Artist Profile & Music Review: Tevin Dantrell

In this world of copycats, funk fakers, and gimmick artists, Tevin Dantrell strives to be an original. Here at Nogo Street Beat, we love straight hip hop with no chasers. His latest creation “Purple Sky Nights” will drop on November 19^th. After getting a chance to hear his music first hand, I got a chance to talk with Tevin Dantrell myself at the Fountain square Starbucks in Waukegan, IL.

Tell our readers about yourself:

My name is Tevin Jenkins. “Dantrell” is my middle name. I started going by Tevin Dantrell probably about four months ago. I used to go by the name Supastah Gutta and I just grew out of the name because I had that for awhile--since the eight grade. So, I was like, why not go by my birth name?

I’m from uh--

I don’t really like to say I’m from the city, like I claim Chicago because that is where I was born, and that is where my family is, but my whole life, I lived everywhere.

I have lived in North Chicago, Zion, Aurora, Kenosha, Chicago--like all around the Chicagoland area I guess you could say.

I don’t know what else to say about myself, except my birthday just passed on October 16^th.

　

　

Happy Belated Birthday.

　

Thank you, thank you.

Alright, let’s talk about your music. Define your style of hip hop.

　

My style, I don’t know, I guess it’s like a “streetish” style--a street like storytelling style. You know, I don’t like to rap about anything that’s not really going on in my life. Everything is 100% true. And I don’t rap about money cause I don’t have like a lot of money. It’s real, I guess you could say my style is real.

　

　

Where do you get your inspiration from?

　

[I get my inspiration] Usually from music that is out right now. Like some of the top people that I think are out right now like Kendrick Lamar, or Kanye West, or like people who are just real storytellers cause that is what I aspire to be. Like J Cole, or someone like that.

And I think the music itself, the actual beat itself, inspires me probably the most out of everything. Because I listen to the beat first and then write the song around it. Like the mood of it. So that is what inspires me the most--the beat.

　

What sets you apart from the other local artists that maybe out right now? What gives you your unique sound?

　

I think it’s the realness actually. Because a lot people that I’ve actually heard locally talk about stuff that I know they are not really doing. Umm--talking about cars or something. Like I know you don’t drive a lot cars.

I actually heard a song like this before.

I think actually the things that I do, the type of music I choose to do, & the type of beats I actually use is probably different. Like now on this new mixtape, Purple Sky Nights, I do have stuff that can actually bang in the clubs because I want to go perform. And that’s the reason I did those. But if you listen to some of my past mixtapes, it’s more hip hop style and a lot of freestyles with me just telling what is going on at the moment.

So, I think that’s what set me apart: my content and choice of beats is different.

　

　

　

How many mixtapes have you put out there already?

Officially I put out 4 with one on the way. And unofficially, like 8 from when I was younger.





How old were you when you got started though?

I think I was like 8 years old when I started rapping. The first song I ever rapped over was the Ludacris and Germaine Dupri song “Welcome to Atlanta”. That was the first actual beat I ever rapped over.

The first time I was recorded was in 2008, when I was a sophomore in high school with two of my friends Maine and Derrick.

Who else do you listen to, what else do you like other than hip hop music?

I don’t think I have an ear for anything other than hip hop music. Hip hop and R&B, of course. Sometimes I hear a song from a different genre that I like drift off to. But, I don’t have like any other genre that I really like. Nothing I can think of, but there are other songs and other genres that I have actually heard and liked.

　

Explain your song “Suicide Note” . I thought the song was dark, twisted, and interesting way of looking at that subject.

“Suicide Note”, hmm! When I made my last mixtape “Tin Man Heartless”, I was going through a lot of things then. And when I am going through things I can’t really put them out, I can’t talk about them, & I can’t rap about them. So, now that I am out of that, I am in a better place. You know, I was going through some bad stuff. Just stuff going through my head so I thought I would just put it in a song.

Do you recommend hip hop or writing as a way to vent your emotions?

Definitely, I do. It is a really good way to do it. It is a stress release. It’s fun to me, so it relieves a lot a stress. For me, it is way to actually talk about something without actually talking about it. I could say more on a song than I could say in person. I know I’ll put more in a song, and really people still don’t understand that my music is real stuff that I want to say about real people. And people around me, they still don’t get it. They just think it’s music. But, maybe they will. So, I think its good way to vent without people knowing you are venting at the time.

　
It was refreshing to meet an artist that is dedicated to being humble and honest about himself and his craft. The music in Tevin Dantrell's "Purple Sky Nights" is some of the best I've heard in a while. 　

Tevin most definitely has skills as a lyricist, and he definitely is not afraid to take his listeners on an emotional journey with his storytelling.  In Tevin Dantrell's music, we have the harsh reality of a young man who is not afraid to tell us like it is.  My favorite tracks from "Purple Sky Nights" are "Suicide Note","ten times" , & the oddly titled "Bill Nye". 

The album drops November 19th.  PURPLE SKY NIGHTS                                     Check out his FACEBOOK FAN PAGE
  
Trust me, you will love what you hear.

OBJECTS IN THE MIRROR by BLOCKLIFE Mixtape Review

     It has been a while fellow street beat readers, but the beat goes on.  I have been so busy with my own projects that have neglected this blog.  For that, I apologize.

     Right now, I am listening to the latest release from the BMG Blocklife Music Group.  Yes, Blocklife (his last release was Sex and Cereal), has done it again.   His latest mixtape is entitled "Objects In The Mirror", plays like a street hustler's anthem.  With thirteen individual tracks, this mixtape debuted on October 11, 2012. 

The music in Objects in the Mirror is the same kind I have come to expect from Blocklife:  Hardcore, money earning, ego driven, street living & reality spitting--no more, no less.

