Becoming
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he Becoming Magazine is all about you and the things that you possessed when you were born. Becoming a magazine is about the artist that doesn’t get much notice. Though this is not a huge publication we have the purest intentions and making sure that we do all we can to get you in
the spotlight where you belong.
rtist is so special. We were born with gifts in us that we had no control over obtaining. I am honored to be a vessel that can be an artist that will and always shall make room for you. After all, “ A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.” Proverbs 18:16
reators deserve to have the spotlight if they are trying, especially the creators that are “official by their own approval” and will always stay “self-approved”. In our artistry, we scream and yell with passion, our stories. We may not be able to talk and you may not want to listen but we will
present in an away to get your attention, that will entertain you and you get the message. This is a person’s most vulnerable thing they could ever give away. We bring and inviting everyone into our worlds and our lives to listen, watch, and hopefully learn, and take the messages away from our projects that will make you either look at your life and or change your life and adapt. Just in a recent conversation with a friend, we concluded that artists that should be known are NOT being known because the world is obsessed with the “trash” or “not so great quality” that is in the entertainment industries today. In which, let me apologize, you are worth being known to the world and the world needs and WILL hear you and your voice, see your work and follow the artist you were meant to be. You are a world changer. Beyonce said it best“ 2 The Becoming Magazine | March 2020
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f you feel insignificant, you better think again because you’re apart of something way bigger.” You are important to us and need to be introduced to the world. We want to show the world the best version of yourself as you want them to see. We believe in you and it’s time your voice be heard, and you be
noticed.
e are BECOMING LEGENDS. It’s 2020, We can see. Now, we will become.” In the beautiful words of Beyonce from her song “Bigger” featured on “The Lion King: The Gift” album (2020), “you are apart of something way bigger” and there is no way you won’t get noticed.
“You’re not just a spec in the universe, not just some words in a Bible verse.”
e hope to build this magazine into helping people discover the next big thing. Are you ready to help make a vision come so clear? It’s time to “step into your essence and know that you’re excellent, rise. “The spirits are teaching, I am taking my advice.” -Beyonce. The roots are al-
ready in the grown we have to be the trees that bare the fruit. “The spirit is teachin, no I’m not jst preaching im taking my own advice.”
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“Why worry about featuring on someone else cover when I could be on my own. I create and become.”
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ifted is defined in the dictionary as “having exceptional talent or natural ability.” Whereas the word, talented is defined as “having a natural aptitude or skill for something”, as you can see due to their definitions these words are synonymous. These two words I have asked each interviewee to pick and define at their own accord because we all have a different point of view. With that being said, the way that I define being “Success and being successful are two in the same. And yes I said two in the same see. Success is defined (noun) as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose, and successful is defined as (adjective) accomplishing an aim or purpose. An adjective is what describes, so I rather Success, because to become successful I have to gain success.”
et him introduce himself. My name is LaReco ixon. I am a native of South Carolina as well as wear my cowboy hat and boots proudly yelling “yeehaw” through the streets. I am a Disney’s head, and I am a hard lover of Lilly Sigh and everything she stands for, as far as I can see it she should be President. Anywho, I am also a born artist that we raised in Houston, Texas. I am one of a kind unicorn that is into all types of arts, i.e. sing, dance, photography, design, etc. I am currently a student Actor at Studio School Los Angeles, which just made a TV appearance on Disney Channel’s “Just Roll With It”. Along, with Million Dollar Mile on CBS, James Corden, A Little Late with Lilly Singh, Jimmy Kimmel, etc.”
refuse to sit around and allow all of these other humans that is just putting out projects for clout but there is also another artist that is putting everything they have in themself, literally following the words of Beyonce again “step out your estimate and step in your essence”, and they have stepped out of what people said about them and then stepped into even greater, their essence. I am most proud of becoming who I am.” With this journey it’s not the easiest, he tells us, “It has not been smooth. This has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to go through. Moving away from your comfortable spot can be a bit hard. Hard honestly. I had to understand how to be an ADULT without being and ADULT.
eremiah 9:11 KJV “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” and Revelations 3:8 KJV “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” These are just a few of the many that I keep in my mind but also Beyonce has said “If you’re feeling significant, you better think again, wake up because you’re apart of something bigger. You’re not just a spec in the universe, you’re not just some words from a Bible verse, you are the living word, you are apart of something way bigger”.
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ust as artists were asked, we asked LReco to tell us about his work and things he was most proud of and he begins to spill his guts. “One of my biggest inspirations of all time is Uncle Tyler Perry. This man has worked himself to the bone to create a legacy and he’s built his dreams because someone is tied into his dream and that someone is me. Uncle T went from being homeless to putting on his first show and about roughly 30 audience members showed up in 1999. And now this man has a studio that is bigger than Disney World and Universal put together. Wasn’t ready for that one I know. So the person I am trying to be what I was called in high school “little Tyler Perry”. For years and over two decades, this man has helped our family heal and brought joy through screens in our homes. This man is the reason our family is as strong as it is. When we felt down we would pop in some of his materials and we would watch, sing, cry, laugh, and then feel better. “Sometimes you have to laugh to keep from crying.” and that is what we’re doing. To sum this all up, this is who and what I dream to be. I want to keep creating avenues for other up and coming artists to get started and be known.
