We#are#Leokey!#We're#a#group#of#inspiring#artists#in#the# works#of#creating#our#on#manga#inspired#comics.#In#hopes# of#speading#our#stories#we#created#our#site#for#people#who# have#an#interest#manga#inspired#comics#we#hope#our# stories#are#compelling.#Please#check#us#out#at# http://leokeyambition.wixsite.com/leokeycomics and shop at our online store at https://www.forudesigns.com/store/1270712
Co#Founder*
Co#Founder*
Keoni&Atkins&
Tyrell&Mathews&
Co9Creator&of&Reality&Overload &
Creator&of&Reality&Overload&
Chantel Sawyer (Atkins) (CEO/Owner) I started The Rhythmic Lounge in December 2010. At its start, it was a fairly simple website with the purpose of giving people a place to promote their talents and network. I had no idea that less than two years later it would transform into something much bigger. The website then underwent a complete revamp in July 2011, with a brand new look and the addition of many new features, including the creation of The Rhythmic Lounge Radio. Following suit, the radio started out as merely a 24/7 stream of hand-picked music submitted by talented musicians from the website but is now an integral part of the company. Listeners from all over the world tune in regularly to hear the wide variety of music, as well as the educational, musical and talk-radio shows that we now host. The radio’s success has only made me realize The Rhythmic Lounge could take me in new directions everyday rather than the other way around, which is why a digital magazine seemed like the next step. I’m incredibly proud to present to you hardworking artists and entertainers in this magazine and on the site, so enjoy! Be sure to go to www.therhythm iclounge.com to see the profiles for the great talent displayed in this issue and take a look at our new magazine site at http://w w w .trlm agazine.com Thanks for the support, and happy reading!
Contributors Special thanks to the individuals who have contributed to this issue of The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine! dB Hear d w ww .n o ton lystre et.com
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n oto nlystr eet ar@ g m ail.co m Am anda Craig, W riter http://w w w .snappycopyw riting.com http://w w w .m urderandintrigue.com
Ross Guity, W riter
www.facebook.com/Ross.Guity21 Aaron W ilson, W riter !!!!!!http://aaron+wilson.strikingly.com
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W illiam Kryjak, W riter, Reviewer www.film -book.com
Patrick Ross, W riter! www.reverbnation.com /m cbigrub m cbigrub.hubpages.com
Essince, Interviewer http://w w w .Essince.com http://w w w .RoyalHeirEnt.com !
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Dec. 2016 magazine cover photo taken by J&J Photography Dec. 2016 magazine cover Graphic Designer: Everett Z. Sanders II
The Rhythmic Lounge company is always looking to promote new talent, so don’t forget to join at www.therhythmiclounge.com and take a look at our magazine site at www.TRLmagazine.com
If you would like to be in the magazine, contact the email below.
magazine@therhythmiclounge.com
The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine
2
Leokey Comics
14
Ron Handy
6
Luca Brassy
16
JERZEY
10
Michael Egleton
22
VOICE
12
Comedian MizT
24
Larry Luve
Luca Brassy New York For the past 13 years, Luca Brassy, born and raised in Upstate NY, has been building a reputation in the Tri-State area as one of the hottest emcees in the region. His journey really started in entertainment through professional wrestling at age 13. By the time he turned 16, Luca was running his own professional wrestling training center (24/7 Wrestling Productions LLC) in Upstate NY. Due to things out of his own control, 24/7 closed its doors in the summer of 2003. From there, Brassy had a hard time finding himself again until he discovered his love for writing and music in 2004. In October 2004, he met Jgreen Moneytalkz who has been producing his music ever since. Luca Brassy has performed at numerous cities and states including Schenectady, Albany, Glens Falls, Syracuse, Amsterdam, Rochester, Pittsfield, Pittsburgh, Massachusetts, Buffalo, Newport Rhode Island, Brooklyn, Bronx NY, Manhattan, Staten Island, Ardmore PA, Uniontown Alabama, Birmingham, Atlanta GA, Marshall NC, and Memphis TN among others and has been building a name for himself based on his politically and socially oriented music. Among other great accolades, he has opened for several well-known emcees such as Rakim and Lil Kim. Brassy is now moving in a new direction with his music and putting his old school lyrical mentality to use with his club vibe which has brought him a whole new fan base as well as a different kind of recognition. Brassy’s first mixtape was released in 2006 titled “The Project: Stereotyped”, and his first full-length album “The Narration: The Heart of a Champion” in 2010. A remake of that album was released Through Tate Music Group in 2014 titled simply “The Heart of a Champion.” Luca was recently signed to Sony RED where he released 2 singles “Like That” and “3000” (produced by Younglord). With this, he continues to be active around his own community as well as others. He continues to grind and make new contacts in radio, magazine, film, blogs, etc. He most recently was signed to CNY Mode modeling agency based in Syracuse NY! In music, his newest single “Lose Your Mind” was recorded in Los Angeles with the music video being shot in ATL. Brassy stays on the grind and is always active in his music and all business endeavors. Stay tuned for the latest on Luca Brassy! POW!!! The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Luca Brassy: Luca Brassy is the name and I love the music and entertainment industry. I started in music with producer J Green in upstate NY in 2004 and have been working with him ever since. As a performer, I've been all over the country from Alabama to California to New York to Texas, plus more and have performed at some of the largest music events in the country. I'm also a model signed with CNY Mode in Syracuse NY and love to be active in all forms of entertainment! TRL: You became an entrepreneur at a very young age, and although not directly related, how did the creation of your professional wrestling training center prepare you for your career in music and entertainment? I started in professional wrestling at age 13 and left the business complete at age 19. There were many reasons as to why I was forced to walk away, but that's a whole other story. What wrestling did for me as a performer through, was get me in front of cameras and people at a very young age, which I see now as practice time I had put in. It also taught me the value of money, the expectation of mutual respect, and that some people will do whatever they can to try to make sure you won't succeed. You need to keep moving no matter what and ignore the naysayers. TRL: What has been your biggest career achievement thus far? My biggest achievements in professional wrestling were having the privilege to wrestle names such as Doink the Clown, Tony Atlas, and Tony Mamaluke among others. In music I was able to open for Rakim and Lil Kim as well as go on two tours! I was also signed to Sony RED and released two singles "3000" and "Like That", available on iTunes ;). TRL: What caused you to make a musical change to more of a “club” sound? How do you feel that decision has played out so far? I decided to get into the club/EDM genre for several reasons. First and foremost, I love it. Second, I was making a completely different kind of music for a long time. I realized after a performance in upstate NY that I wasn't much different from any of the other artists on the show that night. It's