     Always representing North Chicago and Lake County to the fullest, Blocklife has produced another banger.  The beats sound hard and homemade.  And all the tracks are lyrically tight.  However, don't take my opinion for it, if you like underground hip hop/gangster rap music, if you want to hear something you wouldn't on the radio and if you tired of that bubble gum BS masquerading as rap in the mainstream, get hip to Lake County Illinois' local music scene.  And tune in for more articles right here on NOGOSTREETBEAT before the end of this year.

 

Ya heard! 

 

 

BLOCKLIFE REVERBNATION PAGE

NEW!!! Artist Profile/ Mixtape Review: True P

Right now, many artists in Lake County are on their grinds both illegally and legally, just trying to be heard.  Everyone has to crawl before they can walk up right and call themselves a true creative individual.  Real talk, real hip hop (in this humble bloggers' opinion) is a dying art.  But, it ain't over til the fat lady chokes.

Right now, real hip hop still lives in Lake County, Illinois.  Submitted for your approval:  True P.  True P is a writer, a rapper and a Spoken Word artist from Waukegan, IL.  According to his Reverbnation bio:  "True has perfected the art of writing in depth; describing in full detail the plight of a young, black, self-aware 23 year old.  As well as having the Edge that it takes to create a commercial Banger.(the non-corny type). "

After reading that snippet and listening to the tracks from his latest endeavor  BE TRUE:  VOL 1 (available for download now)  on www.datpiff.com, I had to see the man for myself, sit down and talk to him for real, for real. 

TRUE-P-Be-True-Vol-1-mixtape

So on Tuesday, April 17, at 2:30 pm, I sat down with this maverick young artist and found myself completely captured by the answers he gave to me.

How long have you been writing music as far as hip hop lyrics and how do you balance that with your poetry?

TRUE P:  Well, honestly, I can say I have been writing lyrics since I began writing period.  Because, every poem, every word, every lyric is in turn, my soundtrack,  my life story.  So to add music to it, basically I can say expanded it, you know.  Um, I've been doing this since about sixth grade and I am twenty-three now going on twenty-four.

What is your main inspiration and motivation as far as how your own creativity flows out of you? 

TRUE P:  I would have to say that my main motivation is the truth and good music.  Music with meaning so that people can actually feel it and music that you could say connects universally with everybody. 

What about making music makes you happy as far as your balance, your zeal, your zest for living?

TRUE P:  Honestly, it's a way to vent.  Most definitely, it's a way to bring a finished product from the thoughts that I manufacture.  I don't think like the average person.  I think on levels.  I guess, you could say more intricately than most others would thought or think--multiply that a thousand fold and then I apply that to my records.

Out of all of the things you've created, I know you have a mix tape out right now--what typifies that last statement, what shows your best talent out of all your songs?

TRUE P:  Well, the name of my mix tape/album is called BE TRUE: VOLUME 1.  It's my first solo mix tape, make sure y'all go and grab that, it's very deep.  Um. Honestly, I would say every track.  Not to sound typical, but every track I guess you could say brings out or touches on different sides of me.  Cause, as a multi faceted thinker, you know, you want every side to be portrayed to it's fullest potential, and I believe that every track does it.  Every track on there is my favorite track.  If I could point out the one track that people seem to float the most too, it is track 2 "The Fear".   

And what about making music makes you not so happy?  There is a business aspect to it, and it is hard to be seen and heard, especially when you have something relevant to say.  So what is the toughest part for you about making your own music?

TRUE P:  I have to say the toughest part of manufacturing my own music without major help or backing would just be limited amounts of networking at times.  And being from this area, I could say limited resources and information.  You definitely have to do your research on your own and make sure that you have everything down pat and correct.  Otherwise, you are not going to be viewed as a professional entity, because you are the rapper but at the same time your name is your brand.  So, within building your brand, I guess you could say it's more about increasing the impression that you make on everyone else.  Making sure that you can relate to the people.  What I hate is weak rappers or non lyrical people who don't make music that you can feel.  It's almost a hollow shell where the song should be.  I really don't appreciate that.  (laughs)

Like they did something to you?

TRUE P:  Exactly.

Alright, mainstream or Indie music?  Why should people invest in underground artists?

TRUE P:  Of course, I would have to say Indie Music.  Because you get more variety.  Honestly, if radio wasn't so polarized towards a few different corporate owners, I would say that you probably would hear more music out there on the airwaves.  But in this generation, it is more so via Internet.  So, you basically have a pathway to millions of different artists on a world wide scale.  I believe that more of those artists should get backing from major labels, but it's all a game of puppeteers.  You know, supply and demand, and control.  Most definitely.

Who would I find in your collection of music?  What do you listen to that I would be surprised to hear or see?  Any genre, people might not associate you with?

TRUE P:  Well, I actually listen to every type of music from indie rock to hard rock, to rap to hip hop of course, Soul music, R&B, Gospel, Folk music, and I actually have a few East Indian on my MP3 player.  A few groups that you would be surprised that I listen to are System of a Down, KORN, Sum 41, who else can I honestly say . . .  Well, that's all I can think of on the rock side.  You can definitely listening to something old school like Anita Baker or Toni Braxton, that's a definite.

But, what my favorite albums or artists that you catch me listen to most often would definitely be NAS and JAY Z, BIGGIE, A TRIBE CALLED QUEST, Q-TIP, some J-DILLA, COMMON and I got to top it off with YEAH.  ROSS doing his thing out here.  And OLD WAYNE, shout out to OLD (lil) WAYNE.

Real Talk.  True P lyrically is the  bomb.  The Be True: Volume 1 Mixtape is the bomb from the Intro to the end and rewind that shit again.

