THE PIANIST- KEN POWE
DID YOU HEAR ABOUT KITTY CAR? - CRYSTAL SMITH PAUL
RICHARD SHAW JR-INDIE OF THE MONTH
MAURICE CHRISTIAN OF "THE DELFONICS
ANGELA'S LITERARY CAFEOLIVIA SHAW REEL
TERAH SHELTON HARRISONE SUMMER WITH TERAH
PETTY IN PINKNAYOMI CHARNELLE'S CELEB COLUMN
DIGITAL FOREPLAYKISHA GREEN
TASTEFUL TIPS & TRIPSROBIN SHOCKLEY
WOMEN IN HIP HOPJAY MADHATTER
AND SO MUCH MORE.....
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
42
34
Karyn
46 Exclusive Interview: Maurice Christian of "The Delfonics" by Alexander Wyeth
5 Editor's Note
7 Author of The Month: Crystal Smith Paul-The Novelist Did you hear about Kitty Carr?
10 INDIE SPOTLIGHT: Richard Shaw Jr. Saxophonist
13 THS's Monthly Shine Column: Lissha Sadler-The Plug
15 The Creatives: Ken Powe
20 PETTY IN PINK: Celebrity News Nayomi Chanelle spills the tea once again.
23 Trending on Riches in Reading: New Book Releases
26 Exclusive Interview: Maurice Christian of "The Delfonics" by Alexander Wyeth
29 Digital Foreplay: 1 + 1 = 3
30 Tasteful Tips & Trips: Robin Shockley's latest
32 Angela's Literary Cafe: Hero for Sale by Olivia Shaw Reel
The Hip Hop Corner Women in Hip Hop: The Rise and Fall of The Queen 38 One Summer with TerahBIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! WE TRULY APPRECIATE YOUR HARDWORK AND CONTINUED SUPPORT.
ADVERTISING & PROMOTION TB Productions Media Group
COPYRIGHTS
The Heat Seekers Magazine is owned by Teresa B. Howell and Teresa B. Productions. The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith
All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.
ANGELA ANDERSON
NAYOMI CHARNELLE KENYATTA INGRAM
ROBIN SHOCKLEY
KISHA GREEN
LISSHA SADLER
TERESA B. HOWELL
KING BROOKS LASHEERA LEE
JAY MADHATTER Petty in Pink Riches in Reading
Entertainment Professional Robin’s Tasteful Tips & Trips Hardcore Grind
Entertainment Professional Digital Foreplay
Founder & CEO/Graphic Designer TB Productions @teresabhowell
Black Page Turners Mad Muzik ENT
Cool Conversations with LaSheera Lee
Angela Anderson Presents Angela’s Literary Cafe & Book Reviews
As the Founder and CEOof The Heat Seekers publication, I will continue to spotlight individuals in theater, film, music, and literary works. The THS team works diligently to ensure that every story, ad, review, and feature will be unique and diverse for all readers. We are now a 2022 recipient of The Atlanta Hottest award due to our fresh and intriguing editorials. I am honored and privileged to have an award-winning magazine that sparks the interests of readers worldwide. We are spotlighted in over 19 countries and an estimateof10Kreaderseachyear.
Thank you for your continued support as we continue to show the world that we can enlighten, educate, and praise others by pushing them to their greatest potential. We thrive on lifting each other up and helping all to evolve and shine. We are the light of the world and we will continue to push, motivate, and inspireotherstoBRINGTHEHEAT.
IamaHeatSeeker…withextraordinarytalents.Sohelpmecelebratetheotherswithinthispublicationthat arealsoHEATSEEKERSwithextraordinarytalentstoo.
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TeresaB Howell
Teresa B. Howell Editor
Crystal Smith Paul is a native of Charlotte, NC, with an eclectic background in writing, editing, television and film, and digital media She attended Spelman College, UCLA’s School of Film and Television, and has a Master’s in journalism from NYU
Crystal is no stranger to the written word, as her nonfiction writing has appeared in publications such as Salon and the Huffington Post Being creative at heart, Crystal has an artistic way of utilizing her knowledge and skills to bring out her creative side in the world of fiction Recently, she made her fiction debut with a gripping, edge-of-yourseat page-turner that was selected by Reese Witherspoon as Reese’s Book Club pick for the month of May
Crystal spends her weekends writing, staying wellinformed, and tuning in to pop culture Spending time with her family and enjoying dining are a few things that she relishes
The Heat Seekers Magazine had the opportunity to interview Crystal Smith Paul and talk about her as a writer and her new novel
Angela Anderson: When did you know you wanted to become a writer?
Crystal Smith Paul: I’ve known I wanted to be a writer since I was a little girl Writing a novel, specifically, has always been my dream, although I dabbled in screenwriting and worked in journalism before focusing on the book that would become Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?
AA: What do you enjoy about being a writer?
CSP: I most enjoy the actual work of writing the process of creating a story and the way the plot and characters reveal themselves over time. Writing is a spiritual experience for me, and I am always in awe as the story world develops.
AA: How would you describe your writing style?
CSP: In four words: analytical, visual, contemporary, and nostalgic I’m focused on how the past affects the present and, more specifically, how race and racism impact society, but also the individual.
AA: Do you have a writing tagline to describe your stories?
CSP: I don’t have a tagline, but in general, I strive to incite conversation and encourage empathy.
AA: What was one surprising thing you learned about yourself during your writing journey?
CSP: My best ideas come during the revision/editing stages. I’ve learned to rely on the fact that there’s always something more to discover about the story world you’ve built. In writing Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? characters like Lillian really blossomed during the revision of the scenes in Charlotte, NC Editing gave me the creative space to go deeper into Lillian’s experience off the page, which helped readers to understand her behavior in later chapters
AA: You have written a dual-timeline Historical Fiction novel, which is an amazing accomplishment. What is something you know now about writing Historical Fiction but wish you would have learned sooner?
CSP: Thank you! I wish I would have understood earlier that reading other novels written within your novel’s period(s) of focus can also help the research.
AA: What are some of your writing must-haves when you are working on a manuscript?
CSP: I must have background noise except music which distracts me, my laptop/iPad, a pen/notebook, and a hard copy of the manuscript, which contains all of my plot points and story notes. I most often write at home with the television on, but I also enjoy writing at a cute coffee shop with good pastries.
AA: If you had to give one piece of advice to new authors, what would it be?
CSP: It’s important to connect with other authors for guidance and support during the publication process. There’s so much to learn from your publisher and agent, but only another author knows how it feels to put your work out into the world and understands the unique challenges that come with that. Building your writing community is essential for new friendships, getting new opportunities, and developing a support base.
AA: This is an exciting time for you! Your multigenerational saga, Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?, was released during the month of May. What was the inspiration behind this story?
CSP: The inspirations behind Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? was born out of my life and the lives of my grandmothers to whom I dedicated the book I grew up in North Carolina and went to college/grad school in Los Angeles and New York all places where timelines the book takes place. My great-grandmother was a maid and worked seasonally in a tobacco factory. My paternal grandmother was an enigma headstrong and hardworking like Kitty Karr My maternal grandmother was passable like Kitty Karr but did not pass. The Black experience was often a topic of discussion in the homes I frequented, and race was at the forefront of my experience. This book is my fictionalized dive into the layers of an American family tree and me trying to fill in the leaves of my own Outside of personal experience, my biggest inspirations were the 1959 movie The Imitation of Life and the story of Ellen and William Craft, a married runaway couple that escaped slavery by her passing as a White man and him as her slave
The Heat Seekers: Tell us about yourself?
Richard Shaw: I am a loving father of two children and a husband of one wife. I was born and raised in Atlanta Ga and graduated from an HBCU Tennessee State University!
THS: Who is Richard Shaw?
RS: I am a musical conduit that releases positive vibes to nature and people of all walks of life
THS: How did you get your start in music industry?
RS: I actually physically developed an interest in music at the age of 10. I was attending a Boy Scouts camping trip and my Scout leader had smooth jazz playing on the radio and I asked what instrument is that and he told me the saxophone. The rest is history haha!
THS: What made you decide to be serious about playing the saxophone?
RS: There was a young man by the name of Richard that attended my Elementary school who played the saxophone in our gymnasium at the time in front of the entire student and teacher board I was so impressed by the way everyone was captivated by his melodies that it made me want to do the same thing.
THS: Did you emulate anyone that you admired?
RS: Yes Richard (the elementary saxophonist) at the time and then other influences came about later.
THS: Which person/people or books have had the most influence on your career and why?
RS: Jamey Abersold books and Dr. Myles Munroe books One book focuses on musical skills and the other book focuses on spiritual skills.
will want to quit but if you identify your WHY in the beginning no matter what comes your way you will not succumb to failure by quitting.
THS: What are you working on that you can talk about? New music?
RS: I am currently working on new music as I type that will be released soon!
THS: Please list your website and/or your social media platforms.
RS: My website is www richardshawjr com
THS: What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps?
