Xposure January/February 2011
Raheem Devaughn Talks Controversy, Sex, Love, Grammys & New Album
Celebrating 50 Years of The Temptations With an Exclusive From Otis Williams
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Xposure
Credits &Contributors
Gift, 26, of Louisville, Ky YES Ky attended Western Kentucky University majoring in Exercise Science and Broadcast Communications &Journalism. He is by his own account, and admissions of others, one the most diverse people you will ever meet. His ultimate goal is to continue to build his brand and become a global mogul, He enjoys long walks on the beach, playing scrabble with Chuck Norris, volunteering at sheltors and helping to feed the poor. In High School he was voted most likely to contribute stories to Xposure Magazine and selfishly right his own bio. U SEE ME!!
Photos - Ronald Dixon, Amber Noble
Xposure Magazine is a bi - monthly magazine published on a bi monthly basis. ISSN - 2158-0421. Copyright 2009-2011. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Views expressed by writers are not necessarily the views of Xposure Magazine. We welcome and accept unsolicited materials. Materials submitted to Xposure Magazine is the person’s guarantee that submitted items are not in violation of or infringing upon the rights of others and that said materials may be reviewed and subject to critique without any third party consent.
Goldyn’s Touch
I hope your new year is off to a great start, with the new year in mind Xposure has undergone lots of changes. As this year progresses, you will start to see more articles from my team of writers that will give the magazine more of an international feel. I have my fashion writer Leon who lives in Tokyo who will give his take on what is on the fashion plate there. I have my financial guru Dita who is here stateside to give you all of the tips to keep your finances in order. I have Emma who is in Ireland who is one of my go to girls on beauty. My own personal Carrie Bradshaw Attiyya, gives her take on dating in this day and age with all the highs and lows. My travel writer Alex is in Australia and has a wide variety of knowledge to share on where to stay, where to eat when traveling. I also have Rebecca who is living in Dubai who will give insight to all things visual art. Felecia is my beauty guru stateside, Judy is my diverse writer who can give perspective on everything. All of these great people will be bringing you into their world via xposure365.com and Xposure Magazine. This issue I sat down with Raheem Devaughn to discuss the great year he had last year as well as the controversy about his video. The video sparked a lot of dialogue and his candor about everything will surprise you. He is on track to have another great year with his new album in the works called A Place Called Loveland. I was also able to secure my first exclusive interview with Otis Williams, founding member of The Temptations. This month marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary group and we travelled down memory lane to understand what it was like to be a part of such history. The Temptations aren’t only legends but is also still continuing to record and setting records. In this issue, we also have a double dose of Allure featuring Terri Vaughn, and Kaleena with the interviews done by Gift who is known for his fun take on interviews. I also have two dynamic women for our Next on Deck section. I also sat down with Q Parker of 112 to talk about his new fitness calendar and the legacy of 112. It’s a great issue if I say so myself so please enjoy and feel free to send feedback to me at goldyn@xposure365.com. Before I close this letter, I would like to dedicate this issue to my daddy. Daddy I love you and I hope you are proud of everything I have and will continue to accomplish. My father is a huge Temptations fan and our father daughter song is Just My Imagination. The interview with Mr. Otis Williams I’ve done will hopefully bring a smile upon your face. Love you daddy.
Goldyn P. Smith goldyn@xposure365.com Publisher/EIC
Iconoclasts
Soul Legend Teena Marie
First off, Just share a little of your background, i.e. age? Where you’re from? Any brothers? Sisters? Kids?
Next On Deck
21, Detroit MI, 1 brother, 1 sister and 1 adopted sister. I’m the youngest, and I have no kids but would love to have some of my own one day How old were you when you first performed? How old were you, how did it go & when did u determine singing was the career for you? 4 years old, I was a dancer, a bumblebee lol I was really nervous and knocked another girl down and ran off the stage lol I enrolled in all performing arts schools including DSA (Detroit H.S. of Performing Arts) where the late Aaliyah and Tierra Marie both attended. In high school I knew I always wanted to entertain but it wasn’t until my sophomore year I realized I wanted to take things to another level and sing and I auditioned and became a member of an R&B girl group called “Charm”.
Selena Jordan
With being an artist & especially a female artist there are a lot of expectations to sell the image of sex, do u feel that pressure and if so how do u deal with it? Yes, I feel the pressure very much so, but I feel that I deal with it pretty well. I’ve never been the type to do anything I don’t want to do and I have always been level- headed. Although sex does sell, I feel that you can still do it and/ or express yourself in a tasteful manner.... but not everything has to be about sex.
