T H E E Y E O F E N T E R TA I N M E N T & L I F E S T Y L E
RUE JAY
From Pirate Radio to Midlands Takeover
BEYONCE TONI & GUY THE CLOTHES SHOW DANE BOWERS DARK ART LEE STAFFORD JANUARY 2012 £1.50 (where sold) WWW.STREETCREDMAGAZINE.COM
EDITOR’S LETTER
Mark Dwayne
Kelly Rowland
We enter 2012 can you believe it where has this year gone? Is it just us who has felt this rush of a year? Welcome to our new years special featuring the legendary Rock N Rolla event promoter and Dj Rue Jay known for providing the Midlands biggest weekly House events over the last 10 years. This is a massive exclusive on the ultimate Rock N Rolla which draws thousands every week. Streetcred is about credibility in what you do and Rue Jay sure hasit in a big way. Rock n Rolla ravers religiously follow their every move. We also check out the highlights of 2011 in this prestine edition. The music world was looking a bit bleek for new stars but thanks to X Factor they introduced us to Misha B and Amelia Lily. Notice i haven’t mentioned Marcus or Little Mix and thats because in my eye they are not stars but bless them they are sure to rise to the top.
Wasnt It a shock to the system that Misha B had been kicked out of the national competition? Many will blame Tulisa for that as she exposed a so called bullying behaviour that Misha B had backstage. Many say the X is a fix and its definitely not based on public votes. We will never know but Amelia and Misha B ARE TRUE STARS and its proven that the loser usually does better than the winner so if a fix they sure have done them a favour in the long run. I think many would agree that finally this was the chance to show that the X Factor could have been credible for producing good artists but have damaged cred with ones they choose to push. As for disspoinments this year Amy Winehouse death was a big shock and has left millions mourning all over the world. Quite a few legends we have had to say goodbye too this year sadly and RIP But sure good things are to co-
eme for new year and i do have a good feeling that the world will be interesting and positive things are to happen. Check out our hot New years issue with a Clothes Show 2011 special Toni and Guy fashion interviews with celebs and loads more enjoy your read and wishing you all an amazing new year. GRIMEY 5-7 DANE BOWERS 10-11 DARK ART 11-14 SMOKIN’ VONYL 15 HQ MUSIC 16-17 TONI & GUY 18-19 CLOTHES SHOW 20-25 FASHION 26-27 LEE STAFFORD 28-29 BEYONCE 30-31 RUE JAY 32-34 AMERIE 35 NKOTBSB 38-39
Published by InTouch Media, Fort Dunlop, Fort Park Way, Birmingham, B24 9TE. t. 0121 629 7728 - m. 07904 227 725 info@streetcredmagazine.com www.streetcredmagazine.com Editor-in-Chief: Mark Dwayne - Public Relations: Paivi Lehtonen - Head of Photography / Assistant Editor: Gordy Pix Photographer: Rosemarie James - Research & Features: Daina Andreson - DJ & Radio: DJ Mystikle Blue Grimey News Editor: Nicki Kelly - Design & Art: John Northam (Doublesided Media Group) www.dosime.co.uk
T A LOOK A
2011 S TOP NEW
DIES INEHOUSE 10. AMY W IES DD RDER 9. HEAVY P FOR MU LOCKED U OGG DIES R D E TO T C A O N D . 8 NS EL JACKSO M IS ARRESTED 7. MICHA N TRA O L IR G T 6. RACIS TS O 5. UK RIO D NT TALK TO AZIER DEA FR DE SHE CA E U D 4. JO A S E T TS RICE DA AND MISFI 3. KATIE P N MODELS UP ON MURDER O I M O A 2. N CKED KARTEL LO 1. VYBEZ ENTIAL STAR POT IST WITH T R A H G ROU BREAKTH MISHA B YEAR K OF THE COMEBAC A SHOLA AM LOCK ON THE B S ID K W NE YEAR S OF THE CONCERT A 1. RIHANN N SO IL H I R E K 2. AT B 3. TAKE TH D EDGE AND JOHN GE Y LE R A 4. JOE JAG M D DAMIEN m 5. NAS AN OF THE YEAR Birmingha T N E V d rooftop n a CLUB E w o b OLLA rain ROCK N R EAR OF THE Y ALBUMS RONE H THE TH YE - WATC N A D K E D W N O JAY Z A YS ALL N - NO BO KERI HILSO UD - LO RIHANNA EN TUNES ED TOP T KE STREETCR ARTHQUA BRINTH- E LA D N A EMPAH 1. TINIE T ETS NO REGR YP P A D 2. ESS SED ME IN K C A- CO Y YOU KIS 3. RIHANN CHANGED THE WA LE4. EXAMP NE - IM ON O OTIVATION E K A R 5. D ND- M LA W O R 6. KELLY HE WORLD CE-RUN T K 7. BEYON OC R Y T - PAR 8. LMAFO KANYE WEST- OTIS D N CONTROL 9. JAY Z A SON- LOSE IL H I R E K . 10 WWW.STREETCREDMAGAZINE.COM
GRIMEY NEWS
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Beyonce and J
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All shows have sold out at every venue booked for he r to perform and ar e selling roughly a thousand tickets a day says a close so urce. The Loud tour is a huge success for Rihanna and he r new album is hot stu ff too a definite mus t buy. While Beyonc e is turning into a lad y Rihanna will be th e one capturing the young lovers of music
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GRIMEY NEWS