But, don't take my word for it.  Be True to your own ear and listen for yourself.  I don't think you will be disappointed.  As for me, I can't wait for volume 2.  However, my favorite tracks are Track 3 "The Truth" "INSPIRATION" (track 8), and track 6 "I Need Your Love featuring Cass".

Visit

http://www.datpiff.com/TRUE-P-Be-True-Vol-1-mixtape.327770.html

for download.

Visit Revebnation to Fan TRUE P at

http://www.reverbnation.com/#!/whostrue

And like his personal Facebook fanpage:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/BE.TRUE.now

G.O.V. Government Officials:Barack Obama, Vote or Else

It is now the year 2012, and Americans live in a poisonous political climate.  A lot of things have people all over this country and the world on edge.  Case in point, it has been 4 years since this nation en mass, spoke as one to elect our first black president, Barack Hussein Obama.  

Right now, in the city of North Chicago, the social and political climate is particularly hostile and it is the opinion of this blogger that it will get worse before it does get better.  People, now more than ever, need to get out and vote.  Nationally as well as locally, our voices must be heard. 

I have always voted.  I felt that it was a right of passage for me as an American of African descent.  I know my history, and I know people bled and died for the simple privilege of checking the box next to a candidates name.  Our history is what it is in this nation.  A lot of it is not pretty.  Most of it is quite ugly, but it is the good, the bad and the ugly times that made America the great nation that it is today.

 These ideas are not lost on the men of G.O.V.  Their latest single is called "Barack Obama, Vote or Else".

This blog was not meant to endorse any political candidate or social point of view.  This blog was and is meant to expose and inform the world about the talents of regular people here in North Chicago, IL.  It would be foolish of this blogger to gloss over this song simply because on the surface it is serves as an endorsement for a political candidate.  However, it is the opinion of this blogger that what this song is, is simply a call to action.

 

That said, I invite all who listen to hip hop music, and all who read this blog, to watch the video and really listen to the lyrics of this song.  Leave your comments below and try to be respectful of each other whether you agree or disagree. 

NOGO STREETBEAT NEW ARTIST: Welcome to the SWAGG KAMP!!!

AND the hits keep coming.  March is the month for local hip hop in Lake County, IL. 

That said, I want everyone who reads and/or follows this blog to take some time out and listen to this video single.

The artist is called Swagg Kamp, and the song is called "Long Time Coming".  The aura is nothing but positive with this groove.  When you striving to get yours, strive to be number 1.


Nuff said.  Follow this group on twitter @SwaggKamp and like their facebook page.

Real talk, I put nothing but the best on this blog from my community and for my community.  So I expect great things from these brothers.  Show them some love, please comment below.

Tweet @SwaggKamp

Hexx "After The Green".Dir By Hilario And Deejay

www.myspace.com/DAHEXXAGON

Check out this groove by one of Waukegan's finest. the man's name is HEXX and he is down with GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS.

I predict that this summer the music will be hot in Lake County.

But, in the meantime, if you love indie rap watch the video and let the artists know what you think.

Leave comments below.
Out.

Get Spellbound by checking this artist out on REVERBNATION.

NOGO STREET BEAT MIXTAPE REVIEW: Sex and Cereal (anyone?)

This month has been tragically slow and nonproductive for me readers and for that I apologize.
I have a day job, however.  And it is a job that I intend to keep.
 

Just celebrated his birthday. 
Here's to Blocklife!

Blocklife Music Group continues it's grind into legendary Lake County music status.  Their latest mixtape, called Sex and Cereal, is up for grabs on  www. soundcloud.com.  I am listening to it as I type this right now. 

For all you hip hop heads, this hot off the presses mixtape is also available for free download.  So, if you like what you hear, (as I do) these 14 tracks are yours to download for nada, zero, zip!  In other words, it's free!  

Right now, I am really feeling the mellow sound track 14 IT AIN'T OVER.  But, fans of the hardcore will be grateful to know this album is in no way soft.  Blocklife goes as hard as they come.

Still I had to ask the produce of the mixtape (Andre "Mr. Blocklife" Johnson), why is this mixtape called "Sex and Cereal"?

He answered:  Sex and cereal are my two favorite things.  They go well together.

Well, I am lactose intolerant.  But I love my local hip hop music.  So go figure, I may have to try something with some lactose free milk and some Wheaties.  

Click here for Sex and Cereal Download

ARTIST PROFILE: G.O.V. "Government Officials"

The gentlemen of G.O.V. always on the grind, always professional.

The Government Officials better know as G.O.V. consists of two Brothers Alfred Wilson “Casualty the King” and Justin Wilson “Point-B the Prince.” The group is from two small towns outside of Chicago called North Chicago and Waukegan better known as the green light go, The group is known for the ground work they have put in their music.   Known as Artists, not "rappers", they have laid tracks and built a brand for themselves in and out of
the state of Illinois, they have done an “Untitled” album which was recorded half in Waukegan and half in Tampa, Florida.

The Groups lead singles have been spun on WGCI radio in Chicago, which include

“Price-Tag” and “Purses”, The group has also made it on DJ Suga D, Plies Official DJs

“Street Heat Vol-6 and Vol-8 CDs” with the single Purses making track 2 on Vol-6.,

afterwards a leak called “25/8 All Day Everyday” was released the CD was a compilation

of all singles and the lead single “2 Of Those” was spun on 95.7 the Beat in Florida, the

song is the theme for Jimmy Jazz in Tampa. The group has also made it on numerous

other mix tapes which include; DJ Green Lanterns “Unsigned Invasion”, DJ Polar Bears

“Kush Cloudz’’ Vol 6, 10, 11 , “DJ FlipCyide and G-Unit Souths “Indie Heat” 1, 2 and

Recession 3, On The FlipCyide Vol-1, Street King III And Slept On Vol-4”, DJ Face

“Definition Of The Rap Game and Collision Course” and DJ Rukkus “New World Order

part 4 and 5.

