The Worthwhile Journal Volume 2

VOL. I | ISSUE II JUNE - JULY 2013

CEASAR VALENTINO

LA HOTTEST PROMOTERS MARCO & VALENTINO

SHARON OTOO

“the things that i am thinking when smiling politely”

ANDRE GAGNE VINTAGE CAR RACING

KARINA TAYLOR FIGHER VS THE FAN

CHRIS WARRIOR EXPLAINS HIS “ADDICTION”

COURTNEY SMITH

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH EUROPEAS HOTTEST FASHION COLUMNIST

EDITORIAL “Everyday is a Saturday”- by Andre’ Gagne, was the best qoute I heard throughout our second edition selection of articles.

Our cover story Marco and Valentino!

My time in LA was a educational one.

Sure I give the place a hard time and yes the place is exactly if not more than one may have heard about. The rumors are true. At least from my experience. There is the good, the bad, the ugly and still there are some that knows there place in life and how to put on a show - to make money.

2

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

The ones that keep their reality in check are a rarity but they are there.

Read the story.. These guys are real.!!

Who else would have thought of a Fan vs Fighter other than Karina Taylor.

When I think back to the precarious sport of MMA, I think of a blood and sinister act. But in this edition, Karina Taylor and a Fan proves me wrong. Maybe I am getting a little old or haven’t noticed just how serious people are taking the blood sport. Her contributing story leading to MMA fighting and becoming a professional fighter in such a time is worth a read and of course a relevant one.

For some strange reason we are glued to European fashion. Ok, they are the

leaders in high end fashion as well as extreme clothing wear. In Ireland and the U.K., we were fortunate enough to have a virtual q&a with Dublin’s fashion television presenter and contributor Courtney Smith. When Raymond (our overworked illustrator) was putting this edition together, this was a story that not only caught our eye but kept us on point as to what its like within the industry. As well as ideas and concepts that will be appreciated globally.

When I was out in LA, I was asking remote questions as to why these professional athletes in America was making remarkable comebacks from injuries that the normal person would retire from. Dr. Chris Hollinsworth broke it down to me and said, “Its going to take more than one interview session, but I will start from here”. In this edition he did just that, in the simplest form possible he contributed his explanation of “Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy”.

Vintage Car racing?! Another sport that is somewhat overlooked by the mainstream due to the high maintenance financial risk, but is taken extremely serious by the car owners.

When I exercised my due diligence in the cars the first comments were “ dude those are multi-millionaires that want to have fun”. Sure there was some substance to the latter statement, but when I convinced Andre’ Gagne’ for an in-depth look, once again I was surprised at the level of commitment and genuine love for not only the cars themselves but also the race. Just meeting the humble yet well accomplished race car owner and driver was nothing short of amazing.

-“Beau- everyday is Saturday”

Sharon Otoo.- Anyone that knows the background of BCBF Media, will identify our reasonings behind our M.O. (“Relevant Stories from Reliable Sources”). The Q&A with Ms. Otoo will be continued because the subject matters and remarkable facts behind one of Germanys “respected” authors will lead to further questions. Hopefully there will be some exploitation on this article.

As I was told during my initial meeting with Ms. Otoo in 2008 (Berlin), “The biggest form of memory is ink”.

Enjoy, BEAU FITTS

I N D E X

19

[SPORTS] KARINA TAYLOR: FIGHTER VS THE FAN (MMA)

6

[LIFESTYLE] LA HOTTEST PROMOTERS MARCO AND VALENTINO

13

[FEATURED] SHARON OTOO: OUR FEATURED STORY ON GHANA/ENGLISH ACTIVIST AND HER FIVE STAR RATED BOOK “the things I am thinking while smiling politely”

4

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

40

[ H E A LT H ] DR . C H R I S HOLLINSWORTH

28

[SPORTS] ANDRE GAGNE: VINTAGE CAR RACING WITH ANDRE GAGNE

42

“THE THEORY OF PLATELET RICH PLASMA THERAPHY”

48

[ M U S I C ] C H R I S WA R R I O R : CHRIS WARRIOR EXPLAINS HIS “ADDICTION”

[FASHION] COURTNEY SMITH: Q&A WITH EUROPE’S UPRISING FASHION WRITER AND COLUMNIST COURTNEY SMITH THE WORTHWHILE JOURNAL IS A COMPANY OWNED BY: BCBF MEDIA CORPORATION | 9107 WHILSHIRE BLVD, #450 | BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 ARTICLES BY:

JEROME BEAU FITTS | DR. CHRIS HOLLINSWORTH | KARINA TAYLOR | CEASAR VALENTINO PHOTOS BY: JEROME BEAU FIITS | NEEDOPIX PHOTOGRAPHY ILLUSTRATED BY: RAYMOND TRUONG

MARCO AND VALENTINO

6

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

LIFESTYLE

In February 2011 in a prestigious Hollywood nightclub I noticed a group of people that was drawen to one particular table. Ok, the name of the infamous night club “The Playhouse”. At the time the club meant very little to me and to be frank, it still resonates as another Hollywood night club that I thought was even funnier. The majority of the clubs in LA LA land that has some value are bottled serviced clubs that has ques that reach around the corner with only half of the waiting wanders able to get inside. Yep funny. I cant envision this anywhere else but it happens.

You either have to reserve a table with bottle service that juices half of the patrons monthly salary or KNOW one of the club promoters. Nine times out of ten, most would swear that the promoters are their “boys”.

So, whats the catch? How is this one particular table with some of the most gorgeous women there the center of attention? It took me a few years to figure this one out but one thing for sure I had to meet the gentlemen

that was completely holding it down. Marco and Ceasar Valentino!

I took a stronger look at these guys and thought, if they could so could everyone else. Was I wrong? Well not quite. We all are aware of the Hollywood scene even if you haven’t landed in LAX for a dream venture.

Yes its true but with the uncertainty that culminates within the LA atmosphere, I knew I couldn’t take anything serious. So I thought, why not I will just go straight up to the guys and introduce myself and hope the security guy wouldn’t be a twat.

Unfortunately the security guy was a twat but as I knew I wasn’t doing anything wrong but following the skirts throughout the club as most male figures were, what would be the harm in introducing myself. Besides it was the perfect place to infiltrate the LA scene. Partying!

When I approached Valentino he as a complete gentlemen and we spoke for maybe 20

8

| The Worthwhile JournalŠ |

strangely enough I didnt have to explain where I was from. He just said, “hey man have a drink and take a seat to meet some lovely ladies from Scandinavia.”

Ok now what? Where are they from I asked. Valentino replied- “they are from

somewhere in Scandinavia and I am one of the promoters for tonites events.”

I thought oh ok. Now I get it.. your the man!

