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[MUSIC] JOHARI NOELLE: THE CHASE CONTINUES

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Meet Johari Noelle! This beautiful, amazingly talented young lady has been part of the focus of Kelly Rowland's new docuseries, Chasing Destiny. Faced with the idea of putting together a girl group, or better yet, a supergroup, who would would not only duplicate the success of Destiny's Child, but take music to the next level. Johari was one of many young ladies who went after the opportunity, and ultimately one of close to 20 girls who were selected to compete at being selected to be a part of Rowland's new group. Unquestionably, Johari brought her A-game on this series, aiming to solidify her spot in what's geared to be one of music's biggest groups yet. Four episodes in, much to everyone's surprise, Johari was eliminated. The thing here, though, is it had nothing to do with talent, nor a lack thereof. Truth is, her talent is endless, much like everyone else who was vying for a role in Rowland's supergroup. Her star has definitely been bright throughout her time there, and the fact that she made it to that point was solid proof. 

 

Now, with that experience being behind her, Johari has a lot planned and in the works with her career. We had an opportunity to talk about her experience on the show and the projects she has coming up soon. For her, the chase continues.

Check out her story HERE! 

 

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[THE STAGE] Philly Weeden: Destiny Fulfilled

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In just a couple short weeks, Cleveland's own Philly Weeden will take the city by storm; yet again, with his newest stage play, SOULmate?! Starring accomplished actress Taral Hicks, SOULmate? aims to teach today's generation how to put in the work required to maintain lasting relationships. Already building quite the buzz, SOULmate? is geared to be a huge success when it hits the stage at the Cleveland Playhouse November 14, 2015! We were granted the amazing opportunity of talking with Playwright Philly Weeden about the play, it's storyline, what fans can expect, and all else he has brewing for the future. His own story is yet another classic case of one's own destiny being fulfilled! 

 

Philly Weeden: Destiny Fulfilled | Philly Weeden | Taral Hicks | Justin Fraley | Archie Berwick | Tiffany Allison

 

Everything happens in due time, and what’s meant to be will surely be. We hear it all the time, but talking to Cleveland’s own Philly Weeden, that has never been more true than now. Philipe, otherwise known to the world as Philly, has come a long way, with many titles to his name. He’s been a semi-professional football player, a model, designer, and author. Much of the world knows him most for his work on the stage as a Playwright, and Screen Writer. Over the past few years, he has entertained thousands at a time with his hilarious, soul-stirring stage plays, selling out theater after theater along the way. His most recent stage play, If You Knew Better You’d Do Better, ultimately became a full length movie, which recently screened at the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival. 

 

Not bad, especially for someone who started with no experience is writing, let alone produce an entire stage play or movie. He still managed to do it, and it al became an instant success. His story is remarkable to say the least, and will inspire anyone looking to pursue their dreams in life, regardless if they are dreams of entertainment or otherwise. His story is one of perseverance. When the doors were seemingly shut in his face, he went through another door. When someone told him no, he kept going until another said yes, and that tenacity has paid off ten-fold. He has truly fulfilled his destiny, and through his brilliance, he's helping a number of others fulfill their own. 

 

For as long as we’ve wanted to catch up with Philly, timing just never allowed it to happen, that is until now. Philly sits down and gives us the full rundown of his new stage play which hits the stage of the Playhouse Square in less than two weeks, and stars the amazing and accomplished Taral Hicks, who many will remember from her roles in Belly, Bronx Tale, and more recently Tyler Perry’s Aunt Bam’s Place. Take a moment to check out the exclusive below!

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It's such an honor to connect with you man. Obviously, being here in the city, I’ve been able to witness your movement and what you’ve had going on. We’ve been wanting to connect with you for so long, and with your last play, timing was off, but it’s a huge honor. 

 

Philly Weeden: I’m equally honored to be able to participate with the movement that you have going. Every time you’ve posted anything, it’s been great. I’m honored as well. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: First and foremost, talk to me about the story behind the upcoming stage play, SOULmate?

 

Philly Weeden: SOULmate is a modern day love story. It has it’s twists and turns, but I wanted to show a relationship in today’s society with old school tradition. Mixing the old with the new. I believe that back in the day, our grandparents made that era. Whatever happened, they made it work. Nowadays, it’s so easy to give up. I wanted to show our generation that it is possible. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I agree with that wholeheartedly. I look, even at my grandparents, and how long they were together and the struggles they had. People today would divorce at the snap of the finger. 

 

Philly Weeden: Definitely. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: What should be the ultimate take away for those who come out to see the show?

 

Philly Weeden: The take away would be an experience, and a chance to witness a relationship that stands the test of time. I want you to think of how to challenge your mate to do this. It takes a team effort, but it is also you dealing with yourself? Asking yourself can you deal with it, or can you give this person what is needed for you to get it back. Relationships are reciprocal, and if not, there are things that need to be addressed. If you take cheating out of a relationship, 90% will make it. Again, I want to provide, not a fairytale, but an example to our generation because the same people on the stage area e part of our generation. You’ll be able to put yourself in those footprints. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Things are growing tremendously for you. It’s amazing how many people I know who ask if I’m going to your plays. A friend of mine won tickets to your last play. There’s ton of people who are sitting and waiting for you to come out with something new. People are also excited about the fact that you have Taral Hicks. Surely, people know her from Belly and Bronx Tale. Was she always in your mind?

 

Philly Weeden: When I wrote the story, I knew it was time for me to start building in terms of national talent. I’m all for locals, but it’s time for the brand to excel. To do so, you have to have national attention, which takes national talent. I just sit back and watch the scene. I don’t do too much or say too much. To be honest, I didn’t realize she was “the” Taral Hicks initially. I was watching Aunt Bam’s play by Tyler Perry, and Taral is the lead in it. I was watching and thinking about how she could sing, act, and everything. As the credits rolled, I saw her name, and googled her. I knew she would be a perfect fit. I kept researching, and realized who she was. I was like “Kisha”! Kisha was dark, but Taral is not dark, so at first, I thought it wasn’t her. But she was in Bronx Tale, Where Heart Lie, and just the single that she did. She was top 10 on Billboard. I was a little hesitant to reach out to her, but once I did, she responded right back. As far as everyone else, Justin is my dude. I’m in love with his work ethic. I believe he needs this exposure. He’s someone I can see when I’m watching television. He’s someone I can see myself buying tickets for and watching him come on stage. With him, I try to help him to get that exposure. Whatever platform I have, I just want to elevate him to the next level. He’s been with me since 2012. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I appreciate you mentioning him. I think it’s extremely important for people to know about the supporting cast. Everyone does an awesome job. It’s almost like Tyler Perry’s productions. He picks people from all walks, but no matter what, they act their asses off. On shows like The Haves and The Have Nots, or If Loving You is Wrong, there’s not one person who acts poorly. I think you’re trailblazing in that same sense. You have Justin, and you have Tiffany and Archie, and so many others who have been with you. I think it’s good that everyone knows because it says a lot that you come up together and it’s not just about you. 

 

Philly Weeden: Definitely. I’m a little cat. If you continue to grind, I grind with you. I’m grinding regardless. I want us all to look back one day and say look at what we did. My first time at the Playhouse Square was a triumph in itself. When I first sat down to start producing stage plays, I called them and they gave me the whole rundown, and it discouraged me. When you sit down and have a dream, they are the first that come to mind in terms of venues. Not even thinking of the particulars, I was just thinking of a big dream. When I called, they pretty much told me no. I fell back for maybe a week (laughing), then realized I needed to start somewhere. I started working the college scene and auditoriums there. When I called back two years later, they knew who I was. Going for the first time was an amazing journey. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That ties into my next question which you've pretty much answered. It was how many times people had told you no. It’s good, not only for the general people reading this, but the younger people as well. You’re up front about being discouraged, which is good and healing for others. You still kept going. So how did you get the Playhouse Square to truly recognize? Coming from a journalistic standpoint, and that of a publisher, I know how they operate, and venues like theirs in general. You get a lot of people in general who do not understand your movement. I look at my own story of freelancing, and publishing, all the no’s I heard, and how many people told me the magazine was a bad idea. I’ve been in a position where I walked away from a career to start over with the magazine. It's amazing that you managed to stay lifted, keep moving, and ultimately get them on board. What did you feel like you really wanted to accomplish this time around with your new play?

 

Philly Weeden: There’s always the pressure of trying to outdo your last. With each production, I want to show my audience growth, whether it’s in my writing, or the sets, or the production itself. With SoulMate, this is monumental because we have national talent. Once you get to that level, you’re able to be a National playwright. I never professed wanting to do that because I want to stay here and break ground here. I wanted to get the city behind me. Believe it or not, there are people here who do not know me, or my work. I wanted to be able to stay here and make this the home for real so people know who I am. Then I would branch out to tour. I have a rotating set now. National Playwrights are doing that. I had two keys before, not I’ve added guitars and drums. With each production I want to grow. Whether I add lights, or music, or anything, I love the ability to show the audience the experience.

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think we come from the same school of thought, even with you wanting to stay here and do it. Even with us, I’ve looked at opportunities to relocate to places where there’s more entertainment, but Cleveland needs you and us. 

 

Philly Weeden: Of course. It’s easier to write, and cover stories when there’s a lot going on. Here, it’s not that much going on. You have to find somebody and see what’s going on, or see how can you do this. When you’re around stars, they live in Atlanta and Los Angeles. There’s news every second of the day. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: But the more we have people like you that want to stay here and do it, the bigger Cleveland will get. Eventually, you’ll see the stars are here. 

 

Philly Weeden: I have told people, when I received the Dawson Award, I spoke and said why not be the person who attracts people to your city. Everybody gets excited about the stars going to Columbus, or New York. Why not be the person that is the attraction to your city. That’s where I’m at. I told myself, if I get 5,000 faithful people behind me, I’m cool. It’s 5,000 people on one side of town. I’ll know that when I can be at the Palace, or the State Theater. That’s how I'll know it’s time to go. I believe in growth and maturity. I started at CSU and they have 500 seats. Thank God it was selling out. People were saying I needed to go somewhere else. I said no, let me do a couple more here so I can feel like I’m doing something. It’s that whole fish bowl thing. I want to be able to outgrow a facility before I move, even though I’m a man of faith. You still have to be smart. I don’t want to just jump out and get my head cracked. After 4 shows at CSU, the next one was Garfield. They have 750 seats. The first one sold out. Next was the Playhouse. They have 1000 seats. Standing in the Need sold out. I recently talked to the rep about doing the Palace. That’s the premiere place, so hopefully we’ll do that. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Do you ever consider mentoring? There’s so many people who need your knowledge. The things you have said so far make so much sense. You see so many artists who come here, and they’re set up to perform, but the first thing you think is why? You almost know that they won’t sell very well. The effect trickles down, because once people see that your sales are low, you miss out on other opportunities. 

 

Philly Weeden: Man, I come from parties and stuff like that, whenever my brother wanted to throw a party here and there. The thing is, people are only attracted to what others are attracted to. If you go to this party and there's no buzz, or nobody knows…say you have a party that holds 100 people and there’s a line outside, people want to come in because they want to know what’s going on. There's nothing wrong with small beginnings. If you have 100 people, then get a venue that holds 50 people. The better the look, the better the demand will be. Now, you have 100 people trying to get in, and they know they have to get there early because it’s exclusive. You have to be able to build on your brand. You’re only as good as your last performance, or your last production. If everyone walks away knowing you only had 100 people, but it holds 500, they look at you as a failure. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: How have you maintained your audience?

 

Philly Weeden: My key is, I know how to get your attention. If I can get your attention, I can get you to do anything your attention requires. If I can get you to look at this or that, the door opens because now you want to know more about what’s going on. It’s about your use of colors, verbiage, and the way you market. I have a concept that I haven’t strayed away from. I know what has to be done and what my guns are. If I have to post every hour on the dot because I know people are looking, then that’s what I have to do. I don’t mind walking around with a phone in my hand, and I don’t mind sitting down with a phone, as long as I’m being productive. I’m willing to do that because I know what it takes. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: So fast forwarding, how do you get to the point of turning your play into a movie? Obviously, you and I came in contact at the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival last month for the screening of your first film, which was really good by the way. You’ve done all these plays, and now, it becomes a movie. Not even lying to you, there’s something that goes along with up and coming movies and writers. A lot of times, they aren’t necessarily the best. That’s also why you stand out. There was real humor, a relatable story, and it wasn’t outlandish to the point that it couldn’t happen. Nobody would know that it was your first movie, or you are who you are. 