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Fix Factor? No disrespect to Little Mix but haow the hell did they win over Amelia and Misha B? It really isn’t cool but we should have known they would win as X Factor was constantly pushing that the girls will be the first group to win the competition. We also think the judges know its all a fix i mean what is this we hear about Amelia single was advertised on HMV for sale a week before? hmmm
ns to ay Z
barely see the confirmed that Millionaire rapthe has a love o see...wonder
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GRIMEY NEWS
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Dane Bowers – Man behind the scene
Dane Bowers Not many British pop stars can say they have been working with superstars like Janet Jackson supporting her The Velvet Rope World Tour or Victoria Beckham with the single Out Of Your Mind, but Dane has those merits behind him. Being part of the boy band Another Level Dane has become a house hold name in UK, especially when he is remembered for dating Katie Price. Dane Bowers was born 29th of November 1979. His career started soon after he left The Brit school in Croydon London when Another Level sang their hearts out and gained seven Top 10 singles in UK. Ever since the band, Dane has been involved with the music business and grown his talent to the present day working hard in the back ground managing and producing. I had the pleasure to meet Dane in Birmingham, where he was doing his DJ set, just one of those things he does. P: So Dane, how are you doing? D: Im really good thank you. P: What are you doing now a days, because we haven’t heard much about you? 10
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D: Im kind of behind the scenes at the moment, you know I kind of started a management company maybe couple of months ago, Im looking after US clients doing their stuff in UK and Europe, I got a company called Nacalap, so I spend lots of time on that and I DJ as well. I always keep my hands on lots of projects really. P: We have seen lots of old school bands coming back and making a new success for their carrier, shall we see Another Level coming back any time in the future? D: I think the rule number one when you come back is that you have to get along with the other members of the band. We don’t all get on that well anymore, which is a shame. We had a great ride and we kind of finished a bit too early of what we should have but we don’t kind of see eye to eye to where we get together again. P: Will you get back to singing again? D:That’s why I have always done things, done music, done presenting stuff, dine the DJ and I have done bits and peaces here and there really. I have started singing again, I mean I have a house track that’s been signed in the states, so we’re
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Paivi gonna do some stuff over there... Theres not really much singing in there, it’s kind of an electro house kind of track really, I play it for you later on. I’m gonna be honest, I have been 3 days on the road out at late and the voice right now is not working. P: So where you get your inspiration from? D: Well I think, I used to listen to, well Michael Jackson to me, I mean you find it very hard to have any music genre that is not somehow influenced by Michael Jackson. Weather you like him or not, you propably are doing something that he has done before, he’s the man he was always there. Stevie Wonder, Al Green these are the sort of people I listen to. Mostly soul stuff, my dad was like, I think he was one of the first pirate soul station DJs in the country so for me that was always in the house and that’s what I listened to... Kool and the Gang, Stevie, Al Green and that kind of stuff, so for me that always was a sticker. Dane Powers DJ set is tight. The man clearly knows his stuff and he has got lots of talent, which comes through his whole musical variety. Dane, we will be looking for that new material with a great interest. Words by Paivi
“I think the rule number one when you come back is that you have to get along with the other members of the band. We don’t all get on that well anymore, which is a shame.�
Danny Bowen is a work of Dark Art The art industry will always boom and especially today as its very much the current popular trend with fashion conscious people. It’s the remarkable talent and personality we like to expose to our Streetcred readers. Dark Art is the no 1 air brushing store in the cutting edge Oasis complex in city centre Birmingham. Founder Danny Bowen does it all from Trainers tshirts bodyart to even motorbikes.
