So FN Dope Magazine Issue 3

MERCENARY CHRONICLES

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with MERC B

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

TAUZHA page

44

FNDOPE

SO

MAGAZINE

BE FLY. BE ORIGINAL..

BE SOFNDOPE...

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hat’s good! Thank you for your interest in So FN Dope Magazine. We are a brand 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.

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“YXCVLI” Zapien

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FOUNDING EDITORS Walter M. Welch Jr. Corey Norwood Sr. Director or Art and Entertainment Ashton Francois Director of Marketing and Advertising Servon Moss CONTRIBUTORS Shadow Promotions Timeless Music Productions Logostix Graphic Design Hustle Daily Clothing Hype-Radio.com The Social Architects JB & Benny Blue Review Caravan Film Crews On the Real Videos MIC 2 U Mobile Studio Inkk Junkies Tattoos Curve Brows Unique Image Entertainment BLK KNGS Unusual Suspects Clothing Elite Images Photography Swank Publishing Blue Public Relations Cosey Photography YXCVLI CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mercenary B Williams Taura Stinson ARTISTS 1$t Letter Rodrael Charlie Muscle Corey Finesse Tauzha Y. Luck PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photographer Nelson Cosey of Cosey Photography Contributing Photographers Omar “YXCVLI” Zapien Jack Patterson Teddy Kareem Joha Harrison Jason Sinn Elliott James BADD ONES MODELS Devin Antonette

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CONTENTS FEATURES 14)

1$t LETTER Dive deep into the militant mindframe of a hiphop artist so hungry that he is willing to step to any rapper no matter their rank in hip-hop. Check out 1$t Letter and se how he plans to break his way into the industry.

20)

RODRAEL Check out this inspiring interview with Rodrael.

See how he plans to use his talents to help the youth and inspire others to follow their own dreams.

24)

CHARLIE MUSCLE See how Charlie Muscle plans to elevate his career in music. This Sacramento artist is serious about putting his city on his back and taking Sac to the top.

32)

COREY FINESSE Find out how it feels to live a day in the life of Corey Finesse. Check out his exclusive interview as he gives us a closer look in to his “ Life After 9” album.

44

TAUZHA Chicago’s diamond in the rough Tauzha talks exclusively with SoFNDope Magazine about her new project “5 Rings” and why she feels she is ready to take her rap career to the next level.

54)

PHOTO BY: Omar

Y. LUCK Check out our exclusive interview with this New Orleans’ artist to find out how he feels about the current state of hip-hop music and the significance behind his album #IH8RAP.

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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JUL / AUG 2017

DIGITAL ISSUE AVAILABLE NOW SUBSCRIBE TODAY FREE

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CONTENTS

REGULARS 12)

19)

JUL / AUG 2017

(cont.)

15 BAD HABITS THAT HINDER INDIE ARTISTS’ SUCCESS Find out why so many independent artist are unsuccessful in today’s industry and learn a few tips on how to turn things around. ‘ WORTH THE W8 See why these hot new highly anticipated records are creating such a buzz in the streets, and see why we feel like they are worth the wait.

22)

GEAR: MIC’D UP Check out our perspectives on the best microphones on the market for the indie artist on a budget.

23 )

TECH: IT’S ELECTRIC Check out some of the hottest new technology of 2017. See which gadgets are a “must have” items this year.

40)

VANTAGE POINT: MERCENARY CHRONICLES Check aout the next installment to the “Mercenary Chronicles” with comedian Mercenary B Williams.

43)

SNEAKER WAR Take a glance at our 4th of July inspired collage of some of the dopest sneaks we could find in red. white, and blue!

50)

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

52)

MONTHLY DOSE OF DOPE Taura Stinson as she shares her experiences in the music industry and gives valuable feedback to a few of today’s aspiring artists in the Monthly Dose of Dope.

64)

EVENTS Take a look behind the scenes on some of Shadow Promotions latest events. SoFNDope was there and next time you should be too.

68)

BADD ONES Get to know some of the girls from ‘round the way’. Beauty and brains, class and style are just a few of the characteristics these #baddones have to offer.

PHOTO BY: Kenny Groggins

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15 BAD HABITS TIPS

THAT HINDER INDIE ARTISTS’ SUCCESS

15.

T

PROCRASTINATION

oo often indie artists find themselves habitually waiting until the last minute to get things done. This is a sure shot way to keep your music career going nowhere … fast.

If you want to see results, you have to remain diligent and steadfast even when it seems like things are not moving fast enough.

14.

POOR WORK ETHIC You have to be willing to put in the “sweat equity” in order to reap the benefits of a successful career in music.

You have to be willing to do any and everything that the next artist isn’t willing to do.

You must be willing to make sacrifices, work hard , and learn to not take the easy way out. There is no quick way to get there. Nothing happens over night.

13.

SURROUNDED BY NEGATIVE PEOPLE Protect yourself from those who try to belittle your ambitions. Do not allow that negative energy to creep into your circle. Surround yourself with people that build you up and not tear you down. So many people remain unsuccessful in this industry simply because they give in to the negativity and fears of those who are small minded and cannot see

past the present.

12.

LIMITED SKILL SETS

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Don’t be a “one trick pony”. So many independent artists rely on others to complete their projects. Things like graphic design work, beats and production work, recording and mixing are all components of an overall project but can be quite expensive when you total up all the costs. I encourage indie artists to begin to learn some of those trades on your own and save yourself some money. Design your own cd cover, or invest in your craft and learn Pro Tools or Logic Pro and for your own recording and mixing. Do whatever you have to do t increase your value as an artist.

ARROGANCE There is a fine line between being cocky, and being confident. You have to be confident in this industry. It’s an attractive characteristic and the fans love it, however to many artist turn into premadonnas after they get their first little taste of success in the industry; thinking they are God’s gift to the world. This is the quickest way back to the bottom. In the words of Kung Fu Kenny.

“Be Humble”. You’ll go much farther.

B

ar none this is one of the best rap albums of 2017. I wish more artists would take the time to perfect their craft like this. Lyrically he’s superior to most people in the industry and the beats are crazy dope.

If you are a true fan of hip-hop, I recommend you go and pick up this album. From top to bottom it’s straight HEAT! R.I.P. SEAN PRICE

A+SEAN PRICE IMPERIUS REX

TIPS

10.

8.

Make the money… Don’t let the money make you! Focus on being the best “You” that you can be and the rest will fall in place. No need to try to keep up the next artist or boast about who has this or that. Material things will come and go and money creates more problems than some people can handle often times. So why not focus on perfecting your craft and let the money come to you.

Keep your mind clear. Especially when conducting business. Just because you’re in the club, doesn’t mean you aren’t working. Handle business first, and then celebrate, but not a minute before. There is a time and place for everything.

Notice I said “abuse”. Too much of anything isn’t good for you; especially alcohol or any other control substance for that matter. It’s best to stay away from it while working even if others around you are indulging.

FOCUSED ON MONEY AND NOT THE CRAFT

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MISUNDERSTANDING THE BUSINESS First and foremost, you have to understand that this is a business and that everyone is not your friend. Learn all the components first for yourself before you appoint others to manage your schedule, your money, or handle any of your affairs that concern you as an artist. This is a dog eat dog industry and someone is always trying to pull the wool over your eyes if you let them.

someone else. Don’t be afraid to be original. Originality is what instantly sets you apart from the next.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE

7.

UNFAITHFUL

A-

This album is crazy dope. Very unique. The production fits his style perfectly and we like the fact that Damar is raw & uncut.

2.

NOT PERFECTING THEIR CRAFT Many artists get to a certain level and they plateau. They stop working on the things that helped them achieve the level of success. So my advice is to be the best at what comes natural to you. If you are a rapper, then sharpen the skills that will help you they

4.

1.

Many artist miss out on their chance simply because the fold right at the finish line Once again, persistence is the key. You must keep going even when all those around you are slowing down. There

Stop worrying about what others think about you. It solves nothing.

Never get too comfortable with where you are in your career. Remember there is always someone out there trying to take your spot.

6.

PRETENDING TO BE SOMETHING YOU’RE ARE NOT

AI YOUNGBOY

Definitely something to ride to for the summer. Favorite joint is “No. 9” We dig it!

ROTIMI

JEEP MUSIC

B

We were already fans of Rotimi’s character on “Power” as Dre, but this puts a whole new spin on things. Definitely feeling this project. I wish it was longer that 8 songs though.

AFRAID OF WHAT OTHERS THINK

GETTING COMPLACENT

3.

NO TRAINING ON THE MUSIC BUSINESS

.

NEVER BROKE AGAIN

C-

Please stop blaming your short comings on something or someone else. Own up to your situation. Face the facts that you need to work harder on your show, or that you need to pay a professional for your mixing etc… The quicker you own up to your mistakes, the quicker you can go about making the adjustments.

NO PERSEVERANCE

It is so irritating seeing so many artists trying to be like DAMAR JACKSON

5.

MAKE EXCUSES

business. No one is in a hurry to teach you anything, You have to educate yourself about the industry. They are very stingy with information in this game.

Read some books. Take a class. Find a mentor who knows something about the industry. Be proactive about learning your craft and your KHALIL

PROVE IT ALL

B+

VIC MENSA

THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

A-

R&B has officially reinvented itself . This album is the epitome of the new wave of R&B artists to come. Dope new sound;

I really liked this album. He gave you “bars” on every track. and a full album of dope music, lyricism and punchlines. 15

dope lyrics. Very refreshing.

songs worth.

UGLY GOD

THE BOOTY TAPE

D-

Well, we had to see what all the hype was about. Still not impressed. “Not Hating”. “Just saying” ...

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ARTIST INTERVIEW

What we love about this artist is the fact that he never stops putting out new material. If you scroll down his Instagram feed, you’re going to get a seemingly never ending list of music from a variety of mixtapes.

This type of persistence and consistency is what we need more of in the game today. We were initially was captivated by a song of his we heard on Soundcloud called “Neva Change”. We immediately posted the song to our website and knew that we had to set up an interview with this artist. Check out this So FN Dope artist from Savannah, GA, Yung Damon.