Without saying it in some many words and without opening his mouth, I got the beat around the bush answer - “yep, I know where the parties are!”

Fast forward spring 2013. After a few hit and

misses I was finally able to nail him down for a short Q&A. The previous two years was just a blur of communication, time and availability on both parts. Either I was on the other side of the world dealing with “Mallakas in Greece, German Beer in Berlin or securing my taste buds with Guinness in

LIFESTYLE

minutes as if we knew each other. Maybe he thought I was a security guy that was off that night and was scrounging around for free drinks. So started to ask the abnormal questions right off the bat. * You see in LA beating around the bush is a norm, and camoflaguing your antics is part of the criteria. But for some reason Valentino took to me and invited me for a drink. At this point I didnt say, I was with the media and

Dublin, we just couldn’t nail down a time.

This time around I was in LA and Valentino was one of the first people I contacted. I asked; “Where is the party?”

Even after all those flaky arranged meetings that never came into fruition, he remained positive and not passive aggressive. His was response was; “Beau just come to Greystone tonight, your names at the door player, your comped.” The problem was, there was no way I was going to conduct an interview in the midst of another LA session flanked by gorgeous dollies! So we nailed a Q&A. WJ: What is the normal procedure on how people look you up and hire you?

Ceasar: Basically word of mouth. We always deliver a good time. The fact that we get paid for this is great but at the same time we love classy situations and making sure people have a good time. Because it involves beautiful women?! Well someone has to do it. Lucky us.

WJ: Where do you get the energy from nite after nite. .surely your not consuming alcohol every nite.

Ceasar: Red Bull lots of Red bull haha Nah, my roommate is actually a big distributor for Red Bull, so we usually have unlimited supplies at home...but I don’t drink carbonated drinks much unless in a tasty drink. And even then, I hardly drink haha. I guess I can say I drink socially. In the right moment. I’ve modeled and I’m a health and fitness aficionado, so I guess I can say I’m too vain to drink much haha.

I can’t stand feeling or looking out of shape haha.. When the party is going great, that’s when I’ll join with one or two drinks max.

WJ: The holiday season is here now and everyone normally parties or enjoy 10

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

themselves a little more than usual. Is it any different for you?

Ceasar: Yes its busy now and it gets busier within the next few months. That’s my biggest governor as its the time, that I totally want to join in with my clients and go all out. But you also have to stay professional in the job to cater to your guests and facilitate a great party WJ: From the outside people think you are with a different girl every nite .. and its your job to make sure people come to LA/ Hollywood to have a good time.. so your personal life has to suffer.. would you think that is a valid statement?

Ceasar: Yes, it appears to many I’m a f*ckaholic haha and don’t get me wrong, like little Wayne says...I wish I could f*ck every girl in the world... Nonetheless, my sex life is pretty normal haha. Well, to some it would seem like greatly above average, but considering the amount of beautiful woman I am constantly around I would say I have a pleasant sex life and not a crazy sex life, maybe sometimes crazy, but not always My personal life does suffer, but mainly with insecure girls. I am who I am regardless of my work and it takes a secure girl to hang with me, thing which I find very attractive in women, confidence. Girls that are not confident get intimidated and lash out in different ways when they learn of my work in nightlife, some get shy, some get frustrated, and some try to make me jealous. None of this ever works though haha.

WJ: What makes what you different than others not in Hollywood but the world in the Club arena?

Ceasar: We deliver! The proofs in the pudding and of course within the masses. Haha.

LIFESTYLE

WJ: So what about these infamous Facebook quotes you put out there while you are working?

That is insane your doing it while you are working yet 90% of the people who are replying are former clients.

Ceasar: Well there you have it.

Like I said we deliver. I mean some of it may be a little to blunt, but we are witnessing things night in and night out. And its just commenting on our observations. I dont think my comments offend the innocent parties but those who are offended are most likely guilty!

One of Ceasar infamous Facebook qoutes: “Call me old fashion or call me boring but if an after party doesn’t involve sex I’m out. I’m too old for anything else but I’ll never be too old for sex#therealpartyisindabedroom? #igotshittodo #notupallnighttoogetlucky?”

12

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

FEATURE FOCUS

SHARON OTOO

BY JEROME BO FITTS

Sharon Otoo and I paths crossed in October 2008, at the America House in Berlin, when a mutual acquaintance was taking part in a panel discussion. We all know what time of the year that was and why that particular period of time was a mark in history (Obama 2008).

And those individuals would be “People of Color”. So I was surprised when a lovely young lady with her 3 kings (her 3 sons at the time), stood up and challenged the panel on a number of topics, when most sat there in either disbelief of the panel speakers or wasn’t raised to do so.

Earlier in the summer, Mr. Obama had spoken in front of nearly a quarter of a million people at Berlin Tiergarten, as part of his U.S. presidential campaign. Yes a quarter of a million people. Now for those of you that don’t know, there cant be a quarter of a million Americans in Berlin, so I really didn’t understand the purpose of the appearance.

(Even though I thoroughly enjoyed my birds eye view from the front row). And I can assure you Mr. Obama historical appearance made little difference.

Sharon was sharp, to the point and not only articulate with her questions but creative with her repeated questions. She wanted to know more, and made a point of stating that she is not American but actually British yet from Ghana. And I got the feeling afterwards that this young lady had more to say.

Ok what’s the significance of mentioning this.

Well when our paths crossed, one of the panel members was a major supporter and at the time, this particular person was a Youtube phenomenon. And from my ten years of living in Berlin, there was one thing that I have a strong opinion on is, there is a “peek a boo” crowd that participates in “lets follow the crowd but not me first” in speaking about issues that are relevant and/ or speaking up for themselves in Germany.

So when I was in Berlin for the better part of 2012, I wasn’t surprised that another mutual friend had pointed out a book by “someone of Color” in Germany titled “the things i am thinking while smiling politely”. Naturally, I had to jump at the chance to do a piece on Sharon, but the one point was “where do I start?”

There are a number of issues and subjects The Worthwhile Journal are committed to covering within the “Auslander” community but that will have to wait.

This time around I wanted to stick to some questions that would lead to another full blown 5 part series of articles.

The book: “the things i am thinking while smiling politely” Do you know one of those movies that you have to watch twice to fully understand the meaning, yet there is something that draws you to it again.

Then you ask yourself “Now wait a minute”. Why leave us hanging like that? And “I cant wait for the next issue”. “the things i am thinking while smiling politely”, is one of those books, where it seems that the author purposely left us with those questions; Is this a journal of a woman’s heart in trial and tribulations in Berlin from a Black woman’s point of view? Is this 14

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

the debauchery that exists in the city that is now renown for free living and a steady cheap economy? And more importantly, why would anyone continue to keep themselves in those surroundings if it was this bad. But the book had little to do with complaining. Again it’s worth the purchase and the wait of shipping. We will let you define this well define book On behalf of the Worthwhile Journal, I recently had a chance to catch up with the author of “the things i am thinking while smiling politely”. At first I thought ok, another self-titled “Black community activist in Germany” that is writing a book based on their experience, that never goes the nine yards

of a change. - But to OUR surprise the book is quite good and a enjoyable one.