a hard reality when you realize there's nothing special about what you're doing. The things that most Indy hip-hop artists do are all part of a dying breed and music is moving in a new direction. The sound I developed for myself is unique and unique is always good. I've gotten a lot farther doing what i do now as opposed to what I was doing before. And it's a lot more fun! No one wants to be depressed so I try to make music anyone can listen to and appreciate. TRL: What do we have to look forward to from you in the near future? I have a lot of new things coming soon. I am negotiating a couple new deals for modeling a few new clothing lines as well as working out a deal to push my music out even further than what we are currently doing! And it's all as an Indy artist who just grinds. Expect a huge splash from Luca Brassy in the near future and I just want to say to all of you...always believe. POW Luca Brassy (Luke Olensky) 518-810-2207 www.lucabrassy.com www.facebook.com/lucabrassy www.facebook.com/lucabrassyfans www.twitter.com/lucabrassy www.soundcloud.com/lucabrassy www.reverbnation.com/lucabrassy www.linkedin.com/lucabrassy www.instagram.com/brassyluca
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H.I.M MINISTRYZ POETZ was born Peter E. Gortarez on August 14,1979 in Sun Valley, Ca. Raised in Tacoma and Panorama City in the San Fernando Valley where gangs and violence played a large role in his early life, He was also raised in a music loving family where he was influenced to perform at an early age. In 1994 at age 14 He moved to Victorville, CA with his grandmother where he met and was neighbor to Eugene Overton aka "C.H.A.L.D". Together they formed the group ETERNAL SOULZ were they wrote/recorded songs and performing them traveling from California to Texas. In 2006 POETZ was introduced to the other have of his destined group "C.R.E.S.BOYZ" ( RIVAL &JOE PHILLY) of CALI ROUTES, a group them and C.H.A.L.D in El Paso, TX in 2005. The two groups combined and formed C.R.E.S.BOYZ. releasing their first album "THA DEMONSTRATION". Although POETZ is one of the four fathers of group "C.R.E.S.BOYZ" CALI ROUTES/ETERNAL SOULZ, he is also a powerful solo artist poetic word play and strong stage presence. Releasing his first solo album in "POETRY, PLEASURE&PAIN" Poetz has no intentions of slowing down! Although all his previous work was "secular" POETZ has since then received CHRIST as his personal LORD and SAVIOR. In 2014 He was introduced to TIMOTHY GABRIEL, another gospel artist who was like-minded in the spreading of the gospel. Together with a few other fellow brothers and sisters in CHRIST assembled "H.I.M MINISTRYZ". A music ministry set out to spread the gospel to the lost and broken, reaching people with real down to earth music that people can relate with. Since then POETZ has released two Gospel albums "HEAVEN AWAITS" and "REMADE" (available on soundcloud.com/poetz and reverberation.com/POETZ) also releasing music videos and numerous features on other gospel artists albums. Working on his new album POETZ is sure to inspire and encourage all who listen to the message that OUR FATHER has sent him out to deliver the message of salvation thru our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!!
Timothy Gabriel Hoody, The middle child in a family of 9 siblings! Raised by a God loving and faithful single parent who instilled faith in God into all of her children. Early in Timothy's childhood, he took a very deep interest in music, only to find out later that his ability to create songs were actually a gift from God the Father of Jesus Christ! Though Timothy was raised up by a faithful woman of God, Timothy chose to walk in the path of the Gang life. This life led to prison terms, parole, hardships and turmoil. During times he served in prison, Timothy often sang from his jail cell among some of California's hardest criminals on the same cellblock as he was on. Though surrounded by hardened criminals, when Timothy sang from his cell, the atmosphere of what seemed to be one step away from hell turned more like a taste of freedom from the worries and stress of prison life, proving that music is truly a gift from God. During his rebellious life timothy attempted to use his gift in music as an instrument to fit his walk as a gang banger in the world of hardcore Hip Hop music. Forming several groups, though he had a gift for music, nothing ever came to focus because Timothy paid more attention to the life that he was living as a gangster, rather than a rap artist. But a few years ago something extraordinary began to take place! Timothy found himself facing a life sentence for a crime he had not participated in. Through prayer, faith in the LORD, and supplication, God showed mercy to Timothy and he beat the charges! After being freed Timothy slid back into the gang and drug related lifestyle. Forgetting that God had spared his life from spending the rest of it behind bars, Tim went on with his plans to live out the rest of his life as the gangster he had always known. "But God had other plans for Tim's life!" Two years after being delivered from a life sentence, Tim found himself facing "another" life sentence! This time Timothy took this trial as a definite warning and chastisement from God. Honoring the call to repentance, Tim found himself given over to the LORD! By the grace of God, once again Tim became a free man. "Glory be to God!" Upon becoming free, once again, The Spirit of God led Tim to become a devoted believer and follower of Jesus Christ. After some time as a child of God, Timothy hooked up with other Christian artists to do a song called "Wide Road." And along with Peter "Poetz" Gortarez, H.I.M. Ministryz was created. And the Ride to bring to the world a new wave of Ministry through music was born! May the LORD bless and keep us on the path to righteousness and may God use our music to strengthen, edify, save and bring the light of God to a stumbling world! Most of all, May our music glorify God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ! Amen!!! "COMING SOON!" Thru tha Valley of tha Shadow!
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourselves and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! H.I.M Ministryz: We are Timothy Gabriel and POETZ of H.I.M MINISTRYZ born again Christians, followers of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. We are a music ministry bringing testimony of the Kingdom of God thru realistic lyrics, dope beats and versatility in styles and delivery.
TRL: The two of you put HIM MINISTRYZ together. Can you tell us what that process was like and what individual strengths do you both bring to the company? HM: In the beginning we planed only to collaborate on a song or two. The chemistry sparked the creation of our ministry. We found ourselves building a Label in service to spreading the word of God thru Music and Video production.
TRL: What has been your greatest career accomplishment thus far? HM: Traveling to do Gods work. Finding ourselves being used at the right time, at the right place, Glorifying God and bringing broken people to realization of Gods love for them.
TRL: What would you say is 1 major thing that sets HIM MINISTRYZ apart from other similar companies? HM: While most of the world, including other Gospel labels, seem to have the ambition of making money and gaining fame for themselves, we here at HIM MINISTRYZ are set on spreading Gods Word and leading others to Christ. Although money is necessary to fund events and for travel expenses, it is not our first priority‌spreading the Gospel is & making sound music and providing positive influence to a hurting world.
