FRONT COVER PHOTO CREDITS: Main Image : Roy Ayers at the Sugar Club Photographer: Photo Credit: Nicholas O’Donnell
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EDITOR’S NOTE
Photo Credit @ LudaBamforth
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome Ladies and Gents. 2021 was for some challenging and painful. For others in spite of the challenges, it was a powerful year of opportunities, manifestation, more self-awareness with the freedom to fly into the realm of possibilities and opportunities. A year of letting go, of re-defining, of taking time to look at the man in the mirror in order to get up close and personal with self. To get real and authentic with where we are at and where we want to be and go. For others it has been a turbulent year. People have lost loved ones, their jobs, homes and their world has been turned upside down so much so it will take a lot of emotional strength, courage and support to get them back on their feet. Remember that saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ but now the village is needed for the village. As we enter into a new phase, a new juncture in our own lives and on a global level, what will the focus in 2022 be? Will it still be one of survival and uncertainty? If so, how are we going to approach life as we go through it? Perception is key to how we view where we are going, in order to move forwards differently, to gain the outcome we want. Can we find the strength, compassion and fortitude to make better, different, greater strides? To recognise that life is short and therefore, to declare what we want and where we want to go in our lives. Achievement is not always about our careers or finances. It may be that you want to travel more, join a dance class, learn to sing, to build better relationships or simply be who you want to be. What’s it going to take to make you discover what makes your soul sing? There are many unsung heroes and sheroes who have been working tirelessly and relentlessly especially since the pandemic hit the globe. Not just our doctors and nurses but our mental health practitioners, and people generally who were drawn together, to look out for each other due to the global situation. People who were bought together through each other’s humanity, to look out for their ‘universal brother or sister’ which was not defined by culture, colour, background nor status but by the situation that we were all forced into, where all of a sudden – we were all truly ‘in this together.’ In this issue the thread is to support each to continue into the future with resilience and hope. The stories shared in this issue will hopefully galvanise you to rise, to keep getting up to become your own hero or shero, not only for your children but your family and community. Become the change you would like to see in the world. Would you like to leave a legacy? We have an exclusive with legend American Soul, Funk, Jazz Composer, Jazz legend, Vibraphone Player Roy Ayers along with his trusted Publicist Brigette Wiley who gives Contribus a greater insight into ‘Uncle’ Roy Ayers. You will also be inspired by words of wisdom from Resident Contrib utor Kwame MA McPherson, who talks about being ‘unsung’ whilst also treating us to a wonderful short story. Then there is Tony Jazz who writes for our Fine Dining Section and it’s always a magical treat to see what gastronomical delights he conjures up. Charles Wright of ‘The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band’ gives us an insight into his latest book ‘Up from Where We’ve come’ the true story of his family as share croppers and the terrible treatment they received and yet there was something in Charles which drove him beyond his circum circumstances to become one of the most successful and celebrated artists of all time. There is humour by our very own Aunt Gertrude, laced with a hint of sarcasm and lots of good old fashioned truth. There is so much more inside these pages. Remember, no matter what – Become the change you wish to see in the world. You never know who’s watching you, or who you are inspiring. Become your own Unsung Hero or Shero because you could be that person to someone else who feels Unseen and Unsung.
Esther Austin Editor-in-Chief
P.S Join me every Sunday between 8pm – 10pm GMT, 3pm – 5pm EST, 12pm – 2pm PST on my show – On the Sofa with Esther. Where I interview legends and pioneers from the entertainment world. Great Music Great Conversation
FB Live: @ SoulTVOfficial
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Esther: When you perform, where do you get the energy from? Roy: I got it from my mother, father. They inspired me, they drove me, I loved it, it was wonderful. Maybe that energy was a way to creativity. It's great to be a creator. Esther: You once toured with Fela Kuti. That must have been quite an experience! Roy: There was really something very powerful and influential about Fela. It was definitely a wonderful spiritual connection and an experience that I’ve never had so much before in my life. Esther: What are some of your own personal beliefs about humanity? Roy: I believe that all people are blessed by God. Esther: If there's someone out there who's thinking about stepping outside their comfort zone, what will be the one piece of advice you would give them? Roy: Live creatively and believe in good and know that good will come to you.
