thefriendterview

[thefriendterview]

EVERYDAY RUNWAY: MOSHÉ ALPERT

Thx, VainStyle, for waking me up w this sweet piece on .. me?! ... better than coffee xx 

“Style must be in his DNA. There is something refreshing about seeing someone on the street that looks and feels as if they belong on a runway. When you have street style, you have it, so why not flaunt it?

We ran into Moshé Alpert downtown in New York City and couldn��t help but obsess with this ensemble from head to toe. We had to ask him where he found these pieces he put together so we could put them on our wish list.” 

http://vainstylemag.com/everyday-runway-moshe-alpert/

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📸: @antoinette_andrea ✨

[thefriendterview]

Theater Review: Staceyann Chin’s ‘MotherStruck’

The recent run of the StaceyAnn Chin starring, MotherStruck, at The Lynn Redgrave Theatre, not only broke static, societal boundaries, in the end it proved to be revolutionary.

A huge critical success, the show has received praise from the The New York Times, The Village Voice and Timeout Magazine. Self described as a “Jamaican-Born, Brooklyn-Living, Woman-Loving, Writer/Poet, Political Activist and Performance Artist. Single Mama,” StaceyAnn Chin’s long and varied career has included writing and performing for Def Poetry Jam, numerous performances and literature, an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, and the writing of her critically acclaimed book, The Other Side of Paradise – A Memoir.

Backed by the CultureProject, directed by Cynthia Nixon, and produced by Rosie O’Donnell,  MotherStruckallowed Chin to bare the entirety of her soul underneath the glare and heat of a theatre’s stage lights. Gayness, Blackness, international status, motherhood as a gay woman, gentrification in New York and Brooklyn, and the struggles of surviving financially in such an ever-changing real estate market, especially when one wants to mother a child, were some of the themes and motifs explored.

Chin’s MotherStruck was, in essence, a leading one-woman show example of how highly funded and produced Broadway, and Off-Broadway productions can be.  When all stories are given a chance, an opportunity to be shared, that day is the one when CultureProject’s mission of socially conscious theater is met.

For more information visit here: http://cultureproject.org/current/motherstruck/

-Moshé

http://theknockturnal.com/staceyann-chin-motherstruck/

[thefriendterview]

Eidos Presents Fall 2016 Presentation

Recently, February’s New York Fashion Week Men’s Fall/Winter 2016 presentations hosted the upcoming collection of pieces by Eidos, the passion project – turned brand, of Anotonio Ciongoli, the creative director.In partnership with ISAIA, but with their own separate identity, Eidos came to fruition three years ago, launching a full menswear collection of New York City designed, Italian manufactured pieces.

With the specific vision of creating a fusion between American heritage sportswear, and classic, tailored pieces, as he found the former to be overdone in the fashion world, Ciongoli approached ISAIA three years ago in order to produce a both rugged, yet refined, elegant product. Inspired by films such as: Casablanca, Ciongoli’s mission is to construct pieces that fuse the softness and silhouette of the Neapolitan suit, with the materials of a harsher nature, like heavy twill, a clear nod to the inspiration he also derives from English fashion culture.

The presentation in SoHo, NYC, of the A/W 2016 collection, certainly lived up to the high standards of the Eidos brand’s aesthetic. As the media spectators milled around the room, observing and photographing the row of male models adorned in Eidos latest pieces, one could not only easily observe the high level of detail and specialty Italian craftsmanship that went into the construction of the collection, but also the story of classical European culture Ciongoli bases them around each time. With mostly neutral, muted colors used, along with the variances in texture, each unique silhouette cut a refined and distinguished, yet quite tough, look all at once. 

As one of the official Eidos slogans reads “Eidos is the essence of something’s being — its idealized form — it’s soul,” which everyone with a passion for fashion knows to be true, as it is emulated through whatever garment combination one decides to wear, the collection was the perfect expression of the innermost aspects of being a human. The ruggedness, the strength, the power, in addition to the vulnerability, the beauty, the refinedness, the classical nature – things that speak to the soul.

- Moshé

http://theknockturnal.com/eidos-presents-fall-2016-presentation/

[thefriendterview]

Ria Boss

Born in London, raised in Ghana, and moved to New York City at the age of 18, Ria Boss is a singer/songwriter with a wealth of experience and culture to draw from. Reflected in her music, self-described as ambient, neo-soul, house, boom bap, and r&b, is the passion and vibrancy of a woman on the forefront of innovative, experimental, refreshingly original content creation. The highly intelligent, fascinating, beautiful, intriguing, and genial Ria Boss is currently setting stages ablaze across New York City. With her success and varied accomplishments growing, TheFriendterview was lucky to recently speak with this artist to tell her story in her own words.

Q. How did you get into music? When and how did you find your voice and decide to become an artist?

I grew up with veterinarian dreams like every kid that is obsessed with animals, so music wasn’t something that was at the forefront of my mind. But I remember I used to sing along to all my favorite Disney movies, favorite songs of the time. It wasn’t until one rainy drive with my mom on the Tema motorway (in Ghana), I think I was 9 or 10, that I realized I might have a gift. I had just seen the movie ‘Annie’ and I had just learned the song ‘Tomorrow’. Since it was a rainy day the radio service was a little spotty in the car. I was amusing myself by singing the song and my Mom all of a sudden sort of looks at me in a weird way and then tells me “Maria, you have a true voice. I had no idea what that meant. She went on to explain that I could sing things exactly as I heard them. Personally, I didn’t think that was a gift…I guess I assumed everyone could do that. It was after that day however that I started paying way more attention to my voice, trying to mimic everything I heard, challenging myself to sing Stevie Wonder songs, Bibie Brew songs, Sade songs, the list goes on. It wasn’t until I watch the Destiny’s Child documentary, you know the one? Where they show you all the rigorous training they did as a group? The running while you jog, the constant vocal training? I started doing all these, secretly mind you, I was a little shy of my voice, but even in secret I knew I was onto something. I started to take myself much more seriously in high school and college, and my artist self was born in 2012.

Q. What you are you currently working? What do you have coming up?

Well the past few months I have been somewhat preoccupied with my art works. I have recently jumped back into my love of abstract illustration, and released a series of prints under the collection ‘The Things We Say to Mask the Pain’ on my art site The Art of Being Ria. The project was inspired mostly by my daily struggles with depression and anxiety and how in public spaces I feel the need to suppress those vulnerabilities. Its been an amazing process because in sharing these pieces I have also been able to  cultivate healthy ways to be honest about how I’m truly feeling. It is important in life that we are honest in our communications at all times regardless of how we may think it may come across. The constructs surrounding emotions can be very binding, we need to learn to give each other a little more support. I have also been working on a project with my friend and collaborator Abel Shifferaw (DJ Inward/eastoaklandjq). We work together as a duo under the name ADISACRA, and have finished all tracks to release our very first EP. We have to have the music mixed and work on all our visuals, no dates have been set but that is another thing in the works. I also have a show Tuesday Nov 3rd, for the Sound Chamber at Friends and Lovers in Brooklyn, followed by a headlining show December 10th at Leftfield, a venue I have played at a few times before.  I am also working on a solo EP which I hope to drop before the year is out, mainly because I want people to get more of a sense of the direction I’m going in. Expect a lot of neo-soul nuances!

