advances and build revenue. Lets not even speak on the fact that so many of your favorite major artists, including the ones you see on TV and being chased by the paparazzi, may not be as rich and extravagant as they appear to be. They may not be in the most agreeable contracts, at least not for them that is; signing their lives away for the glitz and bragging rights. The independent music business isn’t any better because all imprints or indies with major distributions have major label backing. Those indies (labels and artists) who aren’t privy to the backing of a major label may not have the funds to promote a good quality record after being properly mixed and mastered. And indie artists without a label, well, they are just in dire situations. They are trying to rub pennies together for a descent EP or mix-tape. Like the economy, many are in a financial down-turn, not being able to afford real production, properly mixed and mastered songs, $500 for a good website, $300 for a descent photographer or even $100 for a properly designed promotional f lyer. Most of them find themselves taking the cheap route only to net an unfavorable return. Promotion is the key for success in the music industry, and it causes many independent labels and artists alike to go limp, because of the lack thereof. And while the internet have had a more favorable effect on artists wanting to produce and sell their own music, the major labels have a better advantage over the indies because they’ve been at it longer. They have more money, connections and know how to play the game. Plus, most indie labels and artists don’t have the proper administrative and legal support, promotional budget,
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tour-support, recognition and placement to become successful. Now if one just happens to have been signed to a major label, had success and is now traveling the daunting road to the other side, their luck is a lot better than a no name artist. At least these once major artists have name recognition, somewhat of a cash reserve, depending of whether they were screwed in their contracts or not, and a substantial following on social media; which is an invaluable thing to have as an artist. Lets just say that having a built-in fan-base, great music, great photos and promo-videos shot with a canon DSLR can work wonders for the success of an indie artist. In this issue we are so proud to feature on our 16th cover Miss Dawn Richard, who have been a part of Danity Kane and Diddy Dirty Money. Dawn released her debut album “Goldenheart” on her very own indie label Our Dawn Entertainment, which was majorly produced by Andrew “Druski” Scott. “Goldenheart” hit No. 1 on the iTunes R&B album chart and other subsequent successes from the album followed, including 1 million+ video views on Youtube and a distribution deal with Altavoz. She is to be commended for her efforts, because that was a very BRAVE thing to do! Going solo after being in two successful groups takes kahunas! Going solo and indie at the same time; some may consider this a death wish in comparison to major label figures. But Dawn was BRAVE and determined to head her own label and “make it work” with her few counter-parts at the helm. We’ve had the opportunity to sit down with Dawn Richard in a Q&A and this is what she had to say… Love. Loss. Redemption. How significant are these three words to you and how have they paved the way to you finally becoming the solo artist? They are words that define moments in my life; words that are so familiar, I feel, in most people’s lives. I took these words and made them Frames to an empty canvas. And with my music I started painting. Continue reading online at www.uslmag. com USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
MUSIC | BEST M A G AOF Z I 2013 NE
SINGER & THE VOICE CONTESTANT
MATHAI
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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). “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!” Photo By: NBC
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“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
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.”
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MUSIC BEST OF S E C T |I O N T I T L E2013
BROOKLYN’S THE BOSTON BOYS
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.
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rooklyn’s electrified bluegrass/folk rock group The Boston Boys, who formed as a quartet while attending the Berkley School of Music in 2009, released 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
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MM AU GS A IZC I N E
Bigg Von: Meeting A Hip-Hop Legend and Entertainment Mogul
I
met O’Shea “Ice Cube” Jackson in 2007! I was at Radio One’s 105.9 FM station in Detroit, Michigan, sitting in my caddy bangin’ some beats in front of the station. I had a radio interview set-up with one of the radio personalities to get all my new music and beats played. So I’m bangin’ some crazy hot beats when I see Ice Cube, Mac 10, WC, and DJ Crazy Tunes coming out the front door. I started bangin’ a beat produced by one of my producers’ Symphony when Cube walked pass, heard it and asked were they my tracks. Of course I said “yes sir” and he asked if he can get the CD, that he liked what he heard. Now mind you, that beat CD had about 25 beats on it. But to get to work with the legendary Ice Cube, it could have had 60 beats on it and I wouldn’t care.
