Category: Television

Music/Television/Business: “MARCUS MIXX” SHANNON / TRAX RECORDS & TRAX TV

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

Born Marcus Shannon and raised in Chicago, IL, Marcus has been making House music since the mid 80’s, when House music was the “heartbeat” of Chicago’s nightlife.

Over his career, he has recorded different types of House music ranging from Acid to Deep, and from to Techno to Weird. He often experiments with sound and effects that don’t fit into the normal mode.

He’s currently the A&R and Production Manager for TRAX RECORDS.

GO BANG! Magazine: Can you describe your childhood and how it helped develop and form who you are today?

Marcus Mixx: I had one of the best childhood’s that a young person could ever have. Not only was I blessed to have both of my hard working, intelligent, smart, caring, creative, generous and more GOD loving and fearing parents around for all of my youth and many years after that, but I was also provided with the best education, fun times, life lessons and the basic principle of “The Golden Rule.”

When I was eight years old, my family moved from one great part of Chicago to one of the best neighborhoods in town. My folks got a huge house on Longwood Drive that sat upon three hills (two grass and one driveway), with a large back and side yard. The area was still mostly white at that time with a few loud bigots next door, but eventually the racism helped me learn how to ignore those redundant talking points by focusing more on music and humor.

As a young child I started listening to the radio and I found myself liking almost every style of music that was on the FM band. I’d turn the dial very slowly and stop when I heard something that caught my ears. It could be Rock N Roll, R & B, Top 40 and even Country music. I love all types of music. My parents also loved music, but it was mainly Soul/R & B and they had a huge collections of albums and 45’s that I really got into as well. I was also blessed when my parents not only bought a piano and organ, but I also took piano lessons. I really didn’t like the reading and studying music notes part of it, so I started playing by ear and began to have more fun trying to play songs that I liked. I believe that was the beginning of how I really got hooked on wanting to do something in the music business, even if it was just for kicks and not becoming rich and famous like the artists that I adored.

GO BANG! Magazine: You were a House DJ up until 1995. You were also a promoter. You reached great notoriety and many of your tracks were played during the times. You even collaborated with Ron Hardy on music. Please describe those years to our readers, how you became involved with House music, and why you stopped DJing.

Marcus Mixx: “The Hot Mix Five” on WBMX FM 102.7 is one of the main reasons that I got into House music. I didn’t know anything about House or mixing records together until a friend called me and said: “Turn the radio to WBMX and listen to what they’re doing!” I did so and it was so crazy, because the song never ended. I finally figured out that the records were being blended together. Not only did I get a grip on that aspect, but the music was thick, fast and fun! I immediately started recording almost every Hot Mix Five DJ every week for a long time. I’d play the mixes over and over, as well as, duplicate copies and give them to friends of all colors, especially hot babes.

I had heard about certain House music clubs that played this great music all night long and I was fortunate to get into some of the twenty one and older spots where I saw two turntables and a mixer for the first time. I was trapped by the control of the DJ’s who had the audio power to beat and bop the crowds. That week, I purchased a turntable with a pitch control. The week after, I bought another one that wasn’t the same style or design. Then I bought a small off brand mixer and starting invading stores like Importes Etc., Gramaphone, JR’s and others around Chicago to try and find what was being jacked on WBMX and in the clubs.

I made zillions of mixtapes of my blends on Tonemaster cassettes and I finally had enough courage to give some copies to the top club owners/managers, promoters and DJs, to see if I was good enough to spin at some parties. I even got to events an hour early and was star struck when I was able to speak for a moment with a REAL House music DJ. I offered to carry record crates in from their cars, get them drinks (on me) and of course explain that I’d spin for free just to get the chance to play before a big crowd. I swear to GOD, every House DJ that I met was down to earth and nice, even when they told me no thank you. Some gave me numbers to call for other possible gigs and some even called me (out of the blue) with chances to spin.

Quicker than I thought, I was opening parties at 8PM for mega House legends and there were actually a lot of people already on the dance floor. It was a great feeling, especially when some of the other jocks spoke to me and said “What’s Up”! I was blessed to spin in a couple of the most popular locations and high school events, i,e. Mendel high school.

After a while and not often being paid anything or way short of what I was told that I’d get for a session, I decided to go for it and become a promoter. I didn’t know much about that game then with the exception of passing out tons of (card stock) pluggers and hanging posters. I had listened to a few House legends discuss how they didn’t have to pay to get a club night by simply having parties on a dead evening and getting butts in there to buy drinks and snacks, for example, Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays were very slow nights in House music, because, people had to work or go to school the next day. The gate/door was all of their money. I took the advice that I heard and approached various venues in all kinds of neighborhoods, even the ones that normally wouldn’t have those types of scenes.

I also had an angle by using Ch.19 in Chicago on my friends (Liam Giagoes) Gitano Cameros’ television show “BOOOM TV”! We’d go live on the air early on Wednesdays and invite people to come out, hang and party with us in a few hours. The clubs and bars loved this. I made great money, but I also drank and gave away great money. After a few years of promoting, not only House music, but Rock based events too.

I focused more on making music and starting a record label called “Missing Records.” Liam, myself and others would hang out all night at his recording studio (Head Studio) and toy around with anything and object that the beer made us do. Unbelievable sounds and noises became part of a lot of our songs. Sometimes the music was put in a computer and looped and other times it was played freestyle. We did a lot of great and fun material, but once again, I started drifting into other things when we were really selling a lot of vinyl.

As far as working with Ron Hardy, that wasn’t really the deal. I often invited the DJ’s and their crews to come chill at the studio after a party that they had spun for, when I was promoting. On a few occasions Ronnie came thru with some people. I didn’t know major stuff about the music business/House music business, but I knew if I had a star like him on my label that it would pump it up big time. So with music pumpin’ in Head Studio, I asked Ronnie to put some headphones on and briefly listen to some of the material that I mixed and was about to put out. I wanted to know which versions of each song he thought he’d play at his parties. I gave him some money right there on the spot just to hear his thoughts. He was very cool about it. After a few tracks, he told me the versions that he liked and I went for it and said “Can I pay you to put your name as the mixer of those tracks?” He said “How much?” I said “$500 each track” He said “O.K., cool” I paid him in cash right there on the spot and we shook hands (in the old skool five minute way). Ronnie never recorded or mixed any of my music. That’s the way that it went down and only the “uninvolved, never there, gossip loving people” seem to have a problem with that moment in time. Tons of “handshake” deals were done back then on all levels of House music.

GO BANG! Magazine: It has been reported that you are or were homeless. If this is true, how did this happen and what are you doing now?

Marcus Mixx: I used to drink beer all day, every day since I was eighteen and it eventually caught up with me out of the blue. I started having multiple seizures that lasted longer and hurt way more than the constant blackouts and hangovers that I got so used to having. After having several major seizures at one of my family’s houses, due to tons of drinking beer, I was taken to Stroger (County) Hospital in Chicago and the doctors put me in the body scanner and did a bunch of test. When I came to, they told me that I have Epilepsy. At the time, I didn’t know the ins and outs of this disease, even though I’d heard the name all of my life. They showed me charts and graphs and explained that the left side of my brain is always expecting consistent alcohol and when there’s a lack of it, seizures, heart attacks, strokes and more potentially deadly events can occur. They said that I can either keep drinking at the high rates that my brain has been getting for years and maintaining those levels or to get cleaned out and stay sober. The third, unadvised version was to drink a lot and then go “cold turkey” for a few hours. Thank GOD that I chose the rehab program at the John Madden Center in Hines, Il.
After thirty days of getting sober and being able to talk to people that actually listed without cutting me off and stating how horrible I was, I decided not to bother any family, friends, etc. So I went to Pacific Garden Mission where I was able to listen to the word of GOD several times a day, have a safe place to crash, free food and rent, and lots of other wonderful perks that I’d never have by trying to live in and on the streets of Chicago. After two years of living at P.G.M., the rules were changed for the guest and it was no longer a place where people could stay as long as they wanted to. It became a thirty days in then you leave for thirty days and come back and so on. When my thirty days ended, I walked around my great city for GOD only knows how long.

I finally decided to visit/hangout at Stroger Hospital and I asked a state cop for any suggestions that he knew regarding homeless shelters. He called 311 and a van came and took me to Walls Shelter on the westside. This place is located in the auditorium of Walls Church. I really liked it there, mainly because they only let in 72 guys a night. After finding out that if I signed the list before we were cleared out every morning at six thirty a.m., then I was guaranteed a bed. Both P.G.M. and Walls helped to save my life in so many ways, even after a guy tried to kill me in Walls Shelter while I was using the washroom. He got angry over a disagreement between me and two other dudes three days before. The guy who stabbed me not only did damage to some of my internal organs that rendered two surgeries, but I’d lost my guaranteed spot at a great facility.

After a few weeks of staying at other places, I came back to Walls, even though the attempted murderer could still be living there. He was banned for a year, but I’d see him on occasion walking around and I held back from pounding his head into a sewer, because as I learned thru experience, I’d get blamed for the action. So for about a year, I continued to make music and videos on my MacBook during the day at Harold Washington Library until it was time to check back in at Walls.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a music producer, you have called your style of music “weird.” What motivates you to create the type music you do?

Marcus Mixx: Sometimes I just like to do music with limited parts and tracks. Then there’s times when I go for lots of sounds and elements to the point where I don’t remember where everything is. I’m all over the highway and open to anything when it comes to creating House. Often, I get sparked by hearing a great track, i.e., a song with lots of piano and/or strings. I totally admit that I get inspired by various artists of all flavors. Sometimes I like using lots of effects piled into one instrument or vocal and I’m still discovering what certain plugins do. As long as the beat is bouncin’ and movin’, I’ll play around with it and build something.

I’m the first to say that a lot of my music SUUUUUUUUUCKS! But, the world is so big, yet small due to the internet, a lot of people like the crap that I produce. I’ve always told the “experts” in House that most of my songs are not traditional, the way that they should be tracks, but I like to have fun and feel the vibes of the moments too. I might be on a Deep House trip in one moment, then an Acid one and the next thing that I know it’s a very bizarre, weird frame of mind. My advice to all artists/musicians “Try and share yourself in your music, but only do so when YOU want to. Do it the way that YOU like it. Lots of folks are going to dig YOU and your music!”