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or a long time I’ve wanted to quit because of finances, even times where I didn’t even know I was going to stay but every time my faith in God, the Christ Jesus, kept me here and He kept supplying for me. I have to before I go any further say, Thank you, Jesus, because all of the things I have done and will continue to be able to do I all through the favor and grace of Jesus. I am a firm believer in what I believe in and supporting hat you love and NOT bashing what you hate. But yeah going without food, and almost no place to stay, as well as, just struggling with acceptance and finances. It was pretty rough but when Godsend you no man can do away with His plans.
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here are so many things that are to be proud of but we believe this might just be one of the greatest brags ever. “I am proudly focused on creating this project called BECOMING magazine. There’s a beauty in creating a platform as an artist for other artists. Supporting other artists. I’ve learned that you “support what you love, don’t bash what you hate.” -Lilly Singh So, with that being said, I proudly introduce, “The Becoming Magazine, ‘artist becoming legends. 2020. We can see. Now we become’.” Also, I am working on a new book called “Officially Becoming Me”. Coming soon.” There are so many things we all wish we knew, here is a little advice from LReco, “I wish I would’ve known that you must prepare and have patience and persistence. Also, take the work ethic that you have and double it.” Art has it’s meaning LReco tells us “Yo, what I do is the best. Let me tell you why. I get to be a Doctor, Lawyer, Firefighters, etc. and not have to go to school for it. I get to step into these characters’ lives, and BECOME them and help others relate to and heal. “Every artist in here, someone’s life is tied into your dream.” Uncle Tyler Perry said. So my art is everything. It’s my life. I give my life to help others through art.” For the love of everything is going on we asked what is something we should be more aware of and though his answer is simple, it’s powerful, “Being loving and kind, and spread positive love and energy to every matter, also, acceptance is attractive.” This leads to his final words of wisdom, “You’re official By Your Own Approval, and always stay self-approved.” 8 | Magazine
xoxo,
lreco aireon & heidi nicole Tune in to some of LReco Aireon’s top tunes: “Dance” Terrell Grice (ft. Candice Boyd, Kate Stewart) An Invitation To The Cookout “Heartbreak” Terrell Grice (ft. Kim Cruse) An Invitation To The Cookout “Untouchable” Terrell Grice (ft. Brooke Simpson & Lex Cole) An Invitation To The Cookout “Rocket” Beyonce Beyonce “Bigger” Beyonce The Lion King: The Gift
Model(s): Heidi McAnthony LReco Aireon Photographer: Heidi Nicole Photography Location: Malibu, California Hat: Daniel’s Product Boxers: Calvin Klien Pants: Forever21 Men Magazine | 9
Model(s): LReco Aireon Photographer: Heidi Nicole Photography Location: Malibu, California Hoodie: Suburbia Merch by DarylSalad Hat: Daniel’s Product Boxers: Calvin Klien Pants: H&M Forever21 Men Swim Trunks: Forever21 Men
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A LEGEND AT REST LIVES FOREVER The resigned Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, 41, and his girl Gianna kicked the bucket in a helicopter crash close Calabasas, Calif., on Sunday. Bryant was among the travelers voyaging locally available the helicopter. Nine individuals passed on in the accident, including the pilot, said Alex Villanueva, the Los Angeles County sheriff, during a news gathering. The National Transportation Safety Board said it sent a group to California on Sunday evening. Daryl Osby, the Los Angeles County fire boss, said the accident site was hard to get to and that firemen needed to climb to the territory. It was not quickly clear what number of travelers the helicopter was endorsed to move, and fire authorities said it was not promptly evident whether the helicopter was over-burden. The N.B.A. sent an affirmation of Bryant’s and Gianna’s demises to all groups and association representatives Sunday evening, as per two individuals acquainted with the report. Different survivors of the accident included John Altobelli, a long-term baseball trainer at Orange Coast College, a lesser school in Costa Mesa. Calif., just as Altobelli’s better half, Keri, and little girl Alyssa, college authorities said. It could take a few days to recoup bodies, the specialists state. Sheriff Alex Villanueva of Los Angeles County said the helicopter went down in a region with “unpleasant landscape,” and that even crisis authorities had thought that it was risky to reach during light on Sunday. The garbage field, the sheriff stated, was about 100 yards toward every path. The nearby specialists didn’t quickly discharge the characters of the individuals who were on board the helicopter, including Bryant, and the main clinical analyst for Los Angeles County, Dr. Jonathan R. Lucas, said it could take a few days to recuperate the bodies from the accident site. “We will accomplish our work altogether, rapidly and with the most extreme sympathy,” Lucas said. “We’re doing all that we can to affirm recognizable pieces of proof and offer conclusion to the families in question.” Bryant and his girl were setting off to an institute where he trained her group. Outside the Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, Calif., fans laid blossoms and lit candles at an offhand commemoration for their star. The exercise center had manually written signs on the entryway: Closed. A couple dozen individuals, grown-ups everything being equal, stood clustered peacefully around the commemoration of a few pullovers, candles, many bundles, Sports Illustrated magazines with Bryant on the spread, and a Lakers banner. Composed on one bundle was “We love you Kobe and Gigi.” Another card, the state of a Lakers b-ball, read, “The day we lost a legend: 1-26-20 Thank you for being a good example for me and for other people.” Bryant was en route to the foundation to mentor his little girl when the helicopter smashed, as per two law implementation authorities who talked on state of obscurity since they were not approved to uncover subtleties of the continuous examinations. The institute was facilitating the Mamba Cup Tournament Series, a progression of competitions for young men and young ladies ball groups from the third through eighth grades. All the games were dropped after the updates on Bryant’s demise got open. Immediately, a couple of fans wearing Laker pullovers began reciting “Ko-be! Ko-be!” and afterward halted. Eddie Lugo, 21, set a return No. 8 shirt and candles on the dedication. He wore a blue return shirt in reverse, with the goal that Bryant’s name looked ahead. “I was strolling my canine gathering up with my mate, commending my pal on all the Laker