Friday 30 September 2011

BROKEN SILENCE Youth Charity Show - 1 October 2011


Broken Silence
21 Tookey Close
Middlesex
HA3 9UE
T: 07933 423 627
21st September 2011


PRESS RELEASE 

YOUTH CHARITY BROKEN SILENCE HOSTS TALENT SHOW TO RAISE AWARENESS OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE 

A group of young people suffering from the blood disorder, sickle cell disease, are hosting a star-studded talent show in order to raise awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease (SCD) and highlight its devastating effects on the lives of those people who have it. 

The annual Broken Silence talent show takes place on the 1st October at Brent Town Hall in Wembley and will be hosted by comedian Wayne 'Dibbi' Rollins & AJ King from Kiss FM.
Contestants will be judged by a panel of experts including upcoming, funky house artist – Big Man Zest, Realz from So Solid Crew, DJ Gussy of Roots FM, Aicha McKensie, founder of the AMCK dance agency, Andrew Tayo, Founder of UBand and soon to launch UBand TV, and Darren Dixon, Co-owner of Above and Beyond (AAB) talent agency.


Talent show guests will also be treated to some very special guest performances by Realz and Big Man Zest. 


There will be 16 acts in the final show representing various talents including singers, dancers and MCs chosen from the hundreds of auditioning acts from across the UK. 


The talent show is also being supported by U-Band and My Hood. UBand is an exciting digital music media agency helping to shape the UK music industry. UBand will award the winning contestant of each category with a professional photo shoot to help further their professional career. My Hood, a fashion label making a difference to urban culture, will be showcasing their varied designs with a catwalk performance during the event. 


Ellen Wright of My Hood said: 'My Hood has always built our brand on the message that we want people to be proud of where they come from and be positive about where they can get to. Broken Silence embodies all that we believe in - set up by a group of young people (all sufferers of SCD) and helping to fight for the rights of so many people affected by SCD in the UK - we find them truly inspiring. It is an honour to be able to support such a wonderful charity, which does such valuable work within the community and around the country.'


About sickle cell disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder affecting the red blood cells, and is mainly found in people of black and ethnic minorities. It is estimated that in the UK, 12,500 people have SCD. The condition can cause severe anaemia, damage to major organs and infections. Sickle cell is caused by inherited genes that create defective blood cells. People with sickle cell have sickle-shaped blood cells that can build up and cause blockages in small blood vessels, causing severe pain known as sickle cell crisis. Patients may require blood transfusions every 3-4 weeks.

About Broken Silence
Broken Silence is a registered charity founded in 2004 by four teenagers with sickle cell disease in memory of their friend, Leona Dehaney who died from complications relating to the disease. Broken Silence campaigns for the rights of people with SCD.


Nordia James, one of the founding members of Broken Silence was diagnosed with sickle cell at six years old:


“I’ve experienced immense pain throughout my childhood because of sickle cell. I’m regularly rushed to hospital for blood transfusions or injections because of the disease.”
Sickle Cell is one of the most commonly inherited genetic disorders in the country.
The charity has gained the support of a number of celebrities (including Kiss FM, MTV Base and Choice FM stars), community radio stations, well-known singers and stars from the stage and screen including: Choice FM, Unique FM, Roots FM, Shola Ama and her sister Sadie, reggae legend Tippa Irie and ITV’s ‘The Bill’ actor Clifford Samuel. The team is also supported by a number of commercial and community organisations including; Genesis Community Chest, Brent Council’s Harlesden and Stonebridge, Regeneration & Renewal Team and the Jack Petchey Foundation.


Giving blood
Broken Silence would like to urge the public to register with the ACLT (African Caribbean Leukemia Trust) to give blood. Since sickle cell sufferers require regular blood transfusions in order to lower the amount of haemoglobin S red blood cells in the body. When there are fewer sickled haemoglobin S cells in the bloodstream, they are less likely to build up and block blood vessels.


Blood transfusions also increases the number of normal red blood cells in the body, increasing the supply of oxygen to the body.