RS:I will be honest with them and let them know on this journey there is going to come a point and time where you
Lissha is a producer and co-host on the popular twotime award-winning show, Let's Chat and now Hardcore Grind Podcast. Coined the "Literary Plug" by many of her clients, Lissha is CEO of Intriguing Moves Inc, her umbrella company for Intriguing Moves PR, Divaz Lit, and Intriguing Pens Publications She is also the Editor-and-Chief of Hardcore Grind Magazine As a social media manager, author advocate, and literary consultant Lisshaloves to experience clients' passion for their craft.
TBH: You wear many hats. Please tell us what inspired you.
LS: Well, it depends on the hat. For instance, launching Visions and Books in 2016 was a significant accomplishment I am going on my 3rd year with new elements being added to the experience This book expo is near and dear to me because I wanted to create a space for readers, blessing them with a 31 Flavor Reading Experience and love-on authors for their hard work while giving back to the community. With the launch of Hardcore Grind Magazine and Podcast, the inspiration came from being able to experience a client’s Vision and their “Why.” I love helping people expand their brands and birth their purpose
TBH: With the Pandemic making it impossible for many to survive, how did you?
LS: I disagree that the Pandemic made it impossible for everyone to survive, but in my opinion what it did do was cause many people to think outside the box to survive, grow and heal. Many of us had to finally sit still and start manifesting the things in our life that we want to see Me, I worked from home most of the Pandemic, but I still used that time to learn how to heal myself inside and out. Becoming more laserfocused on my vision and more intentional with my moves.
TBH: How did you get your idea or concept for the businesses?
LS: Everything I do ties together and is all part of my master plan, which is to be a continuous blessing to others. Whether it is media, publishing, my Nonprofit, events, or PR work, I know what I want to do, and sometimes I have to take bold steps to make things happen Right now, my focus is Hardcore Grind Magazine and Podcast. The magazine is in print quarterly now and available on Amazon, in 2024, due to the overwhelming support and requests, it will be published monthly.
TBH: What service(s) or product(s) do you offer/manufacture?
LS: Many clients come through word of mouth most of the time so it depends on what their need is, I do a little bit of everything. I want people to expand their brands and grow their businesses. I use marketing and media to promote clients via podcast interviews, magazine articles, etc.
TBH: Which Three Adjectives Describe Your Strengths?
LS: Tenacious because when I’m determined, I don’t stop Courageous, I am not afraid to take bold steps in the dark. And I am also very ambitious.
TBH: If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting, what would it be?
LS: Never be afraid to take bold steps in the dark to achieve your goals and aspirations. You must move your feet even while loving your current position in life Your elevation in life is a necessity for success
TBH: When people think of you, what do you want to be known for?
LS: Being the Plug....lol! Know, seriously I want to be known for being a great resource that connects people and helps build brands.
Ken Powe is a recording artist and music producer from Birmingham, Alabama. He attended The University of Alabama and earned a BA and MA in English and an MBA.
Ken studied classical piano at age 8 and began his experience in live performance by playing in recitals He learned to play other instruments in elementary and high school, where he was required to learn the rudiments of every brass and string instrument and sing lead tenor in his high school concert choir which toured nationally By the age of 16, he began playing trombone professionally with the Birmingham Heritage Band a group of Big Band jazz players composed of instrumentalists who actually played with Golden Age Jazz legends like Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Erskine Hawkins and played piano and organ for Gospel groups and churches
After college, Ken played keyboards in cover bands and stood out to audiences and other musicians because of his signature classical and jazz influenced improvisational style. This led to him becoming a side man and backup keyboardist to some of the most well-known Pop, R&B, Blues and Gospel artists in the 90’s when they were on tour in the Southeast. He began recording with some of these artists and then used his musical knowledge and versatility to become a music producer and Vice President/A&R of a record label that specialized in Urban music.
From broadcast videos and live recordings, people in other countries began to take notice of Ken’s skills as a classical, jazz and Gospel pianist In 2003, he began performing solo concerts on the grand piano in Europe, traveling to Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, France and Great Britain Until the pandemic year of 2020, he would perform in Europe every year to standing room only audiences in cathedrals, palaces and concert halls
In 2009, Ken began a new journey into becoming a solo recording artist when he wrote, produced, engineered and played every instrument on his debut album, Journey (as Kenneth Powe), a compilation of acoustic and electronic spa music After Journey, Ken wrote and produced songs for many Smooth Jazz artists from his home and later released his own Smooth Jazz album in 2016, Conception. This album, though not very well known except to a number of college radio listeners in the US, was nonetheless critically acclaimed and earned Ken his first Grammy consideration in 2017. His second Grammy consideration came in 2018 with the release of his second Smooth Jazz album, Misinformation Age. His breakout hit, “First Love,” came with his fourth studio album, Steppin’, which garnered much praise and a following on YouTube along with unprecedented commercial success. In all, Ken recorded, produced and independently released five Smooth Jazz albums as a solo artist over a period of seven years
Ken Powe’s current album is On the Level which was released in February 2023 The first release from this project is “Amore Roma” and has gotten a tremendous response from Smooth Jazz listeners
around the world Since its release, it has been ranked by listeners among the Top 50 current Smooth Jazz songs globally according to SmoothJazz com
THS: You have been in the industry for decades, tell us what made you decide to be serious about the music industry?
KP: Playing music and performing are what I enjoy doing most of all. I believed doing it as a career would make me happy..
THS: You have had great success over the years with many artists. Tell us more about your experiences?
KP: Although I don’t drop names, I can say that I got the opportunity to play with some of the biggest R&B artists around back in the 90’s as a backup keyboardist and recording session artist
THS: What has been the most memorable moment for you while working with artists?
KP: Meeting Beyonce and Jay-Z at the Grammys in 2017.
TTHS: Who has had the most influence on your career and why?
KP: Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff They made me want to be a music producer because their gift was composing and arranging songs made popular by iconic artists that everyone loved.
THS: What keeps you going when things get tough in the business?
KP: Faith. Acting on what I believe even though everything and everyone tells me to quit.
THS: What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps?
KP: Be your own person Don’t try to be like other people even if they are successful Individuality, not imitation, is greatness
THS: What does a typical day in your week look like for you?
KP: I’m usually struggling to find a balance between my artistic expression, business interests and taking care of my father and aunt who both have dementia.
THS: Did you have a “I want to give up” moment in your career?
KP: Yes, many times I recorded four solo albums before I charted my first song. Radio stations, promoters and booking venues all ignored me.
THS: What does the future hold for Ken Powe?
KP: A brief concert tour in Germany coming in August (first since The Pandemic); publish my manuscript of a novel I finished last year; resume background acting in Atlanta for TV shows and movies; finish working on my erotic fiction.
THS: How can fans reach you on social media?
KP: Instagram: KenP keys; TikTok: @KenPowekeyartist; Twitter:@KenP918; Facebook: Ken Powe (personal), Smooth Jazz by Ken Powe(artist page)
THS: Any golden nuggets you would like to share with your fans?
KP: Once did a cameo on the hit TV series, P-Valley. Had an off-screen interaction with one of the lead actresses.
Are you an educator doing extraordinary tasks outside of the classroom? Are you full of talents and gifts, but are being unnoticed? The Educator Magazine was created for you!
If your have interest of being featured, contact Teresa B. at: info@teresabhowell.com
Soon fans can enjoy her new single “Love Feels Right” worldwide
Albuquerque, NM – Elysé, singer-songwriter signs an agreement with Sony Mu- sic’s The Orchard to distribute her music. This agreement was setup through her manager, David R. Navarro and entertainment professional, Teresa B. Howell of TB Productions Media Group in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Orchard, now in its 27th year, is a full-service music distribution company oper- ating in more than 45 cities worldwide The Orchard’s comprehensive artist & label services offering harnesses innovative technology, transparent data analysis, and expertise to reach fans and grow audiences Offerings include digital and physical sales and marketing, advertising, sync and brand partnerships, rights management, video monetization, collaborator splits and royalty accounting, publishing adminis- tration and more. The Orchard empowers creators and entrepreneurs to grow and adapt in the dynamic, global industry. The Orchard is a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment.
Professional pianist, Tenia Renee Nelson honored with the 2023 Jazz Journalist Association Hero Award. She was nominated by David Froman.
About Tenia Renee Nelson
Over 20 years experience in Music Education and has been playing piano pro- fessionally in Colorado for 24 years Tenia is a true believer in advocating for Music Education, creative rights, helping music people in need and promoting diversity and inclusion Slated for Governor Seat in the 2023 Recording Acad- emy / GRAMMYs San Francisco Chapter Board Elections. urrently a Recording Academy / GRAMMYs Mentor.
MICHELLE BROOKS-THOMPSON FILMS A SEGMENT FOR POLLYWOG POND ON PBS KIDS
Gospel Singer, Michelle Brooks-Thompson films her segment for Polly- wog Pond on PBS Kids in Phode Island.
Elysé’s new single, “Love Feels Right” many local and national musicians including the talented singer-songwriter and accomplished guitarist, David Turner of Nothing But Groove. Along with Mikey Wright (The Voice) on guitar, Kim Stone (Spiro Gyra) on bass, Chuck Lucero (Music Producer) on Drums, John Elias (Harry Connick, Jr & Don Henley) on saxophone, Robert Muller on keyboard, and Vicente Garcia on har- monica. Recorded at Third Eye Studio by Robert Trundle and David Turner’s studio, BluezGtrDave in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The music was mixed and mastered by music industry professional, Chuck Lucero.
