Posts

Posted on

Concerts.Cafe Presents Myron McKinley’s “The Speakeasy” with Rebecca Jade, Adam Aejaye Jackson, and Sy Smith

Florentino Buenaventura (CEO of EnterTalk and founder of Concerts.Cafe) launched the first of many in-person musical performances with artist-branded coffee and an all-star musical lineup!

A spectacular evening, starring The Myron McKinley Trio, featured Sy Smith (Chris Botti), Rebecca Jade (Sheila E.), Adam Aejaye Jackson (Toni Braxton), and dancer/choreographer Sonya Enchill Om (Alvin Ailey). These dynamic performers entertained the San Diego crowd on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at 7:00 pm at the Pavilion Theater. The in-person event was just one of many concerts headed by EnterTalk’s CEO Florentino Buenaventura who has erected a unique concert-going experience. Buenaventura is a pioneer who has continued to put on live (and streaming) concerts before and during the pandemic. He launched Concerts.Cafe last spring (with Paul Berezetsky, COO) as a promotional outlet and resource for musical artists and bands looking to build their online presence while supplementing their income via digital ticket sales and signature consumable merchandise. Partnering with The Legacy Resort Hotel and Spa, Concerts.Cafe launched its first monthly in-person concert at their 500-seat theater. The Roaring Twenties-themed show was a nod to the early 20th century variety/cabaret shows with art directed sets and the essence of theater. The talented musicians were bandleader/pianist Myron McKinley (Earth, Wind & Fire), upright bassist Ian Martin (David Foster), drummer/percussionist Stacey Lamont Sydnor (The Jacksons) with guitarist Tony Pulizzi (Stevie Wonder), and saxophonist and Grammy winner Gary Bias (Anita Baker). The spectacular band filled the evening with an amalgamation of New Orleans jazz, blues, and soul, accompanying the incredibly gifted vocalists.

Sonya Enchill Om, Gary Bias (R), and Tony Pulizzi in Back (L) (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

In attendance were bass fusion giant and 2-time Grammy-nominated Bunny Brunel (CAB), multi-award-winning recording artist/producer Kaylene Peoples (Hubert Laws), drummer/percussionist Walfredo Reyes Jr. (Chicago), and San Diego’s own producer/bassist Josquin des Pres (Jason Mraz, The Gipsy Kings)

The Featured Performers:

Myron McKinley is a Juilliard-trained pianist, producer, songwriter, film composer, and is the current musical director and keyboardist for the legendary ensemble Earth Wind & Fire. He has toured extensively with Stanley Clarke, Chaka Khan, En Vogue, Whitney Houston, and many others. Sy Smith has a vocal range spanning five octaves, doing background gigs with Whitney Houston in the late 90s, and has worked with trumpeter Chris Botti and Foreign Exchange. Rebecca Jade has a chameleon-like quality to her voice, where she delivers each song uniquely. Touring with Sheila E., she appeared in the Emmy-nominated Let’s Go Crazy: The GRAMMY Salute to Prince, and sang background vocals for Sir Elton John at the 2020 Academy Awards. And Adam Aejaye Jackson, a native of Detroit, Michigan, began singing in church at the early age of three and has worked with Toni Braxton, Melissa Manchester, David Foster, and others.

Featured Vocalists Adam Aejaye Jackson & Rebecca Jade (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“The Speakeasy” highlighted contemporary songs, arranged in styles from the Roaring Twenties! A bold statement of the era entertained the audience through music, set design, and costumes. Southern blues kicked off the festivities and set the tone for the awaiting audience. Tony Pulizzi was dynamic as he shredded on his guitar and ushered in vocalist Adam Aejaye Jackson. The audience was transfixed during Jackson’s moving rendition of ‘Walk on By.’ Other highlights of the evening were Rebecca Jade’s interpretation of Nat King Cole’s ‘Nature Boy,’ and closing act Sy Smith, who was stunning in her form-fitting 1920s quintessential black gown, gave a powerful performance of Sting’s ‘If You Love Somebody Set Them Free’; Smith’s entrance and exit was pure theater! With the audience eager for more, the musicians stepped up with a rousing encore with the Beatles classic, ‘Eleanor Rigby.’” –Schmooze Jazz Magazine

Sy Smith & Ian Martin (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

 

Florentino Buenaventura Talks About the Concept of Concerts.Cafe:

“We do concerts with coffee so people can engage the brand. If you weren’t present at the show, you will be able to see it recorded later online, but that magic from those in attendance is once-in-a-lifetime. The people there, the audience . . . it’s all a part of that magical experience. The energy was electric. With Myron—when he’s not on tour with Earth, Wind & Fire—we’re looking to do a more regular series. For the next one, we’re thinking about doing the 70s era with disco, soul, and featured singers.

Florentino continues . . .

“We don’t make money on music anymore, and sustaining a career for musicians, the music is in the marketing. For genre-specific musical styles, we can take it [worldwide] and give people access to a far-reaching live concert experience. During the pandemic, we were doing a lot of that. Then when we launched in April, we had a surprisingly big audience. In May, the live venues opened back up, causing a severe dip in revenue. Live streaming is the long game and an in-person concert . . . you’ll either sell-out or not. When you bring the two together, you have a residual income to go along with a one-off show. With Concert.Cafe, we’ve got the platform, the ticketing, and the ability to do the bundling packages with coffee and the concert or a dinner show. The food is simply amazing at The Legacy Hotel.”

EntertTalk’s CEO Florentino Buenaventura (Concerts.Cafe) poses with Renowned Bassist Bunny Brunel (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

About Concerts.Cafe

As the first interactive and immersive live streaming concert venue for lovers of live music and gourmet coffee, Concerts.Cafe is a unique, online concert experience for music fans and coffee connoisseurs. It is a web platform dedicated to pairing ticketed live music events and signature artist shops with consumable merchandise, offering shows in all genres with some of the finest organic flavors available in coffees and teas. Serving as a new revenue resource for music artists, Concerts.Cafe offers gourmet, artist-branded consumables and on-demand or live streaming music content to fans. Launched in April 2021, with a fantastic lineup of multiple music events and artist-inspired coffee flavors from which to choose Concerts.Cafe features special live streams and now in-person performances and artist coffee selections from a variety of musical artists and bands. (All in-person concerts adhere to Covid restrictions.) Visit https://concerts.cafe/

About The Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

In the midst of California’s breathtaking natural beauty and moments from San Diego’s world-renowned beaches, you’ll find Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa. Surrounded by the Legacy International Center, a state-of-the-art complex with countless features and attractions, the resort is unparalleled amidst San Diego and Southern California hotels. There is no more ideal destination for both leisure and corporate travel than right here at 875 Hotel Cir. S, San Diego, CA 92108. Visit: https://legacyresortandspa.com/

Posted on

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova Is Breathtaking and a Must See Musical Feast!

Romantic Bossa-Nova-Full Band

During these uncertain times and the unpredictability of opening and closing of concert venues, in between a bit of calm was a concert to be remembered with heartfelt romantic music, equipped with LA’s top musicians. Leading the way was the dynamic Kaylene Peoples with her show titled “Romantic Bossa-Nova” – a breathtaking concert that has found its way into the hearts of serious Bossa-nova enthusiasts on July 17, 2021. For starters, guest performer Larry Dunn, a 7-time Grammy-winning artist and original member/songwriter/keyboardist (formerly) of Earth Wind & Fire opened with a gripping performance of his composition “Runnin’.”

(Gallery Photos by Alex Kluft Photography)

Bunny Brunel (who became famous from his nine-year stint with Chick Corea), the 2-time Grammy-nominated bassist performed on fretless and (his BBEUB) upright bass; and probably wore the most hats that evening (at the Catalina Jazz Club) as musical director. The French-born American sang in Brazilian Portuguese and soloed on his fretless bass on Kaylene Peoples’s intriguing arrangement of “Aguas de Março” (Waters of March) from her Romantic Bossa-Nova 2020 release. With Chad Wackerman (Frank Zappa) on drums and Grammy-nominated Dennis Hamm (Thundercat) on the 9-foot grand piano at the revered Catalina Jazz Club, the musical score was beyond dynamic. Joined by Guitarist Joe Calderon (Dianne Reeves) and percussionist Jon Brooks (Macy Gray), the performers laid the foundation for an evening of “soulful” Bossa-nova, as described by Levy Lee Simon, who was in attendance that night.

Kaylene Peoples Singing (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“I am a big fan of Bossa-nova, and it was my first time seeing Kaylene Peoples perform her show; I was blown away by it. Her voice magically elevated and took me on a ride to another place and time. I don’t know many artists—male or female—that can sing and play the flute equally well. And to top it off, the show is so damn s**y. Peoples exudes sensuality with every move, with every sound, with every note. Kaylene’s band with Bunny Brunel and guest artist Larry Dunn is exceptional. I had a great time—I believe a great time was had by all.” –Levy Lee Simon, Multi-Award Winning Writer/Actor/Director/Producer

Photo: Alex Kluft (Dennis Hamm & Larry Dunn
Dennis Hamm & Larry Dunn (Photo: Alex Kluft )

There have been many incarnations of Bossa-nova since the style took off in America with “Desafinado” from Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd’s Jazz Samba in 1962; Dave Brubeck Quartet in January 1962, recording “Vento Fresco” from Bossa Nova USA; and Herbie Mann’s “One Note Samba” from his Brazil, Bossa Nova & Blues in late 1961 or early ’62. (Referenced from Jazz.FM 91 “How Brazil’s Bossa-nova Became All the Rage in ‘60s America,” by Marc Myers.) What Kaylene Peoples brings to the genre is a mix of American soulful tradition, jazz improvisation, and instrumental virtuosity, making “Romantic Bossa-nova” an original embodiment of the style. Kaylene’s love for music started as a child as she learned to solo on the flute while her father, who was a self-taught musician, would play the blues on the piano.

