Expression – Inspiration – Outreach Issue
Bicycle Club
Q&A w/ McSteezy
Rinnegan’s ‘Tips to Avoid the Domino Effect’ and what it does to your mix…
About This Issue ThaWilsonBlock Magazine Issue25 is a big deal to us. With our friends over at The House of Printing, Inc., we are pleased to release the 25th edition of our legacy. In this issue, we featured the MoM Ridaz bicycle club based in Echo Park. We met them at The Bike Oven in Northeast Los Angeles for an exclusive photo shoot and interview with each member. The MoM Ridaz are and have been heavily invested in their community and you can meet each one who was in attendance in this issue. Inside also includes an exclusive interview with Tacoma, WA artist Watchyatone, Q&A with McSteezy, Scribes One from Seattle album review, and Rinnegan’s ‘Tips to Avoid the Domino Effect’ and what it does to your mix, a little something for the music producers and audio engineers. This issue also features our top Instagram picks of the month, how local artists have gained exposure through community outreach, and why former foster youth are seeking art-based scholarships as an alternative career path. We even took our table of contents a little more seriously in this issue . All the more reason for you to check this issue out on thawilsonblock.com and tell your friends
Mistah Wilson Publisher of ThaWilsonBlock Magazine
thawilsonblock.com
Printing Sponsored by:
All Sponsorships come with advertisements. Sizes and prices are based on sponsorship package. Order deadlines are the 7th of each month.
Postcard Sponsors 10,000 4x6 Full Color Postcards w/ Your Business Listing & Logo + Distribution
Table of Contents Sponsor Your Business-themed duo page Table of Contents w/ website, phone, & email listing
Also Comes With‌ 1 Full Page Ad inside ThaWilsonBlock Magazine for duration of sponsorship
Call (626)817-6978 Today! thawilsonMAG@gmail.com
Where is Phil Phree? Missing Since: Fall 2014 Last Seen: In Altadena, CA. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Phil Phree, please encourage him to come back to the Pasadena Music Scene. We miss him!
Table of Contents Q&A w/ McSteezy
26
Cover Story……….Page15 The Pasadena Music Scene follow up with Pasadena artist McSteezy as he shares his love for rapping & skateboarding.
15 Local Artists leverage exposure through participation in community outreach……….Page 3 Former Foster Youth Seeks Art-Based Alternative Career Path……….Page 3
McSteezy Interview……….Page 7 exposure through Local Artists leverage participation in community outreach… Rinnegan’s ‘Tips to Avoiding the Domino Effect’ and what it does to your mix…
19
17
Table of Contents Cover Story
MoM
Ridaz
36
ThaWilsonBlock interviews members of one of LA’s coolest bicycle clubs: the MoM Ridaz
SCRIBES ONE album review by Mistah Wilson Tacoma, WA artist Watchyatone talks to ThaWilsonBlock about Pursuing Music, Silk Road, and his reaction to Seahawk’s loss in Super Bowl 49
Former Foster Youth seek Art Scholarships as alternative career path 10 Things Local Artists Should Consider for Success By Dominic Poole
23 18
12 30
Our Top Instagram Picks
33rd Annual Black History Parade & Festival Saturday February 21st, 2015 @ Jackie Robinson Park (Pasadena)
Marcus (left) with friend (center) and Bing Bing (right). Marcus is the first ever to become a 2yr subscriber Of ThaWilsonBlock Magazine. He’s been a longtime supporter of the local arts.
33rd Annual Black History Parade & Festival Saturday February 21st, 2015 @ Jackie Robinson Park (Pasadena)
Music Producer JDM (left), Bing Bing (center), and Azo (right) come together for collab performance at Pasadena’s 33rd Annual Black History Parade & Festival
“sleepwalk” Album Review by Mistah Wilson Seattle rapper Scribes One’s debut project Sleepwalk is a sure classic album that every Hip Hop fanatic oughta have in their collection. With features by Macklemore and Philharmonic, this 12-cut project represents the Seattle rap scene at it’s finest. The entire album has a raw, authentic Hip Hop flavor that we’ve all grown to love. Our recommended tracks are “Soully” and “Radio Ho”, however, the whole album knocks from start to finish.
Martin Luther King March “Unity & Peace” Walk 21mile Walk to Help End Gang Violence for the Next Generation 1/19/14
Local Artists leverage exposure through participation in community outreach “It’s still all about the performance,” says Gary Moody, President of the NAACP Pasadena Branch and longtime artist. For decades, artists have taken the traditional approach of doing shows to gain exposure. But, artists on Pasadena’s music scene seem to be trying a new angle. Since 2013, there has been a spike in community outreach participation from local artists in Pasadena, CA. “If we just booked shows and did all the typical things artists do to get themselves out there, we’d have to wait in line for every next person whose worked just a little harder than us,” says Bing Bing. “It’s time we come together and advocate for real-world causes that effect people in our communities and around the world. In 2013, Bing Bing led several extreme-distance walks to advocate for everyday causes like Breast Cancer, Ending Gang Violence for the next generation, and even to unite the local music scene. When you look back on the things these young artists have done over the past couple of years, it’s admirable. It is clear that these artists have been motivated by the cause alone and have not yet been sponsored for any of their efforts. Just this year in 2015, Bing Bing led a peace walk demonstration 42 miles from Pasadena to Leimert Park on a tailored route to honor Jackie Robinson. They want to change Washington Blvd in Pasadena to the first ever Robinson Blvd. It’ll be interesting to see what these artists do next. Stay tuned…
