Tuesday, May 22, 2012

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR ERICKA JOHNSON


    ERICKA BROADDUS JOHNSON


Ericka Broaddus Johnson can be described as funny, intelligent, sassy, outspoken and a host of other things. But, if you were to ask her, I’m, sure the most important thing she’d want you to know is that she is “a child of God.” Plainly put she “loves God and my relationship with Him. I am His child and I am human. So often people equate mention of God with perfection-but for me it’s more about striving t be the best person I can while realizing that I WILL and DO make mistakes. The key is whether I getting up and continuing on… if I can do that then I can look myself in the mirror every day without regret.”
In addition to the above, Johnson is a native of Richmond, Virginia and graduated with honors from the Henrico County Public School System. Furthering that she went on to graduate from James Madison University where she proudly proclaims to “Bleed Purple”. She has also worked in the banking, finance, and securities industries. Currently, she is in the field of Real Estate and is a Notary Public. But of all these things family is at the center of her heart; and the titles of Mother and Military Spouse reign supreme.


3375 Why did you begin writing?

Ericka I started writing in my spare time when I was younger. If I was 'bored' as a kid, or if I was having a moment of solitude, or if I was just going through something that I wanted to get out and didn't necessarily feel comfortable expressing it aloud.

3375 How long have you been writing?

Ericka I've probably been writing since I was eight.

3375 Tell me a little about your personal writing process?

Ericka Most times when I write there is some sort of 'muse'. It could be my experience during the day, it could be rainy and I just want to unwind, or I could just be going about the normal day to day tasks throughout the day, and I get the notion to put my thoughts on paper.

3375 What is the hardest part aspect of being a writer?

Ericka For me the hardest part about being a writer is sharing my writing. Erykah Badu's line, "keep in mind I'm an artist and I'm sensitive about my s#=!" Applies directly to me. Except I don't always look at myself as an artist. I view myself more as individual who put her thoughts/ideas on paper, probably because I don't eat, sleep, and breathe writing.

3375 How do you manage to balance writing with other real-life things (like children, etc)?

Ericka Balancing 'life' is very challenging. Being a military spouse can be very demanding, as you are responsible for the children, the household, and your mate. It can sometimes leave you with the daunting task of figuring out where you or what you like to do fit in?? Late nights, interrupted sleep and long showers are probably where a lot of my ideas are revisited.

3375 Where do you find your inspiration?

Ericka Real People' are my inspiration. Celebrities are great, but they are not my inspiration. When I see an older person, I'm talking 80+ going on about their day and doing their thing that inspires me. It makes me fee l like I can push through or press on.

3375 Tell us one random fact about you.

Ericka Horses are my favorite animals! At some point, I would like to have my own horse.

3375 Who are some of your favorite authors?

Ericka Some of my favorite authors are: Tami Hoag, Dean Koontz, Joyce Meyers, Lance Watson, Eric Jerome Dickey, and Kay Hooper

3375 As a new author was there any challege?

Ericka One of the biggest challenges for me was getting the word out and getting in front of my target audience.

3375 What does the future hold for Ericka?

Ericka I have a children's story book on the horizon. It has already been copywritten, I am just awaiting the illustrations. Be on the look out for that if you have children or teach them.

3375 Is there anything else you would like my readers to know about you or your books?

Ericka In the Mournig will challenge your thoughts while exposing my experiences in life.

3375 Do you have any shout out?

Ericka I would be remiss if I didn't shout out my family and friends as they are supportive of every endeavor I pursue.

INTERVIEW WITH B.DEVINE

                               B.DEVINE

B.DeVINE or DeVINE, as she loves to be called is an emerging Jacksonville, Florida based

