INTERVIEWS
MISSTERIOUS OF W.E NASTY ASHLEY NOVA OF DEAD BOYFRIEND SHERRON ELISE LET’S CHAT W/ MZ. TONI & LISSHA POET EDDIE OLIVER DEONTE’ BOLDEN LAQUEISHA MALONE RON GODFREY
SpoTliGHT aRTIST EAST PAW SNOW
angela’s literary CAFé book reviews ROBIN’S TASTEFUL TIPS & TRIPS
www.teresabhowell.com
FOUNDER and CEO Teresa B. Howell https://tbproductions.org EDITORS Teresa B. Howell David R. Navarro CREATIVE design&print CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Teresa B. Howell David R. Navarro Robin Shockley Lissha Sadler La Sheera Lee Angela Anderson Nayomi Charnelle King Brooks Olivia Shaw-Reel Kenyatta ADVERTISING & PROMOTION TB Productions Media Group TeresaBProductions+ads@gmail.com Maurice Scriber COPYRIGHTS The Heat Seekers Magazine is owned by Teresa B. Howell and Teresa B. Productions. The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith. All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.
Letter from the Founder and CEO This year has been unprecedented and full of disbelief and tragedy. Although we all were impacted in some way—whether setback, loss, or hardship—2020 allowed each individual to self-reflect and appreciate the gift of life. God continues to provide and watch over us. As we accept our new normal and impart positive light to those around us, I am hoping that the launch of The Heat Seekers Magazine will help to bring positive vibes to everyone. As the Founder and CEO of this publication, I want 2021 to be a year of reflection and positivity. As you read each article on how each artist has made it through the trials of 2020, congratulate and appreciate their willingness to overcome. I will call 2021 our “new beginning.” As we begin the process of healing, restoring, and evaluating all around us, let’s remember to still celebrate one another. Without God, this magazine would not be possible. Without hope, I would have stopped midway in the year. Without courage, I would have dropped everything and settled for second-best. Instead, I decided to use my gift of spreading joy and love and compress it into colorful pages and images of individuals that I honor and adore. Thanks for joining me on this new journey of journalism; I wish you peace, happiness, joy, and prosperity for 2021. Remember: “Quitters never overcome, and overcomes never quit!” Blessings to all of you!
Teresa B. Howell Founder and CEO, The Heat Seekers Magazine
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contents Page 6
missterius of w.e nasty by lissha sadler // HARDCORE GRIND
Page 9
ThE AmEn CoRnER-Vol9 by Nayomi Charnelle
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featured indie artist Ashley Nova of dead boyfriend by DAViD R. navarro
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TRENDING on riches in reading by kenyatta ingrim
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Podcast of The Month let’s chat w/ mz. liz & lissha by teresa B. Howell
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eddie oliver poet
Is That Really You?
by teresa B. Howell
by DAViD SPENCER
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sherron elise by king brooks
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author of The Month Deonte’ Bolden by teresa B. Howell
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EXCluSivE IntERviEW WITH jammin jay lamont by teresa B. howell & david r. navarro
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LAQUEISHA MALONE by teresa B. Howell
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sPOTLIght artist east paw snow Page 31
actor of The Month ron GODFREY by teresa B. Howell
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anGElA’S litERAry CAFé book rEViEWs by anGEla anderson
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Robin’s taSTEFul tipS & TripS Food article & Blog by robin ShoCklEY 3
Teresa B. Howell
Talk Show Host, Sony-Orchard Distributor, and Award Winning Writer/Producer. http://teresabhowell.com
Bailey Elora Listen, Like & Download Bailey Elora’s new single: “DRUNK RN” https://linktr.ee/baileyelora
Photo of Bailey Elora by Ricky Zastrow @coloradophotoworks
Missterious w.e nasty 6
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Photo by @stunttimehd
Rockin’ The Mic With Missterious Interview by Lissha Sadler of Hardcore Grind
Missterious was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in North Carolina, now residing in Augusta, Ga. Writing for her has always given her peace of mind. She started writing poems and lyrics but never thought about pursuing being an artist until her adult years. In late, she reached out to several producers and engineers, and from there, the magic happened. Missterious learned to have her own swag while telling her story. She branded herself as “Real Raw & Nasty.” As an artist, she wanted not only to be known as an entertainer but also a boss. After networking and building musical relationships, Missterious met artist Ike Dawg. Together they released her second single and video, “Pop That,” which won the Best Video award in 2020 for the CSRA Indy Artist Award Show. Missterious was determined to build a separate brand with him and soon after was introduced to artist Rocket Slym. With his work ethic by December 2020, the three of them teamed up and created a Label. W.E Nasty LLC. Lissha Sadler: How would you describe your musical ear? Missterious: Very diverse, so not just hip hop. I like R&B and country music as well. Music is music for me, as long as it’s good and I can feel it. LS: Where does your creativity flow? M: Oh, my creativity flows the most inside the studio or inside of my vehicle. And I know that’s weird. When I’m in my car, I’m in my own space, and nobody’s around me. And it’s just more soothing to me. As an artist in a studio, it gives me the vibe, and it’s all about a record. There is something about just being in an atmosphere of music. LS: How do you avoid burning out? M: I would have to say it’s a mental thing. I work hard every day now. But I don’t overwork myself. I tried to kind of level everything out, you know, put everything into the right spot. LS: What was the most defining moment for you in your career? M: I would say, coming together with my partners, and building the label we have together. LS: Tell me about the vision behind your music and your brand? M: My vision for myself is sexy, raw, and authentic. I’m a strong woman, so when I say nasty, I mean we’re all grown, and we all know what’s going on. LS: How has COVID helped or affected your music or brand? M: It helped a little bit because it gave us time to build our label as a team. And time to grow as individual independent artists. No matter what, you still have to continue to work, and you can’t let it set you back. I was put in a situation to grow, and it just gave me more time to sit down and focus on so much more.