“Basically anything from T shirts Helmets vans Motorbikes Trainers people come in here with their idea on the phone and i just take it from there.”
His dreams have come true where he has his own business that people appreciate him for. Most of all Danny gets his drive from his wife and kids. The amazing thing about this guy is he is dyslexic and he appreciates that he is able to share his dream to the masses. He also thanks Graham Paton for being a massive support for the Dark Art vision. The Dark Art brand is well known across the country and Danny’s passion is to make the customer satisfied which he has done for the last 3 years. You wont be dissapointed with his unique works . We catch up the Birmingham lad to talk about his experience in the world of air brushing and how he has come from nothing to something. So what is the inspiration for Dark Art Air Brushin? Danny: I did a van for someone a few years back and everybody went crackers for it, from there the word got round that Danny is the man for spray paint. So how is the work going? Danny: Met quite a few celebrities from it that want work now and again and i also do loads of footballers and boxers. You want to see my stuff at Bambu nightclub they have some of my best work.
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So what do you spray paint? Danny: Basically anything from T shirts Helmets vans Motorbikes Trainers people come in here with their idea on the phone and i just take it from there I go all over the country with Dark art and its making an impact to the public. Is there another vision you have for Dark Art? Danny: What i want to do is my own clothing as it has become so popular
and yes guys come to me for what ever you want i love to see your vision and make you happy with the result i give. Visit Our Website WWW.DARKARTAIRBRUSHIN.CO.UK If you are looking for something completely unique Dark Arts is the store to visit. We customize and hand spray absolutely everything and anything using Helmets, T-
shirts, Leathers, Canvases, Trainers etc. Every piece created by Danny Dark Art is 100% one of a kind and is made to exceptional standards do not miss out!!! At Dark Art we can even give you a spray tattoo! Contact: Danny 0789-147-9126 Email: Dark.Artsprayin@yahoo.co.uk
Get your one of a kind spray paint t-shirt, trainer or on any surface, at Dark Art! Dark Art Oasis Market Corporation St Birmingham B4 6SX 0789-147-9126
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Smokin Vynl is the only independant record store in Erdington High st Birmingham sellng records cd packs and Dedicated people go tothe store for teh latest in Drum and bass house Bassline jungle dubstep and many other genres.,They are also stockists for tickets for some of the biggest club events around such as Ravology Random Concept and other vairious events. S,okin Vinyl really encourage indepen-
dant artists to bring their music in to sell as they want to get behindthem in a big way. Steve at the shop says 'Not everyone downlads' We are proof that people still buy their music especially the cd packs and we really like to support local talent so bring in your tunes
FIND US ON... Smokin’ Vinyl 16 Coton Lane, Erdington, B23 6TP. 0121 373 7051 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smokin-Vinyl/116224475055595 The hottest tape packs in store!
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Going back to basics seems to be the way forward these days as people miss the old skool way of things like going to a record shop with two frends and leave knowing 15, This is what the new HQ muzik is about founded by local dj Subdue who is passionate about supporting the underground scene. Here are snaps of the opening which featured the number one mc in D&B Mc Bassman and dj devize. Streetcred was there rocking with the passers buy who was t entertained by the cutting edgesounds Lee says its all about networking in real life with true music lovers.
SUB DUE
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MUSIC
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BRAND NEW RECORD STORE HQ MUZIK
Priory Square Shopping Centre, Birmingham 0121 448 4649 Opening Hours Everyday 10am - 6pm
Stocking the best in drum n bass, dubstep and urban music. CD Packs, Mix CD’s, Old Skool Tape Packs, Tickets for all major UK events, DJ Gear, Merchandise, T-Shirts, Hoodies, etc.
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MUSIC
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Toni & Guy 10 The Parade Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B72 1PL
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FEATURE
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Toni And Guy is the leading hair salon that has been known for top styling since 1963 and has well over 420 salons in 42 countries worldwide employing over 5000 in the UK and a further 2000 + accross the world . The repution is well deserved for always having a warm welcome from stylists .The legendary brand brings in catwalk styles to the high street making them versatile and wearable. Tony & Guy are also the official sponsor for the London Fashion week and creates the hairstyles for over 60 design and catwalk shows each year. They also launch a globel trend col-
lection ever year taking inspiration from international brands. Lexi lewis spokesperson and stylist for the Sutton Toni & Guy started as a saturday girl at the age of 16 and has worked her way up. 'its great working for Toni & Guy and the more you get into it the more you see and i love being involved in the london fashion week which we sposor every year. We constantly go on courses to better our skills and what is great is that the company is really supportive of their workers and if i wanted to move to London and do more training they are always willing to assist.