TRL: What do we have to look forward to from HIM MINISTRYZ in the near future? HM: Look forward to New albums such as Timothy Gabriel's "THRU THA VALLEY OF THA SHADOW"Album set to drop early next year 2017, New Videos, New Artists signing to the Label like "Blessed Rico" an upcoming solo artist currently in the studio recording his first Debut album. R&B Gospel Artist as well as a possible Country Gospel Artist (Yet to be named). Also New merchandise and accessories Available on the website HIM Ministryz Muzik
Michael(Egleton((! At the age of seven, Michael Egleton was introduced to music when his mom brought home a guitar for Christmas. He continued to play and experiment with numerous instruments before finding his musical connection with the keyboard. Michael began his musical career by playing and composing Gospel music for local artists and churches. Throughout the years his passion for music has broaden to include various genres such as Jazz, R&B and Soul. Johnny Gill, Bobby “Blue” Bland, George Benson, Michael Henderson, Tyrese are just a few of the names that come to mind when you hear the music of Michael Egleton. Whether you’re in the mood to dance or for love the R & B, jazzy and sultry blends of piano and orchestra sounds sprinkled with raspy vocals takes you there with every song. Today his keyboard is how he interprets life and allows his feelings to flow from the heart. Egleton’s mature sound can be attributed to his childhood and being raised by his grandfather, a fiery Gospel preacher from the south and former ” Honkie Tonk” musician himself during the 40′s and 50′s playing in the juke joints around Chicago. This fresh, new sound with an old flare and innovative techniques and style best describes Michael Egleton and his music. It is simple yet mature, nothing too complicated, a straight to the point sound that’s refreshing to today’s music. Many of Michael’s musical influences include legendary Stevie Wonder, The Clark Sisters, George Duke, Michael Henderson, George Haynes of St. Louis and Barry White to name a few. Originally from Barberton, Ohio, Michael currently resides in Akron, Ohio. Akron is well-known for producing several artists and industry greats and Egleton aspires to add his name to that list one day. He has released two independent albums Baby, Baby, Baby and his current album titled, That’s Alright. This new album is steadily rising up the charts and is currently number one on Akron’s charts in the Blues, Jazz and Soul categories. All of Michael’s life experiences and lessons shapes him as a musician and are reflected in his music. Eager to experience success on the next level Michael Egleton is making his mark in the music industry.((((( (
WWW.MICHAELEGLETON.COM www.reverbnation.com/michaelegleton www.soundcloud.com/michaelegleton( ( (
( The!Rhythmic!Lounge:!Please!introduce!yourself!and!give!the!readers!a!brief!background!for!those!who!aren’t!familiar!with!you!! Michael(Egleton:(I(am(a(fresh(new(sound(with(an(old(flare,(innovative(techniques(and(style,(I(would(best(describes(and(my(music.(It's(simple,(yet( mature.(Nothing(too(complicated.(A(straight(to(the(point(sound(that's(refreshing(in(today's(music.(Many(say(I(sound(like(Donny(Hathaway,(Johnny( Taylor,(Michael(Henderson,(Billy(Paul(and(a(few(other(artists(and(singer(from(the(past(such(as(Isaac(Hayes,(and(Billy(Preston.(Originally(from( Barberton,(Ohio,(I(now(resides(in(Akron,(Ohio(and(make(my(music(home(in(Atlanta,(GA,(commuting(to(and(from(during(the(year.((I(have(released( three(independent(albums,(Baby(Baby(Baby,(the(award(winning,(A(Look(Into(My(Heart(and(his(new(independent(release,(That’s(Alright(“The(Rewind”,( and(one(album(with(the(Tate(Music(Group(Label,(That's(Alright.(Songs(from(the(award(winning,(A(Look(Into(My(Heart(CD,(are(being(played(on(radio( stations(across(the(country,(the(UK(and(worldwide,(on(FM,(AM(and(XM(stations.(I’ve((won(The(Ohio(Music(Awards,(Adult(Contemporary(category,( 2014,(The(Most(Listened(to(songs(for(2014(with(Baby(Baby(Baby(“The(Remix”(with(the,(It’s(All(Soul(To(Me(with(Simon(Darke(Radio(Show(in(the(UK,( recently,(2016(Akedemia(Music(Awards,(Best(in(Jazz,(and(has(been(an(IMA(nominee,(and(is(also(a(2016(entry(into(the(IMA(Music(Awards.(I(have(had( numerous(articles(and(reviews(written(in(many(music(magazines(about(myself(and(my(music.(Songs(from(A(Look(Into(My(Heart,(has(quickly(reach(#1( on(every(music(site(it(has(been(a(part(of.((It’s(Over(“The(Remix”(was(one(of(the(songs(featured(this(year(during(the(domestic(abuse(crisis(of(the(NFL,( and(in(the(personal(lives(of(many(private(relationships.(My(past(release(with(the(label,(Tate(Music(Group,(That's(Alright(was(a(main(stay(in(the(top(10( on(music(charts(for(the(Akron,(Canton,(Cleveland,(and(regional(Ohio(area(in(the(Blues,(Soul(and(Jazz(genres(on(many(online(music(sites.(All(of(my(life( experiences(and(lessons(shape(me(as(a(musician(and(are(reflected(in(my(music.(( ( (
The!Rhythmic!Lounge:!Were!there!people!around!you!who!really!encouraged!and!influenced!you!to!pursue!your!talent?! ME:(Actually(yes,(there(were(quite(a(few(people(from(many(years(past(that(had(encouraged(me(to(pursue(a(career(in(secular(music.(I(was(already( was(already(writing(Gospel;(music(and(had(written(one(song(that(was(secured(by(the(well(known(great(Gospel(singer(and(my(friend(from(this(area,( Douglas(Miller(of(“Anchored(In(the(Lord”(fame(and(his(hit(with(MC(Hammer(and(of(whom(every(now(and(then(I(have(opportunity(to(play(for.( One(of(my(sister’s(aunts(was(a(member(of(the(Weather(Girls(or(as(also(known,(The(Two(Tons(of(Fun(group(of(“It’s(Raining(Men”(fame(and(who(sang( background(for(Sylvester(for(many(years,(who(I(like(to(call(Ms(Izora,(the(late(Ms(Izora(Armstead,(husband(at(that(time(would(encourage(me(every( time(they(would(come(the(Akron,(Cleveland(area(to(come(and(record(a(song(back(in(my(20’s.(I(just(didn’t(feel(it.(I(wasn’t(prepared(mentally(and( chose(to(pass.(I(had(a(very(young(family….(It(just(was(not(in(the(cards(for(me(at(that(time.(There(were(other(at(this(time(who(also(would(talk(to(me( about(checking((things(out(some(of(which(went(on(to(pursue(their(music(careers(with(such(bands(as(the(S.O.S(Band(and(Roles(Royse,(Switch((and( more.(I(still(chose(to(stay(back.(As(you(see,(this(area(has(been(rich(in(music(history.(It(was(at(this(time(in(my(life(I(felt(I(had(something(to(offer.(I(gave( it(a(spin(with(my(first(independent(release,(Baby(Baby(Baby(and(really(didn’t(expect(anything(to(come(of(it.(As(a(matter(of(fact(I(laughed(to(myself( about(it.(I(submitted(it(online(to(a(few(music(sites(and(the(rest(is(history!( (
The!Rhythmic!Lounge:!What!has!been!the!most!memorable!accomplishment!of!your!career!so!far?! ME:(There(are(quite(a(few(memorable(instances(in(my(short(career(thus(far.(One(is(my(very(first(performance(on(stance(at(The(Musica(here(in(Akron,( Ohio.(It(was(mind(numbing(to(say(the(least.(The(energy(on(stage(with(the(band(was(out(of(this(world!(Then(there(was(my(first(award.(This(was(so( special(because(it(was(like(a(validation(that(I(could(play(in(the(big(leagues(if(given(a(chance(and(shown(the(proper(way(of(doing(things(required(by(the( industry.(Then(there(was(the(“Top(25(Most(Listened(To(Songs(of(2014(with(((the(late)(Mr(Simon(Darke(Radio(Show”(in(The(UK.(This(validated(that(I( could(be(appreciated(worldwide(and(that(music(is(a(universal(language.(I’m(sure(there(will(be(more(if(I(continue(on(the(path(that(I’m(on(and(with(the( help(of(the(Lord.( ( (
