The Konnected Magazine (Winter 2012) by Kevan Glover

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DRUMMA BOY TABLE OF CONTENTS

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DA CROWE’S NEST

Serving the Carolinas for over 20 years.

BLOOD RAW

Find out what he has been up to since the split with Young Jeezy.

DRUMMA BOY

Let’s see what one of the hottest producers in the game had to say.

VERSE SIMMONDS

One of the hottest new artist out.

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JOYA

RAMPAGE

BETTIE GRIND

From singing back up for Mary J. Blige to doing her own thing. See what he’s been up to since the Filpmode Squad. See who is on his new single.

DISTRIBUTION

EDITOR IN CHIEF: KEVAN GLOVER

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Two Years and Sexually Frustrated.....Why?? So one of my girlfriends is upset with her boyfriend of a couple of years. I listened to her complain about him and why they are arguing. To me it sounds like the repetitive argument that happens every other week. So I have learned to just listen to friends when they are venting, they don’t always want you to chime in and state your opinion. But this time she added something new to the conversation. She said with his “wack ass d*ck”. I then said “HUH?”, and let out a lil chuckle... no I’m lying...I busted out laughing!!! Then I opened up my big mouth (I will apologize later to my friend) and said “You have been sexing this dude for 2 years and it’s wack??????? Girl you crazy!!!!” See this is what bothers me about some women. They rant and rave about their boo and he is this and he is that. Sh*t gets real and then the truth comes out about his “WACK ASS D*CK”. So now I’m looking like you have been sexually frustrated for all of these years...poor lil tink tink (lol!). Ladies, we are always yelling and screaming about being so independent. We got our own car, house, job and we don’t need a man for shit.... right? But when you do have a man you want him to provide you with some good sex since you have provided everything else for yourself..right? I’m just saying if your man is everything you want and desire but you aren’t sexually satisfied, why go 2 years in that situation? Why not make it better for yourself? If Mista is climbing on top of you and you’re still not satisfied when it’s all over, then that is your fault. If the only climax you are receiving is from oral, then sweetie you are totally denying yourself. You have taken control of all other aspects of your life, don’t exclude the sexual aspect. Performing oral on a woman is great but that shouldn’t be your only climax during sex. There are so many erogenous zones and to know all of yours will help you tremendously. Even if your man isn’t well endowed that shouldn’t stop you from getting yours. Take control ladies, explore different sexual positions that will benefit you and if he isn’t providing enough four play to at least get you hot and bothered then you have to assist him. I won’t go into detail but trust me; you can make a bad situation good, a good situation great, and a great situation excellent!!!!! As we get older, our bodies change so therefore you have to change with it. You can’t do the same thing you did when you were 25 if you are now 35 and the things that satisfied you in your 20’s will definitely not satisfy you in your 30’s. Now this doesn’t apply to everyone but I’m pretty sure we all have come across a girlfriend or boyfriend who has said their partner’s sex is wack. When maturing in different aspects of your life don’t leave anything to chance. Even if it takes 2 or 3 tries make sure each one is better than the other. Please don’t go a year and beyond being sexually frustrated with your partner (lol)!!!! So here is my plug...Passion Parties Guide to Great Sex is a great book that provides detailed information on ways to elevate lovemaking to extraordinary heights. All sales benefit the Passion Parties Charitable Foundation which supports organizations that assist women, children, and families affected by breast cancer, autism, or multiple sclerosis. *side note* I am going to buy this for my friend and hopefully it will help her!!!

Article credits: www.meetthefresh.com

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KNOXX Instagram.com/howdiedoody

Myspace.com/spacecadetproductions

Soundcloud.com/howdiedoody

Twitter.com/HowdieDoOdyVA

Youtube.com/user/yujock/videos

Knoxx - I moved to Harrisburg, PA from Africa. At the age of 8, arriving at a foreign land, it’s very difficult to not be easily influenced due to a heightened sense of curiosity. As far as music, I’d have to say I’ve ALWAYS had an attraction to it..more towards the artistic aspect of it. The creation due to how it effected me. I grew up listening to Lucky Dube, Kenny Rogers, Miriam Makeba. I grew up listening to artists that were very far from the current genre one would quickly classify me to be in. Hip Hop. It wasn’t until I heard DMX’s ‘It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot’ that I was truly touched by not only what Hip Hop is...but what it could be! That was the biggest influence for me as not only an artist, but one that truly found his home..Hip Hop.

Reverbnation.com/howdiedoody

NEW Single

KM - Being born in Africa and moving to Harrisburg,PA at a young age, what influenced you to do music?

Facebook.com/HowdieDoOdy

“Feeln Like a Giant” Prod by Bamm Bamm Beatz

Knoxx - I was born in West Africa. Sierra Leone to be exact. To be even more precise, a little village called Sefadu.

