FEATURE
ISSUE
11
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34 Part 2 of Lance Alexander on his tell all book, industry beef and more!
51
Young Marqus Phenom...
55 Tru. Teen gives You the skinny ON “SKINNY”!
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The Very Thought of You is a culmination of renowned artists and musicians who helped make my dream come true. This CD features David Hazeltine, Stokley Williams, Jim Rotundi, Bobby Lyle, Jerry Bergonzi, Sheila E., Billy Peterson, Ricky Peterson, Paul Peterson, Jason Peterson DeLaire, Eric Leeds & Tony Axtell. This sophisticated recording will touch your heart in many ways. Purchase Patty Perterson’s “The Very Thought of You” at; www.cdbaby.com/cd/pattypeterson2
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Creole Shrimp
During this season of Lent, many people are looking for delicious seafood meals. Fish provides us with much needed OMEGA-3s and even though we can take a pill to get this, eating the fish itself is by far a better option.
Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers 1/2 cup diced onions 1/2 cup diced celery 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 (14-ounces) can tomatoes 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce 1 tablespoon hot sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon white sugar Salt and pepper 1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined shrimp Green onions, for garnish Directions Preheat crock pot on high. In a fring pan, heat olive oil. Add peppers, onions and celery. Cook until softened. Add chili powder and sautÊ until caramelized. Remove from heat and pour into crock pot. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire, white sugar, salt and pepper. Cook for 1 hour. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes. Serve over rice. Top with chopped green onions. Looking for a wine Pairing.... Try Chardonnay. It is a rich, buttery white wine. Try Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2010. Rated in Top 100 great wines under $20. Great taste and inexpensive. So now it’s the next morning, you are hungry but not for the average breakfast fare. This is when the re-mix comes into play. I am going to take it back to my southern roots and make it simple....Shrimp and Grits!! You already have the shrimp from last night so all you have to do is make a fresh creamy pot of buttery grits and top it off with the shrimp. Remove your grits from the refrigerator and heat them up. The grits will cook quickly so you want your shrimp warm so that you can just add them.
Creamy Grits
3/4 cup instant grits sea salt and ground black pepper 3 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup heavy cream 3 oz cream cheese Chef, Jima Ali
In a medium over medium/high heat bring water to a boil.
The secret to great grits without lumps is to make sure the water is at a rapid boil and while pouring the grits into the water, you should be whisking rapidly. This will ensure a smooth texture in the end. Add some butter while it’s still cooking and add the heavy cream and continue stirring. Then add the cream cheese. Trust me, you mouth is going to thank you. Now all you have to do is portion out your grits and top them off with your shrimp. This is the time that your body says thank you!! If it is a brunch item and you want to add a cocktail...try a Mimosa. 8 ounces orange juice dry Champagne or Prosecco 2 oz triple sec 4 strawberries Rinse and chill Champagne flutes in freezer to frost glasses. Pour 2 ounces of orange juice into each flute, about 1/3 of the flute. Fill almost to the rim with Champagne.
www.pinkdivacatering.com
Tru. Magazine was a proud Sponsor of the 2nd Annual TCUMA Show in Minneapolis last month. The stars came out and we even caught up with Ron Browz and Slick Rick the following night. Pictured Below: Chantel Sings and Rico Nevotion host the show
UP TOWN AND AROUND THE WORLD WITH TRU./ TR
TRU NO FO A&R
TCUMA Sponosors (to the right)Show Host, Comedian Karen Larson . (Above right)Mike Smoove and Ron Browz
Tru. sat down with Limit Forever Recor as an A & R Rep, an concept titled, “The and time IS worth m off with. He goes on making appearance performers from all the lifestyle is crazy the day to day is like concept in today’s w Dolla was in the 612 Group’s Twin Cities
RU TALK TO NO LIMIT FOREVER A&R “DOLLA BILL
U TALK w/ O LIMIT OREVER R “DOLLA BILL
By Lydia King h Dolla Bill, A & R Rep for Master P’s, No rds to talk about his start in the industry nd his desire to sell a new reality show e Lifestyle of an A & R”. “My Knowledge money”, Dollar started the conversation n to explain that when he is traveling and es around the country he’s approached by l different types of backgrounds and that y! Dolla wants to show T.V. viewers what e and feels like his show would be a fresh world of reality T.V. 2 recently as a special guest of Nu Music s Urban Music Awards Show . He was Cont’ on pg 15
Top Right: TCUMA’s featured Minneapolis R&B sensation Shaiana Ginae’ who came and turned it out . (Center) No Limit Forever A & R Rep, Dolla Bill along with Nu Music Group Promoter Casadon Robinson( Center Left) Tru.’s Mike Smoove with Legendary Rapper Slick Rick(bottom Right)
Dolla Bill Cont’ from pg 15 also one of the guest judges the also at the Showcase Showdown, the following day where Minneapolis’ Finest Rap & Hip Hop Artists came out to battle for an opportunity to work with Dolla, and to be a featured artist in an upcoming issue of Tru. Entertainment Magazine. Dolla and I sat on the panel together along with; Project Manager for Jay Z’s Roc Nation; Shannon Ottoson and CEO/Producer of Hustlemode Music Group’s, Carl Adams (Tru will share more on these industry ballers later). As the panel waited for the contestants to sign in for the competition, Dolla tells me the story about how he first met “Master P”… It was during a concert back in the 90’s when “P” first got started in the business as an artist. Dolla was performing at the same concert with his own group. He said that “P” noticed him, took him aside from the group and told him that he was good. The two hit it off right away and establishing a tight friendship. Dolla stuck in with “P” and later “P” gave Dolla a job doing promotions for his company. He says that he put in mad work pressing through all of his projects so one day “P’ approached him while on the Tru. tour in Nashville and asked him how long he’d been doing promotions for No Limit. Dolla’s answer was “three months”; and as the story goes “P” turned to him and said, “well the album went platinum, and guess what… I’ve got something for you”. He says “P” dug in his pocket and pulled out whatever money he had on him
stating, “well this is all I’ve got on me (it was $1200.00) but check your door tomorrow for a Fed Ex”. The following day just as “P” had promised there was a cashier’s check delivered via fed ex for $10,000.00 Dolla says that the two have been like brothers ever since! He says that “P” taught him the idea of being an underground entrepreneur, that means “GO GET IT YOURSELF” if ain’t nobody gonna give you nothing your gonna be poor, broke and starved for the rest of your life. Your time is worth money”. He’s real about that. Dolla spends his time on the road looking for that next big act to take to Master P. During his search he’s also looking to break ground with a hot new reality show concept as the cameras follow him around on his journey. Will “The Lifestyle of an A & R” take off? Dolla’s friends and associates seem to think that he’s got a real winner with the idea so there’s only one way to find out… stay tuned!Catch up with Dolla Bill at; www.nolimitforeverrecords.com
Dolla kicks it w/Tru. Teen’s “Just Justin” & “Franky D”
Pamela Rollins Raises the Roof at The Capri Theater!
The Devil Didn’t Raise Me By: Danielle Svobodny
“The Devil Didn’t Raise Me” is a production by Director/Playwright Pamela Rollins. An expert in her genre, Ms. Rollins has been writing plays for over a decade, this being her fifth play at The Capri Theater. Pamela journeyed from Chi-town to Minneapolis in 1993 to experience the rich art scene the Twin Cities has to offer. Rollins chose a cast that honors the young talent of Minneapolis through scripture and song, the play tells a story of love, betrayal, and redemption. Each actor is worth mentioning but who exceptionally stood out was Chantel Sings (Sharon), Margeaux Davis (Mama Bea), Niya McKnight (Angie), and Queana Ivory (Aunt K). I had the honor of catching up with Rollins before the play, where she generously shared with me her inspiration for story telling. Growing up with younger sisters, being a mother herself and a full time foster parent the past six years; Rollins has seen the effects of love, betrayal, and redemption. Sharing the wisdom of her own father, she advises to “never let anything get you down, no matter how big the obstacle.” Adversity threatens to tear apart the women and men of the family. Sharon (Chantel Sings) is chasing a womanizing man who is attempting to buy her love. Angie (Niya McKnight) is chasing the next high. LaQuanda (Conita Arnold) is chasing the next party as long as there is fine men and cash. The story is realistic and the actors portray the essence of heartache that betrayal and addiction truly creates. Each scene is colored with passion and raw emotion. The audience at The Capri was hand clappin’ and foot stompin’ all the way through to the final scene. If you’re looking for entertainment that will make you laugh, cry and dance at the same time, keep an eye out for Pamela Rollins in the future. I’m sure that Tru. will be seeing plenty more of her!
www.pamelarollinsproductions.com www.facebook.com/pages/Pamela-Rollins-Productions
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TRU. STAGE EVIEW
Pamela Rollins
Lady Williams Writer, Fashionista, Entrepreneur & CEO of Indie Artist Circle Managment www.indieartistcircle.com
Jazzing Up Your Jeans You may not have the luxury of living in a warm climate year round but still want to have that classy and sexy look, so why not jazz up your jeans? Everybody owns a pair, and the right fit and color can give you that look that you desire. Plain is boring, so why not be edgy in your fabulous pair of jeans? If you looking for bold and daring, classic and edgy, or simple with a touch of pizzazz I’ve got you covered! Shirts, jeans, purses, jewelry, and shoes make a complete outfit. Let me show you how to jazz up your jeans! I’ve comprised five options to sure enough make you a showstopper. Option #1 is a red shirt with gold, purples, pinks, blues, and greens; purple wash jeans; gold bangles; gold and multicolored dangling earrings; and a black suede bootie with gold beading in the back. How’s that for bold and glamorous? An outfit that will surely make you the center of fashion talk in an awesome and daring way!