Unless you are familiar with the “People of Color” within the German community, you might find it worth a second read. A sure fire keeper!

(WJ): What is the empowerment courses you guys put on? / Is it really that bad that you guys have to have courses to teach “People of Color” how to defend themselves?

(Sharon): Empowerment is a very important concept for marginalized people who face daily and structural

discrimination. In the case of Black people living in Germany, it is really important to create Black-only spaces, where we can just breathe out... So for the ISD (Initiative Schwarze Menschen in Deutschland engl.

Initiative of Black People in Germany) we organize an annual meeting which takes place over a long weekend every summer. We book out an entire youth hostel and anyone who identifies as Black is invited to attend. For many Black people who have grown up as the only Black person in their neighborhood, this is an experience, which cannot be overestimated. It is provides a much-needed relief from the negativity and exoticism, which many Black people are bombarded with on a daily basis. ADEFRA is another organizat ion (for Black women in Germany), which provides safe spaces for women. With their motto “Wellness is a political act” you can see the concept: in a racist society, Black people are not supposed to have it good. That’s why if we look after ourselves, if we pamper ourselves, we are already behaving in a revolutionary way. There are also empowerment courses - and those are great. There is an organization called Phoenix, for example, that offers empowerment courses for Black people and people of color and anti-racism courses for

- Sharon Otoo

white people. And yes, these courses are really necessary.

(WJ): Don’t you think that is a little too much in being controlled. As how would you know and who would be teaching the courses? And people have to pay for this.

The rest of the world does this for free and don’t need a controlled room in order to teach someone self respect or how do defend their human rights.

(Sharon): No, I don’t think it is too controlled. For anyone who doubts, I would say: please try it. I took part in an empowerment course in Brighton, England by Razia Aziz once and I was blown away. At first, I thought I would be just participating for professional reasons (I was an Anti-Racial Harassment Policy Coordinator). But I quickly realized, I was there for private reasons. Since then I have participated in empowerment courses by people like Prof. Dr. Grada Kilomba.

I believe there is no substitute for being in a room full of people who collectively work on healing themselves from their racist conditioning.

This is done physically, discursively and intellectually. I can only recommend it, especially if the trainers are

as talented and experienced as Razia or Grada are.

(WJ): Is it really that bad when someone doesn’t recognize they are being discriminated against there?

(Sharon): You know, people internalize all sorts of things. Sometimes yes, you really don’t know (or you don’t allow yourself to know) that you are being discriminated against. It is a coping strategy. Who wants to admit that they are being victimized? Most people want to be in control of their lives, make choices and be strong.

Racism is a powerful force, because it is sometimes invisible and often denied by the dominant society even when it is blatant.

Very good point. And if you are trained or raised not to recognize it based on those majority feelings (of not being a minority), it’s fair to say that it’s needed. If this is the case in Germany then it should be an event put on more often.

(WJ): You know people from around the world in my travels ask me all the time “is Germany really that racist still?” and this is after me NOT saying anything other than pointing out facts from my experience of there after 10 years. Without expanding more information at all other than that, because most people don’t believe me. Is there something you would like to give an example to that most doesn’t understand on the outside that this is happening

FEATURE FOCUS

“Unless yo u are familiar with the people of colour in Germany, the book maybe worth a second read!”

in the 2013?

(Sharon): Oh wow. Where to begin? I guess the best example of the moment may be the Blackface debate. Here it is a very common practice for white people to paint their faces with brown paint and pretend to be “African” / “African American” / “Jamaican” whatever. It happens on stage, it happens on television, it happens during carnivals, there are even organizations called “The Cameroonians” (www.die-kameruner.de, check out their logo)- they are of course not really from Cameroon, they are just a bunch of white dudes who in the past have dressed up like “real Cameroonians” and as far as I know they still call their meetings “N-word meetings.”

Wow. Well that is sometime WJ will most certainly look into as well as the part 5 series.

At this point my attention turned a little more severe. Not with hate or anger as I do know a very pleasant Germany and everywhere has its highs and lows. But as proud as I was to be interviewing Sharon I had to direct a more straight to the point question.

( WJ): W hats been done about it Sharon? Has there been any progress.

(Sharon): Yes, I think there has been progress, though there is still a long way to go.

In 2012 the group Bühnenwatch (Engl.

Stagewatch) was founded. This group actually came together on the Internet. Different individuals were protesting on the Facebook pages of two different theatres in Berlin who were using blackface (one claimed they did it because they could not find any Black actors). Since then letter writing campaigns have been coordinated, international on-line petitions have been started, papers have been written and we had an event last autumn in cooperation with the Free 16

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

University, Berlin. One of the theatres did stop the use of Blackface – Bühnenwatch had a lot to do with that.

(WJ): In your own words what would you like to see be done?

(Sharon): Good question. I am modest. I would like people to be quiet and think.

And read a book and then think some more.

I would already be happy if people asked some intelligent questions and really listened to the answers. The problem in Germany is that, white men, who think they have the right of definition, typically dominate discussions on race and racism. Sadly, their knowledge is limited to “my Black friend says” or something similar. Also, racism is equated with right-wing extremism, which means honest conversations are problematic. People end up being defensive and offended instead of being open-minded and

(WJ): The unity of people of color in Germany. Has the support system grown or has it been a counseling sessions to make themselves feel better then go back out and tolerate the same situations only to come back to that same counseling sessions.

(Sharon): I think the processes are longer than we realize. I believe, viewed over the long term the Black and of Color communities have come a very long way. We have created safe-spaces for ourselves, we have published books, we have created films, we have professional theatre companies, we have business support networks, we are getting our foot in the doors of predominantly white institutions and affecting decisions made there, we are creating niches for ourselves in Germany where Black people can be seen to be normal. Yes, it definitely could be better. But it has improved. And in small steps it keeps getting better.

It’s really hard to believe that this is after the millennium in Germany. It seems so far behind the rest of the world.

(WJ): As a season ticket holder of Alba Berlin (basketball), and as a journalist that follows the team, I noticed that in a arena of 20k people I would be one of 3 in the whole arena that was Black. Why is that? / Does the people of Color support sports in Germany? I mean sports and music is the number one outlet of people and a gathering of all nationalities.

(Sharon): I can’t answer that one! I personally do not attend, as I cannot afford tickets for sports events on a regular basis.

