Music: ROBBI THE PROMOTER

Posted on September 1, 2020September 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Robbi The Promoter is based in New York City. He began promoting in 1995 and currently promotes dance parties (in and outside of New York), web sites, clothing, dance music videos + releases, and is affectionately known as the “5 Time Award-Winning Best Promoter”, winning Undergroundarchives’ Best Promoter award five years in a row (2000-2005). His promotional reach extends from Chicago to Philly, Miami and beyond.

He also “shops” music to labels and has played a major part “raising” (promoting/managing) a few DJs, from the ground up, such as Ian Friday, Mr.V, Alix Alvarez, Adam Rios + Mark Francis, and Miguel Ortiz, just to name a few.

His managing and promoting has single-handedly made Chicago legends DJ Wayne Williams and DJ Alan King more popular in New York and cities outside of Chicago.

He’s also a “filter” for DJs, which simply means that promoters from all over contact him to book DJs which in turn, he refers them to the actual DJ or their booking agents.

He has a blast doing all of this all day, which makes his “pro” life pretty much his personal life.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why did you decide to pursue the business side of the House music industry and become involved in the marketing and promotion of dance parties?

Robbi The Promoter: Actually I never planned for it to get this far nor be a promoter. I simply love the music but was always too broke to get into clubs. I used to go to these parties called the “Underground Network” and asked around if there was anything I can do to help. So, I was introduced to Cedric Freedom (RIP), Barbara Tucker (yes the Queen of House music), and Don Welch, who ran that party. So funny! It was a meeting that lasted not even 30 seconds…..They gave me a stack of flyers and told me to go hand them out!

GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years you have become what some would call a legendary promoter in the House community. How do you feel about possessing that title?

Robbi The Promoter: Without a doubt I feel great about it. First, I’m probably the only one in the world that uses promoting as an art form. I mean from the time I was handed that first stack of flyers, I’ve been extremely creative with the way I do things. My aim daily is to impress folks with insane thought process that constantly evolves ……for most part, it’s like watching a legendary DJ do those distinct tricks.

GO BANG! Magazine: There are many people that may call themselves promoters that simply share flyers or events on Facebook. Is that all it takes to be a promoter or does promoting consist of more than that?

Robbi The Promoter: Well to be honest, one can succeed in doing just that if they have a ton of followers, but of course promoting consists of way more than that.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about you or your personality that make you effective as a promoter?

Robbi The Promoter: I actually don’t have much of a personality and very poor social skills. When I’m out, I don’t talk much, sit at bars, engage in convos or any of that stuff. But, it’s the way I do things and the artists I’m associated with that brings attention to me and the things I’m involved in.

GO BANG! Magazine: Not only do you promote dance parties, you also promote websites, clothing, music and more. What is the difference in promoting products versus events?

Robbi The Promoter: Parties, websites, and clothing, I target everyone. As far as for Music, I target DJs and people I know who collect music.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve promoted events in the U.S. and abroad, including here in Chicago, the home of House music. What in particular do you like about promoting Chicago DJ’s and events?

Robbi The Promoter: When working with the Chosen Few DJs and Ron Trent, first the most important thing they NEVER do is crowd or micromanage me (as I’m quick to get away from the controlling types.) They’re swift in providing me with tools I need and working with them is naturally smooth and exciting. Speaking of tools, lemme give a quick shout out to dude MOE (moeknowsbest.com ) the media/artwork/web design guy for the Chosen Few. In my 26 years, his work is the best I’ve seen.

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is interested in becoming a promoter, but don’t know exactly how to begin or if they have what it takes?

Robbi The Promoter: First learn and love whatever you’re interested in doing. If you’re desperate and just geared on becoming a star, it’s not going to happen and you’re going to look stupid (to me at least.)

Just starting off?? I’d suggest take a course in Marketing.

Avoid being exclusive to working with one person it never ends well. For example, I’ve seeing tons of so called EXCLUSIVE promoters benched during the pandemic.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

Robbi The Promoter: I’ve been keeping things moving here. Closed clubs have been replaced with promoting VIRTUAL DJs, festivals and there’s still music, etc.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is next on the agenda for you? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future, after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

Robbi The Promoter: As soon as clubbing restarts (if ever), I’m ready to relaunch my UPTEMPO party (residents Franke Estevez and Duce Martinez) at a nice club in Brooklyn.

You can follow Robbi The Promoter on ALL social media formats:
IG@robbipromoter05
FB@robbiethepromoternyc

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Music/Business/Nightlife: REG ‘DJ BOXX’ ANDERSON, Bosar Music

Posted on September 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Boxx – An established presence in House music, as well as being a complete DJ and Producer in the industry. He’s a long time Chicago DJ, beginning from his first residency at the Galaxy Disco in 1985 at the age of 17.

Boxx has had the opportunity to play in many cities and venues in recent years throughout the country and world including Nassau Bahamas, Dallas, TX – Crown & Harp, Sandaga, Renaissance, Truth, The Shrine, “The Silver Room Block Party”, The Mid, Da House Spot, The Garage, Evil Olive, Cuatro, and several other Chicago venues.

Boxx also plays consistently at venues and events across the country. For instance, New Jersey’s Club Elevation and Club Lush to New York’s Coney Island, Houston’s Club 4212, Detroit’s Club Mix, The White House, TV Lounge, “Beautiful Sundays” at Motor City Wine, Atlanta’s Club Velour, “House In The Park” and many more venues in Miami.

Having had the opportunity to live in Chicago and Dallas at the same time, he held a dual city residency at The Garage / Code Red in Chicago and “The Deep Inside” parties in Dallas for three years.
Boxx has been a Cyberjamz Radio programmer, the founding member of Ascension, and a member of Nu Bang. Along the way, he has produced many new releases, edits and re-edits that eventually lead to the launch of his label Bosar Music.

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first get interested and bit by the DJ bug?

DJ Boxx: The DJ bug didn’t hit me until 1978. I was 12 years old. Me and a few friends from 35th, where I grew up, loved skating and there was skating on Saturdays at the old YMCA on 37th and Wabash. Well, we had normally been going to other rinks like Markham, etc. so I never really saw the DJ equipment being used. Well at the YMCA, the DJ was set-up basically on the skating floor. We walked in and I could see a table with the two turntables and some device in the middle, for which I had no idea what it was. But, I stood there on my skates basically the whole time watching him transition from song to song in amazement. I was instantly mesmerized that this could be done. I was used to playing one record after the other at home. After bugging the DJ and asking him “what’s this?” and “what’s that?” I immediately came home and began to ask my Mom to get me some equipment. Of course she was not having any of that once we realized the prices. LOL. But, two years later, my mom sent me to go live with my Dad in the 100s’.

My Dad saw the need to keep me busy when me, my brothers and cousins weren’t playing baseball, to keep us (me) out of the streets. Well of course he got the pitch about turntables and DJ gear since he was an audio & music enthusiast himself, but he never said ok. Well…one day in the summer of 1980, he came home and yelled from the garage, “Reggie, Mark, Kevin, come get this equipment out of my car!” Imagine the shock! I had already been buying music, etc. because I knew I would DJ someday. It was an undeniable passion that still burns just as hot on that June day in 1980.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please describe the DJ Boxx sound to our readers, explain why you named yourself Boxx, and what separates you from other DJs?

DJ Boxx: This is going to be a long answer (LOL). The DJ Boxx sound is fluid, flexible, energy received and energy returned. It can be gritty, soulful, energized, good feeling, tone setting, encompassing and far reaching. I’ve had many people over the years, suggest or say I should drive this lane or that lane, but the music in me needs to be expressed. I stay ready to lead or adjust, based on what’s in front of me. So the lane thing never intrigued me. Why can’t I play new music, as well as disco, classics, afro, pure underground, acid and even stretch to hip hop, R&B, Jazz, Reggae etc.? I still study music. My musical mental library is etched in my brain and soul. I get booked to do several different types of events and some actually require a full pallet of music to be played. But best believe, whichever it is, it’s going to be played at the highest of levels…bar none!

The name Boxx does not connote what most believe it to (LOL). Way back in the day, I went by another DJ name (Reggie ‘Remixin’ Anderson). After starting my pro DJ career in 1985, I abruptly stopped DJing due to some personal things going on in 1990. I wouldn’t play again professionally until 2003. Well, in between that time, I met some buddy’s and we worked together for a number of years. We always roasted and cracked jokes on each other. One day, me and a good friend Cedrick Hicks were going at it. I made a crack on him and he replied, “I know you’re not talking with yo’ big Boxx head ass.” It just so happened that about eight guys we knew and worked with were coming thru the door at that exact moment. They chimed in, “Yeah Reg, you do have a big ass Boxx head.” From that point on, everyone I knew and was around at the time started calling me Boxx. It ended up sticking and when I started DJing again, I just leveraged the nickname into DJ BOXX.

What separates me from other DJ’s is that number one, we are all a total of our own individual experiences in life and music and that is going to always lend towards individuality. Now I do believe my mental musical library, my flexibility to play extremely well, no matter the format, are huge for me. But one thing I truly believe is a factor, is my accessibility. I am not stand-offish and I actually truly enjoy all of my supporters.

GO BANG! Magazine: Who are your mentors, who inspire you and who motivates you?

DJ Boxx: I was actually a self-taught DJ. So when the radio mixes started in Chicago, I was already pretty well into the culture and techniques of it. I would say Herb Kent was a huge influence because before we had House, as we would come to know it, Herb would do this “Punk Out” hour every Saturday and he opened my ear and mind up to all this cutting edge new wave / punk music that was taking over the city. Then we began to take a turn toward House, as we would come to know it, and the radio stations began playing the mixes.

Well, I had the equipment and a little know how, but I wasn’t polished. So, I keyed in on a couple DJs on the radio for different aspects. I listened to Ron (Hardy) & Farley (Keith) live and Farley and Scott Silz on the radio for content. I would key in on Scott Silz and Ralphie Rosario for technical aspects. I would then go mimic everything I heard until I got it refined. Then, I met Julian Perez when I transferred from Simeon (HS) to Proviso West in 83′. I worked with him for the next three years as an understudy, you could say. His technical ability was the best I’d seen at the time and I emulated what I saw. He put me on at the Galaxy Disco/Dilligafs to open up for him and after he left. That lead to my very first professional residency as a teenager.

