GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine and TV Issue 24

GrinderZZ Nov/Dec 2022 Issue 24

24/7

Magazine & TV

EXCLUSIVE G

An exclusive GrinderZZ interview with Michael Peek Sr., as he talks about his imprisonment for a crime that he didn’t commit.

Inside This Issue: Music Entertainment Artists Interviews

GRINDERZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV The information contained in this magazine is for educational, entertainment and general informational purposes only. This information is provided by GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV and other sources.

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Reproduction is prohibited. Your views and opinions may differ from the content; therefore, you may leave a comment at angie_christine@aol.com Editor and Chief, Author Angie Christine

A Letter From The Editor Hello everyone! Welcome to my world....the world of GrinderZZ. My name is Angie Christine, C.E.O of GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV. I am a mother, an author, a writer for Fuzionz Magazine/TV, actress and soon to be talk show host of my very own show titled "The Ultimate Surprise Show". When it comes to being a hard worker, I always strive to come out on top.

I decided to create this magazine to applaud and to recognize all of the Grinders across the world who are out there doing their thing. These people come from various backgrounds, work trades, even different religions, but the one thing that makes them all the same is that they are hard workers. It takes a special person to become one. You have to eat, drink, and sleep your skills, your talents, and become that head honcho. I know you all will be very pleased at reading the different interviews and articles inside this special magazine. I would also love your feedback. If you would love to drop me a message, please send all inquiries to Angie_Christine@aol.com. Take care and keep grinding! (If you dream it, make it happen) Editor and Chief Angie Christine Assistant Editor Shenoba Kinsey

AnnoUnCEmEnt:

Congratulations on upcoming nuptials. Musician, Melvin Edmonds Jr. will be tying the knot with my daughter, Content Creator, Briana Zalamar. Melvin is the son of the late singer, Melvin Edmonds Sr. (After 7) and the nephew of, music producer, Kenneth Babyface Edmonds.

November 11th can't get here any faster! We all wish them the very best.

Purchase Your GrinderZZ T-shirt today.

https://angiechristine74.wixsite.com/gri nderzz/online-store

An Exclusive Interview With

Michael Peek Sr.

You heard it here first ladies and gentlemen! I've added an exclusive interview with my 1st cousin, Michael Peek, aka Mikey. It was to my surprise that I found out two years ago, by my uncle, that country singer, Kane Brown, is my cousin. Later, I tried to contact someone to get as close as I could to my family. Finally, my dreams came true, this past winter.

Michael's mother and Kane's grandmother, Mary Catherine Peek, is the older sister of my mother, which makes her, my aunt. They were years apart, but I'm so overjoyed to have made contact with them all. To the world, Kane Brown's father doesn't exist, but he actually does exist. For the past twenty-six years, Michael has been incarcerated in a Tennessee prison for crimes he didn't committee. Rape and burglary are horrible crimes. Michael's DNA, nor did his description EVEN MATCH with whom they were looking for. So, why is he still locked up? Since I’ve located my cousin, this past March, I've been doing everything in my power to get him back into the courts, to show and to prove his innocence. Ladies and gentlemen.......here is my interview with my Michael:

females and the white guys didn't like that at all.

They had it in for me, because I was taking all the white chicks at the high school.

GrinderZZ: Tell us about your children.

Michael: Well, I have three boys and two girls.

Kane is the youngest. They all have different mothers.

GrinderZZ: We spoke before the interview and you explained to me that you were set up, because of your love for dating white women. Do you still remember the day they came to get you?

Michael: Yes I do and it still hurts. I was sitting in the car with my homey, when I was approached by the officers. The entire thing didn't make sense, at all. It was in the news and it really hurt my family.

GrinderZZ: Hey Mikey! I am so overwhelmed right now, cuz. Thank you for taking this time to do this interview with us, over the phone. For those who don't know about you, please tell our audience a little something about yourself.

Michael: Hey everybody. First I want to say, I love you so much, cousin, for getting my story out there. Twenty-six years is a very long time.

Thank you for believing in my Innocence.

Well, my name is Michael Anderson Peek. I'm 58 years old and I'm from Chattanooga, Tennessee. I was raised by strong parents. I have five children, whom I love and adore and grandchildren who I wish I could hold in my arms and tell them granddad loves you.

GrinderZZ: Can you take us back to how this all happened to you?

Michael: Well, at one point, my family and I were living in Long Island, New York, then my parents decided to move the family back down south. I was the jock on the football team, so I had all of the girls running behind me and I enjoyed it, a lot. I went to a predominantly white school, so because of that, I dated a lot of white

GrinderZZ: You said that nothing matched up and they still locked you up?

Michael: Yes, they said the description of the guy who did the rape and burglary was a black male, standing at 5'4. He, also, was a stubby man with a potbelly and hairy knuckles. I stand at 6 ft 5 and I weigh 300 pounds and all muscle. I have no fat at all on my body. The DNA test excluded me and I was still thrown behind bars! Twenty-six years is a long time and I have written documents to show that I'm an innocent man. They had appointed one lawyer, who was blind. The other lawyer, I felt, just ran off with my money, because he didn't help at all.

GrinderZZ: How did you feel when you found out about your baby son, Kane Brown, being one of countries hottest singers?

Michael: Well, as a parent, I was so excited and happy for Kane. And, just to let the world know, I didn't abandon my son. The system took me away from him, my wife, my other children and my grandchildren. To be locked up for something you didn't do hurts like hell! Kane used to come see me and, also, would call me from time to time, but his people (managers, etc.) got in his ears and told

him to stay far away from me. To this very day, that really broke my heart, because I love him dearly. I feel Kane should've taken up for me, because I’m his father. I did NOTHING WRONG! GrinderZZ: Twenty-six years is a long time, cuz, and I know for a fact, if it was me, I'd be going crazy!

How have you been holding up?

Michael: I have one answer for that..........GOD ALMIGHTY! If it wasn't for my faith in the Lord, I don't know how I would've made it this far.

GrinderZZ: If you could say one thing to Kane right now, what would it be?

Michael: I'd let him know that I love him, so much, and I would love for us to get reacquainted with each other, again. Life is too short and all I want is to have a great relationship with him, like I do with the other kids.

“If it wasn't for my faith in the Lord, I don't know how I would've made it this far. ”

GrinderZZ: How can people reach out to you, if they want to try and help?

Michael: People can write to me at, Michael Peek, TDOC #150754, Bledsoe County Correctional Complex, 1045 Horsehead Rd., Pikeville, TN 37367.

GrinderZZ: Any last words/request?

Michael: Yes indeed! Cuz, I first got to thank you for this opportunity to tell my story and hope that it reaches out to the right people. I, also, want to thank China Williams for having me on her podcast show, The Real, and thank you to Shenoba Kinsey, C.E.O of Fuzionz Magazine and TV, for being in my interview and putting my story in her magazine, as well. I, also, want to thank my wife, Angela, for holding the family together, alongside a big thank you to all of the mothers, of my grown children, my grandchildren and my beautiful mother, Ms. Mary Catherine Peek. Also, a big shout out to my baby cousin, Authoress Demetria Alexis Crandell, for sending me these beautiful pictures that I have taped up, on my wall. You're truly an amazing artist. With you on my side, cuz, I know, for a fact, that I'll be a free man. soon.

Thank you for everything you've done. God Bless!

One love!

GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV presents our Flava winner, musician, Melvin Edmonds Jr. Melvin has been in the industry for over 20 years, as he's following in the footsteps of his father, the late R&B singer, from the group After 7, Melvin Edmonds Sr. Melvin’s company, War Lab Music Group, LLC is taking off by storm, as he runs the company alongside his, soon to be wife, Content Creator, Briana Zalamar.

Cheers to you Melvin.

Behind the Scene With

ComEdIAn China Doll

We, at GrinderZZ, had the pleasure of interviewing this beautiful soul, a couple of years back. So, we decided it was time to Rekindle that fire! Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you.......Ms. China!

GrinderZZ: Hey China! Welcome back to the GrinderZZ studio. For those who missed your last interview, please tell my audience a little about yourself.

China: Well I'm a little bit country and a little bit city slicker born in Philadelphia partially raised in North Carolina I can bring you that southern hospitality or I can bring you that street bottom side brickyard mentality. I'm one of five children being the middle child. I don't like pina colada, but I love getting cold in the rain. Ha, ha, ha! Seriously I love making people laugh it was a mechanism that I learned early in life when trying to draw attention away from my large cranium my head being what was considered obese which caused my family to give me the lovely nickname of fat mama and having a learning disability of dyslexia it was a rough and wild abusive childhood.

Learning that skill has supported me to have two seasons of BET comic view, for overseas tours and many stateside shows.

GrinderZZ: 2020 really hit us hard because of the, Corona virus outbreak. Were you and your company affected by the shutdown, and if so, how?

China: Being an entertainer my community was hit very hard due to the shutdown of venue and the social distancing people had to quickly reassess and come up with other ways in order to create revenue and keep practicing their craft. Luckily for me my online presence was already in effect through my weekly syndicatedinternet radio show. It also cause many of us to tap into our creative juices to create other internet content to draw people to our talents which caused me to create my hilariously funny TOOK-N-TOLD YA live stream platform with myself as Sis Tolduso and my co-host Kevin Hendricks aka Mr. George.

GrinderZZ: You have one of the best podcasts/talk show that's out right now. Out of all of you guest's you've had over the years on your radio show, name 3 that really stood out?

China: Oh my queen that's kind of difficult for me to do because there's been so many that have stuck with me and the majority of them weren't the celebrities per se but the entrepreneurs and activists doing things that truly impact the universe that we're all in. Then I have many celebrities that I've interviewed that were impactful. But I tell you what I have learned over the years and which has afforded me to be as you say one of the best podcasts is the fact that I know what to do and not to do and I know not to point out anyone so that no one is offended so I would say all of my interviews I have been packed with me equally that's my story and I'm sticking with it. But I'm also smart enough to know that this magazine owner happens to be married to an individual I've interviewed Mr. Darryl Brown the son of godfather of soul James Brown so I would have to say that that's my favorite.

GrinderZZ: You, also, starred in a couple of movies. Tell us about them. I have been blessed to have been selected to work in many projects plays and movies.

China: Once again I won't get into which was my favorite to act in and which role was my favorite I will just direct your readers to my website and to click on my bio for complete listing.

I will say that Dreadmelon Productions and Airuk Film & Photography have provided me with many roles in several projects.

GrinderZZ: I, also, would like to take the time out to thank you for joining myself and Shenoba Kinsey, from Fuzionz Magazine and TV, to conduct the interview with country singer, Kane Brown's father, Michael Anderson Peek. What was your outtake of the whole situation?

China: That situation is sadly one of many in the justice system. His situation is that from a horror movie and he has to truly be a mentally strong individual to have endured what he's gone through and still be mentally sound from the situation itself being falsely accused to the many years that he's had to sit under that stress alone and then having the isolation and solitary confinement and just knowing that people lied on you to cause you to be in that situation once again I say he has to be a strong mentally to endure and I hope that by shedding light on his situation it will allow him the freedom that he deserves.

GrinderZZ: Do you have any project's that's coming up that you can speak about?

China: I'm actually excited because I just signed on to be a brand ambassador for Lu Lae's Grill and Catering we will be broadcasting live TOOK-N-TOLD YA show from that location every Tuesday 5pm EST on Facebook. I'm on tour with a play by award-winning writer by Dwight Cummings called A Man Like Me, and a movie that I have a wonderful role in title Lift The Cure that will be released in the near future. And folks can always tune in for my week radio show "THE REAL IS REAL" Talk with China!

GrinderZZ: What advice can you give someone who wants to start a career in, show business?

China: Like any career, you should investigate what it is you’re getting into, but don't get caught up in what you find and think that you have to do it that way research it, to have knowledge about it, but do it your way. Don't let others tell you how to do what you feel always remember it's your craft that got you there that got you wanting to do it and no one can know how to express you but you. A person can write a script but it's still the actor that has to betray it and bring it to life. A person can read a book but it's the writer that has to make the words jump off the page. So just know what you're getting into and then do it your way.

GrinderZZ: Tell everyone how they can get in contact with you.

China: You can Google me make sure you Google China Doll comedy otherwise you may pull up a stripper or my website www.therealisreal.com GrinderZZ: Any last words/request?

China: In a world that's so full of hate please try to be kind and remember that everyone is going through something. A smile doesn't cost you anything and brings you good morphins of internal healing powers but that frown can cost you many things including your health for it creates morphines of decay. The face you present is all up to you!

Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us, in the GrinderZZ studio. Continue to be safe and don't be a stranger. God Bless!

Michael Chambers Interview GrinderZZ: Michael, thank you from the bottom of my heart for chatting it up with us here at GrinderZZ. Please let the audience know a little aboutyou?

Michael: I was raised in the South Bay of Los Angeles, California town called Wilmington and I am an African Creole American who had relatives from Louisiana, who spoke French and some who spoke Spanish.

Let me first start off by saying, I am a huge fan of this man. Because of him, I believed I could break dance on the ceiling, and float across the floor with a broom in my hand. The man I'm speaking so highly about it none other than Michael Boogaloo Shrimp Chambers. For the young people out there that's reading this, we called him Turbo back in his "Breakin" days. Michael was the other half of the famous break dancing, pop locking duo, Ozone and Turbo from the 80's movies, Breakin, and Breakin 2 Electric Boogaloo. To this day, Michael is still grinding, and we here at GrinderZZ 24/7 are delighted to have this interview with him. t

GrinderZZ: At what age did you start dancing?

Michael: I started dancing about 1978 when disco hit doing my best John Travolta AND IMITATING THE ADULTS WHO DANCED TO ALL THE POPULAR HIT SONGS ON THE 8-TRACK PLAYERS. GrinderZZ: I know being from the East Coast, we use to term, break dancing, and on the West Coast, you all use the term, pop locking. Could you explain the difference of the two dances?

Michael: The dance styles that were popular was growing up in my time, was popping or pop locking. This dance was a progression of the 70s slow robot dance and had faster more spasmic joint pops. Then up in Northern Cali, Frisco and Fillmore they had the style the

J. J. FADD Interview (cont.) became some well skilled dancer’s favorites and we had Masters of certain styles.

GrinderZZ: I bet in high schoolyou won all the talent shows. Were you the talk of the school, with your fancy moves?

Michael: Breakdancing did not come to Cali clubs until 1981 when a dancer Steven De Silva Sugar pop brought locking and serious b boying to all the hot club events. Most smart dancers learned THIS NEW STYLE THAT WAS ALL GROUND MOVES HEAD SPINS, TURTLES, WEBO UPROCK.So, when they would audition or battle, they had more styles to throw out at opponent or in an audition.

