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Exclusive Interview With Miss saHHara

1) Can you start by telling me a little bit about yourself, your likes, and dislikes?

Like some women, I am actually a ‘girly girl’, who loves fashion, makeup, and high heels. I also enjoy singing, writing songs, doing research, and helping my trans community whenever I can, by using my skills in digital media. I hate discrimination in all its forms. I also hate when human beings have been deprived the freedom to love and the freedom to be themselves.

2) When you were younger, you tried to reconcile your gender identity with religion, and this led you to attempt suicide. How were you able to navigate this reconciliation process; did you end up succeeding or abandoning religion altogether?

Yes, I did! And, after extensive research on religion, I found that religion is plagiarized and reinvented every century to fit the popular narratives of the time. I also came to the conclusion that I don’t need to believe in any deity or follow any particular religion to lead a positive moral life. As human beings, we have an inbuilt capacity to discern right from wrong. Most of the pain, war, hate, conflicts, greed and many more vices in the world today are caused or influenced by religion.

For my identity and my views on life, the transgender identity has been proven by science to have a biological, and indeed a natural, basis. Therefore, it is right for me to be me. Most religions and traditions will say otherwise, though. Hence, I am strongly against religion, but I support spirituality.

3) Nigerians are very religious people, be it the majority of people who follow Christianity and Islam, and the minority who are still traditionalists. More than this is the fact that Nigerians have convinced themselves of the moral validity of homophobia given their religious beliefs. Do you think it is possible to reconcile the rhetoric of religion and LGBT rights in the country?

The LGBTQI+ community has always been embedded within our traditions, mostly in silence, but they were there. The colonization and the introduction of Western/Middle Eastern religions in Africa started the demonization of our community. Research and history have shown that we existed in peace and part of our various cultures. We did not have the popular labels or the understanding of what it meant then, but they existed peacefully. For example, the Yan Daudu of Northern Nigeria contributed to entertainment, occasions, and cooking. Then we have the popular transvestite performer called ‘Area Scatter’ in Eastern Nigeria, who performed for the royal families and the rich.

The anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric is now intensified due to American evangelism in modern Nigeria and the importation of the Wahhabism style of Islam from Saudi Arabia. It is possible for religious people to be tolerant and respectful of people’s identities and sexualities. My mom is a religious woman and she doesn’t judge people, she leaves the judging to her ‘God’. If most Christians followed the teachings of Jesus Christ, they will be more loving and be more accepting like Jesus was; instead of preaching hate, discrimination and passing judgments on the things that they do not understand.

4) Would the fight for LGBT rights move forward if Nigerians are reminded of the colonial history that grounds religion and homophobia in the country?

Some antiquated colonial laws such the ‘Sodomy laws’ introduced by the ‘colonial masters’ are still in play today, in most former colonies. Britain has long moved on and repealed these laws, but they have remained silent on the effect of the laws they left behind in their former African colonies.

I have always said education is the key. But, as the saying goes, you cannot force a horse to a river and expect that horse to drink from that river. Nigerians have to be willing to learn about LGBTQI+ issues, for the process of education to begin. We cannot force them to learn if they are unwilling to do so.

Recently, Nigerian viewers made MultiChoice, a South African based broadcast company, cancel the airing of Caitlyn Jenner and Jazz Jennings’s respective television shows because Nigerian viewers complained that showing trans stories on television would corrupt their children. Since Nigeria is their biggest viewing customer, they canceled the shows, thus depriving other African countries, like South Africa, from learning more about what it means to be transgender.

I am hopeful for positive change within the African community, in the future. But we still have a long way to go.

5) You are a fashion model, beauty queen, and musician. Can you tell me how you use the platform given to you by these mediums to represent and promote the rights of transgender people, both in Nigeria and the world?

I use my hobbies to promote the plights of LGBTQI Nigerians and Africans in general. By being visible in the media, we show that we exist and are just as ‘normal’ as every other Nigerian. It removes the air of perversion that is used when telling our stories. The more we speak out, the more we change public opinion about us. The laws may not change anytime soon, but changing the public’s perception of our community is more important. I am competing for Miss Trans Star International on the 17th of September in Barcelona, Spain. I will be representing Nigeria as usual and I’ll be flying the Nigerian flag proudly. Sometime next year, I’ll be going back to Nigeria to shoot a short film about LGBTIQ+ Nigerians living and barely surviving in the midst of hate.

6) You are the first Nigerian transgender woman to come out publicly in the international media. This could not have been an easy decision given the discrimination, harassment, and threats that you must have anticipated you will get after doing so. Can you talk a little bit about why you decided to go through with it anyway?

I was completely naïve. I did not expect the backlash and criticisms. In many ways, it was good that I didn’t know that the attention from Nigerians would be mostly negative because if I had known, I wouldn’t have taken the steps to come out so publicly. After coming out, the hate made me stronger and more determined to live my life fully and proudly, without fear of persecution. I wanted to prove the doubters and the haters wrong, by living my dreams fully. I hope that one day I’ll influence one or more LGBTQI+ Nigerians to come out and be themselves, without fear.

7) Since moving to the United Kingdom, how have you been able to continue the fight for the visibility, representation, and protection of transgender people in Nigeria?

Every day is a struggle. Being black, African, and a transgender woman makes progressing in life difficult. But I am still grateful for having the freedom to lead my life peacefully. My fellow trans sisters in Nigeria have it worst. The transgender identity, unlike sexuality, is physical and it cannot be disguised or hidden. So it will be impossible to go through the process of living as one’s ‘authentic’ self in Nigeria when navigating this journey. I always get asked for help from Nigerians who are going through what I went through all the time. It saddens me greatly, but all I can do is be their voice in the media and keep drawing attention to Nigeria. Hopefully, one day, the government will listen to our cries for freedom and equality.

8) I know that you have been a very vocal and active critique of the Nigerian law that seeks to imprison LGBT persons in the country. What, do you think, is the best mode of action for activists who want this law repealed?

We all have to continue speaking out and reaching out to our allies, in order to set into motion the change we need in Africa. If Nigerians are willing to listen, I will gladly speak to them about how ‘natural’ it is to be a member of the LGBTQI+ community.

By teaching people about us, we would squash the negative misconceptions they have of us. I would suggest lobbying the Nigerian government, but that would be futile given the fact that the government and the religious leaders consider us immoral and unnatural.

We can also involve international organizations like the United Nations, World leaders like President Barak Obama and the Queen of England, to put some pressure on African governments to reverse the hateful colonial laws left behind and the new ones being created due to religious pressures.

If the Common Wealth leaders gently persuade its member countries to enforce laws that promote the equality and the human rights of all, it will help to bring the much-needed understanding and legal protection for our community.

9) There are people who argue that gender identity is socially constructed and fluid not biologically determined. They argue that the validity of the identity of transgender people depend on a kind of gender essentialism that simply does not exist without one reverting to socially damaging stereotypes about gender. How would you respond to those critics?

Well, I can see where they are coming from, and gender is definitely a social construct. A vast majority of humans are assigned a certain gender at birth and grow into that gender without any conflict. But, there are many others, like transsexuals, gender non-binary people, and intersex people, who don’t fit into that binary definition of gender given by their doctors/ family/ midwives at birth.

Gender is a social construct because we are told that gender is binary––male and female––from the day we are born. We are taught that blue is for boys and pink is for girls. Dolls are for girls and toy cars and guns are for boys. We are pigeonholed into certain roles and if we stray off course, we are corrected or disciplined by adults for doing things they deem as wrong given our assigned genders.

Many transphobic people argue that gender is determined by chromosomes or biology, they forget that gender is assigned at birth by humans and not biology or chromosomes. We define and class people based on what genitalia they are born with. Those who are born with ambiguous genitalia are given a gender from the binary, based on what their parents want.

So using chromosomes to discredit our identity is baseless since biology is not so clear-cut. Gender is in the brain and not in our genitalia. Our brain tells us who we are, not what we have between our legs.

10) You founded a community, TransValid, a movement that seeks to represent, empower, and humanize transgender persons. Can you tell me a little more about the community and the direction that you see the community headed for in the future?

TransValid Organization is an educational movement, which helps to clarify what it means to be trans. We produce and curate trans stories through our own narrative, as the transgender narrative is often obscured and sensationalized by tabloid journalism. Our stories are often told with transphobic slurs, dead-naming, and a callous disregard for who we say we are. Some examples include the use of the phrase ‘Formerly known as’, the use of the wrong pronouns, publication of ‘Before and after’ pictures of trans people to create shock and to use them as click baits for their poorly researched contents.

So TransValid helps to republish information that is put out by the mainstream media, in a more appropriate and respectful light.

11) What advice would you give to young transgender persons, like yourself, who are currently dealing with an environment of hostility and discrimination both in Nigeria and abroad, and to activists/allies fighting against transphobia within their community?

I will tell them to be strong and to never compromise their beliefs about who they feel they are or the people they love. One day we will win the equality fight in Africa. But it will, unfortunately, take some time.

They should teach people about who they are without implicating or outing themselves if they are not out or they feel unsafe. They should tell all who are willing to listen that being LGBTQI+ is natural and human.

Even people who are not members of our community can also help us by speaking out too. The more friends and family speak out in favour of their own LGBTQI+ relatives, the more minds we can change.

Many Nigerians who very hold strong negative views about LGBTQI+ people have no knowledge of what it means to be a member of our community. All they know is the common, perverted misconceptions floating around in the media and within our society.

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Exclusive Interview With Stephanie Okereke Linus

©Dela-Dee Innovations

1) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your hobbies, passions, and dislikes?

I was born in Nigeria, and I'm a deep lover of my country. I was lucky enough to discover my passion for acting as a teenager and I’ve never looked back. Over the years, my love of acting has grown into other interests, such as filmmaking, with a strong desire to use my platform in order to drive positive change.

I love spending time with family and friends; I love travelling, discovering, and experiencing new things. I love cooking delicious meals, and I’m a sucker for a good fragrance. I have very little tolerance for mediocrity.

2) I know that you are interested in social issues in Nigeria. As an actress, how does this interest bleed into and influence your work?

I learnt a long time ago that film is often the perfect vehicle to provide education about social issues and to inspire social and political change. After the movie is over, the work of the viewer has just begun. They must go back out into the world and make changes. That is my biggest drive. Knowing the powerful influence I have, as an actress, is enough for me to yearn for roles that influence people positively.

3) The movie, Dry–which you wrote, directed, and starred in–centres on the theme of child marriage in Nigeria, and it is told through the story of a young girl, Halima, who was married off to an older man by her parents. Was there any particular real-life experience that got you interested in the issue of child marriage in Nigeria?

DRY is inspired by the true-life stories of several girls I have met over the years. Since I first heard about Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) as a student in the University, I embarked on a research, which took me around the country, and to other African countries, where I interacted closely with lots of young girls who had been forced into an early marriage and had the disease. Many of them shared their stories with me, which inspired the script for the film. I also met a very young girl, whose story, in particular, blew my mind.

4) How have you managed your film’s reception, both from the general public’s reaction, but also from the reactions of leaders and policymakers that may have seen the film to get a better grasp on the issue?

DRY has been well received with good feedback everywhere it has been screened. Every day, I get feedback from people who have watched the movie, and they have only kind and inspiring words to say. I am glad the message the movie carries is resonating deeply with people who have watched the movie.

The response has been the same with leaders and policy makers. We’ve been privileged enough to screen DRY to some key African leaders who have been positively influenced by the message. When we screened the movie in Zambia, the First Lady who was in attendance related strongly with the message and was moved to tears. We also screened DRY some weeks ago in Gambia to an audience that included the country’s Vice-President. I was glad to read in the news a short while later that Child Marriage had been banned in Gambia.

My biggest testimony is the fact that ‘DRY’ is moving the conversation around the world and shining the spotlight on the African girl child as well as the need to protect her. We are also taking the message of DRY beyond the screens and are carrying out some free repair surgeries on women with VVF through our Extended Hands Foundation in partnership with some corporate organisations.

5) How do you think that Nigeria can better address the issue of child marriage both at a policy level but also at a socio-cultural level, seeing as how there tends to be a disconnect between legal legitimacy and cultural legitimacy in the country?

Child marriage in West Africa is rooted in poverty and the overall position of women in society. Many families have no choice. When a wealthy man comes offering money, they will let their daughters marry them, even if they are young. Lack of education, entrenched religious and cultural practices, and limited economic prospects, push girls into the margins and into harmful early marriages.

Similarly, in communities where there are no laws against forced marriages, the girl child suffers. So yes, even though there tends to be a disconnect between legal legitimacy and cultural legitimacy on this particular issue, we need to address both.

In 2015, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) bill was passed into law in Nigeria, which prevents all forms of violence against vulnerable persons, especially women and girls, amongst other things. However, more needs to be done and more of such laws should be passed across West Africa. We need to increase awareness and address early marriage in the local communities as well as pay more attention to the education of the girl child. I strongly believe that education is one of the most effective strategies to protect children from marriage. When girls are able to stay in school, an attitudinal change can also occur towards their opportunities within the community.

6) In Nigeria, as in many African countries, ‘Art’ is inherently political. How do you think that the Nollywood film industry can continue to effectively campaign and raise awareness for social issues through films?

The campaign has already started and I’m glad that many filmmakers of today are thinking this way. With DRY, the focus was on VVF and Child Marriage, as well as its underlying social issues such as maternal health, poverty and inequality. This has made people more aware of such issues and it is shifting the conversation everywhere. More and more filmmakers are raising awareness through films and the response has been generally good. What I think we can do better in Nollywood is, improve the quality of our content. We should not compromise standards in any way. We must rise beyond the perceived thought that we do not make good quality movies and compete favourably with world-class film productions. When people watch a good film with a good message, the result is the same everywhere.