Q. So far, what are your most proud career accomplishments?

One of my proudest moments is getting to perform at The Brooklyn Museum at First Saturdays! It was for the opening of Ghanaian artist El Anatsui’s exhibition and I was just honored to be considered. The reception I got was nothing short of amazing. Another I would say is performing as backup for Nappy Nina and The Sons at the Soul of Bk festival. It was my first time on a festival stage, and getting to hang out behind the scenes as an artist. We were opening for Bilal, and being able to just have very down to earth interactions with musicians I admire was an amazing experience for me. Another accomplishment is more recent, I have almost hit 20,000 total plays on my Soundcloud! To some that might mean not mean anything, but to me, its completely humbling to know that people genuinely love my music enough to play it over and over again. It means that I’m onto something. And on the days I’m feeling low, or lost, I like to remind myself of these accomplishments.

Q. What influences you?

I am an impulsive Sagittarius woman (right on the cusp so I have a little Scorpio in me), that being said, in my life, I’ve gained influences from a lot of different things, depending on my mind state of the time (if that makes sense). However, I am very much a romantic, hopelessly so. So in all things that is one of the underlying influences, that being said, life is a tumultuous little bitch aint she? I am so very affected (influenced) by everything around me, my interactions with people, my lows, my lower than lows, my ups, my fears, my frustrations. My best friend says I’m overly emotional and I think its because I’m that much more sensitive to everything.

Q. Who are some artists that inspire you?

Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone (my queen), Sade, Missy Elliott, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, Frank Ocean, Adele, Sia, Hugh Masakela, Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti, and everything Soulection. (there are wayyyy more artists that inspire me to be honest but this is a little section)

Q. You’re such a traveler! How have your international travels influenced your career and what have they been like?

Man do I love to travel! I have been fortunate enough to have been able to travel almost all over the world from when I was really young. My grandmother used to take me everywhere she would go, Hawaii, Slovenia, Germany,  Austria, the UK, the US, you name it, I went with my Grandmother. Being able to go to all these places (in some cases to visit family) really opened my eyes, from an early age. In terms of my career, travel is important for me in that it just helps me understand the world from varying perspectives. That helps when I write, because I can observe all different kinds of human interactions based on where in the world I am. Seeing couples in Paris versus seeing couples in Germany, taking long walks alone in Hawaii and meditating by the sea, all these things help me.

Q. What are some of your career goals at the moment?

Main career goal right now is to put together an amazing EP that does well all on its own. An EP so good that it gets me all the festival gigs I aspire to perform! I really want to play at AfroPunk, it would be a dream come true for me, I’d also really love to be able to go on a tour. My dream tour would be opening for King or Lianne La Havas or definitely The Internet!

Q. Who in the industry would you like to work with?

Work wise I really want to get in the studio with Iman Omari, his production skills are heavenly to me, I feel my style over his production would be an amazing pairing. I’d also love to sit in the studio with Rick Rubin, I would want him to tell me where my strong points are, what I should be working on more. I want to work with Missy Elliott so bad!!! I also think Sza and I on a song would be epic.

Q. How does the scene in New York compare to some of the other locations you have worked?

Now let me preface this with, I am not a native New Yorker. I am Ghanaian. Moved here in 2008 for college, and started my career as a gigging musician here. One thing I will say is this, its pays to network, it pays to get out there. I on the other hand, tend to be more on the homebody side, and don’t like forcing myself on people. So I don’t do as well in New York I think because I’m not always out there. That is my bad I know, but another thing I’ve noticed? New Yorkers ride hard for their own, if you are a born and raised New Yorker, chances are you went to high school here, you grew up with a lot of the people maybe working in the industries you are trying to break into, these native connections really do wonders also. It has only taught me that your home base support is the most genuine support you can get. On the contrary, I received by far the best reception in Seattle , and no one really knew who I was! The love there was organic, from the jump, I don’t feel that way about New York, at least not anymore. Oh and Philly receives new music well also! Another amazing location to play. I guess New York can be a little pretentious at times…but that may just be my personal experience with it, that and I’m not a hound lol. I can be on the shy side when it comes to networking so that may not work in my favor. I just let my talent speak for itself.

Q. What does your stage name mean for you?

My real name is Maria Bossman-Damiba (yes, the Bossman is really my name). I used to go by ‘Boss’ for a little while, but a fellow creative, Paapa hMensa told me one day how he though ‘Ria Boss’ had a certain ring to it, a presence to it almost. Some friends from childhood used to call me Ria (actually only two friends ever called me this Hi Naa Adjeley and Maame Suga!) so it came full circle really. Ria Boss is a bolder more eccentric version of me, she is my true cat lady crazy self. lol

Q. Style influences: who and what are they?

Style wise I am a comfort queen, so sweats, hoodies and mom jeans all day long. I think a lot of the more tomboy looks Rihanna does are my aesthetic. If its comfy chances are I’ll wear it haha. I need to get my hands on those Puma creepers asap!

https://www.facebook.com/riabossmeow

http://riabossmeow.com/

https://soundcloud.com/officialriaboss

http://riabossmeow.tumblr.com/

https://instagram.com/rivbxss/?hl=en

[thefriendterview]

Carnie Wilson: TBT for Lane Bryant

New York City’s Herald Square welcomed retail powerhouse, Lane Bryant, with open arms when the site of the new flagship store celebrated with a festive launch event. With celebrities in attendance, pounding music, and dazzling billboards illuminating Herald Square’s busy sidewalks, Lane Bryant’s midtown arrival elegantly commanded the spotlight.

As the leading retailer of plus size women’s wear in the United States, Lane Bryant is one of the most respected and recognizable brands in the fashion world. Created in 1904 by Lena Bryant, the brand began as a single shop on New York City’s 5th Avenue, specializing in maternity wear. Although Bryant found success in maternity garments, it was when she began designing for naturally full-figured women that sparked her incredible ascendancy. Today, Lane Bryant stores are located in almost every single state in America. Carrying everything from general women’s wear, swim-wear, workout gear, shoes, intimates, and accessories Lane Bryant meets every desire of the modern woman.

Demonstrating the brand’s longevity and relevancy, New York fashionistas, industry insiders, and celebrities gathered for the exclusive party. The special guests for the evening were music superstar and actress, Carnie Wilson, and fashion stylist and designer, Jay Manuel.

