PUBLICISTS' vs PROMOTERS: The Battle of the P’s

I was in a deep sleep. It was 8:17 AM and I had worked the day before-Public Relations on Super bowl Weekend LI in Houston, TX. Tending to celebrities and kissing babies.  My PR Partner in crime woke me up with a crisis. One of the celebrities that she had booked for a red carpet event was now all over the blogs. I pulled out the second phone, woke up my media team and we all got to work. Needless to say one harmless picture with a celebrity and a mystery woman had gone viral and started a myriad of fires and my partner in PR was the firefighter.

Behind the scenes work is somewhat hard to prove to those who do not understand what Public Relations entails. Recently becoming more popular among those who want to boost their brands PR Specialists and Publicists to date have been a mystery among new industry professionals. Most commonly confused with promotions the intricate details of the skills one has to ensue to carry the title far exceeds the tasks of a promoter. While they work hard to bring a crowd the Publicist is working hard from the conception of the event idea: Preparing press releases, gathering media and committing to being the voice to the public from the people.

Ice Cube and Mike Epps painted a hilarious but accurate picture of the industry and how things can go wrong when one chooses a “janky” promoter.  Although this was a comedic flick the fact remains that selecting the right individuals to assist you with creating a great event can be the caveat of a success or a failure.

As a Publicist and media professional I know firsthand the countless hours spent on creating articles and writing professional documents that are key components when providing quality service for top clientele. While celebrities and corporations have always understood the value of having Public Relations newcomers specifically the African-American consumers are now quickly grasping the concept.

Promoters have now resorted to adding PR to their resume using past events as experience. Having never written a dissertation or a media-catchy press release they resort to outsourcing internet junkies overseas for pennies on the dollar. And so the battle begins…

Colonel Loud Makes Noise as He Takes the Lead in Giving Raleigh, NC Style

Most popularly known for his hit single “California” hip-hop artist Colonel Loud has taken the lead in giving this holiday season. Soon after finishing a charity basketball game and a school visitation for Diabetes Awareness in Dallas, TX he arrived back in his hometown of Raleigh, NC and kept the spark going. Sponsoring a toy drive with K97.5’s Brian Dawson and Toys for Tots, the Colonel purchased toys for the less fortunate and handed them out to listeners selected by the radio station.

To keep the momentum going, Colonel Loud continued the giving spree throughout the month of December.  Taking his act on the several toy drives with local stations were scheduled for Monday December 19th in Columbia, SC followed by a concert and Wednesday December 21st with CHOICE 92.1.

The most awe-inspiring gift of the season was the artist’s decision to give away free features. On Tuesday December 20th from 12-8 PM independent artists had the opportunity to schedule a session at Audio Box studios and not only meet the rising star but record a track.

Ending 2016 on a positive note and trending as one of the top newcomers Colonel Loud is creating the standard for artists in 2017 and beyond. His recent decision to partner with the ELO Group LLC who is leading the race in branding artists by creating and managing charitable events inclusive of the hip-hop community proves to be a step in the right direction. Colonel Loud is definitely the artist to keep your eyes on for the upcoming year. Releasing his new mixtape “Plug Talk 2” in early December his music sets him apart as an artist that is creating music not only for the moment but for the future.

For more information on Colonel Loud follow him on social media

FB: @colonelloudmusic

IG & Twitter: @colonelloud

Hip-Hop Meets Charity: Dallas Texas Leads the Holiday Season in Giving Back

Rappers touched down in Dallas, TX the first weekend in December gearing up for a weekend filled with events. Leading the pack was Hip-Hop legend Lil Boosie along with friends Webbie, Young Dolph and Colonel Loud. The 2nd Annual Ballin’ Against Diabetes Celebrity Basketball game was the first and most important event that led the weekend and its cause raised money for juvenile diabetes. Lil Boosie who has been contending with this disease daily since childhood recently took the iniative to bring awareness through his relationship that has been formed with the ELO Group LLC which is a nonprofit management firm that specializes in community branding for athletes, celebrities and small businesses founded by Teirney Johnson .

The 2nd Annual Ballin’ Against Diabetes Celebrity Game took place on Sunday December 4th at P C Cobb Stadium in Dallas, TX with a roster full of celebrity friends. NBA First Round Draft pick Isaiah Austin who was recently cleared by the NBA after being diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome, Rappers Webbie ,Young Dolph, Dorrough and Mr. California himself Colonel Loud. Former NFL players Michael Booker and Charles Hatley also joined the roster.  

