Editorial –October 2014 In trying to understand how we have come to a place where a Police Officer shoots and kills an unarmed Mike Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, followed by another incident in which Vonderrit Myers, is shot and killed in St, Louis, Missouri a few weeks later, I have reached out to law officials and civilians for opinions. 04
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Each side admits that my question is not an easy one, both sides admit that much needs to be done to ease the communities pain, but no one can tell me why these incidents keep happening in Missouri and across the country, and this is very troubling. Because we don’t have an answer as to why these shootings are taking place, at any point in time it could be your brother, husband, uncle, cousin, friend who is next. I don’t profess to know the stresses that Law Enforcement face day to day, and with the type of criminals who make crime front and center, but I do know how to communicate, and I do know how to speak to people who choose this career path and remind them that the people they meet on the job, whether good or bad, are human. The world will be a better place when we remember that fact. We are humans and need to be treated as if we are all related; as if the weapon-firing officer is the brother or sister of the person being fired upon. Connect with me on Twitter >>> @NatashaVonC
Congratulations Spike Lee
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Pioneer Award Recepient
10th Annual Montreal International Black Film Festival
Congratulations Chronixx
First Ever Caribbean Artist
On Jimmy Fallon Tonight Show
CATCHING FEVA IN CANADA
FEVA TV CONTRIBUTED
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It is long overdue, but we say better late than never! Welcome to the airwaves, the groundbreaking television station, FEVA TV! Canada’s newest television station hit the airwaves as FEVA TV, First Entertainment Voice of Africa Television, showcasing entertainment programming from Africa and the African diaspora in North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe. FEVA TV’s programming includes content from Nollywood, the world’s third-largest film industry after Hollywood and Bollywood. The channel also features music videos and programming in the Afro-Beat, Hip Hop, Reggae, Soca, Samba genres, as well as documentaries, concerts, variety shows, drama series, comedy shows and sports programs. Founded by Lancelot Imasuen, Lonzo Nzekwe, Kingsley Jesuorobo and Robert Onianwah, viewers are receiving quality international programs such as Planet Nollywood, a showcase of Nollywood films (from classics of yesteryear to the present blockbuster Nigerian and Ghanaian films), Top Boy, the acclaimed, gritty U.K. crime series, Catwalq, a Nigerian soap opera set in the glamorous fashion world, High Rollers, a South African drama set in the high-stakes world of big-money casinos, Jim Iyke ‘Unscripted,’ a reality show following bad boy Nollywood actor Jim Iyke, Omotola ‘The Real Me,’ a similar reality series about Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade (named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2013), and Making of a Mogul, hosted by award-winning Ghanian TV personality Anita Erskine, which profiles successful Africans around the world as they share their stories of building their brands and businesses. In addition to such acclaimed programming from around the globe, FEVA TV will also brings exclusive programming like Jam’ Balaya, a FEVA original that engages people on the streets around the world to talk about their favourite music genre, from Reggae to Dancehall, Afrobeat, Soca, Hip-Hop and R&B and will also showcase the latest videos. Additional shows of interest include 360 Feva, which showcases celebrities from Africa, the Caribbean, North and South America and their favourite videos as they chat it up on the famous FEVA “Red Couch.” Sooooo Special with Master T (Canadian broadcasting icon) interviews music legends from around the world. For more information visit www.FEVATV.com
Congratulations
WHAT IT IS TO
LOVE A CHILD CONTRIBUTED
The new Grand Miracle Market will feature premier shopping, entertainment, and dining; all in a safe, clean environment which reinforces Haiti’s economy. More than 800 vendor stalls will be available for a variety of small businesses to participate. Would-be marketplace vendors of produce, livestock, and handmade products and retail goods are encouraged to apply with Open Hand, Inc. (www.ohglobal.org) for available interest-free micro-loans to gain the needed resources for small business ownership. The Grand Miracle Market on-site offices opened yesterday morning for applicants interested in signing up to become vendors. Micro-lending, which is a part of Love A Child’s eight interrelated sustainability initiatives, is provided alongside crucial financial education and life skills training classes. These programs enable Haitian families to gain new marketable skills, earn reliable sources of income, and learn how to manage their money for the long-term. Love A Child’s continuous efforts in sustainable development offer many opportunities for job creation in Haiti, as well as a meaningful way to empower the Haitian people to help themselves. To learn more about the Grand Miracle Market, visit: http://www.loveachild.com/the-marketplace/. Founders Bobby and Sherry Burnette live year-round in Haiti at the Love A Child Orphanage. They are full-time missionaries who minister to the poorest of the poor in Haiti and work to spread the Word of God, showing Christ’s love by example. The Love A Child outreach programs include 14 schools, Love A Child Hope Center Orphanage, food distribution programs, the Jesus Healing Center, mobile medical clinics, and the sustainability initiative programs. For more information, please visit www.loveachild.com.
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Gwo Mache’ Mirak, or the Grand Miracle Market, is a new commercial development consisting of 10-pavillion-style buildings built on 20-acres (8-hectares) and located just 30 miles east of Haiti’s capital, in Fond Parisien, along the main route between Port-au-Prince and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Construction of the marketplace is being backed by Pastor Jentezen Franklin and the Kingdom Connection Partners, who committed to the $1,000,000 needed to build the facilities.
