Category: Music

Music: JENIQUA

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Jeniqua grew up expressing herself through poetry, writing songs and filling the home with singing… her own tunes and those of her favorite’s, Whitney, Stevie Wonder, Kirk Franklin, Ce Ce and Be Be Winans etc.

She is equally comfortable with R&B, soul, jazz fusion, Gospel & dance and appeals to a wide demographic. Her voice has been often referred to as angelic. Her music oozes soul, heartfelt lyrics and an exceptional delivery of infectious melodies, backing vocals and vocal arrangements, all created and mastered by Jeniqua herself.

Some of her credits include: semi-finalist for R&B / Hip Hop category in the ISC (International Songwriting competition), semi-finalist in the Christian and Vocal Performance categories of the Unsigned Only Music Competition, nomination for a Shorty Award, NY for ‘Best Singer’ on social media and ‘Best Female Vocalist’ nomination at the 32nd Chicago Music Awards. Jeniqua has also had songs on the top of various music and radio charts in Australia and abroad.
“Jeniqua’s voice is an unmistakably unique and divine gift. Her voice, stage presence, raw talent and work ethic will have a huge impact on the industry.” – Ron Simmons, former Artist Manager, Chicago USA.

“Love this lady and her music! A highly talented songwriter, Jeniqua’s music touches life in the most personal ways, but always is positive, encouraging and very entertaining!” – Hank David, Aussie Home Grown Radio Host.

GO BANG! Magazine: Where are you from and where do you presently call home?

Jeniqua: I’m from Sydney, Australia, and presently residing in Sydney.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please explain to our readers how you became interested in R&B/Soul and Gospel/Christian contemporary artists and music?

Jeniqua: Growing up I just naturally gravitated towards R&B / Soul music and inspiring soulful voices in pop, such as Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Gloria Estefan. I bought all their music, back in the tape days and some vinyl. Our house would be filled daily with their music and me dancing around the lounge room. Whitney used to get the most play. She was and still is my FAV. Nearly wore a whole in the vinyl playing her constantly on repeat. My mum also used to give Barbara Streisand a good go too. I loved her tone.

I also grew up listening to and singing hymns in the church we attended since my birth… and from my teenage years, moved on to other churches along the way, volunteering in their creative / worship teams. Mostly in roles such as worship leader, vocal director and choir director and assisting others in the team with their vocals, songs, vocal arrangements and also song writing for the church. I am still involved to this day with the Creative team at church.

I’d write praise & worship songs for the church congregation and outside of that I was writing my R&B Soul Gospel songs, they were different to the songs we sang at church as a congregation, though were added as bonus tracks to the church albums. So I write both types.

There are other genres/artists I listened to at various stages in my late teens, though I definitely loved soulful music, R&B and my favourite, Gospel. It resonates with my soul. Some of my favourite Gospel artists are, Ce Ce and Be Be Winans, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Smokie Norful and many more.


GO BANG! Magazine: Your vocal rhythm, timbre, tones and energy are infectious. Your voice has been described as angelic. Where does your soulful energy originate?
Jeniqua: Aaah thank you!

The soulful energy comes from my soul. It just seems to be what comes out without trying. It’s the gift that God placed in me and I’m so glad He gave me a gift that allows me to create and express myself with all that’s in me. It’s just what I flow in when expressing myself through song.

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe yourself and your musical styles to someone that may not be familiar with Jeniqua?

Jeniqua: Describing myself:
I’m passionate, creative, love God, love writing songs, performing, recording, love a good laugh and having fun, love seeing people win and have breakthrough in their lives. I also use my experience and love for what I do to help other singers and artists with their vocal development, in my vocal teaching business VoxConnect (www.voxconnect.co). I offer lessons in person or over the internet.

Two of my spiritual gifts are Exhortation (encouraging others) and teaching.

At the core of my songs is a message that is usually birthed in my quiet time with God. I write my songs from that place. Life’s experiences and revelations, relationships, love, lessons learnt etc… whatever it may be. Whether it is an R&B/Soul song for the mainstream market, a praise or worship song for church or an R&B/Soul style Gospel song that I release into the Gospel market….. they all carry truth and an uplifting message. They cross over boundaries and genres and appeal to a wide demographic and I am so grateful. My goal / mission is to inspire and empower others through my music.

Musical Styles:
My writing style is quite versatile. My songs have been played on playlists and in charts for genres such:
R&B / Soul
Urban / Hip Hop
Adult contemporary
Dance
CCM (Contemporary Christian Music)
Praise and Worship
R&B / Gospel
Inspirational

GO BANG! Magazine: Dance/EDM/House music is very popular here in the U.S. and abroad. Some may even argue that is even more popular in the UK than it is here in Chicago, where it was born. I recently interviewed Australian DJ/Producer Xander James who specializes in dance music. He described the Dance/House scene in Australia as vibrant. How would you describe the scene and do you plan to make a bigger splash here in the U.S.?

Jeniqua: Yes, more than R&B/Soul, the Dance scene here is more vibrant and popular. There are a lot of cover bands that cover R&B, though DJ’s that play and create dance songs get more play in clubs and in venues that require just a DJ.
I didn’t focus on the Australian market. I felt to spread my wings elsewhere, knowing Australia will eventually come across one of their own.

The songs I wrote for church were sung here in Australia, and we toured Canada, NZ and the USA back in 2003 and 2004.
I’ve just stayed in my own lane, doing me and focusing on what God has given me to use through song form & the industry and it just so happened the market for my music has been and still is in the UK, USA and various other countries, more so than Australia. The industry is smaller here, so I have more support in other countries.

