INTERVIEW WITH UP AND COMING MUSIC ARTIST RED SONYA

Red Sonya

 When you hear that thunderclap in the distance right before a rainstorm, you know Red Sonya is coming! Hailing from the World's Most Famous Beach ( Daytona Beach, Florida), Red Sonya is definitely a lyrical tornado when it comes to her rapid-fire delivery, creative wordplay, and egnimatic presence. Even before music, she has always captured & fascinated people of all walks of life with her presence alone. She has superstar status/sex symbol written all over her. Men lust after her and women emulate and want to be her. She definitely has star quality.

Red Sonya has been around music all her life-her father was a saxophone player in a band. Born August 29th, she shares the same birthday as the biggest entertainer of all time-Michael Jackson. She adored & idolized the late singer and announced to her parents at the tender age of 6 that she wanted to entertain just like her musical hero. She did just that when she released her first record at the age of 12 with "Give A Dog A Bone" from her debut album "Doggy Style Funk" on Boomin'/BMG Records, a subsidiary of Jive/RCA Records. It peaked at #54 on the Billboard Rap Charts and received international attention. She took tome off from music for awhile to pursue & continue her education, even opening several businesses. The music seed took hold and began to grow within her again and she decided to put out a mixtape in 2011 called "Red Sonya's Street Gems" with guest appearances from Haitian Fresh, KLC (former lead producer of No-Limit Records), Cardiak, Grindmode ("I'm So High" fame) and Mattnificent, a fellow local up-and coming rap artist. The mixtap because a street success. She is currently working on her upcoming release CODE RED. Producers include Johnny Juliano (Birdman/Gucci Mane/Big Sean/2 Chainz), Kajmir Royale (Tyrese, The Game), & KLC of The Medicine Men (Master P/Mystikal/B.G./ Juvenile/ Snoop Dogg). KLC is also executive producer of her album CODE RED and contributed 5 tracks and is also her mentor & big brother. "He's taught me so much about the game. I'm just so thankful & blessed to know him and have him as my producer as well as on my team. You don't understand...Mystikal is one of my favorite rap artists and I've been a HUGE fan of him & KLC's music!" she gushes. "I've ALWAYS wanted to work with KLC. I love his sound!"

With hard-hitting, bass-heavy Southern street bangers like "Code Red," What They Need," and  "I Declare War," KLC provides the perfect backdrop for Red Sonya's sexy but deadly flow and aggressive, back-breaking wordplay. "YOURS TRULY" (her current EP on iTunes) & "CODE RED" has breathtaking production and is guaranteed to be platinum bound!

It's a CODE RED....you've been forewarned. The female rap game will never be the same after Red Sonya answers the call!

3375  Tell everybody your name and what area you represent?

Red Sonya  I 'm Red Sonya....I represent that 386....Daytona Beach, Florida.

3375   How long have you been doing music and what made you get into music?

Red Sonya  I've been doing music since I was 7....over 15 years. Michael Jackson was my inspiration as far as wanting to do music.

3375   How would you describe your style and best attribute as an artist? 

Red Sonya  Basically my style is street with a sexy edge...I'm just honest. People don't expect me to address certain truths in my music because they consider me to be such a glamorous, girly sexy female...well I am (lol), but there's a hardness about me that comes from my background and how I grew up. So my honesty & rawness as well as the lyricism makes me stand out.

3375   Tell us your greatest experience thus far as a music artist and why? 

Red Sonya  Meeting my producer KLC and meeting one of my favorite Southern rappers, Mystikal. They're family now. I've always, ALWAYS wanted to work with KLC. I love his sound and he's a legend. I've learned so much from him...

3375   What is the biggest challenge you face being an artist?

Red Sonya  The sexism in this industry and the respect factor towards female rap artists. I work my ass off, just as hard if not harder than the average male rapper and sometimes it seems to be not enough....but I like proving males wrong. I love the challenge of showing them that I work just as hard and I'm creative-lyrically I feel I'm better than most and it shows when they get intimidated by me. I've even written for male rappers! Lol

3375   Who would you like to collaborate with in the music industry and why?

Red Sonya  My brother Mystikal, for one. He got a mouth on him just like I do, lol. I would love to do something with T.I....3 D Natee, Rick Rozay, Drake, I love Snoop Dogg....

3375   So how do you feel you rank against top music talents today? And why?

Red Sonya  I feel like I can stand next to any of them because lyrically, I feel I'm raw...people love WHAT I say & HOW I say things because I sound like no one else. I literally write and spit everything you hear comin' out of my mouth.

3375   What are you working on now, and when can fans expect to hear more from you?

Right now I'm doing remixes & freestyles from local DJ's...I'm about to focus my attention back on finishing up my album, Code Red...its executive-produced by KLC. Whenever his schedule calms down on the road with Mystikal we can get back in the studio and finish this work....

3375   Give readers one tip about pursuing their dreams?

Red Sonya  Stay focused. Be determined, not deterred by haters and dream killers. Keep a positive support group around you...and learn ALL YOU CAN about this game. It can be real shady. 

