P.I.F.F. Magazine Vol. 5 Issue 1 "Stay Focused Issue" [March 2020]

PIFF POSITIVE INFLUENCE FOR THE FUTURE

THE

stay focused

ISSUE featuring

peachy teA Nicki Minaj Who is J Reed?

Vanessa Soredjo Twista - JFresh - AZ Hip Hop Fest - Snaps

Issue 5.1 I MARCH 2020

PIFF

stories

48

32

12

2020 VISION

NICKI RETIRES?

FLORIDA FOCUS

Peachy Tea is fully focused on

The last decade of hip-hop has

Straight out the Florida scene, J Reed

taking control of her career and

been respectfully dominated by no

is hitting hard and in 2020, he’s not

overcoming the challenges she’s

other female artist than Nicki Minaj

playing around when it comes to his

experienced in her life journey.

herself. Of course, Cardi B made a

focus. Recently nominated at the

Stepping into modeling only a year

strong emergence in recent years

2019 Underground Music Awards

ago, she has a unique look and

and threatened Nicki’s solo position

(UMA), he’s coming from the realer

attitude that has quickly elevated

at the top of the game and opened

side of hip-hop; the side that speaks

her throughout New York and is

even more doors for new femcees.

to your heart through the relation of

only continuing to grow. Full of

Still, it’s no question that without

the struggle and the side of hip-hop

attitude, hustle, ambition, and drive,

Nicki, the game just wouldn’t be

that knows no commercialism or

this woman is ready to take the

the same. So, it was no surprise

phony gimmicks. Striving to remain

modeling industry by storm. She’s

that when Minaj announced her

different,

well on her way, she just has to

retirement, she sent her Barbie fans

amongst an ocean of soundalikes,

focus on her focus.

into a frenzy.

J Reed is an artist you can truly

unique,

and

original

appreciate; if for nothing else, just for keeping it 100% the only way he knows how.

4

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

departments editorial Positive Influence for the future editors note

10

cover feature Peachy Tea Interview

44

interviewS J Reed 12 Vanessa Soredjo 40

modelling Snaps 19 MODEL life 34

reviews Twista 56 J Fresh 59

Special feature Arizona Hip Hop Fest

64

on the cover peachy tea page 48 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020

5

6

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

EAST COAST KILLA BEEZ

march 2020 EDITORS

Graphic Designer Martin ‘Lab’ Ridgway

Xavier “CompleX” Prue Ri Royal

DIRECTORS Ray Daniels [Radio Connect] Mzz BK [Promotions] Lorissa “Classy” Dawahoya [Secretary/ Booking]

CONTRIBUTORS Select Oil

Photographers

Def Jam Records

Emily X. Gore [EXG Photos]

Nerve DJs

NeVaughn Brown [Nok Films]

Big Heff

Jonathan C. Ellerbee [J.E. Photos]

JReed

Tina Perry

Mixx Mafia Radio Nok Films

Promoters

Vett Adams

El Bambino

Trey Photos

Classy

Powerhouse 106 FM

Tin the 480 King

Vanessa Soredjo

N.Y. Noyz

Peachy Tea

AP Promo

Albee Al

Talya Coleman

JFresh the Journey

Writers

Peachy Tea

Respect the Underground

Bliss Bindope

PJ the Reptile Model

EXG Photos

Ri Royal

Rashida Gassaway

MTV

ES Writer

Juel of Rome

Misty TV Firm

UBO Magazine

Coleman All Star Agency

Emily X. Gore [Photography] Magical Meela [Social Media Manager] ES Writer [Music Review] Jay Moore [Marketing] Nilda Mendez [Financial] Be Bold Toya [Poetry]

Xavier Prue

E-mail: editor@piffmag.com Twitter: @piffmag 8

Facebook: facebook.com/piffmagz Instagram: @piffmag

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

the stay focused issue

issue 5.1

Contact us to get involved with P.I.F.F.

www.piffmag.com 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020

9

The message was prevalent all 2019: “Focus On Your Focus” and let it play. Focus will make you capable of anything; it fuels you with a power that pushes you forward even when you don’t want to go on.

Or as Peeg “PJ the reptile model” Johnson would say, “remember your WHY!” Well, I recently had to keep asking the universe WHY because there’s been many battles.

But, the repeated statement was “Stay Focused” and “Let Go.” That was a deep one for me because I’ve never been the type to let it go. So many revelations and lessons learned during this journey of success and one key that was given to me said, “it’s a clean slate and you have to let go to step into your abundance.”

10

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

editor's note

positive influence for the future You see, too many of us are holding

their memory. Lost contracts due to

country of America; thanks to my

things inside... envy, hate, jealousy,

failed goals. Investments fell inside.

man and new manager Ray Daniels,

anger... and they are preventing us.

But, you know what? Frustrated,

Music Director for Power 96.5 FM in

We are preventing us. Blocking our

pulling hair out, cussing out the opps,

Atlanta. Then, came Talya Coleman

own blessings. I admit that even

we stayed focused. And now, here

from the Coleman All Star Agency.

