Feature Band: Wait for Green

Formed in Tallahassee, Florida Wait for Green is an emerging alternative band skyrocketing to success. We sit down with lead guitarist & FSU grad Rafael Britto to discuss life on the road and rise to rockstardom.

Tallatainment:How did the band form? Did you always grow up dreaming about being a rockstar?

Rafael:The band formed in college by fate. Two of us were from the same hometown and we all met in the dorms our first years of college and realized that we had the same musical taste. I never really dreamt of being a rock star until my parents took me to an Elton John show in sixth grade. It was that crocodile rock.

Tallatainment:How would you describe Wait for Green's sound and why do you think people are so receptive to it as well as the band as a whole?

Rafael:Basically, we play the music we enjoy listening to. Each member is influenced by different styles and I think that is what makes the music original. Reggae, hip-hop, and funk are what most characterize our sound but don’t be surprised if you hear some heavy rock, punk, jazz, or psychedelic sounds thrown in there. People are receptive for different reasons. Some may be like because of the intricateness of various songs and others are drawn in by the simple and catchy vocal melodies. Overall, I think people are attracted to it because it is positive music and it is entertaining to watch live. Who doesn’t dig something you can bounce to?

Tallatainment:How does the transition from full time FSU Student to being on tour feel? Are you ever humbled or taken back by your recent spike in success?

Rafael:FSU and Tallahassee gave us more than we could ask for during our time there and we can never be thankful enough because if it wasn’t for our local fans giving us attention, we wouldn’t be where we are now. What we want more than anything is to spread our music to as many people as possible so playing in different states and even different countries only gives us more incentive to keep going. Things happened in steps for us. Success, when we first started, was seeing our name on the Floyd’s marquee and being able to play Floyd’s in the first place. Then, we opened for popular national acts such as Reel Big Fish, Blues Traveler, and Slightly Stoopid. Every step was considered success and once we got accustomed to a certain level, we would set higher goals. We had no idea how far that would take us and we still don’t but performing at Sunfest and at the 2009 Billabong World Surfing Games in Costa Rica was never in my dreams.

Tallatainment: What was your experience at MEISA's Battle of the Band's like? What was the first thing you did after winning?

Rafael:That was the first battle of the bands that we ever played and we were very fortunate to win it. All of the bands were incredible but I think we won because I did 20 squats before we went on stage that night. My legs were looking way too good for the judges to even think about picking another band to win it. The first thing we did after winning was take a victory lap around the venue with our lead singer, Drew, on our shoulders.

Tallatainment:What is the craziest or most interesting thing that has happened to you on stage?

Rafael:I ate a live human on stage…at a reggae show… Is cannibalism crazy enough?

Tallatainment: What's up next for the band? What should we be looking out for in the next few months?

Rafael:We are playing our first show in California at the Whisky a Go Go which is a world renowned venue on the Sunset Strip. As far as the music goes, we are always creating new stuff and plan on releasing brand new songs in a couple of months. We are experimenting with different instruments like beat machines and keyboards so be expecting something new and fresh.

Tallatainment: Where do you see the band in 10 years?

Rafael:Happy.

DJ Acrojam & The Underground Railroad

Tallatainment: Could you give us a little on the history of 89.7 and
the Underground Railroad?

Acrojam:Of course! WVFS is an Affiliated Project of the Florida State
University Student Government Association and the College of
Communication which started in 1987. It is also a non-commercial,
educational, public radio station that airs 24/7, 365 days a year.
Luckily for us, we have multi-faceted staff members consisting of
students and community volunteers that operate the station live. WVFS
is last of it's kind and we're proud of going against the grain of
conforming to more commercial realms of media. The Underground
Railroad is just that. An avenue to free people of mundane ideas of
what most precieve hip-hop to be since 1989. We play and interview a
lot of underground and or up and coming artists and community leaders
in the cipher of true school hip-hop. UGR (underground railroad) has a
rich history in regards to who has hosted the show. Likes of DJ Demp,
Supastar J Kwik, Dirty Digits, Matthew David, Amond Jackson, who were
all heading the show and creating a trend of playing hip-hop artists
that eventually became what the masses gravitated towards when they
wanted genuine music to listen to. There were a good selection of
folks who hosted but way too many to list but those are few that
either took the show to the community or used what they learned to
better themselves as producers,djs, and or community leaders.

Tallatainment:What drew you to working with the station?