To purchase tickets for the final show, please visit www.brokensilence.org 


Tickets for final show are £10 for adults and £7 for children. Please show your support.
For more information about U-Band, please visit: http://uband.co.uk/


For more information about My Hood, please visit: http://www.my-hood.co.uk/

ENDS 


To arrange an interview with Broken Silence:


Julia Flint 0207 025 6411
Hannah Stuart 07985 197 374


NOTES TO THE EDITOR


* Sickle Cell is increasing within black communities in the UK. The majority of people who are affected by the disorder are black. 


* People of West African heritage are more likely to be affected with up to 30 per cent being carriers, but even amongst the African Caribbean community eight to 10 per cent are affected. Broken Silence is also calling for more people, especially from the black community to be screened for the Sickle Cell.


* There has been very little research into treating Sickle Cell and sufferers can’t get free prescriptions unlike people with diabetes or cystic fibrosis - also long-term medical conditions. 


* Sickle Cell affects the red blood cells, carry oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Normally red blood cells are donut-shaped and flexible but in people with Sickle Cell their red blood cells become inflexible and ‘sickle’ shaped. ‘Sickled’ red blood cells can’t squeeze through small blood vessels as easily as normal red blood cells, leading to these blood vessels becoming blocked and stopping oxygen passing through the body. The result can be death, damage to organs or severe pain (or ‘crisis’).


* Broken Silence is a registered UK charity founded in 2004 by four teenagers with Sickle Cell Disease in memory of Leona Dehaney, who sadly died from complications relating to the disease. It campaigns for the rights of (mainly young) people with Sickle Cell Disease. Among other activities, produces an annual talent show for dancers, singers and group acts to raise awareness of SCD.



October Lekoliday!

It's been a minute since we had what I like to call a 'Lekoliday'. For those unfamiliar with Mr. Baker, let me explain...


@Lekhemmusic
A 'Lekoliday' is what happens when Lekhem decides he can't do one little thing at a time. He has to come at you with more offerings than a diabolical soul food spread at a family reunion! 


In the case of October 1st, he drops 'Heartache Remix', a feature on Unsigned Hype: Vol. 1 (available at midnight).


Unsigned Hype Vol. 1 will be released at Midnight on Oct 1.


Broken Silence Youth Charity Show 
Eighteen and a half hours later, catch him taking the stage with 15 other Finalists, all competing for the chance to be crowned Winner of the Broken Silence Finals at Brent Town Hall.


Those who have missed seeing Lekhem on the stage will get to enjoy an exclusive performance from the Baker Boy's upcoming second mixtape, 'HipHopology:1stSemester'. Ladies, take note: this one's for you ;o).


Tickets are still available at £10 for adults, £7 for children (with Oyster ID) or, alternatively you can pay on the door. Whichever you choose, just know that your fees are not pocket profit. You're donating to a cause that doesn't have anywhere NEAR enough focus and attention. More than that, you're helping to save lives.


But that's not all...For you long-time supporters, some announcements are coming to match The Raise in your expectations on October 2nd...


For more on the Broken Silence event tomorrow, read the press release here.


Looking forward to seeing you all there, don't forget to come say Hi!


It's almost time to partake in the weekend's Jamerican festivities, somebody pass my crepe crown and crackers...

Sunday 25 September 2011

'iLive Music Presents': 'Soul in the City' MOTOWN SPECIAL!

I'm not even going to fake non-bias on this one.


Three of my favourite things in this world, Music, Themes and what I like to call the 'Notorious iLive Collective', come together as One this Tuesday, for a night that I will NOT be sitting through in silence (apologies in advance to those within earshot)...


Fresh off the back of their HUGELY successful Michael Jackson and Amy Winehouse theme nights recently, where Yours Truly sported thick white socks with black penny loafers and an OTT beehive respectively; my favourite Hostess returns with a tribute to my FAVOURITE musical era EVER, and she's personally inviting YOU to be a part of it...:


iLive Arts bring you yet another themed spectacular...
"Dear Friends


I would like to invite you to "Soul in the City" Motown Special taking place on Tuesday September 27th in trendy Shoreditch hosted by iLive Music


Dont miss this rare opportunity to come and see some of the UK's finest Acts headline on an evening of great soulful music.