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FEATURE
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THE
CLOTHES
The UK's largest and most talked about fashion & beauty event of the year was a massive success. Over 6 days the NEC Birmingham was home to the ultimate girls' day out featuring over 500 shopping brands, celebrity presenters, live performances, fast paced catwalk shows and inspirational hair and beauty demonstrations.
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FASHION
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SHOW
2011
THE SUZUKI FASHION THEATRE - The World's Largest Catwalk Show 45 MINUTES - 40 MODELS & DANCERS - 350 OUTFITS - 8 SCENE CHANGES - CELEBRITIES - LIVE MUSIC ACTS- FASHION AT ITS FINEST
If you attended the 2011 Clothes show you would have witnessed cutting edge fashion brought to life and every year has proven to that this is is the no 1 exhibition to be for a jaw dropping catwalk show with celebrity performers.
This year saw Alexandra Burke The Risk Kele Le Le Roc take to the stage. Check out our images by Mark Dwayne photography capturing the great moments of the exhibtion. You want to shop till you drop its all about the clothes Show. Thousands spending their hard earned on the big brands. Roll on 2012 for more spending!!!!!
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FASHION
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FASHION
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FASHION
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Lurve the curves? According to the recent research the average Brittish woman has grown the waist size from 12 to 14 just over the decade. As well as dress size also the bra size has grown from the B cup to C cup. Despite the demand of the bigger clothing, designers still make clothes for smaller ladies and even thought it is easier for a large lady to find clothes that will fit her, still there seems to be an illusion that bigger ladies can not look sexy or hot. Modelling industry still keeps feeding us with the images of small ladies, selection of large clothing is not big and if you do think that you can still get clothes from the normal high street shop, you have to be very careful with sizing as its not a norm and almost every brand will have their own standards on sizing. So are the curves a sign of the healthier looking woman or should we aim to be small and athletic looking? Modern lifestyle has shaped the figure of the woman and still keeps doing so as we go along. When we used to do a lot of walking, now the convenience of a car districts us from the natural exercise and we rather jump behind the wheel than do a traditional school run by walking. The problem has been acknowledged in the game world and there is plenty interactive games to shape us and keep us fit. If we are going to the yearly check up in our GP, we almost certainly get the advice of keeping healthy, but at the same time the modern lady has so many demands in her life that they simply don’t have the time off to them selves. Why is it that we think to be sexy you have to be small? People
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around the world admire the curves of much loved Beyonce into the extent that distractive underwear has become very popular and is now available in most high street shops. We lift our bums, boost our breast and tighten up our waist to get that perfect hour glass figure, and if the clothing is not doing it there is always the option to have it done surgically. There is an answer for every body and shape around. Naturally woman gets curvier once she has had the children, the pelvis area will get bigger because of carrying the baby and giving birth. So ladies, if you are worried about your curves, don’t because they just show that you are all woman and there is no shame in that at all. In fact.... just between us girls, I hear that the guys LUUURRRVE the curves too ;o)))!!!
