Triple the Focus January 2012 by TRIPLE THE FOCUS E-MAGAZINE

COVER PHOTO CREDIT

PHOTOGRAPHER: Ann-Loy Morgan

January 2012 4

Editor’s Note 20

Art & Content Director’s Note

Casual Chic

The Chromatic Experience

Strictly The Best: A Tribute to Joel Chin 23

Anya From Rogue to Runway

Stacey’s Favorites

I-Octane EP Launch

Ashamed to Die

Creative Director’s Note

She’s A Perfect Ten! Get Hooked on Denyque

The Perfect Storm is Brewing

23 3

Editor’s Note NEW YEAR, NEW FOCUS, RENEWED SPIRIT Dear reader, Happy New Year! I trust you all had a great holiday season and that you are now armored to take 2012 to greater heights. In preparing for our first issue of the New Year, I sat and thought about the direction of the magazine and our PR firm, Triple 7 Entertainment. In doing so, I saw a picture of a tunnel on the internet and it captivated my attention for no reason and every reason. I wondered for a while why I was so fascinated and the only meaning I could draw was that it represented my current state of mind – tunnel vision. While 2011 was a year of laying foundation, 2012 would be the year we build. Looking at the photo brought me to a place of reflection and while I am hesitant to make New Year’s resolution, I think I will give it a shot this year and try with all my might to stick with them. I fully realize that I will need to make realistic ones in order to be successful in my plight so here goes nothing. I am making huge leaps and bounds this year, more so than I have done before and that is partly due to the inspiration I got from our featured artists Natalie Storm and Denyque. These bright young acts are making it on their own terms while drawing strength from artists that came before them. I was also inspired by Anya Ayoung Chee, winner of Season 9’s “Project Runway.” She has used personal loss to create her clothing line, PILAR and walked away from a personal scandal to become a powerhouse. With the assistance of Lifetime Networks, we were able to feature Anya’ line and give you a few behind the scene photos from the show. Thanks much Lifetime Networks! Shanz also brought to my attention another DJ that’s making a huge noise in Jamaica. They are the duo behind, Chromatic. You certainly don’t want to skip over this feature. And in addition to shining the light on your artists, I have again shone the spotlight on myself in the feature “My Favorite Things.” December was a busy month for us as Mikelah, Victor and I attended various events, back to back, that we thought you would be interested in getting the scoop about e.g. the launch and listening party for I-Octane’s EP “Straight From the Heart” and “Strictly the Best,” a tribute to Joel Chin. It is my sincere hope that you continue to enjoy the content of the E-zine. Please ride the waves with us as we think up new ways to stimulate your mind and renew your spirit. Until next time, let me leave you with this, “Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

Stacey Bethel

Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@TripleTheFocus.com

Art & Content Directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note READY TO CONQUER IT ALL! Happy New Year! The New Year is always symbolic to starting fresh and feeling renewed, energized and ready to accomplish big things! Triple the Focus is up to the challenge of bringing readers behind the scenes with your favorite artists and highlighting the best of Caribbean lifestyle. We are excited for our first artist cover featuring the radiant Denyque. The young, vibrant singer is making moves on the dancehall scene and dedicated to staying true to her craft, carving out her own niche. Another talented female artist, Natalie Storm, has been brewing since her TNT (Timberlee, Natalie Storm and Tifa) days. She has since released her own mixtape and has a few tunes ready to release this year. Unity amongst artistes was in full effect as reggae and dancehallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best performers came out for Strictly the Best to pay tribute for Joel Chin and supported I-Octane at his EP Launch in New York City. I was totally glued to the TV and twitter when it came to Project Runway! Anya, creatively took the world by storm on Season 9, making #TEAMCaribbean proud. Our Casual Chic fashion spread has me wanting to make a trip to the Caribbean very soon! With plans of doing it bigger and better, we are focused on giving you more in 2012! Have ideas you would like in the magazine? If so, please email me at artdirector@triplethefocus.com.

