contents volume 2 issue 6
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10 opinion
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advice recap
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inspire
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WORLDS UNITE STAFF Business Analyst and Event LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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usic can be enlightening. Music can be energizing. Music can be annoying, and music can be confusing as every now and then you get a Ke$ha who comes into the sceen and makes you wonder if slicing your ears off would be less painful. Ultimately though, music makes the world go round. It’s arguably the one language that is universal, which is why the color of this issue is black/white. Black and white are the results of all colors unified (black when it comes to artificial colors, white when it comes to light). I want to take this time to thank you for picking up another edition of Determined Nation Magazine where we “Aspire to Inspire.” This is the second annual “Hustle and Flow” edition of Determined Nation Magazine highlighting aspiring musicians and their journies as they work to become masters at their craft. Their craft, whether it be rapping, singing, producing, DJing, or playing an instrument, should not be taken lightly. To master the craft, it takes hard work, persistence, and creativity. To many of these artist, music is their life. So as we showcase these individuals, keep that in mind as it’s your support and feedback that helps them flourish into great artist. Recognize that all of our successes are connected to each other so when you uplift someone working hard, you’re also elevated. So make sure you eleveate yourself and support community, your city, and your state by supporting aspiring artist. Make It Happen, Garrett Hayes Editor-In-Chief
Planning: Perez AnsahMensah, Justin JonesFrazier, Niyankor Ajuaj
Marketing and Advertising: Keenan Bender, Kati Taylor
Writers: Danielle McConnell,
Susanne “Zuzu” Wheeler, L.A. Harden, Moonier Said, Raquel Robertson, Valerie Rammes, Niyankor Ajuaj
Editing: Zuzu Wheeler Photography: Perez AnsahMensah, Danielle McConnell, Jasmine Whitaker, Marray Napue, Garrett Hayes
Wanna help with writing, graphics, photos or events? Have art, poetry, or music you want featured? Feel free to e-mail us. Submissions/Contact Us: determinednation2311@gmail.com
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determinednationmagazine.com “Knowledge and Inspiration are everywhere, keep your eyes open for them.”
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community
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
TOUR DE FACTO: A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT NEW BELGIUM’S BIGGEST EVENT
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Keenan Bender
little bit over a decade ago, New Belgium Brewery began from basement brew competitions. Founded by social worker: Kim Jordan and electrical engineer: Jeff Lebesch, they sought to create something much more than just delicious beer and their philosophy of giving back to the community and self-sustainability was reflected in their business plan. Two percent of all of New Belgium’s revenue is donated to philanthropies supporting the planet, community agriculture, education and watershed health. It turns out that there is a lot more behind the beer and amazing events. The Tour De Fat and Car for Bike Swap are some of their most inspirational philanthropies. New Belgium donates all of the beer sales for the event and doesn’t profit from the event. Tour De Fat has raised over $2 million and last year raised $80,000 just in Fort Collins. The event not only raises money but empowers the people in the community by giving them the power to make a positive influence and inspires them to do more. The Car for Bike Swap was created to spread the philosophy of leaving a smaller footprint on the environment and
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inspiring others to make a difference while helping those in need. Since 2009, 57 people have volunteered to donate their car to a family in need and ride a bike for a year. New Belgium donates a bike to them as well as donating the cost of their car to a non-profit organization. The swap takes place at Tour De Fat as the generous person rides a brand new New Belgium Cruiser through the crowd of cheering people. Although Tour De Fat may seem like just a huge party on bikes with crazy costumes, there is an inspirational community uplift that takes place there that is rivaled by none; so next time you wake up to kegs and eggs, throw on your pink tutu and ride your bike to the Tour, remember what you’re representing and “Aspire to Inspire.”
