Tour Magazine June 2016 by Tour Magazine

FEATURING THE HEATMAKERZ ANTONIQUE SMITH DRAG-ON PLUS

HOT MODELS DOPE MCs AND MORE!

June 2016

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VOLUME 2.2

REAL PEOPLE DO REAL THINGS

06.2016

CONTENTS FEATURES 6

DEPARTMENTS 4 FRANKIE FLOWERS FOREVER 11 GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EMCEE 25 AGAINST THE ODDS 30 Q&A: AYISHA WILKINS

STRENGTH, LOVE, & PURPOSE

TO WAKE A SLEEPING DRAGON

HARDCORE HIP HOP

HE SAID, SHE SAID

INDUSTRY UNDERGROUND: FRED THE GODSON

MIC CHECK

A TASTE OF CHOCOLATE

EDITOR'S NOTE

VOL. 2 NO. 2 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Thomas “Supreme” Parsons

Bankroll Fresh R.I.P. 8.2.1987 – 3.4.2016

EDITORIAL WEB DESIGNER www.blazonco.com ART COVER ART GRAPHICS Steven Diaz/Evo Graphics DESIGN & PRODUCTION Picante Creative CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Korey Karter page 5 Sir Jones page 7 Michael Hoy Jr. page 25 Manneken pages 26-27 Brittany Graham page 28 Dwayne Powell page 29 London Carmichael page 30 C I R C U L AT I O N SINGLE COPY SALES Kevin Parsons PUBLISHED BY TOUR: REAL PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS MAGAZINE, LLC OWNER Thomas E. Parsons III E-MAIL therealtourmagazine@gmail.com

reoccurring theme in Tour Magazine is diversity. Now more so than ever, because the vast majority of media outlets for our culture are promoting a singular type of Hip Hop and a particular sound. That’s bad. For, if originality is stifled, creativity dies. And, once we stop being creative—we’ve lost. Therefore, I’ve made it my mission to ensure that every issue of Tour Magazine continues to fly in the face of other Hip Hop publications, by giving you a panoramic view of Hip Hop culture. Do you want lyrics? Well, we are giving you Fred The Godson, one of the best lyricists in the game. How about beats? Look no further than the legendary production duo The Heatmakerz. Then, we’ve rounded things off with veteran emcee Drag-On (formerly of the Ruff Ryders), Grammy nominated recording artist & actress Antonique Smith (You know, Faith Evans in Notorious), several talented emcees, and a few hot models. Now that should satisfy your Hip Hop appetite. We will be back in 90 days. But, in the meantime, you can keep up with all things Hip Hop via our website and social media pages. Peace.

www.therealtourmagazine.com PRINTED IN THE USA

Thomas “Supreme” Parsons Editor-In-Chief @teparsons3 TOUR MAGA ZINE

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Frankie Flowers FOREVER Hip Hop manages to throw me a curveball every now and then.

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

Which is that rare emcee that is unlike anyone I’ve ever seen or heard. This curveball is a female artist from outside of Atlanta, Georgia, called Herr. And, as I’ve already stated, she is totally different from everyone that’s come before. Different look. Different sound. Different energy. Just different… Take a glimpse at her Instagram or Twitter accounts (@_herr) and you’ll see what I mean. But, for now you can checkout my interview of her. It’s rather telling.

What are some of the difficulties that you’ve faced while trying to break into an industry that favors male artists? Herr: One of the biggest challenges of course is—because it is a male dominated industry—most of the time, they don’t want to give you a chance. And, if they do give you a chance, they expect something out of you. Do you get what I’m saying? The hardest part really is to get them to listen. But, once you got em, you got em. You know?

I’ve heard Frankie Flowers and I’m quite familiar with your work. But, for the sake of those who haven’t heard your music, tell

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us what makes it different from everything else in Hip Hop. Herr: I would say what’s unique about me, is that I bring me to the table. Like, I’m just bringing a new sound. I consider my sound where a hippie and—you know—a hippie and a kind of, you know, a kind of ratchet… With me—you know what I’m saying—I’ve got my own kind of sound. It’s like Atlanta. I’m the next female out of Atlanta. You know what I’m saying?

Tell us about your most recent project and some of your plans for the future. Herr: Well, with my most recent project, you can just expect the unexpected. If that makes any sense.

I put a lot of time into it. And, I’m very excited to see, you know, how people take to it. I got lyrical music. And, I also have, you know, party music. I have music for a feeling. I’m reaching every angle. As far as the future, you never know what the future holds. I’m working and trying to branch off into other sounds, you know, other genres. You never know what the future holds. But, what I can say is that you can expect a lot of Herr. And, if you haven’t heard of Herr, just know that I’m coming.

Okay. I respect that. Have you considered delving into acting or anything like that? Herr: As of right now, I’m not pursuing

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acting. But, if the opportunity came, I wouldn’t turn it down. I’m willing to try anything. If anything though, as a second career, I would go into fashion. You know, something like that.

Where can your music be found? Herr: Spinrilla, SoundCloud, LiveMixtapes, YouTube… everywhere. It’s everywhere. I’m everywhere. Just type in Herr, H-e-r-r, and it’s going to come up.

Do you have anything else that you’d like to say before you go? Herr: No. Not really. I just want to give a shout-out to Hippy Mob.

What is the Hippy Mob, because I see you post that a lot on Instagram? Herr: Hippy Mob is just a group of us. Some of us rap. Some of us are into photography. It’s just a group of talented individuals, but at the end of the day we are just trying to bring an end to all of the violence. We don’t just smoke. That’s not what we promote. We promote having a good time. We promote our craft. We promote growth. That’s about it.

