The Orange Magazine - Vol 3

THE

ORANGE

GIVING YOU THE FRUIT OF THE INDUSTRY

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Page Page 33

Full Force’s

Paul Anthony

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Founder Michael Neely CEO Rasheed J. Neely Aaliyah Neely Editors Aidem Media Group David R. Navarro Jimmy Star Eileen Shapiro Russ Ray

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Table of Contents Page 3-4 Paul Anthony of Full Force Page 7-11 Smiley Gatmouth Page 12-13 Two Feet Page 14-15 Toquon Tha MC

Page 16-18 Lexy Pettis

Page 27-28 Danae Simone

Page 19-20 Mason Jar Revival

Page 29-31 Kanon Lebron

Page 21-22 Star Crystal

Page 32-34 Wicked Witch

Page 23-26 Jah Kings

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Paul Anthony

Brooklyn is definitely in the house when you talk about the birth of the legendary R&B singers, songwriters and producers Full Force. They have survived the test of time and produced some of the hottest acts in the music industry.They are recognized in the industry as icons and will go down in history as a major force.

The group consist of brothers Paul Anthony, Lucien “Bowlegged Lou” George Jr. and Brian “B Fine” George along with cousins Junior “Shy Shy” Clark, Gerry “Baby Gee” Charles and Curt “Curt-T-T” Bedeau.

As a group, you guys have written and produced music for some of today’s hottest artist, can you name some of them?

Actually, it’s more like we’ve worked with Legendary and established artists, like: Rihanna, Patti Labelle, Justin Timberlake, James Brown, Becky G, Selena, Backstreet Boys, Sheila E, Britney Spears & Many more.

What is your latest project?

We have a new artist named Brian Inerfeld, and our next single’s a Tribute to Kobe Bryant.

Mr. Paul Anthony, how did you come about giving glory to God? I’ve always given Kudos to the Father. If you check out our very first Lp, it ends with a song called “The Man Upstairs”.

Who is Paul Anthony?

P.A. Is a Legendary Singing, Songwriting, Producing, Acting, Health&Fitness Influencer, Light-worker, Servant, Leader...

And just a nice guy!

What is Paul Anthony doing? and where does this journey take you?

My Purpose ultimately is to touch, change and save lives thru the gifts he’s given me.

Doing the music and being multi-talented, what do you feel is your best features as a songwriter and producer?

For me a song’s greatest ingredients are the melody and the beat.

In the UnSung TV show, do you feel that they did not tell you the whole story?

Love to my friend Cathy Hughes. She did UnSung and an UnSung Revisited on us. Covered much.

What is your website?

My site for my Cancer Champion Foundation is: https://palivelife.ning.com/

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There you can make donations and you’ll also find many things on me including the handmade outfit I wore on The Breakfast Club morning radio show. I’ve received thousands of inquiries.

What is your group, Full Force’s website?

The group’s site is: http://www.fullforceworld.com/new/ What genre of music do you consider your work to be?

Full Force musical reach covers almost all genres.

How did it come about producing Rhianna’s album?

With RiRi, we go way back with my Brooklyn Brothers JayZ & TyTy. They signed Rihanna.

Paul Anthony, Foxy Brown and Bowlegged Lou.

Who was the most fun to work with?

My most enjoyable productions have been our family of artists: Cheryl Pepsii Riley, Ex-Girlfriend, UTFO, The Real Roxanne & Hitman Howie Tee and Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam. When you sing with your brothers, what songs do you perform most frequently?

When we Perform, we ALWAYS gotta do “Ain’t My Type Of Hype”.

Have you ever play any covers?

And we love doing great cover songs. Especially slow joints.

When you sing with your brothers, what songs do you perform most frequently?

My favorite topics are Love, Sex, Positivity & God.

Paul Anthony, Rhianna and Bowlegged Lou

What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?

Like any obstacle, you face it head on, lock into the “mind, body and spirit” connection and never say never!

What’s your ultimate direction for Paul Anthony?

My ultimate goal is to touch, change and save lives.

Actually, to continue doing so..

Babyface, B-Fine, A.J.Johnson, Paul Anthony, Gladys Knight, Bowlegged Lou, and Reggie Hudlin.

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Kid, Doc Ice of UTFO, Bowlegged Lou, ShyShy, Curt-t-t, Lisa Lisa, MJ, Paul Anthony, B-Fine, Cheryl Pepsii Riley & Play.

Paul Anthony, Play , Bowlegged Lou, Kid and B-Fine.

Smiley Gatmouth a.k.a. Elijah Lynch

When did you first get into music?

That’s a tough one. Music, for me, was a seed that grew slowly. I began tip-toeing into it as a toddler, and I am still inching my way forward to this day. Some of my earliest memories are of sitting in the middle seat of my dad’s pickup truck. Nestled between him and my brother, we’d sing along to the tapes in his cassete deck, listen to Kool 105 on occasion, and recite lyrics that he wrote to teach us about things like times tables and traffic lights.

“Red means stop, green means go, yellow means… go sloooooow.” I know you can’t hear the melody, but I doubt if I’ll ever forget it. But, I was a terrible singer, though. Even for my age.

I remember freestyling in 5th grade, and writing erroneously inappropriate raps and parodies that my friends and I would recite on the back of the school bus. I remember a particular notebook being full these lyrics. I remember because it ended up getting confiscated and we all got in trouble.

I guess it was at the very end of middle school that I got more serious about it. I would say that’s when it began to emerge as a passion.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

There were 3 major influences, to each of which I am incredibly grateful.

Jefferson County Open School—the high school from which I graduated—is a truly special place, for which there are no words. I remember taking a tour of the school, shortly before I transferred there from my miserable (regular) middle school. Among the bewildering sights I saw that day was a three piece band, unsanctioned and comprised of unkempt high schoolers, playing in the middle of the hallway. Like, straight jamming, in the middle of the hall, in the middle of the school day, no teachers sweating them or anything.

It was the first time I ever saw an upright bass. The way that place nurtured my creativity was vital.

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The Denver poetry scene, in those days, was legendary. This community, brimming with incredible writers, performers and artists, basically took me in and trained me.

Photo Credit: Monalicious

Finally, there was my mother. In her, I had a role model—an example of what it looked like to live as an artist. When I was very young, she got hit by a car outside of her studio. It was a very serious—she suffered severe injuries, including brain damage.

About a year later, she got out of the hospital and discovered that she had lost the motor functions necessary to operate a potters wheel, which was her primary tool. The perseverance, the dedication, the passion and the grit that I witnessed growing up, as she fought her way back into a full time career as an artist, reinventing every aspect of her craft along the way—I think that’s what gave me the courage to dedicate myself to such an uncertain career path.

Photo above: In the Youth Media Studio at Youth on Record.

How would you describe the music that you create?

I wouldn’t. I mean, I can’t. I mean, ok. I should try. My music is emotional. Whitty. Grimy. Philosophical. Out of key at times. Worth a listen, most definitely.

I KNOW, that when people look at me, they find this very hard to believe, but I am a god emcee. My bread and butter is rapping, but I dabble pretty far outside that lane. If you peep my music, you will likely come across some acoustic singer-songwriter, folky type stuff. If you see me live, all bets are off.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

Oohhh boy. That’s a tough one. Artistry, for me, has been such a long journey, so full of changes, turns and seasons.

If I were to sum it up though, I’d say that the biggest change in my artistry has been that it has slowly but surely started to come together. I’ve delved into so many different types of music, art and performance over the years. Deeply.

But I think for a while, everything I did lived in a separate box. I did poetry. I rapped. I played ukulele. I tried to sing.

Parodies. Theatre. Bougie, contemporary, art gallery exhibition type stuff. And in the shower, I lead a huge 1920s swing band ensemble. But, I avoided doing more than one of these things in the same context—on the same day even.