 

Philly Weeden: Of course, when you dream you dream big. It’s like oh my God, how am I going to do this. When I first sat down, I said I would do a play, and then it would become a movie. After the movie, then I’ll do this, and everybody was looking at me crazy. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming big, but everything is a process. Of course, when I sat down and said that, I just said it. Of course I wasn’t working toward it. I’d rather write a stage play because I know the formula. I would question how I was going to do it. Mike Berry was saying he had a movie premiere coming. We went to the premiere, and from there I was inspired. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It’s amazing how seeing someone else doing it, your mind opens to the possibilities. 

 

Philly Weeden: That’s exactly what happened. Everybody sees me as being an inspiration, but sometimes I fall short too, of being inspired. That opened my eyes up and made me want to pick my dream up after seeing it could be done by somebody here. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I thought it was great seeing the transition, especially knowing you did it some time ago at Solon theaters, and now it being in the film festival. How was that experience for you?

 

Philly Weeden: It was a great experience. When I saw the movie, and every time I see it, it’s like the first time. Of course, around different people, you get different reactions. They laugh when you want them to, cry, and you get the awes and whatnot. All that stuff feels good. You write, perform, and entertain for that reason. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I know people keep asking when it’s coming out, so I said I would ask again. 

 

Philly Weeden: (laughing) I don’t know. Over time I think about doing it, and Mike shoots me down. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: You and Taral are doing promo on the 9th on channel 43. What other things will you be doing to promote?

 

Philly Weeden: Just more interviews. A lot with TV, radio, and we have one on the 6th where we will be on the radio. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Everything looks good. What else is coming down the line?

 

Philly Weeden: I have three stage plays I’m working on, as well as a film I want to do. There’s also the community awards that I want to do. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: The last thing I want to touch on, is Naturally Gifted and the connection through your brother, and how he’s helping out?

 

Philly Weeden: He is the owner of Naturally Gifted. As far as Philly Weeden, he acts. I’m his support, and he is mine. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Any kind of words of encouragement, and final thoughts?

 

Philly Weeden: I want people to go after their dreams. I want people to live their life [according to]what they envision themselves being. It’s possible. The only thing you have to do is just do it. I’m no different then Bob, Billy, or Joe. My story is no different. It’s just I’m bold enough to say it. Just take the first steps. I had no experience writing, acting, or anything I’m doing. Of course, now I’m learning different techniques. In the beginning, I just had the guts to step out and do it. I want everyone to start living the lives you thought you could have because you are able to have it.

 

For more information on Philly Weeden, visit him at www.phillyweeden.com

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[MUSIC] Angie Stone: The Rebirth

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As a music lover, there’s no way you don’t know the name Angie Stone. Spending much of her life entertaining you and I with her soulful catalog, Starting first in 1979 with The Sequence, Angie (then known as Angie B.); along with group members Cheryl Cook & Gwendolyn Chisolm, release the hit single “Funk You Up”, which today, we’ve heard in hit singles from Dr. Dre (Keep Their Heads Ringing) and Erykah Badu (Love of My Life - Worldwide Remix). She also spent time working with Mantronix, and as a member of Vertical Hold (they had the hit single “Seems You’re Much Too Busy”), before ultimately setting out on her own. Stone has led an unparalleled solo career that any growing artist would long for. In a flash, that was almost taken away as a result of drama, and what Angie herself chalks up to pure “foolishness”.

In this exclusive, Angie shows us just how some of her most documented struggles nearly ended her career, which has span for more than three decades. She also stands firmly as a living witness that through God, all things are possible, and through prayers, and a few encouraging words, things can definitely turn around in a positive way.

 

Finally, we take a look at her new album, “Dream”, which is due in stores November 6 through a newly sealed deal between Shanachie, Conjunction Entertainment, and TopNotch Music. This deal has caused a rebirth in Angie that fans will most definitely recognize and love. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I am beyond grateful to have this opportunity in speaking with you today. I spoke to you about 8 years ago for the release of The Art of Love and War, so it gives me joy to catch you once again got your new album. Thank you so much for today. 

 

Angie stone: Thank you so much for having the patience to be with me. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Patience is an important virtue. So many people love what you do, including me, and I’ve followed you for so long. Music has been instilled in me my entire life, so knowing your music as a child, seeing your debut in 1999, and all that was to follow, I’m immensely grateful for your teachings. When we saw you on reality television, it was evident that your knowledge spans wide. 

 

Angie Stone: Thank you, and I appreciate that because it’s been a long time. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: But there’s something to be said in the fact that you’re still here, and people still are running to see you and get your music. It’s divine, and meant to be. 

 

Angie Stone: Absolutely. It’s been a long time since I put out the kind of music I’m completely happy with. But it’s been a long time since people have been aware, like this, that I have new music coming. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: They know now though. Your single is booming, and it’s a testament to your strength. 

 

Angie Stone: That’s good to know. I’m glad we’re making a dent in things these days. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: You’re doing more that that, and you have come so far in your career. You've done some amazing things in music and so many people, including artists, look up to you in unimaginable ways. I look at some of there quotes out there from powerful people, like Faith Evans, Al Green, Ledisi, and so on. Many are legends themselves, and others continue to strive just like you. How does that make you feel, considering the work you've put in for well over 30 years?

 

Angie Stone: I feel good and grateful that my peers, even when it doesn't seem I get he recognition I deserve, it’s those people who step up to the plate and hit the ball to make it so worth it. That respect the caliber of work that I do. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I know our time is short, and I definitely want the rundown of your new album, which I've heard and absolutely love all the way through. But I first want to talk briefly about your tour. You were here in Cleveland this past Friday. How did you enjoy your show?

 

Angie Stone: That was really great. Mitchell’s is a very nice spot that I would recommend to anyone that’s grown and sexy. I think they have what it takes to be that hot spot. They were wanting me because I hadn’t been to Cleveland in years. To play with a band as good as they were was amazing. Not knowing how they would accept the new music was scary, but I pulled it off. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: There were so many people I spoke to beforehand who were really anticipating you being here. You definitely have that effect on music lovers, and I think that in addition to the obvious, which is the quality, passion, and substance of your music, you have a personality that will win anybody over. What's the one thing that stood out the most about Mitchell's and the show?

 

Angie Stone: I think people realized I was reachable. I think they enjoyed that. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That speaks to my next statement. Obviously, Mitchell's is more of an intimate setting where you're up close and personal with your audience. Do you enjoy that more than say...performing in a large arena or venue?

 

Angie Stone: Yes, I love being up close and personal. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think that’s what people loved about you being there. 

 

Angie Stone: Right. That’s what I love doing. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I know you're now with Shanachie, which I think is perfect. Looking at their artists, they really get it more than the average recording label. It’s the perfect vibe. Working with Walter Millsap of Conjunction Entertainment is amazing as well. What prompted the change?

 

Angie Stone: What prompted the change was I had given up. I was done and through. I was tired, and Walter Millsap had a dream. He said God had given him this dream. He called and basically said he had to do this project for me. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think it’s great, but why were you don? even the love people have for you, what took you to that point?

 

Angie Stone: I didn’t have a deal. I had been out of the loop for about 2 years, and the last two records I did, nobody knew they were out. They were good albums, and the negative energy from the press based on the incident with my daughter, it was one of those things where they only had half of the story. They didn’t care, and I thought they were trying to beat me down. At that point, I said I wasn’t going to worry about it. I had several shows scheduled to play, and they all cancelled because of the incident. I was tired. I was done. I worked hard all my life, and at this point in my life to take care of my family. I have sunk every dime of my money into my family and here I was, unable to get a job because of some foolishness. I felt thrown away. I had given up and felt tired. That was when Walter stepped in. People ask me how I came up with the name Dream, it came from the dream he had. The second thing I learned was it wasn’t me. It was God all along, because I stopped fighting and trying. i didn’t care, and when I did that, God took over. Now I know the true meaning of the open Footprints. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m so glad you’re here, and I know others are too. I understand where you come from, and that feeling of “what’s the point”. The negativity can push anyone to that level, but there’s so many people who are grateful for your presence. 

 

Angie Stone: Oh yes, because based on what happened with my daughter and I, which was completely a lie, people don’t want to know the truth. They would rather have a ratchet, dirty lie. As a result, they’ve developed a show, not about my daughter and I, but a show on Oxygen called ‘Stop Giving Your Mama Drama”. It’s all about young women who disrespect and fight their mothers. If you see it, you would just be embarrassed. 

 

Urban grandstand Digital: There’s a lot of television that makes you feel that way though. It’s not even just that idea, but even looking at R&B Divas. So much negativity came from the show, and the things we saw were crazy. I remember being glad that you left. 

 

Angie Stone: I left because they were trying to discredit us as black women, make us fight with each other, and they were depositing mess. Even with the lights and cameras weren’t rolling, I was making these girls aware of what they were doing. My kind of honesty was what they didn’t want, so what they did was try and assassinate my character at that point and get me off the show. We have to be responsible and accountable for the signals we put out there and the lives that we’re responsible for are the young women who look up to us. So I said OK, I quit. I could not go another season and allow them to tear down my character. They asked me to come on because they wanted me to mentor the girls, but as you can see they were being disrespectful to me. The very first day I was on there, Keke got smart with me and called me out my name. I said oh no. She ended up walking out with me, believe it or not.

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m happy that you left. We do a lot of things in the name of reality Tv for the sake of building ourselves, but we end up tearing ourselves and each other down. There’s so much negativity that comes from it when everyone should be able to capitalize from it, in my mind, and a lot of it seemed shady. A lot of people are glad you walked way because it damages the legacy you built. 

 

Angie Stone: Thank you so much, I appreciate that. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: In regards to your new deal, I have to ask this because to me, you're a vet in this business. You are at a level and caliber that at the drop of a dime, you can run this all with the knowledge you have. What do you look for in a label at this stage of your career? Can a typical label do more for Angie Stone that was she could do alone?

 

Angie Stone: Right now, I’m starting my own label. When you start your label, it takes capital. One of the things I managed to do very weak is spend my money because I take care of 6 people: my mom, my two children, my two grandchildren, and I buried my father, so 5 now. Things have spiraled up and down. You can imagine putting two kids through college, having one in grammar school, and just the finances of all these people. like Fantasia and a lot of the rest, taking care of family is a lot. I have one act that I managed and represent, and I have to pay for their everything right now. So when you talk about what a label can do for me, it’s about capital. What I can do for myself now, they better watch out. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think you make perfect sense. You need that capital. 

 

Angie Stone: That’s it. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m eager for the album to drop. I think it’s so good. Was there any pressure in your process?

 

Angie Stone: I cut two songs a night (laughing). It made my head spin. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That speaks to your talent and skills, and the things you can do. It’s great because people now get to hear the music. We’ve run 2 Bad Habits on the site for just over a week, and the response is great. The album will do very well. People will surely know about this release. 

 

Angie Stone: Like I said, I thank you all. You know I’m here. I love your spirit and you keep it one hundred. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I appreciate that. You do too though. When we last spoke, we talked about health, and at the time you had recently been diagnosed with diabetes prompting some changes, and I too had recently lost over a hundred pounds. You said some things to me that were so encouraging, and I always remember that. You’re spirit is great too. I appreciate everything. Now in addition to your tour, what else are you doing promotionally?

 

Angie Stone: I’m doing a play in Columbus, GA with my son and daughter. It’s called spare the rod for a child. We’re getting ready to start working on that. There’s also a lot of possibilities in television. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: What's the one thing you want people to get from this album? What should they walk away thinking or feeling?

 

Angie Stone: That I still got it. I want them to know you can do anything you want when you put your mind to it. nothing can stop you. Age ain’t nothing but a number. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Finally can you plug your website and social Media accounts? It looked like there were multiple accounts floating around.

 

Angie Stone: Right. What happened was with a new label, they start their own websites and accounts. The old labels don’t want to give up the codes when you leave them. I’ve been exposed to many of those, so we had to start new accounts. So they are all “TheAngieStone” on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Thank you so much. The album, as I said is great, and I’m so grateful to you. 

 

Angie Stone: Thank you. Take Care!

 

 

Editor's Note: Be sure to check out the video above for 2 Bad Habits. Then take a look at the *Behind The Scenes* view of the video below!

