Latin Jazz Singer. Television and movie Actress. Mari Nobre is a well respected and talented entertainer. She is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, singer/ songwriter with numbers billboard hits.
Starting her career at the tender age of 14 as the opening act for Italian star Amedeo Minghi. After a year on tour she trained in classical Opera and perfected her performing skills both as background vocalist and soloist. Venturing into Acting she hosted many television shows and shined in classical theatre.
Her talents went unnoticed only a short while when RCA hired her to work in Milan on Latin pop recording projects many appeared numerous times on the billboard. Her move to New York yielded her own original band (Passion Latina) performing with several R&B, Pop and Salsa bands like the "Latin All Stars", "E. Breton Salsa ensemble" and members of the "Chico O始Farrell Orchestra". Working as a singer/songwriter with Jeanne Ricks (Aretha Franklyn) and Arturo Ortiz (Ricky Martin). A proud member of Screen Actors Guild Mari has booked numbers TV commercials, host TV shows and acted in movies such as "Hitch" with Will Smith. Some clients include Sony, Random House, Living Language and many others. Known for versatility and stage presence, Mari sings in five languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and French. Having recently toured with acts Djavan and Ivan Lins. Living in Los Angeles she performs regularly with her sensual acoustic Latin-pop band "Alma Latina" and World/Jazz band "Nobresil". The current musical director of her band Nobresil is a Latin Grammy awarded, Brazilian bass player Leo Nobre (Sergio Mendes, Stevie Wonder, Shakira. This amazing singer/songwriter released her CD, "Nobresil- In Brazil" arranged by twice Grammy nominated musician and composer Jovino Santo Netos. Which played on 750 radio throughout United States as well as in Central Europe and in Italy.Planning the bands world tour and she's releasing her new promo CD "Alma Latina" in Spanish with breath taking guitar playing from Dan Sistos and spectacular Argentinean pianist Pablo Medina. If that wasn't enough Mari writing new original songs for Nobresil's next CD.
Order TODAY and start teaching your child the word of God! www.milkandhoneybooks.com 1-888-552-1395
PG6
Chris Cortez
Celebrating his 25th CD release Chris Cortez is a Guitarist, Vocalist, Band Leader, Concert Promoter and record label owner named Blue Bamboo Music. A well respected and voting member of the Grammys and has participated in the Grammys as an Artist, Producer and Engineer. Featured in numerous magazine and other press outlets including Downbeat, Jazziz, Jazz Times, All About Jazz, Jazzreview.com, Jazz Improv, Le Jazz, Hot Paris Magazine among others‌Oh yeah now ATH Mini Mag. Sensing his calling to the business at the age of 9 by arranging neighborhood kids to be in his band. Through continual encouragement her received from his mother, Ginny Cortez he booked his first gig at the age of 16. Performing with a pit band of Man of La Mancha at the Orange Blossom Playhouse in Orlando, Florida.
PG7
Great performers have great stories of great 'mess ups' on stage. Chris recalls his first 'mess up'. "My first day atDisney World in the Kids of the Kingdom Band. The music was taped together in a large stack. Being my first day, I hadn’t memorized the show. When the show started, a gust of wind took my charts and expanded them like a giant Accordian. It went flying off one side of my music stand and pulled the stand over and it went flying down the staircase in front of Cinderella’s castle. I had to put my guitar down and go chasing after it, in front of about 5,000 guests who were no longer looking at the singers/dancers on the stage. Took me most of the remaining part of the show to get the music back in order again. Some musicians have or feel need the need to portray a overly confident 'alter ego' and list off their professional accomplishments. But, Mr. Cortez shared with ATH Mini Mag his crowning achievement in his career, "Years ago I wrote a song called Man With No Arms. I gave a CD to a man whose wife was dying of