Roy Ayers by Brigette Wiley, Publicist
Photo Credit: Celebrity Interviewer Isaidit
On a personal note I was introduced to Roy Ayers 20 years ago by his best friend who happens to be my uncle Frank Chapman. There are two significant moments that stand out in my relationship with Roy. One 9 | SPRING 2022
was when Roy invited me on stage to sing the song “Everybody Loves The Sunshine“ with him. I was embarrassed because I didn’t know all the words but he made me feel comfortable by whispering the words in my ear. That was an epic and once in a lifetime experience and I will always cherish it. That footage is on YouTube https://youtu.be/euMBNwqYXdg. Another significant moment was when Roy and his wife flew to Chicago to take me and my husband at the time to dinner. During dinner he insisted I call him Papa Roy because he considers me family. From that day forward my relationship with Roy has been awesome and very spiritual. He’s like an uncle to me and there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him. He occasionally will call me not knowing I was at my lowest just to tell me not to give up and that he believes in me. That kind of connection you don’t take for granted because it’s golden and timeless just like his music.I love and appreciate Papa Roy. We are all so blessed to have him. Roy is 81 years old and still traveling and performing around the world and overseas. He is an extraordinary artist and human being. Roy is known as The Godfather of Neo-Soul. You've known Roy for a long time, what are the special attributes that Roy has that makes him unique in your eyes? In all the years I have known Roy I would say that the following attributes make him unique: His ability to not only adapt to new musical idioms and styles but the way he uses his creative genius as a jazz musician to enrich these idioms (like pop and hip-hop) with his own unique style of playing and singing music. As an Independent artist, why do you think Roy has survived in the industry for so long?
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Roy Ayers continues to survive as an independent artist because, as one of the creators of smooth jazz, he continues to be innovative and interactive with new artists coming out of pop and hip-hop music. You mentioned in a previous conversation that Roy is so much more than a musician, can you elaborate on that? I mean he is a cultural Icon who has created a new idiom in music that, like hip-hop, will survive for generations to come. You are the owner/executive producer of a magazine called Chicago Bridge which honours extraordinary people, how did Roy become involved in this? Over twenty years ago I approached Roy about my magazine doing a feature article reviewing his new album on smooth jazz. Roy was so impressed with the review and our presentation of him on the cover of the Chicago Bridge Magazine that he agreed to do many subsequent articles, including one with Erica Badu. He also agreed to join our editorial board. For over two decades now we have covered almost every concert featuring Roy Ayers. Being Roy's publicist what has that journey been like for you? As Roy’s Publicist here in Chicago I have had the incredible experience of getting to know first hand his multi-generational fan base. I have witnessed the love his fan base has for him and how he has culturally enhanced their lives. The legacy that Roy brings to the world, the inspiration of his music and who he is as a person that he brings to the world what is that? Roy takes his music on tours everywhere in the world ie to Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe. He is loved in England as much as he is loved in Nigeria, Japan, South Africa and Brazil.
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Many people feel that Roy is an unsung legend, that he should’ve received more accolades. Why do you feel he wasn't at the forefront as many other artists? To the extent Roy comes out of the same musical jazz tradition as a John Coltrane or Miles Davis one might say that he is an “unsung legend”, or that he like other Black artist didn’t get their rightful place in the “forefront”. But I think Roy has been and is a legend and one of the greatest people’s artist of all time. Roy is an activist, what do you feel is the essence of Roy' around his take on humanity? As a Black artist Roy has not just expressed through his music a call for justice he has taken action like joining the struggle against Apartheid in South Africa.
Roy’s Highlight During Covid 19 New record release June 19,2020 The eight-track album, Roy Ayers: Jazz Is Dead 2 (JID 002) was released on 19 June and is available on vinyl, CD and as a download or stream. It was written and recorded collaboratively by Younge, Shaheed Muhammad and Ayers between 2018 and 2020, and recorded at Younge's Linear Labs studio in Los Angeles.
September 10, 2021 on Roy’s Birthday The Chicago Bridge Magazine honored Roy Ayers with an Extraordinary People Award Trophy & Plaque.
Coming Soon in 2022
Roy will have his own exhibit in the Chicago Bridge Magazine Extraordinary People Hall of Fame Virtual Museum
Roy will be performing at the Jazz Café, London February 2022 http://www.royayers.com
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Esther: The work you do is deep on many different levels. You’re there for people when there is no place else to go and you're reaching into those deep places. You also work with children who've been through abuse and trauma. Tell us a little bit about that. Doc Honeycutt: I work with people and children from all walks of life. I had the opportunity to be a foster parent. When you get these children, they're damaged and you don't know what they've been through, because they’ve been through so much. I knew I couldn't provide anything else, like letting them ride in limousines or the finer things but I knew that I could provide a safe haven for them mentally and physically. So that's what I did. I would bring them in. They wouldn't stay with me because I was like the emergency personnel until they found permanent housing for them. But during that time, I embraced them, and let them know that they were safe with me. If I couldn't give them anything else, I could provide a safe haven at that time and I made sure they got that because once they left my house, they would have all the resources they needed in order to become successful young men and women.