I wasn’t always such the positive

we are. 3 months behind, true. But,

Becoming Editorial President for the

influence at one point in my life.

we’re still here, which means they

Misty TV Firm. Becoming a Media

That’s why I keep pushing P.I.F.F.

haven’t stopped our movement yet

Rep for Nerve DJs; MTV; BET; and

Because I’m focused and my focus

or taken us out the game yet. Gotta

300 artists with Def Jam!! What’s

knows that it’s either this or the

respect that.

happening??!! Blessings are in the air

streets, which I vowed not to go back

Of course, there’s no such thing as

and we are on our way to greatness,

to. So, it is what it is. So, it’s definitely

coincidence; only irony. I was led to

so stick with us as we continue to

been focus that’s driven me through

Atlanta for some strange vibration I

change lives. We just gotta stick to

the storms lately.

couldn’t quite comprehend, but the

one thing: Stay Focused.

As I have always kept it transparent

visions wouldn’t leave me alone.

with my audience since I started

They woke me from my sleep at 3:00

this thing back in 2012, I won’t lie to

AM with equations in my head that

you guys and act like everything that

broke down to my angel numbers. I

glimmers is gold. Life fell apart for me

had no idea where these equations

over the past few months. Death was

came from in my sleep, but when I

the pattern in the air and I lost many

followed the codes and chased the

close ones in only a matter of months.

direction of the numbers, I became

They all told me to keep pushing in

The Radio Connect for the entire

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 11

Reed

J 12

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

piff interview - j reed

florida

key Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 13

who is

j reed Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue

14

PIFF: Who is J Reed?

and then they go behind your back.

JReed is an artist who expresses the

You’re dealing with untrustworthy

inner battles and lets the listeners

ass friends. Some things along that

know that someone out there can

level there.

relate to what they’re going through.

That’s why I take my time on what

I take what I went through, the

I’m putting together because I want

struggles of life… and when I say

it to be special. You know? I don’t

struggles of life, a lot people think I

want it to be me just going in a studio

mean I had to struggle in the hood, I

throwing something together. I don’t

had to come up from the block, and

go out there to ‘let me go do a trap

all of this. No, that’s a choice. You

song real quick.’ I don’t care if the

know what I’m saying? That’s not a

block loves me or not. I’m trying to

struggle. When I say my struggles,

get to the projects of the white folk.

I’m more or less talking about going

Feel me? That’s the mission. I want

through the heartbreaking pain.

to be able to have the higher ups

You know what I’m saying? You see

get to the point where it’s like look

someone and you put all of your

I can ride around with my kids, and

trust in your heart and your love

I can listen to this right here. Things

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

piff interview - j reed

J Reed is an artist who expresses the inner battles and lets the listeners know that someone out there can relate to what they’re going through of that nature. I like to party. I don’t

now? What would a person over in

mean going to the club every night.

Nevada be thinking about?’ So I’m

PIFF: Do they allow local artists to open up?

You know, I enjoy life. Depends on

thinking outside the box. It’s not just

It just depends on who you know.

how you make life. You hear a lot of

about trying to impress the people

Really the closest spot for artists

people say well life is hard, but hey

around you in your area. You want

really to perform is like Jacksonville.

we never said everything was going

to be the motivation

PIFF: How did you get into the

to be a good day. We said life was

Underground Music Awards?

My manager. We met and she

I put it into music. You know;

PIFF: Which section of Florida are you in? How is the Hip Hop scene out there?

going through divorce, a bad love

North Florida, Live Oak. Everything

up getting heard by the man who

life, and things of that nature. You

is good, I’m not going to lie. Instead

hosts it. He was like, “i’m going to

want music to be an inspiration for

of rushing everything out there to

forward this man this opportunity.”

somebody who’s going through

try and get everything seen, I’m

So I was grateful for it. He was

something. Like when I write certain

learning the business side of things.

telling me, “Look I like your music

songs or certain beats that I’m going

I’m trying to monetize all my videos.

and I like your sound, so I’m going

to write to, I think ‘What would a

I want to learn how to make money

to give you a chance to go ahead

person in Missouri be thinking right

off of everything that you do.

and get in on the show.” We went to

going to be a struggle.

I take what I’ve been through and

was just shopping music around and different things and wound

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 15

go put the song up for nominations

your budget up. This shit ain’t free.

know exactly what that costs. You

and different things. So I told him

I’m not going to sit here and tell you

see, what gets me is I have so many

I’m trying to go for hardest working

no lies and tell you that anything

artists get up on the song talking

artist because I don’t look at what

that I’ve accomplished up until this

about, “I’m big ballin’, I’m flashing,

I did. I look at what I’m doing now.

point was free because it ain’t.

and I got a pocket full of cash.” But then you have to pay $50 to get up

I just met up with a young female

on stage, and then say you can’t

told her I don’t have a problem with

PIFF: Why is it so important to have a budget?

bringing her on board, working with

For one, everybody’s trying to get

you going to say you have a pocket

her, and getting her to sound right.

signed by a label. You don’t want

full of money, when you can’t even

But I told her you got to look at what

a label to give you a budget. As a

put $50 up for your own career?

