Backstage with Lorenzo Owens - What Kinda Man

HELLO HON-TEY'S!

Some of you didn't know that I like to rub elbows with individuals who are major go-getters and trendsetters in ALL arenas - and Lorenzo Owens is just one of those individuals that I am proud to say I have personally known for years. Originally from Milwaukee,WI now residing in Chicago. Lorenzo began his music career while in college after he began to see what effect his voice had on listeners.  He then took that talent on Oprah, (beat out 15,000 hopefuls) and snatched up his spot on the finalist competition, with Stevie Wonders All Is Fair In Love. Ren (what close family and friends call him) is currently on the grind and enjoying what he likes to do best.  SANG!!!!

YO NIKKI:  What artist dead or alive would you love to work with?

REN:  I can never name just one, but I would have to say Gladys Knight, Jill Scott, Chaka.  The list goes on and on.

YO NIKKI:  We all saw you on Oprah, did that appearance help your career in anyway?

REN:  ABSOLUTLEY!  In every way, it gave me a world wide platform of over 11 million viewers at the time. In such a competitive industry as this (where everyone is going after the same dollar, where everyone wants the spotlight and very few get it) being on the show gave me leverage over all of that.  Don't get me wrong it's still a grind, but I got a BIG hand up and beyond that I'm blessed to get up everyday and do what I love. Not to mention it was OPRAH!  What more can I say!

YO NIKKI:  Are you currently working on any projects?

REN:  Yes.  Currently working on my 3rd recording project among many other things in the works - but I'll keep em quiet until I get some confirmation on them. 

YO NIKKI:  What do you think of the current state of the R & B industry?

REN:  The industry is the industry.  It comes with it's good  and bad. As we well know the face of the music is changing.  We are all trying to see what it will look like in the near future.  My hope is that we get back to "music", "real music" minus all the gimmicks.  Real artists...we need an outlet and we need to be supported by labels that can get behind out individual visions.  I remember a time when music made you want to fall in love.  We don't hear that very much anymore and I believe it shows in how we relate to one another.  The love epic is very quiet these days, but I have high hopes that we will get back to it.  Until then I will try and stay focused and committed to my craft and let the rest flow.

WOW!  This interview was my favorite thus far, Lorenzo and I shared a bond, because I was featured in his first video,  I played the "other woman".  Therefore, while chatting with him we got a chance to catch up on what's been going on in each others (grown up) lives since then. This interview was like a chit chat session to say the least.  YAAAAASSSSSS!!!!  


To learn more about Lorenzo Owens log onto his website:


www.lorenzosite.com

Thanks for your support REN!

Coming to the stage: DRUNKEN MONKEE!!!

HELLO HON-TEY'S!

Currently trending in my world is DRUNKEN MONKEE!  An artist from Chicago, IL, who I met 6 plus years ago while attending Columbia College. His musical style stands out from various angles. WHY?  Because his on stage energy is off the chart!  His lyrics are clever and eyebrow raising!  And last but not least his personality is ELECTRIFYING !  While chatting with Monkee this morning after a crazy and slow start, I finally got down to the bones of what makes up the "DRUNKEN MONKEE", and after our interview...I  needed a freaking nap!

YO NIKKI:  Where did the name come from?

MONKEE:  Growing up being exposed to Jackie Chan and the late great Bruce Lee and overall Asian Martial Arts Culture, I then started to really emerge myself and gravitate towards it - thus becoming Drunken Monkee.

YO NIKKI:  Who is your Target Audience?

MONKEE:  Man, when it come to audience.  I really don't like to limit myself.  My music covers a diverse crowd:  Fat girls, sumo wrestlers, Pokeman, silver hawks, bourgeois women, ugly folks, ASSHOLES, fancy women.  I cover the whole gamete!  I don't want to limit myself.  Basically my audience is people who don't mind letting their balls and clit show!  (bursts into laugher)

YO NIKKI:  It seems as if performing comes natural, how long have you been performing?

