ETZTheMagazineSPRINGISSUE2013

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etz

Cash Porter • J Bro-D • Gheddys Burg • Kidko Vega

Spring Issue 2013

Introducing La Veda She will leave you speechless

Cover Photo : Stevie Robinson

Mike braxton Get Money Filmz

Coming 2013 he cant be stopped

Spring

Issue

2013

etz The Magazine

CEO/Publisher David Indikator Fuller

Creative Consultant Mike Braxton

Bringing you the hottest interviews from today's rising stars

Contributing Writer(s) Various Submissions The Graf Master KR David Indikator Fuller Mike Braxton

Contributing Photography Various Photographers and Submissions

Advertising ETZTheMagazine@aol.com 215-624-1035

Editing ETZ TV Productions

Blog enterthezonetv.blogspot.com

Website issue.com/enterthezonetv

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FEATURES Nina Capone Murda Mami

In Memory This issue is dedicated to the memory of Mimi Fincher, Xavier University (OH) schoolmate and friend.

Words cannot begin to express how we feel about having lost you. We love you dearly, Rest In Power my sister, you are truly missed!

Mia Bella KRU Tamara Bubble Front Page Entertainment KAYO NALA GOLD Cash Porter J. Bro-D DJ. KDL Mike Lee A. el and many, many more

Like Us at Facebook/ETZTheMagazine

Join The Movement

Contact us at ETZTheMagazine@aol.com

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Letter From The Publisher Let me begin by saying "Thank You" to everyone who continues to support The Indikator, Enter The Zone TV and Damage Entertainment. I must say, I was very overwhelmed by the great response, we received after the relaunch issue debuted this past January.

We are looking forward to continuing the momentum that was established by the reintroduction of ETZ The Magazine. I want to thank all the artists who appeared in the relaunch issue, for giving of their time and sharing a bit of themselves with us, for you, our readers. I would like to thank the"team" for continuing to believe that what we're doing is the right thing to do. Thank you to all of the talented artists, that may not get the exposure they deserve, we are here to support you. Thanking my family goes without saying, I love you all. Please continue to support, as we can only get better with your help. Peace to you all and keep reading!

David Indikator Fuller Publisher ETZ The Magazine

The Indikator 6

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I go by the Artist name of Tony Loko.

Oringinally from Brooklyn Flatbush but area and also lived for a period in Trenton New Jersey. I am a Hip hop and Dancehall Artist and a a Film Director and Producer.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? Music has always been a part of my life early on. When I seen i was capable rapping and blowing listeners away, mainly friends and family that will listen to me freestyking at the crib on the corners in the pojects everywhere we go. I was putting it with my style and these seem people will give me that confience like you can do this and that kept me to push on and pursue a career in this business.

I took that as a divine sign that music was my calling. I have been now doing music for the last four years now.

What's the indie music scene like in your city? Well currently I m in Florida working with different producers from Miami and Orlando area. There is a lot of talent out here and everybody is grinding you can see the hunger in a lot of these artist face. I seen shows where there is a open mic nights and there be like 30 acts you that shows that people are taking there music pretty serious to some level.

Musical influences? Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., Scarface, Jay-Z, DMX and Nas individuals that really step the bar for hip hop and took it somewhere out the hood for real. Every corner of the world now has hip hop influence in it.

Is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does it need work and why? I'll say no they don't cause when you are put in a pit with other hungry indiviuals who don't value or appreciate your talent before you blow up majorly, people sit back and hate and don't support beause they don't want to see you shine. Which is whack that s not music thats jus pure hating, and that bothers cause I appreciate talent and hard on all levels maybe they will figure that out too someday.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Well, I have been privilege to cross path and work with indivuals such as Wood Harris from the HBO series "The Wire" he is like a mentor to me and someone who taught me a lot about the industry not just the music side. I also got interest from D block South, and some other joint labels from Universal records and Sony records.

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? I say the mean thing now is the internet and social network, just by the click of a button or throing a video on youtube or worldstar hip hop millions of people can now listen to your music.I am a workaholic when it comes to media presence because the lifeblood in this industry for an artist. Staying relevent on youtube and other media sites magazines such as ETZ is a big plus cause now you open doors to million more fans.

What’s your management situation like? My management situation rite now is handle by Ricky Denalli and Nukelove and myself. I oversee what they put on the table. Most mangers are like when you blow up they want you but they too broke to help out a up coming artist.

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So I feel if i can take loyal individuals who have been there with me from the bottom and the grind and help change there lifes it make my heart much more happier. I been around some pretty big managers not to name a few but they wait to score of your hardwork after you are succesfull, by just booking you to me the artist best interest is not at heart with those type of situation they only come when they see money not talent and thats whats wrong with the game today.

With the advent of video websites, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? I have to say youtube definelty help put me out there. I have gotten a huge amount of love and great feedback from all over the world. Youtube has brought me to millions of fans to date and millions more to come for free, can't beat that and listenrs can get to take a peek and enjoy your music and can find out how to buy your music right then and there.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? Yes, I have interest currently from Rap A Lot Records. Which is a great honor to see that they took a interest in me knowing that the been around as a Rap label for well over 25 years now and have been a foundation in hip hop for years and to come. They are the same people that took interest in Drake early on as well. Big shout out to Vinny Idol one of the coldest producers out. He has a joint lable situation Idolize Music with Universal and the homie reached out to me, but things weren't finalized from what was discussed at that time, but homie was very impressed first hand.

Who are some of the artists you've collabed with and would like to work with? Some of the artist I have worked with are Cashin out, Smitty, Ja Rule, French Montana, Freeway, Vinny Idol from D-block, Ty Nitty from infamous Mobb Deep, Dj Khaled, Petey Pablo, Styles P, Red Rat, Serani to name a few. As far as artist I will like to work with Jay-Z which is behind the scope of an artist Hov does so much and 50 Cent.

First project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? The first project I dropped was "The World Is Yours" mixtape . This album gave me millions of downloads and over 15 million listeners a taste of my sound. I can just say that i set the bar pretty high on the first go around kind practice in the gym perfecting your craft you know. I just released my hip hop single "FIRE" the music video was directed and produced also by me. Hip hop listeners I went in the crates to with producer JHostyle to create fire for hip hop listeners ear. Showing more of my versatility we went ahead and dropped my dancehall single "Back It Up" which is pickup heavy rotation and plays on radio and in the clubs. Next for 2013 depending on some of these label deals in the working will determine whether I'll stay indie or go Major. For the fans you can expect nothing short of greatness coming soon from Tony Loko in 2013.

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nina capone

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What city do you hail from? Originally from Philly, but spent most of my teens traveling and doing music.

What made you want to do the music industry & how long have you been doing it? Wow, my father was a well known club promoter and music investor and my mother is still today, a vocalist, My entire family does music dating back to my maternal grandmother who was a successful Pianist and my paternal Great grandmother who was a well known club owner out of Newark NJ. So my home was always the place to be from rehearsals in our basements to huge cookouts with many celebrity relatives and friends, I grew up knowing nothing more. So altogether professionally I would say I entered the game in 1992 with a contract to tour the Pennsylvania Prison system at 13 years old.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? Well nowadays the hip hop scene in Philadelphia is getting crowded, its like everyone has decided they can rap, don’t get me wrong, Philly is flooded with great talent and ambitious people but we are also known for our crab in the Barrel mentality, for some reason we don’t want to see the next man get ahead so instead of Brotherly Love, we hold the title Brotherly Hate, although I must say this is slowly beginning to change.

Who and what were some of your influences? My mother was and still is my biggest influence but mainstream industry in hip hop I would have to right now JayZ, I thought out this question long and hard because I am not easily influenced and first and foremost I am a business person far as if I had to follow someone it was definitely be him, He has reached heights that no one else in our business has reached my standards and goals were increased by his success to pull off some of the things that he has thus far. Playing a behind the scenes role in the music business I learn so much first-hand that it determines my next move like chess.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene in Philly represented correctly or does it still need work? I would have to say it still needs work, Philadelphia artists are aggressive lyricist with strong personalities. This is sometimes taken the wrong way, but its what allows us to dominate and control a crowd. We are a city of riders, we stick to our clique and the script. We are dedicated and eager to get ahead yet loyal and cocky at the same time, I guess that’s our swag as some would like to call it.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? I don’t clique up, I purposely avoid affiliations but being a radio host/DJ myself I have a crew that I am affiliated with such as DJ-T Dogg who is the main DJ on my radio show “In Da Streets Radio” and DJ Colock the Panhandler and Slip N Slide DJ out of Florida who holds me down in the Dirty South always keeping me relevant.

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The music scene constantly changes, what do you do to stay current? I love this question only because my new mixtape is titled “Miss Relevant” I choose this title because I evaluate the current state of music at all times making sure my sound is always upgraded and matches what’s on the radio, not so much as a copy cat but taking that sound and recreating it around what I already have like remodeling your home every few years, I guess you can call me a hip hop lyrical designer (Smile).

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? I’ve worked with many many artist over the years but just to name a few memorable experiences I’d like to mention Sam Sneed who made the hit classic (You Better recognize) Sam became a role model/Big Brother to me while grooming me to become the best. Flip Mode Squad, Capone of CNN, J-Sile (A&R) at Def Jam Records/Engineer, DJ Tayroc of the ATL morning show and Russell Simmons Phat Farm official DJ, The Legendary Joe “ The Butcher” Nicolo Engineer/Producer and the Owner of Philadelphia’s Studio 4, Peaches and Herb, The Temptations, City High, Peddi Crakk, Montana Blak, Gille Da kid, Black Deniro, Ab Liva, Vybe Beatz, and International Recording Artist “Steph Pockets”, as well as a bunch of up and coming “Disney Channel Artist” and I am currently a ghost writer so I have to be careful with the current artist and name dropping.

What was the first mixtape you released and do you have any current projects? Being as though I know and work alongside so many producers I strayed away from the mixtape scene not realizing how important it was to promotion. So in 2005, I dropped my Official Project titled Damn Near Naked which can be found on iTunes. Since then I started the Sweet 16’s collections Vol. 1 and 2 can be found on Datpiff.com. My last mixtape, Back as the Matrix (the reinvention of Nina Capone) can also be found on Datpiff.com. My new mixtape Miss Relevant and my new R&B Album titled “Audio Porn” to be released nationally this year.

What do your listeners expect from you? Always something different. I’m all about the makeover’s, New year, new look new sounds.

What are some of the things you aspire to do? I just really want to write the next triple platinum hit rather performed by me or another artist. I just need that platinum record on my wall.

How can folks contact you? I can be contacted on my website at www.ninacapone.com where you can find my twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and myspace links or you can find me via my radio shows site at

www.indastreetsradio.com.

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RYK RYK

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FURY FURY

Please tell the readers, who you are, where you from and what you do? Im Ryk Fury, I'm originally from the Pittsburgh Area , but have lived in Atlanta and parts of Cali. I'm an emcee and I dabble in production a little.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you aspire to do music? Being able to put what I'm feeling and experiencing into words, to give a listener a view from where I'm standing. To connect with people on another level and try to make sense of all this.

What's the indie music scene like you City? It seems to be growing everyday. A lot more venues to showcase your talents, open mics, Dj Battles etc. A little more saturated then I'd like, but eventually the cream rises to the top. Shouts out to everybody working to get it!

Your influences? I'm really into the lyrics, wordplay, content, cadence, emotion. Not exactly in that order.

Of course the beat has to grab you. I like tight music where everything's in the pocket. Nothing inspires GREAT music like GREAT music.

Is Hip Hop, where you're from, legitimately represented or does work still need to be done? It needs to be remedied of course, like most Indie scenes across the Globe. You got the purist and the hustlers, but even then you're still only in two different boxes. There's still innovators who love the music and make what they feel. I want to see the emcees getting more shine.

Who are some of the artists and Industry folks you're connected with? I've been rhyming for a while. Tricky Stewart (RED Zone),Steve Rollin, The Roots, Dustin Case, Mick Swagger, Young Deniro, Anonymos, Reel Soul, Dj E, Dagga Layne, Unklee Gundee, Nappy Boy, Sweatshop. Been in contact with alot of "Industry" folks throughout the years, y'all would be surprised.

Staying current in a music scene that constantly changes? Stay current is almost an oxymoron. I check

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the new music out, but at the end of the day, it's all about how the beat makes me feel. I may borrow elements of certain rappers style at times, but I have to keep the wordplay at a certain level.

What’s your management situation like? Non-existent. Had management in the past when I was with a

group. Do what I can for myself, when life allows me.

Has the advent of video websites helped or hurt your marketing and promotional efforts? A good video can only help any promotional efforts. You have millions of music lovers as well as music makers logging on everyday. One viral video, and a whole new world of opportunity opens up to you.

Do you have any deals in the works? I've got a few people I'm talking with about releasing more music.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? A lot of underground Indie artist send me songs to collab

on,right now im working with Unklee Gundee and his label . Google Ryk Fury. I have tons of music out there with different artist, and producers from all over.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? Solo would be

D.E.O.T.P VOL 1 (DopestEmceeOnThePlanet). Im currently working on music for A summer release.

I recently checked your reverbnation page, the tracks 2Day & G Code are dope, what can your listeners expect from you? Hot ISH!!! That DOPE! more conceptual, emotional then what they're feeding ya'll. I like

to take the listener on a journey with me. From the inside looking out!

What are some of your plans? I plan on running my own entertainment company within the next two years

and just continue to keep giving y'all whats missing.

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Murda

Mami

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What city are you from Mami? I am from Philadelphia, PA, but when people ask that, sometimes I usually say "Germantown Hospital" lol.

What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? Music runs in my family blood and veins for generations and I was one who endorsed the rap mc talent. Everyone else in my family sings. I have a few family members such as my uncle Reg (Messiah) who opened me up more as far as getting exposed to studios. My ex-boyfriend Quentin (Heart of the City, Allthentik Records) made me realize the struggle and seriousness of a music dream. That was when I was 13-14 yrs. of age and I'm better at what I do.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? The industry hip hop scene around where I'm from is very, very strong.

I listen to everything, not just Hip Hop. The indie. scene definitely has an effect on the youth and sometimes not in a good way. I hate to see 6-7 yrs. old walking down the street rapping Nicki (Minaj) part on that (Be My Lil Freak song) it's ridiculous, good music with a negative impact. I love the song too, but I'm grown.

Who and what were some of your influences? Some of my influences are MC Lyte, Moni Love, Queen Latifah and Lauren Hill.They were and still are bad women, but what caught my ear is that they were about respecting women and just positive energy plus message. Right now my biggest influence is Meek Mill because he is from where I am from, and when you see someone like him growing from some of the negatives people called him,

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to a heavy player in the game. Seeing that all happen in front of my eyes just gave me the push to go even harder, so shout out to Meek for setting that Dreamchasers trend.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene where you're from represented correctly or does it still need work? I think its fine to me people still getting money, it cant be represented in one way its too much different music out here. I just say they should give more opportunities and reach out to others that isn't up to their standards.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with?

My affiliation is with H.M.O F.L Records (Hold My Own, Fully Loaded) which involves DJ Fe, Mil Gees (@milticket215),Shankk (@shankkmrprez), Chubby Montega (@chubbymontega), Mada Smalls (@madasmalls1), Dom Shizz(@domshizz) and Miss Tiff(@tiffiswack) on this team I am the first Lady.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? The game does change up, but I feel like that has nothing to do with how and what type music I make. I have my own style that's going work anytime, because the music I make starts its own movement.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present? I've worked with Supa Fly face (Fly Boys), G.I The General, Raw Bucks, Buzzerbeater just to name a few. You will hear that on my mixtape coming this month titled Murda She Wrote.

What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects? I am currently working with Gus Starranko, N.H, Dadyo is about to set it off for me as well as Tiani Victoria to name a few thats current. Also I will be working with my younger cousin DJ Tizz (@djtizz), he's flaming the streets as the youngest DJ to do it.