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LS: There’s a heavy cost to pursuing and pulling your vision together. Who is your biggest support system throughout your journey? M: I would have to say my partner’s and my husband. Out of those three, they are my biggest supporters. When I first started, my husband was helping me pay for Studio time and helping me buy things for performances. When I got in with Rocky and Slim, they kept me up like a family unit. So, between the three of them, they are my biggest supporters. Most definitely. LS: You inspire so many in the music industry. How does that make you feel? M: That feels good to be an influencer of someone. This goes back to me as a person being raw and straightforward. You don’t want to sugarcoat this to people and make them think you’re fraudulent. So I’m the type of person who can’t sugarcoat anything. I influenced many to do what I do in music and come outside of their craft to grow. LS: What advice do you have for aspiring artists? M: The advice is to keep grinding and not give up because it will get hard. The hard times do get easier, so make sure you stay focused and invest in yourself. And don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t or discourage you. Because as long as you keep that mindset that you can, you will. LS: What is next for Missterious? What will your top priorities be moving forward in your career? M: Right now, the top priority for me is these new projects and making sure that I get myself out there as an artist and continue networking in different states.
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The Amen Corner-Vol9 by Nayomi Charnelle
The Wind of God by Vashwan Mitchelle. Hearing the words alone made me want to just lift my hands in praise. Wind means breath, wind means a shift, wind means freedom. When we let the opinions of others persuade our perception of who we are, that’s when the trouble begins. It’s even worse when we stop seeking the very things that God has promised us. We start looking to different vices to ease the pain of things that hurt us so badly in our past. We think alcohol and other drugs will soothe our inner being and the pain we may have endured within our past life. God is saying if we just look to him and we call on his name and know that if we have the faith the size of a mustard seed, He will send that wind in our direction. If we just call on him whenever fear or doubt sets in. If we would just believe that if He made the blind see and the lame walk, He can ease the pain and deliver us from the things that haunt us and torture us. Allow God to send that wind in your direction. Allow Him to blow that wind of new life. Thank you, God, for the wind.
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FEATURED INDIE ARTIST
ashley nova DEAD BOYFRIEND 10
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Multi-Talented Artist Interview by David R. Navarro David R. Navarro: Tell us a little bit about yourself? Ashley Nova: Hello! I’m Ashley, I’m a 22 year old singer-songwriter based in Denver. I started a band called Dead Boyfriend in 2018, which at first, was just me writing and recording everything in my bedroom. Very DIY. I love to dabble in different genres like punk, folk, and indie rock, and try to make music that challenges my writing and playing abilities. I’m really into writing songs on bass and piano, because I don’t think those two instruments get enough recognition in the rock category. Also, I play 7 instruments! In my spare time, I’m also into other artsy things like drawing, painting, and film photography! DN: How long have you been a performing artist? AN: I’d say about 8 years. I first started learning bass when I was a freshman in High School, but didn’t perform live until I was 16. DN: What made you decide to be serious about music? AN: I would watch live performances of my favorite groups at the time, like My Chemical Romance, and their passion on stage and ability to move people with their music was just mind blowing to me. Also, I remember my first time performing on stage. I had so much stage fright before I went on, I almost got sick, but when I went on stage it just felt so right. It’s hard to explain, but it felt like I was supposed to be doing this. I honestly can’t imagine myself doing anything else for a living! DN: Which people or books have had the most influence on your music career and why? AN: When it comes to how I write music, I think the bands that I listened to a lot in High School really shaped how I view writing lyrics and song structure in general. I really admire the Pixies and their simple but complex song structures, as well as the abstract way their lyrics are written. The same goes for Neutral Milk Hotel; their sound and poetic lyricism always intrigued me, and I think that’s reflected a lot in my music.
