!!!!!Music!!!!!!!!! !
Fine!Arts!!!!!!!!!!
Comedy!!!!!!!!!
Fashion!!!!!!!!!
Esthetics!!!!!!!!!!!
Literature!
!The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine
Calandra Gantt !
! !
JULY!2018! Volume!52!#1! !
Essince (TRL): How did you get started in music? Dean FM: I've been doing music since the age of 4. I started taking music lessons and continued to take lessons with various instruments including voice and vocals up to this present day.
Essince (TRL): Who were your favorite artists growing up? Dean FM: Missy Elliot, Lil Kim, Foxy Brown, Eve, Nicki Minaj
Essince (TRL): It's 2018, is hip-hop ready for openly gay artists? Dean FM: Yes, but all of them need to understand the industry does have its naysayers. All gay artists have to deal with them, including myself. This however should not be a deterrent as the rest of society is ready and actually excited to see the gay culture continue to influence and emerge more and more in hip-hop music.
Essince (TRL): What message do you have to people who hear your music? Dean FM: Live without limits but within reason.
Essince (TRL): What are you working on this year? Dean FM: A mixtape. and we are working on the plans of recording a professional music video.
Essince (TRL): Any shout outs? Where can we find you online? Dean FM: Shout out to Jass Bianchi. You can find me online at www.deanfm.com. Also be sure to follow me on Spotfiy @dean fm, Instagram @deanfrasermilford and Facebook @deanfmmusic.
For a FREE download, Text “Dean� to 345345.
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.therhythmiclounge.com to see the profiles for the great talent displayed in this issue and take a look at our new magazine site at http://www.trlmagazine.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
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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Magazine cover Graphic Designer: The Rhythmic Lounge
**We$do$not$alter$client’s$interview$responses,$in$order$to$give$our$readers$a$true$representation$of$that$individual,$group$or$company**$ $ $
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.
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The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine
2
Essince Dean
16
Destiny Robbins
6
Calandra Gantt
18
Heidi Fly
12
Kevon Pagis
22
Diamond Queen
14
Iris Williams
24
Kimberly Kent
Calandra Gantt
Calandra Gantt has been called and anointed since the age of 3 years old to minister to the nations through music. She constantly fulfills her calling by taking the gospel arena by storm. Calandra is a saved and anointed woman of God, known for her energetic live performances and her unique style of making every song her own. It is for this reason that her peers have deemed her “The Princess of Praise.” Calandra is a firm believer that true praise and worship begins in the heart of a Christian and is only capable by having a personal relationship with Christ. It is through her personal walk with Christ that has developed her in to the songwriter she is today. Not only is she a singer and songwriter but she is a musical directress, teacher, minister, instrumentalist, community servant, actress, arranger, producer, radio host, mentor and international award winning gospel-recording artist. Through her music ministry her desire is to reach the masses and encourage them to have a personal relationship with Christ. Calandra has been able to infuse jazz and contemporary with her praise and worship style. Her experiences can be felt in her lyrics and expressive vocal style that reveals the many facets of who this artist was and has become on this journey. Calandra uses her gift to continuously bless others by sponsoring and singing on benefit concerts and through volunteer work in her community. She has been blessed to travel to various states sharing her music ministry and the stage with well-known national and inspired artists. God also elevated this woman of God to become licensed in 2009 and ordained in 2018 to preach the gospel to the masses. She is known in this arena as a ball of fire teaching with simplicity and under the anointing. She gave her life to Christ at the early age of 9 years old in her home church – Greater Moses Chapel Baptist Church, where she currently serves under the leadership of Pastor and First Lady Willie Montgomery as Youth Overseer/Mentor, Youth and Young Adult Sunday-School Teacher, Minister of Music and Praise & Worship Leader. She directed her first choir at the age of 13 and continues to develop and train choirs to this day. She is a 4x Rhythm of Gospel Nominee, YGEA Award Nominee, 5x Prayzefactor People Choice Award Nominee, Music Love Awards Praise/Worship Artist Nominee, Gospel Image Award Nominee and 5x IGARA Radio Alliance Award Nominee, 2017 Voices of Gospel Award Nominee. She is the 2015 Akademia Award Winner for Best Christian/Pop Album and 2017 Prayzefactor People Choice Praise and Worship Artist of the Year. She was nominated as 2018 Female Artist of the year for the VOGMA and Songwriter of the year for IRAA Awards. She is also the 2018 ACHI Magazine Songstress of the year and 6x Prayzefactor People Choice Award Nominee (2018). God blessed her also with her own radio show, “The Princess of Praise Show “that aired every 2nd and 4th Friday on WYZE. She released 2 singles My Season and Living Miracle in November of 2015. Her music can be found on iHeart Radio, Spotify and all digital retailers. She is excited about what God is doing for the ministry. She re-released her album entitled, I Surrender -Songs of Reflections, VOL. 1. In 2017 and is scheduled to release her 4th album entitled, “The PWS Experience, Vol. 5 Live and Unplugged in 2018. She was the host of her radio show, “The Princess of Praise Show” Monday – Saturday nights on W.E.M. The Blaze, which God has elevated now into her own television show on The OnPoint Channel and will debut in 250 million viewer’s homes Her goal is to use this platform to help elevate fellow singers, businesses and ministries. She will begin The Prayzefactor Inspired Artist Tour in June thru November traveling nationally and internationally. Her desire is that when you come into her presence that you leave blessed, inspired, and encouraged to give God all the praise. She is Faithful, Focused and Fruitful.