I'm currently working on my second Mixtape called The Cartel. I've taken my music more serious than ever before. It's been almost two years. It's been going on and I'm doing very well. I also working on a project with Shankk called Killin Spree that will also be dropping soon.

What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape? Anytime I drop singles, mixtapes, albums or anything of that sort, my listeners can expect hits, original beats, fresh features, physical, mental, emotional, financial and sexual songs we all can relate to.

I'm currently working on doing music that doesn't consist of profanity all the time.They can definitely expect me to bring forth my own style. I want people to wanna sound like me, not me sounding like another artist that is already in the game, for example a female Meek Mill, there's nothing wrong with it, he's the man.In the end, I rather be known as Murda Mami.

What are some of your goals?

My goal musically is to be successful. I wanna meet the different artist in the indie music game, who have inspired me. I wanna let them know what positive effects they had on my career. I want to give back, I wanna start a movement musically, that can give people an equal opportunity to make it. I want is to be a great role model and mother to and for my son. Music is the key to success in my book.

How can folks contact you?

You guys can contact me @murdamami215 on Twitter, Alicia Murdamami Eleby on Facebook, Murda Mami on Youtube and soundcloud, also I'm featured on a couple artist mixtapes on Dat Piff under P Shaw Upper Level and D.M.D. Thanks for hanging with us. Thank you for the opportunity E.T.Z for taking the time to spread my word.

Keep checking for Murda Mami doing her thing on the streets of Philly.

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AKA

Mia Bella

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Place of birth? I was born in San Jose, ca but Ive lived everywhere.

I spent the developing years in the Valley, 209 represent! Ive lived everywhere from Hollister to Chico. So I guess you can say I'm from all over Cali.

What's yout time in the music industry and how long have you been doing music? I've been in the music industry since I was 7 years old. I was inspired to be a singer by my mother's beautiful voice, may she rest in paradise. I wrote my first song in 2nd grade according to my step dad. I was sitting in the pool outside looking at a walnut tree and I told him I was gonna make a song. All of a sudden, hearsay from my step father mind you, I busted out in song about my love for walnuts. I started rapping however right after highschool, Someone told me that my poetry, which I had constantly won awards for, was almost melodic and that I should try rapping.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? The indie Hip Hop scene in the valley depends on what kind of artist you are.

If you are the fretful, easily intimidated artist, it is cut throat and every man for himself. Me on the other hand, I think it's a pleasure to incorporate all different styles and sounds of the other fellow artists.

You never know who could be the key to the next level right? I'd also say that the indie Hip Hop scene holds sooo many undiscovered treasures that simply just dont have the "look" that sells. Its because they dont want to be "price tag artists" as I call them.

What are some of your influences? My main influences for the vocal aspect of my music is my beautiful mama italiana. My mother had a unique voice and I always worked hard to have won as well. My influences for vocals would be Christina Aguilera for tactical advancement, Rihanna and Alicia Keys for individualism. However my rap side has to go out to the only to three women of originality. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliot and Jayy Lee. All talented women with understanding in their own self worth. I strive for that daily.

In your opinion, is the urban music scene where you're from represented correctly or does it still need work? The Hip Hop scene where I'm from needs work but so does the mainstream industry.

Artists forget what real hip hop is and what it represented. Its not about "getting bitches and money" its about showing your talent and capturing the audience into your mind state.

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Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're down with? I love my F.R.B. family , the valley boys made me have to show what I have and show that I wasnt playing around. Ive worked with great producers from the U.S. like Drufio and HTbeats. My UK DJ names are alot but the more prominent one is Chris Saintsbeats McDonough .

The emcees, The Heartless Banditz. I affiliate with them closely. I feel like I'm leaving so many people out, but I have a lot of love for these ones especially.

How do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? The music scene changes constantly, so do I. Not enough though to be unrecognized. I have a signature style. A poetic justice, if you will. I'm easily recognized when it comes to music. I'm still fairly new to the self promotion scene so I'm always learning new styles and incorporating them within my own.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? I've had a ride or die partner in crime. Her name is Jayy Lee. She taught me to be an individual and when people ridicule me, it's only adding fuel to the fire to prove them wrong. In the end, the artists who ridicule me previously, now ask me for collaborations, hah.

What was the album you dropped and do you have any new projects? My first single, if you would call it that, was Becky Bad Bitch.

It was a favorite of a lot of people. I'm actually working now with some of the Bay area artists in order to make a new mixtape. It's gonna be well thought out and bring out a different , slightly untouched , side of Hip Hop. What can your listeners get from you, each time you drop an album? What is always expected of me by my listeners is originality and creativity. I always have a story to tell or a feeling to be expressed. You always feel the emotion I am trying to portray.

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What are some of the goals you want to attain? My aspirations as a musician are simple. If I ever get famous, that's cool but thats not what I am truly after. I want my messages to be heard and recognized for what they are. Art. I want to represent good causes. AIDS, breast cancer awareness, things like that and would love to start out doing performances in order to raise money for a foundation or organization.

I also want to have fun, it's an everlasting learning process. Who doesn't want to learn more about not just music but themselves?

How can folks contact you? You can find me on sites. I love soundcloud. I can be reached at soundcloud.com/correnna-allisabethrandazzo or search Nina Rozz. I can be found on twitter also! my twitter name is @NinaRozzNow

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NALA GOLD Photos by Devin Wade and Seif Productions

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Where are you from? North Philadelphia What was the deciding factor for you in wanting to get involved in music and how long have you been doing music? It has always been a secret passion of mine. I have been writing since I was in middle school, but I have been taking it seriously for about a year and a half.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? The Indie hip hop scene is huge in Philly. There are a lot of artist out here constantly grinding hard and working towards there dream Your influences? My greatest musical influence is my Brother Chiedozie (C Gutta) Orji.

I looked up to him growing up and he is a rapper as well Is Philly Hip Hop scene represented correctly as it should be or does it still need work? I'm not actually sure if there's a correct way to represent a form of art. Art is a form of expression, which means, to me, there are no rules.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? I am not directly affiliated with anyone. I am a solo artist. I do network and work with a lot of artists locally and not .

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? Well I just stay true to myself and confident in the fact that I make good music. I know that some body somewhere will always be able to relate to the songs that I make. In my opinion good music is timeless, Artists you've worked with? C. Gutta, Junior Reid, Peedi Crakk, Bree Lyrical, Chic Raw, Razor, Plus Tax, Riq Geez, Custello, Jay Reezy, Big Face Dunny, Alis Joe, young Day, Akhellies, Dirty Boi, Wis Vega, Na Nittles, Chubby Montega, No Breaks, Mardy G. Mixtapes or album you dropped and do you have any current projects? Game Time is my first mixtape and it is available for download on datpiff.com What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape? The fans can never know what to expect. Gotta keep em guessing! :-) What are some of your goals, musically? To be able to touch the world through my music. I want to live forever through my words even after I'm buried in the dirt! And to be able to make a living where I able to provide for my family!

How can folks contact you? nalagold32@gmail.com; instagram @nalagold twitter @nalagold Face book Nala lfl Gold

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Amotion

Please tell the readers, who you are, where you're from and what you do? My name is Amotion - I grew up in the Boston area but from the launch of my business Deep Flow Entertainment 12 years ago, I have lived in Baltimore, specifically in Brooklyn, down the street from the studio. I am the owner, an audio engineer, videographer, editor, radio and TV personality and run our music publishing company.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you aspire to do music? Always loved music. Brings a life out of me that silence or even talking with a silent background could never do. As far as actually making music, I was locked down at 17 in a place where they monitored our music and no hip hop was even allowed. So I started turning my poems into raps and once they let Lauryn Hill play at cleaning time and I went off! That's when I knew what was really in me and what I had to focus on when I got out.

In your city, what's the musical landscape like? Fun, creative, a place with a lot of hope and feeling of family and unity. Everyone's in the same struggle. The thing artists need to understand however, is if you're going to perform you MUST entertain. You can't get up on stage and just start cussing and walking around thinking people are going to enjoy themselves. They don't. Your homeboys can't take you out of the hood like true fans can.

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People that influence or have influenced you in the past? Tupac, Nas, Oprah, Ani Defranco, The Beatles, Russell Simons, and my musician brother.

Tell us about Deep Flow Studios? You get what you pay for (and more). Not only do we record major named artists, but many of our artists come from basement studios and small $25/ hr type studios when they're ready to step it up and become serious about their career. We have production options as the major studios that charge $75 and more an hour (multiple post production rooms & sound booths, nice live instrument set up, rehearsal space, preproduction rooms and producers and multiple talented engineers/mixmasters).

We also have promotional opportunities as we not only get the word out there on social media for the artists we work with, but we also do video production, have a TV show, live webcam, and internet radio station DeepFlowRadio.com in which artists who record here receive free rotation. Therefore, we charge in between those non-official studios and those seriously official studios to give you top quality while still keeping in mind how small some independent artists pockets are with prices starting at $50 all the way down to $35 for our loyal consistent artists.

In your opinion, is the indie music scene in B-More correctly represented by its artists or does it need to be remedied? It's represented differently depending on the crowd. We have the street/hood scene, the conscious/neo soul/ hard rock/ gospel music, religious rap, etc. It depends whose in the studio at what time, what show you're at, at what club and who the promoter is that night. So there's really no way to rate this scene. But over all, Baltimore's hood with 70% of the murders going unsolved, with the rate of murders being so tremendous over the number of population. So obviously, there is an overwhelming amount of artist speaking on this lifestyle, so over all I'm sure this is how the outside views us and it makes complete sense, Until this city cleans itself up, we will be overwhelmingly hood and that will be represented in our music over all genres.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Who aren't we connected with? That is the question...

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In a music scene that constantly changes, what do you do to stay current ? LISTEN to the artists who come through and what they want. Back in the day, they wanted as quick a session as possible, cramming as much in as possible with great quick mixes. Now, it's more common for them to take time per single (as singles are where the money is not albums these days) wanting really creative mixes and making sure each single is where it needs to be. With video, it's less of the clean look and more of the artistic/film/DSLR look. Our radio station is forever changing.

Sometimes the listeners vote hard rap songs their favorite, sometimes pop, so that changes monthly, due to the listening base. For Deep Flow, it's always about staying a step ahead, so by the time others catch up, we've already added that next step, opportunity that artists can't find elsewhere.

What’s your management situation like? I hate managing! Managing is babysitting! But managing is the only thing in this world I am very good at, but refuse to do. I managed an artist back in the day until the feeling of babysitting dealing with this artist became overwhelming and not worth it. I tried again recently managed an artist, who I had been working with since she was 12. SHe turned 18 and said she was ready to go solo and do this for real. Immediately placing her song in a movie, I had three of her singles on multiple stations, her first album out and on sale online and in stores, music video for her first single, dozens of shows and radio interviews and featured on TV for each of those. She has a lot of fans on Facebook and her name is known well.

But before her first year even ended she lost motivation and it seemed thought this was how the industry really works. You sit back while someone does the work for it then you 'make it'. It was a rude awakening when I told her I'm not here to motivate or babysit. I'm sitting back until you do something for yourself. Almost a year later, still waiting. So no more money off the back end which is what a management contract is. Therefore, I agent. I charge for PR work, etc and get paid by the gig, as well as help our in-studio artists for free on so many things that aren't time consuming for me but help them a lot.

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, helped or hurt your promotional efforts?

Helped. Since I produce a TV show on cable and a website of TV shows that gets a lot of views deepflowtv.com (with blip.tv) so I pretty much suck at Youtube. Converting to maintain best quality for youtube - I suck. Promoting youtube - I suck. But it's something you have to have because even though we only have about 100,000 views which only amounts to a few hundred fans which is much less than our cable and internet TV series, every fan is important so every extra promotional outlet helps.

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Do you have any deals in the works? I've had some incredible deals over the years to when it came down to signing on the dotted line I did and wasn't given what i was promised or didn't due to something not feeling right. I'm in a position of big deals right now that feel right. But I am not a talker I am a doer. So if you want to know, join the email list on deepflowstudios.com and like the facebook page facebook.com/deepflowstudios and you will be in the inner circle everytime we announce a new deal when the ink has dried.

What are some of your plans, short term and long term? My biggest long term goal is actually to have a dog rescue, mostly pitbulls. Ghandi said The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. So our nation needs a LOT of work and when society learns how to treat animals better, they learn how to treat each other better.

There is so much I can say on this subject and I want to stop the problem at the source but that will be a forever work in progress so in the meantime I want to have a place for them to be safe, free and loved. AS far as the music business I'm a walker not a talker, so walk with me by staying in touch on the sites. But everyone says they want me to start a label which I do not they don't understand the work and money and risk involved). So just know if I ever start a label that will be the one thing I fell into peer pressure for (lol) everything else is from my heart.

How can the listeners contact you? DeepFLowstudios.com. Phone number, email, all social network links are on there or come by the studio in Brooklyn borough of B-more. If you want to follow me personally I am also on instagram @deepflowstudios and have my own facebook page @amotion dfs.

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I'm a native new yorker who stomps the concrete jungle daily branding them streets. [laughs] I'm a brand strategist.

Tell us how you got started in being a publicist and brand marketing? My career started when I accepted the position of salesperson at Wu Wear, the small fashion boutique store owned by the infamous rap group WUTANG CLAN. During that time I was studying fashion buying and merchandising at the college of Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) but soon left with an associates degree to pursue my career in the music industry. During my tenor years at Wu Wear I made it my business to network with other professionals in the field and learn there strategies in developing a successful brand to adapt to mines.

I was inspired by the reaction of the CEO's and Brand Strategist when I voiced my opinions on certain projects, the Wu Wear brand was developing. After seeing the finished product of each development and seeing the vision manifested, I knew right there and then, I wanted to continue bridging brands together on a more upscale level.

What's that industry like in and how did you come in contact with WU Wear? The industry I'm in is very competitive as in many, but with branding, you have to know how to dynamically strategize a product so it becomes a successful brand, that people will recognize for years to come. While studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology, I came across a Help Wanted Ad in the job community board. The job was simple, they were looking for a sales rep to work in their small boutique in Staten Island. Not much was said just that the store belonged to a famous rap group WUTANG CLAN which at the time I had no knowledge of who they were! that was the interesting part.

Your company has been mentioned in several magazines , Forbes, CNN Money, Time Magazine, etc, did seeing those publications fuel your sense of purpose in this field? Yes, very much so.. seeing the accomplishment through high profiled print, proved we had something worth talking about and knowing that our hustle was looked at in a professional way.

Briefly tell us about a typical day for you? Honestly sometimes I don't even know when my day begins or ends, as its a constant hustle to stay on top of things, and that's where I have to learn to find balance!

But a typical day for me, would be developing marketing plans for the clients as my firm is hired to strategically monitor their upcoming projects, hold various conference meetings with global brand managers and artist; which can become quite overwhelming, but my secret to staying alert is the infamous BUSTELLO, had to capitalize that for you [laughs], as a daily run to the local Starbucks, would take precious times off my daily calendar. Real Talk! . In digital language I'm very socially influent in twitter talk and instagrammin' ha! #hashtaggin is my lethal weapon to this game.. must brand everything! So basically a typical day for me is Hustlin every modern aspect of business duties.

In your opinion, from a publicist, branding & marketing perspective, are you seeing different ideas being incorporated within the music game or are some of the same old marketing tactics still being employed? The game has drastically changed. Before endorsement deals and collaborations were elite, it felt like there was a criteria that you had to live up to, now the brand marketers are hip to the entertainers and are carefully monitoring the tastemakers, which have become very influential in promoting corporate brands. Before artist used direct marketing, radio, print ads, merchandising and shows to market their album, now they reach out to corporate brands to sponsor their projects (i.e.. lil wayne- mountain dew)..

