#1 LGBT
MAGAZINE OUTLET ON THE PLANET
BAAAAAAABBBY LET #RAMAG TELL YOU THE TEE!
2015 WEB SERIES EDITION - ISSUE 6 - WWW.RAYNBOWAFFAIRMAGAZINE.COM
RAYNBOW AFFAIR
T.R.A.D.E IT ALL
Sidney Starr
10/10 LGBT RATING
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH:
YOLONDA ROSS:
INSIDE THE CHARACTER and what she has to say about “Whitney”
NEW RELEASES
THE HOT SPOT
PAGE 18
ALL TRUTH. NO SHADE. als o re ad in de pt h ab ou t
MONIFAH & H er Jo ur ne y
MUCH MORE!!!!
Sidney Starr
28. PHOTOGRAPH BY MIKE JUE
4 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
CONTENTS
COVER
JANUARY 2015
www.raynbowaffairmgazine.com ISSUE#6 THE WEB-SERIES ISSUE
EDITORIAL
FEATURES
The Windy Sissy Happy New Year!
MONIFAH My Journey
10.
TANGINA STONE Open Book
14.
HOT SPOT The Hookah Hideaway
23.
DIME OF THE QTR. Cortez
24.
WHAT YOU DRINKING ON? Chad the Bartender Something in the Air RA STYLE WHAT YOU WEARIN?
YOLONDA ROSS Inside the Character
18.
9. 17.
MY TWO DADS EDITORS TOP SIX
26. 39. 40. 57. 60. 62.
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 5
B OWT I O N N I A R EC CONN ERIE S e h BI t
S
46.
YS A G E TH
54.
B E W THE ISSUE
S E I R E S
FA FREE
56.
52.
T. R . A
RIES E S e X th I M E R
42.
LOG ON TODAY! www.raynbowaffairmagazine.com 6 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
LL
ALL T I E . D.
48.
EDITOR’S NOTE
OUR TEAM
I
t has been a great start to a New Year. Let me begin by wishing you all a Happy New Year from the #RAmag family. As 2014 progressed, there were many changes that began to take effect. We have re-vamped some of your favorite articles and added multiple new elements. Allow me to welcome you to the New Raynbow Affair Magazine. This will be your One Spot Shop for ALL things within the Entertainment Industry. We will continue to encompass a world where Music, Film, Television, Books, and more are joined together for your reading pleasures. Please accept my sincerest gratitude towards you all for rocking with #RAmag in 2014 and allowing #RAmag to take you on a journey. The journey has been filled with music, movies, gossip, fashion, raw talent, sheer perfection, and all things in between. Through it all you have been by our side and for that I thank you. I personally thank you all for the warm regards I received as I stepped into this role of Editor In Chief. The expectations of you the audience are not those for the meek. It has been a joy thus far and I know it will continue to be. You ready???? As the Holidays have ended and you begin to go back to your daily routine, I challenge you to love harder than you have ever loved before. I challenge you to laugh harder than you have ever laughed. And, most of all I challenge you to love yourself more than you have ever loved yourself. This is a challenge that I hope you will continue this year and allow joy, bliss, happiness, and positivity to fill your world. Enjoy this issue as we bring you nothing but the best fit for you my Kings and Queens. The cover is taken over by the Media Frenzy herself Sidney Starr. You already know we get up close and personal into all things her. Everything you have wondered and wanted to know we ask, and she tells ALL. Brace yourself, as we find out all the Tea she has to spill. This issue has a key concentration on some of the hottest Web Based Series to hit the LGBT culture. Prepare to say hello to Cast, Creators, Producers and more as we bring you front and center with “BI,” “T.R.A.D.E it All,” “Freefall” and more. InTraditional #RAmag style, we hit you with some topics that make you think. Some visuals that make you want to take a selfie. Fashion that will make you want to hide the credit card, and editorial content that will provide you more than enough.
RAYNBOW AFFAIR
PUBLISHERS
VON WATTS JAMEELAH WILKERSON
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DIAMONDKESAWN
EDITORIAL TEAM
CK SMITH THAD-E VAHN ARI ALFREDA COVNGTON K. BENNETT-EADY
CREATIVE DIRECTOR VON WATTS
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS
MY TWO DADS- COURTESY OF “GAY WITH KIDS” PORTRAITS BY CHRISTOPHER LOGAN FILM STILLS COURTESY OF LIFETIME TV COVER STORY-MIKE JUE
Welcome to the Quarter 1 2015 issue of Raynbow Affair Magazine. Buckle your seatbelt and keep your hands and feet inside the car as this ride takes off now…
EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING OFFICE
#Salute DiamondKesawn (@DiamondKesawn) Editor In Chief
7399 North Shadeland Ave Suite 299 Indianapolis Indiana 46250 762-233-2477 contact@raynbowaffair.com www.raynbowaffair.com The Raynbow Affair is Published four times per year digital, and 4 times per. year print.
DIAMONDKESAWN Editor-in-Chief
VON WATTS Publisher/CoOwner
JAMEELAH WILKERSON Publisher/CoOwner
Cover and contents may not be reproduced or reprinted in any form or medium without prior written and granted permission from the publishers. Raynbow Affair does not assume responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photos or artwork and will only return submitted materials accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope.
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 7
MEDIA BLAST
LOG ON TO WWW.RAYNBOWAFFAIRMAGAZINE.COM FOR MEDIA BLAST FULL STORY
The Femme Docuseries Releases the first teaser
Now that it’s becoming more socially accepted, we have to go through this huge transformation of everyones perception of whether somebody dresses masculine or feminine. It’s like this huge thing.” *TheFabFemme.com* creator, *Aryka Randall* has released the first teaser to her four part docuseries,“Femme”. This series aims to shed light on the lives of different feminine identified lesbian women throughout the country. The first teaser features a 25 year old tattoo artist from New Orleans Louisiana named *Natasha Schmidt*. Natasha has been in a committed relationship with another feminine identified lesbian for seven years and they are raising a nine year old daughter together.
Whitney really Gay? Will Yolonda tell it?
When it comes to Vocals, the is no competition to the Voice of a generation Whitney Houston. After the passing of the musical legend many stories began to come to surface. Every channel had a Behind The Scenes or a Life and Times of as well as all of a sudden footage that was once Lost was miraculously found. #Oop Whatever the case, one of the topics that has stood out the most is the one of Whitney Houston and her Bestie Robyn Crawford.
Debby Holiday teams with Grammy-nominated producer and remixer Tony Moran on the new track. Tony is also featured in the music video. More info attached. Tony and Debby are available for interviews. Thanks! The song is available exclusively on Beatport now!
Patricia Velásquez Latino Supermodel Comes Out
Patricia Velásquez is a Latino Super Model and she has came out as being gay. Velásquez played the character of Begoña on several episodes of The L Word during its 5th season (2008). Patricia Velásquez just released her new memoir entitled Straight Walk. It is here that she revealed the secret that she had been holding on to for years ‘In my head I thought, “I just wanted to prove one thing, and I did,” ‘ she writes. ‘There was no middle ground for me — a person was gay or not gay. Being gay was not for me.’ This is a great start for Patricia Velásquez to start being happy. Coming out in the entertainment industry is never easy and in the Latino community it’s even harder there is still alot of prejudice in the Latino community.
Cazwell Is the “Hot Homo”
“Hot Homo”, the latest record from the indie gay hip hopper Cazwell, is a freestyle parody of the summer’s biggest rap jam, Bobby Shmurda’s “Hot N*gga”. Like its predecessor, the track has an addictive beat with scandalous lyrics. Where Shmurda’s track is about killing people and selling drugs, Cazwell’s takes on an equally volatile subject: man-on-man sex. It also manages to poke fun at celebrities Chris Brown, James Franco and yes, even Debra Messing. “’Hot Homo’ is no more overtly sexual than what I hear on any given Hip Hop radio station,” defends Cazwell. “The point of the song is that gay men should feel as entitled to express themselves sexually as straight guys. That’s been my message since I dropped my ‘All Over Your Face’ single in 2006”. Cazwell’s “Hot Homo” featuring Big Dipper is available for free download on Cazwell’s Soundcloud for limited time only.
The song celebrates the 30-year anniversary of Phyllis Nelson’s original “I Like You”. It was a #1 hit on the Billboard Dance Chart in 1985.
8 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
The true to life musical tale is a monument to the wherewithal the artist has utilized in creating top charting platinum hits. Inspired by the classic dance beats she has been known for, the track has been remixed by a stable ofnotable industry DJ’s which include John Rizzo, Eric Kupper, and Razor & Guido. There is no doubt the single will appeal to a cross section of demographics.
Music Lovers #Rock to!!!!
Grammy nominated, iconic recording artist Kathy Sledge is featured on the latest dance single“Keep It Movin,” released by by
Janet for Halloween
Babeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee, when it comes to Halloween you know the Girls come out to PLAY. From Naughty Maids, to Nasty Nuns, they bring all the Cat (Meow) out the bag. This Halloween 2014 NOBODY and we do mean NOBODY is topping Queen Bee with her Ovah Janet Jackson Realness effect.
“The New Black?” In a world that is so controversial and judgemental we are faced to fight for equality is all facets of life!
A Film by Justin Simien
According to the storyline via IMDB: “Dear White People” is “A social satire that follows the stories of four black students at an Ivy League college where controversy breaks out over a popular but offensive black-face party thrown by white students. With tongue planted firmly in cheek, the film explores racial identity in acutelynot-post-racial America while weaving a universal story of forging one’s unique path in the world. Written by Anonymous“
Queen Bey
Reality of ‘Gay Marriages.
Dear White People
Debby Holiday Remakes “I Like You”
PEM (Pacific Electronic Music.) The track is a collaborative effort produced by Ibiza based international Electronic Music producers Max Matire and Lenny Ibizare of Aristofreeks; with vocals and lyrics written by Kathy Sledge. “Keep It Movin “brings dance music back to the forefront of America while further securing Kathy Sledge’s voice as a heralded mainstay on dance floors worldwide.
RealRawFootage Tezzo has Done it Again!
In case you don’t know I’m about to put you up on game! Coming out of the Chicago area, we have the Gay Rap Group “Raw Footage!” This group consists of 3 males (left to right: Lil Ron, Tezzo, and Aki) who are attacking the Industry with Trina Lyrics, Nicki Minaj Swag, and Butch Queen Realness! Let me say this, you know I lives for me a ole Trina, Lil Kim type of feel but I am in LOVE with Tezzo! Babeeeeee, this lil Chiraq Yop Boy will Murder and Beat and not Apologize for it. Tezzo gives you real Meek Mill, Bobby Smurda, Canibus teas and I live for his verse in EVERY song!
“The New Black” takes you inside the reality of ‘Gay Marriages.’ At a time when the world is at its peak of diversity this is still a matter that most are afraid to discuss, and many are refusing to accept. Here is your advance look into “The New Black” as it prepares to hit the Country by storm! Ensure you follow the movement and keep up as Raynbow Affair will be right there for the Exclusive!!! The New Black is a documentary that tells the story of how the AfricanAmerican community is grappling with the gay rights issue in light of the recent gay marriage movement and the fight over civil rights. The film documents activists, families and clergy on both sides of the campaign to legalize gay marriage and examines homophobia in the black community’s institutional pillar—the black church and reveals the Christian right wing’s strategy of exploiting this phenomenon in order to pursue an anti-gay political agenda.
the WINDY SISSY
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RA hot MUSIC this issue!
“What you seek is seeking you” --Rumi Is it just me, or does it seem like things just seem to slowly unravel around this time of year? Sure, everyone else around you is planning trips home for the holidays, envisioning the perfect gifts for their loved ones, and preparing a three month notice for a New Year’s Resolution that we all know will never come to fruition next year. But what about you? If you’re anything like this 23 year old Detroit transplant in the Windy City, HalloThanksChristmasEve has become the most melodramatic time of year. It all begins mid-October, during the last warm days of the year, and all the other 20 something’s start feeling a bit...freaky, for Halloween of course. I like to call it creatively carnal. You have a little fling or two in hopes that it’ll last through cuffing season, but all the while distracting yourself from the shift at hand. Besides, let’s be honest--you were only “entertaining” those guys/girls. You weren’t that serious. This is, after all, the season of change. You notice that you’re spending less and less time with friends, slowly growing apart from associates. And hell, you even forget the name of that fine ass bouncer at the club you frequented every weekend in the summer due to the fact that you haven’t been back since Labor Day! You’re kind of becoming a party pooper, huh? Well, not yet at least! Such a weird time of year. We’ve worked 9 months just to get to this exciting time, but something has just grown so...melancholy about the whole bit. Alas, it starts to manifest. You’ve transitioned a handful of people out of your life (or so you think) that were simply bad for business, in hopes of making room for folks worthwhile. I’m convinced that between October and December, you let go of so much shit that was once so central to your life that by January 3rd you’re all over Twitter thinking you’re an entirely different person. “New year, new me!” Let’s kill that in 2015 by the way. But it’s deeper than that, and you don’t really start to notice till the end of November. There’s a longing--for something better, something new, and more importantly, something you deserve. That higher salary you’ve worked so hard for all year. A lover that accepts you
for all your beautiful bullshit. A closer bond to your family so that you can finally be the Huxtable’s that you’ve been pretending you were for 20 years. Let’s not forget though, Santa only rewards little boys and girls that have been good all year! And yes, Caroline, karma is a bitch. So, were you really that deserving of all those things that just didn’t seem to come around by December 15th? Don’t fret, though, baby cakes. It was around this time of year, 2013, which I stumbled upon the simplest yet profound quote of my youth. Something about the 10 hours of daylight and cold weather that gets the girls in their feelings, yes?
SIYA - Real MVP @SIYA
I was finally fed up with being the victim. Tired of being jaded by holiday cheer. And flat out sick of being lonely and single. It was then that I found the words of this 13th century Persian poet by the name of Mawlana Rumi, while scrolling through some of the finest men Tumblr has to offer; “What you seek is seeking you”. Genius, right? This man must be on to something. If I changed my outlook on not only the holiday season, but life as a whole, so shall the environment around me. And finally, that which I so longed for would be able to enter. So I realized, my good LGBT brethren, the best gift that this season of change could give to you is yourself! Your complete and honest, vulnerable self. Be the lover to you that you so desire. Vow to carry on the hustle to 2015 and beyond. Take it upon yourself to be the bind that holds your imperfect family together. And stop to notice and rejoice in the change that you’ve created for your own life! It is my wish for each and every one of you to have the best HalloThanksChristmasEve that you’ve had since Clinton was in office. We’re all so able to adapt to the onset changes of the latter part of the year. But more importantly, what we are seeking is just around the corner in 2015. Happy holidays everyone.
