XS10 Magazine - November 2021

FOUNDER Michael Neely CEO Rasheed J. Neely EDITORS Aidem Media Group design&print B & S Designs Digital Marketing GRAPHICS design&print

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael Neely David R. Navarro Misty White Addison Coleman Sherry Nelson Bruce Glasgow Eileen Shapiro Jimmy Star

COPYRIGHTS XS10 Magazine is sole property of AidemMediaGroup/AMGmusic.Net. Which is owned by Michael Neely and any articles and pictures are sole property of XS10 Magazine and any likeness. XS10 Magazine has been copyrighting since 2012.

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Letter from The Editor

Dear Reader, It is an absolute pleasure to welcome you to XS10 Magazine as we start our 8th year of publication. This year brings about changes, as our founder and visionary, Michael Neely of XS10 Magazine being the Editor-in-Chief.

While the core of Xs10Magazine is the same, Staff and I are not—with this, you may see Xs10magazine change a little. We will be centering each individual print magazine around a theme: Tradition (issue seven), Identity (issue eight), Resistance (issue nine), and finally Metamorphosis (issue ten). We hope you will still be loyal readers and will welcome the changes to come; and are so thankful you are here reading now.

Xs10Magazine is a hybrid, sexy, urban lifestyle and consumer magazine. We present a unique blend of entertainment news from around the globe.

Xs10Magazine embodies a unique combination of edgy articles that feature a wide coverage of Music, Film and Fashion: A-list celebrities, promising newcomers, sports figures, new technologies, fashion, politics, sex, health, and travel.

The origin and intentionality behind our name, Xs10Magazine, is simple: “Xs10” means you have too work twice as hard to get to where you need to be and view or perspective. We are glade in sharing the views, perspectives, and stories of People around the world.

Our mission is to bring the Entertainment community thoughtful and engaging commentary on political and social issues, to our readers .

As a publication, we do not advocate for any specific political ideology, but we have set standards regarding the posting of harmful and denigrating pieces as it relates to minority groups. We see our platform as a sacred space of people voices, and thus, view that it is our responsibility to highlight the diversity on Xs10magazine and to use our platform as a space of learning and education and diversity. Our intention is to host a platform for writers to share their political opinions, faith stories, and creative works. That is why we exist. The freedom of speech, however, does not mean the freedom of hate speech.

We would like to be as transparent as possible. For this reason, we gladly welcome any comments and critiques you may have as a reader. Letters to the editor are also highly encouraged and will be considered for publication on our website or in print.

I am elated to be furthering the mission of Xs10 and to hear your stories.

Cheers, Michael Neely, Founder & Editor-in-Chief AMG Entertainment Network

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design&print Page 17 // Cover Feature Table of Contents Page 4 Sarah Ureta

Page 14 Rob Jankowski

Page 26 Luka James

Page 7 Jody Watley

Page 17

Page 29 American Rappers

Page 9 Johnny Britt Page 12 Ryan Cassata

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Elvira, Mistress of the Dark aka Cassandra Peterson Page 23 Homer Marrs

Page 34 Mama! There Goes The Band

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Our television channels are AMG Entertainment Network™ Conversations, where we sit down with the movers and shakers of todays’ entertainment, business, and technology industries, AMG Entertainment Network™ Music, showcasing music videos of all genres by independent artists, and AMG Entertainment Network™ Films, offering a wide variety of filmed content from independent filmmakers.

Our magazines are, Xs10 Magazine™ which is a hybrid lifestyle and consumer magazine presenting a unique blend of entertainment news from around the globe with exclusive articles that cover a variety of topics including music, film, fashion, technology, sports, health, and travel from A-list celebrities, promising newcomers, and sports figures. The Orange Magazine™ that introduces influencers, “The Fruit of The Industry” in music. Our focus is to share the stories of many of todays’ up and coming artists from around the world in an engaging way.

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SARAH URETA Acting on a Dream When did you first get involved in the film industry?

I got started on the set if Night shift in 2015.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career as an actor?

There was never really a specific reason other than a friend got me on set of Night Shift and I really loved being part of the production. I grew to love the industry.

That has turned into a real passion of mine that I get to continue to enjoy and explore.

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How has your acting evolved since you first became involved in the industry?

I started out doing background work and stand in work.

As I did more productions I became really good in many areas of movie production. My growth in these areas has led me into many amazing opportunities as

my reputation has developed. A great example is my last film production I landed the lead role because of knowing the AD and doing work with many involved that they already knew what I could do. That got me on set and I stepped perfectly into that role.

I’m sure you have met a lot of celebrities/fellow actors along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

One of my favorite experiences was when I was opposite Tom Hanks as a Stand-in role on News of the World.

What a really nice person and so very down to earth.

I also loved working on the set of WACO which was a Paramount production. I got to work close with John Leguizamo he was great to work with. He

would take time to really interact with all of us on set and bring humor to the set. Another inspiration to me in wanting to grow in this industry.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

My creativeness to think outside the box and bring an authenticity to my role. I research my roles in depth and make sure I stand out as I bring a character to life.

What projects are you currently working on... that you can talk about?

The last production was the movie Stampede directed by David Rambaldi where I play the lead role in the Character Michelle who finds herself on an adventure of a life time in the hard west. It was a great speaking role for me that allowed me to do my own stunts and even learned how to ride a horse for the role. Was a great experience.

How long have you been modeling and how do you think it has prepared you for your acting career?

I have modeled off and on professionally for the past 20yrs.

I feel like in modeling I have been acting in a shoot.

In a modeling shoot you have to tell a story with one picture. I have always been told that I am I natural at what I do and can drop into character within a few shots. This creates an image that is believable and creates the art the artist is looking to create.

The director of a film has a vision and as I look at how the script is written it can allow me to understand what’s wanted and bring that character to life. My job is helping turn the director’s vision into a believable reality.

What is it that you enjoy most about modeling?

I love that modeling gives me a chance to express myself and think outside the box. I get to push creative boundaries and come up with something unique that is not being done.

What’s next for you?

I am continuing to grow as an actress. I want to explore more new opportunities in my favorite genre of Horror I am really good in these rolls i am also used for many westerns due to my look. I am open to exploring new opportunities that fit my abilities to further create and grow in my art.

How can fans-to-be follow your career?

Intagram is @ziggy14 Photos by @patrickbaldonadophotography

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Listen to Bailey Elora’s new single: “DRUNK RN” https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/baileyelora/drunk-rn-feat-broth3r Available everywhere music is heard!

Bailey Elora https://linktr.ee/baileyelora Photo of Bailey Elora by Ricky Zastrow @coloradophotoworks

JODY WATLEY Releases Alex Di Ciò Dance/Club Remixes Talks About New Dance/Club Remix Album, Her Creative Process and Social Media

are songs worthy to be given a fresh listen by those who may have missed them.

JODY WATLEY recently dropped a special collection of Alex Di Ciò Dance/Club remixes. Alex Di Ciò is a world renowned producer, songwriter, and remixer.

Inspired by the art of Shawn West and remixes by Alex Di Ciò, Renderings, the mini collection of dance mixes is now globally available on all social media platforms via the Avitone Recordings label imprint.

Following up on recent critically acclaimed releases, “The Healing,” and the Top 5 UK Soul release, “Winter Nights EP”, Jody Watley brings on “Renderings EP” – The Alex Di Ciò Remixes, a collection of uplifting songs penned by Watley and longtime collaborator Rodney Lee. Jody Watley, the Grammy-winning, trendsetting pioneer in music, video, and fashion new dance remix album entitled, Renderings includes the anthem, Not A Single Day Goes By. The highly-anticipated lbum also includes remixes of popular songs from critically acclaimed electro soul collections “The Makeover” and “Midnight Lounge” - these

XS10 Magazine caught up with the innovative music maker, Jody Watley and she talked with us about her new project, Renderings.

Can you share with us about the creative process behind your latest album?