Facebook.com/HowdieDoOdyRVA

KM - Knoxx let everyone know where at you from?

KM - Do you plan to go back to Africa to perform or mentor other artist? Knoxx - I’ve always believed that I was sent to America for the purpose of obtaining whatever skills are required for one person to change the lives of many. I do intend on returning home someday. Returning not only for the sake of performing my music, but also to provide inspiration for improvement through the knowledge and experiences I’ve obtained in America. I’d love nothing more than to be given the opportunity to return with these gifts. KM - What can you bring to this music industry that is different?

Howdie DoOdy

Knoxx - I’ve always believed in the art preceding the industry aspect of music. I believe that when the art is at it’s strongest, the industry will easily profit from this strength. There is a balance that has to be respected. Not unlike the ideology of Yin and Yang, of course. It’s been proven time and time again. I think with this belief instilled within myself, I will always desire to provide a different sound. To answer this question more directly, I believe I can contribute in redirecting this industry to a more honest path. A more profitable path. Through my work ethic and the product that comes of that, I think I can provide the inspiration required to put the art before the industry. A memorable song is one that captures a certain time and place for the listener. The vessel required to capture this moment can only be created by a true artist of a specific craft. KM - What’s the single that you are promoting now? Knoxx - The current single I am promoting from my album ‘Love’s Reflection In A Broken Mirror’ is titled ‘Heartbreak Parade’.

KM - Who are some of the artist you would like to work with? Knoxx - There’s a specific list. Of course this list is rather lengthy and has only grown over the course of time. To name a few; DMX, Adele, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Dr. Dre, K’Naan, Nas, Akon, Peter Gabriele, Paul Simon, Phil Colins, Jasmine Sullivan, Robin Thicke, JoJo, Lupe Fiasco, Filter, and Primitive Radio Gods. KM - What would you like the world to know about you? Knoxx - The one thing I’d like the world to know about me is that I’m imperfect. I’m a man who was blessed with a gift that allows him to display his imperfections through the means of honesty. I’d like the world to know that everyone is flawed to some degree. You can’t truly be happy before acknowledging yourTHEfaults. KONNECTED MAGAZINE 7

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DOWN BOTTOM MUSIC GROUP

Hit Singles Touchdown by J-Monsta featuring Ziggy Zi and Chop Capo No Subiliminals by J-Monsta featuring Chop Capo and 80 da king Twitter: @SRWEnt @14Roc Youtube: www.youtube.com/TheDBMG Facebook: www.facebook.com/dbmg.srwent The artist known as Quikz is a Charlottesville, Va Upcoming artist who is putting his city on the map. His highly anticipated mixtape “Heaven or Hell” will be hitting the mixtape websites sometime early in 2013. Quikz was enrolled in the MotorCycle Mechanic Institue of Orlando Florida when he was discovered by a Florida rapper known as MO Lyrics. After spending sometime in the urban streets of Florida Quikz returned home with his new found trade and began to Freestyle at local parties. Beginning of 2012 Quikz was approached by Fans and asked when his mixtape was coming out, in response to that he linked up with Local producer Linz Prag, a well known producer in the Charlottesville area. In that time Quikz evolved from a freestyler to a story teller type approach in his music that makes him versatile with his talent. Quikz prides himself in being the “UnderGround MVP Artist of VA” a title given to him by many other underground artist and underground music fans. As of now Quikz is known for his Smash Hits “What You Mad For”, “Doing Wrong” and his most recent single “The Road”.. Quikz has also Ft. in Other C,Ville rappers songs the most noted being “No Such Thang” a track that was released on Charlottesvilles number 1 station in HIP HOP 91.9 WNRN and held the numerous spots in the VaTalent.com top 10, this track included artist from the PaperCapers Camp. Quikz has appeared in N.O.D Films, a highly trafficed youtube channel, FoulFriday interviews which takes place at the local station known as The BoomBox. After Quikz 1st perfomance at StrangeMatter that took place October 29th, in Richmond, Virginia the smash Hit “What You Mad For” was featured on the Coast2Coast/LiquidFire mixtape “Black Out Part2” found on DatPiff.

QUIKZ

FACEBOOK: itsyaboy.quikz TWITTER: @daQuikz For Booking: Email: Daquikz@gmail.com Phone: 434-989-7384