gear, really, when perhaps the closest companion called,” Lugo said. “We were all simply mind blown, we thought it was phony.” Drafted to the N.B.A. straightforwardly out of secondary school in 1996, Bryant was named an All-Star in 18 of his 20 seasons for the Lakers and helped lead the group to five titles. His hypercompetitive nature prompted incidental open conflicts with mentors and different players, however his pledge to winning was never addressed. The champ of the N.B.A’s. Most Valuable Player Award for the 2007-8 season, and the N.B.A. finals M.V.P. in both 2009 and 2010, Bryant demonstrated an uncommon responsibility to progress on the two parts of the bargains, with a list of references that included two scoring titles — and a 81-point game in 2006 that is the second-most noteworthy single-game aggregate in N.B.A. history — alongside 12 appearances on the class’ All-Defense group. He additionally flourished with the global stage, where he won gold decorations for U.S.A. B-ball in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. In 2016, after different wounds had negatively affected the long-lasting whiz, he demonstrated to have one more feature in him, scoring 60 focuses in his last game while driving the last-place Lakers to an astounding success over the Utah Jazz. Off the court, Bryant’s heritage was unquestionably increasingly convoluted. He was captured in 2003 after a rape grievance was recorded against him in Colorado. A 19-year-old lodging representative asserted that Bryant, who was attempting to restore his knee following medical procedure, had assaulted her. The lawful body of evidence against Bryant was in the end dropped, and a common suit was privately addressed any remaining issues, however Bryant freely apologized for the episode. “Despite the fact that I genuinely accept this experience between us was consensual, I perceive since she didn’t and doesn’t see this occurrence a similar way I did,” he said in his announcement. “Following quite a while of checking on disclosure, tuning in to her lawyer, and even her declaration face to face, I currently see how she feels that she didn’t agree to this experience.”
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Sources: LA Times
In retirement, Bryant became something of a boss for ladies’ games and extended his domain, winning an Academy Award in 2018 for his enlivened short film “Dear Basketball” while additionally making the web arrangement “Detail” for ESPN in which he broke down current players. “My heart can take the beating/My brain can deal with the granulate/But my body realizes it’s a great opportunity to bid farewell,” he wrote in “Dear Basketball,” the sonnet that he wrote to report his retirement that was the reason for the short film.
Drawing By: Taguig, Philippines Reluctantly, we dedicate with Issue of the Becoming Magazine to #Mamba9: Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, Christian Mauser, Arazo Bayan, Sarah Chester, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Payton Chester
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“Why worry about featuring on someone else cover when I could be on my own. I create and become.�
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xoxo, michael korte
BRODWAY’S BEST KEPT SECRET
“I AM A CREATOR AND A PROBLEM SOLVER. I’M AN ARTIST AND A PRODUCER.” THE PRODUCER, CREATOR, AND PROBLEM SOLVER, MICHAEL KORTE, IS BROADWAY’S BEST-KEPT SECRET YET.
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Jumping into the interview, we get into the tough side of the conversation. Being an artist is not easy, and according to Michael, he agrees. “Very little about the creative process is smooth. I have found a way to find joy in the doing. I have found a way to find some joy in disasters. Before ‘smooth’ my main focus is being present through the creation process.” With his journey, and the results of his creations he says “Being myself and true to myself is enough to set me apart from others. I also don’t have much social life. I enjoy working hard. I enjoy the work.” Those things that motivate Mr. Korte are beautiful, we asked Him what sets him apart from the other artist out there that are creating content, and a simple answer would suffice. “Being myself and true to myself is enough to set me apart from others. I also don’t have much social life. I enjoy working hard. I enjoy the work.” Which explains his mission and his work, here is what he told us, “My mission is to elevate marginalized or unique voices most usually within the musical theater space and infuse traditional theater/film work with the most joyous elements of Gospel, Pop and RNB music. It’s work I wanted to watch as a kid. It’s work I want to scroll YouTube and find. It’s my life’s work- bringing together the most talented and creative people to one common creation or solution.” And when it comes to the definition of success, “Success for me is self-love and rent paid”, and honey, WE AGREE. We all just want to get to a place where rent isn’t a factor in our lives anymore. After knowing and following Michael and his work, and this really should be the universal answer when it comes to being gifted, or talented; “I’m gifted in some things that I am not talented in while talented in some things I am not gifted in. Some things come naturally, some things must be learned and some things require having ferociously talented friends to jump in when I am neither gifted or talented enough.” Getting into this industry can be hard, Michael wants to share something he wishes he knew getting into the industry, “I wish I would have known that no one permits you to create. I wish I would have known that power isn’t given to you. You cannot wait, you cannot fear to stumble- you must just do. And be unapologetic about the doing.” Wrapping up the conversation, we have something we feel would help the world and Michael, he said we should be more aware of “Politics and the American political system. Unfortunately, it’s often corrupt, often it only seeks to use POC and LGBT people but we can no longer turn a blind eye to how our political system is fueling the oppression of those we love. Voting is a privilege and politics affects my art.” His art according to him is his “greatest reflection of self. it speaks louder than I do. it is my testimony.” We hope that Michael gets the desire he wants with taking his “work off the internet and into live performance space.” Something tells us that when Korte puts his mind to it, IT definitely will happen. You should stick around the Becoming magazine because when it happens, we will have it here. Wow, that just got us excited. Anywho, that ends this thing. To us, all who are artist Michael wanted to leave us with words of wisdom, “Follow through. Get it done. Finish it and release it. Promote it. It won’t ever be perfect so stop the negative self-talk and rumble the world a little with your work.”