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As part of its program to help the people in Haiti to address the challenge of self-sustainability, Love A Child, a nonprofit organization based in Fort Myers, Florida, has announced nearly 2,400 new jobs could soon be added to the Haitian economy. The largest marketplace in Haiti, Gwo Mache’ Mirak, is set to open in September 2014.
ART THROUGH THE EYES OF
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FREESTYLE
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CONTRIBUTED One of the benefits of art is that a medium can be used to remind viewers of a piece of history they may have forgotten, or open the eyes to those who may not know significant historical figures of a particular genre, or era in world history. In the case of Reggae and Dancehall, and the combined culture, there are key members whom are referred to as foundation, and artist Michael Thompson, aka Freestylee has not only acknowledged some of these members, his interpretation of their image can only be described as a visual vibration … the essence if you will, of the subject. Freestylee’s influences are not exclusively Jamaica or Jamaican so it is important to note that liberation movements in Southern Africa were inspiring as were the struggles in Latin America. Michael’s website is a treasure trove of finds which can be ordered on canvas or print for hanging in your office or home. This month, we focus on the artists prints reflecting Reggae and Dancehall’s foundation. Please visit his virtual gallery via his website http:// freestylee.net/ and in the meantime, we have to seriously decide which prints to order!
ART IN FOCUS
COWGIRL ZEN PHOTOGRAPHY
ESSENTIAL NEW SKIN & BEAUTY BOOK BY
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CONTRIBUTED
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Carla ‘Babbzy’ Babb is a successful media personality who is Canadian born to Bajan parents and is most popularly known for her #1 Caribbean blog website www.strictlybabbzy.com in which she shares news about artists, and the salacious goings on of public figures based in the Caribbean. In addition to being known for media, Babbzy has become a trail blazer in the world of skin care and beauty. Hher book, The Black People’s Guide to Perfect + Blemish Free Skin has become an international best seller. Suffering from adult acne, Babbzy consulted with several dermatologists who were not able to treat black skin, which resulted in several disappointments, and not having the skin she so desired. Black heads, white heads, oil and more gave her motivation to seek remedies to cure her dermatological imbalance. Written at her home in Toronto, Babbzy condenses best skin practices, and best beauty products to use to achieve the result of flawless skin. The 8 chapter book covers cleansing, toning, moisturizing, treatments for acne, treatments for acne scarring, must haves and well as do’s and don’ts. It also recognizes the effects of hormonal changes, stress and environment factors which can contribute to the change in chemistry in a person’s skin, and the price tag of $5,000 to $10,000 to treat those blemishes. Being in front of the camera on a weekly basis and being seen by thousands of fans around the world, Babbzy knows how emotional it can be for people to comment on the health of her skin. Preparing for her book launch, Babbzy said “black people are not known to have ‘bad’ skin and we are not known to have adult acne. When we do get it, we cannot go to a regular dermatologist because he / she is not sensitive to our skins needs, and effective ways to treat our problems. We need treatment specific to our skin type, and this book gives that to people with those needs.”
AN EVOLUTION
In the time line of fashion history, and for some odd reason, the female version from the genus of Homo Sapien has felt this need to contort, torture, remove, reform, bend, smooth, elongate, shorten, slenderize, manipulate, enlarge and in general cause all kinds of needless afflictions to their bodies. Why?! This billion dollar a year industry facade of ‘fomp’ulantive mega delusions has been sold to womankind ever since the fig leaf didn’t quite hold in Eve’s farm girl spread and Eve’s two farm girl’s! It would seem since 2100 BC Cretan women folk thought it a good idea to lift their knockers to accentuate and elevate ‘thing one’ and ‘thing two’ whilst of course leaving them uncovered (those Cretan show girls you know), then pieces of leather were attached to the undergarment and tightened so ‘natural’ enhancement would be the social call of the day at the Mediterranean beach blanket bingo ... and anything Crete did ... well the Egyptian girls weren’t too far behind. They were not going to let anyone get a chirpy boob up on them! Of course with the bust - we must - go to the waist. Around the period of time when artificial breast lifting enhancement competitions were taking place, the Minoan Snake priestesses (you see there was a reason God cursed the serpent and took away their legs), began wearing a form shaping vest with leather rings/straps that constrict/shape the waist.
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CONTRIBUTED
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SPANX A LOT
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Fast forward a few years, and welcome to the progression of rib crushing audacious devices women insist on using. Not only were women perking their breasts, and squeezing their ribs, but now with the invention of bustles, petticoat’s, bloomers and crinoline’s (‘crin’ is the French for horsehair and ‘lin’ the threads it was woven with, please note in the 1850’s horsehair gave way to steel hoops) the extreme of puritanical stockade fashion had made it’s undignified arrival. The lady of the house would grasp the bed post, and hold on tightly, as her kindly maid ranked with all her might till her mistresses eyes bulged out of her head. Pulling, and pulling the garment tighter and tighter till at times history tells us that many women, all in the name of fashion, cracked ribs, ruptured spleens, bruised kidneys and even passed out because they could not breathe. When an undergarment such as this is worn, breathing can only take place in the upper lung, thus inhibiting the necessary oxygen to the brain ... hence the term ‘airhead’ perhaps?! It is now 1910, and somewhere in the endless piles of viscose rayon, velvets and gold brocade in the fashionista land of France, the French clothing designer, Paul Poiret, makes his assertion in the world of tormenting devices for women. His claim, his quote (and I kid you not) is, “I freed the bust, and I shackled the legs.” Oh great, well thank you sir for allowing breasts to flow freely, but for reminding women everywhere that they were still shackled somehow to your trifling perceptions of demented goddess proportions. Yes, yes it is true, from the fashion designs of Poiret, the glamorous aesthetics of the ubiquitous girdle did give us the sultry motions we still enjoy in the form of a noir motion called, Rita Hayworth, Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe, but at what cost to the female psyche? Lest it be forgotten men all too often feel that women are the deceivers and this pushing, pulling, tucking and shifting may just keep adding to this fire. Eventually all things upright must fall, and as society moves into the 60’s bra’s were burned, and undergarments were all but virtually forgotten. Women broke free from what they thought was expected of them and their body’s for a while. Peace evidently didn’t hold itself for too long in the land of Hollywood with “Gomer Pyle” or somewhere in middle America on “Green Acres.” Because the girdle held her latex elasticity through the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and in some varying degrees until today, we now call them “Spanx.”
