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ESTHER’S PHOTOSHOOT

ESTHER AUSTIN PHOTOSHOOT WITH THE FORMER SUPREMES’ SCHERRIE PAYNE, SUSAYE GREENE, JOYCE VINCENT Randi Childs Fashion and Portrait Photographer Randi Childs Photography randichilds_photography Esther Austin Outfit: The Funky Butterfly Range The Former Supremes Outfits: Linda Stokes

FRONT COVER PHOTO CREDITS: Alexander O’Neal

Photo Credit: Ed Araquel

Shocka

Photo Credit: Owen Vincent

DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publishers. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. TurningPoint: Music and Lifestyle Magazine is owned and published by Esther Austin Global Publishing. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of TurningPoint: Music and Lifestyle Magazine. Therefore, TurningPoint: Music and Lifestyle Magazine carries no responsibility for the opinion expressed therein.

CONTENT

CONGRATULATIONS TO REGALETTES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT DEVIN COOKE

EXCLUSIVE The Honouring of Legend Alexander O’Neal on his ‘Time to Say Goodbye’ Farewell Tour UK Rapper ‘Shocka’, Mental Heal Advocate talks about the Power of Love and Self-Care

HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Legacy Builders Under Construction: Tools and Tips by Judy Worrell Katie Rose The Power of Vocal Legacy

ART AND CREATIVITY The Artistic Vision of a Contemporary Virtuoso. A Glimpse into the World of a Digital Artist Congratulations to our Resident Contributor Kwame McPherson Winner of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2023

‘Eilatan’ the Jewellery Brand, Representing Love, Compassion and Hope goes International

EUGENE ANKOMAH-The Expensive Creative Genius Transforming Lives THE AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTIST on a Quest to Promote Positive Images of Classical Music to African American Kids

From her Deathbed to Whitehouse-STELLA SINGLETON-JONES’

FASHION JUDITH BARNES: JBCOUTURE International Fashion Designer and Award Winner THE FUNKY BUTTERFLY Range Takes Flight

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP SWP ESTATES: Revolutionizing Your Property Ownership Experience HAJ BOTANICS: A Healing Oasis Of Love Birthed Out Of Pain and Life’s Challenges The Award Winning Brand ‘REVIBED’ Encouraging a Healthier Lifestyle

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REVIEWS Erykah Badu’s “Unfollow Me Tour” by Renee Mickens: A Transformative and Immersive Experience for Fans

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ESTHER AUSTIN’S Meet and Greet Tour 2023

ENTERTAINMENT THE LAST TEARDROP’ DOCUMENTARY A Revealing Journey into the Life of BOBBY BROOKS WILSON SINGER, SONGWRITER SARAH BROWN Pays Tribute to MAHALIA JACKSON YOUNG, READY AND HUNGRY: ARTIST THREEBOMB Ready to Take the Music Industry by Storm MATAYA CLIFFORD CHEWALUZA A Daughter’s Homage to the Late Great Musician MATAYA CLIFFORD CHEWALUZA UK SOLO ARTIST, GEEGEE,Talks about her Latest SOLO SINGLES TRU - THE RNB CONTEMPORARY BAND Continuing the Sound of PHILADELPHIA ROY HAMILTON JR, Continues the Legacy of his Father. JOE TEX II, The Legacy Continues

that we can collectively grow and thrive in. As previously mentioned, I look to become a role model and icon for my culture and family, empowering my culture to achieve greatness and building generational wealth to help us all prosper in life. I will help turn not only my city, but the nation’s dreams of prosperity into reality, innovating and leading in the restoration of the health and balance of our society.

of mind, body, and spirit in my journey to success. Hip-Hop artist Drake: Drake has showed me how to maintain top-tier status in his craft and continue to be the best against all odds through his charisma, impact, and work ethic. “Keeping his foot on the gas” he shows me the importance of not being complacent in my journey, and the importance of uplifting your community and family, pouring into them out of gratitude like they poured into you.

Name three people who have inspired you on your journey to date and briefly state why

What three attributes do you think are important to achieve in life?

My mom as she has been a maternal figure of love, power, and leadership in my life. She encourages me to defy any limitations that life tries to confront me with and become the best version of myself.

Determination, patience, and versatility are three attributes I think are important in life. Throughout my journey, I have observed that the achievement of these three attributes are fundamental for an individual to overcome change and adversity in life and become well-rounded.

NBA Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant: Kobe Bryant has inspired me to maintain a relentless work ethic in pursuit of my dreams, emphasizing the importance TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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“legacy Your story is the greatest that you will leave to your friends. It’s the longest-lasting legacy you will leave to your heirs.” —Steve Saint.

