LUCK OCCURS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS
OPPORTUNITIES
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CONTENTS MARCH 2021 BELLA BLAQ BROWN SHUGA Butta B Rocka Jonathan Gatsby Glynis Albright Durell Peart Glenn Marsden Malik Wilson Auti Angel Nagg Da Youngin Razi TV Marian Johnson 1000 Wattz TANIA RICHARDSON Jessicha Tyler Brandon Lewis Jessica RAY Jermani Mincey Vashawn Mitchell Jimmy Maynes Irene Eclavea Nikki Brown of Altwell
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Founder – Cece Hymes
W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovate in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management. Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken. We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!
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With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,
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“ Apart from music in my spare time I pray and study the word of God, I love to read a lot of mind books, I love to cook as well and spend time with family and friends.”
BROWN SHUGA
in the music industry would be being independent as an artist and having the freedom to make good music and feed my fans with the right sound. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years? A. The next 3 years from now I see myself putting Africa on the map and taking dancehall music to the next level. Q. Tell us some things you do in your spare time?
Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who Brown Shuga is and where you’re from? A. My name is Aliu Oshiomale Jason.M. also known as Brown Shuga, I am a reggae dancehall artist from Africa. Q. For those who would like to get a feel for your sound, which song of yours would you pick to recommend. A. The song I would pick to recommend would be “NO STRESS” which was my first single in the year 2020 and why because it is like an introduction of my new sound to the world.
no matter what life throws at us we will never give in because we are champions Q. How would you compare the culture and working with different artist and producers in Africa vs U.S? A. Working with an artist or producer outside Africa and working with an artist or producer from Africa is different because it’s like uniting different cultures through music and also breaking new grounds. Q. What is one of your greatest accomplishment you had being in the music industry? A. My greatest accomplishment
A. Apart from music in my spare time I pray and study the word of God, I love to read a lot of mind books, I love to cook as well and spend time with family and friends. Q. Are you working on any new projects right now? A. I will be dropping 2 new singles titled CHAMPION SOUND and UNU ZIMMI [bounce] before the year 2021 runs out. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me on my social media account on : Instagram[@brownshugaman] Twitter[@brownshugaman_] For business you can send us a email: Brownshugaliu10@gmail. com, Rsmnation101@gmail.com.
Q. How is the music in Africa different than the U.S. music? A. The only difference would be the sound, in Africa we are well known for afrobeat. Q. Tell us about your new single and the inspiration behind it? A. One of the new single I would be putting out soon which will be the biggest song to come out from Africa is titled “CHAMPION SOUND” and the inspiration behind the song is that it’s actually that sound that awaken and arose the champion in you and letting you know that there’s greatness in every man and
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“I’m actually very goofy and love to laugh. Also, ironically, I’m honestly bashful when it comes to one on one intimate type settings, but put me on a major stage, and I’m fine smh."
Butta B Rocka
one way, it’s not always smooth- it has jagged edges. Love is Strange! The Motivation behind it was to create a song that felt great and was authentic to who we are (referring to my writer partner/artist feature Homer Mc and I. Also, I represent the ATL and feel that this song gives you a vibe of back in the day with a new school hint. Q. How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?
Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is “Butta B-Rocka” I am an independent international recording artist and songwriter. The best-selling author of “Fear of Failure, Fear of Not Trying”, a playwright, for “I Cheated So What”, Editor- in-Chief for “Defiant Ones Teen Magazine”, and CEO founder of “Artists Rock the MIC Foundation”. Q. What inspired you to make music? A. I’ve had a love for music since I was four years old after seeing Diana Ross on TV! I had never seen anyone so glamorous; I saw the look of the crowd singing, smiling and cheering her on and I knew then, that was something I wanted to do when I grew up. Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create? A. My music is diverse- I love all genre’s – so my projects are typically a melting pot. My new single “Strange Luv” is alternative pop soul. Q. Who are some artists you would like to collab with? A. I would love to collaborate with Brandy, Chrisette Michele, Timberland, Missy Elliott, OutKast, Tank, Janelle Monae, and Joe to name a few. Q. Tell us about your new single “Strange Luv” and the Motivation behind it? A. I’m super excited about my new single! You know Love is messy, it’s unconventional, there is no straight
A. The internet has been a blessing and sometimes a curse. The blessings, especially for an independent artist, like myself is that it allowed us to have a fair chance of getting distribution. You know, back in the day, you would not have been able to get your music played on digital platforms without having a major label behind you. We now have that opportunity to have our music shared globally on Apple Music, Pandora, IHeart Radio, etc. but the flip side. I also think people’s talents are being overlooked sometimes by not having the numbers behind them on social media to compete with the majors. Or some people are becoming Instagram or TikTok famous not based on substance- but based on their looks or acting silly to go viral. Think about it, every single day there are millions of posts, tweets, stories shared, how does one truly stand out? It’s much easier if you are a major, they already have followers but for newer artist or indie artist, it’s a bit tougher to stand out at times. Q. What has been your biggest accomplishment being a music artist? A. I have the amazing pleasure to have worked with some incredible artists; projects doing demos, recordings, or live shows. Such as; Akon, Nas, Kanye West, Janet Jackson, Collective Soul, Zac Brown, and more. These were all amazing experiences, and I have toured the world, seeing beautiful places and meeting some really dope people. But nothing compares to the feeling of completing your own projects. You know music is very personal. We are vulnerable, letting people into our thoughts, our worlds, and experiences of pain and Love and hoping that our listeners support us and accept us.