Car Seat Headrest also was a huge reason why I started my band, Dead Boyfriend, in the first place. Car Seat Headrest was also founded by one person, and recorded all of their earlier stuff in a bedroom with just one person, and they found great amounts of success! I decided to do the same. DN: What would you say is the #1 key to success in the music industry? AN: It’s hard to tell, but for me I think ambition is the biggest thing. You have to want it, and put a lot on the line to be able to achieve a career like this. And you have lots of love for what you do, too! DN: Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it? AN: The first one that comes to mind is probably when I released my last album, Strangers Forever. I tried to market it as best I could, but with a nonexistent budget it was really difficult. Plus, it’s not like I had a marketing team or anything at the time of it’s release, so that meant I had to do everything myself. On top of all the other tasks that come with releasing an album is just WAY too much for one person to handle. So, unfortunately, it didn’t get as much traction as I had hoped, but I still got featured on some playlists, and even got the album reviewed! I’m very proud of that. THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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I think the biggest thing I learned from releasing that album by myself was that you have to be insanely prepared. Like, if you think you’re well prepared already, you have to prepare EVEN MORE. It’s really hard to get your art out there with limited resources, but I think with a lot of creativity you can still make it work. DN: What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps? AN: It’s pretty cliche, but JUST GO FOR IT! Everyone has to start somewhere, so even if you think you’re ‘not good enough’, just putting your art out there into the world is a HUGE first step. Be authentic, be creative, and don’t care what other people think. Just making art for YOU is so important. DN: What does a typical day in your week look like? AN: During the day I work at Starbucks, but when I have free time I’m either writing music, trying to plan band practice, or just passing the time (AKA procrastinating) by watching Netflix, reading poetry, or drawing. DN: What keeps you going when things get tough in the business? AN: I have major ups and downs all the time. I honestly just think about how I can only imagine myself doing music as a career. There’s no other choice! If this is the life I chose, then I’ll have to keep working and working to make that dream come true. DN: What’s next for you? New music? AN: Yes! I’m so excited, because me and my bandmates have been writing a concept album for a few months! Not to give too much away, but we’re trying to write an album centering around the thoughts and identities of different people from a small, suburban village. There are a bunch of different stories to be told on this album, and I think it’ll be really interesting to watch it unfold. I’m also planning on getting this album professionally recorded and mixed, which is a first for Dead Boyfriend! So stay tuned! We’re still in the writing process as of now. DN: Please list your website and/or your social media platforms. AN: Our website is deadboyfriend666.carrd.co Our Instagram is @mydeadboyfriend and we even have a TikTok! Which is @deadboyfriendband DN: What’s better, singing karaoke or singing in the shower? AN: Definitely the shower! The acoustics in there? Phenomenal.
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DN: What’s your all time favorite song lyric? AN: What a tough question!! I’m stuck between picking an Amanda Palmer or Fiona Apple song, because they’re both absolute musical geniuses in my eyes, but I think I’ll go with this very simple line from, Fiona Apple’s ‘Sullen Girl’: ‘But it’s calm under the waves, in the blue of my oblivion’ Sullen Girl is one of my favorite Fiona Apple tracks. It’s about a really dark subject, and the emotions that come with it. The feeling of drowning and isolation in that song is portrayed so well, especially by the lyrics. DN: Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you? AN: I’m a virgo/libra cusp, aquarius moon. That usually explains a lot. Hehe Also, my band’s latest album is on every major streaming platform right now! It’s called Strangers Forever! Give it a listen, I’m sure you’ll find something you’ll like on there! Photos: Thomas Tanner @thomas.o.tanner
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Is That Really You? by DAViD SPENCER
Is that really you? It’s a shame that you must ask that these days. People can be whoever they want to be on social media. Social Media makes it easy to hide in plain sight. Social media also makes it easy to promote and create a better version of you- only posting the perfect shots after editing everything. Everybody is rich, fabulous, and has the perfect body these days. Not using a filter is an accomplishment. Social Media allows users to control the dynamics of their relationships with others. Users can instantly block and unfollow users they don’t agree with. Tolerance is a thing of the past. Debating passionately and remaining friends sounds strange these days. Delete all interactions that are not flattering. Erase anything that makes you uncomfortable. Hide content that you don’t agree with or understand. Delete people from your life. Social Media is a great way to connect with people online but it will never replace the value of a face to face conversation. Some people think a share, like, or DM is how they should build and grow relationships. Yes, this is engagement but it’s not the type of interaction that leads to fruitful longterm partnerships. Social Media is changing how we communicate but it’s not helping us from conflict. Humans need to ask questions in person. Humans need to experience other humans live and in color. We need to be put in situations where we are forced to be ourselvesflaws and all exposed. We answer truthfully in those moments. Watching another’s body
anguage and paying attention to the subtle variances in their voice is how interaction should take place. Being emotionally vulnerable is dangerous yet very safe. You learn how you want to be treated in those moments. First kisses can happen… or won’t. Rejection is a part of life. Learn to handle it. Everybody wants to be real but they work extremely hard to hide everything real about them. It’s very rare to find someone being completely honest on social media. That type of honesty is rare and underappreciated. If you don’t believe me read the comment sections. I guess people generally don’t like who they are. Instead of working on changing what they don’t like about themselves, it’s easier to post a selfie of who they’d like to be. They lie to themselves and to the world. We are too comfortable with people lying to us. Social Media is making the world smaller. Users only socialize with people that look and think like them. They only connect with people that like their profiles and don’t challenge their opinions of themselves and the world. There are billions of people on social media but it is still a very lonely place. Are you comfortable in your own skin? How many pictures did you take to get to the perfect shot? How many minutes did you spend cropping and editing. Can you handle that your truth may not be true at all? Will you continue to let what others think define what you post? Why do our posts matter so much anyway? Just curious.
David Spencer is a communications professional, gifted singer, public speaker, and author. His voice can be heard loud and clear, regardless of the medium he chooses. He is responsible for influencing the people around him through his works.