I like that. Peace. TOUR MAGA ZINE

STRENGTH, LOVE, & PURPOSE

A Look At ANTONIQUE SMITH

ost of our readers know Antonique Smith for her stellar portrayal of Faith Evans in the Hip Hop biopic Notorious, or as the sexy costar of Rick Ross’s “Amsterdam” video. However, those roles don’t do her resume justice. For instance, she starred in the Broadway musical Rent and is a Grammy nominated recording artist— just to name a few of her more notably accomplishments. But, after talking to her, what I found most fascinating was the strength, love, and sense of purpose that seemed to radiate from her spirit. And, I learned that she is BY much more than a pretty face. Antonique is very THOMAS smart, extremely talented, and socially aware. “SUPREME” Below are the key points from my interview PARSONS of the young star. Hopefully, you all will find her as intriguing as I did. Also, be sure to catch Antonique Smith’s latest material on her self-titled YouTube channel. And, you can connect with her on Instagram and Twitter @AntoniqueSmith, as well as, Facebook @AntoniqueSmithFB.

Most Hip Hop fans probably know you for your role as Faith Evans in the film Notorious. Are you a Biggie fan? Antonique Smith: Yeah. I love Biggie. That was an honor to be a part of Biggie’s legacy.

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How challenging was it to portray the wife of a Hip Hop icon? Antonique Smith: You know, I actually got to talk to her.

So, I had a bit of a cheat sheet, I’d say. But, there was just a lot of stress and pressure—just from the fact that everybody knew her already. And, was going to really make that comparison. You can see like now the way Instagram is with the memes. If people don’t like your portrayal of something, they will go at you pretty hard. So, I was definitely nervous. And, I really wanted her fans to love it. I put my all into it. But, I think getting the role was actually a little harder than doing it.

I know that you costarred in Amsterdam, but have you have been in any other Hip Hop videos? Antonique Smith: I did a cameo in Nas’s

video. He actually shouted me out in one of his songs. So I did a little part in the video where he talks about me. It was cool.

Who are your Top 5 emcees? Antonique Smith: I’m an activist. So, I’d

say right now Kendrick, because he really made an incredible statement with that album and with his performance at the Grammys. “We gon’ be alright” was one of our anthems on the tour last year. I went on a tour with the Hip Hop Caucus, called The Act On Climate Tour. And, we went all around the country explaining to black people, in poor communities, how they’re getting asthma and cancer from the amount of pollution in their air and water. And, it’s kind of crazy because that was all before we knew what was going on in Flint. Flint is a very extreme case of it. But, it is happening more covertly all over the country. So, yeah—I’d say Kendrick, J. Cole, Biggie, Pac, and—Jay Z. I’ll say that’s my Top 5 right now.

Which Hip Hop artists are in your current playlist? Antonique Smith: Shoot. In this industry, “Happy” by Phar-

rell is always on my playlist. [laughs] You always need that little pick-me-up in the morning. [laughs] Drake… Kendrick is in my playlist. But, I like a variety of music.

Cool. Another example of your success is your role in the Broadway musical Rent. Do you have plans to return to the stage in the near future? Antonique Smith: You know what? Not near future, but

absolutely in the future. Because one of my life-long goals is to be an EGOT. And, an EGOT is a person who has won an

Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. So, I have to go back to Broadway, at some point, to get that Tony.

Tell us about your latest single “All We Really Have Is Now” and your new EP “Love Is Everything.” Antonique Smith: The title of the EP comes from the fact

that love is the most powerful force in this world. And, it’s the one we use the least of. I believe that love is the cure for all of these horrible things. Like, you know, when Marvin sings “What’s Going On.” What’s going on is there’s a lack of love in this world. And, if there was more love, then all of these terrible things: this racism, this hatred, this murder, this craziness that’s going on just wouldn’t happen. Because it can’t exist where there’s more love. When people love themselves and they love each other, these kinds of things just don’t happen. So, that’s kind of the foundation of Love Is Everything. But, the actual six songs on the EP talk about different experiences of love. All We Really Have Is Now, is the new single. I’m so excited about it. It’s about that moment we’ve all faced. Most of us find ourselves thinking about the future and wishing that certain things were a certain way. Or, wanting so much for something else to be happening that we aren’t appreciating what’s happening right now. Or, you’re thinking of the past. You’re thinking about how somebody hurt you, and you’re so worried about that happening again that you’re living in fear. And, you’re not focusing on how something could be so right— right now. But, because you’re focused on the future or the past, you can’t even see what’s good in front of your face. Tomorrow’s not promised, so we just got to focus on now. I love that song. It’s really beautiful.

That’s deep. What else can we look forward to from you in the immediate future? Antonique Smith: I’m going to do a full length Love Is

Everything album. And, it’ll be more experiences of love. Also, I have a movie called Deuces coming out in theaters. That’s with Meagan Good, Lance Gross, and Larenz Tate. Dope cast. Dope movie. A crime drama produced by Queen Latifah, and I think people are really going to love it. And, in April, I start shooting a new show on Fox with Gina Prince-Bythewood. It’s called Shots Fired. Sanaa Lathan is starring in it, so they are going to be back together again. I’m really honored to have a role in it. It has a Black Lives Matter connotation to it. It’s going to hit people pretty hard. And, it’s going to be thought provoking and hopefully life changing. TOUR MAGA ZINE

uccessfully navigating through the steady stream of rappers flooding the Hip Hop landscape, in an attempt to reach stardom, can be an arduous process. So, a lot of talented rappers get overlooked. However, probably one of the most slept on emcees, in recent memory, is Drag-On. Drag-On burst onto the scene as an original member of the star-filled Ruff Ryders Entertainment roster that included DMX, Eve, Swizz Beatz, and The LOX. Furthermore, his gold selling debut album, Opposite of H2O, solidified his position amongst his label mates. Some of his most notably tracks include: Down Bottom, Spit These Bars, and Niggas Die 4 Me. After a short hiatus, Drag-On returns to the mic with a vengeance. And, if last year’s NRG (New Rap God), as well as the barrage of freestyles that he’s been bombarding the Internet with of late, are of any indication, he’s bringing the heat. Recently, I got an opportunity to chop it up with DragOn and found out what he’s been up to. Some of the details of that conversation are posted below. Check it out and become reacquainted with one of Hip Hop’s prized talents.