I like most kids tried to fit in at the time 1978-79 the TV show Roots was a huge hit but being black going to school with other races it was exhausting to hear Toby or Kunta,so I started dancing and showing off with my friends for fun and people did not see me as a trouble maker or bad person so now I became a cool guy not a color, but a dignified human being to other schoolmates, called the Boogaloo Shrimp.

GrinderZZ: You played a character name Turbo in the Breakin and Breakin 2 Electric Boogaloo movies.

What was that experience like?

Michael: Playing the character of Turbo was the ultimate form to

display all my hard work of practicing an underground art that would have probably stated that way. I knew each day of shooting I had a responsibility to do my best and hoped that it would atleast be respected by other dancers and other styles never dreamed it became a global phenomenon and part of the foundation of crossover Hip-Hip elements.I am so thankful to the internet, movie cable channels and actors, music artist who have paid tributes and

and homage to the films.

GrinderZZ: Your friend aka big brother, in the movie, was played by Adolfo Quinones, aka Ozone. Did you guys meet on the set, or did you both know each other from before?

Michael: Adolfo and I met through a mutual dancer friend, Bruno Falcon, from Long Beach, California who was in Michael Jackson’s Captain Eo, Smooth Criminal video and the Dangerous Tour. Also, he played Electro Rock in Breakin 1 and 2.We all got together and danced as friends, not under any contract. But because Adolfo was older, he took us under his wing and advised us all to get an agent and notto dance for free. Adolfo had learned from Toni Basil how to be a professional, so we all were groomed in how to present ourselves as artist for hire not for bragging rights and that led to us working on Lionel Ritchie’s All Night Long World tour with a very young super percussionist Sheila E and featured spots in his video. Chaka Khan’s I Feel For You written by artist PRINCE. GrinderZZ: My mom used to say, you were very light on your feet like Michael Jackson. Did anyone ever compare your style of dancing to his?

Michael: Lionel was a smart man and the film ELECTRIC BOOGALOO BREAKIN2 featured my dancing on the ceiling solo which was a small tribute to Fred Astaire’s royal wedding performance. We just came of a World tour and Lionel wrote a hit song about it. Also at the American music Awards 1984 Lionel actually tells everyone in the audience he was the one who taught Michael to keep the hype moment going and we all were honored to be ground zero at the making of We are the World which was filmed right after that award show so it was awesome to be part of music and media history and I am glad Mr. Jackson perfected his dance moves because he kept the art of popping alive even after the 80s and break dancing had it introductory start and now there is even mention of break dancing being in the Olympics so it is nice to reflect on the foundations of the pivotal moments that helped the dance art get to where it is now.

GrinderZZ: You appeared in the video, Dancing on the Ceiling with Lionel Richie, and also worked with the legendary Michael Jackson. What were those experiences like?

Michael: Just before the tour I had met Michael and he asked me and Bruno Falcon to come showcase our skill to Joe and the family at the Haven Hurst residence in Encino, California. After my showcase I was called to help Mr. Jackson with his solo moves for the upcoming Victory Tour and even though I was not credited on the concert tour book, my moves are clearly seen in his live solo performance of Billie Jean, when he performs a backslide circle floating moon walk. We practiced a few other times when his schedule permitted it and by 1990,which was our last session, during the making of Do The Bart Man for the Simpsons sing blues album, I noticed he went from a few moves to many in the art of freestyle popping and animation movements.

Some people have argued and given all credit to Jeffrey Daniels, but the truth is in the styles.

MICHAEL LEARNED FROM MANY PEOPLE AND EACH ARTIST CAN BE VISIBLY SEEN FROM BOB FOSSE,FRED ASTAIRE,MARCEL MARCEAU SHIELD AND YARNELL AND MYSELF IN MR. JACKSON’S DANCE PERFORMANCE. GrinderZZ: Are you currently working on any projects Michael: I have a few things I am working on, but my main focus is my faith in God, and trying to help out my loved ones and be a good example as a repentant sinner.

GrinderZZ: How can fans reach out to you?

Michael: Fans can help by sending casting people or serious promoter’s messages for job referrals. At this point I would like to host a fun TV show or do a college speaking tour and educate the dance music arts departments. For booking inquiries, they can send message to boogalooshrimp2001@yahoo.com GrinderZZ: Any last words/shout outs?

Michael: Big shout to Bruno Mars for his tweet, Black Eyed Peas, Taboo William, Leonardo Di Caprio for his moves in Wolf on Wall Street and all artist and musicians who grew up 80s and busted a few moves, radio stations that play dance music and event promoters, Macola Records, Thump Records, William Walker, the cast of Blackish, Mile Brown, Olivia, Travis, Maddy PEE and all my brothers and sisters who helped me through tough times .

I want to, again, take this time and thank you, Michael, for your time in conducting this interview. May God continue to bless you. Continue grinding and shining.

Hanging Out With Angel “Speed” Colon Angel AKA "Speed" Colon" is definitely a pioneer of the Hip Hop community.

I just love to, constantly, bring him back into the studio, because he always has something going on. Let's hear from this man of many talents.

ANGEL “SPEED” COLON

GrinderZZ: What's going on Speed?

Welcome back in the house. For those who don't know you, please tell my audience about yourself.

Angel: Thanks for Having me. My Name is Angel Speed Colon, Producer, Engineer, Dj. GrinderZZ: You're one of the greatest when it comes to making beats, producing, and the whole nine yards. At what age did you first get your taste at making beats?

Angel: I started as a DJ for a Group called the Dynamite Two; Ernie D, Henry G. The DJs were myself and Mixmaster Freddy Bee. We went to the studio, cut a record called Can’t Stop Till I Reach the

Interview with Angel (continued…)

Top. It played at NY Radio WBLS and Kiss FM. I started doing shows with Whodini, Run DMC, The Treacherous Three, Jimmy Spicer, Love Bug Starski.

The Group disbanded and Mixmaster Freddy Bee went on to form The Mighty Micmasters and do the recording at the main event. I joined a group called Sinister, in Flatbush Brooklyn and that was the start of My Early Production Bug. There was Kirth Da One Atkins, Hugh Finesse York, myself and June Saviofaire Lemon. We were the Production Team. I must have been 23 years old, at the time.

GrinderZZ: Tell us how you became producer on Whodini's album.

Angel: Sinister and I had a female artist by the name of Blossom, who Russell Simmons was interested in signing, as the first Female artist in Def Jam records. So, he booked studio time for a month or so, so we could work on her songs. Russell had Rush Artist Management, at the time, and Whodini was signed to Rush. Our manager, at the time, was Whodini’s Road Manager, Roy Cormier.

After a while, Russell lost interest in signing Blossom our artist, he was working with Nikky D and the LA posse, so

Nikky became the first female artist on Def Jam. Russell then heard some songs we had in pre-production. He heard the song Be Yourself. Our manager pitched the idea to Russell for us to produce the song for Whodini and the rest was history. It went top 10 on billboard. They performed it on Soul train and the Arsenal Hall show. It was a blessing. We did not produce the whole open Sesame LP, we produced Be Yourself and I’m Def. Larry Smith produced the rest.

GrinderZZ: I was surprised when you told me you had a chance to work with my late father n law, The Godfather

of Soul, James Brown. What happened with that deal?

Angel: Well, the other song we produced on the Open Sesame LP, for Whodini, was called I’m Def - it had a James Brown feel. So, at the time, Jive Records was planning the videos, for the songs.

Millie Jackson was available, because I believe she was on Jive Records, as well, at the time.

