Category Archives: Art
Kristen V. Carter – Screenwriter, Television Producer & Educator
Kristen V. Carter is a screenwriter, television producer, and educator from Newark, New Jersey. She has produced for a variety of cable’s top programs including MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew, OWN’s My Mom is Obsessed, and Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. In addition, Kristen has served as a speech writer for Viacom executives, including BET’s CEO Debra Lee.
Kristen has a deep-rooted passion for entrepreneurship and content creation. In 2007, she founded JazziDreamer Entertainment LLC, a multimedia company specializing in writing, production, and consultation services. Through the company, she wrote, directed, and launched the six-episode web series Sellout, a story of an Ivy League graduate’s transition back to the inner-city after his mother’s death. The series, a first for JazziDreamer Entertainment LLC, garnered over 4,000 views during its 6-episode run. Since that time, Kristen has written three feature length screenplays and continues to develop scripted and non-scripted projects for tv, web, and film.
Kristen has won many awards for her professional and social achievements, including the Goldman Sachs Institute for Entrepreneurial Thinking National First Place Prize, the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship Award for Most Civic Minded Business, and the New York Women in Communications Scholarship. Most recently, Kristen took part in the 2011 Cosby Screenwriting Fellowship.
Whether it’s through screen or stage, her ultimate goal is to inspire the world through edutainment!
Website: www.kristenvcarter.com
Q & A with Kristen V. Carter:
BS: What inspired you to create JazziDreamerEntertainment LLC? How would you describe its success thus far?
Kristen V. Carter: JazziDreamer Entertainment LLC is a media consultation and production company that I created in 2007, due to the number of independent clients I was gaining outside of my full time position. At the time I created the company, I was a show writer for a cable entertainment news show (BET’s The Black Carpet) and was being approached to write scripted tv pilots, treatments, episodic breakdowns, and press kits on the side. I wanted to start building a brand so the move to create a company was natural for me.
JazziDreamer Entertainment LLC has evolved in just the 5.5 years that it’s been established. Initially, I did a lot of media consulting and managed two recording artists – R&B singer Lance Drummonds and Lyricist/Photographer Blue – but as my writing grew, I realized I needed to solely focus on getting my productions off the ground.
BS: You are quite an accomplished screenwriter, television producer, and educator. Do you enjoy one more than the others?
Kristen V. Carter: I believe all three fields go hand in hand. I am very passionate about storytelling and connecting with people so that I can be a vessel to tell their stories in order to inspire others. Screenwriting is about putting a story on paper; producing is about finding out a person’s story and bringing it to life; education is about teaching those around you while sharing your experience and perspective. I am drawn to education because I believe our children need to know that they can achieve their dreams and see people in their community who are doing what they’d like to do.
BS: Describe some of your most important career accomplishments.
Kristen V. Carter: No one accomplishment is more ‘important’ than the other because they are all stepping stones but a few stand out to me; being accepted to the Cosby Screenwriting Fellowship, being selected for a scholarship by New York Women in Communications, traveling the country as a story producer for an OWN/Discovery Health production, and directing my first short film this past month.
BS: At what age did you begin to have an interest in writing? What initiated your passion for writing?
Kristen V. Carter: I’ve kept journals and written poems, songs, and short stories all my life so I can’t even recall when I noticed that I loved writing. I’m curious to know what my mother or grandparents would say in regards to when they first noticed. I began taking my writing more seriously during my junior year of high school, when I signed up for an Expository Writing Course. I realized at that time that I absolutely loved writing and wanted to write a feature film one day.
BS: What are your short-term/long-term goals?
Kristen V. Carter: I am currently editing my first short film entitled First Date, a drama about a woman’s emotional encounter with a ‘familiar stranger.’ My current goal is to complete post-production on the film and begin submitting to film festivals. I also want to complete the next draft of my feature film, and create a production collective which is simply a group of friends dedicated to assisting each other with getting their independent projects completed.
My long-term goals include creating a traveling curriculum where I visit various schools in the country to present interactive workshops on entrepreneurship and activating your goals. I am also actively seeking investors for my production work, so that I can launch a feature film project.
BS: Describe a time when you were faced with a challenging situation and how you handled it.
Kristen V. Carter: In 2009, the recession hit the production world pretty hard and most of the friends and colleagues I knew were sitting at home. That was a huge time of reevaluation for me because that was the very first time I had been faced with real doubt, insecurity and anxiety about my craft. I wasn’t inspired to write at all, and I questioned if I was good enough for my dream several times…finally, it dawned on me that I wasn’t going to get anywhere pouting in my living room. Initially, I was applying to all Writer positions and soon realized that when things shift, you also have to shift. I began applying for non-Production roles everywhere and wound up doing contract work for an international conference. As soon as I stepped outside of the box of ‘Why am I not getting what I want?,’ I started receiving what I wanted. Soon after, I received my first Writer/Associate Producer opportunity, which gave me access to becoming the writer and producer I am today.
