P.I.F.F. Magazine Vol. 4 Issue 1 "Up In Smoke Issue" [January 2019]

JANUARY 2019

The “UP IN SMOKE” Issue

Volume 4

Our th

6

yr Anniversary!! featuring

chanel bracy the

Drumcussionist

SPONSORED BY

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S T O R I E S

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CHANEL BRACY has kicked down the door and broken all rules as she created her own genre as a drumcussionist and introduced ICE WATER PERCUSSION to the world

Tekashi is facing serious criminal charges... find out the full story and current status here.

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74 Joyner Lucas and Tory Lanez go at it in one of the biggest

hip-hop battles of 2018!!

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politickin’

cover

snaps

real talk “NO ONE HAS DIED FROM OVER DOSING ON WEED!!”

Cover & This Page: Chanel Bracy

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departments EDITORIAL Positive Influence For the Future [Editor’s Note]

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Politickin’ w/ Bliss Bindope

16

MODELING Snaps Model Life

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ENTERTAINMENT Real Talk w/ Taj “Real Talk” Thomas

Who’s That Chick?

V.E.N.T. P.I.F.F. Review P.I.F.F. Poetry

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(volume Founding Editor

Xavier “CompleX” Prue

Assistant Editor

Ri Royal

Legal Consultant

Malissa Hurry

Public Relations & Operations Manager Brand Ambassador

Shawn Smith

Promotions Manager Associate Director, Content Development Graphic Designers Bloggers Writers Photographers

Ana “MzGotti” Montes

Brenda “Mzz BK” Lowery Taj “Real Talk” Thomas Xavier “CompleX” Prue; Martin Lab Ridgway Natalee Gilbert; Bliss Bindope

Malissa Hurry; Taj Thomas; Xavier Prue; Natalee Gilbert; Bliss Bindope; The Legend KC; ES Writer NeVaughn Brown; Edward “Trey Photo” Louis Smith; Emily X. Gore [EXG Photos]; Katie Grace; Whitney Collings

Copyright © 2018 P.I.F.F. Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

JANUARY 2019

four) Music Review Manager Contributors

Xavier “CompleX” Prue Chanel Bracy; Ice Water Percussion; East Coast Killa Beez; Legal Mobb Entertainment; Heather “Honeydip” Henry; Undadawg Entertainment; Dionne Baldwin; 92.9 FM; Starving Artists Creations; Trey Photo; Vett Adams; Miech NL

Contact us to get involved with P.I.F.F. E-mail: editor@piffmag.com Twitter: @piffmag Facebook: facebook.com/piffmagz Instagram: @piffmag www.piffmag.com

Positive Influence For the Future awaited pie that your Nana only makes on special occassions... you know that even through the wait, you’re going to get something REAL and something that was designed for you!

As the year has finally ended and we move into a new era starting off 2019, P.I.F.F. has some interesting things coming to the table; including re-introducing our V.E.N.T. mixtape series as well as getting ready to do a P.I.F.F. tour, so if you want us to come roll through your hood and you know someone we should have our eye on, let us know.

S

ix years has been the era of P.I.F.F. Magazine so far. We’ve risen, we fell, but through it all, you all have remained by our sides and riding with us; even when we’re running late on submissions because it’s like that long-

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The first thing I asked when I met Chanel Bracy AKA Ice Water Percussion was... what in the world is a drumcussinist?? I’d never heard of it; but it was an interesting story and a smooth interview. The girl literally created not only her own term and when I say created it, I mean yes, she trademarked it, legalized it, all that; yet, she also created a new genre of drumcussionists.

Her story is a must-read!

I usually will go on and on rambling in these little editor notes, but I think that you all have been waiting long enough for this issue to drop; so let’s talk about what it’s all about.

In this Anniversary issue, we cover our “Up In Smoke” theme and discuss different perspectives on whether or not the government should move ahead with legalization of recreational marijuana. We also discuss that bulls**t... that K2 that y’all lovin’ out there so much.

We’ve got the scoop on Tekashi 6ix9ine with Malissa Hurry and the homegirl Natalee Gilbert has the inside view on the Joyner Lucas vs. Tory Lanez situation. It’s definitely goin’ be lit this issue, so pull up with us...

-- Xavier

“CompleX” Prue

Editor-in-Chief

january 15

POLITICKIN’ 16 P.I.F.F. 2019

Artworx: Martin Lab Ridgway

with Bliss Bindope january 17

CANNABUSINESSS

by BLISS BINDOPE

the years. So what has changed? The propaganda surrounding this miracle plant has definitely evolved over the years. Now, why would the government want to fight so hard against legalizing a plant? The answer is simple: there is not much profit in the cure.

Being from Hawaii, one of the first states to medically legalize the herb, I am very familiar with weed. I, personally, did not even try mary jane until I was 18, and even then did not become a chronic user until later on in my life. I seen nothing wrong with using the herb for recreational, social and medicinal purposes. Besides the Pot. Grass. 420. Dope. adverse effects of inhaling any type Herb. Reefer. Cannabis. Chronic. of smoke, the negatives of THC were Mary Jane. Sticky-icky. Hay. Tetrahy- mostly products of the initiatives drocannabinol. Is it a drug? Is it our against marijuana, propagandized by savior? alcohol, tobacco and big pharmaceu ticle companies. These industries are

One thing that is for sure, is that huge lobbyists in the political realm. we are finding out that weed is big business and what some are calling

I’m sure some of you are familiar the gold rush of the 21s century. Why with the anti-marijuana commercial, has it taken so long for the public to where the people are driving and hit recognize this plant as a positive med- a child on a bicycle. Those of us who icine for the masses? smoke weed were insulted by a com-

Weed. Marijuana.

mercial trying to demonize a plant

Well, we know that cannabis has that makes us more aware of our surnot changed much, besides becoming roundings and actually heightens our better studied and more potent, over

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sensitivities to the world around us.