The!Rhythmic!Lounge:!Are!there!any!upcoming!events!or!projects!that!you’d!like!to!mention?! ME:(What’s(next(in(the(near(future(for(me(is(first(to(finish(my(new(independent(project,(That’s(Alright(“The(Rewind’.(The(next(two(releases(to(this( independent(project(are(releasing(as(I(write.(One(of(which(is(also(already(entered(into(the(2016(IMA(Music(Awards.(This(song(is,(Behind(These(Walls( featuring(Bob(Esterle.(Behind(These(Walls(is(a(moving(song(about(the(emotions(and(feeling(one(may(experience(during(the(stormy(times(of(a( relationship(that(has(lost(it’s(flame.(Then(the(carry(over(that(occurs(when(one(transfers(all(of(this(baggage(to(a(new(relationship,(penalizing(the(new( interest(for(the(sins(of(the(past(relationship.(This(song(is(produce(by(Wes(McCraw,(Creekside(Audio,(Norton,(OH(and(Samuel(Haygood,(NeDAeGroove( Productions,(Atlanta,(GA.(for(the(new(independent(project(from(Michael(Egleton,(That’s(Alright(“The(Rewind”,(produced(by(Wes(McCraw(and(Samuel( Haygood(with(associate(producers,(Mr(K.T.(Beats(((Mr(Kevin(Taylor(Jr)(of(KT(Got(Beats,(Atlanta,(GA(and(Mr(Dereck(Gelespie,(Gee(Funk(Productions,( Akron,(OH.(Pop(“Rewound”(has(already(been(released(to(radio(and(many(Smooth(Jazz(stations(are(starting(to(warm(up(to(it.(It’s(produced(by(Samuel( Haygood(for(That’s(Alright(“The(Rewind”.(Then(there(is(the(HOT(dance(tune,(Stank(“Wound(Up”(also(produced(by(Mr.(Samuel(Haygood(for(That’s( Alright(“The(Rewind”.(This(Hot(dance(tune(is(being(played(by(DJ(everywhere(in(this(region.(It’s(built(for(hand(and(line(dancing(and(that’s(just(what( they(are(doing!( There(is(an(autobiography(planned(for(released(in(2016(in(which(my(branding(team(at,(BlueeArtists(in(Baltimore,(DC(area(are(preparing(to(write(with( me.(We’re(looking(at(some(small(roles(in(film(and(starting(planning(for(the(brand(new(independent(project(for(2017.( The(new(Video(EPK(Premier(for(Behind(These(Walls(was(release(recently.(Filming(for(the(Music(Video(to(this(song(will(start(in(August.(( To(my(fans(I's(like(to(simply(say,(Thank(you.(Thank(you(for(everything,(your(support,(your(listening,(your(kind(words.(Your(inspiration(when(I'm(ready( to(give(up.(For(getting(me(through(a(very(tough(time(a(few(months(ago(when(my(younger(brother(had(passed(from(Lupus(and(less(than(30(hours( later(my(baby(sister(was(murdered(by(her(lover.(When(I(thought(it(was(over,(20(days(later(my(nephew,(my(sister's(19(year(old(son(passed.((I(was( living(on(the(words(of(my(songs(and(the(touches(from(you,(my(fans.(Thank(you(so,(so(much.(I(am(nothing(without(you.(I(do(appreciate(and(respect( you.(Please(keep(supporting(and(spreading(the(word(about(Michael(Egleton!(
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Ron Handy
http://www.ronhandy.com0
Montgomery, AL
The multi-instrumentalist, Ron Handy, was born and reared in Montgomery, Alabama. He began playing guitar in grade school. In junior and senior high school, Ron began to concentrate primarily on Alto Saxophone and he participated in various county and state honor bands. During high school, Ron not only played in the marching, symphonic, and jazz bands, but he also arranged and composed music for these bands. This pivotal period in his life influenced Ron’s decision to pursue a career in music. After high school graduation, Ron enrolled in college at Alabama State University, where he earned a music degree with honors. Presently, Ron is employed at Alabama State University in the Department of Music. Ron has been the recipient of the ASU President’s Excellence Award and he was inducted into the Lanier High School Hall of Fame (his high school alma mater) for creative musicianship and service to the community. He has also received numerous other awards for music and for community service. Throughout his professional career, Ron has performed with or as the opening act for various jazz, pop/R&B and gospel stars including: Grammy Award winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum; Grammy Award winning vocalist Chrisette Michele; Outstanding a cappella group and 10 time Grammy Award winners Take 6;9 time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys; Platinum selling R&B vocalist Avant; jazz group Pieces of a Dream; vibraphonist Roy Ayers; vocalist Phyllis Hyman; trumpeter Tom Browne; saxophonist Najee; 9 time Grammy Award winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient Wynton Marsalis; super producer/keyboardist George Duke; saxophonist George Howard; vocalist Rachelle Ferrell; vocal sensation and 2 time Grammy Award winner Patti Labelle; jazz keyboardist Joe Sample; 5 time Grammy Award winner and pop/rock/country/gospel hit maker B.J. Thomas; producer/drummer Norman Connors; gospel vocalist Lisa McClendon; gospel/jazz guitarist Roland Grissum; smooth jazz violinist Jerald Daemyon; Hit R&B/pop vocalist Peabo Bryson; father/son recording artists Eddie Levert (O’jays) & Gerald Levert and gospel recording star John P. Kee. Ron has also performed with and composed music for actress Bernadette Stanis (formerly known as “Thelma” from the hit TV show “Good Times”), who is also skilled at writing poetry. A versatile musician with a love for different genres of music, Ron Handy has played gospel, classical, jazz and pop/R&B extensively. He has served as the musical director and/or woodwind/keyboard player for many theatrical productions including: “The Wiz”; “Dreamgirls”; “Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope”; “Purlie”; “Ain’t Misbehavin’; “The Meeting” and many others. Ron has been featured on both local and national television, along with local and international radio. He has been featured on CNN and he was the “Artist of the Week” on the international radio program “Jazz From The City,” hosted by renowned jazz DJ Ken “Spider” Webb. Ron Handy has produced and performed on numerous recordings over the years. He has worked as a studio musician and engineer, as well as producer and arranger for several recording projects, including television theme songs and commercial jingles. Ron has released his own CDs, which include smooth jazz “covers” of the R&B group Jodeci’s “Forever My Lady” and jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves’ “Come In.” He has also recorded smooth jazz versions of other pop/R&B hits, including Brian McKnight’s “The Only One For Me”. Being a spiritual person who loves to give honor and praise to God, Ron released a CD of gospel favorites titled “Sign Me Up,” which has received heavy rotation and acclaim from radio stations and listeners alike. Gospel and “smooth jazz” stations also embraced a CD single titled “He’s Worthy”. Despite maintaining a demanding professional career, Ron enjoys taking the time to visit schools and churches to perform and talk to young people about music, life and career goals. Throughout the years, Ron has been blessed to perform for wide and diverse audiences. His versatility has allowed him to become one of the most sought after musicians in the southeast. Having been given the gift of music, Ron Handy thanks God and considers it a privilege and an honor to be able to share his music with others.
