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UT California/Intl:
Music Of
Ellis Martin
28 Reality and Words
Joy Elon
Finances: Who Wants to be Rich pg 7 Webseries: Whats Your Chocolate: pg 11 Twistress: pg 20
16 The Power of Her Ministry
08 Debbie Dixon
Q&A Style with Michael Snell pg 22
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Jesse Davis’ S.O.U.L pg 26
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The Editor’s Notes It’s our Burt-dae!!! It’s our Burtdae!!! Our Burt-dae our Burt-dae! And we are celebrating with everyone! Living this year like every quarterly issue of the magazine is
more! more! We have turned the networking dial all the way up!!! Let the voices of the world SPEAK and be heard!!! (Contributors please send info to us via email for publishing)
couldn't. :-) and letting me try again.
(SMILING) OUR BIRTHDAY! Feb 2015 I was in flight to S.A to meet with those I’d been networking with for a while, I attended the N.C Writers festival in Kimberley which was The first issue still feels like yester- my first introduction to the New day! Sooo many tears!! I'm learning Life. I returned home rejuvenated the “How To's" hands on with being and inspired! Striving to introduce an editor of an internationally pub- Africa to America and abroad. :-) lished magazine! Daily lessons and Especially how we are worlds away tests have become my chalkboard yet we deal with the same issues. of success and moving forward to August I was afforded the same more chalk boards. I'm excited and opportunities to return to the Eastit’s our birthday!!! ern province and visit South Africa again. I had an opportunity to In the height of many movements network with people who were in our through art and culture with reigns the magazines previous issues and Birthday issue! CELEBRATING of political aspects Urban Tymes set up movements for future isbridging the gap between South Global sits on the pinnacle point of sues. Feeling like #travellingblackAfrica, America and abroad "Be the Change You Want To See through Art, Fashion, Music, Litera- In The world" Gandhi and being an girl I travelled to Amsterdam to speak on the movements of art in ture and culture has been our foexample of change. Black America was back in NY for cus and in the last four issues we have begun to tread water quite In addition to being the editor here Fashion week and then home. It was on that journey of maturity and nicely. I'm soooooo EXCITED!!!! I'm a 37 year old single mother of spiritual growth that I learned.... We have had interviews and feathree, Art Gallery owner, Social LIFE and LIVING. This living life tures from an amazing group of Networker and Artistic Director, artists, designers, models, photog- founder of the #wealthywed move- fountain is refreshing!!! Celebrating every movement even the unhappy raphers, businesses, authors, mu- ment and Z.A.M Zarif Artists Manones like it's today! OUR BIRTHsicians and contributions from agement. My work has been DAY!!!!! amazing freelance writers. WOW! published in many magazines around the world as well as the This year bigger and better!!! Let’s As we enter into the 2nd year of clients that I’ve represented but in go and grow together and change our movements through literature Spring of 2014 I realized I was the world. This whole world needs on this international platform and alive and successful within some to meet us! One issue at a time!! as i'm living in Gods glory of being measures but not living. 2015 i Thank you for joining me on this present to see my dreams come learned to live! the magazine true, I'm dreaming Bigger and Wild- launched 1/15/15 at 1:15 pm world- journey we have more trekking to do! er and in TECHNOCOLOR! This wide I was soo excited! Called my year will be much of the same but friends and family who all held my HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US better.... MORE of everything (yell- hands through this process, and YALL!!!!!!! ing in my queenly voice) more thanked each and every one of fashion editorials, more interviews them. Super shout outs to Carey Jowhari Trahan with mainstream and indie artists, Digsby for allowing me to expand designers, authors, poets more! his platform and build doing things Urban Tymes International MY WAY or telling me why I
JAN 2016 Escape to the Stage pg 32
Pata Pata: Food, Music and Flair! pg 40 Maruping Phepheng’s Nightfall pg 42 Starting Now SA Youth Retreat pg 44 Help a Stranger Foundation pg 47 Style and Fashion: KENG Clothing pg 48 Nseabasi Photography Concept (NPC) pg 50 The Intl flavors of DJ Dusty/ Jazz & Milk pg 55 Luanga Choba: Homegrown Gonzo Soul pg 60 #Ten Stories: Personal conversations bring closeness and awareness pg 62
Music: El’I pg 53
Finances
Who Wants to be Rich?
Varnell Bien-Amie people will have resolutions and have makeovers, why not redo your finances with simple steps to gain wealth. wealth in these times The first thing I want you to do is grab your last of economic turmoil, where uncertainty and three bank statements and monitor what you are spending and highlight those items that disillusionment were impulsive items, meaning that it wasn’t prevail? For Veronica Brooks, a preplanned you just happen to purchase just because. Now I also want you to highlight person worthy to be placed in very success those food items that you may have been able to make at home but due to lack of planning story book, what you you had to order out. The reason for this exerneed is a head start. In every page of her cise is this, if after you calculate the cost and book to financial freedom, she provided the the amount that you have spent is more than secrets of becoming a millionaire or even a 10% of your gross income than you may have billionaire in a step by step procedure that a mindset about money that needs to be starts in the first ninety days of seriously purchanged and your mindset is the first thing that suing your financial goals. needs adjusting. For the next several articles I want to share with you exerts from her book and conversations which will serve as a good starting point To learn more, contact Mr. Bien-Amie at : to change your situation around. Wealth is truly a mindset, you will find that how you feel https://www.linkedin.com/in/vbaprofession al/ about money is a direct correlation on what you do with your money. I want everyone to go on this journey with me as we begin to start a new year and so many
Is it possible to gain
www.ThisNeedsToBeSaid.com
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The Power of Her Ministry
Debbie Dixon humble spirit has touched people of all ages and nationalities. Debi’s natural ability to sing, combined with the potency of the anointing of the Word of God in song, is designed to bring souls to the Lord and the body of Christ at His feet. A native of Brooklyn, New York, she began her journey of ministry at the tender age of five; along with seven other siblings born to the late Bishop Alfred and Constance Dixon. Her credentials are not limited to just the Gospel genre; Debi has amassed a wide spectrum of audiences utilizing her gift in the area of Classical and Jazz forums. Her love for music has given her a wide range of experience in many venues of art, but her love for God has kept her at his feet worshipping him When you share in the ministry of Debi Dixon with the music he has planted inside of her heart four words come to mind, powerful, melodious, and in her spirit. For many years she like so anointed, and highly favored. While other singers have mastered the art by professional train- many others was challenged with raising her children; daughter Adina and twin sons Alexx ing to enhance their talents, she is no different. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Voice and Allan alone, but is a living testament of what Pedagogy and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in the grace of God can do for mothers who find themselves as the primary provider and parent of Painting and Illustration from East Carolina Uni- their children. In this season of her life and the versity, along with over 30 years of professional lives of her children she has remained committed training from various universities and institutions to the work of the Lord and is an inspiration to single mothers all over the country. worldwide. Her humorous personality and
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blessed to travel abroad to Belize, Central America, Guyana, Liberia, Zaire, Honduras, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica, West Indies and is looking forward to ministering in the very near future in the UK and in Nigeria. November 28th through December 21st 2015, Debi toured to Switzerland where she performed 14 concerts through Zurich and other surrounding cities there. She’s ministered in Italy and Debi recently completed another several areas of Tokyo, Japan; assignment in ministry in Houston, where she has visited 16 trips and Texas where she was Pastor over been featured on 4 recordings with Music and Arts for The Redeemed Reverend Andre’ Reynolds and Christian Church, Dominion Cha- TPW Ministries of Birmingham, pel in Stafford Texas, pastored by Alabama, international ministries Bayo and Toun Fagduba, with a that tours abroad yearly. gathering of over 2000 Nigerian worshippers, with a mandate and vision to be a light house to all the nations. Because Debi has ministered in various venues from the small intimate churches to Atlanta’s Phillips Arena, Georgia Dome, and Civic Center, with the worldrenowned evangelist Rhine Hart Bounky, Bishop Donn Tomas, Bishop Noel Jones and Paula White there is no limit to what the Lord has in store for her life. Debi presently resides in Villa Rica GA where she is the Music Consultant and Vocal Trainer over Music and Arts for Kingdom Dominion Church in Villa Rica, Georgia, pastored by Pastor James Calvin Tabs Jr. She also serves as the associate Minister of Music for the First Pentecostal Church in Greenville North Carolina under the direction Minister Dion Gaskin.