singer-songwriter-poet who’s lyrical and vocal style stir up an influence reminiscent of
musicians such as Floetry, Jill Scott, and India.Arie.
DeVINE jokes that if Prince and Jill Scott could have created a love-child it would have been her! A singer since she could remember and a songwriter since she entered puberty, DeVINE found herself drawn to all types of music, from R&B to Techno and anything in between. After working countless hours in several studios around the city and lending background vocals for numerous local artists, she was chosen to perform with Psycster (a local Hip-Hop recording artist), to headline for Ja Rule, Mr. Cheeks, and Khia. This concert was ultimately the last concert to be held in the Jacksonville Coliseum before its demolition. After that time, she met Al Ross, an arranger and producer with 33 1/3 Productions, who eventually introduced her to Tony White, another talented Jacksonville native, who would become her mentor and self-proclaimed biggest fan. Over the next ten years, the two of them would collaborate by writing and arranging their own music. Recently, DeVINE wrote/co-wrote three songs that appeared on T. White's debut CD, Street Love. She also recorded and performed the CD's intro, "Honeydripper Lady" and was featured on "Rather B" another popular song from the CD. The album is still currently available on iTunes for purchase. In late 2010, DeVINE finally decided to embark on her debut project. A decade in the making, she carefully selected poems written for what she still hopes will be her first book, to be a part of her spoken word project. After completion, DeVINE along with a few others from TyTeWork Entertainment, quickly realized that there was very little exposure for the type of music they created. Armed with only an idea and ProTools, she decided to form her own genre of music, affectionately named Pornetry, due to its infusion of intimacy-based spoken word with smooth melodies. To put it simply, it is Erotica set to music. Literoticism, another term coined by B.DeVINE, is the ability to create and/or heighten sexual pleasure through literature. B.DeVINE is excited to share "SoulBareHer" with the world. Once B.DeVINE's project is unveiled, the temperatures in Florida may get a tad bit hotter thanks to this seductive entertainer



3375 When did you first start singing?

B.DeVINE I would have to say my earliest memory is around 8 or so, I started singing in the youth choir at church. I have always enjoyed hearing songs in harmony and learned the technical side of discovering notes in music from my mother as a kid.

3375 What did your family do to encourage you?


My family supported my decision to pursue music in church, school, and our community. My mom encouraged me to compete in local pageants, talent competitions, as well as youth community choirs. I studied music from grade school through high school.

3375 Who else in your family sings?


B.DeVINE My maternal grandfather, my paternal grandmother, my mother & father, all of my aunts and uncles on my dad’s side, four of my siblings, and quite a few cousins on both sides of the family can sing & play instruments. Oh my goodness, I didn’t realize it, but over half of my family can sing and/or play a musical instrument.

3375 Who are your musical inspirations?

B.DeVINE I have too many to name, but if I had to pick my top five musical inspirations, I would have to say my mother who can bring tears to your eyes with her rendition of Madame Butterfly, Lalah Hathaway & India.Arie, who have an edgy lower vocal tone that I (as a content alto) just adore, Jazmine Sullivan because she so young but has the voice with the soul of Nina Simone, and last but certainly not least, Prince…his range, his vocal ability, and his knowledge of so many different instruments truly astounds me.

3375 What kind of music do you listen to today?

B.DeVINE I am a lover of House music; believe it or not, this genre has been my favorite to listen to since middle school. I also love Ambient/Chill, Classical, & Gospel music…I have a very diverse playlist right now!

3375 What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player?

B.DeVINE I don’t think any song would be embarrassing for me because I truly enjoy listening to all types of music from Soundgarden’s Black Hole Sun to Mozart’s Sonata No. 11 in A Major. If a song shows talent in writing, production, and vocal ability…I will automatically be a fan!

3375 Where would you most like to perform?

B.DeVINE I would love to perform in Europe or somewhere else abroad. There is such a true passion for great music outside of the US and I feel like I would be embraced for being exactly who I am, a vocalist who happens to also be a spoken word artist. I just want to share good music with whoever wants to listen, wherever!

3375 Who would you most like to open for?

B.DeVINE I would love to open for Marsha Ambrosious, with her being a former member of Floetry; I feel that my style of music would be like a breath of fresh air for her… reflective even. Ultimately, my dream is to perform on a stage with people I have admired over the years in music.

3375 If you weren't singing, what would you be doing?

B.DeVINE I have a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, I have always wanted to work with the FBI, so I most likely would have pursued a career with the government.

3375 Do you play any instruments?

B.DeVINE I really want to learn to play the piano and acoustic guitar, but unfortunately, I am not where I would like to be with those instruments just yet. Ask me again, in about two years…hopefully I can say YES, with confidence.

