Top athletes congratulate Roger Federer on his 15 Grand Slam titles

Sunday 5th July saw Roger Federer defeat Andy Roddick in the finals of the mens singles that lasted just over 4 hours. Excited crowds saw Federer take home his 15th Grand Slam title beating former Grand Slam record holder Pete Sampras. To celebrate his win, top sports stars including Michael Jordan, Serena Williams and Tiger Woods congratulated him on his major achievement.

We think its safe to say Roger Federer is now the greatest player in Grand Slam history! The video is below!

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Rasheeda

Rasheeda, the famous female MC hailing from Atlanta, Georgia has been cranking out hits since early 2000. As a teenager while her friends were transitioning from Barbie dolls to make-up, Rasheeda was busy writing rhymes and perfecting her craft.

Rasheeda has always ruled as the Queen of Crunk but she has also established herself as one of the sexiest women in hip-hop.

1. What’s happening and how are things going?

Things are going good, working hard, promoting the new album, doing mixtapes and on the road.

2. What was the idea behind your debut video 'Boss Chick’ and can you give us a little insight into how you thought of the track?

The song just came to me I wanted to showcase women in a positive light we are strong business women, independent, trendsetting, successful, confident individuals and I thought people needed to know that so I made a song about it. The idea of the video was to showcase me and Boss Chicks of all aspects nothing too over the top just us typical women out here working hard doing our thing.

3. Your 5th album release ‘Certified Hot Chick’ is due for release this August, how are you feeling about this latest project and what will we expect from this exciting release?

I feel absolutely great about it. The album is what I call hot music with substance. Its diverse, sexy, edgy and is a manual for women & men.

4. What kind of topics to you touch on?

So many, from relationships situations both the good things and the bad, empowering women songs. Songs that express what I’ve been goin thru in my life and in this industry and the list goes on you can hear the titles and pretty much know where I’m going. “Show you to the door”, “Betta off alone”, “Compliment”, “Thang For You”, “Where Ya Been”, “Boss Chick” and etc.

5. What artists and producers have you worked with for your new album and who did you enjoy working with the most?

I enjoyed working with everyone. I have Shawnna, Diamond (formally of CrimeMob), Cherish & Kandi (formally of the group Xscape).

6. Being a former member of the hip hop trio ‘Da Kaperz’, has going solo enabled you to encorporate your own sound in your music?

Of course it has! But I will say even in the group we had flexibility. But as a solo artist I’m blessed I can do me.

7. Hailing from the ATL and having worked with Lil Jon and The Eastside Boys, Pastor Troy, Jazze Pha to name a few. How do you feel the crunk scene is progressing?

Music goes through phases and the title “Crunk Music” has fizzled down just like “Snap music”. But in the south we always made great club bangers and that’s not going anywhere. The quote on quote “crunk music era” will come around again I’m sure.

8. Being that you are a female hip hop artist in quite a strong position in the game, do you feel you are more relatable to other female mc’s?

Im a female entertainer and I think I’m relatable to females period not just in hip- hop but everyday women. I have to be that’s my audience.

9. What kind of advice would you like to give to other aspiring females mc’s trying to make it into the hip hop game?

I would tell her to be a individual, a leader not a follower go hard in this business you have to be taken seriously. There is a lot of rejection & fakeness so you will have to develop a thick skin. Get yourself a good team of people who have your back and most of all do you don’t get boxed in strive to be great at many things.

10. What’s the plan for 2009\10, can you give us a low down on what projects you will be working on?

Of course! My new album “Certified Hot Chick” will be dropping on August 18th 2009, Im workin on a few mixtapes and I will also be dropping a album with Kandi together we have a group called “PeachCandy” the project will be released in the near future. Im also workin on some TV ventures and I’ve been getting several of my songs placed in movies, TV & video games as well so I have lots of things going on.

11. Any shout outs?

Yes, to all my fans I love ya to death….. Hit me on

www.myspace.com/rasheedagapeach
www.blackplanet.com/rasheedagapeach
www.twitter.com/rasheedagapeach
www.youtube.com/dlo117
www.kyte.tv/rasheeda

Check out Rasheedas new video 'Boss Chick below!

Fashion Feature: SubSpecies

Now what do you get when cross 3 apes who have escaped from a maximum security zoo, forced to work for the big players in fashion, and now dedicated to taking the fashion industry by storm by releasing their own breed of clothing?....You get a new type of fashion and a new movement called 'SubSpecies'.

The Scene Magazine caught up with the creative group to see how things are going and to see how their plans are finally starting to unravell!

1. How did you all come up with the brand name 'Subspecies'?

Due to the varied skills & interests of the design team, we knew that creating a name that would cover all bases of the clothing fraternity was highly important. No matter the cult; extreme sports, B-boy, urban gangsta, anarchist or freak. Well that or maybe it was the 12 Stella's in the local boozer!!

2. After rounding up the troops for universal domination, can you give us a bit of insight into how your plan finally began to unravel to create a new breed of ‘Subspecies’?

It’s still slowly unraveling. Building a brand that isn’t going to sell out is something that needs to be neutered. We are finding word of mouth is an important tool as we have very little budget to place adverts in the media like the big labels can. We are building a BMX and Skate team at the mo and sponsoring some good up and commers in the hiphop scene. Oh and Monsieur Phil Kyle from London ink likes to rep us whenever he can.

3. How would you describe the style you encorporate into your clothing and where do you get your inspiration from?

The designers are all from different backgrounds of life so it’s a sit down around a table, get wasted and argue about what should be done and what shouldn’t. We listen to the people who are gonna buy our stuff, where the demand is and work from there to ensure every species of life is happy. The design team are extremely passionate about what they make and only leaves Sub HQ when everyone is satisfied with the product and they would wear it themselves.

4. Can you tell us a bit about the Series 1 limited edition range?

Series 1 is a collection of 18 limited edition graphic tees. Our Limited edition tees are enzyme washed to give a comfortable feel when new and made of the finest 200gsm Gold cotton available. Colours have been selected in earthy tones that ensure the graphics propel from the base colour of the tees. We worked tirelessly to ensure the fit and feel are of the ultimate...The graphics aren't bad either as we have tried to stay away from the plain old screen print and build the artwork up with flocks, raised embroidery and raised rubber welds.

The garment itself has a subspecies trademark 'T' bar cut & sew panel on the back, the inner yoke is a non feel printed jersey lining with felt flock monkey logo. The back neck tape is herringbone with a velour overlay for maximum comfort. Sizes are available in xs-xxl. This collection is available now. There are only 450 of each style/colour in existence. We will never produce these again, so when they are gone, there gone. So get on to our website and order one now....

5. Classic question here for the troops, what do you think of the fashion scene now and how do you feel about the influx of new up and coming brands now starting to emerge on to the market?

We started due to the lack of brands who really cared about the quality that they were putting out into the market. Everything is mass produced to the droves of sheep that follow a brand, then wonder why five people in the same pub are wearing the same clothes as you?! There are masses of emerging labels coming through, some good, some real bad, but you gotta have a plan, not just oh I’ve got 5 graphics here, lets get Joe bloggs down the road to print them in his garage, sell them, then errr....We try to stay away from trend direction too, that stuffs for the catwalk cats and ladida’s of this world. I mean who makes these trends up? Someone trying to sell you a book for £600 per season, thats who.......

Thats why we made ours limited edition, there are no boudaries your guaranteed to be different, a Subspecies. There are No Gods No Masters!!

6. What type of challenges have all of you faced whilst building the label?

The credit crunch kicked us real hard in the nuts. The depression, the Government, the media all of who scaremongered everyone into thinking the world was going to end.....which made the retailers in the industry panic and hold onto buying into emerging brands.

7. What’s the public reaction been like towards your brand?

We’re growing everyday, we have never received a return (which is real important to us) check out the blog on our site (http://subspeciesgb.com/blog.php?dt=756864) and see what the people who buy/enlist say. It’s not made up, it’s all the feedback been sent to us which helps us on our quest for perfection.

8. Where are you lines currently on sale?

We have our own online store at www.subspecies.co.uk for the tees and www.subspecies.bigcartel.com for the Lidz. We sell to a few stores in the U.K, Germany and Italy, but we are looking for good distributors and independent stockists across the world to help spread the word.

10. Finally, what advice would you give to those people thinking of starting up a new clothing label?

Wait till the economy returns to normal, get yourself some serious cash to market your brand, write down a plan of attack and try stick to it. In fact, just don't bother, buy some subspecies gear and straight rep it to all your mates...haha

Check out Subspecies online store at: http://subspeciesgb.com/

Special Feature: Shifty

Shifty is a sharply scripted, witty, urban thriller, from writer/director Eran Creevy. Set on the outskirts of London it follows themes of friendship and loyalty over the course of 24 hours in the life of a young drug dealer, the charismatic "Shifty".

Starring

Riz Ahmed (Shifty)

Riz Ahmed is one of the most exciting actors and musicians of his generation. Recently nominated for Best Actor at the 2008 British Independent Film Awards for his lead role in Shifty, Riz will also attend the 2008 Berlin Film festival for the worldwide premiere of his next feature Rage; a Sally Potter film, with Jude Law and Judi Dench scheduled for release in summer 2009.

Daniel Mays (Chris)

RADA graduate Danny Mays has performed five plays at the Royal Court Theatre garnering critical praise for parts written specifically for him including Motortown by Simon Stephens and The Winterling by Jez Butterworth.

He won the Best Actor prize at the Palmare Television Festival in 2003 for his role in the hard hitting improvised BBC drama Rehab. His television credits include series lead Carter Kranz in Funland, Consent, Class of 76, Tipping the Velvet, Top Buzzer, Saddam's Tribe and Half Broken Things.

The Production

Based in part on real events witnessed by writer-director Eran Creevy, who grew up on the outskirts of London, Shifty was filmed entirely on location in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, which doubled for the fictional suburb of Dudlowe where the film is set. A 30-strong production crew shot in 17 locations across 18 days in August 2007. “It was a hugely ambitious undertaking,” says Eran.

Riz Ahmed (right) and Daniel Mays (left)

“We were shooting on average 5 pages a day which meant the pace never let up. Our biggest enemy was the weather – we had rain, sun, wind, sleet, hailstones and back to sun again, all in the same day.”

The toughest challenge for first time feature director Eran was the pressure. Having laboured over the script for more than 3 years, the tight shooting schedule meant being extraordinarily disciplined on set. He explains,

“All the energy, the build up, the crew hire, script development, auditions, casting, preproduction and then it all comes down to 25 minutes to achieve the shot before the light goes or you have 30 people who need to break for lunch. The pressure of that moment is immense and surreal. I just had to make sure I was always in the right head space on set as sometimes compromises have to be made.”

However, whilst the budget for the film was modest by Hollywood standards, the cast and crew were determined there would be no sacrifices on quality. “Everyone brought their A-game to this film and it shows. No one was in it for the money.” says Riz Ahmed.

Director: Erran Creevy

Danny Mays says,

“When I found out the budget was £100K I must admit that at first I thought it’ll be a bit of a kick and a scramble. But I honestly really enjoyed making this film. Everyone was on the same money and we developed this kind of siege mentality. One for all and all for one. It was hectic and time was always tight but as an actor I never felt rushed. I always had room to do what I needed to and that’s testament to the professionalism and talent of the director, producers and crew.”

To help promote the release of Shifty UK artists Sway, Plan B and Riz himself released the track titled 'Shifty' (below)

Release date: 24th April 2009

Special Feature: Rimae Clothing

With summer just around the corner, the influx of new fashion lines will begin to attract those who always keep an eye out for the latest seasonal trends ready to hit the market.

The Rimae Clothing brand based in Cardiff; are aiming to bring a fresh and contemporary look to those who are eagerly awaiting new styles to hit the scene. With their philosophy being "Imagination and understanding is the start of being free", they feel that understanding leaves you with no limitations and a good imagination will set you free. Their objective is to let people know about the benefits of ethical and organic clothing as they feel it's going to be the future in fashion design. As Nathan Palmer founder of Rimae Clothing says;

“I feel that there is a fashion designer in all of us. It takes time to decide what you wear in the morning or what you would decide to put on, on a date, and that's what fashion designer does but in more in more detail, designing to me is the arrangement of an idea, which has originated from a source in my case paper, to a toile to the finished article in a nutshell".

With new clothing brands constantly emerging onto the fashion scene and with the competition growing, Rimae Clothing aim to introduce their lines outside of Wales. Their lines have already attracted the attention of those in Bath and London. Pieces to look out for will be their new male black cardigans which are available in 2 styles.

These exciting new additions trail along the smart/casual look, with their usual blend of Bamboo and Cashmere making these new pieces unique in their finish. One cardigan is a 6 wooden button cardigan featuring the gold Rimae Clothing coats of arms logo embroidered onto the left hand side of the chest. These 2 pieces adds to the Rimae Clothing luxury collection.

Rimae Clothing continues to make an impression. To add, they have received support from professional sports personalities from the world of athletics and Rugby, such as Jamie Baulch, Nathan Brew, Aled Brew and Nicky Robinson. As stated in a recent interview, Nathans inspiration comes from:

“What is around me, it does not have to be a particular object, setting or colour. A lot of our design's come from moods and feeling that have happened throughout the day. It can be a series of event's even which may have happened in a different period of my life but through my Sub-curious is brought to me through a vision or a dream, I like to give thanks to god mostly as through our hard work and pray we feel that he is always watching over us making sure that things go well.”

Today, Rimae Clothing is known for its knit and woven apparel, such as t-shirts, polo shirts, sweaters and cardigans that all have that vintage feel. Rimae Clothing's commitment to a perfect fit, timeless style, longevity and classic chic flair have solidified Rimae Clothing's brand position as a leader and trend setter in premier smart knitwear and smart casual clothing.

Check out their website at: http://www.rimae.co.uk

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Grhymey

Grhymey was born and grew up in North West London. The stage name `Grhymey’, was a playful pun on his surname, Grimes. His music though, is anything but grimey. Using his own style of humour with a razor sharp intellect and a lyrical soulfulness, Grhymey’s music is challenging all the traditional perceptions of Hip Hop. His music, like the man himself, is vibrant and catchy. Combining a versatile lyrical style with his own brand of humour, Grhymey is changing the face of Hip Hop as we know it in the UK. His music is positive, not censored and has a wide appeal.


1. What’s happening Grhymey and how are things going?

Not too bad at the moment to be honest. A lot’s happening regarding interviews and performances, a lot more to come and my team and I are looking forward to it all.

2. What was the idea behind your debut video 'who’s that’?

The idea was actually given to us by the Director (Jon Walton). He thought the track was more about my lyrical content and the production of the track. So he thought the Green Screen would be more effective than a story based video. The ideas really based on a new up and coming Hip Hop artist getting in everyones face so they remember me. ‘’Who’s That? Grhymey is here’’

3. Got a classic question for you, what makes your music different from any other UK hip hop artist?

That’s a classic alright............Firstly because I’m capable of playing with words in ways not many can. A lot of people don’t catch on to some of my punch lines for months and sometimes years. I still get people talking about some of my lyrics they only just caught on to from hearing them first in 2006. Secondly, because my story is different to most other artists around as I’m working a 9-5, raising two young sons and trying to pursue a music career, a lot more people can relate to what I stand for and what I’m trying to do. I guess that’s why people of all ages or from many different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities like what I’m doing. I also try to do what others are not doing, without seeming weird or strange.

4. Since you have been on the scene, what kind of feedback have you received regarding your music so far?

So far so good, I honestly couldn’t ask for any more from my fans or people in general. If I’m honest the feedback I’ve been getting is one of the, if not the main, reason why I’m still pursuing my music career. Anybody can be a rapper or entertainer, but few are good enough to actually raise the awareness through their talent, without relying solely on image and marketing.

5. Growing up in North-West London and with music becoming your platform to express your experiences in life, how do you feel about your music reaching out to those dedicated UK Hip Hop fans and what type of message are you trying to put out in your music?

I feel confident in reaching out to all UK Hip Hop fans. From those who prefer the underground to the more commercial fans. My music isn’t for one specific audience and has proven that from the feedback I receive. The message I’m trying to put out to be frank is: Don’t bet against a UK Hip Hop Artist giving the American Hip Hop Artist a good run for their money. If it’s not me to finally break that deadlock, I like to think I would have helped it happen.

6. Are we going to be expecting a mixtape or debut album from you soon and what ideas do you have for it?

You can expect both, but certainly an Album first. I have already done a mixtape (It’s my time now), although it wasn’t well promoted it was well appreciated. Since then I have been working none stop on new material, with various different producers. I now have a good catalogue of tracks for an Album, which is very close to completion. Regarding the ideas, we have all different types of ideas; from concepts and stories, to witty and bragging tracks. There will surely be more than enough for every listener. So watch this space and look out for ‘Call off the search’.

7. When and where was your first live performance and how did the crowd react?

My first performance was when I was in school.................but I won’t include that. So my first real/professional performance as Grhymey was in 2002. It was a community function in one of Brent’s local parks. Not many people were listening while I was on stage. The function was mainly for young children and you know what their attentions spans like..... Those who were listening though did like what I was doing, so it wasn’t all that bad I guess.

8. What’s the plan for 2009, can you give us a low down on what projects you will be working on?

Yep......I’m currently finishing off my Debut Album ‘Call off the search’. We should be releasing three singles from that album and the first one ‘Who’s That?’ can be downloaded for free at www.grhymey.com I should be performing all over the UK and a few places in Europe, so keep visiting the website for the latest news updates. I might release a mixtape later on in the year, but that depends on the success of the Album. So we’ll have to wait and see what happens. I also have a few EPs I’m working on with a few different Producers. It’s work then rest until my times up.

9. Any shout outs?

I’d like to shout out to The Scene Magazine for making this happen and thanks for the support. I’d also like to shout out the whole of the Rhemic Entertainment family, let’s keep putting that hard work in and we’ll be nice in the very near future. Shout out to all the Producers showing me love and throwing hot beats in my direction, left right and centre. Then I always save the best until last, shout out to the fans for keeping me going and believing I can reach my dreams. With your help we can take this UK scene to another level. So let’s make it happen and keep supporting Grhymey. Stay focused!

Rooney, Ferdinand and Cole Show Their Five!

Ahead of the kick-off of tonights Champions League match between Inter Milan and Manchester United, Nike will debut its latest TV spot showcasing the skills of some of the UK’s best young five a-side talent as they go toe-to-toe with some of the finest footballers in the world. Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Joe Cole all feature in the spot which encapsulates the way British youths are playing the small-sided game. The pitch is the stage for these youngsters self expression and the challenge is clear – it’s winner stays on.

The ad opens with a shot of a young player making his way to a five a-side game under nightfall, watched at every turn by CCTV. The focus switches to a five a-side cage where the cameras are turned on their heads and pointed towards the pitch. These players clearly want the chance to show their skills off.