The people / DJs that were mentors are Craig Loftis and Celeste Alexander. Celeste is a big sister and we both played integral parts with each other in coming back into the DJing world. Ronda Flowers and Koko were huge in giving me a residency, shortly after I started back DJ’ing in 2003. Craig Loftis was right there too. He put me into rotation on some pretty cool events early on and I can’t leave out DJ Reg (Reg McClain.) He booked me for my first pro set after coming back. DJ Emanuel and Ms. Wynell were huge as well.

The people that motivate me are…the DJs that I have helped and continue to help me: Boolu (Master) is my cousin. To see where he’s gone after breaking all my needles trying to learn is massive. G-Whip is another cousin that is coming into his own. To see the spark light up and turn into a fire is motivating to me. Eric “DJ Eaze” Robinson was an understudy of mine and he wanted to learn bad, but didn’t know much about DJ’ing. I had him carry equipment, roll cables, hook up gear, break down and repack…thinking he’d say F-this! (LOL) But, he never gave up. He stuck with it, has become his own DJ, with his own brand, and now gets his own bookings. He also takes some overflow gigs for me. My other motivation is Fiddy Millz and Dee Jay Alicia. I think we all push the hell out of each other, kinda like steel sharpening steel. But not just in music, but in the walk of life. Music brought us together, but it’s love and family now. In helping others, it brings motivation. Not just musically, but personally. I always tell people if you’re feeling down and out…go help someone!

GO BANG! Magazine: You are a member of two entertainment groups, Ascension and Nu Bang. Please describe your connection to the groups and explain their impact to the nightlife community.

DJ Boxx: I first became a member of Nu Bang in 2009, so it’s been a while. Immediately upon becoming a part of Bang, I began working closely with Greg Gray, Celeste (Alexander), Craig Loftis, Sammy Rock, Tim Mc Callister and others on DJ’ing, promotion, production and the growth and representation of the Nu Bang Collective. Nu Bang connections opened many, many doors for me that probably would’ve been otherwise closed. It created opportunity to create relationships outside of Chicago that stretch around the globe.

Ascension (Elevate Your Mind, Body & Soul) – Ascension was an idea I came up with in 2013, but never acted on it because it was a lot going on DJ-wise for me. I currently had two residencies at the time, one in Chicago and one in Dallas. I had the vision and the idea of what I wanted it to look and feel like. So, when the Chicago residency ended, I sat down with my Ascension co-founder, (she didn’t know she was going to be that at the time) Lisa Henderson and I expressed my vision and desire for her to be a part of it. I really loved Lisa’s presence and energy. I felt as though she was the missing piece to the puzzle. Besides being friends and working together on events, she showed a level of professionalism, engagement, compassion and energy that I felt was needed to craft the Ascension characterization.

This ideology was the idea of impact on the nightlife scene that was envisioned. We wanted to be inclusive and not exclusive. Sure the music is paramount, but we wanted people to have a great time, grasp the good energy, vibes, the hugs and the laughs. Don’t think you’re just welcome…know that you’re home! We wanted the warmth, so we brought even more good vibes with G-Whip and Toni Marie joining us. We wanted to bring in and book DJs that are far reaching, as well as the DJ that maybe needs to get heard more. We are a collective of people that genuinely care about your experience at any Ascension event, rather it be at one of our monthly parties, personal party, party in another city or on an island in the Bahamas!

GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to being a DJ, you were a radio programmer and you have your own record label, Bosar Music. How has being a DJ influenced your abilities as a programmer and a label owner?

DJ Boxx: DJ’ing is the catalyst for all of that. I feel to be an effective, well-rounded DJ, you really have to have the study of music and its organization has to be almost effortless mentally. The ability to recall names, sounds, feels and sound textures is really what a DJ does. So, joining Cyberjamz and doing a mix show for three years was huge for me. I also did “Gotta Have House Radio” with my man Kenny Ray. The gathering of newer music at the time and its presentation was huge in getting in step with what the scene had become. Launching the label was natural. I felt as though the DJ opportunities and the programming show had given me the ear I needed to say, “I’m just not going to produce music for release on others labels.” I thought I’d start my own. So I went to work to gather the knowledge to do it correctly. House music was fresh, energized and new again to me.

GO BANG! Magazine: What type of music does Bosar Music produce, who are some of your past/present artists, what type of artists are you looking for, and how did you arrive at the name Bosar?

DJ Boxx: Bosar produces mostly Soulful House. Under the Bosar identity, even prior to starting the label, I’ve worked with Darryl Pandy…unreleased at this time. (DJ) Gene Hunt and I are about to re-work. My first full release was “Send For Me“ with Carla Prather: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoHAXgwPmLc. Wincie Collins did a beautiful spoken word on “Music Is My Love: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QtUhcC7MQ4 . Both released on Sophisticado Recordings. I’ve worked with Derrick Sales (DJ Sound) on a Luther Vandross remix “Wanna Love” that was released on TMC and eventually Bosar Music. Lafayette Parker was the vocalist on “Heavenly Journey” with me doing the spoken word part released on Joe Smooth’s label. Franky Parker performed on “Fly Free” with remixes from Sean Ali and Salah Ananse, released on Bosar. https://www.traxsource.com/title/775661/fly-free. I’ll also be releasing a production with Koffee (First Flowetrest of House) from New Jersey this year and two projects with some amazing performers from Detroit as well. It’s literally about six projects on the table including one with my Carla Prather.

Bosar is an acronym for – Boxx of Soul and Rhythm.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve experienced the House community as a DJ from various cities of America. Could you please describe the House scene here in Chicago and compare and contrast the scene to other locations you’ve spinned in?

DJ Boxx: Excluding the current pandemic (COVID-19), up to that point, and for as long as I can remember, Chicago has had the most consistent number of events / parties on weekly basis that I’ve experienced. Not being a homer either, I do believe that Chi has the largest concentration of DJs of any city, but also the best DJs. I think the number of DJs and opportunities to play created a vacuum. DJs in Chicago had to get good, out of sheer desire for a chance to even be considered to play.

I’ve played just about everywhere there is to play in the U.S., from the east coast to west coast, South Beach to Canada. Most of these other cities tend to have a complete diverse mix of dancers at a higher concentration than Chicago, I must admit. In Dallas, depending on the section, the music is wide ranging and accepted. If the doors open in Dallas at 9pm, at 9:05 the DJ has a full floor. In Chi, we are fashionably late. (LOL) I love the symmetry between the DJ and the Dancer in New York, it’s a flow. They get it in, but different than in Chi. It’s the same energy, but different. New Jersey is very close to Chicago in terms of feel, flow and energy. I really feel of parties in Houston as well. They are very receptive to the DJ, as well as in San Diego. Atlanta is very natural in its feel. It is a great chance to be very expressive with natural vibes and rhythms, when you DJ there. Detroit is awesome…gotta bring your energy! Chicago is a collective of all of these in my opinion. You can find all these aspects in one degree or the other here, while still holding on to the Disco/House foundation.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

DJ Boxx: Maaan, it’s heavy. It has thrown off a number of things for me professionally, as well as personally, like everyone else. Personally, I have been very selective about what I do, where I go and whom I’m around.

I can say that I can count on my hands and toes, the number of people I’ve been around constantly. I don’t do conspiracy theories. I’ve believed the seriousness of the virus since it was first made public. I know individuals who have lost their lives to it. So to that aspect, it is very personal.

As I type this, I’ve just had my third Covid test a few days ago. I believe we owe it not just to ourselves, but to our families and society, to make sure we follow the guidelines to limit the spread of this virus.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is next on the agenda for you? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future, after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

DJ Boxx: Of course! The Bosar Music Production is in full-ops mode at the moment for upcoming releases as we speak. Nu Bang Clan is moving toward bringing in new members.

Ascension plus “The Squad”, which extends beyond Ascension itself, is planning some things for the near and far future, virtual events later in the year and hopefully real events next year. We are putting our faith in hopes that we’ll be beyond this pandemic.

Virtual events coming up are:
“BACK2BACK” w/ Dee Jay Alicia every Saturday 7:30 – 1:30am – http://Twitch.com/deejayalicia

“HOUSE STOCK 2020” Virtual Broadcast Sunday Sept 6th: https://facebook.com/events/s/house-stock-2020-virtual-broad/1202551810099670/?ti=cl

And of course mixes are always on Mixcloud:https://www.mixcloud.com/djboxx/

GO BANG! Magazine: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

DJ Boxx: I found the officers’ actions and lack of care and concern for Mr. Floyd to be completely void of the level of humanity to even call oneself a human. What I saw was evil in action. Hate in its purest form.

Individuals that will behave in that fashion do not need to hold a badge in this society. Regarding police reform…sure. There’s also a need for further psychological training, in relation to arrests and responses. Hell, maybe even some sensitivity training. However, I do not feel that the “defund the police” aspect would be good for society…well definitely not here in Chicago.

You can follow DJ BOXX on FB: @DJ Boxx, @RegAnderson, @BosarMusic, on IG @DJBoxx, and on Twitch @BoxxBosar

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business/Film/Television: AVERY KELLEY, Inspired Melanin LLC., “Soul Train Soul Change”

Posted on September 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Avery Kelley is a name to keep in mind. Ms. Kelley is an up and coming writer, director and producer from the Southside of Chicago. Avery is 12 years old and entering the seventh grade. Since a little girl, she has loved everything about the Arts; dancing, singing, and her passion being writing.

While extremely talented, Avery thinks of herself as an average kid. She loves to hang out with friends, eat pizza and have sleepovers with her besties on the weekend. Ms. Kelley is an honor student at Keller Regional Gifted Center, embracing all facets of school, earning straight A’s since kindergarten. Avery has placed in her schools Science Fair, Speech Arts Competitions and Spelling Bee throughout the years. During the previous school year, Avery participated in the History Fair competition, creating the documentary “Soul Train, Soul Change”, which spoke to how Soul Train broke barriers in the entertainment industry, while being a significant part of the civil rights movement. Avery’s documentary, placed in the school, city and state competitions, advancing to nationals and winning the outstanding entry for the State of Illinois. Her documentary was also recognized by the National Museum of African American History and Culture, exhibited in their digital showcase.

As hard as Ms. Kelley works on her schoolwork during the week, she just as passionately pursues her love for the Arts on the weekend. Avery has studied dance at Studio One Dance Theatre for the past 10 years, taking Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Hip Hop and African dance. Avery has also participated in the Chicago Children’s Choir for two years. Singing and dancing have always made Avery happy, but her passion is writing. In the words of Ms. Kelley, “I write with every emotion, when I am happy, sad, afraid or mad. My outlet is my journal, telling stories that I want the world to see. It is my dream to have one of my scripts someday turned into a television series.”