Kaylene Peoples on Flute (Photo: Alex Kluft)
Kaylene Peoples on Flute (Photo: Alex Kluft)

 

“I always love to talk about how I got started improvising. Sometimes my dad and I would be up at 3am just jamming, playing my flute until my mom would cut it off! I was just a kid. I had to get up in the morning and go to school! Those are fond memories for me. I thank my dad for pushing me. I loved it! And to this day, I incorporate my flute in my compositions and my performances.”—Kaylene Peoples

These early musical experiences inspired Kaylene to compose and arrange music. She went on to study composition with Academy Award-winners Walter Scharf, David Raksin, and Henry Mancini. She’s written symphonies, a ballet, and countless string arrangements throughout her career. This education comes through as a recording artist and can be heard in her jazz albums off of her Boogsey Music label: All Jazzed Up! (2005), The Meaning of Christmas (2013), My Man (2015), Carol of the Bells (2017), and Romantic Bossa-Nova (2020).

Chad Wackerman (Drums), Jon Brooks (Percussion), Nina Harris (BG Vocals), Joe Calderon (Guitar), Larry Dunn (Guest Artist) (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“Music speaks to our souls. I can change a scene or change a MOOD. Creating something from nothing, and watching how it affects others is what moves me. Whether it is a standalone composition or a new arrangement on a well-loved song, I love to watch people’s faces when they hear my compositions and arrangements. And countless people have told me that they were blessed by my music. Those testimonies are what moves me the most!” Formidable Women’s Magazine, “Kaylene Peoples – The Renaissance Woman” Interview by Jules Lavallee

Joe Calderon (Photo: Alex Kluft)
Joe Calderon (Photo: Alex Kluft)

 

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova was inspired by a private concert that featured singer/actress Chase Masterson (Star Trek: Deep Space 9, Leeta) with guest performer Dave Pell (Saxophonist & Founder of West Coast Jazz). Sadly only a few months after that first “Romantic Bossa-Nova” show, Dave Pell passed away. Kaylene Peoples in collaboration with Chase Masterson, and co-composer Bunny Brunel wrote “Dave Pell-Just for Fun.” The song is featured on the Romantic Bossa-Nova CD. So what can one expect from Peoples’s show: “So Nice” and “Spain” off of My Man CD; “Once I Loved,” “How Insensitive,” “One Note Samba,” and “Girl from Ipanema” from All Jazzed Up! Then from Romantic Bossa-Nova, “Berimbau,” “Telephone Song,” “Agua de Beber,” “Corcovado,” “Waters of March,” “Bésame Mucho,” and “Dindi.” Every Kaylene Peoples concert comes with an element of mystique. Whether it’s a surprise giveaway, or a heart-to-heart with an audience member during a set, or maybe even a surprise celebrity guest performer.

Designer Kevan Hall, Luisa Dunn, and Larry Dunn (Photo: Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

 

“I was so very blessed to sit in on a couple of songs during this beautiful concert with the extremely talented and beautiful Kaylene whose vocals and flute performance was off the chain, which also featured my buddy, world-renowned bassist Bunny Brunel, along with the other unbelievably top notch musicians! It was truly an honor playing with these extremely talented “peoples”, no pun intended! And I am such a lover of Brazilian music, at any rate, all I can say is I had a ball and y’all should’ve been there!” – Larry Dunn

 

“I enjoyed this concert immensely. The ambiance and atmosphere was so relaxing, and seeing happy faces, it was so nice to get out and hear some real live music. The performance was wonderful and dreamy, and being of Latin decent, it was so refreshing to hear the hypnotic Brazilian rhythms. Kaylene’s vocals AND flute interpretations were awesome. Both original compositions and classics are so beautiful. I have the CD, and I love it; it was so wonderful to hear it live. And Bunny Brunel—everybody knows him as a bass giant; so many were surprised to hear him sing. What a treat. And Larry Dunn always brings some fire by playing those beautiful melodic solos. All the band members were on point and beyond! Great concert. So glad I was there.” Luisa Dunn, Vocalist/Producer/Composer, and Award-Winning Recording Artist

Kaylene Peoples Romantic Bossa-Nova
Kaylene Peoples Romantic-Bossa Nova

Kaylene Peoples will be performing “Romantic Bossa-Nova” with opening performer Gary Stockdale on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at 8:00 pm at Feinstein’s at Vitello’s, located at 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City, CA, 91604.

For Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kaylene-peoples-romantic-bossa-nova-tickets-166528171243

“I like to keep people guessing. I’ll change up my material and even introduce a new flavor to the set. I just love observing the reactions of the audience. And as long as those beautiful souls are smiling and dancing in their seats, I’m happy. With my next Romantic Bossa-Nova concert, there just might be a surprise guest performance. You’ll just have to buy a ticket to find out!” –Kaylene Peoples, Multi-Award Winning Recording Artist & Producer

About Kaylene Peoples: L.A. Music Awards-winning Producer Kaylene’s first jazz CD All Jazzed Up! (2005) made a splash across the nation when her single “Do You Remember” was played across the country. The single climbed to the top of the independent charts (AC40/NMW! Top 100 Chart/FMQB & ACQB! and Indie 100 chart). Her 2015 release, My Man, blew up the airwaves and impressed concertgoers. Her song “Giant Steps” is an (Akademia) award-winner, featuring Hubert Laws, Bunny Brunel, and Bobby Lyle. And her CD Romantic Bossa-Nova (2020) is a smash hit amongst Bossa-nova fans. This former model and two-time State Beauty Pageant winner boast a rare 5-octave vocal range, is a multi-instrumentalist, and is a composer/arranger/conductor. Kaylene’s soloing instrument of choice is the flute. In honor of her father, she incorporates it heavily into her music. Peoples has performed/recorded with Bunny Brunel, Bobby Lyle, Hubert Laws, Stanley Clarke, Patrice Rushen, Jeff Goldblum, Larry Dunn, and others. Kaylene Peoples continues to blow her audiences away with her incredible vocal performances and equally impressive instrumental virtuosity! Visit: https://www.kaylenepeoples.com

The Romantic Bossa-Nova CD: Romantic Bossa-Nova is a breathtaking musical performance with a uniquely heart-warming interpretation of Bossa-nova at its best. Antonio Carlos Jobim, Cole Porter, Norman Gimbel, Vinicius de Moraes, and others with the songs “Night & Day,” “Corcovado,” “Waters of March,” “Dindi,” “Berimbau,” “Besame Mucho,” and more sung in Portuguese, English, and French by award-winning recording artist/producer/musician Kaylene Peoples. The CD features internationally acclaimed and 2-time Grammy-nominated bassist Bunny Brunel with a special treat on “Waters of March” (Aguas de Marços), where Bunny sings a duet in Brazilian Portuguese with Kaylene, and Bunny plays a “mean” Brazilian rhythm guitar the entire album while soloing and grooving on fretless and upright bass in the traditional Latin style! Since the first Romantic Bossa-Nova concert in 2016, Kaylene Peoples has been performing this show and touching the hearts of romantics, leading up to the release of the album in 2020.  Romantic Bossa-Nova is touted as the most romantic show in town, and growing in popularity with every performance!

Posted on

AGENDA Midsummer 2021 Issue Is Dynamic, Featuring Cover Model Lindy Flowers in “A Midsummer’s Daydream.”

165 pages of killer content features BDC’s Rodney Epperson & Aaron Potts, Verified’s Monica Dogra & BlacKkKlansman’s Kevin Willmott. We talk corsets, health, beauty, models & movies from best-selling books! Agenda Issue #15 packs a powerful punch!

Lindy Flowers, model, wife, and mother of two, is Agenda’s stunning cover model for the Midsummer 2021, Issue #15. She has graced Agenda’s cover once online, was featured in several fashion spreads, and was even Agenda’s spokes model before the magazine expanded to print. Flowers has walked in shows for Oscar de La Renta and Bill Blass, appeared in countless fashion editorials, as well as several magazine covers. This issue, she stars in “A Midsummer’s Daydream”—a swimsuit editorial that celebrates women. The all-female team for the shoot includes photographer Cathy Cunningham, wardrobe stylist Sabrina Feldman, makeup and hair by Alma Mahmood, and produced by Kaylene Peoples. The editorial was shot on location with swimwear ranging from La Blanca to Solid Striped. And Hailey Flowers, a dancer and Miss Junior Teen Nevada United States 2019 & 1st Runner Up Miss California’s Outstanding Teen 2021, is featured in the editorial “Sun-Kissed,” making this a mother-daughter “fun-in-the-sun” collaboration.

“The great thing about the industry is it’s ever changing. When I started at 19, it was supposed to be a short shelf life, over by 25. There’s a whole group of fantastic models that has steered a path in terms of growing older. I think people can relate to models of all different ages and sizes now, whereas before, everybody was trying to fit into a size 0.” –Lindy Flowers, Agenda Cover Model

Photographer Ash Gupta debuts Verified, featuring Indian music sensation and podcast host Monica Dogra; and Manasvi is featured in Gupta’s “Out of the Woods” editorial.

Monica Dogra and Manasvi

In “Romanticism Redefined,” designer Rebecca Taylor previews of her Fall 2021 looks, “ . . . with resolved gestures, newfound romance manifests in eyelet, pleats, and embroidery in robust interactions.” –Rebecca Taylor

Agenda Issue 15 Contents

Beauty by Shahada Karim reviews May Lindstrom, SMD Cosmetics, and Bynacht in “Seasonal Skin Saviors”; Introducing a new line of incredible body creams and candles by Bond No. 9 in “Reintroducing Bond No. 9; and Agenda’s beauty editor explores the Rose Hermès collection in the article “Hermès and the Summer Flush.”