A good film can prompt you to look deeper into social justice issues and get involved. With the amplifying nature of media, filmmakers have a significant tool at their disposal. I strongly believe that art has a huge role to play in society and can be a catalyst for change and positivity if used in the right way.

7) Do you have any advice for young filmmakers, actors/actresses, and activists out there?

To become successful in anything, you need to first of all love what you do and have a strong passion for it. You also need to build up your skills, read widely, study your craft, and keep on setting bigger targets for yourself. Growth is a gradual process and you must aspire to it every day. This must be backed with a strong determination to succeed. Believing strongly that God has given you all the abilities you need, you can be anything you want to be.

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Exclusive Interview With Dawn And Hawkes

© Jackie Lovato

The first time I heard this Dynamic Duo, Dawn and Hawkes, sing, it was during their audition for the voice. They performed their own down-to-earth rendition of a classic song, I’ve Just Seen A Face, from the classic Band, The Beatles. It was beyond lovely, and one could not help but root for them to the end. 

Now, this Dynamic Duo has graced the world with their wonderful debut album, Yours and Mine, that is as much a story about their journey as musicians as it is a story about their journey as a couple. The album, at times mellow, and at times upbeat, is a compilation of a transcendent alternative-folk sound, in a music industry clouded with tiring upbeat music that is more beats and sounds than it is music and a lyrical story.

From songs like Silver Line, Yours and Mine, Lightning Strikes, Almost Mine, and my personal favourite, Never Feel Alone, the album is thoroughly entertaining from beginning to end. Not once does the duo falter in their transcendent sound. This near perfect album is very easy to listen to and in the end you will find yourself craving more from this amazing Dynamic Duo. Their debut album is easily one of the best albums of 2015.

1) First of all, I love your music. Can you start off by each telling me a little bit about yourself and then your group?

Miranda: That's so nice - thank you! As an Austin native, I grew up immersed in a culture that encourages music and creativity. From a young age my dad began teaching me about music and I witnessed the artistic culture here by watching him play drums and mandolin in bands around town.

After earning a degree in Entrepreneurship from St. Edwards, I began to work with non-profits and sustainability efforts. I helped start up businesses and organizations before taking a creative path to pursue performing the songs that I had been passionately writing for years. I began by touring as a back up singer while running and promoting songwriter showcases in town. That's where Chris and I first started playing together. Once I committed to playing music professionally, it became a passionate pursuit. Music continues to unfold and teach me, with new adventures everyday. For me the excitement comes from bringing resources, people, and emotions together to create something greater than myself.

Chris: I grew up in a musical family and tried my hand at playing several different instruments until I found one of my Dad's old guitars. Playing the guitar opened up an entirely new world for me. I started writing songs and singing which led to recording originals and my own versions of songs by artists like Cream and The Eagles. I would experiment with how the elements and sounds add together to make a song come to life. I liked collaborating with other people to find the sounds in our heads. After high school, I earned a degree in audio engineering from The Dallas Sound Lab, interned at a studio in Denton and worked as a sound engineer for the University of North Texas. I played in a couple bands through college and was drawn to Austin's rich musical culture. I moved to Austin and started performing and touring solo. Then one night I met Miranda. We started playing together and she opened a new life thats even more filled with and fueled by music.

2) As indie-folk artists, how do you navigate the very knotty, difficult, and at times frustrating music industry?

We both grew up during a shifting time in the music business. How people find and listen to music has been changing the whole time. Being independent musicians has its challenges, with financial and promotional resources, but relationships are still the life force that makes it work on every level. How we connect with other music makers and listeners pulls us forward and keeps us afloat. Regardless of the industry, music is still exciting and rewarding. Just taking a breather with a new favourite album is recharging, inspirational and a reminder that making and hearing music is a priceless thing in life.

© Jackie Lovato

3) Okay, lets talk about your debut album, Yours and Mine. The album was amazing! It is always so rare for me to like all of the songs on an album. But, not only did I like all the songs on your album, I absolutely loved them all! It is definitely one of my favorite albums this year. Can you tell me a bit about the album, the writing and production process, and its subsequent release?

Wow that's fantastic to hear! Thank you. We wrote most of the songs on the road together traveling to or from a gig but each song has its own unique story. Two of the individually written songs came from a songwriting workshop where each writer wrote 10 songs in a day.

We'd record songs for the album on days home from touring. We setup a home studio and focused on finding a balance, keeping it simple - two guitars and voices - and letting the individual character or vibe of each song inspire other elements - piano, mandolin, upright bass, drums.

4) Again, all the songs on your album are simply amazing. But, my favorites are Yours and Mine, Almost Mine, and my absolute favorite, Never Feel Alone. Can you tell me a little bit about the inspirations behind these particular songs on your album?

Yours and Mine came from a conversation on the way to play a wedding. It's kind of a vulnerable and tense moment, unwinding in the lyrics, that find understanding and hope.

Almost Mine and Never Feel alone were both written at the 10-songs-in-a-day retreat in San Diego.

Miranda: 'Almost Mine' is about a lost chance, a missed connection, or a regret after an opportunity has passed by. The character in the song is waiting to go after a long held dream, but the dream is lost from waiting too long. Almost mine was the first song that came out that day.

Chris: While writing and looking out a window, I saw a possibly sketchy looking van parked across from the building where we were all writing. It kind of initiated a day dream of driving up the coast and imagining the person owning that van. I found a combination of that story and my own personal reflection of years as a touring solo musician in "Never Feel Alone"

5) Can you tell prospective fans out there why they should pick up your album, what do you think separates your sound from the other sounds out there? Also, do you have any advice for young and aspiring artistes out there?

That's a great question! I think the mix of our two voices and two guitars, our individual sounds and thoughts, mix together in a way that's uniquely us. Something about the duo actually gives us room to be naturally expressive individually, and it has a certain energy to it.

If we could say anything to young or upcoming artists it would be that we have respect for those who are going for it regardless of what the industry looks like. If you feel compelled to make music, someone out there might need to hear it as much as you need to make it! It's rewarding to be a part of something that beautiful.

© Jackie Lovato

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Exclusive Interview With Renée Ahdieh

1) Who were your role models growing up, both within and outside of the writing world, and what inspired you to become a writer?

My role models were mostly the heroes and heroines in some of my most beloved books—Alanna from Tamora Pierce’s work, Taran of Caer Dallben from Lloyd Alexander’s Prydain Chronicles, and Eilonwy from the same series.

2) This is probably an unfair question, but who is your favorite writer or what is your favorite book? Or to put it another way, what literary work or author has influenced your writing style the most?

My favorite authors are Isabel Allende and Kahlil Gibran.

3) What is the thing you love most about writing or about making a career out of being a writer?

Having the opportunity to meet all the amazing people in the book world—publishers, bloggers, other writers, book lovers, etc.

4) Can you tell me a little bit about your writing process, and how your ideas transform from drafts to the final product?

I’m big on outlining, so I tend to start with character sketches and build plots from there.

5) Do you ever encounter obstacles or challenges while you are writing? If so, how do you deal with them? Are you, for example, ever plagued by writer’s block? What kind of practical advice can you give to writers who are facing such challenges?

I don’t believe in writer’s block, but I do believe in writing oneself into a corner. For me, it usually means I’m forcing it; that the writing is not organic. I’d suggest taking a step back and seeking sources of inspiration.

6) I have to say, I am not well versed on the classic tales in One Thousand and One Nights beyond the famous classic stories in the work that we have all come to know and love, such as Aladdin. But, after reading your book, I went online and purchased an anthology of all the stories. Why did you decide to base your book on the stories in this work?

Two reasons: I am the child of mixed race, so I always knew I wanted to bring a different world to life. The second reason is because my husband’s family is Persian, so I had a fount of knowledge at my doorstep.

7) Your book, The Wrath & The Dawn, is so amazing, and I really enjoyed reading it. In my review of your book for my book site, I wrote, “The most powerful asset of this book is the ability to retell an age old story of looking past what we think we know about someone and giving their humanity a chance. We are forced to explore the main characters more deeply and break through the shells of who we think they are. But, more than this, Ahdieh does not simply retell this old story, but she almost dares us to disagree with its veracity, its possibility, its strength, and its hope. In the end, I find that I cannot, and neither will you.” Why did you decide to write this particular story? PS: I am really glad that you did!

Thank you so much! Mostly for the reasons stated above. Also because I am huge fan of the source material. My favorite tale is the story of Sinbad.

8) The one thing I love about your book is the diversity in your narrative and how the book givesa  vision to what the young adult book world will look like, if it entertained diversity. Can you comment a bit about diversity in the young adult book world?

I think this year has been a banner year for diverse books. Wonderful stories of a diverse nature have always been there, but this has been a great year for putting the dearth in diverse children’s literature in the foreground, as opposed to on the back burner. It’s an issue that’s very important to me.

9) Shahrzad and Khalid, the main characters in your novel, are amazing and they make quite the pair. It is hard not to root for them both individually and as a pair. What/Who are the inspirations behind the characters?

I thought first about how to make them whole, complete characters on their own. I believe this is the foundation of a solid relationship.

10) Jalal is my favorite character in your book, and he is my Delam. He is very funny, optimistic, and protective. Please tell me we would be seeing a lot more of him in book two of the series?

Yes! And I love Jalal, too.

11) Am I right to assume that The Wrath & The Dawn is going to be a Duology rather than a trilogy?

It’s going to be a duology.

12) Can you give us some hints about what to expect from Book two? For instance, is there going to be more magic- please let there be more magic- because you seem to set it up as a central theme to expect in book two?

I can’t say much about it, but I will say there will be more sword-fighting, more kissing, and maybe a magic carpet ride or two.

13) Are you currently working on any other books or actively exploring ideas for other books besides your current series?

Yes, I just started to draft the first of a new fantasy series.

14) What advice do you have for young, aspiring writers out there?

Don’t listen to people who try to give you advice. Just keep trying, no matter what.

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Exclusive Interview With Maggie Eckford (Ruelle)

© Ashley Wright

1) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes and your dislikes?

I was born in Mississippi, so I’m a southerner at heart. I’ve lived in a lot of different places, but I find myself appreciating my roots more and more, the older I get. I’m 29 years old and the middle child of three girls. I love traveling and experiencing new things...I think I spend most of my money on food because I love the experience of eating out, and I’m a sucker for a good atmosphere. I’m infatuated with the ocean and desperately wanted to be a mermaid when I was little (I think I still do). I dislike being stuck in large crowds, celery…that might be the only food I despise. I also hate scary movies…I’m a big baby when it comes to that stuff.

2) Can you tell me a little bit about your early life and what your favorite childhood memories are? 

My early life was fairly simple. I grew up in a little town in Mississippi with my two sisters. When I was really small, we lived on a dairy farm and we had a TON of cats roaming around. I specifically remember that for some reason. My dad also used to drive those big semi trucks –18-wheelers, as we called them– when he had a trucking company. He would occasionally let my sisters and I take turns going on  “routes” with him, and I remember thinking it was the coolest thing on the planet getting to ride in that massive thing all day. I was obsessed with “The Little Mermaid” growing up, and I would sing all the songs from that movie at the top of my lungs when we were in the truck while my dad made the “wave crashing noises” in the background! He’s the best.

3) Who were your role models growing up, both inside and outside of the music industry? 

Hmm…I used to LOVE Amy Grant (still do, if I’m being honest)...she was one of my early favorites, and I always admired her. Interestingly enough, some of the first songs I learned to play on a piano were from Phantom of the Opera. I was in love with those songs, and I looked up to Sarah Brightman –from the original– and thought her voice was so heavenly! I wanted to be like her.

4) When did you decide that you want to pursue music as a professional career?

I’m not sure that I ever had this “aha” moment necessarily, but I did try to do the college thing for nearly three years and realized it was not for me. I remember thinking that college for me was always plan B…music being plan A…and that if I didn’t at least give my all for plan A I would absolutely regret it (little disclaimer: please kids, do not drop out of school). I recognized the importance of an education, so after dropping out I decided to study music and songwriting instead. I just so happened to find a school in Sydney, Australia –a place I always knew I would visit.

5) How are you able to navigate through the difficulties within the music industry, especially given that you are an independent artiste?

I think the biggest thing for me is never letting what I do determine who I am. You have to learn to be happy no matter what your circumstances are. If you think that “making it” in music or that reaching that next goal is going to make you happy, you will be highly disappointed. It’s in the striving that we lose our sense of the here and now. Work hard and dream big, but don’t ever let your entire identity reside in those things. I think the sooner you learn to let go of things that are out of your control, the more things will start to happen naturally for you and open new doors for you. I can look back now at all those doors that closed, the ones that disappointed me at the time, and see them as a blessing and not a curse. Something better was usually around the corner!

6) So, you have actually released two albums under your name ‘Maggie Eckford’ and another album under your musical alter ego ‘Ruelle’. How are you able to navigate between these two musical identities?

Ruelle started as a result of me writing songs for TV/Film. They were all sort of in this darker electronic vein that sounded very different from the previous “Maggie” songs I had done. I sort of just discovered this new sound that felt natural and easy for me, and then when those songs started getting placed a lot in TV and film, I realized I needed to separate the two. It is interesting keeping up with both sometimes, but I think it was the right move. It’s almost like having two different shoe companies. You have to brand them differently because the products are different, even though they are both yours and both companies make shoes. Simple, I know, but true!

