38 Spesh Drops “Gunsmoke” EP

on April 3, 2023 Music add comment

38 SPESH is back in the kitchen.

Spesh, originally known as 38 Special, has been rapping since the early 2000s. In 2006, he appeared on Alive on Arrival, a mixtape by early supporter and fellow Rochester product DJ Green Lantern. By the end of that decade, Spesh had headlined a couple Lantern-presented tapes.

After serving time in prison he returned in 2012 with Time Served. This began a constant dispersal of studio projects that continued through the end of 2010. Along with numerous solo releases, Spesh showcased artists on his TCF Music Group label with the Trust Tape series.

He has blessed mics with Benny the Butcher (Cocaine Cowboys and Stabbed & Shot), Joe Blow (In the Mob We Trust), and Kool G Rap (the cross-generational Son of G Rap). Spesh closed out his second decade of activity with a handful of solo tapes, highlighted by A Bullet for Every Heathen.

Named after his strain of weed, Spesh comes with that music that will get you high.

GUNSMOKE – 38 SPESH

The 8 track EP has features from Ransom, Che Noir, the late Fred the Godson, Flee Lord, and Klass Murda. On top of his own production, Spesh is also rocking over beats by Harry Fraud, Rain910 & TrickyTrippz.

Click the play button below and add Gunsmoke wherever you get music. Stay tuned for a project from Spesh and Conway the Machine in the near future.

BODY OF WORK

Some of the grimmest and lucid street tales from post-2000 New York state underground have been spun by 38 Spesh. A boom-bap disciple with over two dozen solo and collaborative projects. Time Served (2012), Stabbed & Shot (2018), A Bullet for Every Heathen (2019), and 7 Shots (2022).

He’s worked closely with fellow Upstate natives such as Benny the Butcher and Che Noir, and has recorded with influences including Kool G Rap, Ghostface Killah, and DJ Premier.

Especially prolific in 2020, Spesh was behind at least ten titles that year alone, teaming with the likes of Che Noir and Planet Asia for numerous duo projects, and offering solo releases ranging from the instrumental set Speshal Blends to Interstate 38.

Spesh linked again with Benny the Butcher for Trust the Sopranos in 2021, and the next year issued the solo 7 Shots.

FOLLOW 38SPESH ON INSTAGRAM @IAMSPESH

#GetSOM via @2offishall & check out more emerging artists by clicking here.

Felicia’s Madcap Podcast: Troop talks about their new single “Lady In My Life”

on March 31, 2023 Artist Interviews Podcasts add comment

On March 30th at 7 pm CST, I had the pleasure to interview TROOP. The legendary R&B group which consisted of five black young American all male singing group from Pasadena, California. Troop had earned three #1 singles and ten singles that were top 10 for weeks on Billboard. Their achievements have earned them five albums that included three certified gold and one certified platinum album.

THE MEANING BEHIND TROOP

TROOP stood for something more than just a group but actual meaning. Total Respect Of Other People. The group is most well known and respected for its record-breaking number of R&B hits including the cover versions of the songs “All I Do Is Think of You” and “Sweet November”, originally performed by all-time singers The Jackson 5 and The Deele, respectively.

The original song “Spread My Wings” also took off as a number-one hit in during their career.

Starting in the 1980s, after winning on a televised lip singing talent show called “Puttin’ on the Hits,” the group had begun to earn interest from record labels.

Troop was a group created by Rodney Benford with childhood friends Steve Russell, Allen McNeil, John Harreld, and Reggie Warren, whom all eventually signed with Atlantic Records. Troop released their single “Mamacita” from the groups album in 1988. “Mamacita” had gone as high as Number 2 on the Billboard’s R&B Chart.

BODY OF WORK

“Spread My Wings” and “All I Do Is Think of You” (a Jackson 5 cover) were all singles from the album Attitude. Hitting number one charts and remained in the top 10 for several weeks. Attitude went platinum in 1990.

