Life in Haiti by Leclerc Brothers Motion Pictures

May 22nd, 2010 | By blameashley

They are Fly like the Birds!!

April 14th, 2010 | By RS

“Female collaboration of two minds with musical and lyrical heft” ~The Universal Ninjas

Recently, a friend of mine invited me to a Birthday party. After reviewing my evening plans of tea and reading; I decided some human interaction would be great. When I arrived I was immediately intrigued with the entertainment. Two eccentric women with a stage full of instruments. They penetrated the atmosphere with sounds and vocals that seem to draw you into another world, mesmerizing and soulful to say the least.  Anika Trujillo and Ariel Rogers, two musicians who have known each other since High School form the band “The Universal Ninjas”. Combined they play over seven instruments, including drums, bass guitar, the khim (Thai percussive piano), keyboard, drum machine, and a cowbell. Gotta love the cowbell!

After a wonderful night of Birthday cake and cosmic music I pursued the Universal Ninjas and nailed an interview with the vibrant duo.  Continue reading to check out my conversation with the ladies, as they open up about their music, inspirations, and a dream tour with M.I.A and The Blue Man Group!

Where did the name The Universal Ninjas derive from?

Anika: The name initially was just The Ninjas but it needed something more so we added the word “Universal” in order to not only unify the group but also to put a stamp on it;  this is music for many different ages & backgrounds

Ariel: Progression comes from a unified effort and our music will encompass anything that has caught our attention.

The energy at your live show is addictive, how do you manage to lose yourself on stage?

Anika: Well it’s a somewhat simple formula practice, practice, practice and most of all dedication.  Knowing a song inside and out makes me comfortable and able to focus on what the words mean to me what a certain chord progression needs to make you FEEL.  Plus the cherry on top is having someone by my side on stage that I know is doing the same thing and can hold her own regardless of me.  We both are queens and we bring our respective individuality and strengths together to create The Universal Ninjas, kind of like captain planet.  I can sense energy and I grab a hold of what a viewer/listener is sending me and amplify it on stage then communicate that feeling right back to all the people present.  I hope it translates well because on my part it is always sincere and meaningful.

Do you feel any pressure being a female band?

Ariel: There is no pressure. I make music because I enjoy it. The moment it loses that essence I’ll pull a Lauryn Hill and vanish for about 4-5 years with a whole new vibe and perspective. Pressure arises when you have expectations that you feel you may not meet. Anika and I have self- and mutual respect and what results is an audience that is infatuated with the sounds we’ve put together; not what’s underneath our clothing. I’m not in the business of selling sex or my body. I provide music that jump starts and catalyzes your imagination but that is also appropriate at your 4^th of July BBQ with the family. We define how we will be perceived through our demeanor and our music…thus eliminating any pressure at all. 

Are you songwriters?

Anika: Absolutely I would not have it any other way.  I have been writing lyrics in one form or another for as long as I can remember writing.  It is my favorite component of the song making process.  I would love to write for other artists someday because there are words that I cannot sing but I hear.  There are words I need to hear from others not myself because sometimes it just can’t be from you.

What inspires you ?

Ariel: Great performances. I first learned this from my father. He is one of the greatest story-tellers and educators in the world. He has a way of making you invest your emotion into whatever the topic.  There are moments when he speaks and every pair of eyes is on him and each accompanying set of ears is perched waiting to receive the successive sound bytes. Michael Jackson has this ability. Martin Luther King had this ability. The Beatles, Aretha Franklin. Wyclef Jean. Circ Du Soleil. I’m inspired by greatness; whatever form it takes. However, there is a personal element that says “just let it all out”. Music is therapeutic. It’s moving, if done well. I am inspired by the knowledge that I have the gifts, the tools and the desire to create art that I love and that others can enjoy as well.

What is in your iPod? Who are you listening to?

Ariel: I’ve been getting more and more into records over the past several months. I have my father’s old collection Michael Jackson, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Sade, Bolero, and Rose Royce, War, plus any others I’ve picked up along my thrift store adventures. My little treasure is a “Peter and the Wolf” record of the symphony/fable accompaniment. I loved it as a kid and it’s still good to this day; the epitome of storytelling via music.

**Thanks Universal Ninjas for your time! And to all the readers if you want more of the fabulous ladies visit www.myspace.com/theuniversalninjas for cool videos of their live performances. Also they are available on Facebook, Twitter and Reverbnation

And for Booking please reach out via e-mail at  the.universal.ninjas@gmail.com

Peace & Light

Reign Star

The Man…The Music…The Message

January 6th, 2010 | By RS

His Name is Eshon Burgundy

Let’s begin what, where, why or when/will all be explained like instructions to a game/see I’m not insane in fact I’m kind of rational/when I be asking you, Who is more dramatical?/This one or that one, the white or the black one/ Pick the punk, and I’ll jump up to attack one~~ KRS-1 “My Philosophy”  

It was this classic Hip-Hop song that introduced eight-year old Eshon Burgundy to his future.  After seeing the video for the first time at a neighbor’s home, Eshon knew exactly what he wanted to become when he grew up; an emcee. Since that time he has matured into a skilled artist with a powerful message intricately woven throughout his music. The love of God and the details of a life dedicated to him. Eshon Burgundy creates music that is truthful and incredibly uplifting, its feel good music for your spirit.