7) The music you release under your name is a bridge between pop music and indie music while the music you release under ‘Ruelle’ is a bridge between electronic and pop music. Can you tell me about your songwriting and production process when making music under both musical identities? 

Honestly it’s pretty simple. I always focus on getting the best song, whatever that looks like. If it ends up sounding more like Ruelle, I put it under that name. If it seems truer to the Maggie Eckford sound, I list that as the artist. My focus is always to write the best song, and we deal with the details after.

8) I will be the first to admit that I am not a huge fan of contemporary electronic-pop music because it is not very lyrical. However, your music is able to find a good balance between the electronic aspect of the music and the lyrical aspect of the music. Can you tell me how you find, navigate, and maintain that balance?

I grew up writing poetry and short stories before I started writing songs. I think this has always carried over into my songwriting. I was that kid in school who loved writing essays. So lyrics have always held a special place in my heart. Phrasing is a big deal to me too. If a line doesn’t ‘sing well’, I won’t use it. It may take me a bit longer than some songwriters to write lyrics, but it’s because that aspect of the process is very important to me.

9) Your album ‘Up in Flames’, released under Ruelle was amazing. What was the inspiration behind the album, and is there an overarching theme that is present or that you tried to incorporate in the album?

I love film, so most of these songs were written with that in mind. I would envision scenes or stories/scenarios in my head. I’ve always been fascinated by movie scores, so a lot of those songs are sort of my version of composing music in order to depict feeling and emotion within a scene. It sounds weird because the scenes were usually just within my head, but one of my favorite things is the emotion that happens as a result of the marriage between music and film. I wanted the EP to have a strong cinematic element to it.

10) You released a song ‘Let The Light Back’ under your name Maggie Eckford and that is my favorite song of yours till date. The song never fails to make me cry when I listen to it and it is just so beautiful. Can you tell me the inspiration behind the song?

Thank you! That means a lot! I remember discussing what we were going to write about that day (I wrote that song with my friend Alain Whyte), and we just sort of talked out scenarios. One of those scenarios was, “What would you want to sing about or want to say to a loved one who may be in a really hard place, whether physically or emotionally, in order to give them some sense of hope?” I connected with that, and it was an approach lyrically that I hadn’t taken before. So that’s the angle we wrote the song from.

11) Are you currently working on any new songs, a new EP/album, or any new musical projects or collaborations?

Oh I have lots of things up my sleeve. I’m always writing, and I have several songs I’m really excited about. I definitely plan on releasing more music soon…it might not be until next year, but that’s because I’m working hard on making sure it’s something that feels complete and something that I’m really proud of. These things shouldn’t be rushed.

12) Can you tell prospective fans why they should pick up your album? What do you think separates your sound/music from other musicians out there?

Hmm…I’ve always found it hard to “sell myself”, but I think for me I can honestly say that my music will always come out of a very real, very genuine place. I’m very passionate about what I do, and it will always be authentic. I hope that you can hear it in my voice when you hear the songs. A lot of emotion goes in, and therefore a lot of emotion comes out when you listen to it...I really hope that my listeners can feel and sense that. There’s a depth there that I will always strive for lyrically and musically, and that will never change as long as I’m doing what I’m doing.

13) What advice do you have for young and aspiring artists out there, or for young people in general?

Keep writing and work hard. But, like I said before, never let what you do determine who you are. Find happiness in who you are as a person first and foremost, and be comfortable in your own skin. That is something that no one can take away from you. Learn to let things go quickly, and don’t focus on what hasn’t happened yet. BE KIND to people. I’m a firm believer that things go well for you when you give back and put others first. The most attractive thing about a person, ESPECIALLY those that are really successful, is humility and kindness. You will go far in life, if you can hold onto those things.

To Purchase Ruelle’s Music: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/artist/ruelle/id937490184

To Purchase Maggie Eckford’s Music: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/artist/maggie-eckford/id372968240

Facebook (Ruelle): https://www.facebook.com/ruellemusic

Twitter (Ruelle): https://twitter.com/ruellemusic

Instagram (Ruelle): https://instagram.com/ruellemusic/

Facebook (Maggie Eckford): https://www.facebook.com/maggieeckford

Twitter (Maggie Eckford): https://twitter.com/maggieeckford

Instagram (Maggie Eckford): https://instagram.com/maggieeckford/

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Exclusive Interview With Rich Lown

© Chris Mammone

1) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes and your dislikes? 

Sure, I’m a very laid back person. I've often been called ‘an old soul’. I have been described as someone who's wise and maybe a little sensitive. I love spending time with family and friends, and of course playing gigs. I love theatre as is evident by the fact that I work in one. I love sports, the beach, and the summer. I hate loud eaters, rude people and arrogance!

2) Tell me a little bit about your early life, your favorite childhood/teen/young-adult memories? 

I was brought up in a family of five. I was born in London, and I moved to the South Coast of England, to a town called Bexhill-On-Sea where I grew up. It's a very quiet town and it boasts of the best weather in the country, and it is located very close to historic towns such as, Eastbourne, Brighton and Hastings. I couldn't have asked for a more stable, safe and loving up bringing there, with a wonderful family. I have two extremely wise and awesome older brothers and the best mum and dad, with many fond childhood memories of surfing on family holidays in Cornwall, and teen memories in and through school with my friends. My young adult memories are just as happy as my childhood and teen memories, as it was the time when music began to enter into my life. It's funny because growing up I was a super stubborn kid. I started a fuss when my mum tried to pay for me to have guitar, piano or drum lessons. I just wanted to go and play football with my friends or do my own thing. I was never remotely musical until I was about seventeen years old. I had a friend who played guitar and we started to write 'silly' songs together. I then got a cheap guitar myself for my birthday and got 'the bug' for it. I kept practicing songs my friend taught me and then used the chords I had learnt to make my own 'silly songs'. It took another two years before I realized I was capable of taking it seriously, and here I am today.

3) Who were your role models growing up, both inside and outside of the music industry? 

It's hard to look past my own family, really. I have a classically trained pianist in my Mum, a faultless violin player in my dad and two brothers who played guitar and were highly encouraging in developing my own creativity. I think a lot of people around me could see my potential before I could play a note of music. When I was small, my brother bought me my first Cassette in the 99p, single of 'Mmmbop' by Hanson. I used to play it on repeat on eight-hour car journeys to Cornwall before I got their first album for my birthday. I was hooked! Because they were of a similar age to my brothers and I, and looked a bit like us with the 90's curtain style haircuts, they were and still are a big influence in certain aspects of my music today. Today I listen to a lot of singer-songwriters, and artistes such as, John Mayer, Ed Sheeran, Passenger, Birdy, and many more inspire me.

4) When did you decide that you want to pursue music as a professional career? 

Ironically, I started playing guitar more and writing songs at a time when I was wondering what to do with my life. I was 17, not enjoying college, and on a quest to find something fulfilling. I began to write songs to help me through the turbulence of life. However, it was how other people responded to my music that made me think, maybe this is it? With the exception of a few chords from friends and family, I’m a self taught guitarist, pianist, singer and songwriter – something I’m incredibly proud of. This has also allowed me to find a form of purity in music. Really, it's the music that showed me the way! 

5) Being a fairly new artist in the music industry, how do you navigate through the difficulties that new artistes tend to face in the music industry? 

It is an extremely cutthroat industry. As you slowly climb the ladder towards your goals, you face a lot of obstacles that try to bring you down along the way. It's very easy to doubt yourself and give up but I think, personally for me, the more challenges I face, the better my songwriting gets and the more defined my music becomes. I also try and write in a very optimistic manner so that not only is it the case that other people can take comfort, happiness and positivity from the words I sing, but when I’m feeling down myself, my own words remind me never to give up. I concentrate a lot on the goals I’ve already achieved in such a short space of time and the positivity surrounding my music by people who have earned the right to give an accurate judgment. This all helps me push on.

6) Do you think that there are pros to being a new artist- an artist who is still trying to establish themselves- in the music industry? 

There are some pros. I think right now I have 100% control. I can sing, write and do whatever I want without any interference. I can keep 100% of my royalties and music sales and I can sing and play exactly what my intuition and heart wants me to play. I aspire to reach a larger audience and become more successful, however, as there are far more pros to having more professional people around you to help you push on. 

7) I know that you are a singer-songwriter, can you walk me through your songwriting process?

Having never taken a lesson on 'how to write a song', my songwriting process is very natural and intuitive. When you're not taught the right or wrong way to do something, there are no rules and you can concentrate solely on your senses. I would usually pick up my guitar without a thought on my mind and more often than not my fingers will just discover and land on a chord. My ears and natural rhythm will then help me begin the musical side of a song. If I’m excited by the sounds and the idea that I’ve come up with, I will then sing 'gobbledygook'. I literally sing absolute nonsense to come up with something catchy and if I’ve got something, I will start to write down some ideas. 90% of the time for me, I have started to write a song when I’ve got about half an hour before I need to be somewhere or about 10 minutes before I plan on going to bed. You can't plan to write a song and you just have to grasp the windows of creativity when they come across to you. I'm very thankful for my phone too! With the voice recording on my iPhone, I often record these creative bubbles so that I can come back to them another time. This is a huge help for me, and my phone dates back to 2008 with song ideas. In fact, one of my most recent releases on my new EP was a song idea I came up with 4 years ago. I found it again when flicking through my voice memos on a train journey and I felt inspired to finish the song.

8) Can you describe the production process that your album underwent, from draft to finished product? 

Having been given a free studio day back when I was in a national competition, I met my engineer Olli Daffarn, at 'River Studios'. With the intention of only going there to record one single, Olli became such a big fan of my music and we got on so well that we decided to work on an EP together. The EP then became an album. His dedication to helping me meant that he started to work on my songs in his own spare time, and for that, I’ll always be thankful. He barely slept when trying to get the mixes right and gave me extra time, and money off, when I returned. Being a self funded musician, I don’t have the infinite budget of a record label and with an average cost of £300 a day for a professional studio and getting one song about 80% finished in that time, you can understand that an album of 15 songs has taken a long time and a lot of investment, for me to create the final product. It's important you don't rush producing an album too. Sometimes you make mistakes and there’s a lot of trial and error when recording, which uses up valuable time and money. From playing lots of gigs and weddings, I saved up the money to keep popping back and recording new songs and although it's not perfect, I’m so proud of my album. I'd also like to give special thanks to my co-musician Robin Hirschfeld, a faultless professional guitarist who I met on a music course five years ago. He began to play live with me and he has been a key figure in musical career ever since. On my album, Robin is featured on nearly every song with his beautiful John Mayer melodies, and he also played bass on a lot of songs. Without him, my album would certainly have a very different feel to it. 

9) My favorite song, of yours, of all time, is ‘Somehow’. It was the last song on your EP, ‘You belong to me’. I swear, when I first heard that song, I cried. I relate to the song a lot. Can you tell me the inspiration behind the song? 

Somehow is probably one my favorites too. It was actually the fourth song I ever wrote and a song that I think I’ve played at every single gig in my life. It's always the last song I play and probably one of my favorites, lyrically. I actually wrote this song straight after watching the news. There was a feature on a local man that was terminally ill but he was spending his remaining months ticking things off his bucket list with his wife. It was incredibly touching and I guess the story inspired me to write this song. The words don't entirely relate to this situation but maybe it gave my intuition a nudge and I finished writing the song in one go, in about two hours. It is a perfect example of taking advantage of a creative bubble and putting your heart into it. 

10) Your album ‘World’s Apart’ was amazing. When I first heard it, I played it over and over again for a week. Needless to say, I am a huge fan of your music. What was the inspiration behind the album, and is there an overarching theme that is present or that you tried to incorporate in the album? 

I don't think I really had a theme, as such, with the album. It's basically a collection of songs that reflects the various challenges- happy and sad moments- of my life over the last few years. Some songs are very lyrically genuine, others merely inspired by totally off subject situations. I think start to finish, it's not perfect but I know looking back when I’ve hopefully released albums four and five, it will be a clear insight into my journey of defining myself as a musician and finding my voice. 

11) Are you currently working on any new songs, a new EP/album, or any new musical projects or collaborations? 

I will always be working on new material, I’m thankful for the gift I have to write songs and because it's such a big part of me, I’ll always be writing and recording throughout my life. A new album will be on its way for sure. I'm also in the middle of breaking out of my comfort zone. I've been asked to collaborate with some big DJ’s, which has always interested me. To work with completely new genres is a lot of fun but I’ll never be too far from my own songwriting. 

12) Can you tell prospective fans why they should pick up your album, what, do you think separates your sound/music from other musicians out there? 

If you like natural, soulful and catchy songs then do grab a copy of my album from me or download it on iTunes. My music couldn't be any more honest and heartfelt and I think a lot of people can relate to my songs. I've had the nicest comments from people in the past who have said that they have taken comfort from my lyrics, and that my music has helped them through tough times. There can be no bigger reward for me and I hope I continue to inspire many more. 

13) What advice do you have for young and aspiring artists out there, or for young people in general? 

Just keep at it. My dad always said being a musician is like riding a bus. It's crammed with other people but if you're patient, you will eventually get to your destination and you will find a lot of the people on the bus will get off at various stops. Keep going, keep writing, and keep defining, but most of all keep loving what you do, because it is a gift.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richlownmusic

Twitter: www.twitter.com/richlownmusic

To Purchase his music: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rich-lown/id272898951

Also Published on The Society Cynic.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DANIELLE JENSEN, AUTHOR OF THE MALEDICTION SERIES

© Danielle Jensen

1) Can you tell me about your early life, where you grew up, where you went to school, and when you realized that you wanted to be a writer?