Clothing can be found at Sear’s department stores, Jewelry can be found at Burlington Coat Factory, Shoes for Options 1, 2, 5 can be found at Sheiks apparel, Shoes for options 3, can be found at Burlington Coat Factory.
Jazzing Up Your Jeans Option #2 Daytime: Black knitted blazer; multi –colored sleeveless zebra patterned blouse with attached scarf; mustard colored jeans; mustard and gold hoops; big mustard colored purse and black flats. For that night time look lose the blazer and add these black pumps with specks of color that actually match the blouse! Can you say rock star diva?
Option #3 Is simple yet sophisticated daytime look: beige cream polyester and cotton blend blazer; cream and brown, leopard, sleeveless blouse with attached scarf; dark denim wash jean with silver and dark brown embroidery on the back pockets; dark brown suede wedge shoe. Remove the blazer for a classy night time look.
WWW.INDIEARTISTCIRCLE.COM facebook.com/lady.williams1
Clothing can be found at Sear’s department stores, Jewelry can be found at Burlington Coat Factory, Shoes for Optio
Option #4 Is all about natural classiness: a peach chiffon blouse, medium wash jeans with beige/tan embroidery on the back pocket, peach and clear jewels- earring, bracelets and a long necklace; a big python print bag with browns, creams, tans. Pair this outfit with a cream or natural colored pump and you’re good to go. Can you say classy and chic?
Option #5 Is dark and edgy: a black satiny belted blouse with lace in the back, black and multi fall colored leopard jean, black feather earrings, black pump with front ankle strap. Giving you that sexy meets edgy flare, can you say fierce?
ons 1, 2, 5 can be found at Sheiks apparel, Shoes for options 3, can be found at Burlington Coat Factory.
TRU. CULINARY
IN THE KITCHEN WITH
H SHARON FOX FLATBREAD FAJITA Directions: Mix together the cayenne, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Remove the chicken from the bowl, shaking off excess seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring, until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add 4 Tbs. of water to the skillet, add the peppers and onion to the skillet and cook 2-3 minutes, until they soften slightly. Line a broiler pan with aluminum foil, preheat the broiler, and place the flatbreads on the lined broiler pan. Spread 1/4 of the drained canned tomatoes on top of each flatbread. Put 1/4 of the vegetable mixture on top of each flatbread. Top with 1/4 of the chicken on each flatbread. Sprinkle the tops of the flatbreads evenly with the cheese. Broil 6 inches from the broiler for 3 to 6 minutes, until cheese melts and bubbles and flatbreads are heated through. Garnish with cilantro. Makes 4 servings.
1/2 tsp. cayenne 1/2 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. paprika 1/2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. chili powder 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch strips 1 large green pepper, seeds removed and cut into 1/2-inch strips 1 large red pepper, seeds removed and cut into 1/2-inch strips 1 yellow onion, peeled, cut in half, and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained 4 pieces flatbread (found in most bakery or bread sections) 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese 4 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
CIOPPINO (SEAFOOD SOUP)
1/4 cup olive oil 1 onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 fresh red chile pepper, seeded and chopped 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley salt and pepper to taste 2 teaspoons dried basil 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce 1/2 cup water 1 pinch paprika 1 pinch cayenne pepper 1 cup white wine 1 (10 ounce) can minced clams, drained with juice reserved 25 mussels, cleaned and de-bearded 25 shrimp 10 ounces scallops 1 pound cod fillets, cubed
In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil, and saute the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and chile pepper until tender. Add parsley, salt and pepper, basil, oregano, thyme, tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, paprika, cayenne pepper, and juice from the clams. Stir well, reduce heat, and simmer 1 to 2 hours, adding wine a little at a time. About 10 minutes before serving, add clams, mussels, prawns, scallops, and cod. Turn the heat up slightly and stir. When the seafood is cooked through (the mussels will have opened, the prawns turned pink, and the cod will be flaky) serve your beautifully delicious seafood dish!!
www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com
CHEESE CUPS These tasty little bowls can be easily made to hold a tiny salad as an elegant appetizer for your guests. They are very easy to make! What you’ll need: Fresh Parmesan cheese, shredded Supplies: - Parchment paper - Cookie sheet - Offset spatula - Small glasses (for the shape of your bowl) Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. For each bowl, spread out about 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese for each bowl on your parchment-lined cookie sheet. Make sure you space out the parmesan 2″ apart in case they spread out (which they tend to do). Bake 5-7 minutes, until golden brown, and cool on the cookie sheet for about 20-30 seconds. Use your spatula to gently remove your cheese disks from the cookie sheet to the inverted glasses. Let the cheese drape over the glass to form a bowl shape. You may have to lightly press it down to be sure it’s completely flat on top, because this will actually be the bottom of your bowl. Allow them to cool completely before removing. Fill each cup with your favorite salad. Impress those guests!
George Aja Public speaker, Author, President of Enjoy life movement, LLC george.aja.564@facebook.com
Defeating Disco uragements
By:George Aja
I have often heard statements like “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade” or “when things get tough the tough get going”. These are only but a couple of the statements we hear when going through a rough phase in our lives. What is interesting to me is that most people mean well when they almost instinctively give these answers, however we all know it takes much more than some old saying that may or may not be true. I mean, what if you do get some lemons and you realize you have no sugar, there goes that theory! By the way, when things get tough where in fact are they going? No one tells you, they just say get going! I have lived long enough to experience pain, both physically and emotionally, that can bring about these feelings of discouragement. I have found that there is no easy remedy for these things. I do not feel that these emotions and feelings are all together harmful but if one gets stuck there, that’s when things can get really dark and negative. I know what it is like to be betrayed, watch a child struggle with a physical ailment, losing my Dad, the loss of friendships, watching dreams go up in flames, going through a divorce.Yes people, life can get a bit hairy for sure! Through it all, I have learned a few personal truths that might be of benefit to you if you ever find yourself struggling with discouragement.One of the first things we lose when we enter the realm of discouragement is our:
Perspective It is amazing how quickly we can lose sight of reality and slip into this emotional and mental position that blurs the facts. Perspective is important because it means to have a full view of something or as defined by dictionary.com, fifth definition of the word; “The state of one’s ideas, the facts known to one.” Think about how we can encounter feelings and see things from a blurred position. So when going through the process of coming out or through discouragement don’t lose your full view about what is really going on. You may feel like you have no one to talk to but the truth is maybe all you have to do is pick up the phone and dial some digits. Do not let your mind run away from you; creating mental pictures that aren’t real. At all cost hold on to your perspective: “The facts known to one”. By doing so, you will save yourself a lot of time and minimize internal and external conflicts. Keep your head in the game!
Rest Is a very important component in aiding us to defeating discouragement in our lives. Life is always demanding our time and energy and if we make the mistake of always giving and working and never taking the time to rest, well it can prove to be physically and emotionally fatal. A solid 8 hours of sleep is recommended by the majority of professionals.
Allow me to list some benefits of sleep: Sleep helps the body make repairs Sleep can reduce your risk of depression Naps can improve memory, cognitive function and mood. Sleep can make you more alert. Sleep reduces inflammation. Sleep reduces stress. Sleep keeps your heart healthy. Take some time, get some rest and feel the immediate benefits it brings.
Recreation Is another important component to overcoming depression. So many of us take no time at all for ourselves when it comes to some good old recreation, fun, having a good time. Some of us are so busy trying to help everybody else have some recreation that we take no time for our own needs. It is imperative to get out of the house, take a walk, play some type of sport and get those juices flowing! The Mayo clinic has listed 7 benefits to exercise: Exercise improves your mood. Exercise combats chronic diseases. Exercise helps you manage your weight. Exercise boosts your energy levels Exercise promotes better sleep. Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life Exercise can be fun! I can tell you for sure, if it wasn’t for physical recreation I think I would have blown a gasket a long time ago.