Mikelah Rose

Your Art & Content Director

ArtDirector@TripleTheFocus.com

STACEY BETHEL Editor in Chief Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE Public Relations: MICHELLE GAYLE Photographers: CHAMPION HAMILTON | AJAMU MYRIE Graphic Designer: RUPTION DESIGN STUDIOS Beauty: RENEE BAPTISTE | KRYSTLE KAREE MAKE-UP Contributing Writers SHANTELL “SHANZ” HILL JODY-ANN WILLIAMS MIGHTY PENN SNOW McCULLEN

ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Triple the Focus is a Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle EMagazine published monthly. Released October 5, 2011, the goal of the E-zine is to provide a platform for industry insiders that will assist in connecting them with their fans on a more personal level. With behind the scenes photos, exclusive interviews, fashion and lifestyle tidbits, Triple the Focus is the brainchild of Triple 7 Entertainment LLC’s, a PR firm, CEO Stacey Bethel (nee Williams), who serves as Editor in Chief of the Magazine. Creative Director, Victor E. Lewis is the CEO of VicRae, Inc. whose clients include Actor, Leon, Third World Band, Jadine – Soca Diva and more. Art & Content Director, Mikelah Rose has worked for JAMROCK Magazine, VP Records, TEMPO Networks and has her own blog, Style & Vibes. For more information, email info@triplethefocus.com.

CONTACT

Email: Info@triplethefocus.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US) | 876-475-5841 (JA) 7

Casual Chic in the Caribbean

Romper: Dorothy Perkins Shoes: Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jeans Bracelet: Max and Chloe Earrings: Nordstrom Bag: Michael Kors 10

Looking forward to vacationing in the New Year? Keep it fashionably fuss free. Ladies, jewel tones are hot for the season compliments all skin tones. Wedge sandals make it easy for day or night activities. Bold accessories make it fun.

Dress: Top Shop Shoes: Seychelles Earrings: Miss Selfridge Bracelets: Top Shop Bag: Rebecca Minkoff

Turn up the debonaire swag mixing denim and khaki, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a classic combination thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s versitile enough for any guy to wear. Dress it up with funky oxfords or a pair of kicks. A sporty watch or straw fedora keep it casual.

Blazer: PS Paul Smith Jeans: Nudie Jeans Oxford Loafer: Nordstrom Hat: Goorin Bros.

Shirt: Hydrogen Shorts: Quick Silver Sneakers: Spring Court Watch: G-Shock 11

The Chromatic Experience

By Shantell “Shanz” Hill Photo Credit: RDS Studios They are the media savvy DJs you cannot visit Jamaica, turn your radio on, or look at an event flyer and not hear or see this duo. When they aren’t jet setting across the Caribbean or the US, the dynamic duo of Creep (DJ) and Niko (MC) (“Chromatic...The Ultimate™) are sure to set your event ablaze just by the mere mention of their names. The term Chromatic derives from the Greek word Chroma, meaning color. The chromatic scale is a musical scale with twelve pitches, each a semitone apart. Due to a different tuning technique, the twelve semitones in this scale have two slightly different sizes. Thus, the scale is not perfectly symmetric (Wikipedia). This also is the perfect definition of the internationally acclaimed duo. The two are different both visibly as well as in persona. It is this uncanny and undefined difference that has allowed their partnership to blossom. The journey begun in High School a few years ago when Creep started out using Gold Wave and Acid programs to produce mixes that eventually became high demand mixtapes. Creep confessed that while making the mixtapes was a hobby originally, the effect it had led him to a more serious progression. He researched a name for him and his crew by searching the dictionary, picked out a few names he liked, had a focus group and then narrowed it down to Chromatic. Creep who is often the most vocal and expressive of the two expressed that what makes the partnership work is the mutual understanding of goals and aspi-

ration. Their belief “every day is a lesson and no man is perfect, so when differences of opinions arise and mistakes are made, communication and understanding folded with respect can resolve any issue.” Nominated and awarded Sound of the Year by Jamaica’ esteemed, Youth View Awards in 2009, Chromatic has been blazing a fiery trail of excellence. With a prior release of the international acclaimed mixtape CRIME SCENE, as well a 2010 Mixtape of fast rising artist, Popcorn, they have successfully managed to create a large and loyal fan base in Jamaica. Their career took them from making mixtapes for school buses in Portmore and Kingston, to playing at premier events such as Fully Loaded, Daydreams, Dream Weekend, ATI, W and cities, and travel that has included Cayman Islands, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto, Miami, Atlanta, New Jersey, Washington, Baltimore and the entire fourteen parishes of Jamaica. Chromatic is looking forward to the New Year with the release of two projects which includes a hot new mixtape. CHROMATIC CONNECTION Twitter. com/creepchromatic Facebook: Creep Chromatic or Chromatic World-Wyde NTertainment. Management/Bookings: Shantell Shanz Hill of DatzMyDJ at 876-417-7530 | 876-5057182 | E-mail datzmydjent@

gmail.com. 13

SHE'S A PERFECT TEN!