The Government Officials/G.O.V. is currently working on a new album titled “In The

Middle Of Nowhere”. You can check out their sounds on YouTube @ G.O.V.T.V., Jaye

Wilson on Facebook, datpiff.com/GOV847, Myspace.com/Government Officials 847

And Twitter @GOV847. The group has also been featured in the Ozone Magazines

Memorial Day 2011 Special Edition and will currently be featured in the up and coming

Hood Magazine.

Contact Info: GOV847@GMail.com





 THIS JUST IN:  G.O.V. Government Officials can be heard on the DJ Kapacity/Block Alliance--All Blocks United Mixtape, Volume 3.

Get that ish!!  And get the album In The Middle of NOWHERE when it comes out in the Spring of 2012.

TRACK OF THE MONTH: QuarterKey "GoodNight Lake County I & II" (Diss Track)

Movie Review: MUSICS SON

On Saturday, January 14, 2012, MUSICS SON premiered at the Genessee theatre in Waukegan, IL.  This movie was an original idea from the mind of local writer, director, producer, and actor Cornell Ford.

 

The film MUSICS SON is the story of a family torn apart by tragedy.   Our main character, (played to the fullest by Brandon McGrew), Monte' Ethan witnesses the death of his mother as a young boy and grows into a bitter young black male.  All the social pitfalls & traps that all young black males face within the black community become the reality of Monte' as he grows into a man without the love of his mother and the respect for his father. 

 

Cornell Ford is brilliant as the broken spirited alcoholic Lamar Ethan (aka Money Music), Monte's father.   The death of his wife (played by Sparkle Motion), makes his life spin out of control with guilt, and the loss of his own self respect as well as the respect of his son who blames him for the death of his mother.  While events unfold to determine the course of this young man's life, there is a understory that must be acknowledged.

 

The setting of this tale is North Chicago, Illinois.   It is rare for our community to see our reality rendered in film so boldly and eloquently.  There are many that doubt that NOGO has anything going for it.  But the talent is here and so is the heart.  And yes there is crime, and there are drugs and scandals and even police brutality.  But, North Chicago is also full of hard working legal hustlers, and these are people who are decent and are good.  They pay their taxes and they vote.  They have dreams and aspirations.  In North Chicago, most people want the same thing:  to live in peace, and enjoy the fruits of their own labor.

 

 

It is through strength of character and the love of a good woman (played by Andrea Campbell) that we see a change in Monte' Ethan for the better.   And the viewer learns that while it may be too late for others, as long as there is life there is hope.  No matter what a person's circumstances are they can rise above it.   By the end of the film, the street life doesn't claim Money Music's Son because he mans up and makes up his own mind to walk a knew path. 

 

 I looked forward to seeing the rise of Cornell Ford.  He has put a human face on the reality of North Chicago life.  And that's whats up.

 

 

 

 

    

Some projects are in development right now for 2012

This year will be a busy one for me. I will be staring in my first film "Musics Son" which will be premiering Jan 14th. Soon after i will be releasing my 3rd solo mixtape "Put it on a Scale 2". Im putting together a few visuals for that project as we speak. Also be on the look out for the D. Ladd & Blocklife mixtape, The No Face No Case mixtape, And the Birdy Boyz Album, "Radio Residue"all featuring yours truly.

We are 8 songs in on our up and coming album A Wonderful World. Our first video for Brainstormin can be found on youtube. Our 8 songs can be found on various cites such as: Soundcloud.com, reverbnation.com and hotnewhiphop.com. This album is called wonderful world due to the variety of topics, range is sound and new approaches to delivering a message. The title track listed on the sites is NOT the version that will be on the album. Much love for the support and keep watch for the album releasing in 2012 (no release date). SHOWBIZZNESS!!!!

B Boy for Christ's debut album "A Man Called Christ" is dropping in the Spring of 2012.

Here is some potential artwork for the Album cover.

Cornell Ford: A MAN IN THE MAKING

Known simply as "Corn" to his friends, Cornell Ford is making moves in Lake County and doing it on a positive tip.  His latest project is a full length cinematic feature that will debut at Waukegan's Genesee Theater entitled "Musics Son".   Cornell Ford is not only the director of this movie, but he actually produced, wrote, and stars in his own feature film.

Using Waukegan and North Chicago, Illinois, as a backdrop for the story, Cornell Ford stars as Lamar Ethan aka Money Music who is the father of the film's main character.   The movie debut will take place on January 14, 2012.  On December 27, 2011 at 1:15pm, I sat down with the man in the making to talk about himself and his vision.

Cornell, please tell our readers what is this movie about.

CORNELL:  The name of the movie is called Musics Son and it is a tale about how a young man uses music to cope with his mom's death and his estranged relationship with his father.  Now, he always thought that his father loved music more than his mom.  So, what you see is an instance where a young man grows up always having a grudge against his father because his mother died and always having that grudge because his father loved music more than he loved her.  So, you go from the young man as a boy at like seven or eight years old to his present day life, living in an impoverished neighborhood, a product of his environment, doing what alot of young men at 20, 21 or 22 years old are doing:  rapping, selling drugs, etc.  But, eventually, he sees the light and turns himself around, but there is a a very interesting twist to the whole thing.  Obviously, I won't tell you, but there is an interesting twist as to how things turn around.

Good.  Well, we won't have you dealing out unnecessary plot points at this time.

CORNELL:  Right.

Now, as far as the creative aspects of the film, how did you balance everything?  You have written, produced, directed, edited and acted in this movie.  How did you do all of that?