What are some of your musical influences and is there anyone in music you can compare your style of music to? One of my favorite artists and song writers are Brandy and Tank. Brandy’s voice is so smooth and soulful, while Tanks voice carries so much passion and relaxation. In my opinion, they both are highly under-rated and they have the CRAZIEST runs!! lol I also love Avril Livigne, Katy Perry, Lincoln Park, One Republic, Ryan Leslie, Eminem and Lauren Hill who are my favorite MCs, along with a long list of other great performers. I would say that my artistry is a combination of a new modern day Prince, with a hint of Eve, finished with a nice cold glass of Janet Jackson lol
Ok this next question is HIGHLY important to me & I ask it to everybody I interview. Who killed Tupac? Barney and friends. I thought you knew?? What’s your favorite song, movie, & TV show of all-time? Lauryn Hill “The X Factor”, “Good Burger”, “Sanford & Son”, “Kenan & Kel”. What can I say; I’m a big kid lol
What your ultimate goal and dream out of life? As an upcoming artist what adversity have you faced and how has that affected To become an unforgotten super star and to be around for you as a person and artist? many generations to come. I want to leave a stamp in the music/ movie industry. I want my music to live on forever just like all the There are times when you often lose faith, but you never lose faith in yourself. greats as well as inspire all the youth. Believe in what you do at all times. Sometimes I strive so hard to make sure that I set myself apart from everybody else that’s doing what I do because it so many people that’s want the same dream.... I just want to leave an imprint in What future projects have you been apart of, what future projthe game. As I grow older and experience life I realize that I didn’t have to try at ects do you have in the works and where can people find out all... all I had to do was be myself. There’s no one like me, and there’s no one like more about your music and stay up to date with you? you. I just finished my national S.O.S. (save our students) college tour where we distributed student book vouchers and encouraged Ok, so we’ve established you sing, do you have any other hidden talents or hob- the youth to stay in school and expressed the importance of edubies? cation at various colleges. I’m also working on a couple of really I enjoy writing and I write most of my music. also play six different instruments... great movies right now, can’t let the cat out of the bag just yet I play the clarinet, bass clarinet, trumpet, piano, tenor sax, and the guitar. I am a but stay tuned!! Last but not least were pushing my new single HUGE BAND GEEK and I’m proud of it lol music has always been my foundation called “Feel Better” feat. Shady Records recording rap artist Royce and has helped me to develop a great ear. I also rap as well as my singing, and Da 5’9. It’s hot and sexy something for the men and my ladies so I did some acting and modeling on the side. Dancing has always been a part of make sure you call your local stations for it and cop it on iTunes! me and one of my strongest talents. I’ve danced in many dance groups and I’ve Keep in touch with me on my website www.selenajordan.com made an appearance on 106&park for the wild out Wednesday challenge and and check me out on YouTube!! out group was called “total entertainment”.
Beautiful, talented, ambitious, and just an all around lovely person, but enough about me. Allow me to introduce you to Jasmine Rhey, an up and coming starlet who those previous aforementioned adjectives also applied to. We received a moment of this gorgeous young ladies time to ask her a few questions and find out a little more about her: In your own words who is Jasmine Rhey? Hello! Thank you for letting me be a part of this magazine! Jasmine Rhey is a creative being in many ways. She is a lover and has a desire to be loved. She is a songwriter a singer and has a strong passion for both. Jasmine Rhey is a performer who desires to touch her audiences and inspire them to be the best and most positive people they can be. She wants to do her part in making the world a better place through her music. Jasmine Rhey is me! What musical elements can we expect to hear from you and how would you define your sound? I usually describe my genre as R&B, but that puts limits on it that I believe my sound surpasses. I believe my sound is R&B/Pop/Hip-Hop/Soul. My voice is soft, yet powerful and I think the best way to describe my sound is to hear it for oneself. I try not to confine my description of my music, because I think that people who love any genre can find at least one song of mine that touches them deeply. Who are some of your musical inspirations?
How would you describe your upbringing? Your a very classy and respectful young lady who do we have to think for that? My upbringing was so incredibly blessed. Thank God, my Mommy, my Grandmother and my Grandfather. They raised me, but if you ask my mom, I raised myself. They provided me with everything I could possibly want, need and more. I started in a public elementary school where my mom was a homeroom mom until 3rd grade, My first musical inspiration was Michael Jackson. I used to dress up like him when she decided that was not the place for me. I began private and dance to his music on my front porch with my friend. I remember school in 4th grade. It was a horrible time for me. I never fit it, jamming out in my mom’s car to my “Dangerous” tape. Next, I’d have to say ‘N was always made fun of. I never looked like any of the other kids Sync, because they were my favorite growing up. I was intrigued by there har- and never did any of the popular things to do. I was “that kid.” I monies. Maybe I was just another crazed boy-band fan, but I loved me some remained “that kid” all through high school as well. I was never ‘N Sync. Then, Eminem. His “I don’t care what you think, I’m going to be me” “popular” and had only a few close friends. I was so angry that I attitude was inspiring to me as well as his untouchable lyrical creations. Next, went to private school until the day I graduated and realized how Tupac, because he was an incredible human being. There are so many more, lucky I am to have the education that I now have. It was really a blessing. but I’ll skip to the present. Now my biggest inspiration is Ne-Yo. Something about his style, his voice and his writing makes me feel at home and like I can Now this next question I ask to everybody I interview its my way of do this whole music business deal! contributing to society. Who killed Tupac? You recorded and released your debut album “Perfect Imperfections” this past Tupac was killed. Who killed him, I’m not sure, but there are so many good people that are killed, most likely because they are year how was that process and what was your feeling when it was finally doing good things. I believe Tupac was a very positive person who released? wanted to share his light with the world. He did. So what’s next on your list of goals where do you ultimately plan & I didn’t realize I was in the process of recording my first album until the last wish to achieve from life and in your career? song was finished. Then I decided, hey, I have enough songs to make an I wish to find and embrace my creative musical style and be able album. And there it was. I finished mixing and mastering it right before I left the country to study, so I had only a short time to have the album covers and to do world tours and bring light and happiness and joy to the inserts designed and printed up. I left the country without having time to really less fortunate people of our planet. It has always been a goal of promote the album before I left, but I did have a music video for my single “Life mine to have a building somewhere in Africa for the less fortunate people to go. It will have a hospital, a music school, a basic school, Goes On” that I pushed through the internet while I was away. a cafeteria and who knows what else I will come up with by the time it is being constructed! Oh, and later in life, I’d like to have a Now I heard you spent some time in Egypt learning arabic, how was that family of my own. experience and do you speak any other languages? Language is my second love. My major in college was Spanish. I also studied French, which came easy to me after knowing Spanish. Then, after spending For people interested with Jasmine Rhey where can they find out more about you, pick your album up and keep up with you? two weeks in Egypt at the end of my final semester of college with a class called “Intercultural Communication,” I fell in love with the Arabic language and the culture. I decided to apply to a university in Cairo, Egypt and I was ac- Follow me on Twitter @JasmineRhey, Add me on Facebook cepted into their Intensive Arabic Program. I spent 8 months there learning the (Jasmine Rhey Peterson or Jasmine Rhey or Jasmine Rhey’s Music Fans), Check out my Myspace.com/JasmineOnTheHook. Buy my language and living in the culture. I think it is my favorite place in the world now. I miss it so much and I hope to continue my studies in Arabic as well as album on iTunes (search Jasmine Rhey “Perfect Imperfections”) or return to Egypt sometime soon to see some of the many friends I made while on Paypal.com/oohbpz there.