Rocawear Ladies Imports www.heels.com
Sigrid Boot - Khaki (Rocawear, $80.99)
Women’s Natily - Red (Rocawear, $64.99)
Galla Sandal - Cream ($58.49)
Peep Toes - White (Rocawear, $64.99)
Black Suede Boot ($58.99)
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FASHION
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Lee Stafford – Cutting edge of the hair dressing For many in the hair dressing industry Lee Stafford is a familiar name, which brings the smile on the face because of the fantastic hair cuts he produces with unique techniques. Lee has slowly but surely developed his talent to the top and is now known internationally because of his own range of hair products and the appearance in TV and press. As a house hold name he has gained a lots respect and this Essex boy has travelled all over the world to show off his skills and educate fellow hairdressers to get better and more motivated. Lee started his carrier by cutting hair in his mum’s living room. The future star of hair industry quickly developed his own style to dress the hair, make the hair textured and good looking. In 1998 his carrier really got a boost when he won the title for Men’s British Hairdresser of the year and with this fame he was able to start to build his business in a serious of salons all 28
FEATURE
over UK. Lee has been in a tele more than once; he was a successful salon manager in Celebrity Scissorhands teaching celebrities how to cut hair and recently he was in a secret millionaire helping a local community. Lee had developed his own hair products and fragrances to enhance his business and this successful business man has not forgot what is important to him, cutting hair and improving his techniques and taking them further. Currently Lee is booking personal couture appointments to his clients, in which you get his all attention, the hair cut that suites you and your lifestyle ( oh and its the one you want!) , new tailored look for you and to top it all the master class of how to maintain your look! What a fantastic Christmas present! To have a look at his work or to book him, why not to visit http://www.leestafford.com/uk/
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Beyoncé Certified Queen Words: Mark Dwayne You would never think that Beyonce is only on her 4th album and has had a career in music over the last 10 years dazzling millions with her powerful performances and blowing minds with her supreme vocals. Yes, with four albums and countless awards sees the 29 year old lady as the worlds biggest popstar staying true to urban street culture. There is no doubt that Beyonce takes popular music culture to another level with heavy rnb/ soul tracks that still get the underground respect. What the great think about Beyonce is her sound has never changed from when she was introduced to us by Sony 12 years ago. What made her is what she has stuck with and she has definitely shown that you don’t have to water down to make it worldwide. B has actually gone harder and better with vocal and stage performance and grabbed audiences who would have never usually listened to her type of music. The sexiest girl that every guy wants is back and showing the world that Girls are the force to be reckoned with. When you watch her ‘Run the World’ video you can see she is serious and means every word. “It’s definitely riskier than something a bit more...simple. I just heard the track and loved that it was so different: it felt a bit African, a bit electronic and futuristic”, explains Beyonce in an interview. “It reminded me of what I love, which is mixing different cultures and eras - things that typically don’t go together - to create a new sound. I can never be safe; I always try and go against the grain. As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal. That’s how I’ve gotten to where I am.” For sure Beyonce doesn’t fail to shock and please her fans and we definitely don’t know what she will do next in terms of style but what we do know is that it will be huge. The promo tour for the new album titled ‘4’ has been phenomenal. We all witnessed the spectacular Billboard 3D screen showcase and of course Glastonbury was ridiculously hot. All is well on the career side and it seems things are hunky dory with her hubby Jay
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Z, despite the fact they spilt up over the valentines period but which couple doesn’t have the odd tiff? Frankly we cant see why they would have anything to argue about apart from who is making more cash. Beyonce is definitely what you call a modern day cutting edge pop icon who is more than music but a true businesswoman and whatever she puts her hands to surely turns to gold. The girl with the midas touch you can say and with more popularity than past icons such as Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul and Mariah in their heyday. It’s also true that Beyonce hasn’t had any scandals or been known for drug taking or sleeping around. She really has made it being a massive talent. Speaking of sleeping around she is known to have only a few boyfriends before Jay Z and it is alleged it was him who she lost her virginity to. She cant do anything wrong and has a squeaky clean image and is compared to the likes of Will Smith, proving you can make it without daft publicity stunts. Jay Z says he has the hottest chick in the game and she certainly has the hottest guy in the game with both raking a fortune doing what they genuinely love. Jay Z and Beyonce is what everyone strives for. We are just waiting patiently for the baby’s to pop along
“I always try and go against the grain. As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal. That's how I've gotten to where I am.”
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‘Beyonce is definitely what you call a modern day cutting edge pop icon...’ WWW.STREETCREDMAGAZINE.COM
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Rue Jay - From Pirate Radio to Midlands Takeover the party! I really don’t think it would have worked without any of us involved! I love the other Rocknrolla’s, we are like brothers and its so nice to be able to have had the experiences that we have had together touring the world this year! I very much look forward to the future with them and the brand because its like a snowball, it keeps getting bigger and bigger! We are very lucky!
“We live a very fast life and sometimes lose sight of how huge Rolla is, but to be stood on the other side of the world and have a reception like that is pretty special!”