Frenetic action cut between various CCTV cameras ensues with Wayne Rooney at the centre of much of the play. The tricks, flicks and flair of the youngsters is watched by Rio Ferdinand who has been lumbered with the job of referee and ends the spot by calling the late-night football favourite “next-goal wins”.

An insider on set said: “The Premier League players involved were seriously impressed by the skills on show from some of the youngsters which led to some great moments on the pitch. The banter between the young lads and the stars was great and it felt as though they were almost on an even footing on the five a-side pitch. Rooney, Ferdinand, and Cole are all used to playing five-a-side in training but I don’t think they had experienced anything quite like this before.”

The advert is part of a new campaign in which Nike is asking all players aged 16-24 to “Show Your Five” in a new nationwide tournament. Deploying a unique ladder system as the tournament format 200 local qualifying heats will take place in venues in and around London, Glasgow, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle during March. Premier League stars will drop in to see the action as each of the winning teams will then claim a place at the city finals with the chance to be crowned their city’s top team. Winners from each city will then go head-to-head at the national final for the title of Nike5 Champions.

To see the ad in full, the clip is below:

A Bulldog Is Not Just For Christmas.....

To celebrate Christmas this year, Bulldog the UK’s first natural grooming brand for men is launching three new gifts that are sure to be perfect stocking fillers for men everywhere. The new gifts will be available in Debenhams and Sainsbury’s and contain a selection of Bulldog’s award winning natural products.

Since launching last year, Bulldog has continued to lead the way as the pioneer of natural grooming. With a refreshing attitude to the category, the Bulldog product range does not contain any of the controversial man-made chemicals used in other grooming products, including parabens, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial colours and synthetic fragrances.

Instead, each Bulldog product is packed with at least seven essential oils and a host of natural ingredients that offer improved performance in a “body friendly” way.

The new gift sets are:

Bulldog Wash Kit For Men (Sainsbury’s Wash Bag) - RRP: £10 - Products Contained: Bulldog Original Shampoo (200ml), Face Wash (175ml), Shower Gel (200ml)

Bulldog Grooming Kit For Men (Debenhams Wash Bag) - RRP: £12 - Products Contained: Bulldog Original Face Wash (175ml), Shave Gel (175ml) and Moisturiser (100ml)

Bulldog Original Shower Gel and Moisturiser Box Set - (Sainsbury’s and Debenhams). - RRP: £7 - Products Contained: Bulldog Original Shower Gel (200ml) and Moisturiser (100ml)

Review: Lynx Hydrating Shower Range

The new Lynx hydrating shower range is the latest offering to the world of mens grooming products. Lynx have also launched their new Sharp Focus fragrance which will be a perfect addition to the Lynx shower gel range!

The new range includes:

1. Hydrating Gel – A shower balm that contains the soothing power of aloe vera to form the perfect post beach soother

2. Purifying Gel - A purifying shower tonic that utilises the essence of tea tree to give a deep clean power surge and clearer skin

3. Smoothing Gel – The exfoliating and exotic freshness of cactus milk leaves guys’ skin feeling smooth and energised

The range is perfectly designed to be the perfect shower companion with their tantalizing trio scrub, deep clean or hydrate the skin leaving you feeling and looking smooth and strong.....also leave you smelling good too!! The Smoothing gel has small exfoliating balls which are designed to give you the massaging and all important exfoliating treatment which works well. Also, with the added bonus of the fresh cactus milk men can finally enjoy the benefits of a good skin care kit!

So drive the girls wild with irresistible skin, all thanks to Lynx. The Skin Contact range is available nationwide with an RRP of £2.49 for each product. For more information visit www.lynxeffect.com

Mr Midas launches exclusive T-shirt range for Want Respect? Use a Condom

Mr Midas, who rose to fame in T4’s popular Sunday morning show Musicool, has collaborated with Want Respect? Use a Condom to personally design 200 limited edition T-shirts to help promote safe sex. This exclusive run, tagged with the Want Respect? logo will be available for a limited time only from www.myspace.com/wantrespect

The Want Respect? Use a Condom T-shirts have been produced to promote self respect, respect in a relationship and encourage young people to practice safe sex by using condoms and protect themselves against STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Award winning artist, Mr Midas, has designed T-shirts for men and women featuring his trademark ‘MR’ design on the front in red and pink shades, as well as the Want Respect? Use a Condom logo on the sleeve and neck.

He says: “I work alongside Want Respect? Use a Condom to encourage the use of condoms and safe sex. I feel many young people are misinformed about sex and listen to their friends and peers rather than the experts. Image is very important within our society, especially with young people and these T-shirts will be used to make a statement to say ‘I respect myself and practice safe sex’.”

By designing T-shirts for Want Respect? Use a Condom Mr Midas hopes to encourage young people to take control of their sexual health and raise aspirations and empower young people to make positive choices in their lives.

Check out our interview with Mr Midas Here!

The Scene Magazine will be giving a couple of these exclusive t-shirts away in a brand new competition coming up soon, so stay tuned!

Event Review: Nike+ 10k Human Race

The Scene Magazine touched down in Londons most iconic sporting and entertainment venue, Wembley Stadium for London Nike+ 10k Human Race . For the first time, runners exclusively ran under the stadium, hitting the streets past live bands along the route and finally crossing the finish line upon 'Olympic Way'. The race celebrates the power of sport and music to inspire and connect runners from every corner of the planet.

Moby

In support of the event, an exclusive pre race concert from music acts Pendulum, Moby and DJ Carl Craig was held which successfully managed to elevate the runners and spectators with a choice of up tempo tracks to really get the crowds going and also take their minds off the poor wet weather to which the acts all did a good job of!

Team GB Captain Paula Radcliffe also graced the stage offering her words of encouragement to the Nike+ runners just before all runners got involved in a mass work out session performed by trainer Sonja Moses. The race began at 7pm with each wave heading towards the starting line to begin the daughnting 10k run which got off to a great start with runners warmed up and ready to get going!

Pendulum

Runners across the world were joined by Nike athletes including distance runner Kara Goucher, 7-time Tour De France Champion Lance Armstrong both running in Austin, plus marathoner Paul Tergat in Rome.

Paula Radcliffe finished the Nike+ Human Race in 40 minutes and 52 seconds

The Nike+ Human Race participants support the three official Nike+ Human Race charitable partners: the Lance Armstrong Foundation, WWF and the UN refugee agency's ninemillion.org campaign.

Attendees include:

Paula Radcliffe (marathon world-record holder)
Lord Sebastian Coe (double Olympic Champion and Chairman of the British Olympic Association)
Alex Zane (Television and radio presenter)
Moby (DJ and singer-songwriter)
Pendulum (Drum and Bass group)
Carl Craig (Detroit-born DJ)

The Scene Magazine Interviews: @Luke Miley Creative

@Luke Miley a fresh, young creative entertainment agency primarily working within Fashion, Music, Photography and P.R. With a vision to take the lead in the world of UK and International entertainment services, the agency continuously strives on success having worked with music artists from Def Jam, Universal, Dipset, Choice FM and BBC 1Xtra to name a few.

@Luke Miley also works with a range of top industry stylists, designers, models, photographers, make-up artists and hair stylists. They are continuing to work with new and existing clients and are also bringing them to the forefront of the entertainment and fashion industry.





1. What’s happening Luke and how is everything going?

Everything is real good right night, just mad busy with a load of different projects going on!

2. When did you first decide to start a career in international PR and tell us a little about your experience and background in PR?

You know what! I never wanted to do this! I wanted to be a pilot! I still want to be one now flying a jumbo jet or something! I started training pretty young (I actually almost crashed a plane by being a fool and trying a nose dive) but I knew I wasn’t going to get the grades in school and college plus I didn’t have the money to keep it up so I let it drift!

Before learning to fly, I started training with a company called Ape-Media to be a radio presenter I loved it, it was amazing! I was 13/14 and the station got a licence to broadcast for a month on FM and I had a week day show 12-2. I interviewed artists such as Soundbwoy, Terri Walker, Omar, Akala and Baby Blue it was amazing for me, I actually had a proper little show! After the broadcast, I kept in contact with everyone and I still work with almost all of them up until this day! Shout out to Ape-Media, they are fantastic I still work with them too!

Kamuran Kavaz (Model/Choreographer) - @Luke Miley

3. What exactly does @Luke Miley do?

Well that’s a hard one because we do so much people always get it confused and think we are a modelling agency or a photography agency. We have models and we have photographers, but we have just about everything else too, from DJ’s to fashion stylists, spray painters, hair stylists and jewellery brands.

We provide a lot of P.R to music artists signed to major labels and we also work on independent projects. Our fees are not disgustingly large, which is why people do come to us and get a fantastic service! I have just signed an amazing photographer called Iizsik (www.lukemiley.co.uk/iizisk), his work is amazing and I can quite honestly say he is one of the best emerging talents coming out of this country!

We have promo teams too, so if your looking to promote a product we have girls and guys up and down the country ready to promote your service!

5. Working with clients such as Lucy Ambache (Choice FM Breakfast), Ronnie Herel (BBC 1XTRA), Denise Brown (Stylist to the stars Rhianna, Kanye, Cassie, Jasmia (Britain’s Next Top Model) to name a few, How does it feel to be working with such an extensive and popular client list?

It’s fantastic, they are all amazingly talented people and I’m not just saying that! I do have some horror stories about some total prats I have worked with from producers, DJ’s and artists, but I will save that for when I'm a multi millionaire and write a tell all book! It’s funny because sometimes I sit back and relax at home and I may turn on the radio and I will hear one of my artists on air and its one of the most satisfying things to hear!

To know you got them there and people are enjoying their music is an amazing feeling or even when you see a client featured in a magazine and realise you work with them is brilliant as it shows that all the hard work is paying off.

Lucy Ambache (Choice FM Breakfast DJ) - @Luke Miley

6. Ok, can you tell us what a typical day for you is like?

Well it depends what time I go to bed or if I go to bed! I try to make sure all my meetings and appointments are booked after 12:30pm so I get to have a lay in the morning (bearing in mind I go to bed at around 5/6am!) I go through my emails throughout the day on my Blackberry, go to shoots, meetings, try and fit in a bit of shopping, phone calls, workshops the list goes on! No two days are ever the same!

7. How important do you think networking and keeping contacts is to a business and do you think the rise of social networking sites have given more aspiring entrepreneurs a chance to build their business?

Networking and contacts is crucial to a business, good relationships will gain you a rep, higher profile and will lead to bigger things! It’s true it’s about who you know!

8. Operating in such a competitive industry such as Fashion and Music, how do you plan to give ‘@Luke Miley’ that competitive edge?

Now that’s a secret! You just need to know your game and not be scared of competition and be original! Try and not follow the crowd, being a sheep is not cool and it doesn’t do your bank balance any justice!

Benjart Clothing - Photographer - Iizsik - @Luke Miley

9. When looking at potential clients, what kind of things do you look for?

Individuality! It’s key… I don’t go for just the run off the mill. I’m a crazy person so I like crazy things! But this is not even being rude 'NOT EVERYONE IS A MODEL!' I look through applications some times and I think, 'can I see them on a front cover of a magazine? You need to be able to take rejection and not be calling me or my assistant’s phone complaining saying “Why aren’t you working with me you’ll be sorry!” It gets slightly jarring!

10. What recent projects have you been working on?

Well there are quite a few things in the pipe line that I cant really talk about at the moment, but there are some massive things going on right now. This year were working on London Fashion week which is totally hot and we just supplied a load of our hot models for the front cover of RWD Magazine. You can also check out some of our girls in Sway and Lemars video which is coming out pretty soon.

We are also involved in the community and work in partnership with Ape Media/Newham council to provide work shops for youth during term and half term breaks. The courses range from tee shirt making, runway coaching, spray paiting, animation and so forth. We supply highly skilled creatives to teach, meaning the kids are gaining excellent skills which may help them later on in life if they choose to go down the creative route!

11. What advice would you give to those who are willing to start up their own business?

Be prepared for a long winded process, you need to be able to have determination and self discipline! Alot of people think you can get up in the morning and start new businesses, but I don’t think people realise that it consumes your whole life!

Website: http://www.lukemiley.co.uk

Want Respect? Use a Condom Competition: Win a years supply of Fusion Condoms!

Fusion condoms have teamed up with Want Respect?, Use a Condom to further promote awareness of safe sex. To celebrate, The Scene Magazine are giving 2 lucky readers the chance to win a years supply of Fusion condoms (103 in total).

To Win: All you need to do is send us an email and answer the following question:

The new Safe Sex Flex music video dedicated to the Want Respect?, Use a Condom campaign features which UK artists?

Send us your name and address with your entry to: press@repdascene.com and we will get back to you by the email address you sent your entry to us by if you are one of the winners.

Any details you send us will not be shared outside of The Scene Magazine. We will not send you any emails/post other than to tell you if you have won..which means no spam! The Scene Magazine will also not take responsibility for loss of items in the post.

Hint! - www.MySpace.com/wantrespect

To enter the competition, you must be 16 years+

Fusion Condoms and their website – www.fusioncondoms.com

Good Luck!

Event Review: San Miguel Hidden Depths - Secretsundaze

July 31st saw the 3rd San Miguel Hidden Depths event titled 'Secretsundaze' held in the popular T Bar located in Shoreditch, East London. Following from the highly successful events in London and Manchester, Secretsundaze was going to be alot different from the previous events held in the past by headlining underground House and Techno DJ's Giles Smith and James Priestley who took a break from their summer of Secretsundaze parties to curate a very special night for San Miguel. Hidden Depths made sure that this was going to be a night to remember by transforming the venue into a bespoke space with customised art and print design, ensuring a unique audience experience.

With Secretsundaze being invite only event, the venue had a very good turn out with party goers in high spirits which in turn created a good atmosphere especially with the headline artists being DJ's Giles Smith and James Priestley on set to provide audiences with a mix of Ibiza style sounds to really get the party mood in full swing. The venue was fully kitted out with comfortable seating areas and wide screen plasma tv screens situated near the centre of the dance floor which captured revellers doing their thing on the dance floor as well as showing screenshots of past Secretsundaze events that were held in locations around London.

Giles and James set included their consistant blends of Deep House and Techno which got the crowd hyped with some serious head nodding and inventive dance styles which drew the attention of those crowds who were not so keen on getting on to the dance floor, but as the Ibiza sounds started echoeing throughout the venue, the whole crowd began to feel the vibes and joined in the echoic mixtures of underground House and Techno compilations.

Overall, The entire event was entertaining and the performances from Giles Smith and James Priestly, plus special guests including Black Science and Detroit made the night even more memorable. The visual support from the plasma tv screens and unique art and design displays created more of a unique expreince. Definitely, another successful event provided by San Miguel Hidden Depths.

Website: www.sanmiguel.co.uk
Myspace: www.myspace.com/secretsundaze

Review: Bulldog Skincare Range

There are various mens grooming products out there on the market, but men still have a hard time finding the right skin care range which will work for them. Now that could be a thing of the past! A new men’s grooming range called Bulldog has launched on to the market and aims to meet the needs of men who are finding it a challenge searching for the right skincare range that works.

With more and more men getting used to the idea of filling up their bathroom cabinets with the latest grooming technology, Bulldog offers a wide range of specialist organic products for sensitive skin. The range includes moisturisers, shaving gels, post shaving balms, shower gels and face scrubs...an ideal kit for those guys who are serious about their grooming regime.
Having tried the new skin care range out, Bulldog does not easily irritate your skin or leave your skin feeling dry after applying generous amounts of moisturising cream, which is down to their use of natural ingredients. Instead, your skin will feel re-energised and feeling smooth, especially their shower gel which has refreshing Lemon and Bergamot scent.

The face wash contains Shea butter which is known for its moisturising properties and Rosehip oil which helps nourish and sooth the skin. The moisturising cream contains two important ingredients which are Green Tea and Green Algae which aid skin hydration. Another piece of good news is that not only is Bulldog skin care range affordable and has those all important essential oils, but they also have that sophisticated and masculine fragrance which will leave you feeling fresh and re-energised after a hectic day at work or after a workout at the gym. Bulldog definitely deserves its own shelf in your bathroom.

The Bulldog skin care range is available at Sainsburys, Superdrug, Waitrose and Planet Organic.

Website: www.meetthebulldog.com

CUT-it-Out Campaign at Underage Music Festival

August 8th will see 10,000 teenagers between 14-18 years old descend on London’s Victoria Park this year for the UK’s only underage music festival. Returning for a second year, the festival will see headline acts sharing the main stage with winning films from the anti-bullying initiative CUT-it-Out. This festival will also help empower young teens to lead anti-bullying campaigns in their schools, colleges and local communities as bullying is still rife amongst young teens.

Launched last year by former X-Factor winner, Shayne Ward, Vodafone UK and Beatbullying’s CUT-it-Out campaign asked teenagers to submit their ideas for a short film to reduce bullying. The winning three concepts were transformed into short films which will feature on giant stage-side plasmas, reaching all festival attendees, between performances. The films will also be streamed via Bluetooth to teenagers’ mobile handsets at the event.

Created exclusively for teenagers, the Underage Music Festival is headlined by UK music artist Dizzee Rascal and will feature a full day of some of the most popular current teenage acts including hardcore punk band The Gallows, The Maccabees, The Rascals and Care Bears.

The Scene Magazine will be heading to the music festival to bring you a full review of the event with a special report from an official CUT-it-Out Music Festival reporter...so stay tuned!

More information: www.underagefestivals.com

Baby J collaborates with Want Respect?

Hip Hop producer Baby J has collaborated with Want Respect? Use a Condom to create the 'Safe Sex Flex' track to help raise awareness of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and encourage young people to practice safe sex. Baby J, who is currently touring with Jay-Z and Mark Ronson, created the track with artists Rukus, Malik, Wariko and Yelitza.

Speaking on the project Baby J states: “I wanted to produce a track for Want Respect? Use a Condom because I understand the merits of educating young people about a positive and safe attitude towards sex. If I can raise awareness of safe sex via my music it’s the least I can do as a responsible father myself.”

Malik, the leading voice of Hip Hop in Birmingham said: "I think there needs to be more awareness about the dangers of unprotected sex and this campaign helps spread the message of safe sex via music to youth - they are the ones that need the information the most."

Rukus, who has worked closely with Baby J for a number of years said: "It’s important to raise this issue as some people think it’s cool to not use protection or it can’t affect them, but everybody is at risk."

The Scene Magazine will be having an exclusive interview with Baby J soon...so stay tuned!

The Safe Sex Flex track and video is available for download below or on www.MySpace.com/wantrespect or at www.babyj.biz.

Safe Sex Flex Track

https://rcpt.yousendit.com/588171707/10b2146384bb5 7ac99077482246eefd3

Safe Sex Flex Video

https://rcpt.yousendit.com/588172131/b0c1bdd649303 b265ffcd49e1ba68e14

Stay Dry, Stay Focussed And Get The Girl!