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve had a TV show on Chicago’s cable access (CAN TV) for years. Please tell our readers about your show and explain exactly what it is.

Marcus Mixx: I’ve been at C.A.N. TV/Ch.19(Chicago Access Network) since the early ’90’s. It all started when my boy Liam Gallegos aka Gitano Camaro told be how we could go live on television and just trip out and have fun and do whatever we wanted. He came up with a show idea called “BOOOM TV” in which we had people dancing in front of a green screen to a House mix where he added weird and bizarre video clips, i.e., sharks chasing ice cream cones or babes in bikinis pillow fighting while worms were crawling everywhere. I also took a lot of live phone calls during the action behind me and they were very diverse in content. They ranged from people whom were very offended by what they were viewing, to other drunks out there yelling how cool and different the show was. It was weird and mega fun! A lot of our psycho ideas came easily due to all of the booze and weed that we partied with. It was also a great promotional platform to invite people to our parties that were sometimes happening just a few hours from when we went off of the air.

I eventually got into video editing and I’ve been producing two different shows on Ch.19 for roughly 25 years. Even though the names of the programs have been changed around a few times, the basic premise of each one are the same. “Marcus Mixx ON TV” is a music video/variety show in which I play material mainly sent in from small labels and individuals who come from around the world. I feature all forms and styles of music. “First here, first played”. The second show “Marcus Mixxs’ House TV” is a half an hour House Music video mix in which I put video images over mixes supplied by various DJ’s from around the world. Each program is on 4 times a month (8 in total) after 11PM on various nights. They can also be watched on YouTube. I accept all music videos to this email address: mailto:marcusmixxchicago@gmail.com

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first become involved with TRAX Records and how has your role changed over the years?

Marcus Mixx: The first time I was hired by Trax Records was in the ’90’s when the original owner Larry Sherman was still there. One of the coolest, nicest and most talented House music legends (I can’t name him or he may be scorn by being nice to me) was the A&R/Label manager and was leaving the position and he asked me did I want the job. I thought that he was joking, but I eagerly took the job. To me it was like being in the NBA and playing for my home team “Da Bulls.” I was awestruck by being employed by the classic House music company. I loved making phone calls and sending faxes to stores and distributors around the globe and taking huge orders for all of the vinyl that they wanted. I also enjoyed recycling records that never sold that we purchased from a vinyl guy in town and pressing them into hit songs.

After a few years of living in two homeless shelters, I was blessed and rehired by the current C.E.O. of Trax Records Screamin’ Rachael Cain. Before making a full commitment to work for the new Trax Records, I asked Rachael to let me know what was going on with Trax on every level. I thought about making this move back to Trax a lot, because I needed something stable on the level.

Everything has been amazing, especially when dealing with all of the new music and talent, television, video and movie projects. I’m so blessed and glad that GOD has given this wonderful opportunity to me.

GO BANG! Magazine: TRAX Records has quite a controversial reputation. The main complaint is from former original artists from the labels start, under the leadership of Larry Sherman. Many of the artists say that they never received their due royalty payments, or ANY payments, even to this day. What do you have to say about that?

Marcus Mixx: Back then, a lot of guys would go down to TRAX with a couple of songs, drop them on Larry’s desk and ask for a certain amount of money. After a few minutes of negotiating, the contracts were signed, the money was given and the music was about to be mastered and turned into classic House music.

The one good thing that has been and still is going for the majority of the talent that signed is that Trax Records was very successful is helping to blow up many of their names and brands. If used properly, money can be made. GROW UP! LEARN FROM YOUR MISTAKES! Last point! But this may take some effort like reading and listening for a brief period so that you can learn about what’s going on currently with Trax Records with the new C.E.O. Screamin’ Rachael Cain. She’s the complete opposite of Larry Sherman. Everybody will learn very soon how she’s been fighting for ALL of the TRAX artists.

Constant slander and uninformed social media slams about her is the equivalent of Klan ERDs calling you the “N” word for no good reason. All of the built in rage and anger that has absolutely nothing to do with Rachael Cain. Shut the -UCK up for a few minutes and learn what’s she’s been doing to try and help all of you. What do you have to lose by contacting her and learning? A few, so called friends on social media! In closing “YES THE ORIGINAL Trax Records CONTRACTS WERE NOT GOOD FOR THE ARTISTS!”

GO BANG! Magazine: How does it feel to be affiliated with such a legendary, but controversial record label?

Marcus Mixx: The label isn’t controversial. As controversial as Larry Sherman was, it’s even more controversial that lots of the same artists would continue to sign away their music, over and over and over again! Were they forced to do so? -UUUUUUCK NO!!!!!!!! The artists made rational and coherent decisions on what actions they were taking each time that they went to the Trax Records warehouse to get their money and sign the contracts.

A lot of these guys don’t have the guts to admit that they (knowingly) screwed themselves. Back then, everybody and their mama new how Trax Records treated its artists. The talent definitely knew that every time they showed up with a finished song that they’d get some quick money and a very popular record pressed out on vinyl in a matter of hours with their name on it. Those records pumped up their names and brands and (for the smart ones) led to lots of fame, fortune and fun.
It’s like a guy that loves to bang all women that he meets on the first and only date without using condoms. The sex was MEGA AWESOME, but now he has two more “baby mommas” and a very painful S.T.D. Of course in his mind, it’s impossible for him to be at fault on any level. It’s the babies fault, as well as the condom companies fault for him not ever wearing one. SHUT THE FUUUUUUUCK UP AND LISTEN TO WHAT HAPPENED AND WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW! Swallow your pride for a moment! You might not only like what you hear, but you’ll at least get the other side of the two sided story.

GO BANG! Magazine: Unfortunately, as a result of your affiliation with TRAX records, many people do not have a positive opinion of you. Is there anything that you would like to say to those individuals, so that they can better understand you and your point of view?

Marcus Mixx: There’s absolutely nothing I can say or do to make some people have a positive opinion of me. I honestly just hope that everyone on GOD’s earth that has been blessed with chances and opportunities that they’ve been seeking, will go for it and do it in a respectful matter. In other words, don’t intentionally harm or screw somebody, even if you hate them. Spend more of your time focused on what you want, even if others around call you crazy or nuts. Go For It!

I hate racist people of all kinds! In order for me not to have very little to do with them, I don’t Google “Klan Rallies”, “Resident Rump material” or attend “White Power” marches holding up signs. It’s called avoiding the situation. It’s O.K. to avoid me in the same way. On the House music tip, I hear nasty rumors and stuff about lots of people whom threaten and slam me. Everybody is two faced and stabs each other in the back eventually! The Golden Rule is for Marcus “Mixx” Shannon.

GO BANG! Magazine: Tell our readers what you are currently doing, what new projects you are working on, and any more information that you want to share with our audience.

Marcus Mixx: As of today, I’m blessed and very fortunate to be the A&R/Label and Office Manager for Trax Records and Rap Trax Records. I sign the majority of new artists and help to promote their music. I also do the video production for our classic and new House music videos, our commercial television show “TRAX TV” which is on 4 times a week here in Chicago on Ch.25 (Mon., Tues. 11:30PM, Thurs. 10:30PM. and 11:30PM.), as well as our latest satellite television venture that debuts worldwide in August “The TRAX TV NETWORK.”

We also have a live Trax Records online party every Friday and Saturdays featuring top DJ’s from around the globe. Go to: http://www.traxparty.com It’s beyond exciting and a realistic dream coming true to be involved with the main pillar of House music during its continued renaissance.

Trax Records is still crapped on in so many ways, including via slander, defamation of character, personal threats, intent to cause physical harm, and so much more on the illegal tip on social media, print, television, etc. But, in truth or a least from another point of view, “Things are being run and handled so much differently than the past!” It’s just a darn shame that a lot of the House music legends won’t even listen to what’s going on now, even on their behalf, because they don’t have the courage to admit that they messed up by not reading a 3 or 4 page legal and binding contract.

The C.E.O. Screamin’ Rachael Cain has been fighting and trying to work out deals with various companies that ACTUALLY own lots of the classic TRAX catalog. She has never had any control over many of the hits that everybody knows and loves. As an artist, many of her tracks are being abused and mishandled in the EXACT same way as so many House legends. Her goal ever since she took over Trax Records has been to change the image completely around from the original days in which she had nothing to do with, expand the TRAX brand into other fields, (like what’s currently happening), and most of all “GETTING MONEY FOR THE ARTIST THAT -UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCKED THEMSELVES BY THEIR STUPID AND LAZY ACTS OF NOT READING (OR EVEN CARING AT THE TIME) THE CONTRACTS THAT THEY SIGNED!”

Why has and is she spending so much time, effort and money on lawyers to fix what the people whom botched up their situations? Well, it’s so simple. She knows what it’s like to do so, because “SHE DID THE SAME THING WITH SOME OF HER MUSIC!” Yet and still, folks have made a game and daily habit to repeat the redundant Bull-HIT that they don’t even know is true or not via all media outlets and personal conversations.

Why should people research what they claim? Resident Rump doesn’t do so! If any of the artists would like to LISTEN, not just hear, but LISTEN to her speak about what’s been going on regarding their songs, all they have to do is contact her and here’s the hardest part for most of them: “SHUT THE FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK UP FOR A FEW MINUTES AND LEARN WHAT IS GOING ON!” She’s on all of your sides! Calling her a slave master, a bitch, a racist, etc, has ABSOLUTELY nothing to do with (here we go again) “YOUR DUMB ASS MISTAKES FOR SIGNING AWAY PARTS OF YOUR LIFE FOR A SMALL ONE TIME FEE!” Maybe, if the House legends work together with Rachael on trying to recover some, if not all of the money that may be owed to them and yes, even her, things could change for the better.

In the meantime, as I write this, there’s more -UM sucking’ ASSWIPES writing false crap online. My advice to the ones that aren’t even or haven’t ever been involved with Trax Records in any way, but still love slandering and spreading illegal garbage every second about things they know nothing about, ”ROTATE HANDS AND OCCASIONALLY USE A SOCK AND/OR VASOLINE!” GOD Bless!