Carnie Wilson rose to fame with her band Wilson Phillips with the release of their 1990 debut album. Selling over ten million copies and producing three number one singles, the album catapulted Wilson to instant stardom. Grammy nominations followed and history was made in 1992 when Billboard credited them with the best selling album of all time by an all female band. Since then Wilson Phillips has released four studio albums, appeared in the 2011 film Bridesmaids, and even participated in a 2012 reality show. Carnie Wilson herself has made numerous television appearances as an actress and host, and has been very outspoken about body image and weight, appearing on VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club, and even posing for Playboy.

Jay Manuel is a fashion designer and makeup artist. He rose to fame as a photo shoot director onAmerica’s Next Top Model, where he appeared for 18 seasons. Manuel has also appeared on Canada’s Next Top Model, hosted major red carpet events for E! Entertainment Television, and released a clothing line in partnership with Sears.

After posing for photographers on the carpet and giving interviews, Wilson and Manuel enjoyed the party, mingling with guests and sharing spring fashion tips, as well as previewing the latest collection. Well-known fashion bloggers Ashley Falcon, Alissa Wilson, and Marcy Guevara also came out to support as well.

Satisfaction was guaranteed for all of the invited guests in attendance. Delicious hors d'oeuvres were served the entire evening as well as Lane Bryant signature cocktails, the Fashionista and the Lanetini. While the guests shopped the new collection and mingled, DJ Lindsay Luv kept the party rocking. The unveiling party of Lane Bryant’s New York City flagship store was a stylish and chic soiree that celebrated the beauty of every woman, demonstrating that when it comes to fashion, curves are in.

Exclusive Interview With Carnie Wison below

Q: What is like to be here at the Lane Bryant launch tonight?

Carnie: The vibe I’m getting tonight is that this is a celebration. This is really rock and roll right now, I am really excited. First of all the dress I’m wearing is from the Lane collection and this is something that I feel great in. I’m wearing this on stage on Saturday night when Wilson Phillips performs in Miami. I’m going to feel great getting up there. Its like it was tailored made for me, its perfect. I’m really impressed with Lane Bryant right now, I feel like they’ve stepped it up. I look around and I see hip, I see cool, and I’ve shopped here for years. I have been a Lane Bryant customer for a long and I feel like its going to the next level. I really believe that. Lane collection is stunning. I love that blush blazer, there is a lot of things I have my eye on tonight that I’m going to beg for. This is a celebration for all women, all sizes, but its not a plus size event. This is Lane Bryant in the middle of New York City, we’re not shopping in a dark shadow in a corner, this is here for all women to feel good.

Q: Besides the upcoming show in Miami, what else is going on musically?

Q: We are talking about the next album and we just had another album called dedicated so now we’re talking about the next album. We’re just continuing to do shows, touring, we have nine children so we are one of those weekend touring bands. We don’t go out for six months because we have young children. I’m a working mom of average size and I feel great about it now. I have really come into a new place in my life. I’m really embracing who I am, just accepting it and loving it and not feeling ashamed to be standing next to Wendy and Chyna. Really proud of what I stand for, which is acceptance and self-love and the love of fashion. Why should women that have curves be denied that? Its not fair and that’s why I’m here.

Q: You are such a voice and inspiration for so many people out there and I have recently watched you use that voice on The Talk. I love you on the show! When are they making you a regular?

Carnie: Are you kidding me? What do you think I’m praying about everyday? Here is the real dream – that they have the Carnie Collection here at Lane Bryant and that I wear it on The Talk everyday. I’m just saying! How great would that be? Like the secret, I’m actually putting that out there. That would be a dream come true.

-Moshe Alpert-Eschbach

[thefriendterview]

Snooki, JWoww & RuPaul #Rewind

Drag queen galore took over XL Nightclub in New York City on Friday eveing with the "Rupaul's Drag Race" season 5 premiere party. Transforming the space, the midtown venue helped the Logo television show usher in it’s fifth season with style and sass. Glitter, sequins, hair, and stilettos took center stage as the drag queens hit the red carpet in gowns. Posing for the cameras were some of the past and current contestants of the show along with famed reality stars. Snooki and Jwoww from "Jersey Shore" were in attendance at the bash as well.

Serving as the hosts for the evening were Snooki and Jwoww. The two starlets are big fans of the show and Rupaul. Dressed to impress, Jwoww in a bra baring ensemble, all eyes were on the two MTV stars. Snooki stated that she felt honored to be selected as the host. “We are huge advocates for the gay community. The fact that we can do stuff with Rupaul and drag race is amazing. We feel very honored that he wanted us to host this event.” Jwoww added, “We are like fans hanging out with our idols. We aspire to look like drag queens, no joke. If you look at us at the shore we are only like one or two shades of makeup away from drag.”

Jwoww also shared some insight into what the girls have been up to. “Snooki and Jwoww 2 is on now and we have episode four coming out where you can physically see Lorenzo, you can see the birth. You’re going to see me and Roger take a trip to Maine and we’re so excited for our fans to see the upcoming episode. Nicole is killing it with Snooki Couture everything, her brand. We’re both doing tanning products and we’re both launching clothes this spring, so it,s very exciting. Clothing lines, perfume, shoes, tanning, and jewelry so its an amazing time for us. I think our biggest thing is tonight.”

Running the show, Snooki and Jwoww entertained the audience throughout the entirety of the night. Fierceness certainly served as the theme for the festive occasion.

2013 *Ghost written for the Examiner.com*

[thefriendterview]

Carleigh Jade for AXS.com - A Soulful Girl Born to Rock!

Carleigh Jade is a Chelsea, New York based singer working towards the upcoming release of her debut album, produced by Joss Stone's producer. She is wrapping production on her music video with YouTube Studios in Chelsea, where original pieces from the legendary CBGBs club were used to construct and furnish the set. She is consistently playing New York venues and events. Jade, born in NYC, had an early introduction to music listening to her parent's collection of late '60's early '70's Soul and Rock Albums. What resonated with her were the voices of Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, Etta James and other great female vocalists from that time period. Finding it difficult to "relate" to a lot of the current mainstream artist's, Carleigh developed her own unique style by taking from early childhood influences and mixing them with popular  contemporary sounds. As a result, Carleigh perfected a sonic rock fusion drenched in the blues. Carleigh Jade and the Carleigh Jade Band are on their way to critical music acclaim.

Q. So, if you could describe Carleigh Jade, what adjectives would you use? Who is Carleigh?

HA! I feel like I’m the wrong person to answer this question. I’m kind of a weirdo. But, adjectives! Weird. I’m very passionate, curious, anxious, intense, and goofy.

Q. Your music obviously has a rock & roll/soul vibe, but it also incorporates so many other sounds, what are the genres you draw from while creating your songs?