Refueling Is crucial in overcoming discouragements. When I speak of refueling I would like to use a simple analogy of a cup that is full and always pouring out to others; eventually the cup runs dry and you have nothing to give to anyone, even yourself. Some of the ways that I have refueled are as follows: Meditation. Music that soothes and heals the soul. Finding a quite place. Reading a book that encourages or inspires me. Using the power of imagination to see a brighter day. Take the time today to implement these proven techniques along with whatever works for you. Remember the point is we all must refuel, not only for our own sakes but for the sakes of those we love. ENJOY LIFE
Around the World in 8 Tube Stops By Sohaib Siddique
The Underground is an iconic part of the capital’s infrastructure. London is a big city and the heart of its greatness comes from its cultural dynamism. The tube, of course, has helped us get to such a point. From the Tower of London to world-famous galleries, museums, and music venues, London has proved worthy of being a cultural success. The heart of cultural momentum comes from the diversity seen through Londoner’s everyday life. Ease of transportation has made it possible for people from different backgrounds to share ideas and knowledge with each other. To celebrate the Tube’s 150th year anniversary, we bring you a write-up about how you can explore London’s cultural density by travelling in the underground. Here are 8 tube stops you can get off at and feel like you’re in another world.
Whitechapel Line: Hammersmith & City | District Community: South Asian Popular for: Crowds of people; East London Mosque; street markets Restaurant: Spicy dishes to test your taste buds—Tayyabs. They have the finest traditional Punjabi cuisine you can find in the capital
Edgware Road
Line: Circle | District | Hammersm Community: Arab Popular for: Great Shisha bars Restaurant: This one’s a no-brainer most authentic Lebanese cuisine av You can’t go wrong ordering the fa layers of chickpeas in crushed garli high-quality lamb served with toas
Leicester Square Line: Northern Line | Piccadilly Line Community: Chinese Popular for: Being culturally diverse; London’s gay hangout; nightlife Restaurant: A personal favourite here is the Crispy Duck Chinese restaurant. The food quality is excellent to say the least. The crispy duck and spare ribs with chili are the best!
Hammersmith
Line: Piccadilly | District Community: Polish Popular for: Rock concerts at the Apollo Restaurant: The Knaypa is a popular one in H smith that has end up becoming a daily proc the Polish locals. It simply translates into the in English. Start with the homemade dumpli are stuffed with mushrooms and sauerkraut. you can’t go to a Polish restaurant and not ha
TRU. TRAVEL
Notting Hill Gate Line: Circle | District | Central Community: Spanish Popular for: Spanish secondary school; Garcia Spanish Supermarket Restaurant: Portobello Road is home to London’s biggest Spanish communities, including many innovative Spanish restaurants. Galicia is my pick here, hidden away at a discrete end of Portobello Road. My personal favourite is the tomato Galician chicken stew. That with the sherry sauce veal makes it a complete Spanish delight. The tarta santiago and puddings that are on display are a tempting dessert
Brixton Line: Victoria Community: Jamaican Popular for: O2 Academy; cultural music; nightlife Restaurant: Go right to Fish, Wings & Tings that serve generous yet humble portions of authentic Caribbean food. The weather may not be the same, but the food certainly is. Their Jerk Chicken marinated in tamarind is to die for
Manor House
mith & City
r—Maroush has the finest, vailable in the capital. attet hummus with yogurt; ic, yogurt, mixed in with sted bread
Hammerceeding for e restaurant ings which Of course, ave pierogi!
Liverpool Street
Visitors who plan on fitting 8 countries in one tube trip can check out London hotels by HotelClub who have great offers on at the moment. If you’re new to the capital, this blogpost will help you get started with the London Underground. Happy 150th birthday!
Line: Piccadilly Community: Turkish Popular for: cheap ocakbasi; 24-hour unlicensed hang-outs Restaurant: Beyti is an excellent choice if you’re at Manor House. They specialise in northern Anatolian cuisine, serving fresh dishes including homebaked bread. Fried whitebait with hummus, grilled sea bream or turkish kebabs and you’re set
Line: Central | Circle | Hammersmith & City | Metropolitan Sohaib Siddique , is a Freelance ‘Travel’ Writer based in London Community: Vietnamese Contact: sohaibmsiddique@gmail.com Popular for: cheap nightlife, bars, and clubs Restaurant: Kingsland Road crosses with Old Street and has been dubbed the Pho Mile. Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish of special beef noodle soup. There are back-to-back Vietnamese restaurants on both sides of the crossroad, so have your own pick!
Get Motivaed! New Year, New Me! Still feeling the excitement or has it all worn off and you’re back to business as usual? Chances are…you started off strong but allowed distractions and habits slowly deliver you back to square one. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here are a few strategies I use to stay with a “Let’s Go” attitude year round! Always be clutter free. Clutter Kills Confidence and will stop you from wanting to go forward. Always be clear on your WHY. Your reason why must be bigger than you. (purpose is never about you but about who you can help) Always focus on a few goals at a time. No more than 1-2 for 30 days. When you are trying to do too much, you end up doing very little at all. And you’re more likely to quit. Always take action. An idle mind is the devils playground. You need to be working the plan so your results keep you motivated. Always be consistent. Gaps in action create gaps of success. You want to be “at it” as often as you can. Always be held accountable. You can lose momentum when you’re not being held accountable. Use a habit tracker (download here) or have a person to check in on you. Always compare yourself to yourself. Don’t waste time worrying about what others have. You don’t know their journey and what they had to do to get there. Compare yourself to the last time you were at 100% or somewhere close. Always celebrate small wins. Don’t wait until the grand finale of reaching your goals to celebrate. Stay motivated with small rewards…but don’t go overboard or broke! Always give 100%. Half heart, half focus, or half efforts probably won’t even get you half results. Always give back! One thing that keeps me moti-
Angel L. Richards Author, Teacher, Life Coach, Helping Others Transform, LLC 813-444-3414 www.helpingotherstransform.com
vated is my ability to give back. Be it monetary, love, support, or inspiration…I’m a giver. So are you motivated to get back in the game and work towards those loft goals??? Pick a few strategies that may help you and get started today! No, not tomorrow…today! For more free tips motivational tips, visit www.angelrichards.com
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Pt. 2: Tru Magazine Picks up the conversation with Lance from Issue #10
Tru with Produce Alexa Industry Bee
Tru: When did problems between you and Jam begin? Lance: The first sign of Jam having issues with me I’d say was around 1991, about two years after I signed with Flyte Tyme. Why? May have just been the old crabs in a barrel theory. Why? Is still a mystery...but the whole thing ended up being a tumultuous ride for me. I had to always brace myself around him because I never knew when a MF bomb would be thrown at me. Shit’s funny now; it wasn’t so funny at the time. When you’re counting on your hero to help catapult you into following his footsteps; but you sense that he really doesn’t like you, it’s not a good feeling; and more than likely, he’s going to thwart that happening. In hindsight it was probably due to my having that Berry Gordy/LA Reid type of spirit. Wanting to one day have my own company; label, with my own artists. This is something that was never brought up in conversations initially with my mentors, but it was always the ultimate goal. I don’t think he felt threatened by me, although there are those that suggest that may have been a possibility. It could have been that Jam saw that, “Mogul Spirit” in me and didn’t like it. Lydia may not remember this; but back when she was working at Flyte Tyme, she mentioned to Jam that I was going to Atlanta for the Jack The Rapper convention in the summer of ‘91...which was a trip I was planning to take on my own and when he got word of it, I think he may have thought I was being insubordinate. He was pissed and told me I had no business going to Atlanta. He probably felt I had no business going unless Flyte Tyme gave me permission to go; and I ain’t never been no permission nigga. Tru: Were there any attempts to quell the problems? Lance: I always attempted resolution to situations. Sometimes it’s out of your control though. Once someone that runs the company you work for, decides that he wants to be your nemesis there’s really nothing left to do, but stay out of his way and wait for the inevitable. Tru: What is the primary message you hope readers of your book take away? Lance: I hope they take away from it that I’m a man first. Not perfect in any sense of the word; but I am a man that believes in himself as well as the Creator that created him. Knowing your own power, can be a dangerous tool without having wisdom and direction as to which way to use it. In my book, I used the power of the tongue when I turned to the dark side, using it to spit game, a master womanizer and did terrible things that I’m not proud of. I always believed what the Word says in the Bible about the tongue and its power. Our words will bring forth manifestation. Positive and Negative. I’ve used that power of the tongue to speak life into my own desires to succeed as well, for the positive. To claim with my mouth that I would work with certain people in the music industry and for it to have come to fruition is just more proof that it works! As well, I’d hope for people not to make the very first mistake I made and that was not to seek God first thoroughly before putting that power to work for you. I’m hoping that they learn from my mistakes and not to repeat them in their lives. I want them to realize that in the midst of my best; and my mess, that I’m a praying man, and that my praying brought God to cause miracles to take place in my life. With odds not in my favor I did abundantly well with Gods favor! They can too. Tru: Are there regrets on your part in the way things with Flyte Tyme, Jam, Lewis and some of the others were handled? Lance: Not sure if I thoroughly understand this question. It was doomed from the start. That’s due to how you are raised though in my case, my father raised me to be a man! Not a pucker boy. You have two choices in life.