10 Things Local Artists Should Consider for Success By Dominic Poole 1.
Learn the business through researching industry standards and ethics on copyright infringement. 2. Put a management team together, but still learn the roles of the people who surround you. You don’t want anyone to know more than you in business, get your knowledge. 3. Identify your brand and service requests and create a manageable advertising campaign for it. Note: know why your brand is an advantage to those who receive it. 4. Know the demographics of your target audience. Go to the places where these people are and engage your time to connect with them first…Note: Take the initiative to promote who you are and why you’re there, they can only respect where you’re coming from. 5. Learn to step out of your comfort zone and network in different areas around different people of race, interest, and social background. Note: it will help you in the long run. The things that seem so rare end up being your biggest benefit. 6. Understand that you are not selling yourself when you self-promote, you’re just doing what you feel is right, so that’s all you need at the end of the day. 7. Get involved with your community to any extent. Don’t worry about not having the resources to give back just give them some of your time. In most cases that becomes far more valuable when they see you on the big stage one day. 8. Apply everything you learn and connect every contact you meet with significant value to your network and start cultivating business on your own. 9. Learn to manage your time and finances so that you can stay proactive in this very competitive industry. 10. Never underestimate or offend yourself. You are a big deal with real goals and aspirations just like anyone else in any other field. Optimism is the key to opportunity. Believe it.
Rinnegan’s
Tips to Avoiding the Domino Effect And what it does to your mix…
THREE BASIC RULES I USE TO AVOID THE DOMINO EFFECT IN A MIX 1. first things first Look into your monitoring First rule: big decisions require small speakers, small decisions require big speakers. Especially when your room is untreated, there’s no point to use huge monitors with massive low-end. Instead, mix through a smaller window and make decisions as if you were walking by. Sounds cryptic? Here’s all you need to know. Treat your room. Less than $300 can make a huge difference for your mix room. Here’s what to do. Know the musical context of your low end Look at Kick and Bass in a musical context, and you’ll have a better chance of organically sorting out your low-end. If the fundamental frequency of your Kick corresponds with the song key, and none of the lowest bass-notes are out of hand dynamically, things are a lot more likely coming together, as opposed to doing some random EQing in the low-end. Here are two examples of how to look into this: (EXAMPLE 1 + EXAMPLE 2)
2. The bottom-up approach. Uh-oh, I’m hitting you with another fancy term… …well not really fancy, as in this case bottom-up approach applied to mixing can be taken very literal. Because low frequencies (= bottom) have a lot more physical energy than mids or highs, we always take care of them first. The Bottom-up approach in EQing Get the lower frequencies of each sound right before you shape mids and highs. Look at each sound consisting of a tone and a noise component. As a priority, remove unwanted low-end rumble first, then make sure to get the TONE right. The TONE consists of the fundamental notes and 1st harmonics of each sound – make sure it’s round, well-balanced and NOT overly resonant. Once you got the TONE right, look at the balance of tone and noise in each sound. This can be as simple as a high shelf EQ above 3K, adding frequencies if you want more sizzle in a synth, more fret-noises in a guitar, or more click in a kick drum. The Bottom-up approach in Compression The meters in your DAW can fool you. Spikes on Peak Meters are mostly caused by High Frequencies, and the first impulse would be to apply compression or limiting to get a more controlled sound by reducing those. NOT REALLY… – reducing or removing peaks using a superfast compressor or brick wall limiter at this stage won’t give you a very musical result. In reality, the loudness (= RMS level) of your signal is a lot more affected by the lower frequencies in your signal. Unless your dealing with drums or percussion, the first compressor in your plug-in or effect-chain needs to be a slower, more musical compressor. More musical meaning with a slow attack time, a low compression ratio, high threshold, and many times, a compressor that adds tone via harmonical distortion which makes your low-end more perceptible on smaller speakers. (more on compression and harmonics HERE) The bottom-up approach in Gain Staging .
Rinnegan’s
Tips to Avoiding the Domino Effect And what it does to your mix…
3. Installing handles for the core-parameters of each track/instrument The notion that you can just set and forget a sound while you’re mixing, is a misconception. Take a kick drum for example, you will never be able to determine the final amount of low-end in the kick without the context of the bass, and of course your mix-bus and mastering-chain. On some mixes the kick already comes with a lot of low-end, on others it’s slim but well-balanced with the bass, and you dial in the final amount of low-end with a Pultec on our mix-bus. Let’s not forget why a mastering-guru like Brian Gardner has the nickname „Big Bass“ – if your mix is well-balanced and dynamic, your mastering engineer has a much better chance to give you the maximum low-end energy as opposed to you boosting your kick at the start of your mix, and slamming 0dB on the digital meters right away. But how do you control these things throughout the different stages of your mix? Here’s where the „handles“ come into play. Let’s stay with the example of the Kick. The basic handles would be: 1. a roll-off for unwanted subsonic energy (between 0 and 60 Hz) 2. a bell curve EQ on your exact fundamental tone of your kick (between 40 and 70 Hz) 3. a bell curve EQ on the 1st harmonic aka pressure point of your kick (an octave up from the fundamental = between 80 and 140 Hz) 4. a shelf EQ for anything higher than 300Hz 5. a transient shaper/designer to control the level of the initial transient aka „click“ of your kick Installing these handles doesn’t mean that you boost or cut anything right away, BUT identifying these frequencies and setting them will allow you to have FULL CONTROL over your Kick throughout the entire mixing process and to deal with the balance IF and WHEN it comes up. Towards the end of your mix, you might find that you need to cut a bit of the fundamental to make space for your bass, and to boost the first harmonic to give it more punch. If you use a final mix bus EQ to give your entire mix more „oomph“, you will very likely need to reduce the fundamental tone, to have enough leeway for the bass-boost. The concept of handles applies to any sound in your mix, but the type of parameters are obviously different depending on the source. Just to give you another example, the following are the most useful handles on a lead-vocal: LEAD VOCAL handles: 1. sibilance: a de-esser to reduce it if necessary 2. weight and warmth: a wide bell EQ around the fundamental notes of the lead vocal 3. presence: various EQs around the mids, can range between 1 – 8k 4. attitude: a compressor that keeps the lead vocal upfront The point of installing handles on your source material is that they will be there when you need them. At any stage of your mixing process you have the tools at hand to re-balance all tonal and dynamic aspects of your mix. These are often subtle changes, but the reason we need access to them ALL THE TIME, NOT JUST when an issue comes up, is to avoid what I Call the Domino Effect.