The new Lynx Sharp Focus, the latest in the range, combines the extra efficiency of an anti-perspirant with the legendary pulling power of the "Lynx Effect", to help guys stay focused on the mating game.

As the weather hots up this summer and the girls come out to play, no scenario makes guys sweat more than spotting a hot girls, Whether lounging by the pool or out on the town with the lads. Research proves that worrying about sweaty pits makes guys sweat even more, a distraction that can inevitably result in mating game failure!

Luckily the scientists over at Lynx have created the perfect solution that removes the distraction of those embarrasing sweaty moments. The new fragrance contains stimulating mint notes and natural peppermint, which studies have shown can actually increase alertness, allowing guys to focus their full attention on getting the girl! Lynx Sharp Focus actually helps to reduce sweat rather than just covering odour, enabling guys to wave goodbye to underarm sweat and wave hello to the girls, whilst keeping them fresh and dry in any mating scenario.

The Scene Magazine received a sample of the new Lynx fragrance and although alot of 'science' has gone into the anti-perspirant to end those embarassing moments, Lynx Sharp Focus still has that fresh and stimulating scent that will draw the attention of that girl!

Lynx Sharp Focus is available nationwide with an RRP of £2.59.

San Miguel and Hidden Depths

Hidden Depths is back for a second year, featuring one-off collaborations, special guests and exclusive performances from a collection of today’s most intriguing artists. It brings together all forms of entertainment including live music, DJ sets, art, AV and film. There will also be some hidden talents and special guests that will only be revealed on the night.

San Miguel will be hosting a series of 5 intimate events entitled Hidden Depths across London & Manchester starting on Thursday 26th June. In collaboration with San Miguel, showcasing the hidden depths of these artists, people will experience a unique night out and reap the benefits of looking beneath the surface of standard night out. These events will definetely appeal to people's curiosity and boost enthusiasm about the UK's most original and intriguing artists that is already beginning to show in the UK music scene.

In support of San Miguel and Hidden Depths, The Scene Magazine will be giving away new copies of the 'Wall of Sound' album in a brand new competiton which will be featured here soon.

To register for the free tickets, sign up on:

http://www.sanmiguel.co.uk

Also check out heir Myspace at:

http://www.myspace.com/hiddendepthstv

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Killagram

Born and named Gordon Jamieson, the 1/2 Colombiano and 1/2 Scottish MC, raised in London, started making music at the age of 18. Since picking up the mic, Killagram has been priveliged enough to rap in the presence of Rap group legends 'Cypress Hill', and more recently Eminem's protege Obie Trice. Creating a buzz for himself and releasing his mixtape 'The Foreign Exchange' hosted by G-Unit's DJ Whoo Kid. The mixtape is now still in heavy rotation and is recieving alot of positive feedback and recognition in the states as well as in the UK.

The Scene Magazine caught up with Killagram to see how things are going state side, his future projects and new mixtape and album plans.

1. What’s happening Killagram and how is everything going?

Everything is cool, just grinding making this music thing work.

2. Being approached by DJ Whoo Kid to host your mixtape ‘The Foreign Exchange’, how did that all come about?

Whilst working on the mixtape we where figuring out who could be host, being that Whoo kid is known as the mixtape king we decided to approach him. My manager is down with G-Unit so he hooked up a meeting for him to listen to my material. He came in and listened to the whole mixtape and said that he liked it! We were trying to get Westwood to do one half and Whoo kid to do the other but it didn't work out, maybe next time.

3. You have collaborated with artists such as Pharoahe Monch, Akon and Fabolous, how did it feel to be working with some of the biggest names in Hip Hop and which artist/s have you enjoyed working with the most?

It was a blessing to get these artists on my mixtape. I am a huge fan of Pharaohe monch and Akon. Akon is a very humble person and extremely hard working. So it would probably be him.

Killagram & DJ Whoo Kid

4. Got a classic question for you here, what makes your music different from any other UK hip hop artist/producer?

I'm half Colombian and Half Scottish so I think that really sums it up! I speak fluent Spanish and encorporate it into my music. At the end of the day it's my roots and I'm proud of them and it shows in my music. Generally everything about me is different from the style of my flow to lyrical content.

5. Since your mixtape has been in heavy rotation, what’s the feedback on the streets been like in London and the US?

It's been great! People are feeling it, I think people tend to look at me and judge, and when they hear the mixtape they are like Ohhh shit! But it has definitely been positive.

There is always some hatred but it's cool Fuck them!

6. What do you think of the UK urban music scene right now and what do you think of the influx of new talent that is starting to come through?

I think that there is a lot of Talent in the UK! Unfortunately, there is no financial backing for talent rap music wise. I think that the influx of talent is very good for the British music scene. I hope it can one day dominate. Don't get it fucked up though there is a lot of UK bullshit too!

7. Do you think social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook have given more aspiring music artists a chance to show their talent?

Definitely. We have seen artist such as Lilly allen get signed off Myspace and I'm sure there are more. It's a great way to show talent but again you find that such networking sites get polluted with trash too. But it's cheap, easy to use and a great marketing tool. It's amazing that you can get someone on the other side of the world listen to your music and give you feedback.

8. When and where was your first live performance state side and how did the crowd react?

My first show over here was last year at a spot called SNITCH. It was good I performed with a live band. The crowd like it a lot they were shocked that I had an english accent and could speak Spanish! I could hear them reacting to my punchlines which is always a good sign.

9. What’s the plan for 2008, can you give us a low down on what projects you will be working on?

Right now I'm writing more songs, I am getting an album together and working on a mixtape. I'm still working The foreign Exchange mixtape trying to open up as many avenues as possible. It's a slow grind in the right direction.

10. What advice would you give to those who are trying to make an impact in the music scene?

Make sure it is really what you want! This music shit is no joke! The industry is not as glamorous as it portrays itself and it's a lot of hard work! But if it's your dream then go for it !

The Foreign Exchange is available for free download: www.killagrammusic.com.

Shout outs!

My mum, Dad, Sister, Cucu, Selvin Jay, Energyman, Acevedo, DJ Whoo Kid , Shuler and Tony&Co!

Peace.

Interview by: Leon B
Big thanks to: Toney&Co

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Anusha

The Scene Magazine caught up with UK music artist Anusha to talk about her new album 'Hybrid Vision'. Born in Cardiff to parents of Sri Lanken and Mauritan decent, Anusha aims to make a big impact in the UK music scene. With a fusion of Eastern and Western culture her new album will definietly be a mix of sounds that UK RnB fans will enjoy!

Her new single 'Have it All' will be released on 2nd June


1. When did your career in music start and how did you begin to pursue it?

My career started when I first realised I could sing and then I met my Producer and we started to collaborate on my album.

2. Your new single 'Have it All' is due to be released in May, can you tell us a little about the single?

‘Have It All' is a catchy R&B/Club track with some great remixes by the Wideboys, ADP, Stylus and TMP. I love this single! The download release is on the 19th May and the main release is June 2nd.

3. Your new debut album 'Hybrid Vision', what was your idea behind this album and what are we going to expect from it?

It's called ‘Hybrid Vision’ because I’m a fusion of Eastern and Western Culture and that is reflected in the album. My father is from Sri Lanka and my mother is from Mauritius and so I was exposed to a wide range of music growing up. I am wishing for a lot of success!

4. What do you think of the UK music scene right about now?

Right now the music scene is hot and I am very proud to be apart of it.

5. How would you describe your style of music?

I would describe my music as Pop, R&B with a lot of heart and soul.

6. What's your favourite song on the album?

‘Circles’ because it’s about the highs and lows of life, it’s from the heart and it really touches me.

7. What kind of feedback have you received so far?

I’ve been receiving great feedback and I hope people continue to support, I’m really looking forward to be winning over more fans during the Shane Ward tour!

8. Looking at your busy show schedule, how does it feel to be supporting acts such as Shane Ward and Mutya Buena?

I’m very excited about the Shane Ward tour, it’s been my dream for as long I can remember to be performing on stages like the O2, I mean these are the biggest stages in Britain so you can imagine that I’m just ecstatic, I’m really looking forward to it. Apparently, I will be performing in front of 2,000 people so it’s going to be an experience. I’ve supported Mutya Buena once before, I love her songs so I’m really happy to be supporting her again and she’s also such a lovely artist.

9. Although you’re working (performing) at these shows it must be a great experience to also seeing their live performance and being influenced by them?

I think you can always learn from watching other artists and I’ve learnt so much from the artists that I’ve supported

10. Does it ever get a bit overwhelming?

Not really because my shows are really structured, I rehearse a lot and there are people around me that keep everything in line for me. I can only be the best I can be so I try not to be overwhelmed as I like to stay focused on what I’m doing in that space and time.

11. What future plans do you have musically?

My plan is to continue to work extremely hard and hopefully more opportunities will come my way and I look forward to preceding them and doing the best I can. Maybe one day I’ll be able to fulfil my dreams such as supporting Fabulous and the AMAZING Janet Jackson and also be the top of the bill on my own tour that would be amazing! I just hope that if I keep working hard it will happen.

Interview by: Leon B

Special Feature: Rosabella Gregory

Introducing, the extraordinary talent that is, Rosabella Gregory. Her delightfully involving songs feature page-turning narratives and piano detail as elegant as classic architecture. They speak as much of classical music and American folk as they do of classic songwriters, fuelled by a personal soundtrack that has embraced both Beethoven and Billy Joel, both Tori Amos and Metallica.

That entire cultural DNA makes up the singular style of the Hertfordshire-born daughter of an Egyptian father and Indian mother, who came together from disparate cultural backgrounds and raised the Gregory sisters within a stone’s throw of remote Dartmoor.

Rosabella collaborated with her un-identical twin, Dina, in a partnership that continues to this day. From early on, it was a successful partnership. At a young age, they were winning such prizes as the ENO Original Opera competition in 1992, the BBC Pebble Mill Song for Christmas in 1993, and the 1994 Yamaha Rock and Pop Awards where they consequently beat Chris Martin of Coldplay to 1st prize! Rosabella’s voice has also been used on many popular TV commercials.

Each track takes the listener on an emotional rollercoaster, exploring love and loss and addressing topical issues. For example, ‘Under the Rubble’ was written after she watched a moving documentary on Channel 4 that focused on the Iraq war and a specific man who lost his entire family in a bomb blast. Rosabella likes to see her songs as not auto-biographical but more a narration into her thoughts and the lives of others.

Rosabella’s path could have been a very different one, as her family members excelled in everything academic. But driven by a deep love of her craft, she took the plunge into music and it seems that academia’s loss is brooding piano-pop’s gain.

Watch out for an interview coming soon!

New Girl On The Scene: Nayo!

After phenomenal success last year, her new album African Girl is tipped for bigger success, with a collection of beautifully crafted lyrics and smooth melodies.

Nayo (nigh-awh) is no ordinary girl. Born Temitope Odunayo Abidoye in Lagos, Nigeria, Nayo arose from the tragedy of losing her father through the power of music, faith and hope. Amidst the harsh realities of her troubled nation whilst grooving along to Astrud Gilberto, Sade and the politically charged lyrics of Nigeria’s own Fela Kuti, Nayo looked inward and sought to turn around her tragedy into something positive. With this renewed sense of determination, she relocated to the UK shortly after and has been working on this amazing new album. Remixes of the track African Girl immediately found its way to Number 11 on the UK Club Chart and on to the Ministry of Sound’s “HedKandi Serve Chilled” compilation.

'Desert Storm', the new single, is an ode to the Sahara about the phenomenon of inescapable attraction. Co-written with KK (Dido, Kylie Minogue), the track features strong influences of jazz, trip hop and bossanova.

With so much more to come, Nayo’s smooth vocal style and exciting dance remixes are going to take the UK by storm and her new album Desert Storm and African Girl will melt away your winter blues.

With Nayo already featured in Time Out, Daily Mirror and Blues and Soul. The Scene Magazine will be having an exclusive interview with the songstress very soon. So stay tuned!

Site: www.nayomusic.com

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Valmike Rampersad

With projects such as 'Right Hand Drive' and 'Get To Know Me' successfully completed and now currently filming 'Open Secrets' alongside BAFTA nominee actor Saeed Jaffrey, Valmike Rampersad is ready to show the world his acting talent. With his first professional role in the 2007 film 'Aisha and Nadeem', the young actor tells us how his career has been so far and talks to us about his various projects to date.

Taking time out of his busy schedule to talk to The Scene Magazine, we get to find out about how things are going and what new projects are in store for the up and coming actor.

1. When did you first realise that you wanted to become an actor and what attracted you to turn it into a career?

Acting was always something I was interested in but I never thought about pursuing it. I started going to the Method Studio on a whim, just to see what it would be like, in the evenings after work. The classes soon took over my weekends and before I knew it, it was all I was thinking about. Performing gave me a different kind of buzz from my day job so I decided to take a risk and apply to Drama school. I was thrilled when I got in. I guess I didn't want to spend the rest of my life thinking 'what if'. Seeing more and more Asian actors on screen was also very encouraging.

2. Can you tell us more about the project ‘Aisha and Nadeem’ which was executive produced by Marc Boothe, 'Bullet Boy'?

That was my first professional job. It is a film about a brother and sister. Aisha is 'English' and always has been, but her world collapses when her brother Nadeem is abducted by American soldiers while traveling in Pakistan and is subsequently taken to Guantanamo bay. The process was very different from other films I have since worked on. My 'sister' and I spent a lot of time together in character in public, doing the things siblings do. The dialogue was purely improvised when we filmed, there was no script which made it both difficult and easy. Easy in the sense that I didn't have to worry about my lines. Kothai, the Director based the film on a true story and the characters backgrounds subsequently developed in rehearsals.

3. How do you feel about watching yourself after you performed in front of the camera? Do you ever think that you could have improved in certain scenes, or are you mostly content with your work?

I still don't enjoy seeing myself on screen. It's a bit like hearing your own voice when you play back the voicemail message on your mobile. I don't think I will ever get over that. The process of developing a character and then filming it is way more rewarding.

I am a perfectionist and I always think that there is room for improvement. Acting is an on-going learning process for me. I still go to classes in the evenings whenever I have the opportunity. Every time you work with a new Director or crew, you learn something new.

4. Knowing how to transcend into different role types and accents, do you think this gives you a bigger advantage?

I think all actors need to know how to transcend into different role types and accents, so I'm not really at a bigger advantage. Training (at Central School of Speech and Drama) definitely gave me the confidence to be able to bring different characters to the roles, genuinely tap into my emotions and a good understanding of how to learn accents, which is always good fun.

5. You have recently completed a drama titled 'Get To Know Me' directed by Danish newcomer Tommy Ipsen at Zentropa (Lars Von Trier and Tomas Vinterberg's) studios, Denmark, can you tell us more about your role in this project?

The film is inspired by 'Pi' (Darren Aronofsky), 'A Scanner Darkly', 'Science of Sleep' and the computer game 'Final Fantasy 7'. I play the lead 'Peter'. It is set in modern Berlin where Peter meets Sarah while trying to unravel the secrets of his forgotten past. He creates a 'system' that he thinks will unravel people's energy connections and his connection to Sarah. Peter is an obsessed, methodical, transatlantic young man and the story unfolds as he discovers the answers.

6. What is the most difficult scene you have had to shoot in your career?

That's got to be a scene from 'Get To Know Me', which was shot entirely on green screen. It was a very emotional two hander scene, but because of the camera angle and the green screen, I had no one to act with. The lines were given to me from behind the camera whilst I had to imagine that the actress I was speaking to was right in front of me. Tommy (Director) wanted different levels of emotion, so we did seven takes and I had to cry seven times. After each take I would say to Tommy that I didn't think I could cry again, but he got it out of me.

7. What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far in your acting career?

One night after a sellout show of 'Collision' at the Edinburgh Fringe festival last year, we all went out to celebrate. I am not a big drinker and I had one too many that night which made my performance the following night very difficult. Ever since, I avoid alcohol from the minute I start preparing for a role.

I welcome a challenge though and as my career is relatively new (graduated from Drama school in July 07), I hope that there will be even bigger challenges in the future.

8. What type of films, theatre do you like?

I really enjoy Dramas. I watch a lot of TV and was/am hooked on 'Mistresses', 'Spooks' and 'Brothers and Sisters'. Some of my favourite plays are 'The Vertical Hour' and 'Piano Forte', both at The Royal Court and 'Festen'. It would be amazing if someone did the Asian version of 'Festen' (based on the dogma movie by Thomas Vinterberg). As for films, that's a really long list. There are so many brilliant films. One that immediately comes to mind has to be 'La Vie En Rose'.

9. What role has had the biggest impact on your career and has any of your work caught the attention of other movie directors in the industry?

All of my work is relatively new and still in post production. It amazes me how long it takes. 'Aisha and Nadeem', is the only completed film which has gone on to various festivals and was picked up for international distribution at the Clermont-Ferrand Short Film Festival. It is also now being made into a feature. It's still early days after all and hopefully the work that I have done will start making the film circuits soon.

10. Any plans to do theatre work? Which do you prefer film, TVor theatre?

It would be a dream to work at The National, The Royal Court or The Donmar. I go to the theatre a lot in between jobs. I don't really have a preference as such. It is very different from film and TV, but equally rewarding. I really do enjoy them all. Each medium requires the same level of preparation.

Valmike and actor Saeed Jaffery

11. Can you tell us about your latest project?

I have just completed filming 'Open Secrets' alongside Saeed Jaffrey (BAFTA nominee,'My Beautiful Laundrette', 'Gandhi', 'The Man Who Would Be King') which was a brilliant experience. I play a suicidal manic depressive and Saeed plays my Uncle. The film deals with the stigma of mental health in the Asian community. Working with someone as talented as Saeed was an amazing learning experience. He has so much energy and even at 79, is still so excited and enthusiastic about filming.

12. What was it like?

It was a bit of a challenge to develop the character and to bring myself to a really dark place for the attempted suicide scene. The character, Sunil, is 21 which meant bringing a certain innocence and naivety to the role (Valmike is 27). I also had to learn to smoke like a real smoker, that meant taking it into my lungs and 'enjoying it' first thing in the morning.

My character finds solace in smoking so it was crucial to the role. I didn't want to act it. Sunil is depressed most of the time, but medicated, with slight mood swings. It was a bit of a luxury to shoot most of the film in chronological order. Azeem Khan (Director) knew what he wanted from each performance and we both had the same vision for the character's journey throughout which made it a joy to film.

13. What advice would you give to other young and aspiring actors trying to make it into the industry?

I am not sure I am in a position to give advice as such but I would say that if acting is what you really want to do, stick with it. Nothing good comes easy, but remember to take some time out for yourself and don't get too consumed by the process.

Interview by: Leon Beck

Lynx Pioneers New Mixable Fragrances!