A Press Conference for the players led by Nicole Paradigm Media started the event as the jovial spirit that was the foundation of the event was evident through every interview. Lil Boosie expressed his love for the game, his passion for the cause and his gratitude for the ELO Group in creating this event for a second year in a row.

Next up was Boosie Bash, a concert in celebration for the rappers birthday that ironically happens to fall on World Diabetes Day- November 14th. Still in celebration mode Lil boosie, Webbie and Young Dolph ripped the stage in a sold out show powered by Piscapo and LegnA Entertainment at the Gas Monkey Live just North of Downtown Dallas.

With a line-up of after parties the rappers saved the best for last on Monday morning. In less than 24 hours the ELO Group LLC arranged to have Lil Boosie, Young Dolph and Colonel Loud surprise the students at Billy Earl Dade Middle School in Southern Dallas along with 97.9 the beat’s personality Veda Loca. Giving away diabetic supplies that were donated by Endocrinology Associates of Southwest Dallas, they were able to help students that also have diabetes and encourage them to live with confidence.

What is next for the ELO Group LLC? More Funtastic events for charity and awareness in collaboration with the hip-hop community. Colonel Loud who recently joined the ELO Group LLC caught the wave upon his arrival home in Raleigh, North Carolina and ignited the city with a toy drive. Many events have been planned for 2017 and the ELO group LLC has become the organization to watch carefully as they set the tone for the new age of charity and giving.

Dear Bosses: Let’s Discuss LEADERSHIP

It was my 11th grade year at Warren Travis White high school in Dallas, TX. I had previously been initiated (similar to a sorority) into the only African-American spirit group-L.S.C. which stood for Longhorn Spirit Corporation and now I was running for president. As I successfully was named the new leader going into my senior year I had the pleasure of sharing my office with my best friend who was voted as Vice President.

During our senior year we were able to make history by bringing a classy African-American presence to the pep-rally’s that had been previously run by majority Caucasian organizations. Our sponsor was a member of the Delta Sigma Theta organization and she made sure that I led the group with the highest standards. Little did I know that this experience in leadership would be the catalyst to the journey of my future.

The word “boss” has been thrown around so loosely by individuals, mainly African-American women that love the attention and the notoriety but fail to prepare for the shift in their character that is most important in being a leader. Boss is a word that gives a title, leadership is a lifestyle.

Dominated by the male population to date women in leadership have taken a strong lead in the past 5 years. Noted as the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in America by Fortune magazine in June of 2015, African-American women are pacing as number one contenders.

With these positive statistics we have a mandate to provide a spirit of excellence. This is an area that most do not focus on. The “Mad black woman” that has been thrusted into this new lifestyle has residue that is leaving a strong impression amongst others and we need a resolution.

Being labeled a boss is good but haling as leader is great! Lifting out standards to present ourselves absent of the stereotypical bitchy ways will keep us leading for many decades to come.

As a part of this population I pride myself in caring for those that I lead and working overtime to handle my competitors as well as clients in a way that my impression will be one that leaves a pleasant aroma. The “bosses” that over post on Instagram with meme’s overstating their statuses only add to the facts that we are missing the characterization that solidify us as leaders.

So share this story with a “boss” and let’s work together to become better leaders.

Shots Fired: RichLife Dynasty vs the World

Hours upon hours collaborating in the studio, designing graphics, and discussing vision along with extreme dedication have been thrusted into the upcoming release of the mixtape Rich Gold crafted by conglomerate RichLife Dynasty. Moguls Manny Minnesota and Dontay Jackson have built a team of heavy hitters that are passionate about their abilities. This talented team has created music to solidify their presence in the music industry.

With the breakout single “I’m Gold” currently available on iTunes, Tidal and other digital music distributors, silent beef between artists has already started to brew. One verse has implied that RichLife Dynasty artist Celebrity has thrown the first blow at Houston rapper Killa Kyleon , formerly of Hip-Hop icon Slim Thug’s record label Boss Hogg Outlaws. “I’m the Killa off in this picture/and I don’t care if Kyleon was on it” sends a strong statement from Dallas down I-45 South. The compilation, which also features label mates 50/50, Twin and the youngest artist of the Dynasty family Limit will be followed by his single “Pick Up” and drops November 1st.

The entire mixtape will be available for purchase everywhere music is sold on Thanksgiving Day. If you can’t wait for the highly anticipated release, sneak peeks are available now at www.richlifedynasty.com. The mixtape is receiving international acclaim, and the first single has been featured on the “gorilla” of free hip-hop mixtapes Spinrilla. Easily trekking its way to Mixtape of the year, Rich Gold has all the ingredients of game-changing attributes from production to artwork. The artists on the roster are just a raw example of the label and what it stands for: No ceilings, no barriers to genres-just GOOD MUSIC.