MONKEE:   AAAAHHHH, Well, I've been performing since I was 1 yrs old let my family tell it.  When I was young I got a hold of my moms rum and performed Rick James, Give It to Me Baby, and from there - brought us here.  It also started in high school when I started African dance (begins to give a dope azz African beat), but professionally I've been performing for 15 years now.

YO NIKKI:  What is your "theme song" that plays over and over in your head?

MONKEE:   (starts to scream with the baby in the background) If I were to have a theme song it would have to be Jim Morrison (The Doors) Five to One...and the BIBLE, "John the Baptiste" - Burning Bushes!  Was that Blasphemy? (bursts into laugher)

YO NIKKI:  Well, you know I have to ask a question for the ladies, Are you single?  And what song describles your perfect female?

MONKEE: YEAH I'm single...and DAMN, I would have to say the perfect song is  Bootsie Collins, I Got the Munchies For Your Love.

There you have it HON-TEY's a little DRUNKEN MONKEE for your SOUL!  For more of your Drunken Monkee go to:  


www.Reverbnation.Com/drunkenmonkee

UPCOMING EVENT CHICAGO, IL

No Photo Shoot is complete w/out Krystal Danielle!!!

Hello Hon-Tey's!

Currently Trending in my world right now is Krystal Danielle, she is a MAKE UP ARTIST out of HOT MIAMI!  She is one of my inspirations because she stays on the grind and doesn't let the highs and lows of "the industry" put a damper on her GOALS!  While chatting with Miss Danielle I got a chance to see what makes this Lil Firecracker spark!


YO NIKKI:  Why were you drawn to this industry?


KRYSTAL:  I have always been fascinated by fashion, pop culture and the beauty industry.  I cannot tell you how I used to purchase every fashion magazine and study the editorials to the very last detail.  I got into artistry in such an unexpected way, but you know what they say, "you make a wrong turn but end up going right"!  I'm a very creative person and I breathe the arts.  Makeup artistry became the way I spoke to the world.


YO NIKKI:  What is the most challenging aspect of being a Make Up Artist?


KRYSTAL:  As a freelance artist, you have to understand that you work for yourself and you are building your brand--creating your empire.  To be successful and stay busy, you have to constantly network and put yourself out there.  You will hear a lot of  "No's", but you cannot let it hinder you.  It can be easy to get frustrated or disappointed.  This industry is not for the weak at heart.




YO NIKKI:  What and/or where was your favorite gig?


KRYSTAL:  HMMMM, I think each gig I have done has been rewarding and has been a learning experience in its own unique way.  Artistry is every-evolving, so I can see growth in each project.  I definitely have to say that I loved doing the Guess Marciano fashion show here in Miami!  The models were stunning!  I caught myself gawking a little!  The clothes were amazing and the atmosphere was electric!  




YO NIKKI:  Do you have a favorite artist/designer that you love to work with?  And Why?


KRYSTAL:  Larry Andrew for Asia Mynor!  I have to give it to him for being one of my all-time favorite designers.  We are from the same hometown (Milwaukee) and I love his fashion and trunk shows. When we work together, its magic because we really click together on the overall vision--which is nice!  He trusts me and I trust him, which makes things run smoothly!













There you have it!  Another rising star feel free to check out Krystal Danielle on the following sites:


www.modelmayhem.com/610628


www.krystalhardy.blogspot.com


www.twitter.com/UrMakeupArtist

Asia Mynor is MAJOR!!!

Hello Hon-Tey's


With most of the holiday parties behind us, I thought we as LADIES should kick it up a notch and start setting the stage for a new year and new YOU!  How?  Well, let's start with something major like ASIA MYNOR!


ASIA MYNOR is a clothing line by Larry Andrew, out of Milwaukee WI.  I jumped at the chance to interview Mr. Andrew between his hectic schedule as a professional Make-Up Artist and Designer and gather more insight behind the man with the GOLDEN NEEDLE...Thanks for squeezing me in Larry!


