The best talents out there are those who have a genuine love for what they do. When I interviewed film writer/director Adam Rifkin, his love for movies radiated through the phone as much as it does through his films. “I’ve always had a passion for movies,” Rifkin said. “I used to make movies in my backyard when I was growing up, and pretty much taught myself principles in movie making.”

Everything he does has that touch of originality, proving that one really can earn a living doing what they love their own way. From his tale of the bizarre comedian in Dark Backward to the outcast Caveman in his current film, National Lampoon’s Homo Erectus (aka, The 40,000 Year Old Virgin), Rifkin tells stories that tickle your funny bone, and stretch it in different ways. Even when writing for projects outside of his own – like Masters of the Universe and Underdog, he’s able to bring familiar stories to life in a unique way. “I love the challenge of taking a concept that wasn’t originally my own, and creating a story that the originator is happy with. When you have a love for films like I do, the ideas flow freely.”

He currently has shared his imagination with the world of comic books in his graphic novel Shmobots (published by Boom! Studios), about degenerate, lazy robots. This robotic tale follows the misadventures of robots (they preferred to be called Mechanical-Americans) Rusty, Eyeballs, and 69.5 as they try to find their place in a city that despises them. Their only human friend is a guy named Miles, who equals them only in his own stagnant laziness. The story flows like a movie, and the hilarious dialogue is done with timing that only Rifkin’s mind can pull off. The comedic twist kept me engaged in the story and when I finished, I was looking forward to see how he will expand on the world of Shmobots. The artwork by Les Toil compliments the story, adding to the tale of recluse robots. The comic book is in stores now, and if you go to the website you can read some behind the scenes commentary from Rifkin on the book. “We are currently exploring the possibility of turning Shmobots to a TV show or film, so people will have to stay tuned.”

National Lampoon’s Homo Erectus – which Rifkin wrote, directed, and co-stars in – also stars Ali Larter (Heroes, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back), David Caradine, and Tom Arnold. The movie is about the first genius caveman, Ishbo, played by Adam Rifkin. The film tells the comedic story of how it is for this inventive caveman living amongst those who don’t appreciate his intelligence, and want to keep the status quo. Scene after scene follows Ishbo as he realizes he just can’t gain the acceptance of his peers no matter how much he tries to make their life easier. Like with all inventions, Homo Erectus was made from Rifkin’s own creative desire to tell stories his own way to the masses. “A friend of mine jokingly told me that my movies would be easier to make if I starred in them myself, and I thought why not just star in this one myself. Then things kind of fell into place from there.” National Lampoon’s Homo Erectus hits DVD this winter. For more information on Adam Rifkin and his work, you can visit his myspace page.

-Copyright 2008 Keneteph Entertainment

Experiencing The Power of Mentorship

Last December I attended my first Hollywood movie premier. It was for the independent film, The Power of Mentorship. This phenomenal film, is about the importance of having a mentor in life, to help one get where they want to go. It is based on the life of the film’s producer, Don Boyer, how he became a self-made millionaire, by following certain steps his own mentor gave him. It stars many of the top people in the personal development industry, such as Bob Proctor, and Marie Diamond, from the hit movie, The Secret. The ideas presented in the film truly get ones thinking going in the direction of pursuing their goals, and fulfilling their dreams. What made my attendance even more special was that I wasn’t only going as a fan or one interested in the personal development industry, but as a fellow cast member. No, I don’t make a physical appearance in the film, but a song I wrote, A Matter of Choice, plays during the credits of the film.

Don, and his wife, Melinda, put in a lot of hard work to make the premier the success it was. The same dynamic time and energy they put into the movie premier, they put into the people they work with. They are authentic people that truly want to see the world succeed. Through their company Real Life Teachings, they give everyday people the chance to mentor others, and be published alongside the top names in the personal development industry. Overall, I was inspired by the feeling of increase for all that radiated throughout the event, and want to use this opportunity to thank Don Boyer personally for adding me to his team. I recently had the chance to pick Mr. Boyer’s brain, and ask him about his successes and future plans.

Thaahum: How did you get your start as an author?

Don Boyer: I had a desire to be a writer since I was 12 years old when I sent away for a course that I saw in a comic book called “how to become a writer”. Although it would not be for another 20 years I did see that dream come true in 1991. I wrote my first book called 7 keys to increase. I self published that book but it was soon picked up by a major Christian publishing company.

It was a good selling book and made its way into Christian book stores. For some strange reason I did not write or publish again until 2004 when I wrote a book called Legends of Thithers and Givers. Once again, I found that to be a great seller that sold around the world. In 2006 I got the idea to do a book on mentorship and wanted to have both local writers as well as some of the best speakers in the personal growth industry. That came out in February, 2006 and I only planned to publish that one. It sold 4000 copies in the first 90 days and people starting me to contacting me to do another one. Today we have 11 books in that Power of Mentorship series and have over 90,000 copies in the market place world wide.

Thaahum: How did you get your stat as a mentor?

Don Boyer: I think I evolved in to mentorship by first becoming a good follower and student. I had the good fortune to have great mentors in my life starting at the age of 19. Today I still have great mentors in my life, people like my good friend Bob Proctor and Vic Johnson. I started mentoring, which means I started my speaking and coaching career back in 1984. From that point until today I still make it my life calling to mentor people. In fact, we just opened up our new Power of Mentorship training center in So. California so that we have people come here to be mentored and trained.

Thaahum: When did you get the idea for the film?

Don Boyer: People laugh when they find out, but I got the idea to do the film at a restaurant in May 2007 and put it all together in 7 months and had our Premier on Dec. 6,2007 at the Land Mark Theatre in Los Angeles. We had the movie cast there including Bob Proctor. People ask me all the time how I did this? My answer is always the same, it never crossed my mind that I could not do it! The truth is, we can all do what we can’t do if we don’t know we can’t do it.

Thaahum: What is your goal with this film?

Don Boyer: My goal for the film is the same from the start-to bring freedom to billions! I feel the film has so much power and holds the answer for people all over the world to learn how to live a better life. To have more, be more and do more. What is your dream? Whatever it is you can have it.

Thaahum: How did you get the different teachers/mentors involved in the film?

Don Boyer: Law of attraction. There is no other way I could have brought these kind of individuals into a film project from someone who really was not known (speaking of myself of course} Big name people are booked years in advance and they have to be very careful to who they agree to work with. Once I set the intent to do the film and who was going to be in it, it was the job of the universe to make it happen not mine.

Thaahum: What do you like best about being in the personal development industry?

Don Boyer: Helping people. My life changed completely for the better because of mentorship. I was a young lost 19 year old boy when I first met my mentor who forever changed my life. Besides that, the personal growth industry is my passion, and my life calling.

Thaahum: What are your future goals and ambitions?

