Michael St. John brings the life of Hollywood through the backdoor

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• THE TUNES OF TABITHA DUNCAN, DARIUS MCCRARY AND HASHAQUEENA • BE AWARE OF PALACE TRAFFIC

• JEFFERY MILLER’S REALITY OF RELATIONSHIPS • LEVI’S 2ND ID

Michael St. John HOLLYWOOD THROUGH THE BACK DOOR

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Masthead Founder’s Page Letters Lisa Battise Angel’s Hour of Bondage Little League Talk with Jeffery Love Connection Michael St. John Gene Anderson Kirk Khan Tabitha Duncan Darius McCrary Black Zack Hair Ms. Candi Pinhead Kimberly West Fashion Pastor Jamal Bryant The Art of Michael Angelo Chester The Art of Thomas Blackshear OASIS/Montagé • February 2020 1

Montagé The Lifestyle magazine that takes you on a journey into Fashion, Arts, Entertainment, Religion, Health Beauty, Fitness, News, and Sports CLARICE CAROLYN JONES Founder/Editor-In-Chief LEVI MILLER

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A Hollywood View

THE JANUARY 2020 ISSUE ENCOMPASSES a fresh perspective of how artist leave their legacy. It was hard for me to embrace being an artist but as I take a history check on those that have come and gone, I my works on this earth does speak for me. Does your walk, your talk, and all that you have done speak for you? Many of us don’t understand why God created us. It is important to know we are His servants and we must show love. Speaking of love, Oasis Montagé has a new television show called, The Montagé Love Connection. The show host are Clarice Carolyn Herring Jones, Lisa Battise, Tabitha Duncan, Marvis Kelly and the dating expert Jeffery Miller.

In this New Year’s issue, we are taking you through a journalist eye of their perspective and their life. He is a wonderful singer, author, actor, editor, professor, and he’s my personal all-time Icon. This deep voice man is the one of a kind artist, Michael St. John. Michael is logistical legend that should always be remembered for his dramatic craft and never forgotten for his Hollywood love.

In the news, our nation is dealing with a sextrafficking epidemic. In 2019 during the super bowl, Pastor Jamal Bryant’s show, Power to the People, introduced testimonies of 2 sextracking survivors, Hashaqueena Earth and Chiquita Tillman. Their stories along with many others, brought on the necessity to bring awareness. The 2 organizations; Miller Montagé (Levi Miller) and The Seed Life Foundation are making a difference by training sextrafficking abolitionist.

In an article, the entertainment editor, Lisa Battise introduces a new type of rap. The music and the type of is by an artist named Pinhead; aka Johnnie Lee Wesley.

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Pinhead is a veteran and his new rap has it’s own majestic flavor. Legacy and honor also go out to the award-winning artist: Hollywood actors Kirk Khan, Darius McCrary and singers Gene Anderson and Tabitha Duncan (Keith Sweat’s group, Kut Klose.)

The artwork in this features Kimberly West fine fashions, and beautiful artwork by Colorado’s sculptist, Thomas Blackshear and a touch of classy portrait art by Michael Angelo Chester.

Clarice Carolyn Jones

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Pastor Jamal Bryant I absolutely loved the issue with Pastor Jamal Bryant. I have been following pastor for years and he is a man that preaches the word and is on fire for the Lord. I love Pastor Bryant. If any man can make a difference, it’s him.

Jackie Taylor, Baltimore, MD

Oh wow, Pastor Bryant is my pastor from Baltimore. I was heartbroken when I heard he left and moved to pastor the church in Atlanta. I am sure his new job taking over New Birth is challenging but if anyone can turn that church around, it’s Pastor Bryant. He is definitely loved here in Baltimore and we truly miss him. Let him know his staff miss him a whole lot. He’s truly a down to earth man of God. I love it when he delivers the word. Such a strong man who has endured a lot and stood on the promises of God. I love you pastor.

LISA, BALTIMORE, MD Wow, what a beautiful magazine. I don’t see many on the shelves very much. It’s wonderful to see a magazine with beautiful pictures and it is well put together. This is a real professional magazine. It reminds me of Ebony or Essence.

I hope Oasis Montagé Magazine sticks around. I plan on getting my subscription.

SHEILA JACKSON, ATLANTA, GA

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The articles in this magazine are well written. I really enjoyed the spread on Pastor Bryant. That is one fine dressing brotha. He wears it well. He needs to be a model cause can’t nobody touch his fine designs.

JACKI, MISSISSIPPI

That article about Crack in the House was pretty good. I thought they were talking about crack cocaine but it was about how our boys and now men sag their pants. Don’t nobody want to see your draws. That’s so disgusting. I am glad certain states are fining men that sag. Now a days the women are starting to sag. I just don’t get it. It is a disrespect and all they are doing is making a statement. It’s apparent they were once in prison and had to bend over for another prisoner. All I can do is shake my head.