Once again, Lynx is upping the ante in attracting women with the launch of its revolutionary new product, Lynx 3. The all new, dual spray experience, allows guys to combine two individual fragrances to create the ultimate Lynx Effect.

With the success of the Lynx 'Dark Temptation' range, this unique two can package introduces a whole new way to spray. Guys can experiment with different combinations and adjust the amounts of each fragrance they apply, creating a finished scent that is entirely bespoke. Plus the dual action spray makes all-over application quicker and easier than ever before.

The innovative fragrance combination works by blending similar background scents of woody-musk and cedarwood with contrasting top notes of citrus and green leaves. Guys out there looking for a sensual, aromatic fragrance should spray more of CAN1 (aka Angelo 7) with its cardamom and nutmeg top notes. Whereas guys looking for a sharper, fresher scent can spray more of CAN 2 (aka Blue 22) with its citrus notes, bergamot and hints of tangerine.

With the Lynx3 now available nationwide priced of £5.58, the dual spray Lynx 3 will give guys the ultimate Lynx Effect!

Editorial: How To Be An Accomplished Artist In A Working World

Everybody’s gotta work right? Upkeep on the necessities and various ‘treats’ in life. Even the pushers on the street corners or runners on push bikes at 4am say they’re ‘on the job’.

Reality is, in order to get through in life you need to have steady income. And the music world is no exception. If you want to succeed in this industry you need to have some money put aside to execute your conquest.

Yeah but L.B I know this, that’s not why I’m here. My problem is with my 9-5, studying or shift work conflicting with my music venture; I’m finding it hard to balance the two.

Before I can speak about that it’s important to go through what is needed for an independent artist to market his/herself and see how we can use resources at work and home to accomplish this.

What Marketing tools are available for an independent artist these days?

Press/PR
It a known fact that PR companies are reluctant to take on unsigned acts as usually such persons either cannot afford to pay them or they are not fully convinced you will have a successful career that they can make money from If a PR does decide to take you on, you will be expected to meet their expenses which will usually be for phone calls, printing and mailing costs.

The Internet has lowered the immediate need to have a PR company push your initial material, but there are still areas in the industry that having a well-connected PR rep will benefit immensely. However, don’t feel you’re disadvantaging yourself if you don’t hire the services of a PR rep. Remember, the more you do for yourself, the more attractive you are to the industry, so build that hype!

Website
Now unless you are well-educated in the world of Flash and HTML, producing a well put together website can be very expensive. Ranging anything from £300 - £2000. Aim to spend no higher than £500 if with Flash, and £350 without.

I can’t stress how important it is to have a website. Labels, A&Rs, Promoters and other artists take you more seriously, because (not knocking MySpace) but anyone can make a MySpace account. My 12-year-old sister has one. Also you can sell merchandise from an artist Website. MySpace should be used as an accompanying marketing tool (I’ll expand later).

Gigs
A very good list of promoters can be found in the Unsigned Guide. Think of it as Yellow Pages for the independent artist (see www.theunsignedguide.com). If you have a telephone/email at work, wisely use these tools to go through the list of promoters that can help you get a gig.

Radio Airplay
As Gigs. Credible underground stations such as ITCH, Dejavu, Rinse etc will not be listed in the directory so Google them. Failing that; listen out to ads on their stations of ways to submit info.

Now I’ve been blessed enough to have a national release and regular radio airplay in both Australia and New Zealand, but that was through some clever marketing techniques on MySpace which I will share with you.

How to use Networking websites like MySpace efficiently.

Two songs max
When submitting demos to major labels, they usually only require demos with no more than two or three tracks with your 1st song being the strongest. Use this same line of thinking with MySpace. That way your strongest songs are on constant rotation. Remember you never know who will be listening.

Also having a small list of songs on your page also increases the number of times these songs are played, thereby making your music appear it is being listened to a lot more. Having too many songs thins out the number of plays-per-song.

Top Friends
People are placed in TF for a reason! For example, if a well known DJ has a list of top friends, investigate these persons. Find out their job role; send them a message politely asking an opinion on one of your tracks. You’ll be surprised who you find: Managers, Media reps, other big DJs. Remember, just because you don’t know them, doesn’t mean they’re not important.

HTML Comments
If you’re able to leave a HTML banner, flyer, ad – do it. Especially on pages that are regularly viewed (i.e major artists, DJs and celebs)

Message when Friend Requesting
People get FR all the time – especially your major artists, DJs and celebs. Doesn’t mean they’ll add them though, which consequently means you’re unable to advertise on their page. But you don’t need to be someone’s friend to mail them…Here is where you can use a little pro-activeness and send a brief, yet direct message asking for a professional opinion on one of your tracks. Show respect and make them feel important – especially if it’s a man. We like our egos massaged.

Get your Legal game up
The music business is called such because you can’t have one without the other. Here are a few things I advise you consider before searching for major gigs or commercial radio airplay.

The PRS (Performing Rights Society) and MCPS (Mechanical Copyright Protection Society) are two of the world's largest royalty collection societies. MCPS licenses the recording and use of music in all areas of media whilst, the PRS ensure royalties are collected when your music is being performed live infront of a listening public, and you as the artist is entitled to this money.

Membership is £100 and you can backdate your work for up to 12 months.

The Next Step – Management

Once you have your marketing and legal basics in place and interest/business begins to flourish in terms of radio airplay, CD sales and gigs (to name a few), you will begin to feel the strain of upholding both the secure job and now your new musical career.

To keep a firm grip on this momentum and help nurture and nourish this ‘baby’ that is your music career, you will need to employ the help of a manager.

Factors to consider when choosing a manager:

1. How experienced a manager is he/she?
2. Has he/she successfully managed other artists (not producers or songwriters)?
3. What is his/her background? Has he/she worked for a long time in the music industry? If so, for whom? How helpful will that experience be?
4. Does he/she generally have a good reputation?
5. Is he/she primarily a "business manager" or a "creative manager"?
6. If he/she currently manages other artists how long have those other artists been represented by him/her? Do those relationships appear to be successful and happy ones?
7. How affable is he/she? Will he/she be able to get on with, for example, the record company staff?
8. Where is he/she based? In London? If outside London, will that become a problem to you?
9. What other commitments and distractions does he/she have (both business and personal)?

How to get a manager
Do some research. Talk to your musician friends; read any relevant publications; speak to a solicitor, accountant, agent and, if you know any, people working in record companies and publishing companies; ask for recommendations. Try to attend industry networking events as you never know who you may meet. Many a manager has been chosen from such events.

In closing, try best to use your working environment to your advantage. These resources can include Email, Internet, Post, Phone etc. Now by this I don’t mean abuse the system, but if you’re giving access to resources that can help you, by all means use them within the capacity available ensuring you keep your job.

The music industry is a tough one, and can seem like a constant uphill struggle, but believe in yourself, get others to believe in you, put the work in and you will reap the benefits.

Words by: Richard Etienne
Myspace: www.myspace.com/lbuk

Official King Apparel Spring Party!

Thursday 3rd April 2008 sees Cargo, one of the most prestigious venues in the East End of London host the first official King Apparel Spring Party. A heavyweight line up of acts confirmed for the night include DJ’s Plastician (Terrorhythm/Rince FM), Odin (King Affiliates ‘Strictly Underground’ CD) Peanut (Rinse FM) and Joker (Terrorhythm) alongside live performances from Wretch32, Pyrelli and J2K. From 7pm till late, it is FREE entrance with goodie bags for the first 200 people. This is Road Block territory so get there early!

More Info: www.kingunderapparel.com

One To Watch: Sagar Radia

Actor and City University graduate Sagar Radia, 21, from London began to establish himself on our TV screens by appearing as a patient on the popular BBC1 medical drama Casualty. For those looking for inspiration, Sagar only started his acting career at the age of 16 with his first professional acting role at just 18, which goes to show that whatever age you are, its never to late (or in this case early!) to achieve where you want to go in life.

Taking his first steps into the world of performing arts, Sagar trained at The Harris Drama School in Wembley where he attended evening classes while at the same time studying to complete his A-Levels and then degree in Media and Sociology. Commenting on the Harris drama school he states;

“They looked at acting a whole lot differently to my college class, a more professional outlook - audition techniques, script work and improvisation. College was more Stage Work - different acting techniques, basic terminology and literature”.

Appearing in commercials for Tesco Mobile (2005) and the 2007 Cricket World Cup, Sagar has completed various acting roles such a starring in the major Bollywood film, 'Namastey London', starring alongside Bollywood actors, Akshay Kumar and Rishi Kapoor, which did well in northern parts of India and received good reviews and responses in the UK. Sagar then went on to film 'Britz' in late 2006, which was directed by BAFTA Award winner Peter Kosminsky. 'Britz' takes a controversial look on a family from Bradford living in Britain under the anti-terror legislation. The story focuses on a brother and sister (Sohail and Nasima) who are British born and Muslim, who are both pulled apart or pulled in different directions by their personal experiences after 9/11.

With such a controversial film under his belt, this has given Sagar the platform to further his career and enable him in line take on similar roles in the future.

Speaking on role preparation, when Sagar receives a script, he will read it only once and will not read it again till the next day or even a few days after! At this point you may think ‘He must have been in the acting profession for a couple of years!’, but the young actor believes that if you become too focused on the words, it will ruin any sort of creativity, especially so early on. Also, to get more familiar with a role he has been selected to act, he researches around the topic to improve his on screen performance. Sagar found it slightly difficult to adapt to his role in Casualty as he had to extensively research medical terminology that he had no clue about.

“In medical drama's it’s got to be as authentic as possible as you have to know how to react to certain situations”.

Being 16 and attempting to get into an industry which is very competitive was very much surreal to Sagar. With the UK film industry booming with more popular films, the competition for leading roles is tight. As Sagar started out at a young age, this gives him a big advantage over those who are just starting out in the industry. Keeping a cool head about things, Sagar still keeps in contact with close friends, despite having a somewhat busy schedule!

Sagars roles to date have been dramatic, which really tests his acting and on camera skills. Speaking about how he would like to transcend into doing some comedy roles, he tells The Scene Mag;

“As of right now, I would love to do some comedy. Growing up on 'Harry Enfield & Chums' and 'Only Fools 'n Horses' it makes you want to deliver the way they did! I liked 'Goodness Gracious Me' at the time as well. It showed Asians can be funny and not just money hungry!”

Evidently, comedy acts such as Omid Djalili and Russell Peters are now opening more doors for aspiring Asian comedy acts to walk through. Today, more Asian acts are beginning to show their talent across the UK which means comedy audiences are becoming more receptive to the influx of young new talent from all over the world waiting to grace our screens. Stepping into a comedy role will be a whole new transition for Sagar who has come from roles which are relatively serious and dramatic, comedy involves entertaining the masses which can be a hard task as maintaining the funny guy persona can be fun, but pressurizing at the same time!

Sagar has just recently finished filming a couple of episodes for BBC's top drama ‘Waking the Dead’ which is due to be released in spring. Excited at the fact that he has yet again embarked on another serious role, Sagar has decided to Take a step away from the small screen for a while and try his hand at writing; as he explains;

“I wrote a few small things that I have locked away at home but it’s been a few years since I’ve looked at that! When you see people like Noel Clarke (Kidulthood, Adulthood) it inspires you to write for the youth because the credibility of the stories is now there”

With 'Waking the Dead' ready for spring release, Sagar has the doors wide open for him to pursue other projects. At just 21 years old there is still much ahead for Sagar. His love for acting coupled with his sharp sense of ambition leaves little doubt that Sagar Radia has only just begun to show the world what new talent London has to offer.

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sagarradia

Album Review: Ricta - Rictape

Having released his debut 'General No One' mixtape in May 2007, Ricta now gives us his new mixtape titled 'Rictape'. Filled with 18 well produced tracks, this mixtape gives us excellent beat productions and collaborations that further elevates Rictas lyrical ability which is evidently heard throughout the mixtape. With a mixture of slow and up beat tracks, this is definitely a good follow up to his 2007 debut 'General No One' mixtape release.

Influenced by late 80’s/early 90’s US Hip Hop, Rictas shows us his true skills in this mixtape and being a talented UK MC is really something Ricta aims to live up to.

Download Link: http://www.rapidshare.com/files/91753617/Ricta_-_Rictape__2008_.rar

1. Welcome (Feat: Jabba Tha Kut)
2. Lost Verse i
3. Learn The Basics
4. Breathe
5. Craftin' The Jewelz (Feat: Jabba The Kut) (Produced By DJ Opi)
6. Lost Verse ii
7. Endless Journey (Feat: Jabba The Kut)
8. Lost Verse iii
9. A Kid Named Lee
10. DJ T-Bear (Stupid Shout)
11. Right Education
12. Get Down
13. Recorded Freestyle
14. Thought It Wasnt
15. Underground
16. Breaking The 50's
17. The Rain (Revisited)
18. Give It Up


Bonus Tracks

1. Words Cant Describe (Feat: Printz, Mistah, Dan-W, Ricta)
2. Gettin' Your Spot (Feat: Dan-W, Printz, Mistah, Ricta, Idyllic)
3. Fire (Feat: Dan-W, Ricta, Mou$ie, Idyllic, Printz, Mistah)

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/rictaofficial

Fancy Smelling Good Enough To Eat?

This month Lynx, the UK’s leading male grooming brand is upping the ante yet again by unleashing its most irresistible fragrance to date - Dark Temptation. Proving once again that when it comes to pulling no one knows more than the Lynx Institute of Attractiveness, they have created a unique fragrance that makes guys as irresistible to women as chocolate evidently seen in the adverts!

Available just in time for Valentine’s Day, Dark Temptation mixes the fragrance of lady-tempting chocolate and whipped cream with the legendary Lynx Effect to create a scent guaranteed to get girls salivating.

The TV ad, on screens now, sees our Chocolate Man hero reaping the rewards from a bevy of beauties nibbling and licking him wherever he goes. The first time I saw the advert I was even thinking to myself "I have to go and buy this fragrance and see if I can get the same attention!"

For more chocolate based fun, guys can go online www.lynxeffect.com to see videos of would-be lotharios putting choco chat up lines into action. They can also take part in the Chocolate Challenge by submitting videos of their own chocolate based pulling techniques for the chance to win an iPod. Further tips, techniques and weapons of mass seduction, including customised chocolate e-cards, are also available to download online.

Dark Temptation deodorant is available nationwide now - RRP £2.79. Also available in anti-per spirant and shower gel.

Competiton!: Win a day in the studio with music producer Si Begg

Want Respect? Use a Condom has teamed up with music producer Si Begg to offer one lucky competition winner the chance to spend a day in a music studio remixing tracks with Si Begg as well as creating a tune themselves!

Si Begg is the producer behind the music video on Want Respect? Use a Condom MySpace page. Begg has got an 'anything goes' approach to music making and is heavily into the mechanics of sound and has played at some of the World's most renowned clubs, including The Boutique at Fabric in London, Tresor in Berlin and Liquid Rooms in Tokyo.

For your chance to win a day in a music studio with him visit: www.myspace/wantrespect
www.myspace.com/sibegg

British Teenagers Blame ‘Drink, Drugs and Partying’ For Not Using Condoms. What’s Your Excuse?

Almost half 42% of British teens say people who do not use condoms are irresponsible, four out of ten say its too risky not to, and only 2.5% of Britain’s 13 – 17 year olds think it’s cool not to use condoms. Yet many don’t bother to use protection when having sex. So why are teens today not protecting themselves?

Not thinking about the consequences of unprotected sex is named as the number one reason why half of all 13 to 17 year olds in Britain don’t use condoms. Excuse number two is the lack of availability of condoms at late night parties, in fact 48% of young people have today revealed that not being able to access condoms whilst staying out until the small hours of the morning prevents them from having safer sex.

In third place, 46% of teens say that as the night hots up and they are caught in the heat of the moment condoms stay firmly in their pockets. By ignoring the consequences of having unprotected sex, teenagers risk having an unplanned pregnancy or catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

According to the survey of 1,600 teens, drugs and alcohol play a big role as a third of all teenagers admit to being too drunk or high to think about using condoms. A further two fifths feel they are being pressured into not using condoms because their boyfriend or girlfriend doesn’t want to use protection.

Petra Boynton, spokesperson for Want Respect? Use a Condom said;

"Almost 50% of girls who get pregnant under 18 have an abortion and three out of four teenage mothers say their pregnancies are unplanned. This is too important to take risks. Getting contraception sorted to prevent pregnancy and always using a condom to avoid STIs is a vital part of looking after yourself".

“Respect yourself and your partner. Taking control now will mean fewer regrets after the event!.”

Top 10 Excuses

1. Don't think about the consequences of getting pregnant or catching STIs - 50%

2. Not available when needed i.e. late night after a party - 48%

3. Caught in the moment without a condom - 46%

4. Boyfriend/girlfriend not wanting to use a condom - 38%

5. I was drinking/getting high - 34%

6. Too embarrassed to suggest using one with girl/boy - 32%

7. I/my girlfriend is on the pill - 26%

8. It ruins the mood - 26%

9. It's too expensive - 13%

10. Dont want to be thought of as easy - 13%

One To Watch: Blackwell

Hailing from Ohia, USA, aspiring Hip Hop artist Blackwell has released the ‘Un4givable’ EP through independent label, Alamo Records. Tracks taken from the EP include the remix of ‘I’m Ya Puppet’ originally sang by James & Bobby Purify. Blackwell flows exceptional well on this track, and delivers a smooth musical persona throughout the classic masterpiece. The title track ‘Un4givable’ was produced by Mister KA and C-DOC from Chuck D’s label Slam Jamz Records, of Public Enemy.

Representing a musical gift that was influenced from family genes, Blackwell is the great nephew of Otis Blackwell who wrote for Elvis Presley. Having continued to develop his musical craft over the last 15 years, credits include supporting established artists across the US and features on a promotional CD conducted for the Safety Kids Organisation which raises social awareness to youths nationwide.

1. When did your musical aspirations start and how did you begin to pursue them?

I was listening to the record from the Sugarhill Gang, “Rapper’s Delight”, when I was young and the mix of R&B and Rap really grabbed my attention and I could relate to the song’s theme. Right there I wanted to create music like that and rhymes like that that appealed to everyone.

2. Where do your musical inspirations come from?

I have listen to a lot of Stevie wonder I love the keyboard arrangement, a lot of old school hip hop like Rakim, 3rd Bass, Public Enemy, Heavy D and The Boyz, and how they got a message across without all the cursing, bragging, and not downgrading women.

3. How would you describe your music?

A mix of R&B and Hip Hop and present a lyrical content dealing with issues everyone has neither experienced or can relate to.

4. What projects have you been working on?

Currently releasing a mix tape late January titled, “Unleashed”, which features myself and a gang of new upcoming artist, my next CD, “Therapy” comes out May 27th this year, and working with a new female hip hop mc Lil Dynomite that comes out this summer.