the other females are bringing to the

young artist, I ain’t gonna lie, the

table. We already got a Megan The

first thing you’re going to want to do

Just because you come up with a

Stallion. We already have a Cardi B.

is take that money and what? You

hot song, the question is, can you

We already have a Nicki. So you got

want to go buy your mama a house.

do it again? And then can you do

to be something different. They all

They give you that $300 million

it again after that? The thing in the

basically talk about the same shit.

dollars and that $300 million dollars

industry that a lot of people fail

So you got to be something different.

is going to be gone in 3-5 days. That

realize is called a sophomore. I tell

3 million is gone. So now your left

a lot of artists like this. When you

PIFF: Do you see yourself being one of the next ones to put Florida back on the map?

with no money to promote yourself

come out with that first song, it’s

because that was what the money

your freshman song. People don’t

was for. You’re left with no money

know who you are. So when you

I mean, I’m going to shoot for it, but

to get your radio play up. You left

come out with a hit song, people

when I say shoot for it, I mean not

me no money to be able to tour,

fell in love with you. So this is your

just in the aspect of saying Florida

go to different cities, and pass out

freshman year. You’re blowing up.

artist are just touring Florida. I

posters. You know, or give out hard

Now here comes that sophomore

want to have Florida artists be

copies of your cds and different

song. The song behind that one.

able to get up there on the UMA’s.

things like that. You don’t have that

You know? Get up on the South

money now.

and she wants me to work with her. I

because your broke. So how are

This is where a lot of artists fall off.

Even some of the great ones that

Carolina Music Awards. You know?

From there you keep building your

So when I say budget yourself, you

fell off. It’s something about that

brand up. I’m just trying to get all

have to know exactly what you’re

number 2 that knocks that artist’s

the opportunities and then give the

spending your money on. If they’re

career off because they’re unable to

same opportunities to the same

saying this distribution costs this

meet that same height from that first

type of artist who I see grinding and

amount of dollars to get this amount

song.

working. Like i tell a lot of them. Get

of dollars on your track, you got to

16

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

piff interview - j reed PIFF: What’s the biggest problem with the industry today?

on something special for the ladies.

talent?

A woman loves a man who’s not

Work hard. Nobody gonna give you

afraid to express himself and I

a hand out no matter how nice you

Everybody so quick to want to

came up with a new album called

are. You gotta learn how to grind.

chase a clout, so quick to want to

‘Infidelity’. My cousin was looking at

If you want something bad enough,

be noticed, to the point that they

me crazy like, “bro, you bout to tell

you grind for what you want. Big

forgetting what the music is about to

on yourself” and I’m like at this point,

things coming for 2020, so stay

the point where they feel they need

my story is out. I’m also helping

tuned!

a gimmick to go viral. What would

put together a compilation album

these artists do if the government

with other artists from around the

shut down the internet? How would

country.

you get your music out? My mindset

internet? It’s easy to push music

PIFF: What’s been your biggest thing that’s set you back as an artist trying to make it?

behind a computer screen, but can

Being too trusting.

is on the grind mode... how would you get your music if there was no

you get out there on these different

network with different people from

PIFF: What’s something you learned in 2019 you want to bring into 2020?

different walks of life? A lot of artist

A harder work ethic. This year was

today are just content with putting

more of a learning experience in

their music online, but you do better

showing me how the business truly

with that street grind behind it and

works. Now that I’ve had my trials

that’s what’s missing today.

and tribulations and figured some

blocks? Are you able to hit the WalMart for 3 hours straight and actually

things out, I know what goals I need

PIFF: What are you looking to accomplish?

to handle in 2020 to make things

The Top 200 Billboard Charts. I had

PIFF: Any advice for upcoming

pop.

a recent phone call with them and they gave me some insight as to what it takes to get there. I started out back in the late ‘90s, early 2000s. Over the years, I’ve gotten better with time and I’m working

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 17

Snaps submit to: editor@piffmag.com

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5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 19

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Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 21

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snaps

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snaps

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 25

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Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

snaps

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 27

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5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 31

T Le Before we get into my personal

shouldn’t do regarding their decision

one point in her career she had her

thoughts, Minaj announced her

on whether they should continue

foot in both the HipHop and Pop

retirement on Twitter and further

working or stop doing what they do

world and it wasn’t like she had one

explained why she was “leaving” the

for a living or continue during and

toe in those rooms. I’m talking bout

hiphop/music entertainment world

after giving birth. With that being

a whole foot. Once again you do

by stating that she wants to start a

said I support Nicki Minaj’s decision

not have to be a fan to acknowledge

family and will be taking time off to

because it was what she felt was the

these things plus the numerous of

focus on being a mother. A move

best choice for her. Whether you

other “boss” moves Nicki Minaj

many women/soon to me moms

consider her the Queen of rap or

has made. These are just some of

have made for years. My mother

just another “peasant” one thing we

the things that’ll be missed IF Nicki

made that decisions. If I was able to

can’t ignore is all if her accolades

Minaj was really retiring…

bear children I wouldn’t make that

and her contribution to HipHop. I’m

choice but as someone who can’t

not really a fan of Minaj, but other

You read that right, I don’t think

bear a child (carry life and give birth)

than her sex appeal what I also like

your “Queen” is retiring, but I do

I’ll never tell someone who can

about her is her “boss” mentality. I

believe she is taking time off to

bear children what they should or

thought it was pretty dope that at

actually start that family she’s been

32

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

The ‘Queen’ Has eft the Throne (for now)

by ES Writer

wanting to do for sometime now.