Kim Stone, professional bassist says, “Elysé, a remarkable new talent with one of the most powerful and souful voices I’ve heard in many many years ”
With new music distribution, Elysé is on track to share her low, sultry vocals, and her soulful guitar licks with the world.
Elysé to release new single, “Love Feels Right” through Sony/The Orchard at the end of the month on all streaming platforms worldwide.
Elysé is a singer-songwriter and a creative prodigy. She has a blues-rock sound and is based in New Mexico. For more information, call 720-261-0968 or at: dave.designprint@gmail.com
The unfortunate and untimely death of “Wild N Out star and long-time partner of seven years with Actor/Comedian DC Yung Fly sent shock waves through all social media sites and on-air media outlets nationwide Jacky died on May 31st, 2023. She was found nonresponsive in a Miami hotel room after having a Mommy Makeover. These surgeries usually involve tummy tucks and breast augmentation however, some clients may ask for liposuction and other procedures done. DC and Jacky shared 3 beautiful children named Nova, Nala, and Prince.
This remains to be seen since one of his patients passed away shortly after him performing the surgery. We wish DC Yung y and his family peace as they grieve over their loss.
Allegedly, the doctor who performed her procedure, had multiple complaints about his work from other clients. No charges have been brought against the doctor. He took to Instagram stating his patients receive the “highest quality of medical care”
The US Justice Department will not bring any charges against The Cabo 6. They claim there wasn’t enough evidence to bring any charges against the people who participated in the demise of Shanquella Robinson of Charlotte, NC Shanquella went on a trip with some socalled friends last year to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Unfortunately, she was killed. A video
surfaced showing her being beaten by one of her so-called friends whose name is Deajanee Jackson. The 6 friends told her parents that she died of alcohol poisoning which was a bald-faced lie!
So… We have some street justice going on!
Some of the Cabo 6 decided to hang out at a restaurant named Electric Tequela in Greensboro, NC thinking it was ok. They were recognized as the killers of Shanquella and were heard “Poppin’ Off” and got some paws put on them. Wenter Donovan, Alyssa Hyatt, and Deajane Jackson were jumped by some of the locals. They were body slammed and kicked in the face. All I could say was “Ummm Where was all that energy when you were beating on your friend Shanquella? I know “vengeance is mine” says the Lord but sometimes that street justice might come in handy very once in a while. We are still praying for Justice for Shanquella Robinson!
The US Justice Department will not bring any charges against The Cabo 6. They claim there wasn’t enough evidence to bring any charges against the people who participated in the demise of Shanquella Robinson of Charlotte, NC. Shanquella went on a trip with some so-called friends last year to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Unfortunately, she was killed. A video surfaced showing her being beaten by one of her so-called friends whose name is Deajanee Jackson. The 6 friends told her parents that she died of alcohol poisoning which was a bald-faced lie!
So… We have some street justice going on! Some of the Cabo 6 decided to hang out at a restaurant named Electric Tequela in Greensboro, NC thinking it was ok. They were recognized as the killers of Shanquella and were heard “Poppin’ Off” and got some paws put on them. Wenter Donovan, Alyssa Hyatt, and Deajane Jackson were jumped by some of the locals. They were body slammed and kicked in the face. All I could say was “Ummm Where was all that energy when you were beating on your friend Shanquella? I know “vengeance is mine” says the Lord but sometimes that street justice might come in handy very once in a while. We
are still praying for Justice for Shanquella Robinson!
That’s right! The Puerto Rican Princess was arrested a few days ago for battery charges including assaulting a police officer. She was caught on video ghting one of the members from her show “Joselines Caberet Atlanta” called Big Lex backstage after the Floyd Merriweather ght. She was arrested and charged with 4 different charges as follows: Domestic Violence, Battery, trespassing, and resisting arrest with violence toward a police officer. We are not surprised Joseline has been arrested for ghting. This woman has been ghting since she rst appeared on Love and Hip Hop Atlanta. Why would we expect her to stop? It’s just who she is and what she does. If she does some time behind bars, she will denitely be able to indulge in all the ghts she wants to.
Sources:
Stormy Monroe YouTube
Channel NC Beat
The Empressive YouTube Channel
Girls in search of cover is a novel set against the back drop of three generations of women scarred by rape. It dramatizes a girl's journey through the belly of the beast and her triumph above the brutal legacy of her matriarchs.
Carmia is a troubled young African-American girl whose drug-addicted mother relocates Carmia and her brother to Bovina, Mississippi—a deeply religious backwater where they all move in with Carmia's grandmother, Ma Evans.
Carmia grows up an outsider in Bovina. Mother Johns, a conniving church leader with a dark hatred for Ma Evans, convinces the community that Ma Evans’ entire bloodline, including Carmia, is cursed.
After a series of tragic deaths, Carmia begins to think so too. As a teenager faced with a life of violence, church hurt and sexual trauma, will her hope of a better life be enough for her to overcome? Will the voices of her ancestors (spiritual cloud of witnesses), give her strength enough to escape the abuse her matriarchs suffered?
Why Am I Like This? seminary-trained, licensed trauma therapist Kobe Campbell helps us understand why it’s so hard to break these patterns as she offers us a deeper understanding of how our past shapes our present. With tender wisdom, rare vulnerability, and profound honesty, Kobe reminds each reader that they’re not alone, empowering them to step into healing with evidence-based, faith-filled coping skills and resources.
Gain an understanding of what trauma and healing really are, explore the roots of your dysfunctional patterns, learn how your trauma shows up in your everyday life, and find trauma-informed, faith-based coping mechanisms to heal your mind and deepen your intimacy with God.
$12.00 @www.richersinreading.com
$18.34 @www.richersinreading.com (Autographed)
New Christian convert Tally Gilbert knows the power of prayer and the pain of walking away. She’s witnessed family and friends' healing, salvation, and deliverance. There’s one holdout, and he’s at the top of her prayer list. The love of her life, Randall Addams, won’t surrender to the Lord, so Tally ends the relationship. What will it take for Randall to turn to God? Will Tally’s prayers be answered, or will Randall and their love be lost forever?
(Available at richesinreading.com) (Available at richesinreading.com)
Erika Cartledge, style expert and image architect, is cultivating confidence through fashion and style daily in her line of work and business She is on a mission to ensure you look your best and, more importantly, feel your best With her experience, skills, and positive mindset, she helps others to “unleash their most powerful style, strut confidently into every room, and boost their confidence in themselves and their wardrobe decisions.”
From personal styling to photo shoot and event styling, Erika is passionate about delivering quality service, providing a unique, elegant, and chic experience to each of her clients, and giving them a mind and body experience from the inside out Erika has also partnered with corporations, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations, providing keynote addresses and engaging workshops to enhance their knowledge of style and stimulate self-confidence.
With no signs of slowing down, the Washington, DC-based CEO and fashionista is living her dream and changing lives simultaneously with the Your Chic is Showing brand and business
Angela Anderson: What inspired the birth of your business?
Erika Cartledge: Your Chic is Showing (YCS) started as a fashion and lifestyle blog in 2012. As I got up and running, I had a friend who was a sports agent and worked with new NBA players. He reached out and asked me if I could help get some clothing that met the league’s dress code requirements at the time. I said “yes” but honestly had no idea what I was doing Up until that point, I had only ever styled myself and my friends But I took on the challenge, got expert guidance from a gentleman at the King of Prussia Mall Ralph Lauren store, charged way too little, and learned so much! After that experience, I was hooked on the process -- choosing outfits, building confidence, helping people articulate their style -- but not on NBA players! Since that time, I’ve focused on helping entrepreneurs, mompreneurs, c-suite executives, and highperforming professionals elevate their style.
AA: What is the mission of Your Chic is Showing?
EC: The mission of YCS is to help women cultivate confidence through fashion and style.
AA: What’s the story behind the name, Your Chic is Showing?
EC: Honestly, I wish it was such an amazing story or aha moment. But it really just was born out of a joke at a gas station, haha! I knew I wanted to start a fashion and style blog but wasn’t sure what to call it. I was with a friend, and we saw a woman pumping gas in really short shorts, and my friend goes, “Her cheek is showing.” And, well, the rest is history; your Chic is Showing was born. I guess I actually owe a massive thank you to that woman!
AA: What aspect of the business do you enjoy?
EC: The best moment is always the “moment of transformation ” It’s the instant a client clearly “sees” themselves for the first time There is a spark, joy, and confidence that is finally realized It never, ever, ever gets old Also, shopping and playing dress-up are realllllllyyy fun
AA: What can customers expect from the Your Chic is Showing brand?
EC: Ultimately, the goal is for YCS clients to not only look their best but, more importantly, feel their best. Each day I strive to provide a unique, elegant, and chic experience to each of my clients by delivering exceptional service. Whether you are a VIP styling client or in my group style coaching program, I want every person to know how valuable they are to me and the YCS community. Anyone who follows me on social media knows that I share empowering content, and that’s because that is, at my core, who I am and what this business is about.