While our world is in the state it’s in it is better that you find something to soothe your mind, listen to Michael’s top bops: Make sure to go and follow him on Instagram @MichaelKorte, and if you are still living under a rock, get from up under there and go and watch the content this man is responsible for on YouTube. Have you seen, HERCULES MUSES MEDLEY, it’s a beautiful mash-up of the Muses from the Disney classic movie “Hercules”. If you haven’t stop what you are doing now and go and watch it. We promise you won’t regret it.
Beyonce’s “1+1” P!nk’s “Glitter In The Air” Dixie Chicks “Not Ready to Make Nice” Destiny’s Child Katie Pruitt Victoria Monet Allen Stone Toni Braxton (as always)
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A FALL FROM GRACE
Tyler Perry has placed more than 20 films under his belt during his meteoric rise in becoming the first African-American to own and operate their own major production studio. On Friday, January 17th, fans will be able to see his latest feature, “A Fall From Grace” when the thriller premieres on Netflix, another first for Perry. Earlier this week Perry joined the stellar cast of the film, along with some well-known friends, to premiere the film at New York’s Metrograph theater. Long-time friend Mariah Carey was on hand to celebrate the new Netflix production along with the cast including, Matthew Law, Mehcad Brooks, Bresha Webb, Cicely Tyson, Crystal Fox, and Phylicia Rashad. Much has been said about the number of projects Perry is able to take on, and turn out. At Monday’s premiere, Michelle Sneed, executive producer and president of production and development at Tyler Perry Studios, commented on how TPS functions at that staggering pace. “I think that we have one of the best crews in the business and it’s quite the feat, but we’ve known each other for a long time. We are like a family, and we’ve had our presence in Atlanta for 25 years now, which makes a difference.” One of the film’s stars, Bresha Webb, commented on the unique nature of how Perry frames his characters. “The dimension is what I loved about this script and the character,” Webb said. “It’s hard for many writers to create black women that can have the strength and the softness that we show in our normal lives. But in so many other realms of characters and for other women, they get to show those layers of who we are, so I’m so thankful that I get to be a part of an experience and character with this effect.” Crystal Fox was hooked from the moment she read the script and spoke to THR on the red carpet about how that allowed her to layer her portrayal of the film’s lead, Grace. “The script blew me away, but it was also juicy. I was in my house reading it to myself going, ‘Ooh! Ooh.’ It was hysterical, but it also made me think, which then made it even richer for me to dig into, to plant my seeds, and to not be afraid of going deep with my character.” The synopsis from Netflix reads: When gentle, law-abiding Grace confesses to killing her new husband, her skeptical young lawyer sets out to uncover the truth. Netflix announced this week that 26 million viewers chose to watch Tyler Perry’s latest feature film – the thriller A Fall from Grace within the first week of it’s debut. Perry took to Twitter to express his thanks when he heard the news. “My heart is full. I’m grateful, I’m humbled by it,” Perry said. “I’ve always wanted my movies to open around the world, and that was the first time, so thank you Netflix. Thank you. I saw you all around the world watching, so thank you.” To put it into some perspective, the Oscar-nominated Scorsese epic, The Irishman, was watched by
17 million viewers in its first five days on the streaming service. IMDB set up the film in its recent synopsis. “Disheartened since her ex-husband’s affair, Grace Waters feels restored by a new romance. But when secrets erode her short-lived joy, Grace’s vulnerable side turns violent.” Sources: Netflix & www.TylerPerry.com
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xoxo, mi kwan lock Critically Acclaimed female lead in 6 feature films, French actress and director of Chinese descent, Mi Kwan Lock grew up in the Republic of Madagascar. “Having an artistic career isn’t the easiest choice, especially when you don’t know anyone who could give you advice. I experienced a lot of rejections. I’ve been told that ‘it would be impossible; artists are meant to be broke all their life. I’ve been told it’s not a real job, that it’s only a dream.” We continued to ask what would your response to be to this and with fire in her eyes (that’s passion) she said “to that, I answer: Yes! I’m a dreamer and I chose to make of my reality the dream I want to live in!” Being the World Changer she is she continued, “everyone has the right to do what they love and you can earn money by doing what you love. It’s possible!” As we ask other artists that we interview about that they are proud of and what sets them apart from everyone else and she began with a humblebrag. “My friends describe me as bold, fearless and unstoppable! It was hard but I dared to sacrifice everything I had: my family, my friends, my lover, my professional network, my comfort… to start over on my own in a country, with a different language, with a visa that only allows me to work as an actress so there’s no plan B. I’m grateful to have the support of my friends and even if I haven’t seen my parents for 4 years and a half now, they understand it’s important for me to do everything I can to accomplish my dreams. I want to make them proud of me. Mi Kwan began to tell us, “In terms of something that set me apart, I could mention my work in ‘A Korean in Paris’ directed by Jeon Soo-Il. The production had a hard time finding the right actress as the role of Chang was very demanding: she’s a prostitute so it required full nudity and a simulated sex scene. Many actresses refused because of that, especially as the Asian families are usually very conservative and there’s still a strong code of honor. 22 | Magazine