Acrojam:I actually used to listen to the show from time to time when
Tasha was hosting. I enjoyed the selection and access it gave me to
lesser known artists. I had complaints about how stagnant radio at
large has gotten and wanted to do something about it but, didn't
really know exactly how. However, Law of Attraction came into play,
and a friend of mine knew that I was involved in music through the
years and thought that I should meet up with this guy that had a
vision for the Tallahassee music scene. This is when I met Amond
Jackson. We shared ideas and concepts about what we wanted to see in
the area and at that time there wasn't much going on for hip-hop heads
other than the thurs night ciphers I had at my house lol. He wanted to
see mc battles and I wanted to see break dancing. He had been in T
town for some odd years and saw crests and troughs in what we thought
was a potential music scene. The height was when Dirty Digits was
hosting the show. He did a good job incorporating the community with
UGR and vice versa. We wanted to bring that aspect back. Community
involvement was key. He told me that he was about to get the show
passed down to him and was going to need some help down the line. So,
a few months later he taught me how to edit songs and the rest was
history. Editing hip-hop songs is a excruciating process by the way.
Later down the line I joined V89's team officially and started out on
the production team then moved on to do my required announcing shifts.
One of the toughest. The dreaded Monday night 2am-6am. YIKES! I think
I only missed one or two shifts due to a couple Physics II exam crams.
He moved on to do bigger and better things and he choose me to carry
the torch. Many doubted my ability to sustain the show. That was tough
knowing that people didn't think that I could do it but, little did
they know that's what spreads the fire.

Tallatainment:What do you think distinguishes V89/The Underground
Railroad from any of the other stations in Tallahassee?

Acrojam:Our pedigree and passion for what we do. Most of us are
producers, dj's, musicians, mc's, music aficionados, developing labels
owners, directors etc. Like I mentioned UGR has a looong history and
the people that ran it knew it wasn't about them. Their reward comes
much later. It was about the music, the community, the culture of
hip-hop. It takes a lot of sacrifice to run UGR and it only airs once
a week (Sat 5pm-8pm). We dig for unheard music to fill the larger part
of the playlist. Majority of the selection has to be prepared by us to
be FCC clean. For some of us, our career dreams are on the line and
we'll be stupid to put the show and or station in any danger. It's
draining when you do it right. However, it is all worth the sweat,
tears, and sometimes blood. Just kidding.

Tallatainment:What would be your dream project or guest?

Acrojam:Hmm...You know, I think working with UGR has already opened up
manifestation of our dream projects. It was a thought, then action,
then an experience. I think what we're already heading towards is
creating a whole state movement of true school hip-hop in Florida. My
dream is already starting to become reality. During Amond and my's
time at UGR we connected with a lot of community heads here,
Jacksonville, Pensacola, Orlando, and Miami. However, me not being an
native Floridian a direct answer would be... you know I'm from
Augusta, Georgia right? Goodie Mob is getting back together to do a
few shows, Outkast is putting together a new project soon, Organize
Noise is one of my favorite production crews. So I would say having
the whole Dungeon Family at V89 for a live session would be dope! And
what's even more significant is without likes of UGK, 8 Ball & MJG,
Ghetto Boys, and the Dungeon Family we probably wouldn't even be
having this conversation right now as far as the south being a major
player in lyrical hip-hop. People used to laugh at the south. Now,
they bend to the south. I would be elated to have DF :)

Tallatainment:Any current projects or events that we should be on the
look out for?
Acrojam:Keep your eyes agile... not gonna let the cat out of the bag
just yet. Just know the ninja is working.

Tallatainment:What aspirations do you have for the station? Where
would like to see it in a year? in 5 years?
Acrojam:I would like the station to have more recognition. Being that
our wattage only reaches a 20 mile radius that leaves a lot of room
for growth and expansion. However, the money that we get does not come
from the state or the school. We raise the money in house through the
support of the community but, we have a long way to go. We don't ask
for much here at V89. Just coffee, pizza and ice cream parties from
time to time. In a years time I would like V89 to have a state of the
art recording studio and production room WITH MACS, I can go hide in.
Easy functioning and playing cd players. In 5 years MORE WATTAGE!!!
MORE VISIBILITY!!! MORE BUMPER STICKERS!!! UGR CAN BE HEARD IN
EVERYONES SMART CAR, HOUSE, IPOD NATIONALLY!!!
Tallatainment: If people would like to get involved with the station
what should they do? Who should they contact?

Acrojam:Listen to WVFS 89.7FM around the beginning of each semester.
The cattle call meeting is what you should listen for. It is the open
meeting to all to find out more information about the station and the
people that run it. Or you can contact the program director with
inquires at www.wvfs.fsu.edu. They will direct you with more info
about the cattle call unless you’re going to give us donations lol.
You can listen online worldwide at www.wvfs.fsu.edu every Sat 5pm-8pm est
Please link my blogspot and twitter sites below
www.agileeyes.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/djacrojam
myspace.com/mcubedproductions

Life Kit: An Intrapersonal Image of Individuality

Love.Energy.Knowledge.Time.
This is Life Kit.