I still know a few publicist who do press junkets, but now the media is so involved with the artist personally, that it takes away from them being "untouchable".. Its like they have joined forces in brainstorming

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to make a splash with their projects. In my opinion Social Media has taken away from the perspective of creating a PR proposal and press calendar which Twitter & Instagram have total control of, especially in being the new distribution hub for releasing press releases and tear sheets. And I just name those two but there are so many social networks.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? I'm connected with a few high profiled celebrities, as you know WUTANG Clan, platinum producers Dame Grease, professional skateboarder Kareem Campbell and a few influential execs and presidents from big corporations, but I'm not one to throw names around. Let's just say I've been in this industry 20 years, and have worked and dealt with interesting people professionally.

What do you do to stay current in a field that constantly changes and is it difficult for African American women to flourish in this business? I create my own lane. position myself where one must catch up to me, I've been told many times, that I'm hard to keep up with, I switch it up on the daily. When you create your own lane, your welcoming people to follow you and share new ideas that can become the new "it" thing. I 'pitch' on the daily basis to corporate america and third world countries. While many are asleep, Im holding satellite meetings on Google Chat. I don't read the typical music entertainment bible's .

But on a good day you can catch me reading Adweekly, INC. and the Robb Report. I'm also subscribed to numerous branding blogs. I try to stay ahead of the "rap race" by entering forbidden territories, especially to Women in general.

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your efforts? I would have to say, the video hubs have helped my efforts, for so many reasons, for example whenever I'm pitching a client, the companies automatically are interested in knowing the artist stats on you tube and if they're relevant. And fortunately I can say here's the youtube link, which gives them a full cup of the artist viral activity.

Do the artists you work with have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? The artist I'm working with now have endorsement and celebrity colloboration deals on the table, which I'm not in liberty to discuss as of yet. One of my clients is in the process of getting a productional deal and the producer which is Dame Grease is scoring a film, at this present moment.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? Some of the artist Ive worked with have been various members of the WUTANG Clan, still working with Dame Grease, Raekwon, skateboarder kareem Campbell, in talks with NORE, . Worked with Pete Rock, Tye Fyffe, Half A Mil (rip) Big Pun (rip), Serius Jones, DJ Blazita, just to name a few. One person I would love to work with is Jay Z. his work ethic is impeccable! Basically I would work with the hungry artist out there, because in branding there's so much room for new ideas and creativeness that new artist crave for to manifest. The artist with the most fire in their eyes, that's who I would love to work with!

What was the first project you were a part of and is there anything new on the horizon? Aside from branding Wu Wear and making it global, I would have to say The Wu Tang Kung Fu video series, was my first project and after that I participating in many more. Right now I am so blessed, I must thank god everyday, because I have a couple of collaborated projects and endorsement deals that have been in the works for 6 months already. Not sure if you know but some projects take close to a year, before you see the finished product, while people think Im just twittering away, I'm busy approving blueprints and solidifying new projects.

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What can your clients expect from you? My clients can expect from me quality service on or before the stated deadline, with loyal dedication to every project to successfully meet its goal. The key to a successful brand is a stable foundation, and that's guaranteed!

What are some of your plans, short term and long term? I plan to take a long vacation! [laughs] I have a goal, and that's to successfully brand my firm to the point where you hear the name and you already know your going to get the results needed to be a success. I want to create a firm foundation for my Philanthropy work which I just started a month ago. But basically I plan to live happy and healthy with my family..the key to being successful is one word BALANCE. my motto Life, Loyalty, Love, How can the potentials contact you? I can be reached through my website. http:// www.cynaminjonesbranding.com/ and please follow me on twitter @cynaminjones and instagram | cynaminjonesbranded But I must warn you, your on your own! ha...

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Introducing

Niz

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I was born in Philadelphia, PA but I was raised in Fayetteville, NC and I make music. Hip-Hop or rap or whatever you want to call it…I make music.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music?

I was in high school selling my own mixtapes at 15 years old getting major love. It was the lunchtime ciphers that really inspired me and made me want to go harder with it. Before that I was 12 years old just freestyling and making cassette tapes in my hood. So you can say all together about 17 years.

What's the indie music scene like in your city? There’s a ton of artists and not too many venues or outlets to be honest and radio follows industry standards so it’s hard to break the surface. I’m an underdog, so when a bone is thrown I bite.

Your musical influences? There are too many, I love different music and different genres. I’m what happens when you give a fan a mic.

Tell us about a typical music day for you? I have a regular day like you. I may write verses while waiting in line at Wal-Mart doing a return on my Android….

In your opinion, is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does that need to be remedied and why?

Every artist represents in their own way…So who am I to really judge that…Respectfully.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? I haven’t collaborated with any industry artists yet, but if you ask me some in the streets artists I can name a few.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? It’s in the works…still negotiating.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? Currently I working with Dotcomm from Philly and I would work with anyone who is about that business.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? I have dropped a few underground projects on Datpiff.com, but my first official project is in the works as we speak…

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? My listeners can expect that North Carolina hunger. They can expect me to deliver the truth the real. Online you can find my music: www.twitter.com/niz910 www.youtube.com/niz910 http://www.datpiff.com/profile/Niz910 What are some of your plans, short term and long term?

Short term plans are simply just continuing the grind hard and create that buzz for myself as an artist.

Long term I want to own my own record label and manage my own artists and the only way to be great at that is to do it first…Lets get this paper.

How can the listeners contact you? They can simply hit me on twitter @NIZ910 or email me at NizDaFlamethrower@gmail.com

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? You have to just keep evolving as an artist, staying true to yourself, make wise decisions and always be connected to your fan base.

What’s your management situation like? My management is StarBrite Ent/Aristocrat Music.

With the advent of video sites like YouTube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? I would say they have helped me make my music accessible to people outside of my city and any promotion is good promotion.

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Who Is

Mike Lee?

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I'm from Baltimore, MD. I emcee, produce, engineer and ghost-write.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? I first began doing music only because I wanted to out-do my older brother Rob, who was a rapper at the time, in a rap battle during Christmas time in front of the whole family.

But, once I really got into the art form, I just wanted all the rappers who Inspired me to hear my rhymes and see that I belonged! That was pretty much the icing on the cake if you will. I been spitting since 11 and I'm 25 now; So, technically for 14 years I've been at it.

What's the indie music scene like in your city? It's like an untapped gold mine.

Your musical influences? Nas, Jay-Z, The Lox, Wu-Tang, Biggie, 2-PAC; you know, the usual suspects!

Tell us about a typical music day for you? We'll, before I record I'll either play a game first (playstation, monopoly, etc) or watch SportsCenter with various instrumentals playing in the background. Between breaks Is usually the time where I check my emails and respond back to them.

In your opinion, is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does that need to be remedied and why? No, I think my city is misrepresented when it comes to the Indie music scene that needs to be remedied because the city of Baltimore has way too much talent to keep getting overlooked. The music industry is like this huge wall of art and my city is just tying to tap our paint brush on the canvas.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Lol, I'd rather not say.

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? Stay true to yourself because you won't know another person better in life. I figure that if you establish a hard core fan base in the beginning then you won't have to flip-flop between what you wanna create and what is commercially viable at the time. You can just be and do you at all times! What better freedom to have?

What’s your management situation like? Currently seeking a qualified individual to help elevate my career to the next level.

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With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? I believe those outlets can only help with anyone's promotional efforts because they're providing avenues towards gaining exposure. They help with creating awareness for your movement which in essence is the foundation of promotion.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? I wouldn't say anything serious at the moment, no.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? See, most of the time I just do my own thing. I rarely do any features (If ever), so I won't even bother mentioning who I worked with; you might be like "who dat" and those people might not even be still doing music today anyway. However, I would like to work with Nas, Kendrick, Hov, Kanye, Andre3000, Prince, Patti Labelle, The Softones, Floetry, Coldplay, and Pink Floyd just to name a few. I would also love to do a joint album with Premo, Alchemist,Araab Muzik, and 9th wonder.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? The first project I ever dropped was this mixtape called "TheEscape", which was released under the alias name "Costello". Currently, I'm working on a project entitled "Tears of Noise", which dropped on 3/27/13.

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? They can expect creativity and experimentation with my music. They can also find my music on my website: (www.Aesthetikreations.com). Also, on blogs such as "The Sermon's Domain, "Respect This Fresh", "Dope Future", "DrankandDank", "Revolt Radio", "Diverse Hip-Hop", and many more.

I like to thank all of them (even those unmentioned)for their continuous support. I appreciate all love and support.

What are some of your plans, short term and long term? My short term goals are simply to just keep growing my fan base and generating attention around my brand; I'm currently focused on building relationships and branding right now. In the long run, I'd like to help play a key role in helping to bring the indie scene in my city to National prominence. I would also like to have me and my family financially set for life.

How can the listeners contact you? They can hit me up either on twitter @MikeLeeAKE, my email MikeLee@Aesthetikreations.com, or on my business phone which is (410) 701-0332

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40

Ashley Jones 41

Please tell the readers, who you are, where you

Honestly i just go with the flow, i do

from and what you do?

everything from alternative to reggae to hip

I'm Ashley Jones. I am a singer/writer/

hop & even some trance/techno. So i just

producer

get myself in the zone when in the studio.

representing

the

Camden/

Philadelphia area. I play guitar, keys, percussion & bass.

In your opinion, does the indie music scene where

you're

from,

represent

female

Tell us, what was the "it" that made you

performers with open arms or does that part of

want to do music?

it need to be remedied?

Music runs in my blood. My grandmother

In my opinion it does make it tougher being

was a singer/drummer in a band back in the

an indie female in this area, but it'll never

1940s. My grandfather owned a instrument

stop me from doing what I love to do.

repair shop for years. My brother is a musician & many of my cousins & uncles as

Is being an indie artist something that has

well. The way i see it, music chose me, and

helped you or hurt you, in terms of marketing,

the aspiration is just in me.

promoting and selling your music?

It's a win/lose. It's nice to receive the What's the indie music scene like in your

royalties & rights to your songs but as far as

city?

promotion goes, you need fans that are

It is tough, as it is in many cities, but

willing to spread your music since there is no

networking & technology these days gives

record company to do it for you.

the indie artist countless opportunities. You just have to be willing to give it your all.

Your influences and has anyone compared you to any artists that are out right now? My influences range from artists like Billie Holiday & Frank Sinatra to more modern artists like India Arie & Musiq Soulchild. I have heard that i sound like a more modern &

edgy

Norah

Jones.

I found you on ReverbNation, I love your music, style and your voice especially, when you're in the studio recording, is there a certain feel/mood you want in your musical style and

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How have the listeners and fans of your music,

Thanks

to

my fans in Italy especially!

received you?

I've gotten very good feedback. I'd like to think

Do you have any recording deals in the works

that they receive me as a REAL artist who writes

and would you sign a recording deal with the

about REAL things. Because that is exactly who

music playing surface being so level?

I am.

I am working on getting signed but i want to make sure it is a fair & respectable deal

Who are some of the artists and industry folks

before

i

dive

in

head

first.

you're connected with?

I've worked with Grammy winning Producer

Who are some of the artists you've worked

Bobby Eli & I've done shows for Grammy

withand would like to work with? I would like to

nominated producer David Ivory (he helped

work with someone like India Arie, who is down

The Roots get their name in the game).

to earth and respects the soul aspect of music,

Another producer I've worked with is Rob

which to me is everything.

Federici out of Jersey, he has had many billboard hits as well. And I have been

Who are some of the artists you've worked with

privileged to have met and played with some of

and would like to work with?

the most talented musicians in my area such as

I would like to work with someone like India

Rick Tate (toured with Jill Scott & The Roots),

Arie, who is down to earth and respects the soul

and my guitarist Bobby Brown.

aspect of music, which to me is everything.

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes?

What was the first project you dropped and do

I do my research , listen to the radio, there are so many different audiences to market to nowadays. So i try to stay up to date in all genres.

I released a self titled album "ashley jones"

you have anything ready to be released? which is available for download on iTunes, Rhapsody, CDBaby & Amazon music store. I am working on releasing my 2nd album very soon!!

What’s your management situation like?

I am managed by BGR LLC Music

What can your listeners expect from you and

management.

where we find your music?

They can expect a real artist who varies in

With the advent of video sites like Youtube,

genres and i write very relatable songs. Check

Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your

me out @ ashleyjonesproject.com

marketing and promotional efforts? Helped for sure!

I

did

an

underground

radio/

videointerview @cellarsessions.com and my

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What are some of your plans, short term and long term?

For now, I am working on recording and producing ALL of my own songs. As far as long term plans go, let's face it we can never plan out our future for sure, it just happens no matter how many plans you make. So I am going to continue to put all my energy into my passion in music and see where the road leads me!

How can folks reach out to you?

Fans can contact me through my website www.ashleyjonesproject.com.

Thanks for spending some time with us, we really appreciate it.

Thanks for having me!

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Next To Blow...

A.el 45

Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do?

Tell us what made you want to express through entertainment and how long have you been involved in it?

What's the indie music like in your city and is it accurately represented or does that need to be straightened out and why, in your opinion?

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with in your journey?

What do you do to stay current in an entertainment industry that constantly changes?

Tell us about The Writerz Rumble and how you got involved with that?

With technology being what it is today have video websites helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why?

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Your influences?

In terms of the music, do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works?

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released?

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music?

Short term and long term plans?

How can the listeners and supporters contact you?

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I'm influenced by all the same greats that have inspired the greats before me--A.el

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KRU RU

THAT D

49

UJAY

DUDE KRU

50

Where you from? The Greater Philadelphia Area (Collegeville, PA) What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? I've always been fond of entertaining a crowd in general from as early as 6 to 7 years of age. It was destined to happen, lol What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? Where I'm from....the Philadelphia Area is very potent right now actually. The talent in and outside of the city is amazing. Some of the hungriest artists are from this city, Period. Certain artists like Meek Mill have recently started to pave another direction for musicians from this city, and getting the proper attention as deserved.

Who and what were some of your influences? The early to late 90's hip hop was pretty influencing. I've always been a huge fan of artists such as The Roots, Big L, BlackStar(Mos Def X Talib Kweli), EPMD, etc.

I use to first try to remember lyrics, and then started to write my own...eventually it became a hobby and something I really enjoyed doing.

current and involve myself with the sound of hip hop today, it's always a challenge in some way!

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, past and present? A lot of solo work; but we have teamed up with of course members that I work with from Fam First Ent., Mr.I'm So Different, etc. Worked with New Jersey's own Rich Quick, and a couple other problems from the Philadelphia Area - Nico the Beast & Mikey Conway, etc.

Mixtapes, album you dropped and do you have any current projects? Yes..the first actual project we've released was called "Critical Breakdown"; but we've currently released one of the most highly anticipated mixtapes of 2012 "PrepAIRED" Hosted by DJ V-Roc. (Both Are Available on Datpiff.com) What can your listeners expect from you?

My job on a track is to "entertain" the listener.

I feel as if the music I write and we create..does that. When I hear I beat that I like, I know, the producer knows, etc, and we go in..that's it. I love making music that people love to hear!

In your opinion, is the indie Hip Hop scene represented correctly or does it still need work? It will always "still need work", especially as the years pass. Hip Hop, and the industry itself has become incredibly greedy.

I guess it's the nature of it all though..right?

What are some of your goals?

Well my ultimate goal is to do just that..."entertain" the fans. Of course I do want to be successful and make a very comfortable living off of it; but who wouldn't.

As long as we're heard..I'm ok with that!

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're down with? Right now, we're still working with V-Roc Entertainment & Fam First Ent.

Contact info? thatdudekru@gmail.com www.facebook.com/krujay www.twitter.com/krujay www.youtube.com/thatdudekru www.myspace.com/krujay www.soundcloud.com/krujay www.krujay.com

As the scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? Well..I feel as if my music speaks for itself. I like to stay

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K' Diora B 52

ETZ The Magazine caught up with this Philly spitta and had a quick chit-chat. What up ma, where are you from? I'm from Philadelphia Pa What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? I alwayz wanted to get into The Music Industry EVERYSINCE MISSY Elillot & Left Eye came out, I started doing music at the age of 16.

What's the indie music scene like where you're from? There's a lot of good, upcoming talent doing there thing.