“Talent is like a plant, if you don’t water it, it may die at some point.” Then my name came up, I already played the lead in 3 feature films by then. The director liked my reel and was convinced I could do it. While I was reading the script, it was burning in my stomach: I felt I had to defend Chang’s story so I did. It required me to compartmentalize my body and my fear of being judged to use my body as a tool as Chang would do. I also wanted to bring her a lot of humanity and not play the idea of a prostitute. It was a role that had a big effect on me, I received many good critics about my performance and I’m grateful for that.” We went on to ask about her journey, not everyone’s journey is the easiest, and or it’s not always the hardest either. Let us explain “Having an artistic career isn’t the easiest choice, especially when you don’t know anyone who could give you advice. I experienced a lot of rejections, I’ve been told that it would be impossible, that artists are meant to be broke all their life, that it’s not a real job, that it’s only a dream… To that, I answer: Yes! I’m a dreamer and I chose to make of my reality the dream I want to live in! Everyone has the right to do what they love and you can earn money by doing what you love. It’s possible!” Furthering into the conversation, we asked Mi Kwan to tell us about her work and she was telling us “I started on stage in a musical, then a Commedia Dell’arte and some sketch comedy. Then as my training got deeper, I booked jobs in commercials, industrials, shorts, TV shows and I got the chance to be the female lead in 6 feature films (South-Korea, France, Tahiti, Ivory Coast). Two of them are still in post-production and I’m eager to share them with you! I was also a member of the jury in a few film festivals and volunteered to do voice-overs for 19 PSA’s in partnership with the Red Cross. Besides acting, I made my directorial debut with the short film “Red Karma”. I’m very proud of my team as we recently won the “Honorary achievement in Cinematography” award at the Independent Cinema Showcase and “Best French Film” at the Hollywood Art & Movie Awards. Since I moved to LA, I starred as Ashley, an FBI agent in the new TV show “Cypher” directed by Majdi Siri, played in some commercials, music videos, and won the “UP(st) ART Artist of the Year 2018” Award. Most recently I performed in a beautiful sci-fi proof of concept called “Extra Ordinary” by Brendan Bellomo and dubbed into French some characters from the movies “The Chaperone”, “Official Secrets” and “Bombshell”. As we do on all interviews we presented two words, “success” and “successful” and with a pure answer, she told us “For me, being “successful” means that you achieved a goal in your career, reached greatness in your art, in what you do. People recognize it and you get nicely paid for it.” Simply, gifted or talented, Ms. Lock said “I’d say “Talented” as I continue to hone my craft every single day. Talent is like a plant, if you don’t water it, it stops growing and may die at some point. But if you keep doing the work to honor it, you may overpass those who are naturally gifted.” Excited to find out what she is currently working on, and what the readers should check out, “I’m currently preparing a psychological thriller, a Sci-Fi feature film and I’ve just been added to the cast of a comedy pilot.” This leads to something she wished she would’ve known; here is her advice, “Be grateful for everything that happens in your life (good and bad) as it will help you grow and become who you’re meant to be. Use everything that the universe gives you for your art.” Before we call this interview to an end, we have all heard the saying “Be the change you want to see in the world” and with that being said, Mi Kwan wants us to be aware of Waste. “ WASTE! We don’t have to wait for the entire world to change, it starts with us, now and today! We live in a consumer society and it happens too often that people buy more than what they need and food gets wasted whereas there are people who die of hunger every day, even in the USA. We also use so much plastic and non-biodegradable products. A few months ago, I discovered a brand called “Earthside” which goal is a Zero-Waste World. For instance, they mention that “2 Billion cotton swabs are thrown away each day in the United States alone. It’s estimated that there are more swabs and straws in our oceans than there are fish.” We’re all responsible and I’m a big fan of what they do! A big shout out too to Buffy. Each of their eco-friendly comforters is made out of recycled plastic bottles and eucalyptus fibers, it keeps 50 bottles out of landfills and protects 12 geese. ** I want to precise that I won’t earn anything by mentioning these brands but I want to support them as that’s how we can start to make a change. I love their products, please check them out thanks!” and if we don’t take care of the world then we can’t take care and continue in our art and according to Ms. Lock, “My ART is my life, my oxygen, that’s the only thing I can do. I’m truly connected to myself, to the world and it allows me to spread messages, defend stories, characters. I use it as a platform to raise consciousness and awareness, to make the world a better place.” With that being said leaving us with words of wisdom “My Leitmotiv LOVE LIVE GIVE. That’s the way I live each moment xxx”.