FELIXX- Applause @FelixxClarkKent
CAZWELL - Hot Homo @cazwellnyc
-Vahn Laine (@VahnEnVogue)
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 9
M O N I FA H 10 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
“I’m a woman who is incredibly comfortable in her own skin, and my expressions of such fourteen years later in music are much authentic and more sexy”.
“Confidence doing something
MY JOURNEY
you love is sexy”.
By: Todd Davis
First things first, congratulations on your nuptials last April -- So, how is married life treating you right about now?
“The Other Side” is a relationship song I think we all can relate to. It’s about what happens in love sometimes when you think the grass is greener. It has a street sassy message.
Married life is absolutely wonderful! I have an amazing friend, life partner and wife. I’m exceptionally blessed.
...I loved it because it was uptempo and fun to sing. It’s produced by a new producer I’m working with on my NEW project. I’ve been testing new sounds and creating new synergy with creatives like myself...Soon to be revealed.
Well, It’s been over fourteen long years since your last studio outing, Home, and although you have been exploring a few other ventures as of late, particularly R&B Divas, what actually prompted your decision to take so much time off between albums? During my recording hiatus, I spent a lot of time healing and taking care of myself mentally, physically and spiritually. Although I wasn’t recording, I would still perform live to audiences to keep my voice cultivated while doing what I love. I believe God gave me “pause” coming out of the ‘90’s, to take care of my mental and spiritual well being to be used this time around for my higher purpose. With that being said, and to kind of catch everyone up to speed with basically “all things Monifah,” what exactly had/have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during this lengthy musical hiatus? I have openly shared that I am in recovery. I found it necessary to remove toxic people, places and things from my life. I live a peaceful existence and feel great. I have spent time with myself cultivating and renewing my passions and purpose. I have been writing songs, plays and my personal memoirs. The good news though is that you’re FINALLY back with a new single, “The Other Side” -- What can you tell me about this particular track? How did it even come to fruition?
“The Other Side” is a precursor of sorts to your long overdue, now highly anticipated forthcoming fourth magnum opus -- So, have you titled the record yet? And if so, conceptually, what does that name represent both to and for you? My upcoming body of work is entitled Invincible. It’s my musical cornucopia of songs and messages that spoke to me during my journey. Don’t even trip because you get those hot Monifah classic kinda sounds, too, but with a renewed sense of purpose. How then does Monifah (album) #4 either differ and/or compare to previous solo efforts? I’m a woman who is incredibly comfortable in her own skin, and my expressions of such fourteen years later in music are much authentic and more sexy. Confidence doing something you love is sexy. I love live instrumentation, and you will hear that on this album. ...Being an independent artist now, you get to be more creative and truly express your gift to the world. The hustle is hard but, the freedom of expression in your craft is yours. I always say, “you will live and die by your own hand.”
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 11
In addition to, of course, this new music we’ve already mentioned, you also starred in the TV One reality show vehicle R&B Divas -- Overall, how was that whole experience for you? Is it truthfully 100% unscripted television? And, since you all wrapped up work back in July, will you be back again for season number four? I was featured 3 seasons on TV One’s R&B Divas: Atlanta. I was a part of what graciously is called the “franchise five,” with Syleena Johnson, Faith Evans, Nicci Gilbert and Keke Wyatt. Our successful recording breaking numbers for the network afforded the Los Angeles show to come to fruition. ...Yes, the show is totally unscripted. I openly shared my life, music, struggles and love with the world. In season three, my marriage made history as the first African American same sex marriage televised. I am very proud of the show -- even with some of the rough times -- as they serve to help me grow more. I would strongly consider returning for a season 4 with my “Sisters In Song.” On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B? And, as an extension to this question, where do you “fit in” when it comes to the overall sound-scape of today’s trending music? There are many artists that I love who are doing great music. I would love to hear more R&B Artists with positive messages about love in radio rotation. We lost the art of a sexy metaphor. Some of today’s lyrics are really disturbing, as they relate to women. When did we start hating our women in lyrics? Sometimes I’m caught off guard with the disrespectful lyrics... Even more-so, when young girls rock out on the songs, too. ...Don’t get me wrong, I love a sexy lyric, beat and bassline, (but) it’s much easier to palate when it’s less graphic and less disrespectful. To date, what has been your biggest career moment, at least thus far anyway? My most memorable moments in music to date is when I got to honor my R&B Legends on the main stage at the Essence (Music) Festival. I honored “The Diva,” Donna Summer! I always love singing live, and to a sold out (Mercedes-Benz) Superdome; it was an awesome experience. I also had the opportunity to honor Chaka Khan, who I have admired since I was A VERY young child. Seriously, I was Chaka for many Halloween nights! She is a living legend; I just adore her. ...Currently, I’m proud to have received two awards that are very special to me. First, the “(Heritage) Trailblazer Award”
12 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
from NYC Black Pride Committee...And now, the “Vanguard Award” given at The 9th Annual OUTmusic Awards of the LGBT Academy of Recording Arts. As for the immediate future, what’s next for you, Monifah? In the very near future, I will be making my onscreen and directing debut. I will be enjoying the company of my grandson -- I’M SO HYPED! -- and touring the world with music and art. I’ll also be writing books along my way, in hopes that my journey inspires others to live their best life honestly and authentically. Do you have any “parting” message(s) for our readers? Parting words: There transcends to love of wonderful support in along my way. I pray
is such power in love. Love of self others. I am very grateful for the my journey. I appreciate every kind word we all pay it forward in love and kindness.
@THEMONIFAH
BIG FREEDIA QUEEN OF
BOUNCE
SEASON THREE PREMIERES FEB 25TH #RAMag January 2015 PAGE 13
TANGINA STONE
OPEN BOOK By: Todd Davis
Tell me your whole inception into music -- When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it actually all begin for Tangina Stone? I became interested in music when I was about three years old. I used to sing my own little renditions of Christmas songs. My favorite was “Jingle Bells,” but I was three so instead I said “Bina Bells.” That became my nickname and has stuck with me all my life. I began writing my own songs in first grade. By the time I was twelve, I managed to start recording in someone’s home studio. It’s one thing to sing a song; it’s another thing to sing a song that you wrote yourself. It’s an entirely bigger thing to hear a song that you sang and wrote, recorded for you to play over and over. This was when it all began for me, and at about twelve years old I completely hit the ground running. Now you were born in Ohio, but reside in Brooklyn, New York, am I correct? So growing up, who did/do you consider to be your strongest musical influences? Growing up in Ohio with my family, and then taking my journey into womanhood in Brooklyn, has completely defined my musical style. My two sides of my family in Ohio are from two very different backgrounds. My father is African American and my mom is Polish American. My mom’s side of the family listened to a lot of Rock. Thus, my mom grew up hearing this kind of music until she got older and started listening to Hip-Hop and R&B. My mom shared the music from her childhood with me. ...The music she shared happened to be Journey, Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd. She especially loved Stevie Nicks. I love her, too! I love her so much that she has always and will always be one of my major influences. My mom also loves Lauryn Hill, and would play The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill until she couldn’t play it anymore. Lauryn became my second favorite influence. That said, how do you classify your overall sound and/or style? I classify my sound and style as a mix of different genres. It’s a bit of Rock, mixed with Soul, a dab of Electronic and can even get a little Jazzy. But one thing that my music is, is honest. Your lead single is entitled “Cops” -- Tell me about this particular track? How did it actually come to fruition? “Cops” actually came to fruition by accident. I was in a really bad relationship a while back. After the relationship ended, all that I could do was write really sad songs. One day, I was on the train and started
to poke fun at how volatile and crazy that the relationship was with the girl I used to date, and so I started writing “Cops.” At first, it was just a joke. I showed it to a few people and they all suggested that I write more and record it as a real song. It felt nice to laugh at the pain instead of just sulking in it. “Cops” uplifted me and helped me unload some baggage that I was carrying around. “Cops” comes courtesy of your six-track The Fall EP -- Conceptually, what does that title represent both to and for you? “The Fall” represents the first time that I fell in love and got into a bad relationship. I got in the relationship and had to experience falling on my face over and over. We broke up and after a while I found love again. I fell in love with myself for the first time and I fell in love with my soul mate. It was beautiful and healthy. It still is. This all took place during the actual season of fall. What do you feel you offer the music industry that we don’t already have in other performers? I am an open book. I feel like there aren’t enough artists who are telling the truth and writing music as a real expression of their lives. My music is a bit intimate in a sense because I write about exactly what I am experiencing and feeling. Have you encountered any problems in getting to this point in your career? I have encountered plenty. There will always be roadblocks. No matter how big a ship is, a tide can always move it. What do you want people to get from your music? I want people to feel like after they listen to my music, they have made a new friend. I want them to feel like they have found someone that they can relate to. I write what I write in hopes that it might make someone feel that way. If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why? I would love to bring back Billie Holiday. I would like to tell her that I can relate to some of the pain that she has felt. I would love to write with her and to learn to express myself as accurately as she could. I would also love to work with GoldLink. Obviously, he is a totally different genre of music, but I think he is extremely talented.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why? I would love to play the House of Blues in Cleveland. It would be amazing because I am from Canton, Ohio, and was born in Cleveland. It would be great to do what I love in the place where it all began on such a grand scale. After that, I would love to do Madison Square Garden. Of course we all want to do The Garden! One track of yours that you think defines you and why? I think that “Suntan” defines me pretty accurately. It is an accurate showcase of my musical style. It is also very honest and emotional. I am a pretty honest and emotional person. In terms of longevity, what do you feel it is exactly that will continue to sustain you in this grueling business of music? What will sustain me is my drive. No matter what happens, I know that I must fulfill my purpose. It is extremely important to me. I am not the kind of person that gives up on things that I truly believe in. I believe in great music and I believe in my own ability to create it. Do you have any other outside/additional future aspirations, maybe even completely away from music? I have a huge interest in philanthropy. Part of the reason why I want to be so successful is that I want to give. I want to give as much as I can as soon as I can. I really want to have a hand in some of the amazing things that people should be involved in, in the future. It is extremely important to me.
To date, what has been your biggest career moment, at least thus far? My biggest career moment was when I performed a concert on the street for the release of my EP. What made it my biggest moment was when a little girl named Sophia stopped in the middle of the street with her mother to catch the show. Afterwards, she wanted her mom to buy my CD and for me to sign it. It was one of the most important autographs I have ever signed and it brought an extremely great feeling to my heart. Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself? I see myself on my fifth or sixth album. I see myself with children and happy with my partner. I see travels in my future. I want to travel the world, and figure out where it is that they need the biggest amount of help. After that, I want to do all that I can to help. In ten years, I hope to be wiser, stronger, a better friend, a better listener, a better musician and a better vocalist. I just want growth. There is no specific amount that I want to see. I just want to know that I am closer to fulfilling my purpose. As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Miss Stone? What is next for me is the pursuit of all of the things I said above. I have a lot of work to do. I want to get started immediately.
@tanginastone 16 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
54321 10 9 8 7 6
HAPPY NEW YEARS!
BY:THAD-E
Well to some of us it’s a brand new start but as for me ha! This is an excuse to get waisted and show my face and backside to everybody but the devil. As I got my phone out to take a everlasting New Years self portrait known as the “Celfié” in the mist’d of having a drunken photo shoot that will one day come back to haunt us all on our judgement day. My phone is greeted by a incoming call from moment in time that went from one night to 1year by the name of Jay R.
Me: Hello Jay R: Happy New Year Me: Same to you Jay R: Thanks Where are you at ? Me: Why what’s up Jay R: can you go somewhere quiet I can’t hear you Me : yeah hold on Giving a look to my friends of shock and unknowing I walk to the balcony being met by darts of cold air piercing my body I resumed the conversation
Me: Hello Jay R: yeah I’m here you alone or nah Me: Yeah boy now what’s up it’s cold make it quick Jay R: It’s been almost 2 months since we hooked up right Me: yeah I think so why your jewel sack getting heavy Jay R: “chuckles” Nah let me just say Well I was given a “House In Virginia” Me: What the f&#k are you talking about speak English or am I just hearing Drunk “Jay R” Take the first letter from each word son. “House In Virginia”
And suddenly once my mind had processed what my ears just heard my body suddenly became stone and my lips became frozen and I realized how within the first few mins of my new year was tainted by last years irresponsibility so much for a
“Happy” NEW YEAR. #RAMag January 2015 PAGE 17
YOLONDA R O S S “I had never taken an acting course,” “But I was blessed with a gift...
18 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
inside the CHARACTER with Yolonda Ross By: DiamondKesawn
I
’m sure by now you have seen the Whitney Houston Biopic on Lifetime. Directed by Angela Bassett, this film takes you up close and personal within the world of Whitney Houston. For some it revealed some new information and for others such as myself it afforded us the opportunity to see Whitney from a new angle and fall in LOVE with her all over again. Recently, I had the chance to catch up with Yolonda Ross who played Whitney’s close friend and assistant Robyn. Yolonda Ross is a woman of many Titles and Accolades. Let me introduce you to the Woman behind the Character: “Yolonda Ross (Actress,Writer/Director, Producer) is a native of Omaha, Nebraska. Yolonda has several films slated for 2015; including the indie drama “Meadowland”, with Olivia Wilde, “Lila and Eve”starring J e n n i f e r L o p e z a n d Vi o l a D a v i s , “ a n d “Whitney”, directed by Angela Bassett for the Lifetime Movie Network. An independent film darling, Yolonda made her feature film debut in the Award winning independent film “Stranger Inside” in 2001. Yolonda went on to win an IFP Gotham Award for Best Breakthrough Performance for the role as well as received her first Film Independent Spirit Award nomination in the category of Best Debut Performance. In 2014 her work in the John Sayles film “Go For Sisters” garnered Yolonda her second Spirit Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. for which she has just been nominated for an Independent Spirit Award
in the category of Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in Denzel Washington’s award winning film “Antwone Fisher,” as well as the independents film “Yelling To the Sky,” Woody Allen’s “Whatever Works,” and Joshua Sanchez’s “FOUR.” In television, Yolonda is best known for her role as documentarian Dana Lyndsey on “Treme”, and appeared in the HBO/David Mamet, “Phil Spector” biopic. She completed a pilot for Showtime entitled, “Happyish” with Philip Seymour Hoffman and Kathryn Hahn, directed by John Cameron Mitchell. Other credits include guest starring roles on “Law and Order,” “Law and Order: Criminal Intent,” and “The Unit” in a role David Mamet wrote for her himself. After portraying a filmmaker on “Treme”, Yolonda made her directorial debut with the 10-minute hybrid music video/short film entitled “Breaking Night,” about a young girl taking control of her destiny. The short film has officially become the music video for the famed Manfred Mann song, “Blinded By the Light”, which it features, and is currently in rotation on VH-1 Classics. In the book world, Yolonda’s voice can be heard in the audible edition of Hannah Weyer’s, “On The Come Up”. In 2008 , Yolonda became a member of the prestigious Labyrinth Theater Company in New York after making her stage debut in the play “Unconditional” at The Public Theater. Yolonda resides in New York and LosAngeles.”