(WJ): Who would be a community leader for the people of Color there in Berlin??

(Sharon): I think there wouldn’t be one single one. I think there couldn’t be one single one. Within the community we are far too diverse. We don’t even all agree on who could be considered to be People of Color.

I think for the moment we are doing the solution we have found works. We have different groups catering to the different needs and we talk to each other. A lot. This also involves conf lict. Black people are a fragmented people and we are deeply scarred by that. A lot of the dialogue between the different People of Color communities in Berlin necessarily involves listening, learning and understanding.

(WJ): Do you think the people born there from mixed relationships are more supportive. I have witnessed that depending on the choice and circumstances they are Black.

(Now we all know it doesn’t matter, but in Germany it does) and when the flame hits the fan, they run to people like you in a counseling situation. Its really sad and some would say (not me but other well known leaders) that they are the weakest link in the Black race because they tolerate, support and/or just don’t know any better to defend themselves or support one another more. Even though they are discriminated against. It sort of reminds me when there were ghettos in the Nazi party era and they appointed some Jews to be guards of authority (even though they were going to get terminated just as well). So in comparison the mothers that had these Black children would manipulate their mind

FEATURE FOCUS

openhearted.

into thinking they were different than normal Black of purity. And in reality they aren’t German by law! Sad right. So how do you feel about the aforementioned facts?

(Sharon): This question just doesn’t work for me. Black is a political definition. I know that there are different life realities for people who have two Black parents, to those who have one Black parent and one white

18

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

one; and it makes a difference if you grew up with your Black parent in the same household or if you only grew up with a white parent (or parents). Still we are all Black. I don’t like the term mixed race as it implies there is something such as a pure race. There isn’t. Race is a social and political construct and we shouldn’t forget that. We should remember that the concept of race was created to justify the kidnapping, enslavement, torture, rape and murder of millions of Africans. This is a legacy that all members of the African diaspora carry in them.

You don’t have half of it. In a fundamentally racist society you cannot be half-privileged.

This is why I use the term Black written with a capital B – it is not intended to describe skin colour it describes a political struggle.

Yes, there are Black people who do not consider they to be Black, or who could and do pass as white, and there are people who have internalized racism and use oppression against other Black people. But this to me is not necessarily linked directly to those who have white parents. This is for me a matter of personal journeys. There are individuals, who take the opportunity to reflect on their heritage and on their political position. Then there are areas where they are oppressed and the areas where they are privileged and to work on that. To work collaboratively with others to make the world a better place. Some do this and some choose not to. But there is no genetic basis for that; it is a matter of personal choice.

VS

THE FIGHT FAN CONTRIBUTED BY: Karina TAYLOR

Within the popular world of MMA/UFC fighting there is the Fan and the Fighter. The Worthwhile Journal dug deep in the belly of the beast (Las Vegas), to find a relevant story of an up and coming fighter and a avid fan.

When we reached out to the fighter (Karina Taylor) over the phone, that the idea of FAN vs. FIGHTER piece reached a point of fruition. None of us here at WJ expected the FAN to be her longstanding boyfriend.

As a professional MMA Fighter who lives in the “Fight Capital of The World”, Las Vegas, Nevada, I have not only had the pleasure of training with some of the UFC’s top names but to also call them my friends. As a f ighter for the last six years, I think that I look at the sport differently than that of a fan. So I wanted to take a look at how different the perspectives are as “Fighter vs The Fight Fan” and what better way than to ask one of the biggest Fight Fans I know,(my boyfriend Michael Farrington).

It was exciting to find out as he walked us through his ritual for a live UFC event.

PROFILE: THE FIGHTER: Karina TAYLOR I was born and raised in Olympia, WA. I am a former Army Military Police Officer. I have trained in Boxing, Muay Thai (Kickboxing), Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi and No-Gi, Wrestling and Grappling. When I was in the military, I often found myself excelling in all aspects of

SPORTS

THE FIGHTER

20

| The Worthwhile JournalŠ |

“The journey to and from an actual live UFC MMA event between the Fan vs The Fighter, is naturally different.”

physical fitness. Six years ago, I stumbled into MMA by accident. I was invited by one of my friends to join for a kickboxing class and I was really out of shape. After my first class I was hooked and I told everyone at the gym I was going to be a professional MMA Fighter. Everyone laughed at the time, because I I could hardly breath and I looked like I was gonna pass out. But I later proved my commitment by making my professional debut the following year. When I first started training I weighed 160lbs. In the last 6yrs I have lost between 35-47lbs, my weight varies depending if I have a fight coming up. MMA has changed my life. I found a family in the mixed martial arts community and I have been slowly making a name for myself.

PURCHASING THE TICKETS The FAN: ( MICHAEL) I use my “UFC Fight Club” membership to check Ticketmaster as soon as the “Fight Club Presale” begins typically 10a.m on a Wednesday. If I don’t like what Ticketmaster is bringing up, I wait until Saturday so I can go in person to the box office and get the very best seat possible. Aisle seats are important since the majority of UFC attendees being male, the men’s room can grow quite the line in between fights. Aisle seats help you make a beeline as soon as the ref steps in or the air horn sounds. There is no shame in attending a fight alone because your friends don’t want to put up “that kind of money”.

The FIGHTER: ( Karina)

THE FAN: MICHAEL FARRINGTON Michael has been a fan since watching Marco Ruas defeat three opponents dating back to September 1995. While he has attended over 40 live UFC events, the first of which was UFC 28 which was prior to Zuffa purchasing the brand from SEG. This was a time when fighters would walk freely around the arena before or after fights without being recognized. The fascination of the sport Michael had eventually led him to relocating to Las Vegas so it would enable him to attend more live MMA fights.

22

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

Purchasing the Tickets….I’ve only purchased one UFC ticket in my entire life, September 19, 2007. It was The Finale for TUF #11 In Pearl at The Palms Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. The main event was Kenny Florian vs Din Thomas. I was working for Master Toddy at his Muay Thai Academy at the time and I bought the ticket the day of the fights with my last $100. One of my friends was a Muay Thai instructor for one of the other gyms and text me that Kenny Florian was one of his friends and I should meet them there. Had it not been for Stephan Bonnar being at my gym the previous day, for sparring and talking about going to the fights, I might not have even bought the ticket.

Yeah, I had a crush on Bonnar back then.

So what! Like a lot of other fighters out there I am on a very strict budget and purchasing tickets is just not something I can afford.

Since I have made more friends and became

SPORTS

better known in the MMA community as a fighter, its always last minute calls from other friends, fighters or sponsors telling me they have a couple free tickets asking if I would like to go. This usually occurs about an hour or so before the main fight card begins but hey; “I’m not paying so I’m not complaining!”