I grew up in Calgary, Canada (which is where I still live). I was always a big reader with a head full of stories, but it never crossed my mind to become a writer. Instead, I went to university and got a Bachelor of Commerce and worked in finance for a number of years. During that time, a coworker of mine suggested we write a romance novel, and the idea of writing a book really stuck in my head. After a few years of secretly working on a novel, I went back to school and got a Bachelor of Arts – English (Honors), and have focused on my writing career ever since.

2) Who were your role models growing up, both within and outside of the writing world, and what inspired you to become a writer?

Ultimately, it was a love for reading that inspired my desire to write, and that love of reading came from my parents. I have never really looked at anyone as a role model. I like to choose what direction I take in life, and allowing any one person to overtly influence me runs counter to my personality.

3) This is probably an unfair question, but who is your favorite writer or what is your favorite book? Or to put it another way, what literary work has influenced your writing style the most?

I wouldn’t say any particular author has influenced my writing style, but my love of fantasy stemmed from my dad reading David Eddings novels to me when I was a little kid. My favorite novel is Dragonsbane by Barbara Hambly. The characters in that book are so real… If I can instill half that much life into my books, I will feel as though I’ve done my duty.

4) Can you tell me a little bit about your writing process, from first draft to last?

I don’t have a consistent process at this point, because each one of my novels has been written under different life circumstances. Stolen Songbird took quite a long time to write, because I was going to school full time and waitressing at night. Hidden Huntress took about a year to draft and edit, and I have a couple manuscripts that will never see the light of day that took me only a few months to write. I don’t like to plot novels – I prefer to see where the story takes me, which often requires a lot of editing and rewriting. I am very critical of my own work, so I spend a lot of time self-editing before I let anyone else read my writing. I don’t have a critique partner, but I do run my books by my family before they go anywhere. My agent is a very strong editor, and I rely on her a great deal to get my manuscripts in fantastic shape before they go to my publisher.

5) Do you ever encounter obstacles or challenges while you are writing? If so, how do you deal with them? Are you, for example, ever plagued by writer’s block? What kind of practical advice can you give to writers who are facing such challenges?

My single greatest challenge has been finding the time to write. I’ve always had a full time job, so I’ve had to fit writing around my work schedule, often at great consequence to my personal life. There was a time when I’d sacrifice just about anything to spend more time on my books, but now that I have a family, I work hard to find a balance. I’m learning to be more efficient about how I use the time I have to work, to not let social media have a constant presence in my day, and most importantly, how to say no to certain demands on my time, which is something I’ve struggled with in the past.

6) I need you to understand something, I loved your book, Stolen Songbird, I thought it was really amazing and I am very excited for the second book, Hidden Huntress. When is the second book coming out, exactly?

I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it so much! I’m extremely excited for everyone to get his or her hands on the sequel. Hidden Huntress releases June 2 in North America and June 4 in the rest of the world. It’s available for preorder now for anyone who is interested!

7) Can you tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind your book series, The Malediction Trilogy?

Stolen Songbird was somewhat inspired by a dream I had about a city covered by rubble, but mostly it came swimming out of my imagination.

8) I think that Cécile is a very fascinating heroine. She is strong but flawed, beautiful but not regal, and just as confused as you would expect any young girl to be, and that makes her more attainable than a lot of lead heroines in young adult fiction today. What was the inspiration behind her character, and what path is she going to take up in the second book?

I’m glad you like her! I had no singular inspiration for her character other than my desire to make her as real as possible. I wanted her to possess admirable characteristics, but I was very careful to avoid making her too perfect. I don’t like reading about people who are fabulous at everything they do. I prefer characters that achieve their successes despite their weaknesses. Basically, I wrote Cécile to be the perfect character for ME in the hopes that others might have the same taste.

In Hidden Huntress, Cécile is back in the human world, but is still a bit out of her element as she’s now moved to Trianon. She’s living a double life, spending the bulk of her time at the opera and fitting in her hunt for Anushka where she can. While she has the help of her friends, Sabine and Chris, she’s very much reliant – even more so than in Stolen Songbird – on her own initiative. The novel is driven by just how much steel she has in her spine – especially where hard choices are concerned.

9) I think that the fan favorite characters are obviously Cécile and Tristan, but I think that my favorite character is actually Anaïs. She stole my heart, her character is filled with so much depth and she is so complex. Her fate was left in a cliff hanger in the last book and I wanted to ask if you could, maybe, comment on whether we are going to be seeing more of her in the second book?

Anaïs is one of my favorite characters, primarily because she has such complex motivations. I really liked setting her up as the mean girl, and then allowing readers to slowly discover that she’s not so easily typecast. One of my greatest regrets was not being able to fit more of her in Stolen Songbird, because I have at least a novella worth of her story up in my head. You won’t get any spoilers from me on her fate, but I will say that she has a role to play in Hidden Huntress…

10) Can you tell prospective readers out there why they should pick up your book, what you think that they would enjoy most about the series?

People who enjoy a blend of fantasy, romance, and intrigue are my favorite sort of readers, but I think it’s Cécile’s character that really captures hearts. It’s very easy to imagine yourself in her shoes, which I think helps readers lose themselves in the story.

11) Can you tell us what to expect from Hidden Huntress?

Hidden Huntress is a much darker novel – it doesn’t have the moments of levity thatStolen Songbird has, mostly because even the best natured of characters are in bad situations. Everyone is faced with tough choices, and there are nasty consequences no matter what direction they go. One of my favorite things about the novel is that readers will get much more depth and understanding of the antagonists, especially Tristan’s father.

12) Are you currently working on any other books or actively exploring ideas for other books besides your current series?

Always! I have another epic fantasy project on the go, but I’m not talking about it too much until it proves itself worthy of being read.

13) What advice do you have for aspiring writers out there?

Publishing is a really tough business, and to succeed, you need to be able to keep hustling despite rejection and disappointment. Write as much as you can. Seek out as much critique as you can find. And LISTEN to those critiques.

Originally published April 14, 2015 (via Society Cynic and The Huffington Post)

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INTERVIEW WITH INTERVIEW WITH SARA RAASCH

Author's Bio

Sara Raasch has known she was destined for bookish things since the age of five, when her friends had a lemonade stand and she tagged along to sell her hand-drawn picture books too. Not much has changed since then — her friends still cock concerned eyebrows when she attempts to draw things and her enthusiasm for the written word still drives her to extreme measures. Her debut YA fantasy novel, Snow Like Ashes, is out now. It does not feature her hand-drawn pictures, though.

1) What is the thing you love most about writing? How has writing influenced your life?

I love the outlet that writing offers. Whatever is happening in my life can go into writing— good things, bad things. It helps me process events and emotions, but most of all, it helps me persevere. I can always tell myself, “If Meira can survive a war, I can survive high school/college/this breakup/etc.”

2) Can you tell me a little bit about your writing process, and how your ideas transform to drafts, and the final product?

I always write in the morning—if I get sucked into Twitter/Tumblr first thing, it’s nigh impossible to get me to refocus.

As for my larger writing process, I outline like CRAZY. Excel spreadsheets, character sketches, lists, maps, charts—Microsoft office is my friend.

3) Do you ever encounter obstacles or challenges while you are writing? If so, how do you deal with them? Are you, for example, ever plagued by writer’s block? What kind of practical advice can you give to writers who are facing such challenges?

I enact the “push through it” method. Most of writer’s block, for me at least, stems from laziness. If I feel it creeping up, I dive into inspiration—listen to some music, stare at my Pinterest boards, and, ultimately, force myself to write. Self-discipline is HUGE in being an author. Since this career is solitary, with no boss standing over you, telling you to get your book done, it’s easy to get lax. Being able to self-motivate is invaluable, and it all comes down to telling yourself what’s what!

4) I really enjoyed your book, I truly did, and part of what I loved about it was the heroine of the book and the book’s setting. I will break the question into two. First of all, how did you come to conceive of such a unique and thrilling world because I have noticed that Young Adult Fantasy books tends to be lacking in their setting, and very character focused?

What I love most about fantasy books (well, one of the things) is that settings tend to be just as big of a character as the actual characters. Getting to add culture, traditions, scenery, outfits, food—all of this is so insanely fun!

5) Meira is a very fascinating heroine, and part of what makes her fascinating is the uncertainty that the character personifies. In the book you see her strength and her weakness, her doubts, her faults, and you come to embrace it all. It is easy to relate to her because, just like all of us, she is not perfect. What was the inspiration behind the character, and can you provide us with any information about the path that the character is going to be going down?

Meira is who I wanted to be as a teen—confident, strong, and unrelenting in what she wants. But while all of these things can be beneficial, they also get her in trouble, and so the path she goes down, throughout the next two books is her finding the balance between confidence and detrimental stubbornness.

6) I know that this is probably the most difficult question ever, but I am going to ask it anyway, because it is fun to see and learn the different ways that writers choose not to answer the question. Who is your favourite author and what is your favourite book of all time?

My favourite author is Sharon Shinn, and my favourite book is her series, the Twelve Houses. It’s an adult fantasy that I read as a teen. The world, the characters, the magic system—it all made me fall in love with fantasy, and when I reread it to this day, those books feel like coming home.

7) A character that I actually found very interesting was Conall because he is a bottle of contradictions. His ability to hope and refrain from hope, and the balance that that brings to the story is amazing. Are we going to see more of, or hear more from him, in the second book?

Oh yes! He and his brother, Garrigan, and their sister, Nessa, become very intricate to Meira’s life in both Books two and three. They become her surrogate family, in a way—since Meira has no living blood relatives, Conall and Garrigan become, sort of, her older brothers, and Nessa becomes the sister she never got a chance to have.

8) So, when I read your interview on the Huffington Post, it said that a lot of people are going to die in book two, and I completely freaked out. Can you give us just a little bit more of an insight into book two or do we have to wait till 2015, while we imagine the worst for our favourite characters?

Ha! Yes, sadly, quite a few characters end up kicking the bucket in Book two. BUT there are also a number of new characters that come into play, particularly one of my absolute favourite characters in the whole trilogy: Ceridwen, the princess of Summer. She’s just as stubborn and confident as Meira, only far more jaded and harsh, and she truly embodies the Kingdom of Summer’s fieriness!

9) Apart from the “Snow Like Ashes” series, do you have any other book ideas that you are currently exploring?

I do! I’m currently working on a YA sci-fi for my next project, but I won’t get to that for a while, yet—my major focus at the moment is drafting Book three.

10) What other advice do you have for aspiring writers out there?

Keep moving forward (and watch Meet the Robinsons as often as possible). This industry hinges on perseverance. The only difference between a published author and an unpublished author is that the former didn’t give up!

Originally published November 22, 2014 (via Society Cynic)

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Exclusive Interview With Mary Pearson

Recently, I have had the opportunity to interview author Mary E. Pearson, who has written multiple Young Adult novels, including “The Adoration of Jenna Fox,” “The Miles Between,” and “A Room on Lorelei Street.” Her latest work, “The Kiss of Deception,” is the first book in a series entitled “The Remnant Chronicles.” The second book “The Heart of Betrayal” is scheduled for release in July 2015. In “The Kiss of Deception,” the main character Princess Lia is required to marry a prince that she neither knows nor cares about—all for the sake of politics. She understands that this is the price she must pay for being a royal, but realizes that she does not want to live a life that has been imposed on her by others. And, like most young people today, she prefers to take responsibility for her own choices and mistakes, and to share her life with someone she actually loves. So, on her wedding day, Princess Lia flees the circumstances of her birth with her best friend, Pauline, renouncing the title and privileges of royalty. Of course, the thing about being a royal is that no one really forgets about you when you run away. Mary E. Pearson’s coming of age novel explores Lia’s adaptation to her new life and the new town she is so eager to call home—and along the way, she meets two very mysterious and captivating young men...

