THE CURE HIP HOP MAGAZINE BLACK HISTORY EDITION

NATHANIEL THE GREAT ASCENT TO BE THE BEST AT HIS CRAFT HAS BEEN AN AMAZING JOURNEY TO WATCH. STAY TUNED!! THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO COME฀฀฀฀฀฀฀฀฀

Nathaniel The Great is a recording artist and songwriter from Brooklyn, NY. Musiq Soulchild, Usher and Donny Hathoway were some of his musical influences early on. Giving contemporary RnB a fresh sound, blending hip hop and neo-soul makes it safe to say that Nathaniel’s talents are very unique. Raised by a single mother of seven, in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene housing projects, singing in church and performing in plays were ritual early on. Before you knew it, a star was born.

Alongside music, Nathaniel actively pursued a secondary passion in technology. He obtained a Degree in Computer Information Systems, which lead him to launch his own company named Zenyth Technology. Seizing the moment of independence, Nathaniel also launched his own record label, Fort Greene Music. Being a single parent is just another one of the things that keep his focused. Merging his two worlds, Nathaniel developed his own phone app to give his fans direct access to all of his content. His vocals have been featured on projects with French Montana, Wiz Khalifa, Dj Khaled, Swizz Beats and Remy Ma to name a few. With new projects on the horizon, Nathaniel is gearing up to stake his claim in the music game.

Follow Nathaniel The Great: Instagram @nathanielonline

A native of Danville, Virginia, KingGems has had a passion for music from a Very early age. Being exposed to the street-life as a child, KingGems (aka: BlackDiamond), had to learn the hard way about life and consequences. His love for the music increased as he got older and KingGems began rapping in local studios and clubs. His determination and understanding of sacrifices are just a few of the reasons why KingGems is not only focused on success, but slated to leave a legacy that will resonate throughout the industry.

INTRODUCING AL99

Producer | Artist | Musician | Engineer Making a PAC to connect souls. AL99 (pronounced AL nine-nine).

The origin of "AL99" is a derivative of his name and his birth year.

AL99 cultivated his skills through hands-on artistry and working with musicians of varying backgrounds. He honed these skills further by obtaining degrees in Music Business and Audio Production. Exposure to all genres of music has helped him develop his unique sound.

AL99 is dedicated to making music that moves the SOUL.

Born and raised in Jamaica, NY, Brownie was destined to be one of the rising stars from the neighborhood… Being creative and entertaining was second

How did she become a screenwriter? Not sure because writing was never a passion… a matter of fact, Brownie hated writing but storytelling came naturally. As a kid, she would line all her dolls together and make them act out a tv show or movie and imagine that being real! Taking pictures and recording life’s moments was something she was known for, so it was no surprise when created a series. Every time she’d watch a movie, Brownie would scream at the tv, “I would’ve done this differently or they should’ve done that!.” That mindset led her to a new world in the entertainment industry.

Everyone was repping their boro but no one was highlighting Queens! So Brownie put a team together, filmed the entire series in a few weeks, and placed it on YouTube. This happened in 2015 and today, it has almost 2 million views and an overwhelming amount of love. 7 years later, Cold World is streaming on Tubi! This goes to show that nothing happens overnight but with persistence, dedication, and patience… It can happen!

Cold World Web Series is about love, lust, loyalty, and life struggles through the eyes of a woman. It has a relatable storyline, and a great number of sex scenes mixed with the street shit people can relate to! Tap in and support an independent, Black woman ready to kick the doors down in the filming industry.

You can follow Brownie on all social media platforms @Browniebabii.

Born Lazaro Rafael Martinez, aka "Lazaris The Top Don", the family history of this half Cuban/half Boricuan artist is legendary and one that is considered a musical dynasty. His grandfather was a highly respected Afro-Cuban percussionist affectionately known as "Kiki" who recorded and performed for many years. His uncles were Raul (another percussionist) and Arsenio Rodriguez (who played both percussion and a 6 stringed guitar) known as the Tres. His uncle Arsenio, an internationally famous bandleader who was blind, is regarded as the "Godfather of Salsa" due to his many musical innovations and prolific compositions that have been re-interpreted and re-recorded. Lazaris recently had the privilege of representing the family during a historic street re-naming dedication where the street between Dawson and Intervale were honored in the area of the South Bronx. Lazaris, named after his Uncle, is proud to represent the South Bronx. Another family member, a cousin, who goes by the stage name of "Triple Seis," is a rapper and a one time member of Big Pun's Full A Clips Crew & Fat Joe's "Terror Squad".