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I also believe you’re an activist. You’ve always been clear about who you were and are. You created your own distinct identiity of being authentically outside of the box. Therefore, as you evolve into a different place, coming to the end of a very successful career, who is Alexander O’Neal going to reinvent himself into? I’m still trying to get my head around this farewell tour. I’ve been performing for a very long time. However, after all these years there are some things I now want to do. First and foremost, I want to spend more time around my family and grandchildren. Finding a bit of normality in a life that hasn’t had any normality. There’s was no white picket fence because you don’t get a chance to experience normality because you’re working all the time.

Photo Credit: Photo By Ed Araquel

Also I want to try my hand at something totally different from music. To be able to create my own shoe line and make shoes. I want to make shoes with my hands first, and be good at it. I want to understand the industry I’m about to go into, because it’s like anything else, in order to make your way in an industry that is already established and be successful, in or to make your mark you’ve got to punch your way in and through. To have an Alexander O’Neal shoe range is intriguing and exciting to me.

What do you feel has been the reason for your longevity in the industry? I believe it’s because of what God intended for me to be and do, it was obviously something that was ordained for me. When I was younger, I went to college and I wanted to be a football player, but I ended up quitting college. Then I went to another college and quit that too. In the end I realised that college wasn’t for me at the time. It isn’t for everybody. This therefore motivated me because I realised I was never a good quitter and so almost 50 years later, after getting my first record deal, I realised that because I never quit, that is what has been the reason for my longevity. As a result, and what has encouraged me are my fans, especially my British fans who have been stellar and so supportive and have given me so much love. A lot of my fans in America know the success I have enjoyed this side of the water. So, my fans have definitely encouraged me and have given so much back to me in return, that it’s phenomenal, and that is also part of the reason for my longevity in this industry.

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You were born in Mississippi, and I read about some of the experiences you had, we know what Mississippi was known for. Do you think being born in that environment at that time and having the experiences you did fired you up to never give up, to push beyond the ordinary? I think there were a lot of different things that contributed to who I am now. One was growing up without a father. He drowned in the Mississippi river, working for the Government, when my mother was 6 months pregnant with me. So I grew up with some psychological challenges around that. 7

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I had to overcome not having a father. That really affected me a lot. I learned one thing, coming from an environment such as Mississippi and from the South, from being around during the Civil Rights movement and dealing with racism. I came up living through the whole nine yards. Racism was alive and fierce growing up in the 50’s, you have no idea what we dealt with. However, here is the great thing about all this. It’s not actually where you come from in life, it’s where you’re going. So I thank God that he’s given me the opportunity to travel all over the world. When God gives you an assignment in life, it’s for YOU, and you’ve got to follow that assignment. It’s not for anyone else. I’ve got 8 kids and they all have their own minds. I don’t force what I do on them and I have some talented singers in my children, however, they are not in the industry and be it for me to shove my expectancies down their throat. I just keep moving forward. Nowadays, I’m trying to take life one day at a time because yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not promised and we only have today to get it right.

However, in actuality, if your days are numbered and you don’t know when you are going to leave this earth, how is there a future for you? So I just try to keep life as simple as possible and keep it happening.

Winding down. What is the legacy you feel you’ve left? However the public want to perceive me, they will perceive me. I know that I am not just a good singer, I know I’m a great singer. I’ve never had any formal training. Everything I’ve learned, I’ve learned from the best superstars such as Sammy Davis Jnr, Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye, Otis Reading, Little Richard and the endless amount of other super stars much bigger than I. So I will let the public decide how they perceive Alexander O’Neal and what that legacy is. But my music will stand for itself and will stand the test of time. I’ve been very fortunate working with some of the best producers such as Jimmi Jam and Terry Lewis who happen to by my family and my friends. So I just want my music to speak for itself. That’s my legacy. I’m 70 years old, I’m still on the road and I’m still enjoying it.

If you look at it there is no such thing as the future for human beings. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not promised so why is there a future? People just want there to be a future, to hope there is a future.

EXCLUSIVE

Lastly a message to my fans

‘Whenever life seems to be giving you a bunch of lemons. Look on the bright side make lemonade’. Photo Credit: Photo By Stephen Wright/Redferns

Full details of the ‘Time to Say Goodbye’ Farewell Tour can be found at: https://www.alexander-oneal.com

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You lost your mother a few years ago and that was the last time you had an episode and was sectioned, what was the relationship between you and your mother and who was she to you?

When the illusion of fame crumbled suddenly, did you realise at the time what was happening and what did that feel like?

I lost mum in 2022. We were pretty close. I’m her only child. I was a special child to her because she had lost children before so I’ve always felt a deep sense of purpose to beat the odds and correct things in my family’s life in order to make her proud.

I did realise what was happening. Things were falling apart one by one and it was really sad watching everything you’ve worked for crumble before your eyes and not being able to do anything about it.

What did it feel like to come out openly to talk about mental health and how did your peers initially respond to this?

When you’re in front of the world as an artist, your life is an open book for everyone to see and judge. After what happened with Marvell, how did this affect how you faced the world and how you perceived the world, perceiving you?