Get Hooked On

DENYQUE By Stacey Bethel Photo Credit: Ann-Loy Morgan

er dainty 5’7” frame is not at all intimidating. Graceful almost modelesque but far from stuffy or standoffish, her warmth is welcoming. A true embodiment of everything girly, fun and carefree, she dubs herself a “supergirl” and why not? Just listen to her singles “Summer Love,” “Fly Me Around The Moon,” “Hooked on Me,” “What You Like,” “Driving Me Insane,” and you would assume that reggae songstress, Denyque is a love sick teenager. But quite the contrary - she is a beautiful young woman who is comfortable in her own skin. One does not deliver lyrics about love and heartbreak the way she does without having experienced it. The grown up emotions Denyque writes about makes it easy for her fans to relate to her. Fresh on the scene, she recorded her first single “Can’t Breathe” in 2009, Denyque has a clear vision of things that she wants to accomplish. And don’t label her as a “dancehall,” “reggae” or “pop” artist. She stands firm on her views of being placed in a box. “I don’t want anyone to label me as a ‘dancehall’ act or a ‘pop’ act. I am an artist and a creative one at that. I record fun, feel-good music.” And that is something she has managed to do since her arrival on the scene. In 2010 her single “Summer Love” on the Pleasure Riddim, produced by Cash Flow Records, invaded charts locally and abroad. As a result of the success of the single, Denyque shot the video for “Summer Love”, which happened to be her first video. And with over 222,855 views on YouTube, it is clear she has a loyal fan base. Before long, Denyque was reaping the rewards of her hard work when in 2011 she won her first Excellence In Music (EME) Award for Best New Artiste 2010. Later that year she flew to Africa where she performed for over 4000 fans in Kenya – an experience she cited as “amazing.”

“I see myself accomplishing all my musical goals. Global Musical Domination.”

This larger than life songstress is poised and positioned to achieve all that she sets her sights on – if she has anything to say about it. And she has tons to say. Just listen and we are sure you will get hooked on Denyque. Is there a reggae artist that you consider a mentor? Alaine. Why do you consider Alaine your mentor? She’s an incredible musician and one of the most humble persons I have ever met. What sets you apart from other female reggae artists? What sets me apart is the fact that I am a nonconformist. I believe in following my own yellow brick road and creating my own Oz. As a female in a male-dominated industry, how do you ensure that you are respect among your male counterparts? I definitely retained a level of professionalism that I believe is necessary. I believe that respect is earned and so I behave in a manner befitting of it. What are some of the obstacles you have faced in the business? I honestly don’t remember or focus on the obstacles. So whenever they reveal themselves, I kind of just get over them right away. 16

Describe your music and sound. I would describe my music & sound as being Pop & R&B-inspired. Do you write your own music? Most times I do. Even if I don’t write a song completely, I do have solid input in the finished product. Where do you draw inspiration? For me, inspiration comes in so many different forms. I’m naturally artistic so I draw inspiration from even the simplest things. How much of your music is fiction and how much is real? Honestly, most of my music is real. I like to write about real feelings and genuine emotions even those that are not my own. What do you do when not working? When not working, I sleep a lot (lol) and I spend a lot of time with my loved ones. Because without them I wouldn’t have the courage to accomplish the things I have so far and the things to come. Being a public figure, how do you keep your personal life private? Everybody that truly knows me knows that I’m a very mysterious and nomadic person. I believe in keeping my professional life professional and my personal life personal and I guess it’s natural for me to just always be in that frame of mind. I don’t have a specific sets of laws for doing so. Lol.