There’s one thing Yolonda Ross, the actress who plays the role of Whitney Houston’s rumored lesbian lover in the upcoming Lifetime movie, knows for sure about Whitney and her gal pal, Robyn. “They were two people that deeply loved, cared for and respected one another,” she says. “Theirs could have been more than a friendship and if so, it’s really unfortunate if others got in the way of it or compromised it.” Directed by Golden Globe® Award winner and Academy Award® nominee Angela Bassett, Lifetime-TV’s Whitney Houston will focus on the singer’s rise to stardom and her stormy relationship with Bobby Brown. It’s set to air January 17. To prepare for the role, Ross feverishly studied Houston and her longtime assistant Robyn Crawford. According to reports, the two met at 16 during a summer job in East Orange, N.J. and soon began an alleged romantic relationship. They broke up when Houston married Brown in 1992. “Robyn seems to be a straight-up, very grounded person,” continues Ross. “Somebody who, no matter what the situation, has got your back or is gonna set you straight. She offered security to Whitney and uncompromised companionship.”
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he tINTERVIEW Diamond: Ok, so I heard you in essence broke into the industry in about 2001 in film called Stranger Inside, Is that right? Y: That is correct. Diamond: So bring me up to speed. How do we go from young beautiful girl in Omaha just kicking it to breaking into the industry? Y: We broke into it sideways. I moved from Nebraska to New York to be in the fashion industry. I was working in the fashion industry. I did windows, I managed, I did merchandising and more. I just did jobs and within all of those that is ‘creating’ in some ways and from there a friend of mine was doing extra work on SNL, Saturday Night Live and what I was saying before about being in New York everything is really about making money. So how can I make a little more coins than my job and doing extra work for a day and making a few hundred dollars here and there, it’s like ok great I’ll do that. I got my actor card, then I got an agent and it was on from there. My first audition was “New York Undercover” and I knocked out all my stereotypes. I was a pregnant crack head and got shot all in one part. That was my first thing and then next audition was “Stranger Inside” and I booked it. Treasure which was the character I played, she really was the thing that made me realize that’s what I was here for following and that is what it was taking me to. So a big change in my life happened in that time where I took acting seriously because just before that happened the store I was working at closed in New York moved and they didn’t want to be in New York anymore so that’s when I decided to take the acting thing seriously and that’s when Stranger Inside happened. 20 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
Diamond: So Stranger Inside was technically your first film, correct? So we go from fashion girl doing her thing, fashion extraordinaire to your first film and then this first film you end up with nominations in the Gotham award. You step into this field, you land your first film role, you find out a lot about yourself through this role which in essence ?? an award and then you turn around and you go to sleep and the next day you wake up and get a phone call like hey girl, it’s on and popping. How did it feel? Y: Is that how it works? It pretty amazing, it’s very amazing to go through all that and to feel all the steps that you go through as an actor, as a person changing careers. It’s a world that is completely different. To me I was always used to making regular money, knowing when vacation was and all that kind of stuff and then going from that to being an actor and an actor that I feel is not stereotyped which I’m lucky to say and its just a whole different way of living because there is no rhyme or reason how things are put together or how people are chosen. Its not necessarily about talent when people get jobs. I feel it’s a lot of blessings is how you keep working, its how you get work and to keep working you have to have something and I feel its been my talent and whatever the gifts are that I have that people have been noticing to keep me working. The other thing I am at the point where I’m feeling things are happening that have been culminating over a period of time and it was one of those things I feel can happen to a lot of people when you have a huge thing that you start with and in my case it was Stranger Inside and then right after Stranger Inside happen, 9/11 happened so then everything was wiped out, it was like I never started almost. So I’m very thankful to all the people that kept that move in their minds, kept Treasure in their heads and still come
up to me today talking about how that part and those characters touched them. That is what keeps you going. Diamond: How did you break that mold from being Actress and crossing the line to now going behind the camera behind the production and physically executing it? Y: I think it was bound to happen at some point. It wasn’t something that I was thinking of doing but as an Actress and being a Black Actress things that are offered to you and the opportunities that you get are not always the thing that you know you can do. You don’t get to utilize all of your talent and gifts. So writing my short Breaking Night it was a matter of me doing something and becoming a character I had not gotten to and being part of that Indie film world and having a lot of director friends and working on a lot of their films with them I wanted to go through the process of learning how to make a film from A to Z, like I know all the actually steps and I’m addicted. Diamond: In the Whitney Houston Biopic, who do you play? Y: I play Robyn Crawford. Robyn was the assistant and best friend to Whitney Houston. Diamond: How did it feel to be a part of a film based on such a great person? Y: I don’t want to pop your eardrum screaming, but it was like “Waaaaaaaaaaa.” Come on now, that’s Whitney Houston. That’s not some average singer or someone we know now and won’t hear about anymore in life. That was Whitney Houston. She is a Legend. To be a part of her life and to bring intimate parts of her life to the screen. That was amazing.
Diamond: Without spilling too much tea, throughout this process of creating this film was there anything in the script that made you turn the page and say to yourself “What, What happened?” Y: I wouldn’t say there were any shockers. There were a few little things that made me say “oh, that happened” but nothing major. As always with each project you learn a little something new. Diamond: How was it being on set with Ya Ya? You are both two amazing individuals, so what was the chemistry like? Y: I so enjoyed being a part of the cast. It wasn’t totally like chuckle, chuckle, chuckle, you know nerves are still in play and Angela Bassett is directing so you are like, okay it’s Angela Bassett. It was a great time though. I had a break in my schedule, unlike Ya Ya who had to be there all the time. When I came back it was definitely a more relaxed feel and we were in a flow. Diamond: I heard that 2015 is about to be on and popping for you. Bring me into your 2015 hunni and tell me what is going on because you are serving on my screen hunni. Y: Yes. The end of this month Lila and Eve premieres in Sundance. That was the first job I got of 2014. Viola Davis really started my year off right. There are multiple projects coming out to start the year off and it is just great. It’s people helping people and it feels good. As we head into 2015 with full force, get ready to see more of Yolonda Ross on your screen. Film, TV and more. This woman is truly an amazing Star on the Rise. Tune In to the #RAmag Interactive Media for the full interview including all the fun and laughs shared amongst us. #RAMag January 2015 PAGE 21
HOT SPOT
THE
HOOKAH HIDEAWAY By: DiamondKesawn
In a city where Nightlife is a life all its own, you are faced with the challenge of choosing the right spot to go for you on the right night. Being that I travel to a lot of major cities, I decided it’s time to spotlight some “Hot Spots.’ In this edition of Hot Spots we take a trip down Auburn Avenue in the Metro Atlanta area. Concentrated along a short mile and a half of Auburn Avenue, the Sweet Auburn Historic District reflects the history, heritage, culture and achievements of Atlanta’s African Americans. The name Sweet Auburn was coined by John Wesley Dobbs, referring to the “richest Negro street in the world.” Yassssssssssss, Mr. Dobbs. Like most black communities throughout the country, Sweet Auburn’s success was intricately tied to the residential patterns forced on African Americans during the early 20th century--the result of restrictive laws in southern states which enforced segregation of the races, known as Jim Crow laws. It was here that many African Americans established businesses, congregations, and social organizations.
As we fast forward to 2015 I take you to The Hookah Hideaway. Located at: 43 Jesse Hill Junior Drive Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30303. This is a location that is sure to please and party goers appetite. Dependent upon which night you head to THH you can get anything you want from the ultimate Turn Up to the laid back Kick Back type of vibe. Over the past few months THH has become the place to be for the young and elite crowd of Atlanta. From Models to Promoters to Media Gurus such as myself and more. We have began to head to THH to escape the overdone world of Drama in the Club. Providing a smooth intimate setting THH is def the Hot Spot to be when in the Atlanta area. Oh yeah, did I mention the Skinny Wings are BOMB?????? You know I had to eat.....
Keep Up with The Hookah Hideaway on Instagram: http://instagram.com/thehookahhideaway
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CORTEZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MIKE JUE INSTAGRAM @MIKE_JUE 24 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
DIME
RA
Haaaaaaay Cortez.
Hobbies: Acting and getting tattoos
THE
Occupation: Manager at a Moving Company
QUARTER
OF
Beauty. Poise. Style. Intrigue. Just a few words to describe this quarters Dime of the Quarter. Take a moment and get introduced to Cortez Smith out of Chicago.
Favorite Song out right now: Tuesday By: Drake
Favorite Movie: House Party
Social Media Info: ig; cortez_smith FB: Cortez Smith (tu lam) Aspirations In Life: To have a successful career in modeling/acting and earning many awards for my accomplishments. I hope to become powerful enough to open doors for other models/actors coming up in Chicago, as I did.
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WHAT YOU
DRINKING ON? By: DiamondKesawn
When it comes to the City of Atlanta sex, beauty, fun and drinks are a few key words that come to mind. You have the continuous opportunity to meet sexy people, engulf yourself in the world of beauty along with the elements thereof and take the time to enjoy great company over some drinks.
The Bartender. When it comes to Chad sexy is an understatement. This caramel dipped, thick toned body built, perfect teeth, mesmerizing smile having man is a bartender who believes every night should end well. Enjoy the read as I introduce you to Chad the Bartender and you find out the answer to What He’s Drinking On.
Combining these 3 elements, I stumbled upon the untapped world of Bartenders. When you think about it the Bartender is the one person who can fully control your night. The right drink can lead to a pleasure filled evening where the wrong night can lead to frustration and a loss of anticipated enjoyment.
Its a beautiful night in the Atlanta area. The sky is clear and it is cold as a mauthaf***a. I find myself at “The Hookah Hideaway” chopping it up with Chad the Bartender,
The one thing every bartender knows is the drink each consumer in their bar has ordered. This is heightened if the bar is a local Hot Spot and full of regulars. The one thing we as the consumer usually don’t know is what the bartender is drinking on.
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Bartending for over 6 years, Chad the Bartender began bartending by throwing house parties. After making a drink he called “Hunch Punch” it ended up in the hands of a local restaurant manager. After a sample of “Hunch Punch” whatever the Hunch was in that Punch lead to Chad getting his first gig at a local Buffalo Wild Wings.
CHAD THE BARTENDER
DiamondKesawn: “Can one really tell the difference between Top Shelf and Bottom Shelf drinks?”
DiamondKesawn: “What is it like in the life of a Bartender? The groupies, the girls, all that comes with being a bartender.”
Chad: “It depends on how long you have been drinking. A new drinker won’t have a clue where as a more experienced drinker will definitely know the difference. Top Shelf has a smoother taste and you get what you pay for. The cheaper alcohol is harsher and is rough going down.”
Chad: “The life of a bartender is pleasurable, but it’s also hell. Everyone thinks you have all these groupies and you stuck being single.” DiamondKesawn: “What’s that one thing you hate that patrons of the bar tend to do the most?” Chad: “The one thing that aggravates me is when people be like “This ain’t no shot. Well where I go it be like….” I be like, well boo boo, this is not where you go by no means. This is the Hookah Hideaway and we do our stuff correct and proper. There’s a lot of things people do but you gotta treat everyone differently. At the Hookah Hideaway, I don’t have Customers, I have Guest. The Hokah Hideaway is more of a family environment and you are more than just a number.” DiamondKesawn: “What’s the appropriate tip for ones bartender? Chad: A blank check, yes Lord. (slight chuckle) A proper tip is based on the personality and flair of the bartender. I always suggest at least 15% but you always do more if you enjoyed the interaction.”
DiamondKesawn: “Is it True that bartenders try and slip in the cheap alcohol on people who they think don’t know?” Chad: That is incorrect. “It depends on the bartender. I have heard stories about that, have I seen it? I have seen some bartenders do it but I’m like really? Did you really do that? That’s shortchanging the customer and I can’t do that.” DiamondKesawn: “So, Chad the Bartender. We want know.. What you drinking on?” Chad: “What I’m drinking on? I’m drinking on a drink called “COME GET THIS.” For those dark drinkers out there this drink has Henny, Remy, Lime Juice and Red Bull and I bet, once you finish that drink you gonna wanna “COME GET THIS.” Babeeeeee, the way he said that I wanted to come get ALL he had to offer. Now we all know that he me him doesn’t drink. However, if I did… Chile, I would come get IT…
DiamondKesawn: “Is it easy being a bartender?” Chad: “It’s easier being a Female bartender than it is a Male bartender. I know somebody is going to be mad at me for saying but in all actuality it is. Women get tipped for their looks, their breast, their buttocks and more. Men, we have to know sports, have drink knowledge and be able to tell you the integrity of the beverage.”
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COVER STORY
28 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
SidneyStarr ALL TRUTH. NO SHADE.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE JUE HAIR BY MZ. AMARIE STYLES MAKE UP BY NICOLE RICHARDSON
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r r a t S TRUE TEA!
ALL TRUTH. NO SHADE. trans jend r,tranz jend r/ adjective adjective: transgender; adjective: transgendered 1.denoting or relating to a person whose self-identity does not conform unambiguously to conventional notions of male or female gender.)
W
hen it comes to the worlds of Media, Beauty, Fun, Partying, Seduction, Mayhem, and Intrigue, there isn’t but one name that comes to mind, Sidney Starr. I recently had the chance to sit down with the Media Vixen and get to know her for the Transgendered woman that she is. It’s funny how if one would judge a book by its cover they would be totally wrong. This young lady is so humble, charming, fun, energetic, caring, and open that it warmed my heart to get to know her more. Get ready as I take you Behind the Camera for True Tea with Sidney Starr. I promise you, this is All Truth, No Shade. DK:Sidney. Thank you for taking the time to speak with Raynbow Affair. It is truly a pleasure to have this opportunity… Got to jump right into it and get it poppin… The world knows you as a Transgendered Female, could please advise what a Transgendered female is? Sid:A Transgendered Female is a woman who is born into the wrong body. I feel that I was born in the wrong body. I was born a male, but I was born feeling like I was a woman. It was a mind thing for me not so much a decision. I feel I was born this way. I was a girl who was born with the wrong gender parts. Ever since childhood I saw myself as a beautiful woman, and now that I am grown, look at me. I am a Beautiful Woman. There are so many meanings to being a Transgender Woman. For me it’s that I was born to be a female. I did girl things even before I knew I was attracted to men.