Speaking openly about my mental health was not the easiest decision but it was my destiny. I knew it was something I was meant to do. My friends thought I was going crazy, no pun intended, but now they all see the vision because I’ve been authentic and I’ve persisted and I am helping others.

It impacted me so much because I really cared what the world thought at the time, and knowing everyone knew I was in a bad place was so embarrassing. If only I knew and realised at the time that we all have our own problems but some just hide it better.

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You’re a rapper and mental health advocate and you’ve produced a documentary called ‘Me, My Music and Mental Health’. You’ve also got a book out called ‘A Section of My Life’. It’s evident you want the world to be educated, to understand more about mental health, so that it isn’t taboo, because people are keeping how they feel hidden and sometimes even losing their lives because of the stigma – ultimately what is your message to the world about mental health?

Why is it important for you to build a legacy? Legacy is important because you are leaving your name behind and your name can either be a key or a pad lock. For people, I want my name to be a key that opens doors for my family and others when I’m gone and to do that I have to leave an impactful positive legacy

What is the legacy you want to leave the world? The legacy I want to leave the world is that I changed many lives in a positive way and caused huge ripple effects in society

My message is that being vulnerable is the coolest thing ever and it’s the gateway to connection and that’s essentially what we are on this planet to do, and you can’t achieve that without vulnerability. The only part I haven’t quite figured out yet is how to help people respond well to vulnerability and not use it as weapon against the person displaying it.

What is the legacy you want to leave because of your mother? The legacy I want to leave my late mother is that her son made the family proud and brought success into the bloodline, to show them that it was possible to beat the odds in order to become something great in the world.

What happens when you feel depressed or down, how do you manage it? When I’m down I have friends I can talk to, and I have music. I can write. I have a mentor, I can watch TV and I take the time I need, to get myself right. Walks are beautiful too as they help clear the mind.

What are some of your daily practices that keep you topped up? My daily practices are in the morning I walk and this is essential. I have taken and saved so many videos on my phone, of those walks, of things that have uplifted me. When I watch them again, I can tap back into that frequency. Then there is also talking to friends - that human interaction is everything.

In 2018 you released a single called ‘Self Love’. What is the importance of self-love and what does self- love mean to you, how do you do self-love? The importance of self-love is that your whole world begins to glow. Your life is a direct response to how much you love yourself. From your career to relationships. How do you love yourself? by changing your internal dialogue and speaking to yourself with love and respect.

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I think in life too many people forget where they come from and life can be hard and unkind, especially if you’ve got mental health issues, physical health issues. It’s even more difficult, if you are from a minority - whether that’s race, religion or gender. It can be isolating and discouraging without having help, and I want to try and help in the best way I can. This advocacy led me to launch my “Hope Collection” to raise awareness and money for relevant charities. Doing this through my brand gives me a good platform and helps me connect with people across the world who are struggling with similar challenges. I also donate some of my sales income to relevant charities that need our support to continue doing their important work.

with the miners, cutters and communities to make it fairer and less problematic. Finally, I try to use as many natural products instead of harsh chemicals so they can be disposed of more safely and I use bio-degradable or recyclable packaging. Lastly, I try to educate my clients and followers on the importance of sustainability and how non climate friendly fast fashion jewellery can be. The more education over low-quality jewellery the more sustainable the industry could become.

Is it important to you to create and build a legacy and why?

My greatest challenge has definitely been how to overcome my personal hardships whilst also battling with imposter syndrome like most creatives! Whether that’s battling with my mental health, imposter syndrome or trying to figure out how to do a physically demanding job with a chronic illness. At times, it feels too difficult and sometimes I can’t do the work I want to do due to needing rest to avoid flare-ups. A battle between what my body needs and what my mind wants is difficult and can be overwhelming at times and I’m still learning how to manage this. For now I just take each day at a time, try to be kind to myself and try to follow my heart when it comes to making jewellery.

As an entrepreneur what has been your greatest challenge and what did you learn from that and overcome?

It is important for me to create a legacy, although I’m quite happy for my legacy to be understated. The most important thing I want to do is help pave the way for people like me. If I help only one or two people to not be defined by the way they look or being stuck in a stereotypical box, then I’ll have done my job. Working in the arts is not always easy, and being a person of colour in the UK means you’re always going to be the minority. In addition, having a chronic pain condition like I suffer with, can make things feel like an uphill battle. It’s hard to feel included, to feel welcome, to feel part of something. So I’d like my legacy to inspire people, making them feel a part of something, and making them feel heard or valued and less alone.

Leave us with one of your favourite quotes My all time favourite quote is “These are the days that must happen to you” by Walt Whitman. For me, this is the perfect quote to offer kindness to myself when I’m feeling negative about something. It reminds me that as much as I’d like an easy sailing, happy life 24/7, you have to overcome hardships and learn from your mistakes in order to truly evolve and enjoy things even more.