Website: www.calandramusic.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/calandra_pop3 Facebook: www.facebook.com/CalandraPop3 Periscope: @calandra_pop3 Instagram: princessofpraise3 ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gw/artist/calandra-grantt/id157661306 Reverbnation: www.reverbnation.com/calandragranttprincessofpraise YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/princessofpraise3
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Calandra Gantt: Minister Calandra Gantt has been called and anointed since the age of 3 years old to minister to the nations through music. She constantly fulfills her calling by taking the gospel arena by storm. Calandra is a saved and anointed woman of God, known for her energetic live performances and her unique style of making every song her own. It is for this reason she has been deemed as "The Princess of Praise" by her peers. Calandra is a firm believer that true praise and worship begins in the heart of a Christian and is only capable by having a personal relationship with Christ. It is through her personal walk with Christ that has developed her in to the songwriter she is today. Not only is she a singer and songwriter but she is a musical directress, teacher, minister, instrumentalist, community servant, actress, arranger, producer, radio host, mentor and award winning gospel artist. Through her music ministry her desire is to reach the masses and encourage them to have a personal relationship with Christ. Calandra has been able to infuse jazz and contemporary with her praise and worship style. Her experiences can be felt in her lyrics and expressive vocal style that reveals the many facets of who this artist was and has become on this journey. Calandra uses her gift to continuously bless others by sponsoring and singing on benefit concerts and through volunteer work in her community. She has been blessed to travel to various states sharing her music ministry and the stage with wellknown national and independent artists. God also elevated this woman of God to become licensed in 2009 and ordained in 2018 to preach the gospel to the masses. She is known in this arena as a ball of fire teaching with simplicity and under the anointing. She gave her life to Christ at the early age of 9 years old in her home church – Greater Moses Chapel Baptist Church, where she currently serves under the leadership of Pastor and First Lady Willie Montgomery as Youth Overseer/Mentor, Youth and Young Adult SundaySchool Teacher and Praise & Worship Leader. She directed her first choir at the age of 13 and continues to develop and train choirs to this day. She is a 4x Rhythm of Gospel Nominee, YGEA Award Nominee, 5x Prayzefactor People Choice Award Nominee, Music Love Awards Praise/Worship Artist Nominee,Gospel Image Award Nominee and 5x IGARA Radio Alliance Award Nominee, 2017 Voices of Gospel Award Nominee. She is the 2015 Akademia Award Winner for Best Christian/Pop Album and 2017 Prayzefactor People Choice Praise and Worship Artist of the Year. God blessed her also with her own radio show,”The Princess of Praise Show “that aired every 2nd and 4th Friday on WYZE. She released 2 singles My Season and Living Miracle in November of 2015. Her music can be found on iHeart Radio, Spotify and all digital retailers. She is excited about what God is doing for the ministry. She re-released her album entitled, I Surrender -Songs of Reflections, VOL. 1. In 2017 and is scheduled to release her 4th album entitled, “The PWS Experience, Vol. 5 Live and Unplugged in 2018. She was blessed to host her radio show, “The Princess of Praise Show” Monday – Saturday nights on W.E.M. The Blaze, which God has elevated now into her own television show on The OnPoint Channel/Xperience on Demand and will debut in 250 million viewer’s homes. Her goal is to use this platform to help elevate fellow singers, businesses and ministries. She was nominated as 2018 Female Artist of the year for the VOGMA and 2018 Songwriter of the year for IRAA Awards. She is the ACHI Magazine 2018 Songstress of the Year. She has received 6 Nominations for the 2018 Prayzefactor People’s Choice Award and 3 Nominations for the Showtime Entertainment Gospel Music Awards. She is a part of the 2018 Prayzefactor Inspired Artist Tour that will travel national and international. Calandra volunteers to teach the musical arts to elementary kids that may never have the chance to learn piano or voice. In the future, her goal is to open her own music school for. Her desire is that when you come into her presence that you leave blessed, inspired, and encouraged to give God all the praise.
TRL: Who were your musical/spiritual influences growing up? CG: I loved Billie Holiday, Mahalia Jackson, John P Kee and Whitney Houston. My grandfather is my musical inspiration in how to carry the ministry mantle. He is 87 and still plays the piano and sings.
TRL: What has been your greatest professional/career accomplishment so far? CG: I would have to say my greatest accomplishment at this point in my career is singing internationally in Canada for the very first time and being invited to come back because they were blessed by the ministry.
TRL: What do we have to look forward to from you in the near future? CG: We have our upcoming release of our Live Album, more international performances and more television shows and that is just a taste of the platforms God has opened in this season and we are excited to walk in them. !