Gabriella: Can you tell me a little about yourself and your early life? Mary: I grew up in a suburb of Los Angeles, the youngest of three children, and went to all my local schools, including my local college, Long Beach State University. I was a quiet child and loved to read. It was one of the few things I excelled at, and of course loving to read very often leads to wanting to write your own stories. From an early age, I wanted to be a writer. Gabriella: When did you decide that you wanted to pursue writing as a professional career? Mary: Right out of college, but I was discouraged by my professors who said the only thing I could ever do with an English degree was be a teacher. That was the last thing I wanted to do at that point so I majored in art. It wasn’t until years and several careers later—including being a teacher!—that I finally decided to follow my dream, and took the plunge. I quit my dayjob! A crazy and scary thing to do, but it worked out for me. Gabriella: Who were your role models when you were growing up? Mary: My mother was a huge reader and always had books in the house. I’m sure that planted the seed for my love of reading and writing. And we never went on a vacation without loading up with comic books. Even in the backseat of a car there was always a story to get lost in. I was always an eclectic reader. I could open up an encyclopedia to a random page and dig in. Of course I read the classics, but it wasn’t until I happened on “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton that I knew that I wanted to write. The book made me cry, not just with the story, but by the fact that it was the first book I ever read that I felt had been written for me. Almost everything else I had read had been written by long dead authors, or for my mother’s generation. “The Outsiders” was for my generation. It made the world of writing seem more accessible. Gabriella: This is probably an unfair question, but who is your favorite author, and what is your favorite book of all time? (Mine is The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.) It is not an unfair question, just an impossible one for me. There are many, many books I love, but I really don’t have a favorite. I don’t have a lot of favorite things you’re supposed to have—like a color. How could anyone just choose one? Gabriella: Can you tell me about your writing process? Mary: My process is always evolving, but I am for the most part a very linear, seat-of-the-pants author. I start at the beginning and go to the end and I don’t always know for sure how I will get there. That said, I do plan and envision scenes, and I jot them down on Post-it notes and spread them across a white board. They give me a beacon to shoot for, but it doesn’t always happen. The first draft is the hardest, the subsequent revisions a joy, but the most important part of getting there is B.I.C.— “butt-in-chair.” I try to write every single day, weekends included if I can because it keeps the creative juices going. If I step away too long, it is very hard to sink back into the manuscript. Gabriella: I really enjoyed reading “The Kiss of Deception,” the first book of The Remnant Chronicles. What inspired the storyline for the book series? Mary: There were a whole series of small inspirations. One of them was the fact that I had just finished a series, “The Jenna Fox Chronicles,” that had a lot of futuristic technology in it. After three books of tech research, I wanted to write something that had NO technology in it! I needed a change of pace and a new challenge. The biggest piece of technology in “The Kiss of Deception” is a wagon wheel. Now that’s a change of pace. Gabriella: Do you know how many books will be in the series? Mary: There will be three books in the trilogy. The next one is “The Heart of Betrayal” which comes out July 7, 2015, and the third, which I am working on now, comes out the following year. Gabriella: “The Kiss of Deception” alternates among three different points of view—Jezelia’s, the assassin’s, and the prince’s—with Jezelia’s being the main point of view. We don’t know the identities of the assassin and the prince, until much later on in the story. I tried to guess their identities, knowing of course that either person could be Kaden or Rafe, but in the end, I was totally surprised when I found out the truth. Why did you decide to keep their identities a secret? Mary: There were a couple of reasons. One was that I wanted to put the reader fully and completely in Lia’s shoes. For me, one of the joys of reading is experiencing what the character experiences. And from what I’ve heard, a lot of readers did experience Lia’s surprise. The second reason was that I wanted to play with tropes, turn them on their ear—and in the process, challenge our assumptions. I can’t say much more than that without being spoiler-ish, but I think there were two key elements that led some readers down a certain path. (Sorry to be so cryptic, but if I say what they were, it would be a spoiler!) Gabriella: I think that my favorite character in the book, as of now, is Jezelia. Who is your favorite character, or better yet—as the author, what character do you enjoy writing the most? Mary: Same answer—no favorite. I’ve spent a thousand pages and two years with them so far. If I didn’t love them all, I’d go crazy. Even the very bad characters are delicious to write. Wait until you get to “The Heart of Betrayal!” But I do have to say I have a great fondness and hope for Lia. She’s a strong character that I’ve loved writing about and often she completely surprises even me. Once when I was writing a scene I thought, ‘you can’t say that, Lia,’ but she did anyway! She made me laugh out loud. Gabriella: Can you tell prospective readers out there why they should pick up your book, and what you think they would enjoy most about the series? Mary: I think if they enjoy fantasy stories with a bit of mystery, an unusual setting, and a strong heroine, they might want to give it a try. I hope they do!

Mary provides the following advice to aspiring young writers: 1. Read a lot. [It] goes without saying, but I will say it anyway. 2. Write everyday if you can, even if it is just ten words. 3. Show up. Set goals. Study books on craft. Go to my website for a list of some of my favorite craft books. 4. Find a critique group and listen. Every first draft is flawed, maybe almost unreadable. That’s okay. That’s what revision is for. Learn to love it. 5. Don’t give up. The only difference between a published author and an unpublished one is persistence. Hang in there!

Originally published via The People Project

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MORGAN RHODES, NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLING AUTHOR OF THE FALLING KINGDOM SERIES

© Shanon Fujioka

The Falling Kingdoms is a fantasy series for young adults that follows the lives of four teenagers, Princess Cleo, Prince Magnus, Princess Lucia, and the rebellious Jonas. The book explores the political realities of the kingdom of Mytica, as it bounds the fate of these four teenagers, in a complexly, compounded way. The book is filled with intrigue, politics, romance, rebellion, magic, betrayal, loss, and sacrifice, and, its thrilling narrative and depth-filled writing, compels the reader to keep turning the pages of the book, way past their bedtime.

1) Can you tell me about your early life, where you grew up, where you went to school, and when you realized that you wanted to be a writer?

I grew up in Southern Ontario, in a smallish town west of Toronto. I knew I wanted to be a writer as a teen when I got really good marks in creative writing, but after a year of English Lit at university, I decided I needed a more dependable profession, so I went to college for Graphic Design, which was my career for over a decade while I worked on my writing.

2) Who were your role models growing up, both within and outside of the writing world, and what inspired you to become a writer?

I can't recall any specific role models. I read lots of books, but I didn't idolize authors as a kid. As far as I can recall, the moment that made me want to become a writer was the movie Romancing the Stone...and not because Kathleen Turner hooked up with Michael Douglas. I just loved the idea of writing books for a living, as portrayed in the movie (which isn't a super accurate representation, but actually not too far from the truth). I also tended to rewrite, in my mind, the endings to movies that disappointed me, and did some very early fan fiction to a book series I read as a pre-teen. All signs pointed to WRITER.

3) I actually just discovered that you write under the name Michelle Rowen, I definitely have to check out some books you have written under that pen name. What made you decide to write under a pen name?

Yes, I am a writer of many names. Well, two, presently. The main reason for the pen name is that the feel of my Rhodes books and my Rowen books are very different. Rowen writes very quirky and romancey, while Rhodes writes multi-POV high fantasy - two genres that don't have a great deal of reader crossover. It felt different enough that two names seemed like the best way to go to avoid confusion and specific expectations.

4) I know that this is probably the most difficult question ever, but who is your favorite author and what is your favorite book of all time?

It is a difficult question! I have a lot of favorite authors, but I have to say J.K. Rowling would top them all, and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban was my favorite of that series. Harry Potter is a classic that will last the test of time.

5) I really enjoyed reading Falling Kingdoms and Rebel Spring, and I cannot wait for the third book to come out this December, and for the spinoff series coming out next summer. What inspired the storyline for this book series?

Thank you so much! After writing two dozen books as Michelle Rowen, which typically followed a single viewpoint - the heroine's - and mostly were written in first person POV, I wanted to take on a project that had a bigger canvas to play with. I wanted to get into the heads of both villains and heroes, and I wanted to write about princes and princesses and magic. High fantasy definitely fit the bill. As a kid, I'd been obsessed with movies like The Princess Bride, Legend, Willow, and other fantasies of the eighties, and more recently I'd begun to watch the grittier Game of Thrones on HBO, which I adore. Falling Kingdoms was the perfect blend of everything I'd seen and loved, and the story and characters evolved from there.

6) My favourite character in your book is Cleo, I absolutely love her and I relate to her a lot, in so many respects and on so many levels. Since I know it might be excruciatingly unfair to ask an author their favourite character in their own book, what character do you think that you relate to most in the book and why?

Good question! I'd say there's a little bit of me in every character. I think I can be stubborn like Cleo, both trusting and self-doubting like Lucia, I can definitely hold a grudge like Jonas, and Magnus...hmm. I don't have much in common with him, but he happens to be my favourite character to write.

7) Can you tell us what to expect from A Book Of Spirits And Thieves, the spinoff of the Falling Kingdom series?

I've been spending a lot of time with this book in first draft and edits and I can tell you it's unlike any book I've ever written or read before. It brings the best of both worlds (literally) in my writing, and I get to blend contemporary and high fantasy. Like FK, it's got several points of view (but only three in book one) that create a tapestry of story and character agendas that begin to weave together in unexpected ways. Two of the characters live in modern day Toronto where there is a secret society fixated on a dangerous new magic that's been discovered, but the third character lives in Mytica at the "time of the goddesses," which is a thousand years before the events in Falling Kingdoms. There will be lots of Easter eggs for readers of the original series, especially when it comes to the mythology and history hinted at in the FK books, but the two series will stand apart from each other without any confusing overlap.

8) Is there anything that readers can expect from Gathering Darkness?

Plenty! I really want to avoid spoilers, but I'll say that GD picks up almost immediately after the end of Rebel Spring. There is plenty of intrigue with the addition of Prince Ashur's sister, Amara, to the cast and we learn more about the empire of Kraeshia - are they friend or foe? There are some big moments in GD that will define the Big Four characters (Cleo, Lucia, Magus, and Jonas) going forward. And that's really all I can say!

9) Can you tell prospective readers out there why they should pick up your book, what you think that they would enjoy most about the series?

I think what sets Falling Kingdoms apart from other YA series, is that it's told from multiple viewpoints. I have four main characters and several secondary characters. Some readers have said that they were originally intimidated by my character list, but as they began reading, they found that everything fell nicely into place and they weren't confused at all. This is very important to me! I know I have a large cast, so I try to keep my "camera" focused where it needs to be. I also feel that my writing style is easy to get into. I'm a character writer, so my first priority is the interactions and conflict between my characters. It's got a medieval feel, but I am not a by-the-books historical writer - so this is not a history lesson with lots and lots of description. It's a fantasy! The magic, the court intrigue, the backstabbing (sometimes literally), the war, the romance, the friendships and family issues...this is the stuff I love to write, and I hope that comes across on the page. Another reader told me that they'd never read high fantasy before because they didn't think they'd like it - but they tried my book and it's led them to try other fantasy books. I'll definitely take that as a compliment!

10) Can you tell me a little bit about your writing process, and how your ideas transform to drafts, and the final product?

I am an outliner. I like to have my plot set before I start writing - kind of like having a map when you're going on a long road trip. For FK, each chapter is outlined - which helps since each chapter is from a specific character's POV. The great thing about writing this series is that the characters are all very real in my head, so if I come to a scene that doesn't work as well as it did in the outline, I will (to a point) allow myself to be taken in a different direction. If it works, it can, (and has!), changed the direction of a character's journey. For example, there's a new character introduced in Gathering Darkness who didn't behave anything like he was supposed to, according to the outline. He was also supposed to get killed. However, he strongly disagreed, and now he's a viewpoint character in book four (which I'm writing now)!

11) One of the hardest scenes for me to read was watching Cleo's life fall apart in the books. What has been the hardest scene for you to write in your falling kingdom series?

Cleo's losses were difficult to write, but necessary. Every one of them (especially, arguably, the first one) helped to turn her into the person she was meant to become. The hardest scene for me was probably the battle scene near the end of book one. I'd never written anything like that before and my first attempt was way too removed, like a camera on a crane pulled far back from the action. In my second attempt, I brought things down to a much more personal character level, since character to me is the most important thing in writing, and really seeing things first hand, and focusing, not on the entire battle, but the moment to moment horror of being in a situation like that seemed to work best - but it didn't make it any easier to write!

12) Apart from the Falling Kingdoms series and its spinoff, do you have any other book ideas that you are currently exploring?

My muse is never quiet. She likes to whisper shiny new ideas to me all the time. Currently, with more FK books in the works, and the A Book of Spirit and Thieves trilogy taking up my time, I can't delve too far into these distracting ideas. There is a book I need to finish and self publish under my other pen name that readers have been waiting for, for a very long time, which I try to work on in my spare moments. Otherwise, there is nothing else officially planned.

13) Would you like to write for the young adult genre for the span of your writing career, or would you like to try other genres?

I have written for both adults and young adults and enjoy each. I don't find a huge difference in my writing process when it comes to either age group. One thing my books do have in common is that they are all fantasy novels. The question might be: do I see myself writing something that isn't fantasy? I'd like to try it someday, but my ideas trend to the fantastical. So far, I've been just fine with that!

14) What advice do you have for aspiring writers out there, like myself?

My advice would be to enjoy the process of the writing itself. So many people get tangled up in the idea of being published and having an online presence and fans and all sorts of other things to do with writing, that they forget that it's all about the journey. Writing is hard work, so be sure that you love your idea and your characters, and that you're telling the story that you want to tell - no matter what it is. Make it your own and put your heart and soul into it without worrying about what the future will bring. That's when the magic happens!

Originally published September 8, 2014 (via Society Cynic and The Huffington Post)

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ANDRES SERRANO

© Irina Movmyga

1. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes, and your dislikes?

I like to keep busy, whether it's making art, taking pictures, gardening or antiquing. I always like to be doing something instead of standing still. I dislike travelling without a purpose. I travel for work, to do a project, for exhibitions, lectures, something. I’ve always fantasized about going cross-country by car, traveling from town to town to the West Coast and back. But in reality I don’t have the time, money or motivation to make such a trip.

2. When did your interest in photography begin and at what point did you decide that you wanted to pursue it professionally, as a career?

I started taking pictures after attending the Brooklyn Museum Art School, where I studied painting and sculpting when I was in my teens. After I left art school, I decided I wanted to continue as an artist but I couldn't really paint or sculpt. I was living with a girl named Millie who owned a camera, so I figured I could be an artist with a camera instead of a paintbrush. I didn't make money from my work till I hit forty.

3. I read recently that you have a musical alter ego, ‘Brutus Faust’. Can you tell me more about your musical interests and aspirations?