The fashion brand is dedicated to building a foundation that prompts a lifestyle of self-actualization and collective individuality through innovative apparel and accessories.
Founded on the campus of North Carolina Central University in the spring of 2009, a group of gentlemen with big dreams, wished to create a type of jewelry that was made for the sole purpose of expressing themselves. They sought to create a line that exuded creative freedom and uniqueness like none other. In doing so, they consequently generated a local buzz and began to receive an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from students on the NCCU campus. All things considered, it wasn't a hard decision to expand the vision and ultimately make the line public.
"Amongst confusion you will find us", co-founder Austin Henley stated. “Life Kit is more than a brand it is a way of life, the sleek wooden designs have more meaning than what they appear to be.”
Aesthetically powerful and with a distinctive facade, Life Kit raises awareness and endorses peace within the brand. Each piece is handcrafted & affordable, with prices ranging from $20-$25. The designers frequently release new designs and are gradually gaining notoriety as well as expanding their operations-most recently making their way onto college campuses in Tallahassee, FL.
Henley states that they are currently focusing on neckwear only, however the next step is clothing and apparel.
“I'm done with being gassed…” Says Henley, “… I'm ready to drive…."
Life Kit has been long awaited and…needed…
Considering their necklaces already turn heads, this transition shouldn’t be hard. We at Tallatainment are personally looking forward to the progression of the brand and wish them the best in their expansion.







http://www.lkallday.blogspot.com/

College Hill: The Realities of Reality TV

If viewers were to describe BET’s College Hill in one word, there’s no doubt it would be DRAMA. The fist fighting, binge drinking, college coed’s consistently keep fans captivated year after year with their crazy antics and clashes in personalities.
And College Hill: South Beach was no exception.
However, in the midst of all the chaos one cast mate seemingly kept his calm. Paul Georgiadis, the laid back 20 year old Miami, FL native, approached the show as if he was there on vacation.
"A reality show is easy to get on, it's probably the easiest to get on", explains Georgiadis.
The silent, but sound Paul knew why he was on the show and took full advantage of this opportunity. Rewind to pre-College Hill, and Paul will be the first to tell you he's had his fair share of run-ins with the law.
"I was young and dumb. Back then I thought I was in Belly", referring to the classic Hype Williams flick.
The suave Paul kept his cool on the show, rarely being the center of attention unlike his fellow housemates. Paul expressed that there were microphones on every single cast member at all times, and they were to go nowhere by themselves. Additionally, Paul noted the extensive amount of idle time they were given-a big reason for the amount of tension created on the show.
"Everything in the house was real…", Paul emphasizes, "…All the fights, all the arguments, everything you saw on the night vision...Was real!"
Taping lasted for two months, after the show Paul found himself at a life crossroad, wondering what his next move would be. Being accepted to Florida A&M University three years prior to filming, he decided that this is where the next chapter of his life was going to begin. The Broadcast Journalism major made clear that he was interested in film school. Having various conversations with some of College Hill producers and directors, Paul noticed that, that may be the way to go.
"Filming and directing is stress-free money, but becoming a producer takes a bit more work to get up there."
The young guy says he's motivated by money and that his drive and ambition should determine his character, not his stint on reality TV.

The New Face of Slip N Slide

You know them by name, but their face has certainly changed. Slip-N-Slide Records was propelled to global recognition with the success of such artists as Trina, Plies and previously Trick Daddy. Now in its 16th year, the label is undergoing a musical facelift, diversifying its line up with the signing of its first pop artist and a host of international superstars.

Former Disney star, Drew Sidora has the distinction of being able to call herself the first pop artist under Slip-N-Slide. Sidora expressed her excitement for new beginnings describing the experience as “groundbreaking” and “humbling”.

“Slip N Slide shared the same vision as I do. We’re truly like family and they allow me to have creative control, which is important to me as an artist.” Says Sidora,” They’ve had 15 years of excellence in the music business and broken platinum plus artist such as Rick Ross, Plies and Trina. R&B and pop music is new for the label, so I’m looking forward to making history with Slip N Slide”

Noted for being the leading independent record label responsible for creating the legendary hip-hop sounds of South Florida and the Southern Hip-Hop movement, Slip N Slide now seeks to go “Deeper than Rap” by expanding their reach not only across genres but cultures. Recent international signees Atiba and Camar bring alternative flavors to the label reflecting the diverse and dynamic cultures within the city of Miami and the Caribbean.

“I definitely feel that I bring a new sound and energy to Slip-N-Slide. My music is a blend of a myriad of sounds and cultures. My sound is so different that people find it hard to label it.” Says Jamaican native Atiba, “I have songs that are politically and socially conscious, love songs with substance that you wouldn't regularly hear on the radio, and songs that you would hear on the radio. Some of the songs have a strong rock, R & B and reggae influence…”


When questioned about whether they felt pressure to transition or alter their music to appeal to a more American crowd Camar replied, “No! Not at all... that's why I'm an international artist. I really don't feel any pressure in making the transition nor do I feel any pressure in altering my music because I feel I have a very good understanding of the cultures, the slangs, the vibe which helped me to created the unique way I merge the sounds to gain the acceptance of the American crowd, but I stay true to myself by staying grounded, not forgetting my roots and where I come from (Jamaica) which is the heart beat to my style of music.”

He adds, “My strengths and my appeal would definitely be my style and the sound of my music which has a much more international appeal! Not the typical Rap Acts that the label is known for. I bring the excitement of the Caribbean sound mixed with the Hip-Hop and R&B to help connect a different fan base to the label which is the Caribbean community that covers a vast amount of South Florida…”

Additional Slip-N-Slide signees include industry veterans’ Jagged Edge, R&B songstress Shonie, producer/artist Duece Poppi, GA native Swazy Baby and 2009 Next Big Superstar winner, Mike Bless.

