Interview With Rapper K Quan!

Last weekend I had the opportunity to interview K Quan, who happens to be a up and coming rap artist from Detroit, Michigan. Not only is K Quan a very good friend of mine, he's also a member of the Detroit based rap group Young Rich Boyz also known as YRB or 972. The group has been on a non-stop grind with writing and recording music, shooting videos, working on a clothing line and list of other exciting events. However, as the group prepares to finalize their second mixtape project New Shipment 2, K Quan will be venturing off as a solo artist. 

Charisma: When did you realize you had a passion for music?

K Quan: I realized I had a passion for music around the age of eight years old. As kids, my cousin Vernell and I would sit around and write raps then recite them to each other.

Charisma: What artist would you really like to work with and why?

K Quan: Chrisette Michelle! I feel our styles would mix well.

Charisma: If you had to pick one influential music artist who would you choose?

K Quan: Nas, I see a lot of him in myself.

Charisma: If given the opportunity to choose which record label you could sign with, which would you chose and why?

K Quan: I would  choose Def Jam for many reasons but mainly because of the history and I really admire the work ethic of Russell Simmons.

Charisma: Once you make it big, if you could help out the world in one way what would you do?

K Quan: I would definitely give back to my city and neighborhood. That's at the top of my priority list!

Connect with K Quan on Social Media:

Twitter: @YRBKQuan

Instagram: @_kquan

Fashion Interview with Ty from District 81 & The Flagship!

 

Charisma: When did you realize you had a passion for fashion?

 

Ty: I realized I was interested in fashion back in 2001 during my sophmore year in college while I was working at Saks Fifth Avenue.

 

Charisma: How long has your boutique been at this specific location?

 

Ty: We've been here for a year and a half now..

 

Charisma: What's your best selling item?

 

Ty: I would have to say crew necks, sweatshirts and hoodies.

 

Charisma: I know you get a lot of male celebrity customers. If you had to pick, who was your favorite?

 

Ty: Umm, Fabolous.

Charisma: What advice do you have for future fashionistas looking to start their own business?

 

Ty: I would say try to produce things that are not already saturated in the market. Be innovative!

 

Charisma: What celebrity are you really looking forward to working with when it comes to your boutique?

 

Ty: Jay-Z!

 

Charisma: Do you ever feel pressured or in competition with similar stores as your own?

 

Ty: No! There's no pressure because no one is in our lane. No competition exist and if it does it's between the two brands in the store!

 

Charisma: Ok, last question! Do you have any social media handles where customers can browse your merchandise?

 

Ty: Yes, it's @district_81 and www.district81clothing.com

 

Interview with Songwriter Mavelle!

Charisma: How long have you been a songwriter?

 

Mavelle: I've been writing for over 10 years, but I have been published since 2011

 

Charisma: When did you realize you had a passion for music/songwriting?

 

Mavelle: I always had a passion for music as far back as I can remember. From an early age I was always making up little songs and humming melodies, but I was very shy. I started playing brass instruments and singing in elementary school and my passion developed from then on. I made my first beat in high school and I turned my bedroom into a studio after that! It wasn't until college, that I really began to get serious about learning how to write songs! Music is part of who I am and I couldn't be more grateful.

Charisma: What were your emotions when you found out the song you wrote "Stay&Fight" was going to be featured on Tamar Braxton's album?

 

Mavelle: I had heard that we made the album and was very excited, but in this business I have come to learn you don't make the album til the album is released; so when my best friend sent me a text with a picture of the pre-order tracklist on iTunes I knew then and I think I screamed out a little! We all work very hard to get a shot at commercial success and this record was my first release so it was very special to me and I am very grateful to all who were involved.

Charisma: What inspired "Stay&Fight"?

 

Mavelle: "Stay&Fight" was inspired by a real relationship that I was in. At that time we were on our last legs and in my heart I knew it was over. This song was written in one sense to help me heal, to accept that I had done all I could and as inspiration for that one real love that would come along and would be worth fighting for. I want this song to heal and inspire people to put in effort to those valuable relationships that so rarely come into our lives. But it's important to note not all relationships are meant to be forever and it's ok to fight for yourself

Charisma: Are you working on any music projects now?

 

Mavelle: I am. I have most recently worked with One of my biggest influences and mentors Tricky Stewart, who co - produced "stay and fight" on several projects, including Kelly Rowland and the Pussy Cat Dolls. I also have a record on Akon's new album and records with Mya for her highly anticipated album! There is lots more in the pipeline and I'm looking forward to a great 2014!

 

Charisma: What artist do you really want to write a hit for?

Mavelle: I would love to work with anyone who is cool! Off top, Gaga, Lourde, Ty $, Rihanna, Jason Aldean, R Kelly, Beyonce, Ariana Grande, August Alsina. The list goes on lol!

Contact Charisma!

STAY CONNECTED WITH CHARISMA!!!

Twitter - @CharismaMM

Instagram - @Rissy103

Email - Charismamiller.info@yahoo.com

Interview With Utah Jazz Trey Burke!

Charisma: What were your thoughts when you heard your name selected as the number nine draft pick?