Christina Mims!
The Rhythmic Lounge: Was there an "aha" moment that made you say, "I want to be a musician"? Ron Handy: Coming from a musical household where everyone in the house played an instrument and/or sang definitely had an impact on me, but my “aha” moment came when I was in high school. I had a wonderful band director, Farrell Duncombe, who saw some potential in me and allowed me to go as far as I wanted to go under his guidance. I was the saxophone section leader and, as a teenager, was allowed to arrange musical selections and conduct them in rehearsals. The fire within me was raging once I stood in front of the band for the first time to conduct my very first marching band arrangement (laughs). Honestly, it didn’t turn out that great but Mr. Duncombe encouraged me to keep at it. I was so determined to practice that Mr. Duncombe asked the school principal if I could have a key to the band room. I think he was tired of me “bugging” him (laughs). His request was granted and I was able to practice in the band room at any time. I loved it and my desire to be a good musician (along with being a responsible young man) was of “high priority.”
TRL: You play several instruments! How did that come about? RH: Wow! That’s a good question! As I stated earlier, my family had instruments around the house all the time and it sparked my interest to see how each one operated. Several years ago I worked with John Gibbs, a fantastic musician who owns a music store here in Montgomery. Whenever I was in the store I would watch customers come in to purchase different instruments. To my surprise and amazement, John would demonstrate each instrument that was requested. I don’t mean “tinker” with it (smile). He could “really” play every instrument that he put his hands on…WELL (laughs). It was great for me to see a person do that and he was gracious enough to show me some techniques on different instruments. I was getting into multi-track recording at the time and I had to lay all of the tracks myself. Whew! During those days I didn’t have digital recorders to work with, so everything went to tape. It really helped my musicianship because I had to literally “perform” every part in its entirety. I continue to work like that now because I get a better feel for the music by actually “playing” the parts separately.”
TRL: Why was going to college and getting a degree in music important to you? RH: First of all, both of my parents are retired educators and going to college was always stressed to me, along with my siblings, as a way to position ourselves for a better life. I was so into music in high school that my mind was made up about having music as a major. I really wanted to learn everything that I could about music and possibly teach one day. My saxophone instructor in college, Dr. Laurence Hayes, played a major role in convincing me to soak up all of the knowledge that I could from him. Believe me, he had a wealth of knowledge and I was encouraged to go beyond my musical barriers. The music was so difficult that I would spend 4 to 6 hours a day working on various exercises. I once asked, “Why are you giving me such difficult pieces to learn?” I soon found out that he was planning to retire and I am now in his old office at Alabama State University. Talk about irony (smile). Attending college and getting a degree in music has been extremely beneficial to me. I owe a major debt of gratitude to all of my former teachers for the seeds that they’ve sown in me. May God bless them all!
TRL: You've performed numerous times as a solo act. How challenging is that? RH: That’s a great question! The solo act came about as the result of my maturing as a multi-instrumentalist and producer. I owe a lot of my decision to perform solo to Dr. George Shaw, a Long Beach, California based musician/producer/educator whom I met several years ago. He literally took me under his wing and instructed me on the “ins” and “outs” of studio recording. He’s a guru when it comes to studio gear and he’s an awesome trumpet player. Well, I had a performance coming up for a festival and was working so hard that I didn’t have time to pull a band together for rehearsals. I was about to cancel the engagement when Dr. Shaw says, “Do it yourself!” His statement changed everything for me and I began to perform with or without a band. I spent a great deal of time learning several tunes on a variety of instruments to enhance my “live” performances. Performing live with a band is wonderful and I enjoy that aspect tremendously. The challenge of performing “live” on a “track date” concert is that it requires a lot more energy. Since I’m performing the instrumental parts on the tracks, I always think about my energy level and which instrument(s) I will be playing “live” to keep things fresh and interesting. It’s truly a challenge, but I enjoy it!
TRL: Do you remember the first time you heard yourself on the radio? RH: Yes I do remember the first time I heard a selection that I’d recorded in the studio on the radio (laughs). Back in the day, I was always working on stuff (smile). A good friend of mine and music business mentor, Steve Myers, would always ask me… “Are you working on some material?” I would always say “yes” and he would tell me to get it to him as soon as I was done. After several months of asking the same question and getting the same answer from me, I reluctantly gave Steve a tape to check out over the weekend. I didn’t think it was ready, but he took it and returned it to me on the following Monday. He told me he liked it and I said “thanks, but I’ll finish it soon”. To my surprise, I was driving and listening to our campus radio station (WVAS FM 90.7) when I heard one of my selections on the radio. You see, Steve Myers was the station manager at the time and he’d copied the tape and put it on the air. I guess he was tired of “waiting on me” and decided I was ready (Laughs). As I think about it, I’m glad he did that. I would probably still be “getting ready” today (smile)! Thanks, Steve!
