Musiek Apr 1st Issue by Urban Tymes Media

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INSIDE 28.

Contents

Buzzworthy: Claudia Nelson-pg 10 Radio Play: ITZ MORE THAN MUSIC RADIO-pg 14 Worldwide: Ayo Solanke-pg 17 Sabelo Soko- pg 24 Luc Lang- pg 22 Movers and Shakers: Kareesh Forreal -pg 18 Antoine Dunn -pg 28 Black Jewelz -pg 34 6

NessaSary pg 40

Coming from an extensive background in music and working with many indie artists for many years, I wanted to do more to help those creative souls who travel a hard road exposing their talents. As the shift in resources and outlets for indie artists become limited or pose as a high-end investment requirement, many artists today soon give up and silence their voice. There had to be a way to help give them to be heard beyond the lyrics of their music...thus we create Musiek Magazine. My hopes are to highlight indie artists who deserve a platform to speak and encourage other artists through their stories & experiences not to give up on their craft. I truly want everyone to share this magazine not just to make this magazine "hot" but to help the artists we highlight reach more people through our publication. I'm excited for all that we will accomplish with Musiek Magazine and I look forward to helping many artists reach new heights through our publication. Demario Mcilwain Founder & CEO JDS Certified Inc. 704.412.1537 www.jdsonlinemarketing.com info@jdsonlinemarketing.com Follow Me: https://twitter.com/onlinedemario Like Me: https://www.facebook.com/jdscertifiedinc Connect With Me: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/demariomcilwain/45/377/201

My goal has always ben to introduce to others the talent and abilities of those that are around us daily. My experiences with artists of various genres and talent gives a unique perspective to their dreams and goals, and that needs to be shared to the masses. I still remember sitting in a cafeteria talking to two brothers that told me of their music and how they are going to NY and become famous. While listening to their demo, I was amazed by their talent. Those brothers were KC and Jo Jo. , And well, you know the restâ&#x20AC;Ś.. Working with DeMario, I know Musiek will be a vehicle for those artists, producers, DJs and venues that remember the beauty of music and how it connects us. To sit and listen to the first tracks , the story of sacrifice, and the success gained. This is the purpose of Musiek!

Carey Digsby Editor/CEO Urban Tymes Media www.urbantmedia.com https://www.facebook.com/urban.tymes https://www.instagram.com/urbantmag/ https://twitter.com/urbantmag

Buzzworthy

The Bay Area is about to be blessed

Claudia

with

"Amnesia" the title of rising starlet Claudia Nelson's sweet sounding melodic single. The single release is a collaborative effort by the young starlet, who teamed up with hit maker Mr Sef and songwriter Luc Lang to cook up what will be her first single as an R&B artist. Currently an independent fashion model with an impressive homegrown fan base she is stepping into the R&B music world and toting her fan base along with her. "Amnesia" was born when songwriter Luc Lang approached Claudia about music he was currently penning. He simply requested her to demo the material but upon hearing amnesia Claudia was immediately drawn to it, identified with it and requested it to be released as her single. Mr Sef was approached in the matter and agreed to help put the song together to make it a certified hit! Amnesia is expected to rush swiftly through Bay Area cities and leave listeners with a woozy feeling in anticipation on what will come next from Miss Claudia Nelson.

Nelson Written by Luc Lang

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaudiaL Nelson 11

A brand new innovative platform has hit the underground, independent and major world in the music industry.â&#x20AC;Ś..

ITZmorethanmusicRADIO! 14

You can listen to ITZmorethanmusicRADIO online @ www.KocRecords.com or stream on our Interactive Mobile App #TheDiktatorApp at www.DiktatorApp.com. ITZmorethanmusicRADIO's first two mixshows were In honor of K.O.C Records 10 year Anniversary. We have created a musical timeline with over 2 hours of Diktator's music. In the "10 Year Era Of K.O.C Records AC (After Change) mix show hosted by Diktator & DJ Polo highlights Diktator's new releases, present and unreleased exclusive tracks broadcasting his evolution as an artist. In the "10 Year Era Of K.O.C Records BC (Before Change) mix show hosted by Diktator & DJ Polo contains Diktator's earlier music before he evolved into the artist he is today. Diktator's Musical Inspiration was represented very well in these 2 exclusive mix shows on ItzMoreThanMusicRADIO so be sure to check that out. The purpose & direction for ItzMoreThanMusicRADIO is to give listeners music they should hear & information they should know in an archive to conveniently stream around any of their plans through life. Our goal is to positively uplift communities around the world. Diktator's head start in technology within the music industry, has provided an innovative way for fans and followers to give shout outs as well as drops from their smart phones and other mobile devices through #TheDiktatorApp. This exclusive feature sets ItzMoreThanMusicRADIO apart from its competition making it easier for anyone around the world to be a part of a movement first hand that evolved into a revolution. Enter a new wave, feel and energy in radio. Welcome to the Kingdom Of Change! Itz More Than Music Itz A Revolution! The Leader!