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PHRE$H KM - Let the readers, who may not know, where you are from. PHRE$H- I’m from Greenwood, South Carolina from the wood the country the sticks man, from the bottom. KM - Being from South Carolina, do you think it’s hard to get noticed in the industry? PHRE$H - Yeah it’s hard to get noticed; it’s smaller. Places like Atlanta it’s easier. It’s a lot of hot talent here. I remember a group, Fort Knoxx, that was with Master P, and their career was only Rap City. It’s hard in South Carolina, but we have the talent. Just need more support. KM - We read that you were inspired by Master P, UGK, and Jay Z. How did they inspire you? PHRE$H - Master P inspired me with the “Make them say ugh” and his drive and flow. The attention and money he got also. From there, we start rapping like that. Then, UGK came out with “Big Pimpin’”..Then, Pimp C, the way he move and Bun B just had the flow and Jay Z was just lyrical. KM - You put out two mixtapes Phre$h 4 life & Dead Phre$h. What was the difference between the two projects? PHRE$H - I put out Phresh 4 life. On it, I put a bunch of songs out there for the older crowd and everyone. I made 25 songs and put 18 songs on the CD. I got a lot of fans out there. “Dead Phre$h” ain’t come out yet but it’s going to be a big project. It’s going to be more than just me. I got my boy, Drumma Boy, aka Drum Major; he doing big things with production and engineering. 12

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1HUNNID KM - If you had to pick one artist to work with, whom would it be and why? PHRE$H – It’s a hard question. I like an artist by his drive, so it would have to be Meek Mill, because you can see the hunger in his eyes; we both got the drive and ambition. I would love to get in the studio with him. Maybe he could teach me how to get to the next level. Shout out to Meek Mill. KM - Your close friend got sentenced for two life terms. How did that change your life? PHRE$H - Dirty Red. It affected me beyond music; he was up under my wing. I got into trouble and had to move back to Greenwood. Two months after I moved, he killed someone and got two life terms. I don’t like to talk about it. I try to show people what not to do. Especially, if you ain’t about that life, don’t rap about it. KM - The industry is considered to be oversaturated; what do you bring different to the industry? PHRE$H - My whole life I try to be different; people try to be like everyone else. F**k all that. I follow my own way. The artist blowing up now because they are different. 2 chains different. No one sounds like him. Wiz Khalifa different. He blew up. A lot of rappers talking about the same thing and rapping the same way and falling off. I know what people like. I know what they love and what makes them move, and that’s what I’m going to give them. Facebook/Phresh100 Reverbnation/Phresh100 Twitter @MistaPhresh

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BLOOD RAW KM – What was your first impression of Jeezy? BR – I saw his movement. I witnessed he was from the streets like myself, and I wanted to be a part of it. We had the same beliefs, and we stick to the script. KM – Were you still in the camp when the beef with Jeezy and Gucci Mane started? BR – Yes, I was there. But I was on the road doing my shows, so we got up when we could. KM – What’s your favorite album that you made so far? Interview By Ellis B. KM – Where were you born and raised?

BR – I don’t have a favorite. They all have some type of sentimental value to me.

BR – I was born and raised in Panama City, FL.

KM – What’s next for Blood Raw?

KM – What was it like for you growing up as a child?

BR – We just dropped an album titled Raw Redemption under Keep it 100 Music Group and Big Cat Records. I’m just going to keep working hard and putting out good music. Everything is looking good right now.

BR – I came from the hood, for real. So I witnessed all types of drug activity and violence. That’s what it was like for me. KM – As a child growing up, what was your biggest inspiration? BR – My sister is my biggest influence. We grew up in the same house, and I went the route of the streets and she went to college and opened up her own business. Most people look at people from the ghetto as if they can’t make it, but she did and successfully. KM – How did that lead to you becoming a rapper and linking up with Jeezy? BR – 2003 I had caught a trafficking case and had been to jail twice, so I said I had to do something new. So I start doing music and got good feedback from people. They were saying my voice was different from anyone and started taking it serious. 2005 I bumped into Jeezy in Alabama, where we had a show; he stopped the show, because he couldn’t believe my performance and how the people responded to me. He told people Blood Raw going to be signed to CTE. Not even a week later, I was in Atlanta and we made it happen. 14

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KM – In your own words, what was the reason for the separation from CTE? BR – If something not getting done, just let me go and I can make it happen on my own. I thought they should have done something, especially with marketing and advertising. I tried to establish myself, and my fans stood up for me when my album came out. It is what it is. KM - If it was anything you can do over what would it be? BR - I wouldn’t change anything, because everything happens for a reason & for what’s to come.

Twitter @TRUEBLOODRAW

MONIE DA BARBER At the early age of 8 years old, I took an interest in barbering. Doing my high school years I took art classes which it actually enhance my craft in barbering. It started off as being a hobby for me but as time went on it became second nature. In 2007, I attended the Richmond Technical Center Barber and Cosmetology School. I participated in platform work which gave me the opportunity to demonstrated my craft in barbering. In 2011, I received my barber license and in 2012 I earned my instructor certificate. My speciality is my unique designs in which, I take great pride in doing. I am a firm believer, if you have determination and motivation you will succeed. I know one day my designs will be well known around the world.