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1LETTER st CANTON, MS

It is hard to find artists now days that aren’t always out for themselves. Whatever happened to the artists that spoke their minds, and spoke freely against the social injustices of this world we live in? The artist who would rather break the chains of bondage of our people rather than wear the iced out chains around their own necks. This next artist is one of these artists. He is extremely dynamic. When he speaks, you’ve got to feel him. It’s as if he has the voice of a giant in a 6 ft. frame… He is what you get when you combine Hip-hop with the wisdom of Malcolm, the mind of a scholar, and heart of a gangster and put it all on wax. Check out IG Entertainment’s 1$t Letter.

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S ARTIST INTERVIEW

FND MAG: What’s good 1$t Letter! We definitely appreciate you for taking time out your busy schedule to interview with us! Tell us about yourself. Where are you from?

1$t Letter: I’m from Canton, MS. SFND MAG: You have an interesting stage name. Give us the back-story on how you got the name 1$t Letter.

1$t Letter: Honestly, I got to thinking about the name when I found out that the legendary rapper Rakim had an album called “The 18th Letter”, which correlated with his name starting with R. My name starts with A, the first letter.

Plus, in academia, the letter A represents excellence, and that’s what I strive for in everything that I do.

SFND MAG: At what point in life did you become interested in being a rap artist?

1$t Letter: The MS music scene is dominated by Gospel and the Blues. If you’re an artist from MS in those genres, it’s like you’re certified. It’s kind of like being from Brooklyn, Compton, or Atlanta in the rap game. Folks automatically give you look. The artist that I know of who’ve made it from MS moved to places like Atlanta to get on. I’m trying to be different by utilizing the internet to run my business and touch the world from where I am.

SFND MAG: What do you think has set you apart from other artists out there?

1$t Letter: My complexity. My upbringing was complex, which is why I’m so complex. I was raised by my single mother in Canton, MS. My mother taught English for 40 years and stressed education.

However, my environment didn’t stress that. My environment stressed athletic achievement, being able to win fights, and being able to get women. I went to great schools, including college, but

competitive. When I hop on those beats, I want to show the world that I am just as good, if not better, than the rapper who released that song with the major label behind him. Secondly, I’m a fan of most of the songs I get on. Finally, as a businessman, it’s a smart move. It worked for Wayne as he built his brand with the Squad Up and Drought tapes. My plan is to build a strong following through my “One-A-Week” campaign on YouTube and drop my album in October.

SFND MAG: Let’s talk about your upcoming project? What can your listeners expect to get from this album?

r o w e h t w o h s r o t e t h n t a n a h t "I w , r e t a t l e r b o t j o a n m if e h t h t i w g n o s

1$t Letter: I’ve always been great at poetry. I still have raps and poems saved from as far back as middle school. Back then, I would pretend to be CEO of my own label and the featured artist like Master P or Hov. I wasn’t serious about it then. I was just having fun. I didn’t start pursuing this as a business venture until I met my homie Michael Welch (aka Blaque Magic) who is a producer and R&B artist himself. Ever since then, my friend and business partner Tim G. Jacob has been down with me.

We started our own label together since no one else would help us.

SFND MAG: So… tell us. What is the music scene like in Canton, MS?

my city is known for drug dealing. As I said in one of my rhymes, “I’m the product you get when you mix higher learning with hood shit.” I’ve been on the front lines helping young people, but I need to do more for my family and for my people. There’s no one in rap who shares my story and vision.

SFND MAG: We love the “One a Week” series you’ve been doing for the last few months. What inspired you to release your music like that?

1$t Letter: First of all, I am HIGHLY

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1$t Letter: The title of the album is “Redefine Real.” I’m trying to

revolutionize the culture. So many people in our culture equate being real with selling dope and being a street cat. My aim is to show that being real is actually being true to yourself, taking care of your family, and representing our people the right way. The realest motherfuckers ever to me were men like Ali, Malcolm X, Dr. King, and Marcus Garvey. They were charismatic and intelligent, but they were also FEARLESS. They all stood up to the government, who we all know can kill you and get away with it.

They didn’t give a fuck though.

They had goals, and they got shit done. That’s some real gangster

ARTIST INTERVIEW

, d o o g s a t s u j t m a a h I t t d a e h t s a d l e l r e r o h w r e ” p . m rap i h d n i h e b l abe .

ass shit to me, and that’s the kind of culture I’m trying to shape with my music while also being entertaining.

record.

SFND MAG: What is going to be the first single?

SFND MAG: Is there a release date for the project?

1$t Letter: The first single is “JEALOUSY,” which is out now. The song is just a real ass song in which I touch on a myriad of situations in which motherfuckers were hating on me. Just exposing the crab in a barrel mentality of our people in hopes to make that mindset so lame that people stop having it. That’s a real hard

1$t Letter: We’ll be dropping the album in October. My birthday is in October.

Instead of me giving myself something, I’m giving the world a gift.

SFND MAG: Give some sound advice to the next young artist coming up in Mississippi. What would you say to the

youngster that has his sights on the music industry?

1$t Letter: This is a business. Don’t treat this shit as something fun or even art.

Be an artistic BUSINESS person. This game is dirty as fuck so know your shit and don’t trust many. That’s been the hardest thing for us. Everyone who said they would help us didn’t really help us.

We did all the competitions and won them. We played politics with radio and DJs. But at the end of the day, this shit is about money. Have your bread right and invest in you. Anything you can do in

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"My aim is to show that being 'REAL' is actually being true to yourself, taking care of your family, and representing our people the right way."

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and be your own boss. That’s what we’re doing with IG Entertainment.

W A H T H T R O W

SFND MAG: How can your fans find you online?

1$t Letter: Anybody who fucks with that real should follow me on Twitter @1st_Realest and most definitely subscribe to my YouTube channel.

SFND MAG: Where can we locate your music online?

1$t Letter: Just search for 1$t Letter on YouTube and keep up with all new material.

"Be an

artistic BUSINESS person.

This game is dirty as f*#k so know your sh*t and don't trust many. "

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WORTH THE W8

hat can we say? He has done it again.

Jay-Z never ceases to amaze us all, not only with his dope music, but also with his ability to somehow remind his hip-hop counterparts that they are still not quite on his level. This album clearly draws the line in the sand showing why he is different from the rest and a true a hip-hop mogul. As always, a Jigga album is definitely worth the wait.

You have to admit. Meek’s last couple of years has been rough. Between the rap beefs and the break-up with rap icon Nicki Minaj, I must say that it for a second there it did not look like he was going to bounce back. However, this album definitely proves that it is going to take more than a couple diss tracks and a bad relationship to take him out of the game. Hats off to Meek Mills for this record, “Wins and Losses.” It was worth the wait for sure.

It is so refreshing to know that artist like this still exist. “Songversation” is a true work of art. India Arie definitely did not drop the ball on this album. In fact, she seem to pick right back up where she left off with the same soulful sultry sounds reminiscent of her past work. Neo-Soul isn’t dead ya’ll. Thank you India Arie for this amazing project. It was definitely worth the wait.

We have followed Khalil for the last couple of albums, and although the last couple of projects were good, there something a little more special about this one. I cannot quite out my finger on it, but I think it is because there are no features on this entire album. It just feels a lot more personal. Whatever it is. Keep doing it. This project was truly worth the wait.

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RODRAEL

S

OAKLAND , CA FND MAG: Wuz good Rodrael!!! Definitely appreciate you for taking time out your schedule to interview with us.

SFND MAG: Tell us a little about yourself.

Where are you from?

RODRAEL: I’m a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) singer, songwriter, and educator/youth advocate. I’m a Californian from the Bay Area. Currently, I am a high school teacher in Oakland.

SFND MAG: How long have you been writing and performing music?

RODRAEL: I have been performing and writing music for about ten years. I studied creative writing at a performing arts school called Oakland School of The Arts

(OSA). I had a secret passion for singing and would record myself on my computer. Eventually, I started to combine my love for singing with writing, and started recording those ideas in the studio. Ten years of practice and hard work, I continued to grow, record, study music and voice, and cultivate my sound.

SFND MAG: We had a chance to check out some of your music from your debut EP “Show Em”. Your new video “Any Second “ is SO FN DOPE! What was your inspiration behind this particular record? on?

RODRAEL: “Any Second” is an autobiographical song about my journey pursuing music in the last ten years. It starts off with me talking about who I was at 17. Back then, I imitated artists like Usher and Aaliyah and practiced their dance moves. Simultaneously, I would do a cappella covers of Musiq and Donell

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Jones on my computer.

The second verse talks about me chasing my dreams without regrets. Ultimately, I am saying that I want to be remembered for my music. I want to leave this earth knowing I put my energies into making my dreams come true.

Last, this is an anthem for dreamers. At one point in the song I call out rappers, dancers, musicians, athletes, and scholars to chase their dreams no matter their circumstances or adversities.

SFND MAG: In what other ways do you hope to inspire those who hear your music.

RODRAEL: I hope to inspire listeners to never give up on their authentic dreams.

I hope to inspire listeners to push forward.

SFND MAG: Is there a release date for your project?

SFND MAG: Tell us about your project EP? RODRAEL: Show Em EP is my first official project.

The “Show Em EP” is a body of musical work about resiliency and fight at heart, and also dis-

underestimated, and misunderstood.

The EP is my story and equally about the communities I grew up in. It’s for black and brown communities, growing up in socio-economically and historically marginalized communities.

'I hope to inspire listene rs to never give u p on the ir authen tic dream s' cusses issues like police brutality, domestic violence, and spirituality.

Tracks like “One By One” are dedicated to the many black lives that were killed in 2016 due to police brutality.

Whereas, “Deserve That” is about the women I know who have experienced mental and physical violence in their relationships with men.

Also, this project is for folks who feel isolated, or feel like they don’t have a place in this world. It’s about showing folks “your cards” even when you are the most vulnerable,

.

SFND MAG: So we had a chance to do a little research on you Rodrael. We see that you have worked closely with some major record companies in the past. Tell us a little about that and how those experiences have shaped your perspective about the music industry.