Peace. It’s been a minute since you’ve been in the public eye. What have you been up to? Drag-On: I been trying to get out of

showing the world how I do it. You know what I’m saying?

At its height, Ruff Ryders was

one of the most powerful my contract with the Ruff Ryders and record labels in Hip Hop. How stuff like that. I finally got out of that. different is being a part of And, even though—-we all still family. an empire from your current We all still work together and everyindie label status? thing. But, at the same time I have just Drag-On: It’s a big transition. Now, been pretty much raising my daughter I’m in pretty much total control of my and figuring out a way to really attack career. Nobody dictates when I come this game the right way. And, let everybody understand what it is, with the talent that I’ve got. You know what I’m saying? Like, right now, I’m attacking the game real beast-mode. I’m putting out freestyles every week or every two weeks. Just beasting on them. These promo joints that I got—-that’s just me in the gym BY THOMAS exercising. I’m just

out, how I come out, or where should I come out. You know what I’m saying? I pretty much control at least 80% of my career right now. And, I love that. A lot of people might be mad at the way the game is right now. But, I feel as though the game is the most independent that it’s ever been. You know what I’m saying? Before, it was just people that don’t even know how to do music in control of music. But, nowadays you’ve got rappers signing

“SUPREME” PARSONS

TO WAKE A 8

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rappers and in control of other rappers. I love that. I don’t just love the fact that Meek Mill is a great rapper. I love the fact that he’s signed to another great rapper. You know what I’m saying? I love that. And, that’s just to show you how big Hip Hop is. It’s at the highest independency level that it’s ever been. Now rappers are actually bosses for real. And, not just being pimped. You know, you’ve got Drake—-incredible artist. But, guess what? He’s signed to another incredible artist. I love that bro. You know what I’m saying? I’m a Hip Hop head. I’m all for the love of Hip Hop. You know what I’m saying? Anything Hip Hop—-I’m on it.

Hip Hop has changed since the days of “Niggaz Die For Me” and “Down Bottom”—-Down Bottom is my favorite Drag-On record, by the way. Drag-On: Alright. Man, I appreciate that. How have you changed, and why should Hip Hop fans of today listen? Drag-On: Now, I actually get a chance to give them more me. You know what I’m saying? And, that’s what they always wanted—-more Drag. They be like, “Why I don’t get that much of Drag? I get a lot of everybody else, but I don’t get that much of Drag.” So now, they are definitely going to get a lot of me. My fan base is growing even faster now. A lot of people follow me on Instagram. And, a lot of people really fuck with me on there, because I’m not just like any other rapper. I’m following over 6,000 people back. I really fuck with my fans, and my fans really fuck with me. I’ve got die-hard Drag-On fans out there. I’ve got core fans out there. That’s been with me from day 1. So, I cater to them and hope that they spread the word to the others. But, at the same time, with all the new social media outlets that’s popping up, I’m developing new fans. Especially, since I’ve been putting out my promo videos. I know a lot of other people do promo videos where they’re just sitting CONTINUED »

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back in the studio talking this, that, and the third. But, my promo videos is me driving in my car, I find a spot where I feel like spitting. I pull over. I lean on niggas. I get back in my car and peel off. Straight raw, and my shit is live. All of my promo videos are straight bars— straight Hip Hop. And, niggas ain’t talking what I’m talking. We promoting with bars.

You and Swizz Beatz had the ill chemistry. What is the relationship like now? Drag-On: Swizz is my cousin. Straight up. We like family. We like cousins. We not cousins for real, but we like cousins. You know what I’m saying?

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The love is strong right there. Like me and DMX. DMX is still my older brother. That’s still my mentor. I still look up to The LOX. Eve is still my sister until I die. That’s just what it is. We all still family. You know what I’m saying?

Can we expect any future collaborations from you two? Drag-On: I’m always in the studio working, but you already know Swizz is a big deal over there. So, it’s whenever Swizz is ready. Whenever Swizz is ready—I’m ready. It’s not me. I’m here. Everybody knows that I’m working. It’s whenever they’re ready to work.

Tell us about your new material. Drag-On: The new music is just real—feel good music. It’s giving them that Drag with that new flavor. Because it’s 2016. It’s a whole new demographic. It’s a whole new fan base. It’s just a whole new set of people out here right now.

Let our readers know how to keep up with you and your music. Drag-On: Everybody can follow me on Instagram @drag_on1. My Twitter is @IamDrag_On. And, definitely subscribe to my YouTube at Firemandrag.

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REVOLUTIONARY RAP

GOD’S BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

EMCEE

ip Hop has gone Hollywood. Most rappers seem obsessed with producing records about popping bottles, making it rain, and drug abuse. And, both terrestrial and satellite radio airwaves are flooded with songs that are redundant caricatures of the darker elements of society. Sadly, our culture’s mainstream has become quite one-dimensional. Still, there are a few independent artists that have chosen to pursue a different path and expand Hip Hop’s creative limits. For example, there’s Washington, D.C.’s own JESUSGANG ALI. This brother has forgone the popular trapper/d-boy rapper archetype in favor of a more meaningful path. JESUSGANG ALI’s lyrics are thoughtful, real life, and flat-out dope. Not long ago, I had an opportunity to build with the enigmatic emcee on his music and its place in today’s Hip Hop landscape. And, here’s what he had to say.

Peace. Tell us about JESUSGANG ALI and what you bring to Hip Hop. JESUSGANG ALI: I hate putting labels on art, but I like to say I make music about God and the universe that transcends religion…audio and visual art for geniuses.

You’ve decided to take the road seldom traveled with your music. And, that is a course in which your lyrics actually have substance. Has it been difficult building a fan base? JESUSGANG ALI: I have found

that most intelligent Hip Hop fans are actively seeking higher art. Technology allows me to give them that art directly. I don’t know if real fan bases exist anymore though. It’s like a tribal thing now. My tribe is growing daily.