Come and enjoy the fun after work & chill out to the sweet sounds of the 70s/80's Soul!






Special Guest Acts.....
Johnny Imobi
Alicks
Bexx
Kimberley Roberts


PLUS SURPRISE GUESTS...INCLUDING A SPECIAL DUET THAT YOU do not WANT TO MISS!


The notorious "iLive collective" house band & host "Nazarene" will be tearing up the stage later in the evening with their eclectic funky Soul sound


Come down early we begin at 7pm Sharp!


We have an open mic section too for those of you who fancy having a sing song with the band! Show us what you got!


Fresh barbeque out back!


Tickets only £7 
Book via Event Elephant - Or £10.00 entry on the door all night!


Call/text to reserve a place


If it's your birthday or a friends birthday we can reserve a VIP area 


Raffle giving away free tickets for our events, a bottle of champagne, plus much more............
Dont miss out!


Nazarene
Venue: www.avalonshoreditch.com
Email: info@iLivearts.com
07771-817828"

View the facebook event page here, or better still, grab your tickets and come down! Who knows WHAT on earth my wardrobe will be this time...


Mx Ugoh (iLive Drummer) & ES
@ iLive Music Presents: 'Michael Jackson - Tribute To A Legend', 30th August
'The Way You Make Me Feel' Baby!!!



#SoulSunday - Relentless MC

Just in case you missed our launch week, let me explain what you missed!


The inspiration for #SoulSunday came from our very own Concert headliner act. So the best thing to do is let her break it down for you...

I called this album My Soul because the music is a more accurate reflection of who I am, than anything else I've ever recorded...When you listen to the individual tracks, one song may not necessarily sound like the other, but each is soulful in its own way, because each one comes from my soul.
(Leela James)


Closing our second spotlight week with this brand new trend, it's the turn of Relentless MC to say a few words directly to all of you, who have spent the week getting to know him that little bit better...


RELENTLESS MC:


Dear Music Lovers, Friends, Fans and Followers...


I'd like to thank all ReverbNation, facebook and twitter friends for every bit of interest concerning Yours Truly.


People continue to be the reason I do music. Hearing your own goals, hopes and dreams, fuel mine. The same way that Music shows no signs of slowing down or disappearing, neither does Relentless.


Peace, Love and Phat Beats,
Rhymin Eternal Lyrics & Embracing New Times Lettin every Spirit Shine.
(aka Relentless MC)


Saturday 24 September 2011

**NEW EVENT POST** Musicalize: Female Takeover, 3rd October, XOYO

They're back to do it again folx! These guys get bigger and better with every single show. Check the website for past reviews (including one from Yours Truly)...Stay Tuned for Competition news on how you can win tickets to one of the best nights in London.
______________________________________________________________________________


PRESS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MONDAY 19th SEPTEMBER
FEMALES ARE TAKING OVER AT THE NEXT MUSICALIZE


Following the successes of their previous live music nights, Double M Entertainment are all set to bring their brand of live music event ‘Musicalize’ back to the capital city on Monday 3rd October 2011 but this time with a little twist. With the official title of the event being Musicalize: Female Takeover, the direction for this live event is clear: each performance on the night will be from a female artist.

So what is Musicalize? Simply put, it is “A night of amazing live music performed by some of the finest unsigned artists in the UK as well as breakthrough artists who are establishing themselves as credible artists in the industry.”

As the name of the event suggests, Musicalize is the perfect opportunity to not only listen to live music but also to socialize and network with a diverse crowd made up of fellow live music lovers and music industry professionals including A&R’s, producers, record label representatives and professional radio DJ’s. Media representation is also a strong feature on the night with professional media broadcasters filming as well as reporters, journalists and well respected Internet music bloggers all on the guest list. As well as this usual music loving crowd this event will also

At previous events held so far, attendees have been treated to an array of musical talent from artists covering all genres including headline performances from the Grime MC Ghetts and RnB sensation Bluey Robinson, as well as artists such as female quartet Vida (managed by Oritse Williams from JLS), Kal Lavelle (currently supporting Ed Sheeran on his Summer Tour), Essex born Leeds based singer Hannah Trigwell (since awarded the St Helier Online Best Unsigned International Act award), Bianca Monet (managed by 1 Xtra DJ Ace) and many others.