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sherron elise
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The Christian College Chat Show Interview by King Brooks
I have known Sherron Elise for some time now and she has grown from having one book to having many. When I saw her launch a podcast, I had to sit down with her to find out more about it and why expand beyond the pen. King Brooks: Tell us about your podcast ‘The Christian College Chat show?’ Sherron Elise: The College Christian Chat podcast is a show geared towards helping college women balance school, life, relationships and intimacy with God. I take a collaborative and spiritual approach with young women towards working with them on an inward journey, providing encouragement and support as they explore their lives and discover how to live a life of spiritual quality. KB: Where did the idea for the show come from? SE: The Covid shutdown during 2020 found a lot of us with time on our hands and I found myself researching college care packages because I wanted to start a care package program for college students. But I was then struck with the inclination to do even better by creating a podcast that would serve as a source of spiritual nourishment instead.
KB: Have you thought of expanding beyond the Christian college person? SE: Actually seeing as how I write Christian fiction novels for adults, I feel like my books minister to that particular demographic. I was glad to create my podcast as a space for college students.
KB: Give us the demographics of your podcast? SE: The majority of my listeners are in the age range of 18-22 years old. But I was also surprised to discover I have listeners within the 30-40 age bracket. My listeners live all over the U.S. as well as other countries such as Ghana, Brazil, The Virgin Islands, and Nigeria.
KB: I saw that you trademark your podcast congrats on that. How important was it for you to trademark your show? SE: I want to expand the ministry of The College Christian Chat and eventually do live weekend retreats or conferences in different cities for college students. If the podcast continues to grow I’d also like to have a line of merch or apparel so it was very imperative to obtain a trademark.
KB: You have been doing the show for 2 seasons now. How many more years will you continue to do the show? SE: Seeing as how I feel this show was created under the direction of God, I will continue for as long as He leads and guides me. KB: Has your audience grown over the 2 seasons and by how much? SE: Yes, I am nearing the end of season 2 and I have seen about a 30% increase in listenership since season one concluded this past spring. I’ve also seen more listens in alot of other different countries such as Australia, Germany, Philippines, Spain and the United Kingdom.
KB: What advice would you give to someone wanting to venture into podcasting? SE: Do plenty of research on how to get started. Youtube is a great resource to gather info. And don’t let the idea of the podcast market being oversaturated deter you. You have a voice and a story, and someone out there needs to hear it. There is room at the table for you. KB: What platforms do you use to get the word out to the public about ‘The Christian College Chat show? SE: Primarily Facebook and Instagram. I also have a Youtube channel. KB: How can people get in contact with you and find the show? SE: I can be reached through email at sherronelise@gmail.com and the show can be found on Apple podcasts as well as Spotify.
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Trending on Riches In Reading
Island Queen by Vanessa Riley Born into slavery on the /ny Caribbean island of Monserrat, Doll bought her freedom—and that of her sister and her mother—from her Irish planter father and built a legacy of wealth and power as an entrepreneur, merchant, hotelier, and planter that extended from the marketplaces and sugar planta/ons of Dominica and Barbados to a gliAering luxury hotel in Demerara on the South American con/nent.
Vanessa Riley’s novel brings Doll to vivid life as she rises above the harsh reali/es of slavery and colonialism by working the system and leveraging the compe/ng aAen/ons of the men in her life: a restless shipping merchant, Joseph Thomas; a wealthy planter hiding a secret, John Coseveldt Cells; and a roguish naval captain who will later become King William IV of England.
From the bustling port ci/es of the West Indies to the forbidding drawing rooms of London’s elite, Island Queen is a sweeping epic of an adventurer and a survivor who answered to no one but herself as she rose to power and autonomy against all odds, defying rigid eighteenth-century morality and the oppression of women as well as people of color. It is an unforgeAable portrait of a true larger-than-life woman who made her mark on history.
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In Every Mirror She's Black by Lolá Ákínmádé Åkerström An arresting debut for anyone looking for insight into what it means to be a Black woman in the world.
Three Black women are linked in unexpected ways to the same influential white man in Stockholm as they build their new lives in the most open society run by the most private people.
Successful marketing executive Kemi Adeyemi is lured from the U.S. to Sweden by Jonny von Lundin, CEO of the nation's largest marketing firm, to help fix a PR fiasco involving a racially tone-deaf campaign. A killer at work but a failure in love, Kemi's move is a last-ditch effort to reclaim her social life.
A chance meeting with Jonny in business class en route to the U.S. propels former model-turned-flight-attendant Brittany-Rae Johnson into a life of wealth, luxury, and privilege—a life she's not sure she wants—as the object of his unhealthy obsession.
And refugee Muna Saheed, who lost her entire family, finds a job cleaning the toilets at Jonny's office as she works to establish her residency in Sweden and, more importantly, seeks connection and a place she can call home.