HipHop/music industry in general

to either put her career on hold or

Barbs, rejoice, haters I’m sorry if my

just to tweet out that she’s done

stop it to focus on her personal life

prediction ruined your day. I must

and she’s going to start a family.

but I sure don’t believe that is 100%

preference this by saying none of

The Nicki Minaj that I know (not

the reason why she’s “retiring.” Ms.

my view points are backed by inside

personally) will go out with a bang

Minaj (or Mrs. Petty) is testing the

knowledge of this situation because

or at least a lot more buzz. So why

waters. To see how many people

as it stands today Nicki Minaj

scream retirement if she’s not really

are going to beg het to keep making

most likely doesn’t know I exist so

retiring? To me it it’s an ego thing. It’s

music and to see how many people

how would she be able to share

no secret Nicki Minaj has an ego. A

are going to beg her to comeback

this information with yours truly?

very big ego. Some love her big ego.

and when she does return best

Second, the words and opinions

Some think it’s too much. I think it

believe she’s going to be the vocal

here are my own. So please don’t go

is on brand to what we have seen

boisterous Nicki Minaj people have

attacking P.I.F.F. Magazine. Attack

from Nicki Minaj over the years.

grown to love or hate.

me. I don’t think Nicki Minaj is done

That’s why this annoucement did

yet. I don’t think she’ll go as hard

not surprise me one bit. As stated

to defend her name and place in

previously I do support her decision

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 33

model manageme 34

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

MODEL MANAGEMENT 101 PHOTO : Trey Photos I MODEL : Vett Adams

lent

101

As a

special dedication

to our relaunch of P.I.F.F. Magazine, I will include one chapter in every issue of P.I.F.F. from my book on model management, titled, ‘Model Life’. Stick with us each issue to pick up new skills and learn the basics of managing people in the modeling industry.

PART 8 OF 10

CREATE YOUR OWN GIGS & EVENTS

by xavier 'complex' pruE 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 35

Having trouble getting the ball rolling and your models working? When all else seems to be failing or things are moving slow in between finding open gigs, one of the best things you can do is create your own gigs and events.

Doing so serves a double benefit:

it saves you time in searching

for events, gigs, or jobs and submitting and it guarantees your

models work; at the same time

as promoting your models and company.

Creating your own gigs can also prove to be more profitable as well.

Whereas you normally would

solely depend on a commission off a model’s paid job, creating your own can pull in revenue from

other

sources

such

as

charging advertising fees to event

36

sponsors, door sales, ticket sales, merchandise sales, VIP access, etc.

Also, because you’re still entitled

to your manager commissions, you will actually save money in paying out your models.

choose to implement into creating

your own agenda. Some good ideas are fashion shows, modeling concert

motivational

speaking

series,

events,

charities, educational seminars, causes,

multiple

or

a

ideas.

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

combination Two

mixed with a concert and a model date event where people submit for a chance to go on a date with the model. These types of ideas can generate subscribers and build

There are many ideas you can

competitions,

favorites are doing a fashion show

of

of

my

your fan following. Also, you can create smaller, more private gigs, such as shooting for company ads and selling them to the companies.

There are numerous ways to create your own gig or event; you just have to get creative and think outside the box.

MODEL MANAGEMENT 101

37

To start, you can begin with putting

from hair studios and schools as

covering it such as radio stations,

out to sponsors who you feel may

magazines or weave companies.

channels, etc. And as much of a

together a press release and reaching endorse your event. If I wanted to do a major event I feel would be

successful, I may organize a breast

cancer awareness event. In the press release, I would announce that

our host is a model who formerly

had breast cancer and overcame it

or was closely related to someone with it; and also, that 25% of all

well as relating medias such as hair

The stylists would perform on our

models and models would be paid

There's really no wrong way to promote, except not to promote.

profits would be donated to breast

from out of the revenue generated

all medical companies and the like

fees.

cancer research. I would seek out

as sponsors. Or, I would create a

from sponsor fees and submission

hair stylist competition event where

Once you have the event locked in

prize for best hairdos. Revenue

and secure, you should reach out

stylists would compete for a grand would come from charging stylists a

small entry fee and I'd seek sponsors

place and things are looking good

to get as many big-name media sources involved in attending and

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY 38

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

magazines, tv channels, news stretch as it is, if you can get any

type of celebrity or well-known public figure involved, that’ll boost your attention by a huge

increased percentage. Doing this

will give you and your models

and company a good promotion, secure your models with work,

and allow you opportunities to

network and connect with new

people or companies for future benefit.

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 39

Vanessa 40

Š 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Soredjo Interview by Xavier “CompleX” Prue

IMAGES BY Michael Buie Film Light Photography 5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 41

PIFF: You started out in your early life in law enforcement.

