Tru Entertainment
Magazine Company
CONTENT 8-1Love 1Mission:Help 4the Homeless 26-Chuck D and Public Enemy: A Force That Never Quits 14
DeAnna Stealth A New Brand of Hip Hop Queen
Ducati 18 “Dot Born To Run it
24 A Guy Named Joe Leavy w ww.Truentmagazine.com
Letter From The Editor LYDIA M.KING
W
e just made our third year through this journey of love known as; Tru. Entertainment Magazine. 2015 promises to bring you more excitement than ever before family. As always, we’ll keep bringing you the legends, the brightest stars on the planet and those TRU.ly talented hot new artists on the scene. We pride ourselves on shinning that well-deserved spotlight on THE BEST of THE BEST and giving you, our family, everything that is uplifting, fortifying and motivating for the spirit and soul, during our journey together. This year not only will you find out what your favorite artist from ‘back in the day’ is up to, you’ll also meet ambitious new; writers, entrepreneurs, artists and creators. Those who will fascinate you, inspire you and make you fall in love with them, just as we have. You’ll get to learn about and become part of an exciting and powerful charitable cause we’ve founded, the 1 Love / 1 Mission Movement, and, best of all, you’ll get to read what you can’t read anywhere else. This year we’ll keep shining that light. This yearwill be our best year… ever! Keepin it TRU. just for YOU! All the love, LK
1Love 1Mission:Help 4the Homeless There are over 49 million homeless persons in this country and growing. Many shelters, churches and providers run out of resources, causing people to have to live on the streets of every city- across the nation. This is why Tru. Entertainment Magazine publishers Lydia and Kevin King have founded the giveback campaign, “1 Love 1 Mission Movement”. All who donate to the movement receive a personal ‘thank you’ from your gift recipient(s) featured in the films that we produce documenting the work of the movement across the nation. That way you will be able to see first-hand, without even having to be there, those who are benefiting directly from your kindness. Unless you’d rather remain anonymous we encourage you to include a personal when you make your donation today that you would like for us to convey to those in need on
your behalf. We’ll write your note in a card and enclose it with your gift. $5.00 helps one person, soon we want to be able to increase our donation amount to $20.00 per person and hopefully we’ll even make it to $100.00 per person. That will really help someone in need in a HUGE way so that is our ultimate goal. All donors also receive honorable mention in Tru. Entertainment Magazine as a 1 Love 1 Mission Sponsor. We’re very big on promoting the businesses and private donors who help us to help the community. We thank you and really appreciate your willingness to help those less fortunate than we are. It’s a blessing that we hold near and dear to our hearts. Outreach Project Description: 1L+1M has been established in order to provide homeless persons living on the streets with a cash gift, enough to get them through another day. A personalized envelop with a special note just for them and a
five or ten dollar bill enclosed can make all the difference in someone’s life. Many have used this offering to purchase their meal for the day, some to be able to travel by bus to an employment interview, others, to share with another friend on the street who is in need. But, most of all, people are feeling loved, and that someone “TRU’ly” does care about them and their situation. They are feeling Gods love. We’ve found during our outreach efforts that many are hurting tremendously. Not expecting love or a helping hand from anyone. We, on the other hand, believe in giving them some hope, a hug, words of comfort and prayer if they like. Extending that unexpected helping hand from a strangeris the key. When we can afford it, we also bring along; hats, hand & feet
warmers, gloves, socks and food donated from local diners or fast food places. Anything, just to make their day a little brighter goes a long, long way. Our goal is to be able to go out monthly on this mission. Our first official mission, Christmas Day was very successful. The film we shot shows just how impactful a small random act of kindness can be upon someone’s life. The “1 Love 1Mission Movement” is a radical ongoing outreach project which embraces what we know is often a very controversial subject. But, giving cash to those in need as an expression of love, hope and caring for our fellow human beings, now THAT… is priceless. Many are homeless, but more importantly ‘people’just like you and I. We don’t do an application, waiting list or screening process. Funds are given out randomly to those who we identify on the streets, to be in need. Our production team,‘Tru. Media Group’, documents each outreach effort to show all of you and the entire world that this can and will work. We believe that unconditional love really can change lives and offer hope to hurting people across the
nation. Won’t you join us in this mission to be the change WE all want to see in the world? This is the most important work we have done, and will ever do, and you, can be a part of that dream that helps the nation, never fails and never ends. To donate your own gift of love please go today to; www.gofundme.com/1Love1Mission Please view this video and you’ll see for yourself, how your donation CAN and WILL make a difference! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhYNnXWPOSg
Valentines Day is the next day for the next give-back. Won’t you help us help those hurting across the nation?