She has shared the stage with Grammy and Stellar Award winners, Elder Daryl Coley, Richard Smallwood, the late Pastor Timothy Wright, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, TyeTribbett, Don Moen, Andre’ Crouch, BeBe & CeCe Winans, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Helen Baylor, Vickie Yohi, Rev. Bobby Jones, Pastor William Murphy, Bishop Paul Morton, and many more. She was blessed to have been nominated for Best Female Vocalist, and Album of the Year at the 2005 and 2009 Atlanta Gospel Choice Awards. Adding to her rich musical life, Debi has been
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Her vast discography has given her the honor of performing before Ambassadors, Presidents, and Kings. She is a highly sought-after musical lecturer and worship leader extraordinaire, conducting workshops, and just using her talents and gifts to pour into others to uplift the kingdom of God. To add to the success of her Music Ministry, she is a gifted visual artist as well. Debi is presently working on her sophomore project to be released in the fall of 2016 entitled “One Voice�. May the fruit of her hands continue to glorify the Lord as this anointed vessel continues to spread the gospel and uplift the king!
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URBANITY
The Darker the Passion…The Sweeter the Consequence On Tuesday December 29th, the world was introduced to the new web series “What’s Your Chocolate.” The Synopsis (from the website) Welcome to Chocolate Cosmetics, where you can always find the right shade of lies to cover your secrets. The first family and employees of the nefarious cosmetics brand are searingly familiar with secrets, and what it takes to hide them. But when a former employee goes missing, those secrets begin to unravel. What would you do to keep your deepest secrets from the ones you love? How far are you willing to go? The web episode premiere introduced viewers to a lavish masquerade event in which each attendee deeply involved in various plots of intrigue, love and
lust. Each actor bringing an element of curiosity and surprises just in the 9 minutes episode! First thoughts, this show has the makings of a 21st century version of those classic soaps that held one’s attention fixated for hours and reveled in discussion amongst each other. Or even better, it steps onto a path that will have you surprised at each turn. “Where is she?” “Who did it?” “What will be next?” Rich, decadent, intense in flavor….. What is next for Chocolate Cosmetics….?
What’s Your Chocolate? www.whatisyourchocolate.com
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Executive Team: Timothy McCallum – Creator\Executive Producer\Head Writer Curtis Reynolds – Executive Producer\Director of Photography\Director\Writer Leo Lavell – Executive Director\Senior Writer\Producer Tonia Williams - Executive Assistant
Cast: Gwen McCallum as Alex Washington Nicholas Johnson as Vance Martin Mar’Ques Woolford as Maxwell Crawford Kareesh Forreal as Laura Crawford Tyrue Rembert as Donovan Ashley Johnson as Stacy Martic
AJ Johnson as Dylan Martin Travis Stinson as Troy Peters Constance Rae Reynolds as Iris Jones Crew: Antwain Fox - Cinematographer\Editor Jahmir Raheem - Director\Videographer Moe Kimble - GRIP Nick – Craft Services Hair and Make Up: Dana Godbolt - Director of Styling David The Best Hemphill - Senior Hair Stylist Lori Ashley Lofton - Make Up Artist Shannika Marlow - Make Up Artist Sharetta Richard - Make Up Artist Briana Nicholson - Make Up Artist
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The Writers’
Joy Elan is from Oakland and
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Berkeley, CA. She received her BA degree in African American Studies at UC Berkeley and her MA degree in Education at Stanford University. She is an author of four books, and won third place in Oakland's Got Talent in June 2014 for her spoken word piece, I'm A Survivor. In 2015, she won Poetry Video of the Year for the National Poetry Awards for her video performance of "I'm A Survivor."
Joy Elan was born with a hearing loss and has been wearing hearing aids since she was 15 months. Despite the obstacles she faced, she overcame many of them and continues to overcome obstacles. Her mother always told her that she had three things against her: Black, female, and disabled. Joy Elan went through life prepared for what she would face and has smiled throughout everything she has been through. She share stories and experiences through her writings and work with others to empower them. She is currently working with urban youth in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her books are available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble sites. You can learn more about Joy Elan and see her perform her poetry by going to: http://authorjoyelan.com/. Book synopsis: Silence Is Not Always Golden: The Power of Spoken Words is a collection of poetry that is defying the norm. Written words have power because anyone can refer to them. However, spoken words are more powerful because the words are brought to life once they leave the body or a piece of paper. Instead of writing what people want to hear, I wrote what people need to hear. The truth! Sometimes the truth can be beautiful and sometimes it can be ugly. My words and my voice are my weapons and I have to speak up on my beliefs. Other people may not feel as
powerful to speak up so I speak up for them. I could not sit there and not say anything. I was taught that you cannot do what everyone else wants; you have to do what YOU want. To be YOU is as original as there can be and people will try to put you down because you are different. I say try because only YOU can let them. My words are my way of fulfilling my purpose because I am making my dream a reality and I am showing you that you can do the same. This edition is slightly different from Silence Is Not Always Golden: A Poetic Revolution because there are clean versions of the poems and a few new poems that were written after I published it. Sincerely, Joy Elan
www.authorjoyelan.com
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http://www.divabooksinconline.com
http://marqueswoolford.com
Style And
Fashion
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Twistress Fashion, Style and Creative Expression As I have aged and matured in my life, being married for 9 years with two young sons and having a well-developed professional career. Covering my hair had become and part of my personal growth, a symbol of religious maturation. I am no proclaimed fashionista, but I initially felt limited in my ability to cover fashionably. It was important to be able to wear a hair covering that still expressed deep personal style.
M
y name is Haneefah Shuaibe
-Peters. I identify myself as Muslim before anything else. Born and raised in Oakland CA, my family has a deep rooted history in the religion dating back to the early 1960s when the Nation of Islam was a prominent organization in the Bay Area. As the daughter of an Imam, faith has always been an undeniable component of my life.
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One of the iconic symbols in the religion of Al-Islam is the covering of women's hair. Most commonly referred to as Hijab. I, however, was raised in a family and community that promoted modesty in all forms. Though many of the women in my life covered exclusively, hair covering was not pushed on me as a requirement, but encouraged as a responsibility of me as growing woman in the religion.
The Twistress brand came out of a desire to fulfill this fashionable need not only for myself, but also for women both young and experienced in the religion. I believe women should feel confident and secure in their ability to fulfill religious duties without shame or discomfort. Twistress is not to be regarded as a scarf. For Muslim women who cover regularly, it's a wardrobe piece that gives unlimited headdress styling ability. It allows us to cover our hair in creative styles and with full personal expression. The Twistress brand stands on the principle that Al Islam gives us confidence for self-expression and creativity. Find out more about how to order Twistress by following on Instagram @Twistress . Website www.Twistress.com to launch February 2016.
Style And
Fashion
Th is month, the versatile clothier GvS answers several style questions for men to add to their repertoire! WHERE SHOULD MY TIE END AT MY WAIST? The bottom tip of the tie should end somewhere around the top edge to middle of your belt. Any lower looks odd, and often results in a tiny knot. There is a trend to wear ties uncommonly short, but we don’t recommend it. Classic style ends at the belt.
With Michael
D. Snell A hallmark of a custom suit is its working cuffs. Off-the-rack suits are sold without knowing the length of the arm of the buyer, so manufacturers have to use show buttons. This allows the sleeve to be shortened or lengthened by the buyer. A custom or bespoke suit is made for its owner, with their arm length known up front, allowing the tailor to cut functioning buttonholes, rendering the sleeve length unalterable. This is a long way of saying that a guy with a custom suit has the ability to show off the fact that his suit is special. Leaving a button or two unfastened sends a subtle signal to the world that their suit is custom, and therefore expensive. Traditionalists consider this to be ostentatious and unbecoming of a gentleman. We disagree. At GvS we always rock the unbuttoned look. IS IT OKAY TO HANG MY SWEATERS? We recommend folding your sweaters and any other knitwear. Hanging a knit can allow it to stretch and loose it’s tightness and form over time. It can also leave unsightly “points” on the edge of the shoulders from the weight of the sweater as it hangs on the hanger.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO OVER-ACCESSORIZE? Absolutely. We see it all the time. Look at the #menswear images on Tumblr. In an effort to ARE BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT COLLARS APshow some style (which we admire and applaud) PROPRIATE WITH A SUIT? some guys go too far. The old rule of thumb womYou can wear a button-down shirt collar with a en have been using forever is: Get dressed, look suit, yes. But be aware that a button-down is a in the mirror, and remove one accessory. This less-formal look than a traditional pinpoint collar. holds for guys, too. You have to learn to edit your The most formal (non-tuxedo) shirts are clean and look. We think 2 accessories is plenty. 3 can be simple. Pinpoint collars, no pockets, French front, okay if done tastefully. And 1 is always fine. Don’t with French cuffs. The more details and adornforget, a flashy or large watch counts as an accesments, such as pockets, pleats, etc, the more ca- sory. A small, simple watch may be so understatsual. And it goes without saying that solids are ed as to not visually count as an accessory. If you more formal than a shirt with a pattern. have a tie bar, pocket square, lapel pin, cufflinks, and a shiny watch you’ve gone too far. When acWHY DO I SEE GUYS WEARING SOME OF cessorizing less is definitely more. THEIR SUIT CUFFS UNBUTTONED?