painful bone cancer. Somehow my music soothed her pain, and they would unite as a family, around the stereo and sing my song. It became their anthem, and he swore that while they were singing together, her pain would magically disappear. The awesome power and responsibility of that continues to blow my mind. 20+ years later." "The life of a musician is difficult. Any time I had trouble finding a gig was difficult. There have been plenty of those times. Having a gig that fails to satisfy artistic goals is almost as bad. There is a period after completing each album I refer to as the “pit of despair.” The only cure is the next project." Staying motivated to stay on the course of 'creative expression' can be hard. Inspiration can come and go Mr. Cortez gets "inspired by observation of all of life." A musician and/or a any creative mind stays on the prowl for the next spark for their next big project. Some play music of their favorite artist or read poetry but Chris states, "I wish I knew. Solitude is part of it, but no guarantee. I think of it more as a process of discovery, than creation. It’s like the ideas are out there, and I am grabbing them as they pass by." A very laid back and down to earth spirit explaining his swag/style as, "Old dude. LOL! Seriously though… Don Draper on a good day. Jack Nicolson from the Shining on a bad day." Comparing himself to "Mr Pat Martino is a good example of a role model for me." And closing his sentence with, "I heard Pat Martino say this, but I think it originated with Bruce Lee… but it is probably older than that too: “I want to be like water. I will take the shape of whatever you pour me into.” Giving our audience some cool and unique advice. "Always take your wallet on stage with you. Never leave it in the dressing room. If you want to be a side man, never buy a van or a PA system. That’s what band-leaders do. Practice doesn’t end. You need it just to stay as good as you are. You need a lot to move forward. Be the kind of person that asks “How can I help?” not the kind that says “What’s in it for me, and how little effort can I get away with?” Develop multiple, related skill sets. Photography, graphics, video editing, web design, etc… Maintain your integrity. Don’t play music you don’t honestly enjoy. Read music…Read books…Listen Things not to do is indeed just as important, his advice... Play out of tune. Fail to swing (regardless of genre) Fail to listen to the whole band, not just yourself. Three unknown things about you. I live a very open life, so not much is hidden. I’m a Buddhist and I love cats In addition to all the serious stuff, I really like silly disco songs like Ring My Bell and Double Dutch Bus. The best way your fans can keep in touch. Email or Facebook. cortezguitar@earthlink.net
PG8
The Grammys blasted off on 4th May 1959 to keep rock ‘n’ roll at bay. Michael Jackson is the Male Artist who won most Grammys (eight in one night) in the year 1983. The list was followed by Carlos Santana in the year 1999. DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince (AKA actor Will Smith) were announced the first Grammy winners for a Rap Performance in 1989. The first artists to be stripped off from Grammys were Milli Vanilli in 1989, when it was discovered that the album was not originally sung by them.
Sinead O’Connor was awarded for Best Alternative Album. But she refused to accept her award and boycotted the Grammy ceremony. By maintaining her absence, she protested against the ‘extreme’ commercialism of the Grammy Awards. Sir Georg Solti has been honored with Most Lifetime Grammy Awards. He was nominated 74 times and won 31 Grammys. Quincy Jones pulls the record for the most Grammy nominations (i.e. 79). The youngest person ever to be nominated for a Grammy is Billy Gilman. He was exactly 12 years, 273 days old when he earned the nomination. Snoop Dogg is an American rapper, record producer and actor. He had been nominated for Grammy Award 12 times, but has failed to win an award. Stevie Wonder is the most ever Grammy Awards winner, as he has been honored with 28 Grammys. He has also been presented with Lifetime Achievement Award.