PLEASE DONATE: http://www.gofundme.com/1Love1Mission
Sponsored by Tru Entertainment Magazine
DeAnna Stealth
A New Brand of Hip Hop Queen By Kasey Green and Lydia King
T
he world has a new artist making waves in Hip Hop Music. She goes by the name of, DeAnna Stealth. Formerly known as “Miss Cookie”, DeAnna is an up and coming Hip Hop artist who takes inspiration from two of her music favorites, the late “Aaliyah” and one of R & B / Hip Hop reigning princes’, Chris Brown. And just like the artists she loves and respects DeAnna works relentlessly to hone her craft to perfection, just as those who have paved the way before her. DeAnna’s talent clearly reaches well beyond that of what’s known as being a ‘triple threat’. This young lady is proving herself to be a down right force! Not only is she staking her claim in the world of Hip Hop as an amazingly talented singer and recording artist, but she’s also a; songwriter, producer, performer, motivational speaker, as well as an entrepreneur. She’s one artist who is on a mission that she feels is more than possible. It’s inevitable. DeAnna Stealth, (born DeAnna Mayo) first Photographer: Rob Relosa
caught the public’s attention by appearing on an episode of BET’s 106 & Park. She was there for a segment which highlighted the success of her organic cookie business. Also worthy of a mention is the fact that as a young teen of only thirteen at the time DeAnna launched the company by herself ! In March 2013, she again appeared on BET’s 106 & Park. This time on their “Wild Out Wednesday” episode. At no surprise to us, she won that competition hands down. She later advanced to the final rounds to compete during the Coca-Cola Championship which made it her 3rd appearance on BET in one year. In April of 2014 DeAnna traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to perform during the 2014 Epic Women’s Conference as opening act for legendary vocalist, Angie Stone. Throughout all of many endeavors as an artist DeAnna still remains very active in her community and conscious of her goal that she be sure to allow sufficient time to be able to continue on with her numerous volunteer commitments. Equally as impressive as her drive and determination are the countless awards and honors that she has received. As a philanthropist and volunteer for important causes such as; Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s Rainbow Push Coalition, DeAnna remains humble and grounded. As keynote speaker and performer at events for several non-profit organizations and church groups she has effortlessly clocked well over 2800 hours of community service putting in the hard work which fulfills her ongoing desire and dedication to giving back. One glance at DeAnna’s track record is certain proof that being a great citizen is just as important to her as giving her phenomenal gift of music and song to the world. Her team tells us that she’s currently in the studio working on her latest project with her producer, Treasure aka ‘Big Trez’. We’re anxious to hear the rest of the magic that those two will create, that’s for sure. Her already blazing hot new singles; ‘Miss Cookie’ and ‘Stealth Mode’ put us all notice that Ms. Stealth didn’t come to play. Her addicting anthem “Miss Cookie” proudly boasts that she’s; “the calm before the storm”, “look at you then look at me- with no make-up talk about real”. From where we sit “REAL” is only the beginning of the many adjectives that describe her! Photographer: Rob Relosa
One on One with
DeAnna
Q. You’re an Entrepreneur, an artist and a business woman. What drives you to work at accomplishing so much as opposed to just focusing on your artistic side? A. Wow…that’s a great question. Honestly, what drives me to work at accomplishing so much as opposed to just focusing on my artistic side, is creating a positive image the best way I know how and to help improve my community. I desire to do this not only as an “African-American” woman but as a young woman; presenting to the world that there is more to Hip Hop music than just one aspect. Creating a positive platform for my peers as well as our younger generation, drives me to let them know that there are other options or ways to express themselves. Sex, drugs, money, and chaos are not the only options. I believe that there is a culture within our community that still believes in self-respect and decency. After all, history shows that we truly are an accomplished society. Q. You have tons of awards and official kudos for your philanthropic ventures and work within the community. Again this is highly unusual for a young artist on the rise, what motivates you? A. Life in essence motivates me...the lives of our young people motivates me. It’s those moments when I turn on the news or scroll down my timeline and see another life of an unarmed black youth put to an end. When I hear that there’s a shortage of blood at Children’s National Medical Center for little babies, boys, and girls in the ethnic minority group. It seems that people in urban communities just don’t make a habit of donating blood. The youth are Hip Hop’s biggest supporters. We have to do more for our young people in the game. We have to stop selling them dreams and start giving them something that’s tangible to hold on to. We owe it to them to give them good music. Q. When you think of current trending artists like; Nikki, Iggy and Ariana what sets you aside from all the others?
DeAnna on 106 &Park
A. Every artist has a message to give to the world that they strongly believe is needed... I have a message to give to the world that I strongly believe is needed. They have their story, I have mine. That’s what sets me aside.