Admittedly, I don’t shower every day.

What has changed—and where I have really found the most comfort, freedom and enthusiasm in my music so far, is that over time, the many forms I’ve created worked melded into one, extremely odd voice.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Loneliness sounds like too bleak an answer, no? I think at this point, whatever that emotion is that compels us to have a sense of self—of identity—a need to be seen, heard and acknowledged —that desire to understand ourselves by connecting with others, that is the most significant emotion(s) for me.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in a genre overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I think more than anything, my secret ingredient is… a secret. Even from me. I’ve been bugging my muses about it for years. If they ever get back to me on that, I’ll let you know.

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

I asked a friend of mine about this, at a time when I was particularly frustrated with my creative process. He described my big obstacle as “Self-Doubt and ADHD.” And I couldn’t have found better words. Organizing my ideas is tough.

Same for my time and energy. Confidence has a way of wondering off. I’m working on it. It’s gotten better. It’s still a journey.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

My thoughts on this are dramatic. Complicated, and a wee bit conflicted. In short—no, I do not believe you must suffer for your art. I think that there are many forces at play that encourage us to take such an attitude—social pressures and

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our happiness etc. for our work. ideologies that absolutely encourage us to embrace a life of sacrificing our well-being, our relationships, our integrity, For artists, this is a fairly salient and palpable narrative. With a particularly dramatized flare and romance to it. But really, I think it’s just a different version of the same story that is told within any profession. At least any profession that is understood to carry hopes of autonomy—any one which provides the possibility of personal advancement and accomplishment, rather than strict servitude for money. Any job that we might understand as a ‘career,’ I think, encourages suffering for success.

In a sense, embracing that idea is the path of least resistance. The easier option to choose; the more difficult one to live with. But, ultimately, I believe that seeking the joy in your craft will lend itself to more success, better art and a happier you. And yes, of course, for my art, I have suffered tremendously.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

Look, I don’t really get the Internet. Obviously, its impact on the business has been enormous. And at the same time, things haven’t changed as much as they may seem. And at the same time, of course they have. It’s quite similar, I think, to what has happened in any era in which new technologies have disrupted an industry. For example within music, include the piano roll, the microphone, the phonograph… remember when video killed the radio star?

I don’t. I wasn’t born yet.

Things change. Creation becomes more accessible. Access to the materiel rewards are then narrowed and organized into fewer hands. Then a new invention comes and scrambles the game up again. I’m probably oversimplifying it, but whatever. I do think that the situation with Covid-19 will likely catalyze a leap forward in terms of how music business operates on (and off) the Internet. I think we’ll see some notable new norms on the other side of this.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

I think I would eliminate superstars. Less stars, and more artists earning reasonable livings with their craft. Less hype around stardom, and less stigma about being a creator who hasn’t blown up like that. More celebration and exuberance for the common doneness that flows from all directions, from across the spectrums of the human condition.

And, something which I feel is quite related to that—I wish that music was utilized as a vehicle to teach young people ideas that would be good for them. I wish popular music offered a healthier discourse, because it is profoundly influential. Or if not healthy, at least a little more varied.

I guess, I believe that as a society, we could engage music in a way that fostered our collective well being. If the music industry wasn’t dominated by the same headless-beast that drives the industry in general. All I know, is that today, great art is everywhere. There’s simply way too much out there for me to feel alright about. The fact that I’ve heard over 2 songs by Post Malone.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today and why?

Ok, I’m gonna be honest… I skipped this question at first. I thought I would get away with it, but then I got a message talkin bout “you skipped a question,” and I was like, “ok.”

I’m not as big into albums as most musicians. I mean, I have listened to plenty, especially in the context of CD, tapes and cassettes, but albums that made me who I am? Like, in a non butterfly-effect way? Look, I’m a millennial—I grew up with iTunes, YouTube and LimeWire. Plus, I mentioned before, the ADHD thing.

Even the artists whose catlouges I know best, I really dug through song-by-song. Albums are long for me.

I feel like that’s very uncool to say. Sue me.

Of course, when I accepted that I was gonna have to answer this, and I started thinking on it more and listing albums. Next thing I knew, I had listed more than 5 and I didn’t know which ones to cut... I did my best.

9 Photo Credit: Monalicious

To Pimp A Butterfly – Kendrick Lamar It happened to come out at a time when I needed it. It’s such a brilliant, creative, complex album, and it helped me get through some trials and tribulations.

The Beatles Anthology Vol. 2, Disc 2 –The Beatles This particular project helped me accept the fact that I tend to prefer a raw, edgy song over a super polished one and that it’s perfectly fine to make this type of art if that’s what is calling me. Like in music, and life in general, I was often getting wrapped up in struggling to present myself with smooth-around-the-edgesness that I didn’t even care for.

And as I was identifying that within myself, I was really fascinated with this jawnt.

Personal Playlist—Lizzo Before you go running to google, lemme just tell you that Lizzo does not have an album called personal playlist.

Rather, I just decided to declare my own Lizzo playlist from 2017 an album for the sake of this question, because Lizzo did change my life more than any other musician who I do not know personally. By far.

Like TPAB, Lizzo’s music came into my life right when I needed it. And, like TPAB, I know that the music was not written for me… but nonetheless, I have a deep, emotional bond with these songs. They were incredibly healing.

Hurt Feelings—Flight of the Conchords What I love about this album, and band, is that it doesn’t choose between comedy and musicality. It is incredibly rare for an artist to fully commit to both and really pull it off.

I think that we experience discomfort around being emotionally moved by something we understand to be ‘a joke.’ It’s almost as if there is an inherent contradiction in something that is both serious and hilarious. That’s whack, imo.

My wife has this project on vinal, so I’ve listened to it many times, and it has done it’s part in helping me to accept the multi-faceted nature of things. To shake off the habit of compartmentalizing my emotions and to let life be funny and sad and stupid and brilliant all at once. And really embracing the power of a good joke amidst a heavy moment.

Acid Rap—Chance the Rapper When Acid Rap dropped, it was super affirming to me. I had never felt so connected to a hip-hop artist who was on the come up like that. The personality that comes through in that project—that particular blend of conscious & triflin & deep & clever & not-gangster but also not, like, above being a little gutter… and the whole ill writer, and not great singer whose gunna sing a little bit anyway thing… It was just so me. Seeing him do his thing to such enthusiastic reception helped me lean into myself a bit more.

Tell us about your current project?

Which one?!? Lol. I’ve got a lot in the works. Projects on projects on external hard drives and to do lists.

I had plans to record 2 Eps over the summer—one straight hip-hop, and one that leans more on the folk side. However, the studio where I record (and work, S/O to Youth on Record) is closed for the quarantine, and I’m preparing to be flexible with the relatively ambitious plans I had set for the summer.

What is a ‘project’ anyway? When you think about it, I mean…

What’s next for you?

I’m getting back into the more conventional-artist grind of writing, performing and releasing music, as well as the accompanying array of tasks that is necessary for that music to contribute to a career. For most of my life, as an artist, that’s what got the lions-share of my time and attention. I was writing. All the time. For years.

Ok, admittedly, the lions-share of that lions-share went to the fun part. I’ve never put as much time or energy into the

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business side of things as I thought I should. But I digress.

A couple years ago, I decided to set aside that lifestyle, and put that pursuit on the backburner. I needed a break. I was deep into that suffer-for-your art lifestyle. The fun parts had faded to the background. I was pretty miserable.

Frankly, I was unwell. I shifted my focus entirely towards teaching music, and learning music production. That was the move for me. No doubt. Teaching, at least for me, is profoundly fulfilling. It can be challenging. But that’s part of what makes it so rich. It feeds my Soul. And, sadly, music wasn’t filling my soul in the way anymore. My poor little soul. It was famished. I had lost sight of some things. Now, my soul is full. Dare I say, thick.