Jive, also, reached out to James Brown’s label to see if he would be available to do the video, with Whodini, for the song I’m Def. But, to my understanding he was away, promoting. Living in America, that would have been my opportunity to meet my idol, Mr. Hip Hop himself, James Brown. His songs were heavy influences in hip hop music.

GrinderZZ: The 2020 pandemic put a monkey wrench in a lot of people's business, and plan's. Where you affected in any way, work wise?

Angel: Actually, it affected me a little.

People were getting sick and dying and it was risky with the lock down, to have artists in close quarters, recording.

However, I was bored, out of my mind, and started taking a risk. I recorded Lega-c; a project called Emerald City, during the Pandemic. We both got COVID in the process and had to stop for a while. Then, I was tapped by Grandmaster Caz to do a project that was fairly big. It contained 50 rappers of the golden era. That took about a year to record all 50, because of COVID and the lock downs.

GrinderZZ: You and your artist, "Legacy" are really doing it up, big time. What's the name of the new album, and what made you guy's pick that name?

Angel: Well, me and Lega- C recorded 3 albums worth of music that’s unreleased, but we will be releasing some as singles. Again, we took a short break after we got COVID and was back making music. I’m a workaholic, so I record multiple people .

GrinderZZ: Are you working on any extra bug projects you can talk about with us?

Angel: Currently working on some projects with Keith Kc from Master Don and the Death Committee. He was an original member of Wrecks n Effects. Also, a new artist, Nino Brigantee, doing Reggeaton, Spanish Rap. I am venturing into other genres of music; Hip Hop, Reggeaton, Dancehall, Trap.

GrinderZZ: What encouraging words can you give someone right now who's looking to get into, music?

Angel: For anyone looking to get into producing and or being an artist. I would say believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone, musically. And the main advice is have your business in order. Meaning, get your publishing registered with BMI or ASCAP and learn the business of music.

GrinderZZ: How can fans reach out to you?

Angel: I can be reached on Instagram @Angelspeedcolon.

@djspeed724.

Also,

on

Facebook

GrinderZZ: Any last word's/request?

Angel: Thanks for having me. It’s always a pleasure to pass on what I have learned over the years, musically. Thank you!

Angel, thank you, again, for sharing your life with us. We truly appreciate you, and all of your contributions to the, Hip Hop community. Keep shining, and continue to put out those hits. God Bless you.

Bri Bri

Interviews With GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV Family is important to me, and when I find long lost members, it makes my heart melt. This beautiful and talented young lady is a cousin of mine and when I found out she can sing.....I had to get her in the magazine. Let's hear from her....

GrinderZZ: Good evening beautiful and welcome to my studio for this exclusive interview. Please tell my audience a little about yourself.

Bri: Hey my name is Briasia Renee and it was so nice to meet another part of my family. I live in Chattanooga, TN and I attend CCA/Chattanooga Center of Creative Arts. I’m sixteen, I have two siblings and I’m a singer.

GrinderZZ: How old were you when you first started singing?

Bri: I was around five when I started to notice when I could sing and six when I really started.

GrinderZZ: Name three artists who you like and if you had a chance would work with them in the studio?

Bri: Well, lol, I like Lil Baby. I would really like to work with him and, also, Ciara. I just really like her and she backs good music and then, of course, drake my man himself. He just fly all the way around.

GrinderZZ: I know you're still in high school.

Have you ever competed in any singing competition in school or around Tennessee?

Bri: No, I have not. I really should though. When my social anxiety kicks in, I start getting nervous.

GrinderZZ: Do you see yourself, in the future, becoming a professional singer?

Bri: YES! I would love to be able to sing, when I get grown. It’s always been a dream of mine. It’s really the only dream I’ve had. Well, and, of course, being a vet.

GrinderZZ: Do you have any type of performances the public can view?

Bri: Yes, I have a tik toc and an instagram that you all can follow me on. You can follow me on instagram @briasia_music and on tik tok as @bridayoungeen. There will be videos uploaded soon.

GrinderZZ: How do your parents feel about your singing career?

Bri: They practically forced me to try out for the school that I go to. So, I kind of owe it to them, in a way. They have always been pretty supportive about anything I’ve wanted to do.

Daryl Brown Interview (cont’d) GrinderZZ: What advice can you give to someone who's thinking about making singing their career?

Bri: It takes a good soul to want to be a singer, because this is no joke.

You’ve got to have a strong heart, because people will tell you that you can’t and you just got to prove them wrong. Love, because the ones that hate are the ones you want to be your friends, in real life, because I know that’s right.

Remember, I’ll tell you a joke, but baby I will never tell you a lie.

GrinderZZ: How can the fans reach out to you?

Bri: You can inbox me on any social media platform, also. You all can add me on Snapchat @ briasia_renee. There will, also, be stuff posted on there and if you comment and/or reach out, I will text back.

GrinderZZ: Any last word's/request?

Bri: Go listen to my music. I promise it won’t disappoint and it’s only up from here, baby. Here’s to the dreams and all my love for Brainerd High School, too. Have a great night ladies and gentleman and thank you for having me Bri, it's been a pleasure chatting with you. May all of your dreams come true. I love you. God Bless.

Blog and Doodle

By Kim Fannin “The Blog Lady”

Boogers & Chocolate Chips My nose started running.

I fished around in my purse for a tissue - Nothing. Digging a bit deeper, I found a napkin! (Good thing the Mom in me still stuffs unused napkins in my purse.)

I'm easily distracted, so I blew my nose & walked away. It wasn't until I put the groceries away that I realized I didn't get the chocolate chips. (This was after I searched each discarded bag & made sure they weren't lying alone in the car.) Crap.

That meant Another trip to Walmart.

I've reached the age where these kind of things happen.

Oh, I'm sure I did it in my, 30's, 40's & 50's....but NOW it occurs More Often.

Most times, it's walking into the kitchen & then forgetting why I went there. At the store, I guess I blew the thought right outa my mind.

I had a LIST, too. When I looked at this list after I put the popsicle box in the cart - I honestly thought I had everything on it. Didn't even see the frozen mixed berries listed under popsicles (I forgot those, too). When I looked at chocolate chips - in my mind - I thought I had them. HA! Fooled me!

I guess getting older really is an Adventure - It sure makes your days a little more interesting.

Flava Female

Congratulations to Michelle Taylor, for being chosen to represent GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine, as our female Flava of the month.

Born and raised in Virginia, Michelle is a beautiful lady with a unique heart of gold. Besides working and taking care of her family, Michelle loves to extend a helping hand when it comes to feeding the homeless and helping out households that are without food. She always goes beyond what the average person would do. Each person’s life that she has touched makes her extremely proud about her mission. Changing lives and letting people know that no matter what they're going through, there are people out here who still care about humanity. Thank you for all that you do, Michelle. God Bless you and your family.

ON THE GRIND WITH

SHENOBA KINSEY Shenoba Kinsey is a native of North Louisiana and attended college at Grambling State University. She is the CEO/Editor and Chief of Fuzionz Magazine & TV, Assistant Editor of GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV, an Author, Screenplay Writer, Ghost Writer and former Radio/Talk Show Host.

GrinderZZ stepped into the world of Shenoba Kinsey, the CEO of Fuzionz Magazine & TV. Read more about the renowned writer and Editor and chief .