Q. What’s coming up for you and what would you like for your brand to have accomplished within the next 5 years?
A. Well currently I am working on my new EP which we will announce in the near future. I have temporarily placed my company on hold to devote my time and attention to being a Hip Hop Artist. My music has taken a life Q. How do you intend to ‘Make Your Mark’ in the world of Hip Hop culture? of its own. I will continue to travel and speak to groups of young people. I definitely will have some amazing material for all those following my musical journey, so they can A. I intend on making my mark by helping to understand who I am as an artist. As far as what I like for create life changing opportunities within my my brand to accomplish within the next 5 years... I would community and contributing to the culture of love to win a Grammy, an Oscar, an NAACP Image Award Hip Hop portraying young women in a more and a BET Hip Hop Award (especially since 106 & Park premium light. I also intend on relating and is where I 1st got my start when it came to my passion). I being the voice of young ladies who do not fall in the category of what today’s rappers label want to be a household name, not only known as an artist with lots of endorsement deals, but also as a businesswomwomen to be; such as Thots, Hoes, B**ches, or an, actress and model within the urban community. MakTurkey Clappers, etc. I want young women to know that they don’t have to devalue themselves ing a difference and helping creating opportunities is what to be successful nor to be influential. It’s almost I would love for my brand to represent. like it’s frown upon for us to represent the royThose of us here at Tru. Entertainment Magazine believe alty or the richness of our heritage. It’s embarrassing and it simply needs to change. Don’t get that sooner than she knows, just like the philosophy by me wrong... I don’t have a problem with having which she lives, DeAnna Stealth and her team will be a good time but there is a way to go about doing announcing to the world and to all of her fans that in her case... “Dreams Do Come True”! it and I want every young woman to know you can be a successful Hip Hop Artist, Model, Ac- Do yourself a favor! tress, Entrepreneur/Business Woman but most Go BUY the single now you’ll find her on itunes and Amazon. importantly Philanthropist and build a legacy. Visit her site for details: deannastealth.com
THANK YOU TO All DONORS & SUPPORTERS Maestro P DeAnna Stealth DeMonica Flye JC Gardner Kimberly Brown Mike DeCole Dot Ducati Hayley Drinkall London Moses Catherine “Cat” Glover Mike Holmes Keith King Naomi King Autumn King Kevin King Lydia King David Booker Brian Few Natalie G. Miss Kim Dani S. Gary Hines Freddy Reeves Joe Leavy Tarryn Wilson Ernest Thomas MiNiMe
Dot Ducati
By:Lydia King
BORN TO RUN IT
Born Craig Dyar Jr. a rapper who goes by; “Dot Ducati” takes no prisoners when it comes to him doin Him. This we’ve experience up close and personal. Dot’s an artist that strives for excellence in all that he does. Just take a listen to a couple of his bangers like; “Run” and “I have Sin” and you’ll see what we mean. All you have to do is inhale some of Dot’s work to be able to experience why he’s considered to be one of the hottest emcees running the streets of Minneapolis. A native of the city known for raining Gold and Platinum albums back in the day, Dot aims to take the music industry by storm again, in 2015! One of his many gifts being basketball is where he began to develop his many talents, as early on as grade school. Ducati set his sights on being a basketball superstar and as always, played the game well- all the way up through college; and it was then that he decided to set his sights on taking over the rap game. These days he’s poised to become ‘Mr. International’ when it comes to Rap with his aim set at becoming CEO of his own label, H.O.O.D.L.U.M. Society. His latest album entitled; “R.A.T.S. (Rap Ain’t The Same)” has become the soundtrack of the Twin Cities, and is quickly solidifying why Dot Ducati is someone you should get to know, and have got to experience, by any means necessary. He credits his grandmother as being his inspiration, a woman who made sure that he, his brothers and sister never lacked one single thing. By that example he was motivated not only to be good, but to be great! Dot graduated with honors, in spite a few collisions with trouble, and jump started his rap career at the age of fourteen under the careful guidance of his uncle, ‘King Zink’ , who became his mentor. At this point this enterprising young Rapper (now in his 20’s) has slowly but surely perfected his craft. Fans were anxious for the release of his critically acclaimed “Vanilla Sky” album released in October of 2014. And true to form, Ducati did not disappoint. The Rapper with street cred and plenty of smarts and talent to go with it makes it clear that he doesn’t want to be “… another nigga in the hood who could have been this or that. I want them to see me and see me doin’ well”! He feels like where he’s from so many have the potential to go far, but never make it out. But Dot has got another plan in mind. With joints like “Streets” and “Make ‘Em Hate Me” ruling the streets in the Twin Cities, it’s clear that his genuine and conscious flow filled with grit and truth has him poised to hit ‘em up, all around the world!
