So FN Dope Magazine Issue 13

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Photographer: Teddy Labissiere of Caravan Film Crews Makeup: Shabana Buksh of Creative Beauty Boutique Wardrobe Stylist: Amanda Massi

FOUNDERS / Editors in Chief

W

hat’s good! Thank you for your interest in So FN Dope Magazine. We are a fairly new magazine based on the West Coast looking to make an impact in the entertainment industry by highlighting music, performance, and the entrepreneurial spirit of independent artists, all across the country.

Our staff constantly spends countless hours scouring for dope content to feature including, but not limited to, new music, music videos, artwork, interviews, comedy, models, live performances, photographers and bloggers. In other words, we are always looking for new content for our digital magazine as well as our website.

It is going to take dope independent artists like you to help build our brand, but it will also take magazines like us to give indie artists a platform to be heard. We would love to feature your music, videos, mix-tapes, photography, artwork, as well as set up interview arrangements for future issues of So FN Dope Magazine.

Let’s work together and leave our mark on the industry to show the world why we are So FN Dope!

DISCLAIMER: Here at So FN Dope Magazine, we have done our best to provide content that is up to date and correct. However, changes may have occurred since the content was submitted that may affect the accuracy of this issue for which So FN Dope Magazine holds no responsibility. The views and opinions of our contributors are not necessarily shared with So Fn Dope Magazine or its staff nor are we liable for their views and opinions or how they may be interpreted.

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: email: sofndopemagazine@gmail.com

Walter Michael Welch Jr. Corey Norwood Sr. Director of Marketing and Advertising Servon Moss Director of Arts and Entertainment Ashton Francois CONTRIBUTORS The David Banner Podcast Axum Smooth Transition Tiger Rogers Publishing Kulturally Appropriate Creative Beauty Boutique Hype-Radio.com JB & Benny Blue Review Curve Brows Caravan Film Crews Status Sparkling Wines Braidlux Addicted To Results J Davis Brand Shadow Promotions mweaton.com Tree Hugger S.T.A.B.L.E. COVER STORY Q PARKER FEATURED Q Parker Keesh Hawkz Thomas “Tiger” Rogers Donald Washington GUEST WRITERS Jia “Miss Ikonic” McMillan-Shipley Chayo Briggs Sue Giplaye COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Michael W. Eaton CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lourenso Ramautar John Acosta Terry Starr Michael W. Eaton

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MAGAZINE

INSIDESFND

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QUARANTINE CLASSICS Check out our take on some of the hottest HipHop and R&B albums released in 2020 thus far.

7 STEPS TO INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY DURING A PANDEMIC Here are some helpful tips on how to maintain your sanity and be productive while you shelter in place.

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DOPE QUOTES: Dive into some inspirational quotes both the past and present from some very influential people in entertainment.

HOW TO SAFELY WEAR PROTECTIVE HAIR STYLES: Check out this article for a few unique tips on styling your hair during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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KEESH HAWKZ This article is all about blowing trees and hot 16’s.

Check out our exclusive interview with rising HipHop artist Keesh Hawkz.

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THOMAS “TIGER” ROGERS Check out our interview with this incredible award-winning saxophonist Thomas “Tiger” Rogers as he talks about his latest release “Perspective.”

Q PARKER Read up on how R&B Veteran Q Parker is bridging the gap between Gospel and R&B music with new album entitled The Bridge Project. See how his vision is making an impact both in and outside the realm of music.

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WOMEN CAN IMPROVE ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: Leadership Opportunities for Women in Business: This article gives us an in depth look at why women in leadership positions are so vital to the modern day work environment.

ONE ON ONE with DONALD WASHINGTON: Former NFL player gives back to the youth through his organization Smooth Transition.

Check out our interview with Donald Washington.

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FNDOPE

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MAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE FOUNDERS

LETTER FROM THE FOUNDERS

ISSUE 13 & COVID 19

T

hirteen and nineteen are two numbers that will now undoubtably forever reign synonymous with the connotation of UNLUCKINESS. Well, that’s if you’re superstitious and believe in that type of thing! For us this issue represents Resilience, Drive, and Legacy. The world is slowly starting to reset and adjust to the parameters of what the government calls PHASE 1, while mentally, we have never taken it out of fifth gear and have been deadlocked on PHASE 13 all the while.

We rarely get the opportunity to interview people ourselves because we have a phenomenal team that holds it down in the field. However, the few times we have had the privilege to be hands on has been nothing short of amazing and this time would be no different.We are humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to interview and collaborate with some of the most talented and dedicated individuals in their respective fields.

This issue features an R&B veteran

who truly needs no introduction but has managed to reintroduce himself as Q Parker, the legacy builder, and not just Q of the award winning R&B Group 112. It also features Keesh Hawkz, an on the verge artist that is sure to supersede the moniker of one of the hottest “female rappers” out of Jersey and stake claim to just one of the hottest “rappers” out of Jersey period. It also features Thomas “Tiger” Rogers, a saxophonist and overall musical phenom that has plenty tricks up his sleeve and Donald Washington a former NFL player that is a true testimony that pressure really does make diamonds.

ISSUE # 13

Our goal has always been and will always be to give a platform to The Fly, The Original and The So FN Dope. We hope you enjoy reading issue 13 because we enjoyed putting it together. Special thanks to everyone that participated and contributed to making this issue So FN Dope.

If you’re not So FN Dope then what are you?

Warm Regards, Q PARKER

Walter M. Welch Jr. Co-Founder So FN Dope Magazine

Corey Norwood Sr. Co-Founder So FN Dope Magazine

Cover Photographer: Michael W. Eaton of Michael Eaton Photography www.mweaton.com

AVAILABLE ON WWW.SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Q Parker page

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HOT TOPIC

QUARANTINE CLASSICS Whether you are a hard core fan or just being introduced, you definitely won’t be dissapointed by these artists who just happened to drop classic albums just in the nick of time to help get us through these uncertain events.

JADAKISS

IGNATIUS One of our absolute favorite rappers.

Never heard a wack verse from this guy.

Jadakiss never lets us down. The production on this album was incredible.

You can tell that he was especially proud of this one. With records like “Hunting Season” and “Me”, it is apparent that he was obviously planning on leaving a mark and making a statement with this album. We must have listened to this album 20 + times while quarantined.

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JOYNER LUCAS

ADHD

ADHD was a cool album. Joyner is definitely a dope rapper and is definitely keeping the other dope rappers on their P’s and Q’s. We waited for this one for a long time and we must say that it did not disappoint. He even had a couple cool surprise guests on the album with Chris Tucker and Kevin Hart! That was definitely a good look.

ROYCE 5’9

THE ALLEGORY Such an incredibly deep album. From top to bottom, this album kept our attention from dope punch lines to the amazing beats. No one can say that Royce 5’9 has not perfected his craft.

Lyrically, he is superior to 90% of the rappers out there. We honestly think he is one of the most underrated and we certainly believe he deserves more credit. Definitely a project worth listening to.

HOT TOPIC DA BABY

BLAME IT ON BABY

Da Baby! Da Baby! Da Baby.!

Enough said! Straight heat. He is on a roll and is not showing any signs of slowing down! This album is single-handedly carrying us through the quarantine.

THE WEEKEND

AFTER HOURS

TWENTY/20 PYREX VISION

JEEZY

MEGAN THEE STALLION

This was a dope album. The Weekend is another one of those artists that rarely disappoints with his music. Another solid joint.

Classic Jeezy album. We have to say that we thoroughly enjoyed this one. Our only quarrel with this project was that it was too short. We were left wanting more, which I suppose is a good thing, but it also left us feeling a little incomplete. We are going to need a follow up album A.S.A.P.

All in all this was a nice project. Megan Thee Stallion is definitely leaving a lasting impression on the industry. We cannot wait to see how she sizes up against the other female heavyweights in about a year or so. Very solid project.

SUGA

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TIPS

7

steps to increasing productivity during a pandemic

I

n the thick of an epidemic, how does someone stay optimistic, positive, self-assured, and financially sound?

How can you confidently say, “Everything is going to be okay,” when you’re not only uncertain, but living in the raw reality that everything is not okay.

If the Coronavirus has merely taught you to wash your hands and keep a clean-living environment, then you’ve digested this pandemic completely wrong. This disease has crippled the market, laid off millions and induced inevitable “social-distancing” amid almost totally paralyzing the small business sector.