RODRAEL: I was an intern at Universal Music Group (UMG)/Hidden Beach Experiences in LA. I learned that the music industry is about being creative and flexible. As

ARTIST INTERVIEW

the industry changes, both creative and industry folks have to continue to collaborate and strategize ways to make monies as the tech industry leads new trends.

Additional, I learned that major labels no longer have as much power and or resources. Because of social media, Soundcloud, YouTube, and streaming servicesindependent artists have more autonomy then they once had in the 1990s and prior.

online?

SFND MAG: What is your perspective on the Major vs Indie debate? Do you think that in this day and age that signing a major record deal is necessary to be successful in the music industry?

SFND MAG: Rodrael, Thank you once again for interviewing with us. We look forward to seeing and hearing much from you in the future.

RODRAEL: IG: Rodrael_music Soundcloud: Rodrael YouTube: Rodrael_Music Also, you can purchase my music on iTunes and listen on ALL popular streaming services.

SFND MAG: How can we find your debut EP “Show Em” online?

RODRAEL: ALL popular streaming services!

RODRAEL: Thank you SoFNDope Magazine!

RODRAEL: I think that a major label can fiscally help an indie artist. As an indie artist, it can be really difficult to fund recording, producing, mixing, mastering, media, press, and music video costs.

As a DIY artist, these are things that I fund myself as I maintain several jobs outside of music in order to continue to pursue my dream. Overall, there are many talented indie artists that don’t have the resources to distribute and promote their music.

Dually, I think that it’s beautiful that the indie artist has freedom, control and ability to compete with an artist on a major label. Today, social media allows for indie artists to become as popular as signed artists. Thus, I think that signing to a major label isn’t necessary. That being said, an indie artist needs a solid team and a thorough understanding of the music industry.

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MIC’d UP

GEAR

BEST “SANG” FOR YOUR BUCK

W

hen you’re shopping for new microphones, you’ll encounter a wide variety of mic types spanning a vast range of prices.

With so many specs and features associated with the hundreds of available models; finding a quality mic can be extremely confusing.

It’s generally true that a mic’s price reflects the quality of the sound it’s capable of reproducing. However, a little research will show you there are plenty of reasonably priced mics that are capable of performing to a very high standard. In fact, many of the mic’s on this list copy the basic structures of microphones that much more high end. Understanding how various types of microphones funcIn home studio circles, some might call it the “Holy Grail of Vocal Mics“…

Because for under $1000, the Neumann TLM 102 is about as good as it gets. With its extraordinarily compact design but its ability to handle extreme SPLs makes the TML a truly versatile microphone. The TML gives true meaning to “dynamite comes in small packages”.

1

For vocals, nothing beats the warm vintage sound of a tube mic.

So on a list of the top mics for recording vocals there has to be a tube mic.The dilemma is most tube mics are very expensive. There are a few exceptions.

Under $700, there’s none better than the Rode NTK. With an ultra-wide dynamic range, low noise, and stunning tube warmth the NTK is the most ideal choice.

UNDER 400$ While not traditionally thought of as a “vocal mic”…

The Sennheiser MD421 is widely regarded as the “Best All-Around Dynamic Mic” around.

It’s great on vocals, But also does much more ….It’s works on electric guitar, drums, bass, percussion, and almost anything you can think of. So if versatility is what you want. This mic is highly recommended.

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UNDER 300$ In the World of dynamic microphones the Shure SM7B is one of the few options SPECIFICALLY tailored for vocals.

Whether your work requires broadcasting or studio singing the Shure SM7B is built tough, gives a great sound and reliable performance.

UNDER 250$ When it comes to mid-priced vocal mics, Rode Microphones are the best of the best. That’s why the Rode NT1A is only the first of two condenser mics on this list.

In the category of “Best Cheap Vocal Mics“, it’s a favorite.

The combination of price, sound quality, and overall reputation make this mic the obvious choice for your first vocal mic.

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I know I know UNDER 100$ mics get a bad rap and the most common complaint large diaphragm condenser mics are way to expensive.

To be honest while that’s MOSTLY true…. lol , there are rare exceptions. There’s a handful of mics whose quality exceeds the modest price tag.

And of that small group, there’s none more affordable, and more respected than the Audio-Technica AT2020.

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ON THE VERGE

CHARLIE MUSCLE

SACRAMENTO, CA

In this industry, now days you may have noticed that often times it is not about talent anymore. The game has changed. Social media followers and internet popularity nearly has taken over completely. No one wants to take chances anymore. It’s like “hard work “is a thing of the past. Fortunately, all is not lost, this next artist certainly knows the meaning of hard work, and he demonstrates it through his complex rhymes schemes and intricate rhythmic style of rap. His impeccable delivery is second to none and in our eyes, this places him with the elite when it comes to his elaborate style writing. After seeing him spit a verse on the Team Back Pack cipher we were fully convinced that he is one of Sacramento dopest rappers. However, that is just our opinion. We will let you be the judge. Introducing the one and only Charlie Muscle!

PHOTO BY: Jason

Sinn

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S ON THE VERGE

FND MAG: What’s good brother!

Definitely appreciate you for taking time out your schedule to interview with us. We’ve been trying to set this interview up for a while now and now we are finally getting it done.

SFND MAG: We must admit you have one of the dopest stage names out right now… Where did you get the name “Charlie Muscle”?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: What’s going on fam? I appreciate you taking the time to interview me and allow me to express myself on your platform. It has been a long time coming. Glad we could make it happen.

SFND MAG: As far as your music goes, what is the back-story of how you got in the rap game?

SFND MAG: Before we get started we wanted to give you an opportunity to introduce who you are and where you representing?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: Well, of course we are already acquainted [laughs], but for those who don’t know who I am, my name is Charlie Muscle. I was born and raised in Sacramento, California, and still hold the city on my shoulders to this day.

PHOTO BY: Joha Harrison of

CHARLIE MUSCLE: Well, “Charlie” is my childhood nickname. Short for Charleston. I endure a lot of struggles in my life, more often than not and it’s taken a lot to overcome most of those battles.

So, I’ve somehow gathered the strength, courage, and passion to drive forward… even when it’s said that I shouldn’t and because I continue to gather those same traits, Muscle was necessary!

CHARLIE MUSCLE: When I was a young child, maybe around seven or eight, I would go through hard depression. I wasn’t the dumbest or smartest kid, but the pressure was still there to be the best I could, but in trade of that, I felt I had no outlet for my anger and depression. So, I talked to my cousin David (RIP) about my problems. I always looked to my elders for guidance on what to do. His advice… write it down in a journal. So… I did. For years, I would pen my thoughts into different composition books, hoping to one-day break free from my mental hell! After using

Caravan Film Crew

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several methods to evolve my journal writing and watching my family blossom into a musical village so to speak, it grew on me to reform my journal entries into verses at the age of 13. I didn’t lay down any vocals, but my pen kept jotting! At 16, I layed down my first verse, after all that practice, and from there, I’ve been growing strong ever since.

SFND MAG: It’s funny how we kind of stumbled upon your music one day. I was browsing Youtube and I came across a 2015 TeamBackpack cypher, and was completely blown away by the verse you spit. I must have listened to it like five times in a row. It was so dope. Everything about it was just unbelievable. Your rhyme, articulation, and impeccable timing… I was just tripping on how dope it was. Did you receive a lot of recognition from that particular Cypher? How so?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: [Laughs] Thank you man! Yeah, I STILL get love from that cypher! It’s a trip to me. I always feel like I have no one who will take a chance to listen to what I have to say. In the matter of 2 years, I’ve performed with countless legends, I’ve established a fan base from my own footwork in this game, I’ve met SOOOO many loving and caring people, and the list goes on for days, but the best part of it all is it gave me an audience willing to hear what I have to say!

ON THE VERGE

PHOTOS BY: Joha Harrison of

Caravan Film Crew

SFND MAG: How is the music scene like in Sacramento, CA? CHARLIE MUSCLE: Sketchy to say the least [laughs]. Not to discredit anyone or anything, but from my stand point, I’d see more success from doing nothing. It’s almost like that everywhere, you know?

Each city has its good and bads. In my case specifically, the good would be the amount of togetherness you can see within the city when it’s there. The bad definitely outweighs the good. The bad is more the “Late-To-The-Party” effect.

It takes time to grow ANYWHERE! But, it’s hurtful when you do so much to be supported by those in your hometown, but won’t get it until another city or another country fucks with you first. And… of course there is more than myself who I represent when I say this; Just give our city the same love you would give to ANY one of your favorite celebrities and watch the magic as we become unstoppable, but you only hurt your city where you don’t support your city… Hence, the reason I’m still here. I love my city… good or bad!

SFND MAG: We recently had an opportunity to come to one of your performances at the Blue Lamp in Sacramento.

Your show was definitely lit. What is the best part about getting on that stage and performing your music for your support-

ers?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: For me, it has to be the faces. Most of the people already have in their mind what kind of artist I am or what kind of music I will perform before I even hit the stage, and I love it! I get to see the taunts, the hatred, the doubt. I even get to watch people walk away just as I prepare to even introduce myself. But as soon as the beat starts, we sync like the ticks of a metronome and proceed to blow them away! By the third song EVERY TIME, I am watching the smiles of those same faces, peering through the LED flash on their phones; and to know that once I’m done feeling embarrassed and get off stage [laughs] someone heard me! Like really heard me!

SFND MAG: For someone who has maybe never been to a Charlie Muscle show, what can they expect to see at one of your sets?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: One thing to definitely expect is lyricism! I don’t have a hype man. I don’t have my backtracks on all my music. You will see raw, uncut talent that you’re free to criticize, once you’ve heard it all.

SFND MAG: Do you have any current projects available or that you’re working on?

“If you aren’t going to use your time and energy to say ‘something’, then why speak to the public? You got homies for all of that!.”

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ON THE VERGE

"Remember who helped you get out the mud when it wasn't their job or main priority, and did it anyway!"

-CHARLIE MUSCLE

PHOTO BY: Jason

Sinn

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..