How do you maintain balance? I really have no idea, lol. I just stay true to myself. What are some of your hobbies? Let’s see, I am a movie fanatic, I like to read, sleep is a definite, playing Kalooki and conversations with friends. What makes you who you are? A whole heap a tings! Haha. Someone once told me that I remind them of photoshop because I’m clad with so many layers. I believe that my own personality, my family, the great friends I have, the fact that I’m open-minded and always willing to learn, very grounded, amongst other great factors, aid in making me the person I am and have the potential to be. What is your personal style? Comfy, sexy but modest, classy, edgy and sporty. Do you have a favorite designer? No I don’t. I love fashion & I love clothes. How does Denyque on stage differ from Denyque the everyday person? Denyque on stage is very made-up, very edgy/sassy and bold. While Denyque the everyday person is totally laid back and prefers comfier clothes. I’d wear my PJs everywhere if I could. :) Do you consider yourself a role model? I do consider myself a role model but I also accept that I am human and that overall is the more important factor. Where do you see your career in 5 years? I see myself accomplishing all my musical goals. Global Musical Domination [cues superhero theme music]. What are you currently working on? Currently I am focusing on myself, developing my craft and my image, and I am also in studio with Stephen McGregor, Jam 2, Jus Eazy Productions and more. My cape is always blowing in the wind. Supergirl. Facebook.com/Denyque Twitter.com/Denyque Youtube.com/ DenyqueMusic

THE PERFECT STORM IS BREWING! HOLD ON AND TAKE COVER.

How would you describe your sound/music? I’ve always defined my sound and style as “Electrofied Garrison Dancehall” because my musical taste is so varied Is Natalie Storm dancehall’s replica of “Lady Saw?” and eclectic, that it’s so hard to just say any one thing Does her raunchy lyrics, quick wit and stage presence about it. I’m a little bit of everything and a lot of all things. qualify her as the next queen of dancehall? Whatever your thoughts, it is quite clear that this multi-talent- What are some of the challenges you face being a ed artist, producer and songwriter who believes that female artist in the music industry? When I was the universe is hers to conquer, is well on her way. just starting out in this business my only challenge was By Jody-Ann Williams

Photo Credit: Martei Korley & Roli Brown

Born Natalie Cole in rural Jamaica, she grew up with musical influences such as Madonna, Grace Jones, Peaches, Michael Jackson and dancehall female artists Patra and Lady Saw. From those influences, she has become a force to be reckoned with. With versatility being one of her most commendable qualities, Natalie delivers the diversity of tracks ranging from hardcore passa passa dancehall to global dance music like no other. She leaves her mark in every aspect of the entertainment industry and with that said the “Perfect Storm” is about to pass through! Here in her own words, she talks about sex, or lack thereof, shopping, current projects and more.

my naiveté and ignorance to the cutthroat industry of music. I learned the hard way to overcome that with the help of Prodigal Entertainment and a few close friends. Now that I’m managing myself, the only real challenge I face is overcoming the traps of standing in my own way. I’m learning a quick 101 in the art of multitasking and remaining objective when the subject at hand is me. Not an easy job when you’re a perfectionist! Share some of the most memorable moments of your career thus far? Well, everybody in entertainment all say hearing their song for the first time on radio is an indescribable feeling and this is so true! That, as well as going on tour with Enur in 2008, having my video for “Look Pon Me” premiere on MTV UK and MTV Base, producing my first Riddim (Cheez Trix Riddim) and working with Ward 21, Max Glazer, Prodigal Ent and Tifa, have been some of my most cherished and absolutely priceless moments in my career to date.

Who is Natalie Storm? Natalie Storm is kick ass, at times extremely naughty, a simple girl from rural Jamaica. I’m as rude as my inner self will allow me to be and as sweet as I allow you to think. I’m into every kind of music there is and like to experiment with genres in ground breaking and boundary defying ways. If you had to choose one artist to collaborate with, who would it be and why? Wow! This is hard because

I respect so many artistes’ work. If I had to choose only one to work with it would definitely be someone dead, like Elvis or Bob Marley but that’s a little impossible... Lol! I’d love to work with Grace Jones, Madonna or Prince. They’d have cool stories to tell which would make for a great dancehall spin by me.

who have stamina and endurance and a good sense of self. Also, learn all you can about the business and never leave your career in the hands of other people. Facebook.com/nataliestorm Twitter.com/nataliestorm Myspace.com/nataliestorm