Do you think that more rappers will start making meaningful music, as opposed to the d-boy/trap records that dominate today’s airwaves? JESUSGANG ALI: There will always be artists putting out the real. Always has been… But, there is a very coordinated effort to ensure that damaging energy is transmitted through the art we consume. If you want to fight that, you have to go it alone.

So, what are you currently working on? JESUSGANG ALI: I’m about to drop

my first EP for sale titled, “#LORD.” It

will allow me to infiltrate the churches and mosques with the message of universal godhood. There are levels though. I drop free songs, for the hardcore faithful, on SoundCloud all of the time.

How can our readers follow your movement? JESUSGANG ALI: SoundCloud at

JESUSGANG ALI, Twitter @Jesusgang, IG @illegalArtDealer—for paintings and photography—and, Tumblr at jesusgang.tumblr.com. TOUR MAGA ZINE

HARDC

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CORE

Peace. Let’s start by letting our readers know who you are and where you’re from? Arsonist: It’s your boy Arsonist—half of the Platinum Boys—The Heatmakerz. I’m from the Bronx, New York. In case you didn’t know. Wayno: Wayno—half of The Heatmakerz. I’m from the Bronx—by way of Far Rockaway—but BX still.

Over the past 30 plus years, I have witnessed Hip Hop mutate from boom bap to trap. Hip Hop production styles have undergone many transformations over time, just as the values and demographics of our society have experienced stark changes. Yet, there aren’t many producers able to capture the grittiness of Hip Hop quite like The Heatmakerz. Their patent sound has been heating up nightclubs for years. And, they’re showing no signs of slowing down. I linked up with The Heatmakerz’s Rsonist and Wayno at their Manhattan studio. There, we chopped it up about Hip Hop and their careers. Checkout some of the key excerpts from that interview below. And, for more of Tour Magazine’s meeting with The Heatmakerz, visit us on YouTube at The Real Tour Mag TV.

How long have each of you been producing? Arsonist: We were both producing before we met each other. I’ve been producing since 98’. Late 98’ is when I started. So what’s that? Seventeen years ago? Wayno: That’s a long time. Arsonist: Yeah. How long have y’all been a team though? Arsonist: For almost—going on 4 years now. You have a distinct sound. How would you describe it? Arsonist: The sound that every-

body knows, I would describe it as like Hip-Rock. It’s kind of like soul music mixed with rock music.You know what I mean? It’s like aggressive soul music is what we try to do, or just create energy. That’s really what it’s about when making music. So, our sound is just energized. Even if it’s a relaxed record, it still has a certain energy in there. And, that’s what we try to create— different energy for different artists—through music. You guys are best known for your work with The Diplomats. What is your relationship with them now, and will you be working with them again now that they’ve reunited? Arsonist: Yeah.We actually did a few records already.We did a few records together.The relationship is perfect. Jim actually records out of my studio at least 4 or 5 times a week. Wayno: Word. Arsonist: So, the relationship is perfect. What are your thoughts on the state of Hip Hop today? And, where do you think the genre is going? Arsonist: Everything goes three-sixty.You know what I mean?

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS TOUR MAGA ZINE

we’re at as a society—if you don’t hear it. Because, somebody’s making it.Whether you hear it or not, somebody’s making that music about—you know—black rights, or just rights in general, or injustices of the government. People are making records like that. So, if we don’t hear them, that’s telling you what we are allowing ourselves to listen to. Because we dictate what goes on the radio.And, if we don’t say anything about it, or ask for new music, we are going to get the same shit we’re being fed.

Because everything comes back full circle. So, when people complain about that Hip Hop is at… Let’s just say during the late 90s, when Hip Hop became more party orientated. Like, you know, with Diddy and even Jay was making records like Sunshine. It was just a party atmosphere, and some people wanted the gangster put back in Hip Hop. And, then you had artists like 50 Cent that came along. Now, the stage that we’re at is more so back to the late 90s, where it’s a partytype of phase again.Yeah, people are talking about “gangster shit,” but they’re doing it over song you can dance in the club to.You know what I’m saying? So, it’s just all three-sixty.We’re going to get back to real—what people want to call Hip Hop street shit—but it’s gonna be wrapped in a different package the next time around.We’re gonna get back to it, because there is only so much different music that you can make. It’s only so much different music you can make, or so much different things you can say. How many times can you talk about: shooting somebody, killing somebody, having a party, or—I don’t know—fucking with bitches? It’s just that people know different ways to say it. And, that’s all that music is—it’s just finding new ways to wrap the same gift. Do you guys think that the recent injustices that have struck the black community will start to influence the type of Hip Hop music being made? Arsonist: It should, because Hip Hop is about lifestyles. So, it should. If it doesn’t, then it kind of let’s you know where

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Do you only work with established artists, or do you actively try to break new talent? Arsonist: That’s it.That’s the key.We work with established artists, of course, because—you know—established artists want that sound too. But, I prefer to work with brand new artists, because it’s like a clean slate.And, whatever you create— that becomes the norm. Like with the Dipset movement. Other producers felt like they had to give them beats that sounded like ours, because they felt that’s how they’d fit the mold. So, once you set that precedence, it’s almost like—okay, cool—this is the sound for that artist.And, I think that’s a beautiful thing as a producer when you can create that—for anybody. Cause it’s almost like, your sound or whatever you do for them is synonymous with them.And, that’s what production is about—to me. So, what have The Heatmakerz been working on? Arsonist: Fred The Godson “Contraband 2.” Our artist, who goes by the name Mally Stakz—he has an EP coming out called “The Way It Is.” Maino—we did a record with him and Macy Gray that should be coming out soon. Wayno: Tough record. Arsonist: Yeah, that records tough. Kevin Gates, Nipsey Hussle, Lil Boosie… Wayno: It’s a bunch. Man, it’s a lot. Arsonist: The Dipset project, Jim’s solo project… Wayno: Cam’s solo project. Arsonist: Fat Joe & Remy… A bunch of people. We working. I just think about what’s going on tomorrow. I just want to work and make records for everybody. So, when it comes out people be like “yo, how did these dudes do that much work?” Not knowing that we’ve been loading up the clip for like a year and a half. So, when the first bullet get out it’s going to be automatic after that. Before you go, where can our readers find you guys on Instagram and Twitter? Arsonist: Instagram is @officialheatmakerz and Twitter it’s @theheatmakerz.That’s mine.Wayno has a different Instagram and Twitter. Wayno: Instagram is @Wayno_heatmakerz, and on Twitter it’s @illwayno. THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

HE SAID, SHE SAID…

FEATURING Supreme: What’s your name and where are you from?