What does it mean to you to build a legacy? Building a legacy for me, is creating space where I’ve helped make a difference or made an impact on someone’s life. Whether that’s from the messages I spread, the awareness I create, the conversations I have with people or the jewelry I create, it is all part of building a legacy for me. I want my legacy to be a positive impact on other people’s lives

Sustainability lies at the core of everything you do – how do you implement this with what you do?

Natalie Ifil

Sustainability is really important to me, and the jewellery industry has an unethical side to it so I try to combat this in my own practice as much as possible. I work with recycled metal, re-use all my scraps within my own work, buy gemstones from eco-conscious companies who try to work TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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force - my creator. The founders of an award I received around 2016, said “you know Eugene, you were ordained to do what you do”. Very humbling words. I do not take anything for granted at all. However, it’s also enabled me to know and feed into the idea of unlimited inspiration from the same higher source. So, that for me means I will never run dry of ideas for example. This solid psychological base provides a confidence to change, develop and innovate with gusto and to know that I already am whatever I draw from my talents, even before I have become it.

which is often fed by the things life has taught us. As well as what we have gained from our ancestors whether we believe that or not.

When it’s all said and done playfulness and cheerfulness is an element underneath all my creations. While being serious and passionate about my craft it allows me to not take certain things too seriously but to acknowledge it when it’s time to laugh also. To end my point, the quote is also saying that I need art, creativity and vision everyday I’m breathing. God provides my breath, so I’m winning!

How does what you do connect to your ancestors or to that deeper level of consciousness?

In another way we could argue we are already connected to our ancestors. They are in us, part of us and in our genetic make-up. In fact our characteristics and some of our abilities create a direct connection which is alive, pulsating and continuing a sort of tradition or legacy which transcend time and space. A thought that came to me on this topic is “I am ME, because THEY were there”. I think there is something humbling in the understanding of this. It should hopefully help to both explain our attributes but also maybe ease the pressures and expectation society puts on us. Why? because we are what we are and although we can expand and always become more than we are, or should I say discover more of who we are, there is still a foundation, perhaps spiritual, that was settled and formed a long time ago before we came into being. It is similar to the idea of destiny I guess.

A good question. I truly believe I’m connected through the integrity and fearlessness of my approach. There was and is so much that has been done in the past before I ever came into existence of course cultural foundations, practices and beliefs I may never even fully understand. But my awareness, reverence and acceptance of it and the incorporation or references of it in my expressions and art, means that I am actively honoring, uplifting and celebrating it. Therefore, I am contributing to it, as well as hopefully educating through its representation. There is a profound beauty in representing one’s truth. Be it from a personal experience stand point, a holistic or an intellectual one. Just being yourself whilst remembering where and how your identity and the identity of your people was formed, is an irresistible point of projection and pride for me. But sharing that amongst my followers and admirers is about presenting an idea, a mental platform for them to find their own sense of self and freedom.

Your work is more than just art, you are supporting others, i.e young people to transform, to heal, to learn, to grow, to expand. How does the work you do with them achieve this?

What is the connection between yourself and your ancestors?

I observed from a young age and realised some of the most powerful people, moments or events in history were times where and when the use of the human will, the imagination or creativity was used to make life better, in whatever capacity. They say “life imitates Art”. I think art becomes even more powerful, effective and more memorable when it jumps from its most common use or purpose,

I think again the connection between us all is everywhere and in the things we do. The bible says “The truth shall set you free”. I know I am bringing back that word again ‘truth’. But I think in all its meaning and connotations, truth opens the door to other possibilities, other perspectives or “alternate realities” that maybe particular or propelled by our singular vision/s, TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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ART AND CREATIVITY of being a thing of beauty, of aesthetic pleasure or an object of our desire on a wall, or in a space for example, and becomes a thing which now by its conscious design interrupts the set patterns in our lives with a relatable theme or a familiar topic which is prevalent and pressing. In other words, art is often inspired or informed by life experiences and occurrences. But at some point, the opposite can be true. The art and its expressive language can help shed light, on some of our day-to-day problems we struggle with as a society. When this is done right, everything about it can go beyond almost any set of limitations and goes straight into our hearts and causes positive change.

with technical ability, especially within art. That open approach creates a type of positive inner comfort that enables the young person to dive head on into my specially created, collaborative, socially impactful community based performances and ongoing installations (project Re-Claim) which I have created to help bring greater community cohesion, but to also increase the conversation around knife crime in the UK. However, when we consider it carefully, what I am really saying here is that it is all conducted in the language of Love and not in judgement. Love accepts and creates an equal level playing field.

When a young person picks up a gun or a knife, from your perspective what is it their soul is saying?