CHERISE NOBLE, COLORADO Hi Oasis Montagé Magazine editors,

Decent and in Order

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LISA BATTISE has been VP Executive of Oasis Montagé Magazine since 2017; she’s a strong; educated; business oriented African-American woman with a well versatile background in Corporate and Entertainment. She resides in beautiful; historical Savannah, Georgia, where she teaches the art of dance. Being a mother of three (3) beautiful young independent; educated and loving daughters is what excites Lisa to continue to strive for excellence, not just for her but to encourage her girls to never say it cannot be achieved.

Lisa is CEO/Founder & Owner of her Legal Service business (LMB Enterprises, LLC), she’s been able to provide a great service of educating in credit restoration; civil and family law; with over 28 years of Law practice and experience.

Although Lisa thought that practicing law was going to be her only passion, in 2017 she had the distinct pleasure of meeting Mrs. Carolyn Herring Jones, which she says was one of the most extraordinary life changing moments for her. Mrs. Jones is a Playwright/Director and phenomenal Actress. Lisa never imagined that from that first meeting some years ago, that they would have become, not just sisters in Christ; but true friends. In meeting Mrs. Carolyn, Lisa didn’t have any background in being an Actress and began her new journey with Mrs. Jones as her Assistant Director. Mrs. Jones saw a talent in Lisa that she didn’t even see herself. And so began the lighted path for them both.

Lisa studied and showed herself approved as the Assistant Director; taking everything in and dedicating her time and energy into what her now Mentor and friend, had prepared her for. Pushing forward in time; loyalty; and compassion for the love of the Stage Plays; Mrs. Jones saw another talent in Lisa and began training her in acting, and so opened a new beginning. Lisa became one of the lead Actresses and Artist in her Stage Plays “Angels Palace”, which is based upon true life story of sex/human-trafficking; her role is “Honey”; she also is Understudy for lead role “Madame Shai”. She is lead Actress in “Women Shoptalk While Real Men Wait”, true life story of domestic violence, her role is “Rain”. Both of these Stage Plays have brought so much life to her, being able to live through these true life stories is what drives her to bring the awareness of these tragic events that are happening today. And recently, she is also the lead Actress in “Gift of Giving” which a great old school 1970’s Good Time Christmas Play, her role is “Mary”. Lisa states that God has truly taught her to never place limitations on what he can do thru you. And know that your Angel as mine “Mrs. Jones”; is right beside you, encouraging you for your purpose.

With the respect and trust that Mrs. Jones has for me, I was employed with Mrs. Jones/Oasis Montagé Ministries and with a great man, Mr. Levi Miller of Miller Montagé Productions as their “Executive Legal Administrator”; “VP of Oasis Montagé Magazine” and “Assistant Stage Play

Director”. I’m very humbled to be such a great representative for Mrs. Jones and Mr. Levi Miller in every aspect.

Lisa has been awarded so many blessed opportunities and have met and currently working with some phenomenal people through her journey with Miller Montagé Productions and Oasis Montagé, such as Kirk KellyKahn; Michael St. John; Tabitha Duncan “Kut Klose”; Donna Allen; Zelda Thomas; Gene Anderson “Poo Poo Man”; Jessie James; Johnnie Lee Wesley, II “PinHead”; Black Zack; Cheff Da Spankuman; Tony Terry; Dave Tolliver; All of her Cast Members/Family each one name by name and so many other amazing Actors, Actresses, Recording Artists, Radio/ TV Shows in and out of Atlanta, GA and Hollywood, CA. All of whom are stars in her eyes, where she says there’s no little “I’s” and big “U’s”. Everyone on and off of the stage are special to her and will be her friend forever.

She says this is her moto “Decent and In Order”, as long as you have this there is No such thing as failure. Family is everything Lisa, not just her personal family but everyone that she calls her closet friends! Her everyday prayer is that God continues to keep her humble; never harden her heart and healthy. She gives blessings for you all: Mr. and Mrs. Jones; Mr. & Mrs. Miller; Oasis Montagé Ministries; Miller Montagé Productions, Angels Palace; Gift of Giving and Shoptalk Family.

OASIS/Montagé • February 2020 7

Angel’s Hour of

Bondage

By Clarice Carolyn Herring

My beautiful dear Angel take my hand and let’s share a life of love. I miss you so much and I am miserable without you. Give me your address and I will send you money, I buy you flowers and give you the world. Angel, please come back to me. My heart is empty and I need you.

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“Jack, I was on the computer and I saw the contract between you and my mom. That explains why you pay mom’s bills and give her $500.00 every day. This is an exchange for my having sex with you.”

“Yasmine, we have a relationship and I love you.”

“My name is Angel, you named me Yasmine. I can’t do this anymore with you. I’ve been pregnant twice, tried to kill myself multiple times and I hate having sex 7 times a day. I want out!”

“Yasmine, I mean Angel, my love for you is real. Our arrangement can’t be broken. You and I gave vows. Angel, you can’t leave me.”

“Yasmine, I overheard the conversation between you and Jack.

Yasmine I’m your mother and I would never contract you for sex.

What are you talking about, there is no contract.”