JW: One of the definitions of a rendering is an interpretation or translation of art - that’s what I thought about as I listened to Alex’s mixes that he was inspired to do on songs from my songs such as The Makeover and Midnight Lounge projects as looking at the art Shawn did for Instagram which I immediately thought would be a cool piece of music artwork in a cover.

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Is this your first time working with Alex Di Ciò?

JW: No - Alex has contributed to all of my recent Top 5 U.K. Soul Chart releases.

What are your thoughts about social media?

JW: What I realize about being on social media is that people discover and rediscover things all the time – something is always new to someone seeing or hearing anything for the first time. It’s also important to continue to be inspired and it may come in the most unexpected ways and sources.

Can you share with us about your new anthem, Not A Single Day Goes By? JW: The new anthem, Not A Single Day Goes By featuring Levi Seacer formerly of Prince’s NPG had been on my mind with so much loss of life and it being a song in remembrance of those who are no longer with us, sent to Alex to put his touch on it – so here we are!

You can connect with Jody Watley on all her social media platforms: @jodywatley “Renderings” by Jody Watley is now available on all digital platforms!

Chick here and take a listen to Jody Watley’s latest anthem, Not A Single Day Goes By

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JOHNNY BRITT Legendary Singer & Trumpet Player Johnny Britt Releases Much-Anticipated Timely Song, ‘Peace Officer’ ft. Malcolm Jamal Warner Johnny Britt has done it again!

The moment Johnny Britt fans have been waiting for is finally here: The legendary singer and trumpet player has released his timely and much-anticipated song, “Peace Officer.”

The socially conscious anthem song, featuring Malcolm Jamal Warner is written, produced, arranged, mixed and performed by Johnny Britt.

With civil unrest in the nation and all over the world, Britt has written a song for this moment in history.

In these unprecedented times of police shootings and injustice, Johnny looks through the eyes of the police officer behind the trigger...

Joined by Emmy-nominated, spoken word artist, and actor, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Johnny and Malcolm have collaborated on a timeless classic in “Peace Officer.” Also on the track, Britt is joined by Marcus Williams on drums, Dean Mark on bass, and Keith Henderson on guitar.

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The poignant and must-watch, “Peace Officer,” music video was performed, edited, and recorded by Johnny Britt with additional editing from Floyd Webb (Visual Thinker) in Chicago.

Consistently dropping music with incredible arrangements and fresh melodies that can satisfy all musical palates, Johnny Britt continues to serve his fan base through his multi-song repertoire released under his label, J-Jams Records.

Johnny Britt is the founder of the Motown/MoJazz group, Impromp2 and continues to establish himself as a musical voice. With 3 hit singles this year, “MoJazzin” ft. Norman Brown (#1 Mediabase), “The Way I Feel” ft. Marion Meadows, and “Let’s Get Down Tonight,” which has acquired over 2 million radio listeners weekly. His latest Jazz release, “Good Feelin” is ‘Most Added’ on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart and is ascending rapidly.

With a global career that spans over 30 years, Johnny Britt is one of the most versatile and beloved talents of our time.

He also hosts the popular weekly radio show called, “The Turntable Radio Show with Johnny Britt on Solar Radio airing nationwide on Sundays from 4 pm to 6 pm (PST). The show features award winning artists such as George Benson, Peabo Bryson, Na jee, Will Downing and many more. Listen live at www.solarradio.com For all things Johnny Britt visit: www.JohnnyBritt.com Follow him on social media @JohnnyBritt Click here to watch “Peace Officer” by Johnny Britt

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RYAN CASSATA “Magic Miracle Mile” by Addison Coleman Sometimes the route to joy is indirect. A journey not quite as we expected. There is no magic star to guide our steps, no ancient prophecies to predict our way. The greatest gift is to know that we travel not alone but in the company of others. There are hands we can reach for and hearts to keep us warm.

Singer/song writer, actor, producer and award winning advocate Ryan Cassata has had an unusual journey on the road to stardom. As an openly transgender performer Ryan has faced many challenges, but has managed to successfully come out triumphant. With over 600 hundred performances worldwide Ryan excels in and accomplishes everything he sets out to do in a very magical way.

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He is proud to be recognized as the first openly transgender at the Vans Warped Tour and has been featured at Jazz at Lincoln Center, and at the biggest Pride festivals on the planet. Ryan has been celebrated by Billboard Magazine as a “True force in the industry”, and Logo’s New Next and a Now included him on the “9 trans musicians you need to get into” list. His music has been featured on Sirius XM Radio, BBC Radio 4, and others globally. He is also the recipient of the ASCAP foundation 2019 Mariana and Paul Williams “Sunlight of the Spirit” award.

We shared questions and answers with Ryan regarding his career and his new release set to launch October 22nd of this year.....

Seems as though you put your whole heart into the music you write, what place does that come from, real life...or somewhere else?

My songwriting inspiration pulls from my real life, my experiences, the things I’ve seen, and sometimes stories that others have told me.

How and when did you know you wanted to be an entertainer/ singer/ songwriter?

At age 6 I begged my parents for guitar lessons. I don’t think I wanted to be an entertainer / singer / songwriter ... it’s just something that I’ve always been doing. It’s something that is a part of me whether I like that or not. Good thing I do LOVE it.

I’ve been performing since I was a little kid, making family members take a seat at the couch and the living room be my stage.

Aside from your beautiful gift you are also a Trans advocate....which is another beautiful gift. What advice would you give to others in your position who are Trans and have a dream to follow?

Do not let being Trans get in the way of your dream.

You can still have your dream regardless of your transness. You may have to work a little harder than most, because being Trans makes for a

You can still have your dream regardless of your transness. You may have to work a little harder than most, because being Trans makes for a steeper mountain to climb than cis people’s mountains, but you can still do it. Build your community and be surrounded by support.

Do you think that music has the power to influence the world?

Yes, I think music is one of the most powerful communications in the world. It’s a universal language that transmits feelings to many.

On your new album about to be released there are some powerful songs...is there one you are most proud of or enjoy performing the most?

Right now, I’ve been enjoying performing Guard Rail the most because it’s been fun to play with the full band. We have a slightly different version for live shows that I get to sing and dance a bit.

through and was able to write about it. I made it through to the other side. I hope the people that have struggled and suffered too will find that the music and words can help hold space for them and help lift them through the grief.

What’s next for Ryan?

The album is up next, followed by another album and I truly hope to wrap up the memoir soon and get it out into the world!

Watch the official “Hometown HEro” music video by Ryan Cassata here: https://youtu.be/sK27w6cD4wI The official website for Ryan Cassata may be found at https://www.RyanCassata.com Photo Credits: Asher Phoenix

What is the best advice that you’ve ever received?

“Never miss any opportunities.” - My Mom! She told me this when I was asked to perform an original song at my camps open mic. It was the first time I sang in front of a group of people that wasn’t my family.

Knowing what you know now what advice would you give to baby Ryan?

Enjoy the ride, everything you go through will end up useful because it will not only help you, but it will help others.

My favorite song on the planet at the moment is “Mattress”....What do you hope people will take away after listening to it?

Thank you! I hope people will now see the producer side of me exists! Haha! I not only wrote it and performed it but I also produced it. Magic Miracle Mile is my first fully self-produced album. I hope that listeners will see that they are not alone in their experiences. It’s okay to have moments where our hearts feel heavy - we can get through them.

Do you think that music makes “one” heal?

Yes, music has been the most healing aspect of my life. It’s a powerful expression that has relieved a lot of grief.

Where do you hope your career will take you in 5 years?

Who knows but I’m very down for the ride and will continue to live in the moment, enjoying it to the best of my ability!

Can you describe the message or messages you hope your new alum will convey?

I hope that it is empowering to people. It is about grief and pain on a large scale. But it’s also about empowerment. I lived through all that I went

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ROB JANKOWSKI “Attached Paranormal” by Addison Coleman Just in time for Halloween, screen play writer, director, producer and actor Rob Jankowski will be releasing his supernatural sensation “Attached Paranormal” on October 26TH, examining the strange death of what was regarded as a suicide. The film will be on-demand via Amazon Prime, Google Play, iTunes, Microsoft, and the Dish Network.