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DK:Yessssss Honey… For you knowing and feeling that you were born with the wrong gender parts, what was the transition process like as you went from a boy to the woman we have grown to love and adore? Sid:The transition was very hard. I started young and I feel like that helped me to be so so passable. I started taking hormones at 14, and hung with older transgender women who seen something in me and helped to make sure I stayed away from drugs and things like that. They always told me to not do drugs if I wanted my transition to be successful, as that would affect the hormones. I had my ups and downs as there were times I felt it was too hard, but I stuck with it. I went through high school doing it and we see the results. DK:Being in this lifestyle many of us know that sometimes our families can either be down for the cause or totally shut down on us. What was your family support experience like? Sid:Being that I started so young it was very hard. My family felt like I was too young, I didn’t know what I was doing, they actually thought it was a phase. They really weren’t accepting at first, but as time went on and they seen it was really me they started to accept it and grew to understand it when I was in my late teens early 20s. Right now I have the 100% support of my family.
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“A Transgendered Female is a woman who is born into the wrong body. I feel that I was born in the wrong body�.
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DK:I got to know, because you know I’m nosey. How did we go from young girl in high school being an everyday female to being this socialite, celeb figure? You literally took it from the mall chilling to Celeb best friends. How did this happen for you? Sid:Chile, let’s just say in high school I always thought I was a celebrity. I was always talked about in school. My friends would always tell me how the whole class would talk about me and I was always the center of attention. That really showed me what I was meant to be. After High school, I became a Go Go Dancer in a heterosexual club and I didn’t tell anybody. It all started there it was like wild fire. Everyone wanted to know “Who was that girl?” That’s really how it happened for me. I was in the club, with a nice body. I was networking meeting celebs, you know celebs were always in the club and it just happened. It happened like warm milk. It just went through and I started getting from one place to another. Taking pictures! Knowing celebrities! It was something that just happened. I always knew I wanted to be a backup dancer and an actress. My first dream was to always be a backup dancer, but it kind of happened weird. I never thought I would be a go go dancer. Go go dancing is what started it. DK:How did you become so thick skin to be able to deal with everyone talking about you? We all know whether you are a celebrity or a common person, people talk about you and it’s not always good. When doing my research on you I noticed that you don’t address the haters. How did you get to that point? Sid:I will let you know it was hard. I will admit I had some moments where I was depressed and felt like I didn’t want to deal with it anymore. I even had suicidal moments, which no one knows but I did. But, I was like I have so many people that loved me. Like when I went to school the girls loved me. They would always tell me how I was so fabulous. I even had guys that would always tell me they respect me for being who I am and I would always think about that. For every 20 people that hate me there is 100 people that love me. I just kept that in my mind. Luckily, I never had anyone put their hands on me when I was in high school. I was blessed about that. I was never jumped. I was never beat up. It was kind of like a blessing, like Lord to God above he kept me safe. I feel like that’s what kept me strong. After I got out of high school things just got better. I started developing like the woman that I wanted to be and, I was developing greatly. That’s what made it so much easier and I was like “I don’t have to tell anybody” it’s not like I got to wear a sign saying I’m transgender. I went through a phase in my life where I didn’t want to tell anyone. That’s another thing that got me out there in the limelight as well cause I didn’t tell anyone at one point. When it got out that’s what made me popular. DK:Ummmm, it’s like the secret world of Sidney Starr got leaked? Sid:Right, Right! I was a down low woman. DK:Yesssss bish, you better give me down low teas honey! Sid:Yes! 34 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
DK:Okay, now being down low let’s take it back to our high school days. Now, I’m one to talk about nobody cause that’s not me but, I know me and in high school I had a lot of the boys who had girls but liked me after dark when no one was ever around. For you in high school, not only were you beautiful, not only were you young but you were always so free spirited and happy. I want to know, did you have those high school days that you would sit back and laugh like he be calling me, he be texting me, and no one knew? Sid:Yes! of course. I had so many people that got at me or tried to get at me in high school. It’s crazy because the people that would talk about me are the ones that try to holla at me now. So it’s so funny how the tables turned and, it’s like honey you’re going to have to pay me to see me now. Ima be like, up those pockets. Like I wanted you in high school but you didn’t want me. Remember I was skinny. You said I was a toothpick. But now I got this big booty and these big luscious titties and now you all up on me. Ummm hmmm, remember? Back then you didn’t want me, now I’m hot you all on me.
DK:Yesssss Honey. You make your haters into your motivators. Yes for inspiration…. Now, I want to know about these legendary titties honey. Exactly what size is Ms. Sidney Starr? Sid:I am… You would think I am a Double D but I’m not. I’m a small D which is proportionate to my size. I’m small, I’m short so it makes them look big but I’m a small D cup. I’m about a 36 or 38 D but they are definitely fat as hell. DK:I asked the fans, what they think your most prize asset is. Is it her breast? Her butt? Her Face? I must admit Breast and Butt had the biggest votes. To set the record straight from Ms. Sidney Starr, with every perfect fiber of your being, what is your favorite asset?
r r a t S DK:Yaaaaaas Bish Yassss. Okay, so years later you’re out of high school. You’re doing your thing. Like you said the original dream was to be a back-up dancer. And, clearly now we have new music by Sidney Starr, so the backup dancer dreams have turned into you being an artist. How did you transition from wanting to be the backup dancer ‘it’ girl to now I am the ‘IT’ girl on the front side as an artist. Sid:It was unexpected as I never ever thought I could see myself doing music. I basically had the people that told me “I see you being bigger than a backup dancer.” They said, “Sidney you are so much bigger than a backup dancer.” I agreed, so I was what do I do then. They told me they could get me in the studio and we could make a track. I was like nah, I can’t do music. Finally I was like F*** it, let me do it let me try it. I did it and I liked it. I ended up doing one song and I did a video for it and I liked it. Then I had backup dancers for me in my video. It was like wow. I never thought I had backup dancers. After that I did 3 more songs and they are all hits. My first song was a diss song. It came out on World Star and it hit heavy. It was a diss song, I came out heavy. My first song was a diss song, that’s how crazy I am. It got a good buzz it was cool for the moment. The song had a meaning, it was called “I’m Here Now” which is what I was, Sidney Starr is here now.
DK:Being the ‘IT’ girl the fans love you. They watch you and you can do no wrong. What’s is it like a day in the life of Sidney Starr? Sid:It’s so much fun. It’s so adventurous. I like to be out there and keep myself in the limelight. But, I work hard as well. I work hard for who I am. I have made a lot of mistakes in my past, but I am a very interesting person to be around. I am always thinking of new ideas to get people talking. Ideas that make people want more from me. If you was with me for 24hrs you would be like “Oh yeah, this girl is what’s up.” You would be like “I need to hang out with you more.” That’s why people like being around me. They love my vibe and they love that I take chances. I take chances, I work hard, and I do what people tell me I can’t do.
Sid:My favorite asset is my Face, Titts and Ass. But okay, since I have to pick one I would say my ass. I will admit my ass has gotten me into a lot of stuff. My ass is like magic, so I would have to say my ass. DK:I was on your IG and I seen a video. You was in Atlanta in the club and all I know is you bent over and I was like “Oh My Gosh Becky Look at her Butt.” So, I want to know. Is Sidney Starr a Twerk Girl? Sid:Yesssss. I am a Twerk Queen, when I tell you all I do is twerk twerk twerk. Because my ass is bodacious. It speaks to me. My ass be like “Okay, you know you gotta twerk for them today right? You know you gotta get the people’s attention.” That’s why so many people are fascinated with me. I always get so many messages from girls asking how did I get this ass. Asking, “what do I need to do?” They always wanna know my secret. Then I have guys hitting me up always sending me pics of their you know penises. Which I don’t mind looking at them. You know, I don’t mind looking at a few and seeing all types of penises. I get everybody roared up when I start twerking my ass. DK:I heard it’s real! I heard it is all authentically 100% yours. Is it true? Sid:Ummmm. Well, lets just say it’s definitely real in the eyes of the beholder. I got some secrets to how I got it. You know what they say, “A Girl Never tells her secret.” DK:Yessssss. All they know is she got body body body.
Sid:Yes, all they know is she got BUNZ. Cause imam tell you. I ain’t never use to be this thick. I was a skinny thing. I was all of 99 pounds. DK:Ooh, you had no body. Sid:All I had was a cute face. DK:Cute face and long hair with a slim waist. Sid:Yes. Cute face and long hair that was it. Long hair with them braids. You know what they use to call me? They called me little Alicia Keys because I was real skinny and use to wear the Alicia Keys braids. People said I reminded them of a little Alicia Keys. DK:Okay, obviously you are the ‘IT’ girl. You are all grown up, you are a woman. You are a lady. You set the example for many. You said earlier that the older generation of transgender women #RAMag January 2015 PAGE 35
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2015 YOU WILL SEE ME ALL OVER YOUR TV SCREEN
helped mold you to be whom you are today. So for that younger generation who is in middle school, high school and will hear this and be inspired by it, enjoy it, and love you and love it. What are some words of encouragement you can give to them as maybe they don’t have access to the glam girls as you did? Sid:My best advice for the younger girls around that 14-15 year old age that I was, in my opinion it’s so much easier now to get to getting hormones. I would say seek a clinic. A place they specialize in giving hormones, like health center. I would not suggest getting it off the black market which is just buying it from someone that you barely even know. You don’t know what you’re buying. You don’t know if they tampered with it. You need to be safe. It ain’t nothing but a thing to get on the internet and find a place that specializes in hormones for transgendered women. Just get it the right way. Don’t do it from getting it on the black market. Don’t do any of this silicone pumping. I do not recommend any girls doing that. Let the hormones take its course. The hormones can develop your body more than you know. And, the number 1 thing is stay away from drugs. That can ruin you. Ruin your beauty. Ruin everything. And, be safe. Protect yourself. Always use condoms, I don’t care how fine he is. The fine ones you should be worried about. Take those steps and you will be fine. And, always be honest. DK:Now you said you knew from a young age. What about that person who is unsure? Sid:I will say, my advice is go with your gut feeling. Go with your heart. If you feel that this is what you are don’t fight it. If you go on and say well I know this is me but I’m afraid because I don’t want my family to talk about me or my friends to talk about me. The longer you wait the harder it gets. Say if you are 18 and wait until 26. It will be even harder to do it. It takes it’s course better the younger you are.
I believe in having a boyfriend, but for me right now it’s hard to have just one guy. You gotta have a little variety. Ain’t nothing wrong with that! You can eventually settle down. That’s how you gotta work it. I get hit on all the time. It’s hard for me to have only one boyfriend. Naw, I’m still young and I want to enjoy what I can at the moment. I kind of just got a guy for everyday of the week. You gotta have fun. It’s the time when you can do that, then it’s the time you get to that age and you are ready to settle down. You gotta protect yourself. Don’t be dumb having raw sex with everyone. There is a way to be promiscuous and be safe. Ensure you get checked out. Now I’m not saying have sex with everybody, damn. But, if you do do what you do pull out that condom. DK:Do you ever get time to get away from the world and cuddle up with your mom and be regular ole Sidney? Sid:Of course I do, I’m a very very sensitive person believe it or not. People think I’m just wild and crazy but I have a heart. I’m a very emotional person like I cry a lot. It’s just because I’m a girl and that’s what girls do. I do get those moments where I just want to lay down and be under my mommy because I’m a mommy’s girl and just ask questions about my career and just make shakes because I love shakes. We just do normal things like go get our nails and feet done and I don’t even want to think about the whole Sidney Starr thing. That’s when I’m just regular old Sidney just worrying about my family and wanting to be a regular next door type of girl who has feelings and just wants to be normal and not have all of the cameras on me. I do get those moments where I’ll be like “Ma, what are we going to do for Christmas?” I like moments like that. I love just having family time for the holidays and being somebody else. Just putting Sidney Starr in her box for a while. Just being another person and just eating up everything, being a pig. I may want to walk around the house with messed up hair. I like being regular. DK:What can we expect from Sidney Starr in 2015?
What I mean by that is if you develop as a man, it will be harder to turn that around. The younger you are taking your hormones the easier it is to kill off the testosterone. I say just go for it. Yes, you will come across obstacles but it’s all worth it in the end.
Sid:Let me say this, 2015 you will see me all over your TV Screen. You will be seeing me on VH1 and that’s all I can say. You will see me on VH1 doing the damn thing, so be ready. It’s a Tyra Banks produced show and it’s coming in 2015.
DK:In the world of Sidney Starr, all the Beauty and all the Glam, how do you deal with multiple individuals who try to date you and take you away from the other ones?
I never thought I would be on VH1. Never thought I would be on a Reality Show, always wanted to be but never thought it would happen. Stay Tuned
Sid:I handle it like any other woman does. You have a man that can do for you. You have a man that can do for you in the bedroom. You have the man for conversation. And, you have the man that you can just wile out with and have fun. No strings attached.
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 37
38 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
Life, Love, and Longevity Is Greatness Breaking Through
SOMETHING IN THE AIR By: Alfreda Covngton
N
ot being charged, bomb threats, beatings, choke holds, “he seemed older than he was,” “I was fearful of my life.” The year 2014 has, indeed, been a trying year. So many crimes against people, particularly by vigilantes and law enforcement, have happened over the year. It feels like a new type of Jim Crow, not only for black men, but on women and the transgendered. Yes, Michael Brown and Eric Garner has sparked a “Black Lives Matter” movement, as it should. These tragic killings at the hands of those sworn to protect the people have further separated them from us as far as distrust in the criminal justice system is concerned. But, a lot of other murders and assaults have occurred in the transgender community. A lot of society is confused or indifferent about the transgender community; what is misunderstood may not garner a lot of attention or empathy. A c c o r d i n g t o T h e Tr a n s g e n d e r Vi o l e n c e Tracking Portal (TVTP), every 38 hours, a transgendered person is murdered; and, “only 6% of the world” reports their statistics to the TVTP. TVTP has followed the murders and other instances of violence against transgendered people since May 2014, including the murders of Tiffany Edwards in Cincinnati, Ohio and Kandi Hall in Maryland; a transgendered teenager, who was held in an adult prison without being formally charged with a crime; and violent attacks against trans-women in Indiana, at a Seattle and California Pride Parade, and in Atlanta Georgia (an attacker later boasted of his attack on the transgendered female in the California attack). That’s just the attacks that were reported (transgenderviolence.org, 2014). Those who were caught in these crimes were not charged; namely, “no gender identity hate crime charges” were sought. Understandably, many in the transgendered community may be afraid to come forward about attacks because of harassment,
misunderstandings about what it is to be transgendered, and they face retaliation or violence. Murders and other crimes may be unreported; and, people who commit these crimes are under-prosecuted because law enforcement may be reluctant to differentiate between, or are indifferent to or untrained on sexual orientation and gender identity (transgenderviolence.org, 2014). Because of this, many prosecutors do not seek hate crime charges against those who attack or murder transgendered individuals.