I've always loved music. I grew up in the era of the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, the British Invasion, Motown, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix. I would have wanted to be a singer but I didn't know anyone with a band and never learned to sing. A few years ago I decided to study singing with a music teacher and later hooked up with a band called Blow Up Hollywood, and we recorded an album. Music, like art, needs to be practiced often. It's something you have to immerse yourself in completely. Sometimes, I wish I could be Brutus instead of Andres Serrano but you need to have a reason to reinvent yourself and being Andres Serrano is easier than being Brutus Faust.

4. Your photographs have incited a lot of controversy and protest, most notably because of your use of bodily fluid against the backdrop of religiously sacred pieces. Can you comment on the artistic relevance of the pieces or the message that you are trying to convey with these types of photographs?

I distrust anyone with a message. The best artistic intentions are usually cloaked in mysteries and contradictions. It wouldn't be interesting for me if the art were not "loaded" in some way. I always say my work is open for interpretation and that's why I prefer not to read many of the "interpretations" out there. Suffice it to say, the work is like a mirror, and it reveals itself in different ways, to different people.

5. One of your most controversial works yet is the ‘Piss Christ’, and it portrays a crucifix submerged in urine, that is alleged to be yours. Is there a ‘message’ that this photograph is trying to convey and how did you deal with the resulting backlash that ensued after the piece was released?

The only message is that I'm a Christian artist making a religious work of art based on my relationship with Christ and The Church. The crucifix is a symbol that has lost its true meaning; the horror of what occurred. It represents the crucifixion of a man who was tortured, humiliated and left to die on a cross for several hours. In that time, Christ not only bled to dead, he probably saw all his bodily functions and fluids come out of him. So if "Piss Christ" upsets people, maybe this is so because it is bringing the symbol closer to its original meaning. There was a time prior to the 17th century when the only important art, the only art that mattered, was religious art. After that, there were very few contemporary art pieces that were considered both art and religious, and "Piss Christ" is one of them.

6. Your art has been seen as starting a very important conversation about the tensions between freedom of religion and artistic freedom of speech and expression. Can you comment on the tensions between these two values, and a balance of these tensions, or do you see them as not existing at all in your pieces?

Freedom of religion and freedom of expression have something in common: they both have the power to polarize people. Everyone has an opinion on these freedoms and those opinions often clash. It's the result of living in a Democracy where the people don't always share the same values or opinions. That's why it's called a Democracy, because you are free to choose.

7. Another photograph of yours that I am fascinated by is the ‘Cabeza de Vaca’ partly because I am unsure of what you are trying to symbolize in the picture. Do you mind telling me more about the   photograph?

The picture is of a cow's head on a pedestal and is called "Cabeza De Vaca" which means cow's head in Spanish. It's also the name of a 15th century Spanish explorer. I'd say I was being both literal and figurative with the title.

8. Your latest photography project, as I recently read, is a series of photographs portraying homeless people in America. Can you tell me more about the project?

It's called "Residents of New York" and they are portraits of homeless people I took on the streets in January. It's a public installation currently on display at the West 4 St. subway station and in several phone booth locations around town. More Art, an organization committed to bringing art to public spaces, sponsored it. I chose not to use the word homeless in the title, but to call them "Residents of New York" instead, in order to acknowledge them as being residents who are very much a part of the city.

9. Apart from your latest photography series, are you working on anymore photographic or musical projects?

Immediately, after shooting the ‘homeless’ portraits I went to Jerusalem for four weeks. The Jerusalem Foundation had invited me and the Musrara School of Photography to go to Israel to do some work there. I am currently working on a book of the body of work I did in Jerusalem. I love working in the summer, and have no projects at the moment. Maybe someone will invite me to do something.

10. What message or advice do you have for young artists, and youths in general, who are trying to pursue their dreams?

Keep your dreams no matter what. When I hit my twenties I turned my back on being an artist and became a drug addict instead. I stayed a drug addict until my late twenties when my biological clock told me that if I stayed in that life in my thirties there'd be no turning back. There are all kinds of ways of being an artist and there is no right way or wrong way, only your way.

Originally published June 4, 2014 (via Society Cynic and The Huffington Post)

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Exclusive Interview With Rivvrs

© Steven Bailey

San Francisco-based independent singer-songwriter Brandon Zahursky, who writes and performs under the moniker “Rivvrs,” is well known for his beautiful, heartfelt single “I Will Follow You” which was recently featured on NBC’s TV series “About A Boy.” Cheeky, introspective, and full of affection, “I Will Follow You” speaks directly to the heart of every person who has ever been in love. Characterized by the artist’s signature raspy whisper, poetic lyricism, and a humorous kind of optimism, Rivvrs’ four-song debut album “Hold On” explodes with color, rhythm, and youthful sincerity — and once again, speaks directly to the heart. In the following exclusive interview, our contributor Udoka Gabriella Okafor talks to Rivvrs about his life, his music, and his debut album—which was released on August 15, 2014.

Gabriella: Can you tell me a little bit about yourself—your likes and dislikes? Rivvrs: As a musician, it may not come as much of a surprise, but I love listening to music. I have to listen to an album start to finish. Usually a certain song attracts me and then I get the album and play it on loop for a few weeks. I don't do it as much as I used to, but I'm also a pretty avid reader. When I was a kid, I walked around with a book in my hand, whether I was at the grocery store or at a soccer game. My social life is definitely based around live music, even if I'm not performing. I love going out to see people perform. I love movies. At the end of the day, I look forward to mellowing out and falling asleep to a good movie. I really dislike driving. If I can walk or take a cab—these days, it's Uber—I prefer that. Gabriella: Tell me a little bit about your early life and your favourite childhood memories. Rivvrs: I was born in San Francisco. My dad raised my little brother and I as a single parent and we hopped around the Bay Area of California for most of my life. I graduated from Capuchino High School in San Bruno. I won't get into the details, but my mom wasn't around when I was a kid. It was just my dad, my brother and I. Because of that, my dad worked really odd hours to support us. He was usually gone from the early afternoon until we went to bed. In middle school, my uncle moved in with us to keep an eye on us kids. He's a carpenter and some of my best memories were at job sites he went to. I liked to tag along and watch, or do really simple tasks like digging holes. I don't know why—I just really liked the smell of a house being built. When I was fourteen, I got my first guitar and [started] religiously watching YouTube videos to learn how to play it. Since my dad wasn't around to tell me to do my homework after school, I usually played for hours at a time and did my work at the last minute. Early on in high school, I was a bit of an introvert and only had a handful of really good friends. One of my best friends was someone named Vince and he was my partner in crime. There were a lot of firsts that he and I experienced together, and it definitely helped me get out of my shell. My favourite memory is [of] the trips I used to take to the record store. Being a teenager, I relied on the bus and train to get me around. Every weekend, I used to take a train to Rasputin Music in Mountain View. I would buy ten to fifteen used CDs for a few bucks apiece and listen to them for a few months. I would trade the old ones in and get new ones, and I was able to get a healthy dose of music for practically nothing. A day without headphones was a weird day for me. When I was sixteen, I met a girl named Gina who was a singer. I would play guitar and she would sing. Up to that point, I was very shy with my voice and didn't really write much of my own music. When she heard me sing for the first time, she was nothing but supportive and gave me confidence to sing in front of people. I really wouldn't have had the courage to do it without her help. Other childhood favourite memories… We used to camp a lot with our family and extended family. My dad's best friends from high school are still very much in our lives and we spent a lot of time together growing up. All of our families became one and it made for really awesome get-togethers and trips. I love spending time near the water, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, anything that's outdoors. I spent a lot of time outside as a kid and still do to this day. Gabriella: Who were your role models growing up, both inside and outside of the music industry? Rivvrs: My dad listened almost exclusively to classic rock, and I fell in love with it. He was my biggest role model growing up and still is. When I was thirteen, I wanted to be Angus Young from AC/DC. I bought the electric guitar he was notorious for playing—a Gibson SG —and that's the guitar I learned on. I must have listened to the AC/DC records a hundred times each. Bon Scott, their singer, was my favorite vocalist. I also idolized people like Freddie Mercury, Jim Morrison, Paul Simon, and Tom Petty. Outside of the music industry, I had a couple of teachers who were huge role models to me: Mrs. Rutigliano and Mr. DeLacy. They were both incredible people who encouraged me to be creative and follow my dreams. Gabriella: When did you decide that you wanted to pursue music as a professional career? Rivvrs: Well, I've always wanted to pursue music—as far back as high school. I remember a conversation when I was fifteen, on a bus. My friend and I had been playing music together and we had the whole “What if we could do this for a living when we're older?!” conversation. I took it to heart and remember vowing to myself that I would never stop playing music. I remember having the idea to “pursue” music fully when I was about eighteen. I read a book called “The Celestine Prophecy” and it totally shifted my thinking and gave me this excitement to get out and experience the world. Gabriella: The first time I heard your music was on the television show “About A Boy.” How did your song come to be featured on the show and how awesome was it to hear your music on the show, knowing that millions of people were hearing it as well? Rivvrs: That was all my manager's doing. I have tremendous faith in our relationship, and his ability to kick total ass. He's a really great guy. It was very random. We were talking on the phone and he goes, "Guess what?!" and I had a hard time grasping what the placement really was until things became more official. It was very surreal to me, and I just feel incredibly blessed. Gabriella: Okay, I have to ask, what inspired the name Rivvrs? Rivvrs: Ha-ha. It's not a very interesting story. I used to go by the moniker “River Shiver.” It was kind of a band, kind of my solo project. It always felt awkward to call myself “River Shiver” on stage. I opened a show for a larger artist last year and mentioned “River Shiver” before I performed. The whole night, people called me “River,” assuming that was my name. It didn't feel as weird as I expected. In February when I got the “About a Boy” placement, my manager, Tony, told me I had to decide on a name, because it would be mentioned in the show. “Rivvrs” came up as an idea pretty naturally and my manager threw out the idea of a double “v.” For copyright purposes—and maybe some originality—we decided on the spelling R-I-V-V-R-S. It feels comfortable, and keeps the moniker pretty arbitrary. It doesn't really have any hidden meaning, otherwise. Gabriella: I know that you are a singer-songwriter, so did you write or co-write all of the songs on your debut album “Hold On?” Rivvrs: I write most of my songs on my own, but for this four-song EP, all the songs were co-written. I had all four songs started at home and brought them down to LA and sat with different writers/producers who helped me fill in the gaps. Gabriella: Can you describe your song writing process? Rivvrs: There's not really a set process. I actually really dislike the idea of sitting down to write intentionally. I feel like it's kind of forced if you do it that way. Usually it starts with a concept and an acoustic guitar. Once I know what I'm writing about, I have every lyric tie back to that same theme. For “I Will Follow You,” the first line I had was “You make it all go away” which ended up being used in the bridge. From that one line, I based the whole song around someone who makes everything bad go away. Sometimes I'll just randomly get a lyric or melody stuck in my head and I instantly record it onto my phone. After a few weeks, I go back and listen to everything and usually end up with little sparks that become full songs. Other times I can write a song in one sitting in a matter of minutes. I never know how the moment will strike. Overall, I fancy myself a strong lyricist above all. I won't be winning any awards for my guitar playing. Gabriella: Can you describe the production process that your album underwent, from draft to finished product? Rivvrs: It was really laid back! There was no set release date and no immediate plan to release “an album.” The lack of pressure was very helpful. I started writing songs and as they started to take shape, I began to record them. Each song began in my living room and ended in a music studio. I knew I wanted to do something new and I went into my writing sessions with a fresh outlook and no limit on what I could [do]. Next thing I knew, I had a bunch of songs finished. Once I finished “I Will Follow You” I set out to release a set of songs that were happy and represented hope and optimism. I used to write a lot of sober stuff, and having some upbeat material really inspired me to keep things positive and happy. I chose to release a small batch of songs to start, even though there are plenty more to be released. Consider it a teaser for what's to come. More music is coming soon!” Gabriella: Before your album was released, you published an official list of songs that were to appear on the album. One of the songs “Terrified” never made it to the album. Will we ever get to hear that song? Rivvrs: Ah, you really must have been watching closely! I regretted posting that after I released the album. “Terrified” will be on the next release. I wrote and recorded that song about two years ago and it ultimately didn't vibe well with the other four, so we cut it from the final EP. It was nothing more than a creative decision. It didn't feel right. The song is done, and will definitely be out someday. I just can't say when. I definitely love the song, though. Gabriella: How difficult and rewarding was it for you to release your first album? And what do you think are the pros and cons of being a new musician in the industry? Rivvrs: “Hold On” is technically my first album, though I have released previous material as “Brandon Zahursky” and “River Shiver.” Knowing this is the first set of songs that I am truly proud of feels like a tremendous personal accomplishment. It wasn't really difficult. It just took a lot of time to progress. I'm just grateful that people like the songs. I think as a newbie to the music industry, it's easy to be overwhelmed by what you haven't done yet. I try not to focus on that as much as [to] be grateful for the opportunities I've had. Since “Rivvrs” is a whole new thing to me, a pro is that I have this feeling of being reborn. All the old albums, the old songs—good and bad—the trials, the errors, the regrets, they're all gone because I started over. It feels amazing! It's definitely gone into the feeling of the record. Gabriella: Are you currently working on any new songs or musical projects? Rivvrs: Always! Aside from the other batch of songs that are already recorded, I have about fifteen other songs either finished or half written. I'm going to wait a bit before releasing another album, but the songs are done! Gabriella: Can you tell prospective fans why they should pick up your album? Rivvrs: I wouldn't know. I'd say that's for someone else to say. I like to think that these songs will all have one underlying tone—optimism and hope. Whether or not that separates me, I'm not sure. I just think there's so much negativity in a lot of music, and my goal is to focus on the happy stuff. Gabriella: What advice do you have for young and aspiring artists out there, or to young people in general? Rivvrs: Keep your eyes and ears closed to the world—to an extent. No one can tell you who you are. Don't be afraid to be different, or to pursue a career that isn't traditional. Also, definitely don't choose a career based on money. If you have a passion in your heart, follow that passion with every ounce of your soul and you will find happiness.