3375   So what do you want to accomplish as an artist overall? 

Red Sonya  I want to do a number of things. I not only do just music. I have a shoe/accessories brand in the works as well as some beauty projects. Outside of music I'm a licensed beauty professional...I have some other things in development too, including a movie script I'm developing...I have a party interested in it in Miami.

3375   If music never existed, what do you think you would be doing?

Red Sonya  What I been doing-makeup artist! Lol Otherwise my second career choice would be in communications because people say I read and speak extremely well.

3375   Tell us your influences and inspirations?

Red Sonya  My Great-Grandmother. She built a small fortune from nothing with just a 3rd grade education (real estate). My mother for her strength & resilience...I aspire to help others in need because I've always been a compassionate person.

3375   What do you think of the “Hip Hop” music world right now?

Red Sonya  I don't. Lol. I listen to Kendrick Lamar and Cassidy tho, as well as Snoop, Scarface, Juvenile, Biggie, Lil Kim & some others...mainly old school. Not really feeling alot of the B.S. That's out there right now....

3375   What quote do you feel best represents you?

Red Sonya  "successful people find a way to persist." My favorite quote of all time. Describes me perfectly because I'm determined...

3375   What music do you have playing in your sound system right now?

Red Sonya  Kendrick Lamar. Cassidy. Trick Daddy, TGT, Mystikal, KLC, Rick Rozay, Juvenile, Future and some local artists I know....and 3D Natee.

 3375   I have to ask for the single men out there. Are you single or do you have someone special"?

Red Sonya  Lol....I never discuss my personal life...yes there's somebody special..but technically? I'm single. *giggle*

3375   How can business heads and fans contact you in the future?

Red Sonya  You can follow me on Twitter at RedSonya4Eva or visit my official site launching soon, RedSonyaZone.net.

     3375   Do you have any shout outs?

 

Red Sonya   S/O to my whole 386 family, KLC & Overdose Entertainment as well as The Medicine Men...also S/O to my 305 Family as well...R.I.P. To my Angel, my Great Grandmother Josephine. She still encourages and supports me to this day...even in spirit.

INTERVIEW WITH UP AND COMING MUSIC ARTIST JAHAID

JAHAID

 What Inspired Me To Rap Was Sitting Back And Watching Everybody Around Me Start To Get Involved In Music I'm From South Baltimore But I Be Around All The Parts Of Baltimore And There Was One Specific Time That Really Made Me Want To Rap I Was In The Projects Of Brooklyn Homes And I Heard People Freestyling With No Mic Just Some Instrumentals Playing Out Loud From There Car And Everyone Was Surrounding Them To Hear What They Was Saying So One Of My Friends Was Over There And Invited Me To Come Rap For Them I Hesitated At First But Then I Started To Rap For Them I Kept Flowing No mistakes In My Rap Or Nothing They Said I Did Good And I Could Have. Future With Being In The Industry I Was Only 9 Yrs Old When This Occurred Since That Day I've Been Trying To Make Music Threw The Course Of My Life I Got Locked Up But None Of These Effected Me And My Music Career I'm Only 15 Now Living In A Crazy World And A Crazy City Not Alot Of People Make It From Where I'm From So I Got To Show People That Somebody From Baltimore Can Make It. I Made A Group Called Finesse King Ent. That's My Team/Squad I'm Going To Get It Copyrighted And Clothed Branded I Intend On Going Far Into Music I Got A Story That I Need TO Share With The World I'm Going To Make The Rap Game Into Something It's Never Been Before Cause Right Now Everybody Want To Be Everybody And Fit In While Me I Ain't Got No Problem With Being The Abnormal One The Oddball Out Of The Group I Just Want To Show People What I Can Really Do I Just Dropped A Song Not To Long Ago Called Repo But Its Many More From Where That Came From Music Is My Addiction I Need It In My Life
And I Won't Stop Until People know My Name And Know My Story And Known Where I Came From And The Background Of My City If Anybody Knew Me They Would Know I Don't Play About My Hometown I Love Baltimore With Everything In Me I Just Want To Put Baltimore On The Map For Something Other Than Murders , Grand Theft Auto And Other Crimes They Need To Be Know For Music And Talents Now And That's Where I Come Into Play Just Keep A Look Out For Me I'm Lil Haid.  - Jahaid


3375  Tell everybody your name and what area you represent?

Jahaid  my name lil haid I'm putting on for south Baltimore west Lexington 2100 block , St.Benidict 2900 Block All The Way Down To Brookyn , Brooklyn Ave 3600 The Concrete Jungle

3375  How long have you been doing music and what made you get into music?

Jahaid  I been rappin since I was 9 but really started getting into it when I was 13 so I say just 2 years 4 real

3375  How would you describe your style and best attribute as an artist?

Jahaid   I think my style a lil different from every other nigga I talk about shit I been threw just tell my story on the way I live things my point of view on things

3375  Tell us your greatest experience thus far as a music artist and why?

Jahaid   my greatest experience so far was doing a show it really felt good to perform in front f a crowd I like it gives me a rush 