I think that at the core of every truly timeless song is a great pop song. Pop has become a very taboo term to use. I guess it’s become synonymous with another very taboo term, ‘selling out’, but fuck it! I naturally gravitate towards loud guitars, but a great song is a great song. Also, with all of that being said, I just create music that I want to hear. Once it gets to other people’s ears, it’s theirs. They can call it whatever they want to call it! Well, except for bad. Don’t call it bad!

Q. Who are your musical inspirations?

Hmm… there’s really no short-winded way to answer this question. I’m obsessed with music. I have my favorites, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, Heart, Blondie, Sly and The Family Stone, Queen… but I’m constantly discovering new music. There are SO many cool new artists. Recently I’ve had Ed Sheeran’s new record on repeat, Hozier, Banks, Elle King, Reignwolf, Halsey, Jessie J, Dead Sara. I should just hand over my Itunes account. You would be confused.

Q. You know a lot of people in the music industry, have you ever considered collaborating with any on them?

Definitely! This past Saturday I woke up with 34 selfies on my phone of me with Michael Bolton. I found that very amusing. Then my hangover set in. Side note, he’s dope. I’ve known Nile Rodgers since I was 15. He is such a special person and an insane musician. Who knows! I recently met Charli XCX and The Alabama Shakes at SNL after parties. It’s cool to meet people that are in it. Everyone has a unique perspective. I guess that’s why collaboration is so crucial to growing as an artist.

Q. You’ve been in the business for quite a long time in NYC creating a career on your own steam, what’s the journey been like? What has been the most satisfying moment thus far?

I guess it has been a while! When I first started performing, I would puke before I went on stage. Every single time I thought that I was going to die for sure. So, I’ve come a long way! The fact that I don’t puke before shows anymore, that’s pretty fucking gratifying.

Q. You are gearing up for the release of your first single! The man behind Joss Stone’s production is on board with you. What has it been like having a producer working with you, like the accomplished Steve Greenwell!

Steve is awesome. At first, I was a little intimidated by him. He’s mellow, but he has a big presence. I didn’t want to make a wrong move. I really wanted to impress him. That was silly. We did most of the recording at Steve’s midtown studio, but I think my favorite part of recording our single “Drunk, Desperate and Crazy” was the day we cut vocals at Threshold Studios. There have been so many incredible artists that I look up to that have recorded at Threshold. It was just Steve and I in the studio and I went fucking crazy. I put all of the emotion that inspired me to write the song into that vocal- Its’ all there. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it! You’ll either be terrified, or right there with me wailing!

Q. Tell me about your upcoming music video that you shot at YouTube Studios. I heard the original, authentic CBGB’s atmosphere literally became a part of your set!

WILD! I still can’t believe that we pulled this off. We played CBGB festival this past October and the universe brought Max Schindler to our set in Times Square. He was actually walking by on his way to the Jane’s Addiction set, but he liked what he heard and showed up to our Rockwood Music Hall show the next week. Since then, he has been on the Carleigh Jade train! I told Max about our plans to make this video and introduced him to my friends Sam Miron and Eamon Downey at Other Side Pictures. Once he heard the track and the concept, he put us in touch with Tim Hayes who runs shit as far as CBGB is concerned. We lucked out! The original CBGB’s stage, walls, bar, everything was moved to YouTube studios NY and they hooked us up!!! This experience was really special for me. Everyone involved was involved because they really believed in this. Again, cannot wait for the world to see!

Q. You’re consistently touring and playing gigs, what are some venues you’d love to play, and have played already.

I love playing. Every show is so much fun. I love sushi. I want to play Japan.

Q. You’re obviously a fashionista, what are some of your favorite brands? What celebs, artists, magazines do you get inspired by?

Haha! This question made me giggle. I usually just wake up and think to myself “What would Steven Tyler wear?” then I make it slutty and add feathers!

https://www.facebook.com/CarleighJadeMusic

http://www.carleighjadeband.com/

https://twitter.com/carleighjade

https://instagram.com/carleighjade/

* Interview ghost written for AXS.com*

http://www.axs.com/news/exclusive-meet-singer-on-the-rise-carleigh-jade-47755

[thefriendterview]

Lion Babe: Rewind - First Friendterview Ever - Examiner.com

New York City music lovers recently came together to celebrate new musical group duo for their music video release party. The night also marked their official first New York City show. Hosted at Leftfield in the Lower East Side, the packed audience was treated to an incredible performance of Lion Babe material, including the recently released debut single Treat Me Like Fire, as well as a cover of Erykah Badu’s classic Bag Lady. Directly after the performance, guests were treated to the Treat Me Like Fire music video premiere. While guests, including the man behind the mane, Chuckie Amos, and Ty Hunter, Beyonce’s stylist, watched the video, they enjoyed catered food from Cheeky Sandwiches.

Q: For those who don’t know yet, who is Lion Babe?

Jillian: Lion Babe is Lucas and I. We are starting out as a duo right now. The actual name Lion Babe just kind of happened, it made a lot of sense to both of us. For me personally I had several experiences to lead up to that name. During a safari to South Africa, I saw a lioness and had a very real exchange with the animal. At the time I was in college figuring out who I was, getting more confident in what I wanted to do in my artistry, finding myself. That experience of being in the wild in a place where life initially began for all creatures gave me a overwhelming sense of connection. Surrounded by nature and seeing that lioness sparked the necessity to really own my sh*t. From there I knew I wanted to literally change myself and my hair extensions was the first thing to go.  Transformation comes in a lot of different forms, but going natural really helped me love myself. The lion became a part of me.  I really embodied it, I feel strong.

Q: Can you speak more on your experience in South Africa?

Jillian: I’ve always been an animal lover my entire life, but that was the specific instance where lions kind of took over for me. And then meeting Lucas, a Leo, was the next piece to the puzzle. I’m a Gemini. It just works. Lion Babe is really how we both would describe our sounds. Both words consist of different meanings for different people, but for us, it was the simplest way to describe our creation.

Q: You just had your music video release party, what was the experience like as new artists? Getting that feedback from the crowd.

Jillian: The experience alone was incredible. People showed up. It was our first thing and people showed up. When it came to actually finding a venue, ideally we were looking for a place that had a screening room, a stage, a bar and whatever, but realistically we’re two kids in New York trying to do this thing. That’s why it was so satisfying, it’s been just the two of us, building from the ground up and just going at it. That’s why [it was held where it was] the Lower East Side was the area that I have come into my own and Lucas’ home. We were looking at all over Manhattan and Brooklyn when we realized, it had to be where it’s all been happening. It was definitely a relief to finally have something to show for all the blood, sweat and tears we have poured into Lion Babe over the past two years. It was our first splash. There was a lot excitement in the room. Everyone knew that this was the beginning of a new thing for us, but also the beginning of a new thing for a lot of people. It was a really big celebration of the people in our lives that inspire us and we finally got to share it. I felt very proud and just excited, so excited.

Q: We were all just standing up, holding hands, and crying.