Esther: In a sense you’re giving them space to be acknowledged, however, whether they recognized that or not, is a different thing simply because of where they're coming from. However, you're embracing them with love and even if they never meet someone like you again, they would’ve had a taste of what that feels like, which is really important. You also work with the community as an activist and I believe you're also humanitarian. Share a more about that. Doc Honeycutt: Outside of working with health and wellness and helping people reach their goals, I'm also a mental health advocate. I go out into the community, and talk about mental illness. I let everybody know that this thing is real and there are resources there to help. I tell
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people to check on their people because nobody wants to start a conversation. If your people are looking different, or they're having a different conversation, or they're alienating themselves, let them know you are there for them, and that you can get help. But like I say, nobody wants to start that conversation because people get embarrassed. They're embarrassed because the first thing people say is, ‘oh, you’re crazy’, or ‘pray about it’ or ‘you can beat this thing’. There are resources, people have been damaged mentally long enough and it's time for people that are having these challenges to get help. I've experienced a low place in my life, however, I can't say that I suffer from depression. Everybody has had a bad day. So if we've had a bad day, how does that feel for somebody to be in that dark place every single day. Family members I've watched some of them suffer from this drastic illness, and I wanted to do something about it. Also, if there are any families who have somebody that's suffering, don't sweep it under the rug. They need counselling, because if you're living with somebody that has PTSD, bipolar or suffering from depression, you need to know the triggers because you could say the slightest little thing and it could be a trigger for them. So know the triggers, know what it takes to set somebody off because a lot of people don't know and then they create a fire that they can't put out. I have patients that come to me, and I refer them to mental health specialists. I’m just an advocate but I make sure people get all the resources they need. My go-to place is the Genesis Project. They set you up for health success. You go to them one time, they do all the testing they need, and then they come out to you. They’ll even come to the park, wherever you're comfortable they will meet you. Some people just need somebody that they can hold to their truth, that they can talk to and not be judged. Some people need medication and if you need medication initially then it’s ok, then they can evolve to know that medication and therapy can work together for the good
Esther: I feel the pandemic has exacerbated the situation around mental health because so much has happened within a short space of time. Therefore, how do you keep yourself sane and balanced? Doc Honeycutt: I stay rooted and grounded. I work out. I try to keep a positive attitude and make sure I keep myself around good energy. Our energy is very important and the energy we bring into our lives is very important as well. So I try to make sure that I keep a great balance of who I have around me. I also journal because it’s very important and if you are journaling every day, you can look at what happened on Monday noting that you felt good, but then Tuesday, you feel a little sad, and you can go back and look at maybe why you felt different on those days and narrow down what the trigger was. I’ve written seven books. Writing is very important because you can express yourself ad set goals. When I've reached a goal, I can check it off and pat myself on the back because we don't want to wait for validation from other people. We want to learn how to
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
validate ourselves. We want to learn how to do everything we need within ourselves first. We don't have to depend on anybody else. I don't have to depend on anybody else to make me feel good, to make me know that I'm beautiful.
Esther: Leave us with a quote that you feel will inspire individuals!
Photo Credits:Jason Hart Esther: Love that. You also host a show called ‘Beautiez and Bikerz’ that's on some major platforms. It’s a Bikers’ show which is fabulous. Tell us about your show.
‘You may be going through this now but there is hope for you in the future. Don't think about where you are, think about where you're going’. ‘Don't ever think that you can't. Can't is not a word. If you start a goal and it doesn’t work the first time hit that reset button. Step back. Think about why it didn’t work the first time, change your angles, but don't change your goal and I guarantee you, when you come back at it the next time, you're going to be closer. Sometimes you might have to go back one more time. But don't stop, do not give up because giving up is not an option.’