3375  What is the biggest challenge you face being an artist?

Jahaid  my biggest challenge of being a artist is staying consistent going to the studio day after day that's my biggest challenge basically staying dedicated

3375  Who would you like to collaborate with in the music industry and why?

Jahaid  I would collaborate with Boosie by the way FREE HIM I would collaborate with Jeezy I would collab with ASAP Rocky , Young Scooter , Lil Durk , Meek Mill , One Of My Local Baltimore Rappers G-Rock And Rocko

3375  So how do you feel you rank against top music talents today? And why?

Jahaid  I Feel Like When I Make It People Going Realize Real From Fake So I Feel Like I'm Going Be At The Top Not To Many Of These "Rappers" Live That Life

 3375  What are you working on now, and when can fans expect to hear more from you?

Jahaid  I'm Dropping A Mixtape Soon Called "Live From The Jungle" Go Look Up My Song On You Tube Lil Haid Repo Or Sound Cloud



3375  Give my readers one tip about pursuing their dreams?

Jahaid  If You Got A Dream Do Whatever It Takes To Accomplish It Strive Hard Stay Focused And  Don't Ever Give Up Cause Dreams Do Come True

3375  So what do you want to accomplish as an artist overall?

 Jahaid  I Want To End Up Being The Best Of The Best Ad I'm Going Try My Hardest To Do That I'm Going Put On For My City And Put Baltimore On The Map

3375  If music never existed, what do you think you would be doing?

Jahaid  If Music Never Existed I Would Be Lost But I Would Prolly Box Or Motorcross

3375    Tell us your influences and inspirations?

Jahaid My Influences Is Meek Mill I Really Can Listen To Him And Relate And Where He From Look Like Where I From So I Could Feel Him On That Way 2

3375  What do you think of the “R&B and Hip Hop music world right now?

Jahaid  I Think It's Cool For Right Now Everybody Talk About The Same Shit Though Its Going Get Old Soon The Game Need Change 

3375  What quote do you feel best represents you?

Jahaid  Really Don't Have Any quotes But 1 "If You Don't Have Anything Worth Dying For You Don't Have Anything Worth Living For"

3375  What music do you have playing in your sound system right now?

Jahaid   I Listen To Lil Durk , Meek , And A Lil Bit Of Chief Keef 

3375  How can business heads and fans contact you in the future?

 Jahaid  Follow Me On Instagram @southb_haid and I'm making a twitter soon so stay tuned for that

3375  Do you have any shout outs?

Jahaid  Shout To My Block Boyz,  Rico , Tyquan , Daquan , Leak , Corey , Tron , Tyree , Chaz , Tyrone , The Real Downbottom Boyz Wat It Is Juwan , Marquell , My FKE Squad , Dooda , The Whole Brooklyn Wassup Oh And Free Buck , Free Bam , Free Rock , Free G-Man All Em

INTERVIEW WITH UP AND COMING MUSIC ARTIST ENTRA

 ENTRA

"Entra" was born Brittany Simmons on February 14, 1989.  Raised in New Bedford  MA, she grew up with her mother, father, and her older brother, who played a major role in her life.  She always had a deep love for music, art, and poetry.  It wasn't until she was around the age of 9 that she actually wrote her first "rap".  She continued to write poetry because it became therapeutic.  It was easier for her to express herself and "organize her thoughts" with a pen and paper.  By age 17  a sub shop co-worker convinced her to record a few tracks in his studio.   Although she never did anything with those tracks, she loved recording and she never lost her passion for writing.   At age 23, right after having her son, she ended up in multiple studios that she searched for herself.  She began writing even more and even better, and realized she was getting No negative reactions. In fact, she was getting the exact opposite, people loved it. With that being said, she finally decided to pursue her dream.

3375  Tell everybody your name and what area you represent?

ENTRA  My real name is Brittany Simmons but I go by Entra. I represent New Bedford, Massachusetts

3375  How long have you been doing music and what made you get into music?

ENTRA  I wrote my first song 14 years ago but I've been into music & writing my whole my life,
just had a natural love for it

3375  How would you describe your style and best attribute as an artist?

ENTRA  My style as an artist is classy but with that little bit of edge and attitude I would say my best attribute is my creativity with the way i write and the way im able to make people see things through my eyes and feel me.

3375  Tell us your greatest experience thus far as a music artist and why?

ENTRA  My greatest experience so far is meeting new people that share the same love and passion for music that i do.

3375  What is the biggest challenge you face being an artist?

ENTRA  Being taken seriously and getting people to actually listen, especially as a female.

3375  Who would you like to collaborate with in the music industry and why?

ENTRA  I would Love to collaborate with Jadakiss, because, for one, hes my favorite rapper,
but also he paints a picture with every verse he writes & his style is just smooth.

3375  So how do you feel you rank against top music talents today? And why?

ENTRA  I dont think im better or worse than any body, every body has there own style I mean of course theres a few garbage and/or so so rappers out there making it big that i Know I'm better than, but ay, that's something I haven't done myself so who am I to talk?