3375 If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be?

B.DeVINE Ambient House, this form of music is so chill; it is so different than anything I have ever heard. It relaxes me and allows me to truly get in touch with my vocal abilities and honestly, if it were more “mainstream” I would certainly give it a shot!

3375 What genre of music can't you stand to listen to?

B.DeVINE I haven’t heard a genre that I “can’t stand” per se, but I will say the Hardcore Rock (where the lead singer screams every word) is certainly not my favorite.

3375 What hidden talents do you have?

B.DeVINE I can sing my alphabets backwards. I memorized them as a kid and I guess it just stuck with me. All of the others are for me to know and for TMZ to never find out.

3375 Do you enjoy writing music and/or lyrics?

B.DeVINE Yes, absolutely, I can always count on writing poetry and music to ease my mind and help me get through some of my toughest times. Writing has actually been like therapy for me and I don’t know what I would have done without my gel pen and my composition book.



3375 Where can we listen to your music and contact you?

Everyone can listen to music as well as contact B.DeVINE via the following links:
www.reverbnation.com/BDeVINE
www.BDeVINE.com
www.twitter.com/TheRealBDeVINE
www.facebook.com/pornetry
www.cdbaby.com/cd/bdevine
www.itunes.com/bdevine



3375 Do you have any shout outs?

B.DeVINE Of course, first I must SALUTE my family (immediate and extended) for supporting me through the years as I transition my music from being much more than just a hobby. I love you more than words can capture! I would like to THANK Tony White with TyteWork Entertainment for the amazing production and mentoring over the last decade, I have truly grown up creating music with you and I hope we continue to make it B.eautifully! I would like to THANK Mrs. Dana with The LMS Group for believing in my talent enough to tell someone else and for standing firmly behind your word; no words could express my gratitude for your friendship and support! Finally and most importantly, to everyone who has ever purchased, downloaded, liked, followed, posted, & reposted anything about B.DeVINE…I appreciate ALL of you and your efforts individually and collectively! THANK YOU!

INTERVIEW WITH JASON

                          JASON










"JASON" aka JASON804 an entrepreneur, recording artist, 2011 Playdate USAHost of the Year, Actor, Commercial Producer, Script Writer, award winning director, Author, Youth role model, entertainer and a NC A&T Alumni!! A Richmond, VA native "JASON" has several published projects “Road to Success”, “The VA show”, “Now or Never”, high energy singles “Happy Hour Mood Swing”, “Feeling So Alive”, How to Make More Money with Your Music (eBook) and the classic motivational full length solo project; (Born to Motivate...Raised to Succeed) preceded by the video release of the introspective "Earl's Gone Fishing.", moving over 7,000 units of JASON804 music. JASON has hit the stage after Jermaine Dupri and G -Unit on MTV's "My Super Sweet Sixteen", he has appeared on the same stage as LL Cool J in front of 10,000 plus fans, and smashed an opening performance for Lupe Fiasco in front of 3000 plus screaming fans. 2012 marks the release of new single “B.A.M” the appetizer to the long awaited full length album “Mind of a Champion! As an actor JASON has appeared in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, the award winning hit independent films “You Are Not the Father,” “Laying My Past to Rest”, traveling stage play “Who Killed Uncle Pete” appearance in “Stomp the Yard 2”, Most recently wrote/directed/starred in his first sitcom “The Crib”, and various roles for a few other independent movies. Above all the accolades JASON is a very personable and charismatic person, a ball of contagious/infectious positive energy a marketing dream come true, a Brand.





3375 Give Us Some Background Info As To Who You Are.





JASON [Laughs]




That’s a unique question well phrasing of a question. Background as to who I am…I am a hard worker…a hustler first. I am a data junkie, Cum laude Graduate,
rebellious, fun loving, extraordinary fly, charismatic, paradox from Richmond, VA. This JASON aka JASON804 the brand. Stamped as the Artist/The Actor/The Entertainer!! I’m a lover of creativity and of creating so from making music, to film, to architecture, décor, clothing design, basically; all things creative I am into and go hard for. A vessel of talent and information.