BS: What motivates you? How do you motivate others?
Kristen V. Carter: Remembering how much my mom worked and sacrificed in order for me to enroll in every activity I was interested in inspires me. When I complain about how hard I’m working, I remember that she worked three jobs while finishing school. That shuts me up right there…
My family motivates me. My community motivates me. I’ve had nothing but support as I continue to climb and I am so grateful for that.
How do I motivate others? I don’t know if you can know how you ‘motivate others.’ My gut response is just - by being myself and sharing my truth. I believe it’s important to tell the entire story, not just the success but the stumbles to success. And even as I write this, there is still so much further to go so I am thankful to have my community on this journey with me.
BS: What are the best and worst aspects of your job?
Kristen V. Carter: The best aspect of my job is that it never feels like a job. I enjoy directing cast and crew, and laughing on set. It’s just fun. The worst aspect of my job is just the long hours. It’s something you get used to though so it comes with the territory.
BS: How would you describe your style of writing and directing? How do you continue to develop your skills?
Kristen V. Carter: I’m still developing my style of writing and directing, as I consider myself a baby in this game. I love to comment on society with humor. If you can get an audience laughing while sticking some truth in their mouths, I think you’re on to something so I am constantly working on that.
I develop my skills by watching and reading great screenwriters and directors. Learning by observing– (and screwing up and getting back up!) - is the best way to develop skill.
BS: Have you ever been in a Writer’s Group for learning and/or support? Have mentors played a part in your success?
Kristen V. Carter: In 2011, I was accepted into the Cosby Screenwriting Fellowship, a 16 week program for emerging writers in film and scripted television. My class dynamic was similar to a writer’s group where we would turn in material every week and critique each other’s work. Now that the program has passed, my group still meets every other Tuesday to submit all kinds of material – web content, short film, feature, and tv spec scripts. Writers’ groups are extremely important in order to receive honest feedback from fellow writers who are dedicated to the craft and take writing seriously.
It takes a village to raise a child, and I am a firm believer in that. I have many mentors who have paved the way and given me invaluable advice through the years. Mentors are huge is this business because it’s imperative to have someone who can vouch for your work ethic and talent.
Should Zoe Saldana Star in Nina Simone Biopic? The Dark vs. Light Skin Debate Continues
Zoe Saldana-Nina Simone
A movie about the life of African American singer-songwriter Nina Simone is coming under fire in recent weeks. Producers for the forthcoming biopic Nina, announced this week that Zoe Saldana would play the title role. Zoe Saldana, 34, got the role after Mary J. Blige, who’s been attached to the film for years, announced that she was no longer involved in the project. The movie is based on Nina’s 1992 autobiography I Put a Spell on You.
Nina Simone is known as the “High Priestess of Soul”. She is a legend in the world of music and was actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement on the 1960s. She was born in 1933 in North Carolina. Her music spanned decades and has been sampled and re-made by many of today’s artists. She did not experience an enormous amount of commercial success but her life and music have her holding an iconic status among many. Simone died in France in 2003.
After news broke that Saldana was taking on the role, petitions began to circulate online. Petitioners are accusing producers of everything from trying to “whitewash” the film by casting an attractive lighter complexioned woman to play Simone, to outright racism. This is not a new argument. The media has always shown a preference for casting lighter actresses, even when playing human beings who we know were darker. Recently, the movie Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter cast a light complexioned actress to play the famous slave Harriet Tubman.
Many have made the point that there are several brilliant actresses who would fit the aesthetic of Nina Simone in a better way. Talented dark complexioned women have notoriously had a difficult time in Hollywood, despite the limited gains they have made over the years. By mostly casting light complexioned women in lead roles, the entertainment industry has had influence over the standards of beauty in the African American community. The Black community could use better representation of the spectrum and diversity within.
On the other side of the argument, many say, who are we to say that Zoe Saldana is not Black enough to play a Black lead role? Saldana is an Afro-Latina. She acknowledges her Latin blood but also her African ancestry is apparent. She is a Black woman. Her skin color and Latin heritage do not diminish that. She is a talented actress and there could be many reasons she was chosen for the role that may not have to do with race.
Both sides of the argument make legitimate points. This one thing is sure; this conversation will happen again until the media become more sensitive to the diversity in the Black community and represent that diversity on screen. Zoe is a beautiful actress and captivating onscreen. On the surface, she does seem miscast for the role, but let’s be fair to her as an artist and individual. Let’s let her talent speak for itself.
Written by: Kika Ramsay
Behind The Scenes With Gustavius Smith
Gustavius Smith
Gustavius Smith is an award-winning writer and director from Nassau, Bahamas. With interests in design, writing and acting he studied theater at Florida A&M University and later worked in Nassau as a staff reporter for The Tribune newspaper. His articles have been published by PolicyMic and NYIHA Media. In 2002, Smith’s passion for storytelling led him to New York City, where he currently resides.