With over 16 million albums sold since their inception and a number of upcoming releases on the way, Slip- N-Slide Records has secured its place in Hip Hop history and will be around for years to come

LittleLimeDress.com-A Personalized Twist of Style

Born a star but without the budget? No need to fret-Little Lime Dress has got you covered.
Little Lime Dress, a personalized twist of style, is an online personal styling and shopping service. Understanding that all women are unique both inside and out, Little Lime Dress finds items that flatter your figure, fit your personality and, of course, complement your budget.
Founded by a group of fashion industry professionals, LittleLimeDress.com was developed in part to address the lack of consideration in the fashion industry for cost, body types and taste preferences.
“At LittleLimeDress.com, a client (or, as we like to call them, Limettes) can work one-on-one with one of our Little Lime Stylists.” Says Co-Founder & Stylist Stefani Gartenberg, “They come from all around the United States to bring our clients the best personalized styling tips and outfit suggestions based on their individual needs including their body type, personal taste and budget. Unlike other sites, our suggestions are 100% catered to our client. It’s like working with a real stylist minus the high costs.”
Personalized to meet your price point, LLD grants its clients the ability to buy and create looks from over 100 online retailers such as Shopbop, Piperlime, Macy’s, Dillard’s and Lane Bryant. A one stop glamour shop, LLD also provides users with trend reports and styling advice; making finding the perfect look as easy as the click of a mouse.
This savvy time saver is particularly perfect for college students. Between classes and commitments, LLD understands that the life of a co-ed can be chaotic. Yet their bi-coastal team of stylists strives to offer a unique yet thorough balance in the information and styling advice they provide so that you can compliment your co-ed experience with a chic closet to match.
“What makes our personal shopping service unique and specifically great for college students is that it is extremely affordable, ranging from $35 - $55 for services and it is all done on-line so you can be anywhere and get the same advice and items.” adds Gartenberg , “It’s never been so easy to afford style!”
Whether you’re transitioning from college to corporate America or just casually coordinating, Little Lime Dress is there to meet all your fashion needs. You’re a starlet of style, so why not live in the limelight!
To see Little Lime Dress.com in action, click the link below to check out their style suggestions for Tallatainment owner Amanda.

Amanda is a 22 year old glamour girl on the go. Outside of
Tallatainment.com, She works as a Freelance Fashion & Entertainment
Publicist and values pieces that are ultra feminine, functional yet
professional. She is 5’5 with an hourglass shape and often has trouble
finding clothing that flatters her bust, minimized her hips and
lengthens her torso. What clothing suggestions or style tips do you
have to help her highlight her assets?

Amanda, you have it all going for you right now! You are young, beautiful and already successful. As far as I am concerned, it can only go up from here. And at LLD we believe the only way to rise to success is in style. At 22, you have the luxury of wearing certain silhouettes that women in other age brackets can't.

You can have fun with denim; making choices to wear anything from a skinny jean to a tailored trouser. As someone with an hourglass figure, skinny jeans are a great staple pant shape for you. Once you have your pant staple, you can subtly accentuate your bust with multiple necklines. A square neck shows a beautiful line from your neck to your shoulder. Want to be more daring? Go for an alluring V-neck which offers some edge, just be sure to layer underneath so as not to be too revealing during your workday. A scoopneck is always a great fall back; it is universally flattering and allows you to showcase your personality while using it as a backdrop for a myriad of accessories. (Think: a bold statement necklace or a collection of 3 or 4 delicately layered chains).

In your field, you have to look great all the time, so you need to focus on pieces that will take you from your noon meeting to your 6pm dinner with clients. My best recommendation for you would be dresses! Not only are they comfortable, stylish and completely versatile, but they will also keep you cool in that Tallahassee heat! You have a medium height range, not too short or tall, which only benefits you when shopping. You can be playful in your choice of heel height and enjoy a variety of silhouettes that wouldn't necessarily work for other frames. Choosing the right dress is essential but it will provide beautiful lines, show off your fabulous hourglass figure, accentuate the body parts you want and elongate your frame.

Here are a couple of examples of dresses I think would be perfect for you!



I chose this silk ruffle dress from Banana Republic ($152, found @ bananarepublic.com) for a number of reasons. The ruffled neckline brings attention to your chest in an elegant and classy way while maintaining a youthful vibe. The cascading waterfall ruffles accentuate your curves and plays up your hourglass figure. Silver is a great color for your skin tone and helps to jazz up the sleek silhouette making it more playful. Finally, the mini length shows off your legs and says you are ready to party! This dress is sophisticated and party-like; two things that when paired with your confidence will have you turning heads!




Need a more tailored look? A shirtdress is the obvious suggestion! Balancing both functional and fun, the shirtdress is feminine and playful, creating a long, slim look while also being professional. You can easily take the shirtdress from day to night by slipping on a pair of killer heels and unbuttoning that top button. With shirtdresses coming in such a variety of patterns, materials and colors it’s easy to find one that’s flirty yet professional. I chose this little black shirtdress by Velvet ($130, found @ shopbop.com) because it is simple yet chic. A wearable jersey fabric keeps you cool and comfortable all day long while the smocked elastic waist enhances your figure. The fold over collar adds an additional professionalism to the frock.
Best part? This double as the perfect LBD (little back dress) too!