A. I’m actually very goofy and love to laugh. Also, ironically, I’m honestly bashful when it comes to one on one intimate type settings, but put me on a major stage, and I’m fine smh. Q. Out of all the places you have been in the world, what has been your most memorable one? A. My most memorable moment is my first tour to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was a fantastic experience. Ironically, it was nothing like the pictures I had envisioned in my head. It was full of riches, and they also had areas were the poverty was unthinkable, none like I had seen before. I had never seen people actually living in tin huts or mud homes; that was new to me. Children had an appreciation for simple things like pens and flip flops, something we often take for granted, I also saw pride, pride for their country and heritage. It was a tour I will always remember, and I hope to go back there. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me at buttabrocka.com. IG @ buttabrocka Facebook @buttabrockamusic YouTube @buttabrocka Twitter @buttabrocka
Q. What is one fun fact about yourself?
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Jermani Mincey “ I have 40 LOL dolls, 2 American Girl dolls, & 6 Baby Alive dolls. I love playing with my dolls because they make me happy!. ”
Q. Tell us a little information about your single “ Friend Girl” and “Episode” and the meaning behind it? A. Friend Girls is about happiness and spending time with my family and friends. Episode is about being bothered by my siblings and how I feel sometimes about doing school work. Q. Who are your biggest supporters? A. My parents and family are my biggest supporters.
Q. Let’s talk about your doll collection? A. I have 40 LOL dolls, 2 American Girl dolls, & 6 Baby Alive dolls. I love playing with my dolls because they make me happy! Q. So we heard you have quite the YouTube and TikTok following, can you tell us more about your content? A. My content on social media shows my personality, how I
interact with my family, and my music. You get a chance to hang with me! Q. How does it feel to give back to the community at such a young age? A. It feels great to give back because I love bringing joy to others. I have seen my parents give back so I wanted to make sure I do as well! Q. If you could work with anyone who would you choose? A. Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Q. What made you want to be a music artist? A. I wanted to be a music artist because I was inspired by my dad. My dad is great at music and I see how happy it makes him. I tried it and it made me happy too! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can check me out on all social media platforms: @jermanimincey and my website: www.jermanimincey.com
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Vashawn Mitchell
“ I do a lot of reading (more than listening to music) I allow God to speak to me about everything and from there songs are born.”
Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is VaShawn Mitchell and for more than 20 years, I have had the privilege to minister as an artist and producer in the Gospel Music Industry Q. What motivated you to become a music artist? A. I always knew I wanted to allow God to use my gifts and talents to create something that would impact lives around the world. For a season that assignment was lived out in my local church. Then God placed in me the desire to spread His message beyond the four walls of my local church and my journey as an artist began. Q. Out of all the songs you have which one would you consider your favorite? A. That is a difficult question especially having made as much music as I have over my career. I would have to say “Now Be Restored”. It is a reminder to me that even when we have to go through difficult situations – God will never leave us destitute. He never allows suffering for no reason. We will always come out as victorious.
Christmas evoked feelings of pain and isolation. I wanted to create a body of music that allowed us to see this time as one of celebration – even though different what had been our tradition. I wanted to inspire us to take back our holiday and make it about worship – especially now that a lot of the other distractions had been stripped away. Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create? A. I make gospel music typically. More importantly I create music that is meant to inspire and encourage listeners. Q. Who are some people that have been a big inspiration in your life? A. I have been blessed to be mentored many of the great voices in our genre. BeBe Winans and Donald Lawrence stand out as two who have encouraged, counseled, rebuked, guided and celebrated with me over the years. Q. Can you tell us one of your most memorable experiences you have had in the music industry? A. I love traveling overseas. I would say recording in South Africa remains one of my most memorable experiences. It challenged my faith more than any other project, but also allowed me to see God show Himself faithful in ways I could never imagine. Q. What is something you would like to change in the music world?