T Bryant Having been singing and performing for 38 years, Gospel Singer/Comedian, T Bryant is opening new markets to the Word and sharing his gifts across the country one laugh and note at a time. Essince (TRL): Do a lot of people ask how you can do comedy and be a gospel artist? Is there an assumption that comedy has to be dirty? T Bryant: They ask me where do I get my material mostly and I respond by saying from people in general...I find humor in just about anything. I do believe there is an assumption that comedy has to be dirty... but that is not necessarily true...you may have to dig a little deeper from within to win over your audience.
Essince (TRL): When did you start adding comedy to your routine? T Bryant: From day one...that’s the total fiber of my existence.
Essince (TRL): Tell us about your single, "We Win". What does "We Win" mean to you? T Bryant: 'We Win' was birthed through my personal journey thus far in my life ...through every trial and tribulation I had to endure...it made me a better man knowing that I can express my story through power of song that would be an encouragement to all that may listen.
Essince (TRL): In a time when it seems young people are losing faith or confused about what to believe, how does entertainment help them receive The Message? T Bryant: You have to be able to laugh at yourself...everything that we do in life is a graded event...we must recognize that there is a lesson to be learned from our situations that we encounter.
Essince (TRL): What are you currently working on? T Bryant: Currently working on my second album [and] looking forward to releasing it late summer or early Fall
Essince (TRL): Where can we find T Bryant online? T Bryant: On all digital outlets: iTunes, Pandora, Amazon, Google Play..etc.
Essince (TRL): Any final shout outs? T Bryant: To my Lord and Savior, my wife Sheri and daughters, Imani and Imari, and my Producer Legacy City from Streetligion LLC.
!
Hellrayza Jones
was born May 27,
1986 to a single mother working three jobs to make sure he was well taken care of. He often dealt with music, from playing in his middle school band to playing for his church, and part time djing. He never thought of taking it seriously until his senior year of high school. Hellrayza Jones is now a young Mississippian who's been doing his thing for 10+ yrs and doing it strong. Now it's time for him to take it worldwide. He has opened up for many artists in the music industry such as: Lil Boosie, B.G., Ratchet King, Big Tymers, and Juvenile. He is 1 half of the talented Duo Hellrayza and Iceburg which has taken the world by storm with blazing hits such as, "Bang Bang", "Mile Away", "Hoodstarz", and "Destiny." Although having a lot of success in music, he is still humble and willing to work with anyone. He has changed the music scene in different ways and continues to bring something different to the game. Social Media www.facebook.com /hellrayzajones www.twitter.com /hellrayzajones www.instagram .com /hellrayzajones SC - @hellrayzajones
Streaming Sites www.soundcloud.com /hellrayza-jones www.reverbnation.com /hellrayzajones
ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/hellrayza-jones/1118201586
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/1G5NO W tD4NrCDkUrBKKyCm?si=idiLm8BiTQ CT-IAF5i5FFA
Google Play https://play.google.com/store/music/artist?id=Axgh7mqyxfzkksn4om6x6mquavq
!
http://www.ronhandy.com0
Ron Handy 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!
JJ Appleby Kingston, Jamaica!!
Winston!Fraser!,!aka!JJ!Appleby!was!born!in!!! Kingston,!Jamaica!and!later!moved!to!England.! There,!he!was!part!of!the!successful!band,! The!Equators,!who!toured!the!UK,!Spain,!and!even!!!!! went!to!New!Zealand.! ! He's!got!a!folksy,!gospel!sound,!a!unique!Reggae! twist,!love!songs,!and!a!positive!message!! ! http://www.facebook.com/iBmusic.de http://www.traxsource.com/label/19825/iBmusic http://www.beatport.com/label/iBmusic/43146 http://www.junodownload.com/labels/iBmusic/releases/ http://www.iBmusic.de/ https://www.starnow.co.uk/jjappleby/photos/8368981/ https://www.facebook.com/JJApplebyMusic/ https://www.facebook.com/jj.appleby1 https://twitter.com/kinston789 https://soundcloud.com/jj-appleby https://reggaediscography.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/jj-appleby-discography-reggae-singer.html http://jjapplebymusic.wixsite.com/sevenjj-appleby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujs4iYcLBcI&t=129s !!!!!!!Record Label - Ibiza
Management - Ibiza!
Kevon Pagis
was born October 6th, 1990 in Monroe, Louisiana. At the age
of two his mother moved them to Shreveport La. Where he spent his childhood into his early twenties. At the age of eight he began to rap. He grew up listening to various artist and was greatly influenced by many which include; No limit, Wayne, Lupe, Pimp C, HOV, NWA, Andre, NOS, Most Def, Kanye, ACDC and most importantly Nirvana. At the age of only nineteen he was offered several record deals with a couple mainstream labels. However, due to some unfortunate differences he stepped away from the offers and followed his dreams under his own conditions. Kevon than decided to move in with one of his uncles where he spent three years virtually not moving to profect his craft. Within that time he signed with Thug World Universal. However, shortly after, Kevon made the decision to take time off and spend the next two years raising his newborn daughter Freedom. This is when he gained knowledge of his philosophy on his music. As he states "It's therapeutic.. It's full of sound. The vibrations I send out will alter the vibrations of the listener. Which is all we have and is essentially the best form of communication." With his new and refreshed mind. Kevon took a leap of faith and moved to Houston, TX at the age of twenty-five. He there found his rhythm again and got back into his music full time. Kevon Pagis is now at the top of his game and ready to take over as he states; "My art is all over, its everything. I cover all views.. From being the shooter to the person being shot or from Gods perspective to the sinners perspective. I cultivate every emotion I ever had." This is surely what you will see and understand with his latest projects. He is the future of music!