5. How have you been promoting your projects?

The web helps a lot I been using Myspace, backpage.com, craigslist.com, postaroo.com, plus I’m on amazon.com, emusic.com, local music magazines placing ads, and hitting tons of open mic nights.

6. What projects/collaborations have already been released?

Recently released my latest CD “Un4givable”, which is available on amazon.com and sunsetmusicstore.com, and features soundclick.com #1 beat maker Mister KA and from the rap group The Impossebulls producer C-DOC (who are signed to Slam Jamz Records which is Chuck D. of Public Enemy’s label).

7. What’s been your biggest musical achievement to date?

That I had the opportunity to open for Run-DMC, LL Cool J, Kanye West, Ghostface Killah, and record with Dave Matthews, and finally signed to a label.

8. What’s on the musical agenda for 2008?

Both my new CDs, working on releasing my book, “Therapy”, named after my next CD which tells about my growing up trying to get in the business, releasing a new CD from a new female mc Lil Dynomite this summer I produced, and a mix tape in January that showcases new talent from around the world.

Upcoming shows include:

Jan. 18th at Café 4 U in Ohio at 7pm for Open Mic Night,
Jan. 27th at the Quicken Loans Arena opening for Chris Brown, show starts at 7pm
Feb. 14th at the Yeowza Resort in Dundee, Ohio, show starts at 8pm and $5 admission

For further information and updates on Blackwell please check out his webpage at www.myspace.com/thanyceone612

Interview by: Nina Carmela

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Damien O' Brien

Damien started his career performing at local pubs in South London and local birthday parties, but it was in the Autumn of 2005 Damien's career took off. After blagging his way into an exclusive party in London where he amazed numerous celebrities and reality TV stars, Damien managed to show what he was really made of.

Since that night Damien has been booked to perform at some of the most prestigious events and clubs in the UK including 50 Cents after show party, 2006 Brit Awards, 2006 NME Awards, 2006 National Soap Awards just to name a few.

1. Whats happening Damien, How are things going with you at the moment?

Yeah, everything is going well with me. Working hard on new tricks and illusions at the moment and I’m also putting together my first ever stage show which will be shown at the Venue Theatre in Leicester SQ on February 3rd bank holiday Sunday. So yeah all good at the moment.

2. When did you first become interested in magic?

I first became interested in magic when I was about 12. My friend Richard who lived opposite me use to do magic and I used to watch him all the time and just loved the way he could get the reactions he did.

Damien, Michelle Scott Lee & Garath Gates: OK Party

When I was about 13 I asked him if he would teach me a few tricks, he showed me one trick and I practiced it for about a month then when I saw him again I showed him that I could do the trick, but I also was trying to do other tricks and from that point he saw I was really intrigued by magic and so he helped me get into it and it went from there and I ain't stopped performing since. I don’t think I’ll ever stop, it’s a amazing thing to be able to amaze people like that and inspire them.

3. You have performed in front of celebrities and at events such as 50 Cents Gunit aftershow party, Sugababes, Calum Best, Michelle Scott Lee and at the UMA Awards 2007, how does it feel to attract such a prestige audience?

It’s amazing to be able to perform for stars such as 50 Cent & The Beckham's because growing up I always thought to myself I’m going to be a great magician and make sure I show the world what I can do. So to actually be living my dream and for people like 50 Cent to take interest in me is an amazing feeling. Last year, I also had the chance to present an award at the Urban Music Awards which was an incredible thing to do. It was first time in ages that I was nerves about going on stage, but once I was up there was almost something inside me saying this is it you have made it now live it and it was just a great feeling.

Damien & UK music artist Kano

4. After years of performing magic, how do you keep your acts fresh?

To keep your magic fresh, every magician will agree with this, is that you have to be very dedicated and want to learn more and have the time to sit back and work hard at learning and perfecting a trick. I also believe it helps if you have a creative mind and enjoy making new tricks, but that is one good thing with magic, there are always new tricks coming out for you to learn so I do my best to try to keep up with learning new tricks when I’m not on the road performing or in meetings. So you can always be sure to see a new trick from me every time you see me perform.

5. What has magic afforded you in your life?

Magic has been the best thing in my life. I don’t come from the best of areas and it has helped keep me away from hanging about on the streets, drinking or doing drugs. So magic has really helped me become a better person to keep away from all them things.

6. Since early 2006 Damien you have been filming your new DVD which will show footage of you performing some of the best magic ever to be seen on film. Do you have any more TV projects that will be coming out for all to see soon?

Yeah, I got my own TV show called 'Mind & Magic' which has been shown on Invincible TV in the UK and USA. But I’m in talks now for another TV show with a major company. unfortunately, I can’t say who the company is; but I’ll be filming with them this month, I’ll also be releasing the dates and channel the show will be airing on soon on my website www.damienobrien.com.

I’m also going to be a judge on a new TV show called 'The next urban superstar' which is bit like The Xfactor and Britains Got Talent rolled in to one. There will be singers, dancers and comedians it will be great show, then off course this year’s Brit Awards and UMA awards.

Damien and N-Dubz

7. Where do you look for inspiration for your magic?

For inspiration, I try not to look at other magicians for it because I believe you will look to them too much, then eventually you will try to be just like them. I want to be the first me, not a poor someone else but I do watch other magicians to see what they do and love seeing them come up with new tricks it’s still fun to watch after all this time.

8. We are only starting to see a few magic acts coming on to the scene, Where do you want to take magic?

For me I want to take magic to the highest level possible, I want people to look at magic as something amazing and show people how incredible it really can be. In my opinion, magic is not a popular as it should be which is a shame. I’m not going to say names, but there magicians out there what have given magic a bad name and people look at it as a boring old act and the one thing I’m trying to do is make it modern and exciting again

9. Are there any people, actors, other magicians, comedians, that you really would like to work with?

If I could work with anyone would be Eminem he has been one of the most influential people of our time he speaks his mind and tells people how it is and people love him for it. He just has amazing talent he can affect people with words just like magic. Any magician would be Paul Harris a brilliant magician from America without doubts one of the best ever.

Damien & RnB star Gabrielle at UMA Awards

10. With a wide range of effects from cards, coins, watches, rings and even mind control. What would you say is your favourite trick and why?

My favourite trick is a new one I just made called 'Kinder Ring'.

I borrow someone’s ring and make it disappear in front off their face, then I offer them 20p to replace the ring; when they say no I change the 20p into a kinder egg it looks amazing. I hand them the kinder egg and say ok have this instead and when they say no again I say remember when you was kid there always use to be a surprise inside, then when they open it up break open the chocolate inside the hard yellow shell they find there ring. It’s amazing and just gets the best reaction.

11. Any new plans for 2008?

My plans for 2008 is to make sure people will see allot more off me and have more cool tricks for people to see and above all just to have fun and keep living my dream.

12. Any shout outs?

I would like to say big thank you to my friend Richard Bellars for getting me into magic as a kid would never be here if wasn’t for you.

My family for letting me pursue my dream and making sure I never gave up.

My friends for always being there for me my manager Jordan Kensington for believing in me and giving me the chance to perform at a higher level and to all the people who watch me I wouldn’t have got this far if I had no one to perform for so thank you all peace

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/damiensmagic
Website: http://www.damienobrien.com/

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Cross Bone T

UKHH has birthed one compelling individual, a gift of artistry certainly compliments Cross Bone T’s musical craft. This rising star has been shining since birth and although just 20 years of age, Mr T has accomplished the rise and rise of a compelling musical profile. Having performed alongside the likes of Jehst, Kashemere, De La Soul, Blade, Klashnekoff and even Pop idol Rachel Stevens, Cross Bone T is no stranger to the UKHH scene even without any official releases.


The following interview speaks for itself, Nina Carmela digs into the compelling musical venture of Cross Bone T.

1. When did your musical aspirations start and how did you begin to pursue them?

I’ve always had a strong connection with music from since I was baby. Sitting in the chair trying to wobble to the music my mum played and what not! But it was about age 3 or 4 when I started to listen to Michael Jackson that it really connected with me. Then from about age 6, after trying to sing his songs and realising I was whack, started to try and learn the little rap parts he would sometimes have. And it’s really just grown from there. Like to this day, I still have my first rhyme book from age 6. But I would say once I started working with my first crew back when I was about 12/13 and working with my guitarist Liam Cottrell, that I was like, ok, this is what I want to do. And here I am now!

2. What or who has influenced your chosen music ambition?

Mainly just my love for the arts in general. I used to do drawings back in the day but I always felt music is the best way to express myself. As with music, I can get away with saying things I wouldn’t normally say in general conversation. And as I got older, realising music was becoming so monotonous, everybody on the same bling bling, sexy women, fast cars, bang their gun talk. Made me think like, hold up. I know people who live in 7 bedrooms houses who have never experienced a low moment in their life, yet they think they can get away with it on record?!

Seeing people believing it so much and thinking that’s how they should be living life just topped it off for me. As I realised, if people follow this stuff that deeply, why can’t they learn something valuable from music?

3. You produce music as well as being an artist, what do you enjoy the most and why?

I would say its 50/50. As I have wanted to be an artist for so long, there is always that enjoyment and excitement about it that I doubt will fade for years to come. Although lately, it has seemed more like a job that I’m always trying to make time to do. It’s more of a, “I have a deadline for this track so I better finish it” Or if I get inspired I need to write before I lose that inspiration to do it. As where with composing and producing other artists, it’s more of a creative and relaxed process for me. As I can step out of the box so to speak and be creative in a different sense. It’s good to have many ways of expressing yourself.

4. Where have you performed?

I would have to say, way too many places (gives a slight laugh). Nah on a real, there is so many places. I have done quite a few shows in Wales which was always fun. Especially the time I did a show with Rachel Stevens & Hundred Reasons at the same event. Done shows in Brighton, loads around the Medway area, done Milton Keynes and loads of other places. Not to mention an uncountable amount in London. Can’t remember the names of all the venues though, they all are just a blur of lights shining on me. But Cargo and Jazz Café are standouts for me.

5. You’ve worked with various artists and producers both unsigned and established who’s been the most inspiring to work with and why?

To be honest, I really couldn’t answer that one as there are always things I like about working with different artists. Everyone has their own work style and personality, and to me being around so many different ways of working towards the same goal is what is really most inspiring. But I would have to say Jehst, Kashmere, Mike-S, Jai, Sniper Glee, Liam Cottrell, Akir & Mista Montana amongst others stand out work wise for me.

6. What makes your music incomparable from any other artist/producer?

The fact that I am Cross Bone T and no one else. I mean like, everyone has artists they feel and would like some aspect of that artist’s style in their music as people have things in common which is natural. But its how people collect the things about the artist’s they like and mix it with their own personality that creates an individual. And that’s something I feel I do well. Unlike a lot of these manufactured artists and bands from TV shows, where people who have no idea musically what on earth they are talking about, tell them do this or that.

7. Tell us a bit more on your record label Skull & CrossBone Productions.

The label is simply my way of putting music out. Back when no labels were interested in me I gained that mentality of “If you want something done, you have to do it yourself”. Now I know how labels work from a business perspective and I see it has nothing to do with the music what so ever, which now makes sense as to why so many dope artists never get signed. With my own label I can do what I want, how I want and when I want. To be real, a major would of properly dropped me by now if I was signed as I don’t rush a product and wear what they want me to wear or perform how they want me to perform and say what they want me to say. Especially like now, if I was on say Sony, do you really think I could say majors are a corrupt place to be as an artist?

I also have an interest in putting out music that I feel is good and real to the individual. Right now, I’ve got Sniper Glee, dropping his overly long awaited mixtape in 08 on the label. Also looking to put out a few other artists and projects I am involved in on the label as well such as Liam’s album. Also, with the label, I have the studio as well where I do recording, mixing and mastering for others as well so its basically running non stop.

8. How have you been promoting your music to date and what feedback have you received from the media as well as your listeners?

For a while I wasn’t really promoting my music as I felt I needed to grow more as an artist so I just passed it out to friends who then passed it out to others and so forth. But at the moment it’s a case of shows. Right now I’m doing all of Kashmere’s solo shows with him which is putting my face and name out there a lot more. Done shows with Jehst, Sir Smurf Lil, Sniper Glee, Ugly Ducking, De La Soul, Blade, Rachel Stevens, Hundred Reasons and so many more. So it’s what I’ve been doing mainly until I get the album finished and I feel I am strong enough as an artist to be out there in the full promotion flex. Radio has been a great one for me as well to get reactions to what sort of tracks people like.

9. What’s your view on today’s UK ‘urban’ market?

The scene is buzzing right now more than ever. So many people are now getting a chance to be heard although it is over saturated with bull so the real talent don’t get heard as much. Plus, due to a lot of the violence in the scene in the past years and even currently leaves it with a nasty vibe and generalisation, which is what is damaging it right now. To be honest, I struggle to listen to grime music now as a lot of artists doing it came out with this mad road mentality of murking their own because they lived the other side of the same city as them. Although now, there are a lot more positive artists in the scene, I still have the mind state of what it was before which is hard to escape from. But apart from things like that, it’s doing well and is growing rapidly.

10. Do you think that up & coming artists receive enough support within the UK market?

There is never such thing as enough support, people complain about it and yes it is messed up. But when you look at how little it was in the past, we have come along way. Like back in the 60’s, unless you were signed by a major, no one knew who you were. Now you’ve got people who make the music in their bedroom using there cupboard as a vocal booth getting played on radio and TV with big promotion behind them.

At the same time, what gets promoted is usually just a re-make or an exact duplicate of what is already out there. New things only get promoted if its by a major label who see someone who already has a following and then moulds them slightly different from what is out there to make them appear as a new artist.

11. What’s been the hardest obstacle you’ve had to face and how have you overcome it?

Errrrrrrrm………That would have to be working on Sniper Glee’s mix tape. We actually had it all finished from ages ago but never burnt the sessions with all the separates to dvds. Ended up getting a virus from someone when they came to record and had their instrumentals on their memory key. Ended up corrupting all the files on the studio computer and we had to re-record the whole cd again. But I guess it was all for the best as we dropped tracks from the cd and the re-recordings sounded better so you know. Was a lesson learnt though.

12. What are the most important elements needed to produce a flawless track?

Patience, Persistence, Dedication & Hard work. I will record a song all 9 times before I say it’s finished. As every time I record, I will take it away, for a couple weeks, pick out every flaw I can see in it, and then go back and re-record. Then work out on what I missed and how to improve it further. It’s a lot of time and work to do but it seriously is the way forward.

13. What’s been you’re biggest musical achievement to date?

There are several but I would have to say, things like being a mad Jehst fan and seeing him perform one year, to then be performing with him at the same venue the next year is a massive one for me. Also seeing Jehst’s ‘Mengi Bus’ mixtape in stores after I was recording engineer for a few tracks on it is a major one for me. And just having fans ask for autographs and being really excited about me and my music.

Some of them in the states are like here’s my postal address could I please get an autograph which is kind of freaky. And oh yea, the hot girls asking for sex while I was performing with Kashmere, Jehst & Sir Smurf Lil at IQ’s ‘Live From The Sofa’ launch party. That was a classic one HAHA.

14. What’s on your musical agenda for 2008?

Main thing is to finally get my album sorted and out, I also have a few side projects I’m working on which I would like to get out real soon. Expect loads of collabs as I have been doing that non-stop! Building the engineering skills, handling more business, doing more shows, expanding the label and the artists on it, and so much more.

15. What would you have liked to have achieved 3 years from now?

To have my work available to a larger number of people, and hopefully be able to inspire people to go for their goal like so many artists have done to me.

Shout outs and randomness…

Shouts to Jehst, Sir Smurf, Kashmere, Bampot, Jai, Misfits In Audio, Liam Cottrell, Jess, The whole Lost Boy Productions team, Conspiracy Worldwide, Viper Records, Verb T, Blade, The Guardians, Everyone I have missed, Way too many to name. All the fans keep coming to the shows, the good people at The Scene Magazine, And all the haters especially one who I know will be reading this at some point. Good luck with your failure of a career in music! Watch out for the Organic Sounds Studio myspace for the mixing, mastering & pressing services.

Myspace: www.myspace.com/cbt

Interview by: Nina Carmela

NIKEiD Bespoke Christmas...

With Christmas right around the corner, shopping for those special Christmas gifts you plan to surprise your friends and family with must be daunting thought, especially knowing that you have to do all that walking and spending with other Christmas shoppers causing mayhem and are completely clueless as to what they want to buy.

NikeiD experience is usually reserved for the celebrity elite, but is now open to consumers. Nike iD is the perfect gift for any sports fan and the most fashion minded to own a completely personalized bespoke gift that no one else will have.

The process of creating your own trainers means you can go in store and have a consultation with one of 15 talented Design Consultants. The DC’s each have impeccable design credentials from customizing low ryder bikes, street art, to fashion design, which means that you will be walking out of Nike iD with trainers that have a completely different look to other leading footwear brands out there.

This month, the iD exclusives (trainers that have already been iD’d) will be inspired with colours of the London Underground.

The NIKEiD Studio is located in the core of London’s Nike Town.


Trainers start from as little as £50 and consultations with the design consultants are free. Below, are a few more Christmas gift ideas that will light up a few faces this Christmas.


Words by: Leon B

Nike iD Store Review

Launched on the 1st November at Nike Town. The Nike iD store allows customers to design their own footwear.

In the iD Bar, on the first floor, you’ll be able to try out Nike iD with assistance from a Design Consultant (DC’s), buy Nike iD Exclusives (product that has already been iD’d) and book appointments for the Nike iD Studio on the second floor.

The iD Studio, a private space manned by the Q and her team, hosts four PC stations each manned by a DC whom will facilitate their customers designs, drawing on their passions and creativity in a 45 minute personal consultation.

Once consumers have created their designs in the studio they can be stored in an online ‘locker’ and shared with others online. After ordering, the shoes are individually made and delivered to them, either via the Nike Town store or direct to their homes.

The Nike iD business has more than tripled since 2004 with more than 3 million unique visitors going to www.NikeiD.com every month. As many retailers continue to take their in-store offering online, Nike has seized the opportunity to bring this unique online design experience to the heart of its store and the heart of London’s busiest shopping district. This puts the consumer in control of the design process and extends the NikeiD experience beyond the computer screen where it has lived since its inception in 1999.

Pilot Nike iD spaces have previously opened in Paris, France and Osaka, Japan and the Nike iD London studio follows a similar studio that opened at Nike Town New York in early October.

Consumers are recommended to call the Nike iD concierge service (020 7612 0990) or log onto www.nikeid.com/londonstudio to make an appointment for the second floor studio, but walk-in design sessions can be accommodated on the first floor based upon availability each day.

Each session is scheduled for up to one hour and a Design Consultant will work with consumers throughout each session.

