EDITOR-IN-CHIEF– KANEKIA SIMPKINS PUBLISHERS– MAGCLOUD PUBLISHERS CONTRIBUTING EDITORS-KANEKIA SIMPKINS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSLARRY MOSLEY LASTING LOOK PHOTOGRAPHY & KANEKIA SIMPKINS CIRULATION-TREMAYNE HORTON SENIOR LAYOUT AND DESIGN-KANEKIA SIMPKINS ASSOCIATE LAYOUT & DESIGNALPHONSO SMITH
The Magic City of Birmingham, Alabama has engaged in many historical events that helped to shape and mold history all over the world. With the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s the city of Birmingham was engulfed in the most vehement hate ever seen anywhere across the South. Today, with the recent success of our very own former American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard, Taylor Hicks, and Bo Brice, it is now time for the city to take on its epoch or new era. The entertainment industry is the most lucrative endorsement in the world. Through the many palettes of talent offered here in Birmingham, Al the city could procure a monopoly of businesses. The city of Birmingham should be a growing city similar to that of Atlanta, GA. We need more talented singers and dancers to come to the forefront exposing their talents. Look at all the pride demonstrated by the city for our star Ruben Studdard. Big prospering cities like California and New York finally started to pay close attention to the city of Birmingham, Al. The more exposure and publicity the city receives will bring more money for business expenditures. Just visualize the endless capabilities for the city. I can see it clearly. As an aspiring artist myself, I know how laborious the effort can be making it into the entertainment industry. As a young teenager, I would go around the city entering myself into the local talent shows at YMCA’s and the very popular nightclub. I was looking for any information I could find on dance, vocal, and instrumental auditions. Had I been exposed to some type of literature to use as guidance with specific auditions, and tips on performing, this would have helped me tremendously. Epok (pronounced as E-Pac) is an urban entertainment magazine fabricated to expand culture awareness in the areas of the arts. This magazine will be much like Source, Rolling Stone, and Ebony magazines. Epok magazine is designed to advertise the local artistry in the inner city in the fields of vocal and instrumental, rap, lyricists, dance, poetry, and more. Epok will cover a plethora of topics from the latest music, fashion, food, festive events in and around the city of Birmingham, and the technology of video shouting. The magazine will act as an avenue for young, black, adolescents and give adults in the locale an opportunity to display their businesses and philanthropists skills. E-pok will also focus on the outstanding black collegiate students of the city to display their academic and athletic achievements. The entertainment magazine will help the city of Birmingham gradually economize through the 23rd Century.
For the year 2012 and beyond the city of Birmingham will attract many amenities like new restaurants, banks, amusement parks, and shopping centers. As for myself, I am emphatic in writing each article in Birmingham’s first authentic urban entertainment magazine. This is not only a challenge for me to write this magazine in its entirety but it is also a chance for me to give positive feedback to my community. I will provide the city of Birmingham’s youth and adults with infinite knowledge about the entertainment industry. In return, I hope that the magazine will allow the city of Birmingham to recognize its full potential as being the largest city in all of Alabama. Love Always Founder of Epok
6. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
7. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
aylor of Tuscaloosa, Alabama is one of today's rising stars! A triple-threat in vocals, dance, and acting, Taylor is making her mark on the industry through hard-work and creativity comparable to no one in her generation. She's been featured in such productions as "Hairspray", "All God's Children", and "Aladdin Jr", modeled for Barbizon and received extensive dance training from Dancing Stars LLC. In school, she was a soloist for "No Air", "Heal the World" and "Respect." A well rounded youg lady, Taylor has participated in the Girl Scouts, once a cheerleader, church praise dancer, and the Sunbeams among many other organiztions. 8. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: So who is Taylor Semone? Tell us about yourself. Taylor Semone: First let me thank you for giving me this opportunity to appear in your magazine. Well my full name is Taylor Semone Wilson. I was born here in Tuscaloosa April 20, 1998. I think I am the girl next door who sings in the mirror and pretend she is already famous. I am like most preteens, I love to shop, dance and sing around the house. I love hair and nails and everything fashion; some call me a real girly girl. The only difference with me and the girl next door is that my parents believe in me and have supported my goals to be an entertainer. So my life is normal but not normal for a girl my age living in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Partly because I am always busy at rehearsals of some sort. EPOK MAGAZINE: Your sound is crystal clear and very mature for your age. Who have you worked with as far as vocal training? Taylor Semone: I had one lesson over the summer when I was probably 7 or 8. I remember singing this song in Spanish for my recital. That was a great experience with Musical Beginnings. I am currently working with Dr. Luvada Harrison the Chair of Fine Arts at Stillman College here in Tuscaloosa. She is great and a professional singer. She’s performed throughout the United States and Europe and has appeared in the "Drama Queens" episode of the HBO hit series Sex and the City. Most recently, she was the soprano soloist for Beethoven's Ninth Symphony on the “Ode to Joy”: Tuscaloosa Remembers and Rebuilds concert with the Tuscaloosa Symphony.
9 . EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: Where do you record? Taylor Semone: I recorded the first song, “Respect My Space” with what was then Royalty Music studio with OT Thomas. The remix of that song along with, “Not That Guy”, and “You Don’t Remember Me”, was recorded in the studio of Alvin “Kornbread” Garrett. The song , “All God’s Children” that I was the soloist was recorded in Doppler Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, produced by Dr. Greg McPherson EPOK MAGAZINE: What producers, musicians, and engineers do you work with? Taylor Semone:I have worked with OT Thomas, Alvin Garrett and Greg McPherson. EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you get into the music industry? Taylor Semone: It kind of happen. I have always loved to sing. My mom tells this story about how she would try to stop me from crying at my doctors when I was a baby; and the pediatrician told her that I was not crying, I was singing and from that point on, she and my dad have encouraged me to sing. I remember this one time I wanted to sing with the choir. I guess I was around 7. I thought the youth choir was singing, but they were not and I was really sad; but then the adult choir let me sing with them anyway. Our minister of music at that time was Lonnie Thomas and one Sunday he gave me the microphone and he said, ‘don’t be scared”, and I singed, “This Little Light of Mine”. After that, I just kept singing and my mom started really working hard trying to make it happen for me
EPOK MAGAZINE: I know you have some theater background. How did you get into theater and stage plays? Taylor Semone: It started at Woodland Forest Elementary school where we were allowed to write and showcase our skits; which were very small in comparison, for our classmates. Also, in my church we perform skits written by our First Lady of the church, Mrs. Josephine Swift . I guess I really took a liking to it and auditioned for my first play with TCT and I was disappointed in the role but as my mom always says, there is no small role. EPOK MAGAZINE: Is theater something you always wanted to get involved with? 10. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Taylor Semone: I knew that I wanted to be an all around entertainer and that would include acting and what better place to start than in theatre. EPOK MAGAZINE: What’s your favorite theater piece? Taylor Semone: The Phantom of the Opera believe it or not is a favorite. EPOK MAGAZINE: During the time you were featured in plays were you a soloist? Taylor Semone: In “Hair Spray” I played Little Inez and she sung in a couple of songs but to answer your question no. The role I am currently doing will be my first lead role as Dorothy in, “The Wiz”. I have three solo songs that I just performed on June 1, 2, & 3, 2012.