www.KocRecords.com www.DiktatorApp.com ItzMoreThanMusicRadio@yahoo.com (980) 216-8893 15

A remarkable man and musician, the Jazz

MM: Have you any projects approaching? AS: Yes, we are in the process of finalizing my first solo project "The Journey", scheduled to be released this year.

sounds from his saxophone sends rhythmic messages to your soul. With every note he entangles your mind into the vibe.....ahhhhh music to my ears. Gifted with talents and sharing his gifts with MM: How wonderful has this experience been the world playing unto the Lord, Solanke has been for you? AS: It has been very exciting. It's like watching a beautiful child grow which in this case it is a "brain-child" with a lot of potentials. We are happy, delighted and can't wait to share this amazing music with the world.

AYO SOLANKE â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Newest Rising Star of the Contemporary African Artistsâ&#x20AC;?

MM: Tell us a little about the project AS: this project was born in the midst of a tough challenge in my life. Everything fell apart and it seems as if the world was going to collapse. I lost my car, had to depend on friends for accommodation, my clothes were getting faded and tore off one by one. In short, it was the lowest time of my life but something told me to make lemonade out of the lemon life threw at me and that was how it all began and today I'm grateful for the gift that has emerged. MM: Who is Ayo Solanke the musician? AS: Ayo is a man of vision. My greatest desire is to be relevant and to touch lives all over the world with my music, inspiring them to be better and to see endless possibilities through the way I live my life, the way I do my work. In short, leading by example. MM: We look forward to following your movements in the industry, congratulations on your success and much success to you. Thank you again for your time.... AS: Thank you for chatting with me. In closing I will like to leave you with this

compared to American muscian Waymon Tinsdale. He has recorded with the likes of Kirk Whalum, Hugh Masakela and Zahara Solanke climbs the indie charts fast! Urban Times International is excited to have an opportunity to chat with Ayo!

quote "Make it ok to fail, make it ok to lose but make it a point never to give up no matter what." Thank you again, have a great life.

MM: Greetings Brother, Thank you for your time! Please introduce yourself to the readers. AS: my name is Ayo Solanke, I'm a saxophonist based in South Africa and I'm so glad to be talking to you today.

Contact details: ayosax@gmail.com info@ayosolanke.com Twitter: @ayo_solanke Facebook: Ayo Solanke Music Soundcloud & Reverbnation: Ayo Solanke 17

Singer , Radio Host, Businesswoman

This Is……

Kareesh Forreal 18

So tell us…who is Kareesh Forreal? In your own words. A multifaceted entertainer & business woman. I am down to earth and caring individual who has been through so much & captivate each experience and tell the story through my music or whatever I can use to connect with my fans. I love sports, to travel, & take advantage of any opportunity to be a positive impact. I love all forms of art. I love to learn new things.

infusion of me, my experiences...something for everything. I'm an international artist and I fell in love with the elements of old school hip-hop, studying, working, and/or meetings with pioneers of the industry. I also wanted to have a lighter note of having a good time vs the music glorifying death, sex, & drugs.

Who is working with you on these tracks? Tell us your dream team! I'm also a writer, so you get that. I've collaborated with Maximus of Maximus Studios (Life of the Party). We co-wrote that song. The production process of the track was monumental, as we sat there together creating the elements of my homage to old school hip-hop/international & LA flair/Pop.

Well we know that you are a competitor, with a long standing history in Track and Field, has that drive, that desire to win, carried over into your work as an artist? Yes, it has. It is symbolic to me... discipline, drive, to be dogmatic, aware of the competition, yet be the best ME, IN MY OWN LANE. Consistency will allow me to cross the finish line and be at the top with a medal. Along the way, I continue to gain fans, momentum and victory. I’m always prepared no matter what the obstacles of the unknown may be. We had the opportunity to hear some of your work, such as Naked Kisses, Ain’t Built for You, and of course Life of the Party, which is banging! Seems to have that club hit mixed with anthem type vibe…. You gotta tell us what the inspiration behind it was! THANK YOU! I wanted to make my own sound. It’s an

â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are witnessing a mogul in the making.â&#x20AC;?