There is more access to the type of style I do through internet radio and other connections throughout the internet. That has helped greatly in people far and wide coming across my music and what I do. They make up my supportive audience.
GO BANG! Magazine: You are also an award winning Gospel/Christian contemporary artist. Many might say that being involved with both Dance music and Christian music is a conflict of interests and beliefs. What would you say to those individuals?

Jeniqua: I write from the heart and as mentioned above, most of my songs come from the time I spend with God or through growth in Him and my everyday journey with God. I have strong faith and it has gotten me through a multitude of things and it will continue to.

At the end of the day I can express myself through any style of music, drum beat or genre I choose. If it is uplifting and spreading a message of hope and empowerment to others, it shouldn’t matter if it is 130bpm or 60bpm. I don’t get caught up in all that nonsense.

If my songs have resonated with another human beings, made them smile, made them dance, changed their day for the better, or helped them through trauma or a battle with mental illness, pointed them to Jesus, encouraged them in their walk…. then I have done my job and that is part of my God given purpose here on this earth.

GO BANG! Magazine: You have a Chicago connection being once managed by Chicago’s own Ron Simmons of Celestial Productions. You also were nominated as “Best Female Vocalist” at the 32nd Chicago Music Awards. What would you like to say to Mr. Ron Simmons, to the Chicago Music Awards, and more importantly to our Chicago readers?
Jeniqua: Yes, it was many years ago, around 2011, for a short time, as Ron was in the midst of writing a movie and that required all his attention.

I’d like to say, Hey Ron…. thank you for your advice etc during that time and the connections made. A few I will mention… 1. His mum Miss Edie… I love her. She is just delightful. 2. To be included in the 32nd Chicago Music Awards as a nominee, I am so grateful…. 3. Getting to meet and work with world class Photographer and great friend of Ron’s… the late Ernest Collins… what a man! Gifted, and so lovely. His smile lit up the room.

I’m grateful for all that Ron helped with and I wish him nothing but the best for his movie and all other projects he has in the pipeline. I so look forward to seeing his movie ‘Cabrini Green’… so much heritage and greatness came out of that place, so many stories and testimonies that Ron has to share.

And to Chicago listeners and Chicago itself… I love you. I love your city, it’s so beautiful, the buildings and the people I have met… I’ll be back! Oh and of course a fav….. SOUL FOOD (Yeeeeeeaaaah baby!!). OH MY GOODNESS…. (even now typing this, I’m getting a hunger pain and a craving for some beloved soul food). We don’t have it over here in Australia.


My first trip to Chicago some years back, I think around 2011… was my first time trying soul food. A whole group of us went out for a feast. The portion size was so massive, at the time I couldn’t fit it all in… To this day, I have flashbacks of it and wished I had finished all that goodness on my plate, especially the rib tips. Yum

GO BANG! Magazine: Are there any artists or producers, American or non-American that you would love to work with, that you haven’t so far?

Jeniqua: I would have loved to work with Leon Ware. There was talk of it, though Leon has since passed away. He worked with Maxwell, Donny Hathaway, Minnie Ripperton, The Jackson Five and Michael Jackson etc.+ I’d also love to work with Charlie Singleton (aka. The Phantom). A former member (vocals, writer and guitarist) from super group, Cameo. He is an incredible vocalist, performer, writer, guitarist and multi instrumentalist and producer. He has produced, written for, recorded and performed with some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as; Chaka Khan, Mariah, Charlie Wilson, Shanice Williams, Sheila E, amongst many others.


In general, I’d just love to work with those that are authentic, have great work ethic and have integrity. Those artists or producers that are respectful, genuinely love what I do, and are there for the right reasons.

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

Jeniqua: Yes, it’s a shocking thing for the whole world to experience… and I continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones to Covid and also thankful to all those on the front line… the Health workers, risking their lives to help others.

For me personally, I have remained in peace and getting on with whatever I can carry on with in this season, where obviously work has ceased somewhat for many. I don’t let that effect me. My faith is strong and gets me through anything.

The Pandemic has not been able to stop me from continuing to write or prepare. I am using this time wisely and also investing in myself as I do on a daily basis… in my faith and prayer, spending time with loved ones, laughing lots, study, building my vocal teaching work back up and modelling work and being grateful for life, my loved ones and all the blessings along the way.

GO BANG! Magazine: What are you working on now that our readers should be on the lookout for? Do you have any projects lined up for later in the future after the COVID-19 pandemic that you can tell our readers about?

Jeniqua: I have many songs already written and recorded and at various stages in the process of releasing music. Many of them are at mixing stage.

For some time now I have not had access to the things that would usually be more available to me eg: studio for mixing etc… I have had to wait for various reasons and for numerous things to get back up and running… so I will not be releasing anything anytime soon. Though I plan to release more singles and an album for both R&B/Soul mainstream and another Gospel Album.

I will keep you updated on my website, social pages and via my mailing list, for all releases. Look forward to sharing them all with you.

God bless you all!

Thank you for this interview Pierre. God bless.
Jeniqua J

YOU CAN FOLLOW JENIQUA BY VISITING WEBSITE: www.jeniqua.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

Music/Business/Nightlife: REGGIE C. CORNER / THEWAYWEWERE PRODUCTIONS 20th ANNIVERSARY

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Reginald Corner is one of House music’s greatest assets in Chicago and has been extremely instrumental in keeping the peaceful celebration of music alive.

On the House scene since it began in 1980, Corner has had the pleasure of watching House flourish over the past four decades. During that time, he formed relationships with some of the most relevant DJs, party goers and communities in the Chicago area. His stance with everyday Chicago helped shape the powerful production entity “The Way We Were” which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Some of his notable accolades include working with the City Of Chicago to provide platforms throughout the land celebrating the power of House, specifically, how its music brings together all ethnicities and sexual orientations. Some examples are helping curate an exhibit of House music at the Chicago Cultural Center in which Corner shared photos, as well as knowledge of how it all started at places such as the infamous Music Box with DJ Ron Hardy. He also worked to put together House in the Park, one of the city’s favorites, giving people a chance to relax after work with different platforms of House music.