WEIGH IN’S The FAN: When I go to smaller promotions, it isn’t hard to get a good view, but a good seat at UFC weigh-ins requires some dedication.

“Fight Club” members get in early, usually for an exclusive Q&A session, after which the doors are open to the public. You have to be there before doors open to the public

to snatch a good spot although the weighins doesn’t start for another hour. Some people might think a multi-hour ordeal to see some fighters step on scales is ridiculous.

24

| The Worthwhile JournalŠ |

They may not be wrong, but hey, at the track you like to see the horses walked before you place your bets, no?

WJ: Good point! (Ed-)

The FIGHTER: I’ve only really gone to a couple weigh-ins, other than my own. They’re usually held on a Friday afternoon and at that time I’m usually at the gym training PRO Practice. As a fighter I don’t really see the point of going cause at the gym I’m busy getting my face punched in by half the guys you see on TV. If you’re an MMA fan then some of these names will probably ring a bell; Randy Couture, Vitor Belfort, Gray Maynard, Johny Hendricks, Ronaldo Souza, Dan Hardy, Forrest Griffin, Martin Kampmann, Wanderlei Silva, Bristol Marunde, Mike Pyle, Matt Riddle, Stephan Bonnar, Ryan Couture, Jay Hieron, Robert Drysdale, to name a few that I’ve had the pleasure of training with over the last six years. Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t train with all of these guys every day. But again, whats the point of going to weigh-ins when I can be at the gym training with them live?

THE EVENT The FAN: As a diehard fan I have a strict set of rules I have made and abide by:

1

Get there on time, often times the prelims are the best fights.

2 Buy a t-shirt.

3 4

Not drinking before the main card, because you will need all your faculties to watch the action.

Not getting up or going back to your seat while a round is in progress.

5

Try not to encourage the drunk and/or ignorant people around you yelling things like “kick him in the balls” (and they will be around you).

6

Keep a camera on at all times as you never know who you’ll run into.

7

If you wager at the sportsbook more money than you paid for your ticket… you should have bought a better

ticket!

8

Never “boo” a fighter, save it for referees and the judges.

9 Put your phone away.

10

After the fights try to weasel your way into the post-fight press conference, not the

after parties.

26

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

Photo by: Seventh Core Media (facebook/ twitter@7thcore)

As I mentioned before, I get my last minute tickets. That means about 9 out of 10 times I miss all the prelims. Sometimes that’s not always a good thing, because there is usually at least one really awesome bloody battle that leaves the octagon a total mess. In my opinion the more blood the better! When I go to the fights it’s more of a social outing for me. Yes, I watch the fights but I’m also hanging out with other professional fighters who I haven’t seen in a while from other states. It’s kinda like a mini fighter reunion.

I’m usually not as focused on all the fights except the one’s where a friend or training partner is getting it on. Then its hard to even sit still. Kinda like playing Nintendo when you have the controller in your hand and your arms tend to flail about. After the fights are over I usually meet up with a bunch of the other fighters to grab something to eat then go home to take a nap. Yes, I go home and take a nap. Don’t forget I’ve been training all week, an most likely was at the gym when the tickets were offered to me. After about an hour I wake up shower then head out to meet everyone for one of the guys who fought on the cards after parties at one of the Las Vegas night clubs. I only like to make a short appearance have a drink or two then head home.

Follow them both: Karina Taylor @cat5fighter www.facebook.com/karina.taylor.12 Michael Farrington @stophittingme For general information email: cat5fighter@gmail.com

SPORTS

The FIGHTER:

VINTAGE CAR

RACING with Andre’ Gagne INTERVIEWED BY: JEROME BEAU FITTS

28

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

On the very last stop of our Worth Journey Summer 2013, I came across a very unusual relevant story in a not so remote place. Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

In typical WJ fashion and searching for a story to either read or hear about with a delicate taste of good vino and a delicate dish, I was flatted to have the honor in meeting “ah um” vintage race car owner/driver André Gagné.

When I sat down to push the record button on my recorder and to my own ignorance, I started the series of questions with one of the most ignorant questions.

“So how did you get into classic car racing?” And to Andre’s credit with a wide smile was “Well, first off its not classic car racing, these are vintage racecars”. – Ok great start Beau.

André: In 1998, at an race event called; Legends of Motorsport in Mt Tremblant, Québec, I was invited by Maserati for a driving experience on the track, and for some reason the cars

“There was some vintage cars on the track and I wanted to be apart of this magnificent parade.”

30

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

were held up at customs coming from the States into Canada.

During that same weekend there were some vintage cars races, looking at the cars, I thought it would be fun to be apart of this magnificent parade. So I asked a few guys, who were apart of the event, how do you get involved? - because to me, it looked quite easy.

They told me I had to take a racing course and also become a member of a local Vintage Club, pass a medical test, prepare a car and Voilà!

André continued to say; “ Well I passed the course as I already had a lot of experience in driving fast cars. I mean at the time I was driving an Audi S4. So that wasn’t the issue, although going 250 kilometers on the highway is quite easy when you

are going straight, but also very dangerous. When I took the course, I realized that driving on a road course wasn’t easy at all.

Everything goes really fast. And it takes times and skills to anticipate every curves and to learn all the physics of keeping the car on the ground!

I did some lapping at different road course for at least two years before entering my first race event.

32

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

WJ (Beau): Lapping?

André: Yes, lapping is just driving around the track. There is no racing at all. It’s just learning the racecourse and feeling comfortable with the car. Being in a race involves being able to drive a fast car but there is also all the strategy of winning a race. It’s never finish until you pass the checkered flag.

WJ (Beau); Amazing. One would think

that when most start off with competitive racing they would start on a dirt track or a less maintenance vehicle. Again these are “ah um” vintage cars. Did you worry about crashing such an expensive car?

André: While extending his smile even wider André responded: “At my first race I crashed my car!”

Sure there are financial implications that

are involved but usually people tend to drive a car that they can afford to fix. You don’t need a 1968 365GTB Ferrari Daytona worth three millions dollars to have fun and win event (Although, I would love to have one), but you could get a 1961 Austin Sprite for around 10K and probably with the trailer, and you will have as much pleasure.

Being in front, at the rear or in the middle of the pack don’t matter; all you need is a few cars to fight against. At the end if you finish

34

| The Worthwhile JournalŠ |

"You have to remember Beau; "To me everyday is a Saturday"

first because your car was faster than he others, there is not much to be proud of, but when you fight to keep your position, that’s where the fun is.

My first racecar was a 1972 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000, and during my first race I hit a wall. The car was badly damaged in the rear but luckily I found another one that was damaged in the front we welded the rear into the original car since the rest was fine.

I went back racing as soon as I could. But I leaned the meaning of this expression for rookies: Too fast. Too soon!