Purly Wyte: My name is Purly Wyte, and I’m from Yonkers, New York. Where are you from?

Supreme: I’m from Maryland.

Purly Wyte: That’s what’s up.

Supreme: What’s unique about Purly Wyte and the Purly Wyte sound?

Purly Wyte: Purly Wyte is 100% real baby! What you see is what you get—on and off stage. On the block or in the club, it’s the same shit all-fucking day. Me and my niggas are out here trying to get money, and we’re trying to stay out of jail.

PURLY WYTE

It’s all real. No preservatives, means no additives. Nothing extra. It’s all real, just like me.

the politics. We can talk that. But, as far as niggas go, like I’m not worried about these niggas.

Supreme: What type of challenges have you faced as a female artist in a male dominated industry?

Supreme: So what are some of the difficulties related to politics?

Purly Wyte: They just flirt extra hard—niggas just flirt extra hard. But, besides that I don’t really surround myself with niggas too much, or whatever. I don’t really have any difficulties in the game. I’m better than these niggas and I’m better than these chicks. So—you know what I mean—it just is what it is. I don’t really see no difficulties in the shit. I see it’s a lot of difficulties in

Purly Wyte: As far as politics go, a lot of shit is just aggravating. As far as like radio goes in New York City—I’m from New York, so I can only speak about where I’m from and where I’ve been. And, I’ve been in different cities too touring. And, in New York I really don’t feel like they push the underground artists. Everybody keeps saying there’s no more New York rap scene or the New York rap scene is scarce. But, CONTINUED » TOUR MAGA ZINE

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Purly Wyte is 100% real baby! What you see is what you get— on and off stage. that’s only because the radios are dick-sucking these niggas that’s paying them. Like, this shit is corny to me. And, when I go down south you hear the come-up artists. They don’t even be all that. They be alright. You know what I mean? But, they give them a shot. And, Hot97 and 105 aren’t doing that. Sorry. 93.7 in CT really ain’t doing that. But, shoutout to Boston though. They have a Hot97 out there—I’m really not too sure with the numbers—but they support their underground artists

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on that station out there. You know what I mean? But, out here it’s just a little weirder to me.

Supreme: What’s the title of your latest project?

Purly Wyte: The title of my latest project is No Preservatives, and it’s hosted by DJ Livewire. He’s a Shadyville DJ.

Supreme: How many other projects have you released before this? Purly Wyte: Three: Daughter Of A Hustler, Checkmate, and Queen’s Ransom. Three previous projects and this one is the fourth.

Supreme: Where can your music be found?

music, videos, show footage, and all of that on there. Datpiff and Reverbnation have some old music. But, I don’t really promote Reverbnation too much. I go with my SoundCloud and Datpiff.

Supreme: What social media sites are you on, and where can our readers find you?

Purly Wyte: I’m heavy on Twitter baby! My main page is @ WhyYouHatePurlz. And on Instagram @cockyasspurella, or you can type in Purly Wyte and cockyasspurella will pop up. Shout-out to Tour Magazine too, by the way. Shout-out to you.

Supreme: Thanks.

Purly Wyte: SoundCloud and YouTube at Purly Wyte. I have

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Industry Underground… The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines industry as “a group of businesses that provide a particular product or service” and underground as “in or into a place that is hidden or secret: out of the view of the public.” Therefore, when applying this phrase to Hip Hop culture, I define industry underground as individuals who are major contributors to the business of Hip Hop, but who are not widely recognized by the mainstream public. This segment will feature artists and producers that meet such criterion. For instance, Bronx, New York, rhymesayer Fred The Godson.

FRED THE GODSON And, who better to represent Hip Hop than an emcee’s emcee? A short list consisting of your favorite rapper’s type of rapper comes to mind.With Fred The Godson’s name assuredly in the mix along side the greats. Initially, after gaining nationwide attention via XXL’s 2011 Freshman Class cover, alongside fellow classmates Meek Mill, Kendrick Lamar,YG, Big K. R. I.T. , and Mac Miller—to name a few—Fred The Godson was selected to anchor the traditional “Freshman Cypher,” and delivered arguably the most memorable verse. Next, he followed up this success with the DJ Drama hosted mixtape City Of God, which featured the hit Monique’s Room. Finally, with the recent release of Contraband 2, Fred The Godson is poised to take his place amongst his peers on a national stage. Speaking of Contraband 2, I was fortunate enough to hear some of it early, during our interview. But, if you haven’t heard it by now, you don’t know what you’re missing. (Two tracks that really resonated with me are the “Intro” and “Black Power. ” Both are stellar examples of Fred The Godson’s lyrical supremacy and diversity. ) And, as for said interview—the contents of which are presented below—Fred The Godson discusses his career, his current place in Hip Hop, and his future. Read it.Then, go listen to his solid Hip Hop catalog.You won’t be disappointed. BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