All artists and business owners looking to more effectively in reaching your fan and customer base through text marketing visit www.5linx. net/l482259/products. You can also save money on all the essential products and services that you use in your home and business and learn to get paid for doing it. Text Alert-choose a key word that most closely resembles your business and text that word to 55469 or (555444 in Canada) to experience a real world example of how your business can realize the power of text marketing to increase sales or improve communication. For example barber, church, club, daycare, djâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s,comedy,radio, nail salon etc.

SCAN TO VISIT MY WEBSITE

MONIEDABARBER

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Alexandra Berelian-Laurent the granddaughter of a photographer and began modeling as a small child, including various commercials and prints and runway. As her career blossomed she began to focus on avant-guarde, creative fashion shoots. Read more on www.thekonnected.net

Alexandra Berelian-Laurent

Twitter:@Berelian-Laurent Facebook/Alexandra Berelian-Laurent For bookings contact GT management at 540-748-7573

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DRUMMA BOY Interview By Ellis B.

KM - A lot of people think they know, but we want to hear it in your own words, where did you get your start? DRUMMA - My start in music really comes from the family. My grandmother was a piano teacher. My mom was an opera singer. My dad was in the orchestra, and my older brother was making beats. He was cool with Jazzy Pha, pretty much all the legendary producers that were doing their thing in Memphis before me. It was only right. In every direction I looked, there was a music note or an instrument. And then you got Yo Gotti, Three 6 Mafia over there. Let me take what I know from the orchestral side and put it with the streets and start making beats. When my mom moved me from the predominantly black neighborhood into the Suburbs, I stayed out of trouble. That put me in a different environment and slowed me down, where I could actually adapt and become myself. From that point on, I started making beats. KM - At an early age, between classes, you were shopping your mixtape. DRUMMA - Yeah it was a lot of parties. I turned down a lot of parties for at least two years straight. I was just perfecting my craft. I did what I believed was necessary – to fulfill myself and to make myself happy. Let me stay at the crib and get my money right, get my craft perfected, get my work game down. That put in me in a whole different category. KM - I heard there are some idiosyncrasies that you do in the studio, what are they? DRUMMA - Whatever it takes to set the tone. Sometimes I go in there with a record player to get a vibe; the poppin’ and scratchin, sounds gritty and grimy. You know you want to find that personal motivation. Music is my motivation. I have to take it back to what makes me smile from the inside – that old school music from the 70s and 80s. KM - You have worked with a lot of people in the music industry, like Brian Michael Cox. That seemed like a perfect union; what was it like to work with him? 18

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DRUMMA - He is from the church; any musician who came from the church is a no-brainer. He was in the choir growing up. Many people don’t know this about me, but I was in the choir; that’s another part of where I come from. I could just relate to Brian Michael Cox, and he is an amazing individual as far as mentally and physically. Working with him was an honor; he taught me a lot. Anybody that won a Grammy, you definitely want to pay homage to, respect, and study what it was to help make them successful.

KM - Tell me about D Boy Fresh. DRUMMA - I don’t know that is like my alter ego, for real for real. Drumma Boy is the music side—any time I need to speak to the world. When I want to speak to someone I have a problem with, or direct, I use D Boy Fresh. Even through this interview, you’re learning more about me. You learn more information about me through words, through rap, through lyrics. I’m just not rhyming with it; so it’s technically not rap, but I’m rapping to you. That’s D Boy Fresh.

I got another mixtape that I haven’t told anybody about, yet. But y’all are the first to know; it’s called “The King In Me”. I don’tknow when I’m going to drop it, but it’s coming soon. KM - Tell me about The Drum Squad. DRUMMA - It’s a team of writers, producers, songwriters, artists, and people in artist development. We have a whole squad of people doing different things. Young Blue, is 17 out of Mobile, Alabama. He has the number two independent record in the country, called “Go ‘Head”. We’re working a couple deals on the table. We workin’ man. KM - What’s next for Drumma Boy himself? DRUMMA - It’s a lot of pop ups and a lot of surprises. It’s hard to say what’s next, because there’s so much going on. Definitely, right now, there’s Chris Brown’s album coming out this Christmas. We on MGK’s, “Lace Up” album, 2 Chains’s “Based on a True Story” and other projects we are working on. You’ll see me on the TV screen soon, a couple of appearances in movies. We’ve got the clothing line. I put my hands in a lot of different things. I’m looking up to Russell Simmons, to cats like Puff, lookin’ up to cats like Jay-Z, Quincy Jones, and even Kanye. Anybody who done it successfully and strategically, taking themselves onto the better level after they get full. Stay tuned, Man.