I am a woman writing this opinion tongue and cheek article and not once in my research did I run across a man who felt women should wear torturous clothing to please them. Yes, they did admit that once in awhile a little game of ‘dress up night darling’ was very much appreciated and yearned for, but never did I run across a man who would relegate women to such atrocious pain. It seems we women only think it is what they want all the time, but really we women have just sold ourselves a harrowing bill of false goods. As well, I have only tried on the under bust Spanx for the purposes of understanding how my plus size models that I photograph feel, and yes I tried on a regular steel corset too and screw it, I like my jeans, t-shirts and cowgirl boots. Buy me a trip around the world and I may consider a corset another time. So, I must ask the question, Eve. Who told you your hips were too wide and your stomach too pooched and your breasts too saggy? Could it have been that old liar... the serpent? It certainly wasn’t Adam ... he was too worried you thought his male organ was too small!
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Spanx, made from a light weight material, has now become the alternative gear for this century. The understanding is that they are a far, far more comfortable contouring undergarment to wear, but if you live where it gets to 112 degrees plus, why would anyone want that plastered to their skin? According to Spanx’s new advertisement for their “Bra-vo bra we all should, “give three cheers, for Bra-vo, the latest back smoothing bra from SPANX that ‘s sexy on every size!” (the ad includes a picture touting they carry up to a 44 DDD) So, at least there is a company trying to please both sides of the T and A coin.
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Yes, we have come a long way but for some reason fashion and the celebrities of the day still carry the ‘weight’ on how woman present the contours of our bodies imagery. Control issues seem to abound, even in our clothing we’re defending something which perhaps Freud may have an answer for.
BEAUTY TIPS ALL ABOUT LIPSTICK
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by KAY CUNNINGHAM www.makeupbykayce.com
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I have never a big fan of lipstick, until I entered the world of cosmetics! Prior to that, it was all about lip gloss, even after formal training with beauty brands. One of the hardest things for a woman to get right is choosing the best lip colours. Back in May, I wrote about skin tone and undertone, so use the tips I mentioned to find your perfect lipstick shades. Here are my Lipstick must-have’s:
Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick:
Our Caribbean Princess Rihanna has launched Mac’s Viva Glam Lipstick and lip glass, it’s blue-red with a frost finish suits skin tones of cool or neutral but if you think you can pull it off go for it! Any purchases less Vat / Tax of this lipstick and lip glass goes towards helping women, men and children everywhere affected by HIV / AIDS. It’s Limited-edition, has a lovely red packaging and features RiRi’s signature. Available at Mac Counters or www.maccosmetics.com
Arbonne Lipstick:
Still can’t get enough of Arbonne, you will always find this brand in my makeup case, the lipsticks are long wearing feather resisting that glides on easily and build up for full coverage, intensely condition the and hydrates the lips. For cool tones try Scarlet, Bardeaux, Mauve, Strawberry, Vintage Rose, Jam and Candy. For warm and neutral tones try Earth, Shell, Satin, runway Rouge, Coral Reef, Rose Petal and Copper. The Key ingredients are wild mango butter, pomegranate extract, aloe barbadenis leaf extract, Vitamins A, C and E, Non Lead Cosmetics. You can order online www.arbonne.com or one of you Independent consultant near you!