Based in Pennsylvania, Rob was interested in film since childhood. He wasn’t only interested in watching them but also producing them in the behind the scenes work that goes on in making a movie. He’s also a triple threat as an actor and director in his own screen plays.

I was fortunate to speak with Rob regarding the behind the scenes efforts in making a film in the midst of a pandemic.....

First of all do you believe in the paranormal?

I’ve always been questionable on it.

What inspired your new film coming out on October 26th just in time for Halloween?

To be honest with you, this was more inspired from Covid. When Covid hit everything in the film industry pretty much shut down. I didn’t want to be sitting around doing nothing so I used the time to go back and look at several screenplays that I wrote myself. I went back and looked at what I could realistically shoot and produce when Covid shut everything down with

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a minimal crew and cast. So I went to the script that I wrote “Attached Paranormal” and obviously I had to simplify things, rewrite some things in order to do it during shut down. That’s pretty much what it stemmed from.

What challenges did you face during lock down aside from isolation?

That was the biggest challenge. The biggest challenge was casting a cast where several of them had to basically tape their scenes from their own location and then send me the footage where I was able to edit it at a later date. That was the hardest challenge because we weren’t supposed to be around anyone, there was social distancing as requirements for production shut down. So just basically finding the cast.

Briefly tell us about the movie without giving too much away.

So, the film is a paranormal horror film. Basically a wife is away on vacation and she comes home to find her husband dead on the floor and then calls the cops. The cops dismiss it right away and say its suicide, no big deal. They did find a camera but they just put it in the evidence locker and locked it away.

They never really watched the footage. So years later a detective that works on cold cases gets the footage and watches it for the first time. While he has it at his home to review, his high school son gets a hold of it, watches it, and thinks it would be a cool

idea to edit the footage into somewhat of a movie format and upload to the Internet for the world to watch and decide what they think.

Does your film have a message?

There is no real message other than there are a lot of unexplained deaths that occur every year. That’s one of the premises of this film, that things like this do happen all the time and they get dismissed all the time for no real actual rhyme or reason as to why the person died. It could be an unknown death or one in which they determined as a suicide but no one really knew exactly why or how it happened. A lot of it leads back to the paranormal. If you believe in the paranormal it can be such things as where they possessed, were they being tormented, or was it someone seeing things beyond the realm that they didn’t want to be seeing? So it kind of falls into that.

Tell me about Rob? My background is, I’m from Reading, Pennsylvania and I was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. At a young age I loved watching movies, films, TV but not just on the level, “OK it’s cool“. I was always fascinated with all of the elements of it. How it was made? From raising the financing to the production and the shooting of it, to editing it and distributing it. I was always in to all the aspects of it from a young age. There was a time during my early teenage years where I had some difficult times. I was kind of like a troubled teen at a point. There were a bunch of movies at that time that actually got me through that time period. So what I like and am fascinated by regarding films and TV shows as well,is that they can touch people on a personal note to make a difference. Some people don’t even realize that it’s happening. But it is. It can uplift people, and it can change their mind on an opinion. There is a lot of value in film and the entertainment business in general. I had my first play in 6th Grade where I got to act and fell in love with it. During junior high and high school, when I was kind of a bad boy.... I always wanted to be in my drama class and do plays but I was always getting in trouble and thinking that it wouldn’t be a cool thing. So, what I did as an alternative was, when I was 13 I bought myself an old 8 mm video recorder. From that point on and all of my teenage years, myself and a group of my friends started making tons of our own short films and feature films for our own friends and enjoyment to watch.

When I was 17 I landed my first agent out of Philly and then when I was 19 I started going to New York.

I met a boutique manager that was bi coastal. They wanted to take me on. Basically the whole thing was in alignment but at the last minute I chickened out.

I had no support system at that time and I only had a couple of hundred bucks in my pocket so I chickened out from taking that leap. Long story short from then till now I’ve still been doing my own thing, but it wasn’t up until 2 or 3 years ago that I decided that I was going to jump back in full-time and really pursue this.

Do you have a favorite influence?

Someone that influenced me especially with film and that I watched as a teenager and loved was Al Pacino, and Denzel Washington. The two of them are big ones that kind of pulled me into the intrigue of filmmaking.

Where do you hope your career takes you in five years?

I’d like to be doing this full-time, being an actor and filmmaker. I started my own production company recently which is the company that made this film as well. I have several original screen plays as soon as this movie releases I’ll start pushing preproduction on that one. So five years from now, I hope to be a full-time working actor not only in my own productions but movies from all over the place.

Watch the trailer for “Attached: Paranormal” here: https://youtu.be/1b1SKev77lg Check out “Attached: Paranormal” on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11855826/?ref_=nv_sr_ srsg_3 Actor/Director/Writer Rob Jankowski on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5225695/?ref_=nv_ sr_srsg_0

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We caught up with...

Elvira

MISTRESS OF THE DARK aka Cassandra Peterson

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Elvira AKA Cassandra Peterson - “Yours Cruelly, Elvira: Memoirs of the Mistress of the Dark” Interview by Eileen Shapiro Halloween Icon Cassandra Peterson–known to the world as “Elvira, the Mistress of the Dark”–reveals her deep, dark secrets in her new book entitled “Yours Cruelly, Elvira: Memoirs of the Mistress of the Dark”. The book is released in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the pop culture icon Elvira and the 70th birthday of Cassandra.

The most glamorous Hollywood Halloween Icon on the planet, Cassandra tells all her truths as one of the most popular characters resonating with the LGBTQ community. Included in her manuscript are tales of sexual assault, her 19-year hidden love affair with a woman, her wild night with Tom Jones, her meeting with Elvis that changed her life, her uncomfortable moment with Frank Sinatra, her hysterical encounter with Sammy Davis Jr. and much more.

During a Zoom interview Elvira shared questions and answers regarding the contents of her self-written escapades. At 70, she is one of the most beautiful women I have ever encountered, both inside and out…and both as Elvira and Cassandra.

How did you originally become “Elvira” and did you think it would last 40 years?

After I got the job, I predicted it would last 40 days.

It was so cheesy and was on a local station in Hollywood. They were looking for a horror hostess to replace the previous horror hostess, so I went on an audition for the part. I walked in with my little springtime turquoise vest, with a room full of vampires, basically. Women dressed up in black, with black wigs and things. No one told me to dress up, but I did get the role, which was a miracle. I had a good comedy background, so I started joking with the script and apparently they liked my jokes.

You were told about this role on your honeymoon, but obviously couldn’t audition then. However, when you came back from your honeymoon, the role was still available. Why do you think you got the role instead of those other hundreds who auditioned?

They had been looking and looking forever. They were looking for somebody who was sexy and versed in comedy. Back in those days, that was pretty rare. They really couldn’t find anybody like that.

My friend who called me about the role told me that I was the perfect person because they were looking for somebody funny and sexy. I got the part, I think, based on the humor.

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Did it make you an overnight success?

For the first couple of years, I was just in the L.A. market, but it did kind of happen right away. After the first show aired, everybody and their mother was calling me to ask me if I would come to their

Halloween party. My phone number was listed in the phone book because I was not prepared to suddenly become famous. Very soon after, I got asked to be on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. That was a game changer. I think everybody kind of knew that when you went on that show, which in those days was “the show,” you were pretty much famous.

As an actress playing Elvira, was there ever a conflict as Cassandra playing yourself?

I had it in my mind that I would be doing this little show every Thursday and then thinking that I would have to go out and find other acting jobs that actually paid for real. I was only making $350 a week, so that really wasn’t covering my bills. I had it in my head that this was just gonna be one little gig and I could still go out and get other gigs as Cassandra because I looked so different as Elvira. Nobody recognized me.

Then I would go on casting calls and I would see the director’s face drop because they were expecting some big Amazon girl with black hair. I would come in, a kind of petite redhead, and they would ask me why I was there.