The last couple years have been rich with growth, healing and maturation. By no means, do I plan to stop teaching.

And music production has become a passion, no doubt. Producing for other artists is waaaaaay more fun than I had expected. Through this hiatus, I have developed a new lease on life. But, as I developed this new lease, I felt the joy of writing and performing slowly return to the forefront. Gigging, playing and writing, though less frequent than in the past. It has become more fun. More than that, creating feels deep again. I have rediscovered my passion for it. And, I think I’ve grown into a person who can do it without all the suffering being at its center. It’s calling me. So, in a sense, I think my next move is a lifestyle change, which includes getting back to making tracks.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

Look up Carousel by Smiley Gatmouth, either on spotify or google. If you’re so moved, you can find additional projects and songs scattered throughout Bandcamp, SoundCloud and Google.

And, if your so inclined, click follow, and keep an eye out in the coming months.

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Two Feet

New Album: “Pink”

New York based, platinum-certified rising superstar, “Two Feet” has just revealed his brand new full length debut album “Pink” via Republic Records on March 13th, 2020. Two Feet’s (aka Bill Dess) velveteen voice and soulful guitar playing hits you like a raging tsunami and a gentle, fluorescent snow angel lying in the midst of a cool white avalanche both at the same time.

Priding himself on his electrifying live performances, Two Feet made his mark with the release of his viral sensation “Go Fuck Yourself.” He toured for sold out audiences in 2018 and plans a massive tour in support of “Pink” sometime this year. I had an intimate conversation with Two Feet regarding his career, his inspiration and future hopes…. He has an innocent quality of confidence and honesty that seems very refreshing.

How did you arrive at the name Two Feet?

Honestly, I give a bunch of different answers for it.

Give me the one you like the most.

In the movie “Jerry McGuire” they were watching an old movie and the quote from the movie was, “there is an insidious disgusting monster that walks around the earth on two feet and it’s a human.”

When I heard that line, I decided that was a good name.

That’s a good answer.

Thank you.

Congrats on your new release, what inspired “Pink” and the rest of your song writing?

It’s different each time. Most of the time for me I have the chords, and the melody is written first. Then I attach a lyrical meaning to it afterwards, because I can find the tone of the song lyrically after the music is there.

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That’s generally how I do it. Sometimes I start with the drumbeat and then come up with a melody after that, but that’s a little bit more rare for me.

What inspired you to make a career out of the music business?

I guess, I decided this right after I left high school. I always had a thing for music and I didn’t really care. You take the risk and you don’t think about it. This is what I want to do, I don’t really care what happens.

I had a part-time job and I decided to commit. You have to believe in yourself.

Do you feel you were destined to be a song writer?

I think there is really nothing else I could do. I was never good at school. I was never good at following directions. I can’t really work in a scheduled environment so it was always going to be something creative.

If you could have your ultimate stage fantasy what would need to happen?

I guess I’d really like to sell out an arena on my own. I’d like to sell out MSG, that would be an ultimate stage fantasy.

I’ve played a bunch of arenas as an opener in direct support and stuff like that. I’m from New York so selling out Madison Square Garden would be an ultimate stage fantasy for me.

Do you have an idol or someone who influenced you?

Yeah. Prince and David Bowie. Prince even though he’s like crazy famous he is still super underrated. Especially for his guitar playing skills. He’s just such an insane musician.

If you could help me ask you any question in the world what would it be in how would you answer it?

I feel like people don’t ask me about my live set because my live show is super unique and different. It’s one of my most proud achievements for the past 16 months because before I started this project, I played in traditional bands, Grateful Dead cover bands.... but this live show that we have now is just immensely complex. All the equipment added together is well over $100,000. We worked for almost 2 years to develop it the way it is. Honestly, I’m super bummed out right now because it looks like more and more stuff is getting canceled and it will be a little bit longer before I can show it to people.

Even though all of these things are being postponed when this thing ends everyone is going to need and want to get out to see all the canceled concerts and music.

I know... it’s going to be like victory day after World War II. I think it might be bigger, totally crazy. The longest I’ve ever gone without playing a live show is maybe 3 weeks, so it really feels like a chunk of my identity has been robbed.

What do you enjoy most about playing live?

There is just a huge difference between rehearsing with your friends, which is still fun, and playing in front of fans.

Even if you’re like an opener....it’s really weird....it’s like a drug! It’s the craziest high ever, playing in front of people.

Barring Coronavirus, where do you want to be in five years?

I hope to have a couple of MSG’s sold out.

I think you will!

I hope so....

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Toquon Tha MC

Hottest MC in the Game!

When did you first get into music?

When did I first get into music? I think the question IS, when did music get into me… because I would say from the Womb. I’ve been entertaining and really knowing that I loved it, as far back as 3 years old.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in Hip Hop? First, I would say, who inspired me early as a kid was MJ Jackson 5. Then, I would have to say, RUN DMC. It just didn’t get no better that that, in my opinion.

How would you describe the music that you create?

How would I describe my style of music? Spiritual Boom Bap Hip Hop music.

Tell us about your work with Beat Junkies’ DJ, DJ Icy Ice. What’s it like working with the world famous beat junkie DJ Icy Ice? Two words, GREAT CHEMISTRY. It’s a must have to rock any crowd.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

How has my music evolved from me first getting in the game?

I would have to say, in a Major way, because I understand how to produce a record even more so now.

You’ve met a lot of interesting artists over the years. Tell us one of your most memorable stories.

One of the greatest moments of me meeting someone famous, was when I met RUN DMC in 1987. I told them I rap, then Jam Master Jay told me to kick a rhyme, so I freestyled for them and RUN beatboxed for me.

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If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

What drives me to stay in this business is Passion. Because, I can’t even pray it away… trust me, I’ve tried. When I felt that maybe this isn’t for me.

Toquon Tha MC and Snoop Dogg

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in a genre overflowing with new faces and ideas?

What’s the main ingredient of being a unique artist, is TALENT, ORIGINALITY and being a GREAT live performer.

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

My biggest challenge as a performer would have to be self-promoting. But, I overcame it by watching old footage of Muhammad Ali. He was the best at it. LOL A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Do I agree that you have to suffer for your art? I guess in some ways, because I’ve suffered financially by not knowing my worth and understanding how to negotiate and get my money situated up front.

Toquon Tha MC and Nipsey Hussle

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

I feel that the internet has impacted the music business Majorly, because now you really don’t need a record deal to blow up like Chance the Rapper and others.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

I can change the music industry, I would 1st get rid of the corny ass gate keepers that know nothing about the culture. Then, bring back INCREDIBLE TALENT like, MJ, Stevie, Marvin, Prince and LL Cool J.

Toquon Tha MC and DJ Icy Ice

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today?

The 5 albums that have influenced me most are: 1. Thriller, 2. King of Rock, 3. Raising Hell, 4. Long live the Kane, 5. It takes a nation of millions Because of mind blowing production lyrical skills and subject matter.

Tell us about your current project?

My current project is called “Party Rock Kings”. Where we are producing party break records for the clubs.

What’s next for you?

What’s next for me, is getting past this Corona lockdown and getting back out on the road, rocking live shows and making money, man!

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How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

You can hear my musician SoundCloud @ToquonThaMC and look up my videos on YouTube by searching Toquon Tha MC and Soul Elevation.

Toquon Tha MC with Loose Ends

Lexy Pettis

Singer-Songwriter

When did you first get into music?

I was 16 years old messing around in my room when my older brother came in and started telling me about his garage-grunge-rock band in need of a drummer, I wasn’t really paying attention until he said “You’re gonna do it.” I said “What?! I’ve never played an instrument in my life!” He continued to say “Just keep a friggin beat dude.” So I did, then my senior year I took one semester of guitar. First song I ever learned was Lynard Skynard’s “Simple Man” and I started to realize I could take those chords, rearrange them and create my own songs. See, I’ve always been a writer but then I discovered I could be a writer with a journal that I sing.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My older brother, Montana.