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https://www.gvsclothiers.com
The House of LeMond
#staydappermyfriends http://www.thehouseoflemond.bigcartel.com
MUSIC Jesse Davis’
S.O.U.L. by NiAmbi` Agent Born and raised in South Carolina, is Jesse Davis, a 24-year-old hip-hop emcee who’s bringing the basics back to hip-hop. Giving us hard-hitting beats, strong lyrics and flow, while giving us the soul-filled music our families grew up on. With his intellect and debonair character, he’s showing originality and uplifting lives with his new entitled album, S.O.U.L. As a young 6-year-old, Jesse recalls his Winnsboro-home being a house of R&B and soul; other than Will Smith, his mother didn’t allow hip-hop music because of the profane lyrics. Throughout his adolescent years, he was exposed to hip-hop legends and giants like Big L, Common and Tupac Shakur. Jesse cites a hip-hop pioneer, KRS-One, as he weighs in on his own perceptions of hip-hop and what it means to him, “Rap is something you do, hiphop is something you live.” To Jesse, this music is a platform to outlet and release therapy. In S.O.U.L., soul is heard for sure and for that, we have The Reverend to thank — Al Green. Of course the love Jesse undoubtedly has for soulful sounds comes from his beloved grandfather, who sang in the church choir and as well as his grandmother, who also was blessed with an angelic voice. From a boy to the man he is, so much has influenced the artistry that Jesse has grown to have. From hip-hop heavyweights, Nas and LL Cool J to soulful legends, Al Green and Marvin Gaye - Jesse’s music muses these genres and resonates with us all. What is Jesse’s motivation to make the music he creates? It’s whatever that inspires - from just going out into the Carolina breeze to just talking with someone and relating to that person. “Basically, I get inspiration from others or whatever I’m going through personally,” says
Davis. Listen to “In the Rain”, “For My Mother” and “Heaven Conversations”, and you’ll hear the root of his motives that only emerges from there. While Davis is following his dreams, he will be joining the Spring 2016 graduating class at Phoenix’s own, Grand Canyon University. Being the artist that Jesse is, furthering his education as an English major has influenced his art also. “To basically put that I’m in school can kind of inspire the next artist,” he says. He’s done both successfully and not only does his music promote education, he shows it; Jesse adds student teaching to his list and includes the youth’s adolescent minds in his music. They give him feedback while their heads move to the rhythms of his music. Nearly into 2016, Jesse Davis gives us what’s been missing in music for a long time, and he’s in a lane that’s all his own. It’s music that makes you think, music that makes you feel good, music that’s uplifting and purely soul. For updates, LIKE Jesse Davis on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, @JesseDavis91 and purchase his new release S.O.U.L. for $10.00 at http://jessedavismusic.bandcamp.com/album/so-u-l.
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Into the Mind of
Ellis Martin Opinionated and outspoken with an open mind — Ellis Martin lives this way, and it’s evident in his music that he’s more than ready for the world to hear. His music, style and his brand as a whole are dope, and the creativity is like no other. He took his time to hone the artistry, musicianship and brand in order for them to become one and what it is now, that is Ellis Martin. NiAmbi`: One thing I know is that visuals are important; they almost draw you to the core. How did all three of those components evolve into one complete package? Ellis: Bringing these three separate elements – artist, music and brand – together into a single entity was the most important, and difficult part of becoming an artist. I believe in a single brand, a single message and a single mission. When people hear my name, I want them to think of everything I represent and stand for. Even if someone thinks my music sucks, they will at least be aware of my brand.
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I refused to release any of my music until I had this brand set in stone. And so, it took about four years to get it right. In the end, Ellis Martin became exactly who I am, day-in and day-out: A cynical, frustrated, jaded, world-weary troublemaker who has absolutely no hesitation speaking his mind. I’ve been this way for as long as I can remember. I sometimes feel I belong in a different time and place, with different values and beliefs. And so my music and message reflect this cynicism. The doo-wop sound of my music harkens back to earlier times, as do my ideas and beliefs. My suits, my photos, my website, my live shows, my music videos, my social media efforts all reflect this hopeful nostalgia and a rejection of modern society. I’m a simple man with clear opinions, and I believe this resonates deeply with my fans. They can sense that I speak directly from the heart. NiAmbi`: How have your life experiences influenced your music and all that you stand for currently? Ellis: In terms to what I write about and represent, I don’t feel my experiences are any different than the next person. I just respond to them differently. Everyone hears the terrible music on the radio and sees talentless charlatans on TV. Everyone knows politicians are beyond corrupt and that America is losing its positive influence on the world. But for most people, this frustration usually doesn’t go beyond a conversation or rant. For me, it shaped my whole being. I can’t ignore it even if I wanted to.
ue. It is a world in which true beauty is dying, and talent is nowhere to be found. It is a world so devoid of meaning and purpose that money has become the new God. In Pornotopia, Kim Kardashian is on the cover of Rolling Stone, a music magazine. In Pornotopia, a candidate named “Deez Nuts” can run for President, and no one riots in the streets. It is hell on earth, but no one can tell because it smells and looks like some oversexualized, hyper-stimulated “heaven”. Pornotopia is the world in which we live, and it must be destroyed. NiAmbi`: What was it like working with the “Classic Man”, Jidenna on this EP? Would you say that it was easy working with him in the studio? Were there any creative commonalities? Ellis: Working together with Jidenna was a true blessing, and I don’t say that lightly. The man is a genius in so many ways. His skills as a producer, singer, songwriter and rapper are complete and unparalleled, in my opinion. I knew he would be famous a long time ago, simply because of the power of his personality and the strength of his music. It was unbelievably easy working with him in the studio. He could adapt to any style and introduce ideas that don’t even resemble his own craft. We each had a deep appreciation for each other’s music, and we worked tirelessly to make our individual sounds and brands uniquely powerful.
But our music always differed. We listened to different artists and were drawn to different styles, but we used this to our advantage NiAmbi`: As we enter into the entitled EP, when we worked together. The “Pornotopia” Pornotopia, you’re illuminating us with your EP has so much of Jidenna’s unique observations about the world we live in, production and writing style, that it is difficult which is Pornotopia. It’s not what some people would believe it to mean. In your own to call it an Ellis Martin project entirely. Similarly, his upcoming single “Some Kind of words, could you explain what Pornotopia Way”, which I wrote and co-produced, has a is? lot of my style in it, and he wanted to keep it that way for just this reason. Ellis: Pornotopia is a world in which everything has a price, but nothing has val-
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NiAmbi`: Right now you’re touring, blessing the audiences with your artistry. Once you take hiatus from shows, what’s your next project after “Pornotopia” - what can we expect? What’s the inspiration for your next album? Ellis: I’ll be releasing “Pornotopia Pt. II” in March of 2016 to finish out the entire LP. There’s more that needs to be said about it, so I’ve been locking myself up in the studio to finish this project. I have to say I’m proud of the new songs I’m releasing. They’re darker and funkier, so I think a lot of my friends will appreciate the new direction. NiAmbi`: All of your music videos are worth watching. The visions allow the listeners to pay even more attention to the messages. I pretty much analyzed the “Maximilian” video, for example. Your album cover also tells a story. Other than music, do you have any other areas you’d like to express your talents, getting your messages across? Ellis: Yeah, I’d like to be President honestly. I know that seems like a joke, but I’m dead ass serious. This country needs new leadership.
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The people are hungry for a leader who sincerely cares about them, has good ideas and is willing to give his or her life for the cause. No one else wants to stand up and say what needs to be said, so I’ve always felt an obligation to put myself in the line of fire and lead the charge. NiAmbi`: If you weren’t pursuing music, what would you be doing? Ellis: I would probably be one of those crazy dudes on the NYC subway yelling about the end of the world. So, thank God for music. For more information on Ellis Martin, visit www.EllisMartinWorld.com, follow him on Twitter & Instagram @TheMadMrMartin and LIKE Ellis Martin on Facebook. This interview can be found on www.NiAmbiSpeaks2U.com - be sure to keep up with NiAmbi` Agent on Facebook at NiAmbi Speaks. Twitter and Instagram @NiAmbiSpeaks2U.