3375 What Sets You Apart From Other Aspiring Rappers?





JASON Number one I no longer “aspire” to be a “rapper.” I AM an emcee…professionally

because I get paid to do this. What also sets me a part is I’m corporately trained so I approach even the fun part of making music very business like. I arrive on time or early to my shows with my camera crew and media team. I don’t smoke I don’t drink but I rock HARD! I don’t have a posse or be 100 deep in the studio, all I need is me the production team and the engineer. Sometimes it’s just me and the engineer. This is because I know what I want, I know where I want to go and even when I’m experimenting musically I know what I want to hear. Another thing that sets me apart is my vision has been always been global never my street, neighborhood, or city. I always planned to go several levels beyond the basement studio. I also understand that music alone don’t sell music, people buy into a package a movement an idea of what they believe you represent and/or stand for. I approach music with such a formula…it’s always on purpose. So colors, pictures, images, objects, words, song titles, phrases, etc.Remember it’s always on purpose so peek the layers in my verses.





3375 What Is The Philosophy By Which You Live By?





JASON “Don’t put off for tomorrow, what you can do today” I always felt like my life was

moving at a pace that I must get it all out before it’s all over. I must say it, I think about someone there is a reason for it so I need to call or text them ASAP if only to say “what up” I’m also a real work-a-holic when it comes to this entertainment business because if I don’t do it who will. I don’t sleep, I barely eat…I’m extremely active and I go hard.





3375 Which Artists Have Inspired You?





JASON I’ve been inspired by different artist and entertainment figures for different reasons.

Musically inspired by A Tribe Called Quest, Redman, KRS ONE, Biggie, Eric B and Rakim Jay-Z, Outkast, Eminem, Michael Jackson, Prince, Kanye West, Bill Withers, James Brown, Hall & Oates, Lupe Fiasco. That list could go on, but that’s enough but I’m also inspired by Diddy’s work ethic, vision and drive; Nelly’s attitude, story, and placement in music; T.I.’s confidence; R. Kelly’s pen and ability to constantly reinvent himself. Maaaan I’m so analytical we could name drop this whole interview [chuckles]





3375 What Is Your Opinion Of The Current State of the music industry?





JASON People ask me that all the time and I tell them that the music business has been a beautiful mess from the beginning of time. The business of music and creative works is probably the hardest to get a handle on because you are creating value in something that ultimately has NO MONETARY VALUE. Your thoughts, your words…have no monetary value until someone says it does by marketing it or paying for it. So music industry is what it’s going to be. Consumers have more power now than ever because of the rate and ease at which indie music can get out. So if you are tired of hearing less than quality music…support quality music and artist. Share their music with folks, click the share button on their videos visit www.JASON804live.com and share an article or a

single. If you are not part of the solution then you are part of the problem and I believe that!


3375 What Producer Would You Like To Collaborate With In The Future?


JASON I like whoever’s dope with the music so it’s probably a long list but I think “Chops”

is dope, “The Ark” out of RVA, oh of course Kanye West because he’s probably my favorite creative mind and Pharell because he’s from Virginia


3375 What Is Your Favorite Movie And Favorite Book?


JASON Honestly don’t have a favorite movie but I love the movies. Probably the only time I can

get my mind to stop moving on my quest to score points is when I’m watching a movie. My favorite book aside from the ebook I wrote “How to Make More Money With Your Music” would be Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich”


3375 What Is Your Favorite Part Of Your Live Show? How Has It Evolved?


JASON My favorite part of my live show is the intimacy in which I perform and involve the

crowd. I love to connect with the people because my music is so personal that I want people to feel me. How has it evolved, I smile more because I know that’s my meal ticket. I guess part of that though is the acting I definitely use my theatrical training in my hip hop show so you will see an array of emotions. Also I’m still after all these years working to tame the beast inside me
[laughs] the energy beast…I’m a high energy dude and I just wanna go a million miles an hour from top to bottom. I can’t do that though, have to control that and my wind because I have a lot to say...you need to be able to hear that.