How would you describe the music that you create?

Real, Honest and from the heart.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

My guitar playing of course has evolved tremendously due to just the amount of playing I do. My harmonics on guitar (which consists of taps and flicks on the neck of the guitar) has tightened up and my lyrics have expanded to reflect the stories of not just myself but also about the inspiring lives of others who write in to me for songs.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Passion. I cannot explain it, really it is just God, but music is innate for me. I have the ability to hear it, feel it, write it, transform it, express it and people who hear my music have described it as an “experience” rather than just a performance.

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Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in a genre overflowing with new faces and ideas?

My guitar guitar tapping and harmonics make my playing very unique. As for the writing I think my ability to create songs at the drop of a hat from whomever requests one, whether it be about: love, betrayal, sadness, etc. I can make it, and I can make it to express exactly what the person writes to me or tells me, making it more personal and meaningful for them and me. I have even been told by some that my music has changed their life.. now that is really something.

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

Staying financially steady and stable. There is always merchandise to be made and sold ( the primary source of income for a musician). There’s always equipment to be acquired, travel expenses, Licensing to certify and it gets rather tough living off the far from satisfactory prices these venues pay.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Yes. I have been criticized for some of my honesty. I’ve been belittled by the some elder conservatives who don’t believe in the idea of “Chasing you Dreams” but rather recommend obtaining a typical corporate job. I’ve dealt with a lot, but ultimately I find my music which at times causes suffering for me helps others escape the suffering their in.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

Tremendously, from a marketing perspective the internet has been a wonderful tool to get my music out there, to interact with people from all over the world and really expand.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

The drive to influence our youth into a more promiscuous, immoral way of life and the acceptance for mediocre song writing on our radio stations.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today?

“Surfacing” – Sarah McLachlan “Greatest Hits” - The Grass Roots “Greatest Hits” - Fleetwood Mac “Brothers in Arms” - Dire Straits “This Time” - Dwight Yoakam

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Tell us about your current project?

Creating more merchandise to sell: shirts, caps, notebooks, pens, pencils; I really want to sell merchandise that initiates writing, creating, things that are useful and inspiring. Getting more music recorded, mastered and out on digital streaming platforms.

Creating a comfortable income with what I love to do.

What’s next for you?

I’m sure even my wildest dreams couldn’t imagine whats next and whats in store, but whatever it is, I’m ready.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

Check out my music on all digital streaming platforms! Thats: Lexy Pettis on: Spotify, iTunes, Google Play and Amazon Music.

Be sure to Subscribe: @Youtube.com/lexypettis You can learn about upcoming shows and my music at: www.lexypettis.com Photo credits: Patrick Baldonado Photography, Mrs. Bethany Jessen

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Mason Jar Revival Rock Stars on the Move!

What first got you into music?

Listening to AM radio every morning with my mom…yeah, I’m THAT old.

Who inspired you to make music?

My mother and grandfather.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

You ever seen the grease under a mechanic’s fingernails? Yeah, that’s it. Grimy, muddy, and thick.

What is your creative process like?

It just kind of hits me out of the blue. When it does, I don’t stop until whatever I’m working on is completed…then it’s on to the next task.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

It’s a three-way tie…Townes Van Zandt, Geddy Lee, and Ronnie Van Zant. Dave Mustaine and Merle Haggard are up there too.

If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?

Joan Jett.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Thank you for putting up with Mason Jar Revival! Much Love!

What is the most useless talent you have?

I’m a bass player…so, playing bass.

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Do you sing in the show? And what songs?

No, If I did, it would have to be “Momma had a baby, named him Tim… put him in the bath tub to learn him how to swim… drank all the water, ate all the soap, awoke the next morning with a bubble in his throat…” etc., etc.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

Probably living in a higher tax bracket!

Where have you performed?

All over Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, Missouri…I’ve played in Nashville, Iowa, North and South Dakota, and an ice hockey arena in Winnipeg…also Louisville, Kansas, and a bunch of other places.

What is your favorite and least favorite venues?

Hey, if they are willing to pay me and the guys to play, they are all my favorites.

Do you have any upcoming shows?

Yes, a bunch…you can see our schedule on our Facebook page or at www.reverbnation.com/MasonJarRevival. I’m sure RARUSA can hook you up too.

We heard you are signed to Rock Avenue Records USA. How did that come about?

Our management at the time hooked us up with them. Louis and Mary Ann are great people. I have enjoyed working with them, and look forward to continuing to do so for a long time.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

It’s completely changed everything. I came up in the 1990s as a musician…its nothing like that now. As with anything, there are positives and negatives. The internet allows many more musicians to get out there and be heard, but it also means there is a lot crappier music reaching audiences nowadays. It feels like sensory overload sometimes.

What is your favorite song to perform?

One of our originals on our debut album with RARUSA entitled, “Hate to See You Leave (but love to watch you go)” Which famous musicians do you admire?

I’m not really built that way. I am inspired by their technique and feel… that being said, as a bass player, Geddy Lee, John Entwistle, Geezer Butler, Les Claypool, Justin Chancellor, Jaco Pastorius, Tal Wilkenfeld, Esperanza Spalding, and, the legendary, Carol Kaye.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

I’m from the Ozark hills and have always raised livestock…grew up on a pig and dairy farm…I’m a hillbilly hayseed for sure. My grandad told me one time, “boy, take care of your stock and they’ll take care of you.” He told me that basically to help me understand that sometimes you have to take risks in order to feed your family, but your family will be there to help you if you keep them fed.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I know I’m going to sound ancient even though I’m a proud member of GenX, but I really hate what has happened to mainstream country music. I get the money aspect as well as the necessity to appeal to popular culture, but it is unbearable to me. I really miss Waylon, Vern Gosdin, Earl Thomas Conley, John Conley, Barbara Mandrell, Johnny Cash… the list goes on and on. What’s funny is this…my parents and grandparents griped about the same thing regarding the names I just listed, and hearkened back to the days of Marty Robins, Faron Young, Patsy Cline, etc., etc. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

What’s next for you?

Work…hopefully I’ll get to keep working at it for many more years.

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Star Crystal

Rockers with a Twist!

What first got you into music?

Elijah: Fate brought us to music, we were born already as rockers in the soul Eugene: The great desire to be on the other side of a stage Alex: Every person is born with some talent, some ignores it and chooses money. In my case, I was born as a musician. And when I was young, I watched Hollywood movies and I loved that music and then decided to play it.

Susanna: I was born already with this desire to be in music. I wanted to become a famous singer.

Who inspired you to make music?

Susanna: I’ve always liked singers with a strong growl in their vocals. Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Dibri Mills, Vixen and many strong singers were and are examples for her.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

A song must have cool riffs, mind blowing solo and sexy keyboards tune.

Whole song describe emotions of lovers and all positive emotions in the world.

In general it’s music from the 80’s.

What is your creative process like?

Some one of us bring an idea (mostly it is Alex) of a song or we jam and begin creation of the song Who would you most like to collaborate with?

The main thing in this work is punctuality and planning for further actions. No matter who it is or which company, the main thing is seriousness and dedication to work.

If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be?

It would be many bands playing our glam 80 style and individual singers of that time.

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What is one message you would give to your fans?

Listen to good music that will evoke a feeling of love, passion, kindness in you.

Do you sing in the shower? What songs?

Most often these are our songs that are still being created. Or the song I hear first when I wake up. Also our songs dancing all night, don’t give up, John.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

We would live a routine life, wouldn’t see the world, don’t know what a thrill it is to perform on huge stages in front of a thousand people.

Where have you performed?

We had three European tours, We performed in Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy and Croatia.

What are your favorite and least favorite venues?