Allure
Terri Vaughn
II’m suppose to write an intro, an intro that I really wouldn’t know where to start. Sure I could tell a funny story about her, list all her amazing attributes and say how much I absolutely adore her but there are times where no introduction is needed. So Ladies and Gents Show ya love *Steve Harvey* for Ms. Terri Vaughn: You’ve been a vibrant part of the thespian arena with appearing on such shows as “Married With Children” “Family Matters” “Girlfriends” and in such films as “Daddy’s Little Girls” and “Three Can Play That Game” but you’re most widely noticed for your role as “Woman #1” on the “Great Expectations” episode of the HIT TV show “Living Single” explain how that role came about and how it opened doors for your career. I auditioned for it. And it finally gave me a legitimate TV credit to put on my resume, instead of the made up crap I had on it. It’s always vital for celebs to give back and be apart of the community, you have a non-profit organization the “Take Wings Foundation” What was the inspiration behind this, what are you plans for your foundation and how can be apart of it or find out more about it? www.takewings.org. I started working with young girls 14 years ago because I wanted to help prepare girls who were growing up in “at-risk” communities (the ghetto), like I did, to be successful in life, instead of falling prey to their communities. In addition to that, you also hold an acting workshop here in Atlanta. What would be the best possible advice you could give to an aspiring actor/actress? Study your craft. actors act.
What actor/actress would you love to work with and what actor/actress did you love working with the most? Would LOVE to work with Meryl Streep! Life is not always rainbows and butterflies, so what was your greatest tragedy in life that led to triumph? Just something that negatively impacted you but motivated you to pursue the most out of life. Growing up without my father What is something that people would be surprised or shocked to know about you? (i.e. weird habits, phobias, talents) I have grown into being kind of claustrophobic Now this next question is something that I pose to everybody I interview and being that you’re from the Bay Area maybe you’ll offer a little more incite than others. Who Killed Tupac? What I know for sure is absolutely, positively... I Did Not Do It! You’ve been able to accomplish a lot in life, what other things do you hope to accomplish and what mark do you desire to leave on this world? I want to surprise myself. Do things I never thought I could do. Gift
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Elevationn
Let’s start from the beginning, when did you first realize your love and passion for music? I was military brat, from North Philly with big dreams of being successful in the music industry! I was always in love with Michael Jackson and the way he bled emotion into his writing/ music So I realized I was all in when I was living Alaska at 10 yrs old. And the ambition to be great grew like a wild fire in my heart.
Kaleena (Peanut butter and jelly) How has the transition from being behind the scenes to being in the forefront been and what was the biggest change you had to get accustomed to? Contrary to what people think I was An artist before Dirty Money... My solo project fire started when I did the answer back to Usher’s confession that was an exciting and new time , different from being behind the studio mic ... Now it’s different of course because I’m In a super star group with Diddy himself. So being able to express both sides of my soul is dope!!!! The attention is different but God is Good I feel whole now.
You’re a very well respected songwriter; your discography speaks for itself, what steered you into the direction of songwriting and what was your first major song placement? Well the industry can be harsh and it was a new era of the “light skinned long hair epidemic” crazing the industry! I was told that I was too dark and I wasn’t marketable and I wasn’t petite enough etc My Dad said well you don’t just sing you write so you should back door the game! So I went at it ... My first placement was on Christina Milian...
Who Killed Tupac? I don’t get into that, but I love and respect his music . Explain to people what “GIG” means & how big of a role religion plays into your everyday life? GiG means God is Good God is Great God is the reason why I made it through I’ve been covered I feel protected! It really helps me understand how to love people and stay humble
Ok music aside, how would you best describe yourself? Free spirited, non judgmental. I have a huge heart and a strong faith in God .... I’m pretty cool if I Do say so myself I would hang out wit me!! LoL
What was the best advice you’ve ever received and are there any mottos, creeds or scriptures you live by? Met Sydney Poitier on a train to NYC and I went to get an autograph from him and he asked me what I did I told I was a singer songwriter and I was going to be the next big thing. He smiled and said next big things come and Go so I took my autograph heart broken back to my seat. And before he got off at his stop he walked back to my seat and said “ Strive to be #1” the best none can take that from you, you’ll be great I know it “!
What’s your biggest fear, pet peeve, favorite food, TV show, movie, and song of all time?
Diddy Believes like I do so we have kindred spirits and I say GiG!
My biggest fear is not being there for my family! I want that more than anything Pet peeve is honesty!! Tell the truth Craig I’m a big girl I can deal with it. My favorite food is Mac and cheese I don’t really watch TV so I don’t have a favorite! My favorite movie is color purple!! My favorite song of all time is Heal the world!!
How was the experience of working on the album “The Last Train To Paris” and what’s next on the horizon for Kalenna as an artist? I’ve learned So much working on Lttp ! Pushing myself when I feel like giving up, believing when none else does! And I’m definitely working on a solo project I feel a big 2011 but I’m not rushing it’s a marathon not a sprint!