Melanie Wise sheds light on the importance of maintaining liver function in her article “Fight or Flight Mode Is Your Body’s Way of Saying CHANGE YOUR DIET!”

“Our largest expenditure of energy on a daily basis is our food. The more chemicals that we eat, the more processed the food is, and the more energy it takes to break it down. One of the easiest ways to get the body to right itself is to decrease the energetic load of digestion. Once you do that, suddenly and magically it goes “ooh . . . let me fix this and let me fix that!” And you’ll find that the whole system tends to work better.” –Melanie Wise, Wise Remedies

Zac Baldwin reviews a series of movies made from best-selling books—authors include Stephen King, David Baldacci, and Elmore Leonard.

“I waited with trepidation for the movie The Princess Bride to finally be made. It took a long time, but wow was it worth it! It captured the essence of the book, the humor, the unusual and riveting characters, and of course true love.” –Zac Baldwin, Book Reviews

AGENDA Issue 15 Masthead

Sheryl Aronson (Arting Around) interviews BlacKkKlansman’s Academy Award-winning screenwriter Kevin Willmott.

“Growing up watching award shows with my mother and having the fantasy that one day I was going to win an Oscar, was my dream. When it actually happened, I felt the privilege of it, because there are many great artists who have never won. It also opens up opportunities but gives you newfound responsibilities. You have to be willing to take things to the next level. That’s the most important thing it has meant for me. I felt it was a great privilege to have won an Oscar for a movie that I believed in. That’s something a lot of people don’t have an opportunity to do.” – Kevin Willmott, Academy Award-Winning Screenwriter

The Black Design Collective features designers Aaron Potts (APOTTS) and former Project Runway contestant Rodney Epperson (EPPERSON). In their interviews, they talk about their inspirations, as well as their creations in the interviews “APOTTS: Designed to Make Us Take Pause” and “The REBIRTH of Epperson.”

APOTTS and EPPERSON

Celebrity stylist Ty-Ron Mayes talks about athleisure wear and new ways to style sweatshirts in “The Sweatshirt Goes Next Level Fierce!”

“From Balenciaga to Givenchy, sweatshirts have leveled up. Once upon a time these sweatshirts used to be just super comfy tops for college kids and sports enthusiasts, but today’s sweatshirts are more glamorous then ever.” – Ty-Ron Mayes, Fashion Whisperer

The Midsummer 2021 issue has a frenzy of fashion with runway from Milan, Berlin, and Jakarta (British Council), featuring designers Hugo Boss, ThreeOnes, Xevi Fernandez, Outsiders Division, and Intoart x and John Smedley’s capsule collection. Fashion Archives opens Agenda’s time capsule with runway from the past (2013) by Sally La Pointe and (2012) Made in Africa by Arise, featuring top African designers, including images from pop vocalist Leona Lewis, photographed by Arun Nevader.

AGENDA Issue 15 Back Cover

Fashion Talk by editor-in-chief Kaylene Peoples authors a historical retrospective that delves into the practice of waist training in “Corsetry & Morality: The History of Tightlacing”:

“When I watch shows like Bridgerton where corseting is its own character, or the film Moulin Rouge with Nicole Kidman who suffered a broken rib from tightlacing, why aren’t I phased? Because I, like so many women, see the value in corsetry—after all, they do shape the body. Of all the snake oil being peddled today, it is the one accessory that follows through on its claims—wear it and look amazing! As far as waist trainers, the modified corset, they are body drill sergeants that train our waists to behave. They smooth our bulges and boost our self-esteem. So, the big question is whether to corset or not to corset . . . the choice is yours. Either let it all hang out or tuck that tummy in and leave to everyone else’s imagination what’s underneath! –Kaylene Peoples, Fashion Talk

About AGENDA:

The fashion and lifestyle magazine that has been telling the story behind the story since 2004, is a print and online magazine with a diverse readership, consisting mostly of women from various backgrounds, ranging from college age to 65 years old and beyond. Touted as ‘the intelligent read,’ Agenda is credited for being the first online magazine to stream video and documentary-style interviews. In print since 2014 (including the Special Editions and Collector’s Issues), the magazine has consistently put out breathtaking coffee table keepsakes with content, including fashion, beauty, photography, interviews, entertainment, and more. Agenda magazine is available in print worldwide! Visit https://www.agendamag.com (Social Media @agendamag)

The multicultural fashion and lifestyle magazine crosses continents, bringing a new perspective to the world of fashion and journalism. Agenda’s Midsummer 2021, Issue #15 has a 165-page count, and is a full-color glossy periodical. Listen to Podcasts for extended interviews of Rodney Epperson and Lindy Flowers at https://www.agendamag.com/category/podcast. Agenda is published by KL Publishing Group.

Posted on

Tom Wright Unveils His New Paintings at the West Hollywood Summer Free Jazz & Art Festival with a Live Jazz Concert.

Top jazz musicians Bunny Brunel and Kaylene Peoples perform “Romantic Bossa-Nova” to celebrate acclaimed artist Tom Wright’s newest abstracts at La Bohème Café in West Hollywood on Thursday, July 8, 2021.

Abstract painter Tom Wright will be unveiling his bigger-than-life canvases at the West Hollywood Summer Free Jazz and Art Festival on July 8, 2021, from 9 am throughout the evening at La Bohème Café, located at 8400 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA. As a long-term resident of West Hollywood, Mr. Wright has supported the community for years. “These are large, full-color art pieces, painted on a canvas that is 9 feet by 15 feet and 6 feet by 9 feet . . . with vivid colors and patterns of happiness,” says Wright. This is the second exhibit Tom Wright has had at La Bohème Café. His previous showing was only a month prior where he showed his framed paintings chosen from his vast collection of abstracts.

tom-wright-abstract-painter
Tom Wright (Abstract Painter)

“If you look up “Renaissance Man,” surely the name “Tom Wright” would come up — If nothing more than discussing his varied art which imitates life. Through his complex journey as an artist, his forms and expressions are reminiscent of the Picassos, the Van Goghs, and the French impressionists. Something as basic as a shopping bag could be his subject.” —Agenda Magazine

“This artist has been attracting a lot of attention lately due to his ‘think outside of the box’ approach to abstract art.” —TheHollywoodTimes.today

Internationally famous, two-time Grammy-nominated bassist Bunny Brunel and award-winning recording artist (jazz vocalist/flutist) Kaylene Peoples will perform “Romantic Bossa-Nova” with Grammy-nominated keyboardist Dennis Hamm, guitarist Joe Calderon, and drummer/percussionist Jon Brooks. The concert is from 11 am to 12:30 pm.

The event is at La Bohème Café (The Outdoors Cafe) , located at 8400 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 on Thursday, July 8, 2021, with the Tom Wright art exhibit starting from 11 am – all day.

The Outdoors Cafe

About Tom Wright:

The Los Angeles artist, Tom Wright, exhibited three examples from his catalogue of paintings that were created over his lifetime. His abstract entitled “The Wolf at the Door” may unlock your fear of the unknown by focusing on the wolf’s menacing image at the door to your world, peeping through the door blinds. On further evaluation, there seems to be a faceless image with an orange hat that makes the viewer question whether or not the wolf is on the inside, and the orange faceless image is looking in! Tom will often combine many worlds in his paintings and may even incorporate more lines and levels to keep the gallery of people guessing where he’s going with his art, leaving much to the viewer’s interpretation. A prolific painter whose art crosses multiple platforms, Wright’s medium of choice is acrylics and he is a master at impressionism and complex abstracts, using anything from canvas to paper bags, and painting satire to self-portraits with themes ranging from somber to joyful to alarming.  Great use of the color palette, Tom Wright’s paintings are imaginative, colorful, and emotionally stirring, and a favorite amongst local galleries. Visit: IG mrtomewright

About Bunny Brunel:

When it comes to the bass, two-time Grammy-nominated Bunny Brunel is the master and a musician’s musician! From defining his signature style on fretless, upright, and electric basses, to authoring numerous instructional books on bass technique and theory, there is no end to Brunel’s musical mind. Bunny has 15 albums from his first, titled Touch (1978) to his latest, the highly praised historical CD Bass-Ball (2017), a co-production with Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke. Bunny’s band CAB earned a Grammy nomination for CAB 2 Best Contemporary Jazz Album. Bunny Brunel is revered as one of the four who started the jazz-fusion bass movement (with Stanley Clarke, Jaco Pastorius, and Jeff Berlin). He was a member of Chick Corea’s band for 9 years, earning him his first Grammy nomination, and has played with Tony Williams, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, etc. He has graced the covers of (PN’P) Plug N Play, Bass Musician, Basics; and has been featured in Bass Player, No Treble, Bassiste, For Bass Players Only, and others; and now Brunel holds the prestigious title as the Editor at Large of Virtuoso Bass magazine! Visit: https://www.bunnybrunel.com

About Kaylene Peoples:

L.A. Music Awards-winning Producer Kaylene’s first jazz CD All Jazzed Up! (2005) made a splash across the nation when her single “Do You Remember” was played across the country. The single climbed to the top of the independent charts (AC40/NMW! Top 100 Chart/FMQB & ACQB! and Indie 100 chart). Her 2015 release, My Man, blew up the airwaves and impressed concertgoers. Her song “Giant Steps” is an (Akademia) award-winner, featuring Hubert Laws, Bunny Brunel, and Bobby Lyle. And her CD Romantic Bossa-Nova (2020) is a smash hit amongst Bossa-Nova fans. This former model and two-time State Beauty Pageant winner (Miss California Young Miss; Miss Golden State) boasts a rare 5-octave vocal range, is a multi-instrumentalist, and a composer/arranger/conductor. Kaylene’s soloing instrument of choice is the flute. In honor of her father, she incorporates it heavily into her music. Peoples has performed/recorded with Bunny Brunel, Bobby Lyle, Hubert Laws, Stanley Clarke, Patrice Rushen, Jeff Goldblum, Larry Dunn, and others. Kaylene Peoples continues to blow her audiences away with her incredible vocal performances and equally impressive instrumental virtuosity! Visit: https://www.kaylenepeoples.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on

AWIAFF 6th Edition Films Screening Now Online Through May 10, 2021

Melanie Wise, director of the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival 6th Edition (AWIAFF) announces all-access pass availability and scheduled events with Master of Ceremonies Chase Masterson. Artemis welcomes ActorsGuru, iNDIEFLIX, Backstage and Movie Maker as sponsors.  