About Bigg Von: Von started his own production and publishing company We Got Hits Publishing and Productions in Atlanta - going 10 years strong. And it has had many successes to include works for: Ice Cube, Kevin Gates, Grand Hustle artist T.I., B.O.B., R&B singer Sevyn, Netta Breille, Scarface, Obie Trice, Bone Crusher, Jill Scott, Raheem Devyne, Meek Mills, Lil Wayne and Birdman, Mc Lyte, Tito Lopez, Eminem, Acehood, Shawty Lo,Havoc, Royce 5,9, Slim of 112,Pittbull, Flo-Rida,50 Cent, Sunshine Anderson, Sky Jasper, Nipsey Hussle, Michelle Anderson, Tre songz, and productions to appear on BET, MTV, VH1, Bravo, Tru TV and Spike TV. Shout-Outs: To my Grammy winning, platium producer Magnedo7, and the team Big Soj, Checkboy, Yung Fokus, Sparkz the Trakman and Carti Hit Leaugue. Slogans: It takes teamwork to make the dream work! You need a hit, we got it!
So I ended up taking a picture with Cube and exchanging numbers and ever since then, I’ve been a part of his past albums starting with “Raw Footage.” Shout-out to my homie Symphony! We’re now working on Ice Cube’s newest album “Everything’s Corrupt,” due out January 2014 and we have multiple records on it, which I cannot disclose right now. USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
Connect with We Got Hits Productions: Twitter: @grammyproducers Facebook: AllwaysMakeItHappen or Email: Makeithappenmngt@gmail.com.
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JAN-FEB DJ STYLE TRILOGY
ISSUE COVERED BY
UNER, BIG TIGGER &THE EC TWINS
W / D J R A P, T O S H Y A N E Z AS M O U N TA I N M A N . . . GET IT IN PRINT & DIGITAL OR READ ONLINE AS A MEMBER! USLMAG.COM 2 1
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LONDON
D&B
DJ RAP EXCLUSIVE BY PAT R ICK K EL LY
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M AM GU AS Z IICN E
U.S.A. DJ
HIP HOP R & B
BIG TIGGER EXCLUSIVE
BY PAT R ICK K EL LY PHOTOGR A PH Y BY INSANA COLLINS
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EDM is HUGE! I’m good at it but wish I was exceptional at it… I see DJ’s spinning in front of 10,000 to 30,000 in stadiums and wish I could get down like that. If I applied myself I could get to that level but I’m not passionate about it like Hip Hop & R&B! I think it’s here to stay but will evolve as it already has with Trap-House, etc… Remixes and nightclub appearances are the bread and butter for any DJ. And successful remixes help build a DJ’s status, provide more work and opportunities. Which of your projects would you say was the most successful (in overhaul experience), and what was the most important lesson learned from that project? USL MAGAZINE | USLMAG.COM
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I would say the 5 years I spent as DJ for the Washington Wizards! It gave me exposure to different groups of people and corporations! That exposure allowed me to spin for the Redskins, Maryland Terps, Kentucky Wildcats, Macy’s, and others… Corporate checks are awesome! What are your top 7 party venues? In no specific order: Reign in Atlanta, Bamboo in Miami, Park in DC, Beamers/ Prive in Dallas, LIV in Miami, Dream in Miami, and Rehab in Vegas. Connect with Big Tigger: Facebook: BigTiggerShow Twitter: @BigTiggerShow Instagram: @BigTiggerShow
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WEST AFRICA
MUSICARTISTS ENTERTAINERS PRO-ATHLETES ALL BILINGUAL
COTE D’VIORE SENEGALGHANA SIERRA LEONE... ON STANDS JUNE 2014 2 7
MM AU GS A IZC I N E
U.S.A TH E CHARISMATICE
DJ FADELF
EXCLUSIVE
BY PAT R ICK K EL LY PHOTOGR A PH Y BY M ICHAEL EATON
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ver been on the dance f loor just feeling the vibe of the music when the DJ switches songs and make you completely lose your mood? You try to get back into the groove, but things just don’t feel right after that. Well, that feeling you’re having is what gets a DJ fired and lose fanbase. A DJ can make or break your club experience, especially if they don’t know how to mix and transition well. We’ve all experienced them! And sometimes we give them a one-time pass because their personality, appearance and energy is on-point. But we usually won’t endure a second infraction and would most-likely move on.
pretty talented. Celebrities tend bar to the masses, while street dancers break-danced in classic old-school hip-hop get-up. Numerous DJ’s took turn at their chance to keep the party going. And most of the sets were off the chain (a throwback word… I know). There was a time during one DJ’s set where he just couldn’t keep the vibe going and we all know what happened then, people left the dance f loor. To make a longer story shorter… I had a great time overall and DJ Fadelf stood out because his crew put me in reminiscence of my stomp-the-yard days in B-More and D.C. His stature and how he handled himself so professionally was noticeable too. But the openness he gave to anyone who came into his bubble was the clincher, and a lasting impression. We often never think how important perception and preconceived notion can build-up or or tear-down one’s image. And, “it’s the smallest things people notice that stays with them the longest…” You never know who’s watching and just because you don’t know someone, it doesn’t mean they aren’t as important as you. Kudos DJ Fadelf.