Most recently Ms. Kelley has penned a dramatic comedy, which she states is inspired by some of her life experiences. Avery began writing this series during Spring Break of 2018. Ms. Kelley states, “I decided to write a script for a television series, because I wanted to see a show with a different concept than many of the shows you see today. So, I decided to create my own.” In Spring 2019, Ms. Kelley filmed a short episode of her series, entering it into the Mustard Seed Vision Youth Film Festival. At this festival, Ms. Kelley was awarded the Leadership award for her work. Since then she has been writing full speed ahead, working on various creative projects, and continuing to take classes to hone her craft.

Avery Kelley’s entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, drive and perseverance has her shooting for the stars. Her sentiments are that “many writers start small, growing their work into award winning pieces. This is the dream I have for my work. Although young in age, I know I can have BIG dreams. And with commitment and dedication, those dreams can turn into a reality. I am committed, I am dedicated, I am history in the making.”

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get involved in so much business and entertainment activity at such a young age?

Avery Kelley: I’ve always loved entertainment. My parents say that when I was younger, I would say “when I grow up I want to be in there” (pointing at the TV). In the summer of 2018, I got in trouble with my parents for abusing my phone privileges (texting non-stop) and the punishment was I couldn’t use my phone for a week. To help me find an alternative outlet, my mom bought me a writing journal. Initially, I loved it because it was pink and had my favorite animal, a flamingo, all over. But the upcoming days, revealed a passion that I hadn’t realized was there. This was the summer that I started writing my first scripted series. Fast forward a couple months later, I started practicing the script with my friends at school during recess.

At the beginning of the new year, my mom asked how were things going and I responded “you are hindering my life dreams.” I explained this passion I had for writing to my parents and let them read my journal. They were impressed and said, we will help you as much as we can and try to help you connect with people who have more expertise. They suggested for me to contact a local talent agency and tell them my story. I did, and the agency responded telling me about a Youth Film Festival that was being hosted by Mustard Seed Vision. I created a short film, as a preview for my series for the festival. It was all I ever dreamed of. My parents saw my commitment and excitement in this process and decided to help me pursue my dream of becoming the youngest screenwriter of a scripted television series or feature film on a major platform/network. I work hard daily, every extra moment I get from school work, to make this dream come true. I’m just getting started.

GO BANG! Magazine: Mom, (Amy Kelley) please describe Avery to our readers who may not be familiar with her.

Amy Kelley: “We are blessed to have Avery as our child. Don’t get me wrong, she still is a 12-year old girl. However, she is a great kid. Avery is fun loving, hardworking, and compassionate. She loves to talk…loves…to…talk!!! She is passionate about all things that mean something to her, like her family, her friends…HER WRITING. Avery has a work ethic that is truly amazing. I have watched her in the past two years, commit to learning about being a screenwriter and director. She has taken classes, attended seminars, even asked for books on the topic for Christmas. Often, when we ask her what she is doing (when she is super quiet in her room), she will say…WRITING. Her passion to succeed in this field in undeniable, and even at 12 years old, she is willing to put in the work.”

“But she also has a passion for others. She believes there is a star in the sky for everyone, and loves to see others shine. Her passion, work ethic and drive make me proud, but her heart and caring for others, let me know I am so blessed to be her mom.”

GO BANG? Magazine: Dad, (Charles Kelley, Jr.) how does it feel to have your little girl growing up and becoming a young, black businesswoman?

Charles Kelley, Jr.: “It is a really cool process to see on a daily basis. I feel extremely happy or simply full of joy to see my daughter Avery work so hard to be good at what she chooses to do. As a parent, you want the best for your children, so you offer opportunities and you sacrifice your wants so they can have their needs. What Avery is really good at is the hard work in her preparation, the little things that many will never know about, but I see it daily.”

“My joy is to see Avery perform or the performance. I love seeing the finished product because I know how hard she worked to get to that point. My daughter, my heart, is all I ever wanted and I am extremely happy with the Lords blessing, to witness her growth, development and her gifts to this world.”

GO BANG! Magazine: I first became familiar with you after seeing you on television on ABC7 Chicago’s “Windy City Live” this past July. Many others may know you from your “Tweendom” online talk show on the Restream.io platform. For our readers that may not be familiar with the show, please describe your show and what Restream.io is.

Avery Kelley: “Tweendom Talk Show” is a talk show I created for the kids, the teens, and everyone in between. The mission of this show is to inspire youth to be creative, live outside the box, and have fun while doing it. I had the idea for a similar concept for this show prior to COVID. However, when the pandemic struck, I felt like it would never become a reality. I discussed my anxieties with my friends, family and came up with a way to make it work during a pandemic. The show is livestreamed every Friday night at 6:30pm CST on YouTube and Facebook. It has been a great way to reach an audience during the pandemic, and has allowed me to get a better understanding of production. I produce the entire show myself, coming up with weekly topics, finding guests, creating advertisements and other tasks. I am having a blast and have met a lot of great people along the way.

“Restream.io” is a platform that allows me to multi-stream “Tweendom Talk Show”. Restream.io provides multi-streaming services, allowing a live broadcast to stream to more than one social media platform at a time. Without using Restream, I would not be able to stream the show to both YouTube and Facebook. It makes things work, just the way I envisioned.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your short documentary “Soul Train Soul Change” is a tribute to the legendary “Soul Train” television show, and was originally a school project, but it went national. Please explain what motivated you to create the film, how it went national, and how has your life changed since bringing it to the public.

Avery Kelley: My documentary “Soul Train, Soul Change” began as a school project. Every year the 6th grade class at my school has to participate in the “Chicago Metro History Fair” which is a part of the “National History Day” competition. This year’s theme was Breaking Barriers in History, but our teacher required that our topic have Chicago historical context. The competition allows you to submit your project in the form of a paper, exhibit, website, performance, or documentary. Considering my passion for film, I decided to create a documentary.

My inspiration came from watching the television series American Soul on BET. In watching this show, I realized the barriers “Soul Train” broke in the entertainment industry and in doing research, learned of its Chicago historical ties, and therefore selected “Soul Train” as the topic for my History Fair project. After months of hard work, I finally finished the project. It went from winning the school wide competition all the way to placing in the national competition. At nationals I was awarded the Outstanding Entry for the State of Illinois and my project was also selected to be highlighted at the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s virtual showcase. I am so blessed that my project was recognized in this manner.

GO BANG! Magazine: You write for television and for film. Where do the ideas for your writing come from?

Avery Kelley: My ideas for my writing mainly come from my real-life experiences. I am inspired often by day to day occurrences with friends and family. There will often be situations that stick out in my mind and from there my mind drifts off, my imagination kicks in, and I create entire story lines based on one small funny thing that has occurred. I think it’s my way of communication. I write at all times. When I get excited, I run to write…when I am sad, I run and write and when I am frustrated…you guessed it, I grab my journal. The ideas and inspirations can come at the strangest times, but it makes me so happy.

GO BANG! Magazine: Who inspires or motivates you to create?

Avery Kelley: My parents and my grandma inspire and motivate me to create. They are supportive in all that I do and that is motivating and inspiring for me. I have a few favorite creators that I find truly inspiring. A couple of those are Ava DuVernay and Tyler Perry.

Ava DuVernay is a huge inspiration for my work. This is because she uses her platform and her craft to show her audience empowering stories about Black people in America. Her projects such as “Selma”, “Queen Sugar”, “Cherish the Day” and “A Wrinkle In Time” are projects highlighting African Americans that is used to entertain, but also shows them in a positive light. These are types of work I would like to create. The work that she is creating is inspiring an entire generation and I hope to be able to do the same.

I am also inspired by Tyler Perry. He came from the ground up, when building a name for himself. He went from being homeless, to having one of the largest movie studios in the United States. To see his projects featuring primarily an African American cast, is very empowering to watch. I strive to one day create projects that show minorities in a positive light and become the youngest screenwriter of a scripted series or feature film on a major platform. To see Tyler Perry reaching his goals, expand his craft and continuously branching out in the entertainment field is very inspiring, and lets me know that I can achieve my goals too.

GO BANG! Magazine: You are also the CEO of a corporation named Inspired Melanin, LLC…your own company. Tell us how you started a company and what is its purpose?

Avery Kelley: In August 2019, I established the production company “Inspired Melanin”. The mission of this company is to create projects positively highlighting people of color, their journey and experiences. As I began writing and creating, I realized that I wanted to establish a production company that would allow me and others to create programs highlighting our community in a positive light, hence the name, “Inspired Melanin”. My parents assisted with getting all of the legal stuff done to form the company. They are very instrumental in making sure my vision is illustrated in the works of this corporation.

GO BANG! Magazine: Unfortunately, the Arts have been eliminated in many schools, due to budget restraints and underfunding of schools. Please describe how important it is to you to keep arts in schools and in your life as a teenager.

Avery Kelley: The Arts have been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Knowing that so many programs have been eliminated from schools is very disturbing to me. Art programs in schools expose many talented students to a variety of opportunities. It is a shame to know that schools around the country have been eliminating these programs.
For me, like many other students, the Arts are an outlet that highlights the various skills I learn in the classroom. My passion for writing is an extension of skills I gained in school, my love for dance is only improved by concepts I learned in math class. They go hand in hand, one enhances the other. I hope that the schools will find the proper funding to put these Art programs back into the picture for kids to experience, learn from and explore.

GO BANG! Magazine: When you’re not working or writing, what type of things do you like to do for fun?

Avery Kelley: When I’m not working and writing, I love to dance. I have been a dancer at “Studio One Dance Theatre” for the past 10 years and training in dance is one of my favorite things to do! I look at myself as a normal preteen. I like to talk to my friends on the phone or FaceTime, ride my bike and of course, go on social media…especially Tik Tok.

Since starting to write, I enjoy watching television a lot more. I now find myself dissecting shows, watching the editing, the costumes, the lighting, and other facets of a show. Writing has made watching television a much different experience for me now. Now, watching television is like taking a truly fun class.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

Avery Kelley: Socially, I am having a hard time during the pandemic. I am an extrovert and love interacting with people. Not being able to see my friends and family has been hard. I also miss activities like dance class, and going to the beach with friends. But I recognize that for my parents and me, social distancing is the right thing to do, to keep ourselves and others safe.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is next on the agenda for you? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future, after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

Avery Kelley: During the pandemic I have written a ton. I have brand new projects coming up. Unfortunately, I cannot say much about it. However, I am working with my parents on creating a philanthropic piece to Inspired Melanin. I love to serve others and want to make sure that passion is also incorporated into my business.