3375 Tell us about your transition from rapper To actor?


JASON Real talk it’s not really a transition, I’ve been acting and performing since I was about

seven or eight. I started writing rhymes when I was eleven. I’m a natural performer but also as I stated I’m a data junkie. I study my crafts and acting is no different, I study other actors and I think through the range of emotions we have as humans. So to answer your question I always planned to continue acting, and I never planned to be rapping my whole life…well being a performing rapper. Look out for more JASON on the screen under my government though. Look up my sitcom “The Crib Show” a comedic web series I wrote, starred in and directed. If I had to describe it…a combination of Martin and Seinfeild




3375 Would you consider yourself a triple threat?


JASON Definitely…but 3 might not be enough so just drop the “triple” and just consider me a

Threat


What Are Some Major Misconceptions That You Think People Have Of You?


JASON That I am conceited. Never been that guy, I’m aware but never been conceited nor

arrogant. Unfortunately this is hip hop and don’t nobody see you when you being humble. So you kind of have to be in that face like “Im the Sh*t” for people to give it any thought. Also that I’m just an entertainer…so very wrong


3375 Can you Explain what Playdate USA is for people that does know?


JASON PlayDate is an alternative to the typical night out. It's the most FUN you've had in a long

time. A national brand, we travel around the country delivering fun and joy into people’s lives at private events, major festivals, businesses and universities.


3375 Whats next for you in 2012?


JASON The single “B.A.M.” is out and burning all over the place locally, regionally, nationally,

internationally!! Available on Itunes, Android market, Cd Baby and anywhere digital music is sold. So next in 2012 is the album “Mind of a Champion” executive produced by Big Boyz Music (www.bigboyzbeats.com). Filming new show entitled “the Label”, Hosting Essence Festival in New Orleans, The Hoodie Awards in Vegas, ahhhh just stay tuned!!


3375 How can we stay update with you?


JASON Stay connected with me via my site www.JASON804live.com, follow me on twitter @JASON804, Instagram JASON804, and join my facebook Brand page www.facebook.com/JASON804brand or join the email list on any of these sites.


3375 Do you have any shout outs?


Shout out to you for having me, Big Boyz Music, Daerae Media and the Future because
we looking forward to what it holds for us

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR JA'AE

                                                               JA'AE








Ja’ae emerged from an eclectic and morally
strong background to become one of the most
sought after new urban suspense Authors in
the game. As an Urban Suspense Author, she
captivates her readers’ attention and takes
them on a roller coaster ride of emotions. She
paints a vivid image of each character and
leaves her readers eagerly anticipating the next
page.
Currently residing in NYC, Ja’ae is the CEO
of ESW Enterprises, a Publishing & premiere
Corporate Multi-Media Company. She is
also the founder & Director of The New York
Foundation for Abused Girls. A non-profit
organization that provides assistance to the
teenage victims of Sexual Trafficking. She is a

Motivational Speaker as well an an advocate for
the Empowerment of Women.
She received her education in London, UK. She
enjoys cooking, baking, traveling and spending
time with family in her free time.
Be on the lookout for Ja’ae, one of the hottest
new Urban Suspense sensations in the game!













3375 So, tell us a little bit about your background. Where are you
from?






JA'AE Hello 3375 Magazine! I am Author Ja’ae Quancei. I currently reside in NYC by way of London UK. I am the CEO of ESW Enterprises, a premier Corporate Multi-Media & Publishing Company based in Manhattan. I am also the Founder of the New York Foundation for Abused Girls. A foundation providing support and assistance ito the teenage victims of sexual abuse,






3375 When and why did you begin writing?






JA'AE I began writing poetry at the age of 11. At first it was just a hobby, however by age 14 my friends were paying me to write poems and desiign cards for them! I was making money and a lot of it for a teenager! LOL By the time I was 18 I began perfecting my craft and writing had become a form of release. By my mid 20’s it became a sincere passion! I realized God had Blessed me with a gift and I am humbled and grateful.







3375 What inspired you to write your first book?







JA'AE After years of working with Battered Women and hearing so many horror stories of abuse I gained a deeper understanding about the trials and mental spirals of abused women, The dead look in their eyes and lack of emotion in their voices spoke volumes of Scorned women.