THE INTERVIEW Tru: What made you switch up from basketball to the Rap game? Dot: I was doing both, but I lost my love for sports. Some events that took place in my life caused me vto lose focus. Had my first kid, was out of town for school… it was a different atmosphere. Mentally I don’t know if I was prepared to raise a kid long distance and be okay with it. Tru: You told us that some of your influences are Notorious B.I.G. and Jay Z. How do you feel your sound sets you aside from other rappers? Dot: ‘Sqaaaad’ ‘Hov’ and ‘Big’; two of the best to ever do it! They took the music game to different heights. I catch a lot of flak for being a Biggie fan, but that’s what I grew up on. I’m pretty sure if my dad played a lot of Pac, I’d be a Pac fan, but he didn’t. Shit, I went with what I knew man... The difference from me and other rappers is all of my music is inspired by events that have actually taken place in my life. It’s all the way black and white with me, no grey areas. I take pride in being an artist, not just a rapper or an entertainer. The difference between me and them is music is a part of my everyday life, not just something I do for a few hours or a hobby. Lock me in a studio with Protools and Photoshop and I’ll give you a whole album. Tru: O.K. So honestly, do you feel like the Hip Hop scene in Minneapolis will get you there, or do you have your sights set on N.Y. or L.A. or what? Dot: Not to throw shade on the Minnesota music scene, but we just don’t have enough resources to capitalize-so it makes it difficult. I do got my eye set on another place; Not NY or LA but closer to LA. I wanna give myself and my team the best chance to be successful. And if that calls for me to relocate to meet new contacts and new resources then it is what it is. But I’ma always believe in Minnesota though. A lot of people feel like moving can be a cop-out or if you get enough to make it then you can do it from home. And I feel like that has yet to be proven. There are a lot of artists that have been close, and a lot of artists that are on a higher level than others, but my sights are international. I’m ready for the world. I feel like doing that in Minnesota is like chasing a pipe dream. Tru: What inspires you to write your songs? Dot: My songs are inspired by my everyday life; the good, the evil and the ugly. I use my past experiences as a tool for motivation,
drive and inspiration to never lose sight of the task at hand. It’s easy to get sidetracked or discouraged, but that’s more ammo for my arsenal. I take losses and throw pain parties. I feel like listeners are more accepting of an artist that they can relate too. It’s like… somebody else is out there going through what you’re going through. If I can connect with one person, I can connect with a million. My music is an extension of me, so I want the music that I create to be timeless instead of trendy. Tru: So what’s up next for the man of many talents? Dot: What’s next is being CEO of my own label, H.O.O.D.L.U.M. Society. I’ve got a clothing line in the works and my debut album Vanilla Sky. We’re goin’ international. I want to take my craft from being city wide and statewide to regional, and then national. I’m content but not satisfied. I feel like a larger platform will create more opportunities for me and my brand. The best is yet to come. I can’t tell the future so I’m unsure of what exactly will happen, but I know what I’m workin’ towards. It’ll happen, Lord willin’. Keepin it Tru, Is Dot Ducati gonna be the man who can put Minnesota hip hop on the map? It’s sure lookin that way!
For more on Dot Ducati go to these links; https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Dot-Ducati/420147238121862?sk=info&tab=page_info EPK: http://artistecard.com/DotDucati Twitter: @DotDUCATI IG : @DotDUCATI For Booking Contact: TKF Management, Saphari “SK” Wilson Direct Line: 952-212-3638 Email: SaphariAnthony@yahoo.com
A Guy Named Joe Leavy
The new album fromtalentedSinger,Songwriter and Entrepreneur
O
BY LYDIA KING
riginally a San Diego native currently lives in northern California where he’s been making quite a name for himself. For starters his critically acclaimed debut album “A Guy Named Joe Leavy” earned him title as aSoulTracks.com, Critics Choice Album Of The Year selection. It also reachedtop position on the UK Soul Charts and Joe has been climbing higher and higher, every since! This award winning project sent him on tour in England in 2014. Returning from tour Joe immediately went to work on his next album projectand decided to givehis fansa sneak peek of the new record. He dropped a smooth jazz piece entitled “Find A Way To Love”which quickly skyrocketed to the#1 position on the UK Soul Charts again! Now firmly establishedas anoteworthysinger/songwriter with mainstream credibilityand backed by an incredible production team,Joe is poised to have a hugely successful sophomore release later this year. Joe, alongside platinum record producer,Derek DOA Allen (Joe Bridges- Double Back) and Joe’s a dviser Jay King (of 80’s R & B Sensation Club Nouveau) is currently preparing for shows throughout California this spring. Including promotional trips to Japan,England and Europe this fall.
ou have got to check out Y our personal favorite, a moving performance of his song “Hurt People” which, is featured as the background soundtrack for Tru. Entertainment Magazine’s giveback campaign video; “1 Love/ 1 Mission Movement”. Check out the video here; http://youtu.be/ ZhYNnXWPOSg and don’t forget to get your copy of this incredible must have album. Joe Leavy is a MUST HAVE for every record collector and real lover of real music. Pick up his record today! You’ll find him at; www. cdbaby.com/joeleavy, www. itunes.com/joeleavy and you can also get a signed hard copy at; www.joeleavy.com
FEATURE By: Jay Snook
Chuck D and Public Enemy: A Force That Never Quits Public Enemy, the popular rap group created by Flavor Flav, Chuck D, DJ Lord, Khari Wynn, and Professor Griff, was formed in Long Island, New York in 1982. Blessed with huge success, they have performed to huge crowds, written powerful hits, and influenced lovers of music throughout the world. Known for their politically charged lyrics expressing the frustrations and concerns of the African American community, this Iconic group has made their mark in history, there is simply no group- like them.
