BR
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
AN D N EW LO O K!
www.streetcredmagazine.com
MAY-JUNE 2011
RRP £2.95
Giant Clubbin’Special!
See who got spotted at Gatecrasher, Sense & Sugar Suite
Jessie J
London’s DivaTakes Over
Zardy Campbell
Trey Songz
WORLD EXCLUSIVE
Apple Bottom Photoshoot
On single life and new found fame.
Fashion Lick
Where do you buy yours?
Sufferers of DomesticViolence Speak up and get help
Kingie’s
Taking Barbers to the highest level
Vybz Kartel The Gaza Man Reveals All!
Bobby Noodles - Mykal Rose Richard Blackwood - FemaleTakeover Justice, 1 Day Exclusive Supported by Apple Bottoms & Canon
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6-11
RESSURECTION EDITION
April 2011 - www.streetcredmagazine.com
hanna, J-LO, Ja Rule, Ciara, Ri Bruno Mars, Beyonce, Ga Ga, d at this!) Kanye... (you know we’re goo NEYO @ NIA 12 Dancer. Singer, Song Writer,
MEET THE TEAM
13 MARQUES HOUS TON
ETTER DITOR’S L
E
GRIMEY NEWS
!
k We’re Bac
We’ve got the pics! Check it out!
Hey how you doing? Nice to have you all with us once again FASHION 14-27 reading our exclusive magazine that is back on the scene giving you all what’s hot and what deserves to be recogGirls & Guys, Dresses, nised. As I am writing this it’s quite emotional, as you all Shoes, Hoodies, Caps, know our humble beginnings where we come from has been a long road of blood sweat and tears. The story is 14 years and Max Factor. long but to put it shortly, we are just normal honest people doing the work for the community and genuinely want to see the upliftment of the 42-43 FANCY PANTS underdog. It’s important that people see things de it into to believe it can happen and we know what Be Seen! Have you ma its like to have the door shut and you try to do s? rie lle StreetCred’s ga things to better yourself but can get distracted. SIVE I myself relate and this is why we do this to be IS EXCLU er N IC S a voice for you. Streetcred fans have cried and 1 30-3 he got h pleaded for its return and from the heart we on how s ip s s o g thank you for the love. Where have we been Get the you say? Good question, and I am happy to dream! answer with excitement because you know 58-59 KINGIE that were always up to something, ha ha. Barber Shop Special on T he King! Streetcred has been working on our
extentions to the company giving our readers true all round media value. We are happy to be the first Magazine TV Online and Social Network from the Midlands with international readership. Did I say Social Network? Yes, you can check out the Chatlog on our site. Register free, set up your own profile, add friends, create groups and connect with loved ones. Streetcred Chatlog is an amazing opportunity to make connections in the entertainment industry as our site is a one stop shop to your favourite scene and most importantly you stay fully connected to us. A very easy to use site successfully getting hits from all over the world and still growing. The TV online show is a fabulous monthly feature to our site where you can actually see Streetcred in action getting the behind the scene shots of celebs and normal people who do extraordinary things as well as clublife and interviews. We promote all that’s positive in the community and really have the mass readership.
22-23 JC HAIR JC Hair Salon Feature
42-43
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CLUBBIN
See who got spotted!
Were back by popular demand and very happy to be here with our resurrection edition boasting Trey Songz, Vybz Kartel, all that is hot in the fashion world and so much more. Bi-Monthly Streetcred is out on the shelves and our website boasting the chatlog social network is growing info@www.streetcredmagazine.com by numbers everyday. If you haven’t registered, then do so now, and gaze over the hot debates markdwayne@streetcredmagazine.com and relevant news of today. We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who is backing our advertising@streetcredmagazine.com return and we are still the leaders of urban entertainment publishing, putting independent UK Info Lines: businesses on the map. We are not just a magazine we are a way of life. Created by the people 08432 891058 for the people. Ok, enough rambling, lets see what is in this edition, turn and enjoy our vibes! 07904 227 725 Big up to Almighty God for making this all possible and the new team; Gordy, Paivi, Daina, John New Format Media - MDG Productions Streetcred TV Online (Doublesided Media), Zardia, Steve Williams, Nicki Kelly and all the writers. Bless to Mum for being a true inspiration and guiding light, love you loads xxx. Also I just want to say don’t let anybody make you believe you are nothing, because everybody is somebody. ¬ God Bless - Mark Dwayne MDG [Editor]
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MEET THE TEAM Editor-in-Chief This is the Job we give MDG because he likes pretending he’s in charge, but really he’s the canary in the mine. We treat him well, water him often and sometimes he gets food. Add MDG on Chatlog www.streetcredmagazine.com
Jessica Slater - Turns heads a bit, defo a hot tottie as Usher would say. Our Jess Slater is an alround pr talent with loads of exciting news for us to put in the magazine. A lover of hip hop and does the guestlist for some of the biggest nights in the country. Check out her fashion pages and yep she really knows what looks hot for you! Add Jessica on Chatlog - streetcredmagazine.com
By Jess Slater & Melissa Scott
This Spring it’s all about a colour BOOM! Super bright block colours have been gracing Relations all thePublic SS 2011 Catwalk runways such as Max Mara, Prada, Gucci. Paivi - An amazing PR and women who boasts of a friendly personality the realcool: juice think for our Daytime looks shouldthat be gets laidback magazine. Paivi is our homegirl from Finland and retro funky and ALWAYS STAND OUT!