Do you have any favourite tracks that you’ve recorded? I love everything from my Federation Sound 2010 mixtape, “Songs 2 F*@k & Fight 2.” I also have a song I’m releasing in February, on my own production label (Maxine Music Production) called “Young Love,” that I’m IN LOVE WITH! It’s a one drop and I’m very proud of it. What projects are you currently working on? I’m currently promoting my new video, “HOTTA,” and a few international releases in Europe. I just wrapped a project for Reebok and working on some really weird, but totally banging stuff with Ward 21. What’s your favorite thing to do when not working? Well, I’d like to have sex when I’m not working because I don’t get to do that often but that’s just wishful thinking... Haha! Don’t mind me, I’m just kidding. When I’m not working, I like to chill at the beach. I love solitude; guess it’s the hermit in me. I love to just lock myself away in my room and write new articles for my online sex column (which is the only thing I ever get to do sexually nowadays, lol!), or watch classic movies...yup, I’m pretty boring! If you could go on an all-expense paid shopping spree, what are some of the items you would purchase? Hmmm, I hate shopping! I know most girls love that but I hate it. It’s just too tedious and time consuming walking from store to store. If I could go on an all expense shopping spree though, I’d probably get food! I love my belly (wink) and makeup. I’m pretty simple when it comes to everything else. How does your stage persona differ from that of your everyday persona? Contrary to popular belief, I’m quite docile and reserved but absolutely no one ever believes that. I have a sort of Jekyll and Hyde personality, not to the extremity of a psychotic but somewhere along the lines of a very eccentric introvert, if there is such a thing. The Natalie on TV, in videos, and on stage, is a little more tell it like it is than I’d ever be one on one and that helps me to stay grounded. What advice do you have for upcoming female artists trying to make it in the business? To all the newcomers, just do you and be the best you that you can be. Don’t watch how fast others progress or what they do to get to where they are because the race is not for the swift, it’s for people

When I was just starting out

in this business my only challenge was my naiveté and ignorance to the cutthroat industry of music. 18

STRICTLY THE BEST: A TRIBUTE TO JOEL CHIN

Gyptian By Mikelah Rose Photo Credit: Ajamu Myrie DJ Norie of New York City’s Power 105 and VP Records put together an exclusive line-up of artists for the Strictly the Best Concert at B.B. Kings in Time Square on Wednesday, December 14, 2011. Laza Morgan, Wayne Marshall, Demarco, Gyptian, Shaggy, Sean Paul and Mr. Vegas gave reggae music fans a great show while paying tribute to the late, Joel Chin. If you’ve owned a VP released album over the last 15 years and open the album credits and you’ll find Joel Chin’s name on it. Not only the grandson of VP Records owners Vincent and Patricia Chin, Joel Chin was the Director of A&R for the record label and an astounding producer and song writer noted for his immense catalog among the likes of Sean Paul, Etana, T.O.K, Wayne Wonder, Morgan Heritage and many more. A behind the scenes guy with an incredible work ethic, Joel had recently relocated to Jamaica to be closer to the artists and to continue developing acts locally when he was brutally gunned down outside of his home in Stony Hill, St. Andrew, Jamaica in August 2011. Jamaican Police are still investigating the murder. On December 14th a variety of Dancehall and Reggae artists, some of whom worked with Joel Chin at some point in their careers, paid tribute to the producer in an intimate concert. Joel Chin was highly involved in the Strictly the Best compilation series over the years and it was only fitting the best came out to perform and pay tribute in his honor. Among those who attended but did not perform were Rohan Marley, Actor Leon, Jabba of Hot 97 Gary 20

Shaggy & Rayvon

Nesta Pine, and WBLS’ Dahved Levy. The tribute was complete with a video montage of a recent studio session that Joel had with Tarrus Riley and Dean Fraser. It gave a sneak peak into the producer’s work and personality that many adored. The artists took to the stage with nothing but highly praised accolades of the producer, each of them giving their own salute to Joel Chin. Laza Morgan got the crowd going with a few new songs before performing his hit “One by One.” Wayne Marshall breezed through a collection of his own hits “Overcome,” “Good ol Wife” and “Swaggin.” Reggae crooner Gyptian gave a solid performance of a few of his mega hits “Serious Times,” “Nah Let Go,” “Beautiful Lady” and “Hold Yuh;” he also brought on stage Bardadian pop singer Shontelle who sang her Billboard hit “Impossible” as well as a few hit songs she co-wrote for Alison Hinds, “Roll It” and Rihanna, “Man Down”. Shaggy and friends Rayvon and Red Fox stole the hearts of the ladies with “It Wasn’t Me,” “Boombastic,” and “Angel.” Sean Paul dedicated “Never Gonna Be The Same” to Joel before blazing the fans with “We Be Burnin’,” “Temperature” and new hits, “She Doesn’t Mind” and “Got 2 Luv U.” Demarco showed the audience that the big guys can dance and dagger before performing “Fallen Soldiers” and “I Love My Life.” Mr. Vegas closed the show and gave the audience a second wind as he performed his catalog of hits like “Nuh Friend From Dem,” “Tek Weh Yuhself” and many more. The sense of unity amongst the artists who took the stage was refreshing, as each artist supported each other and remembered Joel Chin; closing out 2011 on a good note with Strictly the Best, honoring one of the best in the business.