How did that lead to modeling and acting?

VANESSA: When I first started, I was still in law enforcement. I did a lot of background work like any other [aspiring entertainer] would do. So, I stayed in contact with a lot of the connections I made in the industry and got signed on with two different agents for theater.

I’m not with them anymore; but that’s how I got started – I started out as an extra. From there, I just kept pushing myself further from doing free photoshoots for photographers to reaching back out to past connects. But, there was a time that I [got frustrated] and stopped doing it for a year or two because I felt like it just wasn’t going anywhere. And then, about a year ago, I told myself ‘I’m going back into this!’ It’s a struggle, but it’s a passion I really enjoy, so I just continue pushing myself out there.

VANESSA: Reigning Men was my

PIFF: You said you got started out in Louisiana... is that where you’re from?

VANESSA:: I was in Louisiana at the

first one that I did and then, the

VANESSA: No. I’m originally from

time, when I first got my foot in the

other ones I did over here in North

South America in a country called

door in the entertainment industry.

Carolina.

Suriname. I speak Dutch.

PIFF: Where were you at when you first got into the industry?

42

PIFF: Was Reigning Men your first official project?

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

PIFF: When did you move to North Carolina?

VANESSA: 2 years ago in 2017.

PIFF: Was it a major change moving there from Louisiana?

VANESSA: I’ve been in Louisiana for 14 years. I just wanted a change. I didn’t want to be stuck there for the rest of my life.

PIFF: What’s the difference between the opportunities in Louisiana and the opportunities in North Carolina?

VANESSA: When I was in Louisiana, I didn’t really push myself as hard as I pushed myself in North Carolina.

My drive just changed.

PIFF: What’s been your roughest moment in everything you’ve done so far?

VANESSA: It comes and goes.

Because I still work my regular 9-5 job. I feel that people who don’t really love their passion, they don’t really push hard for it but if you really love what you do, even if you know you have to work a regular job to pay your bills, you still will make time for your passion, but if you really love what you’re doing, you’ll keep on pushing.

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 43

PIFF: And not only are you an actress, but you’re a model as well, right?

VANESSA: I can’t do everything because I’m short, but I do a lot of print and commerical work, but I could never really be on a runway because I’m not tall enough. That’s why I’m focusing more on the acting. I use the modeling side more for networking and business opportunties. I’m not tall, man. I’m this little shortie!!

PIFF: Do you prefer one over the other?

VANESSA: I love them both. I love acting because I can be any character I want to be that I cannot be in real life. I get to walk in people’s shoes and feel their feelings, their thoughts. As far as modeling, I love doing the print work and feeling like it’s my time to shine. I love being in front of the camera.

My biggest goal is to be able to quit my job and pay my bills only through modeling and acting.

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PIFF: How long have you been doing this?

VANESSA: I've been officially in the industry since 2012.

piff spotlight - Vanessa Soredjo PIFF: Any advice for other women out there aspiring to make it to your level?

each other. We all were strangers to make that short film. But, it was

PIFF: What’s the process if someone wants to book you on a project?

VANESSA: It has to come from you

actually for my demo reel and I

VANESSA: They gotta holla at

to really want this. If you really want

never thought that the idea would

P.I.F.F. Magazine and go through

this, you’re gonna do whatever you

get picked up. And that’s how I got

you guys if they wanna work with

can to push yourself out there and

started producing and I enjoyed it, so

me. I’m managed by agents, not

make it. And network with people.

I went into shooting ‘Bad Director’.

just anybody can book me, so if

My next film I plan to produce is

somebody is interested in working

PIFF: When did you decide to get deeper involved in the game and go into doing production?

Going from being the actor to becoming the director...

going to be about modern slavery.

with me on a project, they’re gonna

VANESSA: That is funny because I

as I can this year. All I need is one

really needed my demo reel. We

opportunity to prove myself. The

got ready to put an idea together to

more bookings, the better. My

build on our demo reels, me and a

biggest goal is to be able to quit my

group of actors. We met up to shoot

job and pay my bills only through

‘Jack’s Shed’ and none of us knew

modeling and acting.

when we got together that weekend

need to get it cleared through P.I.F.F.

PIFF: What are your goals for 2020?

VANESSA: To get as many bookings

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 45

pe 48

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eachy

tea

Interview By: Xavier “CompleX” Prue Photos By: JE Photos

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 49

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cover feature - peachy tea PIFF: What’s your experience in the modeling industry and how long [have] you been pursuing this vision?

production, it’s not gonna be your be a lot of twists and turns and

That’s incredible... so, tell us... why is Peachy Tea the signature?

attitude and flair and fire and a lot of

It started out as “Sweet Tea”. My

[Peachy Tea]: I started modeling

glitz and glam – it’s going to be very

first love gave me the name when

about a year ago in February, March.

well coordinated. That’s what you’re

we was about 14, and it kind of

going to see. There’s not going to be

stuck with me through the years.