Twitter @ DRUMMABOYFRESH www. DRUM-SQUAD.COM

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VERSE SIMMONDS Interview by GiGi Mason KM – What age did you start to have a passion for music? Verse – I always wanted to do music. Sometimes people are blessed into knowing what they want to do, and some people will have to try to figure it out. It’s something I always had a passion for and knew I was going to pursue it after I finished school. KM – Who is someone in the industry you haven’t worked with that you would like to? Verse – That’s a hard one. There are so many artists I want to get it in with, but right now I would have to say Lil Wayne. He’s definitely one I would like to work with. KM – Now are there any particular artists that have influenced or inspired you? Verse – Absolutely. I can go back as far as Babyface and Bob Marley. Another big influence is Kanye West, as well. Because you can never predict what he’s going to do. I think that’s good when you’re an artist. It’s a very important thing to have, so people can’t always predict what you’re going to do but still be in love with the product. It’s like giving someone medicine - they may not know it’s good for them until you give it to them, and they realize it’s the remedy. KM – Is there a special lady in your life? Verse – At the moment no. There are a couple special women at the moment. I’m not in a committed relationship let’s say that. It’s kind of where I want to be right now. As an artist, you don’t have the time. And I’d be selfish to mislead anyone, because I don’t have the time they deserve. KM - What type of women are attracted to? Verse – I like confident woman and ones who have something going on for themselves. I hate lazy women. I feel when you have two people grinding, that’s how it’s supposed to be. Beyoncé not waiting on Jay –Z. That’s how it’s supposed to be. KM – Lastly, do you like the lights off or on? Verse – It don’t matter to me just let me get it. We can leave it on or off. I’m sure we can find something creative to do. KM- What projects are you working on ? A few things, I’m currently working on my new project, the “Boo Thang” song is really buzzing with Kelly Rowland. Also the “Bout That Life” with Young Jeezy is crazy. Working with Luda right now as well. Readers pick up my album because I’m going to give them something that they can just pop in and let it play. There’s not going to be any skipping to the next track. All good music you can play straight through. 20

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Twitter @VerseSimmonds Website : www.VerseSimmonds.com

JOYA

Joya - Yes I did; we were so young. I’ll never forget working with her. Your throat would be on fire, and she would say, “Let’s try it again.” Looking back now it’s like wow, we were there and to know her history now is amazing. KM – Besides Gospel, what are some of your other musical influences? Joya - My mom was kind of a hippie, so my influences to begin with were like the Beatles, Bon Jovi , Duran Duran. I was stuck in that mode. I didn’t get into R&B until Whitney Houston came along. I loved her, and that was my introduction into everything else. KM – You mention Ella Fitzgerald. You said she was one of your alltime favorites. What was it about her? Joya - Her control, the tenacity. I feel like whenever she’s getting ready to start singing, it’s like she’s not human. She’s like some type of correct machine. She’s just amazing. KM – When I say “Here I Am” in relation to your artistry, what memories does that bring about? Joya – It brings about Notorious B.I.G., New York, Hit Factory, D&D Studios, Pete Rock Funkmaster Flex, Redman, the tunnel. I had to make the transition from Detroit to New York. A lot of people took me by the hand and gave me guidance. KM – “Here I am” also the tile of your fist album release in 1995. Being around all those influential people, what was the feeling you had when you album came out?

Interview by Ellis B. KM – Now you’re living in Atlanta right now, but you are from Detroit. Tell us how it was growing up in Detroit Joya – It was great. I love Detroit, because all my roots are there. It definitely prepared me for what’s to come in the big cities, like New York and LA. It’s just a part of me; my heart and soul are always there. KM – I hear you go got your start in Detroit singing at funerals. Joya – Yep I was singing at funerals. Friends would ask, “Can you sing at my cousin’s funeral?” And I would say yeah. A mutual friend passed, and a guy asked me have I ever thought about recording, because I have a great voice. The rest was history.

Joya – I was really nervous, because you want to be received well and you want to do a great job. Once I began touring, I wanted to prove myself. So I worked hard. The label would tell me we have a break in the tour, and that I can come home. I told them that I didn’t need a break. It was a great experience. KM- You toured with Mary J. Blige. How was it singing background for her? Joya – It’s so funny, because I remember the first day of the audition. They said Mary was going to come today and make a decision. But we met before many times when my album came out, though. I didn’t think she would remember me. We starting singing “My Life”, and she looked at me smiled and said hey. It was great. KM – Name some of the projects that you have worked on so the readers can see your body of work. Joya – I worked on the Mary J. Blige tour Live Album. I met Kurupt, who allowed me to work on Voices of Fury, Ray J, Carl Thomas, Lord of the Underground, Monifah, Veronica, Tragedy Khadafi. I can’t name everyone because I will leave people out. I also work with television stations.

KM – How did you meet Vincent Herbert?

KM – What can we look for now coming from Joya?

Joya – I met him recording at the Winans studio, and that’s how we met.

Joya – Well, my new EP is out called “JEWEL”, which is the meaning of Joya. It’s on ITunes. It will be released in four parts. I want to give small pieces of myself to the world.