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Ludicrous Lyrics & Sensless Songs
really, really want So tell me what you want, what you really, really want I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) WHAT THE I wanna really, really, really wanna zigazig ah HELL IS A ZIGA ZIG AH? IS THAT SOME KIND OF DR. SUESS CHARACTER
Imma go hard, hard to the core Hard like mother f*c*in liquid swordz Harder than worldwide stadium tours I am the future, delorian doors Imma kill the game, leave the rest in pieces Now everybody want my recipes Tell a jealous chicken I don't know what the beef is I'm just making money for my grand kids' nieces Imma work hard, that's my thesis This beat is a sh*t, feces
Hard like morning wood in the morning Woke up thinking about microphonin E.T. On the mic, phone the homeland I'm out like NASA, I’m way over here I dun passed you I get stacks of WILL. UR. NOT. cash, you get MAKING ANY SENSE, cashews, AND YOU ALSO COMPARED YOURSELF I go hard, statues TO AN ERECTION MULTIPLE TIMES
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
SPICE GIRLS - “TELL ME WHAT YOU WANT” I'll tell you what I want, what I
WILL.I.AM- “HARD”
Imma be the owner, like Jerry Jones Imma go hard, like a motherf*c*in boner Imma make the beat put the people in a coma
opinion
SISQO- “THONG SONG”
Ya like to dance at all the hip hop spots/And ya cruise to the crews like connect da dots/ Not just urban she likes the pop/ THONGS Cause ARE GREAT, THE she was livin la SONG IS MORE vida loca LIKE WEDGED GRANNY PANTIES I know way too many people here right now that I didn't know AM I THE last year/ ONLY ONE who the f*c* are CONFUSED BY THIS? y'all?
Now when I holla A Bay Bay, Im finna get my groove WAIT! SO THE on FIRST THING YOU Its so hot up in da club THOUGHT TO TAKE That I ain’t got no shoes OFF WHEN YOU GOT“ on HOT WAS YOUR SHOES?
HURRICANE CHRIS“A BAY BAY”
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DRAKE- “OVER”
Baby”Justin Bieber NEED I SAY MORE!
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community
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
FORT COLLINS: A COMMUNITY OF MUSIC COLLABORATION
Kaiti Taylor Local musicians are all very supportive of each other, “We compete but try to lift everyone up at the same time, most of us have played in many different bands in Fort Collins which opens up even more room for us to collaborate and support each other,” says local musician Nick Dalessandro. Nick is the saxophone player in the local band Bill Smith, which plays a very unique blend of jazz, industrial and funk/groove. Most people assume they are a jam band, but they are much ort Collins has a very unique music more specific than that. Nick and guitarcommunity that embraces collabora- ist, Dank Oebnick, both have very strong tion amongst its musician members. backgrounds and training in jazz which
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notable concerts in fort collins denver
THE AGGIE
THE GOTHIC
Israel Vibration-Sat 2nd 8pm $25 L.B.R.O- Sat 9th 9pm $10 Billy Bragg-Sat 23rd 8pm $30.75
Tech Nine-Thurs 21st 8pm $25 EOTO-Fri 15th 8 pm $20 Dirty Heads/Shiny Toy Guns-Fri 8th 7pm $25 Dubskin-Sat 9th 8pm Free
HODI’S
Tech Nine
Hodi’s House of Rock Party-Fri 8th 8pm $5 Yo Mamma’s Big Fat Booty BandThurs 14th 8pm $8 Little People-Fri YMBFBB 29th 8pm $8
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THE FILLMORE
Israel Vibration
Tech Nine-Fri 22nd 7pm $46.50 Imagine Dragons-Sat 23rd Price TBA 106.7 KBPI Presents In This Moment & All That Remains-Tue 26th 6pm Price TBA
Imagine Dragons www.determinednationmagazine.com
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sets them apart from many other bands in Fort Collins. What also sets them apart from other bands, according to Dalessandro, is their musicianship across the band. They are all very experienced and have great collaboration with song writing. He says its bout the entire production, it is all very polished with full light shows specified for each show. There are five members in their band: Dan Barto (keys), Ian Smith (bass), Sean Macaulay (drums) and Ben “Pilgrim� (lights). Every member is extremely dedicated and driven towards spreading great music around Colorado and collaborating with
other musicians. Some other bands they work with or listen to are Papgoya, Euforchestra, Futaba, Trichome, and many more. At the end of March Bill Smith is playing in Steamboat, and if that is too far for you to travel they have many shows coming up in April including the Fort Collins Music Experiment. Keep an eye out for this up and coming band and jump into our inspiring local music community. You can listen to some of their songs on their band page BillSmithLives.com
n march in colorado greeley boulder FOX THEATER
Murs and Fashawn-Fri 8th Kill Paris-Thurs 14th French MontanaWed 20th Daedelus & Two Fresh-Sat 23rd French Montana