Avon Extra Lasting Lipsticks: It’s Moisturising high definition lipstick with fresh wear com-
ing for the brand, and the only way I can describe it is, it reminds me of primer before putting on the painting to a wall. Once you use kiss kiss liplift primer, your lips will be saved! It stops lipstick bleed, and its’ smoothing base in stick form redefines contours, smoothes and prepares the lips with very long-lasting wear. With its creamy, rich and supple texture it’s very smooth and once applied it shapes the lips leaving it prepared for a long lasting hold. It only comes in 1 universal shade. You can get this product at any Guerlain counter or online www.guerlain.com
Trish McEvoy Long Wear Lip Liner: Trish’s Long-Wear Lip Liner is a must have for anyone,
they come in two shades Barely There (medium nude) and Barely Nude (soft nude) can match with most lipsticks as the liner matches your lip line to give a natural and define look, it glides on easily, adheres instantly and stays put to resist feathering and define lips with pigment-rich, natural-looking color. My Tip on Applying lipstick and liner: apply lip care for moisture, then use your preferred lip primer, apply lipstick, then a lip liner, avoid dark liner with bright lip shades it’s a dated look, I normally apply liner from outer to center of the lip. Use a matching concealer around lip line for a smooth finish. For any questions or feedback visit www.makeupbykayce.com
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Guerlain Kiss Kiss Liplift Primer: I first discovered this amazing primer 8 years ago work-
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plex to last up to 8 hours. It feels luxurious with a silky satin finish. They come in 12 shades to choose from with SPF15. For cool skin tones try Forever Pink, Pretty In Pink, Enduring Wine, Mauve Ice, Pink Perfection, Ravishing Rose and Vintage Pink. For Warm and Neutral skin tone try Cappuccino, Eternal Flame, Pink Peach, Totally Twig and Fiery Red. My personal favourites are Pink Peach and Cappuccino. Get them online www.avon.com
SACHA COSMETICS
Below are 3 palettes I have tried out and the results were flawless. Sacha Cosmetics Cream Foundation Palette – This is a 10 piece light weight palette that comes in light-to-medium and medium-to-deep sets, it’s very easy to use for dewy look use alone, for a more matt finish apply with finishing powder, this is a most have for any Makeup Artist. Sacha Cosmetics Concealer palette – It’s a professional palette that contains six shades of each of the following: Concealer, Eye Primer and Cream Contour for sculpting. The good thing about this palette you can mix the shades. It’s easy to use; just apply with a concealer or contouring brush, apply after your foundation for best results. Sacha Cosmetics Face palette - is a 10 Compact Powders in one lightweight palette that is so easy to use you can achieve the look you want with just a few applications. Use after on top of foundation and concealing/contouring, suitable for all skin types. For any questions or feedback email: info@makeupbykayce.com
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All their products can be purchased on www.sachacosmetics.com
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I discovered this brand last year thank God for Instagram! This brand is from Trinidad and Tobago and has been around for over 20 years. This is a must have for any Professional Makeup Artist or anyone who wants to try something worth trying! I absolutely love their products.
TRAVEL
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Ruaha National Park Tanzania STACIA VON CASTLE Our passion and love for Africa has deepened after our visit to Tanzania! Our 10 day excursion included breathtaking views of landscape which must be experienced at least once in a lifetime! Ruaha national park is one of the few of Tanzania’s famous wilderness area where one can have a rare experience of game viewing spiced up by the fascinating landscape. The park is rich with plants and animals such as Greater Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) which cannot be found in any other national park. The park boasts of her almost untouched and unexplored ecosystem, making visitors’ safari experience very unique. The Great Ruaha River as other rivers like Mwagusi, Jongomero and Mzombe act as the life line of the park. During dry season, these rivers become the main source of water for wildlife. There are few natural springs serving the same purpose. In the pick of dry season, elephants obtain water from dry sand rivers using their front feet and trunks. The remaining waterfalls along the Great Ruaha River are also important habitat for hippopotamus, fish and crocodiles. Here is Ruaha through our eyes!
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ON THE SCENE
DJ NORIE of POWER 105’s ANYTHING GOES AMAZURA, QUEENS
FACE IN FOCUS
Model : Ashes Couture
Contributed This aspiring model and media personality has great ambition and an even greater work ethic. Get ready to see her on the runway, in print and on TV! -
MODEL OF THE MONTH Model : Stephanie Hollywood Photo : Jerome Dupont Retouch : Helen & Jerome
JeromeDupont.com
DJ WORLD MAP 82
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DOING ROAD WITH
ROAD INTERNATIONAL CONTRIBUTED When it comes to ‘doing road’ in Caribbean entertainment, it is hard to find a collective of six selectors who are more qualified to go hard at an event, or in a party than Road International. Originally from New York, NY, members DJ Roy, Oxtail, Stretch, RJ, Scientist, Crump and LBully have played at gatherings in the Tri-State, across the Caribbean and internationally, becoming a staple attraction at events such as Atlanta Carnival, Miami Carnival, Best of the Best, Jamaica Jazz and Blues and more. Some of the labels who have relied on their musical expertise include Island Jamaica Records, Sony Records, Digicel, VP Records and Irie Jam Media Group. In addition to playing music for fans, Road International enjoys great success as backing DJ’s for artists Beenie Man, Sean Paul, Shaggy and more at album release launches, and annual outdoor events such as Irie Jamboree, Grace Jerk Fest and Reggae Rhythm & Blues. They have also executive produced compilation releases featuring the best music from the best artists as well as their most recent disc, Dancehall Originators presented by Ziggy Marley. Currently on the radio airwaves, their syndicated radio show can be heard in New York, Boston, Atlanta, Florida and Jamaica. Connect with Road International >>> @RoadIntl
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bt83QPRB9Ps
https://t.co/WFnRweCli5
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIWzu0E_-4Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nxh0O-MLHWE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmdHAyUMAVg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbJbYPuinhc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8I-7Wk_Vbc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLn2_axmues
