RGP Muse Magazine July 2022 Issue 4

RGP MUSE JULY 2022 | ISSUE NO. 4 PLUS MORE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS!

EXCLUSIVE!

ONLY IN RGP!

BRIAN W. SMITH Smith discusses his hit novels such as "The Sleepy Carter Mysteries" a fivebook series, his film and screenwriting experiences, the startup of his new company/script writing agency-The Script Repository LLC. and his experience and expertise as a wellseasoned writer and entrepreneur, and much more!

THE ARTIST ANUBIS The story of a Harlem-based spoken word poet/artist, cultural curator, and community cultivator. Anubis tells his personal journey of writing, creating, and the beginnings of his safe space -The Harlem Bomb Shelter: Spoken Word Open Mic & Showcase, which provides not only a safe space for creativity but a stage for amateur and award-winning poets and performers and much more!

TAREL NAIM AUSTIN "CREATING AND EXPLORING YOUR TALENTS, IS TO BE FREE TO SHARE AND INSPIRE!"-W.A

I_SOLANGE TRE MUNDY ANGELA THOMAS SMITH YVETTE SANTANA AKA TINYS_ CREATIONS SMOOVE BABII K HYPH

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ABOUT

RGP

MUSE

RGP Muse Magazine started as a fleeting idea before I took the plunge and started my first issue. This magazine is not only my first written publication ever, but it's my greatest accomplishment to date. No matter what anyone says, I'm proud to have done it, created it, cried over it, and I am so blessed to share my hard work with others.

RGP Muse Magazine welcomes all. Do you have a story? RGP Muse will share it!

I want to personally thank all of the features that have been and will be a part of RGP Muse Magazine! Without your interest and participation, RGP Muse Magazine would go unnoticed. I thank you.

social: @RahwayGirlzPublishing @Wynter Aiken ph: 732-912-6632

www.rahwaygirlzpublishing.com/wynter emsil: wynteraiken@yahoo.com

RAHWAY GIRLZ PUBLISHING

page 3 OUR TEAM RGP Muse Magazine under Rahway Girlz Publishing is an all black women publishing team. With Hannah Abiona working under RGP Muse Magazine as Assistant Editor, RGP Muse Magazine continues to grow and shine.

WYNTER AIKEN Writer and content creator under Rahway Girlz Publishing. Founder and Editor-In-Chief of RGP Muse Magazine.

RASHONDA AIKEN

HANNAH ABIONA

Founder and CEO of Rahway Girlz Publishing. Assistant Editor for RGP Muse Magazine.

Author and Editor. Assistant Editor for RGP Muse Magazine. Author of "Office Mouse" available via Amazon.

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RAHWAY GIRLZ PUBLISHING

Wynter Aiken EDITOR'S NOTE

RGP Muse Magazine features people from all walks of life! From poetry, fashion, literature, and

RGP Muse Magazine has graced readers with a 4th issue! We are on our way up and it's thanks to you, the amazingly talented and extraordinary artists who have shared not only their passion but

entrepreneurship to music, entertainment, and sportsmanship. If you have a story, then I will gladly share that story. We all have a story to tell and mine plays a role in helping others get their stories heard.

dedication to their crafts. I am deeply honored to have published these journeys, all different, all deep, and all inspirational.

I never thought I'd make i to a 4th issue honestly. I didn't think RGP Muse would do as well as it has. I doubted my abilities to produce content worthy of consumption but yet-here we are! I'm so proud of this magazine and so thankful for all of the support, feedback, and encouragement from all of those that have read RGP Muse Magazine. Here's to many more issues! Cheers!

“If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it. We are our own books, write, create and share your beloved story." -Toni Morrison

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THE TABLE OF

Contents 3

Our Team

03

The team behind RGP Muse Magazine.

4

Editor Wynter Aiken

04

A love letter to readers and supporters.

8

Tre Mundy

08

All about Mundy's clothing line Haute Ecole Est. 1996, his entrepreneurship journey, and more.

16

Brian W. Smith

16

Smith gives an inside scoop on his Sleepy Carter Mystery Series, and why he got into screenwriting.

25

Tarel Naim Austin Austin shares with readers more about his debut novel "The Special Kid", as well as what being a writer and entertainer means to him.

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

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THE TABLE OF

Contents 35

35

I_Solange Solange speaks about his destiny of being an artist and poet, along with what his artistry means to him!

39

Yvette "Tinys_Creations" Santana 39 Yvette details her novel and mental health movement "I'm Not Crazy", what the stigma and healing process behind mental health means to her and much more.

49

Minister Sharon Phillips

49

Minister Philips shares with readers her story of survival, how she uses her stories to mentor women in healing, and how God lead her onto her path!

53

TheArtistAnubis

53

Anubis gives readers an inside look into his successful organization and safe space "The Harlem Bomb Shelter", in addition to how he got his start in poetry.

64

Angela Thomas Smith Smith describes why she is known in the literary world as "The Queen of Collaborations", as well as how she started her thriving magazine and movement both Aspiring Authors Magazine and #L3MOVEMENT and the AAALAC (African American Author Literacy Awareness Campaign).

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

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03

page 7

THE TABLE OF

Contents 70

K Hyph

70

K Hyph describes his first performance, why he started rapping, and gives advice to other rappers just starting out!

75

Smoove Babii

75

Smoove Babii explains his unique stage name, shares the personal and deep stories behind his poems, and what he plans to do next in the coming months.

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

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TRE MUNDY

HAUTE ÉCOLE EST. 1996 Building a Fashion Empire is just one the things on Tre Mundy's to-do list!

All Photos Belong to Tre Mundy

Tre Mundy has established his own fashion empire-from a clothing line to new and upcoming businesses.

Having built it from the ground up, Tre is consistently growing and evolving, putting his name in all creative spaces.

Who exactly is Tre Mundy-entrepreneur, designer and creator?

Tre Mundy is a 26 year old “culture radical” from the north side of Pittsburgh, PA. I’m someone who does exactly what I want creatively.

I have never placed limitations on myself. I will place bets on myself against anyone or anything. My self confidence is what makes me who I am, it makes a lot people uncomfortable but I know I wouldn’t of made it this far if I wasn’t confident in myself.

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page 9 High Class Fashion

Haute École est. 1996

Fashion hasn't always been at the forefront of Trey's mind. It didn't start out as a "venture" as Mundy puts it, instead his fashion line Haute École est. 1996, blossomed from inspiration, friends, family members, and own sense of style being some of the factors that made Haute École est. 1996 what it is today.

How did you know fashion was the creative direction that you wanted to venture into?

I never really looked at fashion as a venture. As a kid, I would look through my older cousin's clothes and he always had the newest fashion and throwback jerseys. I used to always dig through his closet knowing I couldn’t fit any of his clothes. I’ve always been a sneakerhead. “I stayed with the heat.” I would look at all my shoes and imagine how I would design shoes if I had the opportunity.

In this issue, What was it about sneakers that really progressed your desire to start a brand and expand on your creativity?

What really enhanced my sneaker collection was AAU basketball. There were never any uniform restrictions, so I would wear a different pair of Nikes every game. Growing up I never really had time to hone in on my creative abilities with sports and all. In high school, art class was the only time I had to be creative. A lot of the art projects that I did, my art teacher would buy from me. I started taking fashion seriously in college when I knew it could become a career. In college, I was the one who the basketball team would come to about getting shoes. I fell in love with fashion when I saw how I could boost people's confidence and image.

page 10 inspiration

MY GRANDFATHER BINGO MUNDY OF THE MARCEL’S ALSO PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE. HE HAD SUCH A PRESTIGIOUS SENSE OF STYLE. MOVIES, MUSIC AND DIFFERENT CULTURAL EVENTS GIVE ME INSPIRATION FOR DIFFERENT CONCEPTS. Inspiration can be found everywhere and in anything. For Tre, inspiration for Haute École est. 1996 blossomed out of the college experience. An experience where creativity has the chance to soar beyond textbooks.

You've established your fashion brandHaute Ecole, what is the backstory and inspiration behind building this brand?

The inspiration for the name Haute École est. 1996 came from my college museum ethics class. It was a frequent word and stood out to me. I researched the word and found that it means "high class" in French. At that time I was looking for a therapeutic outlet. The summer after my sophomore year of college I did an internship for the Allegheny County Treasurer doing asset management, it was pretty cool.

rahway girlz publishing

inspiration

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CONTENT CREATOR INNOVATOR TRE MUNDY

When you want something done, do it yourself. This is a motto that Tre went by when he first launched his clothing line in 2019. Now, in 2022, his brand is here and thriving. He gives readers an insight into the process of his first launch and if he plans to collaborate with other fashion brands in the near future.

SOMEWHERE IN THE FUTURE, I’D LIKE TO DO SOME PROJECTS WITH A MAJOR BRAND OR CULTURAL ICON.

When was the first launch of your collection?

My first launch for my brand was in 2019, it was very bitter-sweet. I think the actual launching of the brand and the products were scarier than the actual process. I enjoyed the process and took it one step at a time -from learning

Do you think collaborations take away the value of your initial voice of your brand or betters it in the long run?

graphic design to actually coming up with the logo and designs, as well as

I won’t have to compromise the value of my brand to work with

getting everything manufactured. It was such a relief to see my dreams come

another brand. But, I’m still open to collaborating with based brands

to a reality.

from all over the world. Somewhere in the future, I’d like to do some

Have you launched your fashion brand with other fashion platforms such as

projects with a major brand or cultural icon.

collaborations? If so, who were they? If not, what other fashion brands would you want to launch and collaborate with?

I did a quick strike limited release with my little brother Trez Jones' brand "The Native Moon". I also had a few interviews with blogs and podcast such as Hotxx Magazine and The Scumbags podcast. I haven’t really done too many collaborations because I have been trying to build a stronger brand identity, for when I do eventually collaborate with other brands.

rahway girlz publishing

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HAUTE ÉCOLE=WOMEN'S FASHION LINE? STAY TUNED!

Expanding Into New Things!

With Haute École est. 1996 growing and evolving as an established fashion brand, the men have been kept stylish-decked out in the latest collections of Hate Ecole, but what about women? Tre gives an insight on whether he will expand into new territory.

I plan on expanding into women’s clothing in a year or two for sure.

I’ll propose bringing in a woman designer to help with the womenswear. I even ask ladies their prospective on styles they would like to see men in.

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Haute Ecole est. 1996 is guaranteed to reach new heights in the fashion and culture industry. With his connections and determination to expand in all aspects of his brand, readers, and supporters of Tre are sure to see new material in the coming months and years. Talent never sleeps and Tre is just getting started!

Do you plan on expanding your brand into other areas besides fashion given that you're a creator and perhaps an influencer for others' inspiration?

Yes, actually. I’m involved with a few projects outside of my clothing brand. I sell a lot of my art and graphic designs. That’s like my bread and butter outside of Haute Ecole est. 1996. I only started graphic designing so I could design my own clothes.

My team and I have been putting together ideas for movies and skits. I really don’t see myself being another brand's influencer, but I’d do a collaboration or some type of partnership.

Self-establishing yourself in any kind of industry can be tough, draining, and even doubtful. But, with courage, motivation, and as Tre puts itsacrifice, your dreams and goals can come full circle. Just keep pushing and never give up.

What does self-establishment mean to you?

You're only growing and evolving as a creator and brand, how can you further establish yourself after all that you've built thus far?

I think self-establishment means building the lifestyle that you want your way without compromise or selling yourself short. I’m learning that it comes with a lot of sacrifice and discipline. I’ve also learned that even though you had a specific vision of how you’d like to build your life, I’m going to keep building off what I’ve already built by being a student of the game.

Is there a message you follow that keeps you in this mindset?