Tell us about Rocknrolla, how did it all start? Rocknrolla is the brain child of Alex Schmitz! He wanted to create an afterparty based around 4 of the industries key figures, and got myself, Micky Slim, Will Bailey and himself round a table to chat about a possible merge … and Rocknrolla was born! We wanted to create a party for the people, no bullsh*t, a proper music lovers event and one that would rock the masses! And that is just what we have done! I feel massively priviledged to be working alongside the guys, they are all unique individual characters and each of us bring our own strengths to 32
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How long have you been a DJ and where did the inspiration come from? you know how did this all start? I started DJing on pirate radio (Mix FM) in 1998, my first Club gig was for Slag i@ The Steering Wheel in 1999. The whole thing started when myself and a couple of mates, Paul Thomas (Godskitchen worldwide resident) and Colin H (Bambu) decided to chip in and buy some decks, after becoming hooked on the idea from generally being club addicts and seeing other people up there rocking the crowd and thinking ‘I could do that’ haha! Has your passion always been for House/Electro Music? My passion has always been for House music yes, however Electro house music came into my set quite late, when I formed a DJ duo with my old business partner Andy Bell called TwoDirty. We were the first DJ’s in the midlands to start playing the dirty electro sound, eventually creating the soundtrack to the infamous Mud Club afterparty! I hear you are a fan of Michael Jackson, how much of an effect has he had in your career? Michael Jackson is the king of pop! It’s as simple as that! I can’t recall any other artist who’s sound is so timeless, even to this day. Billy Jean and Thriller are just two tracks that don’t sound a day out of date and can still rock a dancefloor even when played in the coolest of clubs to this day! He had a big part to play in my love a fascination for dance music from a very early age. Just how many years have you been a club promoter and what age were you? I have been promoting for almost 10 years now. I was in my early twenties when I started to promote at the infamous Steering Wheel. I fell in love with the idea after doing a bit of flyering for Club DNA at the time.. I just loved the ‘selling’ aspect of it all! Out of all your brands which one gives you the biggest buzz? All of my events give me a different kind of buzz and excitement! Spin is the midlands biggest mid-week party and see’s up to 1000 people through our doors on a weekly basis. Those kind of numbers are amazing on a Saturday let alone an Thursday night. Bambu is very glamorous, and attracts a Celebrity based clientele meaning that I have
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that to sell when out and about with those types of people, where as Rocknrolla is much more a music lovers party which has attracted the UK’s attention with our line-ups and tours to date. Rocknrolla is the brand that has taken me to Seoul (South Korea), Ibiza and Austria within its first year with tours so would have to say that gives me the biggest buzz! In regards to Rock n Rolla you have had some major names such as Example can you tell me who else that smashed the attendance record? Yeah …ME! Haha ..my birthday last year! We did have Howard Donald (Take That) on the line up however! But if anyone ever asks, I forget to tell that that bit! Haha! Ms Dynamite and judge Jules also pulled huge crowds too! Who do you look up too as a dj? I’ve got to say Swedish House mafia! They have great stage presence and their energy behind the decks is amazing! There is no better rush than a DJ vibin’ with the crowd. I also love the way that they market themselves and their party this year at Ushuaia Ibiza Hotel last year was electric! Their production was out of this world! SHM know what their people want! And bring it in a big way! Whats the best Rock n rolla event ever? I would have to say the best UK Rocknrolla ever was most definitely the Example gig cos I have never ever seen a guy walk in and smash an arena like he did! He had the crowd bouncin for an hour! Internationally, has got to be our Ibiza tour this summer! We took over a plane full of 300 people from the UK to party at Space and the Pukka Up boat party! People still buzz off it even to this day! When Spin left Apres you went to the Royal which is a bigger and better venue.. was there any doubts that it would be a success considering it was so attached to Apres? Spin has been running for over 11 years now and moved venues 5 times, so the move was nothing
new to us. The brand and following is huge at the moment so didn’t feel nervous about the move at all. We struggled to fit everyone in at Apres so knew that the move was needed more than anything, and since we relaunched our numbers have literally doubled in size! The Royal is perfect for our mid-week party! Tell us about the other projects away from the clubbing scene that im hearing about? Haha word definitely spreads in this industry doesn’t it?! Well you have got yourself an exclusive here! I am launching my own tattoo shop in Sutton Coldfield early January 2012! As anyone will notice the first time they see me is that I have somewhat of a love affair with Ink! I am teaming up with Andy at Vivid Ink to trade as my own on Beeches Walk. The studio will be like no other tho! It will feature iPad 2’s for designs rather than old laminates that usual tattoo shops have lying around, A state of the art DJ Booth so that we can stage weekly tattoo music session slots using the UKs biggest DJs all set in a very plush backdrop including velvet draping, chanderliers and candle arbours etc. It really will be unique and will be using some of the best international artists from all over the world! Did you ever think that your events would be the biggest events in Birmingham and be known even overseas? I have always had belief in myself