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m now experimenting with the production process, learning from Grammy nominated producer, QZ Da Musiqman. He's worked with various artists such as Calvin Richardson, Fantasia, to name a few. Other producers, Joe Breezie, Leomonza Production, have also contributed to my project, so Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m grateful to express my own sound and vision, bringing it to life. All tracks are customized for KAREESH. So between orchestrating myself or with the help of Kevin Fox, and my manager, Sammle McCall, I've been fortunate. I am very hands on, in a positive way, with my project to ensure my vision is executed. I have some other things in the works with notable music industry individuals that are very promising. Musician, VJ , Spokesperson, Model, what else can Kareesh do? I mean, what else is in store for you in this industry sis? LOL. I am a writer (plays/music/poetry), I am an actress also, and an artist (sketching painting,etc.) I put my all into what I am interested in and fully go into research, studying, and hands on to see if this is something that I like and voila! In this industry, you will see me as an actress, and also behind the scenes in production (music, live shows,) and a few Kareesh products. Some call me the female version of Jamie Foxx...LOL you are witnessing a mogul in the making. I'm also hosting one of my projects, Music Is My Sweetheart (c) talent competition. For all ages, uniting and healing through music.

your vision. A lot of people have dreams. This journey takes a lot of time, sacrifice, true investment (includes monetary) and it's not overnight success. Overnight success in industry terms is a minimum of 7-10 years of dedicated and proven work. To be successful in obtaining your dream, consistency is the key to reaching that. Don't be discouraged, be true with yourself. If something is not working, find ways to make it better or a derivative of that. And most of all, stay grounded and focused and balance, spiritually, mentally, and physically.

Kareesh Forreal E.A. of Certified Entertainment VP of Certified Media Group 704.390.3712

Parting words for our readers, pearls of wisdom that you could drop to those that are working hard to get to your level? I would like to take this time to thank all of my team and innercircle. I would say that a person who feels that they can do it all without the help of others is insane, you won't win. You will need a team that really is there for you, believe and respect you and

Luc Lang 22

oon to be stepping into the

world music scene as a songwriter Luc Lang has never been much of a stranger to the work ethic that is now putting once considered dreams, close within reach. Just as any 15 year overnight successes go, he is still busy at work on his next project with the kind of dedication that suggests he is just getting started! According to him he IS just getting started though. Luc started writing music at the age of 12, with aspirations of being a singer/songwriter until the material began to suggest that multiple artists would be needed as it became increasingly diverse. With passions ablaze he helped form Bermuda Triangle Music in 2008, with label mate and close friend Jason Hall AKA Ron Axident. After several years and an extensive catalogue the songs started to circulate (special thanks to Jackson Ellis of JE Media) and sessions with other artist became regular.

Africa and the couple decided to move there with new son, in 2014. While there Luc was able to network with many South African hip hop artists introduced to him by his wife and now while back in the states for the next few months has decided to connect South Africa's hip hop group PMB with a few of Richmond CA's top hip hop artists and form #TheBay2SA a collaborative effort with the end goal result of creating unity and smearing geographic & cultural lines with music.

As if this was not enough, mid-stream through this process Luc was contacted by Emmanuel and Hiriam of Y.B.M. Young Brilliant Moguls a division of The Artist Factory Atlanta and welcomed aboard as a San Francisco CA / Johannesburg based representative/songwriter for the soon to be global brand. Move after move has this upcoming songwriterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing starting to stack up high. Soon Luc will be high too! High in the sky on the flight back to Johannesburg SA to be reunited One particular session with with what he loves the most his 2 friend singer/songwriter Lena year old son Bophelo (means Ro, Luc penned "Heartbeat" an "Life" in Sotho language) and up-tempo hard hitting R&B beautiful wife Eustacia. After all smash that eventually caught the nothing compares to family! attention of Mr. Sef a well-known producer/hit maker out of Richmond CA. Mr. Sef invited https://www.facebook.com/ Luc to be a part of his brand GGI LucTLang Ent in January of 2013. Luc was afforded many opportunities to network with other talented writers and artists through his involvement with GGI Ent. Luc's wife is originally from the Johannesburgarea of South

Before recording his deb poetry EP, Sabelo Soko had spent more than a decade performing on various stages that propelled the spoken word movement closer to the mainstream. 2380, which is the postal code of his Piet Retief home town happens to be the title of this poetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offering. The usage of mainstream, hip hopinfluenced sound as the background music for his poetry is something new and fresh, and a formula that is rare, if not non-existent. His choice of the kind of sound was a well calculated risk that may be perceived by avantgarde/underground die hard poetry lovers as a sanitization of â&#x20AC;&#x153;realâ&#x20AC;? poetry, but the masses find it engaging, entertaining, and worth listening to. This was proven by his recent performance in his hometown, where poetry is not popular but the masses ate it up and even asked for more.

The entire disk is a virtual journey through the post apartheid South Africa, seen from the eyes of a young black man struggling to make sense of his country’s internationally celebrated democracy. His poetic social commentary, amplified by his powerful and husky voice basically gives the listener an opportunity to travel through South Africa, a beautiful country made up of rainbow colours, and decide whether it’s worth celebrating. The intro aptly opens with a line; “word world , welcome to my world”. And from that moment, one gets hooked as you get a glimpse of the world that has shaped him, his art, what he has witnessed, and experienced, which makes sense why most his content is so dense. The track that comes after the intro, “Corridors of History”, explores the merits of the current state of affairs in the land of Mandela. The piece is lamentation triggered by “stolen dre

about the kind of entrapments that many young women face, in their quest to get education. From the preying BEE (black economic empowerment) beneficiaries to many other unsavory characters, the poet gives a useful guide to the naïve and gullible girls who come to this city (Joburg) in search of gold. This chilling track is bound to get anyone with a heart “How Could I” delves further into issues of child abuse, women abuse, patriarchy, home economics, power struggles, and uses an empathetic tone, as opposed to patronizing, but inspiring take on the struggles that women face on a daily. “How Could I” is a story about a girl who is still recovering from childhood wounds inflicted to her by an evil stepfather who abused her, from a very young age. The girl’s mother had to make a hard choice to keep quite, fearing to lose the household’s breadwinner, the