In 1992 Deepa was released, resulting in the single “Sweet November” hitting number one on Billboard. The group doubled back from Deepa with two more albums, A Lil’ Sumpin’ Sumpin’ (1994) and Mayday (1998).

After releasing Mayday in 98, Troop took a break to rebuild, redirect, and refocus on other work behind
the scenes. From writing and producing projects, collaborations and other endeavors it helped to shape the men they are today.

In 2004, Troop reconnected and begun touring the country while finishing up their sixth album. Since returning, they’ve headlined several shows and also shared performances with other artists they toured with in the past. Artists like Boyz II Men, Brian McKnight, Keith Sweat, Silk, Mario and Jon B.

NATIONAL ACCLAIM

Troop was showcased on The Late Show with David Letterman, Train and It’s Showtime at the Apollo. Troop made an appearance on the feature film New Jack City, singing a cappella while participating in a soundtrack with Queen Latifah and Gerald Levert. Producing remarkable covers of The O’Jays’ “For the Love of Money” and Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City”.

In October 2006 “Troop” collaborated with “The Mixx” radio station, becoming the root the group and its growth. Russell is the singing voices of several characters, among them doo-wop singer Little Albert and the five brothers who make up the Jackson 5 pastiche (The Campbell Connection) in the 2006 film version of the Broadway musical Dreamgirls.

Steve Russell also wrote “Take You Down” for Chris Brown, “No Air” for Jordin Sparks, and the Grammy Award-winning “Invisible” for Jennifer Hudson. In February 2010 he released his solo CD titled So Random which became the first release from his label Motel Music Media in January 2010.

Allen McNeil released his sophomore solo album Send for Me in November 2011 . Allen has also stepped into the role of an activist. In 2014, John “Jon Jon” Harreld announced that he was dedicating his time to working on a solo project and later released a single covering Luther Vandross “Never Too Much“, which is also in connection with this new project. Unfortunately, Reggie Warren passed away on March 14, 2021, after an illness that he fought over time, He was 52 at the time.

For more information, you watch the interview live on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/groups/835960914280790/

**#GetSOM via** @madcappodcast & check out more of the site by clicking here.

Straight Official Sit Downs: Angel Faye Russell

on February 28, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

ANGEL FAYE RUSSELL is an up and coming artist that got in our hot seat for this edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. @klassikceo served up the questions and the vibe between the two was dope! Check out their one-on-one down below and click here for more editions of emerging artists on Straight Official Sit Downs!

Q&A WITH ANGEL FAYE RUSSELL

What is your name? Where are you from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

My name is Angel Faye Russell and I was born in Montgomery, AL. I was raised on “Strong Island” Long Island in the Suburban part of New York. My mama said I started singing when I was about three years old. I would watch 106 and
Park with AJ and Free . After I saw it, I pictured myself singing on the show. There was no turning back after that.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

Betty Wright, Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Beyonce’, and Mary J Blige are some of the artists who inspire me. Their lyrics relate to things that happen every day in life. I like that concept.

How would you describe your sound?

My sound is a mixture of Hip-Hop beats, Southern Soul music and Blues type lyrics that usually tell a story. I think it is similar to Mary J. Beyonce’ or Lauryn Hill.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

I might hear someone say a phrase like “I know you miss me”. “Imma make a man outta you” or “You’re my baby boo” and turn it into a hook for a song. I will play around with some beats, have some lyrics that tell a story and try to put it together.

What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?

Mary J Blige, Alicia Keys, KEM or BabyFace to name a few.

People can take a lot of things from you, but they can never take away your dreams. I’m still dreaming.
Angel Faye Russell

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

I would like to thank God for people like yourself, my management team Joe Mason and Vincent Berry.
My fans whom I consider to be my extended family and everyone in the music industry who supports Angel Faye Russell music.

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the best talent/skill you have that most people don’t know about?