Lazaris can rhyme with The Elite of the Elite and is always up for an MC battle. He is super lyrically diverse & very versatile with infusing English and Spanish flows. Not only is Lazaris a talented artist, he writes his own songs and ghost writes for many individuals in the music industry. He has a rapid-fire freestyle that sounds like he wrote everything but it comes straight from his soul. From punchlines to witty styles, his smooth delivery with hard core bars & voice will remind you of Big Pun & Jadakiss fused into one. After several years of perfecting his craft, Lazaris’ very first endorsement by one of Hip Hop's rising stars came at the age of 16. A mutual acquaintance named Capone Douglas whose known as "Al Capone" invited him to a BBQ/Release Party that was located between Longwood and Beck Street. It was there that Capone introduced Lazaris to the artist known as "Cuban Link”, a founding member of the “Terror Squad”. Lazaris took the opportunity to freestyle at the BBQ and "Cuban Link" loved what he heard, so much so, that he responded by stating that Lazaris "...was a breath of fresh air in South Bronx Hip Hop".

Lazaris Owns His Own Label: Top Don Empire & is mentored & sponsored By Da Inphamaus Amadeus from Shade 45 & IGetatems. To date, he is a “jack of all trades’’ as a writer/composer, performer, entrepreneur, clothing designer and club promoter. He is also branching out into other areas of media such as artist development, fashion, model management, and developing his overall brand. Two years worth of collaborations and features with other artists and their projects to bolster his brand and create that 'buzz on the street' has been the strategy he's adhered to. One of his productions is called "Street Famous," which was inspired by his uncle Arsenio who fell in this category and touches on that very strategy. The logic being you can't be 'famous' in the mainstream consciousness unless you're 'street famous' first.

The nature of Lazaris The Top Don isn't just to climb the ladder of success until reaching the top. His inclination is to "uplift" others, as he climbs himself. In other words, putting others 'on' who are as hungry and as ambitious to rise in their artistic professions and help guide them. Also, to blaze a trail for them to follow, as many of Lazaris mentors and influences had done for him.

Lazaris still seeks recognition with more break through hits and aims to prove Hip Hop isn’t dead by bringing it back to its original birth place, The Bronx. As the "Top Don of The Bronx" and a "Legend" in New York, he’s coming for the crown. Lazaris is also currently being spun overseas by Dj Tekwun on the Boom Bap 2020 Tour. He is currently signed to IGetatem Records & owns his own label - Top Don Empire: Label and Publishing Company.

It doesn't matter if she is delivering dope flows or delivering a beautiful baby girl. Durgaveli does it effortlessly!

Focused, dedicated and motivated are just few words to describe Durgaveli. Originally from Bushwick Brooklyn, later relocated to Laurelton Queens, Durga contains a brilliance that would light any room up. With influences such as Jay-z, Max-B, Jadakiss, Fabolous, and Biggie, Durga has created a 22-2 BAR like structure. Durgaveli is currently working on a ton of new music. She has teamed up with producers such as Pierre Fontaine, City the King, Hapie Feliz and more to create masterpieces with witty wordplay and story telling that will have you at the edge of your seat!

Make sure to keep an ear out for Durgaveli! Her unique flow and content will always leave you wanting more.

NEW RNB SENSATION L. SMITH

Brooklyn New York . Fell in love with music at the age of 3 and is 1 of 9 siblings. Basketball was my hobby but Music slowly became my passion. Raised by my God mother Janice Campbell church was my go to I always put God first. I won numerous awards for singing while in school and singing competitions. When she died group homes foster homes became life but never stopped my hustle for music. Started doing music professionally 2019 and was recognized by Brooklyn upcoming artist saadgod who signed me in 2020. Music is me and I am R&B.

Larry Smith aka L.Smith Born and raised in east Flatbush (90Z)

JOHNNIE FLOSS JOHNNIE FLOSS

Most rappers these days claim to have a certain swag about them, something that makes them stand out from the rest.

But only few have that "star" status, and can light up a room when they entercapturing everyone's attention. Brooklyn's new favorite emcee, Johnnie Floss, is the light that the city needs. Following in the footsteps of some of BK's finest like Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., and Fabolous, Johnnie Floss uses his witty wordplay and vicious punch lines to get your attention. Floss states, "I want to be the next best thing coming out of Brooklyn. Even though dudes like B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Fabolous are tough acts to follow, I'm up for the challenge." Floss, who does not use profanity in his rhymes, has indeed risen to the challenge of catching his audiences' ears. Armed with quick and precise lyrical assaults, the ability to rock a crowd at any time, and the presence he commands when he hits the stage, there is no doubt that Johnnie Floss came here to play with the big boys. He has been making waves in NYC, including being featured on HOT 97 in an interview with Shani Kulture, performing at the legendary S.O.B's and Pyramid nightclubs, and even scoring a feature on the single, "Shut it Down", led by Brooklyn's own, Maino. However, don't get it confused - although he is repping for his city, Johnnie Floss still maintains the ability to make universal records for the world to embrace. Outside of New York, he's been featured in Chicago's Bassline, and has even branched out internationally and performed at the Encore Lounge in Toronto, Canada. Now, after signing to Worldwide Soundz Records, he has released his new collaboration project with producer DJ Chase on his largely-received EP titled, Rich in Spirit. Johnnie Floss is definitely here to spread love, the Brooklyn way!