My father always said, “You’re not growing if you’re not learning”. Taking risks is also a key element because you’ll learn a lot about your strengths and weaknesses in those moments.

“NOTE TO SELF; NOBODY IS BUILT LIKE YOU, YOU DESIGNED YOURSELF” – JAY-Z

rahway girlz publishing

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HAUTE . t s e e Ecol 1996

I have a lot up my sleeves. I can’t really share because a lot of the upcoming stuff is very unpredictable and I don’t have any solid timeline on when these projects will be done.

But I have a lot of epic ideas I’m working on.

But just know they are going to be iconic.

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Tre Mundy

FASHION DESIGNER

Tre Mundy is a Fashion Designer and Owner and Founder of Clothing Company Haute Ecole est. 1996.

He is also a entrepreneur, producer, and selfinfluencer.

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Website: www.est-96.com Instagram: @Hauteecole96 Twitter: @Mundymcfly Facebook: @Haute École est 1996, Tre Mundy

page 16 Brian W. Smith has been in the writing and creating industry for many years, most supporters and readers know him as the best-selling author behind the famous hit book series "The Sleepy Carter Mystery" Series. He has captivated audiences alike with his gripping storytelling and doesn't plan on stopping any time soon! We may even see him on the big screen as well. Smith tells readers who he is and what he continues to achieve from

The Man Behind Many Screens

writing to even helping writers get a leg up in this cutthroat industry.

Who is Brian W. Smith-best-selling author, entrepreneur, screenwriter, ghostwriter, and mentor?

I was born and raised in New Orleans. I became a father at the age of 17 and was told by my own father, 'I don't know what you gon' do, but when you graduate high school, you're gettin' the hell out of here because me and your mama ain't raising your child.' I graduated high school in August (my 1.80 GPA, meant I needed to go to summer school to get my diploma), and by October, I was in military boot camp. I spent a decade in the U.S. Army. After getting out in 1996, my first job as a civilian paid $7.25 an hour. I was 27 years old, living back in New Orleans with a wife and three kids, and broke. One day, I got sick and tired of being sick and tired. I knew I wasn't going to rejoin the military, so I used my G.I. Bill to go to

Brian W. Smith shares with readers his endless journey of writing, mentorship, screen writing, ghost writing, teaching and more details in how the famous character Donald "Sleepy" Carter came to be!

college. Within ten years, I'd earned three degrees (2 Bachelor's Degrees and an MBA). By my 37th birthday, I was making six figures. Life was good until 2009 when I got laid-off from my fancy corporate job, with no warning, in the middle of the recession. I was so upset at how cold/foul my lay-off was handled, that I vowed to never go back to corporate America. I poured all of my energy into learning the craft of writing novels. By 2011, I signed a major deal with Simon and Schuster, became an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at two colleges here in Dallas, Texas, and for the past eleven years, all I do is write novels for myself, ghostwrite novels for others, and teach Creative Writing at college during the semesters when my schedule will permit.

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DECEMBER 2016

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POSTMODERN PAINTING. Stella alternately paints in oil and watercolor

DONALD "SLEEPY" CARTER. THE FAMOUS MYSTERY MAN. The Sleepy Carter Mystery series isn't just a " mystery" series but a series filled with drama, loyalty, community, family, and above all-murder. Readers dive into the world of Donald "Sleepy" Carter, a man who takes on the toughest of cases all the while dealing with obstacles of his own life. Questions and Answers are formed, and Brian W. Smith takes you on a wild ride.

Your best-selling series "The Sleepy Carter Mysteries" series is a hit among readers and is currently being considered for a television series in Hollywood-how did the main character Donald "Sleepy" Carter come to life?

I decided to create a Mystery character called, Donald "Sleepy" Carter. And because I'd been studying mysteries since I was a child, I knew that uniqueness is what makes a mystery character stand out. So, my Sleepy Carter character is a former New Orleans Homicide Detective whom everyone thinks is dead. But he's not dead, he's homeless and living on the streets of New Orleans...and still solving the cities toughest murder cases from the shadows. More than 50 Literary Agents rejected the series. So, I got frustrated with waiting on someone to give me a break, and decided to self-publish the series. After five books into the series (all 5 books have debuted on the Amazon Bestsellers List), the Sleepy Carter series has been adapted into a screenplay and is now being shopped in Hollywood to become a TV Series.

All Photos Belong to Brian W. Smith

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ALWAYS BEEN A MYSTERY FAN

BRIAN'S LOVE FOR THE MYSTERY GENRE

As children and even into adulthood, we read books of any kind.

Most times we pick a favorite genre like supernatural romance or horror sci-fi. Brian has always been a mystery junky!

How has the genre of mystery made you the writer you are today?

I've always been a mystery junky. Even as a child, my favorite cartoon was Scooby-Doo. My favorite board game was Clue.

Anything that required me to guess the ending always intrigued me. Fast forward to adulthood.

What about the genre has given your hit series the exposure that it has?

I'm writing successful standalone novels, but my bookshelf is cluttered with Agatha Christie's books. My DVR is filled with a bunch of Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, and Columbo movies. One day it hit me like a ton of bricks...other than Walter Mosley, there aren't many black mystery writers. As a matter of fact, most avid readers can't name three black mystery writers to this day. That's when that MBA that I earned kicked in; real profits lie in the areas your competitors don't exist. The black literary world is saturated with Romance, Urban-Lit, and Christian Fiction writers, but there aren't many mystery writers.

LIFE TAKES A TURN

Brian details the shocking story behind this best seller.

How did you know writing was your calling?

I didn't know I was going to be a writer; it was never a passion or dream of mine.

But the lord works in mysterious ways.

Remember the baby I "fathered" when I was 17 years old and joined the Army to take care of? Well, when that child turned 17 years old, I discovered (via a DNA TEST) that I wasn't the biological father. That revelation sent me into a tailspin. I was angry, depressed, and lost.

You turned your pain and life experience into a hit novel, how was the process through all this for you?

Since choking the hell out of my daughter's mother wasn't an option, in 2005, I poured my pain into a debut novel that was loosely based on my life. That novel, Mama's Lies - Daddy's Pain, became a best-seller. I took the money I earned and opened a publishing company called, Hollygrove Publishing (named after the neighborhood where I was raised). I ran the company while I was in corporate America. So, when I got laid off from my suit and tie job in 2009, I landed on my feet and never looked back.

I've been a full-time writer ever since.

THE BIRTH OF A NOVEL

Writers take life experiences and bring them to life through storytelling. Smith's best-seller "Mama's Lies, Daddy's Pain" is a perfect example of when life takes a turn, why not write about it? Brian is a jack of all trades given he's also an Adjunct Professor and former Army man. But, luckily for us readers, this story was brought to life.

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page 20 S U M M E R T I M E W R I T I N G !

BRIAN'S WORKSHOPS/TEACHING FOR ALL!!

Want to learn how to be a writer? Learn how to develop your characters, their storylines, and worlds? Well, take it up with Brian W. Smith! Learn from the man who knows how to do it best. Brian, who's an Adjunct professor for Creative Writing, can help anyone willing to learn the ways of writingfrom forming the character dialogue to getting in front of a literary agent. He can put you on the path you need to be on with a little help and balance!.

How do you balance your everyday job as a college Adjunct Professor for Creative Writing and being a full-time author?

It's not hard balancing my life; we make time for the things we really want to do. The cool thing about being an Adjunct Professor (for those who don't know, "Adjunct" means parttime), is that I get to pick and choose which semesters I want to teach.

Did you ever think to go full-time?

Would that have made any difference for you and your work as an author/writer?

You don't get that kind of flexibility as a Full-time Professor. I make a lot of appearances at literary events during the spring and summer months.

Do you ever think to give up one and fully pursue the other? How do you balance both passions?

Being an Adjunct gives me the flexibility to carry out my author duties. I've been an Adjunct Professor for ten years, and I can't see myself giving it up anytime soon because it's rewarding in several ways.

How have your teachings helped beyond the classroom setting?

First and foremost, it gives me a chance to give back to the community. We're blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. I love teaching the craft of writing to aspiring authors.

Have any of your students made it big after your teachings and workshops? How did it make you feel to know that your hard work with them made them successful?

I've had five students go on to land major book deals. There is nothing more gratifying than when my former students return to my classroom to show off their new novels. Secondly, I realized early on that teaching Creative Writing made me a better writer. My novels got better (in my opinion) after 2012.

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WWW.RAHWAYGIRLZPUBLISHING.COM

"NEEDLESS TO SAY, THOUSANDS OF MORE COPIES OF THIS BOOK WERE SOLD." -Brian W. Smith Signed, Sealed, and Delivered to worldwide Shelves.

You never know, as a writer, when your books will become a household name. Any of your books can catch the attention of just one person and your life can change forever. Your talent can reach new heights. That's exactly what happened when Brian's standalone novel "Nina's Got A Secret" hit the shelves and became a best-seller.

Most may know the hit series "The Sleepy Carter Mystery" Series, but this silent sweeper really brought the heat in the literary world.

Out of all your novels-"The Sleepy Carter Mysteries" series, Nina's Got a Secret, Deadbeat, If These Trees Could Talk and more, which one do you personally think has seen the most success and why?

Ironically, although the Sleepy Carter Mystery series is what's grabbed Hollywood's attention, those novels do not sell as well as my standalone novels. In terms of sales, I'd say that Nina's Got a Secret has sold the most copies. I first published that book in 2008 under my own publishing company and sold close to 8,000 copies. The book landed on the Dallas Morning News bestsellers list and in OMagazine on the "What to Read" list. That caught the attention of a Literary Agent. In 2011, I signed with that agent and within three months, she had multiple offers from publishers. I sold the rights of the book to Strebor/Simon and Schuster. They repackaged the book (re-edited it, changed the cover, etc.), and re-released it. The rerelease debuted on the Amazon, Target, Dallas Morning News, Walmart, and Black Expressions best-sellers list. Needless to say, thousands of more copies of that book were sold.

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HITTIN THE BIG SCREENS! BRIAN'S JOURNEY TO SCREEN WRITING Many writers/authors dream of their works hitting the big screen! Becoming a screenwriter behind your own novels isn't an easy task-just ask Brian! He made that dream a reality when writing the screenplay for his novel " Quagmire", putting his name in new areas of talent and success. With the right motivation and juice of a "battery" as quoted by Smith, your written dreams can come alive in a whole new way.

What films and or tv shows have you screen written for? How was the experience?

It was always my plan to turn my novels into movies. The problem was, that I didn't know how to write a screenplay. In 2018, my literary brotha, Booker T. Mattison (who is an author, filmmaker, and College Professor of filmmaking at the University of Georgia) put the battery in my back. LOL. He kept telling me, "B, you can write a novel in your sleep and that's harder than writing a screenplay. Trust me, you can do this." I've appeared on stage next to every big-time black author in the business; you name the person and my name has been on a flyer right next to theirs.

How did the support from others get this project up off the ground?

I name-dropped Booker T. Mattison because, during my nearly 20-year career, there have been VERY FEW authors who have gone out of their way to hype me up and encourage me to take a leap. That brotha's encouragement not only led to me learning the craft of writing screenplays, but that decision enabled me to spot another business opportunity. One day, after finishing writing the screenplay for my novel, Quagmire, I realized two things: 1. I'm sure most authors feel their stories are better than most of the crap on tv; and 2. Most authors struggle to learn the craft of writing a novel, so they don't have the time and/or desire to learn the craft of writing a screenplay. Ding, ding, ding...there's the business opportunity.

How did you start your screenwriting company? How can your company help writers and authors get their work on the big screen?