AA: How would you describe the Your Chic is Showing experience?
EC: My clients joke that I put the “therapy” in “retail therapy.” That’s because 20% of what I do is about the clothes you wear, and 80% of it is about what you feel on the inside. If you don’t deal with what’s on the inside, you’ll never be able to show up as the most powerful and authentic version of yourself -- even if you have the world’s most stylish wardrobe
AA: You also have the “Chic Squad” style coaching. Tell us about this program.
EC: The Chic Squad is an exclusive group style coaching program designed to give you access to a personal stylist, help guide you through daily and weekly wardrobe decisions, encourage a positive relationship between you and your body, reframe your mindset around your personal style, and connect you with other positive, supportive, and like-minded style enthusiasts The best point is that it’s an incredible, accessible price point - so even the most budget conscious fashionistas can afford to join us
AA: What is one piece of advice you would share for new small business owners who are just getting started?
EC: Done is better than perfect Get rid of the idea that you have to be perfect before you launch, before you sell, before you scale, before you do anything Do the thing and then refine it based on the results Even a spectacular fail (and trust me, I have racked up PLENTY of those!) is just an opportunity to take the information you learned and make a new decision. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to make progress.
AAA: It is a new season; summer has arrived. What do you enjoy about this time of year?
EC: I love summer evenings I love hanging out, having a cold drink, and “being ” I’m also a water baby, so get me near any body of water (pool, lake, beach), and I’m happy!
AA: What is one summer styling tip you can share with us?
EC: It’s actually a tip for other seasons, but about your summer clothes don’t pack your summer clothes away Layer them with sweaters, blazers, jackets, turtlenecks, boots, tights, etc , and wear them well into Fall and Winter Summer clothing is actually some of the most versatile clothing you can own because you can add to it to get more use out of it!
AA: What’s next for Your Chic is Showing?
EC: I’m so excited to be bringing seasonal lookbooks! I used to offer customized, shoppable lookbooks, but as my business grew, I couldn’t keep up with demand and serve my full-service clients well. But now, they’re back as a stand-alone service. Starting July 1, 2023, the lookbooks will be available for purchase. They will include 20-40 individual pieces for you to shop, 4-6 outfit ideas for you to style using your new pieces, style tips to help you dress your body, and style enhancer (i e , boob tape, shapewear, etc ) recommendations to make sure your pieces look their best I’m so glad I can bring this back for people who want to partner with YCS but may not want to commit to a 3-6 styling package
AA: How can people stay connected with you?
EC: Please come hang out with me on Instagram (instagram.com/yourchicisshowing), Facebook (facebook.com/yourchicisshowing), or by joining the Chic Squad (https://yourchicisshowing.com/chicsquad/).
Here's somethin' I want to say Try and understand
There's another in my life
He's my lover, and I'm your wife
The opening lines to the hit song, "You, Me & He" by Mtume, say a lot, and initially, we were all listening, trying to understand, but what the wife was trying to ask permission for was to have two.
So much tension cause we're livin' a lie by and by Woah, woah, woah, not to mention Can we give it a try?
When the subject arises, men quickly say yes, often leaving their mate questioning whether they were satisfied previously, and females are quick to decline, opening Pandora's Box. When a female says yes to the extra party coming into their bedroom, it is at her mate's request, not hers
Also, let me add that once either party has stepped outside the relationship, it is now a threesome since there is a third party, whether invited or not
Introducing extramarital love objects or persons is a gift and a curse First, the maturity level of one's romantic relationship must be equivalently developed on mutual ground. Inviting anyone to a couple's personal space can be a significant privacy violation depending on the requested party Some people can only hold water in a paper cup for so long. The events may guide the urge to want more of that individual's attention or services. Therefore one should lead cautiously about who would be invited into your palace
The sensuality of the act is alluring and heightens the libido's senses It can be pleasurable and enticing that couples may even want to watch the invitee enjoying their spouse. Thus making the eroticized adventure more sensual Toys can be involved while this
more sensual. Toys can be involved while this secret rendezvous is in the making, especially if it's two women Some women nowadays may even want to introduce toys to their male counterparts.
Bringing someone or something into the bedroom has its pros and cons Still, for any of it to be pleasurable, conversations need to take place so that the integrity of the relationship does not become damaged due to ineffective communication and the true intent of bringing said extra into the bedroom
When this topic arises, it is often shunned and overlooked; many will say it does not interest them I can respect the welfare of others and their curiosity As a life coach and relationship enthusiast, I am always intrigued to learn more. Recently. I read an erotic story, My Girl's Friend, by C.E. Scott, where he painted a sexy storyline and gave the happily ever after Upon completion, I still questioned if it was realistic that a relationship would survive. Scott said he was not totally against it, which surprised me since often men are the first to say they want to bring a female and toys into the bedroom At the same time, females are often quick to object to bringing another female into the bedroom but open to using toys, food, feathers, etc., to make things more exciting.
In conclusion, you are doing what feels good physically and mentally too!
--
Sincerely,
Kisha Green
Over the last few days I’ve had a variety style of food! From a Sushi burrito to mellow mushroom sausage & mozzarella pizza with salad to lettuce wraps filled with delicious black & blue chicken and a pork taco seasoned with Korean barbecue sauce to an iso iso gourmet ramen noodles and passion fruit boba tea!
The best meal was the sushi burrito at Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito in Clemson South Carolina When I walked in I went to the restroom to wash my hands I immediately felt a clean atmosphere and saw wall decorations that were inspirational
The music selection that was playing was pretty good and I was ready to sit down and enjoy something different. The host helped me choose my selection of the sushi burrito which seems to be very popular by the locals.
It was too big and I could only eat half That was a good thing so I took the other half home It was wrapped in a nutritional soy crepe I definitely will be eating the “French kiss sushi burrito” again! It was filled with crab salad salmon avocado shrimp lettuce potato sticks with jasmine rice all tucked in an Orange soy crepe with Kimchi and spicy mayo sauce. It was so good! Both young servers were very helpful with choosing my meal. I wonder if we have this place at home? Hmmmm
Yes, I was impressed
#Tasteful Tips & Trips with Robin” is not just an ordinary food blog! It’s about fun, adventure, and a lot of tasty foods as I travel to places along this journey road called life. I am all about traveling and experimenting food flavors and the mixtures of them. So what better way to spread the word to others about places that I visit and help promote busi- nesses!
If you would like for me to visit your venue or restaurant please email me at: Booking@robinshockley.com the name of your restaurant and location.
You may just see me show up unexpectedly one day with my big smile and readily appetite!
Robin Shockley is the Founder of “Focus Forward with Robin” she is a Writer of magazines, TV Talk Show Host, Actress, Community Servant-Leader, Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker, and Author of books She believes there is freedom to move forward in life to think, believe and achieve a thing Contact Robin for future bookings to host your event or be a Speaker to help empower your audience www.robinshockley.com
Have you ever started reading a book, and in the middle, you feel a book hangover coming on? Hero For Sale is that book. Olivia Shaw-Reel brings you a story with all the feels and an array of rich characters with depth, substance, and complexity that have you on the edge of your seat wanting more.
Book Blurb: Singing sensation Marion Turner has not had the most positive behaviors in the public eye. From fast living to frivolous spending, self-destruction becomes closer than ever. With the help of his publicist and manager, he embarks on the road to redemption and soon meets and befriends a beautiful mother and her young daughter.
Kenya Morrison and her daughter, Kailee, are on the roller coaster of their lives with an inoperable brain tumor diagnosis. By faith, and with the help of their new celebrity friend, Kenya and Kailee somehow find the strength to move forward until a devastating secret turns their world upside down yet again. When the truth comes out, Kenya is left struggling with unforgiveness; Kailee is left fighting for her life, and Marion is forced to face his past mistakes and an uncertain future. Everyone needs a hero, but at what cost…I had to share the book blurb to set the stage for this amazing story!
A common theme of secrets, lies, and love, with a blend of family, hope, and second chances combined with the angst of trust and forgiveness creates for a fast-paced page-turner. It is an emotional roller coaster you will enjoy from the beginning to the end with the perfect balance of pulling at your heartstring moments, humor, and clutching your imaginary pearls. And yes, consider yourself warned; you will find yourself talking to the book and the characters. Hero For Sale is a total experience and journey through the life of Marion and Kenya as they navigate life, decisions, and unexpecting gutwrenching moments that must be dealt with. The past meeting present, moment of truth, and intense levels of trust test one’s strength and will to overcome and walk into second chances. The battle to forgive creates moments that put you in a space where it’s impossible to choose sides but on the sidelines rooting for Marion, Kenya, and Marion to win individually and together.
Hero For Sale is high on the list of mustread books and recommended reading for individuals and book clubs. Hero For Sale can be found on Amazon.com in ebook and print. Other books by Olivia Shaw-Reel can be found on her website at www.osrbooks.com.