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“Mom, you got me hooked on drugs and when I got pregnant

by Jack, you made me abort the baby at some strange lady’s house.

I’m only 16yrs old and I want to be a normal teenager; I want to go to school with kids my own age. I don’t want to live life like this anymore. I have been in a relationship with Jack since I was 13 years old. I want out! No more lies, secrets and forcing me and my siblings to be street performers. Mom we are leaving to stay with our dad. We want out and we’re not coming back.”

Angel is a very sad case like many children who are snatched and taken into a life of bondage. The sextrafficking epidemic entraps young girls and boys every day. These children are forced into child labor and held in bondage for the love of money.

During the 2019 Super Bowl, Pastor Bryant of New Birth Church, Lithonia, Georgia aired a show on sextrafficking. This was an effort to bring awareness and deter trafficking. Angel appeared on Pastor Bryant’s show and told her story on national television.

Oasis Montage is a non-profit organization that has produced a sextrafficking awareness stage play called Angels Palace. In an effort to maximize awareness, they are performing the play at highly reported locations. The top 3 states ranking locations for human trafficking are: California, Michigan, and Georgia.

One of the ways the young lady Angel was obtained by Jack was through the grooming stage. Angel was made to feel loved, admired, offered stardom, job security and to be rewarded. After Angel became comfortable with Jack, he then moved into the seasoning stage. In the seasoning stage, Angel had to perform sexual acts for Jack; her pimp. This was the way Jack kept her affection using the Stockholm syndrome. Once Jack has her affection; even forced marital vows, Angel found it hard to escape.

Angel’s aunt and uncle in another state, helped her get into CSEC residential treatment at Devereux. It has been 6 months and Angel has graduated from the facility. As a leader she has chosen to be an advocate for young girls. Angel is happy to be free, out of bondage and finally living her life in an arc of safety.

If you suspect anyone being trafficked, or any suspicion, contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1(888)-373-7888.

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Little League

By Clarice Carolyn Jones

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LEVI MILLER GREW UP IN THE DEEP SOUTH during the Jim Crowe Era. When he was just 12 years old, he joined a neighborhood little team, named “Simpson Trojans” which turned out to be the best little team in the nation. His little league team was denied by the system to play in the Little League World Series and they faced many challenges, for the system denied them the opportunity to go on to become the 1s black team to participate in the Little League World Series. Even though all the black officials fought for them, they were still denied. He still gets together with his ball team and they reminisce and still mentor and encourage the youth today.

OASIS/Montagé • February 2020 11

After a stint in the Army Levi still returned back to his first love of baseball and becoming a mentor to both young girls and young boys Athletic Teams by helping them to reach their goals, even taking bill money to make sure his players had everything that kids had with 2 parents.

Later during the year 1999, he began to feel effects from the chemical agent he came in contact with, that left him disabled. Levi is a disable Vietnam and Korean Vet who served his country well in the late 60’s and early 70’s and earned the rank of Sergeant in a very short time from the battlefield. Mr. Levi is a huge advocate for the Veterans, helping and supporting in all ways he can.

Today Levi Miller is the founder of EULMAM Concert /Broadway Promoters and the Executive Producer of the Broadway Play “I Feel Sin Comin’ On”. Levi is also the Founder and Owner of the Internet Radio Station WLMR-DB Radio and Co-Owner of Apollo Travel & Tours. Mr. Levi is Co-Founder with Carolyn Herring Moore of Miller Montage Productions TV. Mr. Levi Miller is an amazing man; husband to his beautiful wife; Manager and Promoter. We’re looking forward to seeing all the amazing avenues to come.

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The Royalty Coffee

Carefully selected and roasted for flavor, antioxidants, and health.

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JAMES C. LEWIS

Talk With Jeffery A Voice for the Men (and SOME women)

A

AS A CERTIFIED RELATIONSHIP COACH, JEFFERY coaches men by accentuating their successes through positive exercises. This has enabled a very effective coaching methodology to be created and used for building a man’s confidence from within. While coaching men, it has become clear that one of the biggest areas of opportunity is the lack of understanding of what men are or the lack of effective communication of what men need. We will address that here.

Though there are many areas of opportunity for men, I truly believe that some women don’t listen and in many cases, some of those women just want to be heard.

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features

Michael St. John

The Hollywood Legend and Powerful Source of Survival

By Kimberly West

MICHAEL ST. JOHN is a legendary actor, writer, and composer.

He is the author of the bestselling memoir, Hollywood Through The Backdoor.

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Many have known him according to his A-List projects such as the Broadway Musical Carmen Jones starring Dorothy Dandridge and his influential impact on the Hollywood circuit.

He is not only a trailblazer but also a mentor to several up-in-coming entertainers.

With numerous celebrity acquaintances such as the daughter of Judy Garland and close connections, he has made an impact in the southern region serving as a Director and Actor for the Oasis Montagé stage plays, Angels Palace, Women ShopTalk While Real Men Wait, and The Gift of Giving.

Michael St. John’s success was not always paved. It was created through a colorful past while surviving the odds of being one of the first African-American men in Hollywood and subjected to unimaginable trauma.