Shenoba started Fuzionz in 2009 and later became a Radio Talk Show Host at Fishbowl Radio Network. Her mission is to promote an overall view of life events and serve as a platform for the best social media for community awareness worldwide, to bring positive insights into communities, to spread uplifting news, as well as connect people to organizations, or other resources that they need. She has interviewed on several Red Carpets, including the Soul Train Awards, BET, Stellar Awards, 365 Black Awards, SAG Awards, BMI Awards, BMA Awards, Black Music Honors & etc., as well as writing articles and conducting interviews, via Bounce TV, TV One and other entities.

Shenoba is currently working on several writing projects. Check out her website: at www.fuzionzmagazineandtv.com. Or email fuzionzmagazineandtv@hotmail.com;.

Art Weiss Interview

I just get so excited when I find great talent. Art Weiss definitely has it all, and he was so gracious to stop by our studio for a little chit chat.

GrinderZZ: Hi there Art! Welcome to our studio. Please tell my audience a little about yourself!

Art: I’m a Musician, Songwriter and Talent Scout, for 37 Years.

GrinderZZ: At what age did you first play an instrument?

Art: My Background coming from a circus and Music family in Europe.

When I was five years old, I was riding on an elephant, playing timpanis, when we did the advertising parade through the town.

Later, I started playing drums. I was taught by my grandfather, in the circus band.

Sometimes, I played the clown, too. We traveled all over Europe. I did this until I was nineteen years old, then I moved out, in the world, to become a professional musician.

GrinderZZ: Growing up, what musicians did you idolize, and wanted badly to perform with, if you could?

Art: First jazz musicians like Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Herbie Han-

cock , Jimi Hendrix , James Brown, The Brecker Brothers , Isley Brothers , Prince and many more. Then, after being influenced by all of these musicians, I created my own style of music-Afrikan Jazz Fusion.

In 1987, I made my first album called Art Weiss Heavens Door.

GrinderZZ: Have you, or were you ever a part of any music group that we know of?

Art: I’ve been on tour with Percy Sledge, Sam & Dave , Salomon Burke, John Lee Hooker , Mary J., Coolio, Latoya Jackson and many more.

GrinderZZ: The shutdown from the Coronavirus outbreak put a monkey wrench in a lot of different projects and thing's a lot of people were doing on a daily basis. Being a musician, did this affect you?

Art: I Wrote in my studio four Albums. Their out on Spotify: Art Weiss Rogue Jazz Vonica, Art Weiss Island Dreams , Art Weiss Change my World , Art Weiss Root Beats.

GrinderZZ: Are you currently working on any projects that you can talk about in this interview?

Art: Two Projects: 1) The Gustav Viehmeyer Fusion Orchestra. 2) The New Parlament James Brown Project , directed by GG Paisley Gorden, from Augusta GA GrinderZZ: What advice would you give someone who wants to get into the music industry?

Art: Learn and listen to all types of music and work harder; as normal, represent, always, professionally-100%. Make sure your instruments are always in great condition.

GrinderZZ: How can people reach out to you?

Art: My Agent in Tampa FL office wowjohnsonv@gmail.com. Phone and Fax +183-481-1505 GrinderZZ: Any last word's/request?

Art: Why be normal when you can be yourself. Love Art. Art, thank you kindly for conducting this interview with us. Please keep in touch. God Bless, and be safe.

AN INTERVIEW

With Regina Troupe I am so deeply moved by this lady, because I've been a HUGE fan of her ever since she was in the all-girl R&B group "Klymaxx", and to this day, Regina Troupe is still grinding strong. GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV was able to catch up with Ms. Troupe so we could get this exclusive interview: GrinderZZ: Thank you so much Ms. Troupe for chatting it up with us this afternoon. Please, tell some of the fans a little about yourself.

Regina: First, thank you Soo Much Angie for just reaching out to me! Also, for creating a platform for artist to shine and for the viewers to learn a little more about the artist. I was born in Louisville, KY, to a Baptist Pastor, so I'm a "PK" (Preacher's kid). Both of my mother & father were singers in gospel quartet groups. This is actually how they met. So, it is safe to say that my singing ability came from both of them. I am the youngest of 4 siblings, all which are singers & musicians. At the age seven, I started messing around with the piano at church and because I had an ear for music, I began to learn songs that I had heard on the radio. The first song that I learned to play was Bill Withers "Lean on Me". It was at that time that my parents noticed that I had the musician talent and they purchased my first piano, which they got from a yard sale for $50.

GrinderZZ: You grew up in the church with a minister father.

What was that experience like?

Regina: My father was not just an awesome preacher, he was a GREAT singer!!! As a child, I would watch him sing behind the pulpit and I witnessed people in the congregation become so emotional. He has the power to move the hearts of people with just the tone of his voice. It was magical! However; having a Pastor for a father could be a bit strict at times. He was totally about playing gospel music only. He did not like "worldly" music. In his car and at home he only played gospel music and other preachers sermons. My mother however; understood that all music was wonderful and would allow us to play R &B music when my father was not at home. She was not just a great singer, too, she was a great dancer. She taught us about the embodiment of music and to enjoy all aspects.

GrinderZZ: Between the ages of five and seven, when other little girls were playing jump rope, you amazingly taught yourself how to play the piano. Did you ever play for your father in the church during any of his sermons?

Regina: Absolutely not! I was terrified to play in front of my father during church service or really play in front of anyone. I would play on the piano after church had concluded when everyone was gone and was waiting on my dad. I was extremely shy as a little girl. Although I could play, I lacked the confidence to do it in front of people.

GrinderZZ: The all-time group that I loved growing up was your group, Klymaxx. You all had some chart- topping hits, and to this day, your songs are still getting radio play. How does that make you feel?

Regina: I moved to Atlanta in 1986 and met Joyce Fenderella Irby and started working with her in 1992 and she brought me into Klymaxx. So, the songs like Meeting in the Ladies Room and I Miss U were already in motion. My musical contribution is with the later recordings like the new single "Take U Back". However, being a part of one of the 1st female groups and definitely one of the baddest has truly been a blessing. I've had the opportunity to travel and perform all of the wonder music. So, yes when I hear any of songs on the radio, it still sounds as relevant and funky as it did over 30 years ago!

GrinderZZ: Do you and the girls ever get together on tour or just to hang?

Regina: Planes, trains, automobile and tour buses.... not much hanging because when you arrive in the city, you're extremely busy with sound check, press and just the show itself. Touring and be very exhausting and that's the part that the fans don't have the opportunity to see. They see you on the stage all dolled up and giving them the best experience. However; when it's over, you are tired and ready to get out of those 6-inch heels!! LOL GrinderZZ: You have done a tremendous amount of collaborations with a lot of artist......Kenny G,

Celine Dion, Tevin Campbell, Charlie Wilson, Peabro Bryson, and Ledisi just to name a few.

Are you currently working with anyone now?

Regina: I'm still working with Peabo Bryson on some things.

GrinderZZ: You produced songs off of Peabo Bryson album, and also got a Grammy nomination. How was that like?

Regina: That was an awesome experience!

After being a background singer with him for many years, he discovered that I was a writer when I popped in a cassette on the tour bus just to play a song that I had written for some of the band members. He was on the bus and started asking me who wrote and played the song and I told him that I did. It was at that time that he gave me my first shot in writing with him.

Although Peabo has recorded many albums, it was the "Unconditional Love" album which got him his 1st Grammy nod. I wrote and produced 5 songs on that project. So, of course I had the opportunity to attend the Grammys and have the entire experience. Berry White was the actual winner in our category, yet, the foundation was laid to do more amazing music together.

GrinderZZ: Do you have any upcoming shows that you could tell us about?