Hey, Ms White, how are you? Thank you for the interview We came together at the right timing during the height of your touring season
KW: I know God is good and I'm so thankful and grateful I sit back thinking I get to do what I love to do If you know anything about my journey it's been awhile since I left the business so touring is good. about my journey its been awhile since I left the business so touring is good. This momentum that I have right now is so perfect in timing.
THS: Perfect time and it's God/s time and that's right. So tell us how did you start singing what got you in the business?
KW: Oh my god. Okay, well, first of all, my grandmother put me on a piano and I didn't really even know how to play the piano or five. It was that kind of church I love the Lord and I started in church and then I did pageants I was Miss Howe Jackson's talented team which was a big deal that was a national pageant and I'm having a brain freeze I did several pageants started there and I always knew that I wanted to do you know be in music I wanted to be a singer and I was gonna be Ross Donna Summers, Tina Turner Chaka Khan all mixed up in one
THS: Okay, so were you like me because I took the little towel and put it on my head and pretend like I had this long hair walking around dancing and prints in the house.
KW: Wow man actually had really long hair. Thank God. Yeah, so I definitely had the microphone was my mother brush was my microphone. And I had older sisters and brothers. I was the baby. My sister was the choreographer and dancer. So that's where I picked up my choreography and dancing from and it was just that type of house I love the attention I'm a Libra I love to see you know, the being beautiful things and being around, you know, just doing what I love to do
And so my family would let me in between the commercial breaks, we'd be watching the TV show and I get up and sing they're like okay, okay Okay, good So now we understand No but then it you know, but they really saw that Not only did I want it my focus was my superpower, you know, living and growing up in Los Angeles, the land of dreams, the sunshine every day, you know, it really just makes you feel like you can be anything you want to be my parents poured into me and believed in me and you know, it was just at an elementary they call the Karen White. I was a track star, Tomboy, you know, anything I kind of wanted I was very competitive So any anything that I really felt like I wanted to achieve, I'm out I had a superpower which was my focus to try to do it So
THS: kay. Wow, we sound just like yes, I am one of those determined, I don't care how many times I fall, I'm gonna get back up and get it done. So
KW:That's God. Right. You know what I mean? That's overcoming. That's what life's all about. You know what I mean? Because you're gonna fall right? Did you get the lesson? Right,
THS: right. Absolutely. So when did was your first time going into the studio?
God. Okay, first time. Let me tell you about my girlfriend. Kim and I learned so much from her. We were like 13 or 14, she sounded like Phyllis Hyman She could play and she wrote her songs Her parents were putting together a budget for her her demo and they were going to work in with Motown, Motown gave the money to do a demo on her. And I really was smart enough to just shut up and Listen. I knew I was in the presence of greatness, I would go into the studio and just really just soak up all the knowledge. And I think that was probably my first time in the studio watching her. I would go home, and I'm like, Mom, you know, I know for sure this is really what II want to do And having such an example Like I said, she being my best friend and having that kind of talent that she had It was just, it was just God And then I auditioned for a group called Legacy, and I was one of the singers to female singers, a gentleman and then we had a band. And so I would go into studio, we recorded demos and worked on music. So that was where I really started to develop my songwriting skills.
THS: Okay, okay So you go when you go into the studio? And do you, like, hit it off with a microphone first try or is it taking several tries to get it right
KW: it's like, you have to, you know, it isn't gonna work and it just depends on certain people, but I had to really develop who Karen White was at that time Also my voice was higher I had to really just find my style And that's what 16 and 17 and all those years singing Denise Williams and Chaka songs you're trying to find out who are you? So, I was able to write a song for Stephanie Mills. It's called automatic passion with the late great Robert Brookings. And that was what gave me the money to pursue my demo. So Stephanie Mills recorded the song. And then I put together a band and put together music for trying to get a demo tape. So that's when I was just graduated high school.
THS: Okay. All right. So then in 1988, the the the songs of all songs, Superwoman appears
KW: We can't just get to Superwoman my first number one gold record, which was and I Love the way you love me, That was a big record for me, my gold record and I, yeah, we did that with the great LA Reid and Babyface And it was an amazing time in Los Angeles I'm the first female artists from her debut album to have three number ones in a row So that's a big deal Superman was a part of that So yeah, and I'm taking my flowers because back then I didn't really you know how you when you're young and it's just you just think it's just supposed to happen And now I'm like, oh, shoot, that was a big deal, you know? Yeah, I'm like its just a the trip how we are winning in our youth, right? We just think everything is just supposed to be great. Oh, yes, here we go number one. And not knowing and that girlfriend, I was talking to you about, the one who sounded like Phyllis, she never was able to get a recording contract. I just really want to make sure that I let you know how thankful I am. And I just, you know, I really know how hard it is to do it.
THS: Yeah, especially in this age with the digital world Music is so different, and it's so hard to get it to a certain plateau So back then to be that great In such a short span of time Like that was really a big, big deal, especially as a solo artist. So kudos to you and we will never forget that.
Thank you. I'm grateful and thankful. And Superwoman, let's talk about that song because I was so young, you know, singing such a big song What did I know about being a superwoman? I hadn't lived enough life I hadn't gone through, Having to fall down and get back up and persevere and relationships and career and, and that's really what a super woman is It's just all of these things that make her so I just really use my mother as my substitution when I sang that song. And I remember being in studio with LA Reid, I'm like, Okay, I had to like really put myself into my mother's shoes, Being a single mom, after a while my dad broke up and just how incredible she was, she poured into me, she made me feel like I can be or do anything And I just am so thankful I had such a mother So when I when I sang that song, it came from that perspective, and I had no idea that it would wind up being an evergreen, which we call just an anthem all over the world for women And still today, I'm just thankful again The beautiful part about that time I'm gonna say this is an era because there's different eras in music. That was the video era it was the pop era Whitney Houston Michael Prince Janet. Jodi you know very well records were very you know Chaka very you know, pointed sisters, Patty and my favorite Tina Turner So that was such a great era If you were an entertainer and a video artist I'm thankful because that was my strength And so, you know, when you had you know, Whitney selling 10 million Janet selling five, you know, so there was definitely a bar, that i was striving to get to We were on our way I've toured with Bobby Brown for two years and that was a electrifying show. Bobby was at the height of his career and was one of the biggest tours of the year, I had learned so much and grown and then internationally, I had a big fan base as well in London and then the Asian and then not Asian, but Japan and all those other places like that overseas
So yeah, so once I toured, I had a manager who I want to tell you about He used to be the president of Sony Records So he wound up becoming an attorney. He wind ups, stepping down and he sign Luther and Natalie So he was just the man at the time And so I was very thankful to have him and I got married After my first album and my hiatus, I think I took like, two years off I went to Minnesota to meet with Prince and we were going to work on my second album, with Jimmy and Terry. We, hitting it off, and then I was gonna move to Minnesota Jimmy and Terry inherited me and, I was just learning so much from them I became more of a business woman had a child, actually, who was actually going to be getting married May 28 So shout out to Ashley Nicole Yeah, she's 30 years old. So yeah, so that's what I was doing on my second album, and we leave then we released romantic and ritual of love
I think I took a lot of it for granted And, and now, I don't take nothing for granted And when I tell people, when I'm on stage, it doesn't matter whether I'm in front of thousands or hundreds of 50 people. I mean, I give my all and it's really such a love. And people can feel that they feel my energy, People always ask where I get my energy from. I'm just grateful and thankful to do this, I get to do this every day. I also had to learn about business and financial literacy with real estate and all these things. I'm glad I was able to be a businesswoman, too, because I only had a 12th grade education. I also have a foundation, the Karen White Foundation, and I started in 2019. And I'm looking forward to having the Superwoman pageant. So that's going to be coming soon where we talk, you know, I want these kids, these young girls as teenagers from 13 to 17 And I just want to be able to love on them and, and just all the things that helped me to become the woman that I am I feel like that's needed right now Especially with our youth
THS: That is awesome. Well, congratulations on starting that foundation. And when you get a foundation for the women 50 And up, give me a call. Okay. lol
KW: (laughs) I give away grants. So let me tell you guys go to KarenWhitefoundation.com. And if you are an entrepreneur, you don't even have to be over 50 But just entrepreneur, woman, entrepreneur, period, I'm giveaway grants annually. I just want to get started there. So I told my publicist, I'm like, we gotta grow this thing, with doing pageants and just helping with financial literacy By having these events, with all of these great women, there teaching all of us not just the youth but a lot of women, You should always keep learning and growing a Right?
THS: Amen to that
THS: I am so honored to know you. So I heard you were in Atlanta recently, and you had this concert. And I saw a couple of the clips going around the internet. And I'm here in Atlanta. So I'm trying to figure out first of all, how did I miss that show? It was the one of the clips. You were like kicking and jumping around stage and and for me to hear what your real age is like I'm like, How in the world did she hold down that show for over an hour with all that jumping and moving right?
KW: That's because because I took 18 years, right? This girl got a lot out No, it's It's my calling now and it's the energy I I don't even know It's so crazy I tried to take good care off myself And trust me you know, you definitely got to be eating right and getting your sleep I tell everybody, I take B 12 Shot and I've always been that way if you go watch any of my videos or performances. We got Tina Turner doing it and I know shes passed 70 or 75 still kicking it.