Ok, and what was it about it that made you decide to get into modeling on a serious note?

any dialogue, just all choreography

[As I came into the industry], I

and modeling. We’re going to have

wanted to use “Sweet Tea”, but

plus sized scenes, children scenes,

I just thought it was too bland.

traditional themes, men themes

Because... I’m not as sweet as I

At first, I was just having fun. And

– it’s going to be a creative blend.

once was and all the life lessons

then, the fun turned into: ‘I’m actually

This fashion show is going to set the

I had to learn, it just made me a

kind of good at this!’ And then it

Capital region on fire!

little sour. And plus, I wanted to

typical runway show. There’s gonna

was like, ‘I’m actually kind of good

put a spin on the name and I love the South. And my complexion

in this moment.’ For the past couple

We see you’ve been building up in New York. Have you reached out beyond the NY market?

months, I’ve been going through

So far, I haven’t traveled outside of

because I have that yellow, orangish

boot camp every Sunday practicing

New York. Like I said, I’ve just been

tone from being both Latina and

theatrical modeling. I have a huge

having a lot of fun.

Asian. And I loooovve Peach Tea.

fashion show coming up on May

So, over this past year, I’ve just been

Except for that Lipton sh**. That’s

30th, a huge fashion production

doing a lot of shows. I’ve been

nasty, but anything else Peach, I

going down in Albany, New York at

published already in a Manhattan

love it. So, I was like, ‘why don’t

the Governor’s Convention Center.

magazine as well as some blog

I be Peachy Tea?’ because after

placements. I put my son into

having my kids, I needed to find

Tell us more about the show.

children’s modeling, as well, and

a new and different self-identify

The designers – Slyvia Robinson

he’s already gaining a fast reception.

which gave me that escape from my

and Donte Thomas – we're going

He was recently just published in a

normal life because the person I’m

to be having quite a few different

newspaper and he gathered up to

reinventing – which is Peachy Tea

designers working with us from

200 followers in his first month of us

– is my current reality I’m stepping

different cities - including New York

creating his social media account.

into and my future persona. So,

at this, I already know my potential super cedes what I’m doing with it

resembles a Georgia peach, especially when I’m in the sun

City, Atlanta – coming out and it’s

it’s all about a stepping-stone

gonna be all pretty much theatrics.

revolution for me.

Overall, it’s going to be a theatrical

So, bring us back a little bit...

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 51

where does your journey begin?

life. If you can survive that life, you

I moved up to Albany when I was 7,

can pretty much survive anywhere. I

but my father always lived in the City.

remember growing up in the ‘90s, [the

someone wouldn’t be able to tell about you from just looking at your profile.

I ’m from the Bronx, New York. I was

mentality] was like... beef one time,

That I’m 100% real. I don’t sugarcoat

born in Bronx Lebanon Hospital.

beef all the time. In the ‘90s, that’s

nothing. Even if I don’t like it, I’m

Life was really tough for me... tough

how it was. They would shoot up the

goin’ still tell it how it is. Even if it

to me. It didn’t just start with me...

whole park for one person. When you

don’t sound good, I’m not gonna try

something that flowed through me

grow up around that type of element,

to make it sound good. I’m just goin’

and that I had to get through from

you’re going to be a little different. I

keep it 100% and stay real to what

past generations before me. My

don’t interact with every type of vibe

I represent.

parents’ parents weren’t from this

and every person out there, because I

country... they didn’t have their

mind my business. My upbringing was

citizenship and everything like that

messed up, but I learned from it, but

officially until later on. So, it kind of

honestly, I wouldn’t change it because

changed the game for me because

it made me very sharp and on point

I’m the first woman in my family to

and the way most people are these

graduate from college. New York

days is dumb as rocks.

City... that lifestyle is... it’s a difficult

That’s deep. So, what’s one thing

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© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

cover feature - peachy tea What’s your greatest weakness in your ambitions?

How do you find ways to regain your focus?

I tend to lose focus a lot on the

When I get bored with one thing, I

If you had to sum up your biggest goal in one word, what would it be?

bigger picture sometimes, when I’m

go to the next. A lot of people can’t

Empowerment. This movement is

dealing with the bigger picture and

multi-task and I believe that people

empowering me to be the woman I

I start to pick out small issues that

who do have that skill can actually

should have always been and I’m not

overall don’t mean as much as the

continue to progress without feeling

letting anything get in the way of that.

bigger picture – it's not that serious

blocked because maybe one avenue

like the whole project isn’t done

isn’t working. Once I done got tired

off of one issue. And I think that’s

of printing labels – I done printed

my problem – is accepting failure.

200 labels and I got 200 more labels

So, what’s your focul point with that? What helps you keep pushing forward?

That’s something I have to overcome

to print – let me go sew this shirt

My kids. If it wasn’t for my kids, I

because that’s a part of being in this

together because I’m bored with

would have lost my mind a long time

industry is learning how to accept

this. Now, the shirt is sewn and I go

ago, I ain’t gone front. My kids keep

failures and realizing you’re not

back to hit print on the other 200

me sane and motivate me to make

always going to please everyone or

labels, but I’m not waiting because

it through anything just so I can be

accomplish every single goal you

while those labels start printing, I’m

there for them. If God takes me out

always set.

going back to finish designing the

before then, that’s just what it is, but I

shirt I just sowed. And then when I

can’t give up or quit and my kids are

get bored with that and I’m halfway

a factor for that. And of course, God

done with the shirt, ok, let me go

keeps me strengthened and going.

and package this material – package

Whenever I feel my spirit is under

it, put the labels on it. Now, the day

attack, I turn off the secular music

is over and not only did I get my

and get to praying and playing gospel

labels printed and orders packaged,

music and praising Him and thanking

I also designed a whole new shirt at

Him for every moment – good or

the same time instead of just waiting

bad – for just bringing me through it

and getting stuck on one project at

all and keeping me strong. And once

a time.