I can’t tell you how important a great mix is. I think it’s more important than a DJ’s playlist and we all know everyone out clubbing want to hear their favorite songs from artists they idolize. However, a DJ’s appearance, style, ability to mix and transition from one song to the next takes precedence over their playlist, personality and hype, because those things can make or break any club experience. Why? Well, a DJ is the life of the party! They should be able to get the party started, set the mood, f low and level of euphoria club goers experience while out partying.They are also responsible for keeping the party going. DJ’s provide courage and boost for those wanting to appear in control, wearing a persona and looking to get lucky. A good DJ with talent, style and charisma identifies with the in-crowd, and people who feel they are a part of the upper echelon; the beautiful people.
So I had the opportunity to get him to answer a few questions. Some of which are typical, but others like his type, style of deejaying, passion for his craft and others weren’t so obvious. Read for yourself and let us know what you think... Most people can explain explicitly what their love or passion is for why they do what they do. For example, a dancer could say “when I dance, I transcend into my own state of euphoria.” What experience do you feel when you’re at the height of your game (artistry)? The experience that I tend to go through when I reach the peak of my artistry varies in every situation. I enter every atmosphere with a competitive mentality, challenging myself to be better than my last performance. The versatility of my entertainment profile puts me in so many different arenas and around so many different cultures that it makes me excited and eager to hit the stage. I feel my best when I’m performing. When I hit the stage in any platform my alter ego Mr Hypjuice appears and shows out!
This was how I identified with DJ Fadelf and one of the reason’s why I decided to feature him in this issue? I’ve seen his face around at a few events he happened to deejay. One event in particular was the Mix Masters event in Atlanta, during the BET Hip-Hop Awards weekend. Thanks to a colleague, James Brashears III, who invited us out; we were able to witness one of the most unique party experience I think I’ve ever witnessed, aside from Givenchy and Loreal Paris parties in Miami. There were actual artists (painters) at the red carpet painting there idea of what mix-master meant to them, and they were
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How would you describe your style of deejaying?
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ENTERTAINMENT OF 2013 M A G A |ZBEST I NE
L I F E A F T E R T H E G AM E WITH DETROIT LIONS
LAMAR CAMPBELL By Patrick Kelly
M
any professional athletes are going belly-up after a few years in retirement. Why is that? Why are so many of them African Americans who played the game well, were once superstar athletes with millions of adorning fans and are now just “regular broke folks?” Is it just blatant mismanagement of funds, Bad investments, baby mama drama or are they still trying to live the superstar lifestytle on a prime rib diet? While some do have that infamous baby mama drama (Terrell Owens on back child support), there Is no reason why these athletes should be broke after earning millions of dollars during the span of their careers. Take retired Major League Baseball player Otis Nixon for instance. He was just arrested in Atlanta for crack possession, and could not come up with $11,000 for his bail. Mind you, Otis earned aproximately 19 million dollars from 1989 to 1999. Former “Dirty Bird” Atlanta Falcons star Running Back Jamal Anderson, who earned over 70 million dollars during the span of his NFL career, just lost his 10 bedroom mansion in Atlanta due to foreclosure. And Terrell Owens, former Dallas Cowboys star Wide Receiver, earned an approximate 54 million dollars during his NFL career, yet he’s doing community service because he can’t pay his back child support. But the clincher is Philadelphia 76ers star Guard Allen Iverson. This pro athlete earned a whopping 150 million dollars during the span of his career and now he’s crying in Black Enterprise that he’s so broke, he can’t afford a hamburger. Honestly, I wished these pro athletes had taken a page from former Detriot Lions Defensive Back Lamar Cambell. He wasn’t privy to superstardom or having a multi-million dollar contract, but he got his head in the game, created a plan for himself so he could transition from the NFL to real life; he got a business degree from Wharton’s. Let’s talk about the nest egg. It really doesn’t matter if you’re