Jillian: Afterwards, seeing people that came to support from all walks of my life was truly overwhelming. Of course, the only time I did loose it was as soon as I saw my father, and I knew I was going to. That man is a lot to me, so when I walked up to him, that’s when it all burst out and he hugged me.

Q: What did he say?

Jillian: My father is such an accomplished man and his stories alone are one for the books. He has been in the music industry his whole life so his advice means a lot to Lucas and I. His honesty in addition to support is what helps us stay smart and also allows another eye looking in the crowd for the things we can’t see. He was very proud though. He was excited about the turn out, he was like ‘I didn’t know you could get this many people’. I’m like neither did I!

Q: As new artists what is it like to be so positively received?

Jillian: Well I think when you put so much positivity, energy, and love into something, that’s what people see, and we strive to do that. The freedom I experienced as a dance major in college gave me so much, but the reality of being in school is that you are still forced to work under restrictions. This was the first time I just thought of something and did it, it was freeing. I think the reason people are attracted to it is because it’s raw and something new. Honesty always stands out. It begins and end with how Lucas and I feel.

Q: Watching the video, you can see that they’re not taking the stereotypical route.

Jillian: I was shaped in college into a performance artist. That’s what happened. I never really thought of myself as being one singular thing, I’m too young to know that. I think of myself as an artist and I feel no restrictions when it comes to how I want to portray what I want to portray.

Q: What is the next step? The EP is coming.

Jillian: I live for the stage, so I don’t think there’s a way to grow and expand our music without performing. Obviously, we’re working on the EP, but we’re booking shows and trying to build our fan base in New York. A new single is next on the list so stay tuned!

Q: What sounds, artists, and styles motivate and inspire you?

Jillian: Everything is coming from different places. I try to infuse all the techniques I had with choreography into song writing, so it constantly varies and of course is ruled by improvisation. I really respect Badu, she is a rhythm goddess to me. There’s never a time where I listen to her and I’m like “oh, she’s off, I’m not feeling it.” You feel it. You feel that inner rhythm within her. Those people are the people I really take from.  It goes back to James Brown. Lucas turned me onto to Flying Lotus. People that spew out rhythm. Growing up the two major soundtracks my mom would play was Tribe Called Quest, The Anthology and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. It’s funny because those two albums had such a strong influence on me without me even realizing because when I look back on my music, it's all over the place. Everything is in there. Most importantly, I just love, love. I love, love songs, jazz like Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald. Their tone is the sound of their heart and nothing feels stronger than when you hear that. The first movie I ever saw was Singing in the Rain. That movie and The Wizard of Oz were the first movies I ever watched, and I still watch them. Old Hollywood has always been magical to me. I miss music. There’s a timelessness when it comes to those kind of sounds. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was huge for me. That was actually one of the first times I kind of switched gears. I grew up in a town with a bunch of white kids, which is totally fine, but I listened to ‘N Sync, Spice Girls and whoever, but that was kind of the first time I was like “woah, what is she doing? How did she make this?” Every song, I learned every word. I would listen to that thing on loop. That really changed me. That’s when I was like that’s how I want to sing, that’s what I really want to do. She changed the game for me. My dad, he worked with everyone so even the stories he’s been telling me my whole life made me have a certain appreciation for people in 60s and 70s soul music and rock and roll…. His favorite artist was Jimi Hendrix and him again, as a lyricist, changed my life. Castles Made of Sand was one of the most beautiful songs I’d ever heard ever and I just loved the imagery in it. I went through many stages like most do growing up. Still to this day, I don’t put myself into one category. My itunes goes all over the place. I’m very eclectic…with everything. Lucas has such an extensive knowledge of music and he has exposed me to a lot.  Maybe down the line, we will know the adjectives to describe our sound but we are still playing around. Our histories always have a way of reinventing themselves.

Q: What is the writing process like?

Jillian: There’s times where I hear a full song in my head and I’m like Lucas, I just wrote a song. I’ll just sing it into my phone because it will just come out of me. Other times he gives me a beat. Sometimes words come easily and sometimes they don’t. Most songs take me twenty minutes to write. I have my journal, which consists of free writing, lists, drawings, randomness. If I ever feel really lost, I find myself looking in there, and sometimes something will just emerge from that. The responsibility of the songwriter (me) is to carry out whatever the feeling Lucas creates, most of the time we are on the same page but our differences usually make a harmonious clash.  I tend to write about love because I’m always thinking about it. I think a lot though and struggle with overanalyzing. Way over. That’s the thing, I feel like I do that a lot and then finally when I stop thinking, that’s when it happens.

Q: Is dancing something you want to incorporate into the live show?

Jillian: Of course, I’m a dancer. Dancing grabbed me from the start and I have was never afraid to do it. Without dance I wouldn’t be singing today. I want to expose people to the underground dance scene through our music. My biggest heroes are most likely unknown to the “mainstream” audiences. I want to punch a hole through the entertainment business. People just try to put you in a box and I don’t see myself in any particular box. I’m making my own box. There’s no way I would be able to make the music I’m making without dancing…. There’s going to be times where I want to create a solo work that Lucas writes music to, and we shoot a video and that’s it. I might not even sing. It's out there. Both are equally important to me. If music gives me the opportunity to be out there and have a larger audience, I’m going to do that, but don’t expect me to sing the whole time. I’m going to be doing everything. I want to act and I want to perform. So, I think it's exciting and I’m just going to keep doing what I do.

Moshe: That's great.

Jillian: All the people that I look up to, might have followed something and have influences, but the reason they are who they are is because they have all identified what makes them unique. I’m not looking to be the greatest pop star of all time. I want to be an artist. I want to influence people and I want to get people to think about the world, to think and talk to each other and connect. To challenge one another. In a perfect world my shows will be a place where people of all different facets of life can come together and celebrate and meet each other and start new experiences. I think our music reflects our experience in New York City. NYC is an extremely eclectic place, it's always moving, it's always different, and you feel different everyday. The only thing you can do is keep moving forward and document your life in some sort of way and share it with the people you love. It’s all about serious play. The world works hard to tarnish our imaginations, but I understand how fundamental it is to have. To me, it is the key to my success. This world is going in all sorts of directions, but I think all you can do is get people to think about things in a different way, because sometimes people aren’t even thinking. You need to have honest things in the world. Even if people don’t understand it, if it's coming from you, that’s already more important.

Q: What were you wearing? The hair! Who did it?!