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yHmiixs3qI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTAVrtmQTlY
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NEW RELEASES
L3 ENDORSED
NEW RELEASES
NEW RELEASES
INTRODUCING MUSIC SENSATION 94
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KRISHANE CONTRIBUTED
Atlantic Records has a new signee, and that new signee is none other than Krishane, a 20 year old whose sound is a fusion of Pop with tastes of Jamaican Roots! The artists debut single, “Drunk & Incapable” will be released this month and features fellow UK sensation, Melissa Steel and Dancehall legend, King Beenie Man. About the song, Krishane says, “The song came so naturally from playing around in the studio. Bless Beats produced the track, and once it was finished, I knew it had to be the first single. Musically, there’s nothing else like it out at the moment. It reflects me and where I’m from.” Being the son of veteran reggae singer Barrington Levy, Krishane grew up in a world of music in his hometown of Manchester, Jamaica. With that passion he started writing and singing from a young age before uprooting to London two years ago to pursue a career in music. As well as Bless Beats (Wiley and Jess Glynne), Krishane has been recording with a number of key producers including Michael Angelo (Maverick Sabre, Ella Eyre, Sam Smith and Tinie Tempah) and Will Simms (Girls Generation, Ayah Marar and Sean Kingston) to name just few. The music video will be out soon, Connect with Krishane via Twitter >>> @KrishaneWorld
CHELSEA STEWART IS OVER YOU
Alumni of the Regional Arts Program at Mayfield Secondary School, Chelsea Stewart continues her studies in music and the arts at The Jazz Program at Humber College. She’s sung for and shared the stage with two legends in their respective genres, Stevie Wonder and Bobbie McFerrin, and left all in attendance amazed that such a voice can come from a tiny frame. This multi-talented singer and songwriter is classically trained and claims multiple genres of music as her own. From classical to jazz and everything in between, Chelsea takes you on a musical journey visiting the eras of Billie Holiday, Donny Hathaway , Bob Marley, and Maria Carey. This young vocalist possesses a voice that moves you. Receiving standing ovations at local jazz festivals and on the international stage, this young powerhouse has been an opening act for various artists, including R&B artist Mario, and Reggae super star Beenie Man. To close out the summer of 2014, Chelsea opened the stage for Superstars I-Octane, Marcia Griffiths, Pinchers, Sanchez and Luciano – a tall order to fill on the most prestigious Reggae stage, the Montreal International Reggae Festival! Her debut single, from her yet untitled forthcoming EP, “Over You,” has received incredible attention from international lovers of music. Radio jocks can’t play the single enough, and listeners can’t hear her lyrics and music enough to satisfy their desire for such a sweet voice! A star is born, and that star is Ms. Chelsea Stewart! Fans can listen to her hit single “Over You” here: http://www.mediafire.com/listen/aayi650a6x4d2dt/Chelsea_Stewart_-_01_-_Over_You.mp3 Connect with her on Twitter >>> @cstewartsings
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Like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day, her voice is refreshingly cool, and definitely on the sweet side, and she goes by the name of Chelsea Stewart!
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CONTRIBUTED
DENIRO TALK :
RISING STARS OF SNS 98
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CONTRIBUTED Coming from New York, I have an opportunity to hear a lot of artists before mainstream media, and this month I’m going to introduce an artist to keep your eye on who comes from the Hip Hop genre. This month, SNS is in the spotlight! The popular Lite Feet movement originated in Harlem, NY, and gave way for young upcomer SNS to reveal his producing competence. He has performed at the Hot97 Teen party in Club Promenade where he performed alongside artists DJ Webstar, Bow Wow, Swag Kids and Jim Jones. This was 2009, and putting in good work led to a performance at Hot 97’s Summer Jam Pre Show. Taking that experience, and applying his own touch, SNS produced his own concert “The Son Of The Future Concert” in celebration to the release of the “Son Of The Future” Mixtape. This too was a success which caught the interest of more mainstream media such as Sirius XM AllhipHop.com, Power 105.1 The Breakfast Club, Sway In The Morning, Miss MiMi Of G-Unit Radio, Dj Kay Slay on Drama Hour/Shade45, The Roundtable With Lenny S, Mecca Global / SBMG TV and more. He has also been featured in XXL Magazine’s “TheBreak” section For Up and Coming Artist & Was Also featured on Funk Master Flex’s INFLEXWETRUST. Impressive! Now having a movement behind him called “Icy Gang,” he often shows the making of a leader in the rap game with his lyrics, and his skills as being an MC! Feel the SNS vibe via YouTube >>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Odt6sanmAg
FARI IS DIFUTURE With a voice that holds a listeners attention, the young artist has amassed an impressive catalog that includes songs being played around the world by seasoned radio professionals. Songs like “Somewhere” on the Rising Sun riddim, and “Clean Up Your Heart” on a re-birthed Entertainment riddim have put Fari in to the spotlight, and have fans looking forward to hearing more. Known for his mellifluous voice, and catch-phrase ‘well klear,’ Fari makes his presence known in the global Reggae and Dancehall landscape as being one who adds great music to the mix!
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His legal name isn’t too far off his stage name, and both center around the “I,” being Fari (pronounced far-eye) who is ‘di future!’
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CONTRIBUTED
TC
COUNT ON HER LOVE
TESSANNE CHIN by NATASHA VON CASTLE It’s a shame it has taken the world so long to know what we in the Caribbean have known for so many years. Tessanne Chin has and is ‘The Voice.’ Never afraid to vocally do what her instincts tell her, Tessanne always recognized being in the box, but could not be conformed to the box. By that I mean, yes she was in Jamaica, and yes she speaks the islands dialect, Patois, but her music is global and could not fit in the traditional Reggae and Dancehall box, though some songs carry both genres identifying element. Doing backing vocals for Jimmy Cliff helped to exemplify that point, and it helped to solidify her star in the sky. It was only a matter before the world knew about our treasure from the Caribbean!