making $200,000 or $4,000,000 a year, you do have a lot of athletes who go into pro sports making all this money, but don’t have the financial literacy to invest properly and spend wisely. When their career is over, a lot of them are broke as hell. How did you educate yourself about financial literacy? You know what, I was lucky enough to have some really good veterans around me. My family wasn’t the type of family that really talked about finances even though we had the Sunday dinners. They never really said, Lamar make sure you understand credit. I’m going to put this on record to say, in the past, most black families didn’t really educate their kids on credit because there wasn’t an understanding of credit. It didn’t matter where you’re from then. I’m from the islands, but I grew up in the U.S. and we never talked about credit. It was like, what’s that? I learned about credit when I went away to college and began receiving a bunch of credit card offers in the mail and the effects of not paying those bills on time. You get those credit cards in college and all you’re saying to yourself is, this is free money and not realizing you have to pay it back. You don’t really understand credit or the importance of credit until you have to buy that first car or that first home. Then unfortunately, if you’re a ball player, you have enough money to just pay those debts off so you never really understand how it affects your credit and that how much you pay in finance charges is really determined by how well you pay your bills. You do have a lot of guys who go into the NFL not educated about their financial future. They’re ignorant. They just don’t know because no one ever taught them about handling their finances. Say you have a mom on welfare with two kids. People complain about how they don’t understand why she stays on welfare and not go get a job. What they fail to realize is that once you’ve been on welfare for a long period of time, you get hooked, complacent and have a lack of... Continue reading online at www.uslmag.com.
WHY ARE
PRO ATHLETES GOING BROKE
AFTER THE GAME?
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SPRING ISSUE - OUT LATE FEB 2014
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ENTERTAINMENT S E C T I O N T| IBEST T L E OF 2013
AN INTERVIEW WITH
KARLIE REDD OF VH1’S Love & HIP HOP ATLANTA Interview By Christopher Mobley
You’ve seen her on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop Atlanta You’ve already heard her hot singles ‘Louie, Prada,Gucci’ and ‘A Girl Has Needs’ on the airwaves. You might even know a couple of ladies who are looking f ly thanks to her line of lip-gloss and hair. She is the beautiful, multi-talented Ms. Karlie Redd and USL Magazine recently had the pleasure of interviewing the star. Without a doubt, you do have the good looks regardless of age. But everyone from fans and the people on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop Atlanta seem to have made a big deal about your age. Anything you would like to say to them? I’m glad I’m not revealing my age; because it makes more people talk about me and want to know more. “The more you keep yourself a mystery, the more people want to know. But I’m not going to give them what they want.” As far as everyone else, they’re just Hating. I’m not 50 or 40. They just try to guess because I don’t tell them my age. A lady never tells her age. So people are going to hate, especially if they’re the same age as you. K. Michelle is the same age as me, but obviously she won’t put that on herself, she would rather put attention towards me. But that’s okay; she can keep her name in her mouth. Can you tell us more about your new Redd Line Hair and Redd Lip Gloss? Of course, Redd Lip Gloss is my own brand of lip gloss.
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K. Michele is the same age as me, but obviously she won’t put that on herself, she would rather put attention towards me.
Redd Line Hair is something that I wanted to do because a lot of ladies out there were always asking me about my hair and telling me that it was beautiful. Even though I do have long hair, I wear weave to protect my own hair. So I decided to put out my own line for the ladies to see what I’ve been doing, how my hair looks and give themselves a little touch of Karlie Redd. We have already heard your singles ‘Louis, Prada, Gucci’ and ‘A Girl Has Needs.’ Can we expect an album or new single in the near future? Yes, my album is coming soon and I’m putting out a diss record in a few weeks. Really! Who is the victim in the record going to be? You’re just going to have to wait and see. Trust me, you will be surprised. What really made you want to get into the music industry in the first place? What other producers and artists have you been working with? I wanted to do it since I was a little girl and I’ve always had a talent for singing and song writing. I’ve worked with a lot of different artists and producers. Currently, I’m working with T-Pain, but I’ve worked with... Continue reading online at www.uslmag.com.