u. Talk er/Author Lance ander on; ef &tell all books By Stacy Brown
You either take your first step with your left foot, or right foot. You can either take an elevator up; or down. For things to have gone differently with my situation at Flyte Tyme, I would have had to instead of being a man and walking away; would have had to become a pucker boy…begging to stay; while also losing my integrity. I would not have attempted to be treated like a human being that gets paid fairly for doing quality professional work, like a free man is treated. While expecting the company to care that you are paid so your family eats. That is the only Option One! Option Two? To be treated like a slave. The only other option offered to me…Hang around the plantation, don’t get too far out of range from the big house, do a few odd jobs here and there, for the lowest possible pay and be a good nicca! At the end of the day though, no regrets for the experience and what I learned from two maestros of music. Creatively they were the best in the business hands down. Thankful for the opportunity while it lasted. I learned a lot. Tru: What role, if any, did Prince play in any of the beefs? Was he ever sought out by any of you to help? Lance: Prince played no role in any of my industry beefs. I wished I could have had a discussion with Prince regarding some of the disturbances back then though. I’m sure he could have given me some great perspectives. My chats with Prince were always light. Not heavy though. Probably better that way, I didn’t need to bother him with my issues. Tru: If you could change anything about your experience in music, what would that be? Lance: Off the top of my head? Hmm....I would have paid more attention to the audience while on stage. Signed more autographs. Taken more pictures with fans, of the fans and behind the scenes. Walked slower off and onto stage to take in the moment of achieving my dream. Took a picture with Rick James, and Isaac Hayes when I had a chance to. Stayed awake during limo rides to radio stations in the wee hours of the morning. Talked more during interviews. Shook Don Cornelius’ hand one more time. Hugged Phyllis Hyman longer. Added a tam-
bourine when I was programming the track for “Scream” Been more of a shrewd businessman, instead of a nice one regarding my dealings with so called friends. Lo-Key would have been a 3 man group, instead of 5. I would not have shared production credits with the guy I shared them with. I would have had my paperwork with NEXT in order before they were offered a contract with Arista Records. In conclusion, I would have taken more risks...Just a few off the top of my head. Tru: Do you think Minneapolis can again lay claim as music’s capitol? Lance: Unfortunately, I think that ship has sailed. I’ll be honest, when I moved away from Minneapolis in 1989; I thought Minneapolis had already seen its last days of being a music capital. I was wrong; it was still some stirring going on in the land of 10,000 lakes. During the same year I moved back because Jam & Lewis offered me a deal. I have to commend Jam & Lewis too for adding more years to a musical legacy that Minneapolis could be proud of; but here is why it died, just my opinion. The guys with the power, not only did they not pass the baton back to the younger generation, but more than that, failed at molding those young people they had access to, into creative forces! Had they open themselves up to trust, it would have allowed them to plant the new seeds, to bring a new harvest to that legacy! Jam & Lewis extended the trust with signing Mint Condition! Did so by signing me and my ex songwriting partner as producers for Flyte Tyme Productions. Mint Condition and Lo-Key; we added something to the Minnesota Music Legacy that was slightly different from the typical Minneapolis Sound using Oberheim synthesizers to play horn parts in the music. Mint brought those more soulful ballads reminiscent to Thom Bell’s work in Philadelphia and Lo-Key brought that Con Funk Shun/Cameo/Ohio Players 70’s funk to the Minnesota music game. As producers and songwriters we added to them, brought youth into their works. It was a perfect opportunity to nurture and mold us to take the baton. Instead, they just took from us. Not crediting us in some cases. Not treated too fair on the financial tip, or opportunities. Kinda sad.Mint left the label. I don’t really know what to call what happened to my ex writing partner and I other than it being a clear case of divide and conquer, impeccably crafted by the bosses. Mint was smart, strong, focused, tenacious, and knew God was in control. So they kept going and look at the result! It’s a shame that the only presence of fresh current success tied to Minneapolis is one band now…Mint Condition! It’s also a shame that they are the last band standing that’s still representing the whole country’s R&B band era! I love them cats man. A primary reason why the Minneapolis reign ran out of gas is lack of evolution. I fault the
biggest powerhouses in Minneapolis for not embracin played with it more than Jam & Lewis did.Oddly enou to Jam & Lewis to sign! The Flyte Guys signed him too that Jam & Lewis never ever released an album by a ra terparts LA & Babyface signed many rap artists, includ of being signed and could have added to the continuat These moguls did not see to it, as their responsibility f signed right in their city and to keep reaching back, m A vision driven with added determination to see them with Stax. They lost the titles! Atlanta will never lose it nope. I don’t see Minneapolis regaining that title. That it won’t happen! Mint Condition is doing an awe-insp Although, I could see the guys in Mint Condition gath
Here is the fact though. Every last one of us are branch spired us, helped us directly or indirectly; none of us w sic project during the rest of his lifetime. He has nothi The legacies of all the hometown heroes however are s Tru: Aside from the book, what does the future hold f Lance: Whatever God has planned for me. I’ve learned bigger than that of the will God has for you. Get out o
ng the genre of hip hop! It is the genre that kept labels, independent and major, relevant in the last three decades. Prince ugh, the most successful independent rap artist ever, Tech N9NE, who is from Kansas City, was an artist that I brought o…initially! Then dropped him before releasing an album that I was slated to be Executive Producer of. History shows ap artist on their labels. Not one; fact is the closest they came to having a hip hop act was Lo-Key. However, their counding one of the most successful rap duos to date, Outkast! There were some great rap artists in Minnesota. Ones worthy tion of what could have been an ever growing legacy for the city. My boy ‘Lil Buddy’ comes to mind as one of them. for us to succeed! For us to truly become, the next Jam & Lewis or what have you. For younger artists like NEXT to be making it stay young and fresh;to sign and develop the hip hop talent in the Twin Cities. That would have taken vision. m succeed. The opportunities, possibilities, hopes and desires died. It happened to Detroit with Motown, to Memphis ts title because it continues to evolve. It’s the third coast now. For entertainment it’s Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta-So t would be a miracle for it to happen in our lifetime. Can’t say what the distant future holds; but for right now at least, piring job of holding the city up very high on their shoulders; but it takes more than one band to create a Music Capital. hering and developing talent there, to start the rebuilding of a Musical Capital! I’d come back and help with that myself.
hes off of a tree called Prince ...when it comes to The Minneapolis Music Scene. Without his musical genius that inwould have seen that mountain top! Prince will always be the Minneapolis ICON, even if he never releases another muing to prove! He’s the man still, forever in my book. Minneapolis may, or may never see the title of Music Capital again! sure to inspire for generation upon generations into the future! This, I am sure of. for Lance Alexander? d the hard way to get out of God’s way when it comes to my life. The will you have for your own life, could never be of His way.... I did!!
Lo-Key without Founder Lance A..
What are your thoughts? Send us your comments, questions etc. We’ll get them to Lance and get YOU answers!
Tru. Who’s WHO?
Photography by: Studio McCutch
Amber started recording with her Uncle Mike in her early twenties, as a process of experimenting and possible growth with music and its meaning. She started recording at Pachyderm Studios New Years Day, 2009, with many hopes for the future. She intends to support all people, especially women and children to be empowered, for all people to recognize balance, acceptance and unity and to promote peace and love worldwide. Amber has worked towards this by playing benefits such as “Pride Advocates” and “MN Spokesman Recorder.” In January 2009, she started her three song EP titled, “Imperfectly Perfect” with the hit single “How I Want My Life To Be,” played by KS95 and her single “Spread Your Wings and Fly”. Early 2011, she released her latest 3 song EP titled, “Wings of Love” available at Cheapo Discs St. Paul/Minneapolis area and also released on iTunes. In the past 3 years, Amber Anne Love has made leaps and bounds to become respected, not only among her peers but also holding an increasing 2,000+ fan base on Facebook and growing while holding a steady # 7 on the ReverbNation Alternative charts for Minneapolis. Amber has played in such trendy upbeat places as Uptown’s Bar Abilene and Whiskey Junction, Honey Lounge, Jimmy’s Pub, the Fine Line Music Cafe, Turtle Bread Co., Gay Pride (Power to the People Stage) and many more. She has performed and worked with such artists as Bobby Stanton, Walter Chancellor Jr., David Becker, Tovia Bradley, Marcia Day, Lonnie Knight, Lady Tobalyas, Paul Michell and Mike Pugsley, -Billy Bob Larry Jr, Tony Jazz, and Amanda Covey of Welcome Ave., Vernon DeShazer, Chazz Smith( from Andre Cymone ) Lance Sabin (from Slave Raider) and live local radio station KFAI 90.3 Mhz and 106.7 FM (www.kfai.org) Stay tuned for her newest single to be announced!
The Look
Tru. Model
Annie Jones Under the female category this month Talent Scouts for ‘The Look’ found; Ms. Annie, Jones. aka “Jonesy”. The half -Black half- Filipino beauty is with Agency Models & Talent, located in Minneapolis. Jonesy does both print and commercial modeling work for major corporations like; Best Buy, Target, and 3M. Email; lydia@truentmagazine.com if you’d like to read more about Jonsey, Tru. has got YOU!
Photographer: Sj Hassan Photographer: Sj Hassan
‘The Look’ fan favorite; Mr. Kenneth Guidroz, aka “KP” is one Model who never disappoints. This highly sought after Model, Actor & Father is all the rage of the modeling industry. From Print ad’s in magazine publications to commercials and billboards KP gets it in all around the world!