I try to always create from a place of acceptance and I encourage everyone I encounter to do the same. That simply means the readiness to explore ones inner being (personality, beliefs or convictions) whilst using that as a template or a spring board in telling your story or sharing your perspective. This approach I find allows people in general - especially young people to be open, vulnerable and willing to part take, knowing their voice or expression is accepted and just as important us anyone else from the past or present. This by the way has very little to do TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

I love this question! It is quite a complex internal situation I feel. I recently watched a clip on Youtube where a gentleman was explaining why in spite of having been involved in some criminal activities as a young man for a short period of time, there was yet something about his upbringing that was instilled in him by his parents which he felt constantly pulled him back and eventually made him decide to give up that life. He called it pride and respect. 36

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What is the inspiration behind Afrokid-1?

In the process of drawing the Afrokid-1 holding the French horn, I asked Mr. Watt how many instruments there were in an orchestra and his response was, depending on what selections they are doing, there were between 13 or 14 different instruments or sections of instruments. So I had an epiphany one day whilst getting a bunch of references from Mr. Watt, to draw this kid playing all the instruments and in doing so I learned so much about the instruments. After I got past four or five instruments with the male character AfroKid-1, I decided to share some of my work with certain individuals, who liked the images however, I kept being asked what about having a girl character. At the time I was thinking about the harp and I was going to draw the AfroKid-1 with a harp, however Mr. Watt informed me that traditionally the harp is played by a woman, so this was the opportunity to bring in AfroKid-1’s sister, who I named BB Blue.

Mr. Robert Watt a retired orchestra, French horn player! He is one of the first African-Americans who played in an orchestra as a French horn player. He saw one of the characters I had created and asked me if it was possible to put a French horn in this character’s hand and I did so because of the respect I have for Mr Watt. I didn’t know much about the French horn until I met him, and he supported me in understanding more about the instruments by sending me references to which I researched on Pinterest and then I created my first piece for the Afro kid.

Why is it important for young people to see images and representations of who they are culturally? Mr. Watt is now retired, and still mentors kids playing the French horn. He was the one who told me, after he saw the piece I created, how important it was for our kids and I mean African-American kids to see themselves in this way! Prior to that I had no idea there were that many African-American kids playing classical music.

What is the fundamental message of your work? The fundamental message is to bring awareness to African-American kids that are playing classical music or who want to get into classical music. I had no idea that there were so many African American kids playing classical music. I guess mainly because the majority of people playing classical music are white people and Asians. I believe they still dominate, and based on what I understand, the percentage of African-Americans in the whole entire scene equals between 1%-2% no matter how good or talented they

Your images showcase Afrokid-1 and BB Blue playing a variety of classical instruments, why did you choose classical music as a genre to showcase to young black kids? TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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may be. A lot of this was down to lack of accessibility, racism and lack of diversity.

What has it been like to create this project and how has it inspired you?

Therefore, because this was bought to my attention, it was important for me to produce characters for African-American kids who are playing classical music, or who want to play classical music, who I felt needed to see these images of themselves. Because there are no images of themselves, like the ones I have created, in this arena!

At first, I couldn’t see the vision fully, even though I had mentioned I’d had this epiphany of the Afrokid-1 and his sister, playing all these instruments! But when I pulled up a diagram on the symphony or the orchestra, and of all the different instruments, the list seemed to be so much bigger than what I anticipated. After I got to the 7th and 8th instrument, I started to see the vision evolve and for me personally, I knew I had to get this project finished. Initially it was such an enjoyable process - what I mean is the journey from the idea in my head to transferring it to my tablet. Also, bear in mind the amount of time it took me to finish this project, because I also have a 9 to 5 job and in between it all, I had a lot of personal stuff going on.

How long have you been working on this project? One year and eight months. I started in 2022 and finished on September 15 2023, on my youngest son‘s birthday

So how has working on this project inspired me? I remember at the beginning, the first several instruments and designs were easy and exciting. I was excited about the Jimmi Hendrix reference, the character sitting on the piano with a guitar. However, as I got further into the project, where I had to complete the last four or five drawings in order to finish, it became harder to complete. I had so many different distractions going on in my life with things popping up out of nowhere - some major distractions! I remember one particular night I was praying and asking God to allow me to live long enough to finish the project and I promised him that when I did, to let the chips fall where they may - but to just let me finish. Now that I’ve completed everything, I feel good, like OG James Brown, but more than that, I feel empowered.

