We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

OUR MESSAGE

We Are Jersey Magazine is a subsidiary company birthed out of the parent business entitled Jersey Turn’t Up Entertainment. Having achieved rising success within only two years of business, the owners wanted to create something that would expand their networking repertoire while promoting positive talent both locally and abroad. The idea of creating We Are Jersey Magazine began when co- CEOs, Daniel Banks & Bridget Papino, were featured in the NOVEMBER 2014 issue of another magazine company. After discussion with the owner of that magazine, as well as experiencing the positive responses that exposure generated towards their entertainment business, they decided to begin a magazine company of their own that would target a new type of entertainment promoting style. We Are Jersey Magazine’s goal is designed to provide exposure, references and resources that will influence all those aspiring to do something positive with the talents they possess. Through the lives of the individuals that are highlighted in the magazine, it is the desire of We Are Jersey Magazine to encourage, uplift and inspire anyone to continue to soar to greater heights and deeper depths with their abilities. While We Are Jersey Magazine primarily focuses on talent within the state of New Jersey, it is open to talent presented from abroad. The single focus is the promotion of positive talent so others can read and possibly experience for themselves the benefits that these talents offer. “We Are Jersey” is a positive platform with great opportunities. are highlighted in the magazine, it is the desire of We Are Jersey Magazine to encourage, uplift and inspire anyone to continue to soar to greater heights and deeper depths with their abilities. While We Are Jersey Magazine primarily focuses on talent within the state of New Jersey, it is open to talent presented from abroad. The single focus is the promotion of positive talent so others can read and possibly experience for themselves the benefits that these talents offer. “We Are Jersey” is a positive platform with great opportunities.

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by Sixto Gaspar We Are Jersey Magazine: November

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NOVEMBER

OUR MESSAGE

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LOVE BEYOND WALLS

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CONTENTS

To Lester, the sinks being installed in Paterson and any other city they partner with would be a representation of hope.

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SPIRITFAVS DECOR, LLC

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CEO of SpiritFavs Decor, LLC, Iyeshia C. , has always had a creative eye and vivid imagination.

TA'SHANA LEVERETTE

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Founder of FixMyCrownQueen, Ta’Shana Leverette, is blazing a path in creating a safe and comfortable space for women to gather and be able to speak freely.

SASHA MERCEDES

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Sasha Mercedes is not only a career-minded businesswoman and educated entrepreneur, she is a compassionate one who cares about her clients and her community.

DSD MAJOR

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DSD Major is a strong player within the cherished art form of Hiphop.

SOS OG

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SOS OG just dropped an anticipated EP, “She Wanted To Love A Rockstar” with hits like DIVA and S.W.T.L.A.R.

JUICE POTTER

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Juice Potter, a wizard none the less and an evil genius to say the least who’s magic lies in making music and being a jack of all trades.

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50 YOUNG RALLO

An innate gravitation towards music has been a part of Robbie Burke way before he was Young Rallo.

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REGGIE COUZ

When it comes to transitioning and rebranding Reggie Couz is cultivating his own lane by being strategic and always being true to his first passion: music. East Orange, New Jersey native Reggie Couz was first discovered during the days of Vine.

CONTRIBUTORS EDITOR Bee Papino

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Jersey is honored to have the ability of also being positively impacted by Love Sinks In as they are also installing portable sinks in Jersey’s very own city of Paterson.

54 JFLOW

He built his foundation from always uniting talented artists to bring together a catchy hook, dope verses with quality lyrics, a fire beat and great cohesively flow, throughout the community.

WRITERS Amy Lothian Melissa Maloon Marvin Ryles PUBLISHER Daniel Banks Bee Papino PHOTOGRAPHERS David Alexander LacQuan Scott Shelly Ferrell STYLIST Azari'el Sudan CREATIVE DIRECTION Kiani Bonner FEATURED Juice Potter SOS OG DSD Major Ta'Shana Leverette JFlow Love Beyond Walls SpiritFavs Decor, LLC Sasha Mercedes Young Rallo

ADS Dopest Cr3atives Loved By Lothian Mnday Mrkt Royal Soul Shade Official MODELS Our models can be followed on instagram @wearejerseydiamondz

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We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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LOCAL

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s you walk down the street and see someone sitting on the side of a building, all bundled up with mixed matched clothing decorated with dirt and holes, they seemingly havent showered in a few days, face painted with despair and pain and their only company a trash bag containing all of their belongings, what do you do? Do you offer food or money in attempt to help that person, or do you just glance down your nose and keep it pushing? If it is the latter response for you, then you are a part of society who needs to be made more aware of the disparities

https://www.lovebeyondwalls.org/lovesinksin/

Love Beyond Walls Partners include well-known and credible companies such as Abbvie, Hilton Hotels, See Beautiful, Google, The NFL Network, UPS, Southwest Airlines, Brawny, Gray Capital Matters, Delta Credit Union, Porsche, Jesse Parker Williams Foundation, and AEC Trust.

LOVE BEYOND WALLS

BY MELISSA MALOON 12

www.wearejerseyent.com

and issues of homelessness in America.