EPOK MAGAZINE:Is there a difference singing in theater juxtapose to singing in the studio? Taylor Semone: In the studio, I am confined to a booth with earphones singing with a few people present. If I mess up, we can re-record it. On stage there’s no room for mistakes. You’re singing to hundreds of people and it’s real. There’s no do over. EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you land the features in "Hairspray," "All God's Children," and "Aladdin Jr?" Taylor Semone: It’s a funny story. I had just sang RESPECT by Aretha Franklin in my 7th grade school choir concert, and after the show, this guy came up to me and my parents and was like, you were great, I have a play coming up and I really want you to audition. I went and audition and my mom made me wear ponytails and a tutu and I was not happy, but she said that they need to visualize me being Little Inez. After the initial audition, I was happy that I did look the part because they were all impressed how I showed up for the audition. I had a call back and I was nervous at first, but once I sang against the other girl, I remember telling my mom, I got this. And I got it. The part! “All God’s Children” just kind of just happen. I met him through my mom and I sang for him and he liked my voice and wanted to work with me. He wrote and produced the song for Brown Memorial Presbyterian church and asked me to be the featured soloist. I was very happy to be a part of a great song with a Christian message. The role of the squirrel happen because I was encouraged to audition by my teacher in the gifted program. I feel bad that I cannot remember her name; I was in the third grade. {laughing} EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you have an agency that you work directly with? Taylor Semone: No. I am an independent artist being represented by my mom. So to all the agencies looking for great talent, HERE I AM! {laughing) EPOK MAGAZINE: Your style and sound is very unique for an artist coming out of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. To see an artist doing Pop/R/B out of Alabama is 11. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
refreshing. How would you classify your style? Taylor Semone: I think I am in the stage where you are still trying to find your own style. I have been blessed with strong vocals and it has allowed me to sing in different styles. So right now, I don’t believe I can be classified just yet. EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you write your own material or do you collaborate with ghost writers? Taylor Semone: The first song, “Respect My Space”, was first written by Kevin Croom and up an coming songwriter from Tuscaloosa and remixed by Alvin “Kornbread” Garrett. “Not That Guy” and You Don’t Remember Me” was written by Alvin and me. I came up with some of the chorus and pieces of the bridge and Alvin came up with the verse and we collaborated on the rest. EPOK MAGAZINE: So you're a triple threat. Which one of your crafts helps you stand out more? Taylor Semone: I think my singing at this point in my life is the strongest. I am finding my way in acting which I hope to do more of.
12. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: Your first album is entitled Taylor Semone. Are you currently working on a new album or mixtape that your promoting right now? Taylor Semone: I am not promoting anything other than the play right now. I have had to big play productions back to back; which was the Color Purple and now The Wiz along with my dance recital that just happen May 26, 2012. So I have not had time to get back in the studio. I have been searching for great tracks and I would mention who I have found because his tracks are awesome; but I don’t want anyone getting my tracks before I do. {laughing} But we plan to get back to work on my album in July. EPOK MAGAZINE: If so what will your new album focus on?
Taylor Semone: My new album will focus on ballads, feel good music and great dance tracks. I would love to do a duet remix with either Jacob Laitmore or Jawan Harris. 13. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
I think either one of these guys would be a match for my vocals and we could make great collabs. I heard a collaborations by Stacey Lattisaw and Johnny Gill and you don’t hear music like that anymore. Wouldn’t that be nice. {laughing} EPOK MAGAZINE: Your pictures were so very edgy and funky. Who is your photographer? TAYLOR SEMONE Thank you. I have to credit my mom for coming up with the concept for the photo shoot and making the photo shoot happen. It was crazy fun and I can’t wait to do it again. The photographer was My Keon Smith with Magic City Studios out of Birmingham AL. He is the best! The shoot took place in an alley and if the alley could talk. {laughing} EPOK MAGAZINE: I like how you can take a topic as simple as a boy not noticing you in school to writing a song about it. What other topics do you focus on in your music? TAYLOR SEMONE: The first three tracks dealt with issues I think we all face in middle school. Where we like boys but they don’t like us or they talk to us and then our friends. So I think the older I get, my music will continue to grow as I grow. Going forward, I want to have fun pop songs that can be played at school parties and birthday parties with really cool dance beats. Now that I am going to high school, the songs will be based on the experiences I have had dealing with friendships and relationship and how they change. EPOK MAGAZINE: You say your style is similar to Rihanna and you're a huge Diggy Simmons fan. What other artist influence your music?
14. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
TAYLOR SEMONE: Wow, I love Diggy Simmons. {laughing} But I really love Whitney Houston; she is my biggest inspiration right now. I also love Monica, Brandy, Anita Baker, Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry, Jacob Laitmore, Usher, Chris Brown and Jawan Harris. These artist influence me in different ways, whether it’s their soulful sound, big voices are just passion for the music. EPOK MAGAZINE: Have you done any music videos yet? TAYLOR SEMONE: No I have not done any music videos yet. We had one scheduled for January 2012, but the choreography was not ready and we decided to push it back. EPOK MAGAZINE: Have you done many shows outside of Alabama? TAYLOR SEMONE: No, not yet, but I would love too. Anybody listening! LOL! EPOK MAGAZINE: Any shows and performances you have coming up soon? TAYLOR SEMONE: Other then The Wiz, I don’t. But I am open for suggestions! {laughing} EPOK MAGAZINE: What do you want people around the world to know about Taylor Semone and Alabama artist? TAYLOR SEMONE: I’m just a Southern girl with a dream of being an international entertainer. I want to be a brand and model and have my own line of shoes, clothing, nail polishes, jewelry, perfume and make-up that is catered for young ladies who have style and love fashion! I want to be a positive role model for other young girls to follow and know that it’s okay not to be the cool kid and its okay to like school and its okay to have a dream bigger than life. It’s okay to just be you!