To be held at live music hotspot XOYO in Shoreditch, London, the line up for this next event promises to be just as spectacular. Hosted by Claira Hermet (GrimeDaily and Channel 4), attendees will be treated to performances from some of the UK’s top female artists. In keeping with other Musicalize events there will be music from all genres. Attendees can expect to see performances from highly rated and 1Xtra managed Grime MC Lioness who will perform tracks from her new E.P. Roarness, as well as A.L. Bennett (who has featured with a string of top artists on her collaborations EP called ‘Who’s That Girl’). Also performing on the night will be newly formed girl group Beauty Skool Dropouts (aka B.S.D.) whose members include actress and dancer Sacha Chang (Streetdance 3D and Anuvahood). Other performers include: Kyra, Kirsti Robinson, Lily McKenzie, Molly Smitten-Downes and Rebecca Storm.



Headline sponsor for the event is new to the market drinks company, Aspire (www.aspiredrinks.com). Following the launch of their product, which is already being stocked in high end stores such as Selfridges, Holland & Barrett and Waitrose, the company have been keen to align themselves with events that match their current target audience.

PR & Marketing Manager for Aspire Drinks, Laura Wilkes comments regarding the sponsorship: “The twist to this Musicalize event suits the Aspire brand perfectly due to its focus on the female domain and we are excited to be the headline sponsor. Aspire encourages people to lead a healthy and active lifestyle whilst facilitating the confidence to look and feel great and the event will be a fantastic opportunity to promote our brand values whilst working alongside companies such as UK Models who are also sponsoring the event.”

Based on the success of previous Double M Entertainment events and the above line up it is safe to say that the next Musicalize will be another big hit.

~ End ~
Notes to Editors
For interview opportunities or for further information please contact:

Ben Anderson | PR & Marketing Manager | Double M Entertainment
ben@doublementertaiment.com  | 07787 411 345 | Twitter: @DoubleM_Ent / @Ben_D_A

Sophie Horne | Events Manager | Double M Entertainment

For reviews, photos and videos from previous events please visit: www.musicalize.co.uk
For guestlist, email names to guestlist@musicalize.co.uk

Friday 23 September 2011

#FindOutFriday - Q&A with Relentless MC

Now it's the turn of  the only Hip Hip artist in Leela's Lineup to step into the hotseat.

Relentless is not your usual MC. Also known as 'Busker Rhymes', it wouldn't be out of the ordinary to catch this artist providing the soundtrack to your tube journey home. Find out what he had to say when we caught up with him....


Q: Why the name Relentless MC?
A: As a kid I used to watch the TV programme, 'The Fugitive'. At the beginning, I always heard the words "Relentless Pursuit". I didn't know what Relentless meant, but I loved the way it sounded. A few years later, when I searched for a rap name, it stood out for me; especially after realising what it meant.


Also, any true 'rap head' would know that the name of one of my heroes, KRS-One, stands for 'Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone'. I was inspired to find a deeper meaning to my name.


Q: So is your name an acronym as well?
A: Relentless MC stands for 'Rhymin Eternal Lyrics Embracin New Times Lettin Every Spirit Shine'. Which describes everything that I'm about.


Q: What made you decide to become an MC?
A: There are so many good reasons why I rap. Self expression, the love of words and wordplay, the power to inspire and uplift, freedom of speech for all the Voiceless...The power to inspire and uplift. The Black Civil Rights Movement fought oppression for the young Black Man to have a Voice, and have that Voice be heard. These are just some of the reasons...I'm just trying to pass on the messages I picked up when words and music first started to resonate with me.



Q: Which label are you signed to?
A: Believe it or not, I'm asked this frequently; normally followed by a CD request. It's the ultimate confirmation I'm on to something good, as I'm not a signed artist.