Some of Corner’s work includes promoting the Chosen Few Picnic yearly, where tens of thousands flock to Jackson Park to celebrate music in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Corner, along with The Way We Were Productions, looks forward to remaining a part of the House music journey in Chicago and abroad. Corner can be considered an orator, watching to ensure its past is not tarnished and remains a powerful force of peace between all who partake in its glory and continues to “beat the box” into 2020.

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first become involved with DJ’ing and music?

Reggie Corner: Sauers was down the street from my house as a youth. I went over there being nosey and stumbled on House music/Disco/Preppy/New Wave Punk, and I liked it. They were playing a lot of music I’d heard from my older siblings at the house.

I played around with it as a kid. But I’m not a DJ. The opening slot gave me the opportunity. The party must go on, so I would step in. I started off by necessity. Sometimes DJ’s were late or not showing up on time. I had to keep the party moving.

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

Reggie Corner: I was popular among the people. Knowing people made it easier. I learned from my elders Butch and Craig, as well as Robert Williams who really showed me promotion and production… the art of producing events. My personality makes me a people person and my job is to make sure people enjoy themselves. That is my priority.

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?

Reggie Corner: For me, do whatever works to make you successful. Social media is not the only tool to reach people. There’s text messaging and emails too, basically creating databases. I have databases I have built for years. You have to be tenacious and master every social platform. I still go back to my roots of what I was taught. Simply print flyers, etc. The promotion game has changed and will continue to change, but never forget the old way.

GO BANG! Magazine: Are there any promoters or producers, past or present that inspire or motivate you to do what you do?

Reggie Corner: The love of House inspires me.

GO BANG! Magazine: How has the House music promotional scene in Chicago changed over the years and has the change been positive or negative, in your opinion?

Reggie Corner: Some of the people and the places have changed, some of the music has changed, but I always keep it close to the roots……for the love of house. Love cannot exist with negativity.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why is it important to you to keep the spirit and history of the House music genre alive, peaceful and accurate?

Reggie Corner: History is what we stand on for the future….. “In the beginning” is always important….The beginning sets the stage for now.

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

Reggie Corner: It’s fucked up! But, like everything in life, it’s a tragedy that we have to adapt to. Stand up or fold! Hopeful you’ll stand up and succeed.

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?

Reggie Corner: House is in a stall, in limbo, because of COVID-19. All plans are at a standstill. But, hold your punches right now. You can never let your right hand know what the left hand is doing.

GO BANG! Magazine:  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU MY FRIEND!!!   HAPPY 20TH ANNIVERSARY TO THEWAYWEWERE!!!!!



YOU CAN FOLLOW REGGIE C. CORNER & THEWAYWEWERE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/reginald.corner

https://www.facebook.com/reggiec.corner/

LinkEd In:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/reggie-c-b4b30b15/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/reggie_corner/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/reggieccorner/?hl=en






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: HYDE PARK RECORDS’ ALEXIS BOUTEVILLE

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photo courtesy of: https://www.facebook.com/HydeParkRecords

GO BANG! Magazine founder Pierre Andre’ Evans recently approached Hyde Park Records owner Alexis Bouteville, in hopes that Hyde Park Records would stock and sell his debut book “INSIDE THE MINDS OF ENTERTAINERS.”  Alexis responded that he was more than happy to support local talent and would definitely place the book in his front window, on full display!  That’s the kind of support we ALL need!

You can purchase “INSIDE THE MINDS OF ENTERTAINERS” at Hyde Park Records and on Amazon:    https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Mind-Entertainers-Book-ebook/dp/B07JGDT18X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=inside+the+mind+of+entertainers+pierre+andre+evans&qid=1601488870&sr=8-1

The following is a reprint of the Chicago Reader “Faces of 53rd Street” advertisement:
VIDEO/AD LINK:  https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/hyde-park-records-53rd-street/Content?oid=53837742

You could say that Alexis Bouteville, owner of Hyde Park Records, discovered Chicago by way of Paris. Alexis had a record store in his native France and was going on frequent buying trips in the United States to keep the store stocked. Chicago always had the best selection of unique vinyl, and it wasn’t long before he fell in love with Hyde Park and the whole South Side area.

In 2011, Alexis took over the existing Hyde Park neighborhood record store that had been there since the 1970s – Second Hand Tunes – and renamed it as Hyde Park Records. Located at 1377 E. 53rd Street, the store is always listed as one of the best independent record stores in the city. Thrillist referred to it as “…everything a neighborhood record shop should be. With live DJs, a chummy community vibe, and a bangin’ selection of wax never short on hip hop or international flair, there’s always something happening at this crate digger’s paradise… If anyone tries to tell you all record stores are the same, a visit here provides for an unimpeachable rebuttal.” Alexis explains that Hyde Park Records “… specializes a lot in older music and vinyl, and especially R&B, blues, and jazz. We also sell a lot of tapes so everything vintage is really coming back.” The store also buys used records, and on any day you can see Alexis expertly (and very quickly!) flipping through collections to find the rare records he knows his customers want, as the owners look on hopefully.

A recent Chicago Reader article noted that local rapper Vic Mensa counts Hyde Park Records as one of his favorite neighborhood hangouts from when he was a young kid. He started coming to the store when he was just 11 or so and it “…helped (him) develop his diverse musical taste.” And Mensa is not the only one. Hyde Park Records is more than just a record store – it’s an important part of the neighborhood, ingrained in so many music lovers’ lives. Alexis says, “The store is also a great place for people to meet…to talk and share about music, musicians, DJs, (and) producers – people need a place like this. The community interaction aspect is one of his favorite parts of being a small business owner in the neighborhood, and Alexis adds, ”To go further south is different, further west is different, further north is different. (Hyde Park) is really a little town within Chicago.”