"I love fashion design because I love to create and be creative. I get excitement out of trying to figure out how many different ways that I can make an item look fabulous! My favorite pieces to design are monokinis! I love sexy one piece swimsuits! My family and friends who believe in me and encourages me inspires me the most! People looking forward to wear my pieces; that inspires me! Seeing hot fashion shows with models wearing beautiful pieces inspires me to be on the same level. I aspire to have my pieces in high fashion fashion shows showing off my work! The mission of ShaLaJa Swimwear is to internationally provide a variety of cutting edge swimwear to accommodate all women!... YES! That includes plus size!"
ShaLaJa Swimwear came to life in 2011 after founder Shaquoya Jackson decided to stop searching for the ‘sexy, flirty yet sophisticated’ swimwear she desired and created it herself. Involvement in fashion shows, wearing and working the pieces on the runway, led to curiosity of being on the other side of the spectrum. Fueled by a life long passion for the art-and-craft of high fashion, Shaquoya set out to design a line of cutting edge swimwear that would appeal to style savvy women around the globe. The result: ShaLaJa’s premiere collection, launching this summer, features eight different ranges in an array of prints, styles, textures, colors and embellishments – from simple to space age, and everything in between. Collection highlights include creative monokinis, twisted two-pieces and one-pieces that cinch your figure into svelte mode. Being featured in six fashion shows thus far and various photo shoots ShaLaJa appears to be taking off! Future plans for ShaLaJa include exotic wear and a children’s line. 16.. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
17. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Its funny how history repeats itself. Being a little kid and listening to your parents saying something like, “That new dance ya’ll young’uns doing aint new! We did that back in the day. What ya’ll call stepping is what we call the Charleston. What ya’ll call the Kid N Play is what we call the Mash Potatoes.” Okay maybe the conversation didn't go quite like that but you catch the drift. As Elee sits sipping on her cocoa cappuccino, listening to Pat Benatar, she realizes that she is learning and re-learning everything at lightening speed. For Elee, everything that she has been through over the past years is just starting to make sense. Things are connecting in her mind, making her circle complete. Even today, all the teenagers are breaking-dancing, hyping it as if it’s the new thing. Well, at least to them it is. Elee simply reminisces on the 1980’s hit film “Break-Dancing” with star dancers Ozone and Turbo. Even now as Elee listens to Pat Benatar’s “Love Is A Battlefield”, its like she’s really hearing it for the first time ever. As a kid Elee remembers rocking out to the song only because it was bad ass and having no idea whatsoever what she was talking about. Now understanding and feeling every word, it seems as if Elee is seeing everything for the second time around. This time with a totally different perspective. As Elee has witnessed it before perhaps in another time, another place, or in another world as a bystander. Now finally, she is the participant. Like once watching a play from the audience to next being the actress in that same play. What a difference a few hundred days can make. The funny thing is the more one learns the more one realizes that we know nothing at all. Except for the things we all learned as a child. Elee just happens to understand now. Since the title of Elee’s new campaign is “Do You BELEEVE”, you can imagine she has been asked that question a lot lately. Her response? Elee believes that in order to accomplish anything great, one has to first believe that it can be accomplished. Elee believes in the power of Love and God. She believes that hard work and giving yields prosperity and that learning she be a life long process. Believing that were all somehow connected, Elee is the happiest she has ever been in her life. Her undeniable believe in vision and the power to speak things into existence, its no surprise that Elee believes that there is a season for everything. Elee’s new album is entitled “BELEEVE.” The title seems so fitting and appropriate because at this point in her life, its about believing what she can accomplish as an artist and what rings true to Elee. The records on her latest album “BELEEVE” are in the truest form and the closest that Elee has ever been to it. The songs on her album “BELEEVE” have a common thread capable of weaving people together. Elee has grown much artistically and she is getting better with time. Or as Elee would say it, “I believe this project will shed light on what its like to be a rapper of the female gender. I believe I have so much to learn and I look forward to the adventure. I believe you’re going to like it.”
EPOK MAGAZINE: First time I ever heard of Elee and your music was when I met you last year at Ron White Record Poole in Huntsville, Alabama. I just saw this very calm and quiet, young lady waiting to perform. But when you got on the stage to perform your song “Oowee” I was like, “The beat is going!” “Oowee is a nice radio joint. Who produced your song “Oowee?” Elee:Durdy Muzik. EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you come with your stage name Elee? What does it mean? Elee: It's a nickname I got a few years back because it's an abbreviation of my name Erika Lee. EPOK MAGAZINE: Explain the concept of “Oowee.” What does “Oowee mean? What are you trying to convey in the song “Oowee?” What is “Oowee” all about? Explain. Elee: Oowee is that intangible thing a person possesses that captivates the attention and imagination of all those around. In the song I liken it to a physical attribute, or wealth, but then go on to describe it as something that you can't quite put your finger on, but it blows you away. It's meaning is different for everyone, which is why I think a lot of people like the song. EPOK MAGAZINE: I loved the video for “Oowee.” It was nice to see someone step outside the box and be creative, instead of your typical, clinche videos with expensive cars and big booty women. Who came up with the treatment or concept ideas for your video “Oowee?” Elee: I came up with the treatment and concept. I designed the costumes and located most of the props used in the video. I didn't actually sew all the costumes of course, I hired someone to do that. EPOK MAGAZINE: You had a lot of cameo appearances in your video like R/B singer Reel’AL and a few models. Have you ever worked musically with Reel’AL? What is you and Reel’AL relationship like? How did you meet? Elee: Yes, I've worked with Ree'AL. I did a feature on a song called "Stalker" that was on her last album. We've known each other a long time. Just from being around the city and doing music.