Tru. Entertainment Magazine, Chief Editor Lydia King sat down with the groups’ leader, Chuck D for a TRU. EXCLUSIVE interview about their latest project. A 5 disc DVD collectors set with never before released footage filmed in Minneapolis and co-produced by Tru.’ own, Tru: Hey, what’s goin on Chuck? It’s nice to talk Lydia Marie King, Kevin King and Mike Holmes. with you again. Tell us what you’ve been up to so far this year. appreciated having the opportunity to work with you on your first DVD Collectors Set. Chuck D: Been trying to stay warm in January in the east (laughs), but seriously my big thing Chuck D: You mean the Definition of Public Enemy? It’s is concentrating on rap stations. Like, Ten a 5 DVD set. I’m helped out by Tru magazine on one of Channels Deep, which is the world’s loudest those DVDs, they actually shot the Minneapolis perforrap entertainment network and Split Digital mance. “Dope” is a saying in hip hop and rap music in Distribution, which distributes close to one the golden era of the 80s, which basically said the people hundred record labels and puts them into the would get addicted to the beats and music as opposed digital storages like iTunes, Amazon and Spotito anything else out there running in the streets or by fy, and developing our labels under that distrithe streets. So, let us be addicted to great music that bution circuit, and just being able to provide makes us stronger, break that down into an acronym service. That’s our goal. And music and hip hop where we use it in records. You know the definition of and stuff like that. Public Enemy, like down with the D.O. P. E. There are 5 DVDs on that set for a great price out there in the Tru: What can you share with us about your marketplace. And really, if anybody doesn’t know about new D.O.P.E. project? The TRU. TEAM really Public Enemy, that is a great starting point. It has the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony;, it has the Hip Hop Gods Tour on it from 2012 which was a ground breaking tour and our first tour in a long time from East to West:- it has a little bit of the King of the Mic Tour that we did with LL and Ice Cube, De La Soul from 2013. The London Invasion from 1987, and “Welcome to the Terror Dome”, which is a documentary of Public Enemy done by Robin Pax Ru, and I think there is another one in there. I think it is “Where there is Smoke”. It really covers the 30 years of PE really well, which is important up to 2015. I am happy to be involved with it, and it comes with a split level distribution DVD that has some video sections and bit films. Those things are going on, trying to accent those. Tru: Are there current plans to take the Hip Hop God’s tour out on the road again? ChuckD: Well, Hip Hop Gods is on the web at hiphopgods.com, and it is a foundation for classic artists who record now as well as their past records. The website is very vibrant. It is commandeered by Flatline, who is in the Pacific Northwest, and he heads up Hip Hop Gods a as a site. He also has a 24 radio rap station called Hip
Hop Gods radio, and he does segments of shows that come on every Tuesday and a segment on the We Don’t Stop radio station, which is heavily imbedded in making our radio shows shine. Flatline makes it the only destination that will really pay attention to when an artist comes out and their fifteen or twenty year career and figuring out where that record should go now and where it should rotate. It will find a home on hiphopgods.com especially for an artist who considers themselves a legend in the rap community. On top of that, it is a foundation and the next plateau for that is touring. Ever since the first Hip Hop Gods tour in December 2012, there have been big plans. So, Hip Hop Gods brand had more aspect of the branding on the Kings of the Mic Tour with LL Cool J, De La Soul, Ice Cube and Public Enemy which was in summer of 2013. But the whole idea was to have three or four Hip Hop Gods tours at smaller levels with six or seven acts playing as a review across the country, working together on one or two busses, and being able to tour and play venues that were under a thousand people and being able to tour East to West and North to
South, or be able to do a certain number of dates that would beneficial to the fans and artists alike. So, those are the plans for 2015; to do maybe a couple Hip Hop Gods tours, like two or three, and have them run like in some kind of flow, a modern day chitlin circuit with better hotels and play hopefully. Tru: Who are some of the artists you are considering taking out on the tour with PE? ChuckD: Well, we also set up an agency. One thing we do in order for us was we had to do a 2013 tour. And we set up an agency, which would be able to accent the management, kinda do quasi management work, and be able to have many artists that were available to just perform but also to do other things. All of this was formed out of those who began to question, like “How do you do it man?” “How do you guys get on the road?” and “How do you stay a group for 25 years and make the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame”? And “Chuck you have been on the lecture circuit for 22 years, just how do you do that?” So that is how these things started, and we became able to build our own agencies that worked with our agencies too. And situations that used kind of the same things that we would use from bussing, to companies down to venues. And see, if we can actually build up the profile of artists to be able to understand that you may have started your recording career in the 80s but now everybody’s fans are scattered. Everybody is older. There might be accessible income for some fans who followed you as a teenager and are now in their 40s or 50s. You also want to see, are you on Facebook? There, let’s connect that. And do you do Twitter or Instagram or whatever? And they’ll get it through their whatever and once you connect these things, it is like “Wow, okay I know you exist and I see you are coming to town.” And you are over there or over there we may be playing a cruise. So, there is already a maturity that has happened to rap music and hip hop. And how do we structure and organize maturity to make sure it is engaging for artists, and make them feel like they can do what