36

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

WJ (Beau); But why vintage racing if there is such a high maintenance in the sport?

André: Well I was collecting vintage cars before racing them. Since the age of 5 or 6, I had been collecting cars, toy cars of course, so when I grew up, I started collecting the real ones. So my love for old cars was always there. I did a few Antique car shows, showing my car to the public and chatting with them. But racing them is just totally awesome.

Even though we can modify the cars, it should be left as close as it original form.

The modifications are mainly for security, a cage, an extinguisher, racing seat belt, racing tires, etc… But when it comes to thing such as the brakes, they can’t be modified.

Everyone is racing their cars just the way they were. Although you are allowed to boost your engine, you have to be sure the rest of the car will follow. It’s all a question of balance, low gravity, weight and power.

WJ(Beau); Do you find that because it’s Vintage Car Racing and it’s perceived as being fun, the drivers are technically better?

André: Things get serious when you put your

helmet on. Everyone is very competitive. We can all laugh, eat together and have a beer (after the race) or whatever. But… (deep sigh).

Once you are in the car, follow the pace car and finally the green light goes on, my mind get into a bubble, and for the whole race it is only focus on passing the guy in front of me.

Races last between 20 minutes to an hour.

WJ: So how do you get the worldwide invitations for the races?

André: Well my car has raced around the world. But I mainly participate in the races in North America.

“In my very first race I crashed, going into reverse.”

“These cars are worth at least a quarter of a million dollars each and I have 3 cars of them.”

38

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

If your car has an historic racing value, such has being the car of famous drivers in the sixties, you may receive invitations from different Vintage clubs to participate in their event.

Some famous cars are worth lots of money, I was at Palm beach this February for a charity event, and one lady was racing a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO worth 35 million dollar.

I personally own a: 1971 Alexis MK18B Formula Ford. 1963 Lotus 23B Sport racer and a 1989 Ralt Rt-33 Formula 3 WJ: What about insurance?

As long as the car is in your garage or in the trailer, it will be insured, but at the moment you hit the track, no more.

PLATELET RICH PLASMA THERAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY DR. CHRIS HOLLINSWORTH

PLATELETS NEXT TO LARGER RED BLOOD CELLS

Similar to the way formula one racing technology eventually makes its way into production cars, sports medicine technology used on professional athletes eventually becomes standard of care. One of these interesting new techniques is called “Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy” or PRP. This treatment has been around since the late 1990s and the idea is, by taking a small amount of the patient’s own blood and placing this through filters or into a centrifuge, certain cell types and healing factors, namely platelets, are concentrated for re-injection elsewhere in the body.

messenger molecules called cytokines that serve to communicate between cells, in this case promoting healing and regeneration.

Platelets in particular release angiogenin, platelet derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and epidermal growth factor. These proteins signal surrounding cells to begin reconstruction, form new blood vessels, and repair damage. The idea is by isolating these cells that promote healing and injecting them locally right into the injured area, you amplify and shorten the healing process, and reduce inflammation.

To understand the process better, whenever your body is injured certain cells migrate to the injured area and release certain small

PRP has been used to aid the healing of chronic wounds, broken bones, torn ligaments, and nerves. It also has been utilized

40

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

The research data on the subject is still a few years away from being able to show definitively that it works. Until there are some large, multicenter clinical trials of platelet rich plasma therapy it will probably not receive widespread implementation.

PLATELETS JOINT

There are some animal studies that have suggested there may be a role for some unconventional drugs used for high blood pressure that have a synergistic effect when used with PRP to augment muscle healing, but human trials of these kinds of treatments are years away.

Another issue with the treatment is how to develop a cost effective standardized way to administer it. Until the research data is published, and a more effective widely accepted efficient form of the treatment becomes available, PRP will remain a treatment for professional athletes. For now we are still left to wonder if this is the future of sports medicine or just a trend.

JOINT INJECTION TECHNIQUE

HEALTH

in the treatment of arthritis and tendinitis.

Surgeons also use PRP post operatively to speed healing and reduce inf lammation after orthopedic, plastic, and dental surgery.

What is appealing about the treatment, is since you are only injecting the patient’s autologous blood back into them, there is very little risk, and no medication to have side effects from. Some high profile athletes including Kobe Bryant, Tiger Woods, Troy Polamalu, and Takashi Saito have all received treatment with PRP, as well as many others, but does it work?

“In Oman and Dubai, I felt like Princess Jasmine.

It wa s s uch a beautiful country!”

42

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

FA SH ION

COURTNEY SMITH

BY JEROME BEAU FITTS

( WJ): We noticed that you are multi-talented but what is your main focus within the industry?

Yes, in this industry you need to dip your fingers into so many different areas to make an impact; I am a fashion writer and columnist, I am a television presenter and contributor in the expert role of the fashion industry and for the most part I am a fashion stylist. Being a fashion stylist is my biggest role on a day to day; I style shoots for commercial clients and magazine editorials. I adore it because each day is different I get to come up with creative concepts for shoots and bring them to life with styling and creative direction.

(WJ): Who are the biggest names you have worked with thus far?

Well I am not celebrity driven; when it comes to shoots its more about the overall idea than who is modeling for me. I did however get the opportunity to once work with Kelly Rowland, Aleesha Dixon and Amy Winehouse while working as a personal stylist in a well-known London boutique at the very beginning of my career.

(WJ): How did you get into the industry?

I studied fashion design in college and one of my tutors pushed me in the direction of

styling as I used to do photo shoots with all my collections. So I did a postgrad in the prestigious London College of Fashion in fashion media – which had fashion styling, writing and PR as part of the course. After that I worked in a boutique in London dressing all their top clients and celebrities and then moved into styling shoots for magazines. (It was a lot slower than that obviously – it didn’t happen overnight!) I started styling test shoots – which in the industry means free shoots to get your name known and skills honed and then slowly but surely worked my way up the ranks. I am freelance or self-employed which I love because there is no limit to the brands and magazines I can work with and pitch to.

Excerpt: “when it comes to shoots its more about the overall idea than who is modeling for me.”

(WJ): Has it been what you expected and could you see yourself doing something else?

It’s much harder work than I expected – but I am not afraid of hard work. I LOVE what I do so can’t really imagine doing anything else, but I do feel my role can grow and wouldn’t limit myself from going back to design or writing books on fashion either.

The world is my oyster really.

“The blogs and websites fo r fa shio n , takes the

44

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

elite-ism out of fashion and makes it more accessible”

“In f ive years time I hope to be working a lot more internationally.�

21, what have been your favorite most exotic place thus far?