Photographer Rosemarie Davies - Fashion Freek! Takes her own neat pics of stars too. See what she did for us at Trey Songs and Ne- Yo. This lady has an amazing eye. The creativity for magazines and Fashion is Rosie all daylong
MEET THE TEAM
Fashion Full Stop
Fashion Editor
makes sure we all have a smile on our face. ‘Morning
Michael Kors £179 ... bless her. Vans £34chocolates guys for everyone’ Rayban for Asos £108
Add Rosie on Chatlog - www.streetcredmagazine.com
Add Paivi on Chatlog - www.streetcredmagazine. com Asos £6
Head of Photography & Assistant Editor
Flavour of the Month Editor Zardia Campbell - We think she has a great eye for hot talent so we have given her the Flavour Of The Month slot and as you will see she was modelling Apple Bottom wear for Brookyln yard ooh arr I say.
Topshop £5
Topshop £8
Add Zardy on Chatlog - www.streecredmagazine.com
Research & Features Co-ordinator
Design Art & Directions - John Northam
We love slouchy
The views expressed in Streetcred magazine are not Jeans he has no views... don’t necessarilyBoyfriend the editors, because colourful kill him with if you read anythingvans, offensive! And Oi,baseball MDG! Yes, you up the top...! jackets, toy Never, I repeat, never write an Editor’s note THAT long again! It was hell watches and trying to fit it in. I know it’s been a while, but we don’t Topshop £16 need a novella!raybans! Find John at.. Doublesided Media Group - www.dosime.co.uk
Daina - This girl has worked for Channel 4 the BBC and now owns her own media company called Playwright. The gorjus Daina Anderson lends her professional skills to our publication with her exciting Girl About Town spread where you see what she has Lego £25 been up too in the normal life of Daina..we love it! Add Daina on Chatlog - www.streetcredmagazine.com
DJ & Radio Presenter DJ Mystikle Blue - The famous DJ from Birmingham making noise on Sandwell radio and headlining the hot fancy pants party plus she likes to be in publications boasting that she won the King Of the Decks competion beating the guys ha ha MB has been with Streetcred for over 6 years and continues to rise with her talent.. acts as an a&r for a massive record company too, definitely a person to know .
Gordy Pix - Not only does this man shoot the best photography you’ve ever seen with a career spanning Asosyears. £30 Gordy is in the publishing industry for over 15 our true friend to Streetcred and keeps us updated Vans £34 £10 in London and has been known with whatsTopshop going on to showcase people at his events who were once unsigned and now have huge record deals. Jessie J ring any bells? Gordy Pix is the Man! Add Gordy on Chatlog.
Grimey News Editor
Topshop £40
Topshop £18
Nicki Kelly - Freelance journalist and a bit of a songwriter... really knows whats happening in the music scene before anybody even us!! So we had to bring her on board as we don’t want any problems, ha ha. Nicki is the great person£37 ality of our publication and willVans have you in stiches with her sense of humour. So loveable is our Nicki. Trapstar £65
Daytime F
Add Nicki on Chatlog - www.streetcredmagazine.com
Add Mystikle Blue on Chatlog www.streetcredmagazine.com
Contribitors: Natasha Brown, Steve Williams [Sports], Playwright Media, Atlantic Records, Claire Coster, Taponeswa Mavunga, Sony Music Entertainment, Apple Bottoms, Babyliss, Kinect, Canon, BlackBerry, Kos Dillon, MAC. The views expressed in Streetcred Magazine are not necessarily the editors opinion so don’t try to kill him if you read anything you feel offended by. The magazine is meant to be a fun read and gives objective views and is non threatening to anyone. We simply represent the truth of popular culture. All content is copyright to New Format Media. No part of this magazine can be used without official authorisation.
Artist Management Distribution PR Music Production Artist Development www.salivaville.com
Laurel Robinson
Dream of a Carribean Poet.
A Jamaican poets dream is to have her work published and we at Streetcred are happy to share some of her work with you. Inspired by her mentor, Louise Bennet, they were both born in Kingston, Jamaica. Laurel has been studying criminology at University for the last five years and has been in England since 1985 working with underprivileged children. This lovely lady enjoys cooking, dancing and is a member of the Birmingham community choir .
‘How great are you Jamaicans who are showing in 2008 with perseverance and faith unno mek it a special date, with ya athletic sons and daughters must be proud mothers and fathers see them performance no wonder unnu all can get up and sing. Jamaica that we love and praise to the father above, for many it was frightening to see Bolt sprint like lightning. winning the 200 meter race with a huge grin deh pon him face, the world now tek a different view of Jamaica just as great as others and not a grain of mash up crackers how great you are Jamaicans...’ Read more in next edition.
Mother’s Magazine
Reach your potential customer. Advertise in StreetCred. info@streetcredmagazine.com
ause that’s e floor bec th n o o L Jing else! We love est and noth ng, just b es o d e what sh e don’t si ’t act, pleas lly, do Please don say! Actua ld u o w a’ ag ch you dance as ‘G e like to wat w se au ec b the films f time. y amount o an Idol judge for a length ic g new Amer The stunnin se the show as a platto u scene was bound the music me back to lookco e to sh ’t rm fo my isn y m y m d ind blowwith fire an ? Simply m er ev o as t o before. J-L ing as h hotter than y ct p fa ap in h d e r. Th ing an dy to die fo o b ew n e h th it as w h still again lowing once Floor’, which e mother is g Th n O ts ck, ‘Get Rolla even Electro tra N c o R at ed st w li o y n la k p is even am so you , Birmingh g to und bowin in Rainbow g e under ro th d t o an g y k as n h is fu she w. The track es o o n d t t h u g b ri ll her g Pitbu in y o n an e features th n this one. an ok job o limelight to take the e m co she can as h J-Lo ... we think e a n an ih R away from st stay on th on baby ju m c’ so t looks and it o d those swee s u e iv g d floor an career! x ne for your all will be fi
GRIMEY NEWS
at www.streetcredmagazine.com
GRIMEYNEWS!
Return of the
J-LOCIKS BA N OE TH R! FLOO
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Rule!