Every 38 hours, a transgendered person is murdered; and, “only 6% of the world” reports their statistics to the TVTP What can be done to raise awareness in mainstream media on the rights of the transgendered? Will there be a movement for not only the transgendered, but also the LGB and Q community? One thing I have been big on from nay high is music and other art forms. Realistically, music and other art forms have been a platform since forever. It was a major form during slavery, especially important for the Underground Railroad, where songs were used as a form of code to lead runaway slaves to special points. It was big in the 1950s and 1960s for the Civil Rights Movement. One thing I loved about the Civil Rights Movement was how artists used music to be a rallying cry to bring awareness to what was happening in the black community. Even in the early 1990s, you had artists like NWA and Public Enemy rapping against what plighted us at that time: cop violence. And you had people like Gordon Parks, who photographed certain aspects of black life during that time.
It seems that some of today’s mainstream artists are different from the artists of the 1950s-1970s in that music isn’t used as a tool to uplift and bring awareness to issues that affect so many. There are so many powerful voices that can shed light on these issues. Conscientious artists seem to be a dying breed. Yes, many use social media tools like Twitter, especially Black Twitter, to speak out against violence and intolerance. If not for Twitter, there would be so many issues not talked about in the media, including Michael Brown, the LGBTQ and sex worker communities. But, music is a universal language that can span generations and nations. Today, our generation, and generations after us, have the opportunity to be the new Marcus Garveys, Malcolm X’s, Ghandis, and Kings. We can be the new Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamers, and Sylvesters of our time. Indeed, Twitter and many other forms of social media are our Freedom Songs, our means of showing the world what we are about and what we stand against. May we continue to use them wisely, not only for fun, but also for fighting injustice and using our voice for uplifting and positive vibes. REFERENCE: Transgender Violence Escalates in 2014 in US. From http://www.transviolencetracker.org/ index.php/articles/103-reports-of-transgenderviolence-escalates-in-2014 (ACCESSED December 9, 2014)
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 39
RA STYLE: INNOVATION S
pring is just around the corner ladies and gents, to which we all welcome her with open arms. As we brave through the cold elements there is a sense of new ideas and advancement in the air. The history of fashion repeats itself quite often. Yet every now and then someone comes along and places the whole (fashion) scene on its head. Some are in the sights of the fashion elites and others are on the radar. In this edition of RA Style we plan to explore the new trends and innovators shaping the 2015 fashion season. The fashion trends for 2015 are plentiful, yet the bold styles are a reflection of last year’s avant garde nature. In terms of color pastels are a plus with a pop of pigmented hues for the femme. The homme (male) look has taken a slight change with a much bolder image. The color pallet is filled with strong emphasize on the hues. Pastels are also welcome, yet blues (cobalt), greens (teal) in combination with muted colors (pink) will tame the fierce swagger within the wayward gentlemen. Excessive layering is a must. Although not always encouraged by yours truly, his & hers is making a brief comeback. Show you sense of intellect and style by pairing plaid on plaid with a mix of small and large variations. The decade being the forerunner this season is very specific modern 70’s. Professional, casual, active, outwear wear and accessories will all contain the Art Deco influence of the 70’s. The vibe is about prints, imagery and texture. The fashion innovators of 2015 are spread far and wide. In the world where fashion is its own modus operandi, having innovation is not enough. Motivation keeps the wheels turning and makes achievement ones birth right. The following innovators are rapidly paving their way to success.
40 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
International Euro-Scene
West Coast US
Hannah Weiland the 20ish art history and textile graduate founded Shrimps Co. UK in 2013. A resident of London, England her success has blossomed in a very short time. Hannah has taken the world by storm with her brilliantly colored faux fur coats. The colorful furs can be purchased at Net-a-Porter and Barnes in the US. Hannah has categorized her designs as “fun fashion” that provides a hint of 60’s flare. According to Hannah the name “Shrimp” reflects back to her childhood nickname. When asked why shrimps she explains she was small and pink.
Melody Ehsani a native of Los Angeles, California with a Persian heritage made a life altering decision after completing a stint of law school. Melody decided to discontinue her law studies and embark on a path of self discovery. Being very aware and concerned with her family’s opinion of her decision Melody began to seek her passion through her artwork. Her designs consisted of sneakers and jewelry. Feeling the urge to learn more Melody took her life savings and headed to Japan. After living abroad 3 years she returned well versed in the business of product design. Melody established her signature design business (M.E.) in 2007. She was recently given the spotlight (fall 2014) by Jay Z’s Life +Time (Where I’m From) sponsored by Vitamin Water.
Danny Nguyen from Houston, Te x a s i s o f A s i a n d e s c e n t . Danny began his humble beginnings as an apprentice i n h i s m o t h e r ’s a l t e r a t i o n business. As a young child Danny was exposed to several fabrics and techniques of the apparel business. The seeds of humility and pearls of truth shaped him into a cutting edge d e s i g n e r. D a n n y ’s d e s i g n s are bold enchantments that have leapt from the pages of a storybook with androgynous flare. Danny is the founder of DNC (Danny Nguyen Couture). DNC is based in Houston, New York and Los Angeles.
Southwest US
www.shrimps.co.uk
www.melodyehsani.com
www.dannynguyencouture.com
RA STYLE
AND MOTIVATION!
For all the RA followers and fashion heat seekers who are interested in the above fashions please visit each innovators website listed below each caption. RA style knows where to find what’s hot in fashion no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Midwest US
Southeast US
Berny Martin Haitian born is a resident of Indiana and founder of Catou Wear retail design and manufacturing company as of 2005. Named after Berny’s grandmother, Catou is world renowned for professional and personal eloquence through the art of dress. Berny also established the Midwest Fashion week in Indiana in 2006. Catou designs recently made national publication in Ebony magazine late last year. The model in the article was wearing Catou menswear apparel
Altrichia Cook African American is a resident of Lakeland, Florida. Her humble beginnings began as a young single mother. After college and giving birth Altrichia found it difficult to find a bathing suit that catered to her post maternal physique. With her ambitions the foundation for her swimwear business Allusions by A. Lekay was formed. Allusions swimwear designs are fashioned to be high waist garments giving the physique a more streamline silhouette.
www.catouwear.com
www.allusionsbyalekay.com
East Coast US
Zana Baynes is a former high end retail associate who allowed her passion for leather crafting lead her to a path of unique leather fashions with a soon to follow celebrity clientele. Placing firm roots in New York City in 2010. The opening of Zana Bayne Leather was just the beginning for the 20 some San Francisco Art graduate. Zana’s designs are risqué with a burlesque undertone. The finely crafted designs are noted to play on the lines of the body. In the event you are bold enough to show it and know it. With a slight bondage flare the designer caters to what you want, what you think you need and how you like it. Zana’s S& M inspired fashions are the hottest forms of expression on the New York scene. Zana also made the Forbes 30 under 30 lists in 2011. www.zanabayne.com
By: CK SMITH
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 41
THE WEBSERIES ISSUE
REMIX
By: DiamondKesawn
the SERIES
You know I stay up on the Latest, Greatest and Exclusive. Get ready as I introduce you to “Remix.” Remix is a new online series that brings the worlds of the Entertainment Industry and Everyday Survival into one view. Defind as: a Cool, New, Music & Drama told on the backdrop of Atlanta’s Music Industry. Remix follows Kayla Rogers(Mia Darj’de), a young sexy pop singer whose recent ascension to fame creates a culture unfamiliar to her. Remix was inspired by the need to provide both Quality Content & Production in a climate where WebTV fails to meet a professional standard as an alternative to the traditional television medium. Additionally, Remix will capitalize on the plight of Atlanta’s burgeoning Film Industry by representing Atlanta the way it deserves. Remix creates a visualization of the music industry in a manner that captures today’s youth, yet successfully sneaks in several plots that speaks to a more mature audience. Simultaneously, Remix brings forth several subplots that speaks to the human spirit. 42 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
LOVE, COMEDY, & DRAMA like you’ve never seen in a WebSeries. I had a chance to catch up with the creator of the series Darius Bailey and a few of the cast members. Let me bring you up to speed on the discussion.
DARIUS BAILEY(CREATOR) Who is your favorite character in the series and why? Although all characters are relatable and a product of experiences of both myself and those close to me, I must say “Blake” because his journey as a young man related closely to my own. Likes myself and all young men, you have to discover who you are as a man and the things that prevent you from growing into the man you wish to become. What drew you to creating this series? Remix was created at a time when my creativity was suppressed by life and obligations. as an actor I became frustrated with the traditional path of obtaining roles. Additionally, I wanted to create work for other actors in Atlanta. Music has always been a passion of mine so I wanted to create a story around something I was passionate about. What was your goal when choosing to green light the production of this series? Green lighting production was a struggle:would I be able to pull off the vision? Could I ignite the passion in enough actors, producers to help me create a compelling work? My goal then and now is to
LOVE, COMEDY, & DRAMA Jefferey Scott Wolcott https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyScottWolcott M a r c u s M i d d l e t o n h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / p a g e s / M a r c u s Middleton/706483386051475 Angela Williams https://www.facebook.com/angela.williams.33865 Erika D. Weathers https://www.facebook.com/erika.d.weathers Sunny Kelley https://www.facebook.com/sunny.kelley.146 Taurus Davis https://www.facebook.com/taurus.davis.33
LEADING LADY “KAYLA” (MIA DARJ’DE) What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about Kayla’s character is how real her story is. She is like many artist out there that’s learning the business and that’s trying to find their way. I’m excited to be apart of capturing it those moments. How do you relate to your character? Because I am an entertainer and I’ve experienced the road to becoming and artist and a dancer, her life truly runs parallel to mine in so many ways. The journey is not easy. Disappointments will arise but the hard work is what makes it all worth it in the end. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? I try to get as silly as possible to get the initial anxiety out. I think being comfortable with yourself, making mistakes, and being receptive to constructive criticism is the most important thing. For this particular script, I do draw from life experiences as a performer and from other fellow artists. I really try to focus on the message in each scene and what is it that we’re trying to convey. I try to bring a positive attitude to the table reads as well as on set because I do believe that energy bounces off of one another so you definitely don’t want to bring bad vibes. And of course, in my spare time, I try to catch up on movies for inspiration. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? *You must pick 1 person in good fun* present quality content, and a film that uses great music and talent to tell my story. What has been your most memorable episode thus far in the series and why? The first episode represents the birth. My favorite. Who was your Target Market for this show? My target audience is the Atlanta urban community but ultimately anyone who enjoys great music. I want the world to see how compelling and influential or culture is on the world. What’s the one thing you want the fan base to remember about this show?
I think I’ll keep that a secret but let’s just say he’s cute and I love all of his muscles lol TrueTea: She MUST be talking about Marcus Middleton because Shon Berry is Skinny Cute. LoL… You ain’t heard that from me. Who is the Set Clown of the cast? It’s not just one person honestly. Everybody is crazy as hell What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? I can’t express enough how important it is to study your craft. Preparation is key; however, don’t be afraid to mess up or be yourself. And last but not least, just do it. Eliminate all procrastination. That’s extremely important.
The great music that will be featured in the each episode.
How can the fans find you?
What is your ultimate goal for this series?
All of my social media is @miadarjde. Website is www.miadarjde.com
My ultimate goal is for the world to connect with each character in one way or another and for Remix The Series to become the premiere alternative to the traditional TV viewing experience. By that I mean the premiere web-based series. Shout out the ENTIRE PRINCIPAL cast. Mia Darj’de https://www.facebook.com/miadbraswell Shon Berry https://www.facebook.com/deshontayb
TINY (SEAN BAKER) What is your favorite part about your character? He’s Dark and Mysterious. he doesn’t say a lot, but makes his presence known. #RAMag January 2015 PAGE 43
THE WEBSERIES ISSUE How do you relate to your character? I can relate to him 1 because I actually use to work private Security & train them. So kind of Art imitating life, and vice Versa. I can also relate to his Loyalty to what he does, and his silent yet effective presence. How long have you been acting? The Fool? All my life... lol no but a little over 10 years. How did you get on to the series? I met the creator of Remix, Darius Bailey while working on the set of TV series Resurrection, doing Stand-in work for Omar Epps. We spoke about our backgrounds, love of this work, we clicked, and the rest is history. Thinking 20 episodes from now. What kind of growth or change do you imagine for your character in your mind? I can possibly see discovering a little bit more about the character. The background & depth of his relationship to (Shep) and explaining the level of loyalty. Aside from just doing the dirty work, & being the muscle, or hit man when needed. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? *You must pick 1 person in good fun* My Acting Sis Sunny Kelley. From day 1 has been a positive inspiration since tackling the acting biz here in ATL. Much Love & Respect to her.
Secret Cast Crush? Lol Tiny..bc he is Tiny Lol
Is it ME or does this seem like a set up? Sunny chose him and he chse Sunny….. Reallyyyy????? Umm Hmmmm. That ain’t my business tho…
Who is the Set Clown of the cast? Shep.. Marcus Middleton
What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired?
