#Thisis30 – DAY 55: Realization

Sunday thinking had me realizing it’s been 55 days since I turned 30. Whoa! Where does time go? Can someone hit the pause button please?

To be honest lately I feel like I’ve been going through some self changes. However, it seems like I’ve been feeling like this for the past year or so. I’ve noticed that I don’t worry or dwell too much on things I can’t control. That doesn’t mean I still don’t overthink things because as human beings that is totally normal. But, every thought you have in your mind YOU control. This is something that I’ve learned to do because thoughts can also kill you emotionally. I’ve also learned to be a happier person and to just go with the flow of things. Now many of my close friends and family would say I’m already a goofy and happy person. But, sometimes the silliest people hold a lot inside.

From being a kid to my teens, 20’s till now I have learned that this thing we call LIFE can change in the blink of an eye. Here are some things that life has taught me in my 20’s and how I feel now.

My 20’s have taught me growth, that it’s ok to NOT be in charge all the time and that it’s ok to say no, to love like it’s your last, hate less and laugh more, to be patient, believe in yourself and that you don’t need validation from anyone. To be grateful, remain focus and stay grounded.

My 20’s have taught me to be open, to not compare myself to others, to be vulnerable but still have my guard up, to be positive, humble, to learn always and take notes, to not give up because the hardest part is starting something but the finish point will be worth it. Don’t worry about failing because the best stories come from those who have failed but got up again and succeeded. I’ve learned to not take people for granted, to try new things that scared me before, to treat everyone equally, to refrain from saying something and walking away if it’s not positive, to help and give more.

My 20’s until now has given me the realization that I needed for myself. Life is not always what it’s meant to be and that’s ok. Nothing is written in stone and you are the author of your life. Everyone’s story is different and that’s what makes us unique.

I’ve loved and also lost loved ones at such a young age. Those early moments in my life has kept me elevated and a stronger person to help me reach this path of realization.

#Thisis30

November 11, 2018.

November 12, 2018 1

"I Am Not My Hair Series" "Afro-Latina" by, Artbysimplyjess — “I Am Not My Hair Series” “Afro-Latina” by: www.SimplyJessArt.com

Singer/artist Amara La Negra has been making a statement since the first season of Love & Hip Hop Miami aired on January 1, 2018. The viewers are able to know more about her and how she is empowering women like her to not give up, never change who you are and most importantly your appearance. She is shining a light on how difficult it is for women who are dark skinned to make it in the entertainment/music industry without being told that they need to change their appearance.

Born Dana Danelys De Los Santos in Miami, Florida, the 27-year-old was raised by a single mother who moved from the Dominican Republic to the United States in hopes to give her daughter a better future. Amara has shared some of her deepest moments on the show on how her mother worked five jobs to make ends meet. She also shared that as a young girl she attended dance classes, took acting classes, modeling and in 1991 she won her first award in a beauty pageant.

Amara is a Latin musician who has made music in the Latin industry and has worked with well-known artists along the way. However, from what we’ve learned from her debut on Love & Hip Hop, Amara is looking into breaking in the American music industry but not without facing hardships from being told that she needs to change her appearance. In a recent interview on the radio station the Breakfast Club, Amara discusses these particular issues.

“We come in so many different shades that it’s like, why is it so hard for people to understand that or accept me? I feel like there’s this standard of beauty that you have to look a certain type of way in order to be pretty, your hair needs to be straight and silky or if you’re Latina you have to look like J. LO…” She also noted, “there isn’t a Latin country that doesn’t look like me.”

On the show Amara seeks guidance from a well-known producer named Young Hollywood. She wanted some insight on how she can make a crossover from the Latin music industry to the American music industry. However, things took a turn when he asked her why her hair is the way it is. He then proceeded to tell her to be less Macy Gray and be more Beyoncé and called her a Nutella Queen.

As you can imagine the internet has been all over this issue and the majority are taking a stand with Amara. Although, she discussed how she was angry, instead she explains how important it is to educate people like Young Hollywood.

Since the show Amara has been on several interviews and continues to bring awareness to the public. She also landed a multi-album record deal with BMG and is the CEO and founder of ALN Clothing line. This goes to show that even after being criticized Amara does not let it stop her and get in the way of her dreams. She explains how she embraces her appearance, sets her self apart and is her own person. The Afro-Latina is empowering women and young ladies to love the skin they’re in and their hair. She notes everyone is different and that’s what makes them unique.

unnamed-2 — Photo by: www.clearlyfocusedmediaworks.com

Although, this topic is about breaking in the American music industry this is something that many Latinos and African-American’s encounter. The stereotype continues because people are not properly educated or are single-minded.

To learn more about Amara La Negra you can watch the show Love and Hip Hop Miami every Monday 9/8C on VH1 and or follow her on social media.

Instagram @amaralanegraaln

Twitter @AmaraLaNegraALN

www.ALNclothingline.com

unnamed-1 — Photo cred: www.simplyjessart.com

January 31, 2018 0

Logan Square Graffiti Photo Shoot

Hey Guys! So last Friday a few friends and I took the opportunity to have a photo shoot in one of the most hipster sides of town…LOGAN SQUARE! This neighborhood in Chicago has some great art and the nightlife is a plus! filled with restaurants, bars, lounges and more! The art in the area just makes the neighborhood stand out and gives it a funky vibe. From now on we would like to take a few Fridays to do photo shoots in different parts of the city and share all the wonderful places to visit. So if you’re a tourist, new to the city or even someone who has lived here for a long time we hope we can share some new places with you.

Photographers: Lucia A. Crespo (Me) – Instagram @LittleLulu2U
Richie Almeyda – @richiechicago – http://www.richallmedia.com
Bryanth Perez – (Drone Photographer) Instagram – @oceanskyhighchi
Kaitlyn Marie – Instagram – @kayariee

Check below the end of these pics to learn more about Logan Square and check out

Logan Square is an official community area, historical neighborhood, and public squarelocated on the northwest side of the City of Chicago. The Logan Square community area is one of the 77 city-designated community areas established for planning purposes. The Logan Square neighborhood, located within the Logan Square community area, is centered on the public square that serves as its namesake, located at the three-way intersection of Milwaukee Avenue, Logan Boulevard and Kedzie Boulevard.

The community area of Logan Square is, in general, bounded by the Metra/Milwaukee District North Line railroad on the west, the North Branch of the Chicago River on the east, Diversey Parkway, on the north, and Bloomingdale Avenue on the south. The area is characterized by the prominent historical boulevards, stately greystones and large bungalow-style homes. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logan_Square,_Chicago)

July 13, 2017 0

YK Model & Talent Agency Takes Over – Black Women’s Expo 2017

YK Management Model & Talent Agency took over the main stage at this year’s 2017 Black Women’s Expo held at Chicago’s McCormick Convention Center, April 7-9. Models from the Fashion Agency walked the runway on Friday and Sunday afternoon rocking some of the hottest brands. Founder and creator Yoshimi Kiosha, does it all on her own and preps her models for each fashion show. The 27 year old entrepreneur knew Fashion Management was her dream at the young age of 12.

“At 12 years old I decided to branch off and start my own fashion management. I remember recruiting people when I was young because I always had a passion for it. My Freshmen/Sophomore year of high school I had my own clothing line at school named Geishagirl. I would pick out fabric and my step-dad had a printing shop and helped me out. Through it all my grandmother was my biggest supporter and in 2009, YK Management was established. I eventually want to rent a building and make it a school and agency,” said Yoshimi.

Now Yoshimi takes on events such as, The Black Women’s Expo and her models walk the runway.

YK MODELS:

After the show, I interviewed a few of the models, make-up artists and hair-stylists on their experience at the fashion show.

One of the newest models to YK Management, 24-year-old Christian Pittman, explained how she was in a previous fashion show and Yoshimi was there recruiting and scouting models. From there, Yoshimi liked what she saw and Christian joined the team. Although, she has been modeling with YK for a little under 2 months, she explained how practicing with the other models has been unbelievable.

“It’s like an adrenaline rush on the runway but fun. We only had about a month to practice before the expo and Yoshmi managed to get all the models ready and organized. Her vision and method helped put everything into perspective,” said Christian.

24-year-old model and veteran Dominique Penn, has been with YK Management for a few months. Since she was a little girl she knew she loved fashion and has been modeling for 8 years.

“I watch fashion shows and I love to express myself with wild and bold colors. Modeling gives me a confidence and I enjoy walking the runway,” said Dominique.

Besides being a model for YK, Dominique has been doing lingerie modeling for about a year for Jewcee Boutique. “I’m trying to do different things and have a variety of pictures,” she said.

Last but not least, 17-year-old model Keyera Jones said her experience at first was nerve-wrecking but after changing and coming back on the runway, those nerves went away and she enjoyed herself.

“It’s a wonderful experience to be with YK Management. Yoshimi scouted me at my very first fashion show I did and now, I’m here,” said Keyera.

Currently a Junior at Simeon High School, the young model wants to pursue Fashion and work in the industry as a stylist and make-up artist but noted her main focus would be modeling.

ABOUT THE GLAM TEAM:

Behind every model there’s a glam team with talented individuals who help put the final pieces together. Each model had their hair, make-up and were styled to promote each brand of clothing line on the runway.

Freelance Make-up artist, Toni Mead said her friend tagged her in a flyer where Yoshimi was looking for make-up artists for the fashion show. Although it was her first time at the Expo she noted it was a great experience.

“I’ve worked with a WNBA player for a spring collection photo-shoot and did a hair show but never the Black Women’s Expo,” said Toni. The make-up artist goes by antigorgeous on Instagram.

Make-up artist, Jessica Patterson has done professional make-up for proms, weddings and now added fashion shows to her list. She also looks forward to attending the Black Women’s Expo next year.

“The energy was fast-paced but exciting and I’m very honored to have done some of the models make-up,” said Jessica. She goes by, _Jesstimeless on Instagram.

Make-up artist, Jasmine Martinez explained how it was interesting being at the expo and noted it was also her first time.

“I have been doing make-up for a year now and it has been very lucrative,” she said. Jasmine goes by Jayevelyn on Instagram

Full-time Hairstylist, Tiffany Shelly said it was also her first time at the Expo and noted it was fast paced but awesome. She explained how she enjoyed doing the models hair and eventually seeks to have her own hair salon.

“I hope to have my own suite and also build a glam team,” said Tiffany. You can find her work on Instagram at Tiffanystylezglamoursly.

VENDORS:

The Black Women’s Expo was filled with many talented exhibitors and it was a cultural explosion of fashion, food, health, art and music. You definitely don’t want to miss next year’s event.

Fashion Designers

Menace.Denimz
Woke Fashions
Merci 88
Eden Brand
Eptome Boutique
Edward Ark Collection
Addison & Clark
Hoop Legend
Merci 88
Khamryn B
Her Treasures Boutique
Idrine Bishweka
Gidi
CBN

YK MANAGEMENT MODEL & TALENT AGENCY: www.ykmodelandtalent.com

April 12, 2017 0

New Music Video -“Live Like This” Press Release

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZU04C5ABE4o

February 17, 2017 0

Canadian Rapper/R&B Artist on the Move

Outside of music Dwayne “Salez” Lespoir is a local promoter in his city which started off as a way to showcase his talent. However, it became bigger than that and he soon found himself bringing in well-known artists. “No one wanted to give me that chance so I had to do it myself,” said Salez

Born and raised in Montreal, Canada the 28 year-old rapper/singer of Guyanese descent has written and produced his music. He also takes the time to write music for up and coming artists. In 2010 his mixtape “Hard Work Pays Off,” and his single, “Headlock,” was highly acclaimed and received a great deal of attention. But his hard work doesn’t stop there, Salez recently shot a music video in Jamaica named, “Live Like This,” and is anticipated to make its debut very soon.

Salez continues to write music and feels it is about expressing yourself. “If I hear a hip-hop, jazz or pop beat and it takes me to someplace I write to it. To me music is not about having a lane but it’s more about being able to connect with different people all around the world,” he said.

He describes his music as a way to give a vivid picture of himself, his life and struggles he’s encountered. Although Salez has set some ways for himself it was not always easy and hit a few bumps down the road. He has encountered closed doors, other artists not wanting to collaborate with him, DJ’s who refused to play his songs and “friends” who were not a support system. Through it all he continues to overcome obstacles and works for what he loves. “I’ll prove everyone wrong because being the underdog was something I always loved. So I never let it phase me or discourage me cause I know my time is moments away,” he said.

Some of Salez inspirations growing up were Biggie Smalls and Fabolous. Other influences include Chris Brown, Eric Bellinger and Jeremih and noted he is a big R&B lover. If he had the chance to collaborate with a known artist or producer he admits it would be Fabolous because of the status he has maintained for years and managed to stay relevant year after year.

When I asked Salez where does he see himself in 5 years and hopes to accomplish he said, “I definitely see myself writing hits for more famous celebrities. Headlining my own show and to have a song on the top 10 Billboard Charts.

You can listen to Salez music and follow him at:

http://www.salez.ca , www.instagram.com/salez514 , www.snapchat.com/salez514 , www.YOUTUBE.COM/SALEZ514 , www.FACEBOOK.COM.Salez514 , WWW.Twitter.com/salez514 , www.soundcloud.com/SALEZMTL

February 14, 2017 0

J.Cole with the TAKEOVER

If you haven’t heard yet J.Cole is set to release his new album titled, “4 Your Eyez Only,” on December 9. He also provided a 40 minute documentary titled, “Eyez,” which previewed some of his new music from his album. One song in particular has everyone talking. The music video, “False Prophets,” is giving people the impression that he is referring to Kanye West and his mental break down. In one part of the song he says…

Ego in charge of every move, he’s a start

And we can’t look away due to the days that he

caught our hearts

He’s falling apart, but we deny it

Justifying that half ass shit he dropped, we always

buy it.

When he tells us he a genius but it’s clearer lately

It’s been hard for him to look into the mirror lately

There was a time when this nigga was my here,

maybe

That’s the reason why his fall from grace is hard to take.

The Dreamville leader always produces strong poetic lyrics and it is no wonder why his fans are raving about his new project. I’m a fan myself and after seeing him perform at Lollapalooza this past summer I definitely can’t wait to get my hands on his new album this Friday because it, “BE LIKE THIS.”

December 3, 2016 0

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.