The Daily Shuffle: May 2020

THE DAILY SHUFFLE MAY 2020

KARRIE MARTIN

ntents contents con contents contents c 05. Chappell Roan 07. Allegra Edwards 09. Haley Pham 11. Karrie Martin 19. Mahogany Lox 21. Fola Evans-Akingbola 23. Liddy Clark

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DESIGNER

@xonessa

@karlas.jpg

Vanessa Salles

Karla Silva

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@thedailyshuffle

ntents contents con contents contents c

Monthly Playlist OLDER THAN I AM lennon stella DIVE victoria monét JAMES abigail barlow THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING bruno major I LIKE IT WHEN YOU LOVE ME oh wonder SAME BED lola young BE KIND marshmello & halsey

letter from the editor Hey readers, I’m so excited to share our newest issue with you all. I hope you’ve all been staying safe and sane during this crazy time in the world and I hope TDS brings you a sense of comfort and joy! Feel free to let us know what kind of content you’d like to see from us; we’re committed to keeping our platform a safe space to bring us all closer.

This month, our cover star is the incredible Gentefied actress, Karrie Martin! We delved into the hit Netflix series, the importance of representation on screen, and so much more.

Be sure to check out her cover story to read all about it!

In this issue, you’ll also find a roundup of some must-hear album releases for the month! Let us know which ones you’re loving! As always, be sure to follow us on all our socials to stay updated on all our releases; we’d be so happy to hear from you all!

XOXO

Vanessa Salles Editor-in-Chief

chappell roan

With a sound and style that’s uniquely her own, we recommend having Chappell Roan at the top of all your favorite playlists. We talked to the songstress about her creative process, latest release and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by LISSYELLE LARICCHIA

Tell us about your single “Pink Pony Club” – what’s the story behind the track?

I went to a gay bar called The Abbey in West Hollywood and was completely changed by the entire experience. I was enthralled by the go-go dancers and thought about how amazing it would be to be one, so I wrote a song about it. The pink pony part was inspired by a strip club that was painted hot pink in my hometown.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments while writing/recording it?

I co-wrote this song with Dan Nigro and we finished it in two days, which is very rare for me. It usually takes weeks or even months to finish a song. I didn’t want anyone to look at me while I recorded because I was super embarrassed. I had never vocally performed a song like this before and I had to go back to my middle school theater days to perform it like a pink pony girl.

What has the reaction been like so far from listeners?

So far I’ve seen it bring a lot of joy to people in this strange time, which is really all I ever wanted this song to do. I think people are quite surprised that this was my “comeback” because it’s so different from my previous work. I’m overwhelmed with how well the response has been.

What your creative process usually like?

My creative process is like that one kid in dodgeball who takes it way too far and starts injuring people. What I mean by that is that my mind shoots me 24/7 with ideas and I constantly dodge or hide from them because I’m scared to try to flesh them out, or I just think

they’re bad ideas. But, every once in awhile, I get the courage to sit down and try to catch an idea and nurture it, and most of the time I really like it.

How would you describe your personal sound/musical evolution so far?

My musical evolution truly grew with me.

Before Pink Pony Club, almost everything released was written when I was in high school.

It was intense and angry and sad. Now that I moved away to LA and started my life on my own, it feels like the next level. It’s like a new part of myself burst open once I started struggling in such a large city, and started crawling around trying to find out who I am.

It’s brought loads of new content.

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I was very scared at first. I was having deep anxiety and couldn’t sleep well. Once I stopped obsessively reading the news, I started having a swell time. I like not having the pressure of needing to “get out” and reluctantly agree to “grab coffee sometime”. I miss my family a lot and sometimes I wish I could smell the honeysuckle in Missouri. My dad is kindly sending me some rollerblades so I can go outside AND have fun, so I’m waiting for those. I’ve been reading and working on my demos with my tiny studio in the corner of my living room.

Any special message for fans?

I am so so grateful for all the love I have received from Pink Pony Club. It was terrifying to leap into the unknown with the song, but each one of my listeners caught me, and I can finally feel like myself.

THE DAILY SHUFFLE

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allegra edwards

Starring on Amazon Prime’s Sci-Fi comedy, Upload, Allegra Edwards shines as Ingrid Kannerman. We talked to the actress about her role, behind-the-scenes moments, and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by MATTHEW FISCHER

Let’s talk Upload! What is it about the show that drew you in and made you want to be involved?