You survived third degree burns as a child. How did that experience affect you as an adult?

I was burned at only 18 months, and I grew up during school being teased and bullied and made fun of. My scars were very, very obvious back then. I felt like a misfit and I was extremely shy because I didn’t want to hang out with anyone. It was kind of a setback for me, and then I finally realized that I was glad it happened. Because I felt like a misfit, I eventually got into the world of horror. By the time I was in second grade, I was deeply involved with seeing horror movies and buying horror magazines and all of that. So in a weird, roundabout way, the accident led me to my love of horror and really got me started on that path.

So, I look at that today as a good thing.

In the book, you talk about a relationship that you’ve had that most people will not know about. Can you give us a little insight?

I was married for 25 years to a man, and after I was divorced, I fell in love with a woman. I had never had any inclination that I was gay. Honestly, to tell you the truth, I don’t think I’m gay, because I am attracted to men. But, I fell for this woman. We were good friends for six years and we were both in a relationship, and at that time, there was no interest in being with her.

She was just a good friend. Eventually, I don’t know what happened, but we fell in love and I’ve been with her for 19 years, and we had to hide it. It’s just so hypocritical and I hate that, but I do have a character, a brand and a business that I was protecting. Elvira is a giant horndog. She chases men. All of a sudden, to be with a woman is more shocking to me, I think, than anyone else.

over the years many times. We were very friendly. We called him Uncle Wilty. Then, one day at his house, I was at a party and he sexually assaulted me.

It was very awful. I didn’t tell anybody my whole life.

I kind of just crammed it down. People ask me why I didn’t go to the police and I thought, “OK, he’s a giant sports legend and I was an out of work ex-showgirl.

Who are they going to believe?” Back then, it would never even have entered your mind to go and report someone like that. You have seen what happens to other women who have reported sexual abuse. They get trashed by the press and get called crazy.

You were the youngest showgirl in Las Vegas?

It was crazy. It was an accident. I had been dreaming my whole life of being a showgirl. I went to see the movie Viva Las Vegas with Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret, and from that day on, I became obsessed with going to Vegas and becoming a showgirl. So I went on vacation with my mom and dad and my two younger sisters. They stopped in Vegas and I begged them to please take me to see one of the big, glamorous shows. I convinced them that I could dress up and look 21, even though I was 17. So I put on makeup and we were sitting at the show and before it started, the maître d’ came over and asked me if I was a showgirl in town. I said “No” and I was afraid of being discovered that I was under 21. But he told me that they were having auditions tomorrow and he told me to audition for it. The next thing I knew, out comes the stage manager who takes me backstage, has me dance, then sends me to the producer. The next morning, I got the job. Then my parents had to sign off on me because I was underage. They

Back then, it was more difficult to come out as gay, but now that we’re living in a world that’s a little freer and more freethinking, is it easier for you to come out with it?

The timing is just right. I had no regrets about putting that in the book. I’m so glad that I can finally just talk about it and we can be a couple. It had to be awful for her, as I always introduced her as my assistant for the last 19 years. Actually, she is my assistant because she works with me and I couldn’t run this business without her. But introducing her that way is degrading to her and lying to me and my fans. I am at a point in my life where I need to talk about it. I need to come out of the closet, as it were. I don’t have to worry about it anymore. I made enough money and I’m very set.

It must have been a huge weight lifted.

It was very draining. It sucks all of the energy out of you.

You’ve had encounters with a lot of different celebrities, one of whom was a huge basketball star, Wilt Chamberlain. What happened?

I knew him for many years before it happened. It was just shocking because we were friends. He was dating my roommate and I had met him and seen him

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You also met Sammy Davis Jr.?

Oh, dear God…I was so stupid. I was 17 at the time and I had gone down to Tijuana with some of the girls on a day off and I bought a glass eye there.

I intended to make it into a ring. But instead, I found out that Sammy Davis Jr. and his wife were coming to the show. I was thrilled because I had grown up my whole life listening to Sammy. I was very excited and thrilled, but got this brilliant idea–well, actuall y, it was on a dare from some of the other girls. I glued the glass eyeball that I had on one of my nipples and went out and did the show that way. I don’t know what I was thinking, but then I found out Sammy was coming backstage. I almost died. I wanted to hide. Instead, he came back and he thought it was the funniest thing that he’s ever seen in his life.

literall y had to sign a contract saying that it was OK for me to perform there. I wasn’t allowed to go in the casino or through the casino, but I was allowed to dance onstage topless. It took a lot to get my parents to sign that contract because they were not thrilled, I can tell you that much.

Eventuall y, I got them to sign it.

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According to your book, Elvis Presley changed your life. How so?

If Elvis had not come along, I wouldn’t have gone from being the youngest showgirl in history to now the oldest showgirl in history. He came and saw my show, and I was a huge Elvis fan. I went to a party at his hotel afterwards with the girls from the show. He set me down and gave me all this advice and told me I was way too young to be in Las Vegas. He told me to think about a singing career. We actually sat down at the piano and he was singing and I sang along with him. He told me I had a nice voice and told me to take some vocal lessons.

Even though I thought I was at the pinnacle of my career–it was my dream job being a showgirl–I took Elvis‘s advice. After all, he was Elvis. When my contract expired, I left for a singing gig in Europe.

You had an encounter with Andy Williams?

I went on a couple of brief dates with Andy. Apparentl y, he liked the younger girls and I went on a couple of not so great dates with him. He insisted I call him daddy and eventuall y I went to his show and I ended up biting his lip and making him bleed right before he was going out to perform. That was the end of me and daddy.

You also met Tom Jones. What was that like?

I met Tom Jones and got backstage. This is really sleazy. We ended up in bed. I was pretty much a virgin at that point. He didn’t believe me. I ended up sleeping with him and then wound up in the emergency room and I had to get stitches. But I was still madly in love with him and I went back the next day to see him and caught him on the couch with his backup singer. My hopes of marrying him were dashed because I had no idea he already had a wife.

What happened with Frank Sinatra?

I had the most embarrassing moment in my life, perhaps, with Frank Sinatra. I met him at a party while I was the date of one of the Osmond brothers. Their parents were with us, so it was mom and dad Osmond and all the Osmond siblings. I met Mr. Sinatra. He came up and shook all the Osmonds’ hands, and then, when I put my hand out to shake his, he leaned back and said “Nice tits.”

The Osmonds were so religious and I just wanted to die. I did get back with him years later when I was working as a hat check girl at a restaurant in Holl ywood. He came in and checked his hat, and I spit in it.

In your book, you talk about Briarcliff Manor.

I am very good at manifesting stuff, and if you don’t believe that, you should read my book. I think about something, I concentrate on something, I feel it, I become it and it happens. One of these examples is I lived in this 1901 spooky, old mansion. I was nine months pregnant and I was having lots of dreams about Brad Pitt. I had just seen him in Interview with a Vampire. So, I was sitting at home one day and the bell rings. I asked who it was and a voice says “Brad Pitt.” I didn’t believe him and thought it was my writing partner, so I went down to check out who the axe

murderer was hiding behind the gate. I went down to the gate and there was Brad Pitt. He said that “Nicolas Cage (who was a friend of mine) had told me about your house and I would love to see it.” I couldn’t get the gate opened fast enough. I was waddling around and I was literally ready to drop the baby. Anyway, Brad came in and I took them on a tour of the house and then he came back the next day. Then a few days went by and Brad Pitt’s lawyer called us and said that he wanted to buy our house.

Have you had your ultimate stage fantasy yet? Are you still looking to do something else?

Something that I’d like to accomplish that I’ve been thinking about and slightly working on is doing a Broadway show of Mistress of the Dark. That was a dream of mine. I think it would be so funny, like in the vein of Legally Blonde. I think it would be a really fun show.

Why do you think Elvira has become such a gay icon over the years? And why do you think the horror genre resonates so well with the LGBTQ community?