What do you want young black people to realize about themselves and their potential, by seeing themselves represented in the way you have portrayed them in your work? First and foremost for them to ‘see’ themselves! The representation of themselves. I want them to imagine, to dream, to open up their minds to something different that they may not have thought about before! To see an instrument that catches their eye and to be curious enough to enquire ‘what is that instrument?’ and then to want to play it, to give it a go. I want to plant a seed of a possibility, to inspire young people, because if they could be influenced by my poster, to pick up an instrument, to discipline themselves to learn it, enough to be able to look back one day to say ‘I remember that little AfroKid-1 or BB Blue playing the clarinet or the violin or the cello or whatever instrument, wouldn’t that be cool? . TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Model : Yahima Mora Photographer: George Wakefield

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FASHION W

e celebrate this phenomenal lady who has won so many awards to-date. And she has done it once again. Judith recently showcased and modelled her gowns at The Milestone Global Pageant in Dubai, October 2023 and left with many more. Reigning Beauty Queen Dubai 2023, Best National Costume Dubai 2023, Winner Platinum Mrs Global International World Dubai 2023, Timeless Beauty Dubai 2023, Miss Jamaica Dubai 2023, Award for best Costume and Crown Dubai 2023. If you haven’t heard the name Judith Barnes by now in the world of fashion, then you will do so by the end of this article. A vivaciously hard working, driven, talented and colourful designer, whose creations are simply divine, resplendent of the highest level of creativity and quality. Judith Barnes continues to go from strength to strength, initially taking the East Coast by storm and more recently internationally. Judith’s creations are flamboyant, filled with a va va voom of colours and excitement. Items adorned with feather and frills, with flounces and thrills, the words elegant, sexy, sassy and sensual come to mind. Her slogan ‘Custom Designs with you in mind’ is fitting for the type of clientele she attracts. Judith creates items so specific to the client that it transforms not only how they look, but how they feel. Anyone can create their personal magic by having an outfit designed by Judith. From Weddings, to The Proms, Beach Wear to Evening Wear, from Your Home to The Grammys, Judith’s creations adorn those who want to feel like a Queen. Judith also creates accessories and headpieces, that flirt with the finesse of pure glamour taking one back to the sophistication and sensual elegance of the likes of Sophie Loren, Dorothy Dandridge, 1950’s star Hedy Lamarr, Audrey Hepburn and other stunning actresses who graced our screens and who wore their headdress like plumes of frolic and their clothes resembling the wedding flower, Calla Lily with its trumpet shape and elegant air, whose meaning is regal.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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THE LAST TEARDROP’ DOCUMENTARY

A REVEALING JOURNEY INTO THE LIFE OF

BOBBY BROOKS WILSON

“Born into foster care and overcoming a traumatic childhood, Bobby Brooks Wilson found solace in music and became a remarkable singer paying homage to R&B legend Jackie Wilson. But as he searched for his biological family, a stunning revelation emerged that would alter his life forever. THE LAST TEARDROP is a moving tribute to Bobby’s inspirational journey, a poignant exploration of the foster care system, and a testament to the transformative power of music The 84-minute film, directed by Florida Filmmaker Tony Grier and produced by AQUEST FILMS, follows Bobby Wilson’s journey living in foster care, his shocking family discovery, and a web of secrets involving the mob, murder, and financial fraud.” Excerpt taken

from www.thelastteardrop.com.

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Esther: I feel as if you carry something

Esther: Absolutely. I believe that the

through your voice, from an ancestral place. It’s deep, it’s rich, and you are embodying, the Pentecostal experience, along with the James Brown vibe. I also feel there is something more that you have tapped into and that is the soul of Mahalia Jackson and what she stood for. She was a representation of the voice of her people. She was a representation of the voice of pain. She was a representation of the voice of the remnants of slavery and its desecration of black humanity, she wept through her songs for the soul of her people, the racism and so much more, and yet there was hope in the crescendo of her voice, and though her faith, a spiritual intonation of feelings in her activism for freedom and justice

sound and the song are two different things. There’s the song which is about the words and the melodies, however there is then the sound that is a rich, deep, bowel of the earth belly cry, reaching out, resonating, vibrating. Therefore, what would you desire for people who listen to your first solo album to come away with?

Sarah Brown: I think there’s two things. It

took me forever to muster up the courage to sing my story as I do feel I’m singing a story. I’d love people to muster up or to glean from this the ability to face your fear head on and recognize that what you need to do in order to really face your fear and fight it is practice and prepare. First of all, put one foot in front of the other by doing the work that that needs to be done. Don’t become overwhelmed by the completion of it. Just take one step in front of the other. I was given a vision and I was totally struck down with fear once the vision came to me to do this album, paying tribute to Mahalia Jackson. My first thoughts were, Sarah, you’re not good enough, there are other good singers out there who could do justice to this album. Also where I wanted to take this album, which is where I am taking it, it’s gone to Ronnie Scott’s three times all sold out shows. It’s gone to the Hundred Club, and they’re asking me back, another sold out show. It’s also gone to the Jazz Festival, a much larger audience again another sold out show and I was invited to take the album to Union Chapel in November.