I’m excited about the future, during the pandemic and beyond. I always plan on reaching for the stars.

GO BANG! Magazine: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Avery Kelley: This situation has been very difficult for me. I watched some of the news clips with my parents. As a 12-year-old black girl, it was difficult to see someone who was a similar build to my dad, harmed by people who are meant to protect us. Luckily my parents have had conversations with me to soothe my fears. I mentioned to them that I don’t ever want to see people judged just because of the color of their skin. They told me that my hopes were similar to those of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, where “people one day would be judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” So, I continue to move forward, hoping in the near future that this dream will be realized.

Social Media Links:
Inspired Melanin

Facebook: Inspired Melanin LLC
Instagram: inspiredmelaninofficial
Website: http://www.inspiredmelanin.com
(See the “Soul Train Soul Change” video on the website)

Tweendom Talk Show
Youtube: Tweendom Talk Show

Avery
Instagram: averyk_official

ABC7 Chicago news spot:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AiWn5nH8Qs

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business: ERIC WILLIAMS / THE SILVER ROOM

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Eric Williams is the founder and creative director of The Silver Room, an innovative retail, arts, and community events space opened in 1997. The Silver Room intersects the worlds of fashion, music and visual art, and operates as a boutique, gallery, and community arts center.

Williams founded “The Silver Room Block Party” in 2004 and in its 16th year attracts over 40,000 people, co-founded” Grown Folks Stories” (a monthly storytelling series), “The Harper Court Summer Music Series” and “Connect Gallery and Arts Festival.”

Williams is currently strategizing concepts that will help to revitalize Chicago’s South and West side communities and fuel their economic growth through retail, arts and culture. Williams holds a degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why do you feel the need to be involved in your community?

Eric Williams: TO BE AN EXAMPLE. IT’S IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO SEE A SMALL BLACK OWNED BUSINESS AND A POSITIVE PLATFORM IN THE COMMUNITY.

GO BANG! Magazine: One of your missions in business is to help revitalize Chicago’s South and West sides. Why did you choose those specific areas?

Eric Williams: THE CONSTANT DISINVESTMENT IN THESE CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOODS HAVE RESULTED IN STRUGGLING COMMUNITIES. WE HAVE TO COMBAT THAT BY CREATING WHAT WE WANT FOR OUR NEIGHBORHOODS.

GO BANG! Magazine: What motivated or inspired you to create The Silver Room?

Eric Williams: I WANTED TO HAVE A SPACE FOR ALL OF MY PASSIONS, A PLACE TO MEET PEOPLE AND MERGE ART, FASHION, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER.

GO BANG! Magazine: The original Silver Room was located on the North side of Chicago. Currently, it’s located in Hyde Park on the South side. What do you believe is the reason your business is so successful in Hyde Park?

Eric Williams: CULTURAL COMPONENTS OF THE STORE ALIGN WITH THE MERCHANDISE. THERE IS A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT WE STAND FOR. PEOPLE IN HYDE PARK WANT TO SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESSES.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re a DJ and I noticed that you incorporated a DJ booth in your store. How has being a DJ influenced you as a businessman?

Eric Williams: MUSIC IS A PASSION OF MINE, WHETHER IT’S SELLING OR PLAYING RECORDS THAT MAKE PEOPLE DANCE OR MIXING IT UP WITH SOMETHING THEY HAVEN’T HEARD BEFORE. TO DJ IS A CRAFT. THE DJ BOOTH INVITES PEOPLE IN TO PRACTICE THAT SKILL.

GO BANG! Magazine: One staple of summer in Chicago is “The Silver Room Block Party,” which started in 2004. This year, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was canceled. What drove you to create the festival and what is your main goal when presenting it each year?

Eric Williams: THE “BLOCK PARTY” WAS A RESPONSE TO CHICAGO FESTIVALS THAT LACKED INCLUSION. I WANTED SOMETHING VIBRANT AND DIVERSE THAT UNIFIES THE COMMUNITY.

GO BANG! Magazine: How can the public help support The Silver Room during these unprecedented times?

Eric Williams: SHOP AT THE SILVER ROOM, SHARE, AND STAY CONNECTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a young, black, male running several businesses, you are an inspiration and motivation to people, especially people of color. How does it feel to know that your success inspires others to succeed?

Eric Williams: IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE EXAMPLES AND A PRESENCE IN THE COMMUNITY. I HOPE TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO SUCCEED IN SIMILAR WAYS.

GO BANG! Magazine: Five years from now, where do you see Eric Williams?

Eric Williams: STILL GOING STRONG, BUILDING THE NON-PROFIT PROXIMITY THAT WILL SUPPORT OTHER BUSINESS, AND WORKING ON A MULTITUDE OF BUSINESSES WITH PLATFORMS FOR OTHER WAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it?

Eric Williams: ON A PERSONAL LEVEL, I’VE BEEN ABLE TO REST AND REFLECT. I’VE ADJUSTED. I STILL HAVE TO MAKE THINGS HAPPEN. THE SHUTDOWN GAVE US THE OPPORTUNITY TO REMODEL AND FOCUS ON ONLINE SALES.

GO BANG! Magazine: Most businesses had to temporarily close due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some businesses even went out of business. During the pandemic the George Floyd murder took place in Minnesota, which caused protests and riots across the world, including here in Chicago. How has the pandemic and the riots affected The Silver Room?

Eric Williams: EVEN WITH THE CHALLENGES OF THE PANDEMIC, WE’VE BEEN ABLE TO FOCUS ON SOME CHANGES TO ENHANCE THE STORE. WHAT HAPPENED TO GEORGE FLOYD SHED A LIGHT ON SOME INEQUITIES IN SOCIETY FOR SOME WHO WEREN’T AWARE.

WE SEE MORE CUSTOMERS INTERESTED IN AND BUYING BOOKS ABOUT RACE. WE’VE HAD MORE SUPPORT FROM PEOPLE WHO MAY NOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY SHOPPED WITH US.

GO BANG! Magazine: Since The Silver Room re-opened in late June, it has been remodeled and has a fresh new look. What are you hoping for your space with its new fresh look?

Eric Williams: I WANT THE SPACE TO BE INSPIRING. I WANTED TO CREATE BEAUTY ON THE SOUTH SIDE. IT’S A REFRESHING AND SLEEK SHOPPING EXPERIENCE, WITH THE SAME VIBE.

GO BANG! Magazine: Lastly, on May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Eric Williams: ANYBODY WITH ANY SENSE OF COMPASSION KNOWS WHAT HAPPENED WAS WRONG. THERE NEEDS TO BE REFORM AND BETTER TRAINING AND HIRING PRACTICES IN LAW ENFORCEMENT. WE LIVE IN A VIOLENT SOCIETY AND THIS HAS MADE PEOPLE TAKE A SECOND LOOK AT THESE ISSUES.

YOU CAN FOLLOW THE SILVER ROOM ON ALL SOCIAL MEDIA FORMATS: @TheSilverRoom

Business: JONATHAN T. SWAIN / KIMBARK BEVERAGE SHOPPE

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

While his background spans a variety of industries and sectors, Jonathan T. Swain has always been a strategic thinker driven to solve problems, specifically those that affect the individuals and communities in Chicagoland.

After receiving his undergraduate degree from Duke University, Jonathan earned a Juris Doctor degree from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. Immediately after graduating in 1999, Jonathan started his career in government, serving as Chief of Staff for Alderman Terry Peterson and Alderman Latasha R. Thomas. He then moved into the Mayor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, as an Assistant to the Mayor, before being appointed Deputy Commissioner for the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development—the youngest person to hold that position at the time. Simultaneously, Jonathan was working toward getting his MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business.

In 2007, Jonathan transitioned into an active role as a board member, and later Chairman, of City of Chicago Zoning Board of Appeals, serving under both Mayor Daley and Mayor Emanuel, before being chosen for his current role as a Commissioner of the Chicago Board of Elections.

In addition to his government work, Jonathan was recently chosen to lead LINK Unlimited Scholars as CEO—tasked with taking the over 50-year-old institution into a new phase of innovation. Jonathan also serves as President of Kimbark Beverage Shoppe, his family’s 50-year old business in Hyde Park, and Director of Eat Drink and Be Events, a company responsible for the success of Chicago Bourbon and Barbeque Fest, Hyde Park Brew Fest, Lincoln Park Wine Fest, and Whiskey by the Water.

When he’s not serving as president, director, commissioner or CEO, Jonathan is a husband and father. He lives in Hyde Park with his wife Angela and their three boys, and remains deeply committed to the concept of proactive, strategic community and economic development in Chicago.

GO BANG! Magazine: Growing up, you took your education very serious and pursued learning with a vigor. What was it about your childhood that motivated you to focus on education so fiercely?

Jonathan T. Swain: My parents honestly. They didn’t have as many options growing up in the Jim Crow south. So, as they starting having kids, they wanted to make sure that all of us had every opportunity educationally. I had the good fortune of following in my sibling’s footsteps too, so that made it easier.

GO BANG! Magazine: The Swain family has successfully owned Kimbark Beverage Shoppe since 1974, and it’s currently under your leadership as President and Principal. What do you think is the secret to its success over the years and do you plan to expand to other neighborhood locations?

Jonathan T. Swain: I think the secret sauce is keeping the customer first in mind. Hyde Park is extremely diverse so there are a lot of customer segments. That leads to a diverse product mix. But that aside, we are a business that relies on repeat customers, so the better they feel when they leave the more often they will come back.

GO BANG! Magazine: You are quite a dynamic person. In addition to being an entrepreneur, you have an extensive career in several government divisions. Currently you’re the Commissioner of the City of Chicago’s Board of Elections. With this being a pivotal election year, with Trump up for re-election and Covid-19 wreaking havoc and fear, there’s going to be unprecedented interference with people getting their vote out in November. It’s being proposed that voting be done early and by mail. Trump is spewing that voting by mail can easily be hacked and tampered with, trying to scare the public. What can you say to assure citizens of Chicago that their votes will be counted and that the voting by mail system is secure and reliable?

Jonathan T. Swain: That’s very kind. The Chicago Board of Elections is a three member panel that oversees all of the elections in Chicago. It’s our responsibility to ensure that every eligible voter can register and that every registered voter can vote. Our current vote-by-mail system is very reliable, but we are introducing safeguards to ensure every vote is counted. That includes the creation of drop-off boxes to ensure we receive your vote on time and handwriting experts making sure signatures on the ballot match.