ON THE VERGE

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ON THE VERGE

@Official_CharlieMuscle

PHOTO BY: Jason

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Sinn

ON THE VERGE CHARLIE MUSCLE: I do. I don’t want to put too much out there on it though.

I want to push my music without a platform, but when it does drop, the people will know why I’m taking this route.

SFND MAG: Is there a release date for the project?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: I’ve got the projection for August sometime, hoping all comes back in order.

SFND MAG: Give some sound advice to the next young artist coming up in Sac. What would you say to the youngster that has his sights on the music industry?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: My advice to the next young artist is remember why AND how you started this path. If you aren’t going to use your time and energy to say something, then why speak to the public?

You got homies for all of that! And on that note, remember who helped you get out the mud when it wasn’t their job or main priority… and did it anyway!

Nobody started this for you to end it…

It’s for us to have a voice FOR our pain… for our people! It’s okay to celebrate for good reasons, but what are YOU niggas celebrating though?

SFND MAG: Where can your fans and supporters find you online?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: The best ways to contact me is through Facebook at www. facebook.com/CharlieMuscle or on Instagram @Official_CharlieMuscle SFND MAG: How can we locate your music online?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: In all honesty, I still believe in old ways. You can find some of my tracks at http://CharlieMuscle.Bandcamp.combut it’s better to just shoot me a message for hard copies when I have them. I don’t mind the resources. I mind their fees.

SFND MAG: Charlie Muscle, We thank you once again for taking the time to interview with us. It’s been our pleasure, but before you go, we want to ask you one more question. Could you name one other artist out there that you think is So FN Dope and why?

CHARLIE MUSCLE: The Pleasure is all mine! Like I said before, I truly appreciate the opportunity to sit with you guys and have this interview. As far as one more artist I feel is So FN Dope is The Philharmonik! That dude is not from Earth [laughs]!!! In all severity, this dude has MAAAD skills. Not just as an artist, but as a COMPOSER as well. I know a lot of cats doing beats now a days, and that’s cool, but I want to make it really clear when I say that Sacramento better support him now, because he’s WELL on his way to success… I can feel it…. and I SUPPORT HIM WHOLEHEARTEDLY

PHOTO BY: Jason

Sinn

'One thing to definitely expect is lyricism!'

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COREY

FINESSE BROOKLYN, NY

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

This next artist is arguably one of the most exciting independent artists on the scene right now. His ability to create music that consistently resonates with the streets is a true indicator of a star in the making.

His stories are so vivid and he paints pictures of his life. His “Life After 9” to be more precise. Ya’ll check out one of Brooklyn’s finest, Nu La Entertainment’s .........Corey Finesse.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW FND MAG: Corey Finesse. What’s good homie? We want to thank you for interviewing with So FN Dope Magazine.

COREY FINESSE: GLLLLLLLLLLLLLTTTTTTTTTTTT! We here! Vagabond! We here … You know! Corey Finesse … We in the building. Nu La… Wassup!

COREY FINESSE: I mean, Trap Soul. I would describe my style as Trap Soul… very versatile. I got the turn up too you know but I feel like I’m a jack-of-alltrades. I do Pop… Reggae, whatever they want. They just hear the turn up right now, you know they hear the Vagabond”… What they want! That’s what they want to hear right now, but you know I got everything. I’m coming soon… They’re going hear me.

SFND MAG: Speaking of your style, we heard one of your latest records, and the vibe was crazy, and the video is fire.

Definitely a banger

SFND MAG: We are definitely glad to have you. How have you been?

COREY FINESSE: I been great.

Ya’ll see it. You know… My numbers going up. I’m doing good.

We moving. Nu La! SFND MAG: Man! I have to tell you that since the moment we came across your music we’ve been instant fans man. You definitely have some dope material.

Tell us how long you been rapping and how did you initially get started in the music industry?

COREY FINESSE: I was rapping since nine years old actually. Well rapping… honestly… eleven years old.

I recorded my first song when at nine years old. I was singing first. You know and how I got in the music industry.

Honestly, what could I say; when GS9 got started that was my first introduction as Zoe God. I was featured on the “Shmoney Shmurda” Mixtape you know. They knew my name from then. That’s when I was going crazy. That’s when I just started but this is the reintroduction…

Nu La. I turned a chapter. I turned a page in my life. We here now. WE HERE!!! Nu La . WE here!!!

SFND MAG: For someone who has never heard your music before, how do you think you would you describe your style to them?

for the summer. You even did a little bit of singing on that “Waste My Time” joint too, which has been on repeat on my playlist for weeks now by the way. Very dope record! Do you sing on many of your other records or was that just how the beat made you feel at the time?

COREY FINESSE: Oh yea “Waste My Time,” that’s a hit. Well, I feel like they all hits but you know… “Waste My Time”, I love that song. I just dropped that shit.

Shout to REVOLT too. They show a lot love. They premiered it before I dropped it, so shout out to them but yea, “Waste My Time” that’s my single off my new

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tape that I just dropped. “Life After 9”.

Nah… like I told ya’ll. I started out singing .I recorded my first song at nine years old, so I sing a lot. I prefer to sing I’m not going to lie, but you know I got to give them the rapping because you know they know me as “Zoe God” , “Vagabond”, where I started at, well , that’s where I started for them.

SFND MAG: Let’s talk a little about your album “Life After 9.” How did that project come about?

COREY FINESSE: “Life After 9.” It speaks for itself honestly; my life after nine years old. I recorded my song when I at nine years old, and where I’m from.

Ya’ll know where I’m from the “9.”

Brooklyn, East Flatbush “NineFifth and Clarkson” baby. That should make it a little more interesting, knowing my background, where I’m from, and my story. That’s all it is. All my music is my story. I turn my pain into motivation and I make sure ya’ll hear me.

Ya’ll “gonna” hear me one-way or the other you know.

SFND MAG: Definitely was feeling the entire album by the way. I really like “Count It Up,” “Don’t Wait For Me “and of course “Waste My Time”joint. If you had to choose one, what record would you say is your favorite off that album and why?

COREY FINESSE: Ummm… I would say. “Waste My Time” honestly. I’m for the ladies. I show a lot of versatility on that track. So yea, I would say “Waste My Time” is my favorite out of those three.

SFND MAG: Obviously, your fan base is increasing rapidly and you are gaining notoriety in the business. What are your plans as an artist as opportunities continue to present themselves to you?

COREY FINESSE: I mean… I’m going to keep dropping more music. You know I’ve got to continue to being consistent.

Sometimes it’s good and bad for you to

do o t g n i go m ’ I , t s ts i s t i r t a r a n t a wha r o “So as , o d keep rtists o a t t g a n h i w go m ’ I . o d should music and ng droppi they’ll lly hopefu e.” hear m

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

@coreyfinesse

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW continue dropping music. Sometimes you have to let a song marinate, but then it’s like its good for you to be consistent as well because they’ve got to keep seeing your face. So as an artist, I’m going to do what artists do, or what artists should do.

I’m going to keep dropping music and hopefully they’ll hear me.

SFND MAG: Do you feel that signing with a major label is necessary at this point , or do you feel like you would fair out better as an independent artist?

COREY FINESSE: I mean… signing with a major label is good of course because you’re going to be heard, but either way…

I’m going to get heard because Nu La, we moving right now. Our music is speaking and everything is organic. We building this from the ground up. So I’m not going to lie, we good independent right. We’re not here for the money . We’re in

it for the long run. I’m lit right now. Nu La is lit. We got Howie DoDat too. We’ve got to get Howie DoDat on the same page. Then maybe we can speak to them when Nu La is big. ; we on billboards and they know us... Nu La on Tee shirts.

Everywhere. The next step is… As soon as faces are everywhere, that’s when I feel like we should move on to a major label.

Right now, we are good independent. We don’t need none of that. We not here for that.

SFND MAG: So, we follow you on Instagram and from the looks of it, man you definitely know how to enjoy life. What’s a typical day like for you? Give us a quick rundown in a day in the life of Corey Finesse.

COREY FINESSE: Oh yea. I definitely know how to enjoy life. I know my Instagram is a little crazy. They see me doing a lot on my Instagram, sucking titties. It gets crazy! It gets real rated R on my Instagram., but a typical day I be chillin for the most part. I really like to stay at the crib. That’s the funny thing.

You know my producers, we make music.

The camera man… we just make movies in the house, but I go out at night. You know I hit the clubs I’ll hit up a couple of the dogs. I’ll go see what the stars are doing. I’ll go hit up Casanova or somebody and go see what they dealing with, have one or two drinks, because I drink but I be in the crib. I might as well go outside sometimes and let them see my face. The most I do is record. We work a lot. We overwork ourselves because we’re not where we want to be yet. We haven’t reached those goals yet. I love music.

SFND MAG: You’ve made quite a name for yourself. We’ve seen you on YouTube doing several major radio interviews and packed out shows etc. We even saw you spitting a fire verse on air with Funk Flex.

COREY FINESSE: FLEX… yea. FLEX… Yea … I tore that down. Shout out o FLEX too. I went up there. My fan base grew a lot since I went to Flex.

SFND MAG: On your road to success have you hit any bumps in the road, so far? Well, let me rephrase. Are there any mistakes that you’ve made so far that you would encourage other up and coming

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

"You're going to lose a lot of relationships on the way of your success. That's my advice to artists... Don't get side tracked."

-COREY FINESSE

artist to try to avoid?

COREY FINESSE: Of course. Well my advice to artists is. ”Don’t get side tracked.” They’re going to lose a lot of people… You’re going to lose a lot of relationships on the way of your success.

That’s my advice to artists.. Don’t get side tracked. Don’t fall into it. Don’t let your emotions get in the way to success. Don’t let anything get in the way of it. You’re going to have a lot of distractions you know, but our situation is what makes us. I lost a lot of friends on my journey, but I’m still here. I’m still growing. It’s growing pains at the end of the day. That’s my advice so.

SFND MAG: If you could change anything up to this point in your career or do anything over what would it be?