Don Boyer: The future holds more books, more movies and more trainings. I will be doing this as long as I live. .

Thaahum: Will you be making any more films?

Don Boyer: Yes we are now working on our next film project called The Network Marketing Entrepreneur. It will be a combination of personal growth and how mentorship plays are role in this great industry.

Thaahum: How can people find out more about you and your work?

Don Boyer: People can reach us at www.DonBoyerAuthor.com

–Copyright 2008 Keneteph Entertainment

Sarah Barrable-Tishauer: Making A Difference in Many Ways

I often times notice that artists with the most depth to them hardly get the recognition they deserve. The media would rather inundate us with stories on who is the most flashy, rather than people who have been able advance others lives because of the current place they are in. When I first got turned onto the show Degrassi some two years ago, the character “Liberty” played by actress Sarah Barrable-Tishauer really caught my attention. I sensed there was a certain depth the actress possessed I don’t see too much with young people in the entertainment business. I felt she had a true knowledge of self that she portrayed in her character that stood out. When interviewing Miss Sarah Barrable-Tishauer I smiled in knowing my intuition about her was right. She’s a young woman with a true sense of depth and vision, which will take her far.

One of the things she likes about being on the show is diversity in the cast, and the dynamic changes the characters go through throughout the seasons. “It’s such an amazing opportunity to be written this skeletal character and be able to give her dimension over seven years,” Sarah said. “Before filming, the writers will have ‘read-throughs’ with us so that we can give feedback on how realistic our characters’ actions and development are, so that our audience can better relate to our performance.” Flexibility is key on the set as Sarah originally auditioned for the part of Manny, who was written a bit different at the time. However the writers wrote the character Liberty after initial auditions had taken place and auditioning a girl who had had often pretentious and very organized characteristics. The girl didn’t end up getting cast, instead, they cast Sarah for the new part they wrote. “The joke on set for a while was that I out-Libertied Liberty.” Her self awareness enhanced her ability to tap into that character and further bring Liberty to life. “We are both strong minded, independent people, however I think I have more fun than her and I’m not as jealous as she can be. Being able to break down her characteristics helps me better portray her in front of the camera.”

Sarah’s openness to learn from many mentors has helped her fine tune her craft during her career. The first acting job she had was as the character Young Nala in the Toronto production of the play The Lion King, in which she got to work with some of the creators of the original. She also got to work with the late legend Gregory Hines in The Red Sneakers, which was his directorial debut. “I was the youngest cast member, so I learned a lot from the more experienced actors and crew. I even had the humbling experience of getting a dance class from Gregory Hines himself!” All this experience has made her lean towards wanting to produce her own shows in the future, as she said even Degrassi creator Linda Schuyler, mentioned to her that she would be a good producer one day. Sarah continues to advance herself through her pursuit of a communications and journalism degree at a local university in Canada. “I would like to eventually have my own travel television show. But for now I’m working with the university television station on a collective project where we interview up and coming local bands who are making an impact in music in their own way.” Her interests in traveling stems from seeing many marvelous sites she’s seen across the globe. “The reason why I love to travel is because I like to experience all the cultures that make our world a beautiful mosaic. It also allows me to put my own life in perspective.”

Even at her young age, while advancing herself in the acting and academic world, she still makes time to help others. She’s very active in the community, and contributes to many different charitable organizations. “I’ve been very blessed to have parents who instilled in me the strong belief that it is each of our duty to make a difference in the world and the best way to do so is through community activism.” One of the organizations she’s involved with is Dignitas International, which sets up community-based programs and health care systems for those living with HIV/AIDS in Malawi. She also co-founded a project called the Toronto Schools Snowsuit Challenge with Windfall Clothing Service, which encourages children to raise money for winter clothes for their less fortunate peers.

Positive change is something Sarah always moves towards in all aspects of her life. “I love what I do for a living because it gives me the chance to meet and learn from people I otherwise would not get the chance to encounter.” She owes her open-mindedness to parents who, she says, always encouraged her to consider new ideas and accept others. Not only is she bi-racial, but her parents have different spiritual backgrounds as well. “My mom and dad named me Sarah because it is a name represented by both the Jewish and Christian faiths.” Being raised in a home where differences were looked at as a way to understand others and bring people together has made Sarah eager to see more acceptance and understanding in her profession as well. “One of the more frustrating things about being in the entertainment business is seeing there are still a lot of cultural and racial stereotypes that need to be broken. The media creates stereotypes that reflect only a small portion of a racial group, and yet we are lead to believe that this is a representation of the entire culture. I’d like to see the industry become more color blind and start looking clearly at the world around them to see the diversity and individuality that exists.”

Be on the lookout for many great things to come from Sarah. She’s definitely one whose stardom shines inside and out!

For more information on her show Degrassi, go to www.ctv.com and
www.the-n.com.

The Beauty Right in Front of Us

It has been told to me many times that “the jewels you are looking for are always right in front of your face, you just have to know where to look.” For instance, if one looks closely, they will see an arrow in the Fed Ex symbol. Actress Cree Summer is one of those jewels who have always been in the entertainment business, with viewers bearing witness to this beauty’s talent and not even knowing it. She’s a triple threat, displaying her talents as an actress, singer/songwriter, and most of her entertainment career as a voice actress. In a recent interview I realized her mind and spirit are as free as the characters she’s portrayed.

She got her start into voice acting at the age of 11 as the voice of Penny on the popular show Inspector Gadget, and continued to do cartoon voiceovers even during her stay on the show A Different World as the character Freddie Brooks. As a matter of fact, she brought the voices of Elmyra from Tiny Toons and Susie Carmicheal from Rugrats to life during the last few years A Different World was on the air. In her early career, she was a part of such cartoon classics such as The Real Ghostbusters, The Care Bears Movie, Strawberry Shortcake, and The Ewok Adventures. For a more complete list of her works, just check out her IMDB page, and see that this is one hard working woman!

In comparison to live acting, she said voiceover work has its benefits, but she still enjoys all aspects of the acting craft. “I love doing both voiceovers and on camera acting, but I really like the freedom I get in voice acting,” she explained. “I really get into a character, and use its traits, age, and even jaw and teeth type to determine how I should do its voice.” Another positive aspect of voiceovers, she told me, was the closeness of everyone in the whole community. “It’s like being a part of a unique club, where everyone respects one another. It’s not like the music business, or live acting, where certain people will see others as competition. I am blown away and humbled when I walk in the studio and see a woman who can do eight character voices and none of them sound the same! Another reason there’s no uptight attitude about competition is because all of us are silly people and love our job.”