Amanda, with your skin tone you can easily go with neutrals or bright, vibrant colors. You are lucky, so take advantage! Like I said earlier, you have it all going on for you now, so don't be afraid to push the style limits, just be sure to stick with some classic basics and build on that. Have fun when shopping!



Lots of Lime,
Stefani

Feature Artist: Upclose & Personal w/ Trey Songz

Tallatainment: First of all, How are you?

Trey: Im feeling great, how are you doing?

Tallatainment: Im great.

Trey: thats good

Tallatainment:Now I follow you on twitter.

Trey: Believe that!

Talltainment: You're like the king of twitter. You're hugely popular,
you update all the time and everytime you go live you have thousands
of people following you, Why do you think people are so interested in
what Trey Songz has to say?

Trey:I think its because people know my beginnings..and the people
that were there from the beginning...you know, its infectious you know
what I mean? There are people that are just learning about me are
interested in as to why everybody else is interested and once they get
there, people see that im authentic, that I work hard at what I do.
You know, I love what I do. I love the people that support me. I think
hard work pays off and when you consistantly do something at a good
pace and you remain humble and you thank God for your blessing its
only a matter of time before it all comes to a head and makes sense.

Tallatainment:
Now I know you just mentioned being humble and im sure
youre use to the fame and the fans by now, but do you ever have any
moments where you need to be kept in check? and if so, who keeps you
in check? Who keeps you level headed?

Trey: I keep around with me the same people who were here with me
since I began so its no 'yes' men, its a brotherhood surrounding me.
Its just the type of man I am. I am very confident in myself, In some
situations im more confident than me than anybody could be. But you
have to draw the line between confidence and arrogance. So I remain
humble and I remember my beginnings.

Tallatainment: Alright, so now as far as your beginnings go, I know
you're really close with your mom. I know you mention her alot. Now
how does your relationship with her affect your relationship with
women? Do you look for the same qualities that your mom has in women?

Trey: That's a good question. You know my mother's a good woman and of
course, she's set the bar really high for what I would like a woman to
be. But in the same token, I know how to seperate the two. My mother
and I kind of grew up together and I was basically raised by women,
strong women who didnt have men in their lives, so I definately look
for a woman with backbone, a woman thats independent but a woman that
at the same time knows how to be a woman when a man steps around.

Tallatainment: Ok. Now since we're on women. I copted the
'Anticipation' Mixtape...

Trey: You aint copt it! It was free!

Tallatainment: Ok, I got the mixtape. I downloaded the mixtape. I
downloaded the mixtape!

Trey: Yeah, the mixtape was free!

Tallatainment: ok, ok, so I downloaded the mixtape. There were alot of
slow songs, alot of of baby makers and I was just wondering is that a
prelude to ready? Is it all about sex? Is there more to Trey Songz?

Trey: I dont think that 'Anticipation' is all about sex. Most of those
songs, Im talking about making love, thats what you do with somebody
that you do love. Outside of that, if Anticipation was a prelude to
Ready then that means all the mixtape songs I did were a prelude for
'Anticipation'. 'Anticipation' is to show that musically I can do
whatever I want to do, that was just a portion of what ready's going
to be like

Tallatainment: So if you had to describe 'Ready' in 3 words, what would they be?

Trey: I wouldnt, I'd describe it in one: 'Ready'

Tallatainment: Alright, well I cant do anything but respect that. So
what was your favorite collaboration on the album?

Trey: Collab on the album? Artist wise or production wise?

Tallatainment: Either or...

Trey: Well, I always work with Troy Taylor, hes my favorite producer
to work with and we have a chemistry like no other. Artist-wise, I
think there was a special collaboration with Fabulous because he
actually came in on the day of mastering, the day that the album was
being completed and his album actually came out that same week. That
was love right there, he went high and above and beyond my
expectations to get it done on a song that probably wouldnt have been
on the album had he not done it. You know Drake is on the album on two
records and Soulja Boy, Gucci Mane is on the album so those are all
the features.

Tallatainment: Now I know you have your philanthropy and your
production company but are you working on any projects outside of
that?

Trey: Well Songz for Peace is definately on going, thats something
thats very special for me, something I hold close to my heart and
hopefully after this whole promo and the whole promoting the album
thing we can tie it along with the tour and things of that nature but
right now 'Ready' is the most important thing im working on.

Tallatainment: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Trey: In 10 years? Im worried about today! In 10 years, I'll think
about 10 years when it gets here... hopefully im successful and happy
and that's all!

Feature Photographer: Ashley Nguyen

Tallatainment:How did you come to find that you had a passion for photography? Is this what you always dreamed of doing?

Ashley: I found my passion for photography accidentally. My interest in photography first began in college while helping out a friend with an image for his Myspace Music page. I experimented with Photoshop a bit during high school and thought that I could create something eye-catching for his work. I took a photo of him on a regular point and shoot camera, photoshopped it a bit, and by the time I was done, people visiting his page thought he had professional photos taken. I was in still college at the time, so I decided that photography would be more than just a fun hobby, it instead would help me pay bills.