TC
COUNT ON HER LOVE
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by NATASHA VON CASTLE
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TESSANNE CHIN
L3: T:
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The world now knows what we have known for years. You have The Voice and you are The Voice! Now that the competition is over, how does it feel to be out for the world to see?! If feels wonderful! I still have a long way to go in terms of where I want to reach with my career, but I give thanks everyday for where I have reached because I know how it felt to be on the other side of this [where I am now]. Every little step is a milestone and it feels wonderful!
L3: Now that the reality of being a Star has settled in, and you’ve had a chance to absorb your fame, have the experiences as a result changed you in any way? T: You know I look at this in a different way. I look at this as me being an artist surrounded by a lot of great artists. I don’t see myself as a star yet. I feel proud when I’m out and I see the fans and I’m surrounded by their love and energy. By nature I’m a shy and private person, so all of the attention is something I have had to get used to. I had to take each moment as it comes, and my Husband has had to adjust to me ‘belonging’ to the fans, so in that sense this experience has changed my privacy settings. L3: Your vocal style has always been different, and never ‘fit’ the Reggae and Dancehall mold, yet you still made your voice present in those genres. Early in your career, did you feel pressured to be in that box because of where you come from? T: Most definitely. Growing up in Jamaica, the first thing we hear is Reggae, but I am lucky to have brothers and sisters who listened to so many other genres. I grew up to Celine Dione, Whitney Houston, Wham, the Cranberries and groups like that so I had a very broad range of music around me. I think that experience allowed me to explore Blues, and Rock and Opera and Jazz, so I found myself saying ‘how do I choose just one?’ I did have some producers who wanted me to just perform Reggae and I would ask to have some Rock put in and they would say ‘nah man,’ which was a little frustrating but I found a way to do what I want. I was always encouraged to explore, and luckily later on I found producers who were able to help me manifest that dream – my dream! L3: When we see you on stage, and you close your eyes, we, your fans, see you going to a very deep and special place, but what do you see and where do you go when you close your eyes?! T: It’s not a ‘seeing’ it’s a feeling. When I close my eyes it’s because at that moment I don’t need to see, I just need to feel. It’s euphoric.
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Thank God we were able to work with amazing writers and producers who understood that. The secular world and pop world have been seeing what we do in the Caribbean, and I got to solidify both sides! L3: In addition to being a Pop icon, you are a Caribbean icon! Are you enjoying the best of both worlds?! T: Laughs! I don’t see myself as an Icon yet. I do see me as a work in progress. I try not to take it too seriously; I do it for the original reasons which is I love what I do. When I create, I’m in my element! L3: You’ve had the opportunity to keep company with Celine Dione, Adam Levine, and several musical greats. How do you feel when people put you in the same category as the greats you look up to and admire? T: Oh gosh … this is so surreal. Anyone who knows me knows how I feel about Ms. Celine Dione. I am a fan of her vocal ability, yes, but it’s also how she presents herself and how she carries herself in a world where it’s about the ‘drama,’ she’s maintained her being grounded, and her being a family oriented person and I like that. When the news broke about her Husband not being well, she immediately canceled all of her dates because family comes first, and that is something I greatly admire. Being able to talk to her for just a few minutes was great and I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.
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L3: Since your crowning on The Voice, do you think the Pop world has learned musical lessons from the Caribbean side that you represent and is your album somewhat of two Ambassadors meeting being Americana Ambassadors and Caribbeana Ambassadors?! T: That’s clever! It is … it’s different for Caribbean artists to do Caribbean music for a Caribbean audience, and easy for Pop artists to borrow from Caribbean influences, so artists like me, have a meeting of the two worlds where we have a chance to make a hybrid of music that both sides can enjoy, and that feels really good. I don’t ever want to get too caught up in genres and forget about making music that is authentic to me.
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L3: We saw an article published that mentioned the number of units your album has sold. Does the ‘business’ side of the business become unattractive at that point – when people focus on the numbers, or does the business woman in you come out and say “what is our strategy to reach more fans?” T: First of all, the business side is always unattractive. Any musician will tell you that; we make music because we Love music! I’m in the business of shows so if I’m not taking account of this then maybe I shouldn’t be in the business either. I recognize that I have to wear the ‘business’ hat and the ‘musical / creative’ hat. Do I allow the business to rule me? Absolutely not! What I have released, I am proud of and stand behind it. People need to realize that this is not a sprint, this is a marathon and I am in this for the long haul as an individual and with the label. We are working the marathon route and have faith in a positive outcome. I will continue to sing the album live, and will touch people with every performance! L3: Count on My Love is a very beautiful album. It gives us goose bumps as we listen to you take us on a musical journey of Love and Life! Walk us through your recording process! Did you write the lyrics to your songs before you got to the studio? Did you write lyrics while in the studio? T: For this album, the only song that was written before, which was written at a bit of a downtime in my life, was “One Step Closer.” That song represents everything that I feel, not just in career but in life. I really hoped that song would be added to the album and I’m thankful that it was. When I got to the studio with people like Claude Kelly, Chuck Harmony, Diane Warren, Rock City, everything started to flow in a certain way, and I wanted it to happen naturally. I didn’t want a genre ‘cap,’ I just wanted good music for my fans! Everything was a very natural progression. We worked to have a balance of Tessanne coming off a TV show, singing other people’s songs and Tessanne the artist delivering an album which is me. The journey (ups and downs and hopes) of Love is more me. I tend to fill up like a vessel with all these words, and then I pour them out for the world to hear and enjoy.