‘People have tweeted me and said you help me get through my music and a lot of your tracks I used to make love too. Im bringing that back to the game!’ Gotta say Ja Rule is a big performer and has sold millions of CD’s worldwide and to have him back would be a great thing!
. . . N O S U D FIN
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Kanye
Is it cool tha t Dre is gettin g dissed by 50? Could be a big fall out with 50 Cent and Dre as the ‘i n the club star’ is lookin g to release a d iss record saying how Dre cut him out of the headphone d eal he made with Jimmy Levine. As yo u may know, the Dr has released top quality soun d ing headphones and n ow 50 has dec ided to do his own titled ‘Sle ek by Fifty’. Th ere has been an uproar in the interscop e o ffi made his feel ces. 50 has ings known to his millions of fans on tw itter that he is upset with D Dre. We thin r k it’s a petty beef thoough because Dre and 50 are ti ght and hop this gets sort e ed out.
video to be banned?!
GRIMEY NEWS
s new Kanye released hi f The video for ‘All O na & Lights (Feat. Rihan d by te ec Kid Cudi)’, Dir Wile the legendar y Hyp seems liams. The video highly low budget but fferers dangerous for su video of Epilepsy. The flashcontains more ackBl ing lights than ns and pool Illuminatio rers to may cause suffe music fit. Apparently iderns channels are co video ing banning the risk & as this is a health en rebe it has already uTube. moved from Yo bit too Is that taking it a rely a far? I think so, su fore be severe warning would the video starts suffice?
G TO AN N I M O C É YONC END??!!! JAY Z & BE
Wow, could this be it for the biggest hip hop couple in the world? Word has it Jay Z and Beyoncé are having time out away from each other as they keep on arguing and apparently he has been pushing and shoving her in public. Beyoncé spent Valentines with her friend Kelly Rowland without her wedding ring on, hmmm. Watch this space, could Jay Z, a man at 40, handle his first heartbreak?
Bruno Mars takes C
OKE!
Recently Mr Mars admitted to cok e possession in the courtroom. Wo w, is that what he is taking to get those hig h notes? Bruno has to complete 200 hour community service. Apparently he looked a bit dodgy at his concert afterparty at Gatecrasher recently.
CIARA AND RIHANNA TWITTER WAR!
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It all started when Ciara appeared on ‘The Fashion Police’ with the wonderful Joan Rivers (She was a waitress at The Last Supper). Ciara said that when she last bumped in to Rihanna at a party Rihanna wasn’t ‘the nicest.’ Rihanna got wind of this comment and took to Twitter to retaliate...
Rihanna tweeted “My bad Ci, did I 4get to tip u? howrudeofme.”
GRIMEY NEWS
Ciara wasn’t happy with this response and got all ’Ghetto’ and replied “Trust me Rihanna u don’t want to see me on or off stage” Poor Ci couldn’t even manage to spell Rihanna’s name correctly. So the Barbadian beauty responded again to Ciara “So u Gangsta huh? Haaa. Good luck with booking that stage u speak of.” Ouch! I have no idea why Ciara made such a comment, when you are in the industry a little comment like that is always going to be escalated in to something HUGE. Would Robin go after Batman? Rihanna, obviously here to save the day (Batman would do the same), tried to make up with Ciara by tweeting her again saying “Ciara baby. I love u girl! I’m heartbroken! That’s y I retaliated this way! So sorry! letsmakeup.” Anyone else sense the sarcasm? Then Ciara, wanting to play happy families responded “Rhi u know it’s always been love since day 1! Doing shows/ everything. You threw me off in that party! Apology accepted. Let’s chat in person.” Obviously Ciara wants a picture with Rihanna for a bit of promotion as her record label have let her down majorly with her latest release ‘Basic Instinct’ its not a remake of the Sharon Stone film, it’s Ciara’s 4th studio album. So was all this just a publicity stunt to get Ciara some headlines? What do you think? Words Nicki Kelly
Ciara
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getthelook
HAIR & BEAUTY
by MAC
Primed for Perf ection
Quite Cute
Endless fun... M·A·C owns the primers category. Now we’re taking Prep + Prime further than ever. Use it under, over, during and after makeup application, and marvel at the ease with which it can accept concealer and cooperate with colour. And now, with Prep + Prime Vibrancy Eye, P + P advances eyes and focuses potential. A lightweight, quick fix AND long-term solution for puffy, tired-looking creases and bags that targets the three main causes for dark under eye circles – pigmentation, visibly weakened capillaries and shadowing – while illuminating the eye area with optical effects for instant luminosity. Vibrancy Eye provides pick-me-up power and moisturisation. One step and you’re prepped for makeup magic. A wonderful new shaded highlighter debuts with this collection – Prep + Prime Highlighter is lush and cushiony, yet lightweight – in wonderful hues that provide a sheer wash of colour to highlight, brighten and perfect. The click “pen” allows for exact application. “CUTE!” The most fanciful, fun and flattering compliment a young, modern trendsetter could ever want! Our version is the girliest kind of international glam possible, a style ride that combines postage-stamp-sized puppies with pixie swizzle-stick fashion and butterfly kisses for cute boys and even cuter shoes! Cupcake icing colours, vintage romance, an ATM card with Hello Kitty on it – and a way of life that says “yes!” to everything adorable! Come on; get happy with the multi-culti cutie, from Tokyo to Toronto to Paris with love! Pastel shades for Eye Quads, Lipstick, Plushglass and Nail Lacquer…And, due to popular demand, we’re completely cute-ifying three favourite Lip Pencil shades from last season that will join the fun and frolic. Flash! You’ll ♥ the Mineralize Blush with the sweet heart baked right into it. If it shines, shimmers and pops it’s completely, contagiously, cute! Great news: It’s back, for good…Skinsheen Leg Spray, the long-wear gel/mousse body makeup that sheers on legs, arms, décolletage for a subtle golden glow. Water resistant three times over. Love your Lustre Drops? They’re back too, for that touch of chic luminosity, an ethereal glow wherever applied. Two new golden shades of Mineralize Skinfinish/ Natural plus Mineralize Skinfinish and Bronzing Powders complete the collection, making M·A·C all about onestop Bronzing.