EPOK MAGAZINE: Your new album “Beleeve” seems to be off to a good start thus far. I’ve heard one single called “Love Adventure” and its becoming one of my favorites also. Talk about “Beleeve.” Explain what “Beleeve” is all about. What does “Beleeve” mean to you? Elee:. The new album "Beleeve" is the closest to my natural expression that I've ever done. It has a little bit of everything. Some freestyles, some street sounds, some ballad sounds and some what I like to call universal sounds. I just wanted to do a project that was all about pure expression of what my current mind/emotional state was at the time. Just wanted to do records that spoke to me and put them out there to see if they spoke to others. "Beleeve" is about knowing your self truths and believing in your path. It's about realizing that there was probably someone who believed in you before you, yourself even did. It's simply about the element and the act of believing.
21. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: Is there any reason why you alter the spelling to “Beleeve?” Explain. Elee: Of course. Because my name is Elee, I put my name in the middle of the word as a symbol of hope that others will come to “Beleeve” in this project as much as do. EPOK MAGAZINE: I know you’re on this crazy listening party tour called “Do You Believe.” What kind of feedback are you getting from your “Do You Believe” listening party? Elee: So far the feedback has been positive. There are a couple of records that are getting more recognition than others, but that's what listening sessions are for right? Lol….. The sessions have been very helpful in creating awareness of the music, and in helping to decide which singles people are feeling. There's some good music coming! EPOK MAGAZINE: You’ve toured Dallas, Atlanta and the Alabama market so far with your “Do You Believe” listening party. What other states have you been to and are scheduled to appear? Elee: So far just those three, but I plan to cover the southeast and Midwest by the end of summer. EPOK MAGAZINIE: You have a new banger called “Love Adventure.” You teamed up with Modesty XO on the track which makes for a DOPE collaboration. Why did you choose Modesty XO for you new single “Love Adventure?” Elee: I thought he'd be able to grasp the lighthearted energy of the song and chime right in with an upbeat flow and he did just that. He just had the right voice for it. EPOK MAGAZINE: Have you worked with Modesty XO previously? What other male rappers have you collaborated with? Elee: Yes. Modesty and I collaborated in 2008 on my first project Molasses for the Masses on a song called "I Wanna." I've collabed with Attitude, Fred P, D Best that I can remember. I'm probably forgetting a couple though Lol……. EPOK MAGAZINE: Its rare when you run across an artist singer, rapper, or dancer that is truly unique. How would you describe your style of rap? Elee: My style of rap is soft and genuine. EPOK MAGAZINE: What is different about Elee as a female rap artist? Elee: Well, there's no other individual made exactly like me… Just as there is no other individual made exactly like you. We're like snowflakes, all made of the same basic elements, but very unique in the details. The truer I can remain to myself, the more of a unique individual begins to emerge. Nobody one can do you like you. EPOK MAGAZINE: As a female rap artist, what are some topics you like to address in your music? Elee: Love, motherhood, social issues, self-love, work ethic, ambition and lessons learned.
23. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: Your very conscious of what’s going on with your inner self and the energies that surround you. You have this Afro-centric style about yourself that reminds me of Queen Latifah. Who are some of your influences in the music industry? Elee: Sade, Jill Scott, Lauren Hill, Cyndi Lauper, Mia X and Tupac. EPOK MAGAZINE: What’s in the future of music for Elee? What shows and performances do you have coming up next? Elee: I hope to continue to expand and explore my sound in order to reach my full potential as an artist. I'm performing on May 27th for May Day at Ensley Park in Birmingham and on June 16th in Dallas, TX
25. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
She is “Not That Girl” that ‘s going to do something for nothing. Ree’AL local radio hit singles “Encore” has had radiostations locked with hit after hit. The 957 Jamz Queen has been interviewed by Grade A Muzik for her sexy and charismatic female hustlers mentality. She is not just a vocal artist, but also a hostess, hairstylist and a makeup artist. You can catch Ree’AL hosting and performing event after event throughout the Birmingham, Alabama area.
Ypoo is one to hear. She has been the Freestyle champion four consecutive weeks on Blasturthoughts blog site. Originally from Athens, Alabama just call her Miss Juicy. With her sassy, sexual, lyrical content, Ypoo has the rhymes that will make any male rapper counterpart lose their mind. Ypoo knows the power of a woman and she is not reluctant to use what she has to get what she wants. With her new album dropping later this summer, be sure to keep your Eyes On The Prize.
Lady Lace grew up on the North side of Huntsville, Alabama. By the age of eleven classmates discovered a talent she kept hidden behind closed doors. She was an R&B/Hip-Hop diva. Lady Lace has a passion for music that she displays either through her deep, soulful, raspy singing voice or her rap skills that will not be silenced. Her music has a message for her listeners to enjoy and relate. Lady Lace clearly see’s that music has lost it's roots of feeling and emotion but she vows to bring it ALL back...Stay tuned for more...L/A(cE 26. EPOK MAGAZINE
Lady G is the leading Lady of Street Army Entertainment that consist of a well based Group of Southern Rappers out of Huntsville, Alabama. Super Producer, rapper, and engineer Ben Frank, Anthraxx, Fetti, Yung Muni, Q-Mac, LaChris, and Lady G make up this massive army. With a host of songs all over the internet, Lady G has features with local big name artist KING KUMA, TC DA OUTLAW, and Jack Boi. Lady G most relevant work yet is her song with Antoine Dodson entitled “Gucci Bag,” which has easily gotten over thirty thousand Youtube views. These talented artists are currently working together as a MOVEMENT and solo artists, starting an independent label that will reach worldwide recognition. Rocket City Radio was also founded by the same various artist. And their goal?...... To become well established in the music industry Independently.
Kibibi aka The Mic-Melter is tearing up stages performing everywhere. With a circle of friends in her corner such as sultry Laura Luke, and Reel’ Al its no wander Kibibi’s voice is a force to be reckoned with. Kibibi is one fly chic! A Soul singer, Songwriter, Music Producer and a bonified Performer for over 10 years! Kibibi’s first love is music, for music has always been faithful...and to music, undying love is pledged back to you. Kibibi's songwriting and vocal lending to a soundtrack has lead her into being an Emmy nominated Singer/Songwriter. To listen to a song by Kibibi Jones you would hear elements of Soul, Rock, Hip Hop, and a slice of R&B, lined with Gospel riffs.
Miss Mahogany has been writing poetry and raps since the young age of eight. Her vision is to touch as many individuals as she can through music and poetry. ~Miss Mahogany "I put my heart into everything that I do because I am a passionate person.” Mahogany has a certain confidence about herself that may be perceived as arrogance, but Mahogany is just content with being herself whether others like it or not. Her swag is one of a kind and Miss Mahogany doesn't try to imitate or fit in with the crowd. Mahogany is a real ass chick you can feel it in her music.