The first thing I learned in my MBA program is that the key to running a successful business is to identify a need in the market that is not being met and fill that need at an affordable rate. So, in December 2020, I opened a new company called, The Script Repository. The company specializes in adapting author's novels into screenplays for an affordable fee. We guarantee a 90-day turnaround and offer payment plans to make the process affordable. We also provide our clients with the Treatment and/or Pitch Bible (the items needed to pitch a screenplay to producers), so that they can immediately start shopping their script to Hollywood. For anyone interested, go to www.scriptrepository.com.

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THE WORLD IS A BOOK AND THOSE WHO DO NOT TRAVEL, READ ONLY ONE PAGE. WHAT'S NEXT FOR BRIAN W. SMITH? A writer's work is never done and Brian is just getting started! Through a long and fulfilled career, Smith has released novel after novel, best-seller after best-seller, and now with Hollywood eyeing his talent and him venturing more into screenwriting and TV, his work is bound to continue to excite readers and audiences worldwide.

What's next for you? What can writers look forward to for the rest of this year and into the next?

I am in the process of writing my first Sitcom and I've started writing the screenplay for my 2020 best-selling novel, "Paper Bag". As for my company, The Script Repository, my goal for 2022 is to double the number of screenplays written last year. As of this interview, we are on pace to do that.

What advice would you give to new and unknown writers and creators who see you as the ideal example for written/literary success? Did you ever receive advice when you first started writing as well?

If I had to offer any advice to aspiring and/or young authors, it would be: PRAY: so that God will hear your desires and put you in contact with people and places you need to be to grow professionally. STUDY THE CRAFT: so that you'll be able to write mechanicallysound books that people want to read. Authors should read at least 6 novels a year. The more you read, the better you speak, and the better you speak, the better you write...it's all relative. SELL THE BOOK: Customers buy products from people they like.

Therefore, you have to ditch the "shy" routine, find some personality, get your butt out there and sell the damn book.

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Brian W. Smith WRITER

Brian W. Smith is an award-winning, bestselling author of thirty-three novels.

He is also an entrepreneur, Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing, and screenwriter.

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Brian W. Smith's novels can be found on Amazon. Some titles can be found at Barnes and Nobles. If you'd like an autographed copy of his novels, visit his author's website: www.authorbrianwsmith.com. If you're interested in having your novel adapted to a screenplay, visit his company website: www.scriptrepository.com

ISSUE # 4

RGP MUSE

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All Photos Belong to Tarel Naim Austin

TAREL NAIM AUSTIN: A MAN ON A PATH TO GREATNESS When it comes to writing children's books as Naim Austin has, a special kind of magic appears. From working with children with special needs to creating a story that they can see themselves in, that magic is transformed into Naim's debut novel "The Special Kid". Along with his second novel "Never Grow Up" Austin is making his up to the top in the literary world.

Who is Tarel Naim Austin- the entrepreneur, author, writer, entertainer, and content creator? Please share with readers your background.

I'm a man from very humble beginnings. I was born, raised, and still live in Newark, NJ. I’m the only person from my immediate family to graduate college. My family was living in the projects when I was born. I’m a middle child and an Aries. Aries is the forgotten about sign, and nobody cares for the middle child. Everybody adores the first born and the youngest, so the middle child is the odd ball out.

Did being the middle child put you on the path to where you are now?

I always root for the underdog because I’ve always felt like the underdog. I like to call myself the coolest geek because I was never the most popular, but I was a trendsetter. I was always inspiring to others. I was looked at as unique in a cool way. I’m not cool enough for the cool table, but I’m TOO cool for the geek table. Once again, I’m right in the middle and so, it paves the path for me to put my family and city in a better position than we’re in currently.

"The Special Kid" is just the beginning!

"I'm a gogetter, a welldriven, drugfree, positive person that wants a piece of this great “AmericanDream".

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

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Written In The Stars!

Some kids know what they want to be when they grow up. They form a craft or a talent at a young age and begin to grow that craft into something lifechanging. For Naim, being a writer was practically written in the stars for him from a young age-ready to make an impact.

How did you know writing was your calling? You've written two bestselling children's books, and have ventured into movies, poetry, and short stories!

It was a God-given gift, and I knew at a young age that I was a superb writer. My imagination has always been one of one. I was fascinated with words and story-telling. While most wanted to play Monopoly or Uno, I was the kid that wanted to play Scrabble. I used to LOVE those mad-lib books!

In school, I used to steal stacks of line paper to take home. I didn’t even know what I wanted to write on it. I just knew I wanted the fresh sheets of paper because I knew there was a world ready to be created on it.

How has writing become a part of you, to the supporters, and fans of your work?

My way of the world is with writing. Even in my younger days, I would write poems and raps to girls that I liked. I would personalize them, so a rap that I sent to Laquana, I couldn’t send it to Ty-quana. Then I stopped because I realized that the dudes they ended up falling for were dudes that definitely weren’t writing them poems. If they could write at all, but that’s a topic for another interview.

An Adventure For All! Inspiration comes in all forms and in various ways. When writing "The Special Kid", Austin's inspiration came from the children's book "The Lion and The Mouse". "The Special Kid," tells the tale of Shakir, an autistic boy who is being picked on by the school’s bully, Pound. The story then takes a turn as Shakir becomes the school’s hero with a lesson for kids to learn.

Best selling children's novel "The Special Kid" has touched hearts around the world-how did this special story come to be?

Well, It’s not best-selling yet! I’m still broke, trying to get there! But thanks for speaking that into existence for me. So I’ve worked as a public school educator since 2010. Since I love reading, I sometimes find myself reading the books in the school library and the books laying around the classrooms. One day at work, I read a children’s book called “The Lion and The Mouse”. I loved the story and the message in it. After reading it, I said to myself that I want to write a version of that story but in a Blackity Black way. I wanted to write a hip-hop, “around the way”, Newark version of it. Something more relatable to people that look and grew up like me.

What can children with special needs take away when reading your book?

Especially to those who may be bullied for who they are?

I know that a lot of times they’re ostracized and looked down on as “lesser” by their peers and society as a whole. So I wanted to write a story showing that they can be a hero and that they matter. I’ve been bullied before myself. I know what it’s like to be the underdog. That’s who I wrote the book for. That’s who I do what I do for. The underdogs.

How did your students react to "The Special Kid"? How do you think your book encourages children and even adults to be who they are?

Some dropped their jaw because it came as a total surprise. The books were published and released during the pandemic while school buildings were shut down. By the time school buildings were back open, the books had already been out a year and a half. Who expects their teacher to just randomly pop up with their OWN book? It's not something you’re accustomed to seeing where I’m from.

A teacher having his own book is talk within itself, how did you feel about showing it where it's probably uncommon?

None of the teachers in any of my schools had their own book. Nobody in my family or any families I know had their own book. I remember an author visiting my school when I was a kid, but she looked like Sue Johanson, not Mary J. There are authors in the hood, you’re an anomaly if you are one. But my students liked the book. They laughed and loved the message. Some wanted a copy to take home. I gave some out for free randomly. I wish I could have given them all a free one.

"The Special Kid" is a model of representation especially by having two black boys on the cover-what is the message you want it to represent? How do you gain inspiration from your young students and put it towards the content that you create?

I don’t think teaching has made me a better writer per say, but it does spark tons of ideas and inspirations. For instance, believe it or not, one of the most challenging parts of writing a book or story is what to name the characters.

Character names are one of the most important things in movies or a book.

Names have to follow a person through the whole journey, all through the series, all through the season. Readers can relate to names. Names can create spin-offs, quotes, or jokes. It's going to be on memorabilia. So names are very important. I have most definitely used some of my students' names for characters when I couldn’t think of the right name. Also, the kids are always hip to the newest slang and sayings. So sometimes I’ll incorporate the newest slang words and quotes in the book, so it is more relatable to the kids. Right now “bussing, bussing” is the new slang word for the food is good, so I definitely used that in my upcoming book.

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Who expects their teacher to just randomly pop up with their OWN book? It's not something you’re accustomed to seeing where I’m from.

-TAREL NAIM AUSTIN

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ISAIAH MIKAELLI Behold a hip-hop, new school edition of the legendary fable "The Lion and The Mouse". Shakir, a timid and non-confrontational autistic student shows the bully of his school that at any given time, anyone can be the lion and anyone can be the mouse. This book also includes an ebonics glossary, an activity quiz sheet, as well as a coloring section. It’s a hilarious read with great messages that any age can enjoy.-Naim Austin

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

ACHIEVE AND DREAM!

"Never Grow Up" Summer 2020 is definitely a time that we'll remember.

Corona hit the streets and everyone has to prepare for life to change. "Never Grow Up" takes a twist on the pandemic where all you want to do is experience life as a kid, be filled with positive messages, witty hip-hop and pop culture references, and praise upon places and personalities from the town of Newark, NJ. When Naim wrote this book, he wanted to express how kids always wish to be an adult-at least until life takes a tumble and comes at you fast.

What is the inspiration and message behind your 2020 spring/summer coronavirus pandemic-inspired novel "Never Grow Up"?

Well, I was inspired to write this book by real-life coming at me fast! Paying rent and only having $177 to my name until I get paid again in two weeks is what made me come with up this book idea. Students of mine that want to be grown so fast and bad sparked the idea as well. They’ll tell you I can’t wait till I’m an adult so I can do this, go here, drink that, get this tat, don’t have to do homework, etc. That’s all fine and dandy.

We all wished for that when we were thirteen. But guess what? At thirteen, I ate dinner for free. I didn’t have to pay for my sneakers. The first of the month was just a Bone Thugs N Harmony song to me, not the rent due date. So I say that to say, these kids and teens only want the fun and relaxation part of adulthood. “Never Grow Up” is to show them that all that fun and relaxation comes with responsibilities, bad backs, and less naps.

What made you focus particularly on that year? Does the novel correlate to events that occurred in your life during the rise of the pandemic?

I thought it would be dope to make the setting in real-time during the coronavirus pandemic because it’s very rare to see a fictional book based on the actual time that the book is released. Not only that, but 20 years from now it could be a teachable moment for a 16-year-old to teach his or her kids what the pandemic was like first-hand as they pass the book down to their kids.

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TWITTER USERS

Based on the real-time setting of spring and summer 2020, in the middle of the battle of coronavirus, comes Never Grow Up. Never Grow Up is a BLACK fantasy fictional tale of an 8-year-old boy and his 16-year-old sister, who are in an unbeatable battle with their strict parents over the freedom and rights they “believe” they should have. A trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey, which they are not allowed to attend is the icing on the cake for them to ultimately say they no longer want to be kids. They wish for adulthood, and when their wish is granted they bit off more than they could chew. That’s if they can afford anything to chew on. In this super-fun, hip-hop thriller, Zajee and Nadi trade places with their parents, and get a harsh reality of what it’s like to be a Black man and Black woman raising a family in America in the wackiest, most outlandish way. This book really has NO chill!-Naim Austin

page 31 THIS ISSUE'S FEATURE

TAREL NAIM AUSTIN Tarel Naim Austin has accomplished many things in his career from teaching to children's novels. Supporters and readers alike can look forward to new projects and hopefully a new book series is in the works! Only time will tell..or instead, Tarel will!

Where do you see your writing and career going in a few years?

In the next 10 years, I should have a ton of more books. But by then I would hope to have moved on to writing for a major movie or TV company. I would love to be a writer or producer for Nickelodeon or HBO. Nickelodeon helped raise me and I feel that the kids of today need to get a feel of all the dope programming that we ’80s and ’90s babies grew up on with Nickelodeon.

How do you plan to evolve more in your craft beyond what you've already done?

After all that you've done, what can you say you brought to the entertainment industry?

I’ll evolve by continuing to sharpen my skills by writing, writing, and more writing. Inactivity can cause a little rust. So you have to keep working on your craft. Also, one of my mottos is “This ain’t been done yet. So do it!”