YO NIKKI:  Who an/or What inspires Asia Mynor?


LARRY:  I was inspired by women who embody a huge unapologetic in your face persona.  Women like Diana Ross and Josephine Baker.  My designs compliment a women who embodies that same thought process.  I flatter curves and a bustline well.  I love using color-blocking and unique seam placement to enhance a womans silhouette.


YO NIKKI:  Do you remember your first piece? And what was it?


LARRY:  (laughs)  I actually started out cutting and re-altering denim.  But my first piece that I constructed was a dress for my friend who was performing in a drag show.  I was still a design school student, and my skills were not AT ALL the greatest. I will never forger it, it was a black one shouldered dress with an asymmetrical hem line, and all  I could think the entire time he was performing was, "Dear Lord Sweet Baby Jesus, please do not let this poorly constructed dress fall off this man!"  (bursts in laugher) But that was my start, and I haven't looked back since.




YO NIKKI:  Have you ever had a collection that you looked back on and thought, "What the hell was I thinking?"


LARRY:  YES I HAVE!  My very first collection, Summer 2007.  I was all over the place: Silver metallic leggings, leopard print swimwear AND evening wear...the list goes on  and on!  It had no direction whatsoever and was all over the place.  Since then, I have learned to hone in on who my customer was, and to make sure that every collection tells a story and that every piece looks as if it belongs in the closet of the same woman.


YO NIKKI:  Do you have an Event schedule for 2011?


LARRY:  I only have one showing planned so far in 2011.  I am one of the finale designers The Fashion Revolution.  It is THE premiere show in Milwaukee and a huge honor to be part of.  I decided against doing a solo show this year and dedicated my focus to introducing Asia Mynor to larger markets.  I will be visiting Miami in February and I am really excited about that.


Asia Mynor can be purchased at:
Boutique Revolution 
5209 West North Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53208
414.871.0624

Did Someone Say VINTAGE???

Hello Hon-Tey's!


You know I'm all about the BOB (Black Owned Businesses), well, I must tell you about Boutique Revolution and Gallery located in Milwaukee, WI.  This Funky and Eclectic boutique caters to vintage clothing, Indie Designers, consignment, fashion workshops and art by local artists.  I LUV THIS PLACE!!!  The owner Sheena Marie is a sweetheart who always has a pot of tea brewing to accesorize your shopping experience.

Sheena Marie - Owner 

Boutique Revolution and Gallery
5209 West North Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53208
414.871.0624
http://www.thefashionrevolution.com

REALLY TED! ALREADY!

 Welp!  The man with the golden voice who became an Internet sensation and TV darling last week, was picked up by police last night after a disturbance in a Hollywood hotel.

The formerly homeless Williams, who has battled drug and alcohol problems, got into a heated argrument with his daughter at the Renaissance hotel, say hotel sources.

An LAPD spokeman says the police "responded to a disturbance call at the Renaissance Hotel last night at about 9pm.." and two people "were transferred to the Hollywood station."

The spokeperson says,"the investigation is ongoing and no one was booked and no files charged."

Well, all I gotta say is they were probably arguing about him trying to be a father all of a SUDDEN!  The daughter wasn't trying to hear that "father shyt" and snapped.  All she wanted was some money!  But I'm just speculating Hon-Tey's!

Miss Chriss thee MAKE UP ARTIST!!

Hello Hon-Tey's!

Currently trending in my world right now is Miss Chriss. She's a professional Make-Up Artist located Indianapolis who happens to be a BEAST with the brush!  Her creativity, precision and dedication to her craft is UNBELIEVABLE!  I had the opportunity to interview Miss Chris and like her work, she TOO is  a COLORFUL SOUL!


Yo Nikki: Where did you learn your skill is it self taught or did you go to school?