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features

Oasis Montagé Magazine had the opportunity to learn more about his intricate past, present, and optimistic future.

The black teachers representing the Phyllis Wheatly faculty were determined to allow the young students to get to know and understand what kind of world that young ambitious girls and boys of color must be aware of, especially when facing the myriad social and cultural limitations set since 1865, the freeing of the slaves.

Because I was so influenced by Paul Robeson and Marian Anderson, music singing was at the top of the list of reaching some kind of achievement and acceptance.

At age 12, I was aware of two wonderful shows, The Paul Whiteman TV Teen Club (WFIL-NBC) and radio show hosted by Stan Lee Broza (WCAU -CBS) was auditioning and there were no young people of color represented on the weekly shows. The Whiteman TV show was aired on Saturday and the Stan Lee Broza “Children Hour” was heard on Sundays. I decided to audition for both the TV and radio shows. Fortunately, I was accepted by both the radio and TV shows; resulting in my being seen and heard twice weekly. From that point the rest is history. However, if there had not been so many opportunities offered in my direction as a performer, I would have enjoyed becoming a fulltime teacher or professor in a public school or college.

Hearing the fascinating stories about Marian Anderson, Paul Robeson, Roland Hayes, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Josephine Baker, Phyllis Wheatley and of course, Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Richard Wright, the poetry; music sprinkled the school day with the beginning of singing the Negro National Anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing” I was seriously affected by these iconic voices representing the arts as well as contributions in science, literature and all the other intellectual challenges available.

Tell me, what was the inspiration behind your current project?

The inspiration behind my current project is based on my life challenge of survival in an industry that had and still does wave signs of NO ENTRANCE! My book Hollywood Through The Back Door being developed as a miniseries explores the effect of being raped at age six and meeting challenge of staying alive in one of the toughest businesses in the world. Bette Davis once told me, “If one door closes

If you weren’t famous, what would you be doing right now?

When thinking about the years growing up in the small town of Morton, Pennsylvania located about 10 miles outside of Philadelphia during the Second World War, the impact of that alone shaped much of my hopes and dreams for the future.

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shut”, simply kick another one open, simple as that!” Josephine put her arms around me when I visited her in her dressing after a show at the Earl Theater in Philly, “Darling!,” she laughed, “There will always be those who will wish you’d simply disappear, but that’s something one gets used to; you just have to turn and keep on trying to keep the audience laughing or crying.”

How has your influence with the stage plays Angel’s Palace and Women ShopTalk While Real Men Wait made an impact on the play production?

Because I have since the beginning insisted on a level of reality when dealing with characters of color or other cultures involving the stage and definitely the screen, fortunately, there have been several realistic portrayals of families or people of color in a very realistic, respectful way. This is why I was so impressed with the production of Angel’s Palace and Women Shop Talk While Real Men Wait. One can easily identify with many of the characters and feelings projected in the play.

Then too, there was such a natural dignity and humanness which permeated the group which,

OASIS/Montage • February 2020 21

features

of course, made it very easy to have a special place for each of them in your artistic memory bag In your previous memoir, Hollywood Through The Backdoor, you shared intimate details. Did this bring awareness to issues associated with entering the entertainment industry?

In writing my memoir Hollywood Through The Backdoor, it was important to unleash as much truth and reality possible because, after all, it represents your life and how you were able to survive. When I was forced to escape the ire and hatred of the KKK huddled in my first year, being voted the first black president of a freshmen class (Earlham College, Indiana), it was easy to handle much of the ensuing Hollywood experiences I eventually had to face and deal, simply based on the reason I ended up in the place where they recreated life on celluloid.

I quickly acknowledge that writing about my life was extremely difficult. I spent much time attempting to describe the rape scene involving an older man while my father, an alcoholic, simply continued watching it happen and emptying his bottle of booze. Another extremely emotional turn was reliving my first major Hollywood party involving some of the most powerful and talented people in the industry i.e., Grace Kelly, Rock Hudson, Charles Laughton, and so many others. What happened at the party has left its mark, one which still evokes nightmares and tears.

Aside from your own projects, what’s your favorite movie?

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My favorite feel has always been The Corn is Green starring my dear friend and sponsor Bette Davis. The film is about an Irish teach (Miss Davis) who comes to a small mining town and meets a very young boy with very high prospects of being selected for a scholarship to attend Oxford. The way she persuaded him to believe that he could achieve anything he wanted, deeply wanted and desired. Nothing was impossible – BELIEVING was a powerful force. By the end of the film, I felt as if I could conquer the world, simply because I believed it could happen. Another film favorite has always been Orson Wells Citizen Kane. When meeting him I had tons of questions for this genius. I must admit Orson was quite taken with our session.

What impact do you want to leave on the world as you mentor others in the entertainment industry?

As I mentor other actors, writers, musicians, I try desperately to make them understand that even though you have a wealth of talent, it is still necessary to be as prepared as possible for the many challenges it takes to reach a level of industry acceptance. It requires knowing who you are and what you might need to become even better; in other words pure objectivity which something to handle at times.