Despite the competitive attitude in the music business, this doesn’t stop her from writing poems and songs, and creating musically. Since her 1999 album Street Faerie – produced by friend Lenny Kravitz – was released, she’s continued to stay inspired. “I get inspired to write songs from many things – fantasy or poetry books I’ve read, or even live performances where there is dancing and other visual art involved.” Musically she has very diverse, colorful taste, as she grew up on a reservation listening to Native American music. In her own collection one will find music from Frank Zappa, Diana Washington, or even music from independent hip hop crews like Freestyle Fellowship. Her own style has changed since her last album as she says she’s not as “angry” as she used to be. “I was such a zealot back then and was raging against the world. I now realize that there is a much softer way to transform the world for the better. I also realized that the more I know, the more I know I don’t know anything!”

Even with the diverse amount of roles she’s played, Summer still has things she would like to see and accomplish in the business. “One character I’d like to voice that I haven’t played yet is a fairy, and I’d really love to do that. As far as African-American roles, we’ve come a long way, but I’d still like to see more diverse roles for African Americans and other ethnicities being created in the cartoon world. I’m really excited about the remake of The Swan Prince that Disney is making, in which about half of the cast is black.”

With all the work she does, she is so talented that she can do her job quickly and effectively. A session may only last a couple of hours. Staying humble with her gift, she said that she feels very blessed to be able to do what she does and still have time to herself and her own personal creations.

If you want to know a little more about Cree, check out our recorded interview in the podcast edition of “Keneteph’s Korner”, with some questions asked by people from a Cree Summer myspace fan group…

DOWNLOAD: (right click to save)
Keneteph’s Corner: An Interview With Cree Summer (MP3 format) ““ 11.24 MB

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–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

Broadcasting out of LA comes the sweet sounds of Hunnypot radio. This is a show that is all about the many genres of music, and the different emotions that it pulls out of life lovers. They play indie, underground, and mainstream artists and groups alike, so a diverse audience of listeners will find something that appeals to their tastes. Industry music supervisors DJ Hot Tub Johnnie, PJ Bloom, and Shok host the radio show. It is one light, live party, where the listener will be able to tell the DJs are having fun.

The great thing about this show is that although they are music industry professionals, they are truly about the music. It’s all about breaking new artists, playing great music, and not what some corporate guy in a suit wants them to play! DJ Hot Tub recently took some time out to tell me more about the radio show, and his experience as a music supervisor at Windswept Pacific.

THAAHUM: How long have you been DJ-ing, and what do you do at Windswept?

DJ HOT TUB: All my life. At 15 I would DJ at different high school parties. I’ve been in the entertainment industry for 18 years, and now run the film & TV department at Windswept Pacific, which allows me to truly pursue my love of music & find new artists. At Windswept, I’m the Senior VP of TV and music – a lifestyle choice. Basically, I get to absorb the music scene. I enjoy finding opportunities for artists and know how to interact with people. The movie industry is helping out a lot of artists because they see great music as an opportunity to market films.

THAAHUM: How did you get your start in the industry?

DJ HOT TUB: Coming out to LA & developing business relationships by interning my way into music and film industry.

THAAHUM: How did Hunnypot Radio come about?

DJ HOT TUB: Hunnypot Radio was started as a way to find the best artists. It was a collaborative effort between me and other individuals in the film, TV, and music community.

THAAHUM: What has been the response since its debut?

DJ HOT TUB: Tremendous! Most of the response has been “inner industry,” from others involved in film and TV. We are a close community and close to our listeners. People like that we play what we play. We aren’t getting any money out of this, so it allows us to play a diverse amount of music, without having to go thorough any red tape.

THAAHUM: What is your opinion of the state of music right now?

DJ HOT TUB: As an art, its essence will never die. Humans connecting with what moves them will always be there. Music may be like water one day – abundant, with all different types easily accessed by all.

Hunnypot radio airs every Monday from 7-10 pacific time and rebroadcasts throughout the week. Go to www.myspace.com/hunnypotradio to check them out, and www.hunnypotunlimited.com to check out their show.

-Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

Staying in northern Cali, I have to talk about indie HipHop producer “Stix.” He’s a classically trained pianist who KNOWS HipHop, and KNOWS how a HipHop track should sound. Because of his trained ear, many indie and mainstream artists alike go to him for production on their projects. Bay Area artists such as Too Short, B-Legit, and Keak da Sneak, have graced their vocals on Stix’s tracks.

The 31-year-old single father was classically trained at eight years old, and has been making Hip Hop beats since 13. This applied background gives him a wide range of tracks for any fans’ or artists’ tastes, from underground, mainstream, soulful, Hyphy, gangster or conscious. Stix took some time out to answer questions, giving us more info on his style.

THAAHUM: What is your opinion of the HipHop beats that are out today?

STIX: I think the beats are sounding better today than they’ve ever sounded. Hip hop keeps getting more versatile, from beats like Timberland’s to the chopped & screwed sound to the hyphy movement, there’s a lot more choices nowadays. That’s why hip hop’s bigger than ever. I think the lyrics were deeper in the old school, definitely sent a better message, but we’re talking about beats here.

THAAHUM: What style of tracks do you like to make?

STIX: The kind that get radio play.

THAAHUM: Who are your influences?

STIX: I’m influenced by the current sound. My job is to make hot production, so I have to be aware of trends and give the artists I work with the best shot at getting radio play. I can’t let my sound get dated – that’s when producers start showing their age.

THAAHUM: As far as producing goes, what are your long term goals and ambitions?

STIX: In 10 years I’ll still be in the studio. I know hip hop isn’t going anywhere. That’s the good thing about producing – you could be 60 and no one’s going to care, as long as the beat is hot.

THAAHUM: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

STIX: Sometimes I’ll hear something totally new and inventive on the radio and that’ll inspire me. Sometimes inspiration comes out of nowhere. It’s hard to pinpoint.

THAAHUM: What type of equipment do you like to use, and why?

STIX: When it comes to sounds, the sky’s the limit. I have a phantom, a motif, an ASR sampler, a Roland 8080, a trinity, and a Mo Phatt (these are all keyboards). Sounds are where it’s at. From the kick to the snare to the synth. You got to have the right sounds in hip hop.

THAAHUM: What makes your style different from other producers?

STIX: I think I have a different perspective from some producers because music didn’t start with making beats for me. I’ve been playing piano since I was eight. I’m still influenced by Chopin, Beethoven, Brahms & others. They had some gangsta azz music.

THAAHUM: Many hip hop fans only like tracks where sampling or live instrumentation is used. What do you say to folks who prefer sampling over using keyboards? Is one better than the other?

STIX: Sampling is good, but keyboards can still capture good sounds. Technology is getting better where keyboard sounds are sounding more authentic. Piano sounds on a keyboard sound just like a real piano. It is like using CGI for movies – just enough can enhance the film, but too much can make the film look too fake.