CORNELL:  It was a tremendous task, I would say.  Really challenging.  It took ten months to write it, first of all, at like 3 or 4 times a week just putting my nose into the paper.  The directing comes easy with the writing.  I mean, the visual is already there.  So, those were kind of the easy parts but, the most difficult part was getting the actors together, getting them to practice, you know, and setting up places to film according to the vision. Things of that nature.  So, I basically, whatever time that I had I just made time to do everything that I could and according to the schedule that I had.  I had deadlines for everything that I was trying to do.  I could just say I was blessed because I didn't  have the means that a normal film maker would have.  I just had to do it with what I had.


What aspect(s) of the business do you like as far as cinema?


CORNELL:  The writing.  The writing is just the most soothing part of it.  Because I can sit in the comfort of my own creative space, and just put my vision on paper the way I see it internally. 
Also, the acting part is fun too because I can become somebody else other than myself.  I can just strip away me and become someone else.  Another interesting part of it is the music.  Adding music to it (to film).  I love music which is where all this started for me.  I got into film making because I was doing music.  So those three things:  the writing which is the most fun, the acting which is probably equally as much fun and the music.  Directing is cool, but you know, sometimes it's a little challenging working with different people. 

Now, I know you grew up in the Waukegan/North Chicago area, but there is a world outside of it.  Are there any movies or actors you grew up watching in TV or film that inspire you today?

CORNELL:  One of my favorite actors is Morgan Freeman.  I love Morgan Freeman.  I remember watching him when he was doing "Electric Company" when I was like six or seven years old. Morgan Freeman is someone who plays some of the most dramatic, suspenseful type roles and I like stuff like that.   Aside from that, one of my favorite movies is "Purple Rain".  I love "Purple Rain".  It had music involved, but the storyline--I loved it.  I loved it from front to back.  The writing in that was really nice to me.  The direction that was taking place, the acting--there again with the acting you had musicians who weren't necessarily actors, but they pulled it off.  So, stuff like that inspires me.    That's the reason why I chose to work with the people that live in North Chicago and not go to Chicago because most of the people that are out here are rappers, singers, poets, and not necessarily all of them have acting experience.  So, that is where I get my inspiration from.

How would you classify this film?


CORNELL:  Drama.  Definitely drama. 

They say there is always drama going on, but do you see yourself doing something different with film in the future.  Maybe a comedy, a horror movie, or a thriller, etc.

CORNELL:  Initially, my first short film was a comedy called "The Beat".  I did it in 2006.  It is actually funny that you asked me that.  The next feature film I do will be a romantic comedy because I want to touch everything.  Like I said, I've done comedy.  I've done suspense thrillers; two of them and they were kind of gangster.   So I've delved in that a little bit.  I want to get into the romantic comedy thing, and then the horror stuff, a few people have asked me do I want to do that.  And that is something I want to try my hand at as well, because it is all in story.  And, to me, it's just another challenge.


Being an African American Independent Film Maker, how do you feel about how black people are portrayed in mainstream film?  Not before, but during the last ten years.

CORNELL:  It's kind of a mixed bag.  Because if you look at the Academy Awards, for example, you have Halle Berry.  She got an Academy Award (R) where she kind of I would say degraded herself with "Monster's Ball".  But, before that, she had done some excellent work, but they didn't give her the recgonition that she deserved for that work until that.  Why did it take that?  

The same with Denzel Washington.  He had to go straight gangster before he got an Academy Award, but the work that he did before that like in "Glory", "Philadelphia", and "The Pelican Brief" all those movies.  Those were really good movies, but he didn't get recognized for those. 

So, I think to some degree Hollywood stereotypes Black people.  But, for us as film makers,  I think we are becoming more conscious of the stories we need to write that portray us in a more positive light.  And, with that, Tyler Perry, he's done a really good job of writing stories that connect us through love, family, and spirituality.  So, I think if we become more conscious in that realm to write those type of stories, write stories that are more positive and uplifting, then we can, ourselves, change that. 

Everybody can be gangster.  It is easy to be thug and gangster.  But, to actually write something that is positive and uplifting, something that can hit home, something that is going on in our communities--which is a big thing--because we see what's going on in our communitites.  White folks, some Latinos, they don't see what is going on in our communities, or in our households. We do.  So, if we start to become more conscious about those (stories) and write about those (stories) then I things would be alot different. 
 

Now, when you have two people, famous and black, in the same industry, the media will try to pit one against the other.  That said, how do you feel about Tyler Perry vs. Spike Lee.


CORNELL:  Pretty much it depends on your outlook of things.  Spike obviously came up through a time where Black people were more conscious in the late 1980s and early 1990s with his some of works and his background was more heritage driven, I can say.  So, when he was making his films it was more conscious driven too.  And, I can say that it was a lot purer from his outlook.  But that was one era. 

But when you move into another era with Tyler Perry. His background was different.  He came up, and everybody now knows his story of how he was molested and he's influenced by his aunt who he says is Medea. So, he's taken that as inspiration like "ok well I'm going to portray my aunt as this woman"    and if you look at it from that way, that's a more humorous side of things which he still is attaching a message, but he wants to put a humorous side to it.  

So, in trying to look at both aspects, both of them are doing excellent at portraying their visions.  I wouldn't say either/or is right, but as far as attacking black masculinity--I would say Tyler Perry gets a little edgey with it, simply because he is going that route, but his purpose behind it is to connect with people via his message and also give them the entertainment value that a movie is supposed to have. 

Where as, Spike Lee, he wants to give you straightforward, no chaser, but give you the entertainment value without risking the integrity of masculinity with the writer and directorial aspect of it.  In a nutshell, Spike Lee is doing work based on a heritage driven, more conscious driven (aspect) without sacrificing the integrity of Black people in the image.  Where as, Tyler Perry is well this is just entertainment. The vision, the inspiration is still there, but I am going to give you the humorous side as well.  That way, it's not so serious.  Spike maybe a little more serious to some people, whereas Tyler Perry is not as serious.  IT is serious, but he just lightens it up a little bit.  So I think that is the difference.  There is really no right or wrong it just depends on how you look at things. 