Your influences? When I was able to listen to the radio My Influence were an still is Missy Elillot/LeftEye and of course Eve. These ladies are everything from being creative, they have the looks and they're dope lyricists.

Is the Hip Hop scene in Philly fairly represented or does it need an overhaul?

Honesty, it's getting better. I guess artists are taking heed, "TEAM WORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK. Affiliations? None at The Moment.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? The only thing I can do is be myself, keep it real at all times and grind, so I know I put in the time.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present?

Prada, Mackdon and Haiti Ock What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects? I'm actully working on my first mixtape "BEAUTY&THE BEAST" coming soon in 2013.

What can your listeners expect from you? My listeners will expect different, but real. All I can give is the sounds of my pride Like I'm iRadio.

Goals? My Goal In The Music Industry is to first mark my territory in the game sell worldwide. Do the unthinkable and Meet Missy Elliot.

How can folks contact you? Email addy is Kdiorabeats@yahoo.com Instagram @Ibeezkdiora Thanks for taking some time with us peace. Peace, thanks for having me!

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DJ

Where are you from? I'm from Philly Uptown to be exact Pnb is the block I grew up on Pastorius n Bayton

What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? I always love music since I was a kid and always wanted to be part of it in some way. I been doing music since I was 13 when I got my first set of turn tables for Christmas.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? The indie Hip Hop scene in Philly has always been big people from all over the Country follow our movement from the internet. At one point in time it was the youtube era rappers freestyling on rap dvds but now it's more people making mixtapes and videos for there music and getting out through the internet on websites like Datpiff, Hiphopsince1987, and Allflamerz.

Who and what were some of your influences? My influences was definitely DJ Cosmic Kev on the come up show every friday getting my tape deck ready to record his show and getting new music. Also Dj Clue with his desert storm movement killing the mixtape game and now like DJ Drama just took the mixtape game to another level.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene where you're from represented correctly or does it still need work?

Absolutely because where ever you take Philly music people all over the Country know what it is "Street" "Hood" "Real" PHILLY.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? I'm only affiliated with the people I came up with and they all rap. Chizz, Kodak, Yeah Stunna, Dizzy, Rock, Dizzy, and Yung. Also a beat maker by the name of Rockyylikee.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? Finding new ways to reinvent my sound. Making sure I keep my name alive by putting mixtapes out. Hosting other rappers mixtapes from my city and from cities.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present? I worked with almost every Indie artist in Philly: Vodka, Quilly Millz, NH, Joey Jihad. I worked with Jahlil Beats on a mixtape called the "Paper Route

M XTRA

Vol.1". My last 2 mixtapes are 'M-Xtra Bangers Vol. 1" Hosted by Oschino And Chizz mixtape " #MyStyleAintFree.

What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects? Wow the first mixtape I worked on was with my old partner Park Ave Jimmy it was called "Hood Certified Vol. 1". I'm working "M-Xtra Bangers Vol.2 #IndustryEdition" right now and also Kodak mixtape "Now Or Never"

What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape? When you listen to my music you expect nothing less than Banger when you hear them bombs drop. I make sure anything with my stamp on it is HOT!!!!!

What are some of your goals, musically? Some of my goals musically is to take my music to the next level and run the whole mixtape game in the industry. I want major artist that's sign coming to me to host there mixtapes.

How can folks contact you? Everybody can follow me on twitter and instagram @DJMXTRA for any inquires on mixtapes hosting you can contact me through my email djmxtra@gmail.com Thanks for taking some time with us, peace. Thank you for having me.

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Where do you come from? I'm from 46st west philly (The Bricks).

What's the motivating factor for you to get into the music industry and what's your tenure? Music Is like my drug. Since I was young, I always had an interest in it, it's a motivator for me. I can enjoy a day if that's all I got, so I had to make my own. So since I was seven or

Cash

eight years old, I grew up wanting to show my skills. I've been in talent shows from 4th-9th grade, did a few fashion shows , in the midst of all that , I just looked at it as preparation for for me becoming the upcoming recording artist / model entrepreneur, songwriter, lyricist, very creative, talented young blackman from Philadelphia with a great concept, confidence, charisma, and most important ORIGINALITY. I'm just waiting for my time to blow, hands down the real reason , I want to get in the music Industry is not only for me, but more so for my mom, Mek46st, to prove to her she don't need a team to succeed, as long as she has her seeds !! Ya feel me ?

Hip Hop and music scene where you're from is it embodied by real representers? I feel like people scream PSP- Philly support philly ..but always expect to get love support attention first. So I see the potential, but hate will never allow us to unite. So as an Independent artist, I just see opportunity, I'm young and ready !

Influential people in your life, musically? It would have to be Dastreetswife Jigsista, philliesbaby Mek46st, Mr-GoHard for there distinctive Flow & Style. I Scream ''P.I.P'' to My 'Y.B'/Lil Brother Savon Traub for always keeping me on my toes so a big influnence since we met to Stay

Porter

Above All .. My sister Mz Purple just gotta make it for her.. My B.F.A Ralphylo screaming free My Bro till he come home .. big influence because he Motivate & support a nigga. Also Many Others Influence me such as West Philly Own Tone Trump, aCTOR edris Elba ,Meekmillz cassidy Butta fewgo, Bigcity, shelliano gillie da kid Raw .. a bunch of others they know cause i never to proud to say ...

Your musical affiliates and how do you stay current? Cash Porter Is affiliated with many .. #TeamWinnin a upcoming group consist of Mek46st, Mz Purple, he is president of that. The OFFICIAL CEO Of M.2.T.M (TEAM MARRIED 2 THE MONEY ). I show love and give respectto a lot of people throughout Philly, so affiliations from West, South, North Philly, Southwest, Northeast, Uptown, Germentown, all over quick names bdot Holla,dj Pooh Geez, #teamnosleep BoubANGA Shelliano and big homie, the cooperation Too Much Raw, Richmindset TV.. and Youtube ahahaha. I see scene constantly changes, On staying current I keep my originality.

Da Prince Of Philly

Artists you've worked with? Mz Purple , Mek46st, Ricky, Mir Stackz, JusMoney double AA, Skateboard SAY, Mr Go Hard, Weezy, BDot holla, P Da Ghost ,

What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects? I HAVE ALOT OF THINGS COMING FOR 2013!!!.

You can find my mixtape on Reverbnation Under Cash Porter "More Then 15 minutes of Fame !!!

What can your listeners expect from you? Some real hot original music, verse collaboration, it doesn't matter.

What are some of your goals, musically? I want to get big enouhg to br the PRINCE OF PHILLY respect as an artist, but known for doing it for my Mom and the youth.

How can folks contact you? Bookings for anything ..Feel free to e-mail me, Cash Porter at CashDpop@yahoo.com.

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The brand new album from...

Mixed and mastered by E. Smitty of Sound Alive Studios

Coming Spring 2013

DajaVu 57

What geographical location do you come from? I’m from the Westside of Philadelphia What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? I wanted to get into the music industry because as a child music always spoke to me and I am very passionate about what I love and music was something I had falling in love with at a young age. I been wanting to rap since I was eight been writing since ten and been recording for an year What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? I don’t really have a sound don’t really want to be tilted under one genre I pretty much listen to the beat and just flow off of how the beat sound.

Who and what were some of your influences? Two of my influences are my little sisters Jada and Amaira. They always push and push me to keep going even when I wanted to give up. Another influence I have is a producer from Philly that goes by the name, 808Ace. He’s always there for me and my music and he helps me a lot. Celebrity-wise there’s Lil Wayne, he’s my favorite rapper I love his style and all his crazy metaphors. There’s also Drake, Young Jezzy, Nicki Minaj, and T.I Is Hip Hop in Philly pretending or is it accurately presented by its participants in your city? I believe the Hip Hop scene is represented correctly. Today everybody IS doing what they have to do, to get to where they have to be and that’s what a lot of this music is about. Being on top, living life and having fun, which is also what this music is about.

Who are some of the folks, you're down with? Mal Gates, owner of Heat Factory Studio, GMR, a rap music group here in Philly and 808Ace, a producer here in Philly.

How do you progress in a music scene that constantly changes? I’m just being myself. I just don’t want to drop one song or one album and have everyone like what they're hearing on that project alone, because the music changes. I change my music and people are saying, I like the old her. I was never the one to try to fit in.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? I have worked with a couple of artists here in Philly such as Dukes, Brick Lord King, Tommy Stars, Nise Odic, Iam Future, Reese Rel and Razor.

What was the initial project you released and do you have any current projects? My first mixtape is my current project. I just recently dropped my first single with is called 2 Ni**as which can be found on soundcloud.com search DajaHalley (no space) and I'm working on getting together performances as we speak.

What can your listeners expect from you, musically? My listeners can expect music that will get them out they seat that will make them want to party and want to hear more.

Musical aspirations? Some of my goals musically are to get on a track with Lil Wayne, T.I., Young Jezzy, Drake and Nicki Minaj, but my biggest goal is to just make history.

How can folks contact you? I can be contacted at dajavubookings@gmail.com, Instagram: yougot_daja_vu, Twitter: @yougot_daja_vu, Facebook: Yougot DajaVu

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Teisha Marie

The Girl From Nowhere

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I'm from "nowhere" because I grew up as a military kid but I've been in the DC area (Maryland to be exact) the longest.

Tell us, how long have you been doing music and what made you want to do music? I've been doing music all of my life. From my days of using a Muppet babies Casio keyboard and a Fischer-Price tape recorder to playing violin/piano and singing,writing and producing, music has always been my first language and a vital outlet. Self-expression/preservation lead me to music.

What's the music scene like in your city? It's very diverse in DC. With DC being the Nation's capital, there are a lot of international artists in the area, along with go-go, hip-hop, reggae, classical, rock and soul. You name it, we have it. The talent in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia area) often goes unrecognized.

Your musical influences range from Stevie Wonder to Nancy Wilson to Donnie Hathaway to name a few, how much of an impact has that had on the way you deliver your music to your audience? Mr. Wonder, Ms. Wilson and Mr. Hathaway are consumate performers. I'm on YouTube all the time studying their performances. The way they would tell stories on stage through their music has made me strive to make sure people get my message when I'm on stage. I consider my music to be soul-based and soul is all about being transparent.

Can you briefly tell us what a typical music day is for you? This is going to sound funny, but it works for me - I lay in bed and review tracks for about an hour. Then, I get ready for the day. First, vocal warm-up. Then, I make song demos on my laptop. I spend about 3 hours on demos and then head to the studio either to mix or work with a producer. In the car (I spend a lot of time there), I'll use my cell phone to catch ideas. Music is on my mind 24-7.

In your opinion, is the music in your city properly represented or is it need of repair and why?

The music in my city isn't represented correctly at all. For instance, Wale has tried to get gogo represented on a national level but many before him attempted to have go-go recognized also. Chuck Brown's style of go-go was jazz/funk-based and the newer go-go bands are quite different from that style. I say that to say, there is so much good music here

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But no matter the genre or time period, what lacks in DC is unity - that goes for fans and artists. If artists supported each other more, I think our music would be recognized more. The same goes for fans - give love at home first before spreading it around the world.

If you can tell us, who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Steve McKie (Philly producer - Bilal, Jill Scott, Kindred the Family Soul) is a distant cousin of mine.

Kenny Wesley, Khadijah "Moon" Ali-Coleman, and Deborah Bond are some of my many artist friends.

Is it difficult staying current in a music scene that constantly changes? My motto is, "To thine ownself be true." If 30-second songs become the next trend, I'll still make my 3:30 or 6:15 second songs. I look at music trends like clothes, skinny jeans may work for one but not for another.

What’s your management situation like? I am self-managed.

With the advent of video websites, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why?

Video websites have done nothing but help me promote my music. I can post up music videos, behind-the-scenes moments, new music and live performances. The internet is a powerful tool because it allows me access to places I may not otherwise be able to get to right away.

You never know who's watching. I have connected with people in Australia, Japan, Spain, Russia, Amsterdam, Paris, the UK and look forward to connecting with many more!

Are there any recording, productions or label deals on the horizon? None as of yet, but I am open to possibilities.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? Ahmed Sirour is one of the artists that I've worked with the most. I would love to work with Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, KING, Robert Glasper, Teedra Moses, Ed Motta, Peter Hadar, Esperanza Spalding, Miguel, Missy Elliot ... you don't have enough space for my full response!!!

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"I've been doing music all of my life... Self-expression and preservation lead me to music"--Tiesha Marie I love your music, songs like "Temporary", "Economics" and "Txt Msg" (I liked the video as well) speak on different topics. With the song "Awaken", you seem to speak to relationships or the prospect of being in one, is that something you did by design, in terms of all your music? I just write from experience. I tend to think A LOT. So, I'm always observing people (myself included) and how we interact with each other and how changes in life affect us. In my opinion, real life is the best topic. I've been scared, happy, shy, bold, "in love"/"out of love", wanted love, had my heartbroken, and so on and so on. So, I write about what I've gone through and hope my music encourages someone else.

What can your listeners expect from you and where do we find your music? Listeners can expect GOOD ear candy with bits of my experiences and philosophies mixed in. You can find my first two projects, Addicted to Life - the EP and Addicted to Life - The LP on CDBaby, iTunes, Amazon, Bandcamp, and anywhere else you like to buy music online. If you live in Atlanta, you can buy my music at Moods Music in Little Five Points.

Plans, short term and long term? Short-term - The release of my sophomore cd,The Girl from Nowhere - coming June 2013 Long term - Tours, traveling, collaborations, a children's book, more acting and whatever else God has in store. Stay tuned!

How can the listeners contact you? My website www.teishamarie.com is currently being revamped, but listeners can still connect with me on Facebook (Teisha Marie), Twitter (@TeishaMarie) , Instagram (TeishaMarieSing) and at Reverbnation (Teisha Marie).

Thanks for spending some time with us.... Peace. Thank you, I had fun! Peace..

Photography by Ajani Truth and Singersroom.com

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Where you from? Albany N.Y (Living in Philly for past 4 years) What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? My cousin (who I was close to) would go to the studio to record and I would tag along and I was fascinated by the whole environment. This was around 2005. I immediately began to write my own material which led to me purchasing recording equipment and began teaching myself how to record & mix and I've been going hard every since. Then I made my first beat in 2009 and never looked back.

What's the indie music scene like where you're from? It seems to be pretty good right now. I see a lot of artists really going hard to make a mark in the game.

Your influences? Jay-Z is one of my biggest influences. Just because of the fact that he came from nothing but now sits in a position where...it just shows it's NO LIMITS and dude is REALLY nice on the mic. Jadakiss is another lyrical assassin, Ryan Leslie who is a musical genius and single handedly made me wanna make beats (Youtube video "Ryan Leslie makes Addiction") I'm influenced by so so many things and people it would be too many to list.

The music scene constantly changes, how do you stay current? I listen to what's going on, but mainly, I just do me. I'm comfortable making the music I make and people are starting to gravitate towards what we are doing, so maybe I will be the one to usher in the next change on the music scene.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? Davie Don't Exist, Mike Voss (106 & Park freestyle champ), Hotshot Shakur, my team of course, Front Page, it's a pretty short list right now, but I'm just getting started.

What was the first mix tape you dropped ? My first mixtape was "Best Kept Secret" in 2008.

(Get it on datpiff.com) What can your listeners expect from you?

Creativity. I like to keep certain elements in the classic hip hop realm but definitely push the envelope. Good stories, witty lines, quality productions.

What are some of your goals, musically?

To become a mogul. Leave a legacy. Specialist.

Front Page Entertainment.

How can folks get in contact you? www.specialistmusic.webs.com

In your opinion, is the music scene where you're from still need work? I feel like there is always room for improvement in anything. That's why as long as we continue to network and build... This thing will continue to grow.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? TEAM FRONT PAGE is my team. We are affiliated with hip hop. We open to network and collab etc. We just getting our feet wet in the game so get at us.

http://www.facebook.com/robhooks3 twitter.com/Specialist215 specialist.daartist@yahoo.com Thanks for being here. No doubt, peace.