If you are interested in voting by mail, go to our website to apply. If you enter your email address you will be informed via email during every step of the process.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your involvement in the African American community with LINK Unlimited Scholars is commendable. Why do you feel the need to be involved with the community and how does LINK facilitate that need?

Jonathan T. Swain: My parent taught me that doing well is not mutually exclusive with doing good. Said a different way, to whom much is given, much is required. So, civic activity is really part of my DNA. Serving as the President and CEO of LINK Unlimited Scholars affords me the opportunity to develop and lead an organization that combines three of my passions, Chicago, the Black Community, and Education/Learning. I don’t think there is anywhere else that I could serve that allows me to have that sort of impact on all three passions at once

GO BANG! Magazine: Eat, Drink and Be Events is extensively involved with festivals in Hyde Park, Lincoln Park and other prominent neighborhoods. As the Director, what is the company’s primary mission and goal?

Jonathan T. Swain: When we started the company, we wanted to bring events we saw on the North side of Chicago to the South side. Why shouldn’t we be able to enjoy events in our own community? Of course at that time the Chosen Few Picnic and the African Fest were the only events on this side of town. So that’s why we started the Hyde Park Brew Fest. As it grew from 500 people in its first year to over 50K in recent years, the event developed into an economic engine for our community. Not only did the local businesses benefit, but we were creating an economy for our vendors, merchants, and other Black-owned companies. That doesn’t include the jobs we also created for the weekend.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a young, black, entrepreneurial male you are an inspiration and motivation to people, especially people of color. How does it feel to know that your success inspires others to succeed and what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Jonathan T. Swain: Thanks for the young part… I would give two categories of advice, one technical and one inspirational. From a technical point of view, every business is solving a problem or filling a need. If you can’t answer the problem you are solving or the need you are fulfilling then you need to rethink your business. Just because you are good at something or passionate about something doesn’t mean it solves a problem or fulfills a need. If you focus on those two things, you have a greater likelihood of success.

From the inspiration point of view, what you see is more important that what you feel. Entrepreneurship is like being on a ship in rocky seas. The only way to really stay steady and not get sick is to keep your eye on the horizon. Your legs may be wobbling and you may be listing left and right, but if you keep your eye on the horizon, you will be steady.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

Jonathan T. Swain: My wife encourages me to reframe challenges. The response to COVID is challenging to everyone, but it also has been a great time to hit the hard restart button. Every assumption has been turned upside down, so traditional rules don’t apply. This has been the time to do something new and that’s what I have been doing.

GO BANG! Magazine: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Jonathan T. Swain: George Floyd’s murder was a public lynching in my mind. The officer’s goal was to break the spirit of everyone watching, especially Black people. It didn’t work. There is a passage in the Bible that says for life to come forth a seed must first fall to the ground and die. Unfortunately, Mr. Floyd was that seed, but I am encouraged by all of the life that has sprung from it. People are organizing and acknowledging the racial inequity and injustice in America. Conversations that were buried have now risen to the surface. Cities are reevaluating their budgets to ensure they align with the priorities of the people. So a lot of life is arising from his tragic death.

GO BANG! Magazine: Most businesses had to temporarily close due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some businesses even went out of business. During the pandemic the George Floyd murder took place in Minnesota, which caused protests and riots across the world, including here in Chicago. Kimbark Beverage Shoppe was extensively affected by looting, which caused it to close and lose income. How did that make you feel, being a black owned business, as well as give your opinion on why you think there was rampant looting in general?

Jonathan T. Swain: The break-in at my store wasn’t tied to the protest. A crew of people used protest as a cover to commit crimes in our community. The people that hit my store weren’t the only ones. That activity drove a lot of the criminal destruction on the South side. With that said, I had my initial feelings about it, but the outpouring of support from friends, customers and community more than made up for the negative feeling we experienced.

As to the question of looting, I don’t agree with it, but I don’t judge it. In fact, I understand it. Looting was driven by the same racial and economic frustration as the crime and protests. Yes, people were taking material goods, but I also saw people taking groceries and diapers. So, I’d rather focus on eliminating the cause of the frustration than commenting on how people displayed their frustration in that case.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, as the father of three boys that have witnessed the brutality being committed by police officers on Black and Brown males. What advice can you give them and other young males to help them navigate safely through these volatile times?

Jonathan T. Swain: This is a tough one for me, my sons and Black people in general, not just males…and it’s not over. We will have to deal with this again during and after the verdict. With that said, I would tell them what I tell myself every morning. Find your hope, anchor it in something secure, and ground yourself in it. Once hope is gone, then the fight is over. So, hold on to hope!

FOLLOW JONATHAN t. SWAIN AND KIMBARK BEVERAGE SHOPPE ON ALL SOCIL MEDIA PLATFORMS

Music / Radio / Business: TERRY “DJ GLOVEMASTER SIZ” MOORE / DA DJZ ORIGINALZ

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Terry Moore, Sr. aka Glove Master Siz is a DJ from the Southside of Chicago. He started his DJ career in the early 1980’s. He’s a self-taught DJ who started by DJ’ing parties and weddings across the Chicago area. Soon after, he started teaching DJ’s in the area the skills he knew. In the mid 1980’s, he started learning how to produce music. He has produced Hip Hop and R&B tracks for local artists in the Chicago area.

Glovemaster is also an entrepreneur and is co-founder of DA 4 DEEP DJZ and is a member of DA DJZ ORIGINALZ with his partner DJ Major. Together, they do an internet radio show spinning House music. Even though DJ Major isn’t always available to join Glovemaster on out-of-state gigs, DA DJZ ORIGINALZ name has gained more popularity and recognition.

In 2012, “Biltmor’s Who’s Who” awarded Terry Moore, Sr. aka Glovemaster Siz a certificate acknowledging Terry as an individual qualified for inclusion in the 2012 edition of the “Biltmore Who’s Who Registry of Executives and Professionals.”

GO BANG! Magazine: Where did you grow up and spend your childhood?

Glovemaster Siz: GLOVE MASTER IZ A DJ FROM THE SOUTH SIDE OF CHICAGO.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you first become interested in being a DJ?

Glovemaster Siz: I STARTED MY DJ CAREER IN THE EARLY 80’S. I FIRST GOT INTO DJ’IN BECUASE I ALWAYZ LOVED MUSIC. IT IS MY PASSION!

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you know that you wanted to pursue DJ’ing as a profession?

Glovemaster Siz: I AM A SELF-TAUGHT DJ AND I STARTED DOING BASEMENT PARTIES AND WEDDING’S ACROSS THE CHICAGO AREA, WHICH THEN LEAD UP TO BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please name the DJs that inspire or motivate you.

Glovemaster Siz: THERE WASN’T ANY DJZ THAT MOTIVATED ME. I HEARD THIS GUY PLAYIN RECORDS AND I SAID TO MYSELF, “I CAN DO THAT!”

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re also a music producer. Are you working on any new Hip Hop or R&B tracks and have you produced any House tracks?

Glovemaster Siz: I’M NOT WORKIN ON ANY HIP HOP OR R&B RITE NOW, BUT I’M WORKIN ON SOME HOUZE TRAXXS.

GO BANG! Magazine: As an entrepreneur, you co-founded DA 4 DEEP DJZ. Please tell our readers about the DJ group.

Glovemaster Siz: DJ MAJOR AND MYSELF WANTED TO PUT TOGETHER A SMALL GROUP OF DJZ. BUT IT DIDNT WORK OUT WIT ME. I CAN’T STAND BICKERIN N A CREW AND THATZ WAT IT WAZ. SO, I LEFT AFTER ONE YEAR. NOTHIN AGAINST DA CREW, BUT NOT MY THING.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re a member of DA DJZ ORIGINALZ DJ group that has an internet radio show. Describe the show and what the listeners can expect, when they tune in.

Glovemaster Siz: I STARTED DOIN INTERNET RADIO WHEN THIS DJ TOLD ME THAT A GUY WAS CHECKIN ME OUT ON FACEBOOK. I WAS DOIN A LIVE SHOW. HE SAID HE COULD TAP INTO MY LIVE FEED, WHILE I WAZ DOIN MY SHOW, AND HE COULD BROADCAST IT ON HIS RADIO STATION. NOW, DJ MAJOR AND MYSELF, DA DJZ ORIGINALZ R DOIN WJZD RADIO DETROIT. ITZ OWN BY DONALD POOLE
FIRST OFF, I’M A WELL ROUNDED DJ. I PLAY CLUBS AND “HOLE IN THE WALL” PLACES. SO I KNOW HOW TO PLAY IT ALL. I JUZ PREFER HOUZE CAUSE THATZ WHERE MY MONEY CAME FROM. DONT GET IT WRONG, I’M A “BEAT BOY” IN HEART, BUT MY MONEY CAME FROM HOUSE MUSIC.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a House DJ you have mentored and trained several DJ’s, including one that our readers may be familiar with, DJ Angi Stone. How did you two meet and how did you become her DJ trainer? Also, please inform our readers… how is she doing?

Glovemaster Siz: I STARTED TEACHING DJ’S IN THE AREA AND THAT’S THE WAY I MET ANJI STONE. SHE WAZ PART OF MY BREAKDANCE CREW. SHW WAZ DA ONLY FEMALE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD THAT WAZ POPPIN AND BREAKIN AT THAT TIME.

SHE SAW ME SPINNIN AND ASKED ME TO TEACH HER. SO, I TAUGHT HER THE INZ AND OUTZ OF DJ’IN, LEARNIN HOW TO BREAK DOWN AND HOOK UP EQUIPMENT, AND HOW TO CLEAN THE NEEDLES ON THE TURNTABLE…EVERYTHING. SHE WAS ONLY 14 YRS. OLD WHEN I STARTED TEACHING HER. SHE WAS LIKE MY BABY SISTER, MY BEST FRIEND, AND STUDENT. .

ANJI STONE RECENTLY FELL ILL EARLIER THIS YEAR. BUT SHE’S DOING BETTER AND SHE WILL BE BACK SOON.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it personally?

Glovemaster Siz: I DEALIN WIT THIS 1 DAY AT A TIME. IT MESSED UP A LOT OF MY PLANS AND EVENTS THIS YEAR, SO IT HIT ME PRETTY HARD.

GO BANG! Magazine: Lastly, on May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Glovemaster Siz: WELL THIS IS NOTHIN NEW FOR A BLACK MAN TO B KILLED BY WHITE COPS. THEY DO IT CAUSE THEY KNOW THEY CAN GET AWAY WITH IT. ITZ ALWAYZ BEEN WRONG FOR A COP, ANY WHITE COP, TO A BLACK MAN.
LOOK IF WE DON’T CARE ABOUT OUR OWN LIFE, WHY SHOULD THEY? WE HAVE TO FIRST CARE ABOUT US, BEFORE ANYONE CAN CARE FOR US.