It has been reported that 567,715 people are homeless in America as of 2019, and of the total population within the country about 25% live in major cities; of that, 50% are homeless. That is a huge disparity especially in major cities, however, we hardly ever see any real advocates representing the homeless and spreading awareness, or at least not like Terence Lester, founder of Love Beyond Walls.

One day with his wife, Celia, Lester gathered old clothes and shoes from his home and filled two big trash bags worth of clothing. They both headed out to Auburn Ave in Atlanta, Ga, their home state, and called onto a woman walking by on the street. They asked her if she knew anyone who needed any clothing, the woman warmly answered, “Of course, I need some right now!” As she rummaged through the bags of clothing, she was excited to find a pair of old black shoes, “I CONTENT PROVIDED BY LOVE BEYOND WALLS

just prayed for a pair of shoes last night, and God answered.” It was then that the Lester’s came up with the concept of Love Beyond Walls, a non-profit organization dedicated to spreading awareness in efforts to incite empathy in society in the way they regard the homeless.

Lester’s dedication to this cause is so deep he took the time to actually be homeless himself for 72 hours in efforts to better understand the strife of being homeless and what they go through. He literally placed himself in their shoes and discovered so much that allows him to better serve the members of the community that fell into homelessness way more efficiently.

He understands what is absolutely essential for someone without any resources, understands the Overall, each individual has a importance of decent shoes being that on average homeless people story that needs to be heard, walk about 30-70 miles a week seeking resources and recognizes because at the end of the the hope and faith needed to survive day homelessness does not daily.One of the first things that discriminate against age, sex we as a society can do to help the homeless is restore in them or race; this is a real issue dignity. We need to acknowledge and see the homeless people that can affect anyone. because at the end of the day they are humans with backstories that varies. A common misconception surrounding the homeless is that they are living this way because of drugs or laziness. When in truth, it could be the complete opposite in a lot of cases. Someone can fall victim to homelessness after having been laid off or fired from a job, for 13 We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

Lester’s dedication to this cause is so deep he took the time to actually be homeless himself for 72 hours in efforts to better understand the strife of being homeless and what they go through.

LOCAL

example. Overall, each individual has a story that needs to be heard, because at the end of the day homelessness does not discriminate against age, sex or race; this is a real issue that can affect anyone.

For that reason, Love Beyond Walls has a Dignity Museum where people can go and educate themselves on homelessness in America. In this museum the public can grasp an understanding that will open their eyes to the harsh realities that is homelessness by providing them with an in-person experience to see, hear and feel what it is like to be homeless. It would allow for consumers to feel empathy and want to mobilize themselves with the cause and assist in providing more resources. Another platform Love Beyond Walls used to stir empathy in society is a book. ‘I See You’ is a written roadmap for people to truly understand the significance of acknowledging the dignity and humanity in someone going through a circumstance different from them.

Having a decorated academic record, Lester is pursuing his doctorate degree in Public Policy and Social Change with already having attained an Associates of Arts in Media Production, Bachelor Theology degree, and two master’s degree: one in school counseling and theological studies. He has dedicated his life to help fight for others and if his academic accolades do not convince you enough, then how about the fact that he has organized a march for poverty every two years since 2016. The march is 30 miles long in honor of the many miles that homeless people walk on a weekly basis for their survival. www.wearejerseyent.com

With that being said, for reasons beyond anyone’s control, the pandemic of 2020 halted any plans for this year’s March for Poverty (MAP20). An obstacle that Love Beyond Walls overcame by shifting their energy and initiating a different initiative: Love Sinks In. Love Sinks In is an addition to Love Beyond Walls that installs portable sinks throughout the city to provide sanitary access to homeless people.

These sinks are portable hand washing stations made for motorhomes which allows for them to be installed virtually anywhere. They will be sanitized daily and refilled biweekly. Sanitation is a basic human necessity and during the days of this

pandemic, it is essential to wash your hands frequently and properly to reduce the chances of contracting Coronavirus.

Partnerships were forged in efforts to make Love Sinks In a reality with sponsors such as Brawny, AbbVie Inc. and recording artist Lecrae.

These partnerships were forged after their aligned principles and the opportunity to use their platforms to spread the message of awareness as well as inform the people of available resources.

Jersey is honored to have the ability of also being positively impacted by Love Sinks In as they are also installing portable sinks in Jersey’s very own city of Paterson. When

At a time where so many are looking inward, shutting doors and not extending a helping hand; Paterson is coming together for the wellbeing of its people and it’s a beautiful sight to see for Lester.

To Lester, the sinks being installed in Paterson and any other city they partner with would be a representation of hope.

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LOCAL

asked why Paterson, Lester explained that they have had received such an outpour of love from Paterson and its citizens; the people there truly care about the wellbeing of its city and its people. At a time where so many are looking inward, shutting doors and not extending a helping hand; Paterson is coming together for the wellbeing of its people and it’s a beautiful sight to see for Lester.

To Lester, the sinks being installed in Paterson and any other city they partner with would be a representation of hope. It’s a message being sent to the homeless that they are seen, and efforts are being made to assist and take care of them; they are not alone.