Regina: Given that I'm also an artist with my own shows, as well as the Keyboard player and Music Director of Joyce Irby and Klymaxx, you can find shows on several media outlets.

For the Regina Troupe Live! shows, visit my website http://www.reginatroupemusic.com ; As far as the Klymaxx shows you can check ticket master and the KlymaxxFM Facebook page.

GrinderZZ: If you can go back and give 20year old Regina Troupe some advice, what would that message be?

Regina Troupe Interview (cont’d)

Regina: To stay true to what you feel in your gut. Do not conform to what others tell you to do with your talent, based on what THEY think. Follow your heart and trust your gut and stay true to yourself. The reason I say this is because back when I was 20, I was always second guessing myself and I allowed people to superimpose their doubts, fears and insecurities on me and I scratched some really good music because I didn't trust myself.

GrinderZZ: What advice can you give someone who is just starting out in the music business?

Regina: First and foremost be TRUE to yourself! Don't try to be like anyone. Create your own path and style. Make sure that the music that you're putting out is something that you won't be ashamed of years to follow when you become a parent. Focus on leaving a legacy and not just a just a 1 hit wonder what will be forgotten in 12 months. GET AN ATTORNEY!!!!!! Find your own and not the one that the record label has. Make sure that you have someone working for you that has your best interest. READ and learn about the music business. There are so many avenues to be successful in music, but you must know the business first. So many young artists end up in horrible contracts and making no money because they are not knowledgeable about the business. There's so much more to music success than getting a song just on the radio. GET A FINANCIAL PLANNER!!! Should success come rapidly which now it can with shows like "American Idol" and "The Voice"; make sure that your finances are intact. Be well rounded and not one dimensional. If you play the game right, you will be in it for years!!!

GrinderZZ: How can fans reach out to you?

Regina: I am on all of the social media outlets. FB - Regina Troupe Music; IG- Regina Troupe; Twitter- @reginatroupemus GrinderZZ: Any last words?

Regina: Thank you GrinderZZ 24/7 for reaching out to me and giving me the opportunity to share my story! May you continue to have much success and growth!

Again, we, at GrinderZZ 24/7 Magazine & TV would like to thank you, Ms. Regina Troupe for your time and kindness. You’re so very welcome! It's been my pleasure!

Regina Troupe Cowhead Music Company LLC 404-771-8779 www.reginatroupemusic.com

GrinderZZ: Good afternoon Dr Titus, and welcome back to the, GrinderZZ 24/7 studio.

For those who may have missed your first interview, may you share some details about yourself?

Dr. Titus: Hello Angie and listeners, thank you for having me back on this wonderful show. I am a retired NYPD Homicide Detective and Hostage Negotiator, turned College Professor, Author, and Entrepreneur.

I grew up in South Jamaica Queens, back in the days when Hip-Hop started. I used to watch all the police shows on TV back then and idolized actors like Jim Kelly, Richard Roundtree, Jim Brown, etc., especially when they played cops or detectives. The original Shaft is one of my favorites. I decided to follow my dreams and got into policing to help people and right some of the wrongs I saw growing up. My plan was to one day becoming a detective, so I climbed the ranks, making detective in 2000, working my way up to the Homicide Squad, Hostage Negotiations, and the rank of Detective 1st Grade by 2016 when I retired. After experiencing policing and being on the front-lines and interacting with the young people in our communities, I wanted to do more. I continued my education, earning my Master’s and Doctorate, with the intention of teaching future law enforcement officers and being able to provide mentorship for the youth.

I started teaching at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where I teach future law enforcement officers about the criminal justice and policing, with a repeated emphasis on interacting with our communities with dignity and respect. I also wrote several books, the first book is to help guide the youth through the obstacles of life, Forward Motion… the Keys to Progress and Success, the second book is to guide future law enforcement

officers

GrinderZZ Interviews

Dr. Alfred Titus

through the ups and downs of a career in policing, The Personal Side of Policing, and the third is a children’s book to help reduce children’s fear of police and provide a fair assessment of what policing is supposed to look like, The Police Are Part Of Our Community. I also started two companies where I do speaking engagements, provide workshop, and forums for adults and the youth. The companies are focused on educating and changing the mindsets of our young to allow them to see the opportunities they have in front of them and educating our adults on raising their game to the next level and achieving everything they want in life. The companies have conducted a College/Trade School Scholarship, a Veteran’s and Homeless Sock Drive, a Success Academy Webinar Series, and a Police Interactions Seminar.

GrinderZZ: You're now an author, and I'm so thrilled. I purchased 5 of your books to give my daughter, and her friend's. Can you give my audience some information about your book?

Dr. Titus: After decades in Policing, I have seen the sentiment towards police change drastically. I felt the need to help create a different narrative, especially for the children. The book has simple language and is beautifully illustrated to show the diversity in our communities and in our police departments. The goal is to help improve the police-community relationship, help parents discuss policing with their children, and reduce the fear of the police by children.

The book also contains words common to policing like community policing and de-escalation, with definitions in the back, to encourage parents to discuss these terms with their children and explain how they can apply them to their lives.

"As adults, we are all entitled to our opinions, and we are free to feel or think about issues as we please."

GrinderZZ: What made you decide to create a kid's book?

Dr. Titus: Since writing this book, many have asked me why I chose to write a children’s book and furthermore, why a children’s policing book. My reasons stem from several different areas. First and foremost, is a responsibility I feel to the children. Throughout the last few years we have seen more police-community conflict than in many of years preceding those.

More recent tragedies occurring at the hands of police led to protests and violence in the streets. Additionally, conversations at home, around the dinner table, and in family and living rooms were focused on policing, how bad the police are, and how they should be defunded, etc. In many of these conversations, all police were bad, and none could be trusted. As adults, we are all entitled to our opinions, and we are free to feel or think about issues as we please. The concern that I held with these conversations was that in many cases, the children were there or in earshot, when these conversations were taking place.

When a child hears that a person or a group of people are bad and should be avoided, it instills fear in their hearts. Children cannot dissect what that really means, they can only be afraid; afraid to go to the police in an emergency, afraid when the police stop their parents, and worst of all – afraid when they are stopped by the police. Even if that stop occurs years later when they are older, the fear has been instilled already. A fear that will surface during a police interaction and can look like aggression, defiance, and

explain that there are some bad police officers, just as there are bad doctors, bad lawyers, and bad auto mechanics, etc. Our children need to know the evil that exist, while also knowing that they should not walk in fear, because evil is not the only thing that exist, there is good and bad in all facets of life.

By knowing and understanding this, our future adults can learn to assess each situation individually and then interact accordingly.

GrinderZZ: Since we've last spoke, there's been a tremendous amount of craziness between the, public, and officer's who think they're beyond the law. What's your input on everything that's been happening?

Dr. Titus: First and foremost, there are individuals in policing that do not belong in law enforcement. There are ways of thinking that do not belong in policing, and from what I am seeing – they are being identified and weeded out. The Criminal Justice System and Policing in the U.S. are not perfect institutions; however they are going through tremendous transition right now. Injustices are being addressed like they never were before. Some of the decisions, policies, programs, and advancements we are seeing today are some of the achievements our ancestors were fighting for decades ago. Convictions, rule and policy changes, promotions, elections, etc… there is progress. For change to occur, there must be struggle, and that is what we have seen over the last few decades, and things are changing. There is still a lot to do and many more battles to be fought and won, some will come easy and soon, while others will be difficult and take time. Based on the direction things are going, I predict that we will see less injustice and more justice on our streets and in our courtrooms, over the next few decades. However, for that to happen, our people must get involved and be part of the solution. Not just by protesting, but by getting into law, policing, politics, etc. Police departments will never be abolished, and defunding hurts our communities, as we can see by the rise in crime and violence in our communities throughout the country. The key is having representation in policing at the highest levels, in corrections at the highest levels, in politics at the highest levels, in the criminal justice system and the courtrooms at the highest levels. That is how we gain traction, that is how we right wrongs, that is how we win!