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! I’m Kevon Pagis. An artist originally from Shreveport, LA. I say artist and not rapper because i do more than rap. But indeed Hip-Hop is my first love, my lifestyle, my spirituality. But I wouldn't call myself spiritual by traditional standards. I kind of just do and feel what i want. And everything that i am is subject to change because of my will to live. And to me, you can't really live if you're not ever evolving.
TRL: What effect (positive or negative) did being born and raised in Louisiana have on the creative path that you chose? I guess I should start with the negative so we can end on a positive note. Growing up in Louisiana is hard. It's not just the hood; its economical structure in its entirety is rough. So that forces my side of town to have little hope when there's not much to look for in the entire city. Violence is somewhat of normality so naturally growing up we're subjected to partake in a plethora of undesirable activities. These adversities make for great motivation though. No one wants to live like that. So we work hard with the talents we're blessed with. This is where it gets positive. We want better for our kids so we work with HipHop and any other opportunities to raise awareness of our situation and promote and platform that would allow us to rise above it. The stories i tell are mostly influenced by Louisiana. I cherish my soul and passion so much because i come from a place where that can be taken in a heartbeat. Plus you can't beat the creative energy that Jazz promotes and everyone knows Louisiana culture is heavily influenced by that groove.
TRL: What would you say has been your biggest career moment so far? That question is a difficult one. I consider every move extremely important, but to date, if i had to choose I'd say performing in Atlanta. There were so many people and i gained lots of new fans. And the radio station allowed me to freestyle so my flow introduced me to newly intrigued ears.
TRL: Have you considered expanding your talent into other areas of entertainment? If so, which? Yeh like I mentioned before I’m bigger than rap. And that’s not coming from an arrogant state of mind. What i mean is I’m not confined to just one form of artistry. I’ve co-written books that are being published as we speak. I’ve also directed short films and i direct musical videos. My sister and I organize motivational events for children to become more aware of their potential and learn to focus on manifest creation also. There are plenty of avenues I’m invested in currently but i plan on a lot more also.
TRL: Are there any upcoming events or projects that you’d like to mention? I do want to talk about my album 'Best Rapper Alive Under29'. There's a single out worldwide right now I’m leading with called "Freedom". This will actually be my first album and i worked really hard on it. I don't want to spoil the messages and overall theme so just wait til you hear it and will see what synopsis you come up with. Also I will be just about everywhere during spring and summer and fall so just be on the look out for my name on a flyer near you.
! ! ! Website: www.kevonpagis.com Twitter: www.twiiter.com/kevonpagis Instagram: www.instagram.com/indigo.khay Facebook: www.facebook.com/kevonpagis ReverbNation (#1artist) https://www.reverbnation.com/kevonpagis ! ! ! !
Iris%M.%Williams
,%%
author%and%publisher%of%The$Butterfly$Typeface$ Publishing%is%the%author%of%15%books%including% God$is$in$The$Details,%An$Abundant$Life,%and% several%children’s%books%including%Latch$Key$ Keesha%and%Cancer,$Are$You$Listening?%Each%of% Williams’%books%represents%pieces%of%her% heart.%% Williams%founded%butterfly%typeface% publishing%in%2014%after%attempting%to%publish% her%own%books.%The%expense%and%frustration% helped%her%quickly%realize%there%had%to%be%a% better%way.%“Publishing%should%not%cost%an% exorbitant%amount%of%money,%create%anxiety%or% leave%the%author%feeling%hopeless%and% disappointed.”% Prior%to%owning%her%own%business,%Iris%worked% for%a%large%student%loan%company%in% Indianapolis%Indiana.%She%transferred%to% Arkansas%and%worked%with%another%local% student%loan%company%before%landing%a% position%with%Arkansas%Blue%Cross%and%Blue% Shield%where%she%remained%for%nearly%fifteen% years.%% Iris%earned%a%Bachelor%of%Arts%degree%in% Creative%Writing%and%English%from%Southern% New%Hampshire%University%and%is%currently% enrolled%in%a%Master’s%program%seeking%a% Master’s%degree%in%Marketing.% For%more%information%about%Iris%M.%Williams,% The%Butterfly%Typeface%Publishing%and%TBT% Books,%go%to%www.butterflytypeface.com.%% All%inquires%about%Iris%M.%Williams,%the%books% on%her%site,%speaking%or%workshop%requests,% and%upcoming%book%tours%and%events%may%be% submitted%to%butterflypublicity@gmail.com%
% % % % % % Website:%%www.butterflytypeface.com% Facebook:%www.facebook.com/butterfly.typface% Twitter:%ButterflyTypeface%(@Butterfly_Type)%|%Twitter%
% %