Kenneth Guidroz
You can follow K.P. @kennethguidroz or check out his website www.kennethguidroz com
Santwoine Thronton
This months find for ‘The Look’ is Triple Threat; Mr. Santwoine Thronton, aka “Kodak”, Mr. Picture Perfect. Kodak is a 21 year old songwriter, singer/ rapper/entertainer and model out of Minneapolis who runs with the crew “OBF” (One Big Family) Need we say more? Write us at; lydia@truentmagazine.com if you’d like to read more about him.
Minnesotas First Family of Music, The Peterson Family, has been performing locally, nationally, and internationally for many years. The family consists of Matriarch, Jeanne Arland Peterson, her five children Linda, Billy, Ricky, Patty and Paul as well as members of the third generation including Jason and Isaac.
JEANNE ARLAND PETERSON, jazz pianist extraordinaire, is a living legend. She has won numerous awards, including the Arts Midwest Jazz Masters’ award in 1998. Jeanne’s husband, Willie, was also a fine pianist and organist but passed away in 1969 from cancer. He was the Minnesota Twins’ organist at the time. Jeanne then took over as the Twins’ organist for three years. She has watched her children continue in their parents’ footsteps, and their bios follow. Jeanne has recently been the featured pianist on Marion McPartland’s studio for national recording artists and CDs to her credit, the most recent, an in Piano Jazz show on Public Radio. She has four CDs to her credit. and recorded with such musical lumina er, Donny Osmond and Ben Sidran. Sh LINDA PETERSON is a talented pianist, vocalist and songwriter, known internationally for her original jazz composition entitled, “Too Late To Leave country in clubs and concerts as well as ing engagements. Early” recorded in Copenhagen, Denmark. Linda has two additional CDs to her credit, “Live at Monmartre” and “Jazz After Hours” and performs with her group for jazz festivals, concerts and in clubs in America and abroad.
BILLY PETERSON is one of the premier bass players in the world, as well as being a successful producer and arranger, having worked with Ben Sidran, Eddie Harris, Leo Kottke, Bob Dylan and Steve Miller, to name a few. Billy has been the bassist for the Steve Miller band for 15 years and they are currently touring. He is also the musical director for a cooking show which is produced in the south of France, soon to be seen in the US.
PAUL PETERSON was discovered at ag and was featured in his award winning as a studio musician for Johnny Lang, K Abdul, to name a few, and is currently o his hown band “fDeluxe.” He is a multiguitar and drums.
JASON PETERSON DE LAIRE is the fi to join the professional ranks. He is a gi calist and has worked with the likes of J Donny Osmond, Richard Marx and Ale comfortable performing a classic jazz st rently on tour with Michael Bolton
RICKY PETERSON is one of the most sought after studio and session keyboard players and producers in America. While continuing as the musical director for saxophonist, David Sanborn, Ricky has a solo career as a vocalist/ keyboardist, with four CDs to his credit. He coproduced “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” for Prince and continues to produce for many other artists. ISAAC PETERSON JOHNSON is the s Ricky is currently on tour with John Mayer tion of Petersons to join the family band is now the family’s official drummer. He PATTY PETERSON is a dynamic vocalist with seven Minnesota Music is, indeed, an asset to the band. At the m awards to her credit. She is an award winning jazz vocalist both live and in popular group called the “Ken Valdez”
d commercials. Patty has three solo nspirational CD. She has performed aries as David Sanborn, Steve Millhe continues to perform across the s appearing for motivational speak-
ge 17 by the legendary artist, Prince, film Purple Rain. Paul is in demand Kenny Loggins, Anita Baker, Paula on the road with Oleta Adams and -instrumentalist, playing bass, piano,
first performer of the “grandchildren” ifted pianist/writer/saxophonist/voJimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Prince, exander O’Neal. Jason is equally tandard or an R & B song. He is cur-
second member of the third generad. He is a wonderful drummer and e plays all styles with great flair and moment, he is touring with a very band.
Patty Peterson By Danielle Svobodny
Back and Stronger Than Ever! March in Minneapolis comes in like a lion and refuses to back down. Like any force to be reckoned with, it finds the will to survive. Patty Peterson, who hails from the musically talented Peterson family, is a survivor and who came and has always remained relevant on the International musicscene. Nearly a decade ago, Patty started a jazz album with Mint Condition’s Stokley Williams and Sheila E. Within a year of commencing the compilation, Patty was diagnosed with an aortic dissection (The disease which fatality killed John Ritter). While the disease could have gotten the best of her, she decided to fight. A survivor in every aspect, to this day she’s living with a mechanical heart valve where Patty claims that she “can really push that thing.”
Since the onset and battle with her fatal illness, Pat-
ty has joined forces with The American Heart Association and Mypurpleheart. org. Along with MyPurpleHeart founder and one time Prince drummer; Bobby Z, they have brought heart health awareness to the stage! Most recently, the duo brought a packed house of over 1,500 fans to Minneapolis’s renowned First Avenue nightclub. Patty’s known for delivering a devastating rendition of “The Greatest Love of All” . Where in 1985 she won the Minnesota Music Award along side long ally Prince Roger Nelson. As if this alone isn’t enough to wash your heart out, Patty instructs that the remedy of heart ache is ultimately “loving yourself and taking care of yourself so you can do what you want in life.” Celebration Records has backed the long-anticipated album release of “ The Very Thought of You”, While commuting between L.A. and Minneapolis, vocal coaching, and headlining at select venues with select musicians,Patty takes care of her children and aged, “yet brilliant” mother. Recently the American Heart Association presented the IMPACT award to Patty for her dedication to Go Red For Women. This legendary vocal artist doesn’t miss a beat! Patty says it the best when she declares that “every minute is precious”. Patty will be performing at Bunkers Bar on April 27th with NPG’s (New Power Generation) Tommy Barbarella (on keys), Eric Leeds (sax), The Time’s Paul Peterson (bass), drummer Bobby Vandell, and Billy Franze. For more of Patty tune into Jazz station KBEM’s “Playroom” on Sundays from 4-6pm.
www.pattypeterson.com
Keith V. Murphy Author, Motivational speaker and Relationship Counselor Contact: http:// www.keithvmurphy.com or itskvm@facebook.com
KICKIN IT WITH KEITH MURPHY The Relationship Doctor
GOING A DIFFERENT ROUTE YALL, SO SIT DOWN AND STRAP IN (yo seat belts smh) This is a model of how your profile should read on them there Social Dating outfits you subscribe to. Yeah, I’m talkin boutchu! ME: If you’re in search of FLEETING QUICK CONNECTIONS YOU’LL BE BEST SERVED ELSEWHERE. I’m serious in my intentions about finding someone and will not compromise fundamental values. Standards versus Expectations. It’s my opinion that while good things can be made to happen quickly, great things usually take time. If given the chance you’ll be pleased with what you get and find that life is so worth while together, where we will
find such comfort and joy in each other and I remain with N0 privileges. I have to admit I’m past due. My perception of a successful relationship is one based on friendship, on a foundation of trust. This allows us the latitude to go from stepping stones to building blocks. Speaking of stones, the Cornerstone of this relationship will be Christ Jesus, the most important in life. Both (conceptual thinkers) working for the same goal, TOTALLY GROUNDED IN REALITY. One person alone cannot carry the relationship. Like on a see-saw, it takes 2 to be truly balanced. A relationship must be cared for in order to grow. Growth comes from being challenged and making adjustments and changes to benefit the relationship. One of life’s greatest accomplishments is to
be successful in a meaningful relationship; it takes sensitivity, patience, thoughtfulness, commitment and dedication as an additional corner stone. THEM: You lived in a place where it was important to be polite and respectful. Your well developed social skills SURPASS THE USE OF FILTHY LANGUAGE. You don’t ask probing questions. You know there are far more efficient ways to learn about someone. It takes time to know somebody. You’re not one to draw conclusions, because your strong analytical skills keep you from falling into misunderstandings. You’d rather be seen mounted on a magnificent white stallion than on that Harley Davidson bike. You’re not planning on getting
or adding a tattoo or piercing your body to enhance your looks. You’re free from angst. You’re not having a mid-life crisis suffering from playboy model syndrome. You’re not looking for the last love of your life, after having had one too many (with men your son’s age) because you didn’t believe when people said that you looked 10 yrs younger; the pictures you’ve posted are a fair presentation of how you look today. You’re not looking for someone to spoil and pamper because at this stage in your life a materialistic man is not what you need. You’re socially outgoing who may dine with kings but one who doesn’t lose the common touch. YOU EAT TO LIVE. We are metabolically and aesthetically compatible. We’re interested in looking our best. ME: I am a personality with the driving core motivation of FUN. This does not mean that I am constantly looking for a party (although I usually do know where to find one!). I am instinctively happy and gravitate to people and situations that provide carefree adventure and playful interactions. Even under the most serious of circumstances or daunting tasks, I will seek an element of personal fulfillment and spontaneous enjoyment in the experience. Spontaneous play and genuine “in the moment” FUN are not merely important to me - they are as essential to my very being a eating.I am inviting and embrace life as a party that I am hosting. I love playful interaction and can be extremely sociable. I am highly per-
hurt by sometimes hiding my insecurities. I guard them only loosely, however, and am willing to reveal them. If I know that my partner will be gentle with me. I look for somebody who makes me feel Now that I know how comfortable in this others see me as a poarena, because the tential partner, I should emotional connection also know that there and rapport that is are certain things that I subconsciously need from created when I open my relationships in order up is not something to feel fulfilled and happy. you want to miss out on. These are my very own little hot buttons. When I wake up every I find a partner who can push them for me, I may morning happy. I want happiness. I ent tense” and choose peo- just fall head over heels. I pride myself on my peo- don’t like to dwell on ple to be around whom, ple skills, and am terribly unpleasant things, like me, enjoy a curious, or spend time with embarrassed by social adventurous nature. people who pull me faux pas. The way that my I am not a boring person. partner both perceives me down. I don’t often In fact, I am often the life socially and enhances my dwell on problems; of the party wherever I I look for solution appearance socially is a go and whatever I do. I big deal to me, so finding or resolution. I must always have something to have a partner who someone with whom I talk about, and I am concan support my stantly getting myself into feel comfortable in the lighthearted nature social environment, is unbelievably funny situabut who helps me important. tions, or trouble. Potential confront the negative partners love this about aspects of my life in Because I do have a sense me because they know that a positive, upbeat of flair and flash, I don’t there will never be a dull way. ~ No summary moment and that they will want it to go unnoticed. here. YOU FIGURE My partner’s opinion is never have to worry about IT OUT! I DONE especially important to a lack of entertainment. TOL YA, I AM NOT me, and I want them to One of the greatest gifts GONNA DO ALL know what I am doing. that I have to offer is that I have an amazing heart. I The worst possible thing YOUR WERK FOR YA! ~ KICKIN IT tend to reserve it for those for me would be to get WITH KEITH! by whom I feel adored, but involved with a woman who ignores me. I would I give it so freely when I find that special someone. be devastated. Not only do I have a great I have a tender heart and so I protect it from being heart, but I am able to
suasive and sometimes seek instant gratification. I need to be adored and praised, especially by my partner. While I am carefree, I am quite sensitive and highly alert to others’ agendas to control me. I am equally sensitive to the pain or discomfort of others and will sacrifice my comfort to insure theirs, sometimes. I carry within myself the gift of a good heart, and am happy to share it with my significant other. I need to look good socially, and friendships command a high priority in my life. I am happy, articulate, engaging of others and crave adventure. Easily distracted, I can never sit still for too long. I embrace each day in the “pres-
create romantic moments and memories. I am easy to fall in love with, just as I love easily and openly. My partner will know that I would do anything for them, which is very endearing.