Q: What's the number one piece of advice you give to anyone aspiring to follow a dream?
A: I assure them that you can become very good at something you love to do.


Q: What has been the highlight of your Career to date:
A: I would say it probably has to be the mini tour of the Czech Republic (Slovakia). We've all heard the stories and dreamed the dream of tasting that showbiz lifestyle. For me, I never expected to have my first experience in Eastern Europe! I was invited to perform a Country-wide, bar and nightclub tour. No two venues were the same. I found myself mobbed in a shopping centre at one point, by fans who attended the previous night's gig! It was SO embarrassing, but a real eye opener at the same time.


I performed to an audience of over 2000 people, all screaming my name on the last night, That gave me a true insight into life abroad and the appreciation different people will give you...Wow.


Q: Who are your influences:
A: Without scaring anyone off, I have to say GOD. The be all and end all. The reason for everything that exists, especially my beloved rap. The power of music for me is a direct reflection of God working. Nothing in the world moves me more than music, and nothing in this world could be more beautiful than when He created it.


Fan Question #1 Which would you pick, Celebrity or Success?
A: Success every time. Celebrity is a false sense of achievement. Success will gain you everything, Celebrity will fall for anything.


Fan Question #2: What's your opinion on battles?
A: I appreciate the Art, the Power and the Drive. But I can't stand that nine out of ten times, creative Artists are reduced to degrading themselves. That, for sure, isn't inspiring or skillful at all.


Fan Question #3: Who is your favourite Rapper:
A: Easy. Christopher Parker aka KRS aka The BlastMaster aka KRS-ONE. One of the last true emcees; who still holds the culture, history and true goals of Hip Hop at the forefront of what the genre stands for. Rap is something you do. Hip Hop is something you LIVE...

Relentless MC is a part of Leela's Line Up. Catch him supporting Leela James on her ONLY UK date for  her HUGELY successful 'My Soul' Tour, 21 October at The Clapham Grand. TICKETS ON SALE NOW.

Wednesday 21 September 2011

'OPEN INVITATION' to 'STAY': **EXCLUSIVE!**

If you're familiar with Yours Truly, then you'll know I have a disturbing addiction to that little blue bird.

I consider it a problem that doesn't need fixing, as it's brought about monumental changes over the last 21 months that I won't list while there's far more interesting news to share...

On Sunday evening, I happened across a 'Media Call' from someone best-known for fast cars, fizzy pop, electrical currents and the BEST means of bus fare evasion known to Man. Taking a chance with no expectation of a reply, I immediately found myself in an e-mail chain designed to separate the 'wheat from the chaff'. Stubbornly persistent, I played along, but wasn't surprised when the reply deadline passed with no Inbox goodies featuring 'Hollywood Superstar' in the subject field.

Imagine my complete and utter SHOCK then, when the following morning, I followed my BlackBerry's blinky LED, to confirmation of ESP as one of the FEW online reviewers hand-picked by the aforementioned, to showcase the first video from his upcoming album......






The eagerly-anticipated first release under Tyrese’s new Voltron Recordz label is ‘Open Invitation’, and from that personal request comes ‘Stay’...



The raspy-voiced Romeo reunites with 2-time Oscar nominee and close personal friend, Taraji P. Henson for a gut-wrenching breakup tale. Reminiscent of their 2001 'Baby Boy' partnership, the video is a sleek, miniature Hollywood blockbuster within itself. Only this time The Players have swapped 'the hood' for a condo in the Med, and rickety push bikes for spinning-rimmed Phantoms.



Taraji & Tyrese

In the Present Day, our suited and booted Leading Man is still choosing Money over Love.


Whilst the tender is now legal, the cautionary tale of 'Work over Family' is dramatically played out, as Tyrese woefully apologises for neglecting the Homestead in his seductive, gravelly fashion; before snagging that Hero crown by making his Lady an offer she can't refuse...Not because of the money, car or house, you understand, but because the presentation comes in a form that NO right-minded, warm-blooded woman could deny!