Sabelo Soko ams and broken screams”, which Sabelo claims are echoing in the corridors of power. He goes deeper into that narrative, by generously speaking truth to power in track 4, titled “Confusion.” On this one, he literally pisses on the rainbow nation idea, the status quo, and his country’s democracy, which he suggests to be a farce. Confusion takes the listener to the side of life that most dread to talk about. The old survival complications that black still face in their home country, long after apartheid ended. This sentiment is expressed throughout the CD, as other songs/poems/tracks delve into various aspects of the South African socio-economic landscape, which are expressions of those echoes in the corridors of power he speaks of. Another interesting factor that comes out when one listens to the CD is that the guy is not shy to embrace his softer side. His spirit of solidarity, love and appreciation of female members of the South African population, who occupy different social positions, is felt on a few women-inspired tracks. Uzibheke, which means “be on a look out” in his mother tongue, isiZulu is a brotherly warning to a little sister coming to study in the boogie city known as Joburg. The poem talks

perpetrator of this sordid crime. From the young students he is talking to in Uzibheke, to the eerie narrative of “How Could I”, one gets a sense that this dude is concerned with the vulnerability of women and girl children in the hands of man. The artist’s view of women is also expressed in two other tracks that celebrate the greatness of women as. “Feels Right” and Eduze Kwami (Close To Me). Feels right is the first ever romantic poetry-ballad duet I’ve heard, is a greatly executed experiment. In this piece he features Vangi Gantsho, a very soft-spoken and yet powerful poet with whom Sabelo has a hardto-miss chemistry. The contrast in their voices makes this poetic ballad over a laid back sounds gives the listener an opportunity to hear of the poet’s softer side. The track is reminiscent of two classic Eryka Badu duets, One, featuring Busta Rhymes, and “Love of My Life”, featuring Common. In this track, the poet gives praises to historic African powerful figures such as Nefertiti (Great Royal Wife of Akhenaten, an Egyptian Pharaoh) and M’kabayi (King Shaka’s aunt) in a way that can make any man want to fall in love with a black woman. 25

When you hear music from this Cleveland born musician, one’s mind goes back. There are elements within his sound that are reminiscent of the early sounds of R&B, a time when the contents of the song were expressed by the singer in ways that became…timeless. Antoine’s ability to take that essence and fast forward to today’s music scene is nothing short of, well a blessing! Listening to tracks from his album “Truth of the Matter” reinforces this, showing an artist that has watched and listened to those that have paved the way in R&B and Gospel, while still honing his craft.

Antoine Dunn

You mentioned in an interview that you thought good R&B didn’t go anywhere, but that the spotlight changed from pure I’d say that honesty, purity, and subject mat- music to making a buck. 2017, where is ter that is relatable among many are at the good R&B now? I still believe that good top of my list when it comes to songwriting. authentic music is still here. Look at artists I believe that people gravitate towards what like KEM, John Legend, and John Mayer. is true no matter what; so that's why 90% of Sometimes - like a good woman…You don’t my work stems from true life experiences. I always find her on the surface, but she’s was always fascinated by the strength that that diamond in the rough that's always can come from allowing you to be vulnerabeen there. I can’t speak for the rest of the ble industry, but I plan on continuing to make music from my soul that will be in the spotIn your single “Miss My Love” the song light. That’s why I always say that Antoine and the video concept reminds you of Dunn is #WhereGoodMusicLives. the early soulful days of Motown, even down to the car in the video and your ensemble! Would you say that your connection to rich soul is correct? So 2012 you dropped “Truth of the Matter” then your sophomore album in 2013 Absolutely! I’ve been inundated with my “I AM”, you’ve worked with Anthony parents Motown collection since conception. Hamilton, Estelle, Kem, Keith Sweat, and lol. It was only natural that the influences others. You got a lot of time in the indusfrom the 70’s found their way into some of try so tell us, what is next? the music that I write. Those records really became a part of my spirit musically, and as Again, this is a new chapter for me and my a person. fans to grow. The new single, "I’m Gonna Love You” is HUGE, but just the beginning. I’ve had a lot of time to be in my thoughts So let’s talk about your upcoming single and really get ready to step back into the “I’m Gonna Love You” describe to us the spotlight. I’m Ready. You can plan on concept behind the song hearing and seeing a lot more of me very Wow. I’d say that "I’m Gonna Love You" is soon! the opening chapter to a new book in the life of Antoine Dunn. The musical composition Again brother…..your sound is rich and tells its own story independently of the lyrvery reminiscent of the early soul stirics. I’m so excited about it! The song holistirings that laid the foundation today. If cally speaks to a surrendering of one's self you could travel back through time to to believing in love - even if it is for one last collab with one of those artists, who time. Love - like life is not easy, but neceswould it be? sary. So I think all the people out there will enjoy it. Find someone to love and hang in hmmm…That's tough! lol lol. All in all, I’d there. Lol. have to say “Stevie Wonder.” I feel like we’d have a lot in common musically, plus I performed for him back home in Cleveland and he’s just such a nice guy! What is important to you in writing music?