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for change and a call to action.

The impact that these sinks have had is very positive and warm; it allows for someone suffering homelessness to restore in them peace and a sense of security knowing they now have the ability to wash their hands and further protect themselves during this pandemic.

Love Sinks In campaign has only begun, they are most definitely planning to partner with more cities and install more sinks. More than that Love Beyond Walls is looking to make their Dignity Museum virtual. The purpose of the virtual Dignity Museum is to spread awareness on a global scale. Foreseeing the next couple years, Love Beyond Walls will continue finding www.wearejerseyent.com

new, expansive and personal ways to serve advocate on behalf of and make change for those experiencing poverty in this country. They are actively working on ways to continue bringing sanitation to all because, the opportunity to stay healthy during the pandemic is a basic human right. The conversation needs to continue on a global scale to continue positively impacting society, hence the virtual Dignity Museum it can be accessed anywhere in the world.

You can be a volunteer to this cause or follow it directly through their website: lovebeyondwalls.org.

You can also follow them on Instagram: @lovebeyondwalls.

YOU MAY FIND LOVE BEYOND WALLS IN THE CITIES LISTED BELOW The Navajo Nation Birmingham, Alabama Tuscaloosa, Alabama San Bernardino, California Los Angeles, California Windsor, Connecticut Tampa, Florida Atlanta, Georgia Smyrna,Georgia Marietta, Georgia Augusta, Georgia Decatur, Georgia Chicago, Illinois New Orleans, Louisiana Baltimore, Maryland

Holyoke, Massachusetts Detroit, Michigan Harper Woods, Michigan St. Louis, Missouri Newark, New Jersey Paterson, New Jersey New York, New York Queens, New York Bronx, New York Graham, North Carolina Greensboro, North Carolina Portland, Oregon Salem, Oregon Columbus, Ohio York, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Greenville, South Carolina Austin, Texas Dallas, Texas Fort Worth, Texas Ogden, Utah Washington, D.C. Seattle, Washington Tacoma, Washington Memphis, Tennessee

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We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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SMALL SMALL BUSINESS BUSINESS

spiritfavs

DECOR,

WRITTEN BY BEE PAPINO

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LLC Where Art Meets Professionalism

www.wearejerseyent.com

meet the ceo

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EO of SpiritFavs Decor, LLC, Iyeshia C, has always had a creative eye and vivid imagination dating as far back as elementary school.

Motivated and passionate for the art ,she gravitated towards coloring, drawing and creating. Eight years ago, after envisioning and capturing her own depiction of a realistic wonderland in her home for the winter holiday season,Iyeshia took the leap to indulge in her self-taught skills and began her vision. Everything began to click for her as she decided to create her own decorating business and was divinely guided along her journey. The positive feedback only drove her further into her passion to see what else she was capable of creating.

Despite the discouragement of being locked down after starting as a new business officially, Iyesha was driven to find a way to make a way. As opportunities began to pour in, the blessings did as well. Expanding to birthday driveby’s, set staging for photoshoots, and parades, SpiritFavs Decor, LLC is making a buzz across the state for helping clients during these uncertain times. She is currently running a special on holiday decorating services as well as she continues her journey to success.

You can reach Iyeshia at the following: Instagram @ mzmorning_glory FB @ SpiritFavs Decor, LLC www.spiritfavsdecor.com

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piritFav Decor LLC is an interior and exterior design service for discerning, quality-conscious clients that seek assistance in their Primary products available through design choices for their primary residences, vacation homes, and SpiritFav Interiors and exterior decors businesses. Their business experience offers personal attention through the design, and implementation process. Thus, providing design resources include: • Windows displays and products to their clients through special purchases of windows display, • Storefronts and entryways fabric, and aesthetics accessories. The total experience is provided • Table display in a way to inform, inspire, and assist people through the process of • Aesthetic designs and themes transforming their home or business environment to become a unique and • Residential personalized expression of themselves and add to their enjoyment of that

interior space thereby creating an inner sense of fulfillment.

They stand out in what they do as a company. Looking at a broader picture, they believe in giving our customers the luxury of picking their design amongst several available alternatives;

Be true to who you are and what you love to do.

Know that you were gifted by The Most High and no man/woman’s gift is greater than yours!

We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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SMALL BUSINESS

ta'shana leverette

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any women suffer in silence, even more prefer to hold on to their feelings and “figure it out” so as to not be a burden to anyone else. All this does is further weaken the mental health of a woman. This is more often seen in the African American community; a woman can be in need of professional help but would never seek it. This is due to the fear of rejection, disapproval, exclusion and discrimination from society. The stigma that surrounds mental health haunts African American women and prevents them from seeking the professional help that they may need in that time.

If someone is in need of professional help, then why is it taboo to seek it? More often than not, women aren’t encouraged to seek the professional help they may need but more than that they are also told that their behavior or feeling is irrational. Founder of FixMyCrownQueen, Ta’Shana Leverette, is blazing a path in creating a safe and comfortable space for women to gather and be able to speak freely.