We really love Zagreb’s hard place, Arad’s club fles, and Plovdiv’s Polinero place.

Do you have any upcoming shows?

Yes we are going to do shows in Great Britain, France and German.

And some summer festivals in Europe.

We heard you are signed to Rock Avenue Records USA? How did that come about?

It was much unexpected. We were searching for a label. We spend our nights and send emails with our info to labels and one day we got an answer, it was the cool guys from Rock Avenue Records.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

The internet has been impacting tremendously. Now you can easily find a new hot band to listen to or watch huge gigs while just sitting at home but it’s just imitations of real emotions What is your favorite song to perform?

We have a lot of favorite songs. Don’t Give Up, Dancing All Night, and Miracle.

Which famous musicians do you admire?

Doug Aldrich, Paul Gilbert, Richard Sambora, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Tommy Aldridge, Billy Sheehan What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Love what you do. And work hard on your talent.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

Around the world, a lot of pop music rotates. I would equally distribute all the styles.

What’s next for you?

We will always work in music. As long as God helps us in this and gives us strength, opportunities and health.

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JAH KINGS

Funky Roots Reggae

When did the group first get into music? Start playing together?

On behalf of the JAH KINGS Family, I am most honored for this opportunity. I am Kofi Alexander, founder, principle songwriter, and leader of the JAH KINGS Funky Roots Reggae Band. The JAH KINGS started with myself, Kofi Alexander and K.C. Jones in Gary, IN in 1989, right after then Alex Washington walked away from competing in World Class Track on the U.S. National Team after the 1988 Olympic Trials in Indianapolis, IN. The Band debut at an outdoor show at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, MI in 1990. Soon after ,I moved back Kalamazoo, MI, we played our first show at a Mexican restaurant called Carlos Murphy’s the day Desert Storm was launched in Iraq in 1991.

What or Who inspired the band to pursue a career in music?

I was inspired to get back to my music after being turned on to Reggae by a Cuban friend Orlando Rolstone and his cousin Hyme Gordon. This occurred while I was attending Western Michigan University on a track scholarship between 1981-1985 in Kalamazoo,MI. They turned me on to Steel Pulse’s TRUE DEMOCRACY album and I was hooked immediately as my soul longed for African Culture and PanAfricanism. I had previously performed professionally back in Gary, IN with my band BORN TO LOVE, an R&B Soul band, when I was teenager in the mid 70’s. We had a manager and we performed in the same talent shows, clubs, and schools in the same neighborhood as the Jackson 5 and aspired to follow them! We had a powerful musical culture in Gary, IN and I was groomed by the best musically and professionally, specifically by my Second Dad James Rollins who bought me a 1976 Custom Gibson Les Paul after I proved myself as we had agreed. He told me that I was good in track but that my gift to the world was music!

But my Mother guided me to pursue college and to return to the music later. She also said that it would have to be a scholarship because the family couldn’t afford to support me financially.

So, after becoming a state champion my senior year for the state of Indiana, the first year competing in the 110 Meter High Hurdles, and running on a broken ankle, I a earned a full track scholarship at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI. After graduating, I continued competing in World Class Track. I was invited to run on the U.S. National Track Team and to represent the U.S at the Pacific Coast Games against Japan, and Canada. It was in an airplane returning home from this nationally televised track meet on ESPN, that I won and set a track record, is when I heard the WAILERS, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer’s song, CONCRETE JUNGLE. It reminded of me of and described the tough streets of Gary,IN where I Roots Reggae Music! So having a strong musical foundation, the professional background, and years of continued

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experienced the Gang Life and all sorts of difficulties! I felt and knew that this was the music that I was made to play.. practice on my 1976 Custom Gibson Les Paul, I knew that I would bring something unique to the genre of Reggae.

My decision was made when I experienced a bomb threat while in Belfast, Ireland in 1988. I was touring on the U.S. National Track and Field Team preparing for the Oympic Trials. Under constant guard of Soldiers, driving passed burning cars, we were rushed out of the hotel just after arrival from the track meet. In the rain we waited as the bomb squad searched for the bomb. It was then that I heard a voice which said “get back to the music”! JAH KINGS was born!

How would you describe the music that you create?

As far my process of music creation, I would describe it as “channeling” for every song that I have tried to sit down and write sucked to be honest. The music comes through usually after meditating, hiking, driving, after ceremony, or relaxing with the family. Sometimes a whole song with lyrics comes through complete, or the lyrics first, or the music first. Sometimes it’s just a bass line. And the message content comes from conversations with people, world affairs, dreams, or personal experiences. I would describe the sound of the music as Funky Roots Reggae on Steroids! Hence my songs OUR WORLD (2008), NOW (2004), ALL RIGHT (2007), and UNITE (2004). Growing up in Gary, between Detroit and Chicago, I was heavily influenced by Funk, Jazz, R&B, and Gospel, as well as country, rock, and big band Jazz by my dad James. So Jazz, Funk, R&B, Gospel is strong in the music, while paying big respect to the principles of Roots Reggae. Reggae Music is about recapturing one’s culture, which I have having African/Ashante’, Blackfoot Lakota, Cherokee/Choctaw Ancestry. So there are Native American seasonings as well hence my song WOUNDED KNEE(2011). It came through when I Sundanced for 4 years at Wounded Knee on the Pine Ridge Reservation in Pine Ridge, SD under the guidance of Sundance Chiefs Wesley Black Elk and Gerald Ice, direct descendants of Oglala Lakota Chiefs Black Elk and Crazyhorse. And finally, this music reflects our culture in that it brings messages and vibrations of the higher order to things to uplift, educate, guide, heal, push us to live life in more integrity and honor, and to stimulate critical thinking. It’s what our Ethiopian/Kemetic family called the Sacred Psalms/Sacred Songs. What our Lakota family calls the “Olewan Waste’”/Good Music…Musical Medicine. Music of the Troubadour quality.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

My music has evolved due my getting deeper into my culture and performing through challenging situations and high level concerts. I was heckled for 4 years by my Jamaican family in Kalamazoo, MI, urging me to pay respect to the whats and whys of Spiritual Roots Reggae music on and off the stage and to not to be a “culture vulture”. At that time I was not living in honor and integrity and didn’t realize what it took to be a true Spiritual Reggae Artist. They give me the business and whipped me in shape where I eventually earned their respect and blessings. I have opened up for the Four Tops, Bobby Womack, Phyllis Hyman, Journey, Foreigner, TLC, and Shai, as well as for top Reggae Acts Culture, Yellowman, Eekamouse, Everton Blender, the Itals, and Neville Duncan of the Ethiopians. Played many festivals, universities, schools, theaters, Unity Churches, Native Reservations, and clubs. I performed my song AFRIKAN DIASPORA(2008) live on national tv on KSM’s “Thank God It’s Friday” show when I visited Ghana West Africa in 2007. Also, I participated in the “Joseph Project. There I was received by the Government, Chiefs and Queen Mothers, the People, and visited the slave forts, particularly Cape Coast Castle in Accra. I wrote my Family’s names on the “Door of No Return”! We made it back! My songs AFRIKAN DIASPORA(2007), SIR MARKUS SAID(2008), STREETS OF ACCRA(2007), and SLAVERY(2007) came through after my visit! I came back a different person! Also, I must say that I realized later that the influences of the musical precision of Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis, the social commentation of both Marvin Gaye’s WHAT’S GOIN ON and Curtis Mayfield’s PUSHERMAN, and the Spiritual, Cultural, and musical power of Earth, Wind, and Fire, left a serious mark on me musically, socially, and culturally. And they were all high level musicians and performers.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Well, I would have to say that pride is the emotion that drive I and I to keep going on in this tough business! The pride that was exhibited and blasted through Conscious Roots Reggae brought to the four corners of the world by our Jamaican Rastafarian family, specifically by Bob Marley and the Wailers. Roots Reggae music’s purpose was for the upliftment and liberation of African People, whether in Africa or in the Diaspora, which is akin to the plight and struggles of our Native family as well. We were stolen and stripped from our Ancient Abbysinian/Ethiopian, Kemetic/Egyptian, and Oglala Lakota Cultures and getting back to it is the only way back home to a more abundant and healthy life Spiritually, Emotionally, Mentally, and Economically. We know and realize that we are standing on the shoulders of many who paid the price. Our Ancestors who live in and through us to restore our rightful place in the world as Melenated People, and for the co-creation of a better world for all of our human family and All Our Relations(Mitakuye Oyasin). And this includes Mother Earth and Our Animal Relatives! This is what we draw on to move through any challenges that comes for our Ancestors, this generation, and future generations are depending on us!