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Peace. You are well respected amongst your peers in Hip Hop. But, what is it going to take for you to gain the national recognition—from the fans—that you deserve? Fred The Godson: I can’t call it. It’s like—this is like nothing new.These are things that have happened to me. Like, when you look at—even somebody like, I’ll say Jadakiss. Even though nationally they know him, I still think that he ain’t never got what he’s supposed to get.You know what I’m saying? It’s like being over qualified, I guess, for the job. It’s like, what’s going on now to me… I mean—I’m the most humble dude you’re probably going to meet—especially in this game. Like I really give my all. Like I try to give y’all something. I feel like everybody raps. I look at it like the NBA. Everybody raps, everybody plays ball. But, once you’re a NBA player—and they draft you—you have a certain responsibility. So, me being a rapper, and me rapping just like the other 5 million motherfuckers I know that rap. Once I get pinpointed to be like “alright, you’re going to rep for the Bronx. ” My shit on the radio—I’m in magazines. I’m getting paid. I feel like I have a responsibility to show y’all why I should be making a living off this thing. So, I try to give y’all the best bars, the best everything.And, it’s like—you hear people, it picks up, and they go… Like my favorite rappers in the world—that I look up to—they say they look up to me.And, the fans stop me, and I’ll take 30 to 40 pictures a day, autographs, everything. But, I don’t know. I don’t have the answer to what’s stopping it.You know? It’s like something.And, then you can’t help but hear some songs that you

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be like,“fuck is this shit?”And, it catches fire.And, you’re just stuck there like,“what am I doing wrong?”And, not to get off subject, but—that’s how a lot of things get messed up. I know rappers personally that—they’re nice—but you got to stay true to yourself. But, sometimes when what you’re doing… Just because what you are doing at the moment ain’t working, doesn’t mean that you’re doing anything wrong. So—salute to Fetty Wap—say what I’m doing is, I’m giving y’all them bars, I’m giving y’all that fire. But, what Fetty Wap is doing, is winning right now.There’s certain niggas that’s in Fred The Godson’s field—that’s in my situation—that be like “you know what, let me do this Fetty Wap shit.”And, then you just fucking kill yourself right there, because now you sound real crazy. But, I don’t know. I never had that answer man. I know that I just said a whole bunch of things rambling just now. But, you just asked a good question.That’s the main question of Fred The Godson—from everybody. Like yo,“why you not here.You’re supposed to be here.You’re not doing bad, but you’re supposed to be up here, but you’re there. ”

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So, basically you’re saying that an artist has to nurture his or her fan base? Fred The Godson: You just have to nurture your fan base and stay true to yourself.And, just do what you do.That’s basically what it is.You’ve just got to nurture your fan base and just rock. It’s different people for different things. To each his own.

You were a member of the 2011 Freshman Class. Did that feature help or hinder your career, and how? Fred The Godson: It helped.That was the biggest You bring the heat with every bar. Where do you rank amongst the pantheon of great lyricists? Fred The Godson: It’s hard for me, because I look up to niggas. And, when I look up to people, I look at them like super heroes. Like when you say, “Biggie, Jay, Nas…” Some dude was, on the radio, doing an interview. And, they were like,“who’s the best rapper right now?” He said, “Fred The Godson.” It blew me away. I didn’t even know that he knew me.They was like,“Yo, where do you think he ranks?”And he was like,“lyrically, he’s better than any rapper. I don’t care who y’all put up.Y’all can say The Greats—whatever y’all want. But, bar for bar, they cannot stand next to him. ” And, it’s like—I do get crazy. I can go bar for bar with the best of them. But—I know that I’m up there with them— I’m just such a fan it’s so hard for me to put myself ranked up there. But, I know that I’m up there with niggas. Because I see the people’s reactions, even from Jay Z to Beans, to Jadakiss, to everybody that I look up to, that have told me, “Yo, you’re incredible. ”

How does an emcee’s emcee survive in a Hip Hop culture that no longer places a premium on lyrics? Fred The Godson: It’s just about being true to yourself. There are always fans and there are always spots for different things.You got the Fetty Wap fans.You got—shout-out to my nigga Chief Keef fans.Then you got the Kendrick Lamar fans. You got the J. Cole fans.You got the Fred The Godson fans. So, it’s room for everybody.You know, Fred The Godson might pack a crowd of 2,000 people. But, then you’ve got a Fetty Wap that’ll probably come out and pack a 70,000-seat arena.

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thing that could have ever happened to me. I call that the All-Star game, because it’s like—every unsigned rapper, right now—you ask them. Everybody guns for that cover. I remember when that cover first came out. Shout-out to my brother Cory Gunz, he was like,“Yo, I’m on the cover of XXL.”And, I’m like,“Word? That’s crazy!” He said,“it’s me and a whole bunch of artists.This is called the Freshman Class. People that’s not on yet.”And, I’m like,“Yo! I’m going to get on that in a couple of years. I know that I’m going to get on that.Watch me. I’m going to bust my ass.”And, I was saying that to motivate myself. I didn’t know that in like two or three years later, I’d really be on that cover.And, I’ll never forget that day. It was all of us there. Me rocking with Kendrick, me and Meek been was supposed to do something.That day we all was together: me, Kendrick, Mac Miller, Meek Mill, YG—it was crazy.

What are your thoughts on last year’s Freshman Class? Fred The Godson: That crew was just different. For instance, in this class—shout out to Kidd Kidd shout out to Fetty Wap—it’s different zones. Sometimes I can’t even keep up with what’s going on.A lot of artists I don’t even be knowing. I can’t keep up with everybody. So, it’s an artist on there that I’ve never even heard before. But, they’re on there for a reason. So, to each his own. I know Kidd Kidd. That’s my boy. Shout out to him. I’ve always been a fan of his music. Fetty Wap—Jersey—he got it rocking right now.And, the rest—I don’t know.

Let’s switch gears for a minute. Will some of your new material touch upon the social issues that are plaguing the black community? THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

Fred The Godson: I have a song called Black Power on Contraband 2. It’s an “empowering blacks” song. Like, with Contraband you know I talk that street shit—that drug shit. But, with this, I got my homegirl Cocoa Sarai. And, I just thought the song was needed.You know?