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

Marcus Mixx: COVID-19 has made me so much more aware of how blessed I am by being in a great place and working for and with a great person, Screamin’ Rachael Cain of Trax Records. Last year, I was only a month out of Walls Shelter. If I wasn’t a part of Trax, I’d be in a place with dozens of other people with hardly any room to move around, sleep, etc. Unfortunately, shelters are magnets for possibly getting COVID-19. I’m able to do 90% of my work from my MacBook here in the apartment and also at the Trax Records office. I really hope and pray that there’s a vaccine or cure soon!

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?

Marcus Mixx: I remember getting pulled over so many times, as soon as I crossed the city limits of Chicago. I would just be going to my grocery store jobs in Blue Island, IL and Merrionette Park, IL. as a kid. I was constantly pulled over and asked “Where the FUCK are you going “N” word?” and “Why Don’t You Go back To Africa?” Even though I had really funny and mind boggling responses to the undouched -UNTS, I always hand my hands at 10 o’clock & 2 o’clock positions and I didn’t move until told to. I always asked may I use my left hand to roll down the window and I kept my driver’s license, insurance and title on the passenger seat when one was sitting there. If so, all of that stuff was in a large ZipLoc bag taped to my dashboard.

My worst experience with cops was one day leaving my job in Merrionette Park, IL and being pulled over by at least six squad cars from all directions. Even the two policemen that guarded the store’s parking lot when I was out bringing all of the carts in were involved. A high ranking officer made me get out of the car and walk toward the cemetery fence and I was surrounded by all of them listening to the same, tired racist talking points. They told me to go work in my own neighborhood and I replied “I am!” So they warned me to get a transfer to a “N” word store or I’d really regret coming back to their village. That next day, I quit Dominicks!

I’ve never had a problem with any Chicago police officers, even in my drinking days. It’s always outside of the city limits. Oh yeah, I’m very smart about not going into areas that are known for hating all colors except for their own. Some call me a punk bitch for that, I call myself safe! I can’t fight more than two people at once. It’s also O.K. to thank cops for their service when you walk by them. All police aren’t -sswipes! Just like all blacks aren’t thugs. Hopefully, Police Reform will come about in a timely way.

You can follow Marcus “Mixx” Shannon on ALL social media platforms

Additional links:
http://www.traxrecords.net
http://www.traxparty.com
https://www.youtube.com/c/traxrecordsofficial
https://marcusmixxshannon1.bandcamp.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

TV/Dance: JOHN-DERIC MITCHELL

Posted on by GO BANG MAG

John-Deric Mitchell was born and raised in Chesapeake Virginia. It was at the age of seven that his mother got him involved in an all-black performing arts company called Center Stage in Norfolk, VA. There, he learned all styles of dance from Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern and African, along with Acting, Singing and Music Appreciation. It was a year later that his mother heard about another company that was doing even bigger things called Hurrah Players. There he did musicals and shows every weekend. It was at the age of nine that his mother got him into modeling at Barbizon Modeling School in Virginia Beach, VA. This was when he landed his first big commercial, which was for Oscar Mayer Bologna. It was there that his life in entertainment was born!

By the time John-Deric was in high school, he wanted to lay low from his dance background and focus on being a teenager. That was short lived because in his sophomore year he tried out for the cheerleading team and became the first African American male cheerleader in the Chesapeake Public School system. Yes, he was teased and taunted for being himself. By his senior year he had won Prom King and it too really didn’t go well. Still to this day, the school doesn’t even recognize him for starting the trend of “being whatever you want to be, just as long as you do it with heart.”

By college at Norfolk State University, John-Deric found a new love and that was Hip-Hop. Though he had a three year Cheerleading scholarship and was studying Physical Education, it was his love of dance that was taking off. He started in a group called VA-All-Starz that took him from dancing at black college fashion shows, to opening major concerts, all the way to backup dancing with music artists from VA. It was his junior year that he heard about an audition for BET Planet Groove in Washington DC. He booked the job and became a regular on the show. He was asked by a lot of the music artists to be their dancer when they came to VA, but John-Deric wanted to travel the world. They said “Oh, we have NY and California dancers who do that.” So that following year, John-Deric packed his bags and moved to NYC.

New York City, the place of dreams and magic, can also be rough and tough, but all of it makes you stronger. It was 2000 and his first big gig was to perform in China for 5 months. It was amazing to be able to dance all styles of dance every night. Once back in NY, he found work as an elevator operator. In 2002, John-Deric was let go from that job, and in the same week he booked his dream job, which was dancing backup for music artist Lumidee. He was offered to travel the world with her for a year. It was great times until one wrong move, which damaged his knee. He thought this was the end of his career as a dancer. He took six years off, before he trusted his leg again.

His next big audition was for the Legendary House of Ninja, where he is still currently a member. He also joined two cheer teams, Cheer New York where he’s a gold medal winner for the Gay Games 9, and Gotham Cheer. He still does backup dancing for artists when they come to town in NY, but for work he’s a Personal Assistant to Kenya Moore of the Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA.) He’s also a cheerleading coach for middle and high school’s in Brooklyn, NY. That’s just half of him. He’s a featured background actor on FX’s “Pose” and is on other major TV shows. He does print modeling and commercials for PlaySure NYC and the 2020 Census. He is currently working on a YouTube reality show called “Social Lingua”, which is coming soon.

There’s so much more to come of this young man. Keep your eyes out for him!

GO BANG! Magazine: You act, sing, dance, model and cheer. What is it about performing that attracts you, which of your talents you like best, and why?

John-Deric Mitchell: Correction (lol) I act, dance, model, cheer…no singing. But, I can lip sing as if it was me. My voice, I’m so terrible, but we never know what the future holds!
What attracts me to Performing? I love to see and hear the audience reactions on how it touched someone’s heart in such a positive way. If it gave me joy, I want them to feel the joy, times 10!!

I enjoy acting out of all my talents. It’s my way of being the opposite of who John is. I get to be a different character. I get to be a singer, when my agent says, “play with it…don’t sing out loud!” (lol!!)

GO BANG! Magazine: Being a trailblazer, as the first African American male-cheerleader in the Chesapeake Public School system, you received some negative backlash. Kids and teenagers can be so cruel. Please explain to our readers how the teasing and bullying affected you, how you dealt with it, and how you overcame it.

John-Deric Mitchell: The teasing and bullying affected me a great deal growing up. There were many days and times that I would come home crying and beat myself up because I didn’t fit in with the other guys from my hometown. I wanted many times to end my life of the pain that I was receiving every day. I was constantly being told I wasn’t worth much of anything because I was a waste of a black boy who didn’t play basketball, football, baseball, or dress in baggy clothes. I took pride in my appearance, loved to dance, and got along great with all the girls in school.

I dealt with it by the help of my best friend in the whole world, my mother. She would have long talks with me until I understood that yes, I was very different. But, my being different is what’s going to help me in my future, because I was in touch with my male and female side. That puts me above others in my school. They didn’t know it, but it showed in my entertainment world (my safe place to be me, with no judgement.) Iit was because of that, so many wanted me to stop, because now I’m learning how to achieve my goals and dreams.

I also had to quickly learn the power of a comeback. I had a guidance counselor in high school tell me, “I think you should stop dancing and do more with your hands, like work on cars.” My comeback was, “The only thing I’ll do with my hands is clap and snap my fingers to say 5,6,7,8!” She looked at me and said, “Wow, we’re done here” and once she saw how alive and electrifying I was on the cheer team, she walked up to me and said, “Wow you really have something here. You’re good at what you are doing!”

I overcame a lot of it by not listening to what others had to say and trusting my gut feelings and my faith in God.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your acting and dancing skills have taken you far in the entertainment industry. It’s booked you gigs with famous entertainers and gigs on TV. Please tell our readers about FX’s groundbreaking show “Pose” and your role on the show.

John-Deric Mitchell: Yes, Pose on FX has definitely been a blessing and I thank everyone involved for making the experience so beautiful and magical for me. I can’t wait to get back on set for Season 3. It stems from the documentary “Paris is Burning” from the late 80’s-90’s Ballroom scene and the lives of five beautiful transgender women and their day to day lives and the people they meet along their journey of acceptance in the world. My role on Pose, I’m a featured background actor in all of the ballroom scenes. My character changes as the episodes go. I start out as a young 19-25 year old man in short shorts, to dressing in drag, to becoming a full on Glam Girl by the end of Season 2.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve been involved in LGBTQ campaigns and several LGBTQ shows. Why is being involvement in LGBTQ issues so important to you?

John-Deric Mitchell: The LGBTQ issues are definitely my issues because growing up I didn’t see men like me out in the forefront. Being that I am a Man, Black, Gay and Married, I am very needed to be seen and represented. Not only for the young generation, but for the guys my age and older who were too afraid to be themselves and show their faces.

GO BANG! Magazine: Hollywood mostly show gay black men on TV and film in a stereotypical way. They’re usually finger snapping, flip mouth, sex-crazed queens, wearing high heels. What do you think about this depiction of gay black men?

John-Deric Mitchell: RuPaul said it best: We are all born naked and when we get dressed we are all in drag! For some of us, it’s our way of survival. People who have little understanding of the culture would think that’s what gay men are all about and that’s not the case for every gay/bi man. Some men get dressed like this for their jobs, some are battling to take the next step of becoming transgender, and some men love the fashion and the fit of the clothing on their bodies. I say, “to each their own!” This is not everyone’s way of lifestyle.

GO BANG! Magazine: There are many people that are not aware of “Houses.” You’re currently a member of the Legendary House of Ninja. Please explain to our readers what “houses” are and what you do as a member.

John-Deric Mitchell: So, “Houses” within the ballroom community nowadays, is not an actual home that you live in, although we lookout for one another if you need a place to sleep or stay for a few days. A house is a group of LGBTQ members like a frat/soro, within the community, who come together at a dance studio or someone’s house to work on their specialized categories to battle against others in the community, called a Ball. They battle in different categories such as voguing, runway, new way, old way, face, trans realness, and best dressed.

I have been in the House of Ninja for over 11 years now. I’m considered an elder, but I’ve been in the community for 23 years. Now that’s legendary! As a member, I help with supporting the new members, be it to help choreograph, talks, go shopping for their looks, to walking them up on stage, and with social media by posting positive feedback and reviews about what our house is doing these days and coming!

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re a member of two cheer teams. How has the cheerleading industry changed from when you began up until now, as far as the acceptance of male cheerleaders?