Do it with PASSION, or Don’t do it at all. ELLE (SUNNY KELLEY) Now Sunny is one of those girls we call a “Never Know.” She is naturally beautiful with a Body for the GAWDZZZZ. However, she has a very simplistic style and sofy Spirit. But don’t get it twisted, You Never Know when she gonna go in the closet and come out serving you Cat Woman Realnesssss… Haaaaay Sunny. What is your favorite part about your character? Elle is Relentless, Forceful, NO Nonsense, In Control (at first)... Highly Motivated Against Every Obstacle She has Faced. She is The Exception! How do you relate to your character? I relate to Elle in a sense that- I too, refuse to give up. Every Negative Tactic..I make my mission to Crush. I want what I deem is Best for My Children What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? I analyze the characteristics and mannerisms. I then, imagine what may have potentially caused them to be that way..(good or bad).. It helps me to Apply similar thinking. Empathy* Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your 44 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
Who is the Set Flirt? Mia and Shon Berry. .perhaps. .lol I told y’all…. DiamondKesawn knows…. LoL Where can the fans find you? IMDB: Sunny Kelley IG: SUNNY_KELLEY Facebook (FanPage) ArtistSunnyKelley
BLAKE (IN OLDER FORM) SHON BERRY Babee, so like. You know I must keep it 100 right??? Shon Berry is a Fineee child of a mother. He has this secret Swag that he doesn’t know how to use. LoL. However, every now and again you catch him knowing just what to do and who to do it to… Umm Hmm, he think he slick, Oh, did I mention he always smell like Polo cologne? Ooh chile, this young man is just what the doctor order for my TV screen….. Haaaayyy Shonnn Berryy... What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about my Character that i like is that Blake is educated and has a degree in nautical engineering which is a uncommon degree to have especially for a black male. Blake How do you relate to your character? I can relate to my character Blake in the way many kids have grown up, living in a single parent home and we are both college educated. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? When its time to learn a script I sit down read over it and then i ask
What is your favorite part about your character? The favorite part about my character is that I’m always about business. Always looking for the next gig to boost me to the next level. How do you relate to your character? I can relate to the character because this is how I use to think. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? I meditate before I start to learn my script How long have you been acting? I have been acting for 1 year What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Believe in yourself. Know the value you have to bring to the industry.
SALVADOR ‘SAL’ MYERS (JEFFREY SCOTT WOLCOTT) What is your favorite part about your character? He’s a self centered S.O.B. Has only one objective and that’s to make money. Doesn’t care who gets hurt as long as his record company benefits. In the long run, it’s all about Sal maintaining power and control and he does that well. He’s a very complex person that’s highly educated, but is as street wise as a drug dealer. myself question about the scenes and what is the big picture that “I” my character is trying to show and how can I go about showing it. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? I’ve been only acting for a year now, I started taking acting classes in December 2013 How did you get on to the series?
How do you relate to your character? I don’t. I have never been one to be focused on money and I care a lot about people. But, I am complex and very street wise. I may not say it at the time, but you can count on that I’m thinking it. Who is the Set Clown of the cast? The Director.
I learned about this show through a friend of my mines who knew Darius and advised that he was looking for actors to play in the show. He got me in contact with him and my life has never been the same since.
I Agree. Darius Bailey is a Class Clown of all Clowns. Did I mention he was Fine too? Okay… Back to work.
What is your favorite thing to do when not on set?
Who is the Set Flirt?
My favorite thing to do when I’m not on set is to watch movies and workout.
The Producer.
Yassss. I see that Body. Sittin up here with them lil arms with that definition… Ooh, imma call you Websters cuz you got all the definitions… Take me to the gym with you. I need to keep my definitions up. Okay i’m lying. Who is the Set Clown of the cast? The set clown I would have to say is Marcus Middleton, he’s a fool behind the scenes
So he just gonna say that and not tell me which one???? You see how they be… What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Acting is child’s play and that’s it. Get training first and foremost, and don’t take anything in this business too serious.
What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired?
It has been a long and fun review. Def make sure you keep up with Remix: The Series and it’s cast. This is def a show to keep on your radar…..
The best thing i can say to people that no matter what your dream is go for it regardless of what other people say because there are not the ones walking in your shoes. Give everything you do with your whole he(art) because when you do you are truly creating art.
Remix Online: http://www.remixtheseries.com/-bts-of-remix.html Remix Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iID3o8x_umw
ANDREW (TAURUS DAVIS)
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 45
THE WEBSERIES ISSUE
BI
By: DiamondKesawn
the SERIES
Described as: “Bi: The Web Series is a scripted series that follows Alex (David J. Cork), a young hopeless romance, juggling friends, work, responsibilities, and most importantly, sexuality.”
T
his series takes me into a world that I am unfamiliar with. The world of Bi-Sexuality. Now, my best friend Devon Langham will tell you, we never really believed that one could be Bi and have a 50/50 desire. By episode 5 of BI, I was singing another tune. Allow me to introduce you to the cast (along with my breakdowns.) David J. Cork “Alex” (@davidjayc) is an actor, writer, singer, producer and co-founder of BiUSTV from Indianapolis, Indiana. After transferring from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia to New York City in 2009, he completed his BFA in drama from New York University in 2012. During his time in New York, David was been in involved in off Broadway productions at the Red Room Theater, Producers Club, Cherry Lane Theater, Jack Theater, the Flea Theater, the American Theater of Actors and a few others. He currently stars in Thru 25, (@thru25) a web-series written by Marchelle Thurman and made his television debut in the BET television film, Gun Hill, written and directed by Reggie Rock Bythewood. Bi: The Web-series marks David’s screenwriting debut. He is forever grateful for everyone showing their support for this project and hopes his work will reflect what is to come from future BiUS productions. Bianca Garcia “Camille” (@BiancaVision) Bianca Garcia, a Miami native, is a poet, actress, and educator. She obtained her BA in Creative Writing and Psychology from Florida State University, with a concentration in poetry and creative non-fiction. While there, she studied under the tutelage of esteemed poet David Kirby. Selected works include: “Butcher Kid”, “La Bruja”, “Drown”, and “Howl of the Blood Moon”. Bianca has taught poetry and theatre in Miami and New York City Public Schools.
46 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
This is her second year with Community Word Project and she is thrilled to be working and to continue growing with this dynamic and essential youth program. As an actress, Bianca recently finished a production of the new work Rules of the World, and is slated to start filming the indie feature For Wine and Roses in 2014. She is compiling a collection of poems, charting ritual and identity in the female experience of the Mayan diaspora. Glenn Quentin “Kai” (@GlennQuentin) is an Actor, Writer, Producer born and raised in Miami, FL. High school alum of New World School of the Arts and BFA Acting graduate of Rutgers University Mason Gross. Writer and Producer for StageBuddy. com @stagebuddythtr Cast member of the long running Off Broadway comedy “Platanos and Collard Greens” @platanosg Past producer credits include “The Service List NYC” (To and Fro Productions), “A Walk Within” (MediaFilmz), “STILL” (G Tree Productions), “Leftovers” Staged Reading (Alchemical Theater Lab), “Red, White and Detroit” (Crownwheel Pictures) and creator of “Spoken Art Play Festival” (SPEAK). Some acting credits include “Boardwalk Empire” (HBO), “Blue Bloods” (CBS), “You Can’t Die Here” (Millennial Group), “incitement” (MediaFilmz), “A Midsummer Nights Dream” (Shakespeare’s Globe). Quentin was awarded Most Innovative Script from the 2013 Thespis F e s t i v a l f o r h i s p l a y “ D i n n e r Wi t h t h e Stevensons”. Richardson Pierre “Damien” (@LawNorder9) is a native of Massachusetts who obtained a BA in Theater from Clark Atlanta University. Upon graduating college, he relocated to NYC to pursue a career in acting. He is elated to be cast as Damien Brown in Bi: The web-series. Tarion Taylor Anderson “Julian” (@tariontaylor) has been in the performing
arts world since the age of three. Growing up with a mother that was a choreographer and a father who was once an opera singer and model, Tarion grew up with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. After Graduating from the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston ,he moved to the Big Apple to attend college and pursue his dreams as a professional. Tarion has since worked with major brands like Nike, MTV, The Discovery Channel, and Beyonce just to name a few. Tarion is currently in the off Broadway summer hit “Play/Date” and is starring in two web series that debut this summer Kyrstina Bailey “Megan” (@KrystinaShanel) is a 2011 graduate of Manhattanville College. She double majored in Theater and Education. Shortly after that she became a resident actress at The Flea Theater and has been featured in four independent films that have allowed her to receive IMDb credits. Krystina currently resides in New York City and is freelancing with both Take 3 Talent and Emerging Talent Agencies. She also just recently signed with Talent Ink Management LA and NY and has two other web series out right now. You can find out more about her by visiting KrystinaBailey.com Now that I have done the formal introduction. Let me give you a glimpse into the world of “BI” as discussed with the team.
Diamond: Ashton and David give the fans a formal introduction of each of you A: I’ll go first. I’m Ashton, I’m 25 originally from New Bedford, Massachusetts. I kind of been doing this video thing for a couple of years. I met David when I first moved to the city and we’ve been friends ever since and this project came around and we decided to do it, but it became a lot more than by the web series it became a movement for us, it became a way for us to get under represented voices to media on the screen through streaming content and that eventually became BI us TV D: Wow what an introduction. Well I am David J. Cork, I am 25. I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. I moved to New York when I was about 19 to pursue a degree in acting from NYU. Around 2012 was when I graduated I decided to basically sit down and write a story about my life. Well not necessarily my life but things that were inspired by my life and felt it was a story I wanted to tell because I felt people were not represented before and I didn’t really see myself on television so I wanted to create something that was for me and be able to share it with other people so everyone could learn from it. Diamond: So, David I have to know the episode that we seen and episodes we will come to see, is this really your life on TV? D: As a writer you’re supposed to write what you know and I say I took some things that came from my life and exaggerated them, so to a degree yes but everything has to be exaggerated for television. Diamond: These characters are they friends of yours in real life are they taken from friends who you know or are they something you created? D: The characters are actually based off of people that I know to a degree and there are also people I just made up. For example, Kai is a combination of my best friend since I was 5 and one of my roommates. I kind of blended then together because this was someone I really wanted people to meet and know. But a lot of the other characters came from I need someone to come in and say these lines and oh wait there’s a whole person here that I can created to say these lines. So a lot of these characters of in place to help move the story along and so it got to a point, really the first episode is based off of things I dealt with but as the story moves along it becomes a whole world that I created based off somethings that happened to me Diamond: Ashton, as the Director of this product, how was it for you going into it to this and take the vision that David had created and now execute it for the audience base? A: Well it was actually quite fun because me and David have been friends and he was one of the first people I met when I moved here so we have this really great relationship where we can be honest and tell each other and feed off each other. So I just I read the script early way when David first started writing, not knowing I was going to Direct it and I would give notes and say I think you should do this or I think you should do this, then it actually came to directing and that’s when I put my staple on it. I said ok I want to try it like this and we really work together really well and it quite amazing to have someone who knows you and who believes in who you are and what you bring to the table and that’s David. Diamond: What has the feedback been and the response been from people who you don’t know who are now just patrons who view? A: The feedback has been really great. People finally seen somebody who is Bi and not the traditional what Hollywood would cast as Bi as greedy or overly sexual those things that typical media plays on sexuality. It’s been people loving obviously David, they love him and it’s really great when people connect to your character because at the end of the day that’s what the show is about. It’s about the characters and their journey so it’s really awesome that people connect to what they see.
D: And something else that has been really great is just by connecting with something that is bisexual its starts the conversation of bisexuality which is a something that is often kind of glanced over, ignored or not really talked about too much and with this show a conversation is started about bisexuality and I’m getting in touch with different bisexual networks that I didn’t even know were around because bisexual is so hidden almost A: And what’s also crazy is we happen to launch our first episode during bisexual awareness week, which was unplanned, it was organic, which was Gods working or whoever you believe upstairs doing. We came up with a date; we set a date that we wanted to start putting stuff out and it just so happens to be bisexual awareness week. It was like God saying you guys are on the right track. Diamond: Ashton are you Bi? A: No, I’m gay I have a boyfriend, I’m very gay. Diamond: You have a what? A: I have a boyfriend, we’ve been together for almost 2 ½ years now. Diamond: For you, David you being Bi are you equally attracted to both or do you have a primary and a sub primary? D: I believe I am equally attracted to both. Diamond: With being equally attracted to both; how do you deal with that to create a world of equality, if that makes sense? So in essence if one doesn’t outweigh the other how do you choose your preference for the moment? D: That’s pretty deep. Honestly for me it’s all about who you are. The sex doesn’t really matter to me as much as who are. How can I talk to you? How can we help build something with each other together. If I’m attracted to you mentally and spiritually and physically obviously then I feel like we can build something together. Being male or female doesn’t matter to me, it just about who you are. A: But isn’t that the same way as us guys talk to guys. Its all about the person we just care about who you are, it really doesn’t matter what color skin you have or how long your hair is or some people say you have to be taller than me. Diamond: With this web-series as it continues to grow and develop and without giving the house away, what can we expected to see unfold? A: I think we almost set it up for you. You can almost, if you watch you can see what’s happening and I don’t know If that’s just me because I’m connected and I know what happens but I think you can see whats gonna happen it’s kind of clear. If I was to ask you what you think is going to happen what do think you will say? Diamond: For all the fans out there please give then all the social media. D: The easiest way to reach us is at our website, www.BiUSTV.com , IG & Twitter: Bi_thewebseries, and our company BiUS productions we have our own IG & Twitter for that as well; 4UBiUS .
Listen, when it comes to Web Series, BI has really set the bar for me. From the Storyline, to the cast all the way up to the delivery. This is def a show to add to your Favorites List!
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THE WEBSERIES ISSUE
T.R.A.D.E IT ALL
48 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
the s serie
INSIDE
the TRADE By: DiamondKesawn
Every now and then you get that web series that makes you think you are watching a Television show. This is what I discovered when I was introduced to “T.R.A.D.E it All.” Working in the entertainment industry and dealing with a few ‘Down Lo’ brothers, this is the series that was just up my alley. Described as: “As TRADE, the newest night club to hit Atlanta’s sexy nightlife prepares for its premiere, Jayden Woodard, a recently divorced father and owner of independent record label “The Grind” creates a link between ten prominent individuals involved in the entertainment industry that unlock The Reality About Downlow Experiences. These individuals being prominent figures in Atlanta are faced with a constant struggle to keep their down-low lives and sexuality a secret, to maintain their illustrious careers, but when it becomes too much the question lingers, would you Trade it all? A Series By : The Question Productions” This show represents a reality that I hear about daily. Creator KL Allen has tapped into a market that for the longest time has been overlooked. What happens when Fame, Fortune, Family and Friendships are put on the line? I love the constant inquiry of “Will You TRADE it All?” Enjoy as I get to catch up with a few of the cast members and see what they have to say. DE;VON FORBES (JAYDEN) De’Von the person appears to be a total goofball. He has a smile that brightens a room and a mild swagger that draws you in. His character Jayden is the total opposite. It’s amazing to see him go from De’Von to Jayden. Let’s see what he has to say… What is your favorite part of your character? I love that my character is a mogul and regardless of how many people are trying to sabotage, they ultimately respect him. I also like his cool approach to certain situations. How do you relate to your character?