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[MUSIC][ARCHIVES] Lil Mo: R&B's Superwoman

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Despite the many things you may have planned out, life can take you in a total different direction. So is the story for Lil’ Mo. Many will remember her for her smash hits ‘Superwoman’ featuring Fabolous, and ‘4Ever’, also featuring Fabolous. She’s also laid some of the vocal foundation on such hits as Jay-Z’s ‘Parking Lot Pimpin’, Ja Rule’s ‘I Cry’ and ‘Put It On Me’, and so many others. Yet, a number of things pulled Mo in a different direction. Over the past few years, she has expanded her family, and hosted her own successful radio show. Even though not putting out music, Mo has definitely been busy. In our exclusive, Mo talks about her experience on Broadway during a brief stint in the Broadway adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’, and she takes us on a journey through her career.

 

Urban Grandstand: It’s been probably 6 years since I last spoke with you, how have you been?

 

Lil’ Mo: I’ve been good. I took a hiatus from the industry. I put out music, and did radio, but as far as an album, it’s been that long for me.

 

Urban Grandstand: I think so many fans are wondering what’s been going on in your life for the past few years. I know you spent some time doing your radio show, and I do want to talk about that, but I don’t think many knew that you were also a part of the latest production of The Color Purple. Talk to me about that experience?

 

Lil’ Mo: I only did it in D.C. for two weeks. They called me for the Easter return. It was a great experience to be in something that was so notable. Its truly a gift from God, and it as a great way to mirror me back into the business. I have my own fragrance now, and a new album that’s coming out mid summer, around July. As far as my absence, I had to put my family first though. You can please the world, but when fam needs you, that has your heart. The wait is over now.

 

Urban Grandstand: I can only imagine how excited people must have been to see and hear you! I just think back to a few years ago when you were here in Cleveland with Raheem DeVaughn, and you absolutely tore it up. How did it feel to be doing a stage play?

 

Lil Mo: The experience was overwhelming. Doing theatre, I could not go in as Mo. I had to go as the character, which was the church soloist. They ended up putting me in more scenes though because of me fitting in so well. The setting was like the 1920s, not 2011. I had to figure out how to rock it in that era. You have to be selfless. People want to know what you bring to the table. People who did not know me, they were like wow, she did her thing. People were not hating at all, but it was almost like, what is she going to do and bring to the table. We did 16 shows, and I nailed it every night. Sometimes we would broadcast live. 

 

Urban Grandstand: So would you do more Broadway?

 

Lil Mo: I probably would do more. I didn‘t even have to audition [for The Color Purple]. They heard me, and saw my Youtube videos, and figured I could do it. I was in a play called ‘Sanctified’, but I just came in and sang. I have a great work ethic. People didn’t know if I would have a good ethic. Some come and show their tails. It’s a privilege for me. They could have done it without me. They made me feel so good. I don’t know if I can commit for the time they do, like 5 years. 

 

Urban Grandstand: Now getting back to your radio show, I actually thought you had stepped away from it, but is it still airing right now?

 

Lil Mo: My contract was up. I did a year, then stayed til’ they found a fill in. It’s hard to do radio and promote your product. It’s a conflict of interest. I would have to restructure that way. I have a message to convey, and I don’t want to have to make people wait. 

 

Urban Grandstand: I love how when you’re doing a live performance, you go hard and put it all out there. I was watching a video of you on your site where you were on the news network in D.C., and it was easy to see that you were feeling the performance.

 

Lil Mo: That was so early in the morning. Them [vocal] cords have me sounding like Weezy Jefferson. The good thing about me is my husband is my vocal producer. I know how to warm up. I pray, and warm my vocals. We were like Starbucks bandits. It warms my vocals. This is allergy season too.

 

Urban Grandstand: So if you will, kind of school us on your journey? I mean, as a fan, I’ve followed you, from your Missy & Timbaland days, up to your Cash Money experience, and then into your own deal where you were running the show, but I think there are a lot of people now who just don’t know your history. 

 

Lil’ Mo: A lot of people don’t know that during my navigation, I was never directly connected to one crew. When I started off, I was with John P Kee. I did gospel. I went to New York and worked with Guru. They liked my voice so much that we did a U.S. tour. Then I met up with Missy [Elliott]. Someone beeped me and said call Missy. Of course, beepers were the big thing then. Right after that, I get on the phone with her, and went on the road with her. During the interim, I still was not a signed artist. I started writing, and that’s how I formed so many relationships. People respect me because I handled business. That’s why I’m still here til’ this very day. It don’t matter if I hit or miss, it’s just like Irv Gotti said. My name is not scarred. Your word is your bond. Others don’t realize it is all business. If I’m not going to do something, I say it. 

 

I then met with Cash Money. Slim brought me under, but the reason it went left is hurricane Katrina. I felt like I needed to be there. Most importantly, I did not want them to keep spending money on me. They had already spent like 2 million, and I don’t want to be a debt to nobody. A lot of people don’t get the chances I get, or that I’ve gotten. I don’t use people. They call me and I make myself available. I try to keep my name clear. I never do anything to discredit anyone. I’m still the girl next door. I’m older and wiser now.

 

 

Urban Grandstand: Do you feel like you’re having to reinvent yourself at all for a new audience now?

 

Lil’ Mo: It’s almost like both. You never reinvent. If you were great, then you change the package and keep it fresh. It’s the same old me, but just a different package. I’m a mom now, so I try to keep it sexy. My daughter is in third grade, and people be like, your mom is hot. 

 

 

Urban Grandstand: I’ve always found it amazing that you always come out of the gate swinging with a top 10 single, but when your albums drop, regardless of how much you’ve been out there, the numbers don’t really reflect it. Why do you feel like it’s been so hard to reach the people in a sense? 

 

Lil’ Mo: It’s never hard reaching. I know my fanbase. They ask me am I really coming back, or tricking them. Fans want more. They better be able to handle it. I will flood the market so they get enough. I should have never stopped putting music out. I wasn’t ready a few years ago. 

 

Urban Grandstand: How was it for you, doing ‘Troubled World’ with Faith Evans?

 

Lil Mo: For people to call you when no one else is checking, it’s great, and was a good way to get out there again. We also did ‘Endow Me’ a few years back, with her, I, Coko, and Fantasia. We are good friends. To hear me with her, and we’re all great singers. These are people I would sneak and listen to. Now these are my sisters. 

 

Urban Grandstand: So your new album, ‘P.S. I Love Me”, talk to me about that, and what we should look for, in terms of growth and maturity?

 

Lil’ Mo: It deals with, nobody being obligated to make you happy and be your friend. I had to have a love for myself before considering if someone would love me. I have never had a platform to show how real I am. I’m just me. It deals with you loving yourself, with tracks like “This love”, I’ve got dance tracks, a song with Tweet called “I love me”. Sometimes, you give so much of yourself that you feel empty. If you have that love for yourself, then people have no choice but to love you. It’s a lot of people who are friends who we don’t keep in touch with. I realize that sometimes, but some people are there for a reason or season. You always go out with a bang. Like with radio, when I went out, I was number two. It’s an ode to me being myself. You waited, and now you see it was worth it. 

 

Urban Grandstand: What’s been your biggest lesson through this all?

 

Lil’ Mo: No matter what, do not lose focus. It’s easy to lose it. Whether grassroots, or otherwise, it’s such a fight. You can’t get gassed up. It’s harder to get up than to go down. Maintain focus and humility. 

 

Urban Grandstand: So would that be your advice for the next person trying to come up? Or what would be your advice?

 

Lil Mo: I could say follow great footsteps. Great leaders follow leaders. For every level, there’s another one higher. Know it’s a whole other world out there. Don’t give up, and don’t have a nasty attitude. It’s about having that chill factor, and not compromising yourself. 

 

Urban Grandstand: Any final thought?

 

Lil Mo: Everything is going social and viral. You can find me at www.lilmoshow.com. I tweet a lot, but I want to fall back from that. People try to test you. I’m just out here trying to have fun. I’m putting out my own fragrance, and the album ‘PS I Love Me’. Lots of good banter, and showing love everywhere. 

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[DISCOVER] Daniel D

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We had the amazing opportunity of catching up with Patrice Curry, who we've ll come to know from the recently-wrapped 4th season of Basketball Wives LA. Curry takes us on a journey through her reality, The New Reality, and she gives us the run down on the season and her willingness to share her marital troubles with the world, and how they have been able to rebuild as a unit. She also openly discusses the many things going on in the careers of she and her husband, Eddie Curry. 

 

Click HERE to access the UGD Exclusive with Patrice Curry!

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[REALITY] Patrice Curry: The New Reality

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Just as the 4th season has recently ended for VH1's Basketball Wives, we had the opportunity of catching up with Patrice Curry. Curry joined the franchise this season, and as most know, is married to former NBA player Eddie Curry. Without a doubt, Patrice is perfect for our magazine and the message we often aim to push within our articles, interviews, and features. As the title suggests, she is defiantly giving us a new reality. With much of reality television today, and definitely the Basketball Wives franchise, there is an endless supply of drama delivered in each gut-punching episode. Clearly, it sells rather well, and there's a large number of people who are interested in that sort of thing. At the same time, there's an equal, if not larger, number of people who are interested in seeing something more. Frankly, the drama, fighting, high school name-calling, and all else becomes a bit tired after a while. I think that's what makes Patrice's story a little different, and a little more enjoyable. Obviously, she's had her own level of drama in her life over the years, but as you can sense in the few episodes we saw her in, along with reading our conversation, she's arrived at a place that doesn't require the negativity. She's in a happy place, and working to build multiple brands that will ultimately elevate her to greater heights. One would think that would be the goal for all parties involved, but that seemingly ends up not being the case most of the time. 

 

Patrice and I had an awesome conversation, and we talked about a variety of things, starting with this season of BBWLA, and leading into the many projects and ventures she and Eddie are tackling. We also talk about her ability to open up to the world about Eddie's infidelity, and how she was able to move forward and rebuild her marriage to what it is today. She gave is her reality, one that while there are other's who experience it, it's still new in the sense that she's bringing it to us with class. Continue scrolling down to read the full exclusive right here at Urban Grandstand Digital!

 

 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Thank you so much for your time. It’s nice to be able to catch up with you on so many levels. You’ve got a variety of things happening for you. I truly appreciate you today… There’s so many things I want to cover with you today. I especially want to talk about brand. It only makes sense for us to talk a little about BBW because right now, this is where many of your new fans and followers are seeing you. What we won’t do it get into the fights and things of that nature. We definitely like to stay on a trail of positivity. I think that at this stage of the game, you have a brand that you not only want to push, but more importantly maintain. Not even to knock the show in any way because it definitely has it’s entertainment value, but seeing the past seasons and the level of intensity regarding drama, what prompted you to take part in the series for the 4th season?

 

Patrice Curry: I honestly just wanted to be the change in what I was seeing. I was hoping that my presence would be enough for me to be there and interact with the ladies, while bringing something different to the show. That was my objective. I really did it because I am working on branding myself, and thought it would be a good platform for me to get started. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’ve looked at reality television in so many different ways, and my mindset has been the same in a sense. I felt it would be nice to have something different, in a way that deflects from the drama you see, and be that change. On the same token, did you feel people would take to that, or your personality?

 

Patrice Curry: I think that I was hopeful. I have it to God, and talked to him about it. I felt like if it was supposed to be for me, then it would be for me. I can’t control the way people see me or perceive me, or even how they fell about me. I can only be myself, and hopeful that someone finds appreciation in that. My objective was to help another woman who was in a similar situation as me. I wish I had the help when I was going through it. It’s a tough situation, but I’m not the first woman to go through it, and I won’t be the last until society changes. I don’t know if it ever will. I was just trying to help someone else out by using my story to give them a boost and let them know you can get through anything. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think that’s true, and it’s good. A lot of people appreciate the way you were able to let people into your life and allow them to see your truth, regardless of what it was. The fact that you opened up and shared about the infidelity was major. How difficult was it for you to share it?

 

Patrice Curry: You know, at this stage in my life it wasn’t difficult to share it at all. There were times that I was filming and talking to the girls about things, and of course this was cut out, but there were times that I was crying in my talks, or feeling my pain on some levels and thinking of where I had come from and where I was. It has its ups and downs, but I knew I was using it to give God the glory and not just to get fame out of it. If someone can take from what I was saying and use it to get to the next level, that was my objective. I had a good response from people, and I feel like I did that. Even if it only touched one person, one is more than none. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I would think it was equally as difficult bring the kids into the light, especially consider Eddie’s son who was obviously conceived through the infidelity. How do you feel this has affected him, and most importantly, do you think that it has helped in any way?

 

Patrice Curry: The kids weren’t around during the filming process much of the time. That part was showing that we are still a family. It was more fun stuff for them. They don’t deal with adult issues. We try to keep them out of grown folk’s business, so to speak. They are not affected in that way. They are big kids, and they do see television. They do ask questions, although Basketball Wives isn’t a show that I allow them to watch. It didn’t hurt them. They like the spotlight, and they had a good time. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think visibly, people saw that you weren’t involved in every episode. Was that intentional, or how did it play out regarding your involvement. 