John-Deric Mitchell: I’m a Cheer Coach for two schools in Brooklyn NY, a middle and high school.
Cheerleading has changed a lot since I started over 25 years ago. The stunts, they are bigger, faster and higher. Everyone is so much stronger. It has become more acceptable for guys to be on a cheer squad than it was back in my years. I’m so proud of the doors that have opened for men.

I use to dream of the day I could perform at a NFL or NBA game. Yes, I went to the auditions here in NYC and they would tell me this is only for women, but you are more than welcome to stay and take this as a free class. Heartbroken, I continued on my path to join Cheer New York and now Gotham Cheer. If you look now, guys are doing it and are loving the support of being on these NFL cheer and dance teams! I’m proud to say, I know one of them!!

GO BANG! Magazine: Your “9 to 5” is being the Personal Assistant to the Real Housewives of Atlanta’s (RHOA) Kenya Moore. How did you get that position and what exactly do you do?

John-Deric Mitchell: Yes 9-5 or 7-11 (lol). I was blessed with this job through my good friend from college. He is Kenya’s hairstylist here in NYC. She said that she needed a Personal Assistant in NY. He told her that he already has someone in mind and remembered that I was an Intern Assistant for Blackstreet, back in college. He called me and asked if I would like a job working with her for Celebrity Apprentice. I said “Sure! Do I need to send her my headshot and resume?” He said, “No, she already Googled you.”

She called me on a Sunday evening asking me if I would like to work with her, but before she hired me, she put my skills to the test. Once I found out all the information that she needed within an hour, she said, “Oh, you got the job!” Now, seven years in, she’s like family to me. I know what she needs, wants and don’t need. I do a little bit of everything for her and her family. She has definitely become my big sister, but most of all, she’s a great boss!

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re currently working on a YouTube reality show. Can you give our readers an exclusive about the premise of the show and what to expect?

John-Deric Mitchell: “Social Lingua” is a YouTube reality show coming out soon. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it has stopped most of production. The show is based on eight LGBTQ artist, and the ups and downs of their career, friendships, love lives, talents, drama and why they are who they are!

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

John-Deric Mitchell: The Coronavirus has thrown us all off, especially here in NYC. I’m a man who loves to work, and to be told work has ended until further notice is a hard pill to swallow. On the bright side, it’s an early Spring break, but to not go anywhere or to be around people makes life so scary. I’m making the most out of every day by working on my skills as an actor, dancer, cheer coach, and how to give back to the world, not just my community.

Now, if I can help one person smile, laugh, or hear them say “thanks for being you” during this time of confusion, then I know I done the work of God, by helping his people heal.



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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Music/Radio/TV/Film: DJ LORI BRANCH

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Lori Branch is a Chicago native that began her life-long affair with music in 1980 as the DJ for a Chicago-based, social club named Vertigo. Vertigo, founded by Eric Bradshaw, Craig Loftis and Steven Moore hosted dozens of teen parties from 1980-1984 in such iconic locations such as Sauers, the Loft, the Penthouse, Aragon Ballroom and McCormick Place.

As a solo artist, Lori has held residencies in numerous Chicago clubs, played opening sets for several recording artists such as Michelle Ndegeocello, Lauren Hill, Arrested Development, Tribe Called Quest and others. Lori has co-produced music for several independent film projects in addition to writing and producing television and film projects such as Kevin’s Room, 40th:The Story of Roberts Temple and the Rap-it-Up Chicago series.

Seen by many as a pioneer DJ in Chicago’s House music scene, and one of (if not the) first women to grace the decks as a DJ and promoter, Lori is featured in a number of documentaries, magazine articles and television specials. Lori views her love of all music as a “life-affirming, artistic extension of me.”

She currently co-hosts the Vintage House radio program on WNUR 89.3FM Evanston Chicago and WNUR.org and is a board member of The Modern Dance Music Research and Archiving Foundation. Lori is a mom, wife, sister, daughter, niece and cousin.

“My family keeps me grounded in truth. My music keeps me moving in all the right directions.”

GO BANG! Magazine: When and how did you first get started as a DJ, and what did you like about it?

DJ Lori Branch: I started DJ’ing in 1980, shortly after graduating from Lindblom High school. I was asked to consider DJ’ing because I was a regular club kid at the Warehouse and my best friend, Jean Pierre Campbell, was an avid music collector. Jean and I would scout the city looking for the records we heard at the Warehouse, and along with our own love of punk, rock and R&B, we amassed a good collection. My high school buddy Eric Bradshaw invited me to attend a party that he and his social group Vertigo, which also included Craig Loftis and Steven Moore, were throwing at a club called the Loft. The Loft, located in Chicago’s south loop, was a popular space rented to youth social clubs. My jaw dropped to the ground when I arrived on the night of his party when I heard the DJs (Wayne Williams and Tony Hatchett) playing songs I heard at the Warehouse and other (predominantly) gay clubs (I was only 17, so I was sneaking into most of these). I told Eric that I wanted to join Vertigo so I could be part of creating this energy and he told me that I would not only join but that Jean, Craig and I would be the group’s DJs. After a widely successful Vertigo party at another popular spot called Sauers, we bought a trunk-full of equipment and I dove headfirst into learning. I caught on quickly with the help of Louie (Jose) Gomez who taught me, Jean and Craig the basics. We spent many nights in my bedroom or in Craig’s basement practicing which was incredibly important because mixing rock, punk, R&B and disco was difficult as music was not time synched, no long intros or breaks and almost all was live instrumentation. It took a lot of practice and I remember so many of those early mixes because when you found something that worked you did it over and over. We did a lot of basement gatherings and then were thrust on stage. I think my first big party was a battle with about 500 kids in attendance. It was crazy.

What I loved about DJ’ing was that for most people in the world, mixing was still a relatively new art form and the idea that you could play for hours with no breaks, create a trance-like state for dancers, sweat your clothes off, smile and laugh all night and be passed out the next day from sheer exhaustion was the best. It also gave me an amazing platform to break out of my shyness, model fashionable clothes and meet tons of cool people, many of whom are like family to me to this day.

GO BANG! Magazine: While pursuing your DJ career, you broke down a lot of barriers that were up against women. You were literally one of the first female DJ/Promoters in Chicago. Please describe to our readers how you felt at the time, when you were trailblazing a path for women DJs/Promoters.

DJ Lori Branch: When you are doing something that others find significant you do not often know at the time that is what is occurring. Such was the case about being a female DJ in a field of males in the early 80s. I was aware of that it was unique but did not really focus on it much. We were just kids trying to have fun and make some money. I would occasionally get, “where’s the DJ?” or “You’re the DJ?!” when setting up my equipment, but I think I was unfazed. I knew that I could play just like anyone else. I won some battles, had great nights and some not great nights – just like any other DJ or promoter. I was lucky to have folks like Wayne Williams, Craig Cannon and Craig Loftis who always pushed me out and encouraged me.

GO BANG! Magazine: In the past, female DJs were more of a novelty, and not taken as serious as their male counterparts. Do you think that image has changed and why or why not?

DJ Lori Branch: Definitely! Women DJs are everywhere, and it is amazing to see the kind of respect women are getting because of their skills.

GO BANG! Magazine: As a resident of Chicago, the home of House music, you are recognized as one of the pioneers. What influence, if any, do you feel you have brought to the House community and how has House influenced you?

DJ Lori Branch: I take my place in this community as a responsibility to show up and model love. I hope that is a positive influence on those who might attend a party, watch or listen to my shows or follow me. I am on a mission to sow peace, presence and humanity. I can be a little catty sometimes to add some spice to the shows, but it is usually done in humor, as I also think we can take ourselves a little too seriously sometimes.

The people in this community, my friends, family, the dancers, the promoters, other DJs, and artist have influenced me in immeasurable ways. When I see women like Nakiya Solkat confidently building her production empire, I am humbled to be in the company. So many in our community work so hard to bring the community together and to attract so many to something we have loved for so long. I also appreciate how there is such strong and growing interest in the origins of house music. I feel lucky to have been there when things kicked off here in Chicago. I have a friend Honey Dijon who is a DJ, producer, fashionista and businesswoman, and who happens to be one of the most influential women DJs in the world. I remember her being one of those kids who looked up to us young adults and I understand why what we did (especially the women) was so important. And now, she is my shero and inspiration. Funny how that works.

GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years, you morphed from being only a DJ. You’ve accomplished great success as a film and television writer and music producer. Please tell our readers how you got started in that, what you like about it, and if you plan to do more writing and producing.

DJ Lori Branch: I dropped off the Chicago DJ scene from about 1985-1991 to finish school and to pursue music production in a more serious way. I graduated from Columbia College in 1988 with a liberal arts degree and a concentration in Arts and Media Management. While at Columbia, I met filmmakers and many creative artists that helped me expand my vision. I lived in New York City and LA where I was moved by the horrifying effects of the crack and AIDS epidemics to do more. When I moved back to Chicago in 1991, I started DJ’ing again but this time I was motivated to address these larger social issues. I also lost several close friends to AIDS which was devastating. These experiences translated into writing and producing shows for cable television, PSAs and movies. I started out with as a producer on CAN TV and hosting the program Hotline 21 which allowed viewers to call in and ask live questions about AIDS. This served as a catalyst for my next project entitled “Rap It Up.” The show incorporated DJ elements, hip hop performances and interviews with community leaders about issues teens where experiencing in this increasingly complex time period. Gun violence, sex and STDs etc. were where we place our focus, but music was a through line. These efforts evolved into more projects like public service announcements and a film series entitled “Kevin’s Room.”

“Kevin’s Room” was conceptualized over a snowy day lunch in the basement of the board of trade building with my friends Jean Pierre, Karina Glover and Janice Layne. The initially one-hour film spurred two sequels from 1999 – 2006. The films were shot entirely in Chicago with professional actors and on a shoe-string budget. The drama centered on Kevin, a gay social worker, who convened a support group for black gay men. Each character was complex and dealing with frequently stigmatized issues in our community, such as living with HIV, being a bisexual man, condom usage (or the lack thereof), religion and monogamy. The movies were broadcast on UPN and WCIU, screened in dozens of film festivals and gained a large following. I worked with Blackcat Productions and Karl Productions on the overall production and I served as the Executive Producer and writer. The films can be seen online.