Jillian: I prefer to do things by myself, but I always bring in people who inspire me. Chuckie Amos, made my mane for the video and has been creating pieces since then for Lion Babe.  The show hair was beyond. It made me feel like I had another attachment to myself. I’ve always loved vintage and I never like to have something someone else has. I looked around and I found a bunch of stuff through my friends at Found By, but once that hair was on my head, I was like I don’t need anything else! All the energy was in the hair. I wear black a lot, so once the hair was on it made sense to keep it simple. By simple I mean simply everything. I’m a boots and jeans kind of girl, but I always have to have some spice. The corset that I wore is a black velvet corset that was recently given to me by my Aunt who passed it down from my great grandmother. I put it on and it fit like a glove. That’s always how sh*t works. I’ve used the same couple pieces in all my work because they are sacred to me and they represent me. I need pieces with history, stuff that really means a lot to me even if people won’t recognize what it is, it is of value, another statement within the whole thing. It felt really great to be wearing that. I never met my great grandmother but I felt her on stage with me.

Q: Do you think of the fashion side to it all a lot?

Jillian: I think I’m always thinking of that. If you look at my blog,  (jillonce.tumblr.com) there are so many different eras that I’m inspired by and so many different looks, but it’s never going to feel right if it's not me. People ask if I’m going to get a stylist, but I honestly don’t know. I would feel weird having someone style me. It would have to be a collaboration. I’ve had those experiences and every time it happens I don’t feel good. What’s the point of putting all this work into something and then when you present it, it’s not you? Who knows though, I think when the right person comes along the help would be great.

Q: How did Lion Babe actually come together?

We met through friends and connected here and there for a few years. Ironically the first thing about Lucas I ever knew was his music. I introduced myself shyly at a college party and simply told him I liked his music. It stood out from the first moment I heard it.  He became a random update on Facebook for a few years, I followed his music page after that night. I never do that. Years later, the universe threw us back together and we started to hang out in New York. Singing was still a secret of mine, but the more I hung out with him, the more eager I was to give it a try. I think he was oblivious of all the tension I had about it when it first happened, but the truth is, he made it a fun and safe place. I saw him work with friends and artists and realized that I was overreacting. The rest is history. I owe a lot to Astro Raw. I’m not surprised that he entered my life through his music.  “They” say the universe works in mysterious ways, but I learned fate tends to be right in front of you, but you see it when you are ready.

For more information visit: http://lionbabe.com/

*2012* Ghost written for the Examiner.com by Moshé Alpert - E. 

http://www.examiner.com/article/exclusive-interview-with-lion-babe-lead-singer-jillian-hervey

[thefriendterview]

Christina Milian: TBT

Procter & Gamble's Orgullosa program’s NYC Fashion Show

Q: Does this event have special significance to you as a latina in the industry for so long?

Milian: This event is so inspirational. We grow up with so many dreams as young latinas and its great that we are now able to get together through Orgullosa and their Facebook community and really spread our dreams and explain our stories. How we got to where we are, we all have different dreams and aspirations and I think its important we share them because it helps nurture, inspire, and show that we care. It shows that as a sisterhood, we're there for each other, to network, and to make our lives better. Its our time. For me, its also a great time because people like Jennifer Lopez and Gloria Estefan came before me and opened doors for us women. I plan on doing the same thing for my daughter.

Q. You have big music happenings right now! You have toured with Usher in the past and now he is joining your show The Voice, that must be exciting! Also, what is it like to now be signed with Young Money?!

Milian: Its going great so far. Its great to have a repoire already with one of the judges so I already know what he's capable of and what he can do and he is such a great performer so I can't wait to see what he does with his artists on the show. Its great now, we are both grown adults and have kids now so its different. We have a bond over that. For me, being with Young Money is a lot of fun, I get to explore what I want musically. I have a record with Lil Wayne and The Stafford Brothers called 'Hello' thats coming out right now. We just shot the video so be on the lookout for that.

Procter & Gamble's Orgullosa program -- an initiative created to celebrate, empower, and fuel Latinas’ dreams -- hosted its exclusive “skirts only” fashion show in NYC to showcase and celebrate how the Latina community is made of mujeres con la falda bien puesta™ (women who have their skirts placed well). The fashion show, held at 404 NYC for more than 75 women, had Latina celebrity VIP guests in attendance, including Christina Milian and Adrienne Bailon, who were on-site to celebrate Orgullosa's newly-appointed Board of Faldas (Board of Skirts) and the "everyday Latina woman" who walked the runway wearing one-of-a kind designs by CENIA. We caught with Christina at the event.

http://jonesmagazine.com/content/lifestyle/1338/christina.milian.adrienne.bailon.more.celebrated

[thefriendterview]

Marsha Ambrosius: TBT - Dark & Lovely Launch

Girls with natural hair had reason to celebrate recently when Dark and Lovely unveiled their latest line of products for curly haired curls, Au Naturale. With creamy hair moisturizers, hair serums, styling product, and a shampoo and conditioner Dark and Lovely is filling a void many natural hair lovers have experienced...

*http://jonesmagazine.com/content/beauty.hair/1271/dark.lovely.launch.marsha.ambrosius

*http://www.marshaambrosiusmusic.com/de/node/205

Q&A with Marsha Ambrosius

Q. Tell me about your experience with Dark and Lovely and the natural hair movement.

A. My natural hair movement started as a young girl. My mother and my grandmother always instilled beauty from within and my kinks and my curls or my coils were always my main feature. It was something that I always took pride in so its great to find products that align with my everyday lifestyle. I work too much to worry about my curl so I don’t want to loose it, so pairing up with Dark and Lovely Au Naturale, it has everything that I need in it. My curls are going to stay and I can remain the natural goddess that we are all meant to be. It allows you the freedom to enjoy yourself and enjoy your hair and it smells absolutely delicious. You want to eat it, its not edible, its not a smoothie, but you will smell like one.

Q. Tell me about the music, touring, the album.

A. I will be touring. The new album Friends and Lovers, we just finished recording that so I’m very excited. The new single is Cold War and the video and the song are available on Itunes right now. I’ll be here in New York on tour March 5th at SOB’s. Get your ticket now. I like an intimate crowd, I like my curls in people’s faces, so we will be sweating it out but my curls will stay intact!

[thefriendterview]

Jenny McCarthy #TBT

Sex positivity was the theme of the night with the recent Durex event at Dream Downtown. Taking over the gallery space and labeling it as ‘Hotel Durex’, the dance4life benefit soiree provided guests with plenty of fun while also sharing educational tips. With funny lady and talk show host, Jenny McCarthy, serving as the host, the evening featured specialty aphrodisiac cocktails and hor d’oeuvres, music by DJ Kiss and DJ Lindsay Luv, massage lessons, photo booths, and healthy sex information the party offered something for everyone, inviting all to “sexplore.”

http://www.jonesmagazine.com/content/1359/jenny.mccarthy.hosts.hotel.durex.charity.event

[thefriendterview]

This Girl is on Fire!

Business scientist, actress, singer, broadcaster, entrepreneur – some of the job titles held by the accomplished, South African born beauty, Nambitha Ben-Mazwi. Honing her aptitude for media in Cape Town, Ben-Mazwi began her career as a child. Covering a childhood spent touring Western Europe as a singer, and life as an adult navigating the worlds of entertainment and business, Ben-Mazwi’s words touch on elements of identity, success and uncertainty, artistic desire, and cultural globalization. 