Do you write all of your material? If so what inspires you?

Yes, I write all of my material even the hooks that myself and others sing. I normally catch a melody in my spirit then the words follow. My personal walk with the Lord, His Word, and my family is what inspires me, not just in music, but in every aspect of my life, it is my life!

What message are you seeking to give through your art?

The Lords’ message of salvation, and what it means for those who receive or deny such a precious gift.

It’s not a secret that Hip-Hop music has changed. What is your opinion on how Hip-Hop has evolved?

I think Hip-Hop has become a great source of transportation. Its arms have grown extremely long in forty years; it now reaches around the world and is rapidly becoming a preferred vehicle among the masses! I think it’s because of its cargo; hip-hop is the only art-form that can contain every other art form and still maintain its character and title. Hip-Hop is also a media outlet, stocked with current events, fashion trends, gossip, and my personal favorite Faith! Hip-Hop is the reality show of music genres 

 Are there any new projects you are currently working on? 

My Debut EP with Andre McKnight of Street Orchestra Productions. The EP is called “Blood Bought”, it was released (online only) on Christ-Mas day. The project features: Tani Selah, D-Maub, KDrama and Mel Alston.

The single for my debut album entitled “Blood rushing to my head” (2010) was made available on December 25^th as well.  When you download the single you receive the EP for free. The single is called “The NAME” and the video just recently premiered.

When your music career has come to an end, what will be your legacy?

Just that I served God.

Where can people find out more about Eshon Burgundy?

Myspace.com/eshonburgundy

MyGodGivenWrite.Blogspot.com

 -RS

Nicole Fisher is NIC*FISH

December 19th, 2009 | By RS

 
Philadelphia has given us some the most interesting and talented individuals. Author Bebe Moore Campbell, Singer/Poet/Actress Jill Scott, and the legendary Maze & Frankie Beverly (my Mothers will appreciate that shout out). And now we can include designer Nicole Fisher to the list. Born in Philadelphia at a young age Nicole was surrounded by the fashion industry. Due to mentors and family members’ involvement Nicole was taught all aspects of the industry. After pursuing an education at Howard University she enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. It was here she hone her gift for designing original, inventive pieces that would soon give birth to the incomparable NIC*FISH clothing line.

How did you decide the name for your clothing line?

It was named by my god sister, Malene Younglao. She would always call me Nic Fish instead of Nicole. One day we were chatting and she said, “You know, you should name your line NIC*FISH?” I liked her idea, and that’s how the name was born. My other god sister, Shannon Washington further developed the imaging of the brand by designing the NIC*FISH logo.

Briefly, describe a typical work day for Nicole Fisher.

During the week, I wake about 7:30am, and shower, dress & have breakfast. Then I check emails, and then I’m off doing bazillion things at once…. A day could include fabric & trim shopping, pattern-making, draping & cutting new styles, and creating samples for in-store stock, and client orders. I can’t say that my day ends at a specific time, because many nights, I’m working into the wee hours of the morning, which is cool, because I love what I do.

Who are some of your favorite designers?

I’ve never been a big follower of designers, and I rarely follow the latest trends… I consider myself more of an artist – I simply enjoy being creative and making clothing that I love. I am inspired more by visual & performing art, classic film, traveling, and the amazing personal style of my friends. I am also heavily influenced by vintage apparel, and 1970’s silhouettes.

Who are some of your favorite clients?

All of my clients are my favorites! They all bring uniqueness to the table. It’s so amazing to watch a woman transform in the clothing. I often find that the design process is esteem building for most women. It makes them feel beautiful; accentuating what already exists inside. A client can mix & match pieces from the NIC*FISH collection to create innovative looks that work specifically for her personal style. This was one of the main reasons for developing the convertible pieces in the collection. With the Original Convertible Jumpsuit, a client can choose from a variety of pant or skirt silhouettes, and she can transform the jumpsuit to create her own unique look with the infinite tying options of the bodice sashes.

What advice do you have for women concerning fashion, and finding their own style?

It all starts within – Learn to love yourself, and the beauty you’ve been blessed with, inside & out. Learn to love all of your amazing attributes, internally & externally, and learn how to choose clothing that accentuates your very best features. Be true to yourself – wear what you like! There are no rules in self-expression. Treat yourself special, and invest in yourself. When you look & feel good, you exude a confidence that can never be shattered.

What’s your favorite color to wear and why? And Name one fashion item you can’t live without.

My favorite colors are ever changing, depending on my mood. Right now I’m into gold, black, white & gray, as well as pops of bright color like yellow, red & turquoise. Also I love funky accessories & jewelry – the bigger the better, especially earrings, pendants & bangles. And I love all things vintage – I can’t live without vintage apparel.

www.nicfishwomenswear.blogspot.com 

Clients can also shop the collection online at www.nicfish.etsy.com .  And if they are located in the Philadelphia area, select pieces from the collection can be found in Topstitch Boutique and Nestology Arts Collective.