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? My name is M.A.S. I represent Lights' Out Entertainment. Born & raised in Philadelphia, PA. I'm a hip-hop (rap) artist, and striving businessman.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? Music has always been apart of me.My dad was a DJ so I was always around music. Mostly hip-hop.I started writing pretty late in the game. I was 21. What made me pursue it as a career or life style was the first time I step on a stage to perform. It felt like I belonged there.

What's the indie music scene like in Philly? Lol! The indie scene in Philly is crazy for both good & bad reasons. It's highly competitive, dog eat dog, but it makes you better. There aren't many opportunities for us to blow locally. I honestly believe that we have the best underground/indie scene with maybe the exception of New York. Philly has some real spitters, singers, producers,comedians etc. We got it all here.

Your musical influences? My influences range from Russell Simmons to Philly's own Neef Buck. I want to be respected as both an artist and a businessman, so I have a lot of work ahead of me.... lol. My major influence is my city. Whether they love me or hate me (I'm still a true fan of the craft), so when I'm performing at a show and I see somebody doing there thing it influences me to go that much harder. Makes me want to step my game up.

Tell us about a typical music day for you? A typical day is me being on social media whether it's facebook,twitter etc. to see what's going on, to build new relationships thru networking. Next I'll go thru a few beats to see what I can come up with.

Then most likely I'll talk to my brother Knowledge to go over the plans we have for the upcoming week, month or whatever, and my day ends with any unfinished features I might have to complete.

Is Hip Hop, in particular, correctly represented in your city? I don't believe that it is. It's getting better but the local radio stations don't really give us the chance to show them what we have to offer. I listen to local artists music in my car. I have their music in my phone, and I feel that we can compete with anything the industry has to offer. I do believe that we do a great job representing ourselves. We grind hard in Philly.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Not many.... lol. Larry Larr used to host an open mic called Industry Tuesdays.

A lot of what I am now is from that event. I've met a few A&R's over the years to review my music. As far as Industry I can't say I know people. If I did the interview would be completely different.

How do you stay in people's mind, in a music scene that constantly changes? I just keep my ear to the street, and my eyes on twitter & facebook.

Alot of what going on in hip-hop right now I'm not really feeling, but everything is a learning experience.

What’s your management situation like? Me, Myself, & M.A.S.... lol. I don't have a manager right now. I kind of manage things for me & my team. If I had to give anyone that title it would be Keith Lamar.

He helps me with alot of the decisions I make regarding our future.

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With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? Those kinds of sites help out alot. My homie B. West was telling me people want a visual. It's cool to hear some hot bars & some good music, but they want to see who it's coming from. That's great for me & my team because we are regular people that just happen to rap. When people can see that, it makes the music that much more believable. They can identify with what we're doing & saying.

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? My listeners can expect real honest, hard hitting lyrics that they can relate to and vibe off of. The fact that I do this for them (people like myself). I do music not because of the tracks potential to go platinum. From the heart for the everyday person to vibe to. You can find our music... http://www.reverbnation.com/ lightsoutentertainment http://www.reverbnation.com/knowledgelo

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? No.. Not at this time, but that's the goal.

http://www.soundcloud.com/m-a-s-lo http://www.soundcloud.com/phillyknowledge

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? I've worked with a few local artists like: Duece D & Bomberman of Datboynyce Ent. Keywest, Diioia Beats, Imahj Beatz, Montana Blak,B. West & Enyl Ot Laer just to name a few. On a local level I'd want to work with Dell P, Sandman, Reed Dollas, Housewife, Neef Buck, Gullie really all the artist that I've looked up to and rocked the same stage with. As far as industry, Nas, Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Jay Z, Lupe, Luda, Trick Daddy.. I mean it's a long list, but out of respect What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? Wow! The first project ever was Best Of A Stranger 1 back in 2006 I believe. I think we pushed like 25 - 50 hard copies.... lol. I recently just threw away the left over hard copies. I was such a novice. I'm working on a few projects right now. A joint project with my brother Knowledge called "Brothers Keeper", my brothers' solo album titled "Knowledge Iz Power" that's coming soon & my first solo album (No title yet).2013 should be a productive year.

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http://www.youtube.com/lightsoutent21 http://www.youtube.com/knowledgelo Short term and long term agenda? My short term plans are to be a recognized artist in my city & to start building my buzz in other cities (WE can rule the world later.... lol). Long term is to get a distribution deal. To be respected by my fellow artist & businessman alike. To be respected in my field.

I don't want much.

How can the listeners contact you? They can find me and my team at: http://www.facebook.com/ lightsoutent http://www.twitter.com/m_a_s_lo http://www.twitter.com/lightsoutent Thanks for taking some time with us, peace. Peace to ETZ The Magazine

DJ. KDL

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DJ. KDL Who are your biggest influences? My biggest influences in the DJ game would be Jazzy Jeff, Cash Money and my man DJ. Wax Spinner.

What kind of music do you listen to today? I listen to Hiphop, R&B, Reggae, Soul and a lot of Old school 80s music.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player? I'm not embarrassed of anything I listen to, as a DJ i play and listen to all genres of music.

Where would you most like to perform? I would love to perform with any artist on a stage that's being televised to give me international exposure.

If you weren't DJing, what would you be doing? If I wasn't Djing I would probably go back to school for a trade and just be a blue collar worker for the rest of my life.

If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would be it be? If I could dabble into another genre of music it would be Freestyle. It's something about hearing those old 80s and 90s dance songs that make me feel good.

What genre of music can't you stand to listen to? I can't stand Heavy metal, that shit just gives me an instant headache.

What hidden talents do you have? A hidden talent i have is writing, doesn't matter if it's a song, poem, or short story.

Could you explain your journey in the music game to this point and how you got involved in the music business? My musical journey pretty much started at birth. My name is Darryl Jackson (DJ), so I was born into this life.I started out early around 12 years old DJing house parties. All my friends wanted NINTENDO or Sega GENESIS for Christmas, I just wanted a mixer and a turntable. I took my love from Djing into making beats and rapping and producing songs for local Philly artists. As a DJ I've played at numerous parties and events through out the TRi-state area. I've worked with Philly artists: Ms. JADE, Peedi Crack, E-NESS, BIZARRE from D12 AND ICONIC MC. KRS-1.

What would you say to someone who wants to start a music career? FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE A DJ, my advice would be collect as much music as you can ( you never know when someone will ask you for a strange request. And if you're doing a gig and the crowd is lighter than what you expected, play like the place is packed, you never know who is there listening. Peace, I'm out from DJ KDL

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AMERICAN GREED

APPAREL

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What's the name of your clothing brand?

What inspires you when you are creating the

AMERICAN

clothes?

GREED

APPAREL....

OWNERS

FOR ME MY INSPIRATION COMES FROM SEEING

BIZZNITTY/ J Lenoir

HOW FAST A GOOD IDEA CAN COME TO LIFE .. MY Where are you from?

CLOTHING REPRESENTS THE IMPERFECTIONS OF

FROM CARSON CA/ BUT HAVE TIES TO I.E, AND

AMERICA....I DO ITFOR THE STREETS AND ALL THE

MY BUSINESS PARTNER IS FROM BERKELEY HE

PEOPLE WHO HAVE DEALT WITH AMERICA'S ONE

IS MY COUSIN /DESIGNER.

SIDED DREAM .SO WHEN I SEE SOMEONE I DON'T NO OR DO NO ROCKING MY CLOTHES IS A

How long have you be in business for?

FEELING OF GRATIFICATION

I HAVE ONLY BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR SIX MONTHS . BUT THE BUSINESS HAS PICKED UP

What make your brand stand out from the

BEYOND BELIEVE I NEVER THOUGHT IT

competition?

WOULD GET BIG SO FAST.

OUR DESIGN ARE BOTH POLITICAL AND STREET ORIENTATED. WE GET TO THE POINT WHILE STILL

What made you decided to go in the fashion

KEEPING THE LATEST FASHION IN MIND.AND WE

game?

STAY RELEVANT . I'M FROM THE STREETS SO A

WELL IM FROM A WEST COAST GROUP

PART OF MY PROCEEDS GO BACK TO THE

KNOWN AS (Y.A./ANTERAZH) me ,ROSCOE,

COMMUNITY 10% donations ...

TRISTAR, SLO, and TONE WE ALWAYS ON TE ROAD DOING SHOWS WITH OUR FAM D.P.G I

Who are some of your clothing influences and

WAS TIRED OF HAVING TO HIT THESE

why?

CLOTHING LINES FOR NEW BOXES ..SO I SAID

FOR ME MY BEST INFLUENCES HAVE BEEN MY

FUK IT AND CAME UP WITH THE NAME AMD

ENVIRONMENT. MY BUSINESS PARTNER J AND MY

MY COUSIN J DID THE DESIGN AND WE ARE IN

YOUNG DESIGNERS LIKE @Lakyo AND My MOËT

MOTION.

SQUAD ..THE YOUTH IS BRINGING BACK THE OLD SCHOOL LOOK SO YOU HAVE TO NO HOW

What's your typical day for you and your

ADAPT .. AND THE STREETS AND WORLD AFFAIRS

clothing brand?

WAKE UP CHECK EMAILS SEE HOW MANY

What would you say to someone who wants to

ORDERS I HAVE TO PUT OUT FOR THE DAY AND

start a career in this field?

I TAKES ALOT OF MONEY AND TIME .. SO HAVE YOUR NAME TRADEMARKED AND YOU BUSINESS TOGETHER AND BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU DO ....AND ALWAYS REACH OUT TO YOUR RESOURCES.

CALL THE TEAM AND MAKE SURE WE ARE ON THE SAME PAGE . AND IM CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR THE BEST AND NEWEST GARMENTS CLOTHING.

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FOR

MEN

AND

WOMAN

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Whack Panda Clothing

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What's the name of your clothing brand ? The name of my brand is WhackPanda.

Where are you from ? I'm from NorthPhilly , but currently reside in the NorthEast section of the city.

How long have you be in business for? I've been doin this for about a year now. Something I've been wanting to do since about 09'.

What made you decide to go in the fashion game? I love the way you can express yourself by just wearing a certain something. I wanna make people feel good just by my clothes they're wearing.

What's your typical day for you and your clothing brand? There's always something to do , some days more hectic than others. I'm always doing countless hours in research & jotting down ideas. Me & my team are always spitting out different things.

What inspires you when you are creating the clothes? A lot of different things. Music, emotions , lifestyles , even food & other fashion schemes. Everyday I come up with different styles and designs for my brand.

What make your brand stand out from the competition ? A lot of clothing lines in Philly are what I like to call "artificial" when I say that , I mean there is no heart , no passion behind there product. You can feel it when you see it. They're in it to make a quick buck. It actually angers me a little when I think about it. That's what the difference is between me and them.

Who are some of your clothing influences and why? Pharell is definitely one of my biggest inspirations. He pretty much defines "be yourself". His BBC brand is phenomenal and always stylish in his own little unique way. My other influence would be "Johnny Cupcakes" his brand is amazing and definitely the way he went about everything to get to where he is now. It's just about the same way I'm going , so there's a lot in common.

What would you say to someone who wants to start a career in this field? I would tell them go ahead and chase your dreams. Find your path and walk it.

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LANDICE

LONDON

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Where are you from? I am from Philly What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? I have been writing since I was about five years old. I didn't really take it seriously until I was about 19. I chose to get into this industry because of my passion for music and just the sport of being a lyrical artist.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from? The indie Hip Hop scene in Philly is huge!

There are a lot of talent in this city and I see more outlets for unsigned artist than ever before.

Who and what were some of your influences? Some of my influences are Big Pun, Notorious B.I.G., The Roots, Wale, and really just lyrical talent.

In your opinion, is Philly Hip Hop represented correctly or does it still need work? I think it still needs work, just because there are a lot of rappers but maybe 1/3 of them are actual artist. Some people rap just to rap and really don't have a purpose or reason for why they are doing it.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? I have done a lot work with a few Philly and Jersey artist by the name of Rich Quick, Newz Huddle, and Philly Fiq. I recently linked up with a DJ who might become my official DJ. His name is DJ Big Champ.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? I am still promoting my mixtape "Murphys Law" and I'm doing remixes to a few tracks I like. I'm also doing as many vlogs and performances that I can.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present? I have worked with Mel Alston Jr who is an amazing soul singer, Rich Quick, Newz Huddle, South Philly Sheed, Aaron Thomas, and a few others.

What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects? My first mixtape was "Words With Friends" which I feel is an underrated classic!! I am currently working on my third mixtape "Good Karma" which will be dropping sometime in the later part of the year.

What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape? I'm constant working on my artistry trying to bring a real relatable feel to my music.

Anything you hear from me you know it came from an idea or situation from my life.

What are some of your goals, musically? Ultimately, I want to become a signed successful artist.

Right now I'm focused on building my fan base and becoming a respected and notable lyricist.

What can independent artists do for themselves to keep and creating a better chance for success for themselves? You just have to invest in yourself and always stay positive.

How can folks contact you? My website www.LaniceLondon.com, Facebook.com/ LaniceLondonMusic, twitter @laniceLondon, Instagram: LaniceLondon.

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Introducing...

What city are you from? Bethlehem PA What was it that made you choose music to express yourself and how long have you been doing it? Watching my father on stage growing up has to be the biggest influence (he was a singer) Ive been actively making music for 20 years now.

What's the indie scene like in Bethlehem, PA? Its a pretty big scene, you have your good and bad rappers, just no real businessmen.

Who and what were some of your influences? As I stated my father is one. Music of all kinds, anything that can move me emotionally in some way or another.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene where you're from correctly represented or does it still need work? I dont believe its represented at all. Like I mentioned before there is no real businessmen out here, Just artist.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with? None. Although I do tend to work with Mani Nigatar, and LPerfex just because i respect their lyrical and song making abilities more than others.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current? Nothing! (maybe thats why im not signed?!) I just make music from my heart, music that I feel, Music that moves me. hmmm Maybe ill tend to pick beats that have more of a "Modern" sound, thats about it.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present? Well all the artist I've worked with have been artist from around my way.. The only artist that wasn't has been Sha Stimuli, Block McCloud, and Joell Ortiz,

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Tug Mc Raw all via King Magnetic. And it's not like I was even in the studio with them or even met them.. I just ended up on a song with them thanks to Magnetic. I ended up on a track with Jukstapose out of NJ and my old room mate Seegi Bang out of Jamaica Queens.

What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects?

The first one I dropped was Language Arts Vol.1 which was back on 2006 I believe. Im currently working on Vol.4 now which will be out shortly. You can find all of them except vol.1 on Itunes.

What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape? They can expect raw lyrics. Head knocking east coast hip hop..Im not one of these rappers rhyming over down south beats just cause thats all that getting played on the radio nowadays. I hate that shit.

What are some of your goals, musically? Well first and foremost its to be heard. Just cause most of my city knows who I am doesn't mean shit to me. My sound is bigger than this little pond, im aiming for the ocean. I just cant do it all on my own.

How can folks contact you? Anyone can find me on the social networks of the time: FaceBook,Twitter etc.. just type in Tug McRaw Thanks for taking some time with us, peace. Thanks for having me, Peace.

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MACKIN

FJHDLKHKJSGKJDFGKLS

BEATS

KJDFHGJDLFGHDFHBKDUH 81

Where do you come from? Sweden What's the best way to describe your sound? Futuristic, New and Diffrent!

What equipment are you using to produce with? My computer, M-Audio Midi keyboard, Yamaha Speakers and a Pioneer Subwoofer.

What made you get into the music industry? Dropped a tape at datpiff, then it got a lil buzz, then I got loads of friend requests on facebook, then I took it from there.

Who are some of your influences and why? Johnny Juliano has always been a big influence, after I heard his beats, I started to make beats to and here I am today with my own crazy sound!

Who taught you to produce? No one! I'm self taught.