GO BANG! Magazine: Terry, I just wanted to publicly thank you for helping me out when I decided to return to DJ’ing again, a few years ago. Without me asking you, you gifted me with a CD storage case, which included about 50 CDs with ALL of the latest House cuts on them. You provided me with a House music “starter kit.” I will forever be thankful and grateful and will never forget that gesture of friendship. THANK YOU BRO!

Glovemaster Siz: NO PROBLEM MONEY. I’M GLAD DAT WE MET. ITZ BEEN TRULY A BLESSIN!

You can listen to the Glovemaster Siz daily mix on Facebook at 12 noon (CST) daily.

Follow GLOVEMASTER SIZ on Facebook @Sizzler GloveMaster Siz Lee

Follow DA DJZ ORIGINALZ on Mixcloud @DJZORIGINALZ1 and on Facebook @DA DJZ ORIGINALZ

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business: A.J. JONES / A.J. PHOTOGRAPHY

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

A.J. started photography at an early age, encouraged by his mother who was always the photographer for the family. While in high school, he studied photography and learned how to do it manually. Then a few years later, he took Photography courses at Robert Morris College. He got creative with it and made photography his new hobby.

After graduating, A.J. entered the media field and covered former President Barack Obama’s last speech, as part of the media team. This was one of his biggest accomplishments, thus far. He also took beautiful images of the city of Chicago and made it into art.

He’s also an entrepreneur, being the owner of A.J. Photography. The company’s mission is creating special images that can be marketed to any agency in the world. They create artistic black & white or color images. Every shot at A.J. Photography is meant to capture a unique and high quality image.

A.J. also creates websites. He needed a place to showcase his photographic works, so he created a site and posted all of his great photography images. In addition to that site, he has an online magazine site, Still from the Soul magazine (SFS Magazine). SFS is a magazine for photography, art, as well as interviews with people that you may or may not be familiar with. The magazine originated as a college project, but wound up as a new career.

But that’s not all that A.J. does. He’s also a painter and painted a mural in the basement of what was formally known as Robert Morris, but is currently known as Roosevelt University.

A.J. has received an acknowledgement award for all of his hard work and artistic shoots, and has been recognized as one of the best media photographers in Chicago.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about photography that interests you?

AJ Jones: I like the imagery, the way the person looks, and the reactions that I get when the images develop.

GO BANG! Magazine: When selecting a subject to shoot, what are you specifically looking for?

AJ Jones: The person must be coachable, very attentive and look good. They must also have a great smile and be willing to work hard because you always want a great result.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is your favorite type of photograph to take and why?

AJ Jones: I like black and white best because it gives you the real essence and texture of the subject. That’s what you are looking for in photographs. Color photos sometime don’t give you everything you are looking for, as a photographer. I want the raw and the essence of my subject.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get the opportunity to become part of the media team covering Barack Obama and how did that experience make you feel?

AJ Jones: I reached out to the White House and requested to be part of the media team that was covering Obama’s last speech. The experience was something that I will never forget in this lifetime. I got a chance to meet and see all of the newscasters and stars from around the world.

When I shot the images, it didn’t look like my images came out as good as they did. But, when I dropped them on the computer the images came out beautiful. I was so excited that I wanted to print each and every one of them, but I had decided to put them into a collage and print them.

GO BANG! Magazine: Have there been any other important times in history, since Barack Obama, that you were able to capture incredible images? If so, please describe those times.

AJ Jones: Some of my photographic highlights include when Harold Washington got elected as the first Black Mayor of Chicago, the Taste of Chicago festivals, the Chicago Gospel Festivals, and Chicago radio station WVON’s concert last year. I got the opportunity to photograph several stars.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your self-published online magazine, Still from the Soul, showcases creative people. How do you choose which individuals to showcase and to interview?

AJ Jones: Well, I look for people who most people don’t really know and don’t know too much about, like Pierre A. Evans. We will be interviewing him soon for the magazine. He is a phenomenal person on paper, but when you see the person in action, it’s a totally different story. He is a writer, dancer, interviewer, author and entrepreneur who’s interviewed a lot of celebrities including me, because I’m on my way to Stardom!

GO BANG! Magazine: Thank you AJ!

GO BANG! Magazine: When did you discover that you had a talent for painting and do you plan to pursue that talent more in the near future?

AJ Jones: Well here is the deal with painting. In college we had an assignment to create a painting that POPPED! So me and my partner at the time put something together. We came up with the creation of a lifetime. The late Dr. Margaret Burroughs (co-founded the Ebony Museum of Chicago, now the DuSable Museum of African American History) told us that she loved the painting and rewarded me with an interview for my magazine, before she passed away some years ago. I was so honored to have the privilege to interview her and it was great. I still have that interview to this day. My painting is in the Roosevelt University Building.

GO BANG! Magazine: What can our readers expect from you in the upcoming years?

AJ Jones: They can expect more beautiful shoots and some of the best articles this side of town (as my granddaddy used to say). If I can’t do my best, I should quit.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it?

AJ Jones: It’s been hard because I couldn’t go out physically and get an interview with people or do any photoshoots. It has stopped a lot of things, but it’s actually given me time to catch up on things pertaining to the magazine and try to do a photoshoot with my designer.

GO BANG! Magazine: Lastly, on May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

AJ Jones: I believe that reform is needed and more honest cops really need to step up to the corrupt cops. But in my opinion, the massacre that swept through this nation was needed to let White America know that Black people are united!

AJ Photography website: https://ajphoto787.wixsite.com/ajphoto7
Still From The Soul Magazine website: https://sfsmagaj.wixsite.com/sfsmag1?fbclid=IwAR2QR890mzkPcD1dAKe6UByJQcUeVx4cjnaANa1OYnRYooG_WlUSt7FzWQA
Facebook @AJPhotography7
Email: ajphotography787@gmail.com OR sfsmagaj@gmail.com

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business: OTIS RICHARDSON / LavenderPop Greeting Cards

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Otis Richardson is a fine artist and illustrator residing in Chicago. Born in South Carolina, he is a graduate of South Carolina State University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Art Education. On the graduate level, he studied at Northern Illinois University, obtaining a Master of Fine Arts in Media Studies.

Otis’s freelance work as an illustrator has appeared in national and local publications, books, and health organizations. These include Sophisticate Black Hair Care magazine, Out And Proud In Chicago, BlackLines, Windy City Times, Test Positive Aware Network, and Chicago Department of Public Health. His fine art has been exhibited in shows sponsored by Stone Art Supply, The ETA Theater, Echoes of Chicago, Hyde Park Art Center, Stony Island Arts Bank, Arts Incubator, Prairie Avenue Gallery, UBUNTU Center of Chicago, and Black Creativity sponsored by the Museum of Science and Industry.

After co-creating BlackPop Greeting Cards in 1999, with former business partner Hana Anderson, Otis launched Lavenderpop Greeting Cards in 2004. Lavenderpop cards are currently carried in Whole Foods’ Englewood location and are being rolled out in 11 JEWEL/OSCO stores. Full list coming soon!

Otis is a longtime supporter of creative arts and social justice activities. He is a current member of the Soka Gakkai International Buddhists and ADOS, American Descendants of Slavery, Chicago chapter.

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first know that you had talent as an artist?

Otis Richardson: Even as a small child, I had a natural talent for drawing and painting. As long as I can remember, I drew pictures and painted with watercolors and acrylics. My parents and friends of the family noticed this and always gifted me with art supplies.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your artwork has appeared in numerous publications. How would describe your style to our readers who may not be familiar with your art?

Otis Richardson: I think my style is very realistic with a focus on faces. When I’m creating images of Black people, I play close attention to representing our different skin tones, hair textures: natural, fades, braids, locs, etc. I think people appreciate the details.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you make the transition from being an illustrator to becoming a greeting card creator?

Otis Richardson: I really wanted an outlet for my illustrations. Over the years, I’ve done some freelance work, but it wasn’t consistent. For a long time I’ve done handmade cards for friends, but never really thought about doing it as a business. The more I saw other cards in different retail stores, I said to myself that I can do that and add more diverse images.

GO BANG! Magazine: Prior to launching LavenderPop Greeting Cards, which is your own business, you were co-creator of BlackPop Greeting Cards with Hana Anderson. What did you learn from that business that prepared you to start your own and how did you know it was time to go solo?

Otis Richardson: Hana and I worked well together. She did the writing and I did the art, but we both collaborated on the ideas for the cards. We started off small by approaching local Black bookstores then we expanded by getting into select Walgreen stores. The process of becoming a retail vendor, creating invoices, and servicing so many stores really prepared me for getting into Jewel-Osco. Having to supply to so many stores was a lot of work for two people. We decided to close down BlackPop and focus on other creative endeavors. I enjoyed the process of creating cards and coming up with cool designs so I decided to start again and do the art as well as the writing myself.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your greeting card company is named LavenderPop, quite a unique name. Is there any meaning behind the name or any reason why you chose that name for your business?

Otis Richardson: Well, lavender is my favorite color. It’s also a color of royalty. I kept the POP part of the name because it relates to POP CULTURE. I’m very influenced by pop culture in my designs, so that’s what the name represents.

GO BANG! Magazine: LavenderPop Greeting Cards are a bold collection offering a new option for those looking for eye catching Black greeting cards. Why did you feel the need to launch a greeting card business?

Otis Richardson: To be very honest with you, I didn’t launch the line to make money. I’m a lot better now paying attention to the business side of things like marketing and production cost. But I started the cards because I felt like I could add some diversity to the stationery industry. A couple major companies have Black greeting cards that have been around for years. I thought it was time to put something new on the market, cards with fresher designs and attitude.

GO BANG! Magazine: LavenderPop has partnered with and is now carried in many Chicagoland area Jewel-Osco stores. It becomes the first independent Black-owned card line to be carried in the 121 year history of the popular grocery store chain. Congratulations! Please describe how this business partnership occurred and how it feels to be a trailblazer for minority business owners looking to get their businesses in major commercial stores.

Otis Richardson: This partnership happened by never giving up, which is a concept I embrace in my Nichiren Buddhist practice. You create the script that is your life. I’ve had other grocery stores say no, or at one point they were open to a deal, but then it didn’t happen. If I had stopped because of all the no’s, I would not be here with this accomplishment. Actually, getting a no from one store, gave me the motivation to approach Jewel. I’m like “your store ain’t all that, so I’m gonna go over here.” LOL.