However, in every negative, there’s a positive. If you’re alive and well, it’s imperative that you utilize this time to be with your family, enjoy yourself and increase your creative and entrepreneurial mindset. Now is the time to do all the things you’ve been meaning to do but never got around to. Binge watching Netflix shows and eating yourself out of a house and a home is one option but certainly not the best. 2020 may be partially cancelled but don’t let that diminish your productivity.

Don’t let the serendipity of the world control your emotions, your efficiency or your ability to evolve in the face of chaos.

How can you maximize your time and in turn eventually maximize your profits?

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Article by Jia “Miss Ikonic” McMillan-Shipley

Set some goals.

Get your mind and body right.

First, you must be healthy mentally and physically. Use this time to start a rigid at home workout routine. Fun YouTube workouts from fitness gurus like Keaira LaShae and rigorous workouts from Instagram live Effect Fitness sessions, to name a few, will get your body right and as you’re pushing your body to the limit, you’re strengthening your mental capacity as well. Your mind and body need to be tested – there’s no better time than now. You could treat this unique yet unfortunate time like the Freshman 15, or you could walk out of this moment in life with your goal body – it’s up to you.

Take this time to learn how to meditate as well, gather your thoughts and learn how to reach a certain level of serenity internally. Meditation apps like Calm, Insight Timer and Aura can assist you along your journey. When your mind and body are in tune anything is possible.

Writing something down makes it real.

What are your goals? Just because life looks a bit bleak at the moment, that doesn’t mean that you stop setting goals and working towards them. Do you think the one-percenters of the world have stopped crushing their goals because society is currently in a bit of a frenzy? No. They are not only crushing their old goals but setting new ones. It’s still relatively early in the year, it’s time to write down your goals, create a vision board and hold yourself accountable. Most people are bored out of their minds right now and craving outside activities amid also experiencing some form of cash-flow inconvenience.

If this epidemic has negatively affected your finances, why is that? Do you have an emergency fund? Have you learned how to invest your money? Do you have only one source of income? If you only have one source of income, why is that? The average millionaire has seven streams of income thus having only one can always lead to disaster in times of economic strife. One of the goals on your list needs to be figuring out how to create additional and consistent revenue streams. In times of instability, it’s nice to have a plan, something to fall back on and something that’s concrete not wavering.

However, of course all your goals don’t

TIPS have to be completely financially based. You could finish that book you’ve been writing or spend more time with your children or begin to learn a new language. Set time restrained goals. For example, let’s say you want to add 5,000 words to your novel by May 15th, write that goal down and hold yourself accountable. Check that goal off only after it’s been completed. Remember, it’s hard to document how far you’ve come if you haven’t detailed where you’ve been.

Crush your goals and prioritize your time.

you’re not a fan of long reads, read interesting articles from apps like “Pocket” or subscribe to some blogs that interest you.

Find your passion.

What do you love to do? Why do you love to do it and are you able to do it right now? Are you able to work on perfecting that passion? Life during and post quarantine has gifted you time at home and time to reflect. What do you love to do so much that you don’t care how people would grade it? Is it painting, graphic design, blogging about dogs, make-up, fashion etc.? Whatever it is, keep doing it and if you don’t know what it is, keep searching for it. Never stop trying to find your purpose or passion. Great books like The Happiness of Pursuit by Chris Guillebeau, The Passion Test by Janet and Chris Attwood and The Renaissance Soul by Margaret Lobenstine are great reads to kick off the journey to finding your passion.

Don’t use this time to mope about everything you are not but instead utilize this time to acknowledge everything that you are and will be.

Learn something new.

Be a student, first and foremost. If you are constantly learning, there’s no way you can lose. The internet is more than a host of tabloids and frivolous dancing YouTube videos but indeed an enormous hub boasting with a superfluity of information. If you want to learn a new language, learn how to invest, learn how to cook, learn about project management etc. – it’s all at your fingertips, literally. Take some courses from online learning platforms like Udemy, Skillshare or Coursera. These courses are affordable, informative and taught by every day, ordinary people that happen to be specialists in different arenas. Don’t set limits on knowledge, seek it out.

Read more.

Reading will help fill time gaps.

For those who are not avid readers, you can become one. Step outside of your comfort zone and read a classic like Moby-Dick by Herman Melville or if you like urban fiction read The Cartel series

by Ashley & JaQuavis or if you’re interested in finance read MONEY Master the Game by Tony Robbins. However, if

Make a profit.

Money. Wouldn’t you like to make more money? Wouldn’t you like to make money in your sleep and make money from your passions? What’s stopping you? If you get your mind and body right, set some goals, find your passion, learn something new and read more; an increase in wealth is likely. It may not happen overnight, but it can and will happen if you stay consistent and audacious.

Increasing your mental strength makes you a keen predator in the art of business and finance. Setting goals creates a dedicated timeline and enhances self-accountability. Finding your passion can take time but the realization that there’s something in this world that truly makes you happy is not only essential but gratifying. Being a sponge to the world around you and constantly educating yourself can only increase your awareness and your intellect.

The greatest minds of the world are persistent learners and voracious readers. Don’t say that you don’t like to read, be honest and say that you haven’t yet found a genre or author you enjoy. Don’t say that you don’t understand money, be honest and say that you haven’t truly educated yourself on the topic. How does money work? Do you know? If not, don’t complain about your current financial situation but instead take action. Ignorance is a choice. To be financially superior, understanding the dance of finance is paramount to the desired increase in your net worth. Make your passions profitable, make your mind a lucrative entity and never stop trying to achieve the wealth you crave.

Repeat.

Start from the top and do it all over again. Americans are obsessed with productivity, with getting the job done, with maximizing their time and profits. This pandemic, although grossly unfortunate, has gifted the world extensive time at home, ample time to reflect and plenty of time to be productive. How you utilize this time is not only a reflection of your efficiency but a mirror image of how you perform in the midst of a crisis. Allowing negative thoughts and bad habits into your bed at night won’t make you a millionaire or an overnight philanthropist. However, accepting the reality while simultaneously finding ways to reap the hidden benefits will increase your resilience and the next time the world decides to turn itself upside down, you’ll be ready.

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ON THE VERGE

Photography: John Acosta

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ON THE VERGE

keesh hawkz

After hearing her spit for the first time, she definitely left us wanting to hear more. Everything about her style and cadence was just wavy and I bet she will out smoke all y’all!

Check out our exclusive interview with Purple Label recording artist Keesh Hawkz.

EAST ORANGE, NEW JERSEY

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ON THE VERGE

FND MAG: Keesh!!! What’s good? We are so excited about this interview.

Very glad to make this happen. How are you?

KEESH HAWKZ: What up! I’m good! Thank y’all for having me!

SFND MAG: Now do you prefer just Keesh or Keesh Hawkz?

KEESH HAWKZ: Either or, I’ll answer to both. [LAUGHS] SFND MAG: Tell us a little about yourself! Where you from and how long you been rapping?

KEESH HAWKZ: I’m from East Orange, New Jersey. Been rapping since I was 16.

SFND MAG: When we first heard you spit, we were like Yoooo! She is crazy dope! You are definitely a lyricist.

Loving your East coast swagger and demeanor. At what age did you first start taking your craft seriously?

KEESH HAWKZ: Awww Man! I really appreciate that. I most definitely LOVE the art of Hip Hop. I started taking my music seriously when I was 23.

SFND MAG: We listen to many of the verses you spit on your IG posts and we have been wondering, who are some of the artists that you are most influenced by? Your cadence on some of you verses is seemingly reminiscent of Pac but we would like to know your influences.

KEESH HAWKZ: Yooo!!! That’s Dope AF that you picked up on that! PAC is without a doubt my favorite Rapper of all time. He’s always spoke to me the most more than any other artist I’ve ever heard. I like to pay homage at times. I’m also influenced by Kendrick, J Cole, Lauryn Hill and many others.

SFND MAG: So, hip-hop seems like it has been headed in a much better di-

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rection in 2020 than where it was 4 or 5 years ago. What is your perspective on the current state of hip-hop and where do you fit in that equation. As an up and coming independent artist, what is Keesh Hawks bringing to the table?

KEESH HAWKZ: My perspective on Hip-Hop’s current state is Hopeful and full of excitement. It’s a lot of ladies getting to it. Doing their thing. I’m ready to be a part of that! I think I fit in perfectly or rather stand out because I (write) rap about reality and things that real people can relate to and put my own little spin on it. We need Love and Good Energy in the world. Understand that every single person has a story.