Musician, Mother, Singer, Survivor. Laura Luke is far from your average entertainer. In fact, her voice puts you in the mind-frame of a new age Bille Holiday. She’s a 21st century force to be reckoned with that packs the powerful punch of jazz, pop and hip hop laced with lyrical legitimacy only birthed from the joys and struggles of life. Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Laura Luke (born Laura Mae Coleman), penned her first poetic prose at age six and discovered her talent for writing and singing at age eight. She grew up singing in churches around the state with her sisters as part of their gospel group known as “Holiness is Right”. It was during this time that the budding musician also honed her passion for trumpet playing, jazz and the spotlight with the late Jothan Callins as a part of the legendary Birmingham Youth Jazz Ensemble. “Mr. Callins was so special, so important to the young musicians in our community. He taught me my first vocal jazz tune “Solitude” and pushed me out in front of the band,” said Laura. After six years of marriage, childbirth, divorce, and job loss Luke had a story to tell and the right voice to tell it. Laura’s heavily anticipated debut album “Single Mother Chronicles” was released in 2010. With R&B singles like “Beautiful Mistake” and “Extra Extra” the message of joy, struggle, and triumph found on “Single Mother Chronicles” is appreciated by mothers and appealing to many. “I have done what no other artist before me has done in dedicating my entire debut album to the single mother. My mission is to use my music to motivate the masses to understand the needs of the single mother,” said Laura Luke. Laura Luke’s budding romance with jazz and newfound confidence set the stage for her emergence as a lead vocalist. As with most artists, as she matured, so did the subject matter of Laura Luke’s music. In 2003, Laura decided to write music that fit her lifestyle as an adult. She explains, “I loved God deeply and still do, but it‘s important for me to live and write truthfully. I needed to write about my life and the human emotions of the average person.” With her Luke warm voice, this single Mother dazzles crowds regularly at various venues and events. She has also opened for international artists Donnell Jones & Julie Dexter. ”Single Mother Chronicles”, dubbed “pop jazz.
29. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: I love your album Single Mother Chronicles. One of my favorites from the album is "Beautiful Mistake" What inspired you to write this song? How did you come up with the concept? LAURA LUKE: Wow. That means a lot and thank you. "Beautiful Mistake" is actually one of my singles from that album. It was the first song I wrote and it set the tone for the entire work. I wanted to write a song that took all of the pain, frustration, and miscommuniEPOK MAGAZINE: You mentioned cation issues associated with before that "Single Mother Chronisingle parenthood and wrap it up in forgiveness, understandcles" is an album that every mother ing, and proper should have. Why do you feel that perspective. I wanted the lathis album is important for single dies to understand that the mothers? What do want Single Moth- picture is a lot bigger and beautiful than the challenges ers to get from your album the they may be facing.
"Single Mother Chronicles"?
30. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
LAURA LUKE: I believe this album is important for them to have because it not only heals, but it encourages. So many woman have emailed and walked up to me saying, "Thank you. Your music is helping me through a tough time", or "This album is on repeat every morning before work." The greatest comment of all was a woman telling me that she softly plays Track ten "You Can Do" in her son's room each night. I want single moms to take MY story, MY challenges, and MY triumphs and incorporate it into THEIR own victories. EPOK MAGAZINE: How long have you been singing? When did you know that singing was what you wanted to pursue? LAURA LUKE: I wrote my first song around the age of eight. From there, I knew that I wanted to pursue music. The crazy part is that I didn't learn about my family's music heritage until AFTER I started writing and performing gospel music for a few years. I grew up seeing my Grandma Annie sing in church. But, I was like, "Whatever.” That's grandma." (Lol). It didn't register until she broke out a notebook of all of the songs she wrote. Then there's family members like Keke Wyatt, the "Gospel Four Eagles", cousin Jay, aunt Mary….. The list goes on, and on, and on. EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you get into singing? Is this something you always wanted to do. Were you in the choir growing up? Explain. LAURA LUKE: My 2 sisters and I organized our own gospel group. We wrote and composed music for a little over 10 years. During that time, I was in the Birmingham Youth Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Jothan Callins as a vocalist and trumpet player. I was also involved with my high school choir under the direction of Mr. Charles Brown. There, I trained in all types of music styles…. Classical, Opera, Spirituals, and Gospel. My training with Mr. Brown earned me 2 full scholarships to two different colleges. I eventually chose Miles College and trained under the direction of Doc Williams. During my freshman year of college, I got introduced to Birmingham's club music scene. Then paid, private music functions and so on.
31. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Mature? You think so? Wow again (Lol‌.) I've never really thought of my music that way. I guess I owe it all to great influences such as Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Anita O'Day, Prince, Jill Scott, Jay Z, OutKast. And training from the most patient and giving people on earth: The late Jothan Callins, Daniel Carr, Leroy Allen, Stanley Hall, Cleveland Eaton, Tommy Stewart, Charles Brown, Doc Williams, The late Roszetta Johnson, James Lewis. There are so many! I'm just a sponge.�
EPOK MAGAZINE: You also play the trumpet. How long have you been playing the trumpet? LAURA LUKE: Off and on for eighteen years. EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you incorporate trumpet sounds and melodies into your music or do you plan on introducing the trumpet as another talent of yours in the future? LAURA LUKE:I plan on introducing all of my musical talents. That includes trumpet and other talents I haven't mentioned (smile) EPOK MAGAZINE: Your music transcends further pass your years here on earth. You have such a jazzy, old soul when it comes to your music. What do you believe attributes to your mature level as far as your music is concerned? LAURA LUKE: Mature? You think so?? Wow again (Lol‌.) I've never really thought of my music that way. I guess I owe it all to great influences such as Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Anita O'Day, Prince, Jill Scott, Jay Z, OutKast. Training from the most patient and giving people on earth; The late Jonthan Callins, Daniel Carr, Leroy Allen, Stanley Hall, Cleveland Eaton, Tommy Stewart, Charles Brown, Doc Williams, The Roszetta Johnson, James Lewis. There are so many! I'm just a sponge.