Those are two big questions that I’ve always tried to figure out. I think Elvira resonates with them in that, believe it or not, she’s a little bit androgynous. She’s a very sexy woman, showing a lot of cleavage and all that, but then her male side shows that she is strong, tough and determined. I think that is something peo ple align with. I think that Cher and Madonna have those same qualities. They are both super sexy and both tough. I think that appeals to gay men and women because it’s refreshing to see a woman who is not ashamed of her body, but at the same time doesn’t become a sexual object. As for the horror genre, I think it’s probably for the same reason that it resonated so well with me. I was teased and made fun of when I was a child–in my case, it was because of my scars. But I know enough gay men who were also teased and made fun of. So, I think that they grew up in general feeling a little bullied, a little bit like they didn’t fit in. Horror kind of attracts that crowd because in the movie, you always have a monster who is misunderstood, as in the Frankenstein movie. He’s really a good guy and doesn’t mean to be that way. But he has a series of things that happen that gets him to be that way. He didn’t cause it, he didn’t want it, it just is. I think that’s maybe why the gay community resonates with horror…but I’m no psychologist. But, I just feel like I’m a gay man.

she was certainly surprised. It wasn’t like coming out, it just happened. I just fell in love with this particular person. But I am so happy that I am talking to people about it now and they can find out about it now because having secrets is not good. It’s like holding it in–it gives you gas. I was protecting a brand, but I held onto that secret for way too long. Now I feel like I can talk about it and if some company doesn’t want to hire me or host their television show, well then, screw them now. I feel hypocritical about being around so many gay people and having so many gay fans and not letting them know about it, but I hope they will understand it.

Elvira AKA Cassandra Peterson with Vincent Price.

Why was it so important for you to come out about your relationship now. Do you think it will help people who aren’t so authentic, but want to be?

I think it’s a big deal. I am really excited about coming out with this information now because for 19 years, after my divorce, I had this friend for six years with no inkling that it was going to turn into a relationship. I was more surprised than anybody else, and

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HOMER MARRS Singer-Songwriter Hi Homer Marrs, it’s an honor to have you on the platform.

Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?

Sure! My first love was acting, specifically improv and sketch comedy. I did that professionally for several years and first began writing songs for comedy shows. I loved comedy but when I realized I had things I wanted to say that were not just funny, I shifted to focus on music. In Chicago I played with a band as Homer Marrs and the Excellent Adventure. We released two EPs and a few videos.

Now that I’m in L.A. I am rocking it solo acoustic again, which is different but also fun.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way?

Whoa, so many. You have to really love making your art if you’re going to stick with it. There are so many haters out there, and there are always a thousand other people trying to do something similar to you. I’ve learned to believe that every voice is unique, as cliché as that sounds, and that if you really believe in your own voice and hyper-focus on expressing your perspective, people will respond and relate. I started believing in the Law of Attraction several years ago after laughing at it for awhile, and my life actually got

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But, it’s more accepted in the pop music/Top 40 genre. People doing rock or rap are still having trouble being taken seriously, from what I see.

What sets your music apart? What is unique, or at least uncommon?

My point of view, I think. There’s a phrase I learned in a poetry class in college that I love: “It’s through the particular that we show the universal.” I really believe every artist should consider their voice unique no matter how similar they may feel to others. No two lives are the same. No two minds are the same. Your song about a broken heart, falling in love, or any other common subject, will be different from someone else’s if you really get specific.

a lot easier and better once I did. So I do my best to think positively and feel gratitude daily (again, as cliché as that sounds).

Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

No, I wish I could say that!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business.

What should we know about your work?

I am a singer–songwriter with an affinity for quirky lyrics, humor and catchy melodies. You can sense my comedy background even in my more serious songs like “Ben,” I think. I grew up on guitar-based alt rock and gay pop, and I think that comes through. I love dropping Easter eggs in homage to my influences.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?

Start an indie playlist with a specific focus and get to know the other people whose songs you feature. The indie scene is full of some awesome people trying their hardest to get their music heard, and when you find other unsigned artists whose stuff you like who also likes yours, it is really supportive to share out each other’s songs and give tips and tricks to one another.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

Catchy songs with curious lyrics and heartfelt sentiment. Pop/rock on a six-string to make your mind sing.

Do you feel there are bigger obstacles to become a LGBTQ artist?

Yes. For years we were totally relegated to fringe music with no ma jor-label potential. Things are changing for the better as many people now see a queer perspective as an asset and something worth hearing.

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What is your creative process like?

When I write late at night I start with the guitar and go for reflective/somber chord progressions with lots of suspensions. When it’s during the day I write more ma jor-chord, uptempo stuff. It’s funny to me how time of day really affects the vibe of whatever I’m working on. Took me awhile to notice that. My lyrics I refine the most. I take those very seriously as for me I’ve always felt the words are where I’m most directly connecting with the listener. That might not be what’s actually happening, but in my mind it is. So my first takes of songs have like a line or two I came up with and a lot of “la-la-la, something-something” on the recordings. Then I ask myself what I’m really trying to say and get to the lyrical part of it.

Can you tell me about your single “BEN” and how you came up with that name for the single and why?

Well for starters, I’ve never dated a Ben! I didn’t want to use the name of any actual ex-boyfriend. I always like the Michael Jackson song of the same name. I loved that it was a sweet song but written to accompany a horror movie. Crispin Glover has long been an influence of mine, and in 2003 he did his own cover of the song when he played the title character in the remake of Willard. Lastly, I grew up on alt rock and Veruca Salt had a song called “Benjamin.” So it was a trifecta of influences that worked perfectly as I had no real Ben in my dating history.

As for the song itself, some of it is literally true and other of it is assembled from various life experiences.

It’s at once about unrequited love and realizing when your drinking or drug use has really interfered with your life. The song is sadder about it all than I am now, though. It was a cathartic release.

What was the idea behind the music video?

I think isolation was a driving factor. The song talks about Ben being single, but of course is more about the singer feeling isolated (even though it’s pointing again and again to someone else being alone). It was written and filmed in the pandemic so isolation was a ubiquitous theme. When it came to filming, it made

sense both artistically and for production purposes to have only one person in the video—to enhance the loneliness that the song sings about, but also reflect the loneliness we were all feeling from the pandemic.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Oh, Evan Dando, my longtime alt-rock hero. I’ve always been impressed how he vacillates from poetic to poppy, deep to fun. He’s got a real way with chords and I learned a lot about chord structure playing along to Lemonheads records.

If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?

John Grant! I discovered his music about ten years ago and have been consistently impressed. He’s a gay may like me who sings very confessionally and candidly, sometimes comically sometimes explicitly, so I think it would be a natural fit as far as tone and audience go. Plus all the hot bears go to his shows.

Yes, please.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Try to look at life through rose-tinted glasses. The more beauty you see, the more beauty you experience.

What is the most useless talent you have?

I can do the Dr. Claw voice from Inspector Gadget with disturbing accuracy.

Do you sing in the shower? What songs?

OMG, yes! Sometimes I make weird noises that are somewhere between scales and warmups, other times I sing cheesy pop. When I say “cheesy” I mean good ’80s pop. “Only in My Dreams” by Debbie Gibson is a great shower number. If I’m feeling moody my neighbors will hear bad Alice in Chains as my water runs.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

Hosting a game show, naturally.

Where have you performed? What are your favourite and least favourite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?

With The Excellent Adventure I performed in a lot of clubs and bars in Chicago with some touring. One of my favorite rooms to play ever was Sidetrack the Video Bar in Chicago. It’s not a traditional music venue but it’s a legendary home for the LGBTQ community and their sound was surprisingly phenomenal in what they call the Glass Bar. Also it was a gorgeous room. That show was ages ago but it’s one of my favorites. In L.A. I would love to play Hotel Café, it’s a great little space for both indie artists and legends like Rufus Wainwright (whom my friend just saw there, color me jealous!).

How do you feel about the way covid-19 has impacted the music business?

I dunno if I can speak to the industry as a whole,

but of course artists all took a massive hit losing live performances. So I guess it’s been atrocious for business. But, quarantining gave a lot of people more time to listen to music and discover new artists at home. I definitely benefitted from that. So, silver lining is I think the number of online new-music-hunters went up!