KM – The Winans are a huge gospel family. Since you are from Detroit, I want to talk about another family there: the Clark Sisters. Their driving force behind them was Dr. Mattie Moss Clark. Did you have some vocal training from her?

www.Thisisjoya.com Facebook.com/Thisisjoya Twitter @JoyaOwens THE KONNECTED MAGAZINE

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Super$tar Money a.k.a Dinero

Twitter @Superstarmoney For Booking: All Real Records, LLC 980-219-2332 popssr29@gmail.com

ARE YOU BOUT DAT LIFE? You met a dude at the club. He’s cute,nice smile, and everything you like physically. Y’all exchange numbers and he says he is going to call you. He calls and y’all have a great conversation. In your mind, you are saying you like dude. He wants to take you out to dinner and you agree. ARE YOU BOUT DAT LIFE? The first date was great! He asks what you are looking for in a man. Your response, “He has to be mature, have his own, and most importantly he has to keep it 100 (yall know everybody on this keep it real shit lol). You add you are single, have your own place, car, and are a working woman. You’re not looking to settle down, but if it happens it happens. You’re just having fun and exploring your options. He says he works, has his own place, own car, and he is in an “off and on” relationship with his daughter’s mother. He isn’t looking to settle down, he is just having fun. ARE YOU BOUT DAT LIFE? Weeks have gone by and you two really hit it off. You have been on several dates, hung out with his friends, and spent the night at his apartment. Everything is good in your eyes. He answers your calls, sends you the sweetest text messages, comes whenever you need him, cooks you dinner...he is a 10...right? Before you know it a month has gone by and you are really feeling dude. You are spending less time with the girls and more time with him; y’all went away for a weekend, all expenses paid by him! Your all smiles! ARE YOU REALLY BOUT DAT LIFE? This morning you left his apartment. You went to work, he went to work and everything was good. You called him at lunchtime like you normally do and no answer. You text him, no answer. A week has gone by and no answer from your boo. You are confused because it was all good just a week ago and now your feelings have come into play. The weekend has come and you are out with the girls when he finally calls, but you don’t answer. Ladies, y’all know how we do! Feelings flaring, you are in “bitch mode” and you are calling him everything under the sun. You are saying, “HE WASN’T BOUT DAT LIFE!!!” Two weeks has gone by and you see his face pop up on your Iphone; you answer “Hello”. He says, “Hey babe,” and emotions are rocketing like the 4th of July! He is everything from a no good SOB, to a bitchass! He sits back and lets you vent and then says, “Why are you so angry? I called you but you didn’t answer. I told you I was on and off with my daughter’s mother and I wasn’t looking to settle down. I was just having fun.” So ladies, I ask, “ARE YOU REALLY BOUT DAT LIFE?” He kept it real, treated you the way you deserved, and no one talked about being a couple. Y’all was just having fun... right? Do we really want a dude to keep it real? Do we know how to control our feelings and emotions when he treats us the way that we deserve? The biggest question is, do we really know what we want? Article by: www.meetthefresh.com Grammer was born as Deon Morgan on June 8th in the beautiful and unspoiled city of Scotland Neck, North Carolina. Along with the outdoor Paradise, Grammer has brought his brilliant and vibrant sound that distinctly added more pizzas and flavor to Scotland Neck. As a child music played a vital role in his home life and with the influence of his Mother and Uncles it was almost immediate that Grammer was destined for greatness. He began performing before small groups and friends – each time leaving them in awe. By the age of fourteen he knew that his life’s dream was to become a Rap Artist. Grammer has been in the entertainment business for sixteen years engaging and electrifying audiences in Charlotte, North Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia and New York City. He has opened for groups such as Destiny Child and other Recording Artists such as Fat Joe, Ciara, Pastor Troy, 50 Cent, TI, Brian McKnight and Snoop Dog just to name a few. Along with his magnetic performances, Grammer also owns his own recording company called On the Grind Entertainment; establish since 2004. With his strong sense of community coupled with his southern hospitality, Grammer not only perfects his craft but his doors are opened to other Artist / Entertainers who are working diligently in making their mark on the world. In an exclusive interview, Grammer was asked, “What makes you different?” He was quoted as saying, “I’m different because I don’t follow a trend. I set my own trends. I have many different styles so I can never be placed in a box. I’m an Artist not a Rapper Grammer – Rapper extraordinaire is a true visionary in his own sense. Whatever he envisions, he breathes life into and his creations are nothing less that magnificent. Grammer presses towards the future and looking back is not an option for him. In the same interview he was also asked, “Do you have any comments on your future plans?” He answered, “My future plan is to sign a well-deserved contract with a major label.” Grammer is a true entrepreneur. He is a Visionary, an Entertainer, an Artist, a Rapper, and a Business Owner. Get his music on reverbnation.com/grammer . Follow him on Twitter @Grammerotg THE KONNECTED MAGAZINE 23