TRL: How did the interesting concept of the "Killing Me Softly" video on YouTube come about? RH: The “Killing Me Softly” track and video came about very quickly. The vocalist that I work with, Christina Mims, has always loved that song and wanted to perform it. I laid the instrumental tracks for her to rehearse with. She liked it and went on the computer to make sure she had all of the lyrics correct. We were not really intending to “record” the song at that time. It was really just a “fun” thing. She looked over the lyrics for a few minutes and said…”Hey, I want to lay some vocal tracks over what you’ve done.” She proceeded to lay the lead and the harmony tracks in one take each… top to bottom. Wow! As we were listening back to the performance Darrick Long (an ASU student) walked into my office and said… “I really like that and I have an idea.” Darrick takes his iPhone out of his pocket and says…”let’s make a video”! The footage on the iPhone was shot right then. As we listened to the lyrics of this great Charles Fox – Norman Gimbel composition, Darrick (along with his twin brother Eric) had a concept to convey a unique message through the video. The world recently commemorated the 60th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March and State Senator Quinton Ross played the video for visiting dignitaries during their visit to Montgomery. The video was met with a rousing ovation of approval and we are all very proud to have been a part of it. We’ve received many positive emails and texts from around the world from those who have viewed the video on YouTube! Christina (a gifted vocalist) and Darrick (who also designed my website) are truly talented individuals and I love working with them. Thank you, TRL!
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Hailing from the Garden State, Joshua Terrell AKA
is the next big thing
in Hip-Hop and R&B. He has dedicated countless hours writing and studying music. His music tells you exactly who he is. JERZEY is the definition of creativity and will be the new face for a long awaited rejuvenation of Hip-Hop. His plan to takeover the game is in full swing as he has already developed a strong fan base through hit performances of his smash hit titled “I’m On.” JERZEY has released 3 more singles, which have been played and requested on notable radio stations. His music has created a buzz, gaining the attention of well-known radio hosts Shaggy and DJ Jack of Spades. He has an appetite for success and the drive not to stop until he reaches “Icon Status.” JERZEY has also released one of the hottest mixtapes “JERZEY DRIVE” and he’s currently working on his debut album “JERZEYS FINEST.”
The Rhythmic Lounge: Who is “JERZEY,” for those who have yet to hear of you? JERZEY: IM THE NEW FACE FOR NEW JERSEY RAPPERS. IM FROM MT. HOLLY NEW JERSEY AND IM GONNA SHOW THE WORLD HOW TO BE CREATIVE WITH MUSIC AND HOW TO TAKE IT SERIOUSLY, IV BEEN RAPPING FOR 4 YEARS AND IM BETTER THAN 90 % OF THESE NEW RAPPERS OUT NOW. IM GOING TO CHANGE THE WAY PEOPLE LOOK AT NEW JERSEY ARTIST!
TRL: Who have been your musical influences? JERZEY: MY MUSIC IS INFLUENCED BY CASSIDY, MEEK MILL, FREEWAY AND PAPOOSE.
TRL: Is there anything that you feel hip-hop music has been lacking, that you can bring to the table? JERZEY: HIP-HOP HAS BEEN LACKING CREATIVITY, MOTIVATION, AND ORIGINALITY. I BRING EVERYTHING REQUIRED TO KEEP THE CULTURE ALIVE. I RAP AS IS I AM HIP-HOP.
TRL: Do you have any upcoming news that you’d like to mention to our readers? JERZEY: I HAVE A NEW ALBUM DROPPING NEXT YEAR TITLED “JERZEY’S FINEST,” AND A MIXTAPE TITLED “JERZEY FLOW.”
Mixtape is available on datpiff.com http://www.datpiff.com/mixtapes-detail-2015.php?id=774308 Instagram.com/jerzeyateam Facebook.com/jerzeyateam Soundcloud.com/jerzeyateam soundcloud.com/ateammusicent facebook.com/ateamentrecords ! !!!!!!!!!!where
creativity lives
DECEMBER / / 17!
Graffiti Graffiti is a young artist from Germantown, Maryland on the come up! He first got into HipHop when he was seven years old, always listening to his dad make beats and songs and being inspired by his favorite artist’s Nas, Kendrick Lamar, Logic, J Cole and Joey Badass. He started practicing his craft at age eleven. By high school, his craft started to get better and better each day by reading the dictionary and free styling to beats to expand his vocabulary. “I always just wanted to make good music that the people would love and can listen to decades from now and bring back that Hip-Hop sound,” shares Graffiti. After high school, he decided it was time to step it up a notch with his music by staying in the studio day and night perfecting is music. “Music is very important to me because it helped me get through a lot in life and I want to give back with my music and help others who are going through tough situations, which is why I definitely take my time on my songs, making sure the main message is positive and inspiriting.” At the age of 19, Graffiti started learning how to mix and master and make beats from his dad and now his buzz is starting to grow. Graffiti is now working on his first debut album called “Reminisce,” as he continues to share his amazing lyricism and positive message through his sound. 18
www.therhythmiclounge.com
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Graffiti: For people that may not know me my name is Damyon Richardson but I go by the name Graffiti, and I'm from a small neighborhood called Middle brook in Germantown, Maryland.
TRL: Where did the name “Graffiti” come from? Graffiti: It's funny cause the name Graffiti came from the dictionary loll I was trying to find a stage name for myself and I picked the first letter I stumbled on in the dictionary and I landed on the G section, that's when I found the name Graffiti and I ran with it every since.
TRL: What effect has being from Maryland had on the creative path that you chose? Graffiti: Being from Maryland definitely has played a part in that cause I feel like the area I'm from you don't see many rappers in the game from there so I make sure my creativity is definitely dope when it comes to making music or videos.
TRL: Have you considered expanding your talent into other areas of music or entertainment? If so, which? Graffiti: Yes besides being an artist I'm also a producer I know how to make my own beats and mix and master my music so I always think about when I'm done with rapping in the future I'm goanna go into the producing part of music and I'm also learning how to direct music videos so directing is something that I want to go into more also as I get some more years under my belt in the rap game
TRL: Do you have any upcoming events that you’d like to mention to our readers? Graffiti: Just finished my album Reminisce; it's in stores now. But I have a show on November 4 2016 at Cafe 611 in Frederick MD, It's going to be hot so everyone needs to come out, they won't be disappointed. I'm also get ready for the A Team tour that will be happening very soon. I can't wait for that one it's going to be crazy.