Therefore, the chances of people even getting into car accidents while high, are far less likely and a lot harder to prove than say, a bigger vehicular kill- cal, psychotic, careless and murderous er like alcohol. individuals. It was one of the first propagandized movies I had ever heard

There have been numerous of. But that is all it was: propaganda. cases that made it’s way up to the supreme court level, since more and

I have a cousin who suffers from more states are legalizing the plant, severe seizures, due to epilepsy. He medically and recreationally. These will never be able to drive a car, or cases have proven that there still isn’t really have a “regular” job, because enough evidence to prove that THC his seizures pose a threat to normal, impairs our ability to drive carefully, everyday tasks, since they can occur and what exactly are “safe” limits of any time, any place. I was a witness to the plant once it filers through our a few of these episodes, and believe system. We may never have a straight me, it was one of the most terrifying answer, however, we know for sure things I had seen in my life. He uses that alcohol, tobacco and pharmaceu- medical marijuana everyday, and it ticals have killed more people than helps to minimize the seizures and weed ever will. also fights against the side effects of

POLITICKIN’

Now, I am not saying everyone should be smoking weed. I am an advocate for the medicinal use of the plant, but I am aware that it effects people differently. Marijuana is a psychedellic drug and can have hallucinogenic properties on it’s user. Years ago, the propaganda police put out a movie called “Reefer Madness,” which portrayed weed smokers as hysteri-

the pharmaceutical medication that he takes daily.

Of course, recreational use has never been a big deal to me. I see it way less harmful than liver killing alcohol and the overdose inducing opioids. My first memory of weed was when I was about 8 and my mother took me to (the outside of) a Santana concert. We were sitting in a van, and

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I will never forget that smell. It was my first time smelling the burning bush, and just remembered how good and unique I thought it smelled. I had no idea a the time what it was, I just knew it smelled different than anything I had smelled before. Ever since then, even through the years of not smoking, I have been and always will be an advocate for the legalization and responsible use of cannabis.

not say for most every other medicine and/or drug around today.

So what are we waiting for? The world needs more weed. Fentanyl overdoses are at a record high. Cancer is killing at alarming rates. I keep seeing articles that circulate social media saying that President Trump wants to nationally legalize weed. I hope he does. Weed has gotten too much of a bad reputation through out the years and I believe she is due for some posi Some of the biggest killers in recent years have been cancer, opitive recognition. Not only can weed oid overdose, and drunk driving. cure a lot of ailments, it opens up As I stated previously, most of the closed minds. I do believe it can shift anti-weed campaigns come from big this country into a much needed evotobacco, alcohol and pharma compa- lutionary upswing. nies. Do they want us dead? It may not be as nefarious as that, however The for-profit prison industry we do know that these are big money- complex is another proponent against making industries and they see the the legalization of weed. Countless legalization of weed as a threat to convictions over nonviolent “drug� oftheir profit margin. fenses account for the majority of our prison base. Lately, there have been

I have literally seen videos of measures to exonerate past weed conTHC attacking cancer cells, weed is victions in California. California has an excellent, natural pain killer, and been at the forefront of the fight for from personal experience, when I legalization of marijuana. California smoke weed, I drink less alcohol. Oh was the first state to medically legalize yeah, and you cannot overdose on weed with Prop 215. Since the early weed, which is something you can2000’s, they have been paving the way

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for the other states, when it comes to legalization and decriminalization. Exoneration of weed convictions would be a huge win for our entire nation. If weed is to become legalized on a federal level, then hopefully, convictions can be overturned, prison terms cut short and felonies expunged.

Is cannabis the next big business?

Green gold rush? Does it cut in to the profits of these other industries? If it induces positive change through out the country, should we care about their profits? Colorado has used it’s profit from weed legalization on educational funding and assisting the homeless. We are human beings. First and foremost, we need to take care of our people.

We need to do what is best for the population as a whole, and I think the legalization of a harmless and miraculous plant, such as THC will only further our evolution into a healthier, more peaceful society. Legalize it.

POLITICKIN’

YOUR AD HERE contact us for rates

january 21

Legal Woes Continue for Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine

by Malissa Hurry

egal challenges Federal prose-

L

continue to mount for Tekashi 6ix9ine, and it is possible that the 22 yearold Brooklyn, New York native could spend the rest of his life in federal prison. On November 19, the rapper, whose birth name is Daniel Hernandez, was part of a 6-person, 17-count federal indictment handed down by the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York. A bail request by 6ix9ine was denied, and he will likely remain in federal prison until the commencement of his trial, which is scheduled to begin September 4, 2019.

cutors have charged 6ix9ine with 6 counts of the 17 count indictment, alleging that he took part in a violent New York City gang known as Nine Trey Gangstas Bloods from 2013 to the present. He faces charges of racketeering, conspiracy, firearm possession, drug trafficking, robbery and murder in the aid of racketeering. If convict-

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ed, these charges carry a minimum sentence of 32 years with a maximum sentence of life. 6ix9ine plead not guilty to all 6 counts and is represented by Brooklyn Attorney Larry Lazzaro. In a statement made proceeding the indictment, Lazzaro indicated his client is “completely innocent of all charges.”