Random Faces of Pasadena’s Music Scene
“From a Local Artist’s Perspective” w/ Tha Real Emani
With Kendrick Lamar's album release looming on the horizon and the possibility of seeing a new Kanye album in the first quarter, I'm starting to wonder if surprise album releases are the way to go for artists in 2015. Though a large amount of steady promotion can hype up an album and create anticipation amongst fans, it can conversely create expectations that artists can't live up to. In a day and age where artists are almost required to be completely transparent through interviews, video blogs and constant input into social media, the album and the album release seem to be the last frontier where an artist can keep a sense of mystique, leaving room for fans to speculate. I welcome this change in the paradigm of release dates. I appreciate the mystery that these unconventionally promoted albums have brought to the table. Without everything in an artist's life and creative process being dictated to us, it leaves room to fill in the blanks; room to self project, room to dream and imagine what we might make if the spotlight were on us and the world was watching… On another note… A lot of artists get upset when producers sell the beats that they gave them for free. They feel betrayed because they have a certain sense of ownership. But lets put this into perspective really quick: the artist hasn't paid the producer, is likely doing little to promote or monetize the track they did with the 'free' beat, and is upset that the producer is doing something to get paid. So basically, someone looked out for you and you don't want to see them eat? The problem arises because a difference in goals; the producer is trying to make a living from their music and that type of artist is a hobbyist, they want the perks that come with being a serious, professional artist but don't want to put forth the effort, time and resources needed to have any real success with their music. This type of artist tries to trade favors for goods and services and although that is perfectly acceptable, the 'favors' they offer are usually unhelpful, unneeded or undeliverable (by them) So what does this all mean? No, I’m not attacking anyone. I genuinely believe that this is all a learning experience and those who know better do better. That said, you show that you value someone and their time, effort and talent by paying them, that payment doesn't have to always be cash but it has to be something that they value. You don't go into a grocery store, get to the check out and offer to pay for your groceries with a hot 16 and a promise to 'promote' your store. And if the shoe was on the opposite foot, you certainly wouldn't appreciate if people offered to pay for your album/music in struggle verses and 'promotion' Too many artists now a days have NO plan to monetize their work. They release free project on top of free project as a form of 'promotion' but what is the promotion for? What is promotion if you don't have a plan to sell anything? Going back to the store analogy, there are free samples at stores because they want you to BUY their product. And even then, the free sample is rarely ever more than a SAMPLE of what the full product is, not the full version of the actual product What if I told you that you don't have to make everything 'free' to build an audience and make money? What if I told you that 'free' can sometimes get in the way of your opportunity to make money? Value your talents and art and others will to, sell yourself short and others looking in will do the same. Free music is a tool and like any tool it has its application, there’s a time and place for its use. You don't use a shotgun to kill a fly, you don't use a mix tape to be seen as a professional when you're a new comer, you don't use free music as a promotional tool when you don't have shows, merch and other projects to sell (i.e. things to promote) Not making money from your music doesn't make you more artistic or more noble, it makes you broke. You can self express and be true to who you are and make money off that, its not about pigeon holing yourself into what the industry deems 'standard' or 'ordinary' or 'run of the mill', its about finding your lane, your niche and catering to it. Last store analogy; when a store sells out, that’s a good thing not a compromise. Sell yourself but stay yourself. Treat others in the way you'd like to be treated. Show others you value them in order to create value in yourself.
Former Foster Youth seek ArtBased Scholarships as Alternative Career Path These days, there are more resources available for foster youth than ever before. Housing, Education, and even Job Readiness training programs have been provided for organizations across the board offering residential and mental health treatment to foster youth. However, there is still a significant void that if filled, can effectively change the statistics of our young orphaned children transitioning into adulthood. While there are resources for foster youth to aid them on their independent living journey, no organization in the Pasadena area offers art-based scholarships as an alternative career path or small business startup funds for former foster youth. Because business is such an integrated part of society, it’s only right that foster youth not only be informed of their options, but to also gain access to tools that will help them along the way. Most of these youth lack mentors and positive influential figures let alone parents. There is no crutch for them. It’s society’s responsibility to assure that our children are properly taken care of and provided for. No kid shall be left behind. And with that comes understanding that academics simply don’t work for EVERYBODY. Some of us need alternatives. If we can fill this gap, we can place the responsibility back in the hands of our former foster youth. Where they go is completely up to them. We just want them to have as many options as possible. We want to give them a REASON to succeed, and why they should. Because what’s life if we can’t do what we love to do AND get paid for it. Pay attention to the children.