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WWW.ELIAHSOUL.COM
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ESCAPE TO THE STAGE
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"We are tired of explaining ourselves" that is one of the voices that echoes the sentiment of most of black South Afrikans about racism. We are indeed tired of the half-apologies that are expected to erase all the deep-seeded racial prejudice harbored by white South Afrika. It was recently in the news, an elderly estate agent one Ms Penny Sparrow, disgusted with the litter after a massive crowd of blackness gathered at the beach in Afrika to have a good time. She went as far as calling my brothers and sisters Monkeys. Surprising? No! Rare? Way too common. She did this and had the nerve to be puzzled by the wrath that followed her Facebook racist rant because "monkeys are so cute". Some of us tried to clarify to the Penny's of this world why this is racist, something that we all know very well. We also have to explain to other white people why harboring such notions and people within their communities, makes them racist too. The Native Land Act of 1913 sought to disposes land from us native majority and distribute among the settler minority. This is what Sol Plaatjie said caused a black man to find himself as a pariah overnight in his country of birth. Suddenly, all that is beautiful in Afrika was only suitable for Europeans. It became a crime to be found in certain places as a black man, yes, in Afrika. After a miraculous birth characterized by complications and near-abortion, South Afrika was hailed as that miraculous democratic child. She managed to avoid civil war, not just between black and white, but among us black people. This, as everybody knows, was as a result of a compromise. That very compromise that has preserved white privileges and wiped-out all
the atrocities committed against the systematically oppressed black majority. There was no apology or penance that preceded the forgiveness and amnesty we dished out in the interest of a brightly colored society. Just last week (yes in 2016) a white colleague was narrating to us how they used to target protest leaders while serving their compulsory military duty deployed as teens in black riotous townships. This was narrated with pride, oblivious of who he was talking to, 21 years since the ANC came to power. Add this to the appalling conditions of most black people in this country while those insulting them are the ones that put them in this situation, then you have a very flammable condition that is awaiting just that spark. Sadly for black people world-wide, this is nothing new. We hear of white police officers shooting dead black kids and teenagers mistaking them for the very primates Penny sees us as.
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communities. She is with the other high profile economists such as Chris Hart, politicians like former president FW De Klerk, Dianne Kohler Barnard, singer Steve Hofmeyer etc. This shows us that these racist views are held throughout white society, right from the street beggar to parliamentarian to top concomitant to former president. It is clearly kept alive in all spheres of our fellow country men's society. These are leaders of institutions that plot and drive the direction of this country, effectively institutionalizing racism. There is no hope of getting a fair deal buying real estate from Penny regardless of how cute a monkey you are. Be grateful for the Rhodes scholarship, forget how he made his name, that's what De Klerk wants us to do. "Respond only to what you're comfortable with" some white and black people believe so. "Wat a cheek, dem think we're weak/meek!" E xclaimed Linto Kwesi Johnson. When did the white people in democratic SA get so comfortable to the extend where as a minority, they deem themselves more worthy of all that is good in the world (including our Afrikan beach)? Were we perhaps too quick to forgive every time we were called names and murdered because of our skin, our hair, our minerals our land etc? What are we to do about this? Explain ourselves some more? No way.
Penny's is still smug about her racist views and she is not alone. She is together with those that that tell us to not access this or other area in our country, those that hate us for the poverty that torments us. She is all the silent white people that denounce racism when we are listening but do nothing about it when they gather in their
Change willingly or painfully but change you shall. We need to stop tolerating racism and accepting empty apologies while life as normal proceeds. This is Afrika, the very place where every black person can call home. He can't be more free anywhere else. Black people need to know and be convinced of this. Others just have to accept it. We are really tired of explaining ourselves.
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Owner RASTA ZIGGY THAEBE Has established a ideal spot with great emphasis on food and music with Pata Pata! Set with a stage for live music and eclectic decor, the cozy restaurant at Main Street Life offers a space to enjoy regular live entertainment with a delicious meal. Pata Pata boasts a full menu of African inspired cuisine as well as daily specials. The menu also offers more simple foods such as burgers, wraps and salads. To learn more, visit: http://www.mabonengprecinct.com/entertain ment/restaurants/pata-pata/
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South African novelist Maruping Phepheng, launches his first anthology of short stories:
Nightfall
The Writers’
BLOCK
and drugs even, one would fter reading Nightfall, the most readily agree with not-easy-to-please poet and Mtileni. academic Moses Mtileni had Launched for the first time this to say: on the 19th of December 2015 in Bloemfontein, the There is an irony about capital city of the Free State nightfall, like a flame flickering in province of South Africa, the book - which derives its the distance. It could be the dying name from a feeling that nightfall should like it used of a fire on an abandoned hearth, to be, be a time when families and friends, even lovers, long after everyone who nurtured gather together around the fireplace, bonding while it and ate from it have gone to sleep reading stories to each another - covers a wide range - fading, death, of everyday lived experiencloss. But it could es - from family feuds, to also be an early crime, to abuse of women night about to be filled with laughter and children, to witchcraft and muti and traditional docand stories and teasing by those to tors, to father/son relationships, to rape, poverty, soon gather anger and pain, humour too. around the fire hope, expectation, Introducing the author of the and promise. book, poet and founder of {Blurb, Nightfall, Bloem Poetry, Serame IceNov. 2015.} bound Makhene took his When one consid- time to labour the point that ers that this collec- “ever since reading his two tion of short stories novels, I do not know of any is a deliberate in- fiction writer whose work is stalment (an offer as cinematic as Phepheng’s. of an alternative if I can remember even the you prefer) into the smallest detail of the thrilling suspense contained in those crucial discourse about people gen- compelling novels.” Iceerally turning their bound was referring to What backs to reading, Happens In Hankaroo… and instead spending a Of Anger and Revenge, Maruping Phepheng’s first great amount of two novels. their free time on television and the internet, alcohol
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The Writers’
BLOCK The Bloemfontein launch was a wonderful celebration attended among others by book lovers, journalists, fellow writers, and the office of the provincial librarian. The latter appeared at the launch mainly to make information available on how writers can get their books purchased in bulk by library services. After-launch drinks with fellow authors and book lovers turned into a spontaneous launch at a night life venue called Street Corner Chisanyama. This was a significant moment because night life venues are generally feared to be hostile to reading and books, yet here we were received warmly, and shown appreciation. Fast forward to the next day, hosted by Lentswe Book Club, Nightfall was launched in a small town of Pampierstad in the North West province. Here book lovers converged to hear the author speak about the book, and about reading and writing in general. Book lovers and members of the club asked a plethora of questions and, most gratifyingly, bought copies of the new book! Published by PEM Media, Nightfall is a literary instrument of fun, of empowerment, of mental exercise and imagination. The stories in the book hope to cause the reader to act in a quest to make ours a better place for our progeny. The book (and Phepheng’s prior work) can be ordered via the following means: Email: ernest.phepheng@gmail.com Facebook Page: Maruping Phepheng Twitter: MP_Author
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nnual Starting Now SA Youth Retreat
What we do: Who we are: Starting Now SA (SNSA) the South African diviStarting Now is a non-profit global network of sion of Starting Now works closely with a chilpeople helping people that exist to aid and bring dren's home based in Yeoville, downtown hope to those who would otherwise have gone Johannesburg. Christ Church Christian Care without. Founded in 2012 by Bibi Sofowote in Centre (5Cees) houses disadvantaged kids Nigeria, Starting Now has since grown exponen- from various backgrounds and offers a tially in its reach to other countries, with primary home of hope, help and healing to the hopeless, ambassadors located in Nigeria, Ghana, the helpless and the homeless. Since its incepUkraine and South Africa. In its quest to pay it tion in 2000 many of the kids have then graduatforward, Starting Now's aim is to help those in ed and gone on to become self-sustainable citizens. 5Cees celebrated its 15th year of minneed through whatever mediums and reistry to destitute children in July 2015 and cursources we have at our disposal. We wish to make a difference in the lives of every individual rently houses 53 children aged 4-18; to whom they provide housing, education, counseling we come across. and hope.
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Now SA head-up the initiative for the camp which took place from Wednesday December 16th to Saturday December 19th 2015 at Ha The Annual Starting Now SA (SNSA) youth Phororo Youth Retreat, Hartebeespoort Dam. retreat takes place every December and has Starting Now SA has a longstanding partnerbeen in effect since 2012 when it initially partship and understanding with Mr Chris Schoenered with Protest Art and SSM Plough Back. As most of the kids do not have extended fami- nenberger the owner and Pastor of the ly to visit over the holidays, we take a group of establishment who's philosophy is to "provide a place for young people who want to spend time them on their own special vacation for the searching for their place in society". Christmas season. Year 2015 saw Starting 5Cees Kidz Kamp 2015
Among some of this year's activities was a visit to the lion cub park, waterfall sightings, a If you would like to get involved with surprise party and an open mic night. SNSA SNSA kindly find our details below: raises funds all year-long in anticipation of the kid’s camp; though hosting a number of events and charity drives. We use social media to generate support and invite volunteers to help out with our cause. Overall, the initiative was a grand success and the children's smiles and tears towards the end made all our efforts and sacrifices worthwhile. How you can help Throughout the year SNSA hosts various events around Johannesburg in support of the annual kids’ retreat, however 2015 proved to be quite challenging in securing everything we needed for the camp. Securing food provisions proved once again a laborious task that demanded hyper-active lobbying from every member and affiliate of SNSA. Given that we had planned to stay a day longer than usual, securing sufficient foodstuffs was a high priority for us. Fortunately enough, we managed to secure what we needed and were unexpectedly given a little more that provided for treats such as ice-cream and cake. Funding for transportation and accommodation as well as the security of primary foodstuffs remains SNSA’s biggest challenge which we aim to remedy in the coming years. We rely on the helping hands and giving hearts of strangers, friends, family and potential sponsors and call upon the help of individuals to aid in any way that they can. We would strongly like to thank all involved with last year's camp with the utmost gratitude and humility and hope that 2016's kid's camp will be bigger and better with your support.