GrinderZZ: How have you and your family been able to cope with the pandemic?

Dr. Titus: We are all doing well. We have all remained healthy and have learned to adjust to the new way of living that the pandemic has created. We have become more grateful for each other and have learned to cherish the moments we can share together. It has been an adjustment.

GrinderZZ: Are you currently working on another book?

Dr. Titus: I am working on several books: a criminal justice textbook, a follow-up to the first two books, a book highlighting some of the great cases I was part of while working Homicide and Hostage Negotiations in NYPD, and a fictional Detective Drama Trilogy. It’s exciting, I enjoy writing and the calm that is associated with it for me.

aderie that exists between officers. It is like having a huge family that is always there when you need them. The police department also has organizations that put on numerous events throughout the year that help officers stay together.

GrinderZZ: What advice can you give to someone who may be looking to get into, law enforcement, or becoming an author?

Dr. Titus: Law enforcement is a great career choice, and the pension is an extra bonus. I tell all my students who may be on the fence about policing, that policing is going through a huge transition based on the changing perspective of the new generation and society as a whole. Now is an exciting time to be part of policing that is not the old policing, but the new policing. Additionally, they can be part of the many changes that occurring and the many opportunities that are opening for them.

Once I became an Author, I realized that a lot of people want to write and become authors. I say, do it! The internet and social media have made writing and publishing an easier task than in the past. I suggest, keeping notes, jot things down, make recording notes on your phone of ideas, and then just write. Sit down with a pen and paper or on a computer and just let the ideas flow, without worrying about spelling, grammar, or punctuation – just write. Then, take a look and see what you have and decide where you want to take it from there, by either adding to the front-end of the story or adding more towards the end. You can always correct grammar and the like later.

GrinderZZ: May you share with my audience the website to purchase your book?

Dr. Titus: Signed copies of my books can be purchased from either of my websites: www.atitusconsulting.com or www.forwardmotionlifesuccess.org They can also be purchased through Amazon.

GrinderZZ: Do you have any last words/shout outs that you'd like to share right now?

Dr. Titus: I’d like to shout out my beautiful adult children: Tiffany, Brianna, and Michael.

I’d also like to thank you for interviewing me and for providing this great platform that allows voices to be heard. It is important that we are able to share our experiences with others, in hopes that it inspires them to reach for the goals and dreams they desire in life!

An Interview With Cheryl Song— Former Soul Train Dancer GrinderZZ: Can you please tell my audience a little about yourself?

Cheryl: My name is Cheryl Song. A lot of peo-ple ask me if that is my “stage name” but believe it or not, that is the legal name that I was born with. I remember when I was a child, I used to hate my last name, because the kids in school would call me Sing Song, or ask me why wasn’t my name Cheryl Mu-sic – just silly stuff like that. And I wondered why I didn’t have a name like Smith or Jones (I was in elementary school at the time, and didn’t know the origin of last names). But now I love my last name – because I DO love music, and my name is catchy and everyone remembers it.

I’m one of the few people who was actually born and raised in Los Angeles.

It’s a great city, and I’ve seen so many changes that have gone on both good and bad. I went to a pre-dominantly Asian elementary school, where I was an excellent student – they even let me skip the 5th grade. It wasn’t until middle school and High School (I went to Dorsey High School) where I was exposed to different eth-nicities. But going to Dorsey High school, which was predominantly Black, allowed me to learn how to get along with everybody, which was a great benefit.

GrinderZZ: At what age did you first discover your dancing talents?

Cheryl: Coming from very strict Asian parents, I didn’t start dancing ‘til a very late age. As a child watching TV, dancing was something for the pretty White ladies, not for someone who looked like me. And growing up in the family that I had, we weren’t allowed to speak up or voice how we felt. That was NOT allowed. So I learned how to bottle up my feelings (which was better than getting yelled at for speaking up). But I found out that dancing was a way I could express myself without speaking – and that was my release and probably my saving grace. But it really wasn’t until high school, where I started dancing.

And I loved watching my Black classmates dance, and I wanted to dance as good as them. That’s when I really discovered that I had a knack for expressing myself through physical movement.

I took all the dance classes I could in school, but when I wanted to be a dance major in college, I had such backlash from my par-ents.

My mother TOLD me that I was going to major in ei-ther math or science, but my father told me to do whatever I wanted because I would never be anything anyways.

GrinderZZ: Growing up, what type of music did you like, and who were your favorite artists?

Cheryl: Since my first love was dance, I always gravitated to-wards dance music, anything with a good beat and a promi-nent baseline. Whether it was disco, R&B or pop – if it was danceable – that was my music! Growing up, my favorite artists were The Jacksons and The Temptations – but my favorite artist of all time is and will always be Michael Jack-son. He was the best dancer, second to none, and his music was so incredible – it just made you want to dance.

But now, I do like other types of music and appreciate peo-ple’s artistry more than just “could you dance to it”. I love Whitney Houston, Bruno Mars, John Legend, and even Garth Brooks and Andrea Bocelli.

GrinderZZ: Did people look at you differently because you were an Asian Female with a lot of Soul?

Cheryl: Yes, people DID look at me differently because I didn’t dance like a White girl (laughing). Even in high school, my Black friends said I had “Soul” and I was very proud of that one thing that set me aside from everyone else. I can’t tell you what they nicknamed me, but it was very funny.

GrinderZZ: At what age did you first appear on Soul Train?

Cheryl: When Soul Train moved from Chicago to Los Angeles, they went around to a lot of the Black high schools to find dancers.

Going to the predominantly Black Dorsey High school, I knew some of the students there were dancers on Soul Train. I knew two guys that danced on the show and I saw them looking at me and whispering to each other laughing. Then they came up to me and out of the blue said, “We’re going to bring you on Soul Train” – and I (kind of in shock) said “Okay” – and that was that!

Cheryl Song Interview (continued…)

GrinderZZ: How was Don Cornelius as your boss?

Cheryl: Don Cornelius was a very hard man to work for. He was the boss, and everything was done the way HE wanted it. There was no compromising, no meeting of the minds, he was the dictator.

But, in retrospect, this was his baby and it never would have come to being if he wasn’t who he was. You can’t take away the fact that he was an innovator and was one of the first – if not THE first Black person to own his own show on national television. And to have that show outlast any other dance show of its kind is absolutely remarkable.

GrinderZZ: You’ve also toured with the late Michael Jackson, and was featured in the Beat It video, and also worked with the late Rick James. Was there a hard auditioning process to work with either mega superstar?

Cheryl: Actually, I did not have to audition for either Michael Jackson or Rick James.

For Rick James’ “Superfreak” – I got a phone call from

one of the other female Soul Train dancers named Leslie. She told me that they wanted me to be in a Rick James video, gave me the date and location and it was as simple as that. When I got there, Rick James was telling jokes throughout the entire shoot and had everybody in stitches. Rick and I sort of ran around in the same circles, so he knew who I was and immediately started kidding around with me the minute I got on the set. He was so great to work with, and if he wasn’t a musician, he definitely could have been a comedian.

dance on such a ground-breaking show.