I never dreamed of doing photography... It just sort of happened and I fell in love with it. I get butterflies when I get an idea to put into photos/photo montages or am inspired by someone elses work. Although photography began as a friendly gesture, it quickly became a passion for me.

Tallatainment:What is your primary style? Any forms of photography you'd like to branch off into?

Ashley: The work that I am best known for is portraiture, primarily because it paid the bills while I was in college. Now that I have just graduated, I have more time on my hands and I have expanded into directorial photoshoots. I am also interested in doing mixed media with collaborating photography and encaustic or painting.

Tallatainment: Typically, where do you draw your inspiration for a shoot from?

Ashley: Originally, I was solely inspired by the styles photography I was primarily surrounded by, styles such as media and superficial glamour. I worked for fashion-photographer Nadia Pandolfo for two summers as a photo assistant to learn because although I felt that I had some raw talent, I felt to further enhance my skills and knowledge on photography, I needed to be formally trained. Working with Pandolfo was a valuable experience and her style definitely left an impression on me and is evident in some of my work.

Some classes I took the last few months have made me look back to the masters of photography and gain a new appreciation for their brilliant work. Photographers such Philip Lorca diCorcia, Annie Leibovitz and Robert Heinekin have inspired me to think outside conventional photography and try something new. Contemporary photographers I enjoy looking at for portraiture influence are Marc Baptiste, Randall Slavin, and James Sutton.


Tallatainment: Where is the most interested place your craft has taken you?

Ashley: The most interesting place photography has taken me is Los Angeles. I wanted to learn more about the finer aspects of photography so I emailed (enter her name here) because I admired her work and asked her if I could intern for the summer. Thankfully, she agreed so I went to L.A. and learned a million things about photography and life in general.

Tallatainment: What is your ultimate goal for your work and your career as a whole?

Ashley: My ultimate goal is to be able to expand to different areas of photography and make it more of an art rather than commercial. I want to be able to enlighten the world somehow with it. I'm just not sure if I have tapped into exactly how I will achieve this, due to the fact that I have so many ideas constantly running through my mind, but I do believe I can make it happen.

Tallatainment: What's next for you? What should we be anticipating in the next few months, years?

Ashley: I am planning on applying to Grad School for the arts to expand and take various art courses to diversify my work. I want there to be more meaning behind my photos than what the meets the eye. I want to capture people in their true essence.... things don't always have to be pretty. So far in my learning experiences, I have found that it can be hard to shake the Hollywood style of commercial photography, but I want to utilize my experience, and create something beautiful that is beyond the typical magazine standards. Eventually, I want people to be inspired by my work to create something great for themselves.

Feature Model: Deanna aka “Miss Dade County”

Tallatainment: How did you get into the modeling industry?

Deanna: I went with one of my friends to a casting, got introduced to Lashawna S. (ceo of Ethnicity Models) & was recruited onto the team.

Tallatainment: What or where is the most interesting place or thing you've done modeling?

I was in TI "Top Back Remix" music video, it was sooooo cold outside the day of the shoot, & I was wearing jumper shorts, so I was freezing! But chevy ended up using a shot of that video with my part in it for one of the 2007 Chevy Super Bowl commercials, (which looked hot! Ironic? lol) so that was a really interesting turnout :)

Tallatainment: What is one misconception you'd like to clear up about being a model?

Deanna: That we don't eat and that were all coke heads or whores. Very false statement.

Tallatainment: Are there any additional projects you're working on outside of modeling?

Yes, modeling for me is just a hobby. Its something I just fell into, & i guess from everything I've booked I can say I'm pretty good at it. Music is my passion. I go by Miss Dade County, I've always done music & ive worked with artist such as snoop dogg, & Bobby Valentino & pitbull. The list does go on, so make sure you check out my music at www.MissDadeCounty.com <--(leads to myspace ;0) i've also been in a music video as a featured artist with bobby v. & nore. You can check that out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7a_iq6Zlyps&feature=channel_page

Tallatainment: What advice would you give for aspiring models out there?

Deanna: Be yourself. & Take care of yourself. It's important to be fit, & healthy! Exercise! Drink plenty of water & smile at castings! If you need more info join EthnicityTalent.com , really there is the golden key for an aspiring model, if she's dope :)

All my links are:

www.MissDadeTv.com <--internet show channel

www.Twitter.com/MissDadeCounty <-- follow me if you dare! lol

www.myspace.com/TheOfficialMissDadeCounty <-- way more info on me (Also in the pic album that says "where you have probably seen me" stills of most of the music videos i've done are there)

www.Youtube.com/MissDade <-- my vids

Feature Designer: Justin Elliot for Royaltees

Tallatainment:What motivated you to start Royaltees? Has this always been your passion?