New KING Apparel Online Store

KING Apparel have finally launched their new eagerly awaited online shopping website. Over the next two months the website will be developing piece by piece to bring fans an enjoyable online shopping experience. Available to purchase on the website will be KING Apparels full clothing line including T-Shirts, Hoodies, Knitwear, Denims, Tracksuits, 5950 fitted caps and mens/ladies underwear.

The elite and coveted King Affiliates team continues to grow in presence and stature. 2008 members include British music artists Sway (Best UK Hip Hop artist – BET Awards), Plan B and dubstep producer/DJ Plastician; emerging street artist Edge, with Shaun Witherup and Daniel Clarke heading up the brand new KING affiliates British skate team.

New site link:

www.king-apparel.com

Music and sport stars inspire new generation of Olympic talent

For the first time last night, running and music collided as top Olympic sprinters, Dizzee Rascal and 1000 of the UK’s fastest young runners took part in the Nike+ Supersonic Final in Battersea Park, London.

Jermaine Mays, 24, from Lewisham and Helen Ewing, 28, from Fulham were the fastest male and female runners over the floodlit 1k sprint, which ended in an exclusive gig headlined by Dizzee Rascal and The Enemy for the runners and 2000 of their supporters. This unique initiative, using music to drive speed, has been developed to discover new talent and engage the interest of young runners ahead of the 2012 Olympics.

L-R Harry Aikines Aryeetey, Montell Douglas, Mark Lewis Francis

DJ's at Nike+ Supersonic

‘The event was dark, loud and exciting – so different to normal races,’ said 2008 Olympic-hopeful Jermaine. New Zealander, Helen, explained, ‘I don’t race – I just enjoy running to work every day, so I’m just ecstatic that I won.’

Lending their support to the competitors were Olympic gold medalist Mark Lewis-Francis and the world’s fastest junior runner, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, along with fellow athletes Montell Douglas, Asha Philip, Jemma Simpson and Tim Benjamin.

Dizzee performs live at Nike+ Supersonic

“Anything that gets more people into the idea of competitive running is good for our sport and potentially good for our medal hopes in the future. What’s great about Nike+ Supersonic is using music as the way to take athletics and running to that new audience,” said Mark Lewis Francis.

The runners were selected at three Nike+ Supersonic 100m urban speed trial events held at venues across London, all of which featured motivation from live DJs. The fastest 1,000 won a place in the final with the fastest runners recording times of up to 10.15 seconds.

Rodney P at Nike+ Supersonic

The Enemy performing at Nike+ Supersonic

"Nike is looking to re-define running in the eyes of young Londoners, we want to show that running is not only a brilliant way to keep fit but being a strong runner also benefits whatever sport you are into, whether it's football, basketball or dancing,” said Simon Charlesworth, Nike Running Marketing Manager.

Attendees on the night included:

Dizzee Rascal - Mercury prize winning rapper/producer from London

The Enemy - Indie/rock band from the Midlands

Mark Lewis Francis - Olympic 4 x 100m relay gold medallist 2004

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey - World Junior 100m Champion 2006

Montell Douglas - Female UK sprinter

Asha Philip - Current UK Junior 100m record holder

Jemma Simpson - GB Champion 07 (800m)

Tim Benjamin - Current UK champion (400m)

For further information visit: http://www.myspace.com/nikesupersonic

Want Respect? Use a Condom fever at the Urban Music Awards

Want Respect? Use a Condom supported the Urban Music Awards this year by sponsoring the ‘Best Drum & Bass DJ/Act’.

Want Respect? Use a Condom Ambassador and E4 presenter, Zezi Ifore, presented winner Shy FX with the award who beat off tough competition from Bailey, Fabio & Grooverider and Roni Size.

Behind the scenes presenters, DJ’s and artists showed their support for the Want Respect? Use a Condom campaign by wearing sweatbands emblazoned with the logo. These included host Teri Walker; ‘Best Underground DJ’ Cameo; ‘Best Newcomer’ Mr Midas; Dappy from N-Dubz, Kiss FM’s Melvin and Rickie and even ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ winner Gabrielle.

The sweatbands represent self respect, respect within relationships and safer sex. It’s about respecting yourself enough to protect against unplanned pregnancies and STI’s.

The winners and attendees for the 5th annual Kickers urban Music Awards are;

Outstanding Achievement Award
Gabrielle

Best Garage Act
N-Dubz

Best Newcomer sponsored by FOOT LOCKER
Mr. Midas

Best Unsigned Act sponsored by LOOT
U.F.O

Best Underground DJ
Cameo

Best Producer sponsored by M.A.C
DaVinChe

Kiss FM’s Melvin and Rickie with Want Respect? Use a Condom Ambassador Zezi Ifore

Winner of the ‘Best Drum & Bass DJ/Act’ - Shy FX with Want Respect? Use a Condom Ambassador Zezi Ifore

Host - Teri Walker

Bushkin and Mighty Moe from The Heartless Crew

Akala

Damien O’Brien

Others winners include:

Best Reggae Act sponsored by Cotton’s Restaurant
Sean Paul

Best Radio Station sponsored by Tuborg Beer
Choice fm

Best Jazz Act sponsored by Woodhams Florist Group
Courtney Pine O.B.E

Best Club Night sponsored by Kickers
Twice As Nice

Best Neo Soul Act sponsored by Lastminute.com
Nate James

Best Drum & Bass Act/DJ sponsored by Want Respect
Shy FX

Best Gospel Act sponsored by Kickers
Raymond & Co

Best Independent Label sponsored by Kickers
Big Dadda Recordings

Best UK Radio DJ sponsored by Kickers
Dj 279

Best Album sponsored by Reddmango
Lemar ‘Truth about Love’ (Acceptance speech available)

Best TV Show sponsored by FUDGE
Popworld

Best R&B Act sponsored by Red mango
Nathan

Best HipHop Act sponsored by The Urban Shop
Wiley

Best Magazine sponsored by OK Performance Drive
Young Voices

Most Inspiring Act sponsored by Kickers
Dizzee Rascal

Best Website sponsored by Lastminute.com
Myspace.com

Best Crossover Chart Act sponsored by Sonetti
Just Jack

Best Music Video sponsored by Kickers
Natalie Williams ‘This Girl’

Best Entrepreneur sponsored by Kickers
Tim Campbell

Lifetime Achievement Award
UB40

for more info check out: www.myspace.com/wantrespect

The Scene Magazine Interviews: Jay D Will

The Scene Magazine caught up with Photographer Jay D Will to get the low down on his work and future projects. Hailing from South West London, Jay graduated from university this year achieving a 1st class degree. Currently, he has been doing alot of freelance work for UK magazines, underground music artists, designers and make up artists.

Read on to find out more about the photographer whose personal aim is to breakout out globally from NYC to Japan!

1. How long have you been involved in photography for?

It's been about nine years now, before that I was into music production, fine art painting and illustration/graphic design.

2. Why did you decide to become a photographer?

I would say various Hip Hop artist album covers from 1996. I remember when I brought Busta Rhymes first album 'The Coming', the photography was crazy, the photographer Dean Karr totally captured Busta's soul and personality in every image...Also in the same year Naz's 'It Was Written' album cover, with the double exposed faced over a street in Queens New York.

Old source magazine also played a part...but what set the peddle in motion for me, was when I first entered a darkroom at college...I learnt how to process black & white films and develop pictures. The darkroom was a beautiful place where I bring my visual ideas to life, in way drawing and painting couldn't.

3. Who/What inspires your work and why?

I watch a lot of black cinema and Japan/Korean film/Anime (If you can checkout Cyber City, Old Boy, Once Upon a Time in High School, Legend Of The Seven Cutter)...I'm also a huge fan of the late great Pop artist's such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Hip Hop from the 90's has played a huge role, followed with the culture scene which comes with it. Music is my source of creative fuel. Bristsh documentary photographer Tom Stoddarts work has also hugely inspired me.

4. What makes your work unique to the rest?

I would say possibly my creative eye for unseen detail...What I mean by this is, through my camera lens I am able to view the world in my own personal way and capture it...It's is said that beauty is in the eyes of it's beholder, this applies to me in so many other ways, in regards to how I view the world as photographer...I truly believe I see and capture things, which most people don't see behind the camera...It all about capturing the and substance of my subject.

5. What does the word ‘style’ mean to you?

Hmm...Good question! I believe the term 'style' is something transparent, fluid and completely boundless, which can swiftly changes like weather, lol. To me it means personal identity/entity/character, which can often personified it self to become something spectacular.. It's ones personal out take on life reflected!

6. Describe you philosophy about the art of fashion?

My thought process on this is quit simple. I call it birth/Rebirth, it amazes me how a new style of fashion be created, then die out like a flower, but then leave seeds of new possibility and creativity...Or even you can have old fashion trend which dies out, then somewhere in the near future have a sudden rebirth of life. That for me is the beautiful art of fashion...This my not make sense, but for me it is what it is!

7. Any new projects lined up for 2007?

I'm working on some Fashion/fine art pieces which I hope to get both exhibited and published... Your just going to have to wait and see...

8. In your eyes what makes a good portfolio?

Hmm...I would say one which contains which vivid and memorable, I would as say one which contain image which connected well to make story theme...For me it has to reflect the artist personal out-take, personality and creativity

9. How do you feel about giving all your creativity to the world?

For me it means everything, the art of what I do is share visually without any words need...I mean those before me inspired me to do what I do what. My aim is to do the same and be a positive role model and a well established photographer. Children of today need inspiration more than ever right now. Through my work, I wont the world to see what i see through me eyes, and enjoy the ride!

Interview by: Leon B

The Scene Magazine Interviews: DJ Smallz

Best known for his SOUTHERN SMOKE street brand, DJ Smallz has played a monumental role in catapulting major and independent Southern artists to the attention of national and international markets. The Southern Smoke brand has been co-signed by some of the biggest names in the music industry, and to date, DJ Smallz has collaborated with such established figures as Grammy Award-winner Big Boi of Outkast, southern hip hop pioneers UGK, Master P and Three 6 Mafia, as well as multi-platinum superstars Lil’ Jon, Ludacris and T.I.

The Scene Magazine caught up with DJ Smallz to see how things are going....

1. What's happening and how are things going with you at the moment?

Just got off the road from the first annual Southern Smoke College Tour and in between stops I've been working on finishing up the Southern Smoke album as well as shopping beats I produced to various record labels and artists.

2. With the American South side Hip Hop scene now in its prime, how do feel about the amount of exposure it has been getting around the world?

It's really been wonderful. I've played a major role in this, so I'm just blessed to be apart of this whole situation.

3. With your 'Southern Smoke College Tour' now under way, what the reaction been like on the streets?

The first annual "Southern Smoke College Tour" is amazing. We're hitting up 9 major homecomings throughout the South, primarily in Florida and we are adding on more dates as we speak. It's the first street brand with its own tour, and its been in the planning stages for the last 9 months. We are breaking artists on every tour date!

Gorilla Zoe (Block Ent/Bad Boy) & Flo-Rida (Poe Boy/Atlantic) are the headlining acts this year, and it's hosted by Delicious & Tango (of "Flavor of Love" & "I Love NY" on VH1) as well as the cast of "College Hill" from BET last season. For tour dates and venues check out DjSmallz.com.

4. Where has been your favourite place to perform in the US and why?

Surprisingly Colorado. The fans are really great and they love that Southern Smoke. I've been there quite a few times now and have enjoyed it very much.

5. What do you think of the UK hip hop scene right now?

It's definitely on the come up right now.

6. What's been your biggest achievement so far this year?

Aside from the awards and honors, my biggest achievement has been djing in 4 countries overseas the past year in countries such as Canada, Japan, Germany & Switzerland. It’s really great to see how big the southern smoke brand really is and get in touch with my fans
overseas.

7. You have worked with some of the biggest names in Hip Hop, which artists have you enjoyed working with the most and why?

The Southern Smoke series began as a demo CD to get me into the local club circuit. Volume one wasn't hosted by any one, but the first major host though was on volume 6 with Uncle Luke of the 2 Live Crew. Uncle Luke is a legend and the reason why albums today carry the parental advisory sticker - he fought for his lyrics! He never hosted a mixtape before and I got him out to do it and he never did another one. I've got a lot of history with my hosts. T.I. and C-MurderPimp C of UGK got out of jail, I was the only CD he hosted. Master P never hosted anyone's either except for Southern Smoke as well.

8. Being a well known music artist, how important is image to you?

Image is everything. The SOUTHERN SMOKE brand is the biggest brand in the streets down south. We help record labels in the industry break new artists and music along with any other street promotion through radio, tv and print media.

9. What do you think of the influx of new talent gracing the hip hop scene?

I'm known in the industry for never being afraid to break new artists and music especially that of the south. I love the new talent coming up like Plies, Gucci Mane, Gorilla Zoe and others.

10. Where would you like to be in 5 years time?

To rule the world honestly.

11. Any shout outs?

Expect the unexpected!!! (Laughing)... Look out for the "Southern Smoke College Tour" this fall... as well as "Southern Smoke TV" with QD3 (creator of the "Beef" series" at the top of the year... and of course the "Southern Smoke" album summer of 2008, with the first single featuring your favorite rappers leaking very soon. Also be on the lookout for my production game... I'm shopping beats to a lot of major artists from Ludacris to Young Dro... so be on the lookout for that as well.

Don't forget to check out the official website DJSmallz.com. I love breaking new artists and new music. If you need a CD Hosted hosted or you need me to DJ your party or event, please send me a message through DJSmallz.com. Big shout to RepDaScene UK for holding me down always!!!

Interview by: Leon B
Thanks to: Danielle Fear

Kelly Rowland at Nike+ Supersonic Speed Trials

On Friday night (26 Oct), Destiny's Child star Kelly Rowland joined athletes and young runners from across the capital at Crystal Palace, London, for the Nike+ Supersonic Speed Trial. At a night of music fuelled speed, Kelly ran with and cheered on as young runners raced 100m to win a ticket to the Nike+ Supersonic final for themselves and two friends plus a £200 Nike+ race pack. Seeing one of the world hottest music performers ready to out run you ain't a common sight in the world of athletics!

On the night of 17 November 2007 at a secret London venue, London's fastest 1,000 will sprint a floodlit 1K course, cheered on by 2,000 of their mates, ending with an invite-only gig headlined by Dizzee Rascal and some of the UK's biggest names in music.

The third and final speed trial will be taking place at Peninsula Square at the O2 on Friday 2nd November from 6pm

For more information go to: www.myspace.com/nikesupersonic

One To Watch: Nimmo & The Gauntletts

Acts such as KT Tunstall, Bloc Party, Editors and The Kaisers Chiefs have been keeping the popular Indie music scene alive and kicking with tunes that are memorable and is still on rotation today. With the influx of new talent, there are still loads of eagerly awaiting new acts just waiting to penetrate the music industry to show avid fans their contribution to the popular music genre.

With each act trying to differentiate each other musically, the acoustic genre still needs to make a landmark in the music scene. Hopefully, new musical talents Sarah Nimmo and Reva Gauntlett also known as ‘Nimmo and the Gauntletts’ can hopefully make that statement and raise the popularity of acoustic music.

The Scene Magazine caught up with 2 hopefuls to find out more about their music, new album, plans for the future and how they are planning to make an entrance in the music scene.

1. Where does the name Nimmo and the Gauntletts come from?

Sarah: The name is taken from our second names- Sarah Nimmo and Reva Gauntlett. At the time we thought of it, having 'and the' in the name wasn't as common but more and more bands are doing it now.
Reva: Oh, and the 's' on 'Gauntletts' just felt better plural.

2. So girls, how's the music going? Are you excited about touring?

Sarah: Ahh, the music's going very well thanks. There's just so much to write and sing about and so many melodies, ideas and styles that it's all just a matter of fitting it all in.
Reva: Yeah, especially alongside studying. We're writing new stuff all the time which we need to put together and record and get it out there but sort of seems like we'll be writing forever and still have more to say. We are having a break from touring soon to write some new stuff on those weekends before beginning a tour of the UK. Really looking forward to it- should be very interesting to see the response we get.
Sarah: Yeah, I can't wait.

3. Since entering the scene, do you think that acoustic music is getting the right amount of exposure it deserves?

Reva: Yes, but I think that it's very categorized. The stereotype for acoustic music is something really different from our style of writing. You immediately think of really calm, folky songs and it seems as if acoustic music is not something that can be hyped and danced to too much. I feel some of our songs really disregard that confinement.
Sarah: Yeah, when we started writing together, being young and acoustic and being successful was something quite exclusive, and we had a break from electric guitar to do something relatively new. However, now the acoustic scene has completely blown up and has become the 'new thing to do' with artists like Laura Marling and Thom Stone being so successful, which is really strange as we never saw that coming.

4. How would you describe your style of music?

Reva: Wow, I think that this always becomes the hardest question to answer. Should be so simple...
Sarah: I think that's because it varies with your mood and situation
Reva: Yeah exactly. I always realise that it's quite romantic which makes me laugh
Sarah: Also, we have phases of what we listen to which obviously influences us at the time. I just advise everyone to listen.. then decide!

5. Unlike a lot of other UK Indie acts, you have a more laid back sound and approach to making music. Is it important to you to retain your style sound rather than adopt a whole new sound?

Sarah: Yeah, completely. We are always worried that the fact that our music isn't conceited or contrived people will make people listen to not as much. It feels you have to be these days.

Reva: I agree. It's due to the fact that we're looking around and people who seem cloned are all succeeding, and, of course, there are times when you feel like you must be doing it wrong. But that soon stops because we couldn't do it any other way. The manufactured thing just wouldn’t work and wouldn’t feel right. I think that’s a big difference between those who can and can't play live..

6. So are you more happy when your playing live or in the recording studio?

Reva: That’s what I mean! definitely live. There’s no comparison. It's the only way you can understand what we're about.
Sarah: Yeah, that’s when I really remember why I love playing music so much. Giving our music to those watching is the best part. We're so much better live than the recordings, definitely beats sitting in a recording studio.
Reva: Yeah, I find it so intriguing what people get from it.

7. OK, What separates your music from other acoustic acts?

Sarah: There are not many female duets around. I also feel we have a presence that many acts don't. Myspace can be so deceiving, if a band has a good recording, they can become so successful- their quality of music live and presence isn’t considered.
Reva: Yeah, I hate the fact it has to be like that. To record is just to leap the music up on Myspace, but what we really write for is the music live. I feel the music gives- the fact that we're standing when we playing and interacting more like an electric band would- a completely different vibe. Also the energy plays a big part.

8. Out of all the songs you have recorded, which song would you say is you’re favourite and why?

Reva: Probably ‘Mi Amor’ or ‘Untitled.’ The best recorded anyway.
Sarah: Yeah, 'Untitled For my Darlings' I think. It just brings so many memories when playing it.

9. Do you have a debut album in the works, if so, what are we going to expect from it?

Sarah: Yes we do. We're currently thinking of that and think it will be structured very differently without giving too much away..
It'll probably be a collection of new songs and maybe a couple that have been knocking about for a while
Reva: Songs reflecting the ‘‘peeny’’ years. Yeah, that should be happening soon...with some collaborations too. Oh, and we're currently compiling and finishing a live album to go out...should be fun.