Tru Image Group Puttin the REAL in REALITY
THIS MONTH’S TRU. MOVIE Gerard Butler is back to kick butt in “Olympus Has Fallen,” opening nationwide this weekend. The movie centers around his capable secret service agent, Mike Banning, who falls into disgrace after a car accident involving President Asher (Aaron Eckhart) kills the First Lady. Banning is working a desk job when North Korean rogue terrorists implement a highly-coordinated, well-planned attack on the White House and take the president hostage. The only man who can get in and get Asher out safely is Banning. With guidance from his boss (Angela Bassett) and speaker of the house Alan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman), he must Cont’ on Pg 57
Y
TRU magazine rapped with Young Marqus about being a young sensation, man in the making, and a 1500 or Nothin’ protégé. 2013 so far has been launched on fertile ground. Black Entertainment Television (BET) March 14th, debut on the very first week of “1st Young Stars Week” on BET’S Young Marqus 106th & Park, featured a Young breath of fresh air; Young Marqus. Influenced by Jay Z, Tupac Shakur, and Biggie Smalls, we can only anticipate that Young Marqus will execute a triple threat of atrocious autonomy! Young Marqus, fastidious and humBy: Danielle Svobodny bly fierce, proudly shares the limelight with his kin- teen sensation Jacob Latimore where Marqus himself has proclaimed “magic” when they collab. With the first hit, “Send me Picture”, they’re has been so much mail.... the inbox don’t quit. As always, Young Marqus strives to heights and top spots where he knows the unordinary prevails. Influenced by his mom and his spirituality, Young Marqus confessed that his perseverance on the music scene is shared prevailing motivation of ambition and focus. Even as a youngster, I felt he could even teach me a thing or two. It should come as no surprise then, that Young Marqus’s next album is being engineered by Grammy-winning 1500 or Nothin’. Set to be released this spring, we can anticipate that this young superstar will continue to bang out hits!
M
Phenom
As if Young Marqus, the ‘Future of Hip Hop,’ and RnB wunderkind, Jacob Latimore, hadn’t already caught the industries attention with their smash single “Send Me A Picture,” the two announced on March 15th,that they’re ready to strike the match for a second time. Fresh from their in studio performance of “Send Me a Picture” on BET’s 106 & Park, the artistic duo gave fans some more kindling to add to the already burning fire; they’ve released the title and date of their next venture: “Put That On My Heart Beat,” their second single together, will drop this April. The track was produced by Grammy Award winning production team 1500 or Nothin’ and will be released on Young Marqus’ debut album “Phenom,” which hits stores this fall. The single will definitely signify the next level of musical ingenuity for the H-Town Sponsor. Where “Send Me a Picture” was a force in laying down a foundation to hype his younger fans, “Put That On My Heart Beat,” is poised to ear slay everyone. Young Marqus is multi-hyphenated artist who’s poised to go to the top of the entertainment industry. With his lethal penmanship and an out of this world lyrical delivery, he is worth every syllable of the crown given to him by Source Magazine when he was dubbed “The Future of Hip Hop.”
Tru. hung our with YM during a short break in his busy schedule a couple of weeks ago and of course he “kept it TRU”!
Jacob Latimore and Young Marqus The dynamic duo does it again!
TRU: What are you working on now? YM: Working on a collaboration with Jacob Latimore it’s a track called “Put that on my Heartbeat” TRU: What is like working with Jacob Latimore? YM: Man, it’s like magic! TRU: What can we expect from your next album? YM: Good music! TRU: During your interview on 106th and Park, you mentioned that your very first words as a baby were “Bow Wow”, is that true? YM: Yes TRU: You’re working with a serious production team! What is it like working with 1500 or Nothin? YM: We have chemistry! I never heard a beat I didn’t like! TRU: What inspires you, Young Marqus to follow your dreams? YM: My mom and God are my biggest motivators TRU: What advice would you give to aspiring young artists out here? YM: Stay focused and surround yourself with positive people. TRU: What is your favorite subject in school? YM: Language Arts This multi-hyphenated artist is clearly poised to go to the top of the entertainment industry. With his lethal penmanship and an out of this world lyrical delivery, he is worth every syllable of the crown given to him by Source Magazine when he was dubbed “The Future of Hip Hop.” He is a young man on a serious mission and by our standard Young Marqus is…the TRU.TH. Both the new single and the music video will drop in the coming weeks on major media platforms. Stay tuned Tru. Fam! For More Information, visit: www.youngmarqusmusic.com and be sure to follow him on Twitter @youngmarqus
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Alaina L. Lewis The Tru. ARTIST behind… “The Artists”
By Lydia King Alaina L. Lewis, the young and very beautiful CEO of Electric Heart Media runs a hugely successful Public Relations firm based out of Minneapolis. In fact, teenage music sensation Young Marqus is one of her many celebrity clients, and well-so is Tru. Entertainment Magazine! She doesn’t mind telling you that at the ‘heart’ of EHM is her desire to provide a way to allow; musicians, actors, athletes, non-profits, and small businesses to have access to a “one-stop-shop” that will meet all of their multimedia needs. As a writer, Alaina has worked with heavyweights like; Russell Simmons, Tyrese Gibson, Hill Harper, Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, Queen Latifah, 50 Cent, and Jesse Jackson, just to name a few. She has also worked with the American Black Film Festival, Cannes Film Festival, Twin Cities Film Festival and been on many other worldwide adventures. For years she’s been involved in one capacity or another with some of the most important film projects in the industry. Films like; “Footloose”, “Twilight”, “Last Airbender”, “Just Wright” and the list goes on and on. As a Journalist for publications like; Clutch, Insight and Yo! Raps Magazines you may very well ask yourself as I often do…is there anything that this creatively driven ‘Rockstar’ named Alaina L. Lewis cannot do? Armed with a degree in screenwriting, of others, I see Alaina L. Lewis as a writer, filmmaker, and and her minor in cinema production Ms. Lewis overall slinger of fun and silliness that lives in a fictional is now poised herself to take the film industry by world. A world that sees no boundaries when it comes to storm as well! Her highly buzzed about Indie film short, “The Avenue” (written & directed by Lewis), story lines and fantasy, which forces her to “prison break” is causing quite the stir among Hollywood insiders. her great ideas and bring them out to the world with no The preliminary teaser that she has released for “The fear of their acceptance or fear of the journey of their Avenue” gives us every indication that this creative greatness. When I see myself in the mirror from my own p.o.v., I see myself as someone who loves to express myself chameleon is ‘bout to “turn it up” out here! through art, and who does whatever I have to do to get it Here’s an even closer look at the amazing artist, out. Including, living out loud with my creativity and far savvy business woman and all around wonderful above the fear that comes from anyone who is following a person, that is…Ms. Alaina L. Lewis dream. TM: Nice! Tell us about 46th St. Films and Electric Heart The Interview: Media. TM: So who is Alaina L. Lewis? ALL: When I look at myself from the point of view
Make no execeptions and Every distinction
Cont’ from Pg 57 ALL: 46th Street Films is a new adventure that I am on with my partner in creative crime, Faith Udeh. The name derives from the fact that every time we meet to lay down our path to creativity and greatness in our next adventure, we seem to find ourselves pounding it out at a quaint little coffee shop on the 4600 block of Nicollet avenue in South Minneapolis. The flip side of this is of course, that I grew up on the 4600 block of Portland Avenue, so the film name has a double meaning for me, seeing that it’s the ‘book-end’ to where my dreams of being a filmmaker began; and is now the other side of my rainbow since I am well on the path to following them. Electric Heart Media, LLC is my baby. It’s a creative business I started a few years ago to assist other ‘creatives’, artists, athletes and organizations with the multimedia help they may need in order to get their assets out to the world. Whether through having an awesome website, or needing a creative video reel, or possibly a television/ internet commercial, or PR/Branding services, I’m here to help people establish their brand, amplify their voice, and get the word out. TM: That’s crazy! We grew up in the same hood! How do you manage running a film company AND a successful PR Firm as well? ALL: Some days I ask myself this question too [LAUGHS]. I guess my answer to this is simple; I’ve created business that allows me to do what I love, so every day it doesn’t feel so much like work. It feels more so like waking up to fairy tale. It never gets old when you love what you do. TM: Which job do you like the most and why?