I write my own music and lyrics and I can play my music on the keyboards.

What would you be doing right now if you weren’t doing music?

That’s a good question because I’ve been performing for a while. I guess I would be working with bands or someone else doing music.

Who are some artists/people you admire and why?

I have much respect for Betty Wright, LGBTQ and all female artist in the music industry. All female and LGBTQ
artists face different challenges in the industry that force us to work twice as hard to receive the recognition that our male artist would receive.

Don’t get me wrong, I am straight, but I believe it’s more challenging to be successful with these two groups of people.

IN CLOSING

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

If I had it my way, I would love to see Southern Soul Music added as a genre on the music charts and at the Grammys. I am actually working with a board member on the Grammy Voting Committee in California right now to try and make that a reality.

What’s next for you, where would you like to see yourself in the next year?

I am scheduled to perform at many venues this year. My ultimate goal for next year is to write a song for or have a major artist perform one of my previously recorded songs. I would also like to perform overseas.

What is your social media? How can people get in contact with you?

My FB link-https://www.facebook.com/ANGELFAYE77 IG link-https://www.instagram.com/angelfaye77/, Twitter link-https://twitter.com/ANGEL5245, YouTube link-
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9iWR7nDWWTZpy1tAu4BMMA

SOMag Presents The Fleet Files With Fleet DJs: Thee Inkredible DJ Klasik | @djklasik504

on February 15, 2023 Interviews TenthLetterMedia The Fleet Files add comment

For over two decades, the fleet dj’s has grown from a small crew to a proficient coalition with over 500 members and counting. since 2001, THE WORLDWIDE FLEET DJ’s has changed the lives of both its members and the entertainment industry they have thrived in.

These are the members. These are Their Stories. THESE ARE “THE FLEET FILES”

Name: THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

FLeet DJ Since: 2021

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Region: SOUTH REGION/Louisiana Fleet DJ’s

WHO IS THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK?

THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK is one of the newest members of The Worldwide Fleet DJs. Even before he joined the coalition in 2021, the concept of music and entertainment was instilled in him from a young age. Having a father who was also a DJ was a huge plus, and since the age of five he’s been connected to the culture.

I asked him what made him decide that this was the path you needed to take. He replied, “It’s been my passion since my teenage years. My love of music and rocking the crowd is what convinced me to become a DJ.” It’s why he is also known as “Your Neighborhood Vybe Pusha.”

Becoming a member of Fleet came by chance for Klasik. Rayshad Rogers was a student at JSU who would do weekly house parties as a hobby. He took his shot saying, “I saw that one of my friends from JSU was a member. I did my research on it and made the best decision in my DJ career so far.”

I’m Your Neighborhood Vybe Pusha.
THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

GAME-CHANGING DECISION

COVID-19 was life-changing for all of us and in DJ Klasik’s case, the hobby would grow into something more. “I realized that life was extremely short and it was time to get into DJing. Get back into what I love.” It was then he founded 3Kingz Entertainment, LLC which was named after his mother’s three sons.

Klasik would join the Louisiana chapter of Fleet in 2021 and make moves quickly. After attending the annual Fleet DJs Music Conference last year, he would secure the Tre Boogie Rookie of the Year award. Soon after, he would be promoted to State Manager of the Louisiana chapter of Fleet!

Through Gumbeaux Radio on the Fleet Radio Network he rocks the airwaves with his blend of Hip-Hop and R&B. When I asked him how he finds inspiration to DJ, he spoke on his passion and partners in crime. “Besides my love of music there are a few DJs that inspire me. DJ Lil Walt, DJ P-Money and DJ Ill Nino to name a few.”

Consistency in key. Don’t give up when told ‘no’ because this industry is something you have to consistently work at.
THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

IN CONCLUSION

I had to ask Klasik how he came up with his name. Most of the Fleet DJ’s have a unique story behind their name. “When I was in high school I was in an R&B group. Each of us had nicknames and mine was Klasik (Classic). I grew up in my grandparents house listening to classic Hip-Hop and R&B.”