Well, as for how this blogger looks at things, Black Hollywood could use a man like Cornell Ford in their ranks. Tickets are on sale now for "Musics Son" at Play by Play Records, 1902 Grand Avenue in Waukegan, Illinois for $5.00 dollars.   On January 14, 2012, the tickets will be on sale for $10.00 at the Genesee Theater Box office. 

Before then, on Tuesday, January 3rd, you will be able to hear Cornell talk about the movie "Musics Son" on hometown radio station WKRS 1220 AM.  And then, on Wednesday, January 4th,  between the hours 7:00pm and 9:00pm, Cornell will be interviewed about his feature film.

Now if you want to see the trailer for "Musics Son", look no further than your very own NOGO Street Beat.

Last Thursday Night @ Flanagan's Kareoke Open Mic

Take a sports bar, some slightly inibriated patrons, music and a couple of microphones, and  there is no telling what you may get.  December 2011 has finally come.  Let's do kareoke, NOGO style.

The night was cold, and snow was falling and melting into the ground.  Luckily, I am indoors waiting for the festivities to begin. 

Every Thursday night, Flanagan's at 3201 Buckley Rd has an open mic hosted by Lake Counties very own singing Santa Claus, Curtis Pierre.  Leave you inhibitions at the door kiddies--this open mic is for singers.  It also caters to music lover's of all kinds.  I got there at 8:30 p.m. and the festivities start promptly enough at 9:00 p.m.  The crown was sparse the drinks were a little on the pricey side, but our host was animated, highly motivated, and ready to go.

Curtis Pierre's talent has taken him to various places.  He is an award winner of various talent shows and has performed all over the North Shore, including Chicago, Deerfield, and Highland Park.  He has been a feature on the Jerry and Nick show on WKRS Radio 1220 AM during the Christmas holidays. 

Let me be honest, kareoke is not my thing, and from the start of things, I wasn't sure if anything might happen at all.  Curtis seemed hopeful.  But, I wasn't so sure.  A little voice inside my head said, "You're here. Give it a shot."  So I did.  And then the first singer got up to sing at 9:11 p.m.

By 9:18 p.m., Curtis took the mic to sing Kenny Roger's "Through the Years".  The margarita I ordered was beginning to give me heart burn.  However, I was starting to have a good time.

Curtis Pierre's right hand man, Thunder Cat Mac, belted out a nice rendition of the classic carol "Let it Snow, Let it Snow".  And afterwards Curtis envoked the spirit of Cool and the Gang with "Get down on it".  A performance that made others want to sing.

By 9:31 p.m., I was beginning to see that I had misjudged the amount of fun I was having.  If not for the heart burn, I could say that last Thursday night at Flanagan's, I had a complete blast.  You don't have to be able to sing like Curtis is to have a blast.  You just have to be yourself.   That is the point of kareoke: people letting loose and having fun.  There are no Simon Cowells here to bring the mood down.  People can just have fun singing there favorite tune, laughing with each other, or laughing at themselves.

By 9:49 p.m., I am having a good time.  The night goes on.  Songs are sung and drinks are drunk.  People are eating.  And there is no drama.  I like that.

So I am encouraging my fellow blog readers to give this open mic a shot. 

That's FLANAGAN'S GREAT LAKES KAREOKE on THURSDAY NIGHTS from 9PM to 1AM
GIFTS AND PRIZES for BATTLE OF THE SEXES KAREOKE including A STUDIO CONTRACT. 

For more information call or email Curtis Pierre 1 224 532 1834 nuawlinskid@yahoo.com
You can also book Curtis for coporate parties and/or your special events.

 

Book Review: The Bitter and Sweet Around Me by DeVon Nelson

In the beginning of author DeVon Nelson's novel, The Bitter and Sweet Around Me, the reader meets the central protagonist Portia George during a wedding ceremony that would begin her second marriage.  Portia never thought she would ever marry again.  It wasn't "in the script she had written for herself", but things do happen tragically and often unexpectedly in life and Portia's life is no exception.

In "The Bitter and Sweet Around Me", the reader can see facets of themselves in the life and struggles of Portia George.  When her marriage falls apart due to her husband's addiction, the reader is taken on a rough, emotional journey with Portia as she deals with the changes life throws at her.   

The most likable thing about DeVon Nelson's prose, is that it is clear and straight forward.  The reader feels a great connection and an understanding with the protagonist.  That understanding being that happily ever after is only found in fairytales and that with every tragedy life may throw at us, we are the ones who control what direction our life may go.  The choices have always been ours, all it takes is faith and a single step.

Another likable aspect of this novel is that there are no stereotypical Black characters or caricatures of successful African American life.  For example, the relationship between Portia and her best friend Lexie, is an example of perfect sisterhood and trust.  There is no backstabbing or jealousy between them.  They are just two women who know how to navigate the thick and the thin of life together.  In reality, we could all use friends like that or maybe just read DeVon Nelson's "The Bitter and Sweet Around Me" and try to learn by example.

If you would like to read DeVon Nelson's wonderful story of life, love, pain and triumph or learn more about the author, then please visit  http://www.bitterandsweetbook.net/ and read an excerpt from this uplifting and touching novel.

The book is also available on Amazon.com.
        

BVar Musiq: The Path of Righteous Musiq

BVARMusiq is a man who takes his music, his faith and his life seriously.  However, what do we really know about him and his efforts .   I decided to sit down  and converse with the man himself to find out.  What followed is an indepth conversation about faith and music.