% The%Rhythmic%Lounge:%Please%introduce%yourself%and%give%the%readers%a%brief%background% for%those%who%aren’t%familiar%with%you!% Iris%Williams:%My%name%is%Iris%M%Williams.%I’m%from%a%small%town%in%Arkansas%and%the%youngest%of%my%mother’s% thirteen%children.%I’ve%always%loved%to%read%and%write.%As%a%child,%my%dream%was%to%become%a%teacher%or%a%nurse.% Ironically,%as%an%author%and%publisher,%my%need%to%‘educate’%and%‘nurture’%is%fulfilled%over%and%over%again.%It%wasn’t% until%my%brother%was%diagnosed%with%prostate%cancer,%did%it%occur%to%me%to%step%out%on%faith%and%seek%to%fulfill%a% dream%of%becoming%a%published%author.%I’m%so%glad%that%I%did%because%in%the%process%of%pursuing%a%singular%dream,%I% stumbled%upon%so%much%more.%Several%books%and%my%own%publishing%company%later,%I’ve%not%only%realized%my% dream,%but%I%also%help%others%to%realize%theirs%through%my%publishing%company,%The%Butterfly%Typeface%Publishing.%%%
%
TRL:%You%are%the%author%of%15%books%and%I’m%sure%that%number%will%continue%to%climb.% What%was%the%first%book%that%you%wrote%and%what%was%the%inspiration%behind%it?%% IW:%The%first%book%I%wrote%was%a%children’s%book%titled,%Frankie%Froggy%and%The%Butterfly%Birthmark.%It’s%a%story% about%being%different.%The%inspiration%was%my%granddaughter,%Lyric.%Lyric%has%a%birthmark%on%her%face%and%was% teased%by%the%children%at%her%school.%I%know%firsthand%what%it’s%like%to%be%different%as%I%was%born%with%a%physical% handicap,%and%I%wanted%to%write%a%book%that%encouraged%my%granddaughter%to%embrace%her%difference.%I%wanted% her%to%know%that%it%is%our%differences%that%make%us%unique.%Actually,%our%differences%are%what%sets%us%apart%from% each%other%and%more%often%than%not,%they%are%what%prepares%us%for%our%purpose.%
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TRL:%There%is%an%absolute%difference%between%those%who%work%for%others%and%help%that% person/company%live%out%their%dreams%and%those%who%take%it%a%step%further%and%work%for% themselves%to%live%out%their%own%dreams.%Why%was%it%important%for%you%to%start%your%own% company?% IW:%Honestly,%I%started%my%own%company%to%help%myself.%I%had%no%idea%or%desire%towards%entrepreneurship.%If% someone%had%told%me%I%would%be%doing%what%I’m%doing,%I%would%have%fervently%denounced%it%as%absurd.%I’m%shy%by% nature%and%crave%the%background.%However,%God%had%other%plans%for%me.%I%was%looking%for%a%way%to%help%myself%and% stumbled%upon%a%way%to%help%others.%%My%own%initial%publishing%experience%was%disappointing%and%expensive.%It% wasn’t%long%before%I%realized%that%I%was%not%alone.%Authors%found%me%and%sought%my%assistance.%I%was%hesitant%at% first,%but%quickly%learned%I%had%a%‘gift’%for%it%and%now%more%than%40%authors%and%nearly%90%books%later,%I%find%myself% at%the%helm%of%a%company%that%caters%to%authors%and%writers%that%other%companies%would%either%overlook%or%take% advantage.%%As%a%fellow%author,%I%take%what%I%do%very%seriously%and%I%strive%daily%to%give%all%that%I%have%to%the%authors% who%entrust%their%stories%with%me.%This%is%more%than%a%business.%This%is%a%ministry.%God%is%using%me%and%my% company%to%help%others%in%their%attempt%to%spread%messages%of%hope.%We%here%at%Butterfly%Typeface%Publishing%aim% to%enhance%the%literary%world,%one%word%at%a%time%…%
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TRL:%Are%there%any%upcoming%events%or%projects%that%you’d%like%to%mention?%% IW:%We%have%a%myriad%of%projects%that%are%on%the%horizon%for%2017%to%include%book%releases,%book%tours%and%even% an%online%Etsy%store%featuring%Butterfly%Typeface%paraphernalia%as%well%as%customized%author%items%including% jewelry,%greeting%cards%and%journals.%However,%the%thing%we%are%most%proud%about%is%our%online%bookstore.%Selfe published%authors%have%an%unfortunate%reputation%as%not%being%‘real%writers’.%Nothing%could%be%further%from%the% truth.%The%authors%that%I%have%come%into%contact%with%have%great%stories%and%messages.%Our%online%bookstore%will% offer%these%authors%a%professional,%creative%and%effective%environment%from%whence%to%highlight%their%works.%We% anticipate%the%site’s%launch%within%the%next%few%months.%The%site%will%feature%Butterfly%Typeface%authors,%but%we% will%also%review%submissions%from%any%selfepublished%author.%%
Destiny Robbins Destiny is a natural born performer and is always excited to put her Performance skills to the test in front of a crowd. Throughout the years, she has been working hard to develop her own artistic voice. For her the pleasure of performing comes from forming a connection with her audience and providing a memorable entertaining and empowering experience. Destiny is known for her motivational poetry and for being a champion for change! Some of her performances involve collaboration with local musicians! She recently won a Sacramento slam competition and is nominated for Spoken Word Artist of the Year through The Northern California Entertainers Music Awards Show. Destiny has won many awards. Destiny makes regular appearances on 97.5 KDEE FM as a reoccurring guest co-host on the hit show Family Matters. Her poems are also played in rotation on 107.7 QLJN (formerly KLJN) and other terrestrial and online radio stations.