Doing a 30-day virtual event with massive content is not for the faint of heart. During a time when virtual is the most common place for a crowd to gather, Team Artemis expects an enthusiastic assemblage of avid filmgoers, hungry for content featuring WOMEN IN ACTION. Chase Masterson (Star Trek: DS9) returns for a second year to host the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival 6th Edition. This edition of the festival expands its streaming of the event. In past years, the majority of fans congregated in theaters with live entertainers, honorees, filmmakers, musicians, and guests gathering for fours days of nonstop screenings, panel discussions, award ceremonies, and special events. The annual place to network and enjoy new movies is now only online, serving audiences in homes and on mobile devices around the world. Since the yearly event was held the third weekend of April, in recognition of the physical festival in past years, Artemis planned several virtual special events to commemorate this third weekend (23rd-25th) in April 2021.

Chase-Melanie-Danielle

 

 

Friday evening, the 23rd marks the first night of virtual special events with Master of Ceremonies Chase Masterson, delivering the formal festival welcome, and will include special appearances from Artemis’ past honorees. The evening will finish with the 2021 headlining films. Competition awards for all filmmakers, screenplay writers, and musicians will be announced on Sunday evening, the 25th of April. Artemis is delighted to welcome back the All Stars of Stunts panel discussion with stunt woman Dejay Roestenberg and actresses/stuntwomen Marissa Labog and Alyma Dorsey. The panel will be hosted by filmmaker/stunt woman Danielle Burgio.  Additionally, AWIAFF 6th Edition introduces The Writers Roundtable with screenplay finalists and Musical Corners with music finalists.

The festival’s all-access pass (https://www.artemisfilmfestival.com/2021-pass/) is available now and grants admittance to all festival events. All festival content will be accessible through May10, 2021. (Who knows, there may even be some bonus viewing days!)

The Artemis Women In Action Film Festival welcomes ActorGuru and iNDIEFLIX as sponsors.

• ActorsGuru will provide prize memberships winning actresses and actors.

• iNDIEFLIX will provide an offer of distribution to a winning feature film.

• Backstage will offer casting codes to all 2021 Artemis submitters.

• Movie Maker will offer subscription discounts to all 2021 Artemis submitters.

 

 

ActorsGuru® is a one-stop shop career management tool for actors. A home for your business, relationships, auditions, and training, ActorsGuru® allows you to manage all your career details, photos, videos, and files in a single location accessible from your desktop and mobile device. All your information, fully searchable and fully findable in one place.

iNDIEFLIX distributes purpose-driven content that gives voice to the marginalized, feeds cultural curiosities, pushes for social change, builds community, educates, and entertains. The “Netflix of Independent Film” (Variety), they have streamed independent features, shorts, and series for the last 10 years, and have a library of over 4,300 films. Each filmmaker who streams with iNDIEFLIX is paid per viewer and minute watched of their films – royalty-free. CEO Scilla Andreen said: “We celebrate unique voices and stories, and are thrilled to be part of the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival. Good luck to all, and we look forward to welcoming the winning films into our streaming stable.”

You can find out more about iNDIEFLIX at indieflix.com, or explore their streaming library at watch: indieflix.com

Backstage: Since 1960, Backstage is the #1 platform for filmmakers and casting directors to find top-notch talent, including some of today’s well-known stars. Backstage offers a sleek and innovative suite of advanced and easy-to-use online casting tools in conjunction with our vast library of educational resources and expert advice. With over 100,000 international performers submitting to projects daily, finding the right talent for your project has never been easier. How will you use Backstage? Post your project today on Backstage today and experience casting you can trust.

Visit www.Backstage.com

MovieMaker is for anyone who loves moviemaking. It is focused on the art and craft of movies and cinematic TV. Our core readers make movies, buy tickets, and vote for awards. They are decision-makers who look to us for inspiration, community and actionable information. We offer profiles, advice, insider tips and product reviews that they use to make smart, informed decisions about what they watch — and what they create.

Check us out on newsstands or at www.moviemaker.com

About Artemis Women In Action Film Festival:

Melanie Wise and Zac Baldwin, two filmmakers with a longtime love of female-driven action films, together founded the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival. Wise and Baldwin have produced shorts and features, focusing on female action projects. They saw that audiences around the world loved the genre despite the fact that studios (for many years) claimed female action films were box office poison. In 2014, the idea of Artemis was born with the intent to create a space where these types of films could play for audiences with an unsatisfied hunger for female-driven action films. And for the 6th Edition, Artemis is proud to include for the second year women-powered music, sponsored by Bella Composers (https://www.bellacomposers.org).

Visit https://www.artemisfilmfestival.com

Posted on

Bobby Lyle’s Single “Living in the Flow” Enters Billboard at #25 for Smooth Jazz National Airplay Off His New CD IVORY FLOW.

Legendary pianist/organist Bobby Lyle has returned to the recorded music scene in serious smooth and contemporary mode with his new single “Living in the Flow.” The tight rhythm section provides the perfect radio-friendly backdrop for Lyle’s signature piano melodies. This tune is only 1of 11 tracks that comprise a complete album. The CD, Ivory Flow: Bobby Lyle and Friends, features some of the genre’s biggest names.

With 16 album releases, Bobby Lyle does a slam-dunk with his newest CD titled Ivory Flow, featuring Lyle on all keyboards and an all-star lineup of guest artists. The single, “Living in the Flow,” entered Billboard at #25 and features bassist Nate Phillips, guitarist Kerry Wilkens, trumpeter Vincent Gross, and drummer Jay Williams. And the list of musicians on the entire album includes heavy hitters in the world of contemporary and traditional jazz, including Stanley Clarke, Rick Braun, Brian Bromberg, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Najee Rashad; Marcus Miller, Everette Harp, Paul Jackson Jr., Vinnie Colaiuta, and John Patitucci, and others.

Bobby Lyle's Lineup
Bobby Lyle and his A-Star Lineup

“I am truly excited to get this new album out there,” said Lyle while relaxing at home.  Mainly because it’s sort of a reunion album in that I was able to send out files to friends who appeared on my albums in the past, are stars in their own right with their own discographies, but were all completely dedicated to making the songs come to life.  So don’t be surprised as you go through it to suddenly hear a Gerald Albright or a Marcus Miller or a Rick Braun, just to name a few. Working at home primarily was something new for me, but I love the relaxed, no-clock pressure environment; and sending out files is the way we have to do it nowadays, because of the pandemic and everyone living in different cities.  The trick is to make it sound and feel like we were all in the studio hittin’ together. And I can happily say I think we achieved that.” – Bobby Lyle

Bobby Lyle is known as a serious jazz pianist and has crossed genres spanning his career. He set a precedent as a jazz-fusion wonder with The Genie (1977) to contemporary jazz, r&b, and his blues-inspired The Way I Feel (2013), where he pays tribute to Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery while showing his chops on the Hammond B3 organ. Eight years later and three years in the making, “Living in the Flow” bursts on the scene, letting the genie out of his lamp.

“‘Living in the Flow’ was chosen as the first radio single because of the front and center piano melodies, and the airwaves-friendly groove laid down by bassist Nate Phillips and drummer Jay Williams. Kerry Wilkens gave me superb guitar work on this one. I love to observe the flow of life, whether it’s children on a playground, people bustling through a busy airport, birds and squirrels in the park, or me just silently driving through the countryside. This song seems to reflect all of that. The inspiration for this Ivory Flow Project was two-fold. First, it had been at least six years since I had put out any new product. And secondly, my writing (which had never stopped) had created quite a backlog of songs. Add to this the constant inquiries from my fans about when was something new coming and you can see the boiling point that was finally reached. When I told myself “it’s time for you to get busy in that studio. I rolled up my sleeves and never looked back. More than two years later, here is Ivory Flow ready for the marketplace.” – Bobby Lyle Interview, Schmoozejazz.com

 

TRACK LIST FOR IVORY FLOW—BOBBY LYLE & FRIENDS

1.) “Living In The Flow” Featuring Kerry Wilkens Guitar, Vincent Gross Trumpet, Nate Phillips Bass, and Jay Williams drums (Listen)

2.) Feel the Heat Featuring Najee Rashad Flute, Stanley Clarke Bass, Sonny Emory Drums, and Lenny Castro Percussion

3.) “In A Sentimental Mood” (by Duke Ellington) Featuring Tatiana Mayfield Vocals, Rick Braun Trumpet, and Brian Bromberg Bass

4.) “Hello Maceo” Featuring Gerald Albright and Kirk Whalum Saxes, Najee Rashad Flute, Marcus Miller Bass, Andre Hayward Trombone

5.) “Where Are You” Featuring Everette Harp saxophone and Tatiana Mayfield Vocals

6.) “What Kind of World” Featuring Kyle Turner & Ken Mondshine Saxes, Jon Calderon Guitar, Tatiana Mayfield & Andre Venson Vocals.