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SMALL BUSINESS Inspired and motivated by her own personal experience and battle with depression, Ta’Shana is opening up and allowing herself to be vulnerable to show that it is okay to speak on it. Ta’Shana at one point had fallen into depression and didn’t exactly know what to do. She would try to do as many other women did, “figure it out” by driving to clear her head. While still an effective method to clear one’s head, she was still accompanied to her home with the depression that she couldn’t shake off.

When she realized it wasn’t something that can she run away from she finally reached out to her husband and mother.

Having a strong support system is all the difference when battling depression and Ta’Shana is able to testify to that being that her support system helped carry her through a difficult time. With that being said, she recognized the importance of having someone to just simply listen and empathize with 24

“With everything that is going on in the world with African Americans, we as women need to be heard and uplifted!”

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her as well as the importance of reaching out which is why FixMyCrownQueen was conceived.

FixMyCrownQueen is a space to encourage and uplift Black Queens of all shades. Women of all shades are invited to join and work to uplift one another. The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman and creating a space where women of all shades can come together and confide in one another would lessen the burden that weighs on their shoulders.

She built a company that strengthens, not only the confidence in women, but also the interpersonal relationship between women in the African American

community.

One thing Ta’Shana also noticed was that women are too quick to judge one another, when in reality we all go through something at some point in life. We never really know what the person next to us is going through so how is it that we can be so quick to judge rather than help? By women gathering they can purge any negative energy and leave feeling listened to, empathized with and understood; something so crucial during a time where Black Queens were too often found to be the victims of cruelty.

Ta’Shana’s vision for FixMyCrownQueen is to be even more expansive and reach Black Queens all over the country with her very own talk show introducing topics of mental health and discussing healthy coping mechanisms. In doing so, she will not only be helping her community in Jersey, but her community nationally.

She wants to be able to reach women of all shades and let them know that they are not alone, they never will be either. She is currently studying Psychology to eventually expand her services and become a family and marriage counselor and help people to a higher capacity.

As a mother of two, wife, and executive at record label Jump Out The Frame where she manages 4 artists (Majey, Cybkelo, K_ROC_ DA_iLLEST and CR_908) all while in school studying psychology pursuing her masters and starting her business, Ta’Shana has found the effecting coping mechanisms that work for her and was able to keep pushing and continue her journey of success. Ta’Shana is definitely someone to reach out to when in need of any help and you can do so by following her on Instagram: @fixmycrownqueen or @itz_frecklez13.

We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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OUT OF STATE

SASHA MERCEDES

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WRITTEN BY AMY LOTHIAN

elfless compassion is the driving force behind everything that is Sasha Mercedes’.

As a mother, author, professional counselor, and motivational speaker, her passion and compassion are at the center of her mission to inspire and motivate. While she wears many hats, every business that Sasha Mercedes’ has headed is grounded in love, respect, and helping others.

As a licensed professional counselor, she has built a platform dedicated to helping others through difficult times in the forms of personal and family counseling, working with organizations in her native state of Alabama, and creating her own non-profit organizations dedicated to the cause.

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In an effort to inspire others, Sasha Mercedes shares her story in her book “It’s a Losing Battle, But I Won”. She also operates under Sasha Mercedes, LLC, the self-titled brand where she represents the face of mental health counseling as an author and motivational speaker.

By speaking openly about her own story and offering opportunities for counseling she aims to support underserved communities with her professional expertise and sound advice.

Along her journey, www.wearejerseyent.com

Sasha Mercedes has accomplished many successes both personally and professionally. As a counselor, she’s been able to open her own private practice, Inside and Out Consulting which provides mental health counseling that focuses on trauma, and relationships within families and the LGBT community.

Her other non profit, Sisters 2nd Chance provides support for women and children who may be in difficult situations by fortifying a strong sisterhood that promotes comradeship and confidentiality.

Sasha Mercedes continues to use her platforms

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to be a source of deep, personal support as co-host of the radio talk show, “Klymax Sessions” which airs on Power 108.9 in Atlanta. To her audience she provides anecdotes and advice on getting through some of life’s toughest moments and as she puts it, “my audience is anyone that is ready to receive the talent, knowledge, gifts, and love I have to offer. People who need help finding peace, mental health, trauma therapy, counseling, coaching, love, and motivation.”

To stay grounded she says, “I have to remind myself that I am enough and I am capable.” Currently pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Philosophy of Psychology with a focus on General Psychology, her goal is to continue expanding as a National Certified Counselor, and to educate and inspire more people along the way. “The message that I want people to gain,” she says, “is to never give up just because they might feel they have ran into a brick wall, just slowly remove every brick to get to the other side of the pain, by winning and continuing to push on.”

Sasha Mercedes is not only a careerminded businesswoman and educated entrepreneur, she is a compassionate one who cares about her clients and her community.

Learn more about Sasha Mercedes, LLC., Inside and Out Consulting, Sister’s 2nd Chance and for resources and more visit www.sashamercedes.org.

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SASHA MERCEDES

We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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FEATURED ARTIST

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DSD MAJOR

BY MARVIN RYLES

n a world full of trouble and uncertainty, it’s always a positive look to be connected to the art realm. Hiphop is more than just beats and rhymes. It’s a deeply rooted form of expression that invites everyone to join in on the experience.