As a very well known Hollywood actor, what would you like to remember most about you?

I hope people who respect and have a passion for music, theatre, films, and writing will remember me as a straight shooter who had a passion for people who hunger to achieve and paint life in such shades, which can be a powerful force of survival.

Coca Cola Have a Coke and a Smile

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features

The Rapping Legend of

Gene Anderson

By Clarice Carolyn Jones

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The Jumping and Spinning choreography of Gene Anderson, “King of Hollywood Blues; Poo-Poo Man,” is well known as moniker performer of greatness.

Anderson began in Las Vegas when comedian Redd Fox was headlining at the Hacienda. Foxx took him under his wing and mentored him as a young man. The charisma, comedy and singing ability put Anderson right in the middle of an era when Vegas only let the best artist perform in the showrooms. Foxx took young Anderson under his wing and this was the start of his incredible P-Funk legacy. Nationally, Anderson continues to shine especially with his most recent Christmas concert performance. The performance with Miller Montage in Jonesboro, Georgia held the attention of the new hip hop audience of Young Joc. The hip hop audience found Anderson to be an honorable legend and requested the return for another P-Funk performance.

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For many years, Anderson performed with George Clinton as a lead singer in the Parliament funkadelic show. The Parliament songs like Flashlight, for years, was a billboard hit. Anderson’s music is well crafted and coincides with his choreographed performance. His commitment and love for the music industry is well received by thousands of supporters.

The legend of rapper, Gene Anderson shines through the works of his new book, The Birth of Hip Hop; Rapper’s Delight.

The book is a historical monarch for today’s rap artist. This book outlines and defines the meaning of rap and the fame of Gene Anderson’s living legend.

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features

Kirk the

Cambridge Player

By Clarice Carolyn Jones

“IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE YOU CAME FROM, you won’t know where you are headed in life,” motto of Cambridge Player, President Kirk Kelley-Khan.

Kirk a Texas young man, grew up at an early age in the Hollywood spotlight alongside of his Oscar Nominated grandmother, Juanita Moore. In his Hollywood training, legends Esther Rolle, Juanita Moore, Helen Martin, Lynn Hamilton, Royce Wallace, Isabel Sandford, Beah Richards, Maya Angelou and Edmund J. Cambridge gave Kirk a wealth of Broadway knowledge and expertise.

Kirk’s grandmother and Cambridge founder, Juanita Moore is the 3rd African American who was nominated for Oscar supporting-actress of the movie, Imitation of Life. In an interview with L.A. Times, Kirk said that just hours before his grandmother Juanita Moore died, she was drilling him on his lines for an upcoming part.

“That’s horrible!” she told him in a phone conversation.

“They’re going to boo you out of the theater!” When he tried it again, she relented. “Ah, that gives me chills; And I don’t have to see your expression: I’m Juanita Moore, and I know what I hear.”

Kirk loves the stage he is a very dedicated focused actor. When he read for the part in Michael St. John’s stage play I Feel Sin Comin On, he realized the part was extraordinary because it was a true story. Kirk says, “When reading the Broadway play, I understood the main character Sonny and his many levels of frustration involving his dreams. Sony’s battle of sexual confusion and attempts to ignore the realities was a force to recognize during his unending attempts at survival.”

Another one of Kirk’s soon to come parts is in the stage play, Women Shoptalk while Real Men wait. He is playing the part of a business lawyer Chauncey whose assignment is to bail out his younger brother’s (Pastor Clark) church debt. The brother’s relationship gets rocky when Chauncey falls in love with his brother’s secretary.

Kirk is not only a smart, debonair, phenomenal actor but he’s a man of class that carries the historical torch with honor. The completion of his film documentary featuring his grandmother, leaves the legacy of the distinguished Cambridge Players.

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The Voice of

Tabitha Duncan

“Growing up as a PK kid with many siblings, I always knew singing was my passion. They say, “you are the company you keep,” well that statement is true. I left home at an early age, and persuaded my dream in the music industry.

The company I kept in 1996, lead me to my celebrity status. I am now the lead singer and manager of R&B group Kut Klose,” —Tabitha Duncan, the founder of Kut Klose.

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Tabitha, the founder of Kut Klose is a single mother with 2 beautiful girls, Callie and Zoe. The groups stardom started when they were chosen as back-up singers for Keith Sweat. Here we are in 2019 and their billboard hit songs, “I Like,” “Surrender,” “Twisted,” and “Nobody” are still hot on syndicated radio stations.

Tabitha and her girls have newly taken on the mission to bring awareness. They are performing in a stage play called Angels Palace, a true sextrafficking story. Tabitha says, “this is a very serious subject because this has become an epidemic. It is important my children and I spread the word and our voices be heard to as many people as we can. I not only sing in the play, but I play a leading role as the part of Madame Shae. She is the character that snatches young girls to exploit at the palace.”