I think I was just born for the camera and the spotlight. For instance, when I was in college while most were scared and hesitant to present their papers in front of the class. I was eager to! I’d volunteer to go first. Let me set it off, have the class going crazy and let everybody presenting after me look average.

You aspire to venture into TV and Radio, how have you gotten started on these goals?

Well, I like to consider myself an entertainer. I can’t just call myself a writer because I once had a short but great interviewing career, where I was interviewing people just like you.

I'm a content creator and media personality as well.

"I’D SAY I’M JUST A BIG BUNDLE OF TALENT."TAREL NAIM AUSTIN

page 32 Coming Soon Late 2022!

A New Book By Tarel Naim Austin TAREL SHARES WITH READERS WHAT'S NEW IN 2022!

Any new projects coming soon for late 2022?

My new book The “Lil Duffle Bag Boy” is dropping later in 2022...

Stay ready!

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Tarel Naim Austin

AUTHOR, WRITER, AND ENTREPRENEUR

Tarel Naim Austin is an author, writer, and entrepreneur. He writes movies, novels, poems, and short stories.

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Amazon: "The Special Kid" and "Never Grow Up" Instagram: @Naimthydream Facebook: Naim Austin

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I_SOLANGE A

MAN

MANY I_Solange. The man who knows the deep-rooted art of words. A man who spits a verse or recites a line of passion with his poetry and music.

Tommy Neal known as I_Solange is making the world his personal stage. From knowing at a young age that writing poetry was meant for him to sending out life-changing messages through his music, I_Solange is just getting started.

Who exactly is I_Solange?-poet, music artist, entrepreneur, lyricist, content creator, and performer?

I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New YorkBrownsville to be exact. The son of a published newspaper writer, I have extensive knowledge about the art of writing and the usage of words in general. As a Taurus, life has everything to do with devotion and passion. Each endeavor I'm on requires the use of words and art in a way.

How did you know poetry was your calling? As you discovered that you had the gift of spoken word, what did you do to advance in your craft?

I knew poetry was that "thing" for me around 10-11 years old. I would often wow my parent's company with little freestyles at their gatherings in my childhood home. I never stopped writing after the attention I garnered, and with age and passion comes commitment and a deeper vocabulary.

Issue # 4

OF

WORDS

All Photos Belong To I_Solange

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RAHWAY GIRLZ PUBLISHING

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THE ART OF SPOKEN WORD It takes a lot of courage to get in front of an audience and share your craft. But, because you believe in yourself, no matter where you perform, your message is out there for all to absorb.

You've shared your spoken word with thousands, where have you performed thus far? How have you done poetry tours, if so, how was the experience?

What do you personally think of your artistry? Your words, emotions, and thoughts touch souls and bring people to a place of vision but how do you think you can evolve in your craft?

I think my artistry is like a top-tier rollercoaster ride.

You expect the excitement and thrill you KNOW the Last year I went on a six-city tour sharing my art and ride can produce. But when it's you sitting front row, passion, which I thoroughly enjoyed the whole time. My the thrill hits different. As for continuing my growth I favorite cities to perform were Ohio, Savannah and honestly feel I need to stay attuned, open to Atlanta, GA, New Jersey, and Maryland. The best part about touring is every piece you perform feels new because competition, and always believe in my pen. it is new to those different sets of ears.

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MESSAGE

Messages are everywhere, especially in the flow of music. There is a certain kind of power behind the music, and I_Solange has it. He describes his lyrics as being written from the heart. When he uses his pen, he wants to make a connection.

What are the stories/messages behind some of your poems such as "S.E.X )Sensual Energy Exchanges)", and "Car Sex"?

My pieces "Car Sex" "S.E.X" and "Good Guy Chronicle Part 1" are crowd favorites and for good reason. The clearest message behind my work is literally a sense of contrary belief; not everything is how it's presented. Priding myself on not being "Ordinary' S.E.X" was the easiest to write about given the fact people treat it as just sex while you're literally exchanging energy. So, I felt that needed to be touched on. Besides, who doesn't love to be loved?

Why the name "Car Sex"? Was it from personal experience?

Car Sex is one of my favorite works. As a car fanatic, I always wanted to challenge myself and break down all the parts of something I love and relate it to real relationships. It makes the work all the more genuine when you write from the head and heart.

What about your song "Good Guy Chronicles"? What's the story there?

"Good Guy" is self-explanatory. I know goddesses had their share of heartbreaks and I know we men tend to have to pick up pieces of hearts we didn't break. I wanted to show another side of 'The Typical Man' and touch on how we good men are still capable of loving while being loved the right way.

Is there a message that you follow daily when drawing inspiration for music and poetry?

My favorite message to follow is 'Normalize Fallin In Love With The Progress And Not The Result'. In my case, that means the words/art is what I must love. The results are the performances that are ONLY possible because of my love for progress.

INTERVIEW

I_Solange is cementing his greatness in the way he knows bestsong and poetry!

Poets tend to go against the grain. Wanting to cement thoughts into your minds with their words. When I_Solange shares his poetry, he wants to go against what people think poetry should be like. Be you in your craft. Be special. Be unique.

"When you challenge oneself, You don't have to think or work too hard, because you're only chasing YOU."-I_Solange Do you plan to expand into authorship by writing a poetry novel? If so, please share with readers any details on the upcoming release!

A Poetry/Mantra mini book is definitely in the works.

People need to know and understand there are people who see, feel, and LIVE the same trials and tribulations as they are living. The excited artist in me says Middle of 2022 I'm shooting for a release, but the perfectionist in me says Fall 2022.

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All Photos Belong To I_Solange

What content do you plan to release this year? More poetry, more music, perhaps expanding your brand into other creative areas? Please share with readers what's coming up next for you!

As I stated before, in the Fall, I'm looking to come out with a pocket-sized Mantra Booklet with affirmations and a few poetry pieces.

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I_Solange POET

I_Solange is a poet, writer, and music artist. He has performed in various cities and has released several singles. A poetry/mantra minibook is expected to be released soon.

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow I_Solange Facebook: @ TwinOfDestiny Instagram: @ i_solanged_ya_bitch, @I_solangedmusic

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YVETTE G. "TINYS_CREATION S" SANTANA

When you walk into a room as an artist and poet, you let your craft speak for itself. Let the flow of rhythm and story-telling bring your audiences together. For Yvette "Tinys_Creations" Santana, she lets her poetry and artistry speak for themselves, so that way, people know who she is "at all times".

Who is Yvette Santana aka Tinys_Creations_-the poet, artist, author, ambassador, community curator, entrepreneur/CEO? Please share with readers your background and where your stage name originated from.

Yvette G Santana is a young Afro-Latina driven to aspire change within her community. When touching the stage, I refer to myself as Yvette Santana. Some people may ask why I keep my stage name/real name the same. Well, it’s because my mother once told me “When you enter a room, ensure every single person knows who you are and what you are here to do; that is how you will make them remember you.” I want every single person to know who I am at all times, whether in my personal life or my poetry career. I, Yvette Santana, strive to expose the inner workings of the most controversial topics known to our world. Eight times out of ten society dictates the way we speak, feel or learn; my art allows me the freedom to challenge that.

"You have the courage to begin again."

– @tinys_creations_

Tinys_Creations

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INTERVIEW

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All Photos Belong To Yvette Santana

"HEALING POWERS" GROW WITHIN Rahway Girlz Publishing

Mental Illness is one of the deepest and hardest topics anyone can discuss. You never know what people are suffering through, but Yvette has made it her mission to bring mental illness to the forefront and show that it's okay to talk about it in safe, open spaces. In her novel "Healing Powers", she discusses how mental health creates a place of darkness within one's self, but you aren't alone. You aren't alone in your fight to escape that darkness and find your inner light again.

What is the message that transcends through your other best seller and selfpublished novel "Healing Powers"?

Through the novel “ Healing Powers”, I attempted to expose the rawness of my own mental illness. I did this so that others would know they are not alone. I wanted people to have a person, a book, a friend, or a mind similar to theirs during their times of darkness. Healing Powers was set to have others understand that throughout their journey of darkness, light is obtainable.

What does healing mean to you?

Healing is a loaded word that may look different for every individual. Ultimately, for me, healing is not only surviving but knowing you deserve to breathe in this world.

page 42 FEATURES

MENTAL HEALTH IS WEALTH RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

When Yvette first wrote "I'm Not Crazy", she had in mind to bring people together through self-healing and community. She wanted anyone who read her book to know that they are not alone. While their fight is heavy, hopefully, this novel can be a comfort.

Mental health is most times overlooked in Black/POC spaces and communities but you along with your best-selling anthology " I'm Not Crazy: An Anthology Centering Mental Health" have brought unity within, along with other writers, activists, and poets. What is the message that this novel sends to readers who struggle with mental health and can't seem to break away from the hold and chain that it has?

The "I AM NOT CRAZY ANTHOLOGY" was set to display the inner workings of a person's mind behind closed doors. A lot of times, specifically within the Black/POC community, there tends to be a set president for what we should feel or how we should go about what we feel.

This leads to self-isolation. Why? Well, if every time you expressed just 10% of your emotions and a negative response was given, it would condition you to then withhold any future expressive communication.

CONTINUED TO NEXT PAGE

RIGHTS BELONG TO YVETTE G. SANTANA

features BEST SELLER

page 43 RAHWAY GIRLZ PUBLISHING

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How does this novel heal and bring peace?

The "I AM NOT CRAZY ANTHOLOGY" was a statement. It was to regain our power. The anthology was created to break generational mindsets of “survival”.

Our ancestors had no place or room to feel, so in turn, it was how we were taught. However, I wanted to rewrite that narrative. I want to create a world in which our people feel safe with their tears or with their smiles.

No matter what your mind is designed to feel or think, we should feel safe expressing it. Personally, this novel has shown me that I was never alone and that within itself changed my life forever.

What has your movement personally taught you?

This movement as a whole has taught me that growth is continuous, it has shown me that being your true self is acceptable , it has shown me that there is always beauty within chaos , we just have to adjust the perspective in which we see.

How did this movement grow to be what it is today?

About three and a half years ago, while writing in my journal, I wondered what the world would think if they ever saw my mind behind the scenes. I wondered if they would think I was crazy or would they empathize with an individual such as myself. Then, I realized someone somewhere in this world would feel exactly how I did. I came to a conclusion, no, I am not crazy and neither is anybody who would relate to all thoughts which lie behind my mind. The 'I am not crazy' movement project was built on the idea that we, as a community should embrace all levels of mental health. Despite what the world makes us think, we are not crazy. Although we may be misunderstood, we should not be labeled as “crazy” just to suit the inadequate levels of education that others may lack. Art is freedom and with it, artists choose to speak their own truth.

What is the movement's mission and how does poetry form within it?

This mindset was carried into action, alongside the amazing Cheyenne Tyler Jacobs who is the founder of the SheWillSpeak Series, partnered with the "I AM NOT CRAZY ANTHOLOGY".

This anthology launched back in April 2021 reaching the highest Amazon charts for Medical Ethnopsychology, Best Sellers, New Releases, Poetry Anthologies, and more for its first month of retail. This anthology was not only sold in various countries but has featured work illustrated and written by individuals from Asia, the United Kingdom as well as all over the United States.

Above Photo Credit Belongs to Yvette Santana

I want to create a world in which our people feel safe with their tears or with their smiles.

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Tinys_Creations POET

Yvette Santana is a poet, writer, and advocate. She has performed in various cities and has created the powerful movement "I'm Not Crazy" and written the best-seller "I'm Not Crazy" Anthology.