As if the pending federal case isn’t enough, on December 20, a bench warrant was issued against 6ix9ine, as he failed

to show up for a scheduled hearing in County Criminal Court No. 1 in Houston, Texas. This case stems from a January, 2018 incident in which the rapper allegedly assaulted a 16 year- old fan who tried to video record him. Obviously, 6ix9ine’s failure to appear would be a result of him already being detained in the federal case, and one might think the issuing of a bench warrant in the Texas case is a waste of the Court’s time and resources with such a serious federal case pending. Perhaps yet another reason why criminal justice reform is relevant and necessary. Nonetheless, if 6ix9ine were to escape the federal charges, he would have to appear in Court in Houston to resolve that case and the outstanding warrant. The

POLITICKIN’

(continued on page 45)

january 23

PIFF ALERT!!

K2 is a mixture of chemicals intended to mimic the effects of THC, What Is K2? a natural component found in REAL marijuana. The chemicals in K2 are sprayed on dried plant material and often packaged in colorful wrapping.

This packaging has been given the name s folks look for new ways of “catching a vibe”, they face “poison packets.” You think these packages need a warning label? a number of dangers that some may not be fully aware of, othI was also shocked to find out this ers may not care to know of those stuff (K2) isn’t just sold in some shady grave dangers or care about the dealer’s trap house, but some conveconsequences of using these exnient stores sell these packages under perimental drugs. K2 being one the guise of “potpourri” and “herbal of them. Don’t be fooled by the incense.” Ain’t that some s**t? name. “K2” isn’t as sweet, pure and innocent as a Kindergartener What makes this drug so dangerous is because of the number of documented could be. cases of people having hallucinations,

K2, also referred to as “spice” excessive vomiting, and rapid heart beating. Meaning your heart beating so is a synthetic form of marijuana fast it could explode. I know The Loopretty much with a bunch of s**t ney Toons made rapid heartbeats look absolutely positively NO-BODY so sweet, but it’s not. should consume. This synthetic

A

weed is nothing like “cancer killing” natural marijuana that is out there.

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K2 is actually banned in the United States, but when has something being banned actually stopped the production and distribution of any

product? Especially in the United States.

out how and where the person got the drug and if they live through it, the rapid heartbeat like Bugz Bunny watching

Upon doing research, I was Lola Bunny walk by with booty shorts unable to find one origin of the on, the damage the drugs and chemicals drug, but since K2 is cheaper than do to the brain and respiratory system marijuana (because fake s**t is should be reason enough for anyone always cheaper than the real deal not to try K2. unless we’re talking plastic surgery), many people in low-income So, what have we learned today? neighborhoods are targeted by K2 STAY AWAY FROM THAT S**T!! (K2). dealers. Mainly homeless people Honestly, not to make light of the sefor a number of reasons I can verity of the drug, but if you’re a weed think of. smoker, you deserve the best quality and that’s getting natural marijuana

For one, a K2 joint is only from your local weed dispensary. And sold for a dollar. Another reason since a lot of them are popping up all why homeless people are targeted over the nation, I need all none violent is because they are likely “untrace- weed dealers [that are] locked away in able people.” What I mean by that prison or in jail to be freed and have is if they suffer one of the danger- their records cleared. ous effects of K2 and die, they’d just be another dead homeless

That’s not what this article is about person, case closed. If they end but I’d feel like I let a group of individuup in the hospital, the hospitals als down if I didn’t mention that. Y’all won’t keep them very long withtake care now. out health insurance or any family willing to vouch for them. I doubt the cops will care enough to find --ES Writer

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Snaps submit to: editor@piffmag.com

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SNAPS

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SNAPS

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SNAPS

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SNAPS

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SNAPS

SNAPS

MODEL LIFE PHOTO : Trey Photos

MODEL MAN

by Xavier As a special dedication Magazine, I will include P.I.F.F. from my book ‘Model Life’. Stick with skills and learn the basics of industry.

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MODEL LIFE MODEL : Vett Adams

NAGEMENT 101 “CompleX” Prue to our relaunch of P.I.F.F. one chapter in every issue of on model management, titled, us each issue to pick up new managing people in the modeling

part 4 of 10

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MODEL MANAGEMENT 101 -- Xavier “CompleX” Prue

ARR

H P E ANG

Arranging photoshoots must obviously be done with selecting your photographers and my suggested recommendation is that as you grow over time, you should make it one of your goals to move towards creating and maintaining

As soon as your models have solid relationships with at least one signed their contract, it’s time to photographer in each state; starting get busy and get to work. This is with the most major cities. There are where things start to get interesta few ways to find a photographer to ing. Through all of my managerial conduct your shoots. You can either experience in the modeling industry, pay one and thus, retain all rights photoshooting has been one of my to the photos/ videos; you can find favorite aspects of the game. Every one who’ll do it for free in exchange other part of model management is for ownership of some of the rights; relatively routine; but during model or you can work out some type of shoots is where creativity is expartnership deal with the photograpressed to the fullest.