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PODCAST OF THE MONTH
Let’s chat w/ Mz. Toni & Lissha 18
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Podcast on the Rise Interview by Teresa B. Howell
Bio: Lissha Sadler is the producer and co-host on the popular podcast Let’s Chat w/ Mz Toni and Lissha. She is also a social media manager, author advocate, literary agent and consultant, CEO and so much more. Lissha loves to experience a person’s passion for their craft. She is currently preparing for her Visions and Books Literary Affair set for April 2 2022. Lissha is on the move to make her powerful mark in the Literary World. Following her on her Social Media: FB and IG as Lissha Sadler; Twitter as Lissha https://hardcorereadersandreviewers.blogspot.com Bio: Mz. Toni is the CEO of BookedRight Editing Services. In 2018, she was the recipient of the Literary Jewels Best Editor Award. As Senior Editor, her passion is to take an authors’ work and help bring out the best their pen has to offer its readers. She is dedicated to helping clients expand their brand. Mz Toni is also a WRP Promotions Diva, Avid Reader, and Book Reviewer. Twitter: @Toni_Doe and @RightBooked Instagram: MzToniTrina and BookedRightEditing Facebook: MzToniTrina and BookedRightEditing
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God Bless the Dead By Eddie L. Oliver, Poet
It seems like we’re living in this weird time Maybe it’s all just borrowed time A time where everywhere you turn it seems like there’s a possibility of stepping on a Covid land mine You got family and friends who are dying Family and friends who are crying Everywhere people are sad and depressed worried about who’s next Because their Saturday afternoons are spent dressed up in their Sunday best As they pay their last respects To someone that was close and dear to their heart Suddenly, they got sick and they died from Covid And now the hurt that they feel is tearing their whole family apart There’s this chilling ripple effect that can be felt all through their hearts Mama may have Papa may have But let God bless the dead and the child that got his own However nowadays a lot of houses seem cold and empty Because a lot of loved ones who went to the ER Isn’t coming back home And that’s a pain that cuts so deep That it’s felt all though the bones And it’s a shame because it’s a pain that’s felt all around the world Where it seems like in every other home someone is sitting in a room Sad, depressed, confused And alone All because that love one that they lost is never ever coming back home And it’s all because of this crazy virus called Covid This modern-day plague that they call Covid I say to you that are sad, depressed, and confused Let God’s love comfort and heal you Mama may have Papa may have But let God bless the dead and the child that got his own EDDIE L OLIVER
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Exculsive Interview
jammin jay lamont Recording Artist & Comedian
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Photo by @stunttimehd
Recording Artist on the Move Interview by Teresa B. Howell & David R. Navarro
Tell us about yourself? Who is Jammin Jay Lamont? Jammin Jay Lamont is someone who was born and raised in Oklahoma City, OK and dreamed of being the biggest entertainer around. He is a singer/musician and also is a comedian who mixes jokes with impressions and extra ordinary attractions. He was a former On-air radio personality who worked in radio for 8 years and is now working on music for the coming months. Who came up with the name, “The Human iPod? A few guys I’ve worked with gave me that name since I do these musical affects and impressions, they thought that would be a good name for me to be like a human iPod. My nickname back in high school was actually, “radio man”. How long have you been a performing artist? I’ve been performing for almost 31 years. You’ve spent most of your career as a comedian. What made you decide to be serious about being a recording artist? Well, I’ve been recording ever since I was in college. I actually started out in music and was the lead singer of an R&B band at the time and we had recorded over 300 demos and was in the process of getting a record deal, but things didn’t work out to our expectations, so I decided to just do the comedy for the time being until I could put some songs together for later and do my own project. I had always been singing ever since being in the choir at church. Which people or books have had the most influence on your music career and why? My influences range from folks like my Mother who was a musician and played three instruments. She also played a major role in my vocal ability in wanting to sing and as far I n the entertainment game, folks like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder to Richard Pryor and Sinbad as for comedy, a broad range. What would you say is the #1 key to success in the entertainment industry? To be focused and be serious about this business. Loving what you do.
Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it? Being on the wrong platform. A lot of times, you can’t always say that every show you’ve done was the right show to be on. I’ve learned that, ‘All Money Ain’t Good Money”. What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps? Stay grounded. Be prepared to do what you wanna do. Never allow anyone to block your blessing. What does a typical day in your week look like? Any typical day for me is anything. I could be writing a song, Coming up with a new bit for a joke. Pretending to sing to a woman that I wanna be with. Traveling here and there just to relax. THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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What’s next for you? New music? Got my album coming out real soon. It’ll have up to 11 songs on it. Just finished my new single ‘Things Ain’t Changed’ with a new video we shot for it. Also, getting ready to head back out on the road to perform since this pandemic had us shut down. Please list your website and/or your social media platforms. You can follow me on all social media. Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @ jamminjaylamont. If you wanna order any merchandise of mine, I have a few comedy DVDs, t-shirts and other goodies at my website. www. thejaylamont.com and my music is available on all digital platforms. What song do you sing in the shower? Any song that comes to mind, I will sing in the shower. Trust me, I will be in concert while taking a shower. From Luther to The Isley Brothers. Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you? I am a lovable person and I enjoy having fun.