Trey: I had mixed emotions but at the same time, I knew something was going on because I knew that Timberwolves draft me and they already had a point guard. Then I found out I got traded! Going to Utah, I felt was a good fit for me and I felt like I had the opportunity to come in and play right away.

Charisma: Did you cry? I would have cried.

Trey: Nah, I didn't but I was very happy. A lot of people said I didn't look happy but I was happy. I had a good time that night.

Charisma: I watched it and you didn't look happy though. You looked cocky like "I knew I was going to get picked." (laughs)

Trey: Yeah, I knew I was going to get picked but at the same time I didn't know where I was going. So a lot of it may have look like I was mad but I was actually nervous because at the same time I didn't know where I was going to end up.

Charisma: Who is your favorite player?

Trey: Like in the past or right now?

Charisma: It doesn't matter. The past or right now.

Trey: In the past my favorite had to be Allen Iverson and you know, Michael Jordan. Those are like the main two players I watched a lot.

Charisma: I seen a interview you did with Jalen Rose and you said Allen Iverson was your favorite player because you both shared the same similarities being small and underrated.

Trey: Right, right.

Charisma: So, who are you looking forward to playing this season?

Trey: Pretty much everybody! I get that question a lot. You know it's not just a certain people, every night is going to be a talent show. All the all-stars, Westbrook, Tony Parker, whoever. I'm looking forward to playing against them all. My biggest thing is im trying to win and you know the only way to win is to compete.

Charisma: Right! So, were almost done. What do you like to do in your spare time?

Trey: I like to just relax. I like to read, play video games, and watch movies. And...I don't know, just enjoy myself. As a athlete you work really hard and a lot of times you're really tired and you don't feel like doing much.

Charisma: Do you have a celebrity crush? If so, who?

Trey: Ummm, nah I don't. Honestly. (laughs)

Charisma: (laughs) Ok.

Trey: (laughs)

Charisma: (laughs) You must have one because you're still laughing.

Trey: (laughs) Nah, I don't. Nah, I don't for real.

Charisma: Ok. If you could help out the world in one way what would you do and how would you do it?

Trey: I would give back to everyone that did something for me as well as the community I come from. I know that's really important and that's one reason why I wanted to go to the NBA, which was to help others. Once i'm in position to do that, I'm going to be the first one willing to do it. Like go back to my old recreation center, my old elementary and middle school, the community I grew up in and just give back.

Charisma: That's so good! Ok, this is my last question. What advice do you have for young teens especially young men trying to accomplish their dreams?

Trey: My advice is, do something that you really have a passion for. Something you really love and just focus. Dedicate your time, after GOD obviously. Do whatever you want to do. If it's a athlete be an athlete. Just make sure you're putting in the proper amount time to get to the level you're trying to get to because if not you're just wasting your time!

Charisma: Thank you so much for doing this. I've been trying to get in contact with you guys but you're so busy! Much success and I wish you well!

Trey: Thank you, appreciate it!

Charisma: You're welcome and happy early birthday!

Trey: Thank you!

Remembering September 11th, 2001

Today marks tweleve years since the tragedy of September 11th. Here's a poem I decided to write on  behalf of the innocent individuals that lost their lives. I could'nt imagine losing a loved one in such a devastating way. Not to mention in a way where they were just helpless and unable to defend themselves. Today is the day we pay our respects and offer our condolences. Gone but never forgotten xoxo. -Charisma Miller

 

 

 

Sometimes it's the simple things we take for granted, like life for an example

We often complain about things that we could'nt handle,
But imagine all fear of being on that plane
Hoping to remain calm when all things were insane,
Innocent lives were taken, that will never be given back
Yes, these are the results of the September 11th attack,
Small children and sister's, father's and mother's
And let's not forget about the lives of our brothers,
Fighting to save lives, but it just didnt work
Now sadly, their families are left to be hurt,
Tons of emotion and ongoing pain
When the towers were on fire, where was the rain,
But let's not dwell, because only GOD know best
And obviously this attack was apart of his test,
So when it comes to the victims, let's celebrate them all
Because one day in life we'll all get that call,
Hopefully not as tragic but we all must leave
And reunite in heaven where we all can breathe.

Written By Charisma Miller

 

Covering The Stage Production "Just For The Love of Money"

On Saturday, August 10th, 2013 I had the pleasure to cover the stage play "Just For The Love of Money" written by the lovely Sheila Finn and directed by the talented Marquise Hodges! This was definitely a great experience and I'm so grateful for the opportunity. Read more below!

 

MEET MARQUISE HODGES!

 

Marquise Hodges and Charisma Miller.

Marquise was given the opportunity to put together his first stage production back in 1996. He also revised the original copy of "Somthing Special Is About To Happen" which was written and produced by his father, Mr. Marquise D. Hodges. After the passing of his father in 1999, Marquise continued to stay inspired by his father and decided to keep his legacy going. During the interview Marquise stated that he admires several directors in the industry but if given the opportunity he would love to work with Chip Fields, Lee Daniels and Loren D. Harper. Lastly, Marquise offered words of encouragement.