THAT TRULY MADE HIM REALIZE HE'S A RAPPER WITH NO LIMITATIONS. WITH OVER 10,000 COMBINED STREAMS ACROSS A SLEW OF STREAMING PLATFORMS IN A MATTER OF MONTHS, THE TRACKS DEDICATED TO THE WOMEN IN KILLA'S LIFE QUICKLY BECAME HIS HIGHEST-PLAYED CUTS TO DATE. KILLA IS OKAY WITH THE FACT THAT HE'S NOT LIKE ANYONE ELSE-SEEKING ROADS UNTOUCHED IS PART OF HIS CAMPAIGN. HE DRAWS INFLUENCE FROM CHICAGO RAPPERS' CHIEF KEEF AND FAMOUS DEX AND EVEN R&B ARTISTS LIKE PARTYNEXTDOOR, BUT HIS SOUND IS INCOMPARABLE. HE STUDIES THE TECHNIQUES OF LATE, LEGENDARY ACTS WHO WERE AHEAD OF THEIR TIME LIKE EAZY-E AND BIG L, BUT IS CONSCIOUSLY AWARE THAT HIS FLOW HITS DIFFERENTLY AND KILLA COULDN'T BE MORE PROUD OF IT.

"I WANNA BECOME KNOWN AS SOMEBODY THAT COULD REALLY RAP," HE THROWS IN. "'CAUSE I CAN RAP MY ASS OFF." WITH HIS DEBUT PROJECT, MIND OF A KILLA, SLATED TO RELEASE IN MID/LATE 2020, HE'S NOT FAR OFF FROM HIS GOAL.

"I JUST WANNA BE STAMPED IN MY CITY TO WHERE IT'S LIKE, 'ALL RIGHT, HE'S ONE OF THE PILLARS FOR THE NEW GENERATION OF ARTISTS," HE CONTINUES.

"I JUST WANNA BE RESPECTED." AND RESPECT IS GIVEN WHERE IT'S DUE, SO KILLA'S NOT WORRIED ONE BIT.

MARCIE NOVELLA

Marcie Novella is an author, an advocate and filmmaker. Her first book, Own Your Stupidity, has touched the hearts of youths that may not have a voice to speak up. Her missions were to reach out to fatherless daughters and bring awareness to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). She is passionate because she loss her son, Kyle, to SIDS in 2001.

Marcie was born in Alvin, South Carolina. She was raised by her maternal grandmother, aunt, and mother. Although her father lived locally, she never got the chance to know him. Since employment was scarce at that time, her mother moved to New York City for greater opportunities. She lived with her mother, but she always requested to move back South to be raised by her grandmother. She often referred to grandmother as her ace of spade because they was so close.

Her desire to stay with her grandmother was granted when she was 10 years old and was hit by a car. She also had an opportunity to personally get to know her father. With numerous attempts, she was unsuccessful and inspired to write Own Your Stupidity. Own Your Stupidity the book was also honored by being adapted to a short film. She was the writer, creator, and executive producer of Own Your Stupidity the short film. Own Your Stupidity was accepted to the following film festivals: The Big Apple Film, GloryReelz Christian Festival, The Fatherhood Film Image Festival, Nukhufest, First-Time Filmmaker, and NewFilmmakers NY.

She has continued her journey with being an advocate of SIDS/SUID and raise awareness. Her inspiration moved her to do her new documentary. Owning SIDS. She is also the writer, creator, and executive producer. This phenomenal documentary addresses the unresolved issues that the laws need to address. She continues to strive to make SIDS/SUID known to everyone.

Marcie has been a public servant for over 20 years. She also teaches financial literacy after school from ages 5-13 years old. She is an Ashford University Alumni, with a master’s degree in education and a BA in Organizational Management. She is also a wife for over 25 years, a mother, and an asset to her communities in Brooklyn and in Alvin.

Currently Marcie is a part of Pipe TV as a research advisor and technical advisor, A writer & CoProducer of "The Stuy: The Danny Brown Story". She is also a talent promoter. The sky's the limit for Marcie Novella!

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE

Signature (aka) Ronnie Robinson Born and raised in Brooklyn n.y Now residing in Manhattan n.y.c. Signature is ready to get to work!