they do forever? Although, it is a different realm of understanding-like what that art is and where it should go and it is going now. That is the meaning of a Hip Hop God and the age and the agency of the Gods who set this up. We think it could be three to four tours this year; we are looking forward to that. Of course, it would be regional with ten to twelve dates and everybody will go on, but these dates and these plans for these tours I will just say it doesn’t stop when the show is over, when that performance is over and done. How do you stay in contact with something that you have admired physically. That is what we want to connect. Tru: What’s your TRUTH Chuck? “The key with rap and hip hop music is that you have to leave with something better than when you started, and hip hop was always able to do that. How I came in, I know I left better than I came in, which means it was really exciting on the stage. _____________________________ _____________________________ ____________________ If you have never heard this band before, you are missing out. Their songs speak out not only to one generation, but to all ages. Anyone young or old can enjoy them and get something out it and find meaning in the lyrics and the message behind them. The tentative date for the release of this wonderful 5 DVD set is February 2015. Go out and buy it! It will be worth every penny. Photo courtesy of: citypages.com & DavidWong
“The key with rap and hip hop music is that you have to leave with something better than when you started.� ~CHUCK D
ATLANTA AREA ONLY
Theater
Thought provoking stage play; “Under The Freeway” takes on tough questions: Who are these people and why are they homeless? By: Producer, Brandi Burks According to the data submitted by The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in January 2014, there were 578,424 people experiencing homelessness on any given night in the United States. (HUD) requires communities to submit this data every other year in order to qualify for federal homeless assistance funds. The question becomes, “Who are these people and why are they homeless?” So many of us are potential candidates for homelessness, yet we fail to take time to peer into the lives of those who have are met with the stigma and discriminatory sting of homelessness. “Under The Freeway” is a revelatory theatrical depiction of this ill that has become so easy to ignore. While governmentally we fund the facilities lending a hand, individually we neglect the humanistic insight, compassion and concern to know the hope, or the potential and the possibilities that lie within each individual we have generally labeled as homeless. “Under the Freeway” intentions are to universally change the perception of homelessness as simply another demographic. Instead, it allows us to peer into the individual’s life to see how they got there and how they can be recovered and restored to the mainstream populous. We firmly believe that this staged reflection of homelessness will aid in the recovery of those who have fallen on tough times as well as spark a Nation to prayerfully access and respond to the crisis differently. The next performance of “Under the Freeway” will take place on Saturday, February 28th, at 7:00pm, at the City of Refuge Church, 14527 S. San Pedro St., Gardena, CA, where Bishop Noel Jones presides as Senior Pastor. Please help us positively impact the homeless community by either advertising in our program, purchasing tickets for your group, extending a donation or becoming a sponsor of this theatrical movement to eradicate homelessness. This production is life changing with such a compelling story, phenomenal music, and we would not want you to miss it. For more information please call (310) 600-7402. You may also visit us online at www.happy4show.com, or purchase tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com
RAW TALENT Tru. Sports
Freddy Reeves Jr
On A Mission to Hoop: In the U.S. Olympics By Lydia King
Photos: Jim Connolly, Regional Visual Coach
USA Men’s Basketball Olympic Hopeful, Freddy Reeves Jr., a sophomore at Long Branch High School in New Jersey, is starting point guard on the Boys Varsity Team. This amazing young player is ALSO... pursuing an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Men’s USA 16U Olympic Team! The 16-year old baller also has his heart set on one day playing for the NBA, and is a (according to his father) “one of the most humble down to earth kids you’d ever want to meet”. His father, Fred Reeves Sr. is an educator and program creator who works with troubled youth. Also worthy of a mention is the fact that Freddy (Sr.) has developed a learning program for youth with learning difficulties, which has been recognized by Oprah Winfrey, as one of her favorite things. Talk about a dynamic duo! Clearly his father’s guidance is one of the most important factors which has kept Freddy Jr. grounded and working hard to meet his goals. He doesn’t hesitate to credit his dad for his own dedication, fortitude and balance. In fact, he beams about him; “he’s really instilled in me the importance of being a hard-working student and athlete. I am very focused on my game and focused especially on making a name for myself as a complete point guard”. Freddy Sr. smiles chiming in “when it comes to running the point he’s a true floor general and scorer who leads his team in assists”. Best of all we think is that this exceptional teen athlete also manages to maintain a 3.1 GPA and is on the ‘A Honor Roll’ at his school.