He continued, “Now my name is THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK with the inkredible part for my favorite comic book character (The Incredible Hulk). I am THEE NEIGHBORHOOD VYBE PUSHA. That’s how they call the dope man (pusher man) and I provide the vybe for my audience.”

You can follow DJ Klasik on all social media platforms at @djklasik504. Tune in to the Fleet Radio Network to catch him on Wednesdays at 10pm EST and Sundays at 11pm EST on Gumbeaux Radio by downloading the Fleet DJ app.

I gave him the floor to shout out who he wanted. “Shout out to my wife Quinnel Rogers. Thank you for being my ongoing support system. To my team at Louisiana Fleet DJs, 3Kingz Entertainment LLC & my mama for birthing this greatness!”

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & check out more of The Fleet Files by clicking here.

The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision | CarlaG

on February 8, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to the Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chops it up with a purpose. CarlaG is a talented, energetic artist from the chi, that’s setting the tone for 2023.

Q&A WITH CarlaG

Dj Gea: Let our readers know where you’re from and how the city you lived in motivate and push you?

CarlaG: Iam from the south side of Chicago, wild hundreds to be exact. The south side of Chicago is considered to have the highest concentration of black people living in poverty in one area. That alone keeps me motivated because I want different. I want to be the one to make it and give those same people hope that they can do the same.

How did you get started in music? what was it about music that caught your attention?

My mom and my dad use to rap in the underground music scene in Chicago in the late 90’s/ early 2000’s so I’ve always been around music. The one thing that caught my attention with music is being able to express myself. I found music to be my outlet.

Where did the name CarlaG come from?

CarlaG is my nickname that a childhood friend gave me and it kind of just stuck.

I can be whichever part of me I want to be on songs.
CarlaG

SHIFTING GEARS

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I’ve been taking music seriously for about 3 1/2 years. My biggest accomplishment so far would have to be performing at “Smurkchella” and opening up for Lil Durk.

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing?

For me originality has always been super important. I feel like it’s easy to get caught up in everybody’s sound to be liked by fans. My originality and energy stands out the most!

How do you plan to set the tone in 2023?

In 2023 I plan to set the tone by staying consistent by showing my fan base how versatile I can be.

MUSIC IN CarlaG’s WORDS

What is your style of music?

My style of music is like a modern day Chicago Foxy Brown/Lil Kim.

What’s your process to writing a song?

When I’m writing a song 9 times out of 10 I’m in my car. I always have the instrumental on repeat blasting and I just start freestyling. Once I come up with a hook I just go from there.

How do you feel about performing?

I’ve been performing live for the past 3 years. Over the past couple years my stage presence and performance has tremendously improved. I’m confident that I can rock any arena or stadium by myself.

I’m inspired to be more transparent in music. I always make club songs, but this year I plan to challenge myself with different sounds of music.
CarlaG

What single are you pushing now? Tell us about it.

I have two singles I’m pushing right now titled Freak Heaux and Yo Birthday. Both songs I wrote in my car just vibing out to instrumentals. @BallOnDaBeat produced Freak Heaux and @JonnyYayo77 produced Yo Birthday. Both songs have visuals out right now available on YouTube (@TheOfficialCarlaG)

IN CLOSING

So besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

Outside of music I am an entrepreneur and teacher. I just recently started in the transportation industry. I also have a lingerie/clothing line.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?

In the next 3-5 years I see myself at the Grammys, all of the award shows and just being one of the main faces in music from Chicago. I plan to be the new hot topic in the music industry.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you?

You can find me on all social media @crazyyassgirl and also on YouTube @TheOfficialCarlaG

The Watchlist: Conversation With A Vision | Shani Shanell

on February 6, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chop’s it up with a purpose. SHANI SHANELL is a songstress that’s singing her way into our hearts.