7.) “Spirit Song” Featuring Kirk Whalum Sax, Andre Hayward Trombone, Paul Jackson, Jr. Guitar

8.) “Tommy’s Song” Featuring Najee Rashad Soprano Sax, and Billy Kilson Drums

9.) “Nujazzy” Featuring John Calderon Guitar, Nathan East Bass, and Vinnie Colaiuta Drums 10.) “Cleo’s Waltz” Featuring Marion Meadows Soprano Sax, John Patitucci Bass, and Mark Simmons Drums

11.) “Indigo Nights” Bobby Lyle all Keyboards.

living-in-the-flow-single

“Being shut in by the pandemic has given artists something we previously never seemed to have enough of: TIME! People have chosen to use it in different ways, but it has been an opportunity for me to go deeper into my artistry: Playing, composing, and teaching. I have reconnected with some of my classical books and that has opened up new musical avenues. But most importantly, I was able to focus on finishing Ivory Flow. I can’t call it a comeback album because I never stopped performing and being active in music. Let’s say I’m re-emerging as a recording entity with this project. It contains 11 tracks, 10 of them originals, plus Duke Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood” sung beautifully by Tatiana Mayfield. It is also a reunion project of sorts in that I sent out tracks to guys who have participated on my previous recordings. Most are solo artists in their own right with their own discographies. They all came through in spectacular fashion.” – Bobby Lyle, Schmoozejazz.com

Bobby Lyle has had many achievements, such as getting to #1 on the Billboard Jazz Album chart with The Journey in 1991. The Atlantic release contained the song “Viva Mandela,” which celebrated Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. Lyle recounts his performance of “Viva Mandela” with Nelson Mandela in the audience beaming as he watched him perform the song. Additional highlights include Lyle’s first record deal with Capitol Jazz, touring, recording sessions, and most of all The Genie, his first project under his own name and the album that put him on the map.

When Capitol Records disbanded its entire jazz division, Lyle began musical directing for Phyliss Hyman, Bette Midler, Al Jarreau, and Anita Baker. All were stylistically different, creating a training ground for becoming a great accompanist, regardless of who the artist is. Al Jarreau took him on his first tour in Europe and the culmination of that tour is documented on the DVD Al Jarreau-Live In London. Bobby Lyle also toured with Bette Midler throughout America. That experience earned him an Emmy.

“One of the most versatile keyboardists on the music scene, Lyle is an established composer, bandleader, producer/arranger, musical director, music publisher, jazz educator, recording artist, and world class live performer. Audiences everywhere continue to be mesmerized by Lyle’s melodic compositions and dazzling piano technique.” — Allaboutjazz.com

ABOUT BOBBY LYLE:

Bobby Lyle was inducted in the Black Music Awards (BMA) Hall of Fame in Houston, Texas, on November 8, 2020. He has toured with George Benson then became musical director for singers Phyllis Hyman, Bette Midler (with whom he received an Emmy nomination for musical direction after her HBO special Diva Las Vegas in 1999), Al Jarreau, and Anita Baker. After a live audition for Atlantic Records, he signed a deal, recording six albums in nine years then followed three albums on independent labels: Joyful and Straight and Smooth for Three Keys; and Hands On for the Heads Up label. In 2013, Lyle created the label New Warrior Music to go with his Genie Productions company and he produced and released a tribute to his Hammond B-3 idol Jimmy Smith called The Way I Feel. He also maintained his career as a jazz piano instructor and practitioner of master classes in colleges and High schools. A return to the contemporary/smooth genre he helped to pioneer the single “Living In The Flow,” which is blowing up the airwaves. Best known for his epic album, The Genie, Lyle continues to perform regularly, playing piano and organ with his band, as a featured artist, and as a solo pianist.  After 15 album releases, he has done it again from the New Warrior Music label with the release with Ivory Flow!

Visit Bobbylylethegenie.com and The Genie Record Store the purchase Ivory Flow.

Posted on

Agenda Collector’s Issue 2021: “Changemakers” Shines A Floodlight On Women And People Of Color

Mar 15, 2021 (AB Digital via COMTEX) — The multicultural fashion and lifestyle magazine makes a statement as its editorial team incorporates Women’s History Month and Black History Month together in Agenda magazine’s “Changemakers,” featuring WITH HER FIST RAISED (the biography of Dorothy Pitman Hughes) as the lead story. Other features include the first Black male supermodel Renauld White, the first Black supermodel with albinism Diandra Forrest, playwright/actor Levy Lee Simon, women’s suffrage activist Susan B. Anthony; the work of celebrity photographer Michael Benabib, and the Black Design Collective’s Kevan Hall, Byron Lars, and Octavius Terry-Sims.

This is a world that has created holidays for every month and nearly every one of the 365 days in the Gregorian calendar. And based on each individual’s preferences, choosing which holidays are the most meaningful, and keeping them all “straight” can be daunting. However, two very significant months are very near and dear to Agenda magazine’s heart — February for African Americans and March for Women. In “A Letter from Your Editor,” Kaylene Peoples gives us insight on what sparked the idea for “Changemakers.”

“We’ve come a long way … or have we?  That is a question that is always up for debate.  As a woman in a man’s world, this saying is useful. Women have made strides over time, and particularly in the early 20th century. We won the right to vote. Then we won seats in Congress, and now we are the Vice President of the United States. A victory is a victory, right? However, as a nation, America is coming to the equal rights game a little late. Other countries have had women as chief executives for a while. Then there is another little problem:  Race, and why do we still have the divide. 

I started working on this collector’s issue with the thought of focusing on Black History Month. Then, I thought again. Oddly the two “minority” celebrations in our Jim Crow nation just happen to be adjacent: February (the short month) reserved for African Americans and March (on its tail) for women. Aren’t we fortunate to have our own month! All sarcasm aside, focusing on race and focusing on gender should be a moot point by now, yet it isn’t. The decision to combine the two months made more sense to me. And instead of calling it “Black this” and “Women that,” the title, ‘Changemakers,’ made the cut. Agenda Collector’s Issue 2021: ‘Changemakers’ is here to celebrate the achievements and ongoing pioneering of trailblazers, who just happen to be women and people of color!” – Kaylene Peoples, Editor-in-Chief of Agenda Magazine

“Changemakers” is filled with great stories and interviews, beautiful fashion editorials, and some surprises. From two “firsts” in the world of supermodels to activists, playwrights, book reviews, photography; beauty, health, and humanitarianism, the 2021 collector’s issue is not only exciting but interesting and informative.

Here’s what’s in the issue:

With Her Fist Raised: Dorothy Pitman Hughes and the Transformative Power of Black Community Activism

This biography was written by Professor Laura LeeAnn Lovett, a historian and author of other relevant books on women and race issues. Lovett talks about the process of completing her book about the life of Dorothy Pitman Hughes who is the co-founder of Ms. Magazine with Gloria Steinem, an effective civil and women’s rights activist, the first to start a child daycare center, and a former Miss America Franchise owner. Here’s what Laura had to say in this interview.

“I’m really hoping that we go back and rethink what we know about history and reassess our assumptions about African American women and feminism. Dorothy is somebody who is self-made, who figures out what she needs to do, and figures out community needs and does it; she created the childcare office and program for the whole city. I think that understanding that the importance of that message of ‘you can do it, that what is possible comes from the community’ is really the most important part of this book, about her life, and what I take away from learning about her. — Laura L. Lovett, Author

An Unexpected Advocate: Susan B. Anthony Is Still Relevant Today

Susan B. Anthony is a well-known historical figure that fought her entire life for the suffrage movement, as well as being an abolitionist who played her own part in the civil rights movement. This article is a historical retrospective on this Quaker-turned-activist.

“We might question why a woman who was born in 1820, and a Quaker nonetheless, would champion such a dangerous cause, bound to deliver reverberating backlashes.  We might even consider the fact that she had no real resources other than the support of her parents; exampled by them removing her from the school that wouldn’t teach girls math and placing her in an educational program that offered her equal learning.

In 1863, together Susan B. Anthony, Matilda Joslyn Gage, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton founded the Women’s Loyal National League, which orchestrated the largest petition drive in United States history up to that time; they collected close to 400,000 signatures in support of abolishing slavery. In 1866, they initiated the American Equal Rights Association, which campaigned for equal rights for both women and African Americans. This is what led to them publishing [the newspaper] The Revolution.” – Kaylene Peoples, Agenda

The Black Design Collective’s new president Kevan Hall, and new BDC members Byron Lars and Octavius Terry-Sims inspire us to consider buying Black. The Nielson Ratings reported that Blacks spend annually upwards of 1.7 trillion dollars, buying clothes and accessories. This piece of information has spurred a community of designers that promote, market, educate, mentor, and raise money for this nonprofit and fashion collective.

 

 

 

Agenda interviews the three designers:

Kevan Hall – Changing the Face of Fashion Retail with the Black Design Collective

“Who knew that when 2020 came around, a pandemic would hit like it did? We immediately shifted into gear as to what we could do to help our designers sustain their businesses, so we started doing a series of workshops. And these workshops were to help our folks figure out how to get a PPP Loan, Unemployment Insurance as an independent designer or contractor eligible for unemployment, where usually self-employed people couldn’t get it. They needed to know how they could get grants.” – Kevan Hall, President & Celebrity Designer

Getting to Know Byron Lars as he talks Barbie and Celebrities

Byron Lars prior to designing Black Barbie collectibles for Mattel,“I was on a very shallow level with Barbie and not on a soapbox about inclusion, but I learned it was really meaningful.  All those white dolls all those years, and the ones they just copied on a Black doll with none of the colors and sensibilities really had nothing to do with us.”

On designing for celebrities,“I don’t really put the celebrity moment ahead of my average customer, because it really does come back to the experience that you’re having. It just so happens that it’s their job to be public luminaries. And other peoples’ jobs are more about putting this dress on and crushing that meeting, because mama’s looking good! You know what I mean?  It really is pretty much the same charge, whether in the public eye or not.” — Byron Lars, Fashion Designer & Barbie Collectibles

There’s more than meets the eye with designer and CEO of GROOM.