 

Patrice Curry: When I started filming, I was supposed to be a full time cast member, and as it went on, my husband decided he didn’t want to do anymore. The show didn’t want me without him, so that’s how that worked out. I guess had I been more active, and more troublesome maybe, they would have felt differently. I feel like I’ve come a long way in life. I used to be a hot head, and I have worked hard to balance the out. I didn’t feel the need to go back. I didn’t really have anyone coming at me for it to be an issue. It’s hard to fight when there’s no-one fighting with you. I would have loved to be on longer to share more, because it’s a lot left out, but it is what it is. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think a lot of people appreciate the direction you came from. I know you’ve seen reality television, and you knew of BBW prior. The drama obviously sells, and a lot of people like it, but there’s an equal amount of people who want to see more than that. They want to see people capitalize the way they should, go to the next level, and build their brands. You’re showing people there’s more to reality TV and they’ve been able to see your true life. 

 

Patrice Curry: Oh, well that’s good. I’m glad to hear that. I was a little worried. Thing would come across in how I was perceived. I know it’s not for everybody. I am in no way promoting that if you’re being cheated on, staying in that relationship and working it out. That’s not what I’m saying, but we were both very young. We were both growing and learning. He was fresh out of high school and into the league. You can’t hold people hostage by their past when they have asked for forgiveness, and they are changed and being a better person. We had a lot of rocky times but we persevered. We got through it, and there were times I hated him and wasn’t bothered with him. We weren’t together going strong the entire time. I hope it didn’t come off the I was just at home twittling my thumbs while he did his thing. It was never that, but the heart wants what it wants. I believe that the fact I had children with this man meant I at least needed to put forth the effort to try and keep them as one, and keep us together. I don’t take marriage lightly. I tried to do what I could do and fight through it. If he were still the same, it would be a different story that you saw. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Now in terms of the show, do you see yourself returning since it has been renewed?

 

Patrice Curry: I’m not coming back. He definitely does not want to return and I have to respect that. They don’t want me alone, so I won’t be back on the show. I am working on other things. A lot of me got list in the translation as far as the show went. I do a lot of things. I’m a very creative person. I write, and I have a children’s book. I’m currently translating to Spanish so I can market it to the hispanic community, who has a lot of the same issues as a lot of us, as far as losing a loved one. I’m writing another book, and my husband and I are writing a book together. I had a meeting last week with an entertainment company. We’re working on some TV shows that I’ve written. I’m working on getting things going. I’ve been a mother all this time, and my youngest just started attending school this year. I knew that once the show aired, I could hit the pavement running, and not have to worry about my children. That had a lot to do with why I wasn’t doing as much as I could. I felt like my responsibility was to raise my children and not have someone else doing it. My mother is deceased, so it’s not like I had her to help me. We’re in talks of doing our own reality series, being a family show that is something positive. There will be times of course, where the kids are arguing, or we’re arguing. It’s real life, so I’m sure there’s plenty of entertainment, but just not on a level where families can’t watch it together. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That’s good. You obviously have a few shows like that and are more positive, but there’s a lot of room for more. There’s a lot of people who really want to see it. People will look forward to that. 

 

Patrice Curry: I’m excited about it. I haven’t told the kids yet. You tell them something, and they don’t stop talking about it. I’m excited though, and we’re ready to move forward. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m glad you mention your other ventures, because you also do art. You have a lot of beautiful pieces the you’ve been putting on Instagram. Obviously, this is something you love doing and it speaks to you in a particular way, given the fact you don’t sell your artwork. In what way does it help you in relieving stress? Do you see yourself eventually selling them?

 

Patrice Curry: Well, I sold a few of them. It’s really hard to sell them though. I need to detach myself from them. My brother is a drummer her in LA. He and a friend of his made an album. It’s a 10-LP collection. I’m working on my tenth painting. We’re going to have an artist talk where we sit, invite a small amount of people, let them vibe off the music and talk about it. I like artsy stuff like that. Those images I will sell. I have about 10 that are like my personal ones, and maybe another 5 that I will sell as well. I’m working on it. I like them se much I don’t want to get rid of them, but I will. I just have to move forward with it. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It shows the amount of talent you have. People who have seen it really love it. That’s why I questioned you selling them. U can understand and appreciate you not wanting to get rid of them because of how personal they become. 

 

Patrice Curry: Well, it’s time though. The whole point in the exhibit is for me to set the platform and begin selling them. I’m ready. I have one painting left. I sew also. I just went to Jesse Jackson’s birthday celebration last week, and the dress I wore there, I made it. Some of the things I filmed in I made. I like to walk in the room and look different. I don’t like following trends so to speak. We may body scrubs at home, and I do a lot of arts and crafts. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m glad people see this side of you. It’s a great way to really step aside from the typical drama we see, and see the depth of you and your career. 

 

Patrice Curry: I agree. It’s going to happen. I’m working on it. I wish I could sing because i would be doing that too (laughing). For now, we’re doing our reality show. You’ll see how i train my daughters, and how I get on the boys about not doing all the things they could do to use their God-given talents to be greater. I definitely am trying to live by example when it comes to them. The point of moving forward with a lot of projects is I see my children are older now and they see me as an example. I’m trying to be a positive example for them and anyone who is looking. I’m looking forward to all of the doors that are opening, and I’m ready. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Where can the world check you out online? Aside from social media, is there a website?

 

Patrice Curry: No. I need to work on that. My cousin was yelling at me the other day about it. I had one, but nobody was checking for me. I felt like it was a waste of time. I’m going to work on it again. Right now, I’m just on social media. Instagram and Twitter are @thepatricecurry. I’m on Facebook as Patrice Curry. That’s it. I don’t know how to use snapchat, so I can….

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Social media has worked extremely well for you though. They serve the purpose for you. 

 

Patrice Curry: I appreciate the people who do check for me. I really do. It has grown since the show. I do a lot of talking about God and sharing what I learn at church for the week. Everyone doesn’t walk with that, But I feel like I’m doing what I’m supposed to. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Are there any final comments, or words of encouragement that you want to offer?

 

Patrice Curry: I just want to tell everyone that God Got It, and don’t give up. What ever is supposed to be is going to be, and just keep pushing.

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[ON the SCREEN] Red Grant: Caught Red Handed

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Completing this interview with Comedian Red Grant has been one of my most exciting opportunities. Like many others, and much like myself, Red Grant took a situation that would defeat most, and used it to build what would ultimately become a promising career in comedy. For some, he might be a new face, but Grant has been here for nearly 20 years, grinding his way to the top. Most would agree that he has finally made it, and the reward is proving to be so sweet. Sweet enough that he’s currently juggling multiple tours, multiple television comedy specials, a sitcom in the works, and probably something else brewing as we speak. He’s worked with many of today’s biggest talents to precede him, including Martin Lawrence, Shaquille O’Neal, and of course Katt Williams, who extended an offer for Grant to appear beside him in the 2007 comedy ‘American Hustle’. Grant has proven that with hard work, dedication, and trust is God, all things are possible. He’s living his dream life with one important rule in mind: TurnUp! He has shown that he is definitely a comedy legend in the makings. 

 

So, with Red Grant currently out on the road from city to city once again with Katt Williams, he’s taking what little time he has to work a little press in between shows. Luckily, we were blessed with the opportunity of catching up with him not only about his foray into comedy and the different things he himself has been blessed to work on, but also his vision as a comedian, and exactly where he sees things heading for his life and career. 

 

Surely, many comics don’t make it for very long in this industry. Many lack that true star power. They don’t necessarily have the tact or knack for captivating the audience. Red Grant is clearly in another crowd. He’s got all that and more. If you haven’t already joined the movement, you’re sure to be on board very soon! Some things are simply inevitable. It’s now time for you to get Caught Red Handed!

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[ON the SCREEN]: Marsha Stephanie Blake: A New Sheriff In Town

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It was such an amazing opportunity to be able to sit and chat with Marsha S. Blake about a number of things, one of the biggest obviously being Orange is the new Black. The show has done so well in it's first two seasons on Netflix, and now with the recent launching of the third season, list if new characters were introduced. 

Litchfield doesn't quite know just what they're in for with Berdie Rogers. Without question, she has a no nonsense type of demeanor that you expect to see in a prison system, yet, that same personality is causing her to blend a little more than what her fellow corrections officers expect, or want to see for that matter. She definitely gets the immediate gratification she's in search of, which is the respect of the many prisoners taking part in her drama classes, and she's seemingly making the difference that she set out for, but along the way, she's unknowingly planting the seed that land her back on the outside of the prison walls. It all gets pretty deep, as we know OITNB to be. 

 

In our two-part exclusive, Marsha gives us the full rundown on Berdie, and why although she's working hard to make a difference, she's still having such difficulty getting that across to her peers. Part one is all about Orange is the New Black! In part two, which will run in our upcoming issue of UGDigital, hitting digital newsstands July 25, 2015, we'll get to know about the other roles and projects that Marsha is involved in. She has been working at her craft for more than ten years now, and finally, the demand is beginning to catch up with her work. She has her hand in a variety of projects, including Happyish, and Our Nation. 

For now, take a look at part one!

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It's such an honor to talk to you today. How are you?

 

Marsha S. Blake: I’m great

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: This season is really good. I’m actually sitting here watching the show right now. I find myself rewinding back, and playing the episodes over again to really get to the grit of what’s going on. I was always a fan, but there’s just something that your character brings to the show, and I’m just trying to figure it all out.

 

Marsha S. Blake: Ok, when you figure it out, let me know (laughing)

 

Marsha S. Blake: Right. What I see is a woman who’s really trying to make a difference in that system, but you have many who don’t see it, or don’t believe that you’re genuine. Why do they feel this way?

 

Marsh S. Blake: I liken it to working in the education system. Sometimes I go in and I’m a teaching artist in the high schools, or junior high schools. This is why Birdie relates to a lot of people. I would go into these schools, working for this company called the Shakespeare Society, and the teachers would contact me because they were having difficulties teaching Shakespeare to their students. To facilitate the learning through doing, as opposed to just reading. It’s a difficult thing to just read. So we bring in some actors, and all of a sudden they are interested. It works miracles. What I notice when I go to these schools is there’s a malaise, and I’m not bashing teachers at all because I have an incredible amount of respect for teachers, like more than any other profession. After a certain amount of time, the bureaucracy of what you’re dealing with beats you down, and you become a part of the system because no one survives. I notice the older teachers who had been there for a while, even though they had so much drive at the beginning of their careers, they lose it. It’s not their fault. You get it. The minute you walk in, the security starts yelling at the kids, then go down the hall and the principal is yelling, and everything trickles down. The teachers literally are the next in line. The bottom of the totem pole are the kids. Then it’s the teachers, then the administration, and then superintendents. Everybody is being yelled at for whatever reason, and the teachers; on top of being yelled at, or being told no to doing shakespeare, or bringing actors in, or the kids cursing…. we went through that, and I’m like there’s lots of cursing in shakespeare, and I’m not telling these kids they can’t curse. If it facilitates the learning, I don’t care if they say fuck. I don’t care if they chew gum. I understand the rules as to why they don’t want gum everywhere, but I’m in there once a week. If they’re listening to me and chewing gum, I just care that they’re listening to me. I can see how I would get frustrated week after week. Imagine year after year of dealing with that and being admonished for trying to get the learning in however it happens. You would eventually not be able to handle it. I think what happens with Birdie, who know’s what’s going to happen because she did get fired (laughing). But Healy knows the system. That’s why he survived. He’s up in there, knows the system, and he’s an older guy. He’s like if you want to come in here with your new ideas that’s great, but this is what works. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I thought it was funny how you were setting up the drama class, and he immediately came in with counts to you having a good turnout. 

 

Marsha S. Blake: Like already, before I had a chance to start, he didn’t think it would work. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: And Birdie developed friendships almost immediately with the inmates.

 

Marsha S. Blake: I think that’s what Healy doesn’t like either. I see that in the schools too. You come in, you’re in your cute clothes, and the teachers are like great, but you know who’s left with them when you’re gone? I am. You can be as chill with them and be their best friend all you want, but at the end of the day I’m left with them. Healy gets a bad rap because he’s not a sympathetic character. I understand why he would be resentful. Immediately, I’m friends with the girls, but I’m a black woman. Of course they’re going to relate to me immediately. It’s not his fault. He tries, and I think he does care about the women, but like I said, you get bogged down by the bureaucracy, and eventually you just feel like you’re trying to survive. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: You feel like it’s not going anywhere. 