What’s next for Fred The Godson? Fred The Godson: Me and Kevin Gates had been discussing putting a project together ourselves. But, I’m just working man.Working on these singles.Working on this music. I’m just trying to bring good music back, and New York in general. I want people to push their pen again. I just think that this rap is getting out of hand.

What social media sites are you on and where can our readers find you? Fred The Godson: Instagram, I’m on there heavy @fredthegodsonmusic.With the Twitter @fredthegodson and Facebook at Fred The Godson.

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Money Menace

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

NAME: Money Mena FROM: VA ote; RELEASES: Omerta She Wr es) Blue Bill Dreaming (mixtap SOCIAL NETWORKS: ace_; Instagram - moneyymen Facebook - 100 Boyz Twitter - 100BOYZDMV;

ferent feel to the “I think I bring a dif can relate to.” music that people

can be found on (Money Menace’s music Spinrilla and YouTube.)

The MC… Master of ceremonies, Microphone Checker, the one who can move the crowd. To do it—and do it well—is a gift. Sure, there are countless rappers; but every rapper is not a MC. Unfortunately, far too many of our dopest MCs never truly get heard. We are going to try and change that one region at a time.

his time, we’ve selected three completely different—but talented—artists to show that it’s okay to be unique. There are so many lanes on the great expressway called Hip Hop. Why congest one? Successful artists such as Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and others have proven that it’s alright to stay true to yourself and not succumb to the pressure of fitting in. No matter if you desire John Tanner’s witty bars, Omeez’s realism, or Money Menace’s youthful exuberance, it’s all a part of Hip Hop and a testament to how much our culture continues to grow. But, don’t take my word for it. Check them out, and see for yourself. Tell us a little about yourself and why fans of Hip Hop should check for your music.

Money Menace: I think I bring a different feel to the music

that people can relate to. I am very straightforward and all of my music is also. I like to have fun on a track while telling my life story. I just want my current and future fans to see life through my eyes.

John Tanner: I’m an artist that strives to make a classic and timeless collection of music. Focusing on innovative 22

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sounds and concepts. I’m unafraid of approaching topics that most would shy away from. I try to keep the essence of the Golden Era of the 90’s and early 2000’s. Not only by using a melodic string of words, but also complex lyricism.

Omeez: I was not spoon fed, and had to work for everything.Therefore, I create music with substance. Another thing that differentiates me from the pack, is that I am also a producer. I produced every track on OG Tales, which allows me to define my own sound and style. I give the listeners various feelings when it comes to the music. Motivational, party, stories—I deliver it all. Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

Omeez:

My biggest influence are the fans.The people that purchase the mixtapes, regardless if they are available for free.The people that constantly tell me how talented I am and that they listen to my music everyday.That means a whole lot to me.

Money Menace: My mother,

father, and stepfather have been my main backing.They always keep me focused and on grind mode.Their belief in me makes me want it that much more.

John Tanner: My friends.The sense of union we’ve always shared with one another for achieving something great continues to be a huge motivator for my career.

NAME: John

Tanner

FROM: New Castle, Delaw are RELEASES: 9 Below Zero; 3:16 (albums) SOCIAL NETWORKS: Instagram & Twitter - LiveLoveJ ohn Snapchat - LiveLuvJohn “I try to keep the ess ence of the Golden Era of the 90’s and ea rly 2000’s.”

(John Tanner’s music can be found at www.iamjohntanner.com.)

John Tanner

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Omee

What are your plans for the immediate future?

John Tanner: Immediate plans include promoting the release of my sophomore project. And, building momentum behind my brand and media presence.Through this process I’ll be looking to land a situation that will put my career on the fast track to where I want to be. Money Menace: I plan to release my latest mixtape Blue Bill Dreaming in June. As well as continuing to travel and perform, so that I can be heard everywhere. My ultimate goal is to be at the top with the best of them. Omeez: I will be dropping visuals from my current project. I have a few features lined up, and I will be coming out with a new mixtape. So, stay tuned for more work real soon.

NAME: Omeez FROM: Miami, Florida (But, reps Orlando.) RELEASES: Mayday; OG Tales (mixtapes)

00;

SOCIAL NETWORKS: Instagram & Twitter - Omeez44 Facebook - Omeez “I was not spoon fed, and had to work for everything.”

hard

eez.)

(Omeez’s music can be found on YouTube at MrOm

INDIE GRIND Fresh off of a 4 year prison bid, LP Marcy is heating up the streets of Maryland’s Eas tern Shore. His first single, Against The Odds, shows depth and has gotten a lot of sup port. However, it’s the catchy follow up sing le— I’m Winning—that has fans excited abo ut the summer release of his first mixtap e, Living Proof. So, it’s only right that Tou r Magazine introduces this promising new talent to the world. Peace. Where are you from?

Lp Marcy: Salisbury, Maryland.

Why did you name your first mixtape Living Proof? Lp Marcy: Basically, meaning that’s what I am. Everything that I rap about, I experienced or went through.

It seems like everybody raps now. Why should Hip Hop fans listen to your music?

Lp Marcy: My music comes fro m my heart. I share my life story wit h y’all for real. And, what I’m dropping now is only the beginning. I share my life , my struggle, and the stuff that I’ve been thr ough. Because, if you can place yoursel f in my shoes, you’ll understand me more. I’m from the bottom, and I’m still trying to make it out. Stay tuned because it only get s deeper.

Where do you find inspiration?

Lp Marcy: I draw inspiration from my daughter, NaBrea, and things that I see in my everyday life. When you have time to find your inner-self, make use of what you discover. That’s what I did wh en I was in prison. I realized that I have a story to tell. So, I’m going to let it out.

What are your plans—career wise—

Against The Odds

for 2016?