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Ms. Frizzle always said it best, “take chances, get messy, and make mistakes.” Check out Mi Kwan’s bops: “Rise Up” by Andra Day “In a manner of speaking” by Nouvelle Vague “Voavy” by Salakao (a traditional song from Madagascar), “I feel it coming” by The Weeknd ft. Daft Punk “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars. Check out the sneak peek of future Legends: Joanna Faivre - IG @joannafaivre.makeup - Hair & Make-up Artist Make sure you follow Mi Kwan Lock: Instagram: mikwanlock 24 | Magazine
Phtographer: @myloveiseminent Styled by @commedesfresas
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Here is something to jam to from Daryl’s playlist: ‘In Bloom’ Neck Deep ‘Self Control’ Frank Ocean ‘Famous Last Words’ by My Chemical Romance ‘3005’ by Childish Gambino ‘OKAGA, CA’ by Tyler, The Creator ‘Reconnected’ by Daryl Salad. Daryl wanted to give you a sneak peek into the future so he’s giving you a preview of some artist that you will see on the cover soon.: Riccy DeLeon Instagram: riccydele Swoon Instagram: swoonlikeyou “You saw it coming from a distance, yeah.” You can never say we haven’t given you anything. Make sure you follow Daryl Salad: Instagram: darylsalad
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xoxo, daryl salad
“It’s a reflection of my-
self. I try to make sure I stay as real as I can be by sharing stories and feelings that are relatable to my listeners. That connection makes me work harder knowing that people care.” During the interview, we asked, what does your art mean to you and why? and we were told, “It’s a reflection of myself. I try to make sure I stay as real as I can be by sharing stories and feelings that are relatable to my listeners. That connection makes me work harder knowing that people care.” The rapper, known as Daryl Salad, is a singer, producer, and director. Hailing from Simi Valley, California states that he prefers to use the word talented. We asked the question, “do you prefer the word talented or gifted”? He told Becoming writers, “Talented; you can gain talent by working hard and practicing at a specific thing.” Launching on the freshmen cover of Becoming magazine, a music maker of about 3 years and recently released his debut album named Suburbia. “The journey I’m on right now has had its ups and downs such as people not taking me seriously or friends and family not believing in me. The struggles of being an artist, especially a musician, are very internal and those can be the most challenging things you could ever face. I’ve had my good days and my bad, but I always overcame them to make sure the product I create is always amazing.” Furthering into the interview we asked the artist to tell our readers more, like things they are proud of and this what he told us, “I’m very proud of ‘SUBURBIA’ and it’s rollout. I have been working on this album for about two years, beats and all. It has come out better than I would ever imagine and I’m glad people are listening to it and enjoying it as much as I do. Usually, I tend to do everything myself. I produce most of my music, I direct and edit most of my videos.” He goes on to humbly brag “plus I put on locals shows every summer to showcase some local talent and other popular artists that I am friends with as well. I have a set within those shows too.” He told us “I also don’t stick to one cohesive sound. I make music-mixing Rap with Alternative Rock, Indie Pop and Hard Rock.” Defining the words success “Success is when you are happy. Happy with what you do, happy with how you are living, happy with you in general.” This one got our heartstrings, he finishes the statement with “that’s something I’m trying to reach.” He told us that he’s put out music before. “All can be found on my SoundCloud and/or streaming services, but listening to them, you can hear the progression of what I become today.” Thanks to the Salad man himself he told us about his favorite thing to do in music. Stating “music videos are also my favorite things ever to do because of the freedom I have to make whatever.” Music is freedom, so don’t take it for granted. Daryl tells us “Right now, I’m focused on finishing some music videos to accompany SUBURBIA and organize a mini summer tour for the project as well. I’m always working on and recording music, so I might put out a new EP by the end of the year.” For all of the new artist coming up that may read this article, this is for you. Becoming Magazine staff asked that he give some advice for those to come after him. “I wish I knew that patience is key and friends don’t last forever. Growing up is hard as hell, but it’s a long learning experience that we all do at one point. We all travel on different paths and maybe at some point, we will meet again once those paths cross.” “In the words of Shia Labeouf, ‘Just Do It!’” are some words of wisdom he left with us. While in conversation the interviewer asked “tell us something we should be more aware of in the world, and why?” and he tells us “We should be aware more of our emotions and how we convey them. It’s important to let people know how you feel before it’s too late and holding it all in will not help at all.” Magazine | 27
Phtographer: @myloveiseminent Styled by @commedesfresas
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BEYONCE’ S IVY PARK x ADIDAS RELAUNCH
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GENIUS STRATEGIC MARKETING: A LIST CELEBRITIES MODEL IVY PARK DURING EARLY RELEASE FOR FREE
IVY PARK is an activewear clothing line co-founded by American singer Beyoncé and Sir Philip Green, introduced in 2016. The joint venture of Beyoncé and Topshop was officially announced in October 2014, and operates under the company Parkwood Topshop Athletic Ltd. Beyoncé’s eagerly awaited athletic-streetwear joint effort, Ivy Park x Adidas, authoritatively goes marked down on January 18, and even celebs can scarcely keep their cool about it. The association among Beyoncé and Adidas is a sexually impartial case dispatch of dress, extras and footwear, and a “look into what future execution wear can be,” as indicated by the brand’s site. The case incorporates multipurpose jumpsuits, load pants, hoodies, cycling shorts, dresses, covers, rucksacks and shoes. Like Santa Claus — if Santa Claus was the high-flying, glamourous, skilled sovereign of the close planetary system — Bey has been shock gifting celeb companions things from the new line to prod the dispatch, and it resembles little children on Christmas morning... be that as it may, with better style and hues. Outlining for the human world what a virtual gathering in the Bey Hive would resemble, Reese Witherspoon, Ellen DeGeneres, Janelle Monáe, Cardi B, Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, Yara Shahidi and Laverne Cox have all common their goody sacks via web-based networking media.