Wayne Marshall

Sean Paul

Shontelle

Future Fambo Laza Morgan

Mr. Vegas 21

ANYA,

FROM ROGUE TO RUNWAY By Mikelah Rose Photo Credit: Lifetime/Barbara Nikte Anya Ayoung Chee or @AnyaDeRogue as she is known by her twitter followers is the winner of Project Runway Season 9 and is slated to become one of the most coveted designers hailing from the Caribbean. Nurtured under the wing of her mentor and fellow “Trini” designer, Meiling, her naturally keen aesthetic for design is what sets her apart in castings and throughout the season. Hailing from the twin isle of Trinidad and Tobago, Anya is a graduate of Parsons School of Design and Central St. Martins School of Art and Design. She spent several years working as a designer in New York City until 2007 when she returned home after her eighteen-year old brother, Pilar, died in a car accident. Moving back to Trinidad proved to be a great move for Anya as she worked as a graphic designer and was selected to represent her country at the Miss Universe pageant. Although she was poised and well equipped to become a pageant queen, the rogue in Anya has always had an affinity for design. Solidifying her confidence as a designer, she designed her own pageant garments and created a label, PILAR in May 2009 and lingerie line, Anya de Rogue in 2010, which eventually lead her to Project Runway. Anya’s Urban-Island flair, as described by Project Runway judge Michael Kors, is spot on with her design style. What made her a standout contestant was that she didn’t let obstacles like only having four months of sewing skills or losing her money on a fabric buying trip, rattle her creativity. Her tenacious personality and wearable designs made her a household name. Anya was not only one of the judges’ favorites on the show - she also won the heart of viewers. Caribbeans 23

from the region and the Diaspora tuned in weekly and tweeted their thoughts simultaneously during the show; rooting for her win from the beginning. Their unwavering support has continued as she won the competition and has recently completed her Spring 2012 collection and debuted her Trinidad Carnival Collection for Tribe, which will debut in Trinidad 2012. Quoted as saying “as a Caribbean designer, I am committed to designing clothes with an irresistible easy, sexy vibe” she’s is definitely a designer to watch as she continues to rise to the occasion, representing Caribbean designers internationally without forgetting her roots. For more information, visit www.anyaayoungchee.com.

Anya’s Urban-Island flair, as described by Project Runway judge Michael Kors, is spot on with her design style.

26 26

I-OCTANE EP LAUNCH IN NEW YORK CITY by Stacey Bethel Photo Credit: Uniiqe Impact Productions

I-Octane’s performance on Monday, December 12, 2011 before a packed house at DROM in New York City was one of his most heartfelt performances to date. The singer, who performed before a crowd of his peers, media outlets and industry insiders proved to be a nerve racking feat. But like a true champion, he took the stage and performed with the sheer confidence that he has become known for and came out on top. The long awaited release of I-Octane’s debut EP “Straight From the Heart,” which has already received a ‘thumbs up’ by John Carmanica who featured single “Crime A Rise” in the New York Times, gave way to the media launch hosted by DROM NYC, Federation Sound and Destine Media. Produced by A list producers Stephen “The Genius” McGregor, Kimani “DJ Frass” Palmer, Garry G of Uniiqe Impact Productions, Dev Kutta of Livity Movements, Jordan McClure and David “Hizzle Hayle of Chimney Records, the EP, from his label, Conquer the Globe, was released on iTunes and Amazon Tuesday, December 6, 2011. Destine Media remarks, “As Executive Producer, I must say I have received great feedback in regards to the EP and the layout of each track. Fans of I-Octane emailed saying how refreshing it is to hear six solid yet diverse tracks accompany such a great artist. We are pleased with the feedback and exceptional support we have received.” The launch, which was by invitation only, was attended by Actor Leon, reggae artists Gyptian, Fambo, Hyah Slice, Lisa Hype, and Martina. Also in attendance were Linkup radio’s CEO, David “Squeeze” Annakie, Irie Jam’s DJ Roy and Dubbmaster Chris, Hot 97’s Jabba, 93.7’s Nikki Z, DJ Kue of Ranch Entertainment, Pat Meschino of Billboard Magazine and a host of others. Backed by Derrick Barnett and Statement Band, IOctane performed singles from his EP before a live audience for the first time. To warm up the crowd,