*Check out pics from NIC*FISH clothing line and commercial below

-RS

Throw’d TV Signs Distribution Deal with Rowdy Orbit

December 12th, 2009 | By blameashley

Season 2 on RowdyOrbit.com

The improvised sketch comedy show, Throw’d TV will become an official web series with distribution on www.RowdyOrbit.com . The CEO of Rowdy Orbit, Jonathan Moore, has called Throw’d TV the “Second City for African Americans”. Please tune into RowdyOribit.com on Monday, Dec. 21st with the debut episode of Throw’d TV.

Rowdy Orbit is an online network where filmmakers of color produce original episodic storytelling for the African American, Hispanic, Latino, and Native American viewing audiences.

Throw’d TV & Rowdy Orbit

December 7th, 2009 | By blameashley

In Our Scope: Rowdy Orbit

RowdyOrbit.com is destined to become the “Black Hulu”, with shows featuring and produced by people of color. My personal favorite shows are Exit Strategy and Jaleel White stars in Road to the Altar. We’ll keep you updated on Throw’d TV’s development with Rowdy Orbit, but in the meantime, check out this article where the CEO, Jonathan Moore calls Throw’d TV “Second City” for African Americans *insert me smiling from ear to ear*.

Click here to read, “Beyond “Black Hulu”: Rowdy Orbit’s Ambitious Bid to Build a Web Series Market

Throw’d TV Interview

December 4th, 2009 | By blameashley

Throw’d TV in Allezom Magazine

The December issue of Allezom magazine is out and guess who’s in it? *waits for your response* The answer is Throw’d TV!  Check out our interview and while you’re at it, snag you a copy, today *pretty please with a sugary substance on top*

Click here to get a copy

Music Is Life: Brittany Myree

November 20th, 2009 | By RS

Refreshing and pure describes the beautiful voice of Brittany Myree.  Born and raised in Detroit this songbird has been singing since she was three years-old, music is her life. And it’s evident from her amazing range and impeccable live stage performance proving her talent moves far beyond the booth.  Ms. Myree is definitely an artist you should know.

Who are your influences?
My influences, as far as musical, are numerous. My influences include, Michael Jackson (R.I.P), India.Arie, JoJo, Ella Fitzgerald, and Tweet. There are so many people that influence me and my craft. I cannot list them all.

Motivation is huge for an artist; let the readers know what keeps you motivated.
My family and my passion for singing I plan to sing regardless of where, even if I’m on a cruise ship all my life, I will be singing. My family supports me so much its crazy and I love them and they will never let me down.

At the end of this musical journey what would you like people to remember about you?  What will be your legacy?
I want people to remember me. My music is from the heart. I want people to understand that when they listen to my music that they are listen and taking in a piece of me. It all me, I want people to remember me as being passionate about my music and being able to pull them into the song

Where can we find more of Brittany Myree?

All you have to do is goggle me (Brittany C Myree or Brittany Myree) http://www.youtube.com/brittanycm

http://www.facebook.com/brittanymyree

http://www.myspace.com/brittanymyree

*For Booking: bmyreemusic@gmail.com

–RS

Smoke Brown is a Grown Man

October 28th, 2009 | By blameashley

Grown Man Music Video

Join Smoke Brown (aka Dave from Throw’d TV) on a wonderful “Grown Man” adventure directed by Ashley Patrick.

Artist You Should Know…

October 24th, 2009 | By RS

Hello My Name is: S to da K

Ohio emcee S to da K is determined to make his mark in Hip-Hop. With the upcoming release of his “Overkill” mix tape it’s only a matter of time before S to da K becomes a household name.  Check out the interview below as the  clever emcee speak about his influences, the current state of Hip-Hop and securing his legacy.

How long have you been an emcee?

I’ve been rapping since I was 17. I really got into it during the era of Lloyd Banks, Cassidy and Fabolous. Pretty much my ears were closed off to just NY rap, but recently I became a fan of all rap.

Who are your influences?

Some of my biggest influences in the game are now pioneers from Nas to most recently Joe Buddens.  I’ve heard Drake about a year before his “takeover” and I think he’s really talented as well.

 How do you feel about the current state of Hip Hop?

I never agreed with the whole Hip Hop is dead thing. I think it was smart marketing by Nas but there is no truth in those words.  And with the rise of the super group “Slaughter House” I think Hip Hop is right where it needs to be.

When your music career is said and done, what do you want people to remember about you? What will be your legacy?

When I get my curtain call I want people to remember my  for passion about music, I want them to remember my talent and my vision for each song I’m on. Most importantly I want people to see that you can follow your dreams, you can remain positive through the obstacles and you can remain focused when things seem to get blurry.

Where can people find out more from S to da K?  

If you would like to hear more from me or my team you can go to www.STODAK.com. I use this site as my main outlet for new music, interviews and pictures.