What producers are you feeling? At this moment, Young Chop is droppin hot sh*t, My production team, Trapstars is also droppin mad beats, so shout out to my whole team (O.G Beatz, Tyler Mccain beats and Casjay).

Favorite rappers? Wiz khalifa, Kid Ink, Kanye West, Young Jeezy, Big Sean, Meek Mill, Juicy J and Problem!

Who do you think is the best industry DJ is? Hmm.... probably DJ Ill Will.

Five years from now, where are you trying to be in your career? My goal with my music is to go so far as I can, if I don't make it I don't. But I will probably land some dope placements!

How many tracks you produce in a week or in a month? Depends how much I'm in the studio, but anywhere from five to ten.

Have you had the chance to work with any big name people yet? Nah, not really. The biggest artist I've worked with so far is, Young Dolph.

What advice would you give to anyone who wants to be a music producer? Keep grinding, don't stop when you reach your goal and when you reach it, make new goals and keep putting in work!

How can someone get in touch with your for your beats? Soundcloud:soundcloud.com/ marcusfahlberg,Twitter:@Datkidmackinbts, Facebook: www.facebook.com/ Mackinbeats, New Beat Tape: www.datpiff.com/Mackin-Beats-Mackin-Beats-YourFavorite-Producers-Producer-mixtape.404771.html, Mail: Mackin.Beats@hotmail.com

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Next Up...

Vennturra

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? My name is Vennturaa, and I am from Fresno, Ca. I am a hardcore hip hop artist, that is serious about my craft. I have done everything from mixing and mastering my own project "Vanity's Fair", which can be found on "Datpiff", to performing in front of mass crowds across the west coast.

Where did you come by the name Vennturra? I came by the name Vennturaa, on accident actually.

I was on to atheletes at the time, when I was searching for a name. I called myself "Robert Vennturaa", which I got from the baseball player "Robin Ventura", who was one of my favorite players. I liked it so much, that I just kept the name Vennturaa, and changed it up a little for legal purposes. Then I added the whole "V" for Vendetta thing, as my image. That's where the tattoo came from.

Tell us what made you want to pursue music and how long have you been doing music? My sad life experiences growing up in poverty, and a few broken hearted relationships, definitely played a key role in me pursuing music on a very serious level. I have been doing music for a few years, but really came into my own, as well as finding my own character as of late. Everything that has been going on in my music career, has happened in the last couple of years. From me recording a pretty hot mixtape, to doing some really key performances.

What's the indie music scene like in Fresno, is it different than L.A.? The indie music scene in Fresno is very poor. There's literally no support there, and that is one reason why I moved away. In L.A. there's so much more to offer for an Indie artist, and plus with all of the events going on, such as the B.E.T. awards, Grammy's, etc. It's definitely a more secure environment for an up and coming rap artist to be in.

You have a great many musical influences, please share some with us. My musical influences are Jay Z, Jadakiss, Juelz Santana, Styles P, The Game, Pete Rock, Jeru The Damaja, Nine, and the "Infamous Mobb Deep", which is my favorite duo of all time. They get credit for my music career, because they are my biggest influence! Let's not forget the great Michael Jackson(r.i.p.), and my second favorite singer, "Bjork". Her weirdness has inspired me, and let me know that it's ok to be different, and I love that about her.

I read your bio and you spoke about coming from a very tough upbringing, did that experience shape you into becoming the person you are, not just musically? Yes. 100% It definitely has to do with the person that I turned out to be. I'm not a gangster, or a thug, but a hardcore hip hop, rap artist. I have my rugged ways, and it reflects in my music, as well as real life. I live my lyrics, and the person that you hear in the music is "Who I Really Am". Just like my song.

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You spoke on your move to Texas with your brother and some of the label deals you had when you first entered the rap game, how did that develop you as an artist and how did it shape your business mind?

The move to Texas got my mind away from my father's death at the time, and helped me just clear my mind of a lot of things. The deal that I had definitely helped me grow as an artist, and helped me develop a better understanding of the business, as well. I've seen the "seriousness" of the music industry, when I signed my first deal. It wasn't for much money, but it was about more than that, at the time. It made me feel very appreciated as an artist, which lifted me up emotionally as well.

Movers, shakers and industry heads you're connected with? I am connected with "E. Paul Harris"(Dr. Dre's right hand man), "Don Destin" who has produced for T.I., Nicki Minaj, and many more. I have also dealt with the "Dipset" family as well. There's more to mention, but that's just a few of the people that I am connected to.

What do you do to stay abreast of the current trends in an Industry that constantly changes? Well I picked a style that I feel is appealing, and a style that wouldn't die, so I can rap over "today's" beats.

I study the new trends of music, so I don't far behind in what's selling.

What’s your management situation look like? I had just parted ways with my management team, and was probably one of the best decisions that I have ever made in my life. He couldn't do the job. Period.

So, right now, I am a free agent.

With the advent of video websites and the present technology being offered today, has that helped or hurt you in terms of pulling down record deals? It has somewhat helped me, but I still don't understand how in the world, I am not a signed artist. Very confusing at times. It's like all of this social network stuff has worked partially, but not quite enough. I should already be there.

Do you have any new recording, production, placement or label deals in the works? I have some people that I have in front of me, that are trying to help me out with that. Nothing "for sure" right now, because I just parted ways with my management team, that was supposed to get us signed to "Def Jam". The deal never went through, and that's one of the reasons why we parted ways. However, I have been working on some new music for the fans, and to keep up with the times.

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Artists you would like to work with? I would love to work with Jay Z, Jadakiss, Juelz Santana, Styles P, and The Game. As far as producers go, Just Blaze, Swizz Beats, and 9th Wonder.

The track "Willie Mays" is the joint, "I Need My Sleep" has a raspy type of flow in your voice, "Absent T" has that same flow, is that something you try to do on purpose? Yes indeed, and thank you for the compliments. "I Need My Sleep", is my favorite song. I try to seperate myself from the rest of these artists, because anyone can ride a beat. So, I tried to find something that would seperate me from the rest. The raspiness in my voice, also shows the anger that I feel when I deliver my words...

What can your listeners expect from you and where do we find your music? My listeners can expect a different appeal on my next project. I'm going to go a little more commercial on this go around. I will still have the same flavor, and have my "hardcore hip hop" songs, that I am known for on this project, but something more for the ladies this time. So expect a new Vennturaa, but then again, the same Vennturaa.

Plans... short term and long term? My plans are to cut out a few more albums/mixtapes, and get signed.

Put in some work, and go find the next Vennturaa. I want to start a record label, and sign the best talent out there. Give somebody a shot that deserves one.

How can the listeners contact you? They can contact me by email at vennturaa11@gmail.com as well as send me messages on some of these social networks that I am a part of.

Thanks for taking some time with us Vennturra, peace to you. Thank you for the interview, and peace to you as well bro. I'd like to give a shout out to my friends Ruben Radilllo(Rush) and Josh Prescott, for being there and never turning their backs on me. As well as my family. Especially my mother, my cousin Dana, and uncle Fred Tarvin. I love those people. "V'

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Monet

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I am a New York native. I am a singer/songwriter/musician/actress/filmmaker. During the day, I work with children in their homes. I am a teacher of homebound children. They are all ages, some have special needs. In addition to that I work intensely on all things animal and environmental.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? Growing up, my Mom and Dad were in the business.

My Mom was a singer growing up and even won an Apollo Theater competition as a young teenager as part of The Heyward Trio, (that photo is in the digipack version of my CD (ESSENCE). My Dad managed groups back in the day. My step dad was a killer trombonist.

His name is Harold Carpenter. He hung out with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Duke Ellington and knew folks like Thad Jones and Theolonious Monk. So I grew up listening to that kind of music.

My aunt Audrey and my aunt Jean were also very good friends with Betty Carter. I have been doing music since the womb...(smile) I remember going into the Blue Note to speak with Betty Carter as a teenager. That was amazing! Now whenever I am in the room at the Blue Note , where I met Betty Carter. I ALWAYS remember that moment, when I knocked on her door.

What's your entertainment scene like? It is a very warm community. I am happy to say that I truly enjoy being a part of it. We all pretty much know each other. Whenever possible we do collaborate. We also join forces to push a lot of our ventures, shows, videos etc.

Your influences? My musical influences are vast. I love Hubert Laws!!! There are so many, I struggle not to leave anyone out. I love story tellers, Bob Marley, Joni Mitchell, Phoebe Snow, Lauryn Hill, India Arie.. to name a few. Instrumentalists Jean Pierre Rampal, Jean Luc Ponty, Ronnie Laws.

I can go on...

Bobby Caldwell, Michael Franks.

Tell us about a typical music day for you? Nothing typical about my days...LOL. I do a variety of things. If i want to practice (yes i DO still practice) i may just jam to something I am vibing on... and i vibe on ALOT of stuff.. including Miguel.... Abiah... and many others. If not i will actually work on some classical pieces.. maybe an Anderson piece. if i am in a writing mode.. MANY things can happen.. I may start jotting down concepts... or a line or two about something i want to emote about. Sometimes.. i just find some guitar chords that 'speak to me' and from there... i start the basics for song. I may also have a track from someone and write from there.

In your opinion, is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does that need to be remedied and why? We can always use something. Right now i think that folks need to pay attention to other folks schedules. We dont need to compete for our audience. Having said that, I think that artists need to make sure (whenever possible) that they not schedule things when other people have shows. This will avoid people having to choose who to support. Also people should'nt be afraid to support each other more on all levels.

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Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Not sure how to answer this one... lol. Suffice it to say, that I know ALOT of folks. Since I sing AND play flute. I am able to cross over in ALOT of different genres of music. Rock, Jazz, Folk, Acoustic, Electronic, Dance, R&B, Soul.... Having that gift has allowed me to met ALOT of people. Too many to list here.

How are you staying current in a music scene that constantly evolves? Let my sprit breathe. I LOVE MUSIC... so I am VERY open to EVERYTHING that is created. To me thats the way to survive. You must be open and genuinely appreciate what you are doing.

What’s your management situation like? My management situation is perfect for me.

We all work very hard and we all work hard TOGETHER. I trust them to guide me and they trust me to listen and make excellent choices once they have given me their input. They are constantly coming up with new , effective ways to guide my career. I am VERY happy and excited to be a part of Purpose Music Group!

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts? Most defintely helps, because it gives the audience a chance to revisit performances. It also allows new people to check out what you're doing in real time. The challenge is to make sure that the visual quality is great and your content is compelling.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? Things are brewing , I am not ready to talk about them yet.. BUT.. I WILL!!!! (smile) Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with?

Wow.... well.quite a few on my most recent album LIFESIZE MIRROR- I worked with the dynamic, diverse singer/songwriter STEVE WALLACE, I also worked with my labelmate and friend the talented ANGELA JOHNSON, producers JESSE FISCHER ( from SOULCYLE), ETHAN WHITE ( from TORTURED SOUL), SIJII,PREZ, and TICKLAH . Vocalists ABBY DOBSON, MARTHA REDBONE SAUNDRA WILLIAMS and TRICHA ANGUS , multiinstrumentalists JEFF SMITH ( FAMILY STAND, SOULFOLK EXP), NICK ROLFE and TARRAH REYNOLDS. I also have played on projects by COLLETTE, TARRAH REYNOLDS, AMMA WHATT, KENDRA ROSS, JARRARD ANTHONY, CHRIS ROB, DJ SPINNA, JiGGMASTAS and ANGELA JOHNSON..I was a guest vocalists on TORTURED SOUL's very first album and the ROOFTOP project by CHRISITAN VER HALEN , and co-wrote a song on COOLY's HOT BOX second album. Abiah (voice teacher)... .I have at various times in my career shared the stage with VERNON REID, MUSTAFA ULMER, SY SMITH , ZO, ERIC ROBERSON, MAYA AZUCENA and MARLON SAUNDERS. I would love to work with HUBERT LAWS, KEM. I really like and respect JANELLE MONAE a lot.

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The first project released and is there anything new in the pipeline? My first project was ESSENCE (2004) next I released and EP called VAIN (2008) the last project I released was LIFE SIZE MIRROR (2012).... I was on the Billboard Jazz charts last February at number 26 for 6 weeks. There are projects in the mix....

What can lovers of your music expect from you and where we find your work?

You can purchase my music from local stores that support independent music. You can also find me on iTunes and Amazon , or online at Dustygrooves.com. I will continue to give my listeners music from the depths of my soul. Perhaps we may do more instrumentals?

Your plans, short and long term? Short term-I am planning a new video, a couple documentaries including one on animals and writing some new music. Long term, I am planning on getting more of music placed in movies, TV and commercials. Recently "WANNA KISS YOU "from my first project was placed on the MINDY PROJECT (FOX-TV). I am also working on a film project that I am very passionate about.

How can the listeners reach out to you? I can be reached through my twitter @MonetNYC my Facebook Monet or Monet Cherise and my managements website www.purposemusicgroup.com ..

Thanks for taking some time with us, peace. Thank you for taking time with ME........ light...

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Introducing

La Veda Photography by Stevie

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? My name is La Veda, and I am a singer/songwriter/poet and producer originally from Miami, Florida. Currently residing in Baltimore, MD. Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? My father was the influential factor. He loved music and would often sing to me. Every weekend I heard his amazing collection that consisted of Classical, Jazz, Salsa, Soul, and Brazilian records; we would see musicals once a month; and that had me hooked. I have been singing in choirs and writing poems since I was seven. I wanted to be an Opera singer at one point, so I was classically trained for two years when I was a teenager, then began singing backgrounds, for local artists in Miami.

What's the music scene like for you? The scene is alive in Baltimore. There are a lot of talented artists creating their own way to gain exposure, via videos, gigs, open mics and having merchandise readily available.

Your musical influences? My influences would be Leontyne Price, Shirley Bassey, Sarah Vaughn, Johnny Hartman, Barry White, Change, Sal Soul Orchestra, Sade, Phyllis Hyman, Ohio Players, Isley Brothers, Grace Jones, Jean Carne, Sweet Thunder, Naked Music.

Tell us about a typical music day for you? Each day is different. I could be recording and/or writing new songs, updating websites, sending or receiving music overseas, meeting new producers, scheduling interviews and daily meetings with my manager.

In your opinion, is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does that need to be remedied and why? Independent music is represented in Baltimore. I think there are more live venues in Washington DC, but there are changes occurring to remedy that here

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? Cafrodeep, Kenny Muhammad, AD. Cruze, Navasha Daya, JeffMajors, Traycee , Fiso da Costa, Paul Sibisi, PhatFrank Mixes, Menu Lilac Jeans, Ben Bristow, Tantra Zawadi, Dana A. Byrd, Sandisco Recordings, Detox Records, Alex Millet, DJ Sarena Tyler, Sergio Benitez, Holiday Sparks, Deejay the General, Gerald Anthony Kelly, Raydio Twins, Ms QuietStorm.

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? I hope the music, I choose to write to, is what is keeping me current. LOL!

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What’s your management situation like? I feel fortunate that my manager(Stevie Robinson) works hard, and gets great results!! She's been in the business for a number of years, has solid relationships and respect in the industry, which is important. She passionately supports independent artists. She loves music!!

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? Videos sites are a great marketing tool. It's much easier to reach a new audience, gain new fans and introduce them to your back catalog.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? Let Love Happen-Ep Drops FEB 14-Singles out now. **("Let Love Happen and Speechless")-produced by Cafrodeep.

Choices You Make"-produced by PhatFrank Mixes, just released on a Sampler, from Sandisco Recordings. **"Live Now")-produced by A.D. Cruze, on Detox Recordings. With remixes by Dwayne Jensen-(Detroit), Dalouda and Joseph Anton. Everywhere I Go It's Disco-produced by Ben Bristow, released on Detox Recordings, with remixes to be released on Feb 26th by Boom Merchant-(UK), Dink-(Detroit), Jerem A-(Paris), Coach Roebuck-(NYC) Upcoming releases with: Paul Sibisi-(South Africa) Menu Lilac Jeans-(South Africa) Alex Millet-(Italy) Fiso da Costa-(South Africa) CJ Stone-(South Africa) Pete Marriott-(Seattle) Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with? Worked with Cafrodeep Citynoiz Vibrato, Paul Sibisi, PhatFrank Mixes, Tricky, Kenny "Human Orchestra" Muhammad, Pete Marriott, A.D. Cruze, Ben Bristow, Dana A. Byrd, The Vision, LineNoise, Element, Cudda Brown, 418, Dwayne Jensen, Dwayne Bastiany, The Undah-Dub, CJ Burken.