Where do you find majority of your inspiration to write music, is it from personal experiences, family, friends etc? All the above! Been through a lot so I write about it. Plus I have a lot of influential people in my life
Now this next question is something I ask to everybody I just want to do my part and get to the bottom of things:
-Gift
I’m still a member of my group 112 and we’ve been touring abroad we just left Australia and will be in Germany for 3 weeks. I’m also recording my solo album which will be released next summer. I’m really big on fitness so I just shot my first fitness calendar so all of that has been taking up my time. You have to create more than one revenue stream. I also have a company that is targeted toward new artists. It’s an artists development firm called New Fam Entertainment, I’m always looking for new talent. I’m developing an artist of my own right now. I have my own studio, alliances with vocal coaches and choreographers and media coaches. It’s a one stop shop to get the artists prepared for what they are about to embark upon. Slim and Daron are no longer in the group, its mostly Mike and I the founding members who are keeping it going. Slim and Daron do not want to be in the group at this current time, and the brand should not have to suffer because of that. Mike and I decided we owe it to the brand and the fans to keep it going. We keep getting booked for shows which is a testament to the great music we perform. Some groups have lead singers, the thing about 112 is everyone can sing lead. Slim was the most recognizable voice but all of us can sing lead. It’s all about the music no matter who sings lead. All groups go through changes, we support Slim and Daron 100% and if one does well, we all do well. Eventually there will be a reunion album but right now it’s just Mike and I for the last year and we are going on our fourth European tour. Q Parker
Debut album memories – It was four guys who were hungry and experienced everything together. It was four guys who had never been outside of Atlanta and moving to New York and working with Sean Puffy Combs. Puffy was very protective over us but he pushed us to be better and push the envelope. We went through missing our families and not being able to graduate with our class. Then Only You was on the radio and meeting people who we idolized and shooting videos. I was reading Faith’s book and everything she was stating was something I could relate to. There are only great memories in thinking back to that point. I’m all about the process, it is what gains respect not the end result. Calendar – People ask me how it feels to have the calendar and I tell them it’s about the five times a week I’m in the gym and changing my eating habits. I’ve helped my family eat better and do better. It’s about the journey for me. You can get the calendar at www.qparkerfitnesscalendar.com. I decided to do the calendar because as African Americans we come out of the womb with high blood pressure and etc. Being in a celebrity position, we are looked at as role models and I have the platform to help people. Every one that knows me knows I’m very health conscious and I wanted to educate as well. It is eye candy for the ladies but it is also educational as well. I have tips in the calendar on how to execute certain movements, and healthy eating regimens. When you look at us as a country we are the worst in health and with childhood obesity. If they can recite the rap lyrics word for word, they can learn healthy tips. You don’t need a high tech fitness facility you can walk in the park. I will release a new calendar every year. I’ve been blessed by the response to the calendar, I’ve been very happy with the calendar’s success. Solo album – It’s called The Manual I’m giving a how to guide on how to love a woman and how to treat women. It’s about love and the good times, bad times and everything in between.
I want to let women know chivalry isn’t dead and men still do believe in intimacy. You can be sensual and not be all about sex. I believe in timeless, classy music like our song Cupid which is 13 years old. I want to be the kind of male artist that gives the ladies what they want from a musical standpoint. What R&B means to him – R&B music is my everything, growing up the only music I could listen to was gospel. Once I was accepted into the group, I started loving R&B music. I could turn any hard song into a smooth R&B song. I’m going to R&B everything out every time. Most valuable lesson learned in the industry – I’ve been a sponge soaking up everything going on around me. We signed our deal with Puffy, his distribution was through Arista with Clive Davis which are both icons. Our first tour was with the Isley Brothers who are icons, the second tour was with Keith Sweat. Our third tour was with Whitney Houston, the fourth tour was with New Edition. The fifth tour was with Janet Jackson, all of these people are icons. I would like to think we learned from all of them. We moved to Def Jam with Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles and they brought LA Reid in and we worked with all of the super producers. We’ve worked with Sting, shared a big brother relationship with Nortorious B.I.G. We learned from them how to interact with fans, and the right way to conduct ourselves in the industry. It’s important to have a great mentor and learn as much as you can. For more info – Twitter.com/QParker112, any bookings amber@ifortalent.com, check out my Facebook Fan Page. To get the calendar go to www.qparkerfitnesscalendar.com and look out for my solo album coming this summer. Last words – Thank you for all of the years of support for 112, if I could hug every last one of you, I would. Hopefully, this will suffice. Support the brand of 112 go buy Slim’s album, support Daron, Mike and myself.
Hello Beautiful
Western culture seems so obsessed with beauty that a pertinent question might not be what it is, but why is it so important to us? Beauty is something that men and women all over the world worry about and try to achieve daily. And with today’s society becoming more and more overpopulated and vain, the trend to look and stay beautiful is becoming worrying. Dating back to ancient Egypt times, the Egyptians were extremely vain and had certain beliefs that contributed abundance to their daily beauty regimes. Cosmetics, perfumes and other rituals were an important part of their daily lives, and the importance to stay beautiful was a number one priority back in these days. In no other country or culture, during these times, was the concern with beautification and body care so extensive, especially with the male race. The Egyptians started using cosmetics before they even developed written or language skills, and their goal was to apply decorative cosmetics to transform “ugly” men and women to being beautiful, basically by covering their faces up and transforming them to look like something they don’t. Men and women alike wore makeup and paid extremely close attention to detail. They never went out unless they were properly put together from head to toe and only ever allowed their at home family members to see them without their face on. They were more inclined to wear indigo blues, shimmer gold’s and greens with the occasional splash of red for their eye makeup, black kohl was heavily used as one of their most important items and who could forget the famous cat –eyed look they dominated, which is still used in today’s society. Red was also a popular color for the lips, cheeks and nails, and while not having the technology we boast today, all of there products where made from natural products.
