“Patience is a talent but it is also the main reason why so many people give up early. This business isn’t an overnight success even though it may feel that way. It takes years. Look at me, 13 plus years and I still love it,” said Abel Lopez.

Born and raised in New Jersey Abel or also known by his nick name Amess is an aspiring artist who writes his own music but noted he has been creating music differently. “Many call it freestyling but to me it’s deeper than that. Now i just turn the mic on and let the words come out,” he said. At the moment he is working on a mixtape named “Take Your Time / TYT.” “This project is basically about a man and woman going through “love problems” in their relationship. The boyfriend happens to be an artist so it becomes harder for his girlfriend to hold on since his career is starting to take off,” he said.  fullsizerender_3

Ever since Abel was a young kid he was into music and then decided to rap one day. As he grew so did his passion for music and with the help of Youtube he taught himself how to build a recording studio in his home. Consistency and patience are two attributes Amess carries in order to continue succeeding as an artist. His biggest motivator is his mother who raised him and his brother on her own. In the music industry his motivator growing up was 50 Cent. In the mist of working and creating music a typical day for him would be checking his stats on social media to make sure his brand is growing on a daily basis. He also takes time to set up his daily promotions on social media and depending on how much is needed he will go to the studio to record. When I asked where his brand name Lamborghini Dreamz came from he said it was something he once said in a song and ever since it has stood with him and it is also his favorite car. He also clarified what the brand name means for his music career. “Lamborghini Dreamz doesn’t mean “the car” it means to live a life that not many get a chance to and just live the Lamborghini Dream. Not everyone owns a Lamborghini and not everyone is going to have that Lamborghini Dream in them,” he said. His music career has taken him to perform in venues from New Jersey and New York. If there is one artist he could open for it would be Drake because he is a huge fan and feels he can relate to his audience. 

The art of creating music has not always been an easy journey and was at a standstill for Abel. However, all that changed when his best told him about the show Empire on Fox which then motivated him to do music again. He appreciates how the show illustrates what goes into a record label and how a family can go through obstacles but still stand together and own an elite record company. At the time Abel is learning how to play the piano and drums and hopes to own his own clothing line and record label. This is an artist you don’t want to miss out on!

You can follow Abel on his social media outlets below.
Instagram @imchasingdreamz
Twitter @ImChasingDreamz
Soundcloud @https://soundcloud.com/amesslive

Last night I had the pleasure to support Ms. Erin Leary the owner of BeBuddhaJewelry on her blog launch. The launch party was at Maybe Sunday Collective a small boutique located in the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago. Inside the boutique there were tables which displayed the many different handmade BeBuddha accessories from earrings, necklaces, bracelets to rings and shirts. A photo booth was also in the mix and necklaces were the props. Ms. Leary also made key-chains for those who attended. When I asked Ms. Leary how she felt about her event she said, “excited and nervous.” Outer piece for Inner Peace is her motto. Ms. Leary has made her passion her business. The pieces of jewelry are bright and bold or soft and subtle and you can’t go wrong with either one.

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You can check out and purchase BeBuddha Jewelry  at: BeBuddhaJewelry.com  and make sure to follow her on Instagram @BeBuddhaJewelry

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Ms. Erin Leary rocking her handmade tassel earrings 

NEW MUSIC ALERT! The A.S.A Project – Little Lady (Official Video)

Stop what you’re doing and watch this new video entitled  Little Lady  directed by Jacob Cuevas. The A.S.A Project which stands for “Always Something Awesome,” is a spunky group that gives you both alternative and hip-hop in their music. This new hit is full of energy, love and surely an album you don’t want to miss out on. Make sure to also check out the rest of their upbeat videos on The A.S.A Project (Album) below.

Below you will also find the websites to Heart of the City and Private Stock along with their social media outlets. So if you’re an artist looking for exposure then they are your go to.

Twitter: @HOTC_TV

Twitter: @TheASAProject_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheASAProjectMusic/

Twitter:@pvtstck

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pvtstck/?pnref=story

http://hotc.wpengine.com/

www.pvtstck.com

Latino Fashion Week -Chicago Recap

img_1345This year Latino Fashion Week in Chicago celebrated its 10 year anniversary, “A Decade of Elegance.” I was honored to do media coverage at this 3 day event located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, at the Block Thirty Seven Mall. If I had to choose one word to describe my experience at Latino Fashion Week it would be “PHENOMENAL.” Each night models rocked elegant and sexy outfits from different designers, boutiques and stores. Although the event is Latino driven it is an event for EVERYONE. The designers, entrepreneurs, models, make-up artists and media were from different ethnicities who came to support and be part of the movement. img_1411

As I walked around taking photos I stopped to interview a few entrepreneurs that were showcasing their products. The first individual I met was Mr. Garrick Jones who owns Chica Fina Apparel. Mr. Jones mentioned that it was his first time exhibiting at LFW.  The apparel displayed were V-neck shirts and tank tops that said, “Chica Fina” in stitching and in rhinestones. He said his inspiration of having the rhinestone shirts came from his sister. “I was motivated by my sister because she does rhinestone designs,” he said. Mr. Jones stated the name Chica Fina was inspired to capture the energy of a Latina woman. He also hopes to come back next year and to contribute more. Chica Fina Apparel is sold at http://www.chicafinaapparel.com

Another entrepreneur I met was Ms. Erin Leary who is the owner and creative director of Bebuddha Jewelry. During her time in college she started making jewelry for herself as a hobby and would sell them. After graduation she traveled and lived abroad for a few years. While traveling Ms. Leary came across many different stones and beads. She stated that after college she had plans to pursue other dreams however, she decided to invest her time in making jewelry. “I started to do shows about 2 to 3 years with jewelry and in July of 2015 I launched the website and ever since it has been very steady,” she said. Her brand manager Ms. Amanda Gregus stated that Ms. Leary will be attending her first show in Los Angeles in 2 weeks. The amazing pieces of jewelry are all hand-made from bracelets, earrings to even key chains and more. BeBuddha Jewelry is sold on their website at http://www.bebuddhajewelry.com and on Esty as well.

Last but not least BrandBUILD (Broader Urban Involvement & Leadership Development) is an organization whose mission, as stated on their website, is to “…engage at-risk youth in the schools and on the streets, so they can realize their educational and career potential and contribute to the stability, safety and well being of our communities.” At the LFW BrandBUILD displayed some of their jewelry that is hand-made by the youth between the ages of 14 to 18 years old. “The idea is to instill positivity and showing the youth another part of life and entrepreneurship,” said Ms. Bowman. Angela Bowman is the instructor of the class and gives the students jewelry techniques on what they will be making. Not only is Ms. Bowman an instructor but a mentor as well. She said during the time when the class is making jewelry they sit around a table and have inspirational and positive conversations. I was stunned to see such fine pieces of jewelry from bracelets, necklaces to intricate rings that came from hard working students. For more information you can visit BrandBUILD at http://www.buildchicago.org 

Latino Fashion Week was definitely a successful 3 day event filled with positivity and FLAVA! and I look forward to attending next year. Thanks to the Co-Founders and producers Ms. Arabel Alva Rosales and Cesar Rolon Jr. for having an event that brings ALL people together to showcase their designs, fashion, art, and most importantly their CREATIVITY. IMGP9306.jpg

For more information you can visit Latino Fashion Week at http://www.latinofashiowk.com

La Verdad Podcast

“Quien dijo miedo,” meaning “who said fear,” is a quote that Christian Alequin’s grandmother used to tell him and is now his advice to anyone that is trying to pursue their dreams and goals.

Christian Alequin and his friend Carlos Martinez launched La Verdad’s podcast and blog in 2016 where they began documenting and telling stories from the point of img_6225view of two Urban Latinos. However, the journey began before that in 2015 when they started creating apparel designs. As time went by their customer base grew as well.

The idea of having apparel was driven by 2 single fathers Christian and Claudio who is no longer working with them. “We also had an idea to help out other single fathers and show them personal development through workshops,” said Alequin.

Soon after Carlos joined the group, their apparel line evolved and they began selling shirts that said “Cultivo” meaning “Cultivation,” onto their website Laverdadltd.com

As Claudio left the group to do his own thing Christian and Carlos revamped La Verdad into a podcast and began selling more apparel onto their site. As their site says, “La Verdad is focused on being true to our roots through originality.” 

Their 6 fundamentals are:

  1. Culture
  2. Tradition
  3. Art
  4. Community
  5. Inspiration
  6. Scholarship

La Verdad recently grew from 2 to 4 when Vanessa Figueroa, also known as Vfig, and Natalie Reyes, known as Nati, joined the podcast. The ladies give their perspective from a woman’s point of view. 

The group is mobile therefore, they do not have a set location. Carlos lives in Michigan and takes the time to drive out to Chicago to do their podcast recordings and Christian will also drive to Michigan so that the two can take turns traveling. The two have become dedicated to their work and keeping their fan base up to date with new shows. At one point during the summer the team went on a hiatus due to their lives and careers outside of the podcast. During that time their fan base would ask where is their show and what has happened. The amount of people who showed their interest in the podcast has given the group inspiration to continue on with their podcast/blog. 

Although the group has relied on viral marketing which has been working well for them, they have also thought about doing a street team and passing out flyers about La Verdad. Another idea that they had was to have a family podcast.

La Verdad has had a few special guests from Abel Muhammad a Student Minister who is devoted to helping out communities of color. Also, Adriana Almanza who you might remember, posted an “open letter” to Facebook as a response to what Donald Trump said about undocumented immigrants. These are just some of the podcast’s special guest to name a few. The group continues to reach out to individuals as a way to not only help their podcast grow but to also give their audience something new each time.

“Align yourself with positive people and go for it but have a plan,” said Carlos. 

 

By: Lucia A. Crespo

You can listen to new shows on LaVerdadltd.com and make sure to subscribe to their website. 

  • As well as follow them on the social media outlets listed below.
  • Facebook – La Verdad Ltd 
  • Instagram @Laverdadltd 
  • Twitter @Laverdadltd img_6258
  • From left to right: Carlos, Me (Lulu), Vanessa, Natalie, Christian.

“The Wait is Over – Frank Ocean fans”

Frank Ocean has released his sophomore album titled, “Blonde.”

That’s right four years later and now fans can finally feel at ease. After listening to his album on Apple Music I can feel those “Channel Orange” vibes with a slight twist. Also, if you’re not aware he debuted a 45 minute long visual album with 12 songs and interludes. I think you can call this A COME BACK! IMG_5800

Happy “history” Sunday! 

Going to spend this day learning about “Dolores (Lolita) Lebron a Puerto Rican woman who served 25 years in prison for spearheading a 1954 armed attach in the U.S. House of Representatives.” She faced many hardships from protesting against discriminatory practices against Puerto Ricans and more.

“I provide Marketing/ PR/ Event services to businesses, artist, and individuals holding private events & parties too,” said Brittany Black.

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Born and raised in Chicago, Brittany Black or better known by her nick-name Bree or Brit, is 26 years-old and is a Marketing, PR, and Events Coordinator. She transferred to Columbia College Chicago during her junior year for their Music program.  “Music is my first love and I’ve been singing and writing since forever, but after a year of being at Columbia my advisor told me that I would have to stay an extra year to complete the program,” she said. As an alternative, Bree decided to take a course in Marketing and from there she was hooked. “I felt like I already knew music so having a business degree with it would give me a solid foundation,” she said. 

I had the opportunity of meeting Bree at Columbia College, working with her at the school and now interviewing her on her new business.  

Q: What inspired you to have your own business/ company?                                            

A: I’ve always wanted to start a couple businesses, so now that I’m in Grad school, I felt it was the right time to step out on faith and it’s working out really well for me. I’ve been doing this for a while but for other people, so I wanted my own.

 Q: What do you hope to gain from having your own business?                          

A: I’m hoping to gain stability. I want to be able to work and shine without someone firing me. I’m my own boss. I also want to be able to give my clients the best customer service ever. I think that’s huge in business.

Q: How do you market your business? How are people aware of your business?            

 A: I mainly market my business via social media, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Facebook has been a huge help with me gaining clients. I have flyers too.

Q: Have you encountered any obstacles while getting your business started? If so how are you overcoming those obstacles?                                                                                      

A: Yes, of course. Events get pushed back and clients you think are serious end up not being serious, but at the end of the day you have to keep pushing. I understand it’s just business and I don’t believe in having emotions in business.

Q: Are you working by yourself or do you have a team helping you with your business?

A: I actually started by myself, but I recently hired on two assistants. 

Q: Do you have an office space if not do you foresee yourself having one?                  

A: No, not yet. My business is only about 3 months old but I definitely foresee myself getting a space soon, maybe after 6 months in the business. 

Q: Describe/outline your typical day?                                                                                    

A: Well, as I mentioned earlier, I’m in Graduate school so I check my homework assignments daily. I also check my social media pages, my company email, and my website traffic. I work on projects for my clients and I also promote my business/website too. 

 Q: What motivates you?                                                                                                                

A: The fact that I have so many big dreams that I am determined to accomplish. I will accomplish them, there’s no other way.

Q: Who has been your greatest inspiration?                                                                                

A: I have 4. My mom is number 1 of course. She’s a single mom who worked so hard to give me and my brother everything. She’s the best. Mariah Carey and Aaliyah musically inspire me. They are classic and timeless; they can’t be touched in my eyes. Beyoncé inspires me because she shows me that a woman can have it all. She’s the best in the game, a wife, a mother and she’s still on top.

Q: What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?                                                

A: I don’t really have any big fears. If I get nervous or anxious about something I pray about it. I have to trust God that everything is going to be ok.

Q: What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?                                                                                                                                         

A:  1. Always be persistent

     2. Take chances and step out on faith

     3. Stay focused

Q: What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?

A:   1.Consistency. There will be ups and downs, just don’t give up.

      2.Staying true to yourself. People will try to change you, but remain who you are.

      3.Networking is so important. This is a skill that you need to make connections.

Q: What are your hobbies? What do you do in your non-work time?                                  

A: If I’m not working then I’m singing, writing songs, sleeping, or shopping.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in the next year and in 5 years?                                  

A: By next year I want to have more clients for events and PR/Marketing. I want to have an office space and to start getting back to my first love which is music. In 5 years I will open more businesses, have more solid brand recognition, and be known world-wide for myPR/Marketing, my music, and my other business.

Q: In one word, characterize your life as an entrepreneur.                                              

A: Exciting.

 You can follow Brittany on her social media platforms below and if you’re interested in PR, Marketing or Event services make sure to check out her website and contact her on her site below. 

Thanks again! Until next time. 

By: Lucia C.  

FACEBOOK: Brittany Bree Black

TWITTER: Breeamore_

INSTAGRAM: Breeamore

WEBSITE: www.BreeAmore.com

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One on One with Rapper & Comedian Fatboy SSE

FullSizeRender (2)“My biggest accomplishments are hitting 100k followers on Instagram, having Meek Mill follow me on IG, Flying out to L.A. and meeting different artists in the game while being there.”

Tyriq Thomas Kimbrough better known by his nick names Fatboy SSE, Fats or Boobie was born and raised in Irvington, New Jersey and is an artist/rapper and comedian/entertainer. He describes a typical day/week by grinding hard, eating well and living happy by making people smile. “I decided to become a rapper and comedian because of LIFE in general and being a funny and happy person and also not caring what people think of me,” he said. His role models are his mother and father and he hopes to have 5 million dollars in the next 5 years and is living happy with his family. At the moment he is working with his brother Darius DK who is also a comedian and a few local artists from his hometown. The young Jersey mogul has taken his talent of rapping and has performed in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and L.A. Lastly, when asked if he could work with any artist and comedian who would it be and why he said, “Meek Mill because I like the way he works and Kevin Hart because they would TURN UP.”

You can find Fatboy SSE new mixtape at https://spinrilla.com/mixtapes/fat-boy-fat-bastard and check his YouTube account at https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=fatboy+SSE

TWITTER: @ FATBOY_sse

INSTAGRAM: @ FATBOY_sse

FACEBOOK: FATBOY SSE

 

By: Lucia C.

One on One with Rapper Ramen

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Ramen was born in Jersey City and raised in Union City, Jersey. At just 21 years old Ramen is an innovator and is currently working on several projects but his main one is titled “Concrete Rose,” which is scheduled to release this fall/winter.

I had the pleasure to interview Ramen via-email and get some insights.

Q & A 

What is a typical day/week like for you? A typical day for me would consist of time spent with family and complete attention to music. I’m no longer working at the moment so I’ve had a lot of extra time to focus on my work. My main concern is growth and knowing exactly where I want to go with this next project.

What inspired you to do music? Having connections with people, musical outlets and being able to travel the world while doing it.

Who are your musical influences? Tupac, J.Cole, Jadakiss and on occasion Drake.

What are your biggest accomplishments? I had someone once told me that my music helped them. Also, being able to bring positive energy into the world through music.

Do you plan on working with any local artist in your city? Yes, in due time.

How do you define Music? Passion, pain, and whole lot of fun.

Have you performed at any venues? If so do you have any performances planned?           I’d say I’ve done about 30 shows by now. I have no current events at the moment but I’m planning my second annual “Live to Inspire” event before the year ends.

What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years? International success and all around growth.

Where can people access your music?             https://soundcloud.com/ramenmusic1/ramen-we-aint-sorry-prod-by-kyle-travis

YouTube: RamenMusic1 &  Datpiff.

Do you have a website? http://www.DSNDInfo.weebly.com

You can also follow Ramen on his social media outlets below.

Twitter: @RamenMusic1

Instagram: @ramen_dsnd

Facebook: Facebook.com/RamenNavarro

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