Oh I don’t know if I can pick a favorite; Cape Town was one of my first far f lung cities for shoots and the experience alone was insane; we travelled around the coast and shot in some incredibly amazing places. Although I was in Oman and Dubai in the Middle East this year for more shoots and it was such a cultural experience – completely out of my comfort zone and immersed in a new world, I felt like Princess Jasmine in a beautiful country, the Souk markets and buildings are out of this world.

(WJ): here do you see yourself within your industry over the next 5 years.

Or where would you like to be career wise.. ?

(WJ): Where and when did it all begin?

Well I have been sketching and drawing models wearing dresses since I was a kid, I was always arty and creative. My mum used to come home and I would have cut up all her tights and jumpers to make dresses – there is even a picture of me putting on my first fashion show aged 8. I think it was a given that I would end up pursuing fashion as a career – it’s in my bones!

(WJ)How do you compare the new age media formats advantages vs. the old school way of physical publications?

(There seems to be a lot of DIY apparels out there).

You mean blogs and websites for fashion? I think it’s great… we get instant access to fashion shows and trends. It takes the elite-ism out of fashion and makes it accessible to everyone. It also means young creative get their work seen internationally which can help build a profile and a career.

(WJ): You have traveled all over the world working, at the tender age of 46

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

In five years time I hope to be working a lot more internationally, I wouldn’t rule out moving to New York or L.A as there is a bigger commercial market there for shoots. I would hope to continue the success I have had so far and perhaps have a small collaboration fashion line and a book on the cards… dream big eh!

Follow me on twitter @cocosmithstyle Check out instagram COCOSMITHSTYLE S ee my shoot s here w w w.cou r t neysmith.ie Check my videos on youtube www.youtube.com/courtneystylist

CHRIS WARRIOR

BY JEROME BO FITTS

48

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

This month we are featuring, singer songwriter and respected Hollywood producer Chris Warrior. We all know that most musical artist are diverse and legend has it that in the selfish business of Music, the artist are known for putting themselves and their craft above everyone else. And doing whatever it takes to “get there”. For those of you that don’t know or who have probably listened to his music and didn’t realize it, Chris gives!? Rare? Yes. Below Mr. Warrior explains why he decided to take care of everyone else first and explains the current selection of songs that are scheduled for a summer release.

Those selection of songs have been titled “Addicted”.

WJ: “Addicted”- the album. Is this a solo album? Or is this an album representing Warrior Creations and past collaborators?

It’s a solo project that has been in development for a number of years. I started it in 2010 but with my life in total chaos back then, it took this long to complete. It’s been a long journey, but a WorthWhile(!) one indeed. When I first started the project I was working as producer and engineer on a few different projects. One of the guys was a new artist that was signed to Ludacris’s record label, D.T.P Def Jam. The guy was a model turned singer named, Steph Jones. While working on his album I came up with the concept for “Addicted.” Being in the music industry is a double edge sword. As you gain more and more attention in this game, you also gain more money, more girls, you get approached by more people with access to things you may have never had access to before. I say all that to say that it’s easy to get caught up in a whole new lifestyle and sometime that can be a great thing but some aspects of it can be negative. At that time in my life I was enjoying the attention I was getting, it was addicting. All of a sudden label executives were taking me seriously, music publishers were inviting me by the office to hang out. I was being invited to Hollywood parties that were full of movie stars

PHOTO BY THE WORTHWHILE JOURNAL @

and music legends. In a flash I got addicted to the life style. Addiction is a common thing; most of us are addicted to one thing or another. For example a lot of folks are addicted to technology, games, their phone, love, sex, or money (the things money can buy). But I was addicted to a fantasy, a life style fantasy. It’s like I was trying to live out some dream that wasn’t even my own, I had seen it in a movie and decided that that was going to be my life.

Instead of just living my life as I wanted, I started to believe that the dream of being famous was fame itself. And I got distracted. The money, the attention, the girls, and the idea of being famous distracted me. In my fantasy; fame is about being rich, slick, good looking and cool. But in real life fame is more about hard work, staying focused on the goal and being disciplined. And that’s what the album is about. It’s a journey through all of my addictions, all my fantasies and how those illusions lead me down different paths in my life... some good and others... well lets just say not so good.

As far as collaborations go, yes. I have some co-writes on the album. I have co-producers on some tracks. I even have other artist and rappers on my hooks. My mottos is, if it adds vibe to the overall project then bring it on baby. This album is really about me exploring all my addictions and finding the truest version of myself through that process. We all chase the dream but sometimes the dream can change us. This album is basically a journal based on what my thinking was over the last few years of my life. I think people are going to feel it.

WJ: Why now after all these years, do you feel like you had to release the record?

I’ve been making music for a long time man. I have worked for and with some amazingly talented artist and producers. I worked with Fergie before she was with The Black Eye Peas, I worked with Raphael Saadiq, Ice Cube, Angie Stone, J Davey, and Jordan Sparks to name a few. So I’ve had a lot of experience behind the vial. I have had an opportunity to see how a person can go from an unknown to a superstar. This is not my first go at this; I stumbled into it back in 2004 when I was in development over at Baby Face’s company, Edmonds Entertainment. It was an experience that changed my life. The funniest thing about it is that I wasn’t even looking to be an artist at the time. I was working with a group on Jay Z’s old record label Roca Fella Records. The name of the group was Christion. If memory serves me correctly, I did an acoustic set for them just to fill some time and when I was done a dude approached me from Baby Face’s company. We traded information and a month later I was offered a fat publishing deal, I was working on a major motion picture, Love Don’t Cost A Thing, with Nick Cannon, and I was recording my debut album at Tracy Edmonds’ brothers house in the Hollywood Hills. Everything was moving so fast and I had no sense of what would be required of me, I was just riding the wave and I made a ton of mistakes. In the midst to all the good stuff that was going on at Baby Face’s company, I had a very dear family become extremely sick. Eventually 50

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

she got so sick that she asked me to look after her because nobody else in family would care for her.

As my project gained momentum, and my name stated to spread around the industry, my family member became more and more dependent on me to help her make it from day to day. Everything finally came to a crossroads and I needed to make a choice between family and the possibility of fame. I choose to put my career on hold and help her make it though her last years of life. Even though it took me away from making music and living out my fantasy for a while, I feel like it made me a stronger individual, I don’t regret anything about my choice.

Once that chapter in my life was complete I got back to work. I feel like after years of working behind the scenes as a producer and songwriter in Hollywood, I needed to fulfill my potential. I have stories to share, I have experiences that are universal and I’ve realized that in order to have the type of success I want in this lifetime I have to build it myself. I can’t remain in the background and expect to win in the music game; I have to fight for my space in the sun and get my shine on. For the longest I put my faith in other artist, label executive, managers, you name it, I put my faith in it. When I was younger I didn’t realize that everyone has his or her own agenda and if I don’t make mine a priority nobody else will. Now that I’m a man with some wisdom, I feel it’s necessary for me to focus on my own personal journey like never before. That’s why I’m doing this album, it’s my way of telling myself that I believe in my own talent, my God given gifts and that I can win with them. Music is my weapon and I’m a freakin assassin.