For more information and to check out sample tracks go to www.stixinthemix.com, and www.myspace.com/stixinthemix

-Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

Although I’ve a native to Arizona for the last 17 years, I still consider the Golden State of California my home. There’s a lot of interesting events, and people both known and unknown. I will feature some of them in this new mini segment called “My Favorite Things Cali.”

This first article is a feature on Darren “DJ Zulu” Battle, a promoter and DJ in northern California who throws parties catered to the “plus size crowd.” Why is he my first feature for this series, you ask? With no shame in my game I must admit I am a chubby chaser and admirer of the full figured women out there. There’s nothing wrong with being on the larger side. Hey, I am totally heterosexual and even think View Askew’s own Kevin Smith and Malcolm Ingram are handsome dudes. There is so much stereotype in the entertainment industry on how a woman should look, and I commend DJ Zulu for breaking such boundaries. Plus he throw’s some pretty great parties, with the best mix of DJs. Last year I had the pleasure of attending and performing at a party he threw in Vegas, and had a blast!

So without further Adieu, check out the interview I did on DJ Zulu.

THAAHUM: How did you get your start DJ-ing?

DJ ZULU: I started at age 14 at Kadena US Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan. I was naturally into music, and when I started seeing mobile DJs around the island, I wanted to be down. I got my first break at my end of (Jr. High/Middle) school dance. By High School we had relocated to a US Air Force Base in the Tokyo area, and 27 years later, here I am.

THAAHUM: How did “Darrenteed Productions” come about?

DJ ZULU: I was hyping up a Youth Center event that I was promoting and DJing (promoting came naturally about 2 years after I was in this) and I was digging on this girl and trying to get her to come through. I told her that I’d personally guarantee that she’d have a good time. With me trying to get at her and my government name being Darren, I flipped it on her and I said “No, I DARRENTEE you’ll have a good time” I got her number and the name just stuck.

THAAHUM: What made you want to start promoting plus size events? At what point did you realize that there needed to be more events that supported “fat acceptance” and the plus size community?

DJ ZULU: I’m fat girl lover. I’ve always been into chubby girls since high school. When I discovered that there was a plus size community through a friend around 1991, 1992, I started getting actively involved in it. I had stopped DJing for a period of time due to life – being married at the time and not feeling music during that time as much. So I would attend these social events, and they were cool – especially for us FAs (who happened to also be fat), but there weren’t many nightclub promotions at that time except for New York City. By the time I moved to the Bay Area in 1999, I had started DJing again, and it became a main goal of mine to do one here. There had been many social events in the Bay Area, which really was a pacesetter in the size acceptance community that never got its due. Even NAAFA started in this area. There wasn’t any nightclub promotions out west and I aimed to be the first. Many fat people wanted club style settings, and with my background I felt I could provide that for them. All I needed to do was give them the energy that the mainstream nightclubs provided and leave the rest of it up to them.

THAAHUM: What is your goal as a DJ and promoter?

DJ ZULU: As a DJ, I don’t have many goals left. I’m a slam DJ – I’m not the nicest on the mix, though I hold my own. I am a record breaker, though – as the industry knows, by sending me music fresh out the box. I still love to rock crowds, but I feel things differently than others. I’m not a big fan of a lot of the newer stuff out there and I tend to want to rock more house when I am mixing, or old school. As a promoter, I want to continue to introduce up and coming DJs and help get them where they want to go through my promotions and beyond. There are some great DJs within the plus size community right now, but they don’t’ step outside of it and my goals are to help them see the big picture, the long term effects. DJs come and go, same with promoters, but I am an example of longevity in the game – especially in the here today, gone tomorrow plus size community.

THAAHUM: What current projects/parties do you have planned?

DJ ZULU: I still do mainstream joints and look for New York Garage and Chicago House promotions to rock at. As far as plus size parties, we still have the Bay Area on lock and we keep trying to touch the sky and get better at it with our themes and fun. We want to get a piece of the pie in New York City with the help of my good friend Lynx, and I have a huge goal of getting Atlanta on and poppin again since I claim it as my city even though I no longer live there. We are also in the beginning stages of a Big Boogie Nights Kansas City with my girl Deb and, of course, there’s the Late Night Pajama Jammie Jam and Fetish Ball taking place on the strip in Vegas on August 10th.

THAAHUM: What has been the general response since you started “Darrenteed Productions?”

DJ ZULU: Darrenteed Productions has been a blessing for me. The promotions have been great since I started and I’ve met some great people during my career. Some started as just a hobby – like DJ Alvin D and DJ Roonie G, who are now icons in the industry. We were just b-boys in Tokyo trying to do our thing… Look at us now – I’ve got gray hair now and, even though those two would deny it, they do too. But we still do our thing and it’s like a family tree now.

THAAHUM: What do you like best about being in the entertainment business?

DJ ZULU: The travel, the perks of being one of the test audience for record companies, meeting people from various cultures and backgrounds, and it’s a good career if you handle it right.

THAAHUM: What is the most frustrating thing about being in the entertainment business?

DJ ZULU: The drama, haters, those who don’t pay their dues and just starting up thinking it’s easy, the backstabbing… oh, and did I say the haters?

THAAHUM: I notice there seems to be different factions and promoters that have “beef” with each other even in the plus size community. What do you think it would take to have more people unite, since everyone has the same goal of plus size acceptance?

DJ ZULU: Wow, I wish I could answer that question, but I’m not really sure what people could do to unite. You’ve got people from different backgrounds, regions and races – what brings us all together is that we are either fat, fat lovers or both fat and a fat lover like myself. Many egos get inflated – mine included – and sometimes we forgot what we are here for. Many bullshit and some even want to make people who make this a business seem less sincere – which is ridiculous, because 90 percent of those who say that are new to the community. There is nothing wrong at all with being a successful business person through the plus size community. There are people of certain ethnicity’s that do business that caters to them, and there are people of different sexual orientations that have business that caters to them, and do people hate on e-harmony or large connections or what ever for being a dating service? They are a business first, and my promotions are a business first, too. Many who are promoting plus size events don’t even know who paved the way or about the plus size organizations out there – they see someone doing a party, they say “hey, so and so can do it, then so can I” and they try to beat down so and so in the process. They draw lines much like gangs or political affiliations and they speak through second and third parties so they don’t look bad. They never attempt to squash drama – yet they try to portray the image they are never involved. They change their position on things only to draw a crowd. I have the same image and outlook as I have since I started, and that won’t change – my personality is a either you love me or loathe style. I understand that about me, but I don’t take away from my event. My promotions aren’t about me, they are about the patrons! Some want to be treated like icons – some really believe that they are saints by doing fat promotions. We are just like everyone else who got lucky and believed in what we are doing. Some promoters seem to have problems with a man promoting these events because most focus on the plus size woman instead of the plus size person. Being fat isn’t gender specific, so I don’t just focus on women. Lastly, people take it too seriously – the results you put into your vision are the results that come out. Many are snowed for years but it always comes out in the end, I have faith in that.