It’s not uncommon to find customers making buying trips from as far away as Europe and Japan. Wellknown hip hop producers DJ Spinna, Pete Rock, and Large Pro are regular customers from New York, as well as DJ QBert from San Francisco.

The store is a part of major local events such as the recent Silver Room Sound System Block Party, held on July 21, hosting Mr. JayToo, DJ Marbll, Erica Kane, Brian Reaves, James Vincent, and DJ Mikey Mike. WGFM’s annual Soul Reunion takes place every spring and summer, and the store hosts a monthly “All Vinyl Series” with visiting DJs. In addition to records, Hyde Park Records stocks CDs, DVDs, books, and vintage Ebony and Jet issues.

1377 E. 53rd Street
773-288-6588
http://www.hydeparkrecords.com

Reprint of the Chicago Reader “Faces of 53rd Street” advertisement:
VIDEO/AD LINK:  https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/hyde-park-records-53rd-street/Content?oid=53837742

Music/Nightlife: Detroit’s DJ TONY PEOPLES

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Photo courtesy of www.facebook/com/DJTonyPeoplesHouseGroup

Young Tony Peoples was only seven years old when he picked up a new toy and a record player with two speakers. He would place one speaker outside of his bedroom window and DJ for the neighbors or anyone walking by that could hear him. He knew at that moment he wanted to be a DJ and he wanted the whole world to know.

Later at 12 years old, his older brother came home with a mixer and two belt-driven turntables. He immediately started DJ’ing a small selection of records. His brother asked him “how do you know how to do that and blend music so easy?” He replied “I’ve been doing it for years in my head when I was pretending to be a DJ.” We both started doing parties for people in the neighborhood where we lived. Word got around real fast that we were the ones to hire as DJs. We did cabarets, basement parties and backyard parties.

When Tony turned 19, he went professional after he got a call that hired him as a club DJ for Tuesday nights at the Grand Quarters in Detroit. The theme night was “Tuesday Night Illusions” produced by Keith Giddings and a young lady named Pam. He played music between the shows. After the show he would mix music for the closeout. That was the beginning of his career.

He has DJ’d for clubs, cruises, major cities and outside of the country too. Even though he had a day job working in the factory for many years, he managed to do both. Now he’s excited to explore the world and see the world while using his talents. Tony calls it “a vacation while working.”

Lastly, he has shared the “1 & 2’s” with several notable DJs including Ken Collier, Melvin Hill, DJ Semaj, Melvin Gentry, DJ Cent, DJ Dream, DJ Red Dawg, DJ Marquis Detroit, Mojo Detroit, DJ Eddie Fludd, DJ Tone and many more.


GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about DJ’ing that attracts you to it?

DJ Tony Peoples: People enjoying the music is what attracts me to it. I basically get a rush from people having a good time and dancing.

GO BANG! Magazine: The Chicago House sound, the home of House, is different than Detroit’s House. How would you describe Detroit House and what is similar and different from the Chicago sound?

DJ Tony Peoples: Most definitely is different, however they are very much alike. Detroit’s House has been known as a soulful sound, hard hitting hand claps and a fat bottom bass with what sounds like a fat woman or a fat man singing. What I mean by that is that we want our House sang by a powerful, mature vocalist, not a lil girl or boy that needs to mature.

GO BANG! Magazine: Techno and EDM are also very popular in Detroit. What is YOUR favorite style of Dance music and why?

DJ Tony Peoples: Disco Dubs, Deep House, Garage and Gospel House because I need the type of House that will pierce your soul. Once again must I say I want a fat woman or fat man singing, not a skinny lil boy that needs his voice to mature. I need a vocalist singing about their problems. Something I can relate to .

GO BANG! Magazine: If you had the opportunity to DJ at ANY venue in the world, where would that be and if you had the opportunity to DJ with any other DJ, who would that be and why?

DJ Tony Peoples: I would want to play a big party on Miami Beach. I would like to spin with Louie Vega. He moves me through his music and for me to be on the same platform to spin with him would be a dream come true.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please describe the DJ Tony Peoples sound to our readers and what separates you from other DJs?

DJ Tony Peoples: The DJ Tony Peoples sound is that sound from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. My format is that I make sure I stick to the basics. I try to keep the same sound I had 30 years ago, so people appreciate me not changing. I’m me.

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

DJ Tony Peoples: Ken Collier, Melvin Hill, Larry Levan and Louie Vega motivate me.

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

DJ Tony Peoples: I am making sure I limit the people I am around. If I have an event, I make sure we keep a distance. I also wear my mask. I only go to my gigs and very few other places.

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 Tony Peoples: Most of my events are in Michigan. I’ve recently started a new party every Thursday at Georgiz419, 1205 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. So far, it’s doing well on the patio deck and parking lot. It’s called “Jack’d up and Grinded Thursdays.” I will be doing something in Atlanta in the summer of 2021.

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 Tony Peoples: I am disgusted that not only a life had to be taken, but the fact how it was done. How could anyone do something like this and not feel it was wrong.


Follow DJ Tony Peoples:
Facebook @Tony Peoples, Instagram @djtonypeoples, Snapchat @djtonypeoples, Tik Tok @djtonypeoples and Twitter @musesolo




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/Events/Nightlife/Music: ROBBI THE PROMOTER

Posted on 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 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

Music: LADY ALMA

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

International singer and songwriter, LADY ALMA, is bringing her soaring, searing vocals back to eager audiences who desire her incomparable funk-house-soul stylings. From her dynamic live shows that left critics and fans alike breathless across the globe for two decades, to the recent revival of her hit single produced by The Rainmakers entitled “Let It Fall”, LADY ALMA continues to be a widely praised source of true sonic satisfaction since her introduction.