Q&A WITH SHANI SHANELL

DJ GEA: Let our readers know where you’re from and how the city you lived in motivated and pushed you?

Shani Shanell: I’m from the country, a little town called New Iberia, Louisiana. Where I’m from you have to dream big so you don’t have that small town mentality. So being where I’m from motivated me by simply being the community that it is and i knew i had folks watching and routing for me even if they didn’t say it or show it.

How did you get started in music? What was it about music that caught your attention?

I’ve always loved music and it all begin at church, and to this day you still hear me singing on sunday. I went through a lot at a young age so writing songs in the 3rd grade and singing was my escape. I really believe God gave me music to help me stay sane.

Where did the name come from?

Well my real name is Shaniqua Shanell, so I went ahead and took the Qua off and shortened it up and Shani Shanell was born.

When you know you are destined for greatness you just know.
Shani Shanell

SHIFTING GEARS

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I’ve been creating music since 2007. I started to take it serious about 4 years ago. I believe my biggest accomplishment so far was getting a song placed in a movie called Clout and being able to tour last year.

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing?

I bring me! I’m not like anybody else, my personality is lit and my music feels good. I’m uplifting women and men, while making people think about love again, with a fresh sound that has a 90s RNB flair.

In 2023 how do you plan to set the tone?
Simply by being seen. I plan to be in all the places where the moves is being made and drop plenty visuals. The unreleased music I have right now is out of this world and I want to make sure I allow people to not only feel my words, but see what I’m saying.

It uplifts, makes folks want to be in love, and it also expresses relatable topics.
Shani Shanell

MUSIC IN SHANI’S WORDS

Describe your style of music?

I really sing whatever God gives me but if I have to put a name on it, I’d call it R&B with a real uniqueness. I take words very seriously, so whatever I’m talking about in these songs can’t just sound good, it has to make sense and it has to be a groove.

What’s your process to writing a song?
You know it depends, Sometimes they come quick and sometimes it takes days. But the first step is making sure God and I are aligned and then the next step is making sure the beat is dope. Then magic just happens.

What are some things you inspire to do with your music?
My main goals is to give God all the glory, create timeless music and help people love love again. It’s simple but it’s real.

Have you had any live shows and if so tell me about your favorite performance?
Yes I actually did a lot of performing last year. My favorite may have been my performance at The Collard Green Festival in Atlanta. The stage was so big and I think at that moment it was stamped, that I really wanted this.

What single are you pushing now? Tell us more about it.
I am currently pushing my single called All You Need. This one of them songs that took no time to write. It’s like God was singing the lyrics in my ear and I was just writing them down. It’s produced by Nino Beige. A visual is on the way. Will be out in the next coming weeks.

IN CLOSING

So besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

I have a couple things in the works. I’m not at liberty to speak on them now because they are in the beginning stages and I like to talk about stuff when it’s at the stage where nobody can talk down on it because it’s done. However I can say be on the look out for merchandise and my YouTube channel.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?
I see myself flourishing in my creative career and effectively giving back and helping others. Have music out that will stand the test of time and be completely happy doing my job because it’s not really a job to me. It more like life.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you

The best way to get in contact with me is by following on Instagram at @_shanishanell_ or by clicking this link and that way they can follow all my social media outlets and check out this dope music. @shanishanell | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/shanishanell?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=5d6f1fa2-537d-4ca0-be68-9f8811a7a75e)

Ace Infiniti Chops It Up With DJ Pressure

on February 6, 2023 Artist add comment

ACE INFINITI is a well-known Hip Hop artist from Knoxville, TN, whose style comes across very unique with more west coast and southern twist. He will be live on 02/07 @ 7 pm on Felicia’s Madcap Show steaming on all social media platforms.