DSD Major is a strong player within the cherished art form of Hiphop. Born and raised in Brooklyn, DSD is an artist that uses rap as his vessel towards inner truth and exudes more of an aggressive poetry style, rather than the rough conventional style New Yorkers are known for. “You see I’m different cuz’ I’m distant. But I’ve been on my grind and I gotta remain consistent. I said that I’m gon’ make it, I’m honoring that commitment.

Can’t you tell a n*gga focused, I’m handling all my business.” Outside of rap, you can also find DSD as one-half of 22 Stone Productions “Whoz Man’s is Dis” Podcast alongside his CoHost JJ, where they connect with other like minded artists from within the industry.

When asked about his goals from now to the end of 2021 he replied, “I honestly just want to grind my way to the cover of XXL or at least be one of the new featured artists. I want my name and music to resonate with people, just to reassure them that they can make it through anything”. He went on further to say that HipHop is a part of his healing process, a type of spiritual medicine, if you will. It has been by his side for years and has saved him from a lot of hardships throughout his life. It’s always an honor to hear rappers speak so highly of something that literally started in the trenches of the Bronx, and has now evolved into a pioneering force for the entire planet.

His most recent visuals for “Stay Trippin” is a powerful display of bars and bass-heavy beats that 30

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connect with both the lyric listener and vibe seeker. DSD implements a lot of emphasis into the art of flow, and consciously puts forth the illest rhyme patterns and syllables into his music. His upcoming project entitled “Tunnel Vision� will be a further extension of his creative mind, and without a doubt will be a project worth looking out for.

When all is said and done, DSD Major is both a classic rhyme sayer and a highly

versatile artists right out the gate. He has the ability to be both the representation and implementation of dope artistic concepts.

Whether he is rhyming in the booth or creating pathways for other artists to shine, DSD is an authentic piece of the hiphop puzzle. Definitely stay tuned for more releases, because best believe, the journey has just begun.

We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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FEATURED ARTIST

SOS OG

BY MELISSA MALOON

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mooth voiced SOS OG just dropped an anticipated EP, “She Wanted To Love A Rockstar” with hits like DIVA and S.W.T.L.A.R. His relatable lyrics and smooth voice over a mellow beat all polished with a clean production is sure to be a head bopper. New Jersey native SOS OG is putting on for Jersey with his dedication to music and designing.

SOS OG, an acronym for Stack or Starve Original, sets out to become legendary through his music and clothing. Using his platform to represent his home state of Jersey, he got into music during his high school days, playing around making remixes to songs by Bobby Shmurda. After 2 years of no longer playing with music,

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his brother sent him a song late at night that left him surprised, shortly after he returned to the studio with his brother.

When in the studio he draws inspiration from life experiences.

A lot of it depends on his mood and his energy, if there are good vibes then he is able to put out good music. It will always be relatable too, he aims to make music that people can relate to and have fun with such as his latest release “She Wanted To Love A Rockstar” which is a 6 track EP all about different experiences with women. In this EP we can also hear some of his influences such as Juice Wrld and Wiz Khalifa – the first artist SOS OG had tapped into that really made him start making music. Overall, he listens to many different artists that feed into him. www.wearejerseyent.com

Something SOS OG enjoys maybe slightly more than music? Fashion. Since a kid SOS OG has been drawing his own original designs on his clothes and shoes of which he always made fun of. Now he owns his own clothing line SOS Wave, and those same people that made fun of him are now the first ones to ask for a design. He inspires himself when designing because he is comfortable in his confidence to try different things and designs that most people would shy away from. Aspiring for his original clothing designs to be timeless and a powerhouse in fashion like Luis Vuitton and Fenty, SOS Wave is here to stay and make waves all over.

Aside from aspiring to own a powerhouse clothing line, he also hopes his music becomes timeless. SOS OG doesn’t want the spotlight for the simple fact that the

spotlight fades and finds other new hot talent at that moment, he wants to be a staple in music and a figure in society.

Aspiring to be an influential artist he hopes that his supporters are able to grasp his message of individuality. He hopes that everyone who listens to him can feel a little freer to be different and not follow the crowd or trend.

We can expect to hear more from SOS OG as he is working on a collaboration with Kannon on an album titled “SOS General” which is expected to release in December. In between, he will be releasing singles “to keep everyone on their toes,” such as Dreams.

Future collaborations he aspires for are with artists like Brandy, Jhene Aiko, Wiz Khalifa, Young Thug, and 6lack.

You can follow SOS OG’s music and clothing designs on Instagram: @ladieslovemyles She Wanted To Love A Rockstar is now available on most platforms!

Apple Music, Youtube, Spotify and Soundcloud

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FEATURED ARTIST

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JUGOPOTTER

JUICE POTTER

JUICE POTTER J

BY MELISSA MALOON

uice Potter, a wizard none the less and an evil genius to say the least who’s magic lies in making music and being a jack of all trades. Concentrating in showing his magic through music, Juice Potter also has several other titles under his belt such as designer, writer, consultant, entertainer, in sum an entrepreneur all around.

