TRL MAGAZINE SEPT 2018 #2

!!!!!Music!!!!!!!!! !

Fine!Arts!!!!!!!!!!

Comedy!!!!!!!!!

Fashion!!!!!!!!!

Esthetics!!!!!!!!!!!

Literature!

!The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine

B.D. KOLD !

! !

SEPTEMBER!2018!

Volume!54!#2! !

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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

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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

B.D. Kold

16

Destiny Robbins

6

B.D. Kold

18

Heidi Fly

8

R. Danette Johnson

22

Ron Handy

LoftP

23

JJ Appleby

10

B.D. KOLD There are plenty of people in this world that lose their way and never make it back on course. B.D.Kold was almost one of those people forever lost in a mist of chaos.

Growing up outside of Baton Rouge, trouble found the then 13-year-old B.D.Kold, known then as Brandon Stovall. One wrong decision after the next led him to not only stealing a car and driving it across state lines at that age but totaling it. Next came a string of questionable choices that involved drugs.

Everything from dealing with addiction ruled in the coming years. In between then and now B.D.Kold found strength in hip-hop. It gave him something that nothing had before but the naivety of that troubled 13-year-old was in the back of his mind and the negativity of the streets crept back into his life. In 2014 something finally clicked. It was time to turn his life around or not have much time on earth left. It was then that he entered a disciple program and turned his life around thanks in part to pastor Kenneth Stewart. It was as if he'd been reborn with a clear head on his shoulders. No longer a prisoner of the past, B.D.Kold was able to push towards his future, one that involved just him and his music. With Walking In Faith The EP, B.D.Kold hopes to break through the grit that often clouds the hip-hop industry and deliver his profound, honest and interesting take on the genre. Having a past littered with negativity is nothing new to the rap game, but B.D.Kold stands out for coming out the other side of that all with the help of the Lord and his faith. Every track on this recording sounds personal to the artist, and that makes every song seem like something special. Each cut has its own meaning in the bigger story. The EP sounds amazing too, and the combination of meaning and sound is absolutely terrific. Right from when the first track, “Make It Rain” opens, it’s hard not to connect with B.D.Kold as a person when listening to his music. That is the goal of “Walking In Faith The E.P.”In today’s gritty rap industry, it is difficult to find artists who are profound, honest, and interesting. B.D.Kold is as such throughout this record. The rapper notes, "Anyone dealing with addiction, a broken home, loneliness, depression, poverty, or any type of sickness or ailment - I believe God can heal and change them because he has done this for me in my life, and for the people around me as well. “Come July 2018 B.D. Kold will release his second project, Heart Condition. This will allow him to gain more traction for his name and his mission as he is dedicated to not only performing for entertainment but for those in search of something more. He wants to perform and minister throughout the country, impacting everyone he comes across along the way.

The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you!

B.D. Kold: Hello friends and family, fellow readers of The Rhythmic Lounge, i would like to introduce myself, I am a gospel artist in the genre of Rap, under the name of B.D.Kold born Brandon Dwayne Stovall, I grew and currently live about 20 miles outside Baton Rouge, Louisiana, I started doing gospel in the January of 2018 with the release of my single “make it rain” since then i have release 2 projects both EPs, heart condition being the latest in July, in march of 18 i put out walking in faith, make it rain being the lead track on that project, I just want people to know and understand that God will change you, he took a pistol packing whiskey drinking pill poppin mad man, and turned him into a man of God, he’ll meet you right where u are, God bless you in the mighty name of Jesus, may the spirit and presence of the Lord rest upon you

TRL: The path to where you are now with your life was not an easy one.

What advice do you have for those with a passion and talent, whom are struggling to make the right decisions and turn things around?

B.D. Kold: Never Give up, never allow the dream and passion God gave you to die out, through it all i hung onto the fact that God made me for a purpose, all ways pray in all things

TRL: What has been your greatest career accomplishment thus far?

B.D. Kold: To be honest with you, making music that my nieces and nephews and my kids when they come into the picture can listen to as much and as loud as they want and no one can tell then to turn it off, also being in a place where my mother no longer worries about me is nice

TRL: Do you have any news or upcoming events that you’d like to mention to our readers?

B.D. Kold: Yes, I’ve done a ton of features for Jenny Trindall and Millea Mckenny for an upcoming praise album called canvas of grace, check it out, Oct 5th i will be at southern university, we are trying to bring unity to the city of baton rouge, I’m blessed to be apart of these type of events !

R. Danette Johnson My name is R. Danette Johnson. My parents (Mr. Sherry and Lisette Johnson) bought me a piano when I was 5 years old and made me stick with taking lessons. My Dad’s words were, “As long as you live in this house, you will continue to play the piano and take lessons!” (SIGH) I am a classically trained pianist. I studied at, The Wilcox Academy of music; in Brandon, FL. I was raised in the church.

My Godfather the late Bishop Eddie Newkirk and my Great Aunt the late Mrs. Naomi L. Jones acknowledged my musical gifts and potential at an early age. My Godfather used to make me play the piano for Sunday school. I did not like it at the time, but his vision about my life soon came to a reality. I began directing the choirs at my church (St. John Cathedral) at the age of 12.