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Help A Stranger Foundation HELP A STRANGER FOUNDATION (#HAS) is a registered South African NonProfit Organization (NPO) the logo we use to define our movement is a picture of Tebogo A.G Kgethe the founder of #HAS and a man who lives in the streets looking at the horizon. This picture gave birth to our LOGO and defined our movement.
established #HAS to formalise everything and to be able to assist more people.
#HAS FOUNDATION does not have corporate sponsorships so we collect clothes, shoes, sanitary towels, school stationery, toys, dolls and non-perishable food and we donate everything to independent charity homes, children-headed homes, vulnerable children and people living in the streets. CHANGING THE WORLD BIT BY BIT! #HAS is our change in th world, Support the #HAS movement, pur"HELP A STRANGER" #HAS and chase merchandise #HAS T-shirts, the foundation was established by a Snap back caps and hoodies. 100% 31 year old Tebogo A.G. Kgethe in of sales are donated to children early 2015. Our management team from underprivileged children in a is Thando Kenneth Lunga (Woza), form of bursaries/scholarships to Lebohang Motsatse, Ian Mungo Repay for their school fees, stationery hman and Sibongile Mofokeng and and educational tours. a host of voluteers who are compassionate about changing the We are passionate about this initiaworld #HAS tive because we love helping peoTebogo A.G. Kgethe has been ple and we believe you don’t have randomly donating since 2008 to be rich in order to assist the next however realised that demand for person (STRANGER) who might be assistance was increasing hence he less fortunate than you are.
Our mission is to lead by example by showing people what simple things they can do to bring HAPPINESS and DIGNITY into the lives of other people who are less fortunate. Anyone who would like to donate may contact Tebogo on +2760 683 2646 OR e-mail info@hasfoundation.co.za OR tebogo.kgethe@gmail.com
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Style and Fashion
The Keng Clothing collection! The name of my collection is: The street of Africa The collection was inspired by fruits and the local business market on the street and the creativity of the market's that give us the style and fashion trend in Africa. We take African fashion to the street to content people together and to build trend in SA, Fashion is one of the biggest mountain in the world everyone wanna be in there on our collection we used African print to show the culture of Africans.
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KENG Clothing
W
hen we look at the culture on
the street is more of fashion and we say everyday is a fashion week because we see different style at all the time we bring the classy vintage and elegance clothing wear Keng Clothing we made this collection we a looking at how we leave as young youth of SA Fashion designers we a going back to the the roots of Africa designing vintage clothes because we believe on the old fashion in a way as we wanna be different on the the street of Africa
Models : Odireleng Molefe and Anza Grace Makeup artist : Koketso Buys Photography : Rally photography Designer: Keng Clothing by Ivan Moumakwe
Nseabasi Photography Concept Please introduce yourself and what is your program?
Your mission is to influence the community in what way?
My name is Nseabasi Akpan, I am a freelance photographer and the Founder of the Nseabasi Photography Concept (NPC), an organization that facilitates art workshops and symposium discussions for artists with an aim to create a platform for them to learn, share their works, interact and network.
My goal is to empower children and youth, and to make photography and its artistic process the catalyst for building self-esteem, discipline, tolerance and respect for others; Restore dignity and hope through our innovative empowerment trainings.
We also, organize free photography training for the children of the juvenile correctional institutions, children in orphanage homes and the physically challenge people who are interested in learning photography and how to use computer technology to edit and upload their images on the Internet for exposure.
â—? Provide opportunities for them to learn new skills enter employment and give them a chance to give back to their community. â—? Empower the youth so that they can be self reliance and contribute to the social economy development. â—? Equip children with more knowledge and sharpen their leadership skills so that they can become an effective and efficient future leader
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Can you please tell about your empowerment project for this year?
potential. They will be encouraged to use techniques learned and experiment with their cameras to continue producing interesting and exciting images. The Juvenile Correctional Institution and Child Care The skill set that will be gained as a result, will allow Unit Ijokodo is located in the ancient city of Ibadan the youngsters to pursue potential career paths that and serves as a detention center for children that utilize photography. have committed delinquent acts. In this institution, youth with a troubled past are trained to become useful members of society. Is there any assistance needed for your program how can others support you? During my visits and one day Photography workWe need financial assistance for equipments like shop themed es We Can in 2015, which was de- Digital Cameras, memory cards signed to introduce the members of the institute to Fuji Disposable Cameras, Computers, Laptop, Phophotography, I discovered that the children begin to to Printer and Hard disks lose confidence after being detained and lack expo- Anyone can support by sponsoring the project or by sure to certain indulgences, which constrain their donating these equipments to make the project a social development. Being away from their parents success. and social activities, most of these children tend to nurture secretive thoughts and feelings about life; What supports your driven purpose? conditions, environment, as well as their dreams for My passion for photography and LOVE for children. the future. I want to organize a three months photography When you began to see your plans and protraining and mentorship program for the children of grams come to fruition, what is next for you? the institute with the theme amera for Change To extend the Nseabasi Photography Concept embecause I believe that by allowing these children the powerment project to other states in Nigeria freedom to use their creativity, it will give them a voice that would otherwise go unheard. What is success to you? And also the Camera for Change project will help The success of an artist cannot be judged by how empower the children, build their confidence, selfmany exhibitions or awards he or she has had. esteem and open a whole new world for them to vi- Rather, by the level of commitment and devotion sualize and create. he/she has given back to the community. A sucAt the end of the training project the children would cessful artist is one who put the less privileged to have learned not only how to take pictures, but will consideration and empowers the needy. be encouraged to dream and recognize their own
Music
E'li
I am E'li born Ojoh Emmanuel Eli on the 24th of July in Lagos from Edo state, Nigeria. I am from a family of three girls and I. My music is eclectic I do afro soul, afro pop, afro rock, afro funk. Just afro beat with influences from other genre. My interest in music started at an early age from listening to music my daddy played on his stereo, and I joined the church choir when I was 7 years old for a few years. I joined the Nigerian film industry called Nollywood writing scripts, editing screen plays and costumier for some film productions. I even had a passing role in a few. My influences in music includes Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Bob Marley, Sade, Seal, Angelique Kidjo, Macy Gray, George Michael, Miriam Makeba, Annie Lennox, Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Whitney Houston, Alanis Morisette, Enya, Anita Baker, Barbara Streisand, R. Kelly, Matchbox Twenty, Bon Jovi, Amy Winehouse, the list is just large. Our house was full of music. I love reading, writing, singing, working out gym,sewing, long walks, movies, checking out old movie scripts online
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Music
The International Flavors of
In 2014 I had the opportunity to cover the annual Felabration curated by Avangarde Vintage Lounge troupe in Soweto, South Afrika. That year headlined Rich Medina (Philladelphia) of JUMP N FUNK to share his musical journey and pay tribute to Fela. 2015 brought us Chris Dusty Doepke (Munich) of Jazz & Milk, I caught up with him on his return home to Germany after 2 weeks of playing in clubs and other venues around South Afrika.
My name is Chris Doepke aka Dusty. I’m a producer, DJ, promoter and label owner based in Munich, Germany. We have just celebrated the 10th anniversary of the label Jazz & Milk which focuses on a pretty much eclectic mixture of traditional genres such as Jazz, Funk, Soul, Afro-beat with modern production techniques and styles such as (Downtempo / Broken) Beats or House music. Where does the journey in this music start?
Tell us who Dusty is.
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I grew up in a small village near Munich. We were a group of friends that started DJ'ing and collecting records together. It started with Hip Hop but soon a few other genres sparked our interest, such as Funk, Jazz, Trip Hop or Break-beats. Later-on I started to produce music by sampling old records and did a few collaborations with musicians playing on top of some tracks. The mixture of both worlds, sampling and live, always fascinated me. My friend Tim Schmitt wanted to design a vinyl record cover as part of his graphic exam in 2005. He knew some of my productions and asked me to finish some songs for a vinyl EP. The result was the “Jazz & Milk EP,” a limited edition of 300 records with silk-screen printed and handfolded cardboard sleeves. A few weeks later a label owner introduced me to his distribution that seemed to be really interested in distributing the EP. Finally, the whole handmade edition was sold to Japan and we had to do a repress for the European and US market. Before I became fully aware of it I had founded my own label. The first record release party then turned out to be the starting point for the club night.
me a lot. Over the years I discovered music from around the world, from percussive Latin rhythms to the poly-rhythmic richness of African music to modern electronic music. All music that has a spiritual and percussive background wakes a lot of interest in me. The variety of influences is utterly important to me since I can’t bear to stick to one certain style all the time. That's not only the case with music. I need changes and variety in my life in order to make experiences and develop myself.