The red nail polish was created using the fat of a sheep and its blood….. Interesting eh? Many of the face moisturizers and masks were made from animal fats, soils from the earth and even plant matter. Egyptian women who had darker complexion lightened their skin thorough the use of chalk, powders and white lead. The eye shadow was made of a sulfide of lead called galena, both malachite and galena were ground on a palette with either gum and/or water to make a paste. Round-ended sticks made of wood, bronze, haematite, obsidian or glass were used to apply the eye make-up. To make a dark black color they usually added soot, and to blend other colors they added plant extracts, blood or anything they really could find with color. They believed also by covering their face in makeup also helped protect their skin from the harsh, dry hot weather conditions. . Both men and women were very concerned about remaining youthful and of course keeping their beauty so the continual search for the best skincare creams and oils was a must. A sign of aging to them was an indication of laziness and ugliness. Another thing that was extremely frowned upon was facial and body hair on both sexes. That meant all legs, chests, arms, facial hair and the genital area was to be shaved, and for the men that did sport facial hair it was often fake and only allowed for special ceremonies and celebrations. They even perfected the use of beauty tools, such as tweezers, razors and the use of plants for make-up brushers, which helped to further enhance their beauty techniques. So when we look back at these times, it all seems to make a little more sense and we can sort of agree that we have it easy, yes our society is fussy and vain, but compared to the Egyptians we are much less distracted by the need to be beautiful. Also as we think of it our only evidence on how the ancient Egyptians viewed beauty comes from many different sources, including pictorial, sculptures in the round and various textual. So unless you lived in these times, it really is hard to understand the depths and efforts they went to for beauty. Much of it affirms a specific model of beauty, particularly in individuals and perhaps even more specifically in females. Being beautiful for many people boosts important reasons not only for there physical feeling but mostly for their mentally emotions. Such as, makes you feel great, raises self confidence, and provides attention towards your-self, gives you pride and lastly above all, makes you feel happy. Which at the end of the day, that’s all that life is about. If we take to many pages out of the Egyptian world, we are all doomed to live in a superficial and vain world. But we can thank the Egyptians for all their efforts, for if it wasn’t for their inventions and determination to stay youthful, we wouldn’t have make-up today, well at least not in the depth we have today.
Em x
Headliner
Raheem Devaughn clesed 2010 with a Grammy nomination, a much talked about video, new mixtape and new label. He was everything I expected him to be and more. Raheem addressed the controversy and everything else we spoke about with a unique candor. With the Grammys coming up and a new album in the works, he took time to speak to me about the year that was 2010 and future plans. Reaction to his Grammy nomination – I was elated and it was humbling at the same time. This is my third nod of my career; I feel it a little more special because it is for a complete body of work. I’m real proud of the category it is in as well.
Raheem Devaughn
The Love And War Masterpeace – The album hasn’t been out a full year yet, I like to refer to it as a complete body of work. Up to this point, I feel like I pushed the envelope I’ve always had socially conscious lyrics intertwined with the love songs. I think this album showed my diversity; my growth as an artist, vocalist, writer, producer and the whole nine. This album solidified the fact that I will be around for some time God willing.
I have something to say like most artists, I feel like I took some risks that some artists would not take. For instance with Bulletproof, a lot of people may want to talk about what is going on with the world but may not think radio will not play it. I beg to differ, I feel like when people are in the club they want Soulja Boy swag and when they wake up in the morning they watch the news to see what is going on the world. I try to keep the balance and be the balance in music and really try not to judge anybody else. Everybody serves a purpose in this game regardless of what genre of music you’re doing. I would definitely like to see other artists who are in the lane I’m in take a little more risks. That may not be their initiative; I can’t knock the next person I have to use my talents and gifts to the best of my abilities. How Dr. Cornel West made the album – We had cultivated a relationship when he was in DC for the BET Honors the year he was being honored. It was cool being able to meet him and establish a relationship with him. We’ve been tight ever since, he is a great mentor I can chop it up with. I used him in particular because I felt like when he speaks, people listen and he is great at commanding people’s attention. Nobody Wins A War – I originally did the record myself and I always wanted a record like We Are The World type of vibe. I wanted to rock out with my counterparts and I wanted it to have a great message to it that was relevant to the times we are living in. I was riding one day and I felt like it was the record, I wish I could have had a lot more people on it. Due to time constraints it was not possible but I am thankful to everyone who was able to contribute. His favorite songs on the album –Revelations 2010 (Can I Live) ft. Damien Marley, B.O.B and Microphone are some of my wittiest songs to date. It’s not putting it right in your face, if my youngin was riding with me he is not going to know what it means. Black & Blue is a very personal record – a lady friend of mine inspired that. When you get into the double CD version Wing And A Prayer with Bun B it’s a ghetto gospel record. His relationship with Bun B – The relationship was formed with Pimp C, when Pimp was released he reached out to me. I’ll never know how he got my number; I usually don’t answer numbers I don’t recognize. I answered the phone and he was like its Pimp C mayne, he told me Guess Who Loves You More helped him and his old lady’s relationship while he was away. After he passed, Bun reached out and told me I was family and asked me to be on the album UGK For Life. He sent me something and I knocked it right out and it went down from there. What he knows now being in the business for so long – I wish I would have known the power of the send button and power of the internet. Now I’m playing catch up, I’m on everybody’s heels, give me another six months and they won’t be able to mess with me. I’m using the social networking sites as a tool to my advantage.