I love to participate and produce films and documentaries and have done others such as the story of Roberts Temple in Chicago. This film is about my great-grandfather Bishop William Mathew Roberts. He was the first Bishop to bring the Church of God in Christ to Chicago and was a leader in COGIC’s early days. The Church is special because it birthed so many amazing artists, was the first Church in Chicago with a live radio broadcast and is frequently featured in black history as it held the four-day funeral for slain teen Emmett Till. I plan to produce more just need to find the time to do it. And, my next production will be about House Music!

GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to that, you also currently co-host the “Vintage House” radio program on WNUR 89.3FM. Please describe when the show began, what the show is about, and why you feel the show is important.

DJ Lori Branch: We are celebrating the 5th year of the WNUR Vintage House show. The show was created as an outgrowth of activities associated with the Modern Dance Music Research and Archiving Foundation. The show was created by my friend Lauren Lowery who is also a Northwestern alum. Lauren had her first show on WNUR in the late 80s when she was a student. Our vision is to capture as many voices of Chicago House music experience as possible. Originally, we were just doing it for the listening audience and to archive the shows, but everything expanded a couple years ago to the FB live format. Facebook live opened the show to thousands more. It has also given me a chance to have a different role in the community as a historian and truth seeker.

I think the show is critically important to present both biased and unbiased accounts of this genre and the culture. We have all seen a lot of documentaries, articles and interviews that each try to capture some part of the story, but they almost always leave out importance people, places, and events. My job as producer and host is to dig deeper and go into the stories that don’t see as much light – and there are so many. As the historian, Lauren also tries to flesh out the timeline of where House Music began, who were the key players, what were the songs, venues, high schools, communities and all of the framing that made it a uniquely Chicago institution. Kevin McFall also hosts the show and he likes to take a more philosophical approach to his interviews by getting underneath the motivations of our guests. Every story is so valuable, and, like a puzzle, we need ALL of the pieces.

GO BANG! Magazine: In order for the House genre to flourish, it must be documented and passed on to future generations. Please explain how being a board member of The Modern Dance Music Research and Archiving Foundation achieves this goal.

DJ Lori Branch: The Foundation’s goal is to close the gap between the scholarly exploration of the history of the genre and its’ transformative impact on the world. We also aim to preserve and celebrate the lives and stories of our community. That the Foundation exists is critical and my role is to help figure out how we fit into and support the larger picture of dance music history in Chicago. We hope future generations will know, understand and fully appreciate Chicago’s unique contribution to House Music.

GO BANG! Magazine: In 2015, DJ SolKat established the “Queens of House Picnic.” How does it feel to see the seeds that you planted years ago, currently sprouting and prospering in the House community?

DJ Lori Branch: I am so amazed at the success of the “Queens of House Picnic” and simply love, respect and have deep admiration for DJ Solkat. My whole family (siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, etc.) now support the event and it is arguably one of Chicago’s best summer events. I love it and look forward to the 2020 picnic. It feels great to see this space grow and to see so many fans supporting women artists. It is something I could have only dreamed about years ago. I know it takes a lot to bring that kind of line up and infrastructure and to make it free for folks is amazing. I hope to bring attention to the fact that this event will need the communities support in many ways, and I pledge to be among those that do so.

GO BANG! Magazine: Are you currently working on any new projects or would you like to mention anything that you’d like our readers to check out?

DJ Lori Branch: I am continuing to work on the Vintage House show and DJ. I post a lot on Soundcloud and will do live shows on Wednesday night around 10pm. I am also working on a production projects with my pal Craig Loftis and make a guest vocal appearance in his latest release Social Distance. It’s really a banger!

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

DJ Lori Branch: This pandemic is so heartbreaking and like everyone else I am trying to keep myself and my family healthy. My wife and I are both working in administrative roles in the health industry so we can work from home. We have an 11-year-old daughter who is also here along with our two cats and one dog. So, the house feels full which is nice. Staying in touch with friends and family has been great to help keep everyone connected and sane. I am also spending a lot of time organizing. My office has never been so neat before. I also have parents in their 90s, so we are doing our best to look after them as well. Mostly, I continue to pray, give to those in need and support everyone as much as possible. I do believe we are in this together and together we will be stronger when we emerge. Importantly, there is no better time to share music with everyone, so I am recording more and really enjoying all of the live streams each week. Let’s just keep the music going and we will all be okay.

GO BANG! Magazine: I’m so proud of you cuzzo!

Tune in to VINTAGE HOUSE on WNUR 89.3 FM or follow on Facebebook @VINTAGE HOUSE on WNUR 89.3 FM



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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Comedian/Actor/Producer: DAMON WILLIAMS

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With 25 years in the industry, Damon Williams is a former Subway sandwich shop owner from Chicago, IL who began his comedy career at All Jokes Aside Comedy club. Damon’s previous television appearances include BET’s Comic View dating back to 1994, including his own one-hour special. He’s been featured on BET LIVE, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, The Tom Joyner Sky Show on TV ONE, and HBO’s P Diddy’s Bad Boys of Comedy.

The Funny Man from Chicago even hosted several episodes of the legendary Showtime
at the Apollo, following seasoned host & TV star Steve Harvey. In 1999 Damon performed for over 300,000 fans as the opening act for the highly successful Kings of Comedy Tour, establishing him as one of the elite comics in the nation.

Internationally Damon is a fan favorite in the Cayman Islands and has made regular appearances in Canada with stops in Vancouver, Montreal, and Edmonton. Damon has even been featured on The Real Deal Comedy Jam, which airs in the UK. Monthly comedy shows for the House of Blues came were the result of one appearance on the Jenny Jones Show. He was contracted to write, perform, and produce over 50 episodes. His material is universal and there’s something for all ages. His popularity has provided him the opportunity to work with some of the biggest stars in the business such as Aretha Franklin, Pattie Labelle, Luther Vandross, Ray Charles, Harry Belafonte, Chris Rock, James Brown, Jamie Foxx, Little Richard, and even President Barack Obama – where he served as host for a campaign brunch.

You’ve also seen Damon recently on tours and shows such as Host of HBO’s Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest, The US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, the Cedric the Entertainer Revue, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Martin Lawrence’s 1st Amendment, Comics Unleashed, Black Pack Comedy Tour, Laughin’ on the Outside – Cryin’ on the Inside, most Funny Bone & Improv Comedy Clubs nationwide and maintains his monthly showcases in Chicago for Funny First Mondays. He’s caught the acting bug with starring roles in films Not Another Black Movie, lead in Heaven on Seven, and also an appearance on the Bounce TV sitcom Grown Folks. Damon is keeping Chicago on the map as co-owner of Riddle’s Comedy Club where he’s providing a stage for new and veteran comedic talent. With his life motto of “Don’t Stop and Don’t Quit,” Damon previously held the “Funny Chair” seat as co-host on the legendary nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show, and is seen consistently on Chicago’s #1 Day Talk Show, Windy City Live.

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

Damon Williams: I grew up initially in Woodlawn during the TWO movement during the late 60s early 70s. We moved to what’s now Brainerd area, but it was part of Beverly until Black families moved in. They rezoned our block out of Beverly. We moved there in 1973, one the first Black families on the block. My mother lives there still

GO BANG! Magazine: When did you know that you were funny?

Damon Williams: I guess I thought I was before I ever hit the mic. I’d say I knew I was once people laughed at my first real performance at All Jokes Aside, where I got my start. It was Open Mic Wednesday, hosted by Adele Givens. I went from an OpenM ic guy to the host of that Wednesday night when she blew up and left, which was about one year after my first time ever!
GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get started in comedy?

Damon Williams: I got started at All Joked Aside. That was the premium, Black owned comedy establishment in the country. It was an upscale, professional club with A-listers and soon to be legendary comics. It was like going to a Comedy University every weekend. I made great connections being there. Lots of opportunities followed, including my first network cable appearance on Comedy Central’s “Comic Justice” hosted by AJ Jamal. After only six months of open mic and local gigs, Comedy Central came to my home club, All Jokes Aside, to film the show. This show was executive produced by Sinbad and his brother Mark Adkins, with Andre Wiseman. They gave me my first tv shot. I kept rolling from there!

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your style of humor?

Damon Williams: My style of humor has no type I could speak of. I’m a multifaceted performer at this point in my career. I combine spontaneity with prepared material, which derive from life and also my imagination and perspective. I love it when I’m inspired to say or do something off the cuff and the crowd erupts in laughter Especially if its ad lib or a reaction to something in real time. That’s when it’s the best, when the audience knows I couldn’t have had that line or story prepared because I’m doing improve, based on what just happened in the room.

GO BANG! Magazine: What do you think sets you apart from other comedians?

Damon Williams: I think each seasoned comedian has a unique voice, not only vocally but point of view That true voice sometimes take years to find. I’ve found mine, and it’s genuinely me. So that’s what set us apart, our individual way of expression.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve done some acting as well. Are you still pursuing that area of entertainment?

Damon Williams: Yes. I think I have the bug as far as acting is concerned. I’ve had several nice roles on independent projects. Two with Chicago’s own B Cole, a comedian, actor, screenwriter and director. He’s a visionary with a genius comedic mind. He trusted me with the lead in his film Heaven On Seven with Terri J. Vaughan and a slew of Chicago talent. I hope it gets major exposure. It’s a good story that we did a pretty good job of bringing the characters off the page. More to come! I have Gill Talent on my team now they are sending me out for more roles.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re a business man as well. You have branched out, doing more than just comedy. Tell or readers about other business ventures that you’re involved with.

Damon Williams: I executive produced a stand up series, “Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams” due out soon, and one new streaming network launching soon. I’d say more, but with the uncertainty of the entertainment industry and the world at large, with this wicked crisis we’re facing. I was also a partner in Riddles Comedy Club, but again these things are in limbo until normalcy returns. Hey, I may be starting a new enterprise…selling weed or something, if this damn virus doesn’t cease soon. I’m now researching ways to change or add a new revenue stream and income that doesn’t rely on mass public gathering. That’s the world ahead for a while, beyond this crisis

GO BANG! Magazine: What are you currently working on at this time, that you can tell our readers to be on the lookout for?

Damon Williams: As previously stated “Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams” first season is done with 24 multicultural and international comedians from a wide array of backgrounds. It’s going to be epic when it hits. Additionally, I have a small part in Mark Harris’ latest film entitled White People Money.