COREY FINESSE: I ain’t gonna lie. I always said that if I could do something over again; I would’ve focused on my singing a little more when I was younger.

Focus on my music a little more when I was younger. I mean I did, for the most part but I was in the streets still. That’s another reason I don’t take it back, because I wouldn’t have a story to tell. I really don’t have an answer for ya’ll on that one. I really wouldn’t have a story to tell. I wouldn’t have so much to talk about, so I really can’t regret that.

SFND MAG: When you’re not creating your own music, what other artists do you listen to?

COREY FINESSE: I don’t know… I like music.

I love music. I really don’t have a specific artist I listen to. I listen to all kinds of music. I listen to Howie DoDat. I listen to us for the most part. Nu La. I listen to myself a lot, but I don’t really have a specific person, I listen to a lot of music.

SFND MAG: Who has been some of your biggest musical influences over the years? Name three artists that shaped and molded you into the artist you are today.

COREY FINESSE: Jamie Fox, because that was like the person I was listening to.

Eminem... I love Eminem. He spits that pain music. It’s raw and he’s telling a lot of stories too. And… Me… myself. My struggle influences me. I’m only being honest with you.

SFND MAG: What is next for Corey Finesse? Any other future endeavors other than rap?

COREY FINESSE: Oh yea, I want to act too. That’s the next step. It’s not just about music. but don’t get me wrong. I love my music. Music is first, but I going to do this acting cause you know they call me “Shmorris Chestnut” You see me… Look

at me…My scarf on… I don’t care. I’m out here. I know I look good on camera.

It ain’t a camera without the Zoe God on it. I’m “Smhorris Chesnut” when the camera comes on. Look at me! [ LAUGHS] Also just influencing the kids, and people that come from where I come from. It’s going to be crazy . Just stay tuned. I ‘ve got a lot coming. This whole thing is bigger than music.

SFND MAG: [LAUGHS] That’s hella funny! How can your fans reach you on social media?

COREY FINESSE: They can reach me everywhere. Ya’ll can reach me on social media. GOOGLE me man. Zoe God. Google go search. Type in Corey Finesse in on Instagram. C. O. R. E. Y. F. I. N.E.S.S. E. It’s spelled regular, but nothing about me is regular. You see me.

Yaaah my chains, you know I’m on Spotify. I’m on iTunes. I’m everywhere!

SFND MAG: Once again, thank you so much Corey for interviewing with us. It has been a pleasure .We definitely wish you much success and look forward to seeing you at the top.

COREY FINESSE: GLLLLLLLLLLLLTTTTTTTTTT! I appreciate Ya’ll for having me man...

Nu La, we here. Shout out to So FN DOPE…....................Gang!

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VANTAGE POINT

s e l c i n o r h C y r a n e c r e M WITH

Merc B

I

’m so excited to tell you guys about this, so I’m just going to jump into it, AND I’m behind on the deadline, and they’re going to fire me if I don’t hurry up and get this submitted, so yeah, here it goes![LAUGHS] So back in May I’m scrolling down my Face book news feed and I run across this flyer/advertisement saying that Kevin Hart’s “Hart Of The City” is planning to have auditions right here in Jackson, MS! I had to call and text a few people to confirm the truth of this because you know stuff like this doesn’t normally happen in or come to Mississippi. I mean lots of people don’t even know that we do comedy here, let alone that some of the funniest comedians that you’ve seen nationally are from right here in the Sip. So after struggling with my self-doubt (because that happens), and getting a “nice nasty” pep talk from my lady I decide that hey, I’m going to audition and see what happens. I mean I really didn’t have anything to lose to be honest with you. They were either going to say yes or no. Now of course I don’t like rejection at all, hell nobody does, but you don’t want to hear Kevin Hart tell you “Hey man you didn’t make it [LAUGHS]. But either way I decided to prepare and give it my best shot and see where the chips fall. That’s a word right there. There is immense power in a “try.” When you “try” it at least leads to a “know” and when you “know” better then you’ll “do” better in whatever capacity.

Written by: Mercenary B. Williams

tions and from those cities, four comedians are chosen to showcase that city.

It’s an amazing platform for comedians that may be extremely hilarious but don’t have a way to get exposure nationally.

The show airs on the Comedy Central network and Season 1 was amazing!

Like you should go back and watch it!

Seriously!

So back to the auditions... The auditions were open to comedians currently living in Mississippi or originally from Mississippi but you had to have some Mississippi roots to be eligible! I mean between both auditions there were some extremely funny people! Just to name the talent in the building you had Comediennes Rita Brent and Toya Free representing the ladies to the fullest! Comedians Nardo Blackmon, Ben Compton, Whodi, Jamie Arrington and a host of others and that was just on ONE audition! On my audition, which was held at MikeTown Comedy Club, Jackson’s First Comedy Club, you had the club’s owner Mike Townsend, Comedian Q, Deveron

For those of you who aren’t familiar with “Hart Of The City” it’s the creation of Kevin Hart and Comedian/Writer/ Producer Joey Wells. What they do is they go from city to city holding audi-

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Dennis, Vonta Young, Dangerous D., Comedian Silk, JB, and J. Fizzle, and we haven’t even gotten to little ole me yet!

[LAUGHS] In total, 40 comedians auditioned between two auditions! That’s a lot of STIFF competition but I couldn’t have been more proud that day to be a part of the comedy community here in Mississippi. Like we finally had arrived and people were noticing that not only do we have actual comedy here but the people we have here are funny as hell!

My audition couldn’t have gone any better than I imagined it. I’m always my worst critic I would never say I killed a set but that night I KILLED THAT SHIT!!! I showed up in the tightest suit I could find in my closet (literally the tightest) and gave it all I had. When it was done I was satisfied. Whether I had been chosen or not I was okay because I felt like I gave myself the best chance I could have given me. That’s another word. Always put your best foot forward. Always.

Like don’t half ass anything in this life!

And that’s what I did. Then I went home

VANTAGE POINT

Merc B. and Kevin Hart

everywhere in the coming weeks. I’m really close friends with some of the comedians and we would call or text each other to see if any of us had heard anything and of course nothing. I mean I honestly didn’t think I’d make it. The comedians there were funny as hell and they had more stand up experience than I had, so I was starting to get worried.

I mean I was okay if I wasn’t chosen but I certainly wanted to know just like everybody else.

So I’m leaving the gym on a Wednesday, dog-tired and everything and my phone rings and it’s a California number.

Immediately I thought “This must be a bill collector; I’m not picking this up.”

But something told me to answer this call. I answer the phone and it’s Joey Wells calling to tell me I was chosen to be on Season 2 of Hart Of The City! Man I literally had to pull over on the side of the road because I was so excited! Like me? Little old me? Skinny, funny looking kid from the Mississippi Delta is going to be on NATIONAL TELEVISION! Can’t believe it y’all! If you’d have told me back in 2009 when I picked up a microphone that this is where I’d be today I would’ve laughed at you hysterically! I guess the joke was on me in the end and I’m totally okay with that! Y’all share that and catch ya boy on Comedy Central’s “Kevin Hart Presents: Hart Of The City” in the fall! Y’all share that! Stay up! Stay blessed! Stay free!

"Always put your best foot forward.

Always...

Like, don't half- ass anything in this life!"

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1. NIKE AIR MAX 2. Air Jordan I HEIRESS 3. Air Jordan RETRO LOWS XI 4. NIKE KOBE MAMBAS 5. NIKE AIR MORE TEMPO 6. NIKE HUARACHE 7. AIR JORDAN IV PURE MONEY 8. AIR JORDAN XII BARONS 9. Air Jordan VII PURE PLATINUM 10. SB BLAZER MID WKND 11. ADIDAS YEZZY BOOST

RED

1. AIR JORDAN XIII 2. NIKE AIR FOAMPOSITE 3. GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI BIREL MATTE RED 4. NIKE ROSHE ONE 5. ADIDAS STAN SMITH 6. NIKE AIR MAX 1 7. NIKE AIR YEZZY 2 8. AIR JORDAN V

BLUE

1. ADIDAS TUBULAR INVADER 2. ADIDAS TUBULAR INVADER 3. PUMA CLYDE PACKER 4. ADIDAS Y-3 QASA HIGH 5. SUPRA SKYTOP BLUE VELVET 6. NIKE BLAZER MID METRIC

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Ta 44 - SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM - JUL/AUG 2017

auzha CHICAGO, IL It is not easy for independent artists to make a name for themselves, especially in larger cities like, L.A., New York, or Chicago, that is why it is so refreshing to see this next artist making her mark in the Windy City. Check out Tauzha, the hottest new female rapper out straight out of Chi-Town.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

FND MAG: Tauzha! How you doing? First of all we just want to say how much we appreciate you doing this interview with us. After hearing some of your music, it was a “no brainer.” We were like we’ve got to reach out to her for an interview” IMMEDIATELY! [LAUGHS] No question about it!

TAUZHA: “Hey wassup.” Thank you for reaching out.

"I'm in my own lane creating my own wave really starting from the bottom."

SFND MAG: So let’s jump straight in to the interview! Tell us a little about yourself. Where you from?

TAUZHA: I was born and raised in Chicago. (Westside) [LAUGHS] Music has always been a part of who I am. I’ve been doing music since the age of eight. I started off singing than transitioned to rap.

SFND MAG: How long have been rapping? At what point did you decide that you were going to try and take it to the next level?

TAUZHA: Well, I’ve always played around with rapping. I think I had like maybe a rap or two in my songs when I was singer, [LAUGHS] but I began to take it serious once I did the so gone challenge on Facebook. That went viral, so my dad was like “Yo!!! Let’s see what’s to this rapping. [LAUGHS] So, I’ve been rapping for about a year... seriously.

SFND MAG: I can’t lie. I love what I’m hearing from the Chicago music scene right now. There seems to be a lot more activity lately. There are so many talented artists out there especially on the independent side of the game. What is it like to be a rapper in Chicago right now in 2017 and how do you distinguish yourself from others trying to come up in the game right now as well?