What do you think of mainstream Christian music?

It depends on who the artist is and the message that they are bringing to the music because you have alot of mainstream artist who may be in it for the money--or what not.  But, I listen to a couple of mainstreamers--Lecrae, and I don't know if you have heard of the Red Ink Army, Red Ink Army has decent artists.  Also Commissioned by Christ out of Waukegan, IL and my camp "Soldiers 4 Christ" as well.

How long have you been into music, especially gospel music?

All my life, really.  I grew up listening to the music, listening the gospel.   I am a very family orientated person. My family grew up in the church.  I been baptised myself last year on my own.  Cause, when I was young I was forced to do it, but I figured now I know exactly why I am doing it.  So, I went ahead and did it myself again.

How old were you when you did that?

28 years old.

Does mainstream music sometimes diverge from the "original source"?  The "original source" being the Word of God?  And if so, how can one bring it back?

It all it all depends on how you look at it as a person.  Because everybody is reached in a different sort of way.  You know, I really don't listen to a lot of traditional Gospel music.  It doesn't reach me, because really I grew up on hip hop.  So when I listen to a hip hop track it really moves me, it moves my soul.  So, like I said, it really all depends on who you are and how it reaches you as an individual.

How long have you been doing your music?

I actually did my first track when I was twelve or thirteen years old.  It was a hip hop track called "Bubba's Groove".  I did it downstairs with my homeboy Maurice who stays on Greenfield, and he had a studio right there. Isaac Roland, may he rest in peace, stayed upstairs from him and I got hooked up with him and everything.  So, basically, I've been doing musiq for about twenty years now but I have been doing what I call  Messiah Musiq for about 1 1/2 years now.

How important is the music to you as far as it concerns your spiritual walk?

I would certainly have to say 40% of my spiritual walk has to do with the music, 40 % meditating, praying on a daily basis.  20% is just giving the love to other peoples 'cause I can't give it back until I know exactly what I am doing.  SO I say I put 40% in my music as far as listening it and doing it and the other 40% praying and meditating asking God to order my spirit before I get out there with the other 20%.  It may sound like a small percentage but you can only reach so many people anyway.  And I feel like if I don't have what have that I need to give to them then I feel like basically I should not approach anyone if I am not ready.

Some would argue that Hip Hop and Gospel should not be mixed because Hip Hop  is too worldly.  How do you respond to that?

I don't like to mix them together because Hip Hop is it's own religion.  That's how I feel about it.  Hip Hop has its own code.  You got to dress a certain way, you act a certain way.  I don't like to mix the two together.  I basically like to refer to my music as Messiah Musiq or Spiritual Warfare Musiq.  It's basically another way.  Cause we all as African Americans we already have our own style, and we already know how to do music.  I look at as far as this, I don't put Hip Hop in (that argument) period.  It's just another (kind of) poetry, another way to express yourself, express your thoughts while trying to lead people on the right path.

 

If you want to follow BVarMusiq's journey, or you just love the ecletic sound of Messiah Musiq  check him out on Facebook and "like" his fan page BVar-Musiq.  

 

Superb Bar and Grill Monday Night Open Mic

This just in:

Every Monday Night in the city of Zion, Illinois, the place to be at is Superb Grill.  Hosted by Alicia Mays (Amay-sing), this open mic invites the singers and poets in Lake County to come out and celebrate one another in the spirit of creativity.

On Monday, November 7, 2011, it is ladies night for the lovely ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.  There will be "Delta drink specials" all night long.  Amay-sing our host with the most will indeed be on the grind to make sure this night starts on time, no exceptions.

Sign in for the open mic is at 8:30 pm and the open mic starts at 9:00 pm SHARP!

The Superb Grill is a great place for food, fun, & social events.  
The Superb Grill is located at 3077 Sheridan Rd in Zion, Illinois.  There is no fee for performers or patrons but the bar is asking for a two drink minimum.

(BBC) BBOY FOR CHRIST

The art and skill of blending faith with hip hop music has been a part of the rap genre since the days of the Sugar Hill Gang. Over the years, the hip hop genre has been peppered with groups like DC Talk, and PID (Preachers in Disguise). These days even secular artists like Kanye West add a religious message to their music (Jesus Walk).

Granted, there have been many arguments made against putting religion in hip hop music. Everything has been said from that’s not real hip hop to the music sounds too worldly for the believer.

Like all poetry, hip hop comes from the heart. Christian rap is no different. At the center of the music is the message and the purpose of the artist is to get that message out.  Over a series of weeks, I corresponded with a Christian hip hop artist who goes by the name of BBC B-Boy for Christ. Here is some of what he had to say about himself and his music.
How did you come up with name BBC B-Boy for Christ? 
I have always been into hip hop. Since I was 7. I loved the whole culture, the graffiti, djing, breaking and of course rapping. It means break boy because of break dancing but it expanded into all things hip hop. That’s b-boying. I’m gonna always be a b-boy, but now when I do it, its to glorify Jesus. B-boys were rebels so was Jesus. In a sense, being a Christian is pretty rebellious.


Your music has an old school sound to it that real hip hop heads can appreciate, but your message in your music has a biblical basis. Some would still argue that you can't mix a secular sound with the gospel. How do you respond to that?
I think when you go the Kirk Franklin route, using old secular songs as gospel songs, like Stomp, is when it gets cloudy. People use to get high to George Clinton. So when Stomp first came out we're all like hey that’s One Nation Under A Groove! There is a certain spirit there. Your singing gospel over a song people use to or still get high too. Just like when Christian rappers do a mixtape and rap over a Kanye or Lil Wayne beat. If you go perform it and the people in the crowd only hear the Lil Wayne song and not the message that your trying to give out. So to me when you mix secular and God in that sense, it gets cloudy. But as far as rapping the gospel, its a form of ministry. Just like praise dancing, spoken word preaching, its all ministry. We're not ministers by any means, but this is ministry and this is our way of doing it. We just want to bring Christ to the forefront.
When people hear your music what is the main thing you want them to take from it?