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1

S T O O H S O T O H

MODEL LIFE

still charged for 3 hours. If it occurs with my next model the following weekend, I’ve now spent $300 for 6 hours. By booking both models on the same weekend, I can turn both pher. Spending most my life in the shoots into 5 hours and save myself magazine business, I always offered $50 for the unused hour, thus only free magazine coverage for free pho- paying $250. You can find your photoshoots. This may not be an option tographers in a similar manner of for you, but perhaps you can produce how you found your models: wordother deals such as promotion covof-mouth, business cards, real-world erage of their work on your website; networking, social media, and online cut them in on a profit when sales of networking. the photos are made; VIP access during events you throw; or something Just as important as the model else creative. If you do go with pay- contract is the photo-release form ing a photographer, an important and before any work is to be perthing to find out is are they charging formed, no photoshoot should be by the hour or by the project? conducted without a new one being signed… yes – for every single shoot

If possible to swing it to your and each individual model! Again, advantage, you may be better off we’re talking about insurance. So, booking more than one model with just what is a photo-release form? the same photographer at a time. For Let me explain… by law, every time instance, if Example Photos charges a a picture or video is taken, rights to fee of $50 per hour and it takes only the material are automatically owned 2.5 hours to shoot one model, I’m by the photographer as well as each

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MODEL LIFE individual inside the material. This law protects the photographer from having their work stolen and profited off of, while also protecting anyone in the picture from being exposed to the public without consent. Violation of either can amount to huge financial damages in Court. Hence, an agreement must be made so all parties are satisfied. As a manager of your model, you want to retain these ownership rights so you can build your model’s career. The photographer may want rights to build their photography career. The photo-release form helps create an established agreement of which party owns which degree of rights and what they can do with them. Some agreements may be that a model or manager may promote the material, but not sell it. Others may state that all parties can sell, but only retain a percentage of each sale. Yet, still others may take all rights for one party.

It is ultimately between the parties, but essential before any shooting begins. Again, I’ve included copies of

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examples at the end of this chapter.

For every single new model you acquire, it is critically crucial that you make sure that one of their first photoshoot sessions consists of “the basics”. When you see a typically average model ad or shoot, it usually displays some color, creativity, and posing, or a mixture; and while that’s ok for starting shoots, this is not the basics. The basics are normal shots that are generally plain and show the model in their barest and least-accessorized form. This is so the model’s true display of height, weight, dimensions, and body marks can be exposed and includes up-close headshots and body shots from all degrees of a 360o angle; as well as upclose shots of individual body parts like legs, arms, etc. During a basic shoot, models will be barefoot and in some type of swimsuit or light, tight sleepwear or lingerie that does not hide their true figure. Without the basics shot, many major companies, modeling agencies, and casters will

MODEL LIFE not accept submissions.

After you’ve taken care of the basics, it’s time to get crazy and creative. I say creative because you don’t want to end up trying to promote shoots identical to ones already out there. While you may have some minimal success, your money-makers are going to be the material never-before-seen, never-before-done and while I won’t be able to give away any of my personal creative ideas because I intend to use them myself, I’ll tell you that the best shoots are the ones designed by thinking outsidethe-box. Instead of the simple cliché model girl in front of the car shoot, I’d go beyond normal expectations and shoot an ad with the girl standing on the roof and bashing a baseball bat into the frame. The ad would read a caption like, “Lexus CL225 – tougher than your ex-girlfriend.”

Break the mold of plain simplicity and start setting trends with your shoots – crazy trends!

Another thing to aim for with your shoots is diversity. During my initial intake with my models, I ask them what their dream career goals are and what type of shoots they’d want to try. We create a list and think of how many ways we can remix the ideas to create several more. Shaniqua Clark obtained multiple successes in her career because she has a hugely diverse portfolio. The girl’s got photos that make her look Western as well as ones that make her look like she’s under surveillance from Law & Order’s best. Her profile ranges from over hundreds of shoots and like a snowflake, no two are the same.

One thing that helps with diversity are props. In my prior example of the car model, the baseball bat would be considered a prop. Remember that during a shoot, it’s not just about shooting the model in the scene’s environment, it’s about bringing the scene to life and using it to your benefit. Some props may appear natu

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MODEL LIFE rally such as animals, fallen leaves, snow, etc. And others may be implemented such as toys, weapons, balls.

One thing to be careful and aware of though, is if you use a popularly branded prop such as say, a Dunkin Donuts coffee cup or an iPhone. Before you can sell those photos, you may have to contact the brands and get clearance to use such props, or they can sue for using their name to make financial gain.

The best way to avoid these issues?

One of my favorite activities: brand ad shooting! You try to create the most original and creative ads for a company and then, you contact them about selling them the ads and/ or contracting your model or your modeling services for future work.

Now, you’re getting paid directly by the brand and you can promote all you want without fear of a lawsuit.

The best way to avoid these issues?

One of my favorite activities: brand ad shooting! You try to create the

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most original and creative ads for a company and then, you contact them about selling them the ads and/ or contracting your model or your modeling services for future work.

Now, you’re getting paid directly by the brand and you can promote all you want without fear of a lawsuit.

Posing is one of the biggest aspects of the shoot and should be done properly. Each pose from the body angles to facial expression should match the message or story being conveyed in the shot. In my prior car ad, the model should have an expression of satisfied rage or revenge to bring out the correct expressed image.