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AUTHOR OF THE MONTH
Deonte’ bolden THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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Author on the Rise Interview by Teresa B. Howell
Teresa B. Howell: Tell us a little bit about yourself? Deonte’ Bolden: I’m Atlanta based Award-Winning author, filmmaker, host, playwright, and CEO of my own production company titled Deonte’ Bolden Productions. Through my production company, I made my directing and playwriting debut with the premiere of my stage play “ Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places.” The inaugural work was well- received by the Atlanta community and inspired audiences during the 2 sold out performances while receiving several nominations. I have been interviewed on platforms such Atlanta 57 Live and 11 Alive News, and I’m currently developing a series of works built around my life experiences that will inspire many generations. TBH: What does it feel like to be an author? DB: Being An Author is rewarding and POWERFUL. God choses me of all people to give an idea to while trusting me to see it through. I write and share the vision and release my sound into the universe while watching how it impacts reader’s lives one reader at a time. It’s a blessing to know that my body of work will be here long after I’m gone and God calls me home. TBH: At what point of your life did you say, “I want to write children’s books”? DB: Last year, when the world shut down, I had a lot of time to write ideas. It was around my brother’s birthday and I begin to reminisce and think about our conversations. Suddenly, I remembered the time when he told me that he wished that he could walk again and how he wished that kids wouldn’t stare at him and treat him differently. Next, I was coming up with the concept of telling a story from the point of view of children who were disabled while using those conversations in the story. TBH: Were you an avid reader as a child? DB: Yes, reading was a way of escaping reality as a child. TBH: What is one of your favorite children’s book and why? DB: I loved the Berenstain Bears collection of books. It was the family bond between parents and children along with the theme of their stories that resonated with me because t I came from a single-family home. TBH: What influenced your writing career and why? DB: After the passing of my brother in 2006, I didn’t want to live anymore, however, I started writing and expressing my
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thoughts and emotions, which lead to me writing poetry, scripts, and then venturing into writing books that would change lives forever. TBH: Are you self-published or do you use traditional publishing? What made you decide on which option was best for you? DB: Self-Publishing because I like to have creative control over my stories. It gives me the opportunity to craft and control content every step of the way. TBH: Will you be writing other books in the future? DB: Absolutely, I am just enjoying the process of promoting my first two stories, however, I do see more books coming very soon. Stay tuned. TBH: Who completed the art work in your books? What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps? DB: TRUST the process and TRUST yourself. If you have ideas and a story then write it, and don’t be afraid to share your story because someone somewhere is waiting for you to release your sound into the earth THAT WILL change their life forever. TBH: Please list your website and/or your social media platforms. DB: Deonte’ Bolden Productions | Providing Ministry Through the Arts. Deonte’ Bolden Productions is a Christian production company that provides ministry through the arts. www.deonteboldenproductions.com IG: @deonteboldenproductions, FB: @deonteboldenproductions FB: @differentlyabledbook TBH: Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you? DB: I have a short film that will be released soon titled “ The Skin I’m In Vol. Melanin Melanie which deals with the issue and topic of colorism in the African American community. I also have my own awards show coming 10/22/2022 titled “ The Bolden Awards” where we acknowledge and award those who are making big moves in the industry while achieving greatness. I have a stage production titled “ Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places” coming to the stage in Marietta, GA at The Sewell Mills Cultural Arts Center February 12th & 13th, 2021 @6pm EST. Tickets will go on sale in December. You can visit my website www.deonteboldenproductions.com for more information.
LAQUEISHA MALONE
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Strawberry-Lit Magazine Interview by Teresa B. Howell
Strawberry-Lit Magazine’s first issue released December 2015 with MK Asante on the cover. It was created by myself, LaQueisha Malone to cover all things literary and of the arts. I remember being a space where I was searching for ways to promote myself and get in magazines. At that time, magazine would tell me they were looking for more urban writers or not accepts authors for interview. There were author magazines out there but they were limited. When I began researching what was out there for us Indie Authors in magazine, notice that the magazine didn’t offer information about publishing but only offered interviews. I wanted to fill that gap by providing writing, publishing, and marketing information along with interviews. We are coming upon 6 years come December 2021 and I’m so excited.
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SPOTLIGHT ARTIST
EAST PAW SNOW ft. Sove Reign x ReeCee Raps NEW MINI FILM & SINGLE AVAILABLE OCTOBER 21ST! https://lynxinbio.com/shimmer 30
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ACTOR OF THE MONTH
ron godfrey THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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Actor on the Rise Interview by Teresa B. Howell
Teresa B. Howell: Tell us a little about yourself. Ron Godfrey: My birth name is Ronald Lee Godfrey, but I go by Ron Godfrey. I was born on September 3, 1970 in Stamford, Connecticut. I am the 6th of 6 children. I’m now 51 years old with 5 children and 5 grandchildren. I’m an Actor, Author, Entrepreneur, and a lover of God. TBH: What prompted you to get into the acting field? RG: I can’t really say that it was something in particular that prompted me. I just remember waking up one day back in 2013 and saying that I’m gonna become an Actor and then 4 months later, I was on stage performing in my first stage play called, “Deathtrap.” Then 4 months after that, I did my first short film. 4 months after that, I did my first feature film. 4 months after that, I was at Tyler Perry Studios doing one of his sitcoms and the story goe from there. Now, you can find me on Youtube, Prime Video, Netflix, BET, allblk, and will soon see me on HBO MAX and HULU. TBH: When did acting become a priority for you? RG: I would say that acting became a priority for me after being in it for about 2 years. I started seeing that Ii was pretty good at it and rewarding it could be not only for me, but for my family. Also, my mother had told me that she at one time in her life wanted to become a model or actress, but coming up in the south during the 40’s and 50’s was pretty rough so she never got the opportunity. I told her that she could live her dream through me and I count it a blessing that she’s here to see it come to pass. TBH: What influenced you most? Was it a person in the field? RG: After I made the decision to get into acting, I saw a quote from the late great Cicely Tyson that said, “You are never too old.” Then I read about Samuel L. Jackson and how he was in his early 40’s when he got started. I knew then that I could do it too. TBH: What successful tips would you tell the next aspiring actor? RG: Have a made up mind, be committed, stay consistent, study your craft, be a sponge when you’re on set and most of all, stay humble.