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow Yvette Santana Facebook: @ Yvette Santana Instagram: @tinys_creations_ Website: @www.shewillspeakseries.com

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RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

Special Interview

"BREAK 4 Love" www.reallygreatsite.com

KEITH THOMPSON

SPOTLIGHT

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INTERVIEW WITH KEITH THOMPSON RGP Muse Magazine had the honor of talking with writer, producer, and singer Keith Thompson. Keith Thompson, whose been in the music scene since his debut back in 1985, has not let go of his classic music touch. He went from being in the hit group Raze to going solo, and is still producing and releasing new music to date!

RGP Muse Magazine spoke with Keith at the 90's Dance Concert at NJPAC. RGP Muse: Mr. Thompson thank you so much for speaking with us!

KT: Thank you, thank you. Good to be here.

RGP Muse: Since you just performed, do you prefer when your audience is sitting or standing? When standing, aren't they more engaging?

KT: Well it's dance music so they want to jump around.

It's not Anita Baker or Sade. There's no sitting and staring when House music is on.

RGP Muse: Taking us back to the beginning of your career, how did you become a part of your group Raze?

KT: I met Vaughn Mason, he had "Bounce, Rock, Skate", and I had met him at a Mass Swing Hall. I was mastering one of my own records and met him there.

He said he was doing House Music and I was just hearing about House at the time. I was into regular music and reggae at the time but wanted to get into that field so we went to a studio and collaborated. The first release was "Caught U Cheatin" (1988 release) and then he called me up another time to do "Break 4 Love".

It's a controversial story in the sense that he didn't give me credit for co-writing it but that's one of those ageold stories in music where people get ripped off.

RGP Muse: Did your upbringing influence you into music, given that you had Jamaican parents?

RGP Muse Magazine

KT: My parents played music through the house and that influenced me through Soul music like Sam Cook and Odis Redding. My mother played the drums in the church so that influenced me into playing the drums and other instruments.

page 48 TREASURES FROM THE

Man of Soulful House Music "LEARN YOUR CRAFT. BE UNIQUE. WHEN YOU'RE YOUNG, YOU'RE MORE DRIVEN TO DO ANYTHING YOU WANT." RGP Muse: Did your upbringing also influence you when you went to college? Did you play or sing while at the New York Institute of Technology?

KT: I wanted to be a newscaster actually, I have a degree in Communications and I also wanted to be a radio announcer, took radio-based classes and got into DJing.

RGP Muse: Did you ever perform your own personal lyrics while doing classes?

KT: I probably did but I was focused on getting into producing. Once I realized I was putting out records that were crap, it inspired me to do better.

I later met Vaughn, that hit song was everywhere, we had a falling out, and I went back to being on my own.

RGP Muse: What projects did you do on your own?

KT: I had the reggae house music under my own label Flat Records. I went back to that and never turned back. I put out my next single "Love Is Not A Toy", which made some noise in the industry back then.

RGP Muse: Did you ever have a moment where you thought "Wow my music is taking off", it's getting the recognition that you deserve?

KT: When you're young and in the music industry, you're always hoping your music will take off.

RGP Muse: What was your family and friend's reaction to you becoming a hit maker?

KT: They kept hearing Raze and I had to tell them that, that was me. I was really driven back then.

RGP Muse: What is some recent music that you've released?

KT: "Do You" is my latest. When I wrote it, I had a vision of my daughter. She was around seven at the time but I had a vision of her being in high school. doubting herself and the phrase "Do You" is for her to be herself.

RGP Muse: Do you have any advice for new artists that are just starting out in the industry?

KT: Hone your craft. Know what you want to do because going on stage is scary, and if you're not prepared, your mind will make you feel insecure. Learn your craft, your instrument, your singing. Rock your uniqueness. That gives you value.

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Minister Sharon R. Phillips Writing Without Fear Photo Credit Belongs to Sharon Phillips Rahway Girlz Publishing

Writing is a medium of human communication that represents language and emotion through the inscription or recording of signs and magic of the tongue. For Minister Sharon, she spreads the word of God through her writing, and through him, people are able to form deeper connections. Words are powerful and she uses them to the best of her ability, especially when working with Women and the Youth.

Who is Author Minister Sharon Phillipsauthor, minister, motivational speaker, follower of Christ, and survivor?

I am Minister Sharon R. Phillips, the author of "Hello My Name Is Abuse- I Lived It, I Endured It, I Survived It." I was born and raised in Memphis, Tn. I currently reside in Texas.

How long have you been in the ministry?

I've been in the Ministry for 23 years, and a self-published author for eight months. I conduct Women's Conferences to encourage my Queens that ABUSE IS NOT THE WAY OF LIVING. I'm thankful to GOD for choosing me as his vessel to tell of his GOODNESS. How did you know ministry was your calling?

I've always been active in the church, speaking on Women's Day Services, and Youth Day Services, but in 1997 I started feeling a difference in my speaking, and God began to move in me to branch outside of the four walls of the building. The Holy Spirit was telling me that others needed to hear me, and I obeyed God and stepped out.

The call of God and the wisdom one gains from that calling can not only change your life, but someone else's as well. Minister Sharon has used her calling to help others on the path of greatness and healing. Helping guide them to a path of survival and great self-love.

How has your ministry guidance helped others in their path to greatness and spiritual healing?

It has given them the knowledge to know that they can achieve better. To have a personal relationship with God, and be obedient to his word, and he will direct their path. I express forgiveness so that they can heal spiritually, physically, and emotionally.

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the creativity issue Interview Rahway Girlz Publishing

IF I CAN HELP SOMEONE ALONG THE WAY, THEN MY LIVING WON'T BE IN VAIN. I ALWAYS TELL GOD THAT I WANT TO BE USED

BY HIM. I have received inbox and text messages from women, thanking me for sharing my story and that it has helped them in some way. My response to them is "WE GIVE GOD ALL THE PRAISE."

We all carry our own scars. Scars that can travel into adulthood and sometimes it's hard to heal. But, it makes us survivors.

As a survivor of abuse, Minster Sharon has brought communities together from a place of healing and comfort. A comfort to others that shows they are not alone.

They don't have to face life alone and with support, they can overcome and conquer.

What is the message/story behind your best-selling novel "Hello, My Name Is Abuse - I Lived It, I Endured It, I Survived It!"?

The message behind my story is to encourage my Queens who have survived abuse. Some wonder "NOW WHAT?" I am here to tell them to "HOLD YOUR HEAD UP, AND LIVE." Jeremiah 29:11, my favorite scripture: For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope, and a future.

How can this novel's message give a way of healing and inspiration to other survivors of abuse?

We will still have stumbling blocks along the way, but we keep pressing forward, and GOD is right there with us.

How do you think your life's work has overall impacted others for the better?

I pray daily that I have touched someone, and they took control of their situation to learn their worth and moved forward. My prayer is: IF I CAN HELP SOMEONE ALONG THE WAY, THEN MY LIVING WON'T BE IN VAIN. I ALWAYS TELL GOD THAT I WANT TO BE USED BY HIM. I have received inbox and text messages from women, thanking me for sharing my story and that it has helped them in some way. My response to them is "WE GIVE GOD ALL THE PRAISE." Above All Photo Credit belongs to Minister Sharon Phillips.

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GOD'S VESSEL INSPIRES MANY! Sharon shares with readers how she has incorporated the word of God into her services towards Women and helping raise their voices.

Minister Sharon has touched many lives with her life's work of guidance and motivational speaking. As a survivor of abuse as a child, which then continued into her adult life, Minister Sharon has never given up hope and when she found the answers to her pain in God's will, she knew that she would commit her life to His service.

Minister Phillips speaks to young women from a wide cross-section of the community on a range of issues including abuse and how to survive it, and to how they can continue to live their lives. She inspires many, yet, we wonder who inspires her?

You've inspired and encouraged others through your work but who has inspired you? Do you have anyone whom you admire that has helped you in your journey of writing and spiritual healing?

The person that inspired me through my writing and spiritual healing was Reverend Rita M. Henderson, CEO of Five Fold Publishing. Not only is she my publisher, but she also helped me in so many ways. She gave me that push, made sure I stayed focused on my writing, and she keeps encouraging me.

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Minister SharonPhillips AUTHOR, MINISTER, AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

Sharon Phillips is a motivational speaker, minister, advocate, and author. She has her best-selling novel "Hello, My Name Is Abuse - I Lived It, I Endured It, I Survived It!"

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow Minister Sharon Phillips Facebook: @Author Minister Sharon Phillips Instagram: @sharon322phillips Amazon: @Sharon R Phillips

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

INTERVIEW

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THEARTISTANUBIS

PUTTING HIS THOUGHTS INTO POETIC RHYTHM Anubis is in a poetic realm of his own. Step into his world from his poetic beginnings to now!

Photo Credit belongs to TheArtistAnubis

TheArtistAnubis has established a poetic empire from the start-up of his successful business and safe space for amateur poets in The Harlem Bomb Shelter to cultivating a community that comes together to celebrate the black arts. Anubis is a creative force that continues to grow in an artistic approach, mentor others who want to succeed in the poetic and entrepreneurship scenes, and inspire anyone that hears his story and spoken word.

Who is The Artist Anubis-poet, author, entrepreneur, creator, ambassador, cultural and community curator?

I was born Luther D. Isler in the Bronx, New York, but was blessed to move to Harlem by the age of 5. Not only was I enveloped and raised in the arts and culture, but I groomed in youth performance companies including Harlem School of the Arts, Maie Brooks, Pan-Caribbean Dance Company, and, most influentially, IMPACT Repertory Theatre, where I later became the Director of Admissions.

IMPACT was not only an arts company but was a youth activism organization where I was mentored by Voza Rivers, a theater producer and cultural impresario, and Jamal Joseph Sr., a film professor, and Black Panther Party member. I learned that if I put my thought in rhyme and rhythm, people would listen to what I had to say.

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RGP Muse Magazine

The Journey to the Name "TheArtistAnubis" Anubis discusses how his powerful stage name came to be.

How did your stage name TheArtistAnubis come to be?

For years I prioritized curating creative spaces for others rather than developing my own artistry, sitting under the radiating waves of masterful wordsmiths. Everything changed in 2019 when I emotionally recovered from a divorce and physically recovered from a slightly less painful surgery after donating one of my kidneys to the eldest of our two daughters. I realized I had a lifetime of personal stories to tell and needed to give myself permission to take my art seriously in order to best serve those stories in hopes to serve those who hear them. This version of me and my artistry would be like nothing I’ve done prior so I chose to drop my former stage names. In my first studio session after this new beginning, I reused a line I had playfully authored ten years earlier that included the phrase “I be Anubis.”

What about the name "Anubis" felt right to you and others that heard it?

I realized I had a lifetime of personal stories to tell and needed to give myself permission to take my art seriously in order to best serve those stories in hopes to serve those who hear them.

My brother, ten years my junior, shouted “That’s it!” And I knew it felt right when he heard it. Anubis is known as the God of death in Egyptian mythology and is often portrayed as a taker of life but in fact, he is a guide through the afterlife and a guardian over the judgment process; this is not much unlike how I’ve lived my life, guiding others on their journeys and build protective spaces… with a penchant for highlighting the darkness in the world. I almost immediately created a new Instagram account dedicated to my art and chose the account name “AnubisTheArtist'' with “The Artist” simply being a clarifier... unfortunately, the login name was taken, so I settled for @TheArtistAnubis and as my popularity grew, many assumed that was my full stage name and I decided it would be. I wish there was a more concise way to tell my backstory but these experiences provided the elements that influenced the young man who would aspire to impact the world through words, arts, and advocacy. Performing on a stage was the most exhilarating feeling and performing words that could change lives gave meaning to my performances.