twitter.com/graffiti instagram.com/graffiti301 soundcloud.com/graffiti301 facebook.com/graffiti301 facebook.com/ateamentrecords where creativity lives
DECEMBER / / 19
After a lengthy career as a Prosecutor, Criminal Defense Attorney, and Circuit Court Judge in Miami, Florida, now retired Ric Zweig has resumed a musical career, once previously abandoned upon admission to law school. Now after 12 years and the recording of 5 albums of original music, Ric has emerged as one of the premier singer/songwriters in the South Florida area. Along with his band "FRESH AIR", which he fronts as lead singer, Ric plays originals, select covers and adaptations that truly reflect his deep musical roots. "FRESH AIR" is a regular participant on the local South Florida music festival scene. The band recently played multiple gigs in New Orleans and plans a return trip. Whether its hosting a regular weekly Jam show at a local club or his regular appearances on local radio, Ric brings an enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge of the history of Rock 'n Roll dating back to its early days. Ric states: "I've been fortunate to live a most varied life, but nothing has been as rewarding and enjoyable as my years as a musician." The bands upcoming album "More Ric Zweig & Fresh Air" will be released sometime in January 2017
For Bio and more information visit: www.riczweig.com
TRL: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Ric Zweig: In an earlier life that spanned 3 decades, I Ric Zweig, was a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, and Circuit Court Judge in Miami, Florida. Twelve years ago, I re-invented myself and returned to a career as a singer, songwriter and guitarist, once abandoned upon acceptance into Law School. We have not looked back. TRL: You made the leap from a lengthy career in law to being the lead singer of the band "Fresh Air." How easy of a leap was that for you? RZ: Very difficult. The jump from law student to trial attorney was relatively easy because legal thinking for the most part is based on orderly logic. The jump from wanna-be to musician is not so dependent on logic, but based on a process that thrives on a creative unpredictability and spontaneity stirred by a knowledge of what has come before. Just developing the callouses necessary to play guitar was a physical barrier not encountered in the practice of law. TRL: How did the band come about and please introduce the members to our readers! RZ: "FRESH AIR" has been in existence for four years, with us always searching for the right combination of chops, maturity and appearance in our members. That happened 15 months ago when Alex Mallet, age 27, with a well-earned reputation as one of South Florida's finest guitarist players, Miguel Cruz, age 23, our drummer, with machine like discipline and a sense of time one rarely encounters, and Ricky Risquez, age 21, our touring bass player, whose ability to dance and be forever in the pocket gets everyone's attention, especially our female fans. Also Robert Sherber, an old man of 37, holds down the fort as our bassist for studio and local gigs, enjoying a reputation as the most wellrounded bass player in South Florida. I have the enviable task of lead singer, frontman and bringing doughnuts on road trips. TRL: What has been the bands most memorable career accomplishment thus far? RZ: Having our music played on more than fifty (50) radio outlets, FM, AM and world wide NET this year alone, to an enthusiastic response, represented a major jump from relative obscurity to doors being opened via Radio interviews and quality festival gigs around the country upcoming in 2017.
TRL: Are there any upcoming events or projects for Fresh Air that you’d like to mention? RZ: Our new album, the 6th for yours truly Ric Zweig, and the first for RZ and "FRESH AIR" will be dropped in early 2017. The band will start a tour this November, 2016 with stops in Northern Florida, culminating with an appearance at the GATOR BASH in Larose, Louisiana, just outside of New Orleans. "FRESH AIR" will be re-locating from our present home of Hollywood, Fl to our new home of New Orleans, LA in January of 2017 to seek fame and fortune or in the alternative, just a whole lot of fun. Not content to just be a studio band, "FRESH AIR" thrives on playing LIVE shows and meeting our burgeoning number of new fans. Our website, with almost a quarter of million visitors, the majority of them this year, is www.riczweig.com!
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VOICE& & I grew up in poverty and would write poems to ease my mind; I always read them back on the public bus while I was commuting to and from school. I would over-hear the beats from people’s headphones and would start timing my poems to their metronomes. Before I knew it my poems had become songs and I would share them online and my songs started to spark curiosity as I was gaining thousands of views on my songs as an unknown artist. I got put on my first tour to start performing in August 2016 at which point I have also started work on my first solo mixtape. The song "SACRIFICE" I have on my profile is a sneak peek at the mixtape. It is currently the only released song from the mixtape project. The song "NO ESCAPE" is one of my trademark tracks because of the emotional feedback from my audience after performing it; it is based on a true story and is raising awareness for Domestic Violence Survivors. As an artist it is my job to help change the world even if its one person at a time one show at a time. If you are seeking immediate assistance regarding Domestic Violence the 24/7 phone hotline is 1-800-799-7233 I am Voice. VICTORIOUS OBLIGATIONS INSIDE THE CHOSEN ENTITY We are #VoiceNation
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Voice: My name is Voice, Victorious Obligations Inside the Chosen Entity (Zachary Vick). I start my story off by witnessing my brother getting stabbed in 2008 and I had to go to school the next day and act like everything was fine. I ended up hiding in the locker room during gym class and turned my mp3 all the way up and threw it at the wall. The headphones got caught on my hoodie and fell to my feet. Still hearing the beat I sank to the floor and began to write about how I felt and only being able to hear the beat, it naturally evolved into a song. That very night when I got home I went to the public library to download a beat onto the mp3 player and recorded the entire thing on it. All up until I lost my mp3 player I would play that song on repeat. It was my sanctuary and purest source of inspiration I had growing up and developing into the artist I am today.
The Rhythmic Lounge: What is your creative process for songwriting currently? Do you still start with the creation of a poem? Voice: Nowadays my creative process revolves around a full pot of coffee and a boom-pat beat turned up so loud it drowns out my entire environment. I really don't like writing if the beat isn't deafening. The poetry behind the music comes naturally now and I don't have to put extra effort into making it seem like a piece of art, I focus more on every individual word am using to ensure I am projecting exactly what I'm intending to.
The Rhythmic Lounge: Your song “No Escape” deals with the very serious topic of domestic violence. What made you create such a powerful track? Voice: I received a message from a loyal #VoiceNation member one day asking if I had ever created a song about Domestic Violence because she was having a really rough time dealing with her experiences. I reluctantly told her I had never made a song like that, but I promised her that I would help her in any way I could if she would give me the time. About an hour went by and I had written up both verses to the song and called her on the phone so she could be the first to hear it. While on the phone she started crying and couldn't stop telling me how thankful she was that a song like that now existed just for her and based on her true story. I never had the intention of raising awareness for Domestic Violence but as an artist it is my duty to help out in any way I can. I am glad that encounter happened for many reasons but most notably is the live performance side, every show I have ever done and performed "No Escape" at has left the crowd with tears in their eyes. It's moving to know that even as a single person you can still make a difference.