Sarah Brown: I hope your listeners will hear

me out, and pardon me, because I’m so passionate about this project, which is ‘Sarah Brown sings Mahalia Jackson.’ I’m very, very passionate about it because it embraces the child. The child that saw her mother being beaten by her father. It embraces the child that went to these church gatherings. I embody the soul cry of the ancestors who were shackled. I embody and honour The Wind Rush generation, there grandchildren, some of whom were children of slaves. In my family, my parents, my mother especially, there were 13 of them, and they lived to 100, 110, and so on. My grandfather was born 1801. I’m from a bloodline of people who lived until they were very old. What I’m saying is I did hear and feel the battle cry of those ancestors who were in the bottom of the boat being shipped from their wonderful homeland in Africa to various parts of the Caribbean.

It’s all incredible. That’s the first thing I’d like people to take from this, is to face your fears, head on, by preparing yourself for what you need to do, in order to access the vision you’ve been given. Just take one step at a time and don’t listen to anyone. Listen to the voice of the Universe. It has come from God Almighty. It’s your ordination. This is why you are here.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that slavery was still going on long after it was abolished in Britain and America. It was still happening in the Caribbean. There were still slave owners who weren’t letting go. You can go to some of these big houses today, and you still see them in Jamaica. Actually, I do feel that I, my cry, my song resembles and is born from a long line of ancestral singing that goes even before slavery – it goes to when we were free. I have that sound, and then I also have the sound where, when we were captured and in desperate pain in the bellies of those ships, I also have that sound. TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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YOUNG, READY AND HUNGRY: ARTIST THREEBOMB

READY TO TAKE THE MUSIC INDUSTRY BY STORM

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What is your ethos about life, Threebomb? To be unapologetically yourself. There is no one in this whole world that is exactly like you. Stand out, everyone always wants to fit in, be different.

How did you come up with the name ThreeBomb? Threebomb, which came about in 2016 came from me seeing “too much” and “three times” on facebook when I was making a new account and I was like THREEBOMB there it is, that’s the name. Three Beauties Overcoming Major Barriers. I always referred to it as “Threebomb the movement, it’s a campaign baby” and it’s been growing since.

What drives and motivates you generally and then as an artist? Generally, I’m motivated by the stories of my ancestors and understanding that we have always had to work 1000x harder to just move ahead a single step. As an artist I’m motivated by the ‘youngians.’ I know that kids need a positive role model to look up to. I want them to know you can be fully clothed and have self-respect and still make it far!

Name four people, personal and otherwise who have inspired and influenced you? My mom, my manager, India Arie and Nicki Minaj

What qualities did you learn and take away from them? My mom always instilled in me that I don’t have to grow up too fast. Time is going to move regardless. Stay youthful and filled with life. She also inspires me daily as she is such a hard worker and never makes excuses. My manager, whom I’ve known since age 14 has always instilled hope. He is a go getter all the way, he is beyond focused and always motivates me to keep going. India Arie is one of my favorite artists because she is very soulful, authentic, and whole. The first time I ever heard her song I fell in love with the sounds. It was different and had so much meaning. Nicki is my heart. I wouldn’t call myself a “barb” but I definitely love her style and art. She is dope, her flow is crazy and I love how she has different personalities or alter egos, kind of like Threebomb.

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MATAYA “CLIFFORD” CHEWALUZA A DAUGHTER’S HOMAGE TO THE LATE GREAT MUSICIAN MATAYA “CLIFFORD” CHEWALUZA

would describe my father as an enigmatic, original, inspiring musician’s musician, who was creative, kind, generous and happy. A positive soul, with a great drive in his art and business, living in the moment, full of love and charisma.

A Father’s Love As a father my pop’s was always there for me and believed in me and all my abilities. He was my No.1 support in all my music, and he always encouraged me to reach beyond the stars. He always said I had it all, I just need to get out there and show the world who I am! He supported everything I did (non-music related too) and was always super proud of me in all my life endeavours, including my academic achievements. He always spoke so highly of me to all his friends and peers, a true, genuine, loving father with a huge heart. A great listening ear, whenever I needed to talk to him about any problems too. A real open minded soul, there for everyone, who loved people.

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And as a musician he was always so driven and hard working at his art and craft, producing and writing a large body of musical works over his lifetime, spanning mixed genres, from his African inspired songs speaking his home dialect of ’Shona’, to Afro Rock, Dance & Pop tracks, to beautiful Soulful Ballads. He had his own sound, an eclectic mix of all styles mixed with his infusive energy & beautiful vocals & guitar playing. So, being exposed to all my dad’s songs, since I was born, being the first songs I sang, I was highly inspired & influenced by him since birth! He is my No.1 inspiration & favourite artist in the world. And I am his Star that fell from Heaven ~ Forever.

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Photo Credit: Aram Voves

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UK SOLO ARTIST

GEEGEE TALKS ABOUT HER

LATEST

SOLO SINGLES

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Endnotes

GeeGee AKA Geraldine Reid is part of the all Ladies group The Divettes, sometimes known as The Soca Divettes. However, she is a solo artist in her own right who currently has two solo singles out ‘Hold Ya’ and ‘If You’. Geraldine has one of those nostalgically powerful voices, which can diversify between many genres from soul, rnb, soca to pop and rock. Below we get to hear more about this singing sensation, her inspiration, her aspirations and her new tracks.