What does music mean to you (back then, throughout time, now)?
Music means love, music means freedom, music means Energy, music means communication! It is a powerful tool that can express so much more than words could ever do. It makes unthinkable dreams come true. The best example is my recent trip to South Afrika. It has always been a dream to visit the continent of Afrika but as much as I love the idea I decided that I would never go there as a random tourist. As a tourist it can be really difficult to experience the essence of a country, get to see the secret and authentic spots of a city and meet the “real” people. But thanks to music I was able to travel the whole world, Who was the influence? instantly got in touch with like-minded and My father always used to listen to jazz re- beautiful human beings, which mostly became good friends. They not only introcords and my uncle Christian Doepke, a professional jazz pianist taught me to play duced me to their countries but also to their mentality, music, food and so much the piano when I was a kid. I was sick of more. And even if you may not speak the classic piano lessons and always wanted same language, we all love and underto learn how to play “Take Five”. This stand music - it is the universal language groove has simply hypnotized me back of mankind. Music has the power to inthen. As a teenager Hip Hop and the stantly connect people of all ages and whole Trip Hop sampling movement (DJ backgrounds! I really enjoy playing long DJ Shadow, Mo' Wax, Ninja Tune etc...) besets - it’s like telling a story and reflecting came interesting and I started DJing but never lost the interest in Jazz music. In the my musical background. I simply couldn’t beginning, I listened to groovier Jazz acts think of a better way to express myself and connect with people than through music! such as "Cannonball Adderley" or "Idris Muhammad". Later it was names like "Ahmad Jamal", or ”Yusef Lateef" that inspired
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One thing that struck me when I met and observed you was your sense of excitement about all this (music and what it can do), the fact that it brought you to Afrika was very critical to you. Does being in Afrika (South Afrika in particular) alter the way you now listen and experience Afrikan (South Afrikan) music? I’ve always been a fan of South Africa’s great jazz heritage and heard that house music pretty much dominates the scene in SA these days. I love both genres but in fact my DJ sets can range from Jazz, Soul, Disco, Dub, Latin, Afro-beat to Hip Hop, Broken beat and House music. I had no clue what to expect or how my eclectic sets would be accepted in South Africa. But luckily I received a lot of positive reactions throughout my performances and felt very happy about that. Also I felt very lucky that my friends of AGVL hosted my trip and organized fantastic gigs, which allowed me to do what I do in front of a very open-minded crowd. I was definitely also surprised by the great amount of amazing DJs and live bands I got to hear during my South African tour. Although I wouldn’t say that I heard music in clubs I’ve never heard before I still noticed a very unique and subtle musical flavor which I always associated with South Africa. I’d describe it as very soulful, smooth and yet very rhythmic and danceable. I like the fact that jazzy chords, soulful singing and percussion still seem to be an integral part of SA’s modern music productions. I think that South Africans have the great talent to add their very own distinctive sound and flavor to music which makes almost every genre they touch a beautiful new sub-genre on its own. But I think the greatest thing on this tour was probably the social experience connected to music. I talked to so many people during my shows and was overwhelmed to experience so much love and positive vibes. Most of the events felt like a gathering of music lovers who do research on the artists performing and try to find out more about their musical vision by just approaching them. But of course I can only refer to the events curated by AGVL during my two weeks stay. They are definitely doing a great job trying to combine the musical experience with live painting, good food and a lot of social interaction. So whenever I reminisce about my tour and South Africa in general I instantly think about the beautiful people I have met and all the passion, energy and social interaction when it comes to music, which impressed me a lot. The republic is definitely breathing and living music – always with a smile!
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2. You were thrust right in the centre of South Afrikan club experience through your association with AGVL. If you were to advice a South Afrikan Art-Party ready for a night out in Munich, what would you tell them? (Having operated at the high level in both ours and your scene, from a DJ/producer/promoter, what did you have to learn quickly?) What I’ve learned over the years performing in different countries and on different continents - although the local taste in music or the reaction of the crowd might differ a bit from one place to another - a great event is mostly only as good as the passionate work of a local promoter. You can play in a huge club in front of hundreds of people but nevertheless it can easily turn out to be an impersonal experience. In the worst case the crowd only wants to hear commercial stuff or something they are used to. But performing at a night club hosted by a promoter who’s very serious about the quality of music, the bookings, the sound system, the surroundings and who managed to attract a strong following of open-minded music lovers over the years is simply invaluable and really allows an artist to fully express himself musically. My advice: whenever you visit a different city make sure to not only do research on the most famous clubs but primarily check out what the local scene, its artists, promoters and small labels have to offer. You might end up at amazing (underground) parties talking to interesting, creative people you wouldn’t have met. Actually that’s how I met KsK of AGVL many years ago in Munich. During a visit, he did some research on the local music scene, found out that Jazz & Milk is based in Munich and simply got in touch. Today we are performing in each other’s countries and became good friends. My advice to a South African artist coming to Munich or rather to any artist performing internationally: authenticity! Only authenticity allows you to feel comfortable yourself and to be respected by others. Just play the music you love, the music that shaped the artist you are today and which represents your past and origin. Only that way are you able to offer something authentic and interesting to a crowd abroad. Booking an international DJ that plays the very same music most local DJs play or who adapts his style to match the local taste, just doesn’t make sense. As much as South Africans told me that they would absolutely enjoy to hear me playing different music their not used to hear in clubs; Germans would love to hear a South African artist perform ‘his‘ music instead of someone who tries to adapt to the German or European style too much, we know it already.
“Only authenticity allows you to feel comfortable yourself and to be respected by others.”
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3. What is the latest from Jazz & Milk, what of a compilation called “Brasil Africano” comcan we expect? Where do we get updated piled by Tahira from São Paulo. This compilation will focus on the indigenous music of on your movements? Brazil with its distinctive African influence including recordings from the 70s until today. The next release on Jazz & Milk will be the debut album of my good friend Sam Irl from For those who would like to receive regular Vienna. It will be out on March 25 on 2LP viupdates on the label please subscribe to our nyl and digital. By the way, I noticed that mailing list at our website South Africans reacted very enthusiastic www.jazzandmilk.com or follow us at Soundwhenever I played one of Sam Irl’s tracks in Cloud, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram > #jazmy sets. Make sure to follow him at zandmilk. Your support is much appreciated! www.soundcloud.com/sam-irl or www.facebook.com/samirlmusic . At the moment I’m also planning the release
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Music
61 Photographer Ayanda Zungu, Makeup by Samantha Carter and Jewellery by Palesa
Luanga Choba: The voice of homegrown gonzo soul With a self-penned independent debut album under her belt, bagging two South African Traditional Music Awards nominations, South African singer-songwriter Luanga Choba has announced herself as a musical force to be reckoned with. Luanga calls her distinctive sound “gonzo soul” – earthy world music infused with eclectic Afropolitan musical influences, sung mainly in her home language, Setswana. She is passionate about promoting mother-tongue literacy, believing that the country’s lower-profile vernacular languages should be afforded greater status and prominence.
“I believe that songs are gifted to me, and that my job is merely to refine and work on them.”
This independent artist, whose real name is Sibongile Mhlongo, chose the stage name “luanga” because it means “the charm is yours” in Zambia’s Chikunda language. The Kimberley-born songstress showed early musical promise when she was named runner-up in the popular talentsearch TV program Shell Road to Fame. She took a lengthy sabbatical from the industry while studying medicine at the University of Cape Town and then practising in the United Kingdom. But the irresistible siren’s call of music – her first love – kept beckoning. In 2012, Luanga took the plunge and gave up medicine to follow her true passion: writing, recording and performing music that heals and transforms. She released her debut album, Luanga Who?, in 2013, earning two SATMA nominations (for Best Female Artist and Best Afro-soul Album). Determined to forge her own sound and identity as an indie artist, Luanga formed her own record label, Xhimvani Records and Publishing. She has since performed across the country and had one of her tracks, Nxae (meaning “sorry”), featured on the IStart 2 compiliation album, promoting sustainability through the arts. An ode to Mother Earth, the song offers a heartfelt apology for the damage inflicted by mankind. Tracks from Luango Who? have been playlisted on local stations Motsweding FM, SAFM and Power FM (where the song Maparego reached number 13 on its weekly chart), as well as on Gabz FM and Duma FM in Botswana. Her music has also been featured on diaspora programmes on United States stations such as WVKR 91.3 in New York, KALW Public Radio in San Francisco and Wort Community Radio in Madison, Wisconsin. Luanga has since returned to medicine part-time, working in the public health sector to give her the flexibility and freedom to create. “I am extremely privileged,” says Luanga, “because I don’t need music to live. This means I can be as extravagantly creative as I want to be. It allows me to express myself authentically, as opposed to being forced to commercialise one’s sound just to push product sales. Not to mention it is, by default, a rewarding profession. Music then becomes the passion and medicine, the calling.”