I finished the script for the pilot episode so quickly. I remember thinking it was incredibly clever without being heavy-handed, and that the dialogue was funny and yet still so authentic and real. Anytime I read a script and I can’t put it down, I know it’s a good sign.

Any memorable behind the scenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

I wear a special wig in one of the episodes, and it was a real hit with the cast and the crew.

It kept showing up on other people’s heads.

That wig looks great on everybody, from Andy Allo to our 1st A.D. Caroline. I guarantee, you’ll know it when you see it. Also, the very last scene I shot was one in which I am seated…on a toilet. Again, you’ll know it when you see it.

What can you tell us about your role as Ingrid? What should viewers expect from her?

Most people probably wouldn’t want to spend more than five minutes with an Ingrid.

She is strong-willed, image-focused, determined, and self-centered. But! Ingrid is a slow burn. Stick with her. I guarantee you, she will surprise you as the season progresses.

How would you describe the vibe on the Upload set?

The vibe on set was playful, positive, and collaborative. I felt supported and inspired by my fellow cast mates, and especially our creator/showrunner Greg Daniels. From jump, we were invited to visit the writers room to discuss our thoughts on our characters and what we’d been daydreaming about them.

What a rare gift, to be able to contribute to the creation of your character! I was both humbled and empowered by the invitation to share my thoughts. My fellow cast mates were the perfect balance of playful and professional, which is the way I’d like to approach every job opportunity from here on out: the more prepared you are, the more flexibility you will have to explore when it comes time to shoot.

When you’re not busy on a set, what are you usually up to?

You can often find me at a play, or a concert, or an improv show. I love live performance.

I’ve also been writing a lot more recently! I’m currently developing a sketch show concept with my writing partner, Elyse Brandau.

When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind?

Any role in a Bridesmaids sequel. Or, a historical costume dramedy, like The Favourite or The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I think it presents an irreplaceable exercise in practicing presence and patience. I keep reflecting on the word “essential,” and what that word means as it pertains to how I get through day to day disappointments and unease. I am being gentler to myself, and finding small ways to control the things I can, then releasing the rest.

Any special message for fans?

To everything, there is a season. This season will pass. In the meantime, perhaps our show will provide a welcome distraction and provide some food for thought along the way. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

THE DAILY SHUFFLE

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haley pham

When it comes to being a self-made powerhouse, Haley Pham knows what she’s talking about. We asked the content creator/entrepreneur/ podcast host all about her endeavors, how she stays sane, and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by PAIGE MILLER

Let’s talk Retro Reprise! What can you tell us about the moment where the clothing line became more than just an idea for you?

Once I told the idea to my management, we figured out the logistics of how I would actually be able to create custom pieces.

We sent in designs and I kept revising and perfecting them from there until the launch!

How long was the line in the works before being released? What would fans be surprised to know about the behind-thescenes process?

It took over a year! By the time we were ready with one company, there were some things that shifted within their business, so we had to switch to a different fulfillment center which added extra time.

What inspired the aesthetic of the line?

What can you tell us about what’s to come for it?

The Memphis Design Movement is what inspired the line. In the Spring, you can look forward to a custom new set! I’m so excited to release that and have everyone see what I’ve been working on!

Who are some of your style icons? Who would you love to share a closet with?

Britt Harvey on Instagram - she has the best style! Oh, and Kendall Jenner, of course!

Tell us about your podcast, Call Me Candid!

What’s been your experience sharing your life/advice on this platform, as opposed to others?

It’s really fun because it feels like a secret club, where we get to tell all of our secrets, and it’s the only platform where we talk about specific subjects.

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

Working out, reading my bible, face-timing my friends, going on runs, and family time.

What’s the best way for fans to get your attention on social media?

Commenting on my Tik Tok or texting my phone number! I try to get back to as many people as I can!

Any special message to fans?

Thank you for giving me my entire world!

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karrie martin

words by VANESSA SALLES photo by LESLIE ALEJANDRO styling by KAREN RAPHAEL hair by DALLIN JAMES make up by MARINA GRAVANI

A fan-favorite on Netflix’s Gentefied, Karrie Martin shines as the relentless, unapologetic Ana Morales. The bilingual comedy, executive produced by America Ferrera, tackles painful issues with wit and warmth and is exactly the kind of TV we need right now. We talked to the rising actress about the importance of representation onscreen, behind-the-scenes set moments and more: What drew you to Gentefied and made you want to be involved?

In all honesty, I had no idea what I was getting myself into at first. I was given a brief breakdown as to who my character was and a set of sides before I went in. But then I met Marvin [Lemus], Linda [Yvette Chávez] and the producers and I was sold.