“I am currently writing an autobiographical self-help memoir, detailing all my different lives from Olympic hopeful; getting married on the 2014 Grammy Awards; being a singer songwriter with two albums; and now a celebrity fashion designer.” – Octavius Terry-Sims, Designer

Levy Lee Simon:  Odyssey of a Harlem Artist

Award-winning playwright, actor, and director Levy Lee Simon talks about his three pandemic-related projects in his ‘Arting Around’ interview with Sheryl Aronson.

“I would like for people to support live theater during these difficult times, and have a different kind of experience in addition to watching Netflix and Amazon Prime. It is very interesting watching plays on Zoom and seeing the actors in these little boxes. And very soon the audience is caught up in the drama of the play. The solo performance was my debut, and I promise … I hoped I didn’t bore the audience.  The response overwhelmingly has been that I didn’t.” – Levy Lee Simon

Book Reviews

Milk Run is a novel by Zac Baldwin that is thrilling, has fast-paced fiction with not one, but two female leads; and Passing Myself Down to the Grave: A Woman’s Rise from Darkness is a memoir by Sheryl Aronson — an exposing personal journey through breast cancer, surviving, and coming out on the other side.

Looking at Music Royalty Through the Lens of Michael Benabib

Michael Benabib is a celebrity photographer who has photographed the most iconic musical artists in the world, including Michael Jackson, The Fugees, Miles Davis, and more. Agenda highlights some of those rare, captured moments.

“I set up my lights, and I tried to take a picture that told a story by showing the board in the studio. Miles [Davis] was great, and was really interested in what I was doing. He asked about my technique, the camera I was using, and he wanted to see all the Polaroids. He was just totally involved. It was a great experience for me.” – Michael Benabib, Re-quoted from Thelastmiles.com

Beauty by Shahada Karim

It’s all about self-care with reviews of products by African American female business owners in the following reviews. “Danessa Myricks and the Beauty of Color,” “Gavin Luxe and the Sensual Sense,” and “EPARA: The Science of Beautiful Skin.”

Getting Back to Basics with Regards to Women’s Health

When it comes to health, Agenda has a discussion about women’s wellness with Melanie Wise of Wise Remedies in this candid conversation …

“When I train people for injury rehab or other reasons, I’m not looking for lifetime clients. I want to teach them what they need to know and get them out the door.  I want people to be in the driver’s seat of their own health. I don’t want to be their cheerleader, and they don’t need a cheerleader, what they need is good health.” — Melanie Wise, Wise Remedies

Fashion Whisperer Ty-Ron Mayes produces three timeless editorials

“Celebrating Renauld White, a Living Legend and Stylish Trailblazer”; “The Nomadian,” featuring model Jean-Mary Aubourg; and Diandra Forrest’s “Blonde Noir, the First Black Supermodel with Albinism.”  Included in Forrest’s editorial is an eye-opening and consciousness-raising interview.

“I think it’s been long overdue for us to be looked at as the unique beauties that we are. A lot of the times in the entertainment business, people with albinism have been portrayed as something supernatural or odd or freakish-looking, and I love that we are being seen in a different light.” — Diandra Forrest

Agenda pays tribute to those who’ve been the first to achieve or those who’ve changed history. Throughout the entire magazine, Agenda magazine spotlights Kamala Harris, Angela Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, Halle Barry, Sidney Poitier, Tuskegee Airmen, Toni Morrison; Donyale Luna, Harriet Quimby, Shirley Chisolm, Ruby Bridges, Lauryn Hill, Marguerite Higgins, Sandra Day O’Conner, Barack Obama, Kathryn Bigelow, The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed the “Six Triple Eight, Angela Davis, and honoring those anonymous activists who did their part to help bring forth equality!” A changemaker, simply put, is anyone who is taking creative action to solve a social problem—first, by actively tackling that social problem demonstrates they are motivated to act!

“There is no going back, there is only moving forward.” – Melinda May, S.H.I.E.L.D.

Agenda Collector’s Issue 2021: Changemakers is available in print and digital.

Featured on Talk Agenda Podcast are interviews with Black Design Collective president Kevan Hall, Byron Lars, and author of With Her Fist Raised Laura L. Lovett.

To Listen to Talk Agenda

Agenda Collector’s Issue 2021: “Changemakers” is sponsored by Bella Composers.

ABOUT AGENDA:

Agenda is the fashion and lifestyle magazine that has been telling the story behind the story since 2004. Agenda has a diverse readership, consisting mostly of women from various backgrounds, ranging from college age to 65 years old and beyond. Touted as ‘the intelligent read,’ Agenda is credited for being the first online magazine to stream video and documentary-style interviews. Since the very first Special Edition “Fall Is Fascinating,” in 2014, the magazine has consistently put out breathtaking coffee table keepsakes with content, including fashion, beauty, articles, photography, interviews, reviews, historical retrospectives, commentary, entertainment, and more. Agenda magazine is published by KL Publishing Group and is available worldwide!

Posted on

Chase Masterson Hosts the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival’s 6th Edition Live Events April 23-25, 2021.

Chase Masterson & Artemis Key Art

AWIAFF 2021 announces the host of their virtual film festival; the founders Melanie Wise and Zac Baldwin talk about what to expect for the 6th edition; and Artemis Women in Action Film Festival welcomes Ameri Law PC, Final Draft, Action Factory, and AXTionWear as sponsors.

As the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival (AWIAFF) gears up for their 6thedition, hosting for the second year is Chase Masterson (Star Trek: Deep Space 9, The Flash, ER). Masterson is an award-winning actress and a singer who has amassed a growing list of credits that also include founder and spokesperson of the Pop Culture Hero Coalition: a charity with the mission to teach real-life heroism over bullying, racism, misogyny, and more. Chase Masterson divides her time between her nonprofit and her busy career in entertainment.

“Women are still unsung heroes in so many capacities. The Artemis Women In Action Film Fest is the exception to that rule with a brilliant celebration of filmmakers who feature brave and exciting women onscreen, highlighting both individuals and this vital area of the entertainment industry as a whole. This type of entertainment would not exist as we know it without these intrepid souls, and it is an honor to host the AWAIFF, to hear their stories and to celebrate their spectacular work.” –Chase Masterson

About the Festival’s Activities

From binge watching to leisurely enjoying the content in the 6th edition, the $29.95 all-access pass holders will be able to watch approximately 26 hours of streaming content, available to view for 30 days, and includes narrative and documentaries in many genres both feature length and short.  Audience members can congregate with Artemis and festival participants for the scheduled live events between April 23-25, 2021. The Artemis Welcome is set for Friday evening, April 23rd. The All-Stars of Stunts panel, screenwriter and music roundtables are set for Saturday and Sunday (24-25th). Live events will conclude with competition awards presentation on Sunday evening, April 25th. Advance ticket sales begin on April 1, and content will be available approximately April 9, 2021, through May 10, 2021.

All edition details: Artemis Streaming Menu

“It’s been a pleasure for me to look at all the projects coming in from all over the world.  Through all different genres and styles is the running theme of strong women kickin’ ass in a variety of ways.  This year was especially hard to pare down hundreds of entries to 80 creators this year with 52 films, 12 screenplay finalists, and 16 music finalists.” Artemis Co-Founder Zac Baldwin

“I’m incredibly excited about this year’s live virtual events (happening Apr 23-25, 2021).  We are placing this year’s focus squarely upon the creators in 2021 Official Selections. Our hope is to offer our audience members an amazing opportunity to see these works and get to know the creators.  Additionally, we are offering our signature panel, ‘The All-Stars of Stunts,’ because the stunt community is the bedrock that brings female action and empowerment heroes to life; it has been a staple of the festival since its inception, and one that we could not forego!” – Artemis Executive Director & Founder, Melanie Wise

Artemis Women in Action Film Festival is pleased to announce the following sponsors:

• Ameri Law, PC to provide legal consultation to a winning feature film
• Final Draft, a Cast & Crew Company to provide winning screenwriters with their award-winning screenplay software
• Action Factory to provide custom swag to winning films in action categories
• AXTionWear to provide AW gear for winning films in action categories

“Ameri Law, PC is proud to announce we will be an official sponsor of the 6th edition of The Artemis Women in Action Film Festival. We are excited to meet this year’s contestants and patrons, and to be offering a free consultation prize to this year’s feature film winner.” – Owner & Founder Nina Ameri

“We have women that are capable, men, little people, big people, Black, white, Asian, Iranian, whatever you want to call it, we have it. It’s our responsibility to keep up to date with the growing [stunt] population. We can’t rely on what used to work for those guys in the past. We need to create our own for the future.” –AXTionWear founder and Stuntwoman Crystal Michelle, Agenda Collector’s Issue 2019: “Artemis Women Kick Ass!”

About the Sponsors:

AMERI LAW, PC

Ameri Law, PC is a hands-on law firm dedicated to helping those navigate the entertainment industry and achieve all creative and business goals through a holistic, cost-effective approach. With extensive experience from matters involving talent representation, production legal, film finance to intellectual property. Ameri Law, PC protects interests by handling legal needs in a conscientious and cost-effective manner by demystifying legalese and red tape, leaving creators free to focus on what’s important through providing strategic guidance on all things entertainment, intellectual property, and business. With significant experience in several practice areas, Ameri Law, PC is positioned to provide clients with a holistic approach to legal issues while fiercely protecting legal interests without compromising business goals. Constantly adapting to the rapidly changing entertainment industry, Ameri Law, PC takes into account short and long-term goals to provide the best legal guidance. Whether the niche is in the traditional media universe of films and television or the new media world of digital content – Ameri Law, PC has it covered.