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Connect with Tessanne via Twitter >>> @Tessanne or www.OfficialTessanneChin.com
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L3: Will we see a collaborative single between you and Shaggy anytime soon?! T: Shaggy and I have collaborated so much in the past, but I’m sure we will soon. It’s bound to happen … he is another great support and a great friend. We have to! L3: Your image has a permanent home on Billboards around the world! Is that something you’re still getting used to? T: Ummmm … yes! I was at the airport the other day and I saw my Billboard and I had to take a picture. Wow … this is really me! L3: The name of our magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second for Love and the third for Lyrics. What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? T: For Life, live it and don’t waste a moment. Love, cherish it and don’t take it for granted, and for Lyrics, make them count!
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L3: The fan reaction to your album has been swift. A few quotes include: “Been a fan since day one; love you and your music,” “There was never any doubt in my mind that Tessanne is The Voice,” and “Tessanne can count on her fans!” These are just a few quotes from thousands but how important is feedback to you? T: You know, this is where balance has to come in to place. If you read everything written or said about you, your belief in you can change by the minute, but, when I hear from my core group of fans, and I’m talking my real fans – these are people whom I know; when I hear from them, that is what matters most. They made a video that had me in tears; that video told me how much I mean to them and at the same time, they mean so much to me. They come out to my shows, they give me that support and they are my foundation. I can’t do it without them and that is the reality! Their feedback is what I believe in. L3: Your commitment to your fans is that you travel to perform for them when they call. How are you balancing your time as in travel, family, food, rest, personal interest etc?! T: Can I be totally honest?! I’m still learning … I’m still figuring this out! I haven’t mastered it yet, but I have an amazing support system: my Husband, sisters and brothers and Jamaica! Jamaica has a wonderful way of not letting you get too unbalanced!
AGAPE
by Jennifer Menster
A surprising gem found in between the US and Jamaica is a musician by the name of Robert Burchell. Where he is known, he is really known, and where he is unknown, he quickly becomes known for one reason: inspirational music. We’ve found that no matter where Robert’s music is played or performed, the reaction is the same; fans like his combination of Reggae and Gospel and Adult Contemporary. The end result may be labeled as Reggae, but really he performs in a lane all his own, and has a caravan of souls who travel with him because he is that light!
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L3: You are professionally trained as an upholsterer, and yet you sing! Tell us why you went the trade route, and are now returning to the musical route! RB: I started my trade at a very young age so I would say that sometimes God uses different avenues to groom a person to prepare them for what they will be doing down the line. In my case, my ‘down the line’ is music, and now here I am. This is the right time. I am more mature and ready. 118 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014
L3: Instead of using your voice for hype, you are using your voice for praise! Why did you choose Gospel as your genre? RB: Whatever I do in life has to be positive, and has to be for soul – winning. The music I make is not necessarily Gospel, it’s about calling people through love, unity and righteousness. Some call it Gospel, but I call it positive music. We must be together and we must be one! L3: How about we create a new genre, just for you called ‘Inspirational!’ Would that work for you?! RB: That would be great for me because that is what music should be. This is a medium to uplift people and call people to the positive things in life. This is about changing the world for the better. L3: Playing an instrument is one of the highest forms of gifts God can bestow upon Angels. We understand you play … which instruments are those? RB: I play the drums, bass, guitar and keyboards! On my album, I play all of the instruments except for the lead guitar. L3: Is there anything that touches you or comes out of you when you play those instruments? RB: [Robert smiles brightly] Just like David I would say yes. There is a joy that comes out of me, especially when I see the faces of the people and I see their reaction. There is a spirit that comes when I play, and when I am doing the right thing in terms of answering the call that God has given me. Me playing and the people hearing causes that reaction, so what comes from me is joy. L3: Your album Agape is doing very well. Why did you choose that name as the name for your album? RB: Agape is love, and that is the greatest gift of all. As I am a person who represents love, it was natural that I use that word for the title of the album … the album represents me and I am love.
L3: There are a few singles from the album that are being very well received by radio jocks around the world. How does it feel to know your voice and lyrics are helping to heal some people who may otherwise be unwell? RB: That is a great feeling. I am a disciple who does the work on behalf of the Almighty. Following his direction is what brings about these results so it feels good for his names sake.
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L3: So far, you have performed in the US, and your native homeland of Jamaica, but are there other places you would like to take your musical ministry? RB: I want to take my ministry around the world. With the help of great people, that mission will come to fruition. L3: You are very creative, and are blessed with sight that most people find unexplainable! Does that vision come to you in your sleep, when you’re out for a walk, at the studio? Where does that come from? RB: That insight comes from within, so I would say that the Spirit of God lives within me, therefore, when I sleep, when I go for a walk, wherever I am, that creativity comes to me and I am open to it. L3: A Legend in his own right, Sizzla Kolanji, has taken a keen liking to your music and to your ministry. What was the initial conversation like with the Reggae Superstar? RB: I think Sizzla has taken on to me because of my spirit. Sizzla is a man who understands people and he knows you by your fruit. By seeing me, he said he knows who I am, and that was all that I needed to hear. We have a lot of things in common so it was easy to create and work with him.. L3: How has your family reacted to you being in music? RB: All of my family has been very supportive including my wife who loves my music and gives me so much encouragement. There are times I have to be on the road, and she gives me that support because she knows how much this means to me and to all the people who are hearing my music! I thank her and I love her! L3: Now that the album is out, and you’re receiving radio play and are performing, what are some of the next steps you are looking forward to? RB: The next steps is getting to the next level which is taking the ministry to the world. I need to get out there because I’m ready. This is an inspirational sound and it must be heard by the world! L3: The name of our magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second is for Love, and the third is for Lyrics. What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics?! RB: Life only comes once here on earth, be positive everyday because you are only here for a time. Love is the greatest gift we have been given and Lyrics must be clean and positive and they will take you where you are meant to go! Fans can connect with Robert Burchell via >>> www.RobertBurchell.com
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THE BEAN
by SONG RIVER Can a dishwasher really be a hero? The Bean shows us we certainly can! “Life is a whole new adventure” I believe would be author and Illustrator, Travis Hanson’s, mantra. Travis recently began the process of coloring his long time dishwasher’s adventure web-comic, The Bean, and I asked him to share with us the process and legacy of this regular ‘Joe’ turned hero.