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Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in a genre overflowing with new faces and ideas?

The ingredient that makes the JAH KINGS unique and special is first there is the highest professional and music quality. It is my attention to channel music that will stand the test of time vocally and instrumentally. That is why me and my family were so honored when our LOVE CD(1999) was nominated “Best Reggae CD” and myself “Best Reggae Performer” at the 2002 Chicago Music Awards and Our NOW CD(2004) was nominated “Best World Music CD” at the 2004 Jammie Awards out of Grand Rapids, MI! Like Prince, I perform all or most instruments and vocals on the songs in the recording studio. I performed all vocals and instruments on AFRIKAN DIASPORA (2007) and PRAYER (2007). I performed 90% of the songs on our upcoming CD YOU! Then there is ours shows. With the current line-up of myself on drums and lead vocals, Tony E on percussion, Ryan Ford on keyboards and background vocals, Jacob Pesquiera on Lead Guitar and background vocals, and I QueenWife Isaline on percussion, we deliver a powerful highly spiritual and musical performance where we consistently are demanded for encores. Sometimes times 2 and 3 encores!. We also perform 2 hours sets because we feel that when people take the time to pay money to see us perform and lend their ear, they should leave the show well satisfied! Our shows are “Second to None’! A mutual musical Baptism that happens when the ALL MIGHTY Elect come together and celebrate as the Christ Race!! And finally, our messages are totally appropriate for these critical times hence my song CRITIKAL MASS(2008) which deals with climate change, JAH FREQUENCY(1995), PREJUDICE(1995), FIND A WAY(1999), CHANGE(1999), OUR WORLD(2008), NOW IS THE TIME(2004), BABYLON(1995), ALL RIGHT(2002), and many many more!

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

The biggest challenges comes from many fronts. First, there is keeping committed and dedicated musicians. I’m so thankful for the current line-up that I have been blessed with for each member are truely committed both on and off the stage. However, it’s not like it used to be when I was growing up in the 60’s and 70’s where bands stuck together, like it was a marriage, and went a got it together. Then musicians of all genres used their music for the betterment of the people spoke up against the war in Vietnam, or the Civil Rights Movement, or speaking on corruption whether. it be political or corporations who conducted bad business. Again, musicians had that Troubadour quality. They knew the power of music and felt that it was their duty to use it to influence the people for the better. Nowadays musicians are like mercenaries, only interested in the money while our world is going to hell in a handbasket. And by design, the Industry doesn’t sign music of any genre that inspires critical thinking and the clubs, venues, and festivals follow suit.

They only want the “popular” acts in social media and on youtube and if you don’t have numbers that they deem popular you are “irrelevant”. Talent will never be replaced by numbers! But this corona virus has changed everything!

Now, the people long for good, relevant music with a nutritional value to help give and them hope. Music that helps them to navigate through the coming changes, as opposed to music of a non nutritional value that is of low vibration and anti-life. Our music has a high nutritional value and we the JAH KINGS are primed to feed the people!

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

I agree with statement, “you must suffer for your art”. I have suffered financially by being looked over for the “popular” acts with less talent, especially in the genre of Reggae where there are plenty of “culture vultures” who care not for the continued struggles of Black people or the current state of the world. I have been signed with a label and after signing they demanded that I could not play my song OUR WORLD(2007). I ripped up the contract! I will never compromise I principles for money! I have had many tell me to give it up and others who’ve said that I’m wasting my time.

However, now many are requesting the music as many things that I have sung about from the 90’s to now have or are now coming to pass! And even though we have rocked so-called “established” acts off the stage and have earned the reputation that you better bring your “A-Game” if you follow the JAH KINGS, venues are reluctant pay us are due.

Once we rock the crowd and prove ourselves, the venues then comes around. This is why we have to stand firm in our resolve and demand what we are worth.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

As far as how the internet has impacted the music business in some ways the internet is awesome to check out and follow great artist and find great music that is not played on the popular radio stations because they are longer that required 3:00 minute eggs. Imagine if Queen’s BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY or James Brown’s FUNKY GOOD TIME was shredded to 3:00 minutes! Also, it is a great way to reach people all over the world. Our music is well appreciated from Wounded Knee, SD, throughout the U.S., to Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Europe. Ireland, and Amsterdam. So I would say that this is a positive impact. The negative impact is what I have mentioned before as far as being judged by numbers as opposed to content, musical mastery, and basically putting on a good show. I had one booking agent tell me that “It isn’t about the music anymore it’s about your social presence”. Jimmy Hendrix didn’t have a facebook page, twitter, or Instagram account. He was so tired of hocking his guitar for food and being used by big acts for chump change that he was so close to quitting. Had not one of his girlfriends turned him on to Chaz Chandler in

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England, we wouldn’t even have heard of a Jimmy Hendrix! In those days you toured, proved yourself to people, put on a wicked show, and gained your notoriety through hard work and commitment.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

If I would change anything it wouldn’t be the Industry. I would instead hope for a change of heart of the people to support music of higher nutritional value that inspires critical thinking! We are due for a “paradigm shift” in consciousness. When this happens, the people won’t support or purchase lower forms of music that keeps the people jacked in the Matrix based on fear, doubt, violence, disrespect of women, materialism, lack, fantasia, depression, sex, drugs, and rock and roll. The Industry ultimately is about profits and when upfull conscious music becomes popular, and is making money, they will follow the money!

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the group you are today and why?

The 5 albums that have helped make the JAH KINGS what we are today would be Marvin Gaye’s WHAT’S GOIN ON, Earth, Wind, and Fire’s SPIRIT, Curtis Mayfield’s SUPERFLY, the Wailer’s CATCH A FIRE, and Miles Davis’s KIND OF BLUE! The reasons why is all of these classic albums not only addressed the difficulties in economically and culturally deprived neighborhoods and places in the world, but they also brought solutions through songs of redemption and overcoming struggle. They dealt with the reality of the times on a world wide scale whether, it was the disrespect of Mother Earth as Marvin Gaye dealt with on MERCY MERCY ME, the traps of inner city life with Curtis Mayfields’ FREDDIES DEAD, honoring Mother Earth as Earth, Wind, and Fire did through the song EARTH WIND AND FIRE, and speaking of Love as the Wailers did through NO MORE TROUBLE. And finally the musical excellence of Miles Davis’s KIND OF BLUE which featured Miles Davis and John Coltrane. I have experienced what happens when you compete with the best when I was running world class track where I ran my fastest times. Such is the same with music. When you perform with and follow highly skilled musicians, you automatically become better.

Tell us about your current project?

Our current project is the release of our well awaited CD YOU which we are in the process of mixing and mastering!

By the Creator/Creatress’s grace, we hope to get it to the people this year. Things are really in a holding pattern right now during the current state of affairs. And during this current state, our music is even more in demand! So getting the music out now is essential! Also, we are scheduled to perform a concert at the Crestone Innovators Conference in beautiful Crestone, CO this year which will be streamed all over the world! (crestoneinnovators.com).

What’s next for you?