She adds: “I believe that songs are gifted to me, and that my job is merely to refine and work on them. I strongly believe I am being guided to them by a higher power: that the songs come through me, but are not of me. Like my children, I need to guide, nurture and protect them.” Luanga is currently in pre-production with her follow-up release, which she promises will venture “further into gonzo – and into my authenticity”. Expect more fresh, honest, earthy sounds that speak eloquently to the mind and burrow deeply into the soul. “Luanga Choba’s music is fresh and daring in its originality. She is definitely not a follower!” – Richard Nwamba, The African Connection, SAFM Luanga Choba links: iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/luanga-who/id707609485 Website: www.luangachoba.co.za Facebook: Luanga Choba Twitter: @LuangaC
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Ten Stories #tenstoriesza came to life after a conversation between me and a friend about our past and how we ended up in Jozi. We spent almost three hours talking about our lives and as I make way home after that meet up, it dawned on me that beyond our stories there's millions of other stories out there. Soon after I decided to ask ten people to write their stories for me to post them on my account; and I was only going to do ten stories then move on to other things but I realized that the stories could continue and we can just have themes or topics. So why did I ask people to participate in this series? We go through a LOT as people and sometimes we don't realize how much there is to learn from each other as people so hopefully through these stories people can learn, be inspired, gain hope and have faith in their own paths. And hopefully the very people writing and sharing their stories will get to reflect on how far they've come in their own journeys and gather strength to pull even harder towards their goals. There's still SO much we want to cover through the #TenStories series, so hopefully as we continue more people will before willing to share their own stories.
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Innocentia (IG: roquesque) I think in January of 2011 I experienced a conscious and physical out of body experience, where I was still conscious and aware of myself but it felt like I was a shell merely existing because I couldn’t be otherwise. I was writhing with emotional pain, disbelief and so much anger towards my sons’ father, over his betrayal and over the young girl who had destroyed my piece of heaven. It created a void deep within me, like an emptiness had created itself and I had all but given up on living…just merely existing. I made a tragic note of those, lugging what didn’t feel like my own feet down what seemed me. Only I as a mother could affect endless roads between Noord all the way to Newtown, Mary Fitzger- my Childs joy or lack of. I was told that kids from broken homes did ald Square. not turn out badly because the A friend had invited me for iced cof- home was broken, they did so befee, on finding out about this brutal cause the parent left to hold that home together was broken. Mothbreak up and felt I needed to be around a friend. Another gentleman ers feed their bitterness to their joined us and because my biggest children, infecting their minds and worry was how my son was acting brewing in them the same bitterness that plays out in other negaout at his dad’s sudden absence and how he would grow up coming tive ways. Children end up from a broken home, they set out to becoming a nuisance to society, alcoholics, laming themselves for offer me relief I had never considered. I was so blinded by the pain I their parents’ absenteeism and all could not see past it and it spiraled sorts of other negative implications. I had it in me to stop that… into negativity at every turn where
cause I first had to let go and understand that whatever the father had decided was not my fault, nor my child. His shortcomings could not end up being our problem. I think with that though in mind, I slowly began to work on those ideals, my son stopped acting out and we surely got to a point where this man was no longer a factor… and I’m going to say yet because it’s a long life, we do not know what will happen ahead. What we know is that the foundations we lay right now need to get us to a better place years from now. It was the simplest lesson, yet it brought us much needed calm. doom seemed the only outcome for my son and I. “Do you realise chil- Just raise your child off of positivity, I have since never given up on letlet him see his mother love, laugh, ting my son see better, and a genudren feed off our energy?” I think ine better because I believe we are my mom had said something simi- live and strive to have a great and positive life and they will know that soooo worth it and it fills me with lar regarding breastfeeding, that if a that is what life is about with or elation knowing that I can continue woman breastfed with pain in her without dad. Avoid talking about the giving 100% of myself to ensure heart, it infected the child, causing father bitterly if at all, and should that he grows up much better than the infant to always cry. I guess it they ask be as honest and unbiour circumstances. made it easier for me to be open to ased as possible. Of course it what these two people were telling wasn’t an instantly easy feat be-
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women. I desire to create a lineage of women who are waking up the planet. I desire to leave every person I come into contact with more liberated than before we met. My aim is to ensure women are sexually liberated and empowered to satisfy their desires and create a better understanding of sex in the modern day world. The ultimate goal is to provoke conversations about human sexuality that are not conducted in hushed whispers. The discussion of sex should be common place. Censorship perpetuates shame which in turn fosters ignorance. I'm fortunate to have parents who started the conversation of sex at puberty. The conversation continues today. Now I am very aware that this is not common place. Especially for black parents. I was told of the danJade (IG: jiggyjade) gers and consequences of sexually transmitted dis"We can no longer, as a nation, afford to turn a blind ease. Unplanned pregnancies that were on the rise eye to the consequences of sex or lack thereof. Un- at the time, how masturbation in the comfort of my room every now and then was a healthy and normal fulfilling sex lives contribute a large deal to broken marriages. The high rate of HIV/AIDS related deaths part of growing up. I was taught to ask questions about anything I was uncertain of whether it be about of our people cannot be denied and should not be ignored. Population explosion , unplanned pregnan- sex or geography. Various studies that have been conducted show that children with whom sex is discies and tribal customs are the stereotypes that are impeding South Africa's growth. We are becoming a cussed often choose to wait until after their teens to welfare state with a generation of offspring that lack engage in partner sex. I am an example of this theosocial equalities to be free thinkers and develop the ry. I waited until I was twenty three. I made the decinecessary skills to advance the country. Sadly, edu- sion and discussed it with my mother who then sent me to a gynecologist for a consultation. My experication is lacking in the context of development and ence and one even more informed should be comsocial skills as well as sex education for safe sex mon place for all contemplating sex. I want to make and planned parenthood." this possible by igniting the necessary conversation Meaning your story will now read like this; "My purpose is sexual liberation. I don't believe anyone has between parent and child. Teachers and students." experienced true freedom until they are sexually liberated. I want to liberate especially the nation's Xolisile A. Kondlo Many people have asked me how do I cope with a 'condition' like me. Sometimes I waffle some incoherent reply and end up laughing. The truth is I had ample time opportunity to think about my life, about my 'condition'. I'm consoled about the fact that, I am still alive despite the many chances I had to be otherwise!! Every time I get sick, the memory of be-
ing healthy, of being able to run in the soccer field, of being able to bowl at a speed of 117km/h an over far outweighs my 'condition'. Every time I seem to be losing my breath, I think of standing in the rain, kicking the water with my barefoot. Memory is a good thing. When everything fails me, when the nebulizer takes time to get into my lungs, I think about the time God made me a participant in His plan. I AM A CATHOLIC PRIEST! I do not recall EVER being sick. I matriculated in 1997, went to varsity for 4years. Thereafter, I went to study for Catholic
Priesthood, which is 7years. My health was never compromised in any way. In fact, it was very protected. I have been to hospital (staying over 5 days each) over 21 times since 2012. I was diagnosed with Interstitial Pneumonitis. My own immune system is attacking my lungs. The only permanent solution is to have a lung transplant. I have been on the waiting list since April this year. The average waiting period is 3 years. They have about 17-19 Lung Transplants, EACH YEAR! I'm retired, at the age of 37yrs! I'm housebound. I'm on the oxygen machine, 24/7. I remain op-
Where do I even begin? Firstly, there is nothing abnormal about being raised by a single parent and you are a beautiful example of that. God has blessed you with wonderful family of strong women and a generation of women who by now are ancestors who have loved you long before you were born, and I know that you will be surrounded by the safety of their love and compassion for the rest of your life. This is a world in which people can often give in to the pressures of society and their peers, and it can often happen without us even realizing. Do not ever be afraid to be yourself, the African girl that I’ve raised ngwanaka (my child), because there is only one of you on this planet; you are amazing just as you are, so never be afraid to be you. Understand the dynamics of family, friends, culture, community, country and the world. If you can’t be patient and understanding to your family, you will have challenges relating the world around you. The joy of giving and sharing is a cumulative one, the more hearts you touch, the more love comes right back at you. Be adventurous and free-spirited but stay grounded. Growing up, understand that you will be raised in separate loving households; and although values, cultures and a way of life may vary I believe that will be a benefit and strength to your upbringing. I want you to know that it’s also okay to be angry or deeply remember the day I found out I was preg- sad, because emotions are part of who we are; what’s important is to never allow yournant with you, I was overwhelmed with so much emotion but mostly I was terrified as self to be consumed fully by those emoyour father and I were no longer togeth- tions. In ten to fifteen years from now, when you er. At times such news can be underwhelming to the next person, especially read and understand these words, I pray that we will be so close that you will be when the news are of the good-thing-unreading the words aloud to me as I plait der-bad-circumstances. I took a deep your hair or paint your nails. If I’m half the breath and asked God to take over from woman my mother is then I’d have done a here on because my choice was to raise good raising you. you as a gift that you are to me; gift from Ke a go rata, and you are always in my God…DINEO. heart. As I sit here I find my mind to be a complete jumble of things I’d like to tell you the three year old but also future teenager.