I’m telling mine with the hopes that I’m helping others too. That’s what I’m bringing.

SFND MAG: Let’s switch it up a little and talk about your music. You recently released Hummer Flow in 2019! The record is dope and definitely goes hard.

Tell us a little about this record and how it came into existence.

KEESH HAWKZ: Word! Thank you!

My Boy Mista Muthafuckin Splurge brought me in on that joint. It was produced by The Blurry Boys. Splurge had his verse and the hook down already. I came in and wrote my verse soon as I heard his part and next thing you know we laid it and realized we had a bop!

SFND MAG: Purple’s the Laaaaaabel...

Y’all stay repping! Tell us about your team on Purple Label.

KEESH HAWKZ: It’s Purple Label Baby! Hell yea, that’s the team. So to sum it up Purple represents Royalty, meaning we hold ourselves to the highest standard. We’re a group of multi talented artists / creatives that all have completely different styles, sounds, and overall so dope in our very own right.

That’s Family.

SFND MAG: Speaking of purple. We cannot help but notice that you are a “smoker ... smoker” (in my HaHa Davis voice). [LAUGHS] You spark one on 90% of your IG posts and you definitely create this crazy dope vibe that just makes a person want to light up

Photography: Lourenso Ramautar

ON THE VERGE

“Understand that every single person has a story.

I’m telling mine with the hopes that I’m helping others too.

KEESH HAWKZ

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ON THE VERGE

“My creative process consists of me mentally escaping while simultaneously getting in tune with myself.

Just settling into me, like what I feel and think.”

-KEESH HAWKZ Photography: Terry Starr

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ON THE VERGE whether they smoke or not! [LAUGHS] Is putting one in the air a vital part of your creative process?

KEESH HAWKZ: [LAUGHS] Ayooooo my friends Legit call me the female Wiz Khalifa. I’m known to out smoke many men. [LAUGHS] But of course! My creative process consists of me mentally escaping while simultaneously getting in tune with myself. Just settling into me, like what I feel and think.

How I want to get it out and most importantly why? So, Yes to answer your question! #stonershit SFND MAG: Ummm… so if you had to give us a recommendation on Keesh’s Top three strands, what would you recommend?

KEESH HAWKZ: Damn only three right? Easy! I LOVE LOVE LOVE: Blue Dream; Dream Queen; Strawberry Runtz.

SFND MAG: So you also released a record last year called Treehuggers Unite. That joint is dope as well. Obviously, we know the inspiration behind the record. How have the treehuggers responded to the song so far?

KEESH HAWKZ: I see what you did there! [LAUGHS] Thanks Homie! They fuckin wit it! TreeHuggers are Lovers of Nature and Lovers by Nature. So naturally, they’re going to love a record that promotes peace, love, and unity. I’m a hippie at heart and so are most TreeHuggers. I’ve performed that song at many 4/20 events.

SFND MAG: You spit quite a few verses regularly on social media but we have only noticed a few songs available on Spotify... Where can we hear more music from you? Please tell me we can expect a full-length album from you sometime soon? If so what is the name of the project and the anticipated release date?

KEESH HAWKZ: On iTunes, YouTube, SoundCloud, etc. I just released my new single “$um It Up” Out Now On all music streaming platforms! Yes, Yes and Yessss! I’m dropping my long-awaited Ep titled “WildChild The Ep” Very, Very soon.

(I know it’s overdue) So please stay tuned and thank you for your patience with me. The project is done, set to drop in April / May, and most definitely will be well worth the wait!

SFND MAG: From what we have heard thus far, you have had some amazing production as well. Who are some of the producers you have worked with thus far and who would you like to work with in the future?

KEESH HAWKZ: The late Great DJ Calzz (Long Live Dj Calzz) my Boy Teezy from out Atlanta. I get a lot of fire beats from online producers too. Damn sure would love to work with the legend Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliot/ Wondagurl / Dj Khaled/ London/ Murda / Zaytoven just to name a few.

KEESH HAWKZ: Eloquent.

SFND MAG: Has it been difficult to make your mark as a female M.C. in New Jersey? If so... why do you think that is?

If not... then what has set you apart from the rest?

KEESH HAWKZ: It has been somewhat difficult mainly because the industry is sooooo overly saturated with mediocre rap. It’s hard for the fans to focus. But when people get a second to listen, they discover that they love it or at the very least respect it. Real shit.

SFND MAG: How can your new fans reach you on social media?

KEESH HAWKZ: Technically, I do have Twitter; IG; Snapchat (debating getting TikTok) but I spend the Majority of my social media on IG. I may get better with this but as of right now. Get with me on IG. SFND MAG: Before you go, could you name another artist that you think is “So FN Dope” and tell us why?

KEESH HAWKZ: Bless McFly because 1) He’s fire AF (his sound is so different) and 2.) He’s my label mate and just an ill ass person / artist. Interview him and see for yourself.

SFND MAG: Once again, thank you so much Keesh for interviewing with us. It has been a pleasure. We definitely wish you much continued success and look forward to seeing you doing some big things in the near future.

“When people get a second to listen, they discover that they love it or at the very least respect it.

Real shit.”

-KEESH HAWKS

SFND MAG: If you had to describe your style in on word, what would it be?

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@CREATIVE_BEAUTY_BOUTIQUE

SPECIALIZING IN HAIRCUTS, COLOR, TREATMENTS, HIGHLIGHTING, WAXING, MAKEUP & BRIDAL PACKAGES

.

Photography: Michael W. Eaton

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FEATURED

THOMAS

TIGER ROGERS

By definition, this next artist is nothing short of a musical genius. He has traveled the world and played alongside of music legends. He also gives a new meaning to playing multiple instruments. You’ll see exactly what we mean after you read our interview with saxophonist Thomas “Tiger” Rogers as he talks to us about his new album Perspective.

JACKSON, MS

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FND MAG: Tiger!!! What’s happening my brother? So excited for this interview. Very glad to make this happen. How have you been?

THOMAS ROGERS: Bro, I’m doing well. Just enjoying life and continuing to grow as a man and pursue my passions. GOD/ FAMILY/ MUSIC

that equation.

THOMAS ROGERS: Being from Mississippi brings me great joy to represent a state that has a vast history in America.

My style of music expresses so many cultures of our state from gospel, folk, and jazz. I feel my music gives an alternative value.

SFND MAG: Now, is Tiger your real name or just your stage name?

SFND MAG: So, do you think the way people perceive jazz and blues Music has changed a lot over the years. Many modern genres like Hip-Hop and R&B are derivatives of Blues, Jazz, and Gospel.

How then are these newer genres giving back or contributing back to say its original roots in the jazz and blues industry?

THOMAS ROGERS: No, Tiger is not my real name. It’s my nickname when I was born, so it should have been. As I got older and became a performer, it stuck with me. They say when I was born I was an orange wrinkly baby and my wrinkles reminded them of tiger stripes.

THOMAS ROGERS: Music continues to progress and evolve almost within every decade. I believe that when jazz/blues artists step out in search of new inventive rules it continues to help the original roots continue to thrive and become more valuable

SFND MAG: We have seen and heard a lot of saxophonist but none quite like you. Tell us a little about yourself. Where you from and how did you initially get started playing the saxophone and composing music?

SFND MAG: We must say that you have a tremendous talent playing the saxophone. Not only do you play soprano, alto, tenor sax, but also we’ve actually seen you play two saxophones at the same time! This is amazing, how did you learn to do that?

THOMAS ROGERS: I’m from Jackson, MS and began playing the saxophone @ Whitten Middle School, band director Wayne Miller. I began playing by ear and studying horn parts at my home church at the age of 11.

SFND MAG: How would you say that you describe your music? Do you classify yourself as a jazz musician? Or would you say your music falls in another genre?

THOMAS ROGERS: Because my primary instrument is saxophone, yes I would classify it in some way jazz because it requires me to use improvisation, which is the sole component in jazz. My musical influences are also rooted in jazz.

SFND MAG: So, you’re from Jackson, MS. Mississippi is said to be the birthplace American music. As a MS native, tell us a little about the music scene right now and how your style of music fits in

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THOMAS ROGERS: One day I was playing the piano and realized that on the piano, you can play harmonies and melodies but you could not on the woodwind.

So I obsessed with wanting to make harmonies like the piano. I can actually do three Saxes at once.