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TBH: Describe a day on a set. RG: A call time can be anywhere from 6 - 8 am. get there, get covid tested. You then find out where your trailer is and get settled. get your breakfast and then shortly after, you get your scene sheet, sides, etc. You gotta go through hair and make up and then your wardrobe is delivered to you. Depending how the Director is maneuvering the scenes, lunch times will vary. Now we’re set and we have to shoot the scenes from different angles, perspectives, etc. The day ends anywhere between 6-9pm. TBH: What was your most memorable acting experience? RG: I don’t have just one but if I had to choose, it would be when I did “American Soul” on BET. My scene was directed by the legendary Robert Townsend. I was in the 3rd episode of the first season. I was the piano player for the club scene and I had a ball. TBH: Do you have any favorite Actors that you would like to work with? RG: Yes! I have to start with Samuel L. Jackson, then Denzel, Angela Bassett, Morgan Freeman, Nicolas Cage, Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, The Rock, and Viola Davis. TBH: Any upcoming projects that you would like to share? I’m filming a new limited series that will be released if not by the end of the year, definitely early next year. After that, I’ll
be filming a pilot series called, “Battle at the Homefront” in which I’m honored to say that I have a principal role. I have other projects coming that I’ll mention at a later time. TBH: I noticed you have a bestselling book about your life. Would you like to share some info about your publication? Yes. I have an autobiography entitled, “Crying Out In The Dark” in which I talk about true events that occured in my life that caused depression. I’m currently working on part 2 and that is set to release in 2022. TBH: What do you find most difficult about the industry? RG: When you don’t get called back. That can be a bit stressful but that’s when you have to stay focused and keep grinding. Giving up is not an option. I can be found on Instagram and my handle is @iamrongodfrey. You can find me on facebook at Ron Godfrey. My website is www.rongodfrey.com I really appreciate this honor and I count a blessing being chosen as the Actor of the month. God has blessed me and is blessing me tremendously and I ask that you continue to pray from me because there’s much more to come, so like I always say.........BRACE YOURSELF, IT’S TIME!
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Angela’s Literary Café Book Reviews
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Pretend Bae
Unoma Nwankwor Pretend Bae is the third installment of the Billionaire Pact Series. It is the story of best friends, Brice Richardson and Imani Sharif. The two of them have been friends since high school. Imani finds herself in a difficult situation when it comes to her friendship with Brice and matters of her heart. Deep down, her heart belongs to Brice, but he’s her best friend. She knows that she must move on with her life, especially since she would like to settle down and be married one day. Brice as the candidate for her happily ever after, is simply not an option. They have crossed that line before only for it to backfire and nearly cost them their friendship. It was a price she was not willing to pay, especially since they have managed to salvage their friendship. However, Imani secretly still has a beyond friendship kind of love for him. She is just not willing to open her heart again and tell him her true feelings. Brice on the other hand is following their new rules of engagement according to what Imani is willing to offer to their friendship. He has noticed a change in her behavior towards him. Brice finds himself in desperate need of her help. He is faced with an opportunity and business deal that he cannot pass up. Money is not an issue…what he needs to seal the deal, his charm or money cannot buy. He needs to act fast and there is not another prospect he can trust or count on to pull this off. He needs a “Pretend Bae” and there is only one person that is perfect for the job. What starts as a friend helping a friend is quickly overshadowed by the world of pretend and fairy tale living in close proximity and being faced to face with the truth. Brice finds himself on a race against time. He has to act fast on his quest to win Imani’s trust of him with her heart. Brice is all in when it comes to Imani being his pretend bae. He provides a wow factor of a proposal that is all so real and believable. But when all the smoke of pretend ends, where will that leave Imani, her heart, and most of all their friendship. He realizes that his feelings for Imani runs deep. The thought of her being with anyone else is unimaginable for him. Especially when Imani reveals that there may be a prospect, someone she is “talking too”. There is a thin line between love and friendship between these two. Entangled in blurred visions and inner emotions, makes it hard to separate the real from the pretend. Imani is always there for Brice when he needs her, so maybe this is a gamble she can take. The harder question is, can her heart handle such a big risk and the charade of it all. Pretend Bae is the friends to lover’s trope at its finest. Wow factor moments, a plot twist that you do not see coming, and a flare of romance that makes for an enjoyable reading experience. Unoma Nwankwor inclusion of rich African culture is pure reader’s bliss. A page-turner for sure, Pretend Bae is a book to enjoy. Pretend Bae and other books by Unoma Nwankwor can be purchased on her website at www.unomanwankwor.com.