Born in San Diego, and raised in Philadelphia, LADY ALMA began her entry into the house music scene recording club anthems helmed by the likes of super-producers Yukihiro Fukutomi, Masters at Work, Fanatix, 4Hero, and fellow Philly mainstay King Britt, where she was featured on his legendary album When the Funk Hits the Fan. She has worked with Mark de Clive-Lowe – fan favorite songs include “Keep It Movin’”, “Believe”, “Hold Your Head Up” and their infectious 2010 cover of Michael Jackson’s “I Can’t Help It”. In 2014, she released her single “It’s House Music”, produced by Osunlade, on Yoruba Records, which is still considered a fan-favorite world-wide. In 2017, her single “Peace You’ll Find” was released on Reelsoul Musik, produced by Will “Reelsoul” Rodriguez.

Her track “Let It Fall”, made a resurgence in 2018 when the song went viral via Facebook with over 30 million views (video of a fan seen dancing and lip-syncing to the song in Johannesburg, Gauteng South Africa). Not long after, another video of legendary choreographer Toni Basil, dancing to “It’s House Music”, went viral with over 5 million views on Twitter, and was also seen on Inside Edition. The demand for LADY ALMA’s infectious groove went off the charts. Her single “Glory & Honor” (produced by Darryl James) was released in March 2018, and quickly followed by “A Time And A Place” with producer/DJ Ralf GUM, which was released in June 2018 on GOGO Music. Also, in 2018, LADY ALMA was recognized by Traxsource as “Best of 2018” including: “2 Top 10s”, “16 Top 100 spins” and “60 features in DJ Top 10 Charts” to name a few.

The following year, LADY ALMA released her highly anticipated anthology album entitled Twilight (June 28, 2019), with longtime collaborator Mark de Clive-Lowe, via Mashibeats. LADY ALMA’s powerhouse vocals were also featured on a number of tracks including: Low Steppa’s “Make You Move”, which reached #1 on Traxsource; Dego’s (2000Black) third album “Too Much”, on song entitled: “Just Leave It”; Valvin V. Roane’s “Just Call”; and the revered and anthemic “Let It Fall” remix with legend DJ Spinna (“Let It Fall” Galactic Soul Remix), was released on Moulton Music fall 2019. The year concluded on a high note, as Lady Alma performed at the 29th annual Chosen Few Picnic & House Music Festival in Chicago on July 6th, 2019.

In 2020, LADY ALMA hasn’t slowed down! She’s featured on “Landlord” by Swift Technique, which was released on Swift Technique’s indie label in January. Also in January, LADY ALMA released a compilation of remixes of her track “Make You Move” featuring renowned DJs including: Terry Hunter, Mark Francis, DJ Shannon & Lil Dave on T Box’s Records.
She plans to carry this momentum throughout 2020 and beyond, with an upcoming re-release remix of the 2015 track “Your Time To Shine” (Wipe The Needle Remix) by Sol Brown featuring Lady Alma via Makin Moves Records. LADY ALMA’s fam can also look forward to her newest single, “All The Way Far Away” scheduled for release in August 2020, with more new tracks with features from the likes of Rich Medina and Present Tense coming later in 2020.

Whether you’re in Toronto, Japan, Berlin, London, Paris, Johannesburg, or major cities across the US, LADY ALMA’s music is revered by many fans and DJs alike. As quoted by legendary dj/producer DJ Jazzy Jeff, “Oh my God…if you’re looking for some true soulful emotion, movin’ vocals…here you go…she makes me wanna throw my hands in the air & party the nite away… that’s Philly soul for ya!”.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you first get started in music and when did you know that you wanted to pursue it professionally?

Lady Alma: l was born into this from day one. I knew I wanted to do this the moment I could talk and so it began my musical journey.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you receive vocal training as a child growing up?

Lady Alma: I went to Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) from 7th grade to 12th grade, graduating 10th of my class, receiving the “National Honor Roll” and “Alto of the Year” award. After school, I attended Settlement Music School for classical voice and piano.

GO BANG! Magazine: Growing up in Philly, you had to have been influenced by the Philly sound. How would you describe the Philly sound and how has Philadelphia influenced you?

Lady Alma: Absolutely! I would have to describe The Philly Sound as being an eclectic sound of funky jazzy uplifting soulful music, only the way Philly can do it, and if you know you know.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your vocal rhythm, timbre, tones and energy are infectious. Your vocals cause spiritual reactions similar to gospel music. Where does your soulful energy originate?

Lady Alma: I would have to say from my soul and my life experiences, good and bad.

GO BANG! Magazine: Another signature sound of your music is the Chicago House music vibe. How were you introduced to House and what is it about House music that attracts you to perform it?

Lady Alma: I was introduced to House when I attended college for a spell. Coming from a gospel background, it was inevitable to be attracted to the driving forces that House had to offer (ie..drums, keys, bass) the sounds that the producers was doing surely seduced me on the dancefloor. As for why I love to perform house music? It’s the people, the atmosphere, the music…what more can I say?

GO BANG! Magazine: In 2019, you performed here in Chicago at the 29th annual Chosen Few Picnic & House Music Festival. It is a required event to attend in the House music community worldwide. It attracts over 40,000 House music lovers each year. Can you please describe to our readers how it made you feel to be invited, to perform, as well as the audience reaction to you?

Lady Alma: First I would like to give a mad shout out to my brothers in music, The Chosen Few Djs and thank you for giving me the opportunity. If I had to describe how it was to perform for House elites, well I’ll just say it was humbling and a great big honor to rock. I’m still on cloud nine!