Doc Honeycutt: My show ‘Beautiez and Bikerz’ started with me doing a documentary called ‘Rude Gal Ryders’ - it's on TV as well. I wanted to express why ladies wanted to ride motorcycles. Everybody had a different story when I interviewed them. The reason I did this was because I wanted to help people. When I first started biking, I’d have people approach me saying things like ‘you're in a motorcycle gang’ or they thought we were wild and crazy because we were on motorcycles. However, I’m a doctor, I’m saving lives every single day. So I wanted to let everybody know that we have lives as bikers. We are women. It used to be a man's game but we changed the face of that and I wanted these ladies to be able to express why they wanted to ride motorcycles. Everybody has a different story. For some it was for health reasons or mental health reasons, whatever their story was, we put it in that documentary. So ‘‘Beautiez and Bikerz’ came from the documentary. People like action more than they do the learning side of things. So I thought to myself, let’s do a reality show and I thought of a good catchy name which depicted us as being beautiful women, doing great things in the community, and we're bikers as well, so I came up with ‘Beautiez and Bikerz’. I shot a two-minute trailer two years ago of ‘Beautiez and Bikerz’ and it went viral. I got picked up to be on a network and I didn't even have one episode. Now the show has taken off. We're on 15 networks. We're on the Spectrum and on cable stations everywhere in five states, including the state that I'm in North Carolina. We're on a Roku, Firestick 103 countries worldwide. It's been amazing.
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Contact Details: https://dochoneycutt.wixsite.com FB: @ doc.honeycutt
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Brenda Wilson The Legacy Continues I
In 2019 in keeping her father’s memory alive, Brenda had the street he grew up on Cottage Grove and Woodward renamed Jackie Wilson Lane in Highland Park, Michigan. She is now working to beautify the street in memory of her father Jackie Wilson and asking help from community and fans
n 2019 in keeping her father’s memory alive, Brenda had the street he grew up on Cottage Grove and Woodward renamed Jackie Wilson Lane in Highland Park, Michigan. She is now working to beautify the street in memory of her father Jackie Wilson and asking help from community and fans.The entrepreneur that she is, Brenda created these entities in order to give a platform and open up opportunities for the youth and young adults to showcase their raw talent in the entertainment and music industry in front of live audiences. Brenda has worked with some of the most established artists and entertainers of our time and puts on ‘The Offsprings of Legends’ every year, an event that takes you down memory lane, where you can reminisce and be serenaded by the offsprings of legends. Her list of accolades reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ and it would take much more than a few pages here to detail them all. A woman who is well respected in the industry and who is very driven, Brenda’s talent reaches even further afield. Her works include putting on Jackie Wilson Tributes and being a Celebrity Judge for talent showcases. Brenda has also worked with many well-known celebrities including Hollywood Actor/Producer Robert Townsend, Dick Clark; Reverend Jesse Jackson; Montel Williams, "Good Times"; Actress Bernnadette Stanis; Gospel Recording Artists: The Clark Sisters; Take Six; Bishop Rance Allen; Legends The Contours; The Stubbs Girls; Legendary James Brown; David Washington/TV Unsung; The Legendary Group -The Fantastic Four; Rob Carter; the late Mary Wilson of the Supremes; Martha Reeves and the Vandellas; Sam Cooke; Marvin Gaye; Berry Gordy; Lou Rawls and many more. Furthermore, Brenda has a history over the past 30 years for the successful production of talent showcases, plays, and concerts for live audiences. This track record is the primary reason the Jackie Wilson Foundation needs to establish the Jackie Wilson Performing Arts Theatre for continued success.
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
SUSTAINABILITY &
RENEWAL William Hinds Behind Solar Fountains in Careenage, Barbados
Written By Gercine Carter gercinecarter@nationnews.com
Photo Credit: Stephen Smith
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
The festive lights of Bridgetown keeping the UNESCO World Heritage site aglow with colour this holiday season, are also illuminating the shimmering spray of water spiralling high up in the air, from fountains playing in the inner basin of the Careenage. It is a new feature that is attracting many people amidst the Christmas hustle and bustle of the city. The nightly spectacle is largely a demonstration of the solar ingenuity of William Hinds, one of Barbados’ foremost proponents of solar energy. In 2004 he introduced Barbados’ first solar electric vehicle, a solar-powered golf cart, which followed his introduction of Barbados’ first solar-powered bicycle. Next came solar shuttles, the first of their kind in Barbados and the Caribbean, on which tours of Bridgetown were conducted. Hinds has labelled his latest venture a “Fountain Salute to Barbados.” He has brought reality to his long held vision of “solar fountains revitalising the Constitution River through the use of renewable energy that is efficient and sustainable while increasing the appeal of Bridgetown as an economically viable, aesthetically pleasing heritage site for business and entertainment.” The solar energy specialist, who in 2004, conceived, designed and built a trident shaped floating fountain that was floated in the Careenage with the assistance of Aquasol Water Heater Company, has now made it possible for Barbadians to experience the delight of six fountains He said from as far back as 2006, he had a vision for fountains in such places as Dolphin and Montefiore (two city fountains) being powered by solar energy. In 2016 he shared his idea with the Ministry of Tourism, while in 2017, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry and David Bynoe of the UNDP-GEF Small Grants Project in Barbados were also approached.