SFND MAG: Do you play any other instruments? How many?

THOMAS ROGERS: Yes. I play seven.

Saxophone ( tenor, alto. soprano, and baritone) Melodica Keyboard/Piano Penny whistle Pan flutes Ewi (Electric sax) Beat Machines SFND MAG: When did you start composing your own music?

“I believe that when jazz/blues artists step out in search of new inventive rules, it continues to help the original roots continue to thrive and become more valuable. ” -TIGER

FEATURED

Photography: Michael W. Eaton

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“

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW FEATURED

Photographer: Diana Ragland Groomer: Thea Istenes Wardrobe Stylist: Gaelle Paul

“I’m a very firm believer that the youth are our future and so what they do tomorrow is going to be influenced by what is happening today. ”

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FEATURED Photography: Michael W. Eaton

--DENIM RICHARDS

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FEATURED

“I can actually do three Saxes at once.” " --TIGER

THOMAS ROGERS: I started composing my own music when I was in college around the year 2000.

SFND MAG: Who are some of your musical influences?

THOMAS ROGERS: John Coltran, Miles Davis & Ron Kenoly SFND MAG: Now you are still a young guy, yet you have accomplished so much? You have already traveled the world playing that sax. You have even play alongside the late great legendary B.B. King. What was that experience like?

THOMAS ROGERS: I honestly thought I was in a dream. (Outer body experience) SFND MAG: You have also won several

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awards in your home state of Mississippi and even were the youngest person to be inducted into the MS Blues Hall of Fame! That is a hefty honor. Tell us a little about this!

projects and we always talked of doing a big project together, so we began to look for sounds that could illustrate the mood of the project a. It took time and patience but here we are.

THOMAS ROGERS: I was inducted in 2011 into the Mississippi Jazz Foundation Hall of Fame with Aspiring Artist Award. Saxophonist Gerald Albright and Mike Burton were also honorees

SFND MAG: How did you come up with the name “Perspective” for the project and what is the premise behind the name?

SFND MAG: So you have recently released your latest single entitled “Seaside” and it generated quite a on the internet. Amazing record by the way. Tell us a bit about how this record came about.

THOMAS ROGERS: The title single “Seaside” was produced by Gus Parker and executive produced by Mike Welch.

Over the years I’ve worked on exclusive

THOMAS ROGERS: It literally popped in my head. I wanted something or a word that everyone could relate to.

Everyone has a Perspective.

SFND MAG: What can we expect from this album?

THOMAS ROGERS: Passion! Different expressions of feeling. Each song is like a story.

FEATURED SFND MAG: What do you hope to bring to the table with your music to the industry?

THOMAS ROGERS: The album is out now on all major platforms. It came out last January.

THOMAS ROGERS: I hope to bring relevance back to instrumental albums and for it not to be commercialized, but also respected like lyrical artists. I think Kenny G. is not the only artist that can represent that instrumental brand.

SFND MAG: How can your fans reach you on social media?

THOMAS ROGERS: James Mike Day. We worked together in San Jose. He’s a great friend and he’s the organ player for NHL Hockey team San Jose Sharks.

THOMAS ROGERS: You can find me on tigerrogers.com also on Facebook and Instagram/ThomasRogers. My email is tigerrogerspublishing@gmail.com

SFND MAG: Once again, thank you so much Tiger for interviewing with us. It has been a pleasure .We definitely wishes you much success!

SFND MAG: What is the anticipated release date?

FN Dope” and tell us why?

SFND MAG: Before you go, could you name another artist that you think is “So

“I hope to bring relevance back to instrumental albums and for it not to be commercialized, but also respected like lyrical artists."

-TIGER

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BUSINESS

Women

CAN IMPROVE ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE Leadership opportunities for women in business Article by Chayo Briggs

A

re you aware that companies who hire more women can greatly benefit; it is estimated that companies with three or more women in senior management functions score higher in all dimensions of organizational performance?

Not to mention, “women’s economic equality is good for business. Companies greatly benefit from increased employment and leadership opportunities for women, which is shown to increase organizational effectiveness and growth.”

(McKinsey & Company, n.d.)

As a highly successful real estate investor and credit repair advisor, for over seventeen years, Chayo Briggs is driven to obtain the highest standards for his clients, especially the woman who come to him for help with rebuilding their credit.

His success in working with a woman in general with credit problems has proven to be highly advantageous for them in the empowerment of their personal and professional life.

Women entrepreneurs have become a

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force to be reckoned with in the business world. As the market grows, it is proving to be a critical source of innovation plus job creation to fuel economic growth.

Nonetheless, woman-owned businesses are not granted equal capital in investment opportunities, which roughly shows to be more than a $300 billion-dollar credit gap. (WGDP , n.d.) The concepts are basically simple, however in today’s society, having just an average credit rating may not be enough. If you are female with a lower score, the chances of credit approval decrease. Employers are beginning to check credit history to make sure an employee is a good fit. Think of your credit score as a resume, your life history.

On average men have an average credit score of 630 out of a possible 850, but many women lag behind at 621. In most cases, credit scores do improve with age, but women tend to never draw even, let alone pull ahead. (Morad, n.d.)

In case you are wondering why the difference, it mostly boils down to the gender pay gap. Yes, the imbalance has improved since 2016 but women are generally paid

about 22 percent lower than the average men’s salary. Because of the lower annual income, causes many women to use a larger portion of their available credit.

“That hurts their creditworthiness,” Steve Millstein, a certified credit counselor at Credit Repair Expert. (WGDP , n.d.)

B about 22 percent lower than the average men’s salary. Because of the lower annual income, causes many women to use a larger portion of their available credit.

“That hurts their creditworthiness,” Steve Millstein, a certified credit counselor at Credit Repair Expert. (WGDP , n.d.)

But Chayo does not want anyone thinking the credit bureaus prefer one gender over another. It is simply a numbers game; they care about creditworthiness, which is influenced by income, outstanding debt and the history of repaying loans or making timely payments for goods and services.

“They simply use numbers and facts to draw their inferences,” Millstein said.

(Morad, n.d.)

BUSINESS championed the narrative for more women in leadership and management positions. (Today, n.d.)

In today’s political climate change, the lobby has gained momentum. So much so, that it might receive backing of law.

If the re-introduction of the Paycheck Fairness act of 2019 become reality the tables may very well change. The news for women, in general, it fantastic, especially for those who seek higher education. It may also work on rebuilding communities and creating a sustainable economy.

(Tran, 2019) The statistics prove that having more females in the work environment is linked to improved overall productivity, along with organizational health. Besides the fact that a gender-diverse atmosphere tends to be less aggressive, enhancing collaboration among employees and management.

“A study by the Center For Creative Leadership found that having women in the workplace actually increases the level of job satisfaction and dedication in the organization.” One other key factor has shown to be valuable, in organizations that are staffed over 45% females, the burnout rate decreases and most find their work more meaningful. In light of this fact, employee retention would increase limiting the amount of hiring additional staff thereby improving an overall human-centric environment.

The basic concepts of credit stability are simple, but most people see these topics as taboo, when in fact they are essential to becoming a successful financially independent individual. Chayo knows such issues are daunting, but you may need to borrow money at some point in the future. Your credit score determines two things that can affect your loan approval.

First, lending money entails risk; lenders need to know you are reliable. Second, it determines the terms of your loan.

Chayo always recommends as a rule of thumb to keep the credit utilization under 30 percent; that is the amount of credit you owe compared to the credit limit. In other words, the limit is $1000 then the balance should stay below $300

on average. Remember, think of your credit as a resume, it tells everything about your habits in daily life.

The women who pursue higher education and find meaningful work prove to be more impactful on their families, community, and economy.

A study by UNESCO indicated that for every year a country’s average year of schooling increases, the country can expect long-term economic growth by as much as 3.7%. Today, there are more social enterprises, celebrities, and philanthropists dedicated to empowering women than a decade ago. And influential leaders such as Jack Ma, Richard Branson, and Kevin O’Leary have also

In recent years, some Fortune 500 companies with the highest representation of women on boards financially outperform companies with the lowest representation of female staffing. (Center for Creative Leadership , n.d.)

Another surprising fact you may not be aware of is by rebuilding a neglected neighborhood can open the door for most of the local businesses. If these local businesses have a higher concentration of female workers, they reportedly have improved workplace morale and the overall bottom line. It especially applies true if there are females in leadership positions in those companies.