PG9
Holding the prestigious title as Grammy Award winner is any entertainer involved in the music business inspires to hold. The 6 pound, shiny paper weight is just a physical manifestation of all the hard work, time and creativity invested into their passion. The Okee Dokee Brothers are one of the most sought after groups in their field. The Bluegrass/Folk band won a Grammy for Best Children's Music Album of the Year in 2013 and was nominated for the same title in 2014. They have been featured in The Rolling Stones Magazine, USA Today, The Washington Post, Huffington Post and many more well know media outlets. Joe Mailander is one half of the Grammy Award Winning group The Okee Dokee Bothers. From Denver, Colorado Joe started in music fairly young playing with other musicians more so as a hobby. But it wasn't until he teamed up with Justin (the other Okee Dokee Brother) was when he started creating music and writing songs. After that union he knew this was he true career path. His parents have supportive of his career, which is always great especially entertainers. "My parents were very encouraging and always big supporters of the arts. I had a few older friends in bands too who were role models for me. They suggested so many great artists to listen to, and that's what gave us our start in songwriting", Joe states. For entertainers that have been working the UNPAID circuit do not feel discouraged. Joe recalls, "We were probably around 16 when we played our first paying gig at a coffee house in Denver CO. We continued to tour from that point on for 3 summers playing free shows at homeless shelters across the country (supported by grants and donations). That was a great way to see the country, work on our performance chops, and spread music to those in need." Although his first gig was paying he went on to book and play free gigs just the same as the paid gig. I have heard stories of many entertainers in all fields that the seeds they planted through free gigs the fruit of experience in their out weighed the money that would've came and went. And many actual booked paying gigs from referrals and recommendations from the awesome work displayed during the non paying gig. So gig-on paid or not. hiking part of the Appalachian Trail
When you love what you do it shows regardless of the circumstance. Joe told me a secret‌. here it is. They always mess up! Joe continues, "We always mess up! But we've made our imperfections part of our brand, so it always turns out to be funny and the best part of the show! That way kids and families can relate to us, like we're part of the family." I say a sign of a true musician is they can mess up an incorporate it into his/her act flawlessly.
PG13
I received a CD/DVD copy of their latest project Through the Woods. I am a lover all forms of music. I put the DVD into the player and pressed play. Myself and my children enjoy the DVD very much as well as the songs. These guys are funny, talented and wicked crazy! The DVD is a must see. They spent a full month hiking "through the woods" hence the name of their incredible CD/DVD. Throughout their hike they make frequent stops to jam with fellow musicians, write music and chat with the locals about the history of folk music. Inspired by, " month-long outdoor adventures... The history, geography, and culture of a region really informs our music and writing. We've canoed the Mississippi for an album, hiked part of the Appalachian Trail for another, and we're heading out west or horses for our next album." These musical out doorsmen will stop at nothing to bring, fun loving, positive and educational music to their fans. Joe states the only downfall is the time it takes traveling. Somehow he manages to make it through by listening to good music. I wonder does he listen to his music too? Or maybe Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger. Which calls, "two great folk heroes spreading music to kids and families." A hero to many Joe shares his career highlight, "Winning a Grammy for Can You Canoe and getting nominated for Through the Woods recently have been great highlights, but nothing beats seeing kids singing every word to a song you wrote!" the full band
The lyrics are playful, engaging and subtly filled with life lessons. These are songs that encourage kids to find happiness with fewer material possessions and embrace adventure even in trying situations. Without getting preachy or heavy-handed, Mailander and Lansing come off like happy, kind and fun big brothers eager to show their younger siblings how to have an ethically sound and green-conscious good time. ‒ Chicago Tribune
Take a few notes from a pro, Joe's career changing advice. DO-Work hard everyday, like it's your job! DO-Write a lot, perform a lot, ask lots of questions. DON'T play for free (unless it for a good cause), DON'T party too much on the road, DON'T skimp where it matters... i.e. your art.
stay in the loop www.okeedokee.org & www.facebook.com/okeedokeebros
PG14
Givng You A Taste...
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A Taste of Honey TV CD coming Spring 2015
Honey Azul's new gospel hip-hop single coming top of Spring 2015 PG15
Many professionals from various fields usually do not know exactly what they want to do as a profession until later in life. However, I have found with creative souls such as Artists, Writers, Musicians,ect. they know at a very early age their career choice. Proving my case once again is professional songwriter and musician Mike Flanagan. He describes his moment of epiphany, "When I was 15, my parents took me to see Yasko Kubota play. Within minutes of hearing her play the piano, my life was forever changed. I immediately started going to every show, studying with her." Music and creativity runs through his veins, literally. Mikes explains how his grandfather was such an influence to him. " My grandfather was an incredible influence. He was a trumpet player and a singer and back when i used to practice (saxophone) when i was really young, he would come in and help me. Especially if I got frustrated, he would slow me down and make sure I focused on the important things. He also taught me piano first and later I started studying with Yasko."