368 Music Group – One of my personal goals is to end up with my own label and to also invest in other people’s dreams and ideas musically speaking. My first artist is Phil Ade who has been with me a little over a year and the results have been great. We’ve covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time, the momentum is great. I have three other MCs signed to the brand right now who collectively call themselves The Winner’s Circle and they just put out a mixtape called 368 For The Win Vol. 1. A lot of the music is available for download for free and things have been moving rapidly. Controversy – The mixtape dropped the same day the video dropped and the video has had well over 1 million views within a couple of days. Everyone is going to have an opinion about art. I love the fact there is dialogue about sex and safe sex. I have a five year partnership with the CDC and dropped the video before World Aids Day which has people talking. I dropped another video which didn’t get as much attention I had many agendas dropping the video. I’ve always pushed the envelope like with the I Don’t Care video. I stopped filming the video and made them find the most chocolate woman they could find. I could never push safe sex enough with the Magnums in the video and show the interaction between a man and a woman. I had a lot of intentions with the video, certain people will be critics and I will continue to push the envelope. I will continue to do that with my music and with my visuals. I’m a grown man and I did not make the video for TV. If you look at the videos I’ve done, they have gotten minimal support from black television and that’s with a video like Bulletproof and that’s what people need to be hearing. I’ve never seen it on the 106th & Park Countdown. At this point, I don’t make music for the radio or videos for television because people know radio is the last place you go to hear music. Television is the last place people go to watch a video, people go online for content. It was not my intent to say hey look at me because I have a cult following, it was not for publicity. It was me being artistic and having some fun. I called the director with the idea and once he heard the song we shot it. The video was tastefully done; I will argue that until the end. Someone told me one of the housewives was commenting during the segment, let’s talk about that. Some of these shows are straight coonery and I will go on record and say that. These shows have women so discombobulated and wanting to be like the Atlanta housewives they see on TV. I don’t necessarily agree with what they do and say on that show but at the end of the day it is entertainment. It’s a prime example of becoming a star overnight, no one knew those individuals on that show before it came out. At the end of the day, I respect her opinion but you can’t call the kettle black – it is what it is. What R&B means to him – It means timeless music, growth, lush harmonies and deep words. R&B means love, sex, joy, pain, laughter, baby making music and all of that. Future plans – Working on a new album A Place Called Loveland and a few other things I can’t speak on yet. There is a website coming, to announce anything now would be too much so I won’t say right now. I’ll continue to strive for greatness and excellence. For more info – Follow me on Twitter @368hustlers, and my Facebook fan page which is over 100,000 strong. Last words – Thank you for your support, I love you and continue to ride for me and I will continue to give you good music and push the envelope musically.
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January 2011 marks the 50 year anniversary of The Temptations. Xposure Magazine sat down with founding member Otis Williams for a rare excluxive. 50 years and still going strong stroll down memory lane with us as we take you through the last 50 and the future 50.
Xposure Exclusive Otis Williams, founding member of The Temptations is gearing up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the group’s historic legacy. We sat down to recall all of the highs and lows as well as the plans for the future. New album – Still Here - Its’ the sound we’re known for with the lush ballads, social commentary. It has a lot of different flavors.First Kiss has done well by Terry Weeks, A Change Going To Come and it’s loaded with a lot of great songs. One of a Kind is a great stepper’s song as well. We are celebrating the 50th anniversary and we are still here. 50th Anniversary for the Temptations starts in January, it was 1961when we started it was Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, Melvin Franklin and myself. The first hit- The way you do the things you do – You have 5 different personalities and one guy stopped coming to rehearsals and another guy didn’t measure up. That’s when Paul and Eddie joined Melvin, Eldrige and myself. In 1964, David joined the group, we had to let Eldrige Bryant go and that started the ball to roll. In 1968, Dennis Edwards entered the group, it’s been an interesting metamorphosis with all of the guys coming in and out. Through it all, we’ve been able to continue on despite all of the changes. I never would have imagined we could still perform at a high level 50 years later. The experiences of racism – Racism has always been around, it was something we knew we had to deal with. One thing about music, it can be soothing to a troubled soul. The first time we went to Columbia, South Carolina, there was a rope down the middle of the auditorium it was blacks on one side, whites on the other. We went back the following year, there were no ropes and blacks and whites were sitting side by side. It brought tears to our eyes to know what we were doing via music could bring people together. Music can be a very powerful force. Original five – The original five were Paul, Al, Eddie, Melvin and myself. When David came into the group that’s when the world thought of us as the original five. Truth be told the five included Eldrige Bryant, we gained a higher profile with David but there were five before David. Fondest memories of the original members – Al was a really funny guy and gregarious. David used to carry a pocket knife and one day we were walking to the studio and he told us he could make the knife stick in the tree. He would do a cartwheel and throw the knife and it would stick in the tree. I have all kinds of great memories of all the members before we started having hits. The defining moment – One of the defining moments was Ed Sullivan, anytime an act from Motown was on the city of Detroit would shut down. The first time we did the Ed Sullivan show, I felt like we had really made it. We broke all existing records at the Apollo Theatre and Copacabana. When we started to sell out those venues, that’s when I really felt like we made it. We were doing things we never would have imagined. Sharing a label home with other legends – One of the fondest memories I have is when I hear Mickey’s Monkey by Smokey and the Miracles, he was the only Miracle. It was Martha, myself and a few others. All of the Miracles were not on the song so we put our voices on it. When it was released, it was a hit and I thought the world will never know it was only one Miracle on the song. Other memories would be when we were in the studio with The Funk Brothers, with Motown all of the acts would be recording at the same time. If we missed a note, one of The Funk Brothers would say get it together, we don’t want to be here all day. When one of them would miss a note or flub a line we would say aren’t you all accomplished musicians? Come on now, we don’t want to be here all day. It was those kind of jives back and forth that I think about. Legendary label and people – When we first signed, it was another fledgling company trying to make its mark. After being there a few months or so we started feeling like it was a special place to be. We would stay and clean up for the people who were coming in the following day. It was always a family type of atmosphere. When I bought my first home, Berry Gordy Sr. was very good at construction and he would make sure I had the proper plumbing and the house was very well made. I definitely had more than just a business relationship with them.