“One thing I get a lot after a set is people walking up to me saying that they didn’t expect me to rap at first by looking at me. I need to let people know I’m really out here putting in work.”
-McSteezy
Mistah Wilson: Yo, McSteezy! It’s good to have you back with us here on the Pasadena Music Scene. What’s been good wit cha? McSteezy: Thanks man it’s good to be back! Well lately, I’ve just been writing new tracks for my next project and working as a manager at a McDonald’s by my house. Oh and skateboarding of course! Tzzaaaaah!
Mistah Wilson: No doubt! Gotta stay on that Boss tip, feel me? Ok, yo, What do you love more: Rapping or Skateboarding (and you can only choose one)? McSteezy: Damn, I can’t even answer that question right now. I’m only getting better at both skateboarding and rapping.. Although I would have to say rapping hurts a lot less!
Mistah Wilson: Lol no doubt I can definitely agree with that! Have you hit up any skate parks? If so, which one was your favorite? McSteezy: I’m usually at Bonita skate park which is in Arcadia. I also go to other ones all around Los Angeles. There’s a lot of them!
Mistah Wilson: One thing we respect about you, man is that you stay on tha scene. Are you technically a Glendale artist or can we identify you as a Pasadena artist? McSteezy: I’ve spent about the same amount of time in both cities. I’m living in Glendale at the moment but I would have to say I have a bigger crowd in Pasadena. Mistah Wilson: Right on! So tell me, who are 5 of the best rappers out in the game right now? McSteezy: Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of music by J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller, Drake, and Nipsey Hussle. It’s kind of hard to put them in an order because they all have been dropping music that I bump.
Mistah Wilson: Tell us a little about your performance with Blu over @ The Terrace. It’s good to see cats show love to our local artists, ya know. What was it like meeting him? McSteezy: I’ve opened up for Blu twice at The Terrace which is actually one of my favorite places to perform at. The second time opening up for him I was the only other emcee that night and he came late so I ended up with a much longer set which was dope! It’s always cool to see an artist LIVE that I enjoy listening to.
Mistah Wilson: What has been the most challenging thing for you when trying to make it as a rapper? McSteezy: Probably the most challenging thing is letting the people know that I can rap whether it was a written or a freestyle. One thing I get a lot after a set is people walking up to me saying that they didn’t expect me to rap at first by looking at me. I need to let people know I’m really out here putting in work. Mistah Wilson: Word. You ain’t even gotta tell us, we’ve been watching you for years. What are some positives you’ve experienced along the journey? McSteezy: Well, one thing I like is finding out about new artists and since I started rapping I’ve met a lot of new friends and other artists that have introduced me to new music which is always good.
Mistah Wilson: What is your definition of success? McSteezy: I would have to say success is when you’ve worked hard to put yourself in a position where you can just kick back and live comfortably doing what you want when you want. Mistah Wilson: Yo, McSteezy thanks for coming thru for this exclusive interview with ThaWilsonBlock for tha Pasadena Music Scene. It’s been great. Got shout outs, drop em! McSteezy: Thanks for having me! Shout out to everyone over at the Pasadena Music Scene, my dude EJ over at top notch recordings! Gotta shout out my family at home and the fam out in Guatemala! My boy Kid Legend for letting me record at the dungeon where it all started. And all the people that supported me and everybody else that knows Steezy Does It!
Tacoma, WA artist Watchayatone Exclusive Interview w/ ThaWilsonBlock “ I feel like music is always gonna change with each generation so it can never really die but it will take some real talented artists to bring that real feel back. You know that music that help you get through life the game needs that back.�
-Watchyatone
@Watchyatone
Mistah Wilson: Yo, Watchaytone! Glad to have you here with us for this exclusive interview with ThaWilsonBlock. How ya’ been? Watchyatone: I’ve been good just plotting and planning trying to stay ahead Mistah Wilson: Now, before we go any further, can you give us a quick background on yourself? Watchyatone: I’ve been doing music since 9, and haven’t really stopped since. I have 2 daughters and twin boys. I tried the college thing but realized it wasn’t really for me so I just started to put all my free time into music. Mistah Wilson: How is life growing up in Tacoma, Washington? Watchyatone: Tacoma is a pretty diverse place to grow up in, I just happen to grow up where if you ain’t doing anything positive then you’re bound to end up doing negative shit. I’ve done my fair share, wont go into detail but lets just say I’m happy to be here. Mistah Wilson: What are your views on the current state of the local music scene not just in Tacoma, but the Pacific Northwest? Watchyatone: My views on the current state are kinda blurry because I like to base everything I do off of a global standpoint instead of focusing and competing locally. But the current state in general I feel like a lot of artists are scared to create a new sound so they just do what they hear on the radio. Also I feel like the times of blaming the radio for not playing local artist will come to an end soon due to all the new avenues that artist can gain exposure through.
Mistah Wilson: We heard about your appearance on America’s Got Talent. What led you to get involved? Watchyatone: I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and showcase my talent to a panel of judges that can possible change my life.
Mistah Wilson: Got any upcoming performances set? Watchyatone: Yea I got a couple. March 10th in Kent, a few in April in the works dates not set yet. Ill have a release party sometime around April 20th. O yea and hopefully Americas got talent will give me that call back.
Mistah Wilson: Are you currently independent or do you have management? Watchyatone: I’ve had my fair share of experiences with good management and bad management so right now I’m independent and manage myself.