Tabitha is also the co-host of a television show called, The Montagé Love Connection. The television show helps singles identify, “what is the right rib?” The show is another platform for the voice of Tabitha Duncan.

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features

McCrary’s

Fatherhood Foundation

By Lisa Battise

DARIUS JAREN MCCRARY, ACTOR, SINGER and producer is best known for his role as Eddie Winslow, the oldest child of Carl and Harriette Winslow on the ABC/CBS television sitcom Family Matters, which ran from 1989–1998. Another one of McCrary’s notable roles was as Scam in the 1987 comedy film Big Shots, which was his film debut.

McCrary’s career as a child actor made it’s film debut in the 1987 comedy, Big Shots. After Family Matters ended in 1998, he was in the leading role of the movie, Something to Sing About; a Christian drama produced by the Billy Graham’s Association.

McCrary and his family are founders of Fathers Care; a non-profit organization. The organization is committed to empowering fathers by providing them with resources, providing education, and practical assistance. Fathers Care advocates for the right of every child to have a meaningful relationship with their father as well as countering negative stereotypes of men and fathers.

The joy of McCrary’s life has grown with the birth of his beautiful baby girl. Fatherhood and providing services through the Fatherhood foundation is the joy of his life

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Black Zack BLACK ZACK, BORN SAMMY MCDOWELL, reigns as “King of Southern Soul Rap.” His music is electrifying, moving and crosses all age barriers. Regardless of where he appears the venue is a guaranteed sell-out. He began his professional singing career at the age of 19 and has been topping the southern soul Charts ever since.

He has now launched an acting career on the stage in most his recent Christmas stage play, The Gift of Giving. Along with working on his new release and music video, Black loves writing, producing and entertaining.

To book Black, call 678-334-4268

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hair

Twists of Love

By Shalonda Mayon

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To Book an appointment: 870-317-4780 instagram: Twistsoflove

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entertainment

“Let’s Get to Know Miss Candi”

Lashika Drinkard

By Lisa M. Battise

STAR-STUDDED MISS CANDI was born in Lavonia, Georgia and grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. She is a Spoken Word Artist that has been writing since the age of 16 and has been performing since 2017. Her newfound beginning started at the Ritz Theatre for their Amateur night; where she placed third and advanced to the Semifinals. She then went on to perform at the Jazz Poetry Cafe for a year during their open mic, where she started to build her fan-base. Her first album, “Pain, Purpose and Survival” was released in 2018 and she has been performing in different places like Miami, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida. She is currently working on her new album titled “Miss Candi”, which will be released in January of 2020; she is an author as well. Her book “Pain, Purpose and Survival” is available on Amazon now.

Miss Candi has various talents; modeling for fashion shows in and around Jacksonville and Atlanta and has had the opportunity to work with many photographers in locations such as: Marine Land; Ocala, Tampa, Miami, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Cocoa Beach and Orlando. She’s also been in 10 music videos that can be seen on YouTube; “Bring a Friend”; “Radio”; “Shoot Ya Shot” and “Pay You No Attention”.

Her dreams and goals are to inspire women from all races and walks of life to follow their dreams. Also to travel and tour the world modeling and performing and to one day perform at the Grammys and Bet Awards. Miss Candi has had the greatest opportunity in the following Stage Play: “Gift of Giving” where she held a well performed role “Tisha”; which is written and produced by renowned Playwright, Carolyn Herring Jones, as well as popular movies and television shows.

Miss Candi states: “The most important goal for her to is to keep striving and perfecting herself so that she can continue to make a better life for her family”.

Please help us welcome our very own – Miss Candi.

You can follow Miss Candi: Social Media- Facebook: misscandi Instagram: misscandi85 Twitter: misscandi Soundcloud: mscandilove

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entertainment

PINHEAD “DARING TO BE DIFFERENT IS THE KEY TO LONGEVITY”

By Lisa M. Battise

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P

PINHEAD AKA JOHNNY LEE WESLEY II’s first love has always been music which led him to begin his music career as an artist. He first started doing music in high school when he saw two guys in class beating on the tables and rapping. He saw how the girls liked it so he started entering and winning showcases. He has performed with such Artists as: Outkast; Lil John & The Eastside Boys; Bone Thugs & Harmony; Too Short; Young Bloodz; Raheem The Dream, Shy D, DJ Smurf, Ghetto Mafia, The Outlawz, DJ Kool, Sons of Funk and more. His talent didn’t just stop there. Pinhead went on to start his own companies FlipnFlava Records/FlavaFlipn Management and clothing line Razor Gear with the help of Attorney Karl Washington in Atlanta. He decided to sign and manage himself. From there, he signed Galifea, Miss Rugget Nugget, Syko-Rah, & Non-Fiction.

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entertainment After being in numerous car accidents, sicknesses, and as a former veteran, being diagnosed with PTSD, he took a 5-year hiatus to focus on himself. He came back and helped Sykpachino (Syko-Rah) ink a distribution deal with Southern Music Distribution. Helped female rapper and CEO Contanek start DGF Records and ink a national distribution deal with Karvin Johnson of K.E.S. Music Distribution for her single “Tootsy-Pop”. He signed over 15 artists and groups consisting of Syko-Rah, Contanek, 185 Boys, Kasper, John Bars, Reggie B. (Marco Richh), etc.