When the Bough Breaks: Not Just Another Predictable Flick

If you are a part of Generation X then you should be familiar with the suspenseful drama from the 90’s “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle” where an in home babysitter turned madwoman overstepped her boundaries. The blonde bitter beauty came into the home and turned it upside down. This was the first movie of its kind and has been the staple for psycho-thrillers involving beauties and babies.

Then Jack Olsen’s screenplay When the Bough Breaks a Screen Gems release through Sony Pictures Entertainment started creating a huge buzz with a starring cast: Morris Chestnut who is also Executive Producer, the talented Regina Hall and a newbie that sets the stage for a psychotic turn of events Jaz Sinclair.

Movie-goers should not take the trailer and commercials lightly and site this as another repeat of its predecessors. This movie is filled with surprises and writers left all of the thrills to the anticipation of the movie buffs.

When asked about his Executive Production of the movie at the Media Press Junket, Morris Chestnut stated that he enjoys the production side but will not be leaving ladies without the eye candy that they look forward too.

The highly anticipated film introduces new comer to the screen Dallas, TX native Jaz Sinclair whose character Anna goes from perfect surrogate to psychotic as her pregnancy progresses. Her fixation with character John Taylor played by Morris Chestnut only intensifies when she witnesses the life that Laura Taylor played by Regina Hall enjoys as a young professional and doting wife. Anna possesses the one thing that the couple needs and wants: their child.

Having not viewed the complete movie but being privy to production notes I will say that audiences will be pleasantly surprised and I look forward to viewing this thriller in its entirety.

Make sure to mark your calendars for the Premiere of When the Bough Breaks September 9th in theaters everywhere.

...

The Mask of Depression: Why Black Women Suffer in Silence

My grandmother’s signature statement was “Get some grit in your craw!” In translation that means “Don’t be a punk!” That also means no crying, keep a stiff upper lip and NEVER give up or give in. Those were the words that turned a timid little girl that was bullied and molested in silence to a pit bull. I learned how to sip on some NyQuil to command sleep at age 12, cry when no one was looking and perfect a resting bitch face that would become my defense against the haters.

As a teen mom I patterned myself after the great women that had raised an intelligent young girl that was now a woman. I never saw my mother cry. She was poised, classy and had no qualms about telling someone in the most articulate way where to go and how to get there if they even thought about crossing her. Of course “Nanny” had laid the foundation for all of the women in my family. I imparted the same knowledge in my first born daughter and when she cried I told her “We don’t cry! We aren’t crybabies! Suck it up” and she obliged. By the time she was 10 years old and I was pregnant with my 2nd daughter I noticed how withdrawn she was. Now at the ripe age of 18 I have created a smart, beautiful young woman that is nearly emotionless. Where is the happy medium?

And then there is me: Age 37, black female battling depression. The word that escapes the vocabulary of black women across the nation. How dare I succumb to a condition that is an oxymoron to the generations that went before me, the clergy that has imparted the Gospel in me, and the people that are closest to me that never detect it, until the strongest has become weak and unresponsive.

Embarrassment of dependence on anything else besides inner strength has women suffering. The masks that we have designed so well keep those in close proximity believing a well-kept secret: I’m fine!  When everything inside is yelling “I’m dying. Please save me!”

How do we loose these ties that bind us? We have to refuse to continue the cycles of teaching our young ladies that being emotional is for the weak and taking a break is for the lazy. As we focus on hit T V shows that alter our physical bodies and new trends of products that tackle health issues I challenge every woman to also take a serious look at your mental health.

Of course as a woman of God I felt as though my prayers should suffice. As we pray we must also listen to directions that are given as answers. Unraveling issues that have been suppressed is not only therapeutic but it’s NECESSARY.

Maybe in a future publication I will tackle the unanswered questions of the people that are closest to you that not only have no idea what you are going through but that can so easily be tricked by a mask….

Canadian Rapper Tory Lanez Blazes the Stage at Spring Fest 2016

As Dallas, TX dropped its temperature twenty degrees Spring Fest 2016 hosted by 97.9 the Beat in partnership with LegnA Media and Rich Life Dynasty heated up Gas Monkey Live with a starting line-up and finished with a Boy Wonder that left the crowd with excitement.

The anticipation of the first concert of the spring was built on heavy promotions from the partners who have been instrumental in bringing acts such as Young Jeezy and Ludacris to town and delivering shows that have gained them popularity amongst heavy hitters in the music industry. Their opening acts were well received and are now sparking recognition and increasing their following.  Make sure you take notice: AP Wade, Keith Jacobs, Anonymous Culture, Pbze T. O., Celebrity, and Shy Speaks all notably solidified as Dallas’ premiere talent.