*(This interview was done prior to TT's death.)*
THS: Thanks so much Karyn. I have enjoyed you! May God continue to bless you in all that you do!
On the eve of Terah Shelton Harris debut novel being released, I had the pleasure to sit down and chat with her about ‘One Summer in Savannah ’ So pull up a chair and enjoy this interview
Cleavester: Hi Terah, How are you?
Terah Shelton Harris: I’m wonderful! I just returned home from an exciting vacation in Paris, one of my favorite places in the world!
Cleavester: Congrats, on your new debut novel 'One Summer in Savannah.' Tell the readers about it?
Terah: Sara, a young poet who returns home after eight years away to run her father’s bookstore and finds she must protect her gifted daughter and herself from the powerful family of the man who raped her, something made even more difficult when she falls in love with the last person she expects: His twin brother, Jacob.
Cleavester: Where did the inspiration for 'One Summer in Savannah' come from?
Terah: Inspiration for One Summer in Savannah stems from the 2015 Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shooting in Charleston, South Carolina After the parishioners fed him and prayed for him, a man shot and killed nine of them Days after that terrible tragedy, before they had even buried their loved ones, some of the survivors and relatives of those killed walked into a South Carolina courtroom and forgave the murderer At that moment, I realized I knew nothing about forgiveness I assumed that there were crimes and acts that were unforgivable, but I learned the opposite. The loved ones who forgave him taught me to look inward, and I learned that forgiveness is not one-size fits all. I decided to explore that by writing a book that challenged readers on the definition of forgiveness and what it truly means to forgive
Cleavester: How long did it take for you to write it?
Terah: I started writing ONE SUMMER IN SAVANNAH in 2020 A little here, a little there My work as a librarian prohibited me from writing anything more han a few hundred words per day. But in March, my library closed for two and half months because of the pandemic While working from home, I was also able to write a lot more I finished in November, edited it in December, and started seeking representation in January 2021.
Cleavester: What kind of person is the lead character Sara Lancaster?
Terah: I love this question because I love Sara so much. Sara is a woman desperate to let go of her pain and do what was best for her daughter. To do that, like most mothers, she places Alana’s needs over her own and that includes facing (literally) the ghosts of her past But Sara is also eager to move on Once back in Savannah, she realizes just how much holding on to the past has held her back.
KB: What is your writing process?
Terah: We send chapters back and forth So, if Gabrielle writes chapter 1, I (Nikki) will write chapter 2 and so forth and so on. We research and bounce ideas off one another.
Cleavester: What kind of person is the lead character Sara Lancaster?
Terah: I love this question because I love Sara so much. Sara is a woman desperate to let go of her pain and do what was best for her daughter. To do that, like most mothers, she places Alana’s needs over her own and that includes facing (literally) the ghosts of her past But Sara is also eager to move on Once back in Savannah, she realizes just how much holding on to the past has held her back.
Cleavester: When you wrote the last word, what did you do afterwards?
Terah: I sighed and a smile grew on my face. Why? Because I wrote it in about two hours and knew that it was exactly what I wanted. In fact, the final version in the book is almost the exact version (minus a few edits) I originally wrote. I have NEVER written something as perfect as the ending (without tons of revisions and edits) to ONE SUMMER IN SAVANNAH It’s my favorite chapter in the book
Cleavester: What has writing this book taught you about yourself and others?
Terah: The topic of forgiveness following assault is not one often explored in fiction. It was difficult for me to write, and I understand it could be triggering to read But writing isn’t supposed to be comfortable or easy, and neither is reading Rather than running from what makes us uncomfortable, we can take risks, challenge ourselves, and step outside of our lived experiences and our comfort zones so that we may grow as a person. Thousands of brave people are faced with rape-related pregnancies every year, a number that stands to increase with the overturning of Roe v. Wade. But by exploring such a topic, it is my hope, at the very least, to raise awareness of the plights of Saras around the world and the role forgiveness could play in such situations
Cleavester: Please give the readers a brief bio on you and as a writer and author?
Terah: Sure! I am a librarian and a freelance writer based in Alabama. My work has appeared in Catapult, Women’s Health, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Backpacker, and Minority Nurse As a librarian, chief among my responsibilities is the coordination of all aspects of collection development. For me, there’s no greater satisfaction than providing my patrons with stories that will move them, inspire them, and challenge them.
Cleavester: What was life like growing up?
Terah: I love my family and wouldn’t trade my childhood for anything in the world In fact, the Pizza Fridays featured in ONE SUMMER IN SAVANNAH is based on Pizza Fridays I had in my house as a child.
Cleavester: What kind of dreams did you have for yourself growing up? Have you accomplished those dreams?
Terah: I recently wrote that dreams are weird when accomplished Growing up, I dreamed of living in New York City, traveling the world, and becoming a writer. Well…I have accomplished all of those. For decades, I dreamed of achieving those goals and when I did, it felt surreal, like it was happening to someone else. That’s when I realized that you never stop dreaming, never stop adding goals, achievements, and accomplishments to your list
Cleavester: What is your writing process?
Terah: I write all of my books longhand. I’ve tried to write on a computer, but found that the words flow easier if I just write them out I do not write linear I write whatever my characters whisper into my head that day That could be a sentence of dialogue, character description, or a few lines of exposition. I’m also a plantser. I know the end of my books before I start them. I don’t see scenes when I write, rather, I hear my characters in my head so after the end has been established, I wait for my characters to guide me towards the end
Cleavester: What advice would you give to writers wanting to publish a book?
Terah: Start! I know that may seem simple, but I meet so many people who want to write a book but have not started. They have done all of the research, asked all of the questions, but have yet to write a word Or, have only written a few hundred words You can’t write a book without words, sentences, pages, and chapters. You have to start. Additionally, study the craft by reading books in your desired genre, but also in other genres.
Cleavester: If 'One Summer in Savannah' is made into a film, who would you like to play Sara Lancaster and others? Why?
Terah: This is a hard question! I don’t see people or scenes when I write. My characters tell me what they look like so I can only describe them in words. Except, for Jacob. Before I started writing, Jacob told me he looked like Jesse Williams and I wrote all of Jacob’s chapters with Jesse in my head Now, I can’t imagine anyone else playing Jacob As for Sara (based on how I described her), I think Nicole Beharie would make a perfect Sara. I’m such a fan of Sterling K. Brown and know he would absolutely kill the role of Hosea. I would cry a river of tears if Viola Davis played Birdie. It’s probably too small of a role for her, but it’s such a powerful and emotional one
Cleavester: If 'One Summer in Savannah' is made into a film, who would you like to play Sara Lancaster and others? Why?
Terah: This is a hard question! I don’t see people or scenes when I write. My characters tell me what they look like so I can only describe them in words. Except, for Jacob. Before I started writing, Jacob told me he looked like Jesse Williams and I wrote all of Jacob’s chapters with Jesse in my head. Now, I can’t imagine anyone else playing Jacob. As for Sara (based on how I described her), I think Nicole Beharie would make a perfect Sara. I’m such a fan of Sterling K. Brown and know he would absolutely kill the role of Hosea. I would cry a river of tears if Viola Davis played Birdie It’s probably too small of a role for her, but it’s such a powerful and emotional one
Cleavester: What makes you happy when you sit down to write every day?
Terah: My characters! They are fictional, but they are very real to me I live with them I eat meals with them I talk to them When it’s time to write, I enjoy listening to what they have to tell me and being invited into their world.
Cleavester: What book was a transformational read for you as a reader or as a writer?
Terah: Honestly, I don’t know if there’s one book that was as transformational for me as all books and having access to information. I was practically raised in a library. I’m a librarian! Books have always been a huge part of my life.
Cleavester: What’s next? Have you started working on your next book? What can readers look forward to?
Terah: Yes! In fact, I submitted my second book to my editor about a month ago. I’m not sure how much I can share yet but I will mention that it’s a family drama and I’m calling it the book of my heart! It took so much out of me but I love it so much and hope readers will as well
Cleavester: When this life is said and done. What do you want your legacy to be?
Terah: That I left an impact on the world Whether it’s through a book that I wrote or a service/program I started at my library, I would like to know, for the world to know, that I was here and I moved the world forward in some way.