Out of all the things that Jayden goes through, in the end he means well. I think I can relate mostly to his innocence and debonair attitude. What zone do you get into when its time to learn a new script? I don’t really do anything special. I just clear my head, get in a quiet space and read the whole script a few times all the way thru so I can visually play the story in my head. How long have you been acting? I’ve always done school plays and I actually minored in Theatre at Columbus State University. How did you get on the series? I saw online that the show was looking to fill a role. It wasn’t until I auditioned, that I found out that I was trying out for the main role of Jayden Woodard. The rest is history. Thinking 20 episodes from now. What kind of growth or change do you imagine for your character? 20 episodes from now, I see Jayden becoming less stressed and more welcoming as far as his sexuality. What is 1 characteristic that your character has that is the polar opposite of you as a person? Jayden is a lot more promiscuous than I would allow myself to be. Mostly every episode, he’s involved in some kind of sexual activity. What can we expect to see from your character as the series continue? You can expect to see Jayden finally get his hands dirty. Im going to leave it at that. Who is your secret cast crush?
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THE WEBSERIES ISSUE Elliott Pennington, he is so attractive... inside and out. The Lies He Tells. LoL! No sa, Elliot is cool and has a nerdy swag that is appealing. Heeey Elliot. What is your favorite thing to do when not on set? I love to write. T.R.A.D.E. It All has inspired me to push forward with certain projects I’ve been working on, so most of my energy goes into those. Set clown of the cast? Thats easy. Elliott and Clyde. When those 2 get together, you’re almost guaranteed to crack a rib from laughing so hard. These two also just happen to be Best Friends in real life. Set flirt of the cast? Akeem Gionnie Words of wisdom for upcoming actors? It may be cliche, but never stop pushing for your dreams. It only takes YOU to believe in yourself! ANTWAIN DONTE’ HILL (GIOVANNI ORTNELLI III) What is your favorite part of your character? My favorite part about my character is his career. I love being an highly educated, talented and well established in life. How do you relate to your character? I can relate to Giovanni because I live a similar lifestyle to the character. It is easy for me to embody exactly what he is dealing with and that causes me to enjoy my character that much more. What zone do you get into when its time to learn a new script? In order to et into my zone, I goto Starbucks and get a Venti Caramel Macchiato and I listen to Classical Jazz. It’s not only soothing and relaxing it also helps with my lines. How long have you been acting? I’ve been acting a little over 15 years. I started out on stage doing plays and that’s always been my passion. Iced one several commercials and this is my first actual role behind the camera acting. How did you get on the series? The writer, KL Allen and I actually belonged to a Service Fraternity where we met. As time grew so did our business relationship and he old me of he casting and I landed role. Thinking 20 episodes from now. What kind of growth or change do you imagine for your character? In 20 episodes I would have hoped Giovanni to be settled down and married living with happily with a family. I would also like to see him flourish in his career and back in school to become a Professor. What is one characteristic that your character has that is the polar opposite of you as a person?
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Lol. The one opposite Giovanni and I have is his negligence to his boyfriend. He is blinded by love and that is far from my personality. What can we expect to see from your character as the series continue? Lol. Good question, you’ll just have to stay tuned to see what’s next for Giovanni Ortnelli III Who is your secret cast crush? My secret crush.... Umm, I would have to say, well I honestly can’t think of one. Oh wait, the young lady who plays Nyla!!!! She is mad beautiful. Where can the fans find Mr. Hill? I can be found on IG and Twitter: @fashionghuru. Facebook: Antwain TheGhuru Hill and on the web at www.stampedeschoolofmodeling.com CLYDE LEWIS (DETECTIVE GREGORY BRIGGS) What is your favorite part about your character? Detective Briggs allows me to do things I normally wouldn’t do. For example, he is known for sleeping with multiple women in order to gather information for his case. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? First I read the entire script so that I can capture the overall mood
LYRIK LONDON (LONDON CAMBRIDGE) What is your favorite part about your character? His Style and sense of fashion. How do you relate to your character? We are both very confident and controlling What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? I listen to music and let it flow How long have you been acting? Just a couple years. What defines a Couple? (Catch the Shade he Throws.) How did you get on to the series? I had to audition What is one characteristic that your character has that is the Polar opposite of you as a person? He is vindictive. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? Me! What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired?
of the episode. When studying my scenes, I usually turn off my phone and just dive in. Oftentimes I will read a line two or three different ways before I am satisfied with the final product. How long have you been acting? I have been acting for about 6 years now. However I did do some theatre work all through high school. I’ve always loved acting whether it be on the stage or on the screen. How did you get on to the series? The show’s creator, K.L Allen happens to be my brother. He needed a cop and thought I would fit perfect for the role. Initially, it was supposed to be for a couple episodes but the role was expanded to a regular character.
Keep growing and learning..be a sponge ..soak up everything good u come close to. Where can the fans find you? All Social Media is @lyriklondon
All Images) Evan Jay. Hair/Make-Up: Charlene Salter-Legend Shoot Director: Clyde Lewis Creative Director: KL Allen
What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Just keep at it and study your craft. Every no you get is one step closer to that dream job. Where can the fans find you? Both IG and Twitter is @lifewithclyde
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THE WEBSERIES ISSUE
FREEFALL the SERIES By: DiamondKesawn
Taking a unique approach to the execution of Freefall, Band of Artist take it to another Level with this scripted series. Band of Artists is a film making collective made up of three “brothers in art” and based in Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta. BOA believes in providing EDGY, DIVERSE and COMPELLING content for film, television and the web while seeking to be a resource and inspiration to artists new and old who are committed to defying the odds and creating their own artistic revolution.
CREATOR: LAMONT PIERRÉ Who of the Main Cast is your Favorite Character? I personally don’t have a favorite character. I have favorite moments depending on what the characters are going through at the time and the strength of how well certain moments come together and play on screen. What drew you to creating this series? ○I created the series to bring something fresh and different to the world of LGBT films and TV. What was your goal when choosing to green light the production of this series? My goal when creating FREEFALL was just to be open and allow myself to be a student of film making all over again and to fall back in love with writing, directing and cinematography. What has been your most memorable episode thus far in the series and why? My most memorable episode thus far is our Miami episode because it was a testament to the ambition of the FREEFALL team and our dedication to our craft and each other. Who was your Target Market for this show? Our target audience is black gay men who have yet to find a strong representation of themselves in today’s media climate.
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What’s the one thing you want the fan base to remember about this show?
beauty it possesses, and I really feel that Cam does as well. I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for love :)
I want people to remember that our show was artistic, realistic and one with strong characters that people will remember years from now.
What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script?
What is your ultimate goal for this series? Our ultimate goal for our series now is to get picked up by a network and/or to continue to successfully self-distribute our series to the world. Shout out the Principal Cast: Shamon Glaspy (Xavier), Jody Ray Vahn (Cameron), DeAndre Lemans (Nico), Jovanni Colon (Chad), Alonzo Fri’zon (Tony), Dante Simmons (Tyson), Toni Bernard (Ray) and J. Troy Richardson (Oliver).
JODY RAY VAHN (CAMERON) What is your favorite part about your character? I really enjoy Cam’s heart. His core is his heart and His spirit. Whatever he does, whether good or bad-- he is 100% passionate about it. Cam doesn’t “ride the fence” when it comes to his emotions and how he expresses himself. Love it or hate it, Cam could care less about what people think of him and he is committed to dealing with things in his on way and on his own time.
I’m always in my head when I get a new script! I love to internalize the characters feelings-human emotion. I’m a music fanatic, so I like to pick out songs that I think “Cam” would relate to in the moment. How long have you been acting? I’ve been acting since I was a kid! I did my first commercial when I was 6. I progressed into musical theater in high school and college and made the leap into film as a young adult. How did you get on to the series? I submitted an audition tape to the director and producers, and got a call back a few days later! They enjoyed my audition, and offered me the role of “Cam”. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? Haha!! I love my cast like family! No crushes.. What is your favorite thing to do when not on set? I love lazy days!! Just sitting around the house watching HGTV all day in my boxers!!
How do you relate to your character?
Where can the fans find you?
Hmmmm... I’ve been told that I’m a hopeless romantic. I believe in love and the sincere
Instagram: @IAmJody
ISAIAH GREEN (SALEEM)
ALONZO FRI’ZON (TONY)
TONI BERNARD (RAY)
What is your favorite part about your character?
What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about my character “Tony” on the show is bringing his bad-boy persona to life. My personality in real life is nothing like the my character I portray. Trying to convey the “bad guy” was definitely fun and challenging. Tony was introduced to us in Freefall’s pre-season episode 4 and reintroduced as a main character in the startup of the official Freefall season 1. He started out as a suspect questionable character who seem to be hiding something. As the season went on it was revealed that Tony was in fact extremely crooked, conniving, and bad! Another thing that made playing Tony enjoyable for me is the fact that we all know a Tony! That one guy who you would never get enough of, despite the fact you know he’s bad and no good for you and to you. The kinda of guy your friends hate, and constantly urge you to leave alone, and the one you wouldn’t dare take home to momma!.
What is your favorite part about your character?
I enjoy the mystery of my character . In a world full of labels , he has yet to be figures out . I also like being the bad guy at times. How did you get on to the series? I was contacted from the Director Lamont Pierre to audition after he saw some of my other work. Thinking 20 episodes from now. What kind of growth or change do you imagine for your character in your mind? I see him really being challenged in areas of his life to make peace what who he is and what he has done. What is one characteristic that your character has that is the Polar opposite of you as a person? I’m a nice, goofy, fun loving guy, Saleem, not so much. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? Saleem, lol. He is sexier than I am. I’m a goof ball! What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Never let life or society limit you or tell you who you are or what you can do . Dare to be different and choose roles that set a standard. Where can the Fans find you? Iman514 on Instagram and Twitter.
How do you relate to your character?
My favorite part about Ray is how big his heart is. He stands by the people that he loves no matter what. How do you relate to your character? I definitely relate to his mentality because I believe that if you want something you gotta go get it. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script? Well I’m a very structured actor. Usually when I get my script I read my scenes multiple times to get an idea of the who, what, when and where. That helps me get into my zone. The reason why I read my scenes only is because in real life you don’t know what’s other people are doing around you and plus I’m a fan of the show and I don’t like to spoil that for myself.
I think that outside of the bad-boy image, I probably can relate to Tony’s charm and ability to be extremely convincing, also his way with words. Although Tony has somewhat of a street/ hood mentality, he is extremely intelligent and carry’s himself with a large amount of confidence. Alonzo definitely has some of these traits. I’ve always had a way with words myself, and can be quite convincing if need be (lol). I also would like to think that I am received as an extremely confident person by those I encounter.
How did you get on to the series?
How long have you been acting?
See you trying to get me in trouble asking this question lol but if I must pick out of good fun I would say Dante’ Simmons (Tyson)
I have been acting for about 25 years now. I started off in the school productions as lead in elementary school, middle school, high school, and college. Where can the fans find you? Twitter - Aerrodynamic nstagram - Aerrodynamic
FREEFALL the SERIES WATCH SEASON 2 NOW!
I saw the preseason and I thought the content was cool and I love the cinematography so I sent my reel and head shot to the production team I originally auditioned for a small part but then couple days later Lamont Pierre called and asked if I was interested in the much bigger role of Ray and the rest is history. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush?
Who is the Set Flirt? Isaiah Green (Saleem) Whew, a day on set with these fellas is Too Hott for TV. I’m so glad this is print. Make sure you keep up with the fellas of Freefall and continue to stay tuned as Season 2 is in Full Effect… http://www.youtube.com/FreefallTVSeries http://www.facebook.com/FreefallTVSeries http://www.twitter.com/FreefallSeries http://www.BOAcollective.com
#RAMag January 2015 PAGE 53
THE WEBSERIES ISSUE
Rainbow Connection is a web series that took the organic route when it came to production. Nothing extravagant or over the top. This series provided content that you can relate to as it followed a group of friends through matters such as Friendship, Love and Life in a small town. This is the type of show you watch and laugh to yourself as you realize every character spotlighted reminds you of a friend within your circle.
RAINBOW CONNECTION By: DiamondKesawn
DEMOND JOHNSON (DEMAJEJ) What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about my Character (Demajej) would be that I get to express my true self without being judged! How do you relate to your character? In so many ways this is truly who I am. I don’t give up on things the same way my character doesn’t! (Demajej)
I can relate to my character in a lot of ways, because even though the script isn’t my life, the creator knows all of the actors and actresses personally and some of the things that they have been through or going through, so some things are similar to things that may have happened in real life. But the thing I can relate to most of all is moving away. Just like Tristan I moved away after joining the military and that is a reason why I couldn’t be in as many episodes as I was from the start. I also was in a relationship before I moved and me and my boyfriend decided to end things because I was moving. What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script?
I have to laugh and play with the script and keep things upbeat so that my nerves don’t get the best of me! (Demajej)
Me personally I just like to read over my scene a few times with the people that are in it just to get a feel of how things are going to go. After that, we pretty much ad-lib the scene so that our personalities show. We also have fun with it.
How long have you been acting?
How long have you been acting?
I was first introduced to acting with my character in The rainbow connection! (Demajej)
Before The Rainbow Connection, I never acted before. I’ve always been more a fan of the music from being a singer, but it was all a good experience.
What zone do you get into when it’s time to learn a new script?
How did you get on to the series? The writer Reginald Flemming and I are really close friends and I discussed with him an idea to write something to show our daily lives and to show that we don’t have to be ashamed of our lifestyles because we’re human also!! (Demajej) Thinking 20 episodes from now. What kind of growth or change do you imagine for your character in your mind? 20 episodes from now I see my character expanding my business and being a successful entrepreneur! (Demajej) What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Never give up and on your dreams and stay true to yourself!!! (Demajej)
CURTIS NEAL (TRISTAN) What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about my character is that throughout the seasons, he as been through ups and downs, highs and lows. Having a relationship with Jaden that didn’t end up working out to a little fling with Gavin while he was already in a relationship. How do you relate to your character?