Once again because of his health he was taking away from his dream.

Determined to not give up, this talented artist, actor, host, model, and entrepreneur has come back stronger than ever, with his new label, PB$ ENT. which stands for Paper Brings Satisfaction!!! He’s been working with R&B/soul artist Robert Young-RY. RY created a nice buzz for his self with his singles “Dance for Me” and “I’m Not Coming Back” off the self-titled EP “Dance for Me”.

Pinhead says, “Don’t call it a comeback I’ve been here for years” in the intro of his single “Red, Black and White” (The Georgia Anthem). He releases a new single on all social media platforms called “I Got Dat” (I’m Bad) performing one of his new styles. He calls it “Split Personality”. It sounds like two people rapping at the same time. He says no one person on earth is perfect. So it’s his good side and bad side battling for flavor inside his head. He’s doubling words and flipping his tongue and screaming I got that fire like Michael Jackson Hee Hee!!!

I’m Bad like L.L. Cool J. Pinhead’s has an alter ego, he calls PB$ Playboy Shooter Insane. He also has released “U Luv Me”, “P.I.M.B” (People In My Bizness), “T.H.A.S.T.M.”, “On A Ride” and a song dedicated to his 9 year daughter “Mall On A Saturday”. All produced by Devan Mungin of Devan On the Beat Studios, LLC. He was invited on the veterans show by the owner of WLMR radio Levi Miller. With Mr. Millers help he got significant success and media attention for his hit single “Stressed Out” which is about PTSD. His song is being played in a lot of PTSD Veteran classes all over the country.

He hooked up with Ahmedta of On the Move Records and she invited him to New York to perform in some “Power Is Industry” showcases giving by Ahmed and hosted by DJ Reymo. The footage from his performance at Blackthorne 51 in the “Power Is Industry” showcase brought a lot of attention to him. Also, Charles Geer DJ Big George in Macon Jimmie Doctrie in Dorhan, DJ Jammin Jammie in Valdosta, GA, DJ Mike Soul in Columbus, GA and Debbie Ireland all have contributed to his success. Pinhead is now casted in three Miller Montage plays; “The Angel’s Palace”, “Shop Talk”, and “The Gift of Giving” Christmas Play.

Johnnie Lee Wesley II plans to keep acting in plays and eventually start doing movies. He also brings his youngest

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daughter Chantanek along with him to act, model, & dance. He’s worked with Mr. Heard of WildSun Media/ Repping Magazine on his new website to launch www. pbs4lyfe.com.

Today Pinhead the Artist/Producer is working on an album called, “En Todo El Mundo” which means “Worldwide” in Spanish. I plan on releasing some more singles for 2020 while I’m working on the album. “Big Butt”, “Swine”, “I Just Need You”, “She’s a Victim” & “I Say U Say”.

Pinhead has always wanted to act but he chose his first love, Music. His first role was in elementary school as a monkey in the “Wizard of Oz”, he wanted to be the scarecrow or Tinman. When he didn’t get one of the lead roles it broke his heart and he decided not to try out for any more plays.

Pinhead has been quite the busy bee in the last few months . . Playwright and Director Mrs. Carolyn Herring Jones, has cast Pinhead in quite a few of her Stage Plays such as: “Angels Palace” where he is one of her Lead Actors, this play is based upon a true life story of sex/humantrafficking, Pinhead plays the role of “Jack”. His role as Jack shows you how people with money can use it in evil ways to hurt people and manipulate them to get what they want.

He is also Lead Actor in another one of Mrs. Jones’ Stage Plays Titled “Women Shoptalk While Real Men Wait”, his role is Pastor Clarke. The Stage Play “Gift of Giving” has been Pinhead’s latest additions to his resume’, this stage play is based on a 1970’s Good Time Old School African American Family Traditional Christmas Play. Pinhead has the role of “Jesus” where he is at the pearly gates of heaven for “Judgement Day” of those that are waiting to be seated at the throne of God. His daughter, Chantanek has the role of his “Angel”. More he stated to come in the future with all the upcoming touring of the Stage Plays in 2020 and with the ultimate goal of filming in film/movies. Look for him in the stars.

Pinhead a/k/a Johnny Lee Wesley, II is a person that believes what you put out into the universe is what you get back. He’s hoping that people will see in him, that his spirit is all about love. Love is God. Always striving to be a better person than he was the day before; staying positive and trying to get as close as he can to perfection. Pinhead stated the he has always lived by his moto … “Daring to be different is the key to longevity”.

To purchase and download any of PBS Ent. or FlipnFlava’s artists music: https://www.cdbaby.com/All/FlipnFlava.

His Music is also on all digital platforms for streaming!!!