Some of his accomplishments aside from being a great leader and teammate include achieving national ranking in the following: • • • • • •
AAU St. Paul, MN MLK Kings state champs in 2010 MVP Minneapolis Select State Champs in 2011 MVP Colorado Hawks Adidas Tournament in Las Vegas, NV in 2012 Top Performer Ranked in the top 5 at the Chicago IL, Five Star Camp in 2014 New Jersey Neptune Jubilee Classic 2014 MVP Honors Featured in the Asbury Park Press News Paper for his performance at the Jubilee
Photos: Jim Connolly, Regional Visual Coach
We wanted to get to know Freddy a little better so we got together for a little Q & A. Here’s what he had to say. TRU: When did you first discover your love for basketball? Freddy: First time I could really say that I discovered the love for the game of basketball was when I played for the YMCA in 3rd grade. I was playing against 5th graders because I always had the IQ and the handles to play with the older kidswhich is key. I was still in the process of learning how to shoot but my IQ and my handles were definitely up to that level. That’s when I really found the love of basketball. TRU: What’s your workout ritual? Freddy: My workout ritual has multiple parts because before my work out if my grades and studying is not on point in class then basketball never comes out my mouth. Being taught to be a student athlete comes first and I’m blessed and talented to have been taught this because sports doesn’t mean anything if you don’t have the grades. So, having a 3.1 or higher is better. My workout is serious! I do 5 days a week in the gym for 2 hours. Monday, Wednesday and Friday its dribbling and ‘shake and bake moves’. The other days I’m not lifting in the weight room and doing p90x it’s; jumpers, 3’s, mid ranges and my favorite; shots on the floor and corner shots! Workouts are hard but if it burns then you know you doing something right. I feel like it’s only making you and your body healthier and more prepared for battle! TRU: Who are you inspired by? Freddy: The one who has inspired me the most still to this day, is my dad. I’m
a Junior, which most people don’t think means a lot, but honestly I’m him, just in my body. So everything about me- is him, how I play and everything. He pushed me to the point where you have no choice but to be a talented player. He pushed me so much and didn’t let me slack. So that got me used to just doing what I’m told. Working hard, pushing myself, making shots, finishing on the court and completing stuff off the court as well. Growing up it was hard ‘cuz we were little so we didn’t know as much (as we do now). These days thinking and talking about it with my sisters, all we can do is laugh because we know we can’t complain. Both of my sisters are in college playing ball and me, I’m trying to get there. Sometimes we’d get mad at being yelled
at or getting pushed to the point where we didn’t even want to play anymore- but we’re glad to have him. TRU: What’s in your five year plan? Freddy: My 5 year plan would have to be focusing on my grades and then basketball. I have to have good grades to fall back on, just in
Photos: Jim Connolly, Regional Visual Coach case basketball doesn’t work out. Pretty much every kids dream is to play at Division 1 College and hopefully turn Pro, so before I jump to those conclusions my next 2 years in high school I’m going to bust my butt as hard as possible to give myself a ticket to play at that next level, and hopefully
it all works out if I’m lucky. My years in college depending on if I’m going for a scholarship or for business management would all change if I go to either one, so staying positive and thanking God every day is my main goal, and doors will open for me. Stopping me is not an option the Olympics is my goal. Another inspiration is my grandma Cont. on Pg 57
SPORTS WITH HALEY SMILLOW Andrew McCutchen By Haley Smillow
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ollowing a career year in 2014, Pittsburgh center fielder Andrew McCutchen has his sights set on steering the Pirate ship back to the playoffs and beyond. Whether he wants to admit it or not, Andrew McCutchen is the face of the Pittsburgh Pirates franchise. In 2014, the Pirate center fielder enjoyed a career year that vaulted him into the discussion for a back-to-back National League MVP. He is considered one of the best all-around players in the game today. Baseball is being revived in the Steel City, but McCutchen refuses to talk ‘me’ it’s all about the team. “I’ve always been the type of player that just tries to do what he can to help the ball club win and get better,” McCutchen said. “It takes more than one person to turn a ball club around. It takes a whole team, coaching staff, trainers, all of that.… It’s great being able to see this place filled and fans excited about what we’re doing. We just have to keep going.” Our Junior Reporter Haley Smilow had the chance to site down and put Andrew on the hot seat.
HALEY: Do you have a favorite ballpark other then PNC and why? And is there a ballpark where you feel you always play well in? ANDREW: Coors Field in Colorado it’s a fun park and I seem to always play well there. HALEY: Growing up in Florida you could play baseball year round, do you think it gave you an advantage as a young ball player? ANDREW: Yes the kids in the north don’t have the opportunity to play baseball in the winter as I had the opportunity to play all year. I could always go out and play and ot have to wait for nicer weather. HALEY: Have you ever played any other position? ANDREW: I played shortstop and pitcher. HALEY:Who is the biggest practical joker you have ever been on a team with? Have you ever been the victim of one of his practical jokes? ANDREW: There are not many on the Pirates, but I would have to say that AJ Burnet is the biggest practical joker on this team. I have not been a victim as of yet, but in the minors I was. Guys would put tape in between the spaces on the metal bench andthen hold a lighter to the tape, which made the metal really hot and it made your butt really hot when you sat on it!! HALEY: Do you have any superstitions or rituals? ANDREW: Not really. If I have a good game, I tend to eat the same things, like if I ate a sub from Jimmy John’s then I would eat the same sub the next day. HALEY: How often do you change bats and what do you do with the old ones? ANDREW: They don’t last too long, usually about two weeks or they break. The authenticators usually take the bats and that’s the last I see of them. HALEY: Do you have any pets, and what is your favorite animal? ANDREW: No pets. I had a black lab named Buddy, but he was too big for our family and we gave him to another family. My favorite animal is a cheetah because they are fast.
HALEY: What is your favorite thing to cook? ANDREW: I don’t cook a lot, but I would have to say pasta. I make baked spaghetti. I put sausage and beef in the sauce, add the pasta, put cheese on top and then bake it. That’s how you get baked spaghetti. HALEY: Who was your favorite team growing up? Who where some of the players that you looked up to as a kid? ANDREW: I was a Brave’s fan because the Marlins and Rays were not in existence until I was about 10. Ken Griffey Jr. because he was a power hitter and he could run down balls. HALEY:Can you describe what do you before a game when you are on the road? (Eat, Sleep, Shop…)
boys and girls come out and work on baseball fundamentals. I am also involved in 4 or 5 programs run in conjunction with the Pirates organization and myself. HALEY: If you were not playing baseball, what else could you see yourself doing?