3375  What are you working on now, and when can fans expect to hear more from you?

ENTRA  Right now im working on finishing up my mixtape, "Not what you'd expect"
which will hopefully be out no later than next month

3375  Give my readers one tip about pursuing their dreams?

ENTRA  If you got dreams that you truly believe in, keep anyone that doesn't see your vision out your circle, cuz theyre only gonna block your view. and at the end of the day, no ones gonna push harder for you than your own self. just don't give up

3375  So what do you want to accomplish as an artist overall?

ENTRA  Just to be heard, just for people to relate, i wanna go as far as i can with this and that's to the top.

3375  Tell us your influences and inspirations?

ENTRA  My influence is just life in general I try my hardest everyday to turn negative situations or feelings into a positive actions, I'm inspired by the reactions and responses of my fans and my own self motivation.

3375  What do you think of the “R&B and Hip Hop music world right now?

ENTRA  Honestly I dont listen to much new music, but theirs definitely a lot of hot new R&B and Hip Hop out there when I do hear it.

3375  What quote do you feel best represents you?

ENTRA  Live & Let Live

3375  What music do you have playing in your sound system right now?

ENTRA  I'm actually listening to Shyne right now

3375  How can business heads and fans contact you in the future?

ENTRA  Email: TellEntra@gmail.com  Twitter: @_Entra_

3375  Do you have any shout outs?

ENTRA  #1 my fans, also AP, Cait O, Gin, Jillzill, Caroline, & last but not least Mama Meesh, and anyone else that's been there to help, I love you all thank you for your help and support.

INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC ARTIST FELESHIA BALLOU

FELESHIA BALLOU

"Raised up in the hood, a bad girl gone good. I know that you remember me, but I’m not who I used to be." When you mix the flavors of the Streets, the Church choir, High School Band Camp, Accidental yet apparent Intelligence, Successful Corporate America, and extremely humble beginnings, you produce the raw and soulful sounds of the seasoned singer, songwriter and producer, Feleshia Ballou.

Feleshia B’s music is a mixture of Old School, Hip Hop and R&B with a raspy soulful flare. Her sound is often compared to none. Her lyrics are intended to inspire and teach preventive measures that can prevent mistakes and consequences from poor decision making. Feleshia does not want to use her talent irresponsibly, so she chooses not to sing about materialistic and superficial topics that so often flood the musical airways.

Feleshia B  is better known by the entertainment world, has been gracing the souls and minds of many with her rare, raspy sound and musical talents since leading her very first song at age 6 in the church choir, landing her first trumpet solo in the marching band at 13, and writing and producing over 100 songs by age 20. It was highly innate that Feleshia B would take a natural and vested interest in music, as her father and sister were both seasoned saxophone players; and her grandfather a US ARMY trumpeter. Feleshia B began playing the trumpet at 8 years old, and outshined the pack of mostly male trumpeters with her ability to master her tone even while playing to the side of her lips.

Growing up fairly poor, her family couldn’t afford vocal lessons, so she enhanced her vocal ability by singing her favorite Mary J Blige, Faith Evans, Whitney Houston and Lauren Hill tunes to her drug dealer friends while hanging out in the streets of South Boston, Virginia. She was first recognized professionally by Grand Master Slice, who was a very reputable rapper in her hometown with the hit song “Electric Slide, (Shall we dance)”. Slice immediately took interest in the young musician’s natural talent and recorded her first demo “Loving You the way I do”, which she wrote and co-produced in 1996.

Her street smarts coupled with her professional and seasoned ear for quality sound helped her to create music and lyrics that were both popular and tame. From 1999 through 2000 she traveled the east coast recording demos, staying with friends and family members looking for agents and managers that would promote, sponsor and showcase her talents; but often found herself involved with dangerous street thugs that compromised her future and freedom. Feleshia B often wrote and sang about the so-called love, hurt, danger and lessons learned she often experienced with her lifestyle as a naive young girl fresh out of high school. Though Feleshia B initially chose the street life, she found solace with her Grandmother’s values that always kept her balanced. She often says that she graduated from the hood, and figured out a way to get into college just to escape the hood lifestyle which was destined to self destruct.

The maturing, humble and hungry artist really began to blossom while attending college at Virginia State University, by teaching herself to play the piano in the music halls. By her sophomore year, students would gather around her in Foster Hall to listen to her alto-soprano tone as she would play new songs she had written and produced on the piano. During her college years, she worked closely with Bobbi Fisher (former road manager for Trey Songz), good friend Edrick Miles (co-writer of “Bottoms Up” by Trey Songs, and producer of “Love Faces” by Trey Songz), hosted countless open mic events with B Soundz and Fatso Skinny. Feleshia used her college education as a “back up” plan to finance her stemming music career.

She graduated with an Electronics Engineering degree in 2004, and was able to use her successes purchase her own professional recording equipment. In 2005 she auditioned for American Idol at Soldier Field Stadium in Chicago, where she was unsuccessful in entering the competition. She also auditioned for the Missy Elliot Project without success. Despite the rejections, she continued to record her own live demos which helped her to get her first professional songwriter contract with So Inkredible Inc working exclusively with The Inkredibles production duo in 2007. It was at Yellow House Studios in Richmond, VA that Feleshia began to meet and sit in on professional writing sessions with members of “The Clutch”, Corey Latif, and Marcus John Bryant. She has gained credibility and success by selling many songs to independent artists on the East Coast. Her favorite producers to write songs to are Lee Major Kid and Theo Masbeatz Edmonds.