Smith’s eye for socially driven stories enables him to create films that are empowering, provocative and entertaining. He has penned four feature-length screenplays, including Heading North (in development); Built for Load (Winner of the 2007 Ansbacher Filmmakers Residency Award at the Bahamas International Film Festival); Goodbye Cowboy and Foreigner.
Smith also wrote, produced, and directed 2 short films, Crude (2005) and Contact Zone (2010). Crude was officially selected to the Bahamas International Film Festival and the New York Short Film Festival. Contact Zone has won several awards and has screened at the 2nd Annual PortlandMaine Film Festival (October 2011); the 2nd Annual Urban Suburban Film Festival (June 2011), the 13th Annual San Francisco Black Film Festival (June 2011), the 44th Annual World-Fest Houston International Film Festival (April 2011); the 14th Annual Magnolia Independent Film Festival (February 2011); the 1st Annual Blue Sky Film Festival (February 2011); the 7th Annual Bahamas International Film Festival (December 2010); the 6th Annual Montréal International Black Film Festival (October 2010); and the 1st Annual Williamsburg International Film Festival (September 2010).
Recently, Smith directed a music video for singer/songwriter Esnavi for her hit song Unexpected Love. The video is currently on rotation on VH1 Soul, Centric TV (Top Countdown and Soul Sessions), and Music Choice Video On Demand. The single has been on the TOP 40 Urban Adult Contemporary Chart for several weeks, and is currently playing in over 30 major radio stations across the country.
Smith is a member of the Independent Film Project and Talk Cinema.
Q&A with Gustavius Smith
BS: Where did your passion for writing, acting and directing initiate? How do you incorporate your Caribbean culture into your work?
Gustavius Smith: Writing, acting, and directing sort of found me. I was studying architecture when a Theater professor sold his dramatic writing class to me in college. He cast me in his play and the rest is history. In the theater I could use all my talents: design, writing, and addressing social issues. It was kind of a no-brainer. I had to have the consciousness about what mattered to me before that but I guess that was ingrained from an early age.
BS: What important issues or subjects do your films and/or articles address?
Gustavius Smith: As a Bahamian and a Caribbean man myself, my work and voice are based on Caribbean issues, but I do get involved in American politics from time to time. Specifically my writing deals with migration, immigration and crime in the Bahamas, Haiti and the US.
BS: How did you begin directing films? How would you describe your experience in that industry thus far?
Gustavius Smith: I learned how to direct plays in college, but I taught myself screenwriting and filmmaking. I bought the same books filmmakers in film schools were reading and immersed myself in the craft. I wrote my first screenplay and directed my first short in 2005 – that was my filmmaking thesis if you will. That first short was screened in two film festivals and the screenplay I won the Ansbacher Filmmaker Residency award – for a cool $10,000 bucks.
BS: How would you describe your career progression? What are some of your long or short-term career goals?
Gustavius Smith: I want to work more. I would have liked to have directed two feature length films by now. That’s not the case. Instead I have directed two shorts, one of them, Contact Zone, has won seven or eight awards. I have also written three feature length screenplays, which I have been told are remarkable, and I have directed a music video. I think I’m doing okay for someone who taught himself filmmaking. I want more but I am also fulfilled: it’s weird that way. I think because it’s art, at the end of the day you are just happy to be doing it because it fuels and soothes your soul.
BS: How would you describe your writing style?
Gustavius Smith: Social realism. I write about real people in plausible circumstances, and choose compelling topics. I was a reporter for two years after college and that experience influences my work.
BS: What projects are you most proud of and why? What motivates you?
Gustavius Smith: I’m really proud of all of my work. If I had to pick one right now it’s the screenplay for Heading North. The story is about a young woman who leaves Haiti to reunite with her mom in Florida but the boat she is on is chartered for a different course.
Over the course of my career in film I have chosen quality over quantity. I’m an independent writer/director, which means that I write what I direct, and am really motivated to tell stories. And I want to tell them well, be true to the characters in pages and on the screen.
BS: Describe a difficult situation that you had to overcome. How do you define success?
Gustavius Smith: When you are an independent filmmaker, working on themes that are not necessarily mainstream- then getting your ideas from page to screen is a herculean challenge. To get it into wide distribution in theaters is like moving a mountain.
BS: How would you describe your experience directing the Unexpected Love music video for singer/songwriter Esnavi?
Gustavius Smith: Directing that video was a very rewarding experience. It was Esnavi’s first music video and the first one I had directed. Esnavi made my job easy because she is first and foremost a professional, and a natural in front of the camera; she is really a true entertainer and the spotlight brings out the best in her. I think we did a fantastic job. The video aired on Vh1, BET and Centric and now it’s on ITUNES.
BS: Has being raised and working in Nassau, Bahamas affected your work ethic or mindset?