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Angela’s Literary Café Book Reviews
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Tempted
Sharon C. Cooper Tempted is the seventh book in the Atlanta’s Finest series. It is the story of Detective Ashton Chambers and Dani Eubanks. Ashton Chambers is a busy detective with his goals set on leaving the Atlanta Police Department, but not before bringing down the man responsible for his sister’s murder. He is also a security specialist of the elite establishment, Supreme Security, where some of the best of the best men and women with law enforcement and military backgrounds work to protect and serve. In addition to making a career change and working with Supreme Security full time, settling down is on his mind. He has his eyes and heart set on the perfect woman for him, Dani Eubanks. There is something about her that has her on Ashton’s future wife radar. Now, if he could only get her to see what he sees, they are meant to be. Dani is cute, sassy, independent, and one who can handle her own. But two broken engagements and failed relationships is enough for Dani and all the more reasons to put another try at love on the back burner. It is certainly not on her list of things to check off. She is more of a been there done that, have the t-shirt and heart wounds to prove it. Based on her track record, she rather leave well enough alone with a no thank you to another chance at love. That is until Ashton Chambers comes along with a lingering presence that makes her want to rethink her stance. Fine, sexy, and all so good-looking with an alpha vibe that has her heart fluttering with delight. His dignified being takes up space whenever he is near her. He has a way of waking up things on the inside of her that have been dormant for some time. He is irresistible with a capital I. Who knew what started out as a day of just letting a friend borrow her car would turn into a lot more spiraling coincidences that spelled trouble? Flirtation, playful banter, and awareness is there and enjoyed by them both, but always handle with pause. That is until one smoking hot kiss changes the trajectory of everything. Not to mention when work, an investigation, and an international gun trafficking ring unexpectedly collides their two worlds together. They both find themselves with decisions to make about their mutual attraction and undeniable chemistry. They are at a crossroad where trusting each other is without question. Dani is guarded, but for some reason she finds herself needing to trust Detective Ashton with more than just her heart. And he is certainly up for the task. Tempted has all the twist and turns of a good suspense that have you on edge. Throw in the romantic elements and this romantic suspense is complete. The undertones of the importance of family are a bonus to the story line. The key of taking care of each other and the safety of the ones you love are evident with Ashton and the Supreme Security team. The men and women are always down for the cause, especially when it involves one of their own or someone close to them. Sharon C. Cooper has a way of bringing the realness and relatability of the characters to life in a way that makes it feel like you are a detective and apart of the fold to solving the case. She does just that with Tempted, hitting you with a triple three punch experience…action packed, full of suspense, and of course romance. It is a read that is a wow factor from beginning to the end with pure reading enjoyment. It is suspense to another level and high on my list of book recommendations. Tempted can be enjoyed as a stand-a-lone read but trust me, you will want to read the others in this amazing “Atlanta’s Finest” series. Tempted and other books by Sharon C. Cooper can be found where books are sold and on her website at www. sharonccooper.net
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I could taste the flavors it was so delicious! It had different spices and the cilantro was strong which I loved. The only thing missing was the home cooked country cornbread. This restaurant place services various cultures but is known as “BOGA Latin Cuisine.” It is definitely a must try if you are ever in the Norcross Georgia area.
Have you ever tried this local Latina Restaurant in Georgia called, BOGA? It’s located At 5942 Buford Hwy #193, Norcross, GA 30071. Recently, one Monday before my “Focus Forward with Robin Show” in Atlanta, I traveled to meet a friend who wanted to introduce me to the flavor of the Latin lamb chops at this welcoming cuisine place. We sat at the bar and to my left you could see a large window where the three Chefs that day did their magic. I had the 10oz oven roasted rack of lamb that was marinated with rosemary and the house secret recipe served with a drizzle of Balsamic Reduction. As a side dish, I had the mofongos that consisted of plantains that was embedded with fried plantains & greens mashed together with salt, garlic, and olive oil. The flavor of the lamb chops were tasty and tender, but I wasn’t a fan of the mashed mofongos. However, I also did have a few pieces of my friends sushi, the Nijao rolls that were rolled with cooked teriyaki pollo - a.k.a. chicken, Philadelphia cream cheese, bacon, aguacate - a.k.a. avocado, plantains and white sushi rice & seweed. Not sure what the white drizzle was, but it was very tasty. So, if you don’t eat raw fish a.k.a. sushi, but would like the idea of eating it, this is the perfect dish. Mexican Chips & salsa was also served. I am a huge fan of raw fish served the authentic way called sushi, but this dish was served warm and with a great taste. On the weekends, I’m told they have the bongos playing with the band members and the place has a great environment. The owner, “Tito” also served me a sample of the bean soup, as us Americans call it pinto beans, but with juices.
Robin Shockley- Legacy/Visionary Leader. TalkShow Host. Community Advocate. Professional Maximizer Entrepreneur. Motivational Speaker. Actress. Author/BLOGGER & Magazine Columnist. R.Shockley18@gmail.com (864) 313-4964 THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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