Feleshia B signed and completed another songwriter contract with Blockstar Entertainment from 2010-2011, and is currently working on her new “Street inspired Inspirational Project” that she is financing independently set to release in 2014.

Feleshia B has a vested and respected mentorship with friend and manager Joe’i Chancellor. The two are currently working on a master plan that will introduce Feleshia’s talent to the world starting in Richmond, VA. Feleshia Ballou is affiliated with Writers Bloc Publishing, The Network Grind and Blockstar Entertainment.

She is currently being groomed to focus on delivering quality live performances that incorporate her trumpet playing skills, piano banging and straight SANGING! Please keep Feleshia B on your watch list for upcoming talent.

3375  What’s the first thing you would say when someone asks what does Feleshia Ballou do?

FELESHIA  Well, first I would probably take a few minutes to gather my thoughts since Im always doing so many things at a time. I would tell them that I do it all…and I do whatever it takes….but more specifically, im a mother, a successful engineer in corporate america, a song writer, producer, and a vocalist. So…im pretty busy most of the time doing what I love, and what I have to do to survive and enjoy life.

3375  How did you get started in the music industry?

FELESHIA  Stacey Rogers (famous for The Electric Slide) recorded my first demo back in 1995; that started it all. It wasn’t until 2006 that I got my first big break into the industry as a songwriter for So Inkredible, LLC; writing for superproducers The Inkredibles. I went to Yellow House Studios by myself with my Yamaha keyboard and asked if I could record a song that I had written for Trey Songz; they let me in…and liked my talent…lol

 3375   What is a day like in the life of a up-and-coming artist?

FELESHIA  Its very very tough. Everyday is like a balancing act between priorities and my passion. I have a very demanding career along with parenting…so my typical day is grinding and juggling (lol). Im an independent artist and I finance my own projects, so I spend a lot of time recording rough references in my home studio, writing new records, working on mixtape material for promo, figuring out which songs to record next, which ones to shoot a video for, and working with my manager to line up appearances once the project is ready

3375  What are you bringing to the game that you feel is missing?

FELESHIA  Im bringing "raw vocals" without all the automation; and im talking about things other than LOVE. Im trying to bring back that 90's vibe back when music actually required a "SINGER". hahah. Things have gotten way too pretty these days, and the content is missing in the music…moreso than ever. I just want to bring back some rawness and realness…I personally don’t like the current trends of Mollies and Sex…im so much more than that! Lets talk about Preventive Mainitenance, and teach these lost youngsters how to prevent stupid mistakes, and how to recover from making them. Lets talk about making that man wait for sex since he has ABSOLUTELY nothing to offer you…Lets talk about how God can guide you in a clearer path than Gucci Mane can…and Lets talk about why you think you're a boss when you clearly don’t have your priorities lined up…So to sum it all up, im gonna encourage women to be strong minded, and to drop his ass like a hot potato if he doesn’t display respect. Im gonna teach youngsters that life is about more than a fashion show and Mollies. Im gonna encourage men to rise up to the "Boss" challenge…if you a Boss…show me that God is first, you taking excellent care of your seeds and respecting your woman, and your businesses are legit. THAT’S the stuff you will hear in my records.

3375  Who are some of the artists that have influenced you?

FELESHIA  All artists have some way of inspiring me and my music, but Betty Wright, Mary J Blige, Prince, Tina Turner, Bruce Springstein, Aerosmith, Maroon 5, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston are my favorites.

3375  What is the most memorable moment of your career?

FELESHIA  The most memorable moment of my career was when I found out that the very first song I wrote professionally was placed with an artist on a Major label, and that the song had been sold, and paid for…and I didn’t receive ONE penny, nor did I know about the placement. Hey, sorry my most memorable moment wasn’t a happy one. LOL

3375  What is something unique/interesting that most people wouldn’t know about you as an individual?

FELESHIA  Most people wouldn’t know that I play the trumpet and the piano. They probably wouldn’t know that I graduated in the top 10% of my Engineering class.

3375  Describe your ambition behind your work as music artist? 
 

FELESHIA  My ambition comes from knowing the streets where I came from; and not wanting to return to that life. We went very hard when I lived in the hood. I have seen so many bad things happen, and I have seen talented, beautiful people waiste their time and lives on drugs, violence, tunnel vision and silo thinking. I have mingled with the wealthy, and I have seen the lack of awareness and idolization of material things…I have seen third world countries that are less fortunate yet more grateful. So the things I have seen give me more vision to help straighten all of this mess out with my voice. I just have sooo much to say; and to reach the masses, I need a platform, and in order to get a platform…I MUST have ambition.

3375  Tell us about your work ethic; how do you achieve small and large goals? List some goals you are currently working on?