Gentlemen of the Nation: 
If ever there was a rule book on 'How to Charm a Lady' (coming from the likes of Tyrese, that has 2nd Bestseller written all over it - more about the 1st later), then THIS, is a visual and lyrical play-by-play...Pen and paper at the ready...



"STAY" (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)




It's been quite the year for the multi-talented Mr. Gibson.

His belt notches include two of the highest grossing films WORLDWIDE in 2011 (the third Transformers instalment, and 'Fast Five' collectively grossed over $1.7 BILLION to date)...

'Transformers: Dark of the Moon'
















...a #6 New York Times Bestseller ('How To Get Out Of Your Own Way')





















...and now a brand spanking new, Independent Record label.





But rest assured; The Voice that inspired many a (female) bedroom bully, and Blessed that red & white drink brand with 0:37 seconds of audible sexual fanfare, has returned to his core talent:

"my FIRST and ONLY LOVE is still MUSIC. I've read you letters, tweets, Facebook, MySpace and emails. I've listened to your voicemails and more importantly, I've run into you in person and you've all wanted me to do it again...So come 11.1.11, my new album - 'OPEN INVITATION' will be launched globally for you to listen, and feel my heart & soul that I put into that album...I wanted to give you an 'Open Invitation' to the clubs AND the bedroom..."
(Tyrese)

'Open Invitiation' will be available via simultaneous global release

Already giving us a taster of each with the utterly disgusting beat on 'Too Easy' feat. Ludacris; I can only advise that when issued with an 'Open Invitation' such as this, Ladies...it would be rude NOT to accept!

Monday 19 September 2011

**DATE 4 YOUR DIARY** SOUNDCHECK 24th October, Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen

I'm familiar with the Spotlyte TV duo organising this event from their HUGELY successful June launch, an event that filled to capacity within 20 MINUTES of the doors opening!


With a 16-name line up and two of the UK Urban scene's favourite female DJs as hosts (returning with one of the #ESPfamily); it's no wonder that the performance circuit has been waiting for a follow up with baited breath.


This time in aid of a well-deserved Charity, the roster is just as strong as the last and the door fee is a STEAL! So SAVE THE DATE and I'll see you there...
_____________________________________________________________________________



Spotlyte TV & Q Presents... SOUNDCHECK - Sounds to Save the World
Fem Fel // Encore // Josh Osho // Luke Bingham // Amplify Dot
A.L. // Lady Leshurr // KOF // In'sight // Deja //Rufio Summers

24th October 2011

7:30pm-1:00am

Venue: Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen
2-4 Hoxton Square // London // N1 6NU

In June 2011 Spotlyte TV brought to you new live music night ''Spotlyte Sessions". With a 16 strong line-up that included Durrty Goodz, Cleo Sol, Marger and Shani Cuppcake, the venue reached capacity in less than 20 minutes and attracted press intrerest on the night from the likes of Link Up TV, Channel AKA, Street Starz Ent, LIVE Magazine to mention a few.

In case you missed it, check out Link Up TV's coverage of "Spotlyte Sessions" here:


Spotlyte TV is back for round two and this time they've switched it up...

OXFAM’S MUSIC FESTIVAL WITH A DIFFERENCE – OXJAM 2011

This next event will be all in aid of the very worthy charity 'Oxfam' with donations and ticket sales going directly to the cause. Oxjam is Oxfam’s month-long music festival. It runs throughout October with hundreds of events around the UK – all organised by people who know and love their local music scene, and all in aid of Oxfam. Since the first Oxjam in 2006, more than 40,000 musicians have played to over 800,000 people at around 3,000 Oxjam events nationwide. Oxjam has raised more than £1.5 million in total!

As well as eleven of the best of the UK's up&coming acts, SUPER DJ Melody Kane (Ministry of Sound / ILUVLIVE) will be on the decks, and BANG FM's LOVELY Lynnike and Sefa will be hosting the night.