Gustavius Smith: Big time! Island life is so compelling to me. The Bahamas has a rich history with so many fascinating stories ripe for the telling. Just look at the success of Pirates of the Caribbean. But I think that it is our day-to-day lives, the follies and struggles, that makes for the best cinema.
BS: How does it feel to be an award-winning writer and director?
Gustavius Smith: It feels great. I have had to make sacrifices to take this path, but I’ve got to do what my heart tells me. I have people who believe in me and encourage me to keep working and I’m very grateful for that. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Gabby Douglas Wins The All-Around Title
Gabby Douglas
Gabby Douglas’ gold medal winning routine will forever be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Olympic history. It is hard to take your eyes off of the sixteen year old’s exciting routine as she executes with such skill. When she is competing, her energy is electric. When she is being interviewed, her glow, her beautiful smile, love of her family, her sport and her faith together make an extraordinary young lady. She’s one of the few African-American gymnasts ever to compete in the Olympic Games and the first black woman to take the all-around individual title. She has been on the covers of Time and Sports Illustrated and she is still a teenager. While many her age are enjoying a carefree summer before they return to high school, she is making history. Her story is inspirational to say the least.
Along with the fanfare and the adulation, Gabby has to deal with the other side of being in the public eye. She has had to endure discussions about her distant relationship with her dad, which is not an uncommon thing for young Black people to deal with except the rest of us who can relate get to deal with it privately. She has not been in contact with him, and has blamed him for the family’s financial problems. She has also endured criticism over her hair. Twitter exploded with people making negative comments about her gel-slicked ponytail. The social media critics have certainly distracted attention from Douglas’ triumph, but they will never be able to take the accomplishment from her. Despite her critics, she walks away the victor and her hard work will pay off in more ways than one. Experts have said that she is set to make between 5 and 10 million dollars in endorsements after her performance at the 2012 London games.
Written by: Kika Ramsay
Greg Banks… “not your average artist”
GREG BANKS
A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Gregory Banks is not your average artist. In a time where mediocrity has become the norm in an ever-changing music industry, only a few singers shine as true artists. He has opened up for Multi-Platinum artist Lil Wayne, Trey Songz, Mike Jones, and Jazzy Jeff; won a B.E.T College Tour Competition; has been featured on many radio stations and local television shows; and was a finalist in Andre Harrell’s Superstar Soul Search Competition. With these being only some of his variant achievements, Greg Banks continually puts his best foot fonNard to strive in this industry.
His lyrics having an abysmal connotation with a sound that is hard to define; his music has become a branch of the 90’s groove, and he is recognized as a prolific crooner of the now. Equipped with one of the most distinctive styles in the music business; Mr. Banks is bent on taking urban music fonNard. With his soothing tunes, genteel melodies, and charismatic charm one cannot help but to concede to the strong gravitational pull to his music.
In 2007, Greg Banks career launched with the partnership of Bay area’s artist G-Eazy and the creating of their hit single “Candy Girl”. Having over 425,000 plays on MySpace, the two created a music video which garnished over 80,000 views on YouTube and nominated for an mtvU Woody-Award.
In 2009, Greg Banks released his independent debut; The Time is Now, which erupted his buzz as the new R&B sensation. Currently unsigned, Greg Banks has over 3,600 fans on MySpace with over 80,000 song plays, and over 10,000 fans on Facebook. In addition, Greg Banks has also written 3 songs on songstress Kourtney Heart’s 9 track album “Eye Dee Kay”. Heart, a newcomer to the industry, was recently picked up by Jive Records. Jive expressed a strong liking for 2 of the 3 songs that Banks wrote for Heart, songs that both Banks as the mastermind behind the lyrics and Heart as the songbird; collaborated exceedingly well on- well enough to capture the attention of the prestigious Jive Records. More recently Greg Banks connecting with Bay area’s artist G-Eazy yet again for another great song that would push their careers yet even further ahead. The joined talents and great minds to do an epic remake of classic Dion & The Belmont’s “Runaround Sue”. In only two and a half months the video has 320,000 to plus views, and has been mentioned on countless blogs including Billboard.com.
However the superiority of Mr. Banks doesn’t stop with his musicality; Comparable to Fonzworth Bentley, Greg is truly deemed a trendsetter. Being the jack of all trades and the master of plenty; he has matriculated the arts of singing, songwriting, acting and modeling. Yet his dexterity doesn’t stop there. He infuses his sophisticated, urban style into the R&B fashion world. With his eccentric style and statuesque demeanor one can’t help but to notice Greg Banks. Vibrant colors, bold prints, and the clean well-kept manner define this GQ man. His distinctive style is inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, which was the height of elegance; his musicality being a wondrous whirlpool of the musical ingenuity and unequaled artistry of Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and others. With his eccentric style, his unique taste for fashion, a voice that is unmatched and unparalleled, and an outgoing performance with his band “The Crooners”, it is no exaggeration that the world of music will never be the same.