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Hinds said while the BCCI did not respond, the response from Bynoe was “almost immediate”. However, since the UN only funded nongovernment organisations (NGOs), he approached Dr Erwin Edwards, the then president of the Barbados Energy Professionals to allow that NGO to develop the project and in 2018 a 70-page proposal was submitted and negotiated. Edwards and Hinds are cofounders of the NGO, each one with decades of experience and working collaboratively professionally on and off since the 1980s. Giving the background to the project that has now come to fruition, Hinds said a survey of city businesses and visitors was done in 2018 to gauge long t e r m sustainability of the project and that response was positive. M e a n w h i l e , Edwards had also informed the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. (BTII) about the original project and that agency offered to expand it from four to six fountains and suggested bigger fountains, an idea embraced by Minister of Maritime Affairs Kirk Humphrey and Minister of Housing, William Duguid. It was agreed to have the fountains in place for November 30, 2021. Mission accomplished. Hinds and his team were “happy to salute the Government of Barbados on the occasion of transitioning to the republic of Barbados.” The former Harrisonian is a graduate of the UWI Cave Hill Campus. He was awarded the British Government’s Chevening Scholarship in 1984 and gained a Master of Science degree in alternate energy from the University of Reading, which covers the entire spectrum of alternate energy.
William Hinds was bestowed the Barbados Jubilee Honour for Innovation in 2016.
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Photo Credits: Martin Hummel Rupert Hitchcox
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
N
ew styles, New shapes, New modes: That's the role my passion takes for who I am, fashionista Mark Unique Fowler. The Unsung hero is one who masters his own individuality and therefore shines in that uniqueness. Mark Unique Fowler reels with style. His creativity is unique & flamboyant. Mark has been designing and styling for the last 9 years, bringing diversity & individualism to the fore. With all of his images Mark Unique Fowler is defined as a very unique alternative model.
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Gravitas is seeing the best in yourself. Intelligent function meets versatile fashion to empower the modern woman & Man Here Mark shares his concept and journey with you.
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I’m going to take you on a very unique journey
sharing my story with you, drawing you into my conceptual world of alternative fashion styling and designing. As a fashionista trend setter, I will give you an insight into looking at past influences which shaped and heavily influenced me. Bringing the past back into the present with how I present myself and how I see myself being portrayed. My influences for my imagery and the role models I looked up to and admired were from the 70's and 80's. They gave me inspiration and a magical and colourful imagination which inspired my artistic flamboyant flare. I adored and idolised these icons tremendously because they captured my interest and intrigue with their own styling imagery and flamboyant uniqueness. I wanted to be like them so much, because it gave me a feeling of utopia - opening me up to a fantastic new world of colour, Glam, Punk & New Romantic Blitzkids, who were trend setters and role models in their own right.
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"The Blitz Club Was A Burst Of Energy At a Time when The London Scene Seemed So Stagnant" I wanted to explore these wonderful role models, i.e; Marc Bolan, David Bowie, The Sex Pistols & The pioneer of the New Romantic Blitzkid Movement, Mr Steve Strange of Visage. This all made me feel united and empowered, because I realised that it was ok to be different from others which gave me a wonderful feeling of inner courage to stand out from the crowd. The people I idolised were striking iconic fashionista's, who carried their own unique individualistic sensational powerful confidence. Their bold innovative designs drew maximum impact in the visual artistry world, which heavily influenced my styling as Mark Unique Fowler.
"Just Wanting To Be Part Of That Whole Scene Felt It Was Changing Your Life And Everyone Else's Around You"
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
ENTERTAINMENT
Ivy Chanel, The UK Artist who Holds Her Own is Back
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Photo Credit: Ivy Chanel (native chíc look.) The photographer: Ivy Chanel Limited Make up: Bianca Spencer Hat: Indian Joe
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Ivy Chanel is an incredible and indomitable spirit. There is a power in who she is, and music is one of those conduits that weaves its way through her soul and blood. She is a Child of the Creator and a spiritual being of uniqueness. A soul that walks to the rhythm of nature, one who is deeply connected to her Lord and ancestors. She is the voice of many and yet also creates portals of expression for others through her vocal coaching and mentoring sessions, allowing those unspoken moments to become realized and freely released; The Unsung stories and voices of expression. She is a Singer, Songwriter, Topliner, Producer, Dancer, Model, Author, and Vocal Coach – all beautiful manifestations of the soul.
If Ivy were to describe herself in three words, what would they be?