Bronze Everyday
Whether it’s to save money or time, for those of you who have always thought about cutting your hair at home, but worried about getting it wrong, look no further than the evolutionary new Easy Cut from BaByliss for Men. Easy Cut is the new must-have grooming tool to maintain a short hair cut at home. Easy Cut looks different and works differently to traditional hair clippers – with its unique rotary blade technology and surround comb guide it can cut hair in any direction, making it easy to use and get a perfect even finish.
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GET THE LOOK
THE EASY CUT!
This advanced clipper is designed to deliver top performance on short hairstyles, guaranteeing an even cut every time, so you won’t need to visit the barber every couple of weeks to keep your grade 1 or 2 looking right, you can do it yourself – saving you a tidy few quid each year. Easy Cut has a telescopic comb guide with a twist and lock mechanism which means you can cut with confidence, knowing that it will not slip in use. It can be used mains or cordless, so you can clip your hair at your convenience. And its bold ergonomic design means maintaining your style has never been simpler. Plus for general tidying up around the ears, neckline and sideburns, Easy Cut includes a separate precision trimmer so you can have total clipping confidence. £40 RRP.
GET THE LOOK : Couture Curls Soft, careless curls continued to dominate the catwalks throughout Spring-Summer and Autumn-Winter 2010. Models rocked soft glossy waves on the runway at Pucci and Chloe’s SS10 and AW10 fashion week shows, whilst Kenzo and 3.1 Phillip Lim opted for a whimsical, tousled head of hair for their AW10 catwalk shows. Get one step ahead of the fashion pack and recreate the looks with ease with the BaByliss Curling Wand. To achieve the runway’s must-have hair, simply wrap thick sections of hair around the wide base of the BaByliss Curling Wand to achieve loose, glossy waves – the perfect care-free complement to new-season couture.
BaByliss Curling Wand £25 Stockist: 08705 133 191 Press contact: Lucy Armitt or Catherine Havercroft at The Communications Store 0207 938 5047 lucy/catherine@tcs-uk.net
! R E H S U E K I L DRESS
1. Decide whether you want to dress more like Usher when he dresses casual or if you want to dress more formally.
2. Shop Usher's fashion line. The best way to dress like Usher is to buy clothing from the fashion line he designed himself. However, this may be a bit out of your price range. 3. Start with jeans if you're keeping it casual. Wear a vintage t-shirt and sneakers and you'll have completed Usher's everyday fashion look. 4. Go a bit fancier by pairing jeans with a solid colored shirt and a sports jacket. Usher might wear something like this to a more casual awards show, like the MTV Movie Awards. 5. Be more formal with dress pants, a t-shirt or solid colored shirt and a sports jacket. Usher may wear something like this on a talk show appearance. 6. Wear a suit. Usher has described himself as a suit man. He'd most likely wear a nice suit to something like the Grammy's. 7. Accessorise. Wear a watch and some jewellery. Usher's not afraid to be a little flashy. He can even pull off a bow tie. Not many men can look sexy in a bow tie, but Usher can because he's confident. Master Usher's confidence and you can pull off the same look, too.
STARS PROMOTE SAFE SEX! JLS Condom Range - British boy band JLS has teamed with Durex to launch their own range of condoms to promote safe sex. The condoms, aptly called “Just Love Safe brand,” will feature the pop stars' faces on each packet. All the profits from the condoms will go to the JLS Charity Foundation, and from there, the band members will donate to their chosen charities.
Drake Safe Sex - A newcomer in the hip-hop music industry, Drake lends his famous face and celebrity status to star in an advertisement promoting ‘Stay Strapped Condoms’. With hip-hop music playing in the background, he is seen in the ad informing fans of the importance of using protection when having sex.
DRAKE
JLS
12 questions with Zardia - Flavour
of the Month Editor
1.Where do you get your fashion sense? If I like it, I will get it. If I think it fits nice, then im happy. But sometime I think what the hell was you thinking. But im sure we all have those ones..lol
8. Favourite food? My favourite food is Avocado and I love big fat prawns. I do like my vegetables, but they have to steamed, hot! but crunchy. Also like Duck and Fish. 9. What don’t you eat and why? I do not eat Cow Foot, or Liver because it tastes nasty. I don’t like cakes, unless it’s a chocolate cake and hate doughnuts. I really hate milk and custard; I don’t do pudding unless it’s a bowl of fruit with ice cream.
2. If you were to model yourself on a celebrity who would it be? I couldn’t tell you. Bloody hell! That’s a hard question. 3. What do you feel makes you different to other woman? I wouldn’t say I’m different to other women, but I am very independent, I don’t like relying on others, I’ll give anything a go, if it benefits me and my and people closest to me, even if im scared. I would also say I listen and im not judgmental. 4. How important is it to study? It’s very important to study. One should always better ones self. Otherwise you’re standing still. I think its grate to learn new skills and to have goals. Life moves to fast, there is no time for what if. Grab every opportunity with open arms. 5. What are your hobbies? I love dancing with the kids on the
Wii, and getting the highest score... lol. I also love socialising with friends. 6. What is your ideal man, and how would you like him to treat you? My ideal man would be someone that has goals, ambition, supportive, playful and looks after himself. I also would like to be treated with respect and as a equal, and someone that listens and understands me because I am a bit of a crazy one at times..lol 7. What would you like to achieve in the next five years? To be fully qualified in my chosen career path, have my own home, a few holidays a year and still be writing for Street Cred Magazine.