For more information about Rivvrs, please go to his website: http://www.rivvrs.com/ To purchase Rivvrs’ debut album “Hold On,” please go to:http://goo.gl/B5ImzK

Originally published via The People Project

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BRENDAN MEYER

©Keith Munyan

Hollywood and the acting industry in general is dominated by stories of instability and destruction, with respect to child-teen actors. Despicably though, we as a society tend to revel in those stories. But this theme of instability has eluded teen actor, Brendan Meyer, who was the star of the Television Show, 'Mr. Young'. He is a young actor who prides himself on a love for Shakespeare, and a career founded on unchanging passion, unrelenting determination, and a strive for continuity in an industry as unstable as the movie industry. This interview gives a preview of an actor who has risen above the teen-hollywood stereotype, that, more often than not, materializes itself. In this interview, he talks about himself, his interests, his upcoming movie and television projects, and his directorial debut. Make sure you visit Brendan's Twitter andFacebook page, in order to keep in touch with him.

1) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself to start off, your likes, and your dislikes?

I’m 19 1/2 years old and I’m an actor who loves Shakespeare and I live in Vancouver. I’m pretty much obsessed with movies, theatre, and TV. I also love reading plays in my spare time. I’m a big fan of watching golf. I dislike mean people and when my socks get wet :-).

2) When and how did you decide to start acting?

I’ve always enjoyed telling stories and from a young age, it’s something I’ve always felt I wanted to do. As I’ve gotten older it has continued to grow as my passion.

3) A lot of child-teen actors and actresses do not cope very well in the industry. I don’t know if this is a trend amongst child actors or if it is just symptomatic of the aggressiveness of contemporary tabloids. Either way, you have managed to remain afloat, how do you cope within the industry?

I have a great family who keeps me grounded and are there to help me out with everything. I just try to stay focussed on the part that I enjoy, the work.

4) Who are your role models both in the movie-television industry but also outside of the industry?

My biggest role models are my mom, dad, and brother because they’re so supportive and great. Inside the industry, I’m a big fan of the careers of Leonardo DiCaprio, George Clooney, and Kenneth Branagh.

5) You have been featured in a number of films and television shows. But to date, I believe that ‘Mr. Young’ is your most prominent work. Can you tell me about your experiences working on the show?

It was an amazing experience to work on Mr. Young. The entire cast and crew were fantastic. I loved doing the live audience shows because it’s a great blend of film and theatre. It was such a privilege to have a steady job as an actor for that long!

6) I know that you are Canadian, do you still live in Canada and, if so, do you find that it is difficult to juggle living in Canada and sometimes having to work in the United States?

Yes, sometimes it is very tough. I currently live in Vancouver, but I am from Edmonton. I really just moved here to do Mr. Young so I’m used to being all over the map, without a definite ‘home’, if you know what I mean. I spent two months last summer in New Mexico filming my upcoming movie The Guest, so we’re used to being on the road.

7) Do you hope to continue acting as a future career or are there other interests that you will like to explore?

I’m hoping to continue acting for the rest of my life and the only thing I can see adding to it would be directing and writing. My directorial debut, the short film, A Job, will be coming out at the Montreal World Film Festival this summer.

8) Are you working on any future television or movie projects?

I’ll be appearing in two episodes of CW’s The 100 and was just recently seen in Starving in Suburbia on Lifetime. The Guest, with Dan Stevens and Maika Munroe, directed by Adam Wingard, will be coming out this fall via Picturehouse. Right now I’m just auditioning a lot and hoping to get another break!

9) What advice do you have for youths out there that are trying to pursue their interests and dreams, whatever they may be?

If you really are passionate about something don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. As far as acting goes, I think it’s important to study the great movies and plays, and really know the history of your business. This advice applies to whatever career you want to pursue. Ultimately, if you’re not having fun and/or gaining fulfillment from your interests, it’s probably not worth doing.

Originally published May 16, 2014 (via Society Cynic and The People Project)

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH JOEL DE LA FUENTE

Joel de la Fuente is an actor that currently stars on the Emmy nominated show Hemlock Grove. It is a morbidly captivating show that explores a lot of the themes that tend to entrance us, such as fantasy, mystical creatures, and love. The show leaves its viewers grappling with these themes in a way that leaves them begging for more. Apart from hemlock grove, Joel also works on other artistic projects and is an avid classical theatre performer, with slight consequential leanings. He believes in happiness above all else, and in everyone's duty to promote happiness. This belief has both informed the love and passion he brings to his career as an actor, and it has left echoes of a message that he wants the whole world to vibrate along with. Make sure to catch up with season one of Hemlock Grove on Netflix, and join the rank of fans impatiently anticipating the return of the second season of the show.

1) So, I watched Hemlock Grove on Netflix, and I found it morbidly intriguing and watching the cast was a delight. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes, and dislikes?

Hi!  Thanks for watching.  I’m originally from the North Shore of Chicago and I have essentially lived in the New York City area for the last 23 years or so (with the occasional sojourns away for work).

2) Most aspiring actors/actresses simply start acting but I actually believe that there is an informed experience that comes from studying your art in an institution. You know this better than anyone because I read that you studied Theater Arts at Brown University. How will you describe the experience?

Acting is interesting, in that it requires skill, talent, and appetite.  Talent is useful, but one needs technique to manifest that talent.  Some people possess an inherent sense of technique, but many of us must learn it like any other trade.  This is where studying becomes useful.  I would credit my training at the Grad Acting Program at NYU for giving me a set of tools to enable me to do my job, regardless of my level of inspiration.

My time at Brown was invaluable for a slightly different reason.  Yes, taking acting seriously is important – but so is living life fully.  If you have all the technique in the world, it will mean nothing if you have no personal experience from which to draw on.  College is one way for people to explore:  socially, academically, and spiritually.   It is a safe environment to take risks.  Live life first.  Act second.

3) Can you tell me about your experience as being a part of the National Asian American Theatre? What is the goal of the project and how has it informed the actor that you are today, or the actor that you aspire to be?

NAATCO’s mission statement (which has changed slightly over the past few years) was to put on the best plays in the Western canon – the “classics,” as it were – and to do them with Asian American casts.  Since there was (and is) a dearth of opportunity for Asian American actors, how can they hone their craft, how can they improve, how can they test themselves with such little opportunity?  By doing the best plays in the western theater, not only would it create an opportunity for Asian American actors, it would give them fantastic material to work with.

For me, NAATCO has been an artistic home over the years, an invaluable gift for an actor.  Without NAATCO, I may never have had an opportunity to play roles like Iago in “Othello” or the title role in Chekhov’s “Ivanov.”  Both experiences had profound impacts on me as a person and as an actor.

4) I read on your website that you are ‘an avid classical theater performer”. I presume that it is quite different from acting on television shows. Do you prefer acting on television or being in the theater, or do you get completely different experiences from both?

Honestly, it is just great to work.  It’s great to have a chance to act.  It’s great to have people want to come see things that I am in.  So, if I’m working anywhere, I’m happy.

That said, there’s nothing quite like performing in front of a live audience, sharing something with a community of your fellow citizens.  There’s nothing like being present (as an actor or audience member) for an event that is inherently special, because it was done just for the people in that room. That’s theater.

Television really increases the number of people who can see one’s work.  It’s really amazing to know that literally millions of people are going to see what you and your fellow actors create!  Plus, it pays the rent.

5) Yet another interesting thing that I found out about you is that you are a writer. Can you relay your experiences as a writer to me, as well? What do you write about? Will you consider yourself as a writer independent of your acting or does one depend on and fuel the other?

Writing, for me, is hard.  I enjoy doing it until it gets hard, then I run screaming from it until it tracks me down and makes me do more.  Before I die (hopefully well before), I will begin finishing the things I write.  Then the world will rejoice, and I will get my own pet unicorn.

6) Hemlock Grove is a weirdly captivating show. It is a very atypical show in a lot of respects, but I quite like it. How did you get the role of Dr. Johann Pryce and how much preparation did you have to go through to prepare for that role or any role really that you get on television?

The short and simplified version of how I ended up in “Hemlock Grove” is that I randomly made a video of myself doing a Morgan Freeman impersonation and put it on Facebook.  Then, a friend I had not talked to in fifteen years saw it while at a wedding in Mexico and showed it to someone who ended up being the head of the studio that was producing “Hemlock Grove.”  Because of that video, she tossed my name into the casting process, and I ended up getting the role.

7) Is there anything that you are at liberty to discuss concerning the second season of hemlock grove in terms of what to expect or what themes the season will be encompassing and exploring?

There’s nothing I can really say other than many of the questions left hanging in season one will be answered quite definitively in season two.  If you’re interested in what goes on in the White Tower, you will be a very happy camper in season two.

8) Hemlock Grove has a fairly large fan base, especially given the two Emmy nominations that the show received- congratulations of that by the way. Do you ever feel the pressure of trying to appease and hold on to that fan base whenever you are preparing for your part on the show?

I am concerned about playing Pryce in a way that serves the overall story of “Hemlock Grove.”  There are so many aspects in and around that concern me but that I have no control over, and I try my best to focus on the things I can control.  That’s an ongoing struggle, though.

9) Are you working on any future television, movie, or theater projects?

I’ve been doing a one-person play for the last year and a half called, “Hold These Truths” by Jeanne Sakata.  I will be taking it to North Carolina in April and hopefully to other places in the future.  It’s a very special piece, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.

10) What advice do you have for young artists- musicians, actors/actresses, writers- and any youth really trying to pursue their dreams?

I think we have a responsibility to promote happiness.  When we’re happy, we can make others happy.  And if we’re not trying to make others happy, why are we on this planet, anyway?  A big part of this means finding out what you love, whom you love, why you love and taking it seriously.  If acting is your dream, then be serious about pursuing it.  It can be a long and hard road – so don’t forget why you started pursuing it in the first place.  And if it stops being something that makes you happy, then find something else.

Originally published March 11, 2014 (via Society Cynic)

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH GLASS PEAR

Glass Pear is a musician that understands how the television world can intersect quite vividly with the music world to grant either or both the exposure that they need. His music has been featured on shows such as 'The Vampire Diaries', 'Bones', 'Grey's Anatomy', amongst others. His music feeds and vitalizes those moments on television when our emotions are high and we desperately need a medium to express how we feel. He has released various albums, EPs, and singles, which include, 'Sweet America', 'Glass Pear', and 'Streets of Love'. His musical yearnings and intellectual drive has gone on to inform and create the music persona that knows how to balance a rushing confluence of joy, sadness, happiness, pain, love, amongst other emotional contradictions. It is exciting to know that such a musician exists and, this interview will leave you with both a greater understanding of his story, but also a strong anticipation for his future musical projects. So, make sure to keep in touch with him on his Facebook and Twitter Page.

1) I have been listening to your albums and EPs, and I have to say that I have really enjoyed your music. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes, and your dislikes?

Thank you. I'm a little under 6ft, have thick curly black hair and friends tell me I grin too much. I grew up in Wales and now live near Oxford in England. I've got a loopy 8 month year old son who loves fruit almost as much as me. On my worst days I can be overbearing, righteous and aloof. On my best days I am a fun-loving prankster with a no holds barred imagination.  I studied Theology at Cambridge University, worked for several years at an investment bank, then jacked it in to become a painter of songs. I love learning. I've been using Coursera recently  which is an awesome on-line resource. I dislike bias, prejudice, a lack of realism and flakiness. I like feisty debates and honest criticism. I like the richness of diversity, the fact that people and cultures are radically different.

2) Okay, I have to ask, what is the story behind the name of your musical alias ‘Glass Pear’?

The name Glass Pear originated from Adi Da Samraj, whose spiritual and philosophical teachings I practice. The "Glass Pear" was a room in his house. Apparently the ancient Chinese believed that the pear was a symbol of immortality (pear trees live for a long time). Its also a symbol of affection in other cultures. In Chinese the word li means both “pear” and “separation,” and for this reason, tradition says that to avoid a separation, friends and lovers should not divide pears between themselves. So I feel that a "Glass Pear" is a pear that is fragile and breakable, needing protection - just like love and affection - or else separation results.

3) I know that you and your sister, Jem, are both in the music industry. When did you discover your love for music, and who have been your influences and role models when trying to discover your identity in the music world?

Very young. We had a "music room" in our house. There was a piano and acoustic guitar to begin with. My dad would strum Dylan and the Beatles without knowing all the words. Jem began writing little ditties on the piano, sometimes with my other two sisters. Gradually we got recording equipment in and I began to write awful songs of my own. At the time I was very influenced by the Smiths and Morrissey, then Suede, David Bowie, Depeche Mode, the Pixies, Radiohead and many others. I thought the first Coldplay album was beautiful and it definitely affected my songwriting. But it took a long time for me to discover my own singing voice. I was in various different bands until I started writing Glass Pear songs in 2007.

4) Your music has been featured in a few topical shows like ‘The Vampire Diaries’, ‘Bones’, ‘90210’, and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. What was your experience like hearing your music in these shows and knowing that whole worlds of people are listening to it as well?