Issue #3 Issue #3
“I don’t even listen to hip-hop anymore, my collection ends about 10 years ago” That’s what a female classmate said about hip-hop music Well, actually this would be around 20 years ago now, I wonder what she would say about the state of female representation in hip-hop today. This article is going to focus on the female MC and discuss some very controversial opinions and viewpoints, but this piece is not to be taken as disrespectful or critical of today’s female MC. I am simply trying to point out the change in the way female rappers are discovered, packaged, shipped, and displayed today as opposed to how we viewed them in the golden days of hip-hop. Don’t let the subtitle fool you, I am not saying the women in hip-hop today are not “Queens” or lesser than their predecessors. I am strictly saying that the image of the female rapper has gone from regal, to ummm; something else Like I said, don’t get it twisted, I love what the women in hip-hop are doing today There is power in their expression of sexuality, and freedom
to do and say what they feel as beautiful badasses. With that said, I do come from an era of Hip-hop music where their power was displayed as intelligence, self-respect, and security and was not strictly about the power of their “P”
I believe that the record industry has done a nefarious job of switching the queen image to the stripper image. Much the same as they have taken the strong, intelligent, culturally aware image away from men in hip-hop and gave us the drug-using, drugdealing, hyper-sexual, nonmessage-delivering rapper. The image of the female MC has been manipulated and twisted by the music industry from a powerful equal in the rap game to the hyper-sexualized negative representation of a woman
In hip-hop’s infancy, women were absolutely a presence on the mic and treated as an important part of the crew that was rocking the party. When we think of early female MCs we think of Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Salt-N-Pepa Ms. Melody,Roxanne Shante,etc. the golden era of the female rapper. But they were not the first to bless the mic with their skills, in the early days we had dope MC’s such as MC Sha-Rock, known as the “Mother of the Mic,”
s“According to MC Sha-Rock, in the early days of hip-hop, there was less of a focus on a woman’s looks and more a focus on her skills as an emcee.”
(MC SHA-ROCK) rappers such as MC LYTE and Roxanne Shante made hit records in male-driven testosterone dripping hip-hop, but their hits such as MC LYTE’s “Paper Thin” and Roxanne Shante’s “Roxanne’s Revenge” would have topics that focused on cheating, chauvinistic men. To stand out initially female rappers had to embrace stereotypical topics for women such as infidelity and womanizing. In 1986, the year before these two amazing MCs emerged,
she is highly regarded as the first female emcee of hip-hop in the 1970s when her skills and bars earned her a spot as a member of The Funky 4+1.
Your(courtesy-of-Michael-Putland)
Salt-N-Pepa would set the bar for female MCs with their debut album, “Hot, Cool & Vicious” and album that would combine songs boosting mic skills,“My Mic Sounds Nice”and tracks that would inspire future female MC’s to copy the format of success such as “Tramp”, which focused on the “womanizing” subject matter that Roxanne Shante and MC LYTE would later use.
Salt-N-Pepa’s debut album would produce a track that in my opinion changed the direction of what record labels would consider a successful female MC record. The song “Push It” off Salt-N-Pepa’s first album, would explode on the scene with a driving beat and loud party synthesizer keyboards that created a style and sound that inspired a new level of female MC; the sex symbol. The song, “Push It” had extremely sexualized lyrics that shocked the Hip-hop and music world with its big and bold unapologetic lyrics Of course, there were female artists that embraced their sexuality in songs and lyrics, Pat Benatar, Blondie, Joan Jett in the rock world to name a few, and Diana Ross, Donna Summers, and Evelyn Champagne King in the disco R&B world. The reason that ‘Push it’ pushed it over the top is because for one it was Hip-hop, strong urban ghetto music and two, it was powerful black women that were urban and ghetto and were in your face, bold and beautiful. Hip-hop was fast becoming a powerful force in the music industry in the late 1980s. This loud ghetto music was taking over the streets and the streets are where all cultural trends begin and end. Many small independent record labels were scrambling and trying to find the next big thing in hip-hop and began to sign lots of incredibly talented young MCs both male and female Two of them became the voices of the young black female empowerment movement, Monie Luv and the hip-hop icon Queen Latifah. Queen Latifah when she was only 19 released her debut album All Hail the Queen in 1989 featuring the hit single "Ladies First".
“Ladies First” featuring another young amazing rapper named Monie Love was the first big hit of Latifah’s career and would not be her last. “Ladies First” powerfully created a lane for female MCs to stand up against misogyny and still get the respect of their male peers Latifah blazed this path with lines such as,
“Cause they see a woman standing up on her own two/ Sloppy slouching is something I won't do / Some think that we can't flow (can't flow) / Stereotypes, they got to go (got to go) I'm a mess around and flip the scene into reverse / (With what?) With a little touch of "Ladies First"
(Queen Latifah “Ladies First”) Queen Latifah's first album was an underground hip-hop success, but it was her third album, Black Reign (1993), which became the first album by a solo female rapper to sell half a million records (Gold Status) and gave us the single "U.N.I.T.Y.", which was influential in raising awareness of violence against women and the objectification of Black female sexuality. The song would go on to become an anthem for women’s rights of all races, colors, creeds, and religions and is still a powerful song in the fight
Your against misogyny and the disrespect and abuse of women. What is ironic, and extremely sad, is the music industry did not hear this cry for equality and embraced a Harvey Weinstein approach to the female hip-hop artist of today, either take it off or no record deal. The 1990s and 2000s were an interesting time for hip-hop.
The east coast and west coast were in a full-on war, hip-hop music was at its most commercially successful to date, and the rise of the hyper-sexual female MC was born Recording artists such as LiL Kim, Foxy Brown, and Eve lead the charge in the change of the guard of Queen MCs The hip-hop landscape was changing and the older female MCs had to quickly adapt in order to survive. Queen Latifah and MC Lyte although still outspoken advocates for the woman’s rights quickly switched their subject matter in songs to more sexually centered lyrics. Da Brat, another Female MC who was extremely popular in the ’90s, also started off with a tomboy, baggy clothes, smooth non-sexualized flow eventually drop off the music scene and reemerged in a bikini.
rapping about the sexual topic of what a man would like. Queen Latifah and MC Lyte would struggle to continue their reign at the top Their records would enjoy moderate success but ultimately the industry was full steam ahead on the new sexy, fleshy, exotic female MC that was not only showing the goods but spitting rhymes about it as well Foxy Brown was another highly charged female MC that was not shy about her sexuality and promiscuity.
Both would change the rap game forever in terms of how the music industry packaged female MCs, it seemed that the only thing they cared about was, whether you spit bars and be half naked at the same time. Do not get it twisted, both Foxy Brown and LiL Kim were excellent rappers with major talent, which makes it even more disappointing that they were obliged to have the world stickily focus on their bodies and not their bars.
Today, in regard to the female MC, it seems the only thing that is important to the music industry is the image of the stripper on stage. These new female MCs today should be paying homage to Lil Kim and Foxy Brown as they exposed the controversial lane that is now creating vasts amount of fame and wealth for these new female rap artists. Artists such as Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion.
Hip-hop has always been a strong voice for the urban community, all races and colors, and over the last 30 years, it has been completely stripped of its dynamic, positive, uplifting image and voice. Just recently, I had a few conversations with some female MCs that are currently in the game and they had some interesting points regarding their thoughts on the subject of hyper-sexualization of the female MC. When talking with female rapper Thugshells,
She is definitely a “Bubbly Gangsta”. In my music camp, we work with an amazing new artist by the name of Nanibae
have enjoyed success using a blueprint that was created by earlier female MCs like Lil Kim and Foxy Brown but what is important to point out is this is what young aspiring girls think is how they get put on in the rap game. I am not at all dissing or downplaying Cardi B or Megan The Stallion, I love these rappers. I am, however, pointing my finger at the music industry and the fact that they do not care about the integrity of a culture or the respect of an art form.
(undergroundsound)
a dope MC from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada she explained that her brand was wholesome and she labels her sound “bubbly gangster” When doing a song called, “Money” she put out a video for the song that showed a lot of skin and had a more Rated R tone to it than her previous videos When releasing the video, she got some backlash from fans because they were more into the wholesome vibe than the raunchy images that she had in her video. Thugshells admits that she did stray from her normal wholesome image but is still very proud of video She says that, “she’s been lucky in her career to not have to lean on her sexuality” (Thugshells 2023) to promote her brand. When viewing Thugshells other videos on her youtube channel I definitely respect her hustle and the fact that she really does successfully push a brand that is wholesome.