What is your favourite song to perform?

I have a song called “Destroy You Whole” that I love to play live, primarily for the guitar riff. It’s simple, bright and bouncy, even though the lyrics are dark, and something about the physical playing of that main riff kinda puts me into a joy trance.

Which famous musicians do you admire?

Oooh… so many. Evan Dando and John Grant, as mentioned above. On the hard end of my spectrum I love Danzig, on the softer end, Suzanne Vega. And I always like artsy risk-takers like Kate Bush, Lady Gaga and Stephen Malkmus.

What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?

That you can print??? Well… I was handcuffed and put into a police car one time for taking a whiz in an alley outside a bar. That was kinda ridiculous and funny in hindsight. They were hoping I had drugs on me because the neighborhood was trying to oust the bar and catch them for whatever they could, but I didn’t. Sadly, the bar did close years later. A historic community gem we lost to gentrification.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

In every moment, look for something to appreciate.

The more you do, the easier it is to do so by default, and suddenly the difficult things get harder and harder to notice.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I’d want radio stations to be empowered to promote indie artists alongside the ma jor-label ones. They could do this, but don’t, and instead if any unsigned bands or singers get on the radio is usually in the guise of an indie-hour once a week or something.

I’d like to see more of a mix of indie and established artists in general. It feels like things that are indie are 100% indie and anything not is 100% not. I think a blend would be better.

What’s next for you?

Just entered the studio to record the follow-up to “Ben.” This one’s brighter sonically and more uptempo, but still serious. I’m also performing at an event called Bearlesque in November. A night of big-boy musicians and stripteases. I’m the former.

Contact Info: Instagram: @homermarrs Facebook: facebook.com/homermarrsmusic Twitter: @homermarrs

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LUKA JAMES “Hazy Dreams” by Meredith Grant Luka is a singer songwriter who grew up in Greenwich Village, New York. With hypnotic/emotive vocal layers, Luka produces heart filled songs offering cathartic release from complex internal monologues. Inspired by evocative vocalists like James Blake, Steve Winwood, Moses Sumney, Jordan Rakei and Janis Joplin, and Kelsey Lu, Luka’s captivating sounds conjure bliss amongst shared feelings of euphoria, pain and sadness.

A form of cinematic and alternative pop soul, Luka infuses creative vintage piano riffs and electric guitar for a sonic journey. His music holds experience from years of hosting MusiCollage, a New York-based group singing workshop. Whether singing with or for you, he plants seeds for collective expression.

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What encouraged you to become a recording artist?

I was leading improv singing groups the last four years, and became very inspired by Bobby McFerrin and circle singing. I loved the ephemeral nature of improv singing. Nothing to hold onto, share or package.

But that didn’t mean I didn’t have a lot of music in my head, yearning to be explored and expressed fully.

Going deep into music production these last years unlocked new sounds and storytelling voices. I feel what I am sharing is both unique and relatable through crafted songs, and hopefully motivates singing along or making your own music.

If you could have your ultimate stage fantasy what would it be?

Ooh, love envisioning this. It not only would consist of a large, joyous, dance inspiring band, but it would include comedy, interactive singing, and theatrics all geared towards taking the audience on a journey that moved them in a new way.

Who are your biggest influences?

Growing up, I think the only CDs my dad had in the car were Radiohead’s Ok Computer and Andre 3000 ‘The Love Below’ and Traffic’s greatest hits. I fell in love with the complex, whimsical and experimental styles of Thom Yorke, Stevie Winwood and Andre 3000. Through my wall, I would hear more range from my siblings, and later fell in love with the powerfully emotive voices of Jim Morrison and Kurt Cobain.

What inspires your music?

Years of layering and layering and layering vocals in my Brooklyn closet studio and from my community of singers in Musicollage. I also try to bring the cathartic power of nature into my sonic landscapes.

In terms of contemporary artists, I’m a huge fan of artists like James Blake and Kelsey Lu. They freeze me in a nostalgic trance state.

What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten from somebody, and what is the best advice that you can give somebody?

Humans and words are beautiful, but the best advice comes in the form of nature’s humble service

without expecting to receive. Oh and you miss every shot you don’t take - Gretzsky, that’s a classic, but very, very true lol. I am grateful for a lot of constant sage wisdom surrounding me, so I can’t compress it to one sound advice, life is ever evolving and not one size fits all for advice. (Maybe someone will say that’s the best advice they got.

Tell me about your newest release?

Hazy Dreams is my passionate attempt to immortalize a fading romance through an intimate lead vocal, swirling harmonic vocals layers and complex arrangement of dream-like electric guitar, Rhodes bass piano, experimental synthesizers and Wurlitzer counter melodies.

I made a beautiful video featuring actress and dancer Morgana Van Peebles.

Where do you hope your career will take you in five years?

I hope I am performing around the world, engaging the audience in emotional transformative ways through powerful sonic storytelling and by empowering their own creativity. I hope there is an audience who watches my musical stories and feels compelled to have greater empathy for the world and life around them.

Do you think music has the power to change the World?

Hasn’t it already? When we talk to each other’s hearts, and not just competitive who’s right, ego

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minds, we can make true collective progress.

What’s on the horizon for you for the remainder of 2021 and beyond?

I’ll be playing shows around Brooklyn and then Los Angeles. I also have new music releases coming out throughout the year that I feel are going to really blow people away. And I say that not having been confident in my craft always, but finally arriving at a place after a ton of work, that I feel thrilled to share my music. It’s been a long and beautiful journey! Really grateful and excited for this moment!

Stream “Hazy Dreams” by Luka James on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/album/1S5ozHxJZWBkrTXfLSYYrd?si=pHBFBjhwSG-I22rwXEQ3hg&dl_branch=1 Follow Luka James on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luka james_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LukaJamesMusica Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luka james_

AMERICAN RAPPERS “WHAT IS KILLING OUR HIP-HOP ARTISTS?” …people of the hip-hop industry speak out lengthen his or her life expectancy, he or she would By: Lou Conley Crime, drug overdose, violence, rivalry between 2 artists in the music industry, robberies and even death are words in headlines making the news for America’s rap artists today. On February 19, 2020, rapper Pop Smoke was shot and killed in his Hollywood Hills home during a home invasion. Pop Smoke, originally from New York, NY, had recently moved to California.

Articles speaking of his promising career, legal battles and topping it off with articles of his violent death are what swarm the internet when searching the internet for more information on whom was to be a promising star, Pop Smoke was only 20 years old.

simply need to stay away from guns and people that have them! Again, remember Wikipedia’s list of 36 murdered rappers mentioned earlier? ALL 36 victims are listed under having been “shot and killed” as their cause of death, so staying away from guns would be common sense but if only it were that easy! Also, you and I both know there are more underlying factors that need to be considered as well.

According to Wikipedia’s “Murdered Hip Hop Musicians”, since 1987 there have been 36 hip-hop artists that were murdered; all 36 fatalities were a result of being shot except for one having been shot AND run over. Although Wikipedia’s list refers to only “notable” hip-hop artists, I am aware of other rappers the list did not include such as Succeed Phlyguy.

Succeed Phlyguy, whose real name was Ronnie Cravens Jr., was a Las Vegas Rapper who was shot and killed during a home invasion robbery at his residence in October of 2019 much like the crime committed against rapper Pop Smoke, whose life fell short as a result of the home invasion. Succeed Phlyguy’s case was a premeditated robbery that involved a pizza delivery scam texted to his phone. The premeditated crime to rob Succeed Phlyguy brought forth the realization that the late 40-year-old rapper was a planned target. Was he a target because he was a known rapper? If so, people commonly relate being a rap artist to having a lot of money, could that mean Pop Smoke was a planned target as well?

According to Dianna Kenny’s 2015 article “Music To Die For: How Genre Affects Popular Musicians’ Life Expectancy” the article included graphs and charts (as shared below) that shows rap and hip-hop artists have the shortest life span expectancy as opposed to all other music genre; it also shows a projected and extremely high rate for homicide being rap and hiphop artists’ cause of death.