10. Any shout outs?

Teah...The Famo! Also: J, Em and Jess. Oh and the honorable 3rd Earl of Kent. Cheers. x

Myspace: www.myspace.com/nimmoandthegauntlettsuk

Interview by: Leon B

Video footage of Nike+ Supersonic

Dizzee Rascal appears at Nike+ Supersonic Speed Trial 1 of 4

Nike+ Supersonic Speed Trial 1 of 4

For more information on the trials or to pre-register visit:

www.myspace.com/nikesupersonic

Nike+ Supersonic and Dizzee Rascal

The first Nike+ Supersonic speed trial which took place on Friday 12.10.07 at Finsbury Park, London began in style with a head turning entrance from Dizzee Rascal arriving in the Supersonic Lamborghini. Dizzee was at the event as an ambassador for Supersonic, took time out to speak to the crowd and even took part in the speed trials as seen below warming up for the competition!

Nike athletes Simeon Williams, Asha Philip and Perri Shakes-Drayton were also on hand to show us and other competitors how it’s done.

Well, we all know that Dizzee can make an entrance.

There are now 3 speed trials left to go. To take part in trial 2, it will commence on Friday 26 October 2007 at Crystal Palace from 6pm.

Full address below:

Crystal Palace Park, Ledrington Road, London, SE19 2BB.

www.myspace.com/nikesupersonic

Special Feature: King Apparel Winter Collection

After the summer seasons bright new designs, this winter, we will probably see a more relaxed approach to dressing with a range of new styles. While you were fascinating your friends over the summer about what’s hot and what’s not, KING Apparel have now launched their new 2007 winter collection, already adding to their collection of previous successful lines. KING is ready to show fashion followers what’s new this winter!

The inventive clothing brand is continuing to stand by their well known slogan ‘Reign Supreme’, with their new line bringing a fresh new look this winter with their Deluxe Range, Flight Range, Defy Range, Covert Range, Explorer Range, Prestige Range, Patrol Range, Ethics Range and Krest Range. The new line definitely has that equipoise of style that everyone looks for in fashion, this winters new collection is something that the youth of today will relish and will make a statement to themselves and others that they know what style is.

The new collection still captures the ‘Urban’ look and the range still has those identifiable qualities; Simple, Effective and Street. KING’s new Explorer knit hoodie (below) is a prime example of clothing that symbolises street and is a garment that is effective and easy on the eye. The new collection also includes a new range of caps (below) endorsed by New Era and is branded with KING’s logo. With the collection again being endorsed by popular UK talent such as Plan B, Wretch 32 (left) and skater Shaun Witherup, KING Apparel is continuing to make a big impression in the world of fashion.

As stated in a recent interview, KING Apparel is keeping up with their target audience by designing clothes which represent today’s urban look. The brand still attracts those audiences who show high interest in the skateboarding scene and is actively involved in London’s youth culture. With KING Apparel’s winter collection now in stores, the brand still remains very positive about being a driving force in today’s urban clothing industry.

Now that other urban brands are beginning to penetrate the market, KING may face stiff competition with brands also dropping their winter collection including Zoo York Clothing, Dephect, To Die for Clothing and Fenchurch Clothing. Those who are making plans to shop for this winters essentials, will be happy to know that the KING Apparel’s winter collection can still be purchased online through urbanvenom.com and can also be found in popular stockists such as Modo Streetwear, Sneaker Life, Hype and Spotrusherz.

This season, there is a cultivated mix that fans will adhere to. Pieces that I already favour from the collection are their knitwear hoodie and the cotton canvas jacket to the denims. The pieces feature heavily detailed embroideries comprised of thousands of stitches. Coupled with the heavyweight cut and sew t-shirts with full colour chest prints, which definitely represent a benchmark in street wear high fashion.

With KING Apparel’s successful collections, this demonstrates that the brand is fully in tune with what’s happening in the streets and are giving their followers what they want and when they want. With prices that do not aim to empty your bank balance, KING Apparel is the definition of affordable street wear that everyone will enjoy.

Pieces to look out for will be the Prestige Range. The ‘Lion Head’ logo runs throughout the range surrounded with elaborate embroidered embellishments in maroon and our signature Cyan Blue. Cut and sew crews, t-shirts, caps, beanies and denim again match seamlessly with the introduction of our first boiled wool Varsity jacket to add the icing on top of the cake.

The Ethics Range is a strong addition to the KING stable. The collection offers the first fully reversible all over ‘Cracks’ print hoodie. Available in White/Purple and Black/Yellow combinations, the reverse features clean block colours, with felt flocking chest detailing. Drawing on the ‘underground’ ethos that has been the lynchpin of the KING brand since day dot, the theme continues with the matching embroidered caps and the soon to be classic ‘strictly underground’ felt flocking t-shirts.

While others think “style is not that important in this cold season”, you can now change that thought process and reveal what style is this winter

Words By: Leon Beck

One To Watch: Kanye Rose

During the Kriss Kross phase back in 1992 Kayne (pronounced ‘Kane’) Rose thought himself to be a rapper, but it wasn’t until 1994 when he first saw the music video ‘Back and Forth’ by Aaliyah that his musical preference changed. And although he was only 7 years of age at the time, this didn’t discourage his interior motives.

Being the Godson to singer/songwriter Alex Party, who’s known for the club classic ‘Don’t Give Me Your Life’, it’s not surprising that family inspirations motivated his musical interests. Kayne began to develop his skills with the help of vocal tuition which included genres such as Opera, R&B and Rock, and whilst he spent years perfecting his craft it wasn’t until he left secondary school that he started to approach his chosen ambition with a professional status.

Having influences from the likes of Beyonce, Lauryn Hill and Brandy for 3 elements in music, this being a performer, lyricist and harmonic, Kayne now 20 years old has studied different sounds that will inflict the passion, lyrical content and flow of his own musical persona. He also makes a point of not listening to male vocalists as he doesn’t want it to reflect his own original sound, a sound which still caters commercialised R&B which will no doubt delegate a career within the mainstream sector, and proclaim longevity and success.

During this artist development, Kayne Rose has now a 1st BA Hons Degree, and yet whilst studying he’s still manage to bless audiences with his live performances at the likes of Ministry Of Sound, Sin City, Ravefest, CC Club, UK Unsigned and the Roar showcase to name a few. Now having completed his studies Kayne is currently working on his first musical project and will be releasing the debut single ‘Why’ featuring Tex in September 07.

Kayne Rose is ready to represent his extraordinary talent across the globe, and with his intellectual state of mind he’s already succeeded an incomparable musical venture before he’s even started.

Myspace: www.myspace.com/kaynerose

Words by: Nina Carmela

Channel U: The Future Of UK Urban Music?

UK Hip Hop is beginning to grow at a rapid pace because of the genres unique mix of sounds that everyone can adapt to. Overall, Hip Hop is beginning to embrace people to the point where everyone now wants to become the ‘next big rapper’ to hit the scene. Crossing over to the UK shores, it seems as though UK Hip Hop has its own big conservatoire for everyone to go and learn the art form.

The Beginning of An Era

Channel U has helped launch the careers of Roll Deep, NDubz, DJ Luck and MC Neat, Nathan and many more. The popular music station has now become the biggest urban channel in the UK with the largest urban playlist in Europe, with the raw cutting edge of the UK urban music scene. The art of UK Hip Hop is transcending to a whole new level meaning that it’s becoming more appealing to those audiences who never gave UK Hip Hop a chance to rise. What keeps my ears glued to the radio or my eyes fixated to the TV screen is the influx of new UK Hip Hop talent that is beginning to shine through. For example, new talent such as NY, Tinnie Tempah, Fire Camp, Nathan and Nu Brand Flexxx has paved the way for more aspiring UK artists to show avid fans out there that the UK Hip Hop scene is still growing and gaining momentum.

As everyone knows, “real” Hip Hop artists are those individuals who can show lyrical skills by oscillating in and out of beats that’s thrown their way, as this shows how diverse a rapper can be. The art of Hip Hop is also about being able to tell a story through a unique expression of words. While the UK is still at the growth stage of Hip Hop, watching Channel U opens your eyes to a vast amount of hidden talent that the UK has to offer. When Channel U first embraced our TV screens, acts such as Dizzee Rascal, Heartless Crew, So Solid Crew, Raghav and More Fire Crew gave us a prime example of how home-grown talent can actually stretch the boundaries and create another popular music genre other than pop that the UK tends to favour.

Opinions Anyone?

Asking viewers what they thought of Channel U as a music channel representing urban music, most people thought that the channel enables those talented individuals an opportunity to be heard and the quality of the videos that are shown on the station are getting better; while on the other hand, some viewers thought that there needs to be more of a positive message in certain music videos shown on the station. Everyone has their own opinions about the rise of UK Hip Hop and Grime, even government officials; such as Tory leader David Cameron is a bit pessimistic towards Hip Hop in general, but this will not stop popular art form from gaining popularity anytime soon! People may say that most Hip Hop tracks tends to be negative, but in the artists eyes they are telling a story of how they lived and how they grew up, so to avid fans, they are telling a story through a unique expression of words.

While Channel U is one of the top favourites for UK “urban” music, most UK artists want to remain on the underground because they feel that going commercial does not enable them to show their true potential as certain label execs dictate what artists can release and what they cannot release. Heading over to the US, acts such as ‘Immortal Technique’ is a good example of an underground artist who freely expresses how he feels. A lot of his lyrics focus on political issues and events happening around the world, though he has the potential to do very well commercially, Some people feel that he appeals to much more of a niche audience who feel that they need a Hip Hop figure who speaks the truth about certain issues.

Channel U: The Success of UK Urban Music?

To further help the rise and success of UK urban music, on September 17th Channel U will be releasing a compilation album featuring tracks from Wiley, Firecamp, Frontlinerz, Tinnie Tempah and many other artists that have appeared on the station. 'Channel U: Soundz of the Streetz’ includes the most popular tracks from the channel meaning that fans get to hear the tunes they know and love over and over again!. This album is showcasing some of the best talent in the underground scene in a big way.

Prominent figures in the UK Hip Hop industry have given the artists of today the platform to do what they are doing now and that’s keeping the UK Hip Hop scene alive and in focus. To some, UK Hip Hop as they say is ‘not happening’ and they justify this statement by the ‘evident’ fall of record sales, rise of downloads and the rise of mediocre songs that’s hitting the airwaves. But we still have artists who are staying true to the game whether they are going commercial or on remaining on the underground.

Channel U has changed since it first came on air; from only showing a few home-grown, homemade videos to a TV channel that showcases the best urban talent taken from here and the US and is well respected and a massive contender to MTV Base.

Words by: Leon B

One To Watch: Jeeday Jawz

Hailing from North London is one of the most grimesational MC’s steadily rising through the UK music scene, and with his metaphoric ‘Jawz’ there will be no stopping this artist from doing what he does best, music.

Jeeday Jawz began to pursue his ambitions in music with UK garage collective Menace 2 Society at the age of 17, which led him into participating in regular sets on London’s leading radio stations, Mystik and Heat FM. As well as working with his crew, Jeeday released an 8 track promo CD presented by Menace 2 Society. It wasn’t long before the collective gained a large following and started to perform at events across London.

These events to date included venues such as Eros, Fabric, Stratford Circus, West Indian Culture Centre, Brixton Max, Aquarium, Edmonton Green Towers, Play Bar, OH! Bar, The N1 Centre and performances at the Respect Festival, Hertfordshire University and The Queen Mary University to name a few.

Unfortunately, after a year or so of raising the crews profile they decided to depart and go their separate ways, but Jeeday Jawz and former M2S member Hammer continued to represent themselves as Menace 2 Society on AXE FM for a further 6 months before concentrating on solo projects.

Having inspirations from the likes of Puff Daddy, Busta Rhymes and Redman, its not surprising how diverse Jeeday Jawz’ musical craft is. His inspirations have also developed from authors CS Lewis and JR Tolkien, where Jeeday explains that the stories of different realms fascinated and encouraged him into using the authors technique of taking the audience into different worlds, a different state of mind.

“…These influences encourage me to take the listener into a completely different world at times. As I got into my teens I obviously became more involved and familiar with street life in London (North London to be exact), so the ghetto that surrounds me is without a doubt one of my hugest influences. As well as all the experiences I’ve had on the roads, I will also illustrate other peoples situations through my music. But I don’t let it just stop there, as I realise there is so much more 2 life (and a world much bigger) than the “HOOD”, so I keep it moving when it comes 2 concepts for songs.” Jeeday Jawz

During this time of expanding his musical development, UKHH artist and cousin Biggz was Jeeday’s mentor and would take him to the studio of Allience Records and collaborate in recordings. This gave him an opportunity to explore the natures of music establishments and study his chosen ambition before jumping onto the bandwagon of the Grime scene, not wanting to be just another MC.

“…My first name is a Nigerian name: JIDE (but you pronounce it “JEEDAY”). When I was younger and throughout my life, people could never really seem to pronounce my name correctly and would call me anything but JIDE (e.g. DEJI, DEEJAY, JAY-DEE, JUDI etc…), so I decided to make my stage name my JIDE (But spell it Phonetically, hence “JEEDAY” so If I DO blow, then NO ONE can ever get my name wrong. The JAWZ was just there for alliteration and can be taken as a metaphor of Eating MC’s with my jaws or JAWZ the film, in the sense that I am a SHARK that is feared by others in the Ocean of industry guys.” Jeeday Jawz

Jeeday began to collect up all this knowledge he gained and started to put together his own projects. The first official mixtape, ‘SK Vibemakers Presents…Shark Infested Flow Vol 1’, was released this year as a free online download which includes work with Sway, Faith SFX, Terror Danjah, Mr Chib, Mikkel Morris and Hammer. With his comical verses and versatile lyrical content of tales, experiences and witty sketches, this first release had received 5,000 hits within less than 2 months.

“…VERY WITTY, can be comical at times, but the comedy is not to be taken in the sense that I am just a gimmick MC. Just listen and one can hear the amazing flows and content from this fantastic lyricist. I tend to think of myself as the MC with the MOST versatile amount of flows in the whole UK seen. My music is so versatile and 3 dimensional that listeners are taken into a different world once they lend me ears. So I keep it very conceptual in order to maintain this cutting edge excitement in my music. Always willing to experiment in other genres of music, but originally I emerge from the Grime scene and will continue to stay true to it. Grime is our version of HIP-HOP. We are in the stages of when HIP-HOP first begun in the Bronx- The London stages.” Jeeday Jawz

Now having gained the recognition of talent and respect of being a dimensional artist, Jeeday Jawz continues to represent his musical repertoire in preparation of a phenomenal venture ahead of him.

www.myspace.com/jeedayjawz

Word By: Nina Carmela

Gym Class Heroes Live: Review

I must admit on entering the Carling Academy I had to ask myself what exactly it was I was doing there. Not the usual crowd I’m used to, I looked around and had to prepare myself for the evening ahead.

Just after nine, the American band ‘Gym Class Heroes’ from Geneva, New York took centre stage sending the audience into uproar. I couldn’t decide what category to put them in, were they Rock, slightly Hip-Hop or could I even feel a slight Reggae vibe creeping in there? It was soon clear that this band could not be labelled, throughout the night it was obvious that their music style crossed over all genres, with Damian Marley’s ‘Welcome to Jamrock’ intro thrown into the mix.

Gym Class Heroes performed ‘Cupid’s Chokehold’ their cover version of Supertramp’s hit, ‘Take a look at my Girlfriend’ which I found myself reluctantly nodding along to. ‘Shoot Down the Stars’ another track performed on the night taken from their album ‘As Cruel As School Children’ had more of a Hip-Hop feel which got the audience going once more.

With Travis and his sultry tones driving the ladies wild it was time for the ‘Myspace’ song as I like to call it, ‘New Friends Request’, this was one of their more chilled out tunes, which instantly had you swaying to the beat.

Before I knew it, it was time for the last song of the night ‘The Queen and I’ which went down a treat and was by far the fans favourite choice of the evening. Judging by the crowds’ reaction the one hour set was just not enough. I left feeling pleasantly surprised and anticipate their next release.

Check out their Myspace page: www.myspace.com/gymclassheroes

Words By: Chantelle Azille

One To Watch: Danny Ryder

As a general hobby turned into a professional insight, Danny Ryder’s musical career pursuit began when Taste FM radio took an interest in his talent when he was 17. From then onwards, he became a hit with the stations listeners and had a regular slot with Lady Masser. In 2003, his collective Da Southside Squad had four weekly slots and three weekly residencies at local nightclubs. Sets include Sound, Cynthias, Hypodrome and The Works, alongside acts such as So Solid Crew, Heartless Crew, EZ and DJ Masterstepz.

That same year Da Southside Squad decided to go solo and it wasn’t long before this new born in dependency led Danny into the Twice As Nice battle of MC’s on Channel 4. Although he was a runner up, the publicity which included a feature in the UK’s number one music magazine RWD was overwhelming and he soon became promoter’s favourite for bookings. Danny later collaborated with UK Garage collective, Y-Tribe, and recorded the single ‘The Way We Roll’ which was released through Northwest Records.

Whilst the musical recognition was on a high, Danny Ryder took a year out for musical studies to expand his knowledge in music business. Whilst in college Danny met Little C and later released the ‘Cold As Ice’ mixtape under the name of CnR. In 2005 they joined musical forces with producer Composure who worked for Goldseal Records and within months formed a collective called Undawurld along with another MC, Foulmouth Verses and released their first mixtape, ‘The 1st Instalment’.

Danny Ryder aka DBR still continued to pursue his solo projects and in 2006 he won a competition with Live Recordings in Lewisham and recorded an indent for MTV Base. The same year DBR released his ‘True Stories’ mixtape and promoted this project at Mindie Management’s launch party, Nottinghill’s YoYo nightclub and various clubs across Leeds.

Towards the end of 06, Danny started promotion on his forthcoming mixtape, ‘I Know Gurlz’, with the release’s of ‘Chicks N Whips’ and ‘Networking PT1’. Whilst his myspace page has kept him busy along with DJ audio requests, further promotion has included ring tones with UK Street Sounds along with the ‘new artist feature’ in TOUCH magazine, and the DJ League European Promotion Pool has featured ‘Networking PT 1’ on their compilation CD which is currently being distributed with GROOVE Magazine in Italy.

DBR is currently working on his solo album, ‘Dis Boyz Real’, and has further projects releasing with Undawurld late this year. With the help of sponsorship behind him, New Era, Nels Clothing and Mash Town, and the launch of Danny’s UK United clothing line there’s no doubt that this fine aptitude is heading towards a phenomenal musical venture.