Q. Originally from South Africa, did the art scene there influence you growing up? What were you involved in?

Of course! South Africa is home, and my heritage being a Xhosa lady raised by Xhosa women influenced me a great deal. My mannerisms, etiquette, music and cultural influences were further exposed to European ways growing up. I often took part in many musicals (Andrew Lloyd Webber being one of my favorite music composers) and I sang a great deal all around Western Europe in many European languages while representing the province I grew up in. Art to me evolved while growing up as I became exposed to the world through travel from the tender age of 11, and it continues to be a journey firmly rooted in South Africa.

Q. Did you always want to be a singer and actress? What has your artistic journey been like? 

When I was young, yes. But my journey has been somewhat of a circle where I now have come back to who I am, was and wanted to be. Singing wasn't something I was aware of. I thought everyone could hold a note. I still struggle with the denial that I am somewhat gifted in music regardless of being chosen to sing my first solo at the age of 3. My journey as an actress was an undeniable one. I’ve always loved The Arts and being on stage, whether it be through public speaking, music, theatre, or dance. My uncle, a Broadway Tony award winner and acting veteran, Winston Ntshona, strongly influenced me. Although I progressed into a life after school, where I graduated with an honors in Business Science and worked in the corporate world, my trip and sudden move to New York City, where I had to rely on my natural gifts in order to make a sudden living, brought me back to the calling I have for the performing arts. Having been on international stages growing up, then finding myself working amongst the best comedians/actors in New York, inspired my career decision of going back to being an artist and independent business women. My journey has made me realize that I can use my core strengths to make a difference and influence in the world. That being said, I have come full circle as an artist in going against society’s expectations of a Business Scientist. I am currently living an honest life of no compromise and answering to my core each day.

Q. Who are some of the individuals that influenced you – both growing up, and currently? 

People who consciously influence me are the same people who I look up to. That being said, I only look up to someone who I know, and whose flaws I understand yet still admire. That to me is my mother and grandmother. Their grace; strength; integrity; smart wit; and brave sacrificial lives they have both lived, are traits I have experienced daily and that I aspire to possess. My grandmother in particular, is a woman who has put our family name as a street name, named after her, and she has taught me the importance of leaving a true legacy. My uncle, Winston Ntshona, who I've mentioned has influenced me in terms of acting, has further inspired my life motto of using my strengths and platform, to make a significant difference. His journey of being a screen actor, playwright and thespian, and who during apartheid traveled the world with playwright Athol Fugard and actor John Kani, performing plays as a form of protest against the apartheid regime led them to win Tony Awards on Broadway. That example to me, exemplified that it is indeed possible to use your calling and strengths as a platform to make a difference. I currently am working towards mirroring my family's influence.

Q. Tell me about Presenter Search and what that experience was like.

"Presenter Search on 3 " was a great experience for me--most importantly I learnt more about the South African TV industry (which is rather more conservative than the US) and being picked after a nationwide search among thousands of TV hosting hopefuls as the top 11 best presenters in the country was humbling. Competing for 3 spots in 3 shows was tricky, as I always had to be aware that we are being used as show content to achieve top ratings, while also maintaining a unique TV personality and a professional brand image throughout the drama-induced reality show. It was nonetheless fun, and further inspired my quest in pursuing producing.

Q. How do you balance your acting, singing, and business life? 

When you do what you were born to do, things somehow become effortless. I never feel the pressure of balancing each as I am a strategist by nature and qualification. I work towards what I have set out and make sure every element that I am committed to in media is mutually exclusive.

Q. Style is important to you. How would you describe your style? 

Everyday for me, is an opportunity for fashion. I was raised to always take pride in my appearance and my late grandmother was a strong influence when it came to that. Style is an extension of who I am, and I have seen how much of a strong role it has played in my career progression. I always describe my unique style as elegant and edgy.

Q. What has been your proudest accomplishment thus far? 

My NYC story is probably one of the gutsiest moves I have ever pulled thus far. I went for what started as a 2 week holiday to visit the only person I knew in New York, with the intention of networking…and well. I didn’t get on the plane back home and gave myself a week to find a job, make a living and find an apartment! I still have NO IDEA how I was able to pull that off and possess the entertainment/business leads I had managed to get and work with there. Being on TV in the states is a very different ball game to South Africa. Seeing how hard-working and humble international American stars are, grounds me in my quest to build a global career. Living in NYC was a truly remarkable experience that not only taught me how to hustle and survive, but I learnt a lot about myself and that anyone can achieve ANYTHING.

Q. What are you currently working on? 

I just came back from a radio guest interview on Cliff Central where I just exposed my current move—Johannesburg! It’s only my fourth day having moved to Jozi and I am excited to continue on some filming projects (acting) and pursue producing. Apart from entertainment, I do still consult independently in digital marketing and strategy, so that will always be a part of me. What South Africans can look out for is my role in a drama series called "Traffic Season 2" which airs Thursdays 8:30pm on Ekasi+, Channel 105.                                             

Q. Lastly, who are some artists that are still on your list of people you’d like to work with?

This list would be very long, but I hope to work/interview Oprah Winfrey and work with film directors such as Quentin Tarantino, Woody Allen (we are born on the same day!), and Spike Lee to name a few.

Emanating a vibrant charisma, Ben-Mazwi’s approach to work and life is reflective of her desire to create positive things of value and substance.

https://twitter.com/ladynam_

https://instagram.com/ladynam101/

https://www.facebook.com/Nambitha.LadyNam.BM

[thefriendterview]

TBT: Harry Belafonte

2013: Harry Belafonte: Diversity in Cinema

Cinephiles and filmmakers alike had plenty of reasons to celebrate this weekend when New York City held the first ever annual film festival, First Time Fest. Debuting March 1st and running until March 4th, the festival holds a series of events each day that not only showcase talented emerging filmmakers, but also look back at the film debuts of veteran directors through exclusive screenings. Special events are also a part of the festival’s lineup. Day two of the festival held an incredible discussion panel and brunch titled Diversity in Cinema that saw one producer, one screenwriter, and one legendary icon take the stage.

http://jonesmagazine.com/content/lifestyle/1300/first.time.fest.presents.diversity.cinema.panel

[thefriendterview]

pursuing dreams. reminder

the immeasurable importance IS doing what you love, pursing your true passion. ~ that which fills the wakening moments of a typical morning with such joy, a smile can’t be withheld. ~ that which encourages contentment as the sunset welcomes an end to a day. ~ that which brings pleasure to a night’s dreams. ~ that offers peace to a clouded mind and healing to a soul in the midst of emotional warfare. ~ that which tells the story of your personhood so honestly and so brutally that all the falsified data and deception you’ve acquired about your being, everything that society didn’t ask but imposed, all the deception, is stripped away, leaving you naked with nothing to offer but the authentic essence of you who are. ~ what excites so much, it terrifies. ** fulfilling our passions is how we say we appreciate the opportunity to be alive.