Competitions in the studio – It was both competition and helping others as well. We definitely had friendly rivalry which was necessary to keep Motown flourishing. We were all pulling for each other to make it. When we got on stage, we would try to burn down The Four Tops or The Supremes and they would be trying to do the same. It was all fun loving, it wasn’t a nasty or negative type of rivalry. The famous dance steps – I have to give credit to the late great Paul Williams because when we first started singing we would just stand and sing. One day Paul said we are not going to just stand and sing, we have to be exciting and we are going to sell sex. I told him I couldn’t dance, he told me I would be able to. We found a place to rehearse and Paul came up with all of the wonderful moves, which we would all implement our ideas. Paul was the initial person who got us to dance and the late great Charlie Atkins would fine tune us and the steps. Dancing is something we are renowned for but Paul Williams and Charlie Atkins were the ones who got us into it. The song that almost wasn’t recorded – It was Papa Was A Rolling Stone, we did not want to record that song. We had already done songs like that and wanted to go back to the lush ballads. Norman was very adamant and felt as though it would be a hit so Papa almost did not get recorded. We recorded it, being the artist we are and Norman added the strings, horns and mixed and mastered it. We went to Hawaii to do a gig and once we got back, we went to a disc jockey convention in Philadelphia. Every suite I went into, they were playing Papa Was A Rolling Stone, most of the time those other companies would be playing their own product. Next thing you know, we sold over a million copies and won two Grammys for it. The fans wanted more ballads but Norman having the strong personality he had was adamant about it being a hit. It was a verbal confrontation in the studio, I said let’s record it and get it out of the way. We left and Norman once again was right. It was a huge hit and Rolling Stone had it in their Top 500 Songs as well as My Girl and Just My Imagination. Temptations Christmas Classic songs – Our main focus when we go into the studio is to record, we had no idea the songs would be so iconic. We try to make the best product we can, we leave the other part to the audience. People love our version of Silent Night, people tell us it’s not Christmas until they hear it. His favorite things about being in this group and having the legacy – It’s hard to select one thing. We’ve had so many highs and lows, I can run off a litany of each. I’m amazed at the things we have been able to do and how this group has been so well loved. It blows my mind right now looking around my home at all of the pictures, proclamations and things from all the different Presidents. I never would have imagined we would achieve so much. A few days ago, a lady told me I was on her bucket list and she told me since she was meeting me she could cross it off of her list. A few years ago, a young lady sent me a letter and I read all of my mail asking me to call her mother who was ill. I called and spoke to her and she told me she was ready to leave, she told me she asked God to let her live long enough to speak to me. I had tears in my eyes, all I do is get up and sing and to have such impact on people’s lives it gets me more than all the awards. We were on a tour in 75 and the Vietnam War was just winding down, we were in Hong Kong and three soldiers stopped me and said you just don’t know what you guys meant to us while fighting in the jungle. These brothers were running it down about how they would live for the moments when they could return back to the base to hear the Temps. As he was telling me this, they started to cry and told me we gave them hope of getting back to the world. I guess I’m soft touched because my eyes were welling up while trying to man up. These guys put their life on the line for us and telling me how the music carried them through. I’ve always believed God has us here for a special purpose, when I was 19 I tried to join the service but for whatever reason it didn’t work out. I never would have imagined I would touch lives in such a way. I’m thankful to God because I would not have been able to touch as many lives as I have.
Criticism and misconceptions to clear up – There is always going to be an element of people who don’t agree. I spray on my B.S. repellent and keep on stepping. I know the story of the Temps, there was a small dramatic license to make the movie flow. People ask me if David was really like that, I love David even though we had different views on things. David was David, you accept the person for how they are. The 4 years David was in the group was fantastic, we had great moments. I don’t let criticism bother me because the only one I have to account to is the man upstairs. Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – It was a great night, there are a lot of artists that have yet to get in but for us to do it in such a short amount of time was a great honor. It is a wonderful honor and I’m happy we were inducted. First big purchase – I bought a house and gave my mother some money. Always take care of mama. Family life and having a successful career – I’m not selfish but at the same time the women knew what they were getting into when we married or started dating. I’ve been performing since I was 14 years old, there has to be an understanding. You try to do the best you can with family and it’s something you constantly have to work at. It’s a lot of give and take, that’s why I have the ying/yang on my arm because that’s what it is about. It’s one thing to day I love you but you have to work at a relationship and you have to constantly work at it. What has kept him going for 50 years – I still enjoy it and still love it. I tell people out of the 6 billion people on this Earth, we are a small microcosm of people that are not caught in the vaccum of 9-5. My total work is 85-90 minutes per show, one of the hardest things is the travel but in totality; I can’t complain. I’m very thankful and blessed. Key to longevity – There is no shortcuts, you have to work at it and it is constant work. You cannot rest on your laurels, we are always fine tuning our shows. Future plans for celebrations – The Temptations story will be going to Broadway in the next few years. We have a big producer out of New York Mr. Ira Tillman, who is ready to start hiring. As soon as Mr. Gordy’s life story is on Broadway, The Temptations’ story will be following. Being the last founding member left of the original five – I try not to dwell on it, I am asked that question a lot. It is what it is, the circle of life because we are well known it is magnified even greater. I still wish they were here and we were all still together, I have to continue on. I often think about them and wish they were here. His favorite Temptations songs – My Girl, Just My Imagination, Papa Was A Rolling Stone, Treat Her Like A Lady. I’ll be running down our whole catalog because I’m a Temptations fan as well. I’m very thankful and blessed to have been a part of this group. What’s next - We will continue to record and continue to work on the Broadway production, Mr. Gordy has started on his and we will be next.