Aspiring to be someone who can be a positive influence on many through artistic and creative means, Juice Potter is setting the bar for artistic expression.

Having started expressing himself at a young age, Juice Potter first started finding himself in creativity when it came to clothing. As a middle school student, he would always draw designs with markers onto his jeans, Vans and other pieces of clothing. While he was ridiculed then for having such different designs his peers now ask in anticipation for the next clothing piece that he will release under his fashion brand Huskies Clothing.

Huskies Clothing represents a brand of loyalty inspired by the loyalty a dog displays to man, after all a dog is a man’s best friend.

After having been expelled from school, Juice Potter understood he had to find something that interested him. He’s never been one to shy from music being that music is in his family and rapping freestyles is what they did for fun. He would even manage musician friends of his and set up interviews for them to gain more exposure; but, it wasn’t until his cousin told him that if he wanted to keep hanging out in the studio then he was going to have to start recording. It was then that he became a recording artist and began taking himself more seriously with music and fashion designing.

Having such a unique name comes with a unique story behind it, the moniker Juice Potter came about in two separate occasions. He was invited to a party where they asked him to bring Jungle Juice and he had bought some of the strongest Jungle Juice they had ever tried and so much of it that they’ve

been calling him Juice ever since. Potter came about when he wore glasses that looked like Harry Potter’s round gold frames, that is when his cousin made fun of him and called him Potter. Although, to him it wasn’t offensive because he was actually a Harry Potter fan and so he enjoyed the remark and so much so that it became his moniker.

Today, Juice Potter uses his platform to build up those around him, something that motivated him since a kid. Since before middle school, Juice Potter had the mentality that he wanted to be able to take care of his family by cultivating his own cash flow and taking advantage of any opportunity that allows him to work independently. He applauds those who work a job and truly enjoys it but also challenges them to find a passion outside of the regular 9-5 job they can monetize off of. It is an entirely different feeling having to work for someone in a corporation to then having your own company, working on your own time and for yourself, it is far more rewarding.

He especially encourages people within his team, friends, and family to chase something more in life that can provide financial freedom. He promotes working to build your own establishments and independence so that one can be free financially.

The influences who inspires him and further cements this mentality are some of the greats such as Jay Z, 50 Cent, Will Smith, and Master P, especially when it comes to the way they used their platform to uplift their communities and families. Those who

"Special thank you and shout out to the gang, myself for working so hard ,

and to God because without Him nothing is possible"

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JUICE POTTER have built the blueprint for financial independence and freedom.

Having this mentality for so long and having played football for some time, Juice Potter has become a leader amongst his community and family since before music. He has always had eyes on him being that he was a football player for his school, there have even been times when kids come up to him to let him know the inspiration they felt watching him play. It is something that has translated to music and has allowed for him to feel good understanding that he can be a positive impact for not only kids but everyone who is able to listen to him and hear his message.

His anticipated 9 track album “Project Potter” was released October 21st with a bonus track FNF (Fly N**** Freestyle). It is filled with music that you can vibe out to on a night out, it can set the tone for a night of festivities with bops like “Sauce Pt. 2” which makes you feel confident in stepping out and being seen in your best clothes. We get to see a collaboration with Gleesh EBE in “Count Up” another song off the album that has been popular for the upbeat rhythm and catchy hook. The album then transitions from upbeat bops to an inspirational speech about chasing your dreams and dedicating yourself to a project then putting it out there with Talk is Cheap, setting himself apart from the typical artist he raps about the sacrifices that it takes to get to where it is and needing determination and grit to get there over a head bopping beat. It is then followed up with music for the ladies to feel confident and love themselves by hyping up women and letting them know they possess beauty and should flaunt it unapologetically in “P.H.A.T.” and then its wrapped up with bonus track “FNF” a freestyle filled with clever word play over a light uppity beat.

You can hear all these tracks and then some from “Project Potter” on all platforms, Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Tidal and Amazon. As many would say “Juice Potter is good for the ears and good for the eyes,” so check him out on Instagram too at @jugopotter.

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REGGIE COUZ @REGGIECOUZ

REGGIE COUZ

BY MELISSA MALOON

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WHO IS REGGIE COUZ?

hen it comes to transitioning and rebranding Reggie Couz is cultivating his own lane by being strategic and always being true to his first passion: music.

East Orange, New Jersey native Reggie Couz was first discovered during the days of Vine, a then popular 6 second video app, where he became known for comedic sketches with characters such as Holy Tony, Mr. Johnson, Dirty Mercy, Pastor Riley and his most famous dad character. What most probably don’t know is that each character is a musical alter ego where Reggie Couz allows himself to share his musical talents because before anything, he is a musician, one that just so happens to be funny.

Dating back to 2013, Reggie had finished his first semester at the University of Arts in Philedelphia, PA when he noticed someone on Instagram was promoting their Vine account. It was then that his curiosity was piqued because what can you possibly do or say in a 6 second video? He realized the potential in Vine when he seen how Eric Dunn was moving on the app and how he set up a meet up for his followers.