French, Brazilian Portuguese, Hebrew, and Italian)?
Powerful, Resilient, and Love!
On a spiritual level, my voice represents a divine tool to be used carefully by singing lyrics that I mean, as I understand its divine powers. As a messenger and people connector through singing in various languages, I can change the atmosphere into a positive, loving, joyful, and empowered environment through my words and melodies. Music is the 2nd universal language.
Ivy
l e n a h C
Focussing on the singing for a moment – at what age did you find this voice?
What are some of the key messages you wish to share with your audience through your singing and song writing? The messages I share with my audience are as follows:
At the age of five, I found my voice while singing "Yes Jesus Loves Me" as a Photographer: Elizabeth James member of Subject: Ivy Chanel the children's Make up: Christina Hannah choir, “The For more information please visit http://www.ivyBuds of Promise" at chanel.com/ and @ivychaneltheartist on Instagram, my home Twitter, and Facebook. All music are available on all church, Mt. digital outlets. Zion CME Church in Sharon Hill, PA. With the help of my choir director, Mrs. Thelma Haskins, and my parents they helped nurture my voice and encouraged me to share it with the world.
What does this expression of your voice represent on a spiritual level as your musical journey takes you on an adventure by singing different genres and languages (Cherokee - Tsalagi, Spanish, 50 | SPRING 2022
Don't be afraid to express the gift of love to your Creator, Self, Lover, Family, and Fellowman to balance our world. Life is for the living. It's a free gift from The Creator so live it to the fullest with his guidance. Life is what you make it as we have the power to manifest things. You don't have to die to experience Heaven. If you only open your eyes, you can experience it here on earth as The Creator is everywhere and in the creating and blessing business. Your faith is deep, persistent, firm, enriching, strong, genuine, authentic – how would you explain the need to be so? My need for my faith to be so strong, deep, persistent, firm, enriching, assertive, genuine, and authentic is due to who I represent on this earth which is My Heavenly Father, family, and ancestors. So everything I do must be expressed with authenticity, a level of excellence at the Creator's standards that make it extraordinary for others to experience, and seven generations to follow and be inspired.
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF SOLOMON BURKE Brothers - Gemini, Prince and Verne, I learned everything I know from my brother Verne and I believe that he is the greatest singer the world has not yet heard. He was lead singer of the Sons and Daughters of Solomon Burke when we were kids and I still believe he has that ‘IT’ factor. Verne, aka "Kyrell" was in the Navy and has a degree in Accounting and is the voice of the family along with Melanie Burke. They were lead singers in our youth in the group my father created. Kyrell also played college basketball. He is 6'7 and has always been my role model when it comes to music. He is an amazing writer and has tremendous vocal range.
Carolyn. Prince is multi-faceted and can write a song in an hour i.e. gospel, R&B, Pop, Rap, Blues, and of course Soul. Just tell him what you want, put him in a studio and he will come out with a hit record. Prince and I are a year apart. We grew up together and he was my best friend when we were young and we still have an amazing friendship till this day. I look up to him even though he is shorter (smile).
The Full story will be told in Gemini’s biography ‘GEMINI: THE SON OF A LEGEND’ OUT IN 2022 Prince is an amazing writer and can write a song in an hour. Prince has the most incredible energy and is the most energetic of us all. He has replaced our energetic sister
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Socials: FB @ gemini.burke
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
The Legacy Continues Photo Credits:
Photographer Katie Kagan 58| SPRING 2022
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
I did it.I met Darryl in 2018 and that was when I started writing as well. This was also when I recorded songs with my friend Gabriel Crenshaw.’ To see where Castella has come from in such a short space of time is incredible. There was a transitionary period where her job, as an Executive, came to a rather abrupt end and then the Pandemic kicked in. This was the time for Castella to fall into her dreams Castella is one of those Indie artists, like and she hasn’t stopped since. This many, who are driven, determined to dynamic woman used this opportunity become and make a success of a career to present herself to the world. that started only three (3) years ago, and being visible to the international In 2020 Castella started to break market. She is a Singer/Songwriter, through as she says “The pandemic was International Recording Artist and CST and still is terrible. I lost many friends Show Artist of the Year. who were dear to me. However, there were two in particular who were incredCastella says ‘I’m someone who is just a ibly supportive of me and my music. regular girl, singer, songwriter, mother, One of those friends was the catalyst for wife, sister and sometimes a boss. I am me to meet my artist consultant who some of everything. A regular ordinary introduced me to my radio promoter girl who has been singing all her life and the other was my greatest fan. where someone planted a seed that has Everything I