When I was growing up, I was exposed to a variety of music. I played in recitals often. I am thankful for that, because it made me appreciate how music was made and where it came from. I have a deep love for classical music. It’s so beautiful, serene and powerful. I also have a deep love for Gospel, R&B, Soul, Jazz, Hip Hop, Pop, Rock, Country…etc. I hold a B.A. degree in English/Pre-Law from Talladega College. I also hold a M.S. degree in General Psychology from UOP. I branched out even further and joined the United States Army. In the past, I felt confined when it came to my music.

Grateful, but confined. God has given me the opportunity to share my music all over the world! I intend to bring a positive message with an incredible and unique sound. I HOPE THAT THE MUSIC I CREATE WITHOUT LYRICS, WILL CAPTIVATE LISTENERS. IT IS ALSO MY HOPE THAT MY MUSICAL CREATIONS WITH LYRICS, WILL INTERTWINE WITH ONE ANOTHER AND BIRTH KNOWLEDGE AND LOVE. DivaFly® DivaFlyMusic collaborates with Grammy Award Winning Producers and Grammy nominated producers for artist development.

The Rhythmic Lounge: Please introduce yourself and give the readers a brief background for those who aren’t familiar with you!

R. Danette Johnson: Hello my name is R. Danette Johnson. I own DivaFlyMusic. I also produce, write, promote...etc. for artist. I am a classically trained pianist. I also have played for various gospel choirs, in various denominations. I am a graduate of Talladega College, Talladega, AL where I received my B.S. In English/Pre-Law. I received my M.S. Degree in General Psychology from UOP. I am also United States Army Veteran. I currently live in my home city of Tampa, Florida. I've loved music from the day I came into this world. My parents said when they played music; I would lay still and gurgle...as if I was trying to sing. I also collaborate with Grammy Award winning and nominated producers and engineers.

TRL: If you could choose one person growing up that hand the biggest influence on your musical/artistic abilities, who would that be?

RDJ: I would choose my Dad. My Dad would play all genres of music, when I was growing up. He was instrumental in making sure I took piano lessons. When I wanted to quit, he started taking piano lessons to compete with me. He looked so awkward learning how to play. He was 6.3 and had huge hands. Watching him trying to play Fur Elise was entertaining and also amazing.

TRL: Have you considered expanding your talent into other areas of entertainment? If so, which?

RDJ: When I started DivaFlyMusic, it was exclusively for my music. The music I produced and released. I never thought DivaFlyMusic would become as big as it is...this fast. I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not where I use to be. If I could expand in the entertainment business, it would be as a music consultant for major record labels.

TRL: Are there any upcoming events or projects that you’d like to mention?

RDJ: Currently, I'm working with a few artists and they will be releasing their projects in the near future. If anything, I would like people who haven't heard of DivaFlyMusic to check us out. You can find my music on all digital outlets. Under DivaFly and DivaFlyMusic. !

Loftp (Life of the Party) Podcast

By Ross Guity (Facebook: Ross Guity; Instagram @R.G.Major)

The bold, opinionated and humorous quintet of Steve Lu, Mr. WhatWinnersDo, Trey, Mila and Momma Miah are collectively bringing a fresh new product to the Worldwide Web in the form of their interestingly unique YouTube podcast LOFT P (Life OF The Party). As of this writing, Loft P is in it's second season and are aiming to build on their buzz from local to national. The podcast is definitely winning and is most certainly entertaingly unfiltered. We at TRL caught up with the crew for a brief Q.and.A session.

LoftP100.com YouTube.com/C/LoftP ! !

Ross Guity (The Rhythmic Lounge): Briefly tell us why you ladies and gents consider yourselves the life of the party.

LoftP: We consider ourselves the life of the party because of the amount of energy each co-host brings to the Podcast. It's very different in a sense we all try to entertain our listeners, but in our own unique ways. We love to turn up during the show with a slight sense of maturity, yet we discuss all topics. Nothing is off limits. Aside from our podcast we also host the hottest events throughout the city of Atlanta.

Ross Guity (TRL): Why should we tune in to the podcast?

LoftP: Listener should tune into the Loftp (Life of the Party) Podcast because you never know what is going to come out of one of the co-host mouth. We have the luxury to discuss adult conversations that really resonate with our listeners. When people tune in they seem to gain more interest in our #LoftLetters. Our #LoftLetters are drama filled notes our social media followers and listeners write in to us asking for advice. Some of the most craziest stories you will ever here come from our #LoftLetters. Just tune in and see.

Ross Guity (TRL): Any surprises that we can anticipate in the near future?

LoftP: Surprises, well our guest are special to us, and you never know who will come on our show. We also will be doing live shows in the near future so we can directly connect with our listeners.

Ross Guity (TRL): Define the art of RHYTHM from the Loft P perspective.

LoftP: The Art of RHYTHM to LoftP is movement. We are all about movement, progression, and winning in what we do. RHYTHM is a passionate word, and all the co-host are passionate about what level of energy they bring to the show. !

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

! ! !

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/

Iris%M.%Williams

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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%

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% 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.%%%

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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!

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. !

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!

www.therhythmiclounge.com