To Reggie’s surprise, about 1,500 people showed up to the first ever Vine meet up and it was then that he seen the exposure and

reach Vine has and started using it himself.

When he started making Vine videos his “Black Titantic Video” is the first of many that went viral.

However, it was so new for him that he did not know how to capitalize off this video even though it was being replayed in almost every platform imaginable: Vine, Instagram, YouTube, WorldStarHipHop, Facebook, Twitter, you get the idea. That was only the beginning for Reggie, being that he was strategic in using what worked for him to create a fan base and a name for himself so

that when he was ready to completely branch off to music he already has supporters who supported him for his actual talent.

He took microcontent and made it into something that displayed him and his authentic sounds and music. For this reason, one of his favorite characters was Mr. Johnson. He was able to make his voice the instrument for Mr. Johnson skits and spent hours on creating a choir sound with his voice, he enjoyed making the different harmonies for it.

While other people who put out content used each

“In Jersey, when we say we gunna do something you KNOW it’s locked in!”

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COVER FEATURE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHELLY FERRELL STYLED BY AZARI'EL SUDAN

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other to combine and optimize their following and views; Reggie built his following on his own by showcasing raw and natural talent which was always the focus behind every comedic sketch.

In that way he was able to authentically create a following that genuinely enjoyed his talents in music.

When it comes to creative processes and thinking of new things to put, Reggie does a great job of observing everyday things that most people wouldn’t pay attention to but can relate to subconsciously.

He emphasizes trying different things and allowing time and space to find yourself in your creations. You will never know if something works unless you try it out, so

with that same mentality Reggie tries different characters, sounds, concepts anything that will keep him in a growing state of mind. If at that moment he can’t think of anything and comes to a creative block, he doesn’t force or push it; he simply focuses on something else or would use the day to meditate. When in the business of creativity and entertainment, you should always aspire to be multifaceted and explore different areas and this is something that Reggie excels at, especially now in his transition to music.

Music has always been a part of Reggie’s life.

He used his alter egos to show his talents by using his own vocals, producing his own beats, writing his own lyrics. However, he hasn’t taken it as serious

“Stepping out of your lane and your comfort zone is a must, stay in the creative lane.”

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COVER FEATURE as becoming a recording artist until last year, 2019. Music was always Reggie’s first choice when it comes to expressing himself, which is why he can have more complete control of his music, “I can be even more wild with music because I can take it as far as I want,” he would have all the control and ability to take the music in every which way. Something that has been seen in his singles and latest project release “Just Couz”.

Reggie Couz is diverse in his sound where you can’t pin him to any one genre or category. He shows exceptional vocal skills in “Romance” over a melodic, yet upbeat rhythm that makes your body whine slow and sensually. He shows his fun side in “Baybee”

where his melodic voice blends perfectly with the afrobeat, his accent shows his Caribbean roots and will have you dancing without even realizing it. We can also see this fun Caribbean, afrobeat side of him in “All the Time” both accompanied with visuals that are smooth and aesthetic.

As a man who primarily works on his craft alone, there a few collaborations he is hoping would come about. He would like to work with artists like Travis Scott, his production abilities are A1 superb, Jacob Latimore, his versatility in music and acting draws Reggie to him as well as Keke Palmer, her versatility in music, acting, then releasing social media skits like “Turnt up with the Taylors” is inspiring. Lastly but certainly

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not least, Eric Bellinger he aspires to feature him one of his songs soon, so be on the lookout for that!

comedians and musicians alike: “Always make time for your mental health.”

He also advices that each project should come few and In all that he does and all the far between, if it’s the right projects that he is involved content. One shouldn’t try to in, he always prioritizes his drop content daily or weekly mental and physical health. just to stay relevant. If you The importance of this can then that’s great but the dawned on him when he toll that it takes on your body realized the impact he was and on your mental health; making on peoples’ lives. pressuring yourself to create People have even reached that much content and for out to him to let him know them to all be fresh ideas will that his videos and music is slow you down in the long what carried them in their run. Its best to work smart depression and turned them and not hard in that and away from acts/thoughts focus on putting out quality of suicide. It is an immense content as opposed to a high pressure knowing that this quantity that lacks substance. is the type of influence and

What keeps Reggie impact he has on people; motivated is seeing other however, he understands that people’s ideas come to life. he can’t let his supporters Whether it be with music, down in that way and wants a skit, a movie, podcast, to continue being a positive anything so long as it started influence in peoples’ lives. as an idea and turned into

He further cements a whole production. That is this by imparting advice why his peers inspire him to aspiring social media and how they also try to

transition from being an influencer to be an A list celebrity. It requires so much time and effort, it is a long journey, but they have to constantly remind each other that it will get done and they will get there. This is the attitude of someone who understands that its not just one person who can achieve and succeed so much on their own. He understands that it takes a team, especially when it comes to music.

Reggie’s hard work is turned to fruition when he can see the positive impact he has made and when he gets recognized for his hard work on prestigious platforms such as Vouge, The Source and Complex to name a few. He remains humble through it all and knows that it is great to be celebrated but his work isn’t done and has so much more to achieve.