(Nanibae) who just dropped a bomb recently with her smash hit single, “Ain’t One” produced by my partner in music and rhyme Slapp Turner. I spoke to Nanibae and asked her about her thoughts on the state of female hip-hop at this present moment. She shared that she believes that “there is a lot of pressure in hip-hop, especially with social media, to give the people what they want. But, the pressure that the camera adds 10 pounds and I’m already thick, and what if my makeup is not on point I have a gap in my tooth, so I don’t have the perfect smile, the game brings out insecurities”, she gave a dope quote that, “female artist apply their own pressure to the pressure that’s applied to us” (Nanibae 2023). It is my belief that the industry has created a hyper-sexualized image that these artists feel
(Gramatune)
who just dropped a bomb recently with her smash hit single, “Ain’t One” produced by my partner in music and rhyme Slapp Turner I spoke to Nanibae and asked her about her thoughts on the state of female hip-hop at this present moment. She shared that she believes that “there is a lot of pressure in hip-hop, especially with social media, to give the people what they want. But, the pressure that the camera adds 10 pounds and I’m already thick, and what if my makeup is not on point. I have a gap in my tooth, so I don’t have the perfect smile, the game brings out insecurities”, she gave a dope quote that, “female artist apply their own pressure to the pressure that’s applied to us” (Nanibae 2023). It is my belief that the industry has created a hypersexualized image that these artists feelthey have to conform to, to get the label recognition and push that they need to succeed I also had the pleasure of interviewing one of the baddest female MCs I’ve ever had the pleasure of working, Envee The Queen.
you’re not putting out what the want or expect”
Envee is a 17-year vet in the New Mexico music scene is has been grinding hard to carve out her spot in the game. When asked about the state of hip-hop she mentioned, “The turn in hip-hop has been crazy and extreme, I would like to see the lyrics come back it seems that its (sex) is all radio wants to hear and see, it’s tough when you aren’t getting recognized because
Your I agree with Envee that lyrics should still be a focal point of not only female MCs but male MCs as well. Real Lyricism and poetry is disappearing from hip-hop music and it’s becoming increasingly hard to stay excited about any new rap artist. This article was extremely hard to write because I was worried about dissing the new female MCs and not giving them flowers for their amazing accomplishments. This article was not about dissing anyone, it was more about shining a light on the music industry and exposing the obvious shallowness of the executives that are finding, signing, and releasing women in hip-hop under the agreement that they strip and do a lap dance for the audience Hip-hop culture in its beginning stood out as a voice for the voiceless and a vehicle for young urban kids to express themselves in a time when they had no microphone. As it progressed it became a beacon of hope and prosperity with the real possibility of upward mobility through music. The early MCs used hiphop to tell stories about their surroundings and brag about their swag as young adults love to do. But the most important aspect of hip-hop music to me was the messages that the artist was giving and what they were saying. I grew up on hip-hop and it taught me valuable life lessons that I wasn’t getting from my parents, it also taught me some negative things as well What seemed to happened to female hip-hop is the music industry decided that the positivity was not as profitable as the negative and with that, all of our empowering female voices in hip-hop are gone, or at least not being promoted commercially On the bright side, there are many female MCs that spit bars and have empowering messages, such as Rhapsody,
who has amazing flow, intricate deep empowering lyrics, and does not feel the need to take her clothes off to have a career in the music industry. I respect everyone’s freedom of sexuality and their freedom to express themselves in any way that is safe. I just have an issue when it seems that is all we get in today’s hip-hop music. My hope is that we as consumers start to take back a little of the choice we have as to what the music industry packages for us to consume. Until then we will just have WAP,and not, U.N.I.T.Y.
(Envee The Queen of Heart Album cover)
Interview by The Heat Seekers
Photos Courtesy of Donnell Spencer Jr.
As a member of Gary Steven’s “The Delfonics” group (current) and an esteemed member of “The Puppets” who toured with the iconic Wolfman Jack Maurice was recently inducted as a pioneer into the Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum for his contributions.
In celebration of #BlackMusicMonth, I want to share some of Maurice’s extraordinary history in entertainment, as he has performed with many well know artist- such as Ray Charles, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Stylistics, Ohio Players, Kool & The Gang, The Staple Singers, Little Richard, Gladys Knight & The Pips, The Miracles, The Fifth Dimension, Little Anthony & The Imperials, Kenny Rogers, Jose Feliciano, William Smokey Robinson, Lou Rawls and many more…
The Heat Seekers Magazine: Tell us how you started your journey.
MC: In Chicago with a dance group named (The Puppets). Later was discovered by and added to the Wolfman Jack “Shock & Rock Review Tour” in 1976. Currently (The Puppets) are being commemorated into “The Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum” August 13th 2023.
THS: During the time of being discovered, did you know this would be a career? Why or why not?
MC: I thought it was a momentary opportunity until the group was invited to move to Los Angeles for future opportunities in the entertainment business In 1979 the group was signed to MCA record label as recording artists (Dream Express) and appeared as special guest on Dick Clark’s “American Band Stand” and “The Midnight Special” hosted by Wolfman Jack himself
THS: Give us details on the day you heard yourself on the radio. What were you doing at that moment?
MC: I’m embarrassed to say I don’t remember the radio station but…I do remember the moment however. We were previously named “The Puppets” now “Dream Express” MCA’s newest recording artist; we were at our California home in Orange County preparing for rehearsal one afternoon I had just stepped into the left leg of my pants. The radio was on and then it happened We heard the DJ mention “Dream Express” on the radio and we all stopped whatever we were doing and froze in disbelief, surprised and amazed We had no idea our song would be played on the radio that day And of course we turned the volume up as loud as it would go to listened and cheered when the song “Midnight Dream” from the album…yes I said album…
finished playing, with excitement just as loud as the volume on the stereo. It was definitely a miracle moment.
THS: Delfonics is known for their smooth love songs. Tell of some experiences on the road while singing these beautiful love songs to the crowd.
MC: I sing with “Gary Steven’s “Delfonics who sang with (an original member) Randy Cane and Major Harris. I was invited to join the singing group 2 years ago, June of 2021. It was an amazing experience to perform with a legendary singing group like the Delfonics. I was very familiar with their music and I already had dance skills, so the chorography came easy but… having a history of being a front man the harmonies were a bit challenging. However I worked hard at learning the harmonies and was invited to lead one of the Delfonics most popular songs (Hey Love). The crowd loved my performance and I got the thumbs up from the group members as well. It was nerve racking but exciting. The crowd cheered constantly as we performed all the popular songs and eagerly waited for autographs and to take pictures with us after the performance.
The highlight for me was the performance in Connecticut at The Wall Street Theater (July of 2022) where “The Intruders shared the stage with The Delfonics.
THS: Tell us about your musical background?
MC: As a kid I always loved music, I played drums until 1976 when I joined the dance group (The Puppets) Signing to MCA record label in 1979 is what launched the start of me singing (officially) In 1986 as a solo artist signed to “Brookhill” records where at this point I began to write original songs About 1989 I joined “Superstar Fantasy” where I impersonated Michael Jackson and later James Brown 2006 I wrote, recorded, funded and produced my first original CD project (The Greatest Story) containing 9 worship songs. Currently 2023 I’m promoting my second and newest original solo CD project (Be In My Life) also written, recorded, funded and self produced, consisting of 6 smooth R&B romantic songs. @ (www.myintimatevoice.com)
THS: Now that the industry has changed and gone to digital music. What impact does that have on the group?
MC: My first CD (The Greatest Story) is currently digital across all music platforms. I decided to take a different route with my newest CD I have a website where my newest original music (Be In My Life) can be found at; www myintimatevoice com As for the (Gary Stevens Delfonics), we will continue to do live performances singing the old hit songs as made famous by the original Delfonics
THS: Tell us about some of the places you’ve traveled during your career and what was your favorite place?
MC: I have 2 favorite places- Canada (Toronto and Vancouver) we the “Puppets” were filming The Wolfman Jack TV Special and Variety Series there It was one the most culturally diverse places I had seen while traveling And the people there were warm and friendly. We inter acted with some of the locals we met there and had a marvelous time.
Japan was awesome! We had so much fun there in downtown Tokyo at the “Latin Quarters” exclusive Hotel where we performed. After the performances we’d go out on the town to clubs with some of the locals we met there as well. And though we did not speak Japanese, somehow we managed to communicate with each other just fine, from what little they taught us Don Ho had appeared before our engagement at the “Latin Quarters “and The Stylistics afterwards It was truly a blessing for us to have the opportunity to experience being in other countries sharing our talents and gifts
THS: Name some of the groups you have worked with?
MC: Gary Steven’s Delfonics (current)| Elmer Armstrong Platters (Lead singer)| Sheila E. (Background vocals)| Oscar Brown Jr | (And shared the staged with) Little Anthony (of The Imperials)| The Miracles| Gladys Knight & The Pips| David Summerville | Little Richard| The Intruders |
THS: Can you name 3 influential people that had an effect on your career?
MC: “Wolfman Jack” and our manager, “Don Kelley”: Who discovered The Puppets and are responsible for these incredible experiences we had and taught us much about the business and people “Lou Rowls”: he came to our dressing room on the set of “American Bandstand” taping to welcome us, encourage us and chat with us regarding managers and agents in the business And “
Little Richard’’ (what can I say)? Legendary, lots of fun to hang out with and full of knowledge that he dropped on us regarding being disciplined and how to carry ourselves to stay out of trouble, for we were still young men at that time and fresh to the entertainment business
THS: What are the plans for the future?
MC: With all the experience in entertainment I’ve acquired through the years, I believe it’s time for me to brand my name and build a reputation and gain recognition as a successful solo artist and songwriter/performer.
THS: If you could do it all over again, would you change anything?
MC: Well I do wish I could have been more prepared for the music business but then how could I have done that having an interest in being a lawyer
THS: Please let your audience know how to contact the group for future shows.
MC: Contact me at: mcsings777gmail.com & Instagram@mauricejustus
THS: Would you like to say anything special to your fans?
MC: Yes! Without the fans we artist wouldn’t exist I want t0 with deep appreciation say thanks to all the fans that supported me on this journey thus far and to those fans in the future as well I love you!
• Music Production / Beat Maker
• Audio Engineering
• Vocal Recording • Mixing and Mastering
• Sound Design for Video Games
• Music Production and Film
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@beathogsmusic | Loveland, Colorado