(@ANTOINEDUNN http://antoinedunnexperience.com/

When you hear

the stories about an up and coming rapper, how they have street cred, discovered by an already established artist in the game, or even an actor or ball player trying their hand, thinking they too have “bars.” But this story paints a different picture. It speaks of an artist who began composing lyrics at about 11-12 years of age. Who would have lunch money, but skip eating lunch to save up the couple dollars to buy the

next rap CD he wanted. Whose lack of a steady, positive influence in his life yielded rappers From the depths of street life to open mics, to building a makeshift studio in his closet with the bare essentials to hone his sound. The result of his sacrifice and study of the craft, he was the recipient of the 2014 International Music Entertainment Association (IMEA) award for hip-hop rap album of the year for “Black Market.” During our interview, he spoke with an experienced vision like those musicians he’s watched over the years…..

Black Jewelz By CWspeaks

Reading up on you, one thing that really grabbed me was that you write poetry. Can you share with our readers about that part of you?

mies out to kill you, and I’ve seen friends disappear into the afterlife. I am the streets, and I’ll never abandon the streets. The gutter. I rap for the streets; to uplift. Rappers act like rapping for the streets I started writing poetry because of Tupac. means reinforcing/bragging about the At first I never knew he wrote poetry, nonsense that keeps people ignorant and when I found out it inspired me to try to destroys communities–such as guns, write poetry myself. I was around 14 drug-dealing, reckless sexual behavior, years old; I never thought I’d actually ever disrespecting women, etc.–NO. That’s not be considered “a poet.” Writing poetry rapping for the streets, that’s rapping for seemed like something completely farthe beast AKA the prison system. That’s fetched and intangible for a kid like me. not helping anyone in the streets! That’s Surprisingly, when I tried it, it just kind of only killing them! I don’t care what anyone flowed naturally. It became a new habit says, I rap for the streets. If I’m talking and method to express myself as a kid. I knowledge, it’s for the streets. If I’m spitnever stopped and over the years have ting raw, if I’m spitting something abstract gained a reputation for having an arsenal or futuristic–it’s for the streets. I want kids of poetry at hand. I still write poetry; most to see that you can rise up not only from of the poems I’ve written have never been that environment but, more importantly, heard or even seen. And might never be, from the mentality of the streets. No matuntil I’m gone. ter how far I go or how my style progresses, I rap for God and the streets. Period. Many of the artists that are out talk about a street life, yet yours wasn’t just The fact that you didn’t let that setback deter you from graduating high school, about talk. How has that season in is a testament to your tenacity. You your life affected you? have a true “no quit attitude deep withThe streets was basically the only place I in.” ended up being able to turn to as a kid. I True indeed, thank you. I owe that all to was always an outcast, always rejected God. I actually didn’t care about school at and put down; never really fit in like I’d wished. And I hated being at my place of the time, I was always getting in trouble. Always. Somehow I made it to senior residence. The streets became the only year, then I got arrested in school during place I had to go, & the first place I ever the second week and was expelled. felt really welcome. Mix that with the “cool” factor reinforced by Hip-hop culture Shortly after that I became a true Christian and everything changed. I found (which basically says when you’re from the streets you’re officially cool) and it just hope. When I was out living that life it was because I was hopeless & felt completely became my life, who I was. I am the worthless. Now I gained hope–I found streets. I lived the street life & all that came with it. I literally lived in the streets. purpose. God gave me motivation to be much more than I was at the time. So I Like, literally. Not like people who talk graduated high school then a few years about running the streets because they drive through streets to go clubbing or get later graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences. I went from being some drugs from my people … the first hopeless to now being relentless. time (of countless many) that I slept outside (all alone) I was 15–and there were piles of snow outside. That’s 100 facts. It’s said that your skill is fire with acaAnd I don’t find it to be anything to brag pella flow, which is apparent in The about…at all. It’s not cool, like people try illeat, Real Rapp, and Murda Ink. Where to make it sound. I’ve seen some grimy does it come from? What does Black stuff, I’ve seen crimes that never made Jewelz tap into to bring that out? the news. I’ve seen friends become ene35