Mistah Wilson: So, let’s talk a little about Silk Road Life. What’s the story behind the brand? Watchyatone: Well first and foremost silk road was never really planned it just came to be due to life circumstance we all ended up here. We wanted to do for ourselves and make a powerhouse so we didn’t have to depend on anyone but ourselves for any and everything. As of now you can go to www.silkroadlife.com to see what’s going on currently and have up to date information on shows and battles.
Mistah Wilson: Tell me a little about some of your fellow artists on Silk Road Entertainment… Watchyatone: Starr Bars for days and creative as hell. Stuey got that glow from beats to the flow I'm proud as hell to see him make it to the SMACK/URLTV Proving grounds and catch that body. Choze is a beast he got what the games been missing. Willie Bravo is dope he finally let his artist out the bag so just watch him work. Vett got that straight up street music but its not like anything you’ve heard before. Jonny Stone is one of the most brilliant song writers I’ve ever met. And as of now Lunes only is pursuing his battling career but he definitely got some unreleased heat sittin. Mane can paint a picture with words and make you feel like you’re right there with him.
Mistah Wilson: That “Get On Up” snippet is hot! You gon’ lace us with the full version anytime soon? Watchyatone: I do want to give it to yall soon matter of fact since you asked ima release it very soon I just threw the snippet out there to see what the response would be but I got the formula down for the video so stay tuned…
Mistah Wilson: If I had the opportunity to download just one mixtape off Silk Road Life website, which one would you recommend and why? Watchyatone: Oh that’s easy download that New World Order that’s gone feed my kids lol but naw really if you want good music anything we got o is audio dope
Mistah Wilson: What current & upcoming projects are on the forefront of the movement right now? Watchyatone: We got Daily Bread Volume 2 dropping April 20th, Both Sides Of the Coin some time this summer, Blood is thicker than water in August, & 1 man gang all this year.
Mistah Wilson: What message are you trying to send through your music & brand? Watchyatone: We bringing the real back and were pushing a hard line. We have all kinds of music but most importantly there is always a heavy message behind it. This is the new wave We are here to create the blueprint. Mistah Wilson: This may be a general & cliché question, but do you believe Hip Hop is dead? Why or why not? Watchyatone: It was on life support but its slowly coming back to life. I feel like music is always gonna change with each generation so it can never really die but it will take some real talented artists to bring that real feel back. You know that music that help you get through life the game needs that back. Mistah Wilson: What was your initial reaction to the Seattle Seahawk's final play in Super bowl 49 that cost them the game? Watchyatone: Man I cant believe you asked that but my first reaction was is this even real life? I couldn’t fathom why they didn’t give the ball to money lynch.
Mistah Wilson: How did you feel when the Seattle Supersonics switched up? Watchyatone: I hate basketball now lol I still love the sport but it will never be the same for me I root for the blazers now but only by default Mistah Wilson: Are you a Mariners fan? Watchyatone: I’m not into baseball like that but yea the mariners are my favorite baseball team.
Mistah Wilson: When writing new songs, where do you pull your inspiration from? Watchyatone: From my life experiences and the people all around me. If I come into contact with you, you might be in a song.
Mistah Wilson: Who are some of your musical influences that motivated you to become the artist you are today? Watchyatone: 2pac,common,nas,,Snoop,Ludacris but let me stop I could go on and on. Mistah Wilson: Thanks for coming through for this exclusive interview with ThaWilsonBlock, Watchyatone. It was awesome. Hopefully one day soon we can fly you down to Pasadena, CA for a performance. If you have any shout outs, let’s hear em… Watchyatone: Shout out to my team and every one of my listeners.
MoM
Cover Story
@ The Bike Oven 3706 N. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90065
Louisiana & Bing Bing
Background I’m Drooby. I founded the MoM Ridaz.
Why You Joined See question 1
How Long? Almost 8 years now.
Favorite Places to Ride
I love riding wherever I might get lost. Like to find new adventure and all.
Upcoming Events O.B.C in April
Inspiration Realizing that I can get myself anywhere I want by my own power. It is a very selfempowering feeling.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? It is where I have made my mark on history. So very.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Love. Strength. Unity. Great family. And your MoM!
Shout Outs I’d like to thank all the MoM Ridaz for continuing on our great legacy.
Background Touring Chapter leader, visited 36 states by bike, work at a grocery store and intern as a youth outreach worker. From the South but Raised West Coast.
Why You Joined I was a runaway at 14 selling candy on the train. The MoM Ridaz took me in as if I was one of their own. They were the first ones to treat me like a human, not just some unruly kid. And they showed me what community and friendship is about.
How Long? Almost 7 awesome, lifechanging years! OG MoMz
Favorite Places to Ride Hollywood, Downtown, Pasadena, anywhere my bike takes me. Even Portland and Austin Texas!
Upcoming Events CivicLAvia on the 22nd, Midnight Ridazz 2nd Friday ride, Poppycock on Thursdays at Hollywood and Vermont. There are rides everyday on midnightridazz.com
Inspiration Knowing I have a positive impact on the Earth, my friends, the will to stay healthy, and knowing my riding inspires others.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? As important as my life. If we don’t give to our communities, then how can there be community? Community is based on the giving and exchanging of things, whether tangible or intangible.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Sock the homeless, our annual charity ride where we give warm clothing and sandwiches to the houseless; friends, once a MoM, always a MoM. Even if I don’t see the MoMz for a year, once I do pop back up, they always are there for another round of fun and great times!; open minded. MoMz are understanding and all inclusive.. 4thly, community, MoMz always keep a community-minded view, and help out in our bike community through volunteering at The Bike Oven and as intersection Route Angels for CicLAvia. Finally, MoMz are awesome because no one is fake and we keep it real. I think that makes it greatest of all.