AF RAYS
Trichome-Fri 1st Nathaniel Rateliff-Sat 2nd Stone Cricket-Sat 30th
Trichome
BOULDER THEATER Dillon Francis-Thurs 7th $30 EOTO-Sat 16th 8:30 pm $30 Shakedown Street-Fri 29th 8:30 $15
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EOTO
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advice
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
WAYS TO RECONNECT WITH YOUR SPOUSE OR PARTNER Courtesy of Dr. Mark Benn
When I ask my patients and students to share what they believe are the most important aspects of a good relationship they typically list: communication, attraction, sense of humor, honesty, trust, commitment, companionship and other positive qualities. Which are all correct. However, while these are all important qualities to have – the thing that leads us to disconnect are the areas in which we struggle. Therefore, in order to reconnect we have to take the risk to deal with where we have tension – or where we might be in conflict…the places where we have lost touch. So, while it may be counterintuitive to do this - our job in “reconnecting” is exploring where we can do better and where we may have disconnected. It’s my belief that people often struggle with the concept that the most important part of any relationship is our ability (or inability) to deal with conflict – since CONFLICT is the very thing that will lead to disconnecting and possibly the end of our relationship. Examine connecting somewhere OTHER than the bedroom. There’s a common expression that suggests that women want to be close to have sex and men want to have sex to be close. Well, men, I have bad news for you – take some time to connect emotionally first – and leave the physical part for later. Trust me, it will come (pun intended).
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The formula for reconnecting is simple: connect on an emotional level by having compassion, empathy and taking time to listen – then connect cognitively – and then physically. If you try to use physical first – as so many couples do (often at t h e insistence of the men) – they are doomed to fall back into disconnection. How to reconnect: Take time. Listen. Share. Compromise. Negotiate. Don’t assume.
While it may sound cliché – 1 + 1 really does = 3. You, me and us. Rarely does 1 + 1 = 1. And when it does, it’s rarely a good thing. Reconnect by exploring where you disconnected. Deal with your conflict. Work through it by listening and considering your partner’s point of view. Find the error in that which you believe and the truth in that which you oppose. Go from there; reconnect by going deeper with each other. Once you find out why and how you disconnected you can reconnect – and that’s the best. More information on Dr. Mark Benn and his practice can be found at www.markbenn.com. If you or anyone you know is in an unhealthy relationship and needs resources, counseling services is the place to go in the North Wing of Alyesworth Hall, walk-ins are always welcome, or you can setup an appointment by calling (970)491-6053. Take care of yourself!
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inspire
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
Determined Woman of the Month
MARISSA RUDD Interview by Marray Napue
“I WILL NOT BE DEFEATED!”
Where are you from? I grew up everywhere. but my main place was Europe.
When did you did music enter your life? I started singing at the age of nine in the third grade in the Colorado Springs Children’s Coral. I started privite lessons in forth grade. We did tours everywhere from Utah to Japan. My family was really heavy in R&B singing, but I went the classical rout.
Why did you decide to continue playing music? I moved a lot. Im a millitary brat. The reason I stuck with music is because it never
changed. It’s a universal langauge. I’ve sang with people from sixteen different countries. Some of those countries were, Russia, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Brazil, France, United Kingdom, and Africa. The Kenyan’s, were my favorite. Music is how I am able to tell a story and change a person’s life. Through it all, it has been a journey. Learning and growing in music.
What was one of your biggest struggles? I was born with cancer, which put a lot of strain on my family. They didn’t know if I was going to live or die, but they stayed by my side through it all, and never told me to give up on my dream. When I went through radiation or chemotherapy, it was a struggle. I was that awkward kid who didn’t have hair in school. I didn’t have any friends because of my cancer. I was very scary looking and kids were evil back in the day. I was given responsibility before I wanted it. Marissa is currently a freshman at Colorado state university, double majoring in Music performace and Microbiology.