The Jewel deal did not happen overnight. When you are dealing with a major commercial store, you have the find the category manager for your product. Once I did that, Jewel had to decide if my cards could even be sold there because of prior relationship with American Greetings. Often times, certain companies will have a monopoly that prevents other products from competing.

After some research, Jewel decided my cards could be sold. I think it took a while because apparently no one had asked them before, which is why I turned out to be the first. Once I got the ok, then I had to get business insurance, and proper UPC codes. The Jewel executives were very helpful in getting me through that process. I’m fortunate to have my day job to cover the business expenses. Entrepreneurs should make sure they have savings, investors or family that can help you fund your business until it reaches a point where you can turn a profit.

I would love to do this full-time and the response from the shoppers has been awesome. I’ve only done promotion on Facebook and people have congratulated me, purchased cards at the stores or ordered them online because they really believed in my product.

GO BANG! Magazine: You are well-educated, creative, a track and field athlete, and heavily involved in social justice activities. With all that you do, how do you find the time to, and more importantly, explain to our readers what type of activities you’ve participated in and why you feel the need to be socially active?

Otis Richardson: I feel I can do better with time management. I don’t think I’m busier than anyone else. I don’t have kids, so I’m so impressed with people who juggle their business and raise a family too. I think it’s true you make time for the things that are important.

Several years ago, I trained six months for the Chicago Marathon. Not sure I have that kind of time now, but you have to create your priorities. My Buddhist practice with Soka Gakkai International (SGI) is important in my spiritual growth. I’m also a part of ADOS American Descendants of Slavery which is the leading movement fighting for Reparations. There are ADOS chapters all over the country and a very active ADOS Chicago chapter here.

One of the sharpest women on the internet is Yvette Carnell of BreakingBrown.com. She often says “There is no Black business without Black politics.” Economics for the Black community is tied into our understanding of politics and what we are owed by the government and the country our ancestors built. I want to offer what I can because our survival as Black people depends on us not being taken advantage of by political leaders…and I’m including the Black ones who care more about their position than bringing policies to Black people who help put them in office. Although I’m disappointed by our so-called leaders, the bottom line is I have to look at myself and see what part I’m playing in making thing better.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it?

Otis Richardson: I’m fortunate I’m able to work from home. That’s not a reality for many of us. Even being partially furloughed, I’m using my time to get stuff done that I’ve put off. All of the Buddhist gatherings are happening on Zoom. We also have a campaign to reach out to members on the phone. This is what we call member care. It’s difficult not being able to see people face to face, but it’s important to keep in touch with others and by doing so, you keep yourself encouraged.

GO BANG! Magazine: Lastly, on May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Otis Richardson: Great question!
I think police reform has its place, but I have to go back to Reparations. Antonio Moore is an attorney and expert in wealth inequality. He along with Yvette Carnell came up with the identity ADOS. He’s done YouTube shows about the lack of economic support in Minneapolis for Black people that led to someone like George Floyd being disrespected racially, but also being unemployed and having Covid19 when he was killed. The lack of wealth for Black America is the reason we are susceptible to being taken advantage of by organizations like the police or not having health care or our own businesses in our communities.

These initiatives sound good like police reform, or investing in jobs and education. But notice when the talk is about investment, it’s usually for ‘people of color.” People assume POC means Black people, but that money could go to everybody except Black Americans if we are not specific. You can’t fund universal programs for everyone, when you have not made us a priority after 400 years.

The time for Reparations is now and I want to be a part of it. Reparations is not just a single check, but let’s be clear, it does include direct financial payments for people whose ancestors endured slavery. Reparations is multigenerational. It’s also about ownership. My goal is for Lavenderpop Greeting Cards to be a part of that ownership movement and to create images that affirm our style, strength and beauty.

YOU CAN FOLLOW OTIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE WEB:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lavenderpop-Greeting-Cards-297117733332
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LavenderpopCard
Instagram: @lavenderpop

Websites: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LavenderpopCards & http://lavenderpop.com/

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business: SPENCER BIBBS & CHICAGO JAZZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Posted on August 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Spencer Bibbs is a lifelong Chicago resident and a freelance photographer who lives on the south side of Chicago. He went to Mount Carmel high school and then to Lewis University in Romeoville, IL, where he studied Computer Science and Philosophy.

He started his professional career as a grammar school Assistant Teacher on the south side of Chicago. He then transitioned and became as Social Worker, working with senior citizens, for about 10 years. There, he began doing a lot of digital media projects with the seniors and discovered his love for digital art and photography.

After leaving Social Services, he went back to teaching and began to pursue a career in photography. Around 10 years ago, he became the official photographer for the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce. Shortly after, he started working with the Hyde Park Herald. Through these organizations, he has documented his hometown neighborhood of Hyde Park for the past 10 years.

He discovered a love for “live music” photography a few years back and has recently created a social media outlet called “Chicago Jazz Photography” where he promotes jazz and shows his photo images.

GO BANG! Magazine: You just happen to stumble upon your love of photography through your work with senior citizens. What was it about photography that motivated you to pursue it professionally?

Spencer Bibbs: I was a case manager for 10 years prior to discovering photography. I loved my residents but realized that the job was not for me. I was making $45,000/yr. but I was always on pins and needles. I knew that my next job was going to be something that I loved. Money would not be a driving factor, if I could live and survive on what I was making.

As a photographer and artist, I fell in love with capturing images and liking the images that I captured. It makes you want to do more. When I left Case Management, I figured that was the best time to pursue my passion. I got lucky and got in as the volunteer photographer for the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce and a freelancer for the Hyde Park Herald. These were two driving forces.

GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years, you have worked with some prominent Hyde Park organizations. What is it in particular that you like most about the Hyde Park neighborhood?

Spencer Bibbs: It is a little strange to answer because I am a lifelong Hyde Parker. Working with various Hyde Park organizations has allowed me to become more connected to my neighborhood. There are many things that I love about this neighborhood.

This community has always been known as a place where everybody is welcomed, and it gives a lot to the people. Prior to COVID 19, there were always things to do and things to get involved in. It is a highly organized and highly active community.

GO BANG! Magazine: For our readers that may be unfamiliar with digital art, would you please describe what it is and why you’re so interested in it?

Spencer Bibbs: Photography for me is about perspective and creation. A photo is never going to be exactly what the photographer saw. When photographers were using film, different types of film produced different types of images based off what the photographer was trying to do. The photographer would then take that image and manipulate the film so that the image came out the way that the photographer wanted.

Rather than use film, digital photographers use digital cameras. The images that photographers capture are stored as files on disks. I use my computer to manipulate the images that I capture. As a newspaper photographer, my images cannot be manipulated. They must be as close to the actual scene as possible.

The great thing about digital photography is that you can do whatever you want with your images. You have a lot more tools now than film photographers did. Using your computer and special software, you can do whatever you want with your images. You can make day turn to night. You can make a cloudy day look like a sunny day, etc.

GO BANG! Magazine: “Live music” photography sounds like an interesting genre of photography. It combines music with photography. How did you get involved and can you discuss in detail your social media outlet for those photos?

Spencer Bibbs: I stumbled into live music photography. As a neighborhood newspaper photographer, I began taking neighborhood live music assignments. Hyde Park has had many great live music events over the past 10 years. I still remember my first big live music event. The Family Stone (minus Sly) was playing at one of our neighborhood events years ago. I was on stage photographing them as they were playing in the rain and it was AWESOME! To be a music photographer, you must love music and taking pictures. When both come together, it is meditative. You go into a zone.

I love jazz music and have been finding every chance that I get to photograph live jazz music. Since jazz is so improvisational, it gives me the ability to improvise and create art with my images. I like to let the music take me into a creative place and just see what happens.

I created my own social media outlet called Chicago Jazz Photography where I display my work and support the music. I am on Facebook and Instagram.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is your favorite type of photograph to take and why?

Spencer Bibbs: I love finding images versus capturing moments. I am not here to document things.

GO BANG! Magazine: Growing up in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, and documenting it photographically, must have been a unique experience. Hyde Park is a Southside neighborhood that has a unique demographic make-up of all racial, social, sexual and economic backgrounds. It has changed over the years as well. Do you feel that the change has been for the better or for the worse and why?

Spencer Bibbs: My fear is that there will be a day that I cannot afford to live here. It is not easy to be low-income and live in Hyde Park. I think that was different 30 to 40 years ago. I blame the University of Chicago for that.

GO BANG! Magazine: What can our readers expect from you in the upcoming years?

Spencer Bibbs: I am going to keep creating and moving forward.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it?

Spencer Bibbs: As a music photographer, it has been tough. There has not been much live music since the shutdown. For a while, I was taking pictures of trees in parks and things of that nature but, that gets old after a while.

I have added a few new skills since the pandemic hit. I have also beefed up my contacts on social media so that when things do open back up, I will have a lot more eyes on what I am doing.

You can follow Spencer Bibbs on Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/spencer.bibbs https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoJazzPhotography https://www.facebook.com/spencerbibbsphotography
Website: www.spbdigitalconcepts.photoshelter.com

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram

Business/Music: FREDERICK DUNSON / FRANKIE KNUCKLES FOUNDATION

Posted on July 1, 2020 by GO BANG MAG

Photo credit: Ernest Collins

Serving others and giving back to his community has always been important to Frederick Dunson. Born on Chicago’s west side, he attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help Grammar School, St. Ignatius College Prep and Columbia College where he majored in Arts & Entertainment Management & Public Relations. He was employed at the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County for nearly 34 years where he worked his way from File Clerk to Chief Deputy Clerk of the Juvenile Justice Division. He received numerous commendations and acknowledgements for his public service and retired in December of 2014.

Since then he has continued his service work as Founder, President & Executive Director of the Frankie Knuckles Foundation – NFP, formed to honor famed Grammy Award winner Frankie Knuckles, Frederick’s best friend and business partner to continue Frankie’s legacy through charitable endeavors.

Dunson and Knuckles who were partners of their production company D/E Entertainment held some of the most highly anticipated and attended events for 13 years at some of the most renown and venerable venues here in the city of Chicago!

Founded in December 2014, the Frankie Knuckles Foundation – NFP is a not for profit educational, and cultural organization dedicated to the advancement of Frankie Knuckles’ mission as the global ambassador of House music through media, conservation and public events continuing and supporting the causes he advocated. The FKF is a recognized 501c3 and focused on these initiatives: music in schools, LGBTQ youth homelessness, AIDS research / prevention & diabetes research / education.