TAUZHA: I feel like it’s hard period; not only coming from Chicago, but everywhere, because I’m actually grinding doing everything I can to stay in people faces and yes it hard coming

from Chicago because people in Chicago is all for themselves, so I gotta work extra hard to get my name out here. I distinguish myself because I know who I am and who I’m doing it for. This ain’t a competition. I’m in my own lane creating my own wave really starting from the bottom. This is nothing. I woke up and decided to do this has been my dreams since I was eight; so the passion is here; the love for the music and culture is here.

SFND MAG: So, things have continued to progress for you. You’ve be rocking the crowds at sold out venues, doing shows with some pretty big name artists. We heard you recently did a show with Waka Flocka. I bet that was DOPE!!! What was it like for you when you get on a stage in front of a huge crowd of screaming fans?

Do you still get a little nervous?

TAUZHA: Yes… Opening up for Waka was super dope! The crowd was amazing! I was nervous before I hit the stage, but once I got on stage,” I killed it”! The butterflies disappeared because I know who I’m doing it for. I was destined for this shit.

SFND MAG: Let’s shift gears a bit and talk about you most recent project “5 Rings.” What was the inspiration behind this project, and what is the significance of the title?

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TAUZHA: My father is my inspiration behind 5 rings. I am telling a story…

“HIS STORY”. I’m my daddy son. I’m his junior. [LAUGHS] To sum it up my whole album is a tribute to my daddy. In my eyes, he got multiple championships.

I feel like he Kobe so he got five rings. “A person with 5 rings gone make sure the team eat because they know how to win”.

SFND MAG: We saw the visual for 5 Rings and we must say that it was very well put together to say the least! It was sexy, flashy, but also sleek and fashionable. Who directed the video?

TAUZHA: Thank you. I love this video, and his name is NOYZ with Graviti Films. He’s super dope and he’s from Chicago as well.

SFND MAG: Should we expect any more visuals from the mixtape? What can we look forward to next?

TAUZHA: No more visuals, but you all can look up my other videos. Right now I’m just working and grinding. I’ve been in the studio non-stop. Several projects are completed. I’m just working trying to build my fan base up and upcoming shows, guest appearances you name it, in the future

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

"I distinguish myself because I know who I am and who I'm doing it for. This ain't a competition ." .

-TAUZHA

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

" Music has always been a part of who I am."

-TAUZHA

SFND MAG: So far, we’ve heard a couple joints on the mixtape. I’ve personally listened to 5 Rings and Blew a Bag and I really like them both. What song do you feel you relate to the most on the mixtape and why?

TAUZHA: 5 Rings because I just want to see my team win. My father has risked and sacrificed so much for his family, team and for me to be doing what I’m doing. Long nights we sat up talked and plotted trying to figure this business out

and on how we gone come up and how we gone make it.

SFND MAG: When you’re not in the studio or on the road. What other types of things do you like to do when you’re not working?

TAUZHA: Well, if I’m not in the studio I’m with my family and daughter. I am a full time mother so that’s a full time job.

[LAUGHS] I write freestyles so I can stay current so most of my time goes to my daughter and writing.

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SFND MAG: What is your ultimate goal, say in the next 3 years or so? Where do you want to see yourself as an artist by the year 2020?

TAUZHA: Wow… My ultimate goal is touring around the world, having sold out shows, and moving my family out of Chicago. I can see so much in 3 years. I know God will answer my prayers. I have a purpose in life and this is it.

SFND MAG: What is the toughest part

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

@Tauzha

TAUZHA: I think the toughest thing is just getting people to fuck with me and rock with my music, because I feel like my sound so different so I’m just putting that work in.

SFND MAG: Where can your fans find your music online?

TAUZHA: My music can be found on YouTube of course iTunes, Apple Music,

Dat Piff, Spinrilla Livemixtapes, Mymixtapes, Spotify ,Tidal SFND MAG: How can your fans reach you on social media?

TAUZHA: IG:Tauzha FB: Tauzha Twtr: Tauzha SFND MAG: Before you go we always like to ask our interviewees this last question. Name another artist that you think

is “So FN Dope” and tell us why?

TAUZHA: It’s so many artists that are super dope that’s signed and unsigned I’ll have to think on that [LAUGHS].

SFND MAG: Once again, thank you so much Tauzha for interviewing with us. We really appreciate your time .We definitely wish you continued success.

Whenever you are in California please get at us!

"A person with 5 rings gone make sure the team eat because they know how to win."

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DOPEQUOTES I’ve never been afraid of big moments. I get butterflies.. I get nervous and anxious, but I think those are all good signs that I’m ready for the moment”.

-Stephen Curry

“The mark of greatness is when everything before you is obsolete, and everything after you bears your mark.”

-Dave Chappelle

"It never occurs to me that there are things I can't do." -Whoopi Goldberg

“If it makes you nervous- you’re doing it right.

-Donald Glover

“You can spend your time Dreaming about Living or Living your Dream.”

-Fabolous

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DOPE QUOTES

DOPEQUOTES “Confidence breeds “Waking up in TRUTH is success & success so much better than living in a lie.” -Idris Elba breeds confidence...

“Some people are so poor, Confidence applied all they have is money.”

-Chance the Rapper properly surpasses “Don’t be afraid to close genius.” your eyes and dream, but then open your eyes and see.”

-Mike Tyson -P. Diddy “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”

-Abraham Lincoln

“Stay positive but stay focused.

Sometimes things can distract you and you don’t want to be distracted on the journey to that mountain top.”

-DJ Khaled

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MONTHLY DOSE

MONTHLY DOSE OF DOPE

BY TAURA STINSON

Taura Stinson is a veteran songwriter who has written for recording artists including, but not limited to Raphael Saadiq, Destiny’s Child, Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Steven Tyler and Mary J. Blige, to name a few. To learn more about Taura, please visit www.EatWriteHear.com

T

here was something that struck me about Bree as soon as I pressed play and sent “Addiction” blaring through my speakers.

The opening line is “I cut off all my hoes for you”, so of course, that got my attention and the lyrics that would follow were just a commanding as her voice…a voice that is a modern churchy tone meets a 90’s Nicole Wray-ish hybrid, but she has this extra thing on it that makes it all her own.

But back to that lyric…”I cut off all my hoes for you”. Not for the faint of heart, no…but if you love artist that stick their necks out in the wind and take chances as much as I do, then you will love this Chicago native.

I fully listened to her submission before venturing through her other sound cloud postings, as well as before visiting her instagram page, and when I did…I loved her even more. She’s androgynous, bold, hood, intellectual and infectiously unique. She’s the first girl that I have seen, boldly sporting a high-top fade and stepping beyond the confines of femininity to be her stark raving self and I love it.

She is the kind of artist who will inspire people to be themselves, which is seldom seen in this business. I have to admit that I have grown tired of the same tones, subject matters and what is with everyone trying to sound foreign? I won’t say any names, but all it takes is one Google search for us to figure out that you are not from across the pond…ladies.

Embrace your culture and stand up for where you are from, like Ms. Bree. She is unapologetically herself, artistically, car-

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rying the concept through both visually and musically.

Her song, “Addicted: was produced by a local up and coming that too has become a lost art. So many young artist spot hop from studio to studio, not realizing that they are sucking the continuity right out of their project. If you think back to the glory days of R&B, you will remember how entire movements were created when an artist joined forces with one producer or camp and that is what it looks like Cente and Bree are aiming to do.

I centered my focus on “Addicted’ since that is what she submitted, but I did sneak a listen at a few of her other songs and they too have potential, but I will say that “Addicted” is the cream of Bree’s current crop, so my advice to her would be to water it! Nurture that R&B sound that you and Cente have crafted so well and always allow your voice space to shine.

Also, it’s tough enough being a woman in this world, but add on being a black woman in this world singing love songs to girls, and you can only imagine the ridicule that this lovely human has already or is destined to face…and when you consider that, I hope that you support her and artist like her, who make his world of music, rich, diverse and beautiful.

I also enjoyed the artist Fig and his song “Plenty of Sunshine”.

The video is dope and the message of family, community and love is my favorite, check it out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIQUS7DGd2w In closing, I have to say that a career in music is not to be taken lightly. If this is something that you want, you have to work ten times harder than you have ever imagined to even get a fraction of what you hoped to get out of it. Oh and this journey is on a road filled with mostly bad intentions, so staying humble, exceeding in your craft and staying focused is key, even if you are not being paid for it yet. I have been in this business long enough to know that your really do see the same people on the ladder when you go up as you do when you are coming down, so always remember to treat people fairly and never underestimate anyone.

If you would like to submit music for next month’s issue, please only send your two best songs. If we want to hear more, we will find them. Also, be sure to include all of your social media links as well as a short bio.

Until next time.

Be good to yourself and others.

Xoxo Taura Stinson

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Y. LUC The energy. The heat. The heart. The soul. The groove. The magic.

No wishbones, rabbit’s foot, four - leaf clovers, or horseshoes involved. This person comes from a place where voodoo is more prevalent than LUCK. This MC is unapologetic about his struggles and even more unapologetic about his triumphs. His vulnerability and candidness within his music is something to truly take notice of not to mention he has “BARS.” A brilliant well-written, clear, and concise approach to storytelling is displayed in Y.Luck’s #IH8RAP Album that has me saying “Y” NOT LUCK!

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COVER ARTIST

CK NEW ORLEANS, LA

PHOTO BY: Nelson Cosey JUL/AUG 2017- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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FND MAG: Whoa na …

What’s good roun?

Y. LUCK: What’s GOOD MY G….

SFND MAG: First off, thank you for taking the time to sit down with SoFNDope Magazine and let us into your life a little bit … [LAUGHS]… How have you been?

Y. LUCK: I’m coolin, I can’t complain.

Trying to make a million dollars out of a hot $20 bill [laughs].

SFND MAG: Aren’t we all... [Laughs] SFND MAG: Luck, you have the streets “wiggin” out right now with that #IH8RAP album, but we’ll get to that in a minute. Where did the name come from?

What’s the significance behind it?

Y. LUCK: Well, if you’re talking about “YLuck” then it came from my pops saying i was so lucky because I use to somehow get out of trouble without a scratch or any real problems following it.