Visit Ameri Laws, PC to learn more.

FINAL DRAFT, A CAST & CREW COMPANY

Final Draft, A Cast & Crew Company has published Final Draft® software—the number one screenwriting application in the world—for 30 years. Final Draft automatically paginates and formats your script to industry standards, allowing writers to focus on what they do best, writing scripts. Used by such industry giants as J.J. Abrams, James Cameron, and Aaron Sorkin, Final Draft software is the professional’s choice and the entertainment industry standard. In addition to its flagship software product, Final Draft offers the annual Big Break® Contest, a screenwriting competition that launches careers and awards over $100,000 in cash and prizes. Final Draft also offers Final Draft Mobile for iPhone and iPad, making creativity truly portable.

To learn more about Final Draft and its products and services, visit Final Draft.

ACTION FACTORY

Action Factory is a one-stop action resource providing equipment sales, rentals, and services to the Entertainment Industry. Born out of necessity, Action Factory was created to fulfill a need for better technologically designed products for stunt professionals by stunt professionals. Using exact sciences across multiple platforms, coupled with real life experience, the design process ensures that AF delivers products that will be of great benefit and improvement to professional stuntmen and women.

Visit: Action Factory

AXTIONWEAR

Stunt professionals know all too well just how hard it can be to find truly reliable safety pads. That’s why AXTionWear has developed a line of state-of-the-art stunt pads designed with the unique needs of female stunt performers in mind. Created specifically for women’s bodies — and also offering men’s designs — AXTionWear’s safety pads enable the wearer to take on even the most complex stunts with confidence: Visit AxtionWear

“When we put a full body suit together for you, we give you a “barcode” that tells us exactly how your body is shaped. Next time you need a suit, we have your exact measurements and dimensions on file. Our suits are currently available online and will soon be featured at the specialty safety store AMSPEC, Inc., Southwest Costume Rentals, and more.” – Crystal Michelle, AXTionWear’s Founder & Award-Winner Stuntwoman

About Chase Masterson:

Chase Masterson’s credits include Star Trek: Deep Space 9, Doctor Who Big Finish, VIENNA, and The Flash. She hosted Sci-Fi Entertainment opposite Bruce Campbell in Terminal Invasion for SyFy, played opposite Jerry O’Connell in Sliders, and co-hosted NBC Sunday Night at the Movies with Ryan Seacrest and the renowned STARMUS Gala in Zurich. Her guest-star credits include the Emmy-winning episode of ER and Presidio Med, and a recurring role on General Hospital. Masterson’s feature film lead roles include a mysterious jazz singer in eOne’s acclaimed sci-fi noir, Yesterday Was a Lie and the title role in Je Suis Auto. Chase is also singer with several CDs, including Thrill of the Chase, Ad Astra, Jazz Cocktail, and Rendezvous. In 2013, she founded the Pop Culture Hero Coalition, the first nonprofit organization to teach real-life heroism over bullying, racism, misogyny, LGBTQI-bullying, and cyberbullying; using stories from pop culture TV, comics, and film. The Coalition works in schools, pop culture cons, and children’s hospitals.

For more information on Chase Masterson and the Pop Culture Hero Coalition, please visit Chase Masterson Twitter and PopCultureHero.org

About Artemis Women In Action Film Festival:

Melanie Wise and Zac Baldwin, two filmmakers with a longtime love of female-driven action films, together founded the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival. Wise and Baldwin have produced shorts and features, focusing on female action projects. They saw that audiences around the world loved the genre despite the fact that studios (for many years) claimed female action films were box office poison. In 2014, the idea of Artemis was born with the intent to create a space where these types of films could play for audiences with an unsatisfied hunger of female-driven action films.

And for the 6th Edition, Artemis is proud to include for the second year women-powered music, sponsored by Bella Composers: Visit AWIAFF

Posted on

Artemis Women In Action Film Festival Honors “The Artist” for their Sixth Edition, April 22nd-25th, 2021

Announcing the Sixth Edition’s Official Selections with a solid focus on the artist for the 2021 film festival. The edition will be screened virtually; and joining sponsors AGENDA Magazine and Bella composers is Presenting Sponsor Wise Remedies and Prize Sponsor.

The excitement is brewing as filmmakers and musicians prepare to see their works stream live virtually for the sixth edition of the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival (AWIAFF).  Every edition, the momentum builds, and despite 2020 events, Artemis approaches the finish line with some of the strongest talent on the independent playing field.  Artemis is a festival that has been associated with industry luminaries such as actors Tom Cruise, Melissa McCarthy, actor/producer/festival sponsor Paul Feig, director Kimberly Pierce, and many in the stunt/action design community. Artemis will be offering an exciting and interactive celebration.  Festival-goers will enjoy well-scripted storylines with powerful characters in narrative features, documentaries, shorts, and more.  AWIAFF offers affordable, all-access tickets that include all events, including screenings, panel discussions, Q and A’s, award presentations, and networking opportunities, available from the comfort of your home (or viewing party) to imbibe and experience all of the excitement for which this festival is known.

Melanie Wise, Founder/Director of AWIAFF states,

“We’ve always done live events, brick and mortar. Observing 2020, what really stood out to the Artemis team was the need for this edition to focus on celebrating the talent of our filmmakers, musician/composers, and screenwriters.” – Quoted from Agenda, “Artemis Women In Action Film Festival Goes Virtual and More for 2021”

Melanie Wise continues,

“We are going to securely stream all of the official selections. We won’t be selling individual tickets, but rather, we will be selling very reasonably priced all-access passes. We will have some interactive panels and other cyber events, and do an online greeting, so everyone can get together in cyber space and toast one another. That will be open to all the official selections and any of the Artemis fans and supporters who would like to participate. Artemis has built its own streaming platform, [as well as] partnering on a platform or two.  Last year, festivals came to the table doing their virtual events, making it a highly adaptable, highly designable way of doing a festival.”

Melanie Wise, Dir. of AWIAFF

This Sixth Edition continues with the tradition of strong women characters, announcing its official selections for narrative features, documentaries, shorts, screenplays, songs and compositions with a landscape of artistic work that continues in the form of independent and unconstrained creativity.  Past festivals have brought incredible talent to the table with the diversity of topics and indomitable strength of characters and physicality being consistently represented in this year’s official selections. The 2021 edition focuses on the “creatives,” making this year’s festival all about the talent!

Melanie Wise talks about this year’s entries.

“As with every year, we always get an extraordinary variety, in terms of narrative, documentary, feature, shorts, but also we have an amazing range, from comedy action to drama. There’s just absolutely thigh-slapping stuff to serious stuff to some really cool pieces of history. We have a film about the old USO tours, and the women who’ve traveled overseas for US Troops—really great pieces of history. This is the part of the festival that always makes me very excited, very pleased, and very proud, because we are showing pieces of history that really shouldn’t be unknown. We also will have amazing films that challenge social issues. Amazing stories of people positively reshaping perceptions of self-value, stepping outside comfort zones to redefine the human condition in ways that do leave “the place” more beautiful.  Wise adds, “We work really hard to come to the table and offer a program where we’re not pushing agendas, except that of showcasing positive, powerful women… we always have. And this year is one where it is completely about the talent because it’s virtual. We will be stripping some aspects of the festival, and we are going to work very hard to make every creator shine.”

Bella Composer’s Kaylene Peoples talks about the music part of the festival. “Women Powered Music” is about female intention and inclusion. Women have been composing and going unrecognized or ignored forever, really before the last century. And even then when you consider the number of studio films that have been produced, won Oscars, how many of those movies hired a female score writer. I applaud those women who broke through and actually have that career. There are female orchestrators, even some conductors, but we are definitely in the minority.” Peoples goes on to say, “The Fifth Edition in 2019, was astronomical and even more eye-opening.  For our inaugural music competition, there was an overwhelming response with composers from all over the United States, Europe, South America, and Asia, who not only had scores in studio films, but symphonies performed and recorded with world class orchestras in many styles, including neo-classical, jazz, and more. What made this moment even more eye opening was the women that traveled to the festival last edition from Australia, United Kingdom, Canada, and from all across America just for the chance to be recognized. And wow, they are the most phenomenally talented composers and musical artists I had the honor to meet.  Peoples Concludes, “This music competition is so needed. The world is filled with incredibly talented women composers and it’s about time we paid attention. If you are a female composer, please consider submitting your scores. It’s time for the world to know you exist!”