EPOK MAGAZINE: Your voice reminds me of a modern Billie Holiday for 2012. Especially on "The Break-Up." Who did you work with as far as composers on engineers on "The Break-Up". LAURA LUKE: "The Breakup" was produced by my friend (more like my brother) Byron Thomas. He's a very talented producer and musician. His talents are in such high demand, but he finds time for little old me. He's family and I love him. EPOK MAGAZINE: Your album "Single Mother Chronicles" is a very SOLID album. Your BEST work to date. For your next album what other topics will you take on and tackle in your music? LAURA LUKE: On the next album, I'm reintroducing myself simply as a woman. A woman that loves, hurts laughs, everything that makes me, me. My spirituality will be incorporated more into the lyrical content and the topics will be about life, period. EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you use the same people or do you like to work with new people when recording? LAURA LUKE: I like to work with one producer per project. To me, making music is like making babies. One project, One producer, and One Laura Luke yields One beautiful kid. EPOK MAGAZINE: How many albums do you currently have out? LAURA LUKE:I have my Freshman album; Single Mother Chronicles out along with a few singles. Stay tuned for more! 35. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: Where do you draw your topics from to write music? LAURA LUKE: My life experiences, my hopes, my dreams, my insecurities, my strengths, and everything and everyone around me. EPOK MAGAZINE: Your style is truly yours. You don’t sound like ANYONE else but Laura Luke. There are moments where I may here a little Erykah Badu, Nelly Furtado, and Billie Holiday. But for the most part you have created your on style. How would you describe your style of music? What would you call it? LAURA LUKE: It was hard to narrow it all down because it's almost a mixture of everything really. But, I call it Pop Jazz. EPOK MAGAZINE: You opened up for big R/B names like Ledisi (who is a beast) Dornell Jones, and Julie Dexter. What other artist can you see yourself being an opening act for or would like to become an opening act for? LAURA LUKE: Jill Scott, Corinne Bailey Rae, Joe, and/or know. Very good chick. Jaafar Erykah Badu. Whether it's vocals, writing, or performance, is my brother from another there is something about each of them that has made an immother. Excellent vocalist. pression on my artistry. EPOK MAGAZINE:I know your familiar with Kibibi (the mic melter) Ree'Al, Black & Mild, Jaafar and you've worked with Mz. Joi before. What do you think about the future of music and female R/B Singers in Alabama? LAURA LUKE: Kibibi's my girl (Lol). Not only is she my daughter's God Mother, but she is a phenomenal singer. I've always looked up to Christany and Sharron of Black & Mild. They were on the music scene a long time before I came about. Ree'Al is the hardest working female artist I
36. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
However, his writing has impressed me more than anything. He truly writes from his heart. Mz.Joi is a hardworking, single mom who pursues her career with no fear. I really admire and respect that about her. Then there's artists like Logan, Toya Foya Soul, Reggie of
Yung Volkalz, Alvin Garrett, and so many others. I feel like there has always and will always be great music AND great female singers/artists in Alabama. I look at us, Alabama artists, like paintings in an art gallery. We're all waiting. Waiting to be pulled from the dark corner in the back storage room. Waiting to be hung on the wall. Waiting to be displayed for the world to see and benefit from what we have to offer. Being the optimist that I am, I'm inclined to believe that will happen sooner than later. EPOK MAGAZINE: You had a book release recently called Finding Love. Talk about your Book Release that happened on June 1, 2012. LAURA LUKE: My book is called SINGLE MOTHER CHRONICLES: FINDING LOVE. It was released on JUNE 1st. It's and urban love story about 4 mothers from a familiar neighborhood once called the "Brickyard" in Ensley, Alabama. They all struggle and eventually overcome their own unique struggles. These women eventually find the love they are looking for in strange and unexpected places. For some, a little too late. EPOK MAGAZINE: You had two shows at Legends on May 25th & 27th that were amazing. What other shows do you have coming up in the future? In Birmingham, Al or other states? LAURA LUKE: I see you've been researching me! (Lol) That's what's up. So far, I have dates set up for Montgomery, AL and Atlanta, GA. I haven't lined up a lot of music performance shows. My main focus is promoting my book right now. Continue to check out my website, FB, and other media networks. I will keep everyone posted on any music performances, events, and appearances coming up. EPOK MAGAZINE: When can we expect a new album from Laura Luke? Are 37. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
you working on new material? LAURA LUKE:I won't throw out any dates. However, I will say that I'm back in the studio. I'm a little rusty (Lol…..), but I'm finding my groove and I'm having a lot of fun. I originally introduced myself as a mom on the first album. On the next album, I'm introducing other parts of myself. I'm not just Lola's mother (Lol….). I was, currently, and/or will be someone's friend, someone's counselor, someone's lover, someone's slut, someone's headache (Lol….), somebody's world. That's what you can expect. EPOK MAGAZINE: What's in the future of music for Ms. Laura Luke? LAURA LUKE: My book, SINGLE MOTHER CHRONICLES: FINDING LOVE electronically released June 1st. Check out my new website: www.lauralukeonline.com. It has updates on my new book and new music to come. Oh- and don't forget to check me out on Facebook and twitter. I rarely tweet, but I'm working on it *wink*
38. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
39. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Akayshia Barbee aka Katybug was born October 30, 1991 in Decatur, AL. Katybug began dancing for fun at the age of eight. By the age of twelve she was performing regularly in talent shows and at events. These performance’s lead to larger events such as Juneteenth in Addison and at multiple events during the Magic City Classic throughout the years. Her love for performing and entertaining a crowd lead to her becoming a cheerleader while attending Decatur High School.
Because Katybug grew up around older friends who were deejay’s and recording artists, She spent time in music studios and slowly she learned to play songs and deejay. One night while attending with friends, Katybug volunteered to assist the deejay for a few hours and what began as a fun hobby of deejaying has lead to her frequently deejaying events at clubs such as Bench Warmers II, Club Xplosions, Von Braun Center, Club Vegas, & other venues around Alabama.
As an artist Katybug has recorded several features on other local artists songs. But a few months ago she had the opportunity to record her first song at Polaryzed Entertainment with Polaryz called "Don't Hate". This would become her first single and it is one of the songs that she always performs on stage.
Last but not least is dance. Dance is Katybug's one true passion in life. During January, while auditioning for "So You Think You Can Dance" Debby Allen herself invited Katybug to attend her dance studio in Los Angeles, CA, during the month of July. This would be a great opportunity to further her skills and knowledge of dance. So until then, Katybug will be teaching Hip Hop Dance classes at LWP Studios. Offering her talents to teach children fun Hip Hop routines. While, also creating more complex choreography for artists and entertainers to use on stage, during their performances and music videos.