“A study conducted by the Peterson

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BUSINESS Peterson Institute of International Economics suggested that companies with 30% or more females in leadership positions can yield as much as six percent more profit. Building a diverse and inclusive workplace isn’t just good for the community, it’s also good for business.

“Alibaba, China’s biggest online e-commerce company with a net worth of over $84 billion, is a great example of how a company’s focus on building an inclusive and supportive culture for women greatly affected their financial success. The company claims over 34% of its senior management are females. Alibaba’s workforce also claims to have over 40% of females.

Jack Ma, the previous CEO of Alibaba, once said, “If you want your company to be successful, then you should hire female workers!”.

Women are more likely to get their families out of debt. Families that are living in recovering communities are often weighed down by economic burdens such as neglected mortgages, high-interest loans and unpaid debt that keeps them from being financially stable.

However, in most cases when women in the household have a say in the financial decisions that may not be the case.

According to Bankrate, “men are 4.3% more likely to carry debt than women.

Men also are more likely to fall behind on their mortgage and spend more than their credit allows. Women, on the other hand, are 67% more likely to seek credit counseling than men. And post-coun-

Chayo Briggs

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seling, women are more likely to follow through with payments and eventually be out of debt.”

The overall contribution of over seven trillion dollars in annual consumer spending in the US alone is among the female gender. Of that 83% is consumer purchases, it’s no secret that women are the biggest and best consumers. In underrepresented areas, women are more likely to purchase from local businesses, keeping the doors open. Consequently, these traits increase the local wages and produce a thriving local economy, one that is supporting business owners.

As an author and public speaker, Chayo’s books, especially ‘Your Credit Defines Your Creditability’ offer readers inspiration to help them learn the fundamentals of rebuilding their credit, as well as entrepreneurial and financial skills. For over seventeen years Chayo’s mission is to educate minority communities on the importance of having good credit in today’s society. When someone is able to build a positive credit resume, they can easily obtain passive income to increase their financial investments.

Please visit his website for more credit help, https://chayobriggs.com Follow Me:

https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=509778420 https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chayo-briggsbsbm-m-p-a-a2349a16/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsxpMmAHrCI

“If you want your company to be succesful, then you should hire female workers!”.

-JACK MA

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DOPE QUOTES

DOPEQUOTES

“If you’re scared to take chances, you’ll never have the answers.” - Nas

“Hip-Hop isn’t just music.

It’s also a spiritual movement of blacks! You can’t just call hip-hop a trend.”

-Lauryn Hill 40- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM - SPRING 2020

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” –Mahatma Gandhi

“You smart! You loyal!

You’re a genius!”

– DJ Khaled

“Everyday is a new opportunity to reach that goal.”

– Rick Ross

“Memories have to be our most painful blessing.”

– Kanye West

DOPEQUOTES “Peace comes from within.

Do not seek it without.”

– Muhammad Ali

DOPE QUOTES

“Even when I’m on my back, I never back down.”

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“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.”– Booker T. Washington “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” – Martin Luther King, Jr. “The truth is you don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow. Life is a crazy ride and nothing is guaranteed.” – Eminem SPRING 2020- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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TIPS

HOW CAN I SAFELY WEAR

protective hairstyles?

By: Sue Giplaye, BraidLux Blogger

W

ith the coronavirus epidemic sweeping the globe, many businesses are temporarily closing their doors for the next few weeks to months. This includes hairstylists.

It is being strongly advised that people avoid crowds of more than 100 people.

Although your salon is likely to not have a large crowd, you may still want to be diligent. Now is the time to learn how to be self-sufficient. If you cannot connect with your stylist during this time, you can teach yourself how to create your own protective hairstyles. You may also want to consult your stylist for tips on maintenance.

What Should I Look for When I Buy Protective Hairstyles Online?

When shopping for hair weaves/wigs online, you do not want to be scammed or tricked. So, make sure that you look for these things: Positive hair reviews. Make sure other people are praising the extensions.

• Call customer care. Ask questions to ensure they know what they are selling.

• Do proper research. Implore the Web for other hair gurus and see what sites they recommend.

How Can I Care for My Natural Hair Underneath Protective Hairstyles?

When you do not care properly for your natural hair while wearing protective hairstyles, you can experience extreme dryness, breakage, and even hair loss. So, make sure you apply the weave by following hair tutorials. Also, make sure that your natural strands are properly nourished. Take vitamins to keep your hair healthy. Apply oils to your scalp regularly.

And make sure you routinely shampoo and condition your hair. Your stylist will more than likely be happy to provide you with advice in the meantime.

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What Is the Difference Between Human Hair and Synthetic?

When buying hair for a protective hairstyle, you will have to choose between human hair and synthetic hair. Here are the advantages of human hair: • It easily camouflages with your natural hair • It has more styling options, such as bleaching, coloring, and texturizing.

• It can survive a curling iron and other heated styling tools.

• It has a softer and silki er texture to it.

The advantages of synthetic hair are: • • • •

Inexpensive for those who want to save money Does not require a lot of styling Can withstand many different climates Does not need a lot of maintenance

The versatility of weaves/wigs is very appealing. You can try out Box Braids for some months. Then you can rock a lace

wig or frontal unit. If you want a more natural look you can experiment with crochet braids. Whatever you choose, just make sure you don’t over wear weaves.

You need to allow time for your hair and scalp to breathe.

Protective styles protect your hair from physical, chemical and/or environmental hairstyles. If you are manipulating your hair daily it can cause breakage, dryness, and stress. Cold air, wind, and frost can strip your natural hair of its essential oils.

That is why investing in wigs and weaves can protect your hair. If done the right way, it can even promote growth.

Have questions? Reach out to us at info@ braidlux.com

Sources: https://naturallclub.com/blogs/the-naturall-club-blog/myths-and-tips-about-protective-styles https://myrevair.com/blogs/news/protective-styling-everything-you-need-to-know https://www.liveabout.com/benefits-of-protective-styles-for-black-hair-400091

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

Q

PARKER

Our cover artist hardly needs an introduction. Not only is he a member of one of the most recognized R&B groups of the late 90’s and early 2000’s, but he is so much more. A father, a husband, a community leader, and philanthropist are just some of the many hats that he wears and now he is taking his passion and combining it with his mission to connect men all around the world in the spirit of unity. Check out our exclusive interview with Q Parker as we talk about building his legacy through music, brotherhood, and service to his community.

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S COVER STORY

FND MAG: Q! What is happening my brother? We appreciate you taking the time to interview with us. Glad we could finally make this happen.

Q PARKER: It’s a pleasure man.

SFND MAG: We certainly wish that we could have done the interview under better circumstances. Wish we could have done this face to face, but video conference is the next best thing considering the fact that Covid-19 has the entire world being still right now. How are you and your family holding up in this crisis?

Q PARKER: All is well.... All is well.

I’m looking at this as needed time you know. My wife and I get to spend more time together. Our son, (we have a 10th grader) he is in the house and we are able to do some things together. I’m actually loving this time being in quarantine so close to those I love. So what I’m doing is, I am making sure that I’m just pouring and pouring, because there will come a time when we have to go back to the

hustle and bustle. However, I want to have poured so much into my wife and our children that if I need two weeks of freedom to get back in the grind, nobody suffers because during this quarantine time I would have given them so much love, attention, and time.

SFND MAG: That’s major. The unfortunate thing is that it took something like this, especially for us because we are always on the hustle and grind trying to be those providers that sometimes we may miss out on those small increments of time where you are learning about your son or daughter, your wife or even yourself. So for us, time with our loved ones is always appreciated.

Q PARKER: I agree SFND MAG: So we wanted to do a little icebreaker with you and take a minute to go down memory lane. Many people know you as 1/4 of one of the biggest R&B groups of the late 90’s and early 2000’s. You’ve had hits such as “Cupid”, “Peaches & Cream”, “Only You” and “It’s Over Now”. What was it like being in not only one of the hottest R&B groups at that time but also on one of the hottest record labels as well?

Q PARKER: You know, I think that I enjoy it more now than I could recognize and realize while it was actually happening, because I see now that we are attached to an era of music that will go down in history books. When you talk about Bad Boy and the reign that Bad Boy had from about 94’ until 2005; in those ten years Bad Boy was the hottest.