AMANDA POLLARD

Rising singer and songwriter Amanda Pollard is no stranger to music. Singing since she learned to speak, Amanda was formally introduced to music as a child and found her passion for performance while attending Northwest School of the Arts in Charlotte, North Carolina. She majored in vocal music becoming a classically trained first soprano and combines her impressive classical training withextensive jazz and musical theater techniques to create a dynamic range of vocal abilities. With an all-American, fun and flirty style, this Southern glamour girl is more than meets the eye. Her work ethic rivals industry veterans and her dedication to her craft as an entertainer has garnered the respect and support of fans and fellow musicians alike. Amanda’s performance resume includes National Anthem performances for the Carolina Panthers, the former Charlotte Hornets and the Charlotte Knights along with countless performances throughout the Southeastwhere she receives high accolades for her lively and energetic performances.Amanda is a two time Carolina Music Award winner for Best Female R&B Artist, 2011 Queen City Award winner for Female R&B Artist of the Year and having evolved beyond the borders of her home state of North Carolina, Amanda was nominated for a 2011 Southern Entertainment Award for Slept on Artist of the Year. Since embarking on her musical journey, Amanda’s life has revolved around her music. Blessed with a natural gift of writing, Amanda began songwriting as a teen and hopes to capture the essence of human experience in her songs. “People get sad, get their hearts broken, and fall in love. But people also wonder what life is all about, they want to inspire others, they get happy, dance and have fun,” she said. “I want to capture all of that in my music and I’m inspired by everyone and everything around me.” With hopes of becoming a major recording artist, Amanda is an active member of ASCAP and has the determination and talent to stop at nothing to make it to the top. Amandasmusiconline

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RAMPAGE

1st Lieutenant of The Flipmode Squad Interview by Ellis B. KM – Now you have been in the game for a while so you must have some type of musical influence in your family. Who influenced you growing up in Brooklyn? Rampage – My mom’s held down me and my sisters and my pops was making music with my Uncle Brian. He was a guitarist, so that’s where I get my influence from. KM – How was it coming in the game in 1992 with the “Beware of the Rampsack”? Rampage – It was on Rowdy Records; it was a great experience being with my first cousin, which is Busta Rhymes. He saw my grind, and I was with him every day in the Leaders of the New School era. So he paved the way for me to make moves. KM – Where did you get the Last Boyscout tag from? Rampage – It came from battling in the park in Brooklyn. Also having that aggressive voice and being in Flatbush around Special Ed, UTFO, Dana Dane, Chubb Rock, Whodini and Brother J from X- Clan inspired me to have my Last Boyscout theme ‘cause back then you needed a theme. KM – When the Flipmode formed, how long were they around you before you formed the group? Rampage – In the beginning, it was always me, Busta, Splif and DJ Scratchator. Sham came along when I was shooting my “Take it to the Streets” video in Queens. Lord Have Mercy was also with us at the time. We went to a Q-Tip concert and seen Rah Digga spitting on stage pregnant and she was going in. So Q-Tip and Busta chopped it up, and the next thing I know she was the 1st Lady of Flipmode. KM – Now y’all had a very hot album and everyone was wondering what happen with Flipmode. Rampage – I tell you this. We all talked, and there comes a point when everyone got to do their own thing. There’s nothing wrong with that. We just had to take a break. Maybe we will get back together and do it even bigger. KM – Being a rapper you have to have bars, but you write records for other people also. Rampage - I ghost write for a lot of people in the industry over the years. I’m always writing, but lyrically I’m a monster. I get a lot of weird calls about helping people out with hooks or songs. Again, I thank my father for that musical gene. I’m nice with that pen! KM – You got certifications to support that you’re nice: Grammy’s, MTV Awards, BET Awards. Speak on that. 26

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Rampage - There’s a lot of artists that never get to see these awards. I put in work from the ground up. I call the awards degrees. When you go to school the degree lets you know you accomplished great work. I get to see my degrees. I signed up in ’92, and I just wanted to rap I didn’t expect all this to happen, and I had a cousin who really cared for me and I haven’t looked back since. KM – You work with, not only write, for Hip Hop artists but R&B artists, as well. How does that differ? Rampage – R&B is bigger, but it’s still the same thing. I don’t know how to sing, but I can write it for someone to sing. If you can produce, you should be able to produce for anyone. Being around people like Alisha Keys, Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson, you get inspired. You be in the studio and be like who is this dude and they be like he’s the writer and he making them hits. My pen game is sharp. KM – Tell us what “Ramps World” is. Rampage – It’s about where I’m going, what I’m trying to do, where I’m at right now. People want to know where I’ve been and about all my ups and down, things that you go through as an artist. All the people I’m still in contact with. I didn’t understand the industry in the beginning. It was too fast for me. You got to watch the show; it’s going to keep your attention and give you insight on me as an businessman.