ANDREW: Lots of rest and sleep. It’s when I get a chance to catch up. If it’s a night game, we usually head to the field around 2:00 and if it’s a day game I wake up around 8:30 and head to the stadium around 10.
ANDREW: That’s a tough question. I would probably do something in music, since my mother is in music. I would probably be a producer.
HALEY: I read that you love to collect unusual and funky socks. Are you wearing any today?
ANDREW: I don’t know the names of many poses, but one I think is downward facing dog.
ANDREW: No today I am wearing normal socks. Note: Haley was wearing funky socks, which Andrew liked and also she brought him a pair of socks with bananas on them, which he said matched the road uniforms.
HALEY: I understand swimming is part of your work out routine what do you do specifically?
HALEY: Do you have any other favorite sports besides Baseball?
HALEY:Did you watch the Olympics? What was your favorite Olympic event? What Olympic event would you compete.
ANDREW: I like to watch football and basketball and I played both when I was younger. HALEY: What types of community service or charity work are you involved in? ANDREW: This year I hosted my own baseball camp “Camp Cutch” and had about 300 local
HALEY: I heard you do Yoga, what is your favorite pose.
ANDREW: Anything that gets your heart rate up like high steps, running, jumping, etc. Anything that gets your heart beating.
ANDREW: I watched a little of the Olympics, but it’s kind of hard since it was in the middle of the season. I like track and field, diving, swimming, and gymnastics. I would compete in track and field. Those guys are real fast, so I would probably lose. HALEY: 5 songs in your Ipod that are on repeat?
ANDREW: I don’t have an Ipod, but I listen to Christian Rap – Lecrea and KB and Usher. HALEY: Favorite Ballpark food? ANDREW: We don’t eat it, thank God!! When I played for Altoona in the minors, I did eat the Altoona Burger. HALEY: I heard you’re a good beat boxer who is your favorite? ANDREW: Maybe Dougie Fresh because he started it, but there is a lot of great young guys now. I can’t remember his name but there is this kid in London I really like. HALEY: What is your favorite ice cream flavor? ANDREW: Chocolate but I don’t eat a lot of ice cream. HALEY: What is the meaning behind this hand sign? ways have fun doing what you do, and keep working hard. ANDREW: Zoltan from “Dude Where’s My Car.” and Intro by: Nathan Clickenbeard of Baseball Youth Magazine it is flashed when a player gets A portion of this interview appears in Baseball Youth Magazine an extra base hit or home run Thank You to Andrew McCutchen, John Fuller, Jim Trdinich and the Pirates or does something to rally behind. Neil Walker started it Follow Haley Smilow when we were in Atlanta and Twitter @Smilow had the move on in the clubhttp://smilow.mlblogs.com/ house http://www.wix.com/smilow/home-field-advantage HALEY: What advice would you give to young players? ANDREW: No days off, al-
Cont. From Pg 46
Young Freddy at an Early age
On A Mission to Hoop: In the U.S. Olympics
Check out Freddy’s entire sports file http://www.esportsfolio.com/ athletes/freddy-reeves-jr *Photos: Jim Connolly, Regional Visual Coach, Additional source: Asbury Park Press, Home News Tribune, Courier News, Daily Record
that passed away from Ovarian Cancer just 3 days before my birthday. This was and still is, the saddest moment of my life. Thinking about her makes me have ‘no fear’ to do anything on or off the court. So I kiss her every day as she watches over me from heaven. Looks like he’s definitely has got his head on straight. Not to mention the fact that he’s a great kid with a huge kind and generous heart. Freddy is also a donor and supporter of the 1 Love 1 Mission Movement www.gofundme. com/1Love1Mission a charitable case established to help those in need who are homeless and living on the streets across our nation. Tru. readers, our team and of course I, am looking for great things from Freddy Reeves. Something tells me that we’ll all be following this young baller straight to the U.S. Olympics, all the way up to the NBA... and beyond! Go get ‘em Freddy, we see you!
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It is with sorrow that we here at Tru. Entertainment Magazine must announce that another great pioneer has passed on. Titi Branch, co-founder of Miss Jessie hair products, lost her life after battling depression. Sources say that the 45-year old entrepreneur committed suicide. Her cause of death was concluded to be asphyxiation. A family friend confirmed her death via The Washington Post. Many loved ones and supporters, including sister Miko, tweeted their grievances. The Miss Jessie Twitter page also sent out a heartfelt message. Branch, a graduate of the University of Maryland, opened a salon in Brooklyn, NY with sister Miko in 1997. Following this, the sisters launched their hair products in 2004, which cater to natural hair textures. These were among the first black hair care products to be placed on the shelves of large department stores such as Target and Walmart. Titi Branch, along with her sister, paved the way for other natural hair products to enter the beauty market. Miss Jessie’s cofounder gave women of color the opportunity to embrace their natural hair types. She will surely be missed *Additional Source Soraya Nadia McDonald, “Titi Branch, co-founder of Miss Jessie’s natural hair color line, dead at 45,” The Washington Post, Dec. 15, 2014.
GOING HOME Titi Branch By Kasey Green
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