Miss Chriss: Well, I have a lifetime of experience, hehe. I'm self taught with a background in Art . I attended a Visual and Performing Arts School from 6th to 12th grade.  My primary are of studies was geared more towards portraits and landscapes so that's something I really enjoyed in school.  I did did makeup for my school plays/performances, sooo many memories!


Yo Nikki:  How long have you been in the industry ?


Miss Chriss:  I have been practicing professional MUA (freelance) for about 2 yrs now, where I've been actually picking up steady clientel through word-of-mouth and bases off of my social networks.




Yo Nikki:  What inspires your work?


Miss Chriss: My daughter inspires me...just her inoocence inspires me.  Her love of color and beautiful things inspires me to use color and create beautiful things.  I'm such a mush for that little chick.




Yo Nikki:  What is your Make Up Bag must have?


Miss Chriss:  A great MOISTURIZER with plenty of SPF!  Tinted moisturizer is an added bonus.  A great SETTING OR BLOTTING POWDER to keep our skin looking fresh, and not too oily!  MASCARA, protein infused!  Oh gosh, sooo important.  A great GLOSS for the lips, preferably a pinky nude shade loaded w/ Vit. E.  And a great two toned BRONZER that can look good in the winter or summer months.


Well, there you have it!  Tricks of the trade for this Artistic Beauty!


 I have attached a couple of pictures so she can be a trend in your world, too!

Fake Lawyer BUSTED!!!!

Hello Hon-Teys!

Chicago!  Gotta luv it!  Legal System...hard to trust it!

This just in! Tahir Malik was arrested for being a fake lawyer in Cook County, Chicago.  Really!  Yes, it looks like this Skokie, Il man was just as criminal as those he defended!  Malik somehow managed to be a fake lawyer for years while overseeing 60 cases!  Malik was able to stroll right into the courtroom and lay out a nice pile of manicured BS for the JUDGE and JURY. 

Information is now emerging this fake lawyer actually charged his clients up to $4500 to defend them in low level criminal cases.  Apparently, Malik had honed his skills by watching various television shows and observing his OWN lawyers in his many court cases.

Dec. 17 after his strange and brazen personality was questioned by Cook County Courthouse personnel, apparently, he had never went to law school.  

Moral of story:  If he can fool the masses, what's to say there aren't more fakes out there?  Do your research Hon-Teys!

Lady Gaga Wild Styles

Hello Hon-Tey's!


First let me say Happy Birthday to everyone whose birthday is today!


Now lets get it in!  Lady Gaga! Lady Gaga! Lady Gaga!  Where do I begin?  Well, the CREATIVITY first and foremost.  She is a women with no boundaries, and I LUV IT!  When she first emerged onto the scene I didn't pay her much attention.  She seemed as if she was just a Gimmick, nothing to really take serious.  However, after listening to her music, watching her videos, reading interviews and not to mention SEEING her on the runways...I have began to side-eye her in a more positive light.  Her creativity and no hands barred persona is RI-DYCK-CULOUS!  Lets take a peak at her fashion picks from 2010, shall we?

LOOK:  Rocker Chic meets Alexander McQueen!

I know there is a MESSAGE here...somewhere.

She is becoming one with the MUSIC... concentration is key.

Don't QUESTION the ARTIST! This took a lot of thought.

Look:  ?

Is this Cher inspired???

She is just channeling her inner .....well, I know it's CREATIVE.

Katt Williams Ordered to Pay $577k in Dog Attack Case

Hello Hon-Tey's!

I really don't follow little pimps, but this story is comical in itself. Why does Katt Williams owe an Atlanta producer some money, right? Well, when the guy asked for the money to be returned Katt brought his dogs to the guys house and verbally signaled for his "attack dog" to attack the guys dog. Who DOES THAT? I mean really! Are you you that broke or just so into yourself that you think you don't have to repay?