So you can’t talk about the evolution of Hip-Hop and R&B without talking about Bad Boy and you can’t talk about Bad Boy without mentioning 112. You can’t talk about 112 without mentioning Q, Mike, Slim, and Daron and so for me that’s legacy work. I think we all strive to do work that will live long after you are no longer here. So to be connected to such a brand with such rich history like Bad Boy and 112 and not just traveling alone, but to be able to share these experiences with my brothers Slim, Mike, and Daron, was the ultimate.

SFND MAG: That is awesome! Speaking of Slim, Mike, and Daron, I know you may have noticed, groups like B2K and Pretty Ricky starting to go back on reunion tours lately. We know the fans want to see 112 back on the stage and hear some of those hits. What is your relationship like with the rest of the guys?

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

Velvet floral dress: Caroline Contas Vest: Joanna Hadfield Chain belt and bracelet: The Archives & Showroom Private Collection Choker and black crescent earrings: Mahrukh Akuly Rings: Vintage Loafers: Club Monaco

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COVER STORY

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

Is that even a possibility?

Q PARKER: Well, you know man, time is always the key. Right now, we are all just kind of doing our thing. When you consider that we’ve been together since middle school. We’re talking about 12 and 13. I just had my 43rd birthday. So we’re talking 30 plus years. Oh well… my wife just reminded me 44th birthday.

[LAUGHS] So when you think about all of those years, it’s just difficult for a man to fully identify with his individual calling and his individual purpose without affecting the movement of the group.

It’s not easy, however I ‘d like to say that there are some things that I needed to accomplish as Q Parker and that I needed to step aside for a second just so that I could answer the call that I feel like I had been called to lead. Therefore, I had to step away for a little bit so that I could finalize all of these things that I had been destined to do as Q Parker, and not necessarily Q Parker of 112.

SFND MAG: No doubt. That is actually a nice segue to our next question. So obviously, you have had a really successful career in music as a singer / songwriter

however, more recently we have noticed that you have shifted your focus and your efforts more towards the community.

Could you tell us a little about your organization, Brothers United of Atlanta?

Q PARKER: Yes, Brothers United started the whole Q Parker Legacy Movement.

It is what has me so attached to black men and to men all over this world and to the community. I believe that, I didn’t get here without the investment, the thoughts, and the prayers of not only family, but also the community. Because I now have a platform and some level of influence, it is my responsibility to pour it back in the community. In 2014, I went though one of the most life altering stages in my life where I was facing divorce.

My wife and I are just weren’t seeing eye to eye, and the reason was because of my lack of commitment and my inability to operate as full man and really connect to what the responsibilities that men are attached to. Because I couldn’t do that, it affected my marriage, it affected my relationship with my children, and it even affected my career in some ways. I had to just sit down and look myself in the face and say,” Who are you” minus

the records, minus the awards minus the acclaim. “Who are you and what do you want your legacy to be.” I’ll never forget.

This is an important story. My phone was hacked into back when icloud email was me.com. I lost access and my manager at the time suggested that we need to come up with a new email address and it just hit me; QP Legacy. That was the first time I had even spoken the word legacy that would now make me accountable for doing the work that would give me a great legacy. I know that I’ve already done the 112 stuff, but who is Q Parker as a man.

I realized that during this time I wanted to be better, but I just didn’t have anyone to talk to. I didn’t have anyone that I felt I could trust enough to talk about my transgressions, my failures, or me falling short or any of that. I just didn’t want just any other brother to experience that so, Brothers United was created. It’s group therapy man. It’s a space that’s safe where men come together and we motivate and encourage each other. We meet once a month and we have a Monday morning prayer call every Monday morning.

Then from Brothers United came Sisters United and from that came Couples United and from there Youth United, SPRING 2020- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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COVER STORY

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

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COVER STORY

which is our summer camp. For the final piece to the Legacy Foundation, we do this annual initiative for the senior citizens community. The reason why my foundation’s mission is to impact every aspect the family, is because when I was going through tough times, I saw how my inability to be a mature man affected not only me , but also it affected my wife as a woman. It also affected our marriage as a couple and it affected our children. It even affected my parents and the in-laws.

So I wanted everything I did from a communal standpoint to impact every aspect of the family component. So that’s what the Q Parker Legacy is, and that is what we are committed to.

SFND MAG: That is phenomenal. For us, being black men, especially coming from the South, we never really heard people talk much about legacy. That wasn’t a black and brown thing. That was a subject often discussed by wealthier white men. They talked about legacy and what they were going to leave behind whether it was tangible things, or whether it was a transfer of knowledge. So to hear you talk passionately about legacy and really having that knowledge transfer and safe haven is really refreshing. Accountability is so important. We must hold each other accountable as men to do exactly the things that you are talking about, because if we don’t then we will not have that legacy. That is very powerful. So in the spirit of that movement that has been created through Brothers United, you’ve also been recording an album entitled, The Bridge Project. Tell us about the project.

Q PARKER: Yes. So… again, everything is a derivative of this movement of men.

I’ve just been called to gather and galvanize men because I believe that the day that men accept their full responsibility and operate in our greatness, everything connected to us wins. So when we win, our children win. When we win, the community wins, but we have to have a certain mindset, and so I wanted to create a project to motivationally impact and empower men all over this world. The Bridge Project initially was to redefine and recement the lifestyle standards and cultural codes of men. “Who are we?”

“What were we created to do”? “What does it really mean to be my brother’s keeper?’ “ How does iron truly sharpen

--CRESS WILLIAMS

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

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COVER STORY

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton Top Left: Q Parker & Avery Wilson Center Page: Jonathan McReynolds , Q Parker, & Musiq Soulchild Botton Left: Zebulon Ellis & Q Parker Bottom Right: PJ Morton & Q Parker

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COVER STORY iron?” “How do you present yourself the sharpened tool to sharpen someone else?” I wanted to spread this mission musically. In addition to the musical piece, there are three other components of this Bridge Project movement, so I’m very careful when we talk about The Bridge Project because it’s not just the album, but it is a full fledged movement.

We have a musical piece, which is the album. We are also filming a documentary just talking about the evolution of men; so we are talking to a lot of distinguished men who can give us insight. For the third component we took the album and made it the soundtrack to the featured film that we are filming called Rescue Me. Rescue Me is a story of failure, fame, and faith. It’s a faith-based movie, which I’ll be starring in as well as some of my colleagues. Many of them are brothers that are on the album. I started my own production company and partnered with Manns/Mackie Studios to produce the movie. The forth component is of The Bridge Project movement is a forty day men’s affirmation book to continue the motivation and inspiration. In addition to doing all of these things, it took me back to my own personal testimony, growing up in the church, but getting

an R&B record deal and I saw right then and there the vision. I saw how Gospel was here, and R&B was over there.

I wanted to build a bridge that would connect these two worlds that are often pitted against each other. So I got on the phone and I started calling all the brothers I knew from Gospel to R&B and I thought if we could blend these two genres together and show brotherhood and community then it would be the first leg of this movement where magic happens. I was able to get 55 guys on this project to commit to this movement of brotherhood. There are 55 guys that represent the Gospel and R&B industry and this project is amazing. If I had to just run down a list, we’re talking Jonathan McReynolds, Travis Greene, Todd Dulaney, VaShawn Mitchell, Byron Cage, Darwin Hobbs, John P. Kee. That’s just a few on the Gospel side. On the R&B side, there is Ginuwine, Tank, Bobby Valentino, Ruben Studdard, Lyfe Jennings, Jacquees and more. It’s just an amazing project of men coming together, loving each other, and spreading this movement of brotherhood and unity. I’m proud of it. To me, it is the best musical work that I’ve ever done, and I know that’s saying a lot considering all that I’ve been able to

accomplish with 112. However, serving this community, and giving the people something that can actually fuel them to become better is what drives me and I’m just proud of this project and movement.

SFND MAG: Q, you have quite a few Gospel giants and R&B stars on the album. How did you manage to get so many high profile artists to commit to doing a project of this magnitude? Did you schedule it out? Did you have a list?

If so who were some of the people that did not make the album?

Q PARKER: So… whenever you’re in a group, everyone has to identify with specific role. My role in 112, was “the connector”… “the politician”… the guy who would go in the radio station and I’d get the program director’s number or I’d get the promoter’s number and I’d just build the relationship. Over the years, I’ve established some really great relationships to the point where it showed itself because when I picked up the phone and called these guys, it wasn’t about money.