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SR: Travis share with us a little background about The Bean; this dishwashers journey to self-discovery. TH: The Bean is the story of a young dishwasher who lives in an inn called the Silver Dagger. The Bean is not happy with his lot in life; as he was abandoned by his father to the owner of the inn, a mean ogre named, Gort. One day, when he was sent on an errand to find some mushrooms, he was kidnapped by a crazy old troll who needed the boy to find a weapon of incredible power. The weapon, a broken sword, eventually ends up in the hands of Bean, who is given a charge to heal the sword. It’s a story about not always being in control of what happens to you, but learning to be in control of how you react to it. Bean finds out that even a dishwasher has the potential for being the hero. SR: What were some of the nuances you were thinking of when creating this story? TH: My disdain for washing dishes. (laughs) Actually, I am a strong believer that you might not be able to control a situation - yet you can control your reaction to that situation, which in the end allows you to control your future. I also watch my own children as they grow-up and observe how they deal with choices and situations. Sometimes, not everyone you meet can be trusted, while other times you meet people that look scary or intimidating, and they turn out to be your closest allies. That’s basically what The Bean is about. Taking old stereotypes and tossing them out the window. SR: Did you draw from any personal experiences in its creation? TH: I did. I took from my love of day dreaming and eating in dinners, while listening to the conversations around me when I was little. You learn that the world is a much bigger place than you thought. I also took the story from other experiences. When I wrote the refugee scene… I spent many hours talking to a friend who was a soldier and Chaplains’ Aide. He had served in Africa, and had seen some pretty rough stuff. It helped me add a level of realism to my tale. When dealing with wounds, I asked my cousin who studied to be a trauma surgeon on how one would deal with taking care of injuries on the battlefield, and also symptoms of fevers etc. I love doing research SR: TH:
What year did you begin Bean? 2002 really, but I did not put it into the current format that you see today, until 2009..
SR: You chose Patreon as your instrument to use to take your passion for this story to its full glory. Why did you choose this particular venue to reach your goals? TH: I chose Patreon, because Jason Brubaker, reminded (pause), encouraged me to. I found it to be a nice model that allowed fans to help finance a project. It is allowing me to speed up the process. This is important, because Patreon is making it possible for creators to spend time on their own dreams and projects, with the help of others. It’s like the renaissance where patrons helped artists be what they were good at, and that is being an artist. Also, I like Patreon because you can control how much you choose to donate. Most people donate just a $1 per color update, about $8 per month. That’s it, and you can cap it. So you control how much you donate. It’s very, very cool. There’s no time limit either, there is a reward system, and for me to color 600 [plus] pages I needed a way to ease the burden of a free web-comic which will still be free.
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SR: What made you decide to begin this coloring process? Do you think it will enhance the story? TH: Because as much as I love black and white, color is what sells. I found that a lot of doors were closed because it’s black & white so I decided to go back and start the coloring process. I had too. I want this story to be told the way I see and though I am still updating in black & white, it has always been my dream to do it in color.
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SR: Why did you originally begin in black and white, and were your intentions to keep it in this format? TH: I wanted to keep the story going. The story is an epic and I struggled with balancing a job/family/faith and the comic. To color it was way too taxing in the beginning, so I took the “Jeff Smith Model,” and went for black and white with the intent to color it later. It allowed the story to continue and keep it going - there are many web-comics that start in color, and quit because they cannot keep up with the demand a comic creates. Plus, there is little money at the moment in web-comics, so most creators need to have other jobs to keep the bills paid.
Travis Hanson is an Eisner nominated fantasy illustrator with a huge imagination. His works include comics, children’s art, fantasy and just fun illustrations that encourages the need for people to be creative. For more information on Trav’s works, rates and ideas, just send a note to thanson@beanleafpress.com Website: http://www.beanleafpress.com/
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Here is my link: http://www.patreon.com/travishanson.
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SR: How can those who want to support The Bean, get involved, and read how it works find your information? TH: Thru Pateron. Patreon allows people to donate money to help fund creators projects. Since my project is intense and big (600 plus pages and constant black & white updates) Patreon allows people to lift the financial burden that a project like this creates; especially when it is a labor of love. Some rewards included are free art, mentoring, secret blog, etc. The other thing is a patron can control how much they choose to donate. It could be just a $1 each month or it could be more. It is all up to the patron. The main thing is this opens a way for independent creators to produce some incredible projects, and do some wonderful things, while rewarding fans in a way that they have never done before. It is opening doors.