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How did you get on to the series? Most of everybody that is involved with the series has known each other for a very long time. We all knew that Reggie wrote and had an idea about actually filming the things he wrote about and what better way to make that happen than using your friends. Like I mentioned earlier, our lives and personal experiences helped him with the script. Now, I’m DiamondKesawn so I must get the True Tea. Who is your Secret Cast Crush? Mmmmm secret cast crush lol… Everybody is my friend, but if I think that Malachi is a very attractive dark skinned guy. Who is the Set Clown of the cast? Kendrick Downs, I can’t remember his name on the series, but he is hilarious in real life Who is the Set Flirt? I think that I would be the set flirt to be honest lol There you have it! Rainbow Connection from the insiders themselves Catch up on Rainbow Connection on YouTube
Boston Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Adolescent Social Services
DROP-IN CENTER Games, Movies, Events
The mission of Boston GLASS (Gay & Lesbian Adolescent Social Services) is to improve the well-being of LGBTQQ youth of color and their allies by providing a continuum of services that addresses their immediate needs, equips them with tools to make healthy decisions and live fulfilling lives, and helps create communities in which they can thrive. GLASS serves young people ages 13-25 from Boston and the surrounding metro areas.
Youth Advisory Board (YAB): Volunteer Peer-Leadership Program
DROP-IN CENTER GLASS hosts a drop-in space with hours Monday through Friday where young people can hang out, meet up, have a snack, use the internet, engage with staff, and participate in programming. At Boston GLASS: Be here, be you!
Vogue... or nah?: Learn how to dance!
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES Services include mental health support and clinical case management, often focused on navigating the coming out process, gender identity transitions, developing healthy coping strategies, and further support for family, work, and school issues. Clinicians also identify and provide any referrals needed. MENTORSHIP PROGRAM The mission of the GLASS Mentorship Program is to empower LGBTQQidentified youth of color to reach their fullest potential through fostering longterm, goal-oriented mentoring relationships with adults in their communities. PEER LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Shades of Color is a youth empowerment program that conducts in-house peer services. Made of a diverse team of 14-19 year olds, they learn about many issues affecting LGBTQQ youth. They design and deliver peer-to-peer workshops on these topics then present them at GLASS. HIV, STI AND HEPATITIS TESTING AND PREVENTION SERVICES GLASS offers free and confidential prevention and testing services for HIV, Hepatitis C, and sexually transmitted Infections (STIs) such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis. No appointment necessary during drop-in hours. HOUSING STABILIZATION & CASE MANAGEMENT GLASS offers case management services to connect young people with housing programs, shelters, and benefit enrollment throughout the Metro area. Staff support youth in accessing primary medical care, preparing and applying for jobs, and are able to accompany youth to appointments as desired. COMMUNITY EDUCATION & OUTREACH This team engages youth, provides safer sex materials, and offers workshops on challenging stereotypes, raising awareness around bullying and violence, sexual health, and gender identity to allied providers and agencies across the greater Boston area.
ActOUT: Improv and theater games
#Waddup!: Community meeting for youth
SUPPORT GROUPS Find your community Our groups reflect the varied needs of our community and are scheduled on a monthly basis.
GET TESTED! Know your status Sexual health screening and counseling is available every day during drop-in hours - No appointment necessary! Questions? health@jri.org CONTACT INFORMATION
Boston GLASS 75 Amory Street Boston, MA 02119 Phone: 617-266-3349 Fax: 617-266-1439 www.jri.org/glass
outreach@jri.org
@Boston_GLASS
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M L I F INDIE IGHT L T O P S
E H T
TUNE IN NOW! http://www.thegaysmovie.com/index.html 56 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
S Y GA
What you Wearin’?!?! The Functionality of Fashion & How to Successfully Accessorize While Staying Warm this Winter By: Kimberly Bennett-Eady
I
t’s a brand New Year; Welcome to 2015 Beautiful People! With Jack Frost running around recklessly playing freeze tag in several states across the country; we’re most certainly aware of winter’s oppressive, bone chilling omnipresence. While most of us are utilizing our imaginations to envision laying on a warm sunny beach in the Caribbean as a coping mechanism; the reality for a majority of the nation is - its brick outside! Much of the country is plagued with bitter low-teen and single digit temperatures. Moreover, some states have been besieged with snow and ice. One thing is for sure, you can still focus on the “Functionality of Fashion” while looking fierce! Being the woman that I am, it’s only right that I come through to help you save the day; there is absolutely, positively no excuse for looking both
“rosy & boxy” “at the same damn time!” Yaaaasssss, I said it, it’s completely unacceptable! Let’s keep it all the way honest; no one wants to look as if they’re the offspring of SpongeBob Squarepants & his “main damie” (nod toward Pootie Tang fans/colloquialism for best friend) Patrick. You can look snatched and still slay! Many puffer & down coats may have a drawstring or belt at the waist to showcase the narrowness of your midsection. Another design trick that’s meant to showcase the small waist, is the chevron stitching; which resembles a ‘V’ shape going downward. This deliberate styling/design illusion emphasizes a smaller waist and draws the eye directly to the length of the legs, making you appear longer and leaner. The key to staying warm this winter is to invest in quality accessories that are functional, yet fashionable.
ETERNITY/INFINITY SCARF Up first on the menu, the eternity/ infinity scarf! It’s a practical pairing, yet uber stylish addition, which usually finishes the look to almost any casual outfit! You can choose to go in the direction of soft chunky knit, or smooth cashmere; for the ultra-fashion forward person, you can opt to indulge in faux fur. A practical accompaniment to your eternity/ infinity scarf, would be a warm
pair of gloves; ideally tech tip gloves. So many of us can still operate our smart/touch devices in these chilling temps all while staying warm. Otherwise, you can invest in faux fur lined gloves, which has a warm yet luxurious feel to them. We still have to endure roughly 2 ½ more months of ‘Winter ’s Wrath’ – bundle up & stay Fashionably Fierce!
Men’s Geo Print Eternity Scarf is available at Urban Outfitters for $34.00
LADIES’ VINCE CAMUTO COLORBLOCK
LADIES’ VINCE CAMUTO COLORBLOCK
Vince Camuto Colorblock Infinity Scarf $ Ladies’ 29.99
Men’s The North Face Apex Etip Glove $45.00
LADIES’ VINCE CAMUTO COLORBLOCK
Ladies’ Lauren by Ralph Lauren Moto Zip Hybrid Touch Glove $58.00
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THE WEBSERIES ISSUE “Friend of a Friend” is an upcoming short film series about homosexual and heterosexual black relationships in New York, produced by DRC Production. The idea came up after having a group convo about facing the same situations in both homo and hetero dating apps. The conversation revolved around how long a typical relationship would last and what the ‘usual episodes’ would be. After the chat we felt the need to create a PSA, hoping to recreate the ‘episodes’ and promote safe sex
FRIEND OF A FRIEND By: DiamondKesawn
What is your favorite character in the series and why? My favorite character is Jacob (supporting cast) because, how quickly he can go from 0 to 100. What drew you to creating this series? I was inspired by Sister Souljah’s book ‘The Coldest Winter Ever’. What was your goal when choosing to green light the production of this series? To create characters and have people love them as much as I do. What has been your most memorable episode thus far in the series and why? An episode entitled “#Perception”, because I wrote it after a pretty bad breakup.
I like that he always has an answer for David and that he is very forthright. -Charles A. Roberts In Friend of a Friend, I played Travis; a smooth talking, manipulative character who fully embraces the down low culture. My favorite thing about this character is that there is an air of mystery which surrounds him which is enhanced by the fact that his face is hidden within the series. Travis’ quick wits and bad boy persona truly captivates my imagination and the attention of the audience. He exudes a confidence that many people find attractive and irresistible. -Shane Brown What is your favorite thing to do when not on set? I love to read. -Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. Favorite thing to do is eat lol. -Kortney Dixon Dancing and watching cartoons. -Marlon Blackwood Spend time with family and friends. -Charles A. Roberts What is your favorite color?
Pillow biters and straight men who go to bed with men.
My favorite color is black -Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. Favorite color is gold -Kortney Dixon Blue. -Marlon Blackwood Blue. -Charles A. Roberts
What’s the one thing you want the fan base to remember about this show?
Who is the Set Clown of the cast?
Who was your Target Market for this show?
Life is life, you got one life to live so just live it. What is your ultimate goal for this series? To educate, provoke, and be me as much as possible. I just want to send a major thank you to my entire cast and production crew, the show wouldn’t have seen the light of day without my team. David - Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. La’Shonda - Kortney Dixon Mike - Marlon Blackwood Sean - Charles A. Roberts Travis - Shane Brown What is your favorite part about your character? My favorite part about playing David is how real his story line and how close to heart it is. He deals with everyday struggles that we as gay men go through everyday but don’t speak about. -Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. My favorite part about my character is that she’s confident smart very sassy but still a lady. -Kortney Dixon 58 PAGE #RAMag January 2015
I believe it would be between Daniel and my self we are always going at each other. -Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. Set clown we all are hilarious when in one space. -Kortney Dixon The clown on set would have to be Kendy. -Charles A. Roberts What are your Words of Wisdom for the upcoming actors and actresses who will see this interview and be inspired? Never give up there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. -Gonzalo Valenzuela Jr. Be YOU !! Take on new things conquer the world and have fun and be fabulous doing it. Be rich bitch. Lol. _ Kortney Dixon As my grandma would say “if you want a pay-cheque, you have to start working”. So I would say never give up because I was thought that being in the entertainment world you are always on stage and you never know who is in the audience. -Marlon Blackwood The first short film was released on Saturday, Jan. 17th. Catch it on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YZiBo_t0Xs
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LGBT MUSIC, FASHION, & ENTERTAINMENT
LOG ON AND SUBSCRIBE TODAY WWW.RAYBNOWAFFAIRMAGAZINE.COM
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MY TWO DADS A Contemporary Model of Parenting By: Kaiia King My father is and has always been such an anchor in my life, engraving a spirit of compassion, love and understanding; while my mother, a strong, opinionated, alpha female, crafted me into this pillar of strength and resilience. Looking back I realize that the “gender roles” were oftentimes reversed, as my mother was much more dominant and my father lacked any confrontational trait (Thank God!). It further makes me reflect from my childhood eyes and I realize the only thing that really made them different, essentially were there personalities, and unbeknownst to me, their anatomical differences – For me they were simply my parents.
Of course there are concerns with same sex couples raising children, it is a new model and therefore not completely understood by the masses. The compassion necessary for society to deal with same sex couples, specifically gay couples, raising children comes with an understanding of the lifestyle and overall effects of the dynamic.
The formula for perfect parenting remains as unclear today as it was 50 years ago; with many socio- economic, religious, cultural, and moral- differences separating us, there is no clear understanding of what the perfect parenting arrangement looks like. The journey of parenting is hard enough without having “societal norms” and the criticism of unsolicited opinions from saints, sinners and bible slingers, alike.
Same sex households have jumped significantly over the past decade. Gay men alone have rocketed from in five couples from one in twenty almost twenty years ago. Gay men are also 4% of couples who are adopting and offering homes to children who need love. With this major increase and the inclusion of the gay parent model in mainstream media, my favorite is sitcom, Modern Family, which boasts an amazing and relatable gay couple and their adorable adopted daughter.
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There are so many lingering stereotypes surrounding the sexual orientation of gay men that that pour into overshadow their ability to just be, to just be great –professionals, thinkers, innovators, parents, and most important, simple human beings.
If the question is, can two gay men raise amazing human beings then the answer is: #Yes. Studies have proven (If you’re the type that requires research and such) that children who are products of same sex households/ upbringings are more likely to be more empathetic, better communicators, and more self-aware and confident. Andrew J. Cherlin, a prominent sociologist of family issues at Johns Hopkins University, states “There is overwhelming evidence so far that there is not much difference between children raised by homosexual or heterosexual parents.� If the question is, will two gay men raise a gay woman then the answer is: #Yes. Because, according to the ACLU, the odds of a child becoming homosexual are about the same as the odds of a child becoming heterosexual - regardless of the sexual orientation of the parents. Essentially, parenting is a job that is completely unrelated to sexual orientation. Parenting is the fundamental task of providing resources and tools, coupled with a genuine love and dedication, from a parent necessary to raise a child through adolescence to successful transition into adulthood.
While we cannot compute a perfect equation of parenting, it is clear that the fundamental components of successful parenting include lots of love, dedication, and consistency. These are qualities that any man or woman with good intentions and true love can provide. As we watch the dynamics and interpretations of parenthood take new shapes and meaning in our society, it is refreshing to see great parents step up and provide the blueprint for healthy child rearing. The many questions of love and parenting cannot be answered in a single argument, conversation, or debate. It all comes down to love. What matters most for our children is the love and support from parents who are consistent, positive and capable of raising responsible and productive people. This article was inspired by gayswithkids.com This site serves as a resource and a platform of recognition and awareness for the amazing human beings, who happen to be gay and raising children in this country.
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EDITORS TOP SIX! DiamondKesawn #RAmag
Quarter 1, 2015
TV SHOWS SCANDAL
HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER
INSTANT MOM
CASTLE
UNFORGETTABLE
HOT IN CLEVELAND
SINGLES BANG BANG
BAYOU BOOGIE
DEAR WHITE PEOPLE
ADDICTED
NO FLEX ZONE
TWERKIN 4 BIRKIN
TURN UP
AT YOUR FEET
MOVIES
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SELMA
THE OTHER WOMAN
ANNIE
MALEFICENT
Ratchetness
Web Series
Tweets
Love & HipHop: Hollywood
Thot Pop
Thot Walk
When your Eyebrows are on “Fleek”
The “Yeet” Movement
Young Thug in an Interview
Trade it All
Monogamy
Freefall
Judys
Remix: The Web Series
L. A. Confidential
MiamiFamous.Com @ MiamiFamous_com 19h19 hours ago @DiamondKesawn Presents @QtheQuestion Interview (VIDEO
VH1 @VH1 #HowardUniversity LISTEN UP @JordanCalloway1, @ LeToyaLuckett + @AlexShipppp got something to say... #Drumline
Best of Sagittarius@ BestSagittarius #Sagittarius is freedom loving and doesn’t like to be confined in a relationship. Let them have space and they will be there!
KING CARTER @ KINGCARTERNC · @DiamondKesawn #PROTECTANDSERVE VIDEO, BY #KINGCARTER SHOT ON LOCATION IN FERGUSON
DJ Enuff Hot97 Verified account@djenuff Lil Kim Flaunts Post-Baby Body At Surprise Show! [Photos]
Kimberly B.E. @Ms_Modern_CIC · Sep 25 Ck out my “Fall Into Fashion” article on http:// raynbowaffairmagazine.com/ diamondkesawn-twitterspotlight-fall-into-fashion-byms_modern_cic/ … #KeepUp #Fashion #Fall #Style #RAmag
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