Octane opened with fan favorites “No Love Inna Dem,” “My Life,” “Lose A Friend,” “Mama You Alone,” “No More Black,” “Low Mi,” “Jah Jah Love Me (Accapella)” and “One Ting Mi Know Say.” The high energy set followed with singles from the EP such as “Burn Dem Bridge,” “Example For the Poor,” “My Problems Gone” and “Falling.” To connect with fans, I-Octane introduced each single and delivered the positive message of his lyrics with fortitude. The honesty of his songs has resonated well with audiences and the EP continues on that same path. Owning the stage, the set was not only filled with rhyme and reason, he engaged the band and those under the sound of his voice in conversation. Of the launch, I-Octane remarks “It was a great pleasure to come back to New York and perform in front of the radio personnel, media houses and DJs who support and help build my career. Most of all to perform with Derrick Barnett and Statement band for the first time was a great experience.” “Straight From the Heart” is now available on iTunes and Amazon. Select songs from the EP can be heard on I-Octane’s website at www.ioctanemusic. com. For media inquiries, please contact Triple 7 Entertainment at 201-981-6960 or media@triple7entllc.com. For other inquiries, please contact Destine Media at 347-497-8874 or info@destinemediagroup.com. 29

$24.95 (CAN $27.95)

ASHAMED TO DIE

Silence, Denial, and the AIDS Epidemic in the South

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argely because the United States has failed to adequately address the threat of HIV and AIDS in Southern communities, the regional and cultural shame associated with AIDS persistsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and coupled with the lack of education, funding and infectious disease clinics in the South, the stigma prevents victims from seeking immediate medical assistance. Ashamed to Die: Silence, Denial, and the AIDS Epidemic in the South (Lawrence Hill Books, an imprint of Chicago Review Press, November 2011) by Andrew J. Skerritt reveals the hard truths and ongoing complexities of battling the disease in America, despite the spread of AIDS awareness and medical breakthroughs of the past 30 years. Focusing on the African American Pegram family in Clover, South Carolina, Skerritt documents how one womanâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Tricia Ann, a sister, aunt, wife, mother and 30

VEN AS the tragic African AIDS epidemic fills the headlines, the United States has failed to address the HIV/AIDS crisis in the South, where people are dying because shame that Through the of a powerful story leads to silence. In Ashamed to Die, author ofAndrew one African American comJ. Skerritt focuses on a small town munity ravaged by in South Carolina, a microcosm of this HIV/AIDS, national tragedy, to and examines the Ashamed Die how reveals Ameritenacious disease ravaged the black caâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s struggle to combat the discommunity. The heartbreak of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the rural failureease comes alive through Carolyn, a wild South child whose rebellion coincided with the advent of AIDS; Girard, a dreadlocked *World AIDS Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;December 1â&#x20AC;&#x201D; bank executive; Nita, a young woman marks 30th anniversary of the searching the for love; and others whose moving stories AIDS reveal hardepidemic* truths about the consequences of our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neglect. Skerritt contends that taboos about â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alove,powerful debutâ&#x20AC;ŚThe author race, and sexualityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;combined with makes strongwhite case that the shame Southern a conservatism, privilege, black oppressionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;continue to create is and not with the dying but with those an unacceptable death toll and that, who turn away from the reality of despite AIDS awareness programs and this â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Kirkus Reviews medicalepidemic.â&#x20AC;? breakthroughs, the epidemic is not lessening in the Deep South. This truepoignant story shows how persons â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both and beautiful, of faith, enduring love, and limitless even as the subject is tragic. It is forgiveness can inspire others. Not only a amust-read for anyone call to action and awareness, Ashamed to concerned Die is also a guide for poor communities with HIV/AIDS or social justice.â&#x20AC;? facing a public health threat burdened with -Paul Kawata, Executive Director, conflicting moral and social consequences.