10. What do you like most about being a mother? Being a mother is great because I love to play, I love messing around with my kids and they always come first. Watching them grow up and seeing them change into wonderful children. I think I’m the biggest kid in the house really, and sometimes I get my eldest daughter telling me off. 11. What are your aspirations? To take every opportunity with open arms, to learn and progress in everything I do. I would also love to jump out of a plane once in this life time and bungee jump of a high bridge. Bit of a thrill seeker! 12. What’s the most memorable time in your life? Bringing my two girls safely into the world, and seeing their little faces for the first time.
Melissa-Chantelle Myles
Miss Flavour of the Month Melissa-Chantelle Myles is a new and inspired artist, with the future at her feet, knowing what she wants and where she is going, looking towards her goal for the future. Showing if one door closes another will most defiantly open. Also not to give up on one dream to keep trying know matter how big or small you may think things may be. Melissa came with full Flavour this month and hear is what she had to say. Hello Melissa! When did you first start singing? - I started singing when I was in the school choir aged 13, at first it was just a way of getting out of lessons, but I soon realised that I actually enjoyed doing it. When did you realise you could sing? - I guess the first time I actually realised I could sing to some degree was when I decided to sing at the old people's party held at school. Who was the first person who told you that you could sing? - My mum was the first person to tell me that I could sing, but of course that's my mum so I thought she had to say that. Then there were other people who would tell me the same. What things have you done to promote yourself? - I have a YouTube channel where I put up videos of myself singing, it helps me to get the views of others on my singing and sometimes they're kind enough to comment on my appearance and decor! lol What things am you currently doing? - Currently I am studying an Access HE course; when I have completed, I will hopefully go into university this year where I will be studying Midwifery. What are you’re future plans, where do you see you’re self in the next 5 years? - In the next few years in terms of my singing I would like to be able to have found a good and affordable voice coach, who can help me
with certain aspects of my voice, perhaps do a few songs of my own and generally explored my potential. In terms of my studies I want to have successfully completed my course and be a qualified Midwife. Hopefully by then there will still be enough jobs in the NHS! Who do you look up to in terms of singing? - To be fair, I have never really been able to say that there was one person who I really looked up to. With me, if I like a tune and I feel can sing it then I will try. Having said that, when I first started singing the one person's songs I would practice the most were those of Celine Dion. Do you think it’s important to have a back up plan, when you’re a singer like yourself? - Most definitely! No matter how good you are at singing, you should always have a back up plan. Times change so fast there is never any guarantee, there would be nothing worse than realising that not only have you passed your sell by date, but you also have no other skills to be able have a comfortable life. What would you say to the young people out there that are trying to get noticed? What would be a good tip? - I say never give up, if you feel you truly believe you can make it, there is nothing that can stop you, be persistent because nothing happens before its time. I think another thing would be to keep yourself surround by people who love you, you will need them and their support to help you continue during times you feel like throwing the towel in.
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INTERVIEW
TeedraMoses
Teedra Moses is one of the most slept-on R&B artists IN THE GAME. From the first time I heard her debut album ‘Complex Simplicity’ on a trip to New York in 2004, I knew I was hooked forever. It’s been over seven years since the Lioness released an official album due to the collapse of her record label TVT Records but her fans worldwide have remained patient and loyal thanks in part to the mixtapes she has put out, most recently in February of 2010: the aptly titled: ‘Royal Patience’ which is a beautiful progression from ‘Complex Simplicity’showing a more brave artist that just keeps improving.
am busy! Always busy! But good, I’m blessed.
Teedra’s heartfelt, soulful lyrics have ensured her longevity as a credible artist that doesn’t pander to the industry, she writes, sings and endures…for the people who love her music. As a huge fan, it was an honour to catch up with her about what her plans are for the future and when we can finally expect to hear a new album
J: What’s your label situation at the moment? T: I am indie right now. (The label that Teedra was initially signed to TVT Records collapsed and went bankrupt in 2008). It’s not that I’ve not had interest from major labels or that I don’t want to sign with a major label but this is a very ‘tap-dancing’ industry and I’m not willing to tap-dance for a label, I’ll tap-dance for the people! It’s the people who demand the artist essentially, not the label. I have a lot of people with me, behind me and supporting me and my music. There’s strength in numbers and I want the labels to see that I’m here, and I’m doing this whether you like it
Jess: Hey Teedra, thank you for talking with us! How are you? How’s life? Teedra: hey girl! It’s my pleasure, I
J: So we’ve just had the release of the ‘R U 4 Real’ official video which features on last year’s Royal Patience mixtape. How has it been received in The States? T: Really well, the hits and the feedback have been good. I wanted to show a development from Complex Simplicity but with a similar vibe. This is just a scratch. I can’t put out the music the way I want to, or as often as I want to and it’s irritating for me. I wanted to give people something to show that I’m still here and still making good music. I love the video, it’s a reflection of where my music is going.
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I still plan to release a new mixtape very soon and then get my album out around August. I’m working on feeding the people, the real music lovers with sexy soul music; real singing from a lifestyle artist. J: Will the long-awaited ‘Young Lioness’ get a release? T: The album is complete but the name will change, it will no longer be ‘Young Lioness’, just ‘Lioness’. When I first decided that title I had just released ‘Complex Simplicity’ and I was scared, you know? I’m not scared anymore, and I don’t feel the name is appropriate now. ‘Lioness’ will definitely be released and as I said, we’re aiming for August this year.
J: You mean Jessie J? T: Yeh that’s her! She’s cool! J: I think the reason that so many people have fallen in love with your music is that your lyrics are so REAL and everyone can relate to them, where do you draw your inspiration from? T: I write about whatever I’m feeling in my life. The best artists write about what they know whether it’s through observation or experience. I stick to what it is that I know and just hope that someone else out there is feeling the same.