A part of my wish list is to work with, Naked Music, Ananda Project, Black Coffee, Ralf Gum, to name a few.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? My first project, ("Sticky/Foreplay"),was released in November 2010, on Harlem Station Recordings.

EP (I Love You) released 2011. My upcoming EP, ("Let Love Happen") was released on Citynoiz Entertainment, produced by Cafrodeep, on 02.14.13("Valentine's Day").

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? One of my songs("I Love You") was chosen to be featured in an upcoming independent film, in Baltimore, titled ("Hood Dreamz"), produced and written by Anita D. Foster. I'm also doing a special performance in the movie. My music can be found on my website http://www.reverbnation.com/ LaVeda3 and online stores, such as Traxsource, I-Tunes and Amazon beatport What are some of your plans, short term and long term? In the near future, I would like to write and produce for established and upcoming artists. Also, I'm planning to tour, nationally and internationally and record a full length CD. How can the listeners contact you? Bookinglaveda@gmail.com.

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"My father was the influential factor. He loved music and would often sing to me.

Every weekend I heard his amazing collection that consisted of Classical, Jazz, Salsa, Soul, and Brazilian records; we would see musicals once a month, and that had me hooked."

"I have been singing in choirs and writing poems since I was seven."

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J Bro-D 95

We caught up with Philly native, J Bro-D, who stopped by to talk to us about some of the things he's embarking on.

Please tell us, what is your geographical birthplace? Philadelphia.

Why is music your choice of expression? I've loved music all of my life. I got into the business, so that people would have the chance to understand me, my story and to feel my music.

In your words, is being independent the way to be? The indie way is the best way to go with your music. Right now, major labels are not giving the artists what they want, need and desire.

Who were the people that shaped you musically? DMX, Busta Rhymes, Biggie and Big Pun, to name a few.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene where you're from accurately represented or does it need an overhaul? No it isn't represented correctly and it needs work.

Who are some of the artists, you're affiliated with? HMOP-Shaw Productions, Family Affair Music Group, Showtime Entertainment, Platinum Eagle Records, and the list goes on.

What are you doing to stay current? I'm always workng and staying true to myself. If they (the listeners) can't vibe with what's in me and how I bring it out, I don't know what else to produce.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with, past and present? E Ness, Bruno Brinks, P-Shaw, Flawless, Black Deniero, Shankk, Dom Shizz, Jabb Da Bomber, Alien 321, Hussul.

Tell us about your past projects and do you have anything on the horizon? Sour Apple Bubble Gum Vol 1-4 and yes I do have work currently in the pipeline.

What can your listeners expect to get from you, musically? The listeners can expect versatillaty, style, concepts, a switch of genres and relatable music.

Your musical aspirations? To go mainstream and spread the positive message in my music world wide.

How can folks contact you? You can contact me at www.reverbnation.com/jbrod and on youtube just type in J bro-D Thanks for your time big homie. Thank you for the consideration. Hopefully, we will network and do more in the near future-J Bro-D.

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Ryan Baker

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ees from Hampton, stined to make you eir City Lights

D. Nicol

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Where are you guys from? Hampton, VA What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music? It's all for the love and respect of hip hop.

And both of us combined have a total of about 10 years doing music.

What's the local Hip Hop scene like where you're from? It is very large but not very diverse or original at all, unfortunately.

Who and what were some of your influences? Our influences consist of Rakim, Immortal Technique, Eminem, Tupac, Biggie, Andre 3000, Hopsin, J.Cole, And anything that is basically original hip hop.

Is it fair to say that the Hip Hop scene where you're from is represented to its full potential or does it still need to be worked on? In my opinion everything can use work because nothing is perfect, but this scene could use some work on supporting the indie artists.

So many people from our area do music that nobody supports because they see it as a joke or a hobby.

Who are some of the artists, you're affiliated with? We are affiliated with a crew known as the Undustry, who are very close friends of ours as well.

How do you stay current, when music is constantly changing and moving? We are traveling, winning showcases, and proving our talent to those who think less of us. Surprising a crowd will definitely catch their attention and that's exactly what we do to keep it.

Who are some of the artists you've collaborated with? We have worked with The Undustry, Neight, Morgan White, Shizzy Sixx, and Prince Ea. First project you dropped and do you have anything current? Our first group project was titled "Soberecovery" and we plan to start a new project very soon.

What can your listeners expect from you? They can expect anything from a goofy fun song to a low down depressing song. We like to appeal to all audiences, so we create music for different listeners.

Goals you've set? Our goals are honestly to eventually (soon) move up and get signed to a major label and be able to make this our way of living from the moment we wake up to the moment we go to sleep.

How can folks contact you? You can e-mail us at dnicol94@yahoo.com and bakervision757@gmail.com, Facebook.com/dnicol94, Twitter @The5thcents, or on YouTube dnicol94 & bakervision757.

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Graf Tatics Featuring WIX aka SOBAD ICP1

Story by KR

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Please tell us what your hand is, what do you write? SOBAD ICP1 aka WIX ICP1 What city are you from? If you're from Philly, what part of the city do you hail from? North Philly How long long have you been doing graf and what age did you start writing? Thirty five years, started at 13years old Who were some of the writers, you admired when you first got into it? My favorite writers were WEE, DUCK, BAK, SOCOOL, JOHNSKI, TASK, WAY, TX and PRETTY BOY, just to name a few.

Name some of the writers, you've bombed with or wanted to bomb with? I bombed with legendary writers such as JAY aka CASPER, JK aka PAN, AB, DAVE, PERO, IXU, SX, BX, SUB, SN, CRUSE, TRANE, CAT, KEE and my RIP To MAD, RAZZ and SOX and a host of other writers.

Talk to us about why you wanted to be a writer in the beginning. I wanted to start writing when I went over my cousin JAY house out west philly and he was doing those bubble letter throw ups on a piece of cardboard and i been hooked ever since. Thanks CUZ! Were there any movies or books that influenced your development as a writer? Movies like Style Wars, Wild Style and Subway Art did not influence my Graphic attitude because I was already doing it for real in the streets. I could relate to the movies but in philly we really had graff wars and ICP is the oldest graff crew in the country which started as a stepping crew in the late 1960's and evolved into an Epic Graf Crew the true BAD BOYS of graff.

Some readers might not know this, but what are some of the tools need to be a graf writer?

You gotta have heart because things can happen in the streets.You have to have your own style, although we all learn from our predecessors.You must have some Rustoleum Flat Black, Aluminum and some monsta caps. Last but not least, get some good walking shoes an old jacket and some rubber gloves.

Is there a certain type of style you use as a writer? Certain types of letters, arrows, etc? The styles I prefer are WICKEDS, PIECES and PRINTS that's what seperates Philly writers from the rest of the world. You can have one name with many styles and no other city does that, we also drop top to bottoms.

Do's and don'ts graf writers should pay attention to? Never write on a religious institute.

Never X or cross anyone, if you can't fight. Never say you quit, once a writer, always a writer. you just go into hibernation.

Are you amenable to having your art be a "work for hire"? As far as work for hire is concerned, you can pay me to get some hits.

Thanks for getting with ETZ The Magazine today, we appreciate it. Shouts to all my Philly Graf fam, PEACE!

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gheddys burg

gheddys burg

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Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I'm an Independent Hip Hop Recording Artist from South Florida.. City of Naples

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you want to do music and how long have you been doing music? Theres a quote out there somewhere that says, "Music speaks what cannot be expressed..� at an early age I dealt with difficulty and Music was and still is my outlet to express. I've been doing Music since 2001 and never looked back since.

What's the indie music scene like in your city? There's a lot of artists & entertainers in my area doing music. We're a small market but we still put on shows & showcases to display the talent we have.. I feel like we are at the stage of looking to expand

Your musical influences? My musical influences would be: 2Pac, OutKast, UGK, Scarface, Master P..to name the few.. I grew up in that Miami Bass Music movement so this also had an influence.

Tell us about a typical music day for you? It all depends on whats on my agenda. Being independent I have to keep up with my marketing and promotion. Whether its on the streets as I go bout my daily business with CDs & promo material.. to going online networking and spreading my music and brand to different networks and fans..im on the go. I'm also an engineer, so if theres music projects that needs touching up, I work on that..but typically tho once I'm in the studio I may browse thru a few beats to catch a vibe, and then lay down some magic once I got the right flow..theres always something to do so theres really no letting up.

In your opinion, is the indie music in your city, correctly represented or does that need to be remedied and why? I think the indie music is represented correctly because we all have our own unique style & sound. We bring it each time you hear it on wax. On the flip side being a small market city & dealing with certain complications and forces, it positions us to think outside the box to attract the right attention. You cant hide something thats on the verge of expanding. It's like holding a firecracker in your hand wit a closed fist..its bound to explode. Thats how I feel about my music and thats how I feel about the way the indie scene round here is.. a boost is needed in the entertainment side of things to expand and at the same time we make it do what it do with our talents and ideas

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with?

Not really heavy with my Industry connects. I might have brushed a few shoulders with some folks along my way through previous management and my own efforts in networking.

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What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? I adapt and keep up with the latest trends with an ambition to set new ones What’s your management situation like? Currently I don't have a management , but in the market With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts and why? I'd say they helped my promotional efforts because its a swift way of reaching my audience with a visual. It has also helped spread my talents across the web to different markets. That's the power of it.

Do you have any recording, productions or label deals in the works? Not at this time.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and would like to work with?

I've worked a number of Artists from round the way from the likes of FLA Amazin', Brown Shuga, Prince Genisiz, Revo ZMF, Fresh Yves. Sho Zoe, Jimmy Dade to name the few.. I wouldn't mind collaborating with artists like T-Pain, Alicia Keyz, Missy Elliot or even Swizz Beats. They're bona fide hit makers and this is what I set myself out to do.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? When I first started out in music I was with a group, Blazed Out. Our first collective project was titled, “Let it Loose”.. My first solo project was an LP titled, “Only Time Will Tell”.. currently I completed a mixtape titled “Huntin' Season Vol.1”.

Right now tho im just working on dropping singles. I have a few out now but also in the studio working on that One. What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? Expect originality, ambition and passion when it comes to me and my music. You can find my music in several different locations like: www.reverbnation.com/gheddy www.reverbnation.com/gheddy and www.soundcloud.com/gheddy.

What are some of your plans, short term and long term? My short term goal is also to establish my recording studio and polish my brand to excel to the next level.

My long term goal would be to establish a solid brand locally,regionally,nationally and in time internationally.

How can the listeners contact you? Listeners can hit me up on: twitter.com/ gheddyboy or directly at: gheddymusic@gmail.com.

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JaE the Artist is The Rock Goddess 106

Please tell the readers, who you are, where you

who was raised by my father who not only is a

from and what you do?

musician, but he's a boxer as well, so they know not

I am JaE, people named me "The Rock Goddess".

to play with me!

Philly, born and raised. I'm a Rock Artist but I do it

sometimes a challenge because of the varying

all when it comes to music; musician, songwriter,

personalities, but I love it and I love my bandmates,

music

it's a family thing. In general, its hard for females

producer/composer

and

of

course

performer.

Dealing with the guys is

to get respect for their artistry by men, but I'm not the average chick. I'm pretty aggressive, talented

Tell us, what was the deciding factor in you aspiring

and I know what I want so the guys respect what

to do rock music? I love Rock music. It's where my

I do and things work well.

heart is. I started out in the churches with gospel music, but when I started writing my own it became

In your opinion, does the indie rock music scene, in

gospel rock music. Basically, I had to just follow

Philly,

where my heart was. It's still got some Philly Soul

performers with open arms or does that part of it

represent

African

American

women

need to be remedied?

in it though.

The indie rock scene in Philly for the AfricanWhat's the indie music scene like in your city? The

American Female performer is almost nonexistent.

indie music scene in Philly is alive and well. We have

First of all, there are not many of us, then when you

so many artist in so many different genres, it's a

are trying to get in the venues you are fighting for

beautiful thing. Philly is known for that soulful

a spot to perform in places where there are not

sound, so there is a lot of Neo Soul and Jazz, but a

many that look like you. As an African-American

lot of us artists are branching out into other areas.

woman in Rock you are looked at as if you don't

Basically, there's a lot of the same thing going on,

belong. Most don't want to give you a shot, but as

but that's okay. I think we all are out here trying

you continue to press on you gain your respect and

to find our voice and our way, but it'd be nice to see

things start opening up. It needs to be remedied,

a little more originality in music.

but it's only going to be remedied by us (AfricanAmerican Men and Women) stepping it up and

Your influences? I could talk all day about my

killing the Rock game. Force them to take notice of

influences,

how we do it in the Rock World!

Michael

Jackson,

Tina

Turner,

Aerosmith, Lenny Kravitz, Alanis Morissett, Elton John and Paul Simon are just a few that come to

Is being an indie artist something that has helped

mind.

you or hurt you, in terms of marketing, promoting and selling your music?

Tell us about what it's like fronting a rock band and

I guess it's a double edge sword with that one.

being an african american female? Where

Being Indie allows you the freedom to do what you

do I start. It's wonderful! I'm a 5ft 11inch Amazon

want to do with your music, but it does have

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challenges when it comes to marketing, promotion

Who are some of the artists and industry folks

and sales because of the almighty dollar. The

you're connected with?

money and the reputation of a label puts you out

I'll be honest with you I know a lot of people in the

there faster and helps increase visibility in ways you

music industry, but I don't like to name drop. I was

can't do on your own (their relationships). Doing it

in a serious relationship with a known artist, so I've

Indie, with all of the access to the web and social

experienced the industry in many different ways

media/music sites, allows you to promote, but you

and have connections to a lot of national and

have to be smart in how you do it. There are many

international artist and musicians.

ways to increase your visibility but you have to be careful with the resources you choose to put your

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that

time and money into to help you, some just are not

constantly changes?

going to be worth it. I love being indie because I'm

I continue to work on my craft and musicianship.

different and I can be different in my music. Helps

I'm expressing myself musically and creatively and

to have a good team also and I have a great team.

I understand that good music lasts forever. I'm not into trends and the same old sound. As long as I

How have the listeners and fans of your music,

have experiences that relate to people then I will

received you? It's interesting because, if you break

stay current. There's always an audience for your

the listeners and fans down; Black, White and

music, you just have to connect with them where

International you get a different initial response,

they are around the world.

but then everyone seems to receive it the same way after the initial introduction. Black tends to think

What’s your management situation like?

rock is dark and demonic, that it's all about yelling

I love my manager! What more can I say other than

and screaming, they look at me like I'm crazy,

"Has my back and my best interest at heart". It's

White seem to think I'm about to come in with some

difficult in a Soulful city to push an African-

R&B, most look at me like I'm crazy with that "why

American Female Rock Artist, but my manager

is she here" look. One guy even asked when we

finds a way to make things happen.

were arriving at a gig in Jersey "what are you about to do, R&B?". My international peeps just love the look and the music. They seem to be more open

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo,

without the judging and stereotypes. All in all,

etc, have they helped or hurt your marketing and

when it comes down to it, once they hear the music

promotional efforts?

and that blend of Rock and Soul they Love Me! In

Only helped. These sites are what helps advertise

a nutshell, like my manager says, "All you need is

everything I do. I'm sure any mainstream and indie

for people to hear you".

artist will attest to that.

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Do you have any recording deals in the works and

What can your listeners expect from you and where

would you sign a recording deal with the music

we find your music?

playing surface being so level?