Bella Composer – AWIAFF Sponsor of Women Powered Music

Here are the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival’s Sixth Edition Official Selections:

FEATURES  

A Deadly Place  

All Earthly Constraints  

Beyond Driven  

Christmas in Baghdad  

Firewoman  

Intercessors  

The Broker 

The Meeting  

Uprooted  

Where We Disappear   

SHORTS  

10 Minutes For A Pound  

A Blossom in the Night  

A Girl from Parsian  

A Woman’s Touch  

Ally 3000  

America 

Bagheera  

Barbell Snatch  

Blessing  

Boy Eats Girl

EmBlem  

Fast and Faster  

Fayettenam  

Fellowship  

Glass Darkly  

Gozde The Fighter  

Have It All  

Hunted  

If I Rise  

Inner Self 

Kara the Invincible  

Life, Boat, Home  

Moment  

Naretoi  

Now You See Us  

One Moment(s)  

Pure  

Resurfacing  

Rose & Raven  

RU  

Rueful Warrior  

SADAF  

Scenic Fights Presents: My Fight Tresa Man  

Sensei Fran Kicks Ass  

Seven: The Short Film Combating Domestic Violence  

She Who Wasn’t Tamed 

The Fastest Woman of All Time  

The Suicide of Lillian Sellers  

Therese  

Twin Turbo  

Violin Scratches  

Warriors of Education  

What Didn’t Kill Me  

You Too

SCREENPLAYS

Bells on Wheels by Thomas Heinonen

Between the Flames by Tishia Malone

Feather by Johanna Juntunen

Girl Hunters by John Saunders

Heard by Maureen Sasscer

Private Thompson’s Secret War by Gina DeAngelis

Ripley of Valor by Thoren Syndergaard

Roses and Rattlesnakes by Colin Simpson

The Hardest Hit by Sam Jeurgens

The Reckoning by Neil Marshall

Then and There, Here and Where by Esabella Strickland

Undercard by Dylan Kilgour

Warpaint by Helen Taylor

Highlights – Official Selections

SONG FINALISTS

“Alleluia” | Erin Beute

“Alone with Bees” | Connie Lansberg

“Body Communion” | Toni Short

“Fade” | Fay Gauthier

“Fear, I Got Nothing for You” | Toni Short

“Make It Better” | Deborah Hurwitz

“My Amazing Grace” | Debra Gussin

“No Fight” | Elizmi Haze

“What Do You Say” | Floyd Music

COMPOSITION/SCORE FINALISTS

“40 Years One Night” | Giya Rushidat

“Boy Eats Girl” | Christy Carew

“Cowboy Boots” | Nikki Morgan

“Farewell” | Jaime Pangan

“Ganna Sorbat” | Ganna Sorbat

“In Trouble” | Monica Hodnett, Callie Day

“Molecules” | Maria Rago

“Piano Fantasy” | Deborah Offenhauser

“Spirit Vision” | Margaret Brandman

“Streetlight Dancers” | Kasey Crawford

“You know, I get the view from the moon every year. A lot of people show up, and they just watch a few things or they have a film in the festival. But when you get to see a broad field of content, and when you get to see the gravity of the stuff that’s presented, that’s where I think it gets very interesting. The most common compliment we get at the festival where people literally walk up to me is “I’m so inspired.” I think that’s my favorite compliment of the festival, because I think the whole point of it is to inspire people. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a woman, a man, or a dog. We all need to be able to look out through life with a lighter lens.” – Melanie Wise, Founder/Director (Quoted from Agenda, “Artemis Women In Action Film Festival Goes Virtual and More for 2021”)

The Artemis Women In Action Film Festival is happy to announce the following sponsors: Wise Remedies, Agenda Magazine, Bella Composers, Keslow Camera, and others.

ABOUT THE SPONSORS

WISE REMEDIES: 

Premium quality, handcrafted herbal remedies now available online. Committed to creating unadulterated, effective products, boosting natural defenses and addressing foundational issues. All plant materials are either certified organic or custom wild crafted, never altered with heat, radiation or freezing temperatures; liquid extracts are made with Non-GMO alcohol, processed to remove gluten, using dried herbs and distillation, spanning six weeks to six months. All teas and powdered formulations are excipient-free (filler free). For two decades, Wise Remedies has taken great pride in creating products that are the purest and most powerful they can offer!

Visit the Wise Remedies website to see their complete catalog of products.

AGENDA Magazine:

The fashion and lifestyle magazine that has been telling the story behind the story since 2004 is in its third year as a lead sponsor for the Artemis Women In Action Film Festival. A print and online magazine, Agenda has a diverse readership, consisting mostly of women from various backgrounds, ranging from college age to 65 years old and beyond.  Touted as “the intelligent read,” Agenda is credited for being the first online magazine to stream video and documentary-style interviews.  In print since 2014, the magazine has consistently put out breathtaking coffee table keepsakes with content including fashion, beauty, photography, interviews, entertainment, and more.  For AWIAFF Fifth Edition, Agenda Collector’s Issue titled “Artemis Women Kick Ass!” featured honorees Jeannie Epper, Daniela Ruah, and Dot-Marie Jones on the cover and chronicled that year’s festival’s events.  Agenda magazine is available in print worldwide!

Visit Agendamag.com for details.

BELLA COMPOSERS:

Created by Kaylene Peoples, an award-winner singer/instrumentalist, composer/arranger, and conductor, Bella Composers offers women new opportunities, self-expression, empowerment, and employment in the world of classical, neoclassical, and other traditional musical genres by showcasing their compositions through live performance, film, new media, and more. The Bella Composers Women Powered Music Competition is the first of its kind, representing women composers from across the globe.  Participating for a second term as the curator of the music portion of Artemis, Bella Composers continues its mission for inclusion by celebrating the talents of this underserved demographic.

Visit Bella Composers to learn more.

KESLOW CAMERA: Keslow Camera houses the Industry’s finest technicians and continues to design and inspire unique high-quality accessories that are unmatched by its peers. This pioneering atmosphere creates an energetic and positive employee environment, fostering unparalleled customer service and experience, providing the best service and ensures unparalleled product quality in the Industry: https://www.keslowcamera.com/

ABOUT Artemis Women In Action Film Festival:

Artemis Women In Action Film Festival was founded by Melanie Wise and Zac Baldwin, two filmmakers with a long time love of female-driven action films. Wise and Baldwin have produced shorts and features, focusing on female action projects. They saw that the genre was loved by audiences around the world, despite the fact that studios for many years claimed female action films were box office poison. In 2014, the idea of Artemis was born with the intent to create a space where these types of films could play for audiences with an unsatisfied hunger of female-driven action films. And for the Sixth Edition, Artemis is proud to include for the second year women-powered music: AWIAFF 6th Editon, Bella Composers

Posted on

Carol Alt Turns Sixty & Turns Heads on the Cover of AGENDA Magazine!

Carol Alt on AGENDA Issue 14 Covers

Agenda magazine announces “Comfy Cozy,” the Winter 2021, Issue #14 with supermodel/actress Carol Alt on the cover.

This issue celebrates Alt’s milestone birthday as she arrives at 60 years old. Being that the Agenda reader is a diverse group of people, and catering to a mostly female demographic with varying age-ranges (from 25-65 and beyond), this issue speaks to ageism and demonstrates that age is really just a number.

Ty-Ron Mayes, the fashion editor and wardrobe stylist for Agenda’s featured editorial, is responsible for orchestrating many of Alt’s covers in her modeling career.  And now as the Fashion Whisperer, Mayes has curated a beautiful, “ageless” fashion editorial “The Carol Alt Factor: Sensational at Sixty,” featuring looks by Versace as one of the many designers featured in the spread.  The Fashion Whisperer Podcast, Episode 3 is an engaging interview led by Ty-Ron Mayes as he speaks candidly with Carol Alt about her career, her loves, and how she gives back.  They also delve into the changing world of modeling and social media. To listen to the podcast, visit: https://www.agendamag.com/fashion-whisperer-carol-alt-factor/

Kaylene Peoples Agenda Editor-in-ChiefAgenda Editor-in-Chief’s Kaylene Peoples titled the issue “Comfy Cozy,” based on the current pandemic and stay-at-home orders.  Issue 14 is filled with pajama-inspired runway, and winter-appropriate designs with designers Major Minor, NEONYT, and Rachel Mills. Peoples’s Fashion Talk column sets the tone for the entire issue with her historical retrospective: “Pyjama to Pajamas: The History of Sleepwear.”

“Since most people I know are on lockdown, I am sure that I am not the only house-bound person existing in her loungewear.  It only seemed fitting to title this issue “Comfy Cozy,” and create the aesthetic to match its theme.” – Kaylene Peoples, Agenda Editor-in-Chief

Even Black Design Collective designer Okera Banks furthers the point with OTG Essentials’ convertible yet comfortable garments.” Beauty by Shahada Karim has the following articles: “Cold Weather Care,” The pandemic Files, Maskne,” and “Beauty and the Pandemic: Zoom-Ready!”  Karim also interviews Susannah Sprague-Lerma in “The ‘Joyfull’ Way to Go Vegan.”

Agenda has always had great content, and during COVID 19, finding topics that will resonate during these challenging times has been the number one goal.  Within these 137 pages are articles, interviews, and reviews about overcoming challenges, helping people, lifting spirits, and more.  Sheryl Aronson (Arting Around) interviews (Ovation Award-winner) choreographer Janet Roston about her wildly trending video (over 2.2 million views and growing), You Can’t Stop the Beat – Hairspray Finale Spectacular.  Roston’s video was created to raise money for The Actor’s Fund – COVID19; and actor J.D. Lewis talks about The Actors Lab forging ahead with the use of Zoom.

AGENDA-ISSUE-WINTER-2021-#14-Comfy-Cozy-Masthead

Melanie Wise (Wise Remedies) interviews Dr. William Gibbs, who has cured those people suffering from chronic pain. Nichole Galicia (Defiance, Django Unchained) is interviewed by Ty-Ron Mayes about her career and her charity, The Orchid Foundation; Nichole has been changing the lives of young ladies by teaching them valuable life skills. Zac Baldwin reviews New York Times Bestseller Home by Harlen Coben; and the nonfiction novel about one man’s journey on the quest for spiritual understanding, The Solo Traveler by George Harris. Baldwin reviews classic films made into book series in his article “Binge-Reading:  When Binge-Watching Is Not Enough.”  Other features include an interview with podcaster Hammond Chamberlain of Beyond the Playlist and the Universal Studios film News of the World, starring Tom hanks.

Ash Gupta’s Face of the Season puts a spotlight on Russian-born model Elizabeth Rush. Runway Competitions include L’Oreal Professionnel “Style & Color Trophy” in collaboration with Rinda Salmun; and ESNE Designer Showcase.  In closing, Fashion Archives, features classic designs from the not-too-distant past (Olympus Fashion Week 2007 in New York).

To learn more about the Agenda Winter 2021 issue 14, “Comfy Cozy,” visit www.agendamag.com/product/agenda-winter-2021-issue-14-comfy-cozy/

Agenda is published by KL Publishing Group.

Proudly powered by WordPress