GO BANG! Magazine: “Let It Fall” and “It’s House Music” are two songs that are staples in the House community. Your vocals are totally different on each one, yet the feeling is the same… pure joy. When choosing songs to record, is there anything in particular that you look for that helps you decide if it’s a fit for you and do you have any input in creating the music tracks?

Lady Alma: I want to say thank you and yes it’s a feeling that I get in my heart that usually hits the moment the track starts, and yes sometimes I get to have input in the music process.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve had a chance to perform overseas and in other countries. How are you received by foreign audiences and is there any difference in the love that you receive from U.S. audiences?

Lady Alma: If you had asked me this years ago, I would say yes, however I have been blessed lately to be received by both sides of the world with love equally.

GO BANG! Magazine: What are you working on now that our readers should be on the lookout for?

Lady Alma: At this present time, I just released a remix of one of my tunes entitled “Your Time To Shine” by yours truly and Sol Brown and Lee Gomes (Wipe Me Down mix.) Next month I’ll be releasing a track entitled “Far Away All The Way” with my brothers in music Dj Rob Payne and David Marston on BBE records, and more works to come.

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

Lady Alma: I’m dealing the best way I can. I stay in quarantine and only come out when I need too. I stay safe, sane and sanitized and I’m watching and waiting.

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?

Lady Alma: “We are truly living in historic times, and the conversation happening now in our country is so important, and long overdue. Continuing the conversation is the key for us all; and as a collective, to bring about real change.”

GO BANG! Magazine:  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!


FOLLOW LADY ALMA:
Lady Alma Social Media Links: https://linktr.ee/theladyalma


Lady Alma & Sol Brown new single released 7/17/20:

“Your Time To Shine” (Wipe The Needle Remix) – https://makinmoves2.bandcamp.com/album/your-time-to-shine-wipe-the-needle-remix

 



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: CHUCK “THE VOICE” ROBERTS

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

We are saddened to announce the passing of Chuck TheVoice Roberts, the vocalist on the House song “IN THE BEGINNING THERE WAS JACK!” He will definitely be remembered as THE VOICE of House. We at GO BANG! Magazine had the honor of interviewing Chuck. In honor of his life legacy, we at GO BANG! Magazine are reprinting our interview with him that we conducted with him in August, 2020.  I had recently spoken to him and he had soooooooo many upcoming and future plans.  DAMN, HE WILL TRULY BE MISSED! – Pierre Andre’ Evans….friend of Chuck <3  Rest in Peace homie…. #Respect #Legacy #InTheBeginningThere WasJack #ChuckTheVoiceRoberts

“In The Beginning There Was Jack and Jack had a Groove” The House music gospel, The Preacher’s Anthem are just a few of the descriptions given to the now famous speech. Fans of House, Dance and other genres of music for that matter can most certainly finish the rest of the verse that Chuck “THE ORIGINAL VOICE OF HOUSE MUSIC ” Roberts so eloquently spoke on one of House Music’s most defining recordings. This is evident by the millions of YouTube plays and samples by all genres of DJ’s. This is proof of the power of those spoken words.

How it all started:

When: The year 1987
Who: “Jack”
Where: A heavenly studio on the West side of Chicago
What: Chuck explained to his people spoken in a godly voice straight from the House Book of Genesis in omniscient detail of how house music was born and the impact on it has on your body and soul. Then Jack disappeared back into the heavens only to be heard all over the world but never seen. For you see in Jack’s realm there is no time. Since then House Heads have anticipated his return for 30 years to come into the presence of more knowledge and wisdom of Jack’s House.

Little did they know it was written for the year 2018 we would see the return of Jack and his soul stirring words of musical edification. “In The Beginning There Was Jack” was released on Ultra Music in 2018. Produced by Terry Hunter and also featuring Monique Bingham. This is a refreshed version of the original classic “My House”. Here are just a few of what the media articles and music industry Tastemakers have to say about the most prolific and iconic messages in dance music:

DJ Wayne Williams Sr. VP of A&R at RCA Records and world famous House Music DJ and Gatekeeper states “Chuck’s acapella is arguably the most important recording in house music history next to Marshall Jefferson’s “Move Your Body!”

With his proud voice as strong as ever, he is once again calling on audiences around the world to unite in a time of unthinkable struggles. His new 2020 inspirational track ‘I Choose To Live’ boldly states his refusal to bow down in fear, choosing instead to embrace life to the fullest. The rhythms are vibrant and hypnotic, filled with colorful melodies that remind us all that better times are on the way. No one knows when we will be able to dance together again, but as long as Chuck Roberts is making music, house fans all over the globe have something to unite around.

JACK’S HOUSE:
“IN THE BEGINNING, THERE WAS JACK, AND JACK HAD A GROOVE,
And from this groove came the groove of all grooves,
And while one day viciously throwing down on his box, Jack boldy declared,
“Let there be HOUSE!”and house music was born.
“I am, you see, I am the creator, and this is my house!
And, in my house there is ONLY house music.
But, I am not so selfish because once you enter my house it then becomes OUR house and OUR house music!”
And, you see, no one man owns house because house music is a universal language, spoken and understood by all.
You see, house is a feeling that no one can understand really unless you’re deep into the vibe of house.
House Music is an uncontrollable desire to jack your body.
And, as I told you before, this is our house and our house music.
And in every house, you understand, there is a keeper.
And, in this house, the keeper is Jack.
Now some of you who might be wondering,
“Who is Jack, and what is it that Jack does?”
Jack is the one who gives you the power to jack your body!
Jack is the one who gives you the power to do the snake.
Jack is the one who gives you the key to the wiggly worm.
Jack is the one who learns you how to walk your body.
Jack is the one that can bring nations and nations of all Jackers together under one house.
You may be black, you may be white; you may be Jew or Gentile. It don’t make a difference in OUR House.
And this is fresh!”
Lyrics: Rhythm Control – “My House” (vocal by Chuck Roberts) Catch A Beat Records ©1987