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inspire
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Determined Man of the Month SOLOMON VAUGHN Interview by Valerie Rammes
What is one word that best “Without patience, the opportunities can and describes you/how would more likely will pass right you describe yourself? Introspective. I’d describe myself as an by without you even soul accompanied by a young spirit. noticing it.” –Solomon old I’m very sincere and like to think deep Vaughn into a lot of things, but I’m also extreme-
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down to earth, laid back, musical revolutionary artist, Solomon Vaughn aka Boonie Mayfield a.k.a Boon Doc, is one of Denver’s talented producers and recording artists. Solomon has a unique sound, impressing his audience and customers with his musical mind and constructiveness. Through years of dedication and staying focused he describes that where he works is determined by the inspiration being composed from his heart. WHERE he works could be anywhere and all the time; his creativeness is constantly at work. “It’s music, so it happens in the shower, on the phone, at the movie theatre, you name it.”
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ly goofy and fun-loving. I’ll always be a “child” at heart.
What are some experiences that you have had in the past that led to what you do today? I paid to have my first album (unreleased) recorded and produced when I was fresh out of high school, later partnered up with another local artist as a rap duo under an independent label and released mix tapes and performed in and out of state. My former partner and I learned how to produce music for ourselves which eventually led to us selling beats online. After we disbanded, I continued selling beats online under a new name (Boonie Mayfield) and started building a following on
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YouTube by making videos of my beat making process. I later competed in a few producer battles, and here I am now! When I got initiated into this local battleemcee group called The BATTLECATS, I had my first studio experience. It was in 2000-2001, my friends and I in high school were the biggest fans of The BATTLECATS, because they actually were dope emcees, had their own original beats AND professional recordings. They were like celebs to us. When my boy Com (one of the founding members) took me under his wing, he offered to take me to the studio with him. That is where I met producer, Base Jase, at his studio. For the 1st time in my life, I got to see how a Hip-Hop beat was created. I was hooked from that point.
How would you describe your music? I think my sound evolves every couple years, whether I “want” it to or not, so it’s hard to say. As far as what can be seen/ heard from my first YouTube vids up to now, I had a more 90s sample-based boom-bap style, which then went into a more late 90s/early 2000s neo-soul and hip-hop sound, eventually I stopped sampling, learned more about music theory, instruments, arranging etc, and it has brought me to where my sound is now, which will be heard on my album next year.
that you have to have enough determination to keep working towards it and to have enough patience to wait for the opportunities to come. Without patience, the opportunities can and more than likely will pass right by without you even noticing it. People miss opportunities while wallowing in their self pity. Be patient and be aware!
What’s been your biggest struggle? My biggest struggle was inner power struggle between the rapper/vocalist in me, the producer in me and the businessman in me. I tend to learn and progress in these areas separately and sporadically at random times. Basically, finding the balance with them all was a huge struggle. But I overcame a lot of that and it’s getting better each day.
From being a performing rapper, creating mix tapes, to teaching himself how to produce music and sell beats, Solomon’s motivation, dedication, and love towards the music world makes him an extraordinary artist. Be sure to follow him, and look out for his upcoming album. You can find him by looking up Boonie Mayfield on YouTube, Twitter, Soundcloud, and booniemayfield.com. He has a reality show series coming titled, “Boon Documented.”
What are your future career goals? Telling too many people about your big plans and goals can hinder you by tricking your mind into thinking you’ve already somewhat accomplished those goals just by telling people about it. It causes procrastination for me, to say the least. So I will say this, my future goals are simply to continue helping and inspiring others, growing more musically, releasing great independent music, writing a book or two, expanding into more entertainment business ventures and more.