What’s next for the JAH KINGS is we are looking into live streaming so that we can put on concerts for the people.

We are auditioning for a bass player and once we have secured one, we will perform live as a band through streaming. Also, my QueenWife Isaline is urging me to put on an Acoustic Solo Show through live streaming as I do perform acoustically with my acoustic guitar and Djimbe Drum. In addition to live streaming, the JAH KINGS Band are committed to weathering this current storm and to be ready to perform and serve once this storm passes. We are here to fill the vacuum of fear, stress, and worry with love, unity, and respect for“ The only way through this one is together” as I speak about on my song UNITE(2004). Again, the current reality has increased the demand for our music and vibe to help our human family to navigate through the current changes and great changes coming our way. Grounded in inner peace and purpose, we urge humanity that we now have a great opportunity to tap into true wealth, which is family, good food, land to grow the food, good water, and a home so that we can live a more abundant life!

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music and follow the JAH KINGS? Fans to be can access our music and follow the JAH KINGS at jahkings.com. There we have our back catalog of music where the songs that I have mentioned, and then some, are available for purchase. They can also check out our latest video JAH KINGS San Luis Valley Dubb on Youtube.

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Danae Simone

R&B from the Soul.

When did you first get into music?

I first started singing when I was 3 years old. I come from a family of gospel and Jazz singers so it was almost a tradition for all of us to get together during the holidays and sing songs. I wrote my first record when I was 16 years old however.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My Mother is incredibly talented. She put me onto incredible artist like Ledsi, Lauryn Hill, Nina Simone etc at a very young age which influenced me to want to be a professional singer, performer and songwriter.

How would you describe the music that you create?

I write music about real life experiences, regardless if they are mine or my families and friends… Soul music chose me, so it is my duty to sing and write music people can feel. With that being said my genre is R&B and Soul.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

My music has evolved TREMENDOUSLY! I think the biggest thing I’ve realized is how much I’ve grown as a writer. I’ve learned the dynamics of what it means to be universal, how to write an efficient hook, etc. I had a very micro perspective when it came down to music genre and now I am comfortable with creating all types of genres of music.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

If I were forced to choose only one emotion I would choose passion. Passion can be used in all areas in life and it can apply to so many things. I can be passionate in a discussion, passionate in the bedroom, people can hear my passion when I sing. It’s just such an amazing emotion and form of expression that I would never want to go away.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in a genre overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I think the best ingredient that makes me most unique as an artist is my ability to sing live and really give my supporters an incredible sensual experience. I really take pride in creating a vibe that not too many artists can duplicate.

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What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

The biggest challenge as a musician/ singer-songwriter would probably be just trying to be taken serious as a female in this industry. I know things like sex appeal and lots of other things that are sometimes directed only towards women. I just wish that real true raw talent mattered more.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

I absolutely believe that phrase is true. There are so many things that you sometimes have to sacrifice that may not be aligned with your truth and your art. The best advice I received from the amazing “BJ THE CHICAGO KID” was “Don’t be so selfish with your art” When you look at it that way as a creative it allows you to be more thoughtful and grateful instead of thinking as if you are suffering.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

The internet is so amazing and has impacted the music business in a great way. I love how things are not as traditional as they used to be in the past. You don’t need a label anymore to be STAR because of platforms such as instagram and youtube. These are the times where artists have slightly a bit more control of their image and overall their artistry!

I can go on and on lol.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

I would like to see more woman of color *dark complexion* represented in the music industry better. Doors have been shut for me because of my complexion and that’s not always fair.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today and why?

The albums that have helped make me the person i am today are 1.Untitled by D’Angelo, 2. Miseducation by Lauryn Hill 3. Gumbo Unplugged by PJ Morton 4. Dangerously In Love by Beyonce All of these albums show the rawness and true artistry of these artists. People literally til this day go back and listen to these albums to cope with everyday life experiences and thats the type of impact I want to make with my music.

Tell us about your current project?

I plan to be more consistent and get more dj plays with my music this year. I just released a reggae inspired track called “Want Me” and I am super proud to share it with the world and show them how diverse my music can be.

What’s next for you?

I am working to elevate my all female label and platform WCWLIVE to give more women an opportunity to showcase their talents. I am also releasing my Denim by Danae clothing line and a brand new EP in late July!

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

My supporters can follow me on all social media platforms including spotify and apple music @Danae Simone!

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Kanon Lebron

Hip Hop Influenced.

What’s your name? or stage name?

Kanon Lebron, which originates from two names that I had prior. My first rap name ever was caution with a “k“ so kaution but found out there was a rapper that already named that so I changed it to “anonymous”. “But everybody liked the original name so I took the names and combined the two. Took the “KA“ from Kaution and the “ANON“ from Anonymous and made up “KANON“ the “Lebron“ came later in a freestyle rap session where I said “Kanon the don, call me Lebron”. And after that it just kind of stuck and LeBron James being the same age as me, there was a parallel there. Also I’m the Lebron James of Rap music, plus it was catchy and sounded good. So, I went with it!

Describe your sound? Genre?

My sound is a variation of different genres of rap music. I definitely take from the 90’s with 2Pac and biggie being some of my biggest influences as well as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony DMX, Gangstar and Wu-Tang Clan. Nas, E-40 and a slew of other rappers and artists from all coasts and I can’t forget UGK. What got you into music?

My friends wanted to form a rap group but I also got into rap music through 2Pac and Eminem. When I saw Eminem on the back of his first album I thought “wow this dude is white, and if he can do it, I can do it!“ and from then on the monster was born.

What’s your favorite song and why?

My favorite song ever is by Tupac Shakur and it’s called unconditional love. It is one of my favorite songs or is my favorite song because it describes everything that I’ve gone through as a human being on this earth. I can relate to it on so many levels! Especially the line where he says “ after the lights and screams, only my dreams matter “ that really got me through a dark time.

What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?

Well I didn’t decide to become a song writer. Songwriting chose me. I come from a long line of songwriters. I also love songwriting and that’s why I like to do it. I’m very fortunate to love some thing and be good at it at the same time!

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Do you think these topics will change over time?

The main topics of my songs are things that I go through. Mainly love, sex and lyricism but also being a single father and growing up Mexican American and dealing with different things that we all go through as human beings. I also put a lot of God into my music. And draw from my influences and experiences!

I believe that my music is an revolving door. I am always changing and growing as an artist. None of my records really sound the same and going forward my music will continue to be evolve in change.

Do you follow a formula when you write?

I really feel that good songs write themselves. But, if you wanna call it a formula that I follow I want to say that I’m a crockpot artist. I have ideas that I sit on for long periods of time sometimes years and then the song comes out. I sometimes have the lyrics before the beat and sometimes the beat before the lyrics it just depends.

Which song did you have the most trouble writing?

I don’t want to say I’ve ever had trouble writing a song as much as I have had trouble being patient with myself to take time. To take the time needed to make it special. As of lately I’m challenging myself! Always am I doing that!

Do you ever play any covers or do you only play originals?

I actually just did a song about Nipsey Hussle, called “Letter 2 Nip“ that was a tribute to him on the anniversary of his death. It was a remix of the song “Letter 2Pac“ by Lil Boosie. So I guess you can say yes I do do covers but they are very rare! I’d say 95 to 99% of what I do and what I perform is original!

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?

My music has evolved tremendously since I started performing. I truly feel to be a great artist you have to be able to perform and put on a show for your audience. And in that you become a better overall artist. The more you perform the better you become! It’s definitely a different element and dynamic then recording but an important part to the artistry!

What musician would you like to collaborate with and why?

I’d love to work with 2Pac, if I could even if I got a recording of him from his estate. I also would love to work with Eminem. I would love to work with Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato as well as Dr. Dre and Kanye West. I also would love to work with Metro Boomin, DJ Mustard and London on the track. Also, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney. And the reason is, I love music and I would love to work with these people on songs! I couldn’t even name all the artists, it would take me all day!