https://www.destinyrobbins.com/ Artist Website: https://www.destinyrobbins.com/ Twitter Handle: @WIYDestiny @onenation10 Facebook Artist Page: https://www.facebook.com/walkinyourdestiny/ Management: For Management Please Contact One Nation Under God Records Email: onenationundergodinc@gmail.com
The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Destiny Robbins: My name is Destiny Robbins, once upon a time I used to say a poem that started like, "They call me Destiny the Diva and I'm pleased to meet ya". I've since past that time and now introduce myself primarily as a Spoken Word Artist, Author and Motivational Speaker. In addition to this, I am a mother of two young children. I am a part time Professor and Part time College Counselor among many other titles and roles. I have been in the field of entertainment for a long time. I was writing songs as a young person, danced in praise dances, etc. However, I very quickly got bit by the bug of acting and placed a majority of my study and training in this arena. Theater was actually my major before I became more socially conscious in college. This is how I later went on to attain two Associates Degrees (while pregnant and recently giving birth), a Bachelors Degree in Sociology with a minor in pre-law and a Masters of Social Work (while pregnant again and newly parenting). TRL: Who were your creative/spiritual influences growing up? DR: My creative influences and spiritual influences are rather interesting and somewhat diverse. I can remember wanting to pursue a life of music and entertainment when hearing music from Michael Jackson, Brandy and Whitney Houston. I also felt very connected to Aaliyah and India Arie. I actually dressed up as India Arie for Halloween one year. The funny thing is, by the time I was in my pre-teens, I was not allowed to listen to R&B or secular music, so I had to sneak and listen. I was able to listen through the radio and my mother's tapes and cds. I did grow up on a lot of Gospel music as it was transitioning to more of an urban feel. Influences like Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, John P. Kee. I'm also very well aware and connected to more traditional Gospel music. I can also say names like Joyce Meyer as a series of ministries that I grew up listening to. TRL: You already wear so many different hats but have you considered expanding your talent into any other creative areas? DR: I do wear many hats, sometimes I question if I wear too many. I often contemplate on becoming a life coach, because I'm a natural problem solver. I'm also very good at motivating others, advising them, etc. Many people encourage me to start my own talk show and podcast, so I have been seriously giving this some thought. Right now, I've been concentrating on a way to condense my multi talents into one main public brand. For example, you know Oprah as Oprah. She is many things, you don't question them or feel out of place when she is doing a little bit of everything. That's how I want to be. With that said, I'm working on a special production that can incorporate my many talents and parts of my life's stories. TRL: Are there any upcoming events or projects that you’d like to mention? DR: I've been working on my first EP which will be named after one of the singles. "I AM Woman Pt. 1". I want this EP to cover many different elements of being a woman as there are so many. Even though this is the title, I believe there is something in there that even men will be able to relate to or appreciate. My first single just dropped off of the project and its called "Grown & Sexy". This piece has a powerful message and pays homage to an old school way of living, but it has a groove to it. It's just something you have ot experience. This poetic song is available on most digital outlets such as iTunes, Amazon, Googleplay and Spotify. I'm available for booking to speak at schools, churches, and events. I'm also available to perform at schools, churches, organizations, and concerts. What I really love is being booked to intertwine both. People enjoy when I talk and perform my pieces throughout my speaking and sharing of my stories. I'm excited about the listening parties, house concerts that I'm currently doing, and looking to set up a tour. Lastly, I'm also working on producing my one woman show that I alluded to earlier as this will incorporate my many talents of my message filled stories, poetry, music and theatrical abilities. !
Heidi Fly Essince (TRL): How long have you been making music? Heidi Fly: Hello I'm Heidi Fly, Heidi G6 Fly with many AKA's lol, I would like to start off by saying thank you for interviewing me today; I'm totally humbled and grateful for your time. I have been making music for over 10 years now. I got my first big million dollar record deal in 2002 with Dough Zone Records and later I went on to become an Independent Artist after my project was abandoned and shelved, just really out of my control. So I got an attorney and got out of the record deal, which was terrible anyways. I was so naive and young when I signed the deal in the first place.
Essince (TRL): What inspired you to start your own clothing brand? What makes Flyucci different from other brands? HF: I started my clothing line Flyucci by: Flyghtz 1940,which also features fragrances and sunglasses out of the Storm of my grandmother passing and suing my record label for my likeness and name. It was a very depressing, scary, and lonely time for me and my fashion line kept me alive. In my life I have watched, been a victim of and stood up for people being treated poorly due to the color of their skin and I wanted to show my fashion to be known as a "For All" brand, mending and bridging the gap between the races. But on a lighter note, I'm a fly mf and I love fashion. People have always loved to dress like me, get me to style them and stuff. and after all the "Labels" I've purchased I think it's bout time I created my own brand!!!! I've been in so many modeling competitions growing up. In high school I was best dressed, most beautiful, most liked lol I was just always a trendsetter. I always included the "Misfits" even being some what thought of as a "Pretty Girl" I didn't buy into other peoples views of me. I loved everybody. My friends and guys I've dated throughout my life have always been multi-cultural, plus I went from an appearance on the "Bill Cunningham Show" in New York to performing in Africa, Asia, Paris, Canada, and have so many friends everywhere.