What’s the one piece of advice that you would give someone pursuing their career dream? Run! I’m kidding. I would tell him/her
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retrospect
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
DAT NEW KREW: FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE
Zuzu Wheeler
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ince their victory at DN’s first annual Clash of the Titans in 2012, life has been surprisingly low-key for the members of Dat New Krew. They’ve played some gigs, yes, but other than that, they have focused on being a more organized group that wants to change the face of not only the Fort Collins hip-hop
scene, but the national radio, as well. Members Aaron “Papa C.G.” Lucero, Erik “DJ BirdFlew” Hansen, Mikie “Radio” Sena, Sesugh Solomon, and Levi “Hazy” Rivera, are an unlikely group of guys who have known each other since middle school and formed DNK in summer of 2009. They are both talented and intelligent, a rare combination of traits seen in hip-hop artists today, and regularly draw inspiration from subjects like philosophy, unity and everyday struggles. Through this, they have garnered a local following with upbeat live shows and a lot of original material. Though they lost a member since the Clash, they are staying positive and
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retrospect
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moving forward. “We’re inspired by change,” says Solomon. “The sense of community here has dwindled, and we want to monopolize [that] through our music.” Focus is key, and DNK has spent their time paying more attention to their art. “We had a year to change,” says Sena. “We kind of needed to not do a lot, which showed us our potential.” Adds Rivera, “We had time to make it flawless.” DNK has a new EP being released in the near future (all recorded in the comfort of Sena’s home), and they recently began a record label, CosmicLum. They not only record DNK’s material through CosmicLum, but also
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each members’ solo projects. They hope to expand their label and help other artists reach their potential. DNK is a breath of fresh air in a sea of bling and expensive wheels. “We have so much creativity and passion,” says Solomon. On top of that, they have the technological knowledge and dedicated teamwork required to make it to the top. They are excited for what they have to bring to their audience in the future, and you should be, too. Make sure to “like” Dat New Krew on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Dat.New.Krew. If you’re an artist in the Fort Collins area and want your work to be heard, check out their record label, CosmicLum, at www.cosmiclum.wix.com/datnewkrew and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ CosmiclumRecords.
recap
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O
n
Januar y 26th of this year Determined Nation, in collaboration with United Men of Color, hosted its second annual “Clash of the Titans” competitive showcase. Unlike last year however, where the competition was a battle of the bands style rap competition, this year’s competition was strictly freestyle as ten brave individuals stepped up to compete against one another for the title of the best freestyle battler in Colorado. There were four rounds that the battlers had to make it through in order to be called champion. The road to the finals for all the emcees arguably wasn’t easy, as the final two contestants ended up being the competitors who had to face one extra person in a wild card round. After four rounds it was east versus west, as only Poetik Genius and Taylor Raw made it to the finals where they battled each other in a fierce match that left judges perplexed on who to rule champion. While the Mississippi native Poetik Genius seemed to carry himself well
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hitting Taylor Raw with punch lines of metaphorical prowess, the California native Raw stood his ground, stay on his toes, and seemed to be unfazed. Both battlers, energized and animated, got into each other’s personal space while they spit their lyrics (both literally and figuratively). After the standard two rounds seemed to not be enough for the crowd or the judges to make a decision, a tie breaking third round became the deciding factor. In the end Taylor Raw ended up leaving with the trophy and $500 dollars in hand. Poetik Genius, otherwise known as PG, didn’t leave empty handed though, as he walked away with the second place title and $100 (double the entry fee). Arguably, both emcees left stronger than they entered and benefited exponentially from the experience as they not only gained respect for each other, but plan on collaborating on musical endeavors in the future. If you have suggestions on how we should make the Clash of the Titans better next year let us know on our facebook www. facebook.com/determinednationmagazine
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ast year Determined N a t i o n Magazine had the distinct pleasure of interviewing some of the most dedicated and determined aspiring musicians, DJs and rappers in Fort Collins and around Colorado. Ultimately the group created the first edition of our annual “Hustle and Flow” music issue. The individuals interviewed were choosen because of their persistance, hard work, and desire to be successful. And just to prove that DN didn’t just choose people at random, here are a few of the interviewees providing updates on their successes since being in the magazine last March.
retrospect
PC
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This past year was my most successful and eye opening year in life. I was able to keep my dreams alive reaching new heights with my music opening for Bobby Valentino, flying to Houston multiple times to open for and meet Scar face, Bun B, Paul Wall, Z-Ro, Short Dogg, Slim Thug, Lil Keke, and more performing at the House of Blues. I got to work with Kia Shine and currently am getting my songs played in clubs/radio stations in over 7 states and in Canada all while maintaining over a 3.3 GPA. I got offers from 2 big labels and am currently working on even bigger projects for Strange music and won an all expense paid trip to Lake Havasu to perform.