Justin:First I would like to say thanks for showing us support with Royaltees. So the start of Royaltees, well I would say that Royaltees came as the next step for me in the clothing biz. When I was in high school I would airbrush and hand paint shirts with different cartoons and peoples names and thing like that. I did this for about 3 years and a little after I was done with school. So I have always been into clothing. It makes me happy to see other people wearing something that I created. So now after school I thought how could I continue with this and reach a wider market. So Royaltees was formed with that hope in mind. To bring my ideas to life and share them with the world.

Tallatainment: What was the biggest obstacle or challenge starting up the line? What challenges do you continue to face?

Justin:Well the biggest challenge in the beginning is money. I want to do so much with my line but I dont come from a rich family so I have to put in work for everything I do. Also the fashion industry is hard place to find a spot in. It takes time and lots of work to get people to notice you. There are alot of brands out there so its alot of competition. There are celebrities that have tried to start there own clothing lines and even with their own star power and money could not succeed.

Tallatainment:Who's your target audience for Royaltees? Any celebrity or socialite you'd love to see in the brand?

Justin:Royaltees is for the younger crowd. We have alot of ties to the West Indies so we have a huge Caribbean following and also the American crowd too so its a nice blend and we want to keep it that way. We ran a Ad saying 'Royaltees we the young black Ralph Lauren' and I like that direction also, so we will be on a few levels. Well we are working with a few now. Like Fly Khicks from ABDC, Infantry the biggest reggae dance crew in the South, Chris from College Hill and alot of local Celebs like some of the biggest DeeJays in the city.

In the future we would like to link up with people like Sean Paul, John Legend, maybe some of the Marleys, Lauryn Hill, people that have left their mark on our culture and some new ones like Big Sean, Meagan Good, and of course there are many more but we will see what the future holds.



Tallatainment:Where do you draw your inspiration for your designs from?

Justin:Well our most prominent design is our logo the lion. The Royaltees lion is the base of our line you can find it on polo's , shirts, jackets, cardigans, and alot of other stuff. We chose the lion as our logo because when you see a lion most people think of kingship or king of the jungle. And when you think of life its like a concrete jungle. So as Royaltee you are the king of your jungle, of your life. So that is the message we want to give your fans, that you are the King or Queen of your jungle. So when you put on one of our pieces thats the thought we want you to have. That you are Royaltee, you control your life and have confidence in yourself. Thats why alot of our designs some people might think of it as cocky but its having the confidence to say I Am Royaltee and have a meaning behind it.


Tallatainment:Describe your philosophy on the art of fashion?

Justin:Well I believe that fashion is really up to the person. As a designer I have come to realize that not everyone is going to like the things I make. But if you try to make something everyone will like you will go crazy! So I have my niche and i have people that like what I make so I focus on pleasing them and making them come back for more. And thats what fashion is about. Knowing what people want to wear and making it.

Tallatainment: Whats up next for the line? Any special projects or events we should be on the look out for?

Justin: Well 09/11/09 was the launch of our first official season Fall 2009 Season 1. And with that you can expect tons of events and things coming up that are still in the works. Then the beginning of October will be Miami Carnival and Royaltees will be in full effect for carnival we will have a both and you will see hundreds of our shirts jumping up around the parade lol. And then the big one for the Fall will be The Fashion Designer Expo which Royaltees will be in and that is going to be hectic be well worth it. Its a charity event for the Breast Cancer Foundation and is one of Miami's biggest fashion events.




Tallatainment: Any advice for aspiring designers out there? What's the one thing you think they should know?

Justin:The best advice is to do you research and have a plan. With out knowing what your getting your self into you might have the best designs in the world but never go any where. So have a plan before you even put your pencil to the sketch book.

Tallatainment: Where does Royaltees retail or where could you purchase it from?

Justin:Royaltees is in a number of stores for a full list or to shop online you can check out our web site http://www.royalteesonline.com/

FIRST LOOK!---New Era Spring 2009 Tradition

Get the first look at New Era's Spring 2009 HBCU Tradition Line!!

Must haves for all those Rattler Fans Out There!

"For over 170 years Historically Black Colleges and Universities have stood the test of time. They have been faced with challenges and adversities, unlike any other institutions of higher learning. We, at New Era®, have embarked on a mission to celebrate the history, enhance the legacy, and reinforce school pride through fashion. While keeping with the integrity and high standards, with your support we can continue to carry on the rich and proud, TRADITION TM."

PLEASURE P GETS READY FOR HIS “INTRODUCTION”;

Bluestar/Atlantic recording artist Pleasure P has announced early details of his hugely anticipated debut album, titled “THE INTRODUCTION OF MARCUS COOPER.” The collection – which features the hit singles, “Boyfriend #2” and “Did You Wrong” – will arrive in stores and at all digital retailers May 5th.

“Boyfriend #2” recently impacted at Urban and Rhythmic radio outlets nationwide. The single is shaping up as a major online sensation, having already drawn nearly 2.5 million streams on Pleasure P’s official MySpace page, located at www.myspace.com/pleasurepmyspace. The track’s companion video clip world premiered on MySpace Tuesday, January 27th.
The early success of “Boyfriend #2” follows Pleasure P’s smash debut single, “Did You Wrong,” which lit up the Rhythmic charts last fall. The track’s accompanying video – currently streaming at Pleasure P’s official website, http://www.pleasurepmusic.com/ -- proved a blockbuster introduction for the Miami-based singer, reaching the top 5 on BET’s 106 & Park countdown.