[Laughs] the (Y) is because everybody will ask “why me”. Anyway, so I put it on there first. [Laughs.] And the name #ih8rap is because I really hate rap… ha ha ha ha.

SFND MAG: You’re from the 17th ward correct? There’s a lot of notable artist both signed and unsigned/independent from the 17th ward. Would you like to, or have you worked with anybody from 17th ward?

Y. LUCK: Hell yeah, I’ve worked with a few. My favorite was Skip of UTP though.

He gave me a lot of game. A real OG to me.

SFND MAG: “Y’all hear dat Nolia Clap” (hands rubbing and clapping together) Skip is a great person to soak up game from “fo sho.”

SFND MAG: We’ve spoken with other artists from New Orleans and I’m not going to lie they’re extremely talented, but I’ve never heard their music on the

PHOTO BY: Kenny Groggins radio when I visited home. You’ve made mention on your album that other cities support their homegrown artist, but New Orleans is one city that doesn’t support their own unless you’re hot outside the city first! Why do you think that is?

Y. LUCK: Because the N.O. is a city full of hate and haters. A lot of people don’t want to see you win. At all! Just think about it, most people blow up and run their cities. Ala JayZ, Puffy, in N.Y. Or Jermaine Dupri, and a few others in ATL, or Rick Ross in Miami; but here our big artist just leave, and I cant say I blame them. Man, we kill our legends down here. It’s a real island we live on, and it’s an island full of hate. Not everybody is that way, but most people are and it’s worst because some of the radio DJs are the same way. It depends on what you’re doing for them or how you stroke their ego on how much you will get your song played. Shit, my own family wouldn’t even help me, and that nigga is the #1 DJ here [laughs]. It’s just crazy you know.

Niggaz just don’t want to see you bigger than them. Fake but true. Sad but real… enough bout that though. [Laughs] I could go all day.

SFND MAG: Is that frustrating for you as an artist to deal with those… what I would call “musical politics” in the city that you call home?

Y. LUCK: It use to be, until I realized that (starts singing) “90% is fake, 60 of that is snakes and 55 of the 60 is all hate”.

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(Laughs) That’s off my album by the way, but yeah I’m use to it now. It is what it is.

SFND MAG: Got Cha… Let’s change pace just for a second … Every since you hit the scene one thing that I’ve noticed and admired about you is your admiration for your daughter. Being a father of a beautiful daughter myself I get it, but explain to our readers why her affirmation means so much to you?

Y. LUCK: She is the reason I do whatever I do. There was a time when I only had to make sure I ate that day, and sometimes I would be so busy that I would forget to eat; and now it’s like I’m no longer worried about if I eat, but it never slips my mind to make sure she ate that day.

That’s the difference. With her, I have someone and something else to live for.

I’m happy with the smaller things in life.

I’ve traveled. I’ve splurged. I’ve done a lot, so all I need is the small things. A house, one car, family and I’m straight, but now looking at her I see that I want more for her and my family. She deserves 1000 times more than what I ever had, and I go extra hard to make sure she will have more. Not that I wasn’t blessed, because my moms and pops made damn sure me and my sisters had whatever we needed.

But yeah, she’s just my everything yo. She means the world to me [laugh]. I just get happy thinking about her. She’s my heart and my heart beat. I can’t live without that lil girl.

[Continued on pg 59]

COVER ARTIST

"She is the reason I do whatever I do."

PHOTO BY: Nelson Cosey

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"Well...

I don't hate rap. I hate where rap is right now.

It's wack. I can't rock with where it's at.

-Y. LUCK

PHOTO BY: Nelson Cosey

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COVER ARTIST

@yluck7

“I'll do whatever it takes to show the world that we are strong and if we unite, no one can stop us.”

PHOTO BY: Nelson Cosey [ SFND MAG: MANNNN! You sound like me when I’m talking about my lil ones...

[Laughs] SFND MAG: Unfortunately, sad but true, we grew up in an era where a large percent of fathers in the black community where absentee. You’ve expressed an immense amount of respect for your father; going as far as to call him “the first super hero”, you’ve known! How much has he influenced you in your career and in life in general?

Y. LUCK: Maaaaaaaaan, that dude is a ‘G’. The realest dude i know. He taught me to speak my mind no matter what and say how I feel and mean it. He has given me the best advice throughout my entire life. Dude is just real solid. He’s a great man and an even better father. I watched him raise everybody around us.

Money was no object. You know what he did once just to please me? I had a scholarship to a private school for football and my best friend didn’t. I wanted so bad to go to high school with my nigga and play our football careers side by side that he offered to pay his tuition just so I would be comfortable and happy at school.

Now even though my nigga didn’t go, I thought that was the realest thing ever.

Dude just a real nigga yo. For real.

ters Artist with The RAP Pack in 2013…

Video on 106&Park “Black Women”…

OOH LA LA LA and WALKIN THRU NEW ORLEANS remix picking up steam…We’ve watched your journey with the group; the image, the message, the lyrics, “THE SWAVER” ! I thought y’all was outta here yeah! WHAT HAPPEN? Y. LUCK: Maaaaaan just 3 different men with 3 different lives. We are all still friends today but, it just was a lot going on. We had a manager that was also working for the label which was clearly a

SFND MAG: Plug away “roun”... [Laughs] SFND MAG: How is your relationship with your former group members, have you guys done any work together since the breakup?

SFND MAG: From the sounds of it, the apple didn’t fall to far from the tree.

SFND MAG: “Y.Luck”… BET Music Mat-

conflict of interest, and we had a meeting and found out he was keeping money from us and making all the wrong moves and shit. Like man, we recorded a totally different song that we had no desire to do just to perform it on 106 & Park. He basically told us if we didn’t perform it, we weren’t going to be on BET, and it was all because the manager wanted to get another female artist some shine. We had/ have so many dope songs that we just never put out, and he chose that wack ass song. But, we were so green we just went along with it, and it all came to a head in a meeting when I went clean off. Told him off and basically said I didn’t want to work with him any more. I apologized to the group but I will never be pimped nor treated or talked to like I’m less than a man. So yeah, it was a lot. But if you listen to #iH8Rap its all on track #17. Ha ha ha ha ha… shameless plug.

PHOTO BY: Nelson Cosey

Y. LUCK: Maaaaaaan all 3 of us are brothers. Me and K. Gates talk at least two to three times a week. Me and Show talk as much as we can, but that’s all my brothers. It’s deeper than rap with those dudes. I genuinely love them dudes. I’ll put one in somebody or take a bullet from somebody for those dudes. Real talk. We did a ‘lil’ work together but JUL/AUG 2017- SOFNDOPEMAGAZINE.COM -

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COVER ARTIST

#IH8RAP I think we all have different focuses right now.

SFND MAG: Understood.

SFND MAG: You’ve been linked to Wild Wayne ,an icon radio personality in New Orleans, you’ve been consigned by some of the city’s most respected MC’s.

You’ve been stamped by Mr. “Here I Go” Mystikal himself and been a part of what I call his comeback campaign. You’ve been a part of what some were calling the “Next To Blow” from New Orleans with The Rap Pack and now arguably one of the hottest albums coming out of the 504. What would you say if someone said the average artist gets one shot; and that you’ve had three or four… it may not be meant to be?

Y. LUCK: Maaaaaaan, to be honest I really believe I haven’t even gotten a real shot yet. The Rap Pack never got a real shot because we never did what we really could and showed the world. Kind of like trying out for a football team and them telling you let me see you catch the ball, but you have the best arm there. Yeah you got to try out for the team, but they never really got to see what you could do. Well, that was the Rap Pack, and with Wyld Wayne, that’s my brother-n-law; he did very minimal to help. He’s actually the DJ I was talking about in the earlier answer I gave. But again, track #17 on #IH8RAP [LAUGHS]. And the Mystikal thing is like, he can’t really help me get where I need to be until he gets back where he needs to be. So, you know how that goes, but trust me, this #IH8RAP is finally giving me that shot I needed all along.

SFND MAG: Let’s get to this album! The Streets are talking! I’m hearing words like “Dope,” “Fire,” “Needed,” and “Classic” being thrown around! These are some powerful words! #IH8RAP the Album! It is ironic hearing #IH8RAP for an aspiring rapper.First, Why the spelling? Why the name? What inspired it?

Y. LUCK: Well I don’t hate rap. I hate where rap is right now. It’s wack. I can’t rock with where it’s at. You no longer have to be talented to be a rapper. Well, actually the talented ones are the ones on the outside looking in. It seems like the worst ones are the ones getting all the shine right now. It’s crap, and I only spelled it like that because it’s different; and the wack ass rappers/fans/DJs is what inspired it. It’s my way of balancing out that garbage on the radio. That’s all.

SFND MAG: Your way of “Balancing out the garbage on the radio” ... [Laughs] I hear dat.

SFND MAG: The staff here has been listening to your album from front to back and from the sounds of it, at one point you were about to call it quits. That must have been a dark time for you, what shook you back? How did you find the love within the hate?

Y. LUCK: Man, Mystikal called me while I was at work and was like “I need you to open up for my birthday party, nobody but you”. He was like please ‘lil bro you know when we on the ticket together it’s crazy. So I said ok, [after a year and a half of no music being done.] Then once we did the show he was like “Man we gotta do some more shows.” So I was like

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“well, I need to get in the studio and do some new songs” because my shows are really what makes people say “damn he’s talented”. So, once I got back in the studio I fell back in love.

SFND MAG: You have so many jewels from start to finish on this album, but let me ask you if your radio got stuck on repeat which song of your album is your favorite. Which song would you want to keep spinning and why?

Y. LUCK: “House Nigger”… 100% that’s my favorite because it’s how I feel. It’s what I want to say. I want to be a leader for my people, the voice for the voiceless.

I’m not afraid to say what my people want but either can’t or don’t have the guts to. So yeah, that’s my ultimate favorite.

SFND MAG: “House Nigger” ,” Talk Is Cheap”, “Fake Homies”, “Don’t Forgive”... just to name a few homie it’s hard for me to pick just one.