You can follow Ace Infiniti on Facebook: Ace Infiniti, Instagram as Ace Infiniti, and on YouTube @infinitemusictv7828. He has a soon-to-be newly released EP which is a tribute to Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary and Ace Infiniti’s 6th musical project. Ace released 2 singles in 2022 Ol’ Skool Party and Take It Off.

Ace also believes that he has a calling that is far greater than music. His goals are to incorporate that into his future endeavors. Ace is an entrepreneur and an owner of 3 different branches of his contracting business.

He recently stated, “I want to motivate and inspire people that they can achieve their goals and dreams despite the circumstances that life may have subjected them to”.

Join Felcia’s Madcap Podcast on IG: DJPressure_FeliciasMadcap, Facebook: Felicia’s Madcap Podcast NG, and Youtube: Felicia’s Madcap Podcast to stay connected and updated on the latest interviews.

**#GetSOM via** @madcappodcast & check out more emerging artists by clicking here.

The Watchlist: Conversation with a Vision | DO$E

on February 2, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chops it up with a purpose. DO$E is an trendsetting artist who is calling next in music and fashion.

Q&A WITH DO$E

DJ GEA: Let our readers know where you’re from & how did the city you lived in motivate you and push you?

DO$E: I’m from Dallas, Tx. I love being from Texas, I think it’s nothing like a great rapper from the south. It’s something about that southern accent and swag.

How did you get started in music? What was it about music that caught your attention?

I’ve always been a writer and I’ve always loved music. I wrote a lot of poetry and used to read a lot growing up. I’ve always had a passion for music as long as I can remember and I didn’t start writing raps until I was 18.

Where did the name come from?

My best friend came up with it, I had been going back and forth between a few names and nothing seemed to stick. Soon as she suggested Dose it stuck and has been my name ever since.

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I started writing raps at 18, but I didn’t start recording until I was about 20 years old and my biggest accomplishment so far is reaching 10k views on a video that I released called “Check On It.”

SHIFTING GEARS

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing now?

I don’t want to ride a wave, I want to bring something new, and have my music motivate boss women all over the world. My goal is to bring back music videos that look like movies, and stand out as I get creative with each track and video I release.

In 2023 how do you plan to set the tone?

Consistency. I’ve been making music for about two years now, but I’ve never done so consistently. I feel I’ve taken enough time to duck off and work on my craft and sound. Now I’m ready to elevate and shake the game up with this Dallas swag.

What are some things you inspire to do with your music?

I inspire to be unpredictable. I want to keep my audience on their toes and engaged for a long time. One of the main things I want to do is be creative and think outside of the box for concepts and my work in the future.

LETS TALK MUSIC

Describe your style of music?

I would describe my style of music as one that incorporates wordplay and switching up my flow.

What’s your process for writing a song?

Typically I hear a beat and if I’m drawn to it, I can immediately write to it. When that begins I paint a picture in my head and catch a vibe.

Have you had any live shows and if so tell me about your favorite performance?

I’ve only had one so far. It was for a live contest. I was very nervous, but the crowd and judges received me well and it was an amazing feeling!

What single are you pushing and How did it come about? How long did it take you to write it? Who is the producer?
Is there a visual for the song?

I’m about to release my new single “Twelve” on January 31st. There is a visual coming out that I’m planning to drop in mid-February. I’m very excited to drop the visual, it’s my favorite so far. The song was produced by Migueleazy on Instagram. The song didn’t take long, it came to me naturally once I heard the beat, and 30 minutes later I had a hit on my hands.

IN CLOSING

Besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

I went to school and got a degree in Fashion Design and I put my fashion dreams on hold to focus on my music, but now I plan on revisiting that dream and exploring my clothing line. In every video I’ve posted either I or one of my video vixens are wearing original pieces hand sewn by me.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?

In the next 3-5 years, I see myself finding success within my music and starting my fashion line.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you.