Shout Outs RIP EddieBoyInLA! And Tomatoes, and Monster! NightOwls! Midnight Ridazz! Ride safe, get a helmet, and lights save lives. Thanks to all that came out and made this interview possible!
Background Hi! My name is William Ayala aka RAIDER. I was born and raised in Echo Park where MoM Ridaz kick it at.
Why You Joined I started riding my bike to stay away from the hood recruiting me in to gang banging. So I hopped on a bike and met the MoM Ridaz. Some I knew from high school and the rest were new to me but cool as f***. Chill potheads chilling & blazing at Echo Park that was two blocks from my house. I was lucky.
How Long? I’ve been part of MoM Ridaz for 6 years now.
Favorite Places to Ride Of course, I love to ride in Echo Park. Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica that’s one hour and a half from Echo Park.
Upcoming Events
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you?
The next upcoming event I will be going to is CicLAvia to volunteer .
Inspiration I ride to make my day better. Release stress and have fun.
It’s good to go out and help the community. I will be volunteering at the next CicLAvia.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Moms are cool, fun, nice. We ride bikes, are pot heads, and know how to party.
Shout Outs Thanks for choosing the club, bro! Hope we can have a sesh soon. Thanks,. Peace & love, homie!
Favorite Places to Ride Background Born & raised in Echo Park. Aspiring artist-graphic junkie. Mexican woman 3rd of 5 sisters and couldn’t ask for it any other way.
Top 3 Favorites! That time we did the LA to Santa Barbara Century for my Birthday. Most beautiful place I’ve been. Number deux- Devils Dam in Pasadena and under the Xst Bridge in LA River (can’t let all the secrets out) and of course Echo Park
Why You Joined Bikes, man! Love riding with them! But you know it’s more than that. These people continue to test and push me to keep growing, discovering, and making myself a more humble person (btw my goal in life)
Upcoming Events OBC (Outsiders Bike Club) Convention in Vegas! And hoping to see MOM Century #4 Soon.
How Long? Psshh Since the day I was born! Nah, I’ve been a MOM for a short year and a half or so but I’ve been riding with my peoples for close to 6 years now!
Inspiration The Open Road
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Echo Park has really transformed since I grew up there. It’s no secret that people have been forced to abandon their family business and homes due to the outstanding interest in this community. The interest of polishing what made my community glow has now been buffed and made it a very hip and cool place to live. If it’s so important for new mgmt to make this a safer, cleaner up and coming area, why haven’t any of the neighborhood schools or libraries been given a new look? Goodbye raxa, hello vintage. With that said, it’s my goal to keep my community as close to home as possible. MoM Ridaz know that we try to keep that as a value.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Bike, Buds, Diversity, Keepin it 100, and sticking out for each other
Shout Outs My parents, my sisters. Taco Tuesday! Night Owls! The Bike Oven, Ciclavia, The Bike Coalition, MOMs around the world, and all the cyclists in LA stay up and rep hard!
Background
I’m a vegan cyclist born & raised in West L.A. I love making art and working with my hand. I race with bicycle.net.
Why You Joined
I started going on group rides and doing alley cats. Soon enough I was asked to be a MoM Rida haha.
How Long? 3 Years.
Favorite Places to Ride Anywhere with a pretty view. Ex: Mulholland, Topanga, etc‌
Upcoming Events None at the moment. I usually ride on my own now.
Inspiration How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Very important. I volunteer at the Bikrowave whenever I can.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! We love each other We love our community We give back We ride bikes And we will fix your bike.
I love going fast and cutting through traffic. It’s a rush I can’t get enough of. Even after I was hit by a car.
Background I am just a regular person like everyone else…only thing is I ride a bicycle everyday. I’ve lived in Los Angeles for about three years. I’m originally from Oxnard, CA.
Why You Joined I became part of MoM Ridaz because I like to ride my bicycle with good people. I’ve made many friends in this community and it feels good to be a part of a group that shares the same interests.
How Long? I’ve been a member since October 2013.
Favorite Places to Ride
Riding all over the city gives you a chance to explore. Some of my favorite rides are the long ones 100+ miles that takes us out of our element.
Upcoming Events There’s always a Ride somewhere. I always check MidnightRidazz.com to stay up on rides.
Inspiration
Shout Outs
I do it for my health.
I’d like to give a shout out to The Bike Oven…Bicycle Kitchen and Ricky’s Bike Shop
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? I try to do what I can when I can. There’s always someone in need.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Togetherness We ride everywhere We help each other Love Your MoM is awesome!
Background Audiophile, Cyclist, and freelance entrepreneur.
Why You Joined I was asked to be a part of a special group of cyclists, by an awesome ride leader one day…and the rest is history!
How Long? For over 3 years now 5.
Favorite Places to Ride Just about anywhere and all over Los Angeles, but not stopping there…Ojai, Santa Barbara, and San Diego are never out of the question, either!
Upcoming Events Oh, you know just riding your MoM all the time! WoW MoM!
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Quite a bit. I volunteer for a lot of bicycle community events, including CicLAvia several times a year, most Wolfpack Hustle races and events, MoM Ridaz own Sock the Homeless every January 1st, LACBC community events and rides, and any other community event I hear about and have the time to get involved with. I try to help out whenever, wherever, and with whomever I can! It’s great when several of us MoM Ridaz get together and volunteer for events as a team.