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L’s Style Shot- December 2010 For all those new to winter in Tokyo, the entire season is a glorified fashion show on the streets virtually everywhere you look. The trendiest, priciest, and sometimes strangest fashion trends are born and raised from late September to early February, and this December, I bring you a bit of the strange, but intriguing, with the shockingly popular women’s trend item for winter, “kaijuu boots” “monster boots” to be exact. Step outside onto the streets these days and almost 1 out of 3 girls from the age of 15-28~ can be seen wearing boots such as these. They are called “monster boots” in Japanese because they obviously emphasize the fur, and have the girth, of what may exist on a monster’s foot, should such creatures truly exist. However popular these boots may be, though, they are also the objects of much skepticism, receiving comments including that they make the wearer’s legs look wide, or that if you are of short stature the boots will only serve to make your body look disproportioned. This writer’s personal opinion is that this trendy footwear best suits women over 170 cm in height with a slim build and a good sense of humor enabling them to let the stares they will receive (both good and bad) from foreign and Japanese onlookers alike bounce right off them as they strut their stuff on the stylish streets of Tokyo.
RelationTips
There aren’t too many eligible bachelor’s out there - both male and female. But sometimes theres a good one right in front of your eyes. Maybe, it’s coming from where I’m from, but I hear it everyday from the ladies - ‘this man ain’t this,’ ‘this man ain’t that.’ And men, don’t get it twisted- I hear it out of your mouths too ‘this bird,’ ‘that bird,’ ‘they all birds.’ Really? It’s not even possible for every person of the opposite gender to be that awful, or maybe your list is too incredibly dense. You want a man who will pay your bills, who will buy you a Aston Martin on your birthday and take you to Rome during the holidays. And the men want a female whose got an astronomical behind and wants to do nothing but cook, clean and sexually please him all day. Now, doesn’t that sound absurd? What you need to do is humble yourself and figure out your life, and at what point you’re ready to let someone in. I talked to several happy couples and they all had the same response- a good partner is made from a genuinely good person. An honest, even-tempered, respectful, personable, considerate, charismatic person, who is willing to go the extra mile will in turn be the same type of mate. I know it’s easier said than done, we want it all, and we don’t want to go get it ourselves - we want someone to do it for us. But before you move ahead in a relationship, it is essential to put those childish dreams behind you. Not preaching, simply teaching. The female consensus: a good man is one who makes you feel appreciated, beautiful, comfortable in all aspects of the word - both emotionally and physically. Females want a man with whom they don’t have have to beautiful with. A man who will appreciate them when their legs are as hairy as a gorilla’s chest; a man who doesn’t care when the makeup smears. The male consensus: a good woman is one with personality, an appealing face, a firm butt, and motivation. I don’t know why the buttocks placed higher on the scale than motivation... but it did. And that’s all the men really had to say about that one. Men are clearly the easily pleased gender, and women not so much. There in itself is the Yin and Yang of life (Gay couples, I hope you can take something from this too). It’s important to find someone who DOES NOT complete you, but complements you. You are a complete person, and your mate should make you better as you collaborate to achieve your goals. The best thing about settling with a life partner is that you two are tackling the future head on. And the future in itself is unknown. Having someone with different hobbies and interests, but the same ideologies to brave the unknown with is a constant learning experience and an adventure in itself. You’ll never get bored. So hang up that single life, and all the heartbreak it brings. I’m able to give you this advice because I’m taking it myself. I haven’t found someone who complements me, I haven’t found someone who I enjoy spending time with. I have dated lots of wannabes, ex-cons and losers. I’m on the same journey with you - and if you’ve already found someone, I congratulate you and I’ll be joining you shortly. Until then, love is in the air. Truly. Madly. Deeply, Attiyya A.
The United States government is busy trying to claw its way out of debt and the recession. As of December 17, 2010, the new tax-cut plan, Tax Hike Prevention Act of 2010, was signed off on in hopes that it may correct this problem. If you’re like me, money-talk can be confusing unless I can clearly tell how it affects me personally. The following is a brief rundown of highlights of this plan that may prove interesting. AMT – The AMT (Alternative Minimum Tax, $137 billion) is a tax bill that originally came into effect in 1969 to prevent the rich from avoiding paying taxes. You know the loopholes we hear about? Right. The new bill has raised the level of income that is exempt from this tax to $47,450 for individuals and $72,450 for those filing jointly. These figures apply to 2010. But for the year 2011, the level of income will be raised to $48,450 for individuals and $74,450 for those filing jointly. Social Security – ($112 billion) In 2011, those employed will have 4.2% of their wages withheld – wages up to $106,800 as reported by CNNMoney. com. Currently, this tax is 6.2%. Child Tax Credit – ($90 billion) This tax-cut bill will remain in place under this plan. The $1000 child tax credit will be paid to a filer as long as he/she doesn’t owe any federal taxes. Unemployment Assistance – ($57 billion) There will be an additional 13 months added to request for benefits due to unemployment. Interestingly, where joblessness is unusually high, benefits can extend up to 99 weeks. College Credit – ($18 billion) The American Opportunity tax credit has made it a little easier to pay for college tuitions during 2011 and 2012. This tax break translates into a credit up to $2,500 – a possibility of 100% of the initial $2,000 spent as well as the possibility of 25% of the following $2,500 spent, according to CNNMoney.com. Those who are eligible cannot make over $90,000 (single) or $180,000 (filing jointly). These tax breaks are not the only ones included in this new plan, but are just some that may affect the Average Joe the most. The Government hopes that with these cuts, taxpayers will have more money, and consequently, will spend more money, generating a healthier economy. Time will tell. Dita
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