FELESHIA  I am a very hard worker, sometimes I record until 5 and 6am, then get up to be at work at 9am. I go hard in intervals, because I have a beautiful daughter to raise, and I will never let any drive for money or personal success prevent me from playing an active role in her life. Im a professional project manager, so I approach all of my goals with a very specific plan. Smaller goals, I ensure that I put a memo in my iphone to remind me of significant milestones that I need to complete towards the goal. Larger goals, I get my team involved to ease the impact…so Im a fan of working smarter not harder…but in this industry you have to put in the work. Right now my small goals are 1-finishing my promo mixtape 2- getting more professional promo pics taken 3- ramping up social media for my music page. One of my bigger goals is preparing for my 1st listening party so that I can get feedback on the first cut of my project.

3375  Has there ever been a time in your life where you doubted your hopes and aspirations? If so, how did you overcome these doubts?

FELESHIA  Yes, when I was younger I doubted myself everytime I auditioned for something, and was told no. I remember times when record A&Rs straight up told me that I had the voice, but not the look that they desired. For so long, I beat myself up for not having the look or being what the industry wanted. Also, I have been rejected for countless television shows, and record labels, even recently being rejected for both American Idol and The X-Factor. When I found God…I was reminded that I was created in the exact shape, size and form that he intended…to live the will that was also designed specifically for me. Over time, my look was balanced by my confidence, hard work and dedication…and I realize now that looks arent at all the real image of me. My image includes much more…talent, humanitarianism, intelligence, dedication, raw talent, leadership, creativity, essence, and NATURAL beauty…you cant buy anything on me in any Ruby Red or Beauty Supply store…im 100% real…Im gonna have every Record label that ever denied me very sorry that they did. 

3375  If you could build a stage, environment and crowd, what would be Feleshia's dream performance? (Any stage, outside/inside, any country, large or small crowd – be creative!)

FELESHIA  It would be an intimate performance at the White House. I want a simple stage set with a live band, 3 background singers and great lighting. I don’t need a large crowd…but to perform for the elite of my country would be a proud accomplishment…because it will assure me that my music is positive, and can be entertaining to great leaders. I would love to see people in 3 piece suits of all races and nationalities out of their seats straight rocking to my music.

3375  Do you have any advice for aspiring artists and people around the world?

FELESHIA  Be real…don’t let any label create who YOU are…because it defeats Gods purpose. Stop hiding behind auto tune and a stage full of other people! Be yourself…and in time the value will rise.

3375  Do you have any upcoming projects?

FELESHIA  Yes, I will be releasing my mixtape this summer…Im super excited. My first video for "My chance is gonna come" will be ready in May!!

3375  Where can we find you at online? Twitter? Facebook?

FELESHIA  You can find me at https://www.facebook.com/feleshiab

3375  Any shout outs?



FELESHIA  I want to shout out God first and foremost for giving me this talent that I have. I can never forget my original music crew, Duane Whitlock and Edrick Miles...we all started from the bottom with a penny and a dream. Shout out to my baby Aasia, my sister Selena and my brother Jarell for always being my biggest supporters and always sticking by my side. Mommie and daddy for making such a fabulous thang! Joe'I Chancellor and the Network Grind for being my powerhouse and great friend!! Theo Mas Beatz Edmonds for being THE BEST producer and brother!! I love each of you…and I love many more of yall. If I didn’t name you…you know I love you, and I will shout everyone out when I get the grammy!

Thank you for reading! Please feel free to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

INTERVIEW WITH UP AND COMING MUSIC ARTIST J SASS

 J SASS

When most inner city girls are growing wide eyed over their first pre-pubescent crush, Jersey City’s J SASS was giving her heart to the art of Hip Hop. Penning her first rhyme at the age of twelve, she knew that her youth might be the cause of Hip Hop not giving her a second look. As with most relationships though, she was wise enough to know that she would need time to learn the ways of her new love, understand how to say the things that made it smile, that moved its soul. Taking her cues from artists like Salt N Peppa, MC Lyte, and fellow Jersey MC’s Queen Latifah and Nicky D, she honed in on the craft of writing and became confident that her first love would soon love her back.  Growing up in the concrete jungle of Jersey City, J SASS was no stranger to the hard work it took to get exactly what she wanted. Becoming Hip Hop’s favorite lady was no different.  “I knew I had to step up my game if I wanted to make a mark in Hip Hop and I was so overcome by the feeling that there was nothing that could stop me: notes The Queen of Jersey…a moniker dubbed J SASS by her scores of fans and always impresses media personalities.

Fast forward to 2013 and the love affair has grown by leaps and bounds. SASS gives Hip Hop her emotion, her stories and her voice and Hip Hop returns the love by giving her a worldwide platform on which to perform. The multi-talented artist has parlayed her reach and fan base into stints in modeling and acting. Creating videos that tell a story to staring in the soon to be released independent film SAMOT, J SASS has taken her love for Hip Hop and made it tangible. It is a love that her fans can feel each time she picks up the mic. It is a love that oozes from her when she performs and can be heard through the speakers whether she is delving into thoughts on beats about domestic violence or boding anyone who tests her skills on wax.