 

Marsha S. Blake: Exactly, and you’ve seen it not go anywhere for years. Birdie is optimistic, but she could be Healy in fifteen years. It would be awesome if you could do that for fifteen years and still have that enthusiasm, but the system makes it impossible. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Were you alway a fan to the show before becoming involved?

 

Marsha S. Blake: I was, but I had not watched it, which sounds ridiculous (laughing). I was though, because I knew a lot of the women. Danielle (Taystee), literally, I called her. I knew her because I did a play with friends of her, and she had come to see the play a bunch of times. We used to call her our number one fan because she came to see our play every week. Then we adopted her and told her now she was in the “Hurt Village” camp, because she showed up every week. I called her to see if she would watch this audition I had, and that’s who she was to me before she was Taystee. So, I was a fan because I love her and am so proud of her. I know Maria Dizzia, who plays Piper’s best friend. She’s one of my best friends through graduate school. I knew so many of the women already. Uzo and I had friends in common. I would hear about the show, but I had two kids, so to sit down and watch a show is a big deal to me. It takes a lot of time that I don’t have. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Clearly, there’s a huge benefit to this show being on Netflix because it’s limitless in the idea that you can do more than network television allows, but on the flip side, you get the whole season at one time, and when you have a lot going on, it’s easy to put it off and life can prevent you from coming back. I get wrapped up in that because I have so many things going on. I had to go backwards and watch the previous episodes again to catch up. 

 

Marsha S. Blake. I think what’s great about it on Netflix is also what’s not great about it, in an interesting way, especially if you have a busy life. it’s all there and you can literally watch for two days and be all done. But also still, in the middle of filming, I had to go back and watch because I felt like I needed the back story. I told myself I would watch one episode per night. That’s what I could dedicate and still function with my life, go shoot, have auditions, and take care of my kids. I would inevitably watch three episodes and it’s 3 o’clock in the morning. It’s so well written, and it makes you want to keep watching. That’s what took me so long. That actually happened with Jenji’s other show Weeds. I remember one summer just watching Weeds, and wondering where did my summer go. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It’ll definitely eat up a lot of time. 

 

Marsha S. Blake: It’s great. It’s wonderful and so well written. There were other things you could be doing, but you have to commit to it. And once you commit, it’s so wonderful. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: it’s weird because I had gotten to episode 7, and I almost felt like i had missed something, so I started over about three times and watched again. I’m back to the third episode again. I really love your character though. What else is there to expect with your character?

 

Marsha S. Blake: I have no info in terms of casting, like literally, they keep it as closed-lipped as they can because they’re scared people will leak it. What I can say, with getting frustrated and the bureaucracy working against the things you’re trying to do, we see some of that happening. Resentment from Healy, and people being confused because it is a prison, and here I am with my drama class, and there’s a few comments like, what does she think she’s doing…a fucking drama class? So being misunderstood inn a way because I see an end goal, and I think I’m doing some good but not necessarily everyone agrees with it. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It depicts real life though, because with a lot that you do, people may not feel like you’re being genuine. 

 

Marsha S. Blake: That’s in any office. You come in with a certain level of enthusiasm, and you leave with a better understanding of how the system works. You go to your new job with a different level of enthusiasm. Each one takes a little bit out of you. It’s the formidable one who can survive when the system is constantly beating you down. It’s a very strong person that can maintain a certain level of engagement. 

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[Music] Calvin Richardson: IAmCalvinRichardson

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We were blessed with the opportunity of talking with singer and songwriter Calvin Richardson about his current album, #IAmCalvin, the promotion process, being a part of Eric Benet's Jordan House Records, and so much more.

We're very happy to bring you this exclusive interview with calvin Richardson!

 

Click HERE to access that interview content!

 

For more information on Calvin Richardson and his current project, visit his official website at www.iamcalvinrichardson.com

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[ON the SCREEN][REALITY] TRACI BRAXTON: DESTINY FULFILLED

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We're overly-excited about the opportunity to spotlight Traci Braxton in this new issue of Urban Grand Digital with the new feature, Destiny Fullfilled. We're on the heels of the return of The Braxton's Family Values, and as huge as that is in itself, her story is so much bigger than that! It's a story of fulfillment indeed. We've watch for 4 years as her life has been put on public broadcast. We've seen the ups, the downs, and the in-between, as she has worked to define herself. She's worked to find her happiness, and in this moment, she's finally arriving at that place. One of her dreams has been to lead a successful recordings career, and with God's grace, she's finally achieved it. Her album, Crash & Burn, is her dream come true. She's also been able to use The Braxton's Family Values to build and strengthen her bin with her sisters, something that has been vital to her survival through the struggles. 

 

In our exclusive feature, she opens up about the show, her album, and her triumphs. She talks about her newfound opportunities as Ambassador of the United Negro College Fund, as well as her chance to spread the word about Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, a disease that could have devastated get family, but has ultimately taught her so much and helped her family to grow and strengthen each other. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Thank you so much for your time today. I've always wanted to talk to you and get your thoughts on different things.

 

Traci Braxton: Thank you so much for having me. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: There’s so much going on right now, with your album being out, and the return of The Braxton’s Family Values this week. It’s such a huge thing and it has o be overwhelming. How are you feeling in the midst of everything?

 

Traci Braxton: I am on cloud nine! The Braxton’s Family Values is still running, and everyone still wants to know what’s going on with our lives and what they can learn. Then there’s my album and me doing different things. i was named the Ambassador of United Negro College Fund. I’m very excited for that. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think that’s amazing. You don’t hear much about stuff like that and the media doesn’t put a lot of focus on it, but obviously this is something people need to know. Education is obviously so important. 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes. I’m so excited about that, and I’ve always worked with kids. I’m a senior counselor, and I have been for 15 years, I also worked at Oak Hill, which is a baby jail. I love working with kids. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: There’s smooch behind education, and being able to go to school. I did a story with Angela Robinson, who has also done some things with UNCF. It’s really amazing, but what was it that made you want to do this?

 

Traci Braxton: Making sure education is the very beginning of knowledge and wisdom. My son, I’ve been waiting him to go to college. He’s a young entrepreneur and he has vision, but I teach him that he still has to go to school. I hope it gets through to him that he still needs educational background to know what he’s talking about, so that he can be politically correct when he speaks. Then he can tell people why he opened his business, and why he is passionate about his business. The same thing goes with kids too. Anything they want to do in life, they need to go to school. Try it and see if it’s for you. Get some kind of knowledge. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That’s been my thing. At least try it. There’s so many opportunities come because of being in school. Love the fact that you push this idea, and who cares what everyone else is doing in entertainment, school is still important. 

 

Traci Braxton: I think everybody needs to go away to college. At least go for that one semester. You will understand, either you’re going to learn, or you’re a party person. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I like how you say go away. Almost like you’re saying get out of my house (laughing)

 

Traci Braxton: (laughing) Give the pad a break for a semester. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Truthfully though, this topic just adds to your ability to relate to so many people. Of all of the sisters, I feel like you have been one of the more relatable figures. It’s not to shed any negativity on anyone, but I believe it’s because from the beginning, you’ve been very transparent. We know your struggles, and wanting to pursue entertainment but not being able to because of children and family. There’s so many people;e we know of, who would pick the fame route, and who have done so. To each their own, but I think it’s cool that we’ve seen that transparency in your struggles, and you have proven that you are just like us, Traci. You’re just like us. 

 

Traci Braxton: (laughing) I try to be. Thank you. I try to be, Lord Jesus. These people are trying it too. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Do you get that a lot when you talk to people, and meet fans? Do they tell you that you’re really transparent, and relatable?

 

Traci Braxton: I get some that, and I get some people who say just anything out of their mouths. I bite ‘em right back (laughing). It’s real strange and odd. I know don’t know. I’ve been working for such a long time. No I didn’t have the fame., Yes, I was with the sisters on “The Good Life”, the very beginning before Toni branched out. I was with the sisters again, matter of fact, I was on “The Braxton’s” with “Who's the Boss”. I did co-write two songs on that album. That lets you know I was the4re. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: …and people need to know that. 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes, and when I wasn’t able to sign with the sisters, OK, I stayed with my profession, working with kids. I’m excited that people can relate to me. That’s all I’ve been doing is working my entire life, after I chose my family. So, it was something of the norm. I was from that same foundation, having both parents in the house, both of my parents being ministers, and working with the public. I fell back to what I knew. It wasn’t always singing and entertaining. That was being a productive citizen, having a family, and being working class. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: The one thing  lot of people like about your family on television is obviously you’re doing reality, so there will be drama in some sense, but they compare you to their families. I can even do so. I’m one of two kids, so I don’t have many siblings, but the overall premise in your family was support, and being their for each other. Sticking together. There’s so much support in the background. 

 

Traci Braxton: All families go through a lot of the same things. I’m glad we can touch people who deal with the same problems. OK, maybe I need to do it this way, or maybe I need to talk to my sister. Maybe I need to mend this relationship with my sisters or my siblings, or my parents. You only get one family and you don’t choose them. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: But how difficult is it to truly mend fences, you know, when things hit that level. Obviously, we’re all watching the show, and we see the things that happen and how it heats up. Surely we’ve seen this season’s trailer, and I’m like “oh my god”. 

 

Traci Braxton: (laughing)

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: (laughing) How do you come back from that? Is that difficult?

 

Traci Braxton: It can be very difficult because we all are head strong women. We got it from our momma (laughing), and sometimes, our opinions can get join the way of the healing and us being respectable to one another. During taping and things like that, we come to our senses, or we have someone to put us in our places. For us to get back together and mend the relationship after we argue, it makes our bond even closer. I’m glad we get back together, and say I apologize, I can’t believe I did that to you. Let’s start off new. Everybody knows our communication skills suck. We probably be mad for 5 episodes. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: But that goes back to the reliability. I feel like I made that word up (laughing). But it goes back to people being able to relate to you and you being transparent enough for them to see themselves in you. Communication is a big issue with everyone. Nobody communicates well, but you’re there for each other no matter what. You show that you can rise above it all. Even with your mom, the thing that connected your mom and my mom was when she told Tamar she was going to slap the piss out of her (laughing). 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes honey, she used to say that to us all the time. I was just like, I don’t want to wear no depends and smell pissy all day (laughing). Who wants to do that (laughing)

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I was floored. That can be my mother all day long. 

 

Traci Braxton:  So you have an Evelyn, too. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Yea, but moving away from the show, you’ve been able to parlay this into a music career. You were able to show that yes, you can do this too, and you’re able to put an album out there; a GOOD album, and so well with it. I listen to “Stay Sippin” with you and Raheem DeVaughn, and I’m just like this girl can hang with the best and the rest! What is that like for you with your OWN album out there now? Your OWN baby!

 

Traci Braxton: Ahh, it feels wonderful. I’m still on cloud nine. They still have me in the studio and I’m working on the second album. So, just to show my vocals. I don’t have to be all lavish or wear tennis shows. Sometimes i don’t have to wear tennis shoes all the time (I’m talking about doing a lot of runs on the track). Having a good R&B album and sticking to what you know. I’m not a spring chicken anymore. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Well you look like one….

 

Traci Braxton: Thank you, but this woman is grown honey, and been drinking milk (laughing). It’s wonderful. I can finally say I don’t have a should have, could have, would have. I can check that off my bucket list. I’ve fulfilled my dream. I have Tank to thank, and my brother. The next single will be his song, “Perfect Timing”. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That’s so awesome, because he’s truly amazing. He’s done so much work, even in the past for people like Aaliyah. People don’t get the feel of his depth and all that he does. It has to sit high in your heart to work with him. 

 

Traci Braxton: Right, and he worked with Toni also. I’m like wow! People I did not think I would work with so early in my music career, I’m like wow! He has that much faith in me and the fact that I can deliver. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Will there be a video treatment?

 

Traci Braxton: I hope so. The record label is so tricky. They’ll say they’re going to dose things and then don’t do it. I didn’t even realize that would be the next single. I was trying to do “Holding On”. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It’s almost like that middle child syndrome where there’s not a large amount of push put into it. You end up doing a lot yourself. I always say it’s better to be independent because although it’s a to of work, the reward comes stronger. It’s bothersome that it’s been out there, but a lot of people still don’t know. 

