Category Archives: FAME

FAME, Music

F.A.M.E NYC Remembers Aaliyah 10 Years Later

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Generally people only remember a day when a significant event happens.  I cannot recall what I was doing on August 25, 1985 or August 25, 1992, but I can recollect exactly what I was doing on the morning of August 26, 2001 when I found out that Aaliyah had died in a plane crash the night before.  I was preparing to celebrate my boyfriend’s (at the time) birthday.  I had recently arrived back from a vacation/pre-birthday trip with my boyfriend to the Bahamas and decided to pay my mom a visit.  Her distressed face instantly wiped the smile from mine.  She asked if I had heard what happened; I said no.  When she told me that Aaliyah had perished in a plane crash in the Bahamas, a place I had just returned from three days ago, I was devastated.  I fell into a depression that only ceased when the events of 9/11 occurred. 

I was 27 at the time and refused to believe that someone so endearing could be gone in such a flash.  I had been rocked by the deaths of artists of my generation before – the deaths of Tupac and Notorious B.I.G.  and the suicide of Kurt Cobain were all sudden.  But their deaths were all violent and one could assert that the lives they led somehow contributed in their demise.  Aaliyah’s death was an accident – something that should never had been and could only be attributed to fate.  At that time, Aaliyah’s death symbolized the extinction of a promise.  Aaliyah’s was just starting to break out – with roles in Romeo Must Die and Queen of the Damned her star was just starting shoot into the stratosphere.  The trio of Aaliyah, Missy Elliot and Timbaland was undeniable.  The futuristic production of Missy and Timbaland mixed with Aaliyah’s melodic soprano vocals added a much needed layer to R&B in the 90s.  Her music reminded me of the songs created by Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder –progressive yet timeless.  Her style was sexy but not slutty.  She exuded a sweetness that was palpable through television screens and radio speakers.  Her sincerity was commendable.  There was no one that was not in love with Aaliyah; her death almost seemed like a cruel joke.  Only there was no punch-line. Her catalog, albeit small, left an impression on R&B that can never be erased.  Dying young, beautiful and full of promise places her in the pantheon of artisans like James Dean, Richie Valens and Buddy Holly. 

It hard to believe that 10 years have passed since Aaliyah’s death – life has served many changes, but since her passing there has remained one constant when it comes to the Princess of R& B, the public’s love for her is everlasting.  Yesterday celebrities and fans alike took to Twitter, Facebook, etc. to express their love and remembrance for Aaliyah and I shall do the same.  Aaliyah, your presence in music is still missed.  Thank you for the music you gave us before you were so abruptly taken away.  May your sweet soprano tone continue to brighten the skies of heaven.

FAMERS here are my Top 3 Aaliyah videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NLUthL6-BU

 

 

Entertainment, FAME

Giving NYC Nightlife What It’s Been Missing

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As the editor of F.A.M.E NYC, I can testify that the phrase, “It’s not work when you love what you do” is true.  But I am not the only one that comprehends this sentiment. It is obvious from the picture above that Isreal Hagan (pictured left) loves his job.  Isreal is the co-founder of A-List Entertainment, a multifaceted marketing company that specializes in nightlife, fashion, nonprofit, brand endorsements, corporate liaisons and advertising.  On the company’s website Isreal says, “I honestly felt like NYC needed a facelift.”   A-List Entertainment has been injecting the life back into NYC nightlife one event at a time.  Their mission is to restore Manhattan as the place to be when it comes to partying.  Judging by the size of the crowds at their events and range of artists that they work with, it will not be long before A-List Entertainment can take their place in the pantheon of legendary promoters.  There is always pure electricity permeating through an A-List Entertainment event and Isreal is the Pied Piper in sunglasses, ensuring that each affair tops the previous one. 

Conquering the NYC party scene is not child’s play – it is a 24-hour hustle.  There is barely time for sleep, but Isreal took a moment to speak with F.A.M.E NYC and shared his thoughts with us about Manhattan nightlife, fashion and his favorite places in the city.

You stated, “I honestly felt like NYC needed a facelift.”  What prompted you to make this statement? 