I
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Neo Masilo (IG: neocentiia) I am journeying well. I write for women who have been sexually abused and don't know how to pick up the pieces. Two years ago, I spoke out about my traumatic encounter with a man who violated my right to say no and broke a part of me that I'm fighting to heal every waking day. What followed were countless court appearances; where I'd have to see him and have to re-live the hurt, speak my truths and have them picked at and scrutinized and twisted around to suit his arguments. You see, I had to go through all of it in order for my soul to come together and heal, for my being to remember it's strength and more importantly, to fall in love with myself all over again. When someone makes an attempt at your life and violates you in this way, they temporarily paralyze your peace, you start to question your relationship with self and with God. You start to look at men differently and feel the need to protect yourself in so many ways: emotionally, physically and spiritually. I'm lucky in that I was surrounded by amazing men when all of this happened, men who didn't change or start treating me differently. My biggest fear after speaking out was losing my "sex appeal" and being in a solid relationship with someone who wouldn't know how to love me and be with me, broken as I was. Fast forward 2 years, I'm a mother to a beautiful baby girl and I will instill a great sense of self love and strength in her, I'm about to marry an amazing man who sat through my trial and watched me rip open my wounds and tell my story all over again in the presence of my rapist. A man who knew and understood that all I'd need after that was a glass of wine (read bottle) and great laughs. See it's
not that I don't deal with it, it's just that, what happened to me doesn't make me the woman I am, it's simply a part of my story and journey. I am an incredible, oceanic woman, I understand and have come to realize that nothing was taken from me, I didn't allow this part of my journey to break me and ruin me, it just made me a lot stronger than I ever thought I was. I am a better woman because I grew closer to a whole lot of women after I spoke out, women I drew strength from and who drew strength from me. 2 for 2: If I can change or touch 1 woman's life, I will have done the world a whole lot of good. If I can remove 1 rapist from these streets, I will be saving a lot of women from abuse and I'll be sending a message to men who rape that it will not be tolerated. My name is Neo Masilo and this is my story.
Thabang (IG: immortalthabang)
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"Growing up without my dad, fitted the perceived norm of the absent, deadbeat and dysfunctional Afrikan father. When Maisha came I was scared of the enormous responsibility ahead of me, that I might let her down. But I realised I'm not that man, I could have a different story. A story that I can look back and be proud of. This is why I have #fatherhoodfriday, to document my journey through fatherhood and to encourage other Afrikan brothers to show the world we are a generation that's doing the right thing for our kids. To me being a dad means being the best version of myself. For Maisha what she sees is what she does/becomes, any sort of dysfunction and she'll be sure to follow suit. On the other hand if I raise the level that I live, raise my standards, when she grows up she won't be settling for less than the high standards she sees at home. So it starts with me being the very best version of myself, loving my wife the best way I can, and where I'm Maisha’s Superman, ever present, always there to support her no matter what. #maisha"
feel enough (Hey, do you feel I’m enough?). Sometimes really don’t care how you feel. I feel Every time I’m asked “so how like I care too much. I feel you you feeling?” should too. I feel like I waste I really want to say “I feel like time. I feel like I’m wasting your every first draft of every poem time (hey, do feel like your time I’ve ever read. I feel like rejecbeing wasted?). I feel like I retion. I feel like water, breaking peat things. I feel like the Lord’s but forever running. I feel like Prayer. I feel like the zinc roof of lunch breaks between wars. I church in October. I feel like you feel like food. I feel part whole, shouldn’t have asked me how I part missing. I feel like love lost. feel in the first place because I I feel love will never return. I feel too much. I sometimes feel sometimes feel like never return- nothing at all, I do this thing, ing. No matter how woke I try to where I take all my rainstorms be, I feel tired. I feel the split and puddles of emotions and ends of a rain dance. I feel like neatly tug them under the PerBonita Apple bum. I feel like I sian rugs behind my ears, on top talk too much. I feel like I don’t of my marble lungs, in between say enough. I sometimes don’t the corridors of my lashes. I liter-
Liziwe (IG: mamthug)
Bafana (IG: bafanaq)
ally “drop box” them everywhere in my body but they somehow never look good on the floors of my tongue. For the longest time I blamed my mother for this. She argued never in words but in silence. She too did this tugging thing I speak off.” But usually default to “I’m good. How are you feeling?” We all do this. We ready our ugly and leave our soft behind because these ‘’feels” are not welcomed here.
My Name is Liziwe and I feel too much.
different. There was no come back or any ‘return of the dragon’ on this one. Numb. For this “unsuccessful” meant that my father was no more. The nurse with the motion-shy lips tapped me on the shoulder and her lips danced again. “I am so sorry, sir.”
Somehow I knew that what she had mumbled to the other lady was a question and this question was about me. She confirmed my suspicions when she pointed at me. She turned and started walking toward me. Silent movement as though the hard tiles at her soles were a complete lie. I felt I should meet her halfway but I did not. Besides, standing still felt She turned and walked away. just after the amount of pacing I had been doing just End. before the room went quiet. She greeted and that’s when I noticed her mouth. There was something lop-sided about it. Yes, her lips. Thin. Not you typical lips. Even though the thinner upper lip moved more than then lower one, it appeared as though the edges were not moving at all. At that moment, it was the irregularity that drew my eyes to them and no thought was given to how this might appear ill mannered or if she would notice. Somehow the actual lip movement did not match the words coming from her. As though each word was carefully selected and it, through it own means, had to wiggle its way out to be heard. So I listened. The words fought through her and I could hear, “We were unsuccessful” A simple sentence really. I have heard it before on more than one occasion. In most of those instances, it would be met by my stubbornness as I brush it aside and set myself to get around it. But this was
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bona / b么na/ verb observe, behold, see pono / p么n么/ noun sight, view
www.facebook.com/ BonaPono
matete.motsoaledi@bonapono.com www.bonapono.com
When those that have seen further say that boundaries are self imposed, believe them. It is all in your mind. The tools needed for survival and the poison that's killing your dreams are all in your head. So it is really about which you let dominate. Sure, there are external factors that tend to have a bearing on life's paths. There are also those which we have no control over, like which family we're born into, what physical abilities we have etc. Despite all these, our dreams still need to be big and someday, real. I learned a few lessons about dreaming big, it is a necessity for all those that want to live an exciting life. These dreams are magnets that pull us from this end to that end. For as long as I live, I will keep upgrading all my dreams to epic status and spend my life chasing them. I am creating Bona Pono, a creative incubator for all my individual and collaborative efforts.
It is through these exchanges of these critical moments that wisdom is imparted, character is built, self is evaluated, eyes are open, consciousness is awakened... What we experience either firsthand or through someone else's perspective, is a stroke of the hammer chiseling our character. We are built by these experiences. I currently live in the semi rural mining town of Kriel in Mpumalanga. Many view this as a dead town away from "civilisation". They will do anything to move to the cities of Joburg, Tshwane and others, so that they can access the market or resources. Often, the power of social media is undermined when it comes to bridging gaps among people.
For me, the whole world is within reach at any time of the day. Networking globally is critical to expanding one's influence and also to be influenced by others. We then discover that despite all perceived differBona Pono means "See/behold a vision" in ences, we are much more similar than we Sepedi. So far, the brand is known for had initially thought. The cultural distance photography but the dream is much bigger between us is actually a minor mental than that. I sought to share my perspective boundary. I have achieved much more on how I experience people, situations and through collaborating with those I network places I have been to and encountered. with than I ever could have done alone. Through photography, through poetry and The greatest part of it is working with peomusic, I have been telling these stories. ple that are on the same stage in life, drivWe remember life as moments. We some ing their passions with the same vigour as I how manage to sift through all the worldly am. Our crafts create an opportunity to get clutter to pick those critical moments, save to know each other and express ourselves them and discard the rest. When we think either to better our societies (or us as indiback, we recall only those memories we viduals) or to activate the senses. It has saved. I remember my earlier life that way. been an amazing and exciting journey that, I grew up in a village and township at the I realised, is much better travelled with same time. I was home yet away from companions. I am learning and hope to home. I travelled and lived in different plac- share those lessons on how to remove the es, alone and with others. I met a lot of dif- limits that prevented me from reaching my ferent people, who shared their critical dreams. I am giving and receiving what I moments with me and had a glimpse of and you have to offer. mine. They spoke different languages, had varied cultures and beliefs. They smiled Together we save each other from and cried like all of us. I remember all wasting our lives and talents away. We these about my earlier days. I'm still doing make those megadreams real. What better all of these now more than ever. life to live than the one you dreamed of?
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