SFND MAG: For someone who has never heard your album #IH8RAP and is listening for the first time what would you like them to take from your album?

Y. LUCK: The honesty, the passion and the fact that I put all of that together by myself. All real voicemails and real situations put in an audio autobiographical form. I want them to know I speak from the heart, not just that bottle poppin, money throwing, women, drugs, cars, fake music you hear from everybody else.

My music is all real music. Real life shit.

COVER ARTIST SFND MAG: Let’s talk about something that is taboo in the music industry THE ILLUMINATI! In your song ILLUMINATED, you alluded to a run in with said “Secret Society.” Did you mean that in a literal sense, or was that spoken figuratively? What can you tell me about that situation?

Y. LUCK: I was approached to do things that morally I would never do, and in return, I would receive overnight success including fame & money. I said, “hell no, y’all can kill me first.” That’s all I’ma say.

Next question.

SFND MAG: Before I ask you this next question, you have the option to give a politically correct answer or keep it ‘G… [Laughs] The temperature of the music industry has definitely been weird for the lack of a better word. The industry seems a lot more excepting and tolerant as of lately. Everything from the mumble rappers, to men wearing blouses, rompers, chokers and legging to men calling each other “Bae” and “Boo.” What is your take on where the culture is headed?

Y. LUCK: The white man in general wants to take the black man out of the homes of our people, and it’s working.

The reason we see less Kendrick’s, J. Cole’s, Big Sean’s and myself ’s is because we will make the young black man think and be strong. We make people wake up. Why make me a public figure when they know ‘lil black young men without fathers may follow me and follow my words? It’s much easier to make them think being gay is cool so they can manage the black community. Either by decreasing reproduction which is definitely working because gay men not only can’t teach young boys how to be men, but if they aren’t sleeping with any women than their damn sure not making any black babies. Think about this, in 1993 in living color had a skit called “Men on Film” and it was funny as hell.

Now in 2017, there are at least 10 shows with 2 and 3 gay hosts. It’s now reality.

Their plans are working. If the black man is gay he isn’t creating more kids and isn’t carrying himself like a strong black male so guess what happens, we have no more black leaders. Any new version of the Malcolm’s, Martin’s & Nat Turner’s have all been either wiped away or offered

a considerable amount of money to be silent. Other than that, most of our black public figures are either gay, sellouts or to afraid to speak and lead the next generation. Except me. I’m with it. I’ll die leading my people. I’ll do whatever it takes to show the world that we are strong and if we unite, no one can stop us. We are the smartest, the strongest, the healthiest, the wisest and our ingenuity far exceeds that of any other race. We just have one problem, we don’t know that, so we feel like everyone else is better than us at everything except sports and music, and we think there are only a certain amount of slots for blacks so we fight each other for that one slot instead of creating our own thing and making all the slots black. I can on and on and on about that. [Laughs].

That’s why I said “House Nigger” is my favorite song on the album. I’m extremely passionate about bettering our people.

SFND MAG: We need more artists with your mind frame Luck honestly more people in general.

Y. LUCK: Oh hell yeah, I have about 5 scripts already written. That’s really my passion, acting. That’s really what I eventually want to do, and I will. I just have to get this music out to the people first; but my imagination is crazy so I have a few stories to tell, and eventually you will see me on that big screen also.

SFND MAG: Where can our readers follow and find out more about Y.Luck?

Y.LUCK : My name is @yluck7 on Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. Also go to Youtube and type in “Y.Luck” you will be surprised at what you find.

SFND MAG: Before I let you go, can tell me another artist you have worked with or would like to work with that you feel is SoFNDope and why?

Y.LUCK: Locally it would probably be Jay Jones. I’m a fan of his, and I’m one of those real niggaz that ain’t scared to say I’m a fan of another rapper. That’s our problem now. But dude is extremely talented though. So yeah him; and nationally there is a chick in philly name Lee Mazin. I swear I wanna do a song with that chick. She’s hella hella dope. Plus I like underground artist. So yeah.

SFND MAG: What can we expect from you in the future? Are you In search of a major deal or is the independent route more beneficial for you?

Y. LUCK: Well, what I would really like is an investor. I want to take my own route.

I have all the connects and the music but i need the capital. It’s like driving a small car; it only takes a ‘lil bit of gas, maybe $20 worth. And as the vehicle gets bigger so does the amount of gas and thus the cost of the gas. Well, I have been self sufficient up to this point but now my vehicle is getting bigger and I don’t have the gas money to get me where I need to be, figuratively if you get what im saying?

SFND MAG: Again, Y. Luck we thank you for being SoFNDope and allowing us to enter into your world for a moment.

We are more than fans bro we’re supporters. By the way my name is Corey and #IH8RAP! Y. LUCK: I know yo name fool and I thank ya’ll for all ya’ll are doing bro.

Thanks a lot for everything. I enjoyed myself. Now put that #IH8RAP on ha ha ha ha ha…

SFND MAG: Gas is high… I need gas “right na” [Laughs] but seriously I totally understand, Great analogy by the way [Laughs]

SFND MAG: It’s already in the rotation … [laughs]

SFND MAG: You know we do our research right? Four words… “Why Wait” and “Black Saturday.” With so many artists transferring over to the silver screen and having success, it almost seems like the norm for artists. With acting, producing and directing under your belt already can we expect more from you in that area?

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FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

@inkk_junkies_tattoos PHOTO BY: Kenny Groggins

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www.jbandbennybluereview.com/

The Podcast taking you Behind The Curtain in the NFL, Sports, & Entertainment // No Hot Takes, Just Real Talk! .

Hosted by former NFL offensive lineman and current coach Jeremy “JB” Bridges, and comedian and music/sports publicist Ben “Benny Blue” Rhinesmith Available on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, TuneIn, & CastBox

@jbandbennyblue

EVENTS

COMEDY

SMACK DOWN

1

2

3

PHOTOS BY: SFND Magazine

1.Comedian, radio personality and Comedy Smackdown host D-Funk introducing the contestants.

2. Paul Doyle in the middle of his comedy routine.

3. Drea Meyers durng her set and then posing for SoFNDope Magazine.

4 Leaf The Comedian striking a post after taking the stage.

5 Kul Black stands with the championship belt after winning the Comedy Smackdown 6. Mr. Shadow Williams founder and CEO of Shadow Promotions and comedian Kul Black after the show 7. Comedian Wendy Lewis stops and smiles for the SoFNDope Magazine camera. D-Funk looks to the crowd to select a winner by applause.

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EVENTS

4

5

6

7

8

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EVENTS

KINGDOM 1

SHOW PHOTOS BY: Joha Harrison of

2

Caravan Film Crew

3

4

5

6

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EVENTS

1. Young Gully performing a few of his latest songs.

2. Show Banga on stage .

3. Young Gully and crew stop for a group pic for SoFNDope Magazine.

4 EQ spitting bars ar the Kingdom Show.

5 Tk StayRokkin & Kenex chop it up after the show.

6. Hip-hop artist Kenex (middle)and crew.

7. Sacramento rapper Charlie Muscle doing us set for the fans.

8. Kenex performing his latest.

9 Tk StayRokkin doing her thang at the Blue Lamp.

10. Charlie Muscle rockin tthe mic.

8 7

9

10

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BADD PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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BADD ONES

A BADD ONE! What does it mean?

What does it stand for?

What does it represent?

A BADD ONE is a synonym of sorts. It means a woman with beauty and brains. It stands for sexiness and intelligence. It represents the jazzy and ambitious woman.

A BADD ONE is definitely more than just a big butt and a smile. She is way past Poison; she’s deadly! It stems from way back, the very first time I heard Maya Angelou speak about a phenomenal woman. I realized then that anyone’s interpretation of perfection should be just that… their interpretation. According to So FN Dope Magazine, the perfect cohesive mesh between beauty and brains, entrepreneurship, ambition, and grace not only make you a phenomenal woman but in our eyes, it makes you a BADD ONE.

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BADD ONES

DEVIN Name: Devin Collins Age: 23 Height: 5’8 Occupation: Marketing and Advertisement Top 5 Songs: I sang for years so it’s impossible to find a favorite!!

Top Movies: Memoirs of a Geisha, Remember the Titans, Blind Side.

Top 3 Things You Look For In A Man: Faith, honesty, and loyalty.

Top 2 Things That Irritate You: Disrespectful people and bad breath #1 goal for 2017: Continue working towards running my own business.

Social media info: Just search my username and I’ll pop right up!

PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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BADD ONES

SFND MAG: What advice would you give to other young women out there who have set their goals and are on track to be successful young women???

DEVIN: Maintain focus, don’t let people distract you from the end goal and glean from those around you who have already successfully done what you seek to do.

PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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BADD ONES

PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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BADD ONES

Antonetteďż˝ Name Age:

Antonette Paviera 22

Occupation: Child Care Provider Hobbies: Singing, Songwriting, RecordingYoutube Videos, Acting Top Movies: Spiderman 1-3, X-Men Origins, I Am Legend

Top 3 Things You Look For In A Mature, Funny , Honest Top 2 Things That Irritate You: Rudeness and inconsideration of others #1 goal for 2017 Record an album of new original music Social media info: Just search Antonette Paviera anywhere on Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube. (:

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BADD ONES

PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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BADD ONES SFND MAG: Do you have any helpful advice to pass along to the next young woman striving to achieve her goals as well?

ANTONETTE: Stay consistent and motivate yourself. don’t let your doubts stop you from focusing on your goals!

It’s okay to fall a few times before you reach your goals

PHOTO BY: Omar

“YXCVLI” Zapien

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R&B MUSIC IS BACK

www.uimusiconline.com

AVAILABLE ONLINE TODAY !!!

BORN

COMING SOON

@caravanfilmcrews

www.caravanfilmcrews.com

MOBILE RECORDING STUDIO

RECORDING $30/hr MIXING $30/hr MASTERING $20/song

@thesocialarchitects

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Dedicated in the Memory of

Leslie

'FLEX' Stafford 1980 -2017