Q. Tell us about “Home for Christmas” and the motivation behind it? A. This pandemic redefined the concept of “home” for our world. In 2020 it became our school, office, hospital, church, gym you name it. For many the idea of being Home for
A. I believe we need to move back to a place of increased regard our genre. This is an assignment given to us by God. We need to steward (not manage) our message in a way that draws not alienates. Our acceptance has to come from a definition of success that goes beyond the constructs of “industry”. The industry is important,
necessary and vital – but should not be our only standard. Q. What is your creative process like behind the scenes? A. Most of my music is created when I be listening to the questions of the earth and the answers of heaven. I do a lot of reading (more than listening to music) I allow God to speak to me about everything and from there songs are born. Q. Are there any projects or events you are working on for 2021? A. Yes. Again God has been speaking and I am writing what He is saying to be released during this time. Each season requires a different message and what he is sharing now I believe will help the listeners continue to believe God with a complete assurance that He will lead and guide us through life’s transitions. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – VaShawnMitchell. Website – www. vashawnmitchell.com WIB Magazine
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Lean Eating: The guide explores some commonly asked questions about: • What is Clean Eating? • Pantry and Fridge Staples • Organic: Clean 15 & Dirty Dozen • Eating Out While on a Clean Eating Diet This package includes the full 28-day meal plan with a cover page, 85+ recipes which includes an image, ingredients, directions, nutritional value, and the 28-day meal plan presented in a calendar format. 28-Day Vegan Plan includes: • Weekly calendar instructing what meals to eat • 120+ detailed recipes • 3 Meals and 1-2 snacks daily • Each recipe has a picture • Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks • All gluten-free • Made with minimum ingredients • Can be done in 30 minutes or less • Number of servings and portion size for each meal • Nutritional information of each meal (Calories, protein, fat, carbs, fiber) • Grocery list
Description Sugar Detox Plan Healthy eating plan: This package includes the full 28-day meal plan with a cover page, 85+ recipes which includes an image, ingredients, directions, nutritional value, and the 28-day meal plan presented in a calendar format. This is another version of the clean eating 28-day plan, with completely different recipes and includes: • • • •
What is Healthy Eating? Pantry and Fridge Staples Organic: Clean 15 & Dirty Dozen Healthy Options While Eating Out
28-Day Vegetarian Plan includes: • Weekly calendar instructing what meals to eat • 3 meals, with 1-2 snacks for a total of 115-140 detailed daily recipes • Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks • All gluten-free • Made with minimum ingredients that are simple • Can be done in 30 minutes or less • Number of servings and portion size for each meal • Daily calories range from 14001500 • Nutritional information of each meal (Calories, protein, fat, carbs, fiber) • Grocery list
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WIB Magazine
Americans on average consume more than 100 pounds of sugar each year. This excessive intake of sugar can have a devastating effect on metabolism and cause a multitude of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia and in some cases, infertility. Wondering how to reduce your sugar intake so it won’t deteriorate your health, rebalance your body and recapture glowing, youthful skin? The best way to achieve this is through a cleansing, sugar detox program. This is not a tea, pill, or product that you magically take and everything goes away. Here at Xena, we help you fast track your health and give your body a break from the vicious circle of sugar addiction, we outlined a step-by-step, effective sevenday sugar detox plan to slowly wean you off the harmful excess sugars.\ This e-guide explores some questions such as: • Why Is Sugar So Harmful? • Why Is Sugar Detox So Important? • What to Eat and What Not to Eat?
Simple Meal Plan with 3 meals and 1 snack and 17 detailed recipes with pictures and instructions.
As you plan your 2021 in your jammies, or even dressing it up for some low key glamour, add a little sparkle with Vara!
Pop, Fizz, Clink! Vara Silverhead Brut Cava has a brilliant light-yellow color with fine wellreleased bubbles forming a continuous bead and a fantastic crown. From brunch throughout the day, dinner and evening, this is the perfect way to ring in the new year. Bubbles are the most civilized way to start and end your day.
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SHOTTY
“Our bubbly shots are inspired by traditional midnight champagne toasts and celebratory holiday parties. But instead of bringing a boring bottle of sparkling wine to the party, we know consumers wanted something way more fun than that,” said Shottys co-founder Austin Rovetti. “When you walk in with your chilled, festive cooler-bag of 24 ready-made bubbly shots, you’ll definitely be the party hero!” Kick off 2021 right with Shottys Pre-Made Bubbly Gelatin Shots— sold in select states at national retailers like Costco, Kroger and HEB stores. Who knew gelatin shots could get so fancy!
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GET THAT GLOW
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Photographer: Gudrun Gabriel Stylist: Vivian Dinkins-Stith Make-up Artist: Yolanda Marshall Hair: Lisa Newton, Hair Game