New York City is supposed to be the Mecca of all things entertainment! Back in the days, way before my time, events had more meaning.  There was a hunger in the artists and the promoters to make as big of a statement as possible. I remember hearing stories of people who actually saw artists like Big Daddy Kane in a bath tub on stage and leaving with a spiritual fulfillment kind of like church [laughs].  And don’t even get me started with the party scene; people don’t even “dance” anymore.

How has A-List Entertainment assisted in giving NYC this facelift?

We are connecting the dots. Recently, we formed partnerships with CEG the company that represents the majority of Pop Culture like Jersey Shore, MTV Real World, etc. We also signed a strategic partnership deal with Buzz PR and their events are legendary! By combining our outlets and working diligently, we are bringing some of the most sought after events NYC has seen in years.

Those who know about NYC Nightlife know that the city is the main culprit in the decline of NYC nightlife.  How do you circumvent issues that some promoters and marketing companies have had with their parties and urban parties in particular?

There is no vision anymore. There are hundreds of nightlife hosts that don’t really understand what it means to host. It’s honestly the promoter’s job to make sure that people have as much fun as possible and that starts with the promoters themselves. I mean hey, take a trip to LA and then tell me what’s wrong with the promoters in NYC.  Furthermore the urban scene is tricky, as a lot of club owners don’t really want a dark crowd in their establishment.  Maybe it’s because statistically urban crowds ring higher bar numbers or maybe it’s the fashion statements they make to become trendsetters.  All jokes aside, business owners need a reality check. The year is 2011, cut the racism.   And promoters stop settling for used up venues to host your “urban event,” instead do something undeniable, contact your celebrity friends, lock in a few performances and get sponsors to back your endeavors. Keyword…sponsors.

If you could hop into a time machine and revisit any era in NYC Nightlife, which would it be?

Take me back to the days of Lotus, Tunnel, Lime-Light (House Heads) Eugene’s, the old Latin Quarters, etc. Speaking of LQs, I remember when the promoters at the time named Sergio Productions started merging crowds putting Latinos with African Americans…talk about hot.

What are the three most important components for producing a great event in Manhattan?

I could answer this question, but then I’d be giving our secrets away.  Just be very unique in your event planning, and be hands on with your Community Board.

 

A-List Entertainment also produces fashion events as well.  Do you guys have anything in the works for September?

We are in talks with a few special major brands! All I can say is Fashion’s Night Out will be a night to remember [smiles].

 Which brands/labels are essential to wear for a night out in NYC?

Well my style is a lot different from everyone else’s [laughs]. I don’t really spend money of the conventional things because I work out [smiles], so I can only suggest what I wear.  First go to American Apparel and get an assortment of deep V-necks, the more color the better, price $25. Then head over to Banana Republic and get a fresh pair of Black Chinos, price $50. Next stop is Alexander McQueen for some high-top Pumas, price $250-$300. Add a summer jacket from Zara or Kenneth Cole and your all set!  Oh and accessories are a must.

Tell me more about Prostar.

Prostar is our way of providing the lost art of A&R. Through our connections with Universal Music Group and CEG, we are able to provide artists with professional development, product endorsements, branding and PR. We also get artists booked all over the country. The harder they work, they harder we work!

What does A-List Entertainment have planned for NYC this summer?

Besides our weekly events, I have taken a special interest in Katra on Friday nights. I have the Heavy Hitter DJ Big Ben, Mickey Factz, MTV’s Charlie B and La Mega making special guest appearances. This summer will be filled with surprise performances and celebrity guest every week.  We also have our hands tied into a few concerts to benefit charities; it’s always good to give back to the community.

Give us five of your favorite places to go in NYC.  They can include restaurants, theatres, museums and places to relax.

 Pinkberry in SoHo.  Don’t knock it till you try it.

American Museum of Natural History.  By far the coolest exhibitions I’ve ever seen.

Prospect Park in Brooklyn.  Take a date here … you can thank me later. 

Dylan’s Candy Shop.  Feels like you’re in the Willy Wonka Movie; try the Ice-cream.

Del Frisco’s.   A local celeb spot with great food. 

To learn more about A-List Entertainment and their services click, http://alistentnyc.com/.