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Are you a member of any music organizations?

Spotify for Artist not really any others at the moment. I’m also a tune core artist. And have some music coming out on Distrokid with my rap crew Unlmtdata!

What has been your biggest challenge as a independent artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge?

If so, how?

My biggest challenge as an independent artist is being able to cross-over and get that exposure that is needed to gain the platform it takes to be a successful artist. Also, another challenge is financing, I do everything myself! Which is difficult to do without a major label or machine backing you. I’ve decided to do it the hard way and build it from the ground up, but I am still actively talking to some labels. The situation has to be right for me to sign.

How I’ve overcome those challenges, is keeping my nose to the grind! I just keep putting out music, and now focused on marketing and advertising the right way, along with putting out quality content. Also, believing in myself and my brand and not neglecting or alienating my brand!

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today and why?

First of all I have to say “all eyes on me“ by Tupac Shakur! That definitely laid the foundation for me as an artist and a sound that I always wanted to achieve and that always inspired me. The second album would be “The slim Shady LP.“ That really inspired me as far as lyricism and syllable rhyming went. The next album I would have to say would be “The carter 2“ by Lil Wayne. I didn’t really listen to Lil Wayne before that album but after that album i was a huge fan!

He was able to take rhyming and make it something different, that it had never been before and rhyme words that didn’t even rhyme with each other and make it sound good. it really inspired me with songwriting. The chronic 2001 definitely molded me. It was just a part of my upbringing as an artist. And lastly I’ll have to say it’s a tie between E-40 “In a Major way“ “Life After Death”, “Notorious BIG” and “EST 1999“ by Bone. All three were in my tape deck continuously growing up and I will give an honorable mention to “Nappy Roots: Watermelon, Chicken and Grittz”! All this music makes me up! Also, Love for Drake “Nothing was the same“ was very influential to me and my songwriting!

Where have you performed?

I’ve performed all over my home state Colorado, In Fort Collins At The Aggie and at Hodi’s, In Greeley at The Moxi, In Denver at The Roxy, The Ogden, Cervantes, in El Dos De Oro in Yakima, Wa. And twice in New York City! Big shout out to DJ Lucky Luck who held it down for me in Denver at The Ogden and in Washington.

Do you have any upcoming shows?

With this Coronavirus, I’ve had to cancel about 3 or 4 shows, but have a huge headlining show with my crew Unlmtdata at the Aggie theater scheduled for June 19th. I will keep everyone updated via social media, but as of now, I am Focused on finishing studio music, music videos, putting out new music and promotion!

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

I’m streaming on all platforms or go to KanonLebron.com for all links.

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Wicked Witch

...A Creative Journey

He’s risen from the ashes like the great Phoenix, with a persona like a human tornado with a warped space whirling around a central singularity. He’s rubbed elbows with Ozzie Osbourne, Marilyn Manson, Jeff Beck, Nancy Wilson, and David Oberlin from Korn who produced his newest music. He an artist as well as a singer/songwriter who is successfully following his own inspiration.

World meet “Wicked Witch!” Spawned from the waves of collaborative diversity, the art of thinking independently together, figuring out how to walk through the world together using differences as strengths. I first encountered him at the Grammy Soirée and I was sure he was exceptional. Then two weeks later I celebrated his presence at International designer Sue Wong’s Oscar Party and our fate was sealed.....

Wicked Witch has The Wicked Witch Foundation a vehicle to help new, unsigned artists rise. He is also planning an anti-bullying effort. I spoke to the Witch regarding his career and his future endeavors.

What inspired you to want to become part of the music world?

As a child I always loved music and I was always inspired by other artists and inspired by my mother’s work ethic. I just have a love for music and I always felt that one day I was going to be someone big.

What inspired your name, “Wicked Witch?”

I was at a concert accompanied by Ozzy Osbourne and he basically baptized me in front of a lot of people and that’s how Wicked Witch was born, right after that.

If you could have your ultimate stage fantasy what would have to happen?

Oh man....me on stage with Rob Zombie, Ozzy Osbourne again, Marilyn Manson and all of us just jamming on stage.

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When you were growing up who were your major musical influences?

There were a few artists, but they didn’t really inspire me too much to do the music. I always had my own mindset.

I liked what they did as far as music, but it was my mom’s work ethic that gave me the drive within my family. I liked JAY-Z, Incubus, Lincoln Park, Demi Lovato, Avril Lavigne. There were a lot of artists like Whitney Houston inspiring me, their music inspired me but as far as me doing music I always felt like this is what I was supposed to do.

You’re almost about to release your single, do we have a date?

I chose April 1, 2020. It’s called “Molly” and it’s produced by Davy Oberlin. He’s a live keyboardist in the rock band Korn.

How did you get to meet him?

A lot of people just started connecting with me. They’ve been seeing a lot of different work that I’ve been putting out.

There were a lot of different events that were interesting for them and they started hitting me up. A lot of people just want to start collaborating.

I’ve noticed some artwork on your media.....is that yours? Are you an artist as well?

Yes I am. I love drawing. A little bit about that, I’m launching my Wicked Witch fundraiser where I am creating handmade art work which will be definitely available to purchase. My artwork is inspired by my life story. I’m just painting different emotions of what I go through, I know a lot of people go through the same. Painting has always been a way to relax my mind.

You’re very well rounded artistic wise. You’re from New York?

Yes, Brooklyn New York.

What caused you to relocate to LA? I always saw Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre and Callie artists on BET. I would notice the palm trees, I was looking at the weather and then in New York all I saw was the projects... I’m not discrediting where I’m from.... I loved it, but it’s real ghetto, it’s the hood, but here I was seeing a whole different environment. I always liked all the Hollywood stars out there and it’s like living the dream to be out there in California. I just had to keep working hard and just make a move. I had to find different places, get a job and everything in the beginning but then things started working out in my favor later on. So, I’m definitely blessed for that.

If you could help me ask you any question in the world what would that question be?

I love that question...I’ve never heard somebody say that.....that’s like a real serious question. How about what did it take for me to become so strong in this kind of industry?

Ok, what is it about you that made you so strong in such a tough, unforgiving industry?

It does take a lot! I would have to say that hitting rock-bottom because there was a point in time that it was either I stayed in Brooklyn or just kept on going. So, I just kept going. There was a point in time I was on the street. I used to walk around to try to figure out what I wanted to do. I was in another state at the time and I was trying to figure out that either I was going back home to New York, or I was going to keep going and make something out of it. So, I just kept going and remembered the crime and everything that I had gone through and it reminded me that if I didn’t

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keep going and stay focused, I could be back in that situation. That was one situationyou just keep going. I want to inspire others at the same time during my journey.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself really doing the same thing that I’m doing right now but just leveling up. As far as my art I can see that getting better, my foundation I can see more unsigned artists just joining the foundation and making the change. As far as my music I want to hit the Billboards, Grammys, Oscars, that’s where I see myself..... in each category.

Are you working on any new projects at the moment?

I’m working on a project with Deep Roy (Charlie’s Chocolate Factory, Star Trek). That’s my boy...We’re working on a CD now. I’m going to be writing his raps. It’s going to be called The Witch and the something...

I don’t know what he’s going to call himself ...we gotta have a name and we’re going to have a 5 song EP. I’m also working on something different myself...I didn’t even do it yet, but it is so interesting. It’s a whole different style, a whole different person...

Explain The Wicked Witch Foundation?

As a child growing up, I always had a passion for music, acting and modeling. I’m going to inspire the unsigned talent. That’s what the Wicked Witch Foundation is about, inspiring, guiding, and providing...resources. I am offering opportunities to experience music, fashion, Red Carpets, and networking.

Follow Wicked Witch on IG:

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