Upon the completion of the shoot, you should get a CD or USB drive with the material shot; so you can begin editing as soon as you’d like to or are able to. In some cases, a photographer may have you wait before releasing the material to you because they’ve agreed to handle some of the editing for you, or they need to

(continued from page 23) most likely scenario, however, is that the bench warrant will expire while the federal case is pending.

It has also been reported that 6ix9ine is under investigation for involvement in the attempted shooting of rapper Chief Keep in mind that if this is not the case and the photographer is not go- Keef, which occurred outside the W Hotel in Manhattan. Although he was ing to assist with editing, editing is a very tedious and time-consuming in Los Angeles at the time of the shooting, TMZ reports that a leaked Facejob. At times, I’ve spent hours to Time video may implicate the rapper, days editing one shoot. You may and an investigation is being held as to want to consider paying an editor whether or not he ordered the hit. to help save you time; unless you alDespite his plethora of legal issues, ready have one in your company. within 24 hours of the November 27th release of his album “Dummy Boy” 6 tracks hit the iTunes top 10 and it became the top-paid digital album on Amazon, according to TMZ. If you’re wondering whether or not 6ix9ine will be receiving any proceeds from the sales, the answer is maybe not. It has been reported that prosecutors are requesting that his accounts be seized, as they believe any monies made will “glorify gang life and his alleged criminal activities.” With the legal road ahead of him, 6ix9ine may need all the proceeds he can get.

hand-select which shots they’ll be retaining all rights to; but that would be covered in your photo-release form signed earlier.

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CHANEL BRACY

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DRIPPIN’ ON THE DRUMS interview

by Xavier “CompleX” Prue

aka

iCE wATER pERCUSSION january 47

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^ CLICK VIDEO TO SEE CHANEL BRACY GO HAM ^ Chanel Bracy, also known as Ice Water Percussion as become a legend in Texas. A plethora of achievements, she’s played for acts such as T.I., Future, Usher, and more! Creating her own lane and inventing the term Drumcussionist, she’s opened up a whole new genre and broke all the rules to traditional drumming and playing the timbales. Her skills have been showcased on the Steve Harvey Show and she’s played beside some of Texas’ hottest DJs including K104’s Throwdown Sam, 97.9 the Beat’s DJ TDK, and WACO’S 104.9 The Beat’s DJ CYSE. She sits down with P.I.F.F. to explain how she started her career and how she became Ice Water Percussion.

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"If I’m the only one doing this, I gotta keep going!"

- Chanel Bracy CEO; Ice Water Percussion january 51

Yeah, you actually went and trademarked it, right?

Yeah, I did... and it’s a percussionist and a drummer combined into one. And it’s a style I had to create to kind of... brand myself. The instrument I play is called timbales. (Laughing) Not everyone knows what it is when they see it... it’s a Spanish instrument, but I actually play it like a drum set.

So, that’s a style I created and that’s how I created the term drumcussionist.

I think you’re also the first drummer that I’ve ever heard put out a mixtape.

I don’t know. I might possibly be the first timbale player to put PIFF: What in the world is Chanel: Drumcussionist is out a mixtape, but a drumcussionist? a word that I made up.

I’m definitely the first drumcussionist to do it for sure. I put out ‘2

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Drums & A Cowbell’ on Dat Piff in 2015 I think... I think I put out two of ‘em, I don’t remember. I actually have a song now, but the song is actually a rap song that I wrote where I’m going to be doing the lyrics and playing the drums on top of the song. I’m not trying to be a rapper, but to put myself out there more and the style I created, the rap song would promote the brand.

How did you get into playing the timbales?

In the beginning [when I started], I didn’t know there was a certain way to play it and I didn’t know I was playing it differently until someone brought it to my attention. It was a musician who told me that I needed to pick if I was either going to be a percussionist or a drummer.

Yeah, like, they lookin’ at you like you can’t do both, right? And you thinkin’ ‘why not?’

Yeah. He literally told me I can’t be both. I knew right then and there like... if I’m the only one doing this, I gotta keep going. And ev-

COVER FEATURE erybody liked it when I was playing in public. And ever since that day, I been doing what I do. I know people like it because I wouldn’t still be in the business today if they didn’t. If somebody tells me I can’t do something, or that they don’t like my idea, I’m gonna keep doing it anyway.

And that’s what I noticed about you because a lot of your videos are very creative and outside-thebox... what goes through your mind when you’re coming up with your video concepts?

I have a bunch of old videos and a bunch of new videos out, so I’m not sure which ones you’ve seen, but a lot of times, the outfits may come from an artist’s music video that I’m doing a cover on. For instance, Sex Metal Barbie came from a rock song and in their music video if you watch it, they’re wearing pink masks, so that’s why I wore the pink mask. It was always just to show appreciation to

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the artists I’m covering. When I shoot my videos, I really don’t rehearse or anything. I just go with the flow and go off of improv. Most of my videos are pretty much just exactly how I performed it in that moment, that day. The only time I really rehearse is if I’m dancing standing up because I want to make sure I don’t fall down [at the show].

What gets you in the zone when you’re ready to perform for people?

In the beginning, I’m always nervous.

No one knows I’m nervous; I put on a front. I gotta just be like, ‘ok, I’m gonna be confident’ and after I get past the first part of the song, the anxiety starts going away as I start warming up and I let go and the rest just comes out naturally.