THAAHUM: Where can people find more information on you and your events?

DJ ZULU: The best way to find out what’s up with me is by hitting my links at www.bigboogienights.com, www.darrenteed.com and www.myspace.com/djzulu.

–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

The rules have changed for filmmaking and filmmakers are now achieving success in their own hometown. People no longer have to move to Hollywood, or New York as a sure shot of “making it” in the entertainment business. Arizona filmmakers Brian and Dean Ronalds formed Ronalds Brothers Productions as a means to make and release their own films. Me being an Arizona resident, I was inspired to interview these two because they continue to do what they love – making movies – while feeling no pressure to move to Hollywood.

Their most recent film, Nether Beast Incorporated, stars View Askew’s own Jason Mewes, and also Steve Burns, the original host of the children’s’ show Blues Clues. Kevin Smith blogged about this movie last November, and now Quick Stop Entertainment brings you the inside scoop on the film and its creators in this interview.

THAAHUM: How did you guys get your start making films?

RONALDS BROTHERS: We’ve have been involved in the entertainment industry for the past 20 years. Growing up in Los Angeles, Albuquerque, and Littleton, we were able to perform onstage and in front of a camera at our schools, dinner theatres and local broadcasting companies.

THAAHUM: Do you guys specialize in one type of genre or different kinds?

RONALDS BROTHERS: Our first short we produced, “When Dark Falls” was a 12 minute Horror flick, then we did a Crime Drama, “Bounty” in Denver, shot a 22 minute War short titled “A.W.O.L.”, we did another 3 minute Horror short, “SPLiT”, then we shot a 17 minute Drama, “Portrait”, and then we moved into comedies with the shorts, “The Netherbeast of Berm-Tech Industries, Inc.”(6 minutes) and “Little Victim” starring Robert Wagner and Lori Singer.

THAAHUM: Who are your influences?

RONALDS BROTHERS: Directors ~ Mel Brooks, Neil Simon, Jim Jarmusch, Alfred Hitchcock, Actors ~ Gene Wilder, Tim Curry, Jimmy Stewart, Tom Hanks, Mike Myers.

THAAHUM: Tell us about your current project?

RONALDS BROTHERS: Nether Beast is based on the award-winning short The Netherbeast of Berm-Tech Industries, Inc., which took Best Screenplay at the London International Festival of Science Fiction and Fantastic Film; Best Comedy Short at Filmstock; Best Comedy Short at the Long Island Film Expo and at the Toofy Film Festival; and was the Micro Short Hall of Fame Winner at the International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival, among other awards and rave reviews. Both of us were named Best Arizona Filmmakers of the Year at the 2005 Phoenix Film Festival. Nether Beast is our feature film debut.

THAAHUM: What was it like working with everybody, especially Jason Mewes?

RONALDS BROTHERS: It was killer working with so many great folks. Steve Burns is so easy going, Judd Nelson is like a walking, talking encyclopedia, Dave Foley doesn’t have a non-funny bone in his body, Amy Davidson is as sweet as they come, Darrell Hammond was caring and supportive, Robert Wagner as always was a gentleman and a scholar, and then there’s Mewes. Mewes was on time and ready to go everyday. It was like hanging out with the homies when he was on set. Off set, he was very personable. We both have 4 year olds who took a liking to Mewes. He played with them and joked around with the little ones. Late one night after we wrapped for the day, Me, Dean, Steve Burns and Mewes were hanging out in the pool. We all decided to have a “Pool Olympics” by seeing who could swim the fastest and the furthest while holding our breaths under water. Mewes won. We then proceeded to see who could do more under water flips in one breath. Mewes won with 7. The dude is one athletic MoFo. Jason was a pleasure on and off the set and we think you’ll like his take on Waxy Dan. It’s definitely different then anything you’ve seen him do before!

THAAHUM: Has Nether Beast shown at any film festivals?

RONALDS BROTHERS: Not Yet. We’re scheduled for:

WORLD PREMIERE
AFI DALLAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
March 30th and 31st at the Landmark Magnolia Theatre
for more info go to www.afidallas.com

WEST COAST PREMIERE
10th ANNIVERSARY SONOMA VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL
April 12th and 13th
for more info go to www.sonomafilmfest.org

ARIZONA PREMIERE
2007 PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL
April 14th and 15th at the CineCapri in Scottsdale
for more info go to www.phoenixfilmfestival.com

THAAHUM: What has the response been?

RONALDS BROTHERS: So far, we’ve done small test screenings and the response has been very positive.

THAAHUM: Now I read you prefer to stay here in AZ to make movies, which goes against the grain of those who move to LA or NY to make their films. What made you choose to stay here to continue your filmmaking career?

RONALDS BROTHERS: As filmmakers, if you have an idea and a camera, it’s movie makin’ time whether your in Greeley, Colorado or Albuquerque, New Mexico!

THAAHUM: How do you think things are changing for aspiring artist to have success with their craft in their hometown?

RONALDS BROTHERS: One word. Technology. If you have a drive and willingness to follow through on what you say and dream, you can make things happen wherever you’re at!

THAAHUM: Where can people find out more information on the film?

RONALDS BROTHERS: www.netherbeast.com, http://www.myspace.com/netherbeast, http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=netherbeastmovie

THAAHUM: What are your future goals and aspiration?

RONALDS BROTHERS: We’re currently working with writer Bruce Dellis, Executive Producers Kevin Berman, F. Miguel Valenti, Chris and Rodney Rothert, and Dan Wilhoit on our next Feature Comedy, to be shot Fall 2007.

–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

Many don’t know about a phenomenal emcee by out of Chicago by the name of Juice. This is not to be confused with DJ Ju-Ice out of Jersey, or any other rappers (like the one Game signed), with the same name. THIS Juice has established himself as one of the best freestyle lyricists in HipHop. He has beaten mainstream rappers Common, and even Eminem in a 1997 battle called The Scribble Jam. Both rappers have publicly admitted to being defeated by Juice in battles. He has also been featured on Sway and King Tech’s Wake Up Show in Los Angeles, and has constantly impressed them with his freestyle skills.

Despite his success he is not signed to a major label, but because of his own determination to advance HipHop, he continues to make lyrical innovations and stretch his abilities. On the path of a lyricist, he’s also had to prove himself to HipHop fans and artists alike, who have doubted his skills and said his freestyles were pre-written. He always shows and proves, but is now focusing on putting songs together, instead of freestyling. He released a full length CD of songs called All Bets Off in 2005. Explaining when he decided to start writing, Juice said, “I realized when it came to rap, artists who are good at freestyling usually aren’t good at writing lyrics, and artists who write songs can’t freestyle worth a shit. Even though I was accused of writing my freestyles, I actually wanted to master song writing and put concepts together.”