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

Damon Williams: I’m so concerned about not only the current state this “Plandemic” has us in. I called it that because I feel it was somehow introduced by man. There are diabolical forces in charge of the money and the power in this world. I wouldn’t be shocked if it’s not part of some major plan to create fear and control of citizenry, money and resources. I sound like a conspiracy theorist and I might be. I’m taking it seriously, adhering to the guidelines and plotting strategies for these new “what ifs” in life, based on the virus. I’m remaining cautiously optimistic because I believe there will be greater prosperity on the other side of this. People will want to congregate and fellowship, even more, when it’s allowed. What better way than to be laughing at a comedy event!

All things Damon Williams are available on damonwilliamscomedy.com.
IG @Damonwilliamscomedy

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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Comedian/Actor: BRANDALL “B. COLE”

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In 2002, B. Cole wrote and starred in his first feature length film, A Get2gether, now distributed through Millennium Films and can presently be seen on cable, satellite and Dish networks. A Get2gether has been showcased nationwide in several festivals and it won the Best Independent Film Award at the 2005 Chicago Comedy Awards. In the same year, B. Cole was also awarded the Robert Townsend Award for his sketch comedy show “The B. Cole Show.”

In the summer of 2016, B. Cole wrote and directed his latest feature film Heaven on Seven, starring comedian Damon Williams and actress Terri J. Vaughn.

February 2017, B. Cole released an independent web series written and directed by him titled Man Who Starred in Over 10 Million Movies. These comedy shorts can be viewed on his YouTube channel B-Cole Films, Twitter and Instagram @bcole_films.

B. Cole has captured audiences across the country with his original side-splitting, thought-provoking material. He has toured U.S. military bases throughout Japan and here in the states. His internationally acclaimed signature comical piece, “I’m in Love with a Crack Head”, a satirical love poem, inspired B. Cole to develop the concept into a short film that was debuted May 1, 2017 at www.lrplive.tv.

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

B. Cole: I grew up on the south side of Chicago in the Roseland/Pullman area, where it’s now known as “The Wild Hundreds.”

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get started in comedy?

B. Cole: A year after high school, I decided that I wanted to do comedy. I was confident that I was funny from the jokes and laughs I had with my friends. The first Friday of November in 1991, I went to an open mic of a variety show at The South Shore Cultural Center. I went alone for three weeks, just to get a feel for the crowd, and see how everyone received the comics, outside the musicians, dancers and impersonators. It was the first time I ever attended something cultural like that on that level. Thanks to creator and host Donn Carl Harper for giving me my first shot.

On Black Friday, the night after Thanksgiving, I felt that I was ready. I had my jokes together, nervous, but after my first joke “Hey my name is Brandall Cole and I just finished college, give it up for a young black man finishing college (applause) Well I didn’t graduate I just finished going.” They laughed, and the rest is history.

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your style of humor?

B. Cole: I call my comedy style “Boxcutter Comedy” because if you try to be put in one {box}, my comedy style will get me out.

GO BANG! Magazine: What do you think sets you apart from other comedians?

B. Cole: I think my corky, cool persona. I have a cool delivery of some sometimes corny, over your head jokes. Some comedians just speak what’s on the surface. I speak a lot about topics that I hear and read on social media everyday, all day in barbershops and salons. I wanna take people away from that, for at least an hour, to a Cole world.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve done some acting as well. Are you still pursuing that area of entertainment?

B. Cole: Yes my first professional acting job was an indie film titled A Lover for my Husband in 1992. My last acting job was in a Chicago series called “This is not Chiraq” in 2015. The show lasted for one season that streams now on Inde.tv.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’re a business man as well. You have branched out, doing more than just comedy. Tell or readers about other business ventures that you’re involved with.

B. Cole: I have produced and directed feature and short films, a web series, a sketch comedy television pilot titled “The Cole Boys Comedy Show” with co star Deon Cole. It can be seen on my Youtube channel “BColefilms.”

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to an aspiring comic trying to break into the comedy world?

B. Cole: Study, respect and master the art of comedy, and most importantly have fun.

GO BANG! Magazine: What are you currently working on at this time, that you can tell our readers to be on the lookout for?

B. Cole: Right now, I’m pitching shows to some major networks, I have a stand up performance on a new series called “Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams,” hosted by my good friend Damon Williams himself. I’m also continuing my residency at The Dojo Comedy House in West Hollywood, 7038 W Sunset Blvd, atop the Sycamore Tavern, every Tuesday. I call it “The Comedy Gym at The Dojo” where professional comedians can come workout their material, getting it ready for bigger shows, hour specials etc., without feeling the pressure of being funny as people expect them to be. It’s hard to be a Dave Chappelle and try a new routine in a sold out stadium or on TV.

The Comedy Gym at The Dojo is set up perfect with a small intimate non-judgmental crowd and absolutely NO phone recording. I’ve been into films for so long, I felt it was time to get back in the gym. @comedygym2020 on ig and Comedygymthedojo on FB.

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

B. Cole: Full of faith and praise. I am feeling it take a toll on me, by not getting on stage to have an outlet for myself to relieve stress and cheer up the world. One day at a time though. This too shall pass.

YOU CAN FOLLOW B. COLE ON ALL SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
Website: www.bcolecomedy.com
YOUTUBE CHANNEL LINK:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQpfp8MmaeFVP9SgZB-fj0A

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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Actor/Director/Musician: CHRISTOPHER GREER

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Christopher A. Greer is an actor, known for September Rayne (2017), Mom Told Me (2017) and Confusion 3: Trials of the Gods (2018). He is a musician, screenwriter, actor, director, composer and businessman. He went to Chicago Vocational High School (CVS) as an Instrumental Music major. He received The “Louis Armstrong Jazz Award” and four music scholarships to several colleges.

He began acting in high school in the drama club. He began on network television and feature films at age 16, with Martin Mull, Ruth Gordon and Danny Aielio. He went to Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida majoring in Political Science on a Music scholarship. After college, he continued to act in network television shows and feature films, which include Turks, Barbershop 2, The Lake House, Empire, APB, Fatal Attraction, Chicago Med and The Chi. He has also worked with some of the most inspiring directors and producers in the business, such as Cassandra Bell, Mark Harris, Doreon Johnson, Maurice Eleby Jones, and Cynda Williams.
He also has performed in some of the most prolific Independent movie projects in the Midwest, and in local plays and commercials for Commonwealth Edison, Coca Cola, Goose Island Beer and The Payton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Chicago and all over the Midwest.
He has a passion for feeding the homeless and providing meals and warming goods for the disadvantaged, through his organization, Eureka Charities. He feels, “to ones that much is given, much is expected.” He also owns and operates Gentlemen 2 Cool Cigar Company and Greer Music and Filmworks Studios.

He’s been blessed during his life, and he has to return these blessings to those who need it. He also mentors young men and women with life coaching and career advice.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get involved with “A Sisterhood of Signatures?”

Christopher Greer: Okema Seven Gunn reached out to me about a role in A Sisterhood of Signatures (SOS.) During our conversation, we found out we’re cousins. So, with a little bit of nepotism, I was selected.

GO BANG! Magazine: What about “A Sisterhood of Signatures” attracted you to want to be a part of it?

Christopher Greer: I became really interested after I read the script. I saw that it was a story that needed to be told. We still need cursive writing to be taught in schools.

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your character in the film?

Christopher Greer: My character was a selfish father that bought a sports car, without talking to his wife about it first.

GO BANG! Magazine: How important is it to you, to preserve the art of cursive writing?

Christopher Greer: We all should be using it to sign checks and contracts. It’s just plain pretty!

GO BANG! Magazine: In what ways have you become more involved, behind the scenes, in the film industry?

Christopher Greer: I am a screenwriter myself, a director and score composer, so I am very hands on regarding the film industry.

GO BANG! Magazine: You are also a singer, actor, model and director. Of those talents, which one do you love the best, and why?

Christopher Greer: Wow! Making a call like that is like asking which child you love best. I’ve been singing and acting for most of my life, it’s part of me. Modeling and directing came later. But, if I had to choose, it would be acting. With acting, I can be whoever I want to be. It’s freedom!

GO BANG! Magazine: How long have you been singing and are you currently still performing?

Christopher Greer: I have been singing ever since I could remember. I come from a musical family. My Father played the bugle in the Army, my mother played piano and my brother is also a multi-instrumentalist. Music has been part of my life since birth. I still perform for special events and I still compose music, which I also sing on. I used to have a stepping band, but I broke it up once I started working on my first film. But, I still sing around the house and in the car to sold-out audiences.

GO BANG! Magazine: Modeling in this day and age has changed. As a male model of a certain age, how has modeling changed with the times, which allows older individuals opportunities?
Christopher Greer: With Modeling, it’s great to have opportunities where your look is wanted. Fortunately, my look covers a 20-25 year range. I can shave off my mustache and look like I’m in my forties, then let my beard grow out and look like a distinguished grandpa.

GO BANG! Magazine: For our readers that may not be familiar with the duties of a Director, can you please explain what Directors do and what you find most interesting about that role?
Christopher Greer: As a Director, you are responsible for everything! If you are fortunate to have a full crew, you can designate tasks and duties. Directors set up looks and try their best to nitpick everything, at least that’s what I do. Being a Director is a job for self-proclaimed control freaks, because if you’re not, you’re not going to get the look or outcome you want or expect. The end result, being flawless, is the ultimate goal. We have to be satisfied.

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

Christopher Greer: With this virus going on is a blessing and a curse. Besides the deaths that are occurring, there may be a silver lining. We may to slow down as a human race sometimes. Work, school, and hanging out with friends may come in between interaction with our families. This virus took all that away, unless you are in an essential role. Now, we can hug our children tighter and be there with our loved ones. It was forced, but it IS needed.

I am a Community Service first responder and a Primary Caregiver for my mother, who is terminally ill. I also have a ministry that delivers meals, groceries and supplies to the elderly and needy. If someone needs food, I’m there. If a sick, shut in, elderly person needs someone to pick up their medicine, I’m your man. I stay in when I can, but if I gotta go, I gotta go. I have been blessed enormously by the Lord, so I try to give him glory by helping to take care of my brothers and sisters

GO BANG! Magazine: Thank you and ALL first responders for your service!