That comes from being broke, haha. I didn’t used to have any recording equipment whatsoever or any access to a studio. I didn’t have a laptop, or even a fancy iPhone with apps that make beats or record. All I had was ambition and lyrical ammunition. So I would just write bars and freestyle all day, and I eventually started hitting up open mics. Then I began writing what I called “lyrical compositions”–not exactly spoken word poetry and not exactly a 16-bar rap. It was like a hybrid of the 2. They weren’t just “poetic raps” because there was usually a specific theme or concept at the core of each one. I would also still write straight up raw ill raps but because I was now performing them I constructed them in a way that was more suited for that purpose. When you just write spontaneous bars, it doesn’t necessarily need to have, like, a definitive opening or closing line. The last bar is just the last bar. These joints were now actual compositions with a kind of beginning-middle-end structure. They had a mental flow as well as a verbal flow. This greatly advanced my style and skills without me even knowing it. And, obviously, I had to memorize them all so I was always ready at any given moment to unleash some lyrics that are meant for a cappella performance. As opposed to a rap that only sounds right with the corresponding beat behind it. So I kind of became known for this sort of unique style and delivery. The crazy thing is, like I said at first, it all came because of a major lack. But what often seems like a setback is really a setup to help mold you into who you’re meant to be.

The talent, the ability to stand on what you do, and the drive is there. What’s in store for Black Jewelz? What’s in store for Black Jewelz is just more progress. More exposure, more art, more BARZ! And, most of all, more love to give to the people. Black Jewelz Contact: - Facebook: Black Jewelz - Instagram/Twitter: @theblackjewelz - ReverbNation: Black Jewelz - YouTube: YouTube.com/WWFMOVEMENT - Website: www.theblackjewelz.com - Website: www.jeremiahskall.com - Booking Contact: 410-340-0165

So much is going on in the Hip Hop realm today. Do you see it as a lost art, or just one diverted off its true path? I see it as both, most definitely. It is a lost art because it has diverted off its true path. I don’t think cats really took it seriously when Nas said, “Hip Hop is Dead.” I remember there was a whole bunch of clamor and criticism about him saying that at the time, but it’s true! I’ll go as far as to say this, and I truly believe it: if Hip-Hop continues as it’s going now, there will be no more Hip-Hop in 15-20 years. The stuff they call Hip-Hop today is a complete joke. The common “Top 3” rappers today would’ve been just about average in the previous era. The game, at large, is already in a major decline. People don’t care about the real art form anymore, they just want to hear something they can hump somebody in the club to. Or use to make a dance routine in a video–put on some hoodies and feel like they're down with the streets. Where’s the realness? Where’s the honesty? Where’s the message for the people? … If people don’t wake up and stop being complacent, and just blindly taking in what the media & these labels put out, don’t be surprised if you no longer see or hear “Hip-Hop” in mainstream outlets in the future. 36

Music

Written by CWspeaks Demario McIlwain

NessaSary The music is always something we can’t let go. It finds us, and comforts us. Allows up to communicate to the world , and share our deepest thoughts . Interviewing the artist known as NessaSary was in short, eye opening and amazing. This sister has a voice that wants to be heard. A voice that was put on hold for a while, but now comes raging forth to take the world by storm! Are you ready for her? You and your siblings were exposed to many facets of music; did that develop a rivalry among you? Yes and no, we were all pretty much equal when it came to music. From early on, we would all do this thing called “rap-and-go” or “rap-and-pass” where we would do 4 bars a piece and pass it around. It was something like the wheels –on-the-bus, past the time situation. We always showed a lot comradery when it came to music, it was like our glue factor. Living with my mom, she really enforced education and things on a regular level, like, “go get a job” or “go get your education” but, music always was a scapegoat for everyone. We knew every song; my brother was a DJ so…it was more like an escape than a rivalry. My brother taught me the ins and outs of rap to enhance what was already in me. When I was 11, my brother wrote the first rhyme I ever rapped since that rhyme, I have never read or spit anyone else’s rhyme before like that. So it’s never been a rivalry – it’s always a comradery between me and my siblings. It seems that you’ve made many sacrifices prior to getting to this season of your career. Would you say that it was “NessaSary” for