National Minority AIDS Council

pastorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;cares for Carolyn, her drug-addicted and AIDS-infected sister, and Carolynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s young son. Relying on her faith, Tricia Ann enters into a fight to save others dying of AIDS in her rural Southern neighborhood, but often ends up presiding over funerals insteadâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;funerals where the cause of death is rarely admitted. Skerritt traces the impoverished familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and depicts how taboos about love, race and sexualityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; combined with Southern conservatism, white privilege and black oppressionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;continue to create an unacceptable death toll into the 21st century. As Skerritt explores crucial realities of a story that is all too common in the rural Southâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;poverty, lack of education, the politics of AIDS funding, the need for support from churches and non-profit organizations

and the urban-vs.-rural/north-vs.-south tensions that threaten to derail the fight to stop the spread of this illness—he also delves into the South’s history of sexually transmitted diseases, including the region’s cyclical epidemics of syphilis, and traces individuals’ difficulties in acquiring treatment. Ashamed to Die offers hope as well, featuring anecdotes, insights and heroism of those who have worked to promote AIDS awareness and treatment in the South: Dr. Michael Watson, who instituted one of the first public STD screening programs in South Carolina; Chris Blanton, who served as York County AIDS ombudsman; Linda Ashley, a health department social worker who went on to be founder and director of the Christopher Clinic, one of the first privately run, non-profit, full-service HIV and AIDS care providers in South Carolina; and Dr. Phil Lackey and Dr. Craig Charles, who dedicated their lives to studying infectious diseases and worked with rural AIDS patients. The Pegram family’s chronicle of fighting for the survival of relatives and neighbors highlights the obstacles African Americans in the South face in the battle against AIDS. With Ashamed to Die, Andrew Skerritt offers a powerful call to action for AIDS education, awareness, acceptance and equality on a local and governmental level as we continue

to work toward a cure. Andrew J. Skerritt is a longtime journalist who has contributed to publications all over the country, including the St. Petersburg Times, Asbury Park Press, Journal (NY) News, Charlotte NC Observer, Rock Hill Herald, Rochester Democrat, Tallahassee Democrat and theRoot.com. A native of London, England, he grew up on the Caribbean island of Montserrat. He holds a bachelor’s in journalism from Howard University and a master of liberal arts from Winthrop University. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and National Association of Caribbean-American Journalists. He teaches journalism at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida. BOOK DETAILS Title: Ashamed to Die: Silence, Denial, and the AIDS Epidemic in the South Author: Andrew J. Skerritt Publisher: Lawrence Hill Books, an imprint of Chicago Review Press, Distributed by Independent Publishers Group Publication: November 2011, $24.95 (CAN $27.95), Cloth, ISBN: 9781569768143 Health/Social Science, 320 pages, 6 x 9.

Available at bookstores everywhere and through Independent Publishers Group, 814 N. Franklin St., Chicago, IL 60610. Tollfree number for orders only: 1-800-888-4741. Visit us online at www.ipgbook.com.

Contact: Meaghan Miller Publicity Associate Independent Publishers Group (312) 337-0747 ext. 212 mmiller@ipgbook.com

Creative Director’s Note 2012 CREATIVE FOCUS American Economist and Professor at Harvard Business School, Theodore Levitt said, “Creativity is thinking up new things. Innovation is doing new things.” I think he might have foreseen the creation and vision of Triple The Focus. The many personal and business highlights of 2011 continue to encourage and fuel Triple The Focus’s vision. We are excited as we set forth on our 2012 quest, bringing unique lifestyle stories, exclusive features on musical, fashion and industry trendsetters. January’s issue sets the tone making winter pleasurable with features on artists Denyque and Natalie Storm and exploring fashion with Anya Ayoung-Chee, Season 9 winner of “Project Runway.” Also, enlightening stories on our client’s performances and tour schedules will support stimulating images designed to keep subscribers engaged. Third World Band moves into their 39th year and will join the patriotic celebration of Jamaica’s 50th Independence celebration with a series of events globally. Triple The Focus will bring you exclusive coverage as the band journey from country to country. Additionally the premiere of Caribbean Dreamers, the original documentary series, adds to the monthly insight of our artist and clients. As our team journey with the characters we’ll bring you rare content, which depicts the unscripted life of the artists on the road. Triple The Focus is committed to creating new platforms for engaging, entertaining and keeping our loyal readers satisfied. We are looking forward to your continued support and feedback. Please continue to write and share your thoughts with me at creativedirector@triplethefocus. com. Until next month “T-Focus and think Creative.”

Vic Rae

Your Creative Director creativedirector@triplethefocus.com