A lot of people compare you to Sheila E, right?

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They compare us because she also plays the timbales, but I’m the only one that plays them like a drum set.

We play the same instrument, but we have two different styles. She plays

it the traditional way, but I play it a whole different way. I turn an instrument into another instrument; it’s basically like I’m fusing two instruments into one.

with T-Pain

You’re basically a legend down in Houston, right?

I’m actually in Dallas, but I play everywhere in Texas. I have two sponsors – one who sponsors my drumsticks and one who sponsors my drumsticks holder.

Did you ever dream you’d be right here?

No, I really didn’t because in the beginning, I had ideas of being in a band, but for me, the band thing didn’t work out too well. Then, I started playing with DJs and I love to play with DJs to this day. After that, I started playing with rappers and singers too and I told them they don’t need a band, they just need me because I can cover both the drums and the percussion while they rap. And then I woke up one day and decided I don’t need to open up for other people; I can do my own shows. And then, I started doing that and I would have a track playing in the background as I cov-

ered the beat. I just combined all my services into one and you can also book me for studio sessions if you want me to record on your track. I do that too.

You’ve opened up for Texas acts from J Dawg to Zro and mainstream artists like T.I. and Usher and T-Pain... what’s been your most memorable experience?

It was Usher’s OMG 2010 tour and

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we was in Dallas. I was hyped.

I just knew I was going to meet him. Usher came really, really late, close to 1 in the morning and the promoter was like, “we’re gonna have Usher come in the room and just jam out with you and the DJ while you’re playing” and I’m like, “ok, cool, I’m gonna stay my ass up in this room and play! Well, because I have to anyway (laughs).

The night goes on and he never comes to our room, so when I take a break, I ask the promoter when he’s coming through and he tells me, “oh, I’m sorry, you just missed him – he left!” And I’m like wow... y’all couldn’t come get me to take a break and meet him? There is no other percussionist that’s opened up for Usher, so it was a big compliment to me, but I was disappointed I didn’t meet him.

Bracy”. And he came up with it right there... he said, “you should be called Ice Water Percussion.”

And I’m like, “ok, but what does it mean?” And he says, “’it means you’re cold as ice and you flow with the music!” And that’s where the name came from.

I love your story of how you got the name Ice Water Percussion.

Can you share how that came about, for those who don’t know?

I have a song I’ll be putting out called ‘Timbale Queen”. So, just keep your eyes and ears open ‘cause I definitely got more in store for y’all.

I was at an event and I was playing for all the rappers at the event and one of them, an artist named Million, asked me, “what do you go by?” And I said, “I just go by first and last name... Chanel

So officially, then, your artist name is not Chanel Bracy, but Ice Water Percussion? Or do you go by both?

People know me by both, but Ice Water Percussion is mostly the name I use for my business and my brand. Chanel Bracy is who I go by when I’m doing my performances.

So, it’s pretty much, Chanel Bracy, CEO of Ice Water Percussion.

What else you got brewing in the pot?

FOR MORE ON GOYA HONEY:

www.icewaterpercussion.com january 59

“ I woke up

one

day and decided i don’t need to open up for other people; i can do my

”

own shows!

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-- chanel bracy aka ice water percussion january 61

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ADVISORY

REAL

with Taj

NO TOPIC

64 P.I.F.F. 2019

WARNING!!!

TALK

“Real Talk” Thomas

IS SAFE

january 65

REAL TALK Puff puff pass, it’s my turn!

Welcome everybody, who is tuning in to read this latest installment of PIFF. Ahh, PIFF, that’s that good ish, right?

That sticky icky oooh-wee!!??!!??

Well, yeah, it is....but just as we all (or most of us) like to indulge in rolling up and sparking a fat one in our own private time for personal use, there are other ways that PIFF can be beneficial, even positive. And, judging by the way things are headed today, the future of PIFF, bud, kush, sour or whatever you call it is looking pretty influential.

I know you see what I did there! Lol Short history lesson: Back in the day weed was bad. Nowadays weed is good. But why?

There is a lot of stigma surrounding the plant that grows naturally on the face of this beautiful Earth.

Depending on how you decide to indulge, the effects are varying. Most people smoke it, some people eat it,

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but there are many many many other ways you can use it, and nowadays the research that is developing his monumental.

Many of the United States across America are slowly beginning to legalize this herb. Most of these states are legalizing on a medicinal level, meaning that if you have a serious illness and are pre-approved by your doctor, you are able to obtain a medical license so you can legally enter a dispensary and purchase whatever you need to without legal repercussions, so long that you hold a license.

Other states are legalizing on a recreational level, meaning that if you are over the age of 21, you are able to walk into a dispensary and purchase up to a pre-selected amount of green and enjoy without any ramifications.

Both options seem to be one small step for man, but one giant leap for mankind. Yet, we have a long way to go. The government is slowly but surely starting to realize the benefits Mary Jane, also realizing that it is close to impossible to control the substance, because it’s not a “substance.” (At least not the substance found in meth, crack, cocaine, heroin, or even alcohol

and cigarettes for that matter.)

With debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer’s, PTSD, among others including the most notorious: Cancer, we have been led to believe that pharmaceutical companies have our best interest at heart, when in reality THEY DON’T. Suggested treatments such as chemotherapy are known to be unnatural, expensive and end up destroying the body worse than any other type of treatment.