that to occur? Unfortunately, it was necessary for me to have to leave my kids the way I did. That was one of the worst decisions I’ve had to make but probably one of the best. It allowed me to come out here and not only learn L.A. (Los Angeles), my surroundings, my craft and to get out here and learn how to survive in this business while getting into the groove of the music business & entertainment all together. I also learned more about myself by being completely alone. I had my kids when I was 19 during a time when I didn’t know completely who I was. Going from a teen to a completely responsible adult wasn’t an issue for me but, I never wanted kids, I was more like I’m out here chilling. I was never promiscuous, into super crazy partying or going down a bad road – but, the path I chose led me to having children which in turn helped me to grow a little quicker in the mind and it also hinder me a lot in getting to know who I was and sort out my thoughts. So coming to LA without them, at first, was a huge sacrifice and it wasn’t planned that way. It was an opportunity that I had to hop on at the moment and in the midst of that my child’s father was going through a serious legal battle and come not move. So he was like, I’m going to hold it down with the kids. But after he went “in” – it made it extremely difficult to continue on as it was but I still pushed through and made it work to where it is right now. That would be the most significant sacrifice I made early on. As I said it was the worst one but has opened a lot of doors for me. Describe when you made that decision to pack your things and move to Cali, what was going on in your mind at that time. At that time, a lot was going on in my mind. I was living in Ft Lauderdale in my homie’s condo trying to get to the next level in Miami when that fell through. That was the #1 thing going on in my mind.

”I like to think outside of the box. Currently, I’m trying to catch a vibe.”

The second thing was, if this is not going to work then I don’t have a place to stay or go. We had packed up everything and came to Miami off the pretenses that we would be staying there and getting things done. When that fell through it was like “where are we going to go next?” Also at that time, one of my best friends was getting ready to move to Cali. We had visited California before and loved it so, she was planning to return and become a travel nurse. Her original plan was to fly out and later ship her car. That plan fell through and she decided she was going to drive. Being that she didn’t want to travel alone, she invited me to come to Cali as we both had the same mindset to go and make moves in the area. At that time, I’m homeless with no place to go. My family and I are in two different cars packed up to the roof. It was a taxing situation for both, my partner and I because he’s going through a legal case. I was like, you’re staying here for a case but I don’t have to. I could try to venture out like a pioneer and get things done in California. So, after much convincing that’s what I did, although I didn’t want to live my kids. My son’s father lives in Georgia that was an easy call. He was like “he (the son) could come there while I go do what I had to do. In my mind, it was a swirl of responsibilities, a swirl of “OMG this has to work”. I really wanted it to work anyway…I loved Cali, whether I was a regular person or entertainer. The feel and energy out here is very different. So all those things were going through my mind and I just felt I had to make it. The same as I do now. So back then, my support system really helped encouraged me but not everyone I must say...

that’s it for you, you have to do everything for that child but I feel that’s just not true. That’s just an old school mind frame and that works for some. It worked for her and I appreciate everything she did as a mother. Her dream was to be a photographer and she put that on hold to make sure we had what we needed but she also had a small way of thinking being influenced from the south in thinking…what else are you going to do besides taking care of the kids and home? That’s very noble but, it’s not the true thing for everybody and may not be the right thing for everybody. So in my mind I was thinking, I have to be this person for my kids by getting a regular job that I absolutely hate that I couldn’t keep for a consistent 365 days. I working at Comcast, I hated it. People always calling and complaining, this was very draining for me because I try to be very positive because I was always very angry and depressed. At that time music wasn’t really prevalent in my life. Then it’s like music came around and said “hey…are you done b.s.’n come on back to the other side and let’s get this money, this inspiration. You have a lot to say and do in this industry”. So, yes….I don’t think we’re letting go of each other anytime soon.

Your Youtube “Rapisodes” have garnered an amazing following. How would you put into words, your style or flow of music? It’s really hard to put it into words. That question has actually gotten me into a lot of trouble with myself over the years. I find myself trying to be like a staple sound or style in how I do things but me being me I don’t think I have one although everyone else on the outside does. I learned this from someone who was It’s apparent that you and music never let go of each other…… I mean (LOL) was observing my music when we were in the studio. They were like “hey, you have a that a question or a statement. No, we unique style” they went on to say, “every didn’t. As much as I want to push it to the song, if you notice, you start off going slow side this feeling goes back to high school. and you gradually get faster or you start off Even then, I felt like I was going to be on. I fast and gradually get slower”. And that’s told you I started when I was 11 and this kind of a flow thing I do. I like to think was a real situation for me. When I ended outside of the box. Currently, I’m trying to up going to college, falling in love and having babies, I went back to that old thing catch a vibe. my mom taught me. Once you have a child

I'm just trying to catch a vibe in the track and how it makes me feel. I want the track to make me feel amazing and then the words are going to just come. But in other instances, I’m trying to give you a crazy and amazing flow. That’s what I came up listening to and that's what was soothing to me…a dope rapper with a dope flow it’s like wow, I can listen to whatever you have to say because you really are spitting and flowing right now. It’s easy on the ears and I can really pay attention you know what I’m saying? A lot of these musicians out here now are catching a vibe, it’s strictly a vibe. Correct me if I’m wrong but….we don’t really care what they are saying, we’re just vibin. Everybody on drugs or in whatever spiritual realm they may be in and feeling at

the moment don’t care what you are saying. We just like the feel of the music with your voice and cadence and it just makes a good marriage but for me personally, I have too many things to be said and have to create a clever way to integrate that lyricism with that vibe. That’s what I'm trying to create right now. When I think of a name or pacific why to describe it other than what I said, I’ll let you know. The single “Great” is truly a testimonial piece sis…..Give our readers your thoughts when you penned this single. “Great” has an interesting story. It came from a time of aggravation and turmoil.