The independent artist has his own label, Conglomerate Music Corp, and has formed his own group, called Juice and the Machine. The Machine is made up of various musicians who play his tracks live. They have a CD out from a live show they did at a club called The Party, which comes with a DVD of the same show. The Live from the Party CD/DVD is put together by Bandit Productions and The Conglomerate Music Corp., and is SLAMMING!!! Juice and the Machine bring out how HipHop should sound. It’s a mixture of songs and freestyles, and when Juice freestyles, it’s like the band freestyles with him in musical melody. I was even more impressed when I found out the band only practiced twice before the show!! Juice said he formed a band to further establish himself as an artist. “People seem to see you as more credible and take to you more if you have a live band with you. I got fans who say they don’t like Rap, but like my music because of the universal appeal.” The CD/DVD can be purchased on the Bandit Productions website.

Juice says his main goal with his music is to stay successful as an independent artist, and break a few stereotypes some fans have about underground artists. “Just because an artist is underground, doesn’t mean they can’t be well off. Some fans think if an artist is well off and not struggling, it means they’ve lost their underground musical flair. That’s not the case at all – actually a lot of underground cats are more well off and have more money in their pocket than some of these mainstream artists who claim to have money.”

QUICK STOP EXCLUSIVE: For those who would like to hear Juice’s freestyle skills, we have two freestyles he did for Quick Stop Entertainment. The first one he did after I gave him three phrases to put in the verse; “Kenneth Plume,” “Kevin Smith,” and “Quick Stop Entertainment.” Due to my shitty phone connection he thought I said “Quick South,” but I’m sure you’ll forgive him. This is the freestyle he left on my voice mail after we hung up.

The second is actually a freestyle interview. This is the first of its kind, where I asked Juice five questions – he had no idea I would ask beforehand, then he freestyled the answers. Now, you got a distinction from other rappers who call themselves “Juice” and “The Real Juice” – kind of like how back in the day there was the Ghostbusters cartoon, then another copy cat cartoon came out, so the first Ghostbusters cartoon changed it’s name to The Real Ghostbusters.

Quick Stop Entertainment’s always bringing the good shit for that iPod!!

–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

Most people only see the end result of a big accomplishment – whether it was the invention of the wheel, the light bulb, or even the internet. They don’t see the hard work, heartache, and failures that go into creating something great. In an effort to give people a better understanding of the path go-getters take, independent filmmaker Lisa Murray has begun a documentary showing the drive people have in manifesting their destiny. I Have Dreams – Dammit, released by her company, Skylife Productions, walks the viewers through the lives of dream pursuers and the resilience that carries them to their destination. “After coming against my own obstacles, in my pursuit of being a filmmaker, I decided to make this film in hopes to influence those who where going after their own dreams to stay motivated,” Murray stated.

So far the film’s trailer has received great reviews on the On The Lot website. The website was set up for a new reality TV series by Mark Burnett and Steven Spielberg for indie filmmakers. I Have Dreams – Dammit is still in production, but is the first of many projects to come from Lisa Murray. This also is not the first project she’s received rave reviews for. Her short film, Free Hugs in Hollywood, was featured on Yahoo!’s homepage this past December and has received over 380,000 views. In the video Murray displays how the simple act of giving one a hug can be exactly what’s needed to brighten one’s day.

In watching her videos, I couldn’t help but feel that Murray’s work has an authenticity to it that can truly change the world for the better. Her vision and determination is the touch of wholesome flavor the film industry needs in order to serve viewers a complete artistic meal. She is very one on one with her fans and constantly updates her video blogs, giving her personal perspective on the progression of her work. Still keeping her journey in perspective she stated, “I use my obstacles to push me forward, so I can move out of my own comfort zone, and accomplish what I need to.” Folks can still view and rate her trailer on the On The Lot website, and can hear more of her perspective and progress of the film on her You Tube Video Blogs.

More info can be found out about her company at www.skylifeproductions.com.

–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

So a few weeks ago I woke up hip to Imani Coppola, a multi talented musician who is 10 years deep in the game. Her sound crosses every style imaginable; Alternative, Rock, Classical, Hip Hop, R & B – you name it! I never heard of her until I heard her song “Woke Up Hwite” on somebody’s myspace profile, and fell in love with her sound immediately. After listening to a few of her other songs, it affirmed the best things come unexpectedly. Imani’s put out nine albums, her first being Chupacabra, released in 1997 on Columbia Records. Her most recent disc, The Black and White Album, was released this past January on her own label, having songs showing the authentic, soulful strength of this now independent artist.

The whole Black and White Album is a musical journey in self exploration. The melodies and lyrics are unpredictable, but still allow the listener to follow Imani on her journey, as they tap into their own being. The irony hits you like “damn,” like in “The Black and White Jingle #1” when she says “Sometimes life may feel like it’s sucking you up/but it’s not, it may just be you sucking . . .” All around, this CD should be ranked among the classics. Pick it up and get ready for the ride! If you still need convincing check out some tracks on her MySpace Page.

When doing the phone interview I was on a local college campus – a place where people learn new ideas, and attempt to find their place in the real world. Respectively, in the school of the entertainment industry, Imani learned many lessons, knows her place in the “music world,” and expresses a style all of her own. “When I first got signed I was confused by the business conflicting with creating musical art,” Imani explained. “An up and coming artist with a message can break in the mainstream, but they’ll have to make a single where they’ll more likely be saying something they don’t want to. It sucks, that if the major label you are on doesn’t like what you say in a song, you are screwed.”

There were certain songs she couldn’t put out when signed because her label didn’t think they had enough commercial, mainstream appeal. Determined to get her musical message out, she released Little Red Fighting Mood independently in 2001. This CD was made up of songs not picked for her first two albums. Making positive of any situation and a strong will are not only reflected in her music, but her personality as well. Despite being under the weather, she schooled me on her experience in the industry, and was just as witty and insightful as her songs.

As a businesswoman she wears multiple hats, acting as her own manager, and promoter. She personally answers all business emails, and sends CDs herself to the online sites that sell them. “Every artist will need outside help eventually, but being independent helps boost one’s self worth as an artist. You make goals, achieve them, and celebrate – it’s like playing an instrument, and getting better as you practice.” That she has experience with as she writes, composes, and arranges all the music she does.

Her goal for this current album is to get it out to the masses, and start working on another CD. She also wants to continue composing and branch off into composing music scores, and even voiceover work.

People can buy her music and find out more about her at www.imanicoppola.net.