They can expect REAL music! I will give them my

I've had a few offers. Family and friends really

Soul on this album and I will be real and honest.

thought it was the right thing to do at the time, but

They will be able to find my single and my album on

it really wasn't. The compromise was too great and

itunes and amazon in July but for now they can look

they were trying to change my style and my sound,

me

so we figured it best to do it Indie. If I were to ever

www.welovejae.com and check out some of my

consider a record deal, it would have to be terms

live videos www.youtube.com/jaetheartist. I

that would allow me to be me, but the indie scene

can also be found on www.soundcloud.com/

is where it's at for me right now.

welovejae.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with and

What are some of your plans, short term and long

would like to work with?

term?

I've worked with some artist on projects as a writer,

Short term, I will continue to perform and promote

composer and vocalist but that was earlier in my

my music and my new album coming out in July.

career. At this point I write and produce my own

Long term, I will continue to perform and promote

music. There are some producers I would love to

my music and albums on an international scale and

work with like Big Boi and Andre 3000, Hans

get more into producing for other artists.

up

on

my

website

for

updates

Zimmer (The genius behind The Lion King soundtrack), Wyclef Jean because I think they

How can the listeners contact you? The best way

would kill it with my type of rock music and also

to reach me is to go to the website and click the

Prince.

contact link: www.welovejae.com

What was the first project you dropped and do you

Thanks for taking some time with us, peace. Much love to ETZ The Magazine and all of you for the support.

have anything ready to be released?

I've dropped some music some years back before I decided to go all in Rock, but I'll leave that in the past (lol). I do have an album that I'm working on that has a release date in July with a special event to usher it in on July 20, 2013. The single will be out prior to the album release.

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110

Rob Diesel

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Where are you from?

Philly .. My moms from Camden (Jersey) though, so I spend a lil bit of time there also.

What made you want to get into the music industry & how long have you been doing music?

When I met my cousin (VS.) and my brother (Tha Kidd) in highschool (I was 16) they happened to both rap. I just was one of those lunch table rappers, but I told them I wanted to start making songs.

So I spit for both of them and they told me I had a lot of potential. I just stuck with it from that point on.. It's been 3 years now.

What's the indie Hip Hop scene like where you're from?

There's definitley some talent here.. But even the talented artists with buzz don't even got they business right.. So I'm comfortable.

Who and what were some of your influences?

Mostly everything I know I taught myself just by observing other artists & their moves. But musically, I'd say Peedi Crakk, Yo Gotti, & 50 Cent.

In your opinion, is the Hip Hop scene where you're from represented correctly or does it still need work?

I won't think it's represented correctly until I'm on top. Plus there's just too many artists who aren't true artists here.

Who are some of the emcees, DJs and crews, you're affiliated with?

Lop Da Monsta, Tha Kidd, Mugga Jones, Maronthetrack, Young G, Kwa, Lion Kartel, & DJ NoPhrillz (Coast2Coast & Fleet DJ). Ion really fuck wit these other rappers.. They frauds. The people who do music that I'm cool wit is all my brothers. We ain't cool because of music, it's way deeper than that.

The music scene constantly changes, what are you doing to stay current?

I do me reguardless fuck anything else.. Just keepin it 100 wit da fans and puttin out what they need when they need it. You could say I do "A Lil Bit Of Everything" Who are some of the artists you've worked with, name a few, past and present?

Chizz, Razor, and a bunch of other artists I've done features for.

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What was the first mix tape/album you dropped and do you have any current projects?

"A Lil Bit Of Everything:Only The Beginning". I actually dropped it at the end of October 2012, it's hosted by DJ NoPhrillz. It's the first mixtape I put out, but also first of the series "A Lil Bit Of Everything". So the first tape is still relevant, but I been working on the next two tapes already.

What can your listeners expect from you, musically, each time you drop an album, single or mix tape?

A Lil Bit Of Everything!! But also quality music coming straight from my heart, my life. They can expect me.

What are some of your goals, musically?

I got too many to list.. Just watch, I'll accomplish them.

How can folks contact you?

215RobDiesel - Twitter/Instagram 215RobDiesel@gmail.com Other then that catch me around n chop it up wit a real muf**ka..

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Tamara Bubble

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ETZ The Magazine caught up with the Brooklyn, NY native to chop it up about what she's been up to these days.

Please tell the readers where you're from and what you do? I'm from Brooklyn, NY. Shout out to Fort Greene! I'm an independent entertainer/artist, songwriter, actress and model. I sing, I rap, I scat ... all that good stuff! I write and perform everything from Dance/Pop to Hip Hop, blending elements of Jazz and Soul.

How did you get the name Tamara Bubble? Tamara is my middle name and the bubble ... well my momma gave me that, but my personality really why they call me bubble! I love to live, laugh, and have good times #BubbleOnDeck I keep things bubbly!

The deciding factor that made music your choice of expression and how long have you been doing music? I been singing in the church choir since I was old enough to talk. I decided to pursue music as a career after meeting a producer in Queens at my first photo shoot. He was looking for someone to lay some reference vocals to some tracks he produced to submit to Jazmine Sullivan for placement. After I saaaang for him lol, he asked me "Do you write?" I said "I do now!". I went home and wrote 10 song in like 2 hours. Once I put the melodies to the music, I had caught the artist bug, bad!

What's the indie music scene like in Brooklyn, NY? I mean there's always opportunities for progress and platforms for exposure, but I feel like it just a bunch of crabs in a barrel. It's supersaturated and fellow artists can't respect a good thing b/c they trying to get on too. I get it! I also go OT and do my thing! I've had artists at showcases that wouldn't congratulate me at the event, but then go on Facebook in my inbox and whisper that I did my thing ... Couldn't you tell me that at the show or do you not want to feel like a fan while everyone's watching. Some people are funny...lol.

In your opinion, in the indie music in NYC, correctly represented and what changes should be made, if any? NYC scene is really like any other major market. Those with the money to the promote receive the exposure, but at the same time those with the talent need to be willing to invest in their career to be seen, heard, and compete for that matter! Nothing you can do to win except PLAY! U gotta be in it to win it babes!

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected and worked with? I get offers for collabs all the time, but that's not my focus. I don't want to be accepted by society because of a co-sign. I want to be respected for my talent and drive. I'm more interested in connecting with the music breakers. I love a DJ conference lol. that's who I'm trying to break bread with.

I reach out to journalists, bloggers. There'll be plenty of time to collab once I get on. Once people know what I can bring to the table.

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What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? I work with fresh, dope producers that aren't afraid to step out the box. I'm currently working on PSA (album) that addressing outrageous social issues. It was produced entirely by super producer Krazyfigz out of Charlotte, NC. It pays to not be married to one flow, one song concept, one style because you could potentially come obsolete. I do so many genres and I write about what real because that's what people can relate to. That's what keeps my current.

What’s your management situation like? Pspell Management is the best thing for my career. My manager Patrick (Pspell) looks out for me heavy and works harder than I do. I'm grateful for the advice and guidance and couldn't ask for a better support system. The bookings, the opportunities and we're just getting started. We really have a plan that we're executing. We're not just shooting darts in the dark. It's a beautiful thing.

Tell us about your current project? My current project P.ublic S.ervice A.nnoucement is my most passionate project yet. It came about because I realized that my peers and even kids younger than me don't have role models. If I can be that one inspirational person in their life then I feel like I've given something back to my community. I basically took some of the major issues that everybody tweets about, that everybody's disgusted with, but I'm just bold enough to write a song about it. "Pull Them Pants Up" is the hip hop/R&B lead single and it addresses sagging (dirty boxers and booty cleavage to be exact). The support on this upcoming project is bananas!

The album is currently on pre-order from my official website TamaraBubble.com (click on music). The follow up single is a soul ballad "To Kill A Baby" and it addresses violence against children. I don't have kids, but I couldn't imagine running up in a school and killing somebody else's. It's really getting out of control in these streets.

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music? Listeners should expect the unexpected! I'm real, I'm raw and I'm defined. Just when you think you have me figured out or I remind you of one artist, I'll drop something completely different and some completely fresh. I like to keep you on your toes. My catalogue is on Bandcamp! http:// TamaraBubble.Bandcamp.com My singles are on iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/ tamara-bubble/id492364681 My official music videos are on youtube http://youtube.com/ TamaraMusicVEVO My official website is TamaraBubble.com and you can find me on Facebook/twitter/soundcloud/instagram @TamaraBubble. and feel like a fraud.

Your plans, short term and long term? Short term and long term, my focus is my fans! I'm building my fan base with a motto of NO GIMMICKS. I'm a keep bringing the real and I know people can relate to what's real so I'm focusing on giving the people the music they need to get by, to grow, to love, to live and to be bubbly in the process. I have strategic and business goals long term for Grammys, Oscars, songwriting awards and all that good stuff, but I want to be able to sleep at night. I'd be happier knowing I gave to you real than to sell 20 million records and feel like a fraud.

How can the listeners contact you? I'm on twitter @TamaraBubble. I'm on Facebook too! Hit me up. I like interacting with fans and getting your feedback. Bookings, interviews, collabs, drops, media contact Pspell Management: pspellmgmt@gmail.com or 646.730.8691...Peace.

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We recently sat down with KidkoVega to get some perspective on how he feels about music.

Who are your biggest influences? Kidko Vega, Michael Jackson, Afrika bambaataa, Royskopp, Steve Wonder, Prince and the Generation, Kraftwerk, David Bowie.

What kind of music do you listen to today? All Types, All Genres.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player? I am the type of person that does not believe in embarrassing music, I will listing to almost anything that give me a groove. Now, if I do not like the music I won’t listen or make myself listen to it.

Where would you most like to perform? Anywhere there is Kidko Vega Fan’s Paying or not Paying. A place where it is safe to be me.

If you were not rapping, what would you be doing? Producing Making Beats; I am a Musician by Choice Anyways.

If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would be it be? Electronic Music. But my own way, My own style, My own form.

What genre of music can't you stand to listen to? Some Heavy Metal Music.

What hidden talents do you have? I can Paint, Draw, Video Editing, Clothing Design, Designer.

Could you explain your journey in the music game to this point and how you got involved in the music business? From age 7 to 12, I attended Settlement Music School I studied Percussion, Piano, and voice. Therefore, they created a monster.

What would you say to someone who wants to start a music career? Practice, practice, practice Make sure your good at what you are doing. Master your craft do not do everything people is doing and you will make it being you.

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What city do you come from? Philly, born and raised...West Oak Lane, Uptown Stand Up! What's the best way to describe your sound? Dark, eclectic and sprinkle some intelligence on it What equipment are you using to produce with? A brand new Apple desktop computer, Adobe, Pro Tools, Fruity Loops, Garageband, and a Axiom 25 M-Audio Keyboard What made you get into the music industry? Just self expression. Music is a great way to ventilate. I love to create things. It kind of gives me a sense of being.

Music can't die, all you have to do is press play and I'm reincarnated Artists you listened to? Eighties and 90's Hip-Hop stars with dope bars...KRS One, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, NWA, Wu-Tang, Jay-Z, Nas, Scarface, Redman, Eminem and a whole lot more Who taught you to produce? MTV music generator lol myself of course...i simply went on line to youtube and educated myself...its not as hard as one would think...dedication is all you need to accomplish anything What producers are you feeling? Truth is I don't listen to too much industry music now a days... I'm too busy working myself but I dig a lot of the producers on www.soundclick.com... They created a whole new lane for music on line and I learned a lot from watching and interacting with them Favorite rapper in your mind is? Myself actually... I'm more into rapping than producing. I only produce because I rap to be honest Best industry DJ? DJ Clue, DJ Kay Slay and R2 D2 Five years from now? Where are you trying to be in your career? I think this is a flawed question because everyone wants to be the best. Honestly as long as i'm able to sustain myself and my family with a decent life i'm cool with that...I'm really looking into going over seas with my music Have you have the chance to work with any big name people yet?

No huge mainstream names...but I recently did something with Ness Lee and I'm planning a song with Copywrite 78...They both are definitely big influences on me and the underground circuit of hip-hop Holler at us about some of the artists you have worked with so far?

Adam Lee, Miz Earth, Ness Lee, Phillies Messiah, Snestro, Daz Jones, Blazen, Murda Mami, Shock, Killah Priest of WuTang...mostly local acts from Philly but definitely talented none the less What advice would you give to anyone who wants to be a music producer?

Get a comfortable chair...you are now behind the scenes and the success or failure of every project rests on your shoulders...best advice i have is work at your own pace and get plenty of feedback but go with your gut instincts How can someone get in touch with your for your beats? www.facebook.com/ kayoda15 hit me up and tell me what you want and i'll do my best to create it...follow me @KayOda15

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Is Brooklyn In The House?

Is Brooklyn In The House?

Is Brooklyn In The House?

Is Brooklyn In The House?

Introducing

J. Wesson Is Brooklyn In The House?

Is Brooklyn In The House?

Is Brooklyn In The House?

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Please tell the readers, who you are, where you from and what you do? J Wes is just a down to earth dude, hip hop fan, and upcoming rapper from Brooklyn.

Tell us what was the deciding factor that made you aspire to do music? I was at a point where I wasn't doing much after college. Hip hop has always been a big part of my life, since 13 when I wrote my first rap. I've been working on my craft ever since. My friends and family believed in my talents as an MC, and with their encouragement, I decided to make this my 9 to 5, a dream I'm pushing to come true.

What's the indie music scene like you city? Very saturated. Where I'm from, it's hard not knowing at least 2 or 3 people chasing rap dreams. There's a lot of competition, but I try to not let it defer me.

Your influences? 90's was my era, so definitely guys like BIG, Rakim, and Nas played a role in my style. I just tell my story from my side of the borough.

Please tell us, are lyrics and style most important to you, in terms of the delivery of your music?

Definitely. Hip hop was at its greatest when artists painted pictures with their lyrics. And you can't name a great MC who didn't have style, I feel that's part of what makes your legacy. In that sense, I carry on tradition with the delivery of my music.

In your opinion, is the indie music scene where you're from correctly represented or does it need to be remedied? There's a lot of hot underground music coming from my hood. It's well represented and it makes me feel good that I can help add to that movement.

Who are some of the artists and industry folks you're connected with? I'm in my own circle, but am connected with a lot of the hottest acts coming from Brooklyn like TMM, Yung Fresh, ODMG, Krush Rec, and others.

What do you do to stay current in a music scene that constantly changes? A lot of my music deals with the issues we all face in the world on a routine, so I stay current by being able to relate to the fans. You don't have to be from Brooklyn to feel my words and recognize what's real.

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What’s your management situation like? Right now I'm unsigned and keep everything independent.

With the advent of video sites like Youtube, Vimeo, etc, have they helped or hurt your promotional efforts? Video sites have allowed me promote my music from home to overseas, so it helps.

Do you have any production, single or label deals in the works? I have some deals in the works to help advance my career, but until it happens, nothing's imminent.

Who are some of the artists you've worked with? Artists in my camp like TMG, as well as Tru Money Makers.

What was the first project you dropped and do you have anything ready to be released? My debut mixtape "Work Before Glory" is on mixtapetorrent.com and thatmixtape.com for stream or download. I have videos lining up to be released soon.

What can your listeners expect from you and where we find your music and what lessons can you leave for up and coming emcees? Listeners can expect genuine music; something you can relate to and vibe with. I wouldn't do this if I felt I wasn't representing hip hop the way it should be represented. I wanna bring Brooklyn rap back in a way never seen from Biggie or Jay-Z, and touch topics that'll make you join the wave. You can check sites like reverbnation, and hip hop sites like mixtapetorrent and thatmixtape for past and current music from J Wes. I still have a lot to learn, but one thing I can leave for fellow emcees is that you get what you put into this game. If it's important to you, you will find a way! If not, you'll find an excuse.

What are some of your plans, short term and long term? Short term is to have a couple mixtapes and videos out for the first quarter of the year. Long term, I plan to tour and headline some showcases out the city.

How can the listeners contact you? Twitter @Wes34th Thanks for spending time with us. Thank you for having me!

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