Its a great feeling to write a song in a little room and then get it heard by millions of people sitting in front of their TV sets all over the world. I haven't had any radio exposure so I feel really blessed to get songs in these shows so that lots of people get to hear them.

5) You created your own record label, ‘Wol Record’, and it is through this label that you release your music. How difficult and/or rewarding is it having your own record label?

On the whole its pretty easy, depending on how much you want to dig into promotion. If you're just releasing tracks and not touring, you can just release everything through a digital aggregator like Tunecore. I was incredibly lucky to get all the synchs I have and at the same time own all the sound recording rights, this made not giving the rights away to another label a wise investment. However, there are real limits in not having recourse to a larger promotional budget and staff. I've relied very heavily on the exposure the music has got through the TV synchs, but I haven't developed a strong fan base through touring and/or radio plays. If you are trying to do everything including touring by yourself in your own label, I'm sure it would be extremely difficult financially. I took the decision a while back that I'm happy to survive and make my music even if I remain relatively "small". If I can keep making enough profit to plough back into the next recording, so that I can keep making music for decades to come, I'd be really happy.

6) You have released quite a few singles, EPs, and albums throughout your career, can you highlight a bit of the production process both in terms of the artistic part of the music production but also the management aspect?

There are two stages, kind of comparable to pregnancy and labour. Once the Muse and I have conceived, the song gets incubated in my bedroom studio. I develop a demo in which I flesh the rhythm, string, guitar and bass ideas. I also write new parts and scrap old parts (a bit of genetic engineering). Then I record in a guide vocal and develop harmonies. In the later stages I take the demo to the nursing staff Tash and Tom (my co-producers). Tom is an all-round musical and production genius. Tash is a drummer born of heaven. They add their musical ideas to the demo and that's when the difficulty of labour really begins. Together we pick the best parts of all our ideas, throw away the worst or the merely mediocre, instigate arguments, justify tantrums and get stroppy. Once the baby has moved into position, we proceed to record all the chosen parts to master quality, usually one track at a time. In the final mix, somehow the little song cherub always gets delivered perfectly formed, despite my screaming!

7) What according to you are the pros and cons of pursing a career in music?

I never really thought about it in those terms. I do it because I love it, I didn't really consider the risks. I've always lived doing things I love to do because I'm interested and passionate about them. My problem is that I'm interested in too many different things! This means that sometimes I find making music too isolating as you spend so much time alone in the studio.  On the flip side its a beautiful thing to write a song and have messages back from someone in Malaysia saying how much it meant to them. If I can touch or lift up the spirit of anyone through music then I'm a happy man.

8) Are you currently working on any musical projects?

I've got some songs I've co-written with my sister Jem for her new album coming out later this year. I'm also longing to get back in the studio to record new Glass Pear songs in 2014!

9) What advice do you have for young artists out there who are trying to pursue their musical career, or youths who want to follow their dreams in general?

Keep writing, get better. Be willing to criticize and have criticized what you've created, reach deeper until its the best music that you can express at this moment in your life. Learn your craft. Melody is an art, music is a language, great lyrics are powerful. Reach out to collaborate, and if you find a great partner, value them. The right collaborator is very hard to find. Have fun creating your music, laugh, presume no limits and grasp for the indefinable "magic" of being truly creative. Love what you do and what you do will be loved by others.

Originally published February 4, 2014 (via Society Cynic)

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Exclusive Interview With Davis Mac-Iyalla, the Nigerian LGBT Rights Activist Fighting to Redefine Religion

Udoka Okafor: Tell me a little bit about yourself, your likes, your dislikes, your philosophies, and your early life.

Davis Mac-Iyalla: I am a kind and honest person. I like swimming and cooking for my friends. I dislike lies and any form of homophobic behaviors. My philosophy is equality and fairness, and a consequence of that philosophy is a hope to see the day when gay and straight persons would live together peacefully, without any form of discrimination. I started my early life in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. My life was good, and my family was the best. My growing up, my community and my network of friends were all amazing, as well.

Okafor: You and one of your closest friends from Changing Attitudes Nigeria were brutally attacked. Is that the event that made you seek asylum in the United Kingdom?

Mac-Iyalla: I started getting homophobic attacks as early as 2005 and had to relocate to Togo in West Africa for a while. Then my sister Akoliba died in 2008, and I could not attend the funeral because of the profile that my sexuality had attracted, but my good friend Stephen, who was also leading the local Changing Attitude group, was there to represent me. Those after me, maybe because I was not there, violently attacked my friend and told him to tell me that there was no hiding place for me, and that homosexuality is a taboo and those who promote it will suffer for it. When I got the news, I was so terrified, but a few weeks after that incident, I was physically attacked and assaulted, and the scars of that attack still reside on and within me. Those that attacked me did not stop me from attending the Lamberth Confrence 2008, where I wanted the African LGBT voices to be heard. While in the UK, I got a threatening email telling me to never come back to Africa again or I would be attacked again, to my death. I showed this to the police and sought advice, one which revealed that asylum was my only option, having been attacked in both Nigeria and Togo. West Africa was not safe for me anymore; seeking asylum was one of the most painful decisions I have ever had to make in my whole life.

Okafor: What impact do you believe Gene Robinson's ordination as a bishop had on your activism? What other events instigated your activism for LGBT rights, beyond your sexual orientation?

Mac-Iyalla: I and some other persons started organizing the LGBT Nigeria movement since 1998. Some of us had ties with ILGA [International Association of Gay and Lesbians] before the media became aware that there was any movement for gay rights activism in Nigeria. Most of our work then was done discreetly. The first openly LGBT organization in Nigeria is Alliance Rights, which I was a part of it. Bishop Robinson's ordination had a great impact on my faith and activism, because before his ordination, all we hear from the Nigerian bishops and Church of Nigeria is that homosexuality is a sin. Gene Robinson's ordination gave me faith and hope as a gay Christian. It stirred up within me the desire to start campaigning for LGBT rights within and outside the church.

Okafor: Do you think that the more people that come out as LGBT people in Nigeria, the weaker the discrimination against the LGBT community will be? I ask because you mentioned in one of your articles in The Guardian that Archbishop Akinola was, at that time, not even willing to accept that LGBT people exist in Africa.

Mac-Iyalla: Absolutely, yes. Because of family and social acceptability, most gay and lesbian Nigerians are still living in denial, a life that exists in a closet. The more people that know the persons behind the masks, the more tolerance and acceptance they might show towards us. It's not easy to change attitudes, but I know that coming out is one of the routes to change attitudes in Nigeria towards LGBT people.

Okafor: People tend to use religious justifications as a means to heighten discrimination in Africa. Based on your understanding of the Bible, should this be the case? Also, are some of the values in the Bible, when considered in their literal sense, obsolete? Do they not need to be contextualized to our contemporary times, or ignored altogether?

Mac-Iyalla: As for the Bible and scripture, I just try to do my best to live the way I believe a good person should and leave "the book" to others who do a great job twisting it into what they want to believe. I do use pieces to point out their imperfections, though, when they use it as a weapon against homosexuals. I have said it before, and I would say it again: If you want to live completely by the principal of the Ten Commandments, then show me where it was written that "thou shall not be gay."

Okafor: In your opinion, what are the next steps that ought to be taken by the church, and the states in Africa, to further propel the discussion of LGBT rights and ensure that their debate has policy impacts on the legislative, judicial, and cultural system?

Mac-Iyalla: The African church must open its mind to honest conversations. The African bishops need to stop doing the talking and start listening to the LGBT people. We are not making much progress with the debate in Africa because most of our African bishops have affiliated themselves with right-wing conservative Christians from the United States and other parts of the Western world, people that are telling them not to reason with the LGBT community, but rather to use the old understanding of the scriptures as a means to its interpretation.

Okafor: How do you think that the LGBT community in Nigeria can claim back their space within the African community and cease to be alienated from the African scene by phrases such as "being gay is un-African"? And what role do you think that youth activists can play in this progression?

Mac-Iyalla: The Nigerian LGBT community is not united. We must first find a way to settle our differences. I have never believed that being gay is un-African, but we need to educate our people. LGBT youth need role models that they can look up to. Lastly, and most importantly, before you talk to and demand that people should accept and respect you, please learn to accept yourself first.

Originally published October 30, 2013 (via The Huffington Post)

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DANA GAIER

© Universal Pictures

Udoka: Firstly, I just have to commend you, the cast, and the crew of the ‘Despicable Me’ franchise, you guys did an amazing job and I truly enjoyed the movie. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, what are your likes and dislikes?

Dana: I just turned 16 years old. I’ve been performing for as long as I can remember.  There’s a story that when I was 9 months, I started playing with a kiddie guitar and singing the Backstreet Boys “I want it that way.”  I love singing and playing the guitar, as well as acting.  I also like sports and I played lacrosse and field hockey in high school.  I dislike girl drama and started a website called GYourB.org to help other teens get through bullying and mean girl drama.  I think we need to stick together & empower each other instead of putting each other down.

Udoka: When did you decide that you wanted to go into acting and do you think that you would want to continue acting as a profession?

Dana: I’ve always loved acting, but I didn’t want to do it professionally when I was younger.  I loved being in community theater and taking classes there.  Once, when I was 5, a talent manager saw me in a pizza place and I was busy running, talking to all different tables, and she gave my mom her card to call her.  At that time, neither of us felt I was ready for that kind of commitment.  But years later, I decided I wanted to start auditioning professionally.  Despicable me was actually one of my first auditions, and it happened when I was about 11.  I love every part of performing and would love to keep doing it.  If I’m not going to be performing, I would love to do something in the industry, like maybe, being a casting director.

Udoka: Who do you look up to, both as an actor and a person? Where does the drive and inspiration to act come from?

Dana: Right now, I really look up to Jennifer Lawrence.  She is amazing and can play so many, different roles.   She’s great in both comedies and dramas. She’s also not afraid to be herself.  I think she is so real in her interviews and I totally love that.

Udoka: Do you prefer voice acting to acting in anyway? Also, how amazing was it working on the ‘Despicable Me’ movies along side Steve Carell, Elsie Fisher, and Miranda Cosgrove?

Dana: Voice acting and Acting are so different.  First of all, I don’t have to memorize in voice acting, but I do have to imagine the scene around me.  In acting, you are actually in the scene with other actors.  When I record for Despicable Me, I record alone in the booth and I Skype with the Directors because they are working in Paris.  I love both live acting and voice acting and I am hoping more opportunities come my way.  Even though I didn’t’ get to record with Steve, Miranda and Elsie, I have had the chance to spend time with them at premieres.  Steve Carell is the greatest guy.  The first time I met him, he interrupted the paparazzi that was photographing him, just to come up to me to say “Finally. I finally get to meet you!” He made my day.  He’s just so nice.  I’ve spent a little more time with Miranda and Elsie because we actually had to spend a lot of time together when the Minion Mayhem ride opened up at Universal Orlando.  We got to ride it so many times together.  Miranda is awesome and really encouraging. And Elsie, she’s like my little sister.  Love her! The first time we met, she asked me if we could have a ‘play date’ after she recorded her part.  She is so much fun and we all have had some great laughs together. At the last premiere we were taking ‘selfies’ together. It was so funny.

Udoka: I read from your bio that you are in the tenth grade and you are an honor’s student, does your acting get in the way of school, and how do you tackle the challenges, if any?

Dana: Actually, I am in the 11th grade now.  This year is really tough. I just started at a new school because I moved to LA, and I’m taking a lot of AP classes and honors classes and then when you add in auditions, show choir, SAT prep, and getting my driver’s license, it means a lot of balancing.  But I also think that when you have a lot of balancing to do, you learn to be more efficient with your time.  I’m learning to set aside certain times for certain things. I’m hoping that I am able to manage it all, but if there’s an issue, my schoolwork will have to come first.

Udoka: You are a singer, songwriter, and a guitar player; do you ever plan to pursue music as a career?

Dana: I would love a career in music as well.  I haven’t had the time to write songs recently, but I’m hoping to get back to it, and get into the studio to record.  I do train with a voice teacher, and I sing everyday in show choir.

Udoka: You are an anti-bullying advocate and you host your own website ‘Got your back’, why and how did you get involved with anti-bullying advocacy? Did you ever have any personal experiences with bullying yourself?

Dana: I started Got Your Back because as I entered middle school I found myself in the middle of a lot of girl drama and bullying, which I explain on the website. I decided that I wanted to use what I was learning about myself and about friendship and bullying, to help other teens.  I encourage them to write on the blog, and to tell their story, ask questions or help other teens.  No one should have to put up with being treated poorly

Udoka: You are still very young, but do you, no matter how cursory, have any plans for yourself, going forward?

Dana: I plan to keep doing what I’m doing: working hard at school, trying to educate others on bullying, and hopefully acting and singing.  I do want to go to college, so I’m starting to prepare for that as well.

Udoka: What have you learnt from your character, Edith, on ‘Despicable Me’, and how much do you think your character can teach other youths out there?

Dana: Edith is a determined kid, who isn’t afraid to be her own person.  She’s a bit of a tomboy, and what’s kind of ironic is that she loves to wear pink.  I like that about her.  She’s not a cookie-cutter kid; she’s different.  She loves to pretend she’s a ninja. And even though she tries to act tough (and she is pretty tough), she is also a loving sister and daughter.  She gets into trouble, but it’s because she’s adventurous.  She is the kind of girl that other girls can relate to. Other kids can learn from Edith that it’s okay to be different, and to not be afraid to try things (but within the bounds of reason).

Originally published September 17, 2013 (via Society Cynic)