WWW.RAHWAYGIRLZPUBLISHING.COM

THE HARLEM BOMB SHELTER IS BORN! The mission of HBS is to create a safe space and a brave space for spoken word artists and artists of various levels and forms to feel encouraged to express themselves and use their craft to develop themselves and connect with others in a way that not only benefits themselves but also their local communities and the world around them.

page 55 When artists come together, it's an atmosphere of joy, togetherness, and a deep love for creativity and individual uniqueness. Anubis has established that atmosphere in his Spoken Word/Open Mic Events and his program/business/organization. The Harlem Bomb Shelter-a place where spoken word poets and artists can come together and share their lives and experiences through poetic expression.

Outside of your own poetry, you have established your own safe haven for poets and artists to come and share their spoken word and creativity-How did The Harlem Bomb Shelter: Spoken Word Open Mic & Showcase come to be?

As a young adult, I became the president of my Harlem-based fraternal organization, the Order of the Feather, where I hosted occasional open mics as a way for the community to have a safe space to express themselves like I had growing up. It was a loose, laid back, and inconsistent offering primarily attended by members of the related organizations, though we began to draw local poets including NYC Youth Poet Laureate, Zora Howard. At the conclusion of my term, Zora invited me to an open mic she was hosting in Harlem. The event was a gathering of amazingly talented young poets serious about their craft, many of which came from Urban Word, a teen poetry development program in downtown Manhattan that I had participated in for a while. I asked when the next one would be and she said that this was a one-time event. It was then, in Fall 2011, that I decided to create an ongoing public poetry program in Harlem, as an alternative to the popular Nuyorican Poetry Cafe, and the plethora of venues in other parts of the city. While sitting in my video editing suite in the basement of the New Heritage Theatre office, ruminating on this endeavor, a mentor of mine called me and asked me where I was, to which I jokingly replied, “I’m in the bomb shelter.” BOOM! That would be the open mic.

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More on the Harlem Bomb Shelter Beginnings All Photo Credit belongs to TheArtistAnubis

"I realized I had a lifetime of personal stories to tell and needed to give myself permission to take my art seriously in order to best serve those stories in hopes to serve those who hear them."

How did your community of friends bring your open mic showcases together?

With the help of my closest friends and fellow entrepreneurs, Emila Ottoo and Craig Sidberry, a childhood friend and playwright I reconnected with at Zora’s event, Jaylene Clark Owens, and culturally engaged visual artist I met by chance, Robyn “Lady Be” Baxter, developed the proposal for the poetry cafe and Voza River, executive producer of New Heritage Theatre, signed on to produce my project. My goal for the open mic was to create a completely uncensored first amendment space. Voza insisted that half of it be a showcase of vetted artists which will appeal to potential supporters and on March 22, 2012 “The Bomb Shelter: Harlem’s Spoken Word Speakeasy” was launched. In May, Imani “Lyrical Faith” Wallace joined the team of founders, booking our first showcase feature and the platform was renamed “The Bomb Shelter: Harlem’s Spoken Word Open Mic & Showcase” … because having to explain to our peers what a “speakeasy” is was not working.

What is the mission behind H.B.S and how do you help communities in artistic spaces, especially for poets just starting out?

At the approach of our seven year anniversary, we changed the name again to “ Harlem Bomb Shelter” and recognized “Open Mic & Showcase” as the flagship program of the many programs we’ve come to create and curate, including writing workshops, a hip hop group and album, a dance group and dance workshops, a short-lived self-defense workshop, outdoor community concerts, and summer youth employment programs. The mission of H.B.S is to create a safe space and a brave space for spoken word artists and artists of various levels and forms to feel encouraged to express themselves and use their craft to develop themselves and connect with others in a way that not only benefits themselves but also their local communities and the world around them.

Anubis: Burning Powerful Visions

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Interview by Wynter Aiken Poetry isn't just for one's self. It's about spreading the word of one's inner thoughts, experiences, and soul. In Anubis' novel " My People Burn and Other Visions", he tells his life experiences through the heavy power of poetry. Painting pictures of what he's dealt with as a man from divorce to love. It's a deep novel filled with triumphs and tribulations that leaves you with a sense of realization that life is only what you make it.

What is your novel "MY PEOPLE BURN and Other Visions" about?

“My People Burn and Other Visions” is a poetry anthology of poems that speak to who I am as an artist, a man, a Black man, a father, a divorcee, and a hopeless romantic finding myself through trials and triumphs. The original idea of this anthology was honestly an attempt to accomplish something before feeling depressed on my 35th birthday.

My birthday was coming and the first book I wrote, “#DadLife '' which was an anthology of 40 plus pieces inspired by raising my two daughters, did not get picked up by any publishing company so I felt I needed a win. As I began organizing my favorite and most celebrated performance pieces, the book began to take shape into something bigger than I imagined. I curated and edited old poems and wrote a few new poems for three months before handing a draft to a few friends for feedback. Then I considered quitting the project.

RGP MUSE MAGAZINE

How was your experience in writing this novel? What about your friends and family's reaction to it?

I had grown so much as a writer since I authored some of the poems and was painfully aware of how much better I wanted to be. My father and mentors encouraged me to complete the book; not because it was good, but because I could always make another book, and the energy I put out will draw future fans and potential partners more than the book itself. So for three days, I worked without sleep to ensure the final version of the book would be ready for printing and distribution before my birthday. Self Publishing my book was the best decision I ever made. The sheer act of publishing the book created a snowball of opportunities I never would’ve imagined including getting booked for two featured performances in Hawaii; one of which I recorded and released as a live poetry album. The title of my book “My People Burn and Other Visions'' comes from my poem “My People Burn” and the first group of poems in the book that speaks to the hardship and history of Black people; “and Other Visions” was added to demonstrate that the book illustrates other aspects of life from my point of view.

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"For the book, I created a version of my logo with a fire design so I incorporated that throughout this line of merch."

You've ventured into entrepreneurship by creating your own apparel line "Visions" derived from your anthology novel-how was the creating process for this line?

The “I Heart A Kidney Warrior'' hoodies and T-shirts have a much different story. My eldest of two daughters was born with chronic kidney disease. In 2019, I was blessed to be her kidney donor. Since 2018, I have worked with the National Kidney Foundation fundraisers. I started selling apparel where all the proceeds go to NKF to support the work they do and, in 2021, one of the designs I sold included images of my daughter and me, before and after surgeries, celebrating both of us as “Kidney Warriors'' along with all the kidney donors and kidney recipients like us. It so happens that last Fall, I came in 3rd place in a popular online poetry slam competition by doing three poems about my experience with kidney disease and donation. I will be performing one of the pieces at the NKF Gala this March. But I will probably wear a suit instead of one of my hoodies.

RAHWAY GIRLZ PUBLISHING

19

What are the backstories to some of the phrases placed on the apparel such as "I Heart A Kidney Warrior", "We Be Gods", and "MPB-Apples".

At the height of the pandemic and protest crossover event, I became popular for performing a piece called “My People Burn.” I learned it was a good idea for artists to have merchandise so that was the first design I made; apparel that quoted the chorus from “My People Burn.” Everything came full circle when designing a new line of apparel inspired by poems in the book and I named it my “Visions Collection” distinguishing it from my original “My People Burn” collection.

“MPB” is just short for “My People Burn.” I took some of my favorite quotes from the book including “We Be Gods,” a powerful line in the empowerment poem “Beloved,” “Massage My Beard” from the erotic poem “A Nubian Oil,” and the apple pie ingredients from the fan-favorite poem “Apples.” For the book, I created a version of my logo with a fire design so I incorporated that throughout this line of merch.

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TheArtistAnubis We All Have Creativity Within Us The greatest advice I would give aspiring poets and artists is “do it!” Thinking about writing a poem? Do it! Interested in a workshop? Do it!

Invited to read at an open mic? Do it! Don’t think you’re good enough? You’re probably not but do it anyway because the more you do it, the better you will be. I almost gave up on my book because I thought it wasn’t good enough, but my mentors told me to do it anyway, then do a better one next time because, either way, people and opportunities will be drawn to the energy I’m putting out. And it’s true. The person who booked my two gigs in Hawaii hadn’t even read my book but was drawn to give me opportunities to sell it, all because I chose to “do it!”

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ANUBIS SHARES HIS EXPERIENCES OF PERFORMING SPOKEN WORD LIVE

A STELLAR PERFORMANCE Performing your art in front of audiences isn't an

Since becoming more serious in your performances,

easy feat-nerves escalate and doubt can set in but

have the venues changed as well?

for Anubis, it's second nature. He gets into his element and gives his audiences a written song from deep within. He shares with readers where he's performed thus far.

Since pursuing my own poetry more seriously, I’ve performed at many local open mics, lounges, and showcase events around New York City including the

You've performed many of your poetry pieces in

Nuyorican Poetry Cafe, Harlem Week, and the New

various spaces. What places have you performed

York City Marathon. After publishing my book, I got

live thus far?

to perform a half-hour set in Hawaii for a live

When I was sixteen, I wrote a poetry play and fifteen years later I got to direct, produce, and perform in it alongside seven amazing poets and actors at an Off-Broadway theater. That may be the “biggest” stage I’ve gotten to perform my own work so far.

performance album I released last Fall. However, my upcoming performance for the National Kidney Foundation Gala will be the most meaningful performance of my life so far, and I expect many opportunities to follow.

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In many ways, I’m still finding and developing my brand as TheArtistAnubis. I know what I do well and what makes me unique but there’s so much room for how I can present and explore those things. I do a lot of pieces about painful elements of the Black experience and many about finding empowerment through that, but I aspire to be equally as powerful at illustrating the human experience. My poems about donating a kidney to my oldest daughter are a step in that direction. From that, I aim to be a spoken word spokesman, of sorts, for living kidney donation. I have many life experiences that translate into stories we all relate to that I’ll be telling all over the world with my unique wordplay and afterlife angle, incorporated into theater and music.

Established beyond limit

How do you see your brand as TheArtistAnubis expanding beyond what you've already established?

page 62 Life, Death, and Being Reborn are referenced heavily in your poems, why? What is it about the idea of life and death that resonates so deeply for you?

I have a line, “But isn’t death the most faithful friend of life; motivating the greatest time of our life within our lifetime?” This sums up how I view death and half of how I apply it to my poetry. The inevitability of death (of people, relationships, and beliefs) is what makes life so precious. It’s why we build monuments and legacies. It’s why we give our loved ones flowers while they can still smell them. The other half of my inspiration comes from a quote by Mik Everett, “If a writer falls in love with you, you can never die.” We as writers have the power to immortalize people and moments in a way that could last forever. I think

LIFE, DEATH, AND REBORN

of the thousands of rich cultural traditions dedicated to celebrating life after death and I’m inspired by the light that comes from that darkness. 100 years after I die, someone’s life will be touched by something written in this interview, and I think about things like that all the time.

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TheArtistAnubis

AUTHOR, POET/SPOKEN WORD ARTIST, AND CEO

Anubis is a poet, spoken word artist, author, clothing designer, community cultivator, and founder of the Harlem Bomb Shelter.

His merch and novel "My People Burn and Other Visions" are available for purchase

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow TheArtistAnubis Facebook: @The Harlem Bomb Shelter Instagram: @theartistanubis

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INTERVIEW

Rahway Girlz Publishing

Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC

RGP Muse Magazine

ANGELA THOMAS SMITH THE QUEEN OF COLLABORATION

Angela Thomas Smith of Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC uses her platform to bring people of all artistry together, to collaborate, network, and get their businesses out to the public. She uses her resources and talent for writing and creating to bring others to new creative heights and give them the opportunity to be seen and heard.

She is The Queen of Collaborations and she is making a difference in the literary industry.

Who is Angela Thomas Smith aka Queen of Collaborations? -writer, author, poet, CEO, mentor, podcast and radio host, founder, and public speaker? Please share with readers your background.