NOTABLE CAREER PERFORMANCES
§ B.E.T Black College Tour Competition Winner
§ Essence Music Festival Finale Concert
§ Opening act for Lil Wayne’ s No Ceiling Tour in Lafayette, LA
§ Opened act for Mike Jones and Jazzy Jeff in Philadelphia, PA
§ Xavier University Spring Fest opening act for Trey Songz
§ Howard University and Georgetown University performance in Washington, DC
§ S.O.B’s in New York, NY
§ BB Kings New York, NY
§ The World Famous Apollo Theater New York, NY
Q&A with Greg Banks:
BS: What ignited your passion for music? How has your upbringing in New Orleans played a role in your passion for music?
Greg Banks: My passion for music was ignited by the “Second Lines” & street performers in New Orleans. Growing up in the area of New Orleans that I did, I was left with few positive outlets, & music won my heart.
BS: How would you describe your journey so far in the music industry? How did you get started in your career?
Greg Banks: My journey has taken me many places. I’ve experienced joy, pain, laughter & tears, but my ambition has never waivered. The tragic “Hurrican Katrina” was the true start to my career. In that very moment I promised myself I’d do what I love until my heart stops.
BS: What do you feel sets you apart from other vocalists? Have you had any mentors that assisted you?
Greg Banks: I feel that truly expressing who I am with no representative, no veil over the eyes of my onlookers, gives me all that I need to stand out and be different person that I was born to be. I studied classsical voice in college, so I’d say my professor was my mentor.
BS: What artists or other individuals inspired you to pursue your music career? What motivates you to keep focused?
Greg Banks: First and foremost, my mother was my first inspiration. She encouraged my to be fearless and chase and catch what I believe in. My musical influences are Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Sam Cooke, just to name a few. All those whom have been moved by my art will be keeping me motivated to push forward.
BS: How would you describe your music? Which musical genre(s) would you say best describes your sound?
Greg Banks: Musically I’m a collage of my greatest influences. My music is a blend of R&B, Soul, Funk and Jazz.
BS: Did you have any fears that you had to overcome? What is a valuable life lesson that you have learned thus far?
Greg Banks: My subconscious fears were the hardest. Falling victim to the societal stereotypes of growing up in the ghetto haunted me for some time. I then realized you created your reality first in your thoughts. I then began to think differently which gave different results. The most valuable lesson has been “One bad decision can make one hundred good decisions null and void”.
BS: Do you feel that being a writer enhances your artistry? Please elaborate.
Greg Banks: I do feel being a writer allows my expressions to only be as limited as my knowledge attained. I can write anything that comes to mind because my mind has no boundaries. If one isn’t a writer they can only attempt to describe what they feel, and the writers experiences will make it a hit or miss.
BS: How do you continue to develop yourself and your brand?
Greg Banks: I pray for clarity in all of my steps. I seek counsel from wiser individuals whom I trust to help me brand the best Greg Banks. I’ve learned to make my personal taste more accessible.
BS: What do you look forward to the most in terms of your career?
Greg Banks: I look forward to uplifting and inspiring the most. Living a comfortable life off of the gift I was given is also very important to me as well, but if I can motivate someone to follow what they believe in, this circle is complete.
BLACK Cuisine: Macadamia Nut Crusted Salmon Stuffed w/ Shitake Mushrooms, Herbed Goat Cheese, Arugula and Lemon
INGREDIENTS:
6 ounce Salmon (fresh, skinned) – 2 thick pieces of salmon are ideal
1 tablespoon Pecorino cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Chopped Macadamia Nuts
1/2 cup Shitake Mushrooms (sliced)
2 cups Fresh Arugula
1 clove Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Granulated garlic powder
1 lemon (sliced into rings)
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon Fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon Fresh cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon Chipotle hot sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoon White Wine
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice
Arugula Pesto:
1 cup Fresh Arugula
2 Tbs – Pecorino Cheese
1 Tbs – Pine Nuts
1/3 Cup Olive oil
1 Clove Garlic, minced
1 tsp. Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon Fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
PREPARATION:
Take a 5-6 oz piece of fresh salmon (if frozen, please allow time to unthaw in the refrigerator) and use a paring knife to cut a 2 -3 inch deep slit into the salmon creating a pocket for the filling.
In a small mixing bowl combine your lemon juice, dill, garlic, hot sauce, mustard, pepper, and white wine. Place fish pieces in a dish and generously pour marinade over the fish. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and let sit for 30 minutes in refrigeration. Remember for more pronounced flavors, the salmon can sit overnight as well.
To make the pesto, Prepare an ice water bath in a large bowl, and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Put the arugula in a large sieve and plunge it into the boiling water. Immediately immerse all the arugula and stir so that it blanches evenly. Blanch for about 15 seconds. Remove, shake off the excess water, then plunge the arugula into the ice water bath and stir again so it cools as fast as possible. Drain well.