The young woman with a love for Hip Hop has performed in a myriad of arenas throughout the tri-state area and is extending her fan base day by day. She gives life to the mothers, daughters, sisters and wives who share their love of family with their love of Hip Hop. J SASS is an ambassador to her city and a proud mom of a young man whose delights in his mom’s gifts and shares her love for Hip Hop.

3375  The first time I heard you rap I was blown away. How do you feel about
all the feedback you have got thus far?

 J SASS  WOW I AM THANKFUL & GRATEFUL TO FINALLY BE GETTING A LO T OF LOVE & RESPECT . 

3375  What do you think sets you apart from the many new female rappers that
are popping up everywhere?

J SASS  WHAT SETS ME A SIDE FROM THE OTHER NEW FACES IS THAT I AM DOING THIS  INDEPENDENT . I MANAGE MYSELF, I'M A FULL TIME MOM , I HOLD A FULL TIME JOB & FULL TIME ARTIST WHO ACTS , MODEL & SUPPORT MY COMMUNITY OF JERSEY CITY . 

3375  What is the best constructive criticism you have got thus far that you are currently working on as a new artist?

J SASS  MY BEST CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM THUS FAR HAS TO BE MY SKIN . I RECENTLY SHOT A VIDEO & I HAD A BREAK OUT ON MY CHIN. SO MANY PEOPLE SAID THAT I SHOULD NEVER GET ON CAMERA LIKE THAT AGAIN . SO FOR THE PAST 3 WEEKS I BEEN WORKING HARD ON KEEPING MY SKIN CAMERA READY AT ALL TIMES .  ANOTHER IS TO CONTINUED WRITING PAIN MUSIC, FOR SOME REASON PEOPLE LOVE WHEN I JUST SPEAK FROM MY PAIN & HEART.   

3375  How do you feel about the female MC's on the radio today?

 J SASS  I FEEL THAT IT SHOULD BE MUCH MORE ON THE RADIO . I ENJOY MUSIC SO I LOVED TO INSPIRED BY OTHERS . I AM ALWAYS PROUD TO HEAR OR SEE OTHER FEMALE MC'S DOING THEY THING !!!

3375  Tell us about why you want to rap?

J SASS  I ENJOY RHYMING BECAUSE IT HELPS ME EXPRESS MYSELF. I USE IT AS THERAPY THE GOOD & BAD THINGS THAT HAPPENS IN LIFE . AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST I'M VERY GOOD AT IT LOL.

3375  Where do you draw your inspiration when it comes to writing your lyrics?

 J SASS  I DRAW MY INSPIRATION FROM THE VIBE OR MOOD I'M IN AT THAT MOMENT. NOW IF I HAVE TO WRITE TO A TOPIC THEN I TRY TO FREE STYLE UNTIL I HIT A FLOW I LIKE THEN I FILL IN THE WORDS AS I GO ALONG. SOMETIMES I CAN COMPLETE A SONG QUICKLY & SOMETIMES IT TAKES ME DAYS TO FINISH WRITING IF I DON'T GET DISTRACTED. 

 3375  I let a couple people  hear your music in my city. They all said you
have that old school hard core female flow! What do you think?

J SASS  I THINK THAT'S COOL WE ALL HAVE A OPINION , & I THINK THAT'S WHATS MISSING -THE TRUE ESSENCE OF RAP. I BELIEVE I AM HARD CORE BUT ALSO SOFT, LYRICAL  & I TRY TO PUT A MESSAGE IN MUSIC . MIX OLD SCHOOL WITH NEW SCHOOL & YOU GET J SASS 

3375  If you could perform in anywhere where would it be? And why?

 

 J SASS   IF I COULD PERFORM ANYWHERE IT WOULD BE NEW YORK CITY'S MADISON SQUARE GARDEN BECAUSE YOU HAVEN'T MADE IT BIG UNTIL YOU HIT THAT BIG STAGE. THAT WOULD BE A HONOR !!

3375  If you was on tour, who would you have open for you?

J SASS  IF I WAS ON TOUR I PROBABLY WOULD HAVE AS MANY FEMALES I COULD GET TO OPEN . I WOULD CALL IT THE TAKE OVER TOUR ...LADIES NIGHT EDITION .  HERE'S A FEW NAMES I WOULD HAVE QUEEN LATIFAH , MC LYTE , YO YO , LIL KIM , SALT & PEPPER , FOXY BROWN , MISSY & EVE.  NOW THESE WOMAN ARE NOT OPENING ACTS BUT THE THOUGHT OF BRINGING THEM ALL OUT ON STAGE WOULD BE AWESOME !!!! (HIP HOP DIVAS )

3375  What has been your biggest career achievement this far?

J SASS  WOW FROM BEING JERSEY CITIES OWN QUEEN TO BEING NAMED QUEEN OF THE ARENA  IN 2012 & NOW EAST COAST DIVA IN 2013 . I AM VERY EXCITED OF WHAT'S NEXT FOR MY CAREER . SKY IS THE LIMIT !!!