It was a yes simply because “I rock with you.” So a lot of guys are on the album simply because I asked and because I had good credit and a good reputation

Photographer: Michael W. Eaton Q Parker, Ginuwine, & Montell Jordan SPRING 2020- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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COVER STORY out here in these streets with these guys. They were just like “It’s all good.” Now I will say to you, that it is difficult enough just getting one feature on an album. You guys know that.

[LAUGHS] So to get 55 guys to commit just showed me that this was something that I was called to do. It also showed me that if God gives you a vision, He will make provision. I had to be willing to follow the vision to a “T” because there were some people that I wanted on the record that maybe either declined, didn’t call back in time or maybe I tried to force on a record. However, I had to be obedient and just believe enough to just show up and allow everything to happen. So the 55 guys that did commit were the guys that were supposed to have been on the record and I wouldn’t change it for anything.

SFND MAG: We keep hearing the number 55. Was there any significance to this number or is this just where you ended up after the smoke cleared?

Q PARKER: No, to be honest, I just went in my phone and started calling guys. In 2016, coming out of my storm, I wanted to do a Gospel/Inspirational record, and so I called three of my good friends to Atlanta. I flew them down here.

I called my good friend Marcus Devine, who is an incredible songwriter and producer. I called my brother Eric Dawkins, who is an extraordinary vocalist, songwriter and producer and another good friend of mine named Bigg Makk. We got in the studio and just started recording. I had this idea to do a song called “Brothers United” and the original goal was to have the four of us on the song. We all recorded the song and one day I just got this vision that this would be this generation’s “We Are the World.” From that day, I got on the phone and just started calling guys. The song was already written and demoed, but I had to be the ultimate puzzle maker. It’s only a three-minute song, and so to get 46 guys on this one record called “I Need You” was going to be a huge task. I didn’t even know that there was going to be 46 guys on one song but as I started identifying with their voices, I would just get them to sing this line or that line and it just started coming together. So the end result was 46 guys on “I Need You” and the remaining nine songs were a collaboration of duos that blend a Gospel singer and R&B singer together to show that sonically, the gift is the gift and that it doesn’t matter what genre you sing when you are pushing positivity and community and brotherhood. That’s why we’re going to win.

It just came out incredible.

SFND MAG: Absolutely. The gift is coming from the same place. It is coming from the Most High, so you know that it’s Teddywell.

Labissiere of Caravan Film talking Crews amongst each isPhotographer: going to blend So…we were just Makeup: Shabana Buksh of Creative Beauty Boutique other about the “We Are the World” record and how there Wardrobe Stylist: Amanda Massi hadn’t really been anything that remotely resembles a record like that since, Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Quincy Bomber jacket: Kenneth Jones did it. So to seeBarlis it being done now in present day is Fur Vest: Jonathan Marc Stein pretty dope.

Metallic leather pants: Stand Studio Earrings and rings: Vintage Necklace: WaseeSo we heard you mention quite a few names.

SFND MAG: Shoes: x Steve Tell us,Winnie are your 112Madden brothers on the project, or are there any

plans to include them on the project at any point?

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Q PARKER: Well, the interesting about that is, Daron is actually on the record. Mike and Slim are currently holding the 112 brand and so we weren’t able to schedule anything because they’re still on the road holding down the 112 movement. So yes, Daron is on the record but Slim and Mike aren’t on the project, respectfully.

SFND MAG: Speaking of the record, we heard the new single “Made For,” and it completely blew us away. Listening to the power, and clarity of the vocals, the precision of production and the movement of the song and modulations were incredible. It’s as if you all perfectly placed all the components that make up a good song into that record. It was very well orchestrated. We were wondering if we could look forward to the rest of the album to being on this level?

Q PARKER: I’ll tell you this. First of all, let me just shout out my brothers Avery Wilson, Deitrick Haddon, Eric Dawkins and also my production partner Jeremy James aka Jay Jay. Let me say, Eric wrote an amazing record man. I told him that if we were going to start this movement, then we first would have to define what the movement is. So we’re talking about this movement of brotherhood, so we had to define, “What were men made for? “What were we called to be?” That is how the song came about. He took the conversation that we had and went back to L.A. and wrote an amazing song. So big shout out to my brother Eric Dawkins and also Deitrick and Avery being on it blending these worlds sonically. You know, for this project I wanted to pair the most abstract tones that could show that we are all gifted and the gifts are magnetized to each other. So you have the lead single “Made For” that features Avery, Deitrick, and Eric, and then we have other collaborations on the record. There’s a record called “Unstoppable” featuring Mali Music and Bobby Valentino. We have another record called “Stars” featuring Courtney Wilson and Case. There’s another that I’m featured on ft Todd Delaney and another called My Brother’s Keeper featuring Jonathan McReynolds and Musiq Soulchild. So when you talk about the blending of these vocalists I was like a kid in a candy store because not only am I friends of these guys but I’m also fans of them as well. I’m also fan of Quincy Jones as well. He is one of my mentors and so to see what he did with the “We Are The World” movement and to see that I was orchestrating and producing a similar project was a humbling experience and also a task that I took on because I know that I was called to do this. The whole project was fun to record. It is a process that I will never forget. I enjoyed every single bit of it man and we’re just getting started because when we do get back to there being a sense of regularity you’ll see the performances behind it. Also, going back to the movie, a lot of the guys that are on the record are in the movie. So this is a movie like you’ve never seen before. It’s like music videos mixed in with storyline.

SFND MAG: I’m just trying to see why no one sent me a script. [ LAUGHS] Q: PARKER: Say the word because we are casting right now.

COVER STORY SFND MAG: Let me know. I’ll come audition.

Q PARKER: Say no more.

SFND MAG: No doubt! So, when can we expect The Bridge Project to be complete?

Q PARKER: So, the project is complete. All the components are done. We are just doing the final editing to the 40 Day Men’s Affirmation book and we are now doing the preproduction for the movie Rescue Me, but the actual album is complete. We had a scheduled date of June for the release, but considering everything going on we may push that back and we may just go into a singles movement where “Made For” is the current single and now we are gearing up for the big “I Need You” record. Once we get some clear vision as to what the future holds as it relates to our movement and us being able to get out here and work the record, then we’ll determine and decide and actual street date. For now, we’re going to just keep serving the mission and continue moving these records so that when the album is released people will have already heard three or four songs off the project and will want to go and get the full project.

SFND MAG: Well, we will definitely be looking for it.

Now, let us ask you this. Hypothetically, if you could go back in time or reverse time on The Bridge Project and get anyone on the project that maybe did not answer the call or had a scheduling conflict etc. then who would it be?

Q PARKER: So one of my all time favorite influences is Reverend John P. Kee and so I was able to get him on the album to be apart. I actually got in contact with him late after I had mixed and mastered the entire project. He responded that he’d do whatever was needed. So the song he is on, I actually went back and remastered it. That’s just how bad I wanted him on the record, but it also would have been a dream come true to have some of the guys from Commissioned to be a part of it. During the time of recording, they were gearing up for their reunion tour, they were doing a whole lot of things, and so our timing did not allow us to get together. But again, this is The Bridge Project: Brothers United Volume 1 and so I know that once everybody gets wind of what this movement is about, when we come back around there’ll be many more guys open and willing. I’m just grateful and blessed that those that did say yes and those whose schedules aligned because when you are putting together a project of this magnitude it is not easy. Some had to send in their vocal sessions, and you have to realize that you are on someone else’s time. So, what is important to you or 911 to you may not be 911 to someone else. So I learned a lot of patience. I learned how to get rid of pride because there were moments where, and I’m being real with you, I felt like if people weren’t going to be timely about sending in their files I was just going to just move on.

So I did have those moments, but it was all worth it because every time I was at my wits end, that’s when I got the email.

So it was all worth it. I’m proud of the guys that are on it. I’m proud of everyone that played a part from AP and the AP Factor for mixing the record and Glenn Schick for mastering

and all of the guys that are in front and behind the scenes to make this a monumental legacy project get to the finish line.

Also my partners eOne; eOne Nashville…Gina Miller, Omega for seeing the vision down there and partnering with us.

SFND MAG: Let us switch gears a bit. Are there any other endeavors or projects that you are working on currently or that you plan to work on when we get back to business after the pandemic? We saw you mention a new platform called MANCODE 100. Give us a little information on that.