WJ: What was the process in making “Addicted”?

My process was simple. Write some music that I loved. I respect a lot of artist and I have a ton of influences. I like old school and new school cats.

Music is feeling made in to sound and every great artist can make you feel something because they have become masters of their own feelings. I came up listening to rock, soul, new wave and rap, so I

wanted my project to contain all the elements of my influences. I also like the idea of fusing different styles together to create something original. I like jazz and dub step fusion, electro and classical fusion, there are an endless amount of style that can be combined to create something new, but it takes time to get it right. In that way I would say that this album is somewhat eclectic yet fused together with a bunch of other less musical elements.

I think my biggest musical influences, Prince, Jay Z, Lenny Kravitz, and The Black Eyed Peas can be felt on the tracks. I listened to them for inspiration before I start recording. My process is simple and easy. After I write or find a track I like I just turn on the mic and press record. I go from one phrase to the next without really thinking about it. I just try to tell a story that I find interesting. Most of the time when I record I have nothing in front of me; no phone, no ipad, pen, no paper or me. I just say whatever comes out and let it write itself. I try to just channel the energy in the room and make it

52

| The Worthwhile JournalŠ |

PHOTO BY THE WORTHWHILE JOURNAL @

feel natural. It can actually be a scary process because you have to have absolute confidence that you can tap into your own soul and bring forth something that nobody has ever heard. Some days it doesn’t flow but most of the time I get some heat going. The more I do it the better I get, but it’s a process. When I’m done I may not even listen back to the track, sometimes I just move to the next beat while I’m in the zone. Then a few days later I will go back and listen to everything and clean up parts so that the ideas are clear. That is all there

is to it. It’s all about vibe and flowing with the stream of consciousness being in the moment. There is no better feeling than being connected to your center of creativity at any given moment. It’s like having a conversation with a higher power that only you can hear. In a way making music is like being a magician because you make thing appear that didn’t exist. WJ: Heavy!

WJ: Is the album a collection of songs that you had in a vault and then revamped them to

suit the current market?

Some are from the vault and others are completely new. The new stuff is mostly rap and most of the singer songwriter stuff is older. In some cases, I kept the hooks from the older material and reproduced the music and verses. There are always those songs that are special and never seem to lose their strength, even though they may have been written 5 years ago. The fact is that a great song last forever, all you have to do is match the production to feeling the song

evokes. That’s no easy task but it’s not rocket science either.

WJ: What are your future plans for “Addicted” tour wise?

I want to share it with the entire world. I want the world to dance to this album. I want the world to know who I am. I want to leave a legacy behind that my family can appreciate. I think that art is one of the greatest contributions we can leave on the planet. If it makes somebody smile, shout, dance or fall in love, then I’ve done a good thing.

With so much garbage and chaos in the world we need more opportunities to decompress and just have fun. My hope is that everyone who hears this album will just have fun with it. I want to tour around the world and I think this album is going to help me do that.

PHOTO BY THE WORTHWHILE JOURNAL @

WJ: And if you are going to tour— what can the public expect in regards to a live performance?

My live performance is going to be fun, crazy, electric, eclectic, acoustic, unexpected, erotic, exotic, musical, creative and full of good vibes. Come see it.

WJ: Ok here is a tongue in cheek question and one that is rarely answered honestly within the music community, but what do you think of the current status of the music scene? Give it to us in three sections; Quality wise- there is a lot of DYI musicians out there now more than ever. How do you feel about that non-organic sound that is blatantly and obvious taking over what may have existed a mere 7-10 years ago? (Which to some could have been the last breath a true musician took).

Things happen in cycles. With each new piece of technology new artist and producers evolve music by employing that technology. It happened with 54

| The Worthwhile Journal© |

the invention of the electric guitar, the synth, the drum machine, the IPad, and the digital turntable.

Its just nature expressing itself through the musical community. Mostly I think it’s a good thing and if you watch closely, after the new technology has been explored and introduced to fans, it always come back to organic music styles. History shows that new musical styles are driven by technology but after a while it goes back to the organic nature of itself. I appreciate all of it and I’m exploring everything.

WJ: OriginalityAll music is derivative. I say that because every good melody is inspired by some other good melody. If a song moves me emotionally either with the melody, beat, the bass or the lyrics then it has done its job. I just want to feel the artist. I just want to feel the track. It doesn’t have to be completely original; it just has to have a soul. I think every artist should search for his or her own voice but borrowing from the surrounding community is a good thing. As an artist I don’t want to re-event the wheel, I just want a set of wheels that complement

my vehicle, my voice.

WJ: Creative wiseAnyone can make a song. My kids make up songs all the time. The creative process is intelligence being playful. If a song lacks creativity then the author is either not very intelligent or not very patient. Like I said, anyone can make a song but making a song that people connect with is a whole different process. The funny thing about music is, there is no way to really know for sure if people are going to feel you or not. Sometimes creativity can be completely absent and the song will be a hit and other times your can slave over a tune and nobody gets it. Creativity is good but finding a universal connection to the listener is better. I think music today is every bit as creative as it was 50 years ago. But there is a lot more technology to simplify the creative process. Because of this, some people choose the easy way out and do a lot of copying or sampling. But like I said earlier, if the fans feel it then the artist has done their job. It’s about making

people feel you, more than just being creative.

Being creative is just the beginning; you also need to have VIBE. The music has to have a soul of it’s own, it need to have a heartbeat and breath as if it’s alive. When a song has a life of its own, it becomes a classic. A talented engineer, a great producer and a unique artist are all essential to the process. When all the right elements are combined you can easily end up with pure magic... but finding the perfect combination takes time and patients. I’ve heard a ton of music that is very creative but gets no love because the artist forgot to involve the listener in their journey. Great artist are both creative and inclusive; they respect the fans and try to deliver a product that makes them happy and keeps their fans listening and craving more music.

WJ: In your opinion what was the last song recorded that would be considered a classic in say 10-15 years?

I can’t think of a single song but I can tell you which songwriters I think will last that long. Bruno Mars has some hit pop records and Adele is freaking amazing. I also like the Will.I.AM & Jay Z. They are very different types of rappers but both are incredible. I think they are going to mark the period. I would love to work with all of them.

chriswarriorxxl (Twitter) warriorcreation (Twitter) warriorcreations (Skype) www.linkedin.com/in/chriswarrior www.youtube.com/user/ warriorcreations www.myspace.com/ chriswarriormusic Email : chriswarrior@facebook.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/ chriswarrior