Twitter @therealrampage www.iTunes.com/Rampage

Photography by Magik GFX

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P A T X MI

RATING SCORE CARD KKKKK (CLASSIC) KKKK (GREAT MIXTAPE) KKK (PRETTY GOOD) KK (BELOW AVERAGE) K (NOT GOOD)

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MOST DOPE PRESENTS: Mac Miller You (EP) RATING:KKK Follow @MACMILLER

Fabolous The Soul Tape 2 RATING:KKKK Follow @MYFABOLOUSLIFE

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JUMP OUT THE BOX Written by Jermaine “Maynetayn” Spencer

Facebook, Twitter, Reverbnation, Soundcloud, Tumblr, Intagram, and now Pintrest. Social network sites have turned everyone into a recording artist. Nowadays, promoting your brand of music is as simple as creating an account, adding a few photos, upload a few songs, and add as many “friends” or “followers” as possible. People are even going as far as buying followers to “look” as though they are poppin’. My question is, “does that equal sales?” There are hundreds of thousands of indie artists that are posting to social networks. My TL on twitter and facebook gets flooded with posts from artists within my network. I’m not saying there is anything wrong with getting out there in social media BUT, there are so many more creative mediums to promote a brand of music. I would encourage any indie artists to ask themselves this question, “How can I tap into a market that is not in my social network of friends?” Artists trying to get noticed should check their local listings for all the happenings. Chose the events that relate to the targeted audience and promote. Create promotional materials that are appealing. People love FREE stuff, especially if it looks cool. Don’t get caught up in doing the same thing that everyone else is doing. Doing what everyone else does is the “BOX” that I was referring to in the title. Get creative, consult with a marketing professional, don’t follow trends, and jump out the box. Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Big shout out to Kevan Glover and Konnected Magazine. For more about me visit; www.nticemusic.com | www.bnrrecords.com 28

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Follow me on Twitter @Maynetayn Email info@nticemusiccom

TWEEZY KM- Let the readers know where you’re from.

Tweezy - I was born in Germany, compliments of the military; then we moved to Oklahoma, but I currently reside in Charlotte, NC. KM - Being born in Germany, do you think you have a harder road to persue your dream? Tweezy – No, I think it gave me a broader spectrum, cause I was exposed to all types of music over there. They’re not to bias on what they like from Rock to R&B. The radio stations over there played everything, not just urban stations like here. That gave me a vareity of music to listen to. KM - What was the biggest difference between Oklahoma and Germany? Tweezy - The lifestyle, ‘cause Oklahoma is in the Bible belt. Over in Germany, you can drink at 18 years old, and it’s just more free. KM - Not only are you a singer, but our sources say you play a few instruments, which ones? Tweezy - I play the saxophone, drums, keyboard, and I just recently picked up playing the guitar. I won’t say I’m a professional, but I can make the instruments do what I need them to do. KM - Who are some of the people that influence you? Tweezy – Well, Prince performance and vocally-wise, is very creative, Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, Whitney Houston R.I.P. , and more recent Music Soulchild, DeAngelo, and Erykah Badu. Then my cross over Maroon 5, One Republic, rap side B.O.B, Lupe Fiasco, T.I. , Drake, Wanye but the old Wayne the new Wayne kind of out there now. KM - If you had to compare yourself to one of your role models who would it be and why? Tweezy - I would have to say B.O.B at the moment, because he plays instruments, sings, not sing sing, but he do his thing and produce. Also, he snaps when he raps; so it would have to be him. KM - You’ve shared the stage with big name artists, like Paul Wall, Scarface, Pretty RIcky and more. What did that feel like? Tweezy - It felt like I made it. Couldn’t nobody tell me nothing. But now it’s a humbling experience and stepping stone. To say I shared the stage with those big names was a real big Blessing. For them to recongize my talent, most people don’t get that experience, and I did even though I wasn’t the main act. KM - Last question: Let the people know what to expect from you. Tweezy - You can expect some of what you like, a lot of what you love, and a little of what you don’t know. My music is going to evolve, as well as me as a person. I want everyone to grow with me on my musical journey. I’m going to give y’all what you want to hear coming out the gate; then you going to get all of me and just accept me. Follow us on Twitter @Pizazz_Ent Facebook/Pizazz.mgmt

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Manager: Fresh YatesRy@gmail.com Publicist: Sha’Linda Jeanine ShaLindaJeanine@gmail.com www.BETTIEGRIND.com Follow: @BETTIEGRIND 30

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THE NEW FACE OF THE INDUSTRY

Konnected Quickie “I’ve started to look at life differently. When you’re thanking God for every little you – every meal, every time you wake up, every time you take a sip of water – you can’t help but be more thankful for life itself, for the unlikely and miraculous fact that you exist at all.” -A.J. Jacobs I came across this quote the other morning; it’s a humbling reminder of how insignificant we really are in the scheme of life while being a part of the grandest scheme of all at the same time… God’s Kingdom.. Be blessed and stay Thankful this holiday season :}

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