But the government controls the pharmaceutical companies and because they have no control over the free market, they have deemed this gracious plant illegal on a federal level, therefore allowing whoever to be in possession of this healing aid to be arrested, and in most instances, incarcerated for ridiculous amounts of time. Thank goodness for the power of the individual states who are slowly starting to realize that this is not a bad thing.

With states such as Oregon, Washington, Colorado and even Massachusetts legalizing on a recreational level, government and citizens alike are starting to realize that this is very

REAL TALK beneficial across the board. From the benefits of medicinal use all the way down to taxing the product for profit, it’s a win-win for everybody. And just because it’s starting to become legal, don’t think that everybody is walking down the street smoking a joint out in broad daylight. There are people who truly need this medicine for its other intentions.

Home chemists have been breaking down the valuable THC into home remedies. Whether it be making skin cream for softer skin or skin cream for healing a skin disorder. Whether it be making hair gel for soft and luxurious hair, or hair gel for growing new hair because the chemotherapy killed all of their hair follicles. F*ck it, some people concentrate the THC content to see how high they can get. I dig it.

But there are others who concentrate the THC content so they can take a shot to cure their seizures in an instant.

So yeah, back in the old days, this un-

january 67

known plant that has been growing since the beginning of time has scared people who knew nothing about it. But with more and more people doing proper research, we are beginning to see a day where this is becoming accepted, let alone understood. The market for marijuana is growing rapidly, just as rapidly as when you plant your first seed of that OG Kush.

A growing market means more access to more natural remedies, rather than having to be subjected to chemicals prescribed by your doctor, that sometimes may or may not have been approved by the FDA (whatever it is they do anyway.) And if you are against marijuana, remember: YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY IT! And that’s Real Talk.

P.S. Free my n***a Johnny serving 20 years for getting caught with an 8th of haze. He probably has better ideas for this growing economy than the dudes in Washington DC. and.....

P.P.S. ABSOLUTELY NO ONE has died from overdosing on weed.

You can quote me on it too!

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nOVEMBER 69

WHO’S THAT CHICK?

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Stay tuned to see her full interview in an upcoming issue of P.I.F.F. Magazine.

january 71

EJ Reece

Music artist

Why I SMOKE Honestly, I smoke for various reasons. I’ve been smoking since 2009.

First I was smoking out of curiosity then I just liked the way I felt. As I got older, it also became a means to “get away” from your problems.

After a long day at work it’s nice to come home to smoke and relax. I do see how some people get lazy from it.

They need to make sure it’s sativa instead of indica leaves. Overall, I love cannabis and glad it’s being legalized slowly but surely.

eral level. My hope is as more states fully legalize, we can free American citizens in jail because of possession/ distribution charges. Minorities are dealing with this the most specifically black men. It’s not right to have dispensaries now selling several pounds a week while someone is in jail over much less. There needs to be a change.

This is not right! I believe though there is still hope because we are moving in the right direction.

Being a medical marijuana patient is great. Not only can I walk into any of the 60+ dispensaries in Arizona, there’s also delivery. I’ve enjoyed this much more than going to the typical dealer with 1-3 choices and more expensive. But what’s most important Stance on Legalization: to me is the relief it brings me and millions of others that deal with pain, I’m glad we’ve seen states like Calietc.. More and more people are fed up fornia, Washington, and even Nevada with taking pills and are interested in now legalize weed. Here in Arizona, better options. Cannabis helps with medical marijuana has been legal a ton of issues and I’m glad Arizona for a few years now. I’m a patient as has the program. Hopefully we can well and have had my medical card be fully legal here soon. Everyone defor 3 years now. The medical set up serves the highest quality flower and is great, with lots of dispensaries in service! the valley to choose from. But recreational smoking is still illegal in Arizona and most of the states on a fed-

72 P.I.F.F. 2019

Rí Royal

Videographer/ Video Editor / Assistant Editor WHY I

DON’T SMOKE

DEBATE be anything wrong with saying that?

Most people say things like, “It helps I don’t smoke or use marijuana in any me stay calm. It helps my pain. It way because the two times that I have helps me be less stressed.” Although, been high, have been extremely bad those are all very valid points, I feel experiences. I’ve also seen what it does like people just say those phrases so to most people that have been in my they won’t be judged and can still life and I don’t want that for myself. justify the behavior of abusing it.

Though weed is no longer recognized as a drug anymore and in most states legalized, I believe it shouldn’t be for recreational use. I believe this because, let’s all be honest with ourselves here, most people who smoke marijuana say they do because it helps them. Which I completely understand. However, let’s face it. Most people just like being high. That’s all it is.

Is your life so intolerable to the point where you can’t find other many useful coping skills on your own and you have to depend on marijuana to fix that for you?

I believe there has to be a level of accountability and responsibility. I feel like the only reason people get mad about not legalizing it recreationally is because they’re one of the people Don’t be afraid to say it. Take accountwho abuse it. If you don’t have a card, ability. You do use marijuana to get it’s because you didn’t meet the high and only for that reason. Why do requirements. you think you rarely hear people say out in the open, “Oh I smoke because I like getting high.” Let that sink in really quick. What would be so wrong about saying that? Why would there

january 73

S

werving on the roads to

notoriety, Tory Lanez and

Joyner Lucas both went at full

speed in their recent rap battle...but to be frank, Tory Lanez should’ve stayed in his own lane.