They are Gentefied. I had never felt such warmth and camaraderie in an audition room, and their energy was off the charts. I felt safe and at home; I knew right then and there that I wanted to do every single day.

Everything that the story is, all the feelings and emotions, are thanks to the heart and care brought by our production team.

Let’s talk about your role as Ana – she is unapologetic about who she is: do you find that you relate to her in this sense?

Yes, Ana is such a dynamic character! I think what I relate to the most is Ana’s directness.

Amongst my family, I’m definitely the most direct, but actually as I think on this question, I’m probably not as direct out in the world.

This is why Ana’s ability to stand in her power has taught me so much about myself and given me such strength and permission to just be completely me anywhere I am. I am definitely finding more of myself as I grow with her.

Though your personal life differs from that of Ana’s, how do you use these differences to fuel your portrayal of her?

That’s a great question. Because we have such different personal lives and come from such different backgrounds, I had to be fully me, while being fully Ana. The set was such a safe place to give myself the permission to drop into who Ana is without judgment and just live life through her eyes. That said, there’s something so incredible about her that even in her weakness, she’s strong. As the oldest of 4 children, I’ve always had this level of “perfection” I thought I had to be; I related and just allowed myself to sit in the mess and truly enjoy it.

What does it mean to you to bring such a strong character to life and have her resonate with viewers?

It means everything to me. Ana means everything to me. She’s educated me, just as she educates and empowers the young girls and women watching. I would not know what I now know without Ana and without this experience. For me to be the portrayal of everything wonderful that she is (strength, power, self-worth) and for it to resonate with others is the greatest honor. Ana being a lesbian, is like me being heterosexual, it’s just

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part of me, but I am more than that just like Ana is more than the labels people put on her. She’s an artist, she’s a daughter, she’s a sister, she’s a fighter, she’s a perfectly beautiful mess that continues to evolve. When telling authentic human stories like this, we get to bridge the gap between the one telling the story and the one watching. People are able to truly see themselves and I believe that’s why so many individuals have related to Gentefied.

What has the reaction been like from viewers so far?

The reaction from viewers has been incredibly positive. I am getting messages from all over the world of people telling me they are so grateful to finally be able to see themselves.

That there is probably the most incredible part of this whole experience. Because of our show, people are feeling understood and they’re seeing different perspectives of life and society and family and it’s all relatable.

Are there any memorable behind-the-scenes moments that you can share with us?

This is definitely not juicy gossip, but more so something I, myself, would’ve loved to read more about as I was coming up in the industry.

So, as you know, actors are in their heads a lot and have moments on set when they’re fighting against the truth of the emotion they’re feeling. For me, in this particular moment, I was in my head about over-emoting.

So, Marta Cunningham, director of Episodes 5 and 6, came up to me and told me to just take a breath and let it go. She gave me the

permission I wasn’t giving myself, which was the exact push I needed. For me, to be able to talk that moment through, be on the same page, and know that was I was feeling was valid and on point truly allowed me to trust myself during the rest of filming.

What would you say was the biggest lesson you learned on the Gentefied set?

How would you describe the vibe on set?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned from this set is to never limit myself. I can do all things through hard work and dedication, in-spite of any labels given to me. The color of my skin, where I’m from or how I speak does not minimize my intelligence or what I’ll accomplish. I determine that. The vibe on set is only defined by one word: FAMILY. And everything that means. It was loud, never felt like work, it was encouraging and it felt like home.

What can you tell us about your experience working with America Ferrera on set?

America was incredible and is so smart!

She had a precise vision and a perfect execution. I will say that, through my casting job, I was blessed to work with some amazingly influential women who’ve shown me firsthand to never cower to anyone or anything, and America was no different. She was a producer, a director and an actress on our set. I learned so much from just watching her move so effortlessly from one thing to another and still maintain her grace and strength. She’s the most epic role model.

If the series is green-lit for a second season, what do you want to see happen

for Ana? Where do you think she stands with Yessika?

I have so many visions for Ana but I would love for her to find herself by losing herself.

I don’t know if that makes sense, but I’d be very into an extreme character arc for her. In regards to Yessika and Ana, I truly don’t know. Her thought process in that last episode is such a mystery and can mean so many different things, so I’m ready for the crazy journey she’s about to embark on!

When you think of your ultimate career goals, what comes to mind?

For starters, getting a season 2 of Gentefied.