Inspiration The beautiful SoCal weather, a smooth, comfy bicycle and a bunch of cool cats to cruise with!
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! 1)Your MoM. 2)We watch out for each other on rides and whenever any of us might need help, we are here for each other. 3) Many of us do volunteer for charities, other rides and events with other bicycle community ridaz and friends. 4) We are an insane group of very different mindsets and personalities, coming together as a very unique, creative force. 5)The bickering and arguments that quickly turns into hugz and lovez
Shout Outs All LA bicycle clubs and ride groups. The bicycle community in general. All the cool co-op bicycle spots that keep our bikes together with cheap parts, i.e. the Bike Kitchen, the Bikrowave, and of course, the Bike Oven! All the kids and kats that continue to ride with us crazy MoMz all over town. To Carolin Kewer and Mistah Taylor for coming out and making this awesome picture session happen. Oh yea, your MoM!
Background Hey, my name is Mayra my MoMz call me Momma Bear. They dubbed me Momma Bear because I am always the first to check someone on why they aren’t wearing their helmet or why they have such dim lights or no lights at all. Haha also, I ALWAYS carry snacks. Lol I became a MoM a lil over a year ago and I have to say the amount of love I have received from everyone has been amazing. Last year was one of the toughest years of my life and I could always count on my bike family to be there for me whenever I needed anyone or anything. I lost my Mother almost a year ago and the day of her funeral a bunch of MoMz rode in all black all the way from Northeast Los Angeles to Van Nuys to be by my side during such a difficult time. They are my second family. Since then, I have chosen to live my life clean. I made a decision to stop drinking and it’s been almost a year that I haven’t had a drink. Even those most MoMz like to partake, they are and always were supportive of my decision to stop drinking. As a result of sobriety, I have decided to train for my very 1st triathlon. Myself and Lily Serrano are training to be the first triathlete MoM Ridaz. Our goal is to break the stereotype of the weed smoker as a lazy brain dead loser. We want to show that just because you like to smoke weed doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of doing amazing things and what better way to show it by crossing the finish line representing my MoMz across my back along with a huge beautiful cannabis leaf plastered right in the center.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome!
People Love Us People hate us Bikes are awesome Weed is awesome Your MoM
Why You Joined I joined MoM Ridaz because I loved seeing the mix of that many different kinds of people all brought together by a mutual love for our bicycles. There’s something real powerful about the bond people have with each other that ride bicycles. There’s that mutual respect & understanding because we know the risks we have to take each time we go on those streets and that indescribable feeling of fun & excitement you get when you’re bombing down a hill at 30mph. We were all brought together by our love for having a good time and riding in our city. We always love & represent .A., the Valley, the Westside. We have MoM Ridaz everywhere!
Favorite Places to Ride
I love riding in Downtown L.A. at night time. When the hustle & bustle of the day has died down and all the cars are all in their garages, where they belong, I take to the empty streets. No matter what there is always a new place to explore and discover. Never a dull moment. Whether it’s a solo or group ride, there’s never a dull moment on the saddle.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? I’m really excited about volunteering at this upcoming CicLAvia in the valley. It will be the first time they have CicLAvia in the San Fernando Valley. I am anxious to be a part of it because I lived in the valley my whole life and to see CicLAvia coming to my home brings joy to my heart. Most rides of this type are usually always in the Los Angeles area so I’m excited to invite my friends and family to come out and ride with us. I also admired the tradition that was started to sock the homeless every year on January 1st. Sock The Homeless is a yearly charity event that we do where we raise money to buy socks, gloves, scarves, and beanies and on the 1st of the year, we ride around to areas with a big homeless population and pass them out. We don’t just like to party.
Inspiration Inspiration can come from anything. But for me, it comes from my Mother. She is not with us anymore physically but the love I hold for her in my heart drives me to push myself to be better, to ride a little faster or to push myself to swim that extra lap. I know she is watching over me and I want to make her proud. I won’t give up because she won’t let me.
Shout Outs Shout out to the homie and fellow MoM who is suffering at the gates of the “man” right now and to Justin Garcia, my friend & 6-time Triathlete swim coach who devotes his time, skill, and energy into training me and Lily and never asks for anything in return except to do the best you can. MoM Ridaz!
Background I’m a construction worker full time monfri, very athletic, outdoorsy type of person.
Why You Joined Well, I was doing a lot of rides with the MoMz prior to becoming a MoM, then this ride came up called “gang wars” and one of the other members asked me if I want to be a part of the club.
How Long? It will be 3 years this October, so about 2 ½ years
Favorite Places to Ride I would say Hollywood area, DTLA. Kinda like being around all the people and showing how us bike fans do it in the streets.
“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’m Possible!”
Upcoming Events I don’t have anything planned yet or haven’t checked out the ride calendar.
Inspiration Passion, mobility, exercise, and hangout with good friends.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Giving back is really good. It gets your name and face out in the public so you’re recognizable and people can see all the good you have done or tried to help out with.
5 Reasons Why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Cool people, good rides, help out with the community, always have your back, and very supportive.
Background From Chicago, been in Cali for a few. Two years in the Toakland Bay Area, moved to LA about a year ago.
Why You Joined I thought I was the only person who wanted to swim in Echo Park Lake. I love having fun and doing good every now and then.