GO BANG! Magazine: Where are you from, where did you spend your childhood and where do you presently call home?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: The West side of Chicago, IL and I currently reside in the Western Suburbs of Illinois.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you receive vocal training as a child growing up, when did you first learn that your voice was distinct and unique, and when did you decide that you were interested in the music industry professionally?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: At about six or seven my parents would take me around to sing in church! Then in the 7th grade, I joined the choir in school. Very few people knew that I could sing however, I ended up getting the solo lead for a school assembly. It was the theme song from the Broadway musical “Aquarius” and the song was “Let The Sun Shine In.” After that, I joined my first band at about 13 and we patterned ourselves after the Jackson Five and performed around the city. As fate would have it, we lost our rehearsal space, so my Dad gave us space at the church to use until we did the unthinkable. He thought we were practicing gospel music, but we made the mistake of playing “Black Magic Woman” by a Rock group named Santana!! Needless to say, that didn’t end well!

I went on to be a part of a Funk band called “Mister” which had some local fame with the record “I Wanna Thank You.” We later changed our name to The Verdict.

GO BANG! Magazine: When making “My House” who wrote those famous words that you “preached”, did you know at the time that those words would go down in House culture history, and how does it feel to be known as THE VOICE?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: I wrote the words, but I actually spoke them before I wrote them. We did it in about five takes. At the time, I had no idea they would help define this genre of music we call “House.” I just wrote what I saw and felt was going on at the time throughout the city and in clubs like “Factory” on the West Side where I actually worked.
It’s very humbling to be called “The Voice” of House music. I had no idea it would lead to this.

GO BANG! Magazine: Many may think that they know your strong, powerful vocal sound, but they would be surprised to learn that your falsetto game is strong too. When do you plan to present THAT OTHER voice to the world?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Well, I have a current song out now on Ultra Records called “I Choose To Live” in which I showcase it. Additionally, I will have more music released in the very near future where I will show this side of me as well.

GO BANG! Magazine: Many people know that you are a singer, but many may not know that you are also a songwriter and producer. Can you please tell our readers about your musical background?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Yes, I have been on the writing and production side for many years. I directed choirs for many years, as well as helped develop many artists, most notably Danny Boy from Death Row Records, among others.

GO BANG! Magazine: We all know that you weren’t born House as a child, so what other types of music do you perform/produce, that prepared you for who you are today?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: You are correct. I came on the scene during the Funk band era, so R&B and Gospel were my main focus for many years.

GO BANG! Magazine: I’m sure you’ve had a chance to perform overseas and in other countries. How are you received by foreign audiences and is there any difference than the love you get from U.S. audiences?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Yes, I have performed all over Europe and in Canada. My reception is great here in the U.S., however overseas it’s on a whole different level. They really embraced the “My House” speech and incorporated it in their everyday lives. It’s surreal because it often brings people to tears when they see me in person performing the speech. It’s very humbling. It’s still hard to believe the impact those words has had on people spanning over the past 30 plus years.

GO BANG! Magazine: I know you’re currently working on new music. One of those new songs is “All 4 One.” I’ve had the chance to sample it, as well as others, and they’re ALL HOT! Please tell our readers about that song, as well as any others that we should be on the lookout for.

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: “All 4 One” is a rally cry song for everyone, as it will take a collective effort to get through these trying times, now and in the future.

You should also be on the lookout for “Not The House That Jack Built” which will drop on August 7th. It’s a song produced by ATFC featuring yours truly. Again, it’s a song of inclusion and emphasizes that “it takes a village to get things done.” We are all in this together and it will take us all to get through.

As you know Chicago is also home of R&B Steppin’ music. I have a project coming soon in which I believe will be well received by the Steppin’ community.

GO BANG! Magazine: For our worldwide readers, many of whom are House here in Chicago the home of House music, how would you describe your style of music and how has the House culture influenced your sound?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: I would best describe my style as inspirational and feel good music. In fact, this is the only type of music you will hear from me regardless of what genre it falls in. Music and my voice in particular is a gift from God and I must use it to uplift and encourage in every way I can. The House culture is very spiritual and uplifting for the most part, so yes this can’t help but surface in my recordings.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a multi-talented artist that can sing, write, and produce, I’m quite sure that you have other talents that you haven’t exposed to the public. What other artistic gifts are you blessed with?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Actually, I am an ordained minister and I can play the Congo’s.

GO BANG! Magazine: If you could work with anyone living or dead, who would it be?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Michael Jackson

GO BANG! Magazine: What are you working on now bro?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: I have records currently out in multiple genres of House production. However, I’m working on a soulful house project at the moment.

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

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: Well to be totally honest, I’ve fared pretty well. While lots of people were unsure about the future, my focus was a little different. I know that if I continue to live according to the word of God, I already know how my story ends and what the future holds! SO I’M STRAIGHT!

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?

Chuck ‘The Voice’ Roberts: I believe that anytime anyone who loses their life in such a manor, all parties involved should be held accountable. Those who are guilty of the crime should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law!

Our community is not anti-police we are anti-bad police. Cultural sensitivity training and new de-escalation tactics must be taught. Also, we live in the age of technology. So, there is no way we should not have better technology to take down or subdue without killing them, if the police feel they are being threatened.


You can find Chuck’s music on ALL streaming platforms.