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FEATURED ARTIST

YOUNG

RALLO

WRITTEN BY AMY LOTHIAN

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n innate gravitation towards music has been a part of Robbie Burke way before he was Young Rallo. Thanks to his musician parents, Rallo’s musical development started earlier than most. At just 5 years old he had his first experience in a recording studio and music became a lifelong passion.

From rapping to writing, the Paterson native has no shortage of skills & abilities including playing several instruments, and mixing and mastering his own music. Following some personal setbacks, Young Rallo really began to take music seriously in his late teens and has since made a name for himself as an artist by performing, networking and remaining consistent and constantly educating himself and soaking up knowledge.

His earliest songs appeared online in 2015, but the song that got everyone’s attention

was "Soda” featuring Oskama Esteban, CEO of Ziplocgang.

The motivational trap record quickly gained popularity, garnering over 1million streams on Soundcloud within weeks of its release and the momentum of Young Rallo moved quickly from there. Shortly after “Soda”’s release, the young rapper was presented with the opportunity of a lifetime in the form of a publishing contract with Bentley Records. Under the label he released several more singles which were welcomed with the same excitement and enthusiasm.

In 2017, Young Rallo released the much welcomed tracks “Right Back” featuring Ruga and “On My Block” and in June 2018 his debuted his mixtape, Trap Season was released on all platforms. With a music style that varies from drill, to trap mixed with melodic sounds, Young Rallo's approach shifts from song to song, a

feature of his well-rounded musical background and proof of him perfecting and diversifying his craft.

Currently in school to continue his music education, Young Rallo keeps himself grounded through music and his business/clothing line Ransom apparel and his label Young Militant Soldiers.

“Never underestimate yourself. Know your value, and keep working,” is the simple but genuine advice Young Rallo gives to others. “When people really notice you for what you do...It gives you motivation to keep going...my message is to never give up on your dreams.”

His latest release "Glow up" is taking over Spotify with over 10K streams and counting. Listen to Young Rallo on all streaming platforms, Instagram: @young_ rallo and Twitter: @KynggRallo.

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PRODUCER

JFLOW JFLOW326 WRITTEN BY BEE PAPINO

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The Musical MasterCraft New EP "Lighta" dropping on November 27th, 2020

any claim to be masters in the art of music but amongst musicians, there are legends whose lyrical pulse reckons with the creative flow. Among such category of upcoming New Jersey legends is Joe Flvco, better known as JFlow. Born in New York, however, his footprints went from Ridgefield Park, across North Jersey. He built his foundation from always uniting talented artists to bring together a catchy hook, dope verses with quality lyrics, a fire beat and great cohesively flow, throughout the community.

He has always been family, work, and the dream no shortage of listeners out a strong believer in keeping with his peers, JFlow shows there. This unending tension the seasoned lyrical value he has what it takes to lead between hit list and upcoming on his records, which keeps the pack. After recently losing musical quality has been his influence and sound his brother, JFlow has turned narrowed as JFlow tries to strong every release. After his pain into motivation as be the glue between the his previous hit single "Bring he continued to strive for his masterminds he works with It Back" featuring Fuego, Jay goals and uses the memories and the growing musical Po and Post, JFlow dove to empower his journey. JFlow audience. back into his creative bag and is not letting up anytime soon.

His highly anticipated sharpened his skills.

While lyrical features release is described to us in

JFlow has a consistent are necessary, JFlow knows our one on one interview to momentum despite any that maintaining the right have a compelling mixture of obstacle that comes his way flow balanced with exposure creative wit and lyrical vibes, in his career and personal life. cannot be substituted. With so which is something listeners While balancing many upcoming artists fighting always desire in the music for the front stage, new scene. We suggest that you releases are countless, with keep an eye out for Lighta each track dished out, there's coming soon!

JFlow will be releasing Lighta officially on November 27, 2020 on all digital streaming platforms.

The recent loss of his brother made the fire burning within for JFlow's bigger purpose even bigger. As he practices gratitude, he continues to push forward toward his goals as he dedicates his next EP to him in memory.

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DISCOVER NEW MUSIC

FOLLOW OUR PLAYLIST We Are Jersey Magazine: November 2020

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THIS NEW FEMALE ARTIST IS BREAKING A MOLD Keep your eyes on Kärma

Listen here // https://linktr.ee/therealkarma_

With a powerful yet serenading voice, Kärma is someone you can’t get tired of hearing. Known for wearing many hats and captivating her audience with her voice, Kärma displays the true definition of ‘a force to be reckoned with’ that has complexity that cannot be categorized. Introducing THREE, her 5th project to date, Kärma tells a story of transition; love, loss, and sex.

In Kärma’s new single & video Break Off debuting September 25th, 2020 at 6PM, Kärma embraces the beauty and essence of being a powerful black woman of multiple facets. Embodying her elegance, attitude and sexiness in her dreamy yet intimate visual she allures the viewers alongside her soothing vocals and resonating lyrics. The song premieres on her new EP numerically titled, THREE which also debuts at 12AM on September 25th. Kärma gives us a twist of eloquence of R&B and a small spoon full taste of hip hop in her new single.

You just have to hear it for yourself, tune in.

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