This is my first series, so to continue developing this beautiful character I get to play, who’s already stretched who I am as an actor more than I ever thought possible, would be a dream come true. But I also want to do movies! I would love to produce (already have some ideas for this) and possibly direct, nothing is off table.

What have you been loving on TV lately?

Well, it’s no secret that I love love and am a hopeless romantic, so you know that mainly means I love me some Hallmark Channel.

Literally, all day every day. However, in the streaming world, I just finished Elite, which was everything I didn’t think I needed. I’m currently on Ozark, I know I’m late, but it’s so good and extremely suspenseful. I’m also all about a solid documentary, and Netflix has some of the best. In my personal opinion, I think the content being created is slowly but surely becoming more diversified, so it’s a great time to create and put yourself out there.

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How have you been dealing with staying sane at home during these unprecedented times?

Like many, this time has for sure been more of a struggle than I expected. I’m very open about my faith and that’s truly what I’ve been clinging to to stay above water. I highly recommend devotionals as they create a wonderful routine, which is what I thrive on in times like this. I’m also blessed to be back home in Louisiana with my family, so that in itself has been very helpful. We’ve taken to puzzles, long (socially-distanced) walks/ bike rides in our neighborhood and taken drives to our family farm to get some fresh air. My cast mates and I have made it a thing to stay in touch and be connected, as well.

But I’ve definitely allowed myself to be lazy and be gentle with everything that’s been happening because the emotions appear like a rollercoaster sometimes.

Any special message for fans/viewers?

First of all, thank y’all so, so much for all the love, all the support and all of the beautiful messages of encouragement you send me on a daily basis. If I were to send y’all any piece of advice, it would be to never give up and keep dreaming. It’s not going be easy, and it may hurt some, but keeping that faith brings about some of the most wonderful blessings. You are enough, you are powerful, you are perfectly imperfect and can do whatever you set your mind to with hard work and determination.

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DRESS ALDUK SHOES SCHUTZ JEWELRY QUORE JEWELRY

mahogany lox

Best described as a force to be reckoned with, Mahogany LOX is taking over the music scene one release at a time. We talked to the songstress about her latest release, fan love, and more! words by VANESSA SALLES courtesy of MAHOGANY LOX

Tell us about your new single, ‘SIKE’! What’s the story behind the track?

“Sike” is definitely a confidence anthem! I wrote “Sike” for the person who sings it to sing it to themselves and feel confident! I want to be able to help anyone that struggles with confidence and let them know that it’s okay to feel emotions but to also know that they’re amazing and shouldn’t let any negative comments bring them down.

Any memorable moments while writing/ recording that you can share with us?

Yes! Recording the crying verses for “Sike” was very interesting. I’ve never cried on a track before so making the transition from my crying verses (my vulnerable self) to my rap verses (my confident self) was a really memorable experience.

What has the reaction been like from fans so far?

The reaction to both “Take Your Man” & “Sike” have been amazing! The LOXSmiths seem to really like them and I could not be happier about that!

How would you describe your creative process when making music?

I would describe my process as creative, organic and fun. Before going into the studio, I talk to my producer about the type of sound I’m looking for. Once I get to the studio, we come up with the concept, the story and a general idea of where I want the song to go.

After that, we get to writing and the song is born!

When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by?

When it comes to staging, I’m inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, LMFAO, Beyoncé, J. LO, Katy Perry and many more!

When you think of your ultimate career goals, what comes to mind?

My ultimate career goal over the next 5 years would be to create, write and perform great songs. I really want my songs to connect with my LOXSmiths worldwide. I would also love to tour the world, so I can meet and hug them all!

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I binge-watch a WHOLE bunch of Netflix shows with my boyfriend. We really enjoyed Love is Blind, The Circle, Tiger King, Ozark and now we are on to 90 Day Fiancé: Before The 90 Days! I’m also writing some new songs and creating new DJ sets to keep myself busy!

What’s the best way for fans to get your attention on social media?

Honestly, just by talking to me through my socials! I really love building friendships this way!

Any special message to fans?

LOXSMITHS! I love you all so much and I can’t wait to share this new project I’m working on with you, it’s a fun one!

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fola evansakingbola

Best known for her role as Maddie Bishop on Freeform’s hit series Siren, Fola Evans-Akingbola shines both on and off screen. We talked to the actress about set secrets, what’s to come, and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by ANDREW MACPHERSON

Let’s talk Siren! Without giving too much away, what should fans be expecting from the rest of season 3?

A lot of irreversible change! By the end of the season, let’s just say things will never be the same. I think the audience will be interested to see how the divide between Ben, Maddie and Ryn increases.

Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments from filming that you can share with us?

We are mostly very professional but occasionally, we get the giggles and just can’t stop laughing during a scene! Alex and I having to pretend to enjoy Ryn’s marshmallow chicken in episode 1 was pretty hilarious, but luckily our character’s were allowed to find the whole thing funny too.

Being three seasons in, what’s been your favorite part about Maddie’s evolution/ development and bringing her to life?

I have enjoyed exploring how much Maddie has learned from Ryn. Ryn is the perfect demonstration of what it means to fully inhabit your power and stand up for yourself. She exudes confidence whilst still being loving and sensitive and I think Maddie has had to learn that you can still be loving and patient whilst protecting your own boundaries. In season 1, Maddie was loyal, almost to a fault. She had no problem putting everyone else’s needs and desires in front of her own. This season, I think we see that Maddie is starting to draw a line in the sand. There are certain things that just don’t sit with her and she won’t go along with

them. She’s now comfortable with distancing herself from what she isn’t okay with, even if that means losing something she loves.

How would you describe the dynamic between Maddie and Ryn this season?

I feel Maddie and Ryn shift into a deeper friendship this season. Difficulties between Ben and Maddie force a change between Maddie and Ryn. Maddie and Ryn have to trust that they have a solid foundation and friendship that will always be there even if they are no longer in this ‘throuple’.

How would you describe the vibe on set & how you all bond off screen?

We’ve all been on this wonderful journey together and have seen each other grow as people, as actors and as characters. It really is like a family on set and I’m including the crew in that. We have the most amazing crew, most of whom have been with the show since Season 1 and they are integral to creating the relaxed and supportive vibe on set. We all really care about doing the work and I think that helps keep us all focused on what matters which is telling the story in the best way we can.

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I have to acknowledge that I have the luxury and privilege to be able to embrace this situation and fully relax. I’m reading lots of books, watching movies, binging TV shows and taking a step back from the depleting ‘grind’

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liddy clark

If Liddy Clark isn’t already on your radar, it’s time to change that. The rising singer talked to us about her inspirations, creative process and more! words by VANESSA SALLES courtesy of LIDDY CLARK

Tell us about your single “Hit & Run” – what’s the story behind the track?

I came into the studio that day looking to write around this hook: “It was a lie, it was a fairytale, the shortest one, it was a Hit & Run”.

I brought it up to my cowriters and we immediately felt like we could relate to the concept as a metaphor for relationships we had been in. It was completely finished by the end of the session and I’ve been performing it out ever since!

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments while writing/recording it?

We actually produced this track several times over the past few years so I have quite a few memories recording this track! Most recently, we were recording this track in L.A. last fall during one of the tracking days for my album.

It was pretty late, but we managed to finish 4 different tracks that day!

What is the creative process usually like for you?

Usually, I’ll come up with a melody or hook first. I really like to start with the title of a song so I can know what I’m working towards. After that, I’ll usually grab my guitar and figure out where I want the song to go, instrumentally.

How would you describe your personal sound?

I’m influenced by a lot of different genres; I’d say my sound is chill west-coast pop, while influenced by my country roots in Texas.

Which artist(s) do you have on repeat at the moment?

Currently have the new albums by Lennon Stella, Niall Horan, and Lauv on repeat! So much good music is coming out right now!

During these unprecedented times, how are you dealing with staying sane at home?

I’m trying to keep myself as busy as possible!

I started working out more, cooking at home, making friendship bracelets, and watching movies with my roommates.

With a growing following on social media, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention online?

I love responding to fans via DM’s! It’s super personal & as close as we can get to having one on one conversations nowadays! I also really love interacting with fan edits with lyrics of my songs!

What’s up next for you, music-wise?

I’m finishing up recording my album during this quarantine! It’s really exciting because my producer is working remotely from Nashville while I’m recording my vocals out here in L.A. I can’t wait to share the finished product with y’all!

Any special message for fans?

Keep holding on everyone! It can get tough staying inside all of the time so make sure you’re able to get some sun and movement in your body each day. That’s been such a help for me & I sincerely hope you all stay safe (and sane) during these times.

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MAY 2020

What to watch

The High Note, 5/29

Dead to Me: Season 2, 5/2

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend, 5/12

What to listen to

Kehlani - It Was Good Until It Wasn’t 5/8

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Lady Gaga - Chromatica 5/29

Noah Reid - Gemini 5/29

TDS IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT!

THE DAILY SHUFFLE APRIL 2020

PAULINA CHÁVEZ

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