Myspace: www.myspace.com/dannyryder

Chlamydia – The Facts

Contracting a sexual transmitted infection and not knowing where you contracted it from is a serious issue and a cause for concern. At least one in ten young people have Chlamydia and many don’t show any symptoms of having the infection. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems.

Clinics around your local area should offer information and advice on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception to young people, as well as giving out free condoms. Take note of the facts below and stay safe.

· In 2006, 99,230 (note the 113,585 is the UK figure not the England only figure) cases of chlamydia were diagnosed in England , an increase of 27% between 2002 and 2006

· 1 in 10 sexually active young people have chlamydia

· The majority of chlamydia diagnoses are in the 16-24 year age group

· Chlamydia is easy to treat once detected, however at least 70 per cent of women and 50 per cent of men, display no symptoms and so are unaware of their infection.

· In untreated women, infection can lead to serious conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. If left untreated, there is evidence to suggest that chlamydia may affect men's fertility as well.
The Scene Magazine in collaboration with 'Want Respect?, Use A Condom Campaign'.

Check out their Myspace at: www.myspace.com/wantrespect

www.condomessentialwear.co.uk

Health Protection Agency (HPA): 9 Sexual Health Facts and Figures

In support of 'Want Respect?', The Scene Magazine has another daily dose of facts and figures for you all to read and take note!

According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the numbers of new diagnoses at genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics in England between 2005 - 2006 show:

· An overall rise in the number of new diagnoses seen in GUM clinics of 2% in 2005 compared to 2006 (from 714,647 in 2005 to 730,324 in 2006)

· Genital chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed STI in GUM clinics with an increase in diagnoses of 3% from 95,930 in 2005 to 99,230 in 2006.

· Warts are the second most common STI with an increase in diagnoses of 3% from 68,701 in 2005 to 70,988 in 2006. The largest increases were seen in the under 16s, 16 – 19s and over 45s.

· Total diagnoses of first episodes of genital herpes increased by 10% (17,618 in 2005 to 19,988 in 2006). The largest increase was seen in women aged 16 – 19 (19.7%)


· Total diagnoses of syphilis decreased by 2% from 2,574 in 2005 to 2,515 in 2006.

· Total diagnoses of gonorrhoea decreased by 1% from 17,702 in 2005 to 17, 445 in 2006. This came on top of a 14% decrease in 2005

· The cumulative total of HIV diagnoses in the UK is 86,783 people since surveillance began in 1982. In 2006, a total of 6,642 new cases of HIV were diagnosed. (HPA HIV New Diagnoses Quarterly surveillance tables UK data March 2007)

www.condomessentialwear.co.uk

Sexual Health Week: 10 facts relating to teenagers, condom use and STI’s

‘In support of the Want Respect? Use a condom campaign The Scene magazine will be putting up daily facts and figures relating to teenagers, STI's and condom use.

Sex: The Facts -In association with 'Want Respect? Use a Condom':

1. If you're ready for sex, make sure you use a condom. Respect yourself – it is your right to insist on using a condom

2. One in 10 teenagers use condoms plus another form of contraception


3. Three out of four teenage mothers say their pregnancies were unintended

4. Half a million UK teens have had an STI – double the amount 10 years ago

5. 70% of cases of Chlamydia in girls have no symptoms. If undetected this can lead to infertility
6. One in 10 sexually active young people has Chlamydia

7. Chlamydia and the Genital Warts virus are two of the most common STIs in teenagers

8. Sex and alcohol don't mix: teenagers are twice as likely to have unprotected sex after drinking alcohol

9. Of 15 to 19 year olds who have had sex with someone they knew for less than one day, 61% of females and 48% of males gave alcohol or drugs as the reason!

10. Despite what your friends might say most young people don’t have sex until they are over 16

For more information on condoms, sexual health, how to protect yourself from STIs and to find your nearest GUM Clinic visit www.condomessentialwear.co.uk or call the free and confidential Sexual Health helpline 0800 567 123. Textphone (for people with hearing difficulties) 0800 521 361

Visit www.myspace.com/wantrespect

That’s MR Shaodow to you!

When you fuse martial arts with the sounds of Hip Hop, the first thing that may spring to mind is the Staten Island Hip Hop collective ‘The Wu Tang Clan’. Who are one of the pioneers of Hip Hop and are still making their presence felt all over the world today.

But now crossing back over to the UK shores, with 2 video releases titled ‘Look Out There’s A Black Man Coming’ and ‘Back 2 Da Drawing Board’ which are soon to be aired on ‘Channel U’ and ‘MTV Base’, Mr Shaodow proves that he has the skills and rhymes to make it in the UK hip hop game.

Mr Shaodow born Elliott Haslam plans to invite us into his world with his unique mix of martial arts and skilful rhyme schemes that stays on point. He formed the name Mr Shaodow by combining two elements which he thought linked well which are his love for Shaolin Kung Fu and his silhouette. With residences in Catford, Brixton and Oxford, Mr Shaodow decided to embark on a mission to become a talented new comer in the game back in 2006.

With Mr Shaodow being a new entrant in the UK hip hop scene, he has so far proved that there is a gap to be filled for another talented MC.

“Every song has to be unique, sometimes I’ll will flow like water, sometimes fire, sometimes wind, its best to hear the material but at the end of the day its more to me than a little bit of fame or money this is my art and so I’m going to try and spit artistically”.

His first single 'Look Out There’s A Black Man Coming' is a track which elucidates the institutionalised racism that is still a major affair today. The video for the track demonstrates what a black man would sometimes go through on a day to day basis. Mr Shaodow creates his own both music and videos alongside his producer ‘Spectral’ from ‘Elements Bound’ and his personal label ‘2econd Wind Productions’ and regularly spends some of his free time organising and performing at hip hop events in Oxford where he is currently studying for his Business and Law degree.

When asked about his type of rap style, Mr Shaodow replied;

“My style represents me, at the same time it’s truthful. I hesitate to say 'real' because everything is real, gun talk and crime is real. I just try to be as truthful as possible; the songs I write will be about a wide range of issues that people can relate to including work, racism and the UK music scene”

Mr Shadow feels that his music is first and foremost influenced by God; his musical influences include old greats such as Barry White and James Brown. He also enjoys popular Hip Hop artists such as Ludacris, Scarface and The Wu Tang Clan, who have all motivated him to create his music.

When it comes to the sounds of UK ‘urban’ music, there is one music artist that Mr Shaodow admires when it come to putting in work, as he explains;

“I would rate Sway; I really admire how much he’s done so far especially seeing as he is an unsigned artist. I think that is the best way to do things these days, well at least for me anyway”

Mr Shaodow explains to TSM that even though its good to have the financial backing from a major record label, at some point they are going to want what ever they put in, back. Shaodow states that “signing to a major label hampers an artist’s creativity”; he also feels that most major labels often dictate to artists what they can or cannot release, which leaves them more or less powerless in the decision making process.

Speaking on his collective 'Elements Bound', Mr Shaodow explains that the group all had to learn to be totally self-reliant in whatever missions they embark on, i.e an element in their own right. He feels that every artist in the rap game should have their fingers in as many “pies” as possible for them to be a success. Mr Shaodow is certainly backing up this statement by not only sticking to music, but also diversifying into different regions by releasing his own clothing line and embarking on a few other projects that will hopefully raise his status in the game.

Mr Shaodow will be releasing his debut album titled ‘That’s MR Shaodow to you’ later next year, or in his own words;

“the album will be released when I feel it’s ready!”

Myspace: www.myspace.com/mrshaodow

Words by: Leon B

Coming Up On The Scene Magazine

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The Scene Magazine Feature: Pneumatic & Sloth Interview

The history behind Pheumatic and Sloth speaks for itself; having met in the ukhh.com forums back in ’99 they’ve had a nourishing musical presence within the scene to date. Now represented by Headcount Records the rapsational duo have released their debut album, ‘Audibly Nice’, following the success of the critically acclaimed ‘The New Wave EP’.

Whilst influences bounce off from each other, fate brought together two exceptional talents to create a movement as one. Having worked and supported with some of the finest UK artists to date, as well as creating a positive impact to the scene alone,

Nina Carmela dwels into the autobiography of Pheumatic & Sloth…

1. When did your musical aspirations start and how did you individually begin to pursue them?

PMAN: I’ve loved music and art from a really early age, like 4 or 5 but aspirations to become a rapper came when I heard people like 'B.I.G' and 'Rakim' when I was about 13 or 14.

SLOTH: I started making tunes when I was about 16 on a pc my dad got me for doing school work on. A mate had Hip Hop Ejay, the one with the fake deck you put your mouse on to scratch, it was brilliant! haha! When I got bored of that and started sampling stuff off my parents CD's and making my own tracks from scratch. After getting some decks I got bored of scratching over the same beats again and again so I started making my own beats. Special times…. Haha.

2. What’s the story behind meeting on the UKHH.COM forum?

PMAN: Sloth had entered a remix competition being run on the site. I checked his entry and liked it – he also wrote that he would like to work with emcees – so I contacted him and then Bob’s your uncle!

SLOTH: They ran a remix competition for 'Big Dada' tracks about 6 years ago, I had Roots Manuva’s ‘Juggle Tings Proper’ on vinyl so I had a bang at that. They were all put up on the site for everyone to listen to and a put a comment on mine saying I’m looking for rappers to work on some tracks, cos I had a load of beats I’d made but rappers were scarce in my village. 'Pneu' had the remix and sent me an email saying lets do something together. So we started posting CDs to each other with beats and vocal tracks on and working on stuff. It was probably about 2 years before we met each other in person.

3. What kind of promotional antics did you carry out when you started to pursue this venture?

PMAN: We didn’t really promote ourselves, we just fucked about by him sending me beats and me sending him raps. We only thought about promoting when we had something to sell.

SLOTH: Leanne who runs headcount with Chris and Laura took care of most of the business/promo end of things. Like building the 'Myspace' page up and getting gigs etc. She also runs ‘No Good Promotion’ and secured reviews in 'HHC', 'Big Smoke', 'One Week To Live', 'Blues and Soul', 'The Metro' to name but a few.. we knew we had to push it hard as we hadn’t had anything out since the new wave ep, and because we didn’t have a single out first we really had to hit it hard on the promo campaign. We created new website too.. www.headcountrecords.co.uk

4. Was there enough support within the scene to help move you?

PMAN: You need support to earn money I guess. Not to move on – I don’t care if I only make some travel cash at the end of the day… I’ll always move on and carry on making music.

SLOTH: I guess so; we’ve had loads of positive feedback from people for ages, done a lot of gigs that have gone down well. Obviously we’re still as about as obscure as it gets but hopefully word of mouth from this album will help with that. Dan Greenpeace (who runs AllCity etc) has given us massive support in HHC, he loves the album... the big quote in HHC said ‘Its Pure Genius... 'Pman' and 'Sloth' are the living embodiment in UK Hip Hop!’ that was amazing to see splashed over a large picture of us in HHC!

5. When and where was your first live performance and how did the crowd respond?

PMAN: My first gig was in the High Wycombe Student Union. Probably about 30 people in the crowd and 'Sloth' wasn’t even there. He may not have even known about it. I did a couple of tracks with another emcee and a singer. Two people I remember had a little bop on the dance floor… and I remembered all my lyrics so I thought it went well to be honest.

SLOTH: Our first gig was at a night that Chris (Pneu)’s mate ran in Liverpool supporting Minature Heroes. I think the night was pretty dead but we a couple of cheers I think. I just pressed play on the CD player and did some shit cuts.

6. How would you describe your music?

PMAN: The music I make with Sloth is Hip Hop… Straight up with a twist.

SLOTH: bog standard Hip Hop, but done well, only different.

7. Who has influenced your musical direction?

PMAN: Everybody and everything I’ve ever come across in my entire life I guess.

SLOTH: Tough to say, I guess when I first started it was just trying to make a track that sounded like Premo or whatever. I don’t really know what the difference is between listening to stuff and being influenced by it. I like producers who use loops rather than synths, nice tunes that go places.

8. Where do your aspirations come from when you’re writing lyrics?

PMAN: My aspirations come from my brain and I don’t know exactly how that works. Sometimes I have no aspirations and I just write things down and see what happens. 90% of the time its butters and I throw it away. Watch - some kid will tell me that I’ve lied and I didn’t throw em away – I put em on Audibly Nice.

9. What do you think is the most important musical element whilst pushing your music independently?

PMAN: Pick a sick tune – pick some sick artwork and promote it to the best of your abilities.

SLOTH: make sure you’ve got someone at the head controlling it who’s in the know.. Leanne and Laura take care of us... if you’re not a natural business person then don’t let your ego get in the way, reach out and get advice and help... its very rare to have a creative and business mind at the same time... I wanna do well but I have no idea on that side of things so I leave it to our label ladies! I’m picking it all up though.

10. You’re set to release the ‘Audibly Nice’ album, what should we be expecting?

PMAN: It’s a collection of tracks 'Sloth' and me have been making since I was about 17. I’m now 24 and there’s a tune on there I made last year. So it’s just an introduction to what we’re all about I guess. Writing about your own music is pretty lame – so just go to a pc with Internet access and type www.myspace.com/audiblynice into the browser to get an idea.

SLOTH: Tunes! It’s a good album it is. It’s all our best tunes since we started. We just kept on making tracks until we had enough to make the final cut. We’ve got a shed load more that will never see the light of day. It’s had a load of positive feedback; it’s very varied for a Hip Hop album, loads of different moods and styles. Every track has a theme and a point to it, a lot of people who aren’t really bothered about Hip hop like it, which is interesting.

11. Is there a concept to this project and are their any particular tracks that stand out above the rest and why?

PMAN: There is no concept to the album. Most of the individual tracks have concepts though.

SLOTH: No concept as such no, but each track does have a theme to it. As for stand out tracks, ‘The Morning Star’ is the rowdy one that came out on vinyl already and got some wicked reviews. ‘Navigate Through’ is the uplifting one, a bit more commercial, but not commercial rap commercial, more indie commercial.

12. What’s been your biggest musical obstacle and how have you overcome it?

PMAN: There hasn’t really been any obstacles. There’s been a time when I’ve been stayin on people’s couches and not had a gaff, so I’ve had to sell my recording equipment to get by. (Biggest mistake I’ve ever made) so that set us back on a bit of recording time, but thanks to people like Illustrate, Rinse Dog and Mr Brown I got it all finished. (big up to them heads for recording my shit)
SLOTH: Just getting the album together as a finished product was a proper mission. Getting it all mixed and mastered and getting the artwork done took ages, making the songs was the easy bit.

13. What difference has it made having an independent record label support your movements?

PMAN: It has turned our CD into an actual release – rather than it being just another demo on a CDR or something.

SLOTH: More control being the obvious one. Because I’ve known Laura for years and Leanne’s been my lady for years we really have people we can trust to work the campaigns from start to finish... if something’s shit and they don’t like it they can easily tell us.. and they both know what they are doing as they did music industry degrees and have worked at loads of labels/pr etc... so we all work well as a team... team headcount!

14. You’ve worked and shared the stage with many great artists but who’s been the most inspirational?

PMAN: We supported 'Skinnyman' in Oxford once – he smashed it that night. Don’t think he even had a hype man - he just claimed the stage and claimed the show. Phat night.

SLOTH: I haven’t! haha, we have supported a few big names tho, 'Ugly Duckling', 'Skinnyman', 'Phi Life'. I don’t really have people that are inspirations as such, I respect artists or bands who get somewhere without having to change their sound.

15. Can you remember your first ever written rhyme?

PMAN: Yeah – they were shoddy. Nuff said.

16. What’s been your biggest musical achievement?

PMAN: Making Audibly Nice and starting up Headcount Records.
SLOTH: I guess this is the same answer as question 12, finishing the album was definitely an achievement for us, selling it will be the next step. If we can make our money plus a bit, and get our name about a bit that’ll be an achievement for sure.

17. What are your views on the current UK urban music movement?

PMAN: I don’t really know what the current UK urban movement is.
SLOTH: It’s like any genre man, some of its wicked, some of its shit. I don’t really listen to anything that you’d call urban other than hip hop. I’m not up on Grime, or UKG or whatever so I can’t really comment. I like prog!

18. Do you think that being involved within the music scene has become a trend to the younger generation?

PMAN: It’s more an escape than a trend.

SLOTH: It certainly seems like everyone’s a rapper or a producer or whatever, but then those are the circles we move in so it would, hehe. you mean the generation below us? You do hear a lot of little kids rapping on the bus or whatever, but I don’t know if that’s a trend, music is a big deal to every generation, I bet in the ‘60s everyone was in a rock band, same way that everyone’s a rapper now

19. What advice would you give to all those trying to pursue their musical interest into a full time career?

PMAN: If you truly want it, never stop trying

SLOTH: haha, don’t ask me I haven’t done it. I don’t know enough about the business side of it. Don’t expect anything big to come out of nowhere. I doubt there’s more than 10 people in the UK making a decent living out of selling there music. Most artist have proper jobs

20. Why should we be looking out for Pneumatic & Sloth and what kind of impact do you feel you can create within the music industry?

PMAN: You don’t have to check out our album if you don’t want to. If you do want to, a good place to start is our 'Myspace' page. If you like it to the point where you would actually like to buy it and put money in Headcounts bank account then that’d be nice.

SLOTH: I think people should check us out cos we do what we do well, this album isn’t trying to break any moulds, it’s just trying to be a wicked listen throughout. The next thing we do will probably nothing like this. If we stay doing hip hop we’ll probably make a little dent in the scene which is cool, but personally, now that ‘Audibly Nice’ is done I’m up for doing something totally different, branching out a bit. We’ll see… I’m working on a few tracks with Sonnyjim... hopefully something will come out of that.

Getting myself out there as a producer I guess... and more headcount ish... Illustrates album ‘The Stuff’ will be coming out later in the year... people are going bananas over it already... the headcount ladies are always getting mails from people bugging when it’s gonna drop!

21. What would you like to have accomplished within the next 5 years?

PMAN: More releases. More sick tunes. More gigs. More traveling around the world and hanging out with my girlfriend. A few more nights out with the crew and possibly owning a dog and learning to drive. I am butters at driving though so that one could get scrapped.
SLOTH: Musically? I guess another couple of albums. We know we can do it now, but there are a lot of other aspects that we need to get tied down, contacts, business, regular gigs, and all that stuff that you don’t really wanna think about if you’re an artist. I guess building my name as a producer too...working with over artists too... there’s plenty of Sloth to go around!

22. What’s on your musical agenda for 2007?

PMAN: Record a couple of joints and see that Illustrates album ‘The Stuff’ gets a proper good release with the help of the fantastic Headcount crew. Word up to Laura, Leanne and Sloth. Hopefully another 10” compilation as well but we’ll see.

SLOTH: Promote the album as much as we can, do more gigs, start working on new songs. All that sort of stuff. Keep on trucking.

For more information on Pheumatic & Sloth check out their web pages as follows: