Here is the second part to Drama Dupree’s Interview with Isis King. In this part of the interview, Isis discusses why America’s Next Top Model was not just a “fame” thing for her, her determination to be classified for what she does and not for what she is, and her desire to be a Pop Star.. Check out the interview below.

And if you missed Part I of the Interview just click here…

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of speaking with the incomparable and Grammy Award winning Macy Gray. After a 3 year hiatus from the music industry, Macy Gray is back with her fifth studio album The Sellout.  In the interview Macy talks about her new album, working with Bobby Brown who is engaged to her best friend, the prejudices that still exist in the music industry, Reality TV & being on Dancing with the Stars, and much more.

Check out the interview below and then check out her stellar performance of her lead single “Beauty in the World” from the Jay Leno Show.

America’s Next Top Model Isis King kicked off her Fan Appreciation Tour in Atlanta, GA last weekend. We had the pleasure of hanging with Isis on the Saturday of her tour as she did a meet & greet at Sephora Lenox Square and then later that night hosted Traxx’s Legendary Saturday Night Dance Party.

Our sister site, DramaDupree.com did an exclusive and candid two-part interview with the fashion and self-motivated extraordinaire Isis King on Saturday evening. In part I of the interview, Isis discusses her gender reassignment surgery, her life after America’s Next Top Model, and dating guys. Check out Part I of the interview below and be sure to subscribe to Drama Dupree’s You Tube channel at www.youtube.com/DramaDupree.

During a recent visit to Houston, TX, Singer/Songwriter/Producer/Actress Kandi Burruss sat down with Newue from YoBoiNewNue.com for an exclusive interview where she answered questions about her new music career, her experience on The Real Housewives of Atlanta and the future of the show, as well as her relationship with the gays.

Check out the interview below and exclusive out takes at www.yoboinewnue.com.

Myspace: http://www.grahamknoxmusic.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GrahamKnoxMusic

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/GrahamKnox

Twitter: http://twitter.com/Graham_Knox

Graham Knox is one of many of the great performers performing tonight at the 1Love1heart Haiti Benefit & Concerts. Get up close & personal with Graham before the show tonight with this exclusive interview.

01 Standing_By

Jake: So who is Graham Knox, what does she like and dislike, what does she do, who does she want to be?

Graham: Graham Knox is a dreamer and an eternal optimist. Which basically makes me delusional to some degree?  But hey, that’s what brings new ideas into the world… non-reality. Ok, so I’m off topic… I like people, people that make me happy, and experiences that help me grow; and this has been a hell of a year for growth. I strive to make my dreams real, and I really hope that it can inspire others to do the same. I don’t believe in anything being unattainable, especially in America; we have access to so many resources and opportunities at our fingertips at every moment of everyday. There’s no excuse for anyone not to leave this world a better place than they found it.

Jake: Growing up and now, who were/are your musical influences?

Graham: Growing up, we had limited access to TV, like literally, it was locked. Not only was the TV locked, but the outlet where you plug it in was locked as well. But we were allowed to watch Disney, so I know everything from Mary Poppins (major influence) to Mulan by heart, and those were some GREAT songs.  I mean that with every inch of my being.  Lots of old blues played in the house too, like the Blind Boys of Alabama, John Lee Hooker… And Nat King Cole was ALWAYS on, I knew several jazz standards by the age of 7; ‘L.O.V.E.’ by Nat King Cole was my favorite song for about 5 years of my childhood, until Brandy and Monica came into my life in elementary school by way of my peers. Hahaha…And of course old southern baptist church music. Now I listen to everything, and pretty much appreciate every type of music for what it contributes to the art. On repeat right now? Sorry, have to say my own stuff…

Jake: How did you like life in Nashville, TN and how did it influence what type of music you write and sing?

Graham: I don’t think I ever realized just how much it influenced my own personal music until I really got in touch with myself and was honest about what made me feel good when I sang it.  I’m southern, I have a twang, and I like it. I hope you do too.

Jake: How did you stumble into architectural design, was it more like a safety net? (Pending her response) And a master degree at 22!? Wow great for you!

Graham: It was definitely a safety net, but don’t get me wrong, I actually love architecture. But I came from a very academic family, so there were some expectations there. When I was in high school, I ultimately knew what I wanted to do, but figured, eh, architecture: it’s artistic and I could actually have a career.  So, I went for it. Its funny though, as soon as I graduated, I ended up in LA working with some major record execs who pretty much made it seem like their signing me was in the bag; I didn’t think I’d be working as an architect at all. But, I guess VH1 needed something for their Graham Knox Behind the Music special. (Let’s start a campaign for that to happen, like now…) It definitely hasn’t been easy, worked as an architect in Chicago, as well as here in Atlanta, not sleeping, doing music by night, meeting some of the sheistiest folks you could imagine…before getting laid off and thinking, you know what, I’m going to do what makes me happy, and just make it work. Period. So, here I am, working with great musicians, like Douglas Whatley of the Whatleys (keys) and John Tyler (bass), who have truly become like family.  But I’m still working as an architect part time, helping a firm get off the ground. DL Fields Consultants: for all of your architectural needs.

Jake: How would you describe your sound?

Graham: A fireplace, swaddled in cotton. Kidding, but someone did describe my voice that way… Haha. A little blues, a little pop, a little folk, a little southern, a little rock, and a whole lotta Graham.

Jake: A little birdie told me that use a live band! Nowadays people don’t do that, how do you feel this sets you apart from than the rest?

Graham: I don’t really think about how I’ll be compared to anyone else. I just want to present an honest look into who Graham Knox is as an artist, and I never really imagined my music being presented any other way. This music should make you want to sit on the front porch with your shoes off, call a community meeting, eat ice cream, think about life, and smile… through the good and the bad. How could you make someone feel that way with a track?

Jake: Have you ever feared taking on the stage or writing projects from other artists?

Graham: In terms of performing, I wouldn’t say fear, more so just making sure everything is presented honestly and is JUST the way I’ve imagined it in my head. I’m a bit obsessive compulsive, and very much a perfectionist. I’ve never feared writing for anyone, it’s fun to take on different characters, it’s like transforming, being an actress.

Jake: Are there any people you would like to work with that you haven’t yet?

Graham: I’d love to work with Sufjan Stevens, John Legend, Jack White, Lenny Kravitz, Bonnie Raitt, Cee-Lo and Sesame Street.

Jake: Are you currently working on an album of your own?

Graham: I am indeed. Lots of things in development, but I can’t really speak on those presently.

Jake: Have you written for anyone and felt like you wanted to be the one singing it instead of them?

Graham: No, like I said, when I write for other people, I take on a character. I become someone outside of myself; like Lamar Odom kicking himself for getting married so quickly, or Britney Spears throwing in the towel and deciding she’s just gonna be with women from here on out… I concoct stories in my head. But my own music is very personal.

Jake: Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?

Graham: I am working on a really exciting collaboration with Jake’s Ice Cream, an Atlanta owned business who is expanding it’s brand into music and the arts.  We will be doing lots of exciting things together, with me being the featured artist for the company.  More on that later… but for now, you should know that I’ll be celebrating my web launch at Jake’s, the Irvin Street location, on March 27th with a live show… And lots more surprises.  As far as writing goes, I just got on board with Don Vito’s new writing contingent, The King Pen, as a writer, and work with wonderfully talented people everyday. So you should hear lots of hits coming out of Atlanta this year… as if you don’t already, let’s just say lots more.

Jake: How do you feel about the One Love One Heart Organization’s mission and how does it coexist with your own humanitarian doings?

Graham: I think it’s absolutely amazing, and I was so glad that I was able to participate.  This was actually going to be the web launch party date, but the opportunity to help the situation in Haiti was something I couldn’t turn down.  The exciting thing about the collaboration with Jake’s is that I’ll be actively helping other artists like myself get off the ground.  Jake has created a wonderful atmosphere for creativity and community building, and we’ll be helping to fill a niche in Atlanta for artists that fall outside of the urban genre of music that is so prevalent here.  Like I said, not too many details yet, but its very exciting.

1LOVE1HEART TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR $10 UNTIL 4PM TODAY AT http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/10607.aspx. ADMISSION AT THE DOOR IS $20

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jcswagga

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jcswagga

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ITSYABOYJC

JC is one of many of the great performers performing tonight at the 1Love1heart Haiti Benefit & Concerts. Get up close & personal with JC before the show tonight with this exclusive interview.

04 Nobody Gotta Know(Clean)

Jake: So who is JC, what does he like and dislike, what does he do, who does he want to be?

JC: JC is a humble artist that does music because of his love for music, not for the money. My only goal in the music industry has always been to showcase my music on a major platform and consistently be able to provide quality music to my fans. What do I do?….I breath, think, eat, sleep, music 24/7. lol

Jake: Growing up and now, who were/are your musical influences?

JC: I had a lot of family influences because my family LOVES to sing. Anytime our family is together, we find room to sing….and fyi, I have a huge family. I’ve also had a wide-range of influences from several gospel artists to a lot of the soft rock/pop artists from the 70s to the 90s. I’m a huge Sam Cooke fan and Babyface fan more so because of their writing skills and the way they did “business” as far as having their own labels and only such a large portion of their publishing.

Jake: How do you feel you bring that “swagg” to the performances and your music?

JC: Well, I feel that Swagg is just something you either have or you don’t. Its just the way you “naturally” talk, walk, interact, etc. I think it just replaced the word “cool”. So I feel like I bring the Swagg into my performances and music just by whatever it is that I do that makes say “that guys kinda cool.” ha ha

Jake: Does your music set you apart from other R&B artist? As if to say your music is not the typical R&B music being played today.  If yes, why?

JC: Yes because all of my music is “clean”. You have to listen to all of my music to know that I don’t even sing about sex. Not saying that its right or wrong….I just try to challenge myself to write about something other than the obvious. So instead of writing about stepping into the bedroom, I may just write about how “Shocked” I am that this woman really has me settling down or just hearing this girl talk to me is like “Earcandy”. Even in the real world, girls like guys that are more indirect anyway. Thats why I think so many woman are attracted to my music. Substance…thats what Stevie, Michael, Smokie, Lionel, etc were all about.

Jake: You stated that even women want a variety; do you feel you are the artist that will deliver more than just a man behind the piano belting out songs?

JC: Oh yea….girls like a little umph sometimes so you gotta make them move and give them something to bounce to every now and them. Staying at the piano is too 1 dimensional. Even John Legend had to go “Green Light” on em. lol

Jake: How is the music scene in Nashville, TN and how did it influence what type of music you write and sing?

JC: Well my music was kind of influenced by having a minister as a father who told me it was either “clean it up or sing gospel”. Nashville has a church on EVERY corner…literally so that definitely influenced my writing style. But just being in a city that is responsible for so much Country and Gospel I naturally have a love for music in general. The Urban scene is simple…A LOT of talent, no outlet to take it to the next level. Thats what brought me to the ATL.

Jake: How did you become in contact with Yung Joc and how did being signed to his label become a reality?

JC: Well, I met Yung Joc while we were both artists at Block Ent/Bad Boy South. We’ve both experienced a lot of the same industry issues but we’ve always been cool even at a distance. So now, we basically have an affiliation with one another. He respects the fact that I’m doing a lot of stuff independently and so he just opened up his resources to me as needed….which of course VERY FEW artists would do. So I have a lot of respect for Joc. He’s also featured on my next single “Vote 4 Me” which I’ll be pushing around the end of March/April.

Jake: Do you ever get nervous before hitting the stage with other performers or even solo?

JC: Yes….I think everybody does but once I open my mouth, I’m good.

Jake: Are there any people you would like to work with that you haven’t yet?

JC: Yes, but its too many to name. I would love to do a record with Kayne West though. I love the consistency of his strong records. I also would love to do something with Lincoln Park.

Jake: Are you currently working on an album of your own?

JC: Yes, I’m working on an album called “Voicemail”. The album is basically done, but I plan to continue working on it until it makes the most sense from a business stand point to release it. I’m really focusing more on releasing at least 2 singles “Internationally” this year and building up my company No.2 Pencil Muzik, LLC.

Jake: Have you written songs for other artists?

JC: Yes, I’ve written for major artists, indie artists, new artists, local artists, international artists….a pretty good mix of different artists….i’ve even done some ghostwriting to keep the bills paid. ; )

Jake: Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?

JC: Well like I said before, as of now I’m strictly focusing on the release of these to singles on a major label which of course includes touring, videos, single sells, promo, etc etc. Thats really the only thing i’m dedicated to for this year. All of my energy is there.

Jake: How do you feel about the One Love One Heart Organization’s mission and how does it coexist with your own humanitarian doings?

JC: Well, I made it a point not to mention this but since you asked….I always do things for different missions, churches, and other organizations. I do simple things like take food to the homeless on the corner of MLK downtown and deliver it right out of my car….to the point the police officers don’t even bother me anymore. I take 100s of lbs of clothes to different missions and shelters. There’s a LONG list of things that I can mention but the thing is….I don’t think people should make it a point to mention ALL that they do. God will bless you for it and those people will be grateful. Thats all I need to know. but to answer the 1st part of your question, I love what the One Love One Heart Organization is doing!  Anything legitimately positive is alright with me and I want to be a part of as much as I possibly can.

1LOVE1HEART TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR $10 UNTIL 4PM TODAY AT http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/10607.aspx. ADMISSION AT THE DOOR IS $20

Website: http://www.taymaloren.com/default.aspx

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/taymaloren

Twitter: http://twitter.com/taymaloren

Tayma Loren is one of many of the great performers performing tonight at the 1Love1heart Haiti Benefit & Concerts. Get up close & personal with Tayma before the show tonight with this exclusive interview.

TIPSY

Jake: So who is Tayma Loren, what does she like and dislike, what does she do, who does she want to be?

Tayma: Tayma Loren is a lover of all things music. I’m an entertainer at heart and was born into a musical family so it pretty much runs through my veins. There’s nothing I enjoy more than singing and putting on a show. I aspire to be respected as a singer and of course to get some Grammy’s under my belt in the near future wouldn’t hurt either. I love fashion, double stuffed oreos and gossip sites (guilty pleasure) and I dislike cats, drama and that little bulge on the lower abs that’s so damn hard to get rid of! lol

Jake: Seeing that you are from the Motown city of Detroit, who inspired you musically the most?

Tayma: Even though I grew up in Motown unfortunately it wasn’t during the era that brought us so many of the great singers we know and love, but I definitely grew up with their music constantly playing throughout the house. The singer I’d have to say most inspired me to want to sing though, was Brandy. When I saw her first video for “Baby” I knew this is what I wanted to do…and she’s still my favorite singer to this day.

Jake: So how was it working with The Dream and then becoming signed to his label?

Tayma: I’m actually not signed to his label. Initially that was the plan but there are politics involved, as always, so as of right now he’s definitely going to be lending his pen and doing some writing on my project and we’ll see where it goes from there. As far as working with him, I’m super stoked about it. He’s one of the dopest writers out there right now and I admire his versatility. We’re supposed to be getting back in the studio together very soon so I’m excited to see what else we can cook up.

Jake: That song “Tipsy” is hot, who came up with the concept and lyrics to that song?

Tayma: The concept from “Tipsy” actually came from a song I did years back with a group called Lyric. We were signed to J Records for a couple years and had a record called “Hot & Tipsy”. Back then it was so unheard of for females to have a song talking about having a one night stand, but people absolutely loved it for that reason and still ask about it to this day, so we decided to revamp it and make it more current and that’s how we came up with “Tipsy”.

Jake: I hear your stage presence is nothing short of amazing, why do you think your command of the stage is so drawing?

Tayma: Wow. Well thank you to whoever told you that! lol… I just know what I enjoy seeing when I watch other people perform and that’s energy, so I try to give as much of it as I can when I’m up on that stage. I’m kind of reserved in my everyday life, so I use that as my release. That’s my time to just act a damn fool.

Jake: So you and your brother work together? What’s it like working with family on your solo project? Do you guys ever butt heads or argue? Or is it more professional and calm?

Tayma: Yup, Los DaMystro is my brother. We’ve been working together for quite a while now, since the group on Lyric I mentioned earlier, so for the most part its very professional. We both know how the other works at this point so it’s easy for us to get right into the groove of things when we’re in the studio. We butt heads sometimes creatively but I think that’s to be expected.

Jake: How would you classify your music?

Tayma: I like to refer to my music as “Hood-Pop” because it has a pop feel to it but its also something that round-the-way chick from the streets of Detroit (like myself) can get with and will be able to relate to.

Jake: Are there any people you would like to work with that you haven’t yet?

Tayma: Most definitely. I’d love to work with Eminem. I also think Will.I.Am is super duper talented and would love to collaborate with him as well. There are a lot of people I’d love to work with but I think right now those would probably be 2 of my top picks.

Jake: When can we anticipate for your album drop?

Tayma: We don’t have a release date for the album just yet and it’s nowhere near finished, but I’m hoping we’ll be able to get that out by later this year.

Jake: Where do you draw your lyrically content from? Personal experience or is this where your imagination takes over?

Tayma: I think the best lyrics usually come from personal experience only because it’s so much easier to draw from those and remember specific feelings you felt when you were going through a certain situation. The most important thing is usually finding ways of describing those situations or expressing those feelings in a way that hasn’t been done before. In my opinion that’s what makes a great songwriter.

Jake: Have you written for any other artist besides yourself?

Tayma: My main focus has been on my project so I haven’t had the opportunity to get on any other artists projects just yet, but I am looking forward to doing that in the future.

Jake: Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?

Tayma: Well right now I’m just out promoting this single “Tipsy” as much as possible and I’m looking forward to getting back in the studio with Los and completing the album. Other than that I’m just ready to jump on SOMEBODY’S tour and get this show on the road!…Literally. lol

Jake: How do you feel about the One Love One Heart Organization’s mission and how does it coexist with your own humanitarian doings?

Tayma: I’m so excited that I was asked to be apart of this show and feel that it’s very important to give back and help others in need. I definitely tried to give as much as I could with the Haiti text donations and now I’m happy to be able to “sing for the cause” as well. I’m just glad to see that people still giving. I’m anxious to get to the point where I’ll be able to do more for such causes on a personal level and am actually looking forward to one day starting my own breast cancer research foundation being that my mother is a survivor and it’s a cause close to my own heart.  For now, however, I’m thankful to be able to help the less fortunate in any way possible so I am very much looking forward to this event.

1LOVE1HEART TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR $10 UNTIL 4PM TODAY AT http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/10607.aspx. ADMISSION AT THE DOOR IS $20

1. How and when did the Youth Action Institute get started?

The Youth Action Institute was established five years ago (2005) alongside the creation of the non-profit organization, The Campaign to End AIDS. They wanted to have youth representation of the organization. It began with young activists who had an interest in HIV/AIDS awareness & prevention who formed the Youth Caucus. They identified the disparity of services & attention being shed on HIV/AIDS as it relates to youth/young adults and wanted something to be done. Youth HIV/AIDS infection rates were continuing to rise at an alarming rate. They decided to stand up and take action. They saw a need for a re-birth in activism. They hoped that in forming the YAI it would serve as a annual training and meeting to prepare the next generation of activists. At that time, there was no initiative similar to it. At the first YAI, there were 100 attendees. The Youth Caucus works year-round in HIV/AIDS activism. The efforts of the Youth Caucus are guided by the elected co-chairs. The 2009-2010 Youth Caucus Co-Chairs are Kimberly Jefferson & Anthony Roberts, Jr.

2. What are some of the Youth Action Institute’s accomplishments?

Over the past 5 years, here are other accomplishments:

* Here’s are two article that highlights our efforts last year while in Berkley, CA. The rally was planned in only 3 days. http://www.housingworks.org/news-press/detail/youth-take-to-the-streets/ http://www.californiachronicle.com/articles/view/107685.

* 2006, Youth Caucus held a seat on the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on AIDS. It’s held every 5 years.
* Last year, 3 members of the Youth Caucus were invited to the White House Town Hall Meeting with the Office of National AIDS Policy in Washington, D.C.
* Youth Caucus members have formed an LGBTQQI Caucus within the Campaign to End AIDS
* Youth Caucus members organized & attended HIV/AIDS community conversation meetings in conjunction with the Office of National AIDS Policy in Puerto Rico, Michigan & D.C.
* Youth Caucus members have presented at national & international conferences and forums such Sex::Tech
* Youth Caucus members have been Safe Sites with the Great American Condom Campaign
* Youth Caucus members have served as planning members of national/international HIV/AIDS groups & organizations.
* Youth Caucus members have helped develop the youth programming in Mexico & Austria with the International AIDS Conference
* 4 Youth Caucus members also been members of the UK Students Stop AIDS speaking tour.
* Youth Caucus has worked with MTV’s Staying Alive Foundation.
* Youth Caucus members participate in demonstrations/protests on a local to national level

3. Who are the Youth Action Institute’s target groups?
The YAI targets youth and young adult populations in the U.S. & abroad. We have representation from a large number of states and outer-lining countries.

4. What are the requirements to get into the Youth Action Institute?
Anyone can participate (between the ages of 16 and 26) and is encouraged to apply, regardless of past experience working on HIV and AIDS issues. If you’re passionate about working to end AIDS, then you qualify. The Campaign To End AIDS especially encourages people living with HIV and AIDS, women, and people of color to apply.

5. How much does the Youth Action Institute cost?
YAI participants are asked to raise $600 towards the cost of the Institute, travel, and stipends during your project. (A signed commitment will be part of your application.) C2EA will provide basic guidance and support through dedicated oversight from the field organizing staff; we’ll get you in touch and keep you in touch with someone who can help you through the rough spots and help you celebrate the victories. And we’re committed to providing stipends to help with food and travel during your summer project.

Travel expenses, food, and lodging will be covered for the entire stay. The only cost is the $600 we are asking participants and their partnering organization work together to raise to defray the cost of the institute. You and your partner organization will be expected to present a plan for a summer project by April 1 and fundraising by May 1, when it will be confirmed that you are coming. By March 21, all participants will have either raised the $600 or have an approved plan to have the funds raised in hand by the beginning of the institute.

6. Where does the Youth Action Institute’s vision sit with the long term goals of the C2EA’s vision?
YAI’s vision is in alignment with C2EA’s vision as we collaboratively work together towards HIV/AIDS activism, awareness & prevention.

7. How will the Youth Action Institute’s fight to end AIDS/HIV be instilled into the participants?
Participates hear from field experts, other activists, community organizers and guest lecturers. They are given the tools, knowledge and guidance to further their individual efforts in HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness. They learn about the history of HIV/AIDS, it’s current state in America and learn how we (youth) can collectively take action. The agenda will be finalized shortly before the conference, but will include 2-3 speakers per day, comprehensive trainings on advocacy, including media and action trainings, and organizing. After each day of teach-ins there will be opportunities for direct ways to apply the days learning. Participants will also have time to work with their partnering organizations on their ongoing projects. In addition, there will be time to brainstorm ideas with people from your region.

8. How can one fight to the end AIDS/HIV if they aren’t able to attend the Youth Action Institute, but still want to be a supporter/donor of the Youth Action Institute?

Sponsors and supports of YAI are essential to our efforts. Donations are encouraged and interested individuals should forward their contributions to:
CAMPAIGN TO END AIDS
YOUTH ACTION INSTITUTE 2010
727 15th Street NW Suite #210
Washington, DC 20009

Donations and sponsors help defray the cost to participants and allow us to provide individuals with scholarships who might not financially be able to attend YAI or raise their needed $600.00.

Although the deadline for application reads 2/23, applications will be accepted shortly after that deadline. Interested applicants should inform Anthony of their intention to apply. Applicants are encouraged to apply and fax their completed applications directly to Anthony Roberts, Jr., Youth Caucus Co-Chair at 1.888.274.6621. Questions regarding YAI can also be directed to him at that number of via e-mail at c2ea@arobertsjr.com. Youth between the ages of 18-26 may also join the Youth Caucus without attending YAI and can contact Anthony for more information, if interested.

Anthony Roberts, Jr.
National Youth Caucus Co-Chair ‘09-’10
Campaign To End Aids
P/F: 1.888.274.6621
E: c2ea@arobertsjr.com
W: www.c2ea.org

Don’t do nothing because you can’t do everything. Do something. Anything.
Colleen Patrick – Goudreau

Applications are now being accepted for the ‘10 C2EA YAI. Visit http://bit.ly/c2eayai for details!