"Stay focused, Keep dreaming, Keep working, and Stay consistent with passion." -Marquise Hodges 

 

MEET SHEILA FINN!

Sheila Finn and Charisma Miller.

Sheila has been a writer for over 15 years but now it's her time to shine! "Just For The Love of Money" was her first major stage production. Sheila says that she's really inspired by TJ Hemphill and Tyler Perry. After asking Sheila what's one piece of advice she could offer to aspiring writers, she replied "Have A mentor and study!"

My great friend, Teilor Ward. Teilor was the head make-up artist for the show. Great job Tei!

Quicks snaps beforegetting started. Teilor Ward and Charisma Miller.

 

 

 

Local Entrepreneurs - DETROIT EDITION: Teilor Ward

Introducing Teilor Ward!

 

 

 Today I had the pleasure to work with the beautiful Teilor Ward, an up and coming make-up artist from Detroit, Michigan. Not only is Teilor a very good friend of mine but she's an amazing make-up artist on the rise. Ladies, if you're anything like me you hate looking like the next chick. Do you feel like EVERY female in the city of Detroit goes to the same make-up artist? *pause* Yeah, me too! Well, no need to worry it's a new creative genius in town named Teilor Ward and she's ready to change the game.

Q: When did you become interested in make-up and skin care?

A: I always been extremely interested in make-up. At first I thought it was just me being extremely girly! I loved the thought of getting all dolled up, whether if I was going somewhere special or not. During my junior year of high school my passion for wanting to do make-up became strong because I realized I like wearing make-up for the fun of it but other girls were wearing because they had skin problems such as acne or skin discoloration which caused them to have self esteem issues. At that very moment I thought to myself, "What if I could change pretty to gorgeous?" I instantly knew what that could do for their confidence. I loved the thought of being able to make someone's day but that just wasn't enough for me. I needed to be able to clear the underlined problem so they would be strong enough to have confidence at all times, not just with a face full of make-up. That's when my passion for skin care came in.

Q: Who is your favorite make-up artist?

A: It's a lot of great make-up artists out right now but if I had to select one, I would have to say Donovan Lamar.

Q: If you could be a make-up artist for any celebrity how would it be and why?

A: Easy, Taraji P. Henson! She is so beautiful to me. I love her face, she has wonderful skin, and a nice sized eyelid which would allow me to be more detailed around the eyes.

Q: If people want to come to you for service where are you located and what are your hours of operation?

A: 19492 Livernois at Charles Julian Hair Salon & Spa. I'm available upon request Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00am until 6:00pm.

 

You can follow Teilor on instagram at: @_musicfein

 

Happy Birthday Solange!

Happy Birthday to one of the number one fashion icons of today,

SOLANGE KNOWLES!!!

 

Solange definitely knows how to mingle around and stay relevant without always being referred to as "Beyonce's little sister". Today is Solo's birthday and I decided to put together a fashion tribute capturing twenty-seven of her iconic moments for her twenthy-seventh birthday!

 

 

photo credit: google

 

Work for Beyonce For A Day!

It's not everyday that you're offered a chance to meet Beyonce, let alone work for her. As we all know, die hard King Bey fans will do just about anything in their power to get next to the musical diva.

Well, here's your chance! The thirty-one year old southern belle is offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to work as a one-day stylist for a show on her current tour, The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour. Sounds like a dream come true right? We must say Bey has been around her husband for too long because his business mentality is definitely starting to rub off on her. In order to work as Beyonce's stylist for a day....*get ready you guys*.....YOU HAVE TO PAY $25,000! Now, I know what you're thinking. You all are probably like," What does she need with $25,000? She's already rich." However, Bey isn't going to pocket the money! The $25,000 is going to Miss A Meal, which is a chairty that helps feed the homeless.

The lucky winner will also have a meet and greet with Beyonce backstage at the concert and have lunch with the famous fashion designer with Mrs.Tina Knowles, the mother of King Bey.

Rihanna Lawsuit Against The Top Shop!

 

Well, I guess Rihanna wasn't lying in her hit single Pour It Up off her lastest ablum Unapolegetic when she said "All I see is signs, All I see is dollar signs" because our favorite Bajan princess is headed straight to the bank for a $5 Million dollar lawsuit against one of our favorite clothing stores, The Top Shop.

Rihanna and her management team were notified that the popular clothing store happened to be selling merchandise with Rihanna's pictures without her consent. You see, the company buys celebrity pictures from the photographers but doesn't pay the artist for promotion. At first, Rihanna and her team politely asked the company to stop using Rihanna's face to promote their brand but the company ignored their request. The Top Shop offered Rihanna $5,000 dollars and continued to sell their merchandise. Rihanna was highly offended with the offer by the multi-million dollar company. Rihanna has decided to take matters into her own hands, legal wise. So far Rihanna has spent $1 Million dollars in litigation towards the lawsuit. Rihanna says, "It's the principle and what they're doing is wrong. They're taking advantage and exploiting artists and something must be done."

We're rooting for you RiRi, get that money girl!