Being an independent artist can being a exhaustive but rewarding feat. Mike's hardest part about being independent with ATH Mini Mag. "So, I'm going to be honest here and say that I think the hardest part about being an independent artist is the immense costs of everything. It is so overwhelming at times and I find myself asking myself *okay how am I going to make that happen* It’s extremely stressful at times. So in short, money is the hardest part and funding your dream. ` But that is something that a lot of us share. So my story is probably not very different from a lot of others." I personally can totally relate to this. I have made many sacrifices for the art of art. He continues with his most rewarding time in his career thus far. "I would say reaching #1 on the iTunes Jazz Charts with my sophomore and most recent album Mob Music. I believed in the magic that my 2 main singers and I have and to see it reach people the way it has showed me that following my gut was right. The chart topping coupled with my CD release concert and most recent nomination for 5 OUTmusic awards." Making all those sleepless nights and stressful time worth it, congress to Mr. Flanagan! Now my first PAYING gig wasn't until I think in my twenties but Mr. Flanagan booked his first PAYING .PAYING gig when he was 17. Any independent entertainer can recall days when you bust your hump only for the love of the art and as called in the industry 'copy and credit' to build your experience and resume. Booking a PAYING gig at 17 speaks for his talents and determination. Learning and growing in ones gifts go hand and hand as do stumbling and walking. A entertainer that executes with precision arrived there through many trails. Mike recalls a instance when he messed up during a performance. "Ugh! One of my least favorite performance memories. I was performing with Hayley Griffiths (Vocalist for River Dance, Lord of the Dance). There was a section where the other keys player and trade solos and battle. I had the type of Keyboard where the sound I wanted to use was right next to the Harpsichord option. As I changed settings, I changed to the Harpsichord and my solo got completely wiped out volume wise. So embarrassing. I told myself to make sure I didn’t do that. As far as recovery I just had to forget it happened. haha." We share some musical influences and I too love harmonies. Mike, "I always tell people my biggest influences of all time are D’Angelo and Lauryn Hill. In most recent years, i’ve become an huge Dixie Chicks fan. All of this boils down to my love of R&B and my obsession with vocal harmonies. My own music is truly a hybrid of R&B and Jazz (lots of spontaneity, improvisation both instrumentally and vocally) with 3 part harmony as the forefront." He compares himself to Herbie Hancock or Robert Glasper not so much vocally (being that he doesn't sing) but through his vocalists and his writing style for the lyrics they sing. Giving insight into what gets his creative juices flowing, "Mostly the ups and downs of life. I draw from experiences that often times leave me emotionally unresolved and I get my resolution through immortalizing that feeling or situation in a song." Some little know things about Mike is he speaks Italian, sign ASL, and knows a handful of Russian. He would also like to learn Japanese someday. He is a huge volleyball junkie playing 3 times a week and he wants “U N UR Hand” by P!nk to be his wedding song. Awww, ladies he is so sweet Um could it be someone he is/has popped the big question to??? His final words are words of wisdom for any musician. "Do not take a grassroots audience/following for granted. They are what get you off the ground. Thank them endlessly and give them the attention they give you. Don’t just ignore their posts, messages and comments. Do not let anyone else change your music if it doesn’t feel right to you. I did that on my first album and I have never lived it down. That album is just not me as a result. Learn how to say No! You can't say yes to everything because there are people who will try to get what they are looking for and not think about how it affects you."
PG17
You can check out Mike Flanagan's music, events, news and maybe who or if he did pop the question at Facebook.com/MRFMikeFlanaganMusic, Twitter.com/MikeFlanagan_, Instagram: @MikeMRF
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A Taste of Honey Mini Magg SCHEDULE/THEME 2015 JAN- ATHMM 2014 Recap & 2015 Upcoming FEB- African Artist Benedict Edet & Vocalist Zakiya Harris MAR- The Grammy Issue APR- OPEN MAY- Kids Issue JUNE- Summer Heat Issue JULY- Rep Your Independence AUG- Model/Photographer/Graphic Artist Issue SEPT- ? OCT- Imagination Issue NOV- Gospel Issue 2015 DEC- ?
For more information visit our website at www.ATasteofHoneyMiniMag.info
PG18