I get through that, I usually come up with a new approach or a new plan to get me back to the goal in which He provided or led me down to.

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 53

http://Josephbills.com

Why do you feel you have to get away from the secular music?

The secular music has a worldly component to it that God warns us about.

That deters your mind from doing what you know is right. The only music that you listen to when you hear radio is something that He says ‘don’t do.’

Whether it’s fornication, intoxication, high on drugs, hurting people, killing people, disrespecting people. And it does sound good. It sounds great. And I'm not saying that as humans, we don’t indulge. But, when you feel your spirit under attack, you have to do spiritual maintenance and get away from those vibes because you feel it in your spirit if you’re aware. If you turn off that secular music and tune into spiritual music, it completely turns your mind around and washes out every negative vibe in your mind that you’ve been taking in from the rest of the world.

Is there anyone in the industry you look up to as a role model for your ambitions?

Rhiana. She’s definitely my inspiration and with all that she’s accomplished with her own branding and recent modeling endeavors, definitely a woman with a statement. I respect her grind and hustle and seeing her make milliondollar moves just motivates me more.

What should we be on watch for this year with Peachy Tea? I got a fashion show coming up in the early summer. I also have a music video shoot coming up for one of the local designers and artists I’m working with.

May 30th is my big fashion show in Albany at the Governor's Convention Center. I’m going on the Stay Focused Tour later this year with P.I.F.F. Magazine.

So, we’ll see... got a lot coming up on this adventure of mine...

How do people find you or get in contact with you to work with you on things?

I’m on Instagram as @sweettea5972 and my Facebook is: Peachy Tea, so definitely follow and/ or like my Facebook page. I have a modeling page called Peachy Sweet Tea. You can look me up on there, too. You can really look me up anywhere. I’m everywhere and I’m gonna be everywhere!

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http://Josephbills.com

My kids keep me sane and motivate me to make it through anything just so I canhttp://Josephbills.com/press-kit be there for them. http://Josephbills.com

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 55

TWISTA

‘Summer 96’

Mixtape Review Latest project from Chicago lyricist

Pros:

Twista

some

city. These are things that I don’t

and legend in the game, Twista.

homestyle Chicago based house

mind when music artist do it, but

Known for his flash and rapid fire

music mixed with HipHop which

make the project on point. Don’t tell

rap style that was not a missing

shocked me for a moment because

me the album/project is about one

presence on this Mixtape, Summer

I’m not from Chicago. Don’t get

thing then have songs that do not fit

96.’

it twisted, a lot of inner city clubs

said concept.

Twista didn’t lose a step. Twista

rock with House Music. House

fanatics already knew this and it

Music IS black music but that’s for

Overall Twista did his thang on this

wasn’t like I doubted the OG cause I

another discussion for another time.

mixtape. No surprises here, just

knew dude could still rap, just didn’t

I just was not expecting Twista to

wish he made this project shorter by

know he’d do something new on

experiment with that style of music,

trimming the fat that was the songs

this mixtape. The flash is still present

ever. It makes sense him being from

that were not on par with the theme

on this mixtape and of course the

Chicago and that sound being part

of this mixtape.

lyricism and speed. Typical Twista

of the culture, but there are other

is the bulk of this mixtape. Whether

styles of Chi-Town HipHop Music

that bothers you or not is totally up

as well. As far as the pros go I do

to you but here’s what I liked and

he’ll be soon releasing and to bring

disliked about the mixtape and wish

up Chicago culture again, I feel like

Twista did more of.

he wanted to paint a picture of his

PIFF REVIEW

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© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

introduce

Rate: 8/10.

piff review

Latest project from Chicago lyricist and legend in the game, Twista. Known for his flash and rapid fire rap style that was not a missing presence on this Mixtape, Summer 96.’

Twista didn’t lose a step. Twista fanatics already knew this and it wasn’t like I doubted the OG cause I knew dude could still rap, just didn’t know he’d do something new on this mixtape. The flash is still present on this mixtape and of course the lyricism and speed. Typical Twista is the bulk of this mixtape.