Follow Christopher Greer on social media:

Facebook: @Christopher A. Greer
Instagram: @Chrisgreer64
Twitter: @chrisgreer64
YouTube: @Christopher A. Greer

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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Actor: HAROLD DENNIS

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Beginning his acting career in 1997 in Chicago, Harold started with two acting classes taught by the late Okoro Harold Johnson, beginning and advanced acting, studying the Stanislavski Method which ran on Tuesday and Wednesday nights for a whole school year. He repeated the advanced class for an additional six months. Harold, during that time, in February 1998, also formed an acting troupe with twenty-five other actors, whom met religiously on Saturday mornings from 10am to 2pm for a year, in which they actively participated in honing their acting abilities.

He was cast in his first play in June of 1998 as the lead. The play was called “I Was There When the Blues Was Red Hot”. It played at the former Gerri’s Palm Tavern and at colleges. Mr. Dennis performed in one hundred and seventy-one shows, often playing two roles in a show, often signing autographs, on Friday and Saturday nights until June of 2000. There was a 9pm show time, “It was free to get in and $10 to get out!”
His first role in a film came in October 1998, cast as the lead male. It was a Columbia College film directed by Amber Washington. In 1999 he was cast as Ernest in “Impromptu”, which ran for a short period at the former Excalibur Shakespeare Company of Chicago, The award-winning, multiracial, Professional Chamber Theatre in Residence at the Harrison Street Galleries Studio Theatre in Oak Park, Illinois.
His first indie feature film role came in 2001, he was cast as the lead. The film was called “The Seventh” or “The Seventh Stone”, filmed in Louisville, Ky. He had the opportunity to perform at Actors’ Theatre also in Louisville, KY in 2001, in “A Raisin in the Sun” as Joseph Asagai, in which he received applause.
On Wednesday January 7, 2004 he began training with Ted Sarantos, who has been teaching for over 45 years, also in Oak Park, IL, and continues to study with him weekly, to date. October 2004 Mr. Dennis was cast as the title character in the feature film “Pieces Of A Dream”. The film received praise from individuals from all over the planet and Roger Ebert said it was “an extremely interesting film”.

While filming Pyrite (2008), the Chicago, IL-based Harold Dennis earned the nickname “the hardest working man in show business”, a reputation he still lives up to.

In 2011 Harold received training in the Sanford Meisner Acting Technique, levels 1,2,3,4,and 5 which took 15 months to complete, at Green Shirt Studio also in Chicago. For over nine years he has trained and worked as a Standardized Patient for ECFMG, Loyola, Northwestern and The University of Chicago Medical Schools. He serves as a trainer for Future Doc Enterprises.

To date, Harold has taken on many characters. He has performed in over one hundred and twenty-five film productions, including feature films, shorts, commercials, infomercials, training videos, music videos, and television. He has been a member of the “Chicago Actor’s In Film Meetup, is a member of the Chicago Independent Artist Network for six years, Chicago Actors Meetup Group, The Filmmakers In Action and The Chicago Female-Focused Film Meetup Group.
He has volunteered at the Midwest Film Festival, monthly for four years. He facilitated acting workshops at the Bronzeville Film Festival and for two years at The UNA Global Wake-Up Festival of Film, Literature and Creative Arts, and has hosted film screenings during the Black Harvest Film Festival for the past 6 years and was brought on as a member of the Gene Siskel Center’s Black Harvest Film Festival Community Council. Harold sat on the “How To Break Into Film” panel at the Englewood Film Festival in 2012 and 2013.

In 2012 received a nomination for Best Actor for his role in the film “Englewood” from the African American Arts Alliance of Chicago. He has appeared on the red carpet at multiple film premieres and screenings. Films have screened in France, Africa and in many other counties. He has taken on the role of mentor to people wanting to act. His mentors are his aunt (actress) Marian Rolle, (musician/ actor)the late John Watson Sr., Ted Sarantos and the late Okoro Harold Johnson.
In January 2013 Harold reprised his role as Jackie Robinson at the Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration held at the DuSable Museum. Also in January 2013 he was selected as one of RollingOut Magazine’s Chicago’s 50 Most Wanted Men Of Substance And Style.

While filming Pyrite (2008), the Chicago, IL-based Harold Dennis earned the nickname “the hardest working man in show business”, a reputation he still lives up to.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get involved in Acting?

Harold Dennis: When I decided to seriously look into trying out acting, I began doing “background” work. In 1997 I heard an ad on B96 fm radio, saying “Be an extra in the movies.” I signed up and my first gig was as a “featured extra” on the t.v. show “Early Edition”. I did that show a few times and realized very quickly that I wanted to do more. A buddy suggested that I take a class. By August, I started beginning an advanced acting class on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at Eta Creative Arts Foundation. They ran weekly for a school year. By February 1998 myself, along with other actors, came together to form “The Actin’ Up” performance troupe. We worked on honing our abilities weekly for a year. By October of 1998, the play “I Was There When The Blues Was Red Hot” opened at Gerri’s Palm Tavern. I played the main character. I left the show in June 2000 after 171 performances. That’s how I got involved in acting. I jumped in with both hands and both feet.

GO BANG! Magazine: When did you get bitten by the “acting bug” and knew that you wanted to pursue acting as a career?

Harold Dennis: I remember the moment I was bitten. It was August 1998 after that very first class. During the class, our teacher (mentor) Harold “Ocoro” Johnson gave us a non-verbal exercise. I was nervous and sweating with a slight tremble. It was a simple exercise that affected me so much that I said to myself that I was going to do this the rest of my life. I’m still at it.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve played some very interesting characters over the years. What type of characters are you personally drawn to?

Harold Dennis: I’m personally drawn to playing heroic characters. That encompasses protagonists and antagonists, in my opinion. Villains can do good deeds too, right? The characters I’m drawn to gets the audience to empathize and follow the ups and downs of their journey. These characters will get what they want and lose something valuable or not get what they want and gain glory. That type of character I have found to be satisfying for most people.

GO BANG! Magazine: Are you only interested in film acting, or are you also interested in television and stage?

Harold Dennis: Acting in film is my passion. I started off my career saying I wanted to be in movies. Over time I have evolved my thinking. Now I want to have my audience (to) feel. I realized a long time ago that I am one piece in the process of bring a movie to an audience. The first story is what the screenwriter wrote. The second story is what the director makes. The third telling of the story is what the editor cuts together. And the fourth story is what the audience interprets. I have fully invested my time training for 20 years. Sixteen of those years, with Ted Sarantos, have been classes for acting on camera, working to find how I fit in. Now I teach Acting On Camera at The Second City Training Center Chicago, showing other actors how to fit in.

I enjoy acting in Television as well. Stage…community plays demand a lot of time that I am investing in film. I’m busy living the dream!

GO BANG! Magazine: You have worked with, and participated in, various community arts events, where you volunteered your time to causes and events that you believe in. Why is “giving back” important to you.

Harold Dennis: I have gone into schools and talked with our youths about dreams, desires and achievement. I have volunteered with The Chicago International Film Festival. I’ve been a member of the Black Harvest Film Festival Community Council for eight years. I’ve volunteered at the Midwest Film Festival monthly for 11 years, acting as the Volunteer Coordinator for the last year and a half. I’m an Ambassador for the Various Artists Film Festival. I’ve put on free acting workshops at the Various Artists Film Festival, the Black Harvest Film Festival, United Nations Chicago Film Festival and the Bronzeville Film Festival. And I have given online coaching sessions freely. Giving back is important to me because I remember what it felt like to be a novice and wanting the information that would give me an idea of how to discover and pursue my dreams.

GO BANG! Magazine: Do you have an interest in working behind the camera writing, producing, directing movies, tv shows, or plays of your own? (If so, please elaborate. If not, why not?)

Harold Dennis: I have produced, directed and acted in a few projects with my friend Bradford Stevens. We met when we formed the acting troupe back in 1998. He’s an alumnus of Second City, so our pieces lean toward the abstract and comedy. I was the A.D. (Assistant Director) on a short film directed by my friend Edi Mehana called “The Pride”. “The Pride” won a couple of film festivals and it was one of 80 films in 2020 being considered to make the short list for the Academy Awards. We didn’t make the short list but Shorts TV, that distributes the winners and nominees, distributed “The Pride”. It’s like we won anyway. What an honor. I’m currently taking the screenwriting course at Second City. I’ll eventually produce that film.

GO BANG! Magazine: What type of role would really show the range of your acting skills, and have you had an opportunity to play that role?

Harold Dennis: There are a number of films I’m in that show different aspects of range. I have a couple of “demo reels” on YouTube that people can watch to get an idea of what I mean. I did an episode of “Pear Shaped: WBLS” written by El Arthur Bey. It’s on Amazon Prime. It’s just me, in a car for 15 minutes dealing with PTSD and (DWB) Driving While Black. The feedback from the performance is rewarding. I did a short story in the “Paradigm Grey” anthology, created by Chris Adams, called “Reset”. I’m the sole survivor after the apocalypse in search of my last remaining robot nemesis. The project screened a couple times and the feedback again was rewarding. When I say rewarding, I mean the audience mentioning how they were moved by what they saw in my performance. “Paradigm Grey” is close to having a distribution home. I did a series pilot directed by Kenneth Stevenson and Andrew James Bennett called “Rapture”. I played a one eyed recluse living in the forest. The pilot won a Telly Award in 2019 and Kenneth gave me the framed certificate, saying I deserved it for the work I added to the project. To demonstrate range, I use things that I’ve learned over the decades. Range can be developed.

GO BANG! Magazine: What projects are you currently working on?

Harold Dennis: During our current situation dealing with this Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, I’m not filming anything. I have a few projects that I’m waiting on. But I have learned not to talk about films that are not in the can. You can go to YouTube, Google, Amazon Prime and IMDb.com to find projects I’m in.

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

Harold Dennis: Since March 16th, I’ve been in the house, 98% of the time for the last 11 days, since flying home from Florida, in a face mask and rubber gloves. I was wondering if the flight was going to be canceled, preventing me from getting back. UC (University of Chicago) canceled face to face Standardized Patient encounters until they can figure out how we can work with the medical students online. Screenings and other networking events have been canceled. My screenwriting class I’m in is being held online, and so is my Acting On Camera class. I’ve been watching a lot of movies and I’m online a lot of the time. I’m talking more with family. I need to catch up on reading. I’m doing things that I’ve heard are preventive. It seemed impossible to keep “Social Distancing” in the grocery store today. I showered when I got back in. I’m attempting to relax during this “Stay at Home” Order the Governor has ordered.