Follow Chuck on Instagram @inthebeginning_chuckroberts

You should also be on the lookout for “Not The House That Jack Built” which will drop on August 7th. It’s a song produced by ATFC featuring Chuck. It’s a song of inclusion and emphasizes that “it takes a village to get things done.”

Check out Chuck performing his famous speech in Malmo Sweden: https://vimeo.com/373876799?fbclid=IwAR3RWz4tHlOBo4YJMX_Ub7me53x_JlXCa1QISeHBC_nUD4Y1dbv2nPDJhbI

 



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: JON PIERCE

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

A native of the south side of Chicago, Jon Pierce packs quite a bit of baritone into his slim 5’10, 175lb. frame. At just the impressionable age of 11, he realized his deep love and sheer passion for music having been exposed early on to such musical genius as Stevie Wonder, Fela Kuti and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. At age 12, Jon remembers that his mother had given him a Walkman along with a Luther Vandross cassette tape that he would study for hours, getting lost in the melodies of the rifts and vocalizing the intricate harmonies. It is the soulfulness of these and many other influences that helped shape Jon Pierce’s personal full-energy sound, which is filled with a hint of jazz, hypnotic house rhythms and his natural fit, R&B.

A professional singer since age 15, Jon Pierce has been a consistent performer with both stage and vocal projects ever since. Fueled by his drive to, “take a set of songs and turn them into memorable moments for the audience,” Jon engages his unique style and creativity to deliver lasting impressions that have not only made him a permanent fixture in Chicago’s diverse soul and theatre scenes, but they have catapulted him globally with tours and performances throughout Germany, Japan and the UK.

Jon Pierce has worked with some of the industry’s top producers such as Ralf Gum, Louie Vega and Terry Hunter to name a few. His latest project is the poetic rhythms of his EP “The Love Take Over” a vibrant and up-tempo dance collection produced by Chicago-based DJ Sean Ali for Sounds of Ali Recordings. Already a fan favorite, this project is a true testament to Jon’s vocal capabilities and the authenticity of his unique sound.

Enter Jon’s Planet and experience his artistry!!!!

GO BANG! Magazine: What was it about Luther Vandross’ voice and singing style that captured you as a kid growing up and how has that influenced your musical style?

Jon Pierce: Luther was a master vocal arranger and writer! The way he put together melodies and harmony stood out for me more than anything! He had a way of being himself that attracted me to him. Most of the singers that I like are original and have their own style! I listened to Luther and received some of his energy. I don’t sing anything like him. I took lessons from him to add and find more of me!

GO BANG! Magazine: Are you primarily a vocalist or can you/do you write lyrics, compose music, play an instrument or produce tracks as well?

Jon Pierce: I write all my songs. In the last five years I have also put on the producer hat.

GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to singing, you’re also a stage actor and dancer. How does your dancing and acting experience influence your singing style or stage presence AND are you still pursuing acting and dancing?

Jon Pierce: I went to school for musical theater. So as a performer, a lot of the dance and a lot of the production value that comes with performing in theater adds to my performances. So, I love theater and I love acting. I have performed at most of the major theaters in the Midwest region.

Before the shut down, I was scheduled to be in “The Gospel at Colonus” at the Court Theatre here in Chicago and I’m currently a principal dancer of Muntu African Dance Theater. So it’s a very big part of who I am. All of it works together.
All of it is me. I’m blessed to be a full-time entertainer.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve toured and performed in the U.S., U.K., Germany and Japan. How would you describe the main differences in U.S. audiences, versus other countries audiences, in reference to their appreciation of dance music and artists?

Jon Pierce: When someone flies you across the water to sing for them, they want you there. They have shown an appreciation for who you are and what you bring. I think Americana are so spoiled to having amazing talent, that sometimes they take it for granted.

GO BANG! Magazine: Is Dance the only genre of music you create or do you perform other styles of music? If so, what others? If not, why not?

Jon Pierce: I am a Dance artist and a soulful House artist! I chose it. I didn’t have a failed attempt at any other genres! I love the music and the energy it brings and the freedom of the message! I am all in for House!!

GO BANG! Magazine: With Chicago being the home of House music, and as a Chicago native, you’ve had the privilege of growing up House your entire life. How has the House music culture and community influenced your music?

Jon Pierce: It’s the music I do! That’s the influence of being young and listening to it on the radio and watching my family dance to it.

GO BANG! Magazine: Please name any producers, songwriters or other artists that you would LOVE to work with, that you haven’t thus far, and why?

Jon Pierce: I have had the honor of working with the top producers in dance music from all over the world! I am open to working with someone new that really has a grasp on music that pushes the sound forward. So, if there are any producers who feel they can bring something fresh, I would love to work with that energy!

GO BANG! Magazine: What can our readers expect from Jon Pierce in the future, after the Covid-19 pandemic clears up?

Jon Pierce: I plan on releasing more music! I wrote a book, so the release of my book, as well! I am on a journey of learning and growing, so I constantly want to share those lessons

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

Jon Pierce: Doing my best to maintain some levels of normalcy and at the same time adapt to whatever this government is about to throw our way!

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?

Jon Pierce: I believe that the complete system we call LAW needs to be revamped! Our judge and jury have become the police in the streets! Judges are just enforcing the judgement of the police. It is very sad that in 2020, we still have to deal with this level of human immaturity! We have to constantly show and call out crooked cops. Eventually, we will have to protect ourselves against racist cops, if Police Reform is not a priority to leadership in this country!


You can follow Jon Pierce on ALL social media @JonPierce and log onto his website @http://www.jonpierceplanet.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

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

Posted on 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

NEVER MISS A HIT!!!

Subscribe to GoBang! Magazine

You have successfully subscribed to the newsletter

There was an error while trying to send your request. Please try again.

GO BANG! Magazine will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Verified by MonsterInsights