Photo Credit: Nadine McKenzie, www.juiceCre8tive.co.uk

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Sponsors of Esther Austin Meet and Greet, Atlanta Event 2023

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ROY HAMILTON JR CONTINUES THE LEGACY OF HIS FATHER

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5. It’s been said your father struggled for quite a long time, before finally receiving a break through. He was writing songs that were being recorded by other artists and when he finally received his first major royalty check, he bought his parents a house, and it’s been said, he then went and had a good long cry. This shows the character of your father, can you elaborate a bit more about that struggle and how you feel it defined his character?

that Solomon Burke said “we were going against the grain of what black entertainers are supposed to do. We were all just supposed to go out and buy red Cadillacs. We weren’t supposed to go out and start talking about spending millions of dollars on building and developing... We were supposed to talk about having parties and good

My dad was always very humble, no matter what amount of success he achieved in the music industry. It took him a while to get his first hit, which wasn’t until 1964, the same year I was born. But he always had a work hard ethic and supported himself by writing songs for other artists until his career took off. I think he stayed true to who he was. He never let the industry change him and his character.

6. Your father was part of a group called ‘The Soul Clan’ who were together briefly between 1966 and 1969?

“The Soul Clan were more than just a group of musicians. Otis Redding, Joe Tex, Wilson Pickett, Don Covay, Ben E. King and Solomon Burke wanted to give back to the black community. They wanted to be in a place financially to support the black community and intended to buy up a lot of property in the South and in the ghettos to re-model them and build homes. Their idea was to pool their talents and resources, and become a positive force within the black community. So they all went and asked Atlantic for 1 million each. However, The Soul Clan members were poorly served by Atlantic, which failed to invest in publicity and actively sabotaged their recording schedule, because it has been alleged times and eatin’ barbecue ribs. You know, pork chops.” TURNINGPOINT: MUSIC & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Did your father ever talk to you about the Soul Clan, and what they meant to him The Soul Clan was a super group that he and other artists such as Solomon Burke, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and others were part of. They wanted to show people that they could come together as black men and do something on a major level in the music industry. It was truly great that they were able to do something on that level and touch so many people through what they were achieving by just giving people hope for a brighter day. The Soul Clan went to try to do something for the community to better it and start businesses. Unfortunately, they told Atlantic Records what they wanted to do with the money. They should have kept that themselves because you can’t always let the left hand know what the right hand’s doing? My dad did a song with that title 103

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7. Many people feel your father was under-rated and there was and still is so much respect for him. What were the qualities that you felt your father exuded that made him so well-respected? He is underrated in the music industry. I feel he never got the recognition he deserved on a lot of levels. However, he touched so many people all over the world through his music. What made him so well respected was that people enjoyed working with him because he had a great personality. He was humble and down-to-earth. A lot of musicians I’ve talked to really enjoyed working with him because of the way he treated people. He treated people, the way he wanted to be treated. I believe this was a unique quality he possessed and I try to possess this too myself.

8. There was quite a bit of rivalry between your father and James Brown who were on the same label at the time, why was that? My dad and James Brown had quite a bit of rivalry over the years because they were both on the same label. The rivalry began over a woman, but also over the microphone tricks that my dad did. James stated that he started doing this, however, people can go to YouTube for more information on that story.

9. You’re an artist in your own right. How would you describe your own personal vibe as an artist and what is your message, through your music, to the world? I just try to create good music that touches people’s souls and inspires them. I want to make music to make you feel good. I also like to do songs that make people think about life and the world around us.

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Little Richard, Hall of Famer and Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient recorded ‘California I’m Comin’ as one of his last iconic recordings in 1970. Little Richard, and The Little Richard band, is a musical odyssey. Featuring talents like bassist Jessie Boyce, drummer Freeman Brown, Johnny ‘Guitar’ Watson, guitarists Glenn Willings and Eddie Fletcher, and the soulful vocals of Clydie King and others, this album is a journey through sound. It represents the culmination of Little Richard’s musical legacy, offering a glimpse into his final creative expressions. With this release, you experience the magic of these legendary artists coming together, shaping a timeless sonic masterpiece.

Link to purchase (pre-order): https://www.ccmusic.com/little-richard-california-im-comin/197644509225 https://www.amazon.com/California-Im-Comin-Little-Richard/dp/B0CNKWC6CB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2CQXQMVD2ME5T&keywords=197644509225&qid =1701270135&sprefix=197644509225%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-1

Link to purchase artwork: www.ozonegoldmedia.com

TurningPoint: Music and Lifestyle: Winter 2023: Legacy Builders