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ASCENSION BUTTERFLY @BRANAHILL
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“I mean it’s quite simple you should be more aware of negative Energy.” Leading us into the conversation “my art means way more to me than what you guys would
how you use yours is up to you. Another thing people want to see you do good, but never better than them. Remember that.” He also stated “I mean it’s quite simple you think. This is something I put hard work and dedicashould be more aware of negative Energy. Most things tion into...” passionately he completed with “so I’ll be in life you shouldn’t tell anyone about it until it’s done damn if I let it be stripped away or looked at less than because having too many people in your business they’ll what it is.” While also informing us of his definition start speaking negatively over you and speaking down of “Success to me is completing the goals I have set about it and hoping things don’t go as planned. Having for myself and wiping them off my board. Success is too many negatives can overpower the positive.” me finally living the true whole life that I painted for What you didn’t know about D’onQuays’ work myself.” A legend to some introducing to all others, our is “When it comes to the modeling aspect I’ve been doing it for about 3 years. I’ll say 1.5 maybe 2 years on the next March feature, D’onQuay McAllister. We began fashion side like the stylist part I just recently actually the interview off by asking him to pick either “gifted” started about last. To me, everything is still fresh in the or “talented”, and he said “Talented... I’ll say talented book but it’s like I know what I’m capable of and I know because that specific word has no set level to it. Everyone has their own special talent whether it’s an internal what I could do so that’s why I have to push myself as hard as I do.” He told us “the position I’m at now, I have talent or external talent.” never expected for me to be at this point in my life. Me Getting into these industries we don’t always being who I am and being an open book is what sets me have the easiest ways in so we have to grind and learn and hustle through. We asked D’onQuay, what is some- apart from others because I live life as myself. I live to please myself. I don’t live to please the crowd or to make thing you wish you would’ve known, which he said “ sure Billy is happy or Sarah is happy. When you realize I’m not gonna say I did not know but I know that you only live once. When it comes to opportunity or some- that living for yourself is better than living for others, thing big comes the way you should take it, grab it, and you’ll be great.” The small city boy told us, “I’m from a run with it because you never know what can be your small city known as Darlington, South Carolina. break. What can be your BIG Before I was who I am today, I was someone break, what can be your time to totally different. I looked at life differently and shine, what can be your moTALENTED BECAUSE THAT every aspect as to what it is now. My story startment to be heard and show the SPECIFIC WORD HAS NO ed when I first found myself simply just switchpeople who said you couldn’t SET LEVEL TO IT. EVERYONE ing my style up and taking pictures. Who knew do it, that you did it.” He went it would bring me to today’s person. Before it on to tell us “some advice I HAS THEIR OWN SPECIAL was Chelsea boots it was just Nike sliders. As would give for those who come TALENT WHETHER IT’S years pass by people began to tell me ‘you look after me is these simple three AN INTERNAL TALENT OR like a model’ or ‘you should do this, that, and words GO FOR IT! Whatever the third.’ I never took it to consideration of IT is, and just goes for it beEXTERNAL TALENT. what they were saying and I looked in the mircause you only live once.” ror and realize this is my passion. I started with Moving further into some research about the fashion industry. the interview we were to dis I realize this is something that I would love, so cuss some more about his work and something he is I did what I had to do which brings me into who I am currently focused on, and this is what he told us “I’m now. Many opportunities came my way but some wercurrently focusing on the more fashion side of the industry and less modeling because I, in fact, do have a en’t able to be accomplished; yet. A major opportunity celebrity who I have been conversing with about styling that I let slip through my fingers was going to New York Fashion Week to walk for a designer. Along with that, them and joining their team (no I’m not saying the he followed with “I mean overall it has been smooth name, lol).” The little secret he did tell us he said “I can tell however everything has its ups and downs like for example me try to balance out school and gigs. Most times y’all this tho, I recently been looking into trying to get I have to miss some gigs because of my school schedule. with Kashdoll or Lil Kim. I’m just trying to make sure Thanks to Regina (my mother), I will always take the that I am prepared for what’s about to happen. I also have some roles in some upcoming films that I may be school over the gig because school is too important. cast in. Shout out to my modeling manager for holding My mom would say ‘knowledge is more powerful than a gig.’ Also, me being green and new with this stuff, it it down.” While leaving us with words of wisdom, “Nev- takes time for you to get noticed. However, being in the er say you “Can’t”. Anything in life is possible if you put fashion industry you have to do what you have to make and make some sacrifices.” the work in. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day, 42 | Magazine
HAT: H&M MEN AMAZON SHADES: FOREVER21 MEN NECLACE: ATLANTA, GEORGIA OUTGIT: SHANE JUSTIN @ SHANEJUSTIN HARNESS: ASOS SHIRT: ASOS PANTS: PACSUN BOOTS: H&M MEN PHOTOGRAPHY: DONTARIO BENNETT
Something to get icy to: ‘All About The banjamins’ by Lil Kim ‘Ice Me Out” by Kash Doll ‘Pose’ by Yogotti ‘Lottery’ by K Camp ‘Ice Cold’ by K Camp Make sure you follow D’onQuay: Instagram: itsurmond D’onQuay’s Becoming Sneak Peek : Ashley Himes, Fashion Designer instagram: _ashleythestylist Treasure Reid, Photographer instagram: soulohoshots