Well, to make a long story short...the victimized dog suffered "substantial and nearly life-threating" wounds and a judge ordered Katt to pay...wait for it......$577k! See that's what his lil azz get for trying to punk somebody. Who's laughing now "Lil Man"?

LINK: Katt Williams Ordered to Pay $577k in Dog Attack Case

Poor Righteous Teachers (Hip Hop's Change To Negativity Was Intentional)

Hello Hon-Tey's!


After listening to this young man's speech.  I had my doubts, but then after listening and thinking, he began to make TONS of sense.  Music is a very strong influencer, more than one may think.  How many of us listening to music when we are getting ready to go out?  How many of us listening to music while cleaning the house?  How many of us listening to music while driving, cooking, house gatherings....etc?  The point is that music evokes a certain emotion within ALL of us.


WHAT EMOTION IS YOUR MUSIC CURRENTLY STIRRING UP IN YOU?

Grabbing 2011 by the HORNS!

Hello Hon-Teys!


Have you all tried the new Oatmeal at McDonalds yet?  If you haven't I highly suggest you do so NOW!


Welp, I just got an inspiring inbox on FB from a highly creative and gifted Make-Up artist today.  I'll share, see below:


Just checked out your "About Face" album and I can say two things; 1) you DEFINITELY have a great foundation of skills under your belt, I can tell you have the "eye" because it shows in your precision.  2) you can see growth just between those 4 picture of your skill level, so you have such great potential mama. The only critique I have, and this something that you would learn/see from me personally should we ever connect, I'm a fiend for brows.  Work on your precision because they truly frame the face, and our case as makeup artist, they "showcase" the eye art that we create.  Invest in some brow stencils, find the perfect shape for your GORGEOUS eyes, fill in your brows using that shape, and then "clean up" all surrounding areas that's not shaded.  Starting off w/ that strong brow, is so key to any fierce look.  TRUST ME!


I was feeling all fuzzy inside when I read her critique.  I knew I could apply makeup well, but I wasn't fully confident in myself.  I think I am going to really take my God gifted skill serious this year and see where  it takes me.  STAY TUNED HON-TEYS!

Yo Nikki Black Owned Fashion Picks : Bon Bon Vie!

Hello Hon-Teys!


A friend of mine recommended a clothing website, and guess what IT ROCKS!  After viewing the site I wanted to order everything" on it!  However, I ended up deciding on the Yellow, Brown Skin Lady tee.  Which was a hard choice.


 "Bon Bon Vie" is derived from the popular T.S. Monk song and the same name is French for "Gimme The Good Life".  The line featured really fashionable and statement oriented Graphic Tees, Totes and and Onesies.  Currently there is a spectacular sale going on.  New tees are officially available for pre-order!  


Check out the site.  www.wearbonbonvie.com.  Use PREORDER for 15% off the 9 new tees! 


Here just a taste of what the site has to offer, there are so many more to choose from.  I LUV IT!!!!!!

Raw Video: Homeless Man's Voice Gets Natl Buzz

Hello Hon-Teys!


This is Ted Williams, he is a homeless guy with what some would call a "Golden Voice".  He is an Ex drug and alcohol abuser with a gift that never seemed to leave him after all his years of addiction.  What started out as a Viral Video has now gotten the attention of the Cleveland Cavilers, NBA, MTV among other heavy hitters within the television and radio industry.


The sign Williams would hold along Ohio I-71 read as follows: " I have a God given gift of voice. I'm an ex-radio announcer who has fallen on hard times.  Please!  Any help will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you and God bless.  Happy holidays."


I sure hope he finds a job.  He is a living testament as to how a person can recover from anything and bounce back!


What are your thoughts?

Toni Braxton -- I May Show Some 'T&A' for Playboy

LINK:  Toni Braxton -- I May Show Some 'T&A' for Playboy

Hello Hon-Tey's!


I guess now that she has money problems...woman has to do what a woman has to do. See, there is no reason ANY woman should be broke. But that's just my opinion Make that MONEY GURL!

.