Squeeze the water out of the arugula with your hands until very dry. Roughly chop the arugula and put in a blender. Add the garlic, salt and pepper to taste, olive oil, pine nuts, lemon, parsley to the blender. Blend for at least 30 seconds. In this way the green of the arugula will thoroughly color the oil. Add the cheese and pulse to combine. Stuff the seasoned salmon with the mushrooms, arugula, lemon and goat cheese. Top with the chopped macadamia nuts and broil in the oven on 450 degrees for approximately 15 minutes until golden and the salmon is firm yet moist. Depending on the intensity of your broiler, keep an eye out; you don’t want to burn the dish.
Serve with your pesto and lemon wedges garnish.
YIELD
2 Servings
As seen on ABC 7 Chicago with “Next Food Network Star Season 8″ contestant, Chef Judson Todd Allen.
ESNAVI- Exit E
Esnavi
Soulful, Natural, Authentic, Vivacious, and Intriguing – ESNAVI {pronounced Es-Nah-V}. A singer/songwriter hailing from Milwaukee, now residing in NYC, she is a multifaceted artist with a voice of undeniable soul, lyrics of thought provoking truth, and music that harmoniously blends everything in between. With the release of her debut album, EXIT E, a 16-song musical journey inspired by love, society, and real life, her mission to enlighten the world through her music has begun. Her 1st single, Unexpected Love, reached the Top 40 on the Urban Adult Contemporary Charts shortly after its release and remained in the Top 40 Urban AC Charts for 10+ weeks. The video for the single has remained in rotation on VH1 Soul & Centric since its release and was selected as one of Centric Hot 10 Countdown picks. Now with the release of her 2nd single, Morning Dew, Esnavi is on the brink of becoming the next big thing to hit the music industry.
In 2012, she has already headlined in front of a sold out crowd at Apollo Music Café, performed on Good Day New York on FOX 5 NEWS, which has 2 million+ viewers daily, sang The National Anthem to 5,000+ people at the IZOD Center for the Harlem Globetrotters World Tour, performed at BAMcafé Live for an overcrowded room that had a line so long people were turned away, secured a music licensing deal with Abercrombie & Fitch, and to top it all off, she’ll be one of the faces for Alison Raffaele Cosmetics campaign, a cosmetics line that will be carried in Duane Reade stores nationwide, launching in Puerto Rico in May.
Esnavi has become an indie powerhouse in a short time. Although new to the mainstream, she’s been on this journey for years. As a child, her performing and writing skills were fostered. At the tender age of 3, she performed for the first time at a Miss Wisconsin Pageant and acquired a love for writing poems around the age of 8. A love for music was evident during those years. Her vocal ability, however, wasn’t discovered until she was in high school. It was then that the music she listened to growing up started to subconsciously mold the artist Esnavi is today. From Stevie Wonder to Annie Lennox to U2 to Miles Davis, she was drawn to all genres of music. Once she graduated from high school, layers came together and Esnavi was writing, recording and performing at a local studio.
After high school she pursued a marketing degree at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. While studying, “Music became the driving force in my life while in college, and the moment I turned in my last exam, I had an epiphany.” She realized becoming part of the corporate world was not her calling, but becoming an extraordinary artist was. “Singing was the only thing I envisioned myself doing. I became so passionate about it because I knew I had something unique to share.” No stranger to recording and performing, she had no qualms about making her move to New York. She teamed up with a fellow Milwaukee native, Fulani Hart, and completed recording her first project in which she co-wrote, Uncommon Ground in 2005. The album was never officially released on a label, but Esnavi created enough buzz on the New York music scene to get noticed.
NYC audiences were soon captivated with performances that brilliantly showcased her stellar vocals and versatility at historic music venues such as CBGB’s, Joe’s Pub, Village Underground, The Groove, Crash Mansion, The Shrine, and S.O.B.’s. As word traveled about her, she caught the attention of TV networks and appeared on BET’s The BETJ List as a featured unsigned artist and on MTV’s reality show The City. Since then, she has performed at the world famous Apollo, the historic Brooklyn Academy of Music, the IZOD Center and has been seen on one of the highest rated local morning shows in New York. Watching her perform, you sense a savvy entertainer with a deeply embedded passion. “I belong on stage. This is my home. It’s where I connect to the audience with my live energy.” She remains true to that connection by living in the moment each time she graces the stage. From her Paris Blues show with an impromptu freestyle of her song “Ding Ding” with beat box legend Rahzel, member of The Original Roots Crew, to her performance at S.O.B.’s Sol Village, hosted by Eric Roberson, where she exemplified her prowess to go off script and keep the crowd engaged or even when she effortlessly rocked a crowd of 200,000+ at the Taste Of Soul Music Festival in LA and made sure they knew her name before leaving the stage, Esnavi is electrifying and proves that every time she performs.