Essince (TRL): If you could collab with one artist and Style one person in flyucci who would it be? HF: If i could collar with someone it would be Andre 3000, and that’s probably also the person I would love to style because I know he'll be up for anything and I love that!!!
Essince (TRL): Where do you see urban fashion going? HF: I see Urban Street Fashion going straight to the top!!!! From the American to the Korean streets, I hope to be a brand they rocking and copying lol.
Essince (TRL): Where can we find your music and fashion online? HF: You can find All Flyucci & Flyghtz 1940 products at Flyghtz.com all Heidi Fly music on iTunes. Thank you and Blessings
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www.norbertthomas.webs.com!
Terry Greene One of the most powerful men in the entertainment industry has taking the time to share his great wisdom of becoming successful. Mr. Terry Greene, born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida known as the CEO of PG Entertainment Group/Fa7ith Urban Music, has shared his great success in spreading the word of GOD in his ministry. Mr. Greene is also known as a singer, songwriter, producer, musician, music promoter, TV/ Radio host, and Author. The company provides music and healing ministry to help bring in people that are not saved to the Lord Jesus Christ, and to inspire those who are already saved to spread the word of GOD. This passion that burns deep within Mr. Greene is what allows him to continue his work that he has done for many years, to share a wonderful experience with others who can find peace and joy in Jesus Christ. Mr. Greene was raised by his biological father and mother, and it is no secret of how Mr. Greene became such a business mogul being that his father owned a candy store, 7‑eleven store, and two nightclubs. His mother however pursued her career in education later to become one of the best educators in their local city. Although this family had such a great background when it came to business and education, Mr. Greene found out at the early age of five years old that his passion was to be a singer.
When it comes to contributing to the business, Mr. Greene & his lovely Daughter sub a vast majority of his work out to separate contractors. His music and his powerful message have been promoted worldwide, & he continues to push out this powerful message every chance he gets. A life is more important than fame and fortune and he plans to work harder and earn his wages in hope of being with GOD forever in heaven. Although he has gained much success, he has made it known that to receive that you must be willing to sacrifice. For most, this is extremely hard to do when trying to keep the bills paid and support a family. Mr. Greene had other plans he left his home with $100 in his pocket, and traveled to Los Angeles, California. Despite his parents, family, and friends not being supportive, he remained content with his decision to leave for greater success. He did struggle for a time as he moved from place to place, living with different people who he met along the way, and most nights, sleeping on their couches and their floors. Although he went through such a time, he still managed to reach great heights in success thanks to GOD the father in heaven. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Jazmia M. Greene December 3, 1996 – September 23, 2017
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The Rhythmic Lounge: Have you had any let downs during your journey in the business? Terry Greene: Yes in my 40 professional years in this music industry I was signed to two major record labels in the 80's and the 90's and my career was tied up for 10 years in contracts, before I started my own record label Fa7ith Urban Music a very successful label with many major music awards and nominations to date billboard magazine, soul train, and south Florida music awards, and working with some of the biggest Grammy award producer's, singers, songwriters, and musicians, in the Biz. Wow what a ride.
TRL: Have you lost friends along the way of your career? TG: Yes believe it or not people who I have helped with their own music careers started showing their envy and jealousy toward me so I continued to stay focused in my business.
TRL: Are you currently looking for donations, promotional help, selling of music, etc? If so Explain. TG: Yes we are always open for donations, promotional help, and selling of our music worldwide etc.
TRL: How long have you been doing this type of work? TG: I started in this music industry professionally in New York City in 1976 I was in business school at the time studying in finance and how to run a business and when I was in school I was offered a recording contract with a local record company I passed on it because I didn't think that I was ready to take that big step so in 1979 I was offered a chance to go to Los Angeles, California to be in the music industry again I took that offer and never looked back it wasn't easy I paid plenty of due's for me to achieve what you are reading here on my life in the music buz and all of my success that has come with it trust me it didn't happen over night.