3375 So I have to ask, do you ever experience writer's block? If so,
how do you get through it?







JA'AE Yes actually I have experienced long periods of writer’s block! Ugh!!! It is truly frustrating! One thing about it, you can’t force it. Patience is key and when the evil writer’s block creeps up I simply pray, meditate and wait. Everything is in God’s time.


3375 Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?






JA'AE Writing for me comes natural. The only challenge for me is pacing. My mind is constantly racing and my thoughts reveal themselves with a speed that supersedes the speed of my pen LOL!

3375 So let’s switch gears for a moment. When did you first consider yourself a writer?

JA'AE I first considered myself a writer when I started getting paid for my work. i.e.my poetry, so in actuality I considered myself a poetress plain and simple. Once I ventured off into writing short stories I penned myself a writer.

3375 What book(s) have influenced your life most?

JA'AE The book that has influenced my life most is The Holy Bible. The knowledge, wisdom and understanding I have gained from years of reading and studying the Bible are priceless. It keeps me grounded and focused and constantly reminds me who my Savior is and how much HE loves me. AGAPE love.


3375 What book(s) are you reading now?

JA'AE Currently I am reading a book called Proverbs. It’s a spiritual book that focuses on the lessons in the book of Proverbs from the Holy Bible. It’s quite inspirational and very uplifting. Sometimes I have t take a break from urban literature and become one with my spirit,

3375 Is there someone you consider a mentor?

JA'AE Yes the person I consider a mentor is my Mother! She has always been such an inspiration to both my sister and I. My mother is legally blind, however she runs circles around us all. She never allowed any challenge to halt her progress in life. She faced them head on and exceeded the expectations set forth by society! Not only that the core values and principles she instilled in my sister and I are the same ones she lives by. I love my mom!
3375 What would your ideal career be, if you couldn't be an
author?
JA'AE My ideal career would be a Criminal Defense Attorney as I am passionate about the rights of our minorities sitting in jail with hideous sentences for acts not comparable to those who are killing and raping.

3375 What has surprised you the most about the publishing
industry?

JA'AE What has surprisd me most about the publishing industry is the ease of self-publishing. What seems quite frightening to most is simply an easy process. After a few weeks of research I learned how to self-publish and turn my dreams into my reality.

3375 Do you have any advice for other writers?

JA'AE My advice to other writers is to perfect their craft. WRITE, WRITE, WRITE! Don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams! Don’t just up and quit your day job as you still need revenue to fund your projects. Looking for investors and attempting to convince others is time consuming. Always remember the best investment you can make is in yourself!


3375 How can my reader purchase your books?

JA'AE My books are available for purchase on amazon kindle,
http://www.amazon.com/Im-Betta-Without-Ya-ebook/dp/B007RZMZHW
Also on Bookpatch in hard copy delivered right to your front door
http://www.thebookpatch.com/BookStoreDetails.aspx?BookID=7486&ID=dbb9c3a8-bc3e-4881-a89b-62eec9841865

3375 Can you tell us little about the New York foundation for abused girls?

JA'AE The New York Foundation for Abused Girls is a Foundation that caters to the need of the teenage victims of sexual trafficking. Human trafficking of our children is on the rise. Our children are being pimped out and sold into sexual slavery. My foundation provides assistance to these young women as thry ransition back into society. We will offer self-esteem classes and group therapy this fall
3375 Where can girls call or go if they are in a abusive situation?

JA'AE If any young woman is in an abusive situation they can call
212-227-3000 for sexual assault and 800-342-3720 for child or physical abuse. They will
then receive a referral of a location of safety.




3375 Whats next for Ja'ae?


JA'AE
Next for Ja’ae will be the release of my highly anticipated Erotic Poetry Book “Melted Caramel”. A collection of erotic poetry guaranteed to ignite, erupt and soothe the reader! Release date is July 10, 2012. From there my current release I’m Betta Without Ya… will be filmed as a DVD and sold this fall.



3375 Do you have any shout out?

JA'AE Yes, a big shout out to my fiance Demetrius Williams (DemeGod) Thank
you for all the encouragement and support. Hold ya head my King!