 

Traci Braxton: No, they don’t…

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I think it’s unacceptable in a sense because of the amount of celebrity you have. There’s no reason for people to not know. 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes, the industry is so crazy. I have to say this: the younger generation doesn’t know enough about R&B music. It’s dead to them. When they get older, they not going to always pop their booty and do the nay-nay everyday. I do the nay-nay sometimes (laughing) but I’m just saying. They don’t know about Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Melba Moore, Chanté Moore, and Tina Turner. They don’t know the foundation. They only know jump off music. That doesn’t last though. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: But you’re teaching people that. You’re showing what it is to have a good quality album. 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes! think about it. Normally, someone has a banging CD and people sleep on it. Then after 5 years, boom! It happens that way sometimes. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Well I love Crash & Burn, I hope more people really learn about this because the songster great. We mentioned "Stay Sippin", and “Perfect Timing”, “Last Call” was awesome. The song “Reasons”, it really reminds me of the Tony Rich Project

 

Traci Braxton: Yes!

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It reminds me of “Nobody Knows it But Me”. It’s colt have those references back to music that was out there and what we were able to enjoy, and now we relive it. 

 

Traci Braxton: I have to say this though! My brother wrote therefor Toni 15 years ago, and it never made it on her album. I asked him if I could have it, and he said I had to ask Toni. I talked to her, and you know, she helped me out through the whole process, changing certain things. I’m blessed thatch let me have that song. That was written 15 years ago. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That shows the timeless quality of it. It’s a good song. 

 

Traci Braxton: It is! Timeless! I’m proud of my brother. It was for my mom and dad when they went through their divorce. Toni had it, but it never made it on the album. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: That makes it better because of how it resonates in the family. What are you most proud of with this album?

 

Traci Braxton: My emotion. How i was feeling while making this album. Passion is my favorite song. People think I’m talking about a love, or a man. I’m not. I’m talking about being alone in this passion, trying to get me voice heard, I’ve been waiting song and music to come to me for so long. I did not understand why it wasn’t coming to me. Why don’t you want me. Why am I not getting my gift? Singing this song filled my heart p. then boom, it comes to me. That is my favorite song. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: So before we finish up about the show, I want to bring to light what you do for the cause of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Your son was diagnosed with it. Why was it important to champion this cause?

 

Traci Braxton: The reason I want to push this is that a lot of kids suffer from it. It is in the family of lupus. It comes back misdiagnosed all the time. They have high fevers, vomiting, and their joints bother them. Doctors call it growing pains, but it isn’t. They actually have screenings to look beyond the pains in their joints, and blood levels. It comes in the form of pain in their joints. They say give em Tylenol, or rest. It’s not just that. Sometimes kids have deformities, or bulging in their joints. It’s a painful disease. People need to be aware of it. You have to check up on that. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It puts me in mind of the people who suffer from Sickle Cell Crises. 

 

Traci Braxton: Yes! Seeing my son, when he was younger, having to sit in cool water and putting rubbing alcohol on. Making sure he takes his medicine. Yesterday, I had to make sure he was taking his medicine because he doesn’t want to take it. Him being alienated in school, and not being able to sit in class. Teachers would complain about him getting up, but he has JRA. He can’t sit for extended periods or he stiffens up. The kid has to get up. Then the medicine dries them out, and they have to keep going to get water. They’ll put them in special needs classes, but they don’t need that. They can’t help it. It’s a to going on with these kids, and people, even teachers, have to study it. Sometimes you can mess up a kids education because you don’t understand. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It’s a testament, though, to your hard work. Your son is older now, and has been able to maneuver through this life successfully, and is living a productive life. Will you speak more about this?

 

Traci Braxton: I do have some things scheduled. I love giving back. Just like “Women Below the Belt” with cancer, I can attest to that. I had cancer cells on my cervix. They had to remove that, I was pregnant during that time so they had to remove the fetus. People have to open their eyes and stop thinking it can’t happen to them or their family. No one is exempt to these things. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Definitely. It’s good to have someone like you to speak on this, and show you can live a productive life. 

 

Traci Braxton: I try James. I try (laughing)

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: So closing up, what can everyone expect this season on The Braxton’s Family Values?

 

Traci Braxton: In so many words, I don’t know what’s happening Thursday. I’ll be watching it with you guys. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: It’d be nice if you guys could do something like what Mary Mary has done and watch it with us at the same time. 

 

Traci Braxton: OK, that’s a thought. You hear that networks? That would be a good thing. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: What what’s to be expected?

 

Traci Braxton: A lot of support. We argue with each other, but the support and love is there. I can’t tell you everything going on. It’s juicy. We’re trying to tell everybody. Stuff is about to be unveiled. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I knew you wouldn’t give me too much, but I had to try. 

 

Traci Braxton: You gonna try your hand! James is going to try his hand (laughing). 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Thank you again, so much. You mentioned bucket list before. You have been one of those people on my bucket list to talk to. 

 

Traci Braxton: Really?

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I love what you do, and I tend to look a little deeper. I’ve been looking these last three seasons, and I wonder mores “wow, how is she dealing with that”. I also like to be able to spotlight the causes that you’re working on. I could care less about the drama and things that go on because all families fight and argue. That’s reality. I like to be able to push the bigger cause.

 

Traci Braxton: Well thank you for having me and considering me. 

[MUSIC] TK & CA$H EXCLUSIVE....

TK~N~CA$H have been on a steady ascent since they stepped into the world of music. They're hard work got them notice, and ultimately signed by Violator Management in 2012. They've been working equally as hard since then, honing their craft and solidifying their position in the game. They've worked with a variety of artists, ranging from Trey Songz and Kevin Gates to Young Scooter, Ty Dolla $ign, and August Alsina. They've developed a tremendous amount of respect already in their short career, and the gains show no sign in slowing anytime soon. 

We caught up with the fellas to talk about their career thus far, their new single "3 Times in a Row" with 2 Chainz, and just what the fans can look for in the near future!.

Peep the exclusive by clicking HERE!

[On the Screen] Rita Dominic

We’re excited to connect with Rita Dominic, who is the star of the period piece film “76”, which centers around the 1976 military coup and assassination of General Mortal Mohammed. Produced by Adonijah Owiriwa and Izu Ojukwu, and also directed by Izu Ojukwu, it’s turning out to be the biggest film of Rita’s legendary career. Through today’s connection, we talk with Rita about the film and what it means for Nigerian culture, and we all talk about the other projects she has in the works. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: This is such an amazing opportunity, and I appreciate you so much for it. I would love for you to begin by discussing how you first got into acting..

 

Rita Dominic: Yes, I started when I was very young. I was very much involved in school plays and television programs for children. I grew up acting, and then when I went to further my education, I studied Theater Arts. It didn’t come as a surprise to anyone who knew me. After school, I found myself in the industry. It’s been a journey so far, 18 years.

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Were you the first in your family to pursue entertainment?

 

Rita Dominic: Yes. I’m the only entertainer in the family, but thinking back, I believe I got my talent from my mom. She was a very funny woman. She would crack a lot of jokes, and laugh. She was a very dramatic woman (laughing). 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I think it’s so cool. Obviously, you’ve done a great deal. What is it like to know that you’re one of the biggest names from your area?

 

Rita Dominic: Honestly, it feels really good. It feels like the world is connecting with the quality of work we’re doing. What we do in our industry is tell stories. I think that what gives us edge is the fact that we tell simple stories that anyone can relate to. It feels good that the audience connects to it. Making that connection helps to get the industry to where it needs to be. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I know that overall connectivity, and the ability to show Africa to the world was so important to you. Why is that?

 

Rita Dominic: The parts shown to the world are not necessarily the good parts. We have this tool, that being television, that can be used to show the Africa that no one sees. We want them to see how beautiful it is, and the beautiful cultures and landscapes we have. We have so many talented people in our country. In the world, there’s good and bad everywhere. It looks like the bad outweighs the good, but we can change that perception. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What type of things are being done to ensure the better parts are seen?

 

Rita Dominic: We’re doing that through storytelling, and filmmaking. That’s were my strengths are, and that’s how I can pass on the message. I’m using television to show this. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What has been your goal in regard to the roles you take on and overall perception?

 

Rita Dominic: I want to do more colorful roles. I like for the audience to see my vulnerability. As an actor, I want the audience to connect with me in that way. In being vulnerable, you’re bringing everything you have, and you connect better overall. I like to play very strong roles that are “out of the box”. 

U.G. Digital Mag: “76” has gotten a lot of buzz. Talk about your character in the film?

 

Rita Dominic: It’s a story set against the backdrop of our history in Nigeria. It involves a young soldier who finds himself in the middle of it all. His pregnant fiánce finds herself trying to do all she can to extricate him from the lies. This is happening 6 years after the civil war. It’s like it’s taboo for them to be together. It’s basically a love story around that period. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Was it hard to connect with this role?

 

Rita Dominic: It was very hard because the army wives are the unsung heroes. They go through a lot when their husbands are deployed. I had to see life through the eyes of the army wives. We filmed for 6 months, during which time I talked with them and shared the many emotions they were dealing with. It was very difficult and challenging emotionally, having to be in that space for 6 months. I’m glad I had the chance to see life this way, and be a voice for their stories to be told. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Would you do another role such as this?

 

Rita Dominic: Why not? If I love the story and concept, definitely. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I believe people are getting so much in regard to Nigerian culture, and the value system. Is that something that really connected you to the film?

 

Rita Dominic: Well, yes. This film shows our values as Africans, and what the values are for our families. We take our culture seriously. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What was preparation like?

 

Rita Dominic: It was very challenging. We spent about 2 months rehearsing, and immersing into the roles. I had to gain weight for the role because she was pregnant. I wanted it to be believable, so I volunteered to gain weight (laughing). I did a lot of research about those days, and the way they spoke during that time. I had to learn to speak during that time, and stay that way during the entire time. It was a difficult process, but very much worth it. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What was the most enjoyable part of it all?

 

Rita Dominic: The story, first of all. I’ve never done a period piece before. If anyone could do justice to the story, it was our director. I believe in his work, and it was a very compelling story. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: In terms of the overall goal and what you wanted to get out with the story, do you feel like you achieved that?

 

Rita Dominic: I think we did well, but I think the audience has to determine that. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What other projects are you working on at the current time?

 

Rita Dominic: I’m a producer as well, so we’re currently working on a television series, titled The Bank. We’re hoping to start filming soon. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: How difficult is it to switch roles between acting and producing?

 

Rita Dominic: It’s very difficult. I won’t even lie (laughing). It’s very tasking. The first time I produced, I co-produced with someone else. I also played a very complex role. I didn’t want to touch it because I was producing for the first time. I didn’t want to play such a difficult role, and produce for the first time. My manager at the time talked me into it, and I’m glad she did. That film did very well. It has become a classic in Nigeria. I won a lot of awards and earned a lot of accolades for my work. It’s difficult to switch roles, but I would do it again, especially when it is widely accepted. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Now that you’ve gotten good on both sides, which would you choose if you had to make a choice?

 

Rita Dominic: Acting, definitely. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I love that you’re working to show Africa for the beauty that it has. 

 

Rita Dominic: Television is such a strong tool, and I think people have to begin to understand that if we want to change the minds of the public. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: For everyone wanting to stay updated with you and the film, where can they go to online?

 

Rita Dominic: They can follow me on Twitter at @ritaudominic, and on Instagram at @ritadominic, and Facebook. They can follow the film on Instagram at @76themovieng … there’s a website as well, which is www.76movie.com, and my website of course. 

 

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[MUSIC] Peter Jackson: MARRIED to SUCCESS

Peter Jackson is really doing his thing out there in the game. He’s currently on tour with Leondro, and they’re tearing the stage up out in Canada right now. We caught up with him a few days before the tour jumped off to talk about what he had in store, as well as the empire he’s currently building. He’s breaking so many boundaries in hip-hop, especially with this tour, where’s he’s basically performing an all new project that no one has heard yet. He talks all about that project and more in this exclusive, titled MARRIED to SUCCESS!

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s amazing that you’ve taken time out to talk with us. We appreciate you. How’s everything with the tour?

 

Peter Jackson: Good. I’ve been going through my set, and I’m getting ready to go to rehearsals. It’s a new thing for me with the music because we reached a lot, and did things different with recording and the people we brought in to help us produce and build these records, so the performance stuff is a lot more in depth for me. Sometimes as a rapper, there’s not much going on when somebody is on stage. We took it to a whole new level. It’s been grueling behind the scenes. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: How much do you actually put into preparations? Is it a full set-up, or how does it go for you?