Signature's passion is music recording, producing, writing & composing compositions. My work experience has reached recording greats such as.. Luther Vandross, Teddy Riley, Spliff Starr, The temptations, Wrecks n Effect etc. Working and becoming apart of great institutions such as: Sag-Aftra, Virgin Recods, B.M.I, A.S.C.A.P.Platforms Performed:

Signiture has erformed at The Apollo Theater, The Manhattan Theater, Tavaren on the Green, The Palace Theater along side Bands Jamaica Rebirth, Second 2 none, Ron Anderson quartet, and His own Band Montana Blu Band.

Signature's goal is to get his music & brand heard around the world in many different languages and to become a household name.

THE CURE HIP HOP MAGAZINE NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANIZATION OF THE MONTH 500 MEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

500 Men Making a Difference, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization operating in the five boroughs of New York City. Founded in 2010 by Wayne Devonish 500 Men recruits, trains and matches mentors who are eligible to support young men ages 12-22. The organization is based in Brooklyn New York and engages young men in one on one mentoring, hands on community revitalization projects, group tutoring and volunteer placement.

In 2010 Wayne Devonish put out a call to men living in central Brooklyn to assist him with a renovation project that would increase the amount of public space in the central Brooklyn community. A well-known community activist and entrepreneur in central Brooklyn Wayne made it a point to reach out to men living in Brooklyn in emails and fliers specifically requesting that we come together to collaborate on that renovation project. Wayne believed then as he does now that despite what we read in the newspaper and see on television the legacy of being a man and particularly a man of color, was more than being under educated, underemployed, incarcerated and socially marginalized. This message was received by many of us as an opportunity to work with other men like ourselves who didn’t just want to volunteer on one or two projects, but who wanted to make our presence felt consistently where we lived. We wanted to be seen as the solution and not the problem. As we volunteered together on projects like mentoring at Boys and Girls High School, cleaning local parks such Herbert Von King in Bed-Stuy, renovating apartments for those in need of homes, creating holiday events to provide food for those in transitional housing the group developed a common purpose. We talked more about how many men were doing good things and how little we heard about that. We talked about how statistics published about men of color could only provoke despair in our young men. These conversations and friendships led to the creation of the 501c3 non-profit 500 Men Making a Difference Inc.

500 MEN COMMITTEES & PROJECTS 500 MEN COMMITTEES & PROJECTS GET INVOLVED!! GET INVOLVED!!

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Julius Wilson, Chairperson

Oliver Hayden, Vice Chairperson

Through the civic engagement committee, 500 Men is dedicated to improving the quality of life of community residents, by engaging in revitalization and construction programs and facilitating socially conscious activity. Civic Engagement is focused on anti-violence activism and facilitates “Stop the Violence” discussion forums where men and women from communities disproportionately effected by violence come together to discuss the situation & develop solutions that are feasible for the local community leaders to enact.

For more information or to get involved, please email: oliver.hayden1@gmail.com

BLACK MEN'S BRUNCH COMMITTEE

Cyriac St. Vil, Chairperson

Oliver Hayden, Member

500 Men Making a Difference Inc. in collaboration with Borough President Eric Adams has developed an initiative called the Black Men’s Brunch. This brunch brings together a small group of progressive and accomplished black men to meet each other and collaborate on projects that positively effect and enhance our communities. The B.M.B. Committee is responsible for all aspects of preparation, planning and production of the brunch.

For more information or to get involved, please email: cstvil500mmad@gmail.com

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ADVISORY BOARD

Barbara Jean Williams, Chairperson

The Advisory Board assists in the creation, planning and design of the programs of 500 Men. It also aids in creating policies, fulfilling a supportive role in implementing policies and providing direction to the program staff. In addition the Advisory Board provides advice on the strategy and structure of the organization.

For more information or to get involved, please email: barbarawilliams2012@gmail.com

MAJOR PROJECTS

MENTORING AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Darryl Person, Project Lead

The mentoring and leadership development committee is committed to providing one-on-one and group discussion focused on personal and professional empowerment, entrepreneurial and career exposure, as well as financial literacy. These conversations will be led by members of the 500 Men Making A Difference network and external partners who are dedicated to shaping the lives of our youth. Each student enrolled in the mentoring program will be challenged and empowered to set goals and lead change within their community.

For more information or to get involved, please email: darrylp@500-men.com

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER

George Hutchinson, Project Lead

The American Cancer Society has been saving lives for 100 years. Today, we are supporting The American Cancer Society in its effort to save more than 400 lives a day that would otherwise be lost to cancer. And we won’t stop until we finish the fight. 500 Men Making a Difference leverages the volunteer service of men and women in the New York community to walk in the American Cancer Society’s annual event Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. We are proud to be one of the men’s organizations with a team that walks every year and raises money in support of our sisters, mothers, daughters, aunts, nieces, wives, cousins and friends.

For more information or to get involved, please email: geehutch3@gmail.com