97.9 The Beat did not disappoint with its leading act-Canadian rapper Tory Lanez. Most popularly known for his hit song “Say It” he performed at full capacity belting out song after song only taking a moment to throw a little “friendly fire” regarding his comparison to singer Bryson Tiller. His high energy, distinct lyrics and fearlessness captivated the audience-so much so that they welcomed him with open arms as he threw himself into their arms to be carried in the air-Rock Star style!

Like most attendees I woke up chanting “Diego, Diego” which was Tory’s last song of the night. In the song’s lyrics he refers to himself as the new Tony Montana and from the confidence he exudes he may just be the new sensation to hold the Canadian rap title.

Captivating the Dallas Music Scene: PBZE T.O. Why You Should Be the First to Pronounce His Name

Quality music often slips under the radar of top music executives. With the influx of individuals that are seeking stardom when good music surfaces it tends to get lost in the shuffle. Then a miracle occurs and you meet an artist that is so dynamic that you are commanded to listen.

Defying all of the modern day rules of mediocrity and music without meaning Pbze T.O. (pronounced Pee-beez-e T.O.) has built a solid foundation of wordplay and melodies while keeping a calm demeanor. His musical style is unmatched and though geographically he resides in Dallas, TX his native roots from Magnolia, AR drive his gentleman like swag.

His new EP “Up There” that highlights his soulful voice followed up by his lyrical skills is just another example of consistency. Being supported by ‘Go Hard Music’ that has been instrumental in delivering flagship artists, winning Grammys and developing long standing relationships in Dallas and abroad, the music and the artistry speaks for itself.

Previously pursued by Legendary Rap Artist The D.O.C. and producers Play and Skillz, Pbze T.O. was co-signed by Slim of the R&B group 112 and is currently working with Producer Slikk who has produced for Ariana Grande.

Now you can escape the frenzy of being bombarded by starving artists at a gas station and take an exclusive look into Pbze T.O. while taking the opportunity to access his music before he reaches heights in which he will be untouchable. Artists of this magnitude never stand still, ask Jay Z, Kanye or Drake.

I named the greats as an example only to solidify that Pbze T.O. is in transition and is becoming an artist that will land his name among the greats. Just make sure that you learn how to pronounce his name correctly….

For more information on Pbze T.O:

https://www.facebook.com/PBZETO

Instagram: @pbzeto

https://twitter.com/pbzeto

https://soundcloud.com/pbzeto

ANOTHER FALLEN STAR: Fast Cars, Bible Study and the Chic that Almost Fell Prey to Joseph Randle

The Dallas Cowboys are no stranger to making headlines especially those that land them in trouble with the law. Joseph Randle is no exception to this trend. As you may recall he was arrested for stealing underwear and cologne in 2014. He was dropped from The Dallas Cowboys roster in November and most recently has made headlines for his arrest on Sunday morning where he was booked on drug possession, battery and criminal damage in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas.

Ironically a good girlfriend of mine met him in Valley Ranch a few months earlier at a stoplight. He asked her out on a date and she accepted. The same evening they had dinner and he asked her to attend bible study with him afterward. Seeming harmless and unaware of his background she accepted.

The Dodge Challenger he was driving peeled off heading South on George Bush Turnpike towards Arlington with the young lady on the passenger side. As they approached traffic Joseph seemed to be annoyed and decided to drive on the guardrail reaching speeds of 90 miles per hour. Puzzled and alarmed she kept her cool and sent me a text just in case things went sour and she needed an escape.

They arrived at the ILC (International Life Centre) Church for bible study. A warm inviting congregation located in Arlington, TX. This is the church that Joseph Randle called his home while he was living in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and a part of the Dallas Cowboys football team. During service he went up to the front and participated in service by playing the drums. All seemed well with Mr. Randle according to my friend outside of the impatient arrival.

After bible study concluded he attempted to get the young lady to go back to his place for drinks. She declined and thought it odd to leave bible study and have drinks after such a wonderful message that they had received. When she decided to google Randle she became aware of his past and decided not to continue contact with him.

His unfortunate demise as a football player is an all too familiar story amongst young black males coincidentally even more common for players that have been a part of the Dallas Cowboys roster. His recent run in with the law claims that he ran over 3 people in a disturbance in his hometown when he was asked to leave a housewarming party.

Best Wishes to Joseph Randle. At the ripe age of 24 years old his football career seems to be a thing of the past but he still has time to get his life back on track. Hopefully this will be his wake up call.