Photo courtesy of Isreal Hagan

FAME, NYC

Pass Me Not –Words of Wisdom from Tonya Kerry

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F.A.M.E NYC was created to not only showcase the city I love, but to feature individuals who are looking for fame in New York City.  During my journey with F.A.M.E NYC, I have met plenty of wonderful, inspiring people.  Tony Kerry, Esq. is one of those people.  Tonya is a relationship strategist and speaker.  She specializes in personal development and relationship success.  With 10 years of experience, Tonya helps others maximize their relationship potential.  She is also the Author of Twelve Secrets to Living a Life You Love and will soon publish, How to Attract an Amazing Man:   Power Principles for Getting the Love You Deserve.  She is happily married and affectionately calls her husband a six foot two sack of sugar!   Many of the people I profile are burgeoning artists.  In this city it can be tough to hold on to your dreams when you are not seeing any results.  Tonya has some great advice for anyone that is working toward a goal and has yet to see their dreams come to fruition.  F.A.M.E NYC would like to share it with all of our FAMERS:

Perhaps God has forgotten I exist.  Sure I want to be successful, but the truth is I’m feeling sad and like a failure.  Everybody else is getting his or her blessing.  But mine?  It keeps passing me by.  Will my time ever come?

If you have ever said these words, don’t give up!  The secret to shaking off those “bluesy” feelings is right in your feet.  That is right.  It is in your feet.  Anytime I have ever felt as if God had forgotten me, I was not moving in the direction of my dreams.  In fact, I was not doing anything at all.  One thing I know for sure, faith without work is dead.

 It is time to take action.  Move your feet and do something.  Do not ask God to order your steps if you are not willing to move your feet.  God does not drop blessings on lazy people.  Bishop TD Jakes preached about the danger of doing nothing.  Take action.  Even if you have to fix it later, do something towards your dream.  Even if you fail, failure is not final; it is an opportunity to fix things.

Here are tips you can implement today:

Set Your Mind

Set your mind that you are getting your blessing.  You can set your mind by watching what you put into it.  Start the first 30 minutes of your day with something positive.  Change the annoying alarm clock by programming it with a positive message.  Wake up and get grateful.  Say, “Thank you Lord,” out loud for something, even if it is for your toes.

Get to Work  

Stop wasting time.  The Quakers say, “Hands to work; hearts to God.”  Do something towards your dream everyday.  Not some days, not most days, every day.  If you want change, you must change.  God is not passing you by:  he never has and never will.  You and I let opportunities pass by.  We are waiting for God, but God is waiting for us.      

George Bernard Shaw said, “The people who get on in this life look for the circumstances they want, and if they cannot find them they make ‘em.”    Jesus took action and fed 5,000.  Moses took action, stretched out his staff and parted the Red Sea.  Gideon took action, blew the trumpet and the walls came tumbling down.   God blesses action. 

So get to work.  Make that phone call, work on your book, go and see that person.  You want big blessings in 2011?  Make some big changes.   Stop passing on the things the Holy Spirit guides you to do.  Ask God to bless the creative process and let the Holy Spirit come alive in you, so the universe can see how amazing you truly are.

By using the tips outlined above, you will get the blessings you seek.  Change your mind about your situation and get up and do something.   The words of the hymn will then ring true:  “Our savior will hear your humble cry, and surely he won’t pass you by.”

To find out more about her speaking and training, please visit www.tonyakerryspeaks.com.   Also be on the look out for Tonya’s seminar How Attract an Amazing Man Seminar, coming soon.

FAME, Fashion

Can’t Buy Me Love

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One of F.A.M.E NYC’s most visited post is the interview I did on model/actor/educator Christian Brown.  And is it any wonder, he is such an awesome piece of eye candy!  Many of you may be wondering what Mr. Brown has been up to.  Recently he starred in an Akademiks webisode. Although he does not get the girl, he looks hot in the clothes.  Check out Christian in akdmks lesson 2.

akdmks lesson 2 – Stars Christian Brown, Seth McTigue and Solanyi Rodriguez  Director: Miguel Aviles

Video courtesy of Christian Brown

To read our original profile on Christian, click https://famenycmagazine.com/2010/11/03/f-a-m-e-nyc-model-profile-2/

FAME, Fashion

American Apothecary’s New Prescription for Fall

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During Fashion Week we get to see a designer’s concept for their collection come to fruition right before our eyes – a one night only performance that will never be replicated again.  This year American Apothecary merged the artistry of ballerinas and skate boarders for their Fall 2011 collection, and on Thursday the fashion rebels with a cause invited members of the press to a private preview in their Midtown galipot for a meet and greet with designer Anastasia Fokina.