ALL: Always from the bottom of my heart, no matter what I do in life, or what adventure I go on, I will always be a writer. Writing is how I purge all the pressure, the heartache, the joy, the fear-- it’s my everything. I’ve been a journalist professionally for 5 years working for Clutch Magazine, Insight News, Yo! Raps, and my affiliation with this awesome magazine called Tru. Entertainment Magazine. I’m also publishing a novel this year- a long overdue adventure that I wrote years ago, but never finished. For some reason I held on to never completing the last 20 pages. Overcoming my fear of finishing it came when I realized that I could always start a new book. It’s called “Letter’s to the Editors of My Heart.” I’ve also just finished directing a short film I wrote this year called “The Avenue.” It’s about the arduous journey a young man named “Dru” must take in order to transition from the innocence of being his mother’s son, to now being forced to be her drug pusher. It’s a dramatic piece that tells the flip side of the story we always hear about the “kid next door.” Sometimes the kid next door isn’t living a life that is as innocent and safe.” TM: What should we look forward to in 2013 from you? ALL: This year I want people to be on the lookout for more from ALAINA L. LEWIS. I’ve spent YEARS being a driving force behind the dreams of others and often am guilty of shrinking when it came to my own desires-- putting my projects off because there was never enough time. Finally I got a team in my life who have helped me realize that there will never be enough time, and that the real time is now! It’s about learning how to balance. So this year you can keep your eyes peeled for me to present my short film “The Avenue” to the world. My second film “The Mediocre Salad” goes into production next month, and I will have a feature film in production this fall. I will also be publishing my first novel at the end of this year. I’m also looking forward to working with more amazing clients this year over at Electric Heart Media, LLC. So please keep both ‘46th Street Films’, and Electric Heart Media, LLC in your view. We’re going to try and bring our audience some amazing things this 2013 and beyond. For more info on Electric Heart Media and to keep up with Alaina go to; http://electricheartmedia.com Or follow her on Twitter @AlainaLLewis
Olympus Has Fallen get down to the bunker before the terrorist leader, Kang (Rick Yune) unleashes total annihilation. Does this action thriller, directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), induce enough shock and awe? Here are the 3 things you should know about “Olympus Has Fallen”: 1. The attack on the White House is jaw-dropping . Once the blitz begins, you won’t be able to look away. Sure, we’ve seen monuments destroyed before, but this is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Watching the seemingly impenetrable symbol of power shot up and bombed is terrifying and disturbing. 2. It’s also extremely violent as wave after wave of secret service agents emerge to protect the White House. The terrorists just pull out more guns and ammo, the body count is enormous. This is an incredibly bloody brutal takeover that definitely earns the R rating. 3. Gerard Butler is the man “Mr. 300,” as Angela Bassett calls him, is at the top of his game here. Due to the necessity of taking out the bad guys as stealthily as possible (at one point, the villain thinks he’s dead), Butler engages in a lot of hand-to-hand combat and shows off a fearsome fighting form.
Keith King, Writer, Fashion Show Coordinator Contact; Keith@truentmagazine.com
Life Outloud with Keith King Hello Keith: My BF and I have been together for about 8 months now and I love him so much. When we met I knew he was the one for me. You see I am a little on the “fem” side but this is what made me more attractive to him and he didn’t care. But now I’ve been thinking about becoming more of a woman, IE: dressing full-time and even thoughts of fully doing the operation. My BF is very much the masculine man and I am afraid of what he will do or say if I tell him I want to become a female full time. I am afraid he will leave me. What should I do? Signed “SunnyBrightFem”
“Ask Keith”
Hello SunnyBrightFem: Well Sunny, you have to be comfortable in your own skin. If you plan on being a full women and have the desire to live your life out as a women first and foremost you must tell your BF your intentions. Be honest with him. You said you were kind of “fem” when you met him so that may not bother him. But you don’t want to assume that. Being fem and dressing the part can be two different things to some people. Tell him and let it be his choice whether or not he would like to continue a relationship with you having a full female persona. And if by chance he cannot continue on with it then you will find someone that will be comfortable with you as you are and love you just the same. Hello Keith: My brother and I are very close. We are 2 years apart in age. We have always been the best of friends growing up and doing things together. Growing up, our father was a very strict person both verbally and physically if you know what I mean. My dad died about 4 years ago and shortly after that my big brother joined the armed forces. He took my dad’s death kind of hard. Since joining the military I’ve noticed a change in him. He has become very discipline; angry and stern. Needless to say, we’re not as close as we once were. I miss him. On top of all this, I have kept a secret from him. I am gay but my brother doesn’t know this. I am not sure now how he will take the news if I told him about me. He became the man of the house when my father died and I am afraid to disappoint him. What should I do? Signed, “Charles” Hello Charles: Death is always a difficult part of life to deal with. It changes our lives and sometimes who we are. Sometimes for the good and sometimes for the worst. Your brother seems to be taking your father’s death a little rough. To me it sounds like he is trying now to live up to who your father was and make him proud. Then on the other hand he is hurting inside and by joining the armed force it may just be his way of dealing with the death of your father. We all deal differently. But, if you and your brother were close in the past then you can also attempt to re-gain that closeness in the present. Talk to him, comfort him, he is hurting and he needs you to be there. Then once that is established you can approach him with the news of your lifestyle. I am sure that once that bond is glued together between you two, coming out to him won’t be as threatening as you think it will be. Right now, he is still grieving and needs you. But I am pretty sure your brother will love you all the same no matter what your life-style is, as long you love him equally and you both try to be there for each other. Brotherly love can overcome any obstacle. Keep the faith!
SMOOVE SECOND Q: If you like a person, you get involved, then you find out that your just not all that into them-how do you get out smoothly and without hurting their feelings? A: Ah, you’re feeling like you need to put your relationship in reverse? Well that’s unfortunate…for your partner! LOL Nah but for real- I’m sure this can be a very frustrating place to be in. Honestly, I really feel the best approach may be a conversation. Know that feelings are probably going to get hurt. But, when you think about it in most cases if you don’t like something you must speak up. If you don’t like the way someone cooks, behaves, or even has sex; you can’t fake it forever. Why not translate how you feel and first express your dislikes and give them an opportunity to make things better. If it’s a failed attempt, prepare to exit stage left. At that point you may want to figure which exit method best suits your situation. You can have the conversation and make plans to separate. Otherwise, you might want to slowly drawback physically and emotionally, and eventually become a person they don’t want to be with anymore. I feel the need to provide you with this saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” It sounds like you’re in a relationship and wanting to leave. My advice is try fixing it first, but next time slow down. Q: Where is the best place to find your lifelong mate and what should you look for? I’ll tell you where NOT to find your lifelong mate…at the CLUB!! That’s where I met all my ex-girlfriends, j/k…kinda! You know how you feel if you want to find somebody like you, then do something you like to do. Reach beyond the club- seriously. I think people go there because it’s easy to go there; dress up, listen to music, get intoxicated, and you have a high enough probability of, “if at first you don’t succeed, try, and then try again” opportunity. Reach a little further into yourself. Find peaks of your private personality and go to what would interest that part of you. Such as a bookstore, an art festival, fitness club, a comedy club, a political event, or an expo. I’m not saying a club is a set up for failure, but your chances of long-term love are decreased. You’d be better off at a lounge, bar, or happy hour instead. I feel you have better odds coming across that spark during the daytime somewhere. Nighttime encounters are usually followed by nighttime activities; and like grandma said, “Ain’t nothin’ open but legs and the hospital, and you don’t look sick to me!” Also, online dating can be a way to filter the masses and find someone with similar interest. Just be conscious of the site you choose. There are a large variety of sites that will cater to your specific lifestyle; whether you’re Christian, Muslim, Gay, Divorced, just looking for a playmate, or a Sugar Daddy, etc. Just be careful what you ask for, because you just might get it.