Lp Marcy: I have a vision. I’ve been networking and dedicating my self to bettering my craft. I’m trying to take my music beyond the local scene and hop efully open the door for others along the way. I want to give back because there’s so much talent where I’m from. BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

TOUR MAGA ZINE

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

TOUR MAGA ZINE

THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

This is dedicated to all of the unheralded soldiers of the Hip Hop culture. I’m talking about the exotic dancers, urban models, and video vixens. This one’s for you .

Savannah Guilty Tell us a little about yourself.

Savannah Guilty: I’m a mother of two sons, and I currently reside in Atlanta, Georgia. So, right now, as far as my occupation, I am an exotic dancer at the famous Blue Flame Gentleman’s Club. How’d you get your name?

Savannah Guilty: Guilty is my stage name. basically, it references my alter ego. Just growing up as a child, I’ve always been surrounded by trouble. So, anytime there was trouble, my sisters always blamed me. I was always the one to be guilty. And, Savannah is who I really am. That’s my real name. So, I just combined the two. Who’s your favorite Hip Hop artist right now?

Savannah Guilty: My favorite artist is Bankroll Fresh. Who are you listening to?

Savannah Guilty: I love trap music, so Bankroll Fresh, Gucci Mane, Jeezy, Young Dolph. I love Fetty Wap.

From: Miami, FL

Height: 5’6”

Dimensions: 29-22-34 Age: 26 Social Networks: Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter: @savannahguilty

What advice would you give to young ladies trying to break into your industry?

Savannah Guilty: I would say to be focused in everything

that you do. It’s so easy to become unfocused. All types of things are going to be thrown at you, and you have to know what you’re setting yourself up for. You can’t give in too easily. Even if it’s a certain amount of money—and you could be in need of it—just know that that’s not who you really are. You have to stay focused when you go into this industry. TOUR MAGA ZINE

Ciara Marie

aka CiaraToo Pretty

Tell us a little about yourself.

Who are you listening to?

outspoken individual. Also, I’m dedicated to what I love to do, and I am focused on my goals.

to Young Dolph.

Ciara Marie: I’m a very hardworking and

How’d you get your name?

Ciara Marie: Ciara Marie is actually my first and middle names. And, the Too Pretty nickname speaks for itself. Who’s your favorite Hip Hop artist right now?

Ciara Marie: My favorite Hip Hop artist is Tupac Shakur.

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Ciara Marie: I’m currently listening What advice would you give to young ladies trying to break into your industry?

From: Seaford, DE

Ciara Marie: My advice for any young

Dimensions: 36-31-40

lady that’s trying to break into the industry is always be yourself. People will respect you, if you stay true to who you are. Never settle for less and stay focused.

Age: 26

Height: 5’6”

Social Networks: Facebook: Ciara Marie Instagram: @ceeeemarie_ Snapchat: @Ceeeemarie Twitter: @CiaraSmack THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

From: Maryland Height: 5’4”

Dimensions: 34-23-37.5 Age: 28 Social Networks: Facebook: Shanel Kirkland Instagram: @guccibae_1 Snapchat: @Guccishanel1

Gucci Shanel Tell us a little about yourself.

Gucci Shanel: I am very modest and

Who’s your favorite Hip Hop artist right now?

humble. Also, I’m pretty outgoing. And, I always try to be understanding, rational, and open-minded.

Gucci Shanel: Remy Ma

Who are you listening to?

How’d you get your name?

and Omelly.

Gucci Shanel: My brother gave me the name Gucci when I was 9, because he thought I was one of a kind. Then, I added Shanel later.

Gucci Shanel: Yo Gotti, PNB Rock, What advice would you give to young ladies trying to break into your industry?

Gucci Shanel: My advice would be to always believe in yourself, so that someday someone might believe in you. Always remember that you’re an idol to someone.

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Aspiring model/actress

Q&A:

AYISHA WILKINS Ayisha Wilkins, the aspiring model and beautiful daughter of Hall Of Fame inductee Dominique Wlikins, discusses her fledgling career and growing up the offspring of a NBA star.

By Thomas “Supreme” Parsons Peace. Tell us a little about yourself.

Ayisha Wilkins: I am 32 and a mother of three. I’m a

Business Consultant. I’ve been doing that for the past six years. My dad is Dominique Wilkins. And, I am trying to break into the modeling industry and maybe do other stuff. But, not really big-time modeling or anything like that. I’m just trying to do more creative stuff now. Can you tell us about some of the things that you’d like to delve into on the creative side?

Ayisha Wilkins: I’m just breaking into modeling.

I would like to try acting. I’m not sure how good I’d be. But, I think that I’ll be okay though. I like telling stories and I think I’m pretty good at improvisation. I have ideas for reality shows or podcasts. I would like to produce or create my own project, because I have a lot of ideas that I’d like to showcase. Has having a Hall Of Fame basketball star as a parent helped you in your pursuit of those creative endeavors?

Ayisha Wilkins: I would say no, because I don’t really tell people who my dad is. Especially in the professional world. I want to make a name for myself and not—you know—get somewhere because of who my dad is. I know that you like Hip Hop. Who’s your favorite rapper?

Ayisha Wilkins: My all-time favorite is Drake. I’ve

liked him ever since he came out. I actually used to listen to his underground stuff. Oh, Meek Mill too. I know there’s the whole Drake vs. Meek Mill beef, but I like both of them. But, Drake is my favorite.

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So, that’s who you’re listening to right now: Drake and Meek Mill. Who else is on your playlist? Ayisha Wilkins: Nicki Minaj, Jay Z—always, Beyonce— always… Beyonce is like my all-time favorite person, so yeah her of course. Kendrick Lamar, Young Thug, Lil Wayne… But, I pretty much listen to everybody and everything. I’m not just stuck to one genre. Can you share with our readers your social network IDs, so that they will know where to find you and how to keep up with you?

Ayisha Wilkins: Instagram is @iamishab. Twitter is

@King_QueenB. And, Facebook is at Ayisha Wilkins. THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

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