As I told you I came over to LA along with my friend and my children were 3000 miles east. Basically, I was battling with now the father of my daughter who she was getting his sentencing. So now, he’s gone and I’m trying to figure out the next step for my daughter and me. Should I go back to the crib or should I bring her to where I am? Or is that even an option, what’s going on with my son??? It’s so many things going on in my mind at this point and I just feeling real defeated. At the time, I wasn’t as quick who saw myself and get back to that point of positive vibrational offering. It was all negative and I wasn’t getting any results. I few people such a Dirty and E.P. talked to me and I kind of came up out of it. Dirty was the main one who called me and we had an hour long conversation and he was like “look, I feel you”. He was someone who really empathized and basically was like I understand but we got to do this for them, we got to push through for them. Let’s make some classic music off the strength of the sacrifices you did make and let’s not let that go by the waste side and put that into our music. After that conversation, I instantly put the phone down, dried the tears up and starting writing. I had already started that song. It was a few stanzas written already a bunch of randomness and within a good hour I pieced everything together and squeezed out 3 verses by cutting some things short and it became a huge situation. The realness of that song and the way I spit it caught the attention of Tech N9ne. Tech is like a brother, a brother I never by the way he is so real about stuff. Looking at his career and how to model yourself after his success is a great example of how you can be independent in the game and how you can get what you need and want. There is no age limit or limit at all because his demographic you wouldn’t think of being a black man in America today. He paints his face, spittin and people gravitate towards that and un-

derstand you don’t have to be a pop artist or a certain type of artist to have a fan base to really be successful out here. So someone like that telling you “hey, I want to get on this track” you like absolutely….you can most definitely get on this track no question…you know what I’m saying? So I’m most defiantly I’m so grateful for that situation and collaboration took “Great” to the next level not only on YouTube but around the world. Who can’t relate? Everyone want to be great from my fans to Tech’s fan from a horrible situation and a horrible depressing feeling I was coming out of, I know there are other people who may be feeling the same every single day and they just want to be great in whatever they do. So, that record is like a staple of how I was feeling and know for a fact how others are feeling. I appreciate Tech N9ne for hoping on and help getting it farther than it could have ever gotten at that time which is me. Has there been any one in the industry that has truly motived your musical journey? Pretty much everyone I have come across whether good, bad, positive, negative or in between, have really motivated me. The negative people who have motivated me, tell me all the things I can’t do, shouldn’t say, shouldn’t do, and should change or whatever sometimes I take that constructive criticism with a grain of salt and sometimes they are absolutely right. Some situations motivate me stemming from a negative thing and some positive situation like Tech N9ne, he’s very motivating. He makes me feel like I can own my own stuff as an independent artist and be successful at the same time. I can be an independent artist on the Forbes list you know what I mean? It’s like the best of both worlds situation. So I would say everyone I come across from Florida, Georgia, LA and everyone I met on that national tour it’s all very motivating no question.

What’s next for NessaSary? Right now I’m focused on making some new music. I’ve taken a very long hiatus slash vacation slash stress session of life. I’ve had a lot of up and down in between the ways of trying to create music and it wasn’t clicking. My grind wasn’t completely there because there are a billion other things going on. Like I said, I’m a mother. My co-parent was locked up and he just came out this past November and we’re trying to adjust that situation. While here in LA, I trying to find and catch a vibe by meeting new producers and new artists every day, going to events and trying to stay very rele-

underground to “hip pop” as I like to call it. I listen to a very large range of things and feel like I want to mesh these things with inspirational quotes and ideas that I have in a very dope way. On the back burner, I’m working on a lot of projects and music that will be commercially place on TV shows. I just got a couple placement on the Vice channel and also the Oxygen network with the Bad Girl’s Club so listen out for that. In meantime, I’m going to stay working. This is my lively hood. I’m doing a lot of features, not so many performances as I’m building up my tracks. I know people like to listen to those old tracks

vant. People know who I am in these streets and they are waiting on me to blow just like you’re waiting for your favorite artist to blow. So I can’t let them down and I can’t let myself down so right now I’m just trying to stack my music up. If a project comes out of that, great. If a mixtape, another EP, album, single or whatever comes out of that…comes out of that but the number one thing is I got to go make some more music. I need to get these things out of my head that I really want to say to the people that I haven’t heard. I’ve heard it on another scale. Everyone’s ear is not eclectic as mine. I like to listen to all types of [music] from alternative, poppy to straight up

and I’m going to get back to it but for me I just want to progress. So I’m working on so new stuff, keeping my name hot in these streets and looking for more placements and that’s what’s poppin for Nessasary.

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