xoxo, D’onQuay McAllister
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THE NIGHT OWL: TERRY BRIGHT “SUCCESS IS PERSONAL TO ME, THE GOALS I SET FOR MYSELF. BEING SUCCESSFUL TO ME IS MAKING MONEY IN MY SLEEP, AND BEING ABLE TO GIVE BACK TO MY COMMUNITY AND HELP SOMEONE REACH THEIR PERSONAL GOAL.” The oldest of six kids and an officially and iTunes top Charting (#6) R&B recording artist. Terry Bright is next on his way to “Becoming” a legend. He began telling us at the beginning of the interview, “I started singing in church and when my voice started to change I stopped singing for a while. I then started writing songs that would fit my voice. I’m a Texas Southern graduate, actor, and dancer. Basically, an overall creative. I even produce and direct all my visuals.” If you are an artist you could, maybe relate to him and take a nugget of wisdom he dropped saying “some people’s experiences are smooth. Mines are getting there because I am putting in the work. Also, I have been ironing out my creative style and lane. Some of the struggles I would say is promotion. Even the lack of money, to be honest, to push a project, especially if it’s a creative project like mine. I don’t let that get me down because I saw SZA come up. There are no excuses, you just gotta believe in your creative lane and the money will come.” He stated “Success is personal to me, The goals I set for myself. Being successful to me is making money in my sleep, and being able to give back to my community and help someone reach their personal goal.” Pushing further in 46 | Magazine
the conversation, Terry told us a little more about his work. “I call it Visual R & B. I have always been a visual learner and dramatic. The overall picture is to get people to see a different perspective.” Telling us some people that inspired him, “I like Missy Elliot, who was a great example for us 90’s babies growing up. Visuals make us love the song and every time we hear
a song from her, even if we don’t like it yet we are still waiting for a video because we know it is going to be CRAZY! “
Which is “what set me apart is there’s only one Terry Bright, lol, PeriodT. I can’t sit here and pick any artist apart because they express themselves differently. I can say male R&B artists have an opening right now. My goal is to come and fill that spot as Frank Ocean did.” He continues stating “that’s what set me apart is Terry is singing Stories about Terry Experiences. I write all my music with no co-writers so everybody gets a piece of who I am.” Which now explains why he chose Talented over gifted. “Talented because I feel like there is more to you than just having a Gift. When you are talented most of the time it’s because you’re super creative at multiple things.”
xoxo, Terry Bright
Being the intelligent Bright he is, he continue to talk to us and told us some things that he is currently focused on. He began though by saying “I’m still growing.” Which led to “I always tell people to watch a video or go listen to the songs, you either like them or you don’t fake what you like. I always tell people to just get to ‘check it out for yourself.’” The becoming R&B artist told us to make sure “you’ll highlight my music videos so people can click them and check it out. Because the only ones who are reading this interview are the ones who are truly interested in the work I have already done.” He continues to brag about his lovely fans. “They wanna know what’s next and what’s next for me is shooting many visuals trying to go back on tour with Tayla Parx to help promote my project and meet as many new people as possible.” Though he is humble he says “I’m Bless, I have done everything I wanted to do. God is saying it’s my season. I didn’t sign any bad deals or miss out on any opportunities that God hasn’t given me. The only advice I can give is ‘I know it’s hard but you gotta keep going ‘for yourself ’. Don’t do it for anybody else. I have done things to make my parents proud and no one ever shows up to anything major for me growing up. My College graduation I was alone with no parents. I cried so bad. I went to college to show parents are haters they even though we didn’t live in the same home together and my father was in jail and my mom gave us up.” Imagine us as we whipping streaming tears from our eyes. “I wanted to prove to them that I didn’t create a mistake but at the end of the day no one came to my college graduation. ‘So DO IT FOR YOURSELF AND NOBODY ELSE’.” According to the man himself, “The people around you, sometimes the ones close to you are the ones that will hurt you. Check on your friend too. I will text my friends sometimes randomly to let them know I love them and to keep going because you never know what people are going through.” We wanted to step into the interview and tell you first, make sure to check out his Spotify, Apple Music, and music videos, as well as the reason he is so passionate, is because our arts are precious and someone life, to quote Tyler Perry “someone’s life is tied into our dreams”. He told us (his art) “It means I was here and I had something to say. I put a lot of myself into all these songs and visuals but at the end of the day that all will be left it’s scary but so true.” Before wrapping the interview Mr. Bright left us with some words of wisdom that you could carry from this interview, “keeping going until it’s over because life will.” Oh yeah, you didn’t think we would forget to ask him, we got you, he is an R&B recording artist. Here are Terry’s Tunes, Ciara ‘Promise’ Frank Ocean ‘Swim Good’ Solange ‘Crush’ Brandy ‘When You Touch Me’ Dawn Richard “Ode to You’. “There are many more but I love R&B music that has great stories and feelings.” Don’t forget to follow the night Owl himself on Instagram and twitter both @terrybright.
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Model(s): LReco Aireon Photographer: Heidi Nicole Photography Location: Malibu, California Hat: Daniel’s Product Boxers: Klien MagazineCalvin | 51 Pants: H & M Men