 

Peter Jackson: I’m doing 300-800 capacity. It’s my first headlining gig in Canada, so it’s really big for me. A lot of times, I go out with bigger artists in Canada, usually like Snoop, French, or Akon. This is different because it’s me. It’s naturally a longer set for me, and a lot more of my people are involved. I’m rehearsing a few hours a day. Married to Success is basically a new project for me, so I’m going out performing something that nobody had ever heard. I’m going out to break the records differently. I’m building these records to see what people think, and then put them out. It’s a different concept but I know how important the live show is. In the new year, I’m doing 45 shows with Riff Raff. I’m using this run to get ready for the states. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Why is it called Married to Success?

 

Peter Jackson: At this point, I’m young, and I’m married with 2 kids. Both kids are under two years old. I do a lot of behind the scenes stuff with music in Canada as well. For me, it’s been a way of life. It’s how my family eats. I went broke to rap and I stopped everything else I was doing. It’s like I really put everything into this. It’s like marriage. It’s different nowadays, and people make jokes about it, but marriage is a serious thing. It’s like, I’m European, and my whole culture is about family. My whole upbringing is about family and taking care and providing. The whole stature of being married, to me, is like what I was doing with music. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s good to make that comparison. It’s great that your family is behind you. You lend a lot of credibility to the idea of having a family, but being able to have this type of career as well. You can be successful in your dreams. That’s major. 

 

Peter Jackson: My wife and I have known each other since we were 14. We weren’t together at 14, but she’s been there since then. She’s watched me come up and she has seen the grind. The commitment you make together in marriage is the most serious commitment you can make because you’re building something. You’re building a family. The amount of jobs and people that work in my situation is the same, but it’s in a different light. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s a good story for people too see. 

 

Peter Jackson: I appreciate that. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Take us back a bit to your journey as a whole. You’ve opened for some of the biggest rap stars, including 50 Cent, Waka, French, Jadakiss and the Lox who you also collaborated with. Snoop is out in Canada right now with Young Khalifa. Obviously you’ve connected with him in your journey. The average person can’t sleep on that. It speaks tremendously to your credibility and what you do as an artist. 

 

Peter Jackson: I appreciate that. When I was young, my first big show I did, I ran it myself. Sometimes its hard to get opportunities. What we did was we booked a show at a club that we used to go to all the time. I bussed about 600 people from my neighborhood to the club. We realized that night that this was a business. There’s a lot that needs to be done. We took that, and somebody put me on a show with Jadakiss. I basically sold out the show with them. Of course it was Jadakiss’ show, but we sold tickets. We were putting in work at a young age. That led to a booking agent coming to me, asking if I wanted to go on a tour with Joe Budden, Royce Da 5’9”, D12, and a Canadian artist named Classified. This was like when I first started. It stemmed from there. I have a big part in a booking agency out here now. I’m one of the owners, but it started from running shows, to artists coming to my company when they come to Canada. Everything took a full circle where I can create opportunities for other rappers in Canada. It came from doing good business. I’m a great rapper but I’m an amazing businessman. We turned a hobby into a job for so many people. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I love that you speak of turning a hobby into a career. That’s the whole story behind this magazine, me doing radio, and so on. 

 

Peter Jackson: My DJ, who was my best man at his wedding, and I was the best man at his, he’s the music director at Virgin Radio in Toronto, and he started as a Reggae Soca DJ. That’s what he did, that’s what his dad did, and now he’s on one of the biggest stations in the country, he’s a music director, and a Veejay. We went from making nothing to this. The thing about Canada is we are behind on the music infrastructure. Drake blew the doors off for us. A bunch of people were coming through. He has created probably 2000+ jobs here. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s good to hear other artists acknowledging Drake, and other artists in general. You don’t see it a lot.

 

Peter Jackson: No, because most people aren’t good in their own situations. How can you give somebody else props if you’re not good in your own light? I’m good. I got love for him, and vice versa. And there’s others who came before him, like Maestro, and so on. He is setting it up for those behind him. Like two kids just got signed to Def Jam from Toronto. Other artists are booming. Toronto is one market. It’s not a whole country. There’s a bunch of markets, but he’s opened the doors, and he’s giving me ideas too. He’s creating a blueprint the same way we are. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I love talking to you for your insight. This tour is going on, and ends on the 20th. You’re doing 45 dates starting next year. Where can everyone keep up with you, and stay posted on the tour dates?

 

Peter Jackson: Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. I’m touring from January 10 through March 3rd. Then we’re going to Europe. Riff Raff has been amazing with me. We have 3-4 records together. We have a good relationship, and we’ve built so much together. I just recorded a new project called Married to Success. It worked out strange. I went to record an EP, and came out with 6 singles. I really have 6 of the biggest records I’ve ever had. I have a single and video out with Waka Flocka called “Havana”. It won video of the year over here. This new project is big for me. As an artist, I really got to say what I wanted. I got to portray it and put it out the way I wanted. I have a single with Tory Lanez coming. A lot of stuff going on. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s amazing man. I’m looking forward. We’ll definitely stay connected. Any words of encouragement?

 

Peter Jackson: Really, the message is to push. I’m still building. I say I’m good, but for me it’s a continuous build. It really does not stop. My stage show is super tight, but I’m performing all new records, so I’m back at the drawing board. It’s not a hobby. This is a job, and it needs to be treated as such. The hood stuff is the hood stuff. That’ll get you what you think is respect, but it’s about much more than that. 

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[MUSIC] Divine Brown: Aspire to Inspire

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Every artist looks for ways to learn, grow, and be inspired through their journey, but to be one that aspires to foster that growth to others, it says something pretty amazing about you. In the many features we offer here at U.G. Digital, we aim to bring you artists who embody that spirit, and who work tirelessly to give back to the very culture they’ve worked so hard to be a part of. I’m clear that we’re fulfilling that mission with Divine Brown. Her spirit is like that of no other you’ll see or hear. Her work is truly amazing, so much that as an independent artists, she’s already been recognized with a Juno award, which as most know, is the Canadian equivalent of a Grammy award. Understand though, that while she’s grateful for that, it definitely hasn’t defined her path. That definition comes from the grind she’s put in, what she’s gotten back, and the many things she has yet to conquer. We had an amazing time taking about her journey thus far, why it’s so important for her to be that inspiration, what she took away from so many artists he’s loved and followed for so long, and so much more. It’s time for you to be amazed by this beautiful raw talent! Meet Divine Brown!

 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I’ve been hearing so much about the power behind your voice that I said I really needed to catch up with you and talk before you become super huge out here and don’t want to talk to anyone anymore.

 

Divine Brown: [laughing] Well thank you…

 

U.G. Digital Mag: How have things gone, considering all the work you’ve put in, and how people are really catching on now?

 

Divine Brown: It’s really been a phenomenal period of growth for me, I would say over the past five years. I’ve been a recording artist here in Canada since 2005. I’ve won a Juno award, which is the equivalent of a Grammy. It’s amazing to be recognized. At the same time, I’ve always been frustrated with the idea of being heard outside of Canada, which has always been a major frustration, and it’s caused some tension between myself and labels here. It’s no fault of either side. I believe the infrastructure was significantly changing, and continues to change, in regard to how labels work. I think there’s a lot of power from the digital age that is not necessarily given over, but it creates a larger platform to be heard, and do things independently. Outreach is phenomenal. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Where do you feel like you fall into it all when it comes to there being more opportunities for independent artists. Does it hurt you, or does it help you grow?

 

Divine Brown: It definitely helps me grow as an artist. It’s brand new territory however. That’s what makes it exciting. It’s like the mantra of stepping off the ledge to know your potential. You won’t know until you step off. You’ll never know until you allow yourself the courageousness to do that. I think that is the place I am at right now. I have grown from each of my frustrations that I’ve run into. I don’t think they are a negative thing. They are opportunities for me to learn. The only way to move higher is to learn from things like that, and the seemingly negative experiences. I have to use those opportunities to say ok, maybe I’ll do this differently next time. I will take this into my own hands now, and see where it takes me. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I love the way you talk, especially talking about the digital age and how it affects you. I can tell from your conversations that you’re intensely involved. You have a lot of artists who claim to be independent, and claim to be moguls, but they don’t want to do the work that comes with it. They just want to say they are the boss, but they have no idea what it takes. They then get upset when the level of success doesn’t match their dreams. Your conversation shows you know what’s going on, and you’re truly working. Your name is something to be heard in your area. Why do you think it’s been so difficult for your music to make it outside of Canada?

 

Divine Brown: I think it’s a number of reasons, and we may not even have enough time. Some things that come up immediately is the outreach of some of the labels here. I wasn’t sure, for me anyway, having a few different experiences at different points. They don’t have the kind of relationships that they advertise with their worldwide counterparts. As far as I’m concerned, if you believe in something, you’re willing to hop on a plane to put it in someone’s face and not take no for an answer. It’s really that simple to me. There was a strange disconnect between when I went to another country and sing my song in a stripped down format, and they ask when I was putting something out. There was that, and then being told that people didn’t want this or that. That’s not the response I get in front of people. Once i threw my hands up and said I was not going to accept, it was time to chop off the things that didn’t work for me, and get into the idea of working with a digital company that had access to 250 countries around the world. Do it myself and look at what happened. I put out a project digitally called Crazy Love, and I’m releasing it again, and calling it Crazy Love Amplified. It’ll include some remixes to some of the songs. Last year when the album was put out, there was no marketing, PR, or anything to push the product. It was an indie situation between a subsidiary label. This was an indie label, and I was tied to another indie label, and it made me think how would it work without PR or marketing. So I thought, in hindsight, that it would not work. I can’t push something without PR or marketing behind me. That won’t help me either. That’s how I got to this place where I am now. I’m just taking matters into my own hands to see where I end up. When I’m given the opportunity to sing in front of audiences, I can win them over by giving them my gift, which is a divine one. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Half the battle is knowing what you have, and owning it. It’s not about being conceited, but you have to know what you bring to the table. You can win over any audience with that. From what I’ve heard, it’s amazing. I love the fact that despite the situations you’ve been in and what may have happened along the way, you have taken matters into your own hands. You haven’t given up and you’re still here. That’s what makes you such a powerful artist. You’ve gotten the awards and accolades. You’ve been in so many stage plays, which requires so much. How are you able to balance that?

 

Divine Brown: Balance [laughing]. I have to laugh, because one will take precedence over the other at some point. Sometimes they go together, but recently, I did a production by the African American poet Suzan-Lori Parks, who is getting a lot of attention because for this piece. It’s so relevant in the way she wrote it that the images that come to your mind when you watch are relevant to thing happening right now. I was really blessed to be a part of that. The thing that was interesting about my part was that although it was called a narrative role, all I did was play guitar and sing. Now mind you, I did not know how to play a lick of guitar when I got this role. I had to learn how to play guitar to do this show. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: That’s the type of thing that makes you amazing. You figured it out. 

 

Divine Brown: When I tell people who came to see the production at Soul Pepper Theater in Toronto that I had to learn it, they’re shocked. They said it looked like I played for a long time. I had no idea what a C chord was. The day I started learning was the day Prince passed. I had gone to a gas station, and an attendant told me. I didn’t believe it at first. I eventually went back inside to see it on the news. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: So many people did not expect his death. Its the case with a lot of celebrities. You never know if to believe it because so many hoaxes happen. It even goes back to Michael Jackson. Many didn’t believe it at first. 

 

Divine Brown: For me, it was like getting slapped in the face without a good morning or anything. A number of things went through my head. A number of people i know were touched by Prince, including one of the newest guitar players who played with him, named Donna Grantis. I played with her a number of times, so she was the first person I thought of. The second thing I thought was to call my musical director and see if she had heard. She asked if I still wanted to come in and I thought for a second. If Prince was standing there right now and I was about to get my first lesson, I think he was say I better get in there. So I went and started to learn my first few chords. I do play electric bass. I play by ear but it had been a while since I felt the inspiration to play. I’m so glad I learned, because now if I don’t play my bass at least once a day, it doesn’t feel right. That’s the thing for me, to challenge myself and step outside of the norm to enrich my experience. I’m not just a vocalist. I’m a musician. The next challenge for me is doing a musical called Passing Strange. I don’t know if you’ve heard of it, or if you like plays. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Actually, I love plays and musicals. My wife and I spend a lot of time seeing different productions in our free time. 

 

Divine Brown: Nice. I can’t remember the name of the musician who wrote it, but I know Spike Lee took an interest in it. We start rehearsals next February, but the company does shows called Uncovered, where they cover a bunch of the performers from the shows. They’ll take two artists and have them perform. I’ll be doing two songs by Queen. Once is Another One Bites the Dust, and the other is Somebody to Love. There’s a video that I put up on my Facebook page. The challenge is that I elected to play bass and sing. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Amazing songs though

 

Divine Brown: The baseline is easy. The melody is easy. Putting them together is a whole other thing. I get sweaty palms James. People are watching, and I haven’t played and sang in front of an audience in so long. It’s so fulfilling when you start to get it, and it will be even more fulfilling when I do it. That’s one thing about my character is to never allow myself to be lazy and take on challenges. This reinforced my love for the instrument. I take on the challenge because there’s an immense amount of growth. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: What are the ways you know that opportunities like this will foster that growth that you aspire for?