within this industry! I take a lot of pride in booking the right DJs, acts and production for my events because I want people to go home loving the whole experience! I think that this comes across in a big way for anyone that does attend my events! What is the secret to staying in the business and being so successful i mean i see you havent lost your passion whatsoever and its been like years you have been your own industry I have seen a lot of people become successful but have also seen many more people fail! I think that its important to you conduct yourself in the right way, take the time out to get to know your public and never let anything get to your head. If you an do this then you are on the right track to success! Nobody like a big head and I feel that’s key! I work day and night too! This industry is far from a 9-5, I don’t do business hours, its like an ongoing thing, a life style! I get the ultimate satisfaction in seeing my club night’s packed out and rocking… that gives me the biggest buzz and makes me hungry for even bigger and better things! What are your other hidden talents? I am a great artist! My drawing skills are quite amazing even if I do say so myself! I always fancied myself as a bit of a footballer too, but that all went down the pan after an injury at an early age. I do play an annual
We wanted to create a party for the people, no bullsh*t, a proper music lovers event and one that would rock the masses! And that is just what we have done! charity football match at villa park tho saying that and scored in front of the Holte End a couple of years ago so cant be bad! haha Describe your following in three words? BEAUTIFUL GLAMOROUS ROCKING Spin and Rock are the addictive drug for your followers why do you think that is? :) Because people know what they are gonna get with my events. Good quality music, a none pretencious no chav’s allowed crowd, great production, secured by the best security company in the land! Lenny & Otis at Safety Net have got my events on lock down! What is the difference between a Spin party and a Rock n Rolla session? Spin and Rocknrolla are world apart in terms of music.You do get a good crossover of people between the 2 events but Spin is a much younger crowd that love their bouncy house and Jackline music and takes on a much more fun atmosphere, where as Rocknrolla is more serious with headline acts and playing dirty electro house fused with big room house.
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What does the future hold for Rue and is their an ultimate dream? We would love to tour the USA with Rocknrolla, that would be the ultimate dream for us, cos that where its at! We have plenty of contacts out there so who knows but for now I just wanna take Rocknrolla to new heights with the boys! We already have 4 tours lines up next year in South Korea, Ibiza and Austria and in January we have a massive announcement to make regarding Rocknrolla next Summer so watch this space!;) What dont we know about Rue you would like people to know? Some people get me all wrong! I meet a lot of people that say to me ‘Oh I thought you would be arrogant’ when asked why they cant answer. It comes with the job I think and am very conscious of it! This is why I try to get to know as many people as possible and say hello to people at my parties that I don’t even know haha! Whats your biggest achievement? Most definitely The monster that we have created with Rocknrolla! When me and the lads were stood at the World DJ Festival in South Korea on our own Rocknrolla stage and 8000 Korean’s are going mental literally skankin and singing Rocknrolla at the
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top of their voices, it puts everything into perspective and makes you realize just how big your brand is! We live a very fast life and sometimes lose sight of how huge Rolla is, but to be stood on the other side of the world and have a reception like that is pretty special! If their was a dream babe you could bring to one of your events who would it be? I don’t really do dream girls or celebrity crushes but if I had to choose one, id say it would have to be Amy Childs! She’s down to earth and seems like a fun lovin girl and reckon that underneath those cheek bone implants and inch thick foundation, there’s a Rocknrolla waiting to be unleashed! Would you say you are fashionable and where do you like to shop? Haha! I would say I am very fashionable! Probably TOO fashionable and try to create trends somewhat! My style is all over the place, Street fused with raw or very smart! How many people do you know covered 70% in tattoo’s and with 2 diamond implants in their face?! Interview by Mark Dwayne
AMERIE @ FIFTY SIX, LONDON
Another US superstar dropped by Club Fifty Six in London’s Muswell Hill whilst we happened to be chilling out there. The lovely Amerie popped in to perform her smash hit single, ‘1 Thing’. The crowd loved her and unlike a lot of artists these days, she was more than happy to sign autographs and pose for pictures with fans for ages. Now, that’s what we call a real star.
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CLUBBIN’
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NKOTBSB
GOES INTERNATIONAL NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK & BACKSTREET BOYS, BRING THEIR NKOTBSB TOUR TO EUROPE www.nkotbsb.com With the continued and insatiable fan demand, the unstoppable phenomenon that is NKOTBSB will officially bring their show to Europe. Kicking off in April, New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys will make stops in Ireland, the UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Tickets for the European tour dates go on sale to the public beginning on Friday, October 28th at www.aeglive. co.uk. “Our fans want us overseas, so that is what we will do,” said New Kids’ Donnie Wahlberg. “We have such dedicated fans, and they continue to come out for us time and time again. Our international fans have been flying to see us stateside for years, so now we are coming to them!”