With the release of Exit E, which she co-wrote with producer, Michel Kunz, Esnavi has taken her career to the next level. Her current single, Morning Dew, is beginning to take the radio industry by storm. Despite comparisons to the likes of India.Arie, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill, Esnavi is definitely in a lane of her own. Her voice is clearly distinct and the beautifully arranged story that comprises Exit E is incomparable. “We wanted to create good music that transcends everything. Music that anyone in the world could listen to and love.” When you listen to her music, see her perform live and feel her energy, you experience Esnavi. “This journey is not about becoming a celebrity. It’s about music that stems from a real place with substance people can feel and relate to.”
Esnavi is truly an original artist on the brink of delivering a unique sound of soul to the world…her soul.
Q & A with Esnavi
BS: When did you realize singing was a talent of yours? Did you always know singing would be your career?
Esnavi: I didn’t realize I had vocal ability until I was in high school. No, I didn’t know I would pursue a career in singing until after I graduated from college.
BS: Which artist have inspired your growing up?
Esnavi: Stevie Wonder was a main inspiration while growing up.
BS: What do you do to grow as a singer in regards to vocally and performance wise?
Esnavi: I work on my vocal technique daily and vocally train weekly. I try to discover new and old music on a weekly basis as well to expand my repertoire. I also study my live footage and musical recordings to see what I want to work on to make each performance better than the last.
BS: What risks have you taken to attain your successful music career?
Esnavi: Leaving the 9 to 5 work world without financial security.
BS: Have you encountered any obstacles? How did you overcome them?
Esnavi: Yes, several. However, I overcome them with my team and I figuring out ways around those obstacles. I believe that nothing can stop what God has planned for you. With that mind frame, you’ll never encounter obstacles, you’ll just find other ways to make it happen.
BS: What is the most memorable experience you have encountered as an artist?
Esnavi: After a show, a complete stranger walked up to me crying. She expressed how one of my songs touched her so deeply and helped her through a very difficult time in her life. I’ll never forget that moment because it was the first time I realized that my music was serving its purpose.
BS: What advice would you give to an aspiring singer?
Esnavi: Sing for the love of it and be true to who you are as an artist and the rest will follow.
BS: What motto’s do you live by?
Esnavi: YOLO! Ha! I live by several mottos, but my number one is, The best way to predict your future is to create it.
BS: Other than your singing career, what other areas are you currently delving into or aspire to delve into?
Esnavi: Currently music is it. However, I will be part of a beauty campaign for a cosmetics line that is launching next month. So I’ll be delving into the beauty and fashion world soon. I’d also like to get into acting and perhaps becoming a radio/tv host or personality at some point. I love the camera!
Watch these videos of Esnavi performing live by DPVN.Net!
A DANCER THAT SINGS WITH HIS BODY- Yannick Lebrun
Yannick Lebrun
Yannick Lebrun, from Cayenne French Guiana, began training in his native country at the AdaclamSchool under the guidance of Jeanine Verin. After graduating high school in 2004, he moved to New York City to study at The Ailey School as a fellowship student. Mr. Lebrun has performed works by choreographers Troy Powell, Matthew Rushing, Debbie Allen, Scott Rink, Thaddeus Davis, Nilas Martins and Dwight Rhoden and danced with the Francesca Harper Project Modo Fusion. He was named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” in 2011. Mr. Lebrun was a member of Ailey II and joined the Company in 2008.
“Yannick Lebrun, with his elegant line, stands out …More and more, he is becoming the dancer you notice in a crowd.”- The New York Times“…making an impression this season…Marvelous.” -The Star-Ledger“He was a vision throughout the program. Mr. Lebrun doesn’t merely dance the steps,he sings with his body, and the music it makes keeps you wanting more.”- The New York Times
BS: When did you began dancing? Did you get professional experience prior to Alvin Ailey?
Yannick Lebrun: I started dancing at the age of 9. Dancing with the Alvin Ailey American dance theater was my first experience as a professional dancer. I was also a member of Ailey II before I joined the main company.
BS: How were you introduced to the opportunity to the Alvin Ailey school? How has this experience impacted you?
Yannick Lebrun: Since 1997, in French Guiana, I participated in dance competitions in various styles. Those competitions took place in every French department and are organized by the National Confederation of Dance in France. I remember going to Martinique in 2001 for a dance competition and the late Denise Jefferson was one of the judges. After the results, she announced that I was the recipient of a scholarship to come to The Ailey School summer intensive Program. The following years, in 2002 and 2003, she came to French Guiana and the same thing happened. Again, I was offered a scholarship to come for the Summer program.
I was 14 the first time I came to America to study at The Ailey School. The energy was amazing and the working environment was intense and challenging. The different techniques that I was introduced to amplified my love and passion for dance. Also getting the chance to work with great choreographers made me realize that Ailey was where I wanted to start a career as a professional dancer.
BS: I can only imagine the level of discipline it must require for you to maintain such a beautiful physique. What are your daily regimes, exercises, and/or practices to maintain your body build? Do you rehearse daily?