–Copyright 2007 Keneteph Entertainment

I still can’t figure out why New Jersey is at the tail end of many jokes (some even calling it the “armpit of the US”) when a lot of good talent and ideas come out of NJ. The whole vision of the View Askewniverse is an example of this, along with our own Quick Stop Entertainment. Another example of creative innovation coming out of Jersey is Trenton, NJ DJ, DJ Ju-Ice. He’s raised the bar of the DJ game by releasing DVDs of the mixing/mash-ups he does on CD. The whole mix lines up perfectly with their respective video. So you are not just watching a Jay-Z or Pharell video, you are actually watching it completely remixed by DJ Ju-Ice! It truly takes mixing and mixtapes to the next level and will leave you wondering what will be thought of next!

This musical art you have to see to experience has won him the 2006 Justo Mixtape Award for best DVD blends, and best mixtape blends. Winning a Justo Mixtape Award is something many urban DJs aspire to get, as it was the first award ceremony offered for DJs. Ju-Ice’s recent mixtape video blend DVD is the third one he’s released since last year. I’ve had a chance to see all three and they get better with each one he makes, but still unique in their own right. Being unique does bring a lot of copycats though as Ju-Ice has seen a lot of DJs copy his style of mixing. Despite this he still welcomes creativity from others. On one of his DVDs he encourages other DJs to stay original and keep their creativity up. This new one features a few mixes by his protégé DJ Seductive. A lot of time was placed in editing the over one and a half hours of videos into one continuous mix. He even throws in some Marvin Gay and Dianna Ross into the mix, put to some new beats. The mixtape video blends make a great gift for friends, or even for yourself to watch or show at parties.

Ju-Ice is staying busy working on a mixtape video blend DVD featuring all Mary J. Blidge videos. DJ Seductive also working on her solo blend DVD project.

Check out the you tube link for a preview of his blends. For ordering information please call 609-984-8062 or go to myspace.com/therealdjjuice

• Video Blend Sample 1

–Copyright 2006 Keneteph Entertainment

Success and innovation come to those who have a general interest in helping others.  Music supervisor Thomas Golubic is an example of this.  His own creative innovation has brought about a new sound in cinema and music that hasn’t been heard before.  He started a monthly scene in Hollywood, CA called Synchronize Live where he re-scores classic films, putting new songs and mixes in them.  A few of the films he’s re-scored are 2001: A Space Odyssey, Requiem for a Dream, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.   Golubic got his start in the business as a DJ on Los Angeles station KCRW, after having a not so successful internet magazine.  “I volunteered at the station because I wanted to help them avoid the mistakes I made from having an internet magazine,” he stated.  Being heard on the air eventually landed him the opportunity to be a music supervisor.  Some of the projects he’s done music supervision for are the TV show Las Vegas, and the HBO series Six Feet Under.

For those who don’t know, music supervisors are in charge of finding the right music for film and TV productions.  “We look at things from a creative process, with each step being different depending on the project.  Music for film is very different than finding music for TV-even steps in finding music for an independent film vs. a mainstream film is different.”  Admitting he’s better enjoyed music supervising for film, he took his passion to create Synchronize Live.  Combining the mash-up skills of a true DJ, and his experience as a music supervisor, Golubic is able to enhance the score of a film with new music, without taking away from the original audio.

Golubic has stuck true to the art of mash-ups and has also formed a group called The Arbiters.  The group is made up of himself and other music enthusiast who creatively mash-up hip hop, rock, soul, and every other inspiring music to make an even more powerful sound.  “This started when I was a DJ for the closing parties at the Sundance Film Festival, and took older songs, and put accapellas to new songs to them.  The crowd really loved it.”

Before writing this article I was listening to their mashup The Sure Side of Fame, which takes elements from David Bowie’s Fame, John Lennon, and combines it with accapellas from Biggie and Tupac.  The art of Mashups, actually started with hip hop, which Golubic calls “one of the most important movements in the past 30 years.”  “There is more great music available now than ever.  What is popular may not be great, but there’s a lot of good lesser known underground music.”  The Arbiter’s musical innovation awarded them the myspace music pick of the month this past June.  What makes their mixes so nice to listen to is that you can hear the passion that was put in each mix.  It’s like eating your grandma’s cooking where you can taste that she made it with love, only with this the sound your ears are taking in you can feel was put together by people who have a sincere keenness for what they are doing.  “I love touching people through music.  Good music and film can reach people’s souls and open them up to ideas they would otherwise never have thought of.”

In the future, Thomas Golubic wants to get synchronize in more film festivals, and continue to work with great filmmakers.  For more information on his work go to www.arbiters.multiply.com, and www.myspace.com/synchronizelive.

–Copyright 2006 Keneteph Entertainment

As an independent musician, I have been hit with the harsh reality that things in the recording industry have not changed for the betterment of the artist.  Record companies are interested in the bottom line of making money, and not putting out music that positively influences, or grows on the listener.  The opportunities to openly express oneself and be heard that my influences had, are not exactly there for up and coming artists like myself.

When I first heard about director Andrew Shapter, and co-writer Joel Rasmussen’s film Before the Music Dies, a sense of inspiration hit me.  Once I finished watching the film, the feeling only grew, opening my mind to the fact that many music fans, and artists alike want to do something to change music for the better.  The film features artists Erykah Badu, Dave Matthews Band, Bonnie Rait, and Questlove from The Roots, and others all talking about their dissatisfaction on the way things have gone in the music industry.

Joel Rasmussen & Andrew Shapter

Both Shapter and Rasmussen talked with me more in depth about their influences and purpose behind the film.  Shapter originally came up with the idea to make this documentary through his experience as a fashion photographer.  “I would take pictures for CD covers, and MTV, and noticed a shift in my job where an emphasis was placed on making the artist look younger as opposed to their music,” he explained.  Questions he posed about this and other issues in the music industry were subsequently answered in the film.  He pitched the idea for the film to Rasmussen, who is also a musician, and was tired of hearing the same songs on the radio.  “Both of us are parents and it concerned us that most songs don’t talk about things anymore,” Rasmussen said.  Reflecting on the music of yesteryear, they were frustrated that the lyrics in music have become so watered down.  “There was a time when an artist’s songs talked about things that were going on in the world and inspired its listeners,” Shapter added, “now the industry is not investing in prolific writers,.”  In search of the reason behind authentic music’s apparent demise, they allowed their quest to be the fuel behind creating an insightful documentary to pass on to their children, and other future generations to come.

Addressing this serious topic in an entertaining, yet informative way, Shapter, and Rasmussen educate the viewer on the ins and outs of a business many are so infatuated with.  In comparing music of today with songs of the past there is a humorous scene when radio personality/comedian Charlie Hodge interviewed what looked like  teenage girls after an Ashlee Simpson concert.  He asked them if her songs inspired them to do anything and in a giggly tone they responded “no!”  Despite there being a lack of musical inspiration for today’s youth, Before the Music Dies offers a silver lining to the nasty storm the current music industry has created.  Shapter says the goal of this movie is three fold; to first wake up the audience and go below the surface of the music industry.  The other is to inspire musicians and show them that in lieu of their frustration there is hope.  Lastly, they want communities to support independent musicians by going to their shows.

Before the Music Dies is distributed by B-Side Entertainment which is putting the film on a national screening tour.  The tour will focus on communities where die hard music fans reside.  Steve Waters, a representative from B-Side stated the film will reach audiences that otherwise wouldn’t be reached.  “There will be a music screening for inner city youth in Rhode Island, and also one in Morehouse College,” he stated.  They are also looking for organizations across the nation who would be interested in hosting a screening of the film.  For more information on the film, or if interested in hosting a screening go to www.beforethemusicdies.com, or www.myspace.com/beforethemusicdies.

View Trailer

–Copyright 2006 Keneteph Entertainment

BOOK REVIEW: The Rebirth of Seeds

The Rebirth of Seeds (myspace.com/therebirthofseeds) by Renard E. Williams, and published by Event-Horizon publishers, is not your average book of poems.  Many other poetry books are just filled with words of hopes and dreams accomplished and lost, but do not really leave the reader something to carry with themselves in their daily lives.  Rebirth isn’t one of those books.  In this collection Williams leave the reader with enough insightful heat to re-spark the soul in its journey to know itself.  For him, the inspiration behind the book was to act as a guide to give his children a greater outlook on life.   “In writing this work, I wanted to make a sort of family manual-something I could pass on to my children so they wouldn’t make the same mistakes I did,” Williams explains.

Uniquely done, the book is broken down into three sections; poetry, commentaries on selected poems, and a glossary of terms.  The book is an easy read no matter what frame of thought the reader is coming from.  He bears his soul allowing the audience to see the internal struggles that are common to all.  For example, the poem “Big Momma Speaks” talks about dealing with the loss of a loved one, and hearing their words in order to gain a better understanding of ourselves.  Another poem in the book entitled, “INC” compares love relationships to corporations where each party comes with an agenda to only benefit themselves.  Even more magnetizing, he eloquently speaks on social and spiritual issues from an unbiased observer’s point of view, so that everyone can take his words and apply it to their own situation.  If that’s not enough he then bears his intellect so readers can see his thought process behind his writing in the commentaries.  All in all “Rebirth” is a great re-remembering of what we’ve always known about ourselves but often tend to forget.  For inquiries on the book, the publishing company can be contacted at UrbanGuru@MSN.com, and 323-281-1701.

My Small Light in the Huge Askewniverse

Greetings Earthlings, the extraterrestrial Emcee has landed!  Some of you may know me from my music, the posts on the View Askew post board, or the cool shorts Mattt Potter has cut to some of my songs.  For those that don’t know me, hi-my name’s Thaahum (pronounced Thaa-Hoom-with a long ‘a’ sound), and I’m a writer and I rap once in a while too.  Don’t be alarmed though, it’s not the hip hop that’s played on most of your local radio stations, where all they talk about is how rich they are or how many chicks they committed various sex acts with.  Naw, my music actually has lyrics people can understand, and relate to (what a concept, music with a message)!

I gotta thank Kevin Smith for always supporting up and coming talent, no matter what their art form is.  I also have to thank the Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Ken Plume, for giving me the opportunity to have my own column on the site, “Keneteph’s Korner.”

So what can you expect in my part of the universe?  Well to be blunt – really good shit!  I’ll be featuring talented people in the entertainment field you normally wouldn’t hear about.  Sometimes you’ll have heard about them, but the articles will show a perspective on them the audience can gain something from.

The first article was on co-writer of the Occult Crimes Task Force (OCT) comic book, David Atchison.  He and actress Rosario Dawson both write the series.  I hope you guys enjoyed it.  This week I have a review on an urban poetry book called The Rebirth of Seeds by Renard E. Williams.

Some say I’m a pretty good writer, but you ask if I really got skills behind the mic?  You be the judge.  I leave you with a verse I did giving props to the crew I’m a fan of the most – Kevin Smith – Takin’ Out Sukkas.  Mattt Potter of View Askew recently cut a funny video to this song, which can be seen via the links below:

Quicktime – Large

YouTube

MySpace

Peace,
Thaahum
Keneteph Entertainment
www.keneteph.com

As youngsters (and for many now as adults) it was easy for us to get wrapped up in a movie, comic book, or any art, and get sucked into the author’s story of a world different from our own.  I recently read a comic book called the Occult Crimes Taskforce (OCT) that captured my imagination, and got a chance to interview one of the writers, David Atchison.  Atchison has teamed up with actress Rosario Dawson, and illustrator Tony Shasteen, to introduce the new exciting story.  OCT starts out about a heroine named Sophia Ortiz (whose likeness is Rosario’s) who is recruited to solve crimes of a supernatural nature.  Atchison describes it as CSI meets Harry Potter.

Atchison and Shasteen originally came up with the concept, and shared it with Dawson’s uncle, comic book artist, Gustavo Vasquez.  They then pitched it to Rosario and she fell in love with the project.  “Rosario grew up on the Lower Eastside of NY, which is a real eclectic area,” Atchison explained, “she’s used to hearing about different philosophies, and thinking outside the box.  Plus she’s huge comic book fan.”  He said that some of his ideas came from when he was in the air force and saw documents that he received no explanation on.  Their combination of experiences and ideas is leading OCT to the unique, magnetic world it is to become.  The first issue came out in July and subsequent issues are to follow, as well as a movie and video game based on the story.  “People are going to be exposed to a whole realm of substories, and plots within OCT.  Eventually Sophia will not be seen as much and other characters will have stories revolve around them.” 

The talent that Atchison, Dawson, and Shasteen bring defiantly satisfies any comic book fan.  Shasteen does all the inking and coloring, and to supplement Atchison’s writing, Dawson’s movie expertise gives the story a cinematic feel.  “Rosario loves being co-creator in this work.  It gives her a more hands on opportunity to contribute to the story as opposed to just being an actress on a set.”

When reading the story one will see a lot of research went into bringing the OCT universe to life.  Philosophers like Hermes Tresmegestus, and Alister Crowley were looked at, as well as a theory called “bisociative thinking.”  Atchison describes it as the idea of taking two unrelated things and finding a common ground between them.  “Many people say they don’t believe in the occult but have their own superstitions – from the baseball player who wears mix-matched socks, to the old man who plays certain lottery numbers.  All I did was take questions and make my own answers to them.”

As far as David’s future projects, next year he will be staring a hip hop comic book project called Clash, as well as another OCT project in the spring explaining more of the story.

-Copyright 2006 Keneteph Entertainment