J: So you’re mother to twin boys (from a previous relationship with rapper RasKas), how do you cope managing being a Mom and an artist? T: The boys are in their early teens now, they love to see how the game goes! They know their job is to get good grades and behave well no matter what I’m doing. I’ve been doing this for nearly ten years, they know the vibe and they know they have to be mature about it, it’s J: I saw your show in London a couple of just me and them and they get that! years ago, you we’re amazing live and I was shocked at how far some UK fans had trav- J: I have to ask because I know all of our male elled to see you perform. Do you have any readers will want to know; are you a single plans to come back to the UK anytime soon? lady? T: Girl, I am totally single! It’s not like T: I REALLY want to! The UK has wonder- ‘woo hoo’ haha! It is what it is. I’ve been blogful music lovers and I felt such a great energy ging about this recently, I’m single but it’s not from the crowd at the last show. I haven’t been an issue. back for so long! Anybody who wants Teedra…obviously there are certain performance I can safely say that this is one lady I will be fees in place but I’m more than willing. I hope following for a very long time, as REAL in to come to the UK before the year is out even person as in lyrics…Thank you Teedra. if not to perform although that’s why I’d really love to come. - Check out Teedra’s official website : www. teedramoses.net J: You have collaborated with some amaz- - Watch the newly released ‘R U 4 Real’ video ing artists already, are there any other art- on Teedra’s official Youtube channel: www. ists you would like to collaborate with in the youtube.com/OfficialTeedraMoses future? T: You know, I don’t go after artists - Follow Teedra on Twitter: www.twitter. or think of anyone in particular. Some of the com/teedramoses most amazing artists are the ones that haven’t made it yet, no-one knows their name. If I Interview by meet an artist or producer that is a creative Jessica Slater person and it happens organically then that’s great and that’s what creates the best collaborations! J: Is there anyone in the UK you’re really feeling right now? T: I’m not too familiar with the UK scene to be honest, although I adore Adele. She is an extremely amazing artist. And there’s a new girl right, with black hair and bangs?
INTERVIEW
or not. If you want to get involved and allow me to do what I want to do as an artist, then yes, we can work together. I do have a label in mind, so we’ll see, but it’s very important to me that I can continue to do me, my way and not become a mould of what a label wants.
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TREY SONGZ
EXCLUSIVE
Sponsored by JC Hair.
FAME FORTUNE SINGLE LIFE
Ok ladies here it is, the true sex symbol of RnB who has fans watching his every move and has woken up the industry showing that it’s cool to be old skool. Hearing Trey’s music is pleasing to the ear, the quality vocal and performance is consistently outstanding.
The after parties were rammed to capacity and the day Trey mentioned he was coming back to the UK in April, the concerts sold out completely.
have what Trey has, and its funny, because Trey admits to having adapted Kelly’s style into his music. This is an interview with a man who is far from a newcomer but still Trey Songz has been an underground growing with four gold LP’s under RnB star for many years. We first saw him his belt. The latest album ‘Passion with thecaine roll hairstyle and wondered Pain Pleasure’ is scorching through the charts. 2010 is when Trey really Trey was born in Virginia, USA, and won- who is this hot kid on the mixtapes? ing the hearts of screaming teenagers and Apart from the fact that this guy is noth- went in with ‘Neighbours Know My Name’, ‘Say Aaah’, Featuring cemented his place as their No.1 bedroom ing short of sexy and phenomenal with his music, 26 year old Tremaine Aldon Fabulous and the current single pin-up poster. For TS it is not safe to ‘Bottoms up’ with a guest appearwalk the streets right now as everywhere Neverson is a very cool intelligent man who is passionate about his career and ance by Nicki Minaj. The main man he goes he seems to cause hysteria. The of RnB music is aiming to be the reason?...Women of all ages are absolutely searching for that special someone to complete package, but can he do it? besotted with this man. Why is this? The share his success with. If you look like smooth chocolate looks? The lyrics in his Keri Hilson you may stand a chance as he Read what he has to say about his new found fame, single life and how songs? What is it that’s got women all over is definitely feeling her for looks. much his fans mean to him. the world falling at his feet? Trey has hundreds of girls following him from his shows to his hotels and In March 2011 Trey Songz supported superstar Ne-Yo and it appears that the people camp outside the clubs just to get majority of the crowd actually came to see a glimpse. Trey has got them hooked! Never has there been this amount of buzz him instead of the headline act. for an RnB star since R Kelly who used to
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EXCLUSIVE
MDG: How you feeling man? Trey Songz: I’m feelin good man, just working. MDG: You are definitely putting in the work, I haven’t seen this craze for a long time in RnB where girls are actually fainting at your shows. How is it that you have this magic touch over your fans? Trey: It was a great show! Birmingham was amazing, the after party at Gatecrasher was phenomenal. The energy there was just amazing, I’ve always loved Birmingham man. MDG: I swear I haven’t seen that kind of response to an artist since Jodeci times. The feeling you bring to the game is that Old skool R Kelly Usher era… Trey: Everything from the interaction, the show you’ve seen yourself how much involved the crowd is and how I try to create that connection. It’s all about that bond and I do everything I possibly can to connect with my fans. I really go in from the Twitters to YouTube the Facebook. I think its really important because at the end of the day the fans are a part of my life. We have a bond between us that is unbreakable.