Follow Pinhead on all social media outlets @pbs4yfe For Info: PBS Ent. (706)681-8739 or paperbringssatisfaction@gmail.com www.pbs4lyfe.com

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Kimberly West

KIMBERLY WEST IS AN ON-AIR TELEVISION personality, consultant, and digital influencer. She holds both a B.S. and M.S. degree in Apparel Merchandising and Design.

Kimberly has represented several lifestyle-related brands on news stations such as ABC 2 WMAR, Fox 45 Baltimore, ABC 33/40 - Talk of Alabama, WBAL - TV 11, and much more.

In addition, she has been featured on numerous sites such as Entrepreuner.com and received awards/nominations.

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STYLE + LIFE + FASHION BLOG: www.stylelifefashion.com Follow Style + Life + Fashion @kwest1908 • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Pinterest Lifestyle Expert seen on ABC 3340, Good Day Alabama, Fox 45, WBAL, and Let’s Talk Live DC

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DMS CREATIVE SOLUTIONS: DANA SCOTT

religion

Faith

and The Influence of Art and Fashion in the

Religious Community

Oasis Montagé Magazine Exclusive Interview: Pastor Jamal Harrison Bryant

By Kimberly J. West • Photos by TBumper & John McClung

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P I would say to African American men do not allow culture to define your manhood but find your identity in your family history.

astor Jamal Harrison Bryant is an anointed Pastor, Community Leader, Motivational Speaker, Media Personality, and rising menswear faith-based Style Icon.

During his transition as the newly appointed pastor of New Birth Missionary Ministries he has taken the Atlanta metro area by storm! Just recently he along with the congregation raised $120,000 to bail out first-time nonviolent offenders in Georgia counties. The motivation behind his effort was due to Pastor Bryant recognizing the church has been muted in prison reform. He immediately took action requesting financial support from the congregation and stakeholders, OASIS/MontagÊ • February 2020 45

resulting in a large financial donation.

Celebrities such as Clifford Joseph Harris— also known as T.I.—teamed up with the church and made nationwide headlines in a matter of days.

Some of his additional initiatives as the newly appointed Pastor include feeding 5000K homeless men and women during a Super Bowl celebration. This was a direct, hands-on approach to facing the needs of this underprivileged community. Pastor Bryant made a huge impact and the church not only served meals but also provided hair styling services. He is definitely not the type of clergyman to stand on the sidelines and wish for a change. Pastor Bryant is proactive and involves the church in efforts that truly matter.

Sex Trafficking is often a hidden topic within the African-American community but this is not the case for Pastor Jamal Harrison Bryant. As a millennial pastor, he is aggressively bringing this issue to light weekly on his network show “Power To The People.”

With a passion for change and personal motto, “Love, Lead, and Live like Christ” he not only inspires the community to strive higher through hands-on outreach but also encourages African-American men to play an active role in the lives around them.

Pastor Jamal Harrison Bryant sat down with Oasis Montagé Magazine to share a few of his thoughts about faith and the influence of art and fashion in the religious community. He is not only known for his moving sermons; addressing topics such debt and financial wellness but his personal style is an inspiration to the church weekly. Pastor Bryant can be seen wearing Embroidered Button-Down tops, Tailored Plaid Blazers, or African print shirts. Creating a personal brand through individuality that adds style and flair to his sermons.

On the cover, he is featured wearing the Bespoke Plaid Suit from Connaisseur Paris, Peachtree, Georgia location. The boutique is an apparel business with additional offices in Silver Spring,

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Portrait of the Artist

Michael Angelo Chester

Michael Angelo Chester 678•933•4044

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art

It’s Alive

The Art of Thomas Blackshear

THE MAN THOMAS BLACKSHEAR IS A PHENOMENAL AfricanAmerican sculpting artist. When he created his first piece of art; an old man praying, he caught the world by attention because the man’s face appeared as though it was real. You wanted to touch it to see if it was alive. Blackshear created the old man praying in 1987 while living in the Manitou Springs mountains of Colorado.

When meeting Blackshear after his first exhibition of the old man praying, Blackshear says, “I was only 32 years old when I first made this piece and I chose to live in the mountains where I could concentrate and that is where I found peace and quiet. I needed to concentrate and trust God to step out on faith as an artist. Being an artist is my passion so I had to find a way to make art my business.” The praying man is a finely designed sculpture and it is a limited edition. Blackshear signed each edition along with signing the authenticity paperwork. The old man praying was so unique because every detail and fine line of the facial feature was as though the sculpture was alive.

Since that first sculpture, Blackshear has also designed illustrations for numerous postage stamps issued by the United States of America. Blackshear’s Black Heritage works were premiered in 1992 at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Blackshear’s line of sculptures; “Ebony Visions,” are an array of magnificent sculptures that are not only uniquely crafted, but every facial feature of a smile and wrinkle is skillfully crafted. Blackshear sculpture is not only beautiful, but when you touch it you are mesmerized; as though it is Alive.

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DMS CREATIVE SOLUTIONS: DANA SCOTT

T

By Carolyn Moore

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Rita Daniels: Great, great, great grand niece of Harriet Tubman