Frederick currently serves on the Black Perspective Committee of the Chicago International Film Festival, the Board of the Empowerment Center for Better Living where he attends and is a member as well as a member of the Non for Profit Committee of the West Loop Community Organization and recently served on its Board of Directors.

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first become aware of and get involved in the club scene of the Disco days, which predates House.

Frederick Dunson: I became aware of the club scene during my high school years, so we’re talking about ’75. There was a group of friends who were slightly older and they would let me tag along with them and they would get me in the bars/clubs. So, this was during the disco era…blinking lights, mirror balls and lighted dance floors…LOL! I got involved once I started working at the Warehouse, so that would have been ’76 – ’77.

GO BANG! Magazine: I understand that DJ Frankie Knuckles was your best friend. How did you and Frankie first meet and what was it about him that clicked and made you guys become homies?

Frederick Dunson: Frankie was more than just my best friend he was my brother. When you’ve been friends as long as we were (38 years) there’s no other way to describe it. My family considered him to be a part of our family as well. We met through a friend (Kurt Robinson) who introduced us at the Bowery one night and we just clicked. We chatted during the week. He would come by our house for dinner. Kurt and I started helping him out addressing invites for the weekly parties and the next thing I knew (as mentioned) was that I started working at the Warehouse.

Frankie was such an open, warm and caring person that his sensibilities about life and what makes a great party drew us close. And the fact that he wanted to see what Chicago had to offer made us gel, plus we shared a love of music and he introduced me to the music that I came to love…House!

GO BANG! Magazine: Not only were you guys best friends, but you also went into business together being business partners in a production company, D/E Entertainment. Can you name a few of the most memorable events that D/E Entertainment produced?

Frederick Dunson: D/E came out of Frankie coming to Chicago and playing for different promoters…after a gig one night at the Rivera where the management and staff were so nasty to the LQBTQIA+ attendees and pretty much everyone who was there, that at the end of the evening he told me that the only way that he’d come and play again was that “it would have to be an event we produced”. So we formed D/E and started producing two annual events a year – 4th of July & Thanksgiving – at a few of Chicago’s hottest venues.

A few of our most memorable events included Adeva performing at Crobar, Jocelyn Brown at the House of Blues, a party that included a Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor and Madonna impersonators, and the evening Cristina Aguilera dropped in to party!

GO BANG! Magazine: Individually, you are quite a dynamic person. You had an extensive career in the Cook County Circuit Court system, which you retired from in 2014. But, since then, you’ve kept busy being one of the founders of the Frankie Knuckles Foundation – NFP. The foundation focuses on specific initiatives: music in schools, LGBTQ youth homelessness, AIDS research / prevention and diabetes research / education. I understand that these were all issues that Frankie held dear to his heart. Why did you think it was important for the Frankie Knuckles Foundation (FKF) to exist?

Frederick Dunson: FKF was the brainchild of Randy Crumpton (the late entertainment attorney) who represented Frankie. After Frankie’s untimely passing, there were events and fundraisers that was using his name and we (his family and friends) didn’t know where the funds were going. So, Randy’s thought was that a foundation in Frankie’s honor could do the same thing for causes he advocated, help people out, plus have an educational and conservation component regarding House music, as well as continue his legacy and oversee his brand.

It’s amazing! Even though he’s not with us, he and his music continue to touch the lives of many. There’s always an email or a post on one of our socials (media sites) that describes that very thing and to me that validates why it was so important to establish FKF!

GO BANG! Magazine: The fact that the FNF calls the south side of Chicago its home and has a physical location at the Stony Island Arts Bank, 6760 S. Stony Island Avenue, is a testament to the fact that south siders made up a great part of the House music family and culture. What factors went into choosing the location for the foundation?

Frederick Dunson: I know it seems like it, but our office is located in the West Loop. Frankie’s vinyl catalogue is housed at the Stony Island Arts Bank, as a result of a conversation that Randy arranged between me and friend to FKF – Theaster Gates. The collection could have been sent to a number of other cities, but it was Frankie’s wishes to keep his collection in Chicago. We were in discussion with Columbia College’s Center for Black Music Research to house it there but after spending time and speaking with Theaster about our (FKF & Rebuild) vision for the collection, it made all the sense in the world to house it there…besides Theaster loves House music !

There have been a number of FKF and Rebuild events produced there, as well as revolving around the collection. And yes the response to it being housed there is indeed a testimony to the fact that south siders have definitely made a contribution to the fabric of the House music culture here in Chicago…but there are also a number of visitors from overseas that drop in to take a look at the collection or attend events.

GO BANG! Magazine: The FKF Board of Directors includes an array of individuals from different backgrounds including you, Alan King (Chosen Few DJs), Maurice “Judd” Chaylor, David Morales (Def Mix Productions), Robin Robinson (Journalist), Eric Kupper (Hysteria Productions) and Ken Dunkin (Politician) to name a few. How does this variety of individuals enhance the Board?

Frederick Dunson: A few of the names mentioned were Founding members and have now moved on. I like to think that we are a great representation of what House music looks like. It was important to me that each person that belongs to the Foundation had some sort of relationship with him, knew him and could bring their respective gifts to assist in our efforts to bring visibility and accomplish some of the goals of the organization.

GO BANG! Magazine: Besides being an integral part in the history and legacy of the House music culture, what are some of your other interests?

Frederick Dunson: You’re too kind…thank you for such kind words…

Some of my other interests…hmmm…bingeing on TV. I’m unapologetically a television junkie; travel, music, art and cooking. I consider myself a pretty good cook. Frankie and I always wanted to open a restaurant, and of course an interesting and great conversation.

GO BANG! Magazine: After we get through this COVID-19 pandemic, are there any events, panels, or productions coming up at the Frankie Knuckles Foundation that you can share with our readers?

Frederick Dunson: Hopefully things will get back to what seems like our “new” normal and we’ll be able to gather and celebrate each other and life, but in the meantime we’re tentatively planning a global virtual celebration observance of Frankie Knuckles Day on August 25th.

GO BANG! Magazine: The COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off guard. How are you dealing with it?

Frederick Dunson: Yes it has! Unfortunately, our leadership in Washington didn’t pay attention to all of the red flags that were sent and we as a country could have responded sooner! I’d like to think that I’m dealing with it fairly well by being vigilant and following the guidelines prescribed by Governor Pritzker and Mayor Lightfoot, by being compliant and staying out of harm’s way, plus a positive attitude goes a long way (smile).

GO BANG! Magazine: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down, begging for his life and repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe.” This incident has caused civil unrest and massive protests across the world. How do you feel about this unfortunate situation and call for police reform due to the horrible treatment of minorities by the police?

Frederick Dunson: It is indeed a very unfortunate situation…seeing Mr. Floyd lose his life because of the hatred instilled into one person who abused his power was so horrendous, but seeing Chauvin’s partners stand there and do nothing was even more offensive!

Since a large amount of my professional background was working in the court system, I respect the criminal legal system, when it works like it is meant to do. It’s when those involved in the system don’t follow the law and treat people with the kindness and dignity we’re all entitled to under our Constitution that it then goes awry and liberties get abused. We have a right to be angry and ask for change, but not destructive to our own neighborhoods and destroy the services and business that we so desperately need in our communities to keep us alive. And yes, there certainly must be police reform to bring about a change nationwide. It’s a must that it comes sooner than later!

You can contact Frederick Dunson at: fdunson@thefkfoundation.org. For individuals seeking more information or to learn about FKF, you can visit the website at: http://thefkfoundation.org and follow on FB and Instagram.

Dec

Podcast courtesy of Entrepreneurial Enclave Donald Crossley is a name synonymous with the birth of house music. As one of the founders of the iconic Warehouse nightclub in Chicago, he played a pivotal role in shaping Chicago’s vibrant dance music scene and fostering the birth of House music and dance culture worldwide. Donald Crossley, […]

Dec

Used by permission: Entrepreneurial Enclave SUBSCRIBE The interview with DJ Wayne Williams, founder of the renowned Chosen Few Djs House Music Festival, the longest-running house music festival worldwide, was captivating, leading to its early release on this page. Our in-depth conversation explores house music extensively. This was our first joint effort. I hope you enjoy […]

Nov

Hey, Go Bang Fam! The crisp autumn air is blowing through the streets of Chicago, and with it comes the warm glow of Thanksgiving! It’s a time for family, for feasting (let’s be real, mostly feasting!), and for reflecting on all the things we’re grateful for. And at the top of that list, we have […]

Nov

YouTube video courtesy of: The Entrepreneurial Enclave SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@theentrepreneurialenclave6392 Please check out this interview by Kevin Wortham for his YouTube podcast ENTREPRENEURIAL ENCLAVE.LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R1gScFcPz4 I am honor to be interviewed, each and every time I am approached and a request is made. THANK YOU!!!! BIOPublisher, Journalist, Author, DJ, Dancer Pierre Andre’ Evans has taken the publishing, literary and […]

Aug

Photo courtesy of: https://www.facebook.com/jordonez1234 Tickets $27 – $100: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/body-house-dance-summit-2024-tickets-934277367757?aff=ebdsoporgprofile 4:00 PM – 8:45 PM August 29th: Workshops @ Steadfast Dance Center Date: Thursday, August 29th Time: 4PM – 8:45 PM Location: Steadfast Dance Center, 1860 S. Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL Instructors & Class Schedule: 4:00PM Jay-J(Jus.be) , 5:11PM Trish (Devine Instant), 6:22PM Brand1 (Circle […]

Aug

Photos courtesy of Singles Films and Music Entertainment STREAMS EVERYWHERE ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2024 In the past 5 years, writer, director, and producer Billy Ray Valentine has entertained us with his visions. With streaming phenomenons such as “LIL CEASAR“, “ROSELAND“, “MAGIC“, “THE WALK OF RUFUS 1&2“, and “A MASQUERADE TRAPP“, Mr. Valentine now brings […]

Jun

Photo credit: Zmny Records Ozie Nzeribe who portrayed Royale Hughes in seasons 1 and 2 of the Apple TV+ series ‘Swagger’ is set to star in the Tubi thriller mystery ‘Rock The Boat 2, a project by Footage Films with Chris Stokes as director and Marques Houston as producer. Nzeribe will play Durell, a […]

Jun

Photo credits: Eric Logan / Videos credits: YouTube Vito Tisdale, also known as “Big V” or “Vito Banga,” is a former member and front man of the multiplatinum hip-hop group Nappy Roots. Big V has been credited as the architect of several of the group’s biggest hits including “Po Folks” and “AwNaw”. Hip Hop […]

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