3375  We look forward to hearing more from you in the future, how can your
fans and my reader keep up with you?  

J SASS  AWW THANKS YES YOU GUYS CAN FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER @JSASSTRMz MY SOUNDCLOUD IS WWW.SOUNDCLOUD.COM/J-SASS FB- WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/JENNIFER210 WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/JSASSTV 

WWW.REVEBNATION.COM/JSASSTRMZ IG NAME IS @j_sassy 

 

3375  Do you have any shout outs?

J SASS  YES I DO FIRST I WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME THIS OPPORTUNITY. THANK YOU FOR CHOPPING IT UP ME. ( GREATLY APPRECIATED)  ALSO I WOULD LIKE TO SHOUT OUT MY CITY SATE JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY ..... MY PR KHALIA FOR CONNECTING ME WITH YOU GUYS. SHOUT TO ALL MY SUPPORTERS & FANS THANK U VERY MUCH FOR ROCKING WITH ME SO MUCH MORE TO COME. 

ALL THE ARTIST ON THEY GRIND KEEP PUSHING I'M OUT

 LOVE

  J SASS !!

INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC ARTIST FRIDA

FRIDA

Sing & songwriter from Sweden. My name is Frida Linéa And aka Fridelina. I AM a multi-faceted artist from Sweden. I FEEL extremely fortunate to have been given the gift to create art and music. I SEE the world in my own way, and that's what inspires me to keep going. I KNOW that if I want something done right, I have to do it myself. I BELIEVE that through music, people will come together and remain one. I HOPE to continue with it for a living. Thanks for sharing your love and support for what I do. Love and light until the end. -Fridelina

3375  Tell us a bit about your background and your journey.

FRIDA  I am a sing & songwriter from Sweden. My name is Frida Linéa And aka Fridelina. Music has been my main interest as long as I can remember. I compose and write my own songs. I also like to dance, but I have never undergone any dance or music school, I'm self-taught. I grew up on a small island in the Stockholm archipelago. Today I live in a small village outside Stockholm in Sweden. I started recording my songs in a studio in 2012 and released my first two songs in November 2012. "Famous" and "Find Love".

3375  What is your dream, goals or what have you achieved?

FRIDA  My dream is to share my music! I want a record deal and an own studio. Right now, I pay for everything myself and it is not cheap. Then I want to be more involved as a producer. So my music get the right sound. It is important. Music is my life and I hope to continue with it for a living.

3375  What encourages you?

FRIDA  The will. I don't give up! It feels like a calling from above.

3375  What resources do you bring to the table that makes you unique or stand out?

FRIDA  I have many ideas and are very creative person. I'm very stubborn. I am a perfectionist and it's good qualities in this industry.

3375  When did you realize you were ready for what you are doing now?

FRIDA  As early as 2 years old I wanted to be a composer and started playing the flute. I discovered later at 4 years of age, that I could sing and dreamed of becoming an opera singer. Later I discovered pop music and there I am today.

3375  Name at least one person that you know that you feel others should learn about and why?

FRIDA  Mother Teresa. She was a good woman who helped the poor and helpless in the world. She showed love in everything she did. She said; "I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples." And she did!

3375  When you fail, things look bleak or are not optimistic what makes you want to continue?

FRIDA  The will. The driving force to succeed. The inner voice. "I know I can."

3375  What keys to success can you leave for upcoming entrepreneurs and leaders?

FRIDA  (I say it again.) The will. If you have a business idea or similar as you believe. Then it's just to drive on. Adversity will come and go. But there is a part in the development. See the possibilities. Never give up!

3375  Can you talk me through how you work, what is your work process like?

FRIDA  Each song is unique in its own way. But I usually get a song in the head and parts of the text. It comes naturally. If I am out and not at home, I usually record on the phone. If I'm home, I record on the computer. As soon as I get time I start to play on the synth and sing the song and record. Then is usually not all of the text, completed. So when I'm done with the music. I fill them last text lines. Then I record the song, and send my "demo" to the studio. Then, I book time in the studio. And record the song.

3375  If someone wanted to capture the true essence of you as an artist — what song from you would you direct people to?

FRIDA  Wow, this question is really easy! There is a song that I actually work with now. "I am who I am" But it's not released yet. I hope to release it later this year. But the song is all about that. Me!

3375  What are your plans for the rest of 2013?

FRIDA  To continue to work in the studio. My next release will be soon, already this spring. I also have some collaborations with other artists.

3375  In the same vein, where do you want your career to be at by Christmas of this year?

FRIDA  That everything goes as planned. And I wish I had signed a record deal!

3375  How can we find you online?

FRIDA  You can follow me on twitter @fridelina_music

https://twitter.com/fridelina_music

You can also find me here:

http://www.reverbnation.com/fridelina

http://www.myspace.com/fridelinamusic

https://www.facebook.com/FridelinaOfficial

http://www.youtube.com/FridelinaChannel

http://fridelina.see.me/

3375  Any shout outs?

FRIDA  Yes, a big shout out to all my fans around the world who listen to my music and for the support! It means a lot! Then my mom for understanding and support.