put out he would always I remember been growing and I am enjoying that say ‘Congratulations’. gift’. putting a snippet of my video for ‘Let Me Love You out’ and he wanted to The person who planted that seed is know where the rest was. I remember Darryl Swann, a Record Producer. ‘The telling him to hold on, but he passed day I met him’ says Castella ‘was when I away before the full video was released. was doing back-up singing with a He was supportive even though he friend. We were talking in the studio wasn’t well. The pandemic has been and Darryl asked me if I had ever interesting in that it slowed the world considered doing a 3 song EP. I had down just enough to where they saw never thought about that and he told someone like me. I don’t think if things me it would be the natural progression were normal people would’ve paid me for someone like me who was passion- any attention”. ate about singing. He asked whether I wrote lyrics and melodies. At the time I Castella was part of so many live hadn’t but I didn’t say no because I streams during that time and was wasn’t sure, but actually I realised that I interviewed a lot, and she loved every do and I’m glad I took that challenge. minute of it. In spite of everything Darryl made it all seem so easy and that’s happened the past two years she something I needed to do, and I’m glad has thrived. She’s lost friends, there’s
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still a lot of uncertainty in the world and as an artist she’s still creating good music that’s touching lives, for people to enjoy and appreciate which is a great way to distract people from what’s happening, as Castella too manages her own personal stuff. I therefore wanted to know what this felt like to her? “Sometimes I feel a little guilty, as I continue to live my life whilst some people are really sick or have passed away. I even lost my uncle, but you have to keep on going. I know that the people who I’ve lost, would not want me to stop, they would want me to keep going, to continue to use my gifts. I have to remain strong and focused for those close to me as a ray of hope to keep striving and living.” I hope Castella’s journey serves to open up a door within you for you to discover your Unsung self. What is it that you are prepared to champion through in order to become or to do? Within the space of 3 short years, this incredible Indie artist ended 2021 on an incredible note and as we move through the beginnings of 2022, there is so much more to come.
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
released
was
performance
had something about them knew it was my band they did not
Charles Wright For more information on Charles Wright Visit: https://expressyourself.net/
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
experiences eled
cated
s
Tony Jazz
Photo Credit: Jasmin Peart
Lifestyle Manager / Professional Butler Butlers of Mayfair Bespoke Events Ltd tonyjazziam@gmail.com https://www.butlersofmayfairbespokeevents.co.uk/
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Curry Foodie: A One-Stop Shop for Food Lovers
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
Lubna S Haq is a tenacious,
determined, loving woman. Someone who loves life and who loves music and loves food just as much. She is one of those Unsung individuals who has graciously gone through life, with a strength not to give in or give-up. A woman who has lived with MS for 40 years and who has finally achieved a long-time dream The Curry Foodie website by Lubna S Haq, UK. Lubna shares her passion of cooking and making curry dishes that are a huge part of her culture. A dedication to her late mother who loved cooking, Lubna is continuing the dream and her passion and love of cooking curry. 89| SPRING 2022
You recently launched a fabulous new website called ‘Curry Foodie’. I know that this project has been a labour of love for quite a while, what is it that kept you going with your vision to finally have reached this place? When I was a teenager, I always used to help my mother in the kitchen, watching and learning how she would use different spices and foods for many dishes. The Curry Foodie website is a tribute to my mother to be remembered for her talent cooking delicious foods.
You have a love of food and cooking where does that stem from? I realised how much I loved to cook with my mother and wanted to share her recipes for others to enjoy.
Contact details: Lubna S Haq E-mail: lubna@zen.co.uk https://curryfoodie.com
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
What is it about curry food that inspires you? When writing up the glossary for herbs and spices, it’s was so interesting to discover how you can marry the different spices and herbs with foods to create a delicious flavour.
I see you as one of those Unsung heros, who have silently in the background been chipping away at your dream for a long time, what does it feel like to have finally bought your dream to life? I am happy to stay in the background but when you talk about food, the subject brings people together. With my husband’s encouragement and Office Innovation, the company who helped me to create Curry Foodie, my dream has come true!
What are some of the challenges you have faced to get to this place and how did you cope with them? In my late 20’s I lost my eyesight for a while, subsequently I was diagnosed with MS however, fortunately my eyesight was restored. Now, thanks to medication and exercise, 40 years later, I can carry on driving and I’m still walking, although a little slower now!