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LIFESTYLE 2013 M A| GBEST A Z I N OF E
10 THINGS That Makes A Good Looking Man Unattractive By Wilford G.
1 2 3 UNEMPLOYMENT So it seems that unemployment was the biggest no-no that would make a good-looking man unattractive. But I ask, is the unemployment due to the down-turn in the economy or is he just a loser looking to be supported by anyone who adores his special features? From our survey, women really have a particular interest in this question and they despise a broke man!
B A D - H YGI E N E Both women and gay men had a big issue with a good-looking man having bad hygiene. Honestly, if you’re a good looking anybody, you’re halfway there. Why would you mess up all that goodness by being smelly? Some people may like a little musk, but cheesy you know what’s aren’t tasty at all. I’m a man… I know! And I wouldn’t even consider not washing mines before a professional!
4 5 COCK Y Okay, it seems like many people had issue with good-looking guys using their looks as head-bangers. Nothing detracts from a good looking man than him thinking it’s all about his wants and needs. Personally, give me an ordinary woman or man with great taste, style, smile, and conversation, who knows how to throw down in the bedroom and kitchen.
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LOW CONFIDENCE Woman seems to detest a good-looking man who doesn’t have confidence. I can understand that. Most women in general, look to their man for comfort and protection. They look for a man that can be their superman in public and in the bedroom. After all, who really want to be with someone who isn’t sure of whom he or she is?
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NO STYLE This is an issue gay and straight men chimed in on. I guess they were all good looking. All jokes aside though; a stylish man is appealing and an ordinary one would look even more appealing. So gents, whatever you gotta do to get your game up… do it! Follow us on Pinterest at USLMagazine and get some style tips. You can even go to Lenox Mall and scout the mannequins in Bloomies, Versace, Neimans, and Kenneth Cole. And for those who are thrifty, H&M is located in Atlantic Station (Midtown, Atlanta). Oh, and stylish doesn’t mean having your goodies all out for the whole world to see. I know some of you men use that to advertise, but that is what Facebook, craigslist, instagram and twitter is for; finding anonymous hook-ups. Yeah, I’m talking to all y’all; heads up ladies, girlfriends and wives! Photo By Stan Redfern Model Brian Murphy Stylist Patrick Kelly Warbrobe Ken Barber Make Up By Patrice Story Hair By CJ
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FITNESS Okay, the gay men have this on lock. They want a good-looking man that is fit and healthy. You know what I say about that… get your game up before you search for that Adonis. It seems like most people in general always want a dime when they are only a 5. And big women wanting a skinny man. I really don’t get that, but to each his/ her own! Either way, it’s always my rule to become the personal I want to attract. Then, I’ll have more in common with that personal and I won’t look like a damn fool because I get caught in lieing about who I’m pretending to be. I will be honest and truthful!
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BAD ATTITUDE Both woman and gay men chimed in on this one as. They said they hate good-looking men who have a bad attitudes. I must concur! A good-looking man would seem very ugly if he has a nasty attitude. So to all the good looking guys out there, if you have a bad attitude because you know you look good and everybody wants you; not really! This makes you uglier than the most unattractive person on earth. Matter-of-fact, you would be thee ugliest person on earth!
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BAD TEETH This is really huge for gay men. They said no bad teeth here. Honestly, everybody should say no to bad teeth. At some point in your life, you should be able to afford to go to the dentist. It’s no excuse that your teeth are bad and you try to make up for it because you’re really good looking. Man, get a grip and get that mug fixed! And while you’re at it, get them whittened too. A CHEAPSKATE Woman and gay men chimed in on this once again. I guess nothing is uglier than a good-looking man that’s a cheapskate. I must say I’m allergic to cheap people. I consider myself a very thoughtful person who gives really nice gifts. So, if I give you an expensive gift, dammit, I want one as well. You know what I hate even worst is someone who always wants gifts, but don’t ever think to give you one in return. I guess there’s a name for that – gold digging cheapskate!
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The ultimate no-no is any man wanting to have sex without using a condom. 4 5
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U N TI DI N E S S Rounding off the top 10 list is an “untidy man.” Everyone chimed in on this one. They said hell no to the untidy good-looking man! This seems to be a common thing for men in general. You have a lot of guys out there who love looking good, but are messy as hell. They don’t keep their pads clean at all. Their cars are cleaner than where they live. And women, shame on you! How can you date a guy, go to his house and see that mess and still sleep with him. I had a roommate years back; good looking guy, who had the same personality. Men, clean-up where you home! USLMAG.COM | USL MAGAZINE
LIFESTYLE M A| GBAEZS ITN O EF 2013
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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