MDG: You’re a mega RnB star and I can see you becoming a legend especially with the way things are going and I have to say that your writing is phenomenal. How are you finding being so big with all this female attention and being single? Trey: Sometimes it’s a lot to deal with and sometimes I love it to death and sometimes you wish you had a girl to go through it all with, but sometimes you know that you can’t have it all right now because that takes a lot of your time because I am actually sharing myself with the world and she would have to understand that, but overall its definitely a blessing. It’s like I tell you, right now I’m touring with Usher for the first time and I’m walking around thinking not many people know me so I’m going shopping. It starts off I take a couple pictures and then there’s one café where I’m hanging out and then hundreds of girls start crowding the place so it’s a reality check sometimes. I have to know what I’m doing but its such a blessing to be loved. MDG: Bro, you are known all over the world so when you do this tour you better be ready ha ha. [Both laugh] MDG: What type of lady does it for you? Trey: I like Keri Hilson but nothing is going on there. MDG: Hmmm, tell me the names you’ve worked with on this journey? Trey: Aretha Franklin, Fabolous, Gerald Lavert, Patti Labelle, Rick Ross, Jim Jones. I’ve been blessed to work with a lotta people you know, Busta Rhymes and Snoop Dogg too. MDG: So basically you’ve put in the work? Trey: Definitely. MDG: A lot of people think you’ve just come all of a sudden and that you haven’t been in the game that long to get your rewards. Can you tell me a bit about the history? Trey: I’ve been putting out albums from like 17. Starred minor roles in a couple of movies, just really doing my thing. There is a lot similar ways I have to R Kelly, I mean I was pretty much influenced by him and furthermore there is nobody else doing real RnB music. MDG: What was your beef with R Kelly? Trey: Iv’e been a fan as you know but just didn’t feel that he
was connecting today at all and I said it openly that he is like an old man trying to keep current when he doesn’t need to. Its just a disappointment from such a phenomenal artist. MDG: Are you gonna keep to RnB or will you be diverse? Trey: I’ll always be diverse and I will always be RnB. Even though I am the most prolific RnB artist right now as far as commercial success, but I think its cool to make different kinds of music and I think its important as RnB Singers this is all of us , myself to Usher, Chris Brown and Ne-Yo we are responsible for keeping the RnB alive. Ya know I mean with ‘Bottoms up’ featuring Nicki Minaj that is clearly Hip Hop but at the same time you don’t wanna be boring and predictable it’s good to be diverse and have freedom in the music. MDG: I can see you are diverse though I mean at the concert when you dropped Kings of Leon that was unexpected and you did a good job of a massive rock song. Trey: I actually listen to a lot of Kings Of Leon. I listened to a lot of Sting coming up as I’m so into different types of music you wouldn’t believe and I just love the opportunity to open minds. MDG: You ever listen to Bashment? You know like Vybz Kartel? Are you aware of him? Trey: I’m aware that he likes to talk about what he like to talk. It’s very raw and honest and I love that and it brings me back to what I said about freedom, you have to have that in music and that Reggae is an art form where artists can be free to express. Its expanding man, I mean as much as some people think that music is dying although its not what it used to be, its still growing and I think we will see phenomenon in music again in these times. I mean you have artists like Adele that bring hope to music and she’s so not typical and I love that. There is just so many different cultures creating great music right now and it can only live. MDG: I notice you care very much about your community in the states. Trey: Most recently I did something with BET where we went to schools and spoke to the children. It’s different to when your teacher tells you something is wrong but when it comes from a person they look up to they will listen more and its just amazing that so many different
people take heed to what I say, so that for me shows I’m doing my job. If I can influence kids to stay in school and show the importance of education, I’m happy I’m reaching. These are the children that are giving me my blessings and it’s important I let them know that and give back. MDG: What’s the craziest thing you’ve experienced from meeting your fans? Trey: Definitely been a lot of panties on stage. One time actually in Birmingham O2, my first time performing, there was like 20 pairs on stage ha ha. My fans make me who I am and it’s important I let them know what they mean to me. Any chance I get I like to make sure they know that.
Trey Songs will be back in the UK at the end of April. Streetcred will be attending his shows as i know many of you will be Album: ‘Passion Pain and Pleasure’ in stores now.
This interview is by Mark Dwayne MDG and sponsored by JC Hair. Colmore Row, Birmingham.
EXCLUSIVE
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“Inspired by negative society and making a change with her dream.”
INTERVIEW
It’s 7pm, March 9th 2011, The anniversary of the late Notorious B.I.G and I’m in the studio with one of the hottest female MC’s in the Country. It has been a long time coming and genuine excitement from both of us as we know this is an interview that’s been on the cards for many years. The artist I am chilling with is an MC, writer, Street Cred Raver, Mother and genuine fan of hip hop music.
said ‘I’m going Onyx tonight, look how i’ve shaved my head bold like them [laughs]. The main person I thank is my mother as it was her who brought home Scarface the Diary CD.