Theonlydose on IG
Dallas Dose for YouTube and Tiktok

The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision | Ms. BÈQUILLE

on January 29, 2023 Interviews add comment

Welcome to The Watchlist: Conversations With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chops it up with a purpose. Ms. BÈQUILLE is an emerging public figure who is staking her claim in the fashion world.

With the initiative of Pharoh Khepri, CEO of Unspoken Model Management, she mapped out a fashion show tour of three major cities. With her drive & direction paired with the organization & event skills, she and her team have created a blueprint for the underdogs. RDB Fashion has been on Buzz TV and RiverCity Live. Jacksonville News has published her twice!

Q&A WITH Ms. BÈQUILLE

DJ GEA: Let our readers know where you’re from and how did the city where you lived motivate and push you?

Ms. BÈQUILLE: . I am from Queens NY & motivation is the reason why you act or behave in a certain way. It’s the driving force that pushes you to take action, in spite of your fear or lack thereof.

Growing up in New York City where everything is fast paced, talent everywhere and everyone is trying to make it had a huge effect on my mindset. Watching people hustle on the subways, streets or just utilizing any area to their advantage motivated me with the consistency and drive I have today.

What kind of field or business do you work in and how did you get started?

I am in the fashion industry producing fashion shows. I’ve always had a love for fashion. The conception of RDB Fashion Show stemmed with a conversation with my late father, Donald Crutch. I always had a dream of my brand, (Béquille) being attached to a fashion show.

The fashion show debuted in Queens, New York in September of 2017. It was a sold out event that had patrons standing along the walls and a line around the corner. At this point, I was watching my dreams come to fruition!

Ms. BÈQUILLE’s VISION

So tell me more about RDB Fashion. What goes into an event that you organize?

The production behind this event included a celebrity makeup artist & a celebrity photographer. The global pandemic tried to stop my dream but after meeting Pharoh Khepri Show coordinator RDB picked up in Jacksonville Florida with another sold-out event, on May 21st, 2021.

With celebrity guest designer, Isaac Spry who tailored customs from the blockbuster, Black Panther as well as the hit TV series The Walking Dead. This ignited a fire within me to continue on with the RDB Fashion Show and take it on the road.

Did you experience any setbacks in your journey?

In January 2022 Pharoh Khepri passed away which was a very emotional time for RDB . We decided to continue to keep the vision alive and CEO Tiara Crutch & Marcus McNeil, CEO of Xclusive Entertainment decided to join forces. Tiara & Marcus bonded through grieving the lost of their dear friend. Xclusive Entertainment was founded by Marcus McNeil. Born in Memphis, Tennessee.

What is the endgame of RDB Fashion?

RDB was created to bring awareness to talent & businesses who weren’t getting the exposure & opportunities needed. “We are for the underdogs!” RDB means “concrete rose” in English! We want to be the example of how no matter your environment or struggles you can still come out stronger & amazing.

SHIFTING GEARS

What has been your favorite part of doing what you do?

Being able to bring opportunities for people .

How long have you been in business ? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I’ve been in business five years. Our biggest accomplishment is how well we continue to expand each year and attract more interest from people not only in the fashion industry.

Out of all the hats, your wear which is your favorite?

My favorite hat to wear is my mom hat.

In 2023 how do you plan to set the tone?

Many brands fall into the trap of adopting a tone of voice from someone in their industry “should” use. However, your goal should be to stand out so your customers remember you. We plan on setting a different tone.

What is your favorite event you have hosted or attended?

A. I love attending “The Stomp Down” because I enjoy how involved they are in their audience and making sure you have a good time.

Have patience and put out quality. Don’t rush to the outcome without enjoying the process.
Ms. BÈQUILLE’s process on getting to the bag

IN CLOSING

If you could describe you in one word what would you say and why?

I am a motivator. I listen, How do you motivate others without listening to them? The truth is that you’ll never be able to inspire others to action if you’re the one talking all the time. Listening is essential. It shows that you’re interested in what others have to say and you care about their lives. It also allows you to uncover their passions, which you can use to motivate them.