The Queen of Collaborations is whom I've become affectionately known as across these social media platforms and streets. Who is Angela? A Child of the HIGHEST GOD. Angela is the youngest of four (two brothers & one sister) born on April 1st (yes April Fool’s Day) to the Late Glenn Lee Thomas Jr & Late Catherine Martin Thomas in Anderson County Memorial Hospital (now AnMed). I have experienced a lot from childhood to now, from suicide attempts to domestic violence. I decided to be the change she wanted to see in this world. We often say what we would like to see changed but do nothing about it. I saw a need in my brown community, I would not sit by and watch it go unanswered.

4th Issue| 2022

"The Queen of Collaborations is whom I've become affectionately known as across these social media platforms and streets."

How did you know writing and creating was your initial calling?

You have followed the path of Christ and have inspired millions with your platform, how did you know this was the path chosen for you?

I never dreamed or thought I would be any of the things I am doing today, life experiences allowed me the opportunity. Life was not easy, but I was introduced to God at an early age. Only by his grace and mercy, I am yet alive. In the middle of battling depression, God reminded me he had a plan for my life, and I decided to share his goodness. He saved my life and I want to help others so they don't have to go through the same things I did.

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All Photo Credit belongs to Angela Thomas Smith

ASPIRING AUTHORS WORLDWIDE Angela explains how Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC came to be!

Owning a magazine is just one platform that can be a blessing to others in the way of exposure and collaboration. Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC is a platform formed to give writers, authors, and many more the chance to have a voice, especially in the black and brown community. Angela, with this platform, gives people a deeper perspective on what topics affect the black and brown community and if chosen, you can make all the difference.

How did you start your company and magazine Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC? Faith and trusting the word that had been put in me for years finally allowed me to wake up and chase my dreams. When you are your own BOSS- if you do not produce, then you do not eat. I started my company and magazine because I saw a need in my community that needed to be addressed. I refused to settle and be a part of the problem. I want to leave this place better than it found me.

RGP Muse

How has this magazine brought a spotlight to not only your creative works but to others as well?

When I started this journey all I wanted to do was let people know they had a purpose and that they could do anything they put their mind to. The God I serve cannot be put in a box. Be the BEST version of you that you can be, you only get one chance at this. Do not allow people to put you in a place you do not want to be! The mantle of my life has allowed me to walk many paths that can be an outlet and resource for others. All I hope and pray for is that those that cross my path will do the same and PAY IT FORWARD! Why are you called "Queen of Collaborations"? You make it your mission to collaborate and make people soar on your platforms, how has collaborating and consulting upped your platform and business?

LOL, not sure who started calling me that, but the name grew on me, and everyone started calling me “The Queen of Collaborations”.

I love to network, partner, and collaborate with others. I do not have to be in the spotlight. I try to provide an opportunity to Empower individuals to push forward and sometimes we just need a reminder.

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What is the mission of your movement #L3MOVEMENT and the AAALAC (African American Author Literacy Awareness Campaign)- the African American Author Literacy Awareness Campaign?

The #l3movement (L.E.A.R.N./L.O.V.E./L.E.A.D.) is to bring healing to our cities around the world through learning, loving, and leading the way THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD. As people we must understand as this world evolves, we must evolve, be willing to learn, and be taught. Love is one of the greatest commandments, love draws, love is action, and covers a multitude of sins. To all my Leaders, it is our job to train, develop, and grow leaders to LEAD the way for others to come after them.

How do you think you have evolved in your craft in the last few years? How can you continue to grow and expand in your craft as a writer, author, and CEO? I can honestly say I have evolved from paying people to publish for me to being able to publish my own books (49). I am always learning, loving, and leading the way as humbly as I know how. I am always learning because this world is forever evolving.

Connections are powerful. You never know who you'll meet that can change your life and career for the better. Angela uses her belief in others' potential and her own belief in her craft.

Please share and elaborate with readers on the inspiration/message behind some of your best sellers: I wanted to give others an opportunity to share their story. Not everyone has a whole book in them, but they have a message to share that needs to be heard. Most of the individuals that join my projects are 1st-time authors. I truly believe in networking and collaborating.

11. "I Am Owning My Truth" This book was inspired because I wanted people to see that we all have been through something that we had to own up to so we can heal and walk in purpose.

2. "121 Days of Prayer" Book 1 birth from 3 words L.E.A.R.N./L.O.V.E./L.E.A.D. and psalm 121 after being in 5 am prayer 121 days (about four months). Giving 138 women from around the world the opportunity to share affirmations inside this book (our youngest co-author 96yrs MOTHER FORBES).

3. Poetry and Short story Anthology "Learn, Love and Lead: Whole Movement" Soul Full metamorphosis was the book that started the #L3movement. This book was delayed until December 2021, and I did not understand it until October 11th. I lost my first cousin, big brother & best friend. This loss ripped my soul and God yet got the glory. Gone but never forgotten, I was able to honor my cousin's LEGACY. 4. "Words Speak", your anthology story. This three-book POETRY series gave me the opportunity to work with some amazing poets from around the world.

Above -All Photo Credit belongs to Angela Thomas Smith

“YOU DIDN’T GET DROPPED OUT OF THE SKY. YOU WERE PURPOSELY PLACED HERE

BY THE CREATOR. Dreams do come true, so never stop dreaming.”

WWW.RAHWAYGIRLZPUBLISHING.COM

giving to Others Angela gives advice to those who have the potential to tell their truth!

What advice can you share with readers about living in their truth and following their goals and dreams to be a writer and creator?

Dreams do come true, so never stop dreaming. If you fail do not stay down, pick yourself up and dust yourself off.

Many have failed before you, but we did not stay down.

We kept getting up, that is how we made it where we are today! There is no perfect way to do anything. Life is an experience, an experience we have never had before, so we are always LEARNING. Show LOVE, what you give out always comes back. Choose to be a LEADER and allow the creator to lead and direct you. It is okay to get HELP. It does not make you WEAK (wake up, let the EGO go, LOVE more and move in POWER, allow God to be God!

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When you believe in yourself, your goals and dreams can become a reality. Angela's goals and dreams are not only prospering for herself, but it's giving other creatives a chance to succeed and glow in their ambitions to be better.

What message do you carry with you daily as you continue to soar in different creative areas, continue to build your brand, and share with the others who are trying to make it in this industry?

My message to everyone “YOU DIDN’T GET DROPPED OUT OF THE SKY. YOU WERE PURPOSELY PLACED HERE BY THE CREATOR.” Find out what your purpose is and walk in it. If you need a LIFE COACH, the Queen of Collaborations is a certified L.I.F.E. coach here to push you in your purpose. Find your NICHE and be whom GOD CALLED YOU TO BE. Always be willing to learn, move in love, and be a leader. You will never fail, even if you fall do not stay down.

"Life is an experience, an experience we have never had before, so we are always LEARNING."

page 68 RGP Muse Magazine

NEXT UP FOR:

ANGELA! What upcoming projects are lined up for you in the coming months? Please share with readers any details on upcoming new projects!

WOW, the Queen has her hand in a lot.

(1) Ladies of Legacy Show airing on BHC media streaming to ROKU, AMAZON TV, APPLE TV, YouTube & Firestick mid-February (FOR 60 DAYS) (2) 121 days of 5 am prayer (started February 1st join us on zoom or clubhouse) and book project. #l3movement (BOOK DROPS SEPTEMBER 1ST) (3) My birthday celebration, book launch & fashion, I will be honoring eleven Queens on April 2nd, 12 pm-4 pm at Landmark Hotel & resort in Myrtle Beach SC. Reserve your spot (only 75 available) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/broken-to-be-mendedmolded-in-his-image-tickets-256577158187 (4) O.N.E. dynasty (blog talk radio) host of a show titled “Walking in Purpose w/Angela” airs every four weeks on Wednesday at 9:30 pm (est) please call in (@ 516-4539133) Press 1 to join the conversation brought to you by DEM BOYZ @ looking glass entertainment.

(5)Current 2021-2022 Global Face of Africa fashion for P.E.A.C.E. AMBASSADOR. I AM HONORED TO WEAR THAT CROWN AND SASH! (6) I have my hands in a lot but you can keep up with me on social media. PLEASE FOLLOW ME ON LINKTREE (https://linktr.ee/QueenofCollaborations) and come connect with me in a city near you in near future for a LIVE EVENT.

"In the middle of battling depression, God reminded me he had a plan for my life, and I decided to share his goodness. He saved my life and I want to help others so they don't have to go through the same things I did."

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Angela Thomas Smith

AUTHOR, CEO, PODCAST HOST, MAGAZINE EDITOR

Angela is the Queen of Collaborations, author, writer, podcast host, magazine editor, and founder of Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC and #L3MOVEMENT (Learn, Love, Lead) and the AAALAC (African American Author Literacy Awareness Campaign

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow Angela Thomas Smith Facebook: @Angela Thomas Smith and Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC Instagram: @aaalac

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K HYPH Setting his own Tone.

Living his own Stage.

This Bronx, New York Native is bringing his own smooth and sultry vibes to the hip hop/rap scene. K Hyph, who has been rapping since his young teens, has paved his own way into the music industry with a unique sound, deep lyrics, and allaround cool vibe.

Who is K Hyph, rapper and entrepreneur?

"I grew up in the Bronx, in the hood, and then moved to Maryland right after high school. I go by the stage name K Hyph.

What is the origin of your stage name?

K Hyph, the K stands for King and my first name is David. King and David are in the bible. K is just K and Hyph is the hyphenation symbol. Between K and Hyph is a blank space that represents what my future will hold.

All Photo Credit belongs to K Hyph

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Just Getting Started in the Rap Game K HYPH COMES FROM THE PIT OF RAP, BEING FROM NEW YORK. BUT, JUST BECAUSE OTHERS ARE IN THE GAME, YOU CAN' T COUNT K HYPH OUT! HE SHARES WITH READERS HIS START IN RAPPING.

"EVERYBODY AND THEIR MOTHER RAPS" How did you get into rapping? What made you want to recite that very first verse?

"I just had that influence in me, growing up in New York. I started rapping because I was bored. I didn't even think of myself as trying to pursue rap. I love music and rap so much, that I just thought let me start doing this.

Who are your top favorite artists?

My top would be Nas, Andre 3000, Rick Ross, and Jay-Z to name a few. These are my favorites.

And influential to my music style are Nas and some elements of Drake.

Do you remember your first performance?

What was your mindset?

In the first year, I was in Maryland-had no friends at the time. So, I was bored and I just wrote my first verse. I visualized music and surroundings, and I take something that someone said and turn it into a verse. An artistic ability.

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THAT FIRST PERFORMANCE K Hyph describes that very first performance in front of a crowd.

"When you first hit the stage, everything becomes real."

Can you describe to readers your very first performance? What was the atmosphere like for you?

There's a spot called West End Lounge, I get there, waiting to perform, and as I'm waiting on the bar side, the atmosphere is different than I expected.

But, my people came; my closest friend, sister, and aunt came.

How did your friends and family initially react to your rapping?

Well, if I'm not good, they're not supporting me.

They will tell me if it's bad. When I was writing out in Maryland, my mother saw that I had talent and told me to pursue it. I didn't receive discouragement. There's nobody in my family that's against me rapping. I always have love and support.

What is it about your favorite artists such as Nas that inspires your own artistry, pertaining to rap flow, music, etc.?

In my early material, I really did sound similar to Nas, I was initially following the blueprint and eventually, I found my own way.

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www.rahwaygirlzpublishing.com

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K HYPH DON'T DISMISS ME K Hyph shares more of his journey into the rap!

You released one of your first mixtape albums "Green Walt", back in 2018, what was the thought process behind releasing this project?

It was a combination of songs that I'd written over the year, and I just wanted to get some music out. I didn't really have a set plan behind it. At that moment, I was still in the early stages of pursuing rap and while I was rapping all of 2017, I didn't have any big projects. I put out this tape just to see what it would produce. It did well.