The only concluding idea to be made using the information made available to the public such as the article mentioned, is that if a rap artist desires to

With the lack of updated statistics surrounding murdered hip-hop and rap artists, I decided to ask some of America’s hip-hop artists and people affiliated within the hip-hop industry what their thoughts are regarding the headline news of rap and hip-hop industry deaths.

Kenny, Dianna. “Music to die for: how genre affects popular musicians’ life expectancy”, Cause of Death by Genre graph, www.TheConversation.com

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DJ Wavy’s passion for music, especially rap and hiphop, is expressed through his smooth transitions and mixes of hip-hop and rap, constantly leaving audiences wanting more across US dance floors when he performs live for shows and clubs.

DJ Wavy shared his thoughts when asked about the many recent rap artist deaths making headlines.

“All the (recent) deaths of artists apart from Nipsey’s is brought upon themselves with lack of control of their own environment, people that they’re around, allowing certain things to happen, and their lack of security and control. Simply, an artist that put out music that is negative will bring attention to themselves as a negative rapper, (using) guns, money, drugs. Even with music videos, guns and drugs.”

When asked what reasons were behind his idea of the industry’s current problem, he states, “There is no motivation. No Guidance.”

Al Hassan Naqiyy who is famously known as B.G. Knocc Out, a well-known American rapper who has worked side-by-side with the late legendary rap artist Eazy-E. and was featured on the hit track “Real Muthaphuckkin G’s”. Knowledgeable to the rap industry, he shared his thoughts about recent rapper related murders saying, “Social media is definitely a contributing factor.

“What it (social media) implies when you have followers, who those followers are, and what you are portraying to them, so definitely social media and the psychology of that plays a ma jor role in today’s climate of hip-hop artists dying so young and fast.

This is a new phenomenon, a new psychology because social media is new millennia. There’s no reference for it in the history of man.

“My input for this sad facet of our life, is what I will say about most of our social ills, is that we need collective counseling as a people, as a country and as a uni-world! All doctors of the mind, if they have an ethical bone in their bodies, they should begin to work at healing us and them. I say ‘them’ because no matter who you are, if you’re around or encompassed by something, you have no choice in how that thing will affect you. So, all of us need to begin a process of healing from desensitization first.”

Naqiyy also believes the death rate of rap artists can be lowered saying, “I believe everyone has something of value to contribute to this healing process. It’s just a matter of acting on it and being absolutely sincere intention-wise.”

DJ Wavy, the official DJ for 1500 Or Nothin’, an American music ensemble created in 2006 that has associated with top record producers to hit musical artists, having been tied to music industry’s Master P., Rick Ross, and the rapper sensation, Snoop Dogg.

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David Williams III, more famously known as “Techniec”, a former member of The LBC Crew, a rap group that had also consisted of the late rapper Bad Azz as well as Tray Deee. Techniec shared his view on rap artist death rates stating, “I wouldn’t say there’s an increase in hip hop but definitely a rise in industry related deaths.”

He also shared some words of advice for upcoming and new music artist to consider, “Build and fortify your team.”

Techniec - Image shared from: https://www.blogtalkradio. com/e-dubble/2019/09/14/off-the-cuff-radio-the-techniecepisode-261

JJ Loc – Eastside Business; Image shared from https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJrWwFVLkjw

When asked if he thought there was a rising death toll among rap and hip-hop artists, he replied, “Yes I do because it’s alot of haters in this business, the one’s already in and the ones that don’t want to see you make it! If you have a decent squad of homies keep them with you because when you start flashing racks of money, the haters see it! The home invaders see it! You got to keep some muscle with you!”

Brian “B-Dub” Wilson, of the Gap Band Review and nephew of the Gap Band’s Charlie Wilson, took time to share what thoughts he had about the theorized increase of rapper-related deaths which he defines as “jealousy deaths”.

“These kids are stuck in this glamour but don’t see the real job behind their reasons for becoming a celebrity,” says Wilson. “These children out here are watching. Where has the mentoring mind gone?”

Wilson also expressed how those in the industry who work with and inspire positivity among others tend not to meet the same fate as some of the younger music artists. “It’s true, the ones that are mentoring are mostly still alive if they were not just sickly and passed from natural causes,” concluded Wilson. The talented James Jones, known in the hip-hop industry as JJ Loc of Eastside Business, is known for his unique and original style of rap and freestyle.

Rap artist Phillii Kennedii, shown here to the right alongside the late rapper Bad Azz, shared his thoughts when asked if he believed the number of deaths among rap artists were rising. He replied saying, “It’s always been happening,” meaning that these murders have been ongoing and just recently has the news media decided to cover rapper related deaths. Phillii Kennedii also shared some words of wisdom sharing, “If you come to California (from another state) or you’re from California and go somewhere else be more humble.”

D3 Tha RocStar (Prince of LBC), a known hip-hop artist that has recently toured alongside Snoop Dogg, expressed his grief over recent deaths that has affected the hip-hop community saying, “2019 has already been a difficult year in the hip hop community with the deaths of Nipsey Hussle, Bad Azz and now Kobe Bryant and Pop Smoke. Prayers go out to all their families!”

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t regarding the recent publicized rap murders saying, “It appears as more Hip-Hop artists are ending up in jail, being murdered and committing crimes more than ever, but a huge factor in this is that almost anyone can now be called a Hip-Hop artist and literally every other person seems to be aspiring to be in the industry.

“Nonetheless the loss and destruction of life is very unfortunate and hopefully new solutions will arise from the grass roots to save and improve lives.”

The responses given to be used in this article all covered the same general idea as to what contributes to the death of our hip-hop and rap artists. Our musical artists’ social media posts and publicized lifestyle plays the ma jor role for the contributing factor that leads artists to become a prime target of not murder, but rather a target of robbery. My belief of rapper-related murders increasing was incorrect as well as not even being an arising problem. Apparently, murder is generally the result of robbery.

Hip-hop artists have become the target of a robbery based on their image projection such flashing money, jewelry, and expensive cars in their photos that are blasted all over the internet.

Sadly, fixing this issue won’t be done overnight, but making the awareness known will be the start for the music industry. A good solution is to make our hiphop artist aware of the possibility of becoming a target of robbery to opportunists in society, some whom might even be an artist’s own fan.

D3 Tha RocStar - Image shared from https://www.instagram.com/d3th3rocstar

When asked to share his thoughts on the increase of publicized news involving murdered rap artists, D3 replied, “We are going to have to unite as a whole and stop this unnecessary violence! The Entertainment Industry has the power to change this dynamic for the better!”

Malik Barnhardt, an American actor from New Jersey who has played in numerous roles on the big screen such as his role as Moochie in the 2002 hiphop film 8 Mile. Barnhardt has also worked for Phat Farm clothing line under Russell Simmons as well as having been casted in over 20 hip-hop music videos which proves to make him no stranger to the hip-hop industry. When asked if he had anything to share regarding the matter of rap artists murders, Barnhardt replied, “When you make a lot of money you (have} got to be discreet!” Regarding a way to improve a rap artist’s safety he simply stated, “Flashiness is not good.”

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OG_Legacy_Official, a community profile on Instagram that is followed by thousands of hip-hop fans as well as many hip-hop artists, shared a statemen

Changing the world seems like an impossible duty as no one can control the world, yet with the proper focus one person can make a difference and create the push for everyone to do the same. The small world each person has and is responsible for - THAT is what can be controlled, and that small world we all have is where we each must start.

BRI VALENCIA @brii__v

Patrick Baldonado @patrickbaldonadophotography Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico

MAMA! THERE GOES THE BAND For the Love of Music What is the name of your band?

Mama! There Goes that Band How did you guys come up with that name?

We three are avid sports fan. Aljay is an athlete raised in a signature sports city; Mark and I grew up in SWAC territory sports culture. “Oakland Cali” Aljay and Motown SID are Golden State Warriors fans.