Yannick Lebrun: To maintain a body in great shape, I work out often. I make sure I take all the vitamins I need before rehearsals and performances. However one of the most important thing for me is to take class. We rehearse from Monday to Friday from 12 to 7pm and we have a company class at 10.30am prior to rehearsal.
BS: Have you encountered any obstacles or challenges that threatened your dancing? If so? How have you overcame them? Have you encountered any other obstacles?
Yannick Lebrun: When I was younger being the only boy doing ballet in my dance studio in French Guiana was not easy at first. I had to stay strong and focus on my goal to make others believe that being a male dancer was possible. Since then, I haven’t really encountered any obstacles.
BS: How long do you aspire to dance?
Yannick Lebrun: As long as I stay healthy and as long as my body allows me to, I will always keep dancing. Even though I may perform less as I grow old, I want to keep inspiring the generations that will come after me.
BS: What advice can you share with an aspiring dancer?
Yannick Lebrun: The most important advice that I can give is to stay passionate, to work hard and to start thinking about how to keep your body in shape. To be able to know how YOUR body functions and not YOUR FRIEND’S body is very important to have a successful career in Dance.
BS: Do you have any upcoming shows?
Yannick Lebrun: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 2011 New York City Center Season November 30-Janurary 1st and then a 27-city North American tour running from February-May.
TRIPLE THREAT OF THE ARTS- Shawn Luckey
Shawn Luckey
SHAWN LUCKEY is an American actor, writer, and producer. Originally born and partly raised in Washington, DC, Luckey relocated with his family to North Carolina where he graduated Winston-Salem State University. After attending a Michigan law school for one year and realizing his repressed passion for the arts had become too much to bear, Luckey set his sights on New York City. Soon thereafter, he co-founded a NY-based theater and film production company, Diversity Players of Harlem. As a business partner to Dwight Ali Williams, Luckey was intricate in solidifying deals for screen actors Kevin Brown NBC’s (30 Rock) and Dennis L.A. White (Notorious; The Brave One) to perform Marq Overton’s Die Laughing during separate Off-Broadway productions. Collectively, he has written and/or produced over twenty-five stage and film productions in five years.
As a performer, he has appeared in a number of commercials, plays and movies. His theatrical credits include: Charles Fuller’s A Soldier’s Play; Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky; and Craig Lucas’ Prelude to a Kiss. He has also appeared in Rev Run’s music video, Mind on the Road; and a NY Lottery Commercial. His directing credits include: Old Man Pete, among other projects, but his love of writing has manifested in the following: A Family’s Play; and the forthcoming projects: LaReina; and School Jerkz. Shawn’s film credits include: Spike Lee’s Miracle at St. Anna; and Tyler Perry’s For Colored Girls. He has a host of independent film projects slated for completion, including short films, A Family’s Story; The Grit, The Grandeur; and also Walking Maris’ Way.
Q&A With Shawn Luckey
BS: What captures you the most about the theatrical arts?
Shawn Luckey: The creative notion is what captures me the most about theatre or in the arts in general. You can take an idea or concept, and essentially create a show or production that could potentially galvanize hundreds, thousands or in some cases millions of people. Regardless of the intent; or whether it’s for sheer entertainment, educating or informing audiences, the result is imminent.
BS: What is your inspiration when writing a storyline for a show?
Shawn Luckey: My inspiration for writing a story line is totally using the human condition as my guide. I’m not going to discuss a robber going into a bank to steal cash and leave without shooting anyone. But, what I will do is analyze and present the dynamic and three-dimensional character that presents him or her in a situation that has been brought on by another. In other words, maybe that robber is dealing with an ailing parent or child that has placed them in that situation. So, if you use that as the litmus test for creative writing you’ll find the story taking a life of its own.
BS: Have you encountered any setbacks in this industry? How did you overcome them?
Shawn Luckey: Setbacks in the industry are inevitable. It’s like purchasing a car. You know you need to get your oil changed and tires rotated on the regular, so just brace yourself without focusing on it. The only way to overcome it is to not. There are so many layers and driving forces that play a part in the entertainment industry that you’ll drive yourself crazy thinking about it. My mantra is “In order for the ARTS to LIVE, then we as artists must DIE to CREATE.”
BS: How do you stand above competition?
Shawn Luckey: I don’t really like to think of my fellow artists as competition. However, you’ve got to have some sort of competitive edge. There’s a lot to contend with to find commercial success. If you’re focusing on your brand alone, then you don’t have to focus on the competition. When we think of copying, we say “please Xerox this paper.” Or when we think of a baby’s diaper, we say “change the baby’s Pamper.” Believe it or not those companies have completely tapped into their branding power by upstaging all the other similar products on the market.
BS: What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?
Shawn Luckey: The most rewarding thing about acting, writing and producing for me is doing it all over again like it’s the first time with every new project but with a sense of purpose and elevation.