Entertainment Weekly raved: “Each tune was performed with the same energy, crotch-grabbing, and hipthrusting that turned these groups into teens sensations years ago. NKOTBSB may well be the tastiest musical mouthful of the summer.” Produced by AEG, the NKOTBSB Tour begins April 20, 2012 with confirmed shows through May 14th. Further ticket and tour information for all dates is available at www.aeglive. co.uk. NKOTBSB first shocked and delighted fans when they took the stage together for a medley at the sold out NKOTB Radio City Music Hall show. The two groups wowed audiences again in their first joint televised
“Europe is like a second home for Backstreet so we are all excited to finally be bringing this show to all our fans there. NKOTBSB is going international,“ added Nick Carter from the Backstreet Boys. “We can’t wait to get over there and show everyone the fun we’ve been having all summer long.” The European leg will bring the historic NKOTBSB tour to 18 stops, giving fans across the globe chances to catch their favorite groups on one stage. Fans overseas can finally see what North American Press hailed as “One of the hottest tickets of the summer,” as described by OK! Magazine.
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NEWS
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performance at the American Music Awards almost a year ago in November 2010 and have toured consistently through 2011 since coming together. With over 200 million albums sold between both bands, and smash hit after smash hit, these two pop sensations have dominated the music scene for over three decades. Aiming to please, these guys are giving concert goers and diehard fans everywhere the ultimate “night out” experience. For more information please visit www.nkotbsb.com.
CURRENT LIST OF SHOW DATES (As of October 17, 2011) DATE
CITY
VENUE
April 20 April 21 April 23 April 24 April 26 April 27 April 28 May 12 May 13
Belfast, Ireland Dublin, Ireland Liverpool, UK Manchester, UK Newcastle, UK Birmingham, UK London, UK Herning, Denmark Malmo, Sweden
Odyssey O2 Echo Arena MEN Arena Newcastle Arena LG Arena O2 Jyske Bank Boxen Malmo Arena
For complete ticket and tour information visit, NKOTBSB. com and www.aeglive.co.uk.
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NEWS
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PIMPEDUP! So, the Mercedes SL600. It's safe to assume you can already guess the results of this appealing alliance between the SL's graceful body and the epic V12 twin-turbo engine. But don't turn over just yet. We're about to conduct an experiment. We wanted to test the SL600's abilities and, as luck would have it, the perfect opportunity presented itself on Mercedes' international press launch in the South of France. The photographer decided he wanted to catch an early flight back to the UK from Marseille - a decision he took a little over an hour before the plane was due to take off. A further catch was the fact we were 70 miles away at the Paul Ricard circuit. OK, it's hardly scientific, but as proof of 40
PHAT RIDES
the SL600's outrageous talents it more than serves the purpose. The test pans out like something from one of those PlayStation driving games - get the lensman to the airport on time. But not even in Grand Theft Auto is there a car so suited to a particular task. Photographers are unable to travel light, so it's fortunate the SL has a decent boot, especially with the roof up. But boot space isn't the issue here - it's what goes on when you fuse throttle to floorpan that's of more interest. And when you do that in an SL600, things happen. Heading away from the circuit, the N8 winds its way through a series of twisty rollercoaster turns exactly the sort of stuff you'd imagine a 2025kg roadster to struggle with. Especially since the SL600 wears softer air springs than its twin brother, the
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more overtly sporting SL55 AMG. Yet at no stage did the V12 feel unduly nose- heavy. That's because Mercedes has filled the engine bay with exotic materials - aluminium alloy abounds, and the cylinder head covers are diecast magnesium - so that this 493bhp engine weighs only 263kg all-in. In fact, the whole car is slightly subdued. The external mods are deliberately minor - extra chrome on the grille, silver-painted brake callipers, V12 emblems on the flanks and that’s it. Inside, bar the well-bolstered seats, there are equally few sporting cues (but an unparalleled amount of standard equipment). In short, the SL600 has a notably more relaxed character than the AMG and will probably attract more mature buyers as a result. They’ll have to be equally well-heeled, mind - an estimated price of £92,000 ain’t cheap.
mono B
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