GSW’s former coach, Mark Jackson, left and started doing color commentary on NBA broadcast. There he coined the phrase, “Mama, there goes that Man” to underscore especially great plays. We needed a name, and Aljay changed “man” to “band”. And it has very much caught on with our “fams”.

What made you want to become a musician?

For me, it was seeing the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. What made me want to go pro was our former bass player. He declared Music as his ma jor. I thought he was going to get rich and famous…didn’t want to get left behind.

Which instruments did you play in the band?

I play keyboards, some percussion, and some chromatic harmonica whenever the glass is broken—so to speak.

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What accomplishments do you see yourself achieving in the next five to 10 years?

Collectively…writing and producing more successful music that reaches minds and hearts, the way that our predecessors like EWF, Stevie Wonder, Isley Bros, etc. have done. …going from there, producing and writing for other recording artists

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?

I started my artistic journey as a graphic artist. Next was literary composition; my mother was a university World Lit professor and the English Dept. head.

After I achieved my undergrad in Jazz and Commercial Music, I circled back to both gifts. I created a graphic novel. …so answer is: writing. To date: the graphic novel, two volumes of short stories, and just recently completed my first non-fiction. Art-wise, I’ve contributed the the art on several album projects.

That includes art direction of MTGTB’s PANDAMMICK! What strengths do you and the group have that you believe make you a great band?

We are rooted together. I have known Mark Drummond since we were in elementary school together. I met Aljay when he came to my University/home

on scholarship. His freshman year was my second senior year. We were brothers at first sight. Aljay joined the band that Mark, our former MTGTB bass player, and I started. Musically, we have always seemed to be speaking the same language. For example: on the title cut Pandammick, I was trying to make the music go away it didn’t want to go. I was trying to bring in the vibe of Bill Withers “(Dadgummit) Who is He and What is He to You?”, which was the roughly interpolative inspiration for our “Pandammick! What Is Free…” Aljay and I were almost ready to scratch it. Then I thought to try “Psychedelic Soul”. I asked Mark to lay some PS guitar riffs and lines that burned in the path that met and extended the arc.

Which instrument is your favorite to play and why?

Piano. It is so organic. It can lead and follow. It’s a servant in waiting, like the ball collectors waiting dutifully at the Wimbledon tournament nets. The piano is ready for me. I actual finished a solo piano project that’s on release back-burner What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?

I believe with all my heart that music was created as a vehicle imported into this realm that enables human beings to offer our passion as loving praise to God. The passion comes supernaturally naturally.

Describe your favorite and least favorite part about being a musician?

That is a very intuitive question. My favorite part is collaborating and seeing greatness emerge. I do have a Love [to the 100th power]/hate relationship with music. Most of the latter has to do with the non-musical too often impeding the prize of pure music. My least favorite part is the oppressive corporate control of art, that is satisfied with mediocrity as long as it sells. That’s excellent when it comes to the art of just making money. It is often sorrowful when we compare other music eras to what we’re left with in the aftermath. To be brutally honest, it’s in the hands of the consumer to vote great music in with their dollars. It’s in the artists’ hands to make the case that music is not supposed to be so very derivative disposable. And that lyrical music should have empowering philosophies that preach the truth that we can make it as masters of our own fate.

world. I remember my last summer at MVSU. Believe me; I’m going somewhere with this. My dog was very sick. I rushed him to the vet. He died in my car before we got there. As I walked inside the house without him, my mother saw I was heartbroken. I went into my bedroom and improvised on piano.

When I finished, I was comforted. As a newlywed, once when I got into pointless argument with my new bride, I left her in the bedroom and went to my piano. Climbing the ladder in the industry, lots of frustration comes at you, but playing your heart out in front of an audience takes you away better than Calgon bath oil bubble baths ever can.

What inspired you to start playing and making music?

My loving what music did for me started me wanting to create music. I think the effect that my friend Tony Gaines lending me his 8-track of Stevie Wonder’s Fulfillingness’ First Finale had on me sealed the deal for me. I had fallen into (was high school sweetheart) love with a girl whom I was close to “asking for a chance”—as we would say back in the day. Listening as I slept, Stevie’s words and music, especially with “Creepin’”, took me places in my emotions in my dreams that was more powerful than I imagine any narcotic might achieve. I wanted my music to do that. I am sure MTGTB has hit that mark with Pandammick!

Describe your creative process when you write new music.

It really varies—according to purpose. When I first started composing songs, I would create something on piano, then come up with a melody. Now most often I start with the lead vocal and then the vocal harmony. That started with my first micro-cassette, into which I would sing an idea as soon as it came into my head. Now, I record ideas into my cell phone Who’s your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?

My ideal collaborator is always someone who is not just wanting to hurry up the creative process, just

Which instrument is your least favorite to play and how do you make sure you play it well?

Perhaps…hmmmm…Electric organ. I am not an expert. When I have to lay an organ track, I learn the role and perfect my performance. But I’m no way a natural on tone-wheel electric organ. The key to mastering that instrument is working the stops and volume pedal with a singer-like emotional dynamic.

What do you like most about playing music?

I enjoy entering what can often seem like another

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to get another notch in their writing pen. I really have been enjoying collaborating with my MTGTB brothers. Especially with how Aljay and I have been clicking, it feels like what I’ve learned about the famous [Beatles] Lennon and McCartney collaborative process and products. With Mark (as well as Aljay) sometimes its like the Bernie Taupin/Elton John process where Taupin would send lyrics to Elton who’d flesh them out into great songs we know and love.

Aljay and Mark can tell you that I am an indefatigable lyricist. Even our song “A Few Things I Like” came from the comment line of an email containing a list of current styles on charting at that time. I though that line would make a great song. I wrote some lyrics, Aljay added a great melody and some more lyrics. We fleshed those components and delivered a heartfelt song about true romance that can lead to a fairytale come true.

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

The four that immediately come to mind are Stevie Wonder, Al Jerreau, Chick Corea, Sly Stone. They create worlds…immersive and transportive. I love the intelligent but very approachable lines lyrically, melodically, and supported so eloquently harmonically.

Describe your favorite venue for performing.

I have always enjoyed nice tight acoustically sound spaces like auditoriums, large acoustically sound churches, and box-theaters. I have played arenas; I haven’t thus far enjoyed playing them or even being in the audience at those venues.

Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

Art and literary joined with my training as an arranger and composer. For me they all merge in in the tight space between my ears that project beyond borders.

Tell me about your favorite performance in your career.

That would be opening for then newly Grammy Award winning Contemporary Gospel singer Reba Rambo at Detroit’s Ford Auditorium. It was the first take I glimpsed of what I thought stardom was. I was in a Contemporary Christian Music band. We were getting interviewed by radio station correspondents; were coming up to us on the sidewalks around Ford Autorium. A very popular Christian radio personality for the most popular Christian FM station (that would not give our albums any airplay) introduced us to the audience. The very next day, the venue was in a small Michigan town, set up in a classroom with maybe 20 people in our audience. …a Cliff Notes’ experience about the reality of the music biz.

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Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience?

As a band, that was at HBC/U Grambling State started in 1977, at HBC/U Mississippi Valley State University. In rehearsal, few days before the date, Mark, Marlon, came up with a funkin’ rockin’ riff hook song [similar in impact to Edgar Winter’s “Frankenstein”]. It came together so quickly that it had to be divine providence…so it seemed. At the venue, we blazed through the first set; the crowd was with us.

We started the second set with that song that will live in infamy. The song “Sonny Boy” rang out and filled the place. About six minutes into the song, I looked up from my keyboard to see the audience had mostly all left. I learned to always engage with the audience.

Which qualities do you think make a great musician?

My best quality list starts with feeling what one’s bandmates are feeling. That’s how solid grooves come about. If we feel like family in our music, that invites the listeners and live listening audiences to be part of this MTGTB family.

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Photo of Bailey Elora by Ricky Zastrow @coloradophotoworks // @baileyeloramusic