What’s more, Pleasure P – a.k.a. “The New Bad-Boy of R&B” – is featured on a new hip-hop hit, “Shone,” Poe Boy/Atlantic recording artist Flo Rida’s urban single from his eagerly awaited sophomore album, “ROUTES OF OVERCOMING THE STRUGGLE.”

Pleasure P – who can be seen in the January/February issue of XXL – first attracted international attention as a member of Bluestar/Atlantic recording group Pretty Ricky. With “THE INTRODUCTION OF MARCUS COOPER,” the gifted singer/songwriter embarks on what is likely to be a stunning solo career. Full details – including a complete tracklisting and updated single/video information – will be revealed shortly

NOTORIOUS B.I.G. EXPLODES ONTO BILLBOARD 200

Bad Boy Records’

“NOTORIOUS:

MUSIC FROM AND INSPIRED BY THE ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE” has made a remarkable chart entry, arriving on the Billboard 200 at #4, with sales of 43,000 – the week’s top debut. What’s more, the musical companion to the blockbuster Fox Searchlight motion picture has arrived at #1 on the “Top Rap Albums” tally, and #2 on both the “Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums” and “Top Digital Albums” charts.NOTORIOUS has also proven a true cinematic event, grossing $23.4 million in its first four days in release. The film opened January 16thin 1,638 locations with the highest per screen of all films in release - $14,286.

“NOTORIOUS: MUSIC FROM AND INSPIRED BY THE ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE” features timeless Notorious B.I.G. classics like “Juicy” and “Hypnotize” alongside never-before-released demos and new tracks by some of hip-hop’s biggest stars, including Jay-Z and Jadakiss. The album is highlighted by the Kanye West-produced single, “Brooklyn Go Hard,” performed by Jay-Z and featuring Santogold. The track is currently a top 25 hit on Billboard’s “Hot Rap Tracks” chart. Furthermore, the soundtrack showcases an additional single/video, “Letter to B.I.G.” by Jadakiss (Feat. Faith Evans), as well as a new version of the Notorious B.I.G. milestone, “One More Chance/The Legacy (Remix),” featuring CJ Wallace and Faith Evans.At the heart of “NOTORIOUS: MUSIC FROM AND INSPIRED BY THE ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE” is the everlasting music of the Notorious B.I.G. Among the classics included on the collection are “Warning,” “One More Chance/Stay With Me Remix,” and “Kick In The Door.” The album is highlighted by a number of previously unreleased demos, including “Microphone Murderer” and “Guaranteed Raw,” as well as the Notorious B.I.G.’s first-ever officially released track, “Party and Bullsh**” (originally from the soundtrack to the 1993 film, Who’s The Man?).

“NOTORIOUS: MUSIC FROM AND INSPIRED BY THE ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE” has drawn extensive critical praise. “There are just a few great soundtracks out there,” noted the New York Post. “The music for A Clockwork Orange is one, and the record supporting The Big Chill is another. Add this rap record to that small list.” Newsday declared the album to be “a first-rate reminder of the greatness of the Notorious B.I.G.,” while the Baltimore Examiner called it “a must-have.” The Philadelphia Inquirer summed it up: “Anyone who needs to be clued in as to what made the Notorious B.I.G. a great rapper can get that schooling here.”A special edition of the album is available exclusively at Target stores nationwide. The two-disc set includes an all-new documentary DVD, Remembering Christopher Wallace, featuring exclusive, never-before-seen private interviews with the family members who carry on the Notorious B.I.G.’s memory, including his mother, daughter, and son.

NOTORIOUS charts the remarkable rise of Christopher “The Notorious B.I.G.” Wallace – who, in just a few short years, shot from the tough streets of Brooklyn to the heights of hip-hop legend. Peeling back his mythic image eleven years after his tragic death, NOTORIOUS reveals the tumultuous and all-too-brief journey of a blazingly talented, fiercely determined young man whose unforgettable rap stories of inner city street life, with their raw truth and vivid rhymes, became emblematic of a whole generation’s brutal reality and its dreams of escaping it for something bigger. Fox Searchlight Pictures presents a Voletta Wallace Films/By Storm Films/State Street Pictures and Bad Boy Films production, NOTORIOUS, directed by George Tillman, Jr. (SOUL FOOD, MEN OF HONOR), from a script by Reggie Rock Bythewood and Cheo Hodari Coker. Producers are Biggie’s mother Voletta Wallace, former managers Wayne Barrow and Mark Pitts, Robert Teitel and Trish Hofmann. Sean “P Diddy” Combs serves as the film’s Executive Producer, and George Paaswell is the co-producer.

NOTORIOUS stars Angela Bassett (ER, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns), Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher, Friday Night Lights, Miracle at St. Anna), Jamal Woodward in his motion picture debut as the Notorious B.I.G., and Anthony Mackie.