What are some things you inspire to do with your brands?

I inspire to expand by adding a podcast and a magazine.

So besides your business, are there any other ventures you’re currently sewing seeds into?

Yes. I am currently invested into the medical field.

What is something you want or readers to know?

Don’t be afraid to fail! Failing gives you experience. Utilize your failures as stepping stones towards your success. Don’t give up. For every “No” Strive to get five “yes’s.”

Let the people know how to get in contact with you

You can find me on Instagram @ms.bequille and the fashion show on Instagram and Facebook @rdbxclusive

Photo credits : T4Photography, eddension studios, New Lens Photo, Jus am’s photography

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Neika Simone Is Here To Stay

on January 16, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

We got the chance to catch up with R&B soulstress NEIKA SIMONE to get to know her better. We quickly learned why she’s the Queen of the current independent R&B scene.

Q&A WITH NEIKA SIMONE

How Did You Come Up With your Stage Name? Please tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

I’m from Kings Mountain, NC but currently live outside of the Richmond, VA area. My stage name Neika Simone came from trying to figure out if I should use my full first name (Toneika) or shorten it. I always knew I’d use Simone. I’m named after Nina Simone and thought about how Neika was similar to Nina and decided to go with that. I think I’ve always been interested in the music industry, but life didn’t align enough for me to move in that direction until a few years ago.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

My life experiences have inspired what and how I create.

How would you describe your sound?

I think I have a unique sound. My voice is smooth with a quiet strength and full of range.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

I write by either listening to music and allowing lyrics to come to me or either I hear music in my mind, and build the entire song from there. Sometimes I journal to fully explore where I want the song lyrics to go.

What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?

That’s a great question! I love Lalah Hathaway! She would be my hands down first choice! I also love Maysa, Moonchild, Sade, and Kem. I could go on and on. There’s so many great artists out there!

If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?

I’d love to open for Lalah Hathaway or Kem!! That would be amazing!!!

Keep Going. Life throws all kinds of curveballs our way. Keep Going! Things won’t happen when or how you’d like but you’ll get there
Neika Simone’s message to her fans

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the most useless talent you have?

I guess I would say watching movies multiple times. I notice something different each time I watch the movie.

What would you be doing right now, if you weren’t doing music?

I have absolutely no idea! When I was younger I had a strong interest in medicine. I guess I’d probably be a nurse or nurse practitioner.

Who are some artists you admire and why?

The artist who made me fall in love with jazz is Ella Fitzgerald. Her story has always inspired me. One of her famous quotes says “It isn’t where you come from, it’s where you’re going that counts!”

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

I’ve been told to be true to myself. That can be a challenge in this industry. People will try to pull you in different directions. That can be scary because you don’t want to do something that could jeopardize success. Ultimately, remember who you are and be true to that. Being genuine will always shine through.

Remember who you are and be true to that. Being genuine will always shine through
Neika Simone on the best advice that she’s received

IN CLOSING

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I dislike how people will try to take advantage of you. You really have to protect yourself and understand the business of it all. You need people around you who will be honest and will help point you in the right direction.

Congratulations on your latest project this year! Tell Us About It.

Yes, you’re correct! I released music for the first time and it’s been a fun ride! In February, I released an EP titled Beautiful Moments. The project has smooth jazz and R&B soul songs. In addition, I did two songs Picture Perfect and Tell Me that are R&B soul songs.

What’s next for you? Where would you like to see yourself in the next year?

In March I will release a new album called Point of View. I also have performances scheduled throughout the year. I’m looking forward to performing, making music and connections with fans.

What is your social media? How can people get in contact with you?

You can find me on my website at www.neikasimone.com, Instagram @Neika_Simone, Facebook @Neika Simone, TikTok @Neika Simone1, Twitter @Neika Simone

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