TRU TEEN
Christian Lee, Writer, Animal Enthusiast , College Student Contact; truentmagazine@gmail.com
“The Freedom Writers” A tale of the minorities becoming the majority to change the world. To change someone’s life is truly a great feat, to change 150 lives is a miracle. Yet daily humans defy the seemingly impossible. The true life (nonfiction) story of The Freedom Writers is one of those inspiring tales of heroism. By reading the diaries of these reformed youths you can relate to their trials and tribulations as if they are your own. I was able to reflect on my life and truly see a world of infinite possibilities. I felt inspired to make a change. After all if they could do it why couldn’t I? The Freedom Writers Diary is a tale of how one woman through the power of writing was able to connect with 150 of Long Beach’s most troubled youth. Erin Gruwell arrives at a Wilson High School where segregation and hate run rampant. In her first year of teaching she finds herself stuck teaching the rejects of the school. These students were the ones that everyone knew would be nothing special. No one believed in them except Ms.Gruwell who inspired them to rise above the poverty and segregation around them through writing in diaries. These same students who no one believed in became a collective group known as the Freedom Writers. Through their amazing writings they were able to show a nation that things needed to change. I felt like I was really able to connect to the students and understand their suffering through their diaries. Their problems, I was able to relate with, their triumphs I was able to cheer for. This book showed me that no matter what I can overcome all obstacles in my way. I felt that nothing could stop me from achieving my dreams if I worked hard enough for it. No matter how large a task nothing is beyond my grasp, no obstacle too large to topple. This book gave me something I felt I lost a long time ago…hope. The true message of the Freedom Writers to me is not just a story of students overcoming racism and adversity, but also a testament of human ingenuity. The story and its message will be something I will never forget. Tolerance, understanding, and change was the message the Freedom Writers were trying to spread.
BOOK REVIEW This was their goal to be unforgettable, to spread their message far and wide so it would not be forgotten. Looking around me I see people of all races within each other, caring about one another. Yes there is still racism in the world yet at least for now a small fraction of it has vanished. I was touched by their message and I am driven to carry on their message. I like the 150 others, I am a Freedom Writer and I will not be silent.
Christian began writing at a very young age. He’s a natural at expressing himself in words and has had a passion for reading his entire life. He loves animals and intends to attend college to study to be a Veterinarian. We should also mention that Christian is an A+ student who will be graduating with honors this year! Well done Mr. Moses, Tru. salutes YOU!
“Franky D”, Writer, Musician, Middle School Student, Minneapolis Contact; truentmagazine@gmail.com
How to handle PEER Pressure Making decisions on your own is hard enough, but when other people get involved and try to pressure you one way or another it can be even harder to think your way through things. Say for instance you and a friend are out at a park and you see someone smoking; or, maybe your friend asks you to walk to his house to take a cigarette out of his dads coat pocket and then he wants to go in the back to smoke it. If you say “no” and he repeatedly calls you a punk or not a true friend what do you do? Ask yourself who is really the “true friend”? You for not buying into the situation or doing what other kids might think is “cool” and going along with it, or the other guy? Just saying! When dealing with peer pressure, try and avoid any negative comments made and try to vocalize any ideas that you might have that are positive. Also, leave and while your leaving pray so that the person that has that thought that the thing he or she is doing is cool realizes that it’s not at all. BECAUSE remember, even when you can’t help themGOD CAN . Just my thought- Franky D
On Blast The skinny on SKINNY By: Brooklyn
From the looks of it all Karon aka “Skinny” has to be one of the most dedicated, driven, and focused young artist in the Twin Cities. As I read about Skinny I got excited, honestly I’ve never felt this way about a teen artist. How Skinny’s different from the crowd and stood out from day one, what he was interested in, and how he expressed himself. He’s more than a teen with a rap dream, acting and writing is already in his five year plan! It’s almost over whelming to discover who created the BackPack Kidz that represented the new rekindle dance movement back in 2009 “Jerkin” These Backpack Kidz definitely created a name for themselves fast, with their image bring back those one of a kind 80’s haircuts. Skinny and the group have now went their separate ways, but, rest assured, Skinny is continuing to work on his dream of becoming that different twist of art and hip-hop with his edge cutting swag and creative brand. So far Skinny has had three songs hit Minneapolis’ KMOJ Radio station list (Got a fresh cut, Spoonful ft. K.I.D and Girls in J’s), from the program rush it or flush it. Spoonful ft. K.I.D is his first official video that has just been released, girls in j’s should be coming along soon this summer. He was also recently interviewed by Insight News and Trendsetter USA. Skinny has performed as a support artist for Kirko Bangz, Diggy Simmons, OMG Girls, Lil Chucky, MGK, Marthon Music Artist T.T. He’s also made a cameo appearance in newly released video with Mn. Fats ft. Waka Flocka called “Can I Freak”
Here’s the Tru. Magazine... Exclusive
TM: How did you get your start in the music Industry? SKINNY: My mom would always take me to concerts when I was younger and I would watch the artist on stage. It was exciting to watch them perform and watch how the crowd would react to their art, It wasn’t always hip-hop shows that I was going to, my first show was a Rock show. It was wild... and crazy the name of the group was Insane Clown Posse they would spray the crowd with root beer and glitter. It was like wow. That’s was when I realize that this was the industry that I wanted to be apart of. I wanted to rap and perform like a Rock Star. TM: What are you plans over the next 5 years? SKINNY: In 5 years I’ll be 22, my plans are to accomplish a lot from now until then, do some things other than rap, do a couple movies, write a book about my journey to the
top of the industry and my journey while being at the top. I want to work with some of my idols such as Kendrick Lamar,
Master P, and Kanye West. I can go on all day. TM: How do you deal with all of the female attention you get from your fans and most importantly how does your girl feel about it or are you still single? SKINNY: I don’t have a girl, but I got a little boo thang , but I am single. I love the attention from the females sometimes they do to much, specially when it comes down to touching my hair, thay ask to pat it-sometimes they mush it. Sometimes I don’t like at all, I guess that’s how it is when your hair style causes a lot of attention. But I try to keep my fans happy I don’t want to be untouchable, but at the same time I don’t like it when the ladies get too carried away. TM: What do you think about all of the controversy surrounding certain young women allowing themselves to be portrayed in rap and hip-hop videos? SKINNY: I have no thoughts on the subject because I’m not the type to disrespect women, and I feel they allow themselves to be treated that way. My music isn’t focused on women being portrayed in any disrespectful manner. TM: What celebrity would you say is your greatest inspiration and why? SKINNY: Jimmy Hendrix, because of the way he lit his guitar on fire on stage. That moment became historic . When he left the stage he left a moment of history behind, that’s the way I want to leave the stage after my shows. I think he was the the greatest performer that ever lived.
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”Just Justin”,Writer,Athlete, Musician, Jr. High School Student,Minneapolis Contact; truentmagazine@gmail.com
“How to Manage Home, School and a Social Life” By; ‘Just Justin’
School is already hard enough to balance, but when you talk about taking on home and a social life too; it goes to another level of responsibility. Let’s talk about responsibility for a second. The definition of responsibility is ‘The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something. So, basically in ‘teen terms’ this means being accountable for anything that is bestowed upon you, which in the life of a teen can be gruesome! Handling school requires a lot of dedication, commitment, and drive to pull through all that school requires of you and has to offer, i.e, homework, social drama, tests, pop quizzes and more. One thing you have to remember (and I struggle with this myself) is just to get it done! Now don’t get me wrong, I know that six hours of listening to lectures can be pretty tedious, but, just remember; you have to handle business in order to succeed. “Work hard in school then chill at home”, as my older brother would say. But there is always that moment that you are drawn to make that hilarious joke or want to try to talk to your crush in that fifth hour math class, but you have to resist the urge. As hard as that can be sometimes, you have to just think, you have all the time in the world to goof off, like in college maybe (lol)…o.k. my mom is looking at me sideways so let me re-track that statement
AFTER college! I think, this is how to manage home, school and social life. The first thing you want to do is come home and eat. At least I do! Eating gets your brain active and ready to go. Then the next smartest thing to do is to just knockout your homework (or projects) straight when you get home. I say this because when you’re at school your already in ‘ work mode’ so when you come home you might as well stay in work mode since your already there. Get what I’m saying? If you just knock that out then do whatever chores you have to do guess what… your free! Your free to call that girl in fifth hour math, your free to just sit back and watch TV for some time or whatever. And just remember one thing- I’m not a psychologist, but i try! -jj