Over the past [month] these two artists revved things up in the hip hop scene with their rebuttal of bars.

The reason this dispute shifted into gear was because of a comment Tory Lanez made about the lyrical

Tory Lanez

master on Instagram live. In the midst of him speaking to a fan, Mr Lanez said and I quote

74 P.I.F.F. 2019

that “The Joyner kid was nice but he can’t f*** with him,” and that “he wasn’t on his level”.

From there, it was only right that Joyner defended himself and so Lucas challenged the auto-tuned singer/emcee to a rap duel through Instagram, “Let the fans decide who ain’t f*ckin with who” Lucas commented underneath a clip he posted of the ‘Love Me Now?’ artist and with no hesitation, Mr Lanez accepted.

The battle itself curated a list of remixes, which first started with

a zip of bars from Tory in a remake of “Lucky You” by Eminem ft Joyner Lucas where he states in the beginning that he has “a million flows” and can go silly with those”.

Joyner then responded with an execution to Tory’s career in “Litty Again”, stating in one line “Don’t call me a kid, I’m your Papi and dada” and “Take all that auto tune back to T-Pain”. Lucas even threw a few jabs at Lil 14 (due to the fact that Trippie expressed his support for Tory) with

P.I.F.F. REVIEW ya to a million on the ‘Gram/ Chris Brown tried, n*gga failed both times/ I done took ya page to a million in a day/ If you ask me, n*gga, I’m ya motherf**ing cosign.

Alas, the battle was squashed by Joyner’s freestyle on Kodak Blacks song “Zeze” where he spit lines like “You call yourself Tory after the No-

vs Joyner Lucas BATTLE OF THE YR

by Natalee Gilbert

the coupled up bars “You and Trippie better have you some back up/ Ren and Stimpy looking agi and staggered”. With those bars alone, it was enough to shake up the whole planet, but the battle didn’t stop there.

Skyrocketing with a comet of words in the same instrumental, Tory Lanez also came up with a few noted bars at the Mississippian and even though the two were laughing it up prior to the release, Tory had to “pull the heat fast and blast”: “I’ma do this n*gga like I was chewing a pork rind n*gga Eminem couldn’t get

torious B.I.G/ Biggie turning in his grave when he hear yo sh*t” and “Your real name is Daystar, you been dying to shine/And when you sing you kinda sound like you dying sometimes” and while Tory “claims” that he was victorious at the end, we all know who earned their seat at the emcee throne.

Joyner Lucas, the man who “murdered Mr Fargo with his wack little Cat in the Hat raps” shall forever reign. He was swift with his lyrical deliveries and had a bullet of punchlines to shoot at the rhymester, so what else is there to really think about?

P.I.F.F. REVIEW

the Joint Cheefs

by Natalee Gilbert

Wafting their chantable ad libs through heavy marijuana smoke, this group’s sound floats smoothly to your

ear canals. The Joint Cheefs allows you to let your conscious be free through their use of moderate boom bap and sharp witted lyrics‌ but to be more

76 P.I.F.F. 2019

clear, I can say that this trio changes the high experience by implicating an old feel of New York rap through their wrap of rhymes *that solely support the 420 movement* and calm aesthetic.

To begin, Geo The Rico,

Sonny Blue Note and Loud Pack Ralph formulated as a triad one day while working in their studio in the Bronx.

“We are producers and engineers so the idea itself just grew organically” says Geo the Rican.

They have been making music for some time but to get to where they are now they pretty much just smoked a lot (no pun intended) and became more personal with their music, putting their trials and tribulations through their rhymes and as a result they have been gaining a peak of listeners on a daily basis.

To separate theirselves from the rest of flourishing emcees, the Joint Cheefs actually live through what they rap about. “We’re in a lane that we want to be in. It’s not too crowded, some people might say it’s our own and we’re going to hot box all the way to the top”

Aside from their recent re-

P.I.F.F. REVIEW When it comes to favorite strands, Sonny Blue Note enjoys Indica because it helps him sleep, Geo the Rican chooses Sativa because it helps him stay focused and Loud Pack Ralph enjoys hybrid because he just wants to get high.

Fun fact: Their favorite slang is between “BroGod” and “Deadass” because they love to pay homage to their hometown.

lease of “Never Canoe” on April 20th 2018, the Joint Cheefs also released their second album

“Charge” which is currently

available on all platforms.

january 77

STREET AFFAIR I promize u nothing is moor special 2 me Than the bond u n I share, But I’m tied 2 the hood, Caught up in a street affair.

It’s like I’m married 2 the game And it won’t give me a divorce, Like the Hustle is the seed I feed Thru an umbilical kord.

I wanna share my whole world with u

78 P.I.F.F. 2019

P.I.F.F. POETRY And never pull apart.

I wanna draw closer 2 u, But sometimes I don’t know how or where 2 start...

When u were designed, God had u in mind, the finest piece of art...

But it’s hard to explain why The streets are in my heart.

U’ve got everything I want, Everything I need.

I can’t even stunt, U’re the woman of my dreams.

I wanna express my inner feelings 4 u, Tell u exactly how I feel and what I mean...

I just wish my street affair Didn’t keep coming in between.

--Xavier “Complex” Prue

january 79

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84 P.I.F.F. 2019