Christ. See Christ and want to know more about him. I want people to not be afraid to love him and show him PDA. People will defend the lyrics and actions of their favorite rapper and question if God is real or if the bible is a true story. Jesus is real, he's coming back, deal with it and get right or get left behind.
Who do you listen to when you are not recording your own music?
I love the Red Ink Army. Yaves the Street Pastor, Bizzle, Mouthpiece, there’s so many. I still listen to old R&B like Stevie Wonder and Frankie Beverly. But mainly its other Christian mc's and I also listen to CD's of my Bishop's messages from random services.

You listen to "Champion" a song by BBC by clicking this link.

Follow B Boy for Christ on Facebook.  Also check out more of his music and fan him on Reverbnation:

BBoy 4 Christ

ACE KOON INTERVIEW:on the Tupac Shakur Bio pic

Ace Koon, aka Fury aka the next potential Tupac Shakur, describe your place in the pantheon of Lake County, IL local artists.  Who are you?
Well um, I pride myself as being the highest selling rap artist in Lake County history.
I've got 33,000 units sold, that is hand to hand sales in the streets.   I've got 16 releases out, which was done in a matter of 5 years--  My philosophy is to try to work the streets, and get out and meet the people.  And network.






What does it mean for you yourself to try out for such a coveted role? 

Well, it means a great deal to me.  I feel like he laid his life down for the have nots who have been struggling.  I've been in that position before and I still am in that position.  He is the most influential person in my life. Period.  It means a great deal to me to be able to audition and give some kind of just due to his legacy.




Who was Tupac Shakur to you?  Describe Tupac in one word to you.



In one word, he was an outlaw.  But it is hard to describe him in one word.  He was an educated out law.  As far as like his music, he was extremely talented.  He a had a vengeful side to him to if he felt like he was crossed.  But, on a more positive note, he would vouch or go to battle for people who were less fortunate.  

He ultamitely lost his life going to battle for people who didn't really have anything.  He had a political voice.  He would say things that a lot of people didn't reallly want to hear.  Especially coming from him with his background and his family, the Shakurs, and their affiliations with the Black Panthers.  They were in direct contest with the government.

I can't really sum him up in one word, but he was for sure something to talk about. And definatley something to make a bio pic about.



Why do you think you should be the one to play Tupac Shakur?


I feel like I've been kind of practicing for this role my whole life.  I been studying him.  This was before, even before his demise.  I didn't know this was going to happen to him.  It just seemed like we had so much in common and which I am sure like the other auditioners might feel the same way.

But like with me, my philosophy is I want to take all the small details of Tupac Shakur and bring to the front burner.  All the small details.  The way he moved his hands, the emphasis he used when spoke, more of his mannerisms --just all the small details.  It's not going to be what the media's take of him was.



Why don’t we as a community have each others back here in Lake County?


Lake County is a rough one.  I've tried to unify and tried to bring other artist together.  A lot of artists out here, they know what I do out here and they know my accomplishments.  I don't really get too much credit, you know what I'm saying, as much a deserve from the other artists.  And that is fine, it ain't really a big deal to me.  As long as I got the consumer, and the consumer knows what I do.

As far as Lake County, it is tough to get love from artists because I believe everyone just wants to be that number one guy.  In the south, in Atlanta, where you have one artist that everyone jumps on his bandwagon, rides the wave and supports him.  And then everybody flourishes. And then he comes back and breaks bread with everybody and then it's the next cats turn.  

That kind of mentality is not reallly cultivated up North, in the area where we are, but I feel like once we get to a point when we keep running up against a brick wall and we can't bust nothing open. we are going to finally end up learning and becoming more accessible to positive things like that.

What is your favorite Tupac song?
There's so many.  I would probably have to say, "Street Thang". It was on a posthumous album that was released after his death.  I also liked "Thug Style" too.  

Do you have any advice for anyone who is trying to make it in the entertainment industry?
Well, one keynote is that if you really, really, want to do this you can't just come in there and half assed do this stuff.  Move units to the streets.   You have to get out in the streets and meet people. You have to campaign as if this was politics.  And if you are afraid to get out and sell your music than this is not a game for you then.  This the music game, an industry. 

Alot of artist out here are getting credit for making good songs.  I have umpteen good songs.  It takes more than that.  You have to take your good songs and go to the streets.  You have to campaign for it, it is like a 'ghetto election'.



If you get this role, the role of Tupac Shakur, what will it mean to you? It would mean the whole world to me.  I just want his legacy portrayed the right way.  I think his legacy will be in the right hands with me.  I just want to give him just due efforts.  I've been studying him every night ever since I found out the auditions.  I am not doing this for no pay off or nothing like that. I know I have a whole region or area that is counting on me to do things that they may not be able to do at the time.


Why do you contine to rap and will you continue to rap once this period in your life is over?

To be honest with you, I never really wanted to rap or be a rapper.  After the death of Tupac, I felt like the powers that be that don't really understand the urban sector or life what we go through everyday had won at the time.  It just irked me, and Its like I had to speak up and do something.  I felt like this urgency.  I had to show some type of action.  So, I started to rap.

I always wanted to be an actor.  I felt like if I stepped up and if I rapped and made a voice for myself, that it would open doors into the acting. 

I never really wanted to be a rapper.  Once I do get the role, I would probably fall back behind the scenes and help others out with there own endeavors.  But I probably wouldn't rap anymore.