- Written by me - Moshé

[thefriendterview]

Emerging actress, Haley, Talks Teenage Angst, LA v. NY, Pill-Pushing Childhood Docs, Medical Marijuana Cards, and Recently Attempting to Get Martin Scorsese to Adopt Her While On Set

Intriguing, hilarious, beautiful, intellectually witty, cultured - all adjectives that can be applied to actress Haley Andrewsen. In a candid conversation together, she demonstrates the exceptional, fearless it factor that makes her a brilliant performer and person. She will be appearing next in an upcoming Martin Scorsese, Mick Jagger HBO project.

Q. What motivated you to become an actress/comedian?

This is kind of a fucked up story, but hey, I'm kind of a fucked up gal. Growing up, my mom had a lot of psychiatrists, and I was always skeptical of how quickly they seemed to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs. At the time, I was a really angsty teen that wanted to get her hands on a medical marijuana card. So, I used that teen angst to turn me into a prescription con-artist, so to speak. I looked up all these psychiatric disorders and symptoms and would kind of put on these little shows for the different psychiatrists. The range of pills I got prescribed was astounding. I never took any of the pills, much less filled any of the prescriptions. I never ended up getting that damn medical marijuana card though. However, I did realize I had a bit of a knack for this thing I was doing, whatever it was. So I figured it would be a lot healthier to start putting those talents towards something artistic. I started with improv in high school, because I thought acting was lame. Then suddenly, I didn't. That’s when I decided to become an actress.

Q. Tell me about Two Skeletons.

The first project that I was in when I came out here [to NYC] was this short film called Two Skeletons, directed by Toby Spanton. I met him when I was a teenager living in Los Angeles, at the premiere of his last short film Curiosity. Out of the blue one day, I got a message from him saying he was going to be filming a new project in NYC (he's a Brit), and wanted me to be the lead. His last filmed starred Emily Blunt and Tom Riley, so I was kind of like "duh.” It was as low budget as it gets, but it was really fun working opposite Seb Blunt (Emily's brother). Also, I never imagined myself being the type to get cast in a romantic comedy, so that was an interesting challenge as well. I know it premiered at some film festivals around Europe, and some actors that I really respect got to see it. Also, this was all during my first semester of school, so I was 18 and really stoked about it… until I saw it and heard my voice on camera for the first time. Too many cigarettes.

Q. How was it to work on this upcoming Martin Scorsese, Mick Jagger HBO project?

My experience on The Untitled 70's Rock Project was really tragically funny as well. I was billed as Olivia Wilde's character’s (Devon Finestra) neighbor. I forgot to shave my legs, and it was bad, and there’s a lot of up-close shots where I'm sitting down that probably ruined the editors week later on. I got to meet Martin Scorsese, who is half my size, and tried to get him to adopt me and raise me as one of his own, but alas that did not work. I also ran into one of my friends, Rahm, who is a keyboardist and has an afro. The scene was set in 1973, so he fit right in. He's not even an actor, dammit. He was just probably there for the free food. I've actually run into some of the actors randomly on the subway as well. It's easy to remember them because everyone on set had amazing large hair. The scene was this swingin' music industry birthday party for Bobby Cannavale's character (Richie Finestra) at this beautiful house in Long Island. They gave me unlimited packs of cigarettes (not the crappy clove ones they normally use on set), so overall it was a good weekend.

Q. How is it as in actress in NY, coming from LA?

My experience in the acting world in Los Angeles in comparison to my experience in New York is night and day. For one, when I lived in Los Angeles I was 17 and living with these older actresses in their mid 20's. I’m 22 now, so it's obviously been a bit of time, but I do remember the networking world out there to be hilarious. There, the ratio of actors to the rest of the population is much higher than out here in NYC. Los Angeles is the place where I realized I was never going to be a girl that drank vodka. I spent a lot of nights borrowing my older friends Hervé Léger dresses and partying with washed up ex-Disney stars. When I moved back up to San Francisco to finish high school, it was just a massive culture shock to me - hanging out with people my own age, smoking weed in our parent's Subarus in mall parking lots. When I moved to NYC, I realized that networking is a little less about buying someone a lemon drop martini at a club and more about making an interpersonal connection. The acting world is much smaller out here, but I'd argue that it's even more exclusive. There are a lot more small, up and coming theatre companies than there are high budget production studios. Which was a little more of the speed I needed at the time. Any "celebrities" (because what does that word even fucking mean) that I've met out here, I feel like they come here for a higher level of anonymity. New Yorkers are busy, and they don't care about anyone else's petty shit or Kim Kardashian (for the most part), or whether or not that tan is real.

Q. Who would you like to work with in the industry?

Who do I want to work with? ***Alejandro González Goddamn Iñárritu ***, Paul Thomas Anderson, Wes Anderson (I might talk too slowly for him though), Sofia Coppola, either one or both of the Duplass brothers, the Coen brothers, the Jonas brothers. I also want to work with, and or date, Ellen Page and Louis CK, which ever one comes first.

Haley Andrewsen is a San Francisco native, who began her performance career by competing in improv competitions around San Francisco. She began formal acting training at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles. After moving to New York City, she continued her training at The Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theatre. Her work has been critically acclaimed, most notably for her leading role in Two Skeletons, which premiered at the InterFilm Festival in Berlin and The Bootleg Film Festival in NYC. Watch out for her in Martin Scorsese and Mick Jagger’s upcoming Untitled 70's Rock Project on HBO.

[thefriendterview]

The Songstress

Tracee Atanda-Owo, better known as OWO, is a stunning, Nigerian-American up-and-coming singer, songwriter, producer, and all around creative. Having attended University at The New School in Manhattan, she is currently blazing ahead with her career in New York City.

Q. What are you working on?

A. I'm currently working on music releases for the summer. No specific dates yet!

Q. Any gigs?

A. Yes, I have some shows coming up mid-summer. Locking down dates, but you'll be one of the first to know!

Q. Where do you get your sense of style?

A. My style is a mix of "70s gypsy, meets Nigerian print queen” lol. Needless to say, I am heavily inspired by that decade of my Nigerian culture.

Q. What is a goal of yours?

A. I have a deep answer lol. I want to show my mother, who came from Nigeria to raise my sister and I, that the "American Dream" is possible, and to spread love/connect with people through lyrics, melodies, and through me... plus, have fun while doing it! Also, to release my upcoming EP.

 http://www.traceeowo.com/

https://twitter.com/ladyowoland

https://soundcloud.com/traceeowo

https://instagram.com/i.am.owo/