Michael and I knew each other, and I had worked with him on several other occasions. We had several conversations over the phone. He would call me and tell me what he wanted or what he needed, and I would facilitate that. One time he called me because he wanted to learn how to do what was called at the time – the “Backslide”. He was very insistent about it and I told him not to worry, that I would find him the right people to teach him. That became what is now known as the “Moonwalk” and I am so proud to have been responsible for that. I went to visit him while he was filming “Billy Jean”.

After that was done, he called me and wanted me to find him dancers for “Beat It”. I set up the audition for him, and while I was on the set for “Beat It”, he put me in the scene at the bar where the gang members are called away for the rumble. A lot of people don’t know this, but in my scene where my gang-member boyfriend and I are sitting at the bar - hewas just supposed to get up and join the other guys. But right when they were shooting the scene, he grabbed my hair, pulled my head back and kissed me.

Everyone was shocked when that happened, but they decided to keep it in the video.

GrinderZZ: I also write for Fuzionz Magazine, and so excited that I was able to interview you on the red carpet of the 2016 Soul Train Awards.

How does it feel to still be recognized?

Cheryl: Honestly, I am still amazed when I get recognized. I mean, I am truly flattered and absolutely humbled because I left the show in 1990, which was 30 years ago! But to be recognized today is a Blessing, and I feel so fortunate that Don Cornelius allowed me to

GrinderZZ: Are there any new projects coming up that you’re able to speak about at this present time?

Cheryl: Yes Angela! I have a special project in the works. I can’t tell you much more, because the legalities are being finalized as we speak. But it is a brand new venture for me, and I can’t wait until it hits the ground!

GrinderZZ: What advice can you give to someone that’s starting out in dancing?

Cheryl: Be yourself – but be the best YOU that you can be. Practice and train until the movement flows through your body without you having to think about it. But nowadays, things are done very differently. It used to be, you would have to go to a live audition, where they would teach you a routine and choose who they wanted. But now, people put themselves on Tik Tok or Instagram, or they market themselves and the next thing you know, they’ve got a million fol-lowers.

GrinderZZ: How can fans reach out to you?

Cheryl: My Facebook page is Cheryl Song and my Instagram handle is CherylSong1. A lot of peo-ple reach me through Messenger. I don’t always have time to answer everyone immediately, but I do my best.

GrinderZZ: Cheryl, at this time do you have any last words/shoutouts you’d like to give?

Cheryl: I would just like to say Thank You to all the fans of Soul Train who have opened up their hearts to me and accepted me as the first Asian dancer on the show. I never in a million years thought I would receive such love. And I do not take it for granted. I appreciate everyone’s thoughtfulness and kind comments. I’ve been through some tough times, but the love I have received from everyone has made it all worth it – so Thank You!!!

Lou Rawls Jr. - On The Grind When you hear the words, "YOU'LL NEVER FIND, ANOTHER LOVE LIKE MINE", the first thing that should come to mind is, the talented lyrics of Lou Rawls.

Even with his departure from earth, his spirit and his music still lives on. I am so happy to have caught up with his son, producer/executive/actor, Lou Rawls Jr. Mr. Lou was so gracious to answer my call from his busy schedule to have a one on one sit down.

GrinderZZ: Hi Mr. Lou! Thank you for hanging with me today inside the GrinderZZ studio. Can you please tell my audience a little about yourself?

Lou: Hello! First, thank you for having me in your great publication. I’m very fortunate to be healthy in these crazy times of the Corona 19 virus, and in the age of Trump, (which is a whole other subject) and to anyone who has lost a friend and or family member to this pandemic, I’m so sorry.

GrinderZZ: Your father was a legend, the great Lou Rawls. How was it like having him as your dad when you realized who he was in the entertainment industry?

Lou: It was great, but like all families, we had our disagreements at times. I really didn’t know how famous he was until I went on the road with him. He was gone a

lot of the time while I was growing up, but we did have quality times together.

GrinderZZ: I see you went a different direction from your father's and started doing films. How proud was he of you?

Lou: Actually I was in a band with Marvin Gaye’s son, and we were signed to Capital Records, but at that time, Capital had dissolved its black/urban division and then the band split up before we could get another deal. My father was very proud of me, and the fact I did it on my own without coming to him for help.

Lou Rawls Jr. Interview (continued…)

GrinderZZ: Growing up, did you ever go out on the road with your father?

Lou: Yeah, it was incredible! One time we did 36 one nighters in 41 days, and I had to be called Eyes by everyone who worked for my father. My dad’s fan base was very broad.

Black, White, Hispanics, Asian and Indian

people. He actually opened several Native American casinos and 5 hotels in Las Vegas. People would follow me, and sometimes it was overwhelming and difficult to understand how his music affected people, and the lengths they would go to reach him. After You’ll never find came out, he was one of the biggest stars in the world! Natalie Cole, Jay Leno, The Pointer Sisters, Arsenio Hall, and Tina Turner were all my father’s opening acts.

GrinderZZ: You did a couple of great movies, Ethyrea: Code of the Brethren, Love is a Hurting Thing and Double Tap in 2011. Are you currently working on anything you could speak about with my audience?

Lou: I’m producing films, working on music, and I’m an ambassador for a great company. The company is Deberger & Bears out of Switzerland, and they make and sell incredible time pieces, and also selling Masterworks from the most famous and well known painters in the world Picasso, Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, the most beautiful and expensive, Pink, Blue, and yellow Diamonds and precious stones in the world. The Covid virus like everything else, has affected all of these industries. Hopefully in the near future, things will get back to normal, so I’m very excited about the future.

GrinderZZ: Tell us how things are going with the Lou Rawls Foundation?

Lou: The foundation, right now, is dormant and restructuring the board of directors, but we’ll be back up

Lou Rawls Jr. Interview (continued…)

and running in the very near future, and very much looking forward to getting back to helping the community at large.

GrinderZZ: With Hollywood and the entire world being lockdown because of the pandemic, Covid 19, how have you been keeping busy?

Lou: I’ve gotten into the world of Gaming and Technologies. V R. Holograms, a company called Weisman worldwide Inc. This pandemic has really affected all facets of business, and the lives of everyone. I’ve been putting together a list of contacts and connections to reach out to with these new opportunities. I’ve been blessed. When this pandemic allows the world to find some sort of normalcy and people can get back to doing things again, I’ll be really busy.

GrinderZZ: What advice could you give to someone who maybe thinking about getting into the music or movie industry?

Lou: Learn the business, it’s called Show Business for a reason! it’s critical and crucial to know what you’re getting into, especially now with all the different streaming platforms, and social media outlets that are available. The entertainment industry is a totally different animal than it used to be.

GrinderZZ: Name 3 celebrities you would love to collaborate on a project with.

Lou: Hmmm, that’s an interesting question. For music, it would be Pharrell, Al Pacino for Films, and Bill Gates.

GrinderZZ: How can the fans reach out to you?

Lou: I’m on all the social media platforms. Facebook ,Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat, all under Lou Rawls jr. I respond to all messages and requests.

GrinderZZ: Any last words, or shout outs you would like to give at this present time?

Lou: Once again, thanks so much for the interview and for everyone to stay safe during this Pandemic. PLEASE, don’t forget to Vote! This is very important for each and every person to get out and do! Your vote really matters for this election. This vote is most important in our lifetime for sure.

Mr. Lou Rawls Jr., it's been a pleasure talking with you. Please don't be a stranger. May God continue to send blessings your way.