Cooking is like art, it’s creative, it’s involving, it’s a discipline, it’s a passion and it’s a love of doing what you love, what does it mean to Lubna?
cooking, for example garam masala (a mix of warming spices) are used when cooking a curry to enhance flavour however, Indian five spice (panch phoran) mix is used as a rub or when pickling vegetables, however this particular mix of spices can also be added to curries. It’s always better to use fresh herbs and spices. To prepare a good base for a curry requires cumin powder, ground coriander, red chilli powder, turmeric powder and salt along-with, onions, ginger, garlic, chopped tomatoes, green chillies and green coriander to garnish. Of course, the amount of chilli you add depends on how hot you like your food! These ingredients will make a good curry.
Herbs and spices obviously have health benefits as well can you share a few? The following herbs and spices have health benefits: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory qualities which can help to reduce pain and swelling for people with arthritis. Cinnamon can help to lower blood sugar levels. Garlic can protect your heart from heart disease Ginger is used as a supplement to treat digestive problems Cumin may help people to control their cholesterol level.
Is there a cardinal rule of what not to mix together when creating a curry or can someone get as creative as they wish?
When cooking curries from scratch, takes time but the satisfaction of seeing empty dinner plates after a meal and the joy that guests have enjoyed their meal, makes me very happy.
There is no cardinal rule when cooking a curry as you can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste, if you prefer a milder curry, you can add natural yoghurt to the sauce or if you like your curry to be hot, add extra green chillies.
Attending Birmingham College of Food and attaining a Master of Arts degree from the University of Birmingham which helped you research and write about your interests in Asian cuisine, how did attending this course further enhance what you already knew?
For many people cooking can be a chore, whilst similarly to many it’s a joy and love and also quite therapeutic, can you explain what cooking means to you emotionally?
Researching about spices and foods for my MA helped me develop my knowledge further, discovering how spices can also help greatly with your health.
What is the importance of good herbs and spices in a curry and is there a base from which all curries are created from? It’s important to use the right spices for the food you are
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I don’t see cooking as a chore, in fact when I’m in the kitchen, I also listen to music which really makes me feel very happy. When the meal is served, I feel good and satisfied that the meal is being enjoyed.
What is the long-term vision you have for Curry Foodie? My long term vision for Curry Foodie would be for people who enjoy, cooking and eating Indian food, to be able to learn to cook from Chefs as well. On the Curry Foodie website, Chef Monisha Bharadwaj has a cookery school and offers cookery courses.
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
ART
Driving through Challenges Creating Miracles through
Art
My name is Abigail Roscoe. I'm an autistic and physically disabled illustrator, who recently completed my Bachelor's degree in illustration and animation. I'm Canadian/Mexican, and moved to Europe for my Bachelor's degree in Illustration and Animation and will be returning to Canada in the near future. Recently, I wrote and illustrated my first book, Yuka’s Way Home. To work on this book, I travelled to Northern Norway to work directly with the Sami reindeer herders featured in my book. Through this book, I was discovered by a Caribou Conservation Breeding Foundation, an organisation in Canada. I am now living out my dream of being able to make artwork that also bene-fits animal conservation, as I illustrate educational material for CCBF to help raise awareness about caribou, their land and the species that benefit from their conservation too.
Photo Credit: Silvan Auf Der Maur 95| SPRING 2022
TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
was a difficult year to stay moti-vated with the circumstances in the world around us, and then the personal issues that arose certainly didn't make that any easier. But I had to keep going, and make something new- and so I did. I began working on several new stories and book ideas which I am excited about, and I can't wait to illustrate these books and get them out into the world. Subjects for upcoming books include animal conservation and education, Indi-genous stories, autism self love, invisible disabilities, a fantasy story, and a scary cryptid mystery book for older kids. Since then, I've gotten a Publisher for my second book I wrote, which is about Mexican Otomí Indigenous hand crafts, and has a publishing date for 2024. Until then, I plan on working on more of my own titles, and to continue finding inspiration through what I love the most, nature, and the amazing creatures and stories that surround us. Unfortunately, I received some life altering news regarding my diagnosis right after I launched my campaign for my book, and right before graduating. My constant pain and loss of mobility finally had an answer and a diagnosis. I knew what was going on in my body, and that was a relief. But with this diagnosis also came a grieving period, this pain wasn't a temporary problem that would hopefully go away, but rather a chronic, constant condition that is here to stay. Needless to say, this grief was a lot to cope with. Dealing with the loss of my health which at some point in my life I took for granted was a process that forced me to look at my stress and life in a different way. I grieved what I lost, but I am thankful for what I have. It
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TURNING POINT YOUR LIFESTYLE,YOUR WELL-BEING
SPIRITUAL OASIS The Unsung Hero
Photo Credit@ Ayo IShutter FB: ayo.ishutter
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