“Riding bikes is something you do, MoM Ridaz is something you live.” – Matt “Munchie” Mutchler
Background Grew up in Jefferson, Ohio 44047 with my mom (Pam), sister (Mary), & brother (Johnny). My grandma and papa moved up from Texas to help raise us & we saw my dad (John) on the weekends. My childhood was full of extracurriculars like ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, & track. I loved going dancing on the weekends with my friends to a place called cover, our own little Studio54 ;) After High School, I went to thee Ohio State University & after 4 years & too many keg stands later, I graduated with a degree in Psychology & Theatre. I then moved to LA that Summer and have been looking for a reliable & enjoyable career ever since.
Why You Joined Noah Bradford Landis & MoMz are family. I started a ride back in 2010 called Alter-Ego Ride which turned out to be a shit-ton of fun and had 3 MoM Ridaz on it…before I was even a MoM!!!
How Long? Since 2012
Favorite Places to Ride Santee Alley & anywhere that has a lane diet or circle intersections!
Upcoming Events My mom: DIAMOND DR. PAM is about to be in town for her birthday on March 11th and she’s going to go on some bike rides with me (Poppycock) & we’re going to make yummy food & cuddle And then on April 20th, Noah will be out visiting!!!
Inspiration Anywhere I need to be inspires me to ride. L.A. weather definitely helps. I often wonder if I would ride nearly as much if I lived somewhere like Chicago…
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Give more than you take. Community oriented & sustainable projects are all that I am interested in. My current project is a community garden @ Bixel/Court in-between DTLA & Echo Park. We have cleared out the abandoned lot& have about 15 beds planted with vegetables & beans & all kinds of good stuff that people can come grab for dinner Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome!
Because they are me, because they love me, because most of us are pretty hardcore, because we ALWAYS speak our minds, and because we always do what we want (as long as it’s not hurting someone else).
Quotes “Life is not about finding yourself, Life is about Creating Yourself” –George Bernard Shaw “Be the Change You want to See” -Ghandi “Revolution – The time is Meow” ;) -KAT
Background I’m Hector Rodriguez. Grew up in Northeast Los Angeles, CA 90031.
Why You Joined I joined MoM Ridaz because they love to party and ride and especially some of the MoMz love doing Century’s, that’s a 100 mile ride and I thank my good friend Detox and Bryon for pushing me to do fun rides.
How Long? I’ve been a member since November 23rd, 2013.
Favorite Places to Ride
I love riding to Escondido, CA to Stone Brewery when I have the time and $$.
Upcoming Events O.B.C., a bike event in Las Vegas, NV and my birthday ride in May.
Inspiration Staying in shape and I love meeting new people and bicycle clubs.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? Giving back is important to me because I love helping people. If I have it, I will help.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! Wild, Crazy, Party animals, Outgoing, and drinkers lol ha ha.
Shout Outs Drooby MoM Founder. Detox and Bryon for making me a better cyclist and pushing me to my limits. To all my MoM Ridaz love them all. MoM!!! Ridaz!!!
Why You Joined I had been going to bike rides I found out thru my brother and from a website called midnightridazz.com since 2009. I didn't really start getting to know people in the cycling community until I moved out of the valley to Korea town. I started hanging out with a few MoMs and then ended up going to Vegas OBC 2014 with some MoMs and came back a prospect.
How Long? I had been going to bike rides I found out thru my brother and from a website called midnightridazz.com since 2009. I didn't really start getting to know people in the cycling community until I moved out of the valley to Korea town. I started hanging out with a few MoMs and then ended up going to Vegas OBC 2014 with some MoMs and came back a prospect.
Inspiration To seek new adventures and for my health to be a better me.
Background Everyone calls me Lily or Lillers. I'm 26 years old and I'm from the 818, San Fernando valley as known as the Red Leaf chapter for MoMs. I just recently graduated from California State University of Northridge with a Bachelor in Science in Public Health Promotions. I'm currently looking for a job that not only makes me happy but in the field of my expertise; which is awareness on Diabetes prevention but more importantly my passion is in Mental Health such as depression and awareness on suicide. Beside community planning and organizing, I lead an ALL Female bike ride with a few other female MoMs and girlfriends called Hot Babes in Charge - HBC. We encourage all girls with different riding abilities to come out, challenge themselves, and lastly sticking together no lady rider left behind. Beside cycling I have other hobbies such as baking and training for my first triathlon coming up in July. I love to baking hence why the O in my MoM is a cupcake. The cupcake is my mascot from my up and coming edible business called Liller's Special Goods. I've been training for the triathlon coming up in July for about 6-7 month now. I've never done anything on the lines of physical training, at first I just started going to practice to get cardio in and I had nothing else to do. Before I knew it I was motivated to do this triathlon by my teammate Mayra who is a MoM, My swimming coach Justin Garcia, and my running and cycling coach/boyfriend Detox who is also a MoM. I can't wait to cross the finish line reppin' the pot leaf on my back in my MoM Ridaz kit. I want to break the stigma that stoners can amount to something, train hard, and finish what they started. I want to continue my training not only to break the stigma but for myself to live a healthier and happier life being physically active and eating better.
5 Reasons why MoM Ridaz is Awesome! What it really comes down to is MoM Ridaz are my awesome dysfunctional family/friends who have brought a lot of happiness in my life. I like to believe that we are the misfits in society that try to live above the stigmas of stoners are lazy and this and that. We are all different when it comes to education, occupations, and personalities but we all seek the same adventure and thrill to ride our bikes and to have fun. The love for our bike brings us together and that's what it comes down too. One love, one bike, MoM Ridaz.
How Important is Giving Back to the Community to you? True happiness doesn't come from having all the money in the world. Money can come and go within minutes but the best rewards always come from volunteering for my community and raising awareness on the issues I'm passion about.
Stephen Baldry