HUSTLE AnD FLOW DJ DJ NUÑEZ xclu$ive FIRST EDITION FOLLOW UP
Well, like many/all artists, I am constantly working on my craft, looking for next big move. Since the issue, I've been busy at work with music, and since then, I've made a couple big strides in my career as a DJ. I was able to DJ overseas in the summer of 2012 in Cebu, Philippines, and shortly after, I got hired on as an official mixer for Denver's KS 107.5. With that, if I’m not in the club rocking a crowd or taking over the airwaves, I’m in the studio working on new mixes and remixes, always pushing forward and looking for the next opportunity.
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Good things don’t always come to those who wait, so the grind never ceases. Since the last year, I’ve made moves to pursue my dream of doing music professionally (deejaying, producing, songwriting and as an artist). I‘ve linked up with DJ Nuñez, joining his movement with Nufusion Productions, a production company well on its way to becoming the next big thing. I’ve also been hard at work in the lab, producing beat after beat, teaming up with other producers such as HAM Productions, and writing a lot of new material, for myself as well as for other artists. I’m looking to have my new mixtape released early-to-mid summer time. I am also working on a personal clothing line. Major things are coming. Big dreams come from small beginnings!
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Whether rapping, singing, producing, playing an instrument, or working a party through turnables, every up-in-coming artist is constantly
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Danielle McConnell Valerie Rammes Niyankor Ajuaj
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eing a rapper takes more than the simplistic lyrics that currently exist in the mainstream realm of hip-hop. It takes more talent, more determination, and more individuality. Although it could easily be said that this mentality has fallen on deaf ears, there are still a few artists out there that aim to represent those exact adjectives previously expressed. Those artists rarely take form in the mainstream culture of music, but rather in the heart of where hip-hop began. It’s in the battles, the underground music world, the mixtapes. For 2 EZ, Smoov Spastik, Rolos, A. Will, Sherm, AKM, and Lady Wu Tang the world of hip-hop is something that needs to be showcased in its true light and is deserving of recognition for its full potential. Their plan is to reveal it.
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. Will has been rapping since sophomore year, surrounding himself with friends that had interests similar to his and free styling with them to beats in the car, keeping themselves motivated and increasing the growth of their talent. His inspiration stems from his mom. His biggest support and the person who has always been behind him. She stands as his only relevant critic. Once he has his moment of clarity with his mother he hits the stage and relieves all the stresses of the world. He can get on stage and be himself. The crowd thrives off his lyrics and he tells them his struggles. Not the stories that he sees on television or the trends of society. The stage stands as his books and each entry
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represents another moment for him to relate to the world we all live in. His hopes with the future are to gain more of a presence in this industry and as a solo artist.
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KM started his rap journey as a Dj. He has a passion for creating beats but found himself preferring the spotlight in front of the Dj booth rather than behind it. The beats caught his interest and attaching lines launched his previously unknown talent. The major factor that keeps him motivated is himself. Not looking for the approval or the satisfaction of anyone else, and that of course is the best strength an individual in this field can have. This stage and this ability is his freedom. He is in control of everything around him when he is in that mode. He determines the direction and likes to let loose. His freedom a n d control leads h i m also
down a path that makes his music stand out. Most music to him just seems to have a hip-hop beat but he gives his sounds a harder bass. With the future, his only hope is to continue to advance his instrumental creativity to set himself further apart.
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olos is a man of few words until he gets in the emcee arena. His beginning, although not to long ago has taken him far in the direction of creative expression. Thanks due to his circle of friends and their rap interest, he grows everyday and continues to gain more passion for this art form. To Rolos there are infinite possibilities when it comes to this talent. There is no top, no end, and always something new to learn. He labels his style as both simple and clever. It comes easy to him and his clever lines give his raps personality that can easily lack in other rappers. That, mixed with his old school soil gives him a frame all his own. He is unique and raps about the things that matter in life. “So often we can get caught up in the fast-paced, unnecessary ways of the world when our time could be spent so much better, so much differently,� he states. That is where this art gets lost. His hope is to continue to move forward with the skills he possesses. Rolos is in the process of creating a body of work and within a year hopes to be able to present that body of work to the public.