Q PARKER: MANCODE 100. That’s how we pronounce it MANCODE One Hunnid.[LAUGHS] It’s understanding that with inception there came with us a set of responsibilities, but not only a set of responsibilities but we were equipped with all the tools that we need to carry out and fulfill these responsibilities. Somewhere along life and evolution, a lot of us became detached from the original purpose of that was placed on man and that is to abide by a certain code and that is the MANCODE. For years, I and so many others thought the man code was just taking each other’s secrets to the grave.

However, as I’ve matured and grown I’ve realize that man code means so much more. It is being accountable. It is truly being my brother’s keeper and to let your iron truly sharpen another man’s iron. Not only to connect and live by that, but when we have discussions be 100 with each other all the way across the board. So MANCODE 100 is just a platform where we just talk real. It is a division of Brothers United of Atlanta. We are 100 with each other and we are just talking about cementing and redefining and reclaiming the mindset of the man so that he understands that there is a code that we should abide by and that is the true man code and not some of the things that we’ve grown to define man code as.

--MACY GRAY

SFND MAG: Q, we can’t thank you enough for interviewing with us. You have truly been an inspiration man and we have definitely enjoyed this time spent with you today. We are sincerely humbled. We look up to you and respect what you are doing. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to continue to support all that you have going on.

Q PARKER: I appreciate you guys for allowing me to grace the cover of So FN Dope Magazine because I believe that you guys are So FN Dope. I’ve been a fan since I was introduced to you. So to have you guys to be interested in little ol’ Q Parker from Thomasville it means a lot to me. So please just continue to support by following the Q Parker Legacy Movement. That is qparkerlegacyfoundation.org. The Bridge Project movement is officialbridgeproject.com. ; Rescueme.movie is the film. Born Again is my clothing brand. I’m a born again Christian, unashamed, unapologetic and a believer. Shout out to my partner Shaunte and the entire Kingdom Builders and my partnership with them, and also me @qparker112 on all platforms, but it means a lot to me that you guys would think it necessary to spend this time with me today and allow me the opportunity to talk about all the things I have going on.

That means a lot to me, so thank you.

SFND MAG: It was our pleasure.

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Photographer: Michael W. Eaton

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COMMUNITY

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One on

One with

DONALD WASHINGTON

S

FND MAG: Mr. Donald Washington! How are you good sir? We are certainly appreciative of the time you took out of your schedule to be a part of this issue.

DONALD WASHINGTON: I appreciate the good vibes, I’m doing great. I hope this finds the readers peaceful with good vibes as well.

SFND MAG: For our audience, who may not know you right off the bat; give us a little background on yourself. You are originally from Indianapolis, correct? What was it like growing up in Indiana?

DONALD WASHINGTON: Correct, I’m from Indianapolis, Indiana. Indiana is unique in its own way like most places. I grew pretty much right in the middle of Indy, right next to the state fairgrounds, one of the rougher parts of Indy at the time.

A lot of drugs and violence in my early childhood, all around me. And as I got older and start to realize what was going…. gentrification was happening in my neighborhood while I was growing up as well. I grew up in the “ghetto.” My house was ghetto, and so were most people. [LAUGHS] I don’t want to go into too much detail but I had a very rough upbringing. VERY ROUGH. SFND MAG: Growing up in such a tough environment, at

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what point did you realize that playing football maybe your ticket out?

DONALD WASHINGTON: Actually growing up in Indiana, which we like to consider it a “basketball state” I didn’t like football originally. I wouldn’t say that I hated it, but I never saw myself playing football. I was a “gym rat”. I used to play basketball by myself in my grandmothers backyard, pretending that I’m Michael Jordan in my head. I used to use my imagination a lot when I was a kid and I used to see myself playing in the NBA really clear. Since as early as I can remember, I had dreams of going to the NBA. I didn’t start playing football until like 8th grade. I remember having a conversation with Coach Scheib, who was the varsity football coach at the time, about how I was going to quit football and just focus on basketball.

He told me I was too young to put all my eggs in one basket and that I should reconsider. So I did. [LAUGHS] When I entered High School I still had dreams of going to the NBA, I played varsity basketball my freshman year. As good as I was, I hated every minute of it. I could not stand playing basketball for Franklin Central. I was the best player on the team from day 1, but I wasn’t allowed to shoot or dribble basically. I would get taken out of the games for shooting the ball. The only thing they wanted me to do was rebound and set screens. I was cool on that. Basketball was my first love, but after my sophomore year in high school I no longer wanted to play. Ironically, I received my first football scholarship after my sophomore

year, and that’s when I started to shift my focus to football. It was no looking back.

My football coach was trying to help me get to the NFL, he understood what my reality was at home and said he was going to do everything in his power to help me change it.

SFND MAG: So you played at Ohio State on a full scholarship and were a 4th round draft pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2009. Describe to us the feeling of finally knowing that your dreams of playing in the NFL had finally come true.

DONALD WASHINGTON: It was surreal honestly. I can just remember crying.

I was sitting in my apartment that I had during college with family and a few friends when I got the call. My agent called my phone about an hr before I was drafted, it was during the 3rd round, and he said KC is looking for a deal to move up and pick you in the third round. They couldn’t find one, so he called me back at the beginning of the fourth round and was like KC is about to take you with their next pick. But watching the draft was a nervous breakdown. I have anxiety really bad and every time my phone rang it cranked up a notch. But the call was very settling. It didn’t finally hit me until later that night, and I was sitting up in my apartment and I started voicing it. Like yo, I really just got drafted. I was used to a life where we lacked everything, it seemed like we never had enough.

But when I got drafted I never had that feeling so my spirit kind of felt renewed.

Tough to put into words.

COMMUNITY

I didn’t. But in my environment it was easy for me to see who I was not. I grew up around drug dealers and crackheads and I knew I wasn’t one of them so sports and school was the next best thing for me.

young black reshape their mentality so that they can change their reality. It is a youth development program that targets young men through the ages 0f 11-17, or usually middle and high school age young men.

SFND MAG: Now that you have retired from your career in professional football, you have currently dedicated your efforts to serving our Youth through your nonprofit organization Smooth Transition.

Tell us a little about the program.

SFND MAG: So you have designed a program that provides resources to underserved youth in the community in so many ways. What initially inspired you to step out and give back to the community in this way?

DONALD WASHINGTON: Yes, Smooth Transition is very unique to me. It’s my baby; it was created from my experiences good and bad. I think it’s important that we teach people through our real experiences and be as transparent as possible.

At the time when I started ST I was doing a lot of journaling/writing with the hopes of publishing a book. I started working with Otterbein University, a school in Columbus OH, and we started taking that content and created a curriculum based on the life skills that I had learned through sports. My mission is to help

DONALD WASHINGTON: It was simple for me, I know what I needed at these years of my life. I didn’t know what or where I was going to eat after school. I grew up in a household with no running water and electricity most of the time.

So I can relate to a lot of kids. I just want them to know someone cares and that they can be somebody. I also notice a need. There’s a community of people who seem to always get overlooked, and Smooth Transition wants to shine a light on them.

SFND MAG: So many young people have dreams very similar to yours of being professional athletes. What kind of advice do you typically give to kids wanting to take a path similar to the one you chose?

DONALD WASHINGTON: Your circumstances don’t define you. So you can’t always get caught up in what it looks like. Better days are there for you if you just believe that what you want can be yours. I’ve always had a strong sense of who I was, and that allowed me to identify my gifts at a young age, so knowing who you are is important as well because that helps you set realistic goals. Not saying that I knew exactly who I was because SPRING 2020- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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SFND MAG: What are some of the resources that Smooth Transition provides for the youth and what progress have you all seen since opening in 2018?

DONALD WASHINGTON: Basic essentials, gift cards, back packs, school supplies, food, clothes, we also conduct weekly and bi-weekly in school mentoring sessions in various school districts with a selected group of young men from administration. In these sessions is where

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we talk about life skills and growing as men.

SFND MAG: How can others get involved and contribute to this foundation.

DONALD WASHINGTON: Yes. Subscribe to the website to stay up to date with events, and others ways to support, SFND MAG: How can learn more about Smooth Transition on social media?

DONALD WASHINGTON: www.transitionsmooth.org. Follow us on instagram @smoothtransition.

SFND MAG: Once again, thank you so much Donald for interviewing with us.

It has been a pleasure. We are definitely looking forward to seeing more growth in your organization as well as the amazing work that is being done at Smooth Transition and thank you my brother for what you are doing in your community.

That in itself is So FN Dope!

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