How was the supporter's response?

It was really good! I didn't want to bring it up to people at first that I rap, I think they would automatically dismiss it before it even happens.

Do you ever feel like you are in a tight box, being from New York with a big rap scene?

I feel stagnant and boxed in sometimes because the pool of rap is big, not just in New York, but in Jersey as well. It's competitive. But, even outside in the drill scene, New York has this "too cool" demeanor and when I perform, I push myself to stand out and be unique.

“...MY STYLE IS AN INTELLECTUAL ELEMENT. YOU GOTTA BE ORIGINAL."

GHETTO GOSPEL

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SMOOVE BABII SUPREME POETRY

A GOSPEL FOR ALL S m o o v e

B a b i i

Smoove Babii is exactly what his name implies-smoove to the ears of those that have the pleasure to hear his Ghetto Gospel, the powerhouse of his spoken word. When you hear the Ghetto Gospel, you know you'll be taken to a place of rawness and healing.

RGP Muse magazine

Who is Alphonso Kenny aka Smoove Babii?poet, spoken word writer, author, mentor, entrepreneur? Please share with readers your background.

Well, using Alphonso Kenny is wild because almost nobody calls me that so we are going to stick to Smoove for short haha. But who is Smoove Babii? Let’s see, Smoove Babii is just a young black man from the Bronx NY (183rd Walton) to exact, who has been through somethings and decided to use the rawest art form to heal throughout it.

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Becoming a poet doesn't happen overnight. All it takes is one feeling or experience to awaken that gift of spoken word. Smoove Babii details how poetry eventually became his calling.

How did you know poetry was your calling? As you discovered that you had the gift of spoken word, what did you do to advance in your craft? Please share your beginnings of becoming a poet.

Well to be completely honest, I never knew poetry was my calling, not in the slightest bit. I turned to poetry in 2010 after my grandmother Annie Johnson passed away. Poetry was a way to vent because I had lost my best friend and in the beginning, I was writing to just write. I wasn’t trying to be an artist or an author or performer, none of that was on my list. What made me take poetry seriously was when I met a girl (it’s always a girl to make you realize things haha) but yeah, I met a girl named Vika (shout out to you V) who did poetry. Me and her used to just go back and forth with pieces. When I tell you, she used to walk on me (my way of saying outdoing me) man listen, I’m a competitor, I don’t like someone getting one up on me so, I took that feeling and started to really tap into my emotions. I wrote a piece entitled" What To Do" (probably still my favorite piece of all time even though I wrote this in 2014) but yeah, I wrote this piece and when I tell you that there was nothing V could do with that, man I was like yeah, I arrived! This is my calling!

"Poetry was a way to vent because I had lost my best friend and in the beginning, I was writing to just write."

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Ghetto Gospel SMOOVE BABII SHARES WHERE HE'S PERFOMRED AND HOW HE GOT HIS STAGE NAME.

All Photo Credit belongs Smoove Babii

You've shared your spoken word with thousands, where have you performed thus far? Have you done poetry tours, if so, how was the experience?

I have performed all over New York City. I have also performed in Ohio, Baltimore, Florida, and Detroit. I have definitely been a part of a poetry tour and my experience was amazing!

I actually got to close out for the Unapologetically Me tour.

What is the inspiration and mission behind your stage name and company "Ghetto Gospel" LLC? What does the calling of Ghetto Gospel mean to you?

Well, my stage name comes from a group my friends and I had growing up. We were called the 2Smoove Boyz. Lol yeah I know, don’t ask lol but we did everything together. Dance, hang out, chill, etc and my name was always P. Smoove Babii. So, as I got into poetry, I dropped the P, one because it sounds better and two, more importantly, it was an oxymoron. When people hear or see “Smoove Babii,” they think here comes a person who is coming to spit relaxing calm poetry, and then BOOM! All you hear is passion and rawness with a lot of energy.

And that’s what Ghetto Gospel is! Ghetto Gospel is inspired by 2pac, the greatest rapper ever point blank period. See Pac was a Conscience but ignorant artist. He can relay messages from our inner cities that help us connect but also teach without preaching.

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POETIC HIDDEN GEMS

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ART IS IN THE WORDS You are a part of the poetry group "Street Prophets", what is the mission and inspiration to others behind this five-member group of poets and creators? What have you accomplished thus far as a part of the group?

The mission and inspiration behind our group has been, that this is BIGGER THAN POETRY. Meaning we do everything with a purpose. We are out here using our trauma to give back to the communities that have given us lessons with blessings. What we have accomplished as a group is one, we become family. Like family family. We are there to pick each other up with everything life has installed for us. I have leaned on my team through probably the darkest time in my life. They really carried me. To be honest, I’m only the brains, the other four, Shay, Jay Cherie, Solange, and Symbolic Knight are the heart and soul of this movement right here.

What is the mission and story behind starting your "Hidden Lines" Podcast? What are some of the topics that you cover?

So, the mission behind Our podcast, Kennie Sings, who happens to be one of the greatest pens out there! Omg, my twin is something so amazing like she’s a different problem but yes, Kennie Sings and I started the "Hidden Lines" Podcast for artists like ourselves. We have so many lyrics to unpack that at a live show it’s hard for people to catch everything we are saying. We came up with the idea- let’s start a podcast, have artists come on, perform, and we will find the hidden gems or lines in their art. This usually leads to all types of discussions that includes any and every topic. We also break down music from artists such as the late great DMX! We have also broken down movie scenes because believe it or not movies are art and some scenes are poetic as well.

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INTERVIEW

WHY POETRY IS OURS TO MOLD SMOOVE BABII EXPLAINS THE STORIES BEHIND SOME OF HIS INSPIRING POEMS

What is the story behind the words of your poems "Not Supposed To Be Here x Wanna be somebody", "Dear Unseen", "I Cry Too", "Rest In Pieces", "Crossroads", "I Was Written Into". (Please elaborate on each one-share the meaning/story/why you titled it)

“Dear Unseen”

This by far is probably my favorite question and the reason is nobody

Dear Unseen is a real personal poem to me. It got its title

ever asks, “What’s the meaning or why did you title this piece that.”

for a couple of reasons. Reason one, I wish I hadn’t seen

This is a dope question, so let’s break each one of these poems down without giving too much away. So….

“Not Supposed To Be Here X Wanna Be Somebody”

most of the things I had because they constantly replay in my mind. The other reason for its title is because I’m working on a Book Entitled "Monday’s Letter" where I pick a word and write a letter to that word. Now, the

This is actually two poems in one. When I perform I like to do this

meaning behind this piece was that I wish I had unseen

thing where I say, “I feel a remix coming on to me.” And basically,

the sight and sounds of learning about my youngest

that’s just my way of putting two poems out there in one

brother, Boi, death on 12/22/20. So yeah, I’m leaving that

performance. Now let’s take "Not Supposed To Be Here," this piece is

there.

entitled that because when I was born, I was a premature crack baby who was so small and so sick that I wasn’t supposed to live through the night. But here I am 32 years later. Also, it’s entitled that because I suffer from a learning disability. Can’t read nor spell but here I am on stage performing poetry. I have done some things and seen some things in my life where it could have been cut short. So yeah that’s the

“I Cry Too” "I Cry Too," is just a piece that I wrote one day when I woke up. I usually don’t write down my poetry unless I’m

meaning behind that. Now, as far as "Wanna Be Somebody," to be

strictly writing for a book but this particular morning I

honest this piece was unfinished when I performed it live in person. I

felt the need to write. Basically, I was just letting the

only had half of this poem ready and the other half was a freestyle.

world know that I cry too. Yes, I’ve been through a lot,

The story behind this piece was that I wanted to take something from

and yes I manage to put a smile on every day but I also

one of my favorite movies (Sister Act 2) and create a piece where- yes I

just want people to know I cry as well.

wanna be someone in life but look at all the different problems I have to solve on my way trying to do so.

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WHY POETRY IS OURS TO MOLD SMOOVE BABII EXPLAINS THE STORIES BEHIND SOME OF HIS INSPIRING POEMS “Rest In Pieces”

“I Was Written Into” Ahhhh, man. This piece right here man… this piece was a turning point in my career. First and foremost, I got to give a big shoutout and credit for the ideal of this poem to my twin and business partner Kennie Sings! I had hit a point where I didn’t want to do poetry anymore. I had just lost my brother and I wasn’t feeling poetry at all. It wasn’t enough to help fight my battles. I had retired to the point where I wrote my team a letter. (I’ll share that letter at the end) I remember talking to Sings about quitting but she wasn’t trying to allow me to give up. She said “if you going to lay down your pen in which I feel like you bugging then go out with a bang! Write yourself an exit piece!” So I came up with "Rest In Pieces," and as I was writing this piece, slowly but surely, I started to get that feeling of writing and expressing back! So I really owe it up to her because I was dead set on never writing again! My poetry is so therapeutic for me that’s why I put so much into it.

Ok so this piece right here was a writing prompt that I had gotten from someone (can’t remember who) but that’s how the title came along. This piece was also unfinished when I actually performed it live. I only had the piece done and freestyled the rest on stage live. Now, the point of view of this piece is actually from a female’s perspective. I wanted to highlight or introduce some things that most artists are afraid to even touch. Topics such as being touched and post Partum depression. This is one piece that I might have to go back and finish. I feel like this has so much potential to be one of the best pieces I could ever write.

How do you plan to evolve in your craft, take it to new horizons, more than you've already accomplished?

“Crossroads”

Well, first things first, is to become a better writer every "Crossroads," is definitely one of my favorite pieces. It

day. Working on my craft and becoming a student is the

embodies the true meaning of Ghetto Gospel and what it stands

best way. I also believe thinking outside the box to find

for. "Crossroads" is about everyday decisions that we have to

new ways to express poetry will help. Now, if you ask

make growing up in the inner cities and trying to figure out if

what new ways….. stay tuned in to find out exactly what

we should go left or right. Stay within the laws or break the laws

I mean.

despite the laws not being made for us. It also highlights my style of poetry. Do I continue in my fashion or do I fold for what poetry is “considered?”

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Smoove Plans What's next for Smoove Babii?

Smoove Babii shares what he has planned for the rest of the year!

Do you have any upcoming projects that you can share with readers? Please share what's coming up next for you and for the rest of the year!

Of course, I do! Please be on the lookout for the rest of 2022, I’m dropping the following books- Inner Peace, Girl On Your Locked Screen, and Monday’s Letter. ( First Book Ghetto Gospel is out now) Also, I’m dropping my second EP Ghetto Gospel Volume 2! (The first one is out on SoundCloud. It’s entitled Ghetto Gospel) I will be dropping poetry visuals and I’m also working on a jazz album! So yeah lol I’m outside Sincerely, Smoove Babii!

That’s S M Double OO V E B A B I I double Ii me not Y me Babii it’s Eazy! I'm godly!

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Smoove Babii

AUTHOR, SPOKEN WORD ARTIST, POET

Smoove Babii is a writer, poet, and spoken word enthusiast. He has written a successful novel called "Ghetto Gospel" an inspiration and ode to his stage name and presence

EXCLUSIVE

CONTACT Follow Smoove Babii Facebook: @Alphonso.Kenny Instagram: @Smoove Babii

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RGP Muse Magazine Editorial Board Editor In Chief

Wynter Aiken

Editorial Assistant

Hannah Abiona

Editorial Assistant

Rashonda Aiken

About Issue #4 This month's issue is all about hard work, achievement, and personal success. No matter what your creative background is, as long as you believe in your work and craft, nothing and no one can stand in your way.

All Photo Credit has been given to their respective owners.

Copyright 2022 @Rahway Girlz Publishing All rights pertaining to RGP Muse Magazine belongs to Rahway Girlz Publishing. Any form of plagiarism will result in legal action.