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EZ began as a poet like most great rappers. He was creating a story through his writing at the age of 15 and as time progressed that story was putty music, and he has moved up from there. He surrounds himself with the music he and his crew created. Beyond that there isn’t much else worth listening to. He classifies their work as “compelling.� Using music to inspire and motivate people to realize that anything is possible is
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the only real destination he wishes to reach. Within himself and the crew there is a strong sense of awareness. They think differently and shed light on topics that need to be discussed, but are often watered down by present day artistry. The goal for him is to develop a strong foundation to really move forward successfully, and we all know that without a strong foundation anything is determined to crumble.
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t the age of nine relaxing in the car with his aunt listening to rap allday was the first memory Smoov thought of when asked where it all began. Listening to the lyrics of Method Man he remembers, “Everytime he got on a track it was different from anything you heard anyone else do. Method Man was his like his teacher, and following in his footsteps Smoov hopes to teach the world something. To him adding his talent to the world and sharing his thought is his small effort towards teaching society. He labeled himself the master of ceremony. To him this is more than just being hype, it’s about understanding the reason you are hype. He isn’t just getting on stage and creating entertainment, but instead sharing himself for that small moment on stage to his audience. He feels his creativity separates him from the rest of those in this arena and foresees himself in various aspects of the music industry. There are so many possibilities, “ You can do a lot of good for a lot of people...a dollar goes a long way if you make one.”
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he year 2000 was Sherm’s beginning with his rap career. He started with just freestyling and with some extra free time he started focusing more on his writing. Fort Collins became his new start in 2010 and music has been his path since then. His inspiration stems from family, more specifically his grandfather who told him, “If you are going to do something do it hard, and always look presentable.” It’s the message he searches for with the inspiration he chooses. It has to be powerful. Needless to say, when asked
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to give me one word to describe this art and what he does, he said “Impossible.” Instead he says, “ It’s like I am supposed to be here.” It was beyond one word simplicity, and if I could classify it for him, I would call it his destiny. Sherm gets his thrills from the excitement and ability to inspire those he performs for. Whether its an older woman or a young child, those moments where he knows he has impressed or inspired someone mean the most to him. In his future he sees going on tour with someone famous and being wellknown across the United States.
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cover
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
L
ady Wu-Tang has certainly brought the ruckus ever since their emergence to the Denver hip-hop scene a few years back. This talented group of diverse women specializes in impersonating the original group Wu-Tang Clan, hence where their name evolved. Wu-Tang’s raw style along with their overwhelming talent inspired this group of ladies a few years’ back. When Lady Wu decided to enter a hip-hop covers show, they had no idea they would get this far. Since then, Lady Wu has performed all around the metro area and some areas outside of Denver and has mastered impersonating The Wu-Tang Clan down to a tee. This group of ladies has definitely redefined the meaning of masculinity by not only impersonating an all male group, but by also being so authentic and in your face about it, these ladies are without a
doubt nothing to mess with. Lady Wu empowers young women by showing them that they have the ability to go head to head with any artist especially in such a male dominated genre. Outside the Wu, these nine talented ladies also work separately as slam poets, MC’s, deejays, etc. and their talents are recognized all throughout the state and some even across the country. These ladies have definitely made a name for themselves in the hiphop scene and have proven that they can hang. Their rawness continues to dominate, and they hope to go far with their talents whether it is impersonating the Wu-Tang or in their artistry. So when these ladies come through, you better protect ya neck because one of these days, there’s gonna be another WuRevolution!
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motivate
DON’T GIVE UP
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
“I always tell my kids if you lay down, people will step over you. But if you keep scrambling, if you keep going, someone will always, always give you a hand. Always. But you got to keep dancing, you got to keep your feet moving.” This motivational/inspirational quote was stated by Morgan Freeman, a well-known actor that has starred in a lot of movies like Deep Impact, The Sum of All Fears, Bruce Almighty, Evan Almighty and The Dark Knight Trilogy.
Raquel Robertson
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last laugh
determined nation magazine vol 2. iss. 6
TEXT MESSAGE FAILS courtesy of smartphowed.com
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