Skype Name:pgentertainmenrgroup Email: terrygreenemusicmogul@gmail.com www.fa7ithmusicministries.us www.facebook.com/greeneterry www.reverbnation.com/greeneterry www.numberonemusic.com/terryg www.myspace.com/greeneterry www.discogs.com/artist/Terry+Greene www.blogtalkradio.com/terrygreeneslivegospelshow
www.linkedin.com/in/pgegf7hm/ http://www.cdbaby.com/all/fa7ithurban
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Terry...Music/195470927173101 www.sonicbids.com/2/EPK/?epk_id=263698 poormagazine.org/node/3499 www.jango.com/music/TERRY+GREENE www.imradio.com/main_index.php?f=artists_view&id=16830 https://twitter.com/TerryPGreene/
Diamond Queen Facebook: Diamond Queen Instagram: The Real Diamond Twitter. : The Real Rap Queen Snapchat. : QueenOfTransRap
Born in Montgomery County Virginia Diamond Queen has always been big into music. She’s lived many places including Giles country, Roanoke City, South Queens. She found her spot in music 6 years ago. She was a joking rapper and would make the craziest & funniest raps just to see what her friends would think during lunchtime. As time went on she really started mastering her skill and flow. She thought, Nicki Minaj, Lil Kim, Foxy Brown, and Eve, etc. came up from spitting real lyrical bars. So why couldn’t she do the same? She’s good at writing her own music and raps about her life stories. Music has always been in her blood, when she was growing up her father was a break-dancer. The first Song she ever fell in love with was “Sorry Miss Jackson,” by the group Outcast she was so young when she first heard it, but remembers it like it was yesterday. Her focus for being in the music industry is to show others to be their self and to show diversity in the world. To show that anyone can accomplish their biggest goal as long as they strive hard and are dedicated. With that being said she went to HotShot 2 StarPower recording studio. She proved herself, and was offered a 3-year recording contract. She is currently in the process of recording cover songs to perfect her craft.
The Rhythmic Lounge: Can you give us a brief background of how you got started in the entertainment business? Diamond Queen: I got started about 6 years ago Writing music and free styling learning to put my thoughts and emotions into Poetry on a piece of paper during lunch at school then I actually started taken my gift seriously after practicing time after time different flows and styles going to different studios, but I was missing something important that everyone else didn't see I needed to feel good about my music not just what people said or what I heard, I wanted a real opportunity and after looking for a label that was legit I signed a 3 year Recording Contract which includes Worldwide distribution with HotShot 2 StarPower LLC. In Hagerstown, Maryland located in the center of downtown and that's where I started to come up. TRL: How would you describe your music style, for those who aren’t familiar with you? Diamond Queen: Free flowing, Energetic, and Chronological A deep heart felt feeling, Strong spoken, Facts, Life Story Telling Emotions. TRL: You write your own music and as we have all heard, everyone has their own writing style and process. What is yours? Diamond Queen: I Listen to instrumentals, gain creative flow, and freestyle into a whole song of what just comes to mind right off the top. TRL: What do we have to look forward to from you in the near future? Diamond Queen: Album dropping, Radio interviews, more promotion to put my name out, Videos, Worldwide Distribution, working on my 2 second Album, more media coverage and HotShot 2 StarPower LLC has the power to send my album to the Major Record Labels A&R’s and once I get my media attention following up HotShot will take me directly to the Major Record Labels to have a face to face with them etc. more Of Diamond Queen! !
Eye'z Radiating out of the USA is Eye'z, a dynamic singer, pianist and actress with versatility, flair and finesse. Versed in the genre of Pop she began her musical journey at the tender age of 4. Influenced by artistes like Aaliyah, Pebbles, Fats Waller, Little Richard, Judy Garland and Michael Jackson, Eye'z crafted her own unique style. Motivated to attain success, she refined her skills by studying music, piano and acting at fine art schools across the San Francisco bay area. Eye'z went on to release a number of tracks including, “Go for it” and “Levitating” (remix) which was featured on Bogo Boy Records compilation and “Dedicated” on Vol. XI. Her diverse artistry of staying true to her roots and embracing the modernity of music landed her a record deal with Bentley Records. Unabatedly, Eye'z compelling persona trickles through her music and forms a deep long lasting connection with the audience. ! The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you! Hello everyone my name is Eye'z I am a singer songwriter. I compose most of my songs at my piano. I’ve been performing for a while and was in the hit musical the Barbary Coast Revue in 2015. My song; Dedicated... is out now online and is featured on Bongo boy hits compilation volume XI TRL: If you could describe your musical style in only 1 word, what would it be? Perfect! But, it’s really hard to describe something like that in one word. But if I could use more than one word it would be; perfectly composed popmelodies. I could also go on about that too... Because I don't want you to forget about the chords! TRL: What has been your greatest career accomplishment thus far? My biggest accomplishment so far is performing last month and the month before with Sceneca St. James in Oakland CA to help raise money for Cross Roads homeless shelter in east Oakland. We performed twice at the 18th annual shake 'n bake and we raised over 11 hundred dollars then the following month we had a personal care drive I brought bags of toiletries to be donated and so did all of the other performers. It was fun because I got to donate stuff That people could really use outside of soap I brought them some; make up perfumes and even make up brushes and some real lotion like; coco butter, Jergens , Avon ('cause you know I got the hook up) and you know that real creamy dry skin type of lotion. To top it all off we raised an additional thousand dollars. It was an absolute fun night! People from all over California came to support. TRL: Are there any upcoming events or projects that you’d like to mention? Yes, I'm going to be doing several performances including hosting a show for the chief Charles Williams 12 9 17 at the Oakland octopus 2101 Webster. I co host his radio show thoughts of a common man at radio Valencia so we are having this all ages event before Christmas so its fun for the whole family every one is welcome!
www.therhythmiclounge.com