EPOK MAGAZINE: You rap, sing, and dance which is good to be diverse in this music industry. Which art do you like the best? Singing, Dancing or Rapping? Which art-form REALLY defines who Katybug is as an artist? KATYBUG: That is hard to say, because I have been singing, rapping and dancing my entire life and I often do them all at the same time. But, If I had to choose just one it would be dance. Because, dance is my comfort zone and probably my strong point at this time. It is by far my favorite way to express my emotions within any given art form. So, I am a dancer who loves to rap and sing. EPOK MAGAZINE: So your also one of the host on The Mix-show in Decatur, Alabama. Explain your role as a hostess? What does your job entail? What all do you do for the show?
KATYBUG:I stand in as a Co-Host on the live shows. And then I do interviews on location with artist. I think my role on the show would be to bridge the gap between the young viewers and the older audience. I am mature enough to relate to the older people who enjoy the show, but I am young enough to know what the younger viewers want to hear and how they think. EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you deejay sometimes on the show? KATYBUG: No, I haven't deejayed live on The Mix-show yet. But, I will very soon. EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you get into deejaying? How long have you been deejaying? KATYBUG: When I was very young my dad would always take me to a studio downtown in Decatur, AL. It was where the group Frekznatcha had their music studio and all their equipment. I would watch DJ Dream, Ced D, and Lil D playing music on the turn tables with stacks of records on the floor every where. And I was just so curious about it and I wanted to learn. So, over time Ced D would show me a little more and a little more until I slowly became able to do it on my own. EPOK MAGAZINE: Who taught you how to deejay? 41. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
KATYBUG: I would say that Ced D would be the person who really taught me about Beat per Minute and is still helping me to mix better and how to choose a good selection of songs to play. EPOK MAGAZINE: Dee-jaying is a serious craft. Many people take it very serious. So I have to ask do you know the history and the four elements of Hip Hop? Do you know all the Elements of Hip Hop?(deejaying, emceeing, graffitti art, and breaking or breakdancing). What do you think about the Four elements of Hip Hop? KATYBUG: I do know there is history to Deejaying and how important a great Deejay was to the first people to emcee and perform break dancing on the streets. The four things to me represent a very important way to express your feelings and emotions publicly to others in a manner that best explains how you feel inside. That is the very reason all four were shown so much in Run DMC, LL Cool J, KRS-ONE, Public Enemy, Kurtis Blow and all the pioneers videos. My dad had me listening to and watching all those artist when I was younger just like his parents had him listening to the Temptations. History goes in cycles and you must really have an understanding of your past to ensure that you are proceeding down the right path into your future. EPOK MAGAZINE: As a deejay which do you prefer to use wax or digital? Or Both? KATYBUG: I prefer to touch the wax and put the needle on the groove and cue each song in the headphones before I play it. Touching the wax almost makes me feel like the music is flowing through me and directly into the speakers when I am deeJaying. Therefore, I choose to use the Serato system right now. Because it is the best of both worlds. You literally have a record there to touch and feel. But, the songs are actually the laptop so it makes finding the song you want to play next so much easier then flipping through crate after crate of records. EPOK MAGAZINE: Are you better on wax or digitally? Or Both? Explain. KATYBUG: It is hard to say, I have only really ever Dee– jayed on wax. As a child I played around on Technic 1200 turntables with real records. And now I use Vestex PDX-2000. And thanks to the technology of Serato, I can use a laptop with an external hard drive that has over 50,000 songs on it and instantly find and cue a song. But, to actually play it I still move the needle and spin the wax and slide the cross fader. 42. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: How long have you been singing and rapping? KATYBUG:I have been singing since about ten years old first at church and then in school chorus as I grew older. I began rapping and repeating other people raps on the radio or while watching music videos about that time as well. But I didn’t start writing my own lyrics to raps until I was about 13 or 14. So it has been about six years now. EPOK MAGAZINE: Have you had any professional vocal training? KATYBUG:As far s professional training goes, I have had a few choir directors work with me and my chorus teacher in high school. But I have never had one-on-one vocal lessons at my home. I use what I know about singing and what I have been taught and practice a lot. EPOK MAGAZINE: You said Aaliyah is your favorite female entertainer. What other female R/B or Pop female artist do you like? KATYBUG: Beyonce. I really enjoy listening to Beyonce because a lot of her words move my spirit. She really writes meaningful lyrics to her songs. EPOK MAGAZINE: Which art-form singing or dancing would you like to pursue as a serious career? KATYBUG: At this moment, Dance has opened so many opportunities for me and that seems to be what the majority of the people recognize me as "A great dancer." EPOK MAGAZINE: How did you come up with the name Katybug? Who gave you the name Katybug? What does it mean? KATYBUG: Wow, were did the name Katybug originate. This is the first time that I have ever been asked that question. But it is not a stage name. Katybug is actually a real nickname. Family, friends, teachers and everyone have always just called me Katybug since the day I was born. So I would have to say my Mom started calling me her little Katybug. Possibly it is a short version of my name Akayshia and the name just stuck with me. EPOK MAGAZINE: Do you write your own material? KATYBUG: Yes. I write all my own lyrics for R&B songs and my raps. I am working with a few great writers to improve my skills, but I definitely write my on material. EPOK MAGAZINE: What producers have you worked with so far? 43. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
KATYBUG: Right now I have mainly worked with two producers. My best friend KPonDaBeat and Polarys from Polaryzed Entertainment. EPOK MAGAZINE: You're very agile and flexible as a dancer. Have you had any professional dance lessons before? Ballet? Lyrical? Tap? African? Modern? If so how long did you take dance lessons? KATYBUG: I have received a little ballet and contemporary training as a dancer. Most of my flexibility and energy comes from my training as a cheerleader. You have to bring it and be hype for the crowd. So I would say that I developed my stage presence and ability to connect with the audience from field cheering, as for my style of dance and my moves while dancing. I am completely self-taught with very little formal training. EPOK MAGAZINE: You're very creative and free when you dance. I’m a freestyle dancer. I do a lot of breakdance moves. Would you consider yourself a freestyle dancer or a trained dancer? Or Both? KATYBUG: I consider myself a free style dancer with a love and passion to choreograph beautiful routines. Even when I freestyle some of the moves come from my heart and some are moves I have thought about or practiced before. I prefer to say that I am more free form dancer. I will Choreograph a routine and do it just a little different each time but the basis of the steps and timing of the routine remain the same each time. Hopefully, you can teach me a few break dance moves. As long as I don’t have to be upside down too much.
44. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
EPOK MAGAZINE: I know you did backup dancing for the song entitled “Wow” by female rapper Lady Lace. What was it like working with Lady Lace? KATYBUG: Working with Lay Lace in one word is AMAZING. How many people can tell you that Lady Lace sang Happy Birthday to them. To me Lady Lace is very humble and so nice to be around as person and as and artist. EPOK MAGAZINE: Who are some of your influences when it comes to female dancers? KATYBUG: The comparison when I dance to
Ciara has been made countless times. But I would say that my three main influences would be Debbie Allen, Ciara, and Janet Jackson. Oh, and how could I forget Aaliyah. She had some amazing moves too. Can I have four influences?....... EPOK MAGAZINE: Where does Katybug see herself or would like to be in five years from now with your music? KATYBUG: In five years that sounds so far away but it will be here before I know it. I want to create meaningful music. Fun music with a meaning that you can dance to as well. I actually want to create songs that I enjoy and that I would want to dance to. That way I can create music and dance to my own songs. And hopefully others will appreciate my music and dance as much as I do. 45. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Looks like Rihanna was the focal point of a love triangle this weekend after her rumored boo, Philly rapper Meek Mill, and ex-boyfriend Chris Brown exchanged subliminal jabs at one another on Twitter. "U took me off ya song cause she let me watch da throne! #dreamsandnightmares," Meek tweeted (and quickly deleted) in the hours after Brown revealed his artwork and track listing for his upcoming album, Fortune. "She's a dream chaser!" Brown tweeted in response, referencing Mill's recent mixtape title. "There are alot of dreamers so she'll be running forever!" Meek fired back, "Dese chicks belong 2 da game‌ not u! Never get confused and that's all u!" In typical Breezy fashion, Brown opted to take the high road and exited the Twitter beef before it could get ugly, "Time to be a grown up!" he tweeted Tuesday morning (May 29). "Getting off the path happens. A Positive outlook shapes my future." The drama seems to have started after Rih Rih was pictured enjoying strippers at one of Meek Mill's birthday parties last month. Later when his Dreamchasers 2 mixtape came out Meek made several references to the Bajan pop princess that solidified the rumors. "Boy I got your favorite singer really tryna f**k tonight," he rapped on the tape's intro before name-checking her, "My new young chick look exactly Rihanna," on the song "A1." It's clear that Chris Brown was angry about something after he released a song that subliminally dissed an ex on May 9, just three months after the former lovers reunited musically for remixes of their songs "Birthday Cake" and "Turn Up the Music." "Don't f--- with my old b----- like a bad fur/Every industry n---- done had her/Trick or treat like a pumpkin just to smash her/B----- breaking codes but I'm the password," Brown raps over the "Way Too Cold" beat. Rihanna took offense to the song and reportedly unfollowed him on Twitter. While Brown and Mill were engaged in their Twitter feud, Rihanna was down in Miami, celebrating Memorial Day weekend on the set of French Montana's video "Pop That" and more important, in the club holding hands with oft-rumored boo Drake, reports Necole Bitchie. Drake jumped in on the subliminal beef, tweeting "Oh that's yur ho? That's our ho too. lol." Rih Rih joined in too, making light of the situation by tweeting, "The best part is that EYE get to choose. Cupid stay away from my ho's!!!"
46. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
Last night in Atlanta, Monami Entertainment - along with NFGTV, Ciroc, Nuvo, Hip Hop Weekly and Cintron Energy Drink - threw a lively premiere party for VH1's highlyanticipated reality spin-off "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta." Cast members Rasheeda, K.Michelle, Mimi Faust, Erica Dixon, Karlie Redd, Joseline Hernandez, Momma Dee, Stevie J, Lil Scrappy, Kirk Frost, Ariane and executive producers Mona Scott-Young (Monami), Stefan Springman (NFGTV) and Toby Barraud (NFGTV) were the stars of the evening, as over 300 guests packed Frank Ski's Restaurant to preview the first episode. The evening began with a press Q&A with the cast moderated by V103 midday personality and HGTV's "Property Virgins" host Egypt Sherrod followed by the episode screening (also hosted by Egypt with husband DJ Fadelf on the turntables). The event closed out with a performance by Stevie J and rapper Benzino's band The Magnificent 757s. Additional guests included Jazze Pha, Dave Mays, Bernard Bronner, Phaedra Parks, Apollo Nida, Derek J, Sharlinda Parker, Sabrina Rowe and many more. Two of BET's brightest stars are moving on to new adventures. Terrence J and Rocsi, the popular hosts of 106 & Park for the past seven years, will be leaving the show. Stephen G. Hill, President of Music Programming & Specials for BET Networks, confirms the news in a statement: “Today, after seven exciting years, 106 & Park hosts Terrence J and Rocsi announced that they will be leaving the show. It is no secret that there are a number of opportunities coming their way and we’re fortunate that they’ve been with 106 & Park for so long. They will be staying on the show for a while, so that we can have a 'victory lap' — a celebration of their years at the helm of 106 & Park — before their departure. Terrence J and Rocsi are destined for great success and we at BET Networks will always take pride in being their original home — and be a place where I hope they’ll always feel welcome.” Terrence and Rocsi made an emotional announcement on today's 106 & Park, sharing stories from their years on the show. "The first day I cracked the mic on 106, I was staying on a cot in a basement," Terrence said, while Rocsi added, "Until the moment we leave, we pledge to bring you young Black culture. It continues to be our honor to do this for you." The co-hosts recalled memorable events they covered over the years, including the Haiti earthquake, the deaths of Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston and the inauguration of the nation's first Black president. "We are humbled at the opportunity to be a part of your lives," Terrence summed up, before promising that "we have a huge farewell show coming for you guys. We're going to be leaving with a bang." While neither have elaborated on future plans, both likely have plenty of opportunities in Hollywood. Terrence recently starred in the smash hit comedy Think Like a Man, while Rocsi holds supporting roles in Gang of Roses 2: Next Generation and the upcoming drama Soul Ties. 47. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
48. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
50. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE
51. EPOK MAG BHAMS FIRST URBAN MAGAZINE