Whether that bothers you or not is total 4.4 THE INSPIRATION ISSUE OCTOBER 2019 57

J FRESH 58

© 2020 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

piff review

rise of the footsoldier Indie artist are known to do

Each mixtape has it’s own sound

some unprecedented things like

and vibe to it. You have the first

dropping three mixtapes out in

mixtape

one day. Who’s the artist that did

which is all about the glitz and

that? Conneticut’s own, JFresh

glamour of the rap game and the

The Journey. I’ve listened to all

street life. Mixtape #2 “The Rise

three projects by JFresh and will

of a Foot Soldier” has somewhat

share my thoughts on all of them,

of a conscious feel to it with

but not separately like my usual

some motivational tracks as well.

reviews. Typically I would share

Mixtape #3 Before Anything Else”

my thoughts about an album/

had a club/party vibe to it. As you

mixtape, name a favored song(s)

can see three totally different vibes

and rate the project out of 10.

to three different projects, but

This review will be a bit different.

generally speaking the content felt

I’ll still name my favorite track

the same. Yes I got different vibes

out of all of the music I listened

from the projects and I credit that

to by JFresh, but instead of giving

to not only the production on all

out individual ratings I will detail

three of these mixtapes being

which of the three mixtapes do I

different but JFresh’s delivery is

like and why. As always with all

different on all three tapes. Despite

Overall if you like what many have

of my reviews and everything I

my lack of interest in two out of

called “street music” or “club music”

do expect honesty and fairness.

the three tapes I will credit JFresh

then the first and third mixtapes should

Without further ado, here’s the

for being an artist who seems to

be more of your speed. Still check out

review!

be very versatile and can re-invent

mixtape #2 because there’s still some

himself and adapt to many different

street anthems on that mixtape as well.

“Royalty&Ratchetness”

sounds of HipHop if he wanted to.

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 59

Since I brought up my interest level with these mixtapes I think it’s an appropriate time for me to bring up my favorite mixtape of the three and that is “The Rise of a Foot Soldier.”

The Rise of a Foot Soldier had the best production to me and the most relatable tracks. That’s pretty much why I preferred this mixtape over the other two. There were moments on this mixtape that reminded me of the other two mixtapes, but as I stated before none of these mixtapes sound the same. Not even Fresh sounds the same on these mixtapes.

Upon listening to TROAFS (The Rise of a Foot Soldier) I was saying to myself “this mixtape will end up being the more experimental one out of the three.” That wasn’t the case because mixtape #3 took that title but this one is still my favorite out of the three because of the more relaxed (and somewhat relaxed) production and once again the content on this mixtape was better because it had more tracks that I could relate to. Now is an appropriate time to bring up my favorite track of all the mixtapes.

Despite my feelings on the mixtapes I can honestly say that all three of them had at least one song that I can say stood out to me as a song better than the rest. The song “Moving To Fast” off of the “The Rise of a Field Soldier mixtape was the song that stood out to me the most out of all of the music by JFresh The Journey that I listened too. Moving To Fast is one of the socially conscious songs I’m talking about when I said the TROAFS mixtape has that type of vibe. What I like most about it is the message. Reminding listeners not to rush the process and to live life with a purpose, but don’t burn yourself out trying to achieve those dreams. It also served as a reminder to folks to stay in their own lane. Not on some disrespectful belittlement shit but to encourage listeners to be themselves and not look at what the next man or woman is doing just to emulate them.

For more P.I.F.F. Reviews, check us out at

www.piffmag.com 60

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4.4 THE INSPIRATION ISSUE OCTOBER 2019 61

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piff poetry

MENDED WINGS

burdened by fractured dreams and empty promises I sought escape from my reality broken emotionally and physically I was lost victimized and exploited by my very own malicious thoughts that ravished my fragile mind and body with no psychological balance tainted by fears and unhealthy recurring thoughts I was broken I wrestled with my negative Internal dialogue no peace in sight broken trapped and lonely my physical pain -my crutch I held on to it with everything I had and then some tattered broken wings filled with brokenness I searched for refuge within my broken-self

I felt sorry for me I even entertained suicidal thoughts when the intensity of the physical and emotional pain prolonged the financial situation-ship roared at me startled me and drove fear in me pathetic aroused with pity vulnerable with my broken wings I searched within the depths of my pain and gained clarity hope restored I regained consciousness I mended my broken wings I sought clinical help reconnected with my inner me and my spiritual self I ran away from my pity party never to look back I made peace and found a better version of me no more brokenness I am alive and thankful for all the valuable lessons learnt I am a free woman, a rich woman with mended wings soaring to new heights

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 63

The Arizona Hip Hop Festival 

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a

5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 65

the arizonA hip hop festival is one of the biggest staples in the Arizona hip-hop market.

Created and orchestrated by Respect The Underground and backed by major sponsors Select Oil, this event goes down annually each year in the good old AZ and continues to expand and grow crazier each year. This year, P.I.F.F. Magazine was delighted to be invited to team up with the 6th Annual AZ HH Fest and highlight some of the hardestgoing entertainers in Arizona State. Check out our girl Emily X. Gore’s images from the night of the event and catch us on the website for more!

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ยง

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5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 71

The Hip Fes

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e Arizona p Hop stival

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AZHH FEST

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EDITOR@PIFFMAG.COM RECRUITING: Music Artists; Models; Hairstylists; Make-up Artists; Fashion Designers; Photographers; Writers; Promoters; Influencers; Bloggers; Business People; & Entrepreneurs alike 80

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5.1 THE STAY FOCUSED ISSUE MARCH 2020 81

PIFF the stay focused Issue

v