before the introduction. The next EP is For richer and for poorer ‘vol 1 There’s bashment industry beats and Raekwon, biggie tracks. The album will be ‘No introduction necessary’
MDG: Wow you had a hip hop mommy?? SIC NIS: Indeed she brought home hip hop and up to today she is still into it. MDG: That is crazy, if I played scarface at home those times id be getting told to switch it off. MC There are some people that do hip hop as a hobby Hammer could stay on all day in our household because they simply see the videos, admire the [both laugh]. lifestyle and imitate it. Where Sic Nis Numi is concerned its more than just a hobby for her, music MDG: Your son immolates you still which is unis her way of life. When you think of firing talent usual for a boy to look up to his his mum as a that deserves to be recognised this young hip hop- rapper… SIC NIS: I am amazed by my son till I had to stress comes to mind and believe me she is putting get him on my mix tape the Prequel which is on I Tunes. in the work. Sometimes I hear him spitting and I say where you get those lyrics? and he says I wrote them Mom and he’s Not selling sex and violence like many others who only 13 choose that easy route but giving you her soul and what she feels society really need to hear. Sic Nis has estab- MDG: I think I am actually gonna say you’re a lished herself as one of Birmingham’s prime female MC’s hip hop mommy with a hip hop son who has boasting lyrical skills that can surpass many celebrity a hip hop granny.. think your making history acts. Watching this act perform is quite simply a mind here [both laugh] SIC NIS: But so many artists at that blowing experience. What you see is surely what you time really did inspire me Nas Method Man but when I get, a non conforming bold lyrical artist with a sound heard biggie that was it. that sends chills through your body. Sic’s flow is distinctive and respected highly by even the hardcore male MDG: Really? Biggie played a big part? SIC NIS: mc’s in the game. Of course I aint going to lie i’ve even adapted elements of his flow in my music that’s how much I loved him. It is my pleasure to give an insight into the lady who was inspired to be a hip hop MC by her mother who MDG: Why love biggie so much? SIC NIS: He introduced her to the great Scarface ‘Diary’ album. We showed you could be intelligent, tell a great story and talk music, the love of Notorious BIG, politics, being a have you in the zone as he really captured the imagimother of a talented 13 year old son and why an abu- nation and brought a new feel to the game. When he sive relationship inspired her to achieve her status. Sic died it really affected me and he showed you could Nis feels it’s very important to deliver positive messages have the amazing swagger in music. So many reasons to today’s music buying music public. Here is an exclu- why I just fell in love with hip hop. I member my sister sive first time interview with the charismatic joyful and and my friend had our little salt n peppa crew and we youthful DIVA of Salivaville Music Group. be on Newton place rapping on the side roads everyday. I was shy at first but my friend Tara got it out of MDG: Tell me about SIC NIS, where did the rapping me. I remember going to Oxygen rooms and there was come from? SIC NIS: I like to call myself a writer because nuff man mcing, names like Badness and Devil Man I have always written poetry and its funny, because when peeps I listened too on radio and Tara says ‘give this girl I was younger at school I would think I was Whitney Hou- the mic she can spit’ and when they heard me I got so ston and be singing in the playground, Songs like saving all many pull ups It was shortly after that I was introduced my love [ha] but it was when Mariah Carey came out I was to Major of Vomit productions and he really helped blown away by her writing and that just made me want to nurture my sound and bring the best out of me. do this more. When it came to hip hop I say Wu Tang made me feel at home. MDG: Must feel good to get respect from the guy’s right? SIC NIS: Yeh it is. MDG: So you went from loving Sweet Mariah to rugged Wutang? SIC NIS: I loved the two but it was hearing MDG: Any female influences in hip hop? SIC NIS: Wutang on MTV Raps and the Fushnickens I was definitely Of course there is Queen Latifah, Lil Kim, Salt n Peppa, involved. I became inspired and I was intrigued by the MC Lyte ,Rage, Rah Digga and oh gosh Lauren Hill… wordplay and everything. its funny I remember dating Cyril that album!!!! [She gets emotional] Regis son and I was at their house and on Sky a hip hop track called I live for the funk was on and Cyril knew all the MDG: So where did the name SIC NIS come words and I couldn’t believe how he was into the rapping from? SIC NIS: I be in the studio and every bar I would so much. drop and up to this day people just keep saying that’s sick that’s sick so I took it and it means Succeeding MDG: So that was all apart of the progression of you impossible circumstances needs intellectual strength. getting into hip hop hearing your elders being into it? SIC NIS: Definitely, I started to become it and dressing MDG: What’s the dream? SIC NIS My dream is to be hip hop with the click suits and all that. I remember know- a successful writer. Get my music mainstream.. I have ing all the words to Onyx and never knew what they looked a mixtape called The Prequel which is the introduction like until I saw my friend the day they had a concert and he
MDG: Topics on your album? SIC NIS: I like to bring a message in my music. I have a track called Note to self which is deep and its about me being in an abusive relationship. The song is about if I had spoken to myself then this is what I would have said. I also have a blog called Note to self blogspot.com/sicnis Justice Malik Amnesia MDG tantrum scorcher Ital MDR H Menace from Harlem UGK all featuring on my cd’s. MDG: So are you on the independent route or is the aim to get signed by a major? SIC NIS: If Jay Z came to me now I would say I’m not looking to get raped by any contract I am me and I want you to buy into that. It’s important that I write and have my own input in my career. I want to be invested in either you back me cause you know I’m going to be a hit or forget it because I’m not going to be moulded into the next Rihanna or Nicky Minarj. When you see the certain females there is a certain way they make you .Not saying I don’t dress sexy but there’s a limit and my music is what I want people to by into. So I’m not havin a boob job I like my ass im not losing weight that’s what it is!!! MDG: You enjoying the journey? SIC NIS: This is the best bit of course I love meeting people on the way and even admired you as a name from brum you know I used to be that young girl that went to the streetcred parties and won miss streetcred lol I love the whole journey seeing you was inspiring couse you didn’t care you said this is what you love and went for it. [Mark gets embarrassed on compliments] MDG: What is Major the producer to you? SIC NIS Major is like Motown slash aftermath Badboy all in one from Birmingham Hockley the studio I go too. Everybody who’s anybody who rolls through. They have started a big thing called Saliva Ville which has a catalogue of artists and are shopping around deals so far loads of interest in the states for our music. MDG: What’s a good memorable performance for you? SIC NIS: I was in a play at the drum called a Caribbean Christmas which was 6 nights. I played a Jamaican with a pink weave, it was our take on the Christmas story where Jesus got kidnapped . MDG: So ultimately what are you about? SIC NIS: I’m about social awareness because people are walking round with their eyes wide shut. We got kids, if I got a child my family got a child, my friends got a child an so on so you have to represent and the way things are going now its absolutely disgusting. If I can change just one persons mindset about how bad they are, my job is done. I just want to convince certain people to wake the hell up and see what’s in front of you then I know I have reached and that person will pass on the knowledge . I have to thank God, my son, Major for the beats and being a mate. MDR Paradox Tara Charlene my sister Anisha Sophie everybody who knows I check for and even the negative people I check for them too because its all apart of the journey.
INTERVIEW
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SICNIS
SIC NIS “If Jay Z came to me now I would say I’m not looking to get raped by any contract I am me and I want you to buy into that.“
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