Tickets – Early Bird Online - £3.50 (www.soundcheck.fatsoma.com) // - On the Door - £5

For any artist / interviews / press / general enquiries please contact us

All the best,

Tasha Demetriou & Emily Falconer

Directors of Spotlyte TV



 
'Putting the Spotlyte on the BEST UK Talent!'
Spotlyte TV
'Spoylyte TV is an excellent platform for up and coming artists to showcase their talents. They're a pleasure to work with and their knowledge of the UK music scene is vast. I look forward to working with them even more in the future.'
Rachel White, PR

'Spotlyte TV is your one stop shop to keep up with the rising stars of the blossoming UK urban scene. You'll find interviews with key players in the scene as well as the stars of tomorrow!'
Rahul Verma, Metro - The Independent - Mixmag et al



Sunday 18 September 2011

One To Watch: Skylar Grey - Invisible


You may not be familiar with this lady's name (I know I wasn't); but you all know her body of work. She's another of those singer-songwriter GIANTS responsible for hits such as Diddy Dirty Money's ''Coming Home", Dr. Dre's 'I Need A Doctor' and a certain Top 5 chart collaboration between a Bajan beauty and a skilled, yet unsavoury Rapper of a paler hue...

'Invisible' is a message that I'm sure a lot of us can relate to. Grey has caught a bit of flack for one of the visual references that she depicts in this video, but overall, most people understand the sentiment is in support of a powerful lyrical reference. Watch and see if you agree...

#ESapproved

#SoulSunday - MAVERiQ

If you've visited the #ESPpage for R&B Heartthrob MAVERiQ since our launch Monday gone - and I sincerely hope you have, for your own entertainment - then you might have noticed a few trend titles with a difference; most notably the above.


The inspiration for #SoulSunday came from our very own Concert headliner act. I'll let her explain...


I called this album My Soul because the music is a more accurate reflection of who I am than anything else I’ve ever recorded...When you listen to the individual tracks, one song may not necessarily sound like the other, but each is soulful in its own way, because each one comes from my soul.

So with that in mind, enjoy the first of our #SoulSunday Sessions, a note from our featured artist, directly to you the audience...

MAVERiQ:

"I remember when I first got wind of this show, I received a message from Nazarene saying that she was told about me by ES Promotions and was looking for a UK act to open for Leela James. I immediately jumped at the chance, but that was only 'cos I was told it was going to be a massive show, and that I would be supporting Leela James.

The joke is, I only knew OF her by name, so I done a little bit of research and I fully realised who I was going to be sharing the stage with…Wow. Leela James… I was fascinated by this woman's music and to share the stage with her is nothing short of an honour.



I've had a bit of time to digest everything that I've been told and I'm now REALLY excited to be performing on the same stage as Leela, and also an RnB LEGEND in Omar. I'm not gonna lie, it’s scary, but I am SOOOO ready for this!"



Saturday 17 September 2011

Introducing the newest addition to Leela James' 'My Soul' lineup...

Bonnie Freechyld is a singer, songwriter and actress originally hailing from Australia, with English parents and a childhood spent in the Southeast Asian jungles of Borneo.


Honoured to find her soulful recordings had earned her a 2008 finalist nomination for the 1xtra Urban Performing Arts Bursary, alongside the likes of Andreya Triana, The Cock’n’Bull Kid, Double S, Kobi Onyame and more; Bonnie used the experience to fuel her motivation to further develop her craft and increase her network of co-collaborators.


Since then, Bonnie has had the pleasure of working with such respected artists as T.Q (of Westside fame), producer DJ Bunjy (of Bristol reggae outfit Laid Blak), musician and producer Ronnie Douglas (Chaka Khan, Gabrielle, Terri Walker), U.K rappers Sway and AloneStar, UK gold producer Bless Beats, the legendary F.A.B (Fonti & Bushkin formerly of Heartless Crew). 


2010 was spent gigging throughout London with a live band, showcasing her inimitable and ever evolving ‘Bonnie flavour’: a fusion of R&B, Funk, Pop, Rock and Soul.

The year so far has been an interesting one. In between writing for several notable artists and signing her first publishing deal, Bonnie spent time travelling and performing across the globe, from Australia to South East Asia and most recently, New York; all the while gaining new inspiration for her work in progress - a debut album. Also working on a collaborations mixtape for release later this year, in 2012 Bonnie can only kiss the sky.