 

Divine Brown: It’s important that I find inspiration in everything. I get inspired when I watch people who are good at what they do. They’re good because they put the work in. The growth for me comes from taking those opportunities to take on challenges, and then talk about my journey and process. That will inspire others. A huge thing for me is being inspiring, and knowing that sharing stories like this, talking about learning guitar, and forcing myself to play a song, somebody out there sees they can do it. That kind of growth and sharing those stories, and putting myself in uncomfortable positions will help me when it comes to putting a new project together. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Once of the things this makes people wonder is how do you find inspiration in the situations that may turn out to not be uninspiring to you, or those where you have the most struggle? You’ve endured a lot in the process, and it’s been things that would turn the average artist around. You’re winning, undoubtedly, but sometimes people are winning and they don’t realize it. What has kept you moving forward?

 

Divine Brown: It’s the love for what I do. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I absolutely adore music. I adore being on stage. I adore sharing my gift. It really is not about who loves me. For some people, it’s important to have their egos fed through that, but for me, and the heroes I look up to, it’s about sharing the gift, and that for me is heaven on earth. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: A lot of people strive for that, but never get there. I always say follow your passion and make a career out of it. I see that’s what you have done. 

 

Divine Brown: Yea, I’ve known for a long time, and that seed was planted in my heart in the very beginning. The interesting thing is I’ve learned a lot along the way. I continue to learn about the aspects of what I do and having it included into the whole picture. I’m an artist’s artist. I know the administrative part sucks, but it has to be done. Within reason, I have to tread some uncomfortable waters to get to where I want to go and grow. I have to also be able to admit when I’ve reached the pinnacle of some arenas, and hand things over to someone I trust to finish it off. The key is working with people I trust. Through the course of management, it’s been interesting. A lot of managers don’t know what it truly takes to manage an artist. It’s one of the hardest and thankless jobs out there, but at the same time, it can be thankful if you love what you do and do it for the right reasons. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: That’s the problem. Many managers aren’t doing it because they love it. They’re doing it because it’s a payday. There’s a lot of money in some cases. If you look at other careers, like healthcare, you and I know so many people don’t do it for the love, and because of that, the care suffers. 

 

Divine Brown: Health is an interesting example to use. If you don’t love it, you can’t inspire the patients who need it the most. That much I understand. It doesn’t matter if you work in geriatrics or cancer. I caught that from you, and you speak 100% truth. You have the spirit where patients want to be around you. I get it. So the thing is, essentially I’m all about inspiring people through what I do musically. I’m so thankful because there’s been a tremendous growth for me in the past few years. I knew I had these abilities, but now it’s effortless. It comes from putting myself out there and in these uncomfortable positions. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: But that also happens when it’s organic and you’re not forcing. It’s almost inevitable that you will be successful. 

 

Divine Brown: I totally agree. I feel blessed and I’m in a great place. I’m enjoying every waking moment of this journey. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Your motto is aspire to inspire. Who have been the people to inspire you? So many people come to mind when I listen to you. People like Jill Scott, India Arie, and Jaquar Wright. I think you are in an elite class artistically. 

 

Divine Brown: Wow. There’s so many. I love Jill Scott. I love her overall vibe. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I thought of her when you said it wasn’t about whether people like you. She’s the same. It’s her heart, and her healing. 

 

Divine Brown: Yea, and that’s the thing. I think attention is a by-product of what I do, but it’s not why. I also love Ledisi. She’s such a powerhouse. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I love her too. It’s funny because a while back, right as she released her latest album, she was on the Tom Joyner show, and she was scatting with one of her songs. When I finally got the album, I was kind of sad that it didn’t sound the same way she did it on air, but it still was amazing though [laughing]. Her spirit is amazing. I interviewed her when she first came out as a new artist, and it was the same then. 

 

Divine Brown: Right, I really do too. She’s a monster vocally. I really love people on the come up. Minnie Ripperton, Rachelle Ferrell, Lalah Hathaway, Chaka Khan … there’s just so many. My elders, like Maya Angelou, and powerful women like Oprah Winfrey, who started from nothing and built not even an empire but a conglomerate. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: You and I are inspired by many of the same people, but it speaks volumes to hear you say the people you did. 

 

Divine Brown: The thing is, there’s so many artists that I draw different things from. Even now, someone I’m loving is Niki West. She’s an exciting young talent. She’s like a female Bootsy Collins. Her bass playing is incredible. Tho range of people I look up to is wide. The range of people who inspire me is wide. It’s not about a genre. It’s the feeling I get when I listen. Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, and so on. The range is great. Earth Wind & Fire, Cameo, Confunkshun, Journey, there’s just so many. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s so great, and I see the influence. What’s next now? I know you’ll be doing the performance in November.

 

Divine Brown: The workshop in December for Passing Strange. In the interim, I’ll be working on my bass playing skills. I’ll probably pick up an acoustic guitar so I can use that as part of my songwriting arsenal. I’ll also be doing writing. The project I’m dropping early next year is Crazy Love Amplified. The song that will be available online is Love Alibi. It’s like a soulful house track, reminiscent of Martha Wash back in the day. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: It’s funny how musical taste can change. Years ago I was not into any house music, whereas now, I love it. 

 

Divine Brown: Yea. The whole EDM thing was banging for a little too long. It was like that was all you would hear all over radio. Now you still have some songs like that. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: When people think of you as an artist, how do you want to be remembered?

 

Divine Brown: I want to be seen as powerful, yet delicate. The biggest thing for me is versatility. I want to be seen and known as that. I want people to know there’s nothing wrong with being versatile. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: You can do Soul, Jazz, perform with Nelly Furtado, and you can mix it up and do whatever. You don’t just “pull it off”. They get nothing but versatility from you. 

 

Divine Brown: What I love about being independent is I don’t have to have somebody in my ear all the time. People can have an opinion, but an opinion is just that. I got really tired of hearing “well wait a few years”, or “this doesn’t sound like the first album”. Why would it sound like the first album when I have an entirely new set of experiences?

 

U.G. Digital Mag: If it did, then that shows you haven’t grown. 

 

Divine Brown: Right. That’s it. But then the artist gets labeled. True fans love it. They don’t care. It’s like D’Angelo. He put out Brown Sugar and Voodoo. Then you waited, and waited, and waited for the Black Vanguard. I’m a fan, so I love everything. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: I thought people were crazy because when Voodoo came out, I loved that album. I played it so much that people around me were sick of it.

 

Divine Brown: You played it like that because if was dope. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Exactly. And when you look at Lauryn Hill. She’s grown so drastically, and people couldn’t keep up with it. She was here in Cleveland just a few days ago, and it was like, I’d be crazy not to go. I love to see that growth. 

 

Divine Brown: That’s the thing. Those are the type of artists I love. The ones who show their growth. The artist that’s not afraid of challenges, and constantly looking for ways to challenge themselves. I’m a storyteller, and I own it wholeheartedly. I tell a story with my voice, with my body on stage, and the sound that comes out. Whatever is necessary to paint the picture the best way possible, that’s what it is. 

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Where can everyone find you online?

 

Divine Brown: My website, www.divinebrown.com, I’m on Instagram under @divine_brown_music, and I’m on Twitter under @divinamarrom

 

U.G. Digital Mag: Words of encouragement and final comments. What words do you leave to those wanting to pursue this business?

 

Divine Brown: Don’t be afraid to step off the edge, meaning don’t be afraid to take chances. The chances help you align yourself with the people you need in your life and circle. That’s what gets you noticed. 

[LEGENDARY] Eddie Levert

No one can question the impact Eddie Levert has made on the music industry. Fans have literally watched him entertain the masses for more than 50 years, showing those who aspired superstardom that anything was possible if the work was put in. They all watched as he raised a family of superstars, with two of his children, Sean & Gerald Levert, reaching amazing heights in the entertainment world. He truly laid the foundation, showing them what it was to work hard at what he loved. Indeed, he worked extremely hard. Eddie spent many years fronting the O’Jays, worked on several projects with Gerald Levert, and launched an uber-successful solo career that still carries on strong this very day. We’ve also seen him hit the big screen a few times in a way like no other. 

 

We had the distinct honor of catching up with Mr. Levert recently, and he slowed down, if only for a moment, to talk with us about what it meant for him to be considered a legend and what legendary means to him. He takes a brief moment to relive his recent appearance on The Soul Train Awards’ Soul Cypher, and what it meant to be a part. Finally, he gives us a glimpse into the new material he has been working on, as well as his new single, “Did I Make You Go Ooh”. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I’m immensely grateful in being able to connect with you today Mr Levert. You've been so instrumental in the lives of my family alone with your music. Many of them come from Canton as well, so they've followed you for years, as I have. In addition, we've all followed your children and their legacy which continues to thrive in this industry. Anytime I've met you, you have always been extremely humble and encouraging. Your children were the same. I recall interviewing Gerald and he and I spoke for almost two hours for a 15-minute interview at 8am. He was always nice and welcoming. The fact that he and Sean were that way speaks volumes to upbringing and foundation. We're featuring you in a monthly series we title Legendary, and for all you've done in music, life, and the lives of so many others, that alone makes you legendary to us. I know that's not the first time you've heard your name associated with being legendary, so where does that title resonate with you when you hear yourself being considered as such? What does it mean to you, to be legendary? What do you define as legendary?

 

Eddie Levert: Thank you so much for that. That means a lot to me. For me, legendary means someone who has been here for some time. It's someone who has done things in their life to make changes for the world and other people's lives. I think of individuals like Martin Luther King, Jr. I think of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ has brought me this far in life. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I love the fact that you mention and speak of Jesus Christ

 

Eddie Levert: but you have to understand that I'm not heavily religious. I'm not in church every Sunday

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Understood, mostly because I'm the same. I'm not there every Sunday, but that foundation is most certainly there for me. I see it as the same for you, that regardless of you not being there each week, that foundation is there. That foundation was instilled in both Sean and Gerald. I recall interviewing Gerald at 8am, and we spoke for two hours for what was supposed to be a 15 minute interview. 

 

Eddie Levert: Exactly (laughing). That sounds just like him. The foundation is definitely there. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: We've watched you for more than 50 years doing whAt you love. From the O'Jays to a tremendously successful solo career, along with things like The Fighting Temptations, you've done it all. What, in your mind, has been the key to your longevity?

 

Eddie Levert: In my time, I've worked to bring you real R&B. Whether it was with my solo material or with the O'Jays. I have Did I Make You Go Ooh and it's doing well. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: Recently, you were at the head of the soul cypher for the Soul Train Awards. Obviously, you're the favorite artist of many of our favorite artists. There was a clear connection with you and K-Ci at the close of the cypher and it was obviously how much he loves what you do and respects your craft. What was it like for you to connect with him, along with Lalah Hathaway, Chrisette Michelle, and Ms. Erykah Badu?

 

Eddie Levert: It was amazing to connect with each of them. I've had the pleasure of doing shows with them throughout my career. There is definitely a connection with K-Ci and I. The thing is, my son Gerald is responsible for bringing me into that circle. He connected me with people like Flavor Flav, and Heavy D, and so forth. I often do shows with LSG. I go out with them to make sure they're not getting all the money (laughing). I'm always grateful to Erykah Badu and I will forever be grateful to her. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: I don't think many people realize that you still have a child in adolescent years. What is the legacy that you strive to leave for your daughter?

 

Eddie Levert: Yes. But in her mind, she's not a child anymore (laughing). I want her to see that it's possible to do this. She wants to be a performer. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: the beauty is that she has seen everything though. 

 

Eddie Levert: Yes, she has. She always says that too. She'll say daddy, when I become a performer I'll do this, or I'm not going to do this. 

 

Urban Grandstand Digital: You have nothing to worry about. You've laid the foundation. She also learned the same lessons from both Sean and Gerald. She has no choice but to make it at this point. So, as someone who has experienced great success not only in career but in life, What has been your greatest accomplishment in your eyes?

 

Eddie Levert: There's been so much over the years. My greatest achievement has been my children. I've raised then to be respectful and treat people right. I'm still doing it. My children have been my greatest accomplishment. 

Check out our conversation with the legend himself!

 

 

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