The Rhythmic Lounge: Do you have any news or upcoming events that you’d like to mention to our readers? Voice: I just want #VoiceNation to know how much I love their support and that without it I would be nothing. I have been told my music is the reason some people are still here today and those people need to know the fact that they are here is the only reason I am here as well. I look forward to networking with many more talented artists in the future and I am a very open and easy to approach person. Go to my website and click any social media logo and send me a message and I'll respond ASAP, whether it's music, acting, modeling, or just community relations I will help out in any way I can. Visit Voice at www.VoiceNationOfficial.com
Larry Luve
Born on August 31, 1974 and raised in a small town in Georgia called Millen which is the county of Jenkins that hold a population of about 3,492 people. I’m known to friends and family as Larry “Luve” but my biological name is Larry Wright Jr. I grew up in poverty, which was a struggle for me because I was surrounded by the activities of the street life. There were drugs, prostitution, violence, and alcohol bootlegging etc. around me. Although I live in this type of environment, I refused to become a product of my environment so I found other ways to entertainment myself. I began writing poetry at the age of 8 years old because I didn’t have a lot of material things growing up which allowed me to be creative and just write about the things going on around me. I still can remember winning 1st place in a poetry contest in elementary school in which I wrote about “the Ghetto”. I used poetry and music to escape from the madness that surrounded me at that time. My love for music began to grow as I got older and can still remember my very first tape that was giving to me by my mother. She bought me a Run D.M.C. cassette tape for Christmas and a boom box that I couldn’t even carry. I would walk around with my Kangoo hat on listening to “walk this way” and my favorite “Run’s House” all day long. I also was a major fan of Melle Mel, 2 Live Crew, Slick Rick, KRS One, Kilo, Too Short, Mc. Shy D, Africa Bambaataa, and more. I then began to transform my poetry into rap lyrics and would use instrumentals from artists to create my own songs. As a teenager, I met up with a childhood friend of mine by the name of Earl B.K.A. “Prince Magnetic” who was at the time our hometown D.J. Believe me when I say that this guy owned every 12inch album that was on the market back in the late 80’s such as “The Get Fresh Crew” and “Eric B/rakim” I Ant No Joke”. We would be in his room making and looping beats from some of the best in the rap game. “Prince” had a homemade studio with two turntables, a mixer, an equalizer, one big speaker, and an amp and let’s just say that his mom use to hate to see me come because she knew it was about to be noisy. We formed a rap label called Mini Stiles Records in which we would copyright our songs by mailing them to ourselves so it would have the stamp on it. We would go around having M.C. battles and talent shows for the local talent in our town. After graduating in 1994 from Jenkins County High school in my hometown of Millen Ga, I wanted to learn more about music so I attended the Art Institute of Atlanta, Ga. It was a major step toward pursuing my lifelong dream to become an M.C. I learned hands-on-training at (AIA) and the knowledge/skills I would need to know in the music industry. Being in Atlanta at that time in the mid 90’s was great for me because it was known for being one of the hottest cities around for music. There were companies such as So-So Def, La face, Rowdy, and Def Jam South etc. After completing my studies at (AIA), I moved back home where years later I committed a felony, which landed me in prison for 10 years back in 2002. I was released in 2012 and from then to now I haven’t looked back since. I attended this online college and graduated on July 05, 2015 with an associate’s degree in science, and continuing for a Bachelor degree in business. I feel like “I already know everything about the street life why not learn about something that I don’t know.” I am now currently an intern at Lg Music Publishing Company under the CEO/Founder Ms. Renita Holyfield who has not only been a mentor of mine but also a true friend. All I ever wanted to do was become an M.C. and be recognized for my lyrical gift. I could care less about fame; all I want is for people to remember my name. Respect!
https://plus.google.com/u/0/11467495549611902755//posts
https://twitter.com/Larry
https://www.reverbnation.com/luve699?
https://www.instagram.com/wrightlarry697/
!!!!!!!!https://soundcloud.com/larry-luve https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-luve-45104372?trk=hp-identity-name
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www.pozeproductions.com/profile/LarryLuv https://www.pinerest.com/wrightlarry697/
www.therhythmiclounge.com
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Larry Luve: I go by the name of Larry Luve in which I inherit from my homies growing up. I was born and raised up in a small populated town in Georgia called Millen. I been in the music business for almost 20 years now and attended the Art Institute of Atlanta back in 1995 after I graduated from high school to study Music Entertainment Management. I then became more familiar with the music industry after I started networking with artists in the industry, learning hands-ontraining, and how to become independent in the music world. Although music is my passion, I like to seek knowledge because to me knowledge is power. I just received my associates degree in science and continuing for my BS degree in business to help me better organize my independent record labels, which is called "Mini Stiles Records, Inc."/"Full of Life, Inc.". I just want independent artists to know that behind all the glitz and glamour in this industry "90% of it is business" for real.
TRL: You grew up in a rough area in Georgia, and those tough circumstances encouraged you and brought out your creative side, where others would have given up! How were you able to choose the better path? LL: As a youngster growing up in poverty in the ghetto and being surrounded by the street life on the daily basis, I witnessed so much as a youth. However, I never wanted to be a product of my environment and the older I got the wiser I became and being that I had a passion for poetry writing & music, it really helped me escape the desires of the street life. Although I didn't have a choice of being raised in the ghetto; I still had the mentality of making a name for myself through my art of poetry writing & music. I grew up listening to Run D.M.C., Melly Mel, The Get Fresh Crew, Jam Pony Express D.J's, Kilo, MC.Shy D., Too short, and Uncle Luke etc. Music just took me out of the hood to a place where I was isolated from all of the madness that surrounded me back then. From then on, I knew what was my destiny and pursued to chase my lifelong dream as a songwriter/artist.
TRL: Have you considered expanding your talent into other areas of music or entertainment? If so, which? LL: Of course, because expanding your brand is what marketing is all about in this industry. Its no limits to what you can do to explore your options in this industry in which technology has taken over. However, my main focus is to remain versatile in business and operate not only a hip-hop label but R&B and soul as well. I think expanding globally is awesome as well in this industry because the majority of our listeners is from other countries besides the U.S. so in order to become successful in this business, you can't put limits on your talents. Sourcing is always good for business.
TRL: Your path to where you are now with your life and with music was not an easy one. What advice do you have for those with a passion and talent for music, whom are struggling to make the right decisions and turn things around? LL: To anyone that is serious about their talents or goals in life, I would just encourage them to never give up on themselves and learn more about the business your apart of because knowledge is power and once you know it, then no one can take that away from you or tell you otherwise. It is very important to take your destiny in your own hands and don't let anyone treat you like a puppet on a string. Yes, it is a very hard task to become successful in this industry but what job you know where you don't have to put forth effort, time, and dedication into. Control your own destiny and become the artist you always dream of.
TRL: Do you have any news, projects or upcoming events that you’d like to mention to our readers? LL: I just released my new debut single " Just a Player" out now and working on my EP Album right and don't forget to check out the first single on the EP Album entitled "Microphone Check" which is doing well on YouTube and Twitter. I’ve been working very hard trying to promote these singles so I won't be doing any shows until next year after I receive my BS degree. I will leave the viewers with this, and that is to never give up and reach for the stars because the sky is the limit! Holla. !
where creativity lives
DECEMBER / / 25
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