You can follow him on social media and view some of his film credits by visiting www.imdb.com/name/nm1815557.

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 and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Reality TV/Author: CECELIA ROBINSON

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Reality TV star, Author of “Memoirs of a Bitch”,“Suga” “Confessions of a Street Figure.”, Screenwriter, Core DJ 547 Blogger, BlokClubDjs Official Blogger, Producer/Director of the Chicago movie “Hood Cheaters” and “Hood Cheaters 3.0”, Former Radio Personality and Artist Management, and Owner of Open Mic Productions.

Memorable Quotes: “I feel that being humble is a must…. but mastering how to shut a person the fuck up is a must as well.”
“I pray early and grind late.”

GO BANG! Magazine: What is the name of your show?

Cecelia Robinson: The name of my Show is “Bricks of an Empire.”

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you come up with the concept of the show?

Cecelia Robinson: Coming up with the concept was super easy. I just used my everyday life.

GO BANG! Magazine: What is the show about?

Cecelia Robinson: Bricks of an Empire is about my process of getting my life back together after my release from prison as well as showing me create my movies and books.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why did you create the show?

Cecelia Robinson: I created my show because I got tired of waiting on other people to give me a chance. So I created my own chance.

GO BANG! Magazine: How do our readers see the show?

Cecelia Robinson: The show can be viewed on Amazon Prime in a few weeks.

GO BANG! Magazine: When did you know that you wanted to be an author?

Cecelia Robinson: Being honest, I don’t think there was EVER a time when I wanted to be an author. Believe it or not… my very first book was actually my homework assignment in the GED program.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you know you were ready to write a book?

Cecelia Robinson: I didn’t know. I’m just naturally a descriptive story teller.

GO BANG! Magazine: What inspired you to write Memoirs of a Cold Blooded Bitch!?

Cecelia Robinson: What inspired me to write “Memoirs of a Cold Blooded Bitch” was a letter that I received in prison about one of my daughters. I took two of the sentences and created a whole storyline.

GO BANG! Magazine: What prompted you to title the book Memoirs of a Cold Blooded Bitch!

Cecelia Robinson: Being honest… no other title would do this book justice.

GO BANG! Magazine: What message are you trying to get across with this book?

Cecelia Robinson: The message I’m trying to get across is love all but trust none.

GO BANG! Magazine: Have you written any other books? If so, what are their titles?

Cecelia Robinson: Yes I have. “Memoirs of a Bitch” was my first book. I wrote that in 2007 and my second book is titled “Suga”. That was released in 2010. At the time, I was signed to La’Femme Fatale Publications. Now I’m signed to Freeway Rick Ross Publications.

GO BANG! Magazine: Do you have any other talents besides writing books?

Cecelia Robinson: Actually I do. Currently, I’m a radio personality. I have a talk show called “Trill Talk in the Morning“, that airs Monday thru Friday on YouTube. I’m also a screenwriter. I have two movies being filmed, this coming May.

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to a writer that may be interested in writing their first book?

Cecelia Robinson: Go for it! The hardest part about doing it is thinking that you can’t. Follow your dreams because they do come true!

Go BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has caught the world off-guard. How are you dealing with it?

Cecelia Robinson: I’m writing. Because I know once this is over… there’s success waiting on me!

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.

REALITY TV: Cecelia Robinson’s “BRICKS OF AN EMPIRE”

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Cecelia Robinson is….Reality TV star, Author of “Memoirs of a Bitch”,“Suga” “Confessions of a Street Figure.”, Screenwriter, Core DJ 547 Blogger, BlokClubDjs Official Blogger, Producer/Director of the Chicago movie “Hood Cheaters” and “Hood Cheaters 3.0”, Former Radio Personality and Artist Management, and Owner of Open Mic Productions.

Memorable Quotes: “I feel that being humble is a must…. but mastering how to shut a person the fuck up is a must as well.”
“I pray early and grind late.”

“Bricks of an Empire” is about my process of getting my life back together after my release from prison, as well as showing me create my movies and books.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you come up with the concept of the show?

Cecelia Robinson: Coming up with the concept was super easy. I just used my everyday life.

GO BANG! Magazine: Why did you create the show?

Cecelia Robinson: I created my show because I got tired of waiting on other people to give me a chance. So, I created my own chance.

GO BANG! Magazine: How do our readers see the show?

Cecelia Robinson: The show can be viewed on Amazon Prime in a few weeks.

 

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.

Actor/Author: CYNDA WILLIAMS

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Cynda began a professional life of acting and singing after relocating to New York from her native Chicago. Her debut film MO’ BETTER BLUES directed by Spike Lee, was a critical and commercial success. Blessed with a role that also required singing, her song HARLEM BLUES went #1 on the R&B charts. That film opened the door to her next performance in Carl Franklin’s ONE FALSE MOVE – the true icebreaker for Cynda’s career. This break out independent film appeared on many Best Film lists and Cynda was nominated for the coveted Spirit Award.

Cynda has since appeared in numerous films including: Stewart Wade’s TRU LOVED, John Nolte’s BEAUTIFUL LOSER, Salvador Litvak’s WHEN DO WE EAT, Billy Wirth’s MACARTHUR PARK, P.J. Castellante’s RELAX…IT’S JUST SEX, Darin Scott’s CAUGHT UP and Wesley Strick’s THE TIE THAT BINDS. She has also performed memorable quality television roles including: BET’s HIDDEN BLESSINGS, LIFETIME’S THE COURAGE TO LOVE, HBO’s DOROTHY DANDRIDGE, Oprah Winfrey’s ABC miniseries, THE WEDDING and PBS’ TALES OF THE CITY.

Cynda also sings and acts on stage. She most recently appeared in DREAM GIRLS, THE TALENTED TENTH, LANGSTON IS MY MAN, HOPE RUNS ETERNAL, TWILIGHT IN LOS ANGELES, 1992, MAKE EM’ LAUGH, MAKE EM’ LAUGH: A CHRISTMAS CABARET, and IMMEDIATE FAMILY.

Cynda and Thea Camara, doing business as “Acting Up with Thea and Cynda”, teach acting workshops and classes. Cynda continues creating content – writing screenplays, musicals, and books. She looks forward to bringing her creations to life with the commercial production of these works.

Her current project is Pink Pantie Confessions, a web series, book, blog, and more. Cynda continues to sing, and accept quality roles in film, television and theatre.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you get involved with “A Sisterhood of Signatures?”

Cynda Williams: Okema Gunn and I met at a few events. On one particular event we started talking about the possibility of writing some screenplays together for youth audiences. We lost contact for a bit. When I next heard from Okema, she had an idea for A Sisterhood of Signatures. I thought her idea was an original and possibly beautiful idea for a short film.

GO BANG! Magazine: You not only act in the film, you also developed the script. In what ways have you recently become more involved, behind the scenes, in the film industry?

Cynda Williams: I believe once you’ve enjoyed some success in the entertainment business for long enough, it is imperative to reach back and help others on their journey. I’ve learned a lot over the years so I try to help those that are breaking in. Filmmaking can be a difficult process from development to release, but it can also be the most satisfying experience if done with people you respect. Mentorship is very important. If I can help someone else avoid my many mistakes, I will. I know you learn from mistakes, that is inevitable, but there are some you can avoid with the correct guidance.

GO BANG! Magazine: What about “A Sisterhood of Signatures” attracted you to want to be a part of it?

Cynda Williams: I really liked how A Sisterhood of Signatures gave young ladies a unique option for creativity. I also appreciated its dedication to education. Many people forget to appreciate the trials of our ancestors. Okema reminds another generation how far we’ve come.

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your character in the film?

Cynda Williams: The character of “Mom” set up the drama and started the educational portion of the story.

GO BANG! Magazine: How important is it to you, to preserve the art of cursive writing?

Cynda Williams: Cursive writing is a part of our genetic heritage. It is an art form unto itself.

GO BANG! Magazine: You are a singer, actress, author and producer. Of those talents, which one do you love the best, and why?

Cynda Williams: I don’t love any of my gifts any more than the other. They are all blessings given to me to use when directed. They all bring me joy.

GO BANG! Magazine: One of your most memorable characters was when you first debuted in film, in Spike Lee’s blockbuster movie “Mo’ Better Blues.” You worked alongside two top-notch actors, Denzel Washington and Wesley Snipes. As a fresh new film actor, how did that feel at the time, and what did you learn from that experience?

Cynda Williams: Mo’ Better Blues opened many doors for me in the film world. Spike, Denzel, and Wesley were coming into their own at the time, and willing to teach a newbie like me, the ropes. It was a great time to learn from some very gifted people. I got to absorb the talents of Robin Harris, Giancarlo Esposito, Bill Nunn, John and Nikky Tuttoro, Samuel L. Jackson, Joie Lee, and many others. I was blessed to work with Monty Ross, Ruthie Carter, Ernest Dickerson, Cliff Booker, Terrence Blanchard, Branford Marsalis, and the list goes on and on. Many of these artists are still “bringing it” today. To think that I was blessed like that, in my very first movie will always fill me up with thankfulness.

GO BANG! Magazine: As an actor, what type of roles are you currently interested in?

Cynda Williams: I am open to most roles as long as they are realistic, multi-layered, and saying something.

GO BANG! Magazine: Imagine this…if you had the opportunity to write your own movie or tv show, what would it be titled? Who would you choose to direct it? What actors would star in it?

Cynda Williams: I already have a movie written that I want to produce. It’s working title is Baby Girl. I have a long lost friend, Victoria Mahoney, that I would love to direct the film. She is an amazingingly talented, beautiful soul and I am so proud of her success. All I can say about casting is that I’d want the best actors (in temperament and talent) to be in this family dramedy/action adventure

GO BANG! Magazine: Being a Chicagoland resident, you have worked with and/or know of a lot of Chicago area screenwriters. Why is it important to you to work with local writers?

Cynda Williams: I think it is important to support, encourage, and work with local talent. Chicago is a hub of brilliant creative artists. I’m proud to be a part of their creative endeavors.

You can follow Cynda on her Facebook page: Cynda Williams Official Fan Page, and personal pages: Cynda Will and Cynda Williams, IG is Cynda Will, Twitter @cyndacindy 

 

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.

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