There is always a welcoming, family atmosphere present when visiting American Apothecary’s showroom.  It is more like a cool clubhouse than a space that displays fashion.  While sipping on wine and eating an array of delectable cheeses and fruits, members of the press learned American Apothecary’s remedy for autumn is a palette of rich colors which includes, merlot, rust, Dijon, olive, royal blue and aqua.  Printed logo scarves and sweatshirts add depth to a line that takes a closer look at how fashion can suit style, consciousness and art to a T.

Photo and slideshow: F.A.M.E NYC Editor

Arts, FAME

Oz Comes This Way Soon

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March is the season for gusty winds, sort of like the tornado winds that blew Dorothy from Kansas to the mythical Land of Oz.  Fortunately for New Yorkers, Oz has come to us.  French Street Artist Ugly-Kid GUMO will be exhibiting THIS IS OZ-NOTHING MAKES SENSE at the Fountain Art Fair, located on Pier 66, from March 3-6. 

F.A.M.E NYC first introduced this artist to you back in November.  Take a look at the video below to catch a sneak peek of GUMO and the Oz he lives in.

Video courtesy of Marianne Nems, Marianne Nems Gallery New York

FAME

Pamella Roland Fall 2011

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Photos: Courtesy of Pamella Roland
FAME, Fashion

Badgley Mischka Fall 2011

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Photo: Alessandro Viero / GoRunway.com

FAME

Jurassic Park Meets The Odyssey, Dance New Amsterdam Begins Its Winter 2011 Season

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In New York City, as with most cities, dinosaurs can mostly be found in museums and libraries.  Their ravenous existence is now just a tale to be told – bones to be examined and gawked at.  But this winter, Clarinda Mac Low and Jordana Che Toback with the assistance of Dance New Amsterdam has resurrected the Paleolithic reptiles in A dinosaur attacks a lighthouse (Scylla and Charybdis), part of DNA’s SPLICE series and the start of DNA’s winter season.

Created in 2010, the SPLICE series is an innovative, creative collaborative endeavor displaying the unique talents of two artists.  Clarinda Mac Low and Jordana Che Toback are both award-winning choreographers with their own distinct methodology to approaching the vocabulary of dance and performance art.  With SPLICE they debut a duel work as well as individual works.

A dinosaur attacks a lighthouse (Scylla and Charybdis) is a satirical, political multimedia performance piece that exposes the complacency that is destroying our democracy – a fact that most of us are afraid to confront.  Dressed in Sarah Palinesque red suits, Mac Low and Che Toback playfully mill around with the rhetoric displayed during most political campaigns – which can compare to a Broadway production.  Through song and dance they create a cheeky think-piece that will have the mind spinning.  Crush the Pearl Part 1, choreographed by Jordana Che Toback, is a platform that explores the power and sensuality of motion.  Clarinda Mac Low’s Double Public Blunder: Monster-us is an intentional journey into calamity.  Performed by Clarinda Mac Low and Michael DiPietro Double Public Blunder is both uncomfortable and entertaining.

Part bondage, Part orgy and part SNL skit, A dinosaur attacks a lighthouse (Scylla and Charybdis) as well as Mac Low and Che Toback’s other pieces were a worthy effort in expanding the dialogue of movement and the effect it can have on those who view it.  It also sets the bar for what should be an engaging, fascinating 2011 at Dance New Amsterdam and proves that DNA is a beacon for New York City artists looking to express themselves without inhibition.

Photos: Paula Lobo

FAME

Masterpiece in the Making

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In 2000, the idea of the female MC standing on her own was non-exisistent – almost laughable.   It had seemed that the pioneering efforts of Salt & Pepper, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and Lauren Hill were all but forgotten about as female rap artists were relegated to play the sexy side-kick in a hip hop buddy movie literally – only playing a role in a male dominated crew.  Fast forward to the end of 2010 and a female MC’s debut album was one of the most anticipated albums of the year.  Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday garnered platinum status within a month of its release and along with BET’s documentary My Mic Sounds Nice; it appeared that the industry and the world was taking an interest in female rappers once again.  Poised to take the stage and stake her claim on hip hop is Kyah Baby. 

Kyah Baby is a Queens native with a regal vocal delivery that has not forgotten her hip hop roots.  Proof of that is her single titled “L.O.H.H (Ladies of Hip Hop)” which pays homage to all the women who paved the way for the female rappers of today.  Since signing with Selfish Music Group a year ago, Kyah has been featured on “Standing on Couches” with Jim Jones, Lil Kim and Lloyd Banks and has received spins on Hot 97 and Power 105.1.   At the end of 2010, Kyah released her debut mixtape titled The Rough Draft, a slight glimpse of this female lyrist’s true talent.  If The Rough Draft actually lives up to its title, then I predict this female MC will definitely be a part of the new wave of female rappers sweeping hip hop. 

F.A.M.E NYC had an opportunity to speak to Kyah Baby about The Rough Draft, her musical style and influences.

How did you first begin your relationship with DJ Self and the Selfish Music Group?

I first began my relationship with DJ Self when I met him through another artist on Selfish Music Group. Self had heard me on a mixtape and was interested in having me as an artist as soon as he heard me. I went to go meet him at the station; we discussed some things and took it from there.

How did growing up in Queens influence your musical style and vocal delivery?

I don’t think Queens itself influenced my musical style and delivery; I think my experiences in life did that. But, growing up in Queens has given me certain knowledge and encouragement that it is possible for someone like me to make it.  When growing up, I saw people like LL Cool J, Mobb Deep, 50 Cent [and] at present Nicki [Minaj] made it, it gives me a lot of faith and hope.

How did you receive the name the Freestyle Princess?

[Laughs]  I never heard that nickname before, maybe the “Princess of Hip Hop.”   But I am known for blessing the people with a quick 16 [bars].

What compelled you to write and record “L.O.H.H (Ladies of Hip Hop)”?

It’s funny because I tell the same story every time. What actually influenced me was when I was at Summer Jam.   I was saddened to see only one female performing there. It just made me reminisce on when there were many females in the game all at once – all for one in unity. I just thought it would be the right thing to do, to show these women that they are remembered and have made a difference for females in the game as well as up & coming females like myself.

The new millennium has thus far seen a virtual disappearance of female MCs from mainstream hip hop.  Do you believe that the success of Nicki Minaj is ushering a new age for ladies in hip hop?

I really can’t call it, it’s just the beginning.  I’m focused on my music.   My first mixtape The Rough Draft is out right now and available to download for free on www.datpiff.com.

How did you come up with the title of your new mixtape?

It came from the first title I had for my mixtape, which was actually Sincerely, Kyah, but then I thought that sounds like the end of something.  I’m fresh and new, so I have to start from scratch. That’s when I thought…before you compose a proper piece of writing, you go through the outline, the rough draft, the edited version, the final essay, things like that.  So, I just figured ‘Hey, why not start out with the rough draft.’

What is your favorite track off The Rough Draft?

My favorite track off The Rough Draft is number five, “Doesn’t Matter.”  The song is really personal [and] about things I’ve been through with friends and family as well as my personal thoughts on a lot of things.

Name your top five Hip Hop albums/mixtapes of all time.

Wow, top five in hip hop.  It’s funny because I grew up off R&B, [Laughs].  I would have to say Jay-Z’s Blueprint 3, Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP, 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Lil’ Kim’s Hardcore and Biggie’s Life After Death.

Do you have performances lined up?  If so, where?

There’s no official dates yet, but if you stay connected with me and follow me on twitter.com/KYAHBABY_SMG, that’s @KYAHBABY_SMG , I’ll definitely post show dates, radio interviews, videos and photo shoots, so look out for that.   Also, make sure you type “Kyah Baby” in YouTube.  My videos are up, so go check that out as well.

Besides The Rough Draft, what else should your fans